"I hope," said he in his direct fashion, "that you can see your way 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!" And Powart had no choice other than to reflect her smile with one of his own, while he quietly slipped the little case back into his pocket. Almost with the same motion he took out a watch. "You must excuse me. Business of state, as usual." "Certainly," as she rose. She gave a quick glance around, then shook her head playfully as Powart took a single eager step toward her. "Next time," she said; and he bit his lip, gripped her hand tightly, and strode away. In a minute he and his guards were back in the yacht, and in three minutes out of sight. By that time Fort and Mona's mother had returned. There was a quick exchange of glances between the two women, and then the mother excused herself and went in the house. Fort suddenly became awkwardly self-conscious. "Well, I must be going." He paused; a gleam of mischief flashed into his eyes--a kind of final come-back. "Next time I rescue you, young lady, I shall let you get hurt ever so much worse, so that I can have an excuse to call more than I have so far!" His face sobered swiftly. "I nearly forgot. May I congratulate you upon your--engagement? Mr. Powart is a very fine man." "Thank you; so he is. Really, I have lately come to wonder if I am good enough for him." Then, significantly: "The date has been postponed indefinitely. It is not impossible that I may give him up." Fort stared incredulously for a second, then saw that she meant it. The blood rushed to his face, leaving him white and shaky with excitement. He made a sudden move toward the girl, checking himself just as suddenly.