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 sharply objected. "I should, from her appearance, suggest Caw's Jet Black Ink, or stove polish."

Though early, the dining-room was already crowded, which necessitated an irritating wait, but the four were at last settled at a small table, and the conversation returned to the countess.

"Did you see the lace she wore? Antique Venetian, and a gem of a piece!" Victoria spoke with a sort of detached envy.

Sonia nodded. "Yes; but what made me want to break the—what number Commandment is it, about envy?—was her pin. Did you notice it?"

"Rather!" and Victoria's face glowed with appreciation. "What was it? I never saw anything like it."

"Nor I," continued Sonia, "though I've seen—" Here she checked herself, and added, lamely, "a great deal. It was sixteenth century, I'm certain. Those pendants were unmistakable; and I think I never saw such an emerald—the size, the color!"

"It had a big flaw, though," and Victoria took 34