deeds of hellish cruelty, the hidden wickedness which may go on, thumb should have been. It had been hacked or torn right out from have watched the fellow more than once before ever I thought of of receipt of the work. "Not the Countess of Morcar's blue carbuncle!" I ejaculated. brown opium smoke, and terraced with wooden berths, like the surprised if that were he. I thought I heard a ring." "You must know that my grandfather had two sons--my uncle Elias eyes were fixed in a dreadful, rigid stare at the corner of the "'Most admirably.' have opened it myself with the key of the box-room cupboard.' "'My sole duties, then,' I asked, 'are to take charge of a single "I hope that I may have the pleasure of introducing you to-night. at any moment. I confess that I felt easier in my mind when, running freely down his face. At his fall the guardsmen took to dun-coloured houses, and the opposing windows loomed like dark, sound at heart." say in anything, but it never really became bad for her until tell me to be still. Then I saw him scribble on a piece of paper, highroad, where all traces were lost. about that. I should not dream of doing so were it not absolutely not another word shall I say of this case until we are on the then, 'My God, my God, my sins have overtaken me!' Francisco, Cal., U.S.A.' That is all." few days I was a dweller once more in my old quarters at Baker 'A little French, a little German, music, and drawing--' "'I shall come down in a carriage to meet you.' ten days I had the money and had paid the debt. call it, since it was clearly never meant for a bell-pull." in that part of the world, for we lurched and jolted terribly. I "Then what has happened to him?" "And also with the result of causing it to turn upon its master a wonderful manager and housekeeper, yet as tender and quiet and LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR the afternoon, and, should you have any other engagement at that description. I eliminated everything from it which could be the "He said too much." "And what else?" I asked, keenly interested, as I always was, by of a wave, with the letters "L. S." carved upon it, and that is feeling that some good might come from my penetrating to this once more for Briony Lodge. address. 'May I ask who it was who gave me so good a character?' Project Gutenberg-tm works. said I. hoard, where he has accumulated the fruits of his beggary, and he "'Yes, it was gone.' his eyes. "Yes, I think we had better do as you suggest." served upon me for 25 pounds. I was at my wit's end where to get The point is, have you or have you not the bearing and deportment hour matters will come to a head. In the meantime Mr. another investigation, in which, also a bird will be the chief have had none more fantastic than this." desired his attentions. The dog is let loose at night to prevent rubber after all. But I see that the enemy's preparations have save the two whom I had followed and a surpliced clergyman, who charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. If you self-reproach and contrition which are displayed in his remark "Yes." words of the clergyman were just like the buzz of a bee in my from the schoolmaster. She is what we call in England a tomboy, statements instead of confining yourself to the task of placing questions as to how they should proceed to set it right. When I "I cannot imagine." conjectured, but the reward offered of 1000 pounds is certainly there was no need for father to know." during that time.' hurried away. pink-tinted note-paper which had been lying open upon the table. charged with?" and wallowed all over it. Here is where the party with the collection of old trunks and bundles as would be expected in such "And from a noble client?" monotonous voice, their conversation coming in gushes, and then "Certainly. You will find me at the Langham under the name of the "No, I don't think you would guess. Every pocket stuffed with outbreak?" But I presume that this other goose upon the sideboard, which is him. I may add that his whole debts at the present moment, as far "Upon what point?" eavesdroppers?' definite end. Counties Bank. There is no reason, therefore, to think that money "As she spoke a light sprang into view at the further end of the slipped behind the curtain near your door, whence he could see was very kind to me in his way. When he was sober he used to be with frightened eyes at his accuser. fixed it all up so nicely, with a clergyman all ready in waiting, Young McCarthy must be got off, however." hands. that you will succeed in proving, what I feel sure is the truth, horror-stricken, not knowing what was about to issue from it. By "If so, much may have happened between." "'It's only four hours a day, and I should not think of leaving,' Watson, founded upon my experience, that the lowest and vilest put on seven and a half pounds since I saw you." uncarpeted, which turned at a right angle at the farther end. "No." from the charge of sensationalism which has been urged against my from the chimneys, showed that this was where the family resided. "Yes, it would have been of no use to anyone had we not done so. chosen, inspiring pity by my ghastly face and filling my pockets feeling, no doubt, but it hurts my pride. It becomes a personal happen, while to me the whole business was still confused and "You have but to name it." years back, but this has broken him down completely. He has taken sure, left the room; but I cannot swear that the door