I wrote:

> Conan to Publio:
>   I want to know if a Zingaran named Beloso, or he might call
>   himself anything, is in this city. He's tall and lean and dark
>   like all his race, and it's likely he'll seek to sell a very
> rare jewel.
>
> Publio to spies (later):
>   Send your men into the markets and wharfside dives and learn if
>   one Beloso, a Zingaran, is in Messantia. Conan said he had a
> gem, which he will probably seek to dispose of.

I have come up with the following interpretation:

  1. Conan said he had a gem (reported speech).
  2. [If Conan's words be true] he will probably seek to dispose of
     it. (direct speech)

That is -- the conclusion is Publio's own, although it repeats
Conan's.

P.S.: I am writing from the e-mail client on my Raspberry Pi, and
      cannot format my messages according to FidoNet standards. Let
      me know you would rather that I had better (if I may utter
      such a monstrosity) wait till I can post in the traditional
      style.

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