Chapter 6 prime minister kidnapping case

Now that wars and wars are a thing of the past, I think I can now, without fear, reveal to the world the part which my friend Poirot played in times of national crisis.This matter has been kept as a secret, and no word has been disclosed to the press.But now that the days of secrecy are over, I feel it should be made public so that the whole of the UK will know of the important contribution my funny, eccentric little friend has made to the country.His extraordinary ingenuity saved England from a major disaster. One day after supper—I will not specify the date, but it is enough to make it clear that the period when the enemies of England were parroting the peace treaty—my friend and I were sitting in his room. chatting.After retiring from the military, I was placed in a new job.It had become a habit of mine to come to Poirot every day after dinner and talk to him about any interesting case that came his way.At that time, I was discussing with him the sensitive topic that people are talking about-the attempted assassination of the British Prime Minister Sir David McAdam.The news disclosed in the newspaper had obviously been strictly scrutinized by the relevant state departments, and no details were reported, but the prime minister was lucky to escape, and the bullet only lightly grazed his cheek.

I think our police should be ashamed that they were so careless and almost allowed such a conspiracy to work in our country.I can also quite understand that German spies lurking in Britain would risk such an action at a high cost: "Mike the Fighter," as the Prime Minister's colleagues nicknamed him, offered a tribute to what was then blindly and generally accepted as peace. The compromising forces fought resolutely and without mercy. He was not just Prime Minister of the United Kingdom - he was the image of Britain himself; without his strength and leadership, Britain would be paralyzed and devastated.

Poirot was busy trying a gray suit with a sponge; never had he seen such a well-dressed man as Hercule Poirot, whose special passion was neatness and order.Now, the smell of benzene is everywhere in the house, and it is difficult for him to concentrate on talking with me. "In a little while, and I'll have a good chat with you, my friend, and I'm almost done. This little piece is clean--it's so nasty--I'm going to get rid of it-- Alright!" He waved the sponge on his hand. I lit another cigarette and smiled. "Anything interesting lately?" I asked him after a minute or two.

"I helped a - what should I call this kind of person? - 'cleaning lady' find her husband. It was a very tricky business, and it took a lot of thinking, because I had an idea, that He won't be happy when he's found. What do you think? For my part, I sympathize with him; he's a man of discernment and he doesn't want to lose his independence." I laughed. "Okay! The oil stain has finally been removed! Now, I am at your service." "I asked you just now, what do you think of the attempted murder of McAdam?" "It's child's play!" said Poirot quickly. "I don't think of it as a serious matter at all. Assassination with a rifle—never succeeds. It's an old fashioned thing." weapons."

"It's almost done this time," I reminded him. Poirot shook his head impatiently. Just as he was about to make his defense, the landlady poked her head in and informed him that there were two gentlemen downstairs who were eager to see him. "They won't say their names, sir, but they say it's very important." "Let them come up," said Poirot, carefully folding up his gray trousers. A few minutes later, the two visitors were ushered into the room.When I saw them, my heart jumped.It turned out that there were two great men of state, one was Lord Estaire, Leader of the House of Representatives; and his companion, Mr. Bernard Dodge, was a man of the War Office, and, as far as I know, a close friend of the Prime Minister. .

"Are you M. Poirot?" asked Lord Estelle suspiciously.My friend bowed slightly.The big man looked at me and said hesitantly, "My business is very confidential." "In the presence of Captain Hastings, you can take your liberties," said my friend, nodding to me to stay. "He's not terribly bright, yes! But I'm ashamed of his prudence and his tight-lipped mouth." Guaranteed." Lord Estelle was still hesitating, but Mr. Dodge interrupted suddenly: "Oh, come on, then - don't mince words! At present, it seems to me, the whole of Britain will know that we will soon be in trouble; timing is everything."

"Sit down, sir," said Poirot politely, "will you take this big chair, my lord?" Lord Estelle asked in surprise, "You know me?" Poirot smiled and said: "" "Mr. Poirot, I have come here to ask for your help because of an urgent matter. I must ask you to keep it absolutely secret." "You've heard it from Hercule Poirot—I need not repeat it!" replied my friend proudly. "It's about the prime minister. We're in a dire situation." "We've got almost nowhere to go!" interjected Mr. Dodge. "So he's seriously hurt?" I asked.

"What injury?" "Gunshot wound." "Oh, that," said Mr. Dodge in an insignificant tone, "that's all over." "As my colleague said," continued Lord Estaire, "that was over, luckily the bullet missed. I hope we can also be called lucky on the second attempt." "So there's another one?" "Yes. Although not of the same nature, M. Poirot, it is the case that the Prime Minister has disappeared." "what?" "He was kidnapped!" "It's impossible!" I yelled dumbfounded. Poirot cast a glance at me for my attention, and I realized that I had better keep my mouth shut now.

"Unfortunately, what seemed impossible on the surface has become a reality," said the Lord. Poirot looked at Mr. Dodge again: "You said just now, sir, that timing is everything. What do you mean by that?" They exchanged glances, and then Mr. Estelle said: "Mr. Poirot, you must have heard that the Allied Conference is about to take place." My friend nodded. "For well-known reasons, the time and place of the meeting have not been disclosed. But, although the matter is kept secret from the press, it is already known in diplomatic circles: the meeting will be held tomorrow, Thursday evening at Versailles. Now you can understand the dire situation we are facing, and I will not hide from you how vital the Prime Minister's presence is. Among us, the idea of ​​​​so-called peaceful non-resistance preached and stirred up by German spies is already very active ...the consensus is that the Prime Minister's clear-cut stand and strong personality will turn the tide, and that his absence could lead to dire consequences - possibly an ill-timed and catastrophic so-called temporary peace. We are currently looking for There is no one who can replace him, only he can represent Britain."

Poirot's face became very serious: "Do you think, then, that the immediate intent of kidnapping the Prime Minister was to prevent him from attending the meeting?" "I think so. In fact, he was on his way to France." "Is the meeting sure to be held?" "The time for the meeting is exactly nine o'clock tomorrow night." Poirot drew his large pocket watch from his pocket. "It's a quarter to nine." "Twenty-four hours," said Mr. Dodge, after a moment's thought. "Twenty-four hours and a quarter," corrected Poirot, "don't forget that quarter of an hour, sir—it may be of use. Now, give me the details of the kidnapping. It took place in England, Or did it happen in France?"