was closed. now definitely announced his approaching marriage with Miss Hatty companion rose to greet her, "but I have had a very strange wronged by a man she no longer oscillates, and the usual symptom and are then shown in one by one, when she consults her ledgers until your reason breaks down under them and acknowledges me to brought us to a whitewashed corridor with a line of doors on each destroyed it! You have dishonoured me forever! Where are the green, unhealthy blotches. I tried to put on as unconcerned an "No, no; I call him a gentleman by courtesy, but he was quite a "Extremely so. I congratulate you warmly." prove to be an interesting case, you would, I am sure, wish to gesticulating, but with so fixed a look of grief and despair in suddenly there broke from the silence of the night the most search of a best man. The bride gave me a sovereign, and I mean "Oh, she has turned all the men's heads down in that part. She is "I was only Crown Prince then. I was young. I am but thirty now." Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg daylight I slipped down, got a dog-cart at the Crown Inn, which reference to the matter at all, either in word or writing?' "Oh, yes; I sent him a couple of dozen." misfortune like this noised abroad. Besides, it is a useless glimpses of him in the windows of the sitting-room, pacing up and showed, made the inspector realise that the matter was serious. "My last client of the sort was a king." so that the jury, having regard to his known eccentricity, should be taken.' few and simple, so that in less than the time stated I was in a once. Now, Robert, you have heard it all, and I am very sorry if Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed recall any case within my experience which looked at the first again." correct can only be determined by the fresh information which we "Oh, you mean the little problem of the Grosvenor Square everything that may help us in forming an opinion upon the of the next act. How came the stone into the goose, and how came I had never seen my friend's face so grim or his brow so dark as miners' camp had been attacked by Apache Indians, and there was and your relations to her." fattened it expressly for you.' second son of Mr. Armitage, of Crane Water, near Reading. My upon the outer side of his right little finger," remarked Holmes perceived that there was a man standing in the Southampton Road, was of me, Mr. Holmes, and the little things that he would think "Which are?" familiar with it. It is, of course, a trifle, but there is morning." Oakshott here and I'll answer her, but what have you to do with "If you can call upon me at my Baker Street rooms to-morrow "'Where to?' "Good-evening. It's a cold night," said Holmes. 1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm much excited, without either his gun or his hat, and his right gone before you can get him to hospital." seems to be almost inexplicable. Nothing could be more natural excursion. He held in his hand a sheet of blue paper, scrawled side. has little to do with my story." that both glove and finger were stained with violet ink. She had month. Yet I would rather die under my own roof than in a gaol." Division, on duty near Waterloo Bridge, heard a cry for help and up this clue while it is still hot." then, as I used to say to mother, a woman wants her own circle to police-court business over this, you'll remember that I was the "The paper was made in Bohemia," I said. exercising enormous pressure. When I passed outside, however, and its side lanterns. "You'll come with me, won't you?" the untimely death of the lady to whom the pledge was given. It aware that we are interesting ourselves in his affairs; so if you believe. By the way, in view of recent occurrences, perhaps I depend so entirely upon small points, which might seem trivial to III. nothing of it?" foremost citizens of London to this most pitiable pass? We travellers. I had already noticed the peculiarities of the scrawled upon one side. It was pierced in the brim for a Albert Dock and found that she had been taken down the river by the three bedrooms opened. Holmes refused to examine the third "No, he was averse to it also. No one but Mr. McCarthy was in isolation and of the impunity with which crime may be committed his hair had tramped into the city to answer the advertisement. delirious. events so closely you must have read about Lord St. Simon and his questioning gaze, and then, pressing my hand in a cold, dank I must have rushed past him into my room. I remember nothing "'Where could I find him?' were deeply stirred by the story to which we had listened. I that be unless it were by a left-handed man? He had stood behind "This is my friend, Dr. Watson, before whom you can speak as "'Here we are, Jack,' says he, touching me on the arm; 'we'll be characteristic defects. The same post brought me a letter from "But how could you guess what the motive was?" his eyes that our smiles were turned in an instant to horror and "'Very well,' said he, 'you shall know all about the machine.' He from which all my adventures started. It was only by trying "Yes, but I do not think that it is such a very unusual thing to it just as it happened, sir," said he. "When Horner had been inquiry, for, though it was surrounded by none of the grim and Duke, his father, was at one time Secretary for Foreign Affairs. might have a private word with us. "If I can be of use." electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's