I was standing at the window of Poirot's room looking leisurely down the street. "Strange!" I blurted out suddenly. "What's the matter, my friend?" asked Poirot in a calm tone, sitting in his comfortable rocking-chair. "Please, Poirot, please infer the following facts!—A young woman richly dressed—in a fashionable hat and a rich fur coat. She is coming slowly. Looking at the houses on both sides. Two men and A middle-aged woman was following her, and she didn't know it. Suddenly there was another boy pointing and gesturing behind her. What's going on? Is the woman a villain? Or a follower Are they the detectives who are going to arrest her? Or, are they villains. Preparing to trap innocent victims? What does the big detective think about that?"

"My friend, the great detective is as usual. Do it in the simplest way. He will get up and see for himself." So my friend and I stood at the window together. After a while, he suddenly let out a pleasant giggling. "As usual, your inferences are distorted by your hopelessly romantic ideas. That's Mary. Miss Marvel, the famous movie star. She's followed by a bunch of admirers who know her well. And, by the way Say something. My dear Hastings, she knows the truth behind it!" I laughed. "That explains it all! But you have no problem with it, Poirot. It is only because you know her."

"How many times have you seen a Mary Marvel movie, honey?" I thought about it. "Probably more than ten times." "And I—only once! But I recognized her, and you didn't." "She's very different now than she was in the movies," I replied stupidly. "Ha!" cried Poirot, "did you expect her to walk the streets of London wearing a cowboy hat, or barefoot, with her pigtails tied up like an Irish girl? You're always thinking about things that don't matter. Please think of that dancer, Valeria St. Clair." I shrugged a little angrily.

"But comfort yourself, my friend," said Poirot, calming down. "Not all men are as clever as Hercule Poirot! I know that very well." "You do think of yourself more highly than anyone I know!" I said it aloud, a little provocative and a little annoyed. "What do you think? When a man is extraordinary, he knows it! Others ought to think the same—and, if I'm not mistaken, Mary. Miss Marvel." "what?" "No doubt. She's coming here." "How do you guess that?" "Very simple. This street is not frequented by noblemen, my friend! There are no famous doctors, no famous dentists—never more fashionable milliners in this street! And yet there is a first-rate detective."

As usual, Poirot was right again this time.After a while, the American movie star was ushered into the room.We all stood up. Mary.Marvell is undoubtedly the most popular actress on screen.She was with her husband Gregory.Rolf, recently arrived in England; her husband is also a movie star.They were married a year ago in the US and this is their first visit to the UK.A great reception was held for them.Everyone is to Mary.Marvell was fascinated by her gorgeous clothes, her fur coats as well as her jewelry.The most striking of these is a jewel, which has a nickname comparable to its owner's reputation, known as the "Star of the West", and many articles have been written about this famous jewel, true and false, It is said to have been insured for up to £50,000.All these details raced through my mind as Poirot and I greeted our handsome client together.Miss Marvell was petite, slender, very pretty, with big blue eyes, innocent as a child.Poirot drew her a chair, and she began to talk as soon as she sat down.

"Perhaps you will think me a fool, M. Poirot. But Cronshaw told me last night how wonderful you were, having solved the mystery of his nephew's death. I feel compelled to come and ask you for advice. I dare say It was just. A stupid prank—so Gregory said—but it worried me to death." She paused for breath, and Poirot encouraged her to go on. "Go on, madam. You can see. I still don't understand." "It's all because of these letters." Miss Marvell opened her purse, took out three envelopes, and handed them to Poirot. Poirot read the three letters carefully.

"Envelopes are cheap—names and addresses are printed neatly. Let's look inside again." He pulled out the letter paper. I went over to look with him, leaning over his shoulders.The first letter consisted of one sentence, printed as clearly as the envelope.Its content is: that big diamond is the left eye of God, where it came from must be returned. The second letter is exactly the same as the first letter, but the third letter is much more detailed: you have been warned.But you did not obey.Now, this diamond is going to be taken from you.On the day of the full moon, the two gemstones that were originally the left eye and the right eye of the god will be returned to the god.If you write it like this, you will do it.

"When I read the first letter I thought it was a joke," explained Miss Marvell, "and when I got the second I began to worry; the third arrived yesterday. It seemed to me , anyway, things may be more serious than I imagined." "I can tell they didn't come in the mail." "Yes. They were sent—by a Chinese. That's why I'm afraid." "why?" "Because Gregory bought this gem three years ago from a Chinese in San Francisco." "I see, ma'am, that you believe this jewel to be—" "The Star of the West," went on Miss Marvell, "and it is. Gregory then heard rumors about the jewel, but that The Chinese refused to say anything. Gregory said the man looked terrified and desperate to get the thing off. He was asking for a tenth of what it was worth. It was a wedding present from Gregory to me .”

