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diff --git a/221-h/221-h.htm b/221-h/221-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a8cfb3d --- /dev/null +++ b/221-h/221-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,15556 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Return of Sherlock Holmes, by Arthur Conan Doyle. + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +Project Gutenberg's The Return of Sherlock Holmes, by Arthur Conan Doyle + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Return of Sherlock Holmes + Magazine Edition + +Author: Arthur Conan Doyle + +Release Date: February, 1995 [EBook #221] +Last Updated: March 6, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES *** + + + + +Produced by Charles Keller, Joanne Brown, Frank Sadowski, Roger Squires, +and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + + + +<table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3"> +<tr> +<td> +THERE IS AN ILLUSTRATED EDITION OF THIS TITLE WHICH MAY VIEWED AT EBOOK <big><b><a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/108"> +[# 108 ]</a></b></big> +</td> +</tr> +</table> + + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Arthur Conan Doyle. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <h5> + <br /> <br /> THE STRAND MAGAZINE<br /> 1903<br /> THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK + HOLMES.<br /> By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE.<br /> <br /> <br /> + </h5> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Contents + </h2> + <table summary=""> + <tr> + <td> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> I.—The Adventure of the Empty House. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> II.—The Adventure of the Norwood + Builder. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> III.—The Adventure of the Dancing + Men. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> IV.—The Adventure of the Solitary + Cyclist. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> V.—The Adventure of the Priory + School. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> VI.—The Adventure of Black Peter. + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> VII.—The Adventure of Charles + Augustus Milverton. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> VIII.—The Adventure of the Six + Napoleons. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0009"> IX.—The Adventure of the Three + Students. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0010"> X.—The Adventure of the Golden + Pince-Nez. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0011"> XI.—The Adventure of the Missing + Three-Quarter. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0012"> XII.—The Adventure of the Abbey + Grange. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0013"> XIII.—The Adventure of the Second + Stain. </a> + </p> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 26 OCTOBER, 1903 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <h2> + I.—The Adventure of the Empty House. + </h2> + <p> + IT was in the spring of the year 1894 that all London was interested, and + the fashionable world dismayed, by the murder of the Honourable Ronald + Adair under most unusual and inexplicable circumstances. The public has + already learned those particulars of the crime which came out in the + police investigation; but a good deal was suppressed upon that occasion, + since the case for the prosecution was so overwhelmingly strong that it + was not necessary to bring forward all the facts. Only now, at the end of + nearly ten years, am I allowed to supply those missing links which make up + the whole of that remarkable chain. The crime was of interest in itself, + but that interest was as nothing to me compared to the inconceivable + sequel, which afforded me the greatest shock and surprise of any event in + my adventurous life. Even now, after this long interval, I find myself + thrilling as I think of it, and feeling once more that sudden flood of + joy, amazement, and incredulity which utterly submerged my mind. Let me + say to that public which has shown some interest in those glimpses which I + have occasionally given them of the thoughts and actions of a very + remarkable man that they are not to blame me if I have not shared my + knowledge with them, for I should have considered it my first duty to have + done so had I not been barred by a positive prohibition from his own lips, + which was only withdrawn upon the third of last month. + </p> + <p> + It can be imagined that my close intimacy with Sherlock Holmes had + interested me deeply in crime, and that after his disappearance I never + failed to read with care the various problems which came before the + public, and I even attempted more than once for my own private + satisfaction to employ his methods in their solution, though with + indifferent success. There was none, however, which appealed to me like + this tragedy of Ronald Adair. As I read the evidence at the inquest, which + led up to a verdict of wilful murder against some person or persons + unknown, I realized more clearly than I had ever done the loss which the + community had sustained by the death of Sherlock Holmes. There were points + about this strange business which would, I was sure, have specially + appealed to him, and the efforts of the police would have been + supplemented, or more probably anticipated, by the trained observation and + the alert mind of the first criminal agent in Europe. All day as I drove + upon my round I turned over the case in my mind, and found no explanation + which appeared to me to be adequate. At the risk of telling a twice-told + tale I will recapitulate the facts as they were known to the public at the + conclusion of the inquest. + </p> + <p> + The Honourable Ronald Adair was the second son of the Earl of Maynooth, at + that time Governor of one of the Australian Colonies. Adair's mother had + returned from Australia to undergo the operation for cataract, and she, + her son Ronald, and her daughter Hilda were living together at 427, Park + Lane. The youth moved in the best society, had, so far as was known, no + enemies, and no particular vices. He had been engaged to Miss Edith + Woodley, of Carstairs, but the engagement had been broken off by mutual + consent some months before, and there was no sign that it had left any + very profound feeling behind it. For the rest the man's life moved in a + narrow and conventional circle, for his habits were quiet and his nature + unemotional. Yet it was upon this easy-going young aristocrat that death + came in most strange and unexpected form between the hours of ten and + eleven-twenty on the night of March 30, 1894. + </p> + <p> + Ronald Adair was fond of cards, playing continually, but never for such + stakes as would hurt him. He was a member of the Baldwin, the Cavendish, + and the Bagatelle card clubs. It was shown that after dinner on the day of + his death he had played a rubber of whist at the latter club. He had also + played there in the afternoon. The evidence of those who had played with + him—Mr. Murray, Sir John Hardy, and Colonel Moran—showed that + the game was whist, and that there was a fairly equal fall of the cards. + Adair might have lost five pounds, but not more. His fortune was a + considerable one, and such a loss could not in any way affect him. He had + played nearly every day at one club or other, but he was a cautious + player, and usually rose a winner. It came out in evidence that in + partnership with Colonel Moran he had actually won as much as four hundred + and twenty pounds in a sitting some weeks before from Godfrey Milner and + Lord Balmoral. So much for his recent history, as it came out at the + inquest. + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the crime he returned from the club exactly at ten. His + mother and sister were out spending the evening with a relation. The + servant deposed that she heard him enter the front room on the second + floor, generally used as his sitting-room. She had lit a fire there, and + as it smoked she had opened the window. No sound was heard from the room + until eleven-twenty, the hour of the return of Lady Maynooth and her + daughter. Desiring to say good-night, she had attempted to enter her son's + room. The door was locked on the inside, and no answer could be got to + their cries and knocking. Help was obtained and the door forced. The + unfortunate young man was found lying near the table. His head had been + horribly mutilated by an expanding revolver bullet, but no weapon of any + sort was to be found in the room. On the table lay two bank-notes for ten + pounds each and seventeen pounds ten in silver and gold, the money + arranged in little piles of varying amount. There were some figures also + upon a sheet of paper with the names of some club friends opposite to + them, from which it was conjectured that before his death he was + endeavouring to make out his losses or winnings at cards. + </p> + <p> + A minute examination of the circumstances served only to make the case + more complex. In the first place, no reason could be given why the young + man should have fastened the door upon the inside. There was the + possibility that the murderer had done this and had afterwards escaped by + the window. The drop was at least twenty feet, however, and a bed of + crocuses in full bloom lay beneath. Neither the flowers nor the earth + showed any sign of having been disturbed, nor were there any marks upon + the narrow strip of grass which separated the house from the road. + Apparently, therefore, it was the young man himself who had fastened the + door. But how did he come by his death? No one could have climbed up to + the window without leaving traces. Suppose a man had fired through the + window, it would indeed be a remarkable shot who could with a revolver + inflict so deadly a wound. Again, Park Lane is a frequented thoroughfare, + and there is a cab-stand within a hundred yards of the house. No one had + heard a shot. And yet there was the dead man, and there the revolver + bullet, which had mushroomed out, as soft-nosed bullets will, and so + inflicted a wound which must have caused instantaneous death. Such were + the circumstances of the Park Lane Mystery, which were further complicated + by entire absence of motive, since, as I have said, young Adair was not + known to have any enemy, and no attempt had been made to remove the money + or valuables in the room. + </p> + <p> + All day I turned these facts over in my mind, endeavouring to hit upon + some theory which could reconcile them all, and to find that line of least + resistance which my poor friend had declared to be the starting-point of + every investigation. I confess that I made little progress. In the evening + I strolled across the Park, and found myself about six o'clock at the + Oxford Street end of Park Lane. A group of loafers upon the pavements, all + staring up at a particular window, directed me to the house which I had + come to see. A tall, thin man with coloured glasses, whom I strongly + suspected of being a plain-clothes detective, was pointing out some theory + of his own, while the others crowded round to listen to what he said. I + got as near him as I could, but his observations seemed to me to be + absurd, so I withdrew again in some disgust. As I did so I struck against + an elderly deformed man, who had been behind me, and I knocked down + several books which he was carrying. I remember that as I picked them up I + observed the title of one of them, “The Origin of Tree Worship,” and it + struck me that the fellow must be some poor bibliophile who, either as a + trade or as a hobby, was a collector of obscure volumes. I endeavoured to + apologize for the accident, but it was evident that these books which I + had so unfortunately maltreated were very precious objects in the eyes of + their owner. With a snarl of contempt he turned upon his heel, and I saw + his curved back and white side-whiskers disappear among the throng. + </p> + <p> + My observations of No. 427, Park Lane did little to clear up the problem + in which I was interested. The house was separated from the street by a + low wall and railing, the whole not more than five feet high. It was + perfectly easy, therefore, for anyone to get into the garden, but the + window was entirely inaccessible, since there was no water-pipe or + anything which could help the most active man to climb it. More puzzled + than ever I retraced my steps to Kensington. I had not been in my study + five minutes when the maid entered to say that a person desired to see me. + To my astonishment it was none other than my strange old book-collector, + his sharp, wizened face peering out from a frame of white hair, and his + precious volumes, a dozen of them at least, wedged under his right arm. + </p> + <p> + “You're surprised to see me, sir,” said he, in a strange, croaking voice. + </p> + <p> + I acknowledged that I was. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I've a conscience, sir, and when I chanced to see you go into this + house, as I came hobbling after you, I thought to myself, I'll just step + in and see that kind gentleman, and tell him that if I was a bit gruff in + my manner there was not any harm meant, and that I am much obliged to him + for picking up my books.” + </p> + <p> + “You make too much of a trifle,” said I. “May I ask how you knew who I + was?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, if it isn't too great a liberty, I am a neighbour of yours, + for you'll find my little bookshop at the corner of Church Street, and + very happy to see you, I am sure. Maybe you collect yourself, sir; here's + 'British Birds,' and 'Catullus,' and 'The Holy War'—a bargain every + one of them. With five volumes you could just fill that gap on that second + shelf. It looks untidy, does it not, sir?” + </p> + <p> + I moved my head to look at the cabinet behind me. When I turned again + Sherlock Holmes was standing smiling at me across my study table. I rose + to my feet, stared at him for some seconds in utter amazement, and then it + appears that I must have fainted for the first and the last time in my + life. Certainly a grey mist swirled before my eyes, and when it cleared I + found my collar-ends undone and the tingling after-taste of brandy upon my + lips. Holmes was bending over my chair, his flask in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Watson,” said the well-remembered voice, “I owe you a thousand + apologies. I had no idea that you would be so affected.” + </p> + <p> + I gripped him by the arm. + </p> + <p> + “Holmes!” I cried. “Is it really you? Can it indeed be that you are alive? + Is it possible that you succeeded in climbing out of that awful abyss?” + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment,” said he. “Are you sure that you are really fit to discuss + things? I have given you a serious shock by my unnecessarily dramatic + reappearance.” + </p> + <p> + “I am all right, but indeed, Holmes, I can hardly believe my eyes. Good + heavens, to think that you—you of all men—should be standing + in my study!” Again I gripped him by the sleeve and felt the thin, sinewy + arm beneath it. “Well, you're not a spirit, anyhow,” said I. “My dear + chap, I am overjoyed to see you. Sit down and tell me how you came alive + out of that dreadful chasm.” + </p> + <p> + He sat opposite to me and lit a cigarette in his old nonchalant manner. He + was dressed in the seedy frock-coat of the book merchant, but the rest of + that individual lay in a pile of white hair and old books upon the table. + Holmes looked even thinner and keener than of old, but there was a + dead-white tinge in his aquiline face which told me that his life recently + had not been a healthy one. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to stretch myself, Watson,” said he. “It is no joke when a tall + man has to take a foot off his stature for several hours on end. Now, my + dear fellow, in the matter of these explanations we have, if I may ask for + your co-operation, a hard and dangerous night's work in front of us. + Perhaps it would be better if I gave you an account of the whole situation + when that work is finished.” + </p> + <p> + “I am full of curiosity. I should much prefer to hear now.” + </p> + <p> + “You'll come with me to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “When you like and where you like.” + </p> + <p> + “This is indeed like the old days. We shall have time for a mouthful of + dinner before we need go. Well, then, about that chasm. I had no serious + difficulty in getting out of it, for the very simple reason that I never + was in it.” + </p> + <p> + “You never were in it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Watson, I never was in it. My note to you was absolutely genuine. I + had little doubt that I had come to the end of my career when I perceived + the somewhat sinister figure of the late Professor Moriarty standing upon + the narrow pathway which led to safety. I read an inexorable purpose in + his grey eyes. I exchanged some remarks with him, therefore, and obtained + his courteous permission to write the short note which you afterwards + received. I left it with my cigarette-box and my stick and I walked along + the pathway, Moriarty still at my heels. When I reached the end I stood at + bay. He drew no weapon, but he rushed at me and threw his long arms around + me. He knew that his own game was up, and was only anxious to revenge + himself upon me. We tottered together upon the brink of the fall. I have + some knowledge, however, of baritsu, or the Japanese system of wrestling, + which has more than once been very useful to me. I slipped through his + grip, and he with a horrible scream kicked madly for a few seconds and + clawed the air with both his hands. But for all his efforts he could not + get his balance, and over he went. With my face over the brink I saw him + fall for a long way. Then he struck a rock, bounded off, and splashed into + the water.” + </p> + <p> + I listened with amazement to this explanation, which Holmes delivered + between the puffs of his cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “But the tracks!” I cried. “I saw with my own eyes that two went down the + path and none returned.” + </p> + <p> + “It came about in this way. The instant that the Professor had disappeared + it struck me what a really extraordinarily lucky chance Fate had placed in + my way. I knew that Moriarty was not the only man who had sworn my death. + There were at least three others whose desire for vengeance upon me would + only be increased by the death of their leader. They were all most + dangerous men. One or other would certainly get me. On the other hand, if + all the world was convinced that I was dead they would take liberties, + these men, they would lay themselves open, and sooner or later I could + destroy them. Then it would be time for me to announce that I was still in + the land of the living. So rapidly does the brain act that I believe I had + thought this all out before Professor Moriarty had reached the bottom of + the Reichenbach Fall. + </p> + <p> + “I stood up and examined the rocky wall behind me. In your picturesque + account of the matter, which I read with great interest some months later, + you assert that the wall was sheer. This was not literally true. A few + small footholds presented themselves, and there was some indication of a + ledge. The cliff is so high that to climb it all was an obvious + impossibility, and it was equally impossible to make my way along the wet + path without leaving some tracks. I might, it is true, have reversed my + boots, as I have done on similar occasions, but the sight of three sets of + tracks in one direction would certainly have suggested a deception. On the + whole, then, it was best that I should risk the climb. It was not a + pleasant business, Watson. The fall roared beneath me. I am not a fanciful + person, but I give you my word that I seemed to hear Moriarty's voice + screaming at me out of the abyss. A mistake would have been fatal. More + than once, as tufts of grass came out in my hand or my foot slipped in the + wet notches of the rock, I thought that I was gone. But I struggled + upwards, and at last I reached a ledge several feet deep and covered with + soft green moss, where I could lie unseen in the most perfect comfort. + There I was stretched when you, my dear Watson, and all your following + were investigating in the most sympathetic and inefficient manner the + circumstances of my death. + </p> + <p> + “At last, when you had all formed your inevitable and totally erroneous + conclusions, you departed for the hotel and I was left alone. I had + imagined that I had reached the end of my adventures, but a very + unexpected occurrence showed me that there were surprises still in store + for me. A huge rock, falling from above, boomed past me, struck the path, + and bounded over into the chasm. For an instant I thought that it was an + accident; but a moment later, looking up, I saw a man's head against the + darkening sky, and another stone struck the very ledge upon which I was + stretched, within a foot of my head. Of course, the meaning of this was + obvious. Moriarty had not been alone. A confederate—and even that + one glance had told me how dangerous a man that confederate was—had + kept guard while the Professor had attacked me. From a distance, unseen by + me, he had been a witness of his friend's death and of my escape. He had + waited, and then, making his way round to the top of the cliff, he had + endeavoured to succeed where his comrade had failed. + </p> + <p> + “I did not take long to think about it, Watson. Again I saw that grim face + look over the cliff, and I knew that it was the precursor of another + stone. I scrambled down on to the path. I don't think I could have done it + in cold blood. It was a hundred times more difficult than getting up. But + I had no time to think of the danger, for another stone sang past me as I + hung by my hands from the edge of the ledge. Halfway down I slipped, but + by the blessing of God I landed, torn and bleeding, upon the path. I took + to my heels, did ten miles over the mountains in the darkness, and a week + later I found myself in Florence with the certainty that no one in the + world knew what had become of me. + </p> + <p> + “I had only one confidant—my brother Mycroft. I owe you many + apologies, my dear Watson, but it was all-important that it should be + thought I was dead, and it is quite certain that you would not have + written so convincing an account of my unhappy end had you not yourself + thought that it was true. Several times during the last three years I have + taken up my pen to write to you, but always I feared lest your + affectionate regard for me should tempt you to some indiscretion which + would betray my secret. For that reason I turned away from you this + evening when you upset my books, for I was in danger at the time, and any + show of surprise and emotion upon your part might have drawn attention to + my identity and led to the most deplorable and irreparable results. As to + Mycroft, I had to confide in him in order to obtain the money which I + needed. The course of events in London did not run so well as I had hoped, + for the trial of the Moriarty gang left two of its most dangerous members, + my own most vindictive enemies, at liberty. I travelled for two years in + Tibet, therefore, and amused myself by visiting Lhassa and spending some + days with the head Llama. You may have read of the remarkable explorations + of a Norwegian named Sigerson, but I am sure that it never occurred to you + that you were receiving news of your friend. I then passed through Persia, + looked in at Mecca, and paid a short but interesting visit to the Khalifa + at Khartoum, the results of which I have communicated to the Foreign + Office. Returning to France I spent some months in a research into the + coal-tar derivatives, which I conducted in a laboratory at Montpelier, in + the South of France. Having concluded this to my satisfaction, and + learning that only one of my enemies was now left in London, I was about + to return when my movements were hastened by the news of this very + remarkable Park Lane Mystery, which not only appealed to me by its own + merits, but which seemed to offer some most peculiar personal + opportunities. I came over at once to London, called in my own person at + Baker Street, threw Mrs. Hudson into violent hysterics, and found that + Mycroft had preserved my rooms and my papers exactly as they had always + been. So it was, my dear Watson, that at two o'clock to-day I found myself + in my old arm-chair in my own old room, and only wishing that I could have + seen my old friend Watson in the other chair which he has so often + adorned.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the remarkable narrative to which I listened on that April + evening—a narrative which would have been utterly incredible to me + had it not been confirmed by the actual sight of the tall, spare figure + and the keen, eager face, which I had never thought to see again. In some + manner he had learned of my own sad bereavement, and his sympathy was + shown in his manner rather than in his words. “Work is the best antidote + to sorrow, my dear Watson,” said he, “and I have a piece of work for us + both to-night which, if we can bring it to a successful conclusion, will + in itself justify a man's life on this planet.” In vain I begged him to + tell me more. “You will hear and see enough before morning,” he answered. + “We have three years of the past to discuss. Let that suffice until + half-past nine, when we start upon the notable adventure of the empty + house.” + </p> + <p> + It was indeed like old times when, at that hour, I found myself seated + beside him in a hansom, my revolver in my pocket and the thrill of + adventure in my heart. Holmes was cold and stern and silent. As the gleam + of the street-lamps flashed upon his austere features I saw that his brows + were drawn down in thought and his thin lips compressed. I knew not what + wild beast we were about to hunt down in the dark jungle of criminal + London, but I was well assured from the bearing of this master huntsman + that the adventure was a most grave one, while the sardonic smile which + occasionally broke through his ascetic gloom boded little good for the + object of our quest. + </p> + <p> + I had imagined that we were bound for Baker Street, but Holmes stopped the + cab at the corner of Cavendish Square. I observed that as he stepped out + he gave a most searching glance to right and left, and at every subsequent + street corner he took the utmost pains to assure that he was not followed. + Our route was certainly a singular one. Holmes's knowledge of the byways + of London was extraordinary, and on this occasion he passed rapidly, and + with an assured step, through a network of mews and stables the very + existence of which I had never known. We emerged at last into a small + road, lined with old, gloomy houses, which led us into Manchester Street, + and so to Blandford Street. Here he turned swiftly down a narrow passage, + passed through a wooden gate into a deserted yard, and then opened with a + key the back door of a house. We entered together and he closed it behind + us. + </p> + <p> + The place was pitch-dark, but it was evident to me that it was an empty + house. Our feet creaked and crackled over the bare planking, and my + outstretched hand touched a wall from which the paper was hanging in + ribbons. Holmes's cold, thin fingers closed round my wrist and led me + forwards down a long hall, until I dimly saw the murky fanlight over the + door. Here Holmes turned suddenly to the right, and we found ourselves in + a large, square, empty room, heavily shadowed in the corners, but faintly + lit in the centre from the lights of the street beyond. There was no lamp + near and the window was thick with dust, so that we could only just + discern each other's figures within. My companion put his hand upon my + shoulder and his lips close to my ear. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know where we are?” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + “Surely that is Baker Street,” I answered, staring through the dim window. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. We are in Camden House, which stands opposite to our own old + quarters.” + </p> + <p> + “But why are we here?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it commands so excellent a view of that picturesque pile. Might I + trouble you, my dear Watson, to draw a little nearer to the window, taking + every precaution not to show yourself, and then to look up at our old + rooms—the starting-point of so many of our little adventures? We + will see if my three years of absence have entirely taken away my power to + surprise you.” + </p> + <p> + I crept forward and looked across at the familiar window. As my eyes fell + upon it I gave a gasp and a cry of amazement. The blind was down and a + strong light was burning in the room. The shadow of a man who was seated + in a chair within was thrown in hard, black outline upon the luminous + screen of the window. There was no mistaking the poise of the head, the + squareness of the shoulders, the sharpness of the features. The face was + turned half-round, and the effect was that of one of those black + silhouettes which our grandparents loved to frame. It was a perfect + reproduction of Holmes. So amazed was I that I threw out my hand to make + sure that the man himself was standing beside me. He was quivering with + silent laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” I cried. “It is marvellous.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust that age doth not wither nor custom stale my infinite variety,'” + said he, and I recognised in his voice the joy and pride which the artist + takes in his own creation. “It really is rather like me, is it not?” + </p> + <p> + “I should be prepared to swear that it was you.” + </p> + <p> + “The credit of the execution is due to Monsieur Oscar Meunier, of + Grenoble, who spent some days in doing the moulding. It is a bust in wax. + The rest I arranged myself during my visit to Baker Street this + afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “But why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because, my dear Watson, I had the strongest possible reason for wishing + certain people to think that I was there when I was really elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “And you thought the rooms were watched?” + </p> + <p> + “I KNEW that they were watched.” + </p> + <p> + “By whom?” + </p> + <p> + “By my old enemies, Watson. By the charming society whose leader lies in + the Reichenbach Fall. You must remember that they knew, and only they + knew, that I was still alive. Sooner or later they believed that I should + come back to my rooms. They watched them continuously, and this morning + they saw me arrive.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I recognised their sentinel when I glanced out of my window. He + is a harmless enough fellow, Parker by name, a garroter by trade, and a + remarkable performer upon the Jew's harp. I cared nothing for him. But I + cared a great deal for the much more formidable person who was behind him, + the bosom friend of Moriarty, the man who dropped the rocks over the + cliff, the most cunning and dangerous criminal in London. That is the man + who is after me to-night, Watson, and that is the man who is quite unaware + that we are after HIM.” + </p> + <p> + My friend's plans were gradually revealing themselves. From this + convenient retreat the watchers were being watched and the trackers + tracked. That angular shadow up yonder was the bait and we were the + hunters. In silence we stood together in the darkness and watched the + hurrying figures who passed and repassed in front of us. Holmes was silent + and motionless; but I could tell that he was keenly alert, and that his + eyes were fixed intently upon the stream of passers-by. It was a bleak and + boisterous night, and the wind whistled shrilly down the long street. Many + people were moving to and fro, most of them muffled in their coats and + cravats. Once or twice it seemed to me that I had seen the same figure + before, and I especially noticed two men who appeared to be sheltering + themselves from the wind in the doorway of a house some distance up the + street. I tried to draw my companion's attention to them, but he gave a + little ejaculation of impatience and continued to stare into the street. + More than once he fidgeted with his feet and tapped rapidly with his + fingers upon the wall. It was evident to me that he was becoming uneasy + and that his plans were not working out altogether as he had hoped. At + last, as midnight approached and the street gradually cleared, he paced up + and down the room in uncontrollable agitation. I was about to make some + remark to him when I raised my eyes to the lighted window and again + experienced almost as great a surprise as before. I clutched Holmes's arm + and pointed upwards. + </p> + <p> + “The shadow has moved!” I cried. + </p> + <p> + It was, indeed, no longer the profile, but the back, which was turned + towards us. + </p> + <p> + Three years had certainly not smoothed the asperities of his temper or his + impatience with a less active intelligence than his own. + </p> + <p> + “Of course it has moved,” said he. “Am I such a farcical bungler, Watson, + that I should erect an obvious dummy and expect that some of the sharpest + men in Europe would be deceived by it? We have been in this room two + hours, and Mrs. Hudson has made some change in that figure eight times, or + once in every quarter of an hour. She works it from the front so that her + shadow may never be seen. Ah!” He drew in his breath with a shrill, + excited intake. In the dim light I saw his head thrown forward, his whole + attitude rigid with attention. Outside, the street was absolutely + deserted. Those two men might still be crouching in the doorway, but I + could no longer see them. All was still and dark, save only that brilliant + yellow screen in front of us with the black figure outlined upon its + centre. Again in the utter silence I heard that thin, sibilant note which + spoke of intense suppressed excitement. An instant later he pulled me back + into the blackest corner of the room, and I felt his warning hand upon my + lips. The fingers which clutched me were quivering. Never had I known my + friend more moved, and yet the dark street still stretched lonely and + motionless before us. + </p> + <p> + But suddenly I was aware of that which his keener senses had already + distinguished. A low, stealthy sound came to my ears, not from the + direction of Baker Street, but from the back of the very house in which we + lay concealed. A door opened and shut. An instant later steps crept down + the passage—steps which were meant to be silent, but which + reverberated harshly through the empty house. Holmes crouched back against + the wall and I did the same, my hand closing upon the handle of my + revolver. Peering through the gloom, I saw the vague outline of a man, a + shade blacker than the blackness of the open door. He stood for an + instant, and then he crept forward, crouching, menacing, into the room. He + was within three yards of us, this sinister figure, and I had braced + myself to meet his spring, before I realized that he had no idea of our + presence. He passed close beside us, stole over to the window, and very + softly and noiselessly raised it for half a foot. As he sank to the level + of this opening the light of the street, no longer dimmed by the dusty + glass, fell full upon his face. The man seemed to be beside himself with + excitement. His two eyes shone like stars and his features were working + convulsively. He was an elderly man, with a thin, projecting nose, a high, + bald forehead, and a huge grizzled moustache. An opera-hat was pushed to + the back of his head, and an evening dress shirt-front gleamed out through + his open overcoat. His face was gaunt and swarthy, scored with deep, + savage lines. In his hand he carried what appeared to be a stick, but as + he laid it down upon the floor it gave a metallic clang. Then from the + pocket of his overcoat he drew a bulky object, and he busied himself in + some task which ended with a loud, sharp click, as if a spring or bolt had + fallen into its place. Still kneeling upon the floor he bent forward and + threw all his weight and strength upon some lever, with the result that + there came a long, whirling, grinding noise, ending once more in a + powerful click. He straightened himself then, and I saw that what he held + in his hand was a sort of gun, with a curiously misshapen butt. He opened + it at the breech, put something in, and snapped the breech-block. Then, + crouching down, he rested the end of the barrel upon the ledge of the open + window, and I saw his long moustache droop over the stock and his eye + gleam as it peered along the sights. I heard a little sigh of satisfaction + as he cuddled the butt into his shoulder, and saw that amazing target, the + black man on the yellow ground, standing clear at the end of his fore + sight. For an instant he was rigid and motionless. Then his finger + tightened on the trigger. There was a strange, loud whiz and a long, + silvery tinkle of broken glass. At that instant Holmes sprang like a tiger + on to the marksman's back and hurled him flat upon his face. He was up + again in a moment, and with convulsive strength he seized Holmes by the + throat; but I struck him on the head with the butt of my revolver and he + dropped again upon the floor. I fell upon him, and as I held him my + comrade blew a shrill call upon a whistle. There was the clatter of + running feet upon the pavement, and two policemen in uniform, with one + plain-clothes detective, rushed through the front entrance and into the + room. + </p> + <p> + “That you, Lestrade?” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Holmes. I took the job myself. It's good to see you back in + London, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you want a little unofficial help. Three undetected murders in + one year won't do, Lestrade. But you handled the Molesey Mystery with less + than your usual—that's to say, you handled it fairly well.” + </p> + <p> + We had all risen to our feet, our prisoner breathing hard, with a stalwart + constable on each side of him. Already a few loiterers had begun to + collect in the street. Holmes stepped up to the window, closed it, and + dropped the blinds. Lestrade had produced two candles and the policemen + had uncovered their lanterns. I was able at last to have a good look at + our prisoner. + </p> + <p> + It was a tremendously virile and yet sinister face which was turned + towards us. With the brow of a philosopher above and the jaw of a + sensualist below, the man must have started with great capacities for good + or for evil. But one could not look upon his cruel blue eyes, with their + drooping, cynical lids, or upon the fierce, aggressive nose and the + threatening, deep-lined brow, without reading Nature's plainest + danger-signals. He took no heed of any of us, but his eyes were fixed upon + Holmes's face with an expression in which hatred and amazement were + equally blended. “You fiend!” he kept on muttering. “You clever, clever + fiend!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Colonel!” said Holmes, arranging his rumpled collar; “'journeys end + in lovers' meetings,' as the old play says. I don't think I have had the + pleasure of seeing you since you favoured me with those attentions as I + lay on the ledge above the Reichenbach Fall.” + </p> + <p> + The Colonel still stared at my friend like a man in a trance. “You + cunning, cunning fiend!” was all that he could say. + </p> + <p> + “I have not introduced you yet,” said Holmes. “This, gentlemen, is Colonel + Sebastian Moran, once of Her Majesty's Indian Army, and the best heavy + game shot that our Eastern Empire has ever produced. I believe I am + correct, Colonel, in saying that your bag of tigers still remains + unrivalled?” + </p> + <p> + The fierce old man said nothing, but still glared at my companion; with + his savage eyes and bristling moustache he was wonderfully like a tiger + himself. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder that my very simple stratagem could deceive so old a shikari,” + said Holmes. “It must be very familiar to you. Have you not tethered a + young kid under a tree, lain above it with your rifle, and waited for the + bait to bring up your tiger? This empty house is my tree and you are my + tiger. You have possibly had other guns in reserve in case there should be + several tigers, or in the unlikely supposition of your own aim failing + you. These,” he pointed around, “are my other guns. The parallel is + exact.” + </p> + <p> + Colonel Moran sprang forward, with a snarl of rage, but the constables + dragged him back. The fury upon his face was terrible to look at. + </p> + <p> + “I confess that you had one small surprise for me,” said Holmes. “I did + not anticipate that you would yourself make use of this empty house and + this convenient front window. I had imagined you as operating from the + street, where my friend Lestrade and his merry men were awaiting you. With + that exception all has gone as I expected.” + </p> + <p> + Colonel Moran turned to the official detective. + </p> + <p> + “You may or may not have just cause for arresting me,” said he, “but at + least there can be no reason why I should submit to the gibes of this + person. If I am in the hands of the law let things be done in a legal + way.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that's reasonable enough,” said Lestrade. “Nothing further you have + to say, Mr. Holmes, before we go?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had picked up the powerful air-gun from the floor and was examining + its mechanism. + </p> + <p> + “An admirable and unique weapon,” said he, “noiseless and of tremendous + power. I knew Von Herder, the blind German mechanic, who constructed it to + the order of the late Professor Moriarty. For years I have been aware of + its existence, though I have never before had the opportunity of handling + it. I commend it very specially to your attention, Lestrade, and also the + bullets which fit it.” + </p> + <p> + “You can trust us to look after that, Mr. Holmes,” said Lestrade, as the + whole party moved towards the door. “Anything further to say?” + </p> + <p> + “Only to ask what charge you intend to prefer?” + </p> + <p> + “What charge, sir? Why, of course, the attempted murder of Mr. Sherlock + Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so, Lestrade. I do not propose to appear in the matter at all. To + you, and to you only, belongs the credit of the remarkable arrest which + you have effected. Yes, Lestrade, I congratulate you! With your usual + happy mixture of cunning and audacity you have got him.” + </p> + <p> + “Got him! Got whom, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “The man that the whole force has been seeking in vain—Colonel + Sebastian Moran, who shot the Honourable Ronald Adair with an expanding + bullet from an air-gun through the open window of the second-floor front + of No. 427, Park Lane, upon the 30th of last month. That's the charge, + Lestrade. And now, Watson, if you can endure the draught from a broken + window, I think that half an hour in my study over a cigar may afford you + some profitable amusement.” + </p> + <p> + Our old chambers had been left unchanged through the supervision of + Mycroft Holmes and the immediate care of Mrs. Hudson. As I entered I saw, + it is true, an unwonted tidiness, but the old landmarks were all in their + place. There were the chemical corner and the acid-stained, deal-topped + table. There upon a shelf was the row of formidable scrap-books and books + of reference which many of our fellow-citizens would have been so glad to + burn. The diagrams, the violin-case, and the pipe-rack—even the + Persian slipper which contained the tobacco—all met my eyes as I + glanced round me. There were two occupants of the room—one Mrs. + Hudson, who beamed upon us both as we entered; the other the strange dummy + which had played so important a part in the evening's adventures. It was a + wax-coloured model of my friend, so admirably done that it was a perfect + facsimile. It stood on a small pedestal table with an old dressing-gown of + Holmes's so draped round it that the illusion from the street was + absolutely perfect. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you preserved all precautions, Mrs. Hudson?” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “I went to it on my knees, sir, just as you told me.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent. You carried the thing out very well. Did you observe where the + bullet went?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. I'm afraid it has spoilt your beautiful bust, for it passed + right through the head and flattened itself on the wall. I picked it up + from the carpet. Here it is!” + </p> + <p> + Holmes held it out to me. “A soft revolver bullet, as you perceive, + Watson. There's genius in that, for who would expect to find such a thing + fired from an air-gun. All right, Mrs. Hudson, I am much obliged for your + assistance. And now, Watson, let me see you in your old seat once more, + for there are several points which I should like to discuss with you.” + </p> + <p> + He had thrown off the seedy frock-coat, and now he was the Holmes of old + in the mouse-coloured dressing-gown which he took from his effigy. + </p> + <p> + “The old shikari's nerves have not lost their steadiness nor his eyes + their keenness,” said he, with a laugh, as he inspected the shattered + forehead of his bust. + </p> + <p> + “Plumb in the middle of the back of the head and smack through the brain. + He was the best shot in India, and I expect that there are few better in + London. Have you heard the name?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I have not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, such is fame! But, then, if I remember aright, you had not + heard the name of Professor James Moriarty, who had one of the great + brains of the century. Just give me down my index of biographies from the + shelf.” + </p> + <p> + He turned over the pages lazily, leaning back in his chair and blowing + great clouds from his cigar. + </p> + <p> + “My collection of M's is a fine one,” said he. “Moriarty himself is enough + to make any letter illustrious, and here is Morgan the poisoner, and + Merridew of abominable memory, and Mathews, who knocked out my left canine + in the waiting-room at Charing Cross, and, finally, here is our friend of + to-night.” + </p> + <p> + He handed over the book, and I read: “MORAN, SEBASTIAN, COLONEL. + Unemployed. Formerly 1st Bengalore Pioneers. Born London, 1840. Son of Sir + Augustus Moran, C.B., once British Minister to Persia. Educated Eton and + Oxford. Served in Jowaki Campaign, Afghan Campaign, Charasiab + (despatches), Sherpur, and Cabul. Author of 'Heavy Game of the Western + Himalayas,' 1881; 'Three Months in the Jungle,' 1884. Address: Conduit + Street. Clubs: The Anglo-Indian, the Tankerville, the Bagatelle Card + Club.” + </p> + <p> + On the margin was written, in Holmes's precise hand: “The second most + dangerous man in London.” + </p> + <p> + “This is astonishing,” said I, as I handed back the volume. “The man's + career is that of an honourable soldier.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” Holmes answered. “Up to a certain point he did well. He was + always a man of iron nerve, and the story is still told in India how he + crawled down a drain after a wounded man-eating tiger. There are some + trees, Watson, which grow to a certain height and then suddenly develop + some unsightly eccentricity. You will see it often in humans. I have a + theory that the individual represents in his development the whole + procession of his ancestors, and that such a sudden turn to good or evil + stands for some strong influence which came into the line of his pedigree. + The person becomes, as it were, the epitome of the history of his own + family.” + </p> + <p> + “It is surely rather fanciful.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't insist upon it. Whatever the cause, Colonel Moran began to + go wrong. Without any open scandal, he still made India too hot to hold + him. He retired, came to London, and again acquired an evil name. It was + at this time that he was sought out by Professor Moriarty, to whom for a + time he was chief of the staff. Moriarty supplied him liberally with money + and used him only in one or two very high-class jobs which no ordinary + criminal could have undertaken. You may have some recollection of the + death of Mrs. Stewart, of Lauder, in 1887. Not? Well, I am sure Moran was + at the bottom of it; but nothing could be proved. So cleverly was the + Colonel concealed that even when the Moriarty gang was broken up we could + not incriminate him. You remember at that date, when I called upon you in + your rooms, how I put up the shutters for fear of air-guns? No doubt you + thought me fanciful. I knew exactly what I was doing, for I knew of the + existence of this remarkable gun, and I knew also that one of the best + shots in the world would be behind it. When we were in Switzerland he + followed us with Moriarty, and it was undoubtedly he who gave me that evil + five minutes on the Reichenbach ledge. + </p> + <p> + “You may think that I read the papers with some attention during my + sojourn in France, on the look-out for any chance of laying him by the + heels. So long as he was free in London my life would really not have been + worth living. Night and day the shadow would have been over me, and sooner + or later his chance must have come. What could I do? I could not shoot him + at sight, or I should myself be in the dock. There was no use appealing to + a magistrate. They cannot interfere on the strength of what would appear + to them to be a wild suspicion. So I could do nothing. But I watched the + criminal news, knowing that sooner or later I should get him. Then came + the death of this Ronald Adair. My chance had come at last! Knowing what I + did, was it not certain that Colonel Moran had done it? He had played + cards with the lad; he had followed him home from the club; he had shot + him through the open window. There was not a doubt of it. The bullets + alone are enough to put his head in a noose. I came over at once. I was + seen by the sentinel, who would, I knew, direct the Colonel's attention to + my presence. He could not fail to connect my sudden return with his crime + and to be terribly alarmed. I was sure that he would make an attempt to + get me out of the way AT ONCE, and would bring round his murderous weapon + for that purpose. I left him an excellent mark in the window, and, having + warned the police that they might be needed—by the way, Watson, you + spotted their presence in that doorway with unerring accuracy—I took + up what seemed to me to be a judicious post for observation, never + dreaming that he would choose the same spot for his attack. Now, my dear + Watson, does anything remain for me to explain?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said I. “You have not made it clear what was Colonel Moran's motive + in murdering the Honourable Ronald Adair.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! my dear Watson, there we come into those realms of conjecture where + the most logical mind may be at fault. Each may form his own hypothesis + upon the present evidence, and yours is as likely to be correct as mine.” + </p> + <p> + “You have formed one, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I think that it is not difficult to explain the facts. It came out in + evidence that Colonel Moran and young Adair had between them won a + considerable amount of money. Now, Moran undoubtedly played foul—of + that I have long been aware. I believe that on the day of the murder Adair + had discovered that Moran was cheating. Very likely he had spoken to him + privately, and had threatened to expose him unless he voluntarily resigned + his membership of the club and promised not to play cards again. It is + unlikely that a youngster like Adair would at once make a hideous scandal + by exposing a well-known man so much older than himself. Probably he acted + as I suggest. The exclusion from his clubs would mean ruin to Moran, who + lived by his ill-gotten card gains. He therefore murdered Adair, who at + the time was endeavouring to work out how much money he should himself + return, since he could not profit by his partner's foul play. He locked + the door lest the ladies should surprise him and insist upon knowing what + he was doing with these names and coins. Will it pass?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt that you have hit upon the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be verified or disproved at the trial. Meanwhile, come what may, + Colonel Moran will trouble us no more, the famous air-gun of Von Herder + will embellish the Scotland Yard Museum, and once again Mr. Sherlock + Holmes is free to devote his life to examining those interesting little + problems which the complex life of London so plentifully presents.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 26 NOVEMBER, 1903 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + II.—The Adventure of the Norwood Builder. + </h2> + <p> + “FROM the point of view of the criminal expert,” said Mr. Sherlock Holmes, + “London has become a singularly uninteresting city since the death of the + late lamented Professor Moriarty.” + </p> + <p> + “I can hardly think that you would find many decent citizens to agree with + you,” I answered. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, I must not be selfish,” said he, with a smile, as he pushed + back his chair from the breakfast-table. “The community is certainly the + gainer, and no one the loser, save the poor out-of-work specialist, whose + occupation has gone. With that man in the field one's morning paper + presented infinite possibilities. Often it was only the smallest trace, + Watson, the faintest indication, and yet it was enough to tell me that the + great malignant brain was there, as the gentlest tremors of the edges of + the web remind one of the foul spider which lurks in the centre. Petty + thefts, wanton assaults, purposeless outrage—to the man who held the + clue all could be worked into one connected whole. To the scientific + student of the higher criminal world no capital in Europe offered the + advantages which London then possessed. But now——” He shrugged + his shoulders in humorous deprecation of the state of things which he had + himself done so much to produce. + </p> + <p> + At the time of which I speak Holmes had been back for some months, and I, + at his request, had sold my practice and returned to share the old + quarters in Baker Street. A young doctor, named Verner, had purchased my + small Kensington practice, and given with astonishingly little demur the + highest price that I ventured to ask—an incident which only + explained itself some years later when I found that Verner was a distant + relation of Holmes's, and that it was my friend who had really found the + money. + </p> + <p> + Our months of partnership had not been so uneventful as he had stated, for + I find, on looking over my notes, that this period includes the case of + the papers of Ex-President Murillo, and also the shocking affair of the + Dutch steamship FRIESLAND, which so nearly cost us both our lives. His + cold and proud nature was always averse, however, to anything in the shape + of public applause, and he bound me in the most stringent terms to say no + further word of himself, his methods, or his successes—a prohibition + which, as I have explained, has only now been removed. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sherlock Holmes was leaning back in his chair after his whimsical + protest, and was unfolding his morning paper in a leisurely fashion, when + our attention was arrested by a tremendous ring at the bell, followed + immediately by a hollow drumming sound, as if someone were beating on the + outer door with his fist. As it opened there came a tumultuous rush into + the hall, rapid feet clattered up the stair, and an instant later a + wild-eyed and frantic young man, pale, dishevelled, and palpitating, burst + into the room. He looked from one to the other of us, and under our gaze + of inquiry he became conscious that some apology was needed for this + unceremonious entry. + </p> + <p> + “I'm sorry, Mr. Holmes,” he cried. “You mustn't blame me. I am nearly mad. + Mr. Holmes, I am the unhappy John Hector McFarlane.” + </p> + <p> + He made the announcement as if the name alone would explain both his visit + and its manner; but I could see by my companion's unresponsive face that + it meant no more to him than to me. + </p> + <p> + “Have a cigarette, Mr. McFarlane,” said he, pushing his case across. “I am + sure that with your symptoms my friend Dr. Watson here would prescribe a + sedative. The weather has been so very warm these last few days. Now, if + you feel a little more composed, I should be glad if you would sit down in + that chair and tell us very slowly and quietly who you are and what it is + that you want. You mentioned your name as if I should recognise it, but I + assure you that, beyond the obvious facts that you are a bachelor, a + solicitor, a Freemason, and an asthmatic, I know nothing whatever about + you.” + </p> + <p> + Familiar as I was with my friend's methods, it was not difficult for me to + follow his deductions, and to observe the untidiness of attire, the sheaf + of legal papers, the watch-charm, and the breathing which had prompted + them. Our client, however, stared in amazement. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am all that, Mr. Holmes, and in addition I am the most unfortunate + man at this moment in London. For Heaven's sake don't abandon me, Mr. + Holmes! If they come to arrest me before I have finished my story, make + them give me time so that I may tell you the whole truth. I could go to + gaol happy if I knew that you were working for me outside.” + </p> + <p> + “Arrest you!” said Holmes. “This is really most grati—most + interesting. On what charge do you expect to be arrested?” + </p> + <p> + “Upon the charge of murdering Mr. Jonas Oldacre, of Lower Norwood.” + </p> + <p> + My companion's expressive face showed a sympathy which was not, I am + afraid, entirely unmixed with satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me,” said he; “it was only this moment at breakfast that I was + saying to my friend, Dr. Watson, that sensational cases had disappeared + out of our papers.” + </p> + <p> + Our visitor stretched forward a quivering hand and picked up the DAILY + TELEGRAPH, which still lay upon Holmes's knee. + </p> + <p> + “If you had looked at it, sir, you would have seen at a glance what the + errand is on which I have come to you this morning. I feel as if my name + and my misfortune must be in every man's mouth.” He turned it over to + expose the central page. “Here it is, and with your permission I will read + it to you. Listen to this, Mr. Holmes. The head-lines are: 'Mysterious + Affair at Lower Norwood. Disappearance of a Well-known Builder. Suspicion + of Murder and Arson. A Clue to the Criminal.' That is the clue which they + are already following, Mr. Holmes, and I know that it leads infallibly to + me. I have been followed from London Bridge Station, and I am sure that + they are only waiting for the warrant to arrest me. It will break my + mother's heart—it will break her heart!” He wrung his hands in an + agony of apprehension, and swayed backwards and forwards in his chair. + </p> + <p> + I looked with interest upon this man, who was accused of being the + perpetrator of a crime of violence. He was flaxen-haired and handsome in a + washed-out negative fashion, with frightened blue eyes and a clean-shaven + face, with a weak, sensitive mouth. His age may have been about + twenty-seven; his dress and bearing that of a gentleman. From the pocket + of his light summer overcoat protruded the bundle of endorsed papers which + proclaimed his profession. + </p> + <p> + “We must use what time we have,” said Holmes. “Watson, would you have the + kindness to take the paper and to read me the paragraph in question?” + </p> + <p> + Underneath the vigorous head-lines which our client had quoted I read the + following suggestive narrative:— + </p> + <p> + Late last night, or early this morning, an incident occurred at Lower + Norwood which points, it is feared, to a serious crime. Mr. Jonas Oldacre + is a well-known resident of that suburb, where he has carried on his + business as a builder for many years. Mr. Oldacre is a bachelor, fifty-two + years of age, and lives in Deep Dene House, at the Sydenham end of the + road of that name. He has had the reputation of being a man of eccentric + habits, secretive and retiring. For some years he has practically + withdrawn from the business, in which he is said to have amassed + considerable wealth. A small timber-yard still exists, however, at the + back of the house, and last night, about twelve o'clock, an alarm was + given that one of the stacks was on fire. The engines were soon upon the + spot, but the dry wood burned with great fury, and it was impossible to + arrest the conflagration until the stack had been entirely consumed. Up to + this point the incident bore the appearance of an ordinary accident, but + fresh indications seem to point to serious crime. Surprise was expressed + at the absence of the master of the establishment from the scene of the + fire, and an inquiry followed, which showed that he had disappeared from + the house. An examination of his room revealed that the bed had not been + slept in, that a safe which stood in it was open, that a number of + important papers were scattered about the room, and, finally, that there + were signs of a murderous struggle, slight traces of blood being found + within the room, and an oaken walking-stick, which also showed stains of + blood upon the handle. It is known that Mr. Jonas Oldacre had received a + late visitor in his bedroom upon that night, and the stick found has been + identified as the property of this person, who is a young London solicitor + named John Hector McFarlane, junior partner of Graham and McFarlane, of + 426, Gresham Buildings, E.C. The police believe that they have evidence in + their possession which supplies a very convincing motive for the crime, + and altogether it cannot be doubted that sensational developments will + follow. + </p> + <p> + LATER.—It is rumoured as we go to press that Mr. John Hector + McFarlane has actually been arrested on the charge of the murder of Mr. + Jonas Oldacre. It is at least certain that a warrant has been issued. + There have been further and sinister developments in the investigation at + Norwood. Besides the signs of a struggle in the room of the unfortunate + builder it is now known that the French windows of his bedroom (which is + on the ground floor) were found to be open, that there were marks as if + some bulky object had been dragged across to the wood-pile, and, finally, + it is asserted that charred remains have been found among the charcoal + ashes of the fire. The police theory is that a most sensational crime has + been committed, that the victim was clubbed to death in his own bedroom, + his papers rifled, and his dead body dragged across to the wood-stack, + which was then ignited so as to hide all traces of the crime. The conduct + of the criminal investigation has been left in the experienced hands of + Inspector Lestrade, of Scotland Yard, who is following up the clues with + his accustomed energy and sagacity. + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes listened with closed eyes and finger-tips together to this + remarkable account. + </p> + <p> + “The case has certainly some points of interest,” said he, in his languid + fashion. “May I ask, in the first place, Mr. McFarlane, how it is that you + are still at liberty, since there appears to be enough evidence to justify + your arrest?” + </p> + <p> + “I live at Torrington Lodge, Blackheath, with my parents, Mr. Holmes; but + last night, having to do business very late with Mr. Jonas Oldacre, I + stayed at an hotel in Norwood, and came to my business from there. I knew + nothing of this affair until I was in the train, when I read what you have + just heard. I at once saw the horrible danger of my position, and I + hurried to put the case into your hands. I have no doubt that I should + have been arrested either at my City office or at my home. A man followed + me from London Bridge Station, and I have no doubt—Great Heaven, + what is that?” + </p> + <p> + It was a clang of the bell, followed instantly by heavy steps upon the + stair. A moment later our old friend Lestrade appeared in the doorway. + Over his shoulder I caught a glimpse of one or two uniformed policemen + outside. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. John Hector McFarlane?” said Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + Our unfortunate client rose with a ghastly face. + </p> + <p> + “I arrest you for the wilful murder of Mr. Jonas Oldacre, of Lower + Norwood.” + </p> + <p> + McFarlane turned to us with a gesture of despair, and sank into his chair + once more like one who is crushed. + </p> + <p> + “One moment, Lestrade,” said Holmes. “Half an hour more or less can make + no difference to you, and the gentleman was about to give us an account of + this very interesting affair, which might aid us in clearing it up.” + </p> + <p> + “I think there will be no difficulty in clearing it up,” said Lestrade, + grimly. + </p> + <p> + “None the less, with your permission, I should be much interested to hear + his account.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes, it is difficult for me to refuse you anything, for you + have been of use to the force once or twice in the past, and we owe you a + good turn at Scotland Yard,” said Lestrade. “At the same time I must + remain with my prisoner, and I am bound to warn him that anything he may + say will appear in evidence against him.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish nothing better,” said our client. “All I ask is that you should + hear and recognise the absolute truth.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade looked at his watch. “I'll give you half an hour,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I must explain first,” said McFarlane, “that I knew nothing of Mr. Jonas + Oldacre. His name was familiar to me, for many years ago my parents were + acquainted with him, but they drifted apart. I was very much surprised, + therefore, when yesterday, about three o'clock in the afternoon, he walked + into my office in the City. But I was still more astonished when he told + me the object of his visit. He had in his hand several sheets of a + note-book, covered with scribbled writing—here they are—and he + laid them on my table. + </p> + <p> + “'Here is my will,' said he. 'I want you, Mr. McFarlane, to cast it into + proper legal shape. I will sit here while you do so.' + </p> + <p> + “I set myself to copy it, and you can imagine my astonishment when I found + that, with some reservations, he had left all his property to me. He was a + strange little, ferret-like man, with white eyelashes, and when I looked + up at him I found his keen grey eyes fixed upon me with an amused + expression. I could hardly believe my own senses as I read the terms of + the will; but he explained that he was a bachelor with hardly any living + relation, that he had known my parents in his youth, and that he had + always heard of me as a very deserving young man, and was assured that his + money would be in worthy hands. Of course, I could only stammer out my + thanks. The will was duly finished, signed, and witnessed by my clerk. + This is it on the blue paper, and these slips, as I have explained, are + the rough draft. Mr. Jonas Oldacre then informed me that there were a + number of documents—building leases, title-deeds, mortgages, scrip, + and so forth—which it was necessary that I should see and + understand. He said that his mind would not be easy until the whole thing + was settled, and he begged me to come out to his house at Norwood that + night, bringing the will with me, and to arrange matters. 'Remember, my + boy, not one word to your parents about the affair until everything is + settled. We will keep it as a little surprise for them.' He was very + insistent upon this point, and made me promise it faithfully. + </p> + <p> + “You can imagine, Mr. Holmes, that I was not in a humour to refuse him + anything that he might ask. He was my benefactor, and all my desire was to + carry out his wishes in every particular. I sent a telegram home, + therefore, to say that I had important business on hand, and that it was + impossible for me to say how late I might be. Mr. Oldacre had told me that + he would like me to have supper with him at nine, as he might not be home + before that hour. I had some difficulty in finding his house, however, and + it was nearly half-past before I reached it. I found him—” + </p> + <p> + “One moment!” said Holmes. “Who opened the door?” + </p> + <p> + “A middle-aged woman, who was, I suppose, his housekeeper.” + </p> + <p> + “And it was she, I presume, who mentioned your name?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly,” said McFarlane. + </p> + <p> + “Pray proceed.” + </p> + <p> + McFarlane wiped his damp brow and then continued his narrative:— + </p> + <p> + “I was shown by this woman into a sitting-room, where a frugal supper was + laid out. Afterwards Mr. Jonas Oldacre led me into his bedroom, in which + there stood a heavy safe. This he opened and took out a mass of documents, + which we went over together. It was between eleven and twelve when we + finished. He remarked that we must not disturb the housekeeper. He showed + me out through his own French window, which had been open all this time.” + </p> + <p> + “Was the blind down?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “I will not be sure, but I believe that it was only half down. Yes, I + remember how he pulled it up in order to swing open the window. I could + not find my stick, and he said, 'Never mind, my boy; I shall see a good + deal of you now, I hope, and I will keep your stick until you come back to + claim it.' I left him there, the safe open, and the papers made up in + packets upon the table. It was so late that I could not get back to + Blackheath, so I spent the night at the Anerley Arms, and I knew nothing + more until I read of this horrible affair in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything more that you would like to ask, Mr. Holmes?” said Lestrade, + whose eyebrows had gone up once or twice during this remarkable + explanation. + </p> + <p> + “Not until I have been to Blackheath.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean to Norwood,” said Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes; no doubt that is what I must have meant,” said Holmes, with his + enigmatical smile. Lestrade had learned by more experiences than he would + care to acknowledge that that razor-like brain could cut through that + which was impenetrable to him. I saw him look curiously at my companion. + </p> + <p> + “I think I should like to have a word with you presently, Mr. Sherlock + Holmes,” said he. “Now, Mr. McFarlane, two of my constables are at the + door and there is a four-wheeler waiting.” The wretched young man arose, + and with a last beseeching glance at us walked from the room. The officers + conducted him to the cab, but Lestrade remained. + </p> + <p> + Holmes had picked up the pages which formed the rough draft of the will, + and was looking at them with the keenest interest upon his face. + </p> + <p> + “There are some points about that document, Lestrade, are there not?” said + he, pushing them over. + </p> + <p> + The official looked at them with a puzzled expression. + </p> + <p> + “I can read the first few lines, and these in the middle of the second + page, and one or two at the end. Those are as clear as print,” said he; + “but the writing in between is very bad, and there are three places where + I cannot read it at all.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you make of that?” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Well, what do YOU make of it?” + </p> + <p> + “That it was written in a train; the good writing represents stations, the + bad writing movement, and the very bad writing passing over points. A + scientific expert would pronounce at once that this was drawn up on a + suburban line, since nowhere save in the immediate vicinity of a great + city could there be so quick a succession of points. Granting that his + whole journey was occupied in drawing up the will, then the train was an + express, only stopping once between Norwood and London Bridge.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade began to laugh. + </p> + <p> + “You are too many for me when you begin to get on your theories, Mr. + Holmes,” said he. “How does this bear on the case?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it corroborates the young man's story to the extent that the will + was drawn up by Jonas Oldacre in his journey yesterday. It is curious—is + it not?—that a man should draw up so important a document in so + haphazard a fashion. It suggests that he did not think it was going to be + of much practical importance. If a man drew up a will which he did not + intend ever to be effective he might do it so.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he drew up his own death-warrant at the same time,” said Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you think so?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is quite possible; but the case is not clear to me yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Not clear? Well, if that isn't clear, what COULD be clear? Here is a + young man who learns suddenly that if a certain older man dies he will + succeed to a fortune. What does he do? He says nothing to anyone, but he + arranges that he shall go out on some pretext to see his client that + night; he waits until the only other person in the house is in bed, and + then in the solitude of a man's room he murders him, burns his body in the + wood-pile, and departs to a neighbouring hotel. The blood-stains in the + room and also on the stick are very slight. It is probable that he + imagined his crime to be a bloodless one, and hoped that if the body were + consumed it would hide all traces of the method of his death—traces + which for some reason must have pointed to him. Is all this not obvious?” + </p> + <p> + “It strikes me, my good Lestrade, as being just a trifle too obvious,” + said Holmes. “You do not add imagination to your other great qualities; + but if you could for one moment put yourself in the place of this young + man, would you choose the very night after the will had been made to + commit your crime? Would it not seem dangerous to you to make so very + close a relation between the two incidents? Again, would you choose an + occasion when you are known to be in the house, when a servant has let you + in? And, finally, would you take the great pains to conceal the body and + yet leave your own stick as a sign that you were the criminal? Confess, + Lestrade, that all this is very unlikely.” + </p> + <p> + “As to the stick, Mr. Holmes, you know as well as I do that a criminal is + often flurried and does things which a cool man would avoid. He was very + likely afraid to go back to the room. Give me another theory that would + fit the facts.” + </p> + <p> + “I could very easily give you half-a-dozen,” said Holmes. “Here, for + example, is a very possible and even probable one. I make you a free + present of it. The older man is showing documents which are of evident + value. A passing tramp sees them through the window, the blind of which is + only half down. Exit the solicitor. Enter the tramp! He seizes a stick, + which he observes there, kills Oldacre, and departs after burning the + body.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should the tramp burn the body?” + </p> + <p> + “For the matter of that why should McFarlane?” + </p> + <p> + “To hide some evidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly the tramp wanted to hide that any murder at all had been + committed.” + </p> + <p> + “And why did the tramp take nothing?” + </p> + <p> + “Because they were papers that he could not negotiate.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade shook his head, though it seemed to me that his manner was less + absolutely assured than before. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, you may look for your tramp, and while you are + finding him we will hold on to our man. The future will show which is + right. Just notice this point, Mr. Holmes: that so far as we know none of + the papers were removed, and that the prisoner is the one man in the world + who had no reason for removing them, since he was heir-at-law and would + come into them in any case.” + </p> + <p> + My friend seemed struck by this remark. + </p> + <p> + “I don't mean to deny that the evidence is in some ways very strongly in + favour of your theory,” said he. “I only wish to point out that there are + other theories possible. As you say, the future will decide. Good morning! + I dare say that in the course of the day I shall drop in at Norwood and + see how you are getting on.” + </p> + <p> + When the detective departed my friend rose and made his preparations for + the day's work with the alert air of a man who has a congenial task before + him. + </p> + <p> + “My first movement, Watson,” said he, as he bustled into his frock-coat, + “must, as I said, be in the direction of Blackheath.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not Norwood?” + </p> + <p> + “Because we have in this case one singular incident coming close to the + heels of another singular incident. The police are making the mistake of + concentrating their attention upon the second, because it happens to be + the one which is actually criminal. But it is evident to me that the + logical way to approach the case is to begin by trying to throw some light + upon the first incident—the curious will, so suddenly made, and to + so unexpected an heir. It may do something to simplify what followed. No, + my dear fellow, I don't think you can help me. There is no prospect of + danger, or I should not dream of stirring out without you. I trust that + when I see you in the evening I will be able to report that I have been + able to do something for this unfortunate youngster who has thrown himself + upon my protection.” + </p> + <p> + It was late when my friend returned, and I could see by a glance at his + haggard and anxious face that the high hopes with which he had started had + not been fulfilled. For an hour he droned away upon his violin, + endeavouring to soothe his own ruffled spirits. At last he flung down the + instrument and plunged into a detailed account of his misadventures. + </p> + <p> + “It's all going wrong, Watson—all as wrong as it can go. I kept a + bold face before Lestrade, but, upon my soul, I believe that for once the + fellow is on the right track and we are on the wrong. All my instincts are + one way and all the facts are the other, and I much fear that British + juries have not yet attained that pitch of intelligence when they will + give the preference to my theories over Lestrade's facts.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you go to Blackheath?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Watson, I went there, and I found very quickly that the late + lamented Oldacre was a pretty considerable black-guard. The father was + away in search of his son. The mother was at home—a little, fluffy, + blue-eyed person, in a tremor of fear and indignation. Of course, she + would not admit even the possibility of his guilt. But she would not + express either surprise or regret over the fate of Oldacre. On the + contrary, she spoke of him with such bitterness that she was unconsciously + considerably strengthening the case of the police, for, of course, if her + son had heard her speak of the man in this fashion it would predispose him + towards hatred and violence. 'He was more like a malignant and cunning ape + than a human being,' said she, 'and he always was, ever since he was a + young man.' + </p> + <p> + “'You knew him at that time?' said I. + </p> + <p> + “'Yes, I knew him well; in fact, he was an old suitor of mine. Thank + Heaven that I had the sense to turn away from him and to marry a better, + if a poorer, man. I was engaged to him, Mr. Holmes, when I heard a + shocking story of how he had turned a cat loose in an aviary, and I was so + horrified at his brutal cruelty that I would have nothing more to do with + him.' She rummaged in a bureau, and presently she produced a photograph of + a woman, shamefully defaced and mutilated with a knife. 'That is my own + photograph,' she said. 'He sent it to me in that state, with his curse, + upon my wedding morning.' + </p> + <p> + “'Well,' said I, 'at least he has forgiven you now, since he has left all + his property to your son.' + </p> + <p> + “'Neither my son nor I want anything from Jonas Oldacre, dead or alive,' + she cried, with a proper spirit. 'There is a God in Heaven, Mr. Holmes, + and that same God who has punished that wicked man will show in His own + good time that my son's hands are guiltless of his blood.' + </p> + <p> + “Well, I tried one or two leads, but could get at nothing which would help + our hypothesis, and several points which would make against it. I gave it + up at last and off I went to Norwood. + </p> + <p> + “This place, Deep Dene House, is a big modern villa of staring brick, + standing back in its own grounds, with a laurel-clumped lawn in front of + it. To the right and some distance back from the road was the timber-yard + which had been the scene of the fire. Here's a rough plan on a leaf of my + note-book. This window on the left is the one which opens into Oldacre's + room. You can look into it from the road, you see. That is about the only + bit of consolation I have had to-day. Lestrade was not there, but his head + constable did the honours. They had just made a great treasure-trove. They + had spent the morning raking among the ashes of the burned wood-pile, and + besides the charred organic remains they had secured several discoloured + metal discs. I examined them with care, and there was no doubt that they + were trouser buttons. I even distinguished that one of them was marked + with the name of 'Hyams,' who was Oldacre's tailor. I then worked the lawn + very carefully for signs and traces, but this drought has made everything + as hard as iron. Nothing was to be seen save that some body or bundle had + been dragged through a low privet hedge which is in a line with the + wood-pile. All that, of course, fits in with the official theory. I + crawled about the lawn with an August sun on my back, but I got up at the + end of an hour no wiser than before. + </p> + <p> + “Well, after this fiasco I went into the bedroom and examined that also. + The blood-stains were very slight, mere smears and discolorations, but + undoubtedly fresh. The stick had been removed, but there also the marks + were slight. There is no doubt about the stick belonging to our client. He + admits it. Footmarks of both men could be made out on the carpet, but none + of any third person, which again is a trick for the other side. They were + piling up their score all the time and we were at a standstill. + </p> + <p> + “Only one little gleam of hope did I get—and yet it amounted to + nothing. I examined the contents of the safe, most of which had been taken + out and left on the table. The papers had been made up into sealed + envelopes, one or two of which had been opened by the police. They were + not, so far as I could judge, of any great value, nor did the bank-book + show that Mr. Oldacre was in such very affluent circumstances. But it + seemed to me that all the papers were not there. There were allusions to + some deeds—possibly the more valuable—which I could not find. + This, of course, if we could definitely prove it, would turn Lestrade's + argument against himself, for who would steal a thing if he knew that he + would shortly inherit it? + </p> + <p> + “Finally, having drawn every other cover and picked up no scent, I tried + my luck with the housekeeper. Mrs. Lexington is her name, a little, dark, + silent person, with suspicious and sidelong eyes. She could tell us + something if she would—I am convinced of it. But she was as close as + wax. Yes, she had let Mr. McFarlane in at half-past nine. She wished her + hand had withered before she had done so. She had gone to bed at half-past + ten. Her room was at the other end of the house, and she could hear + nothing of what passed. Mr. McFarlane had left his hat, and to the best of + her belief his stick, in the hall. She had been awakened by the alarm of + fire. Her poor, dear master had certainly been murdered. Had he any + enemies? Well, every man had enemies, but Mr. Oldacre kept himself very + much to himself, and only met people in the way of business. She had seen + the buttons, and was sure that they belonged to the clothes which he had + worn last night. The wood-pile was very dry, for it had not rained for a + month. It burned like tinder, and by the time she reached the spot nothing + could be seen but flames. She and all the firemen smelled the burned flesh + from inside it. She knew nothing of the papers, nor of Mr. Oldacre's + private affairs. + </p> + <p> + “So, my dear Watson, there's my report of a failure. And yet—and yet—“—he + clenched his thin hands in a paroxysm of conviction—“I KNOW it's all + wrong. I feel it in my bones. There is something that has not come out, + and that housekeeper knows it. There was a sort of sulky defiance in her + eyes, which only goes with guilty knowledge. However, there's no good + talking any more about it, Watson; but unless some lucky chance comes our + way I fear that the Norwood Disappearance Case will not figure in that + chronicle of our successes which I foresee that a patient public will + sooner or later have to endure.