The butler spoke to Raymond.

 

“Mr. Hammond has just arrived, sir,” he said. “He is anxious to know if he can

be of any service, and he would be glad to have a word with you.”

 

“I’ll come at once,” said the young man. He hurried out. Poirot looked

inquiringly at the chief constable.

 

“The family solicitor, M. Poirot,” said the latter.

 

“It is a busy time for this young M. Raymond,” murmured M. Poirot. “He has the

air efficient, that one.”

 

“I believe Mr. Ackroyd considered him a most able secretary.”

 

“He has been here—how long?”

 

“Just on two years, I fancy.”

 

“His duties he fulfills punctiliously. Of that I am sure. In what manner does he

amuse himself? Does he go in for _le sport_?”

 

“Private secretaries haven’t much time for that sort of thing,” said Colonel

Melrose, smiling. “Raymond plays golf, I believe. And tennis in the summer