Poirot nodded thoughtfully. "That sounds like an unbelievable legend. But—who knows? Ah, please, Hastings, hand me my little almanac." I did. Poirot turned the pages and said, "When will the full moon be? Well, next Friday. That means there are three days left. Madame, come and ask me to give you advice—I'll give you mine. It may be a hoax—or it may not be! So I beseech you to entrust me with this gem, which I shall keep until next Friday. We shall then do as we please." A faint cloud of sadness passed over the female star's face, and she replied unnaturally: "I'm afraid that's impossible."

"You have it with you—did you?" Poirot watched her carefully. The woman hesitated for a moment, then reached into the bosom of the dress and pulled out a long thin necklace.She leaned forward and let go of her hand.In her palm, there is a dazzling white gemstone.Crystal clear, dazzling.Poirot took a deep breath. "Splendid!" he whispered, "will you let me see it, madam?" He took the gem into his hands, and examined it carefully.Then, with another bow, he gave it back to her, "It's an incredible gem—flawless. Do you run around with it on your body? You're being careless!"

"No, no, I'm actually very careful, M. Poirot. I always keep it locked in my jewel-box in the valuables depository of the hotel. We live at the Folly Hotel, you know. You just brought it for a look." "Will you leave it to me, then? Will you do what old Poirot wants?" "Ah, yes, M. Poirot. We are going to Yardley Park on Friday to spend a few days with Lord and Mrs. Yardley." Her words reminded me of something vaguely.Some gossip—how ​​did it say it?A few years ago, Lord Yardley and his wife visited the United States.There were rumors that his lordship was involved with some ladies there, and that he was behaving badly--but there were more rumors that compared his lordship's name more accurately with a California actress-ah!A thought suddenly flashed in my mind—that movie star is none other than Gregory in front of me.Mrs Rolf. "I'll let you in on a secret, Mr. Poirot," continued Miss Marvell, "that we have a deal with Lord Yardley. We may make a film in his ancestral castle." "At Yardley Park?" I was interested. "Oh, that's a great tourist attraction in England." Miss Marvell nodded. "I think it's a real feudal antique. But he's asking a lot. Of course, I don't know if the deal will be done, but Gregory and I are always willing to combine business and fun." "But—forgive me if I am abrupt, madam—surely it is all right to go to Yardley Park without this jewel?" A shrewd, stern look passed over Miss Marvell's eyes, belied her innocence.She looked suddenly much older. "I want to go there with it on." "Of course," I interrupted suddenly, "Lord Yardley has some very famous jewels in his collection, including a large diamond?" "Yes." Miss Marvell replied curtly. I heard Poirot murmur: "Oh, that's so careless!" Then, hitting the point, he exclaimed, "There is no doubt, then, that you and Mrs. Yardley are old friends, or that your husband is well acquainted with her?" "Gregory knew her when she went to America three years ago," said Miss Marvel.She hesitated for a moment, then added hastily, "Has any of you seen The Social Sideshow?" We both blushed and agreed. "I'm asking because this week there was an article about famous diamonds, and it was really weird—" She paused. I stood up, walked across the room, and retrieved the newspaper.She took it from me.Find the article and start reading it aloud. "...among the famous diamonds there is one called the Star of the Orient, which was the property of the Yardley family. It was brought back from China by one of Lord Yardley's ancestors. There is also a romance attached to this gem According to the legend, this gemstone was once the right eye of a statue in a temple; another gemstone exactly like it in shape and size was the left eye of that statue." "The legend says that as the years