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely,” said I, “the man's appearance would go far with any jury?” + </p> + <p> + “That is a dangerous argument, my dear Watson. You remember that terrible + murderer, Bert Stevens, who wanted us to get him off in '87? Was there + ever a more mild-mannered, Sunday-school young man?” + </p> + <p> + “It is true.” + </p> + <p> + “Unless we succeed in establishing an alternative theory this man is lost. + You can hardly find a flaw in the case which can now be presented against + him, and all further investigation has served to strengthen it. By the + way, there is one curious little point about those papers which may serve + us as the starting-point for an inquiry. On looking over the bank-book I + found that the low state of the balance was principally due to large + cheques which have been made out during the last year to Mr. Cornelius. I + confess that I should be interested to know who this Mr. Cornelius may be + with whom a retired builder has such very large transactions. Is it + possible that he has had a hand in the affair? Cornelius might be a + broker, but we have found no scrip to correspond with these large + payments. Failing any other indication my researches must now take the + direction of an inquiry at the bank for the gentleman who has cashed these + cheques. But I fear, my dear fellow, that our case will end ingloriously + by Lestrade hanging our client, which will certainly be a triumph for + Scotland Yard.” + </p> + <p> + I do not know how far Sherlock Holmes took any sleep that night, but when + I came down to breakfast I found him pale and harassed, his bright eyes + the brighter for the dark shadows round them. The carpet round his chair + was littered with cigarette-ends and with the early editions of the + morning papers. An open telegram lay upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of this, Watson?” he asked, tossing it across. + </p> + <p> + It was from Norwood, and ran as follows:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “IMPORTANT FRESH EVIDENCE TO HAND. MCFARLANE'S GUILT + DEFINITELY ESTABLISHED. ADVISE YOU TO ABANDON CASE. + —LESTRADE.” + </pre> + <p> + “This sounds serious,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “It is Lestrade's little cock-a-doodle of victory,” Holmes answered, with + a bitter smile. “And yet it may be premature to abandon the case. After + all, important fresh evidence is a two-edged thing, and may possibly cut + in a very different direction to that which Lestrade imagines. Take your + breakfast, Watson, and we will go out together and see what we can do. I + feel as if I shall need your company and your moral support to-day.” + </p> + <p> + My friend had no breakfast himself, for it was one of his peculiarities + that in his more intense moments he would permit himself no food, and I + have known him presume upon his iron strength until he has fainted from + pure inanition. “At present I cannot spare energy and nerve force for + digestion,” he would say in answer to my medical remonstrances. I was not + surprised, therefore, when this morning he left his untouched meal behind + him and started with me for Norwood. A crowd of morbid sightseers were + still gathered round Deep Dene House, which was just such a suburban villa + as I had pictured. Within the gates Lestrade met us, his face flushed with + victory, his manner grossly triumphant. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes, have you proved us to be wrong yet? Have you found your + tramp?” he cried. + </p> + <p> + “I have formed no conclusion whatever,” my companion answered. + </p> + <p> + “But we formed ours yesterday, and now it proves to be correct; so you + must acknowledge that we have been a little in front of you this time, Mr. + Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “You certainly have the air of something unusual having occurred,” said + Holmes. + </p> + <p> + Lestrade laughed loudly. + </p> + <p> + “You don't like being beaten any more than the rest of us do,” said he. “A + man can't expect always to have it his own way, can he, Dr. Watson? Step + this way, if you please, gentlemen, and I think I can convince you once + for all that it was John McFarlane who did this crime.” + </p> + <p> + He led us through the passage and out into a dark hall beyond. + </p> + <p> + “This is where young McFarlane must have come out to get his hat after the + crime was done,” said he. “Now, look at this.” With dramatic suddenness he + struck a match and by its light exposed a stain of blood upon the + whitewashed wall. As he held the match nearer I saw that it was more than + a stain. It was the well-marked print of a thumb. + </p> + <p> + “Look at that with your magnifying glass, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am doing so.” + </p> + <p> + “You are aware that no two thumb marks are alike?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard something of the kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, will you please compare that print with this wax impression + of young McFarlane's right thumb, taken by my orders this morning?” + </p> + <p> + As he held the waxen print close to the blood-stain it did not take a + magnifying glass to see that the two were undoubtedly from the same thumb. + It was evident to me that our unfortunate client was lost. + </p> + <p> + “That is final,” said Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is final,” I involuntarily echoed. + </p> + <p> + “It is final,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + Something in his tone caught my ear, and I turned to look at him. An + extraordinary change had come over his face. It was writhing with inward + merriment. His two eyes were shining like stars. It seemed to me that he + was making desperate efforts to restrain a convulsive attack of laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! Dear me!” he said at last. “Well, now, who would have thought + it? And how deceptive appearances may be, to be sure! Such a nice young + man to look at! It is a lesson to us not to trust our own judgment, is it + not, Lestrade?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, some of us are a little too much inclined to be cocksure, Mr. + Holmes,” said Lestrade. The man's insolence was maddening, but we could + not resent it. + </p> + <p> + “What a providential thing that this young man should press his right + thumb against the wall in taking his hat from the peg! Such a very natural + action, too, if you come to think of it.” Holmes was outwardly calm, but + his whole body gave a wriggle of suppressed excitement as he spoke. “By + the way, Lestrade, who made this remarkable discovery?” + </p> + <p> + “It was the housekeeper, Mrs. Lexington, who drew the night constable's + attention to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Where was the night constable?” + </p> + <p> + “He remained on guard in the bedroom where the crime was committed, so as + to see that nothing was touched.” + </p> + <p> + “But why didn't the police see this mark yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we had no particular reason to make a careful examination of the + hall. Besides, it's not in a very prominent place, as you see.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, of course not. I suppose there is no doubt that the mark was + there yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade looked at Holmes as if he thought he was going out of his mind. I + confess that I was myself surprised both at his hilarious manner and at + his rather wild observation. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether you think that McFarlane came out of gaol in the + dead of the night in order to strengthen the evidence against himself,” + said Lestrade. “I leave it to any expert in the world whether that is not + the mark of his thumb.” + </p> + <p> + “It is unquestionably the mark of his thumb.” + </p> + <p> + “There, that's enough,” said Lestrade. “I am a practical man, Mr. Holmes, + and when I have got my evidence I come to my conclusions. If you have + anything to say you will find me writing my report in the sitting-room.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had recovered his equanimity, though I still seemed to detect + gleams of amusement in his expression. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me, this is a very sad development, Watson, is it not?” said he. + “And yet there are singular points about it which hold out some hopes for + our client.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to hear it,” said I, heartily. “I was afraid it was all up + with him.” + </p> + <p> + “I would hardly go so far as to say that, my dear Watson. The fact is that + there is one really serious flaw in this evidence to which our friend + attaches so much importance.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, Holmes! What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Only this: that I KNOW that that mark was not there when I examined the + hall yesterday. And now, Watson, let us have a little stroll round in the + sunshine.” + </p> + <p> + With a confused brain, but with a heart into which some warmth of hope was + returning, I accompanied my friend in a walk round the garden. Holmes took + each face of the house in turn and examined it with great interest. He + then led the way inside and went over the whole building from basement to + attics. Most of the rooms were unfurnished, but none the less Holmes + inspected them all minutely. Finally, on the top corridor, which ran + outside three untenanted bedrooms, he again was seized with a spasm of + merriment. + </p> + <p> + “There are really some very unique features about this case, Watson,” said + he. “I think it is time now that we took our friend Lestrade into our + confidence. He has had his little smile at our expense, and perhaps we may + do as much by him if my reading of this problem proves to be correct. Yes, + yes; I think I see how we should approach it.” + </p> + <p> + The Scotland Yard inspector was still writing in the parlour when Holmes + interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “I understood that you were writing a report of this case,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “So I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think it may be a little premature? I can't help thinking that + your evidence is not complete.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade knew my friend too well to disregard his words. He laid down his + pen and looked curiously at him. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “Only that there is an important witness whom you have not seen.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you produce him?” + </p> + <p> + “I think I can.” + </p> + <p> + “Then do so.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do my best. How many constables have you?” + </p> + <p> + “There are three within call.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent!” said Holmes. “May I ask if they are all large, able-bodied + men with powerful voices?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt they are, though I fail to see what their voices have to + do with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I can help you to see that and one or two other things as well,” + said Holmes. “Kindly summon your men, and I will try.” + </p> + <p> + Five minutes later three policemen had assembled in the hall. + </p> + <p> + “In the outhouse you will find a considerable quantity of straw,” said + Holmes. “I will ask you to carry in two bundles of it. I think it will be + of the greatest assistance in producing the witness whom I require. Thank + you very much. I believe you have some matches in your pocket, Watson. + Now, Mr. Lestrade, I will ask you all to accompany me to the top landing.” + </p> + <p> + As I have said, there was a broad corridor there, which ran outside three + empty bedrooms. At one end of the corridor we were all marshalled by + Sherlock Holmes, the constables grinning and Lestrade staring at my friend + with amazement, expectation, and derision chasing each other across his + features. Holmes stood before us with the air of a conjurer who is + performing a trick. + </p> + <p> + “Would you kindly send one of your constables for two buckets of water? + Put the straw on the floor here, free from the wall on either side. Now I + think that we are all ready.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade's face had begun to grow red and angry. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether you are playing a game with us, Mr. Sherlock + Holmes,” said he. “If you know anything, you can surely say it without all + this tomfoolery.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, my good Lestrade, that I have an excellent reason for + everything that I do. You may possibly remember that you chaffed me a + little some hours ago, when the sun seemed on your side of the hedge, so + you must not grudge me a little pomp and ceremony now. Might I ask you, + Watson, to open that window, and then to put a match to the edge of the + straw?” + </p> + <p> + I did so, and, driven by the draught, a coil of grey smoke swirled down + the corridor, while the dry straw crackled and flamed. + </p> + <p> + “Now we must see if we can find this witness for you, Lestrade. Might I + ask you all to join in the cry of 'Fire!'? Now, then; one, two, three—” + </p> + <p> + “Fire!” we all yelled. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you. I will trouble you once again.” + </p> + <p> + “Fire!” + </p> + <p> + “Just once more, gentlemen, and all together.” + </p> + <p> + “Fire!” The shout must have rung over Norwood. + </p> + <p> + It had hardly died away when an amazing thing happened. A door suddenly + flew open out of what appeared to be solid wall at the end of the + corridor, and a little, wizened man darted out of it, like a rabbit out of + its burrow. + </p> + <p> + “Capital!” said Holmes, calmly. “Watson, a bucket of water over the straw. + That will do! Lestrade, allow me to present you with your principal + missing witness, Mr. Jonas Oldacre.” + </p> + <p> + The detective stared at the new-comer with blank amazement. The latter was + blinking in the bright light of the corridor, and peering at us and at the + smouldering fire. It was an odious face—crafty, vicious, malignant, + with shifty, light-grey eyes and white eyelashes. + </p> + <p> + “What's this, then?” said Lestrade at last. “What have you been doing all + this time, eh?” + </p> + <p> + Oldacre gave an uneasy laugh, shrinking back from the furious red face of + the angry detective. + </p> + <p> + “I have done no harm.” + </p> + <p> + “No harm? You have done your best to get an innocent man hanged. If it + wasn't for this gentleman here, I am not sure that you would not have + succeeded.” + </p> + <p> + The wretched creature began to whimper. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure, sir, it was only my practical joke.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! a joke, was it? You won't find the laugh on your side, I promise you. + Take him down and keep him in the sitting-room until I come. Mr. Holmes,” + he continued, when they had gone, “I could not speak before the + constables, but I don't mind saying, in the presence of Dr. Watson, that + this is the brightest thing that you have done yet, though it is a mystery + to me how you did it. You have saved an innocent man's life, and you have + prevented a very grave scandal, which would have ruined my reputation in + the Force.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smiled and clapped Lestrade upon the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Instead of being ruined, my good sir, you will find that your reputation + has been enormously enhanced. Just make a few alterations in that report + which you were writing, and they will understand how hard it is to throw + dust in the eyes of Inspector Lestrade.” + </p> + <p> + “And you don't want your name to appear?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. The work is its own reward. Perhaps I shall get the credit + also at some distant day when I permit my zealous historian to lay out his + foolscap once more—eh, Watson? Well, now, let us see where this rat + has been lurking.” + </p> + <p> + A lath-and-plaster partition had been run across the passage six feet from + the end, with a door cunningly concealed in it. It was lit within by slits + under the eaves. A few articles of furniture and a supply of food and + water were within, together with a number of books and papers. + </p> + <p> + “There's the advantage of being a builder,” said Holmes, as we came out. + “He was able to fix up his own little hiding-place without any confederate—save, + of course, that precious housekeeper of his, whom I should lose no time in + adding to your bag, Lestrade.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll take your advice. But how did you know of this place, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “I made up my mind that the fellow was in hiding in the house. When I + paced one corridor and found it six feet shorter than the corresponding + one below, it was pretty clear where he was. I thought he had not the + nerve to lie quiet before an alarm of fire. We could, of course, have gone + in and taken him, but it amused me to make him reveal himself; besides, I + owed you a little mystification, Lestrade, for your chaff in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, you certainly got equal with me on that. But how in the world + did you know that he was in the house at all?” + </p> + <p> + “The thumb-mark, Lestrade. You said it was final; and so it was, in a very + different sense. I knew it had not been there the day before. I pay a good + deal of attention to matters of detail, as you may have observed, and I + had examined the hall and was sure that the wall was clear. Therefore, it + had been put on during the night.” + </p> + <p> + “But how?” + </p> + <p> + “Very simply. When those packets were sealed up, Jonas Oldacre got + McFarlane to secure one of the seals by putting his thumb upon the soft + wax. It would be done so quickly and so naturally that I dare say the + young man himself has no recollection of it. Very likely it just so + happened, and Oldacre had himself no notion of the use he would put it to. + Brooding over the case in that den of his, it suddenly struck him what + absolutely damning evidence he could make against McFarlane by using that + thumb-mark. It was the simplest thing in the world for him to take a wax + impression from the seal, to moisten it in as much blood as he could get + from a pin-prick, and to put the mark upon the wall during the night, + either with his own hand or with that of his housekeeper. If you examine + among those documents which he took with him into his retreat I will lay + you a wager that you find the seal with the thumb-mark upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “Wonderful!” said Lestrade. “Wonderful! It's all as clear as crystal, as + you put it. But what is the object of this deep deception, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + It was amusing to me to see how the detective's overbearing manner had + changed suddenly to that of a child asking questions of its teacher. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't think that is very hard to explain. A very deep, malicious, + vindictive person is the gentleman who is now awaiting us downstairs. You + know that he was once refused by McFarlane's mother? You don't! I told you + that you should go to Blackheath first and Norwood afterwards. Well, this + injury, as he would consider it, has rankled in his wicked, scheming + brain, and all his life he has longed for vengeance, but never seen his + chance. During the last year or two things have gone against him—secret + speculation, I think—and he finds himself in a bad way. He + determines to swindle his creditors, and for this purpose he pays large + cheques to a certain Mr. Cornelius, who is, I imagine, himself under + another name. I have not traced these cheques yet, but I have no doubt + that they were banked under that name at some provincial town where + Oldacre from time to time led a double existence. He intended to change + his name altogether, draw this money, and vanish, starting life again + elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that's likely enough.” + </p> + <p> + “It would strike him that in disappearing he might throw all pursuit off + his track, and at the same time have an ample and crushing revenge upon + his old sweetheart, if he could give the impression that he had been + murdered by her only child. It was a masterpiece of villainy, and he + carried it out like a master. The idea of the will, which would give an + obvious motive for the crime, the secret visit unknown to his own parents, + the retention of the stick, the blood, and the animal remains and buttons + in the wood-pile, all were admirable. It was a net from which it seemed to + me a few hours ago that there was no possible escape. But he had not that + supreme gift of the artist, the knowledge of when to stop. He wished to + improve that which was already perfect—to draw the rope tighter yet + round the neck of his unfortunate victim—and so he ruined all. Let + us descend, Lestrade. There are just one or two questions that I would ask + him.” + </p> + <p> + The malignant creature was seated in his own parlour with a policeman upon + each side of him. + </p> + <p> + “It was a joke, my good sir, a practical joke, nothing more,” he whined + incessantly. “I assure you, sir, that I simply concealed myself in order + to see the effect of my disappearance, and I am sure that you would not be + so unjust as to imagine that I would have allowed any harm to befall poor + young Mr. McFarlane.” + </p> + <p> + “That's for a jury to decide,” said Lestrade. “Anyhow, we shall have you + on a charge of conspiracy, if not for attempted murder.” + </p> + <p> + “And you'll probably find that your creditors will impound the banking + account of Mr. Cornelius,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + The little man started and turned his malignant eyes upon my friend. + </p> + <p> + “I have to thank you for a good deal,” said he. “Perhaps I'll pay my debt + some day.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smiled indulgently. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy that for some few years you will find your time very fully + occupied,” said he. “By the way, what was it you put into the wood-pile + besides your old trousers? A dead dog, or rabbits, or what? You won't + tell? Dear me, how very unkind of you! Well, well, I dare say that a + couple of rabbits would account both for the blood and for the charred + ashes. If ever you write an account, Watson, you can make rabbits serve + your turn.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 26 DECEMBER, 1903 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + III.—The Adventure of the Dancing Men. + </h2> + <p> + HOLMES had been seated for some hours in silence with his long, thin back + curved over a chemical vessel in which he was brewing a particularly + malodorous product. His head was sunk upon his breast, and he looked from + my point of view like a strange, lank bird, with dull grey plumage and a + black top-knot. + </p> + <p> + “So, Watson,” said he, suddenly, “you do not propose to invest in South + African securities?” + </p> + <p> + I gave a start of astonishment. Accustomed as I was to Holmes's curious + faculties, this sudden intrusion into my most intimate thoughts was + utterly inexplicable. + </p> + <p> + “How on earth do you know that?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + He wheeled round upon his stool, with a steaming test-tube in his hand and + a gleam of amusement in his deep-set eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Watson, confess yourself utterly taken aback,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I am.” + </p> + <p> + “I ought to make you sign a paper to that effect.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because in five minutes you will say that it is all so absurdly simple.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure that I shall say nothing of the kind.” + </p> + <p> + “You see, my dear Watson”—he propped his test-tube in the rack and + began to lecture with the air of a professor addressing his class—“it + is not really difficult to construct a series of inferences, each + dependent upon its predecessor and each simple in itself. If, after doing + so, one simply knocks out all the central inferences and presents one's + audience with the starting-point and the conclusion, one may produce a + startling, though possibly a meretricious, effect. Now, it was not really + difficult, by an inspection of the groove between your left forefinger and + thumb, to feel sure that you did NOT propose to invest your small capital + in the goldfields.” + </p> + <p> + “I see no connection.” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely not; but I can quickly show you a close connection. Here are + the missing links of the very simple chain: 1. You had chalk between your + left finger and thumb when you returned from the club last night. 2. You + put chalk there when you play billiards to steady the cue. 3. You never + play billiards except with Thurston. 4. You told me four weeks ago that + Thurston had an option on some South African property which would expire + in a month, and which he desired you to share with him. 5. Your + cheque-book is locked in my drawer, and you have not asked for the key. 6. + You do not propose to invest your money in this manner.” + </p> + <p> + “How absurdly simple!” I cried. + </p> + <p> + “Quite so!” said he, a little nettled. “Every problem becomes very + childish when once it is explained to you. Here is an unexplained one. See + what you can make of that, friend Watson.” He tossed a sheet of paper upon + the table and turned once more to his chemical analysis. + </p> + <p> + I looked with amazement at the absurd hieroglyphics upon the paper. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Holmes, it is a child's drawing,” I cried. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that's your idea!” + </p> + <p> + “What else should it be?” + </p> + <p> + “That is what Mr. Hilton Cubitt, of Riding Thorpe Manor, Norfolk, is very + anxious to know. This little conundrum came by the first post, and he was + to follow by the next train. There's a ring at the bell, Watson. I should + not be very much surprised if this were he.” + </p> + <p> + A heavy step was heard upon the stairs, and an instant later there entered + a tall, ruddy, clean-shaven gentleman, whose clear eyes and florid cheeks + told of a life led far from the fogs of Baker Street. He seemed to bring a + whiff of his strong, fresh, bracing, east-coast air with him as he + entered. Having shaken hands with each of us, he was about to sit down + when his eye rested upon the paper with the curious markings, which I had + just examined and left upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes, what do you make of these?” he cried. “They told me + that you were fond of queer mysteries, and I don't think you can find a + queerer one than that. I sent the paper on ahead so that you might have + time to study it before I came.” + </p> + <p> + “It is certainly rather a curious production,” said Holmes. “At first + sight it would appear to be some childish prank. It consists of a number + of absurd little figures dancing across the paper upon which they are + drawn. Why should you attribute any importance to so grotesque an object?” + </p> + <p> + “I never should, Mr. Holmes. But my wife does. It is frightening her to + death. She says nothing, but I can see terror in her eyes. That's why I + want to sift the matter to the bottom.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes held up the paper so that the sunlight shone full upon it. It was a + page torn from a note-book. The markings were done in pencil, and ran in + this way:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + Holmes examined it for some time, and then, folding it carefully up, he + placed it in his pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + “This promises to be a most interesting and unusual case,” said he. “You + gave me a few particulars in your letter, Mr. Hilton Cubitt, but I should + be very much obliged if you would kindly go over it all again for the + benefit of my friend, Dr. Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not much of a story-teller,” said our visitor, nervously clasping and + unclasping his great, strong hands. “You'll just ask me anything that I + don't make clear. I'll begin at the time of my marriage last year; but I + want to say first of all that, though I'm not a rich man, my people have + been at Ridling Thorpe for a matter of five centuries, and there is no + better known family in the County of Norfolk. Last year I came up to + London for the Jubilee, and I stopped at a boarding-house in Russell + Square, because Parker, the vicar of our parish, was staying in it. There + was an American young lady there—Patrick was the name—Elsie + Patrick. In some way we became friends, until before my month was up I was + as much in love as a man could be. We were quietly married at a registry + office, and we returned to Norfolk a wedded couple. You'll think it very + mad, Mr. Holmes, that a man of a good old family should marry a wife in + this fashion, knowing nothing of her past or of her people; but if you saw + her and knew her it would help you to understand. + </p> + <p> + “She was very straight about it, was Elsie. I can't say that she did not + give me every chance of getting out of it if I wished to do so. 'I have + had some very disagreeable associations in my life,' said she; 'I wish to + forget all about them. I would rather never allude to the past, for it is + very painful to me. If you take me, Hilton, you will take a woman who has + nothing that she need be personally ashamed of; but you will have to be + content with my word for it, and to allow me to be silent as to all that + passed up to the time when I became yours. If these conditions are too + hard, then go back to Norfolk and leave me to the lonely life in which you + found me.' It was only the day before our wedding that she said those very + words to me. I told her that I was content to take her on her own terms, + and I have been as good as my word. + </p> + <p> + “Well, we have been married now for a year, and very happy we have been. + But about a month ago, at the end of June, I saw for the first time signs + of trouble. One day my wife received a letter from America. I saw the + American stamp. She turned deadly white, read the letter, and threw it + into the fire. She made no allusion to it afterwards, and I made none, for + a promise is a promise; but she has never known an easy hour from that + moment. There is always a look of fear upon her face—a look as if + she were waiting and expecting. She would do better to trust me. She would + find that I was her best friend. But until she speaks I can say nothing. + Mind you, she is a truthful woman, Mr. Holmes, and whatever trouble there + may have been in her past life it has been no fault of hers. I am only a + simple Norfolk squire, but there is not a man in England who ranks his + family honour more highly than I do. She knows it well, and she knew it + well before she married me. She would never bring any stain upon it—of + that I am sure. + </p> + <p> + “Well, now I come to the queer part of my story. About a week ago—it + was the Tuesday of last week—I found on one of the window-sills a + number of absurd little dancing figures, like these upon the paper. They + were scrawled with chalk. I thought that it was the stable-boy who had + drawn them, but the lad swore he knew nothing about it. Anyhow, they had + come there during the night. I had them washed out, and I only mentioned + the matter to my wife afterwards. To my surprise she took it very + seriously, and begged me if any more came to let her see them. None did + come for a week, and then yesterday morning I found this paper lying on + the sun-dial in the garden. I showed it to Elsie, and down she dropped in + a dead faint. Since then she has looked like a woman in a dream, half + dazed, and with terror always lurking in her eyes. It was then that I + wrote and sent the paper to you, Mr. Holmes. It was not a thing that I + could take to the police, for they would have laughed at me, but you will + tell me what to do. I am not a rich man; but if there is any danger + threatening my little woman I would spend my last copper to shield her.” + </p> + <p> + He was a fine creature, this man of the old English soil, simple, + straight, and gentle, with his great, earnest blue eyes and broad, comely + face. His love for his wife and his trust in her shone in his features. + Holmes had listened to his story with the utmost attention, and now he sat + for some time in silent thought. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you think, Mr. Cubitt,” said he, at last, “that your best plan + would be to make a direct appeal to your wife, and to ask her to share her + secret with you?” + </p> + <p> + Hilton Cubitt shook his massive head. + </p> + <p> + “A promise is a promise, Mr. Holmes. If Elsie wished to tell me she would. + If not, it is not for me to force her confidence. But I am justified in + taking my own line—and I will.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will help you with all my heart. In the first place, have you + heard of any strangers being seen in your neighbourhood?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “I presume that it is a very quiet place. Any fresh face would cause + comment?” + </p> + <p> + “In the immediate neighbourhood, yes. But we have several small + watering-places not very far away. And the farmers take in lodgers.” + </p> + <p> + “These hieroglyphics have evidently a meaning. If it is a purely arbitrary + one it may be impossible for us to solve it. If, on the other hand, it is + systematic, I have no doubt that we shall get to the bottom of it. But + this particular sample is so short that I can do nothing, and the facts + which you have brought me are so indefinite that we have no basis for an + investigation. I would suggest that you return to Norfolk, that you keep a + keen look-out, and that you take an exact copy of any fresh dancing men + which may appear. It is a thousand pities that we have not a reproduction + of those which were done in chalk upon the window-sill. Make a discreet + inquiry also as to any strangers in the neighbourhood. When you have + collected some fresh evidence come to me again. That is the best advice + which I can give you, Mr. Hilton Cubitt. If there are any pressing fresh + developments I shall be always ready to run down and see you in your + Norfolk home.” + </p> + <p> + The interview left Sherlock Holmes very thoughtful, and several times in + the next few days I saw him take his slip of paper from his note-book and + look long and earnestly at the curious figures inscribed upon it. He made + no allusion to the affair, however, until one afternoon a fortnight or so + later. I was going out when he called me back. + </p> + <p> + “You had better stay here, Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I had a wire from Hilton Cubitt this morning—you remember + Hilton Cubitt, of the dancing men? He was to reach Liverpool Street at + one-twenty. He may be here at any moment. I gather from his wire that + there have been some new incidents of importance.” + </p> + <p> + We had not long to wait, for our Norfolk squire came straight from the + station as fast as a hansom could bring him. He was looking worried and + depressed, with tired eyes and a lined forehead. + </p> + <p> + “It's getting on my nerves, this business, Mr. Holmes,” said he, as he + sank, like a wearied man, into an arm-chair. “It's bad enough to feel that + you are surrounded by unseen, unknown folk, who have some kind of design + upon you; but when, in addition to that, you know that it is just killing + your wife by inches, then it becomes as much as flesh and blood can + endure. She's wearing away under it—just wearing away before my + eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “Has she said anything yet?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Mr. Holmes, she has not. And yet there have been times when the poor + girl has wanted to speak, and yet could not quite bring herself to take + the plunge. I have tried to help her; but I dare say I did it clumsily, + and scared her off from it. She has spoken about my old family, and our + reputation in the county, and our pride in our unsullied honour, and I + always felt it was leading to the point; but somehow it turned off before + we got there.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have found out something for yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “A good deal, Mr. Holmes. I have several fresh dancing men pictures for + you to examine, and, what is more important, I have seen the fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “What, the man who draws them?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I saw him at his work. But I will tell you everything in order. When + I got back after my visit to you, the very first thing I saw next morning + was a fresh crop of dancing men. They had been drawn in chalk upon the + black wooden door of the tool-house, which stands beside the lawn in full + view of the front windows. I took an exact copy, and here it is.” He + unfolded a paper and laid it upon the table. Here is a copy of the + hieroglyphics:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + “Excellent!” said Holmes. “Excellent! Pray continue.” + </p> + <p> + “When I had taken the copy I rubbed out the marks; but two mornings later + a fresh inscription had appeared. I have a copy of it here”:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + Holmes rubbed his hands and chuckled with delight. + </p> + <p> + “Our material is rapidly accumulating,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Three days later a message was left scrawled upon paper, and placed under + a pebble upon the sun-dial. Here it is. The characters are, as you see, + exactly the same as the last one. After that I determined to lie in wait; + so I got out my revolver and I sat up in my study, which overlooks the + lawn and garden. About two in the morning I was seated by the window, all + being dark save for the moonlight outside, when I heard steps behind me, + and there was my wife in her dressing-gown. She implored me to come to + bed. I told her frankly that I wished to see who it was who played such + absurd tricks upon us. She answered that it was some senseless practical + joke, and that I should not take any notice of it. + </p> + <p> + “'If it really annoys you, Hilton, we might go and travel, you and I, and + so avoid this nuisance.' + </p> + <p> + “'What, be driven out of our own house by a practical joker?' said I. + 'Why, we should have the whole county laughing at us.' + </p> + <p> + “'Well, come to bed,' said she, 'and we can discuss it in the morning.' + </p> + <p> + “Suddenly, as she spoke, I saw her white face grow whiter yet in the + moonlight, and her hand tightened upon my shoulder. Something was moving + in the shadow of the tool-house. I saw a dark, creeping figure which + crawled round the corner and squatted in front of the door. Seizing my + pistol I was rushing out, when my wife threw her arms round me and held me + with convulsive strength. I tried to throw her off, but she clung to me + most desperately. At last I got clear, but by the time I had opened the + door and reached the house the creature was gone. He had left a trace of + his presence, however, for there on the door was the very same arrangement + of dancing men which had already twice appeared, and which I have copied + on that paper. There was no other sign of the fellow anywhere, though I + ran all over the grounds. And yet the amazing thing is that he must have + been there all the time, for when I examined the door again in the morning + he had scrawled some more of his pictures under the line which I had + already seen.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you that fresh drawing?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; it is very short, but I made a copy of it, and here it is.” + </p> + <p> + Again he produced a paper. The new dance was in this form:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + “Tell me,” said Holmes—and I could see by his eyes that he was much + excited—“was this a mere addition to the first, or did it appear to + be entirely separate?” + </p> + <p> + “It was on a different panel of the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent! This is far the most important of all for our purpose. It + fills me with hopes. Now, Mr. Hilton Cubitt, please continue your most + interesting statement.” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing more to say, Mr. Holmes, except that I was angry with my + wife that night for having held me back when I might have caught the + skulking rascal. She said that she feared that I might come to harm. For + an instant it had crossed my mind that perhaps what she really feared was + that HE might come to harm, for I could not doubt that she knew who this + man was and what he meant by these strange signals. But there is a tone in + my wife's voice, Mr. Holmes, and a look in her eyes which forbid doubt, + and I am sure that it was indeed my own safety that was in her mind. + There's the whole case, and now I want your advice as to what I ought to + do. My own inclination is to put half-a-dozen of my farm lads in the + shrubbery, and when this fellow comes again to give him such a hiding that + he will leave us in peace for the future.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear it is too deep a case for such simple remedies,” said Holmes. “How + long can you stay in London?” + </p> + <p> + “I must go back to-day. I would not leave my wife alone all night for + anything. She is very nervous and begged me to come back.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say you are right. But if you could have stopped I might possibly + have been able to return with you in a day or two. Meanwhile you will + leave me these papers, and I think that it is very likely that I shall be + able to pay you a visit shortly and to throw some light upon your case.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes preserved his calm professional manner until our visitor + had left us, although it was easy for me, who knew him so well, to see + that he was profoundly excited. The moment that Hilton Cubitt's broad back + had disappeared through the door my comrade rushed to the table, laid out + all the slips of paper containing dancing men in front of him, and threw + himself into an intricate and elaborate calculation. For two hours I + watched him as he covered sheet after sheet of paper with figures and + letters, so completely absorbed in his task that he had evidently + forgotten my presence. Sometimes he was making progress and whistled and + sang at his work; sometimes he was puzzled, and would sit for long spells + with a furrowed brow and a vacant eye. Finally he sprang from his chair + with a cry of satisfaction, and walked up and down the room rubbing his + hands together. Then he wrote a long telegram upon a cable form. “If my + answer to this is as I hope, you will have a very pretty case to add to + your collection, Watson,” said he. “I expect that we shall be able to go + down to Norfolk to-morrow, and to take our friend some very definite news + as to the secret of his annoyance.” + </p> + <p> + I confess that I was filled with curiosity, but I was aware that Holmes + liked to make his disclosures at his own time and in his own way; so I + waited until it should suit him to take me into his confidence. + </p> + <p> + But there was a delay in that answering telegram, and two days of + impatience followed, during which Holmes pricked up his ears at every ring + of the bell. On the evening of the second there came a letter from Hilton + Cubitt. All was quiet with him, save that a long inscription had appeared + that morning upon the pedestal of the sun-dial. He inclosed a copy of it, + which is here reproduced:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + Holmes bent over this grotesque frieze for some minutes, and then suddenly + sprang to his feet with an exclamation of surprise and dismay. His face + was haggard with anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “We have let this affair go far enough,” said he. “Is there a train to + North Walsham to-night?” + </p> + <p> + I turned up the time-table. The last had just gone. + </p> + <p> + “Then we shall breakfast early and take the very first in the morning,” + said Holmes. “Our presence is most urgently needed. Ah! here is our + expected cablegram. One moment, Mrs. Hudson; there may be an answer. No, + that is quite as I expected. This message makes it even more essential + that we should not lose an hour in letting Hilton Cubitt know how matters + stand, for it is a singular and a dangerous web in which our simple + Norfolk squire is entangled.” + </p> + <p> + So, indeed, it proved, and as I come to the dark conclusion of a story + which had seemed to me to be only childish and bizarre I experience once + again the dismay and horror with which I was filled. Would that I had some + brighter ending to communicate to my readers, but these are the chronicles + of fact, and I must follow to their dark crisis the strange chain of + events which for some days made Ridling Thorpe Manor a household word + through the length and breadth of England. + </p> + <p> + We had hardly alighted at North Walsham, and mentioned the name of our + destination, when the station-master hurried towards us. “I suppose that + you are the detectives from London?” said he. + </p> + <p> + A look of annoyance passed over Holmes's face. + </p> + <p> + “What makes you think such a thing?” + </p> + <p> + “Because Inspector Martin from Norwich has just passed through. But maybe + you are the surgeons. She's not dead—or wasn't by last accounts. You + may be in time to save her yet—though it be for the gallows.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes's brow was dark with anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “We are going to Ridling Thorpe Manor,” said he, “but we have heard + nothing of what has passed there.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a terrible business,” said the station-master. “They are shot, both + Mr. Hilton Cubitt and his wife. She shot him and then herself—so the + servants say. He's dead and her life is despaired of. Dear, dear, one of + the oldest families in the County of Norfolk, and one of the most + honoured.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word Holmes hurried to a carriage, and during the long seven + miles' drive he never opened his mouth. Seldom have I seen him so utterly + despondent. He had been uneasy during all our journey from town, and I had + observed that he had turned over the morning papers with anxious + attention; but now this sudden realization of his worst fears left him in + a blank melancholy. He leaned back in his seat, lost in gloomy + speculation. Yet there was much around to interest us, for we were passing + through as singular a country-side as any in England, where a few + scattered cottages represented the population of to-day, while on every + hand enormous square-towered churches bristled up from the flat, green + landscape and told of the glory and prosperity of old East Anglia. At last + the violet rim of the German Ocean appeared over the green edge of the + Norfolk coast, and the driver pointed with his whip to two old brick and + timber gables which projected from a grove of trees. “That's Ridling + Thorpe Manor,” said he. + </p> + <p> + As we drove up to the porticoed front door I observed in front of it, + beside the tennis lawn, the black tool-house and the pedestalled sun-dial + with which we had such strange associations. A dapper little man, with a + quick, alert manner and a waxed moustache, had just descended from a high + dog-cart. He introduced himself as Inspector Martin, of the Norfolk + Constabulary, and he was considerably astonished when he heard the name of + my companion. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Holmes, the crime was only committed at three this morning. How + could you hear of it in London and get to the spot as soon as I?” + </p> + <p> + “I anticipated it. I came in the hope of preventing it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must have important evidence of which we are ignorant, for they + were said to be a most united couple.” + </p> + <p> + “I have only the evidence of the dancing men,” said Holmes. “I will + explain the matter to you later. Meanwhile, since it is too late to + prevent this tragedy, I am very anxious that I should use the knowledge + which I possess in order to ensure that justice be done. Will you + associate me in your investigation, or will you prefer that I should act + independently?” + </p> + <p> + “I should be proud to feel that we were acting together, Mr. Holmes,” said + the inspector, earnestly. + </p> + <p> + “In that case I should be glad to hear the evidence and to examine the + premises without an instant of unnecessary delay.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Martin had the good sense to allow my friend to do things in his + own fashion, and contented himself with carefully noting the results. The + local surgeon, an old, white-haired man, had just come down from Mrs. + Hilton Cubitt's room, and he reported that her injuries were serious, but + not necessarily fatal. The bullet had passed through the front of her + brain, and it would probably be some time before she could regain + consciousness. On the question of whether she had been shot or had shot + herself he would not venture to express any decided opinion. Certainly the + bullet had been discharged at very close quarters. There was only the one + pistol found in the room, two barrels of which had been emptied. Mr. + Hilton Cubitt had been shot through the heart. It was equally conceivable + that he had shot her and then himself, or that she had been the criminal, + for the revolver lay upon the floor midway between them. + </p> + <p> + “Has he been moved?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “We have moved nothing except the lady. We could not leave her lying + wounded upon the floor.” + </p> + <p> + “How long have you been here, doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “Since four o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Anyone else?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the constable here.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have touched nothing?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “You have acted with great discretion. Who sent for you?” + </p> + <p> + “The housemaid, Saunders.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it she who gave the alarm?” + </p> + <p> + “She and Mrs. King, the cook.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are they now?” + </p> + <p> + “In the kitchen, I believe.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I think we had better hear their story at once.” + </p> + <p> + The old hall, oak-panelled and high-windowed, had been turned into a court + of investigation. Holmes sat in a great, old-fashioned chair, his + inexorable eyes gleaming out of his haggard face. I could read in them a + set purpose to devote his life to this quest until the client whom he had + failed to save should at last be avenged. The trim Inspector Martin, the + old, grey-headed country doctor, myself, and a stolid village policeman + made up the rest of that strange company. + </p> + <p> + The two women told their story clearly enough. They had been aroused from + their sleep by the sound of an explosion, which had been followed a minute + later by a second one. They slept in adjoining rooms, and Mrs. King had + rushed in to Saunders. Together they had descended the stairs. The door of + the study was open and a candle was burning upon the table. Their master + lay upon his face in the centre of the room. He was quite dead. Near the + window his wife was crouching, her head leaning against the wall. She was + horribly wounded, and the side of her face was red with blood. She + breathed heavily, but was incapable of saying anything. The passage, as + well as the room, was full of smoke and the smell of powder. The window + was certainly shut and fastened upon the inside. Both women were positive + upon the point. They had at once sent for the doctor and for the + constable. Then, with the aid of the groom and the stable-boy, they had + conveyed their injured mistress to her room. Both she and her husband had + occupied the bed. She was clad in her dress—he in his dressing-gown, + over his night clothes. Nothing had been moved in the study. So far as + they knew there had never been any quarrel between husband and wife. They + had always looked upon them as a very united couple. + </p> + <p> + These were the main points of the servants' evidence. In answer to + Inspector Martin they were clear that every door was fastened upon the + inside, and that no one could have escaped from the house. In answer to + Holmes they both remembered that they were conscious of the smell of + powder from the moment that they ran out of their rooms upon the top + floor. “I commend that fact very carefully to your attention,” said Holmes + to his professional colleague. “And now I think that we are in a position + to undertake a thorough examination of the room.” + </p> + <p> + The study proved to be a small chamber, lined on three sides with books, + and with a writing-table facing an ordinary window, which looked out upon + the garden. Our first attention was given to the body of the unfortunate + squire, whose huge frame lay stretched across the room. His disordered + dress showed that he had been hastily aroused from sleep. The bullet had + been fired at him from the front, and had remained in his body after + penetrating the heart. His death had certainly been instantaneous and + painless. There was no powder-marking either upon his dressing-gown or on + his hands. According to the country surgeon the lady had stains upon her + face, but none upon her hand. + </p> + <p> + “The absence of the latter means nothing, though its presence may mean + everything,” said Holmes. “Unless the powder from a badly-fitting + cartridge happens to spurt backwards, one may fire many shots without + leaving a sign. I would suggest that Mr. Cubitt's body may now be removed. + I suppose, doctor, you have not recovered the bullet which wounded the + lady?” + </p> + <p> + “A serious operation will be necessary before that can be done. But there + are still four cartridges in the revolver. Two have been fired and two + wounds inflicted, so that each bullet can be accounted for.” + </p> + <p> + “So it would seem,” said Holmes. “Perhaps you can account also for the + bullet which has so obviously struck the edge of the window?” + </p> + <p> + He had turned suddenly, and his long, thin finger was pointing to a hole + which had been drilled right through the lower window-sash about an inch + above the bottom. + </p> + <p> + “By George!” cried the inspector. “How ever did you see that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I looked for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Wonderful!” said the country doctor. “You are certainly right, sir. Then + a third shot has been fired, and therefore a third person must have been + present. But who could that have been and how could he have got away?” + </p> + <p> + “That is the problem which we are now about to solve,” said Sherlock + Holmes. “You remember, Inspector Martin, when the servants said that on + leaving their room they were at once conscious of a smell of powder I + remarked that the point was an extremely important one?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; but I confess I did not quite follow you.” + </p> + <p> + “It suggested that at the time of the firing the window as well as the + door of the room had been open. Otherwise the fumes of powder could not + have been blown so rapidly through the house. A draught in the room was + necessary for that. Both door and window were only open for a very short + time, however.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you prove that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because the candle has not guttered.” + </p> + <p> + “Capital!” cried the inspector. “Capital!” + </p> + <p> + “Feeling sure that the window had been open at the time of the tragedy I + conceived that there might have been a third person in the affair, who + stood outside this opening and fired through it. Any shot directed at this + person might hit the sash. I looked, and there, sure enough, was the + bullet mark!” + </p> + <p> + “But how came the window to be shut and fastened?” + </p> + <p> + “The woman's first instinct would be to shut and fasten the window. But, + halloa! what is this?” + </p> + <p> + It was a lady's hand-bag which stood upon the study table—a trim + little hand-bag of crocodile-skin and silver. Holmes opened it and turned + the contents out. There were twenty fifty-pound notes of the Bank of + England, held together by an india-rubber band—nothing else. + </p> + <p> + “This must be preserved, for it will figure in the trial,” said Holmes, as + he handed the bag with its contents to the inspector. “It is now necessary + that we should try to throw some light upon this third bullet, which has + clearly, from the splintering of the wood, been fired from inside the + room. I should like to see Mrs. King, the cook, again. You said, Mrs. + King, that you were awakened by a LOUD explosion. When you said that, did + you mean that it seemed to you to be louder than the second one?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, it wakened me from my sleep, and so it is hard to judge. But + it did seem very loud.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't think that it might have been two shots fired almost at the + same instant?” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure I couldn't say, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe that it was undoubtedly so. I rather think, Inspector Martin, + that we have now exhausted all that this room can teach us. If you will + kindly step round with me, we shall see what fresh evidence the garden has + to offer.” + </p> + <p> + A flower-bed extended up to the study window, and we all broke into an + exclamation as we approached it. The flowers were trampled down, and the + soft soil was imprinted all over with footmarks. Large, masculine feet + they were, with peculiarly long, sharp toes. Holmes hunted about among the + grass and leaves like a retriever after a wounded bird. Then, with a cry + of satisfaction, he bent forward and picked up a little brazen cylinder. + </p> + <p> + “I thought so,” said he; “the revolver had an ejector, and here is the + third cartridge. I really think, Inspector Martin, that our case is almost + complete.” + </p> + <p> + The country inspector's face had shown his intense amazement at the rapid + and masterful progress of Holmes's investigation. At first he had shown + some disposition to assert his own position; but now he was overcome with + admiration and ready to follow without question wherever Holmes led. + </p> + <p> + “Whom do you suspect?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I'll go into that later. There are several points in this problem which I + have not been able to explain to you yet. Now that I have got so far I had + best proceed on my own lines, and then clear the whole matter up once and + for all.” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you wish, Mr. Holmes, so long as we get our man.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no desire to make mysteries, but it is impossible at the moment of + action to enter into long and complex explanations. I have the threads of + this affair all in my hand. Even if this lady should never recover + consciousness we can still reconstruct the events of last night and ensure + that justice be done. First of all I wish to know whether there is any inn + in this neighbourhood known as 'Elrige's'?” + </p> + <p> + The servants were cross-questioned, but none of them had heard of such a + place. The stable-boy threw a light upon the matter by remembering that a + farmer of that name lived some miles off in the direction of East Ruston. + </p> + <p> + “Is it a lonely farm?” + </p> + <p> + “Very lonely, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps they have not heard yet of all that happened here during the + night?” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe not, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes thought for a little and then a curious smile played over his face. + </p> + <p> + “Saddle a horse, my lad,” said he. “I shall wish you to take a note to + Elrige's Farm.” + </p> + <p> + He took from his pocket the various slips of the dancing men. With these + in front of him he worked for some time at the study-table. Finally he + handed a note to the boy, with directions to put it into the hands of the + person to whom it was addressed, and especially to answer no questions of + any sort which might be put to him. I saw the outside of the note, + addressed in straggling, irregular characters, very unlike Holmes's usual + precise hand. It was consigned to Mr. Abe Slaney, Elrige's Farm, East + Ruston, Norfolk. + </p> + <p> + “I think, inspector,” Holmes remarked, “that you would do well to + telegraph for an escort, as, if my calculations prove to be correct, you + may have a particularly dangerous prisoner to convey to the county gaol. + The boy who takes this note could no doubt forward your telegram. If there + is an afternoon train to town, Watson, I think we should do well to take + it, as I have a chemical analysis of some interest to finish, and this + investigation draws rapidly to a close.” + </p> + <p> + When the youth had been dispatched with the note, Sherlock Holmes gave his + instructions to the servants. If any visitor were to call asking for Mrs. + Hilton Cubitt no information should be given as to her condition, but he + was to be shown at once into the drawing-room. He impressed these points + upon them with the utmost earnestness. Finally he led the way into the + drawing-room with the remark that the business was now out of our hands, + and that we must while away the time as best we might until we could see + what was in store for us. The doctor had departed to his patients, and + only the inspector and myself remained. + </p> + <p> + “I think that I can help you to pass an hour in an interesting and + profitable manner,” said Holmes, drawing his chair up to the table and + spreading out in front of him the various papers upon which were recorded + the antics of the dancing men. “As to you, friend Watson, I owe you every + atonement for having allowed your natural curiosity to remain so long + unsatisfied. To you, inspector, the whole incident may appeal as a + remarkable professional study. I must tell you first of all the + interesting circumstances connected with the previous consultations which + Mr. Hilton Cubitt has had with me in Baker Street.” He then shortly + recapitulated the facts which have already been recorded. “I have here in + front of me these singular productions, at which one might smile had they + not proved themselves to be the fore-runners of so terrible a tragedy. I + am fairly familiar with all forms of secret writings, and am myself the + author of a trifling monograph upon the subject, in which I analyze one + hundred and sixty separate ciphers; but I confess that this is entirely + new to me. The object of those who invented the system has apparently been + to conceal that these characters convey a message, and to give the idea + that they are the mere random sketches of children. + </p> + <p> + “Having once recognised, however, that the symbols stood for letters, and + having applied the rules which guide us in all forms of secret writings, + the solution was easy enough. The first message submitted to me was so + short that it was impossible for me to do more than to say with some + confidence that the symbol XXX stood for E. As you are aware, E is the + most common letter in the English alphabet, and it predominates to so + marked an extent that even in a short sentence one would expect to find it + most often. Out of fifteen symbols in the first message four were the + same, so it was reasonable to set this down as E. It is true that in some + cases the figure was bearing a flag and in some cases not, but it was + probable from the way in which the flags were distributed that they were + used to break the sentence up into words. I accepted this as a hypothesis, + and noted that E was represented by XXX. + </p> + <p> + “But now came the real difficulty of the inquiry. The order of the English + letters after E is by no means well marked, and any preponderance which + may be shown in an average of a printed sheet may be reversed in a single + short sentence. Speaking roughly, T, A, O, I, N, S, H, R, D, and L are the + numerical order in which letters occur; but T, A, O, and I are very nearly + abreast of each other, and it would be an endless task to try each + combination until a meaning was arrived at. I, therefore, waited for fresh + material. In my second interview with Mr. Hilton Cubitt he was able to + give me two other short sentences and one message, which appeared—since + there was no flag—to be a single word. Here are the symbols. Now, in + the single word I have already got the two E's coming second and fourth in + a word of five letters. It might be 'sever,' or 'lever,' or 'never.' There + can be no question that the latter as a reply to an appeal is far the most + probable, and the circumstances pointed to its being a reply written by + the lady. Accepting it as correct, we are now able to say that the symbols + XXX stand respectively for N, V, and R. + </p> + <p> + “Even now I was in considerable difficulty, but a happy thought put me in + possession of several other letters. It occurred to me that if these + appeals came, as I expected, from someone who had been intimate with the + lady in her early life, a combination which contained two E's with three + letters between might very well stand for the name 'ELSIE.' On examination + I found that such a combination formed the termination of the message + which was three times repeated. It was certainly some appeal to 'Elsie.' + In this way I had got my L, S, and I. But what appeal could it be? There + were only four letters in the word which preceded 'Elsie,' and it ended in + E. Surely the word must be 'COME.' I tried all other four letters ending + in E, but could find none to fit the case. So now I was in possession of + C, O, and M, and I was in a position to attack the first message once + more, dividing it into words and putting dots for each symbol which was + still unknown. So treated it worked out in this fashion:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + .M .ERE ..E SL.NE. +</pre> + <p> + “Now the first letter CAN only be A, which is a most useful discovery, + since it occurs no fewer than three times in this short sentence, and the + H is also apparent in the second word. Now it becomes:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + AM HERE A.E SLANE. +</pre> + <p> + Or, filling in the obvious vacancies in the name:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + AM HERE ABE SLANEY. +</pre> + <p> + I had so many letters now that I could proceed with considerable + confidence to the second message, which worked out in this fashion:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A. ELRI.ES. +</pre> + <p> + Here I could only make sense by putting T and G for the missing letters, + and supposing that the name was that of some house or inn at which the + writer was staying.” + </p> + <p> + Inspector Martin and I had listened with the utmost interest to the full + and clear account of how my friend had produced results which had led to + so complete a command over our difficulties. + </p> + <p> + “What did you do then, sir?” asked the inspector. + </p> + <p> + “I had every reason to suppose that this Abe Slaney was an American, since + Abe is an American contraction, and since a letter from America had been + the starting-point of all the trouble. I had also every cause to think + that there was some criminal secret in the matter. The lady's allusions to + her past and her refusal to take her husband into her confidence both + pointed in that direction. I therefore cabled to my friend, Wilson + Hargreave, of the New York Police Bureau, who has more than once made use + of my knowledge of London crime. I asked him whether the name of Abe + Slaney was known to him. Here is his reply: 'The most dangerous crook in + Chicago.' On the very evening upon which I had his answer Hilton Cubitt + sent me the last message from Slaney. Working with known letters it took + this form:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ELSIE .RE.ARE TO MEET THY GO. +</pre> + <p> + The addition of a P and a D completed a message which showed me that the + rascal was proceeding from persuasion to threats, and my knowledge of the + crooks of Chicago prepared me to find that he might very rapidly put his + words into action. I at once came to Norfolk with my friend and colleague, + Dr. Watson, but, unhappily, only in time to find that the worst had + already occurred.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a privilege to be associated with you in the handling of a case,” + said the inspector, warmly. “You will excuse me, however, if I speak + frankly to you. You are only answerable to yourself, but I have to answer + to my superiors. If this Abe Slaney, living at Elrige's, is indeed the + murderer, and if he has made his escape while I am seated here, I should + certainly get into serious trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “You need not be uneasy. He will not try to escape.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” + </p> + <p> + “To fly would be a confession of guilt.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let us go to arrest him.” + </p> + <p> + “I expect him here every instant.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should he come?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I have written and asked him.” + </p> + <p> + “But this is incredible, Mr. Holmes! Why should he come because you have + asked him? Would not such a request rather rouse his suspicions and cause + him to fly?” + </p> + <p> + “I think I have known how to frame the letter,” said Sherlock Holmes. “In + fact, if I am not very much mistaken, here is the gentleman himself coming + up the drive.” + </p> + <p> + A man was striding up the path which led to the door. He was a tall, + handsome, swarthy fellow, clad in a suit of grey flannel, with a Panama + hat, a bristling black beard, and a great, aggressive hooked nose, and + flourishing a cane as he walked. He swaggered up the path as if the place + belonged to him, and we heard his loud, confident peal at the bell. + </p> + <p> + “I think, gentlemen,” said Holmes, quietly, “that we had best take up our + position behind the door. Every precaution is necessary when dealing with + such a fellow. You will need your handcuffs, inspector. You can leave the + talking to me.” + </p> + <p> + We waited in silence for a minute—one of those minutes which one can + never forget. Then the door opened and the man stepped in. In an instant + Holmes clapped a pistol to his head and Martin slipped the handcuffs over + his wrists. It was all done so swiftly and deftly that the fellow was + helpless before he knew that he was attacked. He glared from one to the + other of us with a pair of blazing black eyes. Then he burst into a bitter + laugh. + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen, you have the drop on me this time. I seem to have + knocked up against something hard. But I came here in answer to a letter + from Mrs. Hilton Cubitt. Don't tell me that she is in this? Don't tell me + that she helped to set a trap for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Hilton Cubitt was seriously injured and is at death's door.” + </p> + <p> + The man gave a hoarse cry of grief which rang through the house. + </p> + <p> + “You're crazy!” he cried, fiercely. “It was he that was hurt, not she. Who + would have hurt little Elsie? I may have threatened her, God forgive me, + but I would not have touched a hair of her pretty head. Take it back—you! + Say that she is not hurt!” + </p> + <p> + “She was found badly wounded by the side of her dead husband.” + </p> + <p> + He sank with a deep groan on to the settee and buried his face in his + manacled hands. For five minutes he was silent. Then he raised his face + once more, and spoke with the cold composure of despair. + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to hide from you, gentlemen,” said he. “If I shot the man + he had his shot at me, and there's no murder in that. But if you think I + could have hurt that woman, then you don't know either me or her. I tell + you there was never a man in this world loved a woman more than I loved + her. I had a right to her. She was pledged to me years ago. Who was this + Englishman that he should come between us? I tell you that I had the first + right to her, and that I was only claiming my own.” + </p> + <p> + “She broke away from your influence when she found the man that you are,” + said Holmes, sternly. “She fled from America to avoid you, and she married + an honourable gentleman in England. You dogged her and followed her and + made her life a misery to her in order to induce her to abandon the + husband whom she loved and respected in order to fly with you, whom she + feared and hated. You have ended by bringing about the death of a noble + man and driving his wife to suicide. That is your record in this business, + Mr. Abe Slaney, and you will answer for it to the law.” + </p> + <p> + “If Elsie dies I care nothing what becomes of me,” said the American. He + opened one of his hands and looked at a note crumpled up in his palm. “See + here, mister,” he cried, with a gleam of suspicion in his eyes, “you're + not trying to scare me over this, are you? If the lady is hurt as bad as + you say, who was it that wrote this note?” He tossed it forwards on to the + table. + </p> + <p> + “I wrote it to bring you here.” + </p> + <p> + “You wrote it? There was no one on earth outside the Joint who knew the + secret of the dancing men. How came you to write it?” + </p> + <p> + “What one man can invent another can discover,” said Holmes. There is a + cab coming to convey you to Norwich, Mr. Slaney. But, meanwhile, you have + time to make some small reparation for the injury you have wrought. Are + you aware that Mrs. Hilton Cubitt has herself lain under grave suspicion + of the murder of her husband, and that it was only my presence here and + the knowledge which I happened to possess which has saved her from the + accusation? The least that you owe her is to make it clear to the whole + world that she was in no way, directly or indirectly, responsible for his + tragic end.” + </p> + <p> + “I ask nothing better,” said the American. “I guess the very best case I + can make for myself is the absolute naked truth.” + </p> + <p> + “It is my duty to warn you that it will be used against you,” cried the + inspector, with the magnificent fair-play of the British criminal law. + </p> + <p> + Slaney shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “I'll chance that,” said he. “First of all, I want you gentlemen to + understand that I have known this lady since she was a child. There were + seven of us in a gang in Chicago, and Elsie's father was the boss of the + Joint. He was a clever man, was old Patrick. It was he who invented that + writing, which would pass as a child's scrawl unless you just happened to + have the key to it. Well, Elsie learned some of our ways; but she couldn't + stand the business, and she had a bit of honest money of her own, so she + gave us all the slip and got away to London. She had been engaged to me, + and she would have married me, I believe, if I had taken over another + profession; but she would have nothing to do with anything on the cross. + It was only after her marriage to this Englishman that I was able to find + out where she was. I wrote to her, but got no answer. After that I came + over, and, as letters were no use, I put my messages where she could read + them. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have been here a month now. I lived in that farm, where I had a + room down below, and could get in and out every night, and no one the + wiser. I tried all I could to coax Elsie away. I knew that she read the + messages, for once she wrote an answer under one of them. Then my temper + got the better of me, and I began to threaten her. She sent me a letter + then, imploring me to go away and saying that it would break her heart if + any scandal should come upon her husband. She said that she would come + down when her husband was asleep at three in the morning, and speak with + me through the end window, if I would go away afterwards and leave her in + peace. She came down and brought money with her, trying to bribe me to go. + This made me mad, and I caught her arm and tried to pull her through the + window. At that moment in rushed the husband with his revolver in his + hand. Elsie had sunk down upon the floor, and we were face to face. I was + heeled also, and I held up my gun to scare him off and let me get away. He + fired and missed me. I pulled off almost at the same instant, and down he + dropped. I made away across the garden, and as I went I heard the window + shut behind me. That's God's truth, gentlemen, every word of it, and I + heard no more about it until that lad came riding up with a note which + made me walk in here, like a jay, and give myself into your hands.” + </p> + <p> + A cab had driven up whilst the American had been talking. Two uniformed + policemen sat inside. Inspector Martin rose and touched his prisoner on + the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “It is time for us to go.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I see her first?” + </p> + <p> + “No, she is not conscious. Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I only hope that if ever + again I have an important case I shall have the good fortune to have you + by my side.” + </p> + <p> + We stood at the window and watched the cab drive away. As I turned back my + eye caught the pellet of paper which the prisoner had tossed upon the + table. It was the note with which Holmes had decoyed him. + </p> + <p> + “See if you can read it, Watson,” said he, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + It contained no word, but this little line of dancing men:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + “If you use the code which I have explained,” said Holmes, “you will find + that it simply means 'Come here at once.' I was convinced that it was an + invitation which he would not refuse, since he could never imagine that it + could come from anyone but the lady. And so, my dear Watson, we have ended + by turning the dancing men to good when they have so often been the agents + of evil, and I think that I have fulfilled my promise of giving you + something unusual for your note-book. Three-forty is our train, and I + fancy we should be back in Baker Street for dinner.” + </p> + <p> + Only one word of epilogue. The American, Abe Slaney, was condemned to + death at the winter assizes at Norwich; but his penalty was changed to + penal servitude in consideration of mitigating circumstances, and the + certainty that Hilton Cubitt had fired the first shot. Of Mrs. Hilton + Cubitt I only know that I have heard she recovered entirely, and that she + still remains a widow, devoting her whole life to the care of the poor and + to the administration of her husband's estate. + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 27 JANUARY, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + IV.—The Adventure of the Solitary Cyclist. + </h2> + <p> + FROM the years 1894 to 1901 inclusive Mr. Sherlock Holmes was a very busy + man. It is safe to say that there was no public case of any difficulty in + which he was not consulted during those eight years, and there were + hundreds of private cases, some of them of the most intricate and + extraordinary character, in which he played a prominent part. Many + startling successes and a few unavoidable failures were the outcome of + this long period of continuous work. As I have preserved very full notes + of all these cases, and was myself personally engaged in many of them, it + may be imagined that it is no easy task to know which I should select to + lay before the public. I shall, however, preserve my former rule, and give + the preference to those cases which derive their interest not so much from + the brutality of the crime as from the ingenuity and dramatic quality of + the solution. For this reason I will now lay before the reader the facts + connected with Miss Violet Smith, the solitary cyclist of Charlington, and + the curious sequel of our investigation, which culminated in unexpected + tragedy. It is true that the circumstances did not admit of any striking + illustration of those powers for which my friend was famous, but there + were some points about the case which made it stand out in those long + records of crime from which I gather the material for these little + narratives. + </p> + <p> + On referring to my note-book for the year 1895 I find that it was upon + Saturday, the 23rd of April, that we first heard of Miss Violet Smith. Her + visit was, I remember, extremely unwelcome to Holmes, for he was immersed + at the moment in a very abstruse and complicated problem concerning the + peculiar persecution to which John Vincent Harden, the well-known tobacco + millionaire, had been subjected. My friend, who loved above all things + precision and concentration of thought, resented anything which distracted + his attention from the matter in hand. And yet without a harshness which + was foreign to his nature it was impossible to refuse to listen to the + story of the young and beautiful woman, tall, graceful, and queenly, who + presented herself at Baker Street late in the evening and implored his + assistance and advice. It was vain to urge that his time was already fully + occupied, for the young lady had come with the determination to tell her + story, and it was evident that nothing short of force could get her out of + the room until she had done so. With a resigned air and a somewhat weary + smile, Holmes begged the beautiful intruder to take a seat and to inform + us what it was that was troubling her. + </p> + <p> + “At least it cannot be your health,” said he, as his keen eyes darted over + her; “so ardent a bicyclist must be full of energy.” + </p> + <p> + She glanced down in surprise at her own feet, and I observed the slight + roughening of the side of the sole caused by the friction of the edge of + the pedal. