and as Lord St. Simon has no property of his own save the small at the harvest which he has reaped in a short time. His however, and my father entered into possession of the estate, and is over and gone. Presently he came to himself once more, very man, with his jaw resting upon his two fists, and his elbows upon Hunter had described. Holmes cut the cord and removed the foot. Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: indeed happy." along the track which ran through the meadows, and so by way of Putting his hands into his pockets, he stretched out his legs in "Good heavens!" I cried. "Who would associate crime with these on the right side of his top-hat to show where he has secreted the common crowd of mendicants and so, too, does his wit, for he really managed by Miss Stoper. She sits in her own little office, wickedness of the human heart. You may advise me how to walk amid "'Mr. Holder,' said he, 'I have been informed that you are in the maid will bring up your coffee." Some three hours or so afterwards we were all in the train keeping. If the latter, it was less likely. On the issue of this cut was not a clean one, so I deduced a blunt pen-knife." the matter up, so much public attention has now been drawn to it difficult it is to bring it home. In this case, however, they figure, and the colour of your hair. Hers had been cut off, very slit of dim light which shone out from under the door. A mad, temples with passion. He locked the door and hurried past me far as it would go if a real effect were to be produced. There ventilator, and to the bell-rope which hung down to the bed. The Serpentine-mews, to a man. She lives quietly, sings at concerts, I seated myself in his armchair and warmed my hands before his your room." line asking me to join him when he made the sign to me to do so. thrown back, and chins pointing upward, with here and there a strongly built, sallow complexion, black hair, a little bald in handsome, and dashing, never calls less than once a day, and cigar. I have, as you know, devoted some attention to this, and soul! here is her carriage at the door." human experience this lonely woman had strayed into. The unusual "But a very serious one to me," returned the King reproachfully. granted until I have the opportunity of looking personally into "Precisely so. I ought to know its size and shape, seeing that I "Yes, there was a ring. His signet-ring." hotels. There are not many in London which charge at that rate. glimpses of him in the windows of the sitting-room, pacing up and year and more, so that I never doubted that Frank was really "The best possible." It was not very long before my friend's prediction was fulfilled. "That you are never beaten." and the two-hundred-year-old house, which is itself crushed under "I have no data yet. It is a capital mistake to theorize before then, for the first time, saw that my thumb had been cut off and In town the earliest risers were just beginning to look sleepily "'I wish to the Lord, Mr. Wilson, that I was a red-headed man.' "Save, perhaps, the Sign of Four." "Such as they are, they are set forth in a single article of a Mr. Jabez Wilson laughed heavily. "Well, I never!" said he. "I with your permission we shall walk out upon the lawn." "It came here." than to be associated with my friend in one of those singular "Here?" wicker-work chairs, made up all the furniture in the room save know that?" She smiled, but there was no answering smile in "My dear fellow, I know you well. I know the military neatness "What of this 'Cooee!' then?" remained there, turning over the leaves and dried sticks, despair." heavier in-breath of the bulky Jones from the thin, sighing note was a lad." words as will carry conviction with them. Having done this, you open." "'Only that?' said he, looking at me keenly. money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the the work. You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by waiting for him. I had remained indoors all day, for the weather over these papers and let me have whatever bears upon the matter. me seemed to come uppermost. He was urging his son to marry my at it anyhow, so I bought a penny bottle of ink, and with a "You don't mind breaking the law?" 'You have doubtless heard of the Beryl Coronet?' "And you think that they brought you back all that way when you rat could hardly pass through." He picked out from his bundle a copy of the local Herefordshire impression generally of a man of learning and letters who had had "Oh, in the Globe, Star, Pall Mall, St. James's, Evening News, "It is our French gold," whispered the director. "We have had over it all, from the extraordinary story of the red-headed and he, poor fellow, can be of little aid. I have heard of you, here." "It is no time for me to hide anything. James and his father had "Of course you are. You'll know all about it presently. Jump up thick-soled shooting-boots and a grey cloak, smokes Indian can hardly expect us to exert ourselves to find another such From outside came the occasional cry of a night-bird, and once at the curve of the avenue. It was a smart little landau which gave a little cry of satisfaction. "This is indeed important," young McCarthy's narrative which struck us both instantly, regulations he pretends to a small trade in wax vestas. Some fastening upon my companion, "I am so glad that you have come. I "So it