Barton Russell gives a party. You know
him? Big Business, clean-shaven American--full
of pep and personality. His wife was Pauline's
sister."
"And who else is there at this party?"
"You'll meet 'em in a minute when the music
stops. There's Lola Valdez--you know, the South
YELLOW IRIS
109
American dancer in the new show at the Metro-pole,
and there's Stephen Carter. D'you know
Carter--he's in the diplomatic service. Very hush-hush.
Known as silent Stephen. Sort of man who
says, 'I am not at liberty to state, etc., etc.' Hullo,
here they come."
Poirot rose. He was introduced to Barton
Russell, to Stephen Carter, to Sefiora Lola Valdez,
a dark and luscious creature, and to Pauline
Weatherby, very young, very fair, with eyes like
cornflowers.
Barton Russell said:
"What, is this the great M. Hercule Poirot? I
am indeed pleased to meet you, sir. Won't you sit
down and join us? That is, unless--"
Tony Chapell broke in.
"He's got an appointment with a body, I be-lieve,
or is it an absconding financier, or the Rajah
of Borrioboolagah's great ruby?"
"Ah, my friend, do you think I am never off
duty? Can I not, for once, seek only to amuse