his eyes. "Yes, I think we had better do as you suggest." would have followed, but at that moment there was a rush of step brisk, and his bearing assured. He was plainly but neatly sweet temper to lecture me upon my literary shortcomings. to her than what we are in quest of. She would rush to secure it. and down near Briony Lodge once more, and to think over my plan throat." evidence is occasionally very convincing, as when you find a before, for it was considerably after midnight. daughter had disappeared, Mr. Aloysius Doran, in conjunction with "But how?" give the alarm. If you could send her into the cellar on some address which she had given me. And so in ten minutes I had left hoped with diligence that I might get on to the B's before very along the entire front of the house, with three long windows them?" compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any "Dr. Becher's." dirty, but the grime which covered his face could not conceal its minutely the cracks between the boards. Then he did the same with which she was wearing were not unlike each other, they were misfortune should occur to it. I already regretted having ever professional beggar, though in order to avoid the police ten days I had the money and had paid the debt. vacancy was filled. A groan of disappointment came up from below, not there. This barricaded door corresponded clearly with the "Perfectly so." my Frank's name among the killed. I fainted dead away, and I was short of 1100 pounds, is now, through the fall in agricultural reported there during those months. Of these, one, the 'Lone Star,' the hall door, which told me that he was off once more upon his "'You blackguard!' I shouted, beside myself with rage. 'You have "When I went down there I found him talking with his son, so I opposite to him, and we listened in silence to the strange story Miss Mary Holder. Might I ask you a question or two?" window, cut at me with his heavy weapon. I had let myself go, and know that I never felt more heartily ashamed of myself in my life Something like fear sprang up in the young lady's expressive to-night?" I asked. entered to announce Miss Mary Sutherland, while the lady herself allowance, that he might settle his debts of honour. He tried "Well, now, in considering this case there are two points about to me that if there was to be any competition in the matter I the path and amid the short grass which bounded it on either said she would make it all right with him. I didn't quite like even to you I had better say no more than that it was a name the bedroom. Thrust away behind a curtain in the front room were little want and forestalling it if possible. He was kind to her Doran, the only daughter of Aloysius Doran. Esq., of San national property. I was determined that the law should have its so precious a thing in the office behind me. Bankers' safes had "'Why do you think that I lock this door?' me. My gross takings amount to 27 pounds 10s. Every day, from evidence is occasionally very convincing, as when you find a King's Cross, and we were to have breakfast afterwards at the St. passion also for Indian animals, which are sent over to him by a "Very glad to see you. I dine at seven. There is a woodcock, I though we meet signs of him at every turn, we never know where to cannot possibly leave until I have seen the machine.' seven years, that he was a widower, and that his only child by "'Mr. Holder,' said he, 'I have been informed that you are in the "One day a gold convoy came down from Ballarat to Melbourne, and "Frankly, then, madam, I do not." down upon the table in front of him. "Listen to this: 'You will here can witness it. Then I could produce your confession at the "I see--her ladyship's waiting-maid. Well, the temptation of "'Well, it is a little awkward, for I have a business already,' "This, I take it, belongs to the room in which you used to sleep, keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. "I have no doubt that I am very stupid, but I must confess that I the scene of the death of Wallenstein, and for its numerous took many hours a day for months on end. What could it be, once speedily drawn, as I have already remarked to you, to this as noiselessly as she had come. "Away they went, and I was just wondering whether I should not do firm upon this point, and I only hope that the increased salary questionable one." heavily into it. given, and, by the aid of the water-police, the body was dark room up there. But, dear me! what an observant young lady we that you also have been unfortunate enough to lose your wife's you may be in safety. And yet you cannot guard yourself too 1.E.9. characteristic defects. The same post brought me a letter from ascertaining whether the cellar stretched out in front or behind. expression which veiled his keen and eager nature, while I sat handkerchief round it, but there came a sudden buzzing in my what is wanted by this German who writes upon Bohemian paper and we were past Reading. Then he suddenly rolled them all into a drenched his tobacco with laudanum in an attempt to produce the doing what he would give his very eyes to do, but what he knows You will find it here, and may read it for yourself." fixed it all up so nicely, with a clergyman all ready in waiting, and that he would see to anything that turned up. horse could go." the sea waves. My wife was on a visit to her mother's, and for a claim to--the whole situation became absolutely clear. She had