"You are in the wrong," asserted Monck. "I want to get you out of it if
I can. What's the grievance? What have I done?"

Tommy hesitated for a moment, then finally reached up and gripped the
hand upon his shoulder. "Monck! I say, Monck!" he said boyishly. "I feel
such a cur to say it. But--but--" he broke off abruptly. "I'm damned if
I can say it!" he decided dejectedly.

Monck's fingers suddenly twisted and closed upon his. "What a funny
little ass you are, Tommy!" he said.

Tommy brightened a little. "It's infernally difficult--taking you to
task," he explained blushing a still fierier red. "You'll never speak to
me again after this."

Monck laughed. "Yes, I shall. I shall respect you for it. Get on with
it, man! What's the trouble?"

With immense effort Tommy made reply. "Well, it's pretty beastly to have
to ask any fellow what his intentions are with regard to his sister, but
you pretty nearly told me yours."

"Then what more do you want?" questioned Monck.

Tommy made a gesture of helplessness. "Damn it, man! Don't you know she
is making plans to go Home?"

"Well?" said Monck.