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thing most dear to his heart: and for him—to see him lord of this castle and its domains, and occupying in society the brilliant place that becomes him, I would—what would I not sacrifice!

Jean. Were he to live on the fortune he has, and marry where he is attached, he might perhaps be happier.

Countess. Happier! Were he mean enough to be happy so—contemptible thought!—I would see him in his grave rather. But no more of this: have you seen Hovelberg? You say he is waiting below.

Jean. Yes, Madam, and a friend with him; an Armenian Jew-merchant, who will, he says, go halves in his purchases, and enable him to give you a better price for the jewels, as he is himself rather low in cash at present.

Countess. Well, I'll object to neither Jew nor Infidel that puts money into my pocket. (Holding up a ruby necklace.) This should fetch something considerable.

Jean. O la, Madam! you won't part with that surely; your neck is like alabaster under it. Did you but know how they admired you at Prince Dormach's the last time you wore it.—I would sell the very gown from my back ere I parted with it.

Countess. So they admired me at Prince Dormach's then?

Jean. O dear, my Lady! the Prince's valet told me, though two young beauties from