"Now, disclosure is no longer in the way," was Holmes's reply. When I asked for the tenth time in ten years to publish the following story, my companion gave me this simple answer. So I finally got permission.

, to make this important experience in my partner’s life public.

Holmes and I both have a hobby of taking saunas. In the steamy little room, in the comfortable and lazy atmosphere, I always feel that my partner is more approachable and more chatty than in other places. In the North

There is a quiet corner upstairs of the bathroom in Appleton Street, where two deck chairs sit side by side. The story I am telling begins with Holmes and I lying in this place on September 3, 1902. At that time,

I asked Holmes what interesting case he had. In answer, he suddenly stretched out his long and nimble hands from the sheets around him and took out an envelope from his coat pocket hanging beside him.

"This may be an arrogant idiot who likes to make a fuss, but it may really be a matter of life and death." My partner said while handing me the letter, "All I know is this little bit of what the letter says.

Son." The letter was sent from the Carlton Club last night. It read:

"Sir James Demery would like to pay his respects to Mr. Sherlock Holmes: I am scheduled to call at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon. I have to ask for advice on an extremely difficult matter. I must give you advice. If you are allowed, please call Carl

Dun Club informed."

"Watson, needless to say, I have made an appointment with him." When I handed the letter back, my partner said, "Do you know anything about Demoret?"

"All I know is that the name is well-known in the social world." "I can also tell you a little more. He has always been known for his ability to deal with difficult problems that are not suitable for publication in the newspapers. You may remember that in the case of Hamer

During the Volta Will Case, he negotiated with Sir Lewis! He is a man with diplomatic skills who is rarely known in the world. Therefore, I dare to say that this time he is probably not bluffing, and he really needs our help. "

"Our help?"

"Yes, Watson, if you will help." "I would be honored."

"Well, remember the time is 4:30 p.m. Until then, we'll put this issue aside for now."

At that time, I was living in an apartment on Anhou Street. I had already arrived at Baker Street before the appointed time.

At exactly 4:30 in the afternoon, Sir James Demery arrived. There is no need for me to describe him too much, because many people remember his straightforward and cheerful character, and his broad, clean-shaven cheeks.

Especially his mellow, cheerful tone; his gray Irish eyes, showing sincerity and frankness; his expressive lips, smiling, containing wit and humor; his top hat shining, wearing dark black clothes.

Tuxedo. In short, every part of his body, the beaded brooch on the black satin tie, the lavender shoe cover on the shiny leather shoes, etc., all show his famous dressy habits. This elegant, burly man

The aristocratic gentleman seemed to completely dominate the cabin.

"I am prepared to meet Dr. Watson here." Sir James Demery bowed and said, "His cooperation may be necessary, Mr. Holmes, because this time we are going to

What we are dealing with is a guy who is accustomed to using violence and is extremely daring. It can be said that he is one of the most dangerous people in Europe."

"Several of my former opponents have had this honorific title." My partner said with a smile, "You don't smoke, right? Then please allow me to light my pipe. If the guy you are talking about is more qualified than the late Melia

If Professor Emperor or Colonel Sebastian Moran, who is still alive today, is still in danger, then he is worth meeting for a while. What is his name?"

"Baron Gruner, have you heard of it?"

You mean, the Austrian murderer?

Sir James Demery raised his lambskin-gloved hands, laughed heartily, and said: "Mr. Holmes, if he is really yours, nothing can be hidden from you. So, he has been put on your list of murderers.

?”

"It is my important job to pay attention to criminal cases on the European continent. As long as anyone has read the news reports of the Prague incident, who will doubt this guy's heinous crime? Just because of a purely technical legal clause and an important witness

He died inexplicably and escaped legal punishment! As soon as the so-called 'accident' happened in Shipulugen Canyon, I was sure that his wife was murdered by him, just like I witnessed it with my own eyes. I also knew it.

, he has come to the UK, and has a premonition that sooner or later he will find me some work. So, what's wrong with Gruner now? I think this time will not be a repeat of the old tragedy, right?"

"No, this time the situation is more serious. Although it is important to sanction crimes, it is more important to prevent them before they happen. Mr. Holmes, you have witnessed a horrific incident, and a cruel scene has gradually become clear in front of you, knowing that it will

It's terrible to have such consequences and not be able to stop them. Is there anything more miserable for a living person than to be in such a situation?"

"yes!"

"I think you will sympathize with this client, and I am here to represent him."

"I didn't expect that you were just the middleman. So, who is the client?"

"Mr. Holmes, I ask you not to pursue this issue. I must do it so that the client's name is not involved in this case. His motives are absolutely pure and noble, but he does not want to be named. Of course, you

The remuneration is not a problem, and you can act completely freely. I think the name of the client should not matter much, right?"

"Excuse me," said my companion, "I am accustomed to a mystery only on one side of the case, and it would be very depressing if both were mysteries. Sir James Demery, in that case I can only

Refuse to participate in this case."

Sir James Demery couldn't help but panic. His usually cheerful and lively face became clouded with excitement and disappointment.

"Mr. Holmes, you have absolutely no idea what the consequences will be if you do this?" he said. "You are putting me in such a difficult position. I dare say that if I tell you the complete truth, you will think that the handling of this case is reliable."

It’s something to be proud of, but my promise doesn’t allow me to tell you everything. At least, let me tell you everything I can, okay?”

"Okay, but one thing I must make clear is that I didn't promise you anything," Holmes said.

"I agree. First of all, you must have heard of General Merville?"

"Demerville, who was famous at the Battle of Chambord? I have heard of him."

"The general has a daughter named Violet Demerville, who is full of youthful vitality, rich, beautiful, versatile, and in every way a particularly outstanding woman. We must do everything possible to escape from Gruner's clutches.

It was the general's daughter who was rescued, this lovely and innocent woman."

"You mean, Gruner has controlled Miss Violet?" "For women, it is the most powerful control - the control of love. You may have heard of this guy Gruner, he is extremely handsome.

