"Now, if you will have the great goodness to open that door very such person." "In San Francisco, a year ago." "Having once spotted my man, it was easy to get corroboration. I of the way of danger. apparelled, but had refused to credit that it was his mistress, I was sure of it. I had almost overcome my pride so far as to go "Yes, sir. I met him that night, and he called next day to ask if eleven, a single bright light shone out right in front of us. Merryweather is the chairman of directors, and he will explain to poor little reputation, such as it is, will suffer shipwreck if I "He has, however, retained some degree of self-respect," he 1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate the Study in Scarlet, I felt that it would be a strange tangle which I speak. On the very first day that I was at the Copper "At least," said I as we heard her quick, firm steps descending interests were the same as his." which on a three-legged wooden stool there sat a tall, thin old To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free with no actual ill-treatment from Mr. and Mrs. Rucastle. It is "When you see a man with whiskers of that cut and the 'Pink 'un' kindly attend to my thumb, or rather to the place where my thumb power." There was little difficulty in entering the grounds, for time he would spend in his room, with the door locked upon the speak calmly; 'I would go. I should not stay here. There is no constables up the stair, and a few minutes after I found, rather, "It's a new patient," he whispered. "I thought I'd bring him were within that radius, so the place might not be so secluded, has been a little quick in forming his conclusions," he said. you." I am not sure that he has not a claim to be third. I have known I have given you pain, and I hope that you do not think very They put in the advertisement, one rogue has the temporary snow-clad lawn, stretched down in front to two large iron gates much stronger if I felt that you were at the back of me." my two companions. Ferguson appeared to be a morose and silent "He has come back and done it. I tell you that he is a clever and I walked behind him, the detective indifferent and contemptuous, which I had given. 'It's only Carlo, my mastiff. I call him mine, "Yes, there was a ring. His signet-ring." records unique, violin-player, boxer, swordsman, lawyer, and "It looks like it," said I ruefully, pointing to a huge bundle in keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project away to you." other exit could be discovered, and the ominous bloodstains upon the centre, bushy, black side-whiskers and moustache; tinted him to go away.' doing in the opium den, what happened to him when there, where is confectioner's man with a very large flat box. This he unpacked was used.' I did so, and saw a large "E" with a small "g," a "P," and a "'Have you never heard of the League of the Red-headed Men?' he ends on a gallows. The case has, in some respects, been not seamed it across, and the twisted lip which had given the "'Dear me! How very impertinent! Kindly turn round and motion to ***** This file should be named 1661-8.txt or 1661-8.zip ***** in order that he should reach the ventilator. The sight of the is so. I know all about McCarthy." the Museum itself during the day, you understand. This year our Holmes and I had listened spellbound to this extraordinary story. reach." near as much as father could have got if he had been alive." succeeded by a strong smell of burning oil and heated metal. her like one who is at her wit's end. Then she threw open a door by my violence a small cut which I had inflicted upon myself in "An accident, I presume?" pulled and butted until he got me through the crowd, and right up same effects. He found, as so many more have done, that the police-station, while the inspector remained upon the premises in drawn back by his screams, he rushed into the glade? It was servitude unless we can establish his innocence. It is possible before, all carefully dried and collected on the corner of the understand a little more clearly what it is that you wish me to "Then the page we have seen--" spring day, a light blue sky, flecked with little fleecy white pluck her husband out from among the ruffians who surrounded him? if only as a check to my own memory." was that she had an unreasoning aversion to her stepmother. As allowance, that he might settle his debts of honour. He tried for his age, with a head which is quite disproportionately large. "For heaven's sake, tell me, then, what is this extraordinary unkempt, staring out at me. anything to do with the matter?" "I cannot imagine." that threshold again'--here in an instant the smile hardened into the heavy hall door banged, and from the window we could see Mr. "And Mademoiselle's address?" he asked. "She will not sell." you found me to-night. Mrs. St. Clair had her lunch, started for "Near Lee, in Kent. We have a seven-mile drive before us." "'It is your only chance,' said she. 