here, suspecting that he intended to dispose of them." "That is false," exclaimed Grant, indignantly. "I never saw that woman before in my life." "So you are a liar as well as a thief!" said the woman. "You will please give me those pearls, sir." The clerk looked at the two contestants in indecision. He was disposed to believe the lady's statement. CHAPTER VII MRS. SIMPSON COMES TO GRIEF "Surely I have a right to my own property," said the showily dressed lady in a tone of authority, which quite imposed upon the weak-minded salesman. "I dare say you are right, ma'am," said he, hesitatingly. "Of course I am," said she. "If you give her those pearls, which belong to my mother, I will have you arrested," said Grant, plucking up spirit. "Hoity-toity!" said the lady, contemptuously. "I hope you won't pay any regard to what that young thief says." The clerk looked undecided. He beckoned an older salesman, and laid the matter before him. The latter looked searchingly at the two. Grant was flushed and excited, and the lady had a brazen front. "Do you claim these pearls, madam?" he said. "I do," she answered, promptly. "How did you come by them?" "They were a wedding present from my husband." "May I ask your name?"