The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Summary and Explanation
CBSE Class 11 English (Elective) Short Stories Chapter 4- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Summary, Explanation along with Difficult Word Meanings from Woven Words Book
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CBSE Class 11 English (Elective) Short Stories Chapter 4 The Adventure of the Three Garridebs
Arthur Conan Doyle
The short story “The Adventure of the Three Garridebs” by Arthur Conan Doyle is a detective story featuring the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his friend Dr. Watson. In this story, a strange man named John Garrideb comes to Holmes with an unusual case. He says that a large fortune will be given to a man named Garrideb, but only if two other people with the same last name are found. Holmes begins to suspect that this is not a real legal matter but a trick. As the story continues, he uncovers a clever plan by a criminal to get access to a hidden basement. With careful observation and clever thinking, Holmes solves the mystery and also shows how much he cares about Watson when his friend gets hurt.
- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Summary
- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Summary in Hindi
- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Theme
- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Explanation
Related:
- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Question Answers
- The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Character Sketch
The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Summary
The short story “The Adventure of the Three Garridebs” by Arthur Conan Doyle begins with a curious case presented to Sherlock Holmes by a man named Nathan Garrideb, who lives a quiet life as a collector in London. Nathan is excited about a letter he has received from an American named John Garrideb. According to John’s story, a wealthy man in America named Alexander Hamilton Garrideb has passed away, leaving a fortune of five million dollars to be divided among three men with the unusual surname “Garrideb.” Two Garridebs, Nathan and John, have already been found, and only one more needs to be located for the inheritance to be claimed. However, Holmes finds John Garrideb suspicious. His accent, clothing, and behaviour seem to not match with his story. Mainly, his trousers are tailored in London, not America, which raises doubts about his identity. Holmes becomes more concerned when he notices that John is desperate to get Nathan out of his home for a few hours.
Holmes investigates further and learns that the building Nathan lives in once belonged to a criminal named Roger Presbury, who was involved in a counterfeiting operation-producing fake money. Holmes finds that John Garrideb is actually a dangerous criminal named James Winter, also known as “Killer Evans,” who used the fake inheritance story to lure Nathan away and gain access to the basement of the house. Winter is trying to get old printing plates and equipment hidden there. Holmes and Watson set a trap. While pretending to go along with the plan, they hide and wait for Winter to break into the basement. When they confront him, Winter pulls out a gun and shoots at them, injuring Dr. Watson in the leg. Holmes reacts with rare emotion, showing genuine concern for his friend, which surprises Watson, who is touched by Holmes’ loyalty and affection. The story ends with the arrest of James Winter. Holmes’ intelligence and instincts once again lead to justice, and Watson recovers from his wound. The story not only solves a criminal mystery but also reveals the deep and meaningful friendship between Holmes and Watson.
The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Summary in Hindi
आर्थर कॉनन डॉयल की लघु कहानी “द एडवेंचर ऑफ़ द थ्री गैरीडेब” की शुरुआत नाथन गैरीडेब नामक एक व्यक्ति द्वारा शर्लक होम्स को प्रस्तुत एक जिज्ञासु मामले से होती है, जो लंदन में एक एकांतप्रिय विद्वान के रूप में एक शांत जीवन व्यतीत करता है। नाथन एक अमेरिकी जॉन गैरीडेब से प्राप्त एक पत्र को लेकर उत्साहित है। जॉन की कहानी के अनुसार, अमेरिका में अलेक्जेंडर हैमिल्टन गैरीडेब नामक एक धनी व्यक्ति का निधन हो गया है, जो असामान्य उपनाम “गैरीडेब” वाले तीन पुरुषों के बीच विभाजित होने के लिए पाँच मिलियन डॉलर की संपत्ति छोड़ गया है। दो गैरीडेब, नाथन और जॉन, पहले ही मिल चुके हैं, और विरासत का दावा करने के लिए केवल एक और की तलाश की जानी है। हालाँकि, होम्स को जॉन गैरीडेब संदिग्ध लगता है। उसका उच्चारण, कपड़े और व्यवहार उसकी कहानी के साथ असंगत लगते हैं। सबसे खास बात यह है कि उसकी पतलून लंदन में सिलवाई गई है, न कि अमेरिका में, जिससे उसकी पहचान पर संदेह होता है। होम्स तब और चिंतित हो जाता है जब वह देखता है कि जॉन कुछ घंटों के लिए नाथन को अपने घर से बाहर निकालने के लिए बेताब है।