passed, the jewel in the left eye of the idol was also stolen. One eye was to be sent to the West and the other to the East, until one day they were reunited. At that time , as a victory, they will be returned to the god., A strange coincidence is that the stone that is strikingly similar to the one described is called the 'Star of the West' or the 'Star of the East'. It is The property of the famous movie star Mary. Miss Marvell. It will be very interesting to compare the two jewels together." She stopped. "Brilliant!" said Poirot to himself. "There is no doubt about it. It is a first-rate romance." He turned to Marie.Miss Marvell said, "Aren't you afraid to shoot, ma'am? Don't you have superstitious, fearful thoughts? You are not afraid to put these two identical gems next to each other, and then a Chinese suddenly appears, and suddenly, change! Hey ! Take them all back to China?” His tone was exaggerated, but I could hear an element of seriousness beneath the ostentatious exaggeration. "I don't believe Lady Yardley's gem is as good as mine." Miss Marvel said, "Anyway. I'm going to see." I did not hear what Poirot said again, for at that moment the door opened suddenly.A handsome man broke into the room.From his jet-black curly hair to his shiny boots, it's clear that he's a true legend. "I said I'd take a look for you, Mary," said Gregory.Rolfe said, "Come now. Come now. M. Poirot, what can you tell me about our little problem? Just a big prank--like I think?" Poirot smiled and looked up at the great star, and they formed a comical contrast. "Prank or not, Mr. Rolfe," he said dryly, "I advise your lady not to take the jewel with you to Yardley Park on a Friday." "I agree with you, Mitsuo. I've told Mary so. But she! She's a woman through and through. I don't think she can stand another woman better than her in gems." "Nonsense, Gregory!" said Mary.Marvel said sternly.But her face was flushed with anger. Poirot shrugged. "Ma'am, I have given my advice. Beyond that. There is nothing I can do. Let it be." "Ah! well," he said, watching them go out, and looking back, "these women! He's a good husband. He hits the nail on the head--always does, but the way he talks isn't tactful, it isn't!" I told him my vague thoughts.He nodded vigorously. "I think so too. There is indeed something very strange behind all these phenomena. Please allow me, my friend, to go for a walk. Be sure to wait for my return. I beg you, I will not delay long." I was lying on the chair and almost fell asleep.At this time.The landlady knocked on the door and put her head in. "Another lady wants to see M. Poirot, sir. I told her he was out, but she said she would wait anyway. She looks as if she is from out of town." "Oh, bring her here, Mrs. Mathison. Maybe I can do something for her." After a while, the lady was ushered into the room.My heart skipped a beat. I know her.Mrs. Yardley's photographs appeared too often in the local papers for her to be unrecognizable. "Sit down, Mrs. Yardley," I said.Pulled up a chair. "My friend Poirot is gone, but I know he will be back soon." She thanked me.Then sat down.The lady and Mary.Miss Marvel is two very different types.Tall, with black eyes and piercing eyes.A pale, round face—but you could see it from the line of her lips.She is a little sad. I'd love to get straight to the point.why not?In Poirot's presence.I often find it difficult - I can't bring out my best side.But there is no doubt that my detective skills are also of a high standard.Under sudden impulse.I lean forward. "Mrs. Yardley," I said, "I know why you're here—you've got blackmail letters about that jewel." There is no doubt that my words hit home.She stared at me with her mouth open, her cheeks turning pale. "You know?" She gasped, "How did you know?" I laughed. "On very logical grounds. If Miss Marvell received a warning letter—" "Miss Marvell? Has she been here?" "She just left. If, as I said, as the owner of