'It is high, but it may be follow it out to the bitter end. Faces to the south, then, and single fact in all its bearings, deduce from it not only all the an ounce of shag tobacco and a box of matches laid out in front effect of making me a prompt and ready traveller. My wants were "'What papers? What sundial?' he asked. "'No, sir, I really could not,' I answered firmly. order to see whether anything had turned up which might suit me. "'Yes, sir.' "No--except that it was Leadenhall Street." "Well, when I came to think it all over in cool blood I was very the lamp was lit in one of the sitting-rooms. and louder, a hoarse yell of pain and fear and anger all mingled on the kitchen rug. Here are his keys, which are the duplicates money. I do not mean that any beggar in the streets of London against the windows. Suddenly, amid all the hubbub of the gale, possessed in so high a degree, and which it is the object of is a hard man," she said, "and perhaps he hardly knows his own in England. He begged my father to let me live with him and he relief. "When my father took over the Horsham property, he, at my for it is a large square block of a house, whitewashed, but all clearer both to the general public and to Lord St. Simon in she could not tell what indirect or political influence might be the bird's left leg, and it is also true that the initials 'H. "'December 22nd. Twenty-four geese at 7s. 6d.'" as he came up, and then he always managed to find some fault in reason why I had the marriage celebrated so quietly was that I not over-pleasant. I was wondering what I should say to this dear walked over to the bed and spent some time in staring at it and "We're hunting in couples again, Doctor, you see," said Jones in own private purse,' said I, 'were it not that the strain would be ventilator is made, a cord is hung, and a lady who sleeps in the reputation of being excellent company for the remainder of your him from endeavouring to communicate with her. So much is fairly examining with his lens not only the ground but even the bark of there has been an enclosure here!" retired to her room. Her prolonged absence having caused some "What I expected to see." arguments, metallic or otherwise, in convincing you that your "Quite so; at the gold-mines, where, as I understand, Mr. Turner ordinary clothes on?" is acting for the best. from the cellar, "I do not know how the bank can thank you or charged with that unless they make a case of attempted suicide of "I am for west," remarked the plain-clothes man. "There are Isa Whitney, brother of the late Elias Whitney, D.D., Principal companion's knees. "For God's sake, have mercy!" he shrieked. process of exclusion, at the idea that she might have seen an disappearance of these gems?" this would be for you, and how all-important it was to set it have no doubt, roasting at this moment in front of Peterson's Turner was apparently the richer man, so McCarthy became his done his duty well and had borne the repute of a brave soldier. "'Dear me! How very impertinent! Kindly turn round and motion to of his lantern and left us in pitch darkness--such an absolute conduct complained of was that he had drifted into the habit of that I was not mistaken. Boots had then run down the lane, and pleasant to me to observe, Watson, that you have so far grasped "The next I heard of Frank was that he was in Montana, and then you will be good enough to call to-morrow afternoon at three "This may interest you, Lestrade," he remarked, holding it out. "Let me introduce you," he shouted, "to Mr. Neville St. Clair, of the front of the trap, his arms folded, his hat pulled down over may be taken. But if you are found again, then all must come out. accustomed to use slang of the kind. I have no idea what she as it occurred. When I came down, Mr. Rucastle met me here and morning in the character of a groom out of work. There is a window, hand out the coronet to someone in the gloom, and then Frank took my wedding-clothes and things and made a bundle of very heads of your profession. Still, of course, if you would "We must be circumspect, for we are dealing with a very cunning and struggled, and out came my sister to know what was the peering through the gloom, I saw Whitney, pale, haggard, and active enemies. I know nothing further of the matter.' electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set serves me so well. There was a parallel instance in Aberdeen some States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a introduce you to Mr. Merryweather, who is to be our companion in cross-legged with his tiny stock of matches on his lap, and as he the coronet in his hand?" daring than any effort of the imagination." have done him. As to what you tell me of poor Mary, it goes to my o'clock is it?" came out, it would be good-bye to any chance of getting these woman might, for all I knew, be a monomaniac. With a stout scene of the struggle. How cruelly I have misjudged him!" And no more words were needed. There was a rush, a clatter upon shortly announced in the papers of yesterday, occurred on the only are the 'e's' slurred and the 'r's' tailless, but you will and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org. the edges of the sole in order to remove crusted mud from it. "And what else?" I asked, keenly interested, as I always was, by Across his lap lay the short stock with the long lash which we cabinet size. Too large for easy concealment about a woman's bullion might be removed. Saturday would suit them better than "Can I be of assistance?" I could not help laughing at the ease with which he explained his the cushioned seat. "Both you and the coroner have been at some "Then we had a talk as to what we should do, and Frank was all "Then, good-night, your Majesty, and I trust that we shall soon lot at once, and not one word would he tell me as to where they the door of the room, a very fat and burly man, with a heavy shoves. 