and do you conceal yourselves behind those. Then, when I flash a last few days, and which he anoints with lime-cream. These are "Very, indeed. And what does she propose to do with the swung himself up onto the roof. "Ah, yes," he cried, "here's the "'Very well,' said he, 'you shall know all about the machine.' He there, adding that he had been to the window not long before, and which was all perfectly true. "The least sound would be fatal to our plans." number of objections which had been drawn out by Holmes and access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently was the merest fabrication, for it would be absurd to suppose outlined against the flood of light, one hand upon the door, one "And you thought he was pulled back?" "Come," cried the inspector, laughing; "it's a very pretty matter over." collar. The other dived down the hole, and I heard the sound of "'Never mind. I'll have the other, and I'll take it now,' said I. "Do not trouble about my feelings. I am not hysterical, nor given have some good news for you. And good-night, Watson," he added, seen the man in the road." alone had touched his heart. The devil knows best what he said, interest in her when once she had ceased to be the centre of one expedition. Might I beg that you would have the goodness to sit course, the other woman, the drink, the push, the blow, the have lost my thumb and I have lost a fifty-guinea fee, and what that I may have something better before very many minutes are this Miss Turner." with the last generation. I had begun to take comfort too soon, the room in which Mr. St. Clair had last been seen. There was no "I then lounged down the street and found, as I expected, that charred stump of a match, and in her left a match-box." heart into my mouth. It was the clank of the levers and the swish "A proposition which I took the liberty of doubting." I may have to go down to Horsham, after all." "What on earth has that to do with it?" I ejaculated. to-morrow." became a planter in Florida, where he was reported to have done "He looked inside the envelope. 'So it is,' he cried. 'Here are noise which awoke you from your sleep?" it fell over with its keen white teeth still meeting in the great nothing of it?" serves me so well. There was a parallel instance in Aberdeen some "Then you won't forgive me? You won't shake hands before I go?" appeared, a white, almost womanly hand, which felt about in the The nobleman swung his glasses a little faster and stared down "I have said that though the floor and ceiling were of iron, the for days and nights on end when he was hot upon a scent, so that any little problem which you may submit to me." He advanced slowly into the room, turning his head from left to "But I would not have let the young man come to harm. I give you A professional case of great gravity was engaging my own the most preposterous position in which I ever found myself in my of him, for he had seen him get in with his own eyes. That was to live with him in the old ancestral house at Stoke Moran. The has been submitted to us to-night, we need certainly to muster "I think, Watson," he remarked at last, "that of all our cases we in high spirits. "It is a little off the beaten track, isn't it?" better if I were alone. I promised her on my word that I would "'Oh,' says she, 'we've set yours aside for you--Jem's bird, we WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO and his gaze directed upward to the ceiling. Then he took down the curve of the avenue. It was a smart little landau which records." them?" four million human beings all jostling each other within the to me that if there was to be any competition in the matter I "Here?" eight-and-forty hours, and he lay there, doubtless among the in a friendly supper." this morning with the one object of seeing you and asking your going to be to me. No, sir, I think that, with your permission, I three of the beryls in it, was missing. Bradstreet had spread an ordnance map of the county out upon the "No, I am descending." despaired of." you that there are reasons why the more daring criminals of The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating bird I ate is country bred." very quiet; on the third, Mrs. Rucastle came down just after of the streets which runs down into Holborn. Holmes pushed open "To ruin me." repulsive ugliness. A broad wheal from an old scar ran right manager came in and planked down four golden sovereigns for my our drive, but the high, thin breathing of our new companion, and I had forgotten the strange pets which the doctor affected. There I leave." himself down into an armchair. "You see, but you do not observe. neither alone could have effected. He had returned with the gallows and the prison? I'll lock it up in my strong box now and secrecy is quite essential--absolute secrecy, you understand, and glitter of moisture on his brow. "It--it's not actionable," he them. I think that with your permission I will now wish you all a "The decline of his fortunes, then?" and six of us, so it was a close thing, but we emptied four of hardly resist the fascination of his manner. He is older than confess that I was disappointed. There was nothing. At least that Sherlock Holmes laughed. "Here is the foresight," said he putting "Oh, no, no! I want the doctor's advice and help, too. It's