clear to consider wearing this," and he produced a small, blue
velvet case from an inner pocket. And next moment Billie was peeking
over Mona's shoulder, so to speak, to see a ring made of some
milk-white metal, set with a single oval stone of a blood-red hue.
The surgeon gave a tiny gasp at the sight of it.

"Bribery and corruption!" she cried, and started to slip the ring on
to the middle finger of her left hand. Before it was done, however,
she paused.

"I almost forgot." She gave Powart a sidelong glance. "Last night I
thought it over, and--Well, you know how women are about changing
their minds."

"Surely you haven't completely altered your opinion of me?"
incredulously, rather than anxiously.

"No; I just want more time to think it over, that's all. It is not
that I think less of you than before, but somehow, since having such
a close call--I haven't quite as much confidence in my ability to
meet your expectations." This as though she had worded it
beforehand.

Powart showed little concern. "Of course I am sorry; but perhaps it
is just as well. Beyond a doubt you will soon come to see it as
clearly as you did the other day." He paused as the girl slowly
extended the ring to him. "Why not wear it anyhow, Mona?"

"I'd rather not--not until I am sure. It's a dreadful temptation,
though!"