55720    there is now another vacancy open which entitles a member of the League to a salary of four pounds a week for purely nominal services.

55721    All red-headed men who are sound in body and mind, and above the age of twenty-one years, are eligible.

55722    Apply in person on Monday, at eleven o'clock, to Duncan Ross, at the offices of the League, 7 Pope's Court, Fleet Street.'

55723    'What on earth does this mean?' I ejaculated, after I had twice read over the extraordinary announcement.

55724    Holmes chuckled, and wriggled in his chair, as was his habit when in high spirits.

55725    'It is a little off the beaten track, isn't it?' said he.

55726    'And now, Mr. Wilson, off you go at scratch, and tell us all about yourself, your household, and the effect which this advertisement had upon your fortunes.

55727    You will first make a note, Doctor, of the paper and the date.'

55728    'It is The Morning Chronicle, of April 27, 1890.

55729    Just two months ago.'

55730    'Very good.

55731    Now, Mr. Wilson?'

55732    'Well, it is just as I have been telling you, Mr. Sherlock Holmes,' said Jabez Wilson, mopping his forehead, 'I have a small pawnbroker's business at Coburg Square, near the City.

55733    It's not a very large affair, and of late years it has not done more than just give me a living.

55734    I used to be able to keep two assistants, but now I only keep one; and I would have a job to pay him, but that he is willing to come for half wages, so as to learn the business.'