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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of these was not one of the clues at the crime scene?

2. What does Poirot uncover about Ratchett?

3. Where are the interviews conducted?

4. What time does Poirot's train depart?

5. What item does Poirot request from the conductor?

Short Essay Questions

1. What was Poirot's reply when MacQueen questioned his identification?

2. How is Ratchett murdered?

3. What did Dr. Constantine find odd about some of Ratchett's wounds?

4. What was unusual about the Count's passport?

5. Why does the train stop in Belgrade?

6. What causes the delay on the train?

7. Why did the Poirot blow powder on to Ratchett's window?

8. What item was found that backed up Mrs. Hubbard's story?

9. What is Poirot's reaction to Ratchett?

10. For what reason is Poirot's berth changed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Poirot took an instant dislike to Ratchett saying that he did not like the man's face. Poirot also refused to take Ratchett's case saying that he didn't need the money enough to take a case he wasn't interested in pursuing regardless of the reward. Explain what Poirot meant by the initial comment about his dislike of Ratchett. Do you think the reaction was due to instinct, training or experience? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

One of the most telling clues in the case was that Ratchett was stabbed 12 times. Do you think the number was a metaphor for the number of people on a jury? Who do you think delivered the fatal blow(s)? Would the number of murderers been evident if all wounds were inflicted at the same height or using the same hand (right or left)?

Essay Topic 3

Dr. Constantine had a low opinion of Foscarelli. The doctor thought that Foscarelli could easily be responsible for the murder due to his nationality. What were Dr. Constantine's reasons for making such a statement? Do you think that the reputation of the Italians is justified? Is the prejudice still practiced today?

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This section contains 498 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample