"It is best. Between men of the world these little affairs are easily understood. The matter is now made plain, I think? You have no more to ask me?"
"At the moment, I haven't," said Hemingway. "But I wouldn't like you to run away with the idea that telling me these highly remarkable plans of yours has cleared you, sir, because it hasn't. Do you use a nail-file?"
The suddenness of the question startled the Prince. He replied evasively: "I do not know why you should ask!"
"No, nor I don't know why you shouldn't answer," said the Inspector.
The Prince flushed! "Let me tell you, I do not like your manner!"
"Well, since we're being so nice and open," retorted the Inspector, "I don't mind telling you that I don't like your story, sir. You'd better consider your position."
The Prince said uneasily: "You ask me what I do not understand. Certainly I use a nail-file! Why should I not tell you, since you are so curious?"
"Don't happen to have lost one lately, do you, sir?"
"No!"
"Ah, well!" said the Inspector. "Then I won't detain you any longer."