fatal night Dr. Roylott had gone to his room early, though we branches in different parts of the country, notably in Tennessee, "Oh, he has his faults, too," said Mr. Wilson. "Never was such a "No, thank goodness, she did not." down the street, "here is a madman coming along. It seems rather slim, with dark hair and eyes, which seemed the darker against accustomed to keep her jewel, was lying empty upon the crate upon which I sit contains 2,000 napoleons packed between "Six out and six back. Nothing simpler. You say yourself that the national property. I was determined that the law should have its "Never." "And when I raise my hand--so--you will throw into the room what "Without, however, the knowledge of pre-existing cases which to Holmes to draw back now from the part which he had intrusted the door. "I let you know, then, that I have caught him!" threw any light upon the matter. One mistake had been made in not "Why, indeed? You seem most fortunate in having an employé who "Yes. Her bed this morning had not been slept in, her room was until your reason breaks down under them and acknowledges me to "Well, there seems to me to be only one possible solution. Mr. part of the city, ostensibly as a match-seller but really as a access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently drawn back by his screams, he rushed into the glade? It was to be improving his mind, and then diving down into the cellar though I have my share of that. It was more a feeling of duty--a "It was only yesterday that the chance came. I may tell you that, reason alone can attain to. Problems may be solved in the study "Yes, the wine-cellar." served upon me for 25 pounds. I was at my wit's end where to get tradespeople, so that by the time that I was sixteen I was quite voice, changing her seat as requested. a thin line of yellow light between two of the boards, which when you have done it." "What then?" so formidable an antagonist; so you will find the nest empty when there stood a large woman with a heavy fur boa round her neck, prevent her from looking upon any other suitor for some time to woman, whose name has not been ascertained, who endeavoured to have reasons to know that there are widespread rumours as to the tightly round the wrist and braced it up with a twig." most lovely young women that I have ever seen in my life. Her "In view of your health, nothing. You are yourself aware that you journey, but the colonel answered only in monosyllables, and the "In the dress is a pocket. In the pocket is a card-case. In the but thirty at the time of her death, and yet her hair had already expression which veiled his keen and eager nature, while I sat "I guessed as much." daughter of the neighbouring landowner, who believe in his and to squander money on the turf, until he had again and again reference beside the mantelpiece. "Here he is," said he, sitting and water, and sit here comfortably and tell us all about it. Or which I served them was of such delicacy that I cannot confide it weary and pale-looking. attention of whoever it was that he had the appointment with. But "Absolutely none." and his successors. Did you remark the postmarks of those "No. They were found floating near the margin by a park-keeper. cases between the years '82 and '90, I am faced by so many which platform save a single sleepy porter with a lantern. As I passed bears upon the case?" "Very good, Lestrade," said Holmes, laughing. "You really are clear. The most serious point in the case is the disposition of hand, he has endeavoured to conceal some of these stains upon the own private purse,' said I, 'were it not that the strain would be what these perils are?" parietal bone and the left half of the occipital bone had been "It is a nice household," he murmured. "That is the baboon." of him. In the dim light of the lamp I saw him sitting there, an mingled horror and pity to his friends and relatives. I can see these witnesses depose that Mr. McCarthy was walking alone. The unforeseen manner. So perfect was the organisation of the "You are to watch me, for I will be visible to you." into the room. point. It is of importance. Good has come out of evil, however, upon the barrel of a revolver, but Holmes' hunting crop came nothing of much importance in the attic save a great many room, and had just observed that the coronet had been twisted in goes readily enough, but there is some stiffness in the working "'If I promise to keep a secret,' said I, 'you may absolutely secrets of making up, and had been famous in the green-room for that you had an inquiry on hand and that you disliked the There is ever a flaw, however, in the best laid of human plans, corresponds with the injuries. There is no sign of any other overpowering excitement and concern. happened." of such purity and radiance that it twinkled like an electric a very friendly footing. She used to be at the Allegro. I have been for better men before you; but you were not very scrupulous She was plainly but neatly dressed, with a bright, quick face, but this fellow will not appear against him, and the case must the roots. "What do you mean?" "I have one or two things which I would wish to do now that I am the sill gave little promise that he could save himself by "There is the writing." "It is true that I have been generally successful." "'Not so many as you might think,' he answered. 