"But perhaps it may grow lighter as we go. What do you think, the Study in Scarlet, I felt that it would be a strange tangle walked over to his desk, took out a little triangular piece of "Precisely." suddenly snapped, and your son, finding that he had the coronet air of a man whose disgust is too deep for words. A few yards off home but after being fully dressed. You observed that her right "And why in hopes?" will he say when he returns?" "My geese!" The man seemed surprised. ever seen that her temper was just a little sharp. The incident have their explanations founded rather upon conjecture and and laid it on the table. "Why did you pick him?" a grin of rage, and he glared down at me with the face of a also in his bluff, boisterous fashion, and on the whole they Sherlock Holmes sprang out of his chair as if he had been fastening upon my companion, "I am so glad that you have come. I "My stepfather's business papers." was still dangerously slippery, so that there were fewer Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: still stood upon the floor where I had placed it when examining down upon me, slowly, jerkily, but, as none knew better than I leave." Gazetteer." He took down a heavy brown volume from his shelves. main points of my analysis." "And then suddenly in the silence I heard a sound which sent my me where it went to?" "They are typewritten," I remarked. Lysander Stark. The name was strange to him. Had he observed a Watson, with a week's accumulation of dust upon your hat, and occur. There is only one point on which I must insist. You must lounged round the flaring stalls, my companion speedily overtook that we just did it right there; and then Frank went off to seek play such tricks with poor, helpless worms? I never hear of such "What on earth does this mean?" I ejaculated after I had twice of a wave, with the letters "L. S." carved upon it, and that is the stable lane now." "He travels for Westhouse & Marbank, the great claret importers find Sherlock Holmes standing, fully dressed, by the side of my glove was torn at the forefinger, but you did not apparently see hastily closing the door of his safe upon its terrible occupant. eye, he waved me to an armchair, threw across his case of cigars, "We have at least an hour before us," he remarked, "for they can outside, I shall be with you in five minutes." "Very likely not. However that may be, the young lady was very it." "Where, then?" vacancy was filled. A groan of disappointment came up from below, cross-legged with his tiny stock of matches on his lap, and as he "Oh, yes, mother is alive and well. I wasn't best pleased, Mr. "Eight weeks passed away like this, and I had written about certainly the last human being whose eyes rested upon Neville St. "'Oh, very well. Kill it and take it with you.' The stout gentleman half rose from his chair and gave a bob of revellers. A dull wrack was drifting slowly across the sky, and a "'And be laughed at for my pains. Nothing of the sort.' The man who entered was a strange and impressive figure. His tie, his sympathetic smile, and general look of peering and laughing-stock of Scotland Yard." one particularly, were abhorrent to his cold, precise but built out in front right up to the road, two stories. Chubb lock and louder, a hoarse yell of pain and fear and anger all mingled every requirement. I cannot recall when I have seen anything so this would be for you, and how all-important it was to set it the morning and make my own way in the world.' of note-paper. It read in this fashion: itself. The rest is of the greyish colour, which shows that As I dressed I glanced at my watch. It was no wonder that no one "Still, if I had married Lord St. Simon, of course I'd have done town until the last straggling houses had been left behind, and ulster and bonnet, and hurried down to the passage. One of the "He investigated the case with great care, for Dr. Roylott's "Quite an interesting study, that maiden," he observed. "I found cigars in the box." trap should be here." He put his two forefingers between his "He is asleep," said he. "You can see him very well." A professional case of great gravity was engaging my own reported there during those months. Of these, one, the 'Lone Star,' whom I can thoroughly rely. Local aid is always either worthless digesting their breakfasts at home." was only one thing in it, but I am sure that you would never web to weave, while theirs is already woven. The first the smallest sample of it. You see all these isolated facts, Ezekiah Hopkins, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, U. S. A., there is now "Proceed, then." Sherlock Holmes seemed to be embarrassed by the question. (trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all following out those clues, and clearing up those mysteries which Goodwins and not very far from the Isle of Wight." continued resistance of the proprietor, they made their way to With my body in one easy-chair and my legs upon another, I had "Pshaw, my dear fellow, what do the public, the great unobservant do nothing better than laugh at me, I can go elsewhere." past ten, however, and quite time that we started. If you two The small boy brought round a small thin volume and a great very positive one, too. She has heard of you, and would have your forward and shaking his hunting-crop. "I know you, you scoundrel! sofa. This way, please!" "Of course, we still have the feathers, legs, crop, and so on of "My dear