Because, during the past few nights," replied Julia, "l ha very low and c But don't know heard a strange whistle. It where co some gypsies are near the Remember, said, night house. Perhaps it was one of them whistling at it doesri, You're probably right," Julia d, "Anyway, door matter, Goodnight." She smiled at me and closed my asked Did you and Julia always lock your doors at night Holmes Yes replied Miss Stoner. "We were afraid of the cheetah and the baboon. They're dangerous animals. We didn't feel safe unless our doors and windows were locked." Of course. said Holmes. "Please go on.' That night, there was a terrible storm, continued Miss Stoner. "The wind was howling and the rain was beating on the window, I couldn't sleep. Suddenly I heard a dreadful scream. I knew it was Julia corridor. opened my I jumped out of bed and ran into the As I door, I thought I heard a noise. It was a low, clear whistle. Then I heard another sound. The second sound was like metal clanging against metal. I saw that my sister's door was open. I stared at it in horror Suddenly Julia appeared. She was standing in the doorway. Her face was white with terror. Her eyes were staring wildly. She was swaying from side to side, like a drunk person. Then she fell on the floor. Her body moved like someone in terrible pain. "Suddenly she screamed these words: "Oh, my God! Helen! lt was the band! The speckled band!" Then she fainted'i. At that moment, my stepfather came out of his room. He ran down the corridor to help Julia. But there was nothing he could do. "My stepfather went to the village to bring another doctor But before he returned, poor Julia was dead.