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I bicycle a good deal, Mr. Holmes, and that has something to do with + my visit to you to-day.” + </p> + <p> + My friend took the lady's ungloved hand and examined it with as close an + attention and as little sentiment as a scientist would show to a specimen. + </p> + <p> + “You will excuse me, I am sure. It is my business,” said he, as he dropped + it. “I nearly fell into the error of supposing that you were typewriting. + Of course, it is obvious that it is music. You observe the spatulate + finger-end, Watson, which is common to both professions? There is a + spirituality about the face, however”—he gently turned it towards + the light—“which the typewriter does not generate. This lady is a + musician.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Holmes, I teach music.” + </p> + <p> + “In the country, I presume, from your complexion.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; near Farnham, on the borders of Surrey.” + </p> + <p> + “A beautiful neighbourhood and full of the most interesting associations. + You remember, Watson, that it was near there that we took Archie Stamford, + the forger. Now, Miss Violet, what has happened to you near Farnham, on + the borders of Surrey?” + </p> + <p> + The young lady, with great clearness and composure, made the following + curious statement:— + </p> + <p> + “My father is dead, Mr. Holmes. He was James Smith, who conducted the + orchestra at the old Imperial Theatre. My mother and I were left without a + relation in the world except one uncle, Ralph Smith, who went to Africa + twenty-five years ago, and we have never had a word from him since. When + father died we were left very poor, but one day we were told that there + was an advertisement in the TIMES inquiring for our whereabouts. You can + imagine how excited we were, for we thought that someone had left us a + fortune. We went at once to the lawyer whose name was given in the paper. + There we met two gentlemen, Mr. Carruthers and Mr. Woodley, who were home + on a visit from South Africa. They said that my uncle was a friend of + theirs, that he died some months before in great poverty in Johannesburg, + and that he had asked them with his last breath to hunt up his relations + and see that they were in no want. It seemed strange to us that Uncle + Ralph, who took no notice of us when he was alive, should be so careful to + look after us when he was dead; but Mr. Carruthers explained that the + reason was that my uncle had just heard of the death of his brother, and + so felt responsible for our fate.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me,” said Holmes; “when was this interview?” + </p> + <p> + “Last December—four months ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray proceed.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Woodley seemed to me to be a most odious person. He was for ever + making eyes at me—a coarse, puffy-faced, red-moustached young man, + with his hair plastered down on each side of his forehead. I thought that + he was perfectly hateful—and I was sure that Cyril would not wish me + to know such a person.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Cyril is his name!” said Holmes, smiling. + </p> + <p> + The young lady blushed and laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Holmes; Cyril Morton, an electrical engineer, and we hope to be + married at the end of the summer. Dear me, how DID I get talking about + him? What I wished to say was that Mr. Woodley was perfectly odious, but + that Mr. Carruthers, who was a much older man, was more agreeable. He was + a dark, sallow, clean-shaven, silent person; but he had polite manners and + a pleasant smile. He inquired how we were left, and on finding that we + were very poor he suggested that I should come and teach music to his only + daughter, aged ten. I said that I did not like to leave my mother, on + which he suggested that I should go home to her every week-end, and he + offered me a hundred a year, which was certainly splendid pay. So it ended + by my accepting, and I went down to Chiltern Grange, about six miles from + Farnham. Mr. Carruthers was a widower, but he had engaged a + lady-housekeeper, a very respectable, elderly person, called Mrs. Dixon, + to look after his establishment. The child was a dear, and everything + promised well. Mr. Carruthers was very kind and very musical, and we had + most pleasant evenings together. Every week-end I went home to my mother + in town. + </p> + <p> + “The first flaw in my happiness was the arrival of the red-moustached Mr. + Woodley. He came for a visit of a week, and oh, it seemed three months to + me! He was a dreadful person, a bully to everyone else, but to me + something infinitely worse. He made odious love to me, boasted of his + wealth, said that if I married him I would have the finest diamonds in + London, and finally, when I would have nothing to do with him, he seized + me in his arms one day after dinner—he was hideously strong—and + he swore that he would not let me go until I had kissed him. Mr. + Carruthers came in and tore him off from me, on which he turned upon his + own host, knocking him down and cutting his face open. That was the end of + his visit, as you can imagine. Mr. Carruthers apologized to me next day, + and assured me that I should never be exposed to such an insult again. I + have not seen Mr. Woodley since. + </p> + <p> + “And now, Mr. Holmes, I come at last to the special thing which has caused + me to ask your advice to-day. You must know that every Saturday forenoon I + ride on my bicycle to Farnham Station in order to get the 12.22 to town. + The road from Chiltern Grange is a lonely one, and at one spot it is + particularly so, for it lies for over a mile between Charlington Heath + upon one side and the woods which lie round Charlington Hall upon the + other. You could not find a more lonely tract of road anywhere, and it is + quite rare to meet so much as a cart, or a peasant, until you reach the + high road near Crooksbury Hill. Two weeks ago I was passing this place + when I chanced to look back over my shoulder, and about two hundred yards + behind me I saw a man, also on a bicycle. He seemed to be a middle-aged + man, with a short, dark beard. I looked back before I reached Farnham, but + the man was gone, so I thought no more about it. But you can imagine how + surprised I was, Mr. Holmes, when on my return on the Monday I saw the + same man on the same stretch of road. My astonishment was increased when + the incident occurred again, exactly as before, on the following Saturday + and Monday. He always kept his distance and did not molest me in any way, + but still it certainly was very odd. I mentioned it to Mr. Carruthers, who + seemed interested in what I said, and told me that he had ordered a horse + and trap, so that in future I should not pass over these lonely roads + without some companion. + </p> + <p> + “The horse and trap were to have come this week, but for some reason they + were not delivered, and again I had to cycle to the station. That was this + morning. You can think that I looked out when I came to Charlington Heath, + and there, sure enough, was the man, exactly as he had been the two weeks + before. He always kept so far from me that I could not clearly see his + face, but it was certainly someone whom I did not know. He was dressed in + a dark suit with a cloth cap. The only thing about his face that I could + clearly see was his dark beard. To-day I was not alarmed, but I was filled + with curiosity, and I determined to find out who he was and what he + wanted. I slowed down my machine, but he slowed down his. Then I stopped + altogether, but he stopped also. Then I laid a trap for him. There is a + sharp turning of the road, and I pedalled very quickly round this, and + then I stopped and waited. I expected him to shoot round and pass me + before he could stop. But he never appeared. Then I went back and looked + round the corner. I could see a mile of road, but he was not on it. To + make it the more extraordinary, there was no side road at this point down + which he could have gone.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes chuckled and rubbed his hands. “This case certainly presents some + features of its own,” said he. “How much time elapsed between your turning + the corner and your discovery that the road was clear?” + </p> + <p> + “Two or three minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he could not have retreated down the road, and you say that there + are no side roads?” + </p> + <p> + “None.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he certainly took a footpath on one side or the other.” + </p> + <p> + “It could not have been on the side of the heath or I should have seen + him.” + </p> + <p> + “So by the process of exclusion we arrive at the fact that he made his way + towards Charlington Hall, which, as I understand, is situated in its own + grounds on one side of the road. Anything else?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, Mr. Holmes, save that I was so perplexed that I felt I should + not be happy until I had seen you and had your advice.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes sat in silence for some little time. + </p> + <p> + “Where is the gentleman to whom you are engaged?” he asked, at last. + </p> + <p> + “He is in the Midland Electrical Company, at Coventry.” + </p> + <p> + “He would not pay you a surprise visit?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Holmes! As if I should not know him!” + </p> + <p> + “Have you had any other admirers?” + </p> + <p> + “Several before I knew Cyril.” + </p> + <p> + “And since?” + </p> + <p> + “There was this dreadful man, Woodley, if you can call him an admirer.” + </p> + <p> + “No one else?” + </p> + <p> + Our fair client seemed a little confused. + </p> + <p> + “Who was he?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it may be a mere fancy of mine; but it has seemed to me sometimes + that my employer, Mr. Carruthers, takes a great deal of interest in me. We + are thrown rather together. I play his accompaniments in the evening. He + has never said anything. He is a perfect gentleman. But a girl always + knows.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha!” Holmes looked grave. “What does he do for a living?” + </p> + <p> + “He is a rich man.” + </p> + <p> + “No carriages or horses?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, at least he is fairly well-to-do. But he goes into the City two or + three times a week. He is deeply interested in South African gold shares.” + </p> + <p> + “You will let me know any fresh development, Miss Smith. I am very busy + just now, but I will find time to make some inquiries into your case. In + the meantime take no step without letting me know. Good-bye, and I trust + that we shall have nothing but good news from you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is part of the settled order of Nature that such a girl should have + followers,” said Holmes, as he pulled at his meditative pipe, “but for + choice not on bicycles in lonely country roads. Some secretive lover, + beyond all doubt. But there are curious and suggestive details about the + case, Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “That he should appear only at that point?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Our first effort must be to find who are the tenants of + Charlington Hall. Then, again, how about the connection between Carruthers + and Woodley, since they appear to be men of such a different type? How + came they BOTH to be so keen upon looking up Ralph Smith's relations? One + more point. What sort of a MENAGE is it which pays double the market price + for a governess, but does not keep a horse although six miles from the + station? Odd, Watson—very odd!” + </p> + <p> + “You will go down?” + </p> + <p> + “No, my dear fellow, YOU will go down. This may be some trifling intrigue, + and I cannot break my other important research for the sake of it. On + Monday you will arrive early at Farnham; you will conceal yourself near + Charlington Heath; you will observe these facts for yourself, and act as + your own judgment advises. Then, having inquired as to the occupants of + the Hall, you will come back to me and report. And now, Watson, not + another word of the matter until we have a few solid stepping-stones on + which we may hope to get across to our solution.” + </p> + <p> + We had ascertained from the lady that she went down upon the Monday by the + train which leaves Waterloo at 9.50, so I started early and caught the + 9.13. At Farnham Station I had no difficulty in being directed to + Charlington Heath. It was impossible to mistake the scene of the young + lady's adventure, for the road runs between the open heath on one side and + an old yew hedge upon the other, surrounding a park which is studded with + magnificent trees. There was a main gateway of lichen-studded stone, each + side pillar surmounted by mouldering heraldic emblems; but besides this + central carriage drive I observed several points where there were gaps in + the hedge and paths leading through them. The house was invisible from the + road, but the surroundings all spoke of gloom and decay. + </p> + <p> + The heath was covered with golden patches of flowering gorse, gleaming + magnificently in the light of the bright spring sunshine. Behind one of + these clumps I took up my position, so as to command both the gateway of + the Hall and a long stretch of the road upon either side. It had been + deserted when I left it, but now I saw a cyclist riding down it from the + opposite direction to that in which I had come. He was clad in a dark + suit, and I saw that he had a black beard. On reaching the end of the + Charlington grounds he sprang from his machine and led it through a gap in + the hedge, disappearing from my view. + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour passed and then a second cyclist appeared. This time + it was the young lady coming from the station. I saw her look about her as + she came to the Charlington hedge. An instant later the man emerged from + his hiding-place, sprang upon his cycle, and followed her. In all the + broad landscape those were the only moving figures, the graceful girl + sitting very straight upon her machine, and the man behind her bending low + over his handle-bar, with a curiously furtive suggestion in every + movement. She looked back at him and slowed her pace. He slowed also. She + stopped. He at once stopped too, keeping two hundred yards behind her. Her + next movement was as unexpected as it was spirited. She suddenly whisked + her wheels round and dashed straight at him! He was as quick as she, + however, and darted off in desperate flight. Presently she came back up + the road again, her head haughtily in the air, not deigning to take any + further notice of her silent attendant. He had turned also, and still kept + his distance until the curve of the road hid them from my sight. + </p> + <p> + I remained in my hiding-place, and it was well that I did so, for + presently the man reappeared cycling slowly back. He turned in at the Hall + gates and dismounted from his machine. For some few minutes I could see + him standing among the trees. His hands were raised and he seemed to be + settling his necktie. Then he mounted his cycle and rode away from me down + the drive towards the Hall. I ran across the heath and peered through the + trees. Far away I could catch glimpses of the old grey building with its + bristling Tudor chimneys, but the drive ran through a dense shrubbery, and + I saw no more of my man. + </p> + <p> + However, it seemed to me that I had done a fairly good morning's work, and + I walked back in high spirits to Farnham. The local house-agent could tell + me nothing about Charlington Hall, and referred me to a well-known firm in + Pall Mall. There I halted on my way home, and met with courtesy from the + representative. No, I could not have Charlington Hall for the summer. I + was just too late. It had been let about a month ago. Mr. Williamson was + the name of the tenant. He was a respectable elderly gentleman. The polite + agent was afraid he could say no more, as the affairs of his clients were + not matters which he could discuss. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Sherlock Holmes listened with attention to the long report which I was + able to present to him that evening, but it did not elicit that word of + curt praise which I had hoped for and should have valued. On the contrary, + his austere face was even more severe than usual as he commented upon the + things that I had done and the things that I had not. + </p> + <p> + “Your hiding-place, my dear Watson, was very faulty. You should have been + behind the hedge; then you would have had a close view of this interesting + person. As it is you were some hundreds of yards away, and can tell me + even less than Miss Smith. She thinks she does not know the man; I am + convinced she does. Why, otherwise, should he be so desperately anxious + that she should not get so near him as to see his features? You describe + him as bending over the handle-bar. Concealment again, you see. You really + have done remarkably badly. He returns to the house and you want to find + out who he is. You come to a London house-agent!” + </p> + <p> + “What should I have done?” I cried, with some heat. + </p> + <p> + “Gone to the nearest public-house. That is the centre of country gossip. + They would have told you every name, from the master to the scullery-maid. + Williamson! It conveys nothing to my mind. If he is an elderly man he is + not this active cyclist who sprints away from that athletic young lady's + pursuit. What have we gained by your expedition? The knowledge that the + girl's story is true. I never doubted it. That there is a connection + between the cyclist and the Hall. I never doubted that either. That the + Hall is tenanted by Williamson. Who's the better for that? Well, well, my + dear sir, don't look so depressed. We can do little more until next + Saturday, and in the meantime I may make one or two inquiries myself.” + </p> + <p> + Next morning we had a note from Miss Smith, recounting shortly and + accurately the very incidents which I had seen, but the pith of the letter + lay in the postscript:— + </p> + <p> + “I am sure that you will respect my confidence, Mr. Holmes, when I tell + you that my place here has become difficult owing to the fact that my + employer has proposed marriage to me. I am convinced that his feelings are + most deep and most honourable. At the same time my promise is, of course, + given. He took my refusal very seriously, but also very gently. You can + understand, however, that the situation is a little strained.” + </p> + <p> + “Our young friend seems to be getting into deep waters,” said Holmes, + thoughtfully, as he finished the letter. “The case certainly presents more + features of interest and more possibility of development than I had + originally thought. I should be none the worse for a quiet, peaceful day + in the country, and I am inclined to run down this afternoon and test one + or two theories which I have formed.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes's quiet day in the country had a singular termination, for he + arrived at Baker Street late in the evening with a cut lip and a + discoloured lump upon his forehead, besides a general air of dissipation + which would have made his own person the fitting object of a Scotland Yard + investigation. He was immensely tickled by his own adventures, and laughed + heartily as he recounted them. + </p> + <p> + “I get so little active exercise that it is always a treat,” said he. “You + are aware that I have some proficiency in the good old British sport of + boxing. Occasionally it is of service. To-day, for example, I should have + come to very ignominious grief without it.” + </p> + <p> + I begged him to tell me what had occurred. + </p> + <p> + “I found that country pub which I had already recommended to your notice, + and there I made my discreet inquiries. I was in the bar, and a garrulous + landlord was giving me all that I wanted. Williamson is a white-bearded + man, and he lives alone with a small staff of servants at the Hall. There + is some rumour that he is or has been a clergyman; but one or two + incidents of his short residence at the Hall struck me as peculiarly + unecclesiastical. I have already made some inquiries at a clerical agency, + and they tell me that there WAS a man of that name in orders whose career + has been a singularly dark one. The landlord further informed me that + there are usually week-end visitors—'a warm lot, sir'—at the + Hall, and especially one gentleman with a red moustache, Mr. Woodley by + name, who was always there. We had got as far as this when who should walk + in but the gentleman himself, who had been drinking his beer in the + tap-room and had heard the whole conversation. Who was I? What did I want? + What did I mean by asking questions? He had a fine flow of language, and + his adjectives were very vigorous. He ended a string of abuse by a vicious + back-hander which I failed to entirely avoid. The next few minutes were + delicious. It was a straight left against a slogging ruffian. I emerged as + you see me. Mr. Woodley went home in a cart. So ended my country trip, and + it must be confessed that, however enjoyable, my day on the Surrey border + has not been much more profitable than your own.” + </p> + <p> + The Thursday brought us another letter from our client. + </p> + <p> + “You will not be surprised, Mr. Holmes,” said she, “to hear that I am + leaving Mr. Carruthers's employment. Even the high pay cannot reconcile me + to the discomforts of my situation. On Saturday I come up to town and I do + not intend to return. Mr. Carruthers has got a trap, and so the dangers of + the lonely road, if there ever were any dangers, are now over. + </p> + <p> + “As to the special cause of my leaving, it is not merely the strained + situation with Mr. Carruthers, but it is the reappearance of that odious + man, Mr. Woodley. He was always hideous, but he looks more awful than ever + now, for he appears to have had an accident and he is much disfigured. I + saw him out of the window, but I am glad to say I did not meet him. He had + a long talk with Mr. Carruthers, who seemed much excited afterwards. + Woodley must be staying in the neighbourhood, for he did not sleep here, + and yet I caught a glimpse of him again this morning slinking about in the + shrubbery. I would sooner have a savage wild animal loose about the place. + I loathe and fear him more than I can say. How CAN Mr. Carruthers endure + such a creature for a moment? However, all my troubles will be over on + Saturday.” + </p> + <p> + “So I trust, Watson; so I trust,” said Holmes, gravely. “There is some + deep intrigue going on round that little woman, and it is our duty to see + that no one molests her upon that last journey. I think, Watson, that we + must spare time to run down together on Saturday morning, and make sure + that this curious and inconclusive investigation has no untoward ending.” + </p> + <p> + I confess that I had not up to now taken a very serious view of the case, + which had seemed to me rather grotesque and bizarre than dangerous. That a + man should lie in wait for and follow a very handsome woman is no + unheard-of thing, and if he had so little audacity that he not only dared + not address her, but even fled from her approach, he was not a very + formidable assailant. The ruffian Woodley was a very different person, + but, except on one occasion, he had not molested our client, and now he + visited the house of Carruthers without intruding upon her presence. The + man on the bicycle was doubtless a member of those week-end parties at the + Hall of which the publican had spoken; but who he was or what he wanted + was as obscure as ever. It was the severity of Holmes's manner and the + fact that he slipped a revolver into his pocket before leaving our rooms + which impressed me with the feeling that tragedy might prove to lurk + behind this curious train of events. + </p> + <p> + A rainy night had been followed by a glorious morning, and the + heath-covered country-side with the glowing clumps of flowering gorse + seemed all the more beautiful to eyes which were weary of the duns and + drabs and slate-greys of London. Holmes and I walked along the broad, + sandy road inhaling the fresh morning air, and rejoicing in the music of + the birds and the fresh breath of the spring. From a rise of the road on + the shoulder of Crooksbury Hill we could see the grim Hall bristling out + from amidst the ancient oaks, which, old as they were, were still younger + than the building which they surrounded. Holmes pointed down the long + tract of road which wound, a reddish yellow band, between the brown of the + heath and the budding green of the woods. Far away, a black dot, we could + see a vehicle moving in our direction. Holmes gave an exclamation of + impatience. + </p> + <p> + “I had given a margin of half an hour,” said he. “If that is her trap she + must be making for the earlier train. I fear, Watson, that she will be + past Charlington before we can possibly meet her.” + </p> + <p> + From the instant that we passed the rise we could no longer see the + vehicle, but we hastened onwards at such a pace that my sedentary life + began to tell upon me, and I was compelled to fall behind. Holmes, + however, was always in training, for he had inexhaustible stores of + nervous energy upon which to draw. His springy step never slowed until + suddenly, when he was a hundred yards in front of me, he halted, and I saw + him throw up his hand with a gesture of grief and despair. At the same + instant an empty dog-cart, the horse cantering, the reins trailing, + appeared round the curve of the road and rattled swiftly towards us. + </p> + <p> + “Too late, Watson; too late!” cried Holmes, as I ran panting to his side. + “Fool that I was not to allow for that earlier train! It's abduction, + Watson—abduction! Murder! Heaven knows what! Block the road! Stop + the horse! That's right. Now, jump in, and let us see if I can repair the + consequences of my own blunder.” + </p> + <p> + We had sprung into the dog-cart, and Holmes, after turning the horse, gave + it a sharp cut with the whip, and we flew back along the road. As we + turned the curve the whole stretch of road between the Hall and the heath + was opened up. I grasped Holmes's arm. + </p> + <p> + “That's the man!” I gasped. + </p> + <p> + A solitary cyclist was coming towards us. His head was down and his + shoulders rounded as he put every ounce of energy that he possessed on to + the pedals. He was flying like a racer. Suddenly he raised his bearded + face, saw us close to him, and pulled up, springing from his machine. That + coal-black beard was in singular contrast to the pallor of his face, and + his eyes were as bright as if he had a fever. He stared at us and at the + dog-cart. Then a look of amazement came over his face. + </p> + <p> + “Halloa! Stop there!” he shouted, holding his bicycle to block our road. + “Where did you get that dog-cart? Pull up, man!” he yelled, drawing a + pistol from his side pocket. “Pull up, I say, or, by George, I'll put a + bullet into your horse.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes threw the reins into my lap and sprang down from the cart. + </p> + <p> + “You're the man we want to see. Where is Miss Violet Smith?” he said, in + his quick, clear way. + </p> + <p> + “That's what I am asking you. You're in her dog-cart. You ought to know + where she is.” + </p> + <p> + “We met the dog-cart on the road. There was no one in it. We drove back to + help the young lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Good Lord! Good Lord! what shall I do?” cried the stranger, in an ecstasy + of despair. “They've got her, that hellhound Woodley and the blackguard + parson. Come, man, come, if you really are her friend. Stand by me and + we'll save her, if I have to leave my carcass in Charlington Wood.” + </p> + <p> + He ran distractedly, his pistol in his hand, towards a gap in the hedge. + Holmes followed him, and I, leaving the horse grazing beside the road, + followed Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “This is where they came through,” said he, pointing to the marks of + several feet upon the muddy path. “Halloa! Stop a minute! Who's this in + the bush?” + </p> + <p> + It was a young fellow about seventeen, dressed like an ostler, with + leather cords and gaiters. He lay upon his back, his knees drawn up, a + terrible cut upon his head. He was insensible, but alive. A glance at his + wound told me that it had not penetrated the bone. + </p> + <p> + “That's Peter, the groom,” cried the stranger. “He drove her. The beasts + have pulled him off and clubbed him. Let him lie; we can't do him any + good, but we may save her from the worst fate that can befall a woman.” + </p> + <p> + We ran frantically down the path, which wound among the trees. We had + reached the shrubbery which surrounded the house when Holmes pulled up. + </p> + <p> + “They didn't go to the house. Here are their marks on the left—here, + beside the laurel bushes! Ah, I said so!” + </p> + <p> + As he spoke a woman's shrill scream—a scream which vibrated with a + frenzy of horror—burst from the thick green clump of bushes in front + of us. It ended suddenly on its highest note with a choke and a gurgle. + </p> + <p> + “This way! This way! They are in the bowling alley,” cried the stranger, + darting through the bushes. “Ah, the cowardly dogs! Follow me, gentlemen! + Too late! too late! by the living Jingo!” + </p> + <p> + We had broken suddenly into a lovely glade of greensward surrounded by + ancient trees. On the farther side of it, under the shadow of a mighty + oak, there stood a singular group of three people. One was a woman, our + client, drooping and faint, a handkerchief round her mouth. Opposite her + stood a brutal, heavy-faced, red-moustached young man, his gaitered legs + parted wide, one arm akimbo, the other waving a riding-crop, his whole + attitude suggestive of triumphant bravado. Between them an elderly, + grey-bearded man, wearing a short surplice over a light tweed suit, had + evidently just completed the wedding service, for he pocketed his + prayer-book as we appeared and slapped the sinister bridegroom upon the + back in jovial congratulation. + </p> + <p> + “They're married!” I gasped. + </p> + <p> + “Come on!” cried our guide; “come on!” He rushed across the glade, Holmes + and I at his heels. As we approached, the lady staggered against the trunk + of the tree for support. Williamson, the ex-clergyman, bowed to us with + mock politeness, and the bully Woodley advanced with a shout of brutal and + exultant laughter. + </p> + <p> + “You can take your beard off, Bob,” said he. “I know you right enough. + Well, you and your pals have just come in time for me to be able to + introduce you to Mrs. Woodley.” + </p> + <p> + Our guide's answer was a singular one. He snatched off the dark beard + which had disguised him and threw it on the ground, disclosing a long, + sallow, clean-shaven face below it. Then he raised his revolver and + covered the young ruffian, who was advancing upon him with his dangerous + riding-crop swinging in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said our ally, “I AM Bob Carruthers, and I'll see this woman + righted if I have to swing for it. I told you what I'd do if you molested + her, and, by the Lord, I'll be as good as my word!” + </p> + <p> + “You're too late. She's my wife!” + </p> + <p> + “No, she's your widow.” + </p> + <p> + His revolver cracked, and I saw the blood spurt from the front of + Woodley's waistcoat. He spun round with a scream and fell upon his back, + his hideous red face turning suddenly to a dreadful mottled pallor. The + old man, still clad in his surplice, burst into such a string of foul + oaths as I have never heard, and pulled out a revolver of his own, but + before he could raise it he was looking down the barrel of Holmes's + weapon. + </p> + <p> + “Enough of this,” said my friend, coldly. “Drop that pistol! Watson, pick + it up! Hold it to his head! Thank you. You, Carruthers, give me that + revolver. We'll have no more violence. Come, hand it over!” + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, then?” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Sherlock Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “Good Lord!” + </p> + <p> + “You have heard of me, I see. I will represent the official police until + their arrival. Here, you!” he shouted to a frightened groom who had + appeared at the edge of the glade. “Come here. Take this note as hard as + you can ride to Farnham.” He scribbled a few words upon a leaf from his + note-book. “Give it to the superintendent at the police-station. Until he + comes I must detain you all under my personal custody.” + </p> + <p> + The strong, masterful personality of Holmes dominated the tragic scene, + and all were equally puppets in his hands. Williamson and Carruthers found + themselves carrying the wounded Woodley into the house, and I gave my arm + to the frightened girl. The injured man was laid on his bed, and at + Holmes's request I examined him. I carried my report to where he sat in + the old tapestry-hung dining-room with his two prisoners before him. + </p> + <p> + “He will live,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “What!” cried Carruthers, springing out of his chair. “I'll go upstairs + and finish him first. Do you tell me that that girl, that angel, is to be + tied to Roaring Jack Woodley for life?” + </p> + <p> + “You need not concern yourself about that,” said Holmes. “There are two + very good reasons why she should under no circumstances be his wife. In + the first place, we are very safe in questioning Mr. Williamson's right to + solemnize a marriage.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been ordained,” cried the old rascal. + </p> + <p> + “And also unfrocked.” + </p> + <p> + “Once a clergyman, always a clergyman.” + </p> + <p> + “I think not. How about the license?” + </p> + <p> + “We had a license for the marriage. I have it here in my pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you got it by a trick. But in any case a forced marriage is no + marriage, but it is a very serious felony, as you will discover before you + have finished. You'll have time to think the point out during the next ten + years or so, unless I am mistaken. As to you, Carruthers, you would have + done better to keep your pistol in your pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “I begin to think so, Mr. Holmes; but when I thought of all the precaution + I had taken to shield this girl—for I loved her, Mr. Holmes, and it + is the only time that ever I knew what love was—it fairly drove me + mad to think that she was in the power of the greatest brute and bully in + South Africa, a man whose name is a holy terror from Kimberley to + Johannesburg. Why, Mr. Holmes, you'll hardly believe it, but ever since + that girl has been in my employment I never once let her go past this + house, where I knew these rascals were lurking, without following her on + my bicycle just to see that she came to no harm. I kept my distance from + her, and I wore a beard so that she should not recognise me, for she is a + good and high-spirited girl, and she wouldn't have stayed in my employment + long if she had thought that I was following her about the country roads.” + </p> + <p> + “Why didn't you tell her of her danger?” + </p> + <p> + “Because then, again, she would have left me, and I couldn't bear to face + that. Even if she couldn't love me it was a great deal to me just to see + her dainty form about the house, and to hear the sound of her voice.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said I, “you call that love, Mr. Carruthers, but I should call it + selfishness.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe the two things go together. Anyhow, I couldn't let her go. Besides, + with this crowd about, it was well that she should have someone near to + look after her. Then when the cable came I knew they were bound to make a + move.” + </p> + <p> + “What cable?” + </p> + <p> + Carruthers took a telegram from his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “That's it,” said he. + </p> + <p> + It was short and concise:— + </p> + <p> + “The old man is dead.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum!” said Holmes. “I think I see how things worked, and I can understand + how this message would, as you say, bring them to a head. But while we + wait you might tell me what you can.” + </p> + <p> + The old reprobate with the surplice burst into a volley of bad language. + </p> + <p> + “By Heaven,” said he, “if you squeal on us, Bob Carruthers, I'll serve you + as you served Jack Woodley. You can bleat about the girl to your heart's + content, for that's your own affair, but if you round on your pals to this + plain-clothes copper it will be the worst day's work that ever you did.” + </p> + <p> + “Your reverence need not be excited,” said Holmes, lighting a cigarette. + “The case is clear enough against you, and all I ask is a few details for + my private curiosity. However, if there's any difficulty in your telling + me I'll do the talking, and then you will see how far you have a chance of + holding back your secrets. In the first place, three of you came from + South Africa on this game—you Williamson, you Carruthers, and + Woodley.” + </p> + <p> + “Lie number one,” said the old man; “I never saw either of them until two + months ago, and I have never been in Africa in my life, so you can put + that in your pipe and smoke it, Mr. Busybody Holmes!” + </p> + <p> + “What he says is true,” said Carruthers. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, two of you came over. His reverence is our own home-made + article. You had known Ralph Smith in South Africa. You had reason to + believe he would not live long. You found out that his niece would inherit + his fortune. How's that—eh?” + </p> + <p> + Carruthers nodded and Williamson swore. + </p> + <p> + “She was next-of-kin, no doubt, and you were aware that the old fellow + would make no will.” + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't read or write,” said Carruthers. + </p> + <p> + “So you came over, the two of you, and hunted up the girl. The idea was + that one of you was to marry her and the other have a share of the + plunder. For some reason Woodley was chosen as the husband. Why was that?” + </p> + <p> + “We played cards for her on the voyage. He won.” + </p> + <p> + “I see. You got the young lady into your service, and there Woodley was to + do the courting. She recognised the drunken brute that he was, and would + have nothing to do with him. Meanwhile, your arrangement was rather upset + by the fact that you had yourself fallen in love with the lady. You could + no longer bear the idea of this ruffian owning her.” + </p> + <p> + “No, by George, I couldn't!” + </p> + <p> + “There was a quarrel between you. He left you in a rage, and began to make + his own plans independently of you.” + </p> + <p> + “It strikes me, Williamson, there isn't very much that we can tell this + gentleman,” cried Carruthers, with a bitter laugh. “Yes, we quarreled, and + he knocked me down. I am level with him on that, anyhow. Then I lost sight + of him. That was when he picked up with this cast padre here. I found that + they had set up house-keeping together at this place on the line that she + had to pass for the station. I kept my eye on her after that, for I knew + there was some devilry in the wind. I saw them from time to time, for I + was anxious to know what they were after. Two days ago Woodley came up to + my house with this cable, which showed that Ralph Smith was dead. He asked + me if I would stand by the bargain. I said I would not. He asked me if I + would marry the girl myself and give him a share. I said I would willingly + do so, but that she would not have me. He said, 'Let us get her married + first, and after a week or two she may see things a bit different.' I said + I would have nothing to do with violence. So he went off cursing, like the + foul-mouthed blackguard that he was, and swearing that he would have her + yet. She was leaving me this week-end, and I had got a trap to take her to + the station, but I was so uneasy in my mind that I followed her on my + bicycle. She had got a start, however, and before I could catch her the + mischief was done. The first thing I knew about it was when I saw you two + gentlemen driving back in her dog-cart.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes rose and tossed the end of his cigarette into the grate. “I have + been very obtuse, Watson,” said he. “When in your report you said that you + had seen the cyclist as you thought arrange his necktie in the shrubbery, + that alone should have told me all. However, we may congratulate ourselves + upon a curious and in some respects a unique case. I perceive three of the + county constabulary in the drive, and I am glad to see that the little + ostler is able to keep pace with them; so it is likely that neither he nor + the interesting bridegroom will be permanently damaged by their morning's + adventures. I think, Watson, that in your medical capacity you might wait + upon Miss Smith and tell her that if she is sufficiently recovered we + shall be happy to escort her to her mother's home. If she is not quite + convalescent you will find that a hint that we were about to telegraph to + a young electrician in the Midlands would probably complete the cure. As + to you, Mr. Carruthers, I think that you have done what you could to make + amends for your share in an evil plot. There is my card, sir, and if my + evidence can be of help to you in your trial it shall be at your + disposal.” + </p> + <p> + In the whirl of our incessant activity it has often been difficult for me, + as the reader has probably observed, to round off my narratives, and to + give those final details which the curious might expect. Each case has + been the prelude to another, and the crisis once over the actors have + passed for ever out of our busy lives. I find, however, a short note at + the end of my manuscripts dealing with this case, in which I have put it + upon record that Miss Violet Smith did indeed inherit a large fortune, and + that she is now the wife of Cyril Morton, the senior partner of Morton + & Kennedy, the famous Westminster electricians. Williamson and Woodley + were both tried for abduction and assault, the former getting seven years + and the latter ten. Of the fate of Carruthers I have no record, but I am + sure that his assault was not viewed very gravely by the Court, since + Woodley had the reputation of being a most dangerous ruffian, and I think + that a few months were sufficient to satisfy the demands of justice. + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 27 FEBRUARY, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + V.—The Adventure of the Priory School. + </h2> + <p> + WE have had some dramatic entrances and exits upon our small stage at + Baker Street, but I cannot recollect anything more sudden and startling + than the first appearance of Thorneycroft Huxtable, M.A., Ph.D., etc. His + card, which seemed too small to carry the weight of his academic + distinctions, preceded him by a few seconds, and then he entered himself—so + large, so pompous, and so dignified that he was the very embodiment of + self-possession and solidity. And yet his first action when the door had + closed behind him was to stagger against the table, whence he slipped down + upon the floor, and there was that majestic figure prostrate and + insensible upon our bearskin hearthrug. + </p> + <p> + We had sprung to our feet, and for a few moments we stared in silent + amazement at this ponderous piece of wreckage, which told of some sudden + and fatal storm far out on the ocean of life. Then Holmes hurried with a + cushion for his head and I with brandy for his lips. The heavy white face + was seamed with lines of trouble, the hanging pouches under the closed + eyes were leaden in colour, the loose mouth drooped dolorously at the + corners, the rolling chins were unshaven. Collar and shirt bore the grime + of a long journey, and the hair bristled unkempt from the well-shaped + head. It was a sorely-stricken man who lay before us. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Watson?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Absolute exhaustion—possibly mere hunger and fatigue,” said I, with + my finger on the thready pulse, where the stream of life trickled thin and + small. + </p> + <p> + “Return ticket from Mackleton, in the North of England,” said Holmes, + drawing it from the watch-pocket. “It is not twelve o'clock yet. He has + certainly been an early starter.” + </p> + <p> + The puckered eyelids had begun to quiver, and now a pair of vacant, grey + eyes looked up at us. An instant later the man had scrambled on to his + feet, his face crimson with shame. + </p> + <p> + “Forgive this weakness, Mr. Holmes; I have been a little overwrought. + Thank you, if I might have a glass of milk and a biscuit I have no doubt + that I should be better. I came personally, Mr. Holmes, in order to ensure + that you would return with me. I feared that no telegram would convince + you of the absolute urgency of the case.” + </p> + <p> + “When you are quite restored—-” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite well again. I cannot imagine how I came to be so weak. I wish + you, Mr. Holmes, to come to Mackleton with me by the next train.” + </p> + <p> + My friend shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “My colleague, Dr. Watson, could tell you that we are very busy at + present. I am retained in this case of the Ferrers Documents, and the + Abergavenny murder is coming up for trial. Only a very important issue + could call me from London at present.” + </p> + <p> + “Important!” Our visitor threw up his hands. “Have you heard nothing of + the abduction of the only son of the Duke of Holdernesse?” + </p> + <p> + “What! the late Cabinet Minister?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. We had tried to keep it out of the papers, but there was some + rumour in the GLOBE last night. I thought it might have reached your + ears.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes shot out his long, thin arm and picked out Volume “H” in his + encyclopaedia of reference. + </p> + <p> + “'Holdernesse, 6th Duke, K.G., P.C.'—half the alphabet! 'Baron + Beverley, Earl of Carston'—dear me, what a list! 'Lord Lieutenant of + Hallamshire since 1900. Married Edith, daughter of Sir Charles Appledore, + 1888. Heir and only child, Lord Saltire. Owns about two hundred and fifty + thousand acres. Minerals in Lancashire and Wales. Address: Carlton House + Terrace; Holdernesse Hall, Hallamshire; Carston Castle, Bangor, Wales. + Lord of the Admiralty, 1872; Chief Secretary of State for—' Well, + well, this man is certainly one of the greatest subjects of the Crown!” + </p> + <p> + “The greatest and perhaps the wealthiest. I am aware, Mr. Holmes, that you + take a very high line in professional matters, and that you are prepared + to work for the work's sake. I may tell you, however, that his Grace has + already intimated that a cheque for five thousand pounds will be handed + over to the person who can tell him where his son is, and another thousand + to him who can name the man, or men, who have taken him.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a princely offer,” said Holmes. “Watson, I think that we shall + accompany Dr. Huxtable back to the North of England. And now, Dr. + Huxtable, when you have consumed that milk you will kindly tell me what + has happened, when it happened, how it happened, and, finally, what Dr. + Thorneycroft Huxtable, of the Priory School, near Mackleton, has to do + with the matter, and why he comes three days after an event—the + state of your chin gives the date—to ask for my humble services.” + </p> + <p> + Our visitor had consumed his milk and biscuits. The light had come back to + his eyes and the colour to his cheeks as he set himself with great vigour + and lucidity to explain the situation. + </p> + <p> + “I must inform you, gentlemen, that the Priory is a preparatory school, of + which I am the founder and principal. 'Huxtable's Sidelights on Horace' + may possibly recall my name to your memories. The Priory is, without + exception, the best and most select preparatory school in England. Lord + Leverstoke, the Earl of Blackwater, Sir Cathcart Soames—they all + have entrusted their sons to me. But I felt that my school had reached its + zenith when, three weeks ago, the Duke of Holdernesse sent Mr. James + Wilder, his secretary, with the intimation that young Lord Saltire, ten + years old, his only son and heir, was about to be committed to my charge. + Little did I think that this would be the prelude to the most crushing + misfortune of my life. + </p> + <p> + “On May 1st the boy arrived, that being the beginning of the summer term. + He was a charming youth, and he soon fell into our ways. I may tell you—I + trust that I am not indiscreet, but half-confidences are absurd in such a + case—that he was not entirely happy at home. It is an open secret + that the Duke's married life had not been a peaceful one, and the matter + had ended in a separation by mutual consent, the Duchess taking up her + residence in the South of France. This had occurred very shortly before, + and the boy's sympathies are known to have been strongly with his mother. + He moped after her departure from Holdernesse Hall, and it was for this + reason that the Duke desired to send him to my establishment. In a + fortnight the boy was quite at home with us, and was apparently absolutely + happy. + </p> + <p> + “He was last seen on the night of May 13th—that is, the night of + last Monday. His room was on the second floor, and was approached through + another larger room in which two boys were sleeping. These boys saw and + heard nothing, so that it is certain that young Saltire did not pass out + that way. His window was open, and there is a stout ivy plant leading to + the ground. We could trace no footmarks below, but it is sure that this is + the only possible exit. + </p> + <p> + “His absence was discovered at seven o'clock on Tuesday morning. His bed + had been slept in. He had dressed himself fully before going off in his + usual school suit of black Eton jacket and dark grey trousers. There were + no signs that anyone had entered the room, and it is quite certain that + anything in the nature of cries, or a struggle, would have been heard, + since Caunter, the elder boy in the inner room, is a very light sleeper. + </p> + <p> + “When Lord Saltire's disappearance was discovered I at once called a roll + of the whole establishment, boys, masters, and servants. It was then that + we ascertained that Lord Saltire had not been alone in his flight. + Heidegger, the German master, was missing. His room was on the second + floor, at the farther end of the building, facing the same way as Lord + Saltire's. His bed had also been slept in; but he had apparently gone away + partly dressed, since his shirt and socks were lying on the floor. He had + undoubtedly let himself down by the ivy, for we could see the marks of his + feet where he had landed on the lawn. His bicycle was kept in a small shed + beside this lawn, and it also was gone. + </p> + <p> + “He had been with me for two years, and came with the best references; but + he was a silent, morose man, not very popular either with masters or boys. + No trace could be found of the fugitives, and now on Thursday morning we + are as ignorant as we were on Tuesday. Inquiry was, of course, made at + once at Holdernesse Hall. It is only a few miles away, and we imagined + that in some sudden attack of home-sickness he had gone back to his + father; but nothing had been heard of him. The Duke is greatly agitated—and + as to me, you have seen yourselves the state of nervous prostration to + which the suspense and the responsibility have reduced me. Mr. Holmes, if + ever you put forward your full powers, I implore you to do so now, for + never in your life could you have a case which is more worthy of them.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes had listened with the utmost intentness to the statement + of the unhappy schoolmaster. His drawn brows and the deep furrow between + them showed that he needed no exhortation to concentrate all his attention + upon a problem which, apart from the tremendous interests involved, must + appeal so directly to his love of the complex and the unusual. He now drew + out his note-book and jotted down one or two memoranda. + </p> + <p> + “You have been very remiss in not coming to me sooner,” said he, severely. + “You start me on my investigation with a very serious handicap. It is + inconceivable, for example, that this ivy and this lawn would have yielded + nothing to an expert observer.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not to blame, Mr. Holmes. His Grace was extremely desirous to avoid + all public scandal. He was afraid of his family unhappiness being dragged + before the world. He has a deep horror of anything of the kind.” + </p> + <p> + “But there has been some official investigation?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, and it has proved most disappointing. An apparent clue was at + once obtained, since a boy and a young man were reported to have been seen + leaving a neighbouring station by an early train. Only last night we had + news that the couple had been hunted down in Liverpool, and they prove to + have no connection whatever with the matter in hand. Then it was that in + my despair and disappointment, after a sleepless night, I came straight to + you by the early train.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose the local investigation was relaxed while this false clue was + being followed up?” + </p> + <p> + “It was entirely dropped.” + </p> + <p> + “So that three days have been wasted. The affair has been most deplorably + handled.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel it, and admit it.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet the problem should be capable of ultimate solution. I shall be + very happy to look into it. Have you been able to trace any connection + between the missing boy and this German master?” + </p> + <p> + “None at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Was he in the master's class?” + </p> + <p> + “No; he never exchanged a word with him so far as I know.” + </p> + <p> + “That is certainly very singular. Had the boy a bicycle?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Was any other bicycle missing?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that certain?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, you do not mean to seriously suggest that this German rode off + upon a bicycle in the dead of the night bearing the boy in his arms?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what is the theory in your mind?” + </p> + <p> + “The bicycle may have been a blind. It may have been hidden somewhere and + the pair gone off on foot.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so; but it seems rather an absurd blind, does it not? Were there + other bicycles in this shed?” + </p> + <p> + “Several.” + </p> + <p> + “Would he not have hidden A COUPLE had he desired to give the idea that + they had gone off upon them?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose he would.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course he would. The blind theory won't do. But the incident is an + admirable starting-point for an investigation. After all, a bicycle is not + an easy thing to conceal or to destroy. One other question. Did anyone + call to see the boy on the day before he disappeared?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he get any letters?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; one letter.” + </p> + <p> + “From whom?” + </p> + <p> + “From his father.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you open the boys' letters?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know it was from the father?” + </p> + <p> + “The coat of arms was on the envelope, and it was addressed in the Duke's + peculiar stiff hand. Besides, the Duke remembers having written.” + </p> + <p> + “When had he a letter before that?” + </p> + <p> + “Not for several days.” + </p> + <p> + “Had he ever one from France?” + </p> + <p> + “No; never. + </p> + <p> + “You see the point of my questions, of course. Either the boy was carried + off by force or he went of his own free will. In the latter case you would + expect that some prompting from outside would be needed to make so young a + lad do such a thing. If he has had no visitors, that prompting must have + come in letters. Hence I try to find out who were his correspondents.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear I cannot help you much. His only correspondent, so far as I know, + was his own father.” + </p> + <p> + “Who wrote to him on the very day of his disappearance. Were the relations + between father and son very friendly?” + </p> + <p> + “His Grace is never very friendly with anyone. He is completely immersed + in large public questions, and is rather inaccessible to all ordinary + emotions. But he was always kind to the boy in his own way.” + </p> + <p> + “But the sympathies of the latter were with the mother?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he say so?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “The Duke, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens, no!” + </p> + <p> + “Then how could you know?” + </p> + <p> + “I have had some confidential talks with Mr. James Wilder, his Grace's + secretary. It was he who gave me the information about Lord Saltire's + feelings.” + </p> + <p> + “I see. By the way, that last letter of the Duke's—was it found in + the boy's room after he was gone?” + </p> + <p> + “No; he had taken it with him. I think, Mr. Holmes, it is time that we + were leaving for Euston.” + </p> + <p> + “I will order a four-wheeler. In a quarter of an hour we shall be at your + service. If you are telegraphing home, Mr. Huxtable, it would be well to + allow the people in your neighbourhood to imagine that the inquiry is + still going on in Liverpool, or wherever else that red herring led your + pack. In the meantime I will do a little quiet work at your own doors, and + perhaps the scent is not so cold but that two old hounds like Watson and + myself may get a sniff of it.” + </p> + <p> + That evening found us in the cold, bracing atmosphere of the Peak country, + in which Dr. Huxtable's famous school is situated. It was already dark + when we reached it. A card was lying on the hall table, and the butler + whispered something to his master, who turned to us with agitation in + every heavy feature. + </p> + <p> + “The Duke is here,” said he. “The Duke and Mr. Wilder are in the study. + Come, gentlemen, and I will introduce you.” + </p> + <p> + I was, of course, familiar with the pictures of the famous statesman, but + the man himself was very different from his representation. He was a tall + and stately person, scrupulously dressed, with a drawn, thin face, and a + nose which was grotesquely curved and long. His complexion was of a dead + pallor, which was more startling by contrast with a long, dwindling beard + of vivid red, which flowed down over his white waistcoat, with his + watch-chain gleaming through its fringe. Such was the stately presence who + looked stonily at us from the centre of Dr. Huxtable's hearthrug. Beside + him stood a very young man, whom I understood to be Wilder, the private + secretary. He was small, nervous, alert, with intelligent, light-blue eyes + and mobile features. It was he who at once, in an incisive and positive + tone, opened the conversation. + </p> + <p> + “I called this morning, Dr. Huxtable, too late to prevent you from + starting for London. I learned that your object was to invite Mr. Sherlock + Holmes to undertake the conduct of this case. His Grace is surprised, Dr. + Huxtable, that you should have taken such a step without consulting him.” + </p> + <p> + “When I learned that the police had failed——” + </p> + <p> + “His Grace is by no means convinced that the police have failed.” + </p> + <p> + “But surely, Mr. Wilder——” + </p> + <p> + “You are well aware, Dr. Huxtable, that his Grace is particularly anxious + to avoid all public scandal. He prefers to take as few people as possible + into his confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “The matter can be easily remedied,” said the brow-beaten doctor; “Mr. + Sherlock Holmes can return to London by the morning train.” + </p> + <p> + “Hardly that, Doctor, hardly that,” said Holmes, in his blandest voice. + “This northern air is invigorating and pleasant, so I propose to spend a + few days upon your moors, and to occupy my mind as best I may. Whether I + have the shelter of your roof or of the village inn is, of course, for you + to decide.” + </p> + <p> + I could see that the unfortunate doctor was in the last stage of + indecision, from which he was rescued by the deep, sonorous voice of the + red-bearded Duke, which boomed out like a dinner-gong. + </p> + <p> + “I agree with Mr. Wilder, Dr. Huxtable, that you would have done wisely to + consult me. But since Mr. Holmes has already been taken into your + confidence, it would indeed be absurd that we should not avail ourselves + of his services. Far from going to the inn, Mr. Holmes, I should be + pleased if you would come and stay with me at Holdernesse Hall.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank your Grace. For the purposes of my investigation I think that it + would be wiser for me to remain at the scene of the mystery.” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you like, Mr. Holmes. Any information which Mr. Wilder or I can + give you is, of course, at your disposal.” + </p> + <p> + “It will probably be necessary for me to see you at the Hall,” said + Holmes. “I would only ask you now, sir, whether you have formed any + explanation in your own mind as to the mysterious disappearance of your + son?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I have not.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me if I allude to that which is painful to you, but I have no + alternative. Do you think that the Duchess had anything to do with the + matter?” + </p> + <p> + The great Minister showed perceptible hesitation. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think so,” he said, at last. + </p> + <p> + “The other most obvious explanation is that the child has been kidnapped + for the purpose of levying ransom. You have not had any demand of the + sort?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “One more question, your Grace. I understand that you wrote to your son + upon the day when this incident occurred.” + </p> + <p> + “No; I wrote upon the day before.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. But he received it on that day?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Was there anything in your letter which might have unbalanced him or + induced him to take such a step?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you post that letter yourself?” + </p> + <p> + The nobleman's reply was interrupted by his secretary, who broke in with + some heat. + </p> + <p> + “His Grace is not in the habit of posting letters himself,” said he. “This + letter was laid with others upon the study table, and I myself put them in + the post-bag.” + </p> + <p> + “You are sure this one was among them?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I observed it.” + </p> + <p> + “How many letters did your Grace write that day?” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty or thirty. I have a large correspondence. But surely this is + somewhat irrelevant?” + </p> + <p> + “Not entirely,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “For my own part,” the Duke continued, “I have advised the police to turn + their attention to the South of France. I have already said that I do not + believe that the Duchess would encourage so monstrous an action, but the + lad had the most wrong-headed opinions, and it is possible that he may + have fled to her, aided and abetted by this German. I think, Dr. Huxtable, + that we will now return to the Hall.” + </p> + <p> + I could see that there were other questions which Holmes would have wished + to put; but the nobleman's abrupt manner showed that the interview was at + an end. It was evident that to his intensely aristocratic nature this + discussion of his intimate family affairs with a stranger was most + abhorrent, and that he feared lest every fresh question would throw a + fiercer light into the discreetly shadowed corners of his ducal history. + </p> + <p> + When the nobleman and his secretary had left, my friend flung himself at + once with characteristic eagerness into the investigation. + </p> + <p> + The boy's chamber was carefully examined, and yielded nothing save the + absolute conviction that it was only through the window that he could have + escaped. The German master's room and effects gave no further clue. In his + case a trailer of ivy had given way under his weight, and we saw by the + light of a lantern the mark on the lawn where his heels had come down. + That one dint in the short green grass was the only material witness left + of this inexplicable nocturnal flight. + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes left the house alone, and only returned after eleven. He + had obtained a large ordnance map of the neighbourhood, and this he + brought into my room, where he laid it out on the bed, and, having + balanced the lamp in the middle of it, he began to smoke over it, and + occasionally to point out objects of interest with the reeking amber of + his pipe. + </p> + <p> + “This case grows upon me, Watson,” said he. “There are decidedly some + points of interest in connection with it. In this early stage I want you + to realize those geographical features which may have a good deal to do + with our investigation. + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + “Look at this map. This dark square is the Priory School. I'll put a pin + in it. Now, this line is the main road. You see that it runs east and west + past the school, and you see also that there is no side road for a mile + either way. If these two folk passed away by road it was THIS road.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly.” + </p> + <p> + “By a singular and happy chance we are able to some extent to check what + passed along this road during the night in question. At this point, where + my pipe is now resting, a country constable was on duty from twelve to + six. It is, as you perceive, the first cross road on the east side. This + man declares that he was not absent from his post for an instant, and he + is positive that neither boy nor man could have gone that way unseen. I + have spoken with this policeman to-night, and he appears to me to be a + perfectly reliable person. That blocks this end. We have now to deal with + the other. There is an inn here, the Red Bull, the landlady of which was + ill. She had sent to Mackleton for a doctor, but he did not arrive until + morning, being absent at another case. The people at the inn were alert + all night, awaiting his coming, and one or other of them seems to have + continually had an eye upon the road. They declare that no one passed. If + their evidence is good, then we are fortunate enough to be able to block + the west, and also to be able to say that the fugitives did NOT use the + road at all.” + </p> + <p> + “But the bicycle?” I objected. + </p> + <p> + “Quite so. We will come to the bicycle presently. To continue our + reasoning: if these people did not go by the road, they must have + traversed the country to the north of the house or to the south of the + house. That is certain. Let us weigh the one against the other. On the + south of the house is, as you perceive, a large district of arable land, + cut up into small fields, with stone walls between them. There, I admit + that a bicycle is impossible. We can dismiss the idea. We turn to the + country on the north. Here there lies a grove of trees, marked as the + 'Ragged Shaw,' and on the farther side stretches a great rolling moor, + Lower Gill Moor, extending for ten miles and sloping gradually upwards. + Here, at one side of this wilderness, is Holdernesse Hall, ten miles by + road, but only six across the moor. It is a peculiarly desolate plain. A + few moor farmers have small holdings, where they rear sheep and cattle. + Except these, the plover and the curlew are the only inhabitants until you + come to the Chesterfield high road. There is a church there, you see, a + few cottages, and an inn. Beyond that the hills become precipitous. Surely + it is here to the north that our quest must lie.” + </p> + <p> + “But the bicycle?” I persisted. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well!” said Holmes, impatiently. “A good cyclist does not need a + high road. The moor is intersected with paths and the moon was at the + full. Halloa! what is this?” + </p> + <p> + There was an agitated knock at the door, and an instant afterwards Dr. + Huxtable was in the room. In his hand he held a blue cricket-cap, with a + white chevron on the peak. + </p> + <p> + “At last we have a clue!” he cried. “Thank Heaven! at last we are on the + dear boy's track! It is his cap.” + </p> + <p> + “Where was it found?” + </p> + <p> + “In the van of the gipsies who camped on the moor. They left on Tuesday. + To-day the police traced them down and examined their caravan. This was + found.” + </p> + <p> + “How do they account for it?” + </p> + <p> + “They shuffled and lied—said that they found it on the moor on + Tuesday morning. They know where he is, the rascals! Thank goodness, they + are all safe under lock and key. Either the fear of the law or the Duke's + purse will certainly get out of them all that they know.” + </p> + <p> + “So far, so good,” said Holmes, when the doctor had at last left the room. + “It at least bears out the theory that it is on the side of the Lower Gill + Moor that we must hope for results. The police have really done nothing + locally, save the arrest of these gipsies. Look here, Watson! There is a + watercourse across the moor. You see it marked here in the map. In some + parts it widens into a morass. This is particularly so in the region + between Holdernesse Hall and the school. It is vain to look elsewhere for + tracks in this dry weather; but at THAT point there is certainly a chance + of some record being left. I will call you early to-morrow morning, and + you and I will try if we can throw some little light upon the mystery.” + </p> + <p> + The day was just breaking when I woke to find the long, thin form of + Holmes by my bedside. He was fully dressed, and had apparently already + been out. + </p> + <p> + “I have done the lawn and the bicycle shed,” said he. “I have also had a + ramble through the Ragged Shaw. Now, Watson, there is cocoa ready in the + next room. I must beg you to hurry, for we have a great day before us.” + </p> + <p> + His eyes shone, and his cheek was flushed with the exhilaration of the + master workman who sees his work lie ready before him. A very different + Holmes, this active, alert man, from the introspective and pallid dreamer + of Baker Street. I felt, as I looked upon that supple figure, alive with + nervous energy, that it was indeed a strenuous day that awaited us. + </p> + <p> + And yet it opened in the blackest disappointment. With high hopes we + struck across the peaty, russet moor, intersected with a thousand sheep + paths, until we came to the broad, light-green belt which marked the + morass between us and Holdernesse. Certainly, if the lad had gone + homewards, he must have passed this, and he could not pass it without + leaving his traces. But no sign of him or the German could be seen. With a + darkening face my friend strode along the margin, eagerly observant of + every muddy stain upon the mossy surface. Sheep-marks there were in + profusion, and at one place, some miles down, cows had left their tracks. + Nothing more. + </p> + <p> + “Check number one,” said Holmes, looking gloomily over the rolling expanse + of the moor. “There is another morass down yonder and a narrow neck + between. Halloa! halloa! halloa! what have we here?” + </p> + <p> + We had come on a small black ribbon of pathway. In the middle of it, + clearly marked on the sodden soil, was the track of a bicycle. + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah!” I cried. “We have it.” + </p> + <p> + But Holmes was shaking his head, and his face was puzzled and expectant + rather than joyous. + </p> + <p> + “A bicycle, certainly, but not THE bicycle,” said he. “I am familiar with + forty-two different impressions left by tyres. This, as you perceive, is a + Dunlop, with a patch upon the outer cover. Heidegger's tyres were + Palmer's, leaving longitudinal stripes. Aveling, the mathematical master, + was sure upon the point. Therefore, it is not Heidegger's track.” + </p> + <p> + “The boy's, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly, if we could prove a bicycle to have been in his possession. But + this we have utterly failed to do. This track, as you perceive, was made + by a rider who was going from the direction of the school.” + </p> + <p> + “Or towards it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, my dear Watson. The more deeply sunk impression is, of course, + the hind wheel, upon which the weight rests. You perceive several places + where it has passed across and obliterated the more shallow mark of the + front one. It was undoubtedly heading away from the school. It may or may + not be connected with our inquiry, but we will follow it backwards before + we go any farther.” + </p> + <p> + We did so, and at the end of a few hundred yards lost the tracks as we + emerged from the boggy portion of the moor. Following the path backwards, + we picked out another spot, where a spring trickled across it. Here, once + again, was the mark of the bicycle, though nearly obliterated by the hoofs + of cows. After that there was no sign, but the path ran right on into + Ragged Shaw, the wood which backed on to the school. From this wood the + cycle must have emerged. Holmes sat down on a boulder and rested his chin + in his hands. I had smoked two cigarettes before he moved. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” said he, at last. “It is, of course, possible that a cunning + man might change the tyre of his bicycle in order to leave unfamiliar + tracks. A criminal who was capable of such a thought is a man whom I + should be proud to do business with. We will leave this question undecided + and hark back to our morass again, for we have left a good deal + unexplored.” + </p> + <p> + We continued our systematic survey of the edge of the sodden portion of + the moor, and soon our perseverance was gloriously rewarded. Right across + the lower part of the bog lay a miry path. Holmes gave a cry of delight as + he approached it. An impression like a fine bundle of telegraph wires ran + down the centre of it. It was the Palmer tyre. + </p> + <p> + “Here is Herr Heidegger, sure enough!” cried Holmes, exultantly. “My + reasoning seems to have been pretty sound, Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “I congratulate you.” + </p> + <p> + “But we have a long way still to go. Kindly walk clear of the path. Now + let us follow the trail. I fear that it will not lead very far.” + </p> + <p> + We found, however, as we advanced that this portion of the moor is + intersected with soft patches, and, though we frequently lost sight of the + track, we always succeeded in picking it up once more. + </p> + <p> + “Do you observe,” said Holmes, “that the rider is now undoubtedly forcing + the pace? There can be no doubt of it. Look at this impression, where you + get both tyres clear. The one is as deep as the other. That can only mean + that the rider is throwing his weight on to the handle-bar, as a man does + when he is sprinting. By Jove! he has had a fall.” + </p> + <p> + There was a broad, irregular smudge covering some yards of the track. Then + there were a few footmarks, and the tyre reappeared once more. + </p> + <p> + “A side-slip,” I suggested. + </p> + <p> + Holmes held up a crumpled branch of flowering gorse. To my horror I + perceived that the yellow blossoms were all dabbled with crimson. On the + path, too, and among the heather were dark stains of clotted blood. + </p> + <p> + “Bad!” said Holmes. “Bad! Stand clear, Watson! Not an unnecessary + footstep! What do I read here? He fell wounded, he stood up, he remounted, + he proceeded. But there is no other track. Cattle on this side path. He + was surely not gored by a bull? Impossible! But I see no traces of anyone + else. We must push on, Watson. Surely with stains as well as the track to + guide us he cannot escape us now.” + </p> + <p> + Our search was not a very long one. The tracks of the tyre began to curve + fantastically upon the wet and shining path. Suddenly, as I looked ahead, + the gleam of metal caught my eye from amid the thick gorse bushes. Out of + them we dragged a bicycle, Palmer-tyred, one pedal bent, and the whole + front of it horribly smeared and slobbered with blood. On the other side + of the bushes a shoe was projecting. We ran round, and there lay the + unfortunate rider. He was a tall man, full bearded, with spectacles, one + glass of which had been knocked out. The cause of his death was a + frightful blow upon the head, which had crushed in part of his skull. That + he could have gone on after receiving such an injury said much for the + vitality and courage of the man. He wore shoes, but no socks, and his open + coat disclosed a night-shirt beneath it. It was undoubtedly the German + master. + </p> + <p> + Holmes turned the body over reverently, and examined it with great + attention. He then sat in deep thought for a time, and I could see by his + ruffled brow that this grim discovery had not, in his opinion, advanced us + much in our inquiry. + </p> + <p> + “It is a little difficult to know what to do, Watson,” said he, at last. + “My own inclinations are to push this inquiry on, for we have already lost + so much time that we cannot afford to waste another hour. On the other + hand, we are bound to inform the police of the discovery, and to see that + this poor fellow's body is looked after.” + </p> + <p> + “I could take a note back.” + </p> + <p> + “But I need your company and assistance. Wait a bit! There is a fellow + cutting peat up yonder. Bring him over here, and he will guide the + police.” + </p> + <p> + I brought the peasant across, and Holmes dispatched the frightened man + with a note to Dr. Huxtable. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Watson,” said he, “we have picked up two clues this morning. One is + the bicycle with the Palmer tyre, and we see what that has led to. The + other is the bicycle with the patched Dunlop. Before we start to + investigate that, let us try to realize what we DO know so as to make the + most of it, and to separate the essential from the accidental.” + </p> + <p> + “First of all I wish to impress upon you that the boy certainly left of + his own free will. He got down from his window and he went off, either + alone or with someone. That is sure.” + </p> + <p> + I assented. + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, let us turn to this unfortunate German master. The boy was + fully dressed when he fled. Therefore, he foresaw what he would do. But + the German went without his socks. He certainly acted on very short + notice.” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did he go? Because, from his bedroom window, he saw the flight of the + boy. Because he wished to overtake him and bring him back. He seized his + bicycle, pursued the lad, and in pursuing him met his death.” + </p> + <p> + “So it would seem.” + </p> + <p> + “Now I come to the critical part of my argument. The natural action of a + man in pursuing a little boy would be to run after him. He would know that + he could overtake him. But the German does not do so. He turns to his + bicycle. I am told that he was an excellent cyclist. He would not do this + if he did not see that the boy had some swift means of escape.” + </p> + <p> + “The other bicycle.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us continue our reconstruction. He meets his death five miles from + the school—not by a bullet, mark you, which even a lad might + conceivably discharge, but by a savage blow dealt by a vigorous arm. The + lad, then, HAD a companion in his flight. And the flight was a swift one, + since it took five miles before an expert cyclist could overtake them. Yet + we survey the ground round the scene of the tragedy. What do we find? A + few cattle tracks, nothing more. I took a wide sweep round, and there is + no path within fifty yards. Another cyclist could have had nothing to do + with the actual murder. Nor were there any human footmarks.” + </p> + <p> + “Holmes,” I cried, “this is impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “Admirable!” he said. “A most illuminating remark. It IS impossible as I + state it, and therefore I must in some respect have stated it wrong. Yet + you saw for yourself. Can you suggest any fallacy?” + </p> + <p> + “He could not have fractured his skull in a fall?” + </p> + <p> + “In a morass, Watson?” + </p> + <p> + “I am at my wit's end.” + </p> + <p> + “Tut, tut; we have solved some worse problems. At least we have plenty of + material, if we can only use it. Come, then, and, having exhausted the + Palmer, let us see what the Dunlop with the patched cover has to offer + us.” + </p> + <p> + We picked up the track and followed it onwards for some distance; but soon + the moor rose into a long, heather-tufted curve, and we left the + watercourse behind us. No further help from tracks could be hoped for. At + the spot where we saw the last of the Dunlop tyre it might equally have + led to Holdernesse Hall, the stately towers of which rose some miles to + our left, or to a low, grey village which lay in front of us, and marked + the position of the Chesterfield high road. + </p> + <p> + As we approached the forbidding and squalid inn, with the sign of a + game-cock above the door, Holmes gave a sudden groan and clutched me by + the shoulder to save himself from falling. He had had one of those violent + strains of the ankle which leave a man helpless. With difficulty he limped + up to the door, where a squat, dark, elderly man was smoking a black clay + pipe. + </p> + <p> + “How are you, Mr. Reuben Hayes?” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, and how do you get my name so pat?” the countryman answered, + with a suspicious flash of a pair of cunning eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it's printed on the board above your head. It's easy to see a man + who is master of his own house. I suppose you haven't such a thing as a + carriage in your stables?” + </p> + <p> + “No; I have not.” + </p> + <p> + “I can hardly put my foot to the ground.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't put it to the ground.” + </p> + <p> + “But I can't walk.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, hop.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Reuben Hayes's manner was far from gracious, but Holmes took it with + admirable good-humour. + </p> + <p> + “Look here, my man,” said he. “This is really rather an awkward fix for + me. I don't mind how I get on.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither do I,” said the morose landlord. + </p> + <p> + “The matter is very important. I would offer you a sovereign for the use + of a bicycle.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord pricked up his ears. + </p> + <p> + “Where do you want to go?” + </p> + <p> + “To Holdernesse Hall.” + </p> + <p> + “Pals of the Dook, I suppose?” said the landlord, surveying our + mud-stained garments with ironical eyes. + </p> + <p> + Holmes laughed good-naturedly. + </p> + <p> + “He'll be glad to see us, anyhow.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because we bring him news of his lost son.