Montgomery and his wife
walked to the rear of the store, and advanced to the counter,
behind which stood a clerk unengaged.
"What shall I show you?" he inquired
"I didn't come to purchase," said Mr. Montgomery, with suavity,
"but to sell. I suppose you purchase jewelry at times?"
"Sometimes," said the clerk. "Let me see what you have."
"First," said the adventurer, "let me introduce myself. I am the
Rev. Mr. Barnes, of Hayfield Centre, Connecticut. You perhaps
know the place?"
"I don't think I remember it," said the clerk, respectfully.
"It is a small place," said Mr. Montgomery, modestly, "but my
tastes are plain and unobtrusive, and I do not aspire to a more
conspicuous post. However, that is not to the purpose. A lady
parishioner, desiring to donate a portion of her wealth to the
poor, has placed in my hand a diamond ring, the proceeds to be
devoted to charitable objects. I desire to sell it, and, knowing
the high reputation of your firm feel safe in offering it to you.
I know very little of the value of such things, since they are
not in my line, but I am sure of fair treatment at your hands."
"You may depend upon that," said the clerk, favorably impressed
with the appearance and manners of his customer.
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