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Clues were followed, and led to nothing.

Every criminal resort which Shlessinger might frequent was drawn in vain.

His old associates were watched, but they kept clear of him.

And then suddenly, after a week of helpless suspense there came a flash of light.

A silver-and-brilliant pendant of old Spanish design had been pawned at Bovington's, in Westminster Road.

The pawner was a large, clean-shaven man of clerical appearance.

His name and address were demonstrably false.

The ear had escaped notice, but the description was surely that of Shlessinger.

Three times had our bearded friend from the Langham called for news-the third time within an hour of this fresh development.

His clothes were getting looser on his great body.

He seemed to be wilting away in his anxiety.

"If you will only give me something to do!" was his constant wail.

At last Holmes could oblige him.

"He has begun to pawn the jewels. We should get him now."

"But does this mean that any harm has befallen the Lady Frances?"

Holmes shook his head very gravely.

"Supposing that they have held her prisoner up to now, it is clear that they cannot let her loose without their own destruction. We must prepare for the worst."

"What can I do?"

"These people do not know you by sight?"

"No."

"It is possible that he will go to some other pawnbroker in the future.

in that case, we must begin again.

On the other hand, he has had a fair price and no questions asked, so if he is in need of ready-money he will probably come back to Bovington's.

I will give you a note to them, and they will let you wait in the shop.

If the fellow comes you will follow him home.

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