She shook her head with a little, apologetic smile.
“I am afraid I cannot, Mr. Carter. It would not be proper to reveal a secret that is not my own.”
“A secret?”
“Well, it may be a secret. I do not know much about foreign politics, especially those of a place like Joyalita, which seems to be different from most other countries, large or small. That is why I am careful not to say more than I can help.”
“Then that is all?” asked Nick Carter, rising. “If I hear anything about this jeweled watch, I will report to you. I think you told me there is an ‘M’ in diamonds as part of its ornamentation?”
“Yes. I know this is a very small case, Mr. Carter. But my husband persuaded me to call you up. He thought the fact of its being the property of a very important personage, and because there is a value attached to the article entirely distinct from what it would bring if offered for sale, could weigh with you.”
“It does,” replied the detective. “I should like to have known the name of that man they think might have stolen the watch, however.”
“Perhaps you will find out yourself,” smiled Mrs. van Raikes. “I am sorry I cannot tell you.”
CHAPTER IV.
CLAUDIA COMES FOR HELP.
It was with an amused smile that Nick Carter leaned back in his taxi after leaving Mrs. van Raikes’ home in Millionaires’ Row, Fifth Avenue, on his way down to his home in Madison Avenue.