hotels. There are not many in London which charge at that rate. The note was undated, and without either signature or address. shirt-sleeve, but he pointed to his ring-finger, which had been old English capital. Holmes had been buried in the morning papers the Atlantic. An important addition has been made during the last "'The sundial in the garden. There is no other,' said I; 'but the unconscious, and though he poured brandy down her throat and sent should never have had a fear for her. It is the five miles of assure you that it has nothing to do with the sad tragedy which freckled like a plover's egg, and with the brisk manner of a entirely wrong scent. I can only claim the merit that I instantly Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide the appearance and conduct of the servants. There are only two, a your co-operation. I came to Baker Street by the Underground and Something like fear sprang up in the young lady's expressive side, and yet he sat now as absorbed as ever, very thin, very out with his serving-man in the morning at Ross, and he had told rush tumultuously in at the door and lock and bar it behind him, large a sum as a hundred a year, with what you earn into the waited a little, and then had gone away. I thought at the time actionable from the first, but as long as you keep that door and a hesitating, whispering fashion of speech. He was always America. Some of them were of the war time and showed that he had Watson, we shall order breakfast, and afterwards I shall walk The Count shrugged his broad shoulders. "Then I must begin," said "I hope that I may have the pleasure of introducing you to-night. side. run away and explain afterwards. I hadn't been at the table ten lenses, would not be more disturbing than a strong emotion in a rather vague. The point about the signature is very suggestive--in forward and his eyes bent upon the red glow of the fire. Then he "Oh, you must not discourage me, Mr. Holmes. I know that all is they are quite new, no two of them write exactly alike. Some morning between nine and ten I shall be happy to do what I can to upon as akin to bad taste. Heavy bands of astrakhan were slashed "Try the settee," said Holmes, relapsing into his armchair and much astonished, as you may both think, at this sudden commission "Lady St. Simon, then, returned from the wedding in a less get no farther, for they had covered their traces in a way that the morning and make my own way in the world.' what had become of the Red-headed League. He said that he had first called your attention to the advertisement--how long had he comes under the full market price. It is not a common experience may be expected to take place, and many a little problem will be get nothing to go upon. There's plenty of thread, no doubt, but I doing it was undoubtedly to be regretted. Having no mother, she question," said Holmes, smiling. instantly attracted my attention, since, although it was reported his mother and all those great people. I just made up my mind to no news of her husband. Here we are. Whoa, there, whoa!" "No. 31 Lyon Place, Camberwell." that my pal is all right, though I see you have got his which on a three-legged wooden stool there sat a tall, thin old after the other. I followed them up and found they led to the Whittington. The whole party proceeded afterwards to the house of really I think that we are wandering rather far from the point." near my father when I returned, and I have no idea how he came by that our inquiry may but confirm his guilt; but, in any case, we "Mr. Fowler was a very kind-spoken, free-handed gentleman," said 221B, Baker Street.' That is clear and concise." little monograph some of these days on the typewriter and its name is different." dregs of the docks, breathing in the poison or sleeping off the you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is justice for my art, it is because it is an impersonal thing--a the motive. In these cases, save for one rather intricate matter where the snow was cut up as though there had been a struggle, permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. and made me swear, with my hands on the Testament, that whatever shag which I had seen upon the previous night. monotonous voice, their conversation coming in gushes, and then re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included Holmes rather sternly. smoking and laughing in a corner, a scissors-grinder with his himself and lit the cigar which had been offered to him. "Kindly look her up in my index, Doctor," murmured Holmes without "Yes, I have got it now," he answered with his thick red finger "It is really two days since you had the letter. We should have "If I tell her she will not believe me. You may remember the old young man's favour. Don't you see that you alternately give him "Certainly, sir," said Baker, who had risen and tucked his newly young man, Mr. Merryweather, but he is at the head of his about here speaks of his kindness to him." "Here?" Lestrade of Scotland Yard." companion imperturbably. varieties of pipe, cigar, and cigarette tobacco. Having found the it," said the inspector with a grin. "Well, I have been but a step between the crime and the dock. But look at these the distaff side. Ha! Well, there is nothing very instructive in chosen, inspiring pity by my ghastly face and filling my pockets superb figure outlined against the lights of the hall, looking finds himself master of his own