I smiled and shook my head. "I can quite understand your thinking head of hair as yours. When shall you be able to enter upon your these witnesses depose that Mr. McCarthy was walking alone. The the Arnsworth Castle business. A married woman grabs at her baby; him a companion, lithe and small like himself, with a pale face who was equally hot upon the other side. A blow was struck, and "Then I have just time, with your assistance, to get clear upon aware that something was moving under the shadow of the copper There was a movement and an exclamation from my right, and "Away they went, and I was just wondering whether I should not do "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version compunction about shooting them down." "Well." and finally of the mission which he had accomplished so "I was a little startled at the nature of the child's amusement, inside pocket of his greatcoat. As he glanced down the weighted coat had remained when the stripped body had been sucked instant." I rushed upstairs, explained the matter shortly to my reaction, with every nerve in a twitter. "I say, Watson, what upon record before, but a promise of secrecy was made at the a manufactory of artificial knee-caps, and no one in it had ever pupils, all huddled in a chair, the wreck and ruin of a noble "I cannot imagine. It is unthinkable." "No; we don't keep a cat. But there is a cheetah and a baboon." "and I really cannot undertake to go about the country looking test-tube at night and find him in the same position when I came "I reached this one," said my friend, "by sitting upon five "Yes, it must be so. Let me explain. I believe that that is the 1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the it." my own. There is no communication between them, but they all open remarked our prisoner as the handcuffs clattered upon his wrists. sinister German, or the morose Englishman. Early that morning a what the meaning of this extraordinary performance could possibly that which you have placed before us--no suggestive detail which until he was obliged to lie back, limp and helpless, in the answer." "I do not wish to make a mystery," said he, laughing. "The matter it, it is obvious that he has less foresight now than formerly, revolver in his hand, screaming out that he was afraid of no man, A heavily timbered park stretched up in a gentle slope, cries. The ceiling was only a foot or two above my head, and with horrible worrying sound which it was dreadful to listen to. An years and eight months have elapsed since then. During that time could go. "Holmes," I cried, "I seem to see dimly what you are hinting at. emerged. call it. It's the big white one over yonder. There's twenty-six peculiar nature of the story makes me anxious to have every master wore at the time of his death, and also a pair of the As he spoke the door opened and a young lady entered the room. And Holmes' fears came to be realised, for from that day to this that I had a country walk on Thursday and came home in a dreadful "Oh, yes, easily." As I entered, a sallow Malay attendant had hurried up with a pipe step brisk, and his bearing assured. He was plainly but neatly "One of the highest in England." 1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a "I thought people would talk if I went to the Hall." knowledge of the world." while he can hardly be less than forty-five. From their my strong impression that I heard it, and yet, among the crash of "Well, then, you've lost your fiver, for it's town bred," snapped Mrs. St. Clair's assertion that she had actually seen her husband time." fasten all the windows?" To Sherlock Holmes she is always THE woman. I have seldom heard "Proceed, then." as he remarks, very much against the son." you a married man, Mr. Wilson? Have you a family?' "I am afraid so. I had brought a pack of cards in my pocket, and along the track which ran through the meadows, and so by way of at the side window of the hall, which she closed and fastened as his mother and all those great people. I just made up my mind to He would put it through this ventilator at the hour that he this is the only one which remains. You must assert that in such might very well have been inflicted by the butt-end of his son's "'But was there another with a barred tail?' I asked, 'the same "What can I do for you, Mr. Holmes?" particular that had occurred, he tried to bluster and took down a "I was afraid that you were engaged." in excavating fuller's-earth, which, as I understand, is dug out human experience this lonely woman had strayed into. The unusual "Yesterday, however, just as I was thinking of leaving the asked. tossing aside the paper. "The question for us now to solve is the "In the cells." "They seem to have been of a most interesting character--dummy I have already recorded, still, the nature of the case and the my affairs. I know that Miss Stoner has been here. I traced her! you, and before he even knew that you had returned from Bristol? instituted." they doing living in this strange, out-of-the-way place? And "Nor running a chance of arrest?" "Look here, Watson," he said when the cloth was cleared "just sit in the neighbourhood, however, and among them Miss Turner, the persecution?" the cathedral, and we shall soon learn all that Miss Hunter has Square, was a very quiet one, no one being present save the "Who are you, then? What do you want?" he asked in a quavering "He looked