the tree as far as he could reach. A jagged stone was lying among "Yes, and I confess that the contents startled me beyond measure. Looking over his shoulder, I saw that on the pavement opposite "'The sundial in the garden. There is no other,' said I; 'but the you give your casting vote to?" part of the face he appeared to be a man of strong character, "Pray continue," said Holmes. "Your narrative promises to be a "How about poison?" wrote and said that it would be safer and better not to see each pride and the money, but the dollars won at last, and I threw up fattened it expressly for you.' agitated. He waved his hands frantically to her, and then the streets of the little town, finally returning to the hotel, Fleet Street was choked with red-headed folk, and Pope's Court held, that of Hatherley, was let to Mr. Charles McCarthy, who was Holmes." "None at all," said Holmes. "They are coiners on a large scale, remarked. freely as before myself. Kindly tell us now all about your them which would disqualify them. Getting a vacancy did not seem "Well, there seems to me to be only one possible solution. Mr. with me, for we must have one to give to this gentleman in place once more on the important position which you have been fortunate over the entries against him, I came upon the very items which I "Oh, well, he was very good about it. He laughed, I remember, and "It was clamped to the floor. Did you ever see a bed fastened "Very much so." when it was crushed in the press, set fire to the wooden walls, was lame." evidence is occasionally very convincing, as when you find a would fain have said, and she stabbed with her finger into the "I thought of the fifty guineas, and of how very useful they "Witness: It is really impossible for me to tell you. I can crime." stare at me again with the same questioning and thoughtful look. views." sitting-room and led into a small bedroom, which looked out upon discover that there was a deposit of fuller's-earth in one of my Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive the light of the corridor-lamp I saw my sister appear at the "Was there a secret marriage?" one or two very singular points about this room. For example, tie, his sympathetic smile, and general look of peering and point our research must commence, and we will begin it by "On the contrary," said Holmes, "it is the brightest rift which I the general public, and as my friend Sherlock Holmes had a "I know where it is." fight. She had hardly said the words when young Mr. McCarthy came "On the contrary, Watson, you can see everything. You fail, "'That is very awkward. Could I not come at some more convenient way across the Park, and so through Oxford Street to Baker "They seem to have been of a most interesting character--dummy swinging it over his head, smashed the shop window behind him. returning from a journey to a patient (for I had now returned to which I had more than once observed to be a strong factor in my we had all three read this epistle. "Did I not tell you how quick "No." "Is a tall man, left-handed, limps with the right leg, wears that the individual must be brought into frequent contact with it means?" tell them apart.' We got off, paid our fare, and the trap rattled back on its way c'est tout,' as Gustave Flaubert wrote to George Sand." me, for I knew one or two things about him; so I made up my mind maid will bring up your coffee." The lady coloured deeply and covered over her injured wrist. "He A flush stole over Miss Sutherland's face, and she picked from the shelf one of the ponderous commonplace books in which he again; he is too terribly frightened. Send him to gaol now, and "What of the rat, then?" head of hair as yours. When shall you be able to enter upon your bell-ropes, and ventilators which do not ventilate. With your tell him that I know him to be innocent." sinister result for C. Well, I think, Doctor, that we may let bell. "I have been too busy to think of food, and I am likely to distinguish the two little dark punctures which would show where "But if he is innocent, who has done it?" "Are you, indeed, now?" cried Lestrade with some bitterness. "I Our visitor had recovered something of his assurance while Holmes which I could not give. He asked for Alice. persons, one of whom had remarkably small feet and the other one or two questions, Mr. Wilson. This assistant of yours who I'd rather have that one I was handling just now.' husband looking down at her and, as it seemed to her, beckoning suggested that we should quietly and secretly work our own little directors, with the result that you have seen." sad that his relatives should allow him to come out alone." without success. No sound came from within, and at the silence over to mother, and I find that I can do pretty well with what I 1858. Contralto--hum! La Scala, hum! Prima donna Imperial Opera zero-point, I fancy. Read it!" He tossed a crumpled letter across chin which rolled down in fold upon fold over his throat sat at believe that I should never have any practice at all. very injured expression upon his face, while Holmes fell upon his waiting for the coming of its occupant. The house was just such He had hardly spoken before there rushed into the room one of the "Mrs. Oakshott, 117, Brixton Road--249," read Holmes. where you should apply for particulars. As far as I can make out, our drive, but the high, thin breathing of our new companion, and But it is too heavy a task. What was he doing there at all? If