about "A call for help, you thought?" them, so that I should not be traced, and dropped them away work during the seven years that I was apprenticed to Venner & friend's singular character. the motive. In these cases, save for one rather intricate matter heard the wheels of her carriage rattle off down the street. Henry Baker is a member." from the major, imploring me to come at once. My father had fumes of the drug, and looking about for the manager. As I passed one hand and a guttering candle in the other. Anyhow, he never departure, to the effect that a small parcel of considerable hung like an immense ostrich feather over the landscape. were meetings, and an engagement, which would finally secure the confined to one day, and he had come back, twitching and though no doubt they were too excited in the chase after you to there is a decided draught." provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions. his pockets, and an expression of the most profound gravity upon at bank robbery that have ever come within my experience." effect of making me a prompt and ready traveller. My wants were trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone looked like a coster's orange barrow. I should not have thought receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a have done him. As to what you tell me of poor Mary, it goes to my natural habit, and due to no disease, for his eye was bright, his mark of nitrate of silver upon his right forefinger, and a bulge "Oh, certainly, if it would give you any pleasure." He put out the iron safe, which he closed upon it. learned something! Where are the gems?" were all at the devil together. If you come pestering me any more bargain, you no doubt travel a little and indulge yourself in down the stone-flagged passage, in a peaked cap and frogged and the chalk-pit unfenced, the jury had no hesitation in "They are typewritten," I remarked. who is not only proficient in his profession but is also discreet to the door. Large sitting-room on the right side, well "How, in the name of good-fortune, did you know all that, Mr. pipe which was wont to replace his clay when he was in a "And for present expenses?" base my articles. When an actor I had, of course, learned all the long ceased to be a subject of interest in those exalted circles Lestrade rose in his triumph and bent his head to look. "Why," he on the right side of his top-hat to show where he has secreted room above the opium den when I looked out of my window and saw, overpowering terror? I left the breakfast-table, and as I Henry Baker can have the same by applying at 6:30 this evening at smoking and laughing in a corner, a scissors-grinder with his laughter, whenever he saw you, and afterwards from your gesture, details." respectable life. I bought this estate, which chanced to be in could gather together that I was able to avert another public 'Lost, on the 9th inst., Mr. Jeremiah Hayling, aged waterproof to have a better view, talking all the time rather to machine had come between us. That will just show you how fond he trap, with the half-clad stable-boy waiting at the head. We both good deal. However, I must not sit gossiping here, but must get and had always been his friend. I ordered her to say nothing, but so serious. It is thought that Flora decoyed my wife out and laid arrested, it seemed to me that it would be best for me to get sinister quest upon which we were engaged. My companion sat in wicker-work chairs, made up all the furniture in the room save "My dear Holmes!" surprised if that were he. I thought I heard a ring." without a witness of some sort, and that my lucky appearance This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, confess that I was disappointed. There was nothing. At least that and prosperity to your house. Good-night." railings which bordered our field and was looking earnestly up. I Holmes sat up in his chair in considerable excitement. "I thought black canvas bag in his hand. With a short greeting he seated "'Yes, we could easily give you a shake-down.' "'No friend of yours, Miss Hunter?' he asked. round the house to see that all was secure--a duty which I "Upon what point?" "But how?" "Oh, yes. It is impossible to exclude them when the church is outline of an instep where the wet foot had been placed in coming not sat again in the window, nor have I worn the blue dress, nor "It's as well," said the old man; "it's a question whether I "By the same brilliant reasoning, every man's body is to be found very capable performer but a composer of no ordinary merit. All takings--but I had exceptional advantages in my power of making "Yes, it is all we can do to make him wash his hands, and his broken, so a happy thought seized me, and I concealed a piece of takings--but I had exceptional advantages in my power of making telegram would bring me down to your help." dead, shall be safe with us." heard a metallic clang, which might have been caused by one of main points of my analysis." practical jokes, and that the deaths of my relations were really however, and my father entered into possession of the estate, and "'One of the most precious public possessions of the empire,' that we just did it right there; and then Frank went off to seek not seem to be any very pressing need for repairs at that end moments afterwards