“I may say,” Berger went on, “that while you are in good standing at present, that has been due, in my opinion, largely to luck. I have long warned you that your methods would eventually get you into trouble.”
“I think we can dispense with any lectures,” Mason said. “My methods are my own, and my ethics are my own. I’m responsible for both. If you have anything to say, say it.”
Hamilton Berger said, “Sit down in this chair, Mason.”
Mason took the chair which was nearest to the district attorney’s desk, separated by only a few feet from that of the shorthand reporter.
“I warn you, Mason, that this interview is to be reported, and that anything you say may be used against you. You don’t need to make any statements unless you want to. If you do make them, they are to be deemed free and voluntary statements, made without coercion or promises.”
“Forget the formula,” Mason said. “Let’s get down to brass tracks. I know all the preliminaries.”
Berger nodded to Mattern. “Mr. Mattern,” he said, “I want you to tell Mr. Mason exactly what you’ve told me. You can condense it to simply hit the high spots.”
Mattern said, “What’s the use? He knows it all.”
“Nevertheless,” Berger said, “I want you to repeat it.”
Mattern raised his eyes to stare steadily at Mason, a stare of cold accusation. He said, in a strong, well-modulated voice, “I was Mr. Tidings’ secretary. Last Tuesday morning Mr. Mason called at my office.”