Owen looked at the coins in sincere admiration.
"It is very remarkable," he said. "But Balthazar tells me—"
"I know. You have a little business of secrecy for myself and my friends. You may speak here in perfect safety, Mr. Owen. Gossip is not a fault—or a possibility—of our profession."
"I do not believe there is anything to say but what Balthazar has already told you, except—"
Owen hesitated.
"Except what, master? Is there a change in the plan?" asked
Balthazar.
"I think there might be. Something occurred today that might give us a favorable lead. Miss Pauline received as a gift a terrier dog. I believe it could be made use of."
"In what way?" asked the counterfeiter.
"By stealing it and bringing it here."
"I don't understand—ah, yes; indeed I do."