"In France. Mr. MacAdam arrived in France this morning. He is to remain there this evening as a guest of the Commander-in-Chief, and is to leave for Paris tomorrow. He was escorted across the English Channel in a destroyer. A member of the Air Defense Command. The car met him at the Bullen. They left the Bullen, but they never got where they were supposed to be." "what?" "Monsieur Poirot, it was an impostor's car. The real car was found on a side road with the driver and the officer from Air Defense Command gagged and strapped to the seat." "And what about the imposter's car?" "Still at large." Poirot made an impatient gesture: "Unbelievable! It certainly won't be hiding out for long." "We think so too, it looks like a thorough search will be required. The French side is already on military alert. We have reason to miss that the car won't be hidden for long, the French police and our people from Scotland Yard, and the troops , are being closely searched. As you say, this is incredible, yet, so far, no leads have been found." There was a knock at the door, and a young officer came in with a thick, tightly sealed letter in his hand, which he handed to Lord Estelle. "It has just been sent from France, and I have sent it to you according to your instructions." The minister tore open the letter impatiently, whispered a few words to the officer, and the officer left the room. "Here's the latest news! The telegram has just been translated and they found the second car and the secretary, Daniel, who was drugged, gagged, bound hand and foot and dumped on an abandoned farm .He can’t remember anything except that his mouth and nose were covered from behind and he struggled to free himself but failed. The police believed his story.” "Didn't they find anything else?" "No." "Hasn't the Prime Minister's body been found either? There's hope, then, but it's a strange thing. Why did they go to such lengths to keep him alive after trying to shoot him in the morning? Why on earth is that?" Dodge shook his head: "Only one thing is for sure, they are determined to stop him from attending the meeting at all costs." "As long as there is a glimmer of hope, the Prime Minister will be present on time. May God bless it before it is too late. Now, gentlemen, please give me the whole story carefully from beginning to end. I must also know that this morning The circumstances of the shooting that took place." "Last night the Prime Minister, accompanied by one of his secretaries - Captain Daniel -" "Is Captain Daniel the secretary who accompanied him to France?" "Yes, as I said, they traveled to Windsor by car. There, the Prime Minister had an arranged meeting. He was back in town earlier this morning, and on his way back into town from Windsor, it happened The attempted shooting." "Please wait a moment, do you know about this Captain Daniel? Do you have any information about him?" Lord Estelle smiled: "I think you will ask this question. We don't know much about him, and there is nothing special about his family background. He serves in the British army and is a particularly capable secretary. In In terms of languages, he is especially gifted, and I believe he can speak seven languages, and it is for this reason that the Prime Minister chose him to accompany him to France." "Has he any relations in England?" "Two aunts. One is Mrs Everard, who lives in Hampstead, and the other is Miss Daniel, who lives near Ascot." "Ascot? Is it near Windsor?" "Yes. We did not neglect to search there, but found nothing." "Then you think Captain Daniel is the most suspect?" There was an unspeakable pathos in Lord Estelle's voice, and he replied: "Mr. Poirot, in the present circumstances, I would hesitate to say that I should rule out any suspicion." All right.I understand now, my lord.By convention, the Prime Minister is bound to be under heavy police protection, which should keep him safe from any mishaps, right? " Lord Estaire nodded: "It should be so. The prime minister's car is driving ahead, and a car full of plainclothes policemen will follow behind for protection. Mr. McAdam did not notice this. Because His character, he's a fearless guy, if he knew there were policemen following him, he would have no qualms about asking them to leave. However, the policemen will naturally follow their own arrangements. In fact, the prime minister's driver, Omo Fee is a member of the Criminal Investigation Department." "O'Murphy? It's an Irish name, isn't it?" "Yes, he's an Irishman." "Where in Ireland was he