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord gave a very visible start. + </p> + <p> + “What, you're on his track?” + </p> + <p> + “He has been heard of in Liverpool. They expect to get him every hour.” + </p> + <p> + Again a swift change passed over the heavy, unshaven face. His manner was + suddenly genial. + </p> + <p> + “I've less reason to wish the Dook well than most men,” said he, “for I + was his head coachman once, and cruel bad he treated me. It was him that + sacked me without a character on the word of a lying corn-chandler. But + I'm glad to hear that the young lord was heard of in Liverpool, and I'll + help you to take the news to the Hall.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said Holmes. “We'll have some food first. Then you can bring + round the bicycle.” + </p> + <p> + “I haven't got a bicycle.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes held up a sovereign. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you, man, that I haven't got one. I'll let you have two horses as + far as the Hall.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” said Holmes, “we'll talk about it when we've had something + to eat.” + </p> + <p> + When we were left alone in the stone-flagged kitchen it was astonishing + how rapidly that sprained ankle recovered. It was nearly nightfall, and we + had eaten nothing since early morning, so that we spent some time over our + meal. Holmes was lost in thought, and once or twice he walked over to the + window and stared earnestly out. It opened on to a squalid courtyard. In + the far corner was a smithy, where a grimy lad was at work. On the other + side were the stables. Holmes had sat down again after one of these + excursions, when he suddenly sprang out of his chair with a loud + exclamation. + </p> + <p> + “By Heaven, Watson, I believe that I've got it!” he cried. “Yes, yes, it + must be so. Watson, do you remember seeing any cow-tracks to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, several.” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, everywhere. They were at the morass, and again on the path, and + again near where poor Heidegger met his death.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Well, now, Watson, how many cows did you see on the moor?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't remember seeing any.” + </p> + <p> + “Strange, Watson, that we should see tracks all along our line, but never + a cow on the whole moor; very strange, Watson, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is strange.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Watson, make an effort; throw your mind back! Can you see those + tracks upon the path?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I can.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you recall that the tracks were sometimes like that, Watson”—he + arranged a number of bread-crumbs in this fashion—:::::—“and + sometimes like this”—:.:.:.:. —“and occasionally like this”—. + '. '. '. “Can you remember that?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I cannot.” + </p> + <p> + “But I can. I could swear to it. However, we will go back at our leisure + and verify it. What a blind beetle I have been not to draw my conclusion!” + </p> + <p> + “And what is your conclusion?” + </p> + <p> + “Only that it is a remarkable cow which walks, canters, and gallops. By + George, Watson, it was no brain of a country publican that thought out + such a blind as that! The coast seems to be clear, save for that lad in + the smithy. Let us slip out and see what we can see.” + </p> + <p> + There were two rough-haired, unkempt horses in the tumble-down stable. + Holmes raised the hind leg of one of them and laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + “Old shoes, but newly shod—old shoes, but new nails. This case + deserves to be a classic. Let us go across to the smithy.” + </p> + <p> + The lad continued his work without regarding us. I saw Holmes's eye + darting to right and left among the litter of iron and wood which was + scattered about the floor. Suddenly, however, we heard a step behind us, + and there was the landlord, his heavy eyebrows drawn over his savage eyes, + his swarthy features convulsed with passion. He held a short, metal-headed + stick in his hand, and he advanced in so menacing a fashion that I was + right glad to feel the revolver in my pocket. + </p> + <p> + “You infernal spies!” the man cried. “What are you doing there?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Reuben Hayes,” said Holmes, coolly, “one might think that you + were afraid of our finding something out.” + </p> + <p> + The man mastered himself with a violent effort, and his grim mouth + loosened into a false laugh, which was more menacing than his frown. + </p> + <p> + “You're welcome to all you can find out in my smithy,” said he. “But look + here, mister, I don't care for folk poking about my place without my + leave, so the sooner you pay your score and get out of this the better I + shall be pleased.” + </p> + <p> + “All right, Mr. Hayes—no harm meant,” said Holmes. “We have been + having a look at your horses, but I think I'll walk after all. It's not + far, I believe.” + </p> + <p> + “Not more than two miles to the Hall gates. That's the road to the left.” + He watched us with sullen eyes until we had left his premises. + </p> + <p> + We did not go very far along the road, for Holmes stopped the instant that + the curve hid us from the landlord's view. + </p> + <p> + “We were warm, as the children say, at that inn,” said he. “I seem to grow + colder every step that I take away from it. No, no; I can't possibly leave + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I am convinced,” said I, “that this Reuben Hayes knows all about it. A + more self-evident villain I never saw.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he impressed you in that way, did he? There are the horses, there is + the smithy. Yes, it is an interesting place, this Fighting Cock. I think + we shall have another look at it in an unobtrusive way.” + </p> + <p> + A long, sloping hillside, dotted with grey limestone boulders, stretched + behind us. We had turned off the road, and were making our way up the + hill, when, looking in the direction of Holdernesse Hall, I saw a cyclist + coming swiftly along. + </p> + <p> + “Get down, Watson!” cried Holmes, with a heavy hand upon my shoulder. We + had hardly sunk from view when the man flew past us on the road. Amid a + rolling cloud of dust I caught a glimpse of a pale, agitated face—a + face with horror in every lineament, the mouth open, the eyes staring + wildly in front. It was like some strange caricature of the dapper James + Wilder whom we had seen the night before. + </p> + <p> + “The Duke's secretary!” cried Holmes. “Come, Watson, let us see what he + does.” + </p> + <p> + We scrambled from rock to rock until in a few moments we had made our way + to a point from which we could see the front door of the inn. Wilder's + bicycle was leaning against the wall beside it. No one was moving about + the house, nor could we catch a glimpse of any faces at the windows. + Slowly the twilight crept down as the sun sank behind the high towers of + Holdernesse Hall. Then in the gloom we saw the two side-lamps of a trap + light up in the stable yard of the inn, and shortly afterwards heard the + rattle of hoofs, as it wheeled out into the road and tore off at a furious + pace in the direction of Chesterfield. + </p> + <p> + “What do you make of that, Watson?” Holmes whispered. + </p> + <p> + “It looks like a flight.” + </p> + <p> + “A single man in a dog-cart, so far as I could see. Well, it certainly was + not Mr. James Wilder, for there he is at the door.” + </p> + <p> + A red square of light had sprung out of the darkness. In the middle of it + was the black figure of the secretary, his head advanced, peering out into + the night. It was evident that he was expecting someone. Then at last + there were steps in the road, a second figure was visible for an instant + against the light, the door shut, and all was black once more. Five + minutes later a lamp was lit in a room upon the first floor. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to be a curious class of custom that is done by the Fighting + Cock,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “The bar is on the other side.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so. These are what one may call the private guests. Now, what in + the world is Mr. James Wilder doing in that den at this hour of night, and + who is the companion who comes to meet him there? Come, Watson, we must + really take a risk and try to investigate this a little more closely.” + </p> + <p> + Together we stole down to the road and crept across to the door of the + inn. The bicycle still leaned against the wall. Holmes struck a match and + held it to the back wheel, and I heard him chuckle as the light fell upon + a patched Dunlop tyre. Up above us was the lighted window. + </p> + <p> + “I must have a peep through that, Watson. If you bend your back and + support yourself upon the wall, I think that I can manage.” + </p> + <p> + An instant later his feet were on my shoulders. But he was hardly up + before he was down again. + </p> + <p> + “Come, my friend,” said he, “our day's work has been quite long enough. I + think that we have gathered all that we can. It's a long walk to the + school, and the sooner we get started the better.” + </p> + <p> + He hardly opened his lips during that weary trudge across the moor, nor + would he enter the school when he reached it, but went on to Mackleton + Station, whence he could send some telegrams. Late at night I heard him + consoling Dr. Huxtable, prostrated by the tragedy of his master's death, + and later still he entered my room as alert and vigorous as he had been + when he started in the morning. “All goes well, my friend,” said he. “I + promise that before to-morrow evening we shall have reached the solution + of the mystery.” + </p> + <p> + At eleven o'clock next morning my friend and I were walking up the famous + yew avenue of Holdernesse Hall. We were ushered through the magnificent + Elizabethan doorway and into his Grace's study. There we found Mr. James + Wilder, demure and courtly, but with some trace of that wild terror of the + night before still lurking in his furtive eyes and in his twitching + features. + </p> + <p> + “You have come to see his Grace? I am sorry; but the fact is that the Duke + is far from well. He has been very much upset by the tragic news. We + received a telegram from Dr. Huxtable yesterday afternoon, which told us + of your discovery.” + </p> + <p> + “I must see the Duke, Mr. Wilder.” + </p> + <p> + “But he is in his room.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I must go to his room.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe he is in his bed.” + </p> + <p> + “I will see him there.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes's cold and inexorable manner showed the secretary that it was + useless to argue with him. + </p> + <p> + “Very good, Mr. Holmes; I will tell him that you are here.” + </p> + <p> + After half an hour's delay the great nobleman appeared. His face was more + cadaverous than ever, his shoulders had rounded, and he seemed to me to be + an altogether older man than he had been the morning before. He greeted us + with a stately courtesy and seated himself at his desk, his red beard + streaming down on to the table. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes?” said he. + </p> + <p> + But my friend's eyes were fixed upon the secretary, who stood by his + master's chair. + </p> + <p> + “I think, your Grace, that I could speak more freely in Mr. Wilder's + absence.” + </p> + <p> + The man turned a shade paler and cast a malignant glance at Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “If your Grace wishes——” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; you had better go. Now, Mr. Holmes, what have you to say?” + </p> + <p> + My friend waited until the door had closed behind the retreating + secretary. + </p> + <p> + “The fact is, your Grace,” said he, “that my colleague, Dr. Watson, and + myself had an assurance from Dr. Huxtable that a reward had been offered + in this case. I should like to have this confirmed from your own lips.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “It amounted, if I am correctly informed, to five thousand pounds to + anyone who will tell you where your son is?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly.” + </p> + <p> + “And another thousand to the man who will name the person or persons who + keep him in custody?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly.” + </p> + <p> + “Under the latter heading is included, no doubt, not only those who may + have taken him away, but also those who conspire to keep him in his + present position?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,” cried the Duke, impatiently. “If you do your work well, Mr. + Sherlock Holmes, you will have no reason to complain of niggardly + treatment.” + </p> + <p> + My friend rubbed his thin hands together with an appearance of avidity + which was a surprise to me, who knew his frugal tastes. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy that I see your Grace's cheque-book upon the table,” said he. “I + should be glad if you would make me out a cheque for six thousand pounds. + It would be as well, perhaps, for you to cross it. The Capital and + Counties Bank, Oxford Street branch, are my agents.” + </p> + <p> + His Grace sat very stern and upright in his chair, and looked stonily at + my friend. + </p> + <p> + “Is this a joke, Mr. Holmes? It is hardly a subject for pleasantry.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, your Grace. I was never more earnest in my life.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that I have earned the reward. I know where your son is, and I + know some, at least, of those who are holding him.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke's beard had turned more aggressively red than ever against his + ghastly white face. + </p> + <p> + “Where is he?” he gasped. + </p> + <p> + “He is, or was last night, at the Fighting Cock Inn, about two miles from + your park gate.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke fell back in his chair. + </p> + <p> + “And whom do you accuse?” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes's answer was an astounding one. He stepped swiftly forward + and touched the Duke upon the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “I accuse YOU,” said he. “And now, your Grace, I'll trouble you for that + cheque.” + </p> + <p> + Never shall I forget the Duke's appearance as he sprang up and clawed with + his hands like one who is sinking into an abyss. Then, with an + extraordinary effort of aristocratic self-command, he sat down and sank + his face in his hands. It was some minutes before he spoke. + </p> + <p> + “How much do you know?” he asked at last, without raising his head. + </p> + <p> + “I saw you together last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Does anyone else besides your friend know?” + </p> + <p> + “I have spoken to no one.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke took a pen in his quivering fingers and opened his cheque-book. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be as good as my word, Mr. Holmes. I am about to write your + cheque, however unwelcome the information which you have gained may be to + me. When the offer was first made I little thought the turn which events + might take. But you and your friend are men of discretion, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “I hardly understand your Grace.” + </p> + <p> + “I must put it plainly, Mr. Holmes. If only you two know of this incident, + there is no reason why it should go any farther. I think twelve thousand + pounds is the sum that I owe you, is it not?” + </p> + <p> + But Holmes smiled and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I fear, your Grace, that matters can hardly be arranged so easily. There + is the death of this schoolmaster to be accounted for.” + </p> + <p> + “But James knew nothing of that. You cannot hold him responsible for that. + It was the work of this brutal ruffian whom he had the misfortune to + employ.” + </p> + <p> + “I must take the view, your Grace, that when a man embarks upon a crime he + is morally guilty of any other crime which may spring from it.” + </p> + <p> + “Morally, Mr. Holmes. No doubt you are right. But surely not in the eyes + of the law. A man cannot be condemned for a murder at which he was not + present, and which he loathes and abhors as much as you do. The instant + that he heard of it he made a complete confession to me, so filled was he + with horror and remorse. He lost not an hour in breaking entirely with the + murderer. Oh, Mr. Holmes, you must save him—you must save him! I + tell you that you must save him!” The Duke had dropped the last attempt at + self-command, and was pacing the room with a convulsed face and with his + clenched hands raving in the air. At last he mastered himself and sat down + once more at his desk. “I appreciate your conduct in coming here before + you spoke to anyone else,” said he. “At least, we may take counsel how far + we can minimize this hideous scandal.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly,” said Holmes. “I think, your Grace, that this can only be done + by absolute and complete frankness between us. I am disposed to help your + Grace to the best of my ability; but in order to do so I must understand + to the last detail how the matter stands. I realize that your words + applied to Mr. James Wilder, and that he is not the murderer.” + </p> + <p> + “No; the murderer has escaped.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes smiled demurely. + </p> + <p> + “Your Grace can hardly have heard of any small reputation which I possess, + or you would not imagine that it is so easy to escape me. Mr. Reuben Hayes + was arrested at Chesterfield on my information at eleven o'clock last + night. I had a telegram from the head of the local police before I left + the school this morning.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke leaned back in his chair and stared with amazement at my friend. + </p> + <p> + “You seem to have powers that are hardly human,” said he. “So Reuben Hayes + is taken? I am right glad to hear it, if it will not react upon the fate + of James.” + </p> + <p> + “Your secretary?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; my son.” + </p> + <p> + It was Holmes's turn to look astonished. + </p> + <p> + “I confess that this is entirely new to me, your Grace. I must beg you to + be more explicit.” + </p> + <p> + “I will conceal nothing from you. I agree with you that complete + frankness, however painful it may be to me, is the best policy in this + desperate situation to which James's folly and jealousy have reduced us. + When I was a very young man, Mr. Holmes, I loved with such a love as comes + only once in a lifetime. I offered the lady marriage, but she refused it + on the grounds that such a match might mar my career. Had she lived I + would certainly never have married anyone else. She died, and left this + one child, whom for her sake I have cherished and cared for. I could not + acknowledge the paternity to the world; but I gave him the best of + educations, and since he came to manhood I have kept him near my person. + He surprised my secret, and has presumed ever since upon the claim which + he has upon me and upon his power of provoking a scandal, which would be + abhorrent to me. His presence had something to do with the unhappy issue + of my marriage. Above all, he hated my young legitimate heir from the + first with a persistent hatred. You may well ask me why, under these + circumstances, I still kept James under my roof. I answer that it was + because I could see his mother's face in his, and that for her dear sake + there was no end to my long-suffering. All her pretty ways, too—there + was not one of them which he could not suggest and bring back to my + memory. I COULD not send him away. But I feared so much lest he should do + Arthur—that is, Lord Saltire—a mischief that I dispatched him + for safety to Dr. Huxtable's school. + </p> + <p> + “James came into contact with this fellow Hayes because the man was a + tenant of mine, and James acted as agent. The fellow was a rascal from the + beginning; but in some extraordinary way James became intimate with him. + He had always a taste for low company. When James determined to kidnap + Lord Saltire it was of this man's service that he availed himself. You + remember that I wrote to Arthur upon that last day. Well, James opened the + letter and inserted a note asking Arthur to meet him in a little wood + called the Ragged Shaw, which is near to the school. He used the Duchess's + name, and in that way got the boy to come. That evening James bicycled + over—I am telling you what he has himself confessed to me—and + he told Arthur, whom he met in the wood, that his mother longed to see + him, that she was awaiting him on the moor, and that if he would come back + into the wood at midnight he would find a man with a horse, who would take + him to her. Poor Arthur fell into the trap. He came to the appointment and + found this fellow Hayes with a led pony. Arthur mounted, and they set off + together. It appears—though this James only heard yesterday—that + they were pursued, that Hayes struck the pursuer with his stick, and that + the man died of his injuries. Hayes brought Arthur to his public-house, + the Fighting Cock, where he was confined in an upper room, under the care + of Mrs. Hayes, who is a kindly woman, but entirely under the control of + her brutal husband. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes, that was the state of affairs when I first saw you two + days ago. I had no more idea of the truth than you. You will ask me what + was James's motive in doing such a deed. I answer that there was a great + deal which was unreasoning and fanatical in the hatred which he bore my + heir. In his view he should himself have been heir of all my estates, and + he deeply resented those social laws which made it impossible. At the same + time he had a definite motive also. He was eager that I should break the + entail, and he was of opinion that it lay in my power to do so. He + intended to make a bargain with me—to restore Arthur if I would + break the entail, and so make it possible for the estate to be left to him + by will. He knew well that I should never willingly invoke the aid of the + police against him. I say that he would have proposed such a bargain to + me, but he did not actually do so, for events moved too quickly for him, + and he had not time to put his plans into practice. + </p> + <p> + “What brought all his wicked scheme to wreck was your discovery of this + man Heidegger's dead body. James was seized with horror at the news. It + came to us yesterday as we sat together in this study. Dr. Huxtable had + sent a telegram. James was so overwhelmed with grief and agitation that my + suspicions, which had never been entirely absent, rose instantly to a + certainty, and I taxed him with the deed. He made a complete voluntary + confession. Then he implored me to keep his secret for three days longer, + so as to give his wretched accomplice a chance of saving his guilty life. + I yielded—as I have always yielded—to his prayers, and + instantly James hurried off to the Fighting Cock to warn Hayes and give + him the means of flight. I could not go there by daylight without + provoking comment, but as soon as night fell I hurried off to see my dear + Arthur. I found him safe and well, but horrified beyond expression by the + dreadful deed he had witnessed. In deference to my promise, and much + against my will, I consented to leave him there for three days under the + charge of Mrs. Hayes, since it was evident that it was impossible to + inform the police where he was without telling them also who was the + murderer, and I could not see how that murderer could be punished without + ruin to my unfortunate James. You asked for frankness, Mr. Holmes, and I + have taken you at your word, for I have now told you everything without an + attempt at circumlocution or concealment. Do you in turn be as frank with + me.” + </p> + <p> + “I will,” said Holmes. “In the first place, your Grace, I am bound to tell + you that you have placed yourself in a most serious position in the eyes + of the law. You have condoned a felony and you have aided the escape of a + murderer; for I cannot doubt that any money which was taken by James + Wilder to aid his accomplice in his flight came from your Grace's purse.” + </p> + <p> + The Duke bowed his assent. + </p> + <p> + “This is indeed a most serious matter. Even more culpable in my opinion, + your Grace, is your attitude towards your younger son. You leave him in + this den for three days.” + </p> + <p> + “Under solemn promises——” + </p> + <p> + “What are promises to such people as these? You have no guarantee that he + will not be spirited away again. To humour your guilty elder son you have + exposed your innocent younger son to imminent and unnecessary danger. It + was a most unjustifiable action.” + </p> + <p> + The proud lord of Holdernesse was not accustomed to be so rated in his own + ducal hall. The blood flushed into his high forehead, but his conscience + held him dumb. + </p> + <p> + “I will help you, but on one condition only. It is that you ring for the + footman and let me give such orders as I like.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word the Duke pressed the electric bell. A servant entered. + </p> + <p> + “You will be glad to hear,” said Holmes, “that your young master is found. + It is the Duke's desire that the carriage shall go at once to the Fighting + Cock Inn to bring Lord Saltire home. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said Holmes, when the rejoicing lackey had disappeared, “having + secured the future, we can afford to be more lenient with the past. I am + not in an official position, and there is no reason, so long as the ends + of justice are served, why I should disclose all that I know. As to Hayes + I say nothing. The gallows awaits him, and I would do nothing to save him + from it. What he will divulge I cannot tell, but I have no doubt that your + Grace could make him understand that it is to his interest to be silent. + From the police point of view he will have kidnapped the boy for the + purpose of ransom. If they do not themselves find it out I see no reason + why I should prompt them to take a broader point of view. I would warn + your Grace, however, that the continued presence of Mr. James Wilder in + your household can only lead to misfortune.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand that, Mr. Holmes, and it is already settled that he shall + leave me for ever and go to seek his fortune in Australia.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case, your Grace, since you have yourself stated that any + unhappiness in your married life was caused by his presence, I would + suggest that you make such amends as you can to the Duchess, and that you + try to resume those relations which have been so unhappily interrupted.” + </p> + <p> + “That also I have arranged, Mr. Holmes. I wrote to the Duchess this + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said Holmes, rising, “I think that my friend and I can + congratulate ourselves upon several most happy results from our little + visit to the North. There is one other small point upon which I desire + some light. This fellow Hayes had shod his horses with shoes which + counterfeited the tracks of cows. Was it from Mr. Wilder that he learned + so extraordinary a device?” + </p> + <p> + The Duke stood in thought for a moment, with a look of intense surprise on + his face. Then he opened a door and showed us into a large room furnished + as a museum. He led the way to a glass case in a corner, and pointed to + the inscription. + </p> + <p> + “These shoes,” it ran, “were dug up in the moat of Holdernesse Hall. They + are for the use of horses; but they are shaped below with a cloven foot of + iron, so as to throw pursuers off the track. They are supposed to have + belonged to some of the marauding Barons of Holdernesse in the Middle + Ages.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes opened the case, and moistening his finger he passed it along the + shoe. A thin film of recent mud was left upon his skin. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said he, as he replaced the glass. “It is the second most + interesting object that I have seen in the North.” + </p> + <p> + “And the first?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes folded up his cheque and placed it carefully in his note-book. “I + am a poor man,” said he, as he patted it affectionately and thrust it into + the depths of his inner pocket. + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 27 MARCH, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VI.—The Adventure of Black Peter. + </h2> + <p> + I HAVE never known my friend to be in better form, both mental and + physical, than in the year '95. His increasing fame had brought with it an + immense practice, and I should be guilty of an indiscretion if I were even + to hint at the identity of some of the illustrious clients who crossed our + humble threshold in Baker Street. Holmes, however, like all great artists, + lived for his art's sake, and, save in the case of the Duke of + Holdernesse, I have seldom known him claim any large reward for his + inestimable services. So unworldly was he—or so capricious—that + he frequently refused his help to the powerful and wealthy where the + problem made no appeal to his sympathies, while he would devote weeks of + most intense application to the affairs of some humble client whose case + presented those strange and dramatic qualities which appealed to his + imagination and challenged his ingenuity. + </p> + <p> + In this memorable year '95 a curious and incongruous succession of cases + had engaged his attention, ranging from his famous investigation of the + sudden death of Cardinal Tosca—an inquiry which was carried out by + him at the express desire of His Holiness the Pope—down to his + arrest of Wilson, the notorious canary-trainer, which removed a + plague-spot from the East-End of London. Close on the heels of these two + famous cases came the tragedy of Woodman's Lee, and the very obscure + circumstances which surrounded the death of Captain Peter Carey. No record + of the doings of Mr. Sherlock Holmes would be complete which did not + include some account of this very unusual affair. + </p> + <p> + During the first week of July my friend had been absent so often and so + long from our lodgings that I knew he had something on hand. The fact that + several rough-looking men called during that time and inquired for Captain + Basil made me understand that Holmes was working somewhere under one of + the numerous disguises and names with which he concealed his own + formidable identity. He had at least five small refuges in different parts + of London in which he was able to change his personality. He said nothing + of his business to me, and it was not my habit to force a confidence. The + first positive sign which he gave me of the direction which his + investigation was taking was an extraordinary one. He had gone out before + breakfast, and I had sat down to mine, when he strode into the room, his + hat upon his head and a huge barbed-headed spear tucked like an umbrella + under his arm. + </p> + <p> + “Good gracious, Holmes!” I cried. “You don't mean to say that you have + been walking about London with that thing?” + </p> + <p> + “I drove to the butcher's and back.” + </p> + <p> + “The butcher's?” + </p> + <p> + “And I return with an excellent appetite. There can be no question, my + dear Watson, of the value of exercise before breakfast. But I am prepared + to bet that you will not guess the form that my exercise has taken.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not attempt it.” + </p> + <p> + He chuckled as he poured out the coffee. + </p> + <p> + “If you could have looked into Allardyce's back shop you would have seen a + dead pig swung from a hook in the ceiling, and a gentleman in his + shirt-sleeves furiously stabbing at it with this weapon. I was that + energetic person, and I have satisfied myself that by no exertion of my + strength can I transfix the pig with a single blow. Perhaps you would care + to try?” + </p> + <p> + “Not for worlds. But why were you doing this?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it seemed to me to have an indirect bearing upon the mystery of + Woodman's Lee. Ah, Hopkins, I got your wire last night, and I have been + expecting you. Come and join us.” + </p> + <p> + Our visitor was an exceedingly alert man, thirty years of age, dressed in + a quiet tweed suit, but retaining the erect bearing of one who was + accustomed to official uniform. I recognised him at once as Stanley + Hopkins, a young police inspector for whose future Holmes had high hopes, + while he in turn professed the admiration and respect of a pupil for the + scientific methods of the famous amateur. Hopkins's brow was clouded, and + he sat down with an air of deep dejection. + </p> + <p> + “No, thank you, sir. I breakfasted before I came round. I spent the night + in town, for I came up yesterday to report.” + </p> + <p> + “And what had you to report?” + </p> + <p> + “Failure, sir; absolute failure.” + </p> + <p> + “You have made no progress?” + </p> + <p> + “None.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! I must have a look at the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish to heavens that you would, Mr. Holmes. It's my first big chance, + and I am at my wit's end. For goodness' sake come down and lend me a + hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, it just happens that I have already read all the available + evidence, including the report of the inquest, with some care. By the way, + what do you make of that tobacco-pouch found on the scene of the crime? Is + there no clue there?” + </p> + <p> + Hopkins looked surprised. + </p> + <p> + “It was the man's own pouch, sir. His initials were inside it. And it was + of seal-skin—and he an old sealer.” + </p> + <p> + “But he had no pipe.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, we could find no pipe; indeed, he smoked very little. And yet he + might have kept some tobacco for his friends.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt. I only mention it because if I had been handling the case I + should have been inclined to make that the starting-point of my + investigation. However, my friend Dr. Watson knows nothing of this matter, + and I should be none the worse for hearing the sequence of events once + more. Just give us some short sketch of the essentials.” + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins drew a slip of paper from his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “I have a few dates here which will give you the career of the dead man, + Captain Peter Carey. He was born in '45—fifty years of age. He was a + most daring and successful seal and whale fisher. In 1883 he commanded the + steam sealer SEA UNICORN, of Dundee. He had then had several successful + voyages in succession, and in the following year, 1884, he retired. After + that he travelled for some years, and finally he bought a small place + called Woodman's Lee, near Forest Row, in Sussex. There he has lived for + six years, and there he died just a week ago to-day. + </p> + <p> + “There were some most singular points about the man. In ordinary life he + was a strict Puritan—a silent, gloomy fellow. His household + consisted of his wife, his daughter, aged twenty, and two female servants. + These last were continually changing, for it was never a very cheery + situation, and sometimes it became past all bearing. The man was an + intermittent drunkard, and when he had the fit on him he was a perfect + fiend. He has been known to drive his wife and his daughter out of doors + in the middle of the night, and flog them through the park until the whole + village outside the gates was aroused by their screams. + </p> + <p> + “He was summoned once for a savage assault upon the old vicar, who had + called upon him to remonstrate with him upon his conduct. In short, Mr. + Holmes, you would go far before you found a more dangerous man than Peter + Carey, and I have heard that he bore the same character when he commanded + his ship. He was known in the trade as Black Peter, and the name was given + him, not only on account of his swarthy features and the colour of his + huge beard, but for the humours which were the terror of all around him. I + need not say that he was loathed and avoided by every one of his + neighbours, and that I have not heard one single word of sorrow about his + terrible end. + </p> + <p> + “You must have read in the account of the inquest about the man's cabin, + Mr. Holmes; but perhaps your friend here has not heard of it. He had built + himself a wooden outhouse—he always called it 'the cabin'—a + few hundred yards from his house, and it was here that he slept every + night. It was a little, single-roomed hut, sixteen feet by ten. He kept + the key in his pocket, made his own bed, cleaned it himself, and allowed + no other foot to cross the threshold. There are small windows on each + side, which were covered by curtains and never opened. One of these + windows was turned towards the high road, and when the light burned in it + at night the folk used to point it out to each other and wonder what Black + Peter was doing in there. That's the window, Mr. Holmes, which gave us one + of the few bits of positive evidence that came out at the inquest. + </p> + <p> + “You remember that a stonemason, named Slater, walking from Forest Row + about one o'clock in the morning—two days before the murder—stopped + as he passed the grounds and looked at the square of light still shining + among the trees. He swears that the shadow of a man's head turned sideways + was clearly visible on the blind, and that this shadow was certainly not + that of Peter Carey, whom he knew well. It was that of a bearded man, but + the beard was short and bristled forwards in a way very different from + that of the captain. So he says, but he had been two hours in the + public-house, and it is some distance from the road to the window. + Besides, this refers to the Monday, and the crime was done upon the + Wednesday. + </p> + <p> + “On the Tuesday Peter Carey was in one of his blackest moods, flushed with + drink and as savage as a dangerous wild beast. He roamed about the house, + and the women ran for it when they heard him coming. Late in the evening + he went down to his own hut. About two o'clock the following morning his + daughter, who slept with her window open, heard a most fearful yell from + that direction, but it was no unusual thing for him to bawl and shout when + he was in drink, so no notice was taken. On rising at seven one of the + maids noticed that the door of the hut was open, but so great was the + terror which the man caused that it was midday before anyone would venture + down to see what had become of him. Peeping into the open door they saw a + sight which sent them flying with white faces into the village. Within an + hour I was on the spot and had taken over the case. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have fairly steady nerves, as you know, Mr. Holmes, but I give + you my word that I got a shake when I put my head into that little house. + It was droning like a harmonium with the flies and bluebottles, and the + floor and walls were like a slaughter-house. He had called it a cabin, and + a cabin it was sure enough, for you would have thought that you were in a + ship. There was a bunk at one end, a sea-chest, maps and charts, a picture + of the SEA UNICORN, a line of log-books on a shelf, all exactly as one + would expect to find it in a captain's room. And there in the middle of it + was the man himself, his face twisted like a lost soul in torment, and his + great brindled beard stuck upwards in his agony. Right through his broad + breast a steel harpoon had been driven, and it had sunk deep into the wood + of the wall behind him. He was pinned like a beetle on a card. Of course, + he was quite dead, and had been so from the instant that he had uttered + that last yell of agony. + </p> + <p> + “I know your methods, sir, and I applied them. Before I permitted anything + to be moved I examined most carefully the ground outside, and also the + floor of the room. There were no footmarks.” + </p> + <p> + “Meaning that you saw none?” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, sir, that there were none.” + </p> + <p> + “My good Hopkins, I have investigated many crimes, but I have never yet + seen one which was committed by a flying creature. As long as the criminal + remains upon two legs so long must there be some indentation, some + abrasion, some trifling displacement which can be detected by the + scientific searcher. It is incredible that this blood-bespattered room + contained no trace which could have aided us. I understand, however, from + the inquest that there were some objects which you failed to overlook?” + </p> + <p> + The young inspector winced at my companion's ironical comments. + </p> + <p> + “I was a fool not to call you in at the time, Mr. Holmes. However, that's + past praying for now. Yes, there were several objects in the room which + called for special attention. One was the harpoon with which the deed was + committed. It had been snatched down from a rack on the wall. Two others + remained there, and there was a vacant place for the third. On the stock + was engraved 'Ss. SEA UNICORN, Dundee.' This seemed to establish that the + crime had been done in a moment of fury, and that the murderer had seized + the first weapon which came in his way. The fact that the crime was + committed at two in the morning, and yet Peter Carey was fully dressed, + suggested that he had an appointment with the murderer, which is borne out + by the fact that a bottle of rum and two dirty glasses stood upon the + table.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Holmes; “I think that both inferences are permissible. Was + there any other spirit but rum in the room?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; there was a tantalus containing brandy and whisky on the sea-chest. + It is of no importance to us, however, since the decanters were full, and + it had therefore not been used.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that its presence has some significance,” said Holmes. “However, + let us hear some more about the objects which do seem to you to bear upon + the case.” + </p> + <p> + “There was this tobacco-pouch upon the table.” + </p> + <p> + “What part of the table?” + </p> + <p> + “It lay in the middle. It was of coarse seal-skin—the + straight-haired skin, with a leather thong to bind it. Inside was 'P.C.' + on the flap. There was half an ounce of strong ship's tobacco in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent! What more?” + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins drew from his pocket a drab-covered note-book. The outside + was rough and worn, the leaves discoloured. On the first page were written + the initials “J.H.N.” and the date “1883.” Holmes laid it on the table and + examined it in his minute way, while Hopkins and I gazed over each + shoulder. On the second page were the printed letters “C.P.R.,” and then + came several sheets of numbers. Another heading was Argentine, another + Costa Rica, and another San Paulo, each with pages of signs and figures + after it. + </p> + <p> + “What do you make of these?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “They appear to be lists of Stock Exchange securities. I thought that + 'J.H.N.' were the initials of a broker, and that 'C.P.R.' may have been + his client.” + </p> + <p> + “Try Canadian Pacific Railway,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins swore between his teeth and struck his thigh with his + clenched hand. + </p> + <p> + “What a fool I have been!” he cried. “Of course, it is as you say. Then + 'J.H.N.' are the only initials we have to solve. I have already examined + the old Stock Exchange lists, and I can find no one in 1883 either in the + House or among the outside brokers whose initials correspond with these. + Yet I feel that the clue is the most important one that I hold. You will + admit, Mr. Holmes, that there is a possibility that these initials are + those of the second person who was present—in other words, of the + murderer. I would also urge that the introduction into the case of a + document relating to large masses of valuable securities gives us for the + first time some indication of a motive for the crime.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes's face showed that he was thoroughly taken aback by this + new development. + </p> + <p> + “I must admit both your points,” said he. “I confess that this note-book, + which did not appear at the inquest, modifies any views which I may have + formed. I had come to a theory of the crime in which I can find no place + for this. Have you endeavoured to trace any of the securities here + mentioned?” + </p> + <p> + “Inquiries are now being made at the offices, but I fear that the complete + register of the stockholders of these South American concerns is in South + America, and that some weeks must elapse before we can trace the shares.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had been examining the cover of the note-book with his magnifying + lens. + </p> + <p> + “Surely there is some discolouration here,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, it is a blood-stain. I told you that I picked the book off the + floor.” + </p> + <p> + “Was the blood-stain above or below?” + </p> + <p> + “On the side next the boards.” + </p> + <p> + “Which proves, of course, that the book was dropped after the crime was + committed.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly, Mr. Holmes. I appreciated that point, and I conjectured that it + was dropped by the murderer in his hurried flight. It lay near the door.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose that none of these securities have been found among the + property of the dead man?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you any reason to suspect robbery?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. Nothing seemed to have been touched.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me, it is certainly a very interesting case. Then there was a knife, + was there not?” + </p> + <p> + “A sheath-knife, still in its sheath. It lay at the feet of the dead man. + Mrs. Carey has identified it as being her husband's property.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes was lost in thought for some time. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, at last, “I suppose I shall have to come out and have a + look at it.” + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins gave a cry of joy. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir. That will indeed be a weight off my mind.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes shook his finger at the inspector. + </p> + <p> + “It would have been an easier task a week ago,” said he. “But even now my + visit may not be entirely fruitless. Watson, if you can spare the time I + should be very glad of your company. If you will call a four-wheeler, + Hopkins, we shall be ready to start for Forest Row in a quarter of an + hour.” + </p> + <p> + Alighting at the small wayside station, we drove for some miles through + the remains of widespread woods, which were once part of that great forest + which for so long held the Saxon invaders at bay—the impenetrable + “weald,” for sixty years the bulwark of Britain. Vast sections of it have + been cleared, for this is the seat of the first iron-works of the country, + and the trees have been felled to smelt the ore. Now the richer fields of + the North have absorbed the trade, and nothing save these ravaged groves + and great scars in the earth show the work of the past. Here in a clearing + upon the green slope of a hill stood a long, low stone house, approached + by a curving drive running through the fields. Nearer the road, and + surrounded on three sides by bushes, was a small outhouse, one window and + the door facing in our direction. It was the scene of the murder! + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins led us first to the house, where he introduced us to a + haggard, grey-haired woman, the widow of the murdered man, whose gaunt and + deep-lined face, with the furtive look of terror in the depths of her + red-rimmed eyes, told of the years of hardship and ill-usage which she had + endured. With her was her daughter, a pale, fair-haired girl, whose eyes + blazed defiantly at us as she told us that she was glad that her father + was dead, and that she blessed the hand which had struck him down. It was + a terrible household that Black Peter Carey had made for himself, and it + was with a sense of relief that we found ourselves in the sunlight again + and making our way along a path which had been worn across the fields by + the feet of the dead man. + </p> + <p> + The outhouse was the simplest of dwellings, wooden-walled, shingle-roofed, + one window beside the door and one on the farther side. Stanley Hopkins + drew the key from his pocket, and had stooped to the lock, when he paused + with a look of attention and surprise upon his face. + </p> + <p> + “Someone has been tampering with it,” he said. + </p> + <p> + There could be no doubt of the fact. The woodwork was cut and the + scratches showed white through the paint, as if they had been that instant + done. Holmes had been examining the window. + </p> + <p> + “Someone has tried to force this also. Whoever it was has failed to make + his way in. He must have been a very poor burglar.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a most extraordinary thing,” said the inspector; “I could swear + that these marks were not here yesterday evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Some curious person from the village, perhaps,” I suggested. + </p> + <p> + “Very unlikely. Few of them would dare to set foot in the grounds, far + less try to force their way into the cabin. What do you think of it, Mr. + Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “I think that fortune is very kind to us.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean that the person will come again?” + </p> + <p> + “It is very probable. He came expecting to find the door open. He tried to + get in with the blade of a very small penknife. He could not manage it. + What would he do?” + </p> + <p> + “Come again next night with a more useful tool.” + </p> + <p> + “So I should say. It will be our fault if we are not there to receive him. + Meanwhile, let me see the inside of the cabin.” + </p> + <p> + The traces of the tragedy had been removed, but the furniture within the + little room still stood as it had been on the night of the crime. For two + hours, with most intense concentration, Holmes examined every object in + turn, but his face showed that his quest was not a successful one. Once + only he paused in his patient investigation. + </p> + <p> + “Have you taken anything off this shelf, Hopkins?” + </p> + <p> + “No; I have moved nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Something has been taken. There is less dust in this corner of the shelf + than elsewhere. It may have been a book lying on its side. It may have + been a box. Well, well, I can do nothing more. Let us walk in these + beautiful woods, Watson, and give a few hours to the birds and the + flowers. We shall meet you here later, Hopkins, and see if we can come to + closer quarters with the gentleman who has paid this visit in the night.” + </p> + <p> + It was past eleven o'clock when we formed our little ambuscade. Hopkins + was for leaving the door of the hut open, but Holmes was of the opinion + that this would rouse the suspicions of the stranger. The lock was a + perfectly simple one, and only a strong blade was needed to push it back. + Holmes also suggested that we should wait, not inside the hut, but outside + it among the bushes which grew round the farther window. In this way we + should be able to watch our man if he struck a light, and see what his + object was in this stealthy nocturnal visit. + </p> + <p> + It was a long and melancholy vigil, and yet brought with it something of + the thrill which the hunter feels when he lies beside the water pool and + waits for the coming of the thirsty beast of prey. What savage creature + was it which might steal upon us out of the darkness? Was it a fierce + tiger of crime, which could only be taken fighting hard with flashing fang + and claw, or would it prove to be some skulking jackal, dangerous only to + the weak and unguarded? + </p> + <p> + In absolute silence we crouched amongst the bushes, waiting for whatever + might come. At first the steps of a few belated villagers, or the sound of + voices from the village, lightened our vigil; but one by one these + interruptions died away and an absolute stillness fell upon us, save for + the chimes of the distant church, which told us of the progress of the + night, and for the rustle and whisper of a fine rain falling amid the + foliage which roofed us in. + </p> + <p> + Half-past two had chimed, and it was the darkest hour which precedes the + dawn, when we all started as a low but sharp click came from the direction + of the gate. Someone had entered the drive. Again there was a long + silence, and I had begun to fear that it was a false alarm, when a + stealthy step was heard upon the other side of the hut, and a moment later + a metallic scraping and clinking. The man was trying to force the lock! + This time his skill was greater or his tool was better, for there was a + sudden snap and the creak of the hinges. Then a match was struck, and next + instant the steady light from a candle filled the interior of the hut. + Through the gauze curtain our eyes were all riveted upon the scene within. + </p> + <p> + The nocturnal visitor was a young man, frail and thin, with a black + moustache which intensified the deadly pallor of his face. He could not + have been much above twenty years of age. I have never seen any human + being who appeared to be in such a pitiable fright, for his teeth were + visibly chattering and he was shaking in every limb. He was dressed like a + gentleman, in Norfolk jacket and knickerbockers, with a cloth cap upon his + head. We watched him staring round with frightened eyes. Then he laid the + candle-end upon the table and disappeared from our view into one of the + corners. He returned with a large book, one of the log-books which formed + a line upon the shelves. Leaning on the table he rapidly turned over the + leaves of this volume until he came to the entry which he sought. Then, + with an angry gesture of his clenched hand, he closed the book, replaced + it in the corner, and put out the light. He had hardly turned to leave the + hut when Hopkins's hand was on the fellow's collar, and I heard his loud + gasp of terror as he understood that he was taken. The candle was re-lit, + and there was our wretched captive shivering and cowering in the grasp of + the detective. He sank down upon the sea-chest, and looked helplessly from + one of us to the other. + </p> + <p> + “Now, my fine fellow,” said Stanley Hopkins, “who are you, and what do you + want here?” + </p> + <p> + The man pulled himself together and faced us with an effort at + self-composure. + </p> + <p> + “You are detectives, I suppose?” said he. “You imagine I am connected with + the death of Captain Peter Carey. I assure you that I am innocent.” + </p> + <p> + “We'll see about that,” said Hopkins. “First of all, what is your name?” + </p> + <p> + “It is John Hopley Neligan.” + </p> + <p> + I saw Holmes and Hopkins exchange a quick glance. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing here?” + </p> + <p> + “Can I speak confidentially?” + </p> + <p> + “No, certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I tell you?” + </p> + <p> + “If you have no answer it may go badly with you at the trial.” + </p> + <p> + The young man winced. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I will tell you,” he said. “Why should I not? And yet I hate to + think of this old scandal gaining a new lease of life. Did you ever hear + of Dawson and Neligan?” + </p> + <p> + I could see from Hopkins's face that he never had; but Holmes was keenly + interested. + </p> + <p> + “You mean the West-country bankers,” said he. “They failed for a million, + ruined half the county families of Cornwall, and Neligan disappeared.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Neligan was my father.” + </p> + <p> + At last we were getting something positive, and yet it seemed a long gap + between an absconding banker and Captain Peter Carey pinned against the + wall with one of his own harpoons. We all listened intently to the young + man's words. + </p> + <p> + “It was my father who was really concerned. Dawson had retired. I was only + ten years of age at the time, but I was old enough to feel the shame and + horror of it all. It has always been said that my father stole all the + securities and fled. It is not true. It was his belief that if he were + given time in which to realize them all would be well and every creditor + paid in full. He started in his little yacht for Norway just before the + warrant was issued for his arrest. I can remember that last night when he + bade farewell to my mother. He left us a list of the securities he was + taking, and he swore that he would come back with his honour cleared, and + that none who had trusted him would suffer. Well, no word was ever heard + from him again. Both the yacht and he vanished utterly. We believed, my + mother and I, that he and it, with the securities that he had taken with + him, were at the bottom of the sea. We had a faithful friend, however, who + is a business man, and it was he who discovered some time ago that some of + the securities which my father had with him have reappeared on the London + market. You can imagine our amazement. I spent months in trying to trace + them, and at last, after many doublings and difficulties, I discovered + that the original seller had been Captain Peter Carey, the owner of this + hut. + </p> + <p> + “Naturally, I made some inquiries about the man. I found that he had been + in command of a whaler which was due to return from the Arctic seas at the + very time when my father was crossing to Norway. The autumn of that year + was a stormy one, and there was a long succession of southerly gales. My + father's yacht may well have been blown to the north, and there met by + Captain Peter Carey's ship. If that were so, what had become of my father? + In any case, if I could prove from Peter Carey's evidence how these + securities came on the market it would be a proof that my father had not + sold them, and that he had no view to personal profit when he took them. + </p> + <p> + “I came down to Sussex with the intention of seeing the captain, but it + was at this moment that his terrible death occurred. I read at the inquest + a description of his cabin, in which it stated that the old log-books of + his vessel were preserved in it. It struck me that if I could see what + occurred in the month of August, 1883, on board the SEA UNICORN, I might + settle the mystery of my father's fate. I tried last night to get at these + log-books, but was unable to open the door. To-night I tried again, and + succeeded; but I find that the pages which deal with that month have been + torn from the book. It was at that moment I found myself a prisoner in + your hands.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that all?” asked Hopkins. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is all.” His eyes shifted as he said it. + </p> + <p> + “You have nothing else to tell us?” + </p> + <p> + He hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “No; there is nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not been here before last night?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Then how do you account for THAT?” cried Hopkins, as he held up the + damning note-book, with the initials of our prisoner on the first leaf and + the blood-stain on the cover. + </p> + <p> + The wretched man collapsed. He sank his face in his hands and trembled all + over. + </p> + <p> + “Where did you get it?” he groaned. “I did not know. I thought I had lost + it at the hotel.” + </p> + <p> + “That is enough,” said Hopkins, sternly. “Whatever else you have to say + you must say in court. You will walk down with me now to the + police-station. Well, Mr. Holmes, I am very much obliged to you and to + your friend for coming down to help me. As it turns out your presence was + unnecessary, and I would have brought the case to this successful issue + without you; but none the less I am very grateful. Rooms have been + reserved for you at the Brambletye Hotel, so we can all walk down to the + village together.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Watson, what do you think of it?” asked Holmes, as we travelled + back next morning. + </p> + <p> + “I can see that you are not satisfied.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, my dear Watson, I am perfectly satisfied. At the same time + Stanley Hopkins's methods do not commend themselves to me. I am + disappointed in Stanley Hopkins. I had hoped for better things from him. + One should always look for a possible alternative and provide against it. + It is the first rule of criminal investigation.” + </p> + <p> + “What, then, is the alternative?” + </p> + <p> + “The line of investigation which I have myself been pursuing. It may give + us nothing. I cannot tell. But at least I shall follow it to the end.” + </p> + <p> + Several letters were waiting for Holmes at Baker Street. He snatched one + of them up, opened it, and burst out into a triumphant chuckle of + laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Excellent, Watson. The alternative develops. Have you telegraph forms? + Just write a couple of messages for me: 'Sumner, Shipping Agent, Ratcliff + Highway. Send three men on, to arrive ten to-morrow morning.—Basil.' + That's my name in those parts. The other is: 'Inspector Stanley Hopkins, + 46, Lord Street, Brixton. Come breakfast to-morrow at nine-thirty. + Important. Wire if unable to come.—Sherlock Holmes.' There, Watson, + this infernal case has haunted me for ten days. I hereby banish it + completely from my presence. To-morrow I trust that we shall hear the last + of it for ever.” + </p> + <p> + Sharp at the hour named Inspector Stanley Hopkins appeared, and we sat + down together to the excellent breakfast which Mrs. Hudson had prepared. + The young detective was in high spirits at his success. + </p> + <p> + “You really think that your solution must be correct?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “I could not imagine a more complete case.” + </p> + <p> + “It did not seem to me conclusive.” + </p> + <p> + “You astonish me, Mr. Holmes. What more could one ask for?” + </p> + <p> + “Does your explanation cover every point?” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly. I find that young Neligan arrived at the Brambletye Hotel on + the very day of the crime. He came on the pretence of playing golf. His + room was on the ground-floor, and he could get out when he liked. That + very night he went down to Woodman's Lee, saw Peter Carey at the hut, + quarrelled with him, and killed him with the harpoon. Then, horrified by + what he had done, he fled out of the hut, dropping the note-book which he + had brought with him in order to question Peter Carey about these + different securities. You may have observed that some of them were marked + with ticks, and the others—the great majority—were not. Those + which are ticked have been traced on the London market; but the others + presumably were still in the possession of Carey, and young Neligan, + according to his own account, was anxious to recover them in order to do + the right thing by his father's creditors. After his flight he did not + dare to approach the hut again for some time; but at last he forced + himself to do so in order to obtain the information which he needed. + Surely that is all simple and obvious?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smiled and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me to have only one drawback, Hopkins, and that is that it is + intrinsically impossible. Have you tried to drive a harpoon through a + body? No? Tut, tut, my dear sir, you must really pay attention to these + details. My friend Watson could tell you that I spent a whole morning in + that exercise. It is no easy matter, and requires a strong and practised + arm. But this blow was delivered with such violence that the head of the + weapon sank deep into the wall. Do you imagine that this anaemic youth was + capable of so frightful an assault? Is he the man who hobnobbed in rum and + water with Black Peter in the dead of the night? Was it his profile that + was seen on the blind two nights before? No, no, Hopkins; it is another + and a more formidable person for whom we must seek.” + </p> + <p> + The detective's face had grown longer and longer during Holmes's speech. + His hopes and his ambitions were all crumbling about him. But he would not + abandon his position without a struggle. + </p> + <p> + “You can't deny that Neligan was present that night, Mr. Holmes. The book + will prove that. I fancy that I have evidence enough to satisfy a jury, + even if you are able to pick a hole in it. Besides, Mr. Holmes, I have + laid my hand upon MY man. As to this terrible person of yours, where is + he?” + </p> + <p> + “I rather fancy that he is on the stair,” said Holmes, serenely. “I think, + Watson, that you would do well to put that revolver where you can reach + it.” He rose, and laid a written paper upon a side-table. “Now we are + ready,” said he. + </p> + <p> + There had been some talking in gruff voices outside, and now Mrs. Hudson + opened the door to say that there were three men inquiring for Captain + Basil. + </p> + <p> + “Show them in one by one,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + The first who entered was a little ribston-pippin of a man, with ruddy + cheeks and fluffy white side-whiskers. Holmes had drawn a letter from his + pocket. + </p> + <p> + “What name?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “James Lancaster.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, Lancaster, but the berth is full. Here is half a sovereign + for your trouble. Just step into this room and wait there for a few + minutes.” + </p> + <p> + The second man was a long, dried-up creature, with lank hair and sallow + cheeks. His name was Hugh Pattins. He also received his dismissal, his + half-sovereign, and the order to wait. + </p> + <p> + The third applicant was a man of remarkable appearance. A fierce bull-dog + face was framed in a tangle of hair and beard, and two bold dark eyes + gleamed behind the cover of thick, tufted, overhung eyebrows. He saluted + and stood sailor-fashion, turning his cap round in his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Your name?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Patrick Cairns.” + </p> + <p> + “Harpooner?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. Twenty-six voyages.” + </p> + <p> + “Dundee, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And ready to start with an exploring ship?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What wages?” + </p> + <p> + “Eight pounds a month.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you start at once?” + </p> + <p> + “As soon as I get my kit.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you your papers?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” He took a sheaf of worn and greasy forms from his pocket. + Holmes glanced over them and returned them. + </p> + <p> + “You are just the man I want,” said he. “Here's the agreement on the + side-table. If you sign it the whole matter will be settled.” + </p> + <p> + The seaman lurched across the room and took up the pen. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I sign here?” he asked, stooping over the table. + </p> + <p> + Holmes leaned over his shoulder and passed both hands over his neck. + </p> + <p> + “This will do,” said he. + </p> + <p> + I heard a click of steel and a bellow like an enraged bull. The next + instant Holmes and the seaman were rolling on the ground together. He was + a man of such gigantic strength that, even with the handcuffs which Holmes + had so deftly fastened upon his wrists, he would have very quickly + overpowered my friend had Hopkins and I not rushed to his rescue. Only + when I pressed the cold muzzle of the revolver to his temple did he at + last understand that resistance was vain. We lashed his ankles with cord + and rose breathless from the struggle. + </p> + <p> + “I must really apologize, Hopkins,” said Sherlock Holmes; “I fear that the + scrambled eggs are cold. However, you will enjoy the rest of your + breakfast all the better, will you not, for the thought that you have + brought your case to a triumphant conclusion.” + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins was speechless with amazement. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what to say, Mr. Holmes,” he blurted out at last, with a + very red face. “It seems to me that I have been making a fool of myself + from the beginning. I understand now, what I should never have forgotten, + that I am the pupil and you are the master. Even now I see what you have + done, but I don't know how you did it, or what it signifies.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” said Holmes, good-humouredly. “We all learn by experience, + and your lesson this time is that you should never lose sight of the + alternative. You were so absorbed in young Neligan that you could not + spare a thought to Patrick Cairns, the true murderer of Peter Carey.” + </p> + <p> + The hoarse voice of the seaman broke in on our conversation. + </p> + <p> + “See here, mister,” said he, “I make no complaint of being man-handled in + this fashion, but I would have you call things by their right names. You + say I murdered Peter Carey; I say I KILLED Peter Carey, and there's all + the difference. Maybe you don't believe what I say. Maybe you think I am + just slinging you a yarn.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” said Holmes. “Let us hear what you have to say.” + </p> + <p> + “It's soon told, and, by the Lord, every word of it is truth. I knew Black + Peter, and when he pulled out his knife I whipped a harpoon through him + sharp, for I knew that it was him or me. That's how he died. You can call + it murder. Anyhow, I'd as soon die with a rope round my neck as with Black + Peter's knife in my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “How came you there?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell it you from the beginning. Just sit me up a little so as I can + speak easy. It was in '83 that it happened—August of that year. + Peter Carey was master of the SEA UNICORN, and I was spare harpooner. We + were coming out of the ice-pack on our way home, with head winds and a + week's southerly gale, when we picked up a little craft that had been + blown north. There was one man on her—a landsman. The crew had + thought she would founder, and had made for the Norwegian coast in the + dinghy. I guess they were all drowned. Well, we took him on board, this + man, and he and the skipper had some long talks in the cabin. All the + baggage we took off with him was one tin box. So far as I know, the man's + name was never mentioned, and on the second night he disappeared as if he + had never been. It was given out that he had either thrown himself + overboard or fallen overboard in the heavy weather that we were having. + Only one man knew what had happened to him, and that was me, for with my + own eyes I saw the skipper tip up his heels and put him over the rail in + the middle watch of a dark night, two days before we sighted the Shetland + lights. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I kept my knowledge to myself and waited to see what would come of + it. When we got back to Scotland it was easily hushed up, and nobody asked + any questions. A stranger died by an accident, and it was nobody's + business to inquire. Shortly after Peter Carey gave up the sea, and it was + long years before I could find where he was. I guessed that he had done + the deed for the sake of what was in that tin box, and that he could + afford now to pay me well for keeping my mouth shut. + </p> + <p> + “I found out where he was through a sailor man that had met him in London, + and down I went to squeeze him. The first night he was reasonable enough, + and was ready to give me what would make me free of the sea for life. We + were to fix it all two nights later. When I came I found him three parts + drunk and in a vile temper. We sat down and we drank and we yarned about + old times, but the more he drank the less I liked the look on his face. I + spotted that harpoon upon the wall, and I thought I might need it before I + was through. Then at last he broke out at me, spitting and cursing, with + murder in his eyes and a great clasp-knife in his hand. He had not time to + get it from the sheath before I had the harpoon through him. Heavens! what + a yell he gave; and his face gets between me and my sleep! I stood there, + with his blood splashing round me, and I waited for a bit; but all was + quiet, so I took heart once more. I looked round, and there was the tin + box on a shelf. I had as much right to it as Peter Carey, anyhow, so I + took it with me and left the hut. Like a fool I left my baccy-pouch upon + the table. + </p> + <p> + “Now I'll tell you the queerest part of the whole story. I had hardly got + outside the hut when I heard someone coming, and I hid among the bushes. A + man came slinking along, went into the hut, gave a cry as if he had seen a + ghost, and legged it as hard as he could run until he was out of sight. + Who he was or what he wanted is more than I can tell. For my part I walked + ten miles, got a train at Tunbridge Wells, and so reached London, and no + one the wiser. + </p> + <p> + “Well, when I came to examine the box I found there was no money in it, + and nothing but papers that I would not dare to sell. I had lost my hold + on Black Peter, and was stranded in London without a shilling. There was + only my trade left. I saw these advertisements about harpooners and high + wages, so I went to the shipping agents, and they sent me here. That's all + I know, and I say again that if I killed Black Peter the law should give + me thanks, for I saved them the price of a hempen rope.” + </p> + <p> + “A very clear statement,” said Holmes, rising and lighting his pipe. “I + think, Hopkins, that you should lose no time in conveying your prisoner to + a place of safety. This room is not well adapted for a cell, and Mr. + Patrick Cairns occupies too large a proportion of our carpet.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes,” said Hopkins, “I do not know how to express my gratitude. + Even now I do not understand how you attained this result.” + </p> + <p> + “Simply by having the good fortune to get the right clue from the + beginning. It is very possible if I had known about this note-book it + might have led away my thoughts, as it did yours. But all I heard pointed + in the one direction. The amazing strength, the skill in the use of the + harpoon, the rum and water, the seal-skin tobacco-pouch, with the coarse + tobacco—all these pointed to a seaman, and one who had been a + whaler. I was convinced that the initials 'P.C.' upon the pouch were a + coincidence, and not those of Peter Carey, since he seldom smoked, and no + pipe was found in his cabin. You remember that I asked whether whisky and + brandy were in the cabin. You said they were. How many landsmen are there + who would drink rum when they could get these other spirits? Yes, I was + certain it was a seaman.” + </p> + <p> + “And how did you find him?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear sir, the problem had become a very simple one. If it were a + seaman, it could only be a seaman who had been with him on the SEA + UNICORN. So far as I could learn he had sailed in no other ship. I spent + three days in wiring to Dundee, and at the end of that time I had + ascertained the names of the crew of the SEA UNICORN in 1883. When I found + Patrick Cairns among the harpooners my research was nearing its end. I + argued that the man was probably in London, and that he would desire to + leave the country for a time. I therefore spent some days in the East-end, + devised an Arctic expedition, put forth tempting terms for harpooners who + would serve under Captain Basil—and behold the result!” + </p> + <p> + “Wonderful!” cried Hopkins. “Wonderful!” + </p> + <p> + “You must obtain the release of young Neligan as soon as possible,” said + Holmes. “I confess that I think you owe him some apology. The tin box must + be returned to him, but, of course, the securities which Peter Carey has + sold are lost for ever. There's the cab, Hopkins, and you can remove your + man. If you want me for the trial, my address and that of Watson will be + somewhere in Norway—I'll send particulars later.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 27 APRIL, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VII.—The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton. + </h2> + <p> + IT is years since the incidents of which I speak took place, and yet it is + with diffidence that I allude to them. For a long time, even with the + utmost discretion and reticence, it would have been impossible to make the + facts public; but now the principal person concerned is beyond the reach + of human law, and with due suppression the story may be told in such + fashion as to injure no one. It records an absolutely unique experience in + the career both of Mr. Sherlock Holmes and of myself. The reader will + excuse me if I conceal the date or any other fact by which he might trace + the actual occurrence. + </p> + <p> + We had been out for one of our evening rambles, Holmes and I, and had + returned about six o'clock on a cold, frosty winter's evening. As Holmes + turned up the lamp the light fell upon a card on the table. He glanced at + it, and then, with an ejaculation of disgust, threw it on the floor. I + picked it up and read:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + CHARLES AUGUSTUS MILVERTON, + APPLEDORE TOWERS, + AGENT. HAMPSTEAD. +</pre> + <p> + “Who is he?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “The worst man in London,” Holmes answered, as he sat down and stretched + his legs before the fire. “Is anything on the back of the card?” + </p> + <p> + I turned it over. + </p> + <p> + “Will call at 6.30—C.A.M.,” I read. + </p> + <p> + “Hum! He's about due. Do you feel a creeping, shrinking sensation, Watson, + when you stand before the serpents in the Zoo and see the slithery, + gliding, venomous creatures, with their deadly eyes and wicked, flattened + faces? Well, that's how Milverton impresses me. I've had to do with fifty + murderers in my career, but the worst of them never gave me the repulsion + which I have for this fellow. And yet I can't get out of doing business + with him—indeed, he is here at my invitation.” + </p> + <p> + “But who is he?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you, Watson. He is the king of all the blackmailers. Heaven + help the man, and still more the woman, whose secret and reputation come + into the power of Milverton. With a smiling face and a heart of marble he + will squeeze and squeeze until he has drained them dry. The fellow is a + genius in his way, and would have made his mark in some more savoury + trade. His method is as follows: He allows it to be known that he is + prepared to pay very high sums for letters which compromise people of + wealth or position. He receives these wares not only from treacherous + valets or maids, but frequently from genteel ruffians who have gained the + confidence and affection of trusting women. He deals with no niggard hand. + I happen to know that he paid seven hundred pounds to a footman for a note + two lines in length, and that the ruin of a noble family was the result. + Everything which is in the market goes to Milverton, and there are + hundreds in this great city who turn white at his name. No one knows where + his grip may fall, for he is far too rich and far too cunning to work from + hand to mouth. He will hold a card back for years in order to play it at + the moment when the stake is best worth winning. I have said that he is + the worst man in London, and I would ask you how could one compare the + ruffian who in hot blood bludgeons his mate with this man, who + methodically and at his leisure tortures the soul and wrings the nerves in + order to add to his already swollen money-bags?” + </p> + <p> + I had seldom heard my friend speak with such intensity of feeling. + </p> + <p> + “But surely,” said I, “the fellow must be within the grasp of the law?” + </p> + <p> + “Technically, no doubt, but practically not. What would it profit a woman, + for example, to get him a few months' imprisonment if her own ruin must + immediately follow? His victims dare not hit back. If ever he blackmailed + an innocent person, then, indeed, we should have him; but he is as cunning + as the Evil One. No, no; we must find other ways to fight him.” + </p> + <p> + “And why is he here?” + </p> + <p> + “Because an illustrious client has placed her piteous case in my hands. It + is the Lady Eva Brackwell, the most beautiful DEBUTANTE of last season. + She is to be married in a fortnight to the Earl of Dovercourt. This fiend + has several imprudent letters—imprudent, Watson, nothing worse—which + were written to an impecunious young squire in the country. They would + suffice to break off the match. Milverton will send the letters to the + Earl unless a large sum of money is paid him. I have been commissioned to + meet him, and—to make the best terms I can.” + </p> + <p> + At that instant there was a clatter and a rattle in the street below. + Looking down I saw a stately carriage and pair, the brilliant lamps + gleaming on the glossy haunches of the noble chestnuts. A footman opened + the door, and a small, stout man in a shaggy astrachan overcoat descended. + A minute later he was in the room. + </p> + <p> + Charles Augustus Milverton was a man of fifty, with a large, intellectual + head, a round, plump, hairless face, a perpetual frozen smile, and two + keen grey eyes, which gleamed brightly from behind broad, golden-rimmed + glasses. There was something of Mr. Pickwick's benevolence in his + appearance, marred only by the insincerity of the fixed smile and by the + hard glitter of those restless and penetrating eyes. His voice was as + smooth and suave as his countenance, as he advanced with a plump little + hand extended, murmuring his regret for having missed us at his first + visit. Holmes disregarded the outstretched hand and looked at him with a + face of granite. Milverton's smile broadened; he shrugged his shoulders, + removed his overcoat, folded it with great deliberation over the back of a + chair, and then took a seat. + </p> + <p> + “This gentleman?” said he, with a wave in my direction. “Is it discreet? + Is it right?” + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Watson is my friend and partner.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, Mr. Holmes. It is only in your client's interests that I + protested. The matter is so very delicate——” + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Watson has already heard of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we can proceed to business. You say that you are acting for Lady + Eva. Has she empowered you to accept my terms?” + </p> + <p> + “What are your terms?” + </p> + <p> + “Seven thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “And the alternative?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear sir, it is painful for me to discuss it; but if the money is not + paid on the 14th there certainly will be no marriage on the 18th.” His + insufferable smile was more complacent than ever. + </p> + <p> + Holmes thought for a little. + </p> + <p> + “You appear to me,” he said, at last, “to be taking matters too much for + granted. I am, of course, familiar with the contents of these letters. My + client will certainly do what I may advise. I shall counsel her to tell + her future husband the whole story and to trust to his generosity.” + </p> + <p> + Milverton chuckled. + </p> + <p> + “You evidently do not know the Earl,” said he. + </p> + <p> + From the baffled look upon Holmes's face I could see clearly that he did. + </p> + <p> + “What harm is there in the letters?