As Gorse did not seem likely to reply to the question, as thus put, Nick went at it in another way. He said:
“I’ll put it to you in this shape: Did you take in any silverware last night?”
Gorse gave the questioner a swift look of suspicion.
“What are you driving at?”
Calmly and in an offhand tone came the reply:
“As I have told you, it is optional with yourself whether or not you answer my questions.”
“Well, suppose that I admit having taken in some silverware?”
“Then the next question is: Who brought it?”
“That I won’t tell.”
The detective coolly said: