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"Why, that there is altogether too much strychnine about this case This is the third tilethorp's tonic There is the strychnine sold across the counter at Styles St Mary by Mace Noe have more strychnine, handled by one of the household It is confusing; and, as you know, I do not like confusion"

Before I could reply, one of the other Belgians opened the door and stuck his head in

"There is a lady below, asking for Mr Hastings"

"A lady?"

I jumped up Poirot followedin the doorway

"I have been visiting an old woe," she explained, "and as Lawrence told ht I would call for you"

"Alas, ht you had come to honour me with a visit!"

"I will so

"That is well If you should need a father confessor, htly--"remember, Papa Poirot is always at your service"

She stared at hi to read so into his words Then she turned abruptly away

"Come, will you not walk back with us too, Monsieur Poirot?"