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “They are sprightly—very sprightly,” Milverton answered. “The lady + was a charming correspondent. But I can assure you that the Earl of + Dovercourt would fail to appreciate them. However, since you think + otherwise, we will let it rest at that. It is purely a matter of business. + If you think that it is in the best interests of your client that these + letters should be placed in the hands of the Earl, then you would indeed + be foolish to pay so large a sum of money to regain them.” He rose and + seized his astrachan coat. + </p> + <p> + Holmes was grey with anger and mortification. + </p> + <p> + “Wait a little,” he said. “You go too fast. We would certainly make every + effort to avoid scandal in so delicate a matter.” + </p> + <p> + Milverton relapsed into his chair. + </p> + <p> + “I was sure that you would see it in that light,” he purred. + </p> + <p> + “At the same time,” Holmes continued, “Lady Eva is not a wealthy woman. I + assure you that two thousand pounds would be a drain upon her resources, + and that the sum you name is utterly beyond her power. I beg, therefore, + that you will moderate your demands, and that you will return the letters + at the price I indicate, which is, I assure you, the highest that you can + get.” + </p> + <p> + Milverton's smile broadened and his eyes twinkled humorously. + </p> + <p> + “I am aware that what you say is true about the lady's resources,” said + he. “At the same time, you must admit that the occasion of a lady's + marriage is a very suitable time for her friends and relatives to make + some little effort upon her behalf. They may hesitate as to an acceptable + wedding present. Let me assure them that this little bundle of letters + would give more joy than all the candelabra and butter-dishes in London.” + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me, dear me, how unfortunate!” cried Milverton, taking out a bulky + pocket-book. “I cannot help thinking that ladies are ill-advised in not + making an effort. Look at this!” He held up a little note with a + coat-of-arms upon the envelope. “That belongs to—well, perhaps it is + hardly fair to tell the name until to-morrow morning. But at that time it + will be in the hands of the lady's husband. And all because she will not + find a beggarly sum which she could get by turning her diamonds into + paste. It IS such a pity. Now, you remember the sudden end of the + engagement between the Honourable Miss Miles and Colonel Dorking? Only two + days before the wedding there was a paragraph in the MORNING POST to say + that it was all off. And why? It is almost incredible, but the absurd sum + of twelve hundred pounds would have settled the whole question. Is it not + pitiful? And here I find you, a man of sense, boggling about terms when + your client's future and honour are at stake. You surprise me, Mr. + Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “What I say is true,” Holmes answered. “The money cannot be found. Surely + it is better for you to take the substantial sum which I offer than to + ruin this woman's career, which can profit you in no way?” + </p> + <p> + “There you make a mistake, Mr. Holmes. An exposure would profit me + indirectly to a considerable extent. I have eight or ten similar cases + maturing. If it was circulated among them that I had made a severe example + of the Lady Eva I should find all of them much more open to reason. You + see my point?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes sprang from his chair. + </p> + <p> + “Get behind him, Watson! Don't let him out! Now, sir, let us see the + contents of that note-book.” + </p> + <p> + Milverton had glided as quick as a rat to the side of the room, and stood + with his back against the wall. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes, Mr. Holmes,” he said, turning the front of his coat and + exhibiting the butt of a large revolver, which projected from the inside + pocket. “I have been expecting you to do something original. This has been + done so often, and what good has ever come from it? I assure you that I am + armed to the teeth, and I am perfectly prepared to use my weapons, knowing + that the law will support me. Besides, your supposition that I would bring + the letters here in a note-book is entirely mistaken. I would do nothing + so foolish. And now, gentlemen, I have one or two little interviews this + evening, and it is a long drive to Hampstead.” He stepped forward, took up + his coat, laid his hand on his revolver, and turned to the door. I picked + up a chair, but Holmes shook his head and I laid it down again. With bow, + a smile, and a twinkle Milverton was out of the room, and a few moments + after we heard the slam of the carriage door and the rattle of the wheels + as he drove away. + </p> + <p> + Holmes sat motionless by the fire, his hands buried deep in his trouser + pockets, his chin sunk upon his breast, his eyes fixed upon the glowing + embers. For half an hour he was silent and still. Then, with the gesture + of a man who has taken his decision, he sprang to his feet and passed into + his bedroom. A little later a rakish young workman with a goatee beard and + a swagger lit his clay pipe at the lamp before descending into the street. + “I'll be back some time, Watson,” said he, and vanished into the night. I + understood that he had opened his campaign against Charles Augustus + Milverton; but I little dreamed the strange shape which that campaign was + destined to take. + </p> + <p> + For some days Holmes came and went at all hours in this attire, but beyond + a remark that his time was spent at Hampstead, and that it was not wasted, + I knew nothing of what he was doing. At last, however, on a wild, + tempestuous evening, when the wind screamed and rattled against the + windows, he returned from his last expedition, and having removed his + disguise he sat before the fire and laughed heartily in his silent inward + fashion. + </p> + <p> + “You would not call me a marrying man, Watson?” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “You'll be interested to hear that I am engaged.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear fellow! I congrat——” + </p> + <p> + “To Milverton's housemaid.” + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens, Holmes!” + </p> + <p> + “I wanted information, Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely you have gone too far?” + </p> + <p> + “It was a most necessary step. I am a plumber with a rising business, + Escott by name. I have walked out with her each evening, and I have talked + with her. Good heavens, those talks! However, I have got all I wanted. I + know Milverton's house as I know the palm of my hand.” + </p> + <p> + “But the girl, Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + He shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “You can't help it, my dear Watson. You must play your cards as best you + can when such a stake is on the table. However, I rejoice to say that I + have a hated rival who will certainly cut me out the instant that my back + is turned. What a splendid night it is!” + </p> + <p> + “You like this weather?” + </p> + <p> + “It suits my purpose. Watson, I mean to burgle Milverton's house + to-night.” + </p> + <p> + I had a catching of the breath, and my skin went cold at the words, which + were slowly uttered in a tone of concentrated resolution. As a flash of + lightning in the night shows up in an instant every detail of a wide + landscape, so at one glance I seemed to see every possible result of such + an action—the detection, the capture, the honoured career ending in + irreparable failure and disgrace, my friend himself lying at the mercy of + the odious Milverton. + </p> + <p> + “For Heaven's sake, Holmes, think what you are doing,” I cried. + </p> + <p> + “My dear fellow, I have given it every consideration. I am never + precipitate in my actions, nor would I adopt so energetic and indeed so + dangerous a course if any other were possible. Let us look at the matter + clearly and fairly. I suppose that you will admit that the action is + morally justifiable, though technically criminal. To burgle his house is + no more than to forcibly take his pocket-book—an action in which you + were prepared to aid me.” + </p> + <p> + I turned it over in my mind. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I said; “it is morally justifiable so long as our object is to take + no articles save those which are used for an illegal purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Since it is morally justifiable I have only to consider the + question of personal risk. Surely a gentleman should not lay much stress + upon this when a lady is in most desperate need of his help?” + </p> + <p> + “You will be in such a false position.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is part of the risk. There is no other possible way of + regaining these letters. The unfortunate lady has not the money, and there + are none of her people in whom she could confide. To-morrow is the last + day of grace, and unless we can get the letters to-night this villain will + be as good as his word and will bring about her ruin. I must, therefore, + abandon my client to her fate or I must play this last card. Between + ourselves, Watson, it's a sporting duel between this fellow Milverton and + me. He had, as you saw, the best of the first exchanges; but my + self-respect and my reputation are concerned to fight it to a finish.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't like it; but I suppose it must be,” said I. “When do we + start?” + </p> + <p> + “You are not coming.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are not going,” said I. “I give you my word of honour—and + I never broke it in my life—that I will take a cab straight to the + police-station and give you away unless you let me share this adventure + with you.” + </p> + <p> + “You can't help me.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know that? You can't tell what may happen. Anyway, my + resolution is taken. Other people beside you have self-respect and even + reputations.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had looked annoyed, but his brow cleared, and he clapped me on the + shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, my dear fellow, be it so. We have shared the same room for + some years, and it would be amusing if we ended by sharing the same cell. + You know, Watson, I don't mind confessing to you that I have always had an + idea that I would have made a highly efficient criminal. This is the + chance of my lifetime in that direction. See here!” He took a neat little + leather case out of a drawer, and opening it he exhibited a number of + shining instruments. “This is a first-class, up-to-date burgling kit, with + nickel-plated jemmy, diamond-tipped glass-cutter, adaptable keys, and + every modern improvement which the march of civilization demands. Here, + too, is my dark lantern. Everything is in order. Have you a pair of silent + shoes?” + </p> + <p> + “I have rubber-soled tennis shoes.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent. And a mask?” + </p> + <p> + “I can make a couple out of black silk.” + </p> + <p> + “I can see that you have a strong natural turn for this sort of thing. + Very good; do you make the masks. We shall have some cold supper before we + start. It is now nine-thirty. At eleven we shall drive as far as Church + Row. It is a quarter of an hour's walk from there to Appledore Towers. We + shall be at work before midnight. Milverton is a heavy sleeper and retires + punctually at ten-thirty. With any luck we should be back here by two, + with the Lady Eva's letters in my pocket.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes and I put on our dress-clothes, so that we might appear to be two + theatre-goers homeward bound. In Oxford Street we picked up a hansom and + drove to an address in Hampstead. Here we paid off our cab, and with our + great-coats buttoned up, for it was bitterly cold and the wind seemed to + blow through us, we walked along the edge of the Heath. + </p> + <p> + “It's a business that needs delicate treatment,” said Holmes. “These + documents are contained in a safe in the fellow's study, and the study is + the ante-room of his bed-chamber. On the other hand, like all these stout, + little men who do themselves well, he is a plethoric sleeper. Agatha—that's + my FIANCEE—says it is a joke in the servants' hall that it's + impossible to wake the master. He has a secretary who is devoted to his + interests and never budges from the study all day. That's why we are going + at night. Then he has a beast of a dog which roams the garden. I met + Agatha late the last two evenings, and she locks the brute up so as to + give me a clear run. This is the house, this big one in its own grounds. + Through the gate—now to the right among the laurels. We might put on + our masks here, I think. You see, there is not a glimmer of light in any + of the windows, and everything is working splendidly.” + </p> + <p> + With our black silk face-coverings, which turned us into two of the most + truculent figures in London, we stole up to the silent, gloomy house. A + sort of tiled veranda extended along one side of it, lined by several + windows and two doors. + </p> + <p> + “That's his bedroom,” Holmes whispered. “This door opens straight into the + study. It would suit us best, but it is bolted as well as locked, and we + should make too much noise getting in. Come round here. There's a + greenhouse which opens into the drawing-room.” + </p> + <p> + The place was locked, but Holmes removed a circle of glass and turned the + key from the inside. An instant afterwards he had closed the door behind + us, and we had become felons in the eyes of the law. The thick, warm air + of the conservatory and the rich, choking fragrance of exotic plants took + us by the throat. He seized my hand in the darkness and led me swiftly + past banks of shrubs which brushed against our faces. Holmes had + remarkable powers, carefully cultivated, of seeing in the dark. Still + holding my hand in one of his he opened a door, and I was vaguely + conscious that we had entered a large room in which a cigar had been + smoked not long before. He felt his way among the furniture, opened + another door, and closed it behind us. Putting out my hand I felt several + coats hanging from the wall, and I understood that I was in a passage. We + passed along it, and Holmes very gently opened a door upon the right-hand + side. Something rushed out at us and my heart sprang into my mouth, but I + could have laughed when I realized that it was the cat. A fire was burning + in this new room, and again the air was heavy with tobacco smoke. Holmes + entered on tiptoe, waited for me to follow, and then very gently closed + the door. We were in Milverton's study, and a PORTIERE at the farther side + showed the entrance to his bedroom. + </p> + <p> + It was a good fire, and the room was illuminated by it. Near the door I + saw the gleam of an electric switch, but it was unnecessary, even if it + had been safe, to turn it on. At one side of the fireplace was a heavy + curtain, which covered the bay window we had seen from outside. On the + other side was the door which communicated with the veranda. A desk stood + in the centre, with a turning chair of shining red leather. Opposite was a + large bookcase, with a marble bust of Athene on the top. In the corner + between the bookcase and the wall there stood a tall green safe, the + firelight flashing back from the polished brass knobs upon its face. + Holmes stole across and looked at it. Then he crept to the door of the + bedroom, and stood with slanting head listening intently. No sound came + from within. Meanwhile it had struck me that it would be wise to secure + our retreat through the outer door, so I examined it. To my amazement it + was neither locked nor bolted! I touched Holmes on the arm, and he turned + his masked face in that direction. I saw him start, and he was evidently + as surprised as I. + </p> + <p> + “I don't like it,” he whispered, putting his lips to my very ear. “I can't + quite make it out. Anyhow, we have no time to lose.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I do anything?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; stand by the door. If you hear anyone come, bolt it on the inside, + and we can get away as we came. If they come the other way, we can get + through the door if our job is done, or hide behind these window curtains + if it is not. Do you understand?” + </p> + <p> + I nodded and stood by the door. My first feeling of fear had passed away, + and I thrilled now with a keener zest than I had ever enjoyed when we were + the defenders of the law instead of its defiers. The high object of our + mission, the consciousness that it was unselfish and chivalrous, the + villainous character of our opponent, all added to the sporting interest + of the adventure. Far from feeling guilty, I rejoiced and exulted in our + dangers. With a glow of admiration I watched Holmes unrolling his case of + instruments and choosing his tool with the calm, scientific accuracy of a + surgeon who performs a delicate operation. I knew that the opening of + safes was a particular hobby with him, and I understood the joy which it + gave him to be confronted with this green and gold monster, the dragon + which held in its maw the reputations of many fair ladies. Turning up the + cuffs of his dress-coat—he had placed his overcoat on a chair—Holmes + laid out two drills, a jemmy, and several skeleton keys. I stood at the + centre door with my eyes glancing at each of the others, ready for any + emergency; though, indeed, my plans were somewhat vague as to what I + should do if we were interrupted. For half an hour Holmes worked with + concentrated energy, laying down one tool, picking up another, handling + each with the strength and delicacy of the trained mechanic. Finally I + heard a click, the broad green door swung open, and inside I had a glimpse + of a number of paper packets, each tied, sealed, and inscribed. Holmes + picked one out, but it was hard to read by the flickering fire, and he + drew out his little dark lantern, for it was too dangerous, with Milverton + in the next room, to switch on the electric light. Suddenly I saw him + halt, listen intently, and then in an instant he had swung the door of the + safe to, picked up his coat, stuffed his tools into the pockets, and + darted behind the window curtain, motioning me to do the same. + </p> + <p> + It was only when I had joined him there that I heard what had alarmed his + quicker senses. There was a noise somewhere within the house. A door + slammed in the distance. Then a confused, dull murmur broke itself into + the measured thud of heavy footsteps rapidly approaching. They were in the + passage outside the room. They paused at the door. The door opened. There + was a sharp snick as the electric light was turned on. The door closed + once more, and the pungent reek of a strong cigar was borne to our + nostrils. Then the footsteps continued backwards and forwards, backwards + and forwards, within a few yards of us. Finally, there was a creak from a + chair, and the footsteps ceased. Then a key clicked in a lock and I heard + the rustle of papers. + </p> + <p> + So far I had not dared to look out, but now I gently parted the division + of the curtains in front of me and peeped through. From the pressure of + Holmes's shoulder against mine I knew that he was sharing my observations. + Right in front of us, and almost within our reach, was the broad, rounded + back of Milverton. It was evident that we had entirely miscalculated his + movements, that he had never been to his bedroom, but that he had been + sitting up in some smoking or billiard room in the farther wing of the + house, the windows of which we had not seen. His broad, grizzled head, + with its shining patch of baldness, was in the immediate foreground of our + vision. He was leaning far back in the red leather chair, his legs + outstretched, a long black cigar projecting at an angle from his mouth. He + wore a semi-military smoking jacket, claret-coloured, with a black velvet + collar. In his hand he held a long legal document, which he was reading in + an indolent fashion, blowing rings of tobacco smoke from his lips as he + did so. There was no promise of a speedy departure in his composed bearing + and his comfortable attitude. + </p> + <p> + I felt Holmes's hand steal into mine and give me a reassuring shake, as if + to say that the situation was within his powers and that he was easy in + his mind. I was not sure whether he had seen what was only too obvious + from my position, that the door of the safe was imperfectly closed, and + that Milverton might at any moment observe it. In my own mind I had + determined that if I were sure, from the rigidity of his gaze, that it had + caught his eye, I would at once spring out, throw my great-coat over his + head, pinion him, and leave the rest to Holmes. But Milverton never looked + up. He was languidly interested by the papers in his hand, and page after + page was turned as he followed the argument of the lawyer. At least, I + thought, when he has finished the document and the cigar he will go to his + room; but before he had reached the end of either there came a remarkable + development which turned our thoughts into quite another channel. + </p> + <p> + Several times I had observed that Milverton looked at his watch, and once + he had risen and sat down again, with a gesture of impatience. The idea, + however, that he might have an appointment at so strange an hour never + occurred to me until a faint sound reached my ears from the veranda + outside. Milverton dropped his papers and sat rigid in his chair. The + sound was repeated, and then there came a gentle tap at the door. + Milverton rose and opened it. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, curtly, “you are nearly half an hour late.” + </p> + <p> + So this was the explanation of the unlocked door and of the nocturnal + vigil of Milverton. There was the gentle rustle of a woman's dress. I had + closed the slit between the curtains as Milverton's face had turned in our + direction, but now I ventured very carefully to open it once more. He had + resumed his seat, the cigar still projecting at an insolent angle from the + corner of his mouth. In front of him, in the full glare of the electric + light, there stood a tall, slim, dark woman, a veil over her face, a + mantle drawn round her chin. Her breath came quick and fast, and every + inch of the lithe figure was quivering with strong emotion. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Milverton, “you've made me lose a good night's rest, my dear. + I hope you'll prove worth it. You couldn't come any other time—eh?” + </p> + <p> + The woman shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you couldn't you couldn't. If the Countess is a hard mistress + you have your chance to get level with her now. Bless the girl, what are + you shivering about? That's right! Pull yourself together! Now, let us get + down to business.” He took a note from the drawer of his desk. “You say + that you have five letters which compromise the Countess d'Albert. You + want to sell them. I want to buy them. So far so good. It only remains to + fix a price. I should want to inspect the letters, of course. If they are + really good specimens—Great heavens, is it you?” + </p> + <p> + The woman without a word had raised her veil and dropped the mantle from + her chin. It was a dark, handsome, clear-cut face which confronted + Milverton, a face with a curved nose, strong, dark eyebrows shading hard, + glittering eyes, and a straight, thin-lipped mouth set in a dangerous + smile. + </p> + <p> + “It is I,” she said; “the woman whose life you have ruined.” + </p> + <p> + Milverton laughed, but fear vibrated in his voice. “You were so very + obstinate,” said he. “Why did you drive me to such extremities? I assure + you I wouldn't hurt a fly of my own accord, but every man has his + business, and what was I to do? I put the price well within your means. + You would not pay.” + </p> + <p> + “So you sent the letters to my husband, and he—the noblest gentleman + that ever lived, a man whose boots I was never worthy to lace—he + broke his gallant heart and died. You remember that last night when I came + through that door I begged and prayed you for mercy, and you laughed in my + face as you are trying to laugh now, only your coward heart cannot keep + your lips from twitching? Yes, you never thought to see me here again, but + it was that night which taught me how I could meet you face to face, and + alone. Well, Charles Milverton, what have you to say?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't imagine that you can bully me,” said he, rising to his feet. “I + have only to raise my voice, and I could call my servants and have you + arrested. But I will make allowance for your natural anger. Leave the room + at once as you came, and I will say no more.” + </p> + <p> + The woman stood with her hand buried in her bosom, and the same deadly + smile on her thin lips. + </p> + <p> + “You will ruin no more lives as you ruined mine. You will wring no more + hearts as you wrung mine. I will free the world of a poisonous thing. Take + that, you hound, and that!—and that!—and that!” + </p> + <p> + She had drawn a little, gleaming revolver, and emptied barrel after barrel + into Milverton's body, the muzzle within two feet of his shirt front. He + shrank away and then fell forward upon the table, coughing furiously and + clawing among the papers. Then he staggered to his feet, received another + shot, and rolled upon the floor. “You've done me,” he cried, and lay + still. The woman looked at him intently and ground her heel into his + upturned face. She looked again, but there was no sound or movement. I + heard a sharp rustle, the night air blew into the heated room, and the + avenger was gone. + </p> + <p> + No interference upon our part could have saved the man from his fate; but + as the woman poured bullet after bullet into Milverton's shrinking body I + was about to spring out, when I felt Holmes's cold, strong grasp upon my + wrist. I understood the whole argument of that firm, restraining grip—that + it was no affair of ours; that justice had overtaken a villain; that we + had our own duties and our own objects which were not to be lost sight of. + But hardly had the woman rushed from the room when Holmes, with swift, + silent steps, was over at the other door. He turned the key in the lock. + At the same instant we heard voices in the house and the sound of hurrying + feet. The revolver shots had roused the household. With perfect coolness + Holmes slipped across to the safe, filled his two arms with bundles of + letters, and poured them all into the fire. Again and again he did it, + until the safe was empty. Someone turned the handle and beat upon the + outside of the door. Holmes looked swiftly round. The letter which had + been the messenger of death for Milverton lay, all mottled with his blood, + upon the table. Holmes tossed it in among the blazing papers. Then he drew + the key from the outer door, passed through after me, and locked it on the + outside. “This way, Watson,” said he; “we can scale the garden wall in + this direction.” + </p> + <p> + I could not have believed that an alarm could have spread so swiftly. + Looking back, the huge house was one blaze of light. The front door was + open, and figures were rushing down the drive. The whole garden was alive + with people, and one fellow raised a view-halloa as we emerged from the + veranda and followed hard at our heels. Holmes seemed to know the ground + perfectly, and he threaded his way swiftly among a plantation of small + trees, I close at his heels, and our foremost pursuer panting behind us. + It was a six-foot wall which barred our path, but he sprang to the top and + over. As I did the same I felt the hand of the man behind me grab at my + ankle; but I kicked myself free and scrambled over a glass-strewn coping. + I fell upon my face among some bushes; but Holmes had me on my feet in an + instant, and together we dashed away across the huge expanse of Hampstead + Heath. We had run two miles, I suppose, before Holmes at last halted and + listened intently. All was absolute silence behind us. We had shaken off + our pursuers and were safe. + </p> + <p> + We had breakfasted and were smoking our morning pipe on the day after the + remarkable experience which I have recorded when Mr. Lestrade, of Scotland + Yard, very solemn and impressive, was ushered into our modest + sitting-room. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, Mr. Holmes,” said he; “good morning. May I ask if you are + very busy just now?” + </p> + <p> + “Not too busy to listen to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought that, perhaps, if you had nothing particular on hand, you might + care to assist us in a most remarkable case which occurred only last night + at Hampstead.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” said Holmes. “What was that?” + </p> + <p> + “A murder—a most dramatic and remarkable murder. I know how keen you + are upon these things, and I would take it as a great favour if you would + step down to Appledore Towers and give us the benefit of your advice. It + is no ordinary crime. We have had our eyes upon this Mr. Milverton for + some time, and, between ourselves, he was a bit of a villain. He is known + to have held papers which he used for blackmailing purposes. These papers + have all been burned by the murderers. No article of value was taken, as + it is probable that the criminals were men of good position, whose sole + object was to prevent social exposure.” + </p> + <p> + “Criminals!” said Holmes. “Plural!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there were two of them. They were, as nearly as possible, captured + red-handed. We have their foot-marks, we have their description; it's ten + to one that we trace them. The first fellow was a bit too active, but the + second was caught by the under-gardener and only got away after a + struggle. He was a middle-sized, strongly-built man—square jaw, + thick neck, moustache, a mask over his eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “That's rather vague,” said Sherlock Holmes. “Why, it might be a + description of Watson!” + </p> + <p> + “It's true,” said the inspector, with much amusement. “It might be a + description of Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am afraid I can't help you, Lestrade,” said Holmes. “The fact is + that I knew this fellow Milverton, that I considered him one of the most + dangerous men in London, and that I think there are certain crimes which + the law cannot touch, and which therefore, to some extent, justify private + revenge. No, it's no use arguing. I have made up my mind. My sympathies + are with the criminals rather than with the victim, and I will not handle + this case.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had not said one word to me about the tragedy which we had + witnessed, but I observed all the morning that he was in his most + thoughtful mood, and he gave me the impression, from his vacant eyes and + his abstracted manner, of a man who is striving to recall something to his + memory. We were in the middle of our lunch when he suddenly sprang to his + feet. “By Jove, Watson; I've got it!” he cried. “Take your hat! Come with + me!” He hurried at his top speed down Baker Street and along Oxford + Street, until we had almost reached Regent Circus. Here on the left hand + there stands a shop window filled with photographs of the celebrities and + beauties of the day. Holmes's eyes fixed themselves upon one of them, and + following his gaze I saw the picture of a regal and stately lady in Court + dress, with a high diamond tiara upon her noble head. I looked at that + delicately-curved nose, at the marked eyebrows, at the straight mouth, and + the strong little chin beneath it. Then I caught my breath as I read the + time-honoured title of the great nobleman and statesman whose wife she had + been. My eyes met those of Holmes, and he put his finger to his lips as we + turned away from the window. + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 27 MAY, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + VIII.—The Adventure of the Six Napoleons. + </h2> + <p> + IT was no very unusual thing for Mr. Lestrade, of Scotland Yard, to look + in upon us of an evening, and his visits were welcome to Sherlock Holmes, + for they enabled him to keep in touch with all that was going on at the + police head-quarters. In return for the news which Lestrade would bring, + Holmes was always ready to listen with attention to the details of any + case upon which the detective was engaged, and was able occasionally, + without any active interference, to give some hint or suggestion drawn + from his own vast knowledge and experience. + </p> + <p> + On this particular evening Lestrade had spoken of the weather and the + newspapers. Then he had fallen silent, puffing thoughtfully at his cigar. + Holmes looked keenly at him. + </p> + <p> + “Anything remarkable on hand?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, Mr. Holmes, nothing very particular.” + </p> + <p> + “Then tell me about it.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes, there is no use denying that there IS something on my + mind. And yet it is such an absurd business that I hesitated to bother you + about it. On the other hand, although it is trivial, it is undoubtedly + queer, and I know that you have a taste for all that is out of the common. + But in my opinion it comes more in Dr. Watson's line than ours.” + </p> + <p> + “Disease?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Madness, anyhow. And a queer madness too! You wouldn't think there was + anyone living at this time of day who had such a hatred of Napoleon the + First that he would break any image of him that he could see.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes sank back in his chair. + </p> + <p> + “That's no business of mine,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. That's what I said. But then, when the man commits burglary in + order to break images which are not his own, that brings it away from the + doctor and on to the policeman.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes sat up again. + </p> + <p> + “Burglary! This is more interesting. Let me hear the details.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade took out his official note-book and refreshed his memory from its + pages. + </p> + <p> + “The first case reported was four days ago,” said he. “It was at the shop + of Morse Hudson, who has a place for the sale of pictures and statues in + the Kennington Road. The assistant had left the front shop for an instant + when he heard a crash, and hurrying in he found a plaster bust of + Napoleon, which stood with several other works of art upon the counter, + lying shivered into fragments. He rushed out into the road, but, although + several passers-by declared that they had noticed a man run out of the + shop, he could neither see anyone nor could he find any means of + identifying the rascal. It seemed to be one of those senseless acts of + Hooliganism which occur from time to time, and it was reported to the + constable on the beat as such. The plaster cast was not worth more than a + few shillings, and the whole affair appeared to be too childish for any + particular investigation. + </p> + <p> + “The second case, however, was more serious and also more singular. It + occurred only last night. + </p> + <p> + “In Kennington Road, and within a few hundred yards of Morse Hudson's + shop, there lives a well-known medical practitioner, named Dr. Barnicot, + who has one of the largest practices upon the south side of the Thames. + His residence and principal consulting-room is at Kennington Road, but he + has a branch surgery and dispensary at Lower Brixton Road, two miles away. + This Dr. Barnicot is an enthusiastic admirer of Napoleon, and his house is + full of books, pictures, and relics of the French Emperor. Some little + time ago he purchased from Morse Hudson two duplicate plaster casts of the + famous head of Napoleon by the French sculptor, Devine. One of these he + placed in his hall in the house at Kennington Road, and the other on the + mantelpiece of the surgery at Lower Brixton. Well, when Dr. Barnicot came + down this morning he was astonished to find that his house had been + burgled during the night, but that nothing had been taken save the plaster + head from the hall. It had been carried out and had been dashed savagely + against the garden wall, under which its splintered fragments were + discovered.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes rubbed his hands. + </p> + <p> + “This is certainly very novel,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I thought it would please you. But I have not got to the end yet. Dr. + Barnicot was due at his surgery at twelve o'clock, and you can imagine his + amazement when, on arriving there, he found that the window had been + opened in the night, and that the broken pieces of his second bust were + strewn all over the room. It had been smashed to atoms where it stood. In + neither case were there any signs which could give us a clue as to the + criminal or lunatic who had done the mischief. Now, Mr. Holmes, you have + got the facts.” + </p> + <p> + “They are singular, not to say grotesque,” said Holmes. “May I ask whether + the two busts smashed in Dr. Barnicot's rooms were the exact duplicates of + the one which was destroyed in Morse Hudson's shop?” + </p> + <p> + “They were taken from the same mould.” + </p> + <p> + “Such a fact must tell against the theory that the man who breaks them is + influenced by any general hatred of Napoleon. Considering how many + hundreds of statues of the great Emperor must exist in London, it is too + much to suppose such a coincidence as that a promiscuous iconoclast should + chance to begin upon three specimens of the same bust.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I thought as you do,” said Lestrade. “On the other hand, this Morse + Hudson is the purveyor of busts in that part of London, and these three + were the only ones which had been in his shop for years. So, although, as + you say, there are many hundreds of statues in London, it is very probable + that these three were the only ones in that district. Therefore, a local + fanatic would begin with them. What do you think, Dr. Watson?” + </p> + <p> + “There are no limits to the possibilities of monomania,” I answered. + “There is the condition which the modern French psychologists have called + the 'idee fixe,' which may be trifling in character, and accompanied by + complete sanity in every other way. A man who had read deeply about + Napoleon, or who had possibly received some hereditary family injury + through the great war, might conceivably form such an 'idee fixe' and + under its influence be capable of any fantastic outrage.” + </p> + <p> + “That won't do, my dear Watson,” said Holmes, shaking his head; “for no + amount of 'idee fixe' would enable your interesting monomaniac to find out + where these busts were situated.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, how do YOU explain it?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't attempt to do so. I would only observe that there is a certain + method in the gentleman's eccentric proceedings. For example, in Dr. + Barnicot's hall, where a sound might arouse the family, the bust was taken + outside before being broken, whereas in the surgery, where there was less + danger of an alarm, it was smashed where it stood. The affair seems + absurdly trifling, and yet I dare call nothing trivial when I reflect that + some of my most classic cases have had the least promising commencement. + You will remember, Watson, how the dreadful business of the Abernetty + family was first brought to my notice by the depth which the parsley had + sunk into the butter upon a hot day. I can't afford, therefore, to smile + at your three broken busts, Lestrade, and I shall be very much obliged to + you if you will let me hear of any fresh developments of so singular a + chain of events.” + </p> + <p> + The development for which my friend had asked came in a quicker and an + infinitely more tragic form than he could have imagined. I was still + dressing in my bedroom next morning when there was a tap at the door and + Holmes entered, a telegram in his hand. He read it aloud:— + </p> + <p> + “Come instantly, 131, Pitt Street, Kensington.—Lestrade.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, then?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “Don't know—may be anything. But I suspect it is the sequel of the + story of the statues. In that case our friend, the image-breaker, has + begun operations in another quarter of London. There's coffee on the + table, Watson, and I have a cab at the door.” + </p> + <p> + In half an hour we had reached Pitt Street, a quiet little backwater just + beside one of the briskest currents of London life. No. 131 was one of a + row, all flat-chested, respectable, and most unromantic dwellings. As we + drove up we found the railings in front of the house lined by a curious + crowd. Holmes whistled. + </p> + <p> + “By George! it's attempted murder at the least. Nothing less will hold the + London message-boy. There's a deed of violence indicated in that fellow's + round shoulders and outstretched neck. What's this, Watson? The top steps + swilled down and the other ones dry. Footsteps enough, anyhow! Well, well, + there's Lestrade at the front window, and we shall soon know all about + it.” + </p> + <p> + The official received us with a very grave face and showed us into a + sitting-room, where an exceedingly unkempt and agitated elderly man, clad + in a flannel dressing-gown, was pacing up and down. He was introduced to + us as the owner of the house—Mr. Horace Harker, of the Central Press + Syndicate. + </p> + <p> + “It's the Napoleon bust business again,” said Lestrade. “You seemed + interested last night, Mr. Holmes, so I thought perhaps you would be glad + to be present now that the affair has taken a very much graver turn.” + </p> + <p> + “What has it turned to, then?” + </p> + <p> + “To murder. Mr. Harker, will you tell these gentlemen exactly what has + occurred?” + </p> + <p> + The man in the dressing-gown turned upon us with a most melancholy face. + </p> + <p> + “It's an extraordinary thing,” said he, “that all my life I have been + collecting other people's news, and now that a real piece of news has come + my own way I am so confused and bothered that I can't put two words + together. If I had come in here as a journalist I should have interviewed + myself and had two columns in every evening paper. As it is I am giving + away valuable copy by telling my story over and over to a string of + different people, and I can make no use of it myself. However, I've heard + your name, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, and if you'll only explain this queer + business I shall be paid for my trouble in telling you the story.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes sat down and listened. + </p> + <p> + “It all seems to centre round that bust of Napoleon which I bought for + this very room about four months ago. I picked it up cheap from Harding + Brothers, two doors from the High Street Station. A great deal of my + journalistic work is done at night, and I often write until the early + morning. So it was to-day. I was sitting in my den, which is at the back + of the top of the house, about three o'clock, when I was convinced that I + heard some sounds downstairs. I listened, but they were not repeated, and + I concluded that they came from outside. Then suddenly, about five minutes + later, there came a most horrible yell—the most dreadful sound, Mr. + Holmes, that ever I heard. It will ring in my ears as long as I live. I + sat frozen with horror for a minute or two. Then I seized the poker and + went downstairs. When I entered this room I found the window wide open, + and I at once observed that the bust was gone from the mantelpiece. Why + any burglar should take such a thing passes my understanding, for it was + only a plaster cast and of no real value whatever. + </p> + <p> + “You can see for yourself that anyone going out through that open window + could reach the front doorstep by taking a long stride. This was clearly + what the burglar had done, so I went round and opened the door. Stepping + out into the dark I nearly fell over a dead man who was lying there. I ran + back for a light, and there was the poor fellow, a great gash in his + throat and the whole place swimming in blood. He lay on his back, his + knees drawn up, and his mouth horribly open. I shall see him in my dreams. + I had just time to blow on my police-whistle, and then I must have + fainted, for I knew nothing more until I found the policeman standing over + me in the hall.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, who was the murdered man?” asked Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “There's nothing to show who he was,” said Lestrade. “You shall see the + body at the mortuary, but we have made nothing of it up to now. He is a + tall man, sunburned, very powerful, not more than thirty. He is poorly + dressed, and yet does not appear to be a labourer. A horn-handled clasp + knife was lying in a pool of blood beside him. Whether it was the weapon + which did the deed, or whether it belonged to the dead man, I do not know. + There was no name on his clothing, and nothing in his pockets save an + apple, some string, a shilling map of London, and a photograph. Here it + is.” + </p> + <p> + It was evidently taken by a snap-shot from a small camera. It represented + an alert, sharp-featured simian man with thick eyebrows, and a very + peculiar projection of the lower part of the face like the muzzle of a + baboon. + </p> + <p> + “And what became of the bust?” asked Holmes, after a careful study of this + picture. + </p> + <p> + “We had news of it just before you came. It has been found in the front + garden of an empty house in Campden House Road. It was broken into + fragments. I am going round now to see it. Will you come?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. I must just take one look round.” He examined the carpet and + the window. “The fellow had either very long legs or was a most active + man,” said he. “With an area beneath, it was no mean feat to reach that + window-ledge and open that window. Getting back was comparatively simple. + Are you coming with us to see the remains of your bust, Mr. Harker?” + </p> + <p> + The disconsolate journalist had seated himself at a writing-table. + </p> + <p> + “I must try and make something of it,” said he, “though I have no doubt + that the first editions of the evening papers are out already with full + details. It's like my luck! You remember when the stand fell at Doncaster? + Well, I was the only journalist in the stand, and my journal the only one + that had no account of it, for I was too shaken to write it. And now I'll + be too late with a murder done on my own doorstep.” + </p> + <p> + As we left the room we heard his pen travelling shrilly over the foolscap. + </p> + <p> + The spot where the fragments of the bust had been found was only a few + hundred yards away. For the first time our eyes rested upon this + presentment of the great Emperor, which seemed to raise such frantic and + destructive hatred in the mind of the unknown. It lay scattered in + splintered shards upon the grass. Holmes picked up several of them and + examined them carefully. I was convinced from his intent face and his + purposeful manner that at last he was upon a clue. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” asked Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + Holmes shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “We have a long way to go yet,” said he. “And yet—and yet—well, + we have some suggestive facts to act upon. The possession of this trifling + bust was worth more in the eyes of this strange criminal than a human + life. That is one point. Then there is the singular fact that he did not + break it in the house, or immediately outside the house, if to break it + was his sole object.” + </p> + <p> + “He was rattled and bustled by meeting this other fellow. He hardly knew + what he was doing.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that's likely enough. But I wish to call your attention very + particularly to the position of this house in the garden of which the bust + was destroyed.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade looked about him. + </p> + <p> + “It was an empty house, and so he knew that he would not be disturbed in + the garden.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but there is another empty house farther up the street which he must + have passed before he came to this one. Why did he not break it there, + since it is evident that every yard that he carried it increased the risk + of someone meeting him?” + </p> + <p> + “I give it up,” said Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + Holmes pointed to the street lamp above our heads. + </p> + <p> + “He could see what he was doing here and he could not there. That was his + reason.” + </p> + <p> + “By Jove! that's true,” said the detective. “Now that I come to think of + it, Dr. Barnicot's bust was broken not far from his red lamp. Well, Mr. + Holmes, what are we to do with that fact?” + </p> + <p> + “To remember it—to docket it. We may come on something later which + will bear upon it. What steps do you propose to take now, Lestrade?” + </p> + <p> + “The most practical way of getting at it, in my opinion, is to identify + the dead man. There should be no difficulty about that. When we have found + who he is and who his associates are, we should have a good start in + learning what he was doing in Pitt Street last night, and who it was who + met him and killed him on the doorstep of Mr. Horace Harker. Don't you + think so?” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt; and yet it is not quite the way in which I should approach the + case.” + </p> + <p> + “What would you do, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you must not let me influence you in any way! I suggest that you go + on your line and I on mine. We can compare notes afterwards, and each will + supplement the other.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + “If you are going back to Pitt Street you might see Mr. Horace Harker. + Tell him from me that I have quite made up my mind, and that it is certain + that a dangerous homicidal lunatic with Napoleonic delusions was in his + house last night. It will be useful for his article.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade stared. + </p> + <p> + “You don't seriously believe that?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Don't I? Well, perhaps I don't. But I am sure that it will interest Mr. + Horace Harker and the subscribers of the Central Press Syndicate. Now, + Watson, I think that we shall find that we have a long and rather complex + day's work before us. I should be glad, Lestrade, if you could make it + convenient to meet us at Baker Street at six o'clock this evening. Until + then I should like to keep this photograph found in the dead man's pocket. + It is possible that I may have to ask your company and assistance upon a + small expedition which will have be undertaken to-night, if my chain of + reasoning should prove to be correct. Until then, good-bye and good luck!” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes and I walked together to the High Street, where he stopped + at the shop of Harding Brothers, whence the bust had been purchased. A + young assistant informed us that Mr. Harding would be absent until after + noon, and that he was himself a newcomer who could give us no information. + Holmes's face showed his disappointment and annoyance. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, we can't expect to have it all our own way, Watson,” he said, + at last. “We must come back in the afternoon if Mr. Harding will not be + here until then. I am, as you have no doubt surmised, endeavouring to + trace these busts to their source, in order to find if there is not + something peculiar which may account for their remarkable fate. Let us + make for Mr. Morse Hudson, of the Kennington Road, and see if he can throw + any light upon the problem.” + </p> + <p> + A drive of an hour brought us to the picture-dealer's establishment. He + was a small, stout man with a red face and a peppery manner. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. On my very counter, sir,” said he. “What we pay rates and taxes + for I don't know, when any ruffian can come in and break one's goods. Yes, + sir, it was I who sold Dr. Barnicot his two statues. Disgraceful, sir! A + Nihilist plot, that's what I make it. No one but an Anarchist would go + about breaking statues. Red republicans, that's what I call 'em. Who did I + get the statues from? I don't see what that has to do with it. Well, if + you really want to know, I got them from Gelder and Co., in Church Street, + Stepney. They are a well-known house in the trade, and have been this + twenty years. How many had I? Three—two and one are three—two + of Dr. Barnicot's and one smashed in broad daylight on my own counter. Do + I know that photograph? No, I don't. Yes, I do, though. Why, it's Beppo. + He was a kind of Italian piece-work man, who made himself useful in the + shop. He could carve a bit and gild and frame, and do odd jobs. The fellow + left me last week, and I've heard nothing of him since. No, I don't know + where he came from nor where he went to. I have nothing against him while + he was here. He was gone two days before the bust was smashed.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that's all we could reasonably expect to get from Morse Hudson,” + said Holmes, as we emerged from the shop. “We have this Beppo as a common + factor, both in Kennington and in Kensington, so that is worth a ten-mile + drive. Now, Watson, let us make for Gelder and Co., of Stepney, the source + and origin of busts. I shall be surprised if we don't get some help down + there.” + </p> + <p> + In rapid succession we passed through the fringe of fashionable London, + hotel London, theatrical London, literary London, commercial London, and, + finally, maritime London, till we came to a riverside city of a hundred + thousand souls, where the tenement houses swelter and reek with the + outcasts of Europe. Here, in a broad thoroughfare, once the abode of + wealthy City merchants, we found the sculpture works for which we + searched. Outside was a considerable yard full of monumental masonry. + Inside was a large room in which fifty workers were carving or moulding. + The manager, a big blond German, received us civilly, and gave a clear + answer to all Holmes's questions. A reference to his books showed that + hundreds of casts had been taken from a marble copy of Devine's head of + Napoleon, but that the three which had been sent to Morse Hudson a year or + so before had been half of a batch of six, the other three being sent to + Harding Brothers, of Kensington. There was no reason why those six should + be different to any of the other casts. He could suggest no possible cause + why anyone should wish to destroy them—in fact, he laughed at the + idea. Their wholesale price was six shillings, but the retailer would get + twelve or more. The cast was taken in two moulds from each side of the + face, and then these two profiles of plaster of Paris were joined together + to make the complete bust. The work was usually done by Italians in the + room we were in. When finished the busts were put on a table in the + passage to dry, and afterwards stored. That was all he could tell us. + </p> + <p> + But the production of the photograph had a remarkable effect upon the + manager. His face flushed with anger, and his brows knotted over his blue + Teutonic eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, the rascal!” he cried. “Yes, indeed, I know him very well. This has + always been a respectable establishment, and the only time that we have + ever had the police in it was over this very fellow. It was more than a + year ago now. He knifed another Italian in the street, and then he came to + the works with the police on his heels, and he was taken here. Beppo was + his name—his second name I never knew. Serve me right for engaging a + man with such a face. But he was a good workman, one of the best.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he get?” + </p> + <p> + “The man lived and he got off with a year. I have no doubt he is out now; + but he has not dared to show his nose here. We have a cousin of his here, + and I dare say he could tell you where he is.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” cried Holmes, “not a word to the cousin—not a word, I beg + you. The matter is very important, and the farther I go with it the more + important it seems to grow. When you referred in your ledger to the sale + of those casts I observed that the date was June 3rd of last year. Could + you give me the date when Beppo was arrested?” + </p> + <p> + “I could tell you roughly by the pay-list,” the manager answered. “Yes,” + he continued, after some turning over of pages, “he was paid last on May + 20th.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said Holmes. “I don't think that I need intrude upon your + time and patience any more.” With a last word of caution that he should + say nothing as to our researches we turned our faces westward once more. + </p> + <p> + The afternoon was far advanced before we were able to snatch a hasty + luncheon at a restaurant. A news-bill at the entrance announced + “Kensington Outrage. Murder by a Madman,” and the contents of the paper + showed that Mr. Horace Harker had got his account into print after all. + Two columns were occupied with a highly sensational and flowery rendering + of the whole incident. Holmes propped it against the cruet-stand and read + it while he ate. Once or twice he chuckled. + </p> + <p> + “This is all right, Watson,” said he. “Listen to this: 'It is satisfactory + to know that there can be no difference of opinion upon this case, since + Mr. Lestrade, one of the most experienced members of the official force, + and Mr. Sherlock Holmes, the well-known consulting expert, have each come + to the conclusion that the grotesque series of incidents, which have ended + in so tragic a fashion, arise from lunacy rather than from deliberate + crime. No explanation save mental aberration can cover the facts.' The + Press, Watson, is a most valuable institution if you only know how to use + it. And now, if you have quite finished, we will hark back to Kensington + and see what the manager of Harding Brothers has to say to the matter.” + </p> + <p> + The founder of that great emporium proved to be a brisk, crisp little + person, very dapper and quick, with a clear head and a ready tongue. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, I have already read the account in the evening papers. Mr. + Horace Harker is a customer of ours. We supplied him with the bust some + months ago. We ordered three busts of that sort from Gelder and Co., of + Stepney. They are all sold now. To whom? Oh, I dare say by consulting our + sales book we could very easily tell you. Yes, we have the entries here. + One to Mr. Harker, you see, and one to Mr. Josiah Brown, of Laburnum + Lodge, Laburnum Vale, Chiswick, and one to Mr. Sandeford, of Lower Grove + Road, Reading. No, I have never seen this face which you show me in the + photograph. You would hardly forget it, would you, sir, for I've seldom + seen an uglier. Have we any Italians on the staff? Yes, sir, we have + several among our workpeople and cleaners. I dare say they might get a + peep at that sales book if they wanted to. There is no particular reason + for keeping a watch upon that book. Well, well, it's a very strange + business, and I hope that you'll let me know if anything comes of your + inquiries.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had taken several notes during Mr. Harding's evidence, and I could + see that he was thoroughly satisfied by the turn which affairs were + taking. He made no remark, however, save that, unless we hurried, we + should be late for our appointment with Lestrade. Sure enough, when we + reached Baker Street the detective was already there, and we found him + pacing up and down in a fever of impatience. His look of importance showed + that his day's work had not been in vain. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he asked. “What luck, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “We have had a very busy day, and not entirely a wasted one,” my friend + explained. “We have seen both the retailers and also the wholesale + manufacturers. I can trace each of the busts now from the beginning.” + </p> + <p> + “The busts!” cried Lestrade. “Well, well, you have your own methods, Mr. + Sherlock Holmes, and it is not for me to say a word against them, but I + think I have done a better day's work than you. I have identified the dead + man.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't say so?” + </p> + <p> + “And found a cause for the crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Splendid!” + </p> + <p> + “We have an inspector who makes a specialty of Saffron Hill and the + Italian quarter. Well, this dead man had some Catholic emblem round his + neck, and that, along with his colour, made me think he was from the + South. Inspector Hill knew him the moment he caught sight of him. His name + is Pietro Venucci, from Naples, and he is one of the greatest cut-throats + in London. He is connected with the Mafia, which, as you know, is a secret + political society, enforcing its decrees by murder. Now you see how the + affair begins to clear up. The other fellow is probably an Italian also, + and a member of the Mafia. He has broken the rules in some fashion. Pietro + is set upon his track. Probably the photograph we found in his pocket is + the man himself, so that he may not knife the wrong person. He dogs the + fellow, he sees him enter a house, he waits outside for him, and in the + scuffle he receives his own death-wound. How is that, Mr. Sherlock + Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes clapped his hands approvingly. + </p> + <p> + “Excellent, Lestrade, excellent!” he cried. “But I didn't quite follow + your explanation of the destruction of the busts.” + </p> + <p> + “The busts! You never can get those busts out of your head. After all, + that is nothing; petty larceny, six months at the most. It is the murder + that we are really investigating, and I tell you that I am gathering all + the threads into my hands.” + </p> + <p> + “And the next stage?” + </p> + <p> + “Is a very simple one. I shall go down with Hill to the Italian quarter, + find the man whose photograph we have got, and arrest him on the charge of + murder. Will you come with us?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not. I fancy we can attain our end in a simpler way. I can't say + for certain, because it all depends—well, it all depends upon a + factor which is completely outside our control. But I have great hopes—in + fact, the betting is exactly two to one—that if you will come with + us to-night I shall be able to help you to lay him by the heels.” + </p> + <p> + “In the Italian quarter?” + </p> + <p> + “No; I fancy Chiswick is an address which is more likely to find him. If + you will come with me to Chiswick to-night, Lestrade, I'll promise to go + to the Italian quarter with you to-morrow, and no harm will be done by the + delay. And now I think that a few hours' sleep would do us all good, for I + do not propose to leave before eleven o'clock, and it is unlikely that we + shall be back before morning. You'll dine with us, Lestrade, and then you + are welcome to the sofa until it is time for us to start. In the meantime, + Watson, I should be glad if you would ring for an express messenger, for I + have a letter to send, and it is important that it should go at once.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes spent the evening in rummaging among the files of the old daily + papers with which one of our lumber-rooms was packed. When at last he + descended it was with triumph in his eyes, but he said nothing to either + of us as to the result of his researches. For my own part, I had followed + step by step the methods by which he had traced the various windings of + this complex case, and, though I could not yet perceive the goal which we + would reach, I understood clearly that Holmes expected this grotesque + criminal to make an attempt upon the two remaining busts, one of which, I + remembered, was at Chiswick. No doubt the object of our journey was to + catch him in the very act, and I could not but admire the cunning with + which my friend had inserted a wrong clue in the evening paper, so as to + give the fellow the idea that he could continue his scheme with impunity. + I was not surprised when Holmes suggested that I should take my revolver + with me. He had himself picked up the loaded hunting-crop which was his + favourite weapon. + </p> + <p> + A four-wheeler was at the door at eleven, and in it we drove to a spot at + the other side of Hammersmith Bridge. Here the cabman was directed to + wait. A short walk brought us to a secluded road fringed with pleasant + houses, each standing in its own grounds. In the light of a street lamp we + read “Laburnum Villa” upon the gate-post of one of them. The occupants had + evidently retired to rest, for all was dark save for a fanlight over the + hall door, which shed a single blurred circle on to the garden path. The + wooden fence which separated the grounds from the road threw a dense black + shadow upon the inner side, and here it was that we crouched. + </p> + <p> + “I fear that you'll have a long wait,” Holmes whispered. “We may thank our + stars that it is not raining. I don't think we can even venture to smoke + to pass the time. However, it's a two to one chance that we get something + to pay us for our trouble.” + </p> + <p> + It proved, however, that our vigil was not to be so long as Holmes had led + us to fear, and it ended in a very sudden and singular fashion. In an + instant, without the least sound to warn us of his coming, the garden gate + swung open, and a lithe, dark figure, as swift and active as an ape, + rushed up the garden path. We saw it whisk past the light thrown from over + the door and disappear against the black shadow of the house. There was a + long pause, during which we held our breath, and then a very gentle + creaking sound came to our ears. The window was being opened. The noise + ceased, and again there was a long silence. The fellow was making his way + into the house. We saw the sudden flash of a dark lantern inside the room. + What he sought was evidently not there, for again we saw the flash through + another blind, and then through another. + </p> + <p> + “Let us get to the open window. We will nab him as he climbs out,” + Lestrade whispered. + </p> + <p> + But before we could move the man had emerged again. As he came out into + the glimmering patch of light we saw that he carried something white under + his arm. He looked stealthily all round him. The silence of the deserted + street reassured him. Turning his back upon us he laid down his burden, + and the next instant there was the sound of a sharp tap, followed by a + clatter and rattle. The man was so intent upon what he was doing that he + never heard our steps as we stole across the grass plot. With the bound of + a tiger Holmes was on his back, and an instant later Lestrade and I had + him by either wrist and the handcuffs had been fastened. As we turned him + over I saw a hideous, sallow face, with writhing, furious features, + glaring up at us, and I knew that it was indeed the man of the photograph + whom we had secured. + </p> + <p> + But it was not our prisoner to whom Holmes was giving his attention. + Squatted on the doorstep, he was engaged in most carefully examining that + which the man had brought from the house. It was a bust of Napoleon like + the one which we had seen that morning, and it had been broken into + similar fragments. Carefully Holmes held each separate shard to the light, + but in no way did it differ from any other shattered piece of plaster. He + had just completed his examination when the hall lights flew up, the door + opened, and the owner of the house, a jovial, rotund figure in shirt and + trousers, presented himself. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Josiah Brown, I suppose?” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; and you, no doubt, are Mr. Sherlock Holmes? I had the note + which you sent by the express messenger, and I did exactly what you told + me. We locked every door on the inside and awaited developments. Well, I'm + very glad to see that you have got the rascal. I hope, gentlemen, that you + will come in and have some refreshment.” + </p> + <p> + However, Lestrade was anxious to get his man into safe quarters, so within + a few minutes our cab had been summoned and we were all four upon our way + to London. Not a word would our captive say; but he glared at us from the + shadow of his matted hair, and once, when my hand seemed within his reach, + he snapped at it like a hungry wolf. We stayed long enough at the + police-station to learn that a search of his clothing revealed nothing + save a few shillings and a long sheath knife, the handle of which bore + copious traces of recent blood. + </p> + <p> + “That's all right,” said Lestrade, as we parted. “Hill knows all these + gentry, and he will give a name to him. You'll find that my theory of the + Mafia will work out all right. But I'm sure I am exceedingly obliged to + you, Mr. Holmes, for the workmanlike way in which you laid hands upon him. + I don't quite understand it all yet.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear it is rather too late an hour for explanations,” said Holmes. + “Besides, there are one or two details which are not finished off, and it + is one of those cases which are worth working out to the very end. If you + will come round once more to my rooms at six o'clock to-morrow I think I + shall be able to show you that even now you have not grasped the entire + meaning of this business, which presents some features which make it + absolutely original in the history of crime. If ever I permit you to + chronicle any more of my little problems, Watson, I foresee that you will + enliven your pages by an account of the singular adventure of the + Napoleonic busts.” + </p> + <p> + When we met again next evening Lestrade was furnished with much + information concerning our prisoner. His name, it appeared, was Beppo, + second name unknown. He was a well-known ne'er-do-well among the Italian + colony. He had once been a skilful sculptor and had earned an honest + living, but he had taken to evil courses and had twice already been in + gaol—once for a petty theft and once, as we had already heard, for + stabbing a fellow-countryman. He could talk English perfectly well. His + reasons for destroying the busts were still unknown, and he refused to + answer any questions upon the subject; but the police had discovered that + these same busts might very well have been made by his own hands, since he + was engaged in this class of work at the establishment of Gelder and Co. + To all this information, much of which we already knew, Holmes listened + with polite attention; but I, who knew him so well, could clearly see that + his thoughts were elsewhere, and I detected a mixture of mingled + uneasiness and expectation beneath that mask which he was wont to assume. + At last he started in his chair and his eyes brightened. There had been a + ring at the bell. A minute later we heard steps upon the stairs, and an + elderly, red-faced man with grizzled side-whiskers was ushered in. In his + right hand he carried an old-fashioned carpet-bag, which he placed upon + the table. + </p> + <p> + “Is Mr. Sherlock Holmes here?” + </p> + <p> + My friend bowed and smiled. “Mr. Sandeford, of Reading, I suppose?” said + he. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, I fear that I am a little late; but the trains were awkward. + You wrote to me about a bust that is in my possession.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly.” + </p> + <p> + “I have your letter here. You said, 'I desire to possess a copy of + Devine's Napoleon, and am prepared to pay you ten pounds for the one which + is in your possession.' Is that right?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “I was very much surprised at your letter, for I could not imagine how you + knew that I owned such a thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you must have been surprised, but the explanation is very + simple. Mr. Harding, of Harding Brothers, said that they had sold you + their last copy, and he gave me your address.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that was it, was it? Did he tell you what I paid for it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, he did not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am an honest man, though not a very rich one. I only gave fifteen + shillings for the bust, and I think you ought to know that before I take + ten pounds from you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure the scruple does you honour, Mr. Sandeford. But I have named + that price, so I intend to stick to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is very handsome of you, Mr. Holmes. I brought the bust up with + me, as you asked me to do. Here it is!” He opened his bag, and at last we + saw placed upon our table a complete specimen of that bust which we had + already seen more than once in fragments. + </p> + <p> + Holmes took a paper from his pocket and laid a ten-pound note upon the + table. + </p> + <p> + “You will kindly sign that paper, Mr. Sandeford, in the presence of these + witnesses. It is simply to say that you transfer every possible right that + you ever had in the bust to me. I am a methodical man, you see, and you + never know what turn events might take afterwards. Thank you, Mr. + Sandeford; here is your money, and I wish you a very good evening.” + </p> + <p> + When our visitor had disappeared Sherlock Holmes's movements were such as + to rivet our attention. He began by taking a clean white cloth from a + drawer and laying it over the table. Then he placed his newly-acquired + bust in the centre of the cloth. Finally, he picked up his hunting-crop + and struck Napoleon a sharp blow on the top of the head. The figure broke + into fragments, and Holmes bent eagerly over the shattered remains. Next + instant, with a loud shout of triumph, he held up one splinter, in which a + round, dark object was fixed like a plum in a pudding. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” he cried, “let me introduce you to the famous black pearl of + the Borgias.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade and I sat silent for a moment, and then, with a spontaneous + impulse, we both broke out clapping as at the well-wrought crisis of a + play. A flush of colour sprang to Holmes's pale cheeks, and he bowed to us + like the master dramatist who receives the homage of his audience. It was + at such moments that for an instant he ceased to be a reasoning machine, + and betrayed his human love for admiration and applause. The same + singularly proud and reserved nature which turned away with disdain from + popular notoriety was capable of being moved to its depths by spontaneous + wonder and praise from a friend. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, gentlemen,” said he, “it is the most famous pearl now existing in + the world, and it has been my good fortune, by a connected chain of + inductive reasoning, to trace it from the Prince of Colonna's bedroom at + the Dacre Hotel, where it was lost, to the interior of this, the last of + the six busts of Napoleon which were manufactured by Gelder and Co., of + Stepney. You will remember, Lestrade, the sensation caused by the + disappearance of this valuable jewel, and the vain efforts of the London + police to recover it. I was myself consulted upon the case; but I was + unable to throw any light upon it. Suspicion fell upon the maid of the + Princess, who was an Italian, and it was proved that she had a brother in + London, but we failed to trace any connection between them. The maid's + name was Lucretia Venucci, and there is no doubt in my mind that this + Pietro who was murdered two nights ago was the brother. I have been + looking up the dates in the old files of the paper, and I find that the + disappearance of the pearl was exactly two days before the arrest of Beppo + for some crime of violence, an event which took place in the factory of + Gelder and Co., at the very moment when these busts were being made. Now + you clearly see the sequence of events, though you see them, of course, in + the inverse order to the way in which they presented themselves to me. + Beppo had the pearl in his possession. He may have stolen it from Pietro, + he may have been Pietro's confederate, he may have been the go-between of + Pietro and his sister. It is of no consequence to us which is the correct + solution. + </p> + <p> + “The main fact is that he HAD the pearl, and at that moment, when it was + on his person, he was pursued by the police. He made for the factory in + which he worked, and he knew that he had only a few minutes in which to + conceal this enormously valuable prize, which would otherwise be found on + him when he was searched. Six plaster casts of Napoleon were drying in the + passage. One of them was still soft. In an instant Beppo, a skilful + workman, made a small hole in the wet plaster, dropped in the pearl, and + with a few touches covered over the aperture once more. It was an + admirable hiding-place. No one could possibly find it. But Beppo was + condemned to a year's imprisonment, and in the meanwhile his six busts + were scattered over London. He could not tell which contained his + treasure. Only by breaking them could he see. Even shaking would tell him + nothing, for as the plaster was wet it was probable that the pearl would + adhere to it—as, in fact, it has done. Beppo did not despair, and he + conducted his search with considerable ingenuity and perseverance. Through + a cousin who works with Gelder he found out the retail firms who had + bought the busts. He managed to find employment with Morse Hudson, and in + that way tracked down three of them. The pearl was not there. Then, with + the help of some Italian EMPLOYEE, he succeeded in finding out where the + other three busts had gone. The first was at Harker's. There he was dogged + by his confederate, who held Beppo responsible for the loss of the pearl, + and he stabbed him in the scuffle which followed.” + </p> + <p> + “If he was his confederate why should he carry his photograph?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “As a means of tracing him if he wished to inquire about him from any + third person. That was the obvious reason. Well, after the murder I + calculated that Beppo would probably hurry rather than delay his + movements. He would fear that the police would read his secret, and so he + hastened on before they should get ahead of him. Of course, I could not + say that he had not found the pearl in Harker's bust. I had not even + concluded for certain that it was the pearl; but it was evident to me that + he was looking for something, since he carried the bust past the other + houses in order to break it in the garden which had a lamp overlooking it. + Since Harker's bust was one in three the chances were exactly as I told + you, two to one against the pearl being inside it. There remained two + busts, and it was obvious that he would go for the London one first. I + warned the inmates of the house, so as to avoid a second tragedy, and we + went down with the happiest results. By that time, of course, I knew for + certain that it was the Borgia pearl that we were after. The name of the + murdered man linked the one event with the other. There only remained a + single bust—the Reading one—and the pearl must be there. I + bought it in your presence from the owner—and there it lies.” + </p> + <p> + We sat in silence for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Lestrade, “I've seen you handle a good many cases, Mr. + Holmes, but I don't know that I ever knew a more workmanlike one than + that. We're not jealous of you at Scotland Yard. No, sir, we are very + proud of you, and if you come down to-morrow there's not a man, from the + oldest inspector to the youngest constable, who wouldn't be glad to shake + you by the hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said Holmes. “Thank you!” and as he turned away it seemed to + me that he was more nearly moved by the softer human emotions than I had + ever seen him. A moment later he was the cold and practical thinker once + more. “Put the pearl in the safe, Watson,” said he, “and get out the + papers of the Conk-Singleton forgery case. Good-bye, Lestrade. If any + little problem comes your way I shall be happy, if I can, to give you a + hint or two as to its solution.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 27 JUNE, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0009" id="link2H_4_0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + IX.—The Adventure of the Three Students. + </h2> + <p> + IT was in the year '95 that a combination of events, into which I need not + enter, caused Mr. Sherlock Holmes and myself to spend some weeks in one of + our great University towns, and it was during this time that the small but + instructive adventure which I am about to relate befell us. It will be + obvious that any details which would help the reader to exactly identify + the college or the criminal would be injudicious and offensive. So painful + a scandal may well be allowed to die out. With due discretion the incident + itself may, however, be described, since it serves to illustrate some of + those qualities for which my friend was remarkable. I will endeavour in my + statement to avoid such terms as would serve to limit the events to any + particular place, or give a clue as to the people concerned. + </p> + <p> + We were residing at the time in furnished lodgings close to a library + where Sherlock Holmes was pursuing some laborious researches in early + English charters—researches which led to results so striking that + they may be the subject of one of my future narratives. Here it was that + one evening we received a visit from an acquaintance, Mr. Hilton Soames, + tutor and lecturer at the College of St. Luke's. Mr. Soames was a tall, + spare man, of a nervous and excitable temperament. I had always known him + to be restless in his manner, but on this particular occasion he was in + such a state of uncontrollable agitation that it was clear something very + unusual had occurred. + </p> + <p> + “I trust, Mr. Holmes, that you can spare me a few hours of your valuable + time. We have had a very painful incident at St. Luke's, and really, but + for the happy chance of your being in the town, I should have been at a + loss what to do.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very busy just now, and I desire no distractions,” my friend + answered. “I should much prefer that you called in the aid of the police.