"My child, I am not a pawnbroker, but I think it will be better for me to lend you something on the ring."
"If you only would, madam! I feel timid about going to a pawnshop."
"Where they would offer some ridiculous trifle for it, no doubt. Here, child, give me the ring."
Rose drew it from her finger and handed it to Miss Wilmot.
The latter drew a purse from her pocket and slipped the ring into it.
"It is too small for me to wear," she said. "It will be safe in my purse."
She drew out two five-dollar bills and handed them to Rose.
"Ten dollars!" exclaimed Rose, in surprise.
"I don't do business on the regular terms," said Miss Wilmot, smiling. "I am sure the ring is worth more than ten dollars to you. Some day you may be able to redeem it."