The pawnbroker took the box, and drawing out the ring held it up in the best light. He examined it through a magnifying glass, and a gleam of intelligence flashed in his face.
He returned to the counter, and scrutinizing the young man who had presented it asked in a matter-of-fact tone, "What do you want to borrow on the ring, my friend?"
"Two hundred dollars," answered the customer promptly.
"Humph!" said the pawnbroker with an amused smile, "two hundred dollars is a large sum of money."
"Yes, but the ring cost three hundred and fifty dollars. I am asking a little more than half price."
"So! the ring cost three hundred and fifty dollars! Did you pay that price for it?"
"No, the ring does not belong to me."
"Then to whom does it belong?"
"To my aunt, Mrs. Philip Montgomery."
"I do not know the lady. Does she live in the city?"