“And you’ve found some?” asked Mr. Jordan rather impatiently.
“Ah, yes. You will be delighted when I tell you what they are. The rarest of the rare. Mounted beautifully by one of my expert taxidermists.”
He opened a small black satchel which he had carried. After a few seconds of nervous fumbling he removed a small leather notebook.
“Here,” he said, handing the book to Mr. Jordan. “The complete list of specimens is here. Each is described carefully. All told, there are five of the most unusual wild creatures imaginable.”
“Only five!” whispered Mr. Holton, appearing suddenly angered. “Why, there were ten in the box that was stolen.”
Almost at once the attorney broached the same matter.
“Five are all you have for sale?” he asked casually. “Why, that is only a small handful, so to speak.”
“Well, ah—” the stranger hesitated before speaking—“I might be able to secure more for you.”
Mr. Jordan looked up suddenly.