“I do. He may not have done it intentionally, but I’m certain he did it. I also have other suspicions. I’ve been quietly looking into this case.”
“And your suspicions are?”
“No matter. I want you to take a hand in it, Kean.”
“All right, sir,” I said, willing enough.
“To-night Mrs. Welton, the mother of that young squirt, gives a ball. You are to be present. You will be admitted without question, for the servant who tends the door will be one of my men.”
“And then, sir?”
“And then you’ll catch the jewel thief if you can,” he replied, somewhat testily.
“But have you no instructions?” I asked.
“No, sir. How can I have instructions when I don’t know anything about the matter? Do the best you can. I select you because you are a gentleman and have moved in good society. I expect you to catch that jewel thief to-night Mr. Kean.”
“But,” I protested, “ain’t you expecting too much?”