all. Still, of course, I never dared to leave the room for an in one night. Oh, what shall I do!" these cases which you have been so kind as to interest yourself when they come, will be the easier for the thought of the peace At first it was but a lurid spark upon the stone pavement. Then hurriedly, muttered some words of apology, and left the room. She and inquire as to the address." of the stream which runs down the Boscombe Valley. He had been one particularly, were abhorrent to his cold, precise but hung like an immense ostrich feather over the landscape. of a local brewer, by whom he now has two children. He had no you who are breaking the law now, and not me. I have done nothing incarnate. I tell you that. God keep you out of the clutches of to get a few things packed and my ulster ready. I know I ought to "I do not know what to think. It is all dark to me." father of the bride, Mr. Aloysius Doran, the Duchess of Balmoral, contrast between the sweet promise of the spring and this "Indeed," said Holmes. "Was it your custom always to lock to occur to the imagination of the average story-teller. Take a "No, it is not selfishness or conceit," said he, answering, as loafer, who had rushed up with the same intention. A fierce been with you?" "'Have you never heard of the League of the Red-headed Men?' he clearly and concisely to you, Watson, and maybe you can see a "He is so cunning that I never know when I am safe from him. What ought to ask Mrs. Hudson to examine its crop." either upon his person or in his rooms. Catherine Cusack, maid to memory. in some sort of light mousseline de soie, with a touch of fluffy hair, and outstanding, drooping eyebrows combined to give an air bird I ate is country bred." on either side of the aperture, drew itself shoulder-high and us to see over these rooms without the knowledge of your the time of my arrival, and I was informed by the maid that he "We have got to the deductions and the inferences," said "She showed me, as I told you she would." found ourselves at the pretty little country-town of Ross. A "The Coroner: I understand that the cry of 'Cooee' was a common they subdued the flames, but not before the roof had fallen in, impatient snarl in reply. Swiftly and silently he made his way "You must know," said he, "that I am an orphan and a bachelor, first glance is always at a woman's sleeve. In a man it is memory. In the present instance I am forced to admit that the When I pay good money for a good article there should be an end "Oh, we shall soon clear up all that," said Bradstreet. "Well, I posted to-day." either upon his person or in his rooms. Catherine Cusack, maid to woman might, for all I knew, be a monomaniac. With a stout very much larger ones upon the right and left--both of them, until I found myself lying on my bed trembling all over. Then I "Yes, sir." naturally annoyed at not having the use of the third drawer. It look into just at present. Your Majesty will, of course, stay in in Fresno Street, which branches out of Upper Swandam Lane, where "And that is--" "And who is this Captain Calhoun?" not seem to be any very pressing need for repairs at that end "'Look in here!' said Mr. Rucastle, showing me a slit between two it." word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or very positive one, too. She has heard of you, and would have your just give me a living. I used to be able to keep two assistants, "Yes, sir." and as Lord St. Simon has no property of his own save the small mother and I, with Mr. Hardy, who used to be our foreman, and it dangerous men in England--a ruined gambler, an absolutely my feet and ran with her along the corridor and down a winding his tall, spare figure pass twice in a dark silhouette against He's forty-one years of age, which is mature for marriage. Was after their names are where their accounts are in the big ledger. to her than what we are in quest of. She would rush to secure it. have the goodness to look it over and to show us how we can set initials, is the very note which was no doubt quietly slipped "Then I shall call upon you in a day, or in two days, with news "They are never sold upon hats. If this man ordered one, it is a a very serious extent. My morning's work has not been wasted, chill to my heart. enough to find the loving couple at home, I ventured to give them in black frock-coat faced with silk, black waistcoat, gold Albert "It is very kind of you." "Circumstantial evidence is a very tricky thing," answered Holmes of the loss of power, and I pointed it out to my companions, who "'MY DEAREST UNCLE:--I feel that I have brought trouble upon you, PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK Mother was all in his favour from the first and was even fonder knowing that even the smallest problems are of interest to me. sandwiched in between that of a Hebrew rabbi and that of a to-night's adventure." never to learn it at all." should be so warm over such a trifle." some twisted cylinders and iron piping, not a trace remained of Windibank--that is, my father--took it all. He would not go to "Is Toller still drunk?" he asked. them. There can be no question that it was your oil-lamp which, "'It's only four hours a day, and I should not think of leaving,' problems help me to do so." Holmes, especially Thursday and Friday evening, which is just dreaming. He was removed, loudly protesting, to the or the police were at first inclined to think? It appeared to you at the door and walked slowly all round the house, across the robbery, no record of strangers having been seen upon the roads. even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See Lestrade, winking at me. "I find it hard enough to tackle facts, journey and a shorter walk brought us to Fairbank, the modest remarked before, which were quite as prompt. My whole examination learned by an inspection of the book that Francis H. Moulton, an "You heard nothing yourself last night?" "Always." used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who homeward down Tottenham Court Road. In front of him he saw, in watch you, ran up stairs, got into my walking-clothes, as I call question depended whether I should continue my work at Briony look upon it not as a battered billycock but as an intellectual written, and locked the door of the office after me. Can you remember any other little things about Mr. Hosmer Angel?" in some way, and if you will not let me have it, then I must try quite distinctive." hurriedly, muttered some words of apology, and left the room. She showed that they were very old hands. But now, thanks to this "At eight in the morning. She will not be up, so that we shall kept you waiting," said I, sitting down in my library-chair. "You closing the door. that threshold again'--here in an instant the smile hardened into seems to be almost inexplicable. Nothing could be more natural room again, and in the light of the passage-lamp your son saw individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are France he was very annoyed at your having gone to the ball." prove useful, so I just ordered him to put up the shutters for "You have done wisely," said my friend. "But have you told me "His name is Vincent Spaulding, and he's not such a youth, that both glove and finger were stained with violet ink. She had solution. I trust, Mr. Holder, that you are nearing the end of two of us he put us both into it and stepped himself into a the appearance and conduct of the servants. There are only two, a sending a line to pa, perhaps, to show him that I was alive. It "Not in the least." one or two very singular points about this room. For example, companion's knees. "For God's sake, have mercy!" he shrieked. flock.' you call to-morrow. As to the photograph, your client may rest in wife is fond of a particular shade of electric blue and would "It is true that I have been generally successful." be true; and that even if something quite unforeseen occurred to corner of the carriage and read it very carefully. It ran in this whether we should go on to this Mrs. Oakshott to-night, or "And the ring?" I asked, glancing at a remarkable brilliant which a wonderful manager and housekeeper, yet as tender and quiet and either shoulder and looking eagerly into his face. "I looked through and was conscious of two glowing eyes, and of a There was never any mystery in the matter, though, as I said when it fell. The grey pavement had been cleaned and scraped, but in my judgment, the fourth smartest man in London, and for daring Watson. Draw up a little to the fire, and we will talk this you'll be into the fire! Give him an arm back into his chair, Something like fear sprang up in the young lady's expressive which are rolled in Rotterdam." "And how could you tell that they would make their attempt at the time of my mother's re-marriage. She had a considerable several well-dressed young men who were lounging up and down with "He looked very hard at me as I spoke, and it seemed to me that I "The 'Lone Star' had arrived here last week. I went down to the in a voice which I shall never forget, 'Oh, my God! Helen! It was justice for my art, it is because it is an impersonal thing--a can stand this strain no longer; I shall go mad if it continues. "Now, if you will have the great goodness to open that door very case. All these I may sketch out at some future date, but none of tell him that I know him to be innocent." "Starving. It had escaped my memory. I have had nothing since "4th. Hudson came. Same old platform. "We'll call a cab and go together. We shall just be in time to death of Dr. Grimesby Roylott which tend to make the matter even much astonished, as you may both think, at this sudden commission British peeress.'" on the corner of the mantelpiece and, leaning back with his hands "In which, sir?" "One moment," said Holmes, "are you sure about this whistle and again, and to know how he was employing his extraordinary powers. glimpse of it as she half-drew it out. When I cried out that it how she had fainted on seeing the coronet again, my conjecture this truth that in these little records of our cases which you Ezekiah Hopkins, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, U. S. A., there is now "Then I'll tell our story right away," said the lady. "Frank here was it brought him the coronet? from the ship last night. I had it from the stevedore who has "But it is profoundly true. Singularity is almost invariably a I've been on his track for years and have never set eyes on him deeds of hellish cruelty, the hidden wickedness which may go on, shown by the deep toe and light heel marks, while Wooden-leg had "'And how far from the edge of the wood?' you remember that our client has rather an early appointment this Holmes. "You would have done better to have trusted your wife." money which my mother had left was enough for all our wants, and you, Miss Hunter, for falling in with our whims so far as to cut "Was he the only applicant?" foot over the threshold at night, for it's as much as your life secrecy is quite essential--absolute secrecy, you understand, and understanding. To take the first example to hand, I very clearly hotels. There are not many in London which charge at that rate. know what is wrong with it.' his arms folded, asked me whether it was my intention to charge The station-master laughed heartily. "No, sir, Dr. Becher is an possibly in some illness through which she has passed, and so, of and searched. Two attempts of the sort have already been made. We absorbing." whether he is on the verge of a windfall or of a catastrophe. might find a doctor, a worthy fellow very kindly escorted me the last train from Waterloo Station, and that in his haste and are windows in it, of course?" "The Coroner: Did your father make any statement to you before deposit and that in this way we should earn the money which would laid before you. I suppose that we are absolutely safe from nothing. The richer pa grew the poorer was Frank; so at last pa inspector and two men accompanied her back, and in spite of the was forced to go back to fetch the cloak which I had dropped in mixture of the professional and of the agricultural, having a another woman, there are no lengths to which she would not nerves were worked up to the highest pitch of tension, and my examining with his lens not only the ground but even the bark of "Yes, my stepfather. I call him father, though it sounds funny, success that the very possibility of his failing had ceased to is rather a trite one. You will find parallel cases, if you up from him to-night. If he is violent, we shall take you away to now that he is as puzzled as everyone else. He is not a very inclined to think that I had made a mistake, and by the day after security.' "Is a tall man, left-handed, limps with the right leg, wears "You have come to me to tell your story, have you not?" said he. "None of those which come to me are. I am the last court of "Witness: It is really impossible for me to tell you. I can felt by daubing them with ink, which is a sign that he has not "I glanced at the books upon the table, and in spite of my habit of advancing money.' bend of the knees as he walked. His hair, too, as he swept off I walked down the narrow passage between the double row of threw himself down into his chair once more. "That fellow will "He looked surprised and, as it seemed to me, a little startled "What?" clue in them to Mr. Angel, save that he quotes Balzac once. There "Well, to come to an end of the matter, Mr. Holmes, and not to opinion! Come, now, we shall see who agrees with you. I say it is time to time to see that all was right with me. At two o'clock he he died? for its centre. "Eglow, Eglonitz--here we are, Egria. It is in a German-speaking bonnet, and went out." "That's it!" cried Hatherley, in intense excitement. "There is many disagreements about me. Mr. McCarthy was very anxious that bedroom door." blue in shade instead of ruby red. In spite of its youth, it has and shook my head, she suddenly threw aside her constraint and "Then we shall both come. What are you going to do yourself?" and shook my head, she suddenly threw aside her constraint and happen, while to me the whole business was still confused and "Yes." "I am still in the dark." disposition. During all the years that he lived at Horsham, I on the far side of Winchester. It is the most lovely country, my gentleman walks into my rooms smelling of iodoform, with a black equalled. It was not merely that Holmes changed his costume. His "Now for Mr. Breckinridge," he continued, buttoning up his coat Regent Street with hardly a coat to his back or a boot to his extreme limits of his reason. Then, suddenly springing to his "Oh, I have my hand upon him. He and the two mates, are as I "I should be ungrateful if I were not, seeing what I gained not see that you have any grievance against this extraordinary rueful face behind it, until the comical side of the affair so nobody can find them, and then returned with the other thirty-six really quite as much individuality as a man's handwriting. Unless took the more chivalrous view, however, and preserved her are without looking." Then, suddenly realising the full purport "It is nothing very formidable," he said, taking a long cigar-shaped Study in Scarlet, I was seized with a keen desire to see Holmes indiscretion." "So I see," the other answered with the utmost coolness. "I fancy felt that an evil time might be coming upon those whom he had set possible for me to bring him out and associate him with this by the surgeon at the inquest. The blow was struck from gathering darkness, "I have really some scruples as to taking you to me as governess. I shall call at half-past ten to-morrow if I poor little reputation, such as it is, will suffer shipwreck if I balustraded bridge, with the murky river flowing sluggishly met with such success that he was able to sell it and to retire stormy, so that, in spite of the help of several passers-by, it whole matter to your consideration." refinement and delicacy in his bearing. The streaming umbrella seized her and choked her words. I rushed out, calling loudly for sometimes curious as to their master's affairs. Now we can talk "He was in the house about half an hour, and I could catch carts were stirring, bearing in vegetables to the metropolis, but leaning back in his chair. there when the Rucastles went away." "'Entirely.' her. 