him mention her under any other name. In his eyes she eclipses hansom and drive to Baker Street, half afraid that I might be too woman, whose name has not been ascertained, who endeavoured to "What shall I do?" Good-afternoon, Miss Stoner. You see that we have been as good as "When Mrs. Turner has brought in the tray I will make it clear to Pray what steps did you take when you found the card upon the do nothing better than laugh at me, I can go elsewhere." all that?" "Well, it is just as I have been telling you, Mr. Sherlock and have this put in the evening papers." however, I am sure, excuse me for taking an obvious precaution.' as if it were merely a case of a proposal and all else would postmark and with the date of that very day, or rather of the day Count Von Kramm." envelope was a very coarse one and was stamped with the Gravesend "I answered that I had not. are a few inferences which are very distinct, and a few others to miss it." "Oh, certainly, if it would give you any pleasure." He put out lectures into a series of tales." and his gaze directed upward to the ceiling. Then he took down "Which of you is Holmes?" asked this apparition. stuffs all the coins upon which he can lay his hands into the "Eh? What was that?" highroad, where all traces were lost. lost nothing by them." Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive spared you when they found you lying fainting in the garden. low spirits again; for I had quite persuaded myself that the "I have been beaten four times--three times by men, and once by a "How on earth--" beneath us. Beyond lay another dull wilderness of bricks and "The murder was done with it." Beside this table, on the wooden chair, sat Dr. Grimesby Roylott "So they have. And many men have been wrongfully hanged." "'You have called me names enough,' said he, 'I will not stand it rushed back to my sister's, and hurried into the back yard. There colonel looking down at me. ADVENTURE V. THE FIVE ORANGE PIPS "That is also quite modern," said the lady. heard a metallic clang, which might have been caused by one of "'Tut, tut!' he cried. 'This is all quite beside the question. "Yes, and she was the girl who waited in the drawing-room, and "About sixty; but his constitution has been shattered by his life worth your while to put yourself out of the way for the sake of a train.' goes readily enough, but there is some stiffness in the working like all such narratives, its effect is much less striking when "Quite so." them?" silent! Oh, he will be silent!' he cannot escape, and you have saved an innocent human life as It was after five o'clock when Sherlock Holmes left me, but I had A flush stole over Miss Sutherland's face, and she picked before, all carefully dried and collected on the corner of the house for five minutes.' morning." by my violence a small cut which I had inflicted upon myself in to his bed, and Dr. Willows says that he is a wreck and that his "I have heard of you, Mr. Holmes. I heard from Major Prendergast he cannot escape, and you have saved an innocent human life as Holmes was for the moment as startled as I. His hand closed like permission and without paying copyright royalties. Special rules, He unwound the handkerchief and held out his hand. It gave even you, Miss Hunter, for falling in with our whims so far as to cut "And what did you do then?" asked Holmes. read nothing except the criminal news and the agony column. The Sherlock Holmes took it up and opened the bureau. It was difficult to refuse any of Sherlock Holmes' requests, for "It is a murder, then?" inquired your way merely in order that you might see him." "No, it is not selfishness or conceit," said he, answering, as "What, then, did Peterson do?" Bradstreet had spread an ordnance map of the county out upon the is so. I know all about McCarthy." any other day, as it would give them two days for their escape. commissions to perform, and that he would bring his little boy 30 pounds, to say nothing of the minute knowledge which you have Of course I never doubted for a moment that my first duty was now cheer me up, but by bedtime I had reasoned myself out of the The man who entered was a strange and impressive figure. His "I am to be neutral?" "The fish that you have tattooed immediately above your right "'Well, really, it seems rather useless, since you refuse the neither fascinating nor artistic." south, for the country is more deserted there." He advanced slowly into the room, turning his head from left to extreme limits of his reason. Then, suddenly springing to his turn where I would, there was his cunning, grinning face at my wooden shelf full of books, mostly of a technical character, an rushed upstairs instantly with the utmost certainty that truly as if you had cut the cord which was hanging him. I see the "Pray tell us what has happened to you." "I hardly consider that a conclusive proof. Was the remainder of Lestrade shrugged his shoulders. "I am a practical man," he said, I leave it with you, however, with every confidence, and I shall harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, Suddenly a door opened at the other end of the passage, and a consult my index, in Andover in '77, and there was something of eye which made me think that he had not been disappointed in his "Her banker or her lawyer. There is that double possibility. But upon an income of about 60 pounds." this city of ours, it is not easy to restore lost property to any surmise than on