Ross still held the rejected tickets in his hand, which shook a little.
“Sold; but there must be some record. Is it not possible to find them?”
“I don’t suppose it could be done. Whoever got those two things had a bargain that they won’t be likely to give up. The shawl was real Injy; worth a thousand dollars, if it was worth a cent; and the coral was a lovely tint, like a tea-rose, and carved beautifully—not to be matched in this country. Bargains! Both great bargains!”
“I am willing to pay their full price—double that—”
“Ha! What is that? Double?”
“Yes; that is not more than I am willing to give.”
“Double-double! That would be two—say three thousand. Is that the correct sum—three thousand? A good thing! A good thing, if you get them!”
The craving wretch spoke gleefully, rubbed his palms together, and eyed Ross as if he longed to devour him.
Through all his anxiety, Ross felt the disgust such greed was sure to inspire, and answered him sharply.
“I will give two thousand for the shawl, and two hundred for the coral—not a cent more; but that can be settled with the possessor of the articles, who will probably be content with their full value. If you will inform me who the purchasers are, it is all I desire at present.”