I am sorry--but--well, the fact is I must leave for the north to-morrow morning and hardly shall be able to return before the next night.

I am really distressed.

I wanted so much to take you to-morrow night--" "And I can't wear the ruby ?" Her voice was shrill.

Ruyler wondered if his stimulated imagination fancied a note of terror in it.
"I--I--am afraid not--darling--" "But that Spaulding man will be there to watch--" "Unfortunately--I forgot to tell you--he cannot go--he is on an important case.

Besides--when I make a promise I usually keep it." "But--but--" She stammered as if her brain were confused, then turned and pressed her face to the window.