There was a long silence, during which Holmes leaned his chin upon his
hands and stared into the crackling fire.
This is a very deep business, he said at last. There are a thousand
details which I should desire to know before I decide upon our course
of action. Yet we have not a moment to lose. If we were to come to
Stoke Moran to-day, would it be possible for us to see over these rooms
without the knowledge of your stepfather?
As it happens, he spoke of coming into town to-day upon some most
important business. It is probable that he will be away all day, and
that there would be nothing to disturb you. We have a housekeeper now,
but she is old and foolish, and I could easily get her out of the way.
Excellent. You are not averse to this trip, Watson?
By no means.
Then we shall both come. What are you going to do yourself?
I have one or two things which I would wish to do now that I am in
town. But I shall return by the twelve o clock train, so as to be there
in time for your coming.
And you may expect us early in the afternoon. I have myself some small
business matters to attend to. Will you not wait and breakfast?
No, I must go. My heart is lightened already since I have confided my
trouble to you. I shall look forward to seeing you again this
afternoon. She dropped her thick black veil over her face and glided
from the room.
And what do you think of it all, Watson? asked Sherlock Holmes,
leaning back in his chair.
It seems to me to be a most dark and sinister business.
Dark enough and sinister enough.
180