to time, or stopping the wagons on the road to the diggings. my room." "Excellent! We shall then look thoroughly into the affair. Of of Ormstein, hereditary kings of Bohemia." of them in a row, three of which were simply dirty, while the "'Oh,' says she, 'we've set yours aside for you--Jem's bird, we Counties Bank. There is no reason, therefore, to think that money "But I would not have let the young man come to harm. I give you tissue of mysteries and improbabilities the whole thing was! I this man was intellectual?" correspondent, and he has at this moment a cheetah and a baboon, plunged forward, wrung my hand, and congratulated me warmly on my the evening before, and also that there had been a strong frost was still dangerously slippery, so that there were fewer be. They were always very careful, I observed, to turn my face in the banks of the Amoy River in southern China and is remarkable been forced before now, and why should not mine be? If so, how Hatherley about three in the afternoon and walked down to the on the kitchen rug. Here are his keys, which are the duplicates all of what it meant. I returned the strange hair to the drawer, paper in the air. "I beg that you will not touch me with your filthy hands," death, I am ever your loving,--MARY.' woman." will soon have to answer for your deed at a higher court than the "If I may give an opinion," remarked the strange gentleman, Regent Street with hardly a coat to his back or a boot to his society." what he said. He followed me to my room, however, that night with sill and framework of the hall window with my lens, and I could it is hardly safe and should be stopped.' crust of metallic deposit all over it. I had stooped and was residence of the great financier. remarked. "What do you think, Watson? Could your patients spare Rucastle to be back before three. I got his leave to come into moment. They will see that you are not there. Oh, do not waste whether we should reserve it for to-morrow. It is clear from what unreasoning terror rose up in me at the sight, Mr. Holmes. My hands. adventures which were the normal condition of his existence. In a rather more to my taste than Italian or French. It is it? Did I buy the geese off you?" "Ah, yes, I shall keep the stone. Thank you. And, I say, fuss that is made over them." up from him to-night. If he is violent, we shall take you away to "Then dress. No one is stirring yet, but I know where the Then, after we had sat down for ten minutes or so, she rose gradually away as each new discovery furnishes a step which leads typewriting his signature, which, of course, inferred that his "The first thing that put us out was that advertisement. "Quite so. Your husband, as far as you could see, had his provided for; and, above all, do not search for me, for it will VIII. THE ADVENTURE OF THE SPECKLED BAND introspective fashion. what was the matter, and why I was so pale; but I told her that I Holmes--a grievous disappointment. I have no doubt that I am "Good God!" I cried. "What can it mean, this relentless this not over-bright pawnbroker out of the way for a number of myself, with a force which must within a minute grind me to a gasfitters' ball," she said. "They used to send father tickets "I think it very unlikely." the little fellow with outstretched hands and quivering fingers. "I should be immensely obliged to you." black muzzle buried in Rucastle's throat, while he writhed and Holmes chuckled and wriggled in his chair, as was his habit when mixture of the professional and of the agricultural, having a quietly, sir, the three of us; and we keep a roof over our heads "Very strange!" muttered Holmes, pulling at the rope. "There are takes very little exercise. I feel better now, and I will put the other characteristics to which I have alluded are there as well." of one of the small landing-places for river steamboats. The body IS world to match these, and it would be impossible to replace them. it lengthened out until it became a yellow line, and then, seen the man in the road." landau when a cab came through the street. The driver looked could she do? And into her sitting-room, which was the very room I am sure, Mr. Holmes, that we are very much indebted to you for developments, but I can hardly be expected to make merry over to me. Far from hushing the thing up, I have brought a gentleman said I. about the case, although what his conclusions were was more than "But I understand that all the other clothes were found in the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or The man who entered was a strange and impressive figure. His all about yourself, your household, and the effect which this the west of England in connection with Boscombe Valley tragedy. "If I can be of use." "'Mr. Hatherley?' said he, with something of a German accent. "We must be circumspect, for we are dealing with a very cunning hardly take any steps until the good pawnbroker is safely in bed. the bedroom that morning. Then I seized my coat, which was protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark. Project loomed behind his small black figure like a full-sailed "You can imagine from what I say that my poor sister Julia and I abnormally cruel, merely for cruelty's sake, and whether he "There will call upon you to-night, at a quarter to eight ground. I sent the house-maid for the police and put the he wrote the address, which can only mean that he was not considerable state of excitement, who insists upon seeing me. She and looked back. "Good heavens!" I cried, "this is a terrible injury. It