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The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes

by

Arthur Conan Doyle

C !T"!TS
PrefaceThe Mazarin StoneThe Problem of Thor BridgeThe Creeping ManThe Susse !ampireThe Three "arridebsThe #llustrious ClientThe Blanched SoldierThe $etired ColourmanThe Three "ablesThe %ion&s ManeThe !eiled %odgerShoscombe 'ld Place

P#"FAC"
# fear that Mr. Sherloc( )olmes ma* become li(e one of those popular tenors who+ having outlived their time+ are still tempted to ma(e repeated farewell bows to their indulgent audiences. This must cease and he must go the wa* of all flesh+ material or imaginar*. 'ne li(es to thin( that there is some fantastic limbo for the children of imagination+ some strange+ impossible place where the beau of ,ielding ma* still ma(e love to the belles of $ichardson+ where Scott&s heroes still ma* strut+ -ic(ens&s delightful Coc(ne*s still raise a laugh+ and Thac(era*&s worldlings continue to carr* on their reprehensible careers. Perhaps in some humble corner of such a !alhalla+ Sherloc( and his .atson ma* for a time find a place+ while some more astute sleuth with some even less astute comrade ma* fill the stage which the* have vacated. )is career has been a long one//though it is possible to e aggerate it0 decrepit gentlemen who approach me and declare that his adventures formed the reading of their

bo*hood do not meet the response from me which the* seem to e pect. 'ne is not an ious to have one&s personal dates handled so un(indl*. 1s a matter of cold fact+ )olmes made his debut in 1 Stud* in Scarlet and in The Sign of ,our+ two small boo(lets which appeared between 2334 and 2335. #t was in 2352 that 61 Scandal in Bohemia+6 the first of the long series of short stories+ appeared in The Strand Magazine. The public seemed appreciative and desirous of more+ so that from that date+ thirt*/nine *ears ago+ the* have been produced in a bro(en series which now contains no fewer than fift*/si stories+ republished in The 1dventures+ The Memoirs+ The $eturn+ and )is %ast Bow. and there remain these twelve published during the last few *ears which are here produced under the title of The Case Boo( of Sherloc( )olmes. )e began his adventures in the ver* heart of the later !ictorian era+ carried it through the all/too/short reign of 7dward+ and has managed to hold his own little niche even in these feverish da*s. Thus it would be true to sa* that those who first read of him+ as *oung men+ have lived to see their own grown/up children following the same adventures in the same magazine. #t is a stri(ing e ample of the patience and lo*alt* of the British public. # had full* determined at the conclusion of The Memoirs to bring )olmes to an end+ as # felt that m* literar* energies should not be directed too much into one channel. That pale+ clear/cut face and loose/limbed figure were ta(ing up an undue share of m* imagination. # did the deed+ but fortunatel* no coroner had pronounced upon the remains+ and so+ after a long interval+ it was not difficult for me to respond to the flattering demand and to e plain m* rash act awa*. # have never regretted it+ for # have not in actual practice found that these lighter s(etches have prevented me from e ploring and finding m* limitations in such varied branches of literature as histor*+ poetr*+ historical novels+

ps*chic research+ and the drama. )ad )olmes never e isted # could not have done more+ though he ma* perhaps have stood a little in the wa* of the recognition of m* more serious literar* wor(. 1nd so+ reader+ farewell to Sherloc( )olmes8 # than( *ou for *our past constanc*+ and can but hope that some return has been made in the shape of that distraction from the worries of life and stimulating change of thought which can onl* be found in the fair* (ingdom of romance. 1$T)9$ C':1: -';%7.

AD$"!T%#" &' TH" AD$"!T%#" MA(A#&! ST !"

F TH"

#t was pleasant to -r. .atson to find himself once more in the untid* room of the first floor in Ba(er Street which had been the starting/point of so man* remar(able adventures. )e loo(ed round him at the scientific charts upon the wall+ the acid/charred bench of chemicals+ the violin/case leaning in the corner+ the coal/scuttle+ which contained of old the pipes and tobacco. ,inall*+ his e*es came round to the fresh and smiling face of Bill*+ the *oung but ver* wise and tactful page+ who had helped a little to fill up the gap of loneliness and isolation which surrounded the saturnine figure of the great detective. 6#t all seems ver* unchanged+ Bill*. ;ou don&t change+ either. # hope the same can be said of him<6 Bill* glanced with some solicitude at the closed door of the bedroom.

6# thin( he&s in bed and asleep+6 he said. #t was seven in the evening of a lovel* summer&s da*+ but -r. .atson was sufficientl* familiar with the irregularit* of his old friend&s hours to feel no surprise at the idea. 6That means a case+ # suppose<6 6;es+ sir+ he is ver* hard at it =ust now. #&m frightened for his health. )e gets paler and thinner+ and he eats nothing. &.hen will *ou be pleased to dine+ Mr. )olmes<& Mrs. )udson as(ed. &Seven/thirt*+ the da* after to/morrow+& said he. ;ou (now his wa* when he is (een on a case.6 6;es+ Bill*+ # (now.6 6)e&s following someone. ;esterda* he was out as a wor(man loo(ing for a =ob. To/da* he was an old woman. ,airl* too( me in+ he did+ and # ought to (now his wa*s b* now.6 Bill* pointed with a grin to a ver* bagg* parasol which leaned against the sofa. 6That&s part of the old woman&s outfit+6 he said. 6But what is it all about+ Bill*<6 Bill* san( his voice+ as one who discusses great secrets of State. 6# don&t mind telling *ou+ sir+ but it should go no farther. #t&s this case of the Crown diamond.6 6.hat//the hundred/thousand/pound burglar*<6 6;es+ sir. The* must get it bac(+ sir. .h*+ we had the Prime Minister and the )ome Secretar* both sitting on that ver* sofa. Mr. )olmes was ver* nice to them. )e soon put them at their ease and promised he would do all he could. Then there is %ord Cantlemere//6

61h86 6;es+ sir+ *ou (now what that means. )e&s a stiff&un+ sir+ if # ma* sa* so. # can get along with the Prime Minister+ and #&ve nothing against the )ome Secretar*+ who seemed a civil+ obliging sort of man+ but # can&t stand his %ordship. :either can Mr. )olmes+ sir. ;ou see+ he don&t believe in Mr. )olmes and he was against emplo*ing him. )e&d rather he failed.6 61nd Mr. )olmes (nows it<6 6Mr. )olmes alwa*s (nows whatever there is to (now.6 6.ell+ we&ll hope he won&t fail and that %ord Cantlemere will be confounded. But # sa*+ Bill*+ what is that curtain for across the window<6 6Mr. )olmes had it put up there three da*s ago. .e&ve got something funn* behind it.6 Bill* advanced and drew awa* the draper* which screened the alcove of the bow window. -r. .atson could not restrain a cr* of amazement. There was a facsimile of his old friend+ dressing/gown and all+ the face turned three/>uarters towards the window and downward+ as though reading an invisible boo(+ while the bod* was sun( deep in an armchair. Bill* detached the head and held it in the air. 6.e put it at different angles+ so that it ma* seem more lifeli(e. # wouldn&t dare touch it if the blind were not down. But when it&s up *ou can see this from across the wa*.6 6.e used something of the sort once before.6

6Before m* time+6 said Bill*. )e drew the window curtains apart and loo(ed out into the street. 6There are fol( who watch us from over *onder. # can see a fellow now at the window. )ave a loo( for *ourself.6 .atson had ta(en a step forward when the bedroom door opened+ and the long+ thin form of )olmes emerged+ his face pale and drawn+ but his step and bearing as active as ever. .ith a single spring he was at the window+ and had drawn the blind once more. 6That will do+ Bill*+6 said he. 6;ou were in danger of *our life then+ m* bo*+ and # can&t do without *ou =ust *et. .ell+ .atson+ it is good to see *ou in *our old >uarters once again. ;ou come at a critical moment.6 6So # gather.6 6;ou can go+ Bill*. That bo* is a problem+ .atson. )ow far am # =ustified in allowing him to be in danger<6 6-anger of what+ )olmes<6 6'f sudden death. #&m e pecting something this evening.6 67 pecting what<6 6To be murdered+ .atson.6 6:o+ no+ *ou are =o(ing+ )olmes86 67ven m* limited sense of humour could evolve a better =o(e than that. But we ma* be comfortable in the meantime+ ma* we not< #s alcohol permitted< The gasogene and cigars are in the old place. %et me see *ou once more in the customar* armchair. ;ou have not+ # hope+ learned to despise m* pipe

and m* lamentable tobacco< #t has to ta(e the place of food these da*s.6 6But wh* not eat<6 6Because the faculties become refined when *ou starve them. .h*+ surel*+ as a doctor+ m* dear .atson+ *ou must admit that what *our digestion gains in the wa* of blood suppl* is so much lost to the brain. # am a brain+ .atson. The rest of me is a mere appendi . Therefore+ it is the brain # must consider.6 6But this danger+ )olmes<6 61h. *es+ in case it should come off+ it would perhaps be as well that *ou should burden *our memor* with the name and address of the murderer. ;ou can give it to Scotland ;ard+ with m* love and a parting blessing. S*lvius is the name// Count :egretto S*lvius. .rite it down+ man+ write it down8 23? Moorside "ardens+ :. .. "ot it<6 .atson&s honest face was twitching with an iet*. )e (new onl* too well the immense ris(s ta(en b* )olmes and was well aware that what he said was more li(el* to be under/ statement than e aggeration. .atson was alwa*s the man of action+ and he rose to the occasion. 6Count me in+ )olmes. # have nothing to do for a da* or two.6 6;our morals don&t improve+ .atson. ;ou have added fibbing to *our other vices. ;ou bear ever* sign of the bus* medical man+ with calls on him ever* hour.6 6:ot such important ones. But can&t *ou have this fellow arrested<6

6;es+ .atson+ # could. That&s what worries him so.6 6But wh* don&t *ou<6 6Because # don&t (now where the diamond is.6 61h8 Bill* told me//the missing Crown =ewel86 6;es+ the great *ellow Mazarin stone. #&ve cast m* net and # have m* fish. But # have not got the stone. .hat is the use of ta(ing them< .e can ma(e the world a better place b* la*ing them b* the heels. But that is not what # am out for. #t&s the stone # want.6 61nd is this Count S*lvius one of *our fish<6 6;es+ and he&s a shar(. )e bites. The other is Sam Merton the bo er. :ot a bad fellow+ Sam+ but the Count has used him. Sam&s not a shar(. )e is a great big sill* bull/headed gudgeon. But he is flopping about in m* net all the same.6 6.here is this Count S*lvius<6 6#&ve been at his ver* elbow all the morning. ;ou&ve seen me as an old lad*+ .atson. # was never more convincing. )e actuall* pic(ed up m* parasol for me once. &B* *our leave+ madame+& said he//half/ltalian+ *ou (now+ and with the Southern graces of manner when in the mood+ but a devil incarnate in the other mood. %ife is full of whimsical happenings+ .atson.6 6#t might have been traged*.6 6.ell+ perhaps it might. # followed him to old Straubenzee&s wor(shop in the Minories. Straubenzee made the air/gun//a ver* prett* bit of wor(+ as # understand+ and # rather fanc* it

is in the opposite window at the present moment. )ave *ou seen the dumm*< 'f course+ Bill* showed it to *ou. .ell+ it ma* get a bullet through its beautiful head at an* moment. 1h+ Bill*+ what is it<6 The bo* had reappeared in the room with a card upon a tra*. )olmes glanced at it with raised e*ebrows and an amused smile. 6The man himself. # had hardl* e pected this. "rasp the nettle+ .atson8 1 man of nerve. Possibl* *ou have heard of his reputation as a shooter of big game. #t would indeed be a triumphant ending to his e cellent sporting record if he added me to his bag. This is a proof that he feels m* toe ver* close behind his heel.6 6Send for the police.6 6# probabl* shall. But not =ust *et. .ould *ou glance carefull* out of the window+ .atson+ and see if an*one is hanging about in the street<6 .atson loo(ed waril* round the edge of the curtain. 6;es+ there is one rough fellow near the door.6 6That will be Sam Merton//the faithful but rather fatuous Sam. .here is this gentleman+ Bill*<6 6#n the waiting/room+ sir.6 6Show him up when # ring.6 6;es+ sir.6 6#f # am not in the room+ show him in all the same.6

6;es+ sir.6 .atson waited until the door was closed+ and then he turned earnestl* to his companion. 6%oo( here+ )olmes+ this is simpl* impossible. This is a desperate man+ who stic(s at nothing. )e ma* have come to murder *ou.6 6# should not be surprised.6 6# insist upon sta*ing with *ou.6 6;ou would be horribl* in the wa*.6 6#n his wa*<6 6:o+ m* dear fellow//in m* wa*.6 6.ell+ # can&t possibl* leave *ou.6 6;es+ *ou can+ .atson. 1nd *ou will+ for *ou have never failed to pla* the game. # am sure *ou will pla* it to the end. This man has come for his own purpose+ but he ma* sta* for mine.6 )olmes too( out his noteboo( and scribbled a few lines. 6Ta(e a cab to Scotland ;ard and give this to ;oughal of the C. #. -. Come bac( with the police. The fellow&s arrest will follow.6 6#&ll do that with =o*. 6Before *ou return # ma* have =ust time enough to find out where the stone is.6 )e touched the bell. 6# thin( we will go out through the bedroom. This second e it is e ceedingl*

useful. # rather want to see m* shar( without his seeing me+ and # have+ as *ou will remember+ m* own wa* of doing it.6 #t was+ therefore+ an empt* room into which Bill*+ a minute later+ ushered Count S*lvius. The famous game/shot+ sportsman+ and man/about/town was a big+ swarth* fellow+ with a formidable dar( moustache shading a cruel+ thin/ lipped mouth+ and surmounted b* a long+ curved nose li(e the bea( of an eagle. )e was well dressed+ but his brilliant nec(tie+ shining pin+ and glittering rings were flambo*ant in their effect. 1s the door closed behind him he loo(ed round him with fierce+ startled e*es+ li(e one who suspects a trap at ever* turn. Then he gave a violent start as he saw the impassive head and the collar of the dressing/gown which pro=ected above the armchair in the window. 1t first his e pression was one of pure amazement. Then the light of a horrible hope gleamed in his dar(+ murderous e*es. )e too( one more glance round to see that there were no witnesses+ and then+ on tiptoe+ his thic( stic( half raised+ he approached the silent figure. )e was crouching for his final spring and blow when a cool+ sardonic voice greeted him from the open bedroom door@ 6-on&t brea( it+ Count8 -on&t brea( it86 The assassin staggered bac(+ amazement in his convulsed face. ,or an instant he half raised his loaded cane once more+ as if he would turn his violence from the effig* to the original0 but there was something in that stead* gra* e*e and moc(ing smile which caused his hand to sin( to his side. 6#t&s a prett* little thing+6 said )olmes+ advancing towards the image. 6Tavernier+ the ,rench modeller+ made it. )e is as good at wa wor(s as *our friend Straubenzee is at air/guns.6

61ir/guns+ sir8 .hat do *ou mean<6 6Put *our hat and stic( on the side/table. Than( *ou8 Pra* ta(e a seat. .ould *ou care to put *our revolver out also< 'h+ ver* good+ if *ou prefer to sit upon it. ;our visit is reall* most opportune+ for # wanted badl* to have a few minutes& chat with *ou.6 The Count scowled+ with heav*+ threatening e*ebrows. 6#+ too+ wished to have some words with *ou+ )olmes. That is wh* # am here. # won&t den* that # intended to assault *ou =ust now.6 )olmes swung his leg on the edge of the table. 6# rather gathered that *ou had some idea of the sort in *our head+6 said he. 6But wh* these personal attentions<6 6Because *ou have gone out of *our wa* to anno* me. Because *ou have put *our creatures upon m* trac(.6 6M* creatures8 # assure *ou no86 6:onsense8 # have had them followed. Two can pla* at that game+ )olmes.6 6#t is a small point+ Count S*lvius+ but perhaps *ou would (indl* give me m* prefi when *ou address me. ;ou can understand that+ with m* routine of wor(+ # should find m*self on familiar terms with half the rogues& galler*+ and *ou will agree that e ceptions are invidious.6 6.ell+ Mr. )olmes+ then.6 67 cellent8 But # assure *ou *ou are mista(en about m*

alleged agents.6 Count S*lvius laughed contemptuousl*. 6'ther people can observe as well as *ou. ;esterda* there was an old sporting man. To/da* it was an elderl* woman. The* held me in view all da*.6 6$eall*+ sir+ *ou compliment me. 'ld Baron -owson said the night before he was hanged that in m* case what the law had gained the stage had lost. 1nd now *ou give m* little impersonations *our (indl* praise<6 6#t was *ou//*ou *ourself<6 )olmes shrugged his shoulders. 6;ou can see in the corner the parasol which *ou so politel* handed to me in the Minories before *ou began to suspect.6 6#f # had (nown+ *ou might never//6 6)ave seen this humble home again. # was well aware of it. .e all have neglected opportunities to deplore. 1s it happens+ *ou did not (now+ so here we are86 The Count&s (notted brows gathered more heavil* over his menacing e*es. 6.hat *ou sa* onl* ma(es the matter worse. #t was not *our agents but *our pla*/acting+ bus*bod* self8 ;ou admit that *ou have dogged me. .h*<6 6Come now+ Count. ;ou used to shoot lions in 1lgeria.6 6.ell<6 6But wh*<6

6.h*< The sport//the e citement//the danger86 61nd+ no doubt+ to free the countr* from a pest<6 67 actl*86 6M* reasons in a nutshell86 The Count sprang to his feet+ and his hand involuntaril* moved bac( to his hip/poc(et. 6Sit down+ sir+ sit down8 There was another+ more practical+ reason. # want that *ellow diamond86 Count S*lvius la* bac( in his chair with an evil smile. 69pon m* word86 said he. 6;ou (new that # was after *ou for that. The real reason wh* *ou are here to/night is to find out how much # (now about the matter and how far m* removal is absolutel* essential. .ell+ # should sa* that+ from *our point of view+ it is absolutel* essential+ for # (now all about it+ save onl* one thing+ which *ou are about to tell me.6 6'h+ indeed8 1nd pra*+ what is this missing fact<6 6.here the Crown diamond now is.6 The Count loo(ed sharpl* at his companion. 6'h+ *ou want to (now that+ do *ou< )ow the devil should # be able to lell *ou where it is<6 6;ou can+ and *ou will.6 6#ndeed86

6;ou can&t bluff me+ Count S*lvius.6 )olmes&s e*es+ as he gazed at him+ contracted and lightened until the* were li(e two menacing points of steel. 6;ou are absolute plate/glass. # see to the ver* bac( of *our mind.6 6Then+ of course+ *ou see where the diamond is86 )olmes clapped his hands with amusement+ and then pointed a derisive finger. 6Then *ou do (now. ;ou have admitted it86 6# admit nothing.6 6:ow+ Count+ if *ou will be reasonable we can do business. #f not+ *ou will get hurt.6 Count S*lvius threw up his e*es to the ceiling. 61nd *ou tal( about bluff86 said he. )olmes loo(ed at him thoughtfull* li(e a master chess/pla*er who meditates his crowning move. Then he threw open the table drawer and drew out a s>uat noteboo(. 6-o *ou (now what # (eep in this boo(<6 6:o+ sir+ # do not86 6;ou86 6Me86 6;es+ sir+ *ou8 ;ou are all here//ever* action of *or vile and dangerous life.6 6-amn *ou+ )olmes86 cried the Count with blazing e*es. 6There are limits to m* patience86

6#t&s all here+ Count. The real facts as to the death of old Mrs. )arold+ who left *ou the Bl*mer estate+ which *ou so rapidl* gambled awa*.6 6;ou are dreaming86 61nd the complete life histor* of Miss Minnie .arrender.6 6Tut8 ;ou will ma(e nothing of that86 6Plent* more here+ Count. )ere is the robber* in the train de/ lu e to the $iviera on ,ebruar* 23+ 235A. )ere is the forged chec( in the same *ear on the Credit %*onnais.6 6:o+ *ou&re wrong there.6 6Then # am right on the others8 :ow+ Count+ *ou are a card/ pla*er. .hen the other fellow has all the trumps+ it saves time to throw down *our hand.6 6.hat has all this tal( to do with the =ewel of which *ou spo(e<6 6"entl*+ Count. $estrain that eager mind8 %et me get to the points in m* own humdrum fashion. # have all this against *ou0 but+ above all+ # have a clear case against both *ou and *our fighting bull* in the case of the Crown diamond.6 6#ndeed86 6# have the cabman who too( *ou to .hitehall and the cabman who brought *ou awa*. # have the commissionaire who saw *ou near the case. # have #(e* Sanders+ who refused to cut it up for *ou. #(e* has peached+ and the game is up.6

The veins stood out on the Count&s forehead. )is dar(+ hair* hands were clenched in a convulsion of restrained emotion. )e tried to spea(+ but the words would not shape themselves. 6That&s the hand # pla* from+6 said )olmes. 6# put it all upon the table. But one card is missing. #t&s the (ing of diamonds. # don&t (now where the stone is.6 6;ou never shall (now.6 6:o< :ow+ be reasonable+ Count. Consider the situation. ;ou are going to be loc(ed up for twent* *ears. So is Sam Merton. .hat good are *ou going to get out of *our diamond< :one in the world. But if *ou hand it over//well+ #&ll compound a felon*. .e don&t want *ou or Sam. .e want the stone. "ive that up+ and so far as # am concerned *ou can go free so long as *ou behave *ourself in the future. #f *ou ma(e another slip well+ it will be the last. But this time m* commission is to get the stone+ not *ou.6 6But if # refuse<6 6.h*+ then//alas8//it must be *ou and not the stone.6 Bill* had appeared in answer to a ring. 6# thin(+ Count+ that it would be as well to have *our friend Sam at this conference. 1fter all+ his interests should be represented. Bill*+ *ou will see a large and ugl* gentleman outside the front door. 1s( him to come up.6 6#f he won&t come+ sir<6 6:o violence+ Bill*. -on&t be rough with him. #f *ou tell him that Count S*lvius wants him he will certainl* come.6

6.hat are *ou going to do now<6 as(ed the Count as Bill* disappeared. 6M* friend .atson was with me =ust now. # told him that # had a shar( and a gudgeon in m* net0 now # am drawing the net and up the* come together.6 The Count had risen from his chair+ and his hand was behind his bac(. )olmes held something half protruding from the poc(et of his dressing/gown. 6;ou won&t die in *our bed+ )olmes.6 6# have often had the same idea. -oes it matter ver* much< 1her all+ Count+ *our own e it is more li(el* to be perpendicular than horizontal. But these anticipations of the future are morbid. .h* not give ourselves up to the unrestrained en=o*ment of the present<6 1 sudden wild/beast light sprang up in the dar(+ menacing e*es of the master criminal. )olmes&s figure seemed to grow taller as he grew tense and read*. 6#t is no use *our fingering *our revolver+ m* friend+6 he said in a >uiet voice. 6;ou (now perfectl* well that *ou dare not use it+ even if # gave *ou time to draw it. :ast*+ nois* things+ revolvers+ Count. Better stic( to air/guns. 1h8 # thin( # hear the fair* footstep of *our estimable partner. "ood da*+ Mr. Merton. $ather dull in the street+ is it not<6 The prize/fighter+ a heavil* built *oung man with a stupid+ obstinate+ slab/sided face+ stood aw(wardl* at the door+ loo(ing about him with a puzzled e pression. )olmes&s debonair manner was a new e perience+ and though he vaguel* felt that it was hostile+ he did not (now how to counter it. )e turned to his more astute comrade for help.

6.hat&s the game now+ Count< .hat&s this fellow want< .hat&s up<6 )is voice was deep and raucous. The Count shrugged his shoulders+ and it was )olmes who answered. 6#f # ma* put it in a nutshell+ Mr. Merton+ # should sa* it was all up.6 The bo er still addressed his remar(s to his associate. 6#s this cove tr*ing to be funn*+ or what< #&m not in the funn* mood m*self.6 6:o+ # e pect not+6 said )olmes. 6# thin( # can promise *ou that *ou will feel even less humorous as the evening advances. :ow+ loo( here+ Count S*lvius. #&m a bus* man and # can&t waste time. #&m going into that bedroom. Pra* ma(e *ourselves >uite at home in m* absence. ;ou can e plain to *our friend how the matter lies without the restraint of m* presence. # shall tr* over the )offman &Barcarole& upon m* violin. #n five minutes # shall return for *our final answer. ;ou >uite grasp the alternative+ do *ou not< Shall we ta(e *ou+ or shall we have the stone<6 )olmes withdrew+ pic(ing up his violin from the corner as he passed. 1 few moments later the long/drawn+ wailing notes of that most haunting of tunes came faintl* through the closed door of the bedroom. 6.hat is it+ then<6 as(ed Merton an iousl* as his companion turned to him. 6-oes he (now about the stone<6 6)e (nows a damned sight too much about it. #&m not sure that he doesn&t (now all about it.6

6"ood %ord86 The bo er&s sallow face turned a shade whiter. 6#(e* Sanders has split on us.6 6)e has+ has he< #&ll do him down a thic( &un for that if # swing for it.6 6That won&t help us much. .e&ve got to ma(e up our minds what to do.6 6)alf a mo&+6 said the bo er+ loo(ing suspiciousl* at the bedroom door. 6)e&s a lear* cove that wants watching. # suppose he&s not listening<6 6)ow can he be listening with that music going<6 6That&s right. Ma*be somebod*&s behind a curtain. Too man* curtains in this room.6 1s he loo(ed round he suddenl* saw for the first time the effig* in the window+ and stood staring and pointing+ too amazed for words. 6Tut8 it&s onl* a dumm*+6 said the Count. 61 fa(e+ is it< .ell+ stri(e me8 Madame Tussaud ain&t in it. #t&s the living spit of him+ gown and all. But them curtains Count86 6'h+ confound the curtains8 .e are wasting our time+ and there is none too much. )e can lag us over this stone.6 6The deuce he can86 6But he&ll let us slip if we onl* tell him where the swag is.6 6.hat8 "ive it up< "ive up a hundred thousand >uid<6 6#t&s one or the other.6

Merton scratched his short/cropped pate. 6)e&s alone in there. %et&s do him in. #f his light were out we should have nothing to fear.6 The Count shoo( his head. 6)e is armed and read*. #f we shot him we could hardl* get awa* in a place li(e this. Besides+ it&s li(el* enough that the police (now whatever evidence he has got. )allo8 .hat was that<6 There was a vague sound which seemed to come from the window. Both men sprang round+ but all was >uiet. Save for the one strange figure seated in the chair+ the room was certainl* empt*. 6Something in the street+6 said Merton. 6:ow loo( here+ guv&nor+ *ou&ve got the brains. Surel* *ou can thin( a wa* out of it. #f slugging is no use then it&s up to *ou.6 6#&ve fooled better men than he+6 the Count answered. 6The stone is here in m* secret poc(et. # ta(e no chances leaving it about. #t can be out of 7ngland to/night and cut into four pieces in 1msterdam before Sunda*. )e (nows nothing of !an Seddar.6 6# thought !an Seddar was going ne t wee(.6 6)e was. But now he must get off b* the ne t boat. 'ne or other of us must slip round with the stone to %ime Street and tell him.6 6But the false bottom ain&t read*.6 6.ell+ he must ta(e it as it is and chance it. There&s not a

moment to lose.6 1gain+ with the sense of danger which becomes an instinct with the sportsman+ he paused and loo(ed hard at the window. ;es+ it was surel* from the street that the faint sound had come. 61s to )olmes+6 he continued+ 6we can fool him easil* enough. ;ou see+ the damned fool won&t arrest us if he can get the stone. .ell+ we&ll promise him the stone. .e&ll put him on the wrong trac( about it+ and before he finds that it is the wrong trac( it will be in )olland and we out of the countr*.6 6That sounds good to me86 cried Sam Merton with a grin. 6;ou go on and tell the -utchman to get a move on him. #&ll see this suc(er and fill him up with a bogus confession. #&ll tell him that the stone is in %iverpool. Confound that whining music0 it gets on m* nerves8 B* the time he finds it isn&t in %iverpool it will be in >uarters and we on the blue water. Come bac( here+ out of a line with that (e*hole. )ere is the stone.6 6# wonder *ou dare carr* it.6 6.here could # have it safer< #f we could ta(e it out of .hitehall someone else could surel* ta(e it out of m* lodgings.6 6%et&s have a loo( at it.6 Count S*lvius cast a somewhat unflattering glance at his associate and disregarded the unwashed hand which was e tended towards him. 6.hat//d&*e thin( #&m going to snatch it off *ou< See here+ mister+ #&m getting a bit tired of *our wa*s.6

6.ell+ well+ no offence+ Sam. .e can&t afford to >uarrel. Come over to the window if *ou want to see the beaut* properl*. :ow hold it to the light8 )ere86 6Than( *ou86 .ith a single spring )olmes had leaped from the dumm*&s chair and had grasped the precious =ewel. )e held it now in one hand+ while his other pointed a revolver at the Count&s head. The two villains staggered bac( in utter amazement. Before the* had recovered )olmes had pressed the electric bell. 6:o violence+ gentlemen//no violence+ # beg of *ou8 Consider the furniture8 #t must be ver* clear to *ou that *our position is an impossible one. The police are waiting below.6 The Count&s bewilderment overmastered his rage and fear. 6But how the deuce//<6 he gasped. 6;our surprise is ver* natural. ;ou are not aware that a second door from m* bedroom leads behind that curtain. # fancied that *ou must have heard me when # displaced the figure+ but luc( was on m* side. #t gave me a chance of listening to *our rac* conversation which would have been painfull* constrained had *ou been aware of m* presence.6 The Count gave a gesture of resignation. 6.e give *ou best+ )olmes. # believe *ou are the devil himself.6 6:ot far from him+ at an* rate+6 )olmes answered with a polite smile.

Sam Merton&s slow intellect had onl* graduall* appreciated the situation. :ow+ as the sound of heav* steps came from the stairs outside+ he bro(e silence at last. 61 fair cop86 said he. 6But+ # sa*+ what about that bloomin& fiddle8 # hear it *et.6 6Tut+ tut86 )olmes answered. 6;ou are perfectl* right. %et it pla*8 These modern gramophones are a remar(able invention.6 There was an inrush of police+ the handcuffs clic(ed and the criminals were led to the waiting cab. .atson lingered with )olmes+ congratulating him upon this fresh leaf added to his laurels. 'nce more their conversation was interrupted b* the imperturbable Bill* with his card/tra*. 6%ord Cantlemere sir.6 6Show him up+ Bill*. This is the eminent peer who represents the ver* highest interests+6 said )olmes. 6)e is an e cellent and lo*al person+ but rather of the old regime. Shall we ma(e him unbend< -are we venture upon a slight libert*< )e (nows+ we ma* con=ecture+ nothing of what has occurred.6 The door opened to admit a thin+ austere figure with a hatchet face and drooping mid/!ictorian whis(ers of a gloss* blac(ness which hardl* corresponded with the rounded shoulders and feeble gait. )olmes advanced affabl*+ and shoo( an unresponsive hand. 6)ow do *ou do+ %ord Cantlemere< #t is chill* for the time of *ear+ but rather warm indoors. Ma* # ta(e *our overcoat<6 6:o+ # than( *ou0 # will not ta(e it off.6

)olmes laid his hand insistentl* upon the sleeve. 6Pra* allow me8 M* friend -r. .atson would assure *ou that these changes of temperature are most insidious.6 )is %ordship shoo( himself free with some impatience. 6# am >uite comfortable+ sir. # have no need to sta*. # have simpl* loo(ed in to (now how *our self/appointed tas( was progressing.6 6#t is difficult//ver* difficult.6 6# feared that *ou would find it so.6 There was a distinct sneer in the old courtier&s words and manner. 67ver* man finds his limitations+ Mr. )olmes+ but at least it cures us of the wea(ness of self/satisfaction.6 6;es+ sir+ # have been much perple ed.6 6:o doubt.6 67speciall* upon one point. Possibl* *ou could help me upon 6;ou appl* for m* advice rather late in the da*. # thought that *ou had *our own all/sufficient methods. Still+ # am read* to help *ou.6 6;ou see+ %ord Cantlemere+ we can no doubt frame a case against the actual thieves.6 6.hen *ou have caught them.6

67 actl*. But the >uestion is//how shall we proceed against the receiver<6 6#s this not rather premature<6 6#t is as well to have our plans read*. :ow+ what would *ou regard as final evidence against the receiver<6 6The actual possession of the stone.6 6;ou would arrest him upon that<6 6Most undoubtedl*.6 )olmes seldom laughed+ but he got as near it as his old friend .atson could remember. 6#n that case+ m* dear sir+ # shall be under the painful necessit* of advising *our arrest.6 %ord Cantlemere was ver* angr*. Some of the ancient fires flic(ered up into his sallow chee(s. 6;ou ta(e a great libert*+ Mr. )olmes. #n fift* *ears of official life # cannot recall such a case. # am a bus* man+ sir engaged upon important affairs+ and # have no time or taste for foolish =o(es. # ma* tell *ou fran(l*+ sir+ that # have never been a believer in *our powers+ and that # have alwa*s been of the opinion that the matter was far safer in the hands of the regular police force. ;our conduct confirms all m* conclusions. # have the honour+ sir+ to wish *ou good/ evening.6 )olmes had swiftl* changed his position and was between the peer and the door.

6'ne moment+ sir+6 said he. 6To actuall* go off with the Mazarin stone would be a more serious offence than to be found in temporar* possession of it.6 6Sir+ this is intolerable8 %et me pass.6 6Put *our hand in the right/hand poc(et of *our overcoat.6 6.hat do *ou mean+ sir<6 6Come//come+ do what # as(.6 1n instant later the amazed peer was standing+ blin(ing and stammering+ with the great *ellow stone on his sha(ing palm. 6.hat8 .hat8 )ow is this+ Mr. )olmes<6 6Too bad+ %ord Cantlemere+ too bad86 cried )olmes. 6M* old friend here will tell *ou that # have an impish habit of practical =o(ing. 1lso that # can never resist a dramatic situation. # too( the libert*//the ver* great libert*+ # admit//of putting the stone into *our poc(et at the beginning of our interview.6 The old peer stared from the stone to the smiling face before him. 6Sir+ # am bewildered. But//*es//it is indeed the Mazarin stone. .e are greatl* *our debtors+ Mr. )olmes. ;our sense of humour ma*+ as *ou admit+ be somewhat perverted+ and its e hibition remar(abl* untimel*+ but at least # withdraw an* reflection # have made upon *our amazing professional powers. But how//6 6The case is but half finished0 the details can wait. :o doubt+ %ord Cantlemere+ *our pleasure in telling of this successful result in the e alted circle to which *ou return will be some

small atonement for m* practical =o(e. Bill*+ *ou will show his %ordship out+ and tell Mrs. )udson that # should be glad if she would send up dinner for two as soon as possible.6

AD$"!T%#" &&' TH" P# )*"M )#&DG"

F TH #

Somewhere in the vaults of the ban( of Co and Co.+ at Charing Cross+ there is a travel/worn and battered tin dispatchbo with m* name+ Bohn ). .atson+ M. -.+ %ate #ndian 1rm*+ painted upon the lid. #t is crammed with papers+ nearl* all of which are records of cases to illustrate the curious problems which Mr. Sherloc( )olmes had at various times to e amine. Some+ and not the least interesting+ were complete failures+ and as such will hardl* bear narrating+ since no final e planation is forthcoming. 1 problem without a solution ma* interest the student+ but can hardl* fail to anno* the casual reader. 1mong these unfinished tales is that of Mr. Bames Phillimore+ who+ stepping bac( into his own house to get his umbrella+ was never more seen in this world. :o less remar(able is that of the cutter 1licia+ which sailed one spring morning into a small patch of mist from where she never again emerged+ nor was an*thing further ever heard of herself and her crew. 1 third case worth* of note is that of #sadora Persano+ the well/(nown =ournalist and duellist+ who was found star( staring mad with a match bo in front of him which contained a remar(able worm said to be un(nown to science. 1part from these unfathomed cases+ there are some which involve the secrets of private families to an e tent which would mean consternation in man* e alted >uarters if it were thought possible that the* might find their wa* into print. # need not sa* that such a breach of confidence is unthin(able+ and that these records

will be separated and destro*ed now that m* friend has time to turn his energies to the matter. There remain a considerable residue of cases of greater or less interest which # might have edited before had # not feared to give the public a surfeit which might react upon the reputation of the man whom above all others # revere. #n some # was m*self concerned and can spea( as an e*e/witness+ while in others # was either not present or pla*ed so small a part that the* could onl* be told as b* a third person. The following narrative is drawn from m* own e perience. #t was a wild morning in 'ctober+ and # observed as # was dressing how the last remaining leaves were being whirled from the solitar* plane tree which graces the *ard behind our house. # descended to brea(fast prepared to find m* companion in depressed spirits+ for+ li(e all great artists+ he was easil* impressed b* his surroundings. 'n the contrar*+ # found that he had nearl* finished his meal+ and that his mood was particularl* bright and =o*ous+ with that somewhat sinister cheerfulness which was characteristic of his lighter moments. 6;ou have a case+ )olmes<6 # remar(ed. 6The facult* of deduction is certainl* contagious+ .atson+6 he answered. 6#t has enabled *ou to probe m* secret. ;es+ # have a case. 1fter a month of trivialities and stagnation the wheels move once more.6 6Might # share it<6 6There is little to share+ but we ma* discuss it when *ou have consumed the two hard/boiled eggs with which our new coo( has favoured us. Their condition ma* not be unconnected with the cop* of the ,amil* )erald which # observed

*esterda* upon the hall/table. 7ven so trivial a matter as coo(ing an egg demands an attention which is conscious of the passage of time and incompatible with the love romance in that e cellent periodical.6 1 >uarter of an hour later the table had been cleared and we were face to face. )e had drawn a letter from his poc(et. 6;ou have heard of :eil "ibson+ the "old Cing<6 he said. 6;ou mean the 1merican Senator<6 6.ell+ he was once Senator for some .estern state+ but is better (nown as the greatest gold/mining magnate in the world.6 6;es+ # (now of him. )e has surel* lived in 7ngland for some time. )is name is ver* familiar.6 6;es+ he bought a considerable estate in )ampshire some five *ears ago. Possibl* *ou have alread* heard of the tragic end of his wife<6 6'f course. # remember it now. That is wh* the name is familiar. But # reall* (now nothing of the details.6 )olmes waved his hand towards some papers on a chair. 6# had no idea that the case was coming m* wa* or # should have had m* e tracts read*+6 said he. 6The fact is that the problem+ though e ceedingl* sensational+ appeared to present no difficult*. The interesting personalit* of the accused does not obscure the clearness of the evidence. That was the view ta(en b* the coroner&s =ur* and also in the police/court proceedings. #t is now referred to the 1ssizes at .inchester. # fear it is a than(less business. # can discover facts+ .atson+ but # cannot change them. 9nless some

entirel* new and une pected ones come to light # do not see what m* client can hope for.6 6;our client<6 61h+ # forgot # had not told *ou. # am getting into *our involved habit+ .atson+ of telling a stor* bac(ward. ;ou had best read this first.6 The letter which he handed to me+ written in a bold+ masterful hand+ ran as follows@ C%1$#-"7&S )'T7%+'ctober 3rd. -71$ M$. S)7$%'CC )'%M7S@ # can&t see the best woman "od ever made go to her death without doing all that is possible to save her. # can&t e plain things//# can&t even tr* to e plain them+ but # (now be*ond all doubt that Miss -unbar is innocent. ;ou (now the facts//who doesn&t< #t has been the gossip of the countr*. 1nd never a voice raised for her8 #t&s the damned in=ustice of it all that ma(es me craz*. That woman has a heart that wouldn&t let her (ill a fl*. .ell+ #&ll come at eleven to/morrow and see if *ou can get some ra* of light in the dar(. Ma*be # have a clue and don&t (now it. 1n*how+ all # (now and all # have and all # am are for *our use if onl* *ou can save her. #f ever in *our life *ou showed *our powers+ put them now into this case. ;ours faithfull*+ B. :7#% "#BS':. 6There *ou have it+6 said Sherloc( )olmes+ (noc(ing out the ashes of his after/brea(fast pipe and slowl* refilling it. 6That

is the gentleman # await. 1s to the stor*+ *ou have hardl* time to master all these papers+ so # must give it to *ou in a nutshell if *ou are to ta(e an intelligent interest in the proceedings. This man is the greatest financial power in the world+ and a man+ as # understand+ of most violent and formidable character. )e married a wife+ the victim of this traged*+ of whom # (now nothing save that she was past her prime+ which was the more unfortunate as a ver* attractive governess superintended the education of two *oung children. These are the three people concerned+ and the scene is a grand old manor house+ the centre of a historical 7nglish state. Then as to the traged*. The wife was found in the grounds nearl* half a mile from the house+ late at night+ clad in her dinner dress+ with a shawl over her shoulders and a revolver bullet through her brain. :o weapon was found near her and there was no local clue as to the murder. :o weapon near her+ .atson//mar( that8 The crime seems to have been committed late in the evening+ and the bod* was found b* a game(eeper about eleven o&cloc(+ when it was e amined b* the police and b* a doctor before being carried up to the house. #s this too condensed+ or can *ou follow it clearl*<6 6#t is all ver* clear. But wh* suspect the governess<6 6.ell+ in the first place there is some ver* direct evidence. 1 revolver with one discharged chamber and a calibre which corresponded with the bullet was found on the floor of her wardrobe.6 )is e*es fi ed and he repeated in bro(en words+ 6'n//the//floor//of//her// wardrobe.6 Then he san( into silence+ and # saw that some train of thought had been set moving which # should be foolish to interrupt. Suddenl* with a start he emerged into bris( life once more. 6;es+ .atson+ it was found. Prett* damning+ eh< So the two =uries thought. Then the dead woman had a note upon her ma(ing an

appointment at that ver* place and signed b* the governess. )ow&s that< ,inall* there is the motive. Senator "ibson is an attractive person. #f his wife dies+ who more li(el* to succeed her than the *oung lad* who had alread* b* all accounts received pressing attentions from her emplo*er< %ove+ fortune+ power+ all depending upon one middleaged life. 9gl*+ .atson// ver* ugl*86 6;es+ indeed+ )olmes.6 6:or could she prove an alibi. 'n the contrar*+ she had to admit that she was down near Thor Bridge//that was the scene of the traged*// about that hour. She couldn&t den* it+ for some passing villager had seen her there.6 6That reall* seems final.6 61nd *et+ .atson//and *et8 This bridge//a single broad span of stone with balustraded sides//carries the drive over the narrowest part of a long+ deep+ reed/girt sheet of water. Thor Mere it is called. #n the mouth of the bridge la* the dead woman. Such are the main facts. But here+ if # mista(e not+ is our client+ considerabl* before his time.6 Bill* had opened the door+ but the name which he announced was an une pected one. Mr. Marlow Bates was a stranger to both of us. )e was a thin+ nervous wisp of a man with frightened e*es and a twitching+ hesitating manner//a man whom m* own professional e*e would =udge to be on the brin( of an absolute nervous brea(down. 6;ou seem agitated+ Mr. Bates+6 said )olmes. 6Pra* sit down. # fear # can onl* give *ou a short time+ for # have an appointment at eleven.6 6# (now *ou have+6 our visitor gasped+ shooting out short

sentences li(e a man who is out of breath. 6Mr. "ibson is coming. Mr. "ibson is m* emplo*er. # am manager of his estate. Mr. )olmes+ he is a villain// an infernal villain.6 6Strong language+ Mr. Bates.6 6# have to be emphatic+ Mr. )olmes+ for the time is so limited. # would not have him find me here for the world. )e is almost due now. But # was so situated that # could not come earlier. )is secretar*+ Mr. ,erguson+ onl* told me this morning of his appointment with *ou.6 61nd *ou are his manager<6 6# have given him notice. #n a couple of wee(s # shall have sha(en off his accursed slaver*. 1 hard man+ Mr. )olmes+ hard to all about him. Those public charities are a screen to cover his private ini>uities. But his wife was his chief victim. )e was brutal to her//*es+ sir+ brutal8 )ow she came b* her death # do not (now+ but # am sure that he had made her life a miser* to her. She was a creature of the tropics+ a Brazilian b* birth+ as no doubt *ou (now.6 6:o+ it had escaped me.6 6Tropical b* birth and tropical b* nature. 1 child of the sun and of passion. She had loved him as such women can love+ but when her own ph*sical charms had faded//# am told that the* once were great// there was nothing to hold him. .e all li(ed her and felt for her and hated him for the wa* that he treated her. But he is plausible and cunning. That is all # have to sa* to *ou. -on&t ta(e him at his face value. There is more behind. :ow #&ll go. :o+ no+ don&t detain me8 )e is almost due.6 .ith a frightened loo( at the cloc( our strange visitor literall*

ran to the door and disappeared. 6.ell8 .ell86 said )olmes after an interval of silence. 6Mr. "ibson seems to have a nice lo*al household. But the warning is a useful one+ and now we can onl* wait till the man himself appears.6 Sharp at the hour we heard a heav* step upon the stairs+ and the famous millionaire was shown into the room. 1s # loo(ed upon him # understood not onl* the fears and disli(e of his manager but also the e ecrations which so man* business rivals have heaped upon his head. #f # were a sculptor and desired to idealize the successful man of affairs+ iron of nerve and leather* of conscience+ # should choose Mr. :eil "ibson as m* model. )is tall+ gaunt+ cragg* figure had a suggestion of hunger and rapacit*. 1n 1braham %incoln (e*ed to base uses instead of high ones would give some idea of the man. )is face might have been chiselled in granite+ hard/set+ cragg*+ remorseless+ with deep lines upon it+ the scars of man* a crisis. Cold gra* e*es+ loo(ing shrewdl* out from under bristling brows+ surve*ed us each in turn. )e bowed in perfunctor* fashion as )olmes mentioned m* name+ and then with a masterful air of possession he drew a chair up to m* companion and seated himself with his bon* (nees almost touching him. 6%et me sa* right here+ Mr. )olmes+6 he began+ 6that mone* is nothing to me in this case. ;ou can burn it if it&s an* use in lighting *ou to the truth. This woman is innocent and this woman has to be cleared+ and it&s up to *ou to do it. :ame *our figure86 6M* professional charges are upon a fi ed scale+6 said )olmes coldl*. 6# do not var* them+ save when # remit them altogether.6

6.ell+ if dollars ma(e no difference to *ou+ thin( of the reputation. #f *ou pull this off ever* paper in 7ngland and 1merica will be booming *ou. ;ou&ll be the tal( of two continents.6 6Than( *ou+ Mr. "ibson+ # do not thin( that # am in need of booming. #t ma* surprise *ou to (now that # prefer to wor( anon*mousl*+ and that it is the problem itself which attracts me. But we are wasting time. %et us get down to the facts.6 6# thin( that *ou will find all the main ones in the press reports. # don&t (now that # can add an*thing which will help *ou. But if there is an*thing *ou would wish more light upon// well+ # am here to give it.6 6.ell+ there is =ust one point.6 6.hat is it<6 6.hat were the e act relations between *ou and Miss -unbar<6 The "old Cing gave a violent start and half rose from his chair. Then his massive calm came bac( to him. 6# suppose *ou are within *our rights//and ma*be doing *our dut*// in as(ing such a >uestion+ Mr. )olmes.6 6.e will agree to suppose so+6 said )olmes. 6Then # can assure *ou that our relations were entirel* and alwa*s those of an emplo*er towards a *oung lad* whom he never conversed with+ or ever saw+ save when she was in the compan* of his children.6 )olmes rose from his chair.

6# am a rather bus* man+ Mr. "ibson+6 said he+ 6and # have no time or taste for aimless conversations. # wish *ou goodmorning.6 'ur visitor had risen also+ and his great loose figure towered above )olmes. There was an angr* gleam from under those bristling brows and a tinge of colour in the sallow chee(s. 6.hat the devil do *ou mean b* this+ Mr. )olmes< -o *ou dismiss m* case<6 6.ell+ Mr. "ibson+ at least # dismiss *ou. # should have thought m* words were plain.6 6Plain enough+ but what&s at the bac( of it< $aising the price on me+ or afraid to tac(le it+ or what< #&ve a right to a plain answer.6 6.ell+ perhaps *ou have+6 said )olmes. 6#&ll give *ou one. This case is >uite sufficientl* complicated to start with without the further difficult* of false information.6 6Meaning that # lie.6 6.ell+ # was tr*ing to e press it as delicatel* as # could+ but if *ou insist upon the word # will not contradict *ou.6 # sprang to m* feet+ for the e pression upon the millionaire&s face was fiendish in its intensit*+ and he had raised his great (notted fist. )olmes smiled languidl* and reached his hand out for his pipe. 6-on&t be nois*+ Mr. "ibson. # find that after brea(fast even the smallest argument is unsettling. # suggest that a stroll in the morning air and a little >uiet thought will be greatl* to *our advantage.6

.ith an effort the "old Cing mastered his fur*. # could not but admire him+ for b* a supreme self/command he had turned in a minute from a hot flame of anger to a frigid and contemptuous indifference. 6.ell+ it&s *our choice. # guess *ou (now how to run *our own business. # can&t ma(e *ou touch the case against *our will. ;ou&ve done *ourself no good this morning+ Mr. )olmes+ for # have bro(en stronger men than *ou. :o man ever crossed me and was the better for it.6 6So man* have said so+ and *et here # am+6 said )olmes+ smiling. 6.ell+ good/morning+ Mr. "ibson. ;ou have a good deal *et to learn.6 'ur visitor made a nois* e it+ but )olmes smo(ed in imperturbable silence with dream* e*es fi ed upon the ceiling. 61n* views+ .atson<6 he as(ed at last. 6.ell+ )olmes+ # must confess that when # consider that this is a man who would certainl* brush an* obstacle from his path+ and when # remember that his wife ma* have been an obstacle and an ob=ect of disli(e+ as that man Bates plainl* told us+ it seems to me//6 67 actl*. 1nd to me also.6 6But what were his relations with the governess+ and how did *ou discover them<6 6Bluff+ .atson+ bluff8 .hen # considered the passionate+ unconventional+ unbusinessli(e tone of his letter and contrasted it with his self/contained manner and appearance+ it was prett* clear that there was some deep

emotion which centred upon the accused woman rather than upon the victim. .e&ve got to understand the e act relations of those three people if we are to reach the truth. ;ou saw the frontal attac( which # made upon him+ and how imperturbabl* he received it. Then # bluffed him b* giving him the impression that # was absolutel* certain+ when in realit* # was onl* e tremel* suspicious.6 6Perhaps he will come bac(<6 6)e is sure to come bac(. )e must come bac(. )e can&t leave it where it is. )a8 isn&t that a ring< ;es+ there is his footstep. .ell+ Mr. "ibson+ # was =ust sa*ing to -r. .atson that *ou were somewhat overdue.6 The "old Cing had reentered the room in a more chastened mood than he had left it. )is wounded pride still showed in his resentful e*es+ but his common sense had shown him that he must *ield if he would attain his end. 6#&ve been thin(ing it over+ Mr. )olmes+ and # feel that # have been hast* in ta(ing *our remar(s amiss. ;ou are =ustified in getting down to the facts+ whatever the* ma* be+ and # thin( the more of *ou for it. # can assure *ou+ however+ that the relations between Miss -unbar and me don&t reall* touch this case.6 6That is for me to decide+ is it not<6 6;es+ # guess that is so. ;ou&re li(e a surgeon who wants ever* s*mptom before he can give his diagnosis.6 67 actl*. That e presses it. 1nd it is onl* a patient who has an ob=ect in deceiving his surgeon who would conceal the facts of his case.6

6That ma* be so+ but *ou will admit+ Mr. )olmes+ that most men would sh* off a bit when the* are as(ed point/blan( what their relations with a woman ma* be//if there is reall* some serious feeling in the case. # guess most men have a little private reserve of their own in some corner of their souls where the* don&t welcome intruders. 1nd *ou burst suddenl* into it. But the ob=ect e cuses *ou+ since it was to tr* and save her. .ell+ the sta(es are down and the reserve open+ and *ou can e plore where *ou will. .hat is it *ou want<6 6The truth.6 The "old Cing paused for a moment as one who marshals his thoughts. )is grim+ deep/lined face had become even sadder and more grave. 6# can give it to *ou in a ver* few words+ Mr. )olmes+6 said he at last. 6There are some things that are painful as well as difficult to sa*+ so # won&t go deeper than is needful. # met m* wife when # was gold/hunting in Brazil. Maria Pinto was the daughter of a government official at Manaos+ and she was ver* beautiful. # was *oung and ardent in those da*s+ but even now+ as # loo( bac( with colder blood and a more critical e*e+ # can see that she was rare and wonderful in her beaut*. #t was a deep rich nature+ too+ passionate+ whole/ hearted+ tropical+ ill/balanced+ ver* different from the 1merican women whom # had (nown. .ell+ to ma(e a long stor* short+ # loved her and # married her. #t was onl* when the romance had passed//and it lingered for *ears//that # realized that we had nothing//absolutel* nothing// in common. M* love faded. #f hers had faded also it might have been easier. But *ou (now the wonderful wa* of women8 -o what # might+ nothing could turn her from me. #f # have been harsh to her+ even brutal as some have said+ it has been because # (new that if # could (ill her love+ or if it turned to

hate+ it would be easier for both of us. But nothing changed her. She adored me in those 7nglish woods as she had adored me twent* *ears ago on the ban(s of the 1mazon. -o what # might+ she was as devoted as ever. 6Then came Miss "race -unbar. She answered our advertisement and became governess to our two children. Perhaps *ou have seen her portrait in the papers. The whole world has proclaimed that she also is a ver* beautiful woman. :ow+ # ma(e no pretence to be more moral than m* neighbours+ and # will admit to *ou that # could not live under the same roof with such a woman and in dail* contact with her without feeling a passionate regard for her. -o *ou blame me+ Mr. )olmes<6 6# do not blame *ou for feeling it. # should blame *ou if *ou e pressed it+ since this *oung lad* was in a sense under *our protection.6 6.ell+ ma*be so+6 said the millionaire+ though for a moment the reproof had brought the old angr* gleam into his e*es. 6#&m not pretending to be an* better than # am. # guess all m* life #&ve been a man that reached out his hand for what he wanted+ and # never wanted an*thing more than the love and possession of that woman. # told her so.6 6'h+ *ou did+ did *ou<6 )olmes could loo( ver* formidable when he was moved. 6# said to her that if # could marr* her # would+ but that it was out of m* power. # said that mone* was no ob=ect and that all # could do to ma(e her happ* and comfortable would be done.6 6!er* generous+ # am sure+6 said )olmes with a sneer.