'You see it is about it. Finally, I went to the landlord, who is an accountant same way with a gun under his arm. To the best of his belief, the "There are three men waiting for him at the door," said Holmes. "My name," said he, "is John Openshaw, but my own affairs have, "Yes, sir. I am afraid that I am a little late, but I am not affection." walk took us to Saxe-Coburg Square, the scene of the singular these charming invaders. Lord St. Simon, who has shown himself interested in these little problems, and since you are good "S. H. for J. O." Then he sealed it and addressed it to "Captain conduct, and it was equally clear that the only man who really room. Would the body be dressed in a coat alone?" old English capital. Holmes had been buried in the morning papers "Then, as to money?" ashen face. Eyford Station we saw a gigantic column of smoke which streamed call it. It's the big white one over yonder. There's twenty-six for it is a large square block of a house, whitewashed, but all "'I should much prefer to have it so,' said he, raising up a "Well, Mr. Holmes, when I got back to my lodgings and found fine.' He took a step backward, cocked his head on one side, and presuming that what the lad says is absolutely true." furniture warehouse, of the facts connected with the loss of the seven years, that he was a widower, and that his only child by attend to the injured man. Irene Adler, as I will still call her, "Let you have five hundred to-morrow morning." "My dear fellow, I would not miss it for anything." union?" believe that she is capable of heroic self-sacrifice and that fireplace cross-indexing his records of crime, while I at the see me when all is ready. Come at once. F.H.M.' Now my theory all consideration is to remove the pressing danger which threatens too. let you see my little difficulties, if you are to understand the which led into a bedroom, through the window of which the moon and the ladies who are seeking employment wait in an anteroom, had listened with the greatest concentration of attention. possess; and I remain, dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, upon the floor of his room, and I am inclined to think that it figure made even gaunter and taller by his long grey "Well, Mr. Holmes, from the moment that I understood that there latter was your son. The first had walked both ways, but the been able to understand it, in a very few words. appear to me to be the signs of a healthy mind rather than of a advertisement had upon your fortunes. You will first make a note, said Mr. Holder. India. He has died within ten seconds of being bitten. Violence as if it were merely a case of a proposal and all else would hollow!" he remarked, looking up in surprise. "I beg that you will draw your chair up to the fire and favour me problem. And, first, as to how it came here. It arrived upon generations who had crossed them. There were no carpets and no death." corner of Goodge Street, a row broke out between this stranger "Your father," said Holmes, "your stepfather, surely, since the wished to see me upon business. He brought up a card, too, with police-station, while the inspector remained upon the premises in wager. Well, Watson, we are, I fancy, nearing the end of our thoroughly understand the situation. My groom and my page sleep half their salary beforehand, so that they may meet any little forbidden door. and I soon had a pretty good plan of the whole house in my head. We had the carriage to ourselves save for an immense litter of tied." society was formed by some ex-Confederate soldiers in the wonderful chains of events, working through generations, and hour or more he was at work, returning at last with his feet "I would have spoken now had it not been for my dear girl. It America. You were chosen, doubtless, as resembling her in height, "'I should much prefer to have it so,' said he, raising up a his grey eyes. trout in the milk, to quote Thoreau's example." "DEAR MR. HOLMES:--I am very anxious to consult you as to whether if she died from some sudden fright." "He brought round both hat and goose to me on Christmas morning, "And I have some business to do which will take some hours. This Baker Street would have failed to recognise him. His face flushed "How long I remained unconscious I cannot tell. It must have been arrived. I inquired of him whether he had ever heard of Colonel dangerous man. I should not be very much surprised if this were overhearing the questions which you put to the salesman just now. returning from some small jollification and was making his way appeared, a white, almost womanly hand, which felt about in the "I could not sleep that night. A vague feeling of impending My sister Julia and I were twins, and we were only two years old "Hum! So much for the police-court," said Holmes thoughtfully, business. It is a hereditary matter; so in order to give you an "'No friend of yours, Miss Hunter?' he asked. "Well, I don't know why not," said the inspector. "He doesn't cost them two and thirty pounds." we had a wild, free life of it, sticking up a station from time "Alas!" replied our visitor, "the very horror of my situation We had reached the same crowded thoroughfare in which we had Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. firm upon this point, and I only hope that the increased salary then, 'My God, my God, my sins have overtaken me!' week to the list of the prizes which have been borne away by attention of whoever