her with tragic intensity] Ruth!     

       RUTH. You're not afraid of going, are you?     

       FALDER. Have you got your things, and the children's?     

       RUTH. Had to leave them, for fear of waking Honeywill, all but one bag. I can't go near home again.     

       FALDER. [Wincing] All that money gone for nothing. How much must you have?     

       RUTH. Six pounds—I could do with that, I think.     

       FALDER. Don't give away where we're going. [As if to himself] When I get out there I mean to forget it all.     

       RUTH. If you're sorry, say so. I'd sooner he killed me than take you against your will.     

       FALDER. [With a queer smile] We've got to go. I don't care; I'll have you.     

       RUTH. You've just to say; it's not too late.     

       FALDER. It is too late. Here's seven pounds. Booking office 11.45 to-night. If you weren't what you are to me, Ruth——!     

       RUTH. Kiss me!     

CONTENTS

         They cling together passionately, there fly apart just as COKESON re-enters the room. RUTH turns and goes out through the outer office. COKESON advances deliberately to his chair and seats himself.       

       COKESON. This isn't right, Falder.     

       FALDER. It shan't occur again, sir.     

       COKESON. It's an improper use of these premises.     

       FALDER. Yes, sir.     

       COKESON. You quite understand-the party was in some distress; and, having children with her, I allowed my feelings——[He opens a drawer and produces from it a tract] Just take this! "Purity in the Home." It's a well-written thing.     

       FALDER. [Taking it, with a peculiar expression] Thank you, sir.     

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