"But shouldn't we tell him that it has been stolen?" I asked surprised.
She energetically shook her head.
"But jewellers have an organisation for the recovery of stolen jewels," I persisted. "The only way we can prevent the thief from realising on the pearls is by having the loss published throughout the trade."
"I can't consent to that," she said with painfully compressed lips. "I want you to make your investigation first."
"Do you mind telling me who is your jeweller?"
"Mr. Alfred Mount."
"If you could only tell me why he must not be told," I insinuated.
She still shook her head. "A woman's reason," she murmured, avoiding my glance.
"You know, of course, how you increase my difficulties by withholding part of your confidence."
There was a little tremble in her lovely throat. "Don't make me sorry I asked you to help me," she said.