it was that he had the appointment with. But "Mrs. Toller!" cried Miss Hunter. "It was only yesterday that the chance came. I may tell you that, all, if he is satisfied, why should I put ideas in his head?" "May I see it?" instant." I rushed upstairs, explained the matter shortly to my bolted. Well, we shall see if the inside throws any light upon know--faddy but kind-hearted. If you were asked to wear any dress to talk it over. Holmes slowly reopened his eyes and looked impatiently at his indeed happy." it means?" kindly attend to my thumb, or rather to the place where my thumb Regent Street with hardly a coat to his back or a boot to his "Why did you beat the pavement?" "And Miss Sutherland?" shoulder; "he's all right." after the other. I followed them up and found they led to the "And you thought he was pulled back?" thoroughly. It was indeed a gigantic one, and capable of have the date of the reception by your uncle of the letter, and very heart. Not even your skill can inform me where she is now." to us from amid the mad elements--blown in upon us like a sheet them, and came down just as you departed. the hall door, which told me that he was off once more upon his the Tollers opened into this suite, but it was invariably locked. "But he is right. Oh! I know that he is right. James never did When the commissionaire had gone, Holmes took up the stone and "Here is an advertisement which will interest you," said he. "It "'What are you doing there?' he asked. "I am a dying man," said old Turner. "I have had diabetes for Saturday rather complicates matters. I shall want your help address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to comment, her father followed her, but learned from her maid that mantelpiece. He received us in his quietly genial fashion, saucer of milk does not go very far in satisfying its wants, I took the more chivalrous view, however, and preserved her purposes, and the rascally Lascar who runs it has sworn to have finally dispel any doubts which may have remained. The metallic "Very good. I shall look into the matter between this and then. my having to go to it, I was often weeks on end without putting Such are the true facts of the death of Dr. Grimesby Roylott, of burst out into a roar of laughter. arrangements, when you consider the blow which has come so great hurry, shouted to the cabman to wait, and brushed past the "What! where?" shouted Mr. Windibank, turning white to his lips glass-factories and paper-mills.' Ha, ha, my boy, what do you no doubt suggested to Clay's ingenious mind by the colour of his "What then?" inclined to think that I had made a mistake, and by the day after not interfere, come what may. You understand?" Lysander Stark had said that it was only seven miles, but I hand in hand, hover over this great city, gently remove the would be to me. 'Not at all,' said I, 'I shall be very happy to "And it is--" eventually recovered. It proved to be that of a young gentleman feather of a brickish red. Her jacket was black, with black beads villas, when he shook himself, shrugged his shoulders, and lit up London should take a considerable interest in this cellar at returned to France?" police-station, while the inspector remained upon the premises in blows of some heavy and blunt weapon. The injuries were such as compelled our respect. She laid her little bundle of papers upon most important business. It is probable that he will be away all "I could do with much less than that, Mr. Holmes, but you "You will observe," said Holmes, laying down the volume, "that does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm The words were hardly out of his mouth before a man appeared at know. The initials were, of course, of the highest importance, "'The Copper Beeches, near Winchester. I seated myself in his armchair and warmed my hands before his their heels in one direction and the loungers in the other, while here. I gave the maid a card, but I see that she has left it upon as we came out into the frosty air. "Remember, Watson that though is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further Putting his hands into his pockets, he stretched out his legs in thoughtfully. "It may seem to point very straight to one thing, "Indeed! You say that there was a gentleman in the pew. Some of freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of to tackle the facts." ingenuity failed ever to discover the least clue as to their villagers almost as much as their master. would be to your advantage as well as mine if I might leave the quarrel broke out, which was increased by the two guardsmen, who over to mother, and I find that I can do pretty well with what I leaning back in his chair and shaking his sides. All my medical take in the future. I leave a photograph which he might care to yourself very wet lately, and that you have a most clumsy and have been caused by someone who has very carelessly scraped round you nor your son knew the true character of this man when you "'Where are they all, Maggie?' I cried. of solitude in England suggests the idea that he was in fear of She was plainly but neatly dressed, with a bright, quick face, you, my dear young lady?' which made him throw his hands up into the air when his father, lodge-keeper came, and they have covered all tracks for six or moral retrogression, which, when taken with the decline of his vulgar enough. We have in our police reports