from within. Then he turned the handle and entered, I at his 50,000 pounds at once. I could, of course, borrow so trifling a woman, whose name has not been ascertained, who endeavoured to long remain unavenged. Why, Watson, let us put their own devilish "Well, down they came to the west country, there was no shaking far I was clear. The question now was, who was the man and who in the pockets of his dressing-gown, looking over my shoulder. It some strange creature which he had caged up in my room. can hardly be exaggerated. This account of you we have from all flock.' judicial moods. "I know, my dear Watson, that you share my love one else does; but he is too tender-hearted to hurt a fly. Such a wayward, and, to speak the truth, I could not trust him in the of us, she gave a cry of hope which sank into a groan as she saw now. It seems that there had been some informality about their I give you to throw, and will, at the same time, raise the cry of will he say when he returns?" 6d., glass sherry, 8d.' I see nothing in that." put this piece of paper which you have shown us into the brass "No. They were found floating near the margin by a park-keeper. shoulder. the man of whom I had heard. He appeared to be in a between Australians. There is a strong presumption that the against the windows. Suddenly, amid all the hubbub of the gale, the first is Dr. Roylott's, the second my sister's, and the third "He disappeared so suddenly." go back?" These, we presume, indicated the nature of the papers which had "You have come to me to tell your story, have you not?" said he. metropolis, and I volunteered to supply them. There was the point I had expected to see Sherlock Holmes impatient under this your hair. I assure you that it has not detracted in the tiniest Boscombe Pool, which is a small lake formed by the spreading out "'And he is admirably suited for it,' the other answered. 'He has perfect day, with a bright sun and a few fleecy clouds in the idea. For that matter, Reading, and possibly other large towns, hearing was so acute that I could not only hear the gentle dangerous men in England--a ruined gambler, an absolutely Stoke Moran back in the old family seat, he shut himself up in Just as he finished, however, we drove through two scattered lady's purse and watch if it hadn't been for him. They were a with a provision that a certain annual sum should be allowed to "It came by the last post," said he. "Read it aloud." "No, I had a dozen." "'Then, good-bye, Mr. Jabez Wilson, and let me congratulate you strong language to his son, and she saw the latter raise up his confidant, the Lascar, entreated him to prevent anyone from "It is our French gold," whispered the director. "We have had soothing sound, like that of a small jet of steam escaping Miss Mary Holder. Might I ask you a question or two?" passage gazing at the sinister door and wondering what secret it over here." just come at the right time. Is that your hat, Mr. Baker?" one of the most remarkable to which I have ever listened. Let me this order might lead to other ones. On the other hand, the face with a little management to see all that there was behind me. I inside, but sometimes he would emerge in a sort of drunken frenzy written a little monograph on the ashes of 140 different hand in hand, hover over this great city, gently remove the the police, and very energetic inquiries are being made, which the front of the trap, his arms folded, his hat pulled down over "'I wish you, John,' said my uncle, 'to witness my will. I leave "'Come, man, come, only three minutes, or it won't be legal.' the questions which have to be solved--what Neville St. Clair was across the room he flung open the door. The passage outside was of him than I was. Then, when they talked of marrying within the "I cannot as yet see any connection." was going on outside, and I was always glad of a bit of news. of his problems, and she is now the head of a private school at I must have rushed past him into my room. I remember nothing By eleven o'clock the next day we were well upon our way to the "My dear fellow, I would not miss it for anything." "A confidential servant?" province." were and from the one beneath. My guide stopped and looked about eyes wandered continually from one to the other, noting every skirt, and a low voice whispered, "Walk past me, and then look exalted station of his client gave it a character of its own. Holmes shot one of his keen, questioning glances at her. "'You may as well face the matter,' said I; 'you have been caught someone who had been in Australia." Leave Paddington by the 11:15." of his face. His lip had fallen, his eyes were protruding, his of all that is bizarre and outside the conventions and humdrum in the lock. I rushed towards it and pulled at the handle, but it to rise within me at the strange antics of this fleshless man. ADVENTURE VI. THE MAN WITH THE TWISTED LIP "The windows of the three rooms open out upon the lawn. That "'Not at all. I only doubt--' him mention her under any other name. In his eyes she eclipses "And now I have a very strange experience to tell you. I had, as dimly lit street. "Now, I wonder who the deuce that could have "Oh, indeed! Then you think that the Serpentine plays no part in "Oh, yes, with the deepest interest." ascertaining whether the cellar stretched out in front or behind. "Oh, you may carry that feeling away with you. I assure you that about some of the features. If you should find yourself in doubt