Strength and Skill Quotes

How we cite our quotes:

Quote #1

"Lie back and think – use (as I have heard you say so often) the little grey cells of the mind – and you will know!" (1.5.141)

Poirot's mental prowess aids his investigation. Here M. Bouc repeats Poirot's famous phrase: "the little grey cells."

Quote #2

She was not even looking at him. Her gaze went past him, out of the window to where the snow lay in heavy masses.

"You are a strong character, Mademoiselle," said Poirot gently. You are, I think, the strongest character amongst us."

"Oh, no. No, indeed. I know one far, far stronger than I am."

"And that is – ?"

She seemed to suddenly come to herself, to realize that she was talking to a stranger and a foreigner with whom, until this morning, she had only exchanged half a dozen sentences. (1.5.63-67)

Mary's calm and collected manner convinces Poirot that she is a "strong character." However, he also sees flaws. What are they?

Quote #3

"Come, my friend," said M. Bouc. "You comprehend what I am about to ask of you. I know your powers. Take command of this investigation!" (1.5.139)

Why does M. Bouc have such faith in Poirot?