Without heeding my cry of protest, his speech flowed on⁠—evenly, serenely⁠—till with a cry of horror I clapped my hands to my ears.

“It is enough, I see. Take up the pen and write.”

“You would not dare⁠—”

“Your speech is foolishness, and you know it. Take up the pen and write.”

“If I do?”

“Your wife goes free. The cable shall be despatched immediately.”

“How do I know that you will keep faith with me?”

“I swear it to you on the sacred tombs of my ancestors. Moreover, judge for yourself⁠—why should I wish to do her harm? Her detention will have answered its purpose.”

“And⁠—and Poirot?”