without inquiry or right, as might any trifling article either of use or
ornament. The jewels are valued at over £10,000.

"We are reluctantly compelled, by the fact of your having left unanswered
three letters from Mr. Camperdown, Senior, on the subject, to explain to
you that if attention be not paid to this letter, we shall be obliged, in
the performance of our duty, to take legal steps for the restitution of
the property.

"We have the honour to be, Madam,

"Your ladyship's most obedient servants,

"CAMPERDOWN & SON.

"To LADY EUSTACE," etc., etc.

A few days after it was sent, old Mr. Camperdown got the letter-book of
the office and read the letter to John Eustace.

"I don't see how you're to get them," said Eustace.

"We'll throw upon her the burden of showing that they have become legally
her property. She can't do it."

"Suppose she sold them?"

"We'll follow them up. Ten thousand pounds, my dear John! God bless my
soul! it's a magnificent dowry for a daughter--an ample provision for a
younger son. And she is to be allowed to filch it, as other widows filch