But he made one
suggestion.
"Your best plan," he said suggestively, "is to write a
description of Vasa--who, by the way, has probably changed his
name--and hand it to the police, with the promise of a reward if
he is found."
"I am very poor, senor. Surely the Professor here--"
"I can offer nothing," said Braddock quickly, "as I am quite as
poor as you are, if not more so, Sir Frank might help," he added
sarcastically.
"I shall not ask," said Don Pedro loftily. "If Sir Frank chooses
to become my son-in-law by purchasing back my royal ancestor, to
which you have no right, I am willing that it should be so. But,
poor as I am, I shall offer a reward myself, since the honor of
the De Gayangoses is involved in this matter. What reward do you
suggest, Mr. Hope?"
"Five hundred pounds," said the Professor quickly.
"Too much," said Hope sharply--"far too much. Make the reward
one hundred pounds, Don Pedro. That is enough to tempt many a
man."
The Peruvian bowed and noted down the amount.
"I shall go at once to Pierside and see Inspector Date, who had
to do with the inquest," he remarked. "Meanwhile, Professor,
please do not desecrate my royal ancestor's body more than you
can help.
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