Ralph will be all right. I’ve got hold of the most wonderful detective in the

world, and he’s going to find out all about it.”

 

For some time I had felt uneasy as to our position. We were not exactly

eavesdropping, since the two in the garden below had only to lift their heads to

see us. Nevertheless, I should have drawn attention to our presence before now,

had not my companion put a warning pressure on my arm. Clearly he wished me to

remain silent.

 

But now he rose briskly to his feet, clearing his throat.

 

“I demand pardon,” he cried. “I cannot allow mademoiselle thus extravagantly to

compliment me, and not draw attention to my presence.

 

They say the listener hears no good of himself, but that is not the case this

time. To spare my blushes, I must join you and apologize.”

 

He hurried down the path with me close behind him, and joined the others by the

pond.

 

“This is M. Hercule Poirot,” said Flora. “I expect you’ve heard of him.”

 

Poirot bowed.

 

“I know Major Blunt by reputation,” he said politely. “I am glad to have