"Your own," murmured Saltash. "Violets blue as your eyes!"
He moved his hand in the firelight, and the sapphire shone in the midst of the diamonds like a deep blue flame in the heart of a leaping fire. He drew a little nearer to her.
"You sent it back to me," he said. "I have worn it--like a faithful widower--ever since."
Her heart contracted with an odd little pain. "Don't wax sentimental, Charlie!" she pleaded, with a difficult smile.
"Would you prefer me heartless?" he said; but he withdrew his hand, and the sapphire burned no more.
They began to talk again upon ordinary topics, and the conversation turned upon the Graydown Steeplechase Races of the morrow. Two horses from the Burchester Stud were running.
"Beauties they are too!" said Bunny, with enthusiasm. "Sam Vickers swears they'll win." He uttered his quick, impatient sigh. "What wouldn't I give to see 'em do it!"
"Why shouldn't you?" said Saltash. "I'll take you over."
"Will you?" cried Bunny, with shining eyes.
And in the same breath. "No, no!" said Maud quickly. "Charlie! Why do you suggest these impossible things?"