The cause
of his death was a frightful blow upon the head, which had
crushed in part of his skull. That he could have gone on after
receiving such an injury said much for the vitality and courage
of the man. He wore shoes, but no socks, and his open coat
disclosed a night-shirt beneath it. It was undoubtedly the
German master.
Holmes turned the body over reverently, and examined it with
great attention. He then sat in deep thought for a time, and I
could see by his ruffled brow that this grim discovery had not,
in his opinion, advanced us much in our inquiry.
"It is a little difficult to know what to do, Watson," said he,
at last. "My own inclinations are to push this inquiry on,
for we have already lost so much time that we cannot afford to
waste another hour. On the other hand, we are bound to inform
the police of the discovery, and to see that this poor fellow's
body is looked after."
"I could take a note back."
"But I need your company and assistance. Wait a bit!
There is a fellow cutting peat up yonder. Bring him over here,
and he will guide the police."
I brought the peasant across, and Holmes dispatched the
frightened man with a note to Dr.
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