Instead of insinuating that I am accepting Roger as a _pis-aller_, it would be more seemly if you would congratulate me and--wish me luck." "I do--oh, I do, Nan.

But, my dear--" "No buts, please.

Surely I know my own business best?
I assure you, Roger and I will be a model couple--an example, probably, to you and Ralph! You'll--you'll say 'yes' to him to-morrow when he comes back again, won't you, Penny ?" "He isn't coming back to-morrow." "I think he is." Nan smiled.

"You'll say 'yes' then ?" Penelope looked at her very straightly.
"Would you marry Roger in any case--whether I accepted Ralph or not ?" she asked.
Nan lied courageously.
"I should marry Roger in any case," she answered quietly.
A long silence ensued.

Presently Nan broke it, her voice a little sharpened by the tension of the moment.
"So when Ralph comes back you'll be--kind to him, Penny?
You'll give him the answer he wants ?" Penelope's face was hidden by a curtain of dark hair.