There was a minute or two’s pause, and then my little friend rose to his feet, with an air of dignity that sat rather oddly upon his quaint personality.

“That is all I have to say, messieurs⁠—to warn you. I thought it likely that I should not be believed. But at least you will be on your guard. My words will sink in, and each fresh event that comes along will confirm your wavering faith. It was necessary for me to speak now⁠—later I might not have been able to do so.”

“You mean⁠—?” asked Crowther, impressed in spite of himself by the gravity of Poirot’s tone.