"I suppose, in one sense, that is true.

But the matter has its personal element as well." "I must insist," said Wilton Barnstable, "that Logan Black is my prisoner." Cleggett was silent a moment.

Then he said firmly: "Mr.Barnstable, it is painful to me to have to remind you of it, but your attitude forces me to an equal directness.

The fact that Logan Black is now a captive is due to his efforts to recover certain evidence which may be used against him.

This evidence I discovered and defended, and this evidence I now hold in my possession." Wilton Barnstable was about to retort, perhaps heatedly, but Cleggett, generous even while determined to have his own way, hastened to add: "Do not think, Mr.Barnstable, that I minimize your work, or your assistance--but, after all, what am I demanding that is unreasonable?
If Logan Black dies by my hand, are not the ends of justice served as well as if he died in the electric chair?
And if I fall, the law may still take its course." Loge had listened to this speech attentively.