PART 1 The Tragedy of Birlstone

Chapter 1 The Warning

"I am inclined to think -- " aforesaid I.

"I should do so," Private detective Holmes remarked impatiently.

I believe that I am one of the most long-suffering of mortals; but I'll admit that I was annoyed at the wry interruption.

"Really, Holmes," aforesaid I severely, "you are a little trying at times."

He was too more absorbed with his own thoughts to give any immediate answer to my remonstrance. He leaned upon his hand, with his untouched breakfast before him, and he stared at the slip of paper which he had simply drawn from its envelope. Then he took the envelope itself, control it up to the light, and really cautiously studied some the exterior and the flap.

"It is Porlock's writing," aforesaid he thoughtfully. "I