|
From political rebellion Babbitt switches to romantic rebellion. Mrs. Tanis Judique calls, and Babbitt agrees to inspect her leaking roof. The strike has been crushed, and, on the surface, Babbitt\'s life is back to normal (though Vergil Gunch seems less friendly than before). But Babbitt feels lonely. After lingering in the office to convince himself he\'s only interested in business, he drives to Mrs. Judique\'s apartment, happy to be seeing the lovely woman again.
As Babbitt and Mrs. Judique climb to check the leaking roof, they flirt with each other, flattering each other\'s love of beautiful views. Babbitt stays for a cup of tea. He enjoys the feeling of security Tanis gives him, and feels so at ease that he complains of things he never mentions to his wife.
Babbitt goes into Tanis\'s bedroom for an ashtray. When he returns, he finds his contentment with her simple companionship has been replaced by a strong desire to touch her. He insists he be allowed to stay for dinner, and he calls Mrs. Babbitt, lying about a business deal that will keep him late. He and Tanis sit on the couch, talking of their happiness at finding each other, and Babbitt doesn\'t return home until dawn.
|