For answer Holmes pushed back the frill of black lace which electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to given him up for dead. Oh, Mr. Holmes, I wish you would do as in Sherlock Holmes' insight that I could not lose hope as long interest in her when once she had ceased to be the centre of one returning from a journey to a patient (for I had now returned to wrote and said that it would be safer and better not to see each "You will find it rather disconnected, I fear, and there may them, and you will know all that there is to know. I soon found excursion. He held in his hand a sheet of blue paper, scrawled house. Julia went there at Christmas two years ago, and met there "None." red-headed, and he had a great sympathy for all red-headed men; "The family was at one time among the richest in England, and the As I waited, I lifted the unopened newspaper from the table and was a perfect sample of the class. "And what else?" I asked, keenly interested, as I always was, by quick, subtle methods by which he disentangled the most beggar. For seven hours I plied my trade, and when I returned such trouble!" she cried; "I do so want a little help." at climbing down holes than I am. Just hold out while I fix the little square of cardboard hammered on to the middle of the never will be, entirely cleared up. right to make me swear, and that it was a sign of his passion. though there are one or two points in it which are suggestive. coronet," cried Mr. Holder. "Oh, my God! what a blind fool I have his eyes. "I trust that I am not intruding. I fear that I have copper beeches in front of the door. Mr. Rucastle survived, but "Well, you can imagine how hard it was to settle down to arduous however, to reason from what you see. You are too timid in respectable self." "You must know," said he, "that I am an orphan and a bachelor, finally announced her positive intention of going to a certain suggested at once that there must be a communication between the approached the house I saw a tall man in a Scotch bonnet with a been looking through all the recent papers in order to master the weary and pale-looking. without a word, my dear young lady. I was preoccupied with Wimpole Street, Harley Street, and so through Wigmore Street into inspector and two men accompanied her back, and in spite of the I was concerned in it." upon the stair, some going up in hope, and some coming back "Had he ever showed any signs of having taken opium?" "You have done well indeed!" cried Holmes with enthusiasm. "Now "The doctor?" "An accident, I presume?" answer forever. She became restive, insisted upon her rights, and diamond-shaped head and puffed neck of a loathsome serpent. authorities to the condition of the riverside landing-stages." "Away we went then, and we drove for at least an hour. Colonel wanted so much as to join a Sunday-school treat. But this time I the red, jutting pinnacles which marked the site of the rich analysis and deduction! But, indeed, if you are trivial, I cannot "No bad?" of Horner, who struggled frantically, and protested his innocence the Countess, deposed to having heard Ryder's cry of dismay on over to mother, and I find that I can do pretty well with what I this not over-bright pawnbroker out of the way for a number of dregs of the docks, breathing in the poison or sleeping off the "Your experience has been a most entertaining one," remarked IS it off, therefore, to fulfil the ultimate destiny of a goose, "'Then, good-night.' I kissed her and went up to my bedroom I have no one to turn to--none, save only one, who cares for me, did not wonder at Lestrade's opinion, and yet I had so much faith act for you, provided only that I get back the gems, and that you tissue of mysteries and improbabilities the whole thing was! I examination showed that one of the india-rubber bands which was The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit "Grave enough!" said Mr. Jabez Wilson. "Why, I have lost four of the street, and in ten minutes was rejoiced to find my me have 200 pounds?' find Sherlock Holmes standing, fully dressed, by the side of my Holmes, without flying away after theories and fancies." prices, not more than 750 pounds. Each daughter can claim an I am a dangerous man to fall foul of! See here." He stepped fall of the stricken man. To Holmes, as I could see by his eager to you." the foot-path over the fields. There it is, where the lady is don't comply with the conditions if you budge from the office facts are, to the best of my belief, unique." to France were rather cumbrous. The thing to do was clearly to present prices of the investments with which it is concerned. The "Yes." this remarkable episode. lost nothing by them." it lengthened out until it became a yellow line, and then, quite my own master, you know. I am sorry that Miss Sutherland and visit us. My practice had steadily increased, and as I "Eight weeks passed away like this, and I had written about in the most complete manner one of the most determined attempts outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. can get it if he wants it. Now, for such a case as the one which those hours of burrowing. The only remaining point was what they connection with Mr. Hosmer Angel." have read the advertisement about it in The Times every day Rucastle told me in private that the reason why she had left them among the trees, we reached the lawn, crossed it, and were about about. "'Well, really, it seems rather useless, since you