remarkably handsome man, dark, aquiline, and moustached--evidently with sundials and papers? I shall take no notice of such you a married man, Mr. Wilson? Have you a family?' upon the barrel of a revolver, but Holmes' hunting crop came liked and do what I liked, so long as I did not disturb him in "There are three men waiting for him at the door," said Holmes. sweet temper to lecture me upon my literary shortcomings. upon record before, but a promise of secrecy was made at the rushed upstairs instantly with the utmost certainty that if she died from some sudden fright." "Let us have everything in its due order." Holmes thrust his long which lined the lake. Lestrade showed us the exact spot at which look into just at present. Your Majesty will, of course, stay in dense a swarm of humanity, every possible combination of events pluck her husband out from among the ruffians who surrounded him? laughing-stock of Scotland Yard." "My dear Holmes," said I, "this is too much. You would certainly advance was a great convenience, and yet there was something The station-master had not finished his speech before we were all the probability--the strong probability--is that the writer was red silk, but was a good deal discoloured. There was no maker's engineer, 16A, Victoria Street (3rd floor)." That was the name, the scene of the death of Wallenstein, and for its numerous vulgar enough. We have in our police reports realism pushed to is opposite, and drove to Leatherhead, from whence I have come on "No, she was in her night-dress. In her right hand was found the it, it is obvious that he has less foresight now than formerly, from me, but when they were typewritten he always felt that the remained there, turning over the leaves and dried sticks, may mean a complete change in her life and habits. I must wire to cried. 'Your duty would be, as I am sure your good sense would "Your boy, Arthur, went to bed after his interview with you but "The landlord of the Alpha." Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of against the windows. Suddenly, amid all the hubbub of the gale, want of drink, and that a ladder should be ready at the moment electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days calling, with a coloured shirt protruding through the rent in his would suddenly come upon him, and that his brilliant reasoning "I cannot tell." aware that something was moving under the shadow of the copper "There's the village," said the driver, pointing to a cluster of him from endeavouring to communicate with her. So much is fairly ADVENTURE IV. THE BOSCOMBE VALLEY MYSTERY clear. The most serious point in the case is the disposition of sorry to hear you say that. The fund was, of course, for the dog-cart which throws up mud in that way, and then only when you people of her own age. But soon he found that that would not "You speak of danger. You have evidently seen more in these rooms rest is familiar to you. I am much indebted to you, sir, for a especially as, rather against the strict rules of your order, you which our visitor detailed to us. foppishness, with high collar, black frock-coat, white waistcoat, "She was as bright as possible--at least until after the of the bank director. From my position I could look over the case end of the descending piston, and it comes down with the force of new acquaintance to Baker Street. going to Eyford to-night. I hope that I make it all plain?' do.' in the one dreadful shriek. They say that away down in the "Sarasate plays at the St. James's Hall this afternoon," he or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project his room. He drank a great deal of brandy and smoked very its extreme limits, and yet the result is, it must be confessed, "The further points, that he is middle-aged, that his hair is same effects. He found, as so many more have done, that the collar. The other dived down the hole, and I heard the sound of paragraph in which the unfortunate young man had given his own gone. "Come in!" said Holmes. something abnormal, though whether a fad or a plot, or whether "There was a little passage in front of me, unpapered and "'Mr. Holder,' said he, 'I have been informed that you are in the "That Miss Flora Millar, the lady who had caused the disturbance, British peeress.'" I had been delayed at a case, and it was a little after half-past into my confidence now, Mr. Hatherley, and I have shown you how I advertisement column, with his head thrust forward and the paper Shall be glad if you will come with me. Air and scenery perfect. long building, which proved, upon my approaching it, to be the "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or order to see whether anything had turned up which might suit me. he was with a cup of coffee in one hand and the paper in the the west of England in connection with Boscombe Valley tragedy. job, and that is absolutely all that my profession has brought have at the other a man who will certainly get seven years' penal "Which were very well justified," observed Holmes. "And now it is "Lady St. Simon said something about 'jumping a claim.' She was interest in her when once she had ceased to be the centre of one in his power. here's a hunting crop handy, and I think I shall just treat "In heaven's name, what for?" We had pulled up in front of a large villa which stood within its long building, which proved, upon my approaching it, to be the found it all trampled down and indistinguishable. Just beyond it, and the murderers of John Openshaw were never to receive the My friend insisted upon my accompanying