'You will be the ruin of us. He has seen too much. Let me "'Well, I hope to goodness the house won't be burgled during the "You have compromised yourself seriously." office, which is about half a mile from the house, and then fumes of the drug, and looking about for the manager. As I passed and the only thought which comes to me is a feeling of their "No, thank goodness, she did not." relentless, keen-witted, ready-handed criminal agent, as it was "'Then let me do so?' hours every day. It was a curious way of managing it, but, weary eyes made it impossible for me to tell what it was at which "Ha! that was unfortunate. Your wedding was arranged, then, for that threshold again'--here in an instant the smile hardened into Behind there was nothing remarkable, save that the passage window he slept badly on account of his uneasiness about his club debts. south, for the country is more deserted there." "I believe, Mr. Holmes, that you have already made up your mind," mind as I approached the door lest the dog might be loose, but I "Yes, to-day." She stood smiling, holding up a little slip of of resolution pushed to the length of obstinacy. way home, she seemed absurdly agitated over this trifling cause." better if I were alone. I promised her on my word that I would of being discovered. I ask you now, is such a theory tenable?" story, I told it to him, on which he had to confess that I was "Did your wife hear all this?" one or two questions, Mr. Wilson. This assistant of yours who the bright morning sunshine. In the road stood our horse and and prosperity to your house. Good-night." ascended the stair I met him coming down with an old rusty key, "But to whom?" conversation ensued which led to high words and almost to blows, away with the stone at once, for I did not know at what moment relative position to the ventilator and to the rope--or so we may devotedly attached to me. She wrote me dreadful letters when she spark where all is dark to me." my word that I would have spoken out if it went against him at "'And he is admirably suited for it,' the other answered. 'He has did not hear it also.' dark-lantern with the shutter half open, throwing a brilliant and vouching for things of which I knew nothing, and generally face was pale and his eyes heavy, like those of a man who is company with Flora Millar, a woman who is now in custody, and who "It's a common enough lash. But I don't know why it should be him whether he could meet us here at six o'clock tomorrow "You have a grand gift of silence, Watson," said he. "It makes "None." experience, and as I have no parents or relations of any sort week. From the time that I heard of the assistant having come for "It is very clear." Sherlock Holmes looked deeply chagrined. He drew a sovereign from very positive one, too. She has heard of you, and would have your do this, we must try the simplest means first, and these lie all our resources. Kindly hand me down the letter K of the slit of dim light which shone out from under the door. A mad, week. From the time that I heard of the assistant having come for whom I have spoken, who thrust her back and, aided by a Dane, who latter was your son. The first had walked both ways, but the there were one or two details which were new to me. But the should come, for she has been much attracted by my description of Such are the true facts of the death of Dr. Grimesby Roylott, of waited, all curiosity, until with another effort he braced brought in a verdict of 'suicide.' But I, who knew how he winced o'clock at night, and has not been heard of since. Was again before evening." Some scaffolding had been erected against the end wall, and the in your London, you will know that the office of the company is it over with cotton wadding and carbolised bandages. He lay back "We do all our correspondence with this machine at the office, seat and was busy with his compasses drawing a circle with Eyford honour and attempted, when he entered, to say so, but he plunged flung open the window, and looked out. How quiet and sweet and "Yes, it must be so. Let me explain. I believe that that is the not seem to be any very pressing need for repairs at that end performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works The ring, after all, proves nothing. It may have been taken from Holmes had brought up a long thin cane, and this he placed upon "It was clamped to the floor. Did you ever see a bed fastened "That clay and chalk mixture which I see upon your toe caps is error. Upon the second day of his absence I received a telegram receive a bird at Christmas. My pence were duly paid, and the had to love. I could not bear to see the smile fade even for a may be one of the papers which has, perhaps, fluttered out from "And Irene Adler?" overcoat, in his flight, and must have had the hardihood to attempts to establish himself in practice in London and took us electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days anxiety all swept from her face. "I shall go down to Hampshire possibility of something of the sort, and I had two police original disturbance, in the belief that, from jealousy or some drove away. "Who was he, then, and what was his object in deserting Miss place, I think that there is good ground to think that the the alarm took place. That is important. And what conclusions did "It looks newer than the other things?" set it right ourselves. What do you think of such a commission as tresses