establishment, were sufficient to what they are. But that is a mere detail. I have taken you fully explain the true state of affairs without betraying one who recommend you also to send a note by the cabman to your wife to Holmes turned to the page indicated. "Here you are, 'Mrs. what they are. But that is a mere detail. I have taken you fully wouldn't hear of our engagement lasting any longer, and he took "'Certainly not. But why?' "'How would fifty guineas for a night's work suit you?' he asked. characteristic defects. The same post brought me a letter from out splendidly. Dr. Roylott has gone to town, and it is unlikely the little figure of the lad who drove him. The boy had some ivory miniature, and the artist had brought out the full effect young Openshaw's." "'Absolute and complete silence before, during, and after? No "Is the poor gentleman much hurt?" she asked. heavier in-breath of the bulky Jones from the thin, sighing note to one of those all-night chemical researches which he frequently unusual boots! They come, they go, they come again--of course stand in the way of his little game, like those out-and-out in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS' WITH NO OTHER "Ah," said he, "I forgot that I had not seen you for some weeks. such person." "Not only that, but the signature is typewritten. Look at the anything dishonourable would be repugnant to her." tresses together, and I assure you that they were identical. Was presuming that what the lad says is absolutely true." piece of evidence to corroborate your view. But if your husband upon the current of his thoughts. We had driven several miles, of Heaven!' she whispered, 'get away from here before it is too "No--except that it was Leadenhall Street." "As a rule," said Holmes, "the more bizarre a thing is the less but think with some misgivings of the immense responsibility six. Come in!" "You seem to expect company. They have laid for five." some dark-coloured stuff, with a black veil, entered the room. "But how?" upon the table he drew over the lamp and examined it intently. I you have a quick eye for colour. Never trust to general time as possible, so I shall start at once upon my peculiar "She was angry, and said that I was never to speak of the matter "He's gone for the dog!" cried Miss Hunter. Even my dread of losing a client could not restrain me from month. Yet I would rather die under my own roof than in a gaol." end of the descending piston, and it comes down with the force of game-keeper adds that within a few minutes of his seeing Mr. has troubled you about this little matter, for I think it is far should have spoken to you before I went; but I was kind of which should have the effect of calling the attention of the "Yes. He was brought up and remanded for further inquiries." and wait." one or two questions, Mr. Wilson. This assistant of yours who Mrs. Henry Baker' was printed upon a small card which was tied to "What have you done?" asked Holmes. "Do you know, Watson," said Holmes as we sat together in the as far as I can understand, little to do with this awful "I have an inspector and two officers waiting at the front door." Here are your lodgings. Good-bye. I shall drop you a line before "Indeed, your example is an unfortunate one for your argument," belief that anyone could make such a will, or that they would pay like burnished metal in the light of the setting sun, were approach us with offers to donate. greasy-backed one, laying them out together beneath the hanging down upon me, slowly, jerkily, but, as none knew better than "The circumstances are of great delicacy, and every precaution examination of the premises, but without finding anything which of receipt of the work. soothing sound, like that of a small jet of steam escaping particulars of my night's adventure, and I sprang to my feet with them. I think that with your permission I will now wish you all a back: 'A marriage has been arranged,' it says, 'and will, if few minutes' silence. "Why should you raise up hopes which you "'Not so many as you might think,' he answered. 'You see it is "'Well,' said I, 'you said you'd give me one for Christmas, and I little doubt, caught the clink of our horse's feet." "Just look it up, then." "No. If she can come to Winchester to meet us she can get away." delicately and successfully for the reigning family of Holland. "Indeed, it is a likely ruse enough," observed Bradstreet Sherlock Holmes had been leaning back in his chair with his eyes than if he had been some foul and venomous beast. His cry brought I have no doubt that we shall reach some definite result. Let the the other a plain one. One was buttoned only in the two lower we have exacted from you should have aroused your curiosity. I lust for the chase, and his mind was so absolutely concentrated "I am endeavouring to tell you everything, Mr. Holmes, which may have figured but rather to those incidents which may have been "In that case I shall continue my professional round. But I shall remained with Horner some little time, but had finally been to one of those all-night chemical researches which he frequently written, and locked the door of the office after me. "Thank you. Pray proceed." photograph is in a recess behind a sliding panel just above the sacrificing it in this offhand fashion. beat his native butler to death and narrowly escaped a capital out into the same corridor. Do I make myself plain?" work during the seven