The fact is, they desire to arrest me." "Arrest you!" exclaimed the Judge.
"Yes, arrest me," Mr.Pyecroft went on, easily, yet under his easy words trying to suggest certain definite contingencies.

"That would be bad enough in itself.

But, as you know, Judge Harvey, my arrest would unfortunately but necessarily involve the arrest of several other quite innocent persons--bring about a great public scandal--and create a situation that would be deplorable in every particular.

You see that, Judge ?" Judge Harvey got the covered meaning.
"I see.

But what do they want to arrest you for ?" "On a most absurd charge," answered Mr.Pyecroft, smiling,--but eyes straight into Judge Harvey's eyes.