Peter began to show signs of increased attention. This sounded better! Linnell continued. “I am informed, from a source that is certainly above reproach, that Stewart is the proud possessor of over two thousand articles of great historical significance. He claims to include in his—er Museum—if I may so describe it—a Musk-Ball used by Henry VIII for instance. He has a peculiar passion it seems for objects that are supposed to have Royal associations! Which last fact brings me to the Mary, Queen of Scots business!”
Peter raised his eyebrows—then helped himself to his third cigarette. “We’re apparently moving in exalted circles,” he ventured.
“And a great compliment to us, as a firm—Peter. But I will proceed. If he may be said to have a passion for collecting these objects that I have mentioned of Royal association—then I can tell you that he has a perfect mania—an overwhelming obsession would be perhaps a happier phrase—for anything connected with Mary, Queen of Scots.” He paused. Then looked at Peter. “Laurence P. Stewart, Peter! Note the name—he has got it into his head—or had it put there possibly—that he is a legitimate descendant of that ill-fated lady. Every relic of hers at all possible of acquisition—he acquires. Now look at this letter.”
He pushed the letter that he had picked up from his table, across to Peter.
“Read it!” he said authoritatively.
Peter obeyed the instruction with more than ordinary alacrity.
Assynton Lodge,
Assynton, Berkshire,
June 7th, 192–.
Sir,
I am a man of few words. Your firm has been highly recommended to me by Colonel Leach-Fletcher, for whom you have acted many times in the past in matters of extreme discretion. He speaks in the highest possible terms of your integrity and efficiency. For reasons of my own I wish you to act for me at the Sale taking place on the 10th inst. at “Day, Forshaw and Palmers’.” You will purchase for me the articles scheduled in their catalogue as follows:
(No. 37) “Collar of Pearls.”
(No. 38) “Antique Tapestry Fire-screen.”
(No. 39) “Rosary of Amber Beads.”
“all having been indisputably the property of Mary, Queen of Scots.”
The purchases completed, you will bring them or cause them to be brought to the above address at your earliest convenience, when your own account will be settled by
Yours faithfully,
Laurence P. Stewart.
David Linnell, Esq.,
Merryweather, Linnell and Daventry.
Peter looked up at his companion. “H’m,” he remarked, “seems to know what he wants. No limit I suppose, as to price?”
“None! As far as I can see! He simply says, ‘You will purchase——’ ” Peter glanced at the letter again.
“And we charge him what we like!”