[freejack]

Be a professional. Both parties will expect notice and you can't give it to them. My approach would be to talk to my boss at the contracting company, explain that personal issues were in play and that I wouldn't be able to give notice and that I'd like to part on professional terms, so if there was anything I could do to ease the transition, I'd be open to discuss it. The offer is generally more important than anything and in many cases, it is appreciated but not taken advantage of. They still won't like it (because they'll have to do extra work to fill the gap) but they should appreciate your professionalism and you can walk out the door with your head held high.

[dandruffhead]

This. Don't burn the bridge when you leave your job.

[opless]

And certainly this too.