"Dumb Witness" is a detective fiction novel written by Agatha Christie and first published in 1937. It features her iconic detective character, Hercule Poirot.
The story begins with an unusual incident at the country house of Emily Arundell, an elderly and wealthy woman. Miss Arundell, having had a fall down the stairs, suspects that it was not an accident but an attempt on her life. Despite being dismissed as an accident by her family and the doctors, Miss Arundell writes to Hercule Poirot, expressing her suspicions.
However, before Poirot can intervene, Miss Arundell dies, apparently of natural causes. But Poirot receives a letter from Miss Arundell posthumously, asking him to investigate her death, suggesting that she still harbored doubts about the supposed accident.
Poirot embarks on the investigation with the assistance of his friend Captain Hastings and begins to probe into the lives of Miss Arundell's family members and associates. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers hidden motives, old family secrets, and a web of relationships among the suspects.
One significant piece of evidence in the case is a letter written by Miss Arundell's dog, Bob, suggesting that he could be the "dumb witness" to the events surrounding her death. Poirot recognizes the importance of the dog's actions as a clue that could solve the mystery.
Agatha Christie skillfully employs her trademark plotting skills, incorporating red herrings, deceptive clues, and unexpected twists, leading readers on a captivating journey of mystery and deduction. Poirot's meticulous analysis and astute observations ultimately lead to the unraveling of the truth behind Miss Arundell's demise.
"Dumb Witness" is celebrated for its intricate plot, clever characterizations, and the brilliant deductive reasoning of Hercule Poirot, making it a compelling and classic addition to Agatha Christie's collection of detective novels.
