“It is worth more.”
“Yes, I suppose so,” said Paul; “but he has to sell it, and make a profit.”
“He could do that, and yet make a profit. I will pay you two hundred and seventy-five dollars, myself—that is, on one condition.”
“I don't object to getting twenty-five dollars more,” said Paul. “What is the condition?”
“I have an order from a gentleman for a diamond ring for a young lady—an engagement ring, in short. If this suits him, as I think it will, I will pay you what I said. I can easily get three hundred and twenty-five from him.”
“How are you going to find out whether it will suit him?”
“Easily. He is stopping at the same hotel with me.”
“What hotel is that?”
“Lovejoy's. If you can spare the time and will come with me now, we can arrange matters at once. By the way, you can refer me to some responsible citizen, who will guarantee you. Not, of course, that I have any doubts, but we business men are forced to be cautious.”
Paul mentioned Mr. Preston's name.