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Rh me wish that there were no such things as jewels. But I have told Mary that she is not to worry; that we have a member of the family who is worth a whole bureau of detectives."

A cynical sort of grin spread over John's self-indulgent mouth.

"You are right, Edith," I said. "I told John a little while ago that I could locate those pearls, and so I can."

"Do you know who stole them?" asked Mary Dalghren, with a straight look.

"I think so," I answered. "Now I want to ask you some questions. You went to dine at the Billings last night and wore your pearls. Who and what are the Billings?"

"They are rich Americans who have come over here to educate their daughters. They live on the Avenue de Bois."

"Are they aristocratic people?" I asked.

The two women exchanged glances.

"Hardly that," answered Miss Dalghren, hesitatingly, "Mr. Billings is rather a common man who has made a big fortune in ready-made clothes, or something of the sort. His wife is ordinary, but kind and well meaning. She is very ambitious socially."

"How about their guests?" I asked. "How many were there and what were they like?"

There were twelve, only four of whom I had ever met before. Two or three of them I thought rather queer." "Could you describe a few of the men?" I asked. "There were a few titles, I suppose?"