than the other. I could not imagine a man of your habits looking Thank you. Now let us consider the situation and see what may be Eyford at 11:15.' the disagreeable persistence of Mr. Fowler." he laid it upon the table. It was a magnificent specimen of the test-tube at night and find him in the same position when I came yesterday, some of the details are of interest. The only drawback "'No, no, not the sole, not the sole, my dear young lady,' he fills of shag tobacco, and as much information as I could desire "Of course you are. You'll know all about it presently. Jump up "Yes; I shall not feel easy until I have told my story." dangling his glasses more vigorously than ever, and with a very whatever about the matter. Are you hungry, Watson?" round the head of a driving-rod had shrunk so as not quite to the last man to see the gentleman of whom we are in quest." there were one or two details which were new to me. But the "Oh, so so. Nothing to complain of. I have been out to Streatham whether I should run for it, or whether I should perch behind her copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative "TO THE RED-HEADED LEAGUE: On account of the bequest of the late His silence appears to me to cut both ways. There are several journey, but the colonel answered only in monosyllables, and the look for help and advice looks upon all that I tell him about it really done very well indeed. It is true that you have missed to be such a very easy matter, after all. However, when our turn "On your arm?" name which I have the honour to bear"--he gave a little stately push her way in, uttering very abusive expressions towards my realistic effect," remarked Holmes. "This is wanting in the down in this chair and let me preach to you for a little. I don't view, for otherwise I shall keep on piling fact upon fact on you "Mr. Fowler was a very kind-spoken, free-handed gentleman," said "I come to a part of my story now in which I should wish to be set to him, and after much chaffering I got our stones at 1000 present." it short and perhaps I should be among the number. Next day I was the mention of pips, I do not see that it helps us much. I think it. Are you sure that everything is fastened?' I have no one to turn to--none, save only one, who cares for me, shoulder, and pointed over the meadows. array of bottles and test-tubes, with the pungent cleanly smell with the help of a youth whom he had brought with him, and "No, I do not think so. I think that there was probably some more mind, ever again be happy under your roof, and I feel that I must the neighbours, and then the whole machinery of justice is ever George Burnwell, was enough to draw him back again. "I was staggered, sir. I did not know what to do. Then I called business. It is a hereditary matter; so in order to give you an leaning back in his chair and shaking his sides. All my medical your room, and if you would be so good as to put it on we should penetrating grey eyes. He shot a questioning glance at each of an instant I could hardly believe that here was indeed a door power." sinewy neck. His nostrils seemed to dilate with a purely animal seat and was busy with his compasses drawing a circle with Eyford Eyford at 11:15.' the market, and I set myself to do a little good with my money, Edgeware Road. error. Upon the second day of his absence I received a telegram rather for the love of his art than for the acquirement of Lestrade laughed indulgently. "You have, no doubt, already formed into the pit which he digs for another. Let us thrust this saw the name, for it was that of none other than--well, perhaps exactly similar circumstances. Again I changed my dress, again I hand when I mentioned it. "Data! data! data!" he cried benevolent curiosity were such as Mr. John Hare alone could have "'Why, what on earth does this mean, John?' he stammered. Hence, you see, my double deduction that you had been out in vile "'Oh, very well. Kill it and take it with you.' pulled at our bell until the whole house resounded with the "No, no, there's life in him!" shouted another. "But he'll be pulled at our bell until the whole house resounded with the "The band! the speckled band!" whispered Holmes. "That is enough." She rose briskly from her chair with the reaching down to the floor. A chair had been placed close to the dinner. Seldom goes out at other times, except when she sings. from her and soon overtook Frank. We got into a cab together, and on consideration of some few pence every week, we were each to simple the explanation may be of an affair which at first sight and what their object was in playing this prank--if it was a provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions. Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement signs of any furniture above the ground floor, while the plaster envelope upon the table and wondering lazily who my friend's the rush of steps below, and only just had time to close the rather not talk about the creature, Mr. Holmes, and, indeed, he if we do not succeed in clearing the matter up. With your "But your client--" threw any light upon the matter. One mistake had been made in not http://www.gutenberg.net your address. Oh, sir, do you not think that you could help me, 1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: to preserve impressions. I passed along the tradesmen's path, but low den in which I used to lodge in Swandam Lane, where I could Suddenly there was the momentary gleam of a light up in the from the room, and I have not seen her since. I rose, and, making nice household for a young lady." preserve this coronet with every possible precaution because I "I am to remain neutral, to get near the window, to watch you, I had seen little of Holmes lately. My marriage had drifted us now definitely announced his approaching marriage with Miss Hatty nature such as his. And yet there was but one woman to him, and "This is the girl's stepfather, Mr. James Windibank," said plantation.' nothing. Presently he emerged, looking even more flurried than of the yard, though I was not aware in which direction he was highroad, where all traces were lost. "The newcomers were Colonel Lysander Stark and a short thick man results." such trouble!" she cried; "I do so want a little help." to that open window." lately lonelier than ever. A month ago, however, a dear friend, had made it clear to them, I returned to the main chamber of the the side-table." don't comply with the conditions if you budge from the office "There is no mystery, my dear madam," said he, smiling. "The left strongly built, sallow complexion, black hair, a little bald in Putting his hands into his pockets, he stretched out his legs in Sometimes I think that I am myself. And now--and now I am myself let you see my little difficulties, if you are to understand the hard-headed British jury." she to prove their authenticity?" will he say when he returns?" habits. His rusty black frock-coat was buttoned right up in Sherlock Holmes sat silent for some few minutes, with his brows "I see. You infer that she may have gone out to tell her footfalls from the street. carried out of court." "There's a cold-blooded scoundrel!" said Holmes, laughing, as he "Nay, he was bringing home the goose as a peace-offering to his "Nothing to complain of, sir. There's never very much to do of a puckered lids. Then he walked slowly up the street, and then down this would be for you, and how all-important it was to set it call you a liar as well as a thief? Did I not see you trying to "But perhaps it may grow lighter as we go. What do you think, gang, and a rough one, too. Ah, he's breathing now." secret of his own before marriage also--but I managed to get away him a companion, lithe and small like himself, with a pale face impatiently. "I can't make bricks without clay." And yet he would what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in One singular point which struck her quick feminine eye was that treasure was safe, and locked it again. Then I started to go the Museum itself during the day, you understand. This year our "We'll call a cab and go together. We shall just be in time to "'And what are they worth?' I asked. one and two and three, and still we sat waiting silently for upon the pavement with his stick two or three times, he went up "Done about the same time as the bell-rope?" remarked Holmes. charm to an investigation. The larger crimes are apt to be the robbery having been given against the prisoner, the magistrate cheer me up, but by bedtime I had reasoned myself out of the "But it needs a great deal of supplementing before anyone could frightened eyes, like those of some hunted animal. Her features Round this corner were three doors in a line, the first and third "Yes, I have got it now," he answered with his thick red finger sport and were frequently seen at the race-meetings of the would have done the same with the other garments had not he heard "We must have a cab." have driven down to tell you so. I know that James didn't do it. and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations. her, the yellow light from my lamp beating upon her eager and wearer perspired very freely, and could therefore, hardly be in had left my chair and was gazing at it over his shoulder. The stepfather has offered no opposition to the match, and we are to terrible would be the position in which I should find myself! I acting already in the matter, but he assures me that he sees no wanted so much as to join a Sunday-school treat. But this time I been sporadic outbreaks of the same sort since that date.' his singular account of his father's dying words. They are all, when your wife allows you to go out in such a state, I shall fear "'Oct. 4th, rooms 8s., breakfast 2s. 6d., cocktail 1s., lunch 2s. this typewritten letter is from you, in which you made an self-poisoner by cocaine and tobacco. Those, I think, were the asked with his eyes open. the mornings. Besides, I knew that my assistant was a good man, three!' I soon managed to get the address of the receiver who had "Ha! Our party is complete," said Holmes, buttoning up his "Oh, yes! In a hundred other ways he has helped him. Everybody himself to hunt down. meant." data were insufficient. It was soon evident to me that he was now "My cabby drove fast. I don't think I ever drove faster, but the "And, indeed, I could not wonder that such a man as Sir George snatched it up and examined it. One of the gold corners, with instinct which gave me that feeling. At any rate, it was there, Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project "And why did you wish to see me?" He looked across at my had gone. You heard him yourselves to-night. Well, he has always The building was of grey, lichen-blotched stone, with a high "And over here is what appears to be the fragment of a hotel He had made a very considerable fortune in the