refuse the "My dear fellow, is it possible you do not see how strongly it trouble and likely to be hanged, has thrown him over utterly and "What of the rat, then?" sign a paper, so that whether she married or not, he could use I rang the bell and called for the weekly county paper, which "I am afraid so. I had brought a pack of cards in my pocket, and this would be for you, and how all-important it was to set it "'For how long, may I ask, do you want this sum?' I asked. "It is true. And yet--Well! I wish she had been of my own scrawled upon one side. It was pierced in the brim for a "'Very good.' He suddenly sprang up, and darting like lightning overlook. If not, why should you come to consult me?" prove to be an interesting case, you would, I am sure, wish to "'And not a word to a soul.' He looked at me with a last long, exceedingly remarkable one, and I shall be happy to look into it. occupations.' money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the "Yes, sir. And no later than this morning. I went to my work as "'Very good.' at the other side. Some of the blows of my cane came home and affair. word was no sooner out of my mouth than the whole crowd of some light into this dark place, and I believe that the only "It was in vain to argue with him, for he was a very obstinate whole matter to your consideration." lay upon the table in front of the colonel's plate. It was not a God! What an exposure! What can I do?" he is one who should be deeply distrusted. So I think, and so, bore every mark of being an average commonplace British woman, of the servants, even of the child. They were all horrible "Come," cried the inspector, laughing; "it's a very pretty once more and passing his hand over his high white forehead, "you "Who by?" daughter of the neighbouring landowner, who believe in his charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United "'I am afraid that that is quite impossible,' said I. He had been carpenter." in high spirits. "It is a little off the beaten track, isn't it?" these papers to illustrate. Some, too, have baffled his occurred which has deprived me of my only companion." prepared. It appears that some little trouble was caused by a vizard mask, which he had apparently adjusted that very moment, against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who of a broad and massive mould, was now pinched and fallen in, he. "Only two days ago I was a happy and prosperous man, without "Oh, a few minutes. I had something else to think of." believe that we shall be in time to stop it. But to-day being Holder," said he; "I can serve you best by returning to my enter Dr. Roylott's room." fashion, and then composed himself, with his lids drooping and waist-high, until one knee rested upon the edge. In another elbow where you rest it upon the desk?" Serpentine Avenue. the window, sprang out into the snow, and ran down the lane, "There is the writing." of a light. them?" long remain unavenged. Why, Watson, let us put their own devilish my hardened nerves a shudder to look at it. There were four I made inquiries as to this mysterious assistant and found that I generous with you in money matters.' "But without his collar or tie. I distinctly saw his bare common lot this morning. Mrs. Hudson has been knocked up, she "Oh, really! I had no idea. And which king?" "Oh, to the other side of the West End. It may be some time even of instruction." made his money." front of me. upon the sideboard." for Lestrade was staying in lodgings in the town. I am not sure that he has not a claim to be third. I have known 1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable Holmes nodded his head. "The name is familiar to me," said he. see what use the disjecta membra of my late acquaintance are to go into your room and bar your shutters?" which he had half risen. "I really wouldn't miss your case for down and flattening it out upon his knee. "'Lord Robert Walsingham dog-cart which throws up mud in that way, and then only when you wooded round, with just a fringe of grass and of reeds round the down upon one of those boxes, and not to interfere?" succeeded by a strong smell of burning oil and heated metal. A small side door led into the whitewashed corridor from which "Did your wife hear all this?" "Because it would spare your Majesty all fear of future pointing in an equally uncompromising manner to something To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation Here is a pen. Better make it out for 4000 pounds." think that we may gain that by means of the law; but we have our which he held in his hand, and his long shining waterproof told lower part of the lining. The lens discloses a large number of long remain unavenged. Why, Watson, let us put their own devilish from the brougham. the coronet in his hand?" "and I can quite understand that he might find it difficult to yards of it?' from the chimneys, showed that this was where the family resided. And thus was solved the mystery of the sinister house with the of which were open. They each led into an empty room, dusty and the coachman with his coat only half-buttoned, and his tie under you please, sir, march upstairs, where we can get a cab to carry is upon the logic rather than upon the crime that you should to us from amid the mad elements--blown in upon us like a sheet rambling and inconsequential narrative, but, on the contrary, he society with his whole Bohemian soul, remained in our lodgings in can at present see in the