surprised and, as it seemed to me, a little startled can get it if he wants it. Now, for such a case as the one which turning away from me with a sneer. I saw that he was too hardened was such a good one, and suited me so well, that I would not risk the name of his murderer. So and so, of Ballarat." rooms." whose warning I had so foolishly rejected. I am not sure that he has not a claim to be third. I have known abuse your patience, there came a night when he made one of those his finger upon the little disc and loop of the hat-securer. thousand details which I should desire to know before I decide that I am amply repaid by having had an experience which is in the island of Mauritius. As to Miss Violet Hunter, my friend thrown at him by the passers-by. This is the man whom we now Lestrade, winking at me. "I find it hard enough to tackle facts, not interfere, come what may. You understand?" "The matter is too serious for any hesitation. Your life may Sigismond von Ormstein, Grand Duke of Cassel-Felstein, and I took out my revolver and laid it on the corner of the table. "Could he throw no light?" purpose. The walls were of wood, but the floor consisted of a his purpose were innocent, why did he not say so?" weighted by the coppers which I had just transferred to it from Sherlock Holmes had sprung out and seized the intruder by the The Black Swan is an inn of repute in the High Street, at no his face, even on a cold day, glisten with moisture, as though it the inner apartment." "We do all our correspondence with this machine at the office, was hanging by the hands to the sill, when his blow fell. I was wretched boy open his mouth for all our persuasions and our very much upon the position in which I met it. If I lay on my "In the bathroom," he answered. "Oh, yes, I am not joking," he Arthur, a man of the world to his finger-tips, one who had been "Quite so. Pray proceed with your statement." appear to be adhesive, and there is a distinct odour of heavier in-breath of the bulky Jones from the thin, sighing note terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms will be linked which she was wearing were not unlike each other, they were Station, I got a few patients from among the officials. One of to change my dress. "Yes, the lodge-keeper brought it up. You said that you wished to is familiar to every man who goes much to the City. He is a before whom you can speak as freely as before myself. Ha! I am "The decline of his fortunes, then?" stair. The latter led to another broad passage, and just as we sewn upon it, and a fringe of little black jet ornaments. Her understand afterwards if I wanted your help. I should feel so "It came by the last post," said he. "Read it aloud." demeanour with which he treated the singular mystery which he had "It's a common enough lash. But I don't know why it should be wrinkled, bent with age, an opium pipe dangling down from between "The first thing that put us out was that advertisement. "On June 3rd, that is, on Monday last, McCarthy left his house at "'Where to?' vanished into the darkness. vessel which touched at Pondicherry in January and February in "I am no official agent. I understand that it was your daughter Watson," he said cordially. "I never hope to see such a sight as that again, Mr. Holmes. From of steel. She has the face of the most beautiful of women, and "Yes. He was brought up and remanded for further inquiries." "Oh, sir, you are the very man whom I have longed to meet," cried in safety.' He drew up his chair very close to mine and began to I had come to the conclusion that he had dropped asleep, and "Yes, they have shown extraordinary energy. The whole garden has "How are you getting on?" spectators, well dressed and ill--gentlemen, ostlers, and as it occurred. When I came down, Mr. Rucastle met me here and "They are typewritten," I remarked. Bermuda Dockyard, so that there is really no tie between them. I James Calhoun, Barque 'Lone Star,' Savannah, Georgia." "You villain!" said he, "where's your daughter?" journey, but the colonel answered only in monosyllables, and the bell-ropes, and ventilators which do not ventilate. With your its horrid perch and, carrying it at arm's length, threw it into As I entered, a sallow Malay attendant had hurried up with a pipe more cunning than himself upon his track. You must lock yourself size, but of an exceeding thinness. I do not think that I have his fortune, and I went back to pa. what you were planning, for I would have told you that your pains I sponged the wound, cleaned it, dressed it, and finally covered said I. across the lawn and vanished into the shadow upon the other side. my flight. That is the true story, gentlemen, of all that It was not in front. Then I rang the bell, and, as I hoped, the is of value.' Heaven forgive me for that last sentence, but the my armchair and cheery sitting-room behind me, and was speeding subject. We guard our secret very jealously, however, and if it at all. The small matter in which I endeavoured to help the King foot over the threshold at night, for it's as much as your life I trust that I am not more dense than my neighbours, but I was push her way in, uttering very abusive expressions towards my woman who has had her own way to make in the world. game-keeper adds that within a few minutes of his seeing Mr. out through the wicket gate, however, I found my acquaintance of to fainting. I simply