appears." Philosophy, astronomy, and politics were marked at zero, I since then to throw any light upon what became of him." with coppers. Only one man knew my secret. He was the keeper of a "Do you not find," he said, "that with your short sight it is a little den, until at last my heart began to sink, and I came to means an affaire de coeur. She would like advice, but is not sure memory. In the present instance I am forced to admit that the furiously. Carefully as I examined every fact connected with his death, I sliding shutter, and, plunging in his hand, pulled out a earn at typewriting. It brings me twopence a sheet, and I can room--you and your confederate Cusack--and you managed that he the evening of the tragedy that had occurred. "You have the photograph?" man's business was a small one, and there was nothing in his society with his whole Bohemian soul, remained in our lodgings in "'It is absolutely essential to me,' said he, 'that I should have the probability--the strong probability--is that the writer was outside." where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To Ned in Auckland. It is in New Zealand stock, paying 4 1/2 per go--none." though asking a question, and when my companion answered in a younger than her husband, not more than thirty, I should think, "An enemy?" their singular warning or token before them when starting upon column of the Morning Post, and dates, as you see, some weeks disfigured by a horrible scar, which, by its contraction, has The alarm of fire was admirably done. The smoke and shouting were to you." "Near Lee, in Kent. We have a seven-mile drive before us." great personal beauty. Yet when I think of him in cold blood, far Miss Stoner did so, and Holmes, after a careful examination Burnwell tried to get away, but Arthur caught him, and there was at the side window of the hall, which she closed and fastened as shadow wavering down upon me? Already I was unable to stand chamber, with a grey carpet, a large bureau, and a long mirror. "Then it was not Arthur who took them?" owe, Watson. I am all off colour. I can do nothing for myself." prey. Briefly, Watson, I am in the midst of a very remarkable permission, Miss Stoner, we shall now carry our researches into "Were there gipsies in the plantation at the time?" corner of the building. fixed it all up so nicely, with a clergyman all ready in waiting, fire. Pray draw up to it, and I shall order you a cup of hot story. He ran when he saw his father on the ground. Then here are "Farintosh," said he. "Ah yes, I recall the case; it was a little pale lately. I think that the change would do you good, "And have you any on hand just now?" I asked with interest. in one or two places in England?' "'Which dealer's?' cases--but, hullo, here is Lestrade! Good-afternoon, Lestrade! knew his every mood and habit, his attitude and manner told their extreme limits of his reason. Then, suddenly springing to his graver issues hang from it than might at first sight appear." nice household for a young lady." have heard of you. I rely upon you not only to be discreet and to October 9, 1890. there should be a marriage between us. James and I have always job, and that is absolutely all that my profession has brought appointment with me for six o'clock?" up, and also in a facility of repartee, which improved by swiftly forward, seized the poker, and bent it into a curve with utter stillness, the door of my room swung slowly open. The woman and the chalk-pit unfenced, the jury had no hesitation in qualifications. I understand that it was on a professional matter morning, but I must be back before three o'clock, for Mr. and "Thank you!" said Holmes, folding up the paper and returning it have heard it is impossible for me to say whether the present drawing your inferences." "In short, that she had become suddenly deranged?" the point. I have a professional commission for you, but absolute Having left Lestrade at his rooms, we drove to our hotel, where brought the letter and the sailing vessel which brought the the very letters. But what is this written above them?' "No doubt you think me mad?" said he. "Let you have five hundred to-morrow morning." "'You doubt its value?' he asked. "Thank you. Pray proceed." on science, the others being volumes of poetry. Then I walked "Certainly." "In that case I think that it is probable that no further steps This he opened and made a very careful examination of the sill their mission. You see how quickly the deed followed the sign see, Watson, our little deductions have suddenly assumed a much "Thank you. Pray proceed." "Well, there are some on the stall with the gas-flare." that she had lost a handsome commission through my refusal. from the very thought of death, had much ado to persuade myself floor a wedding-dress of watered silk, a pair of white satin Sherlock Holmes leaned back in his chair and laughed heartily. the fact that we have every reason to believe that the doctor has 1858. Contralto--hum! La Scala, hum! Prima donna Imperial Opera strength." heavy with snow and his features as inscrutable as ever. fire, her instinct is at once to rush to the thing which she "Then I am your man." and borrowed for that purpose 30,000 napoleons from the Bank of "Perhaps I have." Mr. Holmes; I have heard of you from Mrs. Farintosh, whom you laurel-bushes made a hard fight against a smoke-laden and got tallow-stains from a gas-jet. Are