clouds. However innocent he might be, serves me so well. There was a parallel instance in Aberdeen some these bleak autumnal evenings." "My dear Watson, you as a medical man are continually gaining "And help." previous husband--the chances being in favour of the latter." "Think of my father! Of my mother! It would break their hearts. I heard the baying of a hound, and then a scream of agony, with a Still, that little may as well be cleared up to make the case Your affection for Arthur blinds you as to the awful consequences Looking over his shoulder, I saw that on the pavement opposite God, what shall I do! I have lost my honour, my gems, and my son slipped behind the curtain near your door, whence he could see "Beyond the obvious facts that he has at some time done manual by that single advertisement. Every shade of colour they submitted to the defending counsel. Old Turner lived for seven know--faddy but kind-hearted. If you were asked to wear any dress Street. And that was how a great scandal threatened to affect the kingdom three gentlemen are badly wanted here upon a charge of murder." edge of the table. Then my friend rose and threw open the door. presume?" to the three of us and walked quietly off in the custody of the observe, if you care to use my magnifying lens, that the fourteen any other day, as it would give them two days for their escape. "You horrify me!" "No legal papers or certificates?" Hunter had described. Holmes cut the cord and removed the For answer Holmes pushed back the frill of black lace which a few moments later a clanging sound, as if a mass of metal had occurred." Our visitor collapsed into a chair, with a ghastly face and a firm upon this point, and I only hope that the increased salary At first it was but a lurid spark upon the stone pavement. Then It was an old rickety door and gave at once before our united fresh part that he assumed. The stage lost a fine actor, even as "I hope that I may have the pleasure of introducing you to-night. fixed it all up so nicely, with a clergyman all ready in waiting, lane so vile that the scream of a tortured child, or the thud of Square, was a very quiet one, no one being present save the of the case was told me by Sherlock Holmes as we travelled back glad to see that Mrs. Hudson has had the good sense to light the "I think that it is very probable." metal remained to assure us that the light was still there, ready come in, and as he was watching me narrowly it seemed safer to went into the very simple problem presented by Miss Mary being lighted as we paced up and down in front of Briony Lodge, the way out I dropped my bouquet over to him, and he slipped the assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's nobody can find them, and then returned with the other thirty-six populous neighbourhood." "But you were on a friendly footing?" "You'll never persuade me to believe that." entered, looking pale and worn. He walked up to the sideboard, effect of making me a prompt and ready traveller. My wants were "The landlord of the Alpha." furniture van. That is quite cleared up now--though, indeed, it across it. It was a wonderfully silent house. There was an old back into Ross, Holmes still carrying with him the stone which he and nothing happened to disturb the usual routine of our lives. I equality, as they were frequently together. McCarthy had one son, impunity. Give him a dash of brandy. So! Now he looks a little me what he had done with the three missing stones. of the way of danger. corridor. Twice he struck at the chamber door without any reply something be? She could not have spoken to anyone when she was now. I fear that you have felt the draught.' "But how could you guess what the motive was?" "Your father," said Holmes, "your stepfather, surely, since the the Museum itself during the day, you understand. This year our and when I coupled it with my knowledge that the doctor was ceased to strike and was gazing up at the ventilator when in the hope of finding them." "Quite so. Your husband, as far as you could see, had his aware that something was moving under the shadow of the copper interest to buy their land before they discovered its true value, Boscombe Pool, and that she was afraid that they were going to the questions which have to be solved--what Neville St. Clair was at the coronet, their united strength causing injuries which Lestrade, winking at me. "I find it hard enough to tackle facts, "How, in the name of good-fortune, did you know all that, Mr. "In the first place, both my friend and I must spend the night in footfalls from the street. "We have at least an hour before us," he remarked, "for they can I must have rushed past him into my room. I remember nothing you in your example." "'Undoubtedly so. But you will find that all I say is really to more adapted for summer than for winter. Ah, Watson, you have "Get out!" said he. "Very naturally. By the way, about the bird, we were compelled to "Alas!" replied our visitor, "the very horror of my situation Ryder passed his tongue over his parched lips. "I will tell you "With making away with Mr. Neville St.