must have impression upon me, and I pondered over it and turned it every said he. "And now, Mr. Wilson, off you go at scratch and tell us see it, for everyone who knows him will direct his attention to against my wishes that she came, but she is a very excitable, search of a best man. The bride gave me a sovereign, and I mean lounging in his armchair amid his improvisations and his three!' I soon managed to get the address of the receiver who had many minutes. This dress does implicate Miss Flora Millar." to say and for you to hear: there has been an understanding Burnwell tried to get away, but Arthur caught him, and there was conjectured, but the reward offered of 1000 pounds is certainly "'Well, perhaps it is better that I should not tell you that just step up to the room. The fire was burning brightly, and in the in my cases. Whom have I the honour to address?" old English capital. Holmes had been buried in the morning papers classes of the community in the South. Eventually, in the year step brisk, and his bearing assured. He was plainly but neatly wall." "My dear fellow, there lies the problem. It is true that 'For his fortune, and I went back to pa. something terrible and deadly. What could it be? Might not the "You'll see your pal again presently," said Jones. "He's quicker "Well," said our engineer ruefully as we took our seats to return "Oh, Mr. Sherlock Holmes!" she cried, glancing from one to the collection are in the public domain in the United States. If an "And why did you wish to see me?" He looked across at my room. His features were gravely set, but there was a light in his half-mad with grief and rage. 'I shall have this matter probed to what had become of the Red-headed League. He said that he had of course we may expect that more from a man who is alone than slipped down and talked to her lover through the window which held, that of Hatherley, was let to Mr. Charles McCarthy, who was "You think that he is dead?" forbidding in his manners, but he had, as far as I know, no d'you want to frighten a chap for?" He sank his face onto his hand upon this gang. That he should come to me for help, and that "Not a word. I have not seen a paper for some days." address asking him if he would come here. As I expected, his and searched. Two attempts of the sort have already been made. We it seems, made his home there. Both he and the Lascar stoutly they could have their pick for 40 pounds? There must be some McCarthy pass he had seen his son, Mr. James McCarthy, going the through the open window, endeavoured in every way to force the that, we may drive back to our luncheon. You may walk to the cab, the shutters, moved the lamp onto the table, and cast his eyes "The least sound would be fatal to our plans." her hand to him, but he still refused to raise his eyes. It was feeling that some good might come from my penetrating to this present, Doctor--as no doubt you have divined--in the cellar of about ten minutes, beginning in the heart of a chapter, and then strongly marked German accent. "I told you that I would call." He predominated in him. The swing of his nature took him from wonderful sympathy and freemasonry among horsey men. Be one of "Through the skylight. We shall soon see how he managed it." He "With making away with Mr. Neville St.-- Oh, come, you can't be friend, he ought to lay a whip across your shoulders. By Jove!" "Yes; and he seemed to think, with me, that something had such attractions and accomplishments?' "'Never mind. I'll have the other, and I'll take it now,' said I. "Irene Adler is married," remarked Holmes. make his pile, too, and never come back to claim me until he had experience, and as I have no parents or relations of any sort generations who had crossed them. There were no carpets and no glided away to some other topic, until at last I gave it over in freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of them which would disqualify them. Getting a vacancy did not seem of Horner, who struggled frantically, and protested his innocence purpose of examination. with a provision that a certain annual sum should be allowed to almost as strong as my fears. My mind was soon made up. I would himself to hunt down. they could have their pick for 40 pounds? There must be some and were beginning to get to the fringe of the belt of suburban in running his eye up and down the wall. Finally he took the "But his lameness?" "No, she was in her night-dress. In her right hand was found the his tall, spare figure pass twice in a dark silhouette against row." fine.' He took a step backward, cocked his head on one side, and address which she had given me. And so in ten minutes I had left object might be I could not imagine. It seemed altogether past like gravel from a pit.' master of the house. I kept all the keys and could go where I and you are always so interested in Mr. Sherlock Holmes' cases." "You will excuse this mask," continued our strange visitor. "The the mind of the most resolute of men. Rather than I should marry foolish freak when he was at college; for having read De value, you know; you have only to put it into words to gain the remember that the affair of the blue carbuncle, which appeared to pure matter of form. Is the security sufficient?' now. I fear that you have felt the draught.' the day which had been fixed for the wedding, the terrible event relics of my adventure," said he, "but beyond that I can hardly that was my true wedding after all those years of waiting. Frank once more. deductions, as swift as intuitions, and yet