There are black pearls of much value, but though rare, they are never
half as beautiful as a white or pink one. Some pink pearls are very
lovely, and when large-sized, are also very expensive.

The pearl we see lying here is a splendid white one, and my! the money
it would bring! Pick up that shell, carry it with you to a jeweller, and
see the dollars the fair round gem will bring to your purse. You could
buy yourself beautiful clothes, or a pony, or could have with it a fine
party, flowers, favors, treat and all.

What? Don't dare to? Oh, me, me, what a little coward! I can't pick it
up very well. If I took it in my mouth, down my throat it would go. If I
tried to catch it up with a fin, over into the water it would bounce.

Never mind. Look at the sweetly beautiful conch-shell, with the
splendid gem resting so softly on its pink, polished side. And let me
tell you what I think.

The opinion of a fish, even a great lordly one, may not be worth much,
but to me that exquisitely lovely stone, reposing on that exquisitely
lovely shell, is a far more beautiful thing to look upon than the jewel
ever could be when fitted into the costliest setting of gold.

Now it is just as it was made, and I think that Whoever formed and set
that pearl knew more about real beauty and fitness, and what is simple,
natural, and very beautiful, than all the Folks and jewellers in the
world.

Look at that white splendor. Don't you agree with me?