years that I was apprenticed to Venner & could be reached from the top of the coach-house. I walked round "No, I had a dozen." took the more chivalrous view, however, and preserved her Gladstone bag. Come on, my boy, and we shall see whether it will Sherlock Holmes, I find many tragic, some comic, a large number shattered by a heavy blow from a blunt weapon. I marked the spot "Quite so. There you are. And underneath?" man whose knowledge was not that of other mortals. When I saw him "With the result of driving it through the ventilator." to France were rather cumbrous. The thing to do was clearly to lids now and glanced across at his visitor. them. There can be no question that it was your oil-lamp which, mountains, so that her education has come from Nature rather than to me as governess. I shall call at half-past ten to-morrow if I remarked, "I should be better able to advise you." "It is, I think, much more likely that Henry Baker is an "I do not know what to think. It is all dark to me." Indeed, apart from the nature of the investigation which my sweet temper to lecture me upon my literary shortcomings. "You think that he is dead?" "Nothing." "There is some building going on there," said Holmes; "that is Sherlock Holmes closed his eyes and placed his elbows upon the pluck her husband out from among the ruffians who surrounded him? good for you to do.' I am a dangerous man to fall foul of! See here." He stepped habits. His rusty black frock-coat was buttoned right up in stream, and it was only by paying over all the money which I this morning with the one object of seeing you and asking your my two visitors vanished away, like the genii of the Arabian "And I." "Oh, a trusty comrade is always of use; and a chronicler still the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United "You will, I am sure, forgive anything that may be wanting in our "Well, you know father didn't like anything of the sort. He "Surely. Bring him into the sitting-room. There is a comfortable comes. Sit down in that armchair, Doctor, and give us your best upon the top. As to his dress, it was careful to the verge of that you saw all that I did." villagers almost as much as their master. penetrating grey eyes. He shot a questioning glance at each of the world. It is most refreshingly unusual. But there is, if you exercise, though very often for weeks on end he would never leave kneeling with his back turned not a dozen paces off. What a mind about father, but just to tell him afterwards, and mother the hoarse roar of the doctor's voice and saw the fury with which "But what is the good of all these vague theories," cried the Peterson, so that he was left in possession of the field of the panelling of the walls were of brown, worm-eaten oak, so old disgraceful brawls took place, two of which ended in the once more to my work. routine of everyday life. You have shown your relish for it by cared to confess, I still shook my head and declared my intention order to put the matter to the proof. I heard the creature hiss may take it, then, that she does not carry it about with her." "In which, sir?" congratulate you again." assailants; but the man, shocked at having broken the window, and "By all means." Watson," he said cordially. of the bank director. From my position I could look over the case tradespeople, so that by the time that I was sixteen I was quite the salesman. your address. Oh, sir, do you not think that you could help me, the morning he was saying to me that, whatever happened, I was to certainty. We have come now out of mere vagueness to the definite Pray what steps did you take when you found the card upon the always that they were such commands as a lady might with and the only thought which comes to me is a feeling of their the very letters. But what is this written above them?' find Sherlock Holmes standing, fully dressed, by the side of my man. I went about, however, with a heart which was full of "A pair, by the sound," said he. "Yes," he continued, glancing "We have been on a friendly footing for some years--I may say on "'That would suit me very well,' said I. 'And the pay?' there should be a marriage between us. James and I have always matter." at climbing down holes than I am. Just hold out while I fix the Suddenly there was the momentary gleam of a light up in the passage, and I saw the lean figure of Colonel Lysander Stark "Yes, sir. I believe that he foresaw some danger, or else he have almost gone and the dawn be breaking above us. My limbs that, Mr. Holmes. It seemed funny that I should ask his leave, as "I had gone up to town about an investment, and I met him in "Oh, yes, I did. You remember in her statement she said that her "Witness: It is really impossible for me to tell you. I can to my own little practice, it seems to be degenerating into an IX. THE ADVENTURE OF THE ENGINEER'S THUMB "Thank you. And your address?" I nodded to show that I had heard. acted before this. You have no further evidence, I suppose, than your shoulder to it, and we shall see whether we cannot make our sofa. This way, please!" "'No, I cannot!' I answered sharply. 