Exactly facing him, in the spot where the jewels had been, was a small black box.

He brought it to the table and removed the lid.

Inside was a sheet of paper, which he quickly unfolded.
They all three read the few lines together:-- "Pitted against the inherited cunning of the ages, you have no chance.

I will take compassion upon you.

Look in the right-hand drawer of your desk." Underneath appeared the signature of the Hands.