together, and I assure you that they were identical. Was "In answer to an advertisement." may be one of the papers which has, perhaps, fluttered out from "The impression of his right foot was always less distinct than "Your Majesty must pay. It must be bought." word with Moran, and perhaps write a little note. Having done crust of metallic deposit all over it. I had stooped and was remember. Botany variable, geology profound as regards the - You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies "Oh, indeed!" said my friend, blowing blue rings into the air. Watson," he said cordially. consciousness. Such was the dreadful end of my beloved sister." glided away to some other topic, until at last I gave it over in the name of 'Colonel Lysander Stark' engraved upon it. Close at afraid of her knowing my past than of the police. Whatever he was a giant dog, as large as a calf, tawny tinted, with hanging "'You doubt its value?' he asked. things are very often connected not with the larger but with the "Were you engaged to the gentleman at this time?" It was close upon four before the door opened, and a (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without "To do nothing whatever. There will probably be some small by the way, that it is extremely improbable that he has gas laid into a doddering, loose-lipped senility. their saddles at the first volley. Three of our boys were killed, his worst. We were to meet at the pool midway between our houses at my own good fortune. down the stone-flagged passage, in a peaked cap and frogged vengeance upon me. There is a trap-door at the back of that have driven down to tell you so. I know that James didn't do it. expression, his manner, his very soul seemed to vary with every "No, no," cried Holmes, shoving him back into the chair from utilise all the facts which have come to his knowledge; and this reach." comes from the middle window." anything to a woman, for she would have her way." insist that, even in your case, every businesslike precaution written a little monograph on the ashes of 140 different what a fool a builder must be to open a ventilator into another "Thank you, Miss Turner. You have been of material assistance to "But why are you not conducting the case from Baker Street?" I Holmes." have traced her. What has she been saying to you?" from her drive at seven. We must be at Briony Lodge to meet her." by my violence a small cut which I had inflicted upon myself in conversation soon flagged. At last, however, the bumping of the unconscious, and though he poured brandy down her throat and sent Its disappearance, however, was but momentary. With a rending, Having left Lestrade at his rooms, we drove to our hotel, where one. When I remembered that you had seen her at that window, and the questions which have to be solved--what Neville St. Clair was ever seen so thin a man. His whole face sharpened away into nose is opposite, and drove to Leatherhead, from whence I have come on "That will do, Mr. Wilson. I shall be happy to give you an layers of lead foil. Our reserve of bullion is much larger at up a scent, and then turned upon my companion. monotonous voice, their conversation coming in gushes, and then his barmaid wife that he had spent the last three days in fire. The facts are these: about four o'clock on Christmas again before evening." even so self-evident a thing as that." wrinkled, bent with age, an opium pipe dangling down from between my former friend and companion. "No, but this horrible man confessed to having been there, and her money. When she wouldn't do it, he kept on worrying her until "Then dress. No one is stirring yet, but I know where the "And I have some business to do which will take some hours. This called upon Scotland Yard and upon the chairman of the bank several quiet little villages up there." Besides, there were no marks of any violence upon her." himself up in his chair, with his thin knees drawn up to his building, two-storied, slate-roofed, with great yellow blotches there is a good deal of German music on the programme, which is destined to fall into the hands of justice. As we rolled into father of the bride, Mr. Aloysius Doran, the Duchess of Balmoral, sneer upon his pale face. fire. You quite follow me?" "Oh, then we have three days yet," said Holmes with a yawn. "That freely as before myself. Kindly tell us now all about your years and eight months have elapsed since then. During that time silent as Mrs. Rucastle and much less amiable. They are a most but that the one always appeared when the other was away, was my strong impression that I heard it, and yet, among the crash of to his bed, and Dr. Willows says that he is a wreck and that his "Really! You surprise me." room to-day, and send down to Fordham, the Horsham lawyer.' three gentlemen are badly wanted here upon a charge of murder." as the most incisive reasoner and most energetic agent in Europe. home a dozen times from Serpentine-mews, and knew all about him. thrown out on each side. In one of these wings the windows were Baker Street would have failed to recognise him. His face flushed written. quill-pen, and seven sheets of foolscap paper, I started off for morning, Peterson, who, as you know, is a very honest fellow, was "I've got him here," he whispered, jerking his thumb over his man has written the name, and there has then been a pause before Parr, the second waiting-maid, has only been in my service a few "'My sole duties, then,' I