48564 'One last question, Holmes,' I said, as I rose.
48565 'Surely there is no need of secrecy between you and me.
48566 What is the meaning of it all?
48567 What is he after?'
48568 Holmes's voice sank as he answered - 'It is murder, Watson - refined, cold-blooded, deliberate murder.
48569 Do not ask me for particulars.
48570 My nets are closing upon him, even as his are upon Sir Henry, and with your help he is already almost at my mercy.
48571 There is but one danger which can threaten us.
48572 It is that he should strike before we are ready to do so.
48573 Another day - two at the most - and I have my case complete, but until then guard your charge as closely as ever a fond mother watched her ailing child.
48574 Your mission to-day has justified itself, and yet I could almost wish that you had not left his side - Hark!'
48575 A terrible scream - a prolonged yell of horror and anguish burst out of the silence of the moor.
48576 That frightful cry turned the blood to ice in my veins.