He manifestly objected to communicate with Mr Boffin's solicitor.

Two or three times, when there was some slight occasion for his doing so, he transferred the task to Mr Boffin; and his evasion of it soon became so curiously apparent, that Mr Boffin spoke to him on the subject of his reluctance.
'It is so,' the Secretary admitted.

'I would rather not.' Had he any personal objection to Mr Lightwood?
'I don't know him.' Had he suffered from law-suits?
'Not more than other men,' was his short answer.
Was he prejudiced against the race of lawyers?
'No.

But while I am in your employment, sir, I would rather be excused from going between the lawyer and the client.

Of course if you press it, Mr Boffin, I am ready to comply.