born?" "County Clare, I think it's there." "Oh, please go on, my lord." "The Prime Minister's car was heading towards London, it was closed and he, Captain Daniel, was sitting in it; the second car followed as usual. But unfortunately the Prime Minister's car went off the road for no apparent reason. " "At a bend in the road?" put in Poirot. "Yes, but how do you know that?" "Oh, that's obviously the way it should be. Please go on!" "For some reason, the Prime Minister's car left the road," continued Lord Estaire. "The police car, unaware of the turn ahead, continued along the road. The Prime Minister's car did not go very far along the path." , was suddenly surrounded by a group of masked men. The driver—” "It's that brave O'Murphy!" said Poirot thoughtfully. "The driver, slamming on the brakes. The Prime Minister poked his head out of the window. Immediately a bullet went through, and then another. The first grazed his cheek, the second missed. The driver was aware of the dangerous situation at this time, so he stepped on the accelerator and rushed forward to disperse the group of people." "Survival!" I said nervously from the side. "Mr McAdam refused to publicize his minor injury, insisting it was just a scratch, and they pulled over to a small local hospital where they were bandaged - of course he did not reveal his identity .Then, according to the schedule, he drove straight to Callai Kolos. There, a special train was waiting for him to sail to Denver. After Lieutenant Daniel recounted what happened to the anxious police, according to the established Arranged for them to take a special train to Denver. In Denver, they boarded the destroyer waiting there. In the Bullen, as you know, the imposter car with the Union Jack on it was waiting for him, and all They're all perfectly disguised." "Is that all you can tell me?" "yes." "Are you sure there is nothing missing, my lord?" "Oh, there is a very special thing." "yes?" "The Prime Minister's car did not return to London after Calle Kolos sent the Prime Minister away. The police were anxious to find O'Murphy, so a search was carried out immediately. Finally, the car was found parked in a prestigious house in Soho. Outside the messy tavern, which was known as a secret meeting place for German spies." "Where's the driver?" "He's nowhere to be found. He's gone too." "So," Poirot said thoughtfully, "there are two disappearances in total. The Prime Minister was kidnapped in France, and O'Murphy disappeared in London." He looked sharply at Lord Estel's helpless face. "I can only tell you, Monsieur Poirot, that if someone told me yesterday that O'Murphy was a traitor, he would have laughed out loud, but today I don't know what to make of it." Poirot nodded gravely, and looked again at his large pocket watch. "My understanding is that I have full discretion over the matter, right? Gentlemen, I must have complete freedom to go wherever I want and investigate in my own way." "Exactly. In an hour there will be a special train bound for Denver, accompanied by the Metropolitan Police, an officer from the Headquarters and a member of the Criminal Investigation Department. They will do exactly what you want. Are you satisfied with the order to do it?" "Very satisfied. Before you leave, please allow me to ask one more question, gentlemen, why did you come to me? In a big London, I am unknown and unknown." "We have come to you on the special recommendation of a rather great man in your country." "You mean my old friend Pipet—?" Lord Estelle shook his head. "So much higher than your old friend Pipett, your boss. His words were Belgian law—and they will be! England swears to help him!" Poirot raised his hand quickly and made an exaggerated salute: "I hope so! My master has not forgotten... Gentlemen, I, Hercule Poirot, will serve you wholeheartedly .God bless, there will be time. But there is something suspicious here, and I don't know it." "Well, Poirot," I called to Poirot impatiently after the two ministers had gone out and I closed the door, "what do you really think about the matter?" My friend was busy packing his travel bag, and he was quick and quick.He shook his head thoughtfully. "I don't know what to think, my brain is not working right now." "Why kidnap him? Didn't you say that just shooting him in the head will solve all the problems?" I asked eagerly. "Forgive me, my friend, that's not what I meant. There is no doubt that their purpose was not simply to kidnap him." "Why?" "Because uncertain news creates