circulate/holmes.txt
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The Project Gutenberg EBook of A Study In Scarlet, by Arthur Conan Doyle
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This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
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almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
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re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
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with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
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Title: A Study In Scarlet
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Author: Arthur Conan Doyle
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Posting Date: July 12, 2008 [EBook #244]
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Release Date: April, 1995
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Language: English
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Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
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*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK A STUDY IN SCARLET ***
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Produced by Roger Squires
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A STUDY IN SCARLET.
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By A. Conan Doyle
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[1]
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     Original Transcriber's Note: This etext is prepared directly
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     from an 1887 edition, and care has been taken to duplicate the
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     original exactly, including typographical and punctuation
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     vagaries.
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     Additions to the text include adding the underscore character to
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     indicate italics, and textual end-notes in square braces.
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     Project Gutenberg Editor's Note: In reproofing and moving old PG
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     files such as this to the present PG directory system it is the
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     policy to reformat the text to conform to present PG Standards.
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     In this case however, in consideration of the note above of the
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     original transcriber describing his care to try to duplicate the
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     original 1887 edtion as to typography and punctuation vagaries,
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     no changes have been made in this ascii text file. However, in
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     the Latin-1 file and this html file, present standards are
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     followed and the several French and Spanish words have been
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     given their proper accents.
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A STUDY IN SCARLET.
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PART I.
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(_Being a reprint from the reminiscences of_ JOHN H. WATSON, M.D., _late
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of the Army Medical Department._) [2]
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CHAPTER I. MR. SHERLOCK HOLMES.
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IN the year 1878 I took my degree of Doctor of Medicine of the
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University of London, and proceeded to Netley to go through the course
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prescribed for surgeons in the army. Having completed my studies there,
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I was duly attached to the Fifth Northumberland Fusiliers as Assistant
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Surgeon. The regiment was stationed in India at the time, and before
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I could join it, the second Afghan war had broken out. On landing at
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Bombay, I learned that my corps had advanced through the passes, and
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was already deep in the enemy's country. I followed, however, with many
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other officers who were in the same situation as myself, and succeeded
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in reaching Candahar in safety, where I found my regiment, and at once
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entered upon my new duties.
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The campaign brought honours and promotion to many, but for me it had
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nothing but misfortune and disaster. I was removed from my brigade and
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attached to the Berkshires, with whom I served at the fatal battle of
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Maiwand. There I was struck on the shoulder by a Jezail bullet, which
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shattered the bone and grazed the subclavian artery. I should have
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fallen into the hands of the murderous Ghazis had it not been for the
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devotion and courage shown by Murray, my orderly, who threw me across a
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pack-horse, and succeeded in bringing me safely to the British lines.
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Worn with pain, and weak from the prolonged hardships which I had
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undergone, I was removed, with a great train of wounded sufferers, to
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the base hospital at Peshawar. Here I rallied, and had already improved
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so far as to be able to walk about the wards, and even to bask a little
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upon the verandah, when I was struck down by enteric fever, that curse
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of our Indian possessions. For months my life was despaired of, and
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when at last I came to myself and became convalescent, I was so weak and
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emaciated that a medical board determined that not a day should be lost
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in sending me back to England. I was dispatched, accordingly, in the
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troopship "Orontes," and landed a month later on Portsmouth jetty, with
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my health irretrievably ruined, but with permission from a paternal
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government to spend the next nine months in attempting to improve it.
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I had neither kith nor kin in England, and was therefore as free as
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air--or as free as an income of eleven shillings and sixpence a day will
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permit a man to be. Under such circumstances, I naturally gravitated to
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London, that great cesspool into which all the loungers and idlers of
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the Empire are irresistibly drained. There I stayed for some time at
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a private hotel in the Strand, leading a comfortless, meaningless
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existence, and spending such money as I had, considerably more freely
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than I ought. So alarming did the state of my finances become, that
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I soon realized that I must either leave the metropolis and rusticate
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somewhere in the country, or that I must make a complete alteration in
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my style of living. Choosing the latter alternative, I began by making
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up my mind to leave the hotel, and to take up my quarters in some less
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pretentious and less expensive domicile.
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On the very day that I had come to this conclusion, I was standing at
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the Criterion Bar, when some one tapped me on the shoulder, and turning
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round I recognized young Stamford, who had been a dresser under me at
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Barts. The sight of a friendly face in the great wilderness of London is
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a pleasant thing indeed to a lonely man. In old days Stamford had never
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been a particular crony of mine, but now I hailed him with enthusiasm,
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and he, in his turn, appeared to be delighted to see me. In the
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exuberance of my joy, I asked him to lunch with me at the Holborn, and
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we started off together in a hansom.
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"Whatever have you been doing with yourself, Watson?" he asked in
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undisguised wonder, as we rattled through the crowded London streets.
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"You are as thin as a lath and as brown as a nut."
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I gave him a short sketch of my adventures, and had hardly concluded it
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by the time that we reached our destination.
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"Poor devil!" he said, commiseratingly, after he had listened to my
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misfortunes. "What are you up to now?"
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"Looking for lodgings." [3] I answered. "Trying to solve the problem
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as to whether it is possible to get comfortable rooms at a reasonable
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price."
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"That's a strange thing," remarked my companion; "you are the second man
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to-day that has used that expression to me."
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"And who was the first?" I asked.
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"A fellow who is working at the chemical laboratory up at the hospital.
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He was bemoaning himself this morning because he could not get someone
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to go halves with him in some nice rooms which he had found, and which
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were too much for his purse."
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"By Jove!" I cried, "if he really wants someone to share the rooms and
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the expense, I am the very man for him. I should prefer having a partner
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to being alone."
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Young Stamford looked rather strangely at me over his wine-glass. "You
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don't know Sherlock Holmes yet," he said; "perhaps you would not care
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for him as a constant companion."
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"Why, what is there against him?"
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"Oh, I didn't say there was anything against him. He is a little queer
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in his ideas--an enthusiast in some branches of science. As far as I
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know he is a decent fellow enough."
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"A medical student, I suppose?" said I.
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"No--I have no idea what he intends to go in for. I believe he is well
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up in anatomy, and he is a first-class chemist; but, as far as I know,
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he has never taken out any systematic medical classes. His studies are
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very desultory and eccentric, but he has amassed a lot of out-of-the way
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knowledge which would astonish his professors."
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"Did you never ask him what he was going in for?" I asked.
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"No; he is not a man that it is easy to draw out, though he can be
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communicative enough when the fancy seizes him."
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"I should like to meet him," I said. "If I am to lodge with anyone, I
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should prefer a man of studious and quiet habits. I am not strong
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enough yet to stand much noise or excitement. I had enough of both in
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Afghanistan to last me for the remainder of my natural existence. How
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could I meet this friend of yours?"
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"He is sure to be at the laboratory," returned my companion. "He either
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avoids the place for weeks, or else he works there from morning to
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night. If you like, we shall drive round together after luncheon."
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"Certainly," I answered, and the conversation drifted away into other
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channels.
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As we made our way to the hospital after leaving the Holborn, Stamford
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gave me a few more particulars about the gentleman whom I proposed to
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take as a fellow-lodger.
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"You mustn't blame me if you don't get on with him," he said; "I know
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nothing more of him than I have learned from meeting him occasionally in
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the laboratory. You proposed this arrangement, so you must not hold me
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responsible."
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"If we don't get on it will be easy to part company," I answered. "It
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seems to me, Stamford," I added, looking hard at my companion, "that you
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have some reason for washing your hands of the matter. Is this fellow's
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temper so formidable, or what is it? Don't be mealy-mouthed about it."
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"It is not easy to express the inexpressible," he answered with a laugh.
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"Holmes is a little too scientific for my tastes--it approaches to
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cold-bloodedness. I could imagine his giving a friend a little pinch of
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the latest vegetable alkaloid, not out of malevolence, you understand,
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but simply out of a spirit of inquiry in order to have an accurate idea
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of the effects. To do him justice, I think that he would take it himself
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with the same readiness. He appears to have a passion for definite and
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exact knowledge."
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"Very right too."
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"Yes, but it may be pushed to excess. When it comes to beating the
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subjects in the dissecting-rooms with a stick, it is certainly taking
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rather a bizarre shape."
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"Beating the subjects!"
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"Yes, to verify how far bruises may be produced after death. I saw him
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at it with my own eyes."
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"And yet you say he is not a medical student?"
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"No. Heaven knows what the objects of his studies are. But here we
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are, and you must form your own impressions about him." As he spoke, we
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turned down a narrow lane and passed through a small side-door, which
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opened into a wing of the great hospital. It was familiar ground to me,
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and I needed no guiding as we ascended the bleak stone staircase and
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made our way down the long corridor with its vista of whitewashed
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wall and dun-coloured doors. Near the further end a low arched passage
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branched away from it and led to the chemical laboratory.
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This was a lofty chamber, lined and littered with countless bottles.
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Broad, low tables were scattered about, which bristled with retorts,
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test-tubes, and little Bunsen lamps, with their blue flickering flames.
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There was only one student in the room, who was bending over a distant
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table absorbed in his work. At the sound of our steps he glanced round
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and sprang to his feet with a cry of pleasure. "I've found it! I've
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found it," he shouted to my companion, running towards us with a
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test-tube in his hand. "I have found a re-agent which is precipitated
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by hoemoglobin, [4] and by nothing else." Had he discovered a gold mine,
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greater delight could not have shone upon his features.
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"Dr. Watson, Mr. Sherlock Holmes," said Stamford, introducing us.
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"How are you?" he said cordially, gripping my hand with a strength
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for which I should hardly have given him credit. "You have been in
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Afghanistan, I perceive."
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"How on earth did you know that?" I asked in astonishment.
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"Never mind," said he, chuckling to himself. "The question now is about
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hoemoglobin. No doubt you see the significance of this discovery of
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mine?"
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"It is interesting, chemically, no doubt," I answered, "but
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practically----"
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"Why, man, it is the most practical medico-legal discovery for years.
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Don't you see that it gives us an infallible test for blood stains. Come
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over here now!" He seized me by the coat-sleeve in his eagerness, and
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drew me over to the table at which he had been working. "Let us have
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some fresh blood," he said, digging a long bodkin into his finger, and
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drawing off the resulting drop of blood in a chemical pipette. "Now, I
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add this small quantity of blood to a litre of water. You perceive that
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the resulting mixture has the appearance of pure water. The proportion
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of blood cannot be more than one in a million. I have no doubt, however,
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that we shall be able to obtain the characteristic reaction." As he
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spoke, he threw into the vessel a few white crystals, and then added
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some drops of a transparent fluid. In an instant the contents assumed a
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dull mahogany colour, and a brownish dust was precipitated to the bottom
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of the glass jar.
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"Ha! ha!" he cried, clapping his hands, and looking as delighted as a
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child with a new toy. "What do you think of that?"
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"It seems to be a very delicate test," I remarked.
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"Beautiful! beautiful! The old Guiacum test was very clumsy and
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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uncertain. So is the microscopic examination for blood corpuscles. The
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latter is valueless if the stains are a few hours old. Now, this appears
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to act as well whether the blood is old or new. Had this test been
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invented, there are hundreds of men now walking the earth who would long
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ago have paid the penalty of their crimes."
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"Indeed!" I murmured.
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"Criminal cases are continually hinging upon that one point. A man is
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suspected of a crime months perhaps after it has been committed. His
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linen or clothes are examined, and brownish stains discovered upon them.
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Are they blood stains, or mud stains, or rust stains, or fruit stains,
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or what are they? That is a question which has puzzled many an expert,
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and why? Because there was no reliable test. Now we have the Sherlock
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Holmes' test, and there will no longer be any difficulty."
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His eyes fairly glittered as he spoke, and he put his hand over his
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heart and bowed as if to some applauding crowd conjured up by his
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imagination.
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"You are to be congratulated," I remarked, considerably surprised at his
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enthusiasm.
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"There was the case of Von Bischoff at Frankfort last year. He would
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certainly have been hung had this test been in existence. Then there was
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Mason of Bradford, and the notorious Muller, and Lefevre of Montpellier,
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and Samson of new Orleans. I could name a score of cases in which it
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would have been decisive."
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"You seem to be a walking calendar of crime," said Stamford with a
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laugh. "You might start a paper on those lines. Call it the 'Police News
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of the Past.'"
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"Very interesting reading it might be made, too," remarked Sherlock
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Holmes, sticking a small piece of plaster over the prick on his finger.
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"I have to be careful," he continued, turning to me with a smile, "for I
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dabble with poisons a good deal." He held out his hand as he spoke, and
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I noticed that it was all mottled over with similar pieces of plaster,
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and discoloured with strong acids.
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"We came here on business," said Stamford, sitting down on a high
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three-legged stool, and pushing another one in my direction with
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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his foot. "My friend here wants to take diggings, and as you were
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complaining that you could get no one to go halves with you, I thought
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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that I had better bring you together."
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Sherlock Holmes seemed delighted at the idea of sharing his rooms with
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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me. "I have my eye on a suite in Baker Street," he said, "which would
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suit us down to the ground. You don't mind the smell of strong tobacco,
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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I hope?"
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"I always smoke 'ship's' myself," I answered.
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"That's good enough. I generally have chemicals about, and occasionally
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do experiments. Would that annoy you?"
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"By no means."
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"Let me see--what are my other shortcomings. I get in the dumps at
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times, and don't open my mouth for days on end. You must not think I am
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sulky when I do that. Just let me alone, and I'll soon be right. What
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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have you to confess now? It's just as well for two fellows to know the
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worst of one another before they begin to live together."
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I laughed at this cross-examination. "I keep a bull pup," I said, "and
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I object to rows because my nerves are shaken, and I get up at all sorts
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of ungodly hours, and I am extremely lazy. I have another set of vices
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when I'm well, but those are the principal ones at present."
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"Do you include violin-playing in your category of rows?" he asked,
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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anxiously.
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"It depends on the player," I answered. "A well-played violin is a treat
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for the gods--a badly-played one----"
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"Oh, that's all right," he cried, with a merry laugh. "I think we may
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consider the thing as settled--that is, if the rooms are agreeable to
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you."
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"When shall we see them?"
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"Call for me here at noon to-morrow, and we'll go together and settle
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everything," he answered.
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"All right--noon exactly," said I, shaking his hand.
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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We left him working among his chemicals, and we walked together towards
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my hotel.
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"By the way," I asked suddenly, stopping and turning upon Stamford, "how
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the deuce did he know that I had come from Afghanistan?"
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   383
My companion smiled an enigmatical smile. "That's just his little
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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peculiarity," he said. "A good many people have wanted to know how he
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finds things out."
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"Oh! a mystery is it?" I cried, rubbing my hands. "This is very piquant.
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
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   388
I am much obliged to you for bringing us together. 'The proper study of
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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   389
mankind is man,' you know."
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parents:
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"You must study him, then," Stamford said, as he bade me good-bye.
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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   392
"You'll find him a knotty problem, though. I'll wager he learns more
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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about you than you about him. Good-bye."
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"Good-bye," I answered, and strolled on to my hotel, considerably
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
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interested in my new acquaintance.
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parents:
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parents:
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parents:
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   399
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
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   401
CHAPTER II. THE SCIENCE OF DEDUCTION.
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diff changeset
   403
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   404
WE met next day as he had arranged, and inspected the rooms at No. 221B,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   405
[5] Baker Street, of which he had spoken at our meeting. They
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   406
consisted of a couple of comfortable bed-rooms and a single large
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   407
airy sitting-room, cheerfully furnished, and illuminated by two broad
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   408
windows. So desirable in every way were the apartments, and so moderate
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   409
did the terms seem when divided between us, that the bargain was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   410
concluded upon the spot, and we at once entered into possession.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   411
That very evening I moved my things round from the hotel, and on the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   412
following morning Sherlock Holmes followed me with several boxes and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   413
portmanteaus. For a day or two we were busily employed in unpacking and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   414
laying out our property to the best advantage. That done, we
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   415
gradually began to settle down and to accommodate ourselves to our new
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   416
surroundings.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   417
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   418
Holmes was certainly not a difficult man to live with. He was quiet
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   419
in his ways, and his habits were regular. It was rare for him to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   420
up after ten at night, and he had invariably breakfasted and gone out
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   421
before I rose in the morning. Sometimes he spent his day at the chemical
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   422
laboratory, sometimes in the dissecting-rooms, and occasionally in long
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   423
walks, which appeared to take him into the lowest portions of the City.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   424
Nothing could exceed his energy when the working fit was upon him; but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   425
now and again a reaction would seize him, and for days on end he would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   426
lie upon the sofa in the sitting-room, hardly uttering a word or moving
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   427
a muscle from morning to night. On these occasions I have noticed such
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   428
a dreamy, vacant expression in his eyes, that I might have suspected him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   429
of being addicted to the use of some narcotic, had not the temperance
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   430
and cleanliness of his whole life forbidden such a notion.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   431
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   432
As the weeks went by, my interest in him and my curiosity as to his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   433
aims in life, gradually deepened and increased. His very person and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   434
appearance were such as to strike the attention of the most casual
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   435
observer. In height he was rather over six feet, and so excessively
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   436
lean that he seemed to be considerably taller. His eyes were sharp and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   437
piercing, save during those intervals of torpor to which I have alluded;
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   438
and his thin, hawk-like nose gave his whole expression an air of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   439
alertness and decision. His chin, too, had the prominence and squareness
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   440
which mark the man of determination. His hands were invariably
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   441
blotted with ink and stained with chemicals, yet he was possessed of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   442
extraordinary delicacy of touch, as I frequently had occasion to observe
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   443
when I watched him manipulating his fragile philosophical instruments.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   444
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   445
The reader may set me down as a hopeless busybody, when I confess how
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   446
much this man stimulated my curiosity, and how often I endeavoured
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   447
to break through the reticence which he showed on all that concerned
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   448
himself. Before pronouncing judgment, however, be it remembered, how
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   449
objectless was my life, and how little there was to engage my attention.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   450
My health forbade me from venturing out unless the weather was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   451
exceptionally genial, and I had no friends who would call upon me and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   452
break the monotony of my daily existence. Under these circumstances, I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   453
eagerly hailed the little mystery which hung around my companion, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   454
spent much of my time in endeavouring to unravel it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   455
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   456
He was not studying medicine. He had himself, in reply to a question,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   457
confirmed Stamford's opinion upon that point. Neither did he appear to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   458
have pursued any course of reading which might fit him for a degree in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   459
science or any other recognized portal which would give him an entrance
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   460
into the learned world. Yet his zeal for certain studies was remarkable,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   461
and within eccentric limits his knowledge was so extraordinarily ample
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   462
and minute that his observations have fairly astounded me. Surely no man
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   463
would work so hard or attain such precise information unless he had some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   464
definite end in view. Desultory readers are seldom remarkable for the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   465
exactness of their learning. No man burdens his mind with small matters
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   466
unless he has some very good reason for doing so.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   467
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   468
His ignorance was as remarkable as his knowledge. Of contemporary
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   469
literature, philosophy and politics he appeared to know next to nothing.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   470
Upon my quoting Thomas Carlyle, he inquired in the naivest way who he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   471
might be and what he had done. My surprise reached a climax, however,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   472
when I found incidentally that he was ignorant of the Copernican Theory
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   473
and of the composition of the Solar System. That any civilized human
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   474
being in this nineteenth century should not be aware that the earth
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   475
travelled round the sun appeared to be to me such an extraordinary fact
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   476
that I could hardly realize it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   477
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   478
"You appear to be astonished," he said, smiling at my expression of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   479
surprise. "Now that I do know it I shall do my best to forget it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   480
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   481
"To forget it!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   482
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   483
"You see," he explained, "I consider that a man's brain originally is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   484
like a little empty attic, and you have to stock it with such furniture
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   485
as you choose. A fool takes in all the lumber of every sort that he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   486
comes across, so that the knowledge which might be useful to him gets
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   487
crowded out, or at best is jumbled up with a lot of other things so that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   488
he has a difficulty in laying his hands upon it. Now the skilful workman
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   489
is very careful indeed as to what he takes into his brain-attic. He will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   490
have nothing but the tools which may help him in doing his work, but of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   491
these he has a large assortment, and all in the most perfect order. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   492
is a mistake to think that that little room has elastic walls and can
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   493
distend to any extent. Depend upon it there comes a time when for every
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   494
addition of knowledge you forget something that you knew before. It is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   495
of the highest importance, therefore, not to have useless facts elbowing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   496
out the useful ones."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   497
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   498
"But the Solar System!" I protested.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   499
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   500
"What the deuce is it to me?" he interrupted impatiently; "you say
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   501
that we go round the sun. If we went round the moon it would not make a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   502
pennyworth of difference to me or to my work."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   503
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   504
I was on the point of asking him what that work might be, but something
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   505
in his manner showed me that the question would be an unwelcome one. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   506
pondered over our short conversation, however, and endeavoured to draw
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   507
my deductions from it. He said that he would acquire no knowledge which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   508
did not bear upon his object. Therefore all the knowledge which he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   509
possessed was such as would be useful to him. I enumerated in my own
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   510
mind all the various points upon which he had shown me that he was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   511
exceptionally well-informed. I even took a pencil and jotted them down.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   512
I could not help smiling at the document when I had completed it. It ran
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   513
in this way--
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   514
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   515
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   516
SHERLOCK HOLMES--his limits.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   517
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   518
  1. Knowledge of Literature.--Nil.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   519
  2.              Philosophy.--Nil.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   520
  3.              Astronomy.--Nil.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   521
  4.              Politics.--Feeble.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   522
  5.              Botany.--Variable.  Well up in belladonna,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   523
                              opium, and poisons generally.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   524
                              Knows nothing of practical gardening.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   525
  6.              Geology.--Practical, but limited.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   526
                               Tells at a glance different soils
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   527
                               from each other.  After walks has
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   528
                               shown me splashes upon his trousers,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   529
                               and told me by their colour and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   530
                               consistence in what part of London
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   531
                               he had received them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   532
  7.              Chemistry.--Profound.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   533
  8.              Anatomy.--Accurate, but unsystematic.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   534
  9.              Sensational Literature.--Immense.  He appears
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   535
                              to know every detail of every horror
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   536
                              perpetrated in the century.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   537
  10. Plays the violin well.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   538
  11. Is an expert singlestick player, boxer, and swordsman.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   539
  12. Has a good practical knowledge of British law.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   540
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   541
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   542
When I had got so far in my list I threw it into the fire in despair.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   543
"If I can only find what the fellow is driving at by reconciling all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   544
these accomplishments, and discovering a calling which needs them all,"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   545
I said to myself, "I may as well give up the attempt at once."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   546
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   547
I see that I have alluded above to his powers upon the violin. These
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   548
were very remarkable, but as eccentric as all his other accomplishments.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   549
That he could play pieces, and difficult pieces, I knew well, because
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   550
at my request he has played me some of Mendelssohn's Lieder, and other
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   551
favourites. When left to himself, however, he would seldom produce any
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   552
music or attempt any recognized air. Leaning back in his arm-chair of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   553
an evening, he would close his eyes and scrape carelessly at the fiddle
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   554
which was thrown across his knee. Sometimes the chords were sonorous and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   555
melancholy. Occasionally they were fantastic and cheerful. Clearly they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   556
reflected the thoughts which possessed him, but whether the music aided
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   557
those thoughts, or whether the playing was simply the result of a whim
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   558
or fancy was more than I could determine. I might have rebelled against
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   559
these exasperating solos had it not been that he usually terminated them
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   560
by playing in quick succession a whole series of my favourite airs as a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   561
slight compensation for the trial upon my patience.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   562
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   563
During the first week or so we had no callers, and I had begun to think
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   564
that my companion was as friendless a man as I was myself. Presently,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   565
however, I found that he had many acquaintances, and those in the most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   566
different classes of society. There was one little sallow rat-faced,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   567
dark-eyed fellow who was introduced to me as Mr. Lestrade, and who came
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   568
three or four times in a single week. One morning a young girl called,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   569
fashionably dressed, and stayed for half an hour or more. The same
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   570
afternoon brought a grey-headed, seedy visitor, looking like a Jew
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   571
pedlar, who appeared to me to be much excited, and who was closely
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   572
followed by a slip-shod elderly woman. On another occasion an old
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   573
white-haired gentleman had an interview with my companion; and on
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   574
another a railway porter in his velveteen uniform. When any of these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   575
nondescript individuals put in an appearance, Sherlock Holmes used to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   576
beg for the use of the sitting-room, and I would retire to my bed-room.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   577
He always apologized to me for putting me to this inconvenience. "I have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   578
to use this room as a place of business," he said, "and these people
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   579
are my clients." Again I had an opportunity of asking him a point blank
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   580
question, and again my delicacy prevented me from forcing another man to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   581
confide in me. I imagined at the time that he had some strong reason for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   582
not alluding to it, but he soon dispelled the idea by coming round to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   583
the subject of his own accord.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   584
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   585
It was upon the 4th of March, as I have good reason to remember, that I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   586
rose somewhat earlier than usual, and found that Sherlock Holmes had not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   587
yet finished his breakfast. The landlady had become so accustomed to my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   588
late habits that my place had not been laid nor my coffee prepared. With
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   589
the unreasonable petulance of mankind I rang the bell and gave a curt
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   590
intimation that I was ready. Then I picked up a magazine from the table
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   591
and attempted to while away the time with it, while my companion munched
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   592
silently at his toast. One of the articles had a pencil mark at the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   593
heading, and I naturally began to run my eye through it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   594
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   595
Its somewhat ambitious title was "The Book of Life," and it attempted to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   596
show how much an observant man might learn by an accurate and systematic
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   597
examination of all that came in his way. It struck me as being a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   598
remarkable mixture of shrewdness and of absurdity. The reasoning was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   599
close and intense, but the deductions appeared to me to be far-fetched
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   600
and exaggerated. The writer claimed by a momentary expression, a twitch
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   601
of a muscle or a glance of an eye, to fathom a man's inmost thoughts.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   602
Deceit, according to him, was an impossibility in the case of one
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   603
trained to observation and analysis. His conclusions were as infallible
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   604
as so many propositions of Euclid. So startling would his results appear
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   605
to the uninitiated that until they learned the processes by which he had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   606
arrived at them they might well consider him as a necromancer.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   607
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   608
"From a drop of water," said the writer, "a logician could infer the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   609
possibility of an Atlantic or a Niagara without having seen or heard of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   610
one or the other. So all life is a great chain, the nature of which is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   611
known whenever we are shown a single link of it. Like all other arts,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   612
the Science of Deduction and Analysis is one which can only be acquired
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   613
by long and patient study nor is life long enough to allow any mortal
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   614
to attain the highest possible perfection in it. Before turning to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   615
those moral and mental aspects of the matter which present the greatest
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   616
difficulties, let the enquirer begin by mastering more elementary
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   617
problems. Let him, on meeting a fellow-mortal, learn at a glance to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   618
distinguish the history of the man, and the trade or profession to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   619
which he belongs. Puerile as such an exercise may seem, it sharpens the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   620
faculties of observation, and teaches one where to look and what to look
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   621
for. By a man's finger nails, by his coat-sleeve, by his boot, by his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   622
trouser knees, by the callosities of his forefinger and thumb, by his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   623
expression, by his shirt cuffs--by each of these things a man's calling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   624
is plainly revealed. That all united should fail to enlighten the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   625
competent enquirer in any case is almost inconceivable."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   626
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   627
"What ineffable twaddle!" I cried, slapping the magazine down on the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   628
table, "I never read such rubbish in my life."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   629
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   630
"What is it?" asked Sherlock Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   631
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   632
"Why, this article," I said, pointing at it with my egg spoon as I sat
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   633
down to my breakfast. "I see that you have read it since you have marked
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   634
it. I don't deny that it is smartly written. It irritates me though. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   635
is evidently the theory of some arm-chair lounger who evolves all these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   636
neat little paradoxes in the seclusion of his own study. It is not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   637
practical. I should like to see him clapped down in a third class
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   638
carriage on the Underground, and asked to give the trades of all his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   639
fellow-travellers. I would lay a thousand to one against him."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   640
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   641
"You would lose your money," Sherlock Holmes remarked calmly. "As for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   642
the article I wrote it myself."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   643
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   644
"You!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   645
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   646
"Yes, I have a turn both for observation and for deduction. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   647
theories which I have expressed there, and which appear to you to be so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   648
chimerical are really extremely practical--so practical that I depend
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   649
upon them for my bread and cheese."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   650
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   651
"And how?" I asked involuntarily.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   652
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   653
"Well, I have a trade of my own. I suppose I am the only one in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   654
world. I'm a consulting detective, if you can understand what that is.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   655
Here in London we have lots of Government detectives and lots of private
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   656
ones. When these fellows are at fault they come to me, and I manage to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   657
put them on the right scent. They lay all the evidence before me, and I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   658
am generally able, by the help of my knowledge of the history of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   659
crime, to set them straight. There is a strong family resemblance about
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   660
misdeeds, and if you have all the details of a thousand at your finger
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   661
ends, it is odd if you can't unravel the thousand and first. Lestrade
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   662
is a well-known detective. He got himself into a fog recently over a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   663
forgery case, and that was what brought him here."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   664
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   665
"And these other people?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   666
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   667
"They are mostly sent on by private inquiry agencies. They are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   668
all people who are in trouble about something, and want a little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   669
enlightening. I listen to their story, they listen to my comments, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   670
then I pocket my fee."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   671
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   672
"But do you mean to say," I said, "that without leaving your room you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   673
can unravel some knot which other men can make nothing of, although they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   674
have seen every detail for themselves?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   675
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   676
"Quite so. I have a kind of intuition that way. Now and again a case
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   677
turns up which is a little more complex. Then I have to bustle about and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   678
see things with my own eyes. You see I have a lot of special knowledge
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   679
