"I came across it just now in the
Bowery. The name was the same, and I thought it just possible Mr.
Lockwood would like to have it; or, to tell you the truth, that he
might tell me what had become of the Henry Burgoyne who gave it to
him."
Young Latimer had the medal in his hand before she had finished
speaking, and was examining it carefully. He looked up with just a
touch of color in his cheeks and straightened himself visibly.
"Please don't be offended," said the fair collector. "I know what you
think. You've heard of my stupid collection, and I know you think I
meant to add this to it. But, indeed, now that I have had time to
think--you see I came here immediately from the pawnshop, and I was so
interested, like all collectors, you know, that I didn't stop to
consider. That's the worst of a hobby; it carries one rough-shod over
other people's feelings, and runs away with one. I beg of you, if you
do know anything about the coin, just to keep it and don't tell me,
and I assure you what little I know I will keep quite to myself."
Young Latimer bowed, and stood looking at her curiously, with the
medal in his hand.
"I hardly know what to say," he began slowly.
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