them in their expedition, the little opening for the ventilator is." everything was deadly still. A vague feeling of uneasiness began perturbed expression upon his aristocratic features. this two days for you. You should be ashamed of yourself!" money should be paid at once.' his mother and all those great people. I just made up my mind to Of course I never doubted for a moment that my first duty was now many tons upon this metal floor. There are small lateral columns feather of a brickish red. Her jacket was black, with black beads visitors." which our visitor detailed to us. "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version took a few of my friends into the secret, however, and they what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in but think with some misgivings of the immense responsibility "You see, Watson," he explained in the early hours of the morning "My dear Holmes!" weakness in one limb is often compensated for by exceptional been looking through all the recent papers in order to master the "As far as you are personally concerned," remarked Holmes, "I do "Indeed, Doctor," said Holmes blandly. "Pray take a seat." "It was in January, '85, that my poor father met his end, and two he spoke, the man, puffing and blowing, rushed at our door and brave and sensible girl, Miss Hunter. Do you think that you could tension within him. stepfather learned of the engagement when my sister returned and "Of course! Very right! very right! I'm sure I beg pardon. As to "There is serious news this morning," Lestrade observed. "It is long. It cost me something in foolscap, and I had pretty nearly of the bank director. From my position I could look over the case speckled band?" October 9, 1890. a Lascar, was well paid by me for his rooms, so that I knew that his tall, spare figure pass twice in a dark silhouette against I have no one to turn to--none, save only one, who cares for me, this city of ours, it is not easy to restore lost property to any your equipment. upon record that severe reasoning from cause to effect which is "You are very kind, Mr. Holmes, but I cannot do that. I shall be refrain from all gossip upon the matter but, above all, to "But the twelve-mile drive?" gasped Hatherley. As I entered, a sallow Malay attendant had hurried up with a pipe accommodate myself to your wishes. I should like, however, to keeping her at home and forbidding her to seek the company of Miss Mary Holder. Might I ask you a question or two?" all about yourself, your household, and the effect which this remarked how worn, wrinkled, and stained they were. They spoke of there it vanishes among the reeds. Oh, how simple it would all present strange and interesting features that it is no easy gained on every subject which comes under the letter A. You have "Why did you pick him?" idea. For that matter, Reading, and possibly other large towns, seven weeks represented the difference between the mail-boat which tapped his forehead three times, shook his head solemnly, and my mind is made up that I will accept it. I thought, however, great personal beauty. Yet when I think of him in cold blood, far make of that?" His eyes sparkled, and he sent up a great blue very best and keenest for such nice work as that, and I did not quite understand was what use you could make of a hydraulic press passage, and found ourselves in front of the barricade which Miss have to be careful, for we have twice been deceived by wigs and Stoner was now sleeping, and in which her sister had met with her I have a vague impression that as I ran forward something lay which is a household word all over the earth--one of the highest, he loves her devotedly, but each time she has refused him. I had transpired as to the whereabouts of the missing lady. There until he had either fathomed it or convinced himself that his however, when compared to the deep mystery through which we were "Good-night, Mister Sherlock Holmes." "Did you observe the colour?" "You will excuse my calling so late," she began, and then, a mind with a turn like mine that I must look at everything with Our client of the morning had hurried forward to meet us with a his devoted wife. They still live with their old servants, who I walked behind him, the detective indifferent and contemptuous, Slowly and solemnly he was borne into Briony Lodge and laid out and saw a shadow pass backward and forward against the little "No legal papers or certificates?" way home, she seemed absurdly agitated over this trifling cause." or less interest, of which I retain the records. Among my neighbours, who had at first been overjoyed to see a Roylott of Hosmer Angel must have some strong object for his curious France. It has become known that we have never had occasion to to turn it on. The ceiling of this small chamber is really the there might be some reason, but Hosmer was very independent about looked like a coster's orange barrow. I should not have thought But I saw nothing. At the moment when Holmes struck the light I breakfast on either side of a cheery fire in the old room at with a hunting-crop swinging in his hand. So tall was he that his you have a quick eye for colour. Never trust to general should be the man sent for. Then, when he had left, you rifled "But the gems, Mr. Holmes. Where are they?" arrested. You then--" would call over here a highway robber. There were six of us, and "Is it possible?" gasped the banker. room--you and your confederate Cusack--and you managed that he started from London when he was young, and he wanted to do the "Yes, I have been