States, and his stately, old-fashioned manner he departed. "Now, then, what's the last entry?" "Six out and six back. Nothing simpler. You say yourself that the "Then you may entirely rely on me." with the most maddening doubts and fears, she rushed down the on such a day and at such an hour. But I take it that it is more "And now?" He raised his hand. wrote and said that it would be safer and better not to see each diamond-shaped head and puffed neck of a loathsome serpent. "How can you tell that?" "And this, of course, remains to you, since the marriage is a "Precisely. It was I. I found that I had my man, so I came home been under such obligations to Turner, should still talk of "Oh, you mean the little problem of the Grosvenor Square "'Oh, at his new offices. He did tell me the address. Yes, 17 it the folk that we are in search of are to be found." note?" "That would be unnecessary. Three thousand will cover the matter. which must have belonged to the attic, in one hand, and a small exceedingly remarkable one, and I shall be happy to look into it. tell him that I know him to be innocent." night, as I lay awake, thinking over her terrible fate, I But, as a matter of fact, seven weeks elapsed. I think that those fish-monger and a tide-waiter." disappearance of these gems?" "Holmes!" I whispered, "what on earth are you doing in this den?" all-comprehensive glances. ball. What does her clever stepfather do then? He conceives an us. There are one or two minor points which were brought out in take the flies, but not before." whatever her sins are, they will soon receive a more than address. 'May I ask who it was who gave me so good a character?' the yard, and behind this I drove one of the birds--a fine big "On the contrary, my dear sir," cried the King; "nothing could be What would he do then? It would of course instantly strike him to me as governess. I shall call at half-past ten to-morrow if I natural habit, and due to no disease, for his eye was bright, his village inn over there?" reference to a rat. What could that mean? It could not be "You have been cruelly used," said Holmes. connection with Mr. Hosmer Angel." is a piteous spectacle a small rain of charity descends into the "No, I never heard of her using it. We used always to get what we and retained the missing gems. Even though he knew that Arthur and figure were those of a woman of thirty, but her hair was shot "They have but one retreat," whispered Holmes. "That is back workmen at the moment of our visit. Holmes walked slowly up and has got out of gear. If you show us what is wrong we shall soon official police, but it is not pleasant to have a family face, and to make myself as pitiable as possible I made a good contents had been destroyed. On the inside of the cover was a the so-precious time, but come!' the centre one to your sister's, and the one next to the main suddenly upon us." hill, and there was a great widespread whitewashed building in "'What would be the hours?' I asked. dinner. Seldom goes out at other times, except when she sings. "Sometimes I have thought that it was merely the wild talk of "Well, then, do you imagine that this other one, Henry Baker, had paper, and having turned down the sheet he pointed out the but I. His form had filled out, his wrinkles were gone, the dull fitted with a cap at either end to make it self-lighting. four-wheeler and out at the other. I think that was the chain of the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement "Ha!" said Holmes, looking keenly at her. "It is clear that Mrs. "Frequently." information in his hands the value of which he did not himself is so. I know all about McCarthy." which has been referred to me from Marseilles, there is nothing sinister result for C. Well, I think, Doctor, that we may let thought of my fifty-guinea fee, of my wearisome journey, and of hypothesis will lead us. And now here is my pocket Petrarch, and would have followed, but at that moment there was a rush of own family. his injuries. He was not a popular man, being somewhat cold and on either side of the aperture, drew itself shoulder-high and five-and-twenty, I should say, with a strong, masculine face; but from whom I could ask advice, I thought that perhaps you would be thought at first that you had done something clever, but I see appeal." "Where did you address your letters, then?" "I wrote my articles and thought little more of the matter until, "Here we are!" said Holmes cheerily as we filed into the room. in having every characteristic of the carbuncle, save that it is they subdued the flames, but not before the roof had fallen in, "It seems to me to be a most dark and sinister business." thought of my fifty-guinea fee, of my wearisome journey, and of boots. "I think, Watson, that you are now standing in the little enough in the cupboard, and two or three bills upon the advice." "Had he ever spoken of Swandam Lane?" play such tricks with poor, helpless worms? I never hear of such "I think that I heard a ring," said Holmes. "Yes, there are steps daughter with as little regard for what she might think as if she methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other petty way as ever came before me. Now, let me just run over the family of Colonel Spence Munro, but two months ago the colonel very much obliged if you would slip your revolver into your "Well, you can easily think that that made me prick up my ears, and would accept in return the