which I apply to the problem, and which facilitates matters wonderfully.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   680
Those rules of deduction laid down in that article which aroused your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   681
scorn, are invaluable to me in practical work. Observation with me is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   682
second nature. You appeared to be surprised when I told you, on our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   683
first meeting, that you had come from Afghanistan."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   684
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   685
"You were told, no doubt."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   686
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   687
"Nothing of the sort. I _knew_ you came from Afghanistan. From long
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   688
habit the train of thoughts ran so swiftly through my mind, that I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   689
arrived at the conclusion without being conscious of intermediate steps.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   690
There were such steps, however. The train of reasoning ran, 'Here is a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   691
gentleman of a medical type, but with the air of a military man. Clearly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   692
an army doctor, then. He has just come from the tropics, for his face is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   693
dark, and that is not the natural tint of his skin, for his wrists are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   694
fair. He has undergone hardship and sickness, as his haggard face says
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   695
clearly. His left arm has been injured. He holds it in a stiff and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   696
unnatural manner. Where in the tropics could an English army doctor have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   697
seen much hardship and got his arm wounded? Clearly in Afghanistan.' The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   698
whole train of thought did not occupy a second. I then remarked that you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   699
came from Afghanistan, and you were astonished."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   700
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   701
"It is simple enough as you explain it," I said, smiling. "You remind
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   702
me of Edgar Allen Poe's Dupin. I had no idea that such individuals did
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   703
exist outside of stories."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   704
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   705
Sherlock Holmes rose and lit his pipe. "No doubt you think that you are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   706
complimenting me in comparing me to Dupin," he observed. "Now, in my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   707
opinion, Dupin was a very inferior fellow. That trick of his of breaking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   708
in on his friends' thoughts with an apropos remark after a quarter of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   709
an hour's silence is really very showy and superficial. He had some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   710
analytical genius, no doubt; but he was by no means such a phenomenon as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   711
Poe appeared to imagine."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   712
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   713
"Have you read Gaboriau's works?" I asked. "Does Lecoq come up to your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   714
idea of a detective?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   715
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   716
Sherlock Holmes sniffed sardonically. "Lecoq was a miserable bungler,"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   717
he said, in an angry voice; "he had only one thing to recommend him, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   718
that was his energy. That book made me positively ill. The question was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   719
how to identify an unknown prisoner. I could have done it in twenty-four
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   720
hours. Lecoq took six months or so. It might be made a text-book for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   721
detectives to teach them what to avoid."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   722
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   723
I felt rather indignant at having two characters whom I had admired
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   724
treated in this cavalier style. I walked over to the window, and stood
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   725
looking out into the busy street. "This fellow may be very clever," I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   726
said to myself, "but he is certainly very conceited."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   727
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   728
"There are no crimes and no criminals in these days," he said,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   729
querulously. "What is the use of having brains in our profession. I know
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   730
well that I have it in me to make my name famous. No man lives or has
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   731
ever lived who has brought the same amount of study and of natural
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   732
talent to the detection of crime which I have done. And what is the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   733
result? There is no crime to detect, or, at most, some bungling villany
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   734
with a motive so transparent that even a Scotland Yard official can see
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   735
through it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   736
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   737
I was still annoyed at his bumptious style of conversation. I thought it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   738
best to change the topic.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   739
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   740
"I wonder what that fellow is looking for?" I asked, pointing to a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   741
stalwart, plainly-dressed individual who was walking slowly down the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   742
other side of the street, looking anxiously at the numbers. He had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   743
a large blue envelope in his hand, and was evidently the bearer of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   744
message.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   745
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   746
"You mean the retired sergeant of Marines," said Sherlock Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   747
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   748
"Brag and bounce!" thought I to myself. "He knows that I cannot verify
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   749
his guess."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   750
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   751
The thought had hardly passed through my mind when the man whom we were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   752
watching caught sight of the number on our door, and ran rapidly across
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   753
the roadway. We heard a loud knock, a deep voice below, and heavy steps
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   754
ascending the stair.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   755
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   756
"For Mr. Sherlock Holmes," he said, stepping into the room and handing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   757
my friend the letter.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   758
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   759
Here was an opportunity of taking the conceit out of him. He little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   760
thought of this when he made that random shot. "May I ask, my lad," I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   761
said, in the blandest voice, "what your trade may be?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   762
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   763
"Commissionaire, sir," he said, gruffly. "Uniform away for repairs."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   764
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   765
"And you were?" I asked, with a slightly malicious glance at my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   766
companion.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   767
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   768
"A sergeant, sir, Royal Marine Light Infantry, sir. No answer? Right,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   769
sir."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   770
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   771
He clicked his heels together, raised his hand in a salute, and was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   772
gone.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   773
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   774
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   775
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   776
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   777
CHAPTER III. THE LAURISTON GARDEN MYSTERY [6]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   778
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   779
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   780
I CONFESS that I was considerably startled by this fresh proof of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   781
practical nature of my companion's theories. My respect for his powers
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   782
of analysis increased wondrously. There still remained some lurking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   783
suspicion in my mind, however, that the whole thing was a pre-arranged
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   784
episode, intended to dazzle me, though what earthly object he could have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   785
in taking me in was past my comprehension. When I looked at him he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   786
had finished reading the note, and his eyes had assumed the vacant,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   787
lack-lustre expression which showed mental abstraction.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   788
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   789
"How in the world did you deduce that?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   790
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   791
"Deduce what?" said he, petulantly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   792
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   793
"Why, that he was a retired sergeant of Marines."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   794
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   795
"I have no time for trifles," he answered, brusquely; then with a smile,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   796
"Excuse my rudeness. You broke the thread of my thoughts; but perhaps
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   797
it is as well. So you actually were not able to see that that man was a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   798
sergeant of Marines?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   799
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   800
"No, indeed."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   801
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   802
"It was easier to know it than to explain why I knew it. If you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   803
were asked to prove that two and two made four, you might find some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   804
difficulty, and yet you are quite sure of the fact. Even across the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   805
street I could see a great blue anchor tattooed on the back of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   806
fellow's hand. That smacked of the sea. He had a military carriage,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   807
however, and regulation side whiskers. There we have the marine. He was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   808
a man with some amount of self-importance and a certain air of command.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   809
You must have observed the way in which he held his head and swung
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   810
his cane. A steady, respectable, middle-aged man, too, on the face of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   811
him--all facts which led me to believe that he had been a sergeant."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   812
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   813
"Wonderful!" I ejaculated.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   814
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   815
"Commonplace," said Holmes, though I thought from his expression that he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   816
was pleased at my evident surprise and admiration. "I said just now that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   817
there were no criminals. It appears that I am wrong--look at this!" He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   818
threw me over the note which the commissionaire had brought. [7]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   819
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   820
"Why," I cried, as I cast my eye over it, "this is terrible!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   821
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   822
"It does seem to be a little out of the common," he remarked, calmly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   823
"Would you mind reading it to me aloud?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   824
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   825
This is the letter which I read to him----
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   826
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   827
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   828
"MY DEAR MR. SHERLOCK HOLMES,--
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   829
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   830
"There has been a bad business during the night at 3, Lauriston Gardens,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   831
off the Brixton Road. Our man on the beat saw a light there about two in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   832
the morning, and as the house was an empty one, suspected that something
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   833
was amiss. He found the door open, and in the front room, which is bare
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   834
of furniture, discovered the body of a gentleman, well dressed, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   835
having cards in his pocket bearing the name of 'Enoch J. Drebber,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   836
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.' There had been no robbery, nor is there any
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   837
evidence as to how the man met his death. There are marks of blood in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   838
the room, but there is no wound upon his person. We are at a loss as to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   839
how he came into the empty house; indeed, the whole affair is a puzzler.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   840
If you can come round to the house any time before twelve, you will find
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   841
me there. I have left everything _in statu quo_ until I hear from you.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   842
If you are unable to come I shall give you fuller details, and would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   843
esteem it a great kindness if you would favour me with your opinion.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   844
Yours faithfully,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   845
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   846
"TOBIAS GREGSON."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   847
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   848
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   849
"Gregson is the smartest of the Scotland Yarders," my friend remarked;
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   850
"he and Lestrade are the pick of a bad lot. They are both quick and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   851
energetic, but conventional--shockingly so. They have their knives
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   852
into one another, too. They are as jealous as a pair of professional
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   853
beauties. There will be some fun over this case if they are both put
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   854
upon the scent."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   855
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   856
I was amazed at the calm way in which he rippled on. "Surely there is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   857
not a moment to be lost," I cried, "shall I go and order you a cab?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   858
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   859
"I'm not sure about whether I shall go. I am the most incurably lazy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   860
devil that ever stood in shoe leather--that is, when the fit is on me,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   861
for I can be spry enough at times."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   862
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   863
"Why, it is just such a chance as you have been longing for."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   864
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   865
"My dear fellow, what does it matter to me. Supposing I unravel the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   866
whole matter, you may be sure that Gregson, Lestrade, and Co. will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   867
pocket all the credit. That comes of being an unofficial personage."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   868
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   869
"But he begs you to help him."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   870
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   871
"Yes. He knows that I am his superior, and acknowledges it to me; but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   872
he would cut his tongue out before he would own it to any third person.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   873
However, we may as well go and have a look. I shall work it out on my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   874
own hook. I may have a laugh at them if I have nothing else. Come on!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   875
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   876
He hustled on his overcoat, and bustled about in a way that showed that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   877
an energetic fit had superseded the apathetic one.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   878
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   879
"Get your hat," he said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   880
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   881
"You wish me to come?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   882
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   883
"Yes, if you have nothing better to do." A minute later we were both in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   884
a hansom, driving furiously for the Brixton Road.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   885
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   886
It was a foggy, cloudy morning, and a dun-coloured veil hung over the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   887
house-tops, looking like the reflection of the mud-coloured streets
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   888
beneath. My companion was in the best of spirits, and prattled away
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   889
about Cremona fiddles, and the difference between a Stradivarius and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   890
an Amati. As for myself, I was silent, for the dull weather and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   891
melancholy business upon which we were engaged, depressed my spirits.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   892
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   893
"You don't seem to give much thought to the matter in hand," I said at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   894
last, interrupting Holmes' musical disquisition.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   895
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   896
"No data yet," he answered. "It is a capital mistake to theorize before
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   897
you have all the evidence. It biases the judgment."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   898
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   899
"You will have your data soon," I remarked, pointing with my finger;
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   900
"this is the Brixton Road, and that is the house, if I am not very much
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   901
mistaken."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   902
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   903
"So it is. Stop, driver, stop!" We were still a hundred yards or so from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   904
it, but he insisted upon our alighting, and we finished our journey upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   905
foot.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   906
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   907
Number 3, Lauriston Gardens wore an ill-omened and minatory look. It was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   908
one of four which stood back some little way from the street, two being
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   909
occupied and two empty. The latter looked out with three tiers of vacant
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   910
melancholy windows, which were blank and dreary, save that here and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   911
there a "To Let" card had developed like a cataract upon the bleared
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   912
panes. A small garden sprinkled over with a scattered eruption of sickly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   913
plants separated each of these houses from the street, and was traversed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   914
by a narrow pathway, yellowish in colour, and consisting apparently of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   915
mixture of clay and of gravel. The whole place was very sloppy from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   916
rain which had fallen through the night. The garden was bounded by a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   917
three-foot brick wall with a fringe of wood rails upon the top, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   918
against this wall was leaning a stalwart police constable, surrounded by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   919
a small knot of loafers, who craned their necks and strained their eyes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   920
in the vain hope of catching some glimpse of the proceedings within.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   921
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   922
I had imagined that Sherlock Holmes would at once have hurried into the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   923
house and plunged into a study of the mystery. Nothing appeared to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   924
further from his intention. With an air of nonchalance which, under the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   925
circumstances, seemed to me to border upon affectation, he lounged up
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   926
and down the pavement, and gazed vacantly at the ground, the sky, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   927
opposite houses and the line of railings. Having finished his scrutiny,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   928
he proceeded slowly down the path, or rather down the fringe of grass
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   929
which flanked the path, keeping his eyes riveted upon the ground. Twice
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   930
he stopped, and once I saw him smile, and heard him utter an exclamation
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   931
of satisfaction. There were many marks of footsteps upon the wet clayey
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   932
soil, but since the police had been coming and going over it, I was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   933
unable to see how my companion could hope to learn anything from it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   934
Still I had had such extraordinary evidence of the quickness of his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   935
perceptive faculties, that I had no doubt that he could see a great deal
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   936
which was hidden from me.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   937
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   938
At the door of the house we were met by a tall, white-faced,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   939
flaxen-haired man, with a notebook in his hand, who rushed forward and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   940
wrung my companion's hand with effusion. "It is indeed kind of you to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   941
come," he said, "I have had everything left untouched."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   942
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   943
"Except that!" my friend answered, pointing at the pathway. "If a herd
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   944
of buffaloes had passed along there could not be a greater mess. No
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   945
doubt, however, you had drawn your own conclusions, Gregson, before you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   946
permitted this."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   947
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   948
"I have had so much to do inside the house," the detective said
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   949
evasively. "My colleague, Mr. Lestrade, is here. I had relied upon him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   950
to look after this."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   951
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   952
Holmes glanced at me and raised his eyebrows sardonically. "With two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   953
such men as yourself and Lestrade upon the ground, there will not be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   954
much for a third party to find out," he said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   955
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   956
Gregson rubbed his hands in a self-satisfied way. "I think we have done
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   957
all that can be done," he answered; "it's a queer case though, and I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   958
knew your taste for such things."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   959
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   960
"You did not come here in a cab?" asked Sherlock Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   961
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   962
"No, sir."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   963
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   964
"Nor Lestrade?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   965
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   966
"No, sir."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   967
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   968
"Then let us go and look at the room." With which inconsequent remark he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   969
strode on into the house, followed by Gregson, whose features expressed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   970
his astonishment.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   971
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   972
A short passage, bare planked and dusty, led to the kitchen and offices.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   973
Two doors opened out of it to the left and to the right. One of these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   974
had obviously been closed for many weeks. The other belonged to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   975
dining-room, which was the apartment in which the mysterious affair had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   976
occurred. Holmes walked in, and I followed him with that subdued feeling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   977
at my heart which the presence of death inspires.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   978
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   979
It was a large square room, looking all the larger from the absence
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   980
of all furniture. A vulgar flaring paper adorned the walls, but it was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   981
blotched in places with mildew, and here and there great strips had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   982
become detached and hung down, exposing the yellow plaster beneath.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   983
Opposite the door was a showy fireplace, surmounted by a mantelpiece of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   984
imitation white marble. On one corner of this was stuck the stump of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   985
red wax candle. The solitary window was so dirty that the light was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   986
hazy and uncertain, giving a dull grey tinge to everything, which was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   987
intensified by the thick layer of dust which coated the whole apartment.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   988
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   989
All these details I observed afterwards. At present my attention was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   990
centred upon the single grim motionless figure which lay stretched upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   991
the boards, with vacant sightless eyes staring up at the discoloured
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   992
ceiling. It was that of a man about forty-three or forty-four years of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   993
age, middle-sized, broad shouldered, with crisp curling black hair, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   994
a short stubbly beard. He was dressed in a heavy broadcloth frock coat
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   995
and waistcoat, with light-coloured trousers, and immaculate collar
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   996
and cuffs. A top hat, well brushed and trim, was placed upon the floor
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   997
beside him. His hands were clenched and his arms thrown abroad, while
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   998
his lower limbs were interlocked as though his death struggle had been a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
   999
grievous one. On his rigid face there stood an expression of horror,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1000
and as it seemed to me, of hatred, such as I have never seen upon human
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1001
features. This malignant and terrible contortion, combined with the low
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1002
forehead, blunt nose, and prognathous jaw gave the dead man a singularly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1003
simious and ape-like appearance, which was increased by his writhing,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1004
unnatural posture. I have seen death in many forms, but never has
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1005
it appeared to me in a more fearsome aspect than in that dark grimy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1006
apartment, which looked out upon one of the main arteries of suburban
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1007
London.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1008
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1009
Lestrade, lean and ferret-like as ever, was standing by the doorway, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1010
greeted my companion and myself.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1011
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1012
"This case will make a stir, sir," he remarked. "It beats anything I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1013
have seen, and I am no chicken."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1014
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1015
"There is no clue?" said Gregson.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1016
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1017
"None at all," chimed in Lestrade.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1018
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1019
Sherlock Holmes approached the body, and, kneeling down, examined it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1020
intently. "You are sure that there is no wound?" he asked, pointing to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1021
numerous gouts and splashes of blood which lay all round.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1022
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1023
"Positive!" cried both detectives.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1024
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1025
"Then, of course, this blood belongs to a second individual--[8]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1026
presumably the murderer, if murder has been committed. It reminds me of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1027
the circumstances attendant on the death of Van Jansen, in Utrecht, in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1028
the year '34. Do you remember the case, Gregson?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1029
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1030
"No, sir."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1031
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1032
"Read it up--you really should. There is nothing new under the sun. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1033
has all been done before."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1034
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1035
As he spoke, his nimble fingers were flying here, there, and everywhere,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1036
feeling, pressing, unbuttoning, examining, while his eyes wore the same
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1037
far-away expression which I have already remarked upon. So swiftly was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1038
the examination made, that one would hardly have guessed the minuteness
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1039
with which it was conducted. Finally, he sniffed the dead man's lips,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1040
and then glanced at the soles of his patent leather boots.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1041
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1042
"He has not been moved at all?" he asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1043
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1044
"No more than was necessary for the purposes of our examination."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1045
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1046
"You can take him to the mortuary now," he said. "There is nothing more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1047
to be learned."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1048
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1049
Gregson had a stretcher and four men at hand. At his call they entered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1050
the room, and the stranger was lifted and carried out. As they raised
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1051
him, a ring tinkled down and rolled across the floor. Lestrade grabbed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1052
it up and stared at it with mystified eyes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1053
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1054
"There's been a woman here," he cried. "It's a woman's wedding-ring."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1055
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1056
He held it out, as he spoke, upon the palm of his hand. We all gathered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1057
round him and gazed at it. There could be no doubt that that circlet of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1058
plain gold had once adorned the finger of a bride.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1059
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1060
"This complicates matters," said Gregson. "Heaven knows, they were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1061
complicated enough before."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1062
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1063
"You're sure it doesn't simplify them?" observed Holmes. "There's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1064
nothing to be learned by staring at it. What did you find in his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1065
pockets?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1066
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1067
"We have it all here," said Gregson, pointing to a litter of objects
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1068
upon one of the bottom steps of the stairs. "A gold watch, No. 97163, by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1069
Barraud, of London. Gold Albert chain, very heavy and solid. Gold ring,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1070
with masonic device. Gold pin--bull-dog's head, with rubies as eyes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1071
Russian leather card-case, with cards of Enoch J. Drebber of Cleveland,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1072
corresponding with the E. J. D. upon the linen. No purse, but loose
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1073
money to the extent of seven pounds thirteen. Pocket edition of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1074
Boccaccio's 'Decameron,' with name of Joseph Stangerson upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1075
fly-leaf. Two letters--one addressed to E. J. Drebber and one to Joseph
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1076
Stangerson."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1077
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1078
"At what address?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1079
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1080
"American Exchange, Strand--to be left till called for. They are both
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1081
from the Guion Steamship Company, and refer to the sailing of their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1082
boats from Liverpool. It is clear that this unfortunate man was about to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1083
return to New York."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1084
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1085
"Have you made any inquiries as to this man, Stangerson?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1086
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1087
"I did it at once, sir," said Gregson. "I have had advertisements
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1088
sent to all the newspapers, and one of my men has gone to the American
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1089
Exchange, but he has not returned yet."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1090
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1091
"Have you sent to Cleveland?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1092
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1093
"We telegraphed this morning."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1094
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1095
"How did you word your inquiries?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1096
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1097
"We simply detailed the circumstances, and said that we should be glad
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1098
of any information which could help us."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1099
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1100
"You did not ask for particulars on any point which appeared to you to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1101
be crucial?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1102
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1103
"I asked about Stangerson."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1104
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1105
"Nothing else? Is there no circumstance on which this whole case appears
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1106
to hinge? Will you not telegraph again?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1107
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1108
"I have said all I have to say," said Gregson, in an offended voice.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1109
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1110
Sherlock Holmes chuckled to himself, and appeared to be about to make
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1111
some remark, when Lestrade, who had been in the front room while we
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1112
were holding this conversation in the hall, reappeared upon the scene,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1113
rubbing his hands in a pompous and self-satisfied manner.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1114
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1115
"Mr. Gregson," he said, "I have just made a discovery of the highest
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1116
importance, and one which would have been overlooked had I not made a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1117
careful examination of the walls."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1118
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1119
The little man's eyes sparkled as he spoke, and he was evidently in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1120
a state of suppressed exultation at having scored a point against his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1121
colleague.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1122
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1123
"Come here," he said, bustling back into the room, the atmosphere of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1124
which felt clearer since the removal of its ghastly inmate. "Now, stand
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1125
there!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1126
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1127
He struck a match on his boot and held it up against the wall.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1128
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1129
"Look at that!" he said, triumphantly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1130
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1131
I have remarked that the paper had fallen away in parts. In this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1132
particular corner of the room a large piece had peeled off, leaving a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1133
yellow square of coarse plastering. Across this bare space there was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1134
scrawled in blood-red letters a single word--
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1135
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1136
                         RACHE.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1137
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1138
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1139
"What do you think of that?" cried the detective, with the air of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1140
showman exhibiting his show. "This was overlooked because it was in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1141
darkest corner of the room, and no one thought of looking there. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1142
murderer has written it with his or her own blood. See this smear where
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1143
it has trickled down the wall! That disposes of the idea of suicide
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1144
anyhow. Why was that corner chosen to write it on? I will tell you. See
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1145
that candle on the mantelpiece. It was lit at the time, and if it was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1146
lit this corner would be the brightest instead of the darkest portion of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1147
the wall."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1148
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1149
"And what does it mean now that you _have_ found it?" asked Gregson in a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1150
depreciatory voice.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1151
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1152
"Mean? Why, it means that the writer was going to put the female name
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1153
Rachel, but was disturbed before he or she had time to finish. You mark
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1154
my words, when this case comes to be cleared up you will find that a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1155
woman named Rachel has something to do with it. It's all very well for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1156
you to laugh, Mr. Sherlock Holmes. You may be very smart and clever, but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1157
the old hound is the best, when all is said and done."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1158
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1159
"I really beg your pardon!" said my companion, who had ruffled the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1160
little man's temper by bursting into an explosion of laughter. "You
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1161
certainly have the credit of being the first of us to find this out,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1162
and, as you say, it bears every mark of having been written by the other
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1163
participant in last night's mystery. I have not had time to examine this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1164
room yet, but with your permission I shall do so now."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1165
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1166
As he spoke, he whipped a tape measure and a large round magnifying
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1167
glass from his pocket. With these two implements he trotted noiselessly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1168
about the room, sometimes stopping, occasionally kneeling, and once
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1169
lying flat upon his face. So engrossed was he with his occupation that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1170
he appeared to have forgotten our presence, for he chattered away to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1171
himself under his breath the whole time, keeping up a running fire
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1172
of exclamations, groans, whistles, and little cries suggestive of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1173
encouragement and of hope. As I watched him I was irresistibly reminded
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1174
of a pure-blooded well-trained foxhound as it dashes backwards and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1175
forwards through the covert, whining in its eagerness, until it comes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1176
across the lost scent. For twenty minutes or more he continued his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1177
researches, measuring with the most exact care the distance between
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1178
marks which were entirely invisible to me, and occasionally applying his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1179
tape to the walls in an equally incomprehensible manner. In one place
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1180
he gathered up very carefully a little pile of grey dust from the floor,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1181
and packed it away in an envelope. Finally, he examined with his glass
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1182
the word upon the wall, going over every letter of it with the most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1183
minute exactness. This done, he appeared to be satisfied, for he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1184
replaced his tape and his glass in his pocket.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1185
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1186
"They say that genius is an infinite capacity for taking pains," he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1187
remarked with a smile. "It's a very bad definition, but it does apply to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1188
detective work."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1189
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1190
Gregson and Lestrade had watched the manoeuvres [9] of their amateur
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1191
companion with considerable curiosity and some contempt. They evidently
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1192
failed to appreciate the fact, which I had begun to realize, that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1193
Sherlock Holmes' smallest actions were all directed towards some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1194
definite and practical end.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1195
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1196
"What do you think of it, sir?" they both asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1197
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1198
"It would be robbing you of the credit of the case if I was to presume
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1199
to help you," remarked my friend. "You are doing so well now that it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1200
would be a pity for anyone to interfere." There was a world of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1201
sarcasm in his voice as he spoke. "If you will let me know how your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1202
investigations go," he continued, "I shall be happy to give you any help
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1203
I can. In the meantime I should like to speak to the constable who found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1204
the body. Can you give me his name and address?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1205
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1206
Lestrade glanced at his note-book. "John Rance," he said. "He is off
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1207
duty now. You will find him at 46, Audley Court, Kennington Park Gate."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1208
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1209
Holmes took a note of the address.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1210
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1211
"Come along, Doctor," he said; "we shall go and look him up. I'll tell
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1212
you one thing which may help you in the case," he continued, turning to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1213
the two detectives. "There has been murder done, and the murderer was a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1214
man. He was more than six feet high, was in the prime of life, had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1215
small feet for his height, wore coarse, square-toed boots and smoked a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1216
Trichinopoly cigar. He came here with his victim in a four-wheeled cab,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1217
which was drawn by a horse with three old shoes and one new one on his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1218
off fore leg. In all probability the murderer had a florid face, and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1219
finger-nails of his right hand were remarkably long. These are only a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1220
few indications, but they may assist you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1221
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1222
Lestrade and Gregson glanced at each other with an incredulous smile.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1223
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1224
"If this man was murdered, how was it done?" asked the former.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1225
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1226
"Poison," said Sherlock Holmes curtly, and strode off. "One other thing,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1227
Lestrade," he added, turning round at the door: "'Rache,' is the German
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1228
for 'revenge;' so don't lose your time looking for Miss Rachel."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1229
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1230
With which Parthian shot he walked away, leaving the two rivals
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1231
open-mouthed behind him.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1232
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1233
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1234
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1235
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1236
CHAPTER IV. WHAT JOHN RANCE HAD TO TELL.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1237
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1238
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1239
IT was one o'clock when we left No. 3, Lauriston Gardens. Sherlock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1240
Holmes led me to the nearest telegraph office, whence he dispatched a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1241
long telegram. He then hailed a cab, and ordered the driver to take us
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1242
to the address given us by Lestrade.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1243
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1244
"There is nothing like first hand evidence," he remarked; "as a matter
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1245
of fact, my mind is entirely made up upon the case, but still we may as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1246
well learn all that is to be learned."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1247
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1248
"You amaze me, Holmes," said I. "Surely you are not as sure as you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1249
pretend to be of all those particulars which you gave."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1250
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1251
"There's no room for a mistake," he answered. "The very first thing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1252
which I observed on arriving there was that a cab had made two ruts with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1253
its wheels close to the curb. Now, up to last night, we have had no rain
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1254
for a week, so that those wheels which left such a deep impression must
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1255
have been there during the night. There were the marks of the horse's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1256
hoofs, too, the outline of one of which was far more clearly cut than
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1257
that of the other three, showing that that was a new shoe. Since the cab
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1258
was there after the rain began, and was not there at any time during the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1259
morning--I have Gregson's word for that--it follows that it must have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1260
been there during the night, and, therefore, that it brought those two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1261
individuals to the house."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1262
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1263
"That seems simple enough," said I; "but how about the other man's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1264
height?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1265
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1266
"Why, the height of a man, in nine cases out of ten, can be told from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1267
the length of his stride. It is a simple calculation enough, though
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1268
there is no use my boring you with figures. I had this fellow's stride
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1269
both on the clay outside and on the dust within. Then I had a way of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1270
checking my calculation. When a man writes on a wall, his instinct leads
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1271
him to write about the level of his own eyes. Now that writing was just
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1272
over six feet from the ground. It was child's play."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1273
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1274
"And his age?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1275
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1276
"Well, if a man can stride four and a-half feet without the smallest
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1277
effort, he can't be quite in the sere and yellow. That was the breadth
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1278
of a puddle on the garden walk which he had evidently walked across.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1279
Patent-leather boots had gone round, and Square-toes had hopped over.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1280
There is no mystery about it at all. I am simply applying to ordinary
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1281
life a few of those precepts of observation and deduction which I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1282
advocated in that article. Is there anything else that puzzles you?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1283
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1284
"The finger nails and the Trichinopoly," I suggested.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1285
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1286
"The writing on the wall was done with a man's forefinger dipped in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1287
blood. My glass allowed me to observe that the plaster was slightly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1288
scratched in doing it, which would not have been the case if the man's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1289
nail had been trimmed. I gathered up some scattered ash from the floor.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1290
It was dark in colour and flakey--such an ash as is only made by a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1291
Trichinopoly. I have made a special study of cigar ashes--in fact, I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1292
have written a monograph upon the subject. I flatter myself that I can
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1293
distinguish at a glance the ash of any known brand, either of cigar
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1294
or of tobacco. It is just in such details that the skilled detective
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1295
differs from the Gregson and Lestrade type."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1296
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1297
"And the florid face?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1298
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1299
"Ah, that was a more daring shot, though I have no doubt that I was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1300
right. You must not ask me that at the present state of the affair."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1301
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1302
I passed my hand over my brow. "My head is in a whirl," I remarked; "the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1303
more one thinks of it the more mysterious it grows. How came these two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1304
men--if there were two men--into an empty house? What has become of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1305
cabman who drove them? How could one man compel another to take poison?
