He took from his vest pocket a velvet case containing a large ring, which he laid in the palm of her hand.
It was composed of an oval jacinth, with a splendid scarlet fire leaping out as the light shone on it, and the diamonds that clustered around it were very costly and brilliant. There was no inscription, but upon the surface of the jacinth was engraved a female head crowned with oak leaves, among which serpents writhed and hissed, and just beneath the face grinned a dog's head. The small but exquisitely carved human face was savage, sullen, sinister, and fiery rays seemed to dart from the relentless eyes.
"Is it a Medusa?"
"No."
"It is certainly very beautiful, but I do not recognize the face.
Interpret for me."
"It is Hecate, Brimo, Empusa—all phases of the same malignant power; and it remains a mere matter of taste which of the titles you select. I call it Hecate."
"I have never seen you wear it."
"You never will."
"It is exceedingly beautiful."
Edna held it toward the grate, flashed the flame now on this side, now on that, and handed it back to the owner.