“You don’t want him arrested? Is that what you are saying?”
“I don’t want him arrested now.”
“My Ataman will not like that. It is interference,” snapped Shimilin.
“I cannot help what the Ataman thinks.”
Shimilin smiled and bowed. “Suppose I report your attitude to the Ataman himself?”
“I would consider that wisdom on your part,” said Peter. “There are some aspects to this case which I cannot discuss now. That is why I suggested delay.”
Shimilin clicked his heels and walked straight to the hall door. He opened it, and turned. “I will submit your proposal to the Ataman—if you are willing to take the consequence.”
“Thank you,” said Peter, bowing in dismissal. “You are very kind.”
“And,” continued Shimilin, “I shall hold you responsible that Michael Kirsakoff is here when I return.”
Shimilin shut the door with a quick jerk, suggestive of the closing of the jaws of a great trap.