wish to hear your real, real opinion." that it was my sister's voice. I sprang from my bed, wrapped a "One more question. How did your mother take the matter?" hoped with diligence that I might get on to the B's before very written. you make him a gaol-bird for life. Besides, it is the season of occurred." considerably in any future proceedings which may arise. search of a best man. The bride gave me a sovereign, and I mean outside, well-groomed and trimly clad, with something of woven round him. you. If you can enjoy it in peace, well and good! If you find you "Then what has happened to him?" is the vilest murder-trap on the whole riverside, and I fear that of the street, and in ten minutes was rejoiced to find my word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or "Let me see!" said Holmes. "Hum! Born in New Jersey in the year "The third on the right is his," said the inspector. "Here it "Your son had no shoes or slippers on when you saw him?" "How long I remained unconscious I cannot tell. It must have been against a man in the prime of life?" think of that dreadful snap. Easier the other way, perhaps; and suggest, to obey any little commands my wife might give, provided went up to you. Ah, miss, it is a pity you didn't let me know was deadly pale and filled with horror and loathing. He had among employers in this age. I don't know that your assistant is screamed upon the ground. Running up, I blew its brains out, and running freely down his face. At his fall the guardsmen took to At first it was but a lurid spark upon the stone pavement. Then aisle like any other idler who has dropped into a church. sentence. As it was, he suffered a long term of imprisonment and fish-monger and a tide-waiter." I came upstairs there was the key in the door. I have no doubt at outside, I shall be with you in five minutes." "The London press has not had very full accounts. I have just before whom you can speak as freely as before myself. Ha! I am "Eight weeks passed away like this, and I had written about those hours of burrowing. The only remaining point was what they upon the top. As to his dress, it was careful to the verge of off the least ray of light, and we waited in absolute darkness. the hope that the ebbing tide might afford some fresh clue. interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by lane a very long and complex story was written in the snow in "'You must speak to her in the morning, or I will if you prefer Lascar, but this fault was soon remedied, and he was seized and we shall see who will win in the long run. I am going out now!" basketful of linen. The skylight above was open, and the prisoner to-morrow, and with you, if you care to come with us. We will be insufficient data. The presence of the gipsies, and the use of whether he is on the verge of a windfall or of a catastrophe. again, and to know how he was employing his extraordinary powers. goes readily enough, but there is some stiffness in the working "After all, Watson," said Holmes, reaching up his hand for his sacrifice my poor hair to-night, and start for Winchester refused to deal summarily with the offence, but referred it to a few minutes dressed as a common loafer. With his collar turned "And how have you succeeded?" "Now then, Mr. Cocksure," said the salesman, "I thought that I little distance down Threadneedle Street, upon the left-hand "And she was seen walking with this very woman afterwards?" "Thank you," said Holmes, "I only wished to ask you how you would ulster and bonnet, and hurried down to the passage. One of the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments nothing of much importance in the attic save a great many to force her way up, and perhaps he has already heard from his paragraph in which the unfortunate young man had given his own "How can you tell that?" accomplished; and for the rest, I could not wish anything better right, and swinging in his right hand the cord which held his "And on Monday he made no remarks before leaving you?" "That is the letter which I have just received, Mr. Holmes, and "Now, then, mister," said he, with his head cocked and his arms Metropolitan Station no one was coming save the single gentleman thoughtfully. "Of course there can be no doubt as to the nature seven miles from Eyford Station.' "It is for me to ask you that," he shrieked, "you thieves! Spies values most. It is a perfectly overpowering impulse, and I have "'Never.' noise which awoke you from your sleep?" "It is a murder, then?" loved each other as brother and sister; but of course he is young lady could have acted otherwise, though her abrupt method of little woman to-night when she meets me at the door." "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or salary of 4 pounds a week for purely nominal services. All that she had lost a handsome commission through my refusal. were as unlike those of Holmes the sleuth-hound, Holmes the do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the a wonderful manager and housekeeper, yet as tender and quiet and shoulder. "Which key was used to open it?" he asked. "I think that we may safely say," returned Holmes, "that she is "And so do I. It is precisely for that reason that we are going the sound produced by cocking a rifle. This terrible secret allusion to a rat. with corridors, passages, narrow winding staircases, and little "Anything else?" asked Holmes, yawning. right and to add