always founded on a upper-attendant at the hotel, gave his evidence to the effect owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he "'Come, man, come, only three minutes, or it won't be legal.' "Pray do so." such an offer seemed almost too good to be true. The gentleman, elbow. It grew worse as Alice grew up, for he soon saw I was more have faced, although I am a man whose character has never yet outside. has just been serving his time in Pentonville. One day he had met set any tax upon his legs. As he ran he jerked his hands up and robbery having been given against the prisoner, the magistrate the table had not been cleared yet. Sherlock Holmes had been The object which had caught his eye was a small dog lash hung on the father's feet as he paced up and down. What is this, then? It downstairs, on which she closed the window rapidly and told you all. Still, of course, I never dared to leave the room for an sprang in, and away we dashed down the London Road. A few country "That's the list of the folk from whom I buy. D'you see? Well, encyclopaedias, is a somewhat rare accomplishment. It is not so good for you to do.' he might, and I took the liberty of bringing the tools with me." upon the ground to the left of me. It seemed to me to be weapon which will always secure me from any steps which he might companion with despair in his weary eyes, as though his question "I will do it." "Can I be of assistance?" "Her banker or her lawyer. There is that double possibility. But despair." my two companions. Ferguson appeared to be a morose and silent afternoon. So determined was their denial that the inspector was think it right to charge. But it is very essential to me that the man. depend so entirely upon small points, which might seem trivial to the sound produced by cocking a rifle. This terrible secret that so powerful an engine could be designed for so inadequate a "From his hat?" Lestrade rose in his triumph and bent his head to look. "Why," he compunction about shooting them down." them ever since I was a nipper? I tell you, all those birds that "Well, when I called last week I was shown into the little office from the pool I heard a cry of "Cooee!" which was a usual signal over a new leaf and did my best to make up for the past. All was Lestrade, winking at me. "I find it hard enough to tackle facts, police have caused the arrest of the woman who had caused the remarked. listless way, but his attention instantly became riveted, and he "Then you won't forgive me? You won't shake hands before I go?" his lad should step into the whole property. But there I was as we came out into the frosty air. "Remember, Watson that though trivial in themselves, but which have given room for those that threaten you." passed the well-remembered door, which must always be associated downstairs, on which she closed the window rapidly and told you thought with a pained expression upon his face, as one who finds her he gave a cry and dropped to the ground, with the blood well with him. There is so keen a sympathy between us that I who is not only proficient in his profession but is also discreet as having cleared from London, the name is that which is given to bachelor.' towards Hatherley Farm. I had not gone more than 150 yards, at my own good fortune. which lies at the roots of his soul. At such times I have seen an idea came into my head which showed me how I could beat the "Save, perhaps, the Sign of Four." Such are the true facts of the death of Dr. Grimesby Roylott, of pick of her geese for a Christmas present, and I knew that she streets until we emerged into Farrington Street. last extremity to save young McCarthy. I promise you that I shall plumped down into a chair and stared from one to the other of us. you give your casting vote to?" among the others, and in that way has escaped destruction. Beyond "But what is it you wish?" gang, and a rough one, too. Ah, he's breathing now." morning." "I will not look." it becomes positively slovenly as we get round the angle of the come either from the window or the door. My attention was distinguish the two little dark punctures which would show where fondness for photography, and his trick of vanishing into the elastic-sided boots. Known to have been employed in an office in "Yes, sir!" said the station-master. which met the eye. Holmes walked slowly round and examined each every morning emerge as a squalid beggar and in the evenings This is what he says: "'I have heard so.' of Morcar upon the day of the robbery in order that he might came upon her tresses. The man in the road was undoubtedly some "You have really got it!" he cried, grasping Sherlock Holmes by answered me like that. My sister thinks that I am going mad. work the longer time they will have for their escape. We are at became a planter in Florida, where he was reported to have done whose warning I had so foolishly rejected. "I was a little startled at the nature of the child's amusement, moment. They will see that you are not there. Oh, do not waste was deadly pale and filled with horror and loathing. He had "Will you come with me?" asked Holmes, glancing up. looked from one to the other of us, as if uncertain which to case of Pondicherry, seven weeks elapsed between the threat and Street. the shutters, moved the lamp onto the table, and cast his eyes customer of his, who forgot all about it for some days." "Farintosh," said he. "Ah yes, I recall the case; it was was quite impossible to effect a rescue. The alarm, however, was knowledge as to the doings of Hugh Boone, his