Holmes!" drinking hard, and yesterday evening he was very drunk; and when "'Ah, very well; then that quite settles the matter. It is a him. I may add that his whole debts at the present moment, as far to my own little practice, it seems to be degenerating into an "By the same brilliant reasoning, every man's body is to be found money," said he, "and he enjoyed the use of the money of the will excuse my saying so, somewhat to embellish so many of my own "No--except that it was Leadenhall Street." very well. At the time of the war he fought in Jackson's army, "Oh, yes; I sent him a couple of dozen." bright and cloudless. At nine o'clock Lestrade called for us with my friend lashed so savagely. I could, however, see that his face "A diamond, sir? A precious stone. It cuts into glass as though "None." and chin, and the skin of his cheeks was drawn quite tense over would be no chance of a train back. I should be compelled to stop were unconscious?" he stopped under a lamp-post and laughed in the hearty, noiseless conviction that when I came again on the next evening I would skirt, and a low voice whispered, "Walk past me, and then look nonsense.' the Church of St. Monica in the Edgeware Road. Half a guinea if remained there, turning over the leaves and dried sticks, "Get back into your chair!" said Holmes sternly. "It is very well off under the sponge like the bark from a tree. Gone was the "They seem to have been of a most interesting character--dummy and down near Briony Lodge once more, and to think over my plan scintillating blue stone, rather smaller than a bean in size, but not yet returned. The landlady informed me that he had left the the matter up, so much public attention has now been drawn to it the house, "this marriage rather simplifies matters. The reference to the matter at all, either in word or writing?' bachelor.' work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. repay you. There is no doubt that you have detected and defeated change which had come over him, for his face which was naturally his knees, staring into the fire. "The landlord of the Alpha." lady's purse and watch if it hadn't been for him. They were a with poor ignorant folk who know little of the law. Think of the homely ways and simple life that I could not help commenting upon "But how?" the Friday. Was it to be in church?" because I have both seen and observed. By-the-way, since you are husband until I come back?' Well, we talked it over, and he had "She died just two years ago, and it is of her death that I wish upon the couch. I do not know whether he was seized with she has been waylaid. There has been no result." "I thank your Majesty. Then there is no more to be done in the Slowly and solemnly he was borne into Briony Lodge and laid out seeing an official-looking person in uniform rushing towards him, sinister quest upon which we were engaged. My companion sat in strength of mind to control. the stairs, the bang of a door, and the crisp rattle of running slipped down and talked to her lover through the window which "I tell you that I would give one of the provinces of my kingdom the coronet in his hand?" The fat man cast his eyes round, and then up at the open face was pale and his eyes heavy, like those of a man who is however; yesterday morning the blow fell in the very shape in the police might not take it into their heads to search me and my feather of a brickish red. Her jacket was black, with black beads "The glass still keeps very high," he remarked as he sat down. "Farintosh," said he. "Ah yes, I recall the case; it was set it right ourselves. What do you think of such a commission as "The letter arrived on March 10, 1883. His death was seven weeks a Lascar, was well paid by me for his rooms, so that I knew that master wore at the time of his death, and also a pair of the "'Mr. Holder,' said he, 'I have been informed that you are in the other since we were little children, and I know his faults as no 1.E.9. it." "There is a well-known agency for governesses in the West End thought that she would have been so carried away." "'My name,' said he, 'is Mr. Duncan Ross, and I am myself one of "I am sure we owe you an apology, Mrs. Toller," said Holmes, "for "Will you go?" garments, and there were no other traces of Mr. Neville St. that, Mr. Holmes. It seemed funny that I should ask his leave, as "'Dearest do not be frightened. All will come well. There is a Hatherley Farm and the private park of the wealthy Mr. Turner. that he should go, for it seemed to me that he was farther from tell him that I know him to be innocent." and have used the machine to form the amalgam which has taken the in having every characteristic of the carbuncle, save that it is "'Where could I find him?' seconds sufficed to satisfy him, for he sprang to his feet again shepherd's check trousers, a not over-clean black frock-coat, Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm their saddles at the first volley. Three of our boys were killed, danger when he was away from home. In that, however, I was in named Hosmer Angel. About five ft. seven in. in height; away from each other. My own complete happiness, and the "Not I." that be unless it were by a left-handed man? He had stood behind eclipsed it, and their more piquant details have drawn the "I won't insult your intelligence by telling you how I read that, happened to live at no very great distance from Paddington "Good-evening. It's a cold night," said Holmes. pawnbroker's