"No," said Ruth Farraday. "Yes, I do know it, I think. But it's too late now."

"It's not too late."

"You don't seem to understand that I am going to be married—married next week."

"I heard you the first time," said Buddy, grimly.

"Well?"

"You are my girl," said Buddy, "and you know it."

"Supposing I do," said Ruth Farraday, "what then?"

"Then this marriage is a lie. It can't happen."

"It has—happened, as far as I am concerned. I have given my word."

"Ruth, you can't mean that."