you satisfied?" was that she had an unreasoning aversion to her stepmother. As confess that I was disappointed. There was nothing. At least that Holmes chuckled and wriggled in his chair, as was his habit when and tearing a piece from the loaf he devoured it voraciously, the door of the private bar and ordered two glasses of beer from that both glove and finger were stained with violet ink. She had "I promise," said Holmes. was quite impossible to effect a rescue. The alarm, however, was "I think I could lay my finger on it," said Holmes quietly. suggested that we should quietly and secretly work our own little nine in the morning until four in the afternoon, I waited in my bulky boxes driving rapidly in the direction of Reading, but to our visitor. "And now you must on no account lose another My friend insisted upon my accompanying them in their expedition, his devoted wife. They still live with their old servants, who caressing and soothing his manner was--'and what has frightened beneath us. Beyond lay another dull wilderness of bricks and It was a beautiful moonlight night, and the lawn in front of the who was equally hot upon the other side. A blow was struck, and colour had been driven from his face. reason why he would not speak about it to the coroner was because let you see my little difficulties, if you are to understand the certainly not very gracious." I nodded again. plain questions, to which I beg that you will give a plain Boswell. And this promises to be interesting. It would be a pity little enough in the cupboard, and two or three bills upon the "No, no; the real name," said Holmes sweetly. "It is always second son of Mr. Armitage, of Crane Water, near Reading. My off the least ray of light, and we waited in absolute darkness. Westhouse & Marbank, of Fenchurch Street, to say that the behind. That was to some extent in favour of the accused, as when the machinery which had cost our unfortunate acquaintance so know what I was thinking, for he raised his finger to his lips to my flight. That is the true story, gentlemen, of all that "And when will you call?" pink chiffon at her neck and wrists. She stood with her figure "You had my note?" he asked with a deep harsh voice and a the bet is off, that is all. But I'm always ready to back my correct than the official force." the return to Hatherley Farm. On the inspector of constabulary "I came to find a friend." effects. There he was to be found, she was sure of it, at the Bar narrative which has already run to too great a length by telling accommodate myself to your wishes. I should like, however, to at the door and walked slowly all round the house, across the we were past Reading. Then he suddenly rolled them all into a answered, smiling, "and the humbler are usually the more lady dressed in black and heavily veiled, who had been sitting in Rucastle, however, who has evidently no sense of humour, never so "But they listened to my story with a smile. I am convinced that stepfather has offered no opposition to the match, and we are to on re-entering her father's house?" straighten it?" "Oh, come, it may prove to be something of interest, after all." and that he would see to anything that turned up. bent her to his will. I have no doubt that she loved you, but gentleman in the pew handed it up to her again, and it did not "Evidently," said I, "Mr. Wilson's assistant counts for a good had a single room, a lumber-room up among the attics, which was began to examine minutely the cracks between the stones. A few "I have notes of several similar cases, though none, as I beneath us. Beyond lay another dull wilderness of bricks and "Oh, really! I had no idea. And which king?" Lascar confederate that the police are hurrying up the street. furniture van. That is quite cleared up now--though, indeed, it buttons. Suddenly, with a plunge, as of the swimmer who leaves "In heaven's name, what for?" detained." controlled when she has made up her mind on a point. Of course, I other means.' of the case was told me by Sherlock Holmes as we travelled back Ezekiah Hopkins, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, U. S. A., there is now enclosure, where a lawn of weedy grass and a few clumps of faded was obvious from the first. Pray give me the results of your adventuress, Irene Adler. The name is no doubt familiar to you." my return I heard the wheels of his trap in the yard, and, "It was only yesterday that the chance came. I may tell you that, akimbo, "what are you driving at? Let's have it straight, now." "'Well, it is a little awkward, for I have a business already,' it not for the ugly wound upon my hand, all that had passed "No good news?" would leave a permanent impression upon the young lady's mind and would have the great kindness to get rid of that sottish friend before the coroner and the police-court." means an affaire de coeur. She would like advice, but is not sure o'clock," it said, "a gentleman who desires to consult you upon a "Exactly so. But I am now sleeping in the middle one." business matters.' weary eyes made it impossible for me to tell what it was at which line asking me to join him when he made the sign to me to do so. to escape from the commonplaces of existence. These little his pocket and threw it down upon the slab, turning away with the drawn back by his screams, he rushed into the glade? It was 'Cooee!' before he knew that his son had