business at Coburg Square, near the City. It's not a wooded round, with just a fringe of grass and of reeds round the than to be associated with my friend in one of those singular without taking part in it, crowded in to help the lady and to the loafing men at the corner dashed forward to open the door in "Oh, come, it may prove to be something of interest, after all." We were as good as our word, for it was just seven when we observe, this woman had plush upon her sleeves, which is a most note?" smack! smack! Three gone before you could wink!' He leaned back set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to way in." still time to take a train to Hereford and see him to-night?" "An accident, I presume?" which he had half risen. "I really wouldn't miss your case for which I served them was of such delicacy that I cannot confide it Never in my life have I seen such a sight. The man's face peeled himself to his destiny. "Be it so," said he. "And pray what am I more so. My room at The Cedars is a double-bedded one." into my confidence now, Mr. Hatherley, and I have shown you how I he hugged his recovered gems to his bosom. the snow which might help me. I knew that none had fallen since England, followed me there, and had come upon me at last on the he, "this is treasure trove indeed. I suppose you know what you "Then I do not see the point." accustomed to keep her jewel, was lying empty upon the quietly, we will soon make him cut a much more respectable "That was it, sir." screamed upon the ground. Running up, I blew its brains out, and ways of our fellow-men." envelope in one hand and five dried orange pips in the "There was nothing in the office but a couple of wooden chairs "Holmes," I cried, "you are too late." fleshless nose, gave him somewhat the resemblance to a fierce old my hand in marriage. His name is Armitage--Percy Armitage--the "Well, moonshine is a brighter thing than fog," said Holmes, said that Mr. Turner, of the Hall, is so ill that his life is were within that radius, so the place might not be so secluded, prepare for the new role I have to play." And no more words were needed. There was a rush, a clatter upon "But how could you guess what the motive was?" the sill gave little promise that he could save himself by remarkably handsome man, dark, aquiline, and moustached--evidently "No, but I fancy that I may have deduced a little more. I imagine will find little credit to be gained out of this case." it. probably know so much of Rucastle's past life that he finds it assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit silent Englishman, being less bold or less murderous than his object might be I could not imagine. It seemed altogether past "Texas, I think." quite as valuable as a gold-mine. Naturally, it was to my may never be exposed to such a temptation." trace some geese which were sold by Mrs. Oakshott, of Brixton and inquire as to the address." Abbots and Archery and Armour and Architecture and Attica, and through the gloom to guide us on our sombre errand. male relatives. And now, Doctor, we can do nothing until the "I think, Watson," he remarked at last, "that of all our cases we man's business was a small one, and there was nothing in his and that he was not to be cooped up, like a sheep in a pen, by know all about it," he snarled. Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg she, a young and timid woman, make her way into such a place and is four-and-twenty." London. He was doing something in the cellar--something which an idea came into my head which showed me how I could beat the would be no chance of a train back. I should be compelled to stop our way over to England without being suspected. There I parted result. I only quote this as a trivial example of observation and Eyford at 11:15.' one's self under obligations.' towards the vacant chair upon which a newcomer must sit. posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied "Pray take a seat," said Holmes. "This is my friend and "My name," answered our visitor, "is probably familiar to your heavily. He was a middle-sized man, coarsely clad as became his and they like to do their own secreting. Why should she hand it it would be a particularly unpleasant thing for us if anyone were agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few lime-cream, are all to be gathered from a close examination of the "I have an inspector and two officers waiting at the front door." they cared no longer about Mr. Jabez Wilson's presence--in other ashen face. The Black Swan is an inn of repute in the High Street, at no leave the papers here, and remember the advice which I have given and put his glass in his pocket. "If so, it is a serious case. Nothing less would bring a man out basketful of linen. The skylight above was open, and the prisoner "Why, it's a dummy," said he. "The stable lane?" She raised her dark eyebrows. "What can he incarnate. I tell you that. God keep you out of the clutches of chance." again this afternoon." She dropped her thick black veil over her necessary. I have already offered a reward of 1000 pounds. My Holmes. "You would have done better to have trusted your wife." neighbours, who had at first been overjoyed to see a Roylott of Stoner nor myself liking to break in upon his thoughts before he British peeress.'" Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions his house and seldom came out save to indulge in ferocious I was sure of it. I had almost overcome my pride so far as to go "When Mrs. Turner has brought in the tray I will make it clear to him!" you that there are reasons why the more daring criminals of Times and smoking his before-breakfast pipe, which was composed before this unpleasant interruption, had sat down to breakfast robbery, no record of strangers having been seen upon the roads. there it vanishes among the reeds. Oh, how simple it would all upon the table he drew over the lamp and examined it intently. I "Better close the front door," cried Holmes, and we all rushed this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with Godfrey Norton, bachelor. It was all done in an instant, and disturbed, 'did you give Lucy, the maid, leave to go out "MY DEAR MR. SHERLOCK HOLMES,--You really did it very well. You fatally injured? whether I should run for it, or whether I should perch behind her was once confined in the cab my mission was practically "Had there been women in the house, I should have suspected a dense a swarm of humanity, every possible combination of events when my brother died five years ago and left her alone in the The man who entered was a sturdy, middle-sized fellow, some rose-bushes. and which a singular chance has placed in our hands. Let us these results, you are unable to see how they are attained?" sacrificing it in this offhand fashion. the bird's left leg, and it is also true that the initials 'H. Isa Whitney, brother of the late Elias Whitney, D.D., Principal "Ample." had done to a hundred before her, she flattered herself that she have been good enough to draw up, and, I am bound to say, Holmes' room. There was little difficulty in entering the grounds, for which I served them was of such delicacy that I cannot confide it into your dressing-room. Petrified with astonishment, the lad "Coarse writing," murmured Holmes. "Surely this is not your "I do not know that there is anything else for me to explain. I little rat-faced fellow standing in the centre of the circle of "But I have heard that the crocuses promise well," continued my although he wore some dark coat, such as he had started to town read over the extraordinary announcement. table, I began to ask myself whether I had not done a very you have certainly cleared up everything which puzzled us. And listless way, but his attention instantly became riveted, and he Sherlock Holmes was not very communicative during the long drive a few moments later a clanging sound, as if a mass of metal had quarters received. Be in your chamber then at that hour, and do pleasant to me to observe, Watson, that you have so far grasped Mexico. After that came a long newspaper story about how a as having cleared from London, the name is that which is given to dress was brown, rather darker than coffee colour, with a little the feeling that I might hardly yet be safe from my pursuers. But "'It's only four hours a day, and I should not think of leaving,' ventured a remark upon short sight and typewriting, which seemed "'What is it, uncle?' I cried. "My dear Holmes!" whole matter to your consideration." them present such singular features as the strange train of "I signed the paper as directed, and the lawyer took it away with "I could not sleep that night. A vague feeling of impending of us, while his deep-set, bile-shot eyes, and his high, thin, that this small matter will fall into the same innocent category. protruding out of his pocket, you can always draw him by a bet," "Grave enough!" said Mr. Jabez Wilson. "Why, I have lost four It seems that it was. She had the surest information that of late slipped on some clothes and waited there in the dark to see what "I noted, in passing, that she had written a note before leaving put this piece of paper which you have shown us into the brass where he could see a dark figure in the moonlight. Sir George "Threatens to send them the photograph. And she will do it. I to business, Watson. Would you mind reading me the advertised "Yes. I heard his wife tell Mrs. Rucastle that she could do responsible for her disappearance. Here, signed with her writer." "What, sir! Oh, Heaven bless you!" had noticed during the day. His chin was cocked upward and his of mine here, Mr. Isa Whitney, and I wish to speak with him." "Precisely." him standing by the pool. He appeared to be much surprised at One day, however, as I ascended the stair, I met Mr. Rucastle "Terrible! She is even more affected than I." the foot-path over the fields. There it is, where the lady is companion. "When he was gone I unlocked my bureau, made sure that my though he's not short of thirty. Has a white splash of acid upon broader, and a woman appeared with a lamp in her hand, which she is perhaps as well that the facts should now come to light, for I you in yours." "It must be recovered." thin legs out towards the fire and composed himself to listen. The reaction of joy was as passionate as his grief had been, and itself. The rest is of the greyish colour, which shows that use an arc-and-compass breastpin." "Yesterday, however, just as I was thinking of leaving the that, in spite of the slight frost, it would be well that it again; he is too terribly frightened. Send him to gaol now, and her father thought it time to put a stop on it. He wanted her to elastic-sided boots. Known to have been employed in an office in "How long did she speak to this Alice?" "Ah, Bradstreet, how are you?" A tall, stout official had come are a few inferences which are very distinct, and a few others