, has a personable demeanor, a soft tone, and the kind of romantic and mysterious look that women like. It is said that many women are willing to be at his mercy, and he has made full use of this advantage."

"But how could a man like Gruner meet such a noble woman as Miss Violet?"

"Oh, that was when Miss Violet was traveling on a yacht in the Mediterranean. Although the organizers had restrictions on tourists at that time, they all paid for the travel themselves. The organizers were not sure about Gruner's situation, etc.

It was too late when I knew it. This bastard had entangled the noble Miss Violet. He had won her heart 100%. It was not enough to just say that she was in love with him. She was obsessed with him and completely fascinated by him.

It seems that there is no other man in the world except him. She does not allow others to say bad things about him. We tried every means to correct her crazy behavior, but to no avail. Simply put, she decided to marry him next month.

, because she has reached the legal age of marriage and her will is as strong as steel. We really don’t know how to stop her crazy behavior."

"Has she heard about the case in Austria?" "This sly bastard has told her every social scandal in his past, but he always portrayed himself as an innocent man. She absolutely

I believe what he said, she won’t listen to what others say at all.”

"You have inadvertently revealed the name of your client. He must be General De Merville."

Sir James Demery became a little restless and said: "Originally, I could hide it from you by following your words, but this is not true. Old Merville is already dejected. This originally strong old soldier has been

This incident has left him depressed and depressed. He has lost the courage that he had been tested for a long time in the war, and has become a frail old man. He no longer has any energy to compete with this handsome and strong Austrian bastard. My client

He is an old friend who has been with old Demerville for many years. He has cared for Miss Violet like a father since she was a child. He cannot just watch the tragedy happen without trying to stop it. Such a thing, London

It is difficult for the Police Department to intervene. He personally asked you to take charge of this case. However, as I said just now, he made a special condition, that is, he cannot be involved in this case. I also know that Mr. Holmes

, with your ability, it is not difficult to find out who my client is through me; but I ask you to use your reputation as a guarantee, you must not do this, and must not break this mystery."

My partner smiled strangely and said: "I can guarantee it. I also want to tell you that the case you mentioned has interested me and I am willing to take responsibility. But how can I contact you?"

"You can find me at the Carlton Club. In case of extreme emergency, there is a secret phone number: ××·31."

My partner wrote down the phone number, put the open address book on his lap with a smile still, sat there and asked: "Grüner's current address is..."

"Vernon House, near Kingston, is a big mansion. This bastard did some speculation and made a fortune by getting lucky, which makes him an even more difficult opponent to deal with."

"Is he staying at home now?" "Yes."

"Besides, can you provide some other information about Gruner?"

"He had some expensive hobbies. For example, he loved raising horses. At one time, he often played polo in Heringhan. Later, when the Prague incident about him spread, he had to leave. He also collected a lot of money.

Books, famous paintings, and a preference for artwork. I heard that he is a recognized authority on Chinese ceramics and has even written a book on it."

"Extraordinary talent." My partner commented, "Famous criminals often have this kind of talent. My old acquaintance Charlie Peace is a good violin player, and Wen Laite is also an extraordinary artist. In addition, there are

There are many cases. Well, Sir James Demery, please inform your client that I will start to study this guy Gruner. For now, that's all I can say, I personally have others

Intelligence sources, I believe that we will always find some way to change the situation."

After James Demery had gone, my companion sat there, lost in thought for a long time, seeming to have forgotten my existence, when at last he suddenly came to his senses and asked: "Watson, what are you doing?"

What do you think about this?”

"I think it would be best for you to pay a visit to Miss Violet in person."

"Dear Watson, if you think about it carefully, her poor old father can't impress her, how can I, a stranger, do it? Of course, if there is no other way, this suggestion is still worth a try. But I think,

We had to work from another angle, and I thought Shinwell Johnson might be able to help us."

In the memoirs of Sherlock Holmes I have not yet mentioned the person of Synwell Johnson, for I have seldom drawn from my companion's later experiences, and Synwell Johnson became a great figure only at the beginning of this century.

One of my partner's most effective assistants. Initially, he gained a reputation as a scoundrel and served two terms in Barkhurst Prison. Later he reformed and joined my partner, serving as Sherlock Holmes's eyes and ears in the London underworld.

, the information he provided often proved to be very important. If he had been an "undercover" of the police, he would have been exposed long ago. Because the cases he participated in never went directly to court, his "undercover"

His activities have never been discovered by his friends. And because he has the reputation of having served two sentences, he can freely enter and exit every nightclub, casino and private hotel in London. Coupled with his keen eyesight and flexible mind, he has become

I have found an ideal "undercover" to collect important information. Now, this is the person my partner is looking for.

It was impossible for me to keep abreast of the steps taken by Holmes at that time, for I had urgent business of my own to attend to. However, one evening I met Holmes at the Hinchson's restaurant, where we sat at a small table in front of the street window.

Looking down at the crowded sea of ​​people on Sterling Street, Holmes told me some recent situations.

"Xinwell Johnson is actively moving around." Holmes said, "Maybe he can get some important information in the dark corners of the underworld. Only in the criminal's base camp can we get some secrets.

"

"But since Miss Violet doesn't even believe the facts before her, then no matter what new discoveries you make, how can you change her opinion?"

"Watson, who dares to say! To men, a woman's heart is an incredible mystery. Murder may be tolerated or forgiven, but small violations may sting. Gruner said to me

explain……"

"Did this bastard talk to you?"

"Oh, yes, I haven't told you all my plans. Watson, I like to be directly with my opponent. I like to see face to face what kind of person he is. Before I talk to Xin Weier

After Johnson's instructions, I got into a carriage and went as far as Kingston, where I paid a visit to the cheerful baron."

"Did he recognize who you were?"

"Probably. Because I handed over my business card. He should be an outstanding opponent, as calm as ice, with a gentle tone of voice, and his appearance is as smooth as one of your high-society consultant doctors, but he is sinister inside.

