began about three years ago?"

"Yes, I think they began about three years ago in August."

"Let me see. It was in the month of August, three years ago, that
your father, after receiving a threatening letter like the one he
received last night, was the victim of a burglary?" said M. Formery.

"Yes, it was--the scoundrels!" cried the millionaire fiercely.

"Well, it would be interesting to know which of your servants
entered your service three years ago," said M. Formery.

"Victoire has only been with us a year at the outside," said
Germaine.

"Only a year?" said M. Formery quickly, with an air of some
vexation. He paused and added, "Exactly--exactly. And what was the
nature of the last theft of which you were the victim?"

"It was a pearl brooch--not unlike the pendant which his Grace gave
me yesterday," said Germaine.

"Would you mind showing me that pendant? I should like to see it,"
said M. Formery.

"Certainly--show it to him, Jacques. You have it, haven't you?" said
Germaine, turning to the Duke.

"Me? No. How should I have it?" said the Duke in some surprise.