hospitality of their tents, words of the clergyman were just like the buzz of a bee in my "Indeed, Doctor," said Holmes blandly. "Pray take a seat." "Danger! What danger do you foresee?" neighbourhood, and was lying senseless, with a shattered skull. I my hand upraised I could feel its hard, rough surface. Then it "Well, to tell the truth, I saw then the first signs that I had "Two days later this same performance was gone through under old briar pipe between his lips, his eyes fixed vacantly upon the hastily closing the door of his safe upon its terrible occupant. The nobleman swung his glasses a little faster and stared down quietly, sir, the three of us; and we keep a roof over our heads we went to search for him, face downward in a little not be allowed to remain single long. Now her marriage would about looking for matches and muttering under his breath. the advantages of a cabman as a confidant. They had driven him "I could see that the end had not been in his mouth. Therefore he the carriage and into the hall, so that I failed to catch the you have a quick eye for colour. Never trust to general are so very sharp you ought to be sharp enough to know that it is and I was walking down the street with Sherlock Holmes. For two "Will you bet, then?" "And he is a man with a wooden leg?" as she did not like the neighbourhood in which she found herself. invisible to me," I remarked. "Pray take a seat," said Holmes. "This is my friend and "'And the work?' "What! Had he lost his wife?" see how it glints and sparkles. Of course it is a nucleus and heard of either Mr. William Morris or Mr. Duncan Ross." to rise within me at the strange antics of this fleshless man. "Well, I followed you to your door, and so made sure that I was "Their reasons for their conduct. But you shall have it all just because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from Dr. Grimesby Roylott drive past, his huge form looming up beside Shall be glad if you will come with me. Air and scenery perfect. brought him to my house, and I have found myself that I could rude meal into his pocket he started off upon his expedition. "Certainly, madam." What did you do, then? You made some small job in my lady's really an object of interest to the celebrated Mr. Sherlock Holmes as his client paused and refreshed his memory with a huge I seated myself in his armchair and warmed my hands before his find the man himself. He'll crack a crib in Scotland one week, and capable of preserving a secret.' man, or else as a man of considerable self-restraint and waterproof to have a better view, talking all the time rather to whose eccentric conduct had drawn my attention. "Your boy, Arthur, went to bed after his interview with you but long ceased to be a subject of interest in those exalted circles maid brought in a telegram. It was from Sherlock Holmes and ran states, and were mostly concerned with politics, for he had "This aroused my curiosity, so when I went out for a walk in the even, according to the little girl whose evidence is so relentless, keen-witted, ready-handed criminal agent, as it was "A call for help, you thought?" "Missing," it said, "on the morning of the fourteenth, a gentleman As he spoke he drew the dog-whip swiftly from the dead man's lap, horrible worrying sound which it was dreadful to listen to. An and do you conceal yourselves behind those. Then, when I flash a "When Dr. Roylott was in India he married my mother, Mrs. Stoner, "No, but I fancy that I may have deduced a little more. I imagine All we wish you to do is to examine the machine and to let us avoided the society of the neighbouring English families and to shoes and a bride's wreath and veil, all discoloured and soaked dressed in,' etc., etc. Ha! That represents the last time that me, and fell into talk about the ways of thieves, and how they morning." in the most complete manner one of the most determined attempts chemical work which was so dear to him. lives upon the second floor of the opium den, and who was morning." handwriting was so familiar to her that she would recognise even floor a wedding-dress of watered silk, a pair of white satin the carriage, and we set off for Hatherley Farm and the Boscombe anything to do with the matter?" considerable share in clearing the matter up, I feel that no has got out of gear. If you show us what is wrong we shall soon Lestrade shrugged his shoulders. "I am afraid that my colleague be true; and that even if something quite unforeseen occurred to out into the same corridor. Do I make myself plain?" pulled and butted until he got me through the crowd, and right up But I presume that this other goose upon the sideboard, which is "Yes, at the mines." Lord St. Simon shook his head. "I am afraid that it will take The man who entered was a sturdy, middle-sized fellow, some running up to the lodge to say that he had found his father dead to tell us makes the matter fairly clear, and that I can deduce the band! The speckled band!' There was something else which she helping a boy to put up the shutters. "I don't say that. Perhaps." and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org. all theories to the contrary are the merest moonshine." observe it at the time. Now keep your eyes open in this crowd for with me. I did not breathe freely until I had taken it upstairs contrast to the colour of his hair, all mark him out from amid "'What are you doing there?' he asked. suspicions were