of gems. It might be deemed a mere creation of imagination, were it
not enrolled and accurately described in the archives of our art. See
here, in the _Guide des Lapidaires_, a print of it. Mark its antique
fashioning, and that dark spot!--yes, it is indeed the precious ruby
so long thought lost. Rest assured, fellow, you shall not quit the
house until you satisfy me how you have contrived to get possession of
it.'

'I should at once have told you, but from unwillingness to endanger
the life of a poor woman who has confided in me. I got the jewel from
the Abbess de Vatteville herself, and it is her last and only
resource.' And now M. Simon proved, by unquestionable documents, that
notwithstanding his more than humble appearance, he was a man of
wealth and respectability, and received the apologies which were
tendered, together with assurances that Madame Vatteville's secret was
safe with one who, he begged to say,'knew how to respect misfortune,
whenever and however presented to his notice.'

'But what is the jewel worth?' asked M. Simon.

'Millions, sir! and neither I nor any one else in the trade here could
purchase it, unless as a joint concern, and in case of a coronation or
a marriage in one of the royal houses of Europe, for such an occasion
alone could make it not a risk to buy it. But meanwhile I will, if you
wish, mention it to some of the trade.'

'I am in no hurry,' said Simon, almost bewildered by the possession of
such a treasure. 'I may as well wait for some such occasion, and in
the meantime can make any necessary advances to the abbess. Perhaps I
may call on you again.'