Sir, I am a man of few words. Your firm has been highly recommended to me by Colonel Leach-Fletcher, for whom you have acted many times in the past in matters of extreme discretion. He speaks in the highest possible terms of your integrity and efficiency. For reasons of my own I wish you to act for me at the Sale taking place on the 10th inst. at “Day, Forshaw and Palmers’.” You will purchase for me the articles scheduled in their catalogue as follows: (No. 37) “Collar of Pearls.” (No. 38) “Antique Tapestry Fire-screen.” (No. 39) “Rosary of Amber Beads.” “all having been indisputably the property of Mary, Queen of Scots.” The purchases completed, you will bring them or cause them to be brought to the above address at your earliest convenience, when your own account will be settled by Yours faithfully, Laurence P. Stewart. David Linnell, Esq., Merryweather, Linnell and Daventry. Peter looked up at his companion. “H’m,” he remarked, “seems to know what he wants. No limit I suppose, as to price?” “None! As far as I can see! He simply says, ‘You will purchase——’” Peter glanced at the letter again. “And we charge him what we like!” “Money’s no object to Stewart, Peter,” replied Linnell. “If he’s set his mind upon getting the three articles in question—nothing short of a miracle will stop him.” “Why is he employing a firm of solicitors for a job of this kind?” asked Peter. “Can’t say! But I suggest Colonel Leach-Fletcher has impressed him that we are thoroughly ‘safe and sound’—and he’s out taking no risks.” “Very possibly you’re right,” Peter commented. “I certainly can’t think of any other reason. Have you seen a catalogue of the sale?” “I’ve sent for one. Immediately upon receipt of this letter! Collins has gone round to Day, Forshaw and Palmers’ offices. He should be back very shortly!” Peter walked to the window and looked out. “Here is Collins,” he said, turning to his senior, “with catalogue complete.” In a few minutes they were examining it. It was headed as follows: “At Messrs. Day, Forshaw and Palmers’ Rooms, The Hanover Galleries, W.1. On Friday, June 10th, 192–, at one o’clock precisely. Sale of Old English and French Furniture, Pictures, Porcelain, Jewelry, and Objects of Art, Formerly the property of Lord Clavering, deceased, late of Clavering Court, Warwickshire.”