'Very good, sir!
Paul was led in.
'I understand you wish to continue cellular labour instead of availing yourself of the privilege of working in association. Why is that?
'I find it so much more interesting, sir, said Paul.
'It's a most irregular suggestion, said the Chief Warder. 'Privileges can only be forfeited by a breach of the regulations witnessed and attested by two officers. Standing Orders are most emphatic on the subject.
'I wonder whether you have narcissistic tendencies? said the Governor. 'The Home Office has not as yet come to any decision about my application for a staff psychoanalyst.
'Put him in the observation cell, said the Chief Warder. 'That brings out any insanity. I've known several cases of men you could hardly have told were mad ‑ just eccentric, you know ‑ who've been put on observation, and after a few days they've been raving lunatics. Colond MacAdder was a great believer in the observation cells.
'Did you lead a very lonely life before conviction? Perhaps you were a shepherd or a lighthouse‑keeper, or something of the kind?
'No, sir.
'Most curious. Well, I will consider your case and give you my answer later.