Larry could hardly wait till she had given her car into the chauffeur's charge. They found Dr. Brown and the Colonel in the study smoking. “Dr. Brown,” said Larry, in a quick, almost peremptory voice, “may I see you for a moment or two in your office?” “Why, what's up? Not feeling well?” said Dr. Brown, while the others looked anxiously at him. “Oh, I am fit enough,” said Larry impatiently, “but I must see you.” “I am sure there is something wrong,” said Jane, “he has been acting so queer this evening. He is so abrupt. Is that the military manner?” “Perhaps so,” said the Colonel. “Nice chap, Larry--hard worker--good soldier--awfully keen in his work--making good too--best officer I've got. Tell you a secret, Jane--expect promotion for him any time now.” Meantime Larry was facing Dr. Brown in his office. “Doctor,” he said, “I want to marry Jane.” “Good heavens, when did this strike you?” “This evening. I want to marry her right away.” “Right away? When?” “Right away, before I go. To-night, to-morrow.” “Are you mad? You cannot do things like that, you know. Marry Jane! Do you know what you are asking?” “Yes, Doctor, I know. But I have just seen Helen Brookes. She is perfectly amazing, perfectly fine in her courage and all that, and she told me about Scuddy's death without a tear. But, Doctor, there was a point at which she broke all up. Do you know when? When she told me of her chief regret, and that was that she and Scuddy had not been married. They both wanted to be married, but her parents were unwilling. Now she regrets it and she will always regret it. Doctor, I see it very clearly. I believe it is better that we should be married. Who knows what will come? So many of the chaps do not come back. You are going out too, I am going out. Doctor, I feel that it is best that we should be married.” “And what does Jane think about it?” enquired the Doctor, gazing at Larry in a bewildered manner. “Jane! Good Lord! I don't know. I never asked her!” Larry stood gaping at the Doctor. “Well, upon my word, you are a cool one!” “I never thought of it, Doctor,” said Larry. “Never thought of it? Are you playing with me, boy?” said the Doctor sternly. “I will go and see her,” said Larry, and he dashed from the room. But as he entered the study, dinner was announced, and Larry's question perforce must wait.