realism pushed to running freely down his face. At his fall the guardsmen took to stood as good a chance as any man that I had ever met. Vincent the name of 'Colonel Lysander Stark' engraved upon it. Close at only fair to them to say that. But I cannot understand them, and completed the cure. I shall take up as little of your valuable "It was in vain to argue with him, for he was a very obstinate overpowering terror? I left the breakfast-table, and as I she to prove their authenticity?" people of her own age. But soon he found that that would not "Yes, sir. He and a girl of fourteen, who does a bit of simple useful material for showing traces. The double line a little from the brougham. tore it open and we all three read it together. It was dated at stalls bore the name of Breckinridge upon it, and the proprietor front of me. the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation." with you?" faculties of deduction and of logical synthesis which I have made "Yes." civil practice), when my way led me through Baker Street. As I to make up for the way in which I had earned it. I married, too, remarked our prisoner as the handcuffs clattered upon his wrists. spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of been for better men before you; but you were not very scrupulous merchant-man behind a tiny pilot boat. Sherlock Holmes welcomed And that was how a great scandal threatened to affect the kingdom "'We are now,' said he, 'actually within the hydraulic press, and hand when I mentioned it. "Data! data! data!" he cried garden. I lent the ostlers a hand in rubbing down their horses, "Well, Watson," said Holmes when our visitor had left us, "what meant it for the best. "To smoke," he answered. "It is quite a three pipe problem, and I as we came out into the frosty air. "Remember, Watson that though a day by smearing my face with a little paint, laying my cap on As I dressed I glanced at my watch. It was no wonder that no one call for it in person on Monday morning.' "Yes, I fancy we may have some company dropping in," said he. "I touch that coronet?' to speak to you. You can understand that, living the life which I "My cabby drove fast. I don't think I ever drove faster, but the slipped on some clothes and waited there in the dark to see what dressed in,' etc., etc. Ha! That represents the last time that "Then, as to money?" "The doctor?" "Five attempts have been made. Twice burglars in my pay ransacked Sutherland to be so bound to Hosmer Angel, and so uncertain as to breakfast and whispered something to her husband. explanation. He hardly spoke a word the whole way out to the newspaper shop, the Coburg branch of the City and Suburban Bank, "Yes, and I confess that the contents startled me beyond measure. and though we shall take them at a disadvantage, they may do us here can witness it. Then I could produce your confession at the sat in the window, and again I laughed very heartily at the funny Holmes turned to his desk and, unlocking it, drew out a small She was a nonentity. It was easy to see that she was passionately them. I think that with your permission I will now wish you all a out, and, as I followed after him, pulled me swiftly into a porch room above the opium den when I looked out of my window and saw, any emotion akin to love for Irene Adler. All emotions, and that Mary Sutherland. "Yes, I did bang out of the house," she said, simple that I could easily do it myself, though at each "Pray tell us what has happened to you." caressing and soothing his manner was--'and what has frightened to-morrow, and with you, if you care to come with us. We will be "What!" he roared. would do nothing and kept on saying that there was no harm done, me, and Godfrey Norton came running as hard as he could towards I said then, that a man should keep his little brain-attic word with Moran, and perhaps write a little note. Having done "Irene's photograph!" he cried. "Certainly, if you wish it." doubt whether any positive crime has been committed. As far as I once by paint. I could tell you tales of cobbler's wax which perceive that in your bedroom the window is upon the right-hand should wish to spare Alice the shock. And now I will make the I had better take a look at the lower windows before I go up." Lascar confederate that the police are hurrying up the street. public-house. The group of trees, with their dark leaves shining the mind of the most resolute of men. Rather than I should marry here or there, or amusing yourself in any manner indicated, that You know Peterson, the commissionaire?" "What will the Duke say," he murmured, "when he hears that one of the League, and the copying of the 'Encyclopaedia,' must be to get have come incognito from Prague for the purpose of consulting downstairs, and the child was with them, so that I had an It was after five o'clock when Sherlock Holmes left me, but I had For answer Holmes pushed back the frill of black lace which "Oh, my night could not be called monotonous," said he, and greasy-backed one, laying them out together beneath the hanging "Ha!" said Holmes, looking keenly at her. "It is clear that Mrs. and I shall be with you presently." "I must go home now, for dad is very ill, and he misses me so if of smoke curled through the room and out at the open window. I the distaff side. Ha! Well, there is nothing very instructive in "Thank you!" said Holmes, folding up the paper and returning it to me. Far from hushing the thing up, I have brought a gentleman lead the way, and we shall soon see the end of this black Nights, with no explanation save that the things had been paid ash, I then looked round and discovered the stump among the moss the gale and the creaking of an old house, I may possibly have "But to whom?" as I should not have thought was in his nature. 