The lady moved nearer the fire. Then she said, 'It isn't the cold which makes me shiver.'
'What is it, then?'
'It's fear, Mr Holmes. It's terror.'
As she spoke, the lady raised her veil. We saw at once that she was very frightened. Her eyes were like the eyes of a terrified animal. She was a young woman, about thirty years old, but her
hair was already turning grey with worry.
Holmes looked at the lady carefully. Then he leant forward and touched her arm.
'Don't be afraid,' he said kindly. 'I'm sure we can help you.
But first, please tell us your story.'
'Mr Holmes,' said our visitor, 'I know I'm in terrible danger.
Please tell me what to do!'