For example," he explained carefully, "we are not tender with our prisoners, if we think that by applying a little pressure to them we can assist the process of justice." "What do you mean ?" asked Milburgh, a grisly thought dawning upon his mind.
"In Britain--and in America too, I understand--though the Americans are much more enlightened on this subject--when you arrest a member of a gang you are content with cross-examining him and giving him full scope for the exercise of his inventive power.

You ask him questions and go on asking and asking, and you do not know whether he is lying or telling the truth." Mr.Milburgh began to breathe heavily.
"Has that idea sunk into your mind ?" asked Ling Chu.
"I don't know what you mean," said Mr.Milburgh in a quavering voice.
"All I know is that you are committing a most----" Ling Chu stopped him with a gesture.
"I am perfectly well aware of what I am doing," he said.

"Now listen to me.

A week or so ago, Mr.Thornton Lyne, your employer, was found dead in Hyde Park.

He was dressed in his shirt and trousers, and about his body, in an endeavour to stanch the wound, somebody had wrapped a silk night-dress.