The worried housewife took the telephone when it rang and heard,

“How are you, darling? What kind of a day are you having?” asked someone.

“Oh, mother,” said the housewife, breaking into tears, “I’ve had such a bad day. The baby won’t eat and the washing machine broke down. I haven’t had a chance to go shopping, and besides, I’ve just hurt my knee and can’t walk. The house is a mess and I’m supposed to have two couples over for dinner tonight.”

The mother was shocked, “Oh, darling,” she said, “sit down, relax, and close your eyes. I’ll be over in half an hour. I’ll do your shopping, clean up the house, and cook your dinner for you. I’ll feed the baby and I’ll call a repairman I know who’ll be at your house to fix the washing machine promptly. Now stop crying. I’ll do everything. In fact, I’ll even call Jim at the office and tell him he ought to come home and help out for once.”

“Jim?” said the housewife. “Who’s Jim?”

“Why, Jim! Your husband! Isn’t this 343-23-74?”

“No, this is 343-13-74.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I guess I have the wrong number.”

There was a short pause and the housewife said, “Does this mean you’re not coming over?”