As you say, there appear to be grains of sawdust in it. Dear me,
this is very interesting. And the cut -- a positive tear, I see.
It began with a thin scratch and ended in a jagged hole. I am
much indebted to you for directing my attention to this case,
Mr. Soames. Where does that door lead to?"
"To my bedroom."
"Have you been in it since your adventure?"
"No; I came straight away for you."
"I should like to have a glance round. What a charming,
old-fashioned room! Perhaps you will kindly wait a minute until
I have examined the floor. No, I see nothing. What about this
curtain? You hang your clothes behind it. If anyone were forced
to conceal himself in this room he must do it there, since the
bed is too low and the wardrobe too shallow. No one there,
I suppose?"
As Holmes drew the curtain I was aware, from some little
rigidity and alertness of his attitude, that he was prepared for
an emergency. As a matter of fact the drawn curtain disclosed
nothing but three or four suits of clothes hanging from a line
of pegs. Holmes turned away and stooped suddenly to the floor.
"Halloa! What's this?" said he.
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