Israel was moved to go to this person by the remembrance of two things, of which either seemed enough for his preference--first, that he had bought the jewels of Reuben in the beginning, and next, the Reuben had never since ceased to speak of them in Tetuan as priceless beyond the gems of Ethiopia and the gold of Ophir.
But when Israel came to him now with the casket that he might buy, he eyed both with looks of indifference, though it was more dear to his covetous and revengeful heart that Israel should humble himself in his need, and bring these jewels, than almost any other satisfaction that could come to it.
"And what is this that you bring me ?" said Reuben languidly.
"A case of jewels," said Israel, with a downward look.
"Jewels?
umph! what jewels ?" "My poor wife's.

You know them, Reuben See!" Israel opened the casket.
"Ah, your wife's.

Umph! yes, I suppose I must have seen them somewhere." "You have seen them here, Reuben." "Here ?--do you say here ?" "Reuben, you sold them to me eighteen years ago." "Sold them to you?
Never.

I don't remember it.

Surely you must be mistaken.