“M. de Souza.”
The queen did not reply for a few minutes, and then said, “Well, so much the better for the Queen of Portugal. Let us speak of it no more.”
“But allow us one moment, madame,” said Bœhmer.
“Have you ever seen those diamonds?” said the queen to Jeanne.
“No, madame.”
“They are beautiful. It is a pity these gentlemen have not brought them.”
“Here they are,” said Bœhmer, opening the case.
“Come, countess, you are a woman, and these will please you.”
Jeanne uttered a cry of admiration when she saw them, and said, “They are indeed beautiful.”
“1,500,000 francs, which you hold in the palm of your hand,” said the queen.