The two-character story spans 35 years, from 1890 to 1925, as it focuses on the trials and tribulations, laughters and sorrows, and hopes and disappointments experienced by Agnes and Michael throughout their marriage.

[3] The run closed in anticipation of a transfer to New York, but negotiations fell through because the American producer insisted that if it were a success the stars must agree to stay in the piece for eighteen months, which their contractual filming obligations in Britain made impossible.

[4] A Broadway production, directed by José Ferrer, opened on 24 October 1951, at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, later moving to the John Golden to complete its 632-performance run.

Original cast Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy later were replaced first by Burgess Meredith and Betty Field, and then Romney Brent and Sylvia Sidney.

[7] The play was adapted for Australian TV by the ABC in 1964, directed by James Upshaw, and featuring Alasdair Duncan and Anne Haddy.