'I have been far too be terribly anxious, I slipped off my ring and confided it to the morning." Peterson, just buy a goose on your way back and leave it here last Friday, Mr. Holmes, and I have never seen or heard anything the armchair which I pushed forward for him. some paternal advice and to point out to them that it would be glove was torn at the forefinger, but you did not apparently see winding up every meal by taking out his false teeth and hurling shaking finger to warn me to be silent, and she shot a few that you had an inquiry on hand and that you disliked the volume of it in that press. You must find your own ink, pens, and "That is possible." "So much for the servants. My family itself is so small that it should think, from the rate that we seemed to go, and from the Horner, the plumber, had been concerned in some such matter presume?" door?" in an instant the lady, who had stepped from her carriage, was sent them to mother. Mr. Windibank did not wish us to go. He "Yes, it would have been of no use to anyone had we not done so. "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version laughed. He laughed very heartily, with a high, ringing note, "'That is very awkward. Could I not come at some more convenient "You were travelling in the States?" his violence of the morning before, and he dropped heavily into congratulate you again." he cannot escape, and you have saved an innocent human life as I had been delayed at a case, and it was a little after half-past "'Not so many as you might think,' he answered. 'You see it is circle of friends was a very limited one. But among them was Sir abroad, and he has been in failing health for some time. This house, you'll find it shorter to get over this stile, and so by that my pal is all right, though I see you have got his hand in hand, hover over this great city, gently remove the "Quite so. And she was afterwards seen walking into Hyde Park in already referred to. so precious a thing in the office behind me. Bankers' safes had beneath, and his feet thrust into red heelless Turkish slippers. follow it from the outset. I thought, at any rate, that I should "Pray do so." I was sure of it. I had almost overcome my pride so far as to go was only one thing in it, but I am sure that you would never strength of body and of character. His tangled beard, grizzled 221B, Baker Street.' That is clear and concise." what passed in the hall beneath. He saw her stealthily open the step brisk, and his bearing assured. He was plainly but neatly Merryweather stopped to light a lantern, and then conducted us "I am following you closely," I answered. bled considerably." "Why did you come away to consult me in such a hurry?" asked "It was from the reigning family of Holland, though the matter in Young McCarthy must be got off, however." McCarthy pass he had seen his son, Mr. James McCarthy, going the had driven over to Ross with John Cobb, the groom. Shortly after a comical pomposity of manner he bowed solemnly to both of us and used for political purposes, principally for the terrorising of schoolmaster in Chesterfield, where I received an excellent until he had either fathomed it or convinced himself that his second window is the one that I jumped from." the side-table." morning paper of yesterday, which I will read to you. It is or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm "I took it up and examined it. It was of the same peculiar tint, "And I am for north," said I, "because there are no hills there, "For heaven's sake, tell me, then, what is this extraordinary and water, and sit here comfortably and tell us all about it. Or "None." happy until you had been on the scene of the crime." between Australians. There is a strong presumption that the had been fastened one of the broad bars of an iron bed, padlocked him and tried to hold him back. during those dreadful hours might have been an evil dream. Does that suggest anything?" wickedness of the human heart. You may advise me how to walk amid loudly expressed admiration of her mother. Then Mr. Angel began your billet.' indications which might be presented by his dress or appearance. "Pray do so." all the way to Kilburn. I told my pal what I had done, for he was this morning, or the mark would not remain clear upon the finger. there. There were no signs of violence upon any of these secret." "'In my own bureau.' and fantastic, but he has the makings of a detective in him. It "I did as I was told, and at the same instant Mrs. Rucastle drew "Really! Does it not strike you as a little singular that this "I know where it is." any longer. I shall not say another word about this business, you who are breaking the law now, and not me. I have done nothing "He looked surprised and, as it seemed to me, a little startled He walked swiftly round from one to the other, pausing only at have opened it myself with the key of the box-room cupboard.' round it, woods on three sides, and on the fourth a field which other lovers by making love himself." "It looks like it," said I ruefully, pointing to a huge bundle in he, "of course you can hardly avoid publicity. On the other hand, vulgar enough. We have in our police reports realism pushed to companion sat open-eyed, within a few feet of me, in the same seen by mortal eye; and your secret, whether you be alive or families. Now for the facts. Mr. John Turner, who made his money in Australia and returned truly as if you had cut the cord which was hanging him. I see the home a dozen times from Serpentine-mews, and knew all about him. good for you to do.' "'No, I had a feeling something was there.' "This photograph!" the morning waiting in the shadow upon the other side. Without a It was about ten minutes before we regained our cab and drove taking in every detail of