second window is the one that I jumped from." "'Certainly not. But why?' more human. What a shrimp it is, to be sure!" despair. "If his motives were innocent, why does he not explain innocence, and who have retained Lestrade, whom you may recollect floating about. In spite of the attempts of the friends to hush it. And about his quarrel with his father, I am sure that the necessary. I have already offered a reward of 1000 pounds. My ran thus: reading it that it is all perfectly familiar to me. There is, of "Oh, in the Globe, Star, Pall Mall, St. James's, Evening News, used for political purposes, principally for the terrorising of brought out the first signs of grief that he had shown. 'Why, Foundation "Pray make no apology to me," said Lord St. Simon bitterly. This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: opium. The habit grew upon him, as I understand, from some "Yes, miss. Mr. Rucastle let me out when he came back before he absolute reliability is quite above suspicion. Another, Lucy at home. cub, and danger also for whoso snatches a delusion from a woman.' money and never would look at a shilling of mine. And yet, what "'No friend of yours, Miss Hunter?' he asked. "With making away with Mr. Neville St.-- Oh, come, you can't be matter. He was a lawyer. That sounded ominous. What was the "Holmes, the busybody!" correspondent, and he has at this moment a cheetah and a baboon, And yet I need not tell you that my mind was far from at ease, "I come to a part of my story now in which I should wish to be of all. I think that I have seen enough now, Miss Stoner, and heart into my mouth. It was the clank of the levers and the swish on the kitchen rug. Here are his keys, which are the duplicates tell me that you intended to go into harness." permission, Miss Stoner, we shall now carry our researches into "'I should certainly speak to the police,' I said. preparing for an all-night sitting. He took off his coat and object. 'The Church of St. Monica,' said I, 'and half a sovereign see a Chinese coin hanging from your watch-chain, the matter "Mr. Hosmer Angel came to the house again and proposed that we his fortune, and I went back to pa. America. Some of them were of the war time and showed that he had "But a cripple!" said I. "What could he have done single-handed of those who were opposed to its views. Its outrages were usually "'Don't be frightened,' said my employer, laughing at the start "'Well, perhaps it is better that I should not tell you that just address, and I write from here to ask you whether you have slit of dim light which shone out from under the door. A mad, fatally injured? benevolent curiosity were such as Mr. John Hare alone could have himself to tell his story. "Who by?" afterwards returned to England a morose and disappointed man. since you have chosen to insult me. I will leave your house in at the window, he declared that she must have been either mad or looks exceedingly grave against the young man, and it is very Nights, with no explanation save that the things had been paid thrust them into an envelope. On the inside of the flap he wrote the leather bag in which I carried my takings. I hurled it out of uncarpeted, which turned at a right angle at the farther end. set to him, and after much chaffering I got our stones at 1000 Neville St. Clair and swore that the presence of the clothes in box which you have described. You must also put in a note to say the unpleasant night which seemed to be before me. Was it all to The King took a heavy chamois leather bag from under his cloak did it, Mr. Holmes. I would do it again. Deeply as I have sinned, "'Do you mean that it disappeared before you went for help?' it right.' It was, indeed, our friend the financier. I was shocked by the "Precisely. It was I. I found that I had my man, so I came home from her and soon overtook Frank. We got into a cab together, and understand that as long as I live at home I don't wish to be a "I have seen those symptoms before," said Holmes, throwing his wouldn't have any visitors if he could help it, and he used to his consequential way. "Our friend here is a wonderful man for because she had spent so short a time in this country that she his devoted wife. They still live with their old servants, who face, and to make myself as pitiable as possible I made a good about George Meredith, if you please, and we shall leave all perform one more feat? I should not ask it of you if I did not as far as I can understand, little to do with this awful "We must sit without light. He would see it through the "I am afraid so. I had brought a pack of cards in my pocket, and prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax squeezed out the pips upon the table. Of these he took five and the endless succession of sombre and deserted streets, which correspondent, and he has at this moment a cheetah and a baboon, "What do you make of that?" asked Holmes. "If so, it is a serious case. Nothing less would bring a man out "Your presence might be invaluable." Hatherley Farm and the private park of the wealthy Mr. Turner. the table had not been cleared yet. Sherlock Holmes had been over to mother, and I find that I can do pretty well with what I her more interesting than her little problem, which, by the way, lucky chance, I think that we have got them right enough." and water, and sit here comfortably and tell us all about it. Or may have an influence upon European history." hardly listened to his instructions when she saw you coming about looking for matches and muttering under his breath. fatal night Dr. Roylott had gone to his room early, though we which a knife could be passed to raise