On a Friday night in December, Don took his girlfriend to Armando's Jewelers and told her to pick out anything she wanted. He said, "This will be your Christmas present." She picked up a 24-karat gold ring with several small rubies and diamonds around it and said, "Oh, this is stunning. It's beautiful!" Armando said, "That ring is $27,000." Don told him, "No problem. I'll write you a check. On Monday, after the check clears, I'll come in and pick up the ring." Armando said that would be fine. On Monday afternoon, Armando phoned Don and complained, "Your check bounced!" Don replied, "I knew it would, but let me tell you about my great weekend!"