? ? ? ? "And when she is undeceived?"
? ? ? ? "Why, then we may find the lady of service. It must be our first duty to see her -- both of us -- to-morrow. Don't you think, Watson, that you are away from your charge rather long? Your place should be at Baskerville Hall."
? ? ? ? The last red streaks had faded away in the west and night had settled upon the moor. A few faint stars were gleaming in a violet sky.
? ? ? ? "One last question, Holmes," I said as I rose. "Surely there is no need of secrecy between you and me. What is the meaning of it all? What is he after?"
? ? ? ? Holmes's voice sank as he answered:
? ? ? ? "It is murder, Watson -- refined, cold-blooded, deliberate murder. Do not ask me for particulars. My nets are closing upon him, even as his are upon Sir Henry, and with your help he is already almost at my mercy. There is but one danger which can threaten us. It is that he should strike before we are ready to do so. Another day -- two at the most -- and I have my case complete, but until then guard your charge as closely as ever a fond mother watched her ailing child. Your mission to-day has justified itself, and yet I could almost wish that you had not left his side. Hark!"
? ? ? ? A terrible scream -- a prolonged yell of horror and anguish burst out of the silence of the moor.
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