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Fane on occasion of evening party? Aside from diamond pin fastening orchids, I mean?”

“I think so, sir.”

“Will you come with me, please?”

Leaving the others in the drawing-room, he led the maid across the moonlit lawn in the direction of the pavilion. They went in, and Anna lost her composure for a moment at sight of Shelah Fane. She gave a strangled little cry.

“Kindly conduct thorough search,” Chan said to her, “and inform me if all jewelry is at present time in place.”

Anna nodded without speaking. The coroner came over to greet Chan.

“I’ve made my examination,” he said. “This is a pretty big thing, Charlie. I’d better send somebody to help you out.”

Chan smiled. “I have Kashimo,” he answered. “What more could any man ask? Tell Chief I will report entire matter to him at earliest convenience.” They stepped out on the lanai of the pavilion, and at the same moment Kashimo crept like a correspondence-school sleuth from a cluster of bushes at the corner of the building.

“Charlie—come quick,” he whispered hoarsely.

“Kashimo has discovered essential clue,” Charlie said. “Please join us, Mr. Coroner.”

They followed the Japanese through the bushes and out upon a public beach that bounded the property on the right. On that side of the pavilion, which stood flush with the dividing line, was a single window. Kashimo led them to this, and swept a flash-light over the sand.