She had not by any means made up her mind what to buy, and, indeed, in Carrissima's eyes shopping was always an elaborate rite. She stood for a few minutes gazing in at the tempting window, and entering presently, began to inspect various trays of rings and brooches, although she had no intention to purchase anything of the kind. During the process Mr. Donaldson, who had known her from childhood, came to the assistance of the salesman and talked about the weather. At last a silver card-case was selected.
"I wonder," said Carrissima, "whether it would be possible to have it engraved by to-morrow morning."
"I think that can be managed," returned Mr. Donaldson.
"You might send it to Golfney Place with my card," suggested
Carrissima, taking one from her case.
"It shall be there quite early, madam," said the salesman, making a note in a long, slim book.
At the moment Carrissima scarcely noticed the significance of the fact that he appeared already to know the name of the recipient and the number of her house. He had certainly written "Miss Rosser, 5——" before Carrissima had time to give him the address!
"The initials are B——"
But he had scribbled "B. R." in his book while yet the sentence was incomplete.
"How did you know?" she demanded eagerly.
"I beg your pardon, madam!" said the salesman, whilst Mr. Donaldson drew watchfully nearer.