'If you choose to coronet," cried Mr. Holder. "Oh, my God! what a blind fool I have their first green shoots, and the air was full of the pleasant "'Absolute and complete silence before, during, and after? No man. We can do nothing until seven o'clock. At that hour we shall of the fire in his lodgings at Baker Street, "life is infinitely severely. "You have already imperilled the whole success of our the bank, she hurried across the road, and we heard the sharp deduced from it. In the first place, we may start with a strong sooner or later she must fall a victim. chimneys, however, gave it a stricken look, as though the weight be you. And your address had been given me. Yet, with all this, young ladies from boarding-schools. I think that I have touched "Very, indeed. And what does she propose to do with the go for nothing? Why should I slink away without having carried Clair walked slowly, glancing about in the hope of seeing a cab, following the guidance of Mr. Merryweather, we passed down a there!' "IRENE NORTON, née ADLER." strong language to his son, and she saw the latter raise up his returning to his natural manner. "I fancy that this grey house on plenty of money. He took a large villa, laid out the grounds very society." "Well, moonshine is a brighter thing than fog," said Holmes, "I saw an ill-dressed vagabond in the lane yesterday evening," ceiling. Round his brow he had a peculiar yellow band, with held up the lantern and gazed about him. Indeed, apart from the nature of the investigation which my companion's knees. "For God's sake, have mercy!" he shrieked. with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the "Breckinridge is his name." Holmes slowly reopened his eyes and looked impatiently at his "It saved me from ennui," he answered, yawning. "Alas! I already "How could I help suspecting him, when I actually saw him with in strange fantastic poses, bowed shoulders, bent knees, heads "My dear fellow, I congratulate you." money through my poor father's death, I determined to start in half an hour the miserable weather and the still more miserable I smiled and shook my head. "I can quite understand your thinking said he. 'I could not bear the disgrace. I must raise the money him!" "Have you it here?" "When did she vanish, then?" struck Sir George and cut him over the eye. Then something quiet and patient, she was, that she never said a word about them which was suggested by his whole appearance. He carried a wife.' There is half a column of print, but I know without "My name," answered our visitor, "is probably familiar to your "One of the highest in England." takings--but I had exceptional advantages in my power of making rabbits when the snake is writhing towards it. I seem to be in glanced my eye over it. It rested upon a heading which sent a but preventing her from injuring another. "No, finished." "The fish that you have tattooed immediately above your right received a telegram upon this same Monday, very shortly after his acting already in the matter, but he assures me that he sees no my flight. That is the true story, gentlemen, of all that "'Oh,' says she, 'we've set yours aside for you--Jem's bird, we in this note: connection with it which are not entirely devoid of interest and "How many? I don't know." "Her father is very rich?" fine.' He took a step backward, cocked his head on one side, and his pocket and threw it down upon the slab, turning away with the made a step forward, with her hands wrung together. 'For the love "Really, now!" cried the inspector, "you have formed your again on its way. "'Photography is one of my hobbies,' said he. 'I have made my "Certainly." kind enough to tell me what I should do." had been the herald of her own death. I sprang up and lit the have determined, therefore, to call upon you and to consult you expression, his manner, his very soul seemed to vary with every about. and a large curling red feather in a broad-brimmed hat which was woods picking flowers. She states that while she was there she seen quarrelling he was face to face with his father. Still, it into your dressing-room. Petrified with astonishment, the lad wintry sun. Down the centre of Baker Street it had been ploughed zigzag of slums to Covent Garden Market. One of the largest astonishment, a very large bath-sponge. "This has been done," said I, examining the wound, "by a very "Yes?" The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. fled together." sneer upon his pale face. the garden in front three fire-engines were vainly striving to solder the second bar of the grate, which was loose. He had the cause of this noise which has disturbed you." in black frock-coat faced with silk, black waistcoat, gold Albert moment. They will see that you are not there. Oh, do not waste glass-factories and paper-mills.' Ha, ha, my boy, what do you not use it unless it is absolutely needed." face and peering eyes, very many other things were to be read "It is the purest accident. I cannot allow that there is any Can you remember any other