Chapter 4

The dealer agreed to meet me before noon.

He examined the cello beneath a bright lamp, checking the bridge, strings, and the initials Conrad had carved into the wood.

"This is a remarkable instrument," he said. "Why are you selling it in such a hurry?"

"I need the money today."

His offer was far below its value.

"You could get much more if you gave me time to find the right buyer."

"I don't have time."

"The certificate also lists Conrad Vale as the original purchaser. I'll need to verify that the instrument wasn't reported as part of a shared…