I know this is SEVERELY not funny, but I can't help giggling, because my friend has a huge crush on Anthony and is always talking about how Johanna was just using him or w/e and is really a backstabbing shrew. (My friend is sane, btw. In her way.) Therefore I am just anticipating her reaction when i show her this.

ANYWAY- I can totally picture that happening. The Barker line most definitely does not deal well when things go wrong. I particuarly thought it interesting that poisoning one's self appears to be a family trait ("he means to marry me Monday I'll swallow some lye"). I really liked the way Johanna's twisted thought process in this.

Runs in the family, hm? I can't help but sympathize with them, though - Anthony, Johanna, and the officer. I think this one's my favorite so far (but I have several more to read, so that may change...).