My firm procured for me this commission, as they are very anxious to recover the lost pearls." "Why ?" "Well, to be frank, sir, the countess still owes our firm a large sum for purchases.

She had almost her entire fortune tied up in that collection, and unless it is recovered--." "I can well appreciate the anxiety of your firm.

But aside from that, Mr.
Le Drieux, I suppose a big reward has been offered ?" "Not big; just a fair amount.

It will repay me, quite handsomely, for my trouble in this affair; but, of course, my firm gets half of the reward." "They are not too generous.

You deserve it all." "Thank you.