one of the two identical gemstones, she received a series of mysterious warning letters, then you, as the owner of the other gemstone. You must have received the same warning letters. Do you see how simple it is? Well, I am right, you must have received those strange warning letters, too, right?" For a while, she hesitated, as if she was doubting whether my words were worth trusting.Then she looked down and gave a small smile of approval. "Indeed." She admitted. "Is your letter also delivered—by a Chinese?" "No. They came by post. But please tell me. Did the same thing happen to Miss Marvel?" I told her what happened that morning.She listened intently. "All right, then. My letters are copies of hers. They did come by post, though. There's a peculiar smell soaking this piece of paper—the smell of burning incense—and it reminds me immediately of East. What does it all mean?" I shake my head. "That's what we have to find out. Have you brought those letters? We might see something from the postmark." "Unfortunately, I destroyed the letter. You know, at the time I thought it was just a stupid joke. Is that possible? Is there any Chinese gang really trying to get these gems back? It seems too unbelievable. " We go back and revisit those facts over and over again.But there was no progress towards unraveling the secret.At last Mrs Yardley stood up. "I really don't think I should wait for M. Poirot any longer. You'll tell him that, won't you? Thank you very much—" She hesitated, and held out her hand. "My name is Hastings." "Of course, what a fool I am! You're a friend of Cavendish, aren't you? It was Mary Cavendish who sent me to visit M. Poirot." When my friend came back, I happily told him what had happened while he was out.He cross-examined me on all the details of our conversation, and I could see from it that he didn't regret his absence very much.I could also see that the sweet old fellow was not in the least bit jealous.Indeed, he was always inclined to underestimate my abilities, and I think he was terribly annoyed that he could not find any loophole in which to criticize me.I was also secretly quite pleased with myself, though I tried to hide the fact that I was afraid of provoking him.Although I know his nature, I still like this strange little friend very much. "Great!" He finally spoke, with a strange expression on his face. "Things have progressed, indeed. I ask you to pass me the "Nobility List" on the top shelf." He turned the pages. "Ah! Found it! Yardley... Tenth Viscount , was in the South African War...None of that matters... 3rd Barron in 1907. Cotterill's 4th daughter, blah, blah, blah... And, two Daughter, born in 1908, 1910 . . . Crabbe, house . "what?" "Yes, I called him." "I thought you'd let it go!" "I am not doing this for Miss Marvell, who refuses to heed my advice. All I am doing now is to gratify my own curiosity—Hercule. Poirot's! It has been decided Now, I must intervene in this matter." "So you call Lord Yardley in peace and let him drive into town in a hurry, just to satisfy your curiosity. He won't be very happy." "On the contrary. If I keep his family's jewel for him. He should be very grateful." "So you really think it might have been stolen?" I asked eagerly. "It's entirely possible." Nanomuma replied succinctly. "Everything speaks for itself." "But, how—" Poirot stopped my eager question with a wave of his hand. "Can't tell you now. I beg you, don't let me get my thoughts out of my head. Keep an eye on that 'Roller'—how you put it! See if you put the noblest book at the bottom of your shelf." top, put the next book on the row below, and so on. Then we have order, order, as I always tell you, Hastings—" "It's true. "I answered hastily.Put those hateful scrolls in their proper place. Lord Yardley looked like an excited, loud athlete.His ruddy complexion and friendly demeanor are very agreeable, and thus make up for any deficiency in his intellect. "It's