Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1881 edition. Excerpt: ... had been committed, and so obtain the materials for his realistic drama. The next morning, shortly before noon, Mr. Prettyjohn entered Mr. Barnes's apartments in Kentish Town. The author's face was grave, his manner solemn. He returned his preserver's greeting stiffly, took a chair, cleared his throat, and commenced, "Mr. Barnes," he said, "I believe you once lived in Lamingford-road." "Certainly I did," said Mr. Barnes. "You saw that on my card, I presume." Mr. Prettyjohn nodded, then drew his breath, and took fresh aim at the target of Mr. Barnes's cornice. "Where is Mrs. Barnes?" Mr. Prettyjohn put the question in a casual sort of way, but the effect on Barnes was electrical. The hot blood rushed to his face, and his lips trembled. "You know my secret," he murmured in a hollow voice. "I do, unhappy man--I do," said Mr. Prettyjohn. "/ have the parrot!" "Goodness gracious, you don't say so!" exclaimed Mr. Barnes, leaping from his chair. "Yes, and I have come to warn you. Leave the country at once, before I place the matter in the hands of the police. You saved my life, and I am bound to show some gratitude for that act. Tell me how you murdered your wife--then fly, ere it is too late." "How I what?" exclaimed Mr. Barnes, looking at his guest in astonishment. "Murdered your wife, sir," answered Mr. Prettyjohn. "What the deuce do you mean? I never murdered her. She's alive now.-I thought from your manner you knew our story." "Not murdered her! But the parrot" A faint smile passed over George Barnes's face. "Listen to my story," he said, "and then you'll understand the situation. I am an...