While the unhappy wife was thus engaged her companion once more proceeded to examine the shattered looking glass.
As yet she had but taken a curious glance at the article in question. Now she made a more searching and minute inspection of it.
She removed the remains of the plate from its front and then uttered an expression of surprise and wonder. The back was literally lined with Bank of England notes.
Bessie’s head seemed to swim as she made this unlooked-for discovery.
“Heaven be merciful to us!” she exclaimed. “See here, there are more of them—a whole heap.”
“What!” ejaculated Mrs. Bristow, whose heart was by this time beating audibly. “I feel as if about to swoon.”
“Bear up, dear,” said her friend. “You have nothing to fear, but everything to hope. Here are several notes for a thousand pounds. You are an independent woman, and the possessor of fabulous wealth. Be of good cheer. A bright future is before you. Now we know what to do.”
“I feel quite overcome—completely prostrated. Can it be? Is it possible? Or is it all deception?”
“Never you mind, we shall soon be able to ascertain all about this wondrous gift presented to us—or rather to you—by Dame Fortune. I tell you there are notes for thousands, and you are rich—immensely rich.”
“I find it hard to believe.”