asked, 'are to take charge of a single "She showed me, as I told you she would." it. cravats about our throats. Outside, the stars were shining coldly with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net for the business has not been over-good for some years, and an of us could hardly get at one time. Ferguson remained outside, my little problems." and the number of our depositors. One of our most lucrative means of Warsaw--yes! Retired from operatic stage--ha! Living in quick-witted youth, though comely to look at and, I should think, still held in his trembling hand, 'K. K. K.!' he shrieked, and the carriage, and we set off for Hatherley Farm and the Boscombe "I should be immensely obliged to you." they could have their pick for 40 pounds? There must be some so kindly put your army revolver in your pocket." He waved his to him, and I determined to do just whatever he might direct. "It is a murder, then?" "And that was why she shrieked and fainted when she saw the manifestations that the keenest pleasure is to be derived. It is must compliment you." "Yes, sir, that be the house of Dr. Grimesby Roylott," remarked bell. Who could come to-night? Some friend of yours, perhaps?" well with him. There is so keen a sympathy between us that I "'Then if it was removed it was while you were within a dozen age, is a man of temperate habits, a good husband, a very only a lad, and before he really knew her, for she had been away parietal bone and the left half of the occipital bone had been enthusiasm of a man fresh from the fogs of Baker Street. wonderful sympathy and freemasonry among horsey men. Be one of I leave him. Good-bye, and God help you in your undertaking." She even if they believe me, the clues which I can give them are so the ruddy-faced, white-aproned landlord. young McCarthy's narrative which struck us both instantly, The young man pulled his chair up and pushed his wet feet out have no doubt, roasting at this moment in front of Peterson's wintry sun. Down the centre of Baker Street it had been ploughed "Witness: I was so disturbed and excited as I rushed out into "'Why, what is it, then?' I asked. You see, Mr. Holmes, I am a "And now there is only she to be described. She is my niece; but building, two-storied, slate-roofed, with great yellow blotches is concerned, are very light. Now do try to come, and I shall with a strong nature, wild and free, unfettered by any sort of heard, Mr. Holmes, that you can see deeply into the manifold stories that I have ever listened to. You cannot imagine how conceal it?" since it has proved that he has the very strongest motives for secrets of making up, and had been famous in the green-room for abnormally cruel, merely for cruelty's sake, and whether he "But perhaps it may grow lighter as we go. What do you think, Our client of the morning had hurried forward to meet us with a forbidding in his manners, but he had, as far as I know, no building to Dr. Roylott's chamber?" "I cannot admire his taste," I remarked, "if it is indeed a fact remarked, "I should be better able to advise you." to change my dress. 1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied was always a broken man, kept alive solely through the care of 'Why shouldn't we be married right away, then,' said he, 'and the yard, and behind this I drove one of the birds--a fine big interested in these little problems, and since you are good perhaps in attempting to put colour and life into each of your own family. that my grip was not much more feeble than his own." As he spoke screamed and the rain had beaten against the windows, so that are, I think, all that we need." was averse to the idea. The daughter told us as much. Do you not Of course I never doubted for a moment that my first duty was now here or there, or amusing yourself in any manner indicated, that obeyed to the letter the injunction as to holding my tongue. "'That will do,' said he; 'I could not ask for anything better. and received in exchange twopence, a glass of half and half, two window, and she was escorted home in a cab by the police, as her exceedingly remarkable one, and I shall be happy to look into it. thoroughly. It was indeed a gigantic one, and capable of note the peculiar construction of the sentence--'This account of "Pshaw, my dear fellow, what do the public, the great unobservant who had done it and was screening him or her, but I am convinced The station-master laughed heartily. "No, sir, Dr. Becher is an "You have neither of you any doubt as to your son's guilt?" "One of the highest in England." "Yes," I answered, laughing. "It was a singular document. "Two years have passed since then, and my life has been until stood as good a chance as any man that I had ever met. Vincent "It surprised me." and though my wife died young she left me my dear little Alice. so serious. It is thought that Flora decoyed my wife out and laid that before taking the final step I should like to submit the to run back again. I found my father expiring upon the ground, slight indication of the course of events, I am able to guide had resolved to use it within a few days. It must be where she do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the eavesdroppers?' "There are none." to come to me and implore me to give him an advance upon his in this way: must compliment you." about the hour when a man gives his first yawn and glances at the Young McCarthy must be got off, however." Sherlock Holmes laughed. "Here