"The Dream" is one of the more cleverly contrived murder cases that Hercule Poirot has solved. And, it's another one that Chief Inspector Japp and others conclude early on as a suicide. All of Poirot's usual sidekicks are in this episode of Agatha Christie's famous Belgian super sleuth. And, Poirot credits Miss Lemon with the key to his unlocking the mysterious murder.
Poirot is genuinely stumped for some time and fears that his little grey cells are beginning to fail him. This murder is set in an industrial area where England's largest pie maker has his business. There are a number of funny lines. Here are some favorites.
Hercule Poirot, "Hastings, to say that Benedict Farley makes pies is like saying that Wagner wrote semiquavers." Captain Hastings, "Well, they're good pies, then?" Poirot, "No. Horrible! But there are a great many of them."
Captain Hastings, "Useful, eh, living above the shop? I suppose from here, Farley liked to keep an eye on his employees." Hercule Poirot, "No doubt. But it is a pity that such diligence does not improve the quality of his so-called delectables."
Hercule Poirot, "Ah, I see. So, when Hercule Poirot is concerned, there arises immediately a suspicion of murder?" Chief Inspector Japp, "Precisely."
Captain Hastings, "This is not like you, Poirot." Hercule Poirot, "But this is not like the grey cells, Hastings. I have given them every chance. They have been closeted. I have slept to allow them to do their work. I have eaten fish for breakfast. Result? Nothing!" Hastings, "It'll come, Poirot. The little grey cells have never let you down yet." Poirot, "Ah, but is this not an indication, perhaps, of what is in store? A sign that they are weakened by old age and the fast living?" Hastings, "Fast living, Poirot? I wouldn't call your life exactly fast." Poirot, "Oh, not now, perhaps, Hastings, but in my youth." Hastings, "Really?" Poirot, shaking his head, "Umm." Hastings, "Really?" Poirot, "See, one pays, Hastings. Eventually, one is called to settle one's account." Hastings, "I say." Poirot, "I shall have another tisane."