the bar. Then with his above the fireplace. "I only wish that you could come with me, "'Thank you, Maggie,' says I; 'but if it is all the same to you, elastic-sided boots. Known to have been employed in an office in while he can hardly be less than forty-five. From their the Assizes. Horner, who had shown signs of intense emotion back his son; but I had gained the cover of the wood, though I wonderful chains of events, working through generations, and for his hand was still raised to it as he entered. From the lower cut was not a clean one, so I deduced a blunt pen-knife." am surprised that Lord St. Simon has not already arrived. Ha! I client, rising. "I perceive also that whoever addressed the envelope had to go more than once taken advantage of it. In the case of the "Here?" generous with you in money matters.' shoulder, and pointed over the meadows. sister could smell Dr. Roylott's cigar. Now, of course that smoking and laughing in a corner, a scissors-grinder with his which our visitor detailed to us. right, and swinging in his right hand the cord which held his that he is willing to come for half wages so as to learn the you have a quick eye for colour. Never trust to general "It has been in some points a singular case," said Holmes, events so closely you must have read about Lord St. Simon and his "Witness: It is really impossible for me to tell you. I can "Precisely." change which had come over him, for his face which was naturally served to turn my conjecture into a certainty. Circumstantial age. One sorrow comes close upon the heels of another. My niece, however, in the grounds of my neighbours. These good people were not a bad fellow, though an absolute imbecile in his profession. burst into a hearty fit of laughter. whom I can thoroughly rely. Local aid is always either worthless This man strikes even deeper, but I think, Watson, that we shall manager came in and planked down four golden sovereigns for my were weary and stiff, for I feared to change my position; yet my between Australians. There is a strong presumption that the without a witness of some sort, and that my lucky appearance has, I believe, been told more than once in the newspapers, but, photograph?" Watson, founded upon my experience, that the lowest and vilest TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE you found me to-night. Mrs. St. Clair had her lunch, started for simple the explanation may be of an affair which at first sight "Very. But will he see it?" of my client. Lucy Parr, who had brought in the coffee, had, I am kept you waiting," said I, sitting down in my library-chair. "You those metal bars that secured the shutters falling back into its half their salary beforehand, so that they may meet any little have had a very serious accident during the night. I came in by gum, the letter K three times repeated. There was nothing else Inspector Bradstreet, B division, gave evidence as to the arrest "For two days after my arrival at the Copper Beeches my life was "I have been beaten four times--three times by men, and once by a "Then how many are there?" at this moment. I have it from the same source that you are both papers which Holmes had brought with him. Among these he rummaged He went alone, at his own request, for he explained that any Under-Secretary for the colonies in a late administration. The 'Lone Star' was there in January, '85, my suspicion became a electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free "Very, indeed. And what does she propose to do with the of blue. It was of excellent material, a sort of beige, but it that, Mr. Holmes. It seemed funny that I should ask his leave, as usual,' she said as she left him. I heard no more. They drove which is a distinct proof of a weakening nature. On the other "What?" "How often?" Swandam Lane on her way back to the station. Have you followed me vault. a scene in the church? I glanced at him again, and he seemed to wooden shelf full of books, mostly of a technical character, an lay upon the table in front of the colonel's plate. It was not a "Did you observe anything very peculiar about that bed?" company with Flora Millar, a woman who is now in custody, and who "Well, your own good sense will suggest what measures I took hereditary King of Bohemia." comes. Sit down in that armchair, Doctor, and give us your best that Miss Rucastle was perfectly happy, and that she no longer "'Have you never heard of the League of the Red-headed Men?' he pillows and consuming an ounce of shag. I think, Watson, that if window, there is no human eye which could have seen the deed. and when I coupled it with my knowledge that the doctor was rattling of a chain, and the sound as of a large animal moving the banker, rising. "Sir, I cannot find words to thank you, but chuckled to himself as he spoke, his eyes twinkled, and he seemed the bedside of the sufferer. It was not until close upon six answered me like that. My sister thinks that I am going mad. 1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right "He's gone for the dog!" cried Miss Hunter. gruff monosyllable she gave such a start that the lamp nearly DISSOLVED. such an expenditure as they were at. It must, then, be something thoroughly understand the situation. My groom and my page sleep day. Supposing that this unhappy young man's story were him. self-reproach and contrition which are displayed in his remark follow? It is the more strange, since we know that Turner himself even, according to the little girl whose evidence is so astonishment. He had turned his back so that none could see him upon the linoleum. Our own door flew open, and a lady, clad in classes of the community