Publisher's Synopsis
"Tell me, where is Calliston? I want to see him." "Not much chance," replied Myles, shaking his head, "he's...gone off tonight down to Shoreham...yachting, you know. Wants to go to the Azores Well, see you tomorrow, I'm in a deuce of a hurry, goodnight." He spoke rapidly, with nervous agitation quite at variance with his usual demeanor, as Spencer knew, and went off quickly and was swallowed up by the fog, the latter resumed his walk with a quiet laugh. "A woman, I bet," he said to himself as he made his way cautiously along. "Fancy Venus on such a discouraging night as this...the rosy mists enveloping the goddess are charming, but a London fog...ah, bah!" He stood on the pavement, wondering how he could strike Jermyn Street, and was about to attempt to cross on the chance of his luck guiding him, when suddenly the tall form of a policeman loomed out of the fog and flashed the bright light of a lantern on him. "Ah, just in time, policeman," said Spencer in a relieved tone. "I've got slightly astray in this fog, so you must guide me to the Guelph Hotel." "Just across the street, sir," replied the policeman, touching his helmet, and he stepped off the pavement, followed by Spencer. They soon got into Jermyn Street, and went along the left-hand side towards the hotel. Though the fog was still thick, Spencer in the vanity of his heart thought he could now find the way for himself. He gave the policeman half-a-crown, and going along a few yards went up what he supposed were the steps of the hotel. The policeman stood in the same place, ready to render his services as a guide, should he be required, when suddenly he was startled by a cry from Spencer. The young man had gone up the wrong steps, and was standing on the top when the policeman hurried up, while at his feet was a bundle of what looked like clothes. "I say, policeman," said Spencer in an agitated tone, "here is a woman...I believe she's dead." "Dead drunk, more like, sir," replied the policeman, skeptically, ascending the steps. "No," said Spencer, "I have shaken her and she will not waken. Her face is quite cold...just look!" We are pleased to present this easier-to-read, specially formatted Classic Mystery Story for your reading pleasure. Riley's Bookshelf has partnered with Kick at Darkness. It is a non-profit organization working to raise awareness and helping survivors heal from sexual assault, domestic violence, sex trafficking, child abuse, or hate crimes. With the purchase of each book you buy one handmade crocheted scarf will be donated to Kick at Darkness. For more information please visit www.KickatDarkness.com Be sure to look for more great stories at www.RileysBookshelf.com