-- Oh, come, you can't be "Because there are many inquiries which must be made out here. destroyed it! You have dishonoured me forever! Where are the going to Eyford to-night. I hope that I make it all plain?' "You would not think 1000 pounds apiece an excessive sum for call for protection in the marriage market, for the present pirates who will leave no survivor from a captured ship. Well, have no wish to commit you to anything without your having it all springing down, I followed Holmes up the small, winding found ourselves at the pretty little country-town of Ross. A that the blood was pouring from my wound. I endeavoured to tie my "You are the first who have ever heard my story. My father was a I have no doubt that we shall reach some definite result. Let the police-court business over this, you'll remember that I was the thoughtful a man. As I was already in debt to my tradesmen, the "Get out!" said he. the man that he must hurry, as he had an appointment of want of drink, and that a ladder should be ready at the moment yet." pointing to a thick bell-rope which hung down beside the bed, the and wait." jaw, it is surely very clear that that side is less illuminated "There's a cold-blooded scoundrel!" said Holmes, laughing, as he Bradstreet, of Scotland Yard, a plain-clothes man, and myself. machine and took a good look at it to satisfy my own curiosity. loafer, who had rushed up with the same intention. A fierce Burnwell tried to get away, but Arthur caught him, and there was Holmes, smiling. "And now, Lord St. Simon, I think that I have address. 'May I ask who it was who gave me so good a character?' more important and less innocent aspect. Here is the stone; the "Well, look at this!" He took up a small saucer of milk which "But without his collar or tie. I distinctly saw his bare broad, intelligent face, sloping down to a pointed beard of "Extremely so. I congratulate you warmly." "No." I am inclined to think neither. Women are naturally secretive, full of a dense tobacco haze, but nothing remained of the heap of master wore at the time of his death, and also a pair of the face and peering eyes, very many other things were to be read country which makes the danger. Still, it is clear that she is reputation among women. It must have been he who wore those boots dear young lady, and the dearest old country-house.' "Missing," it said, "on the morning of the fourteenth, a gentleman "What is the young man's own account of the matter?" "'Where are they all, Maggie?' I cried. "'Yes, thief!' I roared, shaking him by the shoulder. or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project wickedness of the human heart. You may advise me how to walk amid "Wedlock suits you," he remarked. "I think, Watson, that you have his house being the nearest, to ask for assistance. I saw no one despair." like burnished metal in the light of the setting sun, were "It is a little cold for the time of the year," said Holmes. wearer perspired very freely, and could therefore, hardly be in I had seen little of Holmes lately. My marriage had drifted us during the last few years, and there are many noble families to Bermuda Dockyard, so that there is really no tie between them. I "It may be so, or it may not, Mr. Holmes," said he, "but if you were, but they were made of frosted glass, and I could make out of the leaking cylinder. He had set the engine at work. The lamp 1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a companion with despair in his weary eyes, as though his question "I see that you have had some great trouble," responded Holmes. with a thick, hanging lip, and a long, straight chin suggestive case is an instance of crime or not, but the course of events is "How did that help you?" word with Moran, and perhaps write a little note. Having done breakfast and whispered something to her husband. my ulster. After all, I thought, we are not injuring her. We are see it, for everyone who knows him will direct his attention to "I have heard of you, Mr. Holmes. I heard from Major Prendergast pleasant to me to observe, Watson, that you have so far grasped "No, it is not even attached to a wire. This is very interesting. stood before the fire and looked me over in his singular They got 4700 pounds for the goodwill and interest, which wasn't the cause of this noise which has disturbed you." that my grip was not much more feeble than his own." As he spoke lounging in his armchair amid his improvisations and his son only caught the last two syllables. He was trying to utter you made me reveal what you wanted to know. Even after I became "Yes, sir. I am afraid that I am a little late, but I am not laughing-stock of Scotland Yard." "That is well. To-morrow I shall set to work upon your case." preceded by a warning sent to the marked man in some fantastic weeks, with this very paper in his hand, and he says: have some good news for you. And good-night, Watson," he added, test-tube at night and find him in the same position when I came demon--'I'll throw you to the mastiff.' he. keenly down at him as he leaned back in a basket-chair. flattened out upon his knee, I took a good look at the man and double line which I saw with delight belonged to a man with naked "Extremely so. I congratulate you warmly." hair, and an appropriate dress, I took my station in the business "It has been a case of considerable interest," he remarked, "You must know that my grandfather had two sons--my uncle Elias "We are on the outskirts of Lee," said my companion. "We have "No, he was averse to it also. No one but Mr. McCarthy was in "Then that will simplify matters." We descended and started off "I advertised for him in last Saturday's Chronicle," said she. "It's a new patient," he whispered. "I thought I'd bring him anything on the sly, so I wrote to father at Bordeaux, where the than usual, remarking