Poirot drew in his breath with a long hiss.

“ Épatant! ” he murmured. “You permit, madame?” He took the jewel in his own hand and scrutinized it keenly, then restored it to her with a little bow. “A magnificent stone⁠—without a flaw. Ah, cent tonnerres! and you carry it about with you, comme ça !”

“No, no, I’m very careful really, Monsieur Poirot. As a rule it’s locked up in my jewel-case, and left in the hotel safe deposit. We’re staying at the Magnificent, you know. I just brought it along today for you to see.”

“And you will leave it with me, n’est-ce pas ? You will be advised by Papa Poirot?”