" The business was established before I became connected with it, sir; nor is it for you to institute an inquiry of that kind, " he answered, not raising his voice, but speaking with quick defiantness.

“先生，这家公司是在我涉足之前就成立的；你也无权进行那种调查，”他回答说，声音没有提高，但语气很快就带有挑衅意味。