"Open it and see," he said.
She hesitated. She seemed almost afraid. "I hope it isn't anything very—very—"
"Open it and see," he repeated.
She obeyed him with hands that had begun to tremble, took out an object wrapped in tissue-paper, unfolded the coverings, and disclosed a jewel-case.
Then again she hesitated, standing as one in doubt. "Trevor, I—I—"
"Open it, dear," he said gently.
And mutely she obeyed.
Diamonds flashed before her dazzled eyes, a myriad sparkling colours shot spinning through her brain. She stood gazing, gazing, as one beneath a spell. For the passage of many seconds there was no sound in the room.
Then with a sudden movement she closed the case. It shut with a sharp snap, and she raised a haggard face.
"Trevor, it's lovely—lovely! But I can't take it—anyhow, not yet—not till I have paid you back."