“And the Czarina’s diamonds,” answered the Queen’s Messenger imperturbably. “It’s not much of a story, but it gives you an idea of the woman’s character. The robbery took place between Paris and Marseilles.” The Baronet interrupted him with an abrupt movement. “No, no,” he cried, shaking his head in protest. “Do not tempt me. I really cannot listen. I must be at the House in ten minutes.” “I am sorry,” said the Queen’s Messenger. He turned to those seated about him. “I wonder if the other gentlemen--” he inquired tentatively. There was a chorus of polite murmurs, and the Queen’s Messenger, bowing his head in acknowledgment, took a preparatory sip from his glass. At the same moment the servant to whom the man with the black pearl had spoken, slipped a piece of paper into his hand. He glanced at it, frowned, and threw it under the table. The servant bowed to the Baronet. “Your hansom is waiting, Sir Andrew,” he said. “The necklace was worth twenty thousand pounds,” began the Queen’s Messenger. “It was a present from the Queen of England to celebrate--” The Baronet gave an exclamation of angry annoyance. “Upon my word, this is most provoking,” he interrupted. “I really ought not to stay. But I certainly mean to hear this.” He turned irritably to the servant. “Tell the hansom to wait,” he commanded, and, with an air of a boy who is playing truant, slipped guiltily into his chair. The gentleman with the black pearl smiled blandly, and rapped upon the table. “Order, gentlemen,” he said. “Order for the story of the Queen’s Messenger and the Czarina’s diamonds.” CHAPTER II