"What makes you think my lovely staff is acting?" he asked with a tilt of his head. Then, after a brief pause, he smiled. "Well, I could spend all evening explaining our methods and why we're doing what we do, but I won't bore you. Besides, I'm sure there are more pressing things to discuss."

Which was obvious enough by the empty, half-formed threat thrown at him. Instead of laughing, though, the Head Doctor raised his eyebrows with mock surprise.

"Now, now, Mr. Fitzherbert," he said in an oddly paternal voice, "don't you think it would be better to avoid such a nasty confrontation in the first place? In fact, if you cooperate me, I'll even offer a way for you to help her."