My first call was to the FBI Field Office in San Diego. "I need to report the recovery of stolen art," I told the receptionist.

"Hold, please." A minute later, a male agent in his twenties came on the line. He was clean-cut and athletic, just what I'd expect from the junior guy in the office. "FBI, Special Agent Powell."

"Agent Powell, I've come into possession of at least two pieces of art stolen in 1990 from a museum in Boston. I'd like to turn them in."

"If you can bring them to the field office, we'll give you a receipt and take your statement," he said as he sipped...