ecise value of a gem
in its rough, uncut state, but I should say that you have there a stone
that will prove almost unique, not only as to size, but also for its
perfect colour. Have you any more like it?"

Further investigation proved that Lady Olivia had another that was
almost, if not quite, the equal of the first, as well as three others of
somewhat smaller size, but equal beauty of colour; and when, presently,
the professor proceeded to examine Sir Reginald's find, it became at
once apparent that the rubies to be found in this particular locality
were likely to prove exceptionally valuable from their extreme richness
of colour.

"And these," exclaimed von Schalckenberg, enthusiastically, "are the
results of but a few hours' search! Surely there must be a ruby mine of
almost fabulous richness somewhere close at hand. Now is the time for
me to acquire a little of that wealth of which I am in such urgent
need."

And, raising his hat to Lady Olivia, he turned away. But it was
presently noticed that, instead of examining the pebbles on the beach,
as the rest were doing, he went straight to the foot of the low cliff at
the upper edge of the beach, scrutinising its face very closely, and
foot by foot, as he passed slowly along it. When last particularly
noticed, he was seen to be apparently digging into the soil of the
cliff-face, here and there, with his pocket-knife.

At length the sound of a gong beaten on board the _Flying Fish_ gave
notice that afternoon tea was ready for whosoever chose to partake of
that refreshment; and the two ladies and little Ida--all three of whom
held the institution in great respect--at once gladly turned their steps
toward the ship, for they were fatigued and hot with their unwonted
exertions, and felt that a cup of tea was precisely what they needed for
their restoration. The men of the party, also, had by this time drifted
almost insensibly into the habit of joining the ladies at this function;
thus it came to pass that within the half-hour the entire party had
gathered beneath the awnings, and, ensconced in comfortable basket
chairs, were leisurely sipping the fragrant cup that is said to cheer
and certainly does not inebriate, while they discussed in desultory
fashion their afternoon's experiences, and compared their finds. All,
that is to say, with the exception of von Schalckenberg, who, in his
usual absent-minded way, was to be seen, about a mile distant, still
prodding a