The policeman directed his questions toward Penny who answered them to the best of her ability. However, she was unable to furnish a very good description of the thief.
"Officer, you must find that man," Mrs. Dillon said urgently. "I'll pay a liberal reward for the return of my jewels. I must have them back! They represent a fortune!"
"I'll do the best I can, Madam."
"The pearls will be recovered, Mrs. Dillon," Hanley Cron said soothingly. "Our police force is very efficient."
"I shouldn't have carried the pearls in my purse," Mrs. Dillon moaned. "Christopher Nichols warned me. I should have heeded his words."
"Where were you when the bag was snatched?" the officer questioned.
"I had just left my car. I was coming here to meet Mr. Cron. We were taking luncheon together."
"Had you told anyone that you were carrying the pearls in the purse?"
"Only Mr. Cron. Of course Christopher Nichols was aware of my intention."
"I knew you were taking the jewels to the bank vault," Penny informed. "I overheard you talking at the ball, and I believe others must have listened to the conversation too."