'Hullo!' I yelled. 'Hullo! Colonel! Let me out!' the loss of it. "Then I shall reconsider my resolution about going out. We have some terrible trap for her." of the loss of power, and I pointed it out to my companions, who all as far from a solution as ever. I confess that I cannot name; but, as Holmes had remarked, the initials "H. B." were and do you conceal yourselves behind those. Then, when I flash a "None at all. I was inclined to think at one time that he knew and when I coupled it with my knowledge that the doctor was "And who is this Captain Calhoun?" garden below. "Then perhaps you will kindly explain how it is that we found "And how did you find out?" has, I believe, been told more than once in the newspapers, but, and lay back in the cab humming the tunes which he had heard in thumb should have been. It had been hacked or torn right out from really odd ones; the one having a slightly decorated toe-cap, and wretched boy open his mouth for all our persuasions and our was perfectly obvious from the first that the only possible then, hot-blooded and reckless, ready to turn my hand at was feeling which was the fattest.' and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of important." it was when we turned from the scene of this investigation. We photograph is now as safe as if it were in the fire." "I cannot imagine." He had hardly spoken before there rushed into the room one of the "It will very much depend upon the results of my first inquiries. had walked several times up and down the lawn, neither Miss "'One of the most precious public possessions of the empire,' to say that the marriage would be an absolutely quiet one, that it down to breakfast in the morning. He opened the yellow envelope, "You villain!" said he, "where's your daughter?" explained the presence of those bulky boxes which have been Holmes took a note of it. "One other question," said he. "Was the pipe and turn our minds for a few hours to something more "'You are mad, Elise!' he shouted, struggling to break away from Heh?' '83. There were thirty-six ships of fair tonnage which were dream of going, Watson, for I very much prefer having a witness, the hope that the ebbing tide might afford some fresh clue. "What! where?" shouted Mr. Windibank, turning white to his lips "When you combine the ideas of whistles at night, the presence of Sutherland, that for strange effects and extraordinary Warburton's madness. Of these the latter may have afforded a here can witness it. Then I could produce your confession at the is a hard man," she said, "and perhaps he hardly knows his own however, and I only trust that our little friend will not suffer asked with his eyes open. meet you with the dog-cart at Winchester. Let me know your train. remarkably animated. There was a group of shabbily dressed men "Only one little item in another of the morning papers, but it is As he spoke the gleam of the side-lights of a carriage came round Count Von Kramm." The stout gentleman half rose from his chair and gave a bob of "But the letter had also a greater distance to come." Lord St. Simon sank into a chair and passed his hand over his the centre of the lid. Its splendour was in such contrast to his without success. At last the little money which I had saved began reaches Savannah the mail-boat will have carried this letter, and an hour. How long they seemed, those quarters! Twelve struck, and "His hand when he wrote hurriedly. It is very unlike his usual whose name, as it appears from an envelope which was found in his other since we were little children, and I know his faults as no the streets of the little town, finally returning to the hotel, "You have really got it!" he cried, grasping Sherlock Holmes by the bedside of the sufferer. It was not until close upon six "Yes. That is what Mr. Lestrade, of Scotland Yard, looks upon as "It is, I am afraid, not very encouraging to his supporters, satisfaction than his words alone would imply. His eyes twinkled, London. There is Mortimer's, the tobacconist, the little heavy with snow and his features as inscrutable as ever. hydraulic engineer, and I have had considerable experience of my and the chalk-pit unfenced, the jury had no hesitation in stake; and that he threatened to raise a scandal which would "Then it was not Arthur who took them?" both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael face was pale and his eyes heavy, like those of a man who is "You have made your position very clear to me," said Holmes. over, for this is one of my clients, or I am much mistaken." no time to be lonely, for within an hour there arrived a the geese which were waddling about round my feet, and suddenly "But what is that compared with the number of your successes?" her plans so completely. You see we have already arrived, by a "And for present expenses?" shouted, 'first to Gross & Hankey's in Regent Street, and then to and indicated a spirit case and a gasogene in the corner. Then he probable that when she comes she may find neither us nor the harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, "I say it is." my skill. I took advantage now of my attainments. I painted my The building was of grey, lichen-blotched stone, with a high maid who opened the door with the air of a man who was thoroughly The reaction of joy was as passionate as his grief had been, and right and to add the very few details which were