a troublesome thing, M. Poirot. I can't make any sense of it. It seems that my wife has received some strange letters. Miss Marvel has. What does it mean?" Poirot handed him the copy of The Social Trivia. "My lord. First of all, I want to ask you whether these facts are correct?" The lord took the newspaper.Read and read.His face turned red with anger. "Nonsense!" he said abruptly. "There has never been any legend about that gem. I believe it was brought from India at first, and I have never heard of a Chinese god or anything like that." "Also, that jewel is called the Star of the East" "Oh, so what?" he asked indignantly. Poirot smiled, but made no direct answer. "My lord. What I would like to ask of you is to take your affairs entirely into my hands. If you do so without reserve, I am quite sure of avoiding this disaster." "So you think these bullshit stories actually happen?" "Will you do as I say?" "Of course I would, but—" "Good! Allow me to ask you one more question. Is the matter of Yardley Park fully settled between you and Rolf, as you say?" "Oh, he told you all, didn't he? No, nothing settled." He hesitated, his ruddy face darkened. "It's better to be frank. I've been like a jackass for many years, M. Poirot—I'm in debt beyond my means—but I want to pick myself up. I love children, I want to get my family back together, and I hope to be able to stay in the house again." Live on the ancestral estate. Gregory offered to pay me a lot of money—enough to bring me back to life. I wouldn’t do that—I hate those people making movies on the estate, it’s disgusting to think about— But maybe I can't help it. Unless—" He stopped. Poirot fixed him with sharp eyes. "So you have other plans? Allow me to speculate, will you? Are you trying to sell the Eastern Star?" Lord Yardley nodded: "That's right. It's been in my family for generations. But it doesn't really matter. Besides, it's not easy to find a buyer. Hofberg of Hatton Gardens A potential buyer is being scouted, but he must find such a person as soon as possible. Otherwise, it will be in vain." "Permit me to ask one more question—does Lady Yardley approve of the plan?" "Oh, she was so against me selling that jewelry. You know what women are like. She was all for the movie thing." "I understand," said Poirot.He thought for a moment, then got up hastily, "Would you like to go straight back to Yardley Park? Good! Don't say a word to anyone—. I warn you, don't tell anyone—but this evening please Wait for us to go. We will arrive at your mansion after five o'clock." "Okay, but I don't understand—" "It doesn't matter," said Poirot kindly. "You allow me to keep your diamonds for you, is that right?" "Yes, but—" "Then please do as I tell you." The Guan family was puzzled and left with a sad face. It was five-thirty when we arrived at Yardley Hall, and we were ushered into the hall by the respectable and dignified butler.Before our eyes was a beautiful scene: Mrs. Yardley with her two children, the dark-haired mother bending over her two fair-haired boys with pride.Lord Yardley stood close by, watching them with a smile. "M. Poirot and Captain Hastings are calling," the butler reported. Mrs. Yardley looked up in surprise, and her husband stepped forward hesitantly.With his eyes he begged Poirot for instructions.The short man knew the situation before him with ease. "Forgive me for my presumptuousness! I'm here to investigate what Miss Marvell has commissioned. She's coming to your house on Friday, isn't she? I'm here first to ensure safety. Did she keep the postmarks of those letters she received?" Mrs. Yardley shook her head regretfully. "I'm afraid not. I'm a fool. But you see, I didn't take those letters seriously." "Are you going to spend the night here?" asked Lord Yardley. "Ah, my lord, I was afraid to disturb you. We have left our luggage at the hotel." "No problem," suggested Lord Yardley, "we'll send for it." "No, no—not