Vicious but as vicious as a cobra. He is a well-educated and true criminal aristocrat. Under his decent social etiquette, there is a terrifying gloominess like a tomb. Yes, I am indeed very happy that someone asked me to deal with this baron.

"

"You just said that he is very easy-going and talkative?"

Just like a cat meowing with satisfaction after catching a mouse, the easy-going and talkativeness of some people are more terrifying than the violence of those with rough temperaments. Gruner's speech is very unique.

As soon as we met, he said: 'Mr. Holmes, I had expected to see you. It was probably General Demerville who asked you to prevent me from marrying his daughter, wasn't it?'

I'm not denying this.

Gruner said: 'By doing this, you will destroy your good reputation in the past. Originally, you were indeed well-deserved, but you have absolutely no hope of success in this case. You will waste your time, energy, not to mention the possibility of success.

It will lead to danger. I advise you to retreat bravely!'

I said: 'What a coincidence, this is exactly the advice I want to give you. Your Excellency, I respect your talent and wisdom very much, and when I meet you today, this respect has not diminished in the slightest. Please allow me not to

To put it politely, no one wants to expose what you did in the past and make you uncomfortable. The past is past, and now you are on a smooth journey, but if you insist on marrying Miss Violet,

Then, you will create a group of enemies who will never be kind and will make Britain unable to tolerate you. Is it worth it? Letting go is the best policy. If you tell Miss Violet what you have done in the past,

in your ears, then it will be unpleasant to you.'

There were two black and oily beards under Gruner's nose, like insect tentacles. When he listened to what I said above, these two beards trembled, and finally, he laughed softly.

Said: 'Mr. Holmes, please forgive my rude laughter, but it really amuses me to see you insisting on taking a gamble when you have no cards in your hand. I know that no one can do it better.

But they are all the same, which is very pitiful after all. To be honest, Mr. Holmes, you don't even have a flower card, only a very small card.'

'Do you think so?'

As far as I know, that's the case. Let me tell you clearly, because the cards in my hand are so good, it doesn't matter if I tell you. I was lucky enough to get Violet's infatuation, and I have put everything I have experienced in the past into it.

The unfortunate incident was told to her in full detail. I also told her that perhaps some person with ulterior motives--I hope you know your weight in this matter--would come to advise her. I had warned her in advance how to do it.

To deal with people like you. Mr. Holmes, you may have heard of the suggestion method of hypnosis, right? Then, you will find out how powerful this suggestion can be. Use hypnosis on a person with a personality, and

There is no need to adopt boring means or mediocre methods. Therefore, Violet is prepared for people like you. No doubt, she will also receive you, because she is obedient to her father's will-except for marrying me.

outside.

You see, Watson, there was nothing more to say, so I took my leave as calmly as I could, but when I had just put my hand on the doorknob, Gruner stopped me.

'By the way, Mr. Holmes.' he asked, 'do you know the French detective Leblanc?'

I said: 'I know.'

Gruner continued: 'Do you understand what happened to him?'

'I heard that he was seriously injured by gangsters in the Mengma District and will be disabled for life.'

Gruner said proudly: "That's right. What a coincidence. A week ago, Lebron had investigated the case about me. Mr. Holmes, please don't interfere, because this is an unlucky job.

Several guys have already asked for trouble. My last advice to you is: please take your Yangguan Road, and I will cross my single-plank bridge. We have nothing to do with each other. Goodbye!'

Watson, you see, this is the situation. At present, you are already aware of the development of the situation.

"It looks like this is a dangerous person." I said.

"An extremely dangerous guy. I'm not afraid of intimidation from him, but he is a first-class person in this regard."

"Dear Holmes, can't you just leave this matter alone? Does it really matter so much whether Miss Violet marries him or not?"

"If he did murder his ex-wife, I think this case is still of great importance. And what an extraordinary client this is! Well, let's not talk about it for now. After drinking coffee, what do you think?

You can come home with me, Xin Weier is waiting to report to me!"

I met Shinwell Johnson, a tall, rough-mannered fellow with a red face that looked like he had scurvy, and only a pair of smart black eyes that seemed to be the only source of his inner cunning mind.

Symbol. It seemed that he had just jumped into his unique world, because he brought out a person, the young woman sitting next to him. She was slender but had a bad temper. Her face was nervous and pale, although she

She is young, but she shows extremely decadent and haggard expression caused by sadness. It is obvious at a glance that time has left terrible traces on her face.

"This is Miss Kitty Winter." Xinwell Johnson waved his chubby hand as an introduction, and he said: "She knows everything - well, let her speak for herself. Mr. Holmes, continue

Less than an hour after I received your note, I brought her here."

"It's not hard to find me," said Kitty Winter. "I always stay in hell in London. Shinwell and I have the same address. We're old mates, Fatty, aren't we? But,

Damn it! There is such a bastard who deserves to go to nineteen levels of hell, if there is any justice in the world! This bastard is the guy you are going to deal with, Mr. Holmes."

My partner smiled slightly and said, "Miss Winter, I think you are willing to help us."

"If I can help you to get him the fate he deserves, then I will follow you honestly." Kitty Winter said fiercely through gritted teeth. Her pale face and eager expression were as bright as fire.

There was extremely strong hatred in his eyes, which was a peak state of hatred that men could never reach and only a very few women could achieve.

"Mr. Holmes, you don't need to know me in the past. It's irrelevant. However, Gruner is responsible for what I am now. I really hope I can pull him down." She raised her hands in the air.

He grabbed hold of him and said, "God, it would be great if I could pull him into the abyss into which he pushed so many people!"

"Do you understand the current situation?"

"Fat man has already told me. This time, that bastard is going to attack another stupid woman and wants to marry her. Are you going to stop this from happening? Of course, you know this bastard and must stop it.

Any innocent girl in her right mind should stay with him."

"However, the difficulty is that she is not mentally normal. She fell madly in love with him. He adapted everything he told her so that she didn't care about anything."

"She already knew about the murder?" "Yes."

