He would arrive late; he would make his approach as ostensible as possible; he would apologize for his tardiness.
His alibi would be perfect.
During these proposed depravities Raikes had closed and fastened the door, seated himself at the table, and pressed the spring which detained the lid of the shagreen case.
In a dazzling instant it flew open.
“Ah!” A very riot of irradiation and gleam met his eyes.
Here was rehabilitation! Here was amendment!
The diamond was a liberal equivalent for his losses.
Another glance at the clock revealed to him that he had exhausted ten minutes in his exultation.
This left a balance of ten minutes for a compunction or two.
Apparently he did not realize his opportunity, for half of the remaining time was consumed in the intoxication of the facets and the glamor, the thrill of intelligent valuation; and the other half to a grim calculation as to the usury that might accrue after the account with his losses was balanced.