होम्स ने आगे की जांच की और पाया कि जिस इमारत में नाथन रहता है, वह कभी रोजर प्रेसबरी नामक अपराधी की थी, जो जालसाजी के काम में शामिल था। होम्स ने अनुमान लगाया कि जॉन गैरीडेब वास्तव में जेम्स विंटर नामक एक खतरनाक अपराधी है, जिसे “किलर इवांस” के नाम से भी जाना जाता है, जिसने नाथन को बहकाने और घर के तहखाने में प्रवेश करने के लिए नकली विरासत की कहानी का इस्तेमाल किया। विंटर वहां छिपी पुरानी प्रिंटिंग प्लेट और उपकरण निकालने की कोशिश कर रहा है। होम्स और वॉटसन ने एक जाल बिछाया। योजना के साथ जाने का नाटक करते हुए, वे छिप जाते हैं और विंटर के तहखाने में घुसने का इंतजार करते हैं। जब वे उसका सामना करते हैं, तो विंटर बंदूक निकालता है और उन पर गोली चलाता है, जिससे डॉ. वॉटसन के पैर में चोट लग जाती है। होम्स अपने दोस्त के लिए सच्ची चिंता दिखाते हुए दुर्लभ भावना के साथ प्रतिक्रिया करता है, जो वॉटसन को आश्चर्यचकित करता है, जो होम्स की वफादारी और स्नेह से प्रभावित होता है। कहानी जेम्स विंटर की गिरफ्तारी के साथ समाप्त होती है। होम्स की बुद्धिमत्ता और सहज ज्ञान एक बार फिर न्याय की ओर ले जाता है, और वॉटसन अपने घाव से उबर जाता है। कहानी न केवल एक आपराधिक रहस्य को सुलझाती है बल्कि होम्स और वॉटसन के बीच गहरी और सार्थक दोस्ती को भी उजागर करती है।
Theme of the Lesson The Adventure of the Three Garridebs
The short story “The Adventure of the Three Garridebs” by Arthur Conan Doyle revolves around the following themes:-
Deception and Crime
The story is built around a clever trick. A man pretending to be “John Garrideb” creates a fake story about a huge inheritance to fool another man and get him out of his house. His real goal is to retrieve hidden criminal equipment. This shows how criminals can use lies and fake identities to commit crimes. Holmes sees through this plan and reveals the truth.
Intelligence and Observation
Sherlock Holmes solves the case by noticing small details, like how “Garrideb’s” trousers were stitched by a London tailor, not American as he claimed. Holmes shows that solving mysteries requires careful thinking, paying attention, and making connections others might miss.
Friendship and Loyalty
One of the most touching moments in the story is when Watson is shot and Holmes becomes emotional. Although Holmes usually appears calm and logical, his concern for Watson reveals how deeply he cares about his friend. This shows their strong bond, loyalty, and friendship beyond just working together.
Justice and Truth
Even though the criminal tries hard to trick everyone, Holmes manages to uncover the truth and ensure he is caught. The story shows that no matter how clever a lie is, truth and justice will win in the end when someone brave and intelligent is there to uncover it.
Greed and its consequences
The fake inheritance of five million dollars is what drives the plot. John Garrideb, whose real name is James Winter, is motivated by greed. His desire for money leads him to lie, impersonate, and attempt murder. This theme warns readers that greed can lead people to dangerous and criminal acts.
The Adventure of the Three Garridebs Lesson Explanation
Passage: It may have been a comedy, or it may have been a tragedy. It cost one man his reason, it cost me a blood-letting, and it cost yet another man the penalties of the law. Yet there was certainly an element of comedy. Well, you shall judge for yourselves.
Word Meanings:
blood-letting (n): in the past, a medical treatment in which blood was taken from a person who was ill, here used as a phrase
penalties (n): a punishment, or the usual punishment, for doing something that is against a law
Explanation of the passage: Dr. Watson reflects on the strange case of the Three Garridebs. He says the story could be seen as either a comedy or a tragedy. It affected different people in different ways, one man lost his mind, Watson himself was wounded and bled, and another person ended up facing legal punishment. Despite these serious events, there were also some parts of the case that seemed ironic. Watson leaves it up to the reader to decide how they want to view the story, as a sad or funny one.
Passage: I remember the date very well, for, it was in the same month that Holmes refused a knighthood for services which may perhaps some day be described. I only refer to the matter in passing, for, in my position of partner and confidant I am obliged to be particularly careful to avoid any indiscretion. I repeat, however, that this enables me to fix the date, which was the latter end of June 1902, shortly after the conclusion of the South African War. Holmes had spent several days in bed, as was his habit from time to time, but he emerged that morning with a long foolscap document in his hand and a twinkle of amusement in his austere grey eyes.