"God, she's so brave!"

"She thought it was all a slander against him."

"Why don't you put the evidence under this stupid woman's nose and let her take a closer look?"

"That's what I think, but can you help us do that?"

"Am I not living proof? If I stand in front of her and tell her what that bastard did to me..."

"Are you willing to do this?"

"Why not?"

"You can give it a try. However, he has confessed his sins to her and received her forgiveness. I don't think she will talk about these issues again."

"I'm willing to bet he never told her everything," said Kitty Winter. "Besides that murder which caused a sensation, I have heard a little about two other murders of his.

He always spoke of someone in the gentle tone he was accustomed to using, and then looked me directly in the eyes and said: 'Within a month, he will die!' These were not alarmist words on his part. But I didn't know anything at the time.

Mind--you see, I was in love with him then too. His behavior was to me then what it is to this poor silly woman now. But there was one thing that shocked me deeply.

Yes, God, if it weren't for his cunning and sweet mouth trying to explain and comfort me, I would have left him that night. It was a notebook - a yellow leather notebook with a lock, and his gold notebook outside.

He asked for his family crest. He was most likely drunk that night, otherwise, he would never have shown me that notebook."

"What exactly is in the notebook?"

"Let me tell you, Mr. Holmes, this bastard likes to collect things about women, and is proud of it, just like someone likes to collect butterfly specimens. He keeps all the information about women in that notebook, including names, photos, and relationships.

Details, all the information about these women. This is a record of extremely obscene and shameless bestiality. No other man, even from the slums, would ever do such a thing. Adelbot Gru

Baron Nas, there is such a notebook. 'The souls of women I destroyed', he can inscribe such words on the cover of the notebook, as long as he likes to do so. However, this is all beside the point, because this notebook means a lot to you.

It’s of no use, and even if it were useful you wouldn’t get it.”

"Where is this notebook now?"

"How can I tell you where the notebook is now? I have been away from him for more than a year, and I only know where it was at that time. In many ways, he is like a cat who likes neatness and refinement.

Therefore, maybe the notebook is still kept by him in an old cupboard in the inner study room. Do you know his residence? "

"I've been in his study."

"Really? You just started taking charge of this case this morning. You are really fast. I think Gruner has met a good opponent this time. However, you should have entered the outer study.

The room with the Chinese porcelain - between the two windows, there is a large glass cabinet. Behind his desk, there is a door that leads directly to the inner study, which is a small room where he keeps important documents and other things.

"

"Isn't he afraid of thieves?"

"He is not a timid person. Even his enemies who hate him the most would not say this about him. He is fully capable of self-defense and has a burglar alarm at night. Besides, he has nothing to steal.

, except useless Chinese porcelain.”

"It's really useless." Shinwell Johnson said decisively in an expert's tone. "No one who buys stolen goods wants something that is both difficult to melt and difficult to sell."

"Yes." said my partner, "Miss Winter, if you can come here at 5 o'clock tomorrow afternoon, I will consider whether to arrange a meeting between you and Miss Violet based on your suggestion. For your cooperation,

I'm grateful. Needless to say, of course, my client will consider the reward generously..."

"No, Mr. Holmes," Kitty Winter said loudly, "I'm not here for the money. As long as I see this bastard fall into the shit heap, that's the best reward I can get - he

That's my reward for falling in a pile of shit and having my feet on his face. As long as you track him, I'll come tomorrow or any day, and Fatty can tell you where I am."

It wasn't until the next day, when we had dinner together again in the restaurant on Strand Street, that I saw my partner again. I asked him how the meeting went. He shrugged habitually, and then told him what happened.

I'll record it below. His description is a bit stiff and too simple. It needs to be edited to show the true nature of the matter.

"There was no difficulty in arranging their meeting," said my companion, for Miss Violet, in order to make up for her disobedience to her father in matters of marriage, exerted all her strength to show her obedience to her father in less important matters.

Old Demerville called to say that everything had been arranged at his place, and the hot-tempered Miss Winter also came as promised. So, at 5:30 pm, a carriage took us to Old Demerville's residence.

——No. 104 Bakery Square, which is a gray London castle that is more solemn than ordinary churches. The servants took us into a huge living room with yellow curtains, where Miss Violet was waiting.

We, she looked anxious and pale, but very calm, like a snowman in the mountains who cannot be stared at.

Watson, it is difficult for me to describe her beauty to you. Perhaps you can see her before the end of this case, and then you can use your wonderful pen. She is extremely beautiful, like a fairy.

The beauty is unique to those crazy believers who think about angels in the upper world. I have only found such beautiful faces in the paintings of medieval masters. I can't imagine how a beast can put his claws away.

To such a woman who belongs to the angels in the upper world. You may have discovered the phenomenon of two opposite extremes attracting each other. For example, the spirit attracts the body, and the brutality attracts the angels. However, you will never find anything better than this one.

Things got even worse.

Of course, Miss Violet already knew the purpose of our visit to her - the bastard had already vaccinated her. Miss Winter's appearance seemed to surprise her a little, but she still waved and asked us to sit down, as if she was respectable.

The abbess is like a beggar. Watson, if you want to expand your mind, you must learn from Miss Violet.

She said in a voice that seemed to come from an iceberg: "Mr. Holmes, I am very familiar with your famous name. In my opinion, you are most likely here to separate me from my fiancé, Baron Gruner. I obey."

I will meet you only after my father ordered me to do so. I will speak first. No matter what you say, it will not have the slightest impact on me.'

Watson, I feel so sorry for Miss Violet. At that time, I felt for her as I felt for my daughter. I am not a man of words, and what I am good at using is mainly my brain, not my emotions.

But I spoke to her with all the sweet words that came from my heart. I described to her the terrible position a woman would be in if she discovered her husband's true nature only after marriage, and what a wife she had to submit to.