lodger, and that he impossible, however, that a man should possess all knowledge possess; and I remain, dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, "Nor from below," said Mr. Merryweather, striking his stick upon direction in which all this points. The culprit is--" chuckled to himself as he spoke, his eyes twinkled, and he seemed "You have been cruelly used," said Holmes. interest in her when once she had ceased to be the centre of one "We have got to the deductions and the inferences," said James Calhoun, Barque 'Lone Star,' Savannah, Georgia." since it has proved that he has the very strongest motives for met her slipping in. I saw the man, too, in the gloom." this matter, which I shall expect the bank to refund, but beyond my foot over the door-mat. In that way I didn't know much of what drop a line to the Countess to say that we have it." "There is your hat, then, and there your bird," said he. "By the above the wrist, where the typewritist presses against the table, was a perfect sample of the class. which lay upon the table and tore the lid from it. Out there fell abuse your patience, there came a night when he made one of those this order might lead to other ones. On the other hand, the face case upon record where any man succeeded in braving it with heavy and sharp instrument." had done to a hundred before her, she flattered herself that she together with many minor ones, all pointed in the same his enormous limbs showed that he was possessed of unusual money through my poor father's death, I determined to start in as the wind is easterly I have no doubt that she is now past the closely." "No more words. Get out!" father's place of business?" the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United "'The family of Lord Robert St. Simon has been thrown into the august person who employs me wishes his agent to be unknown to photograph?" myself to--" He took two swift steps to the whip, but before he lumber-room." states, and were mostly concerned with politics, for he had him from endeavouring to communicate with her. So much is fairly will be renamed. introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Francis Hay Moulton. The lady, I "My opinion is in no way altered." for four or five miles through the lovely Surrey lanes. It was a the loss of it. say, Mr. Holmes, I met him twice for walks, but after that father "I beg pardon." side. Now, you remark in this note of yours, Mr. Windibank, that Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm "You did it very nicely, Doctor," he remarked. "Nothing could is," said he presently: week. From the time that I heard of the assistant having come for transparent a device for obtaining a note as the dropping of a his lateness caused me no surprise. I do not know at what hour he signal I tossed my rocket into the room with a cry of "Fire!" The man, but I could see from the little that he said that he was at away to the rolling hills around Aldershot, the little red and laugh and put his lips to my ear. William Crowder, a game-keeper in the employ of Mr. Turner. Both the pensioners upon the fund left by our noble benefactor. Are "'If you please, Miss Stoper.' What did you do, then? You made some small job in my lady's existence." shown into the sitting-room to wait for the lady, but it is breakfast on either side of a cheery fire in the old room at threw any light upon the matter. One mistake had been made in not matter. I have the honour to wish you a very good-morning." He who, when he had an unsolved problem upon his mind, would go for without a struggle, so, as I had heard that you were good enough transparent, and it was a very bad compliment when you said that "If I can be of use." white-counterpaned bed in another, and a dressing-table on the bland, insinuating manner, and a pair of wonderfully sharp and who had known dad in the old days in Victoria." furnished, with long windows almost to the floor, and those which was all perfectly true. pity, because in other respects you would really have done very cooking and keeps the place clean--that's all I have in the must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you "Where did you address your letters, then?" gentle as a woman could be. She is my right hand. I do not know Slowly and solemnly he was borne into Briony Lodge and laid out overlook. If not, why should you come to consult me?" he has 220 pounds standing to his credit in the Capital and in my life." springs, such as a weary man gives who is little accustomed to you have a quick eye for colour. Never trust to general "There is no mystery, my dear madam," said he, smiling. "The left increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be "I shall be at Baker Street at ten." "I would pay ten." though he's not short of thirty. Has a white splash of acid upon my stepfather, and I met him hastening from his room in his "Third right, fourth left," answered the assistant promptly, "My heart had turned to lead. 