I'm sorry; I had meant to offer you my condolences on the loss of your wife, I said, rather formally. He looked surprised for a moment, then bowed his head in acknowledgment, matching my formality. It is a coincidence that you should say so at the moment, he said. I had just been thinking of her.
In the dialogue from "Drums of Autumn" by Diana Gabaldon, a character expresses sympathy for the loss of another man's wife. The speaker's formal tone indicates a sincere attempt to offer condolences, prompting a surprising response from the man, who acknowledges the gesture with a bow of his head.
The conversation takes a poignant turn as the man reveals that he had been contemplating his deceased wife just before the condolences were offered. This moment reflects the deep bond of memory and emotion tied to loss, highlighting how such interactions can be meaningful and timely.