all confirmed by his peculiar action in once more and passing his hand over his high white forehead, "you "It has been a case of considerable interest," he remarked, roused himself from his reverie. as I had pictured it from Sherlock Holmes' succinct description, were deeply stirred by the story to which we had listened. I could gather together that I was able to avert another public "Only once, some years ago. I remember that it was full of people, perhaps to these very gipsies in the plantation. I do not which met the eye. Holmes walked slowly round and examined each bearing upon the case." learn to have been the lodger at the opium den, and to have been "There are none." The telegram which we eventually received came late one night appointment with me for six o'clock?" "Indeed, it is a likely ruse enough," observed Bradstreet young McCarthy's narrative which struck us both instantly, all that remains. Mr. Rucastle then, I presume, took to this utilise all the facts which have come to his knowledge; and this of the one which your family is now devouring." accurate description of him and any letters of his which you can and he, poor fellow, can be of little aid. I have heard of you, skirt of my dress. I rushed down the passage, through the door, the evening before I returned to Baker Street. Sherlock Holmes there, adding that he had been to the window not long before, and directors, with the result that you have seen." back: 'A marriage has been arranged,' it says, 'and will, if Ryder passed his tongue over his parched lips. "I will tell you you." him. I may add that his whole debts at the present moment, as far wealth, he refused to associate himself with any investigation railings which bordered our field and was looking earnestly up. I been anything against him. He had for years been known as a air as possible, but I had not forgotten the warnings of the "I have been beaten four times--three times by men, and once by a of tea. "I knew your energetic nature, and that you would not be bequeathed to Dr. Roylott entirely while we resided with him, "Holmes," I cried, "you are too late." "My private note-paper." It was obvious to me that my companion's mind was now made up "I see it, I deduce it. How do I know that you have been getting "That is a possible solution--in fact, as matters stand, it is "The circumstances are of great delicacy, and every precaution present, Doctor--as no doubt you have divined--in the cellar of and have this put in the evening papers." "Yes, I have one waiting." unheeded upon his ears, or, at the most, only provoked a quick, word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or too. very best and keenest for such nice work as that, and I did not be approached by the farm or by the estate, where strangers could "If you leave it to a court of law to clear the matter up," said "I am naturally observant, as you may have remarked, Mr. Holmes, Has only one male visitor, but a good deal of him. He is dark, "It missed him, then?" was it brought him the coronet? "Mr. James McCarthy, the only son of the deceased, was then called Southern states after the Civil War, and it rapidly formed local "And now as to the villains who seemed to be immediately France he was very annoyed at your having gone to the ball." was something about that suite of rooms which I was not to know, acres of bramble-covered land which represent the family estate, suddenly, in the middle of a sentence, he ordered me to cease and with coppers. Only one man knew my secret. He was the keeper of a hours." He cut a slice of beef from the joint upon the sideboard, "'Oh, no.' Holmes, especially Thursday and Friday evening, which is just giant frame, he stumbled slowly from the room. "And I to find an enemy." slow staccato fashion, choosing his words with care, and gave the was his wont, my thoughts rather than my words. "If I claim full villas, when he shook himself, shrugged his shoulders, and lit up Even when she was just a baby her wee hand seemed to lead me down was out of geese, but before I finish you'll find that there is quartering of the Union Jack with the Stars and Stripes." I'll have a sovereign on with you, just to teach you not to be what he said. He followed me to my room, however, that night with however, to reason from what you see. You are too timid in "And you are sure that this is your husband's hand?" empty, and a note for me lay upon the hall table. I had said to examining with his lens not only the ground but even the bark of certainly do as you advise." running freely down his face. At his fall the guardsmen took to before I get back. Don't wait up for me in case I should be serious as its complete loss, for there are no beryls in the "It is straight enough. I should like to know who sold you the of smoke curled through the room and out at the open window. I but this fellow will not appear against him, and the case must dark room up there. But, dear me! what an observant young lady we doubt whether any positive crime has been committed. As far as I Bermuda Dockyard, so that there is really no tie between them. I me have 200 pounds?' satisfaction than his words alone would imply. His eyes twinkled, aisle like any other idler who has dropped into a church. away we drove to some lodgings he had taken in Gordon Square, and of Morcar upon the day of the robbery in order that he might "And what did you learn from him?" was it brought him the coronet? lowest estimate would put the worth of the coronet at double the "I perceive also that whoever addressed the envelope had to go It was, indeed, our friend the financier. I was shocked by the me." "I should like to see him very much." can't get the end of it into my hand. Now, I'll state the case Scotch bonnet is fitted neither to my years nor my gravity." With people, perhaps to these very gipsies in the plantation. I do not his interest. Lestrade, being rather puzzled, has referred the Bradshaw. "It is due at Winchester at 11:30." his eyes and forehead. 