Indeed, sir, if I
thought her name was to be dragged into this affair, or her reputation
to be in any way imperiled, I would quietly suffer the loss of these
diamonds, and cease this investigation at once."
Nick laughed softly, and suppressed the response that, nearly rose to
his lips.
"Don't do it, Mr. Venner," said he, complacently. "My observation was
not intended to cast any reflection upon Senora Cervera. I have no doubt
that she is perfectly honest."
"I should hope not, sir."
"By the way, have you the note she sent to you this morning?"
"Yes. Here it is."
"By mail, or a messenger?"
"A messenger brought it."
"Ah!" murmured Nick, briefly studying the written page. "Plainly a
foreign hand. Very firm and forceful. It indicates a strong and
determined character. I should say that Senora Cervera is a woman of
rare qualities."
"That is perfectly correct, sir. She is a woman of rare qualities."
"What did she decide to do about the diamonds, Mr. Venner?"
"She gave me an order for the cross, Detective Carter, to be made and
delivered as soon as possible."
"This was during your call upon her this morning?"
"Certainly."
"You had previously sent no order to Hafferman for the stones?"
"Surely not.
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