It is a jewel he treasured not only for its value, but its history.

Yet he gave it me.

It was won by the great King John of Poland, and remains as a memorial of the most glorious day in all that warrior's glorious life; yet his son gave it me.

With his own hands he put it into mine to prove to me with what confidence he trusted your Highness's daughter to my care.

That confidence was written large in the letter I burnt, but I am thinking it is engraved for ever upon this stone." The Princess-mother took the snuff-box reluctantly and turned it over and over.