"I will do as you suggest."

Maiden Lane is a street largely devoted to jewelers, wholesale and
retail. Rodney followed Mr. Woods into a store about midway between
Broadway and Nassau Street. A pleasant looking man of middle age greeted
the agent cordially.

"What can I do for you?" he asked. "Do you wish to buy a diamond ring
for the future Mrs. Woods?"

"Not much. I would like to have you appraise some jewelry belonging to
my young friend here."

The casket was opened, and the jeweler examined the contents admiringly.

"This is choice jewelry," he said. "Does your friend wish to sell?"

"Not at present," answered Rodney.

"When you do give me a call. I will treat you fairly. You wish me to
appraise these articles?"

"Yes, sir, if you will."

"It will take me perhaps fifteen minutes."

The jeweler retired to the back part of the store with the casket.

In about a quarter of an hour he returned.