6See here+ Mr. )olmes. # came to *ou on a >uestion of evidence+ not on a >uestion of morals. #&m not as(ing for *our criticism.6 6#t is onl* for the *oung lad*&s sa(e that # touch *our case at all+6 said )olmes sternl*. 6# don&t (now that an*thing she is accused of is reall* worse than what *ou have *ourself admitted+ that *ou have tried to ruin a defenceless girl who was under *our roof. Some of *ou rich men have to be taught that all the world cannot be bribed into condoning *our offences.6 To m* surprise the "old Cing too( the reproof with e>uanimit*. 6That&s how # feel m*self about it now. # than( "od that m* plans did not wor( out as # intended. She would have none of it+ and she wanted to leave the house instantl*.6 6.h* did she not<6 6.ell+ in the first place+ others were dependent upon her+ and it was no light matter for her to let them all down b* sacrificing her living. .hen # had sworn//as # did//that she should never be molested again+ she consented to remain. But there was another reason. She (new the influence she had over me+ and that it was stronger than an* other influence in the world. She wanted to use it for good.6 6)ow<6 6.ell+ she (new something of m* affairs. The* are large+ Mr. )olmes// large be*ond the belief of an ordinar* man. # can ma(e or brea(//and it is usuall* brea(. #t wasn&t individuals onl*. #t was communities+ cities+ even nations. Business is a hard game+ and the wea( go to the wall. # pla*ed the game

for all it was worth. # never s>uealed m*self+ and # never cared if the other fellow s>uealed. But she saw it different. # guess she was right. She believed and said that a fortune for one man that was more than he needed should not be built on ten thousand ruined men who were left without the means of life. That was how she saw it+ and # guess she could see past the dollars to something that was more lasting. She found that # listened to what she said+ and she believed she was serving the world b* influencing m* actions. So she sta*ed//and then this came along.6 6Can *ou throw an* light upon that<6 The "old Cing paused for a minute or more+ his head sun( in his hands+ lost in deep thought. 6#t&s ver* blac( against her. # can&t den* that. 1nd women lead an inward life and ma* do things be*ond the =udgment of a man. 1t first # was so rattled and ta(en abac( that # was read* to thin( she had been led awa* in some e traordinar* fashion that was clean against her usual nature. 'ne e planation came into m* head. # give it to *ou+ Mr. )olmes+ for what it is worth. There is no doubt that m* wife was bitterl* =ealous. There is a soul/=ealous* that can be as frantic as an* bod*/=ealous*+ and though m* wife had no cause//and # thin( she understood this//for the latter+ she was aware that this 7nglish girl e erted an influence upon m* mind and m* acts that she herself never had. #t was an influence for good+ but that did not mend the matter. She was craz* with hatred and the heat of the 1mazon was alwa*s in her blood. She might have planned to murder Miss -unbar//or we will sa* to threaten her with a gun and so frighten her into leaving us. Then there might have been a scuffle and the gun gone off and shot the woman who held it.6

6That possibilit* had alread* occurred to me+6 said )olmes. 6#ndeed+ it is the onl* obvious alternative to deliberate murder.6 6But she utterl* denies it.6 6.ell+ that is not final//is it< 'ne can understand that a woman placed in so awful a position might hurr* home still in her bewilderment holding the revolver. She might even throw it down among her clothes+ hardl* (nowing what she was doing+ and when it was found she might tr* to lie her wa* out b* a total denial+ since all e planation was impossible. .hat is against such a supposition<6 6Miss -unbar herself.6 6.ell+ perhaps.6 )olmes loo(ed at his watch. 6# have no doubt we can get the necessar* permits this morning and reach .inchester b* the evening train. .hen # have seen this *oung lad* it is ver* possible that # ma* be of more use to *ou in the matter+ though # cannot promise that m* conclusions will necessaril* be such as *ou desire.6 There was some dela* in the official pass+ and instead of reaching .inchester that da* we went down to Thor Place+ the )ampshire estate of Mr. :eil "ibson. )e did not accompan* us himself+ but we had the address of Sergeant Coventr*+ of the local police+ who had first e amined into the affair. )e was a tall+ thin+ cadaverous man+ with a secretive and m*sterious manner which conve*ed the idea that he (new or suspected a ver* great deal more than he dared sa*. )e had a tric(+ too+ of suddenl* sin(ing his voice to a whisper as if he had come upon something of vital

importance+ though the information was usuall* commonplace enough. Behind these tric(s of manner he soon showed himself to be a decent+ honest fellow who was not too proud to admit that he was out of his depth and would welcome an* help. 61n*how+ #&d rather have *ou than Scotland ;ard+ Mr. )olmes+6 said he. 6#f the ;ard gets called into a case+ then the local loses all credit for success and ma* be blamed for failure. :ow+ *ou pla* straight+ so #&ve heard.6 6# need not appear in the matter at all+6 said )olmes to the evident relief of our melanchol* ac>uaintance. 6#f # can clear it up # don&t as( to have m* name mentioned.6 6.ell+ it&s ver* handsome of *ou+ # am sure. 1nd *our friend+ -r. .atson+ can be trusted+ # (now. :ow+ Mr. )olmes+ as we wal( down to the place there is one >uestion # should li(e to as( *ou. #&d breathe it to no soul but *ou.6 )e loo(ed round as though he hardl* dare utter the words. 6-on&t *ou thin( there might be a case against Mr. :eil "ibson himself<6 6# have been considering that.6 6;ou&ve not seen Miss -unbar. She is a wonderful fine woman in ever* wa*. )e ma* well have wished his wife out of the road. 1nd these 1mericans are readier with pistols than our fol( are. #t was his pistol+ *ou (now.6 6.as that clearl* made out<6 6;es+ sir. #t was one of a pair that he had.6 6'ne of a pair< .here is the other<6 6.ell+ the gentleman has a lot of firearms of one sort and

another. .e never >uite matched that particular pistol//but the bo was made for two.6 6#f it was one of a pair *ou should surel* be able to match it.6 6.ell+ we have them all laid out at the house if *ou would care to loo( them over.6 6%ater+ perhaps. # thin( we will wal( down together and have a loo( at the scene of the traged*.6 This conversation had ta(en place in the little front room of Sergeant Coventr*&s humble cottage which served as the local police/station. 1 wal( of half a mile or so across a wind/ swept heath+ all gold and bronze with the fading ferns+ brought us to a side/gate opening into the grounds of the Thor Place estate. 1 path led us through the pheasant preserves+ and then from a clearing we saw the widespread+ half/timbered house+ half Tudor and half "eorgian+ upon the crest of the hill. Beside us there was a long+ reed* pool+ constricted in the centre where the main carriage drive passed over a stone bridge+ but swelling into small la(es on either side. 'ur guide paused at the mouth of this bridge+ and he pointed to the ground. 6That was where Mrs. "ibson&s bod* la*. # mar(ed it b* that stone.6 6# understand that *ou were there before it was moved<6 6;es+ the* sent for me at once.6 6.ho did<6 6Mr. "ibson himself. The moment the alarm was given and he had rushed down with others from the house+ he insisted

that nothing should be moved until the police should arrive.6 6That was sensible. # gathered from the newspaper report that the shot was fired from close >uarters.6 6;es+ sir+ ver* close.6 6:ear the right temple<6 6Bust behind it+ sir.6 6)ow did the bod* lie<6 6'n the bac(+ sir. :o trace of a struggle. :o mar(s. :o weapon. The short note from Miss -unbar was clutched in her left hand.6 6Clutched+ *ou sa*<6 6;es+ sir+ we could hardl* open the fingers.6 6That is of great importance. #t e cludes the idea that an*one could have placed the note there after death in order to furnish a false clue. -ear me8 The note+ as # remember+ was >uite short@ 6&# will be at Thor Bridge at nine o&cloc(. ". -9:B1$.& 6.as that not so<6 6;es+ sir.6 6-id Miss -unbar admit writing it<6 6;es+ sir.6 6.hat was her e planation<6

6)er defence was reserved for the 1ssizes. She would sa* nothing.6 6The problem is certainl* a ver* interesting one. The point of the letter is ver* obscure+ is it not<6 6.ell+ sir+6 said the guide+ 6it seemed+ if # ma* be so bold as to sa* so+ the onl* reall* clear point in the whole case.6 )olmes shoo( his head. 6"ranting that the letter is genuine and was reall* written+ it was certainl* received some time before//sa* one hour or two. .h*+ then+ was this lad* still clasping it in her left hand< .h* should she carr* it so carefull*< She did not need to refer to it in the interview. -oes it not seem remar(able<6 6.ell+ sir+ as *ou put it+ perhaps it does.6 6# thin( # should li(e to sit >uietl* for a few minutes and thin( it out.6 )e seated himself upon the stone ledge of the bridge+ and # could see his >uic( gra* e*es darting their >uestioning glances in ever* direction. Suddenl* he sprang up again and ran across to the opposite parapet+ whipped his lens from his poc(et+ and began to e amine the stonewor(. 6This is curious+6 said he. 6;es+ sir+ we saw the chip on the ledge. # e pect it&s been done b* some passer/b*.6 The stonewor( was gra*+ but at this one point it showed white for a space not larger than a si pence. .hen e amined closel* one could see that the surface was chipped as b* a sharp blow.

6#t too( some violence to do that+6 said )olmes thoughtfull*. .ith his cane he struc( the ledge several times without leaving a mar(. 6;es+ it was a hard (noc(. #n a curious place+ too. #t was not from above but from below+ for *ou see that it is on the lower edge of the parapet.6 6But it is at least fifteen feet from the bod*.6 6;es+ it is fifteen feet from the bod*. #t ma* have nothing to do with the matter+ but it is a point worth noting. # do not thin( that we have an*thing more to learn here. There were no footsteps+ *ou sa*<6 6The ground was iron hard+ sir. There were no traces at all.6 6Then we can go. .e will go up to the house first and loo( over these weapons of which *ou spea(. Then we shall get on to .inchester+ for # should desire to see Miss -unbar before we go farther.6 Mr. :eil "ibson had not returned from town+ but we saw in the house the neurotic Mr. Bates who had called upon us in the morning. )e showed us with a sinister relish the formidable arra* of firearms of various shapes and sizes which his emplo*er had accumulated in the course of an adventurous life. 6Mr. "ibson has his enemies+ as an*one would e pect who (new him and his methods+6 said he. 6)e sleeps with a loaded revolver in the drawer beside his bed. )e is a man of violence+ sir+ and there are times when all of us are afraid of him. # am sure that the poor lad* who has passed was often terrified.6 6-id *ou ever witness ph*sical violence towards her<6

6:o+ # cannot sa* that. But # have heard words which were nearl* as bad //words of cold+ cutting contempt+ even before the servants.6 6'ur millionaire does not seem to shine in private life+6 remar(ed )olmes as we made our wa* to the station. 6.ell+ .atson+ we have come on a good man* facts+ some of them new ones+ and *et # seem some wa* from m* conclusion. #n spite of the ver* evident disli(e which Mr. Bates has to his emplo*er+ # gather from him that when the alarm came he was undoubtedl* in his librar*. -inner was over at 3@3D and all was normal up to then. #t is true that the alarm was somewhat late in the evening+ but the traged* certainl* occurred about the hour named in the note. There is no evidence at all that Mr. "ibson had been out of doors since his return from town at five o&cloc(. 'n the other hand+ Miss -unbar+ as # understand it+ admits that she had made an appointment to meet Mrs. "ibson at the bridge. Be*ond this she would sa* nothing+ as her law*er had advised her to reserve her defence. .e have several ver* vital >uestions to as( that *oung lad*+ and m* mind will not be eas* until we have seen her. # must confess that the case would seem to me to be ver* blac( against her if it were not for one thing.6 61nd what is that+ )olmes<6 6The finding of the pistol in her wardrobe.6 6-ear me+ )olmes86 # cried+ 6that seemed to me to be the most damning incident of all.6 6:ot so+ .atson. #t had struc( me even at m* first perfunctor* reading as ver* strange+ and now that # am in closer touch with the case it is m* onl* firm ground for hope. .e must loo( for consistenc*. .here there is a want of it we

must suspect deception.6 6# hardl* follow *ou.6 6.ell now+ .atson+ suppose for a moment that we visualize *ou in the character of a woman who+ in a cold+ premeditated fashion+ is about to get rid of a rival. ;ou have planned it. 1 note has been written. The victim has come. ;ou have *our weapon. The crime is done. #t has been wor(manli(e and complete. -o *ou tell me that after carr*ing out so craft* a crime *ou would now ruin *our reputation as a criminal b* forgetting to fling *our weapon into those ad=acent reed/beds which would forever cover it+ but *ou must needs carr* it carefull* home and put it in *our own wardrobe+ the ver* first place that would be searched< ;our best friends would hardl* call *ou a schemer+ .atson+ and *et # could not picture *ou doing an*thing so crude as that.6 6#n the e citement of the moment.6 6:o+ no+ .atson+ # will not admit that it is possible. .here a crime is cooll* premeditated+ then the means of covering it are cooll* premeditated also. # hope+ therefore+ that we are in the presence of a serious misconception.6 6But there is so much to e plain.6 6.ell+ we shall set about e plaining it. .hen once *our point of view is changed+ the ver* thing which was so damning becomes a clue to the truth. ,or e ample+ there is this revolver. Miss -unbar disclaims all (nowledge of it. 'n our new theor* she is spea(ing truth when she sa*s so. Therefore+ it was placed in her wardrobe. .ho placed it there< Someone who wished to incriminate her. .as not that person the actual criminal< ;ou see how we come at

once upon a most fruitful line of in>uir*.6 .e were compelled to spend the night at .inchester+ as the formalities had not *et been completed+ but ne t morning+ in the compan* of Mr. Bo*ce Cummings+ the rising barrister who was entrusted with the defence+ we were allowed to see the *oung lad* in her cell. # had e pected from all that we had heard to see a beautiful woman+ but # can never forget the effect which Miss -unbar produced upon me. #t was no wonder that even the masterful millionaire had found in her something more powerful than himself//something which could control and guide him. 'ne felt+ too+ as one loo(ed at the strong+ clear/cut+ and *et sensitive face+ that even should she be capable of some impetuous deed+ none the less there was an innate nobilit* of character which would ma(e her influence alwa*s for the good. She was a brunette+ tall+ with a noble figure and commanding presence+ but her dar( e*es had in them the appealing+ helpless e pression of the hunted creature who feels the nets around it+ but can see no wa* out from the toils. :ow+ as she realized the presence and the help of m* famous friend+ there came a touch of colour in her wan chee(s and a light of hope began to glimmer in the glance which she turned upon us. 6Perhaps Mr. :eil "ibson has told *ou something of what occurred between us<6 she as(ed in a low+ agitated voice. 6;es+6 )olmes answered+ 6*ou need not pain *ourself b* entering into that part of the stor*. 1fter seeing *ou+ # am prepared to accept Mr. "ibson&s statement both as to the influence which *ou had over him and as to the innocence of *our relations with him. But wh* was the whole situation not brought out in court<6 6#t seemed to me incredible that such a charge could be

sustained. # thought that if we waited the whole thing must clear itself up without our being compelled to enter into painful details of the inner life of the famil*. But # understand that far from clearing it has become even more serious.6 6M* dear *oung lad*+6 cried )olmes earnestl*+ 6# beg *ou to have no illusions upon the point. Mr. Cummings here would assure *ou that all the cards are at present against us+ and that we must do ever*thing that is possible if we are to win clear. #t would be a cruel deception to pretend that *ou are not in ver* great danger. "ive me all the help *ou can+ then+ to get at the truth.6 6# will conceal nothing.6 6Tell us+ then+ of *our true relations with Mr. "ibson&s wife.6 6She hated me+ Mr. )olmes. She hated me with all the fervour of her tropical nature. She was a woman who would do nothing b* halves+ and the measure of her love for her husband was the measure also of her hatred for me. #t is probable that she misunderstood our relations. # would not wish to wrong her+ but she loved so vividl* in a ph*sical sense that she could hardl* understand the mental+ and even spiritual+ tie which held her husband to me+ or imagine that it was onl* m* desire to influence his power to good ends which (ept me under his roof. # can see now that # was wrong. :othing could =ustif* me in remaining where # was a cause of unhappiness+ and *et it is certain that the unhappiness would have remained even if # had left the house.6 6:ow+ Miss -unbar+6 said )olmes+ 6# beg *ou to tell us e actl* what occurred that evening.6

6# can tell *ou the truth so far as # (now it+ Mr. )olmes+ but # am in a position to prove nothing+ and there are points//the most vital points//which # can neither e plain nor can # imagine an* e planation.6 6#f *ou will find the facts+ perhaps others ma* find the e planation.6 6.ith regard+ then+ to m* presence at Thor Bridge that night+ # received a note from Mrs. "ibson in the morning. #t la* on the table of the schoolroom+ and it ma* have been left there b* her own hand. #t implored me to see her there after dinner+ said she had something important to sa* to me+ and as(ed me to leave an answer on the sundial in the garden+ as she desired no one to be in our confidence. # saw no reason for such secrec*+ but # did as she as(ed+ accepting the appointment. She as(ed me to destro* her note and # burned it in the schoolroom grate. She was ver* much afraid of her husband+ who treated her with a harshness for which # fre>uentl* reproached him+ and # could onl* imagine that she acted in this wa* because she did not wish him to (now of our interview.6 6;et she (ept *our repl* ver* carefull*<6 6;es. # was surprised to hear that she had it in her hand when she died.6 6.ell+ what happened then<6 6# went down as # had promised. .hen # reached the bridge she was waiting for me. :ever did # realize till that moment how this poor creature hated me. She was li(e a mad woman//indeed+ # thin( she was a mad woman+ subtl* mad with the deep power of deception which insane people ma*

have. )ow else could she have met me with unconcern ever* da* and *et had so raging a hatred of me in her heart< # will not sa* what she said. She poured her whole wild fur* out in burning and horrible words. # did not even answer//# could not. #t was dreadful to see her. # put m* hands to m* ears and rushed awa*. .hen # left her she was standing+ still shrie(ing out her curses at me+ in the mouth of the bridge.6 6.here she was afterwards found<6 6.ithin a few *ards from the spot.6 61nd *et+ presuming that she met her death shortl* after *ou left her+ *ou heard no shot<6 6:o+ # heard nothing. But+ indeed+ Mr. )olmes+ # was so agitated and horrified b* this terrible outbrea( that # rushed to get bac( to the peace of m* own room+ and # was incapable of noticing an*thing which happened.6 6;ou sa* that *ou returned to *our room. -id *ou leave it again before ne t morning<6 6;es+ when the alarm came that the poor creature had met her death # ran out with the others.6 6-id *ou see Mr. "ibson<6 6;es+ he had =ust returned from the bridge when # saw him. )e had sent for the doctor and the police.6 6-id he seem to *ou much perturbed<6 6Mr. "ibson is a ver* strong+ self/contained man. # do not thin( that he would ever show his emotions on the surface. But #+ who (new him so well+ could see that he was deepl*

concerned.6 6Then we come to the all/important point. This pistol that was found in *our room. )ad *ou ever seen it before<6 6:ever+ # swear it.6 6.hen was it found<6 6:e t morning+ when the police made their search.6 61mong *our clothes<6 6;es+ on the floor of m* wardrobe under m* dresses.6 6;ou could not guess how long it had been there<6 6#t had not been there the morning before.6 6)ow do *ou (now<6 6Because # tidied out the wardrobe.6 6That is final. Then someone came into *our room and placed the pistol there in order to inculpate *ou.6 6#t must have been so.6 61nd when<6 6#t could onl* have been at meal/time+ or else at the hours when # would be in the schoolroom with the children.6 61s *ou were when *ou got the note<6 6;es+ from that time onward for the whole morning.6

6Than( *ou+ Miss -unbar. #s there an* other point which could help me in the investigation<6 6# can thin( of none.6 6There was some sign of violence on the stonewor( of the bridge//a perfectl* fresh chip =ust opposite the bod*. Could *ou suggest an* possible e planation of that<6 6Surel* it must be a mere coincidence.6 6Curious+ Miss -unbar+ ver* curious. .h* should it appear at the ver* time of the traged*+ and wh* at the ver* place<6 6But what could have caused it< 'nl* great violence could have such an effect.6 )olmes did not answer. )is pale+ eager face had suddenl* assumed that tense+ far/awa* e pression which # had learned to associate with the supreme manifestations of his genius. So evident was the crisis in his mind that none of us dared to spea(+ and we sat+ barrister+ prisoner+ and m*self+ watching him in a concentrated and absorbed silence. Suddenl* he sprang from his chair+ vibrating with nervous energ* and the pressing need for action. 6Come+ .atson+ come86 he cried. 6.hat is it+ Mr. )olmes<6 6:ever mind+ m* dear lad*. ;ou will hear from me+ Mr. Cummings. .ith the help of the god of =ustice # will give *ou a case which will ma(e 7ngland ring. ;ou will get news b* to/morrow+ Miss -unbar+ and meanwhile ta(e m* assurance that the clouds are lifting and that # have ever* hope that the light of truth is brea(ing through.6

#t was not a long =ourne* from .inchester to Thor Place+ but it was long to me in m* impatience+ while for )olmes it was evident that it seemed endless0 for+ in his nervous restlessness he could not sit still+ but paced the carriage or drummed with his long+ sensitive fingers upon the cushions beside him. Suddenl*+ however+ as we neared our destination he seated himself opposite to me//we had a first/ class carriage to ourselves//and la*ing a hand upon each of m* (nees he loo(ed into m* e*es with the peculiarl* mischievous gaze which was charactenstic of his more imp/ li(e moods. 6.atson+6 said he+ 6# have some recollection that *ou go armed upon these e cursions of ours.6 #t was as well for him that # did so+ for he too( little care for his own safet* when his mind was once absorbed b* a problem so that more than once m* revolver had been a good friend in need. # reminded him of the fact. 6;es+ *es+ # am a little absent/minded in such matters. But have *ou *our revolver on *ou<6 # produced it from m* hip/poc(et+ a short+ hand*+ but ver* serviceable little weapon. )e undid the catch+ shoo( out the cartridges+ and e amined it with care. 6#t&s heav*//remar(abl* heav*+6 said he. 6;es+ it is a solid bit of wor(.6 )e mused over it for a minute. 6-o *ou (now+ .atson+6 said he+ 6# believe *our revolver is going to have a ver* intimate connection with the m*ster* which we are investigating.6

6M* dear )olmes+ *ou are =o(ing.6 6:o+ .atson+ # am ver* serious. There is a test before us. #f the test comes off+ all will be clear. 1nd the test will depend upon the conduct of this little weapon. 'ne cartridge out. :ow we will replace the other five and put on the safet*/ catch. So8 That increases the weight and ma(es it a better reproduction.6 # had no glimmer of what was in his mind+ nor did he enlighten me+ but sat lost in thought until we pulled up in the little )ampshire station. .e secured a ramshac(le trap+ and in a >uarter of an hour were at the house of our confidential friend+ the sergeant. 61 clue+ Mr. )olmes< .hat is it<6 6#t all depends upon the behaviour of -r. .atson&s revolver+6 said m* friend. 6)ere it is. :ow+ officer+ can *ou give me ten *ards of string<6 The village shop provided a ball of stout twine. 6# thin( that this is all we will need+6 said )olmes. 6:ow+ if *ou please+ we will get off on what # hope is the last stage of our =ourne*.6 The sun was setting and turning the rolling )ampshire moor into a wonderful autumnal panorama. The sergeant+ with man* critical and incredulous glances+ which showed his deep doubts of the sanit* of m* companion+ lurched along beside us. 1s we approached the scene of the crime # could see that m* friend under all his habitual coolness was in truth deepl* agitated. 6;es+6 he said in answer to m* remar(+ 6*ou have seen me

miss m* mar( before+ .atson. # have an instinct for such things+ and *et it has sometimes pla*ed me false. #t seemed a certaint* when first it flashed across m* mind in the cell at .inchester+ but one drawbac( of an active mind is that one can alwa*s conceive alternative e planations which would ma(e our scent a false one. 1nd *et//and *et//.ell+ .atson+ we can but tr*.6 1s he wal(ed he had firml* tied one end of the string to the handle of the revolver. .e had now reached the scene of the traged*. .ith great care he mar(ed out under the guidance of the policeman the e act spot where the bod* had been stretched. )e then hunted among the heather and the ferns until he found a considerable stone. This he secured to the other end of his line of string+ and he hung it over the parapet of the bridge so that it swung clear above the water. )e then stood on the fatal spot+ some distance from the edge of the bridge+ with m* revolver in his hand+ the string being taut between the weapon and the heav* stone on the farther side. 6:ow for it86 he cried. 1t the words he raised the pistol to his head+ and then let go his grip. #n an instant it had been whis(ed awa* b* the weight of the stone+ had struc( with a sharp crac( against the parapet+ and had vanished over the side into the water. #t had hardl* gone before )olmes was (neeling beside the stonewor(+ and a =o*ous cr* showed that he had found what he e pected. 6.as there ever a more e act demonstration<6 he cried. 6See+ .atson+ *our revolver has solved the problem86 1s he spo(e he pointed to a second chip of the e act size and shape of the first which had appeared on the under edge of

the stone balustrade. 6.e&ll sta* at the inn to/night+6 he continued as he rose and faced the astonished sergeant. 6;ou will+ of course+ get a grappling/hoo( and *ou will easil* restore m* friend&s revolver. ;ou will also find beside it the revolver+ string and weight with which this vindictive woman attempted to disguise her own crime and to fasten a charge of murder upon an innocent victim. ;ou can let Mr. "ibson (now that # will see him in the morning+ when steps can be ta(en for Miss -unbar&s vindication.6 %ate that evening+ as we sat together smo(ing our pipes in the village inn+ )olmes gave me a brief review of what had passed. 6# fear+ .atson+6 said he+ 6that *ou will not improve an* reputation which # ma* have ac>uired b* adding the case of the Thor Bridge m*ster* to *our annals. # have been sluggish in mind and wanting in that mi ture of imagination and realit* which is the basis of m* art. # confess that the chip in the stonewor( was a sufficient clue to suggest the true solution+ and that # blame m*self for not having attained it sooner. 6#t must be admitted that the wor(ings of this unhapp* woman&s mind were deep and subtle+ so that it was no ver* simple matter to unravel her plot. # do not thin( that in our adventures we have ever come across a stranger e ample of what perverted love can bring about. .hether Miss -unbar was her rival in a ph*sical or in a merel* mental sense seems to have been e>uall* unforgivable in her e*es. :o doubt she blamed this innocent lad* for all those harsh dealings and un(ind words with which her husband tried to repel her too demonstrative affection. )er first resolution was to end her own life. )er second was to do it in such a wa* as

to involve her victim in a fate which was worse far than an* sudden death could be. 6.e can follow the various steps >uite clearl*+ and the* show a remar(able subtlet* of mind. 1 note was e tracted ver* cleverl* from Miss -unbar which would ma(e it appear that she had chosen the scene of the crime. #n her an iet* that it should be discovered she somewhat overdid it b* holding it in her hand to the last. This alone should have e cited m* suspicions earlier than it did. 6Then she too( one of her husband&s revolvers//there was+ as *ou saw+ an arsenal in the house//and (ept it for her own use. 1 similar one she concealed that morning in Miss -unbar&s wardrobe after discharging one barrel+ which she could easil* do in the woods without attracting attention. She then went down to the bridge where she had contrived this e ceedingl* ingenious method for getting rid of her weapon. .hen Miss -unbar appeared she used her last breath in pouring out her hatred+ and then+ when she was out of hearing+ carried out her terrible purpose. 7ver* lin( is now in its place and the chain is complete. The papers ma* as( wh* the mere was not dragged in the first instance+ but it is eas* to be wise after the event+ and in an* case the e panse of a reed/filled la(e is no eas* matter to drag unless *ou have a clear perception of what *ou are loo(ing for and where. .ell+ .atson+ we have helped a remar(able woman+ and also a formidable man. Should the* in the future =oin their forces+ as seems not unli(el*+ the financial world ma* find that Mr. :eil "ibson has learned something in that schoolroom of sorrow where our earthl* lessons are taught.6

AD$"!T%#" &&&' TH" AD$"!T%#" C#""P&!G MA!

F TH"

Mr. Sherloc( )olmes was alwa*s of opinion that # should publish the singular facts connected with Professor Presbur*+ if onl* to dispel once for all the ugl* rumours which some twent* *ears ago agitated the universit* and were echoed in the learned societies of %ondon. There were+ however+ certain obstacles in the wa*+ and the true histor* of this curious case remained entombed in the tin bo which contains so man* records of m* friend&s adventures. :ow we have at last obtained permission to ventilate the facts which formed one of the ver* last cases handled b* )olmes before his retirement from practice. 7ven now a certain reticence and discretion have to be observed in la*ing the matter before the public. #t was one Sunda* evening earl* in September of the *ear 25D3 that # received one of )olmes&s laconic messages@ Come at once if convenient//if inconvenient come all the same. S.). The relations between us in those latter da*s were peculiar. )e was a man of habits+ narrow and concentrated habits+ and # had become one of them. 1s an institution # was li(e the violin+ the shag tobacco+ the old blac( pipe+ the inde boo(s+ and others perhaps less e cusable. .hen it was a case of active wor( and a comrade was needed upon whose nerve he could place some reliance+ m* role was obvious. But apart from this # had uses. # was a whetstone for his mind. # stimulated him. )e li(ed to thin( aloud in m* presence. )is remar(s could hardl* be said to be made to me//man* of them would have been as appropriatel* addressed to his bedstead//but none the less+ having formed the habit+ it had become in some wa* helpful that # should register and inter=ect. #f # irritated him b* a certain methodical slowness in m* mentalit*+ that irritation served onl* to ma(e

his own flame/li(e intuitions and impressions flash up the more vividl* and swiftl*. Such was m* humble role in our alliance. .hen # arrived at Ba(er Street # found him huddled up in his armchair with updrawn (nees+ his pipe in his mouth and his brow furrowed with thought. #t was clear that he was in the throes of some ve atious problem. .ith a wave of his hand he indicated m* old armchair+ but otherwise for half an hour he gave no sign that he was aware of m* presence. Then with a start he seemed to come from his reverie+ and with his usual whimsical smile he greeted me bac( to what had once been m* home. 6;ou will e cuse a certain abstraction of mind+ m* dear .atson+6 said he. 6Some curious facts have been submitted to me within the last twent*/four hours+ and the* in turn have given rise to some speculations of a more general character. # have serious thoughts of writing a small monograph upon the uses of dogs in the wor( of the detective.6 6But surel*+ )olmes+ this has been e plored+6 said #. 6Bloodhounds// sleuth/hounds//6 6:o+ no+ .atson+ that side of the matter is+ of course+ obvious. But there is another which is far more subtle. ;ou ma* recollect that in the case which *ou+ in *our sensational wa*+ coupled with the Copper Beeches+ # was able+ b* watching the mind of the child+ to form a deduction as to the criminal habits of the ver* smug and respectable father.6 6;es+ # remember it well.6 6M* line of thoughts about dogs is analogous. 1 dog reflects the famil* life. .hoever saw a fris(* dog in a gloom* famil*+

or a sad dog in a happ* one< Snarling people have snarling dogs+ dangerous people have dangerous ones. 1nd their passing moods ma* reflect the passing moods of others.6 # shoo( m* head. 6Surel*+ )olmes+ this is a little far/fetched+6 said #. )e had refilled his pipe and resumed his seat+ ta(ing no notice of m* comment. 6The practical application of what # have said is ver* close to the problem which # am investigating. #t is a tangled s(ein+ *ou understand. and # am loo(ing for a loose end. 'ne possible loose end lies in the >uestion@ .h* does Professor Presbur*&s wolfhound+ $o*+ endeavour to bite him<6 # san( bac( in m* chair in some disappointment. .as it for so trivial a >uestion as this that # had been summoned from m* wor(< )olmes glanced across at me. 6The same old .atson86 said he. 6;ou never learn that the gravest issues ma* depend upon the smallest things. But is it not on the face of it strange that a staid+ elderl* philosopher//*ou&ve heard of Presbur*+ of course+ the famous Camford ph*siologist<//that such a man+ whose friend has been his devoted wolfhound+ should now have been twice attac(ed b* his own dog< .hat do *ou ma(e of it<6 6The dog is ill.6 6.ell+ that has to be considered. But he attac(s no one else+ nor does he apparentl* molest his master+ save on ver* special occasions. Curious+ .atson//ver* curious. But *oung Mr. Bennett is before his time if that is his ring. # had hoped to have a longer chat with *ou before he came.6

There was a >uic( step on the stairs+ a sharp tap at the door and a moment later the new client presented himself. )e was a tall+ handsome *outh about thirt*+ well dressed and elegant+ but with something in his bearing which suggested the sh*ness of the student rather than the self/possession of the man of the world. )e shoo( hands with )olmes+ and then loo(ed with some surprise at me. 6This matter is ver* delicate+ Mr. )olmes+6 he said. 6Consider the relation in which # stand to Professor Presbur* both privatel* and publicl*. # reall* can hardl* =ustif* m*self if # spea( before an* third person.6 6)ave no fear+ Mr. Bennett. -r. .atson is the ver* soul of discretion+ and # can assure *ou that this is a matter in which # am ver* li(el* to need an assistant.6 61s *ou li(e+ Mr. )olmes. ;ou will+ # am sure+ understand m* having some reserves in the matter.6 6;ou will appreciate it+ .atson+ when # tell *ou that this gentleman+ Mr. Trevor Bennett+ is professional assistant to the great scientist+ lives under his roof+ and is engaged to his onl* daughter. Certainl* we must agree that the professor has ever* claim upon his lo*alt* and devotion. But it ma* best be shown b* ta(ing the necessar* steps to clear up this strange m*ster*.6 6# hope so+ Mr. )olmes. That is m* one ob=ect. -oes -r. .atson (now the situation<6 6# have not had time to e plain it.6 6Then perhaps # had better go over the ground again before e plaining some fresh developments.6

6# will do so m*self+6 said )olmes+ 6in order to show that # have the events in their due order. The professor+ .atson+ is a man of 7uropean reputation. )is life has been academic. There has never been a breath of scandal. )e is a widower with one daughter+ 7dith. )e is+ # gather+ a man of ver* virile and positive+ one might almost sa* combative+ character. So the matter stood until a ver* few months ago. 6Then the current of his life was bro(en. )e is si t*/one *ears of age+ but he became engaged to the daughter of Professor Morph*+ his colleague in the chair of comparative anatom*. #t was not+ as # understand+ the reasoned courting of an elderl* man but rather the passionate frenz* of *outh+ for no one could have shown himself a more devoted lover. The lad*+ 1lice Morph*+ was a ver* perfect girl both in mind and bod*+ so that there was ever* e cuse for the professor&s infatuation. :one the less+ it did not meet with full approval in his own famil*.6 6.e thought it rather e cessive+6 said our visitor. 67 actl*. 7 cessive and a little violent and unnatural. Professor Presbur* was rich+ however+ and there was no ob=ection upon the part of the father. The daughter+ however+ had other views+ and there were alread* several candidates for her hand+ who+ if the* were less eligible from a worldl* point of view+ were at least more of an age. The girl seemed to li(e the professor in spite of his eccentricities. #t was onl* age which stood in the wa*. 61bout this time a little m*ster* suddenl* clouded the normal routine of the professor&s life. )e did what he had never done before. )e left home and gave no indication where he was going. )e was awa* a fortnight and returned loo(ing rather travel/worn. )e made no allusion to where he had been+

although he was usuall* the fran(est of men. #t chanced+ however+ that our client here+ Mr. Bennett+ received a letter from a fellowstudent in Prague+ who said that he was glad to have seen Professor Presbur* there+ although he had not been able to tal( to him. 'nl* in this wa* did his own household learn where he had been. 6:ow comes the point. ,rom that time onward a curious change came over the professor. )e became furtive and sl*. Those around him had alwa*s the feeling that he was not the man that the* had (nown+ but that he was under some shadow which had dar(ened his higher >ualities. )is intellect was not affected. )is lectures were as brilliant as ever. But alwa*s there was something new+ something sinister and une pected. )is daughter+ who was devoted to him+ tried again and again to resume the old relations and to penetrate this mas( which her father seemed to have put on. ;ou+ sir+ as # understand+ did the same//but all was in vain. 1nd now+ Mr. Bennett+ tell in *our own words the incident of the letters.6 6;ou must understand+ -r. .atson+ that the professor had no secrets from me. #f # were his son or his *ounger brother # could not have more completel* en=o*ed his confidence. 1s his secretar* # handled ever* paper which came to him+ and # opened and subdivided his letters. Shortl* after his return all this was changed. )e told me that certain letters might come to him from %ondon which would be mar(ed b* a cross under the stamp. These were to be set aside for his own e*es onl*. # ma* sa* that several of these did pass through m* hands+ that the* had the 7. C. mar(+ and were in an illiterate handwriting. #f he answered them at all the answers did not pass through m* hands nor into the letterbas(et in which our correspondence was collected.6

61nd the bo +6 said )olmes. 61h+ *es+ the bo . The professor brought bac( a little wooden bo from his travels. #t was the one thing which suggested a Continental tour+ for it was one of those >uaint carved things which one associates with "erman*. This he placed in his instrument cupboard. 'ne da*+ in loo(ing for a canula+ # too( up the bo . To m* surprise he was ver* angr*+ and reproved me in words which were >uite savage for m* curiosit*. #t was the first time such a thing had happened+ and # was deepl* hurt. # endeavoured to e plain that it was a mere accident that # had touched the bo + but all the evening # was conscious that he loo(ed at me harshl* and that the incident was ran(ling in his mind.6 Mr. Bennett drew a little diar* boo( from his poc(et. 6That was on Bul* Ad+6 said he. 6;ou are certainl* an admirable witness+6 said )olmes. 6# ma* need some of these dates which *ou have noted.6 6# learned method among other things from m* great teacher. ,rom the time that # observed abnormalit* in his behaviour # felt that it was m* dut* to stud* his case. Thus # have it here that it was on that ver* da*+ Bul* Ad+ that $o* attac(ed the professor as he came from his stud* into the hall. 1gain+ on Bul* 22th+ there was a scene of the same sort+ and then # have a note of *et another upon Bul* ADth. 1fter that we had to banish $o* to the stables. )e was a dear+ affectionate animal//but # fear # wear* *ou.6 Mr. Bennett spo(e in a tone of reproach+ for it was ver* clear that )olmes was not listening. )is face was rigid and his e*es gazed abstractedl* at the ceiling. .ith an effort he recovered himself. 6Singular8 Most singular86 he murmured. 6These details were

new to me+ Mr. Bennett. # thin( we have now fairl* gone over the old ground+ have we not< But *ou spo(e of some fresh developments.6 The pleasant+ open face of our visitor clouded over+ shadowed b* some grim remembrance. 6.hat # spea( of occurred the night before last+6 said he. 6# was l*ing awa(e about two in the morning+ when # was aware of a dull muffled sound coming from the passage. # opened m* door and peeped out. # should e plain that the professor sleeps at the end of the passage//6 6The date being<6 as(ed )olmes. 'ur visitor was clearl* anno*ed at so irrelevant an interruption. 6# have said+ sir+ that it was the night before last//that is+ September Eth.6 )olmes nodded and smiled. 6Pra* continue+6 said he. 6)e sleeps at the end of the passage and would have to pass m* door in order to reach the staircase. #t was a reall* terrif*ing e perience+ Mr. )olmes. # thin( that # am as strong/ nerved as m* neighbours+ but # was sha(en b* what # saw. The passage was dar( save that one window halfwa* along it threw a patch of light. # could see that something was coming along the passage+ something dar( and crouching. Then suddenl* it emerged into the light+ and # saw that it was he. )e was crawling+ Mr. )olmes//crawling8 )e was not >uite on his hands and (nees. # should rather sa* on his hands and feet+ with his face sun( between his hands. ;et he seemed to move with ease. # was so paral*zed b* the sight

that it was not until he had reached m* door that # was able to step forward and as( if # could assist him. )is answer was e traordinar*. )e sprang up+ spat out some atrocious word at me+ and hurried on past me+ and down the staircase. # waited about for an hour+ but he did not come bac(. #t must have been da*light before he regained his room.6 6.ell+ .atson+ what ma(e *ou of that<6 as(ed )olmes with the air of the pathologist who presents a rare specimen. 6%umbago+ possibl*. # have (nown a severe attac( ma(e a man wal( in =ust such a wa*+ and nothing would be more tr*ing to the temper.6 6"ood+ .atson8 ;ou alwa*s (eep us flat/footed on the ground. But we can hardl* accept lumbago+ since he was able to stand erect in a moment.6 6)e was never better in health+6 said Bennett. 6#n fact+ he is stronger than # have (nown him for *ears. But there are the facts+ Mr. )olmes. #t is not a case in which we can consult the police+ and *et we are utterl* at our wit&s end as to what to do+ and we feel in some strange wa* that we are drifting towards disaster. 7dith//Miss Presbur*// feels as # do+ that we cannot wait passivel* an* longer.6 6#t is certainl* a ver* curious and suggestive case. .hat do *ou thin(+ .atson<6 6Spea(ing as a medical man+6 said #+ 6it appears to be a case for an alienist. The old gentleman&s cerebral processes were disturbed b* the love affair. )e made a =ourne* abroad in the hope of brea(ing himself of the passion. )is letters and the bo ma* be connected with some other private transaction// a loan+ perhaps+ or share cenificates+ which are in the bo .6

61nd the wolfhound no doubt disapproved of the financial bargain. :o+ no+ .atson+ there is more in it than this. :ow+ # can onl* suggest//6 .hat Sherloc( )olmes was about to suggest will never be (nown+ for at this moment the door opened and a *oung lad* was shown into the room. 1s she appeared Mr. Bennett sprang up with a cr* and ran forward with his hands out to meet those which she had herself outstretched. 67dith+ dear8 :othing the matter+ # hope<6 6# felt # must follow *ou. 'h+ Bac(+ # have been so dreadfull* frightened8 #t is awful to be there alone.6 6Mr. )olmes+ this is the *oung lad* # spo(e of. This is m* fiancee.6 6.e were graduall* coming to that conclusion+ were we not+ .atson<6 )olmes answered with a smile. 6# ta(e it+ Miss Presbur*+ that there is some fresh development in the case+ and that *ou thought we should (now<6 'ur new visitor+ a bright+ handsome girl of a conventional 7nglish t*pe+ smiled bac( at )olmes as she seated herself beside Mr. Bennett. 6.hen # found Mr. Bennett had left his hotel # thought # should probabl* find him here. 'f course+ he had told me that he would consult *ou. But+ oh+ Mr. )olmes+ can *ou do nothing for m* poor father<6 6# have hopes+ Miss Presbur*+ but the case is still obscure. Perhaps what *ou have to sa* ma* throw some fresh light upon it.6

6#t was last night+ Mr. )olmes. )e had been ver* strange all da*. # am sure that there are times when he has no recollection of what he does. )e lives as in a strange dream. ;esterda* was such a da*. #t was not m* father with whom # lived. )is outward shell was there+ but it was not reall* he.6 6Tell me what happened.6 6# was awa(ened in the night b* the dog bar(ing most furiousl*. Poor $o*+ he is chained now near the stable. # ma* sa* that # alwa*s sleep with m* door loc(ed0 for+ as Bac(//as Mr. Bennett//will tell *ou+ we all have a feeling of impending danger. M* room is on the second floor. #t happened that the blind was up in m* window+ and there was bright moonlight outside. 1s # la* with m* e*es fi ed upon the s>uare of light+ listening to the frenzied bar(ings of the dog+ # was amazed to see m* father&s face loo(ing in at me. Mr. )olmes+ # nearl* died of surprise and horror. There it was pressed against the windowpane+ and one hand seemed to be raised as if to push up the window. #f that window had opened+ # thin( # should have gone mad. #t was no delusion+ Mr. )olmes. -on&t deceive *ourself b* thin(ing so. # dare sa* it was twent* seconds or so that # la* paral*zed and watched the face. Then it vanished+ but # could not//# could not spring out of bed and loo( out after it. # la* cold and shivering till morning. 1t brea(fast he was sharp and fierce in manner+ and made no allusion to the adventure of the night. :either did #+ but # gave an e cuse for coming to town// and here # am.6 )olmes loo(ed thoroughl* surprised at Miss Presbur*&s narrative. 6M* dear *oung lad*+ *ou sa* that *our room is on the second floor. #s there a long ladder in the garden<6

6:o+ Mr. )olmes+ that is the amazing part of it. There is no possible wa* of reaching the window//and *et he was there.6 6The date being September Fth+6 said )olmes. 6That certainl* complicates matters.6 #t was the *oung lad*&s turn to loo( surprised. 6This is the second time that *ou have alluded to the date+ Mr. )olmes+6 said Bennett. 6#s it possible that it has an* bearing upon the case<6 6#t is possible//ver* possible//and *et # have not m* full material at present.6 6Possibl* *ou are thin(ing of the connection between insanit* and phases of the moon<6 6:o+ # assure *ou. #t was >uite a different line of thought. Possibl* *ou can leave *our noteboo( with me+ and # will chec( the dates. :ow # thin(+ .atson+ that our line of action is perfectl* clear. This *oung lad* has informed us//and # have the greatest confidence in her intuition//that her father remembers little or nothing which occurs upon certain dates. .e will therefore call upon him as if he had given us an appointment upon such a date. )e will put it down to his own lac( of memor*. Thus we will open our campaign b* having a good close view of him.6 6That is e cellent+6 said Mr. Bennett. 6# warn *ou+ however+ that the professor is irascible and violent at times.6 )olmes smiled. 6There are reasons wh* we should come at once//ver* cogent reasons if m* theories hold good. To/ morrow+ Mr. Bennett+ will certainl* see us in Camford. There is+ if # remember right+ an inn called the Che>uers where the port used to be above mediocrit* and the linen was above

reproach. # thin(+ .atson+ that our lot for the ne t few da*s might lie in less pleasant places.6 Monda* morning found us on our wa* to the famous universit* town//an eas* effort on the part of )olmes+ who had no roots to pull up+ but one which involved frantic planning and hurr*ing on m* part+ as m* practice was b* this time not inconsiderable. )olmes made no allusion to the case until after we had deposited our suitcases at the ancient hostel of which he had spo(en. 6# thin(+ .atson+ that we can catch the professor =ust before lunch. )e lectures at eleven and should have an interval at home.6 6.hat possible e cuse have we for calling<6 )olmes glanced at his noteboo(. 6There was a period of e citement upon 1ugust A?th. .e will assume that he is a little haz* as to what he does at such times. #f we insist that we are there b* appointment # thin( he will hardl* venture to contradict us. )ave *ou the effronter* necessar* to put it through<6 6.e can but tr*.6 67 cellent+ .atson8 Compound of the Bus* Bee and 7 celsior. .e can but tr*//the motto of the firm. 1 friendl* native will surel* guide us.6 Such a one on the bac( of a smart hansom swept us past a row of ancient colleges and+ finall* turning into a tree/lined drive+ pulled up at the door of a charming house+ girt round with lawns and covered with purple wistaria. Professor Presbur* was certainl* surrounded with ever* sign not onl*

of comfort but of lu ur*. 7ven as we pulled up+ a grizzled head appeared at the front window+ and we were aware of a pair of (een e*es from under shagg* brows which surve*ed us through large horn glasses. 1 moment later we were actuall* in his sanctum+ and the m*sterious scientist+ whose vagaries had brought us from %ondon+ was standing before us. There was certainl* no sign of eccentricit* either in his manner or appearance+ for he was a portl*+ largefeatured man+ grave+ tall+ and froc(/coated+ with the dignit* of bearing which a lecturer needs. )is e*es were his most remar(able feature+ (een+ observant+ and clever to the verge of cunning. )e loo(ed at our cards. 6Pra* sit down+ gentlemen. .hat can # do for *ou<6 Mr. )olmes smiled amiabl*. 6#t was the >uestion which # was about to put to *ou+ Professor.6 6To me+ sir86 6Possibl* there is some mista(e. # heard through a second person that Professor Presbur* of Camford had need of m* services.6 6'h+ indeed86 #t seemed to me that there was a malicious spar(le in the intense gra* e*es. 6;ou heard that+ did *ou< Ma* # as( the name of *our informant<6 6# am sorr*+ Professor+ but the matter was rather confidential. #f # have made a mista(e there is no harm done. # can onl* e press m* regret.6 6:ot at all. # should wish to go further into this matter. #t interests me. )ave *ou an* scrap of writing+ an* letter or

telegram+ to bear out *our assertion<6 6:o+ # have not.6 6# presume that *ou do not go so far as to assert that # summoned *ou<6 6# would rather answer no >uestions+6 said )olmes. 6:o+ # dare sa* not+6 said the professor with asperit*. 6)owever+ that particular one can be answered ver* easil* without *our aid.6 )e wal(ed across the room to the bell. 'ur %ondon friend Mr. Bennett+ answered the call. 6Come in+ Mr. Bennett. These two gentlemen have come from %ondon under the impression that the* have been summoned. ;ou handle all m* correspondence. )ave *ou a note of an*thing going to a person named )olmes<6 6:o+ sir+6 Bennett answered with a flush. 6That is conclusive+6 said the professor+ glaring angril* at m* companion. 6:ow+ sir6//he leaned forward with his two hands upon the table//6 it seems to me that *our position is a ver* >uestionable one.6 )olmes shrugged his shoulders. 6# can onl* repeat that # am sorr* that we have made a needless intrusion.6 6)ardl* enough+ Mr. )olmes86 the old man cried in a high screaming voice+ with e traordinar* malignanc* upon his face. )e got between us and the door as he spo(e+ and he

shoo( his two hands at us with furious passion. 6;ou can hardl* get out of it so easil* as that.6 )is face was convulsed+ and he grinned and gibbered at us in his senseless rage. # am convinced that we should have had to fight our wa* out of the room if Mr. Bennett had not intervened. 6M* dear Professor+6 he cried+ 6consider *our position8 Consider the scandal at the universit*8 Mr. )olmes is a well(nown man. ;ou cannot possibl* treat him with such discourtes*.6 Sul(il* our host//if # ma* call him so//cleared the path to the door. .e were glad to find ourselves outside the house and in the >uiet of the tree/lined drive. )olmes seemed greatl* amused b* the episode. 6'ur learned friend&s nerves are somewhat out of order+6 said he. 6Perhaps our intrusion was a little crude+ and *et we have gained that personal contact which # desired. But+ dear me+ .atson+ he is surel* at our heels. The villain still pursues us.6 There were the sounds of running feet behind+ but it was+ to m* relief+ not the formidable professor but his assistant who appeared round the curve of the drive. )e came panting up to us. 6# am so sorr*+ Mr. )olmes. # wished to apologize.6 6M* dear sir+ there is no need. #t is all in the wa* of professional e perience.6 6# have never seen him in a more dangerous mood. But he grows more sinister. ;ou can understand now wh* his daughter and # are alarmed. 1nd *et his mind is perfectl*

clear.6 6Too clear86 said )olmes. 6That was m* miscalculation. #t is evident that his memor* is much more reliable than # had thought. B* the wa*+ can we+ before we go+ see the window of Miss Presbur*&s room<6 Mr. Bennett pushed his wa* through some shrubs+ and we had a view of the side of the house. 6#t is there. The second on the left.6 6-ear me+ it seems hardl* accessible. 1nd *et *ou will observe that there is a creeper below and a water/pipe above which give some foothold.6 6# could not climb it m*self+6 said Mr. Bennett. 6!er* li(el*. #t would certainl* be a dangerous e ploit for an* normal man.6 6There was one other thing # wish to tell *ou+ Mr. )olmes. # have the address of the man in %ondon to whom the professor writes. )e seems to have written this morning+ and # got it from his blotting/paper. #t is an ignoble position for a trusted secretar*+ but what else can # do<6 )olmes glanced at the paper and put it into his poc(et. 6-ora(//a curious name. Slavonic+ # imagine. .ell+ it is an important lin( in the chain. .e return to %ondon this afternoon+ Mr. Bennett. # see no good purpose to be served b* our remaining. .e cannot arrest the professor because he has done no crime+ nor can we place him under constraint+ for he cannot be proved to be mad. :o action is as *et possible.6

6Then what on earth are we to do<6 61 little patience+ Mr. Bennett. Things will soon develop. 9nless # am mista(en+ ne t Tuesda* ma* mar( a crisis. Certainl* we shall be in Camford on that da*. Meanwhile+ the general position is undeniabl* unpleasant+ and if Miss Presbur* can prolong her visit6 6That is eas*.6 6Then let her sta* till we can assure her that all danger is past. Meanwhile+ let him have his wa* and do not cross him. So long as he is in a good humour all is well.6 6There he is86 said Bennett in a startled whisper. %oo(ing between the branches we saw the tall+ erect figure emerge from the hall door and loo( around him. )e stood leaning forward+ his hands swinging straight before him+ his head turning from side to side. The secretar* with a last wave slipped off among the trees+ and we saw him presentl* re=oin his emplo*er+ the two entering the house together in what seemed to be animated and even e cited conversation. 6# e pect the old gentleman has been putting two and two together+6 said )olmes as we wal(ed hotelward. 6)e struc( me as having a particularl* clear and logical brain from the little # saw of him. 7 plosive+ no doubt+ but then from his point of view he has something to e plode about if detectives are put on his trac( and he suspects his own household of doing it. # rather fanc* that friend Bennett is in for an uncomfortable time.6 )olmes stopped at a post/office and sent off a telegram on our wa*. The answer reached us in the evening+ and he tossed it across to me.

