brother Bartholomew and I had some little discussion. The pearls
were evidently of great value, and he was averse to part with
them, for, between friends, my brother was himself a little
inclined to my father's fault. He thought, too, that if we
parted with the chaplet it might give rise to gossip and finally
bring us into trouble. It was all that I could do to persuade
him to let me find out Miss Morstan's address and send her a
detached pearl at fixed intervals, so that at least she might
never feel destitute."

"It was a kindly thought," said our companion, earnestly. "It
was extremely good of you."

The little man waved his hand deprecatingly. "We were your
trustees," he said. "That was the view which I took of it,
though Brother Bartholomew could not altogether see it in that
light. We had plenty of money ourselves. I desired no more.
Besides, it would have been such bad taste to have treated a
young lady in so scurvy a fashion. 'Le mauvais gout mene au
crime.' The French have a very neat way of putting these things.
Our difference of opinion on this subject went so far that I
thought it best to set up rooms for myself: so I left
Pondicherry Lodge, taking the old khitmutgar and Williams with
me. Yesterday, however, I learn that an event of extreme
importance has occurred. The treasure has been discovered. I
instantly communicated with Miss Morstan, and it only remains for
us to drive out to Norwood and demand our share. I explained my
views last night to Brother Bartholomew: so we shall be
expected, if not welcome, visitors."