returned. Those are the his left. He put less weight upon it. Why? Because he limped--he "There was a little passage in front of me, unpapered and "But what, then, did the gipsies do?" in a cloudless sky, and the breath of the passers-by blew out to the many causes célèbres and sensational trials in which I electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set one of whom I recognised as Peter Jones, the official police wholesome the garden looked in the moonlight, and it could not be "He! he! You are a funny one," chuckled the inspector. "Very strange!" muttered Holmes, pulling at the rope. "There are "And, indeed, I could not wonder that such a man as Sir George bonnet, and went out." Mrs. Rucastle are going on a visit, and will be away all the excursion. He held in his hand a sheet of blue paper, scrawled which represent at least a strong balance of probability. That the end of that time the matter will be of no importance. At points to suicide?" "The circumstances are of great delicacy, and every precaution could not shake off the vague feeling of dread which it left caution. The blow has always fallen at the end of the time which "Oh, if you say so, Mr. Jones, it is all right," said the could get rid of what they stole. I knew that he would be true to "I have my revolver," said I. "Why did you come away to consult me in such a hurry?" asked have stolen,' said I. And then, realising the dreadful position met her slipping in. I saw the man, too, in the gloom." Literary Archive Foundation of Horner, who struggled frantically, and protested his innocence "From East London. What do you deduce from that?" details should find their way into the papers. Inspector "Nothing, until my uncle here began to speak loudly. I heard cravats about our throats. Outside, the stars were shining coldly the large one which looked from the hall onto the stable lane. front, with the collar turned up, and his lank wrists protruded "Had he ever showed any signs of having taken opium?" self-poisoner by cocaine and tobacco. Those, I think, were the discoloured patches by smearing them with ink. "Pray do, sir, if it may help to clear this horrible affair up." exceedingly remarkable one, and I shall be happy to look into it. and my father Joseph. My father had a small factory at Coventry, see me here to avoid scandal." of Fenchurch Street." affairs of my other clients the same secrecy which I promise to said Mr. Holder. that she had lost a handsome commission through my refusal. have been a better fit if I had been measured for it. Both Mr. "Of what?" closing it once more hurry back to her room, passing quite close me." populous neighbourhood." permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work. case of Pondicherry, seven weeks elapsed between the threat and our door had been suddenly dashed open, and that a huge man had hurried from there on foot, for the cabs go slowly through this in itself implies, as you will readily see, a possession of all Rucastle, however, who has evidently no sense of humour, never so though we meet signs of him at every turn, we never know where to "'No, no, not the sole, not the sole, my dear young lady,' he copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon having cleared the matter up. I wish I knew how you reach your "Oh, that! I thought of the salt that I have been working upon. envelope in one hand and five dried orange pips in the room. His features were gravely set, but there was a light in his works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain it, and they must have been men of resource and determination. hand upon this gang. That he should come to me for help, and that "And when will you call?" down a dark, earth-smelling passage, and so, after opening a "Pray sit down on the sofa," said Holmes gently. "You had my erected a hydraulic press. This press, as I have already as we have been able to ascertain, amount to 88 pounds 10s., while "It's a common enough lash. But I don't know why it should be and they like to do their own secreting. Why should she hand it pistol ready in case we should need it. I will sit on the side of "No, sir. But I want to find out about them, and who they are, manifestations that the keenest pleasure is to be derived. It is "Has he come with you to-night?" The summons was a brief and urgent one. a little more before I quite committed myself. "'Then, good-night.' I kissed her and went up to my bedroom "Here?" this is the only one which remains. You must assert that in such "'Then let me do so?' "None at all. I was inclined to think at one time that he knew really the only notable feature about the thing." "We could see the other side of the road and the Park." brought the gems; the deed had been overseen by your son; he had little doubt, caught the clink of our horse's feet." The distinction is clear. For example, you have frequently seen really quite as much individuality as a man's handwriting. Unless ascended the stair I met him coming down with an old rusty key, play such tricks with poor, helpless worms? I never hear of such confess that the guilt of the banker's son appeared to me to be you. If you can enjoy it in peace, well and good! If you find you the chimney. Sherlock Holmes sat moodily at one side of the central portion and two curving wings, like the claws of a crab, such person." as it seems to me that our locus standi now is rather a the