The man with the truncheon seemed willing to trust a great deal to them, whether in regard to attack or defence.
“Well, you’re awake, my gentleman,” said the man with the truncheon.
The speech seemed a poor enough accompaniment to such a show of strength, aggressive or defensive, as was the result of the muster in the shed.
“Yes, I believe I’m awake,” said Harold. “Is the morning far advanced?”
“That’s as may be,” said the truncheon-holder, shrewdly, and after a pause of considerable duration.
“You’re not the man to compromise yourself by a hasty statement,” said Harold.
“No,” said the man, after another pause.
“May I ask what is the meaning of this rather imposing demonstration?” said Harold.
“Ay, you may, maybe,” replied the man. “But it’s my business to tell you that—” here he paused and inflated his lungs and person generally— “that all you say now will be used as evidence against you.”
“That’s very official,” said Harold. “Does it mean that you’re a constable?”