Pagina 350 van 657

"Certainly, sir," said Baker, who had risen and tucked his newly

gained property under his arm. "There are a few of us who

frequent the Alpha Inn, near the Museum-we are to be found in the

Museum itself during the day, you understand. This year our good

host, Windigate by name, instituted a goose club, by which, on

consideration of some few pence every week, we were each to

receive a bird at Christmas. My pence were duly paid, and the

rest is familiar to you. I am much indebted to you, sir, for a

Scotch bonnet is fitted neither to my years nor my gravity." With

a comical pomposity of manner he bowed solemnly to both of us and

strode off upon his way.

"So much for Mr. Henry Baker," said Holmes when he had closed the

door behind him. "It is quite certain that he knows nothing

whatever about the matter. Are you hungry, Watson?"

"Not particularly."

"Then I suggest that we turn our dinner into a supper and follow

up this clue while it is still hot."

"By all means."