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1306
Where did the blood come from? What was the object of the murderer,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1307
since robbery had no part in it? How came the woman's ring there? Above
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1308
all, why should the second man write up the German word RACHE before
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1309
decamping? I confess that I cannot see any possible way of reconciling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1310
all these facts."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1311
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1312
My companion smiled approvingly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1313
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1314
"You sum up the difficulties of the situation succinctly and well," he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1315
said. "There is much that is still obscure, though I have quite made up
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1316
my mind on the main facts. As to poor Lestrade's discovery it was simply
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1317
a blind intended to put the police upon a wrong track, by suggesting
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1318
Socialism and secret societies. It was not done by a German. The A, if
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1319
you noticed, was printed somewhat after the German fashion. Now, a real
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1320
German invariably prints in the Latin character, so that we may safely
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1321
say that this was not written by one, but by a clumsy imitator who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1322
overdid his part. It was simply a ruse to divert inquiry into a wrong
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1323
channel. I'm not going to tell you much more of the case, Doctor. You
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1324
know a conjuror gets no credit when once he has explained his trick,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1325
and if I show you too much of my method of working, you will come to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1326
conclusion that I am a very ordinary individual after all."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1327
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1328
"I shall never do that," I answered; "you have brought detection as near
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1329
an exact science as it ever will be brought in this world."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1330
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1331
My companion flushed up with pleasure at my words, and the earnest way
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1332
in which I uttered them. I had already observed that he was as sensitive
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1333
to flattery on the score of his art as any girl could be of her beauty.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1334
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1335
"I'll tell you one other thing," he said. "Patent leathers [10] and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1336
Square-toes came in the same cab, and they walked down the pathway
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1337
together as friendly as possible--arm-in-arm, in all probability.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1338
When they got inside they walked up and down the room--or rather,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1339
Patent-leathers stood still while Square-toes walked up and down. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1340
could read all that in the dust; and I could read that as he walked he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1341
grew more and more excited. That is shown by the increased length of his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1342
strides. He was talking all the while, and working himself up, no doubt,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1343
into a fury. Then the tragedy occurred. I've told you all I know myself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1344
now, for the rest is mere surmise and conjecture. We have a good working
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1345
basis, however, on which to start. We must hurry up, for I want to go to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1346
Halle's concert to hear Norman Neruda this afternoon."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1347
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1348
This conversation had occurred while our cab had been threading its way
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1349
through a long succession of dingy streets and dreary by-ways. In the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1350
dingiest and dreariest of them our driver suddenly came to a stand.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1351
"That's Audley Court in there," he said, pointing to a narrow slit in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1352
the line of dead-coloured brick. "You'll find me here when you come
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1353
back."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1354
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1355
Audley Court was not an attractive locality. The narrow passage led us
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1356
into a quadrangle paved with flags and lined by sordid dwellings. We
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1357
picked our way among groups of dirty children, and through lines of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1358
discoloured linen, until we came to Number 46, the door of which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1359
was decorated with a small slip of brass on which the name Rance was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1360
engraved. On enquiry we found that the constable was in bed, and we were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1361
shown into a little front parlour to await his coming.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1362
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1363
He appeared presently, looking a little irritable at being disturbed in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1364
his slumbers. "I made my report at the office," he said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1365
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1366
Holmes took a half-sovereign from his pocket and played with it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1367
pensively. "We thought that we should like to hear it all from your own
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1368
lips," he said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1369
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1370
"I shall be most happy to tell you anything I can," the constable
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1371
answered with his eyes upon the little golden disk.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1372
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1373
"Just let us hear it all in your own way as it occurred."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1374
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1375
Rance sat down on the horsehair sofa, and knitted his brows as though
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1376
determined not to omit anything in his narrative.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1377
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1378
"I'll tell it ye from the beginning," he said. "My time is from ten at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1379
night to six in the morning. At eleven there was a fight at the 'White
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1380
Hart'; but bar that all was quiet enough on the beat. At one o'clock it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1381
began to rain, and I met Harry Murcher--him who has the Holland Grove
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1382
beat--and we stood together at the corner of Henrietta Street a-talkin'.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1383
Presently--maybe about two or a little after--I thought I would take
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1384
a look round and see that all was right down the Brixton Road. It was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1385
precious dirty and lonely. Not a soul did I meet all the way down,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1386
though a cab or two went past me. I was a strollin' down, thinkin'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1387
between ourselves how uncommon handy a four of gin hot would be, when
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1388
suddenly the glint of a light caught my eye in the window of that same
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1389
house. Now, I knew that them two houses in Lauriston Gardens was empty
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1390
on account of him that owns them who won't have the drains seed to,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1391
though the very last tenant what lived in one of them died o' typhoid
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1392
fever. I was knocked all in a heap therefore at seeing a light in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1393
the window, and I suspected as something was wrong. When I got to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1394
door----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1395
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1396
"You stopped, and then walked back to the garden gate," my companion
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1397
interrupted. "What did you do that for?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1398
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1399
Rance gave a violent jump, and stared at Sherlock Holmes with the utmost
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1400
amazement upon his features.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1401
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1402
"Why, that's true, sir," he said; "though how you come to know it,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1403
Heaven only knows. Ye see, when I got up to the door it was so still and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1404
so lonesome, that I thought I'd be none the worse for some one with me.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1405
I ain't afeared of anything on this side o' the grave; but I thought
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1406
that maybe it was him that died o' the typhoid inspecting the drains
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1407
what killed him. The thought gave me a kind o' turn, and I walked back
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1408
to the gate to see if I could see Murcher's lantern, but there wasn't no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1409
sign of him nor of anyone else."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1410
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1411
"There was no one in the street?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1412
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1413
"Not a livin' soul, sir, nor as much as a dog. Then I pulled myself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1414
together and went back and pushed the door open. All was quiet inside,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1415
so I went into the room where the light was a-burnin'. There was a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1416
candle flickerin' on the mantelpiece--a red wax one--and by its light I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1417
saw----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1418
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1419
"Yes, I know all that you saw. You walked round the room several times,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1420
and you knelt down by the body, and then you walked through and tried
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1421
the kitchen door, and then----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1422
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1423
John Rance sprang to his feet with a frightened face and suspicion in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1424
his eyes. "Where was you hid to see all that?" he cried. "It seems to me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1425
that you knows a deal more than you should."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1426
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1427
Holmes laughed and threw his card across the table to the constable.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1428
"Don't get arresting me for the murder," he said. "I am one of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1429
hounds and not the wolf; Mr. Gregson or Mr. Lestrade will answer for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1430
that. Go on, though. What did you do next?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1431
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1432
Rance resumed his seat, without however losing his mystified expression.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1433
"I went back to the gate and sounded my whistle. That brought Murcher
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1434
and two more to the spot."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1435
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1436
"Was the street empty then?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1437
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1438
"Well, it was, as far as anybody that could be of any good goes."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1439
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1440
"What do you mean?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1441
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1442
The constable's features broadened into a grin. "I've seen many a drunk
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1443
chap in my time," he said, "but never anyone so cryin' drunk as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1444
that cove. He was at the gate when I came out, a-leanin' up agin the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1445
railings, and a-singin' at the pitch o' his lungs about Columbine's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1446
New-fangled Banner, or some such stuff. He couldn't stand, far less
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1447
help."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1448
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1449
"What sort of a man was he?" asked Sherlock Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1450
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1451
John Rance appeared to be somewhat irritated at this digression. "He was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1452
an uncommon drunk sort o' man," he said. "He'd ha' found hisself in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1453
station if we hadn't been so took up."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1454
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1455
"His face--his dress--didn't you notice them?" Holmes broke in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1456
impatiently.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1457
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1458
"I should think I did notice them, seeing that I had to prop him up--me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1459
and Murcher between us. He was a long chap, with a red face, the lower
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1460
part muffled round----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1461
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1462
"That will do," cried Holmes. "What became of him?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1463
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1464
"We'd enough to do without lookin' after him," the policeman said, in an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1465
aggrieved voice. "I'll wager he found his way home all right."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1466
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1467
"How was he dressed?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1468
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1469
"A brown overcoat."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1470
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1471
"Had he a whip in his hand?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1472
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1473
"A whip--no."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1474
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1475
"He must have left it behind," muttered my companion. "You didn't happen
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1476
to see or hear a cab after that?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1477
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1478
"No."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1479
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1480
"There's a half-sovereign for you," my companion said, standing up and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1481
taking his hat. "I am afraid, Rance, that you will never rise in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1482
force. That head of yours should be for use as well as ornament. You
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1483
might have gained your sergeant's stripes last night. The man whom you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1484
held in your hands is the man who holds the clue of this mystery, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1485
whom we are seeking. There is no use of arguing about it now; I tell you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1486
that it is so. Come along, Doctor."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1487
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1488
We started off for the cab together, leaving our informant incredulous,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1489
but obviously uncomfortable.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1490
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1491
"The blundering fool," Holmes said, bitterly, as we drove back to our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1492
lodgings. "Just to think of his having such an incomparable bit of good
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1493
luck, and not taking advantage of it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1494
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1495
"I am rather in the dark still. It is true that the description of this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1496
man tallies with your idea of the second party in this mystery. But why
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1497
should he come back to the house after leaving it? That is not the way
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1498
of criminals."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1499
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1500
"The ring, man, the ring: that was what he came back for. If we have no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1501
other way of catching him, we can always bait our line with the ring. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1502
shall have him, Doctor--I'll lay you two to one that I have him. I must
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1503
thank you for it all. I might not have gone but for you, and so have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1504
missed the finest study I ever came across: a study in scarlet, eh?
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1505
Why shouldn't we use a little art jargon. There's the scarlet thread of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1506
murder running through the colourless skein of life, and our duty is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1507
to unravel it, and isolate it, and expose every inch of it. And now
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1508
for lunch, and then for Norman Neruda. Her attack and her bowing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1509
are splendid. What's that little thing of Chopin's she plays so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1510
magnificently: Tra-la-la-lira-lira-lay."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1511
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1512
Leaning back in the cab, this amateur bloodhound carolled away like a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1513
lark while I meditated upon the many-sidedness of the human mind.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1514
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1515
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1516
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1517
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1518
CHAPTER V. OUR ADVERTISEMENT BRINGS A VISITOR.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1519
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1520
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1521
OUR morning's exertions had been too much for my weak health, and I was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1522
tired out in the afternoon. After Holmes' departure for the concert, I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1523
lay down upon the sofa and endeavoured to get a couple of hours' sleep.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1524
It was a useless attempt. My mind had been too much excited by all that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1525
had occurred, and the strangest fancies and surmises crowded into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1526
it. Every time that I closed my eyes I saw before me the distorted
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1527
baboon-like countenance of the murdered man. So sinister was the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1528
impression which that face had produced upon me that I found it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1529
difficult to feel anything but gratitude for him who had removed its
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1530
owner from the world. If ever human features bespoke vice of the most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1531
malignant type, they were certainly those of Enoch J. Drebber, of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1532
Cleveland. Still I recognized that justice must be done, and that the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1533
depravity of the victim was no condonment [11] in the eyes of the law.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1534
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1535
The more I thought of it the more extraordinary did my companion's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1536
hypothesis, that the man had been poisoned, appear. I remembered how he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1537
had sniffed his lips, and had no doubt that he had detected something
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1538
which had given rise to the idea. Then, again, if not poison, what
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1539
had caused the man's death, since there was neither wound nor marks of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1540
strangulation? But, on the other hand, whose blood was that which lay so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1541
thickly upon the floor? There were no signs of a struggle, nor had the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1542
victim any weapon with which he might have wounded an antagonist. As
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1543
long as all these questions were unsolved, I felt that sleep would be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1544
no easy matter, either for Holmes or myself. His quiet self-confident
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1545
manner convinced me that he had already formed a theory which explained
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1546
all the facts, though what it was I could not for an instant conjecture.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1547
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1548
He was very late in returning--so late, that I knew that the concert
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1549
could not have detained him all the time. Dinner was on the table before
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1550
he appeared.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1551
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1552
"It was magnificent," he said, as he took his seat. "Do you remember
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1553
what Darwin says about music? He claims that the power of producing and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1554
appreciating it existed among the human race long before the power of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1555
speech was arrived at. Perhaps that is why we are so subtly influenced
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1556
by it. There are vague memories in our souls of those misty centuries
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1557
when the world was in its childhood."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1558
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1559
"That's rather a broad idea," I remarked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1560
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1561
"One's ideas must be as broad as Nature if they are to interpret
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1562
Nature," he answered. "What's the matter? You're not looking quite
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1563
yourself. This Brixton Road affair has upset you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1564
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1565
"To tell the truth, it has," I said. "I ought to be more case-hardened
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1566
after my Afghan experiences. I saw my own comrades hacked to pieces at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1567
Maiwand without losing my nerve."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1568
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1569
"I can understand. There is a mystery about this which stimulates the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1570
imagination; where there is no imagination there is no horror. Have you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1571
seen the evening paper?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1572
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1573
"No."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1574
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1575
"It gives a fairly good account of the affair. It does not mention the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1576
fact that when the man was raised up, a woman's wedding ring fell upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1577
the floor. It is just as well it does not."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1578
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1579
"Why?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1580
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1581
"Look at this advertisement," he answered. "I had one sent to every
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1582
paper this morning immediately after the affair."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1583
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1584
He threw the paper across to me and I glanced at the place indicated. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1585
was the first announcement in the "Found" column. "In Brixton Road,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1586
this morning," it ran, "a plain gold wedding ring, found in the roadway
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1587
between the 'White Hart' Tavern and Holland Grove. Apply Dr. Watson,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1588
221B, Baker Street, between eight and nine this evening."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1589
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1590
"Excuse my using your name," he said. "If I used my own some of these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1591
dunderheads would recognize it, and want to meddle in the affair."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1592
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1593
"That is all right," I answered. "But supposing anyone applies, I have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1594
no ring."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1595
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1596
"Oh yes, you have," said he, handing me one. "This will do very well. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1597
is almost a facsimile."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1598
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1599
"And who do you expect will answer this advertisement."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1600
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1601
"Why, the man in the brown coat--our florid friend with the square toes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1602
If he does not come himself he will send an accomplice."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1603
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1604
"Would he not consider it as too dangerous?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1605
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1606
"Not at all. If my view of the case is correct, and I have every reason
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1607
to believe that it is, this man would rather risk anything than lose the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1608
ring. According to my notion he dropped it while stooping over Drebber's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1609
body, and did not miss it at the time. After leaving the house he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1610
discovered his loss and hurried back, but found the police already in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1611
possession, owing to his own folly in leaving the candle burning. He had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1612
to pretend to be drunk in order to allay the suspicions which might have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1613
been aroused by his appearance at the gate. Now put yourself in that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1614
man's place. On thinking the matter over, it must have occurred to him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1615
that it was possible that he had lost the ring in the road after leaving
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1616
the house. What would he do, then? He would eagerly look out for the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1617
evening papers in the hope of seeing it among the articles found. His
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1618
eye, of course, would light upon this. He would be overjoyed. Why should
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1619
he fear a trap? There would be no reason in his eyes why the finding
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1620
of the ring should be connected with the murder. He would come. He will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1621
come. You shall see him within an hour?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1622
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1623
"And then?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1624
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1625
"Oh, you can leave me to deal with him then. Have you any arms?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1626
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1627
"I have my old service revolver and a few cartridges."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1628
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1629
"You had better clean it and load it. He will be a desperate man,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1630
and though I shall take him unawares, it is as well to be ready for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1631
anything."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1632
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1633
I went to my bedroom and followed his advice. When I returned with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1634
the pistol the table had been cleared, and Holmes was engaged in his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1635
favourite occupation of scraping upon his violin.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1636
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1637
"The plot thickens," he said, as I entered; "I have just had an answer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1638
to my American telegram. My view of the case is the correct one."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1639
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1640
"And that is?" I asked eagerly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1641
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1642
"My fiddle would be the better for new strings," he remarked. "Put your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1643
pistol in your pocket. When the fellow comes speak to him in an ordinary
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1644
way. Leave the rest to me. Don't frighten him by looking at him too
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1645
hard."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1646
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1647
"It is eight o'clock now," I said, glancing at my watch.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1648
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1649
"Yes. He will probably be here in a few minutes. Open the door slightly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1650
That will do. Now put the key on the inside. Thank you! This is a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1651
queer old book I picked up at a stall yesterday--'De Jure inter
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1652
Gentes'--published in Latin at Liege in the Lowlands, in 1642. Charles'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1653
head was still firm on his shoulders when this little brown-backed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1654
volume was struck off."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1655
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1656
"Who is the printer?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1657
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1658
"Philippe de Croy, whoever he may have been. On the fly-leaf, in very
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1659
faded ink, is written 'Ex libris Guliolmi Whyte.' I wonder who William
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1660
Whyte was. Some pragmatical seventeenth century lawyer, I suppose. His
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1661
writing has a legal twist about it. Here comes our man, I think."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1662
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1663
As he spoke there was a sharp ring at the bell. Sherlock Holmes rose
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1664
softly and moved his chair in the direction of the door. We heard the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1665
servant pass along the hall, and the sharp click of the latch as she
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1666
opened it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1667
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1668
"Does Dr. Watson live here?" asked a clear but rather harsh voice. We
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1669
could not hear the servant's reply, but the door closed, and some one
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1670
began to ascend the stairs. The footfall was an uncertain and shuffling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1671
one. A look of surprise passed over the face of my companion as he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1672
listened to it. It came slowly along the passage, and there was a feeble
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1673
tap at the door.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1674
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1675
"Come in," I cried.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1676
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1677
At my summons, instead of the man of violence whom we expected, a very
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1678
old and wrinkled woman hobbled into the apartment. She appeared to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1679
dazzled by the sudden blaze of light, and after dropping a curtsey, she
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1680
stood blinking at us with her bleared eyes and fumbling in her pocket
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1681
with nervous, shaky fingers. I glanced at my companion, and his face
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1682
had assumed such a disconsolate expression that it was all I could do to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1683
keep my countenance.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1684
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1685
The old crone drew out an evening paper, and pointed at our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1686
advertisement. "It's this as has brought me, good gentlemen," she said,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1687
dropping another curtsey; "a gold wedding ring in the Brixton Road. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1688
belongs to my girl Sally, as was married only this time twelvemonth,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1689
which her husband is steward aboard a Union boat, and what he'd say if
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1690
he come 'ome and found her without her ring is more than I can think, he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1691
being short enough at the best o' times, but more especially when he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1692
has the drink. If it please you, she went to the circus last night along
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1693
with----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1694
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1695
"Is that her ring?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1696
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1697
"The Lord be thanked!" cried the old woman; "Sally will be a glad woman
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1698
this night. That's the ring."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1699
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1700
"And what may your address be?" I inquired, taking up a pencil.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1701
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1702
"13, Duncan Street, Houndsditch. A weary way from here."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1703
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1704
"The Brixton Road does not lie between any circus and Houndsditch," said
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1705
Sherlock Holmes sharply.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1706
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1707
The old woman faced round and looked keenly at him from her little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1708
red-rimmed eyes. "The gentleman asked me for _my_ address," she said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1709
"Sally lives in lodgings at 3, Mayfield Place, Peckham."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1710
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1711
"And your name is----?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1712
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1713
"My name is Sawyer--her's is Dennis, which Tom Dennis married her--and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1714
a smart, clean lad, too, as long as he's at sea, and no steward in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1715
company more thought of; but when on shore, what with the women and what
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1716
with liquor shops----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1717
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1718
"Here is your ring, Mrs. Sawyer," I interrupted, in obedience to a sign
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1719
from my companion; "it clearly belongs to your daughter, and I am glad
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1720
to be able to restore it to the rightful owner."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1721
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1722
With many mumbled blessings and protestations of gratitude the old crone
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1723
packed it away in her pocket, and shuffled off down the stairs. Sherlock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1724
Holmes sprang to his feet the moment that she was gone and rushed into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1725
his room. He returned in a few seconds enveloped in an ulster and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1726
a cravat. "I'll follow her," he said, hurriedly; "she must be an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1727
accomplice, and will lead me to him. Wait up for me." The hall door had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1728
hardly slammed behind our visitor before Holmes had descended the stair.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1729
Looking through the window I could see her walking feebly along the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1730
other side, while her pursuer dogged her some little distance behind.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1731
"Either his whole theory is incorrect," I thought to myself, "or else he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1732
will be led now to the heart of the mystery." There was no need for him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1733
to ask me to wait up for him, for I felt that sleep was impossible until
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1734
I heard the result of his adventure.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1735
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1736
It was close upon nine when he set out. I had no idea how long he might
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1737
be, but I sat stolidly puffing at my pipe and skipping over the pages
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1738
of Henri Murger's "Vie de Bohème." Ten o'clock passed, and I heard the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1739
footsteps of the maid as they pattered off to bed. Eleven, and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1740
more stately tread of the landlady passed my door, bound for the same
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1741
destination. It was close upon twelve before I heard the sharp sound of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1742
his latch-key. The instant he entered I saw by his face that he had not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1743
been successful. Amusement and chagrin seemed to be struggling for the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1744
mastery, until the former suddenly carried the day, and he burst into a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1745
hearty laugh.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1746
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1747
"I wouldn't have the Scotland Yarders know it for the world," he cried,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1748
dropping into his chair; "I have chaffed them so much that they would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1749
never have let me hear the end of it. I can afford to laugh, because I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1750
know that I will be even with them in the long run."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1751
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1752
"What is it then?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1753
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1754
"Oh, I don't mind telling a story against myself. That creature had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1755
gone a little way when she began to limp and show every sign of being
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1756
foot-sore. Presently she came to a halt, and hailed a four-wheeler which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1757
was passing. I managed to be close to her so as to hear the address, but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1758
I need not have been so anxious, for she sang it out loud enough to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1759
be heard at the other side of the street, 'Drive to 13, Duncan Street,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1760
Houndsditch,' she cried. This begins to look genuine, I thought, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1761
having seen her safely inside, I perched myself behind. That's an art
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1762
which every detective should be an expert at. Well, away we rattled, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1763
never drew rein until we reached the street in question. I hopped off
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1764
before we came to the door, and strolled down the street in an easy,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1765
lounging way. I saw the cab pull up. The driver jumped down, and I saw
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1766
him open the door and stand expectantly. Nothing came out though. When
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1767
I reached him he was groping about frantically in the empty cab, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1768
giving vent to the finest assorted collection of oaths that ever I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1769
listened to. There was no sign or trace of his passenger, and I fear it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1770
will be some time before he gets his fare. On inquiring at Number 13
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1771
we found that the house belonged to a respectable paperhanger, named
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1772
Keswick, and that no one of the name either of Sawyer or Dennis had ever
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1773
been heard of there."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1774
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1775
"You don't mean to say," I cried, in amazement, "that that tottering,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1776
feeble old woman was able to get out of the cab while it was in motion,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1777
without either you or the driver seeing her?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1778
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1779
"Old woman be damned!" said Sherlock Holmes, sharply. "We were the old
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1780
women to be so taken in. It must have been a young man, and an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1781
active one, too, besides being an incomparable actor. The get-up was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1782
inimitable. He saw that he was followed, no doubt, and used this means
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1783
of giving me the slip. It shows that the man we are after is not as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1784
lonely as I imagined he was, but has friends who are ready to risk
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1785
something for him. Now, Doctor, you are looking done-up. Take my advice
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1786
and turn in."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1787
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1788
I was certainly feeling very weary, so I obeyed his injunction. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1789
left Holmes seated in front of the smouldering fire, and long into the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1790
watches of the night I heard the low, melancholy wailings of his violin,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1791
and knew that he was still pondering over the strange problem which he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1792
had set himself to unravel.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1793
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1794
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1795
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1796
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1797
CHAPTER VI. TOBIAS GREGSON SHOWS WHAT HE CAN DO.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1798
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1799
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1800
THE papers next day were full of the "Brixton Mystery," as they termed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1801
it. Each had a long account of the affair, and some had leaders upon it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1802
in addition. There was some information in them which was new to me. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1803
still retain in my scrap-book numerous clippings and extracts bearing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1804
upon the case. Here is a condensation of a few of them:--
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1805
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1806
The _Daily Telegraph_ remarked that in the history of crime there had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1807
seldom been a tragedy which presented stranger features. The German
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1808
name of the victim, the absence of all other motive, and the sinister
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1809
inscription on the wall, all pointed to its perpetration by political
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1810
refugees and revolutionists. The Socialists had many branches in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1811
America, and the deceased had, no doubt, infringed their unwritten laws,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1812
and been tracked down by them. After alluding airily to the Vehmgericht,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1813
aqua tofana, Carbonari, the Marchioness de Brinvilliers, the Darwinian
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1814
theory, the principles of Malthus, and the Ratcliff Highway murders, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1815
article concluded by admonishing the Government and advocating a closer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1816
watch over foreigners in England.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1817
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1818
The _Standard_ commented upon the fact that lawless outrages of the sort
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1819
usually occurred under a Liberal Administration. They arose from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1820
unsettling of the minds of the masses, and the consequent weakening
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1821
of all authority. The deceased was an American gentleman who had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1822
been residing for some weeks in the Metropolis. He had stayed at the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1823
boarding-house of Madame Charpentier, in Torquay Terrace, Camberwell.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1824
He was accompanied in his travels by his private secretary, Mr. Joseph
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1825
Stangerson. The two bade adieu to their landlady upon Tuesday, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1826
4th inst., and departed to Euston Station with the avowed intention of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1827
catching the Liverpool express. They were afterwards seen together upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1828
the platform. Nothing more is known of them until Mr. Drebber's body
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1829
was, as recorded, discovered in an empty house in the Brixton Road,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1830
many miles from Euston. How he came there, or how he met his fate, are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1831
questions which are still involved in mystery. Nothing is known of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1832
whereabouts of Stangerson. We are glad to learn that Mr. Lestrade and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1833
Mr. Gregson, of Scotland Yard, are both engaged upon the case, and it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1834
is confidently anticipated that these well-known officers will speedily
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1835
throw light upon the matter.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1836
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1837
The _Daily News_ observed that there was no doubt as to the crime being
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1838
a political one. The despotism and hatred of Liberalism which animated
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1839
the Continental Governments had had the effect of driving to our shores
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1840
a number of men who might have made excellent citizens were they not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1841
soured by the recollection of all that they had undergone. Among these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1842
men there was a stringent code of honour, any infringement of which was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1843
punished by death. Every effort should be made to find the secretary,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1844
Stangerson, and to ascertain some particulars of the habits of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1845
deceased. A great step had been gained by the discovery of the address
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1846
of the house at which he had boarded--a result which was entirely due to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1847
the acuteness and energy of Mr. Gregson of Scotland Yard.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1848
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1849
Sherlock Holmes and I read these notices over together at breakfast, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1850
they appeared to afford him considerable amusement.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1851
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1852
"I told you that, whatever happened, Lestrade and Gregson would be sure
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1853
to score."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1854
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1855
"That depends on how it turns out."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1856
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1857
"Oh, bless you, it doesn't matter in the least. If the man is caught, it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1858
will be _on account_ of their exertions; if he escapes, it will be _in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1859
spite_ of their exertions. It's heads I win and tails you lose. Whatever
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1860
they do, they will have followers. 'Un sot trouve toujours un plus sot
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1861
qui l'admire.'"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1862
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1863
"What on earth is this?" I cried, for at this moment there came the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1864
pattering of many steps in the hall and on the stairs, accompanied by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1865
audible expressions of disgust upon the part of our landlady.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1866
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1867
"It's the Baker Street division of the detective police force," said my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1868
companion, gravely; and as he spoke there rushed into the room half a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1869
dozen of the dirtiest and most ragged street Arabs that ever I clapped
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1870
eyes on.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1871
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1872
"'Tention!" cried Holmes, in a sharp tone, and the six dirty little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1873
scoundrels stood in a line like so many disreputable statuettes. "In
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1874
future you shall send up Wiggins alone to report, and the rest of you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1875
must wait in the street. Have you found it, Wiggins?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1876
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1877
"No, sir, we hain't," said one of the youths.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1878
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1879
"I hardly expected you would. You must keep on until you do. Here are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1880
your wages." [13] He handed each of them a shilling.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1881
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1882
"Now, off you go, and come back with a better report next time."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1883
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1884
He waved his hand, and they scampered away downstairs like so many rats,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1885
and we heard their shrill voices next moment in the street.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1886
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1887
"There's more work to be got out of one of those little beggars than
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1888
out of a dozen of the force," Holmes remarked. "The mere sight of an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1889
official-looking person seals men's lips. These youngsters, however, go
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1890
everywhere and hear everything. They are as sharp as needles, too; all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1891
they want is organisation."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1892
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1893
"Is it on this Brixton case that you are employing them?" I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1894
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1895
"Yes; there is a point which I wish to ascertain. It is merely a matter
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1896
of time. Hullo! we are going to hear some news now with a vengeance!