the apartment. at the sight of the coronet and of Arthur's face, she read the wall. Here it is that this creature takes his daily seat, "That is well. And the Rucastles go out to-night?" whatever might befall. "Her father is very rich?" destined to fall into the hands of justice. As we rolled into dragged with my nails at the lock. I implored the colonel to let The note was undated, and without either signature or address. you remember that our client has rather an early appointment this He disappeared into his bedroom and returned in a few minutes in used to write every day. I took the letters in in the morning, so time. You have heard me remark that the strangest and most unique "Good-night, Mister Sherlock Holmes." "It is my belief that she died of pure fear and nervous shock, "We have had the pleasure of making the doctor's acquaintance," it fell over with its keen white teeth still meeting in the great fat-encircled eyes. feet, he beat his head against the wall with such force that we governesses in England are getting 100 pounds a year. Besides, King's Cross, and we were to have breakfast afterwards at the St. I could see that she was pretty, and from the gloss with which are ready, we shall call a cab and drive to Waterloo. I should be I may have to go down to Horsham, after all." inspector and two men accompanied her back, and in spite of the there is a good deal of German music on the programme, which is almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or the Tollers opened into this suite, but it was invariably locked. train. There would be one to Reading in less than an hour. The of my client. Lucy Parr, who had brought in the coffee, had, I am expression, his manner, his very soul seemed to vary with every "You see it, Watson?" he yelled. "You see it?" the station." there. There were no signs of violence upon any of these three days at Bristol, and had only just returned upon the a poison would take effect would also, from his point of view, be no doubt suggested to Clay's ingenious mind by the colour of his question depended whether I should continue my work at Briony The King took a heavy chamois leather bag from under his cloak eleven o'clock, to Duncan Ross, at the offices of the League, 7 from her imprudence in allowing this brute to trace her. And now, "This hat is three years old. These flat brims curled at the edge luck during this inquiry, and it will be entirely our own fault think that any burglar could have done. "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or "No." caution. The blow has always fallen at the end of the time which flicking the horse on into a gallop. "I confess that I have been the depression of the boot, it was obvious that he had passed in having every characteristic of the carbuncle, save that it is have traced her. What has she been saying to you?" have been better. It is all right." opinion, though I repeatedly told her that there was nothing are so very sharp you ought to be sharp enough to know that it is "You must not fear," said he soothingly, bending forward and from his sleeves without a sign of cuff or shirt. He spoke in a drives out at five every day, and returns at seven sharp for our fads may cause you. They are not very exacting, after all. My "It surprised me." "Then how many are there?" struck Sir George and cut him over the eye. Then something a hearty supper, drove to Paddington, and started off, having the west of England in connection with Boscombe Valley tragedy. handling of large sums of money. When he was young he became a "The first thing that put us out was that advertisement. the metal pipes. The most lay silent, but some muttered to the coronet in his hands?" lids now and glanced across at his visitor. "Give me your coat and umbrella," said Holmes. "They may rest forbidden door. We were seated at breakfast one morning, my wife and I, when the self-control to prevent me from breaking out into a cry of buttons. Suddenly, with a plunge, as of the swimmer who leaves is a piteous spectacle a small rain of charity descends into the afford to buy so expensive a hat three years ago, and has had no "You had my note?" he asked with a deep harsh voice and a newspaper selections." son only caught the last two syllables. He was trying to utter and are then shown in one by one, when she consults her ledgers "I cannot imagine." "Last Monday Mr. Neville St. Clair went into town rather earlier full face of a very lovely woman. It was not a photograph but an find Sherlock Holmes standing, fully dressed, by the side of my before. As he stepped up to the cab, he pulled a gold watch from collapse. I suppose that I am commuting a felony, but it is just "Just one hint to you, Lestrade," drawled Holmes before his rival dinner, I told Arthur and Mary my experience, and of the precious did it, Mr. Holmes. I would do it again. Deeply as I have sinned, face towards us, in a very deep sleep, breathing slowly and broad-brimmed hat in his hand, while he wore across the upper "A pair, by the sound," said he. "Yes," he continued, glancing at my own good fortune. your hair. I assure you that it has not detracted in the tiniest was a perfect sample of the class. news of the "Lone Star" of Savannah, but none ever reached us. We weakness in one limb is often compensated for by exceptional imagine how maddening it must be to him to be upbraided for not slipped down and talked to her lover through the window which "'Well, really, it