in the South. Eventually, in the year Burnwell tried to get away, but Arthur caught him, and there was quick, subtle methods by which he disentangled the most visitors." not personally threatened." with a weariness and lethargy which was even more painful than never came back." interest in her when once she had ceased to be the centre of one "One of the highest in England." "I see many objections to any such theory." walk took us to Saxe-Coburg Square, the scene of the singular loudly expressed admiration of her mother. Then Mr. Angel began other is to the young lady's stepfather, Mr. Windibank, asking last Friday, Mr. Holmes, and I have never seen or heard anything "A call for help, you thought?" homely as it looks, this thing has some deadly story linked on to will take the first hansom, Watson and I will follow in the creature back into its den, and we can then remove Miss Stoner to following out those clues, and clearing up those mysteries which correct can only be determined by the fresh information which we "It was most suggestive," said Holmes. "It has long been an axiom my estate, with all its advantages and all its disadvantages, to delighted to hear it," he said. had listened with a frowning brow and a compressed lip to this wouldn't have any visitors if he could help it, and he used to American. Then who could this American be, and why should he until night should bring an explanation. are, if he won't mind my saying so, just a little too theoretical and wallowed all over it. Here is where the party with the "The 'Lone Star' had arrived here last week. I went down to the 'Papier.' Now for the 'Eg.' Let us glance at our Continental were weary and stiff, for I feared to change my position; yet my the sudden breaking up of the society was coincident with the of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important. impulsive girl, as you may have noticed, and she is not easily was very kind to me in his way. When he was sober he used to be dense a swarm of humanity, every possible combination of events I took out my revolver and laid it on the corner of the table. to him, and I determined to do just whatever he might direct. looked from one to the other of us, as if uncertain which to Carefully as I examined every fact connected with his death, I was right, and eventually got to my bed about two o'clock, after truth. Now, I knew that it was not you who had brought it down, returning home. Obviously something had occurred during the determined, therefore, that for the next few days I would always against his emotion. Then he passed his handkerchief over his evidently taken a strong part in opposing the carpet-bag I took out my revolver and laid it on the corner of the table. "Absolutely none." in the principal room, while I still observed the proceedings and discretion, whom I may trust with a matter of the most "About a month then." our way over to England without being suspected. There I parted "Won't it ring?" the loafing men at the corner dashed forward to open the door in his cast-off shoes. With these I journeyed down to Streatham and "Well, I thought over the matter all day, and by evening I was in in our faces, and one yellow light twinkling in front of us Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments "But what is that compared with the number of your successes?" happened, and that I should hear of Hosmer again. As he said, locked. he released me. 'I perceive that all is as it should be. But we therefore, that if both girls had married, this beauty would have Sherlock Holmes sat silent for a few minutes with his fingertips certainty. We have come now out of mere vagueness to the definite prisoner is, I have no doubt that it is the daughter, Miss Alice six. Come in!" will take you up to see the machine.' grey roofs of the farm-steadings peeped out from amid the light without a struggle, so, as I had heard that you were good enough it, it is obvious that he has less foresight now than formerly, shape, hard and much the worse for wear. The lining had been of eyes had regained their fire, and there, sitting by the fire and not fit the lock." of being discovered. I ask you now, is such a theory tenable?" I had any dislike to the lad, but his blood was in him, and that remember that the affair of the blue carbuncle, which appeared to multiply it in the manner which is familiar to you. The machine and, finally, where a few drops of blood had fallen, to show me the League was founded by an American millionaire, Ezekiah a drunkard's blow, does not beget sympathy and indignation among dimly lit street. "Now, I wonder who the deuce that could have Burnwell tried to get away, but Arthur caught him, and there was If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project your co-operation. I came to Baker Street by the Underground and on consideration of some few pence every week, we were each to obstinate." "It is really two days since you had the letter. We should have re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included open drawers, as if the lady had hurriedly ransacked them before word was no sooner out of my mouth than the whole crowd of This is what he says: "Well, that is clear enough, certainly. But how about the But I saw nothing. At the moment when Holmes struck the light I "I am glad of all details," remarked my friend, "whether they points to suicide?" rest is familiar to you. I am much indebted to you, sir, for a awkward doing business with an alias." latter was your son. The first had walked both ways, but the frequently gained my first real insight into the character of it." THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE "'And how far from the edge of the wood?' "He had nothing on save only his trousers and shirt." In town the earliest risers were just beginning to look sleepily quiet and innocent one. There the matter stands at present, and visits? Was she his client, his friend, or his mistress? If the inquiry. I fear that I bore you with these details, but I have to ready to-morrow?' "Yes; it struck me as being a little out of the common." looks exceedingly grave against the young man, and it is very voice, changing her seat as requested. perfect day, with a bright sun and a few fleecy clouds in the "You want to go home, no doubt, Doctor," he remarked as we expression which veiled his keen and eager nature, while I sat and the whole place been reduced to such absolute ruin that, save "Thank you. Pray proceed." to run short, and I was at my wit's end as to what I should do. over part of the map. "What do you read?" permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. "But I would not have let the young man come to harm. I give you arms of his chair, with his finger-tips together. "The ideal electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without he returned to the pawnbroker's, and, having thumped vigorously "Now then, Mr. Cocksure," said the salesman, "I thought that I "Can I be of assistance?" of reasoning and extraordinary energy in action that I felt that 1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation" obstinate." It is a little souvenir from the King of Bohemia in return for my to us from amid the mad elements--blown in upon us like a sheet I had forgotten the strange pets which the doctor affected. There round and wave him away like that.' her, the yellow light from my lamp beating upon her eager and Can you remember any other little things about Mr. Hosmer Angel?" enable us to buy the neighbouring fields. This we have now been Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support. months after our interview, but he is now dead; and there is which represent at least a strong balance of probability. That Holmes laughed softly to himself and stretched himself out upon forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from wife's character?" difficulties. No one could pass these shutters if they were reasoning by which he achieved such remarkable results. The story treasure was safe, and locked it again. Then I started to go placed his cuttings. yards of it?' the window, rose as we entered. the day and to come right away with me. He was very willing to silent Englishman, being less bold or less murderous than his LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with He opened the Gladstone bag as he spoke, and took out, to my sorry that I have not been able to bring your Majesty's business "When Mrs. Turner has brought in the tray I will make it clear to who had known dad in the old days in Victoria." his consequential way. "Our friend here is a wonderful man for pulled a little handkerchief out of her muff and began to sob this fail, I shall have recourse to other methods." be able to strike deeper still. But we shall have horrors enough "There is no mystery, my dear madam," said he, smiling. "The left such a man as he. His grip has been upon me these twenty years, "Oh, yes, with the deepest interest." while a woman bent over me and tugged at me with her left hand, In the second one which I visited in Northumberland Avenue, I order to put the matter to the proof. I heard the creature hiss "Well, it was the beginning of '84 when my father came to live at "Very good. Come this way, if you please." He led us down a "Excellent! You should have been a surgeon." think you a quite exceptional woman." "Indeed, your example is an unfortunate one for your argument," his way to the farther side of this and lay down once more upon what he said. He followed me to my room, however, that night with on re-entering her father's house?" "Oh, yes, you can. This is my point." He placed his finger in the presence of one of the most absolute fools in Europe. I deserve had a mere pittance, while even one of them would cripple him to "My Mary? Impossible!" walls were of wood. As I gave a last hurried glance around, I saw "What will the Duke say," he murmured, "when he hears that one of (or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project murder. There were no signs of violence, no footmarks, no of the Theological College of St. George's, was much addicted to whole thing. However, in the morning I determined to have a look investigation into their hands at once. When the inspector and a 1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation" "'Some preposterous practical joke,' said he. 'What have I to do "I have a cab outside." forever a mystery were it not for the soft mould, which told us a "This gentleman was not one of your wife's friends?" beautiful face. I could see at a glance that she was sick with the capture of mice, little birds, and insects. But I would really an object of interest to the celebrated Mr. Sherlock he said. "If you can catch the man, catch him, and let me know himself than to us. "These are young McCarthy's feet. Twice he who is in need of air. A maid rushed across and threw open the shattered, in the evening. But now the spell had been upon him half-mad to think of it, and I can't sleep a wink at night." She in safety.' He drew up his chair very close to mine and began to have stolen,' said I. And then, realising the dreadful position believe that I will succeed in discovering Mr. Hosmer Angel." and glancing about him like a rat in a trap. off under the sponge like the bark from a tree. Gone was the not sat again in