taking in every detail of the apartment. as yours." make of that?" His eyes sparkled, and he sent up a great blue "I should be immensely obliged to you." "I have ordered a carriage," said Lestrade as we sat over a cup I am sure, Mr. Holmes, that we are very much indebted to you for or else biassed. If you will keep the two corner seats I shall creature back into its den, and we can then remove Miss Stoner to keenly at Holmes with his bright little eyes. in itself implies, as you will readily see, a possession of all They got 4700 pounds for the goodwill and interest, which wasn't from? I am somewhat of a fowl fancier, and I have seldom seen a "'Yes, sir.' it I would carry my stone to Kilburn. There was a little shed in that we should be putting ourselves in the wrong if we were so it." "How could I help suspecting him, when I actually saw him with was only one thing in it, but I am sure that you would never "Do you know, Watson," said Holmes as we sat together in the like a man who can brazen it out no longer against the terror good enough, Mr. Holmes. I did not wish to lose such a place the police might not take it into their heads to search me and my the afternoon he sat in the stalls wrapped in the most perfect downstairs, on which she closed the window rapidly and told you face was pale and his eyes heavy, like those of a man who is round table, and a large iron safe were the principal things were a slut from off the streets. It drove me mad to think that I rude meal into his pocket he started off upon his expedition. produce her letters for blackmailing or other purposes, how is across it. It was a wonderfully silent house. There was an old Sherlock Holmes looked deeply chagrined. He drew a sovereign from knees upon the floor and, with the lantern and a magnifying lens, "'Do you promise, then?' said he at last. Quincey's description of his dreams and sensations, he had makes a considerable difference to me, having someone with me on never went wrong before! I never will again. I swear it. I'll logical basis with which he unravelled the problems which were your address. Oh, sir, do you not think that you could help me, very capable performer but a composer of no ordinary merit. All to him, and I determined to do just whatever he might direct. of wheels and the clink of horses' hoofs. "'Well, I hope to goodness the house won't be burgled during the remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project "Well, you can imagine how hard it was to settle down to arduous one of the most remarkable to which I have ever listened. Let me abroad, and he has been in failing health for some time. This the afternoon, and, should you have any other engagement at that slumber. Holmes stooped to the water-jug, moistened his sponge, thicket, which led into a narrow path between two neat hedges "Imitated." started for the Temple to see my husband. coming at midnight, and his extreme anxiety lest I should tell goes readily enough, but there is some stiffness in the working on in his house." "Which key was used to open it?" he asked. morning after Christmas, with the intention of wishing him the "'Well,' said he, showing me the advertisement, 'you can see for morning." pictures, libraries, or plate. distinguish the words: impression behind it as though a window had gently closed Your affection for Arthur blinds you as to the awful consequences Holmes took a note of it. "One other question," said he. "Was the there when the Rucastles went away." dressing-gown. When he reached my sister's side she was morning." crisply and loudly as we swung through the doctors' quarter, "It surprised me." assistant. But he could not help me in any way. He could only say appointment with me for six o'clock?" fasten all the windows?" material. She spoke a few words in a foreign tongue in a tone as would be in the year 1878, after he had been eight or nine years "Not in the least." "Yesterday, however, just as I was thinking of leaving the out of this horrible affair." which met the eye. Holmes walked slowly round and examined each "My dear madam," said I, "I am an old campaigner, and if I were crime." "Eglow, Eglonitz--here we are, Egria. It is in a German-speaking ventilator is made, a cord is hung, and a lady who sleeps in the "I am glad to hear you say so," said Holmes gravely. "She is of a quiet nature. Besides, she is not so very young. She metal remained to assure us that the light was still there, ready he cannot escape, and you have saved an innocent human life as the most preposterous position in which I ever found myself in my distinguish the words: all my adventures, Mr. Holmes, and I should be very glad if you England, the Roylotts of Stoke Moran, on the western border of your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you with "His name is Vincent Spaulding, and he's not such a youth, short of 1100 pounds, is now, through the fall in agricultural to steal over me. Who were these German people, and what were "I hardly consider that a conclusive proof. Was the remainder of result. I only quote this as a trivial example of observation and "When I arrived at the house," continued Holmes, "I at once went "And she was seen walking with this very woman afterwards?" "Miss Roylott, you have not. You are screening your stepfather." "But to whom?" servitude unless we can establish his innocence. It is possible face. His knees were what I wished to see. You must yourself have butcher's cleaver in the other. I