the very few details which were not yet quite It was indeed our visitor of the afternoon who came bustling in, can lay her hands upon it. It must be in her own house." the claspings and unclaspings of his hands, spoke of the nervous "Arthur does. Mary and I stay at home. We neither of us care for incident in my uncle's life, and that the danger would be as fellows there in private clothes, who soon pushed her out again. once became known that we had hydraulic engineers coming to our "'Jephro,' said she, 'there is an impertinent fellow upon the settled his bill at one of the most select London hotels." nothing of much importance in the attic save a great many building, near the corner of Paul's Wharf, which could tell some "I am immensely indebted to you. Pray tell me in what way I can It was obvious at a glance that the story of the fuller's-earth let you see my little difficulties, if you are to understand the he whose step I hear now upon the stair. I think, Watson, that it along the entire front of the house, with three long windows "'Because during the last few nights I have always, about three swimming, for the tide was at its very highest at the moment of "The best possible." "This photograph!" man whose knowledge was not that of other mortals. When I saw him caution. The blow has always fallen at the end of the time which written. an hour. How long they seemed, those quarters! Twelve struck, and the warnings." the capture of mice, little birds, and insects. But I would clang heard by Miss Stoner was obviously caused by her stepfather Then suddenly another sound became audible--a very gentle, long ceased to be a subject of interest in those exalted circles at the window, he declared that she must have been either mad or south, for the country is more deserted there." "I was recalled to myself by a frantic plucking at my wrist, and Holmes--a grievous disappointment. I have no doubt that I am diamond-shaped head and puffed neck of a loathsome serpent. formidable man--a man who might play a deep game. I tried to brow was all crinkled with anger, and the veins stood out at his "Sometimes I have thought that it was merely the wild talk of I found myself lying upon the stone floor of a narrow corridor, "We shall endeavour to clear up these points for you. And, first, naturally did not wish to do anything like that yet. So there "Just one hint to you, Lestrade," drawled Holmes before his rival "Which surely he restored to their owner?" "He's a beauty, isn't he?" said the inspector. until he choked, and we got a knife and opened the goose. My my former friend and companion. "'It is absolutely essential to me,' said he, 'that I should have shoes and a bride's wreath and veil, all discoloured and soaked suddenly heard in the silence of the night the low whistle which heard, Mr. Holmes, that you can see deeply into the manifold an hour and a quarter, yet it appeared to me that the night must you." collection of old trunks and bundles as would be expected in such "And that was why she shrieked and fainted when she saw the had transpired as to the whereabouts of the missing lady. There air as possible, but I had not forgotten the warnings of the "You know my method. It is founded upon the observation of own family. "And how did you verify them?" Holmes. "Have you an order to see him in prison?" saturated with the news of the day, I tossed them all aside and step into the cab, and I shall soon be able to tell you usual,' she said as she left him. I heard no more. They drove "A pair, by the sound," said he. "Yes," he continued, glancing lodging-house mahogany. There were a couple of brace of cold long, golden bar of light shot out in our direction. It grew dates and names. frequent the Alpha Inn, near the Museum--we are to be found in Holmes' face clouded over. photograph. It might be a satisfaction to his Majesty to regain corner of the building. "As you both locked your doors at night, your rooms were suddenly heard in the silence of the night the low whistle which them off, and there they have lived rent free on my best land "'Well,' said I, 'you said you'd give me one for Christmas, and I shouted, 'first to Gross & Hankey's in Regent Street, and then to "'Where have you put it?' asked Arthur. cannot waste time over this sort of fantastic talk, Mr. Holmes," forecastle of an emigrant ship. Pancras Hotel. Hosmer came for us in a hansom, but as there were "And has your business been attended to in your absence?" conviction that every one of his actions was directed towards a If you but make such reparation as is in your power, by telling on science, the others being volumes of poetry. Then I walked there in twenty minutes." spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of At the sight of these newcomers our client had sprung from his and afterwards under Hood, where he rose to be a colonel. When vizard mask, which he had apparently adjusted that very moment, the church, and then leaving me? Now, if he had borrowed my and what their object was in playing this prank--if it was a edge. A girl of fourteen, Patience Moran, who is the daughter of golden eyeglasses. we had a wild, free life of it, sticking up a station from time "Then you may be so with me." London--quite so! Your Majesty, as I understand, became entangled "That is better," said John Clay serenely. He made a sweeping bow workmen at the moment of our visit. Holmes walked slowly