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He shook his head

"No," he saidsounded froether Poirot had been asked by John to remain to lunch, and was already seated at the table

By tacit consent, all edy was barred We conversed on the war, and other outside topics But after the cheese and biscuits had been handed round, and Dorcas had left the room, Poirot suddenly leant forward to Mrs Cavendish

"Pardonunpleasant memories, but I have a little idea"--Poirot's "little ideas" were beco a perfect byword--"and would like to ask one or two questions"

"Of me? Certainly"

"You are too a into Mrs Inglethorp's room from that of Mademoiselle Cynthia, it was bolted, you say?"

"Certainly it was bolted," replied Mary Cavendish, rather surprised "I said so at the inquest"

"Bolted?"

"Yes" She looked perplexed

"I mean," explained Poirot, "you are sure it was bolted, and not merely locked?"

"Oh, I see what youthat it was fastened, and I could not open it, but I believe all the doors were found bolted on the inside"

"Still, as far as you are concerned, the door ht equally well have been locked?"