“That’s what I’m afraid of,” he laughed joyfully. “So I have to insist on an early marriage.” “Insist?” she demurred. “I’ve been told on the best of authority that I’m very obstinate,” he gayly answered. “I have a mind of my own myself. If I ever marry you be sure I shall name the day, sir.” “Will y’u marry me the day Nora does Jim?” “We’ll see.” The eyes slanted at him under the curved lashes, teased him delightfully. “Did Nora tell you she was going to marry Jim?” Bannister looked mildly hurt. “My common sense has been telling it to me a month.” “How long has your common sense been telling you about us?” “I didn’t use it when I fell in love with y’u,” he boldly laughed. “Of all things to say!” “Because it would have told me y’u couldn’t possibly care for me.” “Oh, that’s different!” “Not being able to help myself, I just went ahead.” “Isn’t it good? Isn’t it too good to be true—Ned?” Tears brimmed in her happy eyes, and unconsciously she leaned toward him. In an instant she was in his arms again, both of them compelled by the imperative impulse of true lovers. Out of the hollow presently appeared Nora and McWilliams, very much oblivious of the outside world. Presently they condescended to recognize the existence of Bannister and Helen. “We’re allowin’ to be married in September,” said Mac sheepishly, by way of explanation. The two girls flew into each other’s arms. Over Nora’s shoulder Ned caught his sweetheart’s eye and read there a blushing consent to a public announcement. “That’s ce’tainly a strange coincidence, Jim. So are we,” he answered immediately. The two friends shook hands. THE END.