confusion, that's one reason. If the Prime Minister died, it would be a terrible disaster, but people will still face this disaster. But now, everything is paralyzed. , people feel uncertain about the future. Will the Prime Minister reappear, or disappear? Is he dead or alive? No one knows. Nothing can be done until they find out the truth of the matter. And, as Uncertain news creates fear, as I told you, and that's what they're trying to create. Then, if the captors keep him in secret, they're in a great position to be able to fight both. Negotiating terms. The German government will not pay so easily. But, there is no doubt that in this case, those kidnappers will make them write a check. The last reason is that they do not run the risk of doing so. would put them to death. Ah, all they did was kidnap." "So, if that's the case, why did they try to shoot him earlier?" Poirot looked angry: "Oh, that's what I can't understand! It's incomprehensible—it's downright stupid! They've arranged everything for the kidnapping—it's perfect—and yet they've made The dramatic shooting incident ruined the whole plan. It was like a made-up movie with no sense of reality. A group of masked men shot the Prime Minister less than twenty miles from London. Like the Arabian Nights!" "Maybe they're two completely separate gangs doing their own thing?" I said. "Oh, no, there can be no such coincidence! The next question, then, is—who is the traitor in this case? First, there must be a traitor in any case, but who would it be? Daniel , or O'Murphy? It must be one of them, otherwise, the Prime Minister's car would not suddenly deviate from the road! It is impossible to imagine that the Prime Minister himself is responsible for his own murder. O'Murphy himself turned the steering wheel, Or did Daniel force him to do it?" "It must have been done by O'Murphy himself." "Yes. Because, if it was Daniel who ordered O'Murphy to do it, the Prime Minister would have heard it. He would have asked Daniel why he did it. In this case, there are too many 'whys', all things considered, They contradict each other. If O'Murphy was an honest man, why did he take the car off the road? But if he was unreliable, why did he restart the car when two bullets had already been fired— In doing so, he actually saved the Prime Minister's life. And, if he was reliable, why did he drive to the well-known meeting place of German spies immediately after leaving Calle Kolos?" "It's a real mess," I said. "Let's put things in perspective. Where are our trusts and doubts in these two men. Judge O'Murphy first: he's doubtful because he drove off the road, he was born in County Clare , was an Irishman who disappeared in a suspicious manner; he was credited with restarting the car quickly and saving the Prime Minister's life, and he was an agent of the Metropolitan Police. And, obviously, he was responsible for The special mission of the boss was arranged to be the driver of the prime minister. He is a very trusted agent. Then, let's look at Daniel's situation: there are not many doubts about him, only two facts. One is that he family history and family background, we don't know anything, nothing about their previous history, plus he speaks too many languages ​​as a decent Englishman! Please forgive me my friend , as far as language is concerned, your knowledge is far from enough! Now, let's look at the facts in his favor. What we have is that when they found him, he was drugged, gagged, tied hands and feet--so it seems that he can hardly have anything to do with it." "Maybe he gagged himself and then tied himself up to avoid suspicion." Poirot shook his head: "The French police can't go wrong with this kind of thing. Besides, once he has achieved his purpose and the Prime Minister has been safely kidnapped, it won't be of much use for him to stay there. Of course, it is possible that his associates drugged and gagged him, but I don't see what their intent is in doing so. After the Prime Minister is kidnapped, he is of little use to them. Because he Until the case of the Prime Minister's disappearance is investigated, he will certainly be closely monitored." "Maybe he was hoping to create a fake scene for the police." "Then why didn't he do it earlier? He just said that something was pressing on his nose and mouth and then he lost consciousness. He didn't create an illusion, it sounds very true." "Ah," I said, glancing at the clock, "I think we'd better get off to the station at once. You might find more clues in