"Ah, that simplifies it all," said the count, pleasantly. "Will you be kind enough to go before an attesting officer and complete the proofs? You have answered the advertisement—do I insult you by speaking of reward?" He looked critically at her simple but elegant attire and hesitated.
"No. But I do not care for money. I will furnish positive proof of the death of Gaspard Levigne for the violin mentioned in the advertisement." The man was now much astounded.
"But madame, it is an heirloom; that is why I have advertised for it."
"Then get it. And let me receive it direct from the hands of the present holder or I shall not furnish the proofs." Some doubt of the woman's sanity flashed over the count.
"I have already explained, madame, that it is an heirloom——"
"And I have shown you that I do not consider that as important."
"But of what use can it possibly be to you? There are other Cremonas I will buy—"
"I want this one because it is the violin of Gaspard Levigne, and he was my husband."
The count nearly leaped from the floor.
"When did he marry you, madame?"