The Ring OF TRUTH

Julie had a keen eye and a suspicious mind, but would her instincts be proved right?

Julie Caplin strolled leisurely past the antique stalls on the seafront, looking for something old, gold, and gorgeous for her grandmother’s birthday. The kindly assistant in Glisters’ jewelry store had been right – this looked much more promising than the upmarket outlets in the overpriced arcade.

Now, looking around, she was surprised by the range of goods on show, not just the ceramics and vintage clothing you’d expect to find, but gold and silver items, too, glinting in the morning sun. Surprising also was the lack of security – no locked doors and metal grilles that usually protected valuables. She wondered how many items were lost to theft. Spotting a sweet little cameo brooch, she bent to take a closer look.

‘Here,’ the stallholder offered, lifting the lid and handing her the brooch.

‘It’s lovely,’ she said, admiring the delicate carving. ‘I can’t believe this is all on display. You must need eyes in the back of your head.’

The man winked. ‘Between you and me, it’s mostly old stock. Everyone takes out extra insurance for market days, but even so, you’d be crazy to bring your best stuff here. You like that brooch? Make me an offer.’

She suggested an amount below what she’d budgeted for, and to her surprise, he accepted without demur. She had just paid when an argument between two women started behind her.