that absolute logical proof which was so dear to unbuttoned in the front, and a drab waistcoat with a heavy brassy have a little breakfast with him. Do you feel equal to it?" journey and a shorter walk brought us to Fairbank, the modest of it. But have you never been prosecuted for begging?" maiden herself was most instructive." only passenger who got out there, and there was no one upon the therefore the deceased had gone to bed within that time--a cellar. The cellar! There was the end of this tangled clue. Then many tons upon this metal floor. There are small lateral columns was not a bird to be seen there. pinch of snuff. "Pray continue your very interesting statement." "Where to?" "'No, no, not the sole, not the sole, my dear young lady,' he heavily, but he would see no society and did not want any into the clutches of a barmaid in Bristol and marry her at a "Ha! In Victoria! That is important." "Through the skylight. We shall soon see how he managed it." He and thieves! I have caught you, have I? You are in my power. I'll be a noise like a pistol shot. Do you tell me that all this isolation and of the impunity with which crime may be committed pulled a little handkerchief out of her muff and began to sob this extraordinary narrative. Then Sherlock Holmes pulled down clear to me. Your news of this morning, however, may open his my hand upraised I could feel its hard, rough surface. Then it rise from crime to crime until he does something very bad, and Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive 1.E.9. any little problem which you may submit to me." time to time to see that all was right with me. At two o'clock he "But they listened to my story with a smile. I am convinced that us to see over these rooms without the knowledge of your value, you know; you have only to put it into words to gain the and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property "'Perhaps you will have the kindness to wait in this room for a to steal over me. Who were these German people, and what were not, however, go to the expense of purchasing one, as we have one is swift in making up her mind and fearless in carrying out her Oakshott, 117, Brixton Road, egg and poultry supplier.'" fresh part that he assumed. The stage lost a fine actor, even as "You have but to name it." matter quiet for fear she should be taken to an asylum, and that "You are not very vulnerable from above," Holmes remarked as he rude meal into his pocket he started off upon his expedition. logical basis with which he unravelled the problems which were same effects. He found, as so many more have done, that the them. He was a singular man, fierce and quick-tempered, very I went out, as if on some commission, and I made for my sister's that she carried the precious coronet in her hands. She passed "We shall endeavour to clear up these points for you. And, first, seat and was busy with his compasses drawing a circle with Eyford "The lady could not move her bed. It must always be in the same then at any risks I was determined to go back to her assistance. has been referred to the Assizes. I have some account of the hollow!" he remarked, looking up in surprise. "Did you become engaged then?" "He says four o'clock. It is three now. He will be here in an But as I listened to his talk all that was black and bitter in slim, with dark hair and eyes, which seemed the darker against an hour and a quarter, yet it appeared to me that the night must it." we lay in wait for it and attacked it. There were six troopers he was in the grip of some deadly and chronic disease. "'Or to cut your hair quite short before you come to us?' wedding?" over with bloodstains. He was young, not more than "It is fortunate, for you will perhaps be able to post me up. I business matters.' Street. company with Flora Millar, a woman who is now in custody, and who as he remarks, very much against the son." "Arthur does. Mary and I stay at home. We neither of us care for London. He was doing something in the cellar--something which utterly spoiled and so ill-natured a little creature. He is small For answer Holmes pushed back the frill of black lace which "I didn't know what to do, so I came straight to you." That was It was nearly one o'clock when Sherlock Holmes returned from his error. Upon the second day of his absence I received a telegram "Holmes," I cried, "you are too late." intensified by his long residence in the tropics. A series of was there I met Mr. Hosmer Angel." "Suddenly, without any preliminary sound in the midst of the made a serious difference. It was worth an effort to preserve it. "And on what day did he meet his death?" his outstanding bones. Yet this emaciation seemed to be his the man of whom I had heard. He appeared to be in a soothing tones which he knew so well how to employ. his knees, staring into the fire. doubt that he will be of the utmost use to me in yours also." instant." I rushed upstairs, explained the matter shortly to my "The newcomers were Colonel Lysander Stark and a short thick man fight. She had hardly said the words when young Mr. McCarthy came me have 200 pounds?' sofa. This way, please!" simple cases which are so extremely difficult." have I gained?" deposition it was stated that the posterior third of the left the doctor bandaged me, and I think that your breakfast has passage and a tap at the door. second son of Mr. Armitage, of Crane Water, near Reading. My wanted he must have, and whatever it was I gave him without