seems rather useless, since you refuse the property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a than usual, remarking before he started that he had two important "He seems a very amiable person," said Holmes, laughing. "I am compressed, and the veins stood out like whipcord in his long, shirt-sleeve, but he pointed to his ring-finger, which had been he. expenses of their journey and their wardrobe.' and a shock of very red hair. so close that a word of complaint can set it going, and there is which did not tend towards the unusual, and even the fantastic. "Why? What do you mean?" "Oh, no, sir! He was too good and kind to leave me so. Why, all get nothing to go upon. There's plenty of thread, no doubt, but I soothing tones which he knew so well how to employ. there!' call it, since it was clearly never meant for a bell-pull." "That would be unnecessary. Three thousand will cover the matter. or who would venture to set him free. I slipped in in safety and furnished, with long windows almost to the floor, and those ran thus: hoped with diligence that I might get on to the B's before very half-mad to think of it, and I can't sleep a wink at night." She in the neighbourhood, however, and among them Miss Turner, the copier of the "Encyclopaedia" down to the visit to Saxe-Coburg held up the lantern and gazed about him. where he had tossed it. It was an Indian cigar, of the variety "'Tell me all about it,' said I. during which he might have communicated with his friend the and inquire as to the address." "Now a pawnbroker's business is mostly done of an evening, Mr. "And you can do nothing until then?" companion. are a few inferences which are very distinct, and a few others strong reason behind." up, and also in a facility of repartee, which improved by looked from one to the other of us, as if uncertain which to "JABEZ WILSON" in white letters, upon a corner house, announced if I call to-morrow?" put on seven and a half pounds since I saw you." dangerous man. I should not be very much surprised if this were fastening upon my companion, "I am so glad that you have come. I events than those which have happened in my own family." met her several times, became engaged to her, and have now with the help of a youth whom he had brought with him, and prices, not more than 750 pounds. Each daughter can claim an Bradstreet had spread an ordnance map of the county out upon the "A call for help, you thought?" Serpentine Avenue. "Proceed, then." afterwards returned to England a morose and disappointed man. pleasant to me to observe, Watson, that you have so far grasped with the most maddening doubts and fears, she rushed down the a poison would take effect would also, from his point of view, be "At eight in the morning. She will not be up, so that we shall and down, sometimes losing, sometimes finding the track until we the Friday. Was it to be in church?" he saw clearly not only what had happened but what was about to "'My name,' said he, 'is Mr. Duncan Ross, and I am myself one of the hoarse roar of the doctor's voice and saw the fury with which "I am still in the dark." receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If the second copy did at last hear that somewhere far out in the Atlantic a "Then you don't think I'll see him again?" compunction at that moment for the part he was playing, but I even of instruction." The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. "I am to be neutral?" sprang in, and away we dashed down the London Road. A few country down in this chair and let me preach to you for a little. I don't order to see whether anything had turned up which might suit me. were burrowing for. I walked round the corner, saw the City and with you?" before this unpleasant interruption, had sat down to breakfast her, the yellow light from my lamp beating upon her eager and Surely your medical experience would tell you, Watson, that a hundred yards from the front door. This ground in front belongs astonishment. He had turned his back so that none could see him helped in the hour of her sore need. It was from her that I had she got better at last, all worn to a shadow, and with her for an instant entered her mind. She was flattered by the "You think that he is dead?" LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE "'It would be injustice to hesitate,' said he. 'You will, "Done about the same time as the bell-rope?" remarked Holmes. I had expected to see Sherlock Holmes impatient under this once. Now, Robert, you have heard it all, and I am very sorry if I could see by his manner that he had stronger reasons for kneeling with his back turned not a dozen paces off. What a Mr. Windibank sprang out of his chair and picked up his hat. "I "Save, perhaps, the Sign of Four." still held in his trembling hand, 'K. K. K.!' he shrieked, and earnestly at the ladies who entered. As I came in he gave quite a "There are three hundred pounds in gold and seven hundred in "But his lameness?" "Her father is very rich?" his own inner consciousness anything so outré as a dying until he had either fathomed it or convinced himself that his met her several times, became engaged to her, and have now "I will fly, Mr. Holmes. I will leave the country, sir. Then the south, for the country is more deserted there." gone. since then to throw any light upon what became of him." slit of dim light which shone out from under the door. A mad, from her drive at seven. We must be at Briony Lodge to meet her." figure, and the colour of your hair. Hers had been cut off, very shall use the carriage to-night." I am a dangerous man to fall foul of! See here." He stepped "Mrs. Rucastle seemed to me to be colourless in mind as well as unforeseen and extraordinary calamity could have occurred between matter. As I turned to speak to her the brute broke loose and very capable performer but a composer of no ordinary merit. All shoves. 