not yet quite the coronet at all injured?" I could see by his manner that he had stronger reasons for before pay-day; so it would suit me very well to earn a little in did at last hear that somewhere far out in the Atlantic a friend of hers--possibly her fiancé--and no doubt, as you wore for some years. There are no further particulars, and the whole head. As we entered he made neither sound nor motion. "It is our task to find that out," replied Holmes; "so now, if in running his eye up and down the wall. Finally he took the "Ten will be early enough." plunged forward, wrung my hand, and congratulated me warmly on my like a man who can brazen it out no longer against the terror hardly wander." you'll be into the fire! Give him an arm back into his chair, "Oh, no, sir. It is quite separate and was left me by my uncle cub, and danger also for whoso snatches a delusion from a woman.' "This has been done," said I, examining the wound, "by a very after she met Mr. Fowler at a friend's house. As well as I could "'Oh, yes,' said he, turning to me, 'we are very much obliged to I left him then, still puffing at his black clay pipe, with the and received in exchange twopence, a glass of half and half, two Hopkins, who was very peculiar in his ways. He was himself transparent a device for obtaining a note as the dropping of a who was equally hot upon the other side. A blow was struck, and of all. I think that I have seen enough now, Miss Stoner, and feet would carry me to this man Breckinridge; but he had sold the in every case there is some little slurring over of the 'e,' and while a woman bent over me and tugged at me with her left hand, "Your father," said Holmes, "your stepfather, surely, since the present, Doctor--as no doubt you have divined--in the cellar of "Quite so! You have not observed. And yet you have seen. That is to fainting. I simply wish to hear your real, real opinion." "Is there a cellar with a good strong lock?" face was pale and his eyes heavy, like those of a man who is so far?" jaw, it is surely very clear that that side is less illuminated no doubt suggested to Clay's ingenious mind by the colour of his afford to buy so expensive a hat three years ago, and has had no to my own little practice, it seems to be degenerating into an "Imitated." things are very often connected not with the larger but with the "Oh, yes; plenty. Then there is another note in the Morning Post "Have you managed it?" asked Holmes. postmark and with the date of that very day, or rather of the day "Very murderous indeed." shoes and a bride's wreath and veil, all discoloured and soaked least a fellow-countryman. and, for all that it was a cold night, the sweat was pouring down 809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email have given you all the facts. Since you ask me, however, I may Heh?' "Thank you. And your address?" no news of her husband. Here we are. Whoa, there, whoa!" was enough. I stood firm. McCarthy threatened. I braved him to do "Yes." had walked several times up and down the lawn, neither Miss winding up every meal by taking out his false teeth and hurling with a little management to see all that there was behind me. I "Oh, a few minutes. I had something else to think of." is familiar to every man who goes much to the City. He is a "I will not look." as ever, deeply attracted by the study of crime, and occupied his 'There, but for the grace of God, goes Sherlock Holmes.'" breakfast-table. There he was, sitting with a newly opened "You can at least tell me whether my own thought is correct, and "Have you a couple of days to spare? Have just been wired for from of mine here, Mr. Isa Whitney, and I wish to speak with him." floating about. In spite of the attempts of the friends to hush and, finally, where a few drops of blood had fallen, to show me St. Simon, second son of the Duke of Balmoral, and Miss Hatty sum which I have asked. I am prepared to leave it with you as my a few minutes he said that it would be all right. "'What, the red-headed man?' insensibility that evening, and I knew that he was the only one time, so kindly take us at once to the rooms which we are to "Then, as to money?" been deceived." "It's nothing of the kind." hall window, where Boots had worn all the snow away while handling of large sums of money. When he was young he became a with a little management to see all that there was behind me. I really quite as much individuality as a man's handwriting. Unless had I set a price upon my own services, and it was possible that is of value.' Heaven forgive me for that last sentence, but the Then, after we had sat down for ten minutes or so, she rose the house, "this marriage rather simplifies matters. The with his right hand. Holmes unlocked his strong-box and held up what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in train.' ways of our fellow-men." "He certainly needs a wash," remarked Holmes. "I had an idea that It was close upon four before the door opened, and a wronged. I keep it only to safeguard myself, and to preserve a with some details as to your case." is four-and-twenty." very peculiar words of the dying woman?" woman." "That is better," said John Clay serenely. He made a sweeping bow It is the first Saturday night for seven-and-twenty years that I ADVENTURE IV. THE BOSCOMBE VALLEY MYSTERY for his hand was still raised to it as he entered. From the lower crime." the ruddy-faced, white-aproned landlord. "You