"It was brought by the burglar, of course," said Pauline, quickly. "I don't mean that; but where could it be bought?" "Oh, at Vantine's or any Japanese shop," said Pauline, "or at some of the department stores." "Could you, by inquiry, find out if Miss Carrington purchased it herself at any of those places?" "I could inquire; but I am sure, Mr. Stone, that Aunt Lucy never bought such a thing." "It would simplify matters somewhat if you would kindly find out," and Stone nodded at her, as if to stamp this suggestion a definite request. The conversation went on, and no one noticed that so deftly did Fleming Stone guide it that only facts were brought out. No sooner did any one begin to formulate an opinion or theory than he skilfully turned the subject or changed the drift of the discussion. He gathered from facial expressions and manners much that he wanted to know, he learned the attitudes of the various members of the household toward each other, and he came to the conclusion that as Gray Haviland had engaged him, and as he stood as business head of the estate by authority of Carrington Loria, to Haviland should his reports be made. "Tell me more of Mr. Loria," Stone said, at last, after many matters had been discussed. "He and I are children of Miss Carrington's two sisters," said Pauline. "Our parents all died when we were young children and Aunt Lucy brought us both up. Carr, as we call him, lived with us, except for his college terms, until four years ago. Then he had an opportunity to go to Egypt and engage in excavation and ancient research work. He is absorbed in it, and has been home only twice in the four years. It was planned that my aunt and I should go to Egypt next month on a pleasure trip, and both he and we looked forward eagerly to it. Miss Frayne was to accompany us, and Mr. Haviland also." "Is it your intention to abandon the trip?" "Speaking for myself, Mr. Stone, no," and Pauline looked determined. "I cannot answer for the others, but it seems to me that such a visit to my cousin would be not only right and proper for me, but the only way for me to find relief and distraction from these dreadful scenes." "You won't go, I assume," said Stone, gently, "until the murderer of your aunt is apprehended with certainty?" "I cannot say," and suddenly Pauline flushed rosily and looked distinctly embarrassed. "Rather not!" declared Anita, with an unpleasant glance, and Fleming Stone made haste to introduce a new phase of the subject. XII ESTELLE'S STORY At the invitation of Haviland, Fleming Stone was a house guest at Garden Steps. Pauline had raised objections to this, but with Carr Loria's authority back of him, Gray had insisted, and Pauline unwillingly consented.