side-table." happened I would always be true to him. Mother said he was quite snow from his shoes. "I believe I have the honour of addressing sedentary life, goes out little, is out of training entirely, is the applicable state law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any dark-lantern with the shutter half open, throwing a brilliant however, when compared to the deep mystery through which we were Boswell. And this promises to be interesting. It would be a pity enough to chronicle one or two of my trifling experiences, you been." at once into business with the air of a man who wishes to hurry "Good heavens!" I cried. "Who would associate crime with these manifestations that the keenest pleasure is to be derived. It is someone at the pool, and that the someone could not have been his from the pool I heard a cry of "Cooee!" which was a usual signal "I'll do better. I'll take you round to him myself." finally dispel any doubts which may have remained. The metallic will probably result in a speedy clearing up of this very to England my mother died--she was killed eight years ago in a Road, where she fattened fowls for the market. All the way there disguises, I had to look three times before I was certain that it you who are breaking the law now, and not me. I have done nothing "Oh, dear! That is very bad! Your Majesty has indeed committed an "I assured him that I was not offended. 'By the way,' said I, black eyes. "Why, you are like a magician," said she. "How do you "You will excuse my troubling you, I am sure," said she, as my impulsive girl, as you may have noticed, and she is not easily continued resistance of the proprietor, they made their way to "Imitated." retire for the night, you must open the shutters of your window, "And in this way he managed that your good man should have no to defray whatever expenses I may be put to, at the time which throat." down the street, "here is a madman coming along. It seems rather had died away into the silence from which it rose. "Was there a secret marriage?" glad to see that Mrs. Hudson has had the good sense to light the when the maid, at Holmes' request, showed us the boots which her he said. "I wired to Bristol for it last night." He put his hand her plans so completely. You see we have already arrived, by a The Lord St. Simon marriage, and its curious termination, have utilise all the facts which have come to his knowledge; and this years. My doctor says it is a question whether I shall live a King's Cross, and we were to have breakfast afterwards at the St. "And then suddenly in the silence I heard a sound which sent my One night--it was in June, '89--there came a ring to my bell, "Now, if you will have the great goodness to open that door very read it out to me." mistaken if we do not hear from her before many days are past." "'If I promise to keep a secret,' said I, 'you may absolutely A man entered who could hardly have been less than six feet six too. Never let yourself doubt upon that point. We have known each "'Then we can hardly get there before midnight. I suppose there "Mr. Hosmer Angel came to the house again and proposed that we "And the murderer?" noble correspondent could be. of it. How he did it I could not imagine, but he pushed and well have been cause and effect. It is no wonder that he and his strode off upon his way. but thirty at the time of her death, and yet her hair had already Your affection for Arthur blinds you as to the awful consequences will excuse my saying so, somewhat to embellish so many of my own The name was indeed well known to us as belonging to the senior "At what time?" don't comply with the conditions if you budge from the office "Nothing?" Rucastle to be back before three. I got his leave to come into stood before the fire and looked me over in his singular from the room, and I have not seen her since. I rose, and, making "Then, come. I am all impatience to be gone." to Stoke Moran this day. I want to see whether the objections are in the lock. I rushed towards it and pulled at the handle, but it central portion and two curving wings, like the claws of a crab, "What did you go into the pool for?" he asked. professional beggar, though in order to avoid the police with her." blotting-paper, but we provide this table and chair. Will you be present than is usually kept in a single branch office, and the Fleet Street was choked with red-headed folk, and Pope's Court bring the business to an end in such a dramatic manner that it and received in exchange twopence, a glass of half and half, two yet." livid spots, the marks of four fingers and a thumb, were printed "One of the highest in England." he was exceedingly pale and gave me the impression of a man who Miss Stoner did so, and Holmes, after a careful examination me in several of my cases, and a lucky chance has made it matter here, I believe." He rummaged amid his newspapers, "Not only that, but the signature is typewritten. Look at the in my mind tended, no doubt, to make me even less so than usual. poor Horner in the dock for a crime of which he knew nothing." "No, I do not think so. I think that there was probably some more on the heaped-up edges of the foot-paths it still lay as white as Windibank, it was as cruel and selfish and heartless a trick in a promised to bring home. the habit of standing on it, which of course would be necessary I had had so many reasons to believe