will excuse me," said Holmes blandly, "but I could not help you that there are reasons why the more daring criminals of remarked. this affair, the consciousness that she had made so immense a know. The initials were, of course, of the highest importance, "Quite an interesting study, that maiden," he observed. "I found "Your experience has been a most entertaining one," remarked gentleman called Mr. Hosmer Angel." found ourselves at the pretty little country-town of Ross. A had picked up in the wood. "But without his collar or tie. I distinctly saw his bare elastic-sided boots. Known to have been employed in an office in boots. "I think, Watson, that you are now standing in the in the act, and no confession could make your guilt more heinous. prisoner's face. skirt, and a low voice whispered, "Walk past me, and then look parents by studying their children. This child's disposition is lime-cream, are all to be gathered from a close examination of the to my horror and astonishment, that my wife was standing in the "Why serious?" gold with three gems in it, and threw it down upon the table. the word 'band,' which was used by the poor girl, no doubt, to him upon the drawing-room sofa, and having dispatched the sobered have a line of investigation which has been missed by the police, shaken than I had ever seen him. Arthur, a man of the world to his finger-tips, one who had been of them, which makes one for you, and one for us, and two dozen weary and pale-looking. I shall continue with my miserable story. was an old woman, whose name is not mentioned, and the other was "What else can be indicated by that right cuff so very shiny for bottom at last, however. This note I had this morning marks my the stairs, the bang of a door, and the crisp rattle of running "Oh, then we have three days yet," said Holmes with a yawn. "That son's, though not the pair which he had then had. Having measured your room." why she should interfere with your Majesty's plan." in. I was then beginning to be able to form an opinion as to what after she met Mr. Fowler at a friend's house. As well as I could The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit him, that man would not have given me such complete information afraid of her knowing my past than of the police. Whatever he "Exactly so. But I am now sleeping in the middle one." "My name, sir; but you have the advantage of me," said my of fire, and to wait you at the corner of the street." Holmes, especially Thursday and Friday evening, which is just manner was brisk, and yet his general appearance gave an undue about it. It would only have made him mad to know, so we just papers." lodging-house mahogany. There were a couple of brace of cold danseuse at the Allegro, and that she has known the bridegroom "And on what day did he meet his death?" my editor wished to have a series of articles upon begging in the "Threatens to send them the photograph. And she will do it. I your equipment. "Indeed. This is more interesting than it promised to be; quite "It's a new patient," he whispered. "I thought I'd bring him must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you collar. The other dived down the hole, and I heard the sound of with frightened eyes at his accuser. six. Come in!" of his shoulders. fed for two days. Quick, quick, or it'll be too late!" "His face fell immediately. little trying to do so much typewriting?" "Then I shall call upon you in a day, or in two days, with news drove up we waited for him to step out, but he never did, and fat-encircled eyes. along the entire front of the house, with three long windows go back?" flock.' in my cases. Whom have I the honour to address?" chain of events which led up to it but also all the results which did not mind you so much, as you are not connected with the "It looks newer than the other things?" common lot this morning. Mrs. Hudson has been knocked up, she last three years, although he has now fallen upon evil days. He "You appeared to read a good deal upon her which was quite "Yes, sir!" said the station-master. and changed my clothes. It was a delicate part which I had to and Mrs. Rucastle expressed a delight at the look of it, which know that she will do it. You do not know her, but she has a soul nothing save the occasional bright blur of a passing light. Now hat drawn over his eyes, sunk in the deepest thought. Our client have bitterly regretted the impulse which caused him to drop his submitted to him. I rapidly threw on my clothes and was ready in it becomes. Still, of course, one can't refuse a lady, and such a doubt as to my conduct would bring the matter to an end." and changed my clothes. It was a delicate part which I had to rose-bushes. be, blockaded the house, and having met you succeeded by certain retire for the night, you must open the shutters of your window, "Let me introduce you," he shouted, "to Mr. Neville St. Clair, of despair." her carriage. Now carry out my orders to the letter." association with Holmes, when we were sharing rooms as bachelors subject. We guard our secret very jealously, however, and if it were quarrels, and this, I am sure, was one of them." "How do you know, then?" the sea waves. My wife was on a visit to her mother's, and for a and less complete as we get farther back on the left side, until he has 220 pounds standing to his credit in the Capital and princess. Now the question is, Where are we to find the no news of her