"A dollar and a half!" exclaimed the young man, clutching at the counter for support. "A dollar and a half on this magnificent diamond ring, for which my aunt paid three hundred and fifty dollars! What do you mean?"
"I mean not to be cheated, my friend. How much do you think this magnificent ring is worth?"
"I have told you what it cost."
"My friend, you are very much mistaken. The ring cost only three dollars or three and a half."
"What do you mean?" gasped the visitor, turning pale.
"I mean that it is not diamond, but paste."
"But—it came from a jeweler of great reputation. Surely you have heard of Mr. Henry Swan."
"Yes, I have heard of Mr. Swan. If you will bring him here, and he will say that the diamond is real, I will see if I can't give you more."
"Wait!" said the customer hurriedly, drawing out the other casket. "Look at this ring, and tell me what it is worth."
The pawnbroker took it to the window and examined it attentively.