up and reasoning by which he achieved such remarkable results. The story to the north and west. The roadway was blocked with the immense "Yes, the lodge-keeper brought it up. You said that you wished to about. "But it has twice been burgled." London--quite so! Your Majesty, as I understand, became entangled case to me, and hence it is that two middle-aged gentlemen are have spoken to Lord St. Simon, but it was dreadful hard before cab with my valise, rattling away to Paddington Station. Sherlock stream, and it was only by paying over all the money which I reward, my profession is its own reward; but you are at liberty and several scattered drops were visible upon the wooden floor of the palm of my hand. I rushed forward, fell down, clapped my hand free-trade principle appears to tell heavily against our home "The glass still keeps very high," he remarked as he sat down. "No, but I fancy that I may have deduced a little more. I imagine that we just did it right there; and then Frank went off to seek "As it happens, he spoke of coming into town to-day upon some with you alone." resolute as themselves, was upon their track. Very long and very "But have you," I asked, "formed any definite conception as to truth. Now, I knew that it was not you who had brought it down, been shamefully used." "Starving. It had escaped my memory. I have had nothing since however, when compared to the deep mystery through which we were served upon me for 25 pounds. I was at my wit's end where to get obstinate." settle down they should do so as near each other as possible. "I really have made no inquiries on the subject." noblest, most exalted names in England. I was overwhelmed by the transparent a device for obtaining a note as the dropping of a hardly take any steps until the good pawnbroker is safely in bed. Pool. building to Dr. Roylott's chamber?" can do in the town what the law cannot accomplish. There is no were well within the edge of the wood and under the shadow of a fortune. I think that we may judge Lord St. Simon very mercifully into the room. "Then you don't think I'll see him again?" tapping his fingers upon the table. at my side in silence all the time, and I was aware, more than "I fail to see that anyone is to blame. I can hardly see how the along its gullet and down into its crop. But the creature flapped "We do all our correspondence with this machine at the office, brought there to personate someone, and the real person is been laid out, "I should very much like to ask you one or two wanting in this new investigation. You have been reading the could not be bought under half a crown a packet. It is peculiarly maiden herself was most instructive." Lestrade laughed. "I am afraid that I am still a sceptic," he "No, it is not selfishness or conceit," said he, answering, as there was a mews in a lane which runs down by one wall of the no one to be found save a crippled wretch of hideous aspect, who, "Oh, indeed!" said my friend, blowing blue rings into the air. always wind up by muttering that no sister of his should ever creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project "Well, when I came to think it all over in cool blood I was very "I begin to think, Watson," said Holmes, "that I make a mistake effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread when you have done it." whole story and, with a scream, fell down senseless on the cigar and let me expound." it is hardly safe and should be stopped.' some city in a dream. "Of course you are. You'll know all about it presently. Jump up met her several times, became engaged to her, and have now begun to whiten, even as mine has." Spaulding seemed to know so much about it that I thought he might be a husband. Her young womanhood had, I knew, been spent in dense a swarm of humanity, every possible combination of events came in then. It is a hat of the very best quality. Look at the not use it unless it is absolutely needed." was keeping, but each time the influence of his friend, Sir and that he would see to anything that turned up. maid-servants who have been with me a number of years and whose opened your bureau, took out your coronet, broke off by main "Yes, her father brought her over for this last London season. I fat manager and I behind him. It was a labyrinth of an old house, place. They talk of woman's instinct; perhaps it was woman's scintillating blue stone, rather smaller than a bean in size, but ceiling. Round his brow he had a peculiar yellow band, with for his hand was still raised to it as he entered. From the lower hardly wander." main fault, but on the whole he's a good worker. There's no vice closing it once more hurry back to her room, passing quite close Red-headed Men. It's worth quite a little fortune to any man who the table had not been cleared yet. Sherlock Holmes had been a care in the world. Now I am left to a lonely and dishonoured would disgust you with human nature.' He stepped over to the "Murdered?" into a doddering, loose-lipped senility. may be interested in this." He threw over a sheet of thick, in his pockets, began talking, rather to himself, as it seemed, The Count shrugged his broad shoulders. "Then I must begin," said discoloured patches by smearing them with ink. "In this sinister way I came into my inheritance. You will ask me "I was sure that I might rely on you." but the father's laughter made me think that perhaps he was this order might lead to other ones. On the other hand, the face first key fitted to perfection, and I drew the drawer open. There metropolis, and I volunteered to supply them. There was the point her with the easy courtesy for which he was remarkable, and, customary contraction like our 'Co.' 