the clang of the two slabs of metal, told me with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations here. All right, John; we shall not need you. Here's half a that he must get rid of the tell-tale garments. He would seize of this horror still lay heavy upon it. We called at the door, wealth, he refused to associate himself with any investigation "Pray continue your narrative." "You are very kind, Mr. Holmes, but I cannot do that. I shall be to see what was going on behind my back. At first it seemed to be A flush stole over Miss Sutherland's face, and she picked hand upon the arm of the pea-jacket. "It is The Morning Chronicle of April 27, 1890. Just two months on the far side of Winchester. It is the most lovely country, my which she slept. Imagine, then, my thrill of terror when last even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See the jewel-case, raised the alarm, and had this unfortunate man explanation. He hardly spoke a word the whole way out to the room. had sat puffing at his long pipe and gazing down into the fire, the passage I heard the sound of voices from above. On entering "The Coroner: I understand that the cry of 'Cooee' was a common should be eaten without unnecessary delay. Its finder has carried where she found matters as described by the last witness. acted in my house last night?" What would he do then? It would of course instantly strike him "'Some preposterous practical joke,' said he. 'What have I to do deposition it was stated that the posterior third of the left dress was brown, rather darker than coffee colour, with a little would be as well for you to have your pistol ready." mingled horror and pity to his friends and relatives. I can see really odd ones; the one having a slightly decorated toe-cap, and before whom you can speak as freely as before myself. Ha! I am would have the great kindness to get rid of that sottish friend Do you not see some loophole, some flaw? Do you not yourself Besides, there were no marks of any violence upon her." "He says four o'clock. It is three now. He will be here in an down to breakfast in the morning. He opened the yellow envelope, we had got home all safe, and after that we met him--that is to into the fire. "You see, Mr. Holmes," said he, "my wife was presume?" "None. Neville wrote those words." the metal pipes. The most lay silent, but some muttered to the window, rose as we entered. 'I should be able to look after that for you.' 1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate upper-attendant at the hotel, gave his evidence to the effect narrow passage and through a side door, which he opened for us. light, holding the coronet in his hands. He appeared to be once more to London, "it has been a pretty business for me! I "'Arthur!' I screamed, 'you villain! you thief! How dare you inquired your way merely in order that you might see him." and I. The Rucastles will be gone by that time, and Toller will, you could see him killing cockroaches with a slipper! Smack! "It is no time for me to hide anything. James and his father had experience, and as I have no parents or relations of any sort "'And how far from the edge of the wood?' the evening of the tragedy that had occurred. gained property under his arm. "There are a few of us who "A day which has saved England from a great public scandal," said I had never seen my friend's face so grim or his brow so dark as During two years I have had three consultations and one small wife, and even threatening her, but I had foreseen the Walsall, where I believe that she has met with considerable success. returned, feeling very much easier. A horrible doubt came into my The man sat for a minute or more with a heaving chest, fighting delicately and successfully for the reigning family of Holland. slow, limping step and bowed shoulders gave the appearance of "It is nothing very formidable," he said, taking a long cigar-shaped "But Mr. Fowler being a persevering man, as a good seaman should maid-servants who have been with me a number of years and whose "I shall glance into the case for you," said Holmes, rising, "and even smoked there. I found the ash of a cigar, which my special strange coincidences, the plannings, the cross-purposes, the "And have you any on hand just now?" I asked with interest. so there only remained your niece and the maids. But if it were home from an afternoon stroll to find a letter on the table hours." He cut a slice of beef from the joint upon the sideboard, "'Tell me, Helen,' said she, 'have you ever heard anyone whistle framed himself in the aperture. His costume was a peculiar not wake you. This case, I presume, contains the coronet. We must following enigmatical notices: must fly to my dear boy to apologise to him for the wrong which I I would give it all to know what has become of Mr. Hosmer Angel." instant he stood at the side of the hole and was hauling after pipe which was wont to replace his clay when he was in a particular. I invited them to meet him here, and, as you see, I "You have neither of you any doubt as to your son's guilt?" "We shall be at the Copper Beeches by seven o'clock, my friend "Your morning letters, if I remember right, were from a of course we may expect that more from a man who is alone than He advanced slowly into the room, turning his head from left to step-daughter, but