Page:The Big Four (Christie).pdf/58

48 “Absolutely certain.

“Good. Now, when did you come out of prison?”

“Two months ago.”

“How did you obtain this job?”

“Through one of them Prisoners’ Help Societies. Bloke met me when I came out.”

“What was he like?”

“Not exactly a parson, but looked like one. Soft black hat and mincing way of talking. Got a broken front tooth. Spectacled chap. Saunders his name was. Said he hoped I was repentant, and that he’d find me a good post. I went to old Whalley on his recommendation.”

Poirot rose once more.

“I thank you. I know all now. Have patience.” He paused in the doorway and added: “Saunders gave you a pair of boots, didn’t he?”

Grant looked very astonished.

“Why, yes, he did. But how did you know?”

“It is my business to know things,” said Poirot gravely.

After a word or two to the Inspector, the three of us went to the White Hart and discussed eggs and bacon and Devonshire cider.

“Any elucidations yet?” asked Ingles, with a smile.