“Yes, sir, as a matter of fact, I have it with me now.”

 

With no sign of confusion, he produced it from his pocket. Poirot took the slim,

green-covered book and perused the entries.

 

“Ah! I perceive you have purchased £500 of National Savings Certificates this

year?”

 

“Yes, sir. I have already over a thousand pounds saved—the result of my

connection with—er—my late master, Major Ellerby. And I have had quite a little

flutter on some horses this year—very successful. If you remember, sir, a rank

outsider won the Jubilee. I was fortunate enough to back it—£20.”

 

Poirot handed him back the book.

 

“I will wish you good-morning. I believe that you have told me the truth. If you

have not—so much the worse for you, my friend.”

 

When Parker had departed, Poirot picked up his overcoat once more.

 

“Going out again?” I asked.

 

“Yes, we will pay a little visit to the good M. Hammond.”

 

“You believe Parker’s story?”