Word Meanings:
knighthood (n): in Britain and some other countries, the rank of knight, a rank of honour given to a man by a king or queen because of his special achievements, which gives him the right to be called “Sir”
obliged (adj.): to be forced to do something or feel that you must do something
indiscretion (n): lack of care in saying or doing things that should be kept secret, or an act or statement that shows such lack of care
foolscap (n): paper of a standard size, measuring 17.2 cm x 21.6 cm
twinkle of amusement (v): to sparkle with joy or delight
austere (adj.): very simple, plain
Explanation of the passage: In this paragraph, Dr. Watson recalls the exact date of the events because it happened around the same time when Sherlock Holmes refused an honourable title he earned for some important work, though the details are still secret. Watson mentions this carefully, as he is Holmes’s close partner and must be discreet. This detail helps him remember the time clearly: it was late June 1902, just after the South African War ended. At that time, Holmes had been resting in bed for a few days, as he sometimes did, but on this particular morning, he got up holding a long paper and looked amused, despite his usually serious expression.
Passage: ‘There is a chance for you to make some money, friend Watson,’ said he. ‘Have you ever heard the name of Garrideb?
I admitted that I had not.
‘Well, if you can lay your hand upon a Garrideb, there’s money in it.’
‘Why?’
Word Meanings:
lay your hand upon (idiom): to find, obtain, or control something
Explanation of the passage: Holmes told Watson that there was an opportunity to make some money and asked if he had ever heard the name Garrideb. Watson admitted that he had not. Holmes then explained that if Watson could find someone named Garrideb, there was money involved. Curious, Watson asked Holmes why that was the case.
Passage: ‘Ah, that’s a long story—rather a whimsical one, too. I don’t think in all our explorations of human complexities we have ever come upon anything more singular. The fellow will be here presently for cross-examination, so I won’t open the matter up till he comes. But meanwhile, that’s the name we want.’
Word Meanings:
whimsical (adj.): unusual and strange in a way that might be funny or annoying
complexities (phrase): the features of something that make it difficult to understand or find an answer to
fellow (n): a man, used especially in the past by people in a higher social class
cross-examination (n): the act of asking detailed questions to someone, especially a witness in a trial
Explanation of the passage: Holmes replied that the story about Garrideb was long and very strange. He said that in all the people they had met, they had never seen anything so unusual. Holmes told Watson that the man named Garrideb would come soon, so he didn’t want to explain everything just yet. For now, he said they should pay attention to the name Garrideb.
Passage: The telephone directory lay on the table beside me and I turned over the pages in a rather hopeless quest. But to my amazement there was this strange name in its due place. I gave a cry of triumph.
Here you are Holmes! Here it is!’
Holmes took the book from my hand.
‘Garrideb, N.’ he read, ‘136, Little Ryder Street, W. Sorry to disappoint you, my dear Watson, but this is the man himself. That is the address upon his letter. We want another to match him.’
Mrs Hudson had come in with a card upon a tray. I took it up and glanced at it.
Word Meanings:
hopeless (adj.): without hope
quest (n): a long search for something that is difficult to find, or an attempt to achieve something difficult
amazement (v): to cause someone to be extremely surprised
cry of triumph (n): a victorious shout or declaration, often marking a moment of significant achievement or overcoming a challenge
Explanation of the passage: Watson was searching through the telephone directory, feeling a bit hopeless, but then he was surprised to find the unusual name “Garrideb” listed there. Excited, he called out to Holmes to show him. Holmes took the book and read the entry aloud: “Garrideb, N., 136 Little Ryder Street.” Holmes told Watson that this was the same man mentioned in a letter they had received. However, Holmes explained that they needed to find another person with the same name. At that moment, Mrs. Hudson came into the room carrying a card on a tray, and Watson took it to look at.
Passage: ‘Why, here it is!’ I cried in amazement. ‘This is a different initial. John Garrideb, Counsellor at Law, Moorville, Kansas, U.S.A.’
Holmes smiled as he looked at the card. ‘I am afraid you must make yet another effort, Watson,’ said he. ‘This gentleman is also in the plot already, though I certainly did not expect to see him this morning. However, he is in a position to tell us a good deal which I want to know.’
Word Meanings:
counsellor (n): a lawyer
Explanation of the passage: Watson excitedly finds another card with a different name, John Garrideb, a lawyer from Kansas, USA. Holmes smiles and tells Watson that this man is already involved in the case, even though Holmes didn’t expect to meet him that day. Holmes believes that John Garrideb can provide important information that they need to learn.
Passage: A moment later he was in the room. Mr John Garrideb, Counsellor at Law, was a short, powerful man with the round, fresh clean-shaven face characteristic of so many American men of affairs. The general effect was chubby and rather childlike, so that one received the impression of quite a young man with a broad set smile upon his face. His eyes, however, were arresting. Seldom in any human head have I seen a pair which bespoke a more intense inward life, so bright were they, so alert, so responsive to every change of thought. His accent was American but was not accompanied by any eccentricity of speech.
