IV

I was astonished at Poirot’s instant reaction to my piece of information.

‘What is that you say, Hastings?’

He dropped the piece of thin toast he had been raising to his lips. Hepoked his head forward.

‘Tell me. Tell me quickly.’

I repeated the story.

‘He saw something through the glasses that day,’ repeated Poirotthoughtfully. ‘Something that he will not tell you.’ His hand shot out andgripped my arm. ‘He has not told anyone else of this?’

‘I don’t think so. No, I’m sure he hasn’t.’

‘Be very careful, Hastings. It is urgent that he should not tell anyone – hemust not even hint. To do so might be dangerous.’

‘Dangerous?’

‘Very dangerous.’

Poirot’s face was grave. ‘Arrange with him, mon ami, to come up and seeme this evening. Just an ordinary friendly little visit, you understand. Donot let anyone else suspect that there is any special reason for his coming.

And be careful, Hastings, be very, very careful. Who else did you say waswith you at the time?’

‘Elizabeth Cole.’

‘Did she notice anything odd about his manner?’

I tried to recollect. ‘I don’t know. She may have. Shall I ask her if –?’

‘You will say nothing, Hastings – absolutely nothing.’