"Thank you, thank you," the woman murmured gratefully. "How can I ever repay you for saving my pearls?"
"By taking better care of them in the future," he responded grimly.
Mrs. Dillon looked slightly offended. "I have always taken excellent care of my pearls, Mr. Nichols," she replied.
"Perhaps your idea of excellent care does not agree with mine. The necklace is insured?"
"No, it isn't," Mrs. Dillon admitted reluctantly. "My husband spoke of attending to it several times but never did."
"You took a great risk wearing the pearls at a function such as this without even the precaution of having detectives on the premises to watch for gem thieves."
"You were here," Mrs. Dillon smiled. "I shall have my husband send you a check in the morning."
"Then I shall be compelled to return it," the detective replied. "May I ask if you have been in the habit of keeping the necklace in the house, Mrs. Dillon?"
"Why, yes, but I assure you I have an excellent hiding place."
Mr. Nichols could not restrain an amused smile.