What Then?

Two men were once engaged in conversation—an old man and a young one.

Said the old man to his young friend, "What do you intend to do with yourself in life?"

"Well," was the reply, "you know I have not yet finished my college studies. I shall not leave college until I am twenty-three or so."

"And what then?" asked his aged friend.

"Why, then I shall go in for some profession, and try and make a name for myself; make my fortune, if possible."

"And what then?"

"Then I think I should like to go in for politics and enter Parliament."

"What then?"

"Oh, then, I suppose I shall marry and settle down in life."

"What then ?"

"Then I hope I shall be able to retire and lead a quiet life."

"What then?" There was a pause.

"Die, I suppose."

"And what then?"