Page:Watts Mumford--Whitewash.djvu/102

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

WHITEWASH

of her mundane future. To make amends, and since the dramatic qualities of the situation seemed to require it, she kissed the note, carefully avoiding the observation of the maid. Next with swift fingers she unfastened the packet. A little hot wave of joy broke over her as its contents lay revealed, An ancient brooch of rose diamonds set about a splendid emerald, matchless in color, though flawed. Wound through the design were two tiny gold dolphins, from whose mouths swinging pendants hung. A gem of workmanship, beautiful, priceless. Philippa gazed at it in delight, then, fearing her aunt's detective eye and ironic laugh, hastily hid the jewel in her bosom.

96