package
the methodical dealer sets down in a clear hand the number, the kind of
stone and the weights. A number of paper packages are conveniently
arranged in a soft leather wallet and held in place with an elastic
band.
When
closed and carried about in the dealer's specially constructed deep
pocket, a metal safety chain gives, or should give, additional
security. The cautious dealer in precious stones, more than any other
merchant, knows and bears constantly in mind that he is the chosen prey
of the high-class and intelligent (if intelligence of the true sort has
anything to do with crime) criminal.
Of
the pockets, hip-pocket and breast-pocket are dangerous. Two wallets,
each carried in a separate division of a specially constructed
waistcoat worn below the ordinary waistcoat seem to me to constitute a
commendable way for carrying great values. There are other ways, upon
which I need not elaborate here. Regular irregularity will also help to
give a measure of protection against the "lie in wait" fraternity. Do
not make it a practice, I say to the beginner (it is no use trying to
teach other old dogs new tricks)—do not make it a practice to set out
on your rounds every day at the same hour or to return to your office
at a given time. Take different roads each day. Don't stop and look
into shop windows; leave crowds severely alone. Keep your eyes open, and if you happen to notice
the face of an unknown popping up again and again as you go round, take
heed. Don't challenge the owner of the face, for he may want nothing
better. He may be provoking a quarrel, in which case the "lay" is that
his confederate or confederates will soon join in the fray and