The embrace of my husband's bloody hands. I hid nothing from her - I told her about the humiliation, pain, terror and despair after marriage. However, all my warm words failed to make her

A trace of blood added to her ivory-white cheeks, and it did not make a trace of emotion appear in her dull eyes. I thought of the hypnotic state Gruner talked about. Her appearance really made people feel that she was living far away from the hustle and bustle.

In her sweet dream. However, her answer was decisive.

She said: 'Mr. Holmes, I listened patiently to what you said, but it had no effect on me. Because, I know, my fiancé Adelbot has encountered twists and turns, and even aroused strong hatred from some people, or

Unfair slander. Many people have come here to slander him. I hope that you are the last slanderer. Maybe you have good intentions, but I heard that you are a hired detective who is against my fiancé or his husband.

It's the same for you to be employed by him. However, no matter what, I hope you will understand this time: he loves me, I love him, and the opinions of the whole world are deaf to me. If you say

His noble temperament is a little off, so I was specially sent by God to help him restore his true noble temperament." At this point, her eyes fell on Miss Winter and said, "But, I don't know.

Who is this lady?'

I was just about to make an introduction when Miss Winter spoke like a whirlwind. Watson, if you want to see what fire and ice look like face to face, then please take a look at these two women.

Miss Winter suddenly jumped up from her chair and said: 'Let me tell you who I am. I am Adelbot Gruner's last mistress. I am one of the hundreds who were seduced, insulted, and finally...

One of the women who was abandoned like trash, just like what he is about to do to you. Your personal destination, maybe the grave, is the best. I tell you, stupid woman, if you marry

This stinky man will definitely kill you. It is very likely that he will break your heart or even kill you. What he will bring you is either this single-plank bridge or that single-plank bridge. I am not saying this out of feelings for you.

After all, I don't care at all whether you die or not. I do it entirely out of resentment towards him and for revenge. I will repay him how he treated me. However, no matter what, you also

There's no need to stare at me so hard, miss. In less than three and a half days, you may become even less valuable than me.'

Miss Violet said coldly: 'I don't think we need to talk any more. The last thing I want to say is that I know that my fiancé has been entangled with deceitful women three times in his life. I am convinced that no matter what he has done,

The mistakes have been corrected long ago.'

'Three times!' shrieked Miss Winter, 'you stupid woman! You double fool!'

Miss Violet said in her cold voice: 'Mr. Holmes, I beg you to end this interview! I came to see you in compliance with my father's orders, but I did not come to listen to her crazy screams.'

Miss Winter cursed loudly and rushed forward. If I hadn't grabbed her wrist, she would have grabbed the hair of the irritating Miss Violet. I pulled Miss Winter

When we got to the door, I luckily pulled her into the carriage without any fuss. To be honest with you, Watson, despite my calm appearance, I was also very angry because in this world, the pretentiousness and abnormality of the woman we wanted to save

There is something really off-putting in his calmness.

The above is what I have experienced, and now you know it. It seems that I have to find another way, because the first way has lost its effect. I will keep in touch with you, Watson, and maybe I will use it again.

Gotta get you. But maybe the next step is for them to do, not us.

Indeed, their retaliation came quickly - I should say Gruner's retaliation, because I still did not believe that Miss Violet was involved in this matter. I still clearly remember that I was standing on the sidewalk that day.

On that tile, right there, my eyes fell on a billboard, and a shiver of terror passed through my soul. It was between a big hotel and Charing Cross station, a one-legged newspaper seller.

The man was placing his evening newspaper there. The date was exactly two days after my last interview with Holmes. Written in black letters and yellow background was the terrible headline-The famous private detective Sherlock Holmes was murdered! I remember, I stood there dumbfounded.

After a while. Then, I grabbed a newspaper in a panic, but forgot to pay, and was scolded a few times by the newspaper seller. Finally, I stood in front of a drug store and found the news report, which read:

"We regretfully learned that the famous private detective Mr. Holmes was murdered and sexually assaulted this morning. His condition is very critical and no detailed reports have been obtained so far. It is said that the incident occurred outside the Loyal Café on Licking Street before 12 o'clock.

Mr. Holmes was violently attacked by two men with sticks and suffered injuries to his head and body. According to the doctor's diagnosis, the injuries were quite serious. Mr. Holmes was immediately sent to Charing Cross Hospital and was later sent back to Baker due to his repeated persistence.

It is said that the attacker was well-dressed. After the attack, he quickly passed through the Loyal Café and fled towards Grathhouse Street. It is estimated that the murderer belongs to a crime that is often solved by Mr. Holmes’s shrewd investigation.

Gang.”

I only glanced briefly at the news report, jumped into a carriage and went straight to Baker Street. In the drawing room, I met Sir Leslie Oakeshott, the famous surgeon, whose carriage was parked outside the door.

"It's not life-threatening." Lesley Oakeshott told me. "There are mainly two scalp lacerations and several serious bruises. I have had stitches and morphine injections. I should rest quietly. However,

It’s okay to have a quick conversation for a few minutes.”

I walked gently into Holmes's dark bedroom. He was awake, and I heard his weak hoarse voice calling my name. The curtains were drawn, but a ray of slanting sunlight shone in, illuminating Holmes's bandaged body.

There was a bright red blood stain on his head, soaked into the white gauze. I lowered my head and sat down next to him.

"Dear Watson, don't be afraid." Holmes said in a weak voice, "The situation is not as serious as it seems."

"Thank God!"

"As you know, I am an expert in stick shooting. I can definitely deal with the first guy, but when the second guy comes up, I can't handle it."

"Dear Holmes, what can I do for you? Of course, that bastard must have instigated these two guys to do it. As long as you speak, I will expose his skin immediately!"

"Dear Watson, old man! We can't use violence like them. We can only let the police arrest them. However, they are already prepared to escape from the law. I can be sure of this. Just watch, I have

My plan. First, exaggerate my injuries as much as possible. They will definitely come to you to inquire about information. You have to exaggerate. For example, if you can live for a week, you will be lucky, have a concussion, or be in a vegetative state - whatever you want! Exaggerate.

The more serious it is, the better.”

