I went in; and after a little hemming and hawing--for I had never been at such a fashionable place before--asked one of the gentlemen to let me speak to Mr.Polonius.
"What can I do for you, sir ?" says Mr.Polonius, who was standing close by, as it happened, serving three ladies,--a very old one and two young ones, who were examining pearl necklaces very attentively.
"Sir," said I, producing my jewel out of my coat-pocket, "this jewel has, I believe, been in your house before: it belonged to my aunt, Mrs.
Hoggarty, of Castle Hoggarty." The old lady standing near looked round as I spoke.
"I sold her a gold neck-chain and repeating watch in the year 1795," said Mr.Polonius, who made it a point to recollect everything; "and a silver punch-ladle to the Captain.

How is the Major--Colonel--General--eh, sir ?" "The General," said I, "I am sorry to say"-- though I was quite proud that this man of fashion should address me so.--"Mr.Hoggarty is--no more.

My aunt has made me a present, however, of this--this trinket--which, as you see, contains her husband's portrait, that I will thank you, sir, to preserve for me very carefully; and she wishes that you would set this diamond neatly." "Neatly and handsomely, of course, sir." "Neatly, in the present fashion; and send down the account to her.

There is a great deal of gold about the trinket, for which, of course, you will make an allowance." "To the last fraction of a sixpence," says Mr.Polonius, bowing, and looking at the jewel.

"It's a wonderful piece of goods, certainly," said he; "though the diamond's a neat little bit, certainly.