50939    His dress was rich with a richness which would, in England, be looked upon as akin to bad taste.

50940    Heavy bands of astrakhan were slashed across the sleeves and fronts of his double-breasted coat, while the deep blue cloak which was thrown over his shoulders was lined with flame-coloured silk, and secured at the neck with a brooch which consisted of a single flaming beryl.

50941    Boots which extended half-way up his calves, and which were trimmed at the tops with rich brown fur, completed the impression of barbaric opulence which was suggested by his whole appearance.

50942    He carried a broad-brimmed hat in his hand, while he wore across the upper part of his face, extending down past the cheek-bones, a black vizard mask, which he had apparently adjusted that very moment, for his hand was still raised to as he entered.

50943    From the lower part of the face he appeared to be a man of strong character, with a thick, hanging lip, and a long straight chin, suggestive of resolution pushed to the length of obstinacy.

50944    'You had my note?' he asked, with a deep, harsh voice and a strongly marked German accent.

50945    'I told you that I would call.'

50946    He looked from one to the other of us, as if uncertain which to address.

50947    'Pray take a seat,' said Holmes.

50948    'This is my friend and colleague, Dr. Watson, who is occasionally good enough to help me in my cases.

50949    Whom have I the honour to address?'

50950    'You may address me as the Count von Kramm, a Bohemian nobleman.

50951    I understand that this gentleman, your friend, is a man of honour and discretion, whom I may trust with a matter of the most extreme importance.

50952    If not, I should much prefer to communicate with you alone.'

50953    I rose to go, but Holmes caught me by the wrist and pushed me back into my chair.