Paraphrasing this passage pretty soon it was plain that something had got to be done . I suggested cigars, Thompson thought it would be a great idea. (1) The smell was so bad Thompson thought it would be a good idea to move the box. (2) It was clear something had to be done to mask the smell, so I suggested cigar smoke, he agreed. (3) It was clear we both needed a break to smoke a cigar.

Soon it became evident that action needed to be taken. I proposed cigars as a solution, and Thompson was enthusiastic about the idea. (1) The strong odor prompted Thompson to suggest relocating the box. (2) It was apparent that a remedy was necessary to cover up the smell, so I recommended smoking cigars, which he approved. (3) We both recognized the need for a break to enjoy a cigar.