Taken for Granted
The presence of an ever-flowing supply of fresh, clean water is taken
for granted. Unfortunately such congenial condition is fast disappearing.
As population increases, as industry consumes more water each year, the
level of our underground water supply sink measurably. There is no way 
to hoard water, there are many ways to conserve it. During a particular
dry spell, New York city found its reservoirs going dry. Until then did
the residents began to heed the sage advice to limit the wasteful uses of 
water. Under the aegis of the Water Commissioner, citizens were encouraged
to develop habits which would save water. The continued imprudent waster
by each of us of this most basic resource will work to detriment of all. 


in the doldrums--Mary has been in the doldrums since her best friend moved
away.
(in a bored or depressed state.)