)ave visited the Commercial $oad and seen -ora(. Suave person+ Bohemian+ elderl*. Ceeps large general store. M7$C7$. 6Mercer is since *our time+6 said )olmes. 6)e is m* general utilit* man who loo(s up routine business. #t was important to (now something of the man with whom our professor was so secretl* corresponding. )is nationalit* connects up with the Prague visit.6 6Than( goodness that something connects with something+6 said #. 61t present we seem to be faced b* a long series of ine plicable incidents with no bearing upon each other. ,or e ample+ what possible connection can there be between an angr* wolfhound and a visit to Bohemia+ or either of them with a man crawling down a passage at night< 1s to *our dates+ that is the biggest m*stification of all.6 )olmes smiled and rubbed his hands. .e were+ # ma* sa*+ seated in the old sitting/room of the ancient hotel+ with a bottle of the famous vintage of which )olmes had spo(en on the table between us. 6.ell+ now+ let us ta(e the dates first+6 said he+ his fingertips together and his manner as if he were addressing a class. 6This e cellent *oung man&s diar* shows that there was trouble upon Bul* Ad+ and from then onward it seems to have been at nine/da* intervals+ with+ so far as # remember+ onl* one e ception. Thus the last outbrea( upon ,rida* was on September 3d+ which also falls into the series+ as did 1ugust A?th+ which preceded it. The thing is be*ond coincidence.6 # was forced to agree. 6%et us+ then+ form the provisional theor* that ever* nine

da*s the professor ta(es some strong drug which has a passing but highl* poisonous effect. )is naturall* violent nature is intensified b* it. )e learned to ta(e this drug while he was in Prague+ and is now supplied with it b* a Bohemian intermediar* in %ondon. This all hangs together+ .atson86 6But the dog+ the face at the window+ the creeping man in the passage<6 6.ell+ well+ we have made a beginning. # should not e pect an* fresh developments until ne t Tuesda*. #n the meantime we can onl* (eep in touch with friend Bennett and en=o* the amenities of this charming town.6 #n the morning Mr. Bennett slipped round to bring us the latest report. 1s )olmes had imagined+ times had not been eas* with him. .ithout e actl* accusing him of being responsible for our presence+ the professor had been ver* rough and rude in his speech+ and evidentl* felt some strong grievance. This morning he was >uite himself again+ however+ and had delivered his usual brilliant lecture to a crowded class. 61part from his >ueer fits+6 said Bennett+ 6he has actuall* more energ* and vitalit* than # can ever remember+ nor was his brain ever clearer. But it&s not he//it&s never the man whom we have (nown.6 6# don&t thin( *ou have an*thing to fear now for a wee( at least+6 )olmes answered. 6# am a bus* man+ and -r. .atson has his patients to attend to. %et us agree that we meet here at this hour ne t Tuesda*+ and # shall be surprised if before we leave *ou again we are not able to e plain+ even if we cannot perhaps put an end to+ *our troubles. Meanwhile+ (eep us posted in what occurs.6 # saw nothing of m* friend for the ne t few da*s+ but on the

following Monda* evening # had a short note as(ing me to meet him ne t da* at the train. ,rom what he told me as we travelled up to Camford all was well+ the peace of the professor&s house had been unruffled+ and his own conduct perfectl* normal. This also was the report which was given us b* Mr. Bennett himself when he called upon us that evening at our old >uarters in the Che>uers. 6)e heard from his %ondon correspondent to/da*. There was a letter and there was a small pac(et+ each with the cross under the stamp which warned me not to touch them. There has been nothing else.6 6That ma* prove >uite enough+6 said )olmes griml*. 6:ow+ Mr. Bennett+ we shall+ # thin(+ come to some conclusion tonight. #f m* deductions are correct we should have an opportunit* of bringing matters to a head. #n order to do so it is necessar* to hold the professor under observation. # would suggest+ therefore+ that *ou remain awa(e and on the loo(out. Should *ou hear him pass *our door+ do not interrupt him+ but follow him as discreetl* as *ou can. -r. .atson and # will not be far off. B* the wa*+ where is the (e* of that little bo of which *ou spo(e<6 69pon his watch/chain.6 6# fanc* our researches must lie in that direction. 1t the worst the loc( should not be ver* formidable. )ave *ou an* other able/bodied man on the premises<6 6There is the coachman+ Macphail.6 6.here does he sleep<6 6'ver the stables.6 6.e might possibl* want him. .ell+ we can do no more until

we see how things develop+ "ood/b*e//but # e pect that we shall see *ou before morning.6 #t was nearl* midnight before we too( our station among some bushes immediatel* opposite the hall door of the professor. #t was a fine night+ but chill*+ and we were glad of our warm overcoats. There was a breeze+ and clouds were scudding across the s(*+ obscuring from time to time the half/moon. #t would have been a dismal vigil were it not for the e pectation and e citement which carried us along+ and the assurance of m* comrade that we had probabl* reached the end of the strange se>uence of events which had engaged our attention. 6#f the c*cle of nine da*s holds good then we shall have the professor at his worst to/night+6 said )olmes. 6The fact that these strange s*mptoms began after his visit to Prague+ that he is in secret correspondence with a Bohemian dealer in %ondon+ who presumabl* represents someone in Prague+ and that he received a pac(et from him this ver* da*+ all point in one direction. .hat he ta(es and wh* he ta(es it are still be*ond our (en+ but that it emanates in some wa* from Prague is clear enough. )e ta(es it under definite directions which regulate this ninth/da* s*stem+ which was the first point which attracted m* attention. But his s*mptoms are most remar(able. -id *ou observe his (nuc(les<6 # had to confess that # did not. 6Thic( and horn* in a wa* which is >uite new in m* e perience. 1lwa*s loo( at the hands first+ .atson. Then cuffs+ trouser(nees+ and boots. !er* curious (nuc(les which can onl* be e plained b* the mode of progression observed b*//6 )olmes paused and suddenl* clapped his hand to his forehead. 6'h+ .atson+ .atson+ what a fool # have been8 #t

seems incredible+ and *et it must be true. 1ll points in one direction. )ow could # miss seeing the connection of ideas< Those (nuc(les how could # have passed those (nuc(les< 1nd the dog8 1nd the iv*8 #t&s surel* time that # disappeared into that little farm of m* dreams. %oo( out+ .atson8 )ere he is8 .e shall have the chance of seeing for ourselves.6 The hall door had slowl* opened+ and against the lamplit bac(ground we saw the tall figure of Professor Presbur*. )e was clad in his dressing gown. 1s he stood outlined in the doorwa* he was erect but leaning forward with dangling arms+ as when we saw him last. :ow he stepped forward into the drive+ and an e traordinar* change came over him. )e san( down into a crouching position and moved along upon his hands and feet+ s(ipping ever* now and then as if he were overflowing with energ* and vitalit*. )e moved along the face of the house and then round the corner. 1s he disappeared Bennett slipped through the hall door and softl* followed him. 6Come+ .atson+ come86 cried )olmes+ and we stole as softl* as we could through the bushes until we had gained a spot whence we could see the other side of the house+ which was bathed in the light of the half/moon. The professor was clearl* visible crouching at the foot of the iv*/covered wall. 1s we watched him he suddenl* began with incredible agilit* to ascend it. ,rom branch to branch he sprang+ sure of foot and firm of grasp+ climbing apparentl* in mere =o* at his own powers+ with no definite ob=ect in view. .ith his dressing/ gown flapping on each side of him+ he loo(ed li(e some huge bat glued against the side of his own house+ a great s>uare dar( patch upon the moonlit wall. Presentl* he tired of this amusement+ and+ dropping from branch to branch+ he s>uatted down into the old attitude and moved towards the

stables+ creeping along in the same strange wa* as before. The wolfhound was out now+ bar(ing furiousl*+ and more e cited than ever when it actuall* caught sight of its master. #t was straining on its chain and >uivering with eagerness and rage. The professor s>uatted down ver* deliberatel* =ust out of reach of the hound and began to provo(e it in ever* possible wa*. )e too( handfuls of pebbles from the drive and threw them in the dog&s face+ prodded him with a stic( which he had pic(ed up+ flic(ed his hands about onl* a few inches from the gaping mouth+ and endeavoured in ever* wa* to increase the animal&s fur*+ which was alread* be*ond all control. #n all our adventures # do not (now that # have ever seen a more strange sight than this impassive and still dignified figure crouching frog/li(e upon the ground and goading to a wilder e hibition of passion the maddened hound+ which ramped and raged in front of him+ b* all manner of ingenious and calculated cruelt*. 1nd then in a moment it happened8 #t was not the chain that bro(e+ but it was the collar that slipped+ for it had been made for a thic(/nec(ed :ewfoundland. .e heard the rattle of falling metal+ and the ne t instant dog and man were rolling on the ground together+ the one roaring in rage+ the other screaming in a strange shrill falsetto of terror. #t was a ver* narrow thing for the professor&s life. The savage creature had him fairl* b* the throat+ its fangs had bitten deep+ and he was senseless before we could reach them and drag the two apart. #t might have been a dangerous tas( for us+ but Bennett&s voice and presence brought the great wolflhound instantl* to reason. The uproar had brought the sleep* and astonished coachman from his room above the stables. 6#&m not surprised+6 said he+ sha(ing his head. 6#&ve seen him at it before. # (new the dog would get him sooner or later.6 The hound was secured+ and together we carried the

professor up to his room+ where Bennett+ who had a medical degree+ helped me to dress his torn throat. The sharp teeth had passed dangerousl* near the carotid arter*+ and the haemorrhage was serious. #n half an hour the danger was past+ # had given the patient an in=ection of morphia+ and he had sun( into deep sleep. Then+ and onl* then+ were we able to loo( at each other and to ta(e stoc( of the situation. 6# thin( a first/class surgeon should see him+6 said #. 6,or "od&s sa(e+ no86 cried Bennett. 61t present the scandal is confined to our own household. #t is safe with us. #f it gets be*ond these walls it will never stop. Consider his position at the universit*+ his 7uropean reputation+ the feelings of his daughter.6 6Guite so+6 said )olmes. 6# thin( it ma* be >uite possible to (eep the matter to ourselves+ and also to prevent its recurrence now that we have a free hand. The (e* from the watch/chain+ Mr. Bennett. Macphail will guard the patient and let us (now if there is an* change. %et us see what we can find in the professor&s m*sterious bo .6 There was not much+ but there was enough//an empt* phial+ another nearl* full+ a h*podermic s*ringe+ several letters in a crabbed+ foreign hand. The mar(s on the envelopes showed that the* were those which had disturbed the routine of the secretar*+ and each was dated from the Commercial $oad and signed 61. -ora(.6 The* were mere invoices to sa* that a fresh bottle was being sent to Professor Presbur*+ or receipt to ac(nowledge mone*. There was one other envelope+ however+ in a more educated hand and bearing the 1ustrian stamp with the postmar( of Prague. 6)ere we have our material86 cried )olmes as he tore out the enclosure.

)':'9$7- C'%%71"97 Hit ranI@ Since *our esteemed visit # have thought much of *our case+ and though in *our circumstances there are some special reasons for the treatment+ # would none the less en=oin caution+ as m* results have shown that it is not without danger of a (ind. #t is possible that the serum of anthropoid would have been better. # have+ as # e plained to *ou+ used blac(/faced langur because a specimen was accessible. %angur is+ of course+ a crawler and climber+ while anthropoid wal(s erect and is in all wa*s nearer. # beg *ou to ta(e ever* possible precaution that there be no premature revelation of the process. # have one other client in 7ngland+ and -ora( is m* agent for both. .ee(l* reports will oblige. ;ours with high esteem+). %'.7:ST7#:. %owenstein8 The name brought bac( to me the memor* of some snippet from a newspaper which spo(e of an obscure scientist who was striving in some un(nown wa* for the secret of re=uvenescence and the eli ir of life. %owenstein of Prague8 %owenstein with the wondrous strength/giving serum+ tabooed b* the profession because he refused to reveal its source. #n a few words # said what # remembered. Bennett had ta(en a manual of zoolog* from the shelves. 6&%angur+&6 he read+ 6&the great blac(/faced mon(e* of the )imala*an slopes+ biggest and most human of climbing mon(e*s.& Man* details are added. .ell+ than(s to *ou+ Mr. )olmes+ it is ver* clear that we have traced the evil to its source.6 6The real source+6 said )olmes+ 6lies+ of course+ in that untimel* love affair which gave our impetuous professor the idea that he could onl* gain his wish b* turning himself into a *ounger man. .hen one tries to rise above :ature one is

liable to fall below it. The highest t*pe of man ma* revert to the animal if he leaves the straight road of destin*.6 )e sat musing for a little with the phial in his hand+ loo(ing at the clear li>uid within. 6.hen # have written to this man and told him that # hold him criminall* responsible for the poisons which he circulates+ we will have no more trouble. But it ma* recur. 'thers ma* find a better wa*. There is danger there//a ver* real danger to humanit*. Consider+ .atson+ that the material+ the sensual+ the worldl* would all prolong their worthless lives. The spiritual would not avoid the call to something higher. #t would be the survival of the least fit. .hat sort of cesspool ma* not our poor world become<6 Suddenl* the dreamer disappeared+ and )olmes+ the man of action+ sprang from his chair. 6# thin( there is nothing more to be said+ Mr. Bennett. The various incidents will now fit themselves easil* into the general scheme. The dog+ of course+ was aware of the change far more >uic(l* than *ou. )is smell would insure that. #t was the mon(e*+ not the professor+ whom $o* attac(ed+ =ust as it was the mon(e* who teased $o*. Climbing was a =o* to the creature+ and it was a mere chance+ # ta(e it+ that the pastime brought him to the *oung lad*&s window. There is an earl* train to town+ .atson+ but # thin( we shall =ust have time for a cup of tea at the Che>uers before we catch it.6

AD$"!T%#" &$' TH" AD$"!T%#" S%SS"+ $AMP&#"

F TH"

)olmes had read carefull* a note which the last post had brought him. Then+ with the dr* chuc(le which was his nearest approach to a laugh+ he tossed it over to me. 6,or a mi ture of the modern and the mediaeval+ of the practical and of the wildl* fanciful+ # thin( this is surel* the

limit+6 said he. 6.hat do *ou ma(e of it+ .atson<6 # read as follows@ E?+ '%- B7.$;+:ov. 25th. $e !ampires S#$@ 'ur client+ Mr. $obert ,erguson+ of ,erguson and Muirhead+ tea bro(ers+ of Mincing %ane+ has made some in>uir* from us in a communication of even date concerning vampires. 1s our firm specializes entirel* upon the assessment of machiner* the matter hardl* comes within our purview+ and we have therefore recommended Mr. ,erguson to call upon *ou and la* the matter before *ou. .e have not forgotten *our successful action in the case of Matilda Briggs. .e are+ sir+ ,aithfull* *ours+ M'$$#S':+ M'$$#S':+ 1:- -'--. per 7. B. C. 6Matilda Briggs was not the name of a *oung woman+ .atson+6 said )olmes in a reminiscent voice. 6#t was a ship which is associated with the giant rat of Sumatra+ a stor* for which the world is not *et prepared. But what do we (now about vampires< -oes it come within our purview either< 1n*thing is better than stagnation+ but reall* we seem to have been switched on to a "rimms& fair* tale. Ma(e a long arm+ .atson+ and see what ! has to sa*.6

# leaned bac( and too( down the great inde volume to which he referred. )olmes balanced it on his (nee+ and his e*es moved slowl* and lovingl* over the record of old cases+ mi ed with the accumulated information of a lifetime. 6!o*age of the "loria Scott+6 he read. 6That was a bad business. # have some recollection that *ou made a record of it+ .atson+ though # was unable to congratulate *ou upon the result. !ictor %*nch+ the forger. !enomous lizard or gila. $emar(able case+ that8 !ittoria+ the circus belle. !anderbilt and the ;eggman. !ipers. !igor+ the )ammersmith wonder. )ullo8 )ullo8 "ood old inde . ;ou can&t beat it. %isten to this+ .atson. !ampirism in )ungar*. 1nd again+ !ampires in Trans*lvania.6 )e turned over the pages with eagerness+ but after a short intent perusal he threw down the great boo( with a snarl of disappointment. 6$ubbish+ .atson+ rubbish8 .hat have we to do with wal(ing corpses who can onl* be held in their grave b* sta(es driven through their hearts< #t&s pure lunac*.6 6But surel*+6 said #+ 6the vampire was not necessaril* a dead man< 1 living person might have the habit. # have read+ for e ample+ of the old suc(ing the blood of the *oung in order to retain their *outh.6 6;ou are right+ .atson. #t mentions the legend in one of these references. But are we to give serious attention to such things< This agenc* stands flat/footed upon the ground+ and there it must remain. The world is big enough for us. :o ghosts need appl*. # fear that we cannot ta(e Mr. $obert ,erguson ver* seriousl*. Possibl* this note ma* be from him and ma* throw some light upon what is worr*ing him.6

)e too( up a second letter which had lain unnoticed upon the table while he had been absorbed with the first. This he began to read with a smile of amusement upon his face which graduall* faded awa* into an e pression of intense interest and concentration. .hen he had finished he sat for some little time lost in thought with the letter dangling from his fingers. ,inall*+ with a start+ he aroused himself from his reverie. 6Cheeseman&s+ %amberle*. .here is %amberle*+ .atson<6 6#t is in Susse + South of )orsham.6 6:ot ver* far+ eh< 1nd Cheeseman&s<6 6# (now that countr*+ )olmes. #t is full of old houses which are named after the men who built them centuries ago. ;ou get 'dle*&s and )arve*&s and Carriton&s//the fol( are forgotten but their names live in their houses.6 6Precisel*+6 said )olmes coldl*. #t was one of the peculiarities of his proud+ self/contained nature that though he doc(eted an* fresh information ver* >uietl* and accuratel* in his brain+ he seldom made an* ac(nowledgment to the giver. 6# rather fanc* we shall (now a good deal more about Cheeseman&s+ %amberle*+ before we are through. The letter is+ as # had hoped+ from $obert ,erguson. B* the wa*+ he claims ac>uaintance with *ou.6 6.ith me86 6;ou had better read it.6 )e handed the letter across. #t was headed with the address >uoted.

-71$ M$ )'%M7S Hit saidI@ # have been recommended to *ou b* m* law*ers+ but indeed the matter is so e traordinaril* delicate that it is most difficult to discuss. #t concerns a friend for whom # am acting. This gentleman married some five *ears ago a Peruvian lad*+ the daughter of a Peruvian merchant+ whom he had met in connection with the importation of nitrates. The lad* was ver* beautiful+ but the fact of her foreign birth and of her alien religion alwa*s caused a separation of interests and of feelings between husband and wife+ so that after a time his love ma* have cooled towards her and he ma* have come to regard their union as a mista(e. )e felt there were sides of her character which he could never e plore or understand. This was the more painful as she was as loving a wife as a man could have//to all appearance absolutel* devoted. :ow for the point which # will ma(e more plain when we meet. #ndeed+ this note is merel* to give *ou a general idea of the situation and to ascertain whether *ou would care to interest *ourself in the matter. The lad* began to show some curious traits >uite alien to her ordinaril* sweet and gentle disposition. The gentleman had been married twice and he had one son b* the first wife. This bo* was now fifteen+ a ver* charming and affectionate *outh+ though unhappil* in=ured through an accident in childhood. Twice the wife was caught in the act of assaulting this poor lad in the most unprovo(ed wa*. 'nce she struc( him with a stic( and left a great weal on his arm. This was a small matter+ however+ compared with her conduct to her own child+ a dear bo* =ust under one *ear of age. 'n one occasion about a month ago this child had been left b* its nurse for a few minutes. 1 loud cr* from the bab*+ as of pain+ called the nurse bac(. 1s she ran into the room she saw her emplo*er+ the lad*+ leaning over the bab* and apparentl* biting his nec(. There was a

small wound in the nec( from which a stream of blood had escaped. The nurse was so horrified that she wished to call the husband+ but the lad* implored her not to do so and actuall* gave her five pounds as a price for her silence. :o e planation was ever given+ and for the moment the matter was passed over. #t left+ however+ a terrible impression upon the nurse&s mind+ and from that time she began to watch her mistress closel* and to (eep a closer guard upon the bab*+ whom she tenderl* loved. #t seemed to her that even as she watched the mother+ so the mother watched her+ and that ever* time she was compelled to leave the bab* alone the mother was waiting to get at it. -a* and night the nurse covered the child+ and da* and night the silent+ watchful mother seemed to be l*ing in wait as a wolf waits for a lamb. #t must read most incredible to *ou+ and *et # beg *ou to ta(e it seriousl*+ for a child&s life and a man&s sanit* ma* depend upon it. 1t last there came one dreadful da* when the facts could no longer be concealed from the husband. The nurse&s nerve had given wa*0 she could stand the strain no longer+ and she made a clean breast of it all to the man. To him it seemed as wild a tale as it ma* now seem to *ou. )e (new his wife to be a loving wife+ and+ save for the assaults upon her stepson+ a loving mother. .h*+ then+ should she wound her own dear little bab*< )e told the nurse that she was dreaming+ that her suspicions were those of a lunatic+ and that such libels upon her mistress were not to be tolerated. .hile the* were tal(ing a sudden cr* of pain was heard. :urse and master rushed together to the nurser*. #magine his feelings+ Mr. )olmes+ as he saw his wife rise from a (neeling position beside the cot and saw blood upon the child&s e posed nec( and upon the sheet. .ith a cr* of horror+ he turned his wife&s face to the light and saw blood all round her lips. #t was she//she be*ond all >uestion//who had

drun( the poor bab*&s blood. So the matter stands. She is now confined to her room. There has been no e planation. The husband is half demented. )e (nows+ and # (now+ little of vampirism be*ond the name. .e had thought it was some wild tale of foreign parts. 1nd *et here in the ver* heart of the 7nglish Susse //well+ all this can be discussed with *ou in the morning. .ill *ou see me< .ill *ou use *our great powers in aiding a distracted man< #f so+ (indl* wire to ,erguson+ Cheeseman&s+ %amberle*+ and # will be at *our rooms b* ten o&cloc(. ;ours faithfull*+ $'B7$T ,7$"9S':. P. S. # believe *our friend .atson pla*ed $ugb* for Blac(heath when # was three/>uarter for $ichmond. #t is the onl* personal introduction which # can give. 6'f course # remembered him+6 said # as # laid down the letter. 6Big Bob ,erguson+ the finest three/>uarter $ichmond ever had. )e was alwa*s a good/natured chap. #t&s li(e him to be so concerned over a friend&s case.6 )olmes loo(ed at me thoughtfull* and shoo( his head. 6# never get *our limits+ .atson+6 said he. 6There are une plored possibilities about *ou. Ta(e a wire down+ li(e a good fellow. &.ill e amine *our case with pleasure.&6 6;our case86 6.e must not let him thin( that this agenc* is a home for the wea(/minded. 'f course it is his case. Send him that wire and let the matter rest till morning.6

Promptl* at ten o&cloc( ne t morning ,erguson strode into our room. # had remembered him as a long+ slab/sided man with loose limbs and a fine turn of speed which had carried him round man* an opposing bac(. There is surel* nothing in life more painful than to meet the wrec( of a fine athlete whom one has (nown in his prime. )is great frame had fallen in+ his fla en hair was scant*+ and his shoulders were bowed. # fear that # roused corresponding emotions in him. 6)ullo+ .atson+6 said he+ and his voice was still deep and heart*. 6;ou don&t loo( >uite the man *ou did when # threw *ou over the ropes into the crowd at the 'ld -eer Par(. # e pect # have changed a bit also. But it&s this last da* or two that has aged me. # see b* *our telegram+ Mr. )olmes+ that it is no use m* pretending to be an*one&s deput*.6. 6#t is simpler to deal direct+6 said )olmes. 6'f course it is. But *ou can imagine how difficult it is when *ou are spea(ing of the one woman whom *ou are bound to protect and help. .hat can # do< )ow am # to go to the police with such a stor*< 1nd *et the (iddies have got to be protected. #s it madness+ Mr. )olmes< #s it something in the blood< )ave *ou an* similar case in *our e perience< ,or "od&s sa(e+ give me some advice+ for # am at m* wit&s end.6 6!er* naturall*+ Mr. ,erguson. :ow sit here and pull *ourself together and give me a few clear answers. # can assure *ou that # am ver* far from being at m* wit&s end+ and that # am confident we shall find some solution. ,irst of all+ tell me what steps *ou have ta(en. #s *our wife still near the children<6 6.e had a dreadful scene. She is a most loving woman+ Mr. )olmes. #f ever a woman loved a man with all her heart and

soul+ she loves me. She was cut to the heart that # should have discovered this horrible+ this incredible+ secret. She would not even spea(. She gave no answer to m* reproaches+ save to gaze at me with a sort of wild+ despairing loo( in her e*es. Then she rushed to her room and loc(ed herself in. Since then she has refused to see me. She has a maid who was with her before her marriage+ -olores b* name//a friend rather than a servant. She ta(es her food to her.6 6Then the child is in no immediate danger<6 6Mrs. Mason+ the nurse+ has sworn that she will not leave it night or da*. # can absolutel* trust her. # am more uneas* about poor little Bac(+ for+ as # told *ou in m* note+ he has twice been assaulted b* her.6 6But never wounded<6 6:o+ she struc( him savagel*. #t is the more terrible as he is a poor little inoffensive cripple.6 ,erguson&s gaunt features softened as he spo(e of his bo*. 6;ou would thin( that the dear lad&s condition would soften an*one&s heart. 1 fall in childhood and a twisted spine+ Mr. )olmes. But the dearest+ most loving heart within.6 )olmes had pic(ed up the letter of *esterda* and was reading it over. 6.hat other inmates are there in *our house+ Mr. ,erguson<6 6Two servants who have not been long with us. 'ne stablehand+ Michael+ who sleeps in the house. M* wife+ m*self+ m* bo* Bac(+ bab*+ -olores+ and Mrs. Mason. That is all.6 6# gather that *ou did not (now *our wife well at the time of

*our marriage<6 6# had onl* (nown her a few wee(s.6 6)ow long had this maid -olores been with her<6 6Some *ears.6 6Then *our wife&s character would reall* be better (nown b* -olores than b* *ou<6 6;es+ *ou ma* sa* so.6 )olmes made a note. 6# fanc*+6 said he+ 6that # ma* be of more use at %amberle* than here. #t is eminentl* a case for personal investigation. #f the lad* remains in her room+ our presence could not anno* or inconvenience her. 'f course+ we would sta* at the inn.6 ,erguson gave a gesture of relief. 6#t is what # hoped+ Mr. )olmes. There is an e cellent train at two from !ictoria if *ou could come.6 6'f course we could come. There is a lull at present. # can give *ou m* undivided energies. .atson+ of course+ comes with us. But there are one or two points upon which # wish to be ver* sure before # start. This unhapp* lad*+ as # understand it+ has appeared to assault both the children+ her own bab* and *our little son<6 6That is so.6 6But the assaults ta(e different forms+ do the* not< She has beaten *our son.6

6'nce with a stic( and once ver* savagel* with her hands.6 6-id she give no e planation wh* she struc( him<6 6:one save that she hated him. 1gain and again she said so.6 6.ell+ that is not un(nown among stepmothers. 1 posthumous =ealous*+ we will sa*. #s the lad* =ealous b* nature<6 6;es+ she is ver* =ealous//=ealous with all the strength of her fier* tropical love.6 6But the bo*//he is fifteen+ # understand+ and probabl* ver* developed in mind+ since his bod* has been circumscribed in action. -id he give *ou no e planation of these assaults<6 6:o+ he declared there was no reason.6 6.ere the* good friends at other times<6 6:o+ there was never an* love between them.6 6;et *ou sa* he is affectionate<6 6:ever in the world could there be so devoted a son. M* life is his life. )e is absorbed in what # sa* or do.6 'nce again )olmes made a note. ,or some time he sat lost in thought. 6:o doubt *ou and the bo* were great comrades before this second marriage. ;ou were thrown ver* close together+ were *ou not<6

6!er* much so.6 61nd the bo*+ having so affectionate a nature+ was devoted+ no doubt+ to the memor* of his mother<6 6Most devoted.6 6)e would certainl* seem to be a most interesting lad. There is one other point about these assaults. .ere the strange attac(s upon the bab* and the assaults upon *ow son at the same period<6 6#n the first case it was so. #t was as if some frenz* had seized her+ and she had vented her rage upon both. #n the second case it was onl* Bac( who suffered. Mrs. Mason had no complaint to ma(e about the bab*.6 6That certainl* complicates matters.6 6# don&t >uite follow *ou+ Mr. )olmes.6 6Possibl* not. 'ne forms provisional theories and waits for time or fuller (nowledge to e plode them. 1 bad habit+ Mr. ,erguson+ but human nature is wea(. # fear that *our old friend here has given an e aggerated view of m* scientific methods. )owever+ # will onl* sa* at the present stage that *our problem does not appear to me to be insoluble+ and that *ou ma* e pect to find us at !ictoria at two o&cloc(.6 #t was evening of a dull+ fogg* :ovember da* when+ having left our bags at the Che>uers+ %amberle*+ we drove through the Susse cla* of a long winding lane and finall* reached the isolated and ancient farmhouse in which ,erguson dwelt. #t was a large+ straggling building+ ver* old in the centre+ ver* new at the wings with towering Tudor chimne*s and a lichen/ spotted+ high/pitched roof of )orsham slabs. The doorsteps

were worn into curves+ and the ancient tiles which lined the porch were mar(ed with the rebus of a cheese and a man after the original builder. .ithin+ the ceilings were corrugated with heav* oa(en beams+ and the uneven floors sagged into sharp curves. 1n odour of age and deca* pervaded the whole crumbling building. There was one ver* large central room into which ,erguson led us. )ere+ in a huge old/fashioned fireplace with an iron screen behind it dated 2?4D+ there blazed and spluttered a splendid log fire. The room+ as # gazed round+ was a most singular mi ture of dates and of places. The half/panelled walls ma* well have belonged to the original *eoman farmer of the seventeenth centur*. The* were ornamented+ however+ on the lower part b* a line of well/chosen modern water/colours0 while above+ where *ellow plaster too( the place of oa(+ there was hung a fine collection of South 1merican utensils and weapons+ which had been brought+ no doubt+ b* the Peruvian lad* upstairs. )olmes rose+ with that >uic( curiosit* which sprang from his eager mind+ and e amined them with some care. )e returned with his e*es full of thought. 6)ullo86 he cried. 6)ullo86 1 spaniel had lain in a bas(et in the corner. #t came slowl* forward towards its master+ wal(ing with difficult*. #ts hind legs moved irregularl* and its tail was on the ground. #t lic(ed ,erguson&s hand. 6.hat is it+ Mr. )olmes<6 6The dog. .hat&s the matter with it<6 6That&s what puzzled the vet. 1 sort of paral*sis. Spinal

meningitis+ he thought. But it is passing. )e&ll be all right soon//won&t *ou+ Carlo<6 1 shiver of assent passed through the drooping tail. The dog&s mournful e*es passed from one of us to the other. )e (new that we were discussing his case. 6-id it come on suddenl*<6 6#n a single night.6 6)ow long ago<6 6#t ma* have been four months ago.6 6!er* remar(able. !er* suggestive.6 6.hat do *ou see in it+ Mr. )olmes<6 61 confirmation of what # had alread* thought.6 6,or "od&s sa(e+ what do *ou thin(+ Mr. )olmes< #t ma* be a mere intellectual puzzle to *ou+ but it is life and death to me8 M* wife a would/be murderer//m* child in constant danger8 -on&t pla* with me+ Mr. )olmes. #t is too terribl* serious.6 The big $ugb* three/>uarter was trembling all over. )olmes put his hand soothingl* upon his arm. 6# fear that there is pain for *ou+ Mr. ,erguson+ whatever the solution ma* be+6 said he. 6# would spare *ou all # can. # cannot sa* more for the instant+ but before # leave this house # hope # ma* have something definite.6 6Please "od *ou ma*8 #f *ou will e cuse me+ gentlemen+ # will go up to m* wife&s room and see if there has been an*

change.6 )e was awa* some minutes+ during which )olmes resumed his e amination of the curiosities upon the wall. .hen our host returned it was clear from his downcast face that he had made no progress. )e brought with him a tall+ slim+ brown/ faced girl. 6The tea is read*+ -olores+6 said ,erguson. 6See that *our mistress has ever*thing she can wish.6 6She verra ill+6 cried the girl+ loo(ing with indignant e*es at her master. 6She no as( for food. She verra ill. She need doctor. # frightened sta* alone with her without doctor.6 ,erguson loo(ed at me with a >uestion in his e*es. 6# should be so glad if # could be of use.6 6.ould *our mistress see -r. .atson<6 6# ta(e him. # no as( leave. She needs doctor.6 6Then #&ll come with *ou at once.6 # followed the girl+ who was >uivering with strong emotion+ up the staircase and down an ancient corridor. 1t the end was an iron/clamped and massive door. #t struc( me as # loo(ed at it that if ,erguson tried to force his wa* to his wife he would find it no eas* matter. The girl drew a (e* from her poc(et+ and the heav* oa(en plan(s crea(ed upon their old hinges. # passed in and she swiftl* followed+ fastening the door behind her. 'n the bed a woman was l*ing who was clearl* in a high fever. She was onl* half conscious+ but as # entered she

raised a pair of frightened but beautiful e*es and glared at me in apprehension. Seeing a stranger+ she appeared to be relieved and san( bac( with a sigh upon the pillow. # stepped up to her with a few reassuring words+ and she la* still while # too( her pulse and temperature. Both were high+ and *et m* impression was that the condition was rather that of mental and nervous e citement than of an* actual seizure. 6She lie li(e that one da*+ two da*. # &fraid she die+6 said the girl. The woman turned her flushed and handsome face towards me. 6.here is m* husband<6 6)e is below and would wish to see *ou.6 6# will not see him. # will not see him.6 Then she seemed to wander off into delirium. 61 fiend8 1 fiend8 'h+ what shall # do with this devil<6 6Can # help *ou in an* wa*<6 6:o. :o one can help. #t is finished. 1ll is destro*ed. -o what # will+ all is destro*ed.6 The woman must have some strange delusion. # could not see honest Bob ,erguson in the character of fiend or devil. 6Madame+6 # said+ 6*our husband loves *ou dearl*. )e is deepl* grieved at this happening.6 1gain she turned on me those glorious e*es. 6)e loves me. ;es. But do # not love him< -o # not love him

even to sacrifice m*self rather than brea( his dear heart< That is how # love him. 1nd *et he could thin( of me//he could spea( of me so.6 6)e is full of grief+ but he cannot understand.6 6:o+ he cannot understand. But he should trust.6 6.ill *ou not see him<6 # suggested. 6:o+ no+ # cannot forget those terrible words nor the loo( upon his face. # will not see him. "o now. ;ou can do nothing for me. Tell him onl* one thing. # want m* child. # have a right to m* child. That is the onl* message # can send him.6 She turned her face to the wall and would sa* no more. # returned to the room downstairs+ where ,erguson and )olmes still sat b* the fire. ,erguson listened moodil* to m* account of the interview. 6)ow can # send her the child<6 he said. 6)ow do # (now what strange impulse might come upon her< )ow can # ever forget how she rose from beside it with its blood upon her lips<6 )e shuddered at the recollection. 6The child is safe with Mrs. Mason+ and there he must remain.6 1 smart maid+ the onl* modern thing which we had seen in the house+ had brought in some tea. 1s she was serving it the door opened and a *outh entered the room. )e was a remar(able lad+ pale/faced and fair/haired+ with e citable light blue e*es which blazed into a sudden flame of emotion and =o* as the* rested upon his father. )e rushed forward and threw his arms round his nec( with the abandon of a loving girl. 6'h+ dadd*+6 he cried+ 6# did not (now that *ou were due *et.

# should have been here to meet *ou. 'h+ # am so glad to see *ou86 ,erguson gentl* disengaged himself from the embrace with some little show of embarrassment. 6-ear old chap+6 said he+ patting the fla en head with a ver* tender hand. 6# came earl* because m* friends+ Mr. )olmes and -r. .atson+ have been persuaded to come down and spend an evening with us.6 6#s that Mr. )olmes+ the detective<6 6;es.6 The *outh loo(ed at us with a ver* penetrating and+ as it seemed to me+ unfriendl* gaze. 6.hat about *our other child+ Mr. ,erguson<6 as(ed )olmes. 6Might we ma(e the ac>uaintance of the bab*<6 61s( Mrs. Mason to bring bab* down+6 said ,erguson. The bo* went off with a curious+ shambling gait which told m* surgical e*es that he was suffering from a wea( spine. Presentl* he returned+ and behind him came a tall+ gaunt woman bearing in her arms a ver* beautiful child+ dar(/e*ed+ golden/haired+ a wonderful mi ture of the Sa on and the %atin. ,erguson was evidentl* devoted to it+ for he too( it into his arms and fondled it most tenderl*. 6,anc* an*one having the heart to hurt him+6 he muttered as he glanced down at the small+ angr* red puc(er upon the cherub throat. #t was at this moment that # chanced to glance at )olmes and saw a most singular intentness in his e pression. )is

face was as set as if it had been carved out of old ivor*+ and his e*es+ which had glanced for a moment at father and child+ were now fi ed with eager curiosit* upon something at the other side of the room. ,ollowing his gaze # could onl* guess that he was loo(ing out through the window at the melanchol*+ dripping garden. #t is true that a shutter had half closed outside and obstructed the view+ but none the less it was certainl* at the window that )olmes was fi ing his concentrated attention. Then he smiled+ and his e*es came bac( to the bab*. 'n its chubb* nec( there was this small puc(ered mar(. .ithout spea(ing+ )olmes e amined it with care. ,inall* he shoo( one of the dimpled fists which waved in front of him. 6"ood/b*e+ little man. ;ou have made a strange start in life. :urse+ # should wish to have a word with *ou in private.6 )e too( her aside and spo(e earnestl* for a few minutes. # onl* heard the last words+ which were@ 6;our an iet* will soon+ # hope+ be set at rest.6 The woman+ who seemed to be a sour+ silent (ind of creature+ withdrew with the child. 6.hat is Mrs. Mason li(e<6 as(ed )olmes. 6:ot ver* prepossessing e ternall*+ as *ou can see+ but a heart of gold+ and devoted to the child.6 6-o *ou li(e her+ Bac(<6 )olmes turned suddenl* upon the bo*. )is e pressive mobile face shadowed over+ and he shoo( his head. 6Bac(* has ver* strong li(es and disli(es+6 said ,erguson+ putting his arm round the bo*. 6%uc(il* # am one of his li(es.6 The bo* cooed and nestled his head upon his father&s breast. ,erguson gentl* disengaged him.

6$un awa*+ little Bac(*+6 said he+ and he watched his son with loving e*es until he disappeared. 6:ow+ Mr. )olmes+6 he continued when the bo* was gone+ 6# reall* feel that # have brought *ou on a fool&s errand+ for what can *ou possibl* do save give me *our s*mpath*< #t must be an e ceedingl* delicate and comple affair from *our point of view.6 6#t is certainl* delicate+6 said m* friend with an amused smile+ 6but # have not been struc( up to now with its comple it*. #t has been a case for intellectual deduction+ but when this original intellectual deduction is confirmed point b* point b* >uite a number of independent incidents+ then the sub=ective becomes ob=ective and we can sa* confidentl* that we have reached our goal. # had+ in fact+ reached it before we left Ba(er Street+ and the rest has merel* been observation and confirmation.6 ,erguson put his big hand to his furrowed forehead. 6,or heaven&s sa(e+ )olmes+6 he said hoarsel*0 6if *ou can see the truth in this matter+ do not (eep me in suspense. )ow do # stand< .hat shall # do< # care nothing as to how *ou have found *our facts so long as *ou have reall* got them.6 6Certainl* # owe *ou an e planation+ and *ou shall have it. But *ou will permit me to handle the matter in m* own wa*< #s the lad* capable of seeing us+ .atson<6 6She is ill+ but she is >uite rational.6 6!er* good. #t is onl* in her presence that we can clear the matter up. %et us go up to her.6 6She will not see me+6 cried ,erguson.

6'h+ *es+ she will+6 said )olmes. )e scribbled a few lines upon a sheet of paper. 6;ou at least have the entree+ .atson. .ill *ou have the goodness to give the lad* this note<6 # ascended again and handed the note to -olores+ who cautiousl* opened the door. 1 minute later # heard a cr* from within+ a cr* in which =o* and surprise seemed to be blended. -olores loo(ed out. 6She will see them. She will leesten+6 said she. 1t m* summons ,erguson and )olmes came up. 1s we entered the room ,erguson too( a step or two towards his wife+ who had raised herself in the bed+ but she held out her hand to repulse him. )e san( into an armchair+ while )olmes seated himself beside him+ after bowing to the lad*+ who loo(ed at him with wide/e*ed amazement. 6# thin( we can dispense with -olores+6 said )olmes. 6'h+ ver* well+ madame+ if *ou would rather she sta*ed # can see no ob=ection. :ow+ Mr. ,erguson+ # am a bus* man with man* calls+ and m* methods have to be short and direct. The swiftest surger* is the least painful. %et me first sa* what will ease *our mind. ;our wife is a ver* good+ a ver* loving+ and a ver* ill/used woman.6 ,erguson sat up with a cr* of =o*. 6Prove that+ Mr. )olmes+ and # am *our debtor forever.6 6# will do so+ but in doing so # must wound *ou deepl* in another direction.6 6# care nothing so long as *ou clear m* wife. 7ver*thing on earth is insignificant compared to that.6

6%et me tell *ou+ then+ the train of reasoning which passed through m* mind in Ba(er Street. The idea of a vampire was to me absurd. Such things do not happen in criminal practice in 7ngland. 1nd *et *our observation was precise. ;ou had seen the lad* rise from beside the child&s cot with the blood upon her lips.6 6# did.6 6-id it not occur to *ou that a bleeding wound ma* be suc(ed for some other purpose than to draw the blood from it< .as there not a >ueen in 7nglish histor* who suc(ed such a wound to draw poison from it<6 6Poison86 61 South 1merican household. M* instinct felt the presence of those weapons upon the wall before m* e*es ever saw them. #t might have been other poison+ but that was what occurred to me. .hen # saw that little empt* >uiver beside the small birdbow+ it was =ust what # e pected to see. #f the child were pric(ed with one of those arrows dipped in curare or some other devilish drug+ it would mean death if the venom were not suc(ed out. 61nd the dog8 #f one were to use such a poison+ would one not tr* it first in order to see that it had not lost its power< # did not foresee the dog+ but at least # understand him and he fitted into m* reconstruction. 6:ow do *ou understand< ;our wife feared such an attac(. She saw it made and saved the child&s life+ and *et she shran( from telling *ou all the truth+ for she (new how *ou loved the bo* and feared lest it brea( *our heart.6 6Bac(*86

6# watched him as *ou fondled the child =ust now. )is face was clearl* reflected in the glass of the window where the shutter formed a bac(ground. # saw such =ealous*+ such cruel hatred+ as # have seldom seen in a human face.6 6M* Bac(*86 6;ou have to face it+ Mr. ,erguson. #t is the more painful because it is a distorted love+ a maniacal e aggerated love for *ou+ and possibl* for his dead mother+ which has prompted his action. )is ver* soul is consumed with hatred for this splendid child+ whose health and beaut* are a contrast to his own wea(ness.6 6"ood "od8 #t is incredible86 6)ave # spo(en the truth+ madame<6 The lad* was sobbing+ with her face buried in the pillows. :ow she turned to her husband. 6)ow could # tell *ou+ Bob< # felt the blow it would be to *ou. #t was better that # should wait and that it should come from some other lips than mine. .hen this gentleman+ who seems to have powers of magic+ wrote that he (new all+ # was glad.6 6# thin( a *ear at sea would be m* prescription for Master Bac(*+6 said )olmes+ rising from his chair. 6'nl* one thing is still clouded+ madame. .e can >uite understand *our attac(s upon Master Bac(*. There is a limit to a mother&s patience. But how did *ou dare to leave the child these last two da*s<6 6# had told Mrs. Mason. She (new.6

67 actl*. So # imagined.6 ,erguson was standing b* the bed+ cho(ing+ his hands outstretched and >uivering. 6This+ # fanc*+ is the time for our e it+ .atson+6 said )olmes in a whisper. 6#f *ou will ta(e one elbow of the too faithful -olores+ # will ta(e the other. There+ now+6 he added as he closed the door behind him+ 6# thin( we ma* leave them to settle the rest among themselves.6 # have onl* one further note of this case. #t is the letter which )olmes wrote in final answer to that with which the narrative begins. #t ran thus@ B1C7$ ST$77T+:ov. A2st.$e !ampires S#$@ $eferring to *our letter of the 25th+ # beg to state that # have loo(ed into the in>uir* of *our client+ Mr. $obert ,erguson+ of ,erguson and Muirhead+ tea bro(ers+ of Mincing %ane+ and that the matter has been brought to a satisfactor* conclusion. .ith than(s for *our recommendation+ # am+ sir+ ,aithfull* *ours+ S)7$%'CC )'%M7S.

AD$"!T%#" $' TH" AD$"!T%#" TH#"" GA##&D")S

F TH"

#t ma* have been a comed*+ or it ma* have been a traged*.

