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“You tried to trick the man,” Holmes stated.
“You know me.”
“Yes, I do.”
Holmes turned about. “John, listen to me. I know you’re brave already; you don’t need to prove anything to me.”
“I know that. But the man endangered not just my life, but that of my loves as well. And he hurt others...twice.”
“You didn’t tell me about the second time.
Watson eyed the workers entering the building on the side. “Let’s talk on the way in.”
“Very well, but you must say nothing to anyone.”
“Count on it.”
They marched for the back entrance, where the night workers were entering and the day shift were leaving.
Behind them the Stranger stood casually beside one of the new Tes lamp posts. Broader than the gas types at the base, they resembled tree trunks, a design by purpose. Good Queen Mary of Scots wanted London to become the prize of the continent. Of the world. And common street lights were just not allowed anymore.
He shifted slightly from his position behind the lamp post to watch as Holmes and Watson entered the building, then he left his hiding place to follow.
As he did, he popped peanuts into his mouth and discarded behind him a trail of peanut shells.
