The Murder on the Links Read Online Free PDF

think it is possible that it referred in any way to this ‘Bella’ and her threats?”
    Poirot shook his head.
    â€œHardly. A man like Monsieur Renauld, who had led an adventurous life in out-of-the-way places, would not be likely to ask for protection against a woman.”
    The examining magistrate nodded his head emphatically.
    â€œMy view exactly. Then we must look for the explanation of the letter—”
    â€œIn Santiago,” finished the commissary. “I shall cable without delay to the police in that city, requesting full details of the murdered man’s life out there, his love affairs, his business transactions, his friendships, and any enmities he may have incurred. It will be strange if, after that, we do not hold a clue to his mysterious murder.”
    The commissary looked around for approval.
    â€œExcellent!” said Poirot appreciatively.
    â€œYou have found no other letters from this Bella among Monsieur Renauld’s effects?” asked Poirot.
    â€œNo. Of course one of our first proceedings was to search through his private papers in the study. We found nothing of interest, however. All seemed square and aboveboard. The only thing at all out of the ordinary was his will. Here it is.”
    Poirot ran through the document.
    â€œSo. A legacy of a thousand pounds to Mr. Stonor—who is he, by the way?”
    â€œMonsieur Renauld’s secretary. He remained in England, but was over here once or twice for a weekend.”
    â€œAnd everything else left unconditionally to his beloved wife, Eloise. Simply drawn up, but perfectly legal. Witnessed by the two servants, Denise and Françoise. Nothing so very unusual about that.” He handed it back.
    â€œPerhaps,” began Bex, “you did not notice—”
    â€œThe date?” twinkled Poirot. “But, yes, I noticed it. A fortnight ago. Possibly it marks his first intimation of danger. Many rich men die intestate through never considering the likelihood of their demise. But it is dangerous to draw conclusions prematurely. It points, however, to his having a real liking and fondness for his wife, in spite of his amorous intrigues.”
    â€œYes,” said M. Hautet doubtfully. “But it is possibly a little unfair on his son, since it leaves him entirely dependent on his mother. If she were to marry again, and her second husband obtained an ascendancy over her, this boy might never touch a penny of his father’s money.”
    Poirot shrugged his shoulders.
    â€œMan is a vain animal. Monsieur Renauld figured to himself, without doubt, that his widow would never marry again. As to the son, it may have been a wise precaution to leave the money in his mother’s hands. The sons of rich men are proverbially wild.”
    â€œIt may be as you say. Now, Monsieur Poirot, you would without doubt like to visit the scene of the crime. I am sorry that thebody has been removed, but of course photographs have been taken from every conceivable angle, and will be at your disposal as soon as they are available.”
    â€œI thank you, monsieur, for all your courtesy.”
    The commissary rose.
    â€œCome with me, messieurs.”
    He opened the door, and bowed ceremoniously to Poirot to precede him. Poirot, with equal politeness, drew back and bowed to the commissary.
    â€œMonsieur.”
    â€œMonsieur.”
    At last they got out into the hall.
    â€œThat room there, it is the study, hein? ” asked Poirot suddenly, nodding towards the door opposite.
    â€œYes. You would like to see it?” He threw open the door as he spoke, and we entered.
    The room which M. Renauld had chosen for his own particular use was small, but furnished with great taste and comfort. A businesslike writing desk, with many pigeonholes, stood in the window. Two large leather-covered armchairs faced the fireplace, and between them was a round table covered with the latest books and magazines.
    Poirot stood a