“No, indeed, sir. It was a great surprise to me. Such a regular gentleman in all

his habits.”

 

“How much did you overhear?”

 

“Not very much, sir. There seemed what I might call a spite against me.

 

Of course I had to attend to my duties in the pantry. And when I did creep along

once or twice to the study it was no use. The first time Dr. Sheppard came out

and almost caught me in the act, and another time Mr. Raymond passed me in the

big hall and went that way, so I knew it was no use; and when I went with the

tray, Miss Flora headed me off.”

 

Poirot stared for a long time at the man, as if to test his sincerity.

 

Parker returned his gaze earnestly.

 

“I hope you believe me, sir. I’ve been afraid all along the police would rake up

that old business with Major Ellerby and be suspicious of me in consequence.”

 

“_Eh bien_,” said Poirot at last. “I am disposed to believe you. But there is

one thing I must request of you—to show me your bank-book. You have a bank-book,

I presume?”