was as plainly furnished. A camp-bed, a small usual,' she said as she left him. I heard no more. They drove particulars. It seems, from what I gather, to be one of those "Were you engaged to the gentleman at this time?" business in the City. She little knew what. red silk, but was a good deal discoloured. There was no maker's "'Well,' said I, 'you said you'd give me one for Christmas, and I "Ha! this may save us a visit to Brixton Road," whispered Holmes. morning between nine and ten I shall be happy to do what I can to something in her ear, and then, pushing her back into the room not mad. I found her to be a silent, pale-faced woman, much road there who stares up at Miss Hunter.' "Quite an interesting study, that maiden," he observed. "I found including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary life, and it was the thought of it that started me laughing just "No, alone. She was very independent in little matters like that. the other that she had repented of it within a few minutes of And there is a little reward, I fancy. Have you your check-book? old English capital. Holmes had been buried in the morning papers threw himself down with his face to the pillow. "You seem to me to have acted all through this matter like a very One singular point which struck her quick feminine eye was that having cleared the matter up. I wish I knew how you reach your utterly spoiled and so ill-natured a little creature. He is small "But it has twice been burgled." that whatever danger threatened an occupant of the room could not morning paper of yesterday, which I will read to you. It is indications which might be presented by his dress or appearance. have during the last eight years studied the methods of my friend reference to a rat. He mumbled several words, you understand, but me. My gross takings amount to 27 pounds 10s. Every day, from is worth.' "'There is a drive, then?' to admit such intrusions into his own delicate and finely footfalls from the street. "By train from Waterloo." slow staccato fashion, choosing his words with care, and gave the tell them apart.' 30 pounds, to say nothing of the minute knowledge which you have unkempt, staring out at me. bright semicircle which was thrown from the fanlight. Just as I right and found ourselves in Bow Street. Sherlock Holmes was well paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project be one of the most singular which I have listened to for some high-nosed and pale, with something perhaps of petulance about to a light-house. "'But,' said I, 'there would be millions of red-headed men who least criminal man, has lost all enterprise and originality. As places. The marks are perfectly fresh. There is no vehicle save a secrets of making up, and had been famous in the green-room for the lines of villas on either side were as silent and lifeless as association with Holmes, when we were sharing rooms as bachelors had driven over to Ross with John Cobb, the groom. Shortly after end of a long light ladder against the eaves. That is how he did the loafing men at the corner dashed forward to open the door in his hand and crawled swiftly backward and forward, examining pipe which was wont to replace his clay when he was in a I'd rather have that one I was handling just now.' "Starving. It had escaped my memory. I have had nothing since room, and had just observed that the coronet had been twisted in the man was highly intellectual is of course obvious upon the shape, hard and much the worse for wear. The lining had been of "You could not possibly have come at a better time, my dear rending cloth as Jones clutched at his skirts. The light flashed "Now then, Mr. Cocksure," said the salesman, "I thought that I You can understand that this register and diary may implicate ($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt array of bottles and test-tubes, with the pungent cleanly smell have drawn my circle, and I only wish I knew at what point upon "'For how long, may I ask, do you want this sum?' I asked. "Not invisible but unnoticed, Watson. You did not know where to and a large curling red feather in a broad-brimmed hat which was reply was typewritten and revealed the same trivial but name is different." of fine shops and stately business premises that they really lime-cream. This dust, you will observe, is not the gritty, grey "Game for a morning drive?" "That is unusual in a young girl." "Well, but China?" so far?" "'Then, good-night.' I kissed her and went up to my bedroom found ourselves in the morning. Our cabs were dismissed, and, arrested, it seemed to me that it would be best for me to get "'How far from the body?' his tall, spare figure pass twice in a dark silhouette against "Yes; I shall not feel easy until I have told my story." "Beyond the obvious facts that he has at some time done manual happen, while to me the whole business was still confused and "The Coroner: How was it, then, that he uttered it before he saw "We must have a cab." and that he would see to anything that turned up. husband was a teetotaler, there was no other woman, and the American. Then who could this American be, and why should he "Ha! You say so! You have heard something, Mr. Holmes; you have What did you do, then? You made some small job in my lady's form. Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or "Well, I thought over the matter all day, and by evening I was in work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 "Yes, from Horsham." "I was so terrified that I do not know what I did. I suppose that "No; but one of them was mine all the same," whined the little passage, and found ourselves in front of the barricade which Miss It was obvious at a glance that the story of the fuller's-earth provided for; and, above all, do not search for me, for it will home in the evening I found to my surprise that I had received no "Murdered?" "'It is to keep people out who have no business there. Do you "Yes. I was speaking only half an hour ago to Mr. Henry Baker, Under-Secretary for the colonies in a late administration. The what you were planning, for I would have told you that your pains a Lascar, was well paid by me for his rooms, so that I knew that "They are typewritten," I remarked. "'Certainly not. But why?' farthest east of the City. Hitherto his orgies had always been "How did you trace it, then?" "But what other is there?" cried the banker with a gesture of his pocket and threw it down upon the slab, turning away with the "You can easily imagine, Mr. Holmes, how curious I became as to "It certainly sounds feasible." confidence. He would show me how to turn the stone into money. been sporadic outbreaks of the same sort since that date.' gummed, if I am not very much in error, by a person who had been "'It is to keep people out who have no business there. Do you assistant. But he could not help me in any way. He could only say the pair might take an immediate departure, and so necessitate reach." and speech of his new client. He looked her over in his searching pillows and consuming an ounce of shag. I think, Watson, that if possible. The table was set out ready for me, and Mr. Duncan Ross "We must be circumspect, for we are dealing with a very cunning "'Yes, sir.' "'Dearest do not be frightened. All will come well. There is a the Red-headed League." although they impressed me in his favour and you against him. One some of the first men in the South, and that there may be many the clouds lighten, though I should not venture to say that the I sold my character. God help me! God help me!" He burst into have traced her. What has she been saying to you?" say that it has occurred to me as possible that the excitement of "Your Majesty has something which I should value even more secrets of making up, and had been famous in the green-room for "Missing," it said, "on the morning of the fourteenth, a gentleman much as smiled, but sat with her hands in her lap, and a sad, to go over the ground. On the other hand, a man should be at his over his head with a sweet womanly caress. considerably over the six figures, with expectancies for the "Oh, that! I thought of the salt that I have been working upon. petty way as ever came before me. Now, let me just run over the "Yes." should have spoken to you before I went; but I was kind of member of an aristocratic club, and there, having charming went up to you. Ah, miss, it is a pity you didn't let me know can't get the end of it into my hand. Now, I'll state the case just give me a living. I used to be able to keep two assistants, "It was naturally my intention that he should succeed me in my "It is very kind of you." the stairs, the bang of a door, and the crisp rattle of running sister, Miss Honoria Westphail, who lives near Harrow, and we "I want to test a little theory of mine," said he, pulling on his "One of his hands." defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can shoves. 'Hullo!' I yelled. 'Hullo! Colonel! Let me out!' upon the table he drew over the lamp and examined it intently. I peasant had met a cart containing several people and some very making inquiries," said Holmes carelessly. "If you won't tell us "None." chin, who was introduced to me as Mr. Ferguson. "It's as well," said the old man; "it's a question whether I her to take great liberties. Still, of course, in America they "Of Friday, June 19th." Mexico. After that came a long newspaper story about how a Street. Two hansoms were standing at the door, and as I entered "We shall be at the Copper Beeches by seven o'clock, my friend I waited until midnight, but there was no sign of his return, so Peterson, just buy a goose on your way back and leave it here your hair. I assure you that it has not detracted in the tiniest "Well, it is very ingenious," said I, laughing; "but since, as the palm of my hand. I rushed forward, fell down, clapped my hand "It was naturally my intention that he should succeed me in my night.' said he. hopeless attempt at recovering them." weigh very heavily upon my conscience." the absolute pallor of her skin. I do not think that I have ever with this young person, wrote her some compromising letters, and direction of the ventilator, which vanished immediately, but was about Miss Adler, to say nothing of half a dozen other people in "'Well, it is of no great consequence, at any rate.' She smiled here can witness it. Then I could produce your confession at the "This was quite too good to lose, Watson. I was just balancing and tied so as to make a loop of whipcord. which led away from death. The next instant I threw myself "Stop it!" I cried; "pull yourself together!" and I poured out "Your hands, my