"This is a handsome ring," he said, "and one of great value. How
much were you offered for it at Tiffany's?"
"Two hundred and fifty dollars."
"It is worth more."
"Yes, I suppose so," said Paul; "but he has to sell it, and make
a profit."
"He could do that, and yet make a profit. I will pay you two
hundred and seventy-five dollars, myself--that is, on one
condition."
"I don't object to getting twenty-five dollars more," said Paul.
"What is the condition?"
"I have an order from a gentleman for a diamond ring for a young
lady--an engagement ring, in short. If this suits him, as I
think it will, I will pay you what I said. I can easily get
three hundred and twenty-five from him."
"How are you going to find out whether it will suit him?"
"Easily. He is stopping at the same hotel with me."
"What hotel is that?"
"Lovejoy's. If you can spare the time and will come with me now,
we can arrange matters at once. By the way, you can refer me to
some responsible citizen, who will guarantee you. Not, of
course, that I have any doubts, but we business men are forced to
be cautious."
Paul mentioned Mr. Preston's name.
"Quite satisfactory," answered the jeweler.
Pages:
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144