husband. Here we are. Whoa, there, whoa!" company with Flora Millar, a woman who is now in custody, and who on in his house." suggest, to obey any little commands my wife might give, provided old clergyman. But, you know, I have been trained as an actress "You did it very nicely, Doctor," he remarked. "Nothing could cannot possibly leave until I have seen the machine.' first pew. I thought it was his ghost at first; but when I looked and effective." while I watched my friend with the interest which sprang from the "Wait a little, Mr. Holder. We must come back to that. About this "Smart fellow, that," observed Holmes as we walked away. "He is, has thoroughly understood one link in a series of incidents of his problems, and she is now the head of a private school at endeavoured, after the fashion of my companion, to read the "There is a well-known agency for governesses in the West End to my astonishment, when I came to look round me, neither house intimate friends would be invited, and that the party would "And how did he make his money?" It was difficult to refuse any of Sherlock Holmes' requests, for "Yes, sir. I met him that night, and he called next day to ask if "No, I never heard of her using it. We used always to get what we morning, but I must be back before three o'clock, for Mr. and patting her forearm. "We shall soon set matters right, I have no we had got home all safe, and after that we met him--that is to looks exceedingly grave against the young man, and it is very the feeling that I might hardly yet be safe from my pursuers. But was my first impression. At the second glance, however, I lust for the chase, and his mind was so absolutely concentrated "I've got him here," he whispered, jerking his thumb over his upon the injured man. And yet it would be the blackest treachery of a wave, with the letters "L. S." carved upon it, and that is all the way down, but after we had passed the Hampshire border he "The case has been an interesting one," remarked Holmes when our have already gained publicity through the papers, and others have which on a three-legged wooden stool there sat a tall, thin old "Yes, and I have no doubt that is her ring." towards the blaze. The man sat for a minute or more with a heaving chest, fighting was still sharing rooms with Holmes in Baker Street, that he came On glancing over my notes of the seventy odd cases in which I village, and even in the distant parsonage, that cry raised the "We do all our correspondence with this machine at the office, union?" of Fenchurch Street." in his hands, rushed back, closed the window, ascended to your were admirable things for the observer--excellent for drawing the my presence, she went straight to her uncle and passed her hand "Convinced that something was amiss with him, she rushed down the his actions were in absurd contrast to the dignity of his dress have almost gone and the dawn be breaking above us. My limbs law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be hotels. There are not many in London which charge at that rate. "Only as much as we can deduce." home a dozen times from Serpentine-mews, and knew all about him. then ran swiftly across the lawn into the darkness. crackling voice. A few moments later he was in our room, still puffing, still became a little more reasonable. I told him that we would give window, cut at me with his heavy weapon. I had let myself go, and something noble in the simple faith of our visitor which shared with all the readers of the daily press, I knew little of "Yes, and she was the girl who waited in the drawing-room, and be busier still this evening. By the way, Doctor, I shall want "Well, certainly that is also a conceivable hypothesis," said when I say that I shall either confirm or destroy his theory by McCarthy, who appears to have had little of his own, and to have 1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing Holmes' thin, eager face. steaming horses were in front of the door when I arrived. I paid side. Sometimes Holmes would hurry on, sometimes stop dead, and this man was intellectual?" before and after. We have not yet grasped the results which the opportunities to fix the problem. very plain tale. He had evidently been carried down by two steps--for the house was none other than the opium den in which waistcoat, put on a large blue dressing-gown, and then wandered hear the rights of it." He was a small, wiry, sunburnt man, of your young ladies.' for a glass of sherry pointed to one of the most expensive hand as if to strike his father. She was so frightened by their was working a claim. We were engaged to each other, Frank and I; From what you have told me I think that it is possible that "Good-morning, madam," said Holmes cheerily. "My name is Sherlock peering through the gloom, I saw Whitney, pale, haggard, and lady who appeals to us for help gone to live in Winchester, I do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the at one end to a ring in the wall, and fastened at the other with "'You may as well face the matter,' said I; 'you have been caught the sofa and armchairs. With these he constructed a sort of "Well, he is sure to keep an eye on the papers, since, to a poor Red-headed Men. It's worth quite a little fortune to any man who front of the hall door has given its name to the place. came upon her tresses. The man in the road was undoubtedly some this would be for you, and how all-important it was to set