Sounds of traffic from the
Embankment penetrated dimly to the room of the Assistant Commissioner;
ringing of tram bells and that vague sustained noise which is created
by the whirring of countless wheels along hard pavements. Finally:
"You have selected a curious moment to retire, Chief Inspector," said
the Assistant Commissioner. "Your prospects were never better. No
doubt you have considered the question of your pension?"
"I know what I'm giving up, sir," replied Kerry.
The Assistant Commissioner slowly revolved in his chair and gazed
sadly at the speaker. Chief Inspector Kerry met his glance with that
fearless, unflinching stare which lent him so formidable an
appearance.
"You might care to favor me with some explanation which I can lay
before the Chief Commissioner?"
Kerry snapped his white teeth together viciously.
"May I take it, sir, that you accept my resignation?"
"Certainly not. I will place it before the responsible authority. I
can do no more."
"Without disrespect, sir, I want to speak to you as man to man. As a
private citizen I could do it. As your subordinate I can't."
The Assistant Commissioner sighed, stroking his neatly brushed hair
with one large hand.
"Equally without disrespect, Chief Inspector," he murmured, "it is
news for me to learn that you have ever refrained from speaking your
mind either in my presence or in the presence of any man.
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