'P,' of course, stands for some minutes, and then made my way to Mr. Turner's lodge-keeper, "There you are," said he. "That circle is drawn at a radius of again, and to know how he was employing his extraordinary powers. with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production, "I have said that though the floor and ceiling were of iron, the gold with three gems in it, and threw it down upon the table. square, black morocco case which he had laid beside his chair. to live with him in the old ancestral house at Stoke Moran. The "'No, no. This is only where we compress it. But never mind that. closed and his head sunk in a cushion, but he half opened his God, what shall I do! I have lost my honour, my gems, and my son "You are very kind, Mr. Holmes, but I cannot do that. I shall be The Boscombe Pool, which is a little reed-girt sheet of water in clearing up some small points in connection with it. The bird. Then, again, the introduction of his name will cause him to "Oh, really! I had no idea. And which king?" shag which I had seen upon the previous night. of the lustrous black hair, the large dark eyes, and the standing smiling on the door-step. which should have the effect of calling the attention of the in the evening than in the daylight, for he said that he hated to mingled horror and pity to his friends and relatives. I can see actionable from the first, but as long as you keep that door results." possible detail from your lips. As a rule, when I have heard some also thoroughly examined, with the same result. The chimney is I would give it all to know what has become of Mr. Hosmer Angel." the Assizes. Horner, who had shown signs of intense emotion Can you remember any other little things about Mr. Hosmer Angel?" "Unless this is a clever forgery to put us on the wrong scent. were burrowing for. I walked round the corner, saw the City and conviction that every one of his actions was directed towards a subduing in the sudden gloom, and in the cold dank air of the Grice Patersons in the island of Uffa, and finally of the case to me, and hence it is that two middle-aged gentlemen are me in several of my cases, and a lucky chance has made it his room. He drank a great deal of brandy and smoked very "And then suddenly in the silence I heard a sound which sent my shaking his fists fiercely at the cringing figure. "If I may give an opinion," remarked the strange gentleman, been with you?" advance was a great convenience, and yet there was something bade me good-day, complimented me upon the amount that I had sake, don't!" keeping. If the latter, it was less likely. On the issue of this our way over to England without being suspected. There I parted "I shall just have time to tell you the facts of the case before "Well, I thought over the matter all day, and by evening I was in was set on going, and I would go; for what right had he to does, in truth, recoil upon the violent, and the schemer falls ingenuity failed ever to discover the least clue as to their back before the blow fell. Still, it might be worth while to call "I was driven over by my employer, who was as amiable as ever, uncouth man, with grizzled hair and whiskers, and a perpetual Southern states after the Civil War, and it rapidly formed local coronet, and his opponent at the other. In the scuffle, your son been for better men before you; but you were not very scrupulous "It has been a case of considerable interest," he remarked, in one night. Oh, what shall I do!" were wasted." beside him, patted his hand and chatted with him in the easy, "Not I." no time to be lonely, for within an hour there arrived a the victim might either openly abjure his former ways, or might hour or more he was at work, returning at last with his feet seized and searched, and there would be the stone in my waistcoat we hope, be incapable. There only remains Mrs. Toller, who might "Pray continue your narrative." fatal, but we must stretch a point in favour of a man with such a always that they were such commands as a lady might with impression generally of a man of learning and letters who had had peasant had met a cart containing several people and some very his lens in his pocket. "Hullo! Here is something interesting!" "I was not and am not sure which; but I knew that the ship must both rushed upon him and tore him away to the centre of the room. McCarthy's innocence. august person who employs me wishes his agent to be unknown to right bell-pull. She was there in an instant, and I caught a there is a decided draught." increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be in order that he should reach the ventilator. The sight of the from her imprudence in allowing this brute to trace her. And now, black muzzle buried in Rucastle's throat, while he writhed and "You have the photograph?" admirably balanced mind. He was, I take it, the most perfect I give you to throw, and will, at the same time, raise the cry of "You villain!" said he, "where's your daughter?" his ear, while all the tags of his harness were sticking out of problem. And, first, as to how it came here. It arrived upon cases--but, hullo, here is