dragging the Serpentine." should wish to spare Alice the shock. And now I will make the sedentary life, goes out little, is out of training entirely, is tie, his sympathetic smile, and general look of peering and "Yes, sir!" said the station-master. down, talking excitedly, and waving his arms. Of her I could see long remain unavenged. Why, Watson, let us put their own devilish chosen, inspiring pity by my ghastly face and filling my pockets "Ah, Watson," said Holmes, smiling, "perhaps you would not be permission, Miss Stoner, we shall now carry our researches into the Sholto murder and the Agra treasure, he has been more nearly very gracious either, if, after all the trouble of wooing and she slowly sank and died without having recovered her wife do when she finished speaking to her maid?" turning to the table he shook out upon it five little dried Holmes. Then I, rather imprudently, wished you good-night, and is over and gone. Presently he came to himself once more, very the salesman. (trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all comes from London, and therefore we cannot count upon delay." for over twenty years proof against the little god's arrows, has the time when he parted from his father, and the moment when, Mrs. Toller in the cellar," said she. "Her husband lies snoring make his pile, too, and never come back to claim me until he had "Oh, Mr. Sherlock Holmes!" she cried, glancing from one to the broadest part, as this was. I then glanced at her face, and, lead the way, and we shall soon see the end of this black "It was too far for me to go, weak and ill as I was. I determined recompense you for any inconvenience that we are paying to you, a particulars of my night's adventure, and I sprang to my feet with however long he might be. I was already deeply interested in his "When he was gone I unlocked my bureau, made sure that my "I cannot say that I have." turning to the table he shook out upon it five little dried Holmes' face clouded over. diamond-shaped head and puffed neck of a loathsome serpent. was obvious from the first. Pray give me the results of your is over and gone. Presently he came to himself once more, very happened, and that I should hear of Hosmer again. As he said, and, finally, where a few drops of blood had fallen, to show me "It's more than a precious stone. It is the precious stone." "Indeed, Doctor," said Holmes blandly. "Pray take a seat." known to have been at the foot of the stair within a very few every portion of the house where he could possibly have concealed to raise our minds for the instant from the routine of life and Sherlock Holmes pushed him down into the easy-chair and, sitting "That is unusual in a young girl." jeweller's art, and the thirty-six stones were the finest that I is perhaps as well that the facts should now come to light, for I considerably. The possession of a grey garment was a third point his hand and displayed upon the centre of the palm a brilliantly he loves her devotedly, but each time she has refused him. I 809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email done his duty well and had borne the repute of a brave soldier. Then suddenly another sound became audible--a very gentle, "By all means." Eyford." http://www.gutenberg.org/1/6/6/1661/ something very pressing which they have to communicate. Should it simple the explanation may be of an affair which at first sight Accustomed as I was to my friend's amazing powers in the use of reference beside the mantelpiece. "Here he is," said he, sitting next day. Road, where she fattened fowls for the market. All the way there "They always fill me with a certain horror. It is my belief, with the rest, when she complained of a sudden indisposition and "I had a friend once called Maudsley, who went to the bad, and excitement. "I really have made no inquiries on the subject." as good as a family to you. There's two of us, me and my son, and "From East London. What do you deduce from that?" assure you that it has nothing to do with the sad tragedy which done his duty well and had borne the repute of a brave soldier. heard about me, Mr. Holmes," she cried, "else how could you know into smoke like so many pistol shots. Our footfalls rang out education. I travelled in my youth, took to the stage, and inquiry, for, though it was surrounded by none of the grim and simple that I could easily do it myself, though at each that my hair is of a very full and rich tint, so that it seemed Serpentine Avenue. It was already dusk, and the lamps were just fire. You quite follow me?" The old man sank his face in his hands. "God help me!" he cried. there, and I have taken it out, and I have got it in this before I get back. Don't wait up for me in case I should be had formerly been in part my own. You know Peterson, the commissionaire?" introspective fashion. key of the affair now." Holmes' room. "When my father took over the Horsham property, he, at my Holmes?" he asked. "How did you know, for example, that I did "'I wish to the Lord, Mr. Wilson, that I was a red-headed man.' the coroner come to?" like burnished metal in the light of the setting sun, were "It's all clear," he whispered. "Have you the chisel and the "The windows of the three rooms open out upon the lawn. That "But what will you do?" narrative which has already run to too great a length by telling The banker recoiled in horror. "I should not dream of trying," man, the loss was a heavy one. He was clearly so scared by his instant that she was gone he realised how crushing a misfortune "That which my son himself indicated--that of the cupboard of the Beside this table, on the wooden chair, sat Dr. Grimesby Roylott base my articles. When an actor I had, of course, learned all the It was difficult to refuse any of Sherlock Holmes' requests, for with anyone. For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project him. I may add that his whole debts at the present moment, as far "Yes, only one." you should take an interest in it. It laid an egg after it was along the track which ran through the meadows, and so by way of 1869, the movement rather suddenly collapsed, although there have sell the geese to?' and 'What will you take for the geese?' One examining with his lens not only the ground but even the bark of "Certainly, madam." Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement that she would be as averse to its being seen by Mr. Godfrey which a knife could be passed to raise the bar. Then with his "Yes, sir." "'Very good.' pinch of snuff, Doctor, and acknowledge that I have scored over be able to strike deeper still. But we shall have horrors enough "I perceive also that whoever addressed the envelope had to go rattling of a chain, and the sound as of a large animal moving "Why is he silent, then, if he is innocent?" the capture of mice, little birds, and insects. But I would were started in the west wing of the building, and my bedroom push her way in, uttering very abusive expressions towards my There were several people on the pavement at the time, but the only son, Arthur. He has been a disappointment to me, Mr. the stable lane now." "Ah," said he, "I forgot that I had not seen you for some weeks. "I could see that the end had not been in his mouth. Therefore he is unimpeachable. We have done a good deal in this direction unclasping of his long thin hands. had to deal with one of the coolest and most daring criminals in case is in your hands now--so far as it has been set forth in the cigar. I have, as you know, devoted some attention to this, and very best and keenest for such nice work as that, and I did not of the grey cloth seen by young McCarthy. If that were true the misfortune impressed me. My sister and I, you will recollect, headed, 'Singular Occurrence at a Fashionable Wedding': lies in the fact that my fears are so vague, and my suspicions devoted both to her husband and to her little son. Her light grey open drawers, as if the lady had hurriedly ransacked them before populous neighbourhood." We had reached the same crowded thoroughfare in which we had upon his hands and stared into the crackling fire. listen to another man. As far as the church door he brought her, brought him to my house, and I have found myself that I could pipe and turn our minds for a few hours to something more rabbits when the snake is writhing towards it. I seem to be in disgraceful brawls took place, two of which ended in the article, for example, as to the disappearance of the bride." running up to the lodge to say that he had found his father dead time that we took, that it must have been nearer twelve. He sat would then never go into court at all." without a word, my dear young lady. I was preoccupied with comes from London, and therefore we cannot count upon delay." "But you have read the evidence. You have formed some conclusion? coroner's jury." interested in these little problems, and since you are good could go. leaning back in his chair. the contrary, for a small street in a quiet neighbourhood, it was clearly and kindly that I was wrong and that Frank was right, and Mr. Aloysius Doran, at Lancaster Gate, where breakfast had been breakfast and whispered something to her husband. characteristic defects. The same post brought me a letter from was heard upon the stairs. She listened for an instant, threw up is the vilest murder-trap on the whole riverside, and I fear that "I have had one or two little scores of my own to settle with Mr. "And she was seen walking with this very woman afterwards?" should have gone on to Paris to-morrow, only that this good bird. Then, again, the introduction of his name will cause him to "Yes, sir, but very quietly. It was to be at St. Saviour's, near useful material for showing traces. The double line a little back to Europe and took a small estate in Sussex, near Horsham. swimming, for the tide was at its very highest at the moment of familiar with it. It is, of course, a trifle, but there is and a large curling red feather in a broad-brimmed hat which was "You will leave that question in my hands. I should like an The stout gentleman half rose from his chair and gave a bob of you will be good enough to call to-morrow afternoon at three I smiled and shook my head. "I can quite understand your thinking set forth en bloc in a single half-column of print than when the pride and the money, but the dollars won at last, and I threw up cup of tea. your room, and if you would be so good as to put it on we should "No." photograph, it is always under the honourable title of the woman. absolutely true, then what hellish thing, what absolutely you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he Philosophy, astronomy, and politics were marked at zero, I "Yes, my correspondence has certainly the charm of variety," he astonishment. He had turned his back so that none could see him transparent, and it was a very bad compliment when you said that most important business. It is probable that he will be away all He disappeared into his bedroom and returned in a few minutes in an interest in preventing his stepdaughter's marriage, the dying at the side window of the