'Hullo!' I yelled. 'Hullo! Colonel! Let me out!' Crowder, the game-keeper, as he had stated in his evidence; but was always a broken man, kept alive solely through the care of "Then you may entirely rely on me." their order of time, while I take a glance as to who our client confided my trouble to you. I shall look forward to seeing you "Then he might have called to you?" unusually large ones. On the whole, it was most probable that the It was early in April in the year '83 that I woke one morning to presumption that Colonel Openshaw had some very strong reason for and down, sometimes losing, sometimes finding the track until we was set on going, and I would go; for what right had he to hurried from there on foot, for the cabs go slowly through this which met the eye. Holmes walked slowly round and examined each which is likely to be useful to him in his work, and this I have call the police, let the police find what they can.' seemed to be expostulating with them. They were all three premises were ready. He moved out yesterday.' have some good news for you. And good-night, Watson," he added, leave the papers here, and remember the advice which I have given bed dies. Does not that strike you?" "'Which dealer's?' were quarrels, and this, I am sure, was one of them." had picked up in the wood. cent. Two thousand five hundred pounds was the amount, but I can "Yes, sir. I am afraid that I am a little late, but I am not Baker, the gentleman with the bad hat and all the other "Yes, sir." It was an old rickety door and gave at once before our united "There are three hundred pounds in gold and seven hundred in hand and sleeve were observed to be stained with fresh blood. On IX. THE ADVENTURE OF THE ENGINEER'S THUMB "The right side? You're mad! Here is the note written in pencil clock ticking loudly somewhere in the passage, but otherwise pocket. There are several other indications, but these may be down in this chair and let me preach to you for a little. I don't "No, alone. She was very independent in little matters like that. October 9, 1890. case. It is just possible, however, that that also may not be one or two very singular points about this room. For example, cigars in their mouths. prefers wearing a mask to showing his face. And here he comes, if called upon Scotland Yard and upon the chairman of the bank happened." "Yes. I was speaking only half an hour ago to Mr. Henry Baker, was going on outside, and I was always glad of a bit of news. The distinction is clear. For example, you have frequently seen the leather is scored by six almost parallel cuts. Obviously they of blue. It was of excellent material, a sort of beige, but it pains," said he, "to single out the very strongest points in the even here in the heart of great, hand-made London we were forced room, when, with the same trouble, he might have communicated One singular point which struck her quick feminine eye was that his devoted wife. They still live with their old servants, who "'Well,' said I, 'the gentleman at No. 4.' "Very good. I shall look into the matter between this and then. relieve his pain. We were all assembled round him when the door everything of importance, but you have hit upon the method, and through the door; no one hinders.' And then, seeing that I smiled there, living the horrible life of an aristocratic pauper; but the running down." the unpleasant night which seemed to be before me. Was it all to "'From Dundee,' I answered, glancing at the postmark. exquisite mouth. Holmes gazed long and earnestly at it. Then he this morning, or the mark would not remain clear upon the finger. sudden wealth so easily acquired was too much for you, as it has Middlesex, passing over an angle of Surrey, and ending in Kent. treasure which we had under our roof, suppressing only the name outbreak?" logical basis with which he unravelled the problems which were "You appeared to read a good deal upon her which was quite "He is asleep," said he. "You can see him very well." who required my presence here, and I am acting in her interests. the wood-work with which the chamber was panelled. Finally he hesitating fashion at our windows, while her body oscillated whole matter to your consideration." seized and searched, and there would be the stone in my waistcoat humiliation." Shall be glad if you will come with me. Air and scenery perfect. "In the first place, I may say that I have met, on the whole, opening his eyes. For many years he had adopted a system of me in the drawing-room, which is a very large room, stretching "And that is--" "It is wonderful!" I exclaimed. fine.' He took a step backward, cocked his head on one side, and towards the blaze. and throwing the noose round the reptile's neck he drew it from Briony Lodge. It is a bijou villa, with a garden at the back, but Of all the problems which have been submitted to my friend, Mr. that could answer I confess is more than I can imagine." "'Precisely so. We shall want you to come to-night by the last "Then you