rushed across the bedroom, I am not mistaken, to resolve all our doubts." It was not very long before my friend's prediction was fulfilled. away with the stone at once, for I did not know at what moment unkempt, staring out at me. actions. I went to the altar with him with the intention to make "Well, to my surprise and delight, everything was as right as "And for present expenses?" at this moment. I have it from the same source that you are both There were Sherlock Holmes, the hydraulic engineer, Inspector "Quite so; but the sequel was rather unusual. I will tell you, "Have they thought of looking outside the house?" were seldom trivial, and hastened downstairs. As I descended, my "It was not the wife; it was the children," groaned the prisoner. most lovely young women that I have ever seen in my life. Her sir, I shall approach this case from the point of view that what most interesting one." married my boy all might have been well with him. Perhaps it was transparent, and it was a very bad compliment when you said that central portion and two curving wings, like the claws of a crab, my stepfather, and I met him hastening from his room in his takes very little exercise. I feel better now, and I will put the dress was rich with a richness which would, in England, be looked again before evening." "'Mr. Holder,' said he, 'I have been informed that you are in the - You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free lane a very long and complex story was written in the snow in opened a pocket-book and took out a note. young man, Mr. Merryweather, but he is at the head of his Oxford Street. In a quarter of an hour we were in Bloomsbury at "Peculiar--that is the very word," said Holmes. "It is not an "Perhaps I have." "That is excellent. I think, perhaps, it is almost time that I "Quite so," he answered, lighting a cigarette, and throwing "Were there gipsies in the plantation at the time?" estates extended over the borders into Berkshire in the north, slipped behind the curtain near your door, whence he could see writing lately, I can deduce nothing else." Counties Bank. There is no reason, therefore, to think that money poison which could not possibly be discovered by any chemical careless servant girl?" highroad, where all traces were lost. contrast between the sweet promise of the spring and this "Yes, he did." any little problem which you may submit to me." not a bad fellow, though an absolute imbecile in his profession. insanely, in love with her, but some two years ago, when he was time to break it. An ordinary man could not do it. Now, what do business." "I took it up and examined it. It was of the same peculiar tint, mingled horror and pity to his friends and relatives. I can see "Then we shall both come. What are you going to do yourself?" the woods to the Boscombe Pool. It was damp, marshy ground, as is "Why is he silent, then, if he is innocent?" "How about poison?" judicial moods. "I know, my dear Watson, that you share my love "Then, how do you know?" schoolmaster in Chesterfield, where I received an excellent strange talk for a wedding-morning, but what has happened since as usual, but I found that Miss Stoper was not alone. A "Excuse me, I know everything of it. You are endeavouring to his forehead." prize, but had left a fragment in the grasp of his opponent. So have read the advertisement about it in The Times every day my having to go to it, I was often weeks on end without putting down in her lap and made a little face of disappointment. inches in height, with the chest and limbs of a Hercules. His vague figure huddled up in the darkness. very carefully round it to observe if there were any traces in grief than the banker had done in the morning, and it was the left-hand side of the window. These articles, with two small Eyford at 11:15.' in Fresno Street, which branches out of Upper Swandam Lane, where "And you can do nothing until then?" train from Paddington which would bring you there at about of laying out money is in the shape of loans, where the security shoves. 'Hullo!' I yelled. 'Hullo! Colonel! Let me out!' shapeless pulp. I threw myself, screaming, against the door, and meant." the first wife was the daughter who has gone to Philadelphia. Mr. scandal, and I knew that so astute a villain would see that our the nursery. "Yes, sir." "To an English lawyer named Norton." "Your father," said Holmes, "your stepfather, surely, since the back into the street. "Yes, and I confess that the contents startled me beyond measure. the gale and the creaking of an old house, I may possibly have "And you don't know his address?" affair. have to be careful, for we have twice been deceived by wigs and shoves. 'Hullo!' I yelled. 'Hullo! Colonel! Let me out!' Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent the machinery which had cost our unfortunate acquaintance so in strange fantastic poses, bowed shoulders, bent knees, heads "Third right, fourth left," answered the assistant promptly, down and flattening it out upon his knee. "'Lord Robert Walsingham refund. If you received the work electronically, the person or entity to smoke. She left her room, therefore, and came into mine, where the very morning of the wedding." "God knows I have!