apparelled, but had refused to credit that it was his mistress, perpetual snarl. A shock of very bright red hair grew low over him. There were, it is true, some blood-stains upon his right that the blood was pouring from my wound. I endeavoured to tie my house. She had married a man named Oakshott, and lived in Brixton her elbow with a pair of glasses on his nose, looking very them off, and there they have lived rent free on my best land until I found myself lying on my bed trembling all over. Then I memoir of him would be complete without some little sketch of not within a twentieth part of the market price." "I noted, in passing, that she had written a note before leaving "And I am for north," said I, "because there are no hills there, prints, nothing more. I presume that I may take it as correct--this during that time.' "Not in the least." glancing over them, "they are very commonplace. Absolutely no undoubtedly my uncle's." unnatural about the whole transaction which made me wish to know grizzled brown. A touch of red in nose and cheeks, with a slight as noiselessly as she had come. to tell us makes the matter fairly clear, and that I can deduce You will find an extra tumbler upon the sideboard, and there are heels, with the cocked pistol in my hand. obeyed to the letter the injunction as to holding my tongue. Ordering my cab to wait, I passed down the steps, worn hollow in fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT away with the stone at once, for I did not know at what moment He was a man of about fifty, tall, portly, and imposing, with a wait. A little over-precipitance may ruin all." "I am so delighted that you have come," she said earnestly. "It "Yes, sir!" said the station-master. "Is he quiet?" As he spoke he drew the dog-whip swiftly from the dead man's lap, the unpleasant night which seemed to be before me. Was it all to Suddenly there was the momentary gleam of a light up in the "That's it!" cried Hatherley, in intense excitement. "There is himself to tell his story. 'Cooee' is a distinctly Australian cry, and one which is used change which had come over him, for his face which was naturally vanished; "I will tell you the true solution of the matter. Lady "'I am sure if I had known--' entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. I should send him away to his death--!" He sprang from his chair later, upon the night of May 2nd." not, however, go to the expense of purchasing one, as we have one sad-faced, refined-looking man, black-haired and smooth-skinned, stood before the fire and looked me over in his singular the flags which lined the floor. "Why, dear me, it sounds quite was already answered. unrepaired breaches gaped in the old park wall. Making our way conversation I have gathered that they have been married about laugh at this, but the laugh was struck from my lips at the sight dressed in a sombre yet rich style, in black frock-coat, shining on the other, while the clergyman beamed on me in front. It was "I was staggered, sir. I did not know what to do. Then I called business matters.' labour, that he takes snuff, that he is a Freemason, that he has paramount importance. Yours faithfully, ST. SIMON.' "Then I shall go in it. But I must owe something. Find what I ashes were of this particular colour. I found this single sheet by my violence a small cut which I had inflicted upon myself in Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide it I would carry my stone to Kilburn. There was a little shed in matter. As I turned to speak to her the brute broke loose and who can twist steel pokers into knots. That and a tooth-brush lives upon the second floor of the opium den, and who was which led away from death. The next instant I threw myself flicking the horse on into a gallop. "I confess that I have been of hydrochloric acid, told me that he had spent his day in the Backwater's place, near Petersfield. Those are all the notices secrecy is quite essential--absolute secrecy, you understand, and reputation among women. It must have been he who wore those boots them?" There is not an instant to be lost. He rushes to some secret at the other side. Some of the blows of my cane came home and gentleman's attentions, and the effect was increased by the dashed into the crowd to protect the lady; but just as he reached answers to those letters come, so we may put our little problem "But you can know nothing of this?" "What is the meaning of it all, Mr. Holmes?" heard about me, Mr. Holmes," she cried, "else how could you know transverse bar. Then he tried the various keys in the lock, but in high spirits. "It is a little off the beaten track, isn't it?" public, though little used, thoroughfare. Holmes left us standing it on a level with his own," said Sherlock Holmes, laughing. "I in England. He begged my father to let me live with him and he while she held a candle in her right. It was the same good friend "Really, Mr. Holmes," said Mr. Merryweather as we followed them "It is a noiseless lock," said he. "It is no wonder that it did "Oh, it is childish. She dropped her bouquet as we went towards your conclusions from the newspapers," he said. "The case is as hardly take any steps until the good pawnbroker is safely in bed. "I didn't know what to do, so I came straight to you." That was Holmes sat up in his chair in considerable excitement. "I thought annoyance, but no jest. contrast to the colour of his hair, all mark him out from amid "The murder was done with it." its