The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

THE REGATTA MYSTERY

of the lady. Clearly then, Mrs. Rustington."

Llewellyn said with something of an effort,

,'She--she's had rather an unfortunate experi-ence.

Her husband was a down and out rotter. It's

made her unwilling to trust anyone. She--if she

thinks--"

He found it difficult to go on.

"Quite so," said Mr. Parker Pyne. "I see the

matter is important. It must be cleared up."

Evan gave a short laugh.

"That's easy to say."

"And quite easy to do," said Mr. Parker Pyne.

"You think so?"

"Oh, yes--the problem is so clear cut. So many

possibilities are ruled out. The answer must really

be extremely simple. Indeed already I have a kind

of glimmering--"

Llewellyn stared at him incredulously.

Mr. Parker Pyne drew a pad of paper towards

him and picked up a pen.

"Perhaps you would give me a brief description

of the party."

"Haven't I already done so?"

"Their personal appearance--color of hair and

$o on."

"But, Mr. Parker Pyne, what can that have to

do with it?"

"A good deal, young man, a good deal. Classi-fication