He examined it curiously, and saw that an inscription had been scratched into the stone in round, irregular handwriting--obviously an unskilled, almost childish effort.

Holding the brooch closer to the light, he was able to decipher the inscription.

It consisted of two words--"Semper Fidelis." It seemed to Caldew that the inscription rather weakened the correctness of his first impression that the trinket had been worn as a feminine mascot.

He doubted very much whether any modern woman would cherish a mid-Victorian sentiment like "Always Faithful." On the other hand, many men might.

His experience as a detective had led him to the belief that men were more prone to such sentiments than the other sex, though their conduct rarely accorded with their protestations and temporary intentions.
Struck by a sudden thought, he dropped the trinket back on the carpet.
It was just visible in the thick pile.
"A good idea!" he murmured, as he rose to his feet.