Word Meanings:
men of affairs (n): a person engaged in commercial or industrial business (especially an owner or executive)
arresting (adj.): very attractive in a way that attracts a lot of attention
seldom (adv): almost never
bespoke (adj.): specially made for a particular person
inward (adj.): directed toward your self, your mind, or your spirit
responsive (adj.): saying or doing something as a reaction to something or someone, especially in a quick or positive way
eccentricity (adj.): strange or unusual, sometimes in a funny way
Explanation of the passage: The narrator describes Mr. John Garrideb as a short but strong man with a round, clean-shaven face, a look often seen in successful American businessmen. His appearance made him seem chubby and almost childlike, mainly because of his big, cheerful smile, which gave the impression that he was quite young. However, what stood out most were his eyes, they were very bright, alert, and full of deep thought. They showed that he was a sharp person. Although he had an American accent, he spoke clearly and normally without any strange or unusual way of speaking.
Passage: ‘Mr Holmes?’ he asked, glancing from one to the other. ‘Ah, yes! Your pictures are not unlike you, sir, if I may say so I believe you have had a letter from my namesake, Mr Nathan Garrideb, have you not?’
‘Pray sit down,’ said Sherlock Holmes. We shall, I fancy, have a good deal to discuss.’ He took up his sheets of foolscap.
You are, of course, the Mr John Garrideb mentioned in this document. But surely you have been in England some time?’
Word Meanings:
namesake (n): a person or thing having the same name as another person or thing
Explanation of the passage: Mr. John Garrideb enters the room and looks at both men, asking which one is Mr. Holmes. He says that Holmes looks like his photographs and then asks if Holmes has received a letter from Nathan Garrideb, who shares his last name. Holmes politely invites him to sit and says they will likely have a lot to talk about. He picks up his papers and confirms that the visitor is indeed the John Garrideb mentioned in the document. Holmes also notes that it seems like Mr. Garrideb has been in England for a while.
Passage: ‘Why do you say that, Mr Holmes?’ I seemed to read sudden suspicion in those expressive eyes. ‘
Your whole outfit is English.’
Mr Garrideb forced a laugh. ‘I’ve read of your tricks, Mr Holmes, but I never thought I would be the subject of them. Where do you read that?’
‘The shoulder cut of your coat, the toes of your boots— could anyone doubt it?’
Word Meanings:
suspicion (n): doubt or lack of trust
expressive (adj.): showing what someone thinks or feels
Explanation of the passage: In this paragraph, Holmes points out that Mr. Garrideb has likely been in England for some time. Mr. Garrideb is surprised and becomes slightly suspicious, asking Holmes why he thinks that. Holmes calmly explains that everything about Garrideb’s appearance, like his clothes and boots, look very English. Garrideb laughs awkwardly and says he had heard of Holmes’s clever observations but didn’t expect to be examined like that himself. Holmes replies that the way Garrideb’s coat fits at the shoulders and the shape of his boots clearly show he’s been dressed in England, making it hard to believe he just arrived from America.
Passage: ‘Well, well, I had no idea I was so obvious a Britisher. But business brought me over here some time ago and so, as you say, my outfit is nearly all London. However, I guess your time is of value and we did not meet to talk about the cut of my socks. What about getting down to that paper you hold in your hand?’
Holmes had, in some way, ruffled our visitor, whose chubby face had assumed a far less amiable expression.
‘Patience! Patience, Mr Garrideb!’ said my friend in a soothing voice. ‘Dr Watson would tell you that these little digressions of mine sometimes prove in the end to have some bearing on the matter. But why did Mr Nathan Garrideb not come with you?’
Word Meanings:
ruffled (adj.): upset
amiable (adj.): pleasant and friendly
soothing (adj.): making you feel calm
digressions (n): the action of moving away from the main subject you are talking about
bearing (n): to have an influence on something or a relationship to something
Explanation of the passage: John Garrideb tries to brush off Holmes’s observation by joking that he did not realize he looked so obviously British. He explains that he came to England for business some time ago, which is why most of his clothes are from London. However, he quickly tries to change the subject, saying that they should stop talking about his outfit and get to the main issue, the document Holmes is holding. It is clear that Holmes’s sharp observation has made him a bit uncomfortable, and his happy expression fades. Holmes gently asks him to be patient and explains that his small side comments often turn out to be important later. He then asks why Mr. Nathan Garrideb did not come along with him.