#t cost one man his reason+ it cost me a blood/letting+ and it cost *et another man the penalties of the law. ;et there was certainl* an element of comed*. .ell+ *ou shall =udge for *ourselves. # remember the date ver* well+ for it was in the same month that )olmes refused a (nighthood for services which ma* perhaps some da* be described. # onl* refer to the matter in passing+ for in m* position of partner and confidant # am obliged to be particularl* careful to avoid an* indiscretion. # repeat+ however+ that this enables me to fi the date+ which was the latter end of Bune+ 25DA+ shortl* after the conclusion of the South 1frican .ar. )olmes had spent several da*s in bed+ as was his habit from time to time+ but he emerged that morning with a long foolscap document in his hand and a twin(le of amusement in his austere gra* e*es. 6There is a chance for *ou to ma(e some mone*. friend .atson+6 said he. 6)ave *ou ever heard the name of "arrideb<6 # admitted that # had not. 6.ell+ if *ou can la* *our hand upon a "arrideb+ there&s mone* in it.6 6.h*<6 61h+ that&s a long stor*//rather a whimsical one+ too. # don&t thin( in all our e plorations of human comple ities we have ever come upon an*thing more singular. The fellow will be here presentl* for cross/e amination+ so # won&t open the matter up till he comes. But+ meanwhile+ that&s the name we want.6 The telephone director* la* on the table beside me+ and #

turned over the pages in a rather hopeless >uest. But to m* amazement there was this strange name in its due place. # gave a cr* of triumph. 6)ere *ou are+ )olmes8 )ere it is86 )olmes too( the boo( from m* hand. 6&"arrideb+ :.+&6 he read+ 6&23? %ittle $*der Street+ ..& Sorr* to disappoint *ou+ m* dear .atson+ but this is the man himself. That is the address upon his letter. .e want another to match him.6 Mrs. )udson had come in with a card upon a tra*. # too( it up and glanced at it. 6.h*+ here it is86 # cried in amazement. 6This is a different initial. Bohn "arrideb+ Counsellor at %aw+ Moorville+ Cansas+ 9.S.1.6 )olmes smiled as he loo(ed at the card. 6# am afraid *ou must ma(e *et another effort+ .atson+6 said he. 6This gentleman is also in the plot alread*+ though # certainl* did not e pect to see him this morning. )owever+ he is in a position to tell us a good deal which # want to (now.6 1 moment later he was in the room. Mr. Bohn "arrideb+ Counsellor at %aw+ was a short+ powerful man with the round+ fresh+ clean/shaven face characteristic of so man* 1merican men of affairs. The general effect was chubb* and rather childli(e+ so that one received the impression of >uite a *oung man with a broad set smile upon his face. )is e*es+ however+ were arresting. Seldom in an* human head have # seen a pair which bespo(e a more intense inward life+ so bright were the*+ so alert+ so responsive to ever* change of thought. )is accent was 1merican+ but was not

accompanied b* an* eccentricit* of speech. 6Mr. )olmes<6 he as(ed+ glancing from one to the other. 61h+ *es8 ;our pictures are not unli(e *ou+ sir+ if # ma* sa* so. # believe *ou have had a letter from m* namesa(e+ Mr. :athan "arrideb+ have *ou not<6 6Pra* sit down+6 said Sherloc( )olmes. 6.e shall+ # fanc*+ have a good deal to discuss.6 )e too( up his sheets of foolscap. 6;ou are+ of course+ the Mr. Bohn "arrideb mentioned in this document. But surel* *ou have been in 7ngland some time<6 6.h* do *ou sa* that+ Mr. )olmes<6 # seemed to read sudden suspicion in those e pressive e*es. 6;our whole outfit is 7nglish.6 Mr. "arrideb forced a laugh. 6#&ve read of *our tric(s+ Mr. )olmes+ but # never thought # would be the sub=ect of them. .here do *ou read that<6 6The shoulder cut of *our coat+ the toes of *our boots//could an*one doubt it<6 6.ell+ well+ # had no idea # was so obvious a Britisher. But business brought me over here some time ago+ and so+ as *ou sa*+ m* outfit is nearl* all %ondon. )owever+ # guess *our time is of value+ and we did not meet to tal( about the cut of m* soc(s. .hat about getting down to that paper *ou hold in *our hand<6 )olmes had in some wa* ruffled our visitor+ whose chubb* face had assumed a far less amiable e pression. 6Patience8 Patience+ Mr. "arrideb86 said m* friend in a

soothing voice. 6-r. .atson would tell *ou that these little digressions of mine sometimes prove in the end to have some bearing on the matter. But wh* did Mr. :athan "arrideb not come with *ou<6 6.h* did he ever drag *ou into it at all<6 as(ed our visitor with a sudden outflame of anger. 6.hat in thunder had *ou to do with it< )ere was a bit of professional business between two gentlemen+ and one of them must needs call in a detective8 # saw him this morning+ and he told me this fool/ tric( he had pla*ed me+ and that&s wh* # am here. But # feel bad about it+ all the same.6 6There was no reflection upon *ou+ Mr. "arrideb. #t was simpl* zeal upon his part to gain *our end//an end which is+ # understand+ e>uall* vital for both of *ou. )e (new that # had means of getting information+ and+ therefore+ it was ver* natural that he should appl* to me.6 'ur visitor&s angr* face graduall* cleared. 6.ell+ that puts it different+6 said he. 6.hen # went to see him this morning and he told me he had sent to a detective+ # =ust as(ed for *our address and came right awa*. # don&t want police butting into a private matter. But if *ou are content =ust to help us find the man+ there can be no harm in that.6 6.ell+ that is =ust how it stands+6 said )olmes. 61nd now+ sir+ since *ou are here+ we had best have a clear account from *our own lips. M* friend here (nows nothing of the details.6 Mr. "arrideb surve*ed me with not too friendl* a gaze. 6:eed he (now<6 he as(ed. 6.e usuall* wor( together.6

6.ell+ there&s no reason it should be (ept a secret. #&ll give *ou the facts as short as # can ma(e them. #f *ou came from Cansas # would not need to e plain to *ou who 1le ander )amilton "arrideb was. )e made his mone* in real estate+ and afterwards in the wheat pit at Chicago+ but he spent it in bu*ing up as much land as would ma(e one of *our counties+ l*ing along the 1r(ansas $iver+ west of ,ort -odge. #t&s grazing/land and lumber/land and arable/land and mineralized/land+ and =ust ever* sort of land that brings dollars to the man that owns it. 6)e had no (ith nor (in//or+ if he had+ # never heard of it. But he too( a (ind of pride in the >ueerness of his name. That was what brought us together. # was in the law at Tope(a+ and one da* # had a visit from the old man+ and he was tic(led to death to meet another man with his own name. #t was his pet fad+ and he was dead set to find out if there were an* more "arridebs in the world. &,ind me another8& said he. # told him # was a bus* man and could not spend m* life hi(ing round the world in search of "arridebs. &:one the less+& said he+ &that is =ust what *ou will do if things pan out as # planned them.& # thought he was =o(ing+ but there was a powerful lot of meaning in the words+ as # was soon to discover. 6,or he died within a *ear of sa*ing them+ and he left a will behind him. #t was the >ueerest will that has ever been filed in the State of Cansas. )is propert* was divided into three parts and # was to have one on condition that # found two "arridebs who would share the remainder. #t&s five million dollars for each if it is a cent+ but we can&t la* a finger on it until we all three stand in a row. 6#t was so big a chance that # =ust let m* legal practice slide and # set forth loo(ing for "arridebs. There is not one in the

9nited States. # went through it+ sir+ with a fine/toothed comb and never a "arrideb could # catch. Then # tried the old countr*. Sure enough there was the name in the %ondon telephone director*. # went after him two da*s ago and e plained the whole matter to him. But he is a lone man+ li(e m*self+ with some women relations+ but no men. #t sa*s three adult men in the will. So *ou see we still have a vacanc*+ and if *ou can help to fill it we will be ver* read* to pa* *our charges.6 6.ell+ .atson+6 said )olmes with a smile+ 6l said it was rather whimsical+ did # not< # should have thought+ sir+ that *our obvious wa* was to advertise in the agon* columns of the papers.6 6# have done that+ Mr. )olmes. :o replies.6 6-ear me8 .ell+ it is certainl* a most curious little problem. # ma* ta(e a glance at it in m* leisure. B* the wa*+ it is curious that *ou should have come from Tope(a. # used to have a correspondent//he is dead now//old -r. %*sander Starr+ who was ma*or in 235D.6 6"ood old -r. Starr86 said our visitor. 6)is name is still honoured. .ell+ Mr. )olmes+ # suppose all we can do is to report to *ou and let *ou (now how we progress. # rec(on *ou will hear within a da* or two.6 .ith this assurance our 1merican bowed and departed. )olmes had lit his pipe+ and he sat for some time with a curious smile upon his face. 6.ell<6 # as(ed at last. 6# am wondering+ .atson//=ust wondering86

61t what<6 )olmes too( his pipe from his lips. 6# was wondering+ .atson+ what on earth could be the ob=ect of this man in telling us such a rigmarole of lies. # nearl* as(ed him so//for there are times when a brutal frontal attac( is the best polic*//but # =udged it better to let him thin( he had fooled us. )ere is a man with an 7nglish coat fra*ed at the elbow and trousers bagged at the (nee with a *ear&s wear+ and *et b* this document and b* his own account he is a provincial 1merican latel* landed in %ondon. There have been no advertisements in the agon* columns. ;ou (now that # miss nothing there. The* are m* favourite covert for putting up a bird+ and # would never have overloo(ed such a coc( pheasant as that. # never (new a -r. %*sander Starr+ of Tope(a. Touch him where *ou would he was false. # thin( the fellow is reall* an 1merican+ but he has worn his accent smooth with *ears of %ondon. .hat is his game+ then+ and what motive lies behind this preposterous search for "arridebs< #t&s worth our attention+ for+ granting that the man is a rascal+ he is certainl* a comple and ingenious one. .e must now find out if our other correspondent is a fraud also. Bust ring him up+ .atson.6 # did so+ and heard a thin+ >uavering voice at the other end of the line. 6;es+ *es+ # am Mr. :athan "arrideb. #s Mr. )olmes there< # should ver* much li(e to have a word with Mr. )olmes.6 M* friend too( the instrument and # heard the usual s*ncopated dialogue. 6;es+ he has been here. # understand that *ou don&t (now

him.... )ow long< ... 'nl* two da*s8 ... ;es+ *es+ of course+ it is a most captivating prospect. .ill *ou be at home this evening< # suppose *our namesa(e will not be there< . . . !er* good+ we will come then+ for # would rather have a chat without him.... -r. .atson will come with me.... # understand from *our note that *ou did not go out often.... .ell+ we shall be round about si . ;ou need not mention it to the 1merican law*er.... !er* good. "ood/b*e86 #t was twilight of a lovel* spring evening+ and even %ittle $*der Street+ one of the smaller offshoots from the 7dgware $oad+ within a stone/cast of old T*burn Tree of evil memor*+ loo(ed golden and wonderful in the slanting ra*s of the setting sun. The particular house to which we were directed was a large+ old/fashioned+ 7arl* "eorgian edifice+ with a flat bric( face bro(en onl* b* two deep ba* windows on the ground floor. #t was on this ground floor that our client lived+ and+ indeed+ the low windows proved to be the front of the huge room in which he spent his wa(ing hours. )olmes pointed as we passed to the small brass plate which bore the curious name. 69p some *ears+ .atson+6 he remar(ed+ indicating its discoloured surface. 6#t&s his real name+ an*how+ and that is something to note.6 The house had a common stair+ and there were a number of names painted in the hall+ some indicating offices and some private chambers. #t was not a collection of residential flats+ but rather the abode of Bohemian bachelors. 'ur client opened the door for us himself and apologized b* sa*ing that the woman in charge left at four o&cloc(. Mr. :athan "arrideb proved to be a ver* tall+ loose=ointed+ round/bac(ed person+ gaunt and bald+ some si t*/odd *ears of age. )e had a cadaverous face+ with the dull dead s(in of a man to

whom e ercise was un(nown. %arge round spectacles and a small pro=ecting goat&s beard combined with his stooping attitude to give him an e pression of peering curiosit*. The general effect+ however+ was amiable+ though eccentric. The room was as curious as its occupant. #t loo(ed li(e a small museum. #t was both broad and deep+ with cupboards and cabinets all round+ crowded with specimens+ geological and anatomical. Cases of butterflies and moths flan(ed each side of the entrance. 1 large table in the centre was littered with all sorts of debris+ while the tall brass tube of a powerful microscope bristled up among them. 1s # glanced round # was surprised at the universalit* of the man&s interests. )ere was a case of ancient coins. There was a cabinet of flint instruments. Behind his central table was a large cupboard of fossil bones. 1bove was a line of plaster s(ulls with such names as 6:eanderthal+6 6)eidelberg+6 6Cro/Magnon6 printed beneath them. #t was clear that he was a student of man* sub=ects. 1s he stood in front of us now+ he held a piece of chamois leather in his right hand with which he was polishing a coin. 6S*racusan//of the best period+6 he e plained+ holding it up. 6The* degenerated greatl* towards the end. 1t their best # hold them supreme+ though some prefer the 1le andrian school. ;ou will find a chair here+ Mr. )olmes. Pra* allow me to clear these bones. 1nd *ou+ sir//ah+ *es+ -r. .atson//if *ou would have the goodness to put the Bapanese vase to one side. ;ou see round me m* little interests in life. M* doctor lectures me about never going out+ but wh* should # go out when # have so much to hold me here< # can assure *ou that the ade>uate cataloguing of one of those cabinets would ta(e me three good months.6 )olmes loo(ed round him with curiosit*.

6But do *ou tell me that *ou never go out<6 he said. 6:ow and again # drive down to Sotheb*&s or Christie&s. 'therwise # ver* seldom leave m* room. # am not too strong+ and m* researches are ver* absorbing. But *ou can imagine+ Mr. )olmes+ what a terrific shoc( //pleasant but terrific//it was for me when # heard of this unparalleled good fortune. #t onl* needs one more "arrideb to complete the matter+ and surel* we can find one. # had a brother+ but he is dead+ and female relatives are dis>ualified. But there must surel* be others in the world. # had heard that *ou handled strange cases+ and that was wh* # sent to *ou. 'f course+ this 1merican gentleman is >uite right+ and # should have ta(en his advice first+ but # acted for the best.6 6# thin( *ou acted ver* wisel* indeed+6 said )olmes. 6But are *ou reall* an ious to ac>uire an estate in 1merica<6 6Certainl* not+ sir. :othing would induce me to leave m* collection. But this gentleman has assured me that he will bu* me out as soon as we have established our claim. ,ive million dollars was the sum named. There are a dozen specimens in the mar(et at the present moment which fill gaps in m* collection+ and which # am unable to purchase for want of a few hundred pounds. Bust thin( what # could do with five million dollars. .h*+ # have the nucleus of a national collection. # shall be the )ans Sloane of m* age.6 )is e*es gleamed behind his great spectacles. #t was ver* clear that no pains would be spared b* Mr. :athan "arrideb in finding a namesa(e. 6# merel* called to ma(e *our ac>uaintance+ and there is no reason wh* # should interrupt *our studies+6 said )olmes. 6# prefer to establish personal touch with those with whom # do

business. There are few >uestions # need as(+ for # have *our ver* clear narrative in m* poc(et+ and # filled up the blan(s when this 1merican gentleman called. # understand that up to this wee( *ou were unaware of his e istence.6 6That is so. )e called last Tuesda*.6 6-id he tell *ou of our interview to/da*<6 6;es+ he came straight bac( to me. )e had been ver* angr*.6 6.h* should he be angr*<6 6)e seemed to thin( it was some reflection on his honour. But he was >uite cheerful again when he returned.6 6-id he suggest an* course of action<6 6:o+ sir+ he did not.6 6)as he had+ or as(ed for+ an* mone* from *ou<6 6:o+ sir+ never86 6;ou see no possible ob=ect he has in view<6 6:one+ e cept what he states.6 6-id *ou tell him of our telephone appointment<6 6;es+ sir+ # did.6 )olmes was lost in thought. # could see that he was puzzled. 6)ave *ou an* articles of great value in *our collection<6

6:o+ sir. # am not a rich man. #t is a good collection+ but not a ver* valuable one.6 6;ou have no fear of burglars<6 6:ot the least.6 6)ow long have *ou been in these rooms<6 6:earl* five *ears.6 )olmes&s cross/e amination was interrupted b* an imperative (noc(ing at the door. :o sooner had our client unlatched it than the 1merican law*er burst e citedl* into the room. 6)ere *ou are86 he cried+ waving a paper over his head. 6# thought # should be in time to get *ou. Mr. :athan "arrideb+ m* congratulations8 ;ou are a rich man+ sir. 'ur business is happil* finished and all is well. 1s to *ou+ Mr. )olmes+ we can onl* sa* we are sorr* if we have given *ou an* useless trouble.6 )e handed over the paper to our client+ who stood staring at a mar(ed advertisement. )olmes and # leaned forward and read it over his shoulder. This is how it ran@ )'.1$"1$$#-7BC':ST$9CT'$ 1"$#C9%T9$1% M1C)#:7$; ',

Binders+ reapers+ steam and hand plows+ drills+ harrows+ farmer&s carts+ buc(boards+ and all other appliances. 7stimates for 1rtesian .ells. 1ppl* "rosvenor Buildings+ 1ston

6"lorious86 gasped our host. 6That ma(es our third man.6 6# had opened up in>uiries in Birmingham+6 said the 1merican+ 6and m* agent there has sent me this advertisement from a local paper. .e must hustle and put the thing through. # have written to this man and told him that *ou will see him in his office to/morrow afternoon at four o&cloc(.6 6;ou want me to see him<6 6.hat do *ou sa*+ Mr. )olmes< -on&t *ou thin( it would be wiser< )ere am #+ a wandering 1merican with a wonderful tale. .h* should he believe what # tell him< But *ou are a Britisher with solid references+ and he is bound to ta(e notice of what *ou sa*. # would go with *ou if *ou wished+ but # have a ver* bus* da* to/morrow+ and # could alwa*s follow *ou if *ou are in an* trouble.6 6.ell+ # have not made such a =ourne* for *ears.6 6#t is nothing+ Mr. "arrideb. # have figured out our connections. ;ou leave at twelve and should be there soon after two. Then *ou can be bac( the same night. 1ll *ou have to do is to see this man+ e plain the matter+ and get an affidavit of his e istence. B* the %ord86 he added hotl*+ 6considering #&ve come all the wa* from the centre of 1merica+ it is surel* little enough if *ou go a hundred miles in order to put this matter through.6 6Guite so+6 said )olmes. 6# thin( what this gentleman sa*s is ver* true.6 Mr. :athan "arrideb shrugged his shoulders with a disconsolate air. 6.ell+ if *ou insist # shall go+6 said he. 6#t is certainl* hard for me to refuse *ou an*thing+ considering the

glor* of hope that *ou have brought into m* life.6 6Then that is agreed+6 said )olmes+ 6and no doubt *ou will let me have a report as soon as *ou can.6 6#&ll see to that+6 said the 1merican. 6.ell+6 he added loo(ing at his watch+ 6#&ll have to get on. #&ll call to/morrow+ Mr. :athan+ and see *ou off to Birmingham. Coming m* wa*+ Mr. )olmes< .ell+ then+ good/b*e+ and we ma* have good news for *ou to/morrow night.6 # noticed that m* friend&s face cleared when the 1merican left the room+ and the loo( of thoughtful perple it* had vanished. 6# wish # could loo( over *our collection+ Mr. "arrideb+6 said he. 6#n m* profession all sorts of odd (nowledge comes useful+ and this room of *ours is a storehouse of it.6 'ur client shone with pleasure and his e*es gleamed from behind his big glasses. 6# had alwa*s heard+ sir+ that *ou were a ver* intelligent man+6 said he. 6# could ta(e *ou round now if *ou have the time.6 69nfortunatel*+ # have not. But these specimens are so well labelled and classified that the* hardl* need *our personal e planation. #f # should be able to loo( in to/morrow+ # presume that there would be no ob=ection to m* glancing over them<6 6:one at all. ;ou are most welcome. The place will+ of course+ be shut up+ but Mrs. Saunders is in the basement up to four o&cloc( and would let *ou in with her (e*.6 6.ell+ # happen to be clear to/morrow afternoon. #f *ou would

sa* a word to Mrs. Saunders it would be >uite in order. B* the wa*+ who is *our house/agent<6 'ur client was amazed at the sudden >uestion. 6)ollowa* and Steele+ in the 7dgware $oad. But wh*<6 6# am a bit of an archaeologist m*self when it comes to houses+6 said )olmes+ laughing. 6# was wondering if this was Gueen 1nne or "eorgian.6 6"eorgian+ be*ond doubt.6 6$eall*. # should have thought a little earlier. )owever+ it is easil* ascertained. .ell+ good/b*e+ Mr. "arrideb+ and ma* *ou have ever* success in *our Birmingham =ourne*.6 The house/agent&s was close b*+ but we found that it was closed for the da*+ so we made our wa* bac( to Ba(er Street. #t was not till after dinner that )olmes reverted to the sub=ect. 6'ur little problem draws to a close+6 said he. 6:o doubt *ou have outlined the solution in *our own mind.6 6# can ma(e neither head nor tail of it.6 6The head is surel* clear enough and the tail we should see to/morrow. -id *ou notice nothing curious about that advertisement<6 6# saw that the word &plough& was misspelt.6 6'h+ *ou did notice that+ did *ou< Come+ .atson+ *ou improve all the time. ;es+ it was bad 7nglish but good 1merican. The printer had set it up as received. Then the

buc(boards. That is 1merican also. 1nd artesian wells are commoner with them than with us. #t was a t*pical 1merican advertisement+ but purporting to be from an 7nglish firm. .hat do *ou ma(e of that<6 6# can onl* suppose that this 1merican law*er put it in himself. .hat his ob=ect was # fail to understand.6 6.ell+ there are alternative e planations. 1n*how+ he wanted to get this good old fossil up to Birmingham. That is ver* clear. # might have told him that he was clearl* going on a wild/goose chase+ but+ on second thoughts+ it seemed better to clear the stage b* letting him go. To/morrow+ .atson// well+ to/morrow will spea( for itself.6 )olmes was up and out earl*. .hen he returned at lunchtime # noticed that his face was ver* grave. 6This is a more serious matter than # had e pected+ .atson+6 said he. 6#t is fair to tell *ou so+ though # (now it will onl* be an additional reason to *ou for running *our head into danger. # should (now m* .atson b* now. But there is danger+ and *ou should (now it.6 6.ell+ it is not the first we have shared+ )olmes. # hope it ma* not be the last. .hat is the particular danger this time<6 6.e are up against a ver* hard case. # have identified Mr. Bohn "arrideb+ Counsellor at %aw. )e is none other than &Ciller& 7vans+ of sinister and murderous reputation.6 6# fear # am none the wiser.6 61h+ it is not part of *our profession to carr* about a portable :ewgate Calendar in *our memor*. # have been down to see friend %estrade at the ;ard. There ma* be an occasional

want of imaginative intuition down there+ but the* lead the world for thoroughness and method. # had an idea that we might get on the trac( of our 1merican friend in their records. Sure enough+ # found his chubb* face smiling up at me from the rogues& portrait galler*. &Bames .inter+ alias Morecroft+ alias Ciller 7vans+& was the inscription below.6 )olmes drew an envelope from his poc(et. 6# scribbled down a few points from his dossier@ 1ged fort*/four. :ative of Chicago. Cnown to have shot three men in the States. 7scaped from penitentiar* through political influence. Came to %ondon in 2353. Shot a man over cards in a night/club in the .aterloo $oad in Banuar*+ 235F. Man died+ but he was shown to have been the aggressor in the row. -ead man was identified as $odger Prescott+ famous as forger and coiner in Chicago. Ciller 7vans released in 25D2. )as been under police supervision since+ but so far as (nown has led an honest life. !er* dangerous man+ usuall* carries arms and is prepared to use them. That is our bird+ .atson//a sporting bird+ as *ou must admit.6 6But what is his game<6 6.ell+ it begins to define itself. # have been to the houseagent&s. 'ur client+ as he told us+ has been there five *ears. #t was unlet for a *ear before then. The previous tenant was a gentleman at large named .aldron. .aldron&s appearance was well remembered at the office. )e had suddenl* vanished and nothing more been heard of him. )e was a tall+ bearded man with ver* dar( features. :ow+ Prescott+ the man whom Ciller 7vans had shot+ was+ according to Scotland ;ard+ a tall+ dar( man with a beard. 1s a wor(ing h*pothesis+ # thin( we ma* ta(e it that Prescott+ the 1merican criminal+ used to live in the ver* room which our innocent friend now devotes to his museum. So at last we get a lin(+ *ou see.6

61nd the ne t lin(<6 6.ell+ we must go now and loo( for that.6 )e too( a revolver from the drawer and handed it to me. 6# have m* old favourite with me. #f our .ild .est friend tries to live up to his nic(name+ we must be read* for him. #&ll give *ou an hour for a siesta+ .atson+ and then # thin( it will be time for our $*der Street adventure.6 #t was =ust four o&cloc( when we reached the curious apartment of :athan "arrideb. Mrs. Saunders+ the careta(er+ was about to leave+ but she had no hesitation in admitting us+ for the door shut with a spring loc(+ and )olmes promised to see that all was safe before we left. Shortl* afterwards the outer door closed+ her bonnet passed the bow window+ and we (new that we were alone in the lower floor of the house. )olmes made a rapid e amination of the premises. There was one cupboard in a dar( corner which stood out a little from the wall. #t was behind this that we eventuall* crouched while )olmes in a whisper outlined his intentions. 6)e wanted to get our amiable friend out of his room//that is ver* clear+ and+ as the collector never went out+ it too( some planning to do it. The whole of this "arrideb invention was apparentl* for no other end. # must sa*+ .atson+ that there is a certain devilish ingenuit* about it+ even if the >ueer name of the tenant did give him an opening which he could hardl* have e pected. )e wove his plot with remar(able cunning.&& 6But what did he want<6 6.ell+ that is what we are here to find out. #t has nothing whatever to do with our client+ so far as # can read the

situation. #t is something connected with the man he murdered//the man who ma* have been his confederate in crime. There is some guilt* secret in the room. That is how # read it. 1t first # thought our friend might have something in his collection more valuable than he (new//something worth the attention of a big criminal. But the fact that $odger Prescott of evil memor* inhabited these rooms points to some deeper reason. .ell+ .atson+ we can but possess our souls in patience and see what the hour ma* bring.6 That hour was not long in stri(ing. .e crouched closer in the shadow as we heard the outer door open and shut. Then came the sharp+ metallic snap of a (e*+ and the 1merican was in the room. )e closed the door softl* behind him+ too( a sharp glance around him to see that all was safe+ threw off his overcoat+ and wal(ed up to the central table with the bris( manner of one who (nows e actl* what he has to do and how to do it. )e pushed the table to one side+ tore up the s>uare of carpet on which it rested+ rolled it completel* bac(+ and then+ drawing a =emm* from his inside poc(et+ he (nelt down and wor(ed vigorousl* upon the floor. Presentl* we heard the sound of sliding boards+ and an instant later a s>uare had opened in the plan(s. Ciller 7vans struc( a match+ lit a stump of candle+ and vanished from our view. Clearl* our moment had come. )olmes touched m* wrist as a signal+ and together we stole across to the open trap/door. "entl* as we moved+ however+ the old floor must have crea(ed under our feet+ for the head of our 1merican+ peering an iousl* round+ emerged suddenl* from the open space. )is face turned upon us with a glare of baffled rage+ which graduall* softened into a rather shamefaced grin as he realized that two pistols were pointed at his head. 6.ell+ well86 said he cooll* as he scrambled to the surface. 6#

guess *ou have been one too man* for me+ Mr. )olmes. Saw through m* game+ # suppose+ and pla*ed me for a suc(er from the first. .ell+ sir+ # hand it to *ou0 *ou have me beat and//6 #n an instant he had whis(ed out a revolver from his breast and had fired two shots. # felt a sudden hot sear as if a red/ hot iron had been pressed to m* thigh. There was a crash as )olmes&s pistol came down on the man&s head. # had a vision of him sprawling upon the floor with blood running down his face while )olmes rummaged him for weapons. Then m* friend&s wir* arms were round me+ and he was leading me to a chair. 6;ou&re not hurt+ .atson< ,or "od&s sa(e+ sa* that *ou are not hurt86 #t was worth a wound//it was worth man* wounds//to (now the depth of lo*alt* and love which la* behind that cold mas(. The clear+ hard e*es were dimmed for a moment+ and the firm lips were sha(ing. ,or the one and onl* time # caught a glimpse of a great heart as well as of a great brain. 1ll m* *ears of humble but single/minded service culminated in that moment of revelation. 6#t&s nothing+ )olmes. #t&s a mere scratch.6 )e had ripped up m* trousers with his poc(et/(nife. 6;ou are right+6 he cried with an immense sigh of relief. 6#t is >uite superficial.6 )is face set li(e flint as he glared at our prisoner+ who was sitting up with a dazed face. 6B* the %ord+ it is as well for *ou. #f *ou had (illed .atson+ *ou would not have got out of this room alive. :ow+ sir+ what have *ou to sa* for *ourself<6

)e had nothing to sa* for himself. )e onl* sat and scowled. # leaned on )olmes&s arm+ and together we loo(ed down into the small cellar which had been disclosed b* the secret flap. #t was still illuminated b* the candle which 7vans had ta(en down with him. 'ur e*es fell upon a mass of rusted machiner*+ great rolls of paper+ a litter of bottles+ and+ neatl* arranged upon a small table+ a number of neat little bundles. 61 printing press//a counterfeiter&s outfit+6 said )olmes. 6;es+ sir+6 said our prisoner+ staggering slowl* to his feet and then sin(ing into the chair. 6The greatest counterfeiter %ondon ever saw. That&s Prescott&s machine+ and those bundles on the table are two thousand of Prescott&s notes worth a hundred each and fit to pass an*where. )elp *ourselves+ gentlemen. Call it a deal and let me beat it.6 )olmes laughed. 6.e don&t do things li(e that+ Mr. 7vans. There is no bolthole for *ou in this countr*. ;ou shot this man Prescott+ did *ou not<6 6;es+ sir+ and got five *ears for it+ though it was he who pulled on me. ,ive *ears//when # should have had a medal the size of a soup plate. :o living man could tell a Prescott from a Ban( of 7ngland+ and if # hadn&t put him out he would have flooded %ondon with them. # was the onl* one in the world who (new where he made them. Can *ou wonder that # wanted to get to the place< 1nd can *ou wonder that when # found this craz* boob of a bug/hunter with the >ueer name s>uatting right on the top of it+ and never >uitting his room+ # had to do the best # could to shift him< Ma*be # would have been wiser if # had put him awa*. #t would have been eas* enough+ but #&m a soft/hearted gu* that can&t begin shooting

unless the other man has a gun also. But sa*+ Mr. )olmes+ what have # done wrong+ an*how< #&ve not used this plant. #&ve not hurt this old stiff. .here do *ou get me<6 6'nl* attempted murder+ so far as # can see+6 said )olmes. 6But that&s not our =ob. The* ta(e that at the ne t stage. .hat we wanted at present was =ust *our sweet self. Please give the ;ard a call+ .atson. #t won&t be entirel* une pected.6 So those were the facts about Ciller 7vans and his remar(able invention of the three "arridebs. .e heard later that our poor old friend never got over the shoc( of his dissipated dreams. .hen his castle in the air fell down+ it buried him beneath the ruins. )e was last heard of at a nursing/home in Bri ton. #t was a glad da* at the ;ard when the Prescott outfit was discovered+ for+ though the* (new that it e isted+ the* had never been able+ after the death of the man+ to find out where it was. 7vans had indeed done great service and caused several worth* C. #. -. men to sleep the sounder+ for the counterfeiter stands in a class b* himself as a public danger. The* would willingl* have subscribed to that soup/plate medal of which the criminal had spo(en+ but an unappreciative bench too( a less favourable view+ and the Ciller returned to those shades from which he had =ust emerged.

AD$"!T%#" $&' TH" AD$"!T%#" &**%ST#& %S C*&"!T

F TH"

6#t can&t hurt now+6 was Mr. Sherloc( )olmes&s comment when+ for the tenth time in as man* *ears+ # as(ed his leave to reveal the following narrative. So it was that at last # obtained permission to put on record what was+ in some wa*s+ the supreme moment of m* friend&s career.

Both )olmes and # had a wea(ness for the Tur(ish bath. #t was over a smo(e in the pleasant lassitude of the dr*ing/ room that # have found him less reticent and more human than an*where else. 'n the upper floor of the :orthumberland 1venue establishment there is an isolated corner where two couches lie side b* side+ and it was on these that we la* upon September 3+ 25DA+ the da* when m* narrative begins. # had as(ed him whether an*thing was stirring+ and for answer he had shot his long+ thin+ nervous arm out of the sheets which enveloped him and had drawn an envelope from the inside poc(et of the coat which hung beside him. 6#t ma* be some fuss*+ self/important fool0 it ma* be a matter of life or death+6 said he as he handed me the note. 6# (now no more than this message tells me.6 #t was from the Carlton Club and dated the evening before. This is what # read@
Sir Bames -amer* presents his compliments to Mr. Sherloc( )olmes and will call upon him at E@3D to/morrow. Sir Bames begs to sa* that the matter upon which he desires to consult Mr. )olmes is ver* delicate and also ver* important. )e trusts+ therefore+ that Mr. )olmes will ma(e ever* effort to grant this interview+ and that he will confirm it over the telephone to the Carlton Club.

6# need not sa* that # have confirmed it+ .atson+6 said )olmes as # returned the paper. 6-o *ou (now an*thing of this man -amer*<6 6'nl* that this name is a household word in societ*.6 6.ell+ # can tell *ou a little more than that. )e has rather a reputation for arranging delicate matters which are to be (ept out of the papers. ;ou ma* remember his negotiations with Sir "eorge %ewis over the )ammerford .ill case. )e is a

man of the world with a natural turn for diplomac*. # am bound+ therefore+ to hope that it is not a false scent and that he has some real need for our assistance.6 6'ur<6 6.ell+ if *ou will be so good+ .atson.6 6# shall be honoured.6 6Then *ou have the hour//E@3D. 9ntil then we can put the matter out of our heads.6 # was living in m* own rooms in Gueen 1nne Street at the time+ but # was round at Ba(er Street before the time named. Sharp to the half/hour+ Colonel Sir Bames -amer* was announced. #t is hardl* necessar* to describe him+ for man* will remember that large+ bluff+ honest personalit*+ that broad+ cleanshaven face+ and+ above all+ that pleasant+ mellow voice. ,ran(ness shone from his gra* #rish e*es+ and good humour pla*ed round his mobile+ smiling lips. )is lucent top/hat+ his dar( froc(/coat+ indeed+ ever* detail+ from the pearl pin in the blac( satin cravat to the lavender spats over the varnished shoes+ spo(e of the meticulous care in dress for which he was famous. The big+ masterful aristocrat dominated the little room. 6'f course+ # was prepared to find -r. .atson+6 he remar(ed with a courteous bow. 6)is collaboration ma* be ver* necessar*+ for we are dealing on this occasion+ Mr. )olmes+ with a man to whom violence is familiar and who will+ literall*+ stic( at nothing. # should sa* that there is no more dangerous man in 7urope.6 6# have had several opponents to whom that flattering term has been applied+6 said )olmes with a smile. 6-on&t *ou

smo(e< Then *ou will e cuse me if # light m* pipe. #f *our man is more dangerous than the late Professor Moriart*+ or than the living Colonel Sebastian Moran+ then he is indeed worth meeting. Ma* # as( his name<6 6)ave *ou ever heard of Baron "runer<6 6;ou mean the 1ustrian murderer<6 Colonel -amer* threw up his (id/gloved hands with a laugh. 6There is no getting past *ou+ Mr. )olmes8 .onderful8 So *ou have alread* sized him up as a murderer<6 6#t is m* business to follow the details of Continental crime. .ho could possibl* have read what happened at Prague and have an* doubts as to the man&s guilt8 #t was a purel* technical legal point and the suspicious death of a witness that saved him8 # am as sure that he (illed his wife when the socalled &accident& happened in the Splugen Pass as if # had seen him do it. # (new+ also+ that he had come to 7ngland and had a presentiment that sooner or later he would find me some wor( to do. .ell+ what has Baron "runer been up to< # presume it is not this old traged* which has come up again<6 6:o+ it is more serious than that. To revenge crime is important+ but to prevent it is more so. #t is a terrible thing+ Mr. )olmes+ to see a dreadful event+ an atrocious situation+ preparing itself before *our e*es+ to clearl* understand whither it will lead and *et to be utterl* unable to avert it. Can a human being be placed in a more tr*ing position<6 6Perhaps not.6 6Then *ou will s*mpathize with the client in whose interests # am acting.6

6# did not understand that *ou were merel* an intermediar*. .ho is the principal<6 6Mr. )olmes+ # must beg *ou not to press that >uestion. #t is important that # should be able to assure him that his honoured name has been in no wa* dragged into the matter. )is motives are+ to the last degree+ honourable and chivalrous+ but he prefers to remain un(nown. # need not sa* that *our fees will be assured and that *ou will be given a perfectl* free hand. Surel* the actual name of *our client is immaterial<6 6# am sorr*+6 said )olmes. 6# am accustomed to have m*ster* at one end of m* cases+ but to have it at both ends is too confusing. # fear+ Sir Bames+ that # must decline to act.6 'ur visitor was greatl* disturbed. )is large+ sensitive face was dar(ened with emotion and disappointment. 6;ou hardl* realize the effect of *our own action+ Mr. )olmes+6 said he. 6;ou place me in a most serious dilemma for # am perfectl* certain that *ou would be proud to ta(e over the case if # could give *ou the facts+ and *et a promise forbids me from revealing them all. Ma* #+ at least+ la* all that # can before *ou<6 6B* all means+ so long as it is understood that # commit m*self to nothing.6 6That is understood. #n the first place+ *ou have no doubt heard of "eneral de Merville<6 6-e Merville of Ch*ber fame< ;es+ # have heard of him.6 6)e has a daughter+ !iolet de Merville+ *oung+ rich+ beautiful+ accomplished+ a wonder/woman in ever* wa*. #t is this

daughter+ this lovel*+ innocent girl+ whom we endeavouring to save from the clutches of a fiend.6 6Baron "runer has some hold over her+ then<6

are

6The strongest of all holds where a woman is concerned//the hold of love. The fellow is+ as *ou ma* have heard+ e traordinaril* handsome+ with a most fascinating manner. a gentle voice and that air of romance and m*ster* which means so much to a woman. )e is said to have the whole se at his merc* and to have made ample use of the fact.6 6But how came such a man to meet a lad* of the standing of Miss !iolet de Merville<6 6#t was on a Mediterranean *achting vo*age. The compan*+ though select+ paid their own passages. :o doubt the promoters hardl* realized the Baron&s true character until it was too late. The villain attached himself to the lad*+ and with such effect that he has completel* and absolutel* won her heart. To sa* that she loves him hardl* e presses it. She dotes upon him+ she is obsessed b* him. 'utside of him there is nothing on earth. She will not hear one word against him. 7ver*thing has been done to cure her of her madness+ but in vain. To sum up+ she proposes to marr* him ne t month. 1s she is of age and has a will of iron+ it is hard to (now how to prevent her.6 6-oes she (now about the 1ustrian episode<6 6The cunning devil has told her ever* unsavour* public scandal of his past life+ but alwa*s in such a wa* as to ma(e himself out to be an innocent mart*r. She absolutel* accepts his version and will listen to no other.6 6-ear me8 But surel* *ou have inadvertentl* let out the name

of *our client< #t is no doubt "eneral de Merville.6 'ur visitor fidgeted in his chair. 6# could deceive *ou b* sa*ing so+ Mr. )olmes+ but it would not be true. -e Merville is a bro(en man. The strong soldier has been utterl* demoralized b* this incident. )e has lost the nerve which never failed him on the battlefield and has become a wea(+ doddering old man+ utterl* incapable of contending with a brilliant+ forceful rascal li(e this 1ustrian. M* client however is an old friend+ one who has (nown the "eneral intimatel* for man* *ears and ta(en a paternal interest in this *oung girl since she wore short froc(s. )e cannot see this traged* consummated without some attempt to stop it. There is nothing in which Scotland ;ard can act. #t was his own suggestion that *ou should be called in+ but it was+ as # have said+ on the e press stipulation that he should not be personall* involved in the matter. # have no doubt+ Mr. )olmes+ with *our great powers *ou could easil* trace m* client bac( through me+ but # must as( *ou+ as a point of honour+ to refrain from doing so+ and not to brea( in upon his incognito.6 )olmes gave a whimsical smile. 6# thin( # ma* safel* promise that+6 said he. 6# ma* add that *our problem interests me+ and that # shall be prepared to loo( into it. )ow shall # (eep in touch with *ou<6 6The Carlton Club will find me. But in case of emergenc*+ there is a private telephone call+ &JJ.32.&6 )olmes noted it down and sat+ still smiling+ with the open memorandum/boo( upon his (nee. 6The Baron&s present address+ please<6

6!ernon %odge+ near Cingston. #t is a large house. )e has been fortunate in some rather shad* speculations and is a rich man+ which naturall* ma(es him a more dangerous antagonist.6 6#s he at home at present<6 6;es.6 61part from what *ou have told me+ can *ou give me an* further information about the man<6 6)e has e pensive tastes. )e is a horse fancier. ,or a short time he pla*ed polo at )urlingham+ but then this Prague affair got noised about and he had to leave. )e collects boo(s and pictures. )e is a man with a considerable artistic side to his nature. )e is+ # believe+ a recognized authorit* upon Chinese potter* and has written a boo( upon the sub=ect.6 61 comple mind+6 said )olmes. 61ll great criminals have that. M* old friend Charlie Peace was a violin virtuoso. .ainwright was no mean artist. # could >uote man* more. .ell+ Sir Bames+ *ou will inform *our client that # am turning m* mind upon Baron "runer. # can sa* no more. # have some sources of information of m* own+ and # dare sa* we ma* find some means of opening the matter up.6 .hen our visitor had left us )olmes sat so long in deep thought that it seemed to me that he had forgotten m* presence. 1t last+ however+ he came bris(l* bac( to earth. 6.ell+ .atson+ an* views<6 he as(ed. 6# should thin( *ou had better see the *oung lad* herself.6

6M* dear .atson+ if her poor old bro(en father cannot move her+ how shall #+ a stranger+ prevail< 1nd *et there is something in the suggestion if all else fails. But # thin( we must begin from a different angle. # rather fanc* that Shinwell Bohnson might be a help.6 # have not had occasion to mention Shinwell Bohnson in these memoirs because # have seldom drawn m* cases from the latter phases of m* friend&s career. -uring the first *ears of the centur* he became a valuable assistant. Bohnson+ # grieve to sa*+ made his name first as a ver* dangerous villain and served two terms at Par(hurst. ,inall* he repented and allied himself to )olmes+ acting as his agent in the huge criminal underworld of %ondon and obtaining information which often proved to be of vital importance. )ad Bohnson been a 6nar(6 of the police he would soon have been e posed+ but as he dealt with cases which never came directl* into the courts+ his activities were never realized b* his companions. .ith the glamour of his two convictions upon him+ he had the entree of ever* night/club+ doss house+ and gamblingden in the town+ and his >uic( observation and active brain made him an ideal agent for gaining information. #t was to him that Sherloc( )olmes now proposed to turn. #t was not possible for me to follow the immediate steps ta(en b* m* friend+ for # had some pressing professional business of m* own+ but # met him b* appointment that evening at Simpson&s+ where+ sitting at a small table in the front window and loo(ing down at the rushing stream of life in the Strand+ he told me something of what had passed. 6Bohnson is on the prowl+6 said he. 6)e ma* pic( up some garbage in the dar(er recesses of the underworld+ for it is down there+ amid the blac( roots of crime+ that we must hunt for this man&s secrets.6

6But if the lad* will not accept what is alread* (nown+ wh* should an* fresh discover* of *ours turn her from her purpose<6 6.ho (nows+ .atson< .oman&s heart and mind are insoluble puzzles to the male. Murder might be condoned or e plained+ and *et some smaller offence might ran(le. Baron "runer remar(ed to me//6 6)e remar(ed to *ou86 6'h+ to be sure+ # had not told *ou of m* plans. .ell+ .atson+ # love to come to close grips with m* man. # li(e to meet him e*e to e*e and read for m*self the stuff that he is made of. .hen # had given Bohnson his instructions # too( a cab out to Cingston and found the Baron in a most affable mood.6 6-id he recognize *ou<6 6There was no difficult* about that+ for # simpl* sent in m* card. )e is an e cellent antagonist+ cool as ice+ sil(* voiced and soothing as one of *our fashionable consultants+ and poisonous as a cobra. )e has breeding in him//a real aristocrat of crime with a superficial suggestion of afternoon tea and all the cruelt* of the grave behind it. ;es+ # am glad to have had m* attention called to Baron 1delbert "runer.6 6;ou sa* he was affable<6 61 purring cat who thin(s he sees prospective mice. Some people&s affabilit* is more deadl* than the violence of coarser souls. )is greeting was characteristic. &# rather thought # should see *ou sooner or later+ Mr. )olmes+& said he. &;ou have been engaged+ no doubt b* "eneral de Merville+ to endeavour to stop m* marriage with his daughter+ !iolet.

That is so+ is it not<& 6# ac>uiesced. 6&M* dear man+& said he. &*ou will onl* ruin *our own well/ deserved reputation. #t is not a case in which *ou can possibl* succeed. ;ou will have barren wor(+ to sa* nothing of incurring some danger. %et me ver* strongl* advise *ou to draw off at once.& 6&#t is curious+& # answered+ &but that was the ver* advice which # had intended to give *ou. # have a respect for *our brains+ Baron+ and the little which # have seen of *our personalit* has not lessened it. %et me put it to *ou as man to man. :o one wants to ra(e up *our past and ma(e *ou undul* uncomfortable. #t is over+ and *ou are now in smooth waters+ but if *ou persist in this marriage *ou will raise up a swarm of powerful enemies who will never leave *ou alone until the* have made 7ngland too hot to hold *ou. #s the game worth it< Surel* *ou would be wiser if *ou left the lad* alone. #t would not be pleasant for *ou if these facts of *our past were brought to her notice.& 6The Baron has little wa ed tips of hair under his nose+ li(e the short antennae of an insect. These >uivered with amusement as he listened+ and he finall* bro(e into a gentle chuc(le. 6&7 cuse m* amusement+ Mr. )olmes+& said he+ &but it is reall* funn* to see *ou tr*ing to pla* a hand with no cards in it. # don&t thin( an*one could do it better+ but it is rather pathetic all the same. :ot a colour card there+ Mr. )olmes+ nothing but the smallest of the small.& 6&So *ou thin(.&

6&So # (now. %et me ma(e the thing clear to *ou+ for m* own hand is so strong that # can afford to show it. # have been fortunate enough to win the entire affection of this lad*. This was given to me in spite of the fact that # told her ver* clearl* of all the unhapp* incidents in m* past life. # also told her that certain wic(ed and designing persons //# hope *ou recognize *ourself//would come to her and tell her these things. and # warned her how to treat them. ;ou have heard of post/h*pnotic suggestion. Mr. )olmes. .ell *ou will see how it wor(s for a man of personalit* can use h*pnotism without an* vulgar passes or tomfooler*. So she is read* for *ou and+ # have no doubt+ would give *ou an appointment+ for she is >uite amenable to her father&s will//save onl* in the one little matter.& 6.ell+ .atson+ there seemed to be no more to sa*+ so # too( m* leave with as much cold dignit* as # could summon+ but+ as # had m* hand on the door/handle+ he stopped me. 6&B* the wa*+ Mr. )olmes+& said he+ &did *ou (now %e Brun+ the ,rench agent<& 6&;es+& said #. 6&-o *ou (now what befell him<& 6&# heard that he was beaten b* some 1paches in the Montmartre district and crippled for life.& 6&Guite true+ Mr. )olmes. B* a curious coincidence he had been in>uiring into m* affairs onl* a wee( before. -on&t do it+ Mr. )olmes0 it&s not a luc(* thing to do. Several have found that out. M* last word to *ou is+ go *our own wa* and let me go mine. "ood/b*e8& 6So there *ou are+ .atson. ;ou are up to date now.6

6The fellow seems dangerous.6 6Might* dangerous. # disregard the blusterer+ but this is the sort of man who sa*s rather less than he means.6 6Must *ou interfere< -oes it reall* matter if he marries the girl<6 6Considering that he undoubtedl* murdered his last wife+ # should sa* it mattered ver* much. Besides+ the client8 .ell+ well+ we need not discuss that. .hen *ou have finished *our coffee *ou had best come home with me+ for the blithe Shinwell will be there with his report.6 .e found him sure enough+ a huge+ coarse+ red/faced+ scorbutic man+ with a pair of vivid blac( e*es which were the onl* e ternal sign of the ver* cunning mind within. #t seems that he had dived down into what was peculiarl* his (ingdom+ and beside him on the settee was a brand which he had brought up in the shape of a slim+ flame/li(e *oung woman with a pale+ intense face+ *outhful+ and *et so worn with sin and sorrow that one read the terrible *ears which had left their leprous mar( upon her. 6This is Miss Citt* .inter+6 said Shinwell Bohnson+ waving his fat hand as an introduction. 6.hat she don&t (now//well+ there+ she&ll spea( for herself. Put m* hand right on her+ Mr. )olmes+ within an hour of *our message.6 6#&m eas* to find+6 said the *oung woman. 6)ell+ %ondon+ gets me ever* time. Same address for Por(* Shinwell. .e&re old mates+ Por(*+ *ou and #. But+ b* cripes8 there is another who ought to be down in a lower hell than we if there was an* =ustice in the world8 That is the man *ou are after+ Mr. )olmes.6

)olmes smiled. 6# gather we have *our good wishes+ Miss .inter.6 6#f # can help to put him where he belongs+ #&m *ours to the rattle+6 said our visitor with fierce energ*. There was an intensit* of hatred in her white+ set face and her blazing e*es such as woman seldom and man never can attain. 6;ou needn&t go into m* past+ Mr. )olmes. That&s neither here nor there. But what # am 1delbert "runer made me. #f # could pull him down86 She clutched franticall* with her hands into the air. 6'h+ if # could onl* pull him into the pit where he has pushed so man*86 6;ou (now how the matter stands<6 6Por(* Shinwell has been telling me. )e&s after some other poor fool and wants to marr* her this time. ;ou want to stop it. .ell+ *ou surel* (now enough about this devil to prevent an* decent girl in her senses wanting to be in the same parish with him.6 6She is not in her senses. She is madl* in love. She has been told all about him. She cares nothing.6 6Told about the murder<6 6;es.6 6M* %ord+ she must have a nerve86 6She puts them all down as slanders.6 6Couldn&t *ou la* proofs before her sill* e*es<6 6.ell+ can *ou help us do so<6

61in&t # a proof m*self< #f # stood before her and told her how he used me//6 6.ould *ou do this<6 6.ould #< .ould # not86 6.ell+ it might be worth tr*ing. But he has told her most of his sins and had pardon from her+ and # understand she will not reopen the >uestion.6 6#&ll la* he didn&t tell her all+6 said Miss .inter. 6# caught a glimpse of one or two murders besides the one that made such a fuss. )e would spea( of someone in his velvet wa* and then loo( at me with a stead* e*e and sa*@ &)e died within a month.& #t wasn&t hot air+ either. But # too( little notice//*ou see+ # loved him m*self at that time. .hatever he did went with me+ same as with this poor fool8 There was =ust one thing that shoo( me. ;es+ b* cripes8 if it had not been for his poisonous+ l*ing tongue that e plains and soothes. #&d have left him that ver* night. #t&s a boo( he has//a brown leather boo( with a loc(+ and his arms in gold on the outside. # thin( he was a bit drun( that night+ or he would not have shown it to me.6 6.hat was it+ then<6 6# tell *ou. Mr. )olmes. this man collects women+ and ta(es a pride in his collection. as some men collect moths or butterflies. )e had it all in that boo(. Snapshot photographs. names+ details+ ever*thing about them. #t was a beastl* boo(//a boo( no man+ even if he had come from the gutter+ could have put together. But it was 1delbert "runer&s boo( all the same. &Souls # have ruined.& )e could have put that on the outside if he had been so minded. )owever+ that&s

neither here nor there+ for the boo( would not serve *ou+ and+ if it would+ *ou can&t get it.6 6.here is it<6 6)ow can # tell *ou where it is now< #t&s more than a *ear since # left him. # (now where he (ept it then. )e&s a precise+ tid* cat of a man in man* of his wa*s+ so ma*be it is still in the pigeon/hole of the old bureau in the inner stud*. -o *ou (now his house<6 6#&ve been in the stud*+6 said )olmes. 6)ave *ou. though< ;ou haven&t been slow on the =ob if *ou onl* started this morning. Ma*be dear 1delbert has met his match this time. The outer stud* is the one with the Chinese croc(er* in it//big glass cupboard between the windows. Then behind his des( is the door that leads to the inner stud*//a small room where he (eeps papers and things.6 6#s he not afraid of burglars<6 61delbert is no coward. )is worst enem* couldn&t sa* that of him. )e can loo( after himself. There&s a burglar alarm at night. Besides+ what is there for a burglar//unless the* got awa* with all this fanc* croc(er*<6 6:o good+6 said Shinwell Bohnson with the decided voice of the e pert. 6:o fence wants stuff of that sort that *ou can neither melt nor sell.6 6Guite so+6 said )olmes. 6.ell+ now+ Miss .inter. if *ou would call here tomorrow evening at five. # would consider in the meanwhile whether *our suggestion of seeing this lad* personall* ma* not be arranged. # am e ceedingl* obliged to *ou for *our cooperation. # need not sa* that m* clients will

consider liberall*//6 6:one of that+ Mr. )olmes+6 cried the *oung woman. 6# am not out for mone*. %et me see this man in the mud+ and #&ve got all #&ve wor(ed for //in the mud with m* foot on his cursed face. That&s m* price. #&m with *ou tomorrow or an* other da* so long as *ou are on his trac(. Por(* here can tell *ou alwa*s where to find me.6 # did not see )olmes again until the following evening when we dined once more at our Strand restaurant. )e shrugged his shoulders when # as(ed him what luc( he had had in his interview. Then he told the stor*+ which # would repeat in this wa*. )is hard+ dr* statement needs some little editing to soften it into the terms of real life. 6There was no difficult* at all about the appointment+6 said )olmes+ 6for the girl glories in showing ab=ect filial obedience in all secondar* things in an attempt to atone for her flagrant breach of it in her engagement. The "eneral phoned that all was read*+ and the fier* Miss .. turned up according to schedule+ so that at half/past five a cab deposited us outside 2DE Ber(ele* S>uare+ where the old soldier resides//one of those awful gra* %ondon castles which would ma(e a church seem frivolous. 1 footman showed us into a great *ellow/ curtained drawing/room+ and there was the lad* awaiting us+ demure+ pale+ self/contained+ as infle ible and remote as a snow image on a mountain. 6# don&t >uite (now how to ma(e her clear to *ou+ .atson. Perhaps *ou ma* meet her before we are through+ and *ou can use *our own gift of words. She is beautiful+ but with the ethereal other/world beaut* of some fanatic whose thoughts are set on high. # have seen such faces in the pictures of the old masters of the Middle 1ges. )ow a beastman could have

laid his vile paws upon such a being of the be*ond # cannot imagine. ;ou ma* have noticed how e tremes call to each other+ the spiritual to the animal+ the cave/man to the angel. ;ou never saw a worse case than this. 6She (new what we had come for+ of course//that villain had lost no time in poisoning her mind against us. Miss .inter&s advent rather amazed her+ # thin(+ but she waved us into our respective chairs li(e a reverend abbess receiving two rather leprous mendicants. #f *our head is inclined to swell. m* dear .atson+ ta(e a course of Miss !iolet de Merville. 6&.ell+ sir+& said she in a voice li(e the wind from an iceberg+ &*our name is familiar to me. ;ou have called. as # understand+ to malign m* fiance+ Baron "runer. #t is onl* b* m* father&s re>uest that # see *ou at all+ and # warn *ou in advance that an*thing *ou can sa* could not possibl* have the slightest effect upon m* mind.& 6# was sorr* for her+ .atson. # thought of her for the moment as # would have thought of a daughter of m* own. # am not often elo>uent. # use m* head+ not m* heart. But # reall* did plead with her with all the warmth of words that # could find in m* nature. # pictured to her the awful position of the woman who onl* wa(es to a man&s character after she is his wife//a woman who has to submit to be caressed b* blood* hands and lecherous lips. # spared her nothing//the shame+ the fear+ the agon*+ the hopelessness of it all. 1ll m* hot words could not bring one tinge of colour to those ivor* chee(s or one gleam of emotion to those abstracted e*es. # thought of what the rascal had said about a post/h*pnotic influence. 'ne could reall* believe that she was living above the earth in some ecstatic dream. ;et there was nothing indefinite in her replies.

