"Ahh." He held up his finger. "I had my source find out their manufacturer, then I called the company as a prospective buyer and queried the sales representative about the unit's shortcomings compared to more expensive models. His sales pitch was quite enlightening. The Gallery's units are sensitive to a positive weight, usually five to ten pounds. They are programmed to trigger the alarm if that five to ten-pound burden is removed. But they won't trigger the alarm if they are burdened with more weight. This is how they can be overcome." He drew on the edge of the floor plan as he spoke. "We simply fashion a noose out of fishing line and drape it behind the frame. Once on the mount, you simply attach a ten-pound weight to the line and carefully remove the painting from the mount."

"It's so simple it's ingenious," I said.

"Thank you."

"What's next?" I asked.

"The painting needs to be taken out of the frame. It's held in place with two small nails in each inside corner. They could be easily removed with a small hammer carried in your backpack. When you have it out, cut the canvas along the back side of the internal stretch frame. If you cut it so, it will leave enough material for me to have it re-stretched to its normal size. After that, you roll it up so that the painted surface is on the inside and you leave."

"I'm sure the guards are just going to let me walk right out the front door," I said sarcastically. "Why couldn't I spend the night in the trash can?"

"I had thought about that, but it won't work. A new shift of guards comes on at midnight. They empty the trash and mop the floors just before the Gallery reopens.

"Leaving is going to be the trickiest part because no matter how it's done you will set off the alarm when you exit the building. The upside is that you will already have the piece. It doesn't really make much difference, but I think this door might be best," he said, pointing to the floor plan. "It exits to the alley. From there, all you have to do is get to the harbor. I'll have a boat and crew ready to take you to that beach," he said, pointing out the living room window to the sea.

"What about the two million?" I asked.

"What about it? An account will be opened for you upon your confirmation. When I receive the painting I will have Diltz transfer the money to you. You can call to confirm it if you want."

I nodded slowly. "Your plan seems easy, too easy for the two million dollar price tag attached to it."

"Well, of course, you would think so. The risks for you aren't the same as those for a normal person, but that doesn't mean you should do it for any less."