JEPHRO RUCASTLE.
That is the letter which I have just received, Mr. Holmes, and my mind
is made up that I will accept it. I thought, however, that before
taking the final step I should like to submit the whole matter to your
consideration.
Well, Miss Hunter, if your mind is made up, that settles the
question, said Holmes, smiling.
But you would not advise me to refuse?
I confess that it is not the situation which I should like to see a
sister of mine apply for.
What is the meaning of it all, Mr. Holmes?
Ah, I have no data. I cannot tell. Perhaps you have yourself formed
some opinion?
Well, there seems to me to be only one possible solution. Mr. Rucastle
seemed to be a very kind, good-natured man. Is it not possible that his
wife is a lunatic, that he desires to keep the matter quiet for fear
she should be taken to an asylum, and that he humours her fancies in
every way in order to prevent an outbreak?
That is a possible solution in fact, as matters stand, it is the most
probable one. But in any case it does not seem to be a nice household
for a young lady.
But the money, Mr. Holmes, the money!
Well, yes, of course the pay is good too good. That is what makes me
uneasy. Why should they give you 120 a year, when they could have
their pick for 40? There must be some strong reason behind.
I thought that if I told you the circumstances you would understand
afterwards if I wanted your help. I should feel so much stronger if I
felt that you were at the back of me.
280