Mr. Justice Raffles

The story unfolds with the mysterious return of Raffles, who has been absent for two weeks, prompting intrigue and concern from his friend. When he arrives at Charing Cross after a telegram from Carlsbad, he is unrecognizable, appearing frail and changed. The narrative hints at an underlying mystery regarding Raffles' time away, suggesting that his physical decline may be tied to the dubious nature of his travels. The contrast between his former vitality and his current state sets the stage for an exploration of his character and circumstances.