The short story The Escape by William Somerset Maugham is written in humorist style. If the author wanted to display the plot directly, the story would be named The Escape From Marriage For a Man.
In fact, the method for canceling marriage proposal which Maugham suggested is more universal. He made a routine process of putting off the wedding. The story is short and funny.
I've just read 'Escape'. I'm sorry that I have to give it he lowest rate (2 stars) on my GR so far. Basically I haven't figured out why I have to study this story.