"Yes, many years ago."
"Well, as you know, it is about a sacred diamond taken from the eye of an idol, and is recovered after various adventures by the priests of the god."
"But what has that to do with----?"
"One moment, Miss Carrol. This emerald also has become a sacred stone; it also has been stolen. What is more likely but that some Shinto priest murdered Martha and another priest should snatch it from your hands?"
"But why should the emerald come to Mrs. Pentreddle at all?"
"That is what I wish to know," said the Squire, feverishly and clenching his hands. "And that," he added, bending forward, "is what you and I must find out. We must learn who murdered Martha and recover our family luck."
"I don't see how it is to be done," sighed Patricia.
"It must be done; it has to be done," and Colpster smote his knee hard.
"I'll try," said the girl and extended her hand. The Squire shook it warmly.