|
In the Offices of
Messrs. Seddon, Ridgeway & Seddon
Hercule Poirot said, "The case against your
client is a very strong one . . ."
"I really fail to see, M. Poirot, how you
know anything about it."
Poirot said, "Although I am actually
retained by Dr. Lord, I have here a note from Mr. Roderick Welman."
He handed it over with a bow.
Mr. Seddon perused the few lines it
contained and remarked grudgingly, "That, of course, throws a new
complexion on the matter. Mr. Welman has made himself responsible for
Miss Carlisle's defense. We are acting at his request." He added with
visible distaste, "Our firm does very little in--er--criminal procedure,
but I felt it my duty to my--er--late client--to undertake the defense
of her niece. I may say we have already briefed Sir Edwin Bulmer, K.C."
Poirot said, and his smile was suddenly
ironic, "No expense will be spared. Very right and proper!"
Looking over his glasses, Mr. Seddon said,
"Really, M. Poirot--"
Poirot cut into his protest. "Eloquence and
emotional appeal will not save you client. It will need more than that."
Mr. Seddon said dryly, "What do you advise?"
"There is always the truth."
"Quite so."
"But in this case will the truth help us?"
Mr. Seddon said sharply, "That, again, is a
most improper remark."
Poirot said, "There are certain questions I
should like answers."
Mr. Seddon said cautiously, "I cannot, of
course, guarantee to answer without the consent of my client."
"Naturally I understand that." He paused and
then said, "Has Elinor Carlisle any enemies?"
Mr. Seddon showed a faint surprise. "As far
as I know, none."
"Did the late Mrs. Welman, at any period of
her life, make a will?"
"Never. She always put it off."
"Has Elinor Carlisle made a will?"
"Yes."
"Recently? Since her aunt's death?"
"Yes."
"To whom has she left her property?"
"That, M. Poirot, is confidential. I cannot
tell you without authorization from my client."
Poirot said, "Then I shall have to interview
your client!"
Mr. Seddon said with a cold smile, "That, I
fear, will not be easy."
Poirot rose and made a gesture.
"Everything," he said, "is easy for Hercule Poirot."
|