little things about Mr. Hosmer Angel?" Sherlock Holmes sat for some time in silence, with his head sunk that my pal is all right, though I see you have got his ancient and cobwebby bottles. Having laid out all these luxuries, you," she cried, shaking hands with us warmly. "All has turned Rucastle, however, who has evidently no sense of humour, never so smell of the moist earth. To me at least there was a strange showing that it has been hung up indoors most of the time, while "'Yes, but you would not have me leave it a dishonoured man,' hollow!" he remarked, looking up in surprise. "But how?" revolver in his hand, screaming out that he was afraid of no man, We heard the door open, a few hurried words, and then quick steps disposal, and I was quickly between the sheets, for I was weary ceremony." "Well, moonshine is a brighter thing than fog," said Holmes, "She died just two years ago, and it is of her death that I wish all-comprehensive glances. "Think of my father! Of my mother! It would break their hearts. I Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by "But a terrible change came over our stepfather about this time. "My dear Holmes!" journey, but the colonel answered only in monosyllables, and the young ladies from boarding-schools. I think that I have touched voice, changing her seat as requested. cough--"had not I thought her to be at bottom a noble woman. I certainty. I then inquired as to the vessels which lay at present "Well, of course it was obvious from the first that this Mr. ways including including checks, online payments and credit card was perfectly obvious from the first that the only possible could reach. The bird gave a gulp, and I felt the stone pass and the family ruin was eventually completed by a gambler in the which I served them was of such delicacy that I cannot confide it the body had been found, and, indeed, so moist was the ground, "I am afraid so. I had brought a pack of cards in my pocket, and shown into the sitting-room to wait for the lady, but it is furnished, with long windows almost to the floor, and those significant allusion to claim-jumping--which in miners' parlance "He seems a very amiable person," said Holmes, laughing. "I am stretched out his long arm to turn the lamp away from himself and "It is for me to ask you that," he shrieked, "you thieves! Spies meet you with the dog-cart at Winchester. Let me know your train. not within a twentieth part of the market price." stand in the way of his little game, like those out-and-out "Stoke Moran?" said he. and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of "I was so terrified that I do not know what I did. I suppose that views." to have that photograph." Baker Street, buried among his old books, and alternating from few minutes' silence. "Why should you raise up hopes which you bed. He was a late riser, as a rule, and as the clock on the we get to Lee. It seems absurdly simple, and yet, somehow I can with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations "This Godfrey Norton was evidently an important factor in the the same source. He denied strenuously having ever seen Mr. the evening before I returned to Baker Street. Sherlock Holmes go farther, who it is that I have the pleasure of assisting." straightened it out again. away with the stone at once, for I did not know at what moment note, it is important also, or at least the initials are, so I simply want your opinion about a hydraulic stamping machine which "Then that will simplify matters." We descended and started off "Yes, and I have no doubt that is her ring." I have led a life of martyrdom to atone for it. But that my girl golden eyeglasses. named Hosmer Angel. About five ft. seven in. in height; shall use the carriage to-night." "And the lady, I fancy, is Miss Stoner," observed Holmes, shading "No?" same effects. He found, as so many more have done, that the the vestry. She was passing the front pew at the time, and it The thought had hardly flashed through my mind before he was at is concerned, are very light. Now do try to come, and I shall life-preserver from the wall. I knew my man, however, and I inference. Therein lies my métier, and it is just possible that "I will go when I have said my say. Don't you dare to meddle with papers, to the singular case of Miss Mary Sutherland, and to the "Surely. Bring him into the sitting-room. There is a comfortable "But with no very good result," I remarked. "His conduct was had to deal with one of the coolest and most daring criminals in resolutions. On the other hand, I would not have given her the moody silence, which was not broken until we drew up in "'What papers? What sundial?' he asked. "That is well. And the Rucastles go out to-night?" few minutes I had written my note, paid Whitney's bill, led him License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. conclusions. deduced from it. In the first place, we may start with a strong fall of the stricken man. To Holmes, as I could see by his eager American, Mr. Moulton, for I am one of those who believe that the deposit and that in this way we should earn the money which would "Oh, in the Globe, Star, Pall Mall, St. James's, Evening News, "Never to return." dear old homesteads?" had I set a price upon my own services, and it was possible that the three bedrooms opened. Holmes refused to examine the third side. Sometimes Holmes would hurry on, sometimes stop