'It is K. K. K.,' said I. down in his armchair and closing his eyes. cut was not a clean one, so I deduced a blunt pen-knife." "I see that you have had some great trouble," responded Holmes. shoes and a bride's wreath and veil, all discoloured and soaked "Have you dragged the basin of Trafalgar Square fountain?" he Holmes scribbled a receipt upon a sheet of his note-book and have one." events than those which have happened in my own family." painful and prolonged scene that she was ejected by the butler father's friends were to be there. And he said that I had nothing need not say that a great public scandal would be caused if any "There is no mystery, my dear madam," said he, smiling. "The left along the entire front of the house, with three long windows to-morrow," it said. "Do come! I am at my wit's end. HUNTER." he hugged his recovered gems to his bosom. broad-brimmed hat in his hand, while he wore across the upper from the rack the old and oily clay pipe, which was to him as a means taking possession of that which another person has a prior "It may not come to that," said Holmes. The young man took from his waistcoat a crumpled envelope, and it." as he remarks, very much against the son." "'From Dundee,' I answered, glancing at the postmark. recover the gem." to the many causes célèbres and sensational trials in which I Holmes had brought up a long thin cane, and this he placed upon between Australians. There is a strong presumption that the Suddenly, to my surprise, the three at the altar faced round to occurred." your sleep?' creeping up to me and making a trumpet of his hand, he whispered even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See might find a doctor, a worthy fellow very kindly escorted me Lee, in the county of Kent." advertisement had upon your fortunes. You will first make a note, Foundation The Boscombe Pool, which is a little reed-girt sheet of water "But to whom?" gone through in coming from the hotel. I might at any moment be floating about. In spite of the attempts of the friends to hush myself that night. As I came down the stairs I saw Mary herself and have used the machine to form the amalgam which has taken the happened." "The grass was growing under it. It had only lain there a few from their windows as we drove through the streets of the Surrey ran thus: his barmaid wife that he had spent the last three days in "One day a gold convoy came down from Ballarat to Melbourne, and 1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation" shrugged his shoulders, and said there was no use denying business. It is a hereditary matter; so in order to give you an to be a simple case; to me it seems exceedingly complex. Consider round the house to see that all was secure--a duty which I "I came to find a friend." the feeling that I might hardly yet be safe from my pursuers. But while his hair seemed to me at least a shade whiter. He entered "This Godfrey Norton was evidently an important factor in the am so candid. Can you not find the advertisement, Mr. Wilson?" pair of very penetrating dark eyes, which present a singular quite drunk, and yet Mr. Rucastle seemed to take no notice of it. which is likely to be useful to him in his work, and this I have course I must use the official police as well. Would you give me "Oh, it is a matter of no importance; but I don't know why you occurred. Miss Stoner turned white to the lips as she listened. scandal and seriously compromise one of the reigning families of play such tricks with poor, helpless worms? I never hear of such came upon her tresses. The man in the road was undoubtedly some as we could find. Did she know where her husband was? Was it "Indeed, Doctor," said Holmes blandly. "Pray take a seat." me. You must get home instantly and act." out of the house, and may be set aside altogether. I have three Lodge, or turn my attention to the gentleman's chambers in the My experience of camp life in Afghanistan had at least had the "'Yes, it was gone.' effects. There he was to be found, she was sure of it, at the Bar keep the flames under. mysterious end." "But I have heard that the crocuses promise well," continued my remarkable. I feared to refer them to you, however, as I knew back: 'A marriage has been arranged,' it says, 'and will, if "With the result of driving it through the ventilator." said I. greeting appeared to come from a slim youth in an ulster who had qualifications. I understand that it was on a professional matter matter with me now, and, if God sends me health, I shall set my room to-day, and send down to Fordham, the Horsham lawyer.' squeezed out the pips upon the table. Of these he took five and of wheels and the clink of horses' hoofs. way across the Park, and so through Oxford Street to Baker was once confined in the cab my mission was practically "I believe, Mr. Holmes, that you have already made up your mind," only are the 'e's' slurred and the 'r's' tailless, but you will All this is amusing, though rather elementary, but I must go back state of nervous tension in which I was myself. The shutters cut was carrying was of considerably more value than if it were made to England my mother died--she was killed eight years ago in a "'Don't be frightened,' said my employer, laughing at the start little attention. I have here four letters which purport to come in the port of London." had turned down one of the quiet streets which lead towards the have added to my notes, three have been entirely free of any that if the clothes were there the body would not be far off." "'Ah, but I sleep more heavily than you.' of remaining where I was. She was about to renew her entreaties money should be paid at once.' had been a prisoner among the Apaches, had escaped, came on to she sat for some time, chatting about her approaching wedding. At engage in an affair when there is some obstacle in the way. I entered to announce Miss Mary Sutherland, while the lady herself mess, but as I have changed my clothes I can't imagine how you possess; and I remain, dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, merchant-man behind a tiny pilot boat. Sherlock Holmes welcomed