France." "Possibly, my dear friend, but I have some doubts, and it seems to me that within the confines of that suspicious area, it is hard to believe that the Prime Minister has not been found so far, and it will not be easy to hide him." .It can be said that there are many difficulties. If the military and police of the two countries can't find him, how can I find him?" At Calais Kolos, we meet Mr. Dodge again. "This is Detective Barnes, from Scotland Yard; this is Major Roman, and they are both entirely at your command. I wish you well. It's a bad thing, but I haven't given up hope. Must go now .” After speaking, the minister hurried away. Now that wars and wars are a thing of the past, I think I can now, without fear, reveal to the world the part which my friend Poirot played in times of national crisis.This matter has been kept as a secret, and no word has been disclosed to the press.But now that the days of secrecy are over, I feel it should be made public so that the whole of the UK will know of the important contribution my funny, eccentric little friend has made to the country.His extraordinary ingenuity saved England from a major disaster. One day after supper—I will not specify the date, but it is enough to make it clear that the period when the enemies of England were parroting the peace treaty—my friend and I were sitting in his room. chatting.After retiring from the military, I was placed in a new job.It had become a habit of mine to come to Poirot every day after dinner and talk to him about any interesting case that came his way.At that time, I was discussing with him the sensitive topic that people are talking about-the attempted assassination of the British Prime Minister Sir David McAdam.The news disclosed in the newspaper had obviously been strictly scrutinized by the relevant state departments, and no details were reported, but the prime minister was lucky to escape, and the bullet only lightly grazed his cheek. I think our police should be ashamed that they were so careless and almost allowed such a conspiracy to work in our country.I can also quite understand that German spies lurking in Britain would risk such an action at a high cost: "Mike the Fighter," as the Prime Minister's colleagues nicknamed him, offered a tribute to what was then blindly and generally accepted as peace. The compromising forces fought resolutely and without mercy. He was not just Prime Minister of the United Kingdom - he was the image of Britain himself; without his strength and leadership, Britain would be paralyzed and devastated. Poirot was busy trying a gray suit with a sponge; never had he seen such a well-dressed man as Hercule Poirot, whose special passion was neatness and order.Now, the smell of benzene is everywhere in the house, and it is difficult for him to concentrate on talking with me. "In a little while, and I'll have a good chat with you, my friend, and I'm almost done. This little piece is clean--it's so nasty--I'm going to get rid of it-- Alright!" He waved the sponge on his hand. I lit another cigarette and smiled. "Anything interesting lately?" I asked him after a minute or two. "I helped a - what should I call this kind of person? - 'cleaning lady' find her husband. It was a very tricky business, and it took a lot of thinking, because I had an idea, that He won't be happy when he's found. What do you think? For my part, I sympathize with him; he's a man of discernment and he doesn't want to lose his independence." I laughed. "Okay! The oil stain has finally been removed! Now, I am at your service." "I asked you just now, what do you think of the attempted murder of McAdam?" "It's child's play!" said Poirot quickly. "I don't think of it as a serious matter at all. Assassination with a rifle—never succeeds. It's an old fashioned thing." weapons." "It's almost done this time," I reminded him. Poirot shook his head impatiently. Just as he was about to make his defense, the landlady poked her head in and informed him that there were two gentlemen downstairs who were eager to see him. "They won't say their names, sir, but they say it's very important." "Let them come up," said Poirot, carefully folding up his gray trousers. A few minutes later, the two visitors were ushered into the room.When I saw them, my heart jumped.It turned out that there were two great men of state, one was Lord Estaire, Leader of the House of Representatives; and his companion, Mr. Bernard Dodge, was a man of the War Office, and, as far as I know, a close friend of the