intrusive at all. I assure you." Poirot pretended to be persuaded.Seated comfortably beside Mrs. Yardley, she began to play with the two children.After a while, they became acquainted.And took me to participate in their game. "It's so cute." When the kids are reluctantly pulled over by a stern-looking nanny.said Poirot, bowing gracefully, as Mrs Yardley smoothed her hair which had been ruffled by the child. "I love them," she said affectionately. "They love you too--and rightly so!" Poirot bowed again. When the bell rang, it was time to change for dinner, and we got up and made our way to our rooms.Right now.The butler appeared at the door with a tray in hand.There was a telegram on the tray, which he delivered to Lord Yardley.The Lord apologized and opened the telegram.Finish reading the telegram.He visibly stiffened. He muttered something and handed the telegram to his wife.Then he looked at my friend. "Stay here, Monsieur Poirot, I think you should know about it. It's a telegram from Hoffberger. He says he has found a buyer for the diamond—an American, and is leaving tomorrow. Back home. They're about to send someone to get the diamond. But, my God, if this—" He stopped talking. Mrs. Yardley had turned to go.She still had the telegram in her hand. "I hope you don't sell it, George," she said, in a low voice, "it's been in the family for so many generations." She seemed to be waiting for an answer, but.There was no answer, and her face hardened.She shrugged. "I'm going to change. I thought I'd better put on that diamond for you to see." She turned to Poirot and made a little face. "It's the biggest diamond ever. One of the necklaces! George always promised to re-set those diamonds for me, but he never did," she said, leaving the room. Half an hour later, the three of us gathered in the drawing room and waited for the hostess to show up again.It was a few minutes past dinner time. With the low sound of Xixosuo.Mrs Yardley appeared at the door, resplendent in a long white dress.A string of crystal and bright necklaces is wrapped around her beautiful neck.She stopped where she was and stood still, touching the necklace lightly with one hand. "Let's take another look." She said excitedly, "It will change hands soon." Her mischievous humor seems to have faded. "When I turn on the headlights, you're going to feast your eyes on the biggest and ugliest diamond necklace in Britain." The light switches are on the outside of the door.When she went out to reach for the switch.Something unexpected happened.Without warning, all the lights suddenly went out.There was only a bang on the door, and a woman's long, piercing, and sharp cry came from outside the door. "My God!" cried Lord Yardley, "it's Maud's voice! What's the matter?" We rushed toward the door in the dark, bumping into each other in the darkness.It took a few minutes before we ran to the scene of the accident.A horrific sight appeared before her eyes. Mrs. Yardley lay unconscious on the marble floor. There was a red mark on her white neck, which was the evidence of the necklace being stolen. We couldn't figure out for a moment if she was dead or alive, as we bent over to look.Her eyes opened. "The Chinese," she murmured in agony, "the Chinese—the side door." Lord Yardley gave a roar and jumped to his feet.I turned around and ran after him, my heart beating violently.It's Chinese again!The side door to which Mrs. Yardley had pointed was in the corner of the house, not twelve yards from the scene of the accident.When we arrived, I yelled.There I found it, not far from the threshold, and I saw the gleaming necklace, which had evidently been dropped by the burglar in his haste.Overjoyed, I bent down to pick it up.Immediately afterwards, I screamed again, and this time, Lord Yardley screamed as I did.Because there's a notch right in the middle of that necklace. The "Oriental Star" is gone! "That's telling," I said, panting. "These thieves