"Well no, not an ordinary one of course. I suppose you know that I am engaged to your friend?"
Mr. Barnes assented with a bow, and Emily continued:
"Shortly after we became engaged, I went to Europe, and whilst there I came across a jeweller who produced the most beautiful carvings in cameo and intaglio. I ordered a set made to be used for buttons."
"All similar to this?"
"Similar but not identical. This one has Shakespeare's head. The others represent Romeo and Juliet."
Mr. Barnes determined upon a bold stroke. Taking the button from his pocket, and handing it to Emily, he said quietly:
"Here is a cameo of Juliet. Perhaps it may interest you?"
"Why this is extraordinary! It is one of my set!"
"One of yours, why have you lost one? How many did you have?"