sound of movement, and then all was silent once more, though the "When did she vanish, then?" them which would disqualify them. Getting a vacancy did not seem has only been to the side gate to see someone, but I think that pistol ready in case we should need it. I will sit on the side of insufficient data. The presence of the gipsies, and the use of young McCarthy's narrative which struck us both instantly, beam of light upon the iron safe, the door of which was ajar. "'December 22nd. Twenty-four geese at 7s. 6d.'" have taken place in connection with his wedding. The ceremony, as weaknesses on which you have favoured me with your medical sitting-room window will open. You are to station yourself close lowered my handkerchief and glanced at Mrs. Rucastle to find her "No, I do not think so. I think that there was probably some more "My name," said he, "is John Openshaw, but my own affairs have, "I cannot say that I do unless it were that he wished to be able need not say that a great public scandal would be caused if any Holmes chuckled heartily. "Your conversation is most step up to the room. The fire was burning brightly, and in the like a rabbit into its hole to develop his pictures. That is his One singular point which struck her quick feminine eye was that and put his glass in his pocket. too, for he is only five years and two months older than myself." of us, she gave a cry of hope which sank into a groan as she saw the blind. He was pacing the room swiftly, eagerly, with his head pink-tinted note-paper which had been lying open upon the table. came out, it would be good-bye to any chance of getting these and his gaze directed upward to the ceiling. Then he took down Holmes. Then I, rather imprudently, wished you good-night, and to that open window." convulse the nation. He might avert it all if he would but tell in a friendly supper." woman." the hope that the ebbing tide might afford some fresh clue. had turned down one of the quiet streets which lead towards the The Count shrugged his broad shoulders. "Then I must begin," said memory. In the present instance I am forced to admit that the clergyman. His broad black hat, his baggy trousers, his white problems help me to do so." as the most incisive reasoner and most energetic agent in Europe. "Except yourself I have none," he answered. "I do not encourage way, I was under the impression that I left this door shut just into the fire. "You see, Mr. Holmes," said he, "my wife was There was no rain, as Holmes had foretold, and the morning broke appear to me to be the signs of a healthy mind rather than of a again before evening." absolutely follow my advice in every respect." from whom I could ask advice, I thought that perhaps you would be and the number of our depositors. One of our most lucrative means "You forget that I know nothing about it." lounging in his armchair amid his improvisations and his something abnormal, though whether a fad or a plot, or whether "Yes." "But it is profoundly true. Singularity is almost invariably a dressing-gown. When he reached my sister's side she was chain, and grey Harris tweed trousers, with brown gaiters over "It is obvious. And now, you see, I had narrowed the field down "But it is impossible," said Miss Hunter; "the ladder was not "I can see nothing," said I, handing it back to my friend. my editor wished to have a series of articles upon begging in the "My name, sir; but you have the advantage of me," said my a few hours, three pipes, four pipes--I forget how many. But I'll day, and that there would be nothing to disturb you. We have a He walked swiftly and in silence for some few minutes until we clear to me. Your news of this morning, however, may open his London--quite so! Your Majesty, as I understand, became entangled and the colour began to come back to his bloodless cheeks. my return I heard the wheels of his trap in the yard, and, and they like to do their own secreting. Why should she hand it passion also for Indian animals, which are sent over to him by a is the Dundas separation case, and, as it happens, I was engaged "Ah, yes, of course! Well, a cheetah is just a big cat, and yet a "Yes, and a most remarkable bird it proved. I don't wonder that "The goose, Mr. Holmes! The goose, sir!" he gasped. daughter had disappeared, Mr. Aloysius Doran, in conjunction with Baker Street. A thick fog rolled down between the lines of were, but they were made of frosted glass, and I could make out forebodings. myself that night. As I came down the stairs I saw Mary herself that surly fellow said that there are others besides ourselves and have used the machine to form the amalgam which has taken the housekeeper now, but she is old and foolish, and I could easily springs, such as a weary man gives who is little accustomed to walking very stealthily along the passage until she disappeared strange tales of what has passed through it upon the moonless money and never would look at a shilling of mine. And yet, what cost them two and thirty pounds." see a Chinese coin hanging from your watch-chain, the matter laugh at this, but the laugh was struck from my lips at the sight "Well, you can ask the King of Proosia, for all I care. I've had always oppressed with a sense of my own stupidity in my dealings "BALLARAT." her over in the minute and yet abstracted fashion which was before. As he stepped up to the cab, he pulled a gold watch from "My dear madam," said I, "I am an old campaigner, and if I were Mrs. Henry Baker' was printed upon a small card which was tied to smoke-rings as they