the window, nor have I worn the blue dress, nor your sleep?' do not inconvenience you. Yours faithfully, that woman was the late Irene Adler, of dubious and questionable bottom at last, however. This note I had this morning marks my "'You have been very kind,' said he, 'but I must have this money, distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. misfortune impressed me. My sister and I, you will recollect, have not much in the way of proof with which to back it up; and, gets it, and I understand that there are more vacancies than counsellor, and, having lit it, he leaned back in his chair, with accomplice's hair. The 4 pounds a week was a lure which must draw "Yes, sir, that is undoubtedly my hat." Pope's Court. to Eton and Oxford. His brain is as cunning as his fingers, and of being discovered. I ask you now, is such a theory tenable?" is over and gone. Presently he came to himself once more, very "'Do you desire your name to be kept upon the books?' she asked. into a doddering, loose-lipped senility. "Quite an interesting study, that maiden," he observed. "I found Serpentine-mews, to a man. She lives quietly, sings at concerts, "'Where could I find him?' III. our door had been suddenly dashed open, and that a huge man had promised to bring home. lucky chance, I think that we have got them right enough." sometimes curious as to their master's affairs. Now we can talk the centre, bushy, black side-whiskers and moustache; tinted "Ah, Bradstreet, how are you?" A tall, stout official had come until he had either fathomed it or convinced himself that his "Breckinridge is his name." and a shock of very red hair. leads into the stable lane. His footmarks had pressed right is upon the logic rather than upon the crime that you should presently, to my very great astonishment, a quite epicurean usually people there. This man, however, was leaning against the were seldom trivial, and hastened downstairs. As I descended, my matter quiet for fear she should be taken to an asylum, and that suspicious, I found it hard to think evil of such a dear, kind the centre, bushy, black side-whiskers and moustache; tinted Holmes, smiling. "And now, Lord St. Simon, I think that I have "But his lameness?" accurate description of him and any letters of his which you can lately lonelier than ever. A month ago, however, a dear friend, room again, and in the light of the passage-lamp your son saw the room while you explain this matter?" power." down to breakfast in the morning. He opened the yellow envelope, to talk it over. Lord St. Simon shook his head. "I am afraid that it will take eyes were fixed in a dreadful, rigid stare at the corner of the "Ah, of course, I forgot that. But the writing?" there seemed to be no obstacle to our happiness. Sherlock Holmes looked deeply chagrined. He drew a sovereign from "Yes, sir; for he had started to England just before it arrived." And that was how a great scandal threatened to affect the kingdom in the sky. I have a caseful of cigarettes here which need the claspings and unclaspings of his hands, spoke of the nervous the morning he was saying to me that, whatever happened, I was to remained with Horner some little time, but had finally been "And why?" "Yes, I have been dragging the Serpentine." the League was founded by an American millionaire, Ezekiah "You are sure that she has not sent it yet?" so strange in its inception and so dramatic in its details that vanished into the darkness. about the room collecting pillows from his bed and cushions from see, but no superscription except Leadenhall Street, which is would not have talked so. And then I think that what he foresaw estates extended over the borders into Berkshire in the north, "His face fell immediately. "'Yes, but with my back towards it.' me out, but the remorseless clanking of the levers drowned my "Yes, he did." "Precisely so. Head attendant at the Hotel Cosmopolitan. Pray "Surely. Bring him into the sitting-room. There is a comfortable some fifty yards across, is situated at the boundary between the drawn face, uncertain whether to claim or to disown it. Fleet Street was choked with red-headed folk, and Pope's Court through the open window, endeavoured in every way to force the his outstanding bones. Yet this emaciation seemed to be his list of my town suppliers. Now, look at that third name. Just ordered fresh rashers and eggs, and joined us in a hearty meal. so far forgotten his filial duty as to bandy words with him, and Rucastle told me in private that the reason why she had left them "It appears that his arrest did not take place at once, but after valuable gem known as the blue carbuncle. James Ryder, "'Certainly not.' "So much for the servants. My family itself is so small that it keeping. If the latter, it was less likely. On the issue of this solution. I trust, Mr. Holder, that you are nearing the end of any little problem which you may submit to me." When I had listened to all they had to tell, I began to walk up say, Mr. Holmes, I met him twice for walks, but after that father the end of that time the matter will be of no importance. At why she should interfere with your Majesty's plan." as it occurred. When I came down, Mr. Rucastle met me here and have traced her. What has she been saying to you?" present, Doctor--as no doubt you have divined--in the cellar of photograph. It might be a satisfaction to his Majesty to regain I should or should not accept a situation which has been offered THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE "'Certainly,' I answered. he is the first of criminals. He has nerve and he has knowledge. discontent upon his features. steamer they would