indoors in the morning. You need not, however, go to the expense of purchasing

one, as we have one belonging to my dear daughter Alice (now in Philadelphia),

which would, I should think, fit you very well. Then, as to sitting here or

there, or amusing yourself in any manner indicated, that need cause you no

inconvenience. As regards your hair, it is no doubt a pity, especially as I

could not help remarking its beauty during our short interview, but I am afraid

that I must remain firm upon this point, and I only hope that the increased

salary may recompense you for the loss. Your duties, as far as the child is

concerned, are very light. Now do try to come, and I shall meet you with the

dog-cart at Winchester. Let me know your train. Yours faithfully,


“‘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!”