A Nelson family meeting forces a quick marriage: relatives praise Rose as the perfect match for a young man and schedule a grand ceremony in three days. Guests hurry the fiancé away to wash while the family congratulates themselves. Later, Mr. Jenkins returns to Rose's lodging for a private moment; she tells him she likes him but is not worthy. She confesses she doesn't have much time left and begs him not to marry someone who is about to die. Her revelation cancels the certainty of the wedding and leaves Jenkins stunned, facing a raw choice.