The photograph was of Irene Adler herself in evening dress, the letter was superscribed to "Sherlock Holmes, Esq.

To be left till called for." My friend tore it open and we all three read it together.

It was dated at midnight of the preceding night and ran in this way: "MY DEAR MR.

SHERLOCK HOLMES,--You really did it very well.

You took me in completely.