The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

was. You understand? I am sure the constraint

or--or--absentmindedness perhaps describes it

better--had nothing to do with Edward. He was

surprised to hear that Edward had gone to Scot-land,

but not unduly so."

"And nothing else unusual occurs to you in

connection with that evening?"

Marguerita thought.

"No, nothing whatever."

"You--noticed the chest?"

She shook her head with a little shiver.

"I don't even remember it--or what it was like.

We played poker most of the evening."

"Who won?"

"Major Rich. I had very bad luck, and so did

Major Curtiss. The Spences won a little, but

Major Rich was the chief winner."

"The party broke up--when?"

"About half-past twelve, I think. We all left

together."

"Ah!"

THE MYSTERY OF THE BAGDAD CHEST

39

Poirot remained silent, lost in thought.

"I wish I could be more helpful to you," said

Mrs. Clayton. "I seem to be able to tell you so

little."

"About the present--yes. What about the past,

madame?"

"The past?"