Publisher's Synopsis
Shadowing a suspicious character on the train, Maigret discreetly switches suitcases with his quarry, curious as to what the man is carrying. Upon discovering the loss of his luggage, the man commits suicide. Remorsefully, Maigret opens the suitcase in his possession - but discovers only stained, shoddy clothing, and a suit three sizes too large... A stylishly dressed woman has been found strangled in a stable near a canal. Why did her life come to such a brutal end here? Can her husband shed light on the matter - or do the answers lie with the crew of the barge LA PROVIDENCE?
