Why was Mrs. Smedley surprised by the check she received after her husband's death?

Mrs. Smedley's surprise regarding the check can be attributed to the inclusion of payment for sick days, which implies that she did not anticipate receiving this additional compensation after her husband's passing. It suggests that the payment may have been a benefit that she was not fully aware of, or that the amount of sick days compensated was unexpected. This context highlights the often overlooked details in the aftermath of a loved one's death, where individuals may not be fully informed about all the benefits or compensations entitled to them. This revelation can create a sense of surprise or even relief, as financial assistance during such a challenging time is often appreciated.