6&# have listened to *ou with patience+ Mr. )olmes+& said she. &The effect upon m* mind is e actl* as predicted. # am aware that 1delbert+ that m* fiance+ has had a storm* life in which he has incurred bitter hatreds and most un=ust aspersions. ;ou are onl* the last of a series who have brought their slanders before me. Possibl* *ou mean well+ though # learn that *ou are a paid agent who would have been e>uall* willing to act for the Baron as against him. But in an* case # wish *ou to understand once for all that # love him and that he loves me+ and that the opinion of all the world is no more to me than the twitter of those birds outside the window. #f his noble nature has ever for an instant fallen+ it ma* be that # have been speciall* sent to raise it to its true and loft* level. # am not clear&//here she turned e*es upon m* companion//&who this *oung lad* ma* be.& 6# was about to answer when the girl bro(e in li(e a whirlwind. #f ever *ou saw flame and ice face to face+ it was those two women. 6&#&ll tell *ou who # am+& she cried+ springing out of her chair+ her mouth all twisted with passion//&# am his last mistress. # am one of a hundred that he has tempted and used and ruined and thrown into the refuse heap+ as he will *ou also. ;our refuse heap is more li(el* to be a grave+ and ma*be that&s the best. # tell *ou+ *ou foolish woman+ if *ou marr* this man he&ll be the death of *ou. #t ma* be a bro(en heart or it ma* be a bro(en nec(+ but he&ll have *ou one wa* or the other. #t&s not out of love for *ou #&m spea(ing. # don&t care a tin(er&s curse whether *ou live or die. #t&s out of hate for him and to spite him and to get bac( on him for what he did to me. But it&s all the same+ and *ou needn&t loo( at me li(e that+ m* fine lad*+ for *ou ma* be lower than # am before *ou are through with it.&

6&# should prefer not to discuss such matters+& said Miss de Merville coldl*. &%et me sa* once for all that # am aware of three passages in m* fiance&s life in which he became entangled with designing women+ and that # am assured of his heart* repentance for an* evil that he ma* have done.& 6&Three passages8& screamed m* companion. &;ou fool8 ;ou unutterable fool8& 6&Mr. )olmes+ # beg that *ou will bring this interview to an end+& said the ic* voice. &# have obe*ed m* father&s wish in seeing *ou+ but # am not compelled to listen to the ravings of this person.& 6.ith an oath Miss .inter darted forward+ and if # had not caught her wrist she would have clutched this maddening woman b* the hair. # dragged her towards the door and was luc(* to get her bac( into the cab without a public scene+ for she was beside herself with rage. #n a cold wa* # felt prett* furious m*self+ .atson+ for there was something indescribabl* anno*ing in the calm aloofness and supreme self/complaisance of the woman whom we were tr*ing to save. So now once again *ou (now e actl* how we stand+ and it is clear that # must plan some fresh opening move+ for this gambit won&t wor(. #&ll (eep in touch with *ou+ .atson+ for it is more than li(el* that *ou will have *our part to pla*+ though it is =ust possible that the ne t move ma* lie with them rather than with us.6 1nd it did. Their blow fell//or his blow rather+ for never could # believe that the lad* was priv* to it. # thin( # could show *ou the ver* paving/stone upon which # stood when m* e*es fell upon the placard+ and a pang of horror passed through m* ver* soul. #t was between the "rand )otel and Charing Cross Station+ where a one/legged news/vender displa*ed

his evening papers. The date was =ust two da*s after the last conversation. There+ blac( upon *ellow+ was the terrible news/sheet@ M9$-7$'9S 1TT1CC 9P': S)7$%'CC )'%M7S # thin( # stood stunned for some moments. Then # have a confused recollection of snatching at a paper+ of the remonstrance of the man+ whom # had not paid+ and+ finall*+ of standing in the doorwa* of a chemist&s shop while # turned up the fateful paragraph. This was how it ran@
.e learn with regret that Mr. Sherloc( )olmes+ the well/(nown private detective+ was the victim this morning of a murderous assault which has left him in a precarious position. There are no e act details to hand+ but the event seems to have occurred about twelve o&cloc( in $egent Street+ outside the Cafe $o*al. The attac( was made b* two men armed with stic(s+ and Mr. )olmes was beaten about the head and bod*+ receiving in=uries which the doctors describe as most serious. )e was carried to Charing Cross )ospital and afterwards insisted upon being ta(en to his rooms in Ba(er Street. The miscreants who attac(ed him appear to have been respectabl* dressed men+ who escaped from the b*standers b* passing through the Cafe $o*al and out into "lasshouse Street behind it. :o doubt the* belonged to that criminal fraternit* which has so often had occasion to bewail the activit* and ingenuit* of the in=ured man.

# need not sa* that m* e*es had hardl* glanced over the paragraph before # had sprung into a hansom and was on m* wa* to Ba(er Street. # found Sir %eslie 'a(shott+ the famous surgeon+ in the hall and his brougham waiting at the curb. 6:o immediate danger+6 was his report. 6Two lacerated scalp wounds and some considerable bruises. Several stitches have been necessar*. Morphine has been in=ected and >uiet is essential+ but an interview of a few minutes would not be

absolutel* forbidden.6 .ith this permission # stole into the dar(ened room. The sufferer was wide awa(e+ and # heard m* name in a hoarse whisper. The blind was three/>uarters down+ but one ra* of sunlight slanted through and struc( the bandaged head of the in=ured man. 1 crimson patch had soa(ed through the white linen compress. # sat beside him and bent m* head. 61ll right+ .atson. -on&t loo( so scared+6 he muttered in a ver* wea( voice. 6#t&s not as bad as it seems.6 6Than( "od for that86 6#&m a bit of a single/stic( e pert. as *ou (now. # too( most of them on m* guard. #t was the second man that was too much for me.6 6.hat can # do+ )olmes< 'f course+ it was that damned fellow who set them on. #&ll go and thrash the hide off him if *ou give the word.6 6"ood old .atson8 :o+ we can do nothing there unless the police la* their hands on the men. But their get/awa* had been well prepared. .e ma* be sure of that. .ait a little. # have m* plans. The first thing is to e aggerate m* in=uries. The*&ll come to *ou for news. Put it on thic(+ .atson. %uc(* if # live the wee( out concussion delirium//what *ou li(e8 ;ou can&t overdo it.6 6But Sir %eslie 'a(shott<6 6'h+ he&s all right. )e shall see the worst side of me. #&ll loo( after that.6 61n*thing else<6

6;es. Tell Shinwell Bohnson to get that girl out of the wa*. Those beauties will be after her now. The* (now+ of course+ that she was with me in the case. #f the* dared to do me in it is not li(el* the* will neglect her. That is urgent. -o it to/ night.6 6#&ll go now. 1n*thing more<6 6Put m* pipe on the table//and the tobacco/slipper. $ight8 Come in each morning and we will plan our campaign.6 # arranged with Bohnson that evening to ta(e Miss .inter to a >uiet suburb and see that she la* low until the danger was past. ,or si da*s the public were under the impression that )olmes was at the door of death. The bulletins were ver* grave and there were sinister paragraphs in the papers. M* continual visits assured me that it was not so bad as that. )is wir* constitution and his determined will were wor(ing wonders. )e was recovering fast+ and # had suspicions at times that he was reall* finding himself faster than he pretended even to me. There was a curious secretive strea( in the man which led to man* dramatic effects+ but left even his closest friend guessing as to what his e act plans might be. )e pushed to an e treme the a iom that the onl* safe plotter was he who plotted alone. # was nearer him than an*one else+ and *et # was alwa*s conscious of the gap between. 'n the seventh da* the stitches were ta(en out+ in spite of which there was a report of er*sipelas in the evening papers. The same evening papers had an announcement which # was bound+ sic( or well+ to carr* to m* friend. #t was simpl* that among the passengers on the Cunard boat $uritania+

starting from %iverpool on ,rida*+ was the Baron 1delbert "runer+ who had some important financial business to settle in the States before his impending wedding to Miss !iolet de Merville+ onl* daughter of+ etc.+ etc. )olmes listened to the news with a cold+ concentrated loo( upon his pale face+ which told me that it hit him hard. 6,rida*86 he cried. 6'nl* three clear da*s. # believe the rascal wants to put himself out of danger&s wa*. But he won&t+ .atson8 B* the %ord )arr*+ he won&t8 :ow+ .atson+ # want *ou to do something for me.6 6# am here to be used+ )olmes.6 6.ell+ then+ spend the ne t twent*/four hours in an intensive stud* of Chinese potter*.6 )e gave no e planations and # as(ed for none. B* long e perience # had learned the wisdom of obedience. But when # had left his room # wal(ed down Ba(er Street+ revolving in m* head how on earth # was to carr* out so strange an order. ,inall* # drove to the %ondon %ibrar* in St. Bames&s S>uare+ put the matter to m* friend %oma + the sublibrarian+ and departed to m* rooms with a goodl* volume under m* arm. #t is said that the barrister who crams up a case with such care that he can e amine an e pert witness upon the Monda* has forgotten all his forced (nowledge before the Saturda*. Certainl* # should not li(e now to pose as an authorit* upon ceramics. 1nd *et all that evening+ and all that night with a short interval for rest+ and all ne t morning+ # was suc(ing in (nowledge and committing names to memor*. There # learned of the hall/mar(s of the great artist/ decorators+ of the m*ster* of c*clical dates+ the mar(s of the

)ung/wu and the beauties of the ;ung/lo+ the writings of Tang/*ing+ and the glories of the primitive period of the Sung and the ;uan. # was charged with all this information when # called upon )olmes ne t evening. )e was out of bed now+ though *ou would not have guessed it from the published reports+ and he sat with his much/bandaged head resting upon his hand in the depth of his favourite armchair. 6.h*+ )olmes+6 # said+ 6if one believed the papers+ *ou are d*ing.6 6That+6 said he+ 6is the ver* impression which # intended to conve*. 1nd now+ .atson+ have *ou learned *our lessons<6 61t least # have tried to.6 6"ood. ;ou could (eep up an intelligent conversation on the sub=ect<6 6# believe # could.6 6Then hand me that little bo from the mantelpiece.6 )e opened the lid and too( out a small ob=ect most carefull* wrapped in some fine 7astern sil(. This he unfolded+ and disclosed a delicate little saucer of the most beautiful deep/ blue colour. 6#t needs careful handling+ .atson. This is the real egg/shell potter* of the Ming d*nast*. :o finer piece ever passed through Christie&s. 1 complete set of this would be worth a (ing&s ransom//in fact+ it is doubtful if there is a complete set outside the imperial palace of Pe(ing. The sight of this would drive a real connoisseur wild.6 6.hat am # to do with it<6

)olmes handed me a card upon which was printed@ 6-r. )ill Barton+ 3?5 )alf Moon Street.6 6That is *our name for the evening+ .atson. ;ou will call upon Baron "runer. # (now something of his habits+ and at half/past eight he would probabl* be disengaged. 1 note will tell him in advance that *ou are about to call+ and *ou will sa* that *ou are bringing him a specimen of an absolutel* uni>ue set of Ming china. ;ou ma* as well be a medical man+ since that is a part which *ou can pla* without duplicit*. ;ou are a collector this set has come *our wa*+ *ou have heard of the Baron&s interest in the sub=ect+ and *ou are not averse to selling at a price.6 6.hat price<6 6.ell as(ed+ .atson. ;ou would certainl* fall down badl* if *ou did not (now the value of *our own wares. This saucer was got for me b* Sir Bames+ and comes+ # understand+ from the collection of his client. ;ou will not e aggerate if *ou sa* that it could hardl* be matched in the world.6 6# could perhaps suggest that the set should be valued b* an e pert.6 67 cellent+ .atson8 ;ou scintillate to/da*. Suggest Christie or Sotheb*. ;our delicac* prevents *our putting a price for *ourself.6 6But if he won&t see me<6 6'h+ *es+ he will see *ou. )e has the collection mania in its most acute form//and especiall* on this sub=ect+ on which he is an ac(nowledged authorit*. Sit down+ .atson+ and # will dictate the letter. :o answer needed. ;ou will merel* sa* that *ou are coming+ and wh*.6

#t was an admirable document+ short+ courteous+ and stimulating to the curiosit* of the connoisseur. 1 district messenger was dul* dispatched with it. 'n the same evening+ with the precious saucer in m* hand and the card of -r. )ill Barton in m* poc(et+ # set off on m* own adventure. The beautiful house and grounds indicated that Baron "runer was+ as Sir Bames had said+ a man of considerable wealth. 1 long winding drive+ with ban(s of rare shrubs on either side+ opened out into a great gravelled s>uare adorned with statues. The place had been built b* a South 1frican gold (ing in the da*s of the great boom+ and the long+ low house with the turrets at the corners+ though an architectural nightmare+ was imposing in its size and solidit*. 1 butler+ who would have adorned a bench of bishops+ showed me in and handed me over to a plush/clad footman+ who ushered me into the Baron&s presence. )e was standing at the open front of a great case which stood between the windows and which contained part of his Chinese collection. )e turned as # entered with a small brown vase in his hand. 6Pra* sit down+ -octor+6 said he. 6# was loo(ing over m* own treasures and wondering whether # could reall* afford to add to them. This little Tang specimen+ which dates from the seventh centur*+ would probabl* interest *ou. # am sure *ou never saw finer wor(manship or a richer glaze. )ave *ou the Ming saucer with *ou of which *ou spo(e<6 # carefull* unpac(ed it and handed it to him. )e seated himself at his des(+ pulled over the lamp+ for it was growing dar(+ and set himself to e amine it. 1s he did so the *ellow light beat upon his own features+ and # was able to stud* them at m* ease.

)e was certainl* a remar(abl* handsome man. )is 7uropean reputation for beaut* was full* deserved. #n figure he was not more than of middle size+ but was built upon graceful and active lines. )is face was swarth*+ almost 'riental+ with large+ dar(+ languorous e*es which might easil* hold an irresistible fascination for women. )is hair and moustache were raven blac(+ the latter short+ pointed+ and carefull* wa ed. )is features were regular and pleasing+ save onl* his straight+ thin/lipped mouth. #f ever # saw a murderer&s mouth it was there//a cruel+ hard gash in the face+ compressed+ ine orable+ and terrible. )e was ill/ advised to train his moustache awa* from it+ for it was :ature&s danger/signal+ set as a warning to his victims. )is voice was engaging and his manners perfect. #n age # should have put him at little over thirt*+ though his record afterwards showed that he was fort*/two. 6!er* fine//ver* fine indeed86 he said at last. 61nd *ou sa* *ou have a set of si to correspond. .hat puzzles me is that # should not have heard of such magnificent specimens. # onl* (now of one in 7ngland to match this+ and it is certainl* not li(el* to be in the mar(et. .ould it be indiscreet if # were to as( *ou+ -r. )ill Barton+ how *ou obtained this<6 6-oes it reall* matter<6 # as(ed with as careless an air as # could muster. 6;ou can see that the piece is genuine+ and+ as to the value+ # am content to ta(e an e pert&s valuation.6 6!er* m*sterious+6 said he with a >uic(+ suspicious flash of his dar( e*es. 6#n dealing with ob=ects of such value+ one naturall* wishes to (now all about the transaction. That the piece is genuine is certain. # have no doubts at all about that. But suppose//# am bound to ta(e ever* possibilit* into

account//that it should prove afterwards that *ou had no right to sell<6 6# would guarantee *ou against an* claim of the son.6 6That+ of course+ would open up the >uestion as to what *our guarantee was worth.6 6M* ban(ers would answer that.6 6Guite so. 1nd *et the whole transaction stri(es me as rather unusual.6 6;ou can do business or not+6 said # with indifference. 6# have given *ou the first offer as # understood that *ou were a connoisseur+ but # shall have no difficult* in other >uaerers.6 6.ho told *ou # was a connoisseur<6 6# was aware that *ou had written a boo( upon the sub=ect.6 6)ave *ou read the boo(<6 6:o.6 6-ear me+ this becomes more and more difficult for me to understand8 ;ou are a connoisseur and collector with a ver* valuable piece in *our collection+ and *et *ou have never troubled to consult the one boo( which would have told *ou of the real meaning and value of what *ou held. )ow do *ou e plain that<6 6# am a ver* bus* man. # am a doctor in practice.6 6That is no answer. #f a man has a hobb* he follows it up+ whatever his other pursuits ma* be. ;ou said in *our note

that *ou were a connoisseur.6 6So # am.6 6Might # as( *ou a few >uestions to test *ou< # am obliged to tell *ou+ -octor//if *ou are indeed a doctor//that the incident becomes more and more suspicious. # would as( *ou what do *ou (now of the 7mperor Shomu and how do *ou associate him with the Shoso/in near :ara< -ear me+ does that puzzle *ou< Tell me a little about the :onhern .ei d*nast* and its place in the histor* of ceramics.6 # sprang from m* chair in simulated anger. 6This is intolerable+ sir+6 said #. 6# came here to do *ou a favour+ and not to be e amined as if # were a schoolbo*. M* (nowledge on these sub=ects ma* be second onl* to *our own+ but # certainl* shall not answer >uestions which have been put in so offensive a wa*.6 )e loo(ed at me steadil*. The languor had gone from his e*es. The* suddenl* glared. There was a gleam of teeth from between those cruel lips. 6.hat is the game< ;ou are here as a sp*. ;ou are an emissar* of )olmes. This is a tric( that *ou are pla*ing upon me. The fellow is d*ing # hear+ so he sends his tools to (eep watch upon me. ;ou&ve made *our wa* in here without leave+ and+ b* "od8 *ou ma* find it harder to get out than to get in.6 )e had sprung to his feet+ and # stepped bac(+ bracing m*self for an attac(+ for the man was beside himself with rage. )e ma* have suspected me from the first0 certainl* this cross/e amination had shown him the truth0 but it was clear that # could not hope to deceive him. )e dived his hand into

a side/drawer and rummaged furiousl*. Then something struc( upon his ear+ for he stood listening intentl*. 61h86 he cried. 61h86 and dashed into the room behind him. Two steps too( me to the open door+ and m* mind will ever carr* a clear picture of the scene within. The window leading out to the garden was wide open. Beside it+ loo(ing li(e some terrible ghost+ his head gin with blood* bandages+ his face drawn and white+ stood Sherloc( )olmes. The ne t instant he was through the gap+ and # heard the crash of his bod* among the laurel bushes outside. .ith a howl of rage the master of the house rushed after him to the open window. 1nd then8 #t was done in an instant+ and *et # clearl* saw it. 1n arm //a woman&s arm//shot out from among the leaves. 1t the same instant the Baron uttered a horrible cr*//a *ell which will alwa*s ring in m* memor*. )e clapped his two hands to his face and rushed round the room+ beating his head horribl* against the walls. Then he fell upon the carpet+ rolling and writhing+ while scream after scream resounded through the house. 6.ater8 ,or "od&s sa(e+ water86 was his cr*. # seized a carafe from a side/table and rushed to his aid. 1t the same moment the butler and several footmen ran in from the hall. # remember that one of them fainted as # (nelt b* the in=ured man and turned that awful face to the light of the lamp. The vitriol was eating into it ever*where and dripping from the ears and the chin. 'ne e*e was alread* white and glazed. The other was red and inflamed. The features which # had admired a few minutes before were now li(e some beautiful painting over which the artist has passed a wet and

foul sponge. The* were blurred+ discoloured+ inhuman+ terrible. #n a few words # e plained e actl* what had occurred+ so far as the vitriol attac( was concerned. Some had climbed through the window and others had rushed out on to the lawn+ but it was dar( and it had begun to rain. Between his screams the victim raged and raved against the avenger. 6#t was that hell/cat+ Citt* .inter86 he cried. 6'h+ the she/devil8 She shall pa* for it8 She shall pa*8 'h+ "od in heaven+ this pain is more than # can bear86 # bathed his face in oil+ put cotton wadding on the raw surfaces+ and administered a h*podermic of morphia. 1ll suspicion of me had passed from his mind in the presence of this shoc(+ and he clung to m* hands as if # might have the power even *et to clear those dead/fish e*es which glazed up at me. # could have wept over the ruin had l not remembered ver* clearl* the vile life which had led up to so hideous a change. #t was loathsome to feel the pawing of his burning hands+ and # was relieved when his famil* surgeon+ closel* followed b* a specialist+ came to relieve me of m* charge. 1n inspector of police had also arrived+ and to him # handed m* real card. #t would have been useless as well as foolish to do otherwise+ for # was nearl* as well (nown b* sight at the ;ard as )olmes himself. Then # left that house of gloom and terror. .ithin an hour # was at Ba(er Street. )olmes was seated in his familiar chair+ loo(ing ver* pale and e hausted. 1part from his in=uries+ even his iron nerves had been shoc(ed b* the events of the evening+ and he listened with horror to m* account of the Baron&s transformation. 6The wages of sin+ .atson//the wages of sin86 said he.

6Sooner or later it will alwa*s come. "od (nows+ there was sin enough+6 he added+ ta(ing up a brown volume from the table. 6)ere is the boo( the woman tal(ed of. #f this will not brea( off the marriage+ nothing ever could. But it will+ .atson. #t must. :o self/respecting woman could stand it.6 6#t is his love diar*<6 6'r his lust diar*. Call it what *ou will. The moment the woman told us of it # realized what a tremendous weapon was there if we could but la* our hands on it. # said nothing at the time to indicate m* thoughts+ for this woman might have given it awa*. But # brooded over it. Then this assault upon me gave me the chance of letting the Baron thin( that no precautions need be ta(en against me. That was all to the good. # would have waited a little longer+ but his visit to 1merica forced m* hand. )e would never have left so compromising a document behind him. Therefore we had to act at once. Burglar* at night is impossible. )e ta(es precautions. But there was a chance in the evening if # could onl* be sure that his attention was engaged. That was where *ou and *our blue saucer came in. But # had to be sure of the position of the boo(+ and # (new # had onl* a few minutes in which to act+ for m* time was limited b* *our (nowledge of Chinese potter*. Therefore # gathered the girl up at the last moment. )ow could # guess what the little pac(et was that she carried so carefull* under her cloa(< # thought she had come altogether on m* business+ but it seems she had some of her own.6 6)e guessed # came from *ou.6 6# feared he would. But *ou held him in pla* =ust long enough for me to get the boo(+ though not long enough for an unobserved escape. 1h+ Sir Bames+ # am ver* glad *ou have

come86 'ur courtl* friend had appeared in answer to a previous summons. )e listened with the deepest attention to )olmes&s account of what had occurred. 6;ou have done wonders//wonders86 he cried when he had heard the narrative. 6But if these in=uries are as terrible as -r. .atson describes+ then surel* our purpose of thwarting the marriage is sufficientl* gained without the use of this horrible boo(.6 )olmes shoo( his head. 6.omen of the -e Merville t*pe do not act li(e that. She would love him the more as a disfigured mart*r. :o+ no. #t is his moral side+ not his ph*sical+ which we have to destro*. That boo( will bring her bac( to earth//and # (now nothing else that could. #t is in his own writing. She cannot get past it.6 Sir Bames carried awa* both it and the precious saucer. 1s # was m*self overdue+ # went down with him into the street. 1 brougham was waiting for him. )e sprang in+ gave a hurried order to the coc(aded coachman+ and drove swiftl* awa*. )e flung his overcoat half out of the window to cover the armorial bearings upon the panel+ but # had seen them in the glare of our fanlight none the less. # gasped with surprise. Then # turned bac( and ascended the stair to )olmes&s room. 6# have found out who our client is+6 # cried+ bursting with m* great news. 6.h*+ )olmes+ it is//6 6#t is a lo*al friend and a chivalrous gentleman+6 said )olmes+ holding up a restraining hand. 6%et that now and

forever be enough for us.6 # do not (now how the incriminating boo( was used. Sir Bames ma* have managed it. 'r it is more probable that so delicate a tas( was entrusted to the *oung lad*&s father. The effect+ at an* rate+ was all that could be desired. Three da*s later appeared a paragraph in the Morning Post to sa* that the marriage between Baron 1delbert "runer and Miss !iolet de Merville would not ta(e place. The same paper had the first police/court hearing of the proceedings against Miss Citt* .inter on the grave charge of vitriol/ throwing. Such e tenuating circumstances came out in the trial that the sentence+ as will be remembered was the lowest that was possible for such an offence. Sherloc( )olmes was threatened with a prosecution for burglar*+ but when an ob=ect is good and a client is sufficientl* illustrious+ even the rigid British law becomes human and elastic. M* friend has not *et stood in the doc(.

AD$"!T%#" $&&' TH" AD$"!T%#" )*A!CH"D S *D&"#

F TH"

The ideas of m* friend .atson+ though limited+ are e ceedingl* pertinacious. ,or a long time he has worried me to write an e perience of m* own. Perhaps # have rather invited this persecution+ since # have often had occasion to point out to him how superficial are his own accounts and to accuse him of pandering to popular taste instead of confining himself rigidl* to facts and figures. 6Tr* it *ourself+ )olmes86 he has retorted+ and # am compelled to admit that+ having ta(en m* pen in m* hand+ # do begin to realize that the matter must be presented in such a wa* as ma* interest the reader. The following case can hardl* fail to do so+ as it is

among the strangest happenings in m* collection though it chanced that .atson had no note of it in his collection. Spea(ing of m* old friend and biographer+ # would ta(e this opportunit* to remar( that if # burden m*self with a companion in m* various little in>uiries it is not done out of sentiment or caprice+ but it is that .atson has some remar(able characteristics of his own to which in his modest* he has given small attention amid his e aggerated estimates of m* own performances. 1 confederate who foresees *our conclusions and course of action is alwa*s dangerous+ but one to whom each development comes as a perpetual surprise+ and to whom the future is alwa*s a closed boo(+ is indeed an ideal helpmate. # find from m* noteboo( that it was in Banuar*+ 25D3+ =ust after the conclusion of the Boer .ar+ that # had m* visit from Mr. Bames M. -odd+ a big+ fresh+ sunburned+ upstanding Briton. The good .atson had at that time deserted me for a wife+ the onl* selfish action which # can recall in our association. # was alone. #t is m* habit to sit with m* bac( to the window and to place m* visitors in the opposite chair+ where the light falls full upon them. Mr. Bames M. -odd seemed somewhat at a loss how to begin the interview. # did not attempt to help him+ for his silence gave me more time for observation. # have found it wise to impress clients with a sense of power+ and so # gave him some of m* conclusions. 6,rom South 1frica+ sir+ # perceive.6 6;es+ sir+6 he answered+ with some surprise. 6#mperial ;eomanr*+ # fanc*.6

67 actl*.6 6Middlese Corps+ no doubt.6 6That is so. Mr. )olmes+ *ou are a wizard.6 # smiled at his bewildered e pression. 6.hen a gentleman of virile appearance enters m* room with such tan upon his face as an 7nglish sun could never give+ and with his hand(erchief in his sleeve instead of in his poc(et+ it is not difficult to place him. ;ou wear a short beard+ which shows that *ou were not a regular. ;ou have the cut of a riding/man. 1s to Middlese + *our card has alread* shown me that *ou are a stoc(bro(er from Throgmorton Street. .hat other regiment would *ou =oin<6 6;ou see ever*thing.6 6# see no more than *ou+ but # have trained m*self to notice what # see. )owever+ Mr. -odd+ it was not to discuss the science of observation that *ou called upon me this morning. .hat has been happening at Tu bur* 'ld Par(<6 6Mr. )olmes//86 6M* dear sir+ there is no m*ster*. ;our letter came with that heading+ and as *ou fi ed this appointment in ver* pressing terms it was clear that something sudden and important had occurred.6 6;es+ indeed. But the letter was written in the afternoon+ and a good deal has happened since then. #f Colonel 7msworth had not (ic(ed me out //6 6Cic(ed *ou out86

6.ell+ that was what it amounted to. )e is a hard nail+ is Colonel 7msworth. The greatest martinet in the 1rm* in his da*+ and it was a da* of rough language+ too. # couldn&t have stuc( the colonel if it had not been for "odfre*&s sa(e.6 # lit m* pipe and leaned bac( in m* chair. 6Perhaps *ou will e plain what *ou are tal(ing about.6 M* client grinned mischievousl*. 6# had got into the wa* of supposing that *ou (new ever*thing without being told+6 said he. 6But # will give *ou the facts+ and # hope to "od that *ou will be able to tell me what the* mean. #&ve been awa(e all night puzzling m* brain+ and the more # thin( the more incredible does it become. 6.hen # =oined up in Banuar*+ 25D2//=ust two *ears ago// *oung "odfre* 7msworth had =oined the same s>uadron. )e was Colonel 7msworth&s onl* son//7msworth the Crimean !. C.//and he had the fighting blood in him+ so it is no wonder he volunteered. There was not a finer lad in the regiment. .e formed a friendship//the sort of friendship which can onl* be made when one lives the same life and shares the same =o*s and sorrows. )e was m* mate//and that means a good deal in the 1rm*. .e too( the rough and the smooth together for a *ear of hard fighting. Then he was hit with a bullet from an elephant gun in the action near -iamond )ill outside/Pretoria. # got one letter from the hospital at Cape Town and one from Southampton. Since then not a word// not one word+ Mr. )olmes+ for si months and more+ and he m* closest pal. 6.ell+ when the war was over+ and we all got bac(+ # wrote to his father and as(ed where "odfre* was. :o answer. #

waited a bit and then # wrote again. This time # had a repl*+ short and gruff. "odfre* had gone on a vo*age round the world+ and it was not li(el* that he would be bac( for a *ear. That was all. 6# wasn&t satisfied+ Mr. )olmes. The whole thing seemed to me so damned unnatural. )e was a good lad+ and he would not drop a pal li(e that. #t was not li(e him. Then+ again+ # happened to (now that he was heir to a lot of mone*+ and also that his father and he did not alwa*s hit it off too well. The old man was sometimes a bull*+ and *oung "odfre* had too much spirit to stand it. :o+ # wasn&t satisfied+ and # determined that # would get to the root of the matter. #t happened+ however+ that m* own affairs needed a lot of straightening out+ after two *ears& absence+ and so it is onl* this wee( that # have been able to ta(e up "odfre*&s case again. But since # have ta(en it up # mean to drop ever*thing in order to see it through.6 Mr. Bames M. -odd appeared to be the sort of person whom it would be better to have as a friend than as an enem*. )is blue e*es were stern and his s>uare =aw had set hard as he spo(e. 6.ell+ what have *ou done<6 # as(ed. 6M* first move was to get down to his home+ Tu bur* 'ld Par(+ near Bedford+ and to see for m*self how the ground la*. # wrote to the mother+ therefore//# had had >uite enough of the curmudgeon of a father//and # made a clean frontal attac(@ "odfre* was m* chum+ # had a great deal of interest which # might tell her of our common e periences+ # should be in the neighbourhood+ would there be an* ob=ection+ et cetera< #n repl* # had >uite an amiable answer from her and an offer to put me up for the night. That was what too( me

down on Monda*. 6Tu bur* 'ld )all is inaccessible//five miles from an*where. There was no trap at the station+ so # had to wal(+ carr*ing m* suitcase+ and it was nearl* dar( before # arrived. #t is a great wandering house+ standing in a considerable par(. # should =udge it was of all sorts of ages and st*les+ starting on a half/timbered 7lizabethan foundation and ending in a !ictorian portico. #nside it was all panelling and tapestr* and half/effaced old pictures+ a house of shadows and m*ster*. There was a butler+ old $alph+ who seemed about the same age as the house+ and there was his wife+ who might have been older. She had been "odfre*&s nurse+ and # had heard him spea( of her as second onl* to his mother in his affections+ so # was drawn to her in spite of her >ueer appearance. The mother # li(ed also//a gentle little white mouse of a woman. #t was onl* the colonel himself whom # barred. 6.e had a bit of barne* right awa*+ and # should have wal(ed bac( to the station if # had not felt that it might be pla*ing his game for me to do so. # was shown straight into his stud*+ and there # found him+ a huge+ bow/bac(ed man with a smo(* s(in and a straggling gra* beard+ seated behind his littered des(. 1 red/veined nose =utted out li(e a vulture&s bea(+ and two fierce gra* e*es glared at me from under tufted brows. # could understand now wh* "odfre* seldom spo(e of his father. 6&.ell+ sir+& said he in a rasping voice+ &# should be interested to (now the real reasons for this visit.& 6# answered that # had e plained them in m* letter to his wife. 6&;es+ *es+ *ou said that *ou had (nown "odfre* in 1frica.

.e have+ of course+ onl* *our word for that.& 6&# have his letters to me in m* poc(et.& 6&Cindl* let me see them.& 6)e glanced at the two which # handed him+ and then he tossed them bac(. 6&.ell+ what then<& he as(ed. 6&# was fond of *our son "odfre*+ sir. Man* ties and memories united us. #s it not natural that # should wonder at his sudden silence and should wish to (now what has become of him<& 6&# have some recollections+ sir+ that # had alread* corresponded with *ou and had told *ou what had become of him. )e has gone upon a vo*age round the world. )is health was in a poor wa* after his 1frican e periences+ and both his mother and # were of opinion that camplete rest and change were needed. Cindl* pass that e planation on to an* other friends who ma* be interested in the matter.& 6&Certainl*+& # answered. &But perhaps *ou would have the goodness to let me have the name of the steamer and of the line b* which he sailed+ together with the date. # have no doubt that # should be able to get a letter through to him.& 6M* re>uest seemed both to puzzle and to irritate m* host. )is great e*ebrows came down over his e*es+ and he tapped his fingers impatientl* on the table. )e loo(ed up at last with the e pression of one who has seen his adversar* ma(e a dangerous move at chess+ and has decided how to meet it.

6&Man* people+ Mr. -odd+& said he+ &would ta(e offence at *our infernal pertinacit* and would thin( that this insistence had reached the point of damned impertinence.& 6&;ou must put it down+ sir+ to m* real love for *our son.& 6&7 actl*. # have alread* made ever* allowance upon that score. # must as( *ou+ however+ to drop these in>uiries. 7ver* famil* has its own inner (nowledge and its own motives+ which cannot alwa*s be made clear to outsiders+ however well/intentioned. M* wife is an ious to hear something of "odfre*&s past which *ou are in a position to tell her+ but # would as( *ou to let the present and the future alone. Such in>uiries serve no useful purpose+ sir+ and place us in a delicate and difficult position.& 6So # came to a dead end+ Mr. )olmes. There was no getting past it. # could onl* pretend to accept the situation and register a vow inwardl* that # would never rest until m* friend&s fate had been cleared up. #t was a dull evening. .e dined >uietl*+ the three of us+ in a gloom*+ faded old room. The lad* >uestioned me eagerl* about her son+ but the old man seemed morose and depressed. # was so bored b* the whole proceeding that # made an e cuse as soon as # decentl* could and retired to m* bedroom. #t was a large+ bare room on the ground floor+ as gloom* as the rest of the house+ but after a *ear of sleeping upon the veldt+ Mr. )olmes+ one is not too particular about one&s >uarters. # opened the curtains and loo(ed out into the garden+ remar(ing that it was a fine night with a bright half/moon. Then # sat down b* the roaring fire with the lamp on a table beside me+ and endeavoured to distract m* mind with a novel. # was interrupted+ however+ b* $alph+ the old butler+ who came in with a fresh suppl* of coals.

6&# thought *ou might run short in the night/time+ sir. #t is bitter weather and these rooms are cold.& 6)e hesitated before leaving the room+ and when # loo(ed round he was standing facing me with a wistful loo( upon his wrin(led face. 6&Beg *our pardon+ sir+ but # could not help hearing what *ou said of *oung Master "odfre* at dinner. ;ou (now+ sir+ that m* wife nursed him+ and so # ma* sa* # am his foster/father. #t&s natural we should ta(e an interest. 1nd *ou sa* he carried himself well+ sir<& 6&There was no braver man in the regiment. )e pulled me out once from under the rifles of the Boers+ or ma*be # should not be here.& 6The old butler rubbed his s(inn* hands. 6&;es+ sir+ *es+ that is Master "odfre* all over. )e was alwa*s courageous. There&s not a tree in the par(+ sir+ that he has not climbed. :othing would stop him. )e was a fine bo*//and oh+ sir+ he was a fine man.& 6# sprang to m* feet. 6&%oo( here8& # cried. &;ou sa* he was. ;ou spea( as if he were dead. .hat is all this m*ster*< .hat has become of "odfre* 7msworth<& 6# gripped the old man b* the shoulder+ but he shran( awa*. 6&# don&t (now what *ou mean+ sir. 1s( the master about Master "odfre*. )e (nows. #t is not for me to interfere.& 6)e was leaving the room+ but # held his arm

6&%isten+& # said. &;ou are going to answer one >uestion before *ou leave if # have to hold *ou all night. #s "odfre* dead<6 6)e could not face m* e*es. )e was li(e a man h*pnotized The answer was dragged from his lips. #t was a terrible and une pected one. 6&# wish to "od he was8& he cried+ and+ tearing himself free he dashed from the room. 6;ou will thin(+ Mr. )olmes+ that # returned to m* chair in no ver* happ* state of mind. The old man&s words seemed to me to bear onl* one interpretation. Clearl* m* poor friend had become involved in some criminal or+ at the least+ disreputable transaction which touched the famil* honour. That stern old man had sent his son awa* and hidden him from the world lest some scandal should come to light. "odfre* was a rec(less fellow. )e was easil* influenced b* those around him. :o doubt he had fallen into bad hands and been misled to his ruin. #t was a piteous business+ if it was indeed so+ but even now it was m* dut* to hunt him out and see if # could aid him. # was an iousl* pondering the matter when # loo(ed up+ and there was "odfre* 7msworth standing before me.6 M* client had paused as one in deep emotion. 6Pra* continue+6 # said. 6;our problem presents some ver* unusual features.6 6)e was outside the window+ Mr. )olmes+ with his face pressed against the glass. # have told *ou that # loo(ed out at the night. .hen # did so # left the curtains partl* open. )is figure was framed in this gap. The window came down to the

ground and # could see the whole length of it+ but it was his face which held m* gaze. )e was deadl* pale//never have # seen a man so white. # rec(on ghosts ma* loo( li(e that0 but his e*es met mine+ and the* were the e*es of a living man. )e sprang bac( when he saw that # was loo(ing at him+ and he vanished into the dar(ness. 6There was something shoc(ing about the man+ Mr. )olmes. #t wasn&t merel* that ghastl* face glimmering as white as cheese in the dar(ness. #t was more subtle than that// something slin(ing+ something furtive+ something guilt*// something ver* unli(e the fran(+ manl* lad that # had (nown. #t left a feeling of horror in m* mind. 6But when a man has been soldiering for a *ear or two with brother Boer as a pla*mate+ he (eeps his nerve and acts >uic(l*. "odfre* had hardl* vanished before # was at the window. There was an aw(ward catch+ and # was some little time before # could throw it up. Then # nipped through and ran down the garden path in the direction that # thought he might have ta(en. 6#t was a long path and the light was not ver* good+ but it seemed to me something was moving ahead of me. # ran on and called his name+ but it was no use. .hen # got to the end of the path there were several others branching in different directions to various outhouses. # stood hesitating+ and as # did so # heard distinctl* the sound of a closing door. #t was not behind me in the house+ but ahead of me+ somewhere in the dar(ness. That was enough+ Mr. )olmes+ to assure me that what # had seen was not a vision. "odfre* had run awa* from me+ and he had shut a door behind him. 'f that # was certain. 6There was nothing more # could do+ and # spent an uneas*

night turning the matter over in m* mind and tr*ing to find some theor* which would cover the facts. :e t da* # found the colonel rather more conciliator*+ and as his wife remar(ed that there were some places of interest in the neighbourhood+ it gave me an opening to as( whether m* presence for one more night would incommode them. 1 somewhat grudging ac>uiescence from the old man gave me a clear da* in which to ma(e m* observations. # was alread* perfectl* convinced that "odfre* was in hiding somewhere near+ but where and wh* remained to be solved. 6The house was so large and so rambling that a regiment might be hid awa* in it and no one the wiser. #f the secret la* there it was difficult for me to penetrate it. But the door which # had heard close was certainl* not in the house. # must e plore the garden and see what # could find. There was no difficult* in the wa*+ for the old people were bus* in their own fashion and left me to m* own devices. 6There were several small outhouses+ but at the end of the garden there was a detached building of some size//large enough for a gardener&s or a game(eeper&s residence. Could this be the place whence the sound of that shutting door had come< # approached it in a careless fashion as though # were strolling aimlessl* round the grounds. 1s # did so+ a small+ bris(+ bearded man in a blac( coat and bowler hat//not at all the gardener t*pe//came out of the door. To m* surprise+ he loc(ed it after him and put the (e* in his poc(et. Then he loo(ed at me with some surprise on his face. 6&1re *ou a visitor here<& he as(ed. 6# e plained that # was and that # was a friend of "odfre*&s. 6&.hat a pit* that he should be awa* on his travels+ for he

would have so li(ed to see me+& # continued. 6&Guite so. 7 actl*+& said he with a rather guilt* air. &:o doubt *ou will renew *our visit at some more propitious time.& )e passed on+ but when # turned # observed that he was standing watching me+ half/concealed b* the laurels at the far end of the garden. 6# had a good loo( at the little house as # passed it+ but the windows were heavil* curtained+ and+ so far as one could see+ it was empt*. # might spoil m* own game and even be ordered off the premises if # were too audacious+ for # was still conscious that # was being watched. Therefore+ # strolled bac( to the house and waited for night before # went on with m* in>uir*. .hen all was dar( and >uiet # slipped out of m* window and made m* wa* as silentl* as possible to the m*sterious lodge. 6# have said that it was heavil* curtained+ but now # found that the windows were shuttered as well. Some light+ however+ was brea(ing through one of them+ so # concentrated m* attention upon this. # was in luc(+ for the curtain had not been >uite closed+ and there was a crac( in the shutter+ so that # could see the inside of the room. #t was a cheer* place enough+ a bright lamp and a blazing fire. 'pposite to me was seated the little man whom # had seen in the morning. )e was smo(ing a pipe and reading a paper.6 6.hat paper<6 # as(ed. M* client seemed anno*ed at the interruption of his narrative. 6Can it matter<6 he as(ed.

6#t is most essential.6 6# reall* too( no notice.6 6Possibl* *ou observed whether it was a broad/leafed paper or of that smaller t*pe which one associates with wee(lies.6 6:ow that *ou mention it+ it was not large. #t might have been the Spectator. )owever+ # had little thought to spare upon such details+ for a second man was seated with his bac( to the window+ and # could swear that this second man was "odfre*. # could not see his face+ but # (new the familiar slope of his shoulders. )e was leaning upon his elbow in an attitude of great melanchol*+ his bod* turned towards the fire. # was hesitating as to what # should do when there was a sharp tap on m* shoulder+ and there was Colonel 7msworth beside me. 6&This wa*+ sir8& said he in a low voice. )e wal(ed in silence to the house+ and # followed him into m* own bedroom. )e had pic(ed up a time/table in the hall. 6 There is a train to %ondon at 3@3D+& said he. &The trap will be at the door at eight.& 6)e was white with rage+ and+ indeed+ # felt m*self in so difficult a position that # could onl* stammer out a few incoherent apologies in which # tried to e cuse m*self b* urging m* an iet* for m* friend. 6&The matter will not bear discussion+& said he abruptl*. &;ou have made a most damnable intrusion into the privac* of our famil*. ;ou were here as a guest and *ou have become a sp*. # have nothing more to sa*+ sir+ save that # have no wish ever to see *ou again.&

61t this # lost m* temper+ Mr. )olmes+ and # spo(e with some warmth. 6&# have seen *our son+ and # am convinced that for some reason of *our own *ou are concealing him from the world. # have no idea what *our motives are in cutting him off in this fashion+ but # am sure that he is no longer a free agent. # warn *ou+ Colonel 7msworth+ that until # am assured as to the safet* and well/being of m* friend # shall never desist in m* efforts to get to the bottom of the m*ster*+ and # shall certainl* not allow m*self to be intimidated b* an*thing which *ou ma* sa* or do.& 6The old fellow loo(ed diabolical+ and # reall* thought he was about to attac( me. # have said that he was a gaunt+ fierce old giant+ and though # am no wea(ling # might have been hard put to it to hold m* own against him. )owever+ after a long glare of rage he turned upon his heel and wal(ed out of the room. ,or m* part+ # too( the appointed train in the morning+ with the full intention of coming straight to *ou and as(ing for *our advice and assistance at the appointment for which # had alread* written.6 Such was the problem which m* visitor laid before me. #t presented+ as the astute reader will have alread* perceived+ few difficulties in its solution+ for a ver* limited choice of alternatives must get to the root of the matter. Still+ elementar* as it was+ there were points of interest and novelt* about it which ma* e cuse m* placing it upon record. # now proceeded+ using m* familiar method of logical anal*sis+ to narrow down the possible solutions. 6The servants+6 # as(ed0 6how man* were in the house<6 6To the best of m* belief there were onl* the old butler and

his wife. The* seemed to live in the simplest fashion.6 6There was no servant+ then+ in the detached house<6 6:one+ unless the little man with the beard acted as such. )e seemed+ however+ to be >uite a superior person.6 6That seems ver* suggestive. )ad *ou an* indication that food was conve*ed from the one house to the other<6 6:ow that *ou mention it+ # did see old $alph carr*ing a bas(et down the garden wal( and going in the direction of this house. The idea of food did not occur to me at the moment.6 6-id *ou ma(e an* local in>uiries<6 6;es+ # did. # spo(e to the station/master and also to the inn(eeper in the village. # simpl* as(ed if the* (new an*thing of m* old comrade+ "odfre* 7msworth. Both of them assured me that he had gone for a vo*age round the world. )e had come home and then had almost at once started off again. The stor* was evidentl* universall* accepted.6 6;ou said nothing of *our suspicions<6 6:othing.6 6That was ver* wise. The matter should certainl* be in>uired into. # will go bac( with *ou to Tu bur* 'ld Par(.6 6To/da*<6 #t happened that at the moment # was clearing up the case which m* friend .atson has described as that of the 1bbe* School+ in which the -u(e of "re*minster was so deepl*

involved. # had also a commission from the Sultan of Tur(e* which called for immediate action+ as political conse>uences of the gravest (ind might arise from its neglect. Therefore it was not until the beginning of the ne t wee(+ as m* diar* records+ that # was able to start forth on m* mission to Bedfordshire in compan* with Mr. Bames M. -odd. 1s we drove to 7ustonn we pic(ed up a grave and tacitum gentleman of iron/gra* aspect+ with whom # had made the necessar* arrangements. 6This is an old friend+6 said # to -odd. 6#t is possible that his presence ma* be entirel* unnecessar*+ and+ on the other hand+ it ma* be essential. #t is not necessar* at the present stage to go further into the matter.6 The narratives of .atson have accustomed the reader+ no doubt+ to the fact that # do not waste words or disclose m* thoughts while a case is actuall* under consideration. -odd seemed surprised+ but nothing more was said+ and the three of us continued our =ourne* together. #n the train # as(ed -odd one more >uestion which # wished our companion to hear. 6;ou sa* that *ou saw *our friend&s face >uite clearl* at the window+ so clearl* that *ou are sure of his identit*<6 6# have no doubt about it whatever. )is nose was pressed against the glass. The lamplight shone full upon him.6 6#t could not have been someone resembling him<6 6:o+ no+ it was he.6 6But *ou sa* he was changed<6 6'nl* in colour. )is face was//how shall # describe it<//it was

of a fish/bell* whiteness. #t was bleached.6 6.as it e>uall* pale all over<6 6# thin( not. #t was his brow which # saw so clearl* as it was pressed against the window.6 6-id *ou call to him<6 6# was too startled and horrified for the moment. Then # pursued him+ as # have told *ou+ but without result.6 M* case was practicall* complete+ and there was onl* one small incident needed to round it off. .hen+ after a considerable drive+ we arrived at the strange old rambling house which m* client had described+ it was $alph+ the elderl* butler+ who opened the door. # had re>uisitioned the carriage for the da* and had as(ed m* elderl* friend to remain within it unless we should summon him. $alph+ a little wrin(led old fellow+ was in the conventional costume of blac( coat and pepper/and/salt trousers+ with onl* one curious variant. )e wore brown leather gloves+ which at sight of us he instantl* shuffled off+ la*ing them down on the hall/table as we passed in. # have+ as m* friend .atson ma* have remar(ed+ an abnormall* acute set of senses+ and a faint but incisive scent was apparent. #t seemed to centre on the hall table. # turned+ placed m* hat there+ (noc(ed it off+ stooped to pic( it up+ and contrived to bring m* nose within a foot of the gloves. ;es+ it was undoubtedl* from them that the curious tarr* odour was oozing. # passed on into the stud* with m* case complete. 1las+ that # should have to show m* hand so when # tell m* own stor*8 #t was b* concealing such lin(s in the chain that .atson was enabled to produce his meretricious finales.