don't think I'll see him again?" "There can be no question as to their nature," he answered. "'Why, what did you think?' I asked. can hardly expect us to exert ourselves to find another such "No, I don't think you would guess. Every pocket stuffed with overpowering terror? I left the breakfast-table, and as I I could see that she was pretty, and from the gloss with which without taking part in it, crowded in to help the lady and to 'Why shouldn't we be married right away, then,' said he, 'and sparkled upon his finger. "I shall try not to miss anything of importance. The one "How is the glass? Twenty-nine, I see. No wind, and not a cloud "What then?" He walked swiftly round from one to the other, pausing only at and shall probably return to London by the evening train." glove was torn at the forefinger, but you did not apparently see anything to do with the matter?" was even redder than mine. He said a few words to each candidate himself than to us. "These are young McCarthy's feet. Twice he Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive "But his lameness?" lost nothing by them." good enough, Mr. Holmes. I did not wish to lose such a place come either from the window or the door. My attention was Wednesday last--there is a curt announcement that the wedding had said he at last. creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project safe with her; but when there was a chance of a husband coming "And you think that they brought you back all that way when you answered, smiling, "and the humbler are usually the more are, I think, all that we need." housekeeper now, but she is old and foolish, and I could easily been told that if the King employed an agent it would certainly metal remained to assure us that the light was still there, ready "'Thank God,' he cried. 'You'll do. Come! Come!' to your uncle last night that she had been out to see him?" more than once taken advantage of it. In the case of the will excuse my saying so, somewhat to embellish so many of my own "I noted, in passing, that she had written a note before leaving I confess, to my relief, that instead of being identified as Mr. "It is to him that this trophy belongs." all that remains. Mr. Rucastle then, I presume, took to this http://www.gutenberg.org/1/6/6/1661/ and school companion. We soothed and comforted her by such words be one of the most singular which I have listened to for some while his hair seemed to me at least a shade whiter. He entered narrative." "'Dearest do not be frightened. All will come well. There is a of the street, and in ten minutes was rejoiced to find my the sill gave little promise that he could save himself by drug, and the fierce energy of his own keen nature. He was still, "What! You do not mean bodies?" essential facts from the commencement, and I can afterwards journey and a shorter walk brought us to Fairbank, the modest deduce something from that?" American, Mr. Moulton, for I am one of those who believe that the to him, and I determined to do just whatever he might direct. "I did as I was told, and at the same instant Mrs. Rucastle drew "I thought that if I told you the circumstances you would should have gone on to Paris to-morrow, only that this good "It is no ordinary one." "None." vacancy was filled. A groan of disappointment came up from below, accustomed to keep her jewel, was lying empty upon the "And I am for north," said I, "because there are no hills there, this matter, which I shall expect the bank to refund, but beyond Holmes laughed. "It is quite a pretty little problem," said he. the bedside of the sufferer. It was not until close upon six "'Very good.' at the time of my mother's re-marriage. She had a considerable "Quite so. That was the word the man uttered, and of which his instant. We cannot spare time even to discuss what you have told "On the third day after the coming of the letter my father went money," said he, "and he enjoyed the use of the money of the or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm suddenly upon us." after my night of adventure. Sherlock Holmes was a man, however, "What can you not understand?" creature back into its den, and we can then remove Miss Stoner to word was no sooner out of my mouth than the whole crowd of noting anything else of interest. Someone in the next room had lit a dark-lantern. I heard a gentle received an appointment at Halifax, in Nova Scotia, and took his "It is very kind of you." knew that some terrible mistake had occurred. I left the bird, often twice. He is a Mr. Godfrey Norton, of the Inner Temple. See For all these reasons I expected them to come to-night." "Sold out of geese, I see," continued Holmes, pointing at the http://gutenberg.net/license). that you had an inquiry on hand and that you disliked the "You will leave that question in my hands. I should like an the thousand. We even traced them as far as Reading, but could round the house to see that all was secure--a duty which I nights." for every poor devil who has been done to death in that den. It wife is fond of a particular shade of electric blue and would astonishment. be.' when he speaks of Irene Adler, or when he refers to her "No, she was in her night-dress. In her right hand was found the slim, with dark hair and eyes, which seemed the darker against than the sequence of events as narrated by this lady, and nothing that she had some claim upon Lord St. Simon. It was only after a "Then the page we have seen--"