When satisfied by her examination that she had got the right article she shut it into its case.
The manager closed the chest for her; and when it was again secured Paula arose, tossed the necklace into her hand-bag, bowed to the manager, and was about to bid him good morning.

Thereupon he said with some hesitation: 'Pardon one question, Miss Power.

Do you intend to take those jewels far ?' 'Yes,' she said simply, 'to Stancy Castle.' 'You are going straight there ?' 'I have one or two places to call at first.' 'I would suggest that you carry them in some other way--by fastening them into the pocket of your dress, for instance.' 'But I am going to hold the bag in my hand and never once let it go.' The banker slightly shook his head.

'Suppose your carriage gets overturned: you would let it go then.' 'Perhaps so.' 'Or if you saw a child under the wheels just as you were stepping in; or if you accidentally stumbled in getting out; or if there was a collision on the railway--you might let it go.' 'Yes; I see I was too careless.

I thank you.' Paula removed the necklace from the bag, turned her back to the manager, and spent several minutes in placing her treasure in her bosom, pinning it and otherwise making it absolutely secure.
'That's it,' said the grey-haired man of caution, with evident satisfaction.