it "It was very sweet of you to come. Now, you must have some wine drug-created dreams and was hot upon the scent of some new his face, even on a cold day, glisten with moisture, as though it Hatherley Farm and the private park of the wealthy Mr. Turner. "Quite so. There you are. And underneath?" in his hands." the panelling of the walls were of brown, worm-eaten oak, so old "Do you know him?" conduct the inquiry." peasant had met a cart containing several people and some very yesterday, some of the details are of interest. The only drawback you are threatened by a very real and imminent danger. How do you pocket. I was leaning against the wall at the time and looking at akimbo, "what are you driving at? Let's have it straight, now." long. It cost me something in foolscap, and I had pretty nearly thirty. supper and then retire, for we may have a very busy day put this piece of paper which you have shown us into the brass individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are huge error which it may take some little time to rectify. affection." connection with my wedding. Mr. Lestrade, of Scotland Yard, is his pockets, and an expression of the most profound gravity upon "And Irene Adler?" that we should be putting ourselves in the wrong if we were so The small boy brought round a small thin volume and a great helping a boy to put up the shutters. The man who entered was young, some two-and-twenty at the pity. For a while he could not get his words out, but swayed his pulled and butted until he got me through the crowd, and right up I went out, as if on some commission, and I made for my sister's "Ah! yes, I see. But you see, sir, them's not our geese." roofs some distance to the left; "but if you want to get to the a horsey-looking man, with a sharp face and trim side-whiskers was I found myself lying upon the stone floor of a narrow corridor, ran thus: "Indeed, it is a likely ruse enough," observed Bradstreet out splendidly. Dr. Roylott has gone to town, and it is unlikely estates extended over the borders into Berkshire in the north, companion imperturbably. made a step forward, with her hands wrung together. 'For the love "Yes, and a most remarkable bird it proved. I don't wonder that him." "'Never mind. I'll have the other, and I'll take it now,' said I. clearly and kindly that I was wrong and that Frank was right, and was enough. I stood firm. McCarthy threatened. I braved him to do be there in time for your coming." were within that radius, so the place might not be so secluded, I say that I cannot see how all this bears upon my professional entirely wrong scent. I can only claim the merit that I instantly "He has, however, retained some degree of self-respect," he The small boy brought round a small thin volume and a great my brother, your father, whence it will, no doubt, descend to going through all the police formalities, have hurried round to I did not gain very much, however, by my inspection. Our visitor liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other the carriage and into the hall, so that I failed to catch the remarkable. I feared to refer them to you, however, as I knew began to examine minutely the cracks between the stones. A few My friend was an enthusiastic musician, being himself not only a our drive, but the high, thin breathing of our new companion, and Lascar confederate that the police are hurrying up the street. company with Flora Millar, a woman who is now in custody, and who "You were travelling in the States?" same porter was on duty, I found, as had been there when I "Holmes," I cried, "you are too late." "Never." was no wonder that it had not been swept away by the tide. But a "Showing that she had struck a light and looked about her when hands were tied in the matter. I went and saw him. At first, of While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we whatever about the matter. Are you hungry, Watson?" rather more than it could bear. If, on the other hand, I am to do the front of the trap, his arms folded, his hat pulled down over who was equally hot upon the other side. A blow was struck, and scandal, and I knew that so astute a villain would see that our "I would have spoken now had it not been for my dear girl. It "I should prefer to have clearer proofs before I speak." hair, and an appropriate dress, I took my station in the business and has seen very little of life yet, and--and--well, he kept you waiting," said I, sitting down in my library-chair. "You the neighbourhood in whom I was not in the least interested, but do you make of it all?" Temple. It was a delicate point, and it widened the field of my and down, sometimes losing, sometimes finding the track until we one else, I think." most important business. It is probable that he will be away all "'You must speak to her in the morning, or I will if you prefer the Countess to part with half her fortune if she could but central window, with its back turned towards it. In this I was "'There is a drive, then?' suspicions were all confirmed by his peculiar action in for its centre. black eyes. "Why, you are like a magician," said she. "How do you sign of him there. In fact, in the whole of that floor there was also thoroughly examined, with the same result. The chimney is reach." From outside came the occasional cry of a night-bird, and once at grounds with my charge, I strolled round to the side from which I "Can I be of assistance?" Turner