Raymond’s don’t fit either, doctor.”

 

“What about those of Captain Ralph Paton?” asked Poirot quietly.

 

I felt a secret admiration for the way he took the bull by the horns. I saw a

look of respect creep into the inspector’s eye.

 

“I see you don’t let the grass grow under your feet, Mr. Poirot. It will be a

pleasure to work with you, I’m sure. We’re going to take that young gentleman’s

fingerprints as soon as we can lay hands upon him.”

 

“I can’t help thinking you’re mistaken, inspector,” said Colonel Melrose warmly.

“I’ve known Ralph Paton from a boy upward. He’d never stoop to murder.”

 

“Maybe not,” said the inspector tonelessly.

 

“What have you got against him?” I asked.

 

“Went out just on nine o’clock last night. Was seen in neighborhood of Fernly

Park somewhere about nine-thirty. Not been seen since. Believed to be in serious

money difficulties. I’ve got a pair of his shoes here—shoes with rubber studs in

them. He had two pairs, almost exactly alike. I’m going up now to compare them

with those footmarks. The constable is up there seeing that no one tampers with

them.”