"Doyle, Arthur Conan - The Adventure Of The Dying Detective" - читать интересную книгу автора (Doyle Arthur Conan)

possibilities, in the East, Watson." He paused after each
sentence to collect his failing strength. "I have learned so
much during some recent researches which have a medico-criminal
aspect. It was in the course of them that I contracted this
complaint. You can do nothing."

"Possibly not. But I happen to know that Dr. Ainstree, the
greatest living authority upon tropical disease, is now in
London. All remonstrance is useless, Holmes, I am going this
instant to fetch him." I turned resolutely to the door.

Never have I had such a shock! In an instant, with a tiger-
spring, the dying man had intercepted me. I heard the sharp snap
of a twisted key. The next moment he had staggered back to his
bed, exhausted and panting after his one tremendous outflame of
energy.

"You won't take the key from be by force, Watson, I've got you,
my friend. Here you are, and here you will stay until I will
otherwise. But I'll humour you." (All this in little gasps,
with terrible struggles for breath between.) "You've only my own
good at heart. Of course I know that very well. You shall have
your way, but give me time to get my strength. Not now, Watson,
not now. It's four o'clock. At six you can go."

"This is insanity, Holmes."

"Only two hours, Watson. I promise you will go at six. Are you
content to wait?"

"I seem to have no choice."

"None in the world, Watson. Thank you, I need no help in
arranging the clothes. You will please keep your distance. Now,
Watson, there is one other condition that I would make. You will
seek help, not from the man you mention, but from the one that I
choose."

"By all means."

"The first three sensible words that you have uttered since you
entered this room, Watson. You will find some books over there.
I am somewhat exhausted; I wonder how a battery feels when it
pours electricity into a non-conductor? At six, Watson, we
resume our conversation."

But it was destined to be resumed long before that hour, and in
circumstances which gave me a shock hardly second to that caused
by his spring to the door. I had stood for some minutes looking
at the silent figure in the bed. His face was almost covered by