Our uniforms and a flash of the Detective’s badge gained us access to the exhibit, though it wasn’t scheduled to open until the next day.

“We will need to see the Star of Tehran,” Detective Murdoch explained to the vice-consul. “Do you have a gem appraiser on staff?”

The man frowned. “Why would we? These stones are kept under lock and key, and we have had no intrusions onto Persian soil.” Until now went unsaid.

“We’d appreciate it if you had the Star re-appraised before the exhibit tomorrow,” Detective Murdoch replied, unruffled. “And please send the results to Station House number 4.”