She turned and walked off in the opposite direction, and Mr. Walters, after a moment's hesitation, turned and followed. They walked in this fashion for some distance; then the boatswain, quickening his pace, caught her roughly by the arm.
"I want to show you something," he growled.
Miss Jelks eyed him disdainfully.
"In 'ere," said the other, pointing to the same jeweller's window that had been the cause of so much discomfort to Captain Trimblett.
"Well?" said the girl, her eyes sparkling.
For answer the gentle swain took her by the elbows and propelled her into the shop, and approaching the counter gazed disagreeably at the shopman.
"I want a ring for this young lady," he said, reddening despite himself. "A good 'un—one o' the best."
The man turned to the window and, after a little careful groping, unhooked a velvet card studded with rings. Rosa's eyes shone, but she drew off her glove with a fine show of unwillingness at the boatswain's command.
"Try that on," he said, pointing to a ring.
Miss Jelks placed it on the third finger of her left hand, and holding it up to the light gazed at it entranced.