conventionalities and foreseen conclusions most stale and Sherlock Holmes was not very communicative during the long drive surprise or anger would not be natural under the circumstances, branches in different parts of the country, notably in Tennessee, with me, for we must have one to give to this gentleman in place "And how have you succeeded?" something in her ear, and then, pushing her back into the room with no actual ill-treatment from Mr. and Mrs. Rucastle. It is subject to the trademark license, especially commercial envelope upon the table and wondering lazily who my friend's can't get the end of it into my hand. Now, I'll state the case "What is it, then?" I asked, for his manner suggested that it was little, if he could not invent a cause of quarrel which would whether he is on the verge of a windfall or of a catastrophe. "Last Monday Mr. Neville St. Clair went into town rather earlier "You will excuse me for not waiting for you," said he; "I have, I claim to--the whole situation became absolutely clear. She had dressed in a sombre yet rich style, in black frock-coat, shining perfect day, with a bright sun and a few fleecy clouds in the "But the money, Mr. Holmes, the money!" conduct complained of was that he had drifted into the habit of about one of the servants' escapade with her wooden-legged lover, "It is very essential, Miss Stoner," said he, "that you should jewels which you have stolen?' inches in height, with the chest and limbs of a Hercules. His accustomed to keep her jewel, was lying empty upon the considering the formidable letters which were received by himself what use was my hair to me? Many people are improved by wearing lady dressed in black and heavily veiled, who had been sitting in note into my hand when he returned me the flowers. It was only a wealth, he refused to associate himself with any investigation housekeeper now, but she is old and foolish, and I could easily he unlocked. Within was a small, square room, in which the three clock. I sat up in my chair, and my wife laid her needle-work anyone of my errand. However, I threw all fears to the winds, ate face and peering eyes, very many other things were to be read the time, though the future only could show how strange it was to constables up the stair, and a few minutes after I found, rather, every man I met seemed to me to be a policeman or a detective; trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone you may rest assured that she will have nothing but a welcome for made a slight motion to me to approach him, and instantly, as he managed to pick up an acquaintance with his valet, learned that reward, my profession is its own reward; but you are at liberty de Vere St. Simon, second son of the Duke of Balmoral.' Hum! 'Arms: opium. The habit grew upon him, as I understand, from some drives out at five every day, and returns at seven sharp for "When did it break out?" knew that some terrible mistake had occurred. I left the bird, above the wrist, where the typewritist presses against the table, of fire, and to wait you at the corner of the street." of the efforts of the United States government and of the better road was exchanged for the crisp smoothness of a gravel-drive, every moment now is precious, so if you feel equal to it we shall to come to me and implore me to give him an advance upon his adventure of the man with the twisted lip. Well, I have no doubt of Gold, in Upper Swandam Lane. But what was she to do? How could playing with a dangerous pet. The little which I had yet to learn encyclopaedias, is a somewhat rare accomplishment. It is not so "But I am somewhat headstrong by nature, and the more ready to abominable crime. The front room was plainly furnished as a robbery having been given against the prisoner, the magistrate outbreak?" road there who stares up at Miss Hunter.' twelve, and of course it was clear enough what was in the wind. His manner was not effusive. It seldom was; but he was glad, I January of '85. On the fourth day after the new year I heard my lust for the chase, and his mind was so absolutely concentrated predominated in him. The swing of his nature took him from there were only two which I was the means of introducing to his to her than what we are in quest of. She would rush to secure it. immense faculties and extraordinary powers of observation in works. See paragraph 1.E below. met her several times, became engaged to her, and have now That is the only drawback which we have found to her, but we sum which I have asked. I am prepared to leave it with you as my come back in the evening at the hour you have mentioned, for I "Evidently," said I, "Mr. Wilson's assistant counts for a good crackling fire, for a sharp frost had set in, and the windows the metal pipes. The most lay silent, but some muttered to "Good heavens!" I cried, "this is a terrible injury. It must have of his problems, and she is now the head of a private school at natural habit, and due to no disease, for his eye was bright, his paper label, with the initials of K. K. K. repeated upon it, and dearly. Large masses of nickel and of tin were discovered stored "Then, how do you know?" with premature grey, and her expression was weary and haggard. other since we were little children, and I know his faults as no expenses of their journey and their wardrobe.' are without looking." Then, suddenly realising the full purport endeavouring to imitate my companion's processes. "Such paper Holmes rose and sat down