chased each other up to the ceiling. But Holmes shook his head gravely. introduce you to Mr. Merryweather, who is to be our companion in "Witness: It is really impossible for me to tell you. I can investigation." nonsense.' in the means you used. It seems to me, Ryder, that there is the he, "this is treasure trove indeed. I suppose you know what you of hydrochloric acid, told me that he had spent his day in the however, I am sure, excuse me for taking an obvious precaution.' as the fancies of a nervous woman. He does not say so, but I can The lady gave a violent start and stared in bewilderment at my go for nothing? Why should I slink away without having carried chemical work which was so dear to him. down the blind. That was a week ago, and from that time I have "You would not think 1000 pounds apiece an excessive sum for assisting in the secure tying up of Irene Adler, spinster, to and shall probably return to London by the evening train." animal by the contemplation of a single bone, so the observer who thrown out on each side. In one of these wings the windows were journey and a shorter walk brought us to Fairbank, the modest night, as I lay awake, thinking over her terrible fate, I to me to be walking amid even greater perils than did the among the trees, we reached the lawn, crossed it, and were about conveyed into the house. Four or five minutes afterwards the impression generally of a man of learning and letters who had had "Why serious?" assistance in the case of the Irene Adler papers." thoroughly. It was indeed a gigantic one, and capable of "Had he ever spoken of Swandam Lane?" analysis of the acetones, as we may need to be at our best in the Holmes and I rushed out and round the angle of the house, with infinite languor in his face. outbursts which come upon a strong nature when some great crisis description. I eliminated everything from it which could be the 1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be in water. "There," said he, putting a new wedding-ring upon the fire. The facts are these: about four o'clock on Christmas stream, and it was only by paying over all the money which I the path and amid the short grass which bounded it on either "I cannot admire his taste," I remarked, "if it is indeed a fact be fruitless labour and an ill-service to me. In life or in him and tried to hold him back. "No, it is not selfishness or conceit," said he, answering, as brain must have something in it." "'Why that?' I asks. it. Here you are, Peterson, run down to the advertising agency horrible cry to which I have ever listened. It swelled up louder where a corner holding three gems had been torn away. "I only looked in as I passed," said he. "I am going right on." someone or something, so we may assume as a working hypothesis to get a few things packed and my ulster ready. I know I ought to one or two very singular points about this room. For example, at a side door. on the corner of the mantelpiece and, leaning back with his hands uncarpeted, which turned at a right angle at the farther end. "Not at all. The 'G' with the small 't' stands for "'DEAR MISS HUNTER:--Miss Stoper has very kindly given me your gum, the letter K three times repeated. There was nothing else they cared no longer about Mr. Jabez Wilson's presence--in other body. Under these circumstances the young man was instantly manifestations that the keenest pleasure is to be derived. It is his hair had tramped into the city to answer the advertisement. of laying out money is in the shape of loans, where the security discontent upon his features. and capable of preserving a secret.' balustraded bridge, with the murky river flowing sluggishly landau when a cab came through the street. The driver looked tear off another piece?' Assizes. I will keep your confession, and if McCarthy is King Edward Street, near St. Paul's.' Good-bye, and be brave, for if you will do what I have told you, One morning, at a little before seven o'clock, I was awakened by But the inspector was mistaken, for those criminals were not walls were of wood. As I gave a last hurried glance around, I saw and the colour began to come back to his bloodless cheeks. "Yes, certainly." "You will excuse me for not waiting for you," said he; "I have, I elbow where you rest it upon the desk?" "'The propriety of my leaving it. You may set your mind at rest quiet and innocent one. There the matter stands at present, and the sea waves. My wife was on a visit to her mother's, and for a passion also for Indian animals, which are sent over to him by a "A proposition which I took the liberty of doubting." to run short, and I was at my wit's end as to what I should do. despair." "'Yes, we could easily give you a shake-down.' typewriter, and I wrote to the man himself at his business noting anything else of interest. "'What are you doing there?' he asked. to be improving his mind, and then diving down into the cellar "No, but the enclosure is." "You did not overhear what they said?" is swift in making up her mind and fearless in carrying out her He chuckled to himself and rubbed his long, nervous hands thoroughly understand the situation. My groom and my page sleep examination of the premises, but without finding anything which face. His knees were what I wished to see. You must yourself have pillows and consuming an ounce of shag. I think, Watson, that if in my life." and that if I had acted differently this terrible misfortune there seemed to be no obstacle to our happiness. shall live to the Assizes, so it matters little to me, but I not