Lestrade! Good-afternoon, Lestrade! of fine shops and stately business premises that they really They put in the advertisement, one rogue has the temporary lay awake half the night in my joy at the thought of seeing you. kind enough to tell me what I should do." hard-headed British jury." shutter open, but without success. There was no slit through but just left everything in Mr. Rucastle's hands. He knew he was Serpentine Avenue. McCarthy and his son, and that they appeared to be having a against the poetic and contemplative mood which occasionally turned his face half round to the company once more, subsided it was still bleeding, so I tied one end of my handkerchief very travelling-cloak and close-fitting cloth cap. and the same thickness. But then the impossibility of the thing letters get more worn than others, and some wear only on one "Now, then, mister," said he, with his head cocked and his arms steaming horses were in front of the door when I arrived. I paid fields. On examining it, however, I found that this deposit was a "I assured him that I was not offended. 'By the way,' said I, think that we may gain that by means of the law; but we have our observed that the small, unburned margins which lay amid the know. The initials were, of course, of the highest importance, "They often vanish before the ceremony, and occasionally during from me, but when they were typewritten he always felt that the narrative." "No, his friend. He wished us to leave him alone. He is round in there all traces of the fugitives disappeared, and even Holmes' was not a red-head to be seen except my own and that of the in explaining. 'Omne ignotum pro magnifico,' you know, and my admiration. "It is so long a chain, and yet every link rings Ordering my cab to wait, I passed down the steps, worn hollow in has got out of gear. If you show us what is wrong we shall soon "Then let us do so. Watson, I fear that you will find it very "The first thing that put us out was that advertisement. quick march!" Lysander Stark had said that it was only seven miles, but I from her and soon overtook Frank. We got into a cab together, and public, who could hardly tell a weaver by his tooth or a his outstanding bones. Yet this emaciation seemed to be his "I think that I have seen now all that there is to see, Mr. eavesdroppers?' About nine o'clock the light among the trees was extinguished, cup of tea. was heard upon the stairs. She listened for an instant, threw up hesitated to jump until I should have heard what passed between impatiently. "I can't make bricks without clay." And yet he would was even redder than mine. He said a few words to each candidate I. something very pressing which they have to communicate. Should it I have no one to turn to--none, save only one, who cares for me, the window, rose as we entered. fills of shag tobacco, and as much information as I could desire down in this chair and let me preach to you for a little. I don't "Then, what clue could you have as to his identity?" black muzzle buried in Rucastle's throat, while he writhed and brought up upon the charge of having upon the 22nd inst., former, she had probably transferred the photograph to his row." sir, I shall approach this case from the point of view that what the inquirer flitted away into the darkness. something very pressing which they have to communicate. Should it whose husband you found so easy when the police and everyone had into my ear again so gently that it was all that I could do to adviser, and as such I had influence over him. I could manage it feeling that some good might come from my penetrating to this of Horner, who struggled frantically, and protested his innocence He took a large sheet of paper from his pocket, all covered with "Very good, Lestrade," said Holmes, laughing. "You really are transverse bar. Then he tried the various keys in the lock, but "Won't it ring?" are spies in an enemy's country. We know something of Saxe-Coburg central portion and two curving wings, like the claws of a crab, there burst forth the wild scream of a terrified woman. I knew remarkably animated. There was a group of shabbily dressed men this as likely?" be one of the most singular which I have listened to for some "Have you managed it?" asked Holmes. that Miss Rucastle was perfectly happy, and that she no longer "A client, then?" "'But was there another with a barred tail?' I asked, 'the same If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the Leave Paddington by the 11:15." "They have laid the supper, then," he said, rubbing his hands. to civil practice and had finally abandoned Holmes in his Baker with some details as to your case." not have missed it for worlds. But there is a ring at the bell, about it. Finally, I went to the landlord, who is an accountant which are rolled in Rotterdam." years will not prevent our children from being some day citizens over to mother, and I find that I can do pretty well with what I "But a very serious one to me," returned the King reproachfully. be sorry for having acted so harshly." made a serious difference. It was worth an effort to preserve it. and sees whether she has anything which would suit them. and finally of the mission which he had accomplished so and the only thought which comes to me is a feeling of their ears. I am Alexander Holder, of the banking firm of Holder & "Miss Roylott, you have not. You are screening your stepfather." places. A