48993    I wish to be perfectly frank with you, Mrs Lyons.

48994    We regard this case as one of murder, and the evidence may implicate not only your friend Mr Stapleton, but his wife as well.'

48995    The lady sprang from her chair.

48996    'His wife!' she cried.

48997    'The fact is no longer a secret.

48998    The person who has passed for his sister is really his wife.'

48999    Mrs Lyons had resumed her seat.

49000    Her hands were grasping the arms of her chair, and I saw that the pink nails had turned white with the pressure of her grip.

49001    'His wife!' she said, again.

49002    'His wife!

49003    He was not a married man.'

49004    Sherlock Holmes shrugged his shoulders.

49005    'Prove it to me!

49006    Prove it to me!

49007    And if you can do so-!'