If Mr. Selwyn calls again, show him up; if I am alive I shall be delighted to see him; and if I am dead he would like to see me.
This quote captures a witty and somewhat playful attitude towards encounters and the inevitability of mortality. It demonstrates a confidence in the enduring importance of personal relationships, regardless of life's transient nature. The speaker’s willingness to greet Mr. Selwyn differently based on whether they are alive or deceased shows a sense of humor and a recognition of the inevitable boundary that death imposes. Such an outlook suggests a perspective that values maintaining good relations and perhaps a touch of mischief—implying that even in death, the speaker’s presence might be desired, which can be read as a commentary on the lasting impact of personal bonds or perhaps a facet of social satire. Furthermore, there's an underlying acceptance of mortality, coupled with a light-hearted view of the social customs surrounding life and death. The tone hints at a certain nobility or irony, emphasizing the enduring relevance of interpersonal connections. The quote also subtly invites reflection on how we perceive our relationships and hospitality in life and after death. It suggests that whether alive or dead, the importance of social grace and openness remains constant. This perspective can be both humorous and profound, making it a memorable reflection on human nature, the social veil, and the acceptance of life’s inevitable finiteness with grace and humor.
