In her handbag was the invitation to the ball, and also the letter she had written in the Princess's name accepting it, which latter she posted in Meran.

In due course she reached London, and presented herself to the editor of the _Daily Bugle_.
"Well, Miss Baxter," he said, "you have been extraordinarily successful in solving the diamond mystery, and I congratulate you.

My letter reached you, I suppose.

Have you given any thought to the problem that now confronts us?
Can you get us a full report of the Duchess of Chiselhurst's ball, written so convincingly that all the guests who read it will know that the writer was present ?" "It is entirely a question of money, Mr.Hardwick." "Most things are.

Well, we are prepared to spend money to get just what we want." "How much ?" "Whatever is necessary." "That's vague.