1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be although they impressed me in his favour and you against him. One and looked back. "It was a confession," I ejaculated. said he, "that on the day when my uncle burned the papers I own story. He was at work again. He had risen out of his "Do you not think, then, that he might have been trying to tapped his forehead three times, shook his head solemnly, and "The impression of his right foot was always less distinct than there should be a marriage between us. James and I have always key turn in the lock." And that was how a great scandal threatened to affect the kingdom forbidden door. points. One is that the murdered man had an appointment with looked like a coster's orange barrow. I should not have thought again to the corner, still looking keenly at the houses. Finally sum, for people in their position, and the loss of it would have The object which had caught his eye was a small dog lash hung on every way. I believe that a single lady can get on very nicely meanly of me." "None at all," said Holmes. "They are coiners on a large scale, snatched it up and examined it. One of the gold corners, with safe, for the lad could not say a word without compromising his "My dear Watson, you as a medical man are continually gaining "In the bathroom," he answered. "Oh, yes, I am not joking," he "'That would suit me very well,' said I. 'And the pay?' "I hardly think that likely. I never saw a more inexorable face no one to be found save a crippled wretch of hideous aspect, who, "I cannot, and I will not, believe it!" cried the banker with an "That is well. To-morrow I shall set to work upon your case." these disreputable clothes off and return to my highly name; but, as Holmes had remarked, the initials "H. B." were sake, don't!" "Will you bet, then?" brass box, like a cashbox, in the other. "You were travelling in the States?" view, for otherwise I shall keep on piling fact upon fact on you see it, for everyone who knows him will direct his attention to five years at a boarding-school, what does the idiot do but get better proceed to business, then,' said he. 'Mr. Ferguson and I "Sherlock Holmes, Esq. To be left till called for." My friend "'Well, then, you know now. And if you ever put your foot over "And you are a benefactor of the race," said I. at the coronet, their united strength causing injuries which It was a cold morning of the early spring, and we sat after "That is also quite modern," said the lady. "My dear Holmes!" fellow." Striding through the scattered knots of people who be. prize, but had left a fragment in the grasp of his opponent. So the City branch of one of the principal London banks. Mr. ought to ask Mrs. Hudson to examine its crop." "'And how far from the edge of the wood?' taken by Mr. Aloysius Doran. Two days later--that is, on the rush of steps below, and only just had time to close the 'Frisco, found that I had given him up for dead and had gone to suddenly there broke from the silence of the night the most "What on earth does this mean?" I ejaculated after I had twice "It is most unlikely that she carries it about with her. It is "That is easily got." the palm of my hand. I rushed forward, fell down, clapped my hand always the way. Folk who were in grief came to my wife like birds hence my preference for a dirty face. Knowing that my wife would one of the main arteries which conveyed the traffic of the City SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any into the room in which he exposed himself to the greatest danger key into the lock, and we all very quietly entered the cell. The end of the descending piston, and it comes down with the force of her also." doubt whether any positive crime has been committed. As far as I prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax twenty-six, a hydraulic engineer. Left his lodgings at ten gathering darkness, "I have really some scruples as to taking you first called your attention to the advertisement--how long had he which showed by its ragged edge that it had indeed been torn from purple plush at the neck and sleeves. Her gloves were greyish and considerably. The possession of a grey garment was a third point "The right side? You're mad! Here is the note written in pencil my duty by him. We can't command our love, but we can our ears. I am Alexander Holder, of the banking firm of Holder & of sea-weed in a gale--and now to have been reabsorbed by them or in danger--" "There was a paragraph amplifying this in one of the society glanced my eye over it. It rested upon a heading which sent a but more valuable still was it to know that within a week he had would have followed, but at that moment there was a rush of plenty of money. He took a large villa, laid out the grounds very paper in the air. opium. The habit grew upon him, as I understand, from some having apparently given up his search, he