“I doubt if they would think so!” Lord Mere retorted. “But, of course, I will do my very best, Jennie, and while I have to leave for Florence, you will just have to pray for my success.”
“I will pray and pray!” Jennie promised, “And if you do bring it back I will give St. Anthony, or whoever is the Saint of Stolen Goods, an enormous thank offering I cannot afford!”
Lord Mere laughed.
“We shall certainly need the Saints on our side,” he said, “because, if the Prince has indeed stolen your necklace, there must be a very good reason for it, which I am quite certain he will not admit except under extreme pressure.”
*
When his sister had left after thanking him profusely and telling him that her whole future happiness depended on him. Lord Mere sent for his secretary.
He told Mr. Barringt
