The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

be studying him attentively..

"How do I know you're Hercule Poirot--hey?"

he demanded fretfully. "Tell me that

--hey?"

Once more Poirot drew the letter from his

pocket and handed it to Farley.

"Yes," admitted the millionaire grudgingly.

"That's it. That's what I got Cornworthy to

write." He folded it up and tossed it back. "So

you're the fellow, are you?"

With a little wave of his hand Poirot said:

"I assure you there is no deception!"

Benedict Farley chuckled suddenly.

"That's what the conjuror says before he takes

the goldfish out of the hat! Saying that is part of

the trick, you know."

Poirot did not reply. Farley said suddenly:

"Think I'm a suspicious old man, hey? So I am.

Don't trust anybody! That's my motto. Can't

trust anybody when you're rich. No, no, it doesn't

do."

"You wished," Poirot hinted gently, "to con-suit

me7"

The old man nodded.

150

tgatha Christie

"That's right. Always buy the best. That's my

motto. Go to the expert and don't count the cost.

You'll notice, M. Poirot, I haven't asked you your

fee. I'm not going to! Send me in the bill later--/