Collins and the lawyer exchanged questioning glances.

What new trick was this detective about to play?
The positive tone employed by Britz in announcing that he had hooked his fish, worried them.

The provoking coolness of the detective aggravated them beyond measure.
"Evidently you are preparing to draw in a whole netful of fish," said Luckstone experimentally.
"I didn't cast a net," Britz informed him.

"I threw out single lines.

Do you wish to be present when I draw them in ?" "I shall be glad to be there," the lawyer replied.
"And if Mr.Collins will also promise to be on hand I can save him the discomforts of a Headquarters' cell," said Britz.
"Then Mr.Collins is not the fish you are after ?" asked Luckstone.
"You are better acquainted with the game in this criminal aquarium than I am," retorted Britz.
"Well, if you are through with Mr.Collins, I should like a few minutes of private conversation with him," said the lawyer.
"I shall refrain from arresting Mr.Collins only on condition that he remain in custody of one of my men.