Politeness

Subject: Politeness
Quote:  “These young detectives of the school of Giraud, they are all alike—rude, sneering fellows.  They do not realize that an examining magistrate of my—er—experience is bound to have a certain discernment, a certain—flair.  Enfin! The politeness of the old school is infinitely more to my taste.  Therefore, my dear friend, command me in any way you will.  We know a thing or two, you and I—eh?”
            And laughing heartily, enchanted with himself and with us, M. Hautet bade us adieu.  I am sorry to have to record that Poirot’s first remark to me as we traversed the corridor was:  “A famous old imbecile, that one!  Of a stupidity to make pity!”
Character:  Captain Hasting’s narrative
Chapter/Story: 24—“Save Him!”
Book Title/Copyright:  Murder on the Links, 1923