"So they are! Well, well--"
The captain smiled deprecatingly, and, drawing his chair close to the
table, began to examine the box.
Its contents were a strange mixture, and it was evident that the case
had not been made to hold them.
There was a lady's gold watch, of very small size, and beautifully
formed; a set of ornaments, consisting of necklace, bracelets, ring, and
ear-rings of turquoise and pearls set in gold, of the most delicate and
exquisite chasing; also, an antique diamond cross of great beauty,
besides a number of rings and bracelets of considerable value.
As the captain took these out one by one, and commented on them, he made
use of Minnie's pretty hand and arm to try the effect of each, and truly
the ornaments could not have found a more appropriate resting-place
among the fairest ladies of the land.
Minnie submitted to be made use of in this way with a pleased and amused
expression; for, while she greatly admired the costly gems, she could
not help smiling at the awkwardness of the captain in putting them on.
"Read the paper again," said Minnie, after the contents of the box had
been examined.
The captain took up a small parcel covered with oiled cloth, which
contained a letter. Opening it, he began to read, but was interrupted
by Mrs Brand, who had paid little attention to the jewels.
"Read it out loud, brother," said she, "I don't hear you well. Read it
out; I love to hear of my darling's gallant deeds."