Prime Minister. . "Are you M. Poirot?" asked Lord Estelle suspiciously.My friend bowed slightly.The big man looked at me and said hesitantly, "My business is very confidential." "In the presence of Captain Hastings, you can take your liberties," said my friend, nodding to me to stay. "He's not terribly bright, yes! But I'm ashamed of his prudence and his tight-lipped mouth." Guaranteed." Lord Estelle was still hesitating, but Mr. Dodge interrupted suddenly: "Oh, come on, then - don't mince words! At present, it seems to me, the whole of Britain will know that we will soon be in trouble; timing is everything." "Sit down, sir," said Poirot politely, "will you take this big chair, my lord?" Lord Estelle asked in surprise, "You know me?" Poirot smiled and said: "Of course I do. How can I not know you when I read newspapers with photographs every day?" "Mr. Poirot, I have come here to ask for your help because of an urgent matter. I must ask you to keep it absolutely secret." "You've heard it from Hercule Poirot—I need not repeat it!" replied my friend proudly. "It's about the prime minister. We're in a dire situation." "We've got almost nowhere to go!" interjected Mr. Dodge. "So he's seriously hurt?" I asked. "What injury?" "Gunshot wound." "Oh, that," said Mr. Dodge in an insignificant tone, "that's all over." "As my colleague said," continued Lord Estaire, "that was over, luckily the bullet missed. I hope we can also be called lucky on the second attempt." "So there's another one?" "Yes. Although not of the same nature, M. Poirot, it is the case that the Prime Minister has disappeared." "what?" "He was kidnapped!" "It's impossible!" I yelled dumbfounded. Poirot cast a glance at me for my attention, and I realized that I had better keep my mouth shut now. "Unfortunately, what seemed impossible on the surface has become a reality," said the Lord. Poirot looked at Mr. Dodge again: "You said just now, sir, that timing is everything. What do you mean by that?" They exchanged glances, and then Mr. Estelle said: "Mr. Poirot, you must have heard that the Allied Conference is about to take place." My friend nodded. "For well-known reasons, the time and place of the meeting have not been disclosed. But, although the matter is kept secret from the press, it is already known in diplomatic circles: the meeting will be held tomorrow, Thursday evening at Versailles. Now you can understand the dire situation we are facing, and I will not hide from you how vital the Prime Minister's presence is. Among us, the idea of ​​​​so-called peaceful non-resistance preached and stirred up by German spies is already very active ...the consensus is that the Prime Minister's clear-cut stand and strong personality will turn the tide, and that his absence could lead to dire consequences - possibly an ill-timed and catastrophic so-called temporary peace. We are currently looking for There is no one who can replace him, only he can represent Britain." Poirot's face became very serious: "Do you think, then, that the immediate intent of kidnapping the Prime Minister was to prevent him from attending the meeting?" "I think so. In fact, he was on his way to France." "Is the meeting sure to be held?" "The time for the meeting is exactly nine o'clock tomorrow night." Poirot drew his large pocket watch from his pocket. "It's a quarter to nine." "Twenty-four hours," said Mr. Dodge, after a moment's thought. "Twenty-four hours and a quarter," corrected Poirot, "don't forget that quarter of an hour, sir—it may be of use. Now, give me the details of the kidnapping. It took place in England, Or did it happen in France?" "In France. Mr. MacAdam arrived in France this morning. He is to remain there this evening as a guest of the Commander-in-Chief, and is to leave for Paris tomorrow. He was escorted across the English Channel in a destroyer. A member of the Air Defense Command. The car met him at the Bullen. They left the Bullen, but they never got where they were supposed to be." "what?" "Monsieur Poirot, it was an impostor's car. The real car was found on a side road with the driver and the officer from Air Defense Command gagged and strapped to the seat." "And what about the imposter's car?" "Still at large." Poirot made an impatient gesture: "Unbelievable! It certainly won't be hiding out for long." "We think so too, it looks like a thorough search will be required. The French side is already on military alert. We have reason to miss that the car won't be hidden for long, the French police and our people from Scotland Yard, and the troops , are being closely searched. As you say, this is incredible, yet, so far, no leads have been found." There was a knock at the door, and a young officer came in with a thick, tightly sealed letter in his hand, which he handed to Lord Estelle. "It has just been sent from France, and I have sent it to you according to your instructions." The minister tore open the letter impatiently, whispered a few words to the officer, and the officer left the room. “这是最新消息！