Colonel 7msworth was not in his room+ but he came >uic(l* enough on receipt of $alph&s message. .e heard his >uic(+ heav* step in the passage. The door was flung open and he rushed in with bristling beard and twisted features+ as terrible an old man as ever # have seen. )e held our cards in his hand+ and he tore them up and stamped on the fragments. 6)ave # not told *ou+ *ou infernal bus*bod*+ that *ou are warned off the premises< :ever dare to show *our damned face here again. #f *ou enter again without m* leave # shall be within m* rights if # use violence. #&ll shoot *ou+ sir8 B* "od+ # will8 1s to *ou+ sir+6 turning upon me+ 6# e tend the same warning to *ou. # am familiar with *our ignoble profession+ but *ou must ta(e *our reputed talents to some other field. There is no opening for them here.6 6# cannot leave here+6 said m* client firml*+ 6until # hear from "odfre*&s own lips that he is under no restraint.6 'ur involuntar* host rang the bell. 6$alph+6 he said+ 6telephone down to the count* police and as( the inspector to send up two constables. Tell him there are burglars in the house.6 6'ne moment+6 said #. 6;ou must be aware+ Mr. -odd+ that Colonel 7msworth is within his rights and that we have no legal status within his house. 'n the other hand+ he should recognize that *our action is prompted entirel* b* solicitude for his son. # venture to hope that if # were allowed to have five minutes conversation with Colonel 7msworth # could certainl* alter his view of the matter.6 6# am not so easil* altered+6 said the old soldier. 6$alph+ do what # have told *ou. .hat the devil are *ou waiting for<

$ing up the police86 6:othing of the sort+6 # said+ putting m* bac( to the door. 61n* police interference would bring about the ver* catastrophe which *ou dread.6 # too( out m* noteboo( and scribbled one word upon a loose sheet. 6That+6 said # as # handed it to Colonel 7msworth+ 6is what has brought us here.6 )e stared at the writing with a face from which ever* e pression save amazement had vanished. 6)ow do *ou (now<6 he gasped+ sitting down heavil* in his chair. 6#t is m* business to (now things. That is m* trade.6 )e sat in deep thought+ his gaunt hand tugging at his straggling beard. Then he made a gesture of resignation. 6.ell+ if *ou wish to see "odfre*+ *ou shall. #t is no doing of mine+ but *ou have forced m* hand. $alph+ tell Mr. "odfre* and Mr. Cent that in five minutes we shall be with them.6 1t the end of that time we passed down the garden path and found ourselves in front of the m*ster* house at the end. 1 small bearded man stood at the door with a loo( of considerable astonishment upon his face. 6This is ver* sudden+ Colonel 7msworth+6 said he. 6This will disarrange all our plans.6 6# can&t help it+ Mr. Cent. 'ur hands have been forced. Can Mr. "odfre* see us<6 6;es+ he is waiting inside.6 )e turned and led us into a large

plainl* furnished front room. 1 man was standing with his bac( to the fire+ and at the sight of him m* client sprang forward with outstretched hand. 6.h*+ "odfre*+ old man+ this is fine86 But the other waved him bac(. 6-on&t touch me+ Bimmie. Ceep *our distance. ;es+ *ou ma* well stare8 # don&t >uite loo( the smart %ance/Corporal 7msworth+ of B S>uadron+ do #<6 )is appearance was certainl* e traordinar*. 'ne could see that he had indeed been a handsome man with clear/cut features sunburned b* an 1frican sun+ but mottled in patches over this dar(er surface were curious whitish patches which had bleached his s(in. 6That&s wh* # don&t court visitors+6 said he. 6# don&t mind *ou+ Bimmie+ but # could have done without *our friend. # suppose there is some good reason for it+ but *ou have me at a disadvantage.6 6# wanted to be sure that all was well with *ou+ "odfre*. # saw *ou that night when *ou loo(ed into m* window+ and # could not let the matter rest till # had cleared things up.6 6'ld $alph told me *ou were there+ and # couldn&t help ta(ing a peep at *ou. # hoped *ou would not have seen me+ and # had to run to m* burrow when # heard the window go up.6 6But what in heaven&s name is the matter<6 6.ell+ it&s not a long stor* to tell+6 said he+ lighting a cigarette. 6;ou remember that morning fight at Buffelsspruit+ outside Pretoria+ on the 7astern railwa* line< ;ou heard # was hit<6

6;es+ # heard that but # never got particulars.6 6Three of us got separated from the others. #t was ver* bro(en countr*+ *ou ma* remember. There was Simpson// the fellow we called Bald* Simpson//and 1nderson+ and #. .e were clearing brother Boer+ but he la* low and got the three of us. The other two were (illed. # got an elephant bullet through m* shoulder. # stuc( on to m* horse+ however+ and he galloped several miles before # fainted and rolled off the saddle. 6.hen # came to m*self it was nightfall+ and # raised m*self up+ feeling ver* wea( and ill. To m* surprise there was a house close beside me+ a fairl* large house with a broad stoep and man* windows. #t was deadl* cold. ;ou remember the (ind of numb cold which used to come at evening+ a deadl*+ sic(ening sort of cold+ ver* different from a crisp health* frost. .ell+ # was chilled to the bone+ and m* onl* hope seemed to lie in reaching that house. # staggered to m* feet and dragged m*self along+ hardl* conscious of what # did. # have a dim memor* of slowl* ascending the steps+ entering a wide/opened door+ passing into a large room which contained several beds+ and throwing m*self down with a gasp of satisfaction upon one of them. #t was unmade+ but that troubled me not at all. # drew the clothes over m* shivering bod* and in a moment # was in a deep sleep. 6#t was morning when # wa(ened+ and it seemed to me that instead of coming out into a world of sanit* # had emerged into some e traordinar* nightmare. The 1frican sun flooded through the big+ curtainless windows+ and ever* detail of the great+ bare+ whitewashed dormitor* stood out hard and clear. #n front of me was standing a small+ dwarf/li(e man with a huge+ bulbous head+ who was =abbering e citedl* in -utch+ waving two horrible hands which loo(ed to me li(e brown

sponges. Behind him stood a group of people who seemed to be intensel* amused b* the situation+ but a chill came over me as # loo(ed at them. :ot one of them was a normal human being. 7ver* one was twisted or swollen or disfigured in some strange wa*. The laughter of these strange monstrosities was a dreadful thing to hear. 6#t seemed that none of them could spea( 7nglish+ but the situation wanted clearing up+ for the creature with the big head was growing furiousl* angr*+ and+ uttering wild/beast cries+ he had laid his deformed hands upon me and was dragging me out of bed+ regardless of the fresh flow of blood from m* wound. The little monster was as strong as a bull+ and # don&t (now what he might have done to me had not an elderl* man who was clearl* in authorit* been attracted to the room b* the hubbub0 )e said a few stern words in -utch+ and m* persecutor shran( awa*. Then he turned upon me+ gazing at me in the utmost amazement. 6&)ow in the world did *ou come here<& he as(ed in amazement. &.ait a bit8 # see that *ou are tired out and that wounded shoulder of *ours wants loo(ing after. # am a doctor+ and #&ll soon have *ou tied up. But+ man alive8 *ou are in far greater danger here than ever *ou were on the battlefield. ;ou are in the %eper )ospital+ and *ou have slept in a leper&s bed.& 6:eed # tell *ou more+ Bimmie< #t seems that in view of the approaching battle all these poor creatures had been evacuated the da* before. Then+ as the British advanced+ the* had been brought bac( b* this+ their medical superintendent+ who assured me that+ though he believed he was immune to the disease+ he would none the less never have dared to do what # had done. )e put me in a private room+ treated me (indl*+ and within a wee( or so # was

removed to the general hospital at Pretoria. 6So there *ou have m* traged*. # hoped against hope+ but it was not until # had reached home that the terrible signs which *ou see upon m* face told me that # had not escaped. .hat was # to do< # was in this lonel* house. .e had two servants whom we could utterl* trust. There was a house where # could live. 9nder pledge of secrec*+ Mr. Cent+ who is a surgeon+ was prepared to sta* with me. #t seemed simple enough on those lines. The alternative was a dreadful one// segregation for life among strangers with never a hope of release. But absolute secrec* was necessar*+ or even in this >uiet countr*side there would have been an outcr*+ and # should have been dragged to m* horrible doom. 7ven *ou+ Bimmie//even *ou had to be (ept in the dar(. .h* m* father has relented # cannot imagine.6 Colonel 7msworth pointed to me. 6This is the gentleman who forced m* hand.6 )e unfolded the scrap of paper on which # had written the word 6%epros*.6 6#t seemed to me that if he (new so much as that it was safer that he should (now all.6 61nd so it was+6 said #. 6.ho (nows but good ma* come of it< # understand that onl* Mr. Cent has seen the patient. Ma* # as(+ sir+ if *ou are an authorit* on such complaints+ which are+ # understand+ tropical or semi/tropical in their nature<6 6# have the ordinar* (nowledge of the educated medical man+6 he observed with some stiffness. 6# have no doubt+ sir+ that *ou are full* competent+ but # am sure that *ou will agree that in such a case a second opinion is valuable. ;ou have avoided this+ # understand+ for fear that

pressure should be put upon *ou to segregate the patient.6 6That is so+6 said Colonel 7msworth. 6# foresaw this situation+6 # e plained+ 6and # have brought with me a friend whose discretion ma* absolutel* be trusted. # was able once to do him a professional service+ and he is read* to advise as a friend rather than as a specialist. )is name is Sir Bames Saunders.6 The prospect of an interview with %ord $oberts would not have e cited greater wonder and pleasure in a raw subaltern than was now reflected upon the face of Mr. Cent. 6# shall indeed be proud+6 he murmured. 6Then # will as( Sir Bames to step this wa*. )e is at present in the carriage outside the door. Meanwhile+ Colonel 7msworth+ we ma* perhaps assemble in *our stud*+ where # could give the necessar* e planations.6 1nd here it is that # miss m* .atson. B* cunning >uestions and e=aculations of wonder he could elevate m* simple art+ which is but s*stematized common sense+ into a prodig*. .hen # tell m* own stor* # have no such aid. 1nd *et # will give m* process of thought even as # gave it to m* small audience+ which included "odfre*&s mother in the stud* of Colonel 7msworth. 6That process+6 said #+ 6starts upon the supposition that when *ou have eliminated all which is impossible+ then whatever remains+ however improbable+ must be the truth. #t ma* well be that several e planations remain+ in which case one tries test after test until one or other of them has a convincing amount of support. .e will now appl* this principle to the case in point. 1s it was first presented to me+ there were

three possible e planations of the seclusion or incarceration of this gentleman in an outhouse of his father&s mansion. There was the e planation that he was in hiding for a crime+ or that he was mad and that the* wished to avoid an as*lum+ or that he had some disease which caused his segregation. # could thin( of no other ade>uate solutions. These+ then+ had to be sifted and balanced against each other. 6The criminal solution would not bear inspection. :o unsolved crime had been reported from that district. # was sure of that. #f it were some crime not *et discovered+ then clearl* it would be to the interest of the famil* to get rid of the delin>uent and send him abroad rather than (eep him concealed at home. # could see no e planation for such a line of conduct. 6#nsanit* was more plausible. The presence of the second person in the outhouse suggested a (eeper. The fact that he loc(ed the door when he came out strengthened the supposition and gave the idea of constraint. 'n the other hand+ this constraint could not be severe or the *oung man could not have got loose and come down to have a loo( at his friend. ;ou will remember+ Mr. -odd+ that # felt round for points+ as(ing *ou+ for e ample+ about the paper which Mr. Cent was reading. )ad it been the %ancet or the British Medical Bournal it would have helped me. #t is not illegal+ however+ to (eep a lunatic upon private premises so long as there is a >ualified person in attendance and that the authorities have been dul* notified. .h*+ then+ all this desperate desire for secrec*< 'nce again # could not get the theor* to fit the facts. 6There remained the third possibilit*+ into which+ rare and unli(el* as it was+ ever*thing seemed to fit. %epros* is not uncommon in South 1frica. B* some e traordinar* chance

this *outh might have contracted it. )is people would be placed in a ver* dreadful position+ since the* would desire to save him from segregation. "reat secrec* would be needed to prevent rumours from getting about and subse>uent interference b* the authorities. 1 devoted medical man+ if sufficientl* paid+ would easil* be found to ta(e charge of the sufferer. There would be no reason wh* the latter should not be allowed freedom after dar(. Bleaching of the s(in is a common result of the disease. The case was a strong one// so strong that # determined to act as if it were actuall* proved. .hen on arriving here # noticed that $alph+ who carries out the meals+ had gloves which are impregnated with disinfectants+ m* last doubts were removed. 1 single word showed *ou+ sir+ that *our secret was discovered+ and if # wrote rather than said it+ it was to prove to *ou that m* discretion was to be trusted.6 # was finishing this little anal*sis of the case when the door was opened and the austere figure of the great dermatologist was ushered in. But for once his sphin /li(e features had rela ed and there was a warm humanit* in his e*es. )e strode up to Colonel 7msworth and shoo( him b* the hand. 6#t is often m* lot to bring ill/tidings and seldom good+6 said he. 6This occasion is the more welcome. #t is not lepros*.6 6.hat<6 61 well/mar(ed case of pseudo/lepros* or ichth*osis+ a scaleli(e affection of the s(in+ unsightl*+ obstinate+ but possibl* curable+ and certainl* noninfective. ;es+ Mr. )olmes+ the coincidence is a remar(able one. But is it coincidence< 1re there not subtle forces at wor( of which we (now little< 1re we assured that the apprehension from

which this *oung man has no doubt suffered terribl* since his e posure to its contagion ma* not produce a ph*sical effect which simulates that which it fears< 1t an* rate+ # pledge m* professional reputation//But the lad* has fainted8 # thin( that Mr. Cent had better be with her until she recovers from this =o*ous shoc(.6

AD$"!T%#" $&&&' TH" AD$"!T%#" #"T&#"D C * %#MA!

F TH"

Sherloc( )olmes was in a melanchol* and philosophic mood that morning. )is alert practical nature was sub=ect to such reactions. 6-id *ou see him<6 he as(ed. 6;ou mean the old fellow who has =ust gone out<6 6Precisel*.6 6;es+ # met him at the door.6 6.hat did *ou thin( of him<6 61 pathetic+ futile+ bro(en creature.6 67 actl*+ .atson. Pathetic and futile. But is not all life pathetic and futile< #s not his stor* a microcosm of the whole< .e reach. .e grasp. 1nd what is left in our hands at the end< 1 shadow. 'r worse than a shadow//miser*.6 6#s he one of *our clients<6 6.ell+ # suppose # ma* call him so. )e has been sent on b* the ;ard. Bust as medical men occasionall* send their

incurables to a >uac(. The* argue that the* can do nothing more+ and that whatever happens the patient can be no worse than he is.6 6.hat is the matter<6 )olmes too( a rather soiled card from the table. 6Bosiah 1mberle*. )e sa*s he was =unior partner of Bric(fall and 1mberle*+ who are manufacturers of artistic materials. ;ou will see their names upon paint/bo es. )e made his little pile+ retired from business at the age of si t*/one+ bought a house at %ewisham. and settled down to rest after a life of ceaseless grind. 'ne would thin( his future was tolerabl* assured.6 6;es+ indeed.6 )olmes glanced over some notes which he had scribbled upon the bac( of an envelope. 6$etired in 235?+ .atson. 7arl* in 2354 he married a woman twent* *ears *ounger than himself//a good/loo(ing woman+ too. if the photograph does not flatter. 1 competence+ a wife+ leisure//it seemed a straight road which la* before him. 1nd *et within two *ears he is+ as *ou have seen+ as bro(en and miserable a creature as crawls beneath the sun.6 6But what has happened<6 6The old stor*+ .atson. 1 treacherous friend and a fic(le wife. #t would appear that 1mberle* has one hobb* in life+ and it is chess. :ot far from him at %ewisham there lives a *oung doctor who is also a chess/pla*er. # have noted his name as -r. $a* 7rnest. 7rnest was fre>uentl* in the house+ and an intimac* between him and Mrs. 1mberle* was a natural se>uence+ for *ou must admit that our unfortunate

client has few outward graces+ whatever his inner virtues ma* be. The couple went off together last wee(//destination untraced. .hat is more+ the faithless spouse carried off the old man&s deed/bo as her personal luggage with a good part of his life&s savings within. Can we find the lad*< Can we save the mone*< 1 commonplace problem so far as it has developed+ and *et a vital one for Bosiah 1mberle*.6 6.hat will *ou do about it<6 6.ell+ the immediate >uestion+ m* dear .atson+ happens to be+ .hat will *ou do<//if *ou will be good enough to understud* me. ;ou (now that # am preoccupied with this case of the two Coptic Patriarchs+ which should come to a head to/da*. # reall* have not time to go out to %ewisham+ and *et evidence ta(en on the spot has a special value. The old fellow was >uite insistent that # should go+ but # e plained m* difficult*. )e is prepared to meet a representative.6 6B* all means+6 # answered. 6# confess # don&t see that # can be of much service+ but # am willing to do m* best.6 1nd so it was that on a summer afternoon # set forth to %ewisham+ little dreaming that within a wee( the affair in which # was engaging would be the eager debate of all 7ngland. #t was late that evening before # returned to Ba(er Street and gave an account of m* mission. )olmes la* with his gaunt figure stretched in his deep chair+ his pipe curling forth slow wreaths of acrid tobacco+ while his e*elids drooped over his e*es so lazil* that he might almost have been asleep were it not that at an* halt or >uestionable passage of m* narrative the* half lifted+ and two gra* e*es+ as bright and (een as rapiers+ transfi ed me with their searching glance. 6The )aven is the name of Mr. Bosiah 1mberle*&s house+6 #

e plained. 6# thin( it would interest *ou+ )olmes. #t is li(e some penurious patrician who has sun( into the compan* of his inferiors. ;ou (now that particular >uarter+ the monotonous bric( streets+ the wear* suburban highwa*s. $ight in the middle of them+ a little island of ancient culture and comfort+ lies this old home+ surrounded b* a high sun/ ba(ed wall mottled with lichens and topped with moss+ the sort of wall//6 6Cut out the poetr*+ .atson+6 said )olmes severel*. 6# note that it was a high bric( wall.6 67 actl*. # should not have (nown which was The )aven had # not as(ed a lounger who was smo(ing in the street. # have a reason for mentioning him. )e was a tall+ dar(+ heavil* moustached+ rather militar*/loo(ing man. )e nodded in answer to m* in>uir* and gave me a curiousl* >uestioning glance+ which came bac( to m* memor* a little later. 6# had hardl* entered the gatewa* before # saw Mr. 1mberle* coming down the drive. # onl* had a glimpse of him this morning+ and he certainl* gave me the impression of a strange creature+ but when # saw him in full light his appearance was even more abnormal.6 6# have+ of course+ studied it+ and *et # should be interested to have *our impression+6 said )olmes. 6)e seemed to me li(e a man who was literall* bowed down b* care. )is bac( was curved as though he carried a heav* burden. ;et he was not the wea(ling that # had at first imagined+ for his shoulders and chest have the framewor( of a giant+ though his figure tapers awa* into a pair of spindled legs.6

6%eft shoe wrin(led+ right one smooth.6 6# did not observe that.6 6:o+ *ou wouldn&t. # spotted his artificial limb. But proceed.6 6# was struc( b* the sna(* loc(s of grizzled hair which curled from under his old straw hat+ and his face with its fierce+ eager e pression and the deepl* lined features.6 6!er* good+ .atson. .hat did he sa*<6 6)e began pouring out the stor* of his grievances. .e wal(ed down the drive together+ and of course # too( a good loo( round. # have never seen a worse/(ept place. The garden was all running to seed+ giving me an impression of wild neglect in which the plants had been allowed to find the wa* of :ature rather than of art. )ow an* decent woman could have tolerated such a state of things+ # don&t (now. The house+ too+ was slatternl* to the last degree+ but the poor man seemed himself to be aware of it and to be tr*ing to remed* it+ for a great pot of green paint stood in the centre of the hall+ and he was carr*ing a thic( brush in his left hand. )e had been wor(ing on the woodwor(. 6)e too( me into his ding* sanctum+ and we had a long chat. 'f course+ he was disappointed that *ou had not come *ourself. &# hardl* e pected+& he said+ &that so humble an individual as m*self+ especiall* after m* heav* financial loss+ could obtain the complete attention of so famous a man as Mr. Sherloc( )olmes.& 6# assured him that the financial >uestion did not arise. &:o of course+ it is art for art&s sa(e with him+& said he+ &but even on the artistic side of crime he might have found something here to stud*. 1nd human nature+ -r. .atson//the blac(

ingratitude of it all8 .hen did # ever refuse one of her re>uests< .as ever a woman so pampered< 1nd that *oung man//he might have been m* own son. )e had the run of m* house. 1nd *et see how the* have treated me8 'h+ -r. .atson+ it is a dreadful+ dreadful world8& 6That was the burden of his song for an hour or more. )e had+ it seems+ no suspicion of an intrigue. The* lived alone save for a woman who comes in b* the da* and leaves ever* evening at si . 'n that particular evening old 1mberle*+ wishing to give his wife a treat+ had ta(en two upper circle seats at the )a*mar(et Theatre. 1t the last moment she had complained of a headache and had refused to go. )e had gone alone. There seemed to be no doubt about the fact+ for he produced the unused tic(et which he had ta(en for his wife.6 6That is remar(able//most remar(able+6 said )olmes+ whose interest in the case seemed to be rising. 6Pra* continue+ .atson. # find *our narrative most arresting. -id *ou personall* e amine this tic(et< ;ou did not+ perchance+ ta(e the number<6 6#t so happens that # did+6 # answered with some pride. 6#t chanced to be m* old school number+ thirt*/one+ and so is stuc( in m* head.6 67 cellent+ .atson8 )is seat+ then+ was either thirt* or thirt*/ two.6 6Guite so+6 # answered with some m*stification. 61nd on B row.6 6That is most satisfactor*. .hat else did he tell *ou<6 6)e showed me his strong/room+ as he called it. #t reall* is a

strong/room//li(e a ban(//with iron door and shutter// burglarproof+ as he claimed. )owever+ the woman seems to have had a duplicate (e*+ and between them the* had carried off some seven thousand pounds& worth of cash and securities.6 6Securities8 )ow could the* dispose of those<6 6)e said that he had given the police a list and that he hoped the* would be unsaleable. )e had got bac( from the theatre about midnight and found the place plundered+ the door and window open+ and the fugitives gone. There was no letter or message+ nor has he heard a word since. )e at once gave the alarm to the police.6 )olmes brooded for some minutes. 6;ou sa* he was painting. .hat was he painting<6 6.ell+ he was painting the passage. But he had alread* painted the door and woodwor( of this room # spo(e of.6 6-oes it not stri(e *ou as a strange occupation in the circumstances<6 6&'ne must do something to ease an aching heart.& That was his own e planation. #t was eccentric+ no doubt+ but he is clearl* an eccentric man. )e tore up one of his wife&s photographs in m* presence//tore it up furiousl* in a tempest of passion. &# never wish to see her damned face again+& he shrie(ed.6 61n*thing more+ .atson<6 6;es+ one thing which struc( me more than an*thing else. # had driven to the Blac(heath Station and had caught m*

train there when+ =ust as it was starting+ # saw a man dart into the carriage ne t to m* own. ;ou (now that # have a >uic( e*e for faces+ )olmes. #t was undoubtedl* the tall+ dar( man whom # had addressed in the street. # saw him once more at %ondon Bridge+ and then # lost him in the crowd. But # am convinced that he was following me.6 6:o doubt8 :o doubt86 said )olmes. 61 tall+ dar(+ heavil* moustached man+ *ou sa*+ with gra*/tinted sun/glasses<6 6)olmes+ *ou are a wizard. # did not sa* so+ but he had gra*/ tinted sun/glasses.6 61nd a Masonic tie/pin<6 6)olmes86 6Guite simple+ m* dear .atson. But let us get down to what is practical. # must admit to *ou that the case+ which seemed to me to be so absurdl* simple as to be hardl* worth m* notice+ is rapidl* assuming a ver* different aspect. #t is true that though in *our mission *ou have missed ever*thing of importance+ *et even those things which have obtruded themselves upon *our notice give rise to serious thought.6 6.hat have # missed<6 6-on&t be hurt+ m* dear fellow. ;ou (now that # am >uite impersonal. :o one else would have done better. Some possibl* not so well. But clearl* *ou have missed some vital points. .hat is the opinion of the neighbours about this man 1mberle* and his wife< That surel* is of importance. .hat of -r. 7rnest< .as he the ga* %othario one would e pect< .ith *our natural advantages+ .atson+ ever* lad* is *our helper and accomplice. .hat about the girl at the post/office+ or the wife of the greengrocer< # can picture *ou whispering

soft nothings with the *oung lad* at the Blue 1nchor+ and receiving hard somethings in e change. 1ll this *ou have left undone.6 6#t can still be done.6 6#t has been done. Than(s to the telephone and the help of the ;ard+ # can usuall* get m* essentials without leaving this room. 1s a matter of fact+ m* information confirms the man&s stor*. )e has the local repute of being a miser as well as a harsh and e acting husband. That he had a large sum of mone* in that strong/room of his is certain. So also is it that *oung -r. 7rnest+ an unmarried man+ pla*ed chess with 1mberle*+ and probabl* pla*ed the fool with his wife. 1ll this seems plain sailing+ and one would thin( that there was no more to be said//and *et8//and *et86 6.here lies the difficult*<6 6#n m* imagination+ perhaps. .ell+ leave it there+ .atson. %et us escape from this wear* wor(ada* world b* the side door of music. Carina sings to/night at the 1lbert )all+ and we still have time to dress+ dine+ and en=o*.6 #n the morning # was up betimes+ but some toast crumbs and two empt* eggshells told me that m* companion was earlier still. # found a scribbled note upon the table. -71$ .1TS':@ There are one or two points of contact which # should wish to establish with Mr. Bosiah 1mberle*. .hen # have done so we can dismiss the case//or not. # would onl* as( *ou to be on hand about three o&cloc(+ as # conceive it possible that # ma* want *ou.

S.). # saw nothing of )olmes all da*+ but at the hour named he returned+ grave+ preoccupied+ and aloof. 1t such times it was wiser to leave him to himself. 6)as 1mberle* been here *et<6 6:o.6 61h8 # am e pecting him.6 )e was not disappointed+ for presentl* the old fellow arrived with a ver* worried and puzzled e pression upon his austere face. 6#&ve had a telegram+ Mr. )olmes. # can ma(e nothing of it.6 )e handed it over+ and )olmes read it aloud.
6Come at once without fail. Can give *ou information as to *our recent loss. 7%M1:. The !icarage.6

6-ispatched at A@2D from %ittle Purlington+6 said )olmes. 6%ittle Purlington is in 7sse + # believe+ not far from ,rinton. .ell+ of course *ou will start at once. This is evidentl* from a responsible person+ the vicar of the place. .here is m* Croc(ford< ;es+ here we have him@ &B. C. 7lman+ M. 1.+ %iving of Moosmoor cum %ittle Purlington.& %oo( up the trains+ .atson.6 6There is one at F@AD from %iverpool Street.6 67 cellent. ;ou had best go with him+ .atson. )e ma* need help or advice. Clearl* we have come to a crisis in this affair.6 But our client seemed b* no means eager to start.

6#t&s perfectl* absurd+ Mr. )olmes+6 he said. 6.hat can this man possibl* (now of what has occurred< #t is waste of time and mone*.6 6)e would not have telegraphed to *ou if he did not (now something. .ire at once that *ou are coming.6 6# don&t thin( # shall go.6 )olmes assumed his sternest aspect. 6#t would ma(e the worst possible impression both on the police and upon m*self+ Mr. 1mberle*+ if when so obvious a clue arose *ou should refuse to follow it up. .e should feel that *ou were not reall* in earnest in this investigation.6 'ur client seemed horrified at the suggestion. 6.h*+ of course # shall go if *ou loo( at it in that wa*+6 said he. 6'n the face of it+ it seems absurd to suppose that this parson (nows an*thing+ but if *ou thin(//6 6# do thin(+6 said )olmes with emphasis+ and so we were launched upon our =ourne*. )olmes too( me aside before we left the room and gave me one word of counsel+ which showed that he considered the matter to be of importance. 6.hatever *ou do+ see that he reall* does go+6 said he. 6Should he brea( awa* or return+ get to the nearest telephone e change and send the single word &Bolted.& # will arrange here that it shall reach me wherever # am.6 %ittle Purlington is not an eas* place to reach+ for it is on a branch line. M* remembrance of the =ourne* is not a pleasant one+ for the weather was hot+ the train slow+ and m* companion sullen and silent+ hardl* tal(ing at all save to ma(e an occasional sardonic remar( as to the futilit* of our

proceedings. .hen we at last reached the little station it was a two/mile drive before we came to the !icarage+ where a big+ solemn+ rather pompous clerg*man received us in his stud*. 'ur telegram la* before him. 6.ell+ gentlemen+6 he as(ed+ 6what can # do for *ou<6 6.e came+6 # e plained+ 6in answer to *our wire.6 6M* wire8 # sent no wire.6 6# mean the wire which *ou sent to Mr. Bosiah 1mberle* about his wife and his mone*.6 6#f this is a =o(e+ sir+ it is a ver* >uestionable one+6 said the vicar angril*. 6# have never heard of the gentleman *ou name+ and # have not sent a wire to an*one.6 'ur client and # loo(ed at each other in amazement. 6Perhaps there is some mista(e+6 said #0 6are there perhaps two vicarages< )ere is the wire itself+ signed 7lman and dated from the !icarage.6 6There is onl* one vicarage+ sir+ and onl* one vicar+ and this wire is a scandalous forger*+ the origin of which shall certainl* be investigated b* the police. Meanwhile+ # can see no possible ob=ect in prolonging this interview.6 So Mr. 1mberle* and # found ourselves on the roadside in what seemed to me to be the most primitive village in 7ngland. .e made for the telegraph office+ but it was alread* closed. There was a telephone+ however+ at the little $ailwa* 1rms+ and b* it # got into touch with )olmes+ who shared in our amazement at the result of our =ourne*.

6Most singular86 said the distant voice. 6Most remar(able8 # much fear+ m* dear .atson+ that there is no return train to/ night. # have unwittingl* condemned *ou to the horrors of a countr* inn. )owever+ there is alwa*s :ature+ .atson// :ature and Bosiah 1mberle*//*ou can be in close commune with both.6 # heard his dr* chuc(le as he turned awa*. #t was soon apparent to me that m* companion&s reputation as a miser was not undeserved. )e had grumbled at the e pense of the =ourne*+ had insisted upon travelling third/ class+ and was now clamorous in his ob=ections to the hotel bill. :e t morning+ when we did at last arrive in %ondon+ it was hard to sa* which of us was in the worse humour. 6;ou had best ta(e Ba(er Street as we pass+6 said #. 6Mr. )olmes ma* have some fresh instructions.6 6#f the* are not worth more than the last ones the* are not of much use+6 said 1mberle* with a malevolent scowl. :one the less+ he (ept me compan*. # had alread* warned )olmes b* telegram of the hour of our arrival+ but we found a message waiting that he was at %ewisham and would e pect us there. That was a surprise+ but an even greater one was to find that he was not alone in the sitting/room of our client. 1 stern/ loo(ing+ impassive man sat beside him+ a dar( man with gra*/tinted glasses and a large Masonic pin pro=ecting from his tie. 6This is m* friend Mr. Bar(er+6 said )olmes. 6)e has been interesting himself also in *our business+ Mr. Bosiah 1mberle*+ though we have been wor(ing independentl*. But we both have the same >uestion to as( *ou86 Mr. 1mberle* sat down heavil*. )e sensed impending danger. # read it in his straining e*es and his twitching

features. 6.hat is the >uestion+ Mr. )olmes<6 6'nl* this@ .hat did *ou do with the bodies<6 The man sprang to his feet with a hoarse scream. )e clawed into the air with his bon* hands. )is mouth was open+ and for the instant he loo(ed li(e some horrible bird of pre*. #n a flash we got a glimpse of the real Bosiah 1mberle*+ a misshapen demon with a soul as distorted as his bod*. 1s he fell bac( into his chair he clapped his hand to his lips as if to stifle a cough. )olmes sprang at his throat li(e a tiger and twisted his face towards the ground. 1 white pellet fell from between his gasping lips. 6:o short cuts+ Bosiah 1mberle*. Things must be done decentl* and in order. .hat about it+ Bar(er<6 6# have a cab at the door+6 said our taciturn companion. 6#t is onl* a few hundred *ards to the station. .e will go together. ;ou can sta* here+ .atson. # shall be bac( within half an hour.6 The old colourman had the strength of a lion in that great trun( of his+ but he was helpless in the hands of the two e perienced man/handlers. .riggling and twisting he was dragged to the waiting cab+ and # was left to m* solitar* vigil in the ill/omened house. #n less time than he had named+ however+ )olmes was bac(+ in compan* with a smart *oung police inspector. 6#&ve left Bar(er to loo( after the formalities+6 said )olmes. 6;ou had not met Bar(er+ .atson. )e is m* hated rival upon the Surre* shore. .hen *ou said a tall dar( man it was not

difficult for me to complete the picture. )e has several good cases to his credit+ has he not+ #nspector<6 6)e has certainl* interfered several times+6 the inspector answered with reserve. 6)is methods are irregular+ no doubt+ li(e m* own. The irregulars are useful sometimes+ *ou (now. ;ou+ for e ample+ with *our compulsor* warning about whatever he said being used against him+ could never have bluffed this rascal into what is virtuall* a confession.6 6Perhaps not. But we get there all the same+ Mr. )olmes. -on&t imagine that we had not formed our own views of this case+ and that we would not have laid our hands on our man. ;ou will e cuse us for feeling sore when *ou =ump in with methods which we cannot use+ and so rob us of the credit.6 6There shall be no such robber*+ MacCinnon. # assure *ou that # efface m*self from now onward+ and as to Bar(er+ he has done nothing save what # told him.6 The inspector seemed considerabl* relieved. 6That is ver* handsome of *ou+ Mr. )olmes. Praise or blame can matter little to *ou+ but it is ver* different to us when the newspapers begin to as( >uestions.6 6Guite so. But the* are prett* sure to as( >uestions an*how+ so it would be as well to have answers. .hat will *ou sa*+ for e ample+ when the intelligent and enterprising reporter as(s *ou what the e act points were which aroused *our suspicion+ and finall* gave *ou a certain conviction as to the real facts<6

The inspector loo(ed puzzled. 6.e don&t seem to have got an* real facts *et+ Mr. )olmes. ;ou sa* that the prisoner+ in the presence of three witnesses+ practicall* confessed b* tr*ing to commit suicide+ that he had murdered his wife and her lover. .hat other facts have *ou<6 6)ave *ou arranged for a search<6 6There are three constables on their wa*.6 6Then *ou will soon get the clearest fact of all. The bodies cannot be far awa*. Tr* the cellars and the garden. #t should not ta(e long to dig up the li(el* places. This house is older than the water/pipes. There must be a disused well somewhere. Tr* *our luc( there.6 6But how did *ou (now of it+ and how was it done<6 6#&ll show *ou first how it was done+ and then # will give the e planation which is due to *ou+ and even more to m* longsuffering friend here+ who has been invaluable throughout. But+ first+ # would give *ou an insight into this man&s mentalit*. #t is a ver* unusual one //so much so that # thin( his destination is more li(el* to be Broadmoor than the scaffold. )e has+ to a high degree+ the sort of mind which one associates with the mediaeval #talian nature rather than with the modern Briton. )e was a miserable miser who made his wife so wretched b* his niggardl* wa*s that she was a read* pre* for an* adventurer. Such a one came upon the scene in the person of this chess/pla*ing doctor. 1mberle* e celled at chess//one mar(+ .atson+ of a scheming mind. %i(e all misers+ he was a =ealous man+ and his =ealous* became a frantic mania. $ightl* or wrongl*+ he suspected an

intrigue. )e determined to have his revenge+ and he planned it with diabolical cleverness. Come here86 )olmes led us along the passage with as much certaint* as if he had lived in the house and halted at the open door of the strong/room. 6Pooh8 .hat an awful smell of paint86 cried the inspector. 6That was our first clue+6 said )olmes. 6;ou can than( -r. .atson&s observation for that+ though he failed to draw the inference. #t set m* foot upon the trail. .h* should this man at such a time be filling his house with strong odours< 'bviousl*+ to cover some other smell which he wisfhed to conceal//some guilt* smell which would suggest suspicions. Then came the idea of a room such as *ou see here with iron door and shutter//a hermeticall* sealed room. Put those two facts together+ and whither do the* lead< # could onl* determine that b* e amining the house m*self. # was alread* certain that the case was serious+ for # had e amined the bo /office chart at the )a*mar(et Theatre//another of -r. .atson&s bull&s/e*es//and ascertained that neither B thirt* nor thirt*/two of the upper circle had been occupied that night. Therefore+ 1mberle* had not been to the theatre+ and his alibi fell to the ground. )e made a bad slip when he allowed m* astute friend to notice the number of the seat ta(en for his wife. The >uestion now arose how # might be able to e amine the house. # sent an agent to the most impossible village # could thin( of+ and summoned m* man to it at such an hour that he could not possibl* get bac(. To prevent an* miscarriage+ -r. .atson accompanied him. The good vicar&s name # too(+ of course+ out of m* Croc(ford. -o # ma(e it all clear to *ou<6 6#t is masterl*+6 said the inspector in an awed voice.

6There being no fear of interruption # proceeded to burgle the house. Burglar* has alwa*s been an alternative profession had # cared to adopt it+ and # have little doubt that # should have come to the front. 'bserve what # found. ;ou see the gas/pipe along the s(irting here. !er* good. #t rises in the angle of the wall+ and there is a tap here in the corner. The pipe runs out into the strong/room+ as *ou can see+ and ends in that plaster rose in the centre of the ceiling+ where it is concealed b* the ornamentation. That end is wide open. 1t an* moment b* turning the outside tap the room could be flooded with gas. .ith door and shutter closed and the tap full on # would not give two minutes of conscious sensation to an*one shut up in that little chamber. B* what devilish device he deco*ed them there # do not (now+ but once inside the door the* were at his merc*.6 The inspector e amined the pipe with interest. 6'ne of our officers mentioned the smell of gas+6 said he+ 6but of course the window and door were open then+ and the paint//or some of it//was alread* about. )e had begun the wor( of painting the da* before+ according to his stor*. But what ne t+ Mr. )olmes<6 6.ell+ then came an incident which was rather une pected to m*self. # was slipping through the pantr* window in the earl* dawn when # felt a hand inside m* collar+ and a voice said@ &:ow+ *ou rascal+ what are *ou doing in there<& .hen # could twist m* head round # loo(ed into the tinted spectacles of m* friend and rival+ Mr. Bar(er. #t was a curious foregathering and set us both smiling. #t seems that he had been engaged b* -r. $a* 7rnest&s famil* to ma(e some investigations and had come to the same conclusion as to foul pla*. )e had watched the house for some da*s and had spotted -r. .atson as one of the obviousl* suspicious characters who had called there. )e could hardl* arrest .atson+ but when

he saw a man actuall* climbing out of the pantr* window there came a limit to his restraint. 'f course+ # told him how matters stood and we continued the case together.6 6.h* him< .h* not us<6 6Because it was in m* mind to put that little test which answered so admirabl*. # fear *ou would not have gone so far.6 The inspector smiled. 6.ell+ ma*be not. # understand that # have *our word+ Mr. )olmes+ that *ou step right out of the case now and that *ou turn all *our results over to us.6 6Certainl*+ that is alwa*s m* custom.6 6.ell+ in the name of the force # than( *ou. #t seems a clear case+ as *ou put it+ and there can&t be much difficult* over the bodies.6 6#&ll show *ou a grim little bit of evidence+6 said )olmes+ 6and # am sure 1mberle* himself never observed it. ;ou&ll get results+ #nspector+ b* alwa*s putting *ourself in the other fellow&s place+ and thin(ing what *ou would do *ourself. #t ta(es some imagination+ but it pa*s. :ow+ we will suppose that *ou were shut up in this little room+ had not two minutes to live+ but wanted to get even with the fiend who was probabl* moc(ing at *ou from the other side of the door. .hat would *ou do<6 6.rite a message.6 67 actl*. ;ou would li(e to tell people how *ou died. :o use writing on paper. That would be seen. #f *ou wrote on the

wall someone might rest upon it. :ow+ loo( here8 Bust above the s(irting is scribbled with a purple indelible pencil@ &.e we//& That&s all.&& 6.hat do *ou ma(e of that<6 6.ell+ it&s onl* a foot above the ground. The poor devil was on the floor d*ing when he wrote it. )e lost his senses before he could finish.6 6)e was writing+ &.e were murdered.&6 6That&s how # read it. #f *ou find an indelible pencil on the bod*//6 6.e&ll loo( out for it+ *ou ma* be sure. But those securities< Clearl* there was no robber* at all. 1nd *et he did possess those bonds. .e verified that.6 6;ou ma* be sure he has them hidden in a safe place. .hen the whole elopement had passed into histor*+ he would suddenl* discover them and announce that the guilt* couple had relented and sent bac( the plunder or had dropped it on the wa*.6 6;ou certainl* seem to have met ever* difficult*+6 said the inspector. 6'f course+ he was bound to call us in+ but wh* he should have gone to *ou # can&t understand.6 6Pure swan(86 )olmes answered. 6)e felt so clever and so sure of himself that he imagined no one could touch him. )e could sa* to an* suspicious neighbour+ &%oo( at the steps # have ta(en. # have consulted not onl* the police but even Sherloc( )olmes.&6 The inspector laughed.

6.e must forgive *ou *our &even+& Mr. )olmes+6 said he 6it&s as wor(manli(e a =ob as # can remember.6 1 couple of da*s later m* friend tossed across to me a cop* of the bi/wee(l* :orth Surre* 'bserver. 9nder a series of flaming headlines+ which began with 6The )aven )orror6 and ended with 6Brilliant Police #nvestigation+6 there was a pac(ed column of print which gave the first consecutive account of the affair. The concluding paragraph is t*pical of the whole. #t ran thus@ The remar(able acumen b* which #nspector MacCinnon deduced from the smell of paint that some other smell+ that of gas+ for e ample+ might be concealed0 the bold deduction that the strong/room might also be the death/chamber+ and the subse>uent in>uir* which led to the discover* of the bodies in a disused well+ cleverl* concealed b* a dog(ennel+ should live in the histor* of crime as a standing e ample of the intelligence of our professional detectives. 6.ell+ well+ MacCinnon is a good fellow+6 said )olmes with a tolerant smile. 6;ou can file it in our archives+ .atson. Some da* the true stor* ma* be told.6

AD$"!T%#" &+' TH" AD$"!T%#" TH#"" GA)*"S

F TH"

# don&t thin( that an* of m* adventures with Mr. Sherloc( )olmes opened >uite so abruptl*+ or so dramaticall*+ as that which # associate with The Three "ables. # had not seen )olmes for some da*s and had no idea of the new channel into which his activities had been directed. )e was in a chatt* mood that morning+ however+ and had =ust settled me into the well/worn low armchair on one side of the fire+ while

he had curled down with his pipe in his mouth upon the opposite chair+ when our visitor arrived. #f # had said that a mad bull had arrived it would give a clearer impression of what occurred. The door had flown open and a huge negro had burst into the room. )e would have been a comic figure if he had not been terrific+ for he was dressed in a ver* loud gra* chec( suit with a flowing salmon/coloured tie. )is broad face and flattened nose were thrust forward+ as his sullen dar( e*es+ with a smouldering gleam of malice in them+ turned from one of us to the other. 6.hich of *ou gen&l&men is Masser )olmes<6 he as(ed. )olmes raised his pipe with a languid smile. 6'h8 it&s *ou+ is it<6 said our visitor+ coming with an unpleasant+ stealth* step round the angle of the table. 6See here+ Masser )olmes+ *ou (eep *our hands out of other fol(s& business. %eave fol(s to manage their own affairs. "ot that+ Masser )olmes<6 6Ceep on tal(ing+6 said )olmes. 6#t&s fine.6 6'h8 it&s fine+ is it<6 growled the savage. 6#t won&t be so damn fine if # have to trim *ou up a bit. #&ve handled *our (ind before now+ and the* didn&t loo( fine when # was through with them. %oo( at that+ Masser )olmes86 )e swung a huge (notted lump of a fist under m* friend&s nose. )olmes e amined it closel* with an air of great interest. 6.ere *ou born so<6 he as(ed. 6'r did it come b* degrees<6

#t ma* have been the ic* coolness of m* friend+ or it ma* have been the slight clatter which # made as # pic(ed up the po(er. #n an* case+ our visitor&s manner became less flambo*ant. 6.ell+ #&ve given *ou fair warnin&+6 said he. 6#&ve a friend that&s interested out )arrow wa*//*ou (now what #&m meaning//and he don&t intend to have no buttin& in b* *ou. "ot that< ;ou ain&t the law+ and # ain&t the law either+ and if *ou come in #&ll be on hand also. -on&t *ou forget it.6 6#&ve wanted to meet *ou for some time+6 said )olmes. 6# won&t as( *ou to sit down+ for # don&t li(e the smell of *ou+ but aren&t *ou Steve -i ie+ the bruiser<6 6That&s m* name+ Masser )olmes+ and *ou&ll get put through it for sure if *ou give me an* lip.6 6#t is certainl* the last thing *ou need+6 said )olmes+ staring at our visitor&s hideous mouth. 6But it was the (illing of *oung Per(ins outside the )olborn//Bar .hat8 *ou&re not going<6 The negro had sprung bac(+ and his face was leaden. 6# won&t listen to no such tal(+6 said he. 6.hat have # to do with this &ere Per(ins+ Masser )olmes< # was trainin& at the Bull $ing in Birmingham when this bo* done gone get into trouble.6 6;es+ *ou&ll tell the magistrate about it+ Steve+6 said )olmes. 6#&ve been watching *ou and Barne* Stoc(dale//6 6So help me the %ord8 Masser )olmes//6 6That&s enough. "et out of it. #&ll pic( *ou up when # want *ou.6

6"ood/mornin&+ Masser )olmes. # hope there ain&t no hard feelin&s about this &ere visit<6 6There will be unless *ou tell me who sent *ou.6 6.h*+ there ain&t no secret about that+ Masser )olmes. #t was that same gen&l&man that *ou have =ust done gone mention.6 61nd who set him on to it<6 6S&elp me. # don&t (now+ Masser )olmes. )e =ust sa*+ &Steve+ *ou go see Mr. )olmes+ and tell him his life ain&t safe if he go down )arrow wa*.& That&s the whole truth.6 .ithout waiting for an* further >uestioning+ our visitor bolted out of the room almost as precipitatel* as he had entered. )olmes (noc(ed out the ashes of his pipe with a >uiet chuc(le. 6# am glad *ou were not forced to brea( his wooll* head+ .atson. # observed *our manoeuvres with the po(er. But he is reall* rather a harmless fellow+ a great muscular+ foolish+ blustering bab*+ and easil* cowed+ as *ou have seen. )e is one of the Spencer Bohn gang and has ta(en part in some dirt* wor( of late which # ma* clear up when # have time. )is immediate principal+ Barne*+ is a more astute person. The* specialize in assaults+ intimidation+ and the li(e. .hat # want to (now is+ who is at the bac( of them on this particular occasion<6 6But wh* do the* want to intimidate *ou<6 6#t is this )arrow .eald case. #t decides me to loo( into the matter+ for if it is worth an*one&s while to ta(e so much trouble+ there must be something in it.6 6But what is it<6

6# was going to tell *ou when we had this comic interlude. )ere is Mrs. Maberle*&s note. #f *ou care to come with me we will wire her and go out at once.6 -71$ M$. S)7$%'CC )'%M7S H# readI@ # have had a succession of strange incidents occur to me in connection with this house+ and # should much value *our advice. ;ou would find me at home an* time to/morrow. The house is within a short wal( of the .eald Station. # believe that m* late husband+ Mortimer Maberle*+ was one of *our earl* clients. ;ours faithfull*+ M1$; M1B7$%7;. The address was 6The Three "ables+ )arrow .eald.6 6So that&s that86 said )olmes. 61nd now+ if *ou can spare the time+ .atson+ we will get upon our wa*.6 1 short railwa* =ourne*+ and a shorter drive+ brought us to the house+ a bric( and timber villa+ standing in its own acre of undeveloped grassland. Three small pro=ections above. the upper windows made a feeble attempt to =ustif* its name. Behind was a grove of melanchol*+ half/grown pines+ and the whole aspect of the place was poor and depressing. :one the less+ we found the house to be well furnished+ and the lad* who received us was a most engaging elderl* person+ who bore ever* mar( of refinement and culture. 6# remember *our husband well+ madam+6 said )olmes+ 6though it is some *ears since he used m* services in some trifling matter.6 6Probabl* *ou would be more familiar with the name of m* son -ouglas.6

)olmes loo(ed at her with great interest. 6-ear me8 1re *ou the mother of -ouglas Maberle*< # (new him slightl*. But of course all %ondon (new him. .hat a magnificent creature he was8 .here is he now<6 6-ead+ Mr. )olmes+ dead8 )e was attache at $ome+ and he died there of pneumonia last month.6 6# am sorr*. 'ne could not connect death with such a man. # have never (nown an*one so vitall* alive. )e lived intensel*//ever* fibre of him86 6Too intensel*+ Mr. )olmes. That was the ruin of him. ;ou remember him as he was//debonair and splendid. ;ou did not see the mood*+ morose+ brooding creature into which he developed. )is heart was bro(en. #n a single month # seemed to see m* gallant bo* turn into a worn/out c*nical man.6 61 love affair//a woman<6 6'r a fiend. .ell+ it was not to tal( of m* poor lad that # as(ed *ou to come+ Mr. )olmes.6 6-r. .atson and # are at *our service.6 6There have been some ver* strange happenings. # have been in this house more than a *ear now+ and as # wished to lead a retired life # have seen little of m* neighbours. Three da*s ago # had a call from a man who said that he was a house agent. )e said that this house would e actl* suit a client of his+ and that if # would part with it mone* would be no ob=ect. #t seemed to me ver* strange as there are several empt* houses on the mar(et which appear to be e>uall* eligible+ but naturall* # was interested in what he said. #

therefore named a price which was five hundred pounds more than # gave. )e at once closed with the offer+ but added that his client desired to bu* the furniture as well and would # put a price upon it. Some of this furniture is from m* old home+ and it is+ as *ou see+ ver* good+ so that # named a good round sum. To this also he at once agreed. # had alwa*s wanted to travel+ and the bargain was so good a one that it reall* seemed that # should be m* own mistress for the rest of m* life. 6;esterda* the man arrived with the agreement all drawn out. %uc(il* # showed it to Mr. Sutro+ m* law*er+ who lives in )arrow. )e said to me+ &This is a ver* strange document. 1re *ou aware that if *ou sign it *ou could not legall* ta(e an*thing out of the house//not even *our own private possessions<& .hen the man came again in the evening # pointed this out+ and # said that # meant onl* to sell the furniture. 6&:o+ no+ ever*thing+& said he. 6&But m* clothes< M* =ewels<& 6&.ell+ well+ some concession might be made for *our personal effects. But nothing shall go out of the house unchec(ed. M* client is a ver* liberal man+ but he has his fads and his own wa* of doing things. #t is ever*thing or nothing with him.& 6&Then it must be nothing+& said #. 1nd there the matter was left+ but the whole thing seemed to me to be so unusual that # thought//6 )ere we had a ver* e traordinar* interruption. )olmes raised his hand for silence. Then he strode across

the room+ flung open the door+ and dragged in a great gaunt woman whom he had seized b* the shoulder. She entered with ungainl* struggle li(e some huge aw(ward chic(en+ torn+ s>uaw(ing+ out of its coop. 6%eave me alone8 .hat are *ou a/doin& of<6 she screeched. 6.h*+ Susan+ what is this<6 6.ell+ ma&am+ # was comin& in to as( if the visitors was sta*in& for lunch when this man =umped out at me.6 6# have been listening to her for the last five minutes+ but did not wish to interrupt *our most interesting narrative. Bust a little wheez*+ Susan+ are *ou not< ;ou breathe too heavil* for that (ind of wor(.6 Susan turned a sul(* but amazed face upon her captor. 6.ho be *ou+ an*how+ and what right have *ou a/pullin& me about li(e this<6 6#t was merel* that # wished to as( a >uestion in *our presence. -id *ou+ Mrs. Maberle*+ mention to an*one that *ou were going to write to me and consult me<6 6:o+ Mr. )olmes+ # did not.6 6.ho posted *our letter<6 6Susan did.6 67 actl*. :ow+ Susan+ to whom was it that *ou wrote or sent a message to sa* that *our mistress was as(ing advice from me<6 6#t&s a lie. # sent no message.6

6:ow+ Susan+ wheez* people ma* not live long+ *ou (now. #t&s a wic(ed thing to tell fibs. .hom did *ou tell<6 6Susan86 cried her mistress+ 6# believe *ou are a bad+ treacherous woman. # remember now that # saw *ou spea(ing to someone over the hedge.6 6That was m* own business+6 said the woman sullenl*. 6Suppose # tell *ou that it was Barne* Stoc(dale to whom *ou spo(e<6 said )olmes. 6.ell+ if *ou (now+ what do *ou want to as( for<6 6# was not sure+ but # (now now. .ell now+ Susan+ it will be worth ten pounds to *ou if *ou will tell me who is at the bac( of Barne*.6 6Someone that could la* down a thousand pounds for ever* ten *ou have in the world.6 6So+ a rich man< :o0 *ou smiled//a rich woman. :ow we have got so far+ *ou ma* as well give the name and earn the tenner.6 6#&ll see *ou in hell first.6 6'h+ Susan8 %anguage86 6# am clearing out of here. #&ve had enough of *ou all. #&ll send for m* bo to/morrow.6 She flounced for the door. 6"ood/b*e+ Susan. Paregoric is the stuff.... :ow+6 he continued+ turning suddenl* from livel* to severe when the door had closed behind the flushed and angr* woman+ 6this gang means business. %oo( how close the* pla* the game.

;our letter to me had the 2D P.M. postmar(. 1nd *et Susan passes the word to Barne*. Barne* has time to go to his emplo*er and get instructions0 he or she//# incline to the latter from Susan&s grin when she thought # had blundered// forms a plan. Blac( Steve is called in+ and # am warned off b* eleven o&cloc( ne t morning. That&s >uic( wor(+ *ou (now.6 6But what do the* want<6 6;es+ that&s the >uestion. .ho had the house before *ou<6 61 retired sea captain called ,erguson.6 61n*thing remar(able about him<6 6:ot that ever # heard of.6 6# was wondering whether he could have buried something. 'f course+ when people bur* treasure nowada*s the* do it in the Post/'ffice ban(. But there are alwa*s some lunatics about. #t would be a dull world without them. 1t first # thought of some buried valuable. But wh*+ in that case+ should the* want *our furniture< ;ou don&t happen to have a $aphael or a first folio Sha(espeare without (nowing it<6 6:o+ # don&t thin( # have an*thing rarer than a Crown -erb* tea/set.6 6That would hardl* =ustif* all this m*ster*. Besides+ wh* should the* not openl* state what the* want< #f the* covet *our tea/set+ the* can surel* offer a price for it without bu*ing *ou out+ loc(+ stoc(+ and barrel. :o+ as # read it+ there is something which *ou do not (now that *ou have+ and which *ou would not give up if *ou did (now.6

6That is how # read it+6 said #. 6-r. .atson agrees+ so that settles it.6 6.ell+ Mr. )olmes+ what can it be<6 6%et us see whether b* this purel* mental anal*sis we can get it to a finer point. ;ou have been in this house a *ear.6 6:earl* two.6 61ll the better. -uring this long period no one wants an*thing from *ou. :ow suddenl* within three or four da*s *ou have urgent demands. .hat would *ou gather from that<6 6#t can onl* mean+6 said #+ 6that the ob=ect+ whatever it ma* be+ has onl* =ust come into the house.6 6Settled once again+6 said )olmes. 6:ow+ Mrs. Maberle* has an* ob=ect =ust arrived<6 6:o+ # have bought nothing new this *ear.6 6#ndeed8 That is ver* remar(able. .ell+ # thin( we had best let matters develop a little further until we have clearer data. #s that law*er of *ours a capable man<6 6Mr. Sutro is most capable.6 6)ave *ou another maid+ or was the fair Susan+ who has =ust banged *our front door alone<6 6# have a *oung girl.6 6Tr* and get Sutro to spend a night or two in the house. ;ou might possibl* want protection.6

61gainst whom<6 6.ho (nows< The matter is certainl* obscure. #f # can&t find what the* are after+ # must approach the matter from the other end and tr* to get at the principal. -id this house/agent man give an* address<6 6Simpl* his card and 1uctioneer and !aluer.6 occupation. )aines/Bohnson+

6# don&t thin( we shall find him in the director*. )onest business men don&t conceal their place of business. .ell+ *ou will let me (now an* fresh development. # have ta(en up *our case+ and *ou ma* rel* upon it that # shall see it through.6 1s we passed through the hall )olmes&s e*es+ which missed nothing+ lighted upon several trun(s and cases which were piled in a corner. The labels shone out upon them. 6&Milano.& &%ucerne.& These are from #tal*.6 6The* are poor -ouglas&s things.6 6;ou have not unpac(ed them< )ow long have *ou had them<6 6The* arrived last wee(.6 6But *ou said//wh*+ surel* this might be the missing lin(. )ow do we (now that there is not something of value there<6 6There could not possibl* be+ Mr. )olmes. Poor -ouglas had onl* his pa* and a small annuit*. .hat could he have of value<6

)olmes was lost in thought. 6-ela* no longer+ Mrs. Maberle*+6 he said at last. 6)ave these things ta(en upstairs to *our bedroom. 7 amine them as soon as possible and see what the* cohtain. # will come tomorrow and hear *our report.6 #t was >uite evident that The Three "ables was under ver* close surveillance+ for as we came round the high hedge at the end of the lane there was the negro prize/fighter standing in the shadow. .e came on him >uite suddenl*+ and a grim and menacing figure he loo(ed in that lonel* place. )olmes clapped his hand to his poc(et. 6%oo(in& for *our gun+ Masser )olmes<6 6:o+ for m* scent/bottle+ Steve.6 6;ou are funn*+ Masser )olmes+ ain&t *ou<6 6#t won&t be funn* for *ou+ Steve+ if # get after *ou. # gave *ou fair warning this morning.6 6.ell+ Masser )olmes+ # done gone thin( over what *ou said+ and # don&t want no more tal( about that affair of Masser Per(ins. S&pose # can help *ou+ Masser )olmes+ # will.6 6.ell+ then+ tell me who is behind *ou on this =ob.6 6So help me the %ord8 Masser )olmes+ # told *ou the truth before. # don&t (now. M* boss Barne* gives me orders and that&s all.6 6.ell+ =ust bear in mind+ Steve+ that the lad* in that house+ and ever*thing under that roof+ is under m* protection. -on&t forget it.6

61ll right+ Masser )olmes. #&ll remember.6 6#&ve got him thoroughl* frightened for his own s(in+ .atson+6 )olmes remar(ed as we wal(ed on. 6# thin( he would double/cross his emplo*er if he (new who he was. #t was luc(* # had some (nowledge of the Spencer Bohn crowd+ and that Steve was one of them. :ow+ .atson+ this is a case for %angdale Pi(e+ and # am going to see him now. .hen # get bac( # ma* be clearer in the matter.6 # saw no more of )olmes during the da*+ but # could well imagine how he spent it+ for %angdale Pi(e was his human boo( of reference upon all matters of social scandal. This strange+ languid creature spent his wa(ing hours in the bow window of a St. Bames&s Street club and was the receiving/ station as well as the transmitter for all the gossip of the metropolis. )e made+ it was said+ a four/figure income b* the paragraphs which he contributed ever* wee( to the garbage papers which cater to an in>uisitive public. #f ever+ far down in the turbid depths of %ondon life+ there was some strange swirl or edd*+ it was mar(ed with automatic e actness b* this human dial upon the surface. )olmes discreetl* helped %angdale to (nowledge+ and on occasion was helped in turn. .hen # met m* friend in his room earl* ne t morning+ # was conscious from his bearing that all was well+ but none the less a most unpleasant surprise was awaiting us. #t too( the shape of the following telegram.
Please come out at once. Client&s house burgled in the night. Police in possession.