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1897
Here is Gregson coming down the road with beatitude written upon every
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1898
feature of his face. Bound for us, I know. Yes, he is stopping. There he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1899
is!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1900
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1901
There was a violent peal at the bell, and in a few seconds the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1902
fair-haired detective came up the stairs, three steps at a time, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1903
burst into our sitting-room.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1904
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1905
"My dear fellow," he cried, wringing Holmes' unresponsive hand,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1906
"congratulate me! I have made the whole thing as clear as day."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1907
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1908
A shade of anxiety seemed to me to cross my companion's expressive face.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1909
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1910
"Do you mean that you are on the right track?" he asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1911
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1912
"The right track! Why, sir, we have the man under lock and key."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1913
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1914
"And his name is?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1915
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1916
"Arthur Charpentier, sub-lieutenant in Her Majesty's navy," cried
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1917
Gregson, pompously, rubbing his fat hands and inflating his chest.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1918
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1919
Sherlock Holmes gave a sigh of relief, and relaxed into a smile.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1920
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1921
"Take a seat, and try one of these cigars," he said. "We are anxious to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1922
know how you managed it. Will you have some whiskey and water?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1923
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1924
"I don't mind if I do," the detective answered. "The tremendous
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1925
exertions which I have gone through during the last day or two have worn
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1926
me out. Not so much bodily exertion, you understand, as the strain upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1927
the mind. You will appreciate that, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, for we are both
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1928
brain-workers."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1929
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1930
"You do me too much honour," said Holmes, gravely. "Let us hear how you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1931
arrived at this most gratifying result."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1932
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1933
The detective seated himself in the arm-chair, and puffed complacently
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1934
at his cigar. Then suddenly he slapped his thigh in a paroxysm of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1935
amusement.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1936
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1937
"The fun of it is," he cried, "that that fool Lestrade, who thinks
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1938
himself so smart, has gone off upon the wrong track altogether. He is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1939
after the secretary Stangerson, who had no more to do with the crime
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1940
than the babe unborn. I have no doubt that he has caught him by this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1941
time."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1942
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1943
The idea tickled Gregson so much that he laughed until he choked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1944
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1945
"And how did you get your clue?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1946
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1947
"Ah, I'll tell you all about it. Of course, Doctor Watson, this is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1948
strictly between ourselves. The first difficulty which we had to contend
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1949
with was the finding of this American's antecedents. Some people would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1950
have waited until their advertisements were answered, or until parties
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1951
came forward and volunteered information. That is not Tobias Gregson's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1952
way of going to work. You remember the hat beside the dead man?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1953
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1954
"Yes," said Holmes; "by John Underwood and Sons, 129, Camberwell Road."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1955
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1956
Gregson looked quite crest-fallen.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1957
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1958
"I had no idea that you noticed that," he said. "Have you been there?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1959
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1960
"No."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1961
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1962
"Ha!" cried Gregson, in a relieved voice; "you should never neglect a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1963
chance, however small it may seem."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1964
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1965
"To a great mind, nothing is little," remarked Holmes, sententiously.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1966
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1967
"Well, I went to Underwood, and asked him if he had sold a hat of that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1968
size and description. He looked over his books, and came on it at once.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1969
He had sent the hat to a Mr. Drebber, residing at Charpentier's Boarding
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1970
Establishment, Torquay Terrace. Thus I got at his address."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1971
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1972
"Smart--very smart!" murmured Sherlock Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1973
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1974
"I next called upon Madame Charpentier," continued the detective.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1975
"I found her very pale and distressed. Her daughter was in the room,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1976
too--an uncommonly fine girl she is, too; she was looking red about
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1977
the eyes and her lips trembled as I spoke to her. That didn't escape
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1978
my notice. I began to smell a rat. You know the feeling, Mr. Sherlock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1979
Holmes, when you come upon the right scent--a kind of thrill in your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1980
nerves. 'Have you heard of the mysterious death of your late boarder Mr.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1981
Enoch J. Drebber, of Cleveland?' I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1982
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1983
"The mother nodded. She didn't seem able to get out a word. The daughter
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1984
burst into tears. I felt more than ever that these people knew something
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1985
of the matter.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1986
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1987
"'At what o'clock did Mr. Drebber leave your house for the train?' I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1988
asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1989
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1990
"'At eight o'clock,' she said, gulping in her throat to keep down her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1991
agitation. 'His secretary, Mr. Stangerson, said that there were two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1992
trains--one at 9.15 and one at 11. He was to catch the first. [14]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1993
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1994
"'And was that the last which you saw of him?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1995
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1996
"A terrible change came over the woman's face as I asked the question.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1997
Her features turned perfectly livid. It was some seconds before she
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1998
could get out the single word 'Yes'--and when it did come it was in a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  1999
husky unnatural tone.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2000
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2001
"There was silence for a moment, and then the daughter spoke in a calm
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2002
clear voice.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2003
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2004
"'No good can ever come of falsehood, mother,' she said. 'Let us be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2005
frank with this gentleman. We _did_ see Mr. Drebber again.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2006
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2007
"'God forgive you!' cried Madame Charpentier, throwing up her hands and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2008
sinking back in her chair. 'You have murdered your brother.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2009
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2010
"'Arthur would rather that we spoke the truth,' the girl answered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2011
firmly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2012
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2013
"'You had best tell me all about it now,' I said. 'Half-confidences are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2014
worse than none. Besides, you do not know how much we know of it.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2015
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2016
"'On your head be it, Alice!' cried her mother; and then, turning to me,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2017
'I will tell you all, sir. Do not imagine that my agitation on behalf
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2018
of my son arises from any fear lest he should have had a hand in this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2019
terrible affair. He is utterly innocent of it. My dread is, however,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2020
that in your eyes and in the eyes of others he may appear to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2021
compromised. That however is surely impossible. His high character, his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2022
profession, his antecedents would all forbid it.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2023
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2024
"'Your best way is to make a clean breast of the facts,' I answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2025
'Depend upon it, if your son is innocent he will be none the worse.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2026
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2027
"'Perhaps, Alice, you had better leave us together,' she said, and her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2028
daughter withdrew. 'Now, sir,' she continued, 'I had no intention of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2029
telling you all this, but since my poor daughter has disclosed it I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2030
have no alternative. Having once decided to speak, I will tell you all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2031
without omitting any particular.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2032
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2033
"'It is your wisest course,' said I.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2034
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2035
"'Mr. Drebber has been with us nearly three weeks. He and his secretary,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2036
Mr. Stangerson, had been travelling on the Continent. I noticed a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2037
"Copenhagen" label upon each of their trunks, showing that that had been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2038
their last stopping place. Stangerson was a quiet reserved man, but his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2039
employer, I am sorry to say, was far otherwise. He was coarse in his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2040
habits and brutish in his ways. The very night of his arrival he became
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2041
very much the worse for drink, and, indeed, after twelve o'clock in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2042
day he could hardly ever be said to be sober. His manners towards the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2043
maid-servants were disgustingly free and familiar. Worst of all, he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2044
speedily assumed the same attitude towards my daughter, Alice, and spoke
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2045
to her more than once in a way which, fortunately, she is too innocent
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2046
to understand. On one occasion he actually seized her in his arms and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2047
embraced her--an outrage which caused his own secretary to reproach him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2048
for his unmanly conduct.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2049
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2050
"'But why did you stand all this,' I asked. 'I suppose that you can get
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2051
rid of your boarders when you wish.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2052
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2053
"Mrs. Charpentier blushed at my pertinent question. 'Would to God that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2054
I had given him notice on the very day that he came,' she said. 'But
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2055
it was a sore temptation. They were paying a pound a day each--fourteen
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2056
pounds a week, and this is the slack season. I am a widow, and my boy in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2057
the Navy has cost me much. I grudged to lose the money. I acted for the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2058
best. This last was too much, however, and I gave him notice to leave on
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2059
account of it. That was the reason of his going.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2060
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2061
"'Well?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2062
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2063
"'My heart grew light when I saw him drive away. My son is on leave
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2064
just now, but I did not tell him anything of all this, for his temper
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2065
is violent, and he is passionately fond of his sister. When I closed the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2066
door behind them a load seemed to be lifted from my mind. Alas, in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2067
less than an hour there was a ring at the bell, and I learned that Mr.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2068
Drebber had returned. He was much excited, and evidently the worse for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2069
drink. He forced his way into the room, where I was sitting with my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2070
daughter, and made some incoherent remark about having missed his train.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2071
He then turned to Alice, and before my very face, proposed to her that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2072
she should fly with him. "You are of age," he said, "and there is no law
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2073
to stop you. I have money enough and to spare. Never mind the old girl
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2074
here, but come along with me now straight away. You shall live like a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2075
princess." Poor Alice was so frightened that she shrunk away from him,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2076
but he caught her by the wrist and endeavoured to draw her towards the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2077
door. I screamed, and at that moment my son Arthur came into the room.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2078
What happened then I do not know. I heard oaths and the confused sounds
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2079
of a scuffle. I was too terrified to raise my head. When I did look up
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2080
I saw Arthur standing in the doorway laughing, with a stick in his hand.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2081
"I don't think that fine fellow will trouble us again," he said. "I will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2082
just go after him and see what he does with himself." With those words
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2083
he took his hat and started off down the street. The next morning we
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2084
heard of Mr. Drebber's mysterious death.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2085
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2086
"This statement came from Mrs. Charpentier's lips with many gasps and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2087
pauses. At times she spoke so low that I could hardly catch the words. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2088
made shorthand notes of all that she said, however, so that there should
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2089
be no possibility of a mistake."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2090
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2091
"It's quite exciting," said Sherlock Holmes, with a yawn. "What happened
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2092
next?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2093
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2094
"When Mrs. Charpentier paused," the detective continued, "I saw that the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2095
whole case hung upon one point. Fixing her with my eye in a way which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2096
I always found effective with women, I asked her at what hour her son
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2097
returned.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2098
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2099
"'I do not know,' she answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2100
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2101
"'Not know?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2102
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2103
"'No; he has a latch-key, and he let himself in.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2104
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2105
"'After you went to bed?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2106
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2107
"'Yes.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2108
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2109
"'When did you go to bed?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2110
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2111
"'About eleven.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2112
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2113
"'So your son was gone at least two hours?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2114
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2115
"'Yes.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2116
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2117
"'Possibly four or five?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2118
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2119
"'Yes.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2120
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2121
"'What was he doing during that time?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2122
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2123
"'I do not know,' she answered, turning white to her very lips.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2124
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2125
"Of course after that there was nothing more to be done. I found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2126
out where Lieutenant Charpentier was, took two officers with me, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2127
arrested him. When I touched him on the shoulder and warned him to come
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2128
quietly with us, he answered us as bold as brass, 'I suppose you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2129
are arresting me for being concerned in the death of that scoundrel
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2130
Drebber,' he said. We had said nothing to him about it, so that his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2131
alluding to it had a most suspicious aspect."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2132
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2133
"Very," said Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2134
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2135
"He still carried the heavy stick which the mother described him as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2136
having with him when he followed Drebber. It was a stout oak cudgel."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2137
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2138
"What is your theory, then?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2139
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2140
"Well, my theory is that he followed Drebber as far as the Brixton Road.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2141
When there, a fresh altercation arose between them, in the course of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2142
which Drebber received a blow from the stick, in the pit of the stomach,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2143
perhaps, which killed him without leaving any mark. The night was so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2144
wet that no one was about, so Charpentier dragged the body of his victim
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2145
into the empty house. As to the candle, and the blood, and the writing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2146
on the wall, and the ring, they may all be so many tricks to throw the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2147
police on to the wrong scent."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2148
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2149
"Well done!" said Holmes in an encouraging voice. "Really, Gregson, you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2150
are getting along. We shall make something of you yet."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2151
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2152
"I flatter myself that I have managed it rather neatly," the detective
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2153
answered proudly. "The young man volunteered a statement, in which he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2154
said that after following Drebber some time, the latter perceived him,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2155
and took a cab in order to get away from him. On his way home he met an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2156
old shipmate, and took a long walk with him. On being asked where this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2157
old shipmate lived, he was unable to give any satisfactory reply. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2158
think the whole case fits together uncommonly well. What amuses me is to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2159
think of Lestrade, who had started off upon the wrong scent. I am afraid
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2160
he won't make much of [15] Why, by Jove, here's the very man himself!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2161
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2162
It was indeed Lestrade, who had ascended the stairs while we were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2163
talking, and who now entered the room. The assurance and jauntiness
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2164
which generally marked his demeanour and dress were, however, wanting.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2165
His face was disturbed and troubled, while his clothes were disarranged
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2166
and untidy. He had evidently come with the intention of consulting
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2167
with Sherlock Holmes, for on perceiving his colleague he appeared to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2168
embarrassed and put out. He stood in the centre of the room, fumbling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2169
nervously with his hat and uncertain what to do. "This is a most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2170
extraordinary case," he said at last--"a most incomprehensible affair."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2171
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2172
"Ah, you find it so, Mr. Lestrade!" cried Gregson, triumphantly. "I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2173
thought you would come to that conclusion. Have you managed to find the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2174
Secretary, Mr. Joseph Stangerson?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2175
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2176
"The Secretary, Mr. Joseph Stangerson," said Lestrade gravely, "was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2177
murdered at Halliday's Private Hotel about six o'clock this morning."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2178
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2179
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2180
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2181
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2182
CHAPTER VII. LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2183
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2184
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2185
THE intelligence with which Lestrade greeted us was so momentous and so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2186
unexpected, that we were all three fairly dumfoundered. Gregson sprang
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2187
out of his chair and upset the remainder of his whiskey and water. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2188
stared in silence at Sherlock Holmes, whose lips were compressed and his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2189
brows drawn down over his eyes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2190
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2191
"Stangerson too!" he muttered. "The plot thickens."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2192
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2193
"It was quite thick enough before," grumbled Lestrade, taking a chair.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2194
"I seem to have dropped into a sort of council of war."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2195
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2196
"Are you--are you sure of this piece of intelligence?" stammered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2197
Gregson.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2198
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2199
"I have just come from his room," said Lestrade. "I was the first to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2200
discover what had occurred."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2201
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2202
"We have been hearing Gregson's view of the matter," Holmes observed.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2203
"Would you mind letting us know what you have seen and done?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2204
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2205
"I have no objection," Lestrade answered, seating himself. "I freely
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2206
confess that I was of the opinion that Stangerson was concerned in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2207
the death of Drebber. This fresh development has shown me that I was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2208
completely mistaken. Full of the one idea, I set myself to find out
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2209
what had become of the Secretary. They had been seen together at Euston
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2210
Station about half-past eight on the evening of the third. At two in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2211
morning Drebber had been found in the Brixton Road. The question which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2212
confronted me was to find out how Stangerson had been employed between
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2213
8.30 and the time of the crime, and what had become of him afterwards.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2214
I telegraphed to Liverpool, giving a description of the man, and warning
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2215
them to keep a watch upon the American boats. I then set to work calling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2216
upon all the hotels and lodging-houses in the vicinity of Euston. You
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2217
see, I argued that if Drebber and his companion had become separated,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2218
the natural course for the latter would be to put up somewhere in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2219
vicinity for the night, and then to hang about the station again next
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2220
morning."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2221
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2222
"They would be likely to agree on some meeting-place beforehand,"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2223
remarked Holmes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2224
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2225
"So it proved. I spent the whole of yesterday evening in making
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2226
enquiries entirely without avail. This morning I began very early, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2227
at eight o'clock I reached Halliday's Private Hotel, in Little George
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2228
Street. On my enquiry as to whether a Mr. Stangerson was living there,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2229
they at once answered me in the affirmative.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2230
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2231
"'No doubt you are the gentleman whom he was expecting,' they said. 'He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2232
has been waiting for a gentleman for two days.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2233
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2234
"'Where is he now?' I asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2235
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2236
"'He is upstairs in bed. He wished to be called at nine.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2237
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2238
"'I will go up and see him at once,' I said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2239
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2240
"It seemed to me that my sudden appearance might shake his nerves and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2241
lead him to say something unguarded. The Boots volunteered to show me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2242
the room: it was on the second floor, and there was a small corridor
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2243
leading up to it. The Boots pointed out the door to me, and was about to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2244
go downstairs again when I saw something that made me feel sickish, in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2245
spite of my twenty years' experience. From under the door there curled
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2246
a little red ribbon of blood, which had meandered across the passage and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2247
formed a little pool along the skirting at the other side. I gave a cry,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2248
which brought the Boots back. He nearly fainted when he saw it. The door
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2249
was locked on the inside, but we put our shoulders to it, and knocked it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2250
in. The window of the room was open, and beside the window, all huddled
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2251
up, lay the body of a man in his nightdress. He was quite dead, and had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2252
been for some time, for his limbs were rigid and cold. When we turned
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2253
him over, the Boots recognized him at once as being the same gentleman
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2254
who had engaged the room under the name of Joseph Stangerson. The cause
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2255
of death was a deep stab in the left side, which must have penetrated
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2256
the heart. And now comes the strangest part of the affair. What do you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2257
suppose was above the murdered man?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2258
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2259
I felt a creeping of the flesh, and a presentiment of coming horror,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2260
even before Sherlock Holmes answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2261
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2262
"The word RACHE, written in letters of blood," he said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2263
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2264
"That was it," said Lestrade, in an awe-struck voice; and we were all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2265
silent for a while.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2266
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2267
There was something so methodical and so incomprehensible about the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2268
deeds of this unknown assassin, that it imparted a fresh ghastliness to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2269
his crimes. My nerves, which were steady enough on the field of battle
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2270
tingled as I thought of it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2271
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2272
"The man was seen," continued Lestrade. "A milk boy, passing on his way
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2273
to the dairy, happened to walk down the lane which leads from the mews
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2274
at the back of the hotel. He noticed that a ladder, which usually lay
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2275
there, was raised against one of the windows of the second floor, which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2276
was wide open. After passing, he looked back and saw a man descend the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2277
ladder. He came down so quietly and openly that the boy imagined him to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2278
be some carpenter or joiner at work in the hotel. He took no particular
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2279
notice of him, beyond thinking in his own mind that it was early for him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2280
to be at work. He has an impression that the man was tall, had a reddish
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2281
face, and was dressed in a long, brownish coat. He must have stayed in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2282
the room some little time after the murder, for we found blood-stained
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2283
water in the basin, where he had washed his hands, and marks on the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2284
sheets where he had deliberately wiped his knife."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2285
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2286
I glanced at Holmes on hearing the description of the murderer, which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2287
tallied so exactly with his own. There was, however, no trace of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2288
exultation or satisfaction upon his face.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2289
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2290
"Did you find nothing in the room which could furnish a clue to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2291
murderer?" he asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2292
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2293
"Nothing. Stangerson had Drebber's purse in his pocket, but it seems
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2294
that this was usual, as he did all the paying. There was eighty odd
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2295
pounds in it, but nothing had been taken. Whatever the motives of these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2296
extraordinary crimes, robbery is certainly not one of them. There were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2297
no papers or memoranda in the murdered man's pocket, except a single
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2298
telegram, dated from Cleveland about a month ago, and containing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2299
the words, 'J. H. is in Europe.' There was no name appended to this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2300
message."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2301
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2302
"And there was nothing else?" Holmes asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2303
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2304
"Nothing of any importance. The man's novel, with which he had read
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2305
himself to sleep was lying upon the bed, and his pipe was on a chair
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2306
beside him. There was a glass of water on the table, and on the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2307
window-sill a small chip ointment box containing a couple of pills."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2308
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2309
Sherlock Holmes sprang from his chair with an exclamation of delight.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2310
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2311
"The last link," he cried, exultantly. "My case is complete."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2312
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2313
The two detectives stared at him in amazement.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2314
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2315
"I have now in my hands," my companion said, confidently, "all the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2316
threads which have formed such a tangle. There are, of course, details
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2317
to be filled in, but I am as certain of all the main facts, from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2318
time that Drebber parted from Stangerson at the station, up to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2319
discovery of the body of the latter, as if I had seen them with my own
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2320
eyes. I will give you a proof of my knowledge. Could you lay your hand
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2321
upon those pills?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2322
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2323
"I have them," said Lestrade, producing a small white box; "I took them
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2324
and the purse and the telegram, intending to have them put in a place of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2325
safety at the Police Station. It was the merest chance my taking these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2326
pills, for I am bound to say that I do not attach any importance to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2327
them."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2328
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2329
"Give them here," said Holmes. "Now, Doctor," turning to me, "are those
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2330
ordinary pills?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2331
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2332
They certainly were not. They were of a pearly grey colour, small,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2333
round, and almost transparent against the light. "From their lightness
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2334
and transparency, I should imagine that they are soluble in water," I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2335
remarked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2336
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2337
"Precisely so," answered Holmes. "Now would you mind going down and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2338
fetching that poor little devil of a terrier which has been bad so long,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2339
and which the landlady wanted you to put out of its pain yesterday."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2340
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2341
I went downstairs and carried the dog upstair in my arms. It's laboured
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2342
breathing and glazing eye showed that it was not far from its end.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2343
Indeed, its snow-white muzzle proclaimed that it had already exceeded
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2344
the usual term of canine existence. I placed it upon a cushion on the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2345
rug.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2346
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2347
"I will now cut one of these pills in two," said Holmes, and drawing his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2348
penknife he suited the action to the word. "One half we return into the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2349
box for future purposes. The other half I will place in this wine glass,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2350
in which is a teaspoonful of water. You perceive that our friend, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2351
Doctor, is right, and that it readily dissolves."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2352
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2353
"This may be very interesting," said Lestrade, in the injured tone of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2354
one who suspects that he is being laughed at, "I cannot see, however,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2355
what it has to do with the death of Mr. Joseph Stangerson."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2356
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2357
"Patience, my friend, patience! You will find in time that it has
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2358
everything to do with it. I shall now add a little milk to make the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2359
mixture palatable, and on presenting it to the dog we find that he laps
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2360
it up readily enough."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2361
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2362
As he spoke he turned the contents of the wine glass into a saucer and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2363
placed it in front of the terrier, who speedily licked it dry. Sherlock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2364
Holmes' earnest demeanour had so far convinced us that we all sat in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2365
silence, watching the animal intently, and expecting some startling
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2366
effect. None such appeared, however. The dog continued to lie stretched
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2367
upon tho [16] cushion, breathing in a laboured way, but apparently
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2368
neither the better nor the worse for its draught.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2369
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2370
Holmes had taken out his watch, and as minute followed minute without
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2371
result, an expression of the utmost chagrin and disappointment appeared
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2372
upon his features. He gnawed his lip, drummed his fingers upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2373
table, and showed every other symptom of acute impatience. So great
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2374
was his emotion, that I felt sincerely sorry for him, while the two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2375
detectives smiled derisively, by no means displeased at this check which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2376
he had met.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2377
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2378
"It can't be a coincidence," he cried, at last springing from his chair
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2379
and pacing wildly up and down the room; "it is impossible that it should
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2380
be a mere coincidence. The very pills which I suspected in the case of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2381
Drebber are actually found after the death of Stangerson. And yet they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2382
are inert. What can it mean? Surely my whole chain of reasoning cannot
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2383
have been false. It is impossible! And yet this wretched dog is none the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2384
worse. Ah, I have it! I have it!" With a perfect shriek of delight he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2385
rushed to the box, cut the other pill in two, dissolved it, added milk,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2386
and presented it to the terrier. The unfortunate creature's tongue
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2387
seemed hardly to have been moistened in it before it gave a convulsive
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2388
shiver in every limb, and lay as rigid and lifeless as if it had been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2389
struck by lightning.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2390
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2391
Sherlock Holmes drew a long breath, and wiped the perspiration from his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2392
forehead. "I should have more faith," he said; "I ought to know by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2393
this time that when a fact appears to be opposed to a long train of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2394
deductions, it invariably proves to be capable of bearing some other
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2395
interpretation. Of the two pills in that box one was of the most deadly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2396
poison, and the other was entirely harmless. I ought to have known that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2397
before ever I saw the box at all."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2398
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2399
This last statement appeared to me to be so startling, that I could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2400
hardly believe that he was in his sober senses. There was the dead dog,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2401
however, to prove that his conjecture had been correct. It seemed to me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2402
that the mists in my own mind were gradually clearing away, and I began
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2403
to have a dim, vague perception of the truth.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2404
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2405
"All this seems strange to you," continued Holmes, "because you failed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2406
at the beginning of the inquiry to grasp the importance of the single
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2407
real clue which was presented to you. I had the good fortune to seize
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2408
upon that, and everything which has occurred since then has served to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2409
confirm my original supposition, and, indeed, was the logical sequence
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2410
of it. Hence things which have perplexed you and made the case more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2411
obscure, have served to enlighten me and to strengthen my conclusions.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2412
It is a mistake to confound strangeness with mystery. The most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2413
commonplace crime is often the most mysterious because it presents no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2414
new or special features from which deductions may be drawn. This murder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2415
would have been infinitely more difficult to unravel had the body of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2416
the victim been simply found lying in the roadway without any of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2417
those _outré_ and sensational accompaniments which have rendered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2418
it remarkable. These strange details, far from making the case more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2419
difficult, have really had the effect of making it less so."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2420
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2421
Mr. Gregson, who had listened to this address with considerable
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2422
impatience, could contain himself no longer. "Look here, Mr. Sherlock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2423
Holmes," he said, "we are all ready to acknowledge that you are a smart
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2424
man, and that you have your own methods of working. We want something
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2425
more than mere theory and preaching now, though. It is a case of taking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2426
the man. I have made my case out, and it seems I was wrong. Young
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2427
Charpentier could not have been engaged in this second affair. Lestrade
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2428
went after his man, Stangerson, and it appears that he was wrong too.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2429
You have thrown out hints here, and hints there, and seem to know more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2430
than we do, but the time has come when we feel that we have a right to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2431
ask you straight how much you do know of the business. Can you name the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2432
man who did it?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2433
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2434
"I cannot help feeling that Gregson is right, sir," remarked Lestrade.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2435
"We have both tried, and we have both failed. You have remarked more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2436
than once since I have been in the room that you had all the evidence
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2437
which you require. Surely you will not withhold it any longer."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2438
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2439
"Any delay in arresting the assassin," I observed, "might give him time
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2440
to perpetrate some fresh atrocity."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2441
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2442
Thus pressed by us all, Holmes showed signs of irresolution. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2443
continued to walk up and down the room with his head sunk on his chest
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2444
and his brows drawn down, as was his habit when lost in thought.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2445
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2446
"There will be no more murders," he said at last, stopping abruptly and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2447
facing us. "You can put that consideration out of the question. You have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2448
asked me if I know the name of the assassin. I do. The mere knowing of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2449
his name is a small thing, however, compared with the power of laying
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2450
our hands upon him. This I expect very shortly to do. I have good hopes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2451
of managing it through my own arrangements; but it is a thing which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2452
needs delicate handling, for we have a shrewd and desperate man to deal
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2453
with, who is supported, as I have had occasion to prove, by another who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2454
is as clever as himself. As long as this man has no idea that anyone
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2455
can have a clue there is some chance of securing him; but if he had the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2456
slightest suspicion, he would change his name, and vanish in an instant
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2457
among the four million inhabitants of this great city. Without meaning
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2458
to hurt either of your feelings, I am bound to say that I consider these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2459
men to be more than a match for the official force, and that is why I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2460
have not asked your assistance. If I fail I shall, of course, incur all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2461
the blame due to this omission; but that I am prepared for. At present
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2462
I am ready to promise that the instant that I can communicate with you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2463
without endangering my own combinations, I shall do so."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2464
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2465
Gregson and Lestrade seemed to be far from satisfied by this assurance,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2466
or by the depreciating allusion to the detective police. The former had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2467
flushed up to the roots of his flaxen hair, while the other's beady eyes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2468
glistened with curiosity and resentment. Neither of them had time to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2469
speak, however, before there was a tap at the door, and the spokesman
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2470
of the street Arabs, young Wiggins, introduced his insignificant and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2471
unsavoury person.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2472
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2473
"Please, sir," he said, touching his forelock, "I have the cab
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2474
downstairs."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2475
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2476
"Good boy," said Holmes, blandly. "Why don't you introduce this pattern
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2477
at Scotland Yard?" he continued, taking a pair of steel handcuffs from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2478
a drawer. "See how beautifully the spring works. They fasten in an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2479
instant."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2480
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2481
"The old pattern is good enough," remarked Lestrade, "if we can only
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2482
find the man to put them on."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2483
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2484
"Very good, very good," said Holmes, smiling. "The cabman may as well
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2485
help me with my boxes. Just ask him to step up, Wiggins."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2486
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2487
I was surprised to find my companion speaking as though he were about
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2488
to set out on a journey, since he had not said anything to me about it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2489
There was a small portmanteau in the room, and this he pulled out and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2490
began to strap. He was busily engaged at it when the cabman entered the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2491
room.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2492
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2493
"Just give me a help with this buckle, cabman," he said, kneeling over
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2494
his task, and never turning his head.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2495
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2496
The fellow came forward with a somewhat sullen, defiant air, and put
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2497
down his hands to assist. At that instant there was a sharp click, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2498
jangling of metal, and Sherlock Holmes sprang to his feet again.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2499
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2500
"Gentlemen," he cried, with flashing eyes, "let me introduce you to Mr.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2501
Jefferson Hope, the murderer of Enoch Drebber and of Joseph Stangerson."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2502
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2503
The whole thing occurred in a moment--so quickly that I had no time
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2504
to realize it. I have a vivid recollection of that instant, of Holmes'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2505
triumphant expression and the ring of his voice, of the cabman's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2506
dazed, savage face, as he glared at the glittering handcuffs, which had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2507
appeared as if by magic upon his wrists. For a second or two we might
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2508
have been a group of statues. Then, with an inarticulate roar of fury,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2509
the prisoner wrenched himself free from Holmes's grasp, and hurled
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2510
himself through the window. Woodwork and glass gave way before him; but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2511
before he got quite through, Gregson, Lestrade, and Holmes sprang upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2512
him like so many staghounds. He was dragged back into the room, and then
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2513
commenced a terrific conflict. So powerful and so fierce was he, that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2514
the four of us were shaken off again and again. He appeared to have the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2515
convulsive strength of a man in an epileptic fit. His face and hands
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2516
were terribly mangled by his passage through the glass, but loss of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2517
blood had no effect in diminishing his resistance. It was not until
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2518
Lestrade succeeded in getting his hand inside his neckcloth and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2519
half-strangling him that we made him realize that his struggles were of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2520
no avail; and even then we felt no security until we had pinioned his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2521
feet as well as his hands. That done, we rose to our feet breathless and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2522
panting.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2523
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2524
"We have his cab," said Sherlock Holmes. "It will serve to take him to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2525
Scotland Yard. And now, gentlemen," he continued, with a pleasant smile,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2526
"we have reached the end of our little mystery. You are very welcome to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2527
put any questions that you like to me now, and there is no danger that I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2528
will refuse to answer them."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2529
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2530
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2531
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2532
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2533
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2534
PART II. _The Country of the Saints._
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2535
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2536
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2537
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2538
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2539
CHAPTER I. ON THE GREAT ALKALI PLAIN.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2540
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2541
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2542
IN the central portion of the great North American Continent there lies
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2543
an arid and repulsive desert, which for many a long year served as a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2544
barrier against the advance of civilisation. From the Sierra Nevada to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2545
Nebraska, and from the Yellowstone River in the north to the Colorado
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2546
upon the south, is a region of desolation and silence. Nor is Nature
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2547
always in one mood throughout this grim district. It comprises
