“Yes, of course,” ran on Gladwin; “and the china and the family plate––nearly two hundred years old.”
“Why, I don’t think he ever mentioned the miniatures, or, or”–––
“That is singular,” broke in Gladwin, striving to conceal the sarcasm that crept into his voice. “Strange he overlooked the china, plate and miniatures. I don’t understand it, do you?” and he turned to Barnes, who had caught the last of the dialogue and shifted his immediate mental interest from the shy Sadie.
“No, I really don’t, old man,” said Barnes.
“Do let me show you the miniatures,” Gladwin addressed Helen upon a sudden inspiration.
“That will be splendid,” cried Helen. “I adore miniatures.”
“They are just in the next room,” said Gladwin, leading the way to a door to the left of the great onyx fireplace.
As she followed, Helen called to her cousin:
“Come along, Sadie, this will be a treat!”