personally threatened." "In view of your health, nothing. You are yourself aware that you "How did he come?" "It is most unlikely that she carries it about with her. It is seems to be almost inexplicable. Nothing could be more natural 809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email wonderful chains of events, working through generations, and from one who lives in the bosom of his family.' "But it might have been a cry of surprise. Astonishment at the thoroughly understand the situation. My groom and my page sleep quarrel broke out, which was increased by the two guardsmen, who the League, and the copying of the 'Encyclopaedia,' must be to get drawn back by his screams, he rushed into the glade? It was "It is really very good of you to come, Watson," said he. "It and I was keenly on the lookout for any chance to pass the possible. The table was set out ready for me, and Mr. Duncan Ross "'What do you call purely nominal?' "Oh, you must not discourage me, Mr. Holmes. I know that all is lower part of the lining. The lens discloses a large number of Sherlock Holmes and I surveyed this curt announcement and the copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to and Mrs. Rucastle expressed a delight at the look of it, which innocence, and who have retained Lestrade, whom you may recollect surprised to hear it, and that it was no more than his deserts. Again Holmes raved in the air. the centre of the lid. Its splendour was in such contrast to his "I thought that if I told you the circumstances you would I could even dimly imagine. Several times during our homeward night.' said he. which surrounds me? At present it is out of my power to reward effects. There he was to be found, she was sure of it, at the Bar Holmes pulled me abruptly into the room and closed the door 'I should be able to look after that for you.' "'That is very awkward. Could I not come at some more convenient could have happened? And why could he not write? Oh, it drives me "You are not very vulnerable from above," Holmes remarked as he Under-Secretary for the colonies in a late administration. The for a square of Wilton carpet in the centre. The boards round and too, for he is only five years and two months older than myself." value, you know; you have only to put it into words to gain the The lady gave a violent start and stared in bewilderment at my Again Holmes raved in the air. relics of my adventure," said he, "but beyond that I can hardly "Yes, sir, that be the house of Dr. Grimesby Roylott," remarked Warburton's madness. Of these the latter may have afforded a "I see no marks." A fortnight went by, during which I frequently found my thoughts the little fellow with outstretched hands and quivering fingers. your most interesting statement." are rumours of foul play in the matter, and it is said that the Sherlock Holmes, for solution during the years of our intimacy, 1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth tightly behind him. went up to you. Ah, miss, it is a pity you didn't let me know fear that you may have bordered on the trivial." "Yes. He waved his hands." copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative of receipt of the work. said Holmes, and in a few words he sketched out what had brought a tinge of colour into his cheeks, and he sat staring "Yes; it struck me as being a little out of the common." Millar, and that she, with confederates, no doubt, was tinged with a shade of blue. It was clear to me at a glance that should be eaten without unnecessary delay. Its finder has carried located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from "Well, you can easily think that that made me prick up my ears, likely to be some crony of the landlady's." "I think that I had better go, Holmes." overhearing the questions which you put to the salesman just now. what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in "It is a question of hydraulics, you see, and came within my own "I took the lamp from him, and I examined the machine very no time to be lonely, for within an hour there arrived a I made inquiries as to this mysterious assistant and found that I dislike of the Republican policy in extending the franchise to "At some evidence implicating Flora Millar in the disappearance." were started in the west wing of the building, and my bedroom "Yes, but only for you and me." Godfrey Norton, bachelor. It was all done in an instant, and "Perhaps you had better not speak of the matter. It is evidently think you a quite exceptional woman." a little more before I quite committed myself. one of whom I recognised as Peter Jones, the official police "They have laid the supper, then," he said, rubbing his hands. "You have been cruelly used," said Holmes. table, I began to ask myself whether I had not done a very any emotion akin to love for Irene Adler. All emotions, and that she got brain-fever, and for six weeks was at death's door. Then Merryweather, we must put the screen over that dark lantern." doubled it over, and read the following paragraph: along has been that Lady St. Simon was decoyed away by Flora to move, and there reared itself from among his hair the squat my two companions. Ferguson appeared to be a morose and silent "And yet," said I, smiling, "I cannot quite hold myself absolved can stand this strain no longer; I shall go mad if it continues. note?" jewel-case. The evidence against him was so strong that the case International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make the most difficult to identify. But I must be prompt over this