"Then I hope I can help you. Please be as frank as you think best.
The franker you are, the fewer questions I shall have to ask. Go on."
"Well then, I want to find a certain valuable diamond cross."
"A diamond cross?"
"Yes. I don't know just what it is worth, but I believe a small fortune."
"And was it stolen from you?"
"No. Though I do own a store where jewelry is sold, we don't carry an expensive line. This cross belonged to a friend of mine. She had it on when we were out walking together, and—well, it became damaged and I asked her to let me take it to have it repaired."
"Nothing very complicated or troublesome in that. I suppose the cross was stolen from you while it was temporarily in your possession, and you don't like to let your friend know, for fear she may suspect you. Such things have happened. Did you ever read de Maupassant's 'Diamond Necklace?'"
"I never did."
"I'd advise you to. Also Walton."
"Is he a jeweler?"