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2548
snow-capped and lofty mountains, and dark and gloomy valleys. There are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2549
swift-flowing rivers which dash through jagged cañons; and there are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2550
enormous plains, which in winter are white with snow, and in summer are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2551
grey with the saline alkali dust. They all preserve, however, the common
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2552
characteristics of barrenness, inhospitality, and misery.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2553
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2554
There are no inhabitants of this land of despair. A band of Pawnees
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2555
or of Blackfeet may occasionally traverse it in order to reach other
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2556
hunting-grounds, but the hardiest of the braves are glad to lose sight
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2557
of those awesome plains, and to find themselves once more upon their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2558
prairies. The coyote skulks among the scrub, the buzzard flaps heavily
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2559
through the air, and the clumsy grizzly bear lumbers through the dark
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2560
ravines, and picks up such sustenance as it can amongst the rocks. These
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2561
are the sole dwellers in the wilderness.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2562
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2563
In the whole world there can be no more dreary view than that from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2564
the northern slope of the Sierra Blanco. As far as the eye can reach
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2565
stretches the great flat plain-land, all dusted over with patches of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2566
alkali, and intersected by clumps of the dwarfish chaparral bushes. On
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2567
the extreme verge of the horizon lie a long chain of mountain peaks,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2568
with their rugged summits flecked with snow. In this great stretch of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2569
country there is no sign of life, nor of anything appertaining to life.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2570
There is no bird in the steel-blue heaven, no movement upon the dull,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2571
grey earth--above all, there is absolute silence. Listen as one may,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2572
there is no shadow of a sound in all that mighty wilderness; nothing but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2573
silence--complete and heart-subduing silence.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2574
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2575
It has been said there is nothing appertaining to life upon the broad
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2576
plain. That is hardly true. Looking down from the Sierra Blanco, one
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2577
sees a pathway traced out across the desert, which winds away and is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2578
lost in the extreme distance. It is rutted with wheels and trodden down
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2579
by the feet of many adventurers. Here and there there are scattered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2580
white objects which glisten in the sun, and stand out against the dull
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2581
deposit of alkali. Approach, and examine them! They are bones: some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2582
large and coarse, others smaller and more delicate. The former have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2583
belonged to oxen, and the latter to men. For fifteen hundred miles one
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2584
may trace this ghastly caravan route by these scattered remains of those
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2585
who had fallen by the wayside.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2586
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2587
Looking down on this very scene, there stood upon the fourth of May,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2588
eighteen hundred and forty-seven, a solitary traveller. His appearance
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2589
was such that he might have been the very genius or demon of the region.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2590
An observer would have found it difficult to say whether he was nearer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2591
to forty or to sixty. His face was lean and haggard, and the brown
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2592
parchment-like skin was drawn tightly over the projecting bones; his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2593
long, brown hair and beard were all flecked and dashed with white; his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2594
eyes were sunken in his head, and burned with an unnatural lustre; while
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2595
the hand which grasped his rifle was hardly more fleshy than that of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2596
skeleton. As he stood, he leaned upon his weapon for support, and yet
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2597
his tall figure and the massive framework of his bones suggested a wiry
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2598
and vigorous constitution. His gaunt face, however, and his clothes,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2599
which hung so baggily over his shrivelled limbs, proclaimed what it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2600
was that gave him that senile and decrepit appearance. The man was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2601
dying--dying from hunger and from thirst.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2602
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2603
He had toiled painfully down the ravine, and on to this little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2604
elevation, in the vain hope of seeing some signs of water. Now the great
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2605
salt plain stretched before his eyes, and the distant belt of savage
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2606
mountains, without a sign anywhere of plant or tree, which might
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2607
indicate the presence of moisture. In all that broad landscape there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2608
was no gleam of hope. North, and east, and west he looked with wild
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2609
questioning eyes, and then he realised that his wanderings had come to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2610
an end, and that there, on that barren crag, he was about to die. "Why
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2611
not here, as well as in a feather bed, twenty years hence," he muttered,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2612
as he seated himself in the shelter of a boulder.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2613
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2614
Before sitting down, he had deposited upon the ground his useless rifle,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2615
and also a large bundle tied up in a grey shawl, which he had carried
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2616
slung over his right shoulder. It appeared to be somewhat too heavy for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2617
his strength, for in lowering it, it came down on the ground with some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2618
little violence. Instantly there broke from the grey parcel a little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2619
moaning cry, and from it there protruded a small, scared face, with very
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2620
bright brown eyes, and two little speckled, dimpled fists.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2621
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2622
"You've hurt me!" said a childish voice reproachfully.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2623
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2624
"Have I though," the man answered penitently, "I didn't go for to do
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2625
it." As he spoke he unwrapped the grey shawl and extricated a pretty
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2626
little girl of about five years of age, whose dainty shoes and smart
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2627
pink frock with its little linen apron all bespoke a mother's care. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2628
child was pale and wan, but her healthy arms and legs showed that she
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2629
had suffered less than her companion.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2630
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2631
"How is it now?" he answered anxiously, for she was still rubbing the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2632
towsy golden curls which covered the back of her head.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2633
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2634
"Kiss it and make it well," she said, with perfect gravity, shoving
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2635
[19] the injured part up to him. "That's what mother used to do. Where's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2636
mother?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2637
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2638
"Mother's gone. I guess you'll see her before long."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2639
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2640
"Gone, eh!" said the little girl. "Funny, she didn't say good-bye; she
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2641
'most always did if she was just goin' over to Auntie's for tea, and now
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2642
she's been away three days. Say, it's awful dry, ain't it? Ain't there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2643
no water, nor nothing to eat?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2644
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2645
"No, there ain't nothing, dearie. You'll just need to be patient awhile,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2646
and then you'll be all right. Put your head up agin me like that, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2647
then you'll feel bullier. It ain't easy to talk when your lips is like
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2648
leather, but I guess I'd best let you know how the cards lie. What's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2649
that you've got?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2650
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2651
"Pretty things! fine things!" cried the little girl enthusiastically,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2652
holding up two glittering fragments of mica. "When we goes back to home
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2653
I'll give them to brother Bob."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2654
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2655
"You'll see prettier things than them soon," said the man confidently.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2656
"You just wait a bit. I was going to tell you though--you remember when
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2657
we left the river?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2658
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2659
"Oh, yes."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2660
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2661
"Well, we reckoned we'd strike another river soon, d'ye see. But there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2662
was somethin' wrong; compasses, or map, or somethin', and it didn't
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2663
turn up. Water ran out. Just except a little drop for the likes of you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2664
and--and----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2665
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2666
"And you couldn't wash yourself," interrupted his companion gravely,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2667
staring up at his grimy visage.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2668
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2669
"No, nor drink. And Mr. Bender, he was the fust to go, and then Indian
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2670
Pete, and then Mrs. McGregor, and then Johnny Hones, and then, dearie,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2671
your mother."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2672
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2673
"Then mother's a deader too," cried the little girl dropping her face in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2674
her pinafore and sobbing bitterly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2675
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2676
"Yes, they all went except you and me. Then I thought there was some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2677
chance of water in this direction, so I heaved you over my shoulder and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2678
we tramped it together. It don't seem as though we've improved matters.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2679
There's an almighty small chance for us now!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2680
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2681
"Do you mean that we are going to die too?" asked the child, checking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2682
her sobs, and raising her tear-stained face.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2683
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2684
"I guess that's about the size of it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2685
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2686
"Why didn't you say so before?" she said, laughing gleefully. "You gave
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2687
me such a fright. Why, of course, now as long as we die we'll be with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2688
mother again."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2689
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2690
"Yes, you will, dearie."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2691
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2692
"And you too. I'll tell her how awful good you've been. I'll bet she
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2693
meets us at the door of Heaven with a big pitcher of water, and a lot
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2694
of buckwheat cakes, hot, and toasted on both sides, like Bob and me was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2695
fond of. How long will it be first?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2696
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2697
"I don't know--not very long." The man's eyes were fixed upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2698
northern horizon. In the blue vault of the heaven there had appeared
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2699
three little specks which increased in size every moment, so rapidly did
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2700
they approach. They speedily resolved themselves into three large brown
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2701
birds, which circled over the heads of the two wanderers, and then
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2702
settled upon some rocks which overlooked them. They were buzzards, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2703
vultures of the west, whose coming is the forerunner of death.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2704
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2705
"Cocks and hens," cried the little girl gleefully, pointing at their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2706
ill-omened forms, and clapping her hands to make them rise. "Say, did
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2707
God make this country?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2708
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2709
"In course He did," said her companion, rather startled by this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2710
unexpected question.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2711
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2712
"He made the country down in Illinois, and He made the Missouri," the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2713
little girl continued. "I guess somebody else made the country in these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2714
parts. It's not nearly so well done. They forgot the water and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2715
trees."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2716
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2717
"What would ye think of offering up prayer?" the man asked diffidently.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2718
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2719
"It ain't night yet," she answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2720
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2721
"It don't matter. It ain't quite regular, but He won't mind that, you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2722
bet. You say over them ones that you used to say every night in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2723
waggon when we was on the Plains."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2724
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2725
"Why don't you say some yourself?" the child asked, with wondering eyes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2726
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2727
"I disremember them," he answered. "I hain't said none since I was half
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2728
the height o' that gun. I guess it's never too late. You say them out,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2729
and I'll stand by and come in on the choruses."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2730
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2731
"Then you'll need to kneel down, and me too," she said, laying the shawl
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2732
out for that purpose. "You've got to put your hands up like this. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2733
makes you feel kind o' good."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2734
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2735
It was a strange sight had there been anything but the buzzards to see
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2736
it. Side by side on the narrow shawl knelt the two wanderers, the little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2737
prattling child and the reckless, hardened adventurer. Her chubby face,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2738
and his haggard, angular visage were both turned up to the cloudless
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2739
heaven in heartfelt entreaty to that dread being with whom they were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2740
face to face, while the two voices--the one thin and clear, the other
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2741
deep and harsh--united in the entreaty for mercy and forgiveness. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2742
prayer finished, they resumed their seat in the shadow of the boulder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2743
until the child fell asleep, nestling upon the broad breast of her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2744
protector. He watched over her slumber for some time, but Nature proved
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2745
to be too strong for him. For three days and three nights he had allowed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2746
himself neither rest nor repose. Slowly the eyelids drooped over the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2747
tired eyes, and the head sunk lower and lower upon the breast, until the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2748
man's grizzled beard was mixed with the gold tresses of his companion,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2749
and both slept the same deep and dreamless slumber.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2750
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2751
Had the wanderer remained awake for another half hour a strange sight
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2752
would have met his eyes. Far away on the extreme verge of the alkali
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2753
plain there rose up a little spray of dust, very slight at first, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2754
hardly to be distinguished from the mists of the distance, but gradually
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2755
growing higher and broader until it formed a solid, well-defined cloud.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2756
This cloud continued to increase in size until it became evident that it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2757
could only be raised by a great multitude of moving creatures. In more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2758
fertile spots the observer would have come to the conclusion that one
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2759
of those great herds of bisons which graze upon the prairie land was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2760
approaching him. This was obviously impossible in these arid wilds. As
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2761
the whirl of dust drew nearer to the solitary bluff upon which the two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2762
castaways were reposing, the canvas-covered tilts of waggons and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2763
figures of armed horsemen began to show up through the haze, and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2764
apparition revealed itself as being a great caravan upon its journey for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2765
the West. But what a caravan! When the head of it had reached the base
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2766
of the mountains, the rear was not yet visible on the horizon. Right
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2767
across the enormous plain stretched the straggling array, waggons
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2768
and carts, men on horseback, and men on foot. Innumerable women who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2769
staggered along under burdens, and children who toddled beside the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2770
waggons or peeped out from under the white coverings. This was evidently
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2771
no ordinary party of immigrants, but rather some nomad people who had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2772
been compelled from stress of circumstances to seek themselves a new
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2773
country. There rose through the clear air a confused clattering and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2774
rumbling from this great mass of humanity, with the creaking of wheels
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2775
and the neighing of horses. Loud as it was, it was not sufficient to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2776
rouse the two tired wayfarers above them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2777
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2778
At the head of the column there rode a score or more of grave ironfaced
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2779
men, clad in sombre homespun garments and armed with rifles. On reaching
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2780
the base of the bluff they halted, and held a short council among
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2781
themselves.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2782
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2783
"The wells are to the right, my brothers," said one, a hard-lipped,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2784
clean-shaven man with grizzly hair.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2785
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2786
"To the right of the Sierra Blanco--so we shall reach the Rio Grande,"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2787
said another.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2788
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2789
"Fear not for water," cried a third. "He who could draw it from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2790
rocks will not now abandon His own chosen people."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2791
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2792
"Amen! Amen!" responded the whole party.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2793
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2794
They were about to resume their journey when one of the youngest and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2795
keenest-eyed uttered an exclamation and pointed up at the rugged crag
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2796
above them. From its summit there fluttered a little wisp of pink,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2797
showing up hard and bright against the grey rocks behind. At the sight
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2798
there was a general reining up of horses and unslinging of guns, while
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2799
fresh horsemen came galloping up to reinforce the vanguard. The word
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2800
'Redskins' was on every lip.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2801
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2802
"There can't be any number of Injuns here," said the elderly man who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2803
appeared to be in command. "We have passed the Pawnees, and there are no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2804
other tribes until we cross the great mountains."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2805
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2806
"Shall I go forward and see, Brother Stangerson," asked one of the band.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2807
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2808
"And I," "and I," cried a dozen voices.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2809
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2810
"Leave your horses below and we will await you here," the Elder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2811
answered. In a moment the young fellows had dismounted, fastened their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2812
horses, and were ascending the precipitous slope which led up to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2813
object which had excited their curiosity. They advanced rapidly and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2814
noiselessly, with the confidence and dexterity of practised scouts.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2815
The watchers from the plain below could see them flit from rock to rock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2816
until their figures stood out against the skyline. The young man who had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2817
first given the alarm was leading them. Suddenly his followers saw him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2818
throw up his hands, as though overcome with astonishment, and on joining
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2819
him they were affected in the same way by the sight which met their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2820
eyes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2821
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2822
On the little plateau which crowned the barren hill there stood a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2823
single giant boulder, and against this boulder there lay a tall man,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2824
long-bearded and hard-featured, but of an excessive thinness. His placid
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2825
face and regular breathing showed that he was fast asleep. Beside him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2826
lay a little child, with her round white arms encircling his brown
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2827
sinewy neck, and her golden haired head resting upon the breast of his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2828
velveteen tunic. Her rosy lips were parted, showing the regular line of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2829
snow-white teeth within, and a playful smile played over her infantile
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2830
features. Her plump little white legs terminating in white socks and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2831
neat shoes with shining buckles, offered a strange contrast to the long
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2832
shrivelled members of her companion. On the ledge of rock above this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2833
strange couple there stood three solemn buzzards, who, at the sight of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2834
the new comers uttered raucous screams of disappointment and flapped
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2835
sullenly away.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2836
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2837
The cries of the foul birds awoke the two sleepers who stared about [20]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2838
them in bewilderment. The man staggered to his feet and looked down upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2839
the plain which had been so desolate when sleep had overtaken him, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2840
which was now traversed by this enormous body of men and of beasts. His
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2841
face assumed an expression of incredulity as he gazed, and he passed his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2842
boney hand over his eyes. "This is what they call delirium, I guess,"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2843
he muttered. The child stood beside him, holding on to the skirt of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2844
his coat, and said nothing but looked all round her with the wondering
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2845
questioning gaze of childhood.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2846
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2847
The rescuing party were speedily able to convince the two castaways that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2848
their appearance was no delusion. One of them seized the little girl,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2849
and hoisted her upon his shoulder, while two others supported her gaunt
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2850
companion, and assisted him towards the waggons.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2851
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2852
"My name is John Ferrier," the wanderer explained; "me and that little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2853
un are all that's left o' twenty-one people. The rest is all dead o'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2854
thirst and hunger away down in the south."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2855
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2856
"Is she your child?" asked someone.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2857
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2858
"I guess she is now," the other cried, defiantly; "she's mine 'cause I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2859
saved her. No man will take her from me. She's Lucy Ferrier from this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2860
day on. Who are you, though?" he continued, glancing with curiosity at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2861
his stalwart, sunburned rescuers; "there seems to be a powerful lot of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2862
ye."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2863
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2864
"Nigh upon ten thousand," said one of the young men; "we are the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2865
persecuted children of God--the chosen of the Angel Merona."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2866
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2867
"I never heard tell on him," said the wanderer. "He appears to have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2868
chosen a fair crowd of ye."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2869
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2870
"Do not jest at that which is sacred," said the other sternly. "We are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2871
of those who believe in those sacred writings, drawn in Egyptian letters
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2872
on plates of beaten gold, which were handed unto the holy Joseph Smith
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2873
at Palmyra. We have come from Nauvoo, in the State of Illinois, where we
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2874
had founded our temple. We have come to seek a refuge from the violent
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2875
man and from the godless, even though it be the heart of the desert."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2876
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2877
The name of Nauvoo evidently recalled recollections to John Ferrier. "I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2878
see," he said, "you are the Mormons."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2879
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2880
"We are the Mormons," answered his companions with one voice.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2881
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2882
"And where are you going?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2883
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2884
"We do not know. The hand of God is leading us under the person of our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2885
Prophet. You must come before him. He shall say what is to be done with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2886
you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2887
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2888
They had reached the base of the hill by this time, and were surrounded
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2889
by crowds of the pilgrims--pale-faced meek-looking women, strong
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2890
laughing children, and anxious earnest-eyed men. Many were the cries
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2891
of astonishment and of commiseration which arose from them when they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2892
perceived the youth of one of the strangers and the destitution of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2893
other. Their escort did not halt, however, but pushed on, followed by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2894
a great crowd of Mormons, until they reached a waggon, which was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2895
conspicuous for its great size and for the gaudiness and smartness of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2896
its appearance. Six horses were yoked to it, whereas the others were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2897
furnished with two, or, at most, four a-piece. Beside the driver there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2898
sat a man who could not have been more than thirty years of age, but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2899
whose massive head and resolute expression marked him as a leader. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2900
was reading a brown-backed volume, but as the crowd approached he laid
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2901
it aside, and listened attentively to an account of the episode. Then he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2902
turned to the two castaways.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2903
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2904
"If we take you with us," he said, in solemn words, "it can only be as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2905
believers in our own creed. We shall have no wolves in our fold. Better
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2906
far that your bones should bleach in this wilderness than that you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2907
should prove to be that little speck of decay which in time corrupts the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2908
whole fruit. Will you come with us on these terms?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2909
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2910
"Guess I'll come with you on any terms," said Ferrier, with such
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2911
emphasis that the grave Elders could not restrain a smile. The leader
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2912
alone retained his stern, impressive expression.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2913
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2914
"Take him, Brother Stangerson," he said, "give him food and drink,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2915
and the child likewise. Let it be your task also to teach him our holy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2916
creed. We have delayed long enough. Forward! On, on to Zion!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2917
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2918
"On, on to Zion!" cried the crowd of Mormons, and the words rippled down
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2919
the long caravan, passing from mouth to mouth until they died away in a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2920
dull murmur in the far distance. With a cracking of whips and a creaking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2921
of wheels the great waggons got into motion, and soon the whole caravan
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2922
was winding along once more. The Elder to whose care the two waifs
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2923
had been committed, led them to his waggon, where a meal was already
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2924
awaiting them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2925
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2926
"You shall remain here," he said. "In a few days you will have recovered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2927
from your fatigues. In the meantime, remember that now and for ever you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2928
are of our religion. Brigham Young has said it, and he has spoken with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2929
the voice of Joseph Smith, which is the voice of God."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2930
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2931
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2932
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2933
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2934
CHAPTER II. THE FLOWER OF UTAH.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2935
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2936
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2937
THIS is not the place to commemorate the trials and privations endured
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2938
by the immigrant Mormons before they came to their final haven. From the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2939
shores of the Mississippi to the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2940
they had struggled on with a constancy almost unparalleled in history.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2941
The savage man, and the savage beast, hunger, thirst, fatigue, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2942
disease--every impediment which Nature could place in the way, had all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2943
been overcome with Anglo-Saxon tenacity. Yet the long journey and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2944
accumulated terrors had shaken the hearts of the stoutest among them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2945
There was not one who did not sink upon his knees in heartfelt prayer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2946
when they saw the broad valley of Utah bathed in the sunlight beneath
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2947
them, and learned from the lips of their leader that this was the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2948
promised land, and that these virgin acres were to be theirs for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2949
evermore.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2950
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2951
Young speedily proved himself to be a skilful administrator as well as a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2952
resolute chief. Maps were drawn and charts prepared, in which the future
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2953
city was sketched out. All around farms were apportioned and allotted in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2954
proportion to the standing of each individual. The tradesman was put
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2955
to his trade and the artisan to his calling. In the town streets and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2956
squares sprang up, as if by magic. In the country there was draining
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2957
and hedging, planting and clearing, until the next summer saw the whole
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2958
country golden with the wheat crop. Everything prospered in the strange
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2959
settlement. Above all, the great temple which they had erected in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2960
centre of the city grew ever taller and larger. From the first blush of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2961
dawn until the closing of the twilight, the clatter of the hammer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2962
and the rasp of the saw was never absent from the monument which the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2963
immigrants erected to Him who had led them safe through many dangers.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2964
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2965
The two castaways, John Ferrier and the little girl who had shared his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2966
fortunes and had been adopted as his daughter, accompanied the Mormons
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2967
to the end of their great pilgrimage. Little Lucy Ferrier was borne
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2968
along pleasantly enough in Elder Stangerson's waggon, a retreat which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2969
she shared with the Mormon's three wives and with his son, a headstrong
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2970
forward boy of twelve. Having rallied, with the elasticity of childhood,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2971
from the shock caused by her mother's death, she soon became a pet
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2972
with the women, and reconciled herself to this new life in her moving
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2973
canvas-covered home. In the meantime Ferrier having recovered from his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2974
privations, distinguished himself as a useful guide and an indefatigable
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2975
hunter. So rapidly did he gain the esteem of his new companions, that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2976
when they reached the end of their wanderings, it was unanimously agreed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2977
that he should be provided with as large and as fertile a tract of land
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2978
as any of the settlers, with the exception of Young himself, and of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2979
Stangerson, Kemball, Johnston, and Drebber, who were the four principal
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2980
Elders.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2981
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2982
On the farm thus acquired John Ferrier built himself a substantial
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2983
log-house, which received so many additions in succeeding years that it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2984
grew into a roomy villa. He was a man of a practical turn of mind,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2985
keen in his dealings and skilful with his hands. His iron constitution
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2986
enabled him to work morning and evening at improving and tilling his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2987
lands. Hence it came about that his farm and all that belonged to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2988
him prospered exceedingly. In three years he was better off than his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2989
neighbours, in six he was well-to-do, in nine he was rich, and in twelve
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2990
there were not half a dozen men in the whole of Salt Lake City who could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2991
compare with him. From the great inland sea to the distant Wahsatch
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2992
Mountains there was no name better known than that of John Ferrier.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2993
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2994
There was one way and only one in which he offended the susceptibilities
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2995
of his co-religionists. No argument or persuasion could ever induce him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2996
to set up a female establishment after the manner of his companions. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2997
never gave reasons for this persistent refusal, but contented himself by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2998
resolutely and inflexibly adhering to his determination. There were some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  2999
who accused him of lukewarmness in his adopted religion, and others who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3000
put it down to greed of wealth and reluctance to incur expense. Others,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3001
again, spoke of some early love affair, and of a fair-haired girl who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3002
had pined away on the shores of the Atlantic. Whatever the reason,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3003
Ferrier remained strictly celibate. In every other respect he conformed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3004
to the religion of the young settlement, and gained the name of being an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3005
orthodox and straight-walking man.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3006
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3007
Lucy Ferrier grew up within the log-house, and assisted her adopted
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3008
father in all his undertakings. The keen air of the mountains and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3009
balsamic odour of the pine trees took the place of nurse and mother to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3010
the young girl. As year succeeded to year she grew taller and stronger,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3011
her cheek more rudy, and her step more elastic. Many a wayfarer upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3012
the high road which ran by Ferrier's farm felt long-forgotten thoughts
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3013
revive in their mind as they watched her lithe girlish figure tripping
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3014
through the wheatfields, or met her mounted upon her father's mustang,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3015
and managing it with all the ease and grace of a true child of the West.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3016
So the bud blossomed into a flower, and the year which saw her father
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3017
the richest of the farmers left her as fair a specimen of American
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3018
girlhood as could be found in the whole Pacific slope.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3019
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3020
It was not the father, however, who first discovered that the child had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3021
developed into the woman. It seldom is in such cases. That mysterious
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3022
change is too subtle and too gradual to be measured by dates. Least of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3023
all does the maiden herself know it until the tone of a voice or the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3024
touch of a hand sets her heart thrilling within her, and she learns,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3025
with a mixture of pride and of fear, that a new and a larger nature has
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3026
awoken within her. There are few who cannot recall that day and remember
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3027
the one little incident which heralded the dawn of a new life. In the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3028
case of Lucy Ferrier the occasion was serious enough in itself, apart
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3029
from its future influence on her destiny and that of many besides.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3030
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3031
It was a warm June morning, and the Latter Day Saints were as busy as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3032
the bees whose hive they have chosen for their emblem. In the fields and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3033
in the streets rose the same hum of human industry. Down the dusty high
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3034
roads defiled long streams of heavily-laden mules, all heading to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3035
west, for the gold fever had broken out in California, and the Overland
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3036
Route lay through the City of the Elect. There, too, were droves of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3037
sheep and bullocks coming in from the outlying pasture lands, and trains
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3038
of tired immigrants, men and horses equally weary of their interminable
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3039
journey. Through all this motley assemblage, threading her way with the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3040
skill of an accomplished rider, there galloped Lucy Ferrier, her fair
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3041
face flushed with the exercise and her long chestnut hair floating out
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3042
behind her. She had a commission from her father in the City, and was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3043
dashing in as she had done many a time before, with all the fearlessness
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3044
of youth, thinking only of her task and how it was to be performed. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3045
travel-stained adventurers gazed after her in astonishment, and even
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3046
the unemotional Indians, journeying in with their pelties, relaxed their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3047
accustomed stoicism as they marvelled at the beauty of the pale-faced
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3048
maiden.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3049
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3050
She had reached the outskirts of the city when she found the road
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3051
blocked by a great drove of cattle, driven by a half-dozen wild-looking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3052
herdsmen from the plains. In her impatience she endeavoured to pass this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3053
obstacle by pushing her horse into what appeared to be a gap. Scarcely
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3054
had she got fairly into it, however, before the beasts closed in behind
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3055
her, and she found herself completely imbedded in the moving stream of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3056
fierce-eyed, long-horned bullocks. Accustomed as she was to deal with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3057
cattle, she was not alarmed at her situation, but took advantage of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3058
every opportunity to urge her horse on in the hopes of pushing her way
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3059
through the cavalcade. Unfortunately the horns of one of the creatures,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3060
either by accident or design, came in violent contact with the flank of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3061
the mustang, and excited it to madness. In an instant it reared up upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3062
its hind legs with a snort of rage, and pranced and tossed in a way that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3063
would have unseated any but a most skilful rider. The situation was full
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3064
of peril. Every plunge of the excited horse brought it against the horns
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3065
again, and goaded it to fresh madness. It was all that the girl could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3066
do to keep herself in the saddle, yet a slip would mean a terrible death
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3067
under the hoofs of the unwieldy and terrified animals. Unaccustomed to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3068
sudden emergencies, her head began to swim, and her grip upon the bridle
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3069
to relax. Choked by the rising cloud of dust and by the steam from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3070
struggling creatures, she might have abandoned her efforts in despair,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3071
but for a kindly voice at her elbow which assured her of assistance. At
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3072
the same moment a sinewy brown hand caught the frightened horse by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3073
the curb, and forcing a way through the drove, soon brought her to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3074
outskirts.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3075
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3076
"You're not hurt, I hope, miss," said her preserver, respectfully.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3077
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3078
She looked up at his dark, fierce face, and laughed saucily. "I'm awful
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3079
frightened," she said, naively; "whoever would have thought that Poncho
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3080
would have been so scared by a lot of cows?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3081
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3082
"Thank God you kept your seat," the other said earnestly. He was a tall,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3083
savage-looking young fellow, mounted on a powerful roan horse, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3084
clad in the rough dress of a hunter, with a long rifle slung over his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3085
shoulders. "I guess you are the daughter of John Ferrier," he remarked,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3086
"I saw you ride down from his house. When you see him, ask him if he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3087
remembers the Jefferson Hopes of St. Louis. If he's the same Ferrier, my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3088
father and he were pretty thick."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3089
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3090
"Hadn't you better come and ask yourself?" she asked, demurely.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3091
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3092
The young fellow seemed pleased at the suggestion, and his dark eyes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3093
sparkled with pleasure. "I'll do so," he said, "we've been in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3094
mountains for two months, and are not over and above in visiting
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3095
condition. He must take us as he finds us."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3096
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3097
"He has a good deal to thank you for, and so have I," she answered,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3098
"he's awful fond of me. If those cows had jumped on me he'd have never
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3099
got over it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3100
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3101
"Neither would I," said her companion.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3102
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3103
"You! Well, I don't see that it would make much matter to you, anyhow.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3104
You ain't even a friend of ours."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3105
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3106
The young hunter's dark face grew so gloomy over this remark that Lucy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3107
Ferrier laughed aloud.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3108
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3109
"There, I didn't mean that," she said; "of course, you are a friend now.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3110
You must come and see us. Now I must push along, or father won't trust
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3111
me with his business any more. Good-bye!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3112
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3113
"Good-bye," he answered, raising his broad sombrero, and bending over
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3114
her little hand. She wheeled her mustang round, gave it a cut with her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3115
riding-whip, and darted away down the broad road in a rolling cloud of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3116
dust.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3117
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3118
Young Jefferson Hope rode on with his companions, gloomy and taciturn.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3119
He and they had been among the Nevada Mountains prospecting for silver,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3120
and were returning to Salt Lake City in the hope of raising capital
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3121
enough to work some lodes which they had discovered. He had been as keen
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3122
as any of them upon the business until this sudden incident had drawn
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3123
his thoughts into another channel. The sight of the fair young girl,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3124
as frank and wholesome as the Sierra breezes, had stirred his volcanic,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3125
untamed heart to its very depths. When she had vanished from his sight,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3126
he realized that a crisis had come in his life, and that neither silver
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3127
speculations nor any other questions could ever be of such importance to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3128
him as this new and all-absorbing one. The love which had sprung up in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3129
his heart was not the sudden, changeable fancy of a boy, but rather the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3130
wild, fierce passion of a man of strong will and imperious temper. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3131
had been accustomed to succeed in all that he undertook. He swore in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3132
his heart that he would not fail in this if human effort and human
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3133
perseverance could render him successful.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3134
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3135
He called on John Ferrier that night, and many times again, until
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3136
his face was a familiar one at the farm-house. John, cooped up in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3137
valley, and absorbed in his work, had had little chance of learning
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3138
the news of the outside world during the last twelve years. All this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3139
Jefferson Hope was able to tell him, and in a style which interested
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3140
Lucy as well as her father. He had been a pioneer in California, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3141
could narrate many a strange tale of fortunes made and fortunes lost
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3142
in those wild, halcyon days. He had been a scout too, and a trapper, a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3143
silver explorer, and a ranchman. Wherever stirring adventures were to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3144
had, Jefferson Hope had been there in search of them. He soon became a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3145
favourite with the old farmer, who spoke eloquently of his virtues. On
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3146
such occasions, Lucy was silent, but her blushing cheek and her bright,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3147
happy eyes, showed only too clearly that her young heart was no longer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3148
her own. Her honest father may not have observed these symptoms,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3149
but they were assuredly not thrown away upon the man who had won her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3150
affections.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3151
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3152
It was a summer evening when he came galloping down the road and pulled
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3153
up at the gate. She was at the doorway, and came down to meet him. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3154
threw the bridle over the fence and strode up the pathway.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3155
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3156
"I am off, Lucy," he said, taking her two hands in his, and gazing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3157
tenderly down into her face; "I won't ask you to come with me now, but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3158
will you be ready to come when I am here again?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3159
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3160
"And when will that be?" she asked, blushing and laughing.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3161
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3162
"A couple of months at the outside. I will come and claim you then, my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3163
darling. There's no one who can stand between us."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3164
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3165
