The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

The General himself did not notice the smiles.

He glanced at his watch, rose and remarked:

"Exercise. Got to keep oneself fit on a boat," and

passed out through the open door onto the deck.

Miss Henderson glanced at the man who had

smiled. It was a well-bred glance indicating that

she was ready to enter into conversation with a

fellow traveler.

PROBLEI AT SEA

195

energetic--yes, said the little man.

ii.

"He is

·

"He goes round the deck forty-eight times

exactly," said Miss Henclerson. "What an old

gossip! And they say we are the scandal-loving sex. ' '

"What an impoliteness!',

"Frenchmen are always polite," said Miss

Henderson--there was the nuance of a question in

her voice.

The little man responded promptly. "Belgian,

Mademoiselle."

"Oh I Belgian."

"Hercule Poirot. At YOUr service."

The name aroused sonic memory. Surely she

had heard it before--? "Are you enjoying this

trip, M. Poirot?"

"Frankly, no. It was an imbecility to allow

myself to be persuaded to come. I detest ia mcr. Never does it remain tranquil--no, not for a little