The adventures of Sherlock Holmes

engaged upon our toast and coffee in the morni

asping Sherlock Holmes by either shoul

t y

u have

ve ho

am all impatien

t have

rougham i

rs." We descended and started

s married," re

ied!

terd

to

sh lawyer na

could not

opes that

hy in

loves her husband, she does not love your Majesty. If she does not love your

! What a queen she would have made!" He relapsed into a moody si

y woman stood upon the steps. She watched us wit

Holmes, I beli

mpanion, looking at her with a qu

o call. She left this morning with her husband by t

k, white with chagrin and surprise. "

to re

sked the King hoars

d hurriedly ransacked them before her flight. Holmes rushed at the bell-pull, tore back a small sliding shutter, and, plunging in his hand, pulled out a photograph and a letter. The photograph was of Irene Adler herself in

t if the King employed an agent it would certainly be you. And your address had been given me. Yet, with all this, you made me reveal what you wanted to know. Even after I became suspicious, I found it hard to think evil of such a dear, kind old clergyman. But, you kno

ject of interest to the celebrated Mr. Sherlock Holmes. Then I, rather impru

rest in peace. I love and am loved by a better man than he. The King may do what he will without hindrance from one whom he has cruelly wronged. I keep it only to safeguard myself, and to

rs, "IRENE NORT

read this epistle. "Did I not tell you how quick and resolute she was? Would she

nt level to your Majesty," said Holmes coldly. "I am sorry that I have not

ould be more successful. I know that her word is inviolate

hear your Ma

can reward you. This ring-" He slipped an emerald snake ri

g which I should value eve

e but to

photog

red at him i

" he cried. "Certain

r to wish you a very good-morning." He bowed, and, turning away without observing the h

were beaten by a woman's wit. He used to make merry over the cleverness of women, but I have not heard him do it of late.