Mason’s voice was cold. “I think not,” he said. “I have never refused to accompany you. I simply asked you if you had a warrant for my arrest.”
Sergeant Holcomb dropped the receiver. “All right, Mason,” he said. “Let’s get started.”
Mason delayed as long as he dared getting his hat and coat. Then he said, “I’ll have to call my receptionist and tell her I’m going to be out.”
Sergeant Holcomb said, “Make it snappy.”
Mason called Gertie to the private office. She was still panting from her struggles, and she glared with hostility at the officers.
“Gertie, I’m being taken to the office of the district attorney for questioning. I want you to make some notes on things that are to be done in cases that are pending.”
“Make it snappy,” Sergeant Holcomb said.
Mason said, “In the case of Smith versus Smith, arrange for the taking of a deposition.”
For a moment there was a frown of perplexity on Gertie’s forehead; then with the realization that Della Street was not in the office and the knowledge that the files held no case of Smith versus Smith, she said, with a flash of comprehension, “Yes, Mr. Mason. Is there anything else?”
“Yes. In the case of Jones versus Raglund, my time is up for the filing of an answer and cross-complaint tomorrow. In the event I don’t return and am unable to file the answer and cross-complaint, arrange to get a stipulation extending my time.”