"Indeed," said Lothaw, carelessly, "I should prefer to see some
expensive ones.
"Some number sixes, I suppose," said Mr. Amethyst, taking a couple
from the apex of a small pyramid that lay piled on the shelf.
"These are about the size of the Duchess of Billingsgate's, but
they are in finer condition. The fact is, her Grace permits her
two children, the Marquis of Smithfield and the Duke of St. Giles,--
two sweet pretty boys, my Lord,--to use them as marbles in their
games. Pearls require some attention, and I go down there
regularly twice a week to clean them. Perhaps your Lordship would
like some ropes of pearls?"
"About half a cable's length," said Lothaw, shortly, "and send them
to my lodgings."
Mr. Amethyst became thoughtful. "I am afraid I have not the exact
number--that is--excuse me one moment. I will run over to the
Tower and borrow a few from the crown jewels." And before Lothaw
could prevent him, he seized his hat and left Lothaw alone.
His position certainly was embarrassing. He could not move without
stepping on costly gems which had rolled from the counter; the
rarest diamonds lay scattered on the shelves; untold fortunes in
priceless emeralds lay within his grasp.
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