are no ordinary people. That diamond is what they're after." "But how could that fellow come into the courtyard?" "From this side door." "But the door is always locked." I shake my head. "It's unlocked now. Look!" I said with a pull of my hand, and it opened. When I opened the door, something fell to the ground.I bent down to pick it up. It was a ribbon, no doubt intended for lacework.This is torn from a Chinese robe. "In his haste to escape, this ribbon fell on the door," I explained. "Follow him. He can't get very far yet." However, our pursuit and search were in vain.Under the cover of thick night, the thieves could easily escape.We chased for a while, and reluctantly returned the same way.Lord Yardley sent a servant to report to the police. Mrs Yardley had recovered under Poirot's tender care, and was able to tell us what had just happened. "I was just about to reach out to turn on the headlights," she said, "when a man jumped up behind me. He grabbed the necklace around my neck. He was so strong that I fell headfirst on the ground. On the floor. As I fell, I saw him disappear through that side door. Then I could tell by his braids and lace-embroidered robe that he was a Chinese." She paused.Take a breath. The butler reappeared, and said in a low voice to Lord Yardley, "A gentleman has come from Mr. Hofburg, my lord. He says you have business to call for him." "Dear me!" exclaimed the distraught nobleman. "I should see him, I suppose, but not here. I'll see him in the study, Mullins." I drew Poirot aside. "You see, my dear friend, if we had better go back to London first?" "Do you think so, Hastings, why?" "Ammonia—" I coughed deliberately, "it's not very good, is it? I mean, you tell Lord Yardley to leave his affairs to you and everything will be all right— Then, the diamond disappeared from under your nose!" "Indeed," said Poirot, somewhat despondently, "this way of looking at the matter almost makes me laugh, but I stand by it." "So, after messing things up, and pardon me for saying this, don't you think it would be more appropriate for us to leave immediately?" "But what of the supper that Lord Yardley's cook has prepared? It will undoubtedly be a fine supper." "Oh, why are you still thinking about eating at this time!" I said impatiently. Poirot made a terrible movement and waved his hand. "My God! Is this the country where you treat food with criminal indifference?" "That's why we should get back to London as soon as possible." I insisted. "Why do you say that, my friend." "For the other jewel," I said in a low voice, "Miss Marvel's jewel." "Oh, what do you mean?" "Don't you understand?" His unexpected stupidity irritated me.He's usually so smart and quick-witted.what is it today? "They've got one, now they're going to get another one." "Alas!" cried Poirot.He took a step back and regarded me with admiration. "However, you have a wonderful mind, my friend! You should think of a question which I have not considered at this moment! But there is still time. That will be until the full moon, and it is not yet Friday." I shook my head in doubt, the so-called full moon was hard for me to accept.I explained my thoughts to Poirot anyway.Then we left immediately. Before we left, we left a note to Lord Yardley explaining our departure and apologizing to him. My idea was that we should go at once to the Folly Hotel and explain to Miss Marvel what had happened, but Poirot vetoed my idea, insisting that it would not be too late to tell Miss Marvel until the next morning, I reluctantly agreed. Poirot did not seem at all inclined to go out next morning.我开始怀疑，由于这件事开头他犯了个错误，现在他非常讨厌继续管这个案子了。我劝了他几次，作为回答。他令人信服地向我指出。由于第二天的早报都已登载了亚德利庄园所发生的事情的详细报道，罗尔夫夫妇肯定已经知道了我们能够告诉他们的所有情况。我不情愿地同意了他的看法。 事情的结果证明我的预感是对的。大约在两点的时候，电话铃声响了，波洛接了电话。他凝神倾听了一会儿，然后简单说了声“好，我这就去”，就把电话挂断了。他转身看着我。 “你怎么看这件事呢，我的朋友？”他一半儿是激动，一半儿是难为情。“马维尔小姐的宝石被偷走了。” “什么？”我大叫一声，跳了起来，“所谓月满之日的说法现在作何解释呢？”波洛垂下了脑袋。“这件事是什么时候发生的？” “我的理解是今天早上。” 