He felt sure that it was so, even though he was entirely ignorant of the value of the stones.
"Do you know what it is worth ?" he asked.
Lizzie hesitated a moment, and then remembered that "Frederic," in his present position in regard to herself, might be glad to assist her in maintaining the possession of a substantial property.

"I think they say its value is about--ten thousand pounds," she replied.
"Ten--thousand--pounds!" Lord Fawn riveted his eyes upon them.
"That's what I am told--by a jeweller." "By what jeweller ?" "A man had to come and see them,--about some repairs,--or something of that kind.

Poor Sir Florian wished it.

And he said so." "What was the man's name ?" "I forget his name," said Lizzie, who was not quite sure whether her acquaintance with Mr.Benjamin would be considered respectable.
"Ten thousand pounds! You don't keep them in the house;--do you ?" "I have an iron case up-stairs for them;--ever so heavy." "And did Sir Florian give you the iron case ?" Lizzie hesitated for a moment.

"Yes," said she.