The Lambs Lane Affair (A Sherlock Holmes Uncovered Tale Book 5)
Page 11
“Why, Mycroft, what a pleasant surprise,” said Holmes. “You have saved me a trip to the Diogenes Club. Please, be seated.”
Mycroft lowered his bulk into an armchair. I was shocked to see the portly man. He rarely left his usual haunts. I wondered what must have brought him.
“How are things with you, Sherlock?” he asked politely.
“I am well. You have just missed the resolution of the Benton murder case.”
“It was the neighbor, Miss Woodbury, of course,” said Mycroft.
“Naturally,” said Holmes.
“I thought as much. It seemed obvious from the newspaper accounts I read.”
“Is that what has brought you here? Did you fear that I would make a misstep? At any rate, I am pleased that you are here. What news is there on the Masterson case? Was the booty on The Gadfly as we surmised?”
Mycroft Holmes shifted uncomfortably in his chair.
“That is why I am here, Sherlock,” he said. “For you see, I am afraid I let the matter slip from my mind. By the time I recalled it and notified the ministry, The Gadfly had already disembarked from Aberdeen.”
“This is grave news, Mycroft,” cried Holmes. “Once the ship reaches America, all will be lost.”
“The port master says the ship was bound for New York.”
“But, of course, you realize that they will actually sail for New Orleans,” stated Holmes.
“Of course,” agreed Mycroft, nodding his head sagely. “I will report to the ministry this new development, and take care of the details.”
“That will not be necessary,” said Holmes. “I will send the appropriate telegrams this very night. The noose will tighten around Masterson’s neck yet.”
“I do feel as though I have let you down, Sherlock,” said Mycroft. “I cannot imagine how I let the matter slip from my mind.”
“Do not give it another thought,” said Holmes. “Is there anything else on your mind? You appear troubled?”
“I have heard of a murder on Montague Street. It seemed quite odd.”
“What was it that was so odd?”
“Well, Sherlock, the man was murdered in your old rooms.”
“Tell me all that you know,” said Holmes, leaning forward eagerly.
The End
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