It's very much like buying rare gems or old paintings, I'd say." "Very much, I'm sure.

I suppose you'd call Neenah a rare gem ?" "She is certainly not an old painting." "How old is she, pray ?" "Seventeen--by no means an antique.

Speaking of princesses and ogres, has it occurred to you that you would bring a fortune in the market ?" "Mr.Chase!" "You know, it's barely possible that you may be put in a matrimonial shop window if Von Blitz and his friends should capture you alive.

Ever think of that ?" "Good heavens! You--why, what a horrible thing to say!" "You won't bring as much in the South Sea market as you would in Rapp-Thorberg or Paris, but I daresay you could be sold for--" "Please, Mr.Chase, don't suggest anything so atrocious," she cried, something like terror in her voice.
"Neenah's father sold her for a handful of gems," said he, with distinct meaning in his voice.

She was silent, and he went on after a moment.