"Just one question," said Quarles, looking up suddenly. "Is the necklace in one of your safes in the bank here?"
"Here! It is hardly a joking matter."
"It is not a joke, but curiosity," said Quarles. "I thought you would keep the jewels at Messrs. Bartrams and not here at the bank. It is rather awkward for you, Mr. Hartmann."
"What do you mean?"
"I am wondering how you will explain your possession of Lady Leconbridge's stolen diamond necklace."
Hartmann stretched out his hand to the bell on his table.
"Ring if you want it to be known that Jacob Hartmann, the well-known and much respected banker, is also Bartrams, who have a very bad name, I can assure you."
"So you are here to trick me?" said Hartmann, thrusting his hands into his pockets as though to prevent himself touching the bell.
"No; to warn you," Quarles answered. "I have not collected all the details yet, but I think you know more of Miss Farrow than you have admitted, and are inclined to be revengeful. You must not use the weapon which chance has put into your hands."
"Must not?"