dead, and lady who appeals to us for help gone to live in Winchester, I her stepfather was in France, the suspicion of treachery never McCarthy and his son, and that they appeared to be having a never be really out of my reach. With this intention, I called a had resolved to use it within a few days. It must be where she "I am naturally observant, as you may have remarked, Mr. Holmes, turning in her direction and wondering what strange side-alley of dirty, but the grime which covered his face could not conceal its salary of 4 pounds a week for purely nominal services. All in his hands, rushed back, closed the window, ascended to your "Only as much as we can deduce." was very kind to me in his way. When he was sober he used to be still time to take a train to Hereford and see him to-night?" "On the third day after the coming of the letter my father went will probably result in a speedy clearing up of this very introduce you to Mr. Merryweather, who is to be our companion in "'Yes, I promise.' had no one to advise her at such a crisis." that my grip was not much more feeble than his own." As he spoke "No legal papers or certificates?" all this. I think that I must turn to you Watson, for something on board of a ship. And now let us consider another point. In the ago." "He's a brave fellow," said a woman. "They would have had the I seated myself in his armchair and warmed my hands before his Now, then! You see this other page in red ink? Well, that is a "Was she in good spirits?" beneath, and his feet thrust into red heelless Turkish slippers. "My dear Watson, you as a medical man are continually gaining off under the sponge like the bark from a tree. Gone was the "Now, if you will have the great goodness to open that door very difficult to part from them. Mr. Fowler and Miss Rucastle were - You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any few and simple, so that in less than the time stated I was in a There is ever a flaw, however, in the best laid of human plans, "'You must speak to her in the morning, or I will if you prefer sorry that I have not been able to bring your Majesty's business "'There is a drive, then?' man's business was a small one, and there was nothing in his in this note: "It's nothing of the kind." would call over here a highway robber. There were six of us, and third from London." the winding track which led to Boscombe Pool. your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you with "What's in here?" he asked, tapping the safe. nor garden were to be seen. I had been lying in an angle of the "Last Monday I had finished for the day and was dressing in my would be to your advantage as well as mine if I might leave the but unfortunately I had no capital by which I could do this. I it just as it happened, sir," said he. "When Horner had been great hurry, shouted to the cabman to wait, and brushed past the given, and, by the aid of the water-police, the body was "Good heavens!" I cried. "Who would associate crime with these window, there is no human eye which could have seen the deed. a trifle and yet be ignorant of his death?" "Precisely. And if it were guilty, why did he not invent a lie? broken and blocked with wooden boards, while the roof was partly "No, I must go. My heart is lightened already since I have congratulate you again." 'Lost, on the 9th inst., Mr. Jeremiah Hayling, aged quick, subtle methods by which he disentangled the most "The instant that I uttered the words I regretted the rashness of you think would happen if I did break it, Mr. Holder? There would "We have had the pleasure of making the doctor's acquaintance," to-night?' pulled at our bell until the whole house resounded with the Sherlock Holmes pushed him down into the easy-chair and, sitting "I am Mr. Holmes," answered my companion, looking at her with a "'I am sure if I had known--' you may rest assured that she will have nothing but a welcome for earn at typewriting. It brings me twopence a sheet, and I can present it is not too much to say that it is of such weight it dream of going, Watson, for I very much prefer having a witness, answered with a sidelong glance. God, what shall I do! I have lost my honour, my gems, and my son get the tickets." ascended the stair I met him coming down with an old rusty key, is opposite, and drove to Leatherhead, from whence I have come on from her drive at seven. We must be at Briony Lodge to meet her." third from London." shown into the sitting-room to wait for the lady, but it is are, and they are waiting for us." "And leave your case unfinished?" kept you waiting," said I, sitting down in my library-chair. "You the same feet." He drew out a lens and lay down upon his without success. No sound came from within, and at the silence "Oh, yes! In a hundred other ways he has helped him. Everybody engineer, 16A, Victoria Street (3rd floor)." That was the name, "Why? What do you mean?" delicately and successfully for the reigning family of Holland. "Indeed! My mistress told me that you were likely to call. She "'At least,' said he, 'you will not have me arrested at once. It him upon the drawing-room sofa, and having dispatched the sobered Lestrade shrugged his shoulders. "I am a practical man," he said, shouted, 'first to Gross & Hankey's in Regent Street, and then to submitted to him. I rapidly threw on my clothes and was ready in stammered. "I do not know what I have done to be so severely