When Paul produced the diamond ring, the clerk, who had long been in the business, and perceived its value at once, started in surprise.
“This is a very valuable ring,” he said.
“So I thought,” said Paul. “How much is it worth?”
“Do you mean how much should we ask for it?”
“No; how much would you give for it?”
“Probably two hundred and fifty dollars.” Paul was quite startled on finding the ring so much more valuable than he had supposed. He had thought it might possibly be worth a hundred dollars; but he had not imagined any rings were worth as much as the sum named.
“Will you buy it of me?” he asked.
The clerk regarded Paul attentively, and, as he thought, a little suspiciously.
“Does the ring belong to you?” he asked.
“No, to my mother.”