"And how about father?" she asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3166
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3167
"He has given his consent, provided we get these mines working all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3168
right. I have no fear on that head."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3169
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3170
"Oh, well; of course, if you and father have arranged it all, there's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3171
no more to be said," she whispered, with her cheek against his broad
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3172
breast.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3173
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3174
"Thank God!" he said, hoarsely, stooping and kissing her. "It is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3175
settled, then. The longer I stay, the harder it will be to go. They are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3176
waiting for me at the cañon. Good-bye, my own darling--good-bye. In two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3177
months you shall see me."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3178
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3179
He tore himself from her as he spoke, and, flinging himself upon his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3180
horse, galloped furiously away, never even looking round, as though
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3181
afraid that his resolution might fail him if he took one glance at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3182
what he was leaving. She stood at the gate, gazing after him until
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3183
he vanished from her sight. Then she walked back into the house, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3184
happiest girl in all Utah.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3185
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3186
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3187
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3188
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3189
CHAPTER III. JOHN FERRIER TALKS WITH THE PROPHET.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3190
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3191
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3192
THREE weeks had passed since Jefferson Hope and his comrades had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3193
departed from Salt Lake City. John Ferrier's heart was sore within him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3194
when he thought of the young man's return, and of the impending loss of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3195
his adopted child. Yet her bright and happy face reconciled him to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3196
the arrangement more than any argument could have done. He had always
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3197
determined, deep down in his resolute heart, that nothing would ever
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3198
induce him to allow his daughter to wed a Mormon. Such a marriage he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3199
regarded as no marriage at all, but as a shame and a disgrace. Whatever
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3200
he might think of the Mormon doctrines, upon that one point he was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3201
inflexible. He had to seal his mouth on the subject, however, for to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3202
express an unorthodox opinion was a dangerous matter in those days in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3203
the Land of the Saints.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3204
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3205
Yes, a dangerous matter--so dangerous that even the most saintly dared
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3206
only whisper their religious opinions with bated breath, lest something
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3207
which fell from their lips might be misconstrued, and bring down a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3208
swift retribution upon them. The victims of persecution had now turned
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3209
persecutors on their own account, and persecutors of the most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3210
terrible description. Not the Inquisition of Seville, nor the German
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3211
Vehm-gericht, nor the Secret Societies of Italy, were ever able to put
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3212
a more formidable machinery in motion than that which cast a cloud over
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3213
the State of Utah.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3214
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3215
Its invisibility, and the mystery which was attached to it, made
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3216
this organization doubly terrible. It appeared to be omniscient and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3217
omnipotent, and yet was neither seen nor heard. The man who held out
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3218
against the Church vanished away, and none knew whither he had gone or
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3219
what had befallen him. His wife and his children awaited him at home,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3220
but no father ever returned to tell them how he had fared at the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3221
hands of his secret judges. A rash word or a hasty act was followed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3222
by annihilation, and yet none knew what the nature might be of this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3223
terrible power which was suspended over them. No wonder that men
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3224
went about in fear and trembling, and that even in the heart of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3225
wilderness they dared not whisper the doubts which oppressed them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3226
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3227
At first this vague and terrible power was exercised only upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3228
recalcitrants who, having embraced the Mormon faith, wished afterwards
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3229
to pervert or to abandon it. Soon, however, it took a wider range. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3230
supply of adult women was running short, and polygamy without a female
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3231
population on which to draw was a barren doctrine indeed. Strange
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3232
rumours began to be bandied about--rumours of murdered immigrants and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3233
rifled camps in regions where Indians had never been seen. Fresh women
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3234
appeared in the harems of the Elders--women who pined and wept, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3235
bore upon their faces the traces of an unextinguishable horror. Belated
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3236
wanderers upon the mountains spoke of gangs of armed men, masked,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3237
stealthy, and noiseless, who flitted by them in the darkness. These
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3238
tales and rumours took substance and shape, and were corroborated and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3239
re-corroborated, until they resolved themselves into a definite name.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3240
To this day, in the lonely ranches of the West, the name of the Danite
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3241
Band, or the Avenging Angels, is a sinister and an ill-omened one.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3242
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3243
Fuller knowledge of the organization which produced such terrible
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3244
results served to increase rather than to lessen the horror which it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3245
inspired in the minds of men. None knew who belonged to this ruthless
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3246
society. The names of the participators in the deeds of blood and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3247
violence done under the name of religion were kept profoundly secret.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3248
The very friend to whom you communicated your misgivings as to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3249
Prophet and his mission, might be one of those who would come forth at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3250
night with fire and sword to exact a terrible reparation. Hence every
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3251
man feared his neighbour, and none spoke of the things which were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3252
nearest his heart.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3253
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3254
One fine morning, John Ferrier was about to set out to his wheatfields,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3255
when he heard the click of the latch, and, looking through the window,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3256
saw a stout, sandy-haired, middle-aged man coming up the pathway. His
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3257
heart leapt to his mouth, for this was none other than the great Brigham
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3258
Young himself. Full of trepidation--for he knew that such a visit boded
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3259
him little good--Ferrier ran to the door to greet the Mormon chief. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3260
latter, however, received his salutations coldly, and followed him with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3261
a stern face into the sitting-room.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3262
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3263
"Brother Ferrier," he said, taking a seat, and eyeing the farmer keenly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3264
from under his light-coloured eyelashes, "the true believers have been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3265
good friends to you. We picked you up when you were starving in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3266
desert, we shared our food with you, led you safe to the Chosen Valley,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3267
gave you a goodly share of land, and allowed you to wax rich under our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3268
protection. Is not this so?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3269
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3270
"It is so," answered John Ferrier.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3271
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3272
"In return for all this we asked but one condition: that was, that you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3273
should embrace the true faith, and conform in every way to its usages.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3274
This you promised to do, and this, if common report says truly, you have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3275
neglected."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3276
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3277
"And how have I neglected it?" asked Ferrier, throwing out his hands in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3278
expostulation. "Have I not given to the common fund? Have I not attended
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3279
at the Temple? Have I not----?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3280
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3281
"Where are your wives?" asked Young, looking round him. "Call them in,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3282
that I may greet them."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3283
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3284
"It is true that I have not married," Ferrier answered. "But women
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3285
were few, and there were many who had better claims than I. I was not a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3286
lonely man: I had my daughter to attend to my wants."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3287
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3288
"It is of that daughter that I would speak to you," said the leader
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3289
of the Mormons. "She has grown to be the flower of Utah, and has found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3290
favour in the eyes of many who are high in the land."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3291
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3292
John Ferrier groaned internally.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3293
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3294
"There are stories of her which I would fain disbelieve--stories that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3295
she is sealed to some Gentile. This must be the gossip of idle tongues.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3296
What is the thirteenth rule in the code of the sainted Joseph Smith?
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3297
'Let every maiden of the true faith marry one of the elect; for if
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3298
she wed a Gentile, she commits a grievous sin.' This being so, it is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3299
impossible that you, who profess the holy creed, should suffer your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3300
daughter to violate it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3301
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3302
John Ferrier made no answer, but he played nervously with his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3303
riding-whip.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3304
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3305
"Upon this one point your whole faith shall be tested--so it has been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3306
decided in the Sacred Council of Four. The girl is young, and we would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3307
not have her wed grey hairs, neither would we deprive her of all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3308
choice. We Elders have many heifers, [29] but our children must also
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3309
be provided. Stangerson has a son, and Drebber has a son, and either of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3310
them would gladly welcome your daughter to their house. Let her choose
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3311
between them. They are young and rich, and of the true faith. What say
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3312
you to that?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3313
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3314
Ferrier remained silent for some little time with his brows knitted.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3315
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3316
"You will give us time," he said at last. "My daughter is very
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3317
young--she is scarce of an age to marry."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3318
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3319
"She shall have a month to choose," said Young, rising from his seat.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3320
"At the end of that time she shall give her answer."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3321
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3322
He was passing through the door, when he turned, with flushed face and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3323
flashing eyes. "It were better for you, John Ferrier," he thundered,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3324
"that you and she were now lying blanched skeletons upon the Sierra
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3325
Blanco, than that you should put your weak wills against the orders of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3326
the Holy Four!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3327
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3328
With a threatening gesture of his hand, he turned from the door, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3329
Ferrier heard his heavy step scrunching along the shingly path.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3330
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3331
He was still sitting with his elbows upon his knees, considering how he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3332
should broach the matter to his daughter when a soft hand was laid upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3333
his, and looking up, he saw her standing beside him. One glance at her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3334
pale, frightened face showed him that she had heard what had passed.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3335
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3336
"I could not help it," she said, in answer to his look. "His voice rang
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3337
through the house. Oh, father, father, what shall we do?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3338
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3339
"Don't you scare yourself," he answered, drawing her to him, and passing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3340
his broad, rough hand caressingly over her chestnut hair. "We'll fix it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3341
up somehow or another. You don't find your fancy kind o' lessening for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3342
this chap, do you?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3343
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3344
A sob and a squeeze of his hand was her only answer.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3345
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3346
"No; of course not. I shouldn't care to hear you say you did. He's a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3347
likely lad, and he's a Christian, which is more than these folk here, in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3348
spite o' all their praying and preaching. There's a party starting for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3349
Nevada to-morrow, and I'll manage to send him a message letting him know
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3350
the hole we are in. If I know anything o' that young man, he'll be back
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3351
here with a speed that would whip electro-telegraphs."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3352
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3353
Lucy laughed through her tears at her father's description.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3354
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3355
"When he comes, he will advise us for the best. But it is for you that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3356
I am frightened, dear. One hears--one hears such dreadful stories about
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3357
those who oppose the Prophet: something terrible always happens to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3358
them."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3359
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3360
"But we haven't opposed him yet," her father answered. "It will be time
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3361
to look out for squalls when we do. We have a clear month before us; at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3362
the end of that, I guess we had best shin out of Utah."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3363
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3364
"Leave Utah!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3365
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3366
"That's about the size of it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3367
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3368
"But the farm?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3369
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3370
"We will raise as much as we can in money, and let the rest go. To tell
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3371
the truth, Lucy, it isn't the first time I have thought of doing it. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3372
don't care about knuckling under to any man, as these folk do to their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3373
darned prophet. I'm a free-born American, and it's all new to me. Guess
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3374
I'm too old to learn. If he comes browsing about this farm, he might
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3375
chance to run up against a charge of buckshot travelling in the opposite
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3376
direction."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3377
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3378
"But they won't let us leave," his daughter objected.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3379
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3380
"Wait till Jefferson comes, and we'll soon manage that. In the meantime,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3381
don't you fret yourself, my dearie, and don't get your eyes swelled up,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3382
else he'll be walking into me when he sees you. There's nothing to be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3383
afeared about, and there's no danger at all."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3384
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3385
John Ferrier uttered these consoling remarks in a very confident tone,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3386
but she could not help observing that he paid unusual care to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3387
fastening of the doors that night, and that he carefully cleaned and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3388
loaded the rusty old shotgun which hung upon the wall of his bedroom.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3389
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3390
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3391
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3392
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3393
CHAPTER IV. A FLIGHT FOR LIFE.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3394
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3395
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3396
ON the morning which followed his interview with the Mormon Prophet,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3397
John Ferrier went in to Salt Lake City, and having found his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3398
acquaintance, who was bound for the Nevada Mountains, he entrusted him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3399
with his message to Jefferson Hope. In it he told the young man of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3400
imminent danger which threatened them, and how necessary it was that he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3401
should return. Having done thus he felt easier in his mind, and returned
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3402
home with a lighter heart.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3403
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3404
As he approached his farm, he was surprised to see a horse hitched to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3405
each of the posts of the gate. Still more surprised was he on entering
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3406
to find two young men in possession of his sitting-room. One, with a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3407
long pale face, was leaning back in the rocking-chair, with his feet
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3408
cocked up upon the stove. The other, a bull-necked youth with coarse
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3409
bloated features, was standing in front of the window with his hands in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3410
his pocket, whistling a popular hymn. Both of them nodded to Ferrier as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3411
he entered, and the one in the rocking-chair commenced the conversation.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3412
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3413
"Maybe you don't know us," he said. "This here is the son of Elder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3414
Drebber, and I'm Joseph Stangerson, who travelled with you in the desert
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3415
when the Lord stretched out His hand and gathered you into the true
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3416
fold."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3417
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3418
"As He will all the nations in His own good time," said the other in a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3419
nasal voice; "He grindeth slowly but exceeding small."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3420
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3421
John Ferrier bowed coldly. He had guessed who his visitors were.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3422
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3423
"We have come," continued Stangerson, "at the advice of our fathers to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3424
solicit the hand of your daughter for whichever of us may seem good to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3425
you and to her. As I have but four wives and Brother Drebber here has
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3426
seven, it appears to me that my claim is the stronger one."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3427
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3428
"Nay, nay, Brother Stangerson," cried the other; "the question is not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3429
how many wives we have, but how many we can keep. My father has now
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3430
given over his mills to me, and I am the richer man."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3431
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3432
"But my prospects are better," said the other, warmly. "When the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3433
Lord removes my father, I shall have his tanning yard and his leather
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3434
factory. Then I am your elder, and am higher in the Church."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3435
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3436
"It will be for the maiden to decide," rejoined young Drebber, smirking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3437
at his own reflection in the glass. "We will leave it all to her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3438
decision."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3439
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3440
During this dialogue, John Ferrier had stood fuming in the doorway,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3441
hardly able to keep his riding-whip from the backs of his two visitors.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3442
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3443
"Look here," he said at last, striding up to them, "when my daughter
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3444
summons you, you can come, but until then I don't want to see your faces
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3445
again."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3446
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3447
The two young Mormons stared at him in amazement. In their eyes this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3448
competition between them for the maiden's hand was the highest of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3449
honours both to her and her father.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3450
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3451
"There are two ways out of the room," cried Ferrier; "there is the door,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3452
and there is the window. Which do you care to use?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3453
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3454
His brown face looked so savage, and his gaunt hands so threatening,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3455
that his visitors sprang to their feet and beat a hurried retreat. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3456
old farmer followed them to the door.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3457
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3458
"Let me know when you have settled which it is to be," he said,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3459
sardonically.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3460
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3461
"You shall smart for this!" Stangerson cried, white with rage. "You have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3462
defied the Prophet and the Council of Four. You shall rue it to the end
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3463
of your days."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3464
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3465
"The hand of the Lord shall be heavy upon you," cried young Drebber; "He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3466
will arise and smite you!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3467
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3468
"Then I'll start the smiting," exclaimed Ferrier furiously, and would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3469
have rushed upstairs for his gun had not Lucy seized him by the arm and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3470
restrained him. Before he could escape from her, the clatter of horses'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3471
hoofs told him that they were beyond his reach.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3472
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3473
"The young canting rascals!" he exclaimed, wiping the perspiration from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3474
his forehead; "I would sooner see you in your grave, my girl, than the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3475
wife of either of them."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3476
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3477
"And so should I, father," she answered, with spirit; "but Jefferson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3478
will soon be here."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3479
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3480
"Yes. It will not be long before he comes. The sooner the better, for we
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3481
do not know what their next move may be."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3482
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3483
It was, indeed, high time that someone capable of giving advice and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3484
help should come to the aid of the sturdy old farmer and his adopted
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3485
daughter. In the whole history of the settlement there had never been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3486
such a case of rank disobedience to the authority of the Elders. If
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3487
minor errors were punished so sternly, what would be the fate of this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3488
arch rebel. Ferrier knew that his wealth and position would be of no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3489
avail to him. Others as well known and as rich as himself had been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3490
spirited away before now, and their goods given over to the Church. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3491
was a brave man, but he trembled at the vague, shadowy terrors which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3492
hung over him. Any known danger he could face with a firm lip, but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3493
this suspense was unnerving. He concealed his fears from his daughter,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3494
however, and affected to make light of the whole matter, though she,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3495
with the keen eye of love, saw plainly that he was ill at ease.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3496
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3497
He expected that he would receive some message or remonstrance from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3498
Young as to his conduct, and he was not mistaken, though it came in an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3499
unlooked-for manner. Upon rising next morning he found, to his surprise,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3500
a small square of paper pinned on to the coverlet of his bed just over
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3501
his chest. On it was printed, in bold straggling letters:--
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3502
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3503
"Twenty-nine days are given you for amendment, and then----"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3504
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3505
The dash was more fear-inspiring than any threat could have been. How
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3506
this warning came into his room puzzled John Ferrier sorely, for his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3507
servants slept in an outhouse, and the doors and windows had all been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3508
secured. He crumpled the paper up and said nothing to his daughter, but
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3509
the incident struck a chill into his heart. The twenty-nine days were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3510
evidently the balance of the month which Young had promised. What
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3511
strength or courage could avail against an enemy armed with such
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3512
mysterious powers? The hand which fastened that pin might have struck
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3513
him to the heart, and he could never have known who had slain him.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3514
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3515
Still more shaken was he next morning. They had sat down to their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3516
breakfast when Lucy with a cry of surprise pointed upwards. In the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3517
centre of the ceiling was scrawled, with a burned stick apparently,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3518
the number 28. To his daughter it was unintelligible, and he did not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3519
enlighten her. That night he sat up with his gun and kept watch and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3520
ward. He saw and he heard nothing, and yet in the morning a great 27 had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3521
been painted upon the outside of his door.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3522
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3523
Thus day followed day; and as sure as morning came he found that his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3524
unseen enemies had kept their register, and had marked up in some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3525
conspicuous position how many days were still left to him out of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3526
month of grace. Sometimes the fatal numbers appeared upon the walls,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3527
sometimes upon the floors, occasionally they were on small placards
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3528
stuck upon the garden gate or the railings. With all his vigilance John
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3529
Ferrier could not discover whence these daily warnings proceeded. A
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3530
horror which was almost superstitious came upon him at the sight of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3531
them. He became haggard and restless, and his eyes had the troubled look
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3532
of some hunted creature. He had but one hope in life now, and that was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3533
for the arrival of the young hunter from Nevada.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3534
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3535
Twenty had changed to fifteen and fifteen to ten, but there was no news
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3536
of the absentee. One by one the numbers dwindled down, and still there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3537
came no sign of him. Whenever a horseman clattered down the road, or a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3538
driver shouted at his team, the old farmer hurried to the gate thinking
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3539
that help had arrived at last. At last, when he saw five give way to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3540
four and that again to three, he lost heart, and abandoned all hope of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3541
escape. Single-handed, and with his limited knowledge of the mountains
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3542
which surrounded the settlement, he knew that he was powerless. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3543
more-frequented roads were strictly watched and guarded, and none could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3544
pass along them without an order from the Council. Turn which way he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3545
would, there appeared to be no avoiding the blow which hung over him.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3546
Yet the old man never wavered in his resolution to part with life itself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3547
before he consented to what he regarded as his daughter's dishonour.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3548
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3549
He was sitting alone one evening pondering deeply over his troubles, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3550
searching vainly for some way out of them. That morning had shown the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3551
figure 2 upon the wall of his house, and the next day would be the last
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3552
of the allotted time. What was to happen then? All manner of vague and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3553
terrible fancies filled his imagination. And his daughter--what was to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3554
become of her after he was gone? Was there no escape from the invisible
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3555
network which was drawn all round them. He sank his head upon the table
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3556
and sobbed at the thought of his own impotence.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3557
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3558
What was that? In the silence he heard a gentle scratching sound--low,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3559
but very distinct in the quiet of the night. It came from the door of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3560
the house. Ferrier crept into the hall and listened intently. There
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3561
was a pause for a few moments, and then the low insidious sound was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3562
repeated. Someone was evidently tapping very gently upon one of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3563
panels of the door. Was it some midnight assassin who had come to carry
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3564
out the murderous orders of the secret tribunal? Or was it some agent
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3565
who was marking up that the last day of grace had arrived. John Ferrier
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3566
felt that instant death would be better than the suspense which shook
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3567
his nerves and chilled his heart. Springing forward he drew the bolt and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3568
threw the door open.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3569
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3570
Outside all was calm and quiet. The night was fine, and the stars were
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3571
twinkling brightly overhead. The little front garden lay before the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3572
farmer's eyes bounded by the fence and gate, but neither there nor on
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3573
the road was any human being to be seen. With a sigh of relief, Ferrier
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3574
looked to right and to left, until happening to glance straight down at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3575
his own feet he saw to his astonishment a man lying flat upon his face
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3576
upon the ground, with arms and legs all asprawl.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3577
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3578
So unnerved was he at the sight that he leaned up against the wall with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3579
his hand to his throat to stifle his inclination to call out. His first
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3580
thought was that the prostrate figure was that of some wounded or dying
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3581
man, but as he watched it he saw it writhe along the ground and into the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3582
hall with the rapidity and noiselessness of a serpent. Once within the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3583
house the man sprang to his feet, closed the door, and revealed to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3584
astonished farmer the fierce face and resolute expression of Jefferson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3585
Hope.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3586
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3587
"Good God!" gasped John Ferrier. "How you scared me! Whatever made you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3588
come in like that."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3589
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3590
"Give me food," the other said, hoarsely. "I have had no time for bite
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3591
or sup for eight-and-forty hours." He flung himself upon the [21] cold
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3592
meat and bread which were still lying upon the table from his host's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3593
supper, and devoured it voraciously. "Does Lucy bear up well?" he asked,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3594
when he had satisfied his hunger.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3595
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3596
"Yes. She does not know the danger," her father answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3597
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3598
"That is well. The house is watched on every side. That is why I crawled
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3599
my way up to it. They may be darned sharp, but they're not quite sharp
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3600
enough to catch a Washoe hunter."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3601
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3602
John Ferrier felt a different man now that he realized that he had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3603
a devoted ally. He seized the young man's leathery hand and wrung it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3604
cordially. "You're a man to be proud of," he said. "There are not many
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3605
who would come to share our danger and our troubles."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3606
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3607
"You've hit it there, pard," the young hunter answered. "I have a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3608
respect for you, but if you were alone in this business I'd think twice
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3609
before I put my head into such a hornet's nest. It's Lucy that brings me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3610
here, and before harm comes on her I guess there will be one less o' the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3611
Hope family in Utah."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3612
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3613
"What are we to do?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3614
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3615
"To-morrow is your last day, and unless you act to-night you are lost.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3616
I have a mule and two horses waiting in the Eagle Ravine. How much money
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3617
have you?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3618
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3619
"Two thousand dollars in gold, and five in notes."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3620
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3621
"That will do. I have as much more to add to it. We must push for Carson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3622
City through the mountains. You had best wake Lucy. It is as well that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3623
the servants do not sleep in the house."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3624
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3625
While Ferrier was absent, preparing his daughter for the approaching
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3626
journey, Jefferson Hope packed all the eatables that he could find into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3627
a small parcel, and filled a stoneware jar with water, for he knew by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3628
experience that the mountain wells were few and far between. He had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3629
hardly completed his arrangements before the farmer returned with his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3630
daughter all dressed and ready for a start. The greeting between the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3631
lovers was warm, but brief, for minutes were precious, and there was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3632
much to be done.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3633
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3634
"We must make our start at once," said Jefferson Hope, speaking in a low
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3635
but resolute voice, like one who realizes the greatness of the peril,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3636
but has steeled his heart to meet it. "The front and back entrances are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3637
watched, but with caution we may get away through the side window and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3638
across the fields. Once on the road we are only two miles from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3639
Ravine where the horses are waiting. By daybreak we should be half-way
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3640
through the mountains."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3641
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3642
"What if we are stopped," asked Ferrier.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3643
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3644
Hope slapped the revolver butt which protruded from the front of his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3645
tunic. "If they are too many for us we shall take two or three of them
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3646
with us," he said with a sinister smile.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3647
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3648
The lights inside the house had all been extinguished, and from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3649
darkened window Ferrier peered over the fields which had been his own,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3650
and which he was now about to abandon for ever. He had long nerved
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3651
himself to the sacrifice, however, and the thought of the honour and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3652
happiness of his daughter outweighed any regret at his ruined fortunes.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3653
All looked so peaceful and happy, the rustling trees and the broad
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3654
silent stretch of grain-land, that it was difficult to realize that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3655
the spirit of murder lurked through it all. Yet the white face and set
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3656
expression of the young hunter showed that in his approach to the house
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3657
he had seen enough to satisfy him upon that head.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3658
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3659
Ferrier carried the bag of gold and notes, Jefferson Hope had the scanty
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3660
provisions and water, while Lucy had a small bundle containing a few
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3661
of her more valued possessions. Opening the window very slowly and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3662
carefully, they waited until a dark cloud had somewhat obscured the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3663
night, and then one by one passed through into the little garden. With
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3664
bated breath and crouching figures they stumbled across it, and gained
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3665
the shelter of the hedge, which they skirted until they came to the gap
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3666
which opened into the cornfields. They had just reached this point when
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3667
the young man seized his two companions and dragged them down into the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3668
shadow, where they lay silent and trembling.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3669
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3670
It was as well that his prairie training had given Jefferson Hope the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3671
ears of a lynx. He and his friends had hardly crouched down before the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3672
melancholy hooting of a mountain owl was heard within a few yards
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3673
of them, which was immediately answered by another hoot at a small
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3674
distance. At the same moment a vague shadowy figure emerged from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3675
gap for which they had been making, and uttered the plaintive signal cry
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3676
again, on which a second man appeared out of the obscurity.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3677
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3678
"To-morrow at midnight," said the first who appeared to be in authority.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3679
"When the Whip-poor-Will calls three times."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3680
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3681
"It is well," returned the other. "Shall I tell Brother Drebber?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3682
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3683
"Pass it on to him, and from him to the others. Nine to seven!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3684
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3685
"Seven to five!" repeated the other, and the two figures flitted away
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3686
in different directions. Their concluding words had evidently been some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3687
form of sign and countersign. The instant that their footsteps had died
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3688
away in the distance, Jefferson Hope sprang to his feet, and helping his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3689
companions through the gap, led the way across the fields at the top
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3690
of his speed, supporting and half-carrying the girl when her strength
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3691
appeared to fail her.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3692
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3693
"Hurry on! hurry on!" he gasped from time to time. "We are through the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3694
line of sentinels. Everything depends on speed. Hurry on!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3695
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3696
Once on the high road they made rapid progress. Only once did they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3697
meet anyone, and then they managed to slip into a field, and so avoid
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3698
recognition. Before reaching the town the hunter branched away into a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3699
rugged and narrow footpath which led to the mountains. Two dark jagged
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3700
peaks loomed above them through the darkness, and the defile which led
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3701
between them was the Eagle Cañon in which the horses were awaiting them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3702
With unerring instinct Jefferson Hope picked his way among the great
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3703
boulders and along the bed of a dried-up watercourse, until he came to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3704
the retired corner, screened with rocks, where the faithful animals had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3705
been picketed. The girl was placed upon the mule, and old Ferrier upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3706
one of the horses, with his money-bag, while Jefferson Hope led the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3707
other along the precipitous and dangerous path.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3708
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3709
It was a bewildering route for anyone who was not accustomed to face
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3710
Nature in her wildest moods. On the one side a great crag towered up a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3711
thousand feet or more, black, stern, and menacing, with long basaltic
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3712
columns upon its rugged surface like the ribs of some petrified monster.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3713
On the other hand a wild chaos of boulders and debris made all advance
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3714
impossible. Between the two ran the irregular track, so narrow in places
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3715
that they had to travel in Indian file, and so rough that only practised
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3716
riders could have traversed it at all. Yet in spite of all dangers and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3717
difficulties, the hearts of the fugitives were light within them,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3718
for every step increased the distance between them and the terrible
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3719
despotism from which they were flying.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3720
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3721
They soon had a proof, however, that they were still within the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3722
jurisdiction of the Saints. They had reached the very wildest and most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3723
desolate portion of the pass when the girl gave a startled cry, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3724
pointed upwards. On a rock which overlooked the track, showing out dark
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3725
and plain against the sky, there stood a solitary sentinel. He saw them
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3726
as soon as they perceived him, and his military challenge of "Who goes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3727
there?" rang through the silent ravine.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3728
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3729
"Travellers for Nevada," said Jefferson Hope, with his hand upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3730
rifle which hung by his saddle.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3731
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3732
They could see the lonely watcher fingering his gun, and peering down at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3733
them as if dissatisfied at their reply.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3734
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3735
"By whose permission?" he asked.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3736
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3737
"The Holy Four," answered Ferrier. His Mormon experiences had taught him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3738
that that was the highest authority to which he could refer.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3739
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3740
"Nine from seven," cried the sentinel.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3741
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3742
"Seven from five," returned Jefferson Hope promptly, remembering the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3743
countersign which he had heard in the garden.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3744
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3745
"Pass, and the Lord go with you," said the voice from above. Beyond his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3746
post the path broadened out, and the horses were able to break into a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3747
trot. Looking back, they could see the solitary watcher leaning upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3748
his gun, and knew that they had passed the outlying post of the chosen
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3749
people, and that freedom lay before them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3750
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3751
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3752
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3753
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3754
CHAPTER V. THE AVENGING ANGELS.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3755
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3756
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3757
ALL night their course lay through intricate defiles and over irregular
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3758
and rock-strewn paths. More than once they lost their way, but Hope's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3759
intimate knowledge of the mountains enabled them to regain the track
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3760
once more. When morning broke, a scene of marvellous though savage
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3761
beauty lay before them. In every direction the great snow-capped peaks
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3762
hemmed them in, peeping over each other's shoulders to the far horizon.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3763
So steep were the rocky banks on either side of them, that the larch
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3764
and the pine seemed to be suspended over their heads, and to need only a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3765
gust of wind to come hurtling down upon them. Nor was the fear entirely
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3766
an illusion, for the barren valley was thickly strewn with trees and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3767
boulders which had fallen in a similar manner. Even as they passed,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3768
a great rock came thundering down with a hoarse rattle which woke
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3769
the echoes in the silent gorges, and startled the weary horses into a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3770
gallop.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3771
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3772
As the sun rose slowly above the eastern horizon, the caps of the great
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3773
mountains lit up one after the other, like lamps at a festival, until
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3774
they were all ruddy and glowing. The magnificent spectacle cheered the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3775
hearts of the three fugitives and gave them fresh energy. At a wild
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3776
torrent which swept out of a ravine they called a halt and watered their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3777
horses, while they partook of a hasty breakfast. Lucy and her father
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3778
would fain have rested longer, but Jefferson Hope was inexorable. "They
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3779
will be upon our track by this time," he said. "Everything depends upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3780
our speed. Once safe in Carson we may rest for the remainder of our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3781
lives."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3782
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3783
During the whole of that day they struggled on through the defiles, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3784
by evening they calculated that they were more than thirty miles from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3785
their enemies. At night-time they chose the base of a beetling crag,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3786
where the rocks offered some protection from the chill wind, and there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3787
huddled together for warmth, they enjoyed a few hours' sleep. Before
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3788
daybreak, however, they were up and on their way once more. They had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3789
seen no signs of any pursuers, and Jefferson Hope began to think that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3790
they were fairly out of the reach of the terrible organization whose
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3791
enmity they had incurred. He little knew how far that iron grasp could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3792
reach, or how soon it was to close upon them and crush them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3793
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3794
About the middle of the second day of their flight their scanty store
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3795
of provisions began to run out. This gave the hunter little uneasiness,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3796
however, for there was game to be had among the mountains, and he had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3797
frequently before had to depend upon his rifle for the needs of life.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3798
Choosing a sheltered nook, he piled together a few dried branches and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3799
made a blazing fire, at which his companions might warm themselves, for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3800
