“Oh, but that’s a terrible price, Barclay!”
“They will be worth more in a year or two, Lady Drelincourt.”
“Oh, but I could not spare so much money.”
“Pooh! what of that! If your ladyship likes the diamonds—”
“I do like them, Barclay.”
“I should be happy to give your ladyship what credit you require.”
“Really, this is very naughty of me, Barclay; it is, indeed, but I suppose I must have them. There, slip them into my hand. You can send me the case to-morrow.”
“I will, my lady. You’ll never regret the purchase, and I am delighted that they will be worn by the queen of Saltinville society.”
“Go away, flatterer, and tell Sir Matthew Bray to bring me my salts. I left them on the chimney-piece.”
“I fly,” said Barclay; and he went through the rooms to perform his commission, Sir Matthew hurrying to get to her ladyship’s side, while Barclay turned to meet his wife who was just returning with their host.