as to collect ancient bronzes and marbles. Silently he opened a glass case, reserved for amateurs, and took out a little Egyptian scribe in pietra dura, of primitive workmanship, a veritable treasure! When I heard its price, I myself put it back, not without a longing glance. Then in the case I perceived the imprint in wax of the intaglio I had so much admired at Du Fau's. I recognized the nymph, the pillar, the laurel. It was beyond the possibility of a doubt.
"Did you ever have the gem?" I asked Hendel.
"Yes, I sold it last year."
"A fine gem! Where did you get it?"
"It came from the collection of Mark Delion, the financier, who five years ago committed suicide on account of a society lady.... Madame... perhaps you know her... Madame Cère.
