Dr. Watson

And it therefore indicated that he had been in the cellar and consequently must have known about the whole plot.

And all he was trying to do was to build up in our minds the belief that his cousin was trying to kill him.

Exactly, my dear fellow.

Had we believed him, of course, he could have shot you just now, Mr. Falkenby, in apparent self-defense.

Good Lord, what a fantastic plot.

I still can't quite believe it.

Mr. Falkenby, why are you dressed as a Guy Fawkes dummy?

Well, it was James's idea.

He said that he was going to dress up too and that we were to go around the bonfire tonight and frighten people by appearing as live dummies.

But the last message he sent told me to come up here, that we'd play a practical joke on a couple of friends of his.

And did he provide you with the costume that you're wearing?

Yes, as a matter of fact, he did.

Have you searched the pockets for any weapons?

No, but I will.

All right, and while you're doing that, I'll examine this dark lantern.

How's your patient, Watson?

Well, I've given him some digitalis.

And now I'll get him some brandy.

I can't find anything in the pocket.

Here's the answer, my friends.