“‘Whoever says so is guilty of an infamous falsehood.’
“‘Possibly,’ I replied. ‘By the way, have you seen your brother lately?’
“‘My—my brother?’ he stammered.
“‘Yes, the engineer.’
“‘Who are you,’ he cried, ‘and why do you ask me these questions?’
“‘I am a detective, and I ask you these questions in order that Justice may vindicate her character and reputation for impartiality.’
“‘A detective,’ he repeated slowly.
“‘I think I said so.’
“‘Why, I should as soon have thought of seeing a flying fish or a sea-serpent with a ring through its nose.’
“‘You have not answered my question respecting your brother yet?’