noble mind is the most deplorable. I sat in silent dejection
until the stipulated time had passed. He seemed to have been
watching the clock as well as I, for it was hardly six before he
began to talk with the same feverish animation as before.

"Now, Watson," said he. "Have you any change in your pocket?"

"Yes."

"Any silver?"

"A good deal."

"How many half-crowns?"

"I have five."

"Ah, too few! Too few! How very unfortunate, Watson! However,
such as they are you can put them in your watchpocket. And all
the rest of your money in your left trouser pocket. Thank you.
It will balance you so much better like that."

This was raving insanity. He shuddered, and again made a sound
between a cough and a sob.

"You will now light the gas, Watson, but you will be very careful
that not for one instant shall it be more than half on. I
implore you to be careful, Watson. Thank you, that is excellent.
No, you need not draw the blind. Now you will have the kindness
to place some letters and papers upon this table within my reach.