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, my dear sir; such a course is utterly impossible. When once the + law is evoked it cannot be stayed again, and this is just one of those + cases where, for the credit of the college, it is most essential to avoid + scandal. Your discretion is as well known as your powers, and you are the + one man in the world who can help me. I beg you, Mr. Holmes, to do what + you can.” + </p> + <p> + My friend's temper had not improved since he had been deprived of the + congenial surroundings of Baker Street. Without his scrap-books, his + chemicals, and his homely untidiness, he was an uncomfortable man. He + shrugged his shoulders in ungracious acquiescence, while our visitor in + hurried words and with much excitable gesticulation poured forth his + story. + </p> + <p> + “I must explain to you, Mr. Holmes, that to-morrow is the first day of the + examination for the Fortescue Scholarship. I am one of the examiners. My + subject is Greek, and the first of the papers consists of a large passage + of Greek translation which the candidate has not seen. This passage is + printed on the examination paper, and it would naturally be an immense + advantage if the candidate could prepare it in advance. For this reason + great care is taken to keep the paper secret. + </p> + <p> + “To-day about three o'clock the proofs of this paper arrived from the + printers. The exercise consists of half a chapter of Thucydides. I had to + read it over carefully, as the text must be absolutely correct. At + four-thirty my task was not yet completed. I had, however, promised to + take tea in a friend's rooms, so I left the proof upon my desk. I was + absent rather more than an hour. + </p> + <p> + “You are aware, Mr. Holmes, that our college doors are double—a + green baize one within and a heavy oak one without. As I approached my + outer door I was amazed to see a key in it. For an instant I imagined that + I had left my own there, but on feeling in my pocket I found that it was + all right. The only duplicate which existed, so far as I knew, was that + which belonged to my servant, Bannister, a man who has looked after my + room for ten years, and whose honesty is absolutely above suspicion. I + found that the key was indeed his, that he had entered my room to know if + I wanted tea, and that he had very carelessly left the key in the door + when he came out. His visit to my room must have been within a very few + minutes of my leaving it. His forgetfulness about the key would have + mattered little upon any other occasion, but on this one day it has + produced the most deplorable consequences. + </p> + <p> + “The moment I looked at my table I was aware that someone had rummaged + among my papers. The proof was in three long slips. I had left them all + together. Now, I found that one of them was lying on the floor, one was on + the side table near the window, and the third was where I had left it.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes stirred for the first time. + </p> + <p> + “The first page on the floor, the second in the window, the third where + you left it,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly, Mr. Holmes. You amaze me. How could you possibly know that?” + </p> + <p> + “Pray continue your very interesting statement.” + </p> + <p> + “For an instant I imagined that Bannister had taken the unpardonable + liberty of examining my papers. He denied it, however, with the utmost + earnestness, and I am convinced that he was speaking the truth. The + alternative was that someone passing had observed the key in the door, had + known that I was out, and had entered to look at the papers. A large sum + of money is at stake, for the scholarship is a very valuable one, and an + unscrupulous man might very well run a risk in order to gain an advantage + over his fellows. + </p> + <p> + “Bannister was very much upset by the incident. He had nearly fainted when + we found that the papers had undoubtedly been tampered with. I gave him a + little brandy and left him collapsed in a chair while I made a most + careful examination of the room. I soon saw that the intruder had left + other traces of his presence besides the rumpled papers. On the table in + the window were several shreds from a pencil which had been sharpened. A + broken tip of lead was lying there also. Evidently the rascal had copied + the paper in a great hurry, had broken his pencil, and had been compelled + to put a fresh point to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent!” said Holmes, who was recovering his good-humour as his + attention became more engrossed by the case. “Fortune has been your + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “This was not all. I have a new writing-table with a fine surface of red + leather. I am prepared to swear, and so is Bannister, that it was smooth + and unstained. Now I found a clean cut in it about three inches long—not + a mere scratch, but a positive cut. Not only this, but on the table I + found a small ball of black dough, or clay, with specks of something which + looks like sawdust in it. I am convinced that these marks were left by the + man who rifled the papers. There were no footmarks and no other evidence + as to his identity. I was at my wits' ends, when suddenly the happy + thought occurred to me that you were in the town, and I came straight + round to put the matter into your hands. Do help me, Mr. Holmes! You see + my dilemma. Either I must find the man or else the examination must be + postponed until fresh papers are prepared, and since this cannot be done + without explanation there will ensue a hideous scandal, which will throw a + cloud not only on the college, but on the University. Above all things I + desire to settle the matter quietly and discreetly.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be happy to look into it and to give you such advice as I can,” + said Holmes, rising and putting on his overcoat. “The case is not entirely + devoid of interest. Had anyone visited you in your room after the papers + came to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; young Daulat Ras, an Indian student who lives on the same stair, + came in to ask me some particulars about the examination.” + </p> + <p> + “For which he was entered?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And the papers were on your table?” + </p> + <p> + “To the best of my belief they were rolled up.” + </p> + <p> + “But might be recognised as proofs?” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly.” + </p> + <p> + “No one else in your room?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Did anyone know that these proofs would be there?” + </p> + <p> + “No one save the printer.” + </p> + <p> + “Did this man Bannister know?” + </p> + <p> + “No, certainly not. No one knew.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is Bannister now?” + </p> + <p> + “He was very ill, poor fellow. I left him collapsed in the chair. I was in + such a hurry to come to you.” + </p> + <p> + “You left your door open?” + </p> + <p> + “I locked up the papers first.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it amounts to this, Mr. Soames, that unless the Indian student + recognised the roll as being proofs, the man who tampered with them came + upon them accidentally without knowing that they were there.” + </p> + <p> + “So it seems to me.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes gave an enigmatic smile. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, “let us go round. Not one of your cases, Watson—mental, + not physical. All right; come if you want to. Now, Mr. Soames—at + your disposal!” + </p> + <p> + The sitting-room of our client opened by a long, low, latticed window on + to the ancient lichen-tinted court of the old college. A Gothic arched + door led to a worn stone staircase. On the ground floor was the tutor's + room. Above were three students, one on each story. It was already + twilight when we reached the scene of our problem. Holmes halted and + looked earnestly at the window. Then he approached it, and, standing on + tiptoe with his neck craned, he looked into the room. + </p> + <p> + “He must have entered through the door. There is no opening except the one + pane,” said our learned guide. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” said Holmes, and he smiled in a singular way as he glanced at + our companion. “Well, if there is nothing to be learned here we had best + go inside.” + </p> + <p> + The lecturer unlocked the outer door and ushered us into his room. We + stood at the entrance while Holmes made an examination of the carpet. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid there are no signs here,” said he. “One could hardly hope for + any upon so dry a day. Your servant seems to have quite recovered. You + left him in a chair, you say; which chair?” + </p> + <p> + “By the window there.” + </p> + <p> + “I see. Near this little table. You can come in now. I have finished with + the carpet. Let us take the little table first. Of course, what has + happened is very clear. The man entered and took the papers, sheet by + sheet, from the central table. He carried them over to the window table, + because from there he could see if you came across the courtyard, and so + could effect an escape.” + </p> + <p> + “As a matter of fact he could not,” said Soames, “for I entered by the + side door.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, that's good! Well, anyhow, that was in his mind. Let me see the three + strips. No finger impressions—no! Well, he carried over this one + first and he copied it. How long would it take him to do that, using every + possible contraction? A quarter of an hour, not less. Then he tossed it + down and seized the next. He was in the midst of that when your return + caused him to make a very hurried retreat—VERY hurried, since he had + not time to replace the papers which would tell you that he had been + there. You were not aware of any hurrying feet on the stair as you entered + the outer door?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I can't say I was.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he wrote so furiously that he broke his pencil, and had, as you + observe, to sharpen it again. This is of interest, Watson. The pencil was + not an ordinary one. It was above the usual size, with a soft lead; the + outer colour was dark blue, the maker's name was printed in silver + lettering, and the piece remaining is only about an inch and a half long. + Look for such a pencil, Mr. Soames, and you have got your man. When I add + that he possesses a large and very blunt knife, you have an additional + aid.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Soames was somewhat overwhelmed by this flood of information. “I can + follow the other points,” said he, “but really, in this matter of the + length——” + </p> + <p> + Holmes held out a small chip with the letters NN and a space of clear wood + after them. + </p> + <p> + “You see?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I fear that even now——” + </p> + <p> + “Watson, I have always done you an injustice. There are others. What could + this NN be? It is at the end of a word. You are aware that Johann Faber is + the most common maker's name. Is it not clear that there is just as much + of the pencil left as usually follows the Johann?” He held the small table + sideways to the electric light. “I was hoping that if the paper on which + he wrote was thin some trace of it might come through upon this polished + surface. No, I see nothing. I don't think there is anything more to be + learned here. Now for the central table. This small pellet is, I presume, + the black, doughy mass you spoke of. Roughly pyramidal in shape and + hollowed out, I perceive. As you say, there appear to be grains of sawdust + in it. Dear me, this is very interesting. And the cut—a positive + tear, I see. It began with a thin scratch and ended in a jagged hole. I am + much indebted to you for directing my attention to this case, Mr. Soames. + Where does that door lead to?” + </p> + <p> + “To my bedroom.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you been in it since your adventure?” + </p> + <p> + “No; I came straight away for you.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to have a glance round. What a charming, old-fashioned + room! Perhaps you will kindly wait a minute until I have examined the + floor. No, I see nothing. What about this curtain? You hang your clothes + behind it. If anyone were forced to conceal himself in this room he must + do it there, since the bed is too low and the wardrobe too shallow. No one + there, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + As Holmes drew the curtain I was aware, from some little rigidity and + alertness of his attitude, that he was prepared for an emergency. As a + matter of fact the drawn curtain disclosed nothing but three or four suits + of clothes hanging from a line of pegs. Holmes turned away and stooped + suddenly to the floor. + </p> + <p> + “Halloa! What's this?” said he. + </p> + <p> + It was a small pyramid of black, putty-like stuff, exactly like the one + upon the table of the study. Holmes held it out on his open palm in the + glare of the electric light. + </p> + <p> + “Your visitor seems to have left traces in your bedroom as well as in your + sitting-room, Mr. Soames.” + </p> + <p> + “What could he have wanted there?” + </p> + <p> + “I think it is clear enough. You came back by an unexpected way, and so he + had no warning until you were at the very door. What could he do? He + caught up everything which would betray him and he rushed into your + bedroom to conceal himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Good gracious, Mr. Holmes, do you mean to tell me that all the time I was + talking to Bannister in this room we had the man prisoner if we had only + known it?” + </p> + <p> + “So I read it.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely there is another alternative, Mr. Holmes. I don't know whether you + observed my bedroom window?” + </p> + <p> + “Lattice-paned, lead framework, three separate windows, one swinging on + hinge and large enough to admit a man.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. And it looks out on an angle of the courtyard so as to be partly + invisible. The man might have effected his entrance there, left traces as + he passed through the bedroom, and, finally, finding the door open have + escaped that way.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes shook his head impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “Let us be practical,” said he. “I understand you to say that there are + three students who use this stair and are in the habit of passing your + door?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there are.” + </p> + <p> + “And they are all in for this examination?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you any reason to suspect any one of them more than the others?” + </p> + <p> + Soames hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “It is a very delicate question,” said he. “One hardly likes to throw + suspicion where there are no proofs.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us hear the suspicions. I will look after the proofs.” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you, then, in a few words the character of the three men who + inhabit these rooms. The lower of the three is Gilchrist, a fine scholar + and athlete; plays in the Rugby team and the cricket team for the college, + and got his Blue for the hurdles and the long jump. He is a fine, manly + fellow. His father was the notorious Sir Jabez Gilchrist, who ruined + himself on the turf. My scholar has been left very poor, but he is + hard-working and industrious. He will do well. + </p> + <p> + “The second floor is inhabited by Daulat Ras, the Indian. He is a quiet, + inscrutable fellow, as most of those Indians are. He is well up in his + work, though his Greek is his weak subject. He is steady and methodical. + </p> + <p> + “The top floor belongs to Miles McLaren. He is a brilliant fellow when he + chooses to work—one of the brightest intellects of the University, + but he is wayward, dissipated, and unprincipled. He was nearly expelled + over a card scandal in his first year. He has been idling all this term, + and he must look forward with dread to the examination.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it is he whom you suspect?” + </p> + <p> + “I dare not go so far as that. But of the three he is perhaps the least + unlikely.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Now, Mr. Soames, let us have a look at your servant, Bannister.” + </p> + <p> + He was a little, white-faced, clean-shaven, grizzly-haired fellow of + fifty. He was still suffering from this sudden disturbance of the quiet + routine of his life. His plump face was twitching with his nervousness, + and his fingers could not keep still. + </p> + <p> + “We are investigating this unhappy business, Bannister,” said his master. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said Holmes, “that you left your key in the door?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it not very extraordinary that you should do this on the very day + when there were these papers inside?” + </p> + <p> + “It was most unfortunate, sir. But I have occasionally done the same thing + at other times.” + </p> + <p> + “When did you enter the room?” + </p> + <p> + “It was about half-past four. That is Mr. Soames's tea time.” + </p> + <p> + “How long did you stay?” + </p> + <p> + “When I saw that he was absent I withdrew at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you look at these papers on the table?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “How came you to leave the key in the door?” + </p> + <p> + “I had the tea-tray in my hand. I thought I would come back for the key. + Then I forgot.” + </p> + <p> + “Has the outer door a spring lock?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it was open all the time?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Anyone in the room could get out?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “When Mr. Soames returned and called for you, you were very much + disturbed?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. Such a thing has never happened during the many years that I + have been here. I nearly fainted, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “So I understand. Where were you when you began to feel bad?” + </p> + <p> + “Where was I, sir? Why, here, near the door.” + </p> + <p> + “That is singular, because you sat down in that chair over yonder near the + corner. Why did you pass these other chairs?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know, sir. It didn't matter to me where I sat.” + </p> + <p> + “I really don't think he knew much about it, Mr. Holmes. He was looking + very bad—quite ghastly.” + </p> + <p> + “You stayed here when your master left?” + </p> + <p> + “Only for a minute or so. Then I locked the door and went to my room.” + </p> + <p> + “Whom do you suspect?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I would not venture to say, sir. I don't believe there is any + gentleman in this University who is capable of profiting by such an + action. No, sir, I'll not believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you; that will do,” said Holmes. “Oh, one more word. You have not + mentioned to any of the three gentlemen whom you attend that anything is + amiss?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; not a word.” + </p> + <p> + “You haven't seen any of them?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. Now, Mr. Soames, we will take a walk in the quadrangle, if you + please.” + </p> + <p> + Three yellow squares of light shone above us in the gathering gloom. + </p> + <p> + “Your three birds are all in their nests,” said Holmes, looking up. + “Halloa! What's that? One of them seems restless enough.” + </p> + <p> + It was the Indian, whose dark silhouette appeared suddenly upon his blind. + He was pacing swiftly up and down his room. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to have a peep at each of them,” said Holmes. “Is it + possible?” + </p> + <p> + “No difficulty in the world,” Soames answered. “This set of rooms is quite + the oldest in the college, and it is not unusual for visitors to go over + them. Come along, and I will personally conduct you.” + </p> + <p> + “No names, please!” said Holmes, as we knocked at Gilchrist's door. A + tall, flaxen-haired, slim young fellow opened it, and made us welcome when + he understood our errand. There were some really curious pieces of + mediaeval domestic architecture within. Holmes was so charmed with one of + them that he insisted on drawing it on his note-book, broke his pencil, + had to borrow one from our host, and finally borrowed a knife to sharpen + his own. The same curious accident happened to him in the rooms of the + Indian—a silent, little, hook-nosed fellow, who eyed us askance and + was obviously glad when Holmes's architectural studies had come to an end. + I could not see that in either case Holmes had come upon the clue for + which he was searching. Only at the third did our visit prove abortive. + The outer door would not open to our knock, and nothing more substantial + than a torrent of bad language came from behind it. “I don't care who you + are. You can go to blazes!” roared the angry voice. “To-morrow's the exam, + and I won't be drawn by anyone.” + </p> + <p> + “A rude fellow,” said our guide, flushing with anger as we withdrew down + the stair. “Of course, he did not realize that it was I who was knocking, + but none the less his conduct was very uncourteous, and, indeed, under the + circumstances rather suspicious.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes's response was a curious one. + </p> + <p> + “Can you tell me his exact height?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Really, Mr. Holmes, I cannot undertake to say. He is taller than the + Indian, not so tall as Gilchrist. I suppose five foot six would be about + it.” + </p> + <p> + “That is very important,” said Holmes. “And now, Mr. Soames, I wish you + good-night.” + </p> + <p> + Our guide cried aloud in his astonishment and dismay. “Good gracious, Mr. + Holmes, you are surely not going to leave me in this abrupt fashion! You + don't seem to realize the position. To-morrow is the examination. I must + take some definite action to-night. I cannot allow the examination to be + held if one of the papers has been tampered with. The situation must be + faced.” + </p> + <p> + “You must leave it as it is. I shall drop round early to-morrow morning + and chat the matter over. It is possible that I may be in a position then + to indicate some course of action. Meanwhile you change nothing—nothing + at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “You can be perfectly easy in your mind. We shall certainly find some way + out of your difficulties. I will take the black clay with me, also the + pencil cuttings. Good-bye.” + </p> + <p> + When we were out in the darkness of the quadrangle we again looked up at + the windows. The Indian still paced his room. The others were invisible. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Watson, what do you think of it?” Holmes asked, as we came out into + the main street. “Quite a little parlour game—sort of three-card + trick, is it not? There are your three men. It must be one of them. You + take your choice. Which is yours?” + </p> + <p> + “The foul-mouthed fellow at the top. He is the one with the worst record. + And yet that Indian was a sly fellow also. Why should he be pacing his + room all the time?” + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing in that. Many men do it when they are trying to learn + anything by heart.” + </p> + <p> + “He looked at us in a queer way.” + </p> + <p> + “So would you if a flock of strangers came in on you when you were + preparing for an examination next day, and every moment was of value. No, + I see nothing in that. Pencils, too, and knives—all was + satisfactory. But that fellow DOES puzzle me.” + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Bannister, the servant. What's his game in the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “He impressed me as being a perfectly honest man.” + </p> + <p> + “So he did me. That's the puzzling part. Why should a perfectly honest man—well, + well, here's a large stationer's. We shall begin our researches here.” + </p> + <p> + There were only four stationers of any consequence in the town, and at + each Holmes produced his pencil chips and bid high for a duplicate. All + were agreed that one could be ordered, but that it was not a usual size of + pencil and that it was seldom kept in stock. My friend did not appear to + be depressed by his failure, but shrugged his shoulders in half-humorous + resignation. + </p> + <p> + “No good, my dear Watson. This, the best and only final clue, has run to + nothing. But, indeed, I have little doubt that we can build up a + sufficient case without it. By Jove! my dear fellow, it is nearly nine, + and the landlady babbled of green peas at seven-thirty. What with your + eternal tobacco, Watson, and your irregularity at meals, I expect that you + will get notice to quit and that I shall share your downfall—not, + however, before we have solved the problem of the nervous tutor, the + careless servant, and the three enterprising students.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes made no further allusion to the matter that day, though he sat lost + in thought for a long time after our belated dinner. At eight in the + morning he came into my room just as I finished my toilet. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Watson,” said he, “it is time we went down to St. Luke's. Can you + do without breakfast?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Soames will be in a dreadful fidget until we are able to tell him + something positive.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you anything positive to tell him?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so.” + </p> + <p> + “You have formed a conclusion?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear Watson; I have solved the mystery.” + </p> + <p> + “But what fresh evidence could you have got?” + </p> + <p> + “Aha! It is not for nothing that I have turned myself out of bed at the + untimely hour of six. I have put in two hours' hard work and covered at + least five miles, with something to show for it. Look at that!” + </p> + <p> + He held out his hand. On the palm were three little pyramids of black, + doughy clay. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Holmes, you had only two yesterday!” + </p> + <p> + “And one more this morning. It is a fair argument that wherever No. 3 came + from is also the source of Nos. 1 and 2. Eh, Watson? Well, come along and + put friend Soames out of his pain.” + </p> + <p> + The unfortunate tutor was certainly in a state of pitiable agitation when + we found him in his chambers. In a few hours the examination would + commence, and he was still in the dilemma between making the facts public + and allowing the culprit to compete for the valuable scholarship. He could + hardly stand still, so great was his mental agitation, and he ran towards + Holmes with two eager hands outstretched. + </p> + <p> + “Thank Heaven that you have come! I feared that you had given it up in + despair. What am I to do? Shall the examination proceed?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; let it proceed by all means.” + </p> + <p> + “But this rascal——?” + </p> + <p> + “He shall not compete.” + </p> + <p> + “You know him?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so. If this matter is not to become public we must give ourselves + certain powers, and resolve ourselves into a small private court-martial. + You there, if you please, Soames! Watson, you here! I'll take the + arm-chair in the middle. I think that we are now sufficiently imposing to + strike terror into a guilty breast. Kindly ring the bell!” + </p> + <p> + Bannister entered, and shrunk back in evident surprise and fear at our + judicial appearance. + </p> + <p> + “You will kindly close the door,” said Holmes. “Now, Bannister, will you + please tell us the truth about yesterday's incident?” + </p> + <p> + The man turned white to the roots of his hair. + </p> + <p> + “I have told you everything, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing to add?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing at all, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I must make some suggestions to you. When you sat down on + that chair yesterday, did you do so in order to conceal some object which + would have shown who had been in the room?” + </p> + <p> + Bannister's face was ghastly. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “It is only a suggestion,” said Holmes, suavely. “I frankly admit that I + am unable to prove it. But it seems probable enough, since the moment that + Mr. Soames's back was turned you released the man who was hiding in that + bedroom.” + </p> + <p> + Bannister licked his dry lips. + </p> + <p> + “There was no man, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, that's a pity, Bannister. Up to now you may have spoken the truth, + but now I know that you have lied.” + </p> + <p> + The man's face set in sullen defiance. + </p> + <p> + “There was no man, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, Bannister!” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; there was no one.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case you can give us no further information. Would you please + remain in the room? Stand over there near the bedroom door. Now, Soames, I + am going to ask you to have the great kindness to go up to the room of + young Gilchrist, and to ask him to step down into yours.” + </p> + <p> + An instant later the tutor returned, bringing with him the student. He was + a fine figure of a man, tall, lithe, and agile, with a springy step and a + pleasant, open face. His troubled blue eyes glanced at each of us, and + finally rested with an expression of blank dismay upon Bannister in the + farther corner. + </p> + <p> + “Just close the door,” said Holmes. “Now, Mr. Gilchrist, we are all quite + alone here, and no one need ever know one word of what passes between us. + We can be perfectly frank with each other. We want to know, Mr. Gilchrist, + how you, an honourable man, ever came to commit such an action as that of + yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + The unfortunate young man staggered back and cast a look full of horror + and reproach at Bannister. + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Mr. Gilchrist, sir; I never said a word—never one word!” + cried the servant. + </p> + <p> + “No, but you have now,” said Holmes. “Now, sir, you must see that after + Bannister's words your position is hopeless, and that your only chance + lies in a frank confession.” + </p> + <p> + For a moment Gilchrist, with upraised hand, tried to control his writhing + features. The next he had thrown himself on his knees beside the table + and, burying his face in his hands, he had burst into a storm of + passionate sobbing. + </p> + <p> + “Come, come,” said Holmes, kindly; “it is human to err, and at least no + one can accuse you of being a callous criminal. Perhaps it would be easier + for you if I were to tell Mr. Soames what occurred, and you can check me + where I am wrong. Shall I do so? Well, well, don't trouble to answer. + Listen, and see that I do you no injustice. + </p> + <p> + “From the moment, Mr. Soames, that you said to me that no one, not even + Bannister, could have told that the papers were in your room, the case + began to take a definite shape in my mind. The printer one could, of + course, dismiss. He could examine the papers in his own office. The Indian + I also thought nothing of. If the proofs were in a roll he could not + possibly know what they were. On the other hand, it seemed an unthinkable + coincidence that a man should dare to enter the room, and that by chance + on that very day the papers were on the table. I dismissed that. The man + who entered knew that the papers were there. How did he know? + </p> + <p> + “When I approached your room I examined the window. You amused me by + supposing that I was contemplating the possibility of someone having in + broad daylight, under the eyes of all these opposite rooms, forced himself + through it. Such an idea was absurd. I was measuring how tall a man would + need to be in order to see as he passed what papers were on the central + table. I am six feet high, and I could do it with an effort. No one less + than that would have a chance. Already you see I had reason to think that + if one of your three students was a man of unusual height he was the most + worth watching of the three. + </p> + <p> + “I entered and I took you into my confidence as to the suggestions of the + side table. Of the centre table I could make nothing, until in your + description of Gilchrist you mentioned that he was a long-distance jumper. + Then the whole thing came to me in an instant, and I only needed certain + corroborative proofs, which I speedily obtained. + </p> + <p> + “What happened was this. This young fellow had employed his afternoon at + the athletic grounds, where he had been practising the jump. He returned + carrying his jumping shoes, which are provided, as you are aware, with + several sharp spikes. As he passed your window he saw, by means of his + great height, these proofs upon your table, and conjectured what they + were. No harm would have been done had it not been that as he passed your + door he perceived the key which had been left by the carelessness of your + servant. A sudden impulse came over him to enter and see if they were + indeed the proofs. It was not a dangerous exploit, for he could always + pretend that he had simply looked in to ask a question. + </p> + <p> + “Well, when he saw that they were indeed the proofs, it was then that he + yielded to temptation. He put his shoes on the table. What was it you put + on that chair near the window?” + </p> + <p> + “Gloves,” said the young man. + </p> + <p> + Holmes looked triumphantly at Bannister. “He put his gloves on the chair, + and he took the proofs, sheet by sheet, to copy them. He thought the tutor + must return by the main gate, and that he would see him. As we know, he + came back by the side gate. Suddenly he heard him at the very door. There + was no possible escape. He forgot his gloves, but he caught up his shoes + and darted into the bedroom. You observe that the scratch on that table is + slight at one side, but deepens in the direction of the bedroom door. That + in itself is enough to show us that the shoe had been drawn in that + direction and that the culprit had taken refuge there. The earth round the + spike had been left on the table, and a second sample was loosened and + fell in the bedroom. I may add that I walked out to the athletic grounds + this morning, saw that tenacious black clay is used in the jumping-pit, + and carried away a specimen of it, together with some of the fine tan or + sawdust which is strewn over it to prevent the athlete from slipping. Have + I told the truth, Mr. Gilchrist?” + </p> + <p> + The student had drawn himself erect. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, it is true,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens, have you nothing to add?” cried Soames. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, I have, but the shock of this disgraceful exposure has + bewildered me. I have a letter here, Mr. Soames, which I wrote to you + early this morning in the middle of a restless night. It was before I knew + that my sin had found me out. Here it is, sir. You will see that I have + said, 'I have determined not to go in for the examination. I have been + offered a commission in the Rhodesian Police, and I am going out to South + Africa at once.”' + </p> + <p> + “I am indeed pleased to hear that you did not intend to profit by your + unfair advantage,” said Soames. “But why did you change your purpose?” + </p> + <p> + Gilchrist pointed to Bannister. + </p> + <p> + “There is the man who set me in the right path,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Come now, Bannister,” said Holmes. “It will be clear to you from what I + have said that only you could have let this young man out, since you were + left in the room, and must have locked the door when you went out. As to + his escaping by that window, it was incredible. Can you not clear up the + last point in this mystery, and tell us the reasons for your action?” + </p> + <p> + “It was simple enough, sir, if you only had known; but with all your + cleverness it was impossible that you could know. Time was, sir, when I + was butler to old Sir Jabez Gilchrist, this young gentleman's father. When + he was ruined I came to the college as servant, but I never forgot my old + employer because he was down in the world. I watched his son all I could + for the sake of the old days. Well, sir, when I came into this room + yesterday when the alarm was given, the very first thing I saw was Mr. + Gilchrist's tan gloves a-lying in that chair. I knew those gloves well, + and I understood their message. If Mr. Soames saw them the game was up. I + flopped down into that chair, and nothing would budge me until Mr. Soames + he went for you. Then out came my poor young master, whom I had dandled on + my knee, and confessed it all to me. Wasn't it natural, sir, that I should + save him, and wasn't it natural also that I should try to speak to him as + his dead father would have done, and make him understand that he could not + profit by such a deed? Could you blame me, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed,” said Holmes, heartily, springing to his feet. “Well, Soames, + I think we have cleared your little problem up, and our breakfast awaits + us at home. Come, Watson! As to you, sir, I trust that a bright future + awaits you in Rhodesia. For once you have fallen low. Let us see in the + future how high you can rise.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 28 JULY, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0010" id="link2H_4_0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + X.—The Adventure of the Golden Pince-Nez. + </h2> + <p> + WHEN I look at the three massive manuscript volumes which contain our work + for the year 1894 I confess that it is very difficult for me, out of such + a wealth of material, to select the cases which are most interesting in + themselves and at the same time most conducive to a display of those + peculiar powers for which my friend was famous. As I turn over the pages I + see my notes upon the repulsive story of the red leech and the terrible + death of Crosby the banker. Here also I find an account of the Addleton + tragedy and the singular contents of the ancient British barrow. The + famous Smith-Mortimer succession case comes also within this period, and + so does the tracking and arrest of Huret, the Boulevard assassin—an + exploit which won for Holmes an autograph letter of thanks from the French + President and the Order of the Legion of Honour. Each of these would + furnish a narrative, but on the whole I am of opinion that none of them + unite so many singular points of interest as the episode of Yoxley Old + Place, which includes not only the lamentable death of young Willoughby + Smith, but also those subsequent developments which threw so curious a + light upon the causes of the crime. + </p> + <p> + It was a wild, tempestuous night towards the close of November. Holmes and + I sat together in silence all the evening, he engaged with a powerful lens + deciphering the remains of the original inscription upon a palimpsest, I + deep in a recent treatise upon surgery. Outside the wind howled down Baker + Street, while the rain beat fiercely against the windows. It was strange + there in the very depths of the town, with ten miles of man's handiwork on + every side of us, to feel the iron grip of Nature, and to be conscious + that to the huge elemental forces all London was no more than the + molehills that dot the fields. I walked to the window and looked out on + the deserted street. The occasional lamps gleamed on the expanse of muddy + road and shining pavement. A single cab was splashing its way from the + Oxford Street end. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Watson, it's as well we have not to turn out to-night,” said + Holmes, laying aside his lens and rolling up the palimpsest. “I've done + enough for one sitting. It is trying work for the eyes. So far as I can + make out it is nothing more exciting than an Abbey's accounts dating from + the second half of the fifteenth century. Halloa! halloa! halloa! What's + this?” + </p> + <p> + Amid the droning of the wind there had come the stamping of a horse's + hoofs and the long grind of a wheel as it rasped against the kerb. The cab + which I had seen had pulled up at our door. + </p> + <p> + “What can he want?” I ejaculated, as a man stepped out of it. + </p> + <p> + “Want! He wants us. And we, my poor Watson, want overcoats and cravats and + goloshes, and every aid that man ever invented to fight the weather. Wait + a bit, though! There's the cab off again! There's hope yet. He'd have kept + it if he had wanted us to come. Run down, my dear fellow, and open the + door, for all virtuous folk have been long in bed.” + </p> + <p> + When the light of the hall lamp fell upon our midnight visitor I had no + difficulty in recognising him. It was young Stanley Hopkins, a promising + detective, in whose career Holmes had several times shown a very practical + interest. + </p> + <p> + “Is he in?” he asked, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “Come up, my dear sir,” said Holmes's voice from above. “I hope you have + no designs upon us on such a night as this.” + </p> + <p> + The detective mounted the stairs, and our lamp gleamed upon his shining + waterproof. I helped him out of it while Holmes knocked a blaze out of the + logs in the grate. + </p> + <p> + “Now, my dear Hopkins, draw up and warm your toes,” said he. “Here's a + cigar, and the doctor has a prescription containing hot water and a lemon + which is good medicine on a night like this. It must be something + important which has brought you out in such a gale.” + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed, Mr. Holmes. I've had a bustling afternoon, I promise you. + Did you see anything of the Yoxley case in the latest editions?” + </p> + <p> + “I've seen nothing later than the fifteenth century to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it was only a paragraph, and all wrong at that, so you have not + missed anything. I haven't let the grass grow under my feet. It's down in + Kent, seven miles from Chatham and three from the railway line. I was + wired for at three-fifteen, reached Yoxley Old Place at five, conducted my + investigation, was back at Charing Cross by the last train, and straight + to you by cab.” + </p> + <p> + “Which means, I suppose, that you are not quite clear about your case?” + </p> + <p> + “It means that I can make neither head nor tail of it. So far as I can see + it is just as tangled a business as ever I handled, and yet at first it + seemed so simple that one couldn't go wrong. There's no motive, Mr. + Holmes. That's what bothers me—I can't put my hand on a motive. + Here's a man dead—there's no denying that—but, so far as I can + see, no reason on earth why anyone should wish him harm.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes lit his cigar and leaned back in his chair. + </p> + <p> + “Let us hear about it,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I've got my facts pretty clear,” said Stanley Hopkins. “All I want now is + to know what they all mean. The story, so far as I can make it out, is + like this. Some years ago this country house, Yoxley Old Place, was taken + by an elderly man, who gave the name of Professor Coram. He was an + invalid, keeping his bed half the time, and the other half hobbling round + the house with a stick or being pushed about the grounds by the gardener + in a bath-chair. He was well liked by the few neighbours who called upon + him, and he has the reputation down there of being a very learned man. His + household used to consist of an elderly housekeeper, Mrs. Marker, and of a + maid, Susan Tarlton. These have both been with him since his arrival, and + they seem to be women of excellent character. The Professor is writing a + learned book, and he found it necessary about a year ago to engage a + secretary. The first two that he tried were not successes; but the third, + Mr. Willoughby Smith, a very young man straight from the University, seems + to have been just what his employer wanted. His work consisted in writing + all the morning to the Professor's dictation, and he usually spent the + evening in hunting up references and passages which bore upon the next + day's work. This Willoughby Smith has nothing against him either as a boy + at Uppingham or as a young man at Cambridge. I have seen his testimonials, + and from the first he was a decent, quiet, hardworking fellow, with no + weak spot in him at all. And yet this is the lad who has met his death + this morning in the Professor's study under circumstances which can point + only to murder.” + </p> + <p> + The wind howled and screamed at the windows. Holmes and I drew closer to + the fire while the young inspector slowly and point by point developed his + singular narrative. + </p> + <p> + “If you were to search all England,” said he, “I don't suppose you could + find a household more self-contained or free from outside influences. + Whole weeks would pass and not one of them go past the garden gate. The + Professor was buried in his work and existed for nothing else. Young Smith + knew nobody in the neighbourhood, and lived very much as his employer did. + The two women had nothing to take them from the house. Mortimer the + gardener, who wheels the bath-chair, is an Army pensioner—an old + Crimean man of excellent character. He does not live in the house, but in + a three-roomed cottage at the other end of the garden. Those are the only + people that you would find within the grounds of Yoxley Old Place. At the + same time, the gate of the garden is a hundred yards from the main London + to Chatham road. It opens with a latch, and there is nothing to prevent + anyone from walking in. + </p> + <p> + “Now I will give you the evidence of Susan Tarlton, who is the only person + who can say anything positive about the matter. It was in the forenoon, + between eleven and twelve. She was engaged at the moment in hanging some + curtains in the upstairs front bedroom. Professor Coram was still in bed, + for when the weather is bad he seldom rises before midday. The housekeeper + was busied with some work in the back of the house. Willoughby Smith had + been in his bedroom, which he uses as a sitting-room; but the maid heard + him at that moment pass along the passage and descend to the study + immediately below her. She did not see him, but she says that she could + not be mistaken in his quick, firm tread. She did not hear the study door + close, but a minute or so later there was a dreadful cry in the room + below. It was a wild, hoarse scream, so strange and unnatural that it + might have come either from a man or a woman. At the same instant there + was a heavy thud, which shook the old house, and then all was silence. The + maid stood petrified for a moment, and then, recovering her courage, she + ran downstairs. The study door was shut, and she opened it. Inside young + Mr. Willoughby Smith was stretched upon the floor. At first she could see + no injury, but as she tried to raise him she saw that blood was pouring + from the underside of his neck. It was pierced by a very small but very + deep wound, which had divided the carotid artery. The instrument with + which the injury had been inflicted lay upon the carpet beside him. It was + one of those small sealing-wax knives to be found on old-fashioned + writing-tables, with an ivory handle and a stiff blade. It was part of the + fittings of the Professor's own desk. + </p> + <p> + “At first the maid thought that young Smith was already dead, but on + pouring some water from the carafe over his forehead he opened his eyes + for an instant. 'The Professor,' he murmured—'it was she.' The maid + is prepared to swear that those were the exact words. He tried desperately + to say something else, and he held his right hand up in the air. Then he + fell back dead. + </p> + <p> + “In the meantime the housekeeper had also arrived upon the scene, but she + was just too late to catch the young man's dying words. Leaving Susan with + the body, she hurried to the Professor's room. He was sitting up in bed + horribly agitated, for he had heard enough to convince him that something + terrible had occurred. Mrs. Marker is prepared to swear that the Professor + was still in his night-clothes, and, indeed, it was impossible for him to + dress without the help of Mortimer, whose orders were to come at twelve + o'clock. The Professor declares that he heard the distant cry, but that he + knows nothing more. He can give no explanation of the young man's last + words, 'The Professor—it was she,' but imagines that they were the + outcome of delirium. He believes that Willoughby Smith had not an enemy in + the world, and can give no reason for the crime. His first action was to + send Mortimer the gardener for the local police. A little later the chief + constable sent for me. Nothing was moved before I got there, and strict + orders were given that no one should walk upon the paths leading to the + house. It was a splendid chance of putting your theories into practice, + Mr. Sherlock Holmes. There was really nothing wanting.” + </p> + <p> + “Except Mr. Sherlock Holmes,” said my companion, with a somewhat bitter + smile. “Well, let us hear about it. What sort of job did you make of it?” + </p> + <p> + “I must ask you first, Mr. Holmes, to glance at this rough plan, which + will give you a general idea of the position of the Professor's study and + the various points of the case. It will help you in following my + investigation.” + </p> + <p> + He unfolded the rough chart, which I here reproduce, and he laid it across + Holmes's knee. I rose, and, standing behind Holmes, I studied it over his + shoulder. + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + “It is very rough, of course, and it only deals with the points which seem + to me to be essential. All the rest you will see later for yourself. Now, + first of all, presuming that the assassin entered the house, how did he or + she come in? Undoubtedly by the garden path and the back door, from which + there is direct access to the study. Any other way would have been + exceedingly complicated. The escape must have also been made along that + line, for of the two other exits from the room one was blocked by Susan as + she ran downstairs and the other leads straight to the Professor's + bedroom. I therefore directed my attention at once to the garden path, + which was saturated with recent rain and would certainly show any + footmarks. + </p> + <p> + “My examination showed me that I was dealing with a cautious and expert + criminal. No footmarks were to be found on the path. There could be no + question, however, that someone had passed along the grass border which + lines the path, and that he had done so in order to avoid leaving a track. + I could not find anything in the nature of a distinct impression, but the + grass was trodden down and someone had undoubtedly passed. It could only + have been the murderer, since neither the gardener nor anyone else had + been there that morning and the rain had only begun during the night.” + </p> + <p> + “One moment,” said Holmes. “Where does this path lead to?” + </p> + <p> + “To the road.” + </p> + <p> + “How long is it?” + </p> + <p> + “A hundred yards or so.” + </p> + <p> + “At the point where the path passes through the gate you could surely pick + up the tracks?” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately, the path was tiled at that point.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, on the road itself?” + </p> + <p> + “No; it was all trodden into mire.” + </p> + <p> + “Tut-tut! Well, then, these tracks upon the grass, were they coming or + going?” + </p> + <p> + “It was impossible to say. There was never any outline.” + </p> + <p> + “A large foot or a small?” + </p> + <p> + “You could not distinguish.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes gave an ejaculation of impatience. + </p> + <p> + “It has been pouring rain and blowing a hurricane ever since,” said he. + “It will be harder to read now than that palimpsest. Well, well, it can't + be helped. What did you do, Hopkins, after you had made certain that you + had made certain of nothing?” + </p> + <p> + “I think I made certain of a good deal, Mr. Holmes. I knew that someone + had entered the house cautiously from without. I next examined the + corridor. It is lined with cocoanut matting and had taken no impression of + any kind. This brought me into the study itself. It is a + scantily-furnished room. The main article is a large writing-table with a + fixed bureau. This bureau consists of a double column of drawers with a + central small cupboard between them. The drawers were open, the cupboard + locked. The drawers, it seems, were always open, and nothing of value was + kept in them. There were some papers of importance in the cupboard, but + there were no signs that this had been tampered with, and the Professor + assures me that nothing was missing. It is certain that no robbery has + been committed. + </p> + <p> + “I come now to the body of the young man. It was found near the bureau, + and just to the left of it, as marked upon that chart. The stab was on the + right side of the neck and from behind forwards, so that it is almost + impossible that it could have been self-inflicted.” + </p> + <p> + “Unless he fell upon the knife,” said Holmes. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. The idea crossed my mind. But we found the knife some feet away + from the body, so that seems impossible. Then, of course, there are the + man's own dying words. And, finally, there was this very important piece + of evidence which was found clasped in the dead man's right hand.” + </p> + <p> + From his pocket Stanley Hopkins drew a small paper packet. He unfolded it + and disclosed a golden pince-nez, with two broken ends of black silk cord + dangling from the end of it. “Willoughby Smith had excellent sight,” he + added. “There can be no question that this was snatched from the face or + the person of the assassin.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes took the glasses into his hand and examined them with the + utmost attention and interest. He held them on his nose, endeavoured to + read through them, went to the window and stared up the street with them, + looked at them most minutely in the full light of the lamp, and finally, + with a chuckle, seated himself at the table and wrote a few lines upon a + sheet of paper, which he tossed across to Stanley Hopkins. + </p> + <p> + “That's the best I can do for you,” said he. “It may prove to be of some + use.” + </p> + <p> + The astonished detective read the note aloud. It ran as follows:— + </p> + <p> + “Wanted, a woman of good address, attired like a lady. She has a + remarkably thick nose, with eyes which are set close upon either side of + it. She has a puckered forehead, a peering expression, and probably + rounded shoulders. There are indications that she has had recourse to an + optician at least twice during the last few months. As her glasses are of + remarkable strength and as opticians are not very numerous, there should + be no difficulty in tracing her.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smiled at the astonishment of Hopkins, which must have been + reflected upon my features. + </p> + <p> + “Surely my deductions are simplicity itself,” said he. “It would be + difficult to name any articles which afford a finer field for inference + than a pair of glasses, especially so remarkable a pair as these. That + they belong to a woman I infer from their delicacy, and also, of course, + from the last words of the dying man. As to her being a person of + refinement and well dressed, they are, as you perceive, handsomely mounted + in solid gold, and it is inconceivable that anyone who wore such glasses + could be slatternly in other respects. You will find that the clips are + too wide for your nose, showing that the lady's nose was very broad at the + base. This sort of nose is usually a short and coarse one, but there are a + sufficient number of exceptions to prevent me from being dogmatic or from + insisting upon this point in my description. My own face is a narrow one, + and yet I find that I cannot get my eyes into the centre, or near the + centre, of these glasses. Therefore the lady's eyes are set very near to + the sides of the nose. You will perceive, Watson, that the glasses are + concave and of unusual strength. A lady whose vision has been so extremely + contracted all her life is sure to have the physical characteristics of + such vision, which are seen in the forehead, the eyelids, and the + shoulders.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I said, “I can follow each of your arguments. I confess, however, + that I am unable to understand how you arrive at the double visit to the + optician.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes took the glasses in his hand. + </p> + <p> + “You will perceive,” he said, “that the clips are lined with tiny bands of + cork to soften the pressure upon the nose. One of these is discoloured and + worn to some slight extent, but the other is new. Evidently one has fallen + off and been replaced. I should judge that the older of them has not been + there more than a few months. They exactly correspond, so I gather that + the lady went back to the same establishment for the second.” + </p> + <p> + “By George, it's marvellous!” cried Hopkins, in an ecstasy of admiration. + “To think that I had all that evidence in my hand and never knew it! I had + intended, however, to go the round of the London opticians.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you would. Meanwhile, have you anything more to tell us about + the case?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, Mr. Holmes. I think that you know as much as I do now—probably + more. We have had inquiries made as to any stranger seen on the country + roads or at the railway station. We have heard of none. What beats me is + the utter want of all object in the crime. Not a ghost of a motive can + anyone suggest.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! there I am not in a position to help you. But I suppose you want us + to come out to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “If it is not asking too much, Mr. Holmes. There's a train from Charing + Cross to Chatham at six in the morning, and we should be at Yoxley Old + Place between eight and nine.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we shall take it. Your case has certainly some features of great + interest, and I shall be delighted to look into it. Well, it's nearly one, + and we had best get a few hours' sleep. I dare say you can manage all + right on the sofa in front of the fire. I'll light my spirit-lamp and give + you a cup of coffee before we start.” + </p> + <p> + The gale had blown itself out next day, but it was a bitter morning when + we started upon our journey. We saw the cold winter sun rise over the + dreary marshes of the Thames and the long, sullen reaches of the river, + which I shall ever associate with our pursuit of the Andaman Islander in + the earlier days of our career. After a long and weary journey we alighted + at a small station some miles from Chatham. While a horse was being put + into a trap at the local inn we snatched a hurried breakfast, and so we + were all ready for business when we at last arrived at Yoxley Old Place. A + constable met us at the garden gate. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Wilson, any news?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “No reports of any stranger seen?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. Down at the station they are certain that no stranger either + came or went yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you had inquiries made at inns and lodgings?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; there is no one that we cannot account for.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it's only a reasonable walk to Chatham. Anyone might stay there, or + take a train without being observed. This is the garden path of which I + spoke, Mr. Holmes. I'll pledge my word there was no mark on it yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “On which side were the marks on the grass?” + </p> + <p> + “This side, sir. This narrow margin of grass between the path and the + flower-bed. I can't see the traces now, but they were clear to me then.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; someone has passed along,” said Holmes, stooping over the grass + border. “Our lady must have picked her steps carefully, must she not, + since on the one side she would leave a track on the path, and on the + other an even clearer one on the soft bed?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, she must have been a cool hand.” + </p> + <p> + I saw an intent look pass over Holmes's face. + </p> + <p> + “You say that she must have come back this way?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; there is no other.” + </p> + <p> + “On this strip of grass?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! It was a very remarkable performance—very remarkable. Well, I + think we have exhausted the path. Let us go farther. This garden door is + usually kept open, I suppose? Then this visitor had nothing to do but to + walk in. The idea of murder was not in her mind, or she would have + provided herself with some sort of weapon, instead of having to pick this + knife off the writing-table. She advanced along this corridor, leaving no + traces upon the cocoanut matting. Then she found herself in this study. + How long was she there? We have no means of judging.” + </p> + <p> + “Not more than a few minutes, sir. I forgot to tell you that Mrs. Marker, + the housekeeper, had been in there tidying not very long before—about + a quarter of an hour, she says.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that gives us a limit. Our lady enters this room and what does she + do? She goes over to the writing-table. What for? Not for anything in the + drawers. If there had been anything worth her taking it would surely have + been locked up. No; it was for something in that wooden bureau. Halloa! + what is that scratch upon the face of it? Just hold a match, Watson. Why + did you not tell me of this, Hopkins?” + </p> + <p> + The mark which he was examining began upon the brass work on the + right-hand side of the keyhole, and extended for about four inches, where + it had scratched the varnish from the surface. + </p> + <p> + “I noticed it, Mr. Holmes. But you'll always find scratches round a + keyhole.” + </p> + <p> + “This is recent, quite recent. See how the brass shines where it is cut. + An old scratch would be the same colour as the surface. Look at it through + my lens. There's the varnish, too, like earth on each side of a furrow. Is + Mrs. Marker there?” + </p> + <p> + A sad-faced, elderly woman came into the room. + </p> + <p> + “Did you dust this bureau yesterday morning?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you notice this scratch?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I did not.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure you did not, for a duster would have swept away these shreds of + varnish. Who has the key of this bureau?” + </p> + <p> + “The Professor keeps it on his watch-chain.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it a simple key?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; it is a Chubb's key.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. Mrs. Marker, you can go. Now we are making a little progress. + Our lady enters the room, advances to the bureau, and either opens it or + tries to do so. While she is thus engaged young Willoughby Smith enters + the room. In her hurry to withdraw the key she makes this scratch upon the + door. He seizes her, and she, snatching up the nearest object, which + happens to be this knife, strikes at him in order to make him let go his + hold. The blow is a fatal one. He falls and she escapes, either with or + without the object for which she has come. Is Susan the maid there? Could + anyone have got away through that door after the time that you heard the + cry, Susan?” + </p> + <p> + “No sir; it is impossible. Before I got down the stair I'd have seen + anyone in the passage. Besides, the door never opened, for I would have + heard it.” + </p> + <p> + “That settles this exit. Then no doubt the lady went out the way she came. + I understand that this other passage leads only to the Professor's room. + There is no exit that way?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall go down it and make the acquaintance of the Professor. Halloa, + Hopkins! this is very important, very important indeed. The Professor's + corridor is also lined with cocoanut matting.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, what of that?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see any bearing upon the case? Well, well, I don't insist upon + it. No doubt I am wrong. And yet it seems to me to be suggestive. Come + with me and introduce me.” + </p> + <p> + We passed down the passage, which was of the same length as that which led + to the garden. At the end was a short flight of steps ending in a door. + Our guide knocked, and then ushered us into the Professor's bedroom. + </p> + <p> + It was a very large chamber, lined with innumerable volumes, which had + overflowed from the shelves and lay in piles in the corners, or were + stacked all round at the base of the cases. The bed was in the centre of + the room, and in it, propped up with pillows, was the owner of the house. + I have seldom seen a more remarkable-looking person. It was a gaunt, + aquiline face which was turned towards us, with piercing dark eyes, which + lurked in deep hollows under overhung and tufted brows. His hair and beard + were white, save that the latter was curiously stained with yellow around + his mouth. A cigarette glowed amid the tangle of white hair, and the air + of the room was fetid with stale tobacco-smoke. As he held out his hand to + Holmes I perceived that it also was stained yellow with nicotine. + </p> + <p> + “A smoker, Mr. Holmes?” said he, speaking well-chosen English with a + curious little mincing accent. “Pray take a cigarette. And you, sir? I can + recommend them, for I have them especially prepared by Ionides of + Alexandria. He sends me a thousand at a time, and I grieve to say that I + have to arrange for a fresh supply every fortnight. Bad, sir, very bad, + but an old man has few pleasures. Tobacco and my work—that is all + that is left to me.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes had lit a cigarette, and was shooting little darting glances all + over the room. + </p> + <p> + “Tobacco and my work, but now only tobacco,” the old man exclaimed. “Alas! + what a fatal interruption! Who could have foreseen such a terrible + catastrophe? So estimable a young man! I assure you that after a few + months' training he was an admirable assistant. What do you think of the + matter, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “I have not yet made up my mind.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall indeed be indebted to you if you can throw a light where all is + so dark to us. To a poor bookworm and invalid like myself such a blow is + paralyzing. I seem to have lost the faculty of thought. But you are a man + of action—you are a man of affairs. It is part of the everyday + routine of your life. You can preserve your balance in every emergency. We + are fortunate indeed in having you at our side.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes was pacing up and down one side of the room whilst the old + Professor was talking. I observed that he was smoking with extraordinary + rapidity. It was evident that he shared our host's liking for the fresh + Alexandrian cigarettes. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, it is a crushing blow,” said the old man. “That is my MAGNUM + OPUS—the pile of papers on the side table yonder. It is my analysis + of the documents found in the Coptic monasteries of Syria and Egypt, a + work which will cut deep at the very foundations of revealed religion. + With my enfeebled health I do not know whether I shall ever be able to + complete it now that my assistant has been taken from me. Dear me, Mr. + Holmes; why, you are even a quicker smoker than I am myself.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I am a connoisseur,” said he, taking another cigarette from the box—his + fourth—and lighting it from the stub of that which he had finished. + “I will not trouble you with any lengthy cross-examination, Professor + Coram, since I gather that you were in bed at the time of the crime and + could know nothing about it. I would only ask this. What do you imagine + that this poor fellow meant by his last words: 'The Professor—it was + she'?” + </p> + <p> + The Professor shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Susan is a country girl,” said he, “and you know the incredible stupidity + of that class. I fancy that the poor fellow murmured some incoherent + delirious words, and that she twisted them into this meaningless message.” + </p> + <p> + “I see. You have no explanation yourself of the tragedy?” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly an accident; possibly—I only breathe it among ourselves—a + suicide. Young men have their hidden troubles—some affair of the + heart, perhaps, which we have never known. It is a more probable + supposition than murder.” + </p> + <p> + “But the eye-glasses?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I am only a student—a man of dreams. I cannot explain the + practical things of life. But still, we are aware, my friend, that + love-gages may take strange shapes. By all means take another cigarette. + It is a pleasure to see anyone appreciate them so. A fan, a glove, glasses—who + knows what article may be carried as a token or treasured when a man puts + an end to his life? This gentleman speaks of footsteps in the grass; but, + after all, it is easy to be mistaken on such a point. As to the knife, it + might well be thrown far from the unfortunate man as he fell. It is + possible that I speak as a child, but to me it seems that Willoughby Smith + has met his fate by his own hand.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes seemed struck by the theory thus put forward, and he continued to + walk up and down for some time, lost in thought and consuming cigarette + after cigarette. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, Professor Coram,” he said, at last, “what is in that cupboard in + the bureau?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing that would help a thief. Family papers, letters from my poor + wife, diplomas of Universities which have done me honour. Here is the key. + You can look for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes picked up the key and looked at it for an instant; then he handed + it back. + </p> + <p> + “No; I hardly think that it would help me,” said he. “I should prefer to + go quietly down to your garden and turn the whole matter over in my head. + There is something to be said for the theory of suicide which you have put + forward. We must apologize for having intruded upon you, Professor Coram, + and I promise that we won't disturb you until after lunch. At two o'clock + we will come again and report to you anything which may have happened in + the interval.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes was curiously distrait, and we walked up and down the garden path + for some time in silence. + </p> + <p> + “Have you a clue?” I asked, at last. + </p> + <p> + “It depends upon those cigarettes that I smoked,” said he. “It is possible + that I am utterly mistaken. The cigarettes will show me.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Holmes,” I exclaimed, “how on earth——” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, you may see for yourself. If not, there's no harm done. Of + course, we always have the optician clue to fall back upon, but I take a + short cut when I can get it. Ah, here is the good Mrs. Marker! Let us + enjoy five minutes of instructive conversation with her.” + </p> + <p> + I may have remarked before that Holmes had, when he liked, a peculiarly + ingratiating way with women, and that he very readily established terms of + confidence with them. In half the time which he had named he had captured + the housekeeper's goodwill, and was chatting with her as if he had known + her for years. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Holmes, it is as you say, sir. He does smoke something terrible. + All day and sometimes all night, sir. I've seen that room of a morning—well, + sir, you'd have thought it was a London fog. Poor young Mr. Smith, he was + a smoker also, but not as bad as the Professor. His health—well, I + don't know that it's better nor worse for the smoking.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said Holmes, “but it kills the appetite.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't know about that, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose the Professor eats hardly anything?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he is variable. I'll say that for him.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll wager he took no breakfast this morning, and won't face his lunch + after all the cigarettes I saw him consume.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you're out there, sir, as it happens, for he ate a remarkable big + breakfast this morning. I don't know when I've known him make a better + one, and he's ordered a good dish of cutlets for his lunch. I'm surprised + myself, for since I came into that room yesterday and saw young Mr. Smith + lying there on the floor I couldn't bear to look at food. Well, it takes + all sorts to make a world, and the Professor hasn't let it take his + appetite away.” + </p> + <p> + We loitered the morning away in the garden. Stanley Hopkins had gone down + to the village to look into some rumours of a strange woman who had been + seen by some children on the Chatham Road the previous morning. As to my + friend, all his usual energy seemed to have deserted him. I had never + known him handle a case in such a half-hearted fashion. Even the news + brought back by Hopkins that he had found the children and that they had + undoubtedly seen a woman exactly corresponding with Holmes's description, + and wearing either spectacles or eye-glasses, failed to rouse any sign of + keen interest. He was more attentive when Susan, who waited upon us at + lunch, volunteered the information that she believed Mr. Smith had been + out for a walk yesterday morning, and that he had only returned half an + hour before the tragedy occurred. I could not myself see the bearing of + this incident, but I clearly perceived that Holmes was weaving it into the + general scheme which he had formed in his brain. Suddenly he sprang from + his chair and glanced at his watch. “Two o'clock, gentlemen,” said he. “We + must go up and have it out with our friend the Professor.” + </p> + <p> + The old man had just finished his lunch, and certainly his empty dish bore + evidence to the good appetite with which his housekeeper had credited him. + He was, indeed, a weird figure as he turned his white mane and his glowing + eyes towards us. The eternal cigarette smouldered in his mouth. He had + been dressed and was seated in an arm-chair by the fire. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Holmes, have you solved this mystery yet?” He shoved the large + tin of cigarettes which stood on a table beside him towards my companion. + Holmes stretched out his hand at the same moment, and between them they + tipped the box over the edge. For a minute or two we were all on our knees + retrieving stray cigarettes from impossible places. When we rose again I + observed that Holmes's eyes were shining and his cheeks tinged with + colour. Only at a crisis have I seen those battle-signals flying. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said he, “I have solved it.” + </p> + <p> + Stanley Hopkins and I stared in amazement. Something like a sneer quivered + over the gaunt features of the old Professor. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! In the garden?” + </p> + <p> + “No, here.” + </p> + <p> + “Here! When?” + </p> + <p> + “This instant.” + </p> + <p> + “You are surely joking, Mr. Sherlock Holmes. You compel me to tell you + that this is too serious a matter to be treated in such a fashion.” + </p> + <p> + “I have forged and tested every link of my chain, Professor Coram, and I + am sure that it is sound. What your motives are or what exact part you + play in this strange business I am not yet able to say. In a few minutes I + shall probably hear it from your own lips. Meanwhile I will reconstruct + what is past for your benefit, so that you may know the information which + I still require. + </p> + <p> + “A lady yesterday entered your study. She came with the intention of + possessing herself of certain documents which were in your bureau. She had + a key of her own. I have had an opportunity of examining yours, and I do + not find that slight discolouration which the scratch made upon the + varnish would have produced. You were not an accessory, therefore, and she + came, so far as I can read the evidence, without your knowledge to rob + you.” + </p> + <p> + The Professor blew a cloud from his lips. “This is most interesting and + instructive,” said he. “Have you no more to add? Surely, having traced + this lady so far, you can also say what has become of her.” + </p> + <p> + “I will endeavour to do so. In the first place she was seized by your + secretary, and stabbed him in order to escape. This catastrophe I am + inclined to regard as an unhappy accident, for I am convinced that the + lady had no intention of inflicting so grievous an injury. An assassin + does not come unarmed. Horrified by what she had done she rushed wildly + away from the scene of the tragedy. Unfortunately for her she had lost her + glasses in the scuffle, and as she was extremely short-sighted she was + really helpless without them. She ran down a corridor, which she imagined + to be that by which she had come—both were lined with cocoanut + matting—and it was only when it was too late that she understood + that she had taken the wrong passage and that her retreat was cut off + behind her. What was she to do? She could not go back. She could not + remain where she was. She must go on. She went on. She mounted a stair, + pushed open a door, and found herself in your room.” + </p> + <p> + The old man sat with his mouth open staring wildly at Holmes. Amazement + and fear were stamped upon his expressive features. Now, with an effort, + he shrugged his shoulders and burst into insincere laughter. + </p> + <p> + “All very fine, Mr. Holmes,” said he. “But there is one little flaw in + your splendid theory. I was myself in my room, and I never left it during + the day.” + </p> + <p> + “I am aware of that, Professor Coram.” + </p> + <p> + “And you mean to say that I could lie upon that bed and not be aware that + a woman had entered my room?” + </p> + <p> + “I never said so. You WERE aware of it. You spoke with her. You recognised + her. You aided her to escape.” + </p> + <p> + Again the Professor burst into high-keyed laughter. He had risen to his + feet and his eyes glowed like embers. + </p> + <p> + “You are mad!” he cried. “You are talking insanely. I helped her to + escape? Where is she now?” + </p> + <p> + “She is there,” said Holmes, and he pointed to a high bookcase in the + corner of the room. + </p> + <p> + I saw the old man throw up his arms, a terrible convulsion passed over his + grim face, and he fell back in his chair. At the same instant the bookcase + at which Holmes pointed swung round upon a hinge, and a woman rushed out + into the room. “You are right!” she cried, in a strange foreign voice. + “You are right! I am here.” + </p> + <p> + She was brown with the dust and draped with the cobwebs which had come + from the walls of her hiding-place. Her face, too, was streaked with + grime, and at the best she could never have been handsome, for she had the + exact physical characteristics which Holmes had divined, with, in + addition, a long and obstinate chin. What with her natural blindness, and + what with the change from dark to light, she stood as one dazed, blinking + about her to see where and who we were. And yet, in spite of all these + disadvantages, there was a certain nobility in the woman's bearing, a + gallantry in the defiant chin and in the upraised head, which compelled + something of respect and admiration. Stanley Hopkins had laid his hand + upon her arm and claimed her as his prisoner, but she waved him aside + gently, and yet with an overmastering dignity which compelled obedience. + The old man lay back in his chair, with a twitching face, and stared at + her with brooding eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, I am your prisoner,” she said. “From where I stood I could hear + everything, and I know that you have learned the truth. I confess it all. + It was I who killed the young man. But you are right, you who say it was + an accident. I did not even know that it was a knife which I held in my + hand, for in my despair I snatched anything from the table and struck at + him to make him let me go. It is the truth that I tell.” + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” said Holmes, “I am sure that it is the truth. I fear that you are + far from well.” + </p> + <p> + She had turned a dreadful colour, the more ghastly under the dark + dust-streaks upon her face. She seated herself on the side of the bed; + then she resumed. + </p> + <p> + “I have only a little time here,” she said, “but I would have you to know + the whole truth. I am this man's wife. He is not an Englishman. He is a + Russian. His name I will not tell.” + </p> + <p> + For the first time the old man stirred. “God bless you, Anna!” he cried. + “God bless you!” + </p> + <p> + She cast a look of the deepest disdain in his direction. “Why should you + cling so hard to that wretched life of yours, Sergius?” said she. “It has + done harm to many and good to none—not even to yourself. However, it + is not for me to cause the frail thread to be snapped before God's time. I + have enough already upon my soul since I crossed the threshold of this + cursed house. But I must speak or I shall be too late. + </p> + <p> + “I have said, gentlemen, that I am this man's wife. He was fifty and I a + foolish girl of twenty when we married. It was in a city of Russia, a + University—I will not name the place.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, Anna!” murmured the old man again. + </p> + <p> + “We were reformers—revolutionists—Nihilists, you understand. + He and I and many more. Then there came a time of trouble, a police + officer was killed, many were arrested, evidence was wanted, and in order + to save his own life and to earn a great reward my husband betrayed his + own wife and his companions. Yes, we were all arrested upon his + confession. Some of us found our way to the gallows and some to Siberia. I + was among these last, but my term was not for life. My husband came to + England with his ill-gotten gains, and has lived in quiet ever since, + knowing well that if the Brotherhood knew where he was not a week would + pass before justice would be done.” + </p> + <p> + The old man reached out a trembling hand and helped himself to a + cigarette. “I am in your hands, Anna,” said he. “You were always good to + me.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not yet told you the height of his villainy,” said she. “Among our + comrades of the Order there was one who was the friend of my heart. He was + noble, unselfish, loving—all that my husband was not. He hated + violence. We were all guilty—if that is guilt—but he was not. + He wrote for ever dissuading us from such a course. These letters would + have saved him. So would my diary, in which from day to day I had entered + both my feelings towards him and the view which each of us had taken. My + husband found and kept both diary and letters. He hid them, and he tried + hard to swear away the young man's life. In this he failed, but Alexis was + sent a convict to Siberia, where now, at this moment, he works in a salt + mine. Think of that, you villain, you villain; now, now, at this very + moment, Alexis, a man whose name you are not worthy to speak, works and + lives like a slave, and yet I have your life in my hands and I let you + go.” + </p> + <p> + “You were always a noble woman, Anna,” said the old man, puffing at his + cigarette. + </p> + <p> + She had risen, but she fell back again with a little cry of pain. + </p> + <p> + “I must finish,” she said. “When my term was over I set myself to get the + diary and letters which, if sent to the Russian Government, would procure + my friend's release. I knew that my husband had come to England. After + months of searching I discovered where he was. I knew that he still had + the diary, for when I was in Siberia I had a letter from him once + reproaching me and quoting some passages from its pages. Yet I was sure + that with his revengeful nature he would never give it to me of his own + free will. I must get it for myself. With this object I engaged an agent + from a private detective firm, who entered my husband's house as secretary—it + was your second secretary, Sergius, the one who left you so hurriedly. He + found that papers were kept in the cupboard, and he got an impression of + the key. He would not go farther. He furnished me with a plan of the + house, and he told me that in the forenoon the study was always empty, as + the secretary was employed up here. So at last I took my courage in both + hands and I came down to get the papers for myself. I succeeded, but at + what a cost! + </p> + <p> + “I had just taken the papers and was locking the cupboard when the young + man seized me. I had seen him already that morning. He had met me in the + road and I had asked him to tell me where Professor Coram lived, not + knowing that he was in his employ.