“While you talked?” 

 Mr. Durand bowed. 

 “And looked at the diamond?” 

 Mr. Durand bowed for the second time. 

 “Had you ever seen so fine a diamond before?” 

 “No.” 

 “Yet you deal in precious stones?” 

 “That is my business.” 

 “And are regarded as a judge of them?” 

 “I have that reputation.” 

 “Mr. Durand, would you know this diamond if you saw it?” 

 “I certainly should.” 

 “The setting was an uncommon one, I hear.” 

 “Quite an unusual one.” 

 The inspector opened his hand. 

 “Is this the article?” 

 “Good God! Where—” 

 “Don’t you know?” 

 “I do not.” 

 The inspector eyed him gravely. 

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