"But—" began the detective.
"One moment," she said, interrupting him. "Before I give you this confidence I wish to ask one question."
"Mrs. Kildair, I must remind you," said McKenna warily, "that I am engaged in the interests of Mr. Beecher, and can do nothing without his permission."
"Are you representing any one besides Mr. Beecher?" she said, ignoring his objection.
"What do you mean?" he said carefully, to gain time.
"Are you, in this particular case, representing Mr. Slade?" she said directly.
"I have never said that I was employed by him, Mrs. Kildair," he said slowly, comprehending now the full purpose of her opening question.
"Mr. Slade has told me himself of your work in connection with the Gray Fox Mines, the Farmers' and Travelers' Bank, and the more personal affair of your recovery of his letters from a Miss Minna Weston. You see, I am informed."
"I have worked for Mr. Slade," said McKenna.
"And are you doing so now?" she asked sharply.