“Mr. Ackroyd’s family must, of course, do what they see fit,” said Colonel

Melrose. “But we cannot have the official investigation hampered in any way. I

know M. Poirot’s great reputation, of course,” he added courteously.

 

“The police can’t advertise themselves, worse luck,” said Raglan.

 

It was Poirot who saved the situation.

 

“It is true that I have retired from the world,” he said. “I never intended to

take up a case again. Above all things, I have a horror of publicity. I must

beg, that in the case of my being able to contribute something to the solution

of the mystery, my name may not be mentioned.”

 

Inspector Raglan’s face lightened a little.

 

“I’ve heard of some very remarkable successes of yours,” observed the colonel,

thawing.

 

“I have had much experience,” said Poirot quietly. “But most of my successes

have been obtained by the aid of the police. I admire enormously your English

police. If Inspector Raglan permits me to assist him, I shall be both honored

and flattered.”

 

The inspector’s countenance became still more gracious.