There was a touch of sarcasm in the last two words which did not escape his hearer, but the reference to a criminal career had cut much deeper.
“What do you mean?” he demanded. “What right have you to speak to me in this way?”
“Now don’t get angry,” said Graves. “You lost your temper here once before, and while I don’t say I blame you, the rough-house with Elton didn’t improve your case any. Fact is, if you can’t see it for yourself, that I’m not here to sell goods, but to watch you!”
“Watch me?” exclaimed Burton, straightening up and taking in the other man at a glance as though measuring him physically. “Then you’re a——”
“A detective. Yes.”
“Well, what have you found? Can you add anything to a bunch of keys and a suspicion?”
“I haven’t found much yet, but I expect to shortly. That’s why I wanted to speak to you now. I have a warrant to search your room and personal belongings, and I propose to do so to-day. It’s altogether unprofessional in me to tip you off, but, hang it, I like you, Burton, and if there’s any changes you want to make down there slip away and get them done, and I won’t be down for half-an-hour.”
“Changes? What changes should I want to make? Your words are an insult, Graves, and if it were not for your evident sincerity I’d start making the changes right here and now. No, I want no changes! Bring all the world along, and let them see me searched in public.”
“You carry it with a high hand, my young friend,” said Graves. “However, I can do no more than warn you. Shall we go now? There should be at least one other present.”
“Mr. Gardiner has just gone down to Goode’s with some butter. We will detain him as a witness, if you think it necessary,” was Burton’s reply; “come, I am ready.”