S9T$'. )olmes whistled. 6The drama has come to a crisis+ and >uic(er than # had e pected. There is a great driving/power at the bac( of this business+ .atson+ which does not

surprise me after what # have heard. This Sutro+ of course+ is her law*er. # made a mista(e+ # fear+ in not as(ing *ou to spend the night on guard. This fellow has clearl* proved a bro(en reed. .ell+ there is nothing for it but another =ourne* to )arrow .eald.6 .e found The Three "ables a ver* different establishment to the orderl* household of the previous da*. 1 small group of idlers had assembled at the garden gate+ while a couple of constables were e amining the windows and the geranium beds. .ithin we met a gra* old gentleman+ who introduced himself as the law*er together with a bustling+ rubicund inspector+ who greeted )oimes as an old friend. 6.ell+ Mr. )olmes+ no chance for *ou in this case+ #&m afraid. Bust a common+ ordinar* burglar*+ and well within the capacit* of the poor old police. :o e perts need appl*.6 6# am sure the case is in ver* good hands+6 said )olmes. 6Merel* a common burglar*+ *ou sa*<6 6Guite so. .e (now prett* well who the men are and where to find them. #t is that gang of Barne* Stoc(dale+ with the big nigger in it// the*&ve been seen about here.6 67 cellent8 .hat did the* get<6 6.ell+ the* don&t seem to have got much. Mrs. Maberle* was chloroformed and the house was//1h8 here is the lad* herself.6 'ur friend of *esterda*+ loo(ing ver* pale and ill+ had entered the room+ leaning upon a little maidservant. 6;ou gave me good advice+ Mr. )olmes+6 said she+ smiling ruefull*. 61las+ # did not ta(e it8 # did not wish to trouble Mr.

Sutro+ and so # was unprotected.6 6# onl* heard of it this morning+6 the law*er e plained. 6Mr. )olmes advised me to have some friend in the house. # neglected his advice+ and # have paid for it.6 6;ou loo( wretchedl* ill+6 said )olmes. 6Perhaps *ou are hardl* e>ual to telling me what occurred.6 6#t is all here+6 said the inspector+ tapping a bul(* noteboo(. 6Still+ if the lad* is not too e hausted//6 6There is reall* so little to tell. # have no doubt that wic(ed Susan had planned an entrance for them. The* must have (nown the house to an inch. # was conscious for a moment of the chloroform rag which was thrust over m* mouth+ but # have no notion how long # ma* have been senseless. .hen # wo(e+ one man was at the bedside and another was rising with a bundle in his hand from among m* son&s baggage+ which was partiall* opened and littered over the floor. Before he could get awa* # sprang up and seized him.6 6;ou too( a big ris(+6 said the inspector. 6# clung to him+ but he shoo( me off+ and the other ma* have struc( me+ for # can remember no more. Mar* the maid heard the noise and began screaming out of the window. That brought the police+ but the rascals had got awa*.6 6.hat did the* ta(e<6 6.ell+ # don&t thin( there is an*thing of value missing. # am sure there was nothing in m* son&s trun(s.6

6-id the men leave no clue<6 6There was one sheet of paper which # ma* have torn from the man that # grasped. #t was l*ing all crumpled on the floor. #t is in m* son&s handwriting.6 6.hich means that it is not of much use+6 said the inspector. 6:ow if it had been in the burglar&s//6 67 actl*+6 said )olmes. 6.hat rugged common sense8 :one the less+ # should be curious to see it.6 The inspector drew a folded sheet of foolscap from his poc(etboo(. 6# never pass an*thing+ however trifling+6 said he with some pomposit*. 6That is m* advice to *ou+ Mr. )olmes. #n twent*five *ears& e perience # have learned m* lesson. There is alwa*s the chance of finger/mar(s or something.6 )olmes inspected the sheet of paper. 6.hat do *ou ma(e of it+ #nspector<6 6Seems to be the end of some >ueer novel+ so far as # can see.6 6#t ma* certainl* prove to be the end of a >ueer tale+6 said )olmes. 6;ou have noticed the number on the top of the page. #t is two hundred and fort*/five. .here are the odd two hundred and fort*/four pages<6 6.ell+ # suppose the burglars got those. Much good ma* it do them86 6#t seems a >ueer thing to brea( into a house in order to

steal such papers as that. -oes it suggest an*thing to *ou+ #nspector<6 6;es+ sir+ it suggests that in their hurr* the rascals =ust grabbed at what came first to hand. # wish them =o* of what the* got.6 6.h* should the* go to m* son&s things<6 as(ed Mrs. Maberle*. 6.ell+ the* found nothing valuable downstairs+ so the* tried their luc( upstairs. That is how # read it. .hat do *ou ma(e of it+ Mr. )olmes<6 6# must thin( it over+ #nspector. Come to the window+ .atson.6 Then+ as we stood together+ he read over the fragment of paper. #t began in the middle of a sentence and ran li(e this@ 6...face bled considerabl* from the cuts and blows+ but it was nothing to the bleeding of his heart as he saw that lovel* face+ the face for which he had been prepared to sacrifice his ver* life+ loo(ing out at his agon* and humiliation. She smiled//*es+ b* )eaven8 she smiled+ li(e the heartless fiend she was+ as he loo(ed up at her. #t was at that moment that love died and hate was born. Man must live for something. #f it is not for *our embrace+ m* lad*+ then it shall surel* be for *our undoing and m* complete revenge.6 6Gueer grammar86 said )olmes with a smile as he handed the paper bac( to the inspector. 6-id *ou notice how the &he& suddenl* changed to &m*&< The writer was so carried awa* b* his own stor* that he imagined himself at the supreme moment to be the hero.6 6#t seemed might* poor stuff+6 said the inspector as he

replaced it in his boo(. 6.hat8 are *ou off+ Mr. )olmes<6 6# don&t thin( there is an*thing more for me to do now that the case is in such capable hands. B* the wa*+ Mrs. Maberle*+ did *ou sa* *ou wished to travel<6 6#t has alwa*s been m* dream+ Mr. )olmes.6 6.here would *ou li(e to go//Cairo+ Madeira+ the $iviera<6 6'h if # had the mone* # would go round the world.6 6Guite so. $ound the world. .ell+ good/morning. # ma* drop *ou a line in the evening.6 1s we passed the window # caught a glimpse of the inspector&s smile and sha(e of the head. 6These clever fellows have alwa*s a touch of madness.6 That was what # read in the inspector&s smile. 6:ow+ .atson+ we are at the last lap of our little =ourne*+6 said )olmes when we were bac( in the roar of central %ondon once more. 6# thin( we had best clear the matter up at once+ and it would be well that *ou should come with me+ for it is safer to have a witness when *ou are dealing with such a lad* as #sadora Clein.6 .e had ta(en a cab and were speeding to some address in "rosvenor S>uare. )olmes had been sun( in thought+ but he roused himself suddenl*. 6B* the wa*+ .atson+ # suppose *ou see it all clearl*<6 6:o+ # can&t sa* that # do. # onl* gather that we are going to see the lad* who is behind all this mischief.6 67 actl*8 But does the name #sadora Clein conve* nothing to *ou< She was+ of course+ the celebrated beaut*. There was

never a woman to touch her. She is pure Spanish+ the real blood of the masterfui Con>uistadors+ and her people have been leaders in Pernambuco for generations. She married the aged "erman sugar (ing+ Clein+ and presentl* found herself the richest as well as the most lovel* widow upon earth. Then there was an interval of adventure when she pleased her own tastes. She had several lovers+ and -ouglas Maberle*+ one of the most stri(ing men in %ondon+ was one of them. #t was b* all accounts more than an adventure with him. )e was not a societ* butterfl* but a strong+ proud man who gave and e pected all. But she is the &belle dame sans merci& of fiction. .hen her caprice is satisfied the matter is ended+ and if the other part* in the matter can&t ta(e her word for it she (nows how to bring it home to him.6 6Then that was his own stor*//6 61h8 *ou are piecing it together now. # hear that she is about to marr* the *oung -u(e of %omond+ who might almost be her son. )is "race&s ma might overloo( the age+ but a big scandal would be a different matter+ so it is imperative//1h8 here we are.6 #t was one of the finest corner/houses of the .est 7nd. 1 machine/li(e footman too( up our cards and returned with word that the lad* was not at home. 6Then we shall wait until she is+6 said )olmes cheerfull*. The machine bro(e down. 6:ot at home means not at home to *ou+6 said the footman. 6"ood+6 )olmes answered. 6That means that we shall not have to wait. Cindl* give this note to *our mistress.6

)e scribbled three or four words upon a sheet of his noteboo(+ folded it+ and handed it to the man. 6.hat did *ou sa*+ )olmes<6 # as(ed. 6# simpl* wrote@ &Shall it be the police+ then<& # thin( that should pass us in.6 #t did//with amazing celerit*. 1 minute later we were in an 1rabian :ights drawing/room+ vast and wonderful+ in a half gloom+ pic(ed out with an occasional pin( electric light. The lad* had come+ # felt+ to that time of life when even the proudest beaut* finds the half light more welcome. She rose from a settee as we entered@ tall+ >ueenl*+ a perfect figure+ a lovel* mas(/li(e face+ with two wonderful Spanish e*es which loo(ed murder at us both. 6.hat is this intrusion//and this insulting message<6 she as(ed+ holding up the slip of paper. 6# need not e plain+ madame. # have too much respect for *our intelligence to do so//though # confess that intelligence has been surprisingl* at fault of late.6 6)ow so+ sir<6 6B* supposing that *our hired bullies could frighten me from m* wor(. Surel* no man would ta(e up m* profession if it were not that danger attracts him. #t was *ou+ then+ who forced me to e amine the case of *oung Maberle*.6 6# have no idea what *ou are tal(ing about. .hat have # to do with hired bullies<6 )olmes turned awa* wearil*.

6;es+ # have underrated *our intelligence. .ell+ good/ afternoon86 6Stop8 .here are *ou going<6 6To Scotland ;ard.6 .e had not got halfwa* to the door before she had overta(en us and was holding his arm. She had turned in a moment from steel to velvet. 6Come and sit down+ gentlemen. %et us tal( this matter over. # feel that # ma* be fran( with *ou+ Mr. )olmes. ;ou have the feelings of a gentleman. )ow >uic( a woman&s instinct is to find it out. # will treat *ou as a friend.6 6# cannot promise to reciprocate+ madame. # am not the law+ but # represent =ustice so far as m* feeble powers go. # am read* to listen+ and then # will tell *ou how # will act.6 6:o doubt it was foolish of me to threaten a brave man li(e *ourself.6 6.hat was reall* foolish+ madame+ is that *ou have placed *ourself in the power of a band of rascals who ma* blac(mail or give *ou awa*.6 6:o+ no8 # am not so simple. Since # have promised to be fran(+ # ma* sa* that no one+ save Barne* Stoc(dale and Susan+ his wife+ have the least idea who their emplo*er is. 1s to them+ well+ it is not the first //6 She smiled and nodded with a charming co>uettish intimac*. 6# see. ;ou&ve tested them before.6 6The* are good hounds who run silent.6

6Such hounds have a wa* sooner or later of biting the hand that feeds them. The* will be arrested for this burglar*. The police are alread* after them.6 6The* will ta(e what comes to them. That is what the* are paid for. # shall not appear in the matter.6 69nless # bring *ou into it.6 6:o+ no+ *ou would not. ;ou are a gentleman. #t is a woman&s secret.6 6#n the first place+ *ou must give bac( this manuscript.6 She bro(e into a ripple of laughter and wal(ed to the fireplace. There was a calcined mass which she bro(e up with the po(er. 6Shall # give this bac(<6 she as(ed. So roguish and e >uisite did she loo( as she stood before us with a challenging smile that # felt of all )olmes&s criminals this was the one whom he would find it hardest to face. )owever+ he was immune from sentiment. 6That seals *our fate+6 he said coldl*. 6;ou are ver* prompt in *our actions+ madame+ but *ou have overdone it on this occasion.6 She threw the po(er down with a clatter. 6)ow hard *ou are86 she cried. 6Ma* # tell *ou the whole stor*<6 6# fanc* # could tell it to *ou.6 6But *ou must loo( at it with m* e*es+ Mr. )olmes. ;ou must realize it from the point of view of a woman who sees all her life&s ambition about to be ruined at the last moment. #s such

a woman to be blamed if she protects herself<6 6The original sin was *ours.6 6;es+ *es8 # admit it. )e was a dear bo*+ -ouglas+ but it so chanced that he could not fit into m* plans. )e wanted marriage//marriage+ Mr. )olmes//with a penniless commoner. :othing less would serve him. Then he became pertinacious. Because # had given he seemed to thin( that # still must give+ and to him onl*. #t was intolerable. 1t last # had to ma(e him realize it.6 6B* hiring ruffians to beat him under *our own window.6 6;ou do indeed seem to (now ever*thing. .ell+ it is true. Barne* and the bo*s drove him awa*+ and were+ # admit+ a little rough in doing so. But what did he do then< Could # have believed that a gentleman would do such an act< )e wrote a boo( in which he described his own stor*. #+ of course+ was the wolf0 he the lamb. #t was all there+ under different names+ of course0 but who in all %ondon would have failed to recognize it< .hat do *ou sa* to that+ Mr. )olmes<6 6.ell+ he was within his rights.6 6#t was as if the air of #tal* had got into his blood and brought with it the old cruel #talian spirit. )e wrote to me and sent me a cop* of his boo( that # might have the torture of anticipation. There were two copies+ he said//one for me+ one for his publisher.6 6)ow did *ou (now the publisher&s had not reached him<6 6# (new who his publisher was. #t is not his onl* novel+ *ou (now. # found out that he had not heard from #tal*. Then came -ouglas&s sudden death. So long as that other

manuscript was in the world there was no safet* for me. 'f course+ it must be among his effects+ and these would be returned to his mother. # set the gang at wor(. 'ne of them got into the house as servant. # wanted to do the thing honestl*. # reall* and trul* did. # was read* to bu* the house and ever*thing in it. # offered an* price she cared to as(. # onl* tried the other wa* when ever*thing else had failed. :ow+ Mr. )olmes+ granting that # was too hard on -ouglas// and+ "od (nows+ # am sorr* for it8//what else could # do with m* whole future at sta(e<6 Sherloc( )olmes shrugged his shoulders. 6.ell+ well+6 said he+ 6# suppose # shall have to compound a felon* as usual. )ow much does it cost to go round the world in first/class st*le<6 The lad* stared in amazement. 6Could it be done on five thousand pounds<6 6.ell+ # should thin( so+ indeed86 6!er* good. # thin( *ou will sign me a chec( for that+ and # will see that it comes to Mrs. Maberle*. ;ou owe her a little change of air. Meantime+ lad*6//he wagged a cautionar* forefinger//6have a care8 )ave a care8 ;ou can&t pla* with edged tools forever without cutting those daint* hands.6

AD$"!T%#" +' TH" AD$"!T%#" *& !,S MA!"

F TH"

#t is a most singular thing that a problem which was certainl* as abstruse and unusual as an* which # have faced in m*

long professional career should have come to me after m* retirement+ and be brought+ as it were+ to m* ver* door. #t occurred after m* withdrawal to m* little Susse home+ when # had given m*self up entirel* to that soothing life of :ature for which # had so often *earned during the long *ears spent amid the gloom of %ondon. 1t this period of m* life the good .atson had passed almost be*ond m* (en. 1n occasional wee(/end visit was the most that # ever saw of him. Thus # must act as m* own chronicler. 1h8 had he but been with me+ how much he might have made of so wonderful a happening and of m* eventual triumph against ever* difficult*8 1s it is+ however+ # must needs tell m* tale in m* own plain wa*+ showing b* m* words each step upon the difficult road which la* before me as # searched for the m*ster* of the %ion&s Mane. M* villa is situated upon the southern slope of the downs+ commanding a great view of the Channel. 1t this point the coast/line is entirel* of chal( cliffs+ which can onl* be descended b* a single+ long+ tortuous path+ which is steep and slipper*. 1t the bottom of the path lie a hundred *ards of pebbles and shingle+ even when the tide is at full. )ere and there+ however+ there are curves and hollows which ma(e splendid swimmingpools filled afresh with each flow. This admirable beach e tends for some miles in each direction+ save onl* at one point where the little cove and village of ,ulworth brea( the line. M* house is lonel*. #+ m* old house(eeper+ and m* bees have the estate all to ourselves. )alf a mile off+ however+ is )arold Stac(hurst&s well/(nown coaching establishment+ The "ables+ >uite a large place+ which contains some score of *oung fellows preparing for various professions+ with a staff of several masters. Stac(hurst himself was a well/(nown rowing Blue in his da*+ and an e cellent all/round scholar.

)e and # were alwa*s friendl* from the da* # came to the coast+ and he was the one man who was on such terms with me that we could drop in on each other in the evenings without an invitation. Towards the end of Bul*+ 25D4+ there was a severe gale+ the wind blowing up/channel+ heaping the seas to the base of the cliffs and leaving a lagoon at the turn of the tide. 'n the morning of which # spea( the wind had abated+ and all :ature was newl* washed and fresh. #t was impossible to wor( upon so delightful a da*+ and # strolled out before brea(fast to en=o* the e >uisite air. # wal(ed along the cliff path which led to the steep descent to the beach. 1s # wal(ed # heard a shout behind me+ and there was )arold Stac(hurst waving his hand in cheer* greeting. 6.hat a morning+ Mr. )olmes8 # thought # should see *ou out.6 6"oing for a swim+ # see.6 61t *our old tric(s again+6 he laughed+ patting his bulging poc(et. 6;es. McPherson started earl*+ and # e pect # ma* find him there.6 ,itzro* McPherson was the science master+ a fine upstanding *oung fellow whose life had been crippled b* heart trouble following rheumatic fever. )e was a natural athlete+ however+ and e celled in ever* game which did not throw too great a strain upon him. Summer and winter he went for his swim+ and+ as # am a swimmer m*self+ # have often =oined him. 1t this moment we saw the man himself. )is head showed above the edge of the cliff where the path ends. Then his

whole figure appeared at the top+ staggering li(e a drun(en man. The ne t instant he threw up his hands and+ with a terrible cr*+ fell upon his face. Stac(hurst and # rushed forward//it ma* have been fift* *ards//and turned him on his bac(. )e was obviousl* d*ing. Those glazed sun(en e*es and dreadful livid chee(s could mean nothing else. 'ne glimmer of life came into his face for an instant+ and he uttered two or three words with an eager air of warning. The* were slurred and indistinct+ but to m* ear the last of them+ which burst in a shrie( from his lips+ were 6the %ion&s Mane.6 #t was utterl* irrelevant and unintelligible+ and *et # could twist the sound into no other sense. Then he half raised himself from the ground+ threw his arms into the air+ and fell forward on his side. )e was dead. M* companion was paral*zed b* the sudden horror of it+ but #+ as ma* well be imagined+ had ever* sense on the alert. 1nd # had need+ for it was speedil* evident that we were in the presence of an e traordinar* case. The man was dressed onl* in his Burberr* overcoat+ his trousers+ and an unlaced pair of canvas shoes. 1s he fell over+ his Burberr*+ which had been simpl* thrown round his shoulders+ slipped off+ e posing his trun(. .e stared at it in amazement. )is bac( was covered with dar( red lines as though he had been terribl* flogged b* a thin wire scourge. The instrument with which this punishment had been inflicted was clearl* fle ible+ for the long+ angr* weals curved round his shoulders and ribs. There was blood dripping down his chin+ for he had bitten through his lower lip in the paro *sm of his agon*. )is drawn and distorted face told how terrible that agon* had been. # was (neeling and Stac(hurst standing b* the bod* when a shadow fell across us+ and we found that #an Murdoch was b* our side. Murdoch was the mathematical coach at the

establishment+ a tall+ dar(+ thin man+ so taciturn and aloof that none can be said to have been his friend. )e seemed to live in some high abstract region of surds and conic sections+ with little to connect him with ordinar* life. )e was loo(ed upon as an oddit* b* the students+ and would have been their butt+ but there was some strange outlandish blood in the man+ which showed itself not onl* in his coal/blac( e*es and swarth* face but also in occasional outbrea(s of temper+ which could onl* be described as ferocious. 'n one occasion+ being plagued b* a little dog belonging to McPherson+ he had caught the creature up and hurled it through the plate/glass window+ an action for which Stac(hurst would certainl* have given him his dismissal had he not been a ver* valuable teacher. Such was the strange comple man who now appeared beside us. )e seemed to be honestl* shoc(ed at the sight before him+ though the incident of the dog ma* show that there was no great s*mpath* between the dead man and himself. 6Poor fellow8 Poor fellow8 .hat can # do< )ow can # help<6 6.ere *ou with him< Can *ou tell us what has happened<6 6:o+ no+ # was late this morning. # was not on the beach at all. # have come straight from The "ables. .hat can # do<6 6;ou can hurr* to the police/station at ,ulworth. $eport the matter at once.6 .ithout a word he made off at top speed+ and # proceeded to ta(e the matter in hand+ while Stac(hurst+ dazed at this traged*+ remained b* the bod*. M* first tas( naturall* was to note who was on the beach. ,rom the top of the path # could see the whole sweep of it+ and it was absolutel* deserted save that two or three dar( figures could be seen far awa*

moving towards the village of ,ulworth. )aving satisfied m*self upon this point+ # wal(ed slowl* down the path. There was cla* or soft marl mi ed with the chal(+ and ever* here and there # saw the same footstep+ both ascending and descending. :o one else had gone down to the beach b* this trac( that morning. 1t one place # observed the print of an open hand with the fingers towards the incline. This could onl* mean that poor McPherson had fallen as he ascended. There were rounded depressions+ too+ which suggested that he had come down upon his (nees more than once. 1t the bottom of the path was the considerable lagoon left b* the retreating tide. 1t the side of it McPherson had undressed+ for there la* his towel on a roc(. #t was folded and dr*+ so that it would seem that+ after all+ he had never entered the water. 'nce or twice as # hunted round amid the hard shingle # came on little patches of sand where the print of his canvas shoe+ and also of his na(ed foot+ could be seen. The latter fact proved that he had made all read* to bathe+ though the towel indicated that he had not actuall* done so. 1nd here was the problem clearl* defined//as strange a one as had ever confronted me. The man had not been on the beach more than a >uarter of an hour at the most. Stac(hurst had followed him from The "ables+ so there could be no doubt about that. )e had gone to bathe and had stripped+ as the na(ed footsteps showed. Then he had suddenl* huddled on his clothes again//the* were all dishevelled and unfastened//and he had returned without bathing+ or at an* rate without dr*ing himself. 1nd the reason for his change of purpose had been that he had been scourged in some savage+ inhuman fashion+ tortured until he bit his lip through in his agon*+ and was left with onl* strength enough to crawl awa* and to die. .ho had done this barbarous deed< There were+ it is true+ small grottos and caves in the base of the cliffs+ but the low sun shone directl*

into them+ and there was no place for concealment. Then+ again+ there were those distant figures on the beach. The* seemed too far awa* to have been connected with the crime+ and the broad lagoon in which McPherson had intended to bathe la* between him and them+ lapping up to the roc(s. 'n the sea two or three fishingboats were at no great distance. Their occupants might be e amined at our leisure. There were several roads for in>uir*+ but none which led to an* ver* obvious goal. .hen # at last returned to the bod* # found that a little group of wondering fol( had gathered round it. Stac(hurst was+ of course+ still there+ and #an Murdoch had =ust arrived with 1nderson+ the village constable+ a big+ ginger/moustached man of the slow+ solid Susse breed //a breed which covers much good sense under a heav*+ silent e terior. )e listened to ever*thing+ too( note of all we said+ and finall* drew me aside. 6#&d be glad of *our advice+ Mr. )olmes. This is a big thing for me to handle+ and #&ll hear of it from %ewes if # go wrong.6 # advised him to send for his immediate superior+ and for a doctor0 also to allow nothing to be moved+ and as few fresh footmar(s as possible to be made+ until the* came. #n the meantime # searched the dead man&s poc(ets. There were his hand(erchief+ a large (nife+ and a small folding card/ case. ,rom this pro=ected a slip of paper+ which # unfolded and handed to the constable. There was written on it in a scrawling+ feminine hand@
# will be there+ *ou ma* be sure.

M19-#7. #t read li(e a love affair+ an assignation+ though when and

where were a blan(. The constable replaced it in the card/ case and returned it with the other things to the poc(ets of the Burberr*. Then+ as nothing more suggested itself+ # wal(ed bac( to m* house for brea(fast+ having first arranged that the base of the cliffs should be thoroughl* searched. Stac(hurst was round in an hour or two to tell me that the bod* had been removed to The "ables+ where the in>uest would be held. )e brought with him some serious and definite news. 1s # e pected+ nothing had been found in the small caves below the cliff+ but he had e amined the papers in McPherson&s des( and there were several which showed an intimate correspondence with a certain Miss Maud Bellam*+ of ,ulworth. .e had then established the identit* of the writer of the note. 6The police have the letters+6 he e plained. 6# could not bring them. But there is no doubt that it was a serious love affair. # see no reason+ however+ to connect it with that horrible happening save+ indeed+ that the lad* had made an appointment with him.6 6But hardl* at a bathing/pool which all of *ou were in the habit of using+6 # remar(ed. 6#t is mere chance+6 said he+ 6that several of the students were not with McPherson.6 6.as it mere chance<6 Stac(hurst (nit his brows in thought. 6#an Murdoch held them bac(+6 said he. 6)e would insist upon some algebraic demonstration before brea(fast. Poor chap+ he is dreadfull* cut up about it all.6

61nd *et # gather that the* were not friends.6 61t one time the* were not. But for a *ear or more Murdoch has been as near to McPherson as he ever could be to an*one. )e is not of a ver* s*mpathetic disposition b* nature.6 6So # understand. # seem to remember *our telling me once about a >uarrel over the ill/usage of a dog.6 6That blew over all right.6 6But left some vindictive feeling+ perhaps.6 6:o+ no+ # am sure the* were real friends.6 6.ell+ then+ we must e plore the matter of the girl. -o *ou (now her<6 67ver*one (nows her. She is the beaut* of the neighbourhood//a real beaut*+ )olmes+ who would draw attention ever*where. # (new that McPherson was attracted b* her+ but # had no notion that it had gone so far as these letters would seem to indicate.6 6But who is she<6 6She is the daughter of old Tom Bellam* who owns all the boats and bathing/cots at ,ulworth. )e was a fisherman to start with+ but is now a man of some substance. )e and his son .illiam run the business.6 6Shall we wal( into ,ulworth and see them<6 6'n what prete t<6

6'h+ we can easil* find a prete t. 1fter all+ this poor man did not ill/use himself in this outrageous wa*. Some human hand was on the handle of that scourge+ if indeed it was a scourge which inflicted the in=uries. )is circle of ac>uaintances in this lonel* place was surel* limited. %et us follow it up in ever* direction and we can hardl* fail to come upon the motive+ which in turn should lead us to the criminal.6 #t would have been a pleasant wal( across the th*me/ scented downs had our minds not been poisoned b* the traged* we had witnessed. The village of ,ulworth lies in a hollow curving in a semicircle round the ba*. Behind the old/ fashioned hamlet several modern houses have been built upon the rising ground. #t was to one of these that Stac(hurst guided me. 6That&s The )aven+ as Bellam* called it. The one with the corner tower and slate roof. :ot bad for a man who started with nothing but//B* Bove+ loo( at that86 The garden gate of The )aven had opened and a man had emerged. There was no mista(ing that tall+ angular+ straggling figure. #t was #an Murdoch+ the mathematician. 1 moment later we confronted him upon the road. 6)ullo86 said Stac(hurst. The man nodded+ gave us a sidewa*s glance from his curious dar( e*es+ and would have/passed us+ but his principal pulled him up. 6.hat were *ou doing there<6 he as(ed. Murdoch&s face flushed with anger. 6# am *our subordinate+ sir+ under *our roof. # am not aware that # owe *ou an* account of m* private actions.6 Stac(hurst&s nerves were near the surface after all he had

endured. 'therwise+ perhaps+ he would have waited. :ow he lost his temper completel*. 6#n the circumstances *our answer is pure impertinence+ Mr. Murdoch.6 6;our own >uestion might perhaps come under the same heading.6 6This is not the first time that # have had to overloo( *our insubordinate wa*s. #t will certainl* be the last. ;ou will (indl* ma(e fresh arrangements for *our future as speedil* as *ou can.6 6# had intended to do so. # have lost to/da* the onl* person who made The "ables habitable.6 )e strode off upon his wa*+ while Stac(hurst+ with angr* e*es+ stood glaring after him. 6#s he not an impossible+ intolerable man<6 he cried. The one thing that impressed itself forcibl* upon m* mind was that Mr. #an Murdoch was ta(ing the first chance to open a path of escape from the scene of the crime. Suspicion+ vague and nebulous+ was now beginning to ta(e outline in m* mind. Perhaps the visit to the Bellam*s might throw some further light upon the matter. Stac(hurst pulled himself together+ and we went forward to the house. Mr. Bellam* proved to be a middle/aged man with a flaming red beard. )e seemed to be in a ver* angr* mood+ and his face was soon as florid as his hair. 6:o+ sir+ # do not desire an* particulars. M* son here6// indicating a powerful *oung man+ with a heav*+ sullen face+ in the corner of the sitting/room//6is of one mind with me that

Mr. McPherson&s attentions to Maud were insulting. ;es+ sir+ the word &marriage& was never mentioned+ and *et there were letters and meetings+ and a great deal more of which neither of us could approve. She has no mother+ and we are her onl* guardians. .e are determined//6 But the words were ta(en from his mouth b* the appearance of the lad* herself. There was no gainsa*ing that she would have graced an* assembl* in the world. .ho could have imagined that so rare a flower would grow from such a root and in such an atmosphere< .omen have seldom been an attraction to me+ for m* brain has alwa*s governed m* heart+ but # could not loo( upon her perfect clear/cut face+ with all the soft freshness of the downlands in her delicate colouring+ without realizing that no *oung man would cross her path unscathed. Such was the girl who had pushed open the door and stood now+ wide/e*ed and intense+ in front of )arold Stac(hurst. 6# (now alread* that ,itzro* is dead+6 she said. 6-o not be afraid to tell me the particulars.6 6This other gentleman of *ours let us (now the news+6 e plained the father. 6There is no reason wh* m* sister should be brought into the matter+6 growled the *ounger man. The sister turned a sharp+ fierce loo( upon him. 6This is m* business+ .illiam. Cindl* leave me to manage it in m* own wa*. B* all accounts there has been a crime committed. #f # can help to show who did it+ it is the least # can do for him who is gone.6 She listened to a short account from m* companion+ with a

composed concentration which showed me that she possessed strong character as well as great beaut*. Maud Bellam* will alwa*s remain in m* memor* as a most complete and remar(able woman. #t seems that she alread* (new me b* sight+ for she turned to me at the end. 6Bring them to =ustice+ Mr. )olmes. ;ou have m* s*mpath* and m* help+ whoever the* ma* be.6 #t seemed to me that she glanced defiantl* at her father and brother as she spo(e. 6Than( *ou+6 said #. 6# value a woman&s instinct in such matters. ;ou use the word &the*.& ;ou thin( that more than one was concerned<6 6# (new Mr. McPherson well enough to be aware that he was a brave and a strong man. :o single person could ever have inflicted such an outrage upon him.6 6Might # have one word with *ou alone<6 6# tell *ou+ Maud+ not to mi *ourself up in the matter+6 cried her father angril*. She loo(ed at me helplessl*. 6.hat can # do<6 6The whole world will (now the facts presentl*+ so there can be no harm if # discuss them here+6 said #. 6# should have preferred privac*+ but if *our father will not allow it he must share the deliberations.6 Then # spo(e of the note which had been found in the dead man&s poc(et. 6#t is sure to be produced at the in>uest. Ma* # as( *ou to throw an* light upon it that *ou can<6 6# see no reason for m*ster*+6 she answered. 6.e were engaged to be married+ and we onl* (ept it secret because ,itzro*&s uncle+ who is ver* old and said to be d*ing+ might

have disinherited him if he had married against his wish. There was no other reason.6 6;ou could have told us+6 growled Mr. Bellam*. 6So # would+ father+ if *ou had ever shown s*mpath*.6 6# ob=ect to m* girl pic(ing up with men outside her own station.6 6#t was *our pre=udice against him which prevented us from telling *ou. 1s to this appointment6//she fumbled in her dress and produced a crumpled note//6it was in answer to this.6 -71$7ST Hran the messageI@ The old place on the beach =ust after sunset on Tuesda*. #t is the onl* time # can get awa*. ,.M. 6Tuesda* was to/da*+ and # had meant to meet him to/night.6 # turned over the paper. 6This never came b* post. )ow did *ou get it<6 6# would rather not answer that >uestion. #t has reall* nothing to do with the matter which *ou are investigating. But an*thing which bears upon that # will most freel* answer.6 She was as good as her word+ but there was nothing which was helpful in our investigation. She had no reason to thin( that her fiance had an* hidden enem*+ but she admitted that she had had several warm admirers.

6Ma* # as( if Mr. #an Murdoch was one of them<6 She blushed and seemed confused. 6There was a time when # thought he was. But that was all changed when he understood the relations between ,itzro* and m*self.6 1gain the shadow round this strange man seemed to me to be ta(ing more definite shape. )is record must be e amined. )is rooms must be privatel* searched. Stac(hurst was a willing collaborator+ for in his mind also suspicions were forming. .e returned from our visit to The )aven with the hope that one free end of this tangled s(ein was alread* in our hands. 1 wee( passed. The in>uest had thrown no light upon the matter and had been ad=ourned for further evidence. Stac(hurst had made discreet in>uir* about his subordinate+ and there had been a superficial search of his room+ but without result. Personall*+ # had gone over the whole ground again+ both ph*sicall* and mentall*+ but with no new conclusions. #n all m* chronicles the reader will find no case which brought me so completel* to the limit of m* powers. 7ven m* imagination could conceive no solution to the m*ster*. 1nd then there came the incident of the dog. #t was m* old house(eeper who heard of it first b* that strange wireless b* which such people collect the news of the countr*side. 6Sad stor* this+ sir+ about Mr. McPherson&s dog+6 said she one evening. # do not encourage such conversations+ but the words arrested m* attention.

6.hat of Mr. McPherson&s dog<6 6-ead+ sir. -ied of grief for its master.6 6.ho told *ou this<6 6.h*+ sir+ ever*one is tal(ing of it. #t too( on terrible+ and has eaten nothing for a wee(. Then to/da* two of the *oung gentlemen from The "ables found it dead//down on the beach+ sir+ at the ver* place where its master met his end.6 61t the ver* place.6 The words stood out clear in m* memor*. Some dim perception that the matter was vital rose in m* mind. That the dog should die was after the beautiful+ faithful nature of dogs. But 6in the ver* place68 .h* should this lonel* beach be fatal to it< .as it possible that it also had been sacrificed to some revengeful feud< .as it possible//< ;es+ the perception was dim+ but alread* something was building up in m* mind. #n a few minutes # was on m* wa* to The "ables+ where # found Stac(hurst in his stud*. 1t m* re>uest he sent for Sudbur* and Blount+ the two students who had found the dog. 6;es+ it la* on the ver* edge of the pool+6 said one of them. 6#t must have followed the trail of its dead master.6 # saw the faithful little creature+ an 1iredale terrier+ laid out upon the mat in the hall. The bod* was stiff and rigid+ the e*es pro=ecting+ and the limbs contorted. There was agon* in ever* line of it. ,rom The "ables # wal(ed down to the bathing/pool. The sun had sun( and the shadow of the great cliff la* blac( across the water+ which glimmered dull* li(e a sheet of lead. The place was deserted and there was no sign of life save for two sea/birds circling and screaming overhead. #n the

fading light # could diml* ma(e out the little dog&s spoor upon the sand round the ver* roc( on which his master&s towel had been laid. ,or a long time # stood in deep meditation while the shadows grew dar(er around me. M* mind was filled with racing thoughts. ;ou have (nown what it was to be in a nightmare in which *ou feel that there is some all/ important thing for which *ou search and which *ou (now is there+ though it remains forever =ust be*ond *our reach. That was how # felt that evening as # stood alone b* that place of death. Then at last # turned and wal(ed slowl* homeward. # had =ust reached the top of the path when it came to me. %i(e a flash+ # remembered the thing for which # had so eagerl* and vainl* grasped. ;ou will (now+ or .atson has written in vain+ that # hold a vast store of out/of/the/wa* (nowledge without scientific s*stem+ but ver* available for the needs of m* wor(. M* mind is li(e a crowded bo /room with pac(ets of all sorts stowed awa* therein//so man* that # ma* well have but a vague perception of what was there. # had (nown that there was something which might bear upon this matter. #t was still vague+ but at least # (new how # could ma(e it clear. #t was monstrous+ incredible+ and *et it was alwa*s a possibilit*. # would test it to the full. There is a great garret in m* little house which is stuffed with boo(s. #t was into this that # plunged and rummaged for an hour. 1t the end of that time # emerged with a little chocolate and silver volume. 7agerl* # turned up the chapter of which # had a dim remembrance. ;es+ it was indeed a far/fetched and unli(el* proposition+ and *et # could not be at rest until # had made sure if it might+ indeed+ be so. #t was late when # retired+ with m* mind eagerl* awaiting the wor( of the morrow. But that wor( met with an anno*ing interruption. # had hardl*

swallowed m* earl* cup of tea and was starting for the beach when # had a call from #nspector Bardle of the Susse Constabular*//a stead*+ solid+ bovine man with thoughtful e*es+ which loo(ed at me now with a ver* troubled e pression. 6# (now *our immense e perience+ sir+6 said he. 6This is >uite unofficial+ of course+ and need go no farther. But # am fairl* up against it in this McPherson case. The >uestion is+ shall # ma(e an arrest+ or shall # not<6 6Meaning Mr. #an Murdoch<6 6;es+ sir. There is reall* no one else when *ou come to thin( of it. That&s the advantage of this solitude. .e narrow it down to a ver* small compass. #f he did not do it+ then who did<6 6.hat have *ou against him<6 )e had gleaned along the same furrows as # had. There was Murdoch&s character and the m*ster* which seemed to hang round the man. )is furious bursts of temper+ as shown in the incident of the dog. The fact that he had >uarrelled with McPherson in the past+ and that there was some reason to thin( that he might have resented his attentions to Miss Bellam*. )e had all m* points+ but no fresh ones+ save that Murdoch seemed to be ma(ing ever* preparation for departure. 6.hat would m* position be if # let him slip awa* with all this evidence against him<6 The burl*+ phlegmatic man was sorel* troubled in his mind. 6Consider+6 # said+ 6all the essential gaps in *our case. 'n the morning of the crime he can surel* prove an alibi. )e had been with his scholars till the last moment+ and within a

few minutes of McPherson&s appearance he came upon us from behind. Then bear in mind the absolute impossibilit* that he could single/handed have inflicted this outrage upon a man >uite as strong as himself. ,inall*+ there is this >uestion of the instrument with which these in=uries were inflicted.6 6.hat could it be but a scourge or fle ible whip of some sort<6 6)ave *ou e amined the mar(s<6 # as(ed. 6# have seen them. So has the doctor.6 6But # have e amined them ver* carefull* with a lens. The* have peculiarities.6 6.hat are the*+ Mr. )olmes<6 # stepped to m* bureau and brought out an enlarged photograph. 6This is m* method in such cases+6 # e plained. 6;ou certainl* do things thoroughl*+ Mr. )olmes.6 6# should hardl* be what # am if # did not. :ow let us consider this weal which e tends round the right shoulder. -o *ou observe nothing remar(able<6 6# can&t sa* # do.6 6Surel* it is evident that it is une>ual in its intensit*. There is a dot of e travasated blood here+ and another there. There are similar indications in this other weal down here. .hat can that mean<6 6# have no idea. )ave *ou<6

6Perhaps # have. Perhaps # haven&t. # ma* be able to sa* more soon. 1n*thing which will define what made that mar( will bring us a long wa* towards the criminal.6 6#t is+ of course+ an absurd idea+6 said the policeman+ 6but if a red/hot net of wire had been laid across the bac(+ then these better mar(ed points would represent where the meshes crossed each other.6 61 most ingenious comparison. 'r shall we sa* a ver* stiff cat/o&/nine/tails with small hard (nots upon it<6 6B* Bove+ Mr. )olmes+ # thin( *ou have hit it.6 6'r there ma* be some ver* different cause+ Mr. Bardle. But *our case is far too wea( for an arrest. Besides+ we have those last words//the &%ion&s Mane.&6 6# have wondered whether #an//6 6;es+ # have considered that. #f the second word had borne an* resemblance to Murdoch//but it did not. )e gave it almost in a shrie(. # am sure that it was &Mane.&6 6)ave *ou no alternative+ Mr. )olmes<6 6Perhaps # have. But # do not care to discuss it until there is something more solid to discuss.6 61nd when will that be<6 6#n an hour//possibl* less.6 The inspector rubbed his chin and loo(ed at me with dubious e*es.

6# wish # could see what was in *our mind+ Mr. )olmes. Perhaps it&s those fishing/boats.6 6:o+ no+ the* were too far out.6 6.ell+ then+ is it Bellam* and that big son of his< The* were not too sweet upon Mr. McPherson. Could the* have done him a mischief<6 6:o+ no+ *ou won&t draw me until # am read*+6 said # with a smile. 6:ow+ #nspector+ we each have our own wor( to do. Perhaps if *ou were to meet me here at midda*//6 So far we had got when there came the tremendous interruption which was the beginning of the end. M* outer door was flung open+ there were blundering footsteps in the passage+ and #an Murdoch staggered into the room+ pallid+ dishevelled+ his clothes in wild disorder+ clawing with his bon* hands at the furniture to hold himself erect. 6Brand*8 Brand*86 he gasped+ and fell groaning upon the sofa. )e was not alone. Behind him came Stac(hurst+ hatless and panting+ almost as distrait as his companion. 6;es+ *es+ brand*86 he cried. 6The man is at his last gasp. #t was all # could do to bring him here. )e fainted twice upon the wa*.6 )alf a tumbler of the raw spirit brought about a wondrous change. )e pushed himself up on one arm and swung his coat from his shoulders. 6,or "od&s sa(e oil+ opium+ morphia86 he cried. 61n*thing to ease this infernal agon*86 The inspector and # cried out at the sight. There+

crisscrossed upon the man&s na(ed shoulder+ was the same strange reticulated pattern of red+ inflamed lines which had been the death/mar( of ,itzro* McPherson. The pain was evidentl* terrible and was more than local+ for the sufferer&s breathing would stop for a time+ his face would turn blac(+ and then with loud gasps he would clap his hand to his heart+ while his brow dropped beads of sweat. 1t an* moment he might die. More and more brand* was poured down his throat+ each fresh dose bringing him bac( to life. Pads of cotton/wool soa(ed in salad/oil seemed to ta(e the agon* from the strange wounds. 1t last his head fell heavil* upon the cushion. 7 hausted :ature had ta(en refuge in its last storehouse of vitalit*. #t was half a sleep and half a faint+ but at least it was ease from pain. To >uestion him had been impossible+ but the moment we were assured of his condition Stac(hurst turned upon me. 6M* "od86 he cried+ 6what is it+ )olmes< .hat is it<6 6.here did *ou find him<6 6-own on the beach. 7 actl* where poor McPherson met his end. #f this man&s heart had been wea( as McPherson&s was+ he would not be here now. More than once # thought he was gone as # brought him up. #t was too far to The "ables+ so # made for *ou.6 6-id *ou see him on the beach<6 6# was wal(ing on the cliff when # heard his cr*. )e was at the edge of the water+ reeling about li(e a drun(en man. # ran down+ threw some clothes about him+ and brought him up. ,or heaven&s sa(e+ )olmes+ use all the powers *ou have and spare no pains to lift the curse from this place+ for life is

becoming unendurable. Can *ou+ with all *our world/wide reputation+ do nothing for us<6 6# thin( # can+ Stac(hurst. Come with me now8 1nd *ou+ #nspector+ come along8 .e will see if we cannot deliver this murderer into *our hands.6 %eaving the unconscious man in the charge of m* house(eeper+ we all three went down to the deadl* lagoon. 'n the shingle there was piled a little heap of towels and clothes left b* the stric(en man. Slowl* # wal(ed round the edge of the water+ m* comrades in #ndian file behind me. Most of the pool was >uite shallow+ but under the cliff where the beach was hollowed out it was four or five feet deep. #t was to this part that a swimmer would naturall* go+ for it formed a beautiful pellucid green pool as clear as cr*stal. 1 line of roc(s la* above it at the base of the cliff+ and along this # led the wa*+ peering eagerl* into the depths beneath me. # had reached the deepest and stillest pool when m* e*es caught that for which the* were searching+ and # burst into a shout of triumph. 6C*anea86 # cried. 6C*anea8 Behold the %ion&s Mane86 The strange ob=ect at which # pointed did indeed loo( li(e a tangled mass torn from the mane of a lion. #t la* upon a roc(* shelf some three feet under the water+ a curious waving+ vibrating+ hair* creature with strea(s of silver among its *ellow tresses. #t pulsated with a slow+ heav* dilation and contraction. 6#t has done mischief enough. #ts da* is over86 # cried. 6)elp me+ Stac(hurst8 %et us end the murderer forever.6 There was a big boulder =ust above the ledge+ and we

pushed it until it fell with a tremendous splash into the water. .hen the ripples had cleared we saw that it had settled upon the ledge below. 'ne flapping edge of *ellow membrane showed that our victim was beneath it. 1 thic( oil* scum oozed out from below the stone and stained the water round+ rising slowl* to the surface. 6.ell+ this gets me86 cried the inspector. 6.hat was it+ Mr. )olmes< #&m born and bred in these parts+ but # never saw such a thing. #t don&t belong to Susse .6 6Bust as well for Susse +6 # remar(ed. 6#t ma* have been the southwest gale that brought it up. Come bac( to m* house+ both of *ou+ and # will give *ou the terrible e perience of one who has good reason to remember his own meeting with the same peril of the seas.6 .hen we reached m* stud* we found that Murdoch was so far recovered that he could sit up. )e was dazed in mind+ and ever* now and then was sha(en b* a paro *sm of pain. #n bro(en words he e plained that he had no notion what had occurred to him+ save that terrific pangs had suddenl* shot through him+ and that it had ta(en all his fortitude to reach the ban(. 6)ere is a boo(+6 # said+ ta(ing up the little volume+ 6which first brought light into what might have been forever dar(. #t is &'ut of -oors&+ b* the famous observer+ B. ". .ood. .ood himself ver* nearl* perished from contact with this vile creature+ so he wrote with a ver* full (nowledge. C*anea capillata is the miscreant&s full name+ and he can be as dangerous to life as+ and far more painful than+ the bite of the cobra. %et me briefl* give this e tract. 6&#f the bather should see a loose roundish mass of tawn*

membranes and fibres+ something li(e ver* large handfuls of lion&s mane and silver paper+ let him beware+ for this is the fearful stinger+ C*anea capillata.& 6Could our sinister ac>uaintance be more clearl* described< 6)e goes on to tell of his own encounter with one when swimming off the coast of Cent. )e found that the creature radiated almost invisible filaments to the distance of fift* feet+ and that an*one within that circumference from the deadl* centre was in danger of death. 7ven at a distance the effect upon .ood was almost fatal. 6&The multitudinous threads caused light scarlet lines upon the s(in which on closer e amination resolved into minute dots or pustules+ each dot charged as it were with a red/hot needle ma(ing its wa* through the nerves.& 6The local pain was+ as he e plains+ the least part of the e >uisite torment. 6&Pangs shot through the chest+ causing me to fall as if struc( b* a bullet. The pulsation would cease+ and then the heart would give si or seven leaps as if it would force its wa* through the chest.& 6#t nearl* (illed him+ although he had onl* been e posed to it in the disturbed ocean and not in the narrow calm waters of a bathing/pool. )e sa*s that he could hardl* recognize himself afterwards+ so white+ wrin(led and shrivelled was his face. )e gulped down brand*+ a whole bottleful+ and it seems to have saved his life. There is the boo(+ #nspector. # leave it with *ou+ and *ou cannot doubt that it contains a full e planation of the traged* of poor McPherson.6 61nd incidentall* e onerates me+6 remar(ed #an Murdoch

with a wr* smile. 6# do not blame *ou+ #nspector+ nor *ou+ Mr. )olmes+ for *our suspicions were natural. # feel that on the ver* eve of m* arrest # have onl* cleared m*self b* sharing the fate of m* poor friend.6 6:o+ Mr. Murdoch. # was alread* upon the trac(+ and had # been out as earl* as # intended # might well have saved *ou from this terrific e perience.6 6But how did *ou (now+ Mr. )olmes<6 6# am an omnivorous reader with a strangel* retentive memor* for trifles. That phrase &the %ion&s Mane& haunted m* mind. # (new that # had seen it somewhere in an une pected conte t. ;ou have seen that it does describe the creature. # have no doubt that it was floating on the water when McPherson saw it+ and that this phrase was the onl* one b* which he could conve* to us a warning as to the creature which had been his death.6 6Then #+ at least+ am cleared+6 said Murdoch+ rising slowl* to his feet. 6There are one or two words of e planation which # should give+ for # (now the direction in which *our in>uiries have run. #t is true that # loved this lad*+ but from the da* when she chose m* friend McPherson m* one desire was to help her to happiness. # was well content to stand aside and act as their go/between. 'ften # carried their messages+ and it was because # was in their confidence and because she was so dear to me that # hastened to tell her of m* friend&s death+ lest someone should forestall me in a more sudden and heartless manner. She would not tell *ou+ sir+ of our relations lest *ou should disapprove and # might suffer. But with *our leave # must tr* to get bac( to The "ables+ for m* bed will be ver* welcome.6

Stac(hurst held out his hand. 6'ur nerves have all been at concert/pitch+6 said he. 6,orgive what is past+ Murdoch. .e shall understand each other better in the future.6 The* passed out together with their arms lin(ed in friendl* fashion. The inspector remained+ staring at me in silence with his o / li(e e*es. 6.ell+ *ou&ve done it86 he cried at last. 6# had read of *ou+ but # never believed it. #t&s wonderful86 # was forced to sha(e m* head. To accept such praise was to lower one&s own standards. 6# was slow at the outset//culpabl* slow. )ad the bod* been found in the water # could hardl* have missed it. #t was the towel which misled me. The poor fellow had never thought to dr* himself+ and so # in turn was led to believe that he had never been in the water. .h*+ then+ should the attac( of an* water creature suggest itself to me< That was where # went astra*. .ell+ well+ #nspector+ # often ventured to chaff *ou gentlemen of the police force+ but C*anea capillata ver* nearl* avenged Scotland ;ard.6

AD$"!T%#" +&' TH" AD$"!T%#" $"&*"D * DG"#

F TH"

.hen one considers that Mr. Sherloc( )olmes was in active practice for twent*/three *ears+ and that during seventeen of these # was allowed to cooperate with him and to (eep notes of his doings+ it will be clear that # have a mass of material at m* command. The problem has alwa*s been not to find but to choose. There is the long row of *ear/boo(s which fill a shelf and there are the dispatch/cases filled with documents+ a perfect >uarr* for the student not onl* of crime but of the

social and official scandals of the late !ictorian era. Concerning these latter+ # ma* sa* that the writers of agonized letters+ who beg that the honour of their families or the reputation of famous forebears ma* not be touched+ have nothing to fear. The discretion and high sense of professional honour which have alwa*s distinguished m* friend are still at wor( in the choice of these memoirs+ and no confidence will be abused. # deprecate+ however+ in the strongest wa* the attempts which have been made latel* to get at and to destro* these papers. The source of these outrages is (nown+ and if the* are repeated # have Mr. )olmes&s authorit* for sa*ing that the whole stor* concerning the politician+ the lighthouse+ and the trained cormorant will be given to the public. There is at least one reader who will understand. #t is not reasonable to suppose that ever* one of these cases gave )olmes the opportunit* of showing those curious gifts of instinct and observation which # have endeavoured to set forth in these memoirs. Sometimes he had with much effort to pic( the fruit+ sometimes it fell easil* into his lap. But the most terrible human tragedies were often involved in those cases which brought him the fewest personal opportunities+ and it is one of these which # now desire to record. #n telling it+ # have made a slight change of name and place+ but otherwise the facts are as stated. 'ne forenoon//it was late in 235?//# received a hurried note from )olmes as(ing for m* attendance. .hen # arrived # found him seated in a smo(e/laden atmosphere+ with an elderl*+ motherl* woman of the bu om landlad* t*pe in the corresponding chair in front of him. 6This is Mrs. Merrilow+ of South Bri ton+6 said m* friend with a wave of the hand. 6Mrs. Merrilow does not ob=ect to

tobacco+ .atson+ if *ou wish to indulge *our filth* habits. Mrs. Merrilow has an interesting stor* to tell which ma* well lead to further developments in which *our presence ma* be useful.6 61n*thing # can do//6 6;ou will understand+ Mrs. Merrilow+ that if # come to Mrs. $onder # should prefer to have a witness. ;ou will ma(e her understand that before we arrive.6 6%ord bless *ou+ Mr. )olmes+6 said our visitor+ 6she is that an ious to see *ou that *ou might bring the whole parish at *our heels86 6Then we shall come earl* in the afternoon. %et us see that we have our facts correct before we start. #f we go over them it will help -r. .atson to understand the situation. ;ou sa* that Mrs. $onder has been *our lodger for seven *ears and that *ou have onl* once seen her face.6 61nd # wish to "od # had not86 said Mrs. Merrilow. 6#t was+ # understand+ terribl* mutilated.6 6.ell+ Mr. )olmes+ *ou would hardl* sa* it was a face at all. That&s how it loo(ed. 'ur mil(man got a glimpse of her once peeping out of the upper window+ and he dropped his tin and the mil( all over the front garden. That is the (ind of face it is. .hen # saw her//# happened on her unawares//she covered up >uic(+ and then she said+ &:ow+ Mrs. Merrilow+ *ou (now at last wh* it is that # never raise m* veil.&6 6-o *ou (now an*thing about her histor*<6 6:othing at all.6

6-id she give references when she came<6 6:o+ sir+ but she gave hard cash+ and plent* of it. 1 >uarter&s rent right down on the table in advance and no arguing about terms. #n these times a poor woman li(e me can&t afford to turn down a chance li(e that.6 6-id she give an* reason for choosing *our house<6 6Mine stands well bac( from the road and is more private than most. Then+ again+ # onl* ta(e the one+ and # have no famil* of m* own. # rec(on she had tried others and found that mine suited her best. #t&s privac* she is after+ and she is read* to pa* for it.6 6;ou sa* that she never showed her face from first to last save on the one accidental occasion. .ell+ it is a ver* remar(able stor*+ most remar(able+ and # don&t wonder that *ou want it e amined.6 6# don&t+ Mr. )olmes. # am >uite satisfied so long as # get m* rent. ;ou could not have a >uieter lodger+ or one who gives less trouble.6 6Then what has brought matters to a head<6 6)er health+ Mr. )olmes. She seems to be wasting awa*. 1nd there&s something terrible on her mind. &Murder8& she cries. &Murder8& 1nd once # heard her@ &;ou cruel beast8 ;ou monster8& she cried. #t was in the night+ and it fair rang through the house and sent the shivers through me. So # went to her in the morning. &Mrs. $onder+& # sa*s+ &if *ou have an*thing that is troubling *our soul+ there&s the clerg*+& # sa*s+ &and there&s the police. Between them *ou should get some help.& &,or "od&s sa(e+ not the police8& sa*s she+ &and the clerg* can&t change what is past. 1nd *et+& she sa*s+ &it would

ease m* mind if someone (new the truth before # died.& &.ell+& sa*s #+ &if *ou won&t have the regulars+ there is this detective man what we read about&//beggin& *our pardon+ Mr. )olmes. 1nd she+ she fair =umped at it. &That&s the man+& sa*s she. &# wonder # never thought of it before. Bring him here+ Mrs. Merrilow+ and if he won&t come+ tell him # am the wife of $onder&s wild beast show. Sa* that+ and give him the name 1bbas Parva. )ere it is as she wrote it+ 1bbas Parva. &That will bring him if he&s the man # thin( he is.&6 61nd it will+ too+6 remar(ed )olmes. 6!er* good+ Mrs. Merrilow. # should li(e to have a little chat with -r. .atson. That will carr* us till lunch/time. 1bout three o&cloc( *ou ma* e pect to see us at *our house in Bri ton.6 'ur visitor had no sooner waddled out of the room//no other verb can describe Mrs. Merrilow&s method of progression// than Sherloc( )olmes threw himself with fierce energ* upon the pile of commonplace boo(s in the corner. ,or a few minutes there was a constant swish of the leaves+ and then with a grunt of satisfaction he came upon what he sought. So e cited was he that he did not rise+ but sat upon the floor li(e some strange Buddha+ with crossed legs+ the huge boo(s all round him+ and one open upon his (nees. 6The case worried me at the time+ .atson. )ere are m* marginal notes to prove it. # confess that # could ma(e nothing of it. 1nd *et # was convinced that the coroner was wrong. )ave *ou no recollection of the 1bbas Parva traged*<6 6:one+ )olmes.6 61nd *et *ou were with me then. But certainl* m* own impression was ver* superficial. ,or there was nothing to go

b*+ and none of the parties had engaged m* services. Perhaps *ou would care to read the papers<6 6Could *ou not give me the points<6 6That is ver* easil* done. #t will probabl* come bac( to *our memor* as # tal(. $onder+ of course+ was a household word. )e was the rival of .ombwell+ and of Sanger+ one of the greatest showmen of his da*. There is evidence+ however+ that he too( to drin(+ and that both he and his show were on the down grade at the time of the great traged*. The caravan had halted for the night at 1bbas Parva+ which is a small village in Ber(shire+ when this horror occurred. The* were on their wa* to .imbledon+ travelling b* road+ and the* were simpl* camping and not e hibiting+ as the place is so small a one that it would not have paid them to open. 6The* had among their e hibits a ver* fine :orth 1frican lion. Sahara Cing was its name+ and it was the habit+ both of $onder and his wife+ to give e hibitions inside its cage. )ere+ *ou see+ is a photograph of the performance b* which *ou will perceive that $onder was a huge porcine person and that his wife was a ver* magnificent woman. #t was deposed at the in>uest that there had been some signs that the lion was dangerous+ but+ as usual+ familiarit* begat contempt+ and no notice was ta(en of the fact. 6#t was usual for either $onder or his wife to feed the lion at night. Sometimes one went+ sometimes both+ but the* never allowed an*one else to do it+ for the* believed that so long as the* were the food/carriers he would regard them as benefactors and would never molest them. 'n this particular night+ seven *ears ago+ the* both went+ and a ver* terrible happening followed+ the details of which have never been made clear.