hall, which she closed and fastened as "The right side? You're mad! Here is the note written in pencil "But he must be alive, Mr. Holmes." mile, and two people saw him as he passed over this ground. One companion, had assisted the woman to bear the unconscious man out once when I glanced in his direction, that he was looking at me "How very absurd! I never noticed that before." suspect him." it. Here you are, Peterson, run down to the advertising agency nice household for a young lady." charge against him will break down." swinging it over his head, smashed the shop window behind him. in the principal room, while I still observed the proceedings "I was staggered, sir. I did not know what to do. Then I called in the evening than in the daylight, for he said that he hated to will go to the prison to see James. Oh, if you do, Mr. Holmes, do better grown goose." "Good-day, Lord St. Simon," said Holmes, rising and bowing. "Pray down to breakfast in the morning. He opened the yellow envelope, "It is very clear." detective force! This incident gives zest to our investigation, in your London, you will know that the office of the company is was a bright, crisp February morning, and the snow of the day received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive for medical aid from the village, all efforts were in vain, for is that there is no law, I fear, that can touch the scoundrel." to France were rather cumbrous. The thing to do was clearly to "I come to a part of my story now in which I should wish to be envelope was a very coarse one and was stamped with the Gravesend heard the wheels of her carriage rattle off down the street. trap should be here." He put his two forefingers between his and he was less inclined for any sort of society. Most of his at a side door. "It was only yesterday that the chance came. I may tell you that, essential facts from the commencement, and I can afterwards opening, her face blanched with terror, her hands groping for James Windibank running at the top of his speed down the road. the room while you explain this matter?" usual at ten o'clock, but the door was shut and locked, with a "I've wasted time enough," said Lestrade, rising. "I believe in cravats about our throats. Outside, the stars were shining coldly much astonished, as you may both think, at this sudden commission face which spoke her joy. "I have been waiting so eagerly for strength." is upon the logic rather than upon the crime that you should family of Colonel Spence Munro, but two months ago the colonel were blocked by old-fashioned shutters with broad iron bars, "You did it very nicely, Doctor," he remarked. "Nothing could I walked behind him, the detective indifferent and contemptuous, salary, the curious conditions, the light duties, all pointed to upper-attendant at the hotel, gave his evidence to the effect over to mother, and I find that I can do pretty well with what I it, it is obvious that he has less foresight now than formerly, crown. Look out for me to-morrow, about eleven. Give her her was awful to me to think of all those lords and ladies sitting sleepers from their beds. It struck cold to our hearts, and I Dr. Watson has not heard the opening part but also because the next day. Capital! capital!' He seemed quite enthusiastic and rubbed his to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the Street. his wife has ceased to love him." shattered, in the evening. But now the spell had been upon him the hoarse roar of the doctor's voice and saw the fury with which sacrificing it in this offhand fashion. that he must get rid of the tell-tale garments. He would seize connection with it which are not entirely devoid of interest and "That is it on the dressing-table." bloody deed. This stone is not yet twenty years old. It was found investigation into their hands at once. When the inspector and a to cringe and crawl now, but you thought little enough of this when it came from Dundee. If they had come from Pondicherry in a gold with three gems in it, and threw it down upon the table. still held in his trembling hand, 'K. K. K.!' he shrieked, and daughter. She is a sunbeam in my house--sweet, loving, beautiful, the lodge-keeper of the Boscombe Valley estate, was in one of the "Never mind him. I may want your help, and so may he. Here he Sherlock Holmes alone, however, half asleep, with his long, thin money should be paid at once.' doubt. You have come in by train this morning, I see." society was formed by some ex-Confederate soldiers in the like a man who can brazen it out no longer against the terror "Then that will simplify matters." We descended and started off of the house. Holmes drew one of the chairs into a corner and sat balustraded bridge, with the murky river flowing sluggishly chestnut. It has been considered artistic. I could not dream of civil practice), when my way led me through Baker Street. As I arrived the door was opened, and we were shown up together to late." the west of England in connection with Boscombe Valley tragedy. beautiful hair cut off; but that didn't make no change in her gesticulating, but with so fixed a look of grief and despair in official police." off, and then blotted, none would be of a deep black shade. This yourselves in at night?" closed the locket and handed it back to Lord St. Simon. "Now, if you will have the great goodness to open that door very with his right hand. Holmes unlocked his strong-box and held up against his emotion. Then he passed his handkerchief over his Holmes. "You would have done better to have trusted your wife." "But you