It was Linda's idea to buy the house by the sea. It was going to a place we cou go to together at weekends She loved the place. I understand why now," he said, then laughed in a sad way. Linda said London was dirty and noisy and the flat was boring. You know Linda, John. If she didn't like something she always said it was boring. He stopped for a moment and then in a voice full of anger he said: "I wish I'd never seen that house. Never mind, John. You don't want to hear all this I felt uncomfortable. was not the Carl I used know. I looked at my watch. It was nearly two o'clock. I had to go back to work, but I also wanted to know what had happened to my old friend, what had changed him so much. "I'm sorry, Carl, Id really like to hear your story, but I have to get back to work. somewhere another We decided to meet in a pub we both knew the next evening. It was close quieter place than the Jolly Sailor I thought it woul easier for Carl to tell his story. was a bit late leaving work the next and when to the pub Carl was already there. He was sitting with his back to the door in a quiet corner. I walked over to him and he stood up quickly. He looked worried I'm pleased you're here," he said. "I thought perhaps werent coming. "Of course I came," I "Sit down and I'll get the said. beers. When I returned with two beers, Carl said: "Thanks for coming. I've been thinking, and I really feel