The jeweller’s accusation was so unexpected and startling to Breeze that he flushed hotly, and for a moment found no words to answer it. Then he demanded, indignantly,
“How dare you say such a thing? Give me back my property instantly, or I shall be the one to call in the police!”
“Certainly, my young friend, certainly, when you produce the proof that it is yours,” replied the man, dropping the trinket into a drawer, of which he turned the lock.
There was no element of decision lacking in Breeze’s character; he was quick to act in emergencies, and without another word he stepped to the door. A small boy was passing.
“Sonny,” said Breeze, “run quick and bring a policeman. If he is here within five minutes I will give you five cents.”
The boy, keenly alive to a situation that promised so much excitement as this, started off on a run. Breeze remained standing where he could survey the whole interior of the store, and could especially keep an eye on the drawer in which lay his property.
The men inside watched him closely. They had seen him despatch the boy on some errand, but had not overheard what he said, and did not know what it was. Now the one who had opened the ball approached him and said,
“Why don’t you go for your proofs? You had better hurry, as we shall close up soon, and then we could not look at them until to-morrow.”
“I have sent for them,” answered Breeze, simply.
“Oh,” said the man, somewhat disconcerted. “Well, of course, if they come in time, and are satisfactory, you shall have your charm back, and an apology into the bargain.”