y
store of Ball & Black.

"I think we had better go in here," said Felix Montgomery--(I hesitate a
little by which of his numerous names to call him).

"Why not go to Tiffany's?"

"I gather from what the boy told me that the ring has already been
offered there. It would be very likely to be recognized and that would
be awkward, you know."

"Are you sure the ring has not been offered here? asked his wife.

"Quite sure. The boy would have mentioned it, had such been the case."

"Very well. Let us go in then."

The Rev. Mr. Barnes and his wife, of Hayfield Centre; entered the
elegant store, and ten minutes later Paul Hoffman entered also, and took
his station at the counters wholly unconscious of the near proximity of
the man who had so artfully swindled him.

CHAPTER XXI

PAUL IS CHECKMATED

On entering the large jewelry store Mr. Montgomery and his wife walked
to the rear of the store, and advanced to the counter, behind which
stood a clerk unengaged.

"What shall I show you?" he inquired

"I didn't come to purchase," said Mr. Montgomery, with suavity, "but to
sell. I suppose you purchase jewelry at times?"

"Sometimes," said the clerk. "Let me see what you have."

"First," said the adventurer, "let me introduce myself. I am the Rev.
Mr. Barnes, of Hayfield Centre, Connecticut. You perhaps know the
place?"

"I don't think I remember it," said the clerk, respectfully.

"It is a small place," said Mr. Montgomery, modestly, "but my tastes are
plain and unobtrusive, and I do not aspire to a more conspicuous post.
However, that is not to the purpose. A lady parishioner, desiring to
donate a portion of her wealth to the poor, has placed in my hand a
diamond ring, the proceeds to be devoted to charitable objects. I desire
to sell it, and, knowing the high reputation of your firm feel safe in
offering it to you. I know very little of the value of such things,
since they are not in my line, but I am sure of fair treatment at your
hands."

"You may depend upon that," said the clerk, favorably impressed with the
appearance and manners of his customer. "Allow me to see the ring."

The brilliant was handed over the counter.

"It is quite valuable," said he, scrutinizing it closely.

"So I supposed, as the lady is possessed of wealth. You may rely upon
its being genuine."

"I am not authorized to purchase," said the clerk, "but I will show it to
one of the firm."

Just at that moment, Mr. Montgomery,