you want those particular diamonds? I think you referred to one."

A slight tinge of red appeared in Venner's cheeks when he replied, a
change which by no means escaped Nick's observation.

"I wanted the stones, or then thought I might, for a customer who
contemplated giving me an order for a valuable diamond cross, to be worn
upon the stage. We happen to have in stock no diamonds perfectly adapted
to her requirements, and so I called upon Hafferman to learn if he could
supply me."

"Who is the customer, Mr. Venner?"

"I do not see how her identity can be at all essential to the
investigation of this affair, yet I have no objection to disclosing it,"
said Venner, frowning slightly.

"Why demur over it, then?" demanded Nick, bluntly.

"Only because of an aversion to bringing the lady into the case, of
which she, of course, knows nothing," retorted Venner. "I expected the
order from Señora Cervera, the Spanish dancer."

"Ah! Is she not a member of the Mammoth Vaudeville Troupe, which has
been playing here to packed houses for several months?"

"She is, yes."

"I have heard that she makes a great display of diamonds."