"No doubt of it," Nick readily admitted. "Chick."

"Yes, Nick."

"Take a carriage and go at once and interview Hafferman. See what you
can learn from him. Get the written order received by him, and bring it
here. Have a look at young Boyden, and see what you make of him. Also
get the written signature of Mr. Hafferman, and that of each person
employed in his store. Understand?"

"Sure thing!" nodded Chick, already seeing clearly the line Nick's
investigation was taking, though neither Venner nor his partner yet
perceived it. "I will return as quickly as possible."

"You will find me here," nodded Nick. "Wait a moment!"

"Well?"

"Also get a description of the party who delivered the written order at
Hafferman's store. Inquire what he said at the time, and why he did not
attempt securing the diamonds then and there."

"Probably he was not known there, and knew he could not get them,"
observed Venner, by way of explanation.

Nick made no reply to this, however, and Chick hurriedly departed.