But then you, colonel, are a hinspector of police, which I take to be more than merely human; and as to the gentlemen here, a gentleman ain't a man--leastways not a common man--the common man bein' but the slave wot feeds and clothes the gentleman beyond the common." "Come," said the inspector, unable to follow these observations, "you are a clever dodger, but you can't dodge me.

Have you any statement to make with reference to the lady that was last seen in your company ?" "Take a statement about a lady!" said Smilash indignantly.

"Far be the thought from my mind!" "What have you done with her ?" said Agatha, impetuously.

"Don't be silly." "You're not bound to answer that, you know," said the inspector, a little put out by Agatha's taking advantage of her irresponsible unofficial position to come so directly to the point.

"You may if you like, though.