"Yes. But it's of no consequence, not really," He replaces the lid on the jar. "There are other—"

He breaks off, aware suddenly that there's something in his waistcoat pocket, something creating a small bulge next to his watch. He reaches into the pocket and pulls out a small piece of carved walrus ivory, not much bigger than two of a man's fingers together. It has a bear's body, an elongated neck, and an odd, flattened face.

"Good Lord," he murmurs.