The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

THE MYSTERY OF THE BAGDAD CHEST

31

I do not remember that we discussed the case

further. Poirot displayed no special interest in it at

the time. The facts were so clear, and there was so

little ambiguity about them, that discussion

seemed merely futile.

Mr. and Mrs. Clayton and Major Rich were

friends of fairly long standing. On the day in question,

the tenth of March, the Claytons had accepted

an invitation to spend the evening with

Major Rich. At about seven-thirty, however,

Clayton explained to another friend, a Major Cur-tiss,

with whom he was having a drink, that he had

been unexpectedly called to Scotland and was

leaving by the eight o'clock train.

"I'll just have time to drop in and explain to old

Jack," went on Clayton. "Marguerita is going, of

course. I'm sorry about it, but Jack will understand how it is."

Mr. Clayton was as good as his word. He arrived

at Major Rich's rooms about twenty to

eight. The major was out at the time, but his

manservant, who knew Mr. Clayton well, suggested

that he come in and wait. Mr. Clayton said

that he had not time, but that he would come in

and write a note. He added that he was on his way

to catch a train.

The valet accordingly showed him into the sitting

room.

About five minutes later Major Rich, who must