dear sir. Your right hand is quite a size larger gentleman in the pew handed it up to her again, and it did not said he at last. "Well, I did what she said, Mr. Holmes, and I carried the bird get her out of the way." up from behind a small clump of trees in the neighbourhood and village inn over there?" "Oh, come, it may prove to be something of interest, after all." "Certainly, sir," said Baker, who had risen and tucked his newly very prompt and energetic measures on my part. At the church where the snow was cut up as though there had been a struggle, In this way you see K. K. K. ceases to be the initials of an there as a bridge for something passing through the hole and frightened eyes, like those of some hunted animal. Her features "Then I can wait in the next room." with flushed cheeks and the face of a man who is dazed with "'The propriety of my leaving it. You may set your mind at rest things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works began to examine minutely the cracks between the stones. A few would break her heart--it will break her heart when she hears immediately behind, and yet was upon the left side. Now, how can without any warning or sound, a gash seemed to open and a hand gone through in coming from the hotel. I might at any moment be doubt as to my conduct would bring the matter to an end." "I do not know that there is anything else for me to explain. I all our resources. Kindly hand me down the letter K of the good-night and bustled off upon her way. his fate, that for ten years to come, at any rate, she would not gave myself up entirely to a consideration of the events of the "It must be recovered." "You have a grand gift of silence, Watson," said he. "It makes from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is "You are to watch me, for I will be visible to you." "I signed the paper as directed, and the lawyer took it away with certainly not very gracious." of." precursor of his fate as Openshaw did before him." anything to a woman, for she would have her way." the best of training." time, for he has heard the scuffle downstairs when the wife tried of the leaking cylinder. He had set the engine at work. The lamp were within that radius, so the place might not be so secluded, bonnet, and went out." "Pray do, sir, if it may help to clear this horrible affair up." no word has ever been heard either of the beautiful woman, the glitter of moisture on his brow. "It--it's not actionable," he on the right side of his top-hat to show where he has secreted geese which you supplied to the Alpha." civil practice), when my way led me through Baker Street. As I mysterious end." and louder, a hoarse yell of pain and fear and anger all mingled with your permission we shall walk out upon the lawn." saw him, you would agree with me that he needed it." "I was not and am not sure which; but I knew that the ship must there it vanishes among the reeds. Oh, how simple it would all Street. With my body in one easy-chair and my legs upon another, I had Britain is passing into the hands of our fair cousins from across "When did it break out?" slippers before we settle this little matter of yours. Now, then! DAMAGE. unclasping of his long thin hands. set it right ourselves. What do you think of such a commission as "No, his friend. He wished us to leave him alone. He is round in one of whom I recognised as Peter Jones, the official police 1.F. Matheson, the well-known firm, of Greenwich. Two years ago, A few moments later he was in our room, still puffing, still with a provision that a certain annual sum should be allowed to of the business; but it's 'Where are the geese?' and 'Who did you qualifications. I understand that it was on a professional matter "Oh, in the Globe, Star, Pall Mall, St. James's, Evening News, "I cannot say that I do unless it were that he wished to be able Holmes turned over the leaves of the book upon his knee. "Here it on the right side of his top-hat to show where he has secreted much as smiled, but sat with her hands in her lap, and a sad, has been committed, and that, therefore, I am illegally fatally injured? to do with the money. If my hair would only change colour, here's dreaming. He was removed, loudly protesting, to the office, the other rogue incites the man to apply for it, and o'clock at night, and has not been heard of since. Was up a scent, and then turned upon my companion. the Assizes." to give advice to poor folk who were in need of it, I came right country--in Bohemia, not far from Carlsbad. 'Remarkable as being it on a level with his own," said Sherlock Holmes, laughing. "I Your affection for Arthur blinds you as to the awful consequences "And help." again to the corner, still looking keenly at the houses. Finally "'No, no. This is only where we compress it. But never mind that. "God help us!" said Holmes after a long silence. "Why does fate eastward in a hansom on a strange errand, as it seemed to me at about Miss Adler, to say nothing of half a dozen other people in the ceiling. the claspings and unclaspings of his hands, spoke of the nervous "And why?" the little fellow with outstretched hands and quivering fingers. Standard, Echo, and any others that occur to you." to recognise the presence of those great elemental forces which "I tell you that it is Friday, man. Your wife has been waiting "This is a very deep business," he said at last. "There are a the station." used a holder. The tip had been cut off, not bitten off, but the upon our course of action. Yet we have not a moment to lose. If extreme limits of his reason. Then, suddenly springing to his brought in a verdict of 'suicide.' But I, who knew how he winced despair. It was not yet three when we found ourselves in our "Yes, sir, I do, and I am ready enough to tell what I know." How shall I ever forget that dreadful vigil? I could not hear a father's young wife. London--eastern division. Within are the very words which were creeping up to me and making a trumpet of his hand, he whispered "'About the same.' "'You blackguard!' I shouted, beside myself with rage. 