Passage: ‘Why did he ever drag you into it at all?’ asked our visitor, with a sudden outflame of anger. ‘What in thunder had you to do with it? Here was a bit of professional business between two gentlemen, and one of them must need call in a detective! I saw him this morning and he told me this fool-trick he had played on me, and that’s why I am here. But I feel bad about it, all the same.’
Word Meanings:
outflame of anger (phrase): a sudden, intense, and uncontrollable feeling of anger
What in thunder (phrase): to convey surprise, disbelief, or annoyance
detective (n): someone whose job is to discover information about crimes and find out who is responsible for them
fool-trick (v): to trick someone, often in a playful way
Explanation of the passage: Garrideb suddenly becomes angry and questions why Nathan Garrideb involved Sherlock Holmes in the matter at all. He says that it was supposed to be a private and professional matter between two men, and he is upset that Nathan decided to bring in a detective. He explains that he had met Nathan earlier that morning and learned about the “foolish trick” Nathan had played by involving Holmes. That is the reason John came to see Holmes, but despite being there, he admits that the whole situation still makes him feel uneasy and irritated.
Passage: ‘There was no reflection upon you, Mr Garrideb. It was simply zeal upon his part to gain your end—an end which is, I understand, equally vital for both of you. He knew that I had means of getting information and, therefore, it was very natural that he should apply to me.’
Our visitor’s angry face gradually cleared.
‘Well, that puts it different,’ said he, ‘When I went to see him this morning and he told me he had sent for a detective, I just asked for your address and came right away. I don’t want police butting into a private matter. But if you are content just to help us find the man, there can be no harm in that.’
Word Meanings:
zeal (n): great enthusiasm or eagerness
vital (adj.): necessary for the success or continued existence of something; extremely important
gradually (adv): slowly over a period of time
butting (v): to interrupt
Explanation of the passage: Sherlock Holmes explains that Nathan Garrideb did not mean to offend John by involving him. Nathan was simply eager to achieve their shared goal and knew that Holmes could help gather information. So, it made sense for him to seek Holmes’s help. Hearing this, John Garrideb starts to calm down and sees things differently. He explains that when Nathan told him about hiring a detective, he got Holmes’s address and came straight away. John says that he does not want the police involved in their personal matter, but he agrees that if Holmes is only going to help them find the other Garrideb, then he is fine with it.
Passage: ‘Well, that is just how it stands,’ said Holmes. ‘And now, sir, since you are here, we had best have a clear account from your own lips. My friend here knows nothing of the details.’
Mr Garrideb surveyed me with not too friendly a gaze.
‘Need he know?’ he asked.
‘We usually work together.’
Word Meanings:
surveyed (v): to look at or examine all of something, especially carefully
gaze (v): to look at something or someone for a long time
Explanation of the passage: Holmes tells Mr. Garrideb that since he is already there, it would be best if he clearly explained the whole story himself, especially because Dr. Watson hadn’t heard the details yet. Mr. Garrideb looked at Watson with an unfriendly expression and questioned whether Watson really needed to know everything. Holmes responded saying that he and Watson usually worked together, meaning that Watson’s involvement was important and necessary.
Passage: ‘Well, there’s no reason it should be kept a secret. I’ll give you the facts as short as I can make them. If you came from Kansas I would not need to explain to you who Alexander Hamilton Garrideb was. He made his money in real estate and, afterwards, in the wheat pit at Chicago, but he spent it in buying up as much land as would make one of your counties, lying along the Arkansas River, west of Fort Dodge. It’s grazing land and lumber land and Arabic land and mineralised land, and just every sort of land that brings dollars to the man that owns it.
Word Meanings:
wheat pit (n): market or exchange where wheat stalks(stems of the wheat plant) are bought and sold.
counties (n): the largest political division of most states in the US
grazing land (n): land where farm animals can feed on grass
lumber land (n): land where wood is harvested
mineralised land (n): land where valuable minerals are found
Explanation of the passage: Garrideb said there’s no need to hide anything and that he would explain everything simply. He mentioned that if Holmes were from Kansas, he would already know about Alexander Hamilton Garrideb. This man made a lot of money by selling houses and later by trading wheat in Chicago. He then used his money to buy a huge area of land near the Arkansas River, west of Fort Dodge. The land included different types like, grasslands, forests, farmland, and land with valuable minerals, basically, all kinds of land that could help someone get rich.
Passage: ‘He had no kith nor kin—or, if he had, I never heard of it. But he took a kind of pride in the queerness of his name. That was what brought us together. I was in the law at Topeka, and one day I had a visit from the old man and he was tickled to death to meet another man with his own name. It was his pet fad and he was dead set to find out if there were any more Garridebs in the world. ‘Find me another!’ said he. I told him I was a busy man and could not spend my life hiking round the world in search of Garridebs. ‘None the less,’ said he, ‘that is just what you will do if things pan out as I planned them.’ I thought he was joking, but there was a powerful lot of meaning in the words, as I was soon to discover.
