Page:Rowland--The closing net.djvu/123

Rh receive professional courtesies from his former colleagues."

"There is a difference," I answered, "between, professional courtesy and appreciation for a service rendered. However, that incident is closed. What I am now protesting against is the stealing of the string of pearls belonging to Madame Cuttynge."

Chu-Chu's slaty eyes hardened. "That is a matter," said he, "of which I have just heard for the first time. Whatever my views in regard to yourself, Mr. Clamart, I should never think of breaking my faith with our respected Chief."

He bowed to Ivan.

"Far be it from me," I answered, "to accuse M. de Maxeville of any such intention as that. When it reaches a point where those of us who are outside the law can no longer trust one another, a man might better retire from the field."

"Precisely my own idea," said Chu-Chu. "Of course, so far as you are concerned, Mr. Clamart, the situation is very different. One would never think of playing pranks upon a colleague. But, as I see it, the minute you gave up your profession you lost the right to expect or demand any other treatment than that of an outsider. As for the service which you claim to have rendered us in grappling with the agent, I, for my part, fail to acknowledge any obligation—unless it be on the part of the agent, whose life you assuredly saved. If you had not grappled with him I would have killed him myself." His slaty eyes rested on mine with a cold glitter. "I think," said he, "that our Chief is inclined to over-value your performance. Personally,