'
There entered to them a tall, self-possessed, calm man, with
clean-shaven face, eagle eye, and inquisitive nose.
Although the visit was most embarrassing at that particular juncture,
the natural courtesy of the novelist restrained him from giving
utterance to his resentment of the intrusion, and he proceeded to
introduce the bidden to the unbidden guest as if each were equally
welcome.
'Mr. Sherlock Holmes, permit me to present to you Sir George--'
'It is quite superfluous,' said the newcomer, in an even voice of
exasperating tenor, 'for I perceive at once that one who wears a green
waistcoat must be a Liberal of strong Home Rule opinions, or the
editor of several publications wearing covers of emerald hue. The
shamrock necktie, in addition to the waistcoat, indicates that the
gentleman before me is both, and so I take it for granted that this is
Sir George Newnes. How is your circulation, Sir George?'
'Rapidly rising,' replied the editor.
'I am glad of that,' asserted the intruder, suavely, 'and can assure
you that the temperature outside is as rapidly falling.'
The great detective spread his hands before the glowing electric fire,
and rubbed them vigorously together.
'I perceive through that evening paper the sum of six thousand pounds
in gold.
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