"I should not have dreamt of consulting you."
"Possibly not. Still, I happen to know something of Mr Gilbert personally, and had you consulted me I should have warned you that, in all human probability, the result would be exactly what it has turned out to be."
"Result? Has anything resulted?"
"Something has--Mr Gilbert has withdrawn from the case."
"Withdrawn from the case! What do you mean?"
"Here is the £500 which you sent him. He has requested me to hand it back to you."
"A cheque for £500? Mr Morice, I don't understand! Why has Mr Gilbert returned me this?"
"I will tell you plainly. We are, both of us, in a position in which plainness is the only possible course."
"Well, tell me--don't stand choosing your words--tell me plainly! Why has Mr Gilbert sent me back my cheque through you?"
"Because Jim Baker conveyed the impression to his mind that he--Jim--saw you commit the crime with which he stands charged."