The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

original wizard, Adela--the marvel of the century-all

your troubles smoothed out while you

wait! What? Didn't you know? You must have heard about him? Haven't you read his advertisements? 'Are you in trouble? Consult Mr.

Parker Pyne.' There's just nothing he can't do.

Husbands and wives flying at each other's throats

and he brings 'em together--if you've lost interest

in life he giv

es you the most thrilling adventures.

As I say the man's just a wizard!"

It went on a good deal longer--Mr. Parker

Pyne at intervals making modest disclaimers. He

PROBLEM AT POLLENSA BAY

87

disliked the look that Mrs. Chester turned upon

him. He disliked even more seeing her return

along the beach in close confabulation with the

garrulous singer of his praises.

The climax came quicker than he expected. That

evening, after coffee, Mrs. Chester said abruptly,

"Will you come into the little salon, Mr. Pyne.

There is something I want to say to you."

He could but bow and submit.

Mrs. Chester's self-control had been wehring

thin--as the door of the little salon closed behind

them, it snapped. She sat down and burst into

tears.

"My boy, Mr. Parker Pyne. You must save

him. We must save him. It's breaking my heart!"

"My dear lady, as a mere outsider--"

"Nina Wycherley says you can do anything. She