the facts faithfully and exactly—though you have shown yourself becomingly

reticent as to your own share in them.”

 

“And it has helped you?”

 

“Yes. I may say that it has helped me considerably. Come, we must go over to my

house and set the stage for my little performance.”

 

Caroline was in the hall. I think she hoped that she might be invited to

accompany us. Poirot dealt with the situation tactfully.

 

“I should much like to have had you present, mademoiselle,” he said regretfully,

“but at this juncture it would not be wise. See you, all these people to-night

are suspects. Amongst them, I shall find the person who killed Mr. Ackroyd.”

 

“You really believe that?” I said incredulously.

 

“I see that you do not,” said Poirot dryly. “Not yet do you appreciate Hercule

Poirot at his true worth.”

 

At that minute Ursula came down the staircase.

 

“You are ready, my child?” said Poirot. “That is good. We will go to my house

together. Mademoiselle Caroline, believe me, I do everything possible to render

you service. Good-evening.”