Meanwhile Joseph had brought a trayful of small articles. “Now, ladies,” said Mr. Trumbull, taking up one of the articles, “this tray contains a very recherchy lot⁠—a collection of trifles for the drawing-room table⁠—and trifles make the sum of human things⁠—nothing more important than trifles⁠—(yes, Mr. Ladislaw, yes, by-and-by)⁠—but pass the tray round, Joseph⁠—these bijoux must be examined, ladies. This I have in my hand is an ingenious contrivance⁠—a sort of practical rebus, I may call it: here, you see, it looks like an elegant heart-shaped box, portable⁠—for the pocket; there, again, it becomes like a splendid double flower⁠—an ornament for the table; and now”⁠— Mr.