Word Meanings:
kith nor kin (n): people you are connected with, especially by family relationships
queerness (n): the fact of being strange, unusual, or not expected
tickled to death (idiom): to be very pleased or happy about something
pet fad (n): a style, activity, or interest that is very popular for a short period of time
Explanation of the passage: Garrideb continues to say that Alexander Hamilton Garrideb had no family, at least none that he knew of. But the old man was very proud of his unusual last name. That was actually how they met. Mr. Garrideb was working as a lawyer in Topeka when the old man came to visit him and was really happy to meet someone with the same name. Finding more people named “Garrideb” had become his favorite hobby, and he wanted to track down others. He told Mr. Garrideb to find him another person with the same name, but Mr. Garrideb explained that he was too busy to go searching the world for people with that name. The old man still said that he would do exactly that if things went the way he had planned. Mr. Garrideb thought it was a joke at first, but he soon realized those words were serious.
Passage: ‘For he died within a year of saying them and he left a will behind him. It was the queerest will that has ever been filed in the State of Kansas. His property was divided into three parts and I was to have one on condition that I found two Garridebs who would share the remainder. It’s five million dollars for each if it is a cent, but we can’t lay a finger on it until we all three stand in a row.
Word Meanings:
will (n): an official statement of what a person has decided should be done with their money and property after their death
cent (n): a unit of money worth 0.01 of a dollar
Explanation of the passage : Alexander Hamilton Garrideb died within a year after making his unusual request. He left behind a very strange will in the State of Kansas. In the will, Alexander divided his property into three parts. Nathan was supposed to receive one part, but only if he could find two other men named Garrideb to share the other two parts. Each person would get five million dollars if the money existed, but none of them could claim it unless all three Garridebs were together at the same time.
Passage: ‘It was so big a chance that I just let my legal practice slide and I set forth looking for Garridebs. There is not one in the United States. I went through it, sir, with a fine toothed comb and never a Garrideb could I catch. Then I tried the old country. Sure enough there was the name in the London Telephone Directory. I went after him two days ago and explained the whole matter to him. But he is a lone man, like myself, with some women relations, but no men. It says three adult men in the will. So you see we still have a vacancy and if you can help to fill it we will be very ready to pay your charges.’
Word Meanings:
fine toothed comb (n): a comb with narrow teeth that are close together
vacancy (n): a place or position that is available
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb continued stating the chance to get the money was so big that he stopped working on his law practice and started searching for other men named Garrideb. He searched all over the United States but could not find any. Then he looked in England and found the name in the London telephone directory. He met Nathan Garrideb there two days ago and explained everything. However, that man lived alone and only had female relatives, but the will required three adult men. So, Nathan told Holmes and Watson that there was still one man missing, and if they could find him, he would happily pay for their help.
Passage: ‘Well, Watson,’ said Holmes, with a smile, ‘I said it was rather whimsical, did I not? I should have thought, sir, that your obvious way was to advertise in the agony columns of the papers.’
‘I have done that, Mr Holmes. No replies.’
‘Dear me! Well, it is certainly a most curious little problem. I may take a glance at it in my leisure. By the way, it is curious that you should have come from Topeka. I used to have a correspondent—he is dead now—old Dr Lysander Starr, who was Mayor in 1890.’
Word Meanings:
advertise (v): to make something known generally or in public, especially in order to sell it
agony column (n): the part of a magazine or newspaper where letters from readers about their personal problems are printed, together with advice about how to deal with them
leisure (n): the time when you are not working or doing other duties
correspondent (n): a person who writes letters to another person
Mayor (n): a person who is elected or chosen to lead the group who governs a town or city
Explanation of the passage : Holmes smiled and said to Watson that the case was quite strange. He advised that the best way to find the missing Garrideb might be to put an ad in the newspaper’s “help wanted” section. Nathan Garrideb replied that he had already tried that but didn’t get any answers. Holmes found the whole matter very curious and said he might look into it when he had some free time. Then he added it was interesting that Nathan came from Topeka because Holmes once had a pen pal there, Dr. Lysander Starr, who used to be the mayor but had passed away.
Passage: ‘Good old Dr Starr!’ said our visitor. ‘His name is still honoured. Well, Mr Holmes, I suppose all we can do is to report to you and let you know how we progress. I reckon you will hear within a day or two.’ With this assurance our American bowed and departed.
Holmes had lit his pipe, and he sat for some time with a curious smile upon his face.