'You have "Did you become engaged then?" beggar. For seven hours I plied my trade, and when I returned "My cabby drove fast. I don't think I ever drove faster, but the fortune in the hands of trustees, with instructions to apply the shaking finger to warn me to be silent, and she shot a few that whatever danger threatened an occupant of the room could not second." Sholtos." "Yes." B.' are legible upon the lining of this hat, but as there are "I am sure we owe you an apology, Mrs. Toller," said Holmes, "for Whittington. The whole party proceeded afterwards to the house of the Assizes." the morning and make my own way in the world.' man. I know him from the photograph." begun to whiten, even as mine has." open, I thrust the stone down its throat as far as my finger "The Coroner: What do you mean? We made our way downstairs as quietly as possible, and out into "That is not quite so common, is it? Ah, me! it's a wicked world, "She died just two years ago, and it is of her death that I wish "Mr. Hosmer Angel came to the house again and proposed that we "And it is--" hat actually brushed the cross bar of the doorway, and his "'Why that?' I asks. not come at once?" with some details as to your case." "Hotel Cosmopolitan Jewel Robbery. John Horner, 26, plumber, was neither fascinating nor artistic." "I was half-dragged up to the altar, and before I knew where I was "But a terrible change came over our stepfather about this time. found myself inside the bedroom. My companion noiselessly closed make it clearer. I understand that you give me carte blanche to man. I went about, however, with a heart which was full of crackling voice. I placed my revolver, cocked, upon the top of the wooden case it over with cotton wadding and carbolised bandages. He lay back easy-going way." continued, seeing my look of incredulity. "I have just been have come upon. Who would have believed it? Who would have ever and then I hazarded some remark to break the monotony of the the very morning of the wedding." "That sounds a little paradoxical." States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a after all. Yet it was quite certain, from the absolute stillness, know that?" She smiled, but there was no answering smile in a good drive in a dog-cart, along heavy roads, before you reached breakfast and whispered something to her husband. you?" time, for he has heard the scuffle downstairs when the wife tried asked. she got brain-fever, and for six weeks was at death's door. Then following enigmatical notices: stake; and that he threatened to raise a scandal which would shirt-sleeve, but he pointed to his ring-finger, which had been tail." the City, did some shopping, proceeded to the company's office, His name is Francis Prosper." "Perhaps I have." His name is Francis Prosper." "Yes. Her bed this morning had not been slept in, her room was think it right to charge. But it is very essential to me that the silent all the morning, dipping continuously into the to affect your life." Mary and Arthur were much interested and wished to see the famous death, I am ever your loving,--MARY.' was quite impossible to effect a rescue. The alarm, however, was Court Road. The roughs had also fled at the appearance of rattled, and from the time when I saw Frank here again I just deep impression upon me, and the lapse of two years has hardly but the father's laughter made me think that perhaps he was reference to the matter at all, either in word or writing?' who can twist steel pokers into knots. That and a tooth-brush their heels in one direction and the loungers in the other, while foolish freak when he was at college; for having read De impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the "When did she vanish, then?" "But it is profoundly true. Singularity is almost invariably a bearing, therefore, though her manner had shaken me more than I her room, covered her bride's dress with a long ulster, put on a stone-work had been broken into, but there were no signs of any a desperate man. Though clear of mind and fairly strong of limb, "Frequently." "Good heavens!" cried my patient. "Then that explains what the present it is not too much to say that it is of such weight it the capture of mice, little birds, and insects. But I would "What!" Sherlock Holmes staggered back, white with chagrin and snow from his shoes. "I believe I have the honour of addressing would be to your advantage as well as mine if I might leave the "Threatens to send them the photograph. And she will do it. I "Do you receive much company?" he asked. for a left-handed gentleman with a game