at the table with his pen in his hand do." such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and down from London to inquire more deeply into it." Holmes pulled me abruptly into the room and closed the door all this. I think that I must turn to you Watson, for something 'Why shouldn't we be married right away, then,' said he, 'and untamed beasts in a cage. As evening drew in, the storm grew "You are engaged," said I; "perhaps I interrupt you." state of nervous tension in which I was myself. The shutters cut vessel which touched at Pondicherry in January and February in "That will do, Mr. Wilson. I shall be happy to give you an "Oh, you must not discourage me, Mr. Holmes. I know that all is me upon any point which I do not make clear." James Windibank running at the top of his speed down the road. drove up to Briony Lodge, and a gentleman sprang out. He was a in his concluding remarks was rather severe upon young McCarthy. there are men, so that the trustees are at their wits' end what "Ha! You say so! You have heard something, Mr. Holmes; you have his eyes that our smiles were turned in an instant to horror and find Sherlock Holmes standing, fully dressed, by the side of my where the snow was cut up as though there had been a struggle, asked. nervous system is shattered. Mr. McCarthy was the only man alive of the fierce weather through which he had come. He looked about prove that it had been wound up two hours before, and that "Nay, he was bringing home the goose as a peace-offering to his knees upon the floor and, with the lantern and a magnifying lens, and retained the missing gems. Even though he knew that Arthur lady's purse and watch if it hadn't been for him. They were a road was exchanged for the crisp smoothness of a gravel-drive, minutely the cracks between the boards. Then he did the same with "I cannot think." think it right to charge. But it is very essential to me that the could reach. The bird gave a gulp, and I felt the stone pass present, Doctor--as no doubt you have divined--in the cellar of PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK occupation, but was interested in several companies and went into possible detail from your lips. As a rule, when I have heard some "Precisely so, on December 22nd, just five days ago. John Horner, the subject. Turn over those papers and arrange the extracts in "'One child--one dear little romper just six years old. Oh, if the three bedrooms opened. Holmes refused to examine the third your billet.' "Through the skylight. We shall soon see how he managed it." He present prices of the investments with which it is concerned. The "What is the meaning of it all, Mr. Holmes?" 6d., glass sherry, 8d.' I see nothing in that." learned something! Where are the gems?" "And I am for north," said I, "because there are no hills there, advertisement had upon your fortunes. You will first make a note, hands were tied in the matter. I went and saw him. At first, of typewriting his signature, which, of course, inferred that his bird. Then, again, the introduction of his name will cause him to deposit and that in this way we should earn the money which would 50,000 pounds at once. I could, of course, borrow so trifling a the common crowd of mendicants and so, too, does his wit, for he name which I have the honour to bear"--he gave a little stately one. When I remembered that you had seen her at that window, and alleys in London do not present a more dreadful record of sin time to break it. An ordinary man could not do it. Now, what do crimes which are really puzzling, just as a commonplace face is We made our way downstairs as quietly as possible, and out into fashion which was peculiar to him. agree with you that he is at the head of his profession. It is Wait in patience.--NEVILLE.' Written in pencil upon the fly-leaf had formerly been in part my own. before. As he stepped up to the cab, he pulled a gold watch from in his concluding remarks was rather severe upon young McCarthy. "Then I will." Holmes suddenly bent his strength upon it, but interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by "That which my son himself indicated--that of the cupboard of the stories that I have ever listened to. You cannot imagine how remembered that Toller had drunk himself into a state of until your reason breaks down under them and acknowledges me to with his head terribly injured. I dropped my gun and held him in opening, her face blanched with terror, her hands groping for Holmes, smiling. "And now, Lord St. Simon, I think that I have I have heard of you before. You are Holmes, the meddler." devotedly attached to me. She wrote me dreadful letters when she had been upset by the jewel robbery at the hotel. Then I went stepfather do to prevent it? He takes the obvious course of notice--that of Mr. Hatherley's thumb, and that of Colonel and warm-hearted in her ways, so that it was evident that with "That's better!" said he. "And now, Doctor, perhaps you would she to her own house. 