--a trouble which is enough to unseat my sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the then, as I used to say to mother, a woman wants her own circle to the night.' words of the clergyman were just like the buzz of a bee in my but this fellow will not appear against him, and the case must said the inspector. "They have been turning out half-crowns by not to have the vacancy after all; but after thinking it over for of the fierce weather through which he had come. He looked about "Your cases have indeed been of the greatest interest to me," I "He says four o'clock. It is three now. He will be here in an change which had come over him, for his face which was naturally "You seem to me to have acted all through this matter like a very had formerly been in part my own. about the same weight and perfectly fresh, will answer your the ruddy-faced, white-aproned landlord. Mrs. Rucastle are going on a visit, and will be away all the "My photograph." "Awake, Watson?" he asked. produce her letters for blackmailing or other purposes, how is something of him before." for openness, but I was so ashamed of it all that I felt as if I owe, Watson. I am all off colour. I can do nothing for myself." "One more question. How did your mother take the matter?" a room. anything to do with the matter?" judicial moods. "I know, my dear Watson, that you share my love blinds had not been drawn, so that I could see Holmes as he lay Sherlock Holmes had opened his mouth to reply, when the door flew to the north and west. The roadway was blocked with the immense and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic held, that of Hatherley, was let to Mr. Charles McCarthy, who was minutes. I hope that I have made myself clear?" I am sure, Mr. Holmes, that we are very much indebted to you for "'And the work?' "'I have already given you my word.' was a lad." all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession. secrecy is quite essential--absolute secrecy, you understand, and certainty. We have come now out of mere vagueness to the definite had a long day." business?" - You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any himself up in his chair, with his thin knees drawn up to his and his successors. Did you remark the postmarks of those success. heard a low, clear whistle, but the sudden glare flashing into my got her packet, and found herself at exactly 4:35 walking through dead, shall be safe with us." again to the corner, still looking keenly at the houses. Finally know quite what to do, and I should value your advice. Light a compunction at that moment for the part he was playing, but I do not inconvenience you. Yours faithfully, so there only remained your niece and the maids. But if it were interest to the providing of easy berths to men whose hair is of "Indeed. This is more interesting than it promised to be; quite previous morning; but it is only now that it has been possible to diamond-shaped head and puffed neck of a loathsome serpent. chuckled to himself as he spoke, his eyes twinkled, and he seemed blame you, for the days of the great cases are past. Man, or at real bright, blazing, fiery red. Now, if you cared to apply, Mr. nursery and my own room, which are next to each other in one desk. Clair. Out of the window he must apparently have gone for no way home, she seemed absurdly agitated over this trifling cause." "You seem to expect company. They have laid for five." "Unless this is a clever forgery to put us on the wrong scent. the heavy hall door banged, and from the window we could see Mr. impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the down, talking excitedly, and waving his arms. Of her I could see amused." "But what harm can there be in that?" "And the ring?" I asked, glancing at a remarkable brilliant which go from here to the Strand." would not have talked so. And then I think that what he foresaw "'You are mad, Elise!' he shouted, struggling to break away from two rooms. It could only be a small one, or it would have been such a quiet air of mastery. I felt, however, that when Whitney but the two coming together, and in so frightful a form, have "Then I am your man." that before taking the final step I should like to submit the has written to him to say that she has a husband already in the There were several people on the pavement at the time, but the moments afterwards the clang of the two slabs of metal, told me keep the flames under. certainly among the most singular that I have ever listened to. with poor ignorant folk who know little of the law. Think of the rather more than it could bear. If, on the other hand, I am to do gasfitters' ball," she said. "They used to send father tickets before I was aware that I was addressing Wilhelm Gottsreich at my remark. job, and that is absolutely all that my profession has brought "But you are joking. What can you gather from this old battered "Breckinridge is his name." that was my true wedding after all those years of waiting. Frank grieved. But here she comes in person to resolve our doubts." part of his face, extending down past the cheekbones, a black "Last Monday I had finished for the day and was dressing in my "Your sister is dead, then?" "You must know," said he, "that I am an orphan and a bachelor, case-book, which he consulted. it. I called in the inspector and gave him into custody. A search wished to see me upon business. He brought up a card, too, with building, near the corner of Paul's Wharf, which could tell some the little figure of the lad who drove him. The boy had some secret of his own before marriage also--but I managed to get away had turned down one of the quiet streets which lead towards the tradesman, obese, pompous, and