Then I had a conversation with Mrs Mercado.
She told me at great length how devoted she had been to Mrs Leidner and how much she had admired her.
Carey made no answer to this, and after waiting a minute or two Poirot went on: That I did not believe!
Then I come to you and that which you tell me well, again I do not believe
Carey stiffened.
I could hear the anger repressed anger in his voice.
I really cannot help your beliefs or your disbeliefs, M. Poirot.
Youve heard the truth and you can take it or leave it as far as I am concerned.
Poirot did not grow angry.
Instead he sounded particularly meek and depressed.
Is it my fault what I do or do not believe?
I have a sensitive ear, you know.
And then there are always plenty of stories going about rumours floating in the air.
One listens and perhaps one learns something!
Yes, there are stories
Carey sprang to his feet.
I could see clearly a little pulse that beat in his temple.
He looked simply splendid!
So lean and so brown and that wonderful jaw, hard and square.
I dont wonder women fell for that man.
What stories? he asked savagely.
Poirot looked sideways at him.
Perhaps you can guess.
The usual sort of story about you and Mrs Leidner.
What foul minds people have!
Nest ce pas?
They are like dogs.
However deep you bury an unpleasantness a dog will always root it up again.
And you believe these stories?
I am willing to be convinced of the truth, said Poirot gravely.
I doubt if youd know the truth if you heard it, Carey laughed rudely.
Try me and see, said Poirot, watching him.
I will then!
You shall have the truth!
I hated Louise Leidner theres the truth for you! I hated her like hell!
Chapter 22.
David Emmott, Father Lavigny and a Discovery
Turning abruptly away, Carey strode off with long, angry strides.
Poirot sat looking after him and presently he murmured: Yes I see
Without turning his head he said in a slightly louder voice: Do not come round the corner for a minute, nurse.
In case he turns his head.
Now it is all right.
You have my handkerchief?
Many thanks.
You are most amiable.
He didnt say anything at all about my having been listening and how he knew I was listening I cant think.
Hed never once looked in that direction.
I was rather relieved he didnt say anything.
I mean, I felt all right with myself about it, but it might have been a little awkward explaining to him.
So it was a good thing he didnt seem to want explanations.