counsel mueller. >> correct. >> what was the subject of the conversation? >> i'm not going to speak to that. >> did the special counsel tell you not to speak about these things? >> senator, i cooperated with multiple investigations while the investigation continues. i think that's the appropriate way to approach it. you should know and no one here today should take away any because of the fact i don't want to speak, there should be no negative inferences with respect to anything -- or positive inferences -- about the fact i think it is most appropriate that while the investigations continue, i not speak to the conversations i've had with the various investigative bodies. >> i'm sure if i asked director mueller, i mean, special counsel mueller a simple question, whether you were told you couldn't, i don't think he would say you couldn't, so it is your choice that you're not seeking to do so. and for me, these questions being answered truthfully in a forth coming way are critically important. it goes to the essence of how you approach one of the most critical issues that we have. and your unwillingness to speak to it is troubling to me.