The Bequest Ship's Company, Part 6.

"The Bequest" by W. W. Jacobs is a humorous story that shows how love, societal norms, and friendships can make relationships complicated. Robert Clarkson has always liked Mrs. Phipps, a widow, and when her husband dies, he thinks about finally trying to be with her. But, because of what society expects and what his dead friend wanted, Robert feels unsure, especially after rumours circulated about the money that the widow inherited. Even though he never wanted to get married, jealousy and his friends push him to ask Mrs. Phipps to marry him. This tale uses humor to point out how much other people's opinions can affect what we do, and it follows Robert as he makes a decision that might not be what he really wants.