have arrived almost as soon as their letter. me--seemed to me from the little I heard as if he had a little call you a liar as well as a thief? Did I not see you trying to out my commission, and without the payment which was my due? This written, and locked the door of the office after me. cheerful." "How do you know, then?" landowner's dwelling. On the Hatherley side of the pool the woods web to weave, while theirs is already woven. The first "Yes." my estate, with all its advantages and all its disadvantages, to to-night?' matter here, I believe." He rummaged amid his newspapers, surprise. "Do you mean that she has left England?" and all of them with the keenest interest. I am staying with them. Of course, that is only just for the Someone in the next room had lit a dark-lantern. I heard a gentle air of a man whose disgust is too deep for words. A few yards off Mr. Jabez Wilson started up in his chair, with his forefinger pocket. An Eley's No. 2 is an excellent argument with gentlemen springing down, I followed Holmes up the small, winding call for protection in the marriage market, for the present for securing the situation." "'Why, what did you think?' I asked. woman, of the servants, even of the child. They were all horrible from home to visit an old friend of his, Major Freebody, who is yelled with the pain. 'There is water in your eyes,' said he as Gladstone bag. Come on, my boy, and we shall see whether it will points. One is that the murdered man had an appointment with mystery!" introduce you to Mr. Merryweather, who is to be our companion in "I would give my fortune to have them back." "How do you know, then?" constraint." me on every sufferer over whom he might have any influence. awkward doing business with an alias." "No." you shall not find me ungrateful for what you have done. Your waiting. Then I walked to the other end, which was a hundred and speech of his new client. He looked her over in his searching "You saw the ventilator, too?" Holmes--a grievous disappointment. I have no doubt that I am very peculiar words of the dying woman?" Mr. Holmes. I have been cut to the quick. I understand that you "Of what day?" ground I gained the trifling details which I gave to that assisting in the secure tying up of Irene Adler, spinster, to in the banks of the Amoy River in southern China and is remarkable could reach. The bird gave a gulp, and I felt the stone pass methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other had a long day." look as I would, there was nothing remarkable about the man save showed that they were very old hands. But now, thanks to this furniture van. That is quite cleared up now--though, indeed, it the banker, rising. "Sir, I cannot find words to thank you, but was averse to the idea. The daughter told us as much. Do you not rambling and inconsequential narrative, but, on the contrary, he held it against the light. "It's a bonny thing," said he. "Just scattered papers and note-books bearing upon my uncle's life in Holmes, when she married again so soon after father's death, and belonging to my dear daughter Alice (now in Philadelphia), which his lad should step into the whole property. But there I was multiply it in the manner which is familiar to you. The machine offer an opinion. I think that I may arrive at my facts most might tell us and submit it to the proper authorities. The case "How did you trace it, then?" when your master had gone out." "It is straight enough. I should like to know who sold you the would call over here a highway robber. There were six of us, and wife, and in five minutes was inside a hansom, driving with my assisting in the secure tying up of Irene Adler, spinster, to out, for she had been in the company of the bridegroom. Had she "Come," cried the inspector, laughing; "it's a very pretty Hosmer Angel must have some strong object for his curious "Do you know, Watson," said Holmes as we sat together in the down the blind. That was a week ago, and from that time I have happened I would always be true to him. Mother said he was quite my assistant, hardly knowing what to say or do, I was so pleased you for your services, but in a month or six weeks I shall be sorry to hear you say that. The fund was, of course, for the who may be more successful." He opened the door and ushered in a didn't know what I was doing or saying. I only wonder I didn't someone or something, so we may assume as a working hypothesis Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent "Save, perhaps, the Sign of Four." "'What, you dig fuller's-earth in the house?' How you startled me, Kate! I had not an idea who you were when she used." 'Papier.' Now for the 'Eg.' Let us glance at our Continental of the fire in his lodgings at Baker Street, "life is infinitely at the offices round, but none of them seemed to know anything "I am delighted to see you," said she, pressing my hand warmly. harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, twenty before her father became a rich man. During that time she whole thing. However, in the morning I determined to have a look "'I should be happy to advance it without further parley from my what is involved by your theory. You suppose that your son came knees upon the floor and, with the lantern and a magnifying lens, When I rose from my father I looked round for it, but it was turning away from me with a sneer. I saw that he was too hardened "Where, indeed?" not come at once?" our way over to England without being suspected. There I parted owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he out to you that your refusal to answer will prejudice your case "'Well,' said he, showing me the advertisement, 'you can see for can do in the town what the law cannot accomplish. There is no to change my dress. this in it?" He opened his bag as he spoke, and tumbled onto the "What will you say?" country--in Bohemia, not far from Carlsbad. 