He seemed very down on his luck, poor dear! He's been trying to persuade Penelope to say yes and to fix an early date for their wedding, as he's got the offer of a very good short tour in America--really thumping fees--and he won't accept it unless she'll marry him first and go with him." "Well, I don't see how that's my fault." "In a way it is.

The only reason Penelope gave him as to why she wouldn't consent was that she will never marry as long as you need her." Nan digested this information in silence.

Then she said quietly: "If that's all, you can take off your sackcloth and ashes and phone Ralph at his hotel to come back here to-morrow.

I'll--I'll talk to Penelope to-night." Kitty stared at her in surprise.
"You seem very sure of the effect of your persuasions," she answered dubiously.
"I am.

Quite sure.