short manuscript in my own hand, which had been placed in one of
the pigeonholes, was missing."

"A manuscript," murmured Harley. "Upon a technical subject?"

"Scarcely a technical subject, Mr. Harley. It was a brief account
which I had vaguely contemplated publishing in one of the
reviews, a brief account of a very extraordinary patient whom I
once attended."

"And had you written it recently?"

"No; some years ago. But I had recently added to it. I may say
that it was my purpose still further to add to it, and with this
object I had actually unlocked the bureau."

"New facts respecting this patient had come into your
possession?"

"They had."

"Before the date of the attack upon you?"

"Before that date, yes."

"And before surveillance of your movements began?"

"I believe so."

"May I suggest that your patient and the 'well-known man' to whom