"Yes, of course, but I've just——"
"That makes twice this month, then, that you've broken the agreement. Now I can go on and put my mind on my work, if you'll let me. Otherwise, I shall have to get a job where they will let me."
"But, Betty, I've just this noon sat down and figured up where I stand. It has frightened me a little. I didn't realize I was taking in more than ten thousand a year. And all of a sudden it struck me that I've been an imbecile to wait, or make any agreement——"
"Then you broke it deliberately?"
"Absolutely. Betty—no fooling now; I'm in earnest——"
Studying him, she saw that he was intensely in earnest.
"You see, child, I've tried to be patient because I know how you were brought up, what you're used to. Why, I wouldn't dream of asking you to be my wife unless I could feel pretty sure of being able to give you the comforts you've always had and ought to have. But hang it, Betty, I can do it right! I can give you a home that's worthy of you. Any time! This year, even!"
"Penny, do you think I care what your income is—for one minute?"
"Why—why——"
"When I'm earning twenty dollars a week myself and prouder of it than—"