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Poirot nodded gravely.
That is exactly what I thought. Well, I will tell you this. Use your warrant:
"
Arrest Mr. Inglethorp. But it will bring you no kudos--the case against him
will be dismissed at once! Comme ca!" And he snapped his fingers
expressively.
Japp's face grew grave, though Summerhaye gave an incredulous snort.
As for me, I was literally dumb with astonishment. I could only conclude
that Poirot was mad.
Japp had taken out a handkerchief, and was gently dabbing his brow.
"I daren't do it, Mr. Poirot. I'd take your word, but there's others over me
who'll be asking what the devil I mean by it. Can't you give me a little more
to go on?"
Poirot reflected a moment.
"It can be done," he said at last. "I admit I do not wish it. It forces my hand. I
would have preferred to work in the dark just for the present, but what you
say is very just--the word of a Belgian policeman, whose day is past, is not
enough! And Alfred Inglethorp must not be arrested. That I have sworn, as
my friend Hastings here knows. See, then, my good Japp, you go at once to
Styles?"
"
Well, in about half an hour. We're seeing the Coroner and the doctor first."
Good. Call for me in passing--the last house in the village. I will go with
"
you. At Styles, Mr. Inglethorp will give you, or if he refuses--as is probable--I
will give you such proofs that shall satisfy you that the case against him
could not possibly be sustained. Is that a bargain?"
"That's a bargain," said Japp heartily. "And, on behalf of the Yard, I'm much
obliged to you, though I'm bound to confess I can't at present see the
faintest possible loop-hole in the evidence, but you always were a marvel! So
long, then, moosier."
The two detectives strode away, Summerhaye with an incredulous grin on
his face.
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