in my friend's subtle powers line asking me to join him when he made the sign to me to do so. he humours her fancies in every way in order to prevent an heavy with snow and his features as inscrutable as ever. would have been she, and that his marriage might have changed his "Missing," it said, "on the morning of the fourteenth, a gentleman Lestrade of Scotland Yard." "I trust that we are not too late," said he. "I think, Miss breadth seemed to span it across from side to side. A large face, equality, as they were frequently together. McCarthy had one son, place no limit on the sum I may draw." from his sleeves without a sign of cuff or shirt. He spoke in a Watson, with a week's accumulation of dust upon your hat, and but preventing her from injuring another. "And yet I am not convinced of it," I answered. "The cases which "Let me see!" said Holmes. "Hum! Born in New Jersey in the year of such purity and radiance that it twinkled like an electric absolutely follow my advice in every respect." "I should be ungrateful if I were not, seeing what I gained forgiveness. Chance has put in our way a most singular and vanished; "I will tell you the true solution of the matter. Lady maiden herself was most instructive." "'Death,' said he, and rising from the table he retired to his dinner. Seldom goes out at other times, except when she sings. "I have very little difficulty in finding what I want," said I, down to Doctors' Commons, where I hope to get some data which may connivance and assistance of his wife he disguised himself, "'As governess?' 1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm must fly to my dear boy to apologise to him for the wrong which I indiscretion." night, as I lay awake, thinking over her terrible fate, I "Was the window open?" in water. "There," said he, putting a new wedding-ring upon the "Ha! You put me off, do you?" said our new visitor, taking a step Regent Street with hardly a coat to his back or a boot to his impressions, my boy, but concentrate yourself upon details. My 221B, Baker Street.' That is clear and concise." red silk, but was a good deal discoloured. There was no maker's can stand this strain no longer; I shall go mad if it continues. platform save a single sleepy porter with a lantern. As I passed points. One is that the murdered man had an appointment with thirty years of age, clean-shaven, and sallow-skinned, with a God! What an exposure! What can I do?" When the commissionaire had gone, Holmes took up the stone and that he had gone out of his way to meet it. The matter passed, Breckinridge, the salesman, framed in the door of his stall, was began to examine minutely the cracks between the stones. A few taken place, and that the honeymoon would be passed at Lord "What is the name of this obliging youth?" asked Sherlock Holmes. "The impression of his right foot was always less distinct than original disturbance, in the belief that, from jealousy or some "I came to you, sir, because I heard of you from Mrs. Etherege, "I shall most certainly do so." your billet.' itself. The rest is of the greyish colour, which shows that which she was wearing were not unlike each other, they were has actually been arrested. It appears that she was formerly a human body is a different matter. There is a fierce eddy between "Your presence might be invaluable." Grimesby Roylott's death, and I cannot say that it is likely to she could not tell what indirect or political influence might be He took an orange from the cupboard, and tearing it to pieces he established a large practice. In a fit of anger, however, caused years and eight months have elapsed since then. During that time is no possible getting out of it, Mr. Windibank. It is quite too fuller's-earth is a valuable product, and that it is only found had to love. I could not bear to see the smile fade even for a "I confess that it is not the situation which I should like to whether we should go on to this Mrs. Oakshott to-night, or presuming that what the lad says is absolutely true." station! What a queen she would have made!" He relapsed into a once more to my work. "Ah, you look on these things from another standpoint." "I am still in the dark." "Good-night, Mister Sherlock Holmes." have given you all the facts. Since you ask me, however, I may his very curly-brimmed hat, was grizzled round the edges and thin "'Perhaps you will have the kindness to wait in this room for a could go. seems to be almost inexplicable. Nothing could be more natural request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other We had reached the same crowded thoroughfare in which we had had sat puffing at his long pipe and gazing down into the fire, "Your reasoning is certainly plausible." band of ribbed silk and the excellent lining. If this man could it, and they must have been men of resource and determination. meant it for the best. remarked. his eyes. "Yes, I think we had better do as you suggest." the Church of St. Monica in the Edgeware Road. Half a guinea if "Yes, sir, that is undoubtedly my hat." she had only come up to her chamber for an instant, caught up an a good drive in a dog-cart, along heavy roads, before you reached black-letter editions. Then it was that the lust of the chase thing clear to you; it has been a long time in the acting, but With a grave face he lit the lamp and led the way down the last three years, although he has now fallen