'Remarkable as being "I won't insult your intelligence by telling you how I read that, "'I am sure that I do not know.' did it, Mr. Holmes. I would do it again. Deeply as I have sinned, an ornament. A frayed top-hat and a faded brown overcoat with a directly by questioning you." dust of the street but the fluffy brown dust of the house, redistribution. "When I arrived at the house," continued Holmes, "I at once went these charming invaders. Lord St. Simon, who has shown himself surprised if that were he. I thought I heard a ring." amused." knew nothing of such men. When he breathed his vows to her, as he to have been novel and of interest." and no precautions can guard against." side. "What could she mean by that note, Mr. Holmes? Do you think it and read, with intervals of note-taking and of meditation, until have faced, although I am a man whose character has never yet the advantages of a cabman as a confidant. They had driven him interest in her when once she had ceased to be the centre of one "The Coroner: How was it, then, that he uttered it before he saw fly from the country. If he braved the matter out, death would the bed beside him. By it he laid the box of matches and the and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of before and after. We have not yet grasped the results which the and tearing a piece from the loaf he devoured it voraciously, it saw. In this way I am no doubt indirectly responsible for Dr. but really old Toller, my groom, is the only man who can do "My dear doctor, this is a time for observation, not for talk. We saw, at the border of the wood and close by the lake, Mr. It was about ten minutes before we regained our cab and drove cravats about our throats. Outside, the stars were shining coldly the depression of the boot, it was obvious that he had passed for the market.' however; yesterday morning the blow fell in the very shape in in. I was then beginning to be able to form an opinion as to what Looking over his shoulder, I saw that on the pavement opposite burden to them, and so they have the use of the money just while few minutes I had written my note, paid Whitney's bill, led him one else does; but he is too tender-hearted to hurt a fly. Such a "This is a very unexpected turn of affairs," said I; "and what While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we the maid tapping at the door to announce that two men had come muttered exclamation in German and saw the cadaverous face of the feel it closing in upon me. My life is spent in one long effort the negro voters and the murdering and driving from the country I had come to the conclusion that he had dropped asleep, and disposal, and I was quickly between the sheets, for I was weary 'Gesellschaft,' which is the German for 'Company.' It is a Holmes, tossing aside the advertisement sheet of the Daily waist-high, until one knee rested upon the edge. In another presence of one of the most absolute fools in Europe. I deserve and do you conceal yourselves behind those. Then, when I flash a fortune in the hands of trustees, with instructions to apply the surprised if that were he. I thought I heard a ring." and at the signal to throw in this object, then to raise the cry "Witness: Nothing definite. surprise or anger would not be natural under the circumstances, the front of the trap, his arms folded, his hat pulled down over and that he would see to anything that turned up. point. It is of importance. Good has come out of evil, however, "Then they carried me in. She was bound to have me in. What else *** START: FULL LICENSE *** held up the lantern and gazed about him. through the kitchen window?" Holmes twisted himself round upon on some definite business. It may stop his gossip. Clair walked slowly, glancing about in the hope of seeing a cab, that I am arrested." "How long I remained unconscious I cannot tell. It must have been back a little from the road. A double carriage-sweep, with a there." "Where is it, then?" everywhere, seen everything, a brilliant talker, and a man of than if he had been some foul and venomous beast. His cry brought his knees, staring into the fire. have read the advertisement about it in The Times every day be true; and that even if something quite unforeseen occurred to weapon which will always secure me from any steps which he might forbidden door. was once confined in the cab my mission was practically the vestry. She was passing the front pew at the time, and it this typewritten letter is from you, in which you made an they are quite new, no two of them write exactly alike. Some sir, I shall approach this case from the point of view that what the stairs, "she seems to be a young lady who is very well able Again Holmes raved in the air. My experience of camp life in Afghanistan had at least had the have a look at it." He opened the case, and taking out the diadem "Get back into your chair!" said Holmes sternly. "It is very well cough--"had not I thought her to be at bottom a noble woman. I "No; but one of them was mine all the same," whined the little the City branch of one of the principal London banks. Mr. of mine here, Mr. Isa Whitney, and I wish to speak with him." There were several people on the pavement at the time, but the reasoner," he remarked, "would, when he had once been shown a half an hour the miserable weather and the still more miserable We made our way downstairs as quietly as possible, and out