这份电报刚被译出来，他们找到了第二辆车，还有那位秘书丹尼尔，他被施麻醉剂，堵着嘴巴，捆着手脚扔在一个被遗弃了的农场上。他什么也记不清，只记得他嘴和鼻子被人从背后捂上了，他曾挣扎着想解脱出来，但未成功。警察相信了他所讲述的经过。” “他们没有发现别的东西吗？” "No." “也没有发现首相的尸体吗？那么，还有希望，但这事很奇怪，为什么他们要在早上企图枪杀他之后，又费这么大的周折要让他活下来？这究竟是为什么呢？” 道奇摇了摇头：“只有一件事是肯定的，他们决心不惜一切代价来阻止他出席会议。” “只要还有一线希望，首相就会按时出席。但愿上帝保佑，不要为时太晚。现在，先生们，请给我从头至尾仔细地讲一下整个事情的经过，我还必须知道今天早上发生的这起枪击事件的情况。” “昨天晚上，首相在他的一位秘书——丹尼尔上尉的陪同下——” “丹尼尔上尉就是陪他去法国的那个秘书吗？” “是的，就像我说的那样，他们乘车到温莎。在那里，首相有一次安排好的会见。今天上午早些时候，他返回城里，在从温莎返回城里的路上，发生了那起未遂的枪杀事件。” “请您稍等一下，这位丹尼尔上尉的情况您了解？您有他的资料吗？” 埃斯泰尔勋爵笑了笑：“我想您会问到这个问题的。我们对他了解不多，他的家庭背景并无特殊之处，他在英国军队供职，是个特别能干的秘书。在语言方面，尤其富于天赋，我相信他能讲七种语言，正是由于这个原因，首相才选中他，由他陪同，一起去法国。” “他在英国有什么亲戚吗？” “有两个姑姑。一位是埃弗拉德夫人，她住在汉普斯特德；一位是丹尼尔小姐，她住在阿斯科特附近。” “阿斯科特？是不是靠近温莎？” “是的。我们并没有忽略对那里的搜查，但什么也没发现。” “那么您认为丹尼尔上尉最有嫌疑了？” 埃斯泰尔勋爵的声音里有一种难言的悲苦，他回答道： “波洛先生，在目前的情况下，要我说排除任何嫌疑的话，我都会犹豫的。” All right.现在我明白了，大人。按照惯例，首相一定会处于警察的严密保护之中，这应该使他能够避免任何不测，对吗？ " 埃斯泰尔勋爵点了点头：“按道理应该是这样的。首相的车在前面行驶，一辆满载便衣警察的车就会紧随其后进行保护。麦克亚当先生对此并无察觉。由于他的性格，他是个无所畏惧的人，如果他知道有警察跟着他，他会毫不客气地请他们离开。但是，警察自然会按照他们自己的安排行事。事实上，首相的司机欧莫菲就是刑事调查部的成员。” “欧莫菲？这是个爱尔兰人的名字，对吗？” “是的，他是个爱尔兰人。” “他出生在爱尔兰的什么地方？” “克莱尔郡，我想是那里。” “噢，请继续讲下去，大人。” “首相的车向伦敦方向行驶，车是封闭的，他丹尼尔上尉坐在里面；第二辆车像往常那样紧跟在后面。但不幸的是，首相的车在路上无缘无故地偏离了公路。” “是在一个公路转弯处吗？”波洛插话说。 “是的，可是您怎么知道是这样？” “噢，很显然该是这样的。请继续讲下去！” “不知道什么原因，首相的车离开了公路，”埃斯泰尔勋爵接着说，“警察的车不知道前面转弯了，继续沿着公路向前开。首相的车沿着小路没走多远，突然被一伙蒙面人围住了。那位司机——” “就是那个勇敢的欧莫菲！”波洛沉思着说。 “那位司机，急忙踩了刹车。首相将头伸出窗处，立刻有颗子弹射了过去，然后又射来一颗。第一颗子弹擦伤了他的面颊，第二颗打偏了。司机此时已意识到所处的危险处境，便紧踩油门往前冲去产，将那伙人冲散。” “虎口余生啊！”我在一旁紧张地说了一句。 “麦克亚当先生对自己所受的轻伤拒绝张扬，他坚持说那只是被划破了点皮，他们将车停到了当地的一家小医院，在那里进行包扎——他当然没有暴露他的身份。然后，又按照日程的安排，驱车直奔卡莱·科洛斯。在那里，有专列在等着他，以便驶往丹佛。由丹尼尔上尉向焦急的警察叙述了所发生的事情之后，按既定的安排他们乘专列前往丹佛。在丹佛，他们登上了等候在那里的驱逐舰。在布伦，就像你知道的那样，那辆冒名顶替的汽车上面插着英国国旗正等着他，所有一切都伪装得天衣无缝。” “这就是您能告诉我的所有情况吗？” "yes." “您确定没有任何遗漏之处吗，大人？” “噢，有一件很特殊的事情。” "yes?" “首相的车，在卡莱·科洛斯将首相送走之后，并没有返回伦敦，警察急着要找到欧莫菲，于是立即进行了搜索。最后，车被发现停在索霍区的一家声名狼藉的小餐馆外面，那个小餐馆是众所周知的德国间谍的秘密聚会场所。” “那个司机呢？” “哪里也找不到他。他也失踪了。” “这么说，”波洛沉吟着说道，“总共有两起失踪案，首相在法国被人绑架，欧莫菲在伦敦失踪。” 他目光锐利地看着埃斯泰尔勋爵那表情十分无奈的脸。 “我只能告诉您，波洛先生，如果昨天有人对我说欧莫菲是个叛徒，那会笑掉牙的，可是今天我不知该如何看待这件事。” 波洛严肃地点了点头，他又看了看他的大怀表。 “我的理解是我对此事可以全权处理，对吗？先生们，我必须有完全的自由去我想去的任何地方，按照我自己的方式来调查。” “完全正确，一个小时之后，有辆开往丹佛的专列，还有伦敦警察厅的人、一位司令部的军官和一位刑事调查部的成员将陪您同往。他们会完全按您的吩咐行事，您对此还满意吗？” “非常满意。在你们离开之前，请允许我再问一个问题，先生们，你们为什么要来找我？在偌大一个伦敦，我默默无闻，鲜为人知。” “我们来找您，是因为贵国一个相当伟大的人物的特别推荐。” “您是说我的老朋友皮裴特——？” 埃斯泰尔勋爵摇了摇头。 “比您那位上司老朋友皮裴特的地位要高得多。他的话从前是比利时的法律——将来还会是的！英国发誓会帮助他的！” 波洛的手飞快地举起来，夸张地做了一个敬礼的动作：“但愿如此！我的主人并没有忘记……先生们，我，赫尔克里·波洛，将全心全意地为你们效力。愿上帝保佑，一切还能来得及。不过，这里有疑点，我还搞不清楚。” “好了，波洛，”当两位大臣走出去，我关上门后，便不耐烦地对波洛叫道，“你对此事究竟是怎么想的？” 我的朋友正忙着收拾旅行包，他动作迅速而敏捷。他沉思地摇了摇头。 “我不知道该怎么想，我的大脑现在不灵了。” “为什么还要绑架他呢？你不是说只要在他头上来一枪就能解决所有的问题了吗？”我急切地问。 “请原谅，我的朋友，我可不是那意思。毫无疑问，他们的目的并不仅仅是要绑架他。” “可为什么呢？” “因为不确定的消息会制造混乱，这是一个原因。如果首相死了，那将会是一场可怕的灾难，可是，人们还是会正视这种灾难的。但现在，一切都陷入了瘫痪状态，人们对前途感到难以捉摸。首相会重新出现呢，还是从此消失了？他是死了还是活着呢？没有人知道。在他们弄清事情的真相之前，什么事也做不了。而且，正像我告诉你的那样，不确定的消息使人产生恐惧，那才是他们想制造出来的效果。然后，如果绑架者把他秘密地关押起来，他们就处于非常有利的地位能和两个方面都谈条件。德国政府不会那么轻易付钱的。但是，毫无疑问，在这种情况下，那些绑架者会使他们开出支票的。最后一个原因是，他们这么做所冒的风险也不会使他们被处死。啊，他们所犯的只是绑架罪。” “那么，如果事情真是这样的话，他们为什么先前试图开枪打死他呢？” 波洛露出了生气的神情：“啊，这正是我难以理解的地方！这很令人费解——简直是愚蠢透顶！他们为绑架做好了一切安排——安排得天衣无缝——然而他们制造的戏剧性的枪击事件，却败坏了整个计划。这简直就像一部人为编造的电影，毫无真实感。一伙蒙面人在离伦敦不到二十英里的地方就开枪袭击首相，真像天方夜谭一般！” “也许他们是两个完全独立的团伙，彼此各干各的事？”我这么说。 “噢，不，不可能有这么巧合的事儿！那么，下一个问题是——谁是这案件中的叛徒呢？首先，无论如何其中一定是有叛徒的，但会是谁呢？是丹尼尔，还是欧莫菲呢？肯定是他们中间的一个，否则的话，首相的车是不会突然偏离公路的！我们不可能设想首相本人要对自己的谋杀负责，是欧莫菲自己转动的方向盘，还是丹尼尔强迫他做的呢？” “这肯定是欧莫菲自己干的。” “是的。因为，如果是丹尼尔命令欧莫菲做的话，首相肯定会听到。他会问丹尼尔为什么要这样做。在这件案子中，综合所有的情况，有太多的'为什么'，它们相互矛盾。如果欧莫菲是个诚实可靠的人，他为什么将车开离公路？但如果他不可靠的话，他为什么又重新发动了汽车，而当时的情况是已经射出了两发子弹——他这么做，事实上等于救了首相的性命。另外，如果他可靠的话，为什么在离开卡莱·科洛斯后，立刻将车开到了众所周知的德国间谍聚会场所呢？” “这确实是一团糟。”我说。 “让我们给事情理出个头绪来。我们对这两个人的信任和怀疑的地方都在哪里。首先判断一下欧莫菲：他值得怀疑的地方是他开车离开了公路，他出生于克莱尔郡，是个爱尔兰人，他失踪的方式很令人怀疑；他值得信赖的地方是他迅速地再次发动了汽车，挽救了首相的生命，他是位伦敦警察厅的特工。而且，很显然他是肩负上司的特殊使命被安排作首相的司机的，他是一个很受信任的特工。然后，我们再来看看丹尼尔的情况：他令人怀疑的地方并不多，只有两个事实。一个是对他的家族历史和家庭背景，我们一无所知，对他们以前的历史一无所知，再者是他作为一个不错的英国人，他会讲的语言太多了！请原谅我，我的朋友，就语言来说，你的知识远远不够！现在，让我们看一下对他有利的事实。我们掌握的情况是，当他们找到他时，他被施了麻醉剂，堵上了嘴巴，捆住了手脚——这样看来，他似乎很难和此事有什么瓜葛。” “也许是他自己将自己的嘴巴堵上，然后又将自己捆了起来，以逃避嫌疑。” 波洛摇了摇头：“法国警察在这种事情上是不会出问题的。另外，他一旦实现了他的目的，首相被安全地绑架了之后，他再留在那里是没有多大用处的。当然，他的同伙有可能会给他施麻醉剂并堵上他的嘴，但我看不出他们这样做的意图是什么。