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly! exactly!” said Holmes. “The secretary came back and told his + employer of the woman he had met. Then in his last breath he tried to send + a message that it was she—the she whom he had just discussed with + him.” + </p> + <p> + “You must let me speak,” said the woman, in an imperative voice, and her + face contracted as if in pain. “When he had fallen I rushed from the room, + chose the wrong door, and found myself in my husband's room. He spoke of + giving me up. I showed him that if he did so his life was in my hands. If + he gave me to the law I could give him to the Brotherhood. It was not that + I wished to live for my own sake, but it was that I desired to accomplish + my purpose. He knew that I would do what I said—that his own fate + was involved in mine. For that reason and for no other he shielded me. He + thrust me into that dark hiding-place, a relic of old days, known only to + himself. He took his meals in his own room, and so was able to give me + part of his food. It was agreed that when the police left the house I + should slip away by night and come back no more. But in some way you have + read our plans.” She tore from the bosom of her dress a small packet. + “These are my last words,” said she; “here is the packet which will save + Alexis. I confide it to your honour and to your love of justice. Take it! + You will deliver it at the Russian Embassy. Now I have done my duty, and——” + </p> + <p> + “Stop her!” cried Holmes. He had bounded across the room and had wrenched + a small phial from her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Too late!” she said, sinking back on the bed. “Too late! I took the + poison before I left my hiding-place. My head swims! I am going! I charge + you, sir, to remember the packet.” + </p> + <p> + “A simple case, and yet in some ways an instructive one,” Holmes remarked, + as we travelled back to town. “It hinged from the outset upon the + pince-nez. But for the fortunate chance of the dying man having seized + these I am not sure that we could ever have reached our solution. It was + clear to me from the strength of the glasses that the wearer must have + been very blind and helpless when deprived of them. When you asked me to + believe that she walked along a narrow strip of grass without once making + a false step I remarked, as you may remember, that it was a noteworthy + performance. In my mind I set it down as an impossible performance, save + in the unlikely case that she had a second pair of glasses. I was forced, + therefore, to seriously consider the hypothesis that she had remained + within the house. On perceiving the similarity of the two corridors it + became clear that she might very easily have made such a mistake, and in + that case it was evident that she must have entered the Professor's room. + I was keenly on the alert, therefore, for whatever would bear out this + supposition, and I examined the room narrowly for anything in the shape of + a hiding-place. The carpet seemed continuous and firmly nailed, so I + dismissed the idea of a trap-door. There might well be a recess behind the + books. As you are aware, such devices are common in old libraries. I + observed that books were piled on the floor at all other points, but that + one bookcase was left clear. This, then, might be the door. I could see no + marks to guide me, but the carpet was of a dun colour, which lends itself + very well to examination. I therefore smoked a great number of those + excellent cigarettes, and I dropped the ash all over the space in front of + the suspected bookcase. It was a simple trick, but exceedingly effective. + I then went downstairs and I ascertained, in your presence, Watson, + without your perceiving the drift of my remarks, that Professor Coram's + consumption of food had increased—as one would expect when he is + supplying a second person. We then ascended to the room again, when, by + upsetting the cigarette-box, I obtained a very excellent view of the + floor, and was able to see quite clearly, from the traces upon the + cigarette ash, that the prisoner had, in our absence, come out from her + retreat. Well, Hopkins, here we are at Charing Cross, and I congratulate + you on having brought your case to a successful conclusion. You are going + to head-quarters, no doubt. I think, Watson, you and I will drive together + to the Russian Embassy.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 28 AUGUST, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0011" id="link2H_4_0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + XI.—The Adventure of the Missing Three-Quarter. + </h2> + <p> + WE were fairly accustomed to receive weird telegrams at Baker Street, but + I have a particular recollection of one which reached us on a gloomy + February morning some seven or eight years ago and gave Mr. Sherlock + Holmes a puzzled quarter of an hour. It was addressed to him, and ran + thus:— + </p> + <p> + “Please await me. Terrible misfortune. Right wing three-quarter missing; + indispensable to morrow.—OVERTON.” + </p> + <p> + “Strand post-mark and dispatched ten-thirty-six,” said Holmes, reading it + over and over. “Mr. Overton was evidently considerably excited when he + sent it, and somewhat incoherent in consequence. Well, well, he will be + here, I dare say, by the time I have looked through the TIMES, and then we + shall know all about it. Even the most insignificant problem would be + welcome in these stagnant days.” + </p> + <p> + Things had indeed been very slow with us, and I had learned to dread such + periods of inaction, for I knew by experience that my companion's brain + was so abnormally active that it was dangerous to leave it without + material upon which to work. For years I had gradually weaned him from + that drug mania which had threatened once to check his remarkable career. + Now I knew that under ordinary conditions he no longer craved for this + artificial stimulus, but I was well aware that the fiend was not dead, but + sleeping; and I have known that the sleep was a light one and the waking + near when in periods of idleness I have seen the drawn look upon Holmes's + ascetic face, and the brooding of his deep-set and inscrutable eyes. + Therefore I blessed this Mr. Overton, whoever he might be, since he had + come with his enigmatic message to break that dangerous calm which brought + more peril to my friend than all the storms of his tempestuous life. + </p> + <p> + As we had expected, the telegram was soon followed by its sender, and the + card of Mr. Cyril Overton, of Trinity College, Cambridge, announced the + arrival of an enormous young man, sixteen stone of solid bone and muscle, + who spanned the doorway with his broad shoulders and looked from one of us + to the other with a comely face which was haggard with anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Sherlock Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + My companion bowed. + </p> + <p> + “I've been down to Scotland Yard, Mr. Holmes. I saw Inspector Stanley + Hopkins. He advised me to come to you. He said the case, so far as he + could see, was more in your line than in that of the regular police.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray sit down and tell me what is the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “It's awful, Mr. Holmes, simply awful! I wonder my hair isn't grey. + Godfrey Staunton—you've heard of him, of course? He's simply the + hinge that the whole team turns on. I'd rather spare two from the pack and + have Godfrey for my three-quarter line. Whether it's passing, or tackling, + or dribbling, there's no one to touch him; and then, he's got the head and + can hold us all together. What am I to do? That's what I ask you, Mr. + Holmes. There's Moorhouse, first reserve, but he is trained as a half, and + he always edges right in on to the scrum instead of keeping out on the + touch-line. He's a fine place-kick, it's true, but, then, he has no + judgment, and he can't sprint for nuts. Why, Morton or Johnson, the Oxford + fliers, could romp round him. Stevenson is fast enough, but he couldn't + drop from the twenty-five line, and a three-quarter who can't either punt + or drop isn't worth a place for pace alone. No, Mr. Holmes, we are done + unless you can help me to find Godfrey Staunton.” + </p> + <p> + My friend had listened with amused surprise to this long speech, which was + poured forth with extraordinary vigour and earnestness, every point being + driven home by the slapping of a brawny hand upon the speaker's knee. When + our visitor was silent Holmes stretched out his hand and took down letter + “S” of his commonplace book. For once he dug in vain into that mine of + varied information. + </p> + <p> + “There is Arthur H. Staunton, the rising young forger,” said he, “and + there was Henry Staunton, whom I helped to hang, but Godfrey Staunton is a + new name to me.” + </p> + <p> + It was our visitor's turn to look surprised. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Holmes, I thought you knew things,” said he. “I suppose, then, + if you have never heard of Godfrey Staunton you don't know Cyril Overton + either?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes shook his head good-humouredly. + </p> + <p> + “Great Scot!” cried the athlete. “Why, I was first reserve for England + against Wales, and I've skippered the 'Varsity all this year. But that's + nothing! I didn't think there was a soul in England who didn't know + Godfrey Staunton, the crack three-quarter, Cambridge, Blackheath, and five + Internationals. Good Lord! Mr. Holmes, where HAVE you lived?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes laughed at the young giant's naive astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “You live in a different world to me, Mr. Overton, a sweeter and healthier + one. My ramifications stretch out into many sections of society, but + never, I am happy to say, into amateur sport, which is the best and + soundest thing in England. However, your unexpected visit this morning + shows me that even in that world of fresh air and fair play there may be + work for me to do; so now, my good sir, I beg you to sit down and to tell + me slowly and quietly exactly what it is that has occurred, and how you + desire that I should help you.” + </p> + <p> + Young Overton's face assumed the bothered look of the man who is more + accustomed to using his muscles than his wits; but by degrees, with many + repetitions and obscurities which I may omit from his narrative, he laid + his strange story before us. + </p> + <p> + “It's this way, Mr. Holmes. As I have said, I am the skipper of the Rugger + team of Cambridge 'Varsity, and Godfrey Staunton is my best man. To-morrow + we play Oxford. Yesterday we all came up and we settled at Bentley's + private hotel. At ten o'clock I went round and saw that all the fellows + had gone to roost, for I believe in strict training and plenty of sleep to + keep a team fit. I had a word or two with Godfrey before he turned in. He + seemed to me to be pale and bothered. I asked him what was the matter. He + said he was all right—just a touch of headache. I bade him + good-night and left him. Half an hour later the porter tells me that a + rough-looking man with a beard called with a note for Godfrey. He had not + gone to bed and the note was taken to his room. Godfrey read it and fell + back in a chair as if he had been pole-axed. The porter was so scared that + he was going to fetch me, but Godfrey stopped him, had a drink of water, + and pulled himself together. Then he went downstairs, said a few words to + the man who was waiting in the hall, and the two of them went off + together. The last that the porter saw of them, they were almost running + down the street in the direction of the Strand. This morning Godfrey's + room was empty, his bed had never been slept in, and his things were all + just as I had seen them the night before. He had gone off at a moment's + notice with this stranger, and no word has come from him since. I don't + believe he will ever come back. He was a sportsman, was Godfrey, down to + his marrow, and he wouldn't have stopped his training and let in his + skipper if it were not for some cause that was too strong for him. No; I + feel as if he were gone for good and we should never see him again.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes listened with the deepest attention to this singular + narrative. + </p> + <p> + “What did you do?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I wired to Cambridge to learn if anything had been heard of him there. I + have had an answer. No one has seen him.” + </p> + <p> + “Could he have got back to Cambridge?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there is a late train—quarter-past eleven.” + </p> + <p> + “But so far as you can ascertain he did not take it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, he has not been seen.” + </p> + <p> + “What did you do next?” + </p> + <p> + “I wired to Lord Mount-James.” + </p> + <p> + “Why to Lord Mount-James?” + </p> + <p> + “Godfrey is an orphan, and Lord Mount-James is his nearest relative—his + uncle, I believe.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed. This throws new light upon the matter. Lord Mount-James is one of + the richest men in England.” + </p> + <p> + “So I've heard Godfrey say.” + </p> + <p> + “And your friend was closely related?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he was his heir, and the old boy is nearly eighty—cram full of + gout, too. They say he could chalk his billiard-cue with his knuckles. He + never allowed Godfrey a shilling in his life, for he is an absolute miser, + but it will all come to him right enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard from Lord Mount-James?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “What motive could your friend have in going to Lord Mount-James?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, something was worrying him the night before, and if it was to do + with money it is possible that he would make for his nearest relative who + had so much of it, though from all I have heard he would not have much + chance of getting it. Godfrey was not fond of the old man. He would not go + if he could help it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we can soon determine that. If your friend was going to his + relative, Lord Mount-James, you have then to explain the visit of this + rough-looking fellow at so late an hour, and the agitation that was caused + by his coming.” + </p> + <p> + Cyril Overton pressed his hands to his head. “I can make nothing of it,” + said he. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, I have a clear day, and I shall be happy to look into the + matter,” said Holmes. “I should strongly recommend you to make your + preparations for your match without reference to this young gentleman. It + must, as you say, have been an overpowering necessity which tore him away + in such a fashion, and the same necessity is likely to hold him away. Let + us step round together to this hotel, and see if the porter can throw any + fresh light upon the matter.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes was a past-master in the art of putting a humble witness + at his ease, and very soon, in the privacy of Godfrey Staunton's abandoned + room, he had extracted all that the porter had to tell. The visitor of the + night before was not a gentleman, neither was he a working man. He was + simply what the porter described as a “medium-looking chap”; a man of + fifty, beard grizzled, pale face, quietly dressed. He seemed himself to be + agitated. The porter had observed his hand trembling when he had held out + the note. Godfrey Staunton had crammed the note into his pocket. Staunton + had not shaken hands with the man in the hall. They had exchanged a few + sentences, of which the porter had only distinguished the one word “time.” + Then they had hurried off in the manner described. It was just half-past + ten by the hall clock. + </p> + <p> + “Let me see,” said Holmes, seating himself on Staunton's bed. “You are the + day porter, are you not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; I go off duty at eleven.” + </p> + <p> + “The night porter saw nothing, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; one theatre party came in late. No one else.” + </p> + <p> + “Were you on duty all day yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you take any messages to Mr. Staunton?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; one telegram.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! that's interesting. What o'clock was this?” + </p> + <p> + “About six.” + </p> + <p> + “Where was Mr. Staunton when he received it?” + </p> + <p> + “Here in his room.” + </p> + <p> + “Were you present when he opened it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; I waited to see if there was an answer.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, was there?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. He wrote an answer.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you take it?” + </p> + <p> + “No; he took it himself.” + </p> + <p> + “But he wrote it in your presence?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. I was standing by the door, and he with his back turned at that + table. When he had written it he said, 'All right, porter, I will take + this myself.'” + </p> + <p> + “What did he write it with?” + </p> + <p> + “A pen, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Was the telegraphic form one of these on the table?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; it was the top one.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes rose. Taking the forms he carried them over to the window and + carefully examined that which was uppermost. + </p> + <p> + “It is a pity he did not write in pencil,” said he, throwing them down + again with a shrug of disappointment. “As you have no doubt frequently + observed, Watson, the impression usually goes through—a fact which + has dissolved many a happy marriage. However, I can find no trace here. I + rejoice, however, to perceive that he wrote with a broad-pointed quill + pen, and I can hardly doubt that we will find some impression upon this + blotting-pad. Ah, yes, surely this is the very thing!” + </p> + <p> + He tore off a strip of the blotting-paper and turned towards us the + following hieroglyphic:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + Cyril Overton was much excited. “Hold it to the glass!” he cried. + </p> + <p> + “That is unnecessary,” said Holmes. “The paper is thin, and the reverse + will give the message. Here it is.” He turned it over and we read:— + </p> + <p> + GRAPHIC + </p> + <p> + “So that is the tail end of the telegram which Godfrey Staunton dispatched + within a few hours of his disappearance. There are at least six words of + the message which have escaped us; but what remains—'Stand by us for + God's sake!'—proves that this young man saw a formidable danger + which approached him, and from which someone else could protect him. 'US,' + mark you! Another person was involved. Who should it be but the + pale-faced, bearded man, who seemed himself in so nervous a state? What, + then, is the connection between Godfrey Staunton and the bearded man? And + what is the third source from which each of them sought for help against + pressing danger? Our inquiry has already narrowed down to that.” + </p> + <p> + “We have only to find to whom that telegram is addressed,” I suggested. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly, my dear Watson. Your reflection, though profound, had already + crossed my mind. But I dare say it may have come to your notice that if + you walk into a post-office and demand to see the counterfoil of another + man's message there may be some disinclination on the part of the + officials to oblige you. There is so much red tape in these matters! + However, I have no doubt that with a little delicacy and finesse the end + may be attained. Meanwhile, I should like in your presence, Mr. Overton, + to go through these papers which have been left upon the table.” + </p> + <p> + There were a number of letters, bills, and note-books, which Holmes turned + over and examined with quick, nervous fingers and darting, penetrating + eyes. “Nothing here,” he said, at last. “By the way, I suppose your friend + was a healthy young fellow—nothing amiss with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Sound as a bell.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you ever known him ill?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a day. He has been laid up with a hack, and once he slipped his + knee-cap, but that was nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he was not so strong as you suppose. I should think he may have + had some secret trouble. With your assent I will put one or two of these + papers in my pocket, in case they should bear upon our future inquiry.” + </p> + <p> + “One moment! one moment!” cried a querulous voice, and we looked up to + find a queer little old man, jerking and twitching in the doorway. He was + dressed in rusty black, with a very broad brimmed top-hat and a loose + white necktie—the whole effect being that of a very rustic parson or + of an undertaker's mute. Yet, in spite of his shabby and even absurd + appearance, his voice had a sharp crackle, and his manner a quick + intensity which commanded attention. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, sir, and by what right do you touch this gentleman's + papers?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “I am a private detective, and I am endeavouring to explain his + disappearance.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you are, are you? And who instructed you, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “This gentleman, Mr. Staunton's friend, was referred to me by Scotland + Yard.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I am Cyril Overton.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it is you who sent me a telegram. My name is Lord Mount-James. I + came round as quickly as the Bayswater 'bus would bring me. So you have + instructed a detective?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And are you prepared to meet the cost?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt, sir, that my friend Godfrey, when we find him, will be + prepared to do that.” + </p> + <p> + “But if he is never found, eh? Answer me that!” + </p> + <p> + “In that case no doubt his family——” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of the sort, sir!” screamed the little man. “Don't look to me for + a penny—not a penny! You understand that, Mr. Detective! I am all + the family that this young man has got, and I tell you that I am not + responsible. If he has any expectations it is due to the fact that I have + never wasted money, and I do not propose to begin to do so now. As to + those papers with which you are making so free, I may tell you that in + case there should be anything of any value among them you will be held + strictly to account for what you do with them.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, sir,” said Sherlock Holmes. “May I ask in the meanwhile + whether you have yourself any theory to account for this young man's + disappearance?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I have not. He is big enough and old enough to look after + himself, and if he is so foolish as to lose himself I entirely refuse to + accept the responsibility of hunting for him.” + </p> + <p> + “I quite understand your position,” said Holmes, with a mischievous + twinkle in his eyes. “Perhaps you don't quite understand mine. Godfrey + Staunton appears to have been a poor man. If he has been kidnapped it + could not have been for anything which he himself possesses. The fame of + your wealth has gone abroad, Lord Mount-James, and it is entirely possible + that a gang of thieves have secured your nephew in order to gain from him + some information as to your house, your habits, and your treasure.” + </p> + <p> + The face of our unpleasant little visitor turned as white as his + neckcloth. + </p> + <p> + “Heavens, sir, what an idea! I never thought of such villainy! What + inhuman rogues there are in the world! But Godfrey is a fine lad—a + staunch lad. Nothing would induce him to give his old uncle away. I'll + have the plate moved over to the bank this evening. In the meantime spare + no pains, Mr. Detective! I beg you to leave no stone unturned to bring him + safely back. As to money, well, so far as a fiver, or even a tenner, goes, + you can always look to me.” + </p> + <p> + Even in his chastened frame of mind the noble miser could give us no + information which could help us, for he knew little of the private life of + his nephew. Our only clue lay in the truncated telegram, and with a copy + of this in his hand Holmes set forth to find a second link for his chain. + We had shaken off Lord Mount-James, and Overton had gone to consult with + the other members of his team over the misfortune which had befallen them. + </p> + <p> + There was a telegraph-office at a short distance from the hotel. We halted + outside it. + </p> + <p> + “It's worth trying, Watson,” said Holmes. “Of course, with a warrant we + could demand to see the counterfoils, but we have not reached that stage + yet. I don't suppose they remember faces in so busy a place. Let us + venture it.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to trouble you,” said he, in his blandest manner, to the young + woman behind the grating; “there is some small mistake about a telegram I + sent yesterday. I have had no answer, and I very much fear that I must + have omitted to put my name at the end. Could you tell me if this was so?” + </p> + <p> + The young woman turned over a sheaf of counterfoils. + </p> + <p> + “What o'clock was it?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “A little after six.” + </p> + <p> + “Whom was it to?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes put his finger to his lips and glanced at me. “The last words in it + were 'for God's sake,'” he whispered, confidentially; “I am very anxious + at getting no answer.” + </p> + <p> + The young woman separated one of the forms. + </p> + <p> + “This is it. There is no name,” said she, smoothing it out upon the + counter. + </p> + <p> + “Then that, of course, accounts for my getting no answer,” said Holmes. + “Dear me, how very stupid of me, to be sure! Good morning, miss, and many + thanks for having relieved my mind.” He chuckled and rubbed his hands when + we found ourselves in the street once more. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “We progress, my dear Watson, we progress. I had seven different schemes + for getting a glimpse of that telegram, but I could hardly hope to succeed + the very first time.” + </p> + <p> + “And what have you gained?” + </p> + <p> + “A starting-point for our investigation.” He hailed a cab. “King's Cross + Station,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “We have a journey, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I think we must run down to Cambridge together. All the indications + seem to me to point in that direction.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me,” I asked, as we rattled up Gray's Inn Road, “have you any + suspicion yet as to the cause of the disappearance? I don't think that + among all our cases I have known one where the motives are more obscure. + Surely you don't really imagine that he may be kidnapped in order to give + information against his wealthy uncle?” + </p> + <p> + “I confess, my dear Watson, that that does not appeal to me as a very + probable explanation. It struck me, however, as being the one which was + most likely to interest that exceedingly unpleasant old person.” + </p> + <p> + “It certainly did that. But what are your alternatives?” + </p> + <p> + “I could mention several. You must admit that it is curious and suggestive + that this incident should occur on the eve of this important match, and + should involve the only man whose presence seems essential to the success + of the side. It may, of course, be coincidence, but it is interesting. + Amateur sport is free from betting, but a good deal of outside betting + goes on among the public, and it is possible that it might be worth + someone's while to get at a player as the ruffians of the turf get at a + race-horse. There is one explanation. A second very obvious one is that + this young man really is the heir of a great property, however modest his + means may at present be, and it is not impossible that a plot to hold him + for ransom might be concocted.” + </p> + <p> + “These theories take no account of the telegram.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true, Watson. The telegram still remains the only solid thing with + which we have to deal, and we must not permit our attention to wander away + from it. It is to gain light upon the purpose of this telegram that we are + now upon our way to Cambridge. The path of our investigation is at present + obscure, but I shall be very much surprised if before evening we have not + cleared it up or made a considerable advance along it.” + </p> + <p> + It was already dark when we reached the old University city. Holmes took a + cab at the station, and ordered the man to drive to the house of Dr. + Leslie Armstrong. A few minutes later we had stopped at a large mansion in + the busiest thoroughfare. We were shown in, and after a long wait were at + last admitted into the consulting-room, where we found the doctor seated + behind his table. + </p> + <p> + It argues the degree in which I had lost touch with my profession that the + name of Leslie Armstrong was unknown to me. Now I am aware that he is not + only one of the heads of the medical school of the University, but a + thinker of European reputation in more than one branch of science. Yet + even without knowing his brilliant record one could not fail to be + impressed by a mere glance at the man, the square, massive face, the + brooding eyes under the thatched brows, and the granite moulding of the + inflexible jaw. A man of deep character, a man with an alert mind, grim, + ascetic, self-contained, formidable—so I read Dr. Leslie Armstrong. + He held my friend's card in his hand, and he looked up with no very + pleased expression upon his dour features. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard your name, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, and I am aware of your + profession, one of which I by no means approve.” + </p> + <p> + “In that, doctor, you will find yourself in agreement with every criminal + in the country,” said my friend, quietly. + </p> + <p> + “So far as your efforts are directed towards the suppression of crime, + sir, they must have the support of every reasonable member of the + community, though I cannot doubt that the official machinery is amply + sufficient for the purpose. Where your calling is more open to criticism + is when you pry into the secrets of private individuals, when you rake up + family matters which are better hidden, and when you incidentally waste + the time of men who are more busy than yourself. At the present moment, + for example, I should be writing a treatise instead of conversing with + you.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt, doctor; and yet the conversation may prove more important than + the treatise. Incidentally I may tell you that we are doing the reverse of + what you very justly blame, and that we are endeavouring to prevent + anything like public exposure of private matters which must necessarily + follow when once the case is fairly in the hands of the official police. + You may look upon me simply as an irregular pioneer who goes in front of + the regular forces of the country. I have come to ask you about Mr. + Godfrey Staunton.” + </p> + <p> + “What about him?” + </p> + <p> + “You know him, do you not?” + </p> + <p> + “He is an intimate friend of mine.” + </p> + <p> + “You are aware that he has disappeared?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, indeed!” There was no change of expression in the rugged features of + the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “He left his hotel last night. He has not been heard of.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt he will return.” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow is the 'Varsity football match.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no sympathy with these childish games. The young man's fate + interests me deeply, since I know him and like him. The football match + does not come within my horizon at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I claim your sympathy, then, in my investigation of Mr. Staunton's fate. + Do you know where he is?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not seen him since yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I have not.” + </p> + <p> + “Was Mr. Staunton a healthy man?” + </p> + <p> + “Absolutely.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you ever know him ill?” + </p> + <p> + “Never.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes popped a sheet of paper before the doctor's eyes. “Then perhaps you + will explain this receipted bill for thirteen guineas, paid by Mr. Godfrey + Staunton last month to Dr. Leslie Armstrong of Cambridge. I picked it out + from among the papers upon his desk.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor flushed with anger. + </p> + <p> + “I do not feel that there is any reason why I should render an explanation + to you, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes replaced the bill in his note-book. “If you prefer a public + explanation it must come sooner or later,” said he. “I have already told + you that I can hush up that which others will be bound to publish, and you + would really be wiser to take me into your complete confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you hear from Mr. Staunton in London?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me, dear me; the post-office again!” Holmes sighed, wearily. “A most + urgent telegram was dispatched to you from London by Godfrey Staunton at + six-fifteen yesterday evening—a telegram which is undoubtedly + associated with his disappearance—and yet you have not had it. It is + most culpable. I shall certainly go down to the office here and register a + complaint.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Leslie Armstrong sprang up from behind his desk, and his dark face was + crimson with fury. + </p> + <p> + “I'll trouble you to walk out of my house, sir,” said he. “You can tell + your employer, Lord Mount-James, that I do not wish to have anything to do + either with him or with his agents. No, sir, not another word!” He rang + the bell furiously. “John, show these gentlemen out!” A pompous butler + ushered us severely to the door, and we found ourselves in the street. + Holmes burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Dr. Leslie Armstrong is certainly a man of energy and character,” said + he. “I have not seen a man who, if he turned his talents that way, was + more calculated to fill the gap left by the illustrious Moriarty. And now, + my poor Watson, here we are, stranded and friendless in this inhospitable + town, which we cannot leave without abandoning our case. This little inn + just opposite Armstrong's house is singularly adapted to our needs. If you + would engage a front room and purchase the necessaries for the night, I + may have time to make a few inquiries.” + </p> + <p> + These few inquiries proved, however, to be a more lengthy proceeding than + Holmes had imagined, for he did not return to the inn until nearly nine + o'clock. He was pale and dejected, stained with dust, and exhausted with + hunger and fatigue. A cold supper was ready upon the table, and when his + needs were satisfied and his pipe alight he was ready to take that half + comic and wholly philosophic view which was natural to him when his + affairs were going awry. The sound of carriage wheels caused him to rise + and glance out of the window. A brougham and pair of greys under the glare + of a gas-lamp stood before the doctor's door. + </p> + <p> + “It's been out three hours,” said Holmes; “started at half-past six, and + here it is back again. That gives a radius of ten or twelve miles, and he + does it once, or sometimes twice, a day.” + </p> + <p> + “No unusual thing for a doctor in practice.” + </p> + <p> + “But Armstrong is not really a doctor in practice. He is a lecturer and a + consultant, but he does not care for general practice, which distracts him + from his literary work. Why, then, does he make these long journeys, which + must be exceedingly irksome to him, and who is it that he visits?” + </p> + <p> + “His coachman——” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Watson, can you doubt that it was to him that I first applied? I + do not know whether it came from his own innate depravity or from the + promptings of his master, but he was rude enough to set a dog at me. + Neither dog nor man liked the look of my stick, however, and the matter + fell through. Relations were strained after that, and further inquiries + out of the question. All that I have learned I got from a friendly native + in the yard of our own inn. It was he who told me of the doctor's habits + and of his daily journey. At that instant, to give point to his words, the + carriage came round to the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you not follow it?” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent, Watson! You are scintillating this evening. The idea did cross + my mind. There is, as you may have observed, a bicycle shop next to our + inn. Into this I rushed, engaged a bicycle, and was able to get started + before the carriage was quite out of sight. I rapidly overtook it, and + then, keeping at a discreet distance of a hundred yards or so, I followed + its lights until we were clear of the town. We had got well out on the + country road when a somewhat mortifying incident occurred. The carriage + stopped, the doctor alighted, walked swiftly back to where I had also + halted, and told me in an excellent sardonic fashion that he feared the + road was narrow, and that he hoped his carriage did not impede the passage + of my bicycle. Nothing could have been more admirable than his way of + putting it. I at once rode past the carriage, and, keeping to the main + road, I went on for a few miles, and then halted in a convenient place to + see if the carriage passed. There was no sign of it, however, and so it + became evident that it had turned down one of several side roads which I + had observed. I rode back, but again saw nothing of the carriage, and now, + as you perceive, it has returned after me. Of course, I had at the outset + no particular reason to connect these journeys with the disappearance of + Godfrey Staunton, and was only inclined to investigate them on the general + grounds that everything which concerns Dr. Armstrong is at present of + interest to us; but, now that I find he keeps so keen a look-out upon + anyone who may follow him on these excursions, the affair appears more + important, and I shall not be satisfied until I have made the matter + clear.” + </p> + <p> + “We can follow him to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Can we? It is not so easy as you seem to think. You are not familiar with + Cambridgeshire scenery, are you? It does not lend itself to concealment. + All this country that I passed over to-night is as flat and clean as the + palm of your hand, and the man we are following is no fool, as he very + clearly showed to-night. I have wired to Overton to let us know any fresh + London developments at this address, and in the meantime we can only + concentrate our attention upon Dr. Armstrong, whose name the obliging + young lady at the office allowed me to read upon the counterfoil of + Staunton's urgent message. He knows where the young man is—to that + I'll swear—and if he knows, then it must be our own fault if we + cannot manage to know also. At present it must be admitted that the odd + trick is in his possession, and, as you are aware, Watson, it is not my + habit to leave the game in that condition.” + </p> + <p> + And yet the next day brought us no nearer to the solution of the mystery. + A note was handed in after breakfast, which Holmes passed across to me + with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” it ran, “I can assure you that you are wasting your time in dogging + my movements. I have, as you discovered last night, a window at the back + of my brougham, and if you desire a twenty-mile ride which will lead you + to the spot from which you started, you have only to follow me. Meanwhile, + I can inform you that no spying upon me can in any way help Mr. Godfrey + Staunton, and I am convinced that the best service you can do to that + gentleman is to return at once to London and to report to your employer + that you are unable to trace him. Your time in Cambridge will certainly be + wasted. + </p> + <p> + “Yours faithfully, + </p> + <p> + “LESLIE ARMSTRONG.” + </p> + <p> + “An outspoken, honest antagonist is the doctor,” said Holmes. “Well, well, + he excites my curiosity, and I must really know more before I leave him.” + </p> + <p> + “His carriage is at his door now,” said I. “There he is stepping into it. + I saw him glance up at our window as he did so. Suppose I try my luck upon + the bicycle?” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, my dear Watson! With all respect for your natural acumen I do not + think that you are quite a match for the worthy doctor. I think that + possibly I can attain our end by some independent explorations of my own. + I am afraid that I must leave you to your own devices, as the appearance + of TWO inquiring strangers upon a sleepy countryside might excite more + gossip than I care for. No doubt you will find some sights to amuse you in + this venerable city, and I hope to bring back a more favourable report to + you before evening.” + </p> + <p> + Once more, however, my friend was destined to be disappointed. He came + back at night weary and unsuccessful. + </p> + <p> + “I have had a blank day, Watson. Having got the doctor's general + direction, I spent the day in visiting all the villages upon that side of + Cambridge, and comparing notes with publicans and other local news + agencies. I have covered some ground: Chesterton, Histon, Waterbeach, and + Oakington have each been explored and have each proved disappointing. The + daily appearance of a brougham and pair could hardly have been overlooked + in such Sleepy Hollows. The doctor has scored once more. Is there a + telegram for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I opened it. Here it is: 'Ask for Pompey from Jeremy Dixon, Trinity + College.' I don't understand it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it is clear enough. It is from our friend Overton, and is in answer + to a question from me. I'll just send round a note to Mr. Jeremy Dixon, + and then I have no doubt that our luck will turn. By the way, is there any + news of the match?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the local evening paper has an excellent account in its last + edition. Oxford won by a goal and two tries. The last sentences of the + description say: 'The defeat of the Light Blues may be entirely attributed + to the unfortunate absence of the crack International, Godfrey Staunton, + whose want was felt at every instant of the game. The lack of combination + in the three-quarter line and their weakness both in attack and defence + more than neutralized the efforts of a heavy and hard-working pack.'” + </p> + <p> + “Then our friend Overton's forebodings have been justified,” said Holmes. + “Personally I am in agreement with Dr. Armstrong, and football does not + come within my horizon. Early to bed to-night, Watson, for I foresee that + to-morrow may be an eventful day.” + </p> + <p> + I was horrified by my first glimpse of Holmes next morning, for he sat by + the fire holding his tiny hypodermic syringe. I associated that instrument + with the single weakness of his nature, and I feared the worst when I saw + it glittering in his hand. He laughed at my expression of dismay, and laid + it upon the table. + </p> + <p> + “No, no, my dear fellow, there is no cause for alarm. It is not upon this + occasion the instrument of evil, but it will rather prove to be the key + which will unlock our mystery. On this syringe I base all my hopes. I have + just returned from a small scouting expedition and everything is + favourable. Eat a good breakfast, Watson, for I propose to get upon Dr. + Armstrong's trail to-day, and once on it I will not stop for rest or food + until I run him to his burrow.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” said I, “we had best carry our breakfast with us, for he + is making an early start. His carriage is at the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind. Let him go. He will be clever if he can drive where I cannot + follow him. When you have finished come downstairs with me, and I will + introduce you to a detective who is a very eminent specialist in the work + that lies before us.” + </p> + <p> + When we descended I followed Holmes into the stable yard, where he opened + the door of a loose-box and led out a squat, lop-eared, white-and-tan dog, + something between a beagle and a foxhound. + </p> + <p> + “Let me introduce you to Pompey,” said he. “Pompey is the pride of the + local draghounds, no very great flier, as his build will show, but a + staunch hound on a scent. Well, Pompey, you may not be fast, but I expect + you will be too fast for a couple of middle-aged London gentlemen, so I + will take the liberty of fastening this leather leash to your collar. Now, + boy, come along, and show what you can do.” He led him across to the + doctor's door. The dog sniffed round for an instant, and then with a + shrill whine of excitement started off down the street, tugging at his + leash in his efforts to go faster. In half an hour, we were clear of the + town and hastening down a country road. + </p> + <p> + “What have you done, Holmes?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “A threadbare and venerable device, but useful upon occasion. I walked + into the doctor's yard this morning and shot my syringe full of aniseed + over the hind wheel. A draghound will follow aniseed from here to John o' + Groat's, and our friend Armstrong would have to drive through the Cam + before he would shake Pompey off his trail. Oh, the cunning rascal! This + is how he gave me the slip the other night.” + </p> + <p> + The dog had suddenly turned out of the main road into a grass-grown lane. + Half a mile farther this opened into another broad road, and the trail + turned hard to the right in the direction of the town, which we had just + quitted. The road took a sweep to the south of the town and continued in + the opposite direction to that in which we started. + </p> + <p> + “This DETOUR has been entirely for our benefit, then?” said Holmes. “No + wonder that my inquiries among those villages led to nothing. The doctor + has certainly played the game for all it is worth, and one would like to + know the reason for such elaborate deception. This should be the village + of Trumpington to the right of us. And, by Jove! here is the brougham + coming round the corner. Quick, Watson, quick, or we are done!” + </p> + <p> + He sprang through a gate into a field, dragging the reluctant Pompey after + him. We had hardly got under the shelter of the hedge when the carriage + rattled past. I caught a glimpse of Dr. Armstrong within, his shoulders + bowed, his head sunk on his hands, the very image of distress. I could + tell by my companion's graver face that he also had seen. + </p> + <p> + “I fear there is some dark ending to our quest,” said he. “It cannot be + long before we know it. Come, Pompey! Ah, it is the cottage in the field!” + </p> + <p> + There could be no doubt that we had reached the end of our journey. Pompey + ran about and whined eagerly outside the gate where the marks of the + brougham's wheels were still to be seen. A footpath led across to the + lonely cottage. Holmes tied the dog to the hedge, and we hastened onwards. + My friend knocked at the little rustic door, and knocked again without + response. And yet the cottage was not deserted, for a low sound came to + our ears—a kind of drone of misery and despair, which was + indescribably melancholy. Holmes paused irresolute, and then he glanced + back at the road which we had just traversed. A brougham was coming down + it, and there could be no mistaking those grey horses. + </p> + <p> + “By Jove, the doctor is coming back!” cried Holmes. “That settles it. We + are bound to see what it means before he comes.” + </p> + <p> + He opened the door and we stepped into the hall. The droning sound swelled + louder upon our ears until it became one long, deep wail of distress. It + came from upstairs. Holmes darted up and I followed him. He pushed open a + half-closed door and we both stood appalled at the sight before us. + </p> + <p> + A woman, young and beautiful, was lying dead upon the bed. Her calm, pale + face, with dim, wide-opened blue eyes, looked upward from amid a great + tangle of golden hair. At the foot of the bed, half sitting, half + kneeling, his face buried in the clothes, was a young man, whose frame was + racked by his sobs. So absorbed was he by his bitter grief that he never + looked up until Holmes's hand was on his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Are you Mr. Godfrey Staunton?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; I am—but you are too late. She is dead.” + </p> + <p> + The man was so dazed that he could not be made to understand that we were + anything but doctors who had been sent to his assistance. Holmes was + endeavouring to utter a few words of consolation, and to explain the alarm + which had been caused to his friends by his sudden disappearance, when + there was a step upon the stairs, and there was the heavy, stern, + questioning face of Dr. Armstrong at the door. + </p> + <p> + “So, gentlemen,” said he, “you have attained your end, and have certainly + chosen a particularly delicate moment for your intrusion. I would not + brawl in the presence of death, but I can assure you that if I were a + younger man your monstrous conduct would not pass with impunity.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, Dr. Armstrong, I think we are a little at cross-purposes,” + said my friend, with dignity. “If you could step downstairs with us we may + each be able to give some light to the other upon this miserable affair.” + </p> + <p> + A minute later the grim doctor and ourselves were in the sitting-room + below. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I wish you to understand, in the first place, that I am not employed by + Lord Mount-James, and that my sympathies in this matter are entirely + against that nobleman. When a man is lost it is my duty to ascertain his + fate, but having done so the matter ends so far as I am concerned; and so + long as there is nothing criminal, I am much more anxious to hush up + private scandals than to give them publicity. If, as I imagine, there is + no breach of the law in this matter, you can absolutely depend upon my + discretion and my co-operation in keeping the facts out of the papers.” + </p> + <p> + Dr. Armstrong took a quick step forward and wrung Holmes by the hand. + </p> + <p> + “You are a good fellow,” said he. “I had misjudged you. I thank Heaven + that my compunction at leaving poor Staunton all alone in this plight + caused me to turn my carriage back, and so to make your acquaintance. + Knowing as much as you do, the situation is very easily explained. A year + ago Godfrey Staunton lodged in London for a time, and became passionately + attached to his landlady's daughter, whom he married. She was as good as + she was beautiful, and as intelligent as she was good. No man need be + ashamed of such a wife. But Godfrey was the heir to this crabbed old + nobleman, and it was quite certain that the news of his marriage would + have been the end of his inheritance. I knew the lad well, and I loved him + for his many excellent qualities. I did all I could to help him to keep + things straight. We did our very best to keep the thing from everyone, for + when once such a whisper gets about it is not long before everyone has + heard it. Thanks to this lonely cottage and his own discretion, Godfrey + has up to now succeeded. Their secret was known to no one save to me and + to one excellent servant who has at present gone for assistance to + Trumpington. But at last there came a terrible blow in the shape of + dangerous illness to his wife. It was consumption of the most virulent + kind. The poor boy was half crazed with grief, and yet he had to go to + London to play this match, for he could not get out of it without + explanations which would expose his secret. I tried to cheer him up by a + wire, and he sent me one in reply imploring me to do all I could. This was + the telegram which you appear in some inexplicable way to have seen. I did + not tell him how urgent the danger was, for I knew that he could do no + good here, but I sent the truth to the girl's father, and he very + injudiciously communicated it to Godfrey. The result was that he came + straight away in a state bordering on frenzy, and has remained in the same + state, kneeling at the end of her bed, until this morning death put an end + to her sufferings. That is all, Mr. Holmes, and I am sure that I can rely + upon your discretion and that of your friend.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes grasped the doctor's hand. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Watson,” said he, and we passed from that house of grief into the + pale sunlight of the winter day. + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 28 SEPTEMBER, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + XII.—The Adventure of the Abbey Grange. + </h2> + <p> + It was on a bitterly cold and frosty morning during the winter of '97 that + I was awakened by a tugging at my shoulder. It was Holmes. The candle in + his hand shone upon his eager, stooping face and told me at a glance that + something was amiss. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Watson, come!” he cried. “The game is afoot. Not a word! Into your + clothes and come!” + </p> + <p> + Ten minutes later we were both in a cab and rattling through the silent + streets on our way to Charing Cross Station. The first faint winter's dawn + was beginning to appear, and we could dimly see the occasional figure of + an early workman as he passed us, blurred and indistinct in the opalescent + London reek. Holmes nestled in silence into his heavy coat, and I was glad + to do the same, for the air was most bitter and neither of us had broken + our fast. It was not until we had consumed some hot tea at the station, + and taken our places in the Kentish train, that we were sufficiently + thawed, he to speak and I to listen. Holmes drew a note from his pocket + and read it aloud:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Abbey Grange, Marsham, Kent, + “3.30 a.m. + “MY DEAR MR. HOLMES,—I should be very glad of your immediate + assistance in what promises to be a most remarkable case. + It is something quite in your line. Except for releasing the lady + I will see that everything is kept exactly as I have found it, + but I beg you not to lose an instant, as it is difficult to leave + Sir Eustace there. + “Yours faithfully, STANLEY HOPKINS.” + </pre> + <p> + “Hopkins has called me in seven times, and on each occasion his summons + has been entirely justified,” said Holmes. “I fancy that every one of his + cases has found its way into your collection, and I must admit, Watson, + that you have some power of selection which atones for much which I + deplore in your narratives. Your fatal habit of looking at everything from + the point of view of a story instead of as a scientific exercise has + ruined what might have been an instructive and even classical series of + demonstrations. You slur over work of the utmost finesse and delicacy in + order to dwell upon sensational details which may excite, but cannot + possibly instruct, the reader.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you not write them yourself?” I said, with some bitterness. + </p> + <p> + “I will, my dear Watson, I will. At present I am, as you know, fairly + busy, but I propose to devote my declining years to the composition of a + text-book which shall focus the whole art of detection into one volume. + Our present research appears to be a case of murder.” + </p> + <p> + “You think this Sir Eustace is dead, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I should say so. Hopkins's writing shows considerable agitation, and he + is not an emotional man. Yes, I gather there has been violence, and that + the body is left for our inspection. A mere suicide would not have caused + him to send for me. As to the release of the lady, it would appear that + she has been locked in her room during the tragedy. We are moving in high + life, Watson; crackling paper, 'E.B.' monogram, coat-of-arms, picturesque + address. I think that friend Hopkins will live up to his reputation and + that we shall have an interesting morning. The crime was committed before + twelve last night.” + </p> + <p> + “How can you possibly tell?” + </p> + <p> + “By an inspection of the trains and by reckoning the time. The local + police had to be called in, they had to communicate with Scotland Yard, + Hopkins had to go out, and he in turn had to send for me. All that makes a + fair night's work. Well, here we are at Chislehurst Station, and we shall + soon set our doubts at rest.” + </p> + <p> + A drive of a couple of miles through narrow country lanes brought us to a + park gate, which was opened for us by an old lodge-keeper, whose haggard + face bore the reflection of some great disaster. The avenue ran through a + noble park, between lines of ancient elms, and ended in a low, widespread + house, pillared in front after the fashion of Palladio. The central part + was evidently of a great age and shrouded in ivy, but the large windows + showed that modern changes had been carried out, and one wing of the house + appeared to be entirely new. The youthful figure and alert, eager face of + Inspector Stanley Hopkins confronted us in the open doorway. + </p> + <p> + “I'm very glad you have come, Mr. Holmes. And you too, Dr. Watson! But, + indeed, if I had my time over again I should not have troubled you, for + since the lady has come to herself she has given so clear an account of + the affair that there is not much left for us to do. You remember that + Lewisham gang of burglars?” + </p> + <p> + “What, the three Randalls?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly; the father and two sons. It's their work. I have not a doubt of + it. They did a job at Sydenham a fortnight ago, and were seen and + described. Rather cool to do another so soon and so near, but it is they, + beyond all doubt. It's a hanging matter this time.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Eustace is dead, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; his head was knocked in with his own poker.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir Eustace Brackenstall, the driver tells me.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly—one of the richest men in Kent. Lady Brackenstall is in the + morning-room. Poor lady, she has had a most dreadful experience. She + seemed half dead when I saw her first. I think you had best see her and + hear her account of the facts. Then we will examine the dining-room + together.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Brackenstall was no ordinary person. Seldom have I seen so graceful a + figure, so womanly a presence, and so beautiful a face. She was a blonde, + golden-haired, blue-eyed, and would, no doubt, have had the perfect + complexion which goes with such colouring had not her recent experience + left her drawn and haggard. Her sufferings were physical as well as + mental, for over one eye rose a hideous, plum-coloured swelling, which her + maid, a tall, austere woman, was bathing assiduously with vinegar and + water. The lady lay back exhausted upon a couch, but her quick, observant + gaze as we entered the room, and the alert expression of her beautiful + features, showed that neither her wits nor her courage had been shaken by + her terrible experience. She was enveloped in a loose dressing-gown of + blue and silver, but a black sequin-covered dinner-dress was hung upon the + couch beside her. + </p> + <p> + “I have told you all that happened, Mr. Hopkins,” she said, wearily; + “could you not repeat it for me? Well, if you think it necessary, I will + tell these gentlemen what occurred. Have they been in the dining-room + yet?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought they had better hear your ladyship's story first.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be glad when you can arrange matters. It is horrible to me to + think of him still lying there.” She shuddered and buried her face in her + hands. As she did so the loose gown fell back from her forearms. Holmes + uttered an exclamation. + </p> + <p> + “You have other injuries, madam! What is this?” Two vivid red spots stood + out on one of the white, round limbs. She hastily covered it. + </p> + <p> + “It is nothing. It has no connection with the hideous business of last + night. If you and your friend will sit down I will tell you all I can. + </p> + <p> + “I am the wife of Sir Eustace Brackenstall. I have been married about a + year. I suppose that it is no use my attempting to conceal that our + marriage has not been a happy one. I fear that all our neighbours would + tell you that, even if I were to attempt to deny it. Perhaps the fault may + be partly mine. I was brought up in the freer, less conventional + atmosphere of South Australia, and this English life, with its proprieties + and its primness, is not congenial to me. But the main reason lies in the + one fact which is notorious to everyone, and that is that Sir Eustace was + a confirmed drunkard. To be with such a man for an hour is unpleasant. Can + you imagine what it means for a sensitive and high-spirited woman to be + tied to him for day and night? It is a sacrilege, a crime, a villainy to + hold that such a marriage is binding. I say that these monstrous laws of + yours will bring a curse upon the land—Heaven will not let such + wickedness endure.” For an instant she sat up, her cheeks flushed, and her + eyes blazing from under the terrible mark upon her brow. Then the strong, + soothing hand of the austere maid drew her head down on to the cushion, + and the wild anger died away into passionate sobbing. At last she + continued:— + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you about last night. You are aware, perhaps, that in this + house all servants sleep in the modern wing. This central block is made up + of the dwelling-rooms, with the kitchen behind and our bedroom above. My + maid Theresa sleeps above my room. There is no one else, and no sound + could alarm those who are in the farther wing. This must have been well + known to the robbers, or they would not have acted as they did. + </p> + <p> + “Sir Eustace retired about half-past ten. The servants had already gone to + their quarters. Only my maid was up, and she had remained in her room at + the top of the house until I needed her services. I sat until after eleven + in this room, absorbed in a book. Then I walked round to see that all was + right before I went upstairs. It was my custom to do this myself, for, as + I have explained, Sir Eustace was not always to be trusted. I went into + the kitchen, the butler's pantry, the gun-room, the billiard-room, the + drawing-room, and finally the dining-room. As I approached the window, + which is covered with thick curtains, I suddenly felt the wind blow upon + my face and realized that it was open. I flung the curtain aside and found + myself face to face with a broad-shouldered, elderly man who had just + stepped into the room. The window is a long French one, which really forms + a door leading to the lawn. I held my bedroom candle lit in my hand, and, + by its light, behind the first man I saw two others, who were in the act + of entering. I stepped back, but the fellow was on me in an instant. He + caught me first by the wrist and then by the throat. I opened my mouth to + scream, but he struck me a savage blow with his fist over the eye, and + felled me to the ground. I must have been unconscious for a few minutes, + for when I came to myself I found that they had torn down the bell-rope + and had secured me tightly to the oaken chair which stands at the head of + the dining-room table. I was so firmly bound that I could not move, and a + handkerchief round my mouth prevented me from uttering any sound. It was + at this instant that my unfortunate husband entered the room. He had + evidently heard some suspicious sounds, and he came prepared for such a + scene as he found. He was dressed in his shirt and trousers, with his + favourite blackthorn cudgel in his hand. He rushed at one of the burglars, + but another—it was the elderly man—stooped, picked the poker + out of the grate, and struck him a horrible blow as he passed. He fell + without a groan, and never moved again. I fainted once more, but again it + could only have been a very few minutes during which I was insensible. + When I opened my eyes I found that they had collected the silver from the + sideboard, and they had drawn a bottle of wine which stood there. Each of + them had a glass in his hand. I have already told you, have I not, that + one was elderly, with a beard, and the others young, hairless lads. They + might have been a father with his two sons. They talked together in + whispers. Then they came over and made sure that I was still securely + bound. Finally they withdrew, closing the window after them. It was quite + a quarter of an hour before I got my mouth free. When I did so my screams + brought the maid to my assistance. The other servants were soon alarmed, + and we sent for the local police, who instantly communicated with London. + That is really all that I can tell you, gentlemen, and I trust that it + will not be necessary for me to go over so painful a story again.” + </p> + <p> + “Any questions, Mr. Holmes?” asked Hopkins. + </p> + <p> + “I will not impose any further tax upon Lady Brackenstall's patience and + time,” said Holmes. “Before I go into the dining-room I should like to + hear your experience.” He looked at the maid. + </p> + <p> + “I saw the men before ever they came into the house,” said she. “As I sat + by my bedroom window I saw three men in the moonlight down by the lodge + gate yonder, but I thought nothing of it at the time. It was more than an + hour after that I heard my mistress scream, and down I ran, to find her, + poor lamb, just as she says, and him on the floor with his blood and + brains over the room. It was enough to drive a woman out of her wits, tied + there, and her very dress spotted with him; but she never wanted courage, + did Miss Mary Fraser of Adelaide, and Lady Brackenstall of Abbey Grange + hasn't learned new ways. You've questioned her long enough, you gentlemen, + and now she is coming to her own room, just with her old Theresa, to get + the rest that she badly needs.” + </p> + <p> + With a motherly tenderness the gaunt woman put her arm round her mistress + and led her from the room. + </p> + <p> + “She has been with her all her life,” said Hopkins. “Nursed her as a baby, + and came with her to England when they first left Australia eighteen + months ago. Theresa Wright is her name, and the kind of maid you don't + pick up nowadays. This way, Mr. Holmes, if you please!” + </p> + <p> + The keen interest had passed out of Holmes's expressive face, and I knew + that with the mystery all the charm of the case had departed. There still + remained an arrest to be effected, but what were these commonplace rogues + that he should soil his hands with them? An abstruse and learned + specialist who finds that he has been called in for a case of measles + would experience something of the annoyance which I read in my friend's + eyes. Yet the scene in the dining-room of the Abbey Grange was + sufficiently strange to arrest his attention and to recall his waning + interest. + </p> + <p> + It was a very large and high chamber, with carved oak ceiling, oaken + panelling, and a fine array of deer's heads and ancient weapons around the + walls. At the farther end from the door was the high French window of + which we had heard. Three smaller windows on the right-hand side filled + the apartment with cold winter sunshine. On the left was a large, deep + fireplace, with a massive, over-hanging oak mantelpiece. Beside the + fireplace was a heavy oaken chair with arms and cross-bars at the bottom. + In and out through the open woodwork was woven a crimson cord, which was + secured at each side to the crosspiece below. In releasing the lady the + cord had been slipped off her, but the knots with which it had been + secured still remained. These details only struck our attention + afterwards, for our thoughts were entirely absorbed by the terrible object + which lay upon the tiger-skin hearthrug in front of the fire. + </p> + <p> + It was the body of a tall, well-made man, about forty years of age. He lay + upon his back, his face upturned, with his white teeth grinning through + his short black beard. His two clenched hands were raised above his head, + and a heavy blackthorn stick lay across them. His dark, handsome, aquiline + features were convulsed into a spasm of vindictive hatred, which had set + his dead face in a terribly fiendish expression. He had evidently been in + his bed when the alarm had broken out, for he wore a foppish embroidered + night-shirt, and his bare feet projected from his trousers. His head was + horribly injured, and the whole room bore witness to the savage ferocity + of the blow which had struck him down. Beside him lay the heavy poker, + bent into a curve by the concussion. Holmes examined both it and the + indescribable wreck which it had wrought. + </p> + <p> + “He must be a powerful man, this elder Randall,” he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Hopkins. “I have some record of the fellow, and he is a rough + customer.” + </p> + <p> + “You should have no difficulty in getting him.” + </p> + <p> + “Not the slightest. We have been on the look-out for him, and there was + some idea that he had got away to America. Now that we know the gang are + here I don't see how they can escape. We have the news at every seaport + already, and a reward will be offered before evening. What beats me is how + they could have done so mad a thing, knowing that the lady could describe + them, and that we could not fail to recognise the description.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. One would have expected that they would have silenced Lady + Brackenstall as well.” + </p> + <p> + “They may not have realized,” I suggested, “that she had recovered from + her faint.” + </p> + <p> + “That is likely enough. If she seemed to be senseless they would not take + her life. What about this poor fellow, Hopkins? I seem to have heard some + queer stories about him.” + </p> + <p> + “He was a good-hearted man when he was sober, but a perfect fiend when he + was drunk, or rather when he was half drunk, for he seldom really went the + whole way. The devil seemed to be in him at such times, and he was capable + of anything. From what I hear, in spite of all his wealth and his title, + he very nearly came our way once or twice. There was a scandal about his + drenching a dog with petroleum and setting it on fire—her ladyship's + dog, to make the matter worse—and that was only hushed up with + difficulty. Then he threw a decanter at that maid, Theresa Wright; there + was trouble about that. On the whole, and between ourselves, it will be a + brighter house without him. What are you looking at now?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes was down on his knees examining with great attention the knots upon + the red cord with which the lady had been secured. Then he carefully + scrutinized the broken and frayed end where it had snapped off when the + burglar had dragged it down. + </p> + <p> + “When this was pulled down the bell in the kitchen must have rung loudly,” + he remarked. + </p> + <p> + “No one could hear it. The kitchen stands right at the back of the house.” + </p> + <p> + “How did the burglar know no one would hear it? How dared he pull at a + bell-rope in that reckless fashion?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly, Mr. Holmes, exactly. You put the very question which I have + asked myself again and again. There can be no doubt that this fellow must + have known the house and its habits. He must have perfectly understood + that the servants would all be in bed at that comparatively early hour, + and that no one could possibly hear a bell ring in the kitchen. Therefore + he must have been in close league with one of the servants. Surely that is + evident. But there are eight servants, and all of good character.” + </p> + <p> + “Other things being equal,” said Holmes, “one would suspect the one at + whose head the master threw a decanter. And yet that would involve + treachery towards the mistress to whom this woman seems devoted. Well, + well, the point is a minor one, and when you have Randall you will + probably find no difficulty in securing his accomplice. The lady's story + certainly seems to be corroborated, if it needed corroboration, by every + detail which we see before us.” He walked to the French window and threw + it open. “There are no signs here, but the ground is iron hard, and one + would not expect them. I see that these candles on the mantelpiece have + been lighted.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; it was by their light and that of the lady's bedroom candle that the + burglars saw their way about.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did they take?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, they did not take much—only half-a-dozen articles of plate + off the sideboard. Lady Brackenstall thinks that they were themselves so + disturbed by the death of Sir Eustace that they did not ransack the house + as they would otherwise have done.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt that is true. And yet they drank some wine, I understand.” + </p> + <p> + “To steady their own nerves.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. These three glasses upon the sideboard have been untouched, I + suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; and the bottle stands as they left it.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us look at it. Halloa! halloa! what is this?” + </p> + <p> + The three glasses were grouped together, all of them tinged with wine, and + one of them containing some dregs of bees-wing. The bottle stood near + them, two-thirds full, and beside it lay a long, deeply-stained cork. Its + appearance and the dust upon the bottle showed that it was no common + vintage which the murderers had enjoyed. + </p> + <p> + A change had come over Holmes's manner. He had lost his listless + expression, and again I saw an alert light of interest in his keen, + deep-set eyes. He raised the cork and examined it minutely. + </p> + <p> + “How did they draw it?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + Hopkins pointed to a half-opened drawer. In it lay some table linen and a + large cork-screw. + </p> + <p> + “Did Lady Brackenstall say that screw was used?” + </p> + <p> + “No; you remember that she was senseless at the moment when the bottle was + opened.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so. As a matter of fact that screw was NOT used. This bottle was + opened by a pocket-screw, probably contained in a knife, and not more than + an inch and a half long. If you examine the top of the cork you will + observe that the screw was driven in three times before the cork was + extracted. It has never been transfixed. This long screw would have + transfixed it and drawn it with a single pull. When you catch this fellow + you will find that he has one of these multiplex knives in his + possession.” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent!” said Hopkins. + </p> + <p> + “But these glasses do puzzle me, I confess. Lady Brackenstall actually SAW + the three men drinking, did she not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; she was clear about that.” + </p> + <p> + “Then there is an end of it. What more is to be said? And yet you must + admit that the three glasses are very remarkable, Hopkins. What, you see + nothing remarkable! Well, well, let it pass. Perhaps when a man has + special knowledge and special powers like my own it rather encourages him + to seek a complex explanation when a simpler one is at hand. Of course, it + must be a mere chance about the glasses. Well, good morning, Hopkins. I + don't see that I can be of any use to you, and you appear to have your + case very clear. You will let me know when Randall is arrested, and any + further developments which may occur. I trust that I shall soon have to + congratulate you upon a successful conclusion. Come, Watson, I fancy that + we may employ ourselves more profitably at home.” + </p> + <p> + During our return journey I could see by Holmes's face that he was much + puzzled by something which he had observed. Every now and then, by an + effort, he would throw off the impression and talk as if the matter were + clear, but then his doubts would settle down upon him again, and his + knitted brows and abstracted eyes would show that his thoughts had gone + back once more to the great dining-room of the Abbey Grange in which this + midnight tragedy had been enacted. At last, by a sudden impulse, just as + our train was crawling out of a suburban station, he sprang on to the + platform and pulled me out after him. + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, my dear fellow,” said he, as we watched the rear carriages of + our train disappearing round a curve; “I am sorry to make you the victim + of what may seem a mere whim, but on my life, Watson, I simply CAN'T leave + that case in this condition. Every instinct that I possess cries out + against it. It's wrong—it's all wrong—I'll swear that it's + wrong. And yet the lady's story was complete, the maid's corroboration was + sufficient, the detail was fairly exact. What have I to put against that? + Three wine-glasses, that is all. But if I had not taken things for + granted, if I had examined everything with the care which I would have + shown had we approached the case DE NOVO and had no cut-and-dried story to + warp my mind, would I not then have found something more definite to go + upon? Of course I should. Sit down on this bench, Watson, until a train + for Chislehurst arrives, and allow me to lay the evidence before you, + imploring you in the first instance to dismiss from your mind the idea + that anything which the maid or her mistress may have said must + necessarily be true. The lady's charming personality must not be permitted + to warp our judgment. + </p> + <p> + “Surely there are details in her story which, if we looked at it in cold + blood, would excite our suspicion. These burglars made a considerable haul + at Sydenham a fortnight ago. Some account of them and of their appearance + was in the papers, and would naturally occur to anyone who wished to + invent a story in which imaginary robbers should play a part. As a matter + of fact, burglars who have done a good stroke of business are, as a rule, + only too glad to enjoy the proceeds in peace and quiet without embarking + on another perilous undertaking. Again, it is unusual for burglars to + operate at so early an hour; it is unusual for burglars to strike a lady + to prevent her screaming, since one would imagine that was the sure way to + make her scream; it is unusual for them to commit murder when their + numbers are sufficient to overpower one man; it is unusual for them to be + content with a limited plunder when there is much more within their reach; + and finally I should say that it was very unusual for such men to leave a + bottle half empty. How do all these unusuals strike you, Watson?” + </p> + <p> + “Their cumulative effect is certainly considerable, and yet each of them + is quite possible in itself. The most unusual thing of all, as it seems to + me, is that the lady should be tied to the chair.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am not so clear about that, Watson; for it is evident that they + must either kill her or else secure her in such a way that she could not + give immediate notice of their escape. But at any rate I have shown, have + I not, that there is a certain element of improbability about the lady's + story? And now on the top of this comes the incident of the wine-glasses.” + </p> + <p> + “What about the wine-glasses?” + </p> + <p> + “Can you see them in your mind's eye?” + </p> + <p> + “I see them clearly.” + </p> + <p> + “We are told that three men drank from them. Does that strike you as + likely?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not? There was wine in each glass.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly; but there was bees-wing only in one glass. You must have noticed + that fact. What does that suggest to your mind?” + </p> + <p> + “The last glass filled would be most likely to contain bees-wing.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. The bottle was full of it, and it is inconceivable that the + first two glasses were clear and the third heavily charged with it. There + are two possible explanations, and only two. One is that after the second + glass was filled the bottle was violently agitated, and so the third glass + received the bees-wing. That does not appear probable. No, no; I am sure + that I am right.” + </p> + <p> + “What, then, do you suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “That only two glasses were used, and that the dregs of both were poured + into a third glass, so as to give the false impression that three people + had been here. In that way all the bees-wing would be in the last glass, + would it not? Yes, I am convinced that this is so. But if I have hit upon + the true explanation of this one small phenomenon, then in an instant the + case rises from the commonplace to the exceedingly remarkable, for it can + only mean that Lady Brackenstall and her maid have deliberately lied to + us, that not one word of their story is to be believed, that they have + some very strong reason for covering the real criminal, and that we must + construct our case for ourselves without any help from them. That is the + mission which now lies before us, and here, Watson, is the Chislehurst + train.” + </p> + <p> + The household of the Abbey Grange were much surprised at our return, but + Sherlock Holmes, finding that Stanley Hopkins had gone off to report to + head-quarters, took possession of the dining-room, locked the door upon + the inside, and devoted himself for two hours to one of those minute and + laborious investigations which formed the solid basis on which his + brilliant edifices of deduction were reared. Seated in a corner like an + interested student who observes the demonstration of his professor, I + followed every step of that remarkable research. The window, the curtains, + the carpet, the chair, the rope—each in turn was minutely examined + and duly pondered. The body of the unfortunate baronet had been removed, + but all else remained as we had seen it in the morning. Then, to my + astonishment, Holmes climbed up on to the massive mantelpiece. Far above + his head hung the few inches of red cord which were still attached to the + wire. For a long time he gazed upward at it, and then in an attempt to get + nearer to it he rested his knee upon a wooden bracket on the wall. This + brought his hand within a few inches of the broken end of the rope, but it + was not this so much as the bracket itself which seemed to engage his + attention. Finally he sprang down with an ejaculation of satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “It's all right, Watson,” said he. “We have got our case—one of the + most remarkable in our collection. But, dear me, how slow-witted I have + been, and how nearly I have committed the blunder of my lifetime! Now, I + think that with a few missing links my chain is almost complete.” + </p> + <p> + “You have got your men?” + </p> + <p> + “Man, Watson, man. Only one, but a very formidable person. Strong as a + lion—witness the blow that bent that poker. Six foot three in + height, active as a squirrel, dexterous with his fingers; finally, + remarkably quick-witted, for this whole ingenious story is of his + concoction. Yes, Watson, we have come upon the handiwork of a very + remarkable individual. And yet in that bell-rope he has given us a clue + which should not have left us a doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “Where was the clue?