they were now nearly five thousand feet above the sea level, and the air
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3801
was bitter and keen. Having tethered the horses, and bade Lucy adieu,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3802
he threw his gun over his shoulder, and set out in search of whatever
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3803
chance might throw in his way. Looking back he saw the old man and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3804
young girl crouching over the blazing fire, while the three animals
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3805
stood motionless in the back-ground. Then the intervening rocks hid them
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3806
from his view.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3807
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3808
He walked for a couple of miles through one ravine after another without
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3809
success, though from the marks upon the bark of the trees, and other
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3810
indications, he judged that there were numerous bears in the vicinity.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3811
At last, after two or three hours' fruitless search, he was thinking of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3812
turning back in despair, when casting his eyes upwards he saw a sight
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3813
which sent a thrill of pleasure through his heart. On the edge of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3814
jutting pinnacle, three or four hundred feet above him, there stood a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3815
creature somewhat resembling a sheep in appearance, but armed with a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3816
pair of gigantic horns. The big-horn--for so it is called--was acting,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3817
probably, as a guardian over a flock which were invisible to the hunter;
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3818
but fortunately it was heading in the opposite direction, and had not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3819
perceived him. Lying on his face, he rested his rifle upon a rock, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3820
took a long and steady aim before drawing the trigger. The animal sprang
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3821
into the air, tottered for a moment upon the edge of the precipice, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3822
then came crashing down into the valley beneath.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3823
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3824
The creature was too unwieldy to lift, so the hunter contented himself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3825
with cutting away one haunch and part of the flank. With this trophy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3826
over his shoulder, he hastened to retrace his steps, for the evening was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3827
already drawing in. He had hardly started, however, before he realized
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3828
the difficulty which faced him. In his eagerness he had wandered far
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3829
past the ravines which were known to him, and it was no easy matter
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3830
to pick out the path which he had taken. The valley in which he found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3831
himself divided and sub-divided into many gorges, which were so like
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3832
each other that it was impossible to distinguish one from the other.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3833
He followed one for a mile or more until he came to a mountain torrent
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3834
which he was sure that he had never seen before. Convinced that he had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3835
taken the wrong turn, he tried another, but with the same result. Night
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3836
was coming on rapidly, and it was almost dark before he at last found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3837
himself in a defile which was familiar to him. Even then it was no easy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3838
matter to keep to the right track, for the moon had not yet risen, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3839
the high cliffs on either side made the obscurity more profound. Weighed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3840
down with his burden, and weary from his exertions, he stumbled along,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3841
keeping up his heart by the reflection that every step brought him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3842
nearer to Lucy, and that he carried with him enough to ensure them food
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3843
for the remainder of their journey.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3844
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3845
He had now come to the mouth of the very defile in which he had left
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3846
them. Even in the darkness he could recognize the outline of the cliffs
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3847
which bounded it. They must, he reflected, be awaiting him anxiously,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3848
for he had been absent nearly five hours. In the gladness of his heart
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3849
he put his hands to his mouth and made the glen re-echo to a loud halloo
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3850
as a signal that he was coming. He paused and listened for an answer.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3851
None came save his own cry, which clattered up the dreary silent
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3852
ravines, and was borne back to his ears in countless repetitions. Again
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3853
he shouted, even louder than before, and again no whisper came back from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3854
the friends whom he had left such a short time ago. A vague, nameless
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3855
dread came over him, and he hurried onwards frantically, dropping the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3856
precious food in his agitation.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3857
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3858
When he turned the corner, he came full in sight of the spot where the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3859
fire had been lit. There was still a glowing pile of wood ashes there,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3860
but it had evidently not been tended since his departure. The same
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3861
dead silence still reigned all round. With his fears all changed to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3862
convictions, he hurried on. There was no living creature near the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3863
remains of the fire: animals, man, maiden, all were gone. It was only
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3864
too clear that some sudden and terrible disaster had occurred during
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3865
his absence--a disaster which had embraced them all, and yet had left no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3866
traces behind it.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3867
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3868
Bewildered and stunned by this blow, Jefferson Hope felt his head spin
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3869
round, and had to lean upon his rifle to save himself from falling. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3870
was essentially a man of action, however, and speedily recovered from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3871
his temporary impotence. Seizing a half-consumed piece of wood from the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3872
smouldering fire, he blew it into a flame, and proceeded with its help
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3873
to examine the little camp. The ground was all stamped down by the feet
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3874
of horses, showing that a large party of mounted men had overtaken
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3875
the fugitives, and the direction of their tracks proved that they had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3876
afterwards turned back to Salt Lake City. Had they carried back both of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3877
his companions with them? Jefferson Hope had almost persuaded himself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3878
that they must have done so, when his eye fell upon an object which made
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3879
every nerve of his body tingle within him. A little way on one side of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3880
the camp was a low-lying heap of reddish soil, which had assuredly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3881
not been there before. There was no mistaking it for anything but a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3882
newly-dug grave. As the young hunter approached it, he perceived that a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3883
stick had been planted on it, with a sheet of paper stuck in the cleft
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3884
fork of it. The inscription upon the paper was brief, but to the point:
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3885
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3886
                        JOHN FERRIER,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3887
                 FORMERLY OF SALT LAKE CITY, [22]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3888
                    Died August 4th, 1860.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3889
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3890
The sturdy old man, whom he had left so short a time before, was gone,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3891
then, and this was all his epitaph. Jefferson Hope looked wildly round
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3892
to see if there was a second grave, but there was no sign of one. Lucy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3893
had been carried back by their terrible pursuers to fulfil her original
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3894
destiny, by becoming one of the harem of the Elder's son. As the young
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3895
fellow realized the certainty of her fate, and his own powerlessness to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3896
prevent it, he wished that he, too, was lying with the old farmer in his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3897
last silent resting-place.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3898
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3899
Again, however, his active spirit shook off the lethargy which springs
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3900
from despair. If there was nothing else left to him, he could at least
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3901
devote his life to revenge. With indomitable patience and perseverance,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3902
Jefferson Hope possessed also a power of sustained vindictiveness, which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3903
he may have learned from the Indians amongst whom he had lived. As he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3904
stood by the desolate fire, he felt that the only one thing which could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3905
assuage his grief would be thorough and complete retribution, brought
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3906
by his own hand upon his enemies. His strong will and untiring energy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3907
should, he determined, be devoted to that one end. With a grim, white
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3908
face, he retraced his steps to where he had dropped the food, and having
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3909
stirred up the smouldering fire, he cooked enough to last him for a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3910
few days. This he made up into a bundle, and, tired as he was, he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3911
set himself to walk back through the mountains upon the track of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3912
avenging angels.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3913
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3914
For five days he toiled footsore and weary through the defiles which he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3915
had already traversed on horseback. At night he flung himself down among
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3916
the rocks, and snatched a few hours of sleep; but before daybreak he was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3917
always well on his way. On the sixth day, he reached the Eagle Cañon,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3918
from which they had commenced their ill-fated flight. Thence he could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3919
look down upon the home of the saints. Worn and exhausted, he leaned
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3920
upon his rifle and shook his gaunt hand fiercely at the silent
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3921
widespread city beneath him. As he looked at it, he observed that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3922
there were flags in some of the principal streets, and other signs of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3923
festivity. He was still speculating as to what this might mean when he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3924
heard the clatter of horse's hoofs, and saw a mounted man riding towards
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3925
him. As he approached, he recognized him as a Mormon named Cowper, to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3926
whom he had rendered services at different times. He therefore accosted
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3927
him when he got up to him, with the object of finding out what Lucy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3928
Ferrier's fate had been.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3929
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3930
"I am Jefferson Hope," he said. "You remember me."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3931
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3932
The Mormon looked at him with undisguised astonishment--indeed, it was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3933
difficult to recognize in this tattered, unkempt wanderer, with ghastly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3934
white face and fierce, wild eyes, the spruce young hunter of former
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3935
days. Having, however, at last, satisfied himself as to his identity,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3936
the man's surprise changed to consternation.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3937
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3938
"You are mad to come here," he cried. "It is as much as my own life is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3939
worth to be seen talking with you. There is a warrant against you from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3940
the Holy Four for assisting the Ferriers away."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3941
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3942
"I don't fear them, or their warrant," Hope said, earnestly. "You must
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3943
know something of this matter, Cowper. I conjure you by everything you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3944
hold dear to answer a few questions. We have always been friends. For
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3945
God's sake, don't refuse to answer me."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3946
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3947
"What is it?" the Mormon asked uneasily. "Be quick. The very rocks have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3948
ears and the trees eyes."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3949
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3950
"What has become of Lucy Ferrier?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3951
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3952
"She was married yesterday to young Drebber. Hold up, man, hold up, you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3953
have no life left in you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3954
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3955
"Don't mind me," said Hope faintly. He was white to the very lips, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3956
had sunk down on the stone against which he had been leaning. "Married,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3957
you say?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3958
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3959
"Married yesterday--that's what those flags are for on the Endowment
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3960
House. There was some words between young Drebber and young Stangerson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3961
as to which was to have her. They'd both been in the party that followed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3962
them, and Stangerson had shot her father, which seemed to give him the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3963
best claim; but when they argued it out in council, Drebber's party was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3964
the stronger, so the Prophet gave her over to him. No one won't have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3965
her very long though, for I saw death in her face yesterday. She is more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3966
like a ghost than a woman. Are you off, then?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3967
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3968
"Yes, I am off," said Jefferson Hope, who had risen from his seat. His
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3969
face might have been chiselled out of marble, so hard and set was its
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3970
expression, while its eyes glowed with a baleful light.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3971
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3972
"Where are you going?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3973
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3974
"Never mind," he answered; and, slinging his weapon over his shoulder,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3975
strode off down the gorge and so away into the heart of the mountains to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3976
the haunts of the wild beasts. Amongst them all there was none so fierce
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3977
and so dangerous as himself.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3978
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3979
The prediction of the Mormon was only too well fulfilled. Whether it was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3980
the terrible death of her father or the effects of the hateful marriage
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3981
into which she had been forced, poor Lucy never held up her head again,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3982
but pined away and died within a month. Her sottish husband, who had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3983
married her principally for the sake of John Ferrier's property, did not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3984
affect any great grief at his bereavement; but his other wives mourned
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3985
over her, and sat up with her the night before the burial, as is the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3986
Mormon custom. They were grouped round the bier in the early hours of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3987
the morning, when, to their inexpressible fear and astonishment,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3988
the door was flung open, and a savage-looking, weather-beaten man in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3989
tattered garments strode into the room. Without a glance or a word to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3990
the cowering women, he walked up to the white silent figure which had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3991
once contained the pure soul of Lucy Ferrier. Stooping over her, he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3992
pressed his lips reverently to her cold forehead, and then, snatching
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3993
up her hand, he took the wedding-ring from her finger. "She shall not be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3994
buried in that," he cried with a fierce snarl, and before an alarm could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3995
be raised sprang down the stairs and was gone. So strange and so brief
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3996
was the episode, that the watchers might have found it hard to believe
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3997
it themselves or persuade other people of it, had it not been for the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3998
undeniable fact that the circlet of gold which marked her as having been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  3999
a bride had disappeared.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4000
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4001
For some months Jefferson Hope lingered among the mountains, leading
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4002
a strange wild life, and nursing in his heart the fierce desire for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4003
vengeance which possessed him. Tales were told in the City of the weird
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4004
figure which was seen prowling about the suburbs, and which haunted
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4005
the lonely mountain gorges. Once a bullet whistled through Stangerson's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4006
window and flattened itself upon the wall within a foot of him. On
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4007
another occasion, as Drebber passed under a cliff a great boulder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4008
crashed down on him, and he only escaped a terrible death by throwing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4009
himself upon his face. The two young Mormons were not long in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4010
discovering the reason of these attempts upon their lives, and led
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4011
repeated expeditions into the mountains in the hope of capturing or
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4012
killing their enemy, but always without success. Then they adopted the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4013
precaution of never going out alone or after nightfall, and of having
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4014
their houses guarded. After a time they were able to relax these
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4015
measures, for nothing was either heard or seen of their opponent, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4016
they hoped that time had cooled his vindictiveness.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4017
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4018
Far from doing so, it had, if anything, augmented it. The hunter's mind
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4019
was of a hard, unyielding nature, and the predominant idea of revenge
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4020
had taken such complete possession of it that there was no room for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4021
any other emotion. He was, however, above all things practical. He soon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4022
realized that even his iron constitution could not stand the incessant
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4023
strain which he was putting upon it. Exposure and want of wholesome food
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4024
were wearing him out. If he died like a dog among the mountains, what
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4025
was to become of his revenge then? And yet such a death was sure to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4026
overtake him if he persisted. He felt that that was to play his enemy's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4027
game, so he reluctantly returned to the old Nevada mines, there to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4028
recruit his health and to amass money enough to allow him to pursue his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4029
object without privation.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4030
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4031
His intention had been to be absent a year at the most, but a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4032
combination of unforeseen circumstances prevented his leaving the mines
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4033
for nearly five. At the end of that time, however, his memory of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4034
his wrongs and his craving for revenge were quite as keen as on that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4035
memorable night when he had stood by John Ferrier's grave. Disguised,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4036
and under an assumed name, he returned to Salt Lake City, careless
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4037
what became of his own life, as long as he obtained what he knew to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4038
be justice. There he found evil tidings awaiting him. There had been a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4039
schism among the Chosen People a few months before, some of the younger
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4040
members of the Church having rebelled against the authority of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4041
Elders, and the result had been the secession of a certain number of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4042
malcontents, who had left Utah and become Gentiles. Among these had been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4043
Drebber and Stangerson; and no one knew whither they had gone. Rumour
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4044
reported that Drebber had managed to convert a large part of his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4045
property into money, and that he had departed a wealthy man, while his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4046
companion, Stangerson, was comparatively poor. There was no clue at all,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4047
however, as to their whereabouts.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4048
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4049
Many a man, however vindictive, would have abandoned all thought of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4050
revenge in the face of such a difficulty, but Jefferson Hope never
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4051
faltered for a moment. With the small competence he possessed, eked out
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4052
by such employment as he could pick up, he travelled from town to town
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4053
through the United States in quest of his enemies. Year passed into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4054
year, his black hair turned grizzled, but still he wandered on, a human
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4055
bloodhound, with his mind wholly set upon the one object upon which he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4056
had devoted his life. At last his perseverance was rewarded. It was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4057
but a glance of a face in a window, but that one glance told him that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4058
Cleveland in Ohio possessed the men whom he was in pursuit of. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4059
returned to his miserable lodgings with his plan of vengeance all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4060
arranged. It chanced, however, that Drebber, looking from his window,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4061
had recognized the vagrant in the street, and had read murder in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4062
his eyes. He hurried before a justice of the peace, accompanied by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4063
Stangerson, who had become his private secretary, and represented to him
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4064
that they were in danger of their lives from the jealousy and hatred of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4065
an old rival. That evening Jefferson Hope was taken into custody, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4066
not being able to find sureties, was detained for some weeks. When at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4067
last he was liberated, it was only to find that Drebber's house was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4068
deserted, and that he and his secretary had departed for Europe.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4069
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4070
Again the avenger had been foiled, and again his concentrated hatred
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4071
urged him to continue the pursuit. Funds were wanting, however, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4072
for some time he had to return to work, saving every dollar for his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4073
approaching journey. At last, having collected enough to keep life in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4074
him, he departed for Europe, and tracked his enemies from city to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4075
city, working his way in any menial capacity, but never overtaking the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4076
fugitives. When he reached St. Petersburg they had departed for Paris;
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4077
and when he followed them there he learned that they had just set off
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4078
for Copenhagen. At the Danish capital he was again a few days late, for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4079
they had journeyed on to London, where he at last succeeded in running
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4080
them to earth. As to what occurred there, we cannot do better than quote
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4081
the old hunter's own account, as duly recorded in Dr. Watson's Journal,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4082
to which we are already under such obligations.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4083
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4084
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4085
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4086
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4087
CHAPTER VI. A CONTINUATION OF THE REMINISCENCES OF JOHN WATSON, M.D.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4088
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4089
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4090
OUR prisoner's furious resistance did not apparently indicate any
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4091
ferocity in his disposition towards ourselves, for on finding himself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4092
powerless, he smiled in an affable manner, and expressed his hopes that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4093
he had not hurt any of us in the scuffle. "I guess you're going to take
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4094
me to the police-station," he remarked to Sherlock Holmes. "My cab's at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4095
the door. If you'll loose my legs I'll walk down to it. I'm not so light
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4096
to lift as I used to be."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4097
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4098
Gregson and Lestrade exchanged glances as if they thought this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4099
proposition rather a bold one; but Holmes at once took the prisoner at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4100
his word, and loosened the towel which we had bound round his ancles.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4101
[23] He rose and stretched his legs, as though to assure himself that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4102
they were free once more. I remember that I thought to myself, as I eyed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4103
him, that I had seldom seen a more powerfully built man; and his dark
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4104
sunburned face bore an expression of determination and energy which was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4105
as formidable as his personal strength.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4106
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4107
"If there's a vacant place for a chief of the police, I reckon you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4108
are the man for it," he said, gazing with undisguised admiration at my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4109
fellow-lodger. "The way you kept on my trail was a caution."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4110
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4111
"You had better come with me," said Holmes to the two detectives.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4112
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4113
"I can drive you," said Lestrade.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4114
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4115
"Good! and Gregson can come inside with me. You too, Doctor, you have
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4116
taken an interest in the case and may as well stick to us."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4117
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4118
I assented gladly, and we all descended together. Our prisoner made no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4119
attempt at escape, but stepped calmly into the cab which had been his,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4120
and we followed him. Lestrade mounted the box, whipped up the horse, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4121
brought us in a very short time to our destination. We were ushered into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4122
a small chamber where a police Inspector noted down our prisoner's name
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4123
and the names of the men with whose murder he had been charged. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4124
official was a white-faced unemotional man, who went through his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4125
duties in a dull mechanical way. "The prisoner will be put before the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4126
magistrates in the course of the week," he said; "in the mean time, Mr.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4127
Jefferson Hope, have you anything that you wish to say? I must warn you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4128
that your words will be taken down, and may be used against you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4129
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4130
"I've got a good deal to say," our prisoner said slowly. "I want to tell
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4131
you gentlemen all about it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4132
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4133
"Hadn't you better reserve that for your trial?" asked the Inspector.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4134
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4135
"I may never be tried," he answered. "You needn't look startled. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4136
isn't suicide I am thinking of. Are you a Doctor?" He turned his fierce
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4137
dark eyes upon me as he asked this last question.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4138
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4139
"Yes; I am," I answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4140
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4141
"Then put your hand here," he said, with a smile, motioning with his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4142
manacled wrists towards his chest.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4143
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4144
I did so; and became at once conscious of an extraordinary throbbing and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4145
commotion which was going on inside. The walls of his chest seemed to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4146
thrill and quiver as a frail building would do inside when some powerful
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4147
engine was at work. In the silence of the room I could hear a dull
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4148
humming and buzzing noise which proceeded from the same source.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4149
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4150
"Why," I cried, "you have an aortic aneurism!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4151
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4152
"That's what they call it," he said, placidly. "I went to a Doctor last
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4153
week about it, and he told me that it is bound to burst before many days
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4154
passed. It has been getting worse for years. I got it from over-exposure
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4155
and under-feeding among the Salt Lake Mountains. I've done my work now,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4156
and I don't care how soon I go, but I should like to leave some account
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4157
of the business behind me. I don't want to be remembered as a common
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4158
cut-throat."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4159
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4160
The Inspector and the two detectives had a hurried discussion as to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4161
advisability of allowing him to tell his story.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4162
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4163
"Do you consider, Doctor, that there is immediate danger?" the former
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4164
asked, [24]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4165
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4166
"Most certainly there is," I answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4167
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4168
"In that case it is clearly our duty, in the interests of justice, to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4169
take his statement," said the Inspector. "You are at liberty, sir, to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4170
give your account, which I again warn you will be taken down."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4171
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4172
"I'll sit down, with your leave," the prisoner said, suiting the action
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4173
to the word. "This aneurism of mine makes me easily tired, and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4174
tussle we had half an hour ago has not mended matters. I'm on the brink
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4175
of the grave, and I am not likely to lie to you. Every word I say is the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4176
absolute truth, and how you use it is a matter of no consequence to me."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4177
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4178
With these words, Jefferson Hope leaned back in his chair and began
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4179
the following remarkable statement. He spoke in a calm and methodical
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4180
manner, as though the events which he narrated were commonplace enough.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4181
I can vouch for the accuracy of the subjoined account, for I have had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4182
access to Lestrade's note-book, in which the prisoner's words were taken
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4183
down exactly as they were uttered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4184
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4185
"It don't much matter to you why I hated these men," he said; "it's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4186
enough that they were guilty of the death of two human beings--a father
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4187
and a daughter--and that they had, therefore, forfeited their own
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4188
lives. After the lapse of time that has passed since their crime, it was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4189
impossible for me to secure a conviction against them in any court. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4190
knew of their guilt though, and I determined that I should be judge,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4191
jury, and executioner all rolled into one. You'd have done the same, if
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4192
you have any manhood in you, if you had been in my place.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4193
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4194
"That girl that I spoke of was to have married me twenty years ago. She
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4195
was forced into marrying that same Drebber, and broke her heart over
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4196
it. I took the marriage ring from her dead finger, and I vowed that his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4197
dying eyes should rest upon that very ring, and that his last thoughts
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4198
should be of the crime for which he was punished. I have carried
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4199
it about with me, and have followed him and his accomplice over two
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4200
continents until I caught them. They thought to tire me out, but they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4201
could not do it. If I die to-morrow, as is likely enough, I die knowing
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4202
that my work in this world is done, and well done. They have perished,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4203
and by my hand. There is nothing left for me to hope for, or to desire.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4204
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4205
"They were rich and I was poor, so that it was no easy matter for me to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4206
follow them. When I got to London my pocket was about empty, and I found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4207
that I must turn my hand to something for my living. Driving and riding
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4208
are as natural to me as walking, so I applied at a cabowner's office,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4209
and soon got employment. I was to bring a certain sum a week to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4210
owner, and whatever was over that I might keep for myself. There was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4211
seldom much over, but I managed to scrape along somehow. The hardest job
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4212
was to learn my way about, for I reckon that of all the mazes that ever
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4213
were contrived, this city is the most confusing. I had a map beside me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4214
though, and when once I had spotted the principal hotels and stations, I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4215
got on pretty well.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4216
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4217
"It was some time before I found out where my two gentlemen were living;
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4218
but I inquired and inquired until at last I dropped across them. They
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4219
were at a boarding-house at Camberwell, over on the other side of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4220
river. When once I found them out I knew that I had them at my mercy. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4221
had grown my beard, and there was no chance of their recognizing me.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4222
I would dog them and follow them until I saw my opportunity. I was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4223
determined that they should not escape me again.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4224
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4225
"They were very near doing it for all that. Go where they would about
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4226
London, I was always at their heels. Sometimes I followed them on my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4227
cab, and sometimes on foot, but the former was the best, for then they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4228
could not get away from me. It was only early in the morning or late
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4229
at night that I could earn anything, so that I began to get behind hand
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4230
with my employer. I did not mind that, however, as long as I could lay
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4231
my hand upon the men I wanted.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4232
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4233
"They were very cunning, though. They must have thought that there was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4234
some chance of their being followed, for they would never go out alone,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4235
and never after nightfall. During two weeks I drove behind them every
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4236
day, and never once saw them separate. Drebber himself was drunk half
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4237
the time, but Stangerson was not to be caught napping. I watched them
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4238
late and early, but never saw the ghost of a chance; but I was not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4239
discouraged, for something told me that the hour had almost come. My
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4240
only fear was that this thing in my chest might burst a little too soon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4241
and leave my work undone.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4242
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4243
"At last, one evening I was driving up and down Torquay Terrace, as the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4244
street was called in which they boarded, when I saw a cab drive up to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4245
their door. Presently some luggage was brought out, and after a time
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4246
Drebber and Stangerson followed it, and drove off. I whipped up my horse
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4247
and kept within sight of them, feeling very ill at ease, for I feared
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4248
that they were going to shift their quarters. At Euston Station they
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4249
got out, and I left a boy to hold my horse, and followed them on to the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4250
platform. I heard them ask for the Liverpool train, and the guard answer
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4251
that one had just gone and there would not be another for some hours.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4252
Stangerson seemed to be put out at that, but Drebber was rather pleased
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4253
than otherwise. I got so close to them in the bustle that I could hear
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4254
every word that passed between them. Drebber said that he had a little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4255
business of his own to do, and that if the other would wait for him he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4256
would soon rejoin him. His companion remonstrated with him, and reminded
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4257
him that they had resolved to stick together. Drebber answered that the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4258
matter was a delicate one, and that he must go alone. I could not catch
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4259
what Stangerson said to that, but the other burst out swearing, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4260
reminded him that he was nothing more than his paid servant, and that he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4261
must not presume to dictate to him. On that the Secretary gave it up
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4262
as a bad job, and simply bargained with him that if he missed the last
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4263
train he should rejoin him at Halliday's Private Hotel; to which Drebber
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4264
answered that he would be back on the platform before eleven, and made
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4265
his way out of the station.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4266
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4267
"The moment for which I had waited so long had at last come. I had my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4268
enemies within my power. Together they could protect each other,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4269
but singly they were at my mercy. I did not act, however, with undue
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4270
precipitation. My plans were already formed. There is no satisfaction in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4271
vengeance unless the offender has time to realize who it is that strikes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4272
him, and why retribution has come upon him. I had my plans arranged by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4273
which I should have the opportunity of making the man who had wronged me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4274
understand that his old sin had found him out. It chanced that some days
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4275
before a gentleman who had been engaged in looking over some houses in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4276
the Brixton Road had dropped the key of one of them in my carriage. It
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4277
was claimed that same evening, and returned; but in the interval I had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4278
taken a moulding of it, and had a duplicate constructed. By means of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4279
this I had access to at least one spot in this great city where I could
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4280
rely upon being free from interruption. How to get Drebber to that house
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4281
was the difficult problem which I had now to solve.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4282
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4283
"He walked down the road and went into one or two liquor shops, staying
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4284
for nearly half-an-hour in the last of them. When he came out he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4285
staggered in his walk, and was evidently pretty well on. There was a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4286
hansom just in front of me, and he hailed it. I followed it so close
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4287
that the nose of my horse was within a yard of his driver the whole way.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4288
We rattled across Waterloo Bridge and through miles of streets, until,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4289
to my astonishment, we found ourselves back in the Terrace in which he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4290
had boarded. I could not imagine what his intention was in returning
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4291
there; but I went on and pulled up my cab a hundred yards or so from
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4292
the house. He entered it, and his hansom drove away. Give me a glass of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4293
water, if you please. My mouth gets dry with the talking."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4294
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4295
I handed him the glass, and he drank it down.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4296
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4297
"That's better," he said. "Well, I waited for a quarter of an hour, or
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4298
more, when suddenly there came a noise like people struggling inside the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4299
house. Next moment the door was flung open and two men appeared, one of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4300
whom was Drebber, and the other was a young chap whom I had never seen
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4301
before. This fellow had Drebber by the collar, and when they came to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4302
the head of the steps he gave him a shove and a kick which sent him half
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4303
across the road. 'You hound,' he cried, shaking his stick at him; 'I'll
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4304
teach you to insult an honest girl!' He was so hot that I think he would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4305
have thrashed Drebber with his cudgel, only that the cur staggered away
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4306
down the road as fast as his legs would carry him. He ran as far as the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4307
corner, and then, seeing my cab, he hailed me and jumped in. 'Drive me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4308
to Halliday's Private Hotel,' said he.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4309
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4310
"When I had him fairly inside my cab, my heart jumped so with joy that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4311
I feared lest at this last moment my aneurism might go wrong. I drove
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4312
along slowly, weighing in my own mind what it was best to do. I might
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4313
take him right out into the country, and there in some deserted lane
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4314
have my last interview with him. I had almost decided upon this, when he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4315
solved the problem for me. The craze for drink had seized him again, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4316
he ordered me to pull up outside a gin palace. He went in, leaving word
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4317
that I should wait for him. There he remained until closing time, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4318
when he came out he was so far gone that I knew the game was in my own
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4319
hands.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4320
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4321
"Don't imagine that I intended to kill him in cold blood. It would only
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4322
have been rigid justice if I had done so, but I could not bring myself
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4323
to do it. I had long determined that he should have a show for his life
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4324
if he chose to take advantage of it. Among the many billets which I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4325
have filled in America during my wandering life, I was once janitor and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4326
sweeper out of the laboratory at York College. One day the professor was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4327
lecturing on poisions, [25] and he showed his students some alkaloid,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4328
as he called it, which he had extracted from some South American arrow
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4329
poison, and which was so powerful that the least grain meant instant
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4330
death. I spotted the bottle in which this preparation was kept, and when
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4331
they were all gone, I helped myself to a little of it. I was a fairly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4332
good dispenser, so I worked this alkaloid into small, soluble pills, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4333
each pill I put in a box with a similar pill made without the poison.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4334
I determined at the time that when I had my chance, my gentlemen should
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4335
each have a draw out of one of these boxes, while I ate the pill that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4336
remained. It would be quite as deadly, and a good deal less noisy than
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4337
firing across a handkerchief. From that day I had always my pill boxes
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4338
about with me, and the time had now come when I was to use them.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4339
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4340
"It was nearer one than twelve, and a wild, bleak night, blowing hard
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4341
and raining in torrents. Dismal as it was outside, I was glad within--so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4342
glad that I could have shouted out from pure exultation. If any of you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4343
gentlemen have ever pined for a thing, and longed for it during twenty
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4344
long years, and then suddenly found it within your reach, you would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4345
understand my feelings. I lit a cigar, and puffed at it to steady my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4346
nerves, but my hands were trembling, and my temples throbbing with
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4347
excitement. As I drove, I could see old John Ferrier and sweet Lucy
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4348
looking at me out of the darkness and smiling at me, just as plain as I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4349
see you all in this room. All the way they were ahead of me, one on each
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4350
side of the horse until I pulled up at the house in the Brixton Road.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4351
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4352
"There was not a soul to be seen, nor a sound to be heard, except the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4353
dripping of the rain. When I looked in at the window, I found Drebber
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4354
all huddled together in a drunken sleep. I shook him by the arm, 'It's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4355
time to get out,' I said.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4356
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4357
"'All right, cabby,' said he.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4358
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4359
"I suppose he thought we had come to the hotel that he had mentioned,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4360
for he got out without another word, and followed me down the garden.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4361
I had to walk beside him to keep him steady, for he was still a little
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4362
top-heavy. When we came to the door, I opened it, and led him into the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4363
front room. I give you my word that all the way, the father and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4364
daughter were walking in front of us.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4365
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4366
"'It's infernally dark,' said he, stamping about.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4367
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4368
"'We'll soon have a light,' I said, striking a match and putting it to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4369
a wax candle which I had brought with me. 'Now, Enoch Drebber,' I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4370
continued, turning to him, and holding the light to my own face, 'who am
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4371
I?'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4372
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4373
"He gazed at me with bleared, drunken eyes for a moment, and then I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4374
saw a horror spring up in them, and convulse his whole features, which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4375
showed me that he knew me. He staggered back with a livid face, and I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4376
saw the perspiration break out upon his brow, while his teeth chattered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4377
in his head. At the sight, I leaned my back against the door and laughed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4378
loud and long. I had always known that vengeance would be sweet, but I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4379
had never hoped for the contentment of soul which now possessed me.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4380
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4381
"'You dog!' I said; 'I have hunted you from Salt Lake City to St.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4382
Petersburg, and you have always escaped me. Now, at last your wanderings
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4383
have come to an end, for either you or I shall never see to-morrow's sun
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4384
rise.' He shrunk still further away as I spoke, and I could see on his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4385
face that he thought I was mad. So I was for the time. The pulses in my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4386
temples beat like sledge-hammers, and I believe I would have had a fit
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4387
of some sort if the blood had not gushed from my nose and relieved me.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4388
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4389
"'What do you think of Lucy Ferrier now?' I cried, locking the door, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4390
shaking the key in his face. 'Punishment has been slow in coming, but it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4391
has overtaken you at last.' I saw his coward lips tremble as I spoke. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4392
would have begged for his life, but he knew well that it was useless.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4393
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4394
"'Would you murder me?' he stammered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4395
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4396
"'There is no murder,' I answered. 'Who talks of murdering a mad dog?
