Page 551 of 657

"When we were taking coffee in the drawing-room that night after

dinner, I told Arthur and Mary my experience, and of the precious

treasure which we had under our roof, suppressing only the name

of my client. Lucy Parr, who had brought in the coffee, had, I am

sure, left the room; but I cannot swear that the door was closed.

Mary and Arthur were much interested and wished to see the famous

coronet, but I thought it better not to disturb it.

"'Where have you put it?' asked Arthur.

"'In my own bureau.'

"'Well, I hope to goodness the house won't be burgled during the

night.' said he.

"'It is locked up,' I answered.

"'Oh, any old key will fit that bureau. When I was a youngster I

have opened it myself with the key of the box-room cupboard.'

"He often had a wild way of talking, so that I thought little of

what he said. He followed me to my room, however, that night with

a very grave face.

"'Look here, dad,' said he with his eyes cast down, 'can you let

me have £ 200?'