死亡约会 Part II Chapter 12（3）

（单词翻译）

Sarah, as always when she remembered her conversation with Mrs Boynton, was blushingacutely.

‘I felt all exalted¹ as though I had a mission! And then later, when Lady W. fixed² a fishy³ eye onme and said she had seen me talking to Mrs Boynton, I thought she had probably overheard, and Ifelt the most complete ass⁴.’

Poirot said: ‘What exactly was it that old Mrs Boynton said to you? Can you remember theexact words?’

‘I think so. They made rather an impression on me. “I never forget,” that’s what she said.

“Remember that. I’ve never forgotten anything—not an action, not a name, not a face.”’ Sarahshivered. ‘She said it so malevolently—not even looking at me. I feel—I feel as if, even now, I canhear her…’

Poirot said gently: ‘It impressed you very much?’

‘Yes. I’m not easily frightened—but sometimes I dream of her saying just those words and herevil, leering triumphant⁵ face. Ugh!’ She gave a quick shiver. Then she turned suddenly to him.

‘M. Poirot, perhaps I ought not to ask, but have you come to a conclusion about this business?

Have you found out anything definite?’

‘Yes.’

He saw her lips tremble as she asked, ‘What?’

‘I have found out to whom Raymond Boynton spoke⁶ that night in Jerusalem. It was to his sisterCarol.’

‘Carol—of course!’

Then she went on: ‘Did you tell him—did you ask him—’

It was no use. She could not go on. Poirot looked at her gravely and compassionately⁷. He saidquietly:

‘It means—so much to you, mademoiselle?’

‘It means just everything!’ said Sarah. Then she squared her shoulders. ‘But I’ve got to know.’

Poirot said quietly: ‘He told me that it was a hysterical⁸ outburst—no more! That he and hissister were worked up. He told me that in daylight such an idea appeared fantastic to them both.’

‘I see…’

Poirot said gently: ‘Miss Sarah, will you not tell me what it is you fear?’

Sarah turned a white despairing face upon him.

‘That afternoon—we were together. And he left me saying—saying he wanted to do somethingnow — while he had the courage. I thought he meant just to — to tell her. But supposing hemeant…’

Her voice died away. She stood rigid⁹, fighting for control.