CHAPTER III

“You must understand, monsieur,” he said, “that I have always—that is, for many years—enjoyed a great reputation as an artist in this sort of work, of which you have one of my best specimens in your possession. Therefore, I have been sought after. My work can be seen in the museums and collections of the great cities in Europe. Naturally then, I am recommended—as in the present case—by M. Virlet. All the same, monsieur, I do not know who it was that sent this Englishman who came to me about twelve months ago, and a…