Good morning." said Holmes. "My name is Sherlock Holmes. This is my friend, Dr. Watson. I have no secrets from him. You can talk freely. Ah. I see Mrs. Hudson has lit a fire. Sit here close to it, I'll get a cup of coffee for you. I see you are shivering." "I'm not cold," said the woman. "What's the matter. then? "I'm frightened. I'm scared to death." There was fear in her eyes. She looked like a hunted animal. Her face looked as though she were about thirty years old. But her hair was grey. She was weary and tired. Sherlock Holmes looked at her keenly. "Don't be afraid." he said. "Everything is going to be all right. we're going to help you. I'm sure. I see you came in by train." "Oh, do you know me"No. but your return ticket is in your glove. You must have started early You had a long ride over muddy roads before you took the train." The woman looked at Holmes in surprise. "There is no mystery about it. he smiled. The left arm of your coat has seven mud spots. The spots are fresh heels throw mud that way."
"You are right.", she said. "I left home before six. I came on the first morning train. I just can't stand this any longer. I'll go mad unless Viget help have no one well. just one. But he can't help me. I've heard of you Mr. Sherlock Holmes. You once helped a friend of mine,Mrs. Farintosh. I got your address from her. Oh, sir, do you think you could help me, too? Right now I can't pay you. But in a month I'll be married. Then I'll have my own money truned over to me." Holmes pulled out a little black book and turned the pages. Farintosh." he said. "Ah, yes, remember. That was before I knew you, Watson. I'll do what I can for you. Don't worry about the money. I work because I like my work. If I have expenses, you may pay them when you can Now tell us your story so I can help you.