[Sherlock Holmes 01] • The Hound of the Baskervilles · Another Adventure of Sherlock Holmes

When Dr. Mortimer visits Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson in their rooms in Baker Street, he brings a centuries-old account of the death of the debauched and ruthless Sir Hugo Baskerville, allegedly killed by a diabolical hound. Dr. Mortimer’s friend and neighbor, Sir Charles Baskerville, recently died under circumstances that suggest that this ancient curse on the family persists. Mortimer is concerned for the safety of the Canadian heir, Sir Henry Baskerville, who is to arrive in London the next day en route to the Baskerville estate in Devon. Mortimer also describes the few neighbors on the moor, a group consisting of Mr. Stapleton, Miss Stapleton, Mr. Frankland, and Mr. Frankland’s daughter.

Arriving with Mortimer the next day, Sir Henry shows Holmes a note warning him to stay away from Baskerville Hall, and Holmes discovers evidence that his visitors were followed. Although Holmes is intrigued by the problem, he says that he has other obligations to honor first, so it is agreed that Watson will go to Baskerville Hall as companion, observer, and protector. From the Hall, Watson writes Holmes regularly and in detail about everything he learns and observes.