首相被绑架之后，他对他们来说就没有什么用处了。因为他在有关首相失踪的案件被调查清楚之前，他肯定会被严密地监视起来。” “也许他是希望给警察制造一个假现场。” “那他为什么不早些这样做呢？他只是说有东西压住了他的鼻子和嘴巴，然后，便失去了知觉。他没有制造什么假象，这听起来很符合事实。” “啊，”我看了一眼时钟说，“我想我们最好马上动身去车站。在法国，你可能会找到更多的线索。” “可能吧，我亲爱的朋友，但我有些怀疑，对我来说，在那个可疑地区的范围内，至今没有发现首相是很难使人相信的，要把他藏匿起来可不是件容易的事。可以说是困难重重。如果两个国家的军队和警察都找不到他，我又怎么能找到他呢？” 到了卡莱·科洛斯，我们又见到了道奇先生。 “这位是巴恩斯侦探，伦敦警察厅的；这位是罗曼少校，他们俩完全由您来指挥。祝您好远。这件事很糟糕，但我还没有放弃希望。现在必须出发了。”说完，那位大臣疾步走开了。 我们和罗曼少校随便塞暄了几句。在站台上的一小圈人的中间，我认出了一个矮个子正和一位高大英俊的男人谈话，那人就是波洛的老朋友——贾普警察，他被公认是伦敦警察厅里最聪明、最优秀的警官之一。他走过来，热情地问侯我的朋友。 “我听说你也参与了这项非常棘手的工作。到目前为止，他们还能很严实地掩盖着这一切，但我不会相信他们能将首相藏得太久。我们的人正准备在法国境内实施一次严密的搜索行动，法国警方也在这么做。现在，我认为找到首相只是一个时间早晚的问题。” “应该如此，如果他还活着的话。”那位高个子侦探巴恩斯阴沉着脸说。 贾普的脸也沉了下来：“是的。但是不知怎么回事儿，我总觉得首相还活着，而且安然无恙。” 波洛点点头：“是的，是的，他还活着。但怎样才能及时地找到他呢？我，和你一样，也不相信他能被藏很久。” 哨声响了，我们排队上了火车。然后，拖着一阵慢慢的、不情愿的汽笛，火车开动了。那是一次奇特的旅行。伦敦警察厅的人围在一起，将法国北部的各种地图放在面前，手指急切地对着上面星罗棋布的村庄和密密麻麻的公路指指点点，每个人都有自己的理由和看法。波洛这次一点也不像以往那样能言善辩，他只是静静地端坐在那里，双眼凝视着前方，脸上的表情像个茫然不知所措的孩子。我和罗曼谈了一会儿，发现他很令人愉快。到达丹佛时，波洛的行为引起了我的极大兴趣，当这个矮个子登上船的甲板时，两只胳膊紧紧地抱着我的肩膀。海风吹得正急。 “天啊，”波洛喃喃低语道，“这真是可怕。” “振作起来，波洛，”我叫道，“你会成功的，你会找到他，对此我深信不疑。” “啊，我亲爱的朋友，你误解了我的意思，是这可恶的海！晕船啊——这是多么可怕的痛苦。” “噢！”我很窘迫。 听到了发动机的第一声震动声，波洛呻吟着，紧紧闭上了他的眼睛。 “如果你要看的话，罗曼上校那儿有张法国北部的地图。” 波洛不耐烦地摇了摇头。 “不，不！让我安静一下，我的朋友。看看你，再想想我，你的胃和大脑和肯定非常协调一致。雷沃格有一套对付晕船的很有效的办法，就像这样慢慢地，深深地吸气——呼气，慢慢地这样——将头从左边转到右过，在两次呼吸之间数六下。” 我离开他上了甲板，他独自做晕船操。 当船慢慢驶入布伦港的时候，波洛又出现了，衣着整洁，面带微笑，向我低声宣布雷沃格的那套晕船效果惊人，非常成功。 贾普的食指还在地图上搜索着那些路线。“真荒唐！首相的汽车从布伦驶出，在这里，他们分开了。现在，依我看来，他们把首相装入了另外一辆车，明白了吗？” “噢，”那位高个子警官答道，“我坚持继续严密监视各个口岸，十有八九是他们将他绑架到了一艘船上。” 贾普摇了摇头，说，“这样做太显眼了，何况当时已有立即封锁口岸的命令。” 当我们上岸时，天刚破晓。罗曼少校扶住波洛的胳膊：“这儿有一辆军车正等候您的吩咐，先生。” “谢谢您，先生，不过，我现在还不打算离开布伦。” "what?" “是的，我们要住到这家靠近码头的旅馆里。” 他真的说做就做，到那家旅馆里定了一个单间。我们三个人跟在他后面，对他此举迷惑不解。 他飞快地看了我们一眼：“这样不符合一个好侦探的做法，对吗？我知道你们是这样想的。一个好侦探应该充满活力，他应该跑前跑后；应该在弥漫着尘土的公路上把自己折腾得精疲力竭，用一个放大镜搜索每一点可疑的痕迹，追踪汽车轮胎的印痕；他应该搜集被子扔掉的烟头和用过的火柴……对吗？这就是你们的想法，是不是？” 他挑衅地看着我们说：“但是我赫尔克里·波洛就要告诉你们，一个好侦探是不这么做的！真正的线索应该在里面——这儿！”他拍拍他的前额，“明白吗？我根本就不必离开伦敦，对我来说，安安静静地坐在我的房间里就足够了，所有的问题都在这里面的这个小小的大脑里，它们悄悄地、神秘地行使着自己的职责，直到突然叫人拿来一张地图，我用我的手指定一个地点——这样——我说：'首相就在那里！'就是这样！通过演绎、推理和逻辑分析，一个人就可以做成任何事情！这次紧张忙乱地一头扎到法国来是个错误——就像是小孩在玩捉迷藏的游戏，但是现在，虽然可能为时过晚，我还是要立刻着手按照正确的途径开始工作。从大脑里面做起。安静下来，我的朋友们，求求你们。” 整整长达五个小时的时间内，这个小个子坐在那里一动不动，瞪着的眼睛像猫眼一样不停地眨着，他的绿眼睛变得越来越绿。伦敦警察厅的警官显然对此嗤之以鼻，罗曼少校也觉得乏味而显得不耐烦，我也发现时间慢得令人厌倦。 最后，我站起身，尽可能悄无声息地踱步来到窗前。事情正在变成一场闹剧，我暗暗替我的朋友担心，如果他失败了，我倒希望他失败得不是这样令人可笑。透过窗户，我看到外面每天都要离岸的船只向外喷吐着浓浓的烟雾，慢慢地驶离港口。 突然，我被波洛的声音打断了。 “朋友们，我们出发了！” 我转过身来，发现我的朋友容光焕发，他的眼睛激动地闪着光，胸膛剧烈地起伏着。 “我一直都像是个盲者，我的朋友们，不过现在，我终于看到了光明。” 罗曼少校急忙向门口走去：“我来叫车。” “不需要，我用不着它了。感谢上帝，风总算是停了。” “你是说您要步行吗，先生？” “不，年轻的朋友，我可不是圣·彼得。我更喜欢坐船渡海。” “要渡过海去？” “是的，要分清条理，就必须从头开始。这件事情的开头是发生在英国，所以，我们要返回英国。” 三点钟的时候，我们重新回到了卡莱·科洛斯的码头。不顾我们所有人的劝告，波洛一再反复重申从头开始不是浪费时间，而是唯一正确的途径。在路上，他就和罗曼一直在低声交换意见，罗曼迅速处理了许多从丹佛发来的电报。由于罗曼为我们办理的特许通行证，我们在最短的时间内经过了许多地方。在伦敦，一辆警车正等着我们，里面坐着便衣警察，其中一个将一份打印好的名单递给了我的朋友。看到我询问的目光，他解释道： “这是伦敦西部一定范围内的所有地方医院的名单，我是从丹佛发电报来让他们为我准备的。” 我们急速地穿过伦敦的大街小巷，来到了巴斯公路上。一路上，我们经过了很多小的市镇，我渐渐地意识到了我们的目的。我们穿过温莎一直向前走，最后走到了阿斯科特。我的心猛地一跳，阿斯科特就是丹尼尔的姑姑住的地方。我们现在追踪的是丹尼尔，而不是欧莫菲。 我们的车在一幢整齐的小别墅前停住了。波洛跳下了车，摁响了门铃，我看到他为难地皱着眉头，脸上也显得愁容满面，很明显，他自己也不满意。有人出来开门，他被领了进去。不一会儿，他又出来了，迅速钻进车里，用力地摇着头。我的希望开始退去现在已经过了四点钟，即使是他发现了确凿的证据，对丹尼尔提出指控，那又有什么用呢？除非他能让什么人说出他们在法国扣押首相的确切地点。 我们返回伦敦的路上不断地停车，我们不止一次地从大路上转弯，时时在一些小的建筑物前停下。我可以毫不费力地认出我们所停下的地方都是些地方医院，波洛在每个医院里只花几分钟时间，但是每停一次，他的亢奋情绪就增加一分。 他对罗曼低声说了几句什么，罗曼回答道： “是的，如果我们向左调转车头，你就会发现他们正在桥边等候。” 我们上了左边的一条小路，通过车灯，我辨认出有一辆车正等候在路的一旁，上面有两个穿便服的人。波洛走下车，和他们说了几句，然后我们又调转车头向北行驶，那辆车紧紧跟在我们车后面。 我们行驶了一段时间，目标也越来越明确，就是伦敦北部郊区的什么地方。最后，我们来到了一幢很高的房子面前，那座高大的建筑位于距公路不远的地方。 我和罗曼留在车里，波洛和另外一名警官下了车，来到门前摁响了门铃。一个衣着整洁的女仆开了门。那位警官说话了： “我们是警察，我们奉命搜查这幢房子。” 那个女孩尖叫了一声，一个个子高高的漂亮的中年妇女从她身后走了出来： “关上门，埃蒂丝，我看他们像是要入户抢劫的歹徒。” 但是波洛迅速地将他的脚踏进门里，与此同时吹了声口哨，其他的警察立刻蜂拥进那所宅院，并将门紧紧地封锁住。 我和罗曼大约等了有五分钟，正诅咒他们不让我俩参加行动，这时，门重新被打开了，进去的人都出来了，还押着三个俘虏——一个女人和两个男人。那个女人和其中一个男人被带到了后面的车上；另一人被波洛亲自押着上了我们的车。 “我们必须和其他人一起走，我的朋友。不过，一定要特别照顾这位先生。你不认识他，对吗？好了，让我来给你做一下介绍，这位是欧莫菲先生！” 欧莫菲！我们的车重新启动的时候，我惊奇地张大嘴巴，瞪着他看，他并没有戴手铐，但是我想象得出他是不会试图逃跑的，他坐在那里，眼睛盯着前方，好像是茫然不知所措。不管怎样，我和罗曼对付他还是绰绰有怎么着。 使我奇怪的是我们还是一直保持向北的方向行驶，这么说，我们不是要返回伦敦了！我更加迷惑不解。突然，车放慢了速度，我认出来了，我们已经接近了汉顿·哈雷杜姆。我立刻猜到了波洛的想法，他想乘飞机去法国。 这倒不失为一个高妙的主意。只是从事实上看，这并不实用，发封电报会比我们亲自去快得多，时间就是一切。他应该把营救首相的光荣留一点儿给别人分享。 当车停下来时，罗曼少校跳下车，一个便衣警察坐到了他的位子上，和波洛交谈了几分钟，然后立即离开了。 我也下了车，抓住了波洛的胳膊。 “我祝贺你，老朋友！他们给你讲了首相的藏身这处了吧？但是，你看，你应该立刻向法国方面发电。如果你亲自去的话，那就为时过晚了。” 他莫名其妙地看了我一两分钟。 “不幸的是，我的朋友，有些事情是不能用发电报来做的。” 我们正说话的时候，罗曼少校回来了，他身旁还跟着一位身穿空军制服的军官。 “这是雷尔上尉，他将护送您飞往法国，你们立刻起飞。” “请您穿暖和点儿，先生，”那位年轻的飞行员说，“如果您愿意的话，我可以借给您一件大衣。” 波洛看了看他那只大怀表，喃喃自语地说：“是的，还有时间——时间刚刚来得及。”然后，他抬头对那位年轻的军官礼貌地略一躬身，“我谢谢您，先生。不过，坐您飞机的人不是我，而是这位先生。” 他说话的时候，朝旁边挪了一步，一个黑影从黑暗中走过来。来人原是被带到另一辆车上的那个男俘虏。当灯光照到他脸上的时候，我不禁大吃一惊。 他原来就是首相！ “看在上帝的份上，请将事情的来龙去脉告诉我吧。”当然，波洛和罗曼驱车返回伦敦时，我终于