The Regatta Mystery and Other Stories (Hercule Poirot 21)

Mrs. Delafontaine. "My aunt died on Tuesday

evening. It was quite unexpected."

"Most unexpected," said Mr. Delafontaine.

"Great blow." His eyes watched the window

where the foreign girl had disappeared.

"I apologize," said Hercule Poirot. "And I

withdraw." He moved a step toward the door.

"Half a sec," said Mr. Delafontaine. "You--er--had

an appointment with Aunt Amelia, you

say?'"

·

'Parfaiternent." .

"Perhaps you will tell us about it," said his

wife. "If there is anything we can do--"

"It was of a private nature," said Poirot. "I am

a detective," he added simply.

Mr. Delafontaine knocked over a little china

figure he was handling. His wife looked puzzled.

"A detective? And you had an appointment

with auntie? But how extraordinary!" She stared

at him. "Can't you tell us a little more, M.

Poirot? It--it seems quite fantastic."

Poirot was silent for a moment. He chose his

words with care.

"It is difficult for me, madame, to know what

to do."

"Look here," said Mr. Delafontaine. "She

didn't mention Russians, did she?"

"Russians?"

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?