"How does Sir Lesley Oakshot respond?"

"He's easy to handle. He will find out my most serious situation, and I will find a way."

"What else do you want me to do?"

"Tell Xinwell Johnson to tell Miss Winter to hide. Those guys will definitely cause trouble for her. Of course, they already know that she is my assistant in this case. Since they dare to deal with me, they will not ignore it.

She, this matter is urgent and must be done tonight."

"I'll do it right away. Is there anything else?"

"Put my pipe on the table—and my tobacco slippers. Well, you come here every morning and we discuss our next steps."

That evening, Synwell Johnson and I arranged for Kitty Winter to take a temporary refuge in a remote suburb.

For six days, the public believed that Holmes was in a dying state. The reports on his condition were very serious, and some bad news was published in the newspapers. However, my daily visits made it clear to me that the situation was not bad. Holmes

That iron-clad body and tenacious will worked miracles. His health recovered quickly. Sometimes, I guess, his actual recovery speed was faster than he pretended. Holmes has a character that likes to keep secrets.

, often causing dramatic effects, but often even his closest friends have to guess what his intentions are. "Only those who plan alone are safe." This motto was implemented to an extreme by him. I

I am closer to him than anyone else, but I still often feel that there is some gap between me and him.

On the 7th day, the stitches on Holmes's wound had been removed, but the newspaper reported that he had an attack of erysipelas. On this day's evening newspaper, there was a piece of news that I had to tell Holmes, whether he was really sick or fake. This

The news briefly reported that this Friday, on the passenger list of the Junard ship Lulitania sailing from Liverpool, there was Baron Adelbot Gruner, who will go to the United States to deal with important property issues.

, come back and hold a wedding ceremony with Miss Violet Demerville, the only daughter of this distinguished old general, etc.

When I read this message, my partner's pale face showed a look of absolute calmness and concentration, but I could see that he had been somewhat shocked.

"Friday!" Holmes shouted, "There are only three days left. I thought this bastard wanted to avoid danger. But he definitely can't run away. Watson, I guarantee he can't run away! Now, please help me

Do something."

"I'm just here to do something for you."

"Well, okay, please start from now on and spend 24 hours studying Chinese porcelain wholeheartedly." Holmes didn't explain anything, and I didn't ask any questions. Long-term experience has taught me to obey my partners.

However, when I left Holmes's residence and walked to Baker Street, my mind began to wonder how on earth I could carry out such a strange order. I took a carriage to the London Library in St. James's Square and put the problem in my hands.

I have a friend named Roman Cos, who is the deputy administrator of the library. Later, I returned to my residence with a large book in my arms.

Rumor has it that a lawyer who carefully recorded the facts of a case and was able to question witnesses on the following Monday had forgotten everything he had barely learned before Saturday. Of course, I do not claim to be an authority on Chinese porcelain.

.However, that whole night (except for a short break) and the whole morning of the next day, I did study hard and memorize a lot of terms. From that tome, I learned about the seals of famous porcelain artists.

China's mysterious Jiazi chronology, the symbols of Hongwu and Yongle, Tang Bohu's calligraphy, and the prosperous times of China's early Song and Yuan Dynasties, etc. When I went to visit my partner the next night, my mind was filled with all this

New knowledge. Holmes was already able to ambulate, which you wouldn't have guessed from the newspaper reports. He held his bandaged head in his hands and sat in his accustomed easy chair.

"My dear Holmes," I said, "what if anyone believed the newspapers that you were dying?"

"That..." he said, "is exactly the impression I want to create on my opponent. What are your learning results?"

"I've tried my best."

"Very well, can you talk to an expert on this issue?" "I think, yes."

"Please hand me the little box on the mantelpiece."

Holmes opened the lid of the small box and took out a small object wrapped in oriental silk. Then he opened the package again and revealed a small saucer, dark blue and quite exquisite.

"This thing must be handled with caution. This is genuine Chinese carved porcelain from the Ming Dynasty. Even in the Kelisidi market, there is no better one than this. The whole set is priceless -

—In fact, it’s hard to say whether there is a complete set of them besides the Forbidden City in Beijing. A true collector’s eyes will light up when he sees this thing.”

"What do I do with this?"

My companion handed me a business card, printed on it: "Dr. Sill Barton, 369 Half Moon Street."

"This is your identity tonight, Watson. You go to visit Gruner. I know some of his living habits. He is free at about 8 o'clock in the night. You write him a letter in advance and tell him that you are going to visit.

And tell him that you will bring him a rare piece of Ming Dynasty porcelain. You call yourself a doctor, and you can play this role realistically. You just say that you are an amateur collector, and you happened to get this set of treasures. You have heard about him.

I have a hobby in this area, and you are not opposed to selling this set of Chinese porcelain at a high price."

"How much?"

"That's a good question. If you don't know the price of your goods, your operation will definitely fail. This dish was brought by Sir James Demery. It is part of his client's collection. He said that it is unique in the world.

, not too much.”

"How about I propose an appraisal by an expert?"

"It's very clever! Watson, you are really inspired. You can propose the Crested Market, etc. Don't propose the price yourself."

"What if Gruner refuses to see me?"

"He will meet you! Because his passion for collecting has reached an extremely strong level, especially in the area of ​​Chinese porcelain. In this area, he is a recognized expert authority. Watson, sit down and I will read the letter.

The content of the letter does not require a reply, just state that you want to visit and explain the reason for the visit."

This short letter was well written, politely worded, and could arouse the curiosity of the collector. We immediately sent a street messenger to deliver it. That night, I took the precious saucer with Syl...

Doctor Barton’s business card was given to him, so he took the risk.

The splendor of the grounds suggests that Gruner was very wealthy, as Sir James Demery said. A winding path, lined with precious shrubs, leads to the garden, which is decorated with statues. The house originally

It was built by a South African gold mining king. The long, low house with a turret is like a nightmare in terms of architecture and looks a bit gloomy, but judging from its scale and solidity, it is very...

