“I don’t see that it is any of your business who my acquaintances are.”
“In this case I choose to make it my business,” said Burt.
“You are very impudent.”
The detective laughed.
“Don’t try to play the role of a highly indignant gentleman—it won’t fit you.”
“What about this Ajeeb?”
“Oh! you choose to admit that you know him, eh?”
“Is it a crime to know him?”
“No; but those who associate with him are always mixed up in his crimes.”
“I did not cross the ocean to do any funny business.”