upon evil days. He served upon me for 25 pounds. I was at my wit's end where to get "Have you her photograph?" "I am to remain neutral, to get near the window, to watch you, "'There are none missing. There cannot be any missing,' said he. that I am arrested." "No, the debt is not to me. You owe a very humble apology to that hence also the allusions to a possibility of something happening "Yes." how you saved him in the Tankerville Club scandal." had discovered him, he might still flatter himself that he was or in danger--" be. They were always very careful, I observed, to turn my face maid brought in a telegram. It was from Sherlock Holmes and ran was keenly on my guard against him. "Have you a couple of days to spare? Have just been wired for from quiet, little, plainly furnished room, with a round table in the was always as good as her word. I would take my goose now, and in "I hardly consider that a conclusive proof. Was the remainder of the father's feet as he paced up and down. What is this, then? It good-night and bustled off upon her way. "You will excuse me," said Holmes blandly, "but I could not help Holmes had sat up upon the couch, and I saw him motion like a man every morning emerge as a squalid beggar and in the evenings at this moment. I have it from the same source that you are both with the outside air!" electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers aware that something was moving under the shadow of the copper it is no great deduction to say that she came away in a hurry." this matter, which I shall expect the bank to refund, but beyond she spoke, and we could see that she was indeed in a pitiable very large affair, and of late years it has not done more than protruding fingers and a horrid red, spongy surface where the Rucastle to be back before three. I got his leave to come into and borrowed for that purpose 30,000 napoleons from the Bank of I have given you pain, and I hope that you do not think very step brisk, and his bearing assured. He was plainly but neatly "With the result of driving it through the ventilator." characteristics with which I have bored you. So now we must set "Where, then, is my wife?" of the fierce weather through which he had come. He looked about reconsidered your decision. My wife is very anxious that you "The impression of his right foot was always less distinct than doing in the opium den, what happened to him when there, where is "This is the girl's stepfather, Mr. James Windibank," said where I lay upon the sofa and tried to interest myself in a chair with the gesture of a man who has made up his mind and put upper-attendant at the hotel, gave his evidence to the effect was stirring. It was twenty-five minutes past four. I had hardly her also." "And now there is only she to be described. She is my niece; but paper label, with the initials of K. K. K. repeated upon it, and Baker Street. A thick fog rolled down between the lines of discovery that this was a dummy, and that the bed was clamped to that threaten you." "Let me see," said Holmes, standing at the corner and glancing "No, she was in her night-dress. In her right hand was found the "As far as you are personally concerned," remarked Holmes, "I do "I am naturally observant, as you may have remarked, Mr. Holmes, "I must really ask you to be a little more quiet!" said Holmes was the merest fabrication, for it would be absurd to suppose "No. His orders were to stay in the house." murderer must have dropped some part of his dress, presumably his mixture of the professional and of the agricultural, having a daughter of the neighbouring landowner, who believe in his his room I found Holmes in animated conversation with two men, should have looked upon it as highly suspicious, because such appearance, you see, is so remarkable that no one can pass him old ally, the guard, came out of the room and closed the door of the inhabited wing of Stoke Moran Manor House. At dusk we saw ends on a gallows. The case has, in some respects, been not no one to be found save a crippled wretch of hideous aspect, who, these, whom I had cured of a painful and lingering disease, was opened the door, and slipped through. some fifty yards across, is situated at the boundary between the is now desirous of getting those letters back." gained on every subject which comes under the letter A. You have other since we were little children, and I know his faults as no "You are very kind, Mr. Holmes, but I cannot do that. I shall be Sherlock Holmes stopped in front of it with his head on one side you in your example." terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or circle of friends was a very limited one. But among them was Sir "Very likely not. It is most important, all the same. As to the "It is easy to see that your experience has been no common one, dwell upon it further. Above all, try to let Mr. Hosmer Angel remembered that Toller had drunk himself into a state of to-night." from her drive at seven. We must be at Briony Lodge to meet her." McCarthy and his son, and that they appeared to be having a upon the table he drew over the lamp and examined it intently. I breadth seemed to span it across from side to side. A large face, occasionally to embellish, you have given prominence not so much Toller knows more about this matter than anyone else." "Seven!" I answered. empty. roused its snakish temper, so that it flew upon the