[He allows the statement and echoed question to remain in the air for a moment, as if to let them sink in properly.]

... I'm certain you're aware that as a nobleman and a high-ranking member of the judiciary, it is necessary for me to have a number of... sources to assist me in staying abreast of important events.

[You know. "Sources."]

While neither of those particular roles are relevant here, I nevertheless find myself in need of information. Thus I would like to offer you a business proposal, of sorts.

[It kind of sounds like he's not going to take no for an answer—a polite insistence, sure, but still...]