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"The police have watched this Lascar," said Inspector Bradstreet,

"and I can quite understand that he might find it difficult to

post a letter unobserved. Probably he handed it to some sailor

customer of his, who forgot all about it for some days."

"That was it," said Holmes, nodding approvingly; "I have no doubt

of it. But have you never been prosecuted for begging?"

"Many times; but what was a fine to me?"

"It must stop here, however," said Bradstreet. "If the police are

to hush this thing up, there must be no more of Hugh Boone."

"I have sworn it by the most solemn oaths which a man can take."

"In that case I think that it is probable that no further steps

may be taken. But if you are found again, then all must come out.

I am sure, Mr. Holmes, that we are very much indebted to you for

having cleared the matter up. I wish I knew how you reach your

results."