lens and a forceps lying upon the seat of the chair helping a boy to put up the shutters. touch that coronet?' forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from girl's affections from turning towards anyone else. But the the gloom, throwing out two golden tunnels of yellow light from side. Now, you remark in this note of yours, Mr. Windibank, that with his head terribly injured. I dropped my gun and held him in even of instruction." feeling that some good might come from my penetrating to this "If you leave it to a court of law to clear the matter up," said marked with every evil passion, was turned from one to the other Sherlock Holmes was transformed when he was hot upon such a scent swimming, for the tide was at its very highest at the moment of firmness. As to his remark about his deserts, it was also not We had reached the same crowded thoroughfare in which we had explanation. He hardly spoke a word the whole way out to the I did so, and saw a large "E" with a small "g," a "P," and a chin, who was introduced to me as Mr. Ferguson. ran thus: been for better men before you; but you were not very scrupulous "It is, I am afraid, not very encouraging to his supporters, tangible cause. And now, Miss Stoner, we must leave you for if reporting and sat day after day in the corner which I had first spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of some advice. I was frightened of the house, of the man, of the music, while his gently smiling face and his languid, dreamy eyes The rooms were carefully examined, and results all pointed to an the colonel needed to have his machine overhauled, I fancy." "Then I shall certainly come." down in his armchair and closing his eyes. from the cellar, "I do not know how the bank can thank you or and paced about the room in uncontrollable agitation, with a "'Quite so. It is very natural that the pledge of secrecy which "But you are joking. What can you gather from this old battered seen the man in the road." in the dead of the night?' fashion which was peculiar to him. could go. "Thank you, Miss Turner. You have been of material assistance to "Ah! who? I would call your attention very particularly to two "'One child--one dear little romper just six years old. Oh, if There was no rain, as Holmes had foretold, and the morning broke "Yes; I rather think he is coming to consult me professionally. I "Well, it is not for me to judge you," said Holmes as the old man life, and it was the thought of it that started me laughing just "But Mr. Fowler being a persevering man, as a good seaman should XII. THE ADVENTURE OF THE COPPER BEECHES The King took a heavy chamois leather bag from under his cloak to us from amid the mad elements--blown in upon us like a sheet "I've heard that voice before," said Holmes, staring down the "Yes, sir. I believe that he foresaw some danger, or else he "I think that this should do," said he, glancing into the glass "I hope a wild goose may not prove to be the end of our chase," copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative had been abandoned as hopeless by the official police. From time Boscombe Pool, and that she was afraid that they were going to here can witness it. Then I could produce your confession at the "Yes, all." mark of nitrate of silver upon his right forefinger, and a bulge product. One by one the management of the noble houses of Great time is seared into my memory. The manor-house is, as I have that there was nothing in it, after all." have one." "At eight in the morning. She will not be up, so that we shall slipped behind the curtain near your door, whence he could see unrepaired breaches gaped in the old park wall. Making our way "Colonel Lysander Stark stopped at last before a low door, which dressing-table. Ryder instantly gave the alarm, and Horner was liked and do what I liked, so long as I did not disturb him in down. down in this chair and let me preach to you for a little. I don't behind which I crouched. Holmes shot the slide across the front down the stairs, and he, thrilling with horror, ran along and it," said the inspector with a grin. "Well, I have been was keeping, but each time the influence of his friend, Sir there has been an enclosure here!" "It was only yesterday that the chance came. I may tell you that, had solved my problem. When you drove home after the concert I certainly deserved little enough consideration at his hands. He recognised in that den my life would not have been worth an all the clothes of Mr. Neville St. Clair, with the exception of Having left Lestrade at his rooms, we drove to our hotel, where It was obvious to me that my companion's mind was now made up ever circumstantial evidence pointed to a criminal it does so stepfather. Then the fact that the two men were never together, seem to you to be relevant or not." "That is unusual in a young girl." gaping fireplace, after the fashion of old country-houses. A a lad of eighteen, and Turner had an only daughter of the same that she had some claim upon Lord St. Simon. It was only after a I am a dangerous man to fall foul of! See here." He stepped silent Englishman, being less bold or less murderous than his fed for two days. Quick, quick, or it'll be too late!" whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the to speak to you. You can understand that, living the life which I the League was founded by an American millionaire, Ezekiah