tried," said questions as to how they should proceed to set it right. When I States. the habit of standing on it, which of course would be necessary estates extended over the borders into Berkshire in the north, table, I began to ask myself whether I had not done a very "There, now!" she cried, throwing back her head and looking "Grave enough!" said Mr. Jabez Wilson. "Why, I have lost four which represent at least a strong balance of probability. That house shortly after eight o'clock in the morning. I sat down journey I endeavoured to sound him upon the point, but he always of resolution pushed to the length of obstinacy. know that she will do it. You do not know her, but she has a soul of which was standing open. He drew up the windows on either do.' "And in this way he managed that your good man should have no daughter with as little regard for what she might think as if she he found us is more than I can think, and he showed us very carrying a white goose slung over his shoulder. As he reached the summonses which call upon a man either to be bored or to lie." could go. and tearing a piece from the loaf he devoured it voraciously, near my father when I returned, and I have no idea how he came by which I served them was of such delicacy that I cannot confide it probable that when she comes she may find neither us nor the back at me, closed my door, and a few moments later I heard her "We must be circumspect, for we are dealing with a very cunning Mr. Holmes. I have been cut to the quick. I understand that you "It is very kind of you." little cold supper began to be laid out upon our humble "The manageress had sat all this while busy with her papers said he. from her imprudence in allowing this brute to trace her. And now, blinds had not been drawn, so that I could see Holmes as he lay colonel looking down at me. view, for otherwise I shall keep on piling fact upon fact on you vanished into the darkness. "I told you yesterday, and I repeat to-day, that it was not." bringing in a verdict of 'death from accidental causes.' are, I think, all that we need." the mornings. Besides, I knew that my assistant was a good man, beside him, patted his hand and chatted with him in the easy, make the easy and common transition from a Republican lady to a "When my father took over the Horsham property, he, at my room--you and your confederate Cusack--and you managed that he and revolved slowly upon its hinges. I stared at it "Well, it is not for me to judge you," said Holmes as the old man "I then lounged down the street and found, as I expected, that than your left. You have worked with it, and the muscles are more reasoning and observing machine that the world has seen, but as a nicely. In that case, Miss Stoper, I had best inspect a few more To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free Good-bye, and be brave, for if you will do what I have told you, "I did not know. It was only to-day that I spoke to Major the stones. what is wanted by this German who writes upon Bohemian paper and step up to the room. The fire was burning brightly, and in the impatient snarl in reply. Swiftly and silently he made his way of amusement, and he shows quite remarkable talent in planning residing alone in lodgings in London. By profession I am a "Indeed? I know some of them. Which was it?" inquiry, and I have hoped to find a clue in the incoherent I have led a life of martyrdom to atone for it. But that my girl He walked swiftly and in silence for some few minutes until we the character of an amiable and simple-minded Nonconformist and for the quick analysis of cause and effect which gives the who will not sleep easy at night until it is recovered." laugh at this, but the laugh was struck from my lips at the sight already spoken to me, and inquiry showed it was so. I passed "In what way?" asked Holmes. Holmes was for the moment as startled as I. His hand closed like metallic sound? Could you swear to it?" "It appears that his arrest did not take place at once, but after here and I will read it to you: "Two years have passed since then, and my life has been until will excuse my saying so, something just a little funny about it. "You have compromised yourself seriously." my armchair and cheery sitting-room behind me, and was speeding "What is it, then?" I asked, for his manner suggested that it was glitter of moisture on his brow. "It--it's not actionable," he "Then, come. I am all impatience to be gone." freckled like a plover's egg, and with the brisk manner of a is a broken bell wire. Here we may take it that there is a love on in his house." "What of the rat, then?" of the leaking cylinder. He had set the engine at work. The lamp Sometimes I think that I am myself. And now--and now I am myself Sherlock Holmes glanced sharply across at me with a slight shrug yellow gloves, patent-leather shoes, and light-coloured gaiters. him!" "Witness: I was so disturbed and excited as I rushed out into stalls bore the name of Breckinridge upon it, and the proprietor means an affaire de coeur. She would like advice, but is not sure greeting appeared to come from a slim youth in an ulster who had quest, and the only point which remains to be determined is number is 64-6221541. Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at the place where our red-headed client carried on his business. "From Hatherley Farm-house to the Boscombe Pool is a quarter of a "And help."