"That depends upon what ye want to know." This reply, delivered in an abrupt and uncouth manner, suggested that the diamond merchant's disposition was anything but a cut and polished one.
"Quite so. You have heard of the Heredith murder, I presume."
The diamond merchant nodded his head without speaking, and waited to hear more.
"The Heredith necklace of pink pearls was stolen from Mrs. Heredith's room on the night that she was murdered, and we are endeavouring to trace it."
"And what has that got to do with me?"
"I have reason to think that the necklace may have been offered or sold in Hatton Garden. It may have been submitted to you."
"What d'ye mean by coming to me with such a question? What does Mr. Musard mean by sending ye here? Does he think I've turned receiver of stolen property at my time of life? I'm surprised at him."
"My dear Mr. Wendover, Mr. Musard had no such thought in his mind. We simply come to you for information. Mr. Musard gave me your address as a reputable dealer of stones who would be likely to know if this necklace had been offered for sale in Hatton Garden."
"Well, it has not been offered to me. I've handled no pearls for twelve months."
"Would you know the Heredith necklace if it were offered to you?"