Dean read the following among the personals:
CECIL MONTGOMERY, Jr. Come home at once! Your mother is very sick.
"My poor old mother!" said the actor feelingly. "She may be dead by this time. Why couldn't I have seen this notice before?"
"What is the date of the paper?" asked Dean.
"It is five days old."
"I suppose you will go at once."
"Yes, I must. I never would forgive myself if I did not hurry home on the chance of seeing the dear old mother once more."
"You are right, Mr. Montgomery. I would do the same if I were fortunate enough to have a mother living."
"Of course that ends our partnership for the present. Will you go home with me, Dean?"
Dean shook his head.