“TO THE RED-HEADED LEAGUE: On account of the bequest of the late Ezekiah

Hopkins, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, U.S.A., there is now another vacancy open

which entitles a member of the League to a salary of £ 4 a week for purely

nominal services. All red-headed men who are sound in body and mind and above

the age of twenty-one years, are eligible. Apply in person on Monday, at eleven

o’clock, to Duncan Ross, at the offices of the League, 7 Pope’s

Court, Fleet Street.”


“What on earth does this mean?” I ejaculated after I had twice read

over the extraordinary announcement.


Holmes chuckled and wriggled in his chair, as was his habit when in high

spirits. “It is a little off the beaten track, isn’t it?”

said he. “And now, Mr. Wilson, off you go at scratch and tell us all

about yourself, your household, and the effect which this advertisement had

upon your fortunes. You will first make a note, Doctor, of the paper and the

date.”


“It is The Morning Chronicle of April 27, 1890. Just two months

ago.”


“Very good. Now, Mr. Wilson?”


“Well, it is just as I have been telling you, Mr. Sherlock Holmes,”

said Jabez Wilson, mopping his forehead; “I have a small

pawnbroker’s business at Coburg Square, near the City. It’s not a

very large affair, and of late years it has not done more than just give me a

living. I used to be able to keep two assistants, but now I only keep one; and

I would have a job to pay him but that he is willing to come for half wages so

as to learn the business.”


“What is the name of this obliging youth?” asked Sherlock Holmes.


“His name is Vincent Spaulding, and he’s not such a youth, either.

It’s hard to say his age. I should not wish a smarter assistant, Mr.

Holmes; and I know very well that he could better himself and earn twice what I

am able to give him. But, after all, if he is satisfied, why should I put ideas

in his head?”


“Why, indeed? You seem most fortunate in having an employé who