"Oh!—my poor Mathilde, how you are changed!"
"Yes; I have had lots of trouble and misery since last I saw you—and all for you."
"For me! And how was that?"
"Do you remember the necklace of diamonds you lent me, to wear to the Minister's ball?"
"Yes; well?"
"Well, I lost it."
"Lost it! How could you, since you returned it to me?"
"I returned you one just like it, and for ten years we have been paying for it. You know, it was not easy for us, who had nothing—but it is finished, and I am very happy."
"You say that you bought a necklace of diamonds to replace mine," said Madame Forestier.
"Yes; and you never found it out! They were so much alike," and she smiled proudly.