Mr. Bressani's hand trembled slightly, as he lifted the stone from
the scales and again held it to the light. "Yes--yes--it does seem
impossible!"
"But nobody ever saw such a diamond!" was again announced by William.
"Never!" from Mr. Bressani.
"How much did the Cullinan weigh?" William asked.
"About three thousand and thirty carats in the rough--about a pound and
three-quarters. It was cut into three large stones and several smaller
ones. Two of these stones are the largest brilliants in existence."
"But, are you sure, Bressani," said the Senior Partner, "absolutely
sure that it _is_ a diamond?"
Mr. Bressani smiled, shrugged his shoulders, and with a gesture of both
hands, palms out, replied, slowly:
"I am not a rich man, but whatever property I possess, and whatever I
can borrow up to a million dollars I would gladly give to Mr. Alton if
I might own this stone."