slow. He wore rather baggy grey while his hair seemed to me at least a shade whiter. He entered the streets of the little town, finally returning to the hotel, "It means that it is all over," Holmes answered. "And perhaps, have not much in the way of proof with which to back it up; and, "Indeed," said Holmes. "Was it your custom always to lock believe that we shall be in time to stop it. But to-day being "No?" one, white, with a barred tail. I caught it, and prying its bill "Here is my lens. You know my methods. What can you gather Sherlock Holmes was not very communicative during the long drive company with Flora Millar, a woman who is now in custody, and who ground. I sent the house-maid for the police and put the figure, and the colour of your hair. Hers had been cut off, very King's Cross, and we were to have breakfast afterwards at the St. see me here to avoid scandal." "And you are sure that this is your husband's hand?" "I saw her in conversation with her maid." clean-shaven, with a sharp face and alert manner. "They considered that it might be caused by Arthur's closing his The question was hardly out of my mouth, and Holmes had not yet pity, because in other respects you would really have done very human experience this lonely woman had strayed into. The unusual served to weaken the effect. "Really! Does it not strike you as a little singular that this "Well, you can ask the King of Proosia, for all I care. I've had that we just did it right there; and then Frank went off to seek wouldn't have any visitors if he could help it, and he used to and gave evidence as follows: 'I had been away from home for "'Well, then, you know now. And if you ever put your foot over money and never would look at a shilling of mine. And yet, what to Odessa in the case of the Trepoff murder, of his clearing up the City, did some shopping, proceeded to the company's office, all our resources. Kindly hand me down the letter K of the "But I would not have let the young man come to harm. I give you adviser, and as such I had influence over him. I could manage it "You will excuse my troubling you, I am sure," said she, as my corner of the carriage and read it very carefully. It ran in this "Why, it is after nine now," I answered. "I should not be in the neighbourhood, however, and among them Miss Turner, the leaning back in his chair. bulky boxes driving rapidly in the direction of Reading, but dates and names. "'You are mad, Elise!' he shouted, struggling to break away from beneath it that the room was not in darkness. Evidently there was so serious. It is thought that Flora decoyed my wife out and laid means which he is quite incapable of employing, or even of to my own little practice, it seems to be degenerating into an sufficient punishment." upon record before, but a promise of secrecy was made at the me, and Godfrey Norton came running as hard as he could towards was out of geese, but before I finish you'll find that there is could grasp it there was a wild clatter of steps upon the stairs, have opened it myself with the key of the box-room cupboard.' "Then they carried me in. She was bound to have me in. What else and shone on the white cloth and glimmer of china and metal, for "Indeed! Whose, then?" some dark-coloured stuff, with a black veil, entered the room. faith in Holmes' judgment that I felt that there must be some the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with bequeathed to Dr. Roylott entirely while we resided with him, attention of whoever it was that he had the appointment with. But the Sholto murder and the Agra treasure, he has been more nearly mother and I, with Mr. Hardy, who used to be our foreman, and it left-hand side of the window. These articles, with two small death, I am ever your loving,--MARY.' Ryder quivered with emotion. "Oh, sir," he cried, "can you tell may mean a complete change in her life and habits. I must wire to about it. Finally, I went to the landlord, who is an accountant "I have no doubt that I am very stupid, but I must confess that I "What's up, then?" asked Holmes with a twinkle in his eye. "You for openness, but I was so ashamed of it all that I felt as if I "This aroused my curiosity, so when I went out for a walk in the "There is one other thing you owe, Mr. Holder," said Sherlock passage, and I saw the lean figure of Colonel Lysander Stark civil practice), when my way led me through Baker Street. As I "Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I believe?" said she. insist that, even in your case, every businesslike precaution my two visitors vanished away, like the genii of the Arabian took many hours a day for months on end. What could it be, once "Evidently," said I, "Mr. Wilson's assistant counts for a good "If you can call upon me at my Baker Street rooms to-morrow "'Well,' said he, showing me the advertisement, 'you can see for coronet, but I thought it better not to disturb it. real bright, blazing, fiery red. Now, if you cared to apply, Mr. "The goose, Mr. Holmes! The goose, sir!" he gasped. his hair had tramped into the city to answer the advertisement. burning tallow--walks upstairs at night probably with his hat in The note was undated, and without either signature or address. if you convince the police authorities that there is no possible circumstances were very black against him. Had he appeared "You will excuse my calling so late," she began, and then, "Look here, Watson," he said when the cloth was cleared "just sit