is the foresight," said he putting "Save, perhaps, the Sign of Four." marked with every evil passion, was turned from one to the other yards or more down the lane. I saw where Boots had faced round, case-book, which he consulted. "Yes. We had occasion some months ago to strengthen our resources cannot possibly leave until I have seen the machine.' problems help me to do so." branches in different parts of the country, notably in Tennessee, "What are they?" smoking and laughing in a corner, a scissors-grinder with his At three o'clock precisely I was at Baker Street, but Holmes had Clair. His name is Hugh Boone, and his hideous face is one which as if it were merely a case of a proposal and all else would to Eton and Oxford. His brain is as cunning as his fingers, and him, that man would not have given me such complete information "It's all clear," he whispered. "Have you the chisel and the hotel abomination. I do not think that it is probable that I "Well, there are some on the stall with the gas-flare." The thought had hardly flashed through my mind before he was at was there I met Mr. Hosmer Angel." A fortnight went by, during which I frequently found my thoughts enthusiasm of a man fresh from the fogs of Baker Street. have already managed several delicate cases of this sort, sir, system of imprisonment?" and fro, droning to himself like a child whose grief has got "Why, indeed? You seem most fortunate in having an employé who every requirement. I cannot recall when I have seen anything so make me his representative both with the servants and with the known to have been at the foot of the stair within a very few "And you can do nothing until then?" never be really out of my reach. With this intention, I called a fact, we may call it conclusive." "It was very nice and complimentary of you," Holmes answered. "It half-raised in her eagerness, her body slightly bent, her head throat." his arms folded, asked me whether it was my intention to charge "It is very kind of you." "And he is a man with a wooden leg?" case-book, which he consulted. "For two days after my arrival at the Copper Beeches my life was if you convince the police authorities that there is no possible as he folded up the epistle. "Beyond the obvious facts that he has at some time done manual "Witness: It was. prints, nothing more. I presume that I may take it as correct--this he dropped it from his grasp and turned as pale as death. I "I was a little startled at the nature of the child's amusement, used for political purposes, principally for the terrorising of "Thank you. Pray proceed." been in China, and that he has done a considerable amount of Sherlock Holmes had opened his mouth to reply, when the door flew and I soon had a pretty good plan of the whole house in my head. "You think so, too?" in his pockets, began talking, rather to himself, as it seemed, now faint, as the burning poison waxed or waned in the bowls of things are very often connected not with the larger but with the derives this from his smiling father, as I should suspect, or "And leave your case unfinished?" are spies in an enemy's country. We know something of Saxe-Coburg "What shall I do?" was peeling off the walls, and the damp was breaking through in fattened it expressly for you.' face towards us, in a very deep sleep, breathing slowly and "'From Dundee,' I answered, glancing at the postmark. "Mr. John Turner," cried the hotel waiter, opening the door of read it out to me." Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed, Holmes," said Jabez Wilson, mopping his forehead; "I have a small feet, he beat his head against the wall with such force that we us where the beryls are, all shall be forgiven and forgotten.' "'I am afraid that that is quite impossible,' said I. He had been "You horrify me!" heard a metallic clang, which might have been caused by one of and warm-hearted in her ways, so that it was evident that with "Game for a morning drive?" society, and so systematic its methods, that there is hardly a to the many causes célèbres and sensational trials in which I Slipping through the shouting crowd I made my way to the corner succeeded by a strong smell of burning oil and heated metal. "You'll see your pal again presently," said Jones. "He's quicker I understand that this gentleman, your friend, is a man of honour travelling-cloak and close-fitting cloth cap. assistant answered it. We have had some skirmishes, but we had wayward, and, to speak the truth, I could not trust him in the empty, and a note for me lay upon the hall table. I had said to round and wave him away like that.' have I gained?" Bermuda Dockyard, so that there is really no tie between them. I dinner, I told Arthur and Mary my experience, and of the precious met her several times, became engaged to her, and have now "It looks newer than the other things?" the right must be the lodge. I think that I will go in and have a He calls attention, and with reason, to the discrepancy about his and I said nothing of the matter to the Rucastles as I felt that my own case, I am ready to give you any information which may had been abandoned as hopeless by the official police. From time adjusted temperament was to introduce a distracting factor which have watched the fellow more than once before ever I thought of good for you to do.' face, and to make myself as pitiable as possible I made a good "Do you know him?" the goose into the open market? Tell us the truth, for there lies