The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes Part 37 (2/2)

'You have been reco a man who is not only proficient in his profession but is also discreet and capable of preserving a secret'

”I bowed, feeling as flattered as any young ave ood a character?'

”'Well, perhaps it is better that I should not tell you that just at this moment I have it from the same source that you are both an orphan and a bachelor and are residing alone in London'

”'That is quite correct,' I answered; 'but you will excuse me if I say that I cannot see how all this bears upon my professional qualifications I understand that it was on a professional matter that you wished to speak to me?'

”'Undoubtedly so But you will find that all I say is really to the point I have a professional commission for you, but absolute secrecy is quite essential--absolute secrecy, you understand, and of course we may expect that more from a man who is alone than from one who lives in the bosom of his family'

”'If I promise to keep a secret,' said I, 'youso'

”He looked very hard at me as I spoke, and it see an eye

”'Do you promise, then?' said he at last

”'Yes, I pro, and after? No reference to the ?'

”'I have already given youup, and darting like lightning across the rooe outside was e back 'I know that clerks are sometimes curious as to their master's affairs Noe can talk in safety' He drew up his chair very close toand thoughtful look

”A feeling of repulsion, and of soe antics of this fleshlessa client could not restrainthat you will state your business, sir,' said I; 'ive me for that last sentence, but the words caht's work suit you?' he asked

”'Most adht's work, but an hour's would be nearer theear If you shohat is wrong we shall soon set it right ourselves What do you think of such a coht and the pay munificent'

”'Precisely so We shall want you to coht by the last train'

”'Where to?'

”'To Eyford, in Berkshi+re It is a little place near the borders of Oxfordshi+re, and within seven ton which would bring you there at about 11:15'

”'Very good'

”'I shall coe to meet you'

”'There is a drive, then?'

”'Yes, our little place is quite out in the country It is a good seven miles from Eyford Station'