It was Poirot who saved the situation.
‘It is true that I have retired from the world,’ he said. ‘I never intended to take up a case again. Above all things, I have a horror of publicity. I must beg, that in the case of my being able to contribute something to the solution of the mystery, my name may not be mentioned.’
Inspector Raglan’s face lightened a little.
‘I’ve heard of some very remarkable successes of yours,’ observed the colonel, thawing.
‘I have had much experience,’ said Poirot quietly. ‘But most of my successes have been obtained by the aid of the police. I admire enormously your english police. If Inspector raglan permits me to assist him, I shall be both honoured and flattered.’
The inspector’s countenance became still more gracious. Colonel Melrose drew me aside.
‘From all I hear, this little fellow’s done some really remarkable things,’ he murmured. ‘We’re naturally anxious not to have to call in Scotland yard. raglan seems very sure of himself, but I’m not quite certain that I agree with him. you see, I – er – know the parties concerned better than he does. This fellow doesn’t seem out after kudos, does he? Would work in with us unobtrusively, eh?’
‘To the greater glory of inspector Raglan,’ I said solemnly.
‘Well, well,’ said colonel Melrose breezily in a louder voice, ‘we must put you wise to the latest developments, M. Poirot.’
‘I thank you,’ said Poirot. ‘My friend, doctor Sheppard, said something of the butler being suspected?’
‘That’s all bunkum,’ said raglan instantly. ‘These highclass servants get in such a funk that they act suspiciously for nothing at all.’
‘The fingerprints?’ I hinted.
‘Nothing like Parker’s.’ he gave a faint smile, and added: ‘And yours and Mr Raymond’s don’t fit either, doctor.’
‘What about those of captain Ralph Paton?’ asked Poirot quietly.
I felt a secret admiration of the way he took the bull by the horns. I saw a look of respect creep into the inspector’s eye.
‘I see you don’t let the grass grow under your feet, Mr Poirot. It will be a pleasure to work with you, I’m sure. We’re going to take that young gentleman’s fingerprints as soon as we can lay hands upon him.’
‘I can’t help thinking you’re mistaken, Inspector,’ said colonel Melrose warmly. ‘I’ve known Ralph Paton from a boy upward. he’d never stoop to murder.’