‘Well?’ I asked at last.
‘I am wondering, Watson—just wondering!’
‘At what?’
Holmes took his pipe from his lips.
Word Meanings:
honoured (n): to show great respect for someone or something
reckon (v): to think or believe
assurance (n): a promise to tell something to someone confidently or firmly
departed (v): to go away or leave
pipe (n): a short, narrow tube with a small container at one end, used for smoking tobacco
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb spoke kindly about Dr. Starr and said people still respected him. Then he told Holmes that they would keep him updated on their progress and that Holmes would probably hear from them in a day or two. After saying this, Mr. Garrideb politely bowed and left the room. Holmes lit his pipe and sat quietly for a while, smiling as if he was thinking about something. Watson finally asked what Holmes was thinking about. Holmes said he was just deep in thought, and when Watson asked what about, Holmes took his pipe away from his mouth, ready to explain.
Passage: ‘I was wondering, Watson, what on earth could be the object of this man in telling us such a rigmarole of lies. I nearly asked him so—for there are times when a brutal frontal attack is the best policy—but I judged it better to let him think he had fooled us. Here is a man with an English coat frayed at the elbow and trousers bagged at the knee with a year’s wear, and yet by this document and by his own account he is a provincial American lately landed in London. There have been no advertisements in the agony columns. You know that I miss nothing there. They are my favourite covert for putting up a bird and I would never have overlooked such a cock pheasant as that. I never knew a Dr Lysander Starr of Topeka. Touch him where you would he was false. I think the fellow is really an American, but he has worn his accent smooth with years of London. What is his game, then, and what motive lies behind this preposterous search for Garridebs? It’s worth our attention, for, granting that the man is a rascal, he is certainly a complex and ingenious one. We must now find out if our other correspondent is a fraud also. Just ring him up, Watson.’
Word Meanings:
rigmarole of lies (phrase): a long set of lies and words without any real purpose
frayed (adj.): with the threads at the edge coming loose
provincial (n): a person who comes from somewhere in a country outside its capital city
covert (adj.): hidden or secret
overlooked (v): to fail to notice or consider something or someone
cock pheasant (n): male pheasant (a type of bird), here used as a slang or phrase meaning something or someone very obvious or easy to spot
preposterous (adj.): very silly or stupid
rascal (n): a dishonest person
ingenious (adj.): very intelligent and skilful
Explanation of the passage : Holmes told Watson that he was wondering why Mr. Garrideb had told them such a long story full of lies. Holmes almost asked him directly but decided it was better to let Garrideb think he had fooled them. Holmes noticed that Garrideb’s clothes looked old and worn, but the man said he was a new American visitor to London. Holmes knew there had been no ads placed in the newspapers, which he always checks carefully, and he had never heard of Dr. Lysander Starr from Topeka. Holmes believed Garrideb was really an American who had lived in London so long that he had learned to speak without a strong accent. Holmes was curious about what Garrideb’s real plan was and why he was so eager to find other men named Garrideb. Holmes said this was important because even if Garrideb was not honest, he was a clever and complicated person. Now they needed to check if the other man they heard from was also lying. Holmes told Watson to call him right away.
Passage: I did so, and heard a thin, quavering voice at the other end of the line.
‘Yes, yes, I am Mr Nathan Garrideb. Is Mr Holmes there? I should very much like to have a word with Mr Holmes.’
My friend took the instrument and I heard the usual syncopated dialogue.
‘Yes, he has been here. I understand that you don’t know him… How long? Only two days!… Yes, yes, of course it is a most captivating prospect. Will you be at home this evening? I suppose your namesake will not be there?… Very good, we will come then, for I would rather have a chat without him… Dr Watson will come with me… I understood from your note that you did not go out often… Well, we shall be round about six. You need not mention it to the American lawyer… Very good. Good-bye!’
Word Meanings:
quavering (n): a slight shake in someone’s voice
syncopated dialogue (n): a conversation or discussion where the rhythm and flow of speech are not regular or cannot be predicted, often with emphasis or pauses placed on unexpected parts of a phrase or sentence
captivating (adj.): holding your attention by being extremely interesting, exciting, pleasant, or attractive
prospect (n): the chance of something happening
Explanation of the passage : Watson called Mr. Nathan Garrideb on the phone. Nathan’s voice sounded weak. Nathan asked if Sherlock Holmes was there because he wanted to talk to him. Holmes took the phone and they talked. Holmes asked Nathan how long he had known Mr. John Garrideb, the American lawyer. Holmes then made plans to visit Nathan at his home around six in the evening. Nathan said he preferred to talk without John Garrideb being there. Holmes told Nathan that Dr. Watson would come along too. Nathan mentioned he did not go out much, so it was easier to meet at his house. They ended the call, agreeing on the visit.
