You shouldn't leave me to puzzle things out for myself like this.

Really, I am surprised." He paused, then added smoothly: "I need scarcely tell you that this conversation is altogether unofficial." These words were far from pacifying the Chief Inspector.

The indignation of a betrayed tight-rope performer was strong within him.

In his pride of a trusted servant he was affected by the assurance that the rope was not shaken for the purpose of breaking his neck, as by an exhibition of impudence.

As if anybody were afraid! Assistant Commissioners come and go, but a valuable Chief Inspector is not an ephemeral office phenomenon.
He was not afraid of getting a broken neck.