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you were to pull down a bell-rope, Watson, where would you + expect it to break? Surely at the spot where it is attached to the wire. + Why should it break three inches from the top as this one has done?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it is frayed there?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. This end, which we can examine, is frayed. He was cunning enough + to do that with his knife. But the other end is not frayed. You could not + observe that from here, but if you were on the mantelpiece you would see + that it is cut clean off without any mark of fraying whatever. You can + reconstruct what occurred. The man needed the rope. He would not tear it + down for fear of giving the alarm by ringing the bell. What did he do? He + sprang up on the mantelpiece, could not quite reach it, put his knee on + the bracket—you will see the impression in the dust—and so got + his knife to bear upon the cord. I could not reach the place by at least + three inches, from which I infer that he is at least three inches a bigger + man than I. Look at that mark upon the seat of the oaken chair! What is + it?” + </p> + <p> + “Blood.” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly it is blood. This alone puts the lady's story out of court. + If she were seated on the chair when the crime was done, how comes that + mark? No, no; she was placed in the chair AFTER the death of her husband. + I'll wager that the black dress shows a corresponding mark to this. We + have not yet met our Waterloo, Watson, but this is our Marengo, for it + begins in defeat and ends in victory. I should like now to have a few + words with the nurse Theresa. We must be wary for awhile, if we are to get + the information which we want.” + </p> + <p> + She was an interesting person, this stern Australian nurse. Taciturn, + suspicious, ungracious, it took some time before Holmes's pleasant manner + and frank acceptance of all that she said thawed her into a corresponding + amiability. She did not attempt to conceal her hatred for her late + employer. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, it is true that he threw the decanter at me. I heard him call + my mistress a name, and I told him that he would not dare to speak so if + her brother had been there. Then it was that he threw it at me. He might + have thrown a dozen if he had but left my bonny bird alone. He was for + ever ill-treating her, and she too proud to complain. She will not even + tell me all that he has done to her. She never told me of those marks on + her arm that you saw this morning, but I know very well that they come + from a stab with a hat-pin. The sly fiend—Heaven forgive me that I + should speak of him so, now that he is dead, but a fiend he was if ever + one walked the earth. He was all honey when first we met him, only + eighteen months ago, and we both feel as if it were eighteen years. She + had only just arrived in London. Yes, it was her first voyage—she + had never been from home before. He won her with his title and his money + and his false London ways. If she made a mistake she has paid for it, if + ever a woman did. What month did we meet him? Well, I tell you it was just + after we arrived. We arrived in June, and it was July. They were married + in January of last year. Yes, she is down in the morning-room again, and I + have no doubt she will see you, but you must not ask too much of her, for + she has gone through all that flesh and blood will stand.” + </p> + <p> + Lady Brackenstall was reclining on the same couch, but looked brighter + than before. The maid had entered with us, and began once more to foment + the bruise upon her mistress's brow. + </p> + <p> + “I hope,” said the lady, “that you have not come to cross-examine me + again?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” Holmes answered, in his gentlest voice, “I will not cause you any + unnecessary trouble, Lady Brackenstall, and my whole desire is to make + things easy for you, for I am convinced that you are a much-tried woman. + If you will treat me as a friend and trust me you may find that I will + justify your trust.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you want me to do?” + </p> + <p> + “To tell me the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes!” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Lady Brackenstall, it is no use. You may have heard of any little + reputation which I possess. I will stake it all on the fact that your + story is an absolute fabrication.” + </p> + <p> + Mistress and maid were both staring at Holmes with pale faces and + frightened eyes. + </p> + <p> + “You are an impudent fellow!” cried Theresa. “Do you mean to say that my + mistress has told a lie?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes rose from his chair. + </p> + <p> + “Have you nothing to tell me?” + </p> + <p> + “I have told you everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Think once more, Lady Brackenstall. Would it not be better to be frank?” + </p> + <p> + For an instant there was hesitation in her beautiful face. Then some new + strong thought caused it to set like a mask. + </p> + <p> + “I have told you all I know.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes took his hat and shrugged his shoulders. “I am sorry,” he said, and + without another word we left the room and the house. There was a pond in + the park, and to this my friend led the way. It was frozen over, but a + single hole was left for the convenience of a solitary swan. Holmes gazed + at it and then passed on to the lodge gate. There he scribbled a short + note for Stanley Hopkins and left it with the lodge-keeper. + </p> + <p> + “It may be a hit or it may be a miss, but we are bound to do something for + friend Hopkins, just to justify this second visit,” said he. “I will not + quite take him into my confidence yet. I think our next scene of + operations must be the shipping office of the Adelaide-Southampton line, + which stands at the end of Pall Mall, if I remember right. There is a + second line of steamers which connect South Australia with England, but we + will draw the larger cover first.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes's card sent in to the manager ensured instant attention, and he was + not long in acquiring all the information which he needed. In June of '95 + only one of their line had reached a home port. It was the ROCK OF + GIBRALTAR, their largest and best boat. A reference to the passenger list + showed that Miss Fraser of Adelaide, with her maid, had made the voyage in + her. The boat was now on her way to Australia, somewhere to the south of + the Suez Canal. Her officers were the same as in '95, with one exception. + The first officer, Mr. Jack Croker, had been made a captain and was to + take charge of their new ship, the BASS ROCK, sailing in two days' time + from Southampton. He lived at Sydenham, but he was likely to be in that + morning for instructions, if we cared to wait for him. + </p> + <p> + No; Mr. Holmes had no desire to see him, but would be glad to know more + about his record and character. + </p> + <p> + His record was magnificent. There was not an officer in the fleet to touch + him. As to his character, he was reliable on duty, but a wild, desperate + fellow off the deck of his ship, hot-headed, excitable, but loyal, honest, + and kind-hearted. That was the pith of the information with which Holmes + left the office of the Adelaide-Southampton company. Thence he drove to + Scotland Yard, but instead of entering he sat in his cab with his brows + drawn down, lost in profound thought. Finally he drove round to the + Charing Cross telegraph office, sent off a message, and then, at last, we + made for Baker Street once more. + </p> + <p> + “No, I couldn't do it, Watson,” said he, as we re-entered our room. “Once + that warrant was made out nothing on earth would save him. Once or twice + in my career I feel that I have done more real harm by my discovery of the + criminal than ever he had done by his crime. I have learned caution now, + and I had rather play tricks with the law of England than with my own + conscience. Let us know a little more before we act.” + </p> + <p> + Before evening we had a visit from Inspector Stanley Hopkins. Things were + not going very well with him. + </p> + <p> + “I believe that you are a wizard, Mr. Holmes. I really do sometimes think + that you have powers that are not human. Now, how on earth could you know + that the stolen silver was at the bottom of that pond?” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know it.” + </p> + <p> + “But you told me to examine it.” + </p> + <p> + “You got it, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I got it.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very glad if I have helped you.” + </p> + <p> + “But you haven't helped me. You have made the affair far more difficult. + What sort of burglars are they who steal silver and then throw it into the + nearest pond?” + </p> + <p> + “It was certainly rather eccentric behaviour. I was merely going on the + idea that if the silver had been taken by persons who did not want it, who + merely took it for a blind as it were, then they would naturally be + anxious to get rid of it.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should such an idea cross your mind?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I thought it was possible. When they came out through the French + window there was the pond, with one tempting little hole in the ice, right + in front of their noses. Could there be a better hiding-place?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, a hiding-place—that is better!” cried Stanley Hopkins. “Yes, + yes, I see it all now! It was early, there were folk upon the roads, they + were afraid of being seen with the silver, so they sank it in the pond, + intending to return for it when the coast was clear. Excellent, Mr. Holmes—that + is better than your idea of a blind.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so; you have got an admirable theory. I have no doubt that my own + ideas were quite wild, but you must admit that they have ended in + discovering the silver.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, yes. It was all your doing. But I have had a bad set-back.” + </p> + <p> + “A set-back?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Holmes. The Randall gang were arrested in New York this + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me, Hopkins! That is certainly rather against your theory that they + committed a murder in Kent last night.” + </p> + <p> + “It is fatal, Mr. Holmes, absolutely fatal. Still, there are other gangs + of three besides the Randalls, or it may be some new gang of which the + police have never heard.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so; it is perfectly possible. What, are you off?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Holmes; there is no rest for me until I have got to the bottom + of the business. I suppose you have no hint to give me?” + </p> + <p> + “I have given you one.” + </p> + <p> + “Which?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I suggested a blind.” + </p> + <p> + “But why, Mr. Holmes, why?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, that's the question, of course. But I commend the idea to your mind. + You might possibly find that there was something in it. You won't stop for + dinner? Well, good-bye, and let us know how you get on.” + </p> + <p> + Dinner was over and the table cleared before Holmes alluded to the matter + again. He had lit his pipe and held his slippered feet to the cheerful + blaze of the fire. Suddenly he looked at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “I expect developments, Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “When?” + </p> + <p> + “Now—within a few minutes. I dare say you thought I acted rather + badly to Stanley Hopkins just now?” + </p> + <p> + “I trust your judgment.” + </p> + <p> + “A very sensible reply, Watson. You must look at it this way: what I know + is unofficial; what he knows is official. I have the right to private + judgment, but he has none. He must disclose all, or he is a traitor to his + service. In a doubtful case I would not put him in so painful a position, + and so I reserve my information until my own mind is clear upon the + matter.” + </p> + <p> + “But when will that be?” + </p> + <p> + “The time has come. You will now be present at the last scene of a + remarkable little drama.” + </p> + <p> + There was a sound upon the stairs, and our door was opened to admit as + fine a specimen of manhood as ever passed through it. He was a very tall + young man, golden-moustached, blue-eyed, with a skin which had been burned + by tropical suns, and a springy step which showed that the huge frame was + as active as it was strong. He closed the door behind him, and then he + stood with clenched hands and heaving breast, choking down some + overmastering emotion. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, Captain Croker. You got my telegram?” + </p> + <p> + Our visitor sank into an arm-chair and looked from one to the other of us + with questioning eyes. + </p> + <p> + “I got your telegram, and I came at the hour you said. I heard that you + had been down to the office. There was no getting away from you. Let's + hear the worst. What are you going to do with me? Arrest me? Speak out, + man! You can't sit there and play with me like a cat with a mouse.” + </p> + <p> + “Give him a cigar,” said Holmes. “Bite on that, Captain Croker, and don't + let your nerves run away with you. I should not sit here smoking with you + if I thought that you were a common criminal, you may be sure of that. Be + frank with me, and we may do some good. Play tricks with me, and I'll + crush you.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you wish me to do?” + </p> + <p> + “To give me a true account of all that happened at the Abbey Grange last + night—a TRUE account, mind you, with nothing added and nothing taken + off. I know so much already that if you go one inch off the straight I'll + blow this police whistle from my window and the affair goes out of my + hands for ever.” + </p> + <p> + The sailor thought for a little. Then he struck his leg with his great, + sun-burned hand. + </p> + <p> + “I'll chance it,” he cried. “I believe you are a man of your word, and a + white man, and I'll tell you the whole story. But one thing I will say + first. So far as I am concerned I regret nothing and I fear nothing, and I + would do it all again and be proud of the job. Curse the beast, if he had + as many lives as a cat he would owe them all to me! But it's the lady, + Mary—Mary Fraser—for never will I call her by that accursed + name. When I think of getting her into trouble, I who would give my life + just to bring one smile to her dear face, it's that that turns my soul + into water. And yet—and yet—what less could I do? I'll tell + you my story, gentlemen, and then I'll ask you as man to man what less + could I do. + </p> + <p> + “I must go back a bit. You seem to know everything, so I expect that you + know that I met her when she was a passenger and I was first officer of + the ROCK OF GIBRALTAR. From the first day I met her she was the only woman + to me. Every day of that voyage I loved her more, and many a time since + have I kneeled down in the darkness of the night watch and kissed the deck + of that ship because I knew her dear feet had trod it. She was never + engaged to me. She treated me as fairly as ever a woman treated a man. I + have no complaint to make. It was all love on my side, and all good + comradeship and friendship on hers. When we parted she was a free woman, + but I could never again be a free man. + </p> + <p> + “Next time I came back from sea I heard of her marriage. Well, why + shouldn't she marry whom she liked? Title and money—who could carry + them better than she? She was born for all that is beautiful and dainty. I + didn't grieve over her marriage. I was not such a selfish hound as that. I + just rejoiced that good luck had come her way, and that she had not thrown + herself away on a penniless sailor. That's how I loved Mary Fraser. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I never thought to see her again; but last voyage I was promoted, + and the new boat was not yet launched, so I had to wait for a couple of + months with my people at Sydenham. One day out in a country lane I met + Theresa Wright, her old maid. She told me about her, about him, about + everything. I tell you, gentlemen, it nearly drove me mad. This drunken + hound, that he should dare to raise his hand to her whose boots he was not + worthy to lick! I met Theresa again. Then I met Mary herself—and met + her again. Then she would meet me no more. But the other day I had a + notice that I was to start on my voyage within a week, and I determined + that I would see her once before I left. Theresa was always my friend, for + she loved Mary and hated this villain almost as much as I did. From her I + learned the ways of the house. Mary used to sit up reading in her own + little room downstairs. I crept round there last night and scratched at + the window. At first she would not open to me, but in her heart I know + that now she loves me, and she could not leave me in the frosty night. She + whispered to me to come round to the big front window, and I found it open + before me so as to let me into the dining-room. Again I heard from her own + lips things that made my blood boil, and again I cursed this brute who + mishandled the woman that I loved. Well, gentlemen, I was standing with + her just inside the window, in all innocence, as Heaven is my judge, when + he rushed like a madman into the room, called her the vilest name that a + man could use to a woman, and welted her across the face with the stick he + had in his hand. I had sprung for the poker, and it was a fair fight + between us. See here on my arm where his first blow fell. Then it was my + turn, and I went through him as if he had been a rotten pumpkin. Do you + think I was sorry? Not I! It was his life or mine, but far more than that + it was his life or hers, for how could I leave her in the power of this + madman? That was how I killed him. Was I wrong? Well, then, what would + either of you gentlemen have done if you had been in my position?” + </p> + <p> + “She had screamed when he struck her, and that brought old Theresa down + from the room above. There was a bottle of wine on the sideboard, and I + opened it and poured a little between Mary's lips, for she was half dead + with the shock. Then I took a drop myself. Theresa was as cool as ice, and + it was her plot as much as mine. We must make it appear that burglars had + done the thing. Theresa kept on repeating our story to her mistress, while + I swarmed up and cut the rope of the bell. Then I lashed her in her chair, + and frayed out the end of the rope to make it look natural, else they + would wonder how in the world a burglar could have got up there to cut it. + Then I gathered up a few plates and pots of silver, to carry out the idea + of a robbery, and there I left them with orders to give the alarm when I + had a quarter of an hour's start. I dropped the silver into the pond and + made off for Sydenham, feeling that for once in my life I had done a real + good night's work. And that's the truth and the whole truth, Mr. Holmes, + if it costs me my neck.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes smoked for some time in silence. Then he crossed the room and shook + our visitor by the hand. + </p> + <p> + “That's what I think,” said he. “I know that every word is true, for you + have hardly said a word which I did not know. No one but an acrobat or a + sailor could have got up to that bell-rope from the bracket, and no one + but a sailor could have made the knots with which the cord was fastened to + the chair. Only once had this lady been brought into contact with sailors, + and that was on her voyage, and it was someone of her own class of life, + since she was trying hard to shield him and so showing that she loved him. + You see how easy it was for me to lay my hands upon you when once I had + started upon the right trail.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought the police never could have seen through our dodge.” + </p> + <p> + “And the police haven't; nor will they, to the best of my belief. Now, + look here, Captain Croker, this is a very serious matter, though I am + willing to admit that you acted under the most extreme provocation to + which any man could be subjected. I am not sure that in defence of your + own life your action will not be pronounced legitimate. However, that is + for a British jury to decide. Meanwhile I have so much sympathy for you + that if you choose to disappear in the next twenty-four hours I will + promise you that no one will hinder you.” + </p> + <p> + “And then it will all come out?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly it will come out.” + </p> + <p> + The sailor flushed with anger. + </p> + <p> + “What sort of proposal is that to make a man? I know enough of law to + understand that Mary would be had as accomplice. Do you think I would + leave her alone to face the music while I slunk away? No, sir; let them do + their worst upon me, but for Heaven's sake, Mr. Holmes, find some way of + keeping my poor Mary out of the courts.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes for a second time held out his hand to the sailor. + </p> + <p> + “I was only testing you, and you ring true every time. Well, it is a great + responsibility that I take upon myself, but I have given Hopkins an + excellent hint, and if he can't avail himself of it I can do no more. See + here, Captain Croker, we'll do this in due form of law. You are the + prisoner. Watson, you are a British jury, and I never met a man who was + more eminently fitted to represent one. I am the judge. Now, gentleman of + the jury, you have heard the evidence. Do you find the prisoner guilty or + not guilty?” + </p> + <p> + “Not guilty, my lord,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Vox populi, vox Dei. You are acquitted, Captain Croker. So long as the + law does not find some other victim you are safe from me. Come back to + this lady in a year, and may her future and yours justify us in the + judgment which we have pronounced this night.” + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THE STRAND MAGAZINE + Vol. 28 DECEMBER, 1904 + THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. + By ARTHUR CONAN DOYLE. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0013" id="link2H_4_0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + XIII.—The Adventure of the Second Stain. + </h2> + <p> + I HAD intended “The Adventure of the Abbey Grange” to be the last of those + exploits of my friend, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, which I should ever + communicate to the public. This resolution of mine was not due to any lack + of material, since I have notes of many hundreds of cases to which I have + never alluded, nor was it caused by any waning interest on the part of my + readers in the singular personality and unique methods of this remarkable + man. The real reason lay in the reluctance which Mr. Holmes has shown to + the continued publication of his experiences. So long as he was in actual + professional practice the records of his successes were of some practical + value to him; but since he has definitely retired from London and betaken + himself to study and bee-farming on the Sussex Downs, notoriety has become + hateful to him, and he has peremptorily requested that his wishes in this + matter should be strictly observed. It was only upon my representing to + him that I had given a promise that “The Adventure of the Second Stain” + should be published when the times were ripe, and pointing out to him that + it is only appropriate that this long series of episodes should culminate + in the most important international case which he has ever been called + upon to handle, that I at last succeeded in obtaining his consent that a + carefully-guarded account of the incident should at last be laid before + the public. If in telling the story I seem to be somewhat vague in certain + details the public will readily understand that there is an excellent + reason for my reticence. + </p> + <p> + It was, then, in a year, and even in a decade, that shall be nameless, + that upon one Tuesday morning in autumn we found two visitors of European + fame within the walls of our humble room in Baker Street. The one, + austere, high-nosed, eagle-eyed, and dominant, was none other than the + illustrious Lord Bellinger, twice Premier of Britain. The other, dark, + clear-cut, and elegant, hardly yet of middle age, and endowed with every + beauty of body and of mind, was the Right Honourable Trelawney Hope, + Secretary for European Affairs, and the most rising statesman in the + country. They sat side by side upon our paper-littered settee, and it was + easy to see from their worn and anxious faces that it was business of the + most pressing importance which had brought them. The Premier's thin, + blue-veined hands were clasped tightly over the ivory head of his + umbrella, and his gaunt, ascetic face looked gloomily from Holmes to me. + The European Secretary pulled nervously at his moustache and fidgeted with + the seals of his watch-chain. + </p> + <p> + “When I discovered my loss, Mr. Holmes, which was at eight o'clock this + morning, I at once informed the Prime Minister. It was at his suggestion + that we have both come to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you informed the police?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” said the Prime Minister, with the quick, decisive manner for + which he was famous. “We have not done so, nor is it possible that we + should do so. To inform the police must, in the long run, mean to inform + the public. This is what we particularly desire to avoid.” + </p> + <p> + “And why, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Because the document in question is of such immense importance that its + publication might very easily—I might almost say probably—lead + to European complications of the utmost moment. It is not too much to say + that peace or war may hang upon the issue. Unless its recovery can be + attended with the utmost secrecy, then it may as well not be recovered at + all, for all that is aimed at by those who have taken it is that its + contents should be generally known.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand. Now, Mr. Trelawney Hope, I should be much obliged if you + would tell me exactly the circumstances under which this document + disappeared.” + </p> + <p> + “That can be done in a very few words, Mr. Holmes. The letter—for it + was a letter from a foreign potentate—was received six days ago. It + was of such importance that I have never left it in my safe, but I have + taken it across each evening to my house in Whitehall Terrace, and kept it + in my bedroom in a locked despatch-box. It was there last night. Of that I + am certain. I actually opened the box while I was dressing for dinner, and + saw the document inside. This morning it was gone. The despatch-box had + stood beside the glass upon my dressing-table all night. I am a light + sleeper, and so is my wife. We are both prepared to swear that no one + could have entered the room during the night. And yet I repeat that the + paper is gone.” + </p> + <p> + “What time did you dine?” + </p> + <p> + “Half-past seven.” + </p> + <p> + “How long was it before you went to bed?” + </p> + <p> + “My wife had gone to the theatre. I waited up for her. It was half-past + eleven before we went to our room.” + </p> + <p> + “Then for four hours the despatch-box had lain unguarded?” + </p> + <p> + “No one is ever permitted to enter that room save the housemaid in the + morning, and my valet, or my wife's maid, during the rest of the day. They + are both trusty servants who have been with us for some time. Besides, + neither of them could possibly have known that there was anything more + valuable than the ordinary departmental papers in my despatch-box.” + </p> + <p> + “Who did know of the existence of that letter?” + </p> + <p> + “No one in the house.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely your wife knew?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; I had said nothing to my wife until I missed the paper this + morning.” + </p> + <p> + The Premier nodded approvingly. + </p> + <p> + “I have long known, sir, how high is your sense of public duty,” said he. + “I am convinced that in the case of a secret of this importance it would + rise superior to the most intimate domestic ties.” + </p> + <p> + The European Secretary bowed. + </p> + <p> + “You do me no more than justice, sir. Until this morning I have never + breathed one word to my wife upon this matter.” + </p> + <p> + “Could she have guessed?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Mr. Holmes, she could not have guessed—nor could anyone have + guessed.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you lost any documents before?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is there in England who did know of the existence of this letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Each member of the Cabinet was informed of it yesterday; but the pledge + of secrecy which attends every Cabinet meeting was increased by the solemn + warning which was given by the Prime Minister. Good heavens, to think that + within a few hours I should myself have lost it!” His handsome face was + distorted with a spasm of despair, and his hands tore at his hair. For a + moment we caught a glimpse of the natural man, impulsive, ardent, keenly + sensitive. The next the aristocratic mask was replaced, and the gentle + voice had returned. “Besides the members of the Cabinet there are two, or + possibly three, departmental officials who know of the letter. No one else + in England, Mr. Holmes, I assure you.” + </p> + <p> + “But abroad?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe that no one abroad has seen it save the man who wrote it. I am + well convinced that his Ministers—that the usual official channels + have not been employed.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes considered for some little time. + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir, I must ask you more particularly what this document is, and why + its disappearance should have such momentous consequences?” + </p> + <p> + The two statesmen exchanged a quick glance and the Premier's shaggy + eyebrows gathered in a frown. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes, the envelope is a long, thin one of pale blue colour. There + is a seal of red wax stamped with a crouching lion. It is addressed in + large, bold handwriting to—” + </p> + <p> + “I fear, sir,” said Holmes, “that, interesting and indeed essential as + these details are, my inquiries must go more to the root of things. What + WAS the letter?” + </p> + <p> + “That is a State secret of the utmost importance, and I fear that I cannot + tell you, nor do I see that it is necessary. If by the aid of the powers + which you are said to possess you can find such an envelope as I describe + with its enclosure, you will have deserved well of your country, and + earned any reward which it lies in our power to bestow.” + </p> + <p> + Sherlock Holmes rose with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “You are two of the most busy men in the country,” said he, “and in my own + small way I have also a good many calls upon me. I regret exceedingly that + I cannot help you in this matter, and any continuation of this interview + would be a waste of time.” + </p> + <p> + The Premier sprang to his feet with that quick, fierce gleam of his + deep-set eyes before which a Cabinet has cowered. “I am not accustomed, + sir——” he began, but mastered his anger and resumed his seat. + For a minute or more we all sat in silence. Then the old statesman + shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “We must accept your terms, Mr. Holmes. No doubt you are right, and it is + unreasonable for us to expect you to act unless we give you our entire + confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you, sir,” said the younger statesman. + </p> + <p> + “Then I will tell you, relying entirely upon your honour and that of your + colleague, Dr. Watson. I may appeal to your patriotism also, for I could + not imagine a greater misfortune for the country than that this affair + should come out.” + </p> + <p> + “You may safely trust us.” + </p> + <p> + “The letter, then, is from a certain foreign potentate who has been + ruffled by some recent Colonial developments of this country. It has been + written hurriedly and upon his own responsibility entirely. Inquiries have + shown that his Ministers know nothing of the matter. At the same time it + is couched in so unfortunate a manner, and certain phrases in it are of so + provocative a character, that its publication would undoubtedly lead to a + most dangerous state of feeling in this country. There would be such a + ferment, sir, that I do not hesitate to say that within a week of the + publication of that letter this country would be involved in a great war.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes wrote a name upon a slip of paper and handed it to the Premier. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. It was he. And it is this letter—this letter which may + well mean the expenditure of a thousand millions and the lives of a + hundred thousand men—which has become lost in this unaccountable + fashion.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you informed the sender?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, a cipher telegram has been despatched.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he desires the publication of the letter.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, we have strong reason to believe that he already understands + that he has acted in an indiscreet and hot-headed manner. It would be a + greater blow to him and to his country than to us if this letter were to + come out.” + </p> + <p> + “If this is so, whose interest is it that the letter should come out? Why + should anyone desire to steal it or to publish it?” + </p> + <p> + “There, Mr. Holmes, you take me into regions of high international + politics. But if you consider the European situation you will have no + difficulty in perceiving the motive. The whole of Europe is an armed camp. + There is a double league which makes a fair balance of military power. + Great Britain holds the scales. If Britain were driven into war with one + confederacy, it would assure the supremacy of the other confederacy, + whether they joined in the war or not. Do you follow?” + </p> + <p> + “Very clearly. It is then the interest of the enemies of this potentate to + secure and publish this letter, so as to make a breach between his country + and ours?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And to whom would this document be sent if it fell into the hands of an + enemy?” + </p> + <p> + “To any of the great Chancelleries of Europe. It is probably speeding on + its way thither at the present instant as fast as steam can take it.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Trelawney Hope dropped his head on his chest and groaned aloud. The + Premier placed his hand kindly upon his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “It is your misfortune, my dear fellow. No one can blame you. There is no + precaution which you have neglected. Now, Mr. Holmes, you are in full + possession of the facts. What course do you recommend?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes shook his head mournfully. + </p> + <p> + “You think, sir, that unless this document is recovered there will be + war?” + </p> + <p> + “I think it is very probable.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, sir, prepare for war.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a hard saying, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “Consider the facts, sir. It is inconceivable that it was taken after + eleven-thirty at night, since I understand that Mr. Hope and his wife were + both in the room from that hour until the loss was found out. It was + taken, then, yesterday evening between seven-thirty and eleven-thirty, + probably near the earlier hour, since whoever took it evidently knew that + it was there and would naturally secure it as early as possible. Now, sir, + if a document of this importance were taken at that hour, where can it be + now? No one has any reason to retain it. It has been passed rapidly on to + those who need it. What chance have we now to overtake or even to trace + it? It is beyond our reach.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister rose from the settee. + </p> + <p> + “What you say is perfectly logical, Mr. Holmes. I feel that the matter is + indeed out of our hands.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us presume, for argument's sake, that the document was taken by the + maid or by the valet——” + </p> + <p> + “They are both old and tried servants.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand you to say that your room is on the second floor, that there + is no entrance from without, and that from within no one could go up + unobserved. It must, then, be somebody in the house who has taken it. To + whom would the thief take it? To one of several international spies and + secret agents, whose names are tolerably familiar to me. There are three + who may be said to be the heads of their profession. I will begin my + research by going round and finding if each of them is at his post. If one + is missing—especially if he has disappeared since last night—we + will have some indication as to where the document has gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should he be missing?” asked the European Secretary. “He would take + the letter to an Embassy in London, as likely as not.” + </p> + <p> + “I fancy not. These agents work independently, and their relations with + the Embassies are often strained.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister nodded his acquiescence. + </p> + <p> + “I believe you are right, Mr. Holmes. He would take so valuable a prize to + head-quarters with his own hands. I think that your course of action is an + excellent one. Meanwhile, Hope, we cannot neglect all our other duties on + account of this one misfortune. Should there be any fresh developments + during the day we shall communicate with you, and you will no doubt let us + know the results of your own inquiries.” + </p> + <p> + The two statesmen bowed and walked gravely from the room. + </p> + <p> + When our illustrious visitors had departed Holmes lit his pipe in silence, + and sat for some time lost in the deepest thought. I had opened the + morning paper and was immersed in a sensational crime which had occurred + in London the night before, when my friend gave an exclamation, sprang to + his feet, and laid his pipe down upon the mantelpiece. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said he, “there is no better way of approaching it. The situation + is desperate, but not hopeless. Even now, if we could be sure which of + them has taken it, it is just possible that it has not yet passed out of + his hands. After all, it is a question of money with these fellows, and I + have the British Treasury behind me. If it's on the market I'll buy it—if + it means another penny on the income-tax. It is conceivable that the + fellow might hold it back to see what bids come from this side before he + tries his luck on the other. There are only those three capable of playing + so bold a game; there are Oberstein, La Rothiere, and Eduardo Lucas. I + will see each of them.” + </p> + <p> + I glanced at my morning paper. + </p> + <p> + “Is that Eduardo Lucas of Godolphin Street?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “You will not see him.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “He was murdered in his house last night.” + </p> + <p> + My friend has so often astonished me in the course of our adventures that + it was with a sense of exultation that I realized how completely I had + astonished him. He stared in amazement, and then snatched the paper from + my hands. This was the paragraph which I had been engaged in reading when + he rose from his chair:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “MURDER IN WESTMINSTER. +</pre> + <p> + “A crime of mysterious character was committed last night at 16, Godolphin + Street, one of the old-fashioned and secluded rows of eighteenth-century + houses which lie between the river and the Abbey, almost in the shadow of + the great Tower of the Houses of Parliament. This small but select mansion + has been inhabited for some years by Mr. Eduardo Lucas, well known in + society circles both on account of his charming personality and because he + has the well-deserved reputation of being one of the best amateur tenors + in the country. Mr. Lucas is an unmarried man, thirty-four years of age, + and his establishment consists of Mrs. Pringle, an elderly housekeeper, + and of Mitton, his valet. The former retires early and sleeps at the top + of the house. The valet was out for the evening, visiting a friend at + Hammersmith. From ten o'clock onwards Mr. Lucas had the house to himself. + What occurred during that time has not yet transpired, but at a quarter to + twelve Police-constable Barrett, passing along Godolphin Street, observed + that the door of No. 16 was ajar. He knocked, but received no answer. + Perceiving a light in the front room he advanced into the passage and + again knocked, but without reply. He then pushed open the door and + entered. The room was in a state of wild disorder, the furniture being all + swept to one side, and one chair lying on its back in the centre. Beside + this chair, and still grasping one of its legs, lay the unfortunate tenant + of the house. He had been stabbed to the heart and must have died + instantly. The knife with which the crime had been committed was a curved + Indian dagger, plucked down from a trophy of Oriental arms which adorned + one of the walls. Robbery does not appear to have been the motive of the + crime, for there had been no attempt to remove the valuable contents of + the room. Mr. Eduardo Lucas was so well known and popular that his violent + and mysterious fate will arouse painful interest and intense sympathy in a + wide-spread circle of friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Watson, what do you make of this?” asked Holmes, after a long + pause. + </p> + <p> + “It is an amazing coincidence.” + </p> + <p> + “A coincidence! Here is one of the three men whom we had named as possible + actors in this drama, and he meets a violent death during the very hours + when we know that that drama was being enacted. The odds are enormous + against its being coincidence. No figures could express them. No, my dear + Watson, the two events are connected—MUST be connected. It is for us + to find the connection.” + </p> + <p> + “But now the official police must know all.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. They know all they see at Godolphin Street. They know—and + shall know—nothing of Whitehall Terrace. Only WE know of both + events, and can trace the relation between them. There is one obvious + point which would, in any case, have turned my suspicions against Lucas. + Godolphin Street, Westminster, is only a few minutes' walk from Whitehall + Terrace. The other secret agents whom I have named live in the extreme + West-end. It was easier, therefore, for Lucas than for the others to + establish a connection or receive a message from the European Secretary's + household—a small thing, and yet where events are compressed into a + few hours it may prove essential. Halloa! what have we here?” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hudson had appeared with a lady's card upon her salver. Holmes + glanced at it, raised his eyebrows, and handed it over to me. + </p> + <p> + “Ask Lady Hilda Trelawney Hope if she will be kind enough to step up,” + said he. + </p> + <p> + A moment later our modest apartment, already so distinguished that + morning, was further honoured by the entrance of the most lovely woman in + London. I had often heard of the beauty of the youngest daughter of the + Duke of Belminster, but no description of it, and no contemplation of + colourless photographs, had prepared me for the subtle, delicate charm and + the beautiful colouring of that exquisite head. And yet as we saw it that + autumn morning, it was not its beauty which would be the first thing to + impress the observer. The cheek was lovely, but it was paled with emotion; + the eyes were bright, but it was the brightness of fever; the sensitive + mouth was tight and drawn in an effort after self-command. Terror—not + beauty—was what sprang first to the eye as our fair visitor stood + framed for an instant in the open door. + </p> + <p> + “Has my husband been here, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam, he has been here.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes, I implore you not to tell him that I came here.” Holmes bowed + coldly, and motioned the lady to a chair. + </p> + <p> + “Your ladyship places me in a very delicate position. I beg that you will + sit down and tell me what you desire; but I fear that I cannot make any + unconditional promise.” + </p> + <p> + She swept across the room and seated herself with her back to the window. + It was a queenly presence—tall, graceful, and intensely womanly. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes,” she said, and her white-gloved hands clasped and unclasped + as she spoke—“I will speak frankly to you in the hope that it may + induce you to speak frankly in return. There is complete confidence + between my husband and me on all matters save one. That one is politics. + On this his lips are sealed. He tells me nothing. Now, I am aware that + there was a most deplorable occurrence in our house last night. I know + that a paper has disappeared. But because the matter is political my + husband refuses to take me into his complete confidence. Now it is + essential—essential, I say—that I should thoroughly understand + it. You are the only other person, save only these politicians, who knows + the true facts. I beg you, then, Mr. Holmes, to tell me exactly what has + happened and what it will lead to. Tell me all, Mr. Holmes. Let no regard + for your client's interests keep you silent, for I assure you that his + interests, if he would only see it, would be best served by taking me into + his complete confidence. What was this paper which was stolen?” + </p> + <p> + “Madam, what you ask me is really impossible.” + </p> + <p> + She groaned and sank her face in her hands. + </p> + <p> + “You must see that this is so, madam. If your husband thinks fit to keep + you in the dark over this matter, is it for me, who has only learned the + true facts under the pledge of professional secrecy, to tell what he has + withheld? It is not fair to ask it. It is him whom you must ask.” + </p> + <p> + “I have asked him. I come to you as a last resource. But without your + telling me anything definite, Mr. Holmes, you may do a great service if + you would enlighten me on one point.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “Is my husband's political career likely to suffer through this incident?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, madam, unless it is set right it may certainly have a very + unfortunate effect.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” She drew in her breath sharply as one whose doubts are resolved. + </p> + <p> + “One more question, Mr. Holmes. From an expression which my husband + dropped in the first shock of this disaster I understood that terrible + public consequences might arise from the loss of this document.” + </p> + <p> + “If he said so, I certainly cannot deny it.” + </p> + <p> + “Of what nature are they?” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, madam, there again you ask me more than I can possibly answer.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will take up no more of your time. I cannot blame you, Mr. Holmes, + for having refused to speak more freely, and you on your side will not, I + am sure, think the worse of me because I desire, even against his will, to + share my husband's anxieties. Once more I beg that you will say nothing of + my visit.” She looked back at us from the door, and I had a last + impression of that beautiful haunted face, the startled eyes, and the + drawn mouth. Then she was gone. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Watson, the fair sex is your department,” said Holmes, with a smile, + when the dwindling frou-frou of skirts had ended in the slam of the front + door. “What was the fair lady's game? What did she really want?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely her own statement is clear and her anxiety very natural.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! Think of her appearance, Watson—her manner, her suppressed + excitement, her restlessness, her tenacity in asking questions. Remember + that she comes of a caste who do not lightly show emotion.” + </p> + <p> + “She was certainly much moved.” + </p> + <p> + “Remember also the curious earnestness with which she assured us that it + was best for her husband that she should know all. What did she mean by + that? And you must have observed, Watson, how she manoeuvred to have the + light at her back. She did not wish us to read her expression.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; she chose the one chair in the room.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet the motives of women are so inscrutable. You remember the woman + at Margate whom I suspected for the same reason. No powder on her nose—that + proved to be the correct solution. How can you build on such a quicksand? + Their most trivial action may mean volumes, or their most extraordinary + conduct may depend upon a hairpin or a curling-tongs. Good morning, + Watson.” + </p> + <p> + “You are off?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I will wile away the morning at Godolphin Street with our friends of + the regular establishment. With Eduardo Lucas lies the solution of our + problem, though I must admit that I have not an inkling as to what form it + may take. It is a capital mistake to theorize in advance of the facts. Do + you stay on guard, my good Watson, and receive any fresh visitors. I'll + join you at lunch if I am able.” + </p> + <p> + All that day and the next and the next Holmes was in a mood which his + friends would call taciturn, and others morose. He ran out and ran in, + smoked incessantly, played snatches on his violin, sank into reveries, + devoured sandwiches at irregular hours, and hardly answered the casual + questions which I put to him. It was evident to me that things were not + going well with him or his quest. He would say nothing of the case, and it + was from the papers that I learned the particulars of the inquest, and the + arrest with the subsequent release of John Mitton, the valet of the + deceased. The coroner's jury brought in the obvious “Wilful Murder,” but + the parties remained as unknown as ever. No motive was suggested. The room + was full of articles of value, but none had been taken. The dead man's + papers had not been tampered with. They were carefully examined, and + showed that he was a keen student of international politics, an + indefatigable gossip, a remarkable linguist, and an untiring + letter-writer. He had been on intimate terms with the leading politicians + of several countries. But nothing sensational was discovered among the + documents which filled his drawers. As to his relations with women, they + appeared to have been promiscuous but superficial. He had many + acquaintances among them, but few friends, and no one whom he loved. His + habits were regular, his conduct inoffensive. His death was an absolute + mystery, and likely to remain so. + </p> + <p> + As to the arrest of John Mitton, the valet, it was a counsel of despair as + an alternative to absolute inaction. But no case could be sustained + against him. He had visited friends in Hammersmith that night. The ALIBI + was complete. It is true that he started home at an hour which should have + brought him to Westminster before the time when the crime was discovered, + but his own explanation that he had walked part of the way seemed probable + enough in view of the fineness of the night. He had actually arrived at + twelve o'clock, and appeared to be overwhelmed by the unexpected tragedy. + He had always been on good terms with his master. Several of the dead + man's possessions—notably a small case of razors—had been + found in the valet's boxes, but he explained that they had been presents + from the deceased, and the housekeeper was able to corroborate the story. + Mitton had been in Lucas's employment for three years. It was noticeable + that Lucas did not take Mitton on the Continent with him. Sometimes he + visited Paris for three months on end, but Mitton was left in charge of + the Godolphin Street house. As to the housekeeper, she had heard nothing + on the night of the crime. If her master had a visitor he had himself + admitted him. + </p> + <p> + So for three mornings the mystery remained, so far as I could follow it in + the papers. If Holmes knew more he kept his own counsel, but, as he told + me that Inspector Lestrade had taken him into his confidence in the case, + I knew that he was in close touch with every development. Upon the fourth + day there appeared a long telegram from Paris which seemed to solve the + whole question. + </p> + <p> + “A discovery has just been made by the Parisian police,” said the DAILY + TELEGRAPH, “which raises the veil which hung round the tragic fate of Mr. + Eduardo Lucas, who met his death by violence last Monday night at + Godolphin Street, Westminster. Our readers will remember that the deceased + gentleman was found stabbed in his room, and that some suspicion attached + to his valet, but that the case broke down on an ALIBI. Yesterday a lady, + who has been known as Mme. Henri Fournaye, occupying a small villa in the + Rue Austerlitz, was reported to the authorities by her servants as being + insane. An examination showed that she had indeed developed mania of a + dangerous and permanent form. On inquiry the police have discovered that + Mme. Henri Fournaye only returned from a journey to London on Tuesday + last, and there is evidence to connect her with the crime at Westminster. + A comparison of photographs has proved conclusively that M. Henri Fournaye + and Eduardo Lucas were really one and the same person, and that the + deceased had for some reason lived a double life in London and Paris. Mme. + Fournaye, who is of Creole origin, is of an extremely excitable nature, + and has suffered in the past from attacks of jealousy which have amounted + to frenzy. It is conjectured that it was in one of these that she + committed the terrible crime which has caused such a sensation in London. + Her movements upon the Monday night have not yet been traced, but it is + undoubted that a woman answering to her description attracted much + attention at Charing Cross Station on Tuesday morning by the wildness of + her appearance and the violence of her gestures. It is probable, + therefore, that the crime was either committed when insane, or that its + immediate effect was to drive the unhappy woman out of her mind. At + present she is unable to give any coherent account of the past, and the + doctors hold out no hopes of the re-establishment of her reason. There is + evidence that a woman, who might have been Mme. Fournaye, was seen for + some hours on Monday night watching the house in Godolphin Street.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of that, Holmes?” I had read the account aloud to him, + while he finished his breakfast. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Watson,” said he, as he rose from the table and paced up and down + the room, “you are most long-suffering, but if I have told you nothing in + the last three days it is because there is nothing to tell. Even now this + report from Paris does not help us much.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely it is final as regards the man's death.” + </p> + <p> + “The man's death is a mere incident—a trivial episode—in + comparison with our real task, which is to trace this document and save a + European catastrophe. Only one important thing has happened in the last + three days, and that is that nothing has happened. I get reports almost + hourly from the Government, and it is certain that nowhere in Europe is + there any sign of trouble. Now, if this letter were loose—no, it + CAN'T be loose—but if it isn't loose, where can it be? Who has it? + Why is it held back? That's the question that beats in my brain like a + hammer. Was it, indeed, a coincidence that Lucas should meet his death on + the night when the letter disappeared? Did the letter ever reach him? If + so, why is it not among his papers? Did this mad wife of his carry it off + with her? If so, is it in her house in Paris? How could I search for it + without the French police having their suspicions aroused? It is a case, + my dear Watson, where the law is as dangerous to us as the criminals are. + Every man's hand is against us, and yet the interests at stake are + colossal. Should I bring it to a successful conclusion it will certainly + represent the crowning glory of my career. Ah, here is my latest from the + front!” He glanced hurriedly at the note which had been handed in. + “Halloa! Lestrade seems to have observed something of interest. Put on + your hat, Watson, and we will stroll down together to Westminster.” + </p> + <p> + It was my first visit to the scene of the crime—a high, dingy, + narrow-chested house, prim, formal, and solid, like the century which gave + it birth. Lestrade's bulldog features gazed out at us from the front + window, and he greeted us warmly when a big constable had opened the door + and let us in. The room into which we were shown was that in which the + crime had been committed, but no trace of it now remained, save an ugly, + irregular stain upon the carpet. This carpet was a small square drugget in + the centre of the room, surrounded by a broad expanse of beautiful, + old-fashioned wood-flooring in square blocks highly polished. Over the + fireplace was a magnificent trophy of weapons, one of which had been used + on that tragic night. In the window was a sumptuous writing-desk, and + every detail of the apartment, the pictures, the rugs, and the hangings, + all pointed to a taste which was luxurious to the verge of effeminacy. + </p> + <p> + “Seen the Paris news?” asked Lestrade. + </p> + <p> + Holmes nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Our French friends seem to have touched the spot this time. No doubt it's + just as they say. She knocked at the door—surprise visit, I guess, + for he kept his life in water-tight compartments. He let her in—couldn't + keep her in the street. She told him how she had traced him, reproached + him, one thing led to another, and then with that dagger so handy the end + soon came. It wasn't all done in an instant, though, for these chairs were + all swept over yonder, and he had one in his hand as if he had tried to + hold her off with it. We've got it all clear as if we had seen it.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes raised his eyebrows. + </p> + <p> + “And yet you have sent for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, yes, that's another matter—a mere trifle, but the sort of thing + you take an interest in—queer, you know, and what you might call + freakish. It has nothing to do with the main fact—can't have, on the + face of it.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you know, after a crime of this sort we are very careful to keep + things in their position. Nothing has been moved. Officer in charge here + day and night. This morning, as the man was buried and the investigation + over—so far as this room is concerned—we thought we could tidy + up a bit. This carpet. You see, it is not fastened down; only just laid + there. We had occasion to raise it. We found——” + </p> + <p> + “Yes? You found——” + </p> + <p> + Holmes's face grew tense with anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'm sure you would never guess in a hundred years what we did find. + You see that stain on the carpet? Well, a great deal must have soaked + through, must it not?” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly it must.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you will be surprised to hear that there is no stain on the white + woodwork to correspond.” + </p> + <p> + “No stain! But there must——” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; so you would say. But the fact remains that there isn't.” + </p> + <p> + He took the corner of the carpet in his hand and, turning it over, he + showed that it was indeed as he said. + </p> + <p> + “But the underside is as stained as the upper. It must have left a mark.” + </p> + <p> + Lestrade chuckled with delight at having puzzled the famous expert. + </p> + <p> + “Now I'll show you the explanation. There IS a second stain, but it does + not correspond with the other. See for yourself.” As he spoke he turned + over another portion of the carpet, and there, sure enough, was a great + crimson spill upon the square white facing of the old-fashioned floor. + “What do you make of that, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, it is simple enough. The two stains did correspond, but the carpet + has been turned round. As it was square and unfastened it was easily + done.” + </p> + <p> + “The official police don't need you, Mr. Holmes, to tell them that the + carpet must have been turned round. That's clear enough, for the stains + lie above each other—if you lay it over this way. But what I want to + know is, who shifted the carpet, and why?” + </p> + <p> + I could see from Holmes's rigid face that he was vibrating with inward + excitement. + </p> + <p> + “Look here, Lestrade,” said he, “has that constable in the passage been in + charge of the place all the time?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he has.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, take my advice. Examine him carefully. Don't do it before us. We'll + wait here. You take him into the back room. You'll be more likely to get a + confession out of him alone. Ask him how he dared to admit people and + leave them alone in this room. Don't ask him if he has done it. Take it + for granted. Tell him you KNOW someone has been here. Press him. Tell him + that a full confession is his only chance of forgiveness. Do exactly what + I tell you!” + </p> + <p> + “By George, if he knows I'll have it out of him!” cried Lestrade. He + darted into the hall, and a few moments later his bullying voice sounded + from the back room. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Watson, now!” cried Holmes, with frenzied eagerness. All the + demoniacal force of the man masked behind that listless manner burst out + in a paroxysm of energy. He tore the drugget from the floor, and in an + instant was down on his hands and knees clawing at each of the squares of + wood beneath it. One turned sideways as he dug his nails into the edge of + it. It hinged back like the lid of a box. A small black cavity opened + beneath it. Holmes plunged his eager hand into it, and drew it out with a + bitter snarl of anger and disappointment. It was empty. + </p> + <p> + “Quick, Watson, quick! Get it back again!” The wooden lid was replaced, + and the drugget had only just been drawn straight when Lestrade's voice + was heard in the passage. He found Holmes leaning languidly against the + mantelpiece, resigned and patient, endeavouring to conceal his + irrepressible yawns. + </p> + <p> + “Sorry to keep you waiting, Mr. Holmes. I can see that you are bored to + death with the whole affair. Well, he has confessed, all right. Come in + here, MacPherson. Let these gentlemen hear of your most inexcusable + conduct.” + </p> + <p> + The big constable, very hot and penitent, sidled into the room. + </p> + <p> + “I meant no harm, sir, I'm sure. The young woman came to the door last + evening—mistook the house, she did. And then we got talking. It's + lonesome, when you're on duty here all day.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, what happened then?” + </p> + <p> + “She wanted to see where the crime was done—had read about it in the + papers, she said. She was a very respectable, well-spoken young woman, + sir, and I saw no harm in letting her have a peep. When she saw that mark + on the carpet, down she dropped on the floor, and lay as if she were dead. + I ran to the back and got some water, but I could not bring her to. Then I + went round the corner to the Ivy Plant for some brandy, and by the time I + had brought it back the young woman had recovered and was off—ashamed + of herself, I dare say, and dared not face me.” + </p> + <p> + “How about moving that drugget?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, it was a bit rumpled, certainly, when I came back. You see, + she fell on it, and it lies on a polished floor with nothing to keep it in + place. I straightened it out afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a lesson to you that you can't deceive me, Constable MacPherson,” + said Lestrade, with dignity. “No doubt you thought that your breach of + duty could never be discovered, and yet a mere glance at that drugget was + enough to convince me that someone had been admitted to the room. It's + lucky for you, my man, that nothing is missing, or you would find yourself + in Queer Street. I'm sorry to have called you down over such a petty + business, Mr. Holmes, but I thought the point of the second stain not + corresponding with the first would interest you.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, it was most interesting. Has this woman only been here once, + constable?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, only once.” + </p> + <p> + “Who was she?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't know the name, sir. Was answering an advertisement about + type-writing, and came to the wrong number—very pleasant, genteel + young woman, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Tall? Handsome?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; she was a well-grown young woman. I suppose you might say she + was handsome. Perhaps some would say she was very handsome. 'Oh, officer, + do let me have a peep!' says she. She had pretty, coaxing ways, as you + might say, and I thought there was no harm in letting her just put her + head through the door.” + </p> + <p> + “How was she dressed?” + </p> + <p> + “Quiet, sir—a long mantle down to her feet.” + </p> + <p> + “What time was it?” + </p> + <p> + “It was just growing dusk at the time. They were lighting the lamps as I + came back with the brandy.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said Holmes. “Come, Watson, I think that we have more + important work elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + As we left the house Lestrade remained in the front room, while the + repentant constable opened the door to let us out. Holmes turned on the + step and held up something in his hand. The constable stared intently. + </p> + <p> + “Good Lord, sir!” he cried, with amazement on his face. Holmes put his + finger on his lips, replaced his hand in his breast-pocket, and burst out + laughing as we turned down the street. “Excellent!” said he. “Come, friend + Watson, the curtain rings up for the last act. You will be relieved to + hear that there will be no war, that the Right Honourable Trelawney Hope + will suffer no set-back in his brilliant career, that the indiscreet + Sovereign will receive no punishment for his indiscretion, that the Prime + Minister will have no European complication to deal with, and that with a + little tact and management upon our part nobody will be a penny the worse + for what might have been a very ugly incident.” + </p> + <p> + My mind filled with admiration for this extraordinary man. + </p> + <p> + “You have solved it!” I cried. + </p> + <p> + “Hardly that, Watson. There are some points which are as dark as ever. But + we have so much that it will be our own fault if we cannot get the rest. + We will go straight to Whitehall Terrace and bring the matter to a head.” + </p> + <p> + When we arrived at the residence of the European Secretary it was for Lady + Hilda Trelawney Hope that Sherlock Holmes inquired. We were shown into the + morning-room. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes!” said the lady, and her face was pink with her indignation, + “this is surely most unfair and ungenerous upon your part. I desired, as I + have explained, to keep my visit to you a secret, lest my husband should + think that I was intruding into his affairs. And yet you compromise me by + coming here and so showing that there are business relations between us.” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately, madam, I had no possible alternative. I have been + commissioned to recover this immensely important paper. I must therefore + ask you, madam, to be kind enough to place it in my hands.” + </p> + <p> + The lady sprang to her feet, with the colour all dashed in an instant from + her beautiful face. Her eyes glazed—she tottered—I thought + that she would faint. Then with a grand effort she rallied from the shock, + and a supreme astonishment and indignation chased every other expression + from her features. + </p> + <p> + “You—you insult me, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, madam, it is useless. Give up the letter.” + </p> + <p> + She darted to the bell. + </p> + <p> + “The butler shall show you out.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not ring, Lady Hilda. If you do, then all my earnest efforts to avoid + a scandal will be frustrated. Give up the letter and all will be set + right. If you will work with me I can arrange everything. If you work + against me I must expose you.” + </p> + <p> + She stood grandly defiant, a queenly figure, her eyes fixed upon his as if + she would read his very soul. Her hand was on the bell, but she had + forborne to ring it. + </p> + <p> + “You are trying to frighten me. It is not a very manly thing, Mr. Holmes, + to come here and browbeat a woman. You say that you know something. What + is it that you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Pray sit down, madam. You will hurt yourself there if you fall. I will + not speak until you sit down. Thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “I give you five minutes, Mr. Holmes.” + </p> + <p> + “One is enough, Lady Hilda. I know of your visit to Eduardo Lucas, of your + giving him this document, of your ingenious return to the room last night, + and of the manner in which you took the letter from the hiding-place under + the carpet.” + </p> + <p> + She stared at him with an ashen face and gulped twice before she could + speak. + </p> + <p> + “You are mad, Mr. Holmes—you are mad!” she cried, at last. + </p> + <p> + He drew a small piece of cardboard from his pocket. It was the face of a + woman cut out of a portrait. + </p> + <p> + “I have carried this because I thought it might be useful,” said he. “The + policeman has recognised it.” + </p> + <p> + She gave a gasp and her head dropped back in the chair. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Lady Hilda. You have the letter. The matter may still be adjusted. + I have no desire to bring trouble to you. My duty ends when I have + returned the lost letter to your husband. Take my advice and be frank with + me; it is your only chance.” + </p> + <p> + Her courage was admirable. Even now she would not own defeat. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you again, Mr. Holmes, that you are under some absurd illusion.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes rose from his chair. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry for you, Lady Hilda. I have done my best for you; I can see + that it is all in vain.” + </p> + <p> + He rang the bell. The butler entered. + </p> + <p> + “Is Mr. Trelawney Hope at home?” + </p> + <p> + “He will be home, sir, at a quarter to one.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes glanced at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “Still a quarter of an hour,” said he. “Very good, I shall wait.” + </p> + <p> + The butler had hardly closed the door behind him when Lady Hilda was down + on her knees at Holmes's feet, her hands out-stretched, her beautiful face + upturned and wet with her tears. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, spare me, Mr. Holmes! Spare me!” she pleaded, in a frenzy of + supplication. “For Heaven's sake, don't tell him! I love him so! I would + not bring one shadow on his life, and this I know would break his noble + heart.” + </p> + <p> + Holmes raised the lady. “I am thankful, madam, that you have come to your + senses even at this last moment! There is not an instant to lose. Where is + the letter?” + </p> + <p> + She darted across to a writing-desk, unlocked it, and drew out a long blue + envelope. + </p> + <p> + “Here it is, Mr. Holmes. Would to Heaven I had never seen it!” + </p> + <p> + “How can we return it?” Holmes muttered. “Quick, quick, we must think of + some way! Where is the despatch-box?” + </p> + <p> + “Still in his bedroom.” + </p> + <p> + “What a stroke of luck! Quick, madam, bring it here!” + </p> + <p> + A moment later she had appeared with a red flat box in her hand. + </p> + <p> + “How did you open it before? You have a duplicate key? Yes, of course you + have. Open it!” + </p> + <p> + From out of her bosom Lady Hilda had drawn a small key. The box flew open. + It was stuffed with papers. Holmes thrust the blue envelope deep down into + the heart of them, between the leaves of some other document. The box was + shut, locked, and returned to the bedroom. + </p> + <p> + “Now we are ready for him,” said Holmes; “we have still ten minutes. I am + going far to screen you, Lady Hilda. In return you will spend the time in + telling me frankly the real meaning of this extraordinary affair.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes, I will tell you everything,” cried the lady. “Oh, Mr. Holmes, + I would cut off my right hand before I gave him a moment of sorrow! There + is no woman in all London who loves her husband as I do, and yet if he + knew how I have acted—how I have been compelled to act—he + would never forgive me. For his own honour stands so high that he could + not forget or pardon a lapse in another. Help me, Mr. Holmes! My + happiness, his happiness, our very lives are at stake!” + </p> + <p> + “Quick, madam, the time grows short!” + </p> + <p> + “It was a letter of mine, Mr. Holmes, an indiscreet letter written before + my marriage—a foolish letter, a letter of an impulsive, loving girl. + I meant no harm, and yet he would have thought it criminal. Had he read + that letter his confidence would have been for ever destroyed. It is years + since I wrote it. I had thought that the whole matter was forgotten. Then + at last I heard from this man, Lucas, that it had passed into his hands, + and that he would lay it before my husband. I implored his mercy. He said + that he would return my letter if I would bring him a certain document + which he described in my husband's despatch-box. He had some spy in the + office who had told him of its existence. He assured me that no harm could + come to my husband. Put yourself in my position, Mr. Holmes! What was I to + do?” + </p> + <p> + “Take your husband into your confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “I could not, Mr. Holmes, I could not! On the one side seemed certain + ruin; on the other, terrible as it seemed to take my husband's paper, + still in a matter of politics I could not understand the consequences, + while in a matter of love and trust they were only too clear to me. I did + it, Mr. Holmes! I took an impression of his key; this man Lucas furnished + a duplicate. I opened his despatch-box, took the paper, and conveyed it to + Godolphin Street.” + </p> + <p> + “What happened there, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “I tapped at the door as agreed. Lucas opened it. I followed him into his + room, leaving the hall door ajar behind me, for I feared to be alone with + the man. I remember that there was a woman outside as I entered. Our + business was soon done. He had my letter on his desk; I handed him the + document. He gave me the letter. At this instant there was a sound at the + door. There were steps in the passage. Lucas quickly turned back the + drugget, thrust the document into some hiding-place there, and covered it + over. + </p> + <p> + “What happened after that is like some fearful dream. I have a vision of a + dark, frantic face, of a woman's voice, which screamed in French, 'My + waiting is not in vain. At last, at last I have found you with her!' There + was a savage struggle. I saw him with a chair in his hand, a knife gleamed + in hers. I rushed from the horrible scene, ran from the house, and only + next morning in the paper did I learn the dreadful result. That night I + was happy, for I had my letter, and I had not seen yet what the future + would bring. + </p> + <p> + “It was the next morning that I realized that I had only exchanged one + trouble for another. My husband's anguish at the loss of his paper went to + my heart. I could hardly prevent myself from there and then kneeling down + at his feet and telling him what I had done. But that again would mean a + confession of the past. I came to you that morning in order to understand + the full enormity of my offence. From the instant that I grasped it my + whole mind was turned to the one thought of getting back my husband's + paper. It must still be where Lucas had placed it, for it was concealed + before this dreadful woman entered the room. If it had not been for her + coming, I should not have known where his hiding-place was. How was I to + get into the room? For two days I watched the place, but the door was + never left open. Last night I made a last attempt. What I did and how I + succeeded, you have already learned. I brought the paper back with me, and + thought of destroying it since I could see no way of returning it, without + confessing my guilt to my husband. Heavens, I hear his step upon the + stair!” + </p> + <p> + The European Secretary burst excitedly into the room. + </p> + <p> + “Any news, Mr. Holmes, any news?” he cried. + </p> + <p> + “I have some hopes.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, thank heaven!” His face became radiant. “The Prime Minister is + lunching with me. May he share your hopes? He has nerves of steel, and yet + I know that he has hardly slept since this terrible event. Jacobs, will + you ask the Prime Minister to come up? As to you, dear, I fear that this + is a matter of politics. We will join you in a few minutes in the + dining-room.” + </p> + <p> + The Prime Minister's manner was subdued, but I could see by the gleam of + his eyes and the twitchings of his bony hands that he shared the + excitement of his young colleague. + </p> + <p> + “I understand that you have something to report, Mr. Holmes?” + </p> + <p> + “Purely negative as yet,” my friend answered. “I have inquired at every + point where it might be, and I am sure that there is no danger to be + apprehended.” + </p> + <p> + “But that is not enough, Mr. Holmes. We cannot live for ever on such a + volcano. We must have something definite.” + </p> + <p> + “I am in hopes of getting it. That is why I am here. The more I think of + the matter the more convinced I am that the letter has never left this + house.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes!” + </p> + <p> + “If it had it would certainly have been public by now.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should anyone take it in order to keep it in his house?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not convinced that anyone did take it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then how could it leave the despatch-box?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not convinced that it ever did leave the despatch-box.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Holmes, this joking is very ill-timed. You have my assurance that it + left the box.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you examined the box since Tuesday morning?” + </p> + <p> + “No; it was not necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “You may conceivably have overlooked it.” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible, I say.” + </p> + <p> + “But I am not convinced of it; I have known such things to happen. I + presume there are other papers there. Well, it may have got mixed with + them.” + </p> + <p> + “It was on the top.” + </p> + <p> + “Someone may have shaken the box and displaced it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no; I had everything out.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely it is easily decided, Hope,” said the Premier. “Let us have the + despatch-box brought in.” + </p> + <p> + The Secretary rang the bell. + </p> + <p> + “Jacobs, bring down my despatch-box. This is a farcical waste of time, but + still, if nothing else will satisfy you, it shall be done. Thank you, + Jacobs; put it here. I have always had the key on my watch-chain. Here are + the papers, you see. Letter from Lord Merrow, report from Sir Charles + Hardy, memorandum from Belgrade, note on the Russo-German grain taxes, + letter from Madrid, note from Lord Flowers—good heavens! what is + this? Lord Bellinger! Lord Bellinger!” + </p> + <p> + The Premier snatched the blue envelope from his hand. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is it—and the letter is intact. Hope, I congratulate you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you! Thank you! What a weight from my heart. But this is + inconceivable—impossible. Mr. Holmes, you are a wizard, a sorcerer! + How did you know it was there?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I knew it was nowhere else.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot believe my eyes!” He ran wildly to the door. “Where is my wife? + I must tell her that all is well. Hilda! Hilda!” we heard his voice on the + stairs. + </p> + <p> + The Premier looked at Holmes with twinkling eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Come, sir,” said he. “There is more in this than meets the eye. How came + the letter back in the box?” + </p> + <p> + Holmes turned away smiling from the keen scrutiny of those wonderful eyes. + </p> + <p> + “We also have our diplomatic secrets,” said he, and picking up his hat he + turned to the door. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Return of Sherlock Holmes, by +Arthur Conan Doyle + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE RETURN OF SHERLOCK HOLMES *** + +***** This file should be named 221-h.htm or 221-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/2/2/221/ + +Produced by Charles Keller, Joanne Brown, Frank Sadowski, Roger Squires, +and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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