She wondered if, when human souls try to get too near each other, they do not inevitably become mere blurs to each other's vision.' Susy Branch learned early that to thrive without money in a society driven by wealth one must dissemble, flatter and sometimes even drop one's moral guard in order to share a little of one's host's luxury and leisure. Nick Lansing has also learned and wearied of the same lesson. Despite the foolishness of their romance - for each should be seeking a partner of means - they decide to marry. By combining their skills they should be able to enjoy a year's invitations and happiness before they need face reality. But love makes its own exacting demands and its costs can also be high ...