The diamonds were in
her possession, and she had had them valued by her old friend Mr. Benjamin
of the firm of Harter & Benjamin. Mr. Benjamin had suggested that stones
of such a value should not be left to the risk of an ordinary London
house; but Lizzie had felt that if Mr. Benjamin got them into his hands,
Mr. Benjamin might perhaps not return them. Messrs. Camperdown and Garnett
between them might form a league with Mr. Benjamin. Where would she be,
should Mr. Benjamin tell her that under some legal sanction he had given
the jewels up to Mr. Camperdown? She hinted to Mr. Benjamin that she would
perhaps sell them if she got a good offer. Mr. Benjamin, who was very
familiar with her, hinted that there might be a little family difficulty.
"Oh, none in the least," said Lizzie; "but I don't think I shall part with
them." Then she gave Mr. Benjamin an order for a strong box, which was
supplied to her. The strong box, which was so heavy that she could barely
lift it herself, was now in her London bedroom.
On the morning of the third day she read the letter. Miss Macnulty was
staying with her, but she had not said a word to Miss Macnulty about the
letter.
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