Return to Reichenbach by Geri Schear

Author:Geri Schear
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Sherlock Holmes, mystery, crime, british crime, sherlock holmes fiction, sherlock holmes novels
ISBN: 9781787050075
Publisher: Andrews UK Limited 2016
Published: 2016-11-01T00:00:00+00:00

17

Monday, 6 th February

It has taken a little longer than I had expected, but our plans are now in place.

B insists she is up to the task. She was cross only at my use of the word, ‘let’.

“There is no ‘letting’ me do this, Sherlock,” she said with asperity. “Our contract makes it clear that I may act in whatever manner I choose.”

“We made that contract when we were little more than strangers,” I said. “However, I cannot refute your argument. Perhaps I used the wrong word. I am constrained to point out, however, that I would not phrase it any differently, nor have any fewer qualms if it were Watson who took this risk rather than you.”

“Well... in that case I accept your apology.”

“I did not apologise.”

“You meant to.”

We laughed like children and it was some time before we got our foolishness under control. For my part, I believe it had as much to do with anxiety as amusement.

Tuesday, 7 th February

Mrs Vertue likes to shock. Every aspect of her being has been carefully manufactured, from the top of her artificially blonde head to the stainless fingers with which she smokes thin cheroots.

Her desire for attention would be irritating were she not so engaging. She has, besides, a vulnerability that is revealed only in glimpses. It is in the simple Claddagh ring she wears on her right middle finger, in the softness of her features when she speaks of her home in County Clare, and in the genuine affection she has for my wife.

She greeted us in her drawing room wearing a dark green satin gown and an extravagant emerald necklace. A rather elaborate ensemble for a mid-afternoon visit, but B tells me Mrs Vertue dresses like this all the time.

B made the introductions. Her friend shook my hand in a forthright way and coolly appraised us. Watson was obviously beguiled and gazed at her in a rather idiotic manner.

“Thank you, for your assistance, Mrs Vertue,” I began, “We are extremely grateful.”

“Oh, tut,” she said, with a dismissive wave of her hand, “What’s life without a little excitement, eh? Amn’t I delighted to help the great Sherlock Holmes?”

She linked her arm through Watson’s and led him to the sofa. She sat beside him, rather more closely than was strictly necessary, and said, “Tell me, handsome, how is it that in all these stories of yours you’ve never mentioned what a fine-looking man you are?”

I guffawed and the woman laughed, too.

“Em, please stop teasing John,” B said.

“Who’s teasing?” the woman replied. “I know a woman’s man when I see one.”

B flopped down on the armchair and said, “You wouldn’t want me to tell him your real name would you? Em.” The last syllable fell with an emphasis. B smiled dangerously at her friend.

Mrs Vertue chortled and released Watson from her grasp. She moved down the sofa by several inches and sat with an expression that was supposed to be demure. I contained my amusement with considerable difficulty.

“I am sure the good doctor knows I am just having a little fun,” she said.

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