The boy will tell his story to the
officer and we may be inquired for."
"Then, my dear, I will follow your advice."
Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery turned, and directed their steps again toward
Broadway. The distance was short, and fifteen minutes had scarcely
elapsed since they left the store before they again entered it. They
made their way to the lower end of the store and accosted the same clerk
with whom they had before spoken.
"Is your wife better?" he asked.
"Much better, thank you. A turn in the air always relieves her, and she
is quite herself again. I have returned because it is necessary for
me to leave the city by the evening train, and my time is, therefore,
short. Will you be kind enough to show the ring to your employer, and
ask him if he will purchase?"
The clerk returned, and said that the firm would pay two hundred and
fifty dollars, but must be assured of his right to dispose of it.
"Did you mention my name?" asked the adventurer.
"I mentioned that you were a clergyman. I could not remember the name."
"The Rev. Mr. Barnes, of Hayfield Centre, Connecticut. I have been
preaching there for--is it six or seven years, my dear?"
"Seven," said his wife.
"I should think that would be sufficient. You may mention that to Mr.
Ball or Mr. Black, if you please. I presume after that he will not be
afraid to purchase.
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