He seems to have been told off for that sort of duty.

When I want an address in a hurry, I can always get it from him.

Of course, I know how to manage our relations.
I haven't seen him to speak to three times in the last two years.

I drop him a line, unsigned, and he answers me in the same way at my private address." From time to time the Assistant Commissioner gave an almost imperceptible nod.

The Chief Inspector added that he did not suppose Mr Verloc to be deep in the confidence of the prominent members of the Revolutionary International Council, but that he was generally trusted of that there could be no doubt.