The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

Stillingfleet, M.D.

158

Agatha Christie

He said with a remarkable lack of medical

decorum:

"That you, Poirot, old horse? Stillingfleet

here. ' '

"Yes, my friend. What is it?"

"I'm speaking from Northway House--Benedict

Farley's?'

"Ah, yes?" Poirot's voice quickened with

interest. "What of--Mr. Farley?"

"Farley's dead. Shot himself this afternoon."

There was a pause, then Poirot said:

"Yes .... "

"I notice you're not overcome with surprise.

Know something about it, old horse?"

"Why should you think that?"

"Well, it isn't brilliant deduction or telepathy

or any

thing like that. We found a note from Farley

to you making an appointment about a week

ago. ' '

"I see."

"We've got a tame police inspector here--got to

be careful, you know, when one of these millionaire

blokes bumps himself off. Wondered whether

you could throw any light on the case. If 'so, perhaps

you'd come round?"

"I will come immediately."