departed.

"Is that young man an acquaintance of yours, Maynard?" inquired Mr.
Garside.

"Yes, sir. He has been with Hafferman for several years."

"Doubtless it's all right, then. Odd, though, that Venner should have
made no mention to me of this order. Hand him the package as soon as he
comes in."

"I will, sir, at once."

Maynard had already placed the small parcel in a drawer of the huge
steel vault back of the counter, and he now resumed the work at which he
had been engaged.

Mr. Garside sauntered toward the front of the store, and presently
greeted a lady who entered.

Twenty minutes passed, and the incident of the diamonds was almost
forgotten by both employer and clerk.

Soon both were reminded of it, however, by the entrance of another
man--a smooth-featured young fellow, with pale blue eyes, a sallow
complexion, slightly pock-marked. He was of medium height, and well put
together, and was clad in a neat business suit of fashionable
appearance.

Quickly approaching Mr. Garside, who was then disengaged, he tendered