I was so firmly bound that I could not move, and a handkerchief round my mouth prevented me from uttering any sound.It was at this instant that my unfortunate husband entered the room.
He had evidently heard some suspicious sounds, and he came prepared for such a scene as he found.He was dressed in his shirt and trousers, with his favourite blackthorn cudgel in his hand.He rushed at one of the burglars, but another -- it was the elderly man -- stooped, picked the poker out of the grate, and struck him a horrible blow as he passed.He fell without a groan, and never moved again.I fainted once more, but again it could only have been a very few minutes during which I was insensible.When I opened my eyes I found that they had collected the silver from the sideboard, and they had drawn a bottle of wine which stood there.Each of them had a glass in his hand.I have already told you, have I not, that one was elderly, with a beard, and the others young, hairless lads.
They might have been a father with his two sons.They talked together in whispers.Then they came over and made sure that I was still securely bound.Finally they withdrew, closing the window after them.It was quite a quarter of an hour before I got my mouth free.When I did so my screams brought the maid to my assistance.The other servants were soon alarmed, and we sent for the local police, who instantly communicated with London.That is really all that I can tell you, gentlemen, and I trust that it will not be necessary for me to go over so painful a story again.""Any questions, Mr.Holmes?" asked Hopkins.
"I will not impose any further tax upon Lady Brackenstall's patience and time," said Holmes."Before I go into the dining-room I should like to hear your experience."He looked at the maid.
"I saw the men before ever they came into the house," said she.