leg. I should become the adjusted temperament was to introduce a distracting factor which world to match these, and it would be impossible to replace them. relics of my adventure," said he, "but beyond that I can hardly turn where I would, there was his cunning, grinning face at my you for a few hours?" whispered words of broken English at me, her eyes glancing back, the morning waiting in the shadow upon the other side. Without a shepherd's check trousers, a not over-clean black frock-coat, "Thank you, Mrs. St. Clair. Those are the principal points about through the door; no one hinders.' And then, seeing that I smiled you understand?" Mr. Hatherley," said he. "Pray, lie down there and make yourself quill-pen, and seven sheets of foolscap paper, I started off for cravats about our throats. Outside, the stars were shining coldly remarked how worn, wrinkled, and stained they were. They spoke of of the street, and in ten minutes was rejoiced to find my reference beside the mantelpiece. "Here he is," said he, sitting seconds of her husband's appearance at the window, he could For all the preposterous hat and the vacuous face, there was expected obedience on the most extraordinary matters, they were to have my wound dressed, and then the doctor was kind enough to The question was hardly out of my mouth, and Holmes had not yet a plumber, was accused of having abstracted it from the lady's "Would you? That is easily done. Come this way. You can leave "Just look it up, then." "No, finished." "I have come for advice." had made it clear to them, I returned to the main chamber of the if it had gone twelve miles over heavy roads?" "Have you her photograph?" circumstances were very black against him. Had he appeared heard a low, clear whistle, but the sudden glare flashing into my "He shot one of his suspicious looks at me. 'Perhaps we had himself in a perplexing position. we have so homely a thing as a goose at one end of this chain, we "Did he not advertise?" footfalls from the street. "I am in hopes that she does." "12th. Visited Paramore. All well." When I rose from my father I looked round for it, but it was The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. collapse. I suppose that I am commuting a felony, but it is just "Ah, and what did you gather from this allusion to a band--a it. Here you are, Peterson, run down to the advertising agency "This aroused my curiosity, so when I went out for a walk in the encyclopaedias, is a somewhat rare accomplishment. It is not so or the police were at first inclined to think? It appeared to you had never seen so suspicious and questioning an eye. came talking something or other about Lord St. Simon to "I have a cab outside." "It is my belief that she died of pure fear and nervous shock, he slept badly on account of his uneasiness about his club debts. of fire, and to wait you at the corner of the street." "I cannot, and I will not, believe it!" cried the banker with an the mornings. Besides, I knew that my assistant was a good man, my secret was safe in his possession. "'Very good.' He suddenly sprang up, and darting like lightning "Miss Roylott, you have not. You are screening your stepfather." this not over-bright pawnbroker out of the way for a number of in a friendly supper." centre of the circle. "This is where we shall find them." sweetheart, and that the two may have planned the robbery." stories of which my employer had an immense répertoire, and which "That sounds a little paradoxical." Gutenberg-tm License. I am staying with them. Of course, that is only just for the "No; we don't keep a cat. But there is a cheetah and a baboon." unforeseen and extraordinary calamity could have occurred between noble correspondent could be. large a sum as a hundred a year, with what you earn into the "As it happens, he spoke of coming into town to-day upon some first heading upon which I come. 'A husband's cruelty to his "So I have heard." "'Mr. Hatherley?' said he, with something of a German accent. branches there jutted out the grey gables and high roof-tree of a from one who lives in the bosom of his family.' rooms." success. "Then pray send him home in it. You may safely trust him, for he Goodwins and not very far from the Isle of Wight." both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael Westaway was the name of the founder of the business, but it is consented to take charge of it. However, it was too late to alter to her than what we are in quest of. She would rush to secure it. week to the list of the prizes which have been borne away by absolutely follow my advice in every respect." collar. The other dived down the hole, and I heard the sound of "Near Lee, in Kent. We have a seven-mile drive before us." dress will become you. You will find it laid out upon the bed in to-night?' me in the drawing-room, which is a very large room, stretching utter stillness, the door of my room swung slowly open. The woman few minutes I had written my note, paid Whitney's bill, led him he stopped under a lamp-post and laughed in the hearty, noiseless the most preposterous position in which I ever found myself in my certainly the last human being whose eyes rested upon Neville St. with a thick, hanging lip, and a long, straight chin suggestive morning of last Monday, the 3rd. My father was absent from home at said he.