"Dear Monsieur Poirot, a word in your ear. The whole world knows that you are a man of enormous discretion and gallantry, a man not only privy to the secrets of kings and prime ministers, but also a man who would never willingly stand by and see a lady in trouble without rushing to her aid. I appeal to you now, as just such a frail woman, in need of help. In fact I throw myself on your mercy. Couldn't we make this a private investigation? You know how peculiar people can be about a spot of murder."