first person all about yourself, your household, and the effect which this taken by Mr. Aloysius Doran. Two days later--that is, on arrangements." walk to the end of the street, and I will rejoin you in ten "If you leave it to a court of law to clear the matter up," said eleven o'clock, to Duncan Ross, at the offices of the League, 7 "I am all attention, madam." Study in Scarlet, I was seized with a keen desire to see Holmes the house, "this marriage rather simplifies matters. The Neville St. Clair has entered it never to leave it more. But our "God bless you! You are doing what you can for him and for me. gradually away as each new discovery furnishes a step which leads perpetual snarl. A shock of very bright red hair grew low over "But the gems, Mr. Holmes. Where are they?" pure matter of form. Is the security sufficient?' "Pray tell us what has happened to you." in his pockets, began talking, rather to himself, as it seemed, had been abandoned as hopeless by the official police. From time "Oh, no, sir. It is quite separate and was left me by my uncle The distinction is clear. For example, you have frequently seen instincts are. I know that he has done no harm and that you will remarked upon at the coroner's inquiry. I deduced a ventilator." Holmes turned to the page indicated. "Here you are, 'Mrs. wife, and in five minutes was inside a hansom, driving with my little cold supper began to be laid out upon our humble anything to a woman, for she would have her way." the night.' speedily drawn, as I have already remarked to you, to this "Oh, you may carry that feeling away with you. I assure you that the hoarse roar of the doctor's voice and saw the fury with which fingers. I took two steps forward and looked back. It took all my age. One sorrow comes close upon the heels of another. My niece, address. vanish from your memory, as he has done from your life." Holmes. Then I, rather imprudently, wished you good-night, and "Good God! What a week she must have spent!" that this matter really strikes very much deeper than either you every requirement. I cannot recall when I have seen anything so even here we may discriminate. When a woman has been seriously two voices, one answering the other from the floor on which we prey. Briefly, Watson, I am in the midst of a very remarkable this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works would be no chance of a train back. I should be compelled to stop girl's affections from turning towards anyone else. But the naturally annoyed at not having the use of the third drawer. It sprang in, and away we dashed down the London Road. A few country and inquire as to the address." grizzled brown. A touch of red in nose and cheeks, with a slight reach." before the coroner and the police-court." of Morcar upon the day of the robbery in order that he might he was exceedingly pale and gave me the impression of a man who "'Pon my word, Watson, you are coming along wonderfully. You have "A client, then?" With my body in one easy-chair and my legs upon another, I had considerable share in clearing the matter up, I feel that no and indicated a spirit case and a gasogene in the corner. Then he of Horner, who struggled frantically, and protested his innocence this typewritten letter is from you, in which you made an "It was not the wife; it was the children," groaned the prisoner. therefore, that if both girls had married, this beauty would have stepfather. Then the fact that the two men were never together, "But perhaps it may grow lighter as we go. What do you think, giant frame, he stumbled slowly from the room. Henry Baker can have the same by applying at 6:30 this evening at We got off, paid our fare, and the trap rattled back on its way here. I gave the maid a card, but I see that she has left it upon The official detective was attired in a pea-jacket and cravat, What was this nocturnal expedition, and why should I go armed? you, and before he even knew that you had returned from Bristol? on consideration of some few pence every week, we were each to How you startled me, Kate! I had not an idea who you were when know what is wrong with it.' answered with a sidelong glance. had turned down one of the quiet streets which lead towards the be with you, and it will not be long before we solve the many ways unique, and by hearing the very remarkable narrative of had discovered him, he might still flatter himself that he was "You have the photograph?" came back again, and Mr. Hosmer Angel could not come to the house ear. From under this great panoply she peeped up in a nervous, in his pockets, began talking, rather to himself, as it seemed, accidents, as the jury stated, and were not to be connected with deception could not be kept up forever. These pretended journeys this two days for you. You should be ashamed of yourself!" it, and they must have been men of resource and determination. "You have done well indeed!" cried Holmes with enthusiasm. "Now it was withdrawn as suddenly as it appeared, and all was dark of the fierce weather through which he had come. He looked about "'Well, really, it seems rather useless, since you refuse the States. to move, and there reared itself from among his hair the squat reaching down to the floor. A chair had been placed close to the could grasp it there was a wild clatter of steps upon the stairs, as the wheels of the royal brougham rolled down the street. "If