Paul knew the store, but had never entered it. Now, as he entered, he
was struck with astonishment at the sight of the immense and costly
stock, unrivaled by any similar establishment, not only in the United
States, but in Europe. Our hero walked up to the counter, and stood
beside a richly-dressed lady who was bargaining for a costly bracelet.
He had to wait ten minutes while the lady was making her choice from a
number submitted to her for inspection. Finally she selected one, and
paid for it. The clerk, now being at leisure, turned to our hero and
asked:--
"Well, young man, what can I do for you?"
"I have a ring which I should like to show you. I want to know how much
it is worth."
"Very well. Let me see it."
When Paul produced the diamond ring, the clerk, who had long been in the
business, and perceived its value at once, started in surprise.
"This is a very valuable ring," he said.
"So I thought," said Paul. "How much is it worth?"
"Do you mean how much should we ask for it?"
"No; how much would you give for it?"
"Probably two hundred and fifty dollars." Paul was quite startled on
finding the ring so much more valuable than he had supposed. He had
thought it might possibly be worth a hundred dollars; but he had not
imagined any rings were worth as much as the sum named.
"Will you buy it of me?" he asked.
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