“Martha,” Henry began cautiously, “soon we will be married 50 years, and there’s something I have to ask you. Have you ever been unfaithful to me?”

Martha looked up, a little startled but resolute. “Well, Henry, I have to be honest with you… Yes, I’ve been unfaithful to you three times during these 50 years, but always for a good reason.”

Henry’s heart sank but his curiosity peaked. “I never suspected. Can you tell me what you mean by ‘good reasons’?”

Martha sighed, gathering her thoughts. “The first time was shortly after we were married. We were about to lose our little house because we couldn’t pay the mortgage. Do you remember that evening I went to see the banker and the next day he notified you that the loan would be extended?”

Henry’s face softened as he recalled the stressful time. “I remember visiting the banker. I can forgive you for that… You saved our home. What about the second time?”

Martha took a deep breath. “Do you recall when you were so sick and we didn’t have the money to pay for the heart surgery you needed? Well, I went to see your doctor one night, and if you remember, he did the surgery at no charge.”

Henry nodded slowly, a mix of gratitude and discomfort on his face. “I recall that. And you did it to save my life, so of course I can forgive you for that. Now tell me about the third time.”

“All right,” Martha began hesitantly. “Do you remember when you ran for president of your golf club and you needed 73 more votes…?”

Henry went pale and, in a dramatic twist, fainted right then and there.