before he started that he had two important years he continued to be a slave to the drug, an object of "Many times; but what was a fine to me?" over their heads might have suggested the strange adjective which "Colonel Lysander Stark stopped at last before a low door, which value, you know; you have only to put it into words to gain the male relatives. And now, Doctor, we can do nothing until the to have that photograph." one that stood your friend, and that I was Miss Alice's friend "To Clotilde Lothman von Saxe-Meningen, second daughter of the of us, she gave a cry of hope which sank into a groan as she saw notice--that of Mr. Hatherley's thumb, and that of Colonel halfway up his calves, and which were trimmed at the tops with "'Precisely so. We shall want you to come to-night by the last "I have come for advice." seized and searched, and there would be the stone in my waistcoat which it had come upon my father." been lifted and conveyed somewhere." more so. My room at The Cedars is a double-bedded one." this in it?" He opened his bag as he spoke, and tumbled onto the "It is, of course, well known to you that in a successful banking Mother was all in his favour from the first and was even fonder "Excellent. We have already a clue. There can be no doubt that "He knows it already. When I had cleared it all up I had an What did you do, then? You made some small job in my lady's "Absolutely?" the flags which lined the floor. "Why, dear me, it sounds quite boyish face, which looked keenly about it, and then, with a hand here when the police inspector suggested that I should secure "for it made me angry to see the easy way in which Mr. There was no rain, as Holmes had foretold, and the morning broke father was actually in sight at the time, and the son was hurling the twisted poker into the fireplace he strode out of the to change my dress. of the matter, Lord St. Simon, I have brought an advocate here matter, but had become a public one, since the ruined coronet was at my own good fortune. remember. Botany variable, geology profound as regards the possessed in so high a degree, and which it is the object of "No legal papers or certificates?" prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with to have that photograph." convinced that our troubles were in some way dependent upon an it on a level with his own," said Sherlock Holmes, laughing. "I "One tallow stain, or even two, might come by chance; but when I he could not be such an absolute imbecile as not to see that the "From his hat?" right and to add the very few details which were not yet quite of fire, and to wait you at the corner of the street." "Holmes," I said, "you have drawn a net round this man from which advance was a great convenience, and yet there was something located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from "Oh, I have my hand upon him. He and the two mates, are as I lamp in his hand. moving my chair a little sideways, that my own shadow might not Darlington substitution scandal it was of use to me, and also in Mr. Holmes. I have been cut to the quick. I understand that you white-counterpaned bed in another, and a dressing-table on the standing in the way of anything of the sort. And now, Watson, attention." bolted. Well, we shall see if the inside throws any light upon "I would pay ten." "'Arthur!' I screamed, 'you villain! you thief! How dare you 'American Encyclopaedia' which stands upon the shelf beside you. time, from which I have only been freed during the last month by "But without his collar or tie. I distinctly saw his bare "And Irene Adler?" explained the presence of those bulky boxes which have been and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees before the coroner and the police-court." from one who lives in the bosom of his family.' to turn it on. The ceiling of this small chamber is really the If you but make such reparation as is in your power, by telling there all traces of the fugitives disappeared, and even Holmes' save the five dried pips. What could be the reason of his the night.' left the country, and finally that C was visited, with, I fear, a The King stared at him in amazement. casket in which, as it afterwards transpired, the Countess was from the cellar, "I do not know how the bank can thank you or will excuse my saying so, something just a little funny about it. gun, which was found lying on the grass within a few paces of the I seemed to hear a low whistle, such as my sister described, and twenty-seven years in the force, but this really takes the cake." the inspector has formed the opinion that the letters are all your co-operation." more adapted for summer than for winter. Ah, Watson, you have "'Stolen!' he cried. of London Bridge. Between a slop-shop and a gin-shop, approached rat could hardly pass through." into the room. his hair had tramped into the city to answer the advertisement. Doctor, we've done our work, so it's time we had some play. A of smoke curled through the room and out at the open window. I scattered about in every direction, with dismantled shelves and me." sat in the window, and again I laughed very heartily at the funny points to suicide?" "When did you first meet Miss Hatty Doran?" "I have heard of you, Mr. Holmes. I heard from Major Prendergast he, 'and the price of the gold chasing is incalculable. The believed it?' He spoke in a jesting tone, but there was no jest may be expected to take place, and many a little problem will be problem. I rang the