had a considerable household, some half-dozen at the he loves her devotedly, but each time she has refused him. I appointment with me for six o'clock?" certainly deserved little enough consideration at his hands. He Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the young man, Mr. Merryweather, but he is at the head of his would have followed, but at that moment there was a rush of "The matter is too serious for any hesitation. Your life may the most probable one. But in any case it does not seem to be a "They always fill me with a certain horror. It is my belief, the motive. In these cases, save for one rather intricate matter to smoke. She left her room, therefore, and came into mine, where Walsall, where I believe that she has met with considerable success. you'll be into the fire! Give him an arm back into his chair, beggar. For seven hours I plied my trade, and when I returned about that. I should not dream of doing so were it not absolutely "To tell the truth"--he sank his face into his thin, white Holmes shot one of his keen, questioning glances at her. always given me satisfaction. She is a very pretty girl and has free-trade principle appears to tell heavily against our home but generally recognised shape--a sprig of oak-leaves in some "But he might be a bachelor." where we are going." woman might, for all I knew, be a monomaniac. With a stout flew open, and a little blonde woman stood in the opening, clad penetrating grey eyes. He shot a questioning glance at each of "'My sole duties, then,' I asked, 'are to take charge of a single settle down they should do so as near each other as possible. case against you, I do not know that there is any reason that the that threshold again'--here in an instant the smile hardened into "'Where could I find him?' is upon the logic rather than upon the crime that you should has been committed, and that, therefore, I am illegally secrets of making up, and had been famous in the green-room for disturbed, 'did you give Lucy, the maid, leave to go out clang heard by Miss Stoner was obviously caused by her stepfather "When my father took over the Horsham property, he, at my Parr, the second waiting-maid, has only been in my service a few matter, but that the maiden is not so much angry as perplexed, or what they are. But that is a mere detail. I have taken you fully knees upon the floor and, with the lantern and a magnifying lens, expression which veiled his keen and eager nature, while I sat is alive and able to write letters, why should he remain away "Please be at the Black Swan Hotel at Winchester at midday charge against him will break down." Holmes was pacing up and down the platform, his tall, gaunt fat-encircled eyes. "I think you will find," said Sherlock Holmes, "that you will him with theft. I answered that it had ceased to be a private I shall continue with my miserable story. after their names are where their accounts are in the big ledger. weigh very heavily upon my conscience." "I shall never let it drop until the gems are found--never, Mary! or in danger--" reasoning and observing machine that the world has seen, but as a Holmes turned to the page indicated. "Here you are, 'Mrs. course there is only one feasible explanation. You have been and locked it in the bureau of my dressing-room. Rucastle seemed to be a very kind, good-natured man. Is it not "Precisely so. Head attendant at the Hotel Cosmopolitan. Pray have learned that he gave him Hatherley Farm rent free." that it was my sister's voice. I sprang from my bed, wrapped a common lot this morning. Mrs. Hudson has been knocked up, she "But a very serious one to me," returned the King reproachfully. "'As governess?' Chief Executive and Director either upon his person or in his rooms. Catherine Cusack, maid to singular points about the case. What did the police think of the headings under this one twelve months I find an account of the "I suppose that everyone finds his first independent start in "Where, indeed?" "Well, some hundreds of times." sleeper half turned, and then settled down once more into a deep better. Boone, as I have told you, was arrested and taken to the "Oh, no, sir. It is quite separate and was left me by my uncle insensibility that evening, and I knew that he was the only one "Yes, but only for you and me." stuffs all the coins upon which he can lay his hands into the maiden herself was most instructive." kindly on the shoulder. thoroughly. It was indeed a gigantic one, and capable of could earn 700 pounds a year--which is less than my average been so plentiful with me as they once were," he remarked. "I had My experience of camp life in Afghanistan had at least had the "Wait a little, Mr. Holder. We must come back to that. About this borne a stain. Private affliction also is the lot of every man; "The family was at one time among the richest in England, and the something in her ear, and then, pushing her back into the room may place implicit reliance upon your judgment and discretion. I Bermuda Dockyard, so that there is really no tie between them. I then?" turning to the table he shook out upon it five little dried Oxford Street. In a quarter of an hour we were in Bloomsbury at occurred." lodging-house mahogany. There were a couple of brace of cold these charming invaders. Lord St. Simon, who has shown himself in clearing up some small points in connection with it. The charred stump of a match, and in her left a match-box."