Spectacular. An extraordinary butler took me to the hall and handed me over to a footman wearing gorgeous plush clothes. The footman then brought me to Gruner.

Gruner was standing in front of a large open cabinet between two windows, which displayed part of his collection of Chinese porcelain. When I entered the room, he turned around, holding a brown vase in his hand.

.

"Doctor Barton, please sit down!" he said: "I am reviewing my collection. I wonder if I can still afford a high price to add new treasures. You see, this small vase was made in the Tang Dynasty, in the seventh century.

It's an antique, you may be interested in it. I believe it is the most exquisite craftsmanship and the most beautiful porcelain glaze. Have you brought the Ming Dynasty plate you mentioned?"

I opened the package carefully first, and then handed him the precious saucer. He sat down in front of the desk and pulled the lamp closer. It was getting darker and darker, and he began to admire the saucer carefully, and the yellow light shone on him.

On his face, I looked at his appearance calmly. He is indeed a handsome man, known as the "Beautiful Man of Europe", and he is indeed well-deserved. He is of moderate stature, elegant and agile. His face is dark, close to the East.

He has dark and bright, slightly tired, big eyes, which are absolutely attractive to the opposite sex. His temples are black, and his beard is short and neat. His facial features are regular and pleasing to the eye, but his lips are a little thin. If I

I have seen the mouth of a murderer, so here it is - it is a cut on his face, which looks cold and ferocious, with tight mouth corners, and an expression of coldness and intimidation. He raised the corners of his beard, revealing

The corner of his mouth was unwise, because it became a natural warning of danger. His tone was elegant and measured, and his manners were suave. In terms of age, I thought he had just passed his thirties, but I later realized that he was already in his forties.

"Good! It's really good!" Gruner finally spoke, "Dr. Barton, you said you have a set of six. The strange thing is that I have never heard of such a beautiful treasure. I know that in the UK

There is only one that can match it, but it will never be circulated on the market. If you are not offended, how did you get it?"

"It doesn't seem to have much to do with it, does it?" I said in the most nonchalant tone, "Anyway, you can already see that it is genuine. As for the price, how about we listen to the experts?"

"It's really too mysterious." There was a trace of doubt in his big black eyes as he said: "To make a deal on such a precious thing, of course, I want to find out all the details of it. Indeed, it is genuine, yes.

I have no doubt about this. However, I must anticipate all possible situations, for example, what if it turns out later that you have no right to sell it?"

"I promise, nothing like this will ever happen."

"Naturally, this leads to another question, what is the significance of your guarantee?"

“My credit can take responsibility for this!”

"This deal still feels so weird to me."

"It's up to you whether to make a deal or not." I said, pretending to be nonchalant, "I chose to find you first because I know you are a famous connoisseur. However, I won't have any difficulty in closing the deal elsewhere."

"I am a famous connoisseur, who told you?"

"I understand that you have written a book on this subject." "Oh, have you read my book?"

"Not yet read."

"This is making me more and more confused! You claim to be an amateur collector, and a collector of rare treasures, but you are unwilling to consult books that can tell you the value of the things you collect. How do you proceed?

What’s the explanation?”

"I am a very busy person. I am busy treating diseases and saving people all day long."

"You didn't answer the question, you know? If a person really has a hobby, he will always spend time and energy studying it, no matter what other business he has, and you said in your letter that you are an amateur collector."

"I am just an amateur collector!"

"Can I ask you a few questions, I must test you? I'll be honest with you, Dr. Barton, if you are really a doctor - the situation is getting more and more suspicious. Please tell me, do you know Emperor Shomu?

And his relationship with Shoso-in near Nara? What’s the matter, you feel clueless? Or, please talk about the position of the Northern Wei Dynasty in the history of Chinese porcelain."

I jumped up pretending to be angry.

"Your Excellency, Baron, you are simply going too far." I said, "I am here to give you face, not to be lectured by you as a student. Although my knowledge of Chinese porcelain is inferior to yours, I cannot answer your question like this."

Rude question."

Gruner stared at me, the laziness in his eyes completely disappeared. His eyes suddenly became extremely sharp, and teeth flashed between his cruel lips.

"You must be a spy! You must be Sherlock Holmes's spy! Do you want to fool me? I heard that Sherlock Holmes is dying, and he wants to send you to touch my bottom. Okay! You entered my residence. But

It's easy for you to come in, but it's hard to get out!" He jumped up from the chair, and I took a step back, ready to wait for him to rush forward, because he was already furious. Perhaps, he doubted me from the beginning; perhaps, he asked

This exposed me. He reached into a small drawer and rummaged through it frantically. At this time, something came to his ears, and he stood there listening.

"Okay!" he shouted, "Okay!" He rushed into the small room behind him.

I walked to the door in one quick step. I will never forget that scene. The large window leading to the garden was open, and Holmes stood in front of the window like a ghost. His head was wrapped in a bandage, stained with blood, and his face was pale. However, in an instant,

After a while, he disappeared again, and I heard the rustle of the leaves as he brushed against it. Gruner roared and rushed to the window.

It was too late, but it was soon. I saw clearly, and suddenly an arm - a woman's arm stretched out from the bushes. In an instant, I heard Gruner let out a frightening scream -

- This scream will always be engraved in my memory. He covered his face with his hands and ran around the room, banging his head against the wall. Then, he fell to the carpet and rolled around, making a sharp scream.

The call echoed in the room.

"Water! For God's sake, bring me water!" Gruner said.

I picked up a water bottle from the coffee table and ran towards him. At this time, the butler and several male servants also arrived. When I knelt down with one leg and turned the injured Gruner's face to the light, there was a servant

He was so frightened that he went into shock. The sulfuric acid had corroded Gruner's entire face, dripping from his ears, chin, etc. One eye was red and swollen, and the other was covered with white shadow. The beautiful facial features I was admiring just a few minutes ago

, now it is like an originally beautiful oil painting that has been smeared messily by the painter with a thick sponge. His facial features have been blurred and discolored, and he has lost his normal face shape, looking extremely terrifying.

