"But he is dead, monsieur," the Commissioner protested.
"Doubtless," Hunterleys agreed, "but there is also the chance that he was murdered, isn't there?"
"Murdered!"
Monsieur Picard held up his hands in horror. The Commissioner of Police smiled in derision.
"But, monsieur," the latter pointed out, "who would take the trouble to murder a poverty-stricken tailor's assistant!"
"And in my hotel, too!" Monsieur Picard intervened.
"The thing is impossible," the Commissioner declared.
"Beyond which it is ridiculous!" Monsieur Picard added.
Hunterleys sat quite silent for a moment.
"Monsieur the Commissioner," he said presently, "and Monsieur Picard, I recognise your point of view. Believe me that I appreciate it and that I am willing, to a certain extent, to acquiesce in it. At the same time, there are considerations in this matter which I cannot ignore. I do not wish to create any disturbance or to make any statements likely to militate against the popularity of your wonderful hotel, Monsieur Picard. Nevertheless, for personal reasons only, notwithstanding the verdict of your doctor, I should like for one moment to examine the body."