Holmes was very
serious in his manner, myself curious, and the detectives
obviously critical and annoyed.
"Well, gentlemen," said my friend gravely, "I am asking you now
to put everything to the test with me, and you will judge for
yourselves whether the observations I have made justify the
conclusions to which I have come. It is a chill evening, and I
do not know how long our expedition may last; so I beg that you
will wear your warmest coats. It is of the first importance that
we should be in our places before it grows dark; so with your
permission we shall get started at once."
We passed along the outer bounds of the Manor House park until we
came to a place where there was a gap in the rails which fenced
it. Through this we slipped, and then in the gathering gloom we
followed Holmes until we had reached a shrubbery which lies
nearly opposite to the main door and the drawbridge. The latter
had not been raised. Holmes crouched down behind the screen of
laurels, and we all three followed his example.
"Well, what are we to do now?" asked MacDonald with some
gruffness.
"Possess our souls in patience and make as little noise as
possible," Holmes answered.
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