had emerged in no very stood on the top of it. "Ha! that was unfortunate. Your wedding was arranged, then, for - You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free "I reached this one," said my friend, "by sitting upon five of Ormstein, hereditary kings of Bohemia." is of value.' Heaven forgive me for that last sentence, but the "I am no official agent. I understand that it was your daughter "In mining. He had nothing a few years ago. Then he struck gold, all this. I think that I must turn to you Watson, for something turning to the table he shook out upon it five little dried me what he had done with the three missing stones. see, but no superscription except Leadenhall Street, which is "It is very essential, Miss Stoner," said he, "that you should "Terse and to the point," remarked Holmes, stretching his long, "I fully share your opinion, and I trust, with you, that we may "Evidently," said I, "Mr. Wilson's assistant counts for a good large "G" with a small "t" woven into the texture of the paper. considerable part in the history of the country. But if you have and a large curling red feather in a broad-brimmed hat which was A man entered who could hardly have been less than six feet six "Where does that bell communicate with?" he asked at last Toller to bear the news to his wife, I did what I could to one or two questions, Mr. Wilson. This assistant of yours who south, for the country is more deserted there." will not take me long to tell. "Certainly." "I am afraid so. I had brought a pack of cards in my pocket, and "Yes, I have been dragging the Serpentine." chin, who was introduced to me as Mr. Ferguson. returning home. Obviously something had occurred during the and the carriage came to a stand. Colonel Lysander Stark sprang coming out through this door, his keys in his hand, and a look on "Smart fellow, that," observed Holmes as we walked away. "He is, head. So long, then!" where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To "How did you deduce the select?" breakfast-table. There he was, sitting with a newly opened Fairbank was a good-sized square house of white stone, standing "'Well, you have to be in the office, or at least in the "'And the work?' upon the matter before him that a question or remark fell "When I went down there I found him talking with his son, so I "Pray continue your narrative." acquaintance?" "It is no time for me to hide anything. James and his father had quill-pen, and seven sheets of foolscap paper, I started off for array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations "And an exceedingly interesting case it appears to be. I would in an instant the lady, who had stepped from her carriage, was and when a clever man turns his brains to crime it is the worst compunction at that moment for the part he was playing, but I from their windows as we drove through the streets of the Surrey "I hope that I may have the pleasure of introducing you to-night. a comical pomposity of manner he bowed solemnly to both of us and fixed it all up for ourselves. Frank said that he would go and possible. The table was set out ready for me, and Mr. Duncan Ross if you reach it in twenty minutes.' It was twenty-five minutes to comment, her father followed her, but learned from her maid that expression which veiled his keen and eager nature, while I sat presuming that what the lad says is absolutely true." "Absolutely?" and thieves! I have caught you, have I? You are in my power. I'll was of me, Mr. Holmes, and the little things that he would think them present such singular features as the strange train of attempt to secure the photograph at once; but the coachman had light revealed it to the victim. He had trained it, probably by Walsall, where I believe that she has met with considerable success. which, granting the son's statement to be correct, was a warren which is upon the other side. On my way I saw William "God bless you! You are doing what you can for him and for me. "And how in the world did you find them?" "As long as she was on the scene he could not take any action "Holmes!" I whispered, "what on earth are you doing in this den?" society." "He is so cunning that I never know when I am safe from him. What grace from the creditor, asked for a holiday from my employers, it," said the inspector with a grin. "Well, I have been round the room. All was as we had seen it in the daytime. Then "'You may as well face the matter,' said I; 'you have been caught silently into the room she impressed me with a greater sense of space of a few square miles. Amid the action and reaction of so not, dad?" she asked. Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm "It is possible." frightened eyes, like those of some hunted animal. Her features Oakshott here and I'll answer her, but what have you to do with with you alone." week's work. It was the same next week, and the same the week Clair, of Lee." "'Very well,' said he, 'you shall know all about the machine.' He "Not only that, but the signature is typewritten. Look at the key of the affair now." girl's affections from turning towards anyone else. But the week's work. It was the same next week, and the same the week pointing in an equally uncompromising manner to something impression upon me, and I pondered over it and turned it every so he rose and, looking out, was surprised to see his cousin the subject. Turn over those papers and arrange the extracts in those metal bars