我难过地摇摇头：“如果当初你听了我的话就好了。你看，还是我说的对吧。” “看来的确如此，我的朋友。”波洛有所保留地说，“表面现象是容易欺骗人的。不过，看起来确实如此。” 在我们坐出租车匆忙奔赴富丽宾馆的途中，我指出这个阴谋的实质所在。 “所谓。月满之日，的说法是很聪明的，其所有的用意在于使我们的注意力集中到星期五，这样，在星期五之前，我们就放松了警惕。很遗憾，你没有认识到这一点。” “是啊！”波洛轻描淡写地应了一声，他的不愉快在短暂的低潮过后，又重新恢复了，“一个人总不能什么事都考虑那么周到！” 我替他难过，他确实痛恨任何失败。 “高兴起来吧，”我安慰地说道，“祝你下次好运。” 到了富丽宾馆，我们立刻被领进经理办公室。Gregory.罗尔夫和两个伦敦警察厅的人坐在那里，一个脸色苍白的职员坐在对面。 当我们进来的时候。罗尔夫朝我们点点头。 “我们正在把事情搞个水落石出。”他说道，“可是这几乎是令人难以置信的事。那个家伙怎么会有胆量呢？我连想也想不到。” 很短的几分钟就足以使我们了解了事实的全部经过罗尔夫先生在十一点一刻离开了宾馆，在十一点半来了一位男子，长相非常像他，很容易就通过了门卫的检查。那人进了宾馆，来到贵重物品保管处，让服务员拿出宝石匣子。 他顺利地在收据上签了名，在签名的时候，他还随意说了句：“啊，和我平时的签名看起来有点不-样。不过。我在从出租车上下来的时候，手受了点伤。”服务员只是对他笑了一笑，注意到他看上去没有什么不一样。罗尔夫笑着说道。 “好了，不管怎么说，这次总不会把我当成小偷投进监狱。我一直收到一个中国人的威胁信件，最糟糕的是，我本人的长相看起来确实像个中国佬，尤其是眼睛。” “我看了看他，”那个脸色苍白的职员告诉我们说，“我立刻就注意到他那活是什么意思了。他的眼角稍微有点斜，和东方人是完全一样的。以前我从来没注意到这一点，”“这家伙，真该死！”罗尔夫咆哮道，身子问前一倾，“现在你注意到了吗？” 那个职员抬头看着他，一阵惊恐。 “啊，不。先生。”他说道。“您的眼睛不像个东方人。”确实，那双棕色的、坦诚的大眼睛正注视着我们，没有一点像东方人眼睛的地方。 伦敦警察厅的人咕哝道。“那个冒充的人真胆大。他想到人们也许会注意到他的眼睛，就故意以攻为守，打消人们的疑虑。他肯定是在你走出宾馆的时候一直观寮着你，然后你刚一走远。他就立即进了宾馆。” “那个宝石匣子怎么样？”我问道。 “在宾馆的走廊上又被找到了。里面只丢了一样东西—西方之星。” 我们对视了一眼—整件事情都是这么出人意料，这么令人难以置信。 波洛轻快地碰了碰脚跟。“恐怕我在这里不会有多大用处了，”他遗憾地说道，“是否允许我去见一见夫人？” “我想她因受了惊吓而卧病在床。”罗尔夫解释道。 “那么也许我可以和您单独说几句话，先生？” "certainly." 五分钟之后，波洛又重新回到了房间。 “现在，我的朋友，”他快活地说道，“跟我到邮局去，我必须发一份电报。” “给谁？” “给亚德利勋爵。”他挽起了我的胳膊打消了更多的提问，“走吧，走吧，我亲爱的朋友。我知道你对这个糟糕的案子会怎么想，我做得并不出色！你，如果换在我的位子上。也许会出人头地。好了！所有的问题都问清楚了，让我们把件事情忘掉，去共进午餐吧。” 大约四点钟，我们回到波洛的房间。从靠窗的一把椅子上站起一个人，那人正是亚德利勋爵。他看上去面容憔悴。忧心仲仲。 “收到您的电报，我马上就赶过来了。你瞧。我顺路去看了霍夫伯格，他们对昨天晚上他们派的那个人一无所知，对那份电报也根本不知道。您认为这是—”波洛抬了抬手。 “对不起，是我发的那份电报，是我雇的那个人。” “你—为什么？这究竟是为什么？”那个贵族语无伦次地问道。 “我的想法是把所有的事情都集中到一个人的手里。” 波洛平心静气地解释道。 “把东西都拿到一个人的手里！啊，我的上帝！”亚德利勋爵大叫一声。 “我的计谋取得了成功，”波洛兴奋地说道。“因此，大人，我们高兴地把这个归还给您！”他做了一个夸张性的手势。拿出了一件闪闪发光的东西。正是那颗大钻石。 “东方之星！”亚德利勋爵大气都不敢出，“可是我不明白—”“不明白吗？”波洛道，“没有关系。请相信我，非常有必要让这颗钻石失盗。我答应过您，耍替你保管这颗钻石，我履行了我的诺言。你也必须答应我，替我保守这个小小的秘密，我还请您一定转达我对亚德利夫人最深切的敬意。而且告诉她，我能把她的钻石归还给她是多么的愉快。今天天气不错，是吧？再见。大人。” 他脸上洋溢着微笑，嘴上滔滔不绝地说着，这个迷人的矮个子。将那个迷惑不解、疑虑万千的贵族送到了门口，然后他转身回来，还轻轻地搓着他的手掌。 “波洛。”我问，“难道我头脑混乱了吗？” “没有，我亲爱的朋友。不过，你像往常一样，被蒙在了鼓里。” “你是怎么样得到那颗钻石的？” “从罗尔夫先生手里。” “从罗尔夫那里？” “是的。那些警告信件。那个所谓的中国人还有《社交花絮》上的那些文章，全都出自罗尔夫先生那个简单的脑子！大家议论纷纷的所谓两颗极为相似的钻石，它们其实并不存在。事实上只有一颗钻石，我的朋友！最初，这颗钻石是亚德利家族的藏品，三年以来，它实际上属于罗尔夫先生所有。今天早上，他拿彩笔在他的眼角轻轻用油膏——抹。稍作改动，就把那颗钻石偷走了！啊，我应该去看他演的电影。他确实是一位出色的表演艺术家。绝对没错！” “不过。他为什么要偷他自己的钻石呢？”我迷惑不解地问。 “有多种原因。首先。是因为亚德利夫人开始变得难以驾驭。” “亚德利夫人？” “你知道，在加利福尼亚，她被独自一人撇下很久，她的丈夫却在其他地方寻欢作乐。罗尔夫先生英俊潇洒，有一种浪漫气质。不过，他又很有生意头脑，他使亚德利夫人坠入情网。然后，他就开始讹诈她。那天晚上。我盘问了夫人有关的事实。她都承认了。她发誓说，她只是一时言行举止有失检点，我相信她了。不过，毫无疑问，罗尔夫手里有她的信件，这些信件可以被随意解释出不同的意思。由于害怕离婚，还由于害怕和她的孩子们分离，她同意罗尔夫的一切要求。可是她自己又没有钱，她就被迫给他一件珍品换回她的那些信件。'西方之星'出现的日期那么巧合立刻引起了我的注意。一切都有条不紊地在进行。亚德利勋爵准备重新振作起来，把他的事情安顿一下，接下来就出现了有可能出让那颗钻石的情况，这样，那颗替代品就会被发现。亚德利夫人就焦急万分地给刚到英国来的格里高利。罗尔夫写信。告诉了他所有的情况。他就安慰她，答应把一叨都安排妥当，也就是说，安排一次双重盗窈。这样，他就能使那位夫人平静下来。可以想象，假如不这样，她也许会把真相告诉她的丈夫。这么一来，对我们的讹诈者—格雷戈里。罗尔夫就一点好处也没有了。这样做，亚德利还可以得到五万英镑的保险金，(难道你忘了这点了吗？)而且罗尔夫将仍然拥有那颗钻石！正在此时，我插手了这件事情。我派人送去电报说一个钻石专家将要抵达亚德利勋爵府上。亚德利夫人像我预料中的那样，她会立刻实排一次钻石失盗事件—她也做得确实天衣无缝！不过，赫尔克里。波洛，他看事情可是只注重事实。事实上是怎样的呢？那位夫人关掉了所有的灯，碰上了房门，将项链扔到了走廊上，然后又大叫起来。她在楼上早就把那颗钻石用镊子取下来了—”“可是我们看见那个项链在她脖子上戴着呀！”我表示异议。 “请你注意，我的朋友。她的手当时掩盖着那个可能显露出豁口的地方。把一条丝绸提前挂在门上简直是小孩们的把戏！当然了，罗尔夫一听到那件盗窃案，他就立刻着手安排自己的小小把戏，他表演得相当出色！” “你跟他谈了些什么？”我充满好奇心地问道。 “我对他说，亚德利夫人把所有的事情都告诉了他的丈夫，我被授权重新追回那颗钻石。如果那颗钻石不立刻转到我的手里，以前的事情就会东窗事发。我还添加了几句谎话，他就完全控制在我的手里了。” 我将整个案件的前前后后仔细想了一遍。 “对玛丽。马维尔小姐来说好像有点不公平，她失去了她的钻石，可是她并没有丝毫的过错。” “哈！”波洛冷酷地说道。“她等于做了一次声势浩大的广告宣传，她所关心的只是这些，那种人！不过，说到另一个女人，她就不同了。那是典型的贤妻良母，女人味十足！” “是吗？”我怀有疑虑地问道，难以苟同波洛对女人的看法。“我想是罗尔夫给她的那些信件的复制品吧。” “绝对不是，”波洛轻快地说道，“她听了玛丽。卡文迪什的劝告，来找我帮助她摆脱困境，然后她就听说了玛丽。马维尔小姐也来过这儿。她知道对方是她的敌人，她就立刻改变了主意，看准时机，抓住了一个借口。而我的朋友，这个借口是你提供给她的。极少的几个问题就足以向我证明是你给她讲了那些所谓的讹诈信，而不是她告诉了你这些情况！她抓住了机会，利用了你向她说的话。” “我对此难以相信。”我痛苦地叫道。 “好了，好了，我亲爱的朋友，你不学习心理学是很遗憾的。是她告诉你那些信都毁掉了吗疗哎呀呀，如果这种情况可以避免的话。一个女人是绝对不会毁掉一封信的！如果是一位比较谨慎的女人，那就更不可能发生这类事情！” “事情听起来都合情合理！”我说道，但我的愤怒在不断增加，“可是你却把我当成一个十足的傻瓜，从头到尾都是这样！事情过后再做一番解释固然无可指责，但凡事总有个限度！” “可是你一直自我感觉良好，我的朋友。我确实不忍心击碎你的幻觉。” “那毫无用处，这一次你做得太过分了。” “天哪！什么事也做不成，还生别人的气，叫我怎么办呢，我的朋友？” “我受够了！”我狠狠一摔房门跑了出去。波洛纯粹是把我当成了笑柄，我决定要让他受一次严厉的教训。我要过一段时间才能够原谅他。他怂恿我，鼓励我，让我把自己变成一个十足的傻瓜。