There was a fine rain falling; and a nasty damp in the air sent me back to the fireside.

I don't suppose I had sat down for more than a minute when the swinging-door was violently pushed open.
A frantic woman ran in with a scream, and said: "Is this the station-house ?" Our Inspector (otherwise an excellent officer) had, by some perversity of nature, a hot temper in his chilly constitution.

"Why, bless the woman, can't you see it is ?" he says.

"What's the matter now ?" "Murder's the matter!" she burst out.

"For God's sake, come back with me.