I briefly explained to the butler and several male servants what had just happened. Some male servants climbed up to the window, and another male servant had rushed to the grass. However, it was already dark and it started to rain again. Ge was injured.

While Luna was yelling, he scolded the vengeful woman who threw acid.

"She is Winter, the succubus!" Gruner shouted, "She can't run away from this succubus! God, it hurts me to death."

I first applied oil to Gruner's face, then bandaged him, and then gave him an injection of morphine. In the face of this sudden disaster, his doubts about me were completely eliminated, and he held my hand tightly, as if

I have the power to save his dead fish-like eyes. If I hadn't thought of his series of evil deeds and that he deserved his own retribution, then I might have sympathized with him for having his beauty ruined.

At this moment, all I felt was disgust at his hot hand holding mine, so when his family doctor and other consulting doctors arrived, I felt relieved and breathed a sigh of relief. In addition,

A policeman came on patrol, and I handed him my real business card. It would have been foolish not to do so, for the Metropolitan Police knew my appearance almost as well as they did Sherlock Holmes.

Next, I left this gloomy house, and in less than an hour I arrived at Baker Street.

My companion was sitting in his usual easy chair, his face a little pale, not only because of his injury, but also because his steely nerves were shocked by tonight's unexpected events. He listened to my narrative

Gruner's deformed face.

"This is the price of sin, the price of sin!" said Holmes. "Sooner or later it will be the result. God knows, this guy is full of evil and heinous."

Then, Holmes picked up a yellow notebook from the table and said: "This is the notebook Miss Winter was talking about. If it can't cancel this marriage, then I'm afraid nothing in the world can do anything about it. However, I think

, it can completely achieve its purpose, which is something that no self-respecting woman can tolerate."

"Is this Gruner's love note?"

"It should be called his notebook, but you can call it whatever you want. When Miss Winter first mentioned this notebook, I already knew that once we could get our hands on it, it would be a most powerful document."

Evidence or weapons. At that time, I said nothing, because women are easy to tell. However, I kept thinking about how to get it. Later, they wounded me, giving me the opportunity to make Gruner think that he had no defense against me.

necessary. This is the most advantageous. Originally, I planned to wait a few more days before talking, but Gruner's upcoming trip to the United States accelerated my actions. He would never leave such a revealing thing at home. Therefore, I

You must take action immediately. It is obviously impossible to steal at night. He must be very careful. But if you can attract his attention, it will create a good opportunity. This requires you and the equipment you brought.

The blue saucer is a treasure. But I must find out where this notebook is. I understand that I have only a few minutes to take action, Watson, and my time to take action is limited by your knowledge of Chinese porcelain.

Therefore, I still invited Miss Winter. How could I know what the small bag she secretly hid in her arms was? I thought she was here solely for my mission. Who would have expected

She also has her own special mission."

"Dear Holmes, Gruner has guessed that I was sent by you."

"This is what I fear most. However, you held Gruner long enough for me to get the notebook, but not long enough for me to escape safely." said Holmes. "Sir James Demery,

welcome!"

The courteous Sir James Demery, who had been invited, had been listening attentively to my companion's account of events.

"You have performed a miracle! A veritable miracle!" Sir James Demery said after hearing this: "If your injury is as serious as said, we can cancel the marriage without using a notebook."

My partner shook his head in disagreement.

"A woman like Miss Violet will not act according to common sense. She will only regard Gruner as a disfigured martyr and love him even more. No, it is definitely not to destroy his appearance.

It's his so-called morality, that's what we want to destroy. This notebook will wake up Miss Violet. I think this is the only thing in the world that can make her calm. This is what Gruner wrote personally.

, how could she believe it?"

Sir James Demery took away his notebook and precious saucer. As I had some business of my own to attend to, I went out with him into the street. A carriage was waiting for him. He jumped

After getting on the carriage, he hurriedly said a word to the coachman, and the carriage drove off in a hurry.

Sir James Demery hung half of his coat on the carriage window to hide the family crest on the carriage, but I could see it clearly by the light from a transom window. I was startled and turned around

Just ran upstairs to my partner's house.

"Dear Holmes, I have discovered who our client is." I reported my new news excitedly. "Who did I think it was? It turns out to be..."

"I know, he is a loyal friend and a generous gentleman." My companion raised his hand to stop me, "Watson, there is no need to say anything more."

I don't know how this diary that exposed Gruner's crimes was used. It may have been handled by Sir James Demery, or more likely he gave it directly to Miss Violet's father for processing.

.In short, the effect is very good.

Three days later, a report appeared in the morning paper: the wedding of Baron Adelbot Gruner and Mademoiselle Violet de Merville had been cancelled.

The same newspaper also published the first criminal court trial of Kitty Winter, who was charged with injury by throwing acid. However, various circumstances were revealed during the trial, and the result was extenuating circumstances.

, Kitty Winter was sentenced to the minimum sentence for such a crime.

Holmes was also going to be charged with the crime of theft. However, because the purpose was good and the client was prominent, even the usually unscrupulous British courts became more humane, and my partner was never summoned by the court.

【Legal Commentary】

There are two legal issues involved in this case: the first is the case of intentional injury. The crime of intentional injury refers to the act of illegally and intentionally damaging the health of others. In the story, Sherlock Holmes was beaten, and Kitty Winter’s attack on Adelbot.

Both acts of Gruner throwing sulfuric acid are typical intentional injuries.

The second question is whether Holmes’ acquisition of the diary constitutes the crime of theft. The crime of theft refers to the act of stealing a large amount of public or private property for the purpose of illegal possession, or stealing public or private property multiple times. From the story, we can see that Holmes did not commit the crime of illegal possession.

For the purpose, it does not constitute the crime of theft; and Holmes's behavior is not legal. His behavior constitutes the crime of illegal search. The crime of illegal search refers to the illegal search of another person's body or residence by a person without the right to search.
Chapter completed!