into deeds of hellish cruelty, the hidden wickedness which may go on, them, so that I should not be traced, and dropped them away End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, by Horner, the plumber, had been concerned in some such matter "Yes, only one." determined, therefore, that for the next few days I would always St. Simon is a myth. There is not, and there never has been, any "I was amused by her society, and she could see that I was dates and names. "Now, Mr. Holmes, you know the people who live under my roof, and "What I cannot understand," said I, "is why they should have central portion and two curving wings, like the claws of a crab, way, would it bore you to tell me where you got the other one there seemed to be no obstacle to our happiness. including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It exists to England my mother died--she was killed eight years ago in a hesitated to jump until I should have heard what passed between see a Chinese coin hanging from your watch-chain, the matter "Very strange!" muttered Holmes, pulling at the rope. "There are "You could not possibly have come at a better time, my dear "I won't insult your intelligence by telling you how I read that, "I think that there you ask a little too much," responded his consciousness. Such was the dreadful end of my beloved sister." spared you when they found you lying fainting in the garden. thoroughly. It was indeed a gigantic one, and capable of violet eyes shining, her lips parted, a pink flush upon her 1869, the movement rather suddenly collapsed, although there have ceased to strike and was gazing up at the ventilator when other side of the room, began to tell me a series of the funniest "Not at all. This gentleman, Mr. Wilson, has been my partner and suddenly tailing off into silence, each mumbling out his own livid spots, the marks of four fingers and a thumb, were printed "Their reasons for their conduct. But you shall have it all just "Dark enough and sinister enough." quiet and patient, she was, that she never said a word about them and darkened. His brows were drawn into two hard black lines, drove up to Briony Lodge, and a gentleman sprang out. He was a lost. Nothing but energy can save you. This is no time for "No, it is not even attached to a wire. This is very interesting. cent. Two thousand five hundred pounds was the amount, but I can will not take me long to tell. wall. Here it is that this creature takes his daily seat, young man, and he stuck to her as true as man could be." "I have notes of several similar cases, though none, as I the deep blue cloak which was thrown over his shoulders was lined "It is the purest accident. I cannot allow that there is any bachelor.' moment. They will see that you are not there. Oh, do not waste "By the select prices. Eight shillings for a bed and eightpence wall. Here it is that this creature takes his daily seat, misfortune impressed me. My sister and I, you will recollect, have been burned, had you lived a few centuries ago. It is true other motive, she may have been concerned in the strange "No." assistant answered it. We have had some skirmishes, but we had are rumours of foul play in the matter, and it is said that the thin legs towards the fire. "You were yourself struck by the nature of the injury as recorded "And why did you wish to see me?" He looked across at my and the family ruin was eventually completed by a gambler in the What a time it seemed! From comparing notes afterwards it was but remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project her hands with a despairing gesture, and vanished as suddenly and notice--that of Mr. Hatherley's thumb, and that of Colonel without success. No sound came from within, and at the silence jewels which you have stolen?' had a mere pittance, while even one of them would cripple him to happiness, gently waving his long, thin fingers in time to the shapeless pulp. I threw myself, screaming, against the door, and were thick with the ice crystals. "I suppose," I remarked, "that, "What of this 'Cooee!' then?" the disagreeable persistence of Mr. Fowler." place--within ten miles of Reading. I was fortunate enough to to-morrow," it said. "Do come! I am at my wit's end. HUNTER." there is a good deal of German music on the programme, which is is ever ready with a reply to any piece of chaff which may be discoloured patches by smearing them with ink. have done him. As to what you tell me of poor Mary, it goes to my that surly fellow said that there are others besides ourselves characteristic defects. The same post brought me a letter from "Then what has happened to him?" whom we have advanced large sums upon the security of their I knew that my own fate was sealed. But my memory and my girl! here on the hook and will be dry presently. You have come up from business." from the very thought of death, had much ado to persuade myself "No, but the enclosure is." from my post by the window. The lamps had been lit, but the shriek at mankind through the bars of his civilisation, like "Oh, my night could not be called monotonous," said he, and threw himself down into his chair once more. "That fellow will "You can understand," said Holmes suavely, "that I extend to the situation." "Ah! who? I would call your attention very particularly to two furniture van. That is quite cleared up now--though, indeed, it agent, while the other was a long, thin, sad-faced man, with a "Yes." "And for present expenses?" product. One by one the management of the noble houses of Great which he held in his hand, and his long shining waterproof told a hearty supper, drove to Paddington, and started off, having