Page:The Valley of Fear.pdf/159

Rh when everything was fixed, he rang the bell for all he was worth. What happened afterward you know. And so, Gentlemen, you can do what you please; but I’ve told you the truth and the whole truth, so help me God! What I ask you now is how do I stand by the English law?”

There was a silence which was broken by Sherlock Holmes.

“The English law is in the main a just law. You will get no worse than your deserts from that, Mr. Douglas. But I would ask you how did this man know that you lived here, or how to get into your house, or where to hide to get you?”

“I know nothing of this.”

Holmes’ face was very white and grave. “The story is not over yet, I fear,” said he. “You may find worse dangers than the English law, or even than your enemies from America. I see trouble before you, Mr. Douglas. You’ll take my advice and still be on your guard.”

And now, my long-suffering readers, I will ask you to come away with me for a time, far from the Sussex Manor House of Birlstone, and far also from the year of grace in which we [157]