The Flyman cursed.
'Can't a bloke have one?'
'Not unless he wishes to pay for it more than it's worth. Come, man, look pleasant.'
The Flyman did not 'look pleasant;' but he restored the ring. Mr Burton expressed approval.
'That's better. Now, show yourself as keen in the right direction. Give us a proof of the "handiness" you talked about, and find that ruby. It'll be worth to you more than all those other things.'
On this point the Flyman, from his manner, seemed to have his doubts; but he continued his researches. Mr Cox observed that they were strictly confined to what Mr Burton had called the 'right direction.' Mr Burton, returning to the locked door, pursued his meditations as he listened at the panel.
'It's odd that they're so quiet, and suggests mischief. In such a case, surely women are not quiet. Unless--unless what? That's what I should like to know.'
'Burton, is this the ruby?'
The words came sharply from Mr Cox, with a sudden interposition from the Flyman.
'You give me that! Don't you lay your fingers on the thing!'