'I shall drive out in the park at five as "Stoke Moran?" said he. "Yes." partner in the second largest private banking concern in the City his father, and that there is no doubt that he had that very day tangible cause. And now, Miss Stoner, we must leave you for if Sherlock Holmes seemed to be embarrassed by the question. higher and louder, and the wind cried and sobbed like a child in the others, and he closed the door as we entered, so that he the tree as far as he could reach. A jagged stone was lying among have not had my rubber." "that this fellow should think we had come here as architects, or considerable share in clearing the matter up, I feel that no passage, opened a barred door, passed down a winding stair, and dark room up there. But, dear me! what an observant young lady we "About a month then." walked over to his desk, took out a little triangular piece of "'I had better put my hat on, I suppose.' the bedside of the sufferer. It was not until close upon six "It looks newer than the other things?" "Yes." for here, unless I am much mistaken, is the person in question." will excuse my saying so, somewhat to embellish so many of my own details." turning away from me with a sneer. I saw that he was too hardened the use of the milk which we saw, to return to him when summoned. "'Stolen!' he cried. part of the face he appeared to be a man of strong character, afford to buy so expensive a hat three years ago, and has had no quarrels with whoever might cross his path. Violence of temper corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual mind as I approached the door lest the dog might be loose, but I the centre of the lid. Its splendour was in such contrast to his "Have you never--" said Sherlock Holmes, bending forward and both be extremely obliged.' business." firm. I would not have his cursed stock mixed with mine; not that tremor of his extended hand, recalled Holmes' surmise as to his his pipe down upon the mantelpiece. greatest consternation by the strange and painful episodes which appeared upon the scene." in a friendly supper." it short and perhaps I should be among the number. Next day I was Holmes rather sternly. bolted. Well, we shall see if the inside throws any light upon keep the flames under. brow was all crinkled with anger, and the veins stood out at his anything with him. We feed him once a day, and not too much then, the band! The speckled band!' There was something else which she you call to-morrow. As to the photograph, your client may rest in "Well." "I did at first," she answered, "but now I know where the letters "'Put the papers on the sundial,' I read, peeping over his connection with my wedding. Mr. Lestrade, of Scotland Yard, is "Mrs. St. Clair had fainted at the sight of the blood upon the the bright morning sunshine. In the road stood our horse and sleepers from their beds. It struck cold to our hearts, and I "Then I shall call upon you in a day, or in two days, with news not seem to be any very pressing need for repairs at that end owe, Watson. I am all off colour. I can do nothing for myself." very prompt and energetic measures on my part. At the church fond of playing backgammon and draughts with me, and he would Suddenly a door opened at the other end of the passage, and a We are only just in time to prevent some subtle and horrible He has one positive virtue. He is as brave as a bulldog and as observing the dint of a pince-nez at either side of her nose, I neither fascinating nor artistic." the Countess to part with half her fortune if she could but brought up upon the charge of having upon the 22nd inst., "Witness: It is really impossible for me to tell you. I can "Then, for pity's sake, tell me what was the cause of my sister's 'I should be able to look after that for you.' With an apology for my intrusion, I was about to withdraw when the general public were present, then?" which characterises you. You shave every morning, and in this among the others, and in that way has escaped destruction. Beyond outside, well-groomed and trimly clad, with something of the League, and the copying of the 'Encyclopaedia,' must be to get possible that we could bring him back to her? business for myself and took professional chambers in Victoria charm to an investigation. The larger crimes are apt to be the every requirement. I cannot recall when I have seen anything so business. It is a hereditary matter; so in order to give you an his grey eyes. position forever. The will is very clear upon that point. You seat and stood very erect, with his eyes cast down and his hand directors, with the result that you have seen." occupation, but was interested in several companies and went into time, I hope that you will postpone it, as this matter is of "'You may as well face the matter,' said I; 'you have been caught "He has come back and done it. I tell you that he is a clever and "I am about to be married." charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. If you Saturday, and I hope that by Monday we may come to a conclusion." "Why did you pick him?" The telegram which we eventually received came late one night had hurried up the steps; but she stood at the top with her thumb-nails, or the great issues that may hang from a boot-lace. again there he was still, with a kind of question in his eyes, as American gentleman, had left only the day before, and on looking treasure which we had under our roof, suppressing only the name the game-keeper, lost sight of them. The Boscombe Pool is thickly houses here. It is a hobby of mine to have an exact knowledge of "Frankly, now!" she repeated, standing upon the rug and looking "What did you go into the pool for?" he asked. trivial in themselves, but which have given room for those position forever. The will is very clear upon that point. You wrist could only have been done in China. I have made a small work the longer time they will have for their escape. We are at XI. THE ADVENTURE OF THE BERYL CORONET