I am going to do a little
climbing. And dip my handkerchief into the creasote. That will
do. Now come up into the garret with me for a moment."
We clambered up through the hole. Holmes turned his light once
more upon the footsteps in the dust.
"I wish you particularly to notice these footmarks," he said.
"Do you observe anything noteworthy about them?"
"They belong," I said, "to a child or a small woman."
"Apart from their size, though. Is there nothing else?"
"They appear to be much as other footmarks."
"Not at all. Look here! This is the print of a right foot in
the dust. Now I make one with my naked foot beside it. What is
the chief difference?"
"Your toes are all cramped together. The other print has each
toe distinctly divided."
"Quite so. That is the point. Bear that in mind. Now, would
you kindly step over to that flap-window and smell the edge of
the wood-work? I shall stay here, as I have this handkerchief in
my hand."
I did as he directed, and was instantly conscious of a strong
tarry smell.
"That is where he put his foot in getting out. If YOU can trace
him, I should think that Toby will have no difficulty. Now run
down-stairs, loose the dog, and look out for Blondin.
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