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4397
What mercy had you upon my poor darling, when you dragged her from her
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4398
slaughtered father, and bore her away to your accursed and shameless
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4399
harem.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4400
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4401
"'It was not I who killed her father,' he cried.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4402
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4403
"'But it was you who broke her innocent heart,' I shrieked, thrusting
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4404
the box before him. 'Let the high God judge between us. Choose and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4405
eat. There is death in one and life in the other. I shall take what you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4406
leave. Let us see if there is justice upon the earth, or if we are ruled
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4407
by chance.'
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4408
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4409
"He cowered away with wild cries and prayers for mercy, but I drew my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4410
knife and held it to his throat until he had obeyed me. Then I swallowed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4411
the other, and we stood facing one another in silence for a minute or
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4412
more, waiting to see which was to live and which was to die. Shall I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4413
ever forget the look which came over his face when the first warning
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4414
pangs told him that the poison was in his system? I laughed as I saw
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4415
it, and held Lucy's marriage ring in front of his eyes. It was but for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4416
a moment, for the action of the alkaloid is rapid. A spasm of pain
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4417
contorted his features; he threw his hands out in front of him,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4418
staggered, and then, with a hoarse cry, fell heavily upon the floor. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4419
turned him over with my foot, and placed my hand upon his heart. There
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4420
was no movement. He was dead!
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4421
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4422
"The blood had been streaming from my nose, but I had taken no notice of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4423
it. I don't know what it was that put it into my head to write upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4424
wall with it. Perhaps it was some mischievous idea of setting the police
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4425
upon a wrong track, for I felt light-hearted and cheerful. I remembered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4426
a German being found in New York with RACHE written up above him, and it
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4427
was argued at the time in the newspapers that the secret societies must
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4428
have done it. I guessed that what puzzled the New Yorkers would puzzle
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4429
the Londoners, so I dipped my finger in my own blood and printed it on
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4430
a convenient place on the wall. Then I walked down to my cab and found
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4431
that there was nobody about, and that the night was still very wild. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4432
had driven some distance when I put my hand into the pocket in which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4433
I usually kept Lucy's ring, and found that it was not there. I was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4434
thunderstruck at this, for it was the only memento that I had of her.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4435
Thinking that I might have dropped it when I stooped over Drebber's
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4436
body, I drove back, and leaving my cab in a side street, I went boldly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4437
up to the house--for I was ready to dare anything rather than lose
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4438
the ring. When I arrived there, I walked right into the arms of a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4439
police-officer who was coming out, and only managed to disarm his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4440
suspicions by pretending to be hopelessly drunk.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4441
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4442
"That was how Enoch Drebber came to his end. All I had to do then was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4443
to do as much for Stangerson, and so pay off John Ferrier's debt. I knew
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4444
that he was staying at Halliday's Private Hotel, and I hung about all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4445
day, but he never came out. [26] fancy that he suspected something when
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4446
Drebber failed to put in an appearance. He was cunning, was Stangerson,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4447
and always on his guard. If he thought he could keep me off by staying
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4448
indoors he was very much mistaken. I soon found out which was the window
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4449
of his bedroom, and early next morning I took advantage of some ladders
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4450
which were lying in the lane behind the hotel, and so made my way into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4451
his room in the grey of the dawn. I woke him up and told him that the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4452
hour had come when he was to answer for the life he had taken so long
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4453
before. I described Drebber's death to him, and I gave him the same
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4454
choice of the poisoned pills. Instead of grasping at the chance of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4455
safety which that offered him, he sprang from his bed and flew at my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4456
throat. In self-defence I stabbed him to the heart. It would have been
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4457
the same in any case, for Providence would never have allowed his guilty
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4458
hand to pick out anything but the poison.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4459
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4460
"I have little more to say, and it's as well, for I am about done up.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4461
I went on cabbing it for a day or so, intending to keep at it until I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4462
could save enough to take me back to America. I was standing in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4463
yard when a ragged youngster asked if there was a cabby there called
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4464
Jefferson Hope, and said that his cab was wanted by a gentleman at 221B,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4465
Baker Street. I went round, suspecting no harm, and the next thing I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4466
knew, this young man here had the bracelets on my wrists, and as neatly
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4467
snackled [27] as ever I saw in my life. That's the whole of my story,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4468
gentlemen. You may consider me to be a murderer; but I hold that I am
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4469
just as much an officer of justice as you are."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4470
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4471
So thrilling had the man's narrative been, and his manner was so
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4472
impressive that we had sat silent and absorbed. Even the professional
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4473
detectives, _blasé_ as they were in every detail of crime, appeared to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4474
be keenly interested in the man's story. When he finished we sat for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4475
some minutes in a stillness which was only broken by the scratching
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4476
of Lestrade's pencil as he gave the finishing touches to his shorthand
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4477
account.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4478
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4479
"There is only one point on which I should like a little more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4480
information," Sherlock Holmes said at last. "Who was your accomplice who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4481
came for the ring which I advertised?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4482
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4483
The prisoner winked at my friend jocosely. "I can tell my own secrets,"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4484
he said, "but I don't get other people into trouble. I saw your
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4485
advertisement, and I thought it might be a plant, or it might be the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4486
ring which I wanted. My friend volunteered to go and see. I think you'll
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4487
own he did it smartly."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4488
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4489
"Not a doubt of that," said Holmes heartily.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4490
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4491
"Now, gentlemen," the Inspector remarked gravely, "the forms of the law
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4492
must be complied with. On Thursday the prisoner will be brought before
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4493
the magistrates, and your attendance will be required. Until then I will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4494
be responsible for him." He rang the bell as he spoke, and Jefferson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4495
Hope was led off by a couple of warders, while my friend and I made our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4496
way out of the Station and took a cab back to Baker Street.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4497
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4498
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4499
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4500
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4501
CHAPTER VII. THE CONCLUSION.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4502
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4503
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4504
WE had all been warned to appear before the magistrates upon the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4505
Thursday; but when the Thursday came there was no occasion for our
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4506
testimony. A higher Judge had taken the matter in hand, and Jefferson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4507
Hope had been summoned before a tribunal where strict justice would
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4508
be meted out to him. On the very night after his capture the aneurism
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4509
burst, and he was found in the morning stretched upon the floor of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4510
cell, with a placid smile upon his face, as though he had been able
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4511
in his dying moments to look back upon a useful life, and on work well
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4512
done.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4513
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4514
"Gregson and Lestrade will be wild about his death," Holmes remarked, as
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4515
we chatted it over next evening. "Where will their grand advertisement
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4516
be now?"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4517
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4518
"I don't see that they had very much to do with his capture," I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4519
answered.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4520
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4521
"What you do in this world is a matter of no consequence," returned my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4522
companion, bitterly. "The question is, what can you make people believe
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4523
that you have done. Never mind," he continued, more brightly, after a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4524
pause. "I would not have missed the investigation for anything. There
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4525
has been no better case within my recollection. Simple as it was, there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4526
were several most instructive points about it."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4527
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4528
"Simple!" I ejaculated.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4529
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4530
"Well, really, it can hardly be described as otherwise," said Sherlock
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4531
Holmes, smiling at my surprise. "The proof of its intrinsic simplicity
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4532
is, that without any help save a few very ordinary deductions I was able
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4533
to lay my hand upon the criminal within three days."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4534
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4535
"That is true," said I.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4536
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4537
"I have already explained to you that what is out of the common is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4538
usually a guide rather than a hindrance. In solving a problem of this
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4539
sort, the grand thing is to be able to reason backwards. That is a very
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4540
useful accomplishment, and a very easy one, but people do not practise
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4541
it much. In the every-day affairs of life it is more useful to reason
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4542
forwards, and so the other comes to be neglected. There are fifty who
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4543
can reason synthetically for one who can reason analytically."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4544
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4545
"I confess," said I, "that I do not quite follow you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4546
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4547
"I hardly expected that you would. Let me see if I can make it clearer.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4548
Most people, if you describe a train of events to them, will tell you
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4549
what the result would be. They can put those events together in their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4550
minds, and argue from them that something will come to pass. There are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4551
few people, however, who, if you told them a result, would be able to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4552
evolve from their own inner consciousness what the steps were which led
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4553
up to that result. This power is what I mean when I talk of reasoning
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4554
backwards, or analytically."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4555
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4556
"I understand," said I.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4557
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4558
"Now this was a case in which you were given the result and had to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4559
find everything else for yourself. Now let me endeavour to show you the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4560
different steps in my reasoning. To begin at the beginning. I approached
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4561
the house, as you know, on foot, and with my mind entirely free from all
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4562
impressions. I naturally began by examining the roadway, and there, as I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4563
have already explained to you, I saw clearly the marks of a cab, which,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4564
I ascertained by inquiry, must have been there during the night. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4565
satisfied myself that it was a cab and not a private carriage by the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4566
narrow gauge of the wheels. The ordinary London growler is considerably
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4567
less wide than a gentleman's brougham.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4568
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4569
"This was the first point gained. I then walked slowly down the garden
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4570
path, which happened to be composed of a clay soil, peculiarly suitable
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4571
for taking impressions. No doubt it appeared to you to be a mere
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4572
trampled line of slush, but to my trained eyes every mark upon its
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4573
surface had a meaning. There is no branch of detective science which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4574
is so important and so much neglected as the art of tracing footsteps.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4575
Happily, I have always laid great stress upon it, and much practice
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4576
has made it second nature to me. I saw the heavy footmarks of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4577
constables, but I saw also the track of the two men who had first passed
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4578
through the garden. It was easy to tell that they had been before the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4579
others, because in places their marks had been entirely obliterated by
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4580
the others coming upon the top of them. In this way my second link was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4581
formed, which told me that the nocturnal visitors were two in number,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4582
one remarkable for his height (as I calculated from the length of his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4583
stride), and the other fashionably dressed, to judge from the small and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4584
elegant impression left by his boots.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4585
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4586
"On entering the house this last inference was confirmed. My well-booted
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4587
man lay before me. The tall one, then, had done the murder, if murder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4588
there was. There was no wound upon the dead man's person, but the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4589
agitated expression upon his face assured me that he had foreseen his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4590
fate before it came upon him. Men who die from heart disease, or any
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4591
sudden natural cause, never by any chance exhibit agitation upon their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4592
features. Having sniffed the dead man's lips I detected a slightly sour
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4593
smell, and I came to the conclusion that he had had poison forced upon
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4594
him. Again, I argued that it had been forced upon him from the hatred
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4595
and fear expressed upon his face. By the method of exclusion, I had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4596
arrived at this result, for no other hypothesis would meet the facts.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4597
Do not imagine that it was a very unheard of idea. The forcible
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4598
administration of poison is by no means a new thing in criminal annals.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4599
The cases of Dolsky in Odessa, and of Leturier in Montpellier, will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4600
occur at once to any toxicologist.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4601
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4602
"And now came the great question as to the reason why. Robbery had not
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4603
been the object of the murder, for nothing was taken. Was it politics,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4604
then, or was it a woman? That was the question which confronted me.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4605
I was inclined from the first to the latter supposition. Political
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4606
assassins are only too glad to do their work and to fly. This murder
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4607
had, on the contrary, been done most deliberately, and the perpetrator
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4608
had left his tracks all over the room, showing that he had been there
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4609
all the time. It must have been a private wrong, and not a political
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4610
one, which called for such a methodical revenge. When the inscription
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4611
was discovered upon the wall I was more inclined than ever to my
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4612
opinion. The thing was too evidently a blind. When the ring was found,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4613
however, it settled the question. Clearly the murderer had used it to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4614
remind his victim of some dead or absent woman. It was at this point
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4615
that I asked Gregson whether he had enquired in his telegram to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4616
Cleveland as to any particular point in Mr. Drebber's former career. He
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4617
answered, you remember, in the negative.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4618
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4619
"I then proceeded to make a careful examination of the room, which
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4620
confirmed me in my opinion as to the murderer's height, and furnished me
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4621
with the additional details as to the Trichinopoly cigar and the length
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4622
of his nails. I had already come to the conclusion, since there were no
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4623
signs of a struggle, that the blood which covered the floor had burst
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4624
from the murderer's nose in his excitement. I could perceive that the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4625
track of blood coincided with the track of his feet. It is seldom that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4626
any man, unless he is very full-blooded, breaks out in this way through
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4627
emotion, so I hazarded the opinion that the criminal was probably a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4628
robust and ruddy-faced man. Events proved that I had judged correctly.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4629
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4630
"Having left the house, I proceeded to do what Gregson had neglected. I
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4631
telegraphed to the head of the police at Cleveland, limiting my enquiry
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4632
to the circumstances connected with the marriage of Enoch Drebber. The
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4633
answer was conclusive. It told me that Drebber had already applied for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4634
the protection of the law against an old rival in love, named Jefferson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4635
Hope, and that this same Hope was at present in Europe. I knew now that
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4636
I held the clue to the mystery in my hand, and all that remained was to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4637
secure the murderer.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4638
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4639
"I had already determined in my own mind that the man who had walked
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4640
into the house with Drebber, was none other than the man who had driven
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4641
the cab. The marks in the road showed me that the horse had wandered
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4642
on in a way which would have been impossible had there been anyone in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4643
charge of it. Where, then, could the driver be, unless he were inside
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4644
the house? Again, it is absurd to suppose that any sane man would carry
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4645
out a deliberate crime under the very eyes, as it were, of a third
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4646
person, who was sure to betray him. Lastly, supposing one man wished
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4647
to dog another through London, what better means could he adopt than
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4648
to turn cabdriver. All these considerations led me to the irresistible
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4649
conclusion that Jefferson Hope was to be found among the jarveys of the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4650
Metropolis.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4651
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4652
"If he had been one there was no reason to believe that he had ceased to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4653
be. On the contrary, from his point of view, any sudden change would be
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4654
likely to draw attention to himself. He would, probably, for a time at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4655
least, continue to perform his duties. There was no reason to suppose
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4656
that he was going under an assumed name. Why should he change his name
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4657
in a country where no one knew his original one? I therefore organized
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4658
my Street Arab detective corps, and sent them systematically to every
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4659
cab proprietor in London until they ferreted out the man that I wanted.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4660
How well they succeeded, and how quickly I took advantage of it, are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4661
still fresh in your recollection. The murder of Stangerson was an
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4662
incident which was entirely unexpected, but which could hardly in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4663
any case have been prevented. Through it, as you know, I came into
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4664
possession of the pills, the existence of which I had already surmised.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4665
You see the whole thing is a chain of logical sequences without a break
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4666
or flaw."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4667
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4668
"It is wonderful!" I cried. "Your merits should be publicly recognized.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4669
You should publish an account of the case. If you won't, I will for
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4670
you."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4671
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4672
"You may do what you like, Doctor," he answered. "See here!" he
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4673
continued, handing a paper over to me, "look at this!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4674
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4675
It was the _Echo_ for the day, and the paragraph to which he pointed was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4676
devoted to the case in question.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4677
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4678
"The public," it said, "have lost a sensational treat through the sudden
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4679
death of the man Hope, who was suspected of the murder of Mr. Enoch
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4680
Drebber and of Mr. Joseph Stangerson. The details of the case will
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4681
probably be never known now, though we are informed upon good authority
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4682
that the crime was the result of an old standing and romantic feud, in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4683
which love and Mormonism bore a part. It seems that both the victims
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4684
belonged, in their younger days, to the Latter Day Saints, and Hope, the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4685
deceased prisoner, hails also from Salt Lake City. If the case has had
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4686
no other effect, it, at least, brings out in the most striking manner
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4687
the efficiency of our detective police force, and will serve as a lesson
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4688
to all foreigners that they will do wisely to settle their feuds at
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4689
home, and not to carry them on to British soil. It is an open secret
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4690
that the credit of this smart capture belongs entirely to the well-known
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4691
Scotland Yard officials, Messrs. Lestrade and Gregson. The man was
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4692
apprehended, it appears, in the rooms of a certain Mr. Sherlock Holmes,
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4693
who has himself, as an amateur, shown some talent in the detective
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4694
line, and who, with such instructors, may hope in time to attain to some
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4695
degree of their skill. It is expected that a testimonial of some sort
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4696
will be presented to the two officers as a fitting recognition of their
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4697
services."
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4698
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4699
"Didn't I tell you so when we started?" cried Sherlock Holmes with a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4700
laugh. "That's the result of all our Study in Scarlet: to get them a
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4701
testimonial!"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4702
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4703
"Never mind," I answered, "I have all the facts in my journal, and the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4704
public shall know them. In the meantime you must make yourself contented
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4705
by the consciousness of success, like the Roman miser--
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4706
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4707
            "'Populus me sibilat, at mihi plaudo
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4708
       Ipse domi simul ac nummos contemplor in arca.'"
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4709
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4710
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4711
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4712
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4713
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4714
ORIGINAL TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES:
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4715
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4716
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4717
[Footnote 1: Frontispiece, with the caption: "He examined with his glass
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4718
the word upon the wall, going over every letter of it with the most
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4719
minute exactness." (_Page_ 23.)]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4720
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4721
[Footnote 2: "JOHN H. WATSON, M.D.": the initial letters in the name are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4722
capitalized, the other letters in small caps. All chapter titles are in
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4723
small caps. The initial words of chapters are in small caps with first
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4724
letter capitalized.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4725
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4726
[Footnote 3: "lodgings.": the period should be a comma, as in later
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4727
editions.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4728
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4729
[Footnote 4: "hoemoglobin": should be haemoglobin. The o&e are
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4730
concatenated.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4731
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4732
[Footnote 5: "221B": the B is in small caps]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4733
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4734
[Footnote 6: "THE LAURISTON GARDEN MYSTERY": the table-of-contents
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4735
lists this chapter as "...GARDENS MYSTERY"--plural, and probably more
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4736
correct.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4737
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4738
[Footnote 7: "brought."": the text has an extra double-quote mark]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4739
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4740
[Footnote 8: "individual--": illustration this page, with the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4741
caption: "As he spoke, his nimble fingers were flying here, there, and
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4742
everywhere."]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4743
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4744
[Footnote 9: "manoeuvres": the o&e are concatenated.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4745
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4746
[Footnote 10: "Patent leathers": the hyphen is missing.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4747
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4748
[Footnote 11: "condonment": should be condonement.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4749
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4750
[Footnote 13: "wages.": ending quote is missing.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4751
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4752
[Footnote 14: "the first.": ending quote is missing.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4753
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4754
[Footnote 15: "make much of...": Other editions complete this sentence
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4755
with an "it." But there is a gap in the text at this point, and, given
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4756
the context, it may have actually been an interjection, a dash. The gap
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4757
is just the right size for the characters "it." and the start of a new
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4758
sentence, or for a "----"]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4759
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4760
[Footnote 16: "tho cushion": "tho" should be "the"]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4761
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4762
[Footnote 19: "shoving": later editions have "showing". The original is
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4763
clearly superior.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4764
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4765
[Footnote 20: "stared about...": illustration, with the caption: "One of
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4766
them seized the little girl, and hoisted her upon his shoulder."]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4767
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4768
[Footnote 21: "upon the": illustration, with the caption: "As he watched
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4769
it he saw it writhe along the ground."]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4770
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4771
[Footnote 22: "FORMERLY...": F,S,L,C in caps, other letters in this line
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4772
in small caps.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4774
[Footnote 23: "ancles": ankles.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4775
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4776
[Footnote 24: "asked,": should be "asked."]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4777
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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diff changeset
  4778
[Footnote 25: "poisions": should be "poisons"]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4779
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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diff changeset
  4780
[Footnote 26: "...fancy": should be "I fancy". There is a gap in the
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  4781
text.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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[Footnote 27: "snackled": "shackled" in later texts.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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  4784
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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[Footnote 29: Heber C. Kemball, in one of his sermons, alludes to his
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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diff changeset
  4786
hundred wives under this endearing epithet.]
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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End of Project Gutenberg's A Study In Scarlet, by Arthur Conan Doyle
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*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK A STUDY IN SCARLET ***
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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***** This file should be named 244-8.txt or 244-8.zip *****
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This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
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Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no
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PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH F3.  YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
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INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
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  5014
receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
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received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with
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  5017
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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  5018
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  5019
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  5020
providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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parents:
diff changeset
  5021
receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund.  If the second copy
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  5022
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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diff changeset
  5023
opportunities to fix the problem.
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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parents:
diff changeset
  5026
in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS' WITH NO OTHER
162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
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  5027
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parents:
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If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the
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and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4
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and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org.
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parents:
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throughout numerous locations.  Its business office is located at
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
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For additional contact information:
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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diff changeset
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spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
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International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
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Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation
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To donate, please visit: http://pglaf.org/donate
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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  5133
Professor Michael S. Hart is the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared
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parents:
diff changeset
  5135
with anyone.  For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project
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Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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162e3e453920 Added files to be circulated during workshops.
Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  5145
Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility:
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
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Puneeth Chaganti <punchagan@fossee.in>
parents:
diff changeset
  5149
This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,
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