"Besides the
members of the Cabinet there are two, or possibly three,
departmental officials who know of the letter. No one else
in England, Mr. Holmes, I assure you."
"But abroad?"
"I believe that no one abroad has seen it save the man who wrote it.
I am well convinced that his Ministers -- that the usual official
channels have not been employed."
Holmes considered for some little time.
"Now, sir, I must ask you more particularly what this document is,
and why its disappearance should have such momentous consequences?"
The two statesmen exchanged a quick glance and the Premier's
shaggy eyebrows gathered in a frown.
"Mr. Holmes, the envelope is a long, thin one of pale blue colour.
There is a seal of red wax stamped with a crouching lion.
It is addressed in large, bold handwriting to ---"
"I fear, sir," said Holmes, "that, interesting and indeed
essential as these details are, my inquiries must go more to the
root of things. What WAS the letter?"
"That is a State secret of the utmost importance, and I fear
that I cannot tell you, nor do I see that it is necessary.
If by the aid of the powers which you are said to possess you
can find such an envelope as I describe with its enclosure,
you will have deserved well of your country, and earned any
reward which it lies in our power to bestow.
Pages:
481
482
483
484
485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503
504
505