6#t seems that the whole camp was roused near midnight b* the roars of the animal and the screams of the woman. The different grooms and emplo*ees rushed from their tents+ carr*ing lanterns+ and b* their light an awful sight was revealed. $onder la*+ with the bac( of his head crushed in and deep claw/mar(s across his scalp+ some ten *ards from the cage+ which was open. Close to the door of the cage la* Mrs. $onder upon her bac(+ with the creature s>uatting and snarling above her. #t had torn her face in such a fashion that it was never thought that she could live. Several of the circus men+ headed b* %eonardo+ the strong man+ and "riggs+ the clown+ drove the creature off with poles+ upon which it sprang bac( into the cage and was at once loc(ed in. )ow it had got loose was a m*ster*. #t was con=ectured that the pair intended to enter the cage+ but that when the door was loosed the creature bounded out upon them. There was no other point of interest in the evidence save that the woman in a delirium of agon* (ept screaming+ &Coward8 Coward8& as she was carried bac( to the van in which the* lived. #t was si months before she was fit to give evidence+ but the in>uest was dul* held+ with the obvious verdict of death from misadventure.6 6.hat alternative could be conceived<6 said #. 6;ou ma* well sa* so. 1nd *et there were one or two points which worried *oung 7dmunds+ of the Ber(shire Constabular*. 1 smart lad that8 )e was sent later to 1llahabad. That was how # came into the matter+ for he dropped in and smo(ed a pipe or two over it.6 61 thin+ *ellow/haired man<6 67 actl*. # was sure *ou would pic( up the trail presentl*.6

6But what worried him<6 6.ell+ we were both worried. #t was so deucedl* difficult to reconstruct the affair. %oo( at it from the lion&s point of view. )e is liberated. .hat does he do< )e ta(es half a dozen bounds forward+ which brings him to $onder. $onder turns to fl*//the claw/mar(s were on the bac( of his head//but the lion stri(es him down. Then+ instead of bounding on and escaping+ he returns to the woman+ who was close to the cage+ and he (noc(s her over and chews her face up. Then+ again+ those cries of hers would seem to impl* that her husband had in some wa* failed her. .hat could the poor devil have done to help her< ;ou see the difficult*<6 6Guite.6 61nd then there was another thing. #t comes bac( to me now as # thin( it over. There was some evidence that =ust at the time the lion roared and the woman screamed+ a man began shouting in terror.6 6This man $onder+ no doubt.6 6.ell+ if his s(ull was smashed in *ou would hardl* e pect to hear from him again. There were at least two witnesses who spo(e of the cries of a man being mingled with those of a woman.6 6# should thin( the whole camp was cr*ing out b* then. 1s to the other points+ # thin( # could suggest a solution.6 6# should be glad to consider it.6 6The two were together+ ten *ards from the cage+ when the lion got loose. The man turned and was struc( down. The woman conceived the idea of getting into the cage and

shutting the door. #t was her onl* refuge. She made for it+ and =ust as she reached it the beast bounded after her and (noc(ed her over. She was angr* with her husband for having encouraged the beast&s rage b* turning. #f the* had faced it the* might have cowed it. )ence her cries of &Coward8&6 6Brilliant+ .atson8 'nl* one flaw in *our diamond.6 6.hat is the flaw+ )olmes<6 6#f the* were both ten paces from the cage+ how came the beast to get loose<6 6#s it possible that the* had some enem* who loosed it<6 61nd wh* should it attac( them savagel* when it was in the habit of pla*ing with them+ and doing tric(s with them inside the cage<6 6Possibl* the same enem* had done something to enrage it.6 )olmes loo(ed thoughtful and remained in silence for some moments. 6.ell+ .atson+ there is this to be said for *our theor*. $onder was a man of man* enemies. 7dmunds told me that in his cups he was horrible. 1 huge bull* of a man+ he cursed and slashed at ever*one who came in his wa*. # e pect those cries about a monster+ of which our visitor has spo(en+ were nocturnal reminiscences of the dear departed. )owever+ our speculations are futile until we have all the facts. There is a cold partridge on the sideboard+ .atson+ and a bottle of Montrachet. %et us renew our energies before we ma(e a fresh call upon them.6

.hen our hansom deposited us at the house of Mrs. Merrilow+ we found that plump lad* bloc(ing up the open door of her humble but retired abode. #t was ver* clear that her chief preoccupation was lest she should lose a valuable lodger+ and she implored us+ before showing us up+ to sa* and do nothing which could lead to so undesirable an end. Then+ having reassured her+ we followed her up the straight+ badl* carpeted staircase and were shown into the room of the m*sterious lodger. #t was a close+ must*+ ill/ventilated place+ as might be e pected+ since its inmate seldom left it. ,rom (eeping beasts in a cage+ the woman seemed+ b* some retribution of fate+ to have become herself a beast in a cage. She sat now in a bro(en armchair in the shadow* corner of the room. %ong *ears of inaction had coarsened the lines of her figure+ but at some period it must have been beautiful+ and was still full and voluptuous. 1 thic( dar( veil covered her face+ but it was cut off close at her upper lip and disclosed a perfectl* shaped mouth and a delicatel* rounded chin. # could well conceive that she had indeed been a ver* remar(able woman. )er voice+ too+ was well modulated and pleasing. 6M* name is not unfamiliar to *ou+ Mr. )olmes+6 said she. 6# thought that it would bring *ou.6 6That is so+ madam+ though # do not (now how *ou are aware that # was interested in *our case.6 6# learned it when # had recovered m* health and was e amined b* Mr. 7dmunds+ the count* detective. # fear # lied to him. Perhaps it would have been wiser had # told the truth.6 6#t is usuall* wiser to tell the truth. But wh* did *ou lie to

him<6 6Because the fate of someone else depended upon it. # (now that he was a ver* worthless being+ and *et # would not have his destruction upon m* conscience. .e had been so close// so close86 6But has this impediment been removed<6 6;es+ sir. The person that # allude to is dead.6 6Then wh* should *ou not now tell the police an*thing *ou (now<6 6Because there is another person to be considered. That other person is m*self. # could not stand the scandal and publicit* which would come from a police e amination. # have not long to live+ but # wish to die undisturbed. 1nd *et # wanted to find one man of =udgment to whom # could tell m* terrible stor*+ so that when # am gone all might be understood.6 6;ou compliment me+ madam. 1t the same time+ # am a responsible person. # do not promise *ou that when *ou have spo(en # ma* not m*self thin( it m* dut* to refer the case to the police.6 6# thin( not+ Mr. )olmes. # (now *our character and methods too well+ for # have followed *our wor( for some *ears. $eading is the onl* pleasure which fate has left me+ and # miss little which passes in the world. But in an* case+ # will ta(e m* chance of the use which *ou ma* ma(e of m* traged*. #t will ease m* mind to tell it.6 6M* friend and # would be glad to hear it.6

The woman rose and too( from a drawer the photograph of a man. )e was clearl* a professional acrobat+ a man of magnificent ph*si>ue+ ta(en with his huge arms folded across his swollen chest and a smile brea(ing from under his heav* moustache//the self/satisfied smile of the man of man* con>uests. 6That is %eonardo+6 she said. 6%eonardo+ the strong man+ who gave evidence<6 6The same. 1nd this//this is m* husband.6 #t was a dreadful face//a human pig+ or rather a human wild boar+ for it was formidable in its bestialit*. 'ne could imagine that vile mouth champing and foaming in its rage+ and one could conceive those small+ vicious e*es darting pure malignanc* as the* loo(ed forth upon the world. $uffian+ bull*+ beast//it was all written on that heav*/=owled face. 6Those two pictures will help *ou+ gentlemen+ to understand the stor*. # was a poor circus girl brought up on the sawdust+ and doing springs through the hoop before # was ten. .hen # became a woman this man loved me+ if such lust as his can be called love+ and in an evil moment # became his wife. ,rom that da* # was in hell+ and he the devil who tormented me. There was no one in the show who did not (now of his treatment. )e deserted me for others. )e tied me down and lashed me with his ridingwhip when # complained. The* all pitied me and the* all loathed him+ but what could the* do< The* feared him+ one and all. ,or he was terrible at all times+ and murderous when he was drun(. 1gain and again he was had up for assault+ and for cruelt* to the beasts+ but he had plent* of mone* and the fines were nothing to him. The best men all left us+ and the show began to go downhill. #t was

onl* %eonardo and # who (ept it up//with little Bimm* "riggs+ the clown. Poor devil+ he had not much to be funn* about+ but he did what he could to hold things together. 6Then %eonardo came more and more into m* life. ;ou see what he was li(e. # (now now the poor spirit that was hidden in that splendid bod*+ but compared to m* husband he seemed li(e the angel "abriel. )e pitied me and helped me+ till at last our intimac* turned to love//deep+ deep+ passionate love+ such love as # had dreamed of but never hoped to feel. M* husband suspected it+ but # thin( that he was a coward as well as a bull*+ and that %eonardo was the one man that he was afraid of. )e too( revenge in his own wa* b* torturing me more than ever. 'ne night m* cries brought %eonardo to the door of our van. .e were near traged* that night+ and soon m* lover and # understood that it could not be avoided. M* husband was not fit to live. .e planned that he should die. 6%eonardo had a clever+ scheming brain. #t was he who planned it. # do not sa* that to blame him+ for # was read* to go with him ever* inch of the wa*. But # should never have had the wit to thin( of such a plan. .e made a club// %eonardo made it//and in the leaden head he fastened five long steel nails+ the points outward+ with =ust such a spread as the lion&s paw. This was to give m* husband his death/ blow+ and *et to leave the evidence that it was the lion which we would loose who had done the deed. 6#t was a pitch/dar( night when m* husband and # went down+ as was our custom+ to feed the beast. .e carried with us the raw meat in a zinc pail. %eonardo was waiting at the corner of the big van which we should have to pass before we reached the cage. )e was too slow+ and we wal(ed past him before he could stri(e+ but he followed us on tiptoe and #

heard the crash as the club smashed m* husband&s s(ull. M* heart leaped with =o* at the sound. # sprang forward+ and # undid the catch which held the door of the great lion&s cage. 61nd then the terrible thing happened. ;ou ma* have heard how >uic( these creatures are to scent human blood+ and how it e cites them. Some strange instinct had told the creature in one instant that a human being had been slain. 1s # slipped the bars it bounded out and was on me in an instant. %eonardo could have saved me. #f he had rushed forward and struc( the beast with his club he might have cowed it. But the man lost his nerve. # heard him shout in his terror+ and then # saw him turn and fl*. 1t the same instant the teeth of the lion met in m* face. #ts hot+ filth* breath had alread* poisoned me and # was hardl* conscious of pain. .ith the palms of m* hands # tried to push the great steaming+ blood/stained =aws awa* from me+ and # screamed for help. # was conscious that the camp was stirring+ and then diml* # remembered a group of men. %eonardo+ "riggs+ and others+ dragging me from under the creature&s paws. That was m* last memor*+ Mr. )olmes+ for man* a wear* month. .hen # came to m*self and saw m*self in the mirror+ # cursed that lion//oh+ how # cursed him8//not because he had torn awa* m* beaut* but because he had not torn awa* m* life. # had but one desire+ Mr. )olmes+ and # had enough mone* to gratif* it. #t was that # should cover m*self so that m* poor face should be seen b* none+ and that # should dwell where none whom # had ever (nown should find me. That was all that was left to me to do//and that is what # have done. 1 poor wounded beast that has crawled into its hole to die//that is the end of 7ugenia $onder.6 .e sat in silence for some time after the unhapp* woman had told her stor*. Then )olmes stretched out his long arm and patted her hand with such a show of s*mpath* as # had

seldom (nown him to e hibit. 6Poor girl86 he said. 6Poor girl8 The wa*s of fate are indeed hard to understand. #f there is not some compensation hereafter+ then the world is a cruel =est. But what of this man %eonardo<6 6# never saw him or heard from him again. Perhaps # have been wrong to feel so bitterl* against him. )e might as soon have loved one of the frea(s whom we carried round the countr* as the thing which the lion had left. But a woman&s love is not so easil* set aside. )e had left me under the beast&s claws+ he had deserted me in m* need+ and *et # could not bring m*self to give him to the gallows. ,or m*self+ # cared nothing what became of me. .hat could be more dreadful than m* actual life< But # stood between %eonardo and his fate.6 61nd he is dead<6 6)e was drowned last month when bathing near Margate. # saw his death in the paper.6 61nd what did he do with this five/clawed club+ which is the most singular and ingenious part of all *our stor*<6 6# cannot tell+ Mr. )olmes. There is a chal(/pit b* the camp+ with a deep green pool at the base of it. Perhaps in the depths of that pool //6 6.ell+ well+ it is of little conse>uence now. The case is closed.6 6;es+6 said the woman+ 6the case is closed.6 .e had risen to go+ but there was something in the woman&s

voice which arrested )olmes&s attention. )e turned swiftl* upon her. 6;our life is not *our own+6 he said. 6Ceep *our hands off it.6 6.hat use is it to an*one<6 6)ow can *ou tell< The e ample of patient suffering is in itself the most precious of all lessons to an impatient world.6 The woman&s answer was a terrible one. She raised her veil and stepped forward into the light. 6# wonder if *ou would bear it+6 she said. #t was horrible. :o words can describe the framewor( of a face when the face itself is gone. Two living and beautiful brown e*es loo(ing sadl* out from that grisl* ruin did but ma(e the view more awful. )olmes held up his hand in a gesture of pit* and protest+ and together we left the room. Two da*s later+ when # called upon m* friend+ he pointed with some pride to a small blue bottle upon his mantelpiece. # pic(ed it up. There was a red poison label. 1 pleasant almond* odour rose when # opened it. 6Prussic acid<6 said #. 67 actl*. #t came b* post. &# send *ou m* temptation. # will follow *our advice.& That was the message. # thin(+ .atson+ we can guess the name of the brave woman who sent it.6

AD$"!T%#" +&&' TH" AD$"!T%#" SH SC M)" *D P*AC"

Sherloc( )olmes had been bending for a long time over a low/power microscope. :ow he straightened himself up and loo(ed round at me in triumph. 6#t is glue+ .atson+6 said he. 69n>uestionabl* it is glue. )ave a loo( at these scattered ob=ects in the field86 # stooped to the e*epiece and focussed for m* vision. 6Those hairs are threads from a tweed coat. The irregular gra* masses are dust. There are epithelial scales on the left. Those brown blobs in the centre are undoubtedl* glue.6 6.ell+6 # said+ laughing+ 6# am prepared to ta(e *our word for it. -oes an*thing depend upon it<6 6#t is a ver* fine demonstration+6 he answered. 6#n the St. Pancras case *ou ma* remember that a cap was found beside the dead policeman. The accused man denies that it is his. But he is a picture/frame ma(er who habituall* handles glue.6 6#s it one of *our cases<6 6:o0 m* friend+ Merivale+ of the ;ard+ as(ed me to loo( into the case. Since # ran down that coiner b* the zinc and copper filings in the seam of his cuff the* have begun to realize the importance of the microscope.6 )e loo(ed impatientl* at his watch. 6# had a new client calling+ but he is overdue. B* the wa*+ .atson+ *ou (now something of racing<6 6# ought to. # pa* for it with about half m* wound pension.6 6Then #&ll ma(e *ou m* &)and* "uide to the Turf.& .hat about Sir $obert :orberton< -oes the name recall

an*thing<6 6.ell+ # should sa* so. )e lives at Shoscombe 'ld Place+ and # (now it well+ for m* summer >uarters were down there once. :orberton nearl* came within *our province once.6 6)ow was that<6 6#t was when he horsewhipped Sam Brewer+ the well/(nown Curzon Street mone*/lender+ on :ewmar(et )eath. )e nearl* (illed the man.6 61h+ he sounds interesting8 -oes he often indulge in that wa*<6 6.ell+ he has the name of being a dangerous man. )e is about the most daredevil rider in 7ngland//second in the "rand :ational a few *ears bac(. )e is one of those men who have overshot their true generation. )e should have been a buc( in the da*s of the $egenc*//a bo er+ an athlete+ a plunger on the turf+ a lover of fair ladies+ and+ b* all account+ so far down Gueer Street that he ma* never find his wa* bac( again.6 6Capital+ .atson8 1 thumb/nail s(etch. # seem to (now the man. :ow+ can *ou give me some idea of Shoscombe 'ld Place<6 6'nl* that it is in the centre of Shoscombe Par(+ and that the famous Shoscombe stud and training >uarters are to be found there.6 61nd the head trainer+6 said )olmes+ 6is Bohn Mason. ;ou need not loo( surprised at m* (nowledge+ .atson+ for this is a letter from him which # am unfolding. But let us have some more about Shoscombe. # seem to have struc( a rich vein.6

6There are the Shoscombe spaniels+6 said #. 6;ou hear of them at ever* dog show. The most e clusive breed in 7ngland. The* are the special pride of the lad* of Shoscombe 'ld Place.6 6Sir $obert :orberton&s wife+ # presume86 6Sir $obert has never married. Bust as well+ # thin(+ considering his prospects. )e lives with his widowed sister+ %ad* Beatrice ,alder.6 6;ou mean that she lives with him<6 6:o+ no. The place belonged to her late husband+ Sir Bames. :orberton has no claim on it at all. #t is onl* a life interest and reverts to her husband&s brother. Meantime+ she draws the rents ever* *ear.6 61nd brother $obert+ # suppose+ spends the said rents<6 6That is about the size of it. )e is a devil of a fellow and must lead her a most uneas* life. ;et # have heard that she is devoted to him. But what is amiss at Shoscombe<6 61h+ that is =ust what # want to (now. 1nd here+ # e pect+ is the man who can tell us.6 The door had opened and the page had shown in a tall+ clean/shaven man with the firm+ austere e pression which is onl* seen upon those who have to control horses or bo*s. Mr. Bohn Mason had man* of both under his swa*+ and he loo(ed e>ual to the tas(. )e bowed with cold self/possession and seated himself upon the chair to which )olmes had waved him. 6;ou had m* note+ Mr. )olmes<6

6;es+ but it e plained nothing.6 6#t was too delicate a thing for me to put the details on paper. 1nd too complicated. #t was onl* face to face # could do it.6 6.ell+ we are at *our disposal.6 6,irst of all+ Mr. )olmes+ # thin( that m* emplo*er+ Sir $obert+ has gone mad.6 )olmes raised his e*ebrows. 6This is Ba(er Street+ not )arle* Street+6 said he. 6But wh* do *ou sa* so<6 6.ell+ sir+ when a man does one >ueer thing+ or two >ueer things+ there ma* be a meaning to it+ but when ever*thing he does is >ueer+ then *ou begin to wonder. # believe Shoscombe Prince and the -erb* have turned his brain.6 6That is a colt *ou are running<6 6The best in 7ngland+ Mr. )olmes. # should (now+ if an*one does. :ow+ #&ll be plain with *ou+ for # (now *ou are gentlemen of honour and that it won&t go be*ond the room. Sir $obert has got to win this -erb*. )e&s up to the nec(+ and it&s his last chance. 7ver*thing he could raise or borrow is on the horse//and at fine odds+ too8 ;ou can get forties now+ but it was nearer the hundred when he began to bac( him.6 6But how is that if the horse is so good<6 6The public don&t (now how good he is. Sir $obert has been too clever for the touts. )e has the Prince&s half/brother out for spins. ;ou can&t tell &em apart. But there are two lengths in a furlong between them when it comes to a gallop. )e thin(s of nothing but the horse and the race. )is whole life is

on it. )e&s holding off the Bews till then. #f the Prince fails him he is done.6 6#t seems a rather desperate gamble+ but where does the madness come in<6 6.ell+ first of all+ *ou have onl* to loo( at him. # don&t believe he sleeps at night. )e is down at the stables at all hours. )is e*es are wild. #t has all been too much for his nerves. Then there is his conduct to %ad* Beatrice86 61h8 .hat is that<6 6The* have alwa*s been the best of friends. The* had the same tastes+ the two of them+ and she loved the horses as much as he did. 7ver* da* at the same hour she would drive down to see them//and+ above all+ she loved the Prince. )e would pric( up his ears when he heard the wheels on the gravel+ and he would trot out each morning to the carriage to get his lump of sugar. But that&s all over now.6 6.h*<6 6.ell+ she seems to have lost all interest in the horses. ,or a wee( now she has driven past the stables with never so much as &"ood/morning&86 6;ou thin( there has been a >uarrel<6 61nd a bitter+ savage+ spitelful >uarrel at that. .h* else would he give awa* her pet spaniel that she loved as if he were her child< )e gave it a few da*s ago to old Barnes+ what (eeps the "reen -ragon+ three miles off+ at Crendall.6 6That certainl* did seem strange.6

6'f course+ with her wea( heart and drops* one couldn&t e pect that she could get about with him+ but he spent two hours ever* evening in her room. )e might well do what he could+ for she has been a rare good friend to him. But that&s all over+ too. )e never goes near her. 1nd she ta(es it to heart. She is brooding and sul(* and drin(ing+ Mr. )olmes// drin(ing li(e a fish.6 6-id she drin( before this estrangement<6 6.ell+ she too( her glass+ but now it is often a whole bottle of an evening. So Stephens+ the butler+ told me. #t&s all changed+ Mr. )olmes+ and there is something damned rotten about it. But then+ again+ what is master doing down at the old church cr*pt at night< 1nd who is the man that meets him there<6 )olmes rubbed his hands. 6"o on+ Mr. Mason. ;ou get more and more interesting.6 6#t was the butler who saw him go. Twelve o&cloc( at night and raining hard. So ne t night # was up at the house and+ sure enough+ master was off again. Stephens and # went after him+ but it was =ump* wor(+ for it would have been a bad =ob if he had seen us. )e&s a terrible man with his fists if he gets started+ and no respecter of persons. So we were sh* of getting too near+ but we mar(ed him down all light. #t was the haunted cr*pt that he was ma(ing for+ and there was a man waiting for him there.6 6.hat is this haunted cr*p<6 6.ell+ sir+ there is an old ruined chapel in the par(. #t is so old that nobod* could fi its date. 1nd under it there&s a cr*pt which has a bad name among us. #t&s a dar(+ damp+ lonel*

place b* da*+ but there are few in that count* that would have the nerve to go near it at night. But master&s not afraid. )e never feared an*thing in his life. But what is he doing there in the night/time<6 6.ait a bit86 said )olmes. 6;ou sa* there is another man there. #t must be one of *our own stablemen+ or someone from the house8 Surel* *ou have onl* to spot who it is and >uestion him<6 6#t&s no one # (now.6 6)ow can *ou sa* that<6 6Because # have seen him+ Mr. )olmes. #t was on that second night. Sir $obert turned and passed us//me and Stephens+ >ua(ing in the bushes li(e two bunn*/rabbits+ for there was a bit of moon that night. But we could hear the other moving about behind. .e were not afraid of him. So we up when Sir $obert was gone and pretended we were =ust having a wal( li(e in the moonlight+ and so we came right on him as casual and innocent as *ou please. &)ullo+ mate8 who ma* *ou be<& sa*s #. # guess he had not heard us coming+ so he loo(ed over his shoulder with a face as if he had seen the devil coming out of hell. )e let out a *ell+ and awa* he went as hard as he could lic( it in the dar(ness. )e could run8 //#&ll give him that. #n a minute he was out of sight and hearing+ and who he was+ or what he was+ we never found.6 6But *ou saw him clearl* in the moonlight<6 6;es+ # would swear to his *ellow face//a mean dog+ # should sa*. .hat could he have in common with Sir $obert<6 )olmes sat for some time lost in thought.

6.ho (eeps %ad* Beatrice ,alder compan*<6 he as(ed at last. 6There is her maid+ Carrie 7vans. She has been with her this five *ears.6 61nd is+ no doubt+ devoted<6 Mr. Mason shuffled uncomfortabl*. 6She&s devoted enough+6 he answered at last. 6But # won&t sa* to whom.6 61h86 said )olmes. 6# can&t tell tales out of school.6 6# >uite understand+ Mr. Mason. 'f course+ the situation is clear enough. ,rom -r. .atson&s description of Sir $obert # can realize that no woman is safe from him. -on&t *ou thin( the >uarrel between brother and sister ma* lie there<6 6.ell+ the scandal has been prett* clear for a long time.6 6But she ma* not have seen it before. %et us suppose that she has suddenl* found it out. She wants to get rid of the woman. )er brother will not permit it. The invalid+ with her wea( heart and inabilit* to get about+ has no means of enforcing her will. The hated maid is still tied to her. The lad* refuses to spea(+ sul(s+ ta(es to drin(. Sir $obert in his anger ta(es her pet spaniel awa* from her. -oes not all this hang together<6 6.ell+ it might do//so far as it goes.6 67 actl*8 1s far as it goes. )ow would all that bear upon the

visits b* night to the old cr*pt< .e can&t fit that into our plot.6 6:o+ sir+ and there is something more that # can&t fit in. .h* should Sir $obert want to dig up a dead bod*<6 )olmes sat up abruptl*. 6.e onl* found it out *esterda*//after # had written to *ou. ;esterda* Sir $obert had gone to %ondon+ so Stephens and # went down to the cr*pt. #t was all in order+ sir+ e cept that in one corner was a bit of a human bod*.6 6;ou informed the police+ # suppose<6 'ur visitor smiled griml*. 6.ell+ sir+ # thin( it would hardl* interest them. #t was =ust the head and a few bones of a mumm*. #t ma* have been a thousand *ears old. But it wasn&t there before. That #&ll swear+ and so will Stephens. #t had been stowed awa* in a corner and covered over with a board+ but that corner had alwa*s been empt* before.6 6.hat did *ou do with it<6 6.ell+ we =ust left it there.6 6That was wise. ;ou sa* Sir $obert was awa* *esterda*. )as he returned<6 6.e e pect him bac( to/da*.6 6.hen did Sir $obert give awa* his sister&s dog<6 6#t was =ust a wee( ago to/da*. The creature was howling outside the old wellhouse+ and Sir $obert was in one of his

tantrums that morning. )e caught it up+ and # thought he would have (illed it. Then he gave it to Sand* Bain+ the =oc(e*+ and told him to ta(e the dog to old Barnes at the "reen -ragon+ for he never wished to see it again.6 )olmes sat for some time in silent thought. )e had lit the oldest and foulest of his pipes. 6# am not clear *et what *ou want me to do in this matter+ Mr. Mason+6 he said at last. 6Can&t *ou ma(e it more definite<6 6Perhaps this will ma(e it more definite+ Mr. )olmes+6 said our visltor. )e too( a paper from his poc(et+ and+ unwrapping it carefull*+ he e posed a charred fragment of bone. )olmes e amined it with interest. 6.here did *ou get it<6 6There is a central heating furnace in the cellar under %ad* Beatrice&s room. #t&s been off for some time+ but Sir $obert complained of cold and had it on again. 6)arve* runs it//he&s one of m* lads. This ver* morning he came to me with this which he found ra(ing out the cinders. )e didn&t li(e the loo( of it.6 6:or do #+6 said )olmes. 6.hat do *ou ma(e of it+ .atson<6 #t was burned to a blac( cinder+ but there could be no >uestion as to its anatomical significance. 6#t&s the upper cond*le of a human femur+6 said #.

67 actl*86 )olmes had become ver* serious. 6.hen does this lad tend to the furnace<6 6)e ma(es it up ever* evening and then leaves it.6 6Then an*one could visit it during the night<6 6;es+ sir.6 6Can *ou enter it from outside<6 6There is one door from outside. There is another which leads up b* a stair to the passage in which %ad* Beatrice&s room is situated.6 6These are deep waters+ Mr. Mason0 deep and rather dirt*. ;ou sa* that Sir $obert was not at home last night<6 6:o+ sir.6 6Then+ whoever was burning bones+ it was not he.6 6That&s true. sir.6 6.hat is the name of that inn *ou spo(e of<6 6The "reen -ragon.6 6#s there good fishing in that part of Ber(shire<6 The honest trainer showed ver* clearl* upon his face that he was convinced that *et another lunatic had come into his harassed life. 6.ell+ sir+ #&ve heard there are trout in the mill/stream and pi(e in the )all la(e.6

6That&s good enough. .atson and # are famous fishermen// are we not+ .atson< ;ou ma* address us in future at the "reen -ragon. .e should reach it to/night. # need not sa* that we don&t want to see *ou+ Mr. Mason+ but a note will reach us+ and no doubt # could find *ou if # want *ou. .hen we have gone a little farther into the matter # will let *ou have a considered opinion.6 Thus it was that on a bright Ma* evening )olmes and # found ourselves alone in a first/class carriage and bound for the little 6halt/on/demand6 station of Shoscombe. The rac( above us was covered with a formidable litter of rods+ reels+ and bas(ets. 'n reaching our destination a short drive too( us to an old/fashioned tavern+ where a sporting host+ Bosiah Barnes+ entered eagerl* into our plans for the e tirpation of the fish of the neighbourhood. 6.hat about the )all la(e and the chance of a pi(e<6 said )olmes. The face of the inn(eeper clouded. 6That wouldn&t do+ sir. ;ou might chance to find *ourself in the la(e before *ou were through.6 6)ow&s that+ then<6 6#t&s Sir $obert+ sir. )e&s terrible =ealous of touts. #f *ou two strangers were as near his training >uarters as that he&d be after *ou as sure as fate. )e ain&t ta(ing no chances+ Sir $obert ain&t.6 6#&ve heard he has a horse entered for the -erb*.6 6;es+ and a good colt+ too. )e carries all our mone* for the race+ and all Sir $obert&s into the bargain. B* the wa*6//he

loo(ed at us with thoughtful e*es//6# suppose *ou ain&t on the turf *ourselves<6 6:o+ indeed. Bust two wear* %ondoners who badl* need some good Ber(shire air.6 6.ell+ *ou are in the right place for that. There is a deal of it l*ing about. But mind what # have told *ou about Sir $obert. )e&s the sort that stri(es first and spea(s afterwards. Ceep clear of the par(.6 6Surel*+ Mr. Barnes8 .e certainl* shall. B* the wa*+ that was a most beautiful spaniel that was whining in the hall.6 6# should sa* it was. That was the real Shoscombe breed. There ain&t a better in 7ngland.6 6# am a dog/fancier m*self+6 said )olmes. 6:ow+ if it is a fair >uestion+ what would a prize dog li(e that cost<6 6More than # could pa*+ sir. #t was Sir $obert himself who gave me this one. That&s wh* # have to (eep it on a lead. #t would be off to the )all in a =iff* if # gave it its head.6 6.e are getting some cards in our hand+ .atson+6 said )olmes when the landlord had left us. 6#t&s not an eas* one to pla*+ but we ma* see our wa* in a da* or two. B* the wa*+ Sir $obert is still in %ondon+ # hear. .e might+ perhaps+ enter the sacred domain to/night without fear of bodil* assault. There are one or two points on which # should li(e reassurance.6 6)ave *ou an* theor*+ )olmes<6 6'nl* this+ .atson+ that something happened a wee( or so ago which has cut deep into the life of the Shoscombe

household. .hat is that something< .e can onl* guess at it from its effects. The* seem to be of a curiousl* mi ed character. But that should surel* help us. #t is onl* the colourless+ uneventful case which is hopeless. 6%et us consider our data. The brother no longer visits the beloved invalid sister. )e gives awa* her favourite dog. )er dog+ .atson8 -oes that suggest nothing to *ou<6 6:othing but the brother&s spite.6 6.ell+ it might be so. 'r//well+ there is an alternative. :ow to continue our review of the situation from the time that the >uarrel+ if there is a >uarrel+ began. The lad* (eeps her room+ alters her habits+ is not seen save when she drives out with her maid+ refuses to stop at the stables to greet her favourite horse and apparentl* ta(es to drin(. That covers the case+ does it not<6 6Save for the business in the cr*pt.6 6That is another line of thought. There are two+ and # beg *ou will not tangle them. %ine 1+ which concerns %ad* Beatrice+ has a vaguel* sinister flavour+ has it not<6 6# can ma(e nothing of it.6 6.ell+ now+ let us ta(e up line B+ which concerns Sir $obert. )e is mad (een upon winning the -erb*. )e is in the hands of the Bews+ and ma* at an* moment be sold up and his racing stables seized b* his creditors. )e is a daring and desperate man. )e derives his income from his sister. )is sister&s maid is his willing tool. So far we seem to be on fairl* safe ground+ do we not<6 6But the cr*pt<6

61h+ *es+ the cr*pt8 %et us suppose+ .atson//it is merel* a scandalous supposition+ a h*pothesis put forward for argument&s sa(e// that Sir $obert has done awa* with his sister.6 6M* dear )olmes+ it is out of the >uestion.6 6!er* possibl*+ .atson. Sir $obert is a man of an honourable stoc(. But *ou do occasionall* find a carrion crow among the eagles. %et us for a moment argue upon this supposition. )e could not fl* the countr* until he had realized his fortune+ and that fortune could onl* be realized b* bringing off this coup with Shoscombe Prince. Therefore+ he has still to stand his ground. To do this he would have to dispose of the bod* of his victim+ and he would also have to find a substitute who would impersonate her. .ith the maid as his confidante that would not be impossible. The woman&s bod* might be conve*ed to the cr*pt+ which is a place so seldom visited+ and it might be secretl* destro*ed at night in the furnace+ leaving behind it such evidence as we have alread* seen. .hat sa* *ou to that+ .atson<6 6.ell+ it is all possible if *ou grant the original monstrous supposition.6 6# thin( that there is a small e periment which we ma* tr* to/ morrow+ .atson+ in order to throw some light on the matter. Meanwhile+ if we mean to (eep up our characters+ # suggest that we have our host in for a glass of his own wine and hold some high converse upon eels and dace+ which seems to be the straight road to his affections. .e ma* chance to come upon some useful local gossip in the process.6 #n the morning )olmes discovered that we had come without our spoon/bait for =ac(+ which absolved us from fishing for

the da*. 1bout eleven o&cloc( we started for a wal(+ and he obtained leave to ta(e the blac( spaniel with us. 6This is the place+6 said he as we came to two high par( gates with heraldic griffins towering above them. 61bout midda*+ Mr Barnes informs me+ the old lad* ta(es a drive+ and the carriage must slow down while the gates are opened. .hen it comes through+ and before it gathers speed+ # want *ou+ .atson+ to stop the coachman with some >uestion. :ever mind me. # shall stand behind this holl*/bush and see what # can see.6 #t was not a long vigil. .ithin a >uarter of an hour we saw the big open *ellow barouche coming down the long avenue+ with two splendid+ high/stepping gra* carriage horses in the shafts. )olmes crouched behind his bush with the dog. # stood unconcemedl* swinging a cane in the roadwa*. 1 (eeper ran out and the gates swung open. The carriage had slowed to a wal(+ and # was able to get a good loo( at the occupants. 1 highl* coloured *oung woman with fla en hair and impudent e*es sat on the left. 1t her right was an elderl* person with rounded bac( and a huddle of shawls about her face and shoulders which proclaimed the invalid. .hen the horses reached the highroad # held up m* hand with an authoritative gesture+ and as the coachman pulled up # in>uired if Sir $obert was at Shoscombe 'ld Place. 1t the same moment )olmes stepped out and released the spaniel. .ith a =o*ous cr* it dashed forward to the carriage and sprang upon the step. Then in a moment its eager greeting changed to furious rage+ and it snapped at the blac( s(irt above it.

6-rive on8 -rive on86 shrie(ed a harsh voice. The coachman lashed the horses+ and we were left standing in the roadwa*. 6.ell+ .atson+ that&s done it+6 said )olmes as he fastened the lead to the nec( of the e cited spaniel. 6)e thought it was his mistress+ and he found it was a stranger. -ogs don&t ma(e mista(es.6 6But it was the voice of a man86 # cried. 67 actl*8 .e have added one card to our hand+ .atson+ but it needs careful pla*ing+ all the same.6 M* companion seemed to have no further plans for the da*+ and we did actuall* use our fishing tac(le in the mill/stream with the result that we had a dish of trout for our supper. #t was onl* after that meal that )olmes showed signs of renewed activit*. 'nce more we found ourselves upon the same road as in the morning+ which led us to the par( gates. 1 tall+ dar( figure was awaiting us there+ who proved to be our %ondon ac>uaintance+ Mr. Bohn Mason+ the trainer. 6"ood/evening+ gentlemen+6 said he. 6# got *our note+ Mr. )olmes. Sir $obert has not returned *et+ but # hear that he is e pected to/night.6 6)ow far is this cr*pt from the house<6 as(ed )olmes. 61 good >uarter of a mile.6 6Then # thin( we can disregard him altogether.6 6# can&t afford to do that+ Mr. )olmes. The moment he arrives he will want to see me to get the last news of Shoscombe Prince.6

6# see8 #n that case we must wor( without *ou+ Mr. Mason. ;ou can show us the cr*pt and then leave us.6 #t was pitch/dar( and without a moon+ but Mason led us over the grass/lands until a dar( mass loomed up in front of us which proved to be the ancient chapel. .e entered the bro(en gap which was once the porch+ and our guide+ stumbling among heaps of loose masonr*+ pic(ed his wa* to the corner of the building+ where a steep stair led down into the cr*pt. Stri(ing a match+ he illuminated the melanchol* place //dismal and evil/smelling+ with ancient crumbling walls of rough/hewn stone+ and piles of coffins+ some of lead and some of stone+ e tending upon one side right up to the arched and groined roof which lost itself in the shadows above our heads. )olmes had lit his lantern+ which shot a tin* tunnel of vivid *ellow light upon the mournful scene. #ts ra*s were reflected bac( from the coffin/plates+ man* of them adorned with the griffin and coronet of this old famil* which carried its honours even to the gate of -eath. 6;ou spo(e of some bones+ Mr. Mason. Could *ou show them before *ou go<6 6The* are here in this corner.6 The trainer strode across and then stood in silent surprise as our light was turned upon the place. 6The* are gone+6 said he. 6So # e pected+6 said )olmes+ chuc(ling. 6# fanc* the ashes of them might even now be found in that oven which had alread* consumed a part.6 6But wh* in the world would an*one want to burn the bones of a man who has been dead a thousand *ears<6 as(ed Bohn Mason.

6That is what we are here to find out+6 said )olmes. 6#t ma* mean a long search+ and we need not detain *ou. # fanc* that we shall get our solution before morning.6 .hen Bohn Mason had left us+ )olmes set to wor( ma(ing a ver* careful e amination of the graves+ ranging from a ver* ancient one+ which appeared to be Sa on+ in the centre+ through a long line of :orman )ugos and 'dos+ until we reached the Sir .illiam and Sir -enis ,alder of the eighteenth centur*. #t was an hour or more before )olmes came to a leaden coffin standing on end before the entrance to the vault. # heard his little cr* of satisfaction and was aware from his hurried but purposeful movements that he had reached a goal. .ith his lens he was eagerl* e amining the edges of the heav* lid. Then he drew from his poc(et a short =emm*+ a bo /opener+ which he thrust into a chin(+ levering bac( the whole front+ which seemed to be secured b* onl* a couple of clamps. There was a rending+ tearing sound as it gave wa*+ but it had hardl* hinged bac( and partl* revealed the contents before we had an unforeseen interruption. Someone was wal(ing in the chapel above. #t was the firm+ rapid step of one who came with a definite purpose and (new well the ground upon which he wal(ed. 1 light streamed down the stairs+ and an instant later the man who bore it was framed in the "othic archwa*. )e was a terrible figure+ huge in stature and fierce in manner. 1 large stable/ lantern which he held in front of him shone upward upon a strong+ heavil* moustached face and angr* e*es+ which glared round him into ever* recess of the vault+ finall* fi ing themselves with a deadl* stare upon m* companion and m*self. 6.ho the devil are *ou<6 he thundered. 61nd what are *ou

doing upon m* propert*<6 Then+ as )olmes returned no answer he too( a couple of steps forward and raised a heav* stic( which he carried. 6-o *ou hear me<6 he cried. 6.ho are *ou< .hat are *ou doing here<6 )is cudgel >uivered in the air. But instead of shrin(ing )olmes advanced to meet him. 6# also have a >uestion to as( *ou+ Sir $obert+6 he said in his sternest tone. 6.ho is this< 1nd what is it doing here<6 )e turned and tore open the coffin/lid behind him. #n the glare of the lantern # saw a bod* swathed in a sheet from head to foot with dreadful+ witch/li(e features+ all nose and chin+ pro=ecting at one end+ the dim+ glazed e*es staring from a discoloured and crumbling face. The baronet had staggered bac( with a cr* and supported himself against a stone sarcophagus. 6)ow came *ou to (now of this<6 he cried. 1nd then+ with some return of his truculent manner@ 6.hat business is it of *ours<6 6M* name is Sherloc( )olmes+6 said m* companion. 6Possibl* it is familiar to *ou. #n an* case+ m* business is that of ever* other good citizen//to uphold the law. #t seems to me that *ou have much to answer for.6 Sir $obert glared for a moment+ but )olmes&s >uiet voice and cool+ assured manner had their effect. 6&,ore "od+ Mr. )olmes+ it&s all right+6 said he. 61ppearances are against me+ #&ll admit+ but # could act no otherwise.6 6# should be happ* to thin( so+ but # fear *our e planations

must be before the police.6 Sir $obert shrugged his broad shoulders. 6.ell+ if it must be+ it must. Come up to the house and *ou can =udge for *ourself how the matter stands.6 1 >uarter of an hour later we found ourselves in what # =udge+ from the lines of polished barrels behind glass covers+ to be the gun/room of the old house. #t was comfortabl* furnished+ and here Sir $obert left us for a few moments. .hen he returned he had two companions with him0 the one+ the florid *oung woman whom we had seen in the carriage0 the other+ a small rat/faced man with a disagreeabl* furtive manner. These two wore an appearance of utter bewilderment+ which showed that the baronet had not *et had time to e plain to them the turn events had ta(en. 6There+6 said Sir $obert with a wave of his hand+ 6are Mr. and Mrs. :orlett. Mrs. :orlett+ under her maiden name of 7vans+ has for some *ears been m* sister&s confidential maid. # have brought them here because # feel that m* best course is to e plain the true position to *ou+ and the* are the two people upon earth who can substantiate what # sa*.6 6#s this necessar*+ Sir $obert< )ave *ou thought what *ou are doing<6 cried the woman. 61s to me+ # entirel* disclaim all responsibilit*+6 said her husband. Sir $obert gave him a glance of contempt. 6# will ta(e all responsibilit*+6 said he. 6:ow+ Mr. )olmes+ listen to a plain statement of the facts. 6;ou have clearl* gone prett* deepl* into m* affairs or #

should not have found *ou where # did. Therefore+ *ou (now alread*+ in all probabilit*+ that # am running a dar( horse for the -erb* and that ever*thing depends upon m* success. #f # win+ all is eas*. #f # lose// well+ # dare not thin( of that86 6# understand the position+6 said )olmes. 6# am dependent upon m* sister+ %ad* Beatrice+ for ever*thing. But it is well (nown that her interest in the estate is for her own life onl*. ,or m*self+ # am deepl* in the hands of the Bews. # have alwa*s (nown that if m* sister were to die m* creditors would be on to m* estate li(e a floc( of vultures. 7ver*thing would be seized//m* stables+ m* horses//ever*thing. .ell+ Mr. )olmes+ m* sister did die =ust a wee( ago.6 61nd *ou told no one86 6.hat could # do< 1bsolute ruin faced me. #f # could stave things off for three wee(s all would be well. )er maid&s husband//this man here //is an actor. #t came into our heads//it came into m* head//that he could for that short period personate m* sister. #t was but a case of appearing dail* in the carriage+ for no one need enter her room save the maid. #t was not difficult to arrange. M* sister died of the drops* which had long afflicted her.6 6That will be for a coroner to decide.6 6)er doctor would certif* that for months her s*mptoms have threatened such an end.6 6.ell+ what did *ou do<6 6The bod* could not remain there. 'n the first night :orlett and # carried it out to the old well/house+ which is now never

used. .e were followed+ however+ b* her pet spaniel+ which *apped continuall* at the door+ so # felt some safer place was needed. # got rid of the spaniel+ and we carried the bod* to the cr*pt of the church. There was no indignit* or irreverence+ Mr. )olmes. # do not feel that # have wronged the dead.6 6;our conduct seems to me ine cusable+ Sir $obert.6 The baronet shoo( his head impatientl*. 6#t is eas* to preach+6 said he. 6Perhaps *ou would have felt differentl* if *ou had been in m* position. 'ne cannot see all one&s hopes and all one&s plans shattered at the last moment and ma(e no effort to save them. #t seemed to me that it would be no unworth* resting/place if we put her for the time in one of the coffins of her husband&s ancestors l*ing in what is still consecrated ground. .e opened such a coffin+ removed the contents+ and placed her as *ou have seen her. 1s to the old relics which we too( out+ we could not leave them on the floor of the cr*pt. :orlett and # removed them+ and he descended at night and burned them in the central furnace. There is m* stor*+ Mr. )olmes+ though how *ou forced m* hand so that # have to tell it is more than # can sa*.6 )olmes sat for some time lost in thought. 6There is one flaw in *our narrative+ Sir $obert+6 he said at last. 6;our bets on the race+ and therefore *our hopes for the future+ would hold good even if *our creditors seized *our estate.6 6The horse would be part of the estate. .hat do the* care for m* bets< 1s li(el* as not the* would not run him at all. M* chief creditor is+ unhappil*+ m* most bitter enem*//a rascall* fellow+ Sam Brewer+ whom # was once compelled to

horsewhip on :ewmar(et )eath. -o *ou suppose that he would tr* to save me<6 6.ell+ Sir $obert+6 said )olmes+ rising+ 6this matter must+ of course+ be referred to the police. #t was m* dut* to bring the facts to light+ and there # must leave it. 1s to the moralit* or decenc* of *our conduct+ it is not for me to e press an opinion. #t is nearl* midnight+ .atson+ and # thin( we ma* ma(e our wa* bac( to our humble abode.6 #t is generall* (nown now that this singular episode ended upon a happier note than Sir $obert&s actions deserved. Shoscombe Prince did win the -erb*+ the sporting owner did net eight* thousand pounds in bets+ and the creditors did hold their hand until the race was over+ when the* were paid in full+ and enough was left to reestablish Sir $obert in a fair position in life. Both police and coroner too( a lenient view of the transaction+ and be*ond a mild censure for the dela* in registering the lad*&s decease+ the luc(* owner got awa* scatheless from this strange incident in a career which has now outlived its shadows and promises to end in an honoured old age.

TH" "!D
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