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I struck him down with no more compunction than if he had been

some foul and venomous beast. His cry brought back his son; but I

had gained the cover of the wood, though I was forced to go back

to fetch the cloak which I had dropped in my flight. That is the

true story, gentlemen, of all that occurred."

"Well, it is not for me to judge you," said Holmes as the old man

signed the statement which had been drawn out. "I pray that we

may never be exposed to such a temptation."

"I pray not, sir. And what do you intend to do?"

"In view of your health, nothing. You are yourself aware that you

will soon have to answer for your deed at a higher court than the

Assizes. I will keep your confession, and if McCarthy is

condemned I shall be forced to use it. If not, it shall never be

seen by mortal eye; and your secret, whether you be alive or

dead, shall be safe with us."