“‘You know, my dear,’ said Mrs. Jericho, in her sweetest, most convincing voice, ‘it would be impossible to go to Court without diamonds. One isn’t dressed without diamonds.’
“‘Court!’ Jericho opened his eyes, and a wan smile broke on his thin, blank cheek. ‘Are you going to Court?’
“‘Why, of course—are we not, dear Mr. Candytuft? What would be thought of us if we did not pay our homage to——’
“The sentence was broken by the sudden appearance of Monica and Agatha, each bearing a jewel-case, and looking radiant with the possession.
“‘Thank you, dear papa,’ said Monica, curtseying and smiling her best to Jericho.
“‘They’re beautiful. Thank you—dear, dearest papa,’ cried the more impulsive Agatha.
“‘Look!’ said Monica, and she exhibited her treasure.
“‘Look!’ cried Agatha, and she half dropped upon one knee, on the other side, to show her jewels.
“‘Beautiful!’ cried Candytuft. ‘Pray, ladies, don’t stir.’
“The girls, with pretty wonder on their faces, kept their positions on either side of Jericho.