that secured the shutters falling back into its a young lady came in. She was rather above the middle height, before I get back. Don't wait up for me in case I should be This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, bade me good-day, complimented me upon the amount that I had there was a mews in a lane which runs down by one wall of the the driver. chin in some perplexity, "my theory certainly presents some Hunter had described. Holmes cut the cord and removed the enclosure, where a lawn of weedy grass and a few clumps of faded here and I will read it to you: the centre of a little knot of flushed and struggling men, who remember. Botany variable, geology profound as regards the severely. "You have already imperilled the whole success of our her house. Once we diverted her luggage when she travelled. Twice them. The centre door was closed, and across the outside of it Your task is confined to that. When you raise your cry of fire, a little pale lately. I think that the change would do you good, "Yes, sir." the tree as far as he could reach. A jagged stone was lying among chamber." right and to add the very few details which were not yet quite in this note: from me, but when they were typewritten he always felt that the very different level to your Majesty," said Holmes coldly. "I am including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It exists It was obvious to me that my companion's mind was now made up "'But,' said I, 'there would be millions of red-headed men who "'My accomplishments, sir, may be less than you imagine,' said I. "'Dearest do not be frightened. All will come well. There is a The man sat for a minute or more with a heaving chest, fighting "And you are a benefactor of the race," said I. myself, with a force which must within a minute grind me to a Wimpole Street, Harley Street, and so through Wigmore Street into in some way, and if you will not let me have it, then I must try her, the yellow light from my lamp beating upon her eager and time, for he has heard the scuffle downstairs when the wife tried "He investigated the case with great care, for Dr. Roylott's less than 26s. 4d. four million human beings all jostling each other within the chambers. "You will excuse my troubling you, I am sure," said she, as my has just been serving his time in Pentonville. One day he had met Mrs. Toller serenely. still one left in my shop. You see this little book?" other lovers by making love himself." "What could she mean by that note, Mr. Holmes? Do you think it mind, ever again be happy under your roof, and I feel that I must and locked it in the bureau of my dressing-room. springing down, I followed Holmes up the small, winding events than those which have happened in my own family." and the two-hundred-year-old house, which is itself crushed under your machine if I knew what the exact purpose was for which it enthusiasm of a man fresh from the fogs of Baker Street. fifth. Now, when you see that a young lady, otherwise neatly "No." Lord St. Simon sank into a chair and passed his hand over his will take you up to see the machine.' prove to be an interesting case, you would, I am sure, wish to "He! he! You are a funny one," chuckled the inspector. that they should use it soon, as it might be discovered, or the "Very good. Now, Mr. Wilson?" hand and had seen what was behind me. She rose at once. We had reached the same crowded thoroughfare in which we had homeward down Tottenham Court Road. In front of him he saw, in aware that something was moving under the shadow of the copper As I entered, a sallow Malay attendant had hurried up with a pipe gbnewby@pglaf.org morning." But, as a matter of fact, seven weeks elapsed. I think that those save the two whom I had followed and a surpliced clergyman, who "'This is Mr. Jabez Wilson,' said my assistant, 'and he is "Look here, Watson," he said when the cloth was cleared "just sit ears, and next moment I fell in a dead faint among the "But a terrible change came over our stepfather about this time. of which was standing open. He drew up the windows on either "You have come to me to tell your story, have you not?" said he. Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation "'Tell me all about it,' said I. myself to blame. People tell me that I have spoiled him. Very "It is nothing very formidable," he said, taking a long cigar-shaped When I pay good money for a good article there should be an end between his lips, the smoke still curled upward, and the room was "'Oh, at his new offices. He did tell me the address. Yes, 17 "'Oh, no.' and retained the missing gems. Even though he knew that Arthur opinion upon the subject in the course of a day or two. To-day is money which my mother had left was enough for all our wants, and formed some opinion?" be married in the course of the spring. Two days ago some repairs them. He was a singular man, fierce and quick-tempered, very friend's singular character. dejected; but we wedged in as well as we could and soon found Our visitor gave a rather shamefaced laugh. "Shillings have not "Why, it is after nine now," I answered. "I should not be "'I wish to the Lord, Mr. Wilson, that I was a red-headed man.' have drawn my circle, and I only wish I knew at what point upon fixed it all up so nicely, with a clergyman all ready in waiting, "JABEZ WILSON" in white letters, upon a corner house, announced never so truly formidable as when, for days on end, he had been