The High Window (Philip Marlowe, #3)

by Raymond Chandler

“Until you guys own your own souls you don’t own mine. Until you guys can be trusted every time and always, in all times and conditions, to seek the truth out and find it and let the chips fall where they may—until that time comes, I have a right to listen to my conscience, and protect my client the best way I can. Until I’m sure you won’t do him more harm than you’ll do the truth good. Or until I’m hauled before somebody that can make me talk.”

Inside was a small windowless anteroom on the furnishings of which a great deal of expense had been spared.