On Tuesday, March 6th the Stormy Petrels of BC will meet to discuss “The Adventure of the Bruce-Partington Plans” a case which appeared in both The Strand Magazine and Collier’s in 1908. Sherlock Holmes tells us that it is a “…really very remarkable case.”
The adventure begins. Holmes is restless and growing more impatient at the lack of activity (to the point of biting his nails). “The London criminal is certainly a dull fellow.”
Dr. Watson paints the atmosphere outside 221b as equally dull. There is a dense, yellow fog that did not dissipate for days and was so thick that to see the house opposite was nearly impossible, and “…the greasy, heavy brown swirl still drifting past us and condensing in oily drops upon the window-panes.”
Saved by big brother Mycroft Holmes! Sherlock Holmes explained to Dr. Watson that for Mycroft to travel to Baker Street was like a planet leaving its orbit. According to Sherlock Holmes, Mycroft had only visited 221b once before.
Mycroft Holmes was described by his brother as “…the most indispensable man in the country” and “…occasionally he is the British Government.”
What crime could be so fantastic as to dislodge Mycroft from his Pall Mall surroundings? International intrigue? Espionage? Theft of secret blueprints? A government secret? A dead body found beside the tracks?
Foreshadowing? Holmes exclaims to Dr. Watson, “It is fortunate for this community that I am not a criminal.”
SH: Have you the tools?
W: They are in my overcoat.
Just how big was Watson’s overcoat? Who was that mysterious maid who brought in the telegram from Mycroft?
Please join the Stormy Petrels for a rousing discussion, tea/coffee and snacks.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my VP, Orilea, in advance for taking over the chair for this meeting, as I will be on an adventure. I will, however, be back for the April meeting.
If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact me at: franziskah@shaw.ca