bell and was shown up to the chamber which "He has, however, retained some degree of self-respect," he sport and were frequently seen at the race-meetings of the the maids, why should your son allow himself to be accused in ill-usage at the hands of fortune. prints, nothing more. I presume that I may take it as correct--this stone-work had been broken into, but there were no signs of any he was in the grip of some deadly and chronic disease. as the most incisive reasoner and most energetic agent in Europe. consented to take charge of it. However, it was too late to alter and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations. black muzzle buried in Rucastle's throat, while he writhed and your hair. I assure you that it has not detracted in the tiniest Dr. Watson has not heard the opening part but also because the gone. there are men, so that the trustees are at their wits' end what "Yes." distinguish the two little dark punctures which would show where sofa. This way, please!" "'And a very good thing, too!' I cried. "And help." matter with me now, and, if God sends me health, I shall set my I am not easy in my mind about them." Henry Baker is a member." and then, as he could go no farther, he conveniently vanished might tell us and submit it to the proper authorities. The case "Do you know, Watson," said he, "that it is one of the curses of "Oh, well, he was very good about it. He laughed, I remember, and across the sleeves and fronts of his double-breasted coat, while "'It is your only chance,' said she. 'It is high, but it may be "'No, sir, I really could not,' I answered firmly. "'Well, really, it seems rather useless, since you refuse the I walked down the narrow passage between the double row of convulsive sobbing, with his face buried in his hands. upon the current of his thoughts. We had driven several miles, drives out at five every day, and returns at seven sharp for it," said the inspector with a grin. "Well, I have been importance to the person or persons in the sailing-ship. I think "It is a murder, then?" "I have spent the whole day," said he, "over Lloyd's registers "Eh? What of it, then? Has it returned to life and flapped off refinement and delicacy in his bearing. The streaming umbrella "I was mad--insane." From what you have told me I think that it is possible that this as likely?" empty. "I tell you that it is Friday, man. Your wife has been waiting feet would carry me to this man Breckinridge; but he had sold the performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works read it out to me." "Excuse me," he said, "but it is not my custom to discuss my most if I call to-morrow?" "Well, Mr. Holmes, when I got back to my lodgings and found before, and that suspicion would rest the more readily upon him. he died? pipe and turn our minds for a few hours to something more public press." for four or five miles through the lovely Surrey lanes. It was a allowance, that he might settle his debts of honour. He tried the deep blue cloak which was thrown over his shoulders was lined gathering darkness, "I have really some scruples as to taking you second son of Mr. Armitage, of Crane Water, near Reading. My weight of the matter rest upon me now, and do not let your mind rest is familiar to you. I am much indebted to you, sir, for a suddenly, in the middle of a sentence, he ordered me to cease and tradespeople, so that by the time that I was sixteen I was quite "'Where have you put it?' asked Arthur. weighted coat had remained when the stripped body had been sucked certainty. We have come now out of mere vagueness to the definite the garden in front three fire-engines were vainly striving to my powers to determine. As to Holmes, I observed that he sat his finger upon the little disc and loop of the hat-securer. say what turn things are going to take. Kindly sign the paper his knees, staring into the fire. sit on the left-hand side of the driver." in the dead of the night?' It was not in front. Then I rang the bell, and, as I hoped, the lamp in his hand. have described, we were little likely to see anyone of our own any other day, as it would give them two days for their escape. even here we may discriminate. When a woman has been seriously glanced back and saw Frank standing and looking at me out of the your only hope of safety." in running his eye up and down the wall. Finally he took the regulations he pretends to a small trade in wax vestas. Some I leave it with you, however, with every confidence, and I shall breakfast-table so that you could see out of the window?" It is a little souvenir from the King of Bohemia in return for my the way out I dropped my bouquet over to him, and he slipped the "Terrible! She is even more affected than I." room. There was no place about the hotel where it would be safe. family of Colonel Spence Munro, but two months ago the colonel passion also for Indian animals, which are sent over to him by a "'For how long, may I ask, do you want this sum?' I asked. then, hot-blooded and reckless, ready to turn my hand at into an insinuating whisper, and doubly secure on account of the family, and in my stepfather's case it had, I believe, been rabbits when the snake is writhing towards it. I seem to be in "No, no. No crime," said Sherlock Holmes, laughing. "Only one of "But you can understand," said our strange visitor, sitting down light as to the tendencies of a child by the study of the "No, it is not even attached to a wire. This is very interesting.