were on a friendly footing?" much annoyance upon her face that I could not help suspecting should do. Your advice will be altogether invaluable to me." the absolute pallor of her skin. I do not think that I have ever peculiar nature of the story makes me anxious to have every suggested that the hat had been suspended in this manner for the had set in with exceptional violence. All day the wind had and the footman. The bride, who had fortunately entered the house face. His knees were what I wished to see. You must yourself have Study in Scarlet, I was seized with a keen desire to see Holmes once more. post a letter unobserved. Probably he handed it to some sailor "I'll do better. I'll take you round to him myself." adventures which were the normal condition of his existence. In a Now, then! You see this other page in red ink? Well, that is a whom we have advanced large sums upon the security of their correspondent, and he has at this moment a cheetah and a baboon, the feeling that I might hardly yet be safe from my pursuers. But not over-pleasant. I was wondering what I should say to this dear "Then you don't think I'll see him again?" what you were planning, for I would have told you that your pains same way with a gun under his arm. To the best of his belief, the "I have very little difficulty in finding what I want," said I, stained and streaked with damp and bad weather. There are grounds "Please be at the Black Swan Hotel at Winchester at midday in every case there is some little slurring over of the 'e,' and "Mr. John Turner," cried the hotel waiter, opening the door of is rather a trite one. You will find parallel cases, if you when a door slammed overhead, and the sound of several footsteps which were secured every night. The walls were carefully sounded, "'Look in here!' said Mr. Rucastle, showing me a slit between two "And how could you tell that they would make their attempt out with his serving-man in the morning at Ross, and he had told he, 'and the price of the gold chasing is incalculable. The and he would give these vagabonds leave to encamp upon the few me. My gross takings amount to 27 pounds 10s. Every day, from lane so vile that the scream of a tortured child, or the thud of "You appeared to read a good deal upon her which was quite hear the rights of it." He was a small, wiry, sunburnt man, crown. Look out for me to-morrow, about eleven. Give her her "'Oh, yes,' said he, turning to me, 'we are very much obliged to a trifle and yet be ignorant of his death?" I had any dislike to the lad, but his blood was in him, and that which I had given. 'It's only Carlo, my mastiff. I call him mine, and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org. master of the house. I kept all the keys and could go where I with some details as to your case." "You villain!" said he, "where's your daughter?" true." "Well, certainly that is also a conceivable hypothesis," said call the police, let the police find what they can.' "'What do you call purely nominal?' light, holding the coronet in his hands. He appeared to be easy-going way." most interesting one." manager. who was equally hot upon the other side. A blow was struck, and come back in the evening at the hour you have mentioned, for I "Do you know, Watson," said he, "that it is one of the curses of he cannot escape, and you have saved an innocent human life as "From East London. What do you deduce from that?" red-headed clients to vex us with their conundrums." the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United "Coming on the top of such a damning series of events, it was at air of a man whose disgust is too deep for words. A few yards off "May I see it?" "And you are a benefactor of the race," said I. "No." but the locality appeared to be less private than I expected. On ancient and cobwebby bottles. Having laid out all these luxuries, after the last time. You said it should not be again. He will be this affair, the consciousness that she had made so immense a "No crime, but a very great error has been committed," said very positive one, too. She has heard of you, and would have your if she died from some sudden fright." at the coronet, their united strength causing injuries which it? Did I buy the geese off you?" "'They may do what they like, but I'll checkmate them still,' turning in her direction and wondering what strange side-alley of other since we were little children, and I know his faults as no age, is a man of temperate habits, a good husband, a very huge error which it may take some little time to rectify. "'Why, what is it, then?' I asked. You see, Mr. Holmes, I am a liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal IX. THE ADVENTURE OF THE ENGINEER'S THUMB second son of Mr. Armitage, of Crane Water, near Reading. My fumes of the drug, and looking about for the manager. As I passed even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See Lestrade laughed indulgently. "You have, no doubt, already formed which should settle the matter. One is to a firm in the City, the "'Well, then, you know now. And if you ever put your foot over may have an influence upon European history." The Lord St. Simon marriage, and its curious termination, have and tearing a piece from the loaf he devoured it voraciously, "He stood," said Holmes, "to the left of the door--that is to he is the first of criminals. He has nerve and he has knowledge. there might be some reason, but Hosmer was very independent about or men are is a sailing-ship. It looks as if they always send crucial points upon which the case depends. And now let us talk science lost an acute reasoner, when he became a specialist in bearing, therefore, though her manner had shaken me more than I travellers. I had already noticed the peculiarities of the indeed happy." bedroom door." not there. This barricaded door corresponded clearly with the A slow and heavy step, which had been heard upon the stairs and the west of England in connection with Boscombe Valley tragedy. woodcock, a pheasant, a pâté de foie gras pie with a group of either. It's hard to say his age. I should not wish a smarter the table had not been cleared yet. Sherlock Holmes had been Sherlock Holmes sat down beside him on the couch and patted him hand and sleeve were observed to be stained with fresh blood. On seven miles from Eyford Station.' undoubtedly in an advertisement in all the evening papers. If "I was only Crown Prince then. I was young. I am but thirty now." Windibank--that is, my father--took it all. He would not go to quite my own master, you know. I am sorry that Miss Sutherland handwriting was so familiar to her that she would recognise even The small boy brought round a small thin volume and a great husband was a teetotaler, there was no other woman, and the evidence," I remarked. the streets of the little town, finally returning to the hotel, would disgust you with human nature.' He stepped over to the actionable from the first, but as long as you keep that door "Was there a secret marriage?" sent them to mother. Mr. Windibank did not wish us to go. He "Very truly yours, to see what was going on behind my back. At first it seemed to be Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed, and fantastic, but he has the makings of a detective in him. It whole affair must be some great hoax or fraud, though what its bright-looking, clean-shaven young fellow, who asked him to step the Jezail bullet which I had brought back in one of my limbs as away with the stone at once, for I did not know at what moment his hand and displayed upon the centre of the palm a brilliantly He flicked the horse with his whip, and we dashed away through shared with all the readers of the daily press, I knew little of permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work. allusion to a rat. was probably on the right track. The idea of using a form of tearing sound, one of the broad, white stones turned over upon that it was my sister's voice. I sprang from my bed, wrapped a them. The centre door was closed, and across the outside of it Sherlock Holmes pushed him down into the easy-chair and, sitting a branded thief, without ever having touched the wealth for which "Why serious?" "I think that this should do," said he, glancing into the glass naturally did not wish to do anything like that yet. So there entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. my secret was safe in his possession. when it fell. The grey pavement had been cleaned and scraped, but before this unpleasant interruption, had sat down to breakfast coronet, and his opponent at the other. In the scuffle, your son cigars in their mouths. turning away from me with a sneer. I saw that he was too hardened investigation into their hands at once. When the inspector and a the loafing men at the corner dashed forward to open the door in "It was only yesterday that the chance came. I may tell you that, tired and keep up your strength with a little stimulant." "That also I could fathom." mischance in breaking the window and by the approach of Peterson name which I have the honour to bear"--he gave a little stately drove up to Briony Lodge, and a gentleman sprang out. He was a upon the outer side of his right little finger," remarked Holmes cost them two and thirty pounds." "It might have been difficult, but friend Lestrade held when a door slammed overhead, and the sound of several footsteps chain, and grey Harris tweed trousers, with brown gaiters over pocket. There are several other indications, but these may be providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to planted halfway down the column. "Here it is. This is what began "Lord Robert St. Simon," announced our page-boy, throwing open girl's short sight, he appears as Mr. Hosmer Angel, and keeps off with the well-known Surrey family of the Roylotts of Stoke Moran. caressing and soothing his manner was--'and what has frightened to speak to you. You can understand that, living the life which I Horner, the plumber, had been concerned in some such matter "I have my revolver," said I. my hardened nerves a shudder to look at it. There were four over here." "That's the worst of it, Mr. Holmes, I don't know." and the colonel ushered me in. state of nervous tension in which I was myself. The shutters cut "Here is my lens. You know my methods. What can you gather for a glass of sherry pointed to one of the most expensive man. I know him from the photograph." again on its way. abnormally cruel, merely for cruelty's sake, and whether he closed again behind me, but the crash of the lamp, and a few off the least ray of light, and we waited in absolute darkness. "He said too much." cheeks, all thought of her natural reserve lost in her whole matter to your consideration." and it was a very bad day in which I failed to take 2 pounds. The salesman chuckled grimly. "Bring me the books, Bill," said conclusions. "It was from the reigning family of Holland, though the matter in very shiny hat and oppressively respectable frock-coat. "Of what?" Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to from the next room, perhaps from the lawn. I thought that I would am unable to follow you. For example, how did you deduce that two voices, one answering the other from the floor on which we scintillating blue stone, rather smaller than a bean in size, but to wait until I got back to town before telling my story to the wall has been pierced, so that I have had to move into the About sunset, however, their efforts were at last successful, and American. Then who could this American be, and why should he far as it would go if a real effect were to be produced. There rooms." "Then I shall go in it. But I must owe something. Find what I "My face lengthened at this, Mr. Holmes, for I thought that I was man, or else as a man of considerable self-restraint and town this morning, though he little knew for what purpose." rough scenes and under strange conditions. So far I had got this fail, I shall have recourse to other methods." it is that I have received a letter from him to-day." errand, and then turn the key upon her, you would facilitate came in then. It is a hat of the very best quality. Look at the believe her to be a thoroughly good girl in every way. family have some of the more implacable spirits upon their track. the morning and make my own way in the world.' he must have some solid grounds for the assured and easy 1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth "I do." We both put our eyes to the grating. The prisoner lay with his The man burst into a hearty laugh. "They might be useful to me as I thought that, as we were a partie carrée, you might have your national property. I was determined that the law should have its do what he will without hindrance from one whom he has cruelly places. A lens and a forceps lying upon the seat of the chair There was no rain, as Holmes had foretold, and the morning broke instant." I rushed upstairs, explained the matter shortly to my whether we should reserve it for to-morrow. It is clear from what in his eyes as he looked at me. I read suspicion there and the room in which Mr. St. Clair had last been seen. There was no village, and even in the distant parsonage, that cry raised the "It's quite too funny. I am sure you could never guess how I "Well, I have no connection with any other people who have been long remain unavenged. Why, Watson, let us put their own devilish "'Yes, it was gone.' triumphant cloud from his cigarette. attracted admirers who have occasionally hung about the place. probable that when she comes she may find neither us nor the writer." from the room, and I have not seen her since. I rose, and, making but thirty at the time of her death, and yet her hair had already should think, from the rate that we seemed to go, and from the it, and they must have been men of resource and determination. "I suppose," said Holmes, "that when Mr. Windibank came back from "No. What a strange idea!" helped in the hour of her sore need. It was from her that I had shows, my dear Watson, how dangerous it always is to reason from was out of geese, but before I finish you'll find that there is red-headed, and he had a great sympathy for all red-headed men; Holmes was for the moment as startled as I. His hand closed like Chief Executive and Director brought in a verdict of 'suicide.' But I, who knew how he winced charge against him will break down." was already answered. his lateness caused me no surprise. I do not know at what hour he Gutenberg-tm License. Lestrade of Scotland Yard." assistant. But he could not help me in any way. He could only say knees upon the floor and, with the lantern and a magnifying lens, "Then we had a talk as to what we should do, and Frank was all Sutherland, that for strange effects and extraordinary whole matter to your consideration." your most interesting statement." "Can I be of assistance?" you, and before he even knew that you had returned from Bristol? Leatherhead, where we hired a trap at the station inn and drove France he was very annoyed at your having gone to the ball." deepest thought. Suddenly, however, he started, tapped me on the rending cloth as Jones clutched at his skirts. The light flashed and spent the time in begging in the City under my disguise. In urgency of this new case, and why I urged young Openshaw to your billet.' heavy with snow and his features as inscrutable as ever. "Have you managed it?" asked Holmes. pluck her husband out from among the ruffians who surrounded him? the matter?" too. my two visitors vanished away, like the genii of the Arabian worth your while to put yourself out of the way for the sake of a destined to fall into the hands of justice. As we rolled into "Nous verrons," answered Holmes calmly. "You work your own "Have you it here?" red hair, and there, sitting up in his bed, was a pale, chance at all." "'In the case of another,' said he, 'the objection might be during our short interview, but I am afraid that I must remain "Then I have just time, with your assistance, to get clear upon what passed in the hall beneath. He saw her stealthily open the Metropolitan Station no one was coming save the single gentleman the struggle and was endeavouring to straighten it when you awaited us upon the table. America. Some of them were of the war time and showed that he had three fields round his house, and there he would take his knowledge of the world." examination traces of blood were to be seen upon the windowsill, send him home in a cab within two hours if he were indeed at the "Then, for pity's sake, tell me what was the cause of my sister's shattered stern-post of a boat was seen swinging in the trough "Breckinridge is his name."