Passage:
It was twilight of a lovely spring evening and even Little Ryder Street, one of the smaller offshoots from the Edgware Road, within a stone-cast of old Tyburn Tree of evil memory, looked golden and wonderful in the slanting rays of the setting sun. The particular house to which we were directed was a large, old-fashioned, Early Georgian edifice with a fat brick face broken only by two deep bay windows on the ground floor. It was on this ground floor that our client lived and, indeed, the low windows proved to be the front of the huge room in which he spent his waking hours. Holmes pointed as we passed to the small brass plate which bore the curious name.
Word Meanings:
twilight (n): the period just before it becomes completely dark in the evening
offshoots (n): something that has developed from something larger that already existed
stone-cast (n): a short distance
edifice (n): a large building, especially an impressive one
bay windows (n): a window that sticks out from the outer wall of a house and usually has three sides
bore (v): to carry or contain something
Explanation of the passage : It was evening, and the Sun was setting on a nice spring day. Even the small street called Little Ryder Street looked pretty in the sunlight. Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, and their client went to a big, old house on this street. The house had thick brick walls and two big windows on the bottom floor. Their client, Mr. Nathan Garrideb, lived on that floor in a large room. Holmes showed Watson a small nameplate on the door with Mr. Garrideb’s name on it.
Passage: ‘Up some years, Watson,’ he remarked, indicating its discoloured surface. ‘It’s his real name, anyhow, and that is something to note.’
The house had a common stair and there were a number of names painted in the hall, some indicating offices and some private chambers. It was not a collection of residential flats, but rather the abode of Bohemian bachelors. Our client opened the door for us himself and apologised by saying that the woman in charge left at four o’clock. Mr Nathan Garrideb proved to be a very tall, loose jointed, round-backed person, gaunt and bald, some sixty-odd years of age. He had a cadaverous face, with the dull dead skin of a man to whom exercise was unknown. Large round spectacles and a small projecting goat’s beard combined with his stooping attitude to give him an expression of peering curiosity. The general effect, however, was amiable, though eccentric.
Word Meanings:
discoloured (adj.): changed in colour in a way that is less attractive
chambers (n): a private room
abode (n): the place where someone lives
Bohemian (n): a person who is interested in artistic and unusual things, for example art, music, or literature, and lives in an informal way that ignores the usually accepted ways of behaving
bachelors (n): a man who has never married
loose jointed (adj.): A loose-jointed person moves and bends their body, especially their arms and legs, very easily
round-backed (adj.): having the back and shoulders rounded and not straight
gaunt (adj.): very thin, especially because of sickness or hunger
cadaverous face (adj.): looking pale, thin, and ill
stooping (v): to bend the top half of the body forward and down
peering (v): to look carefully
Explanation of the passage : Holmes told Watson that the name on the door was old but real. The house had one main staircase and many names painted in the hallway, showing that some rooms were offices and others were private. It wasn’t an apartment building but a place where single men lived. Mr. Nathan Garrideb himself opened the door and said sorry that the woman who usually looked after the place had left at four o’clock. Nathan Garrideb was very tall and thin with a round back. He looked about sixty years old, with a pale, unhealthy face like someone who did not get much exercise. He wore big round glasses and had a small pointed beard. He also stood in a way that made him look like he was always watching carefully. Even though he looked a little strange, he appeared friendly.
Passage: The room was as curious as its occupant. It looked like a small museum. It was both broad and deep, with cupboards and cabinets all round, crowded with specimens, geological and anatomical. Cases of butterflies and moths flanked each side of the entrance. A large table in the centre was littered with all sorts of debris, while the tall brass tube of a powerful microscope bristled up amongst them. As I glanced round I was surprised at the universality of the man’s interests. Here was a case of ancient coins. There was a cabinet of flint instruments. Behind his central table was a large cupboard of fossil bones. Above was a line of plaster skulls with such names as ‘Neanderthal’, ‘Heidelberg ‘,’ ‘Cromagnan’ printed beneath them. It was clear that he was a student of many subjects. As he stood in front of us now, he held a piece of chamois leather in his right hand with which he was polishing a coin.
Word Meanings:
cupboards (n): a piece of furniture or a space for storing things, with a door or doors and usually with shelves
cabinets (n): a piece of furniture with shelves, cupboards, or drawers, used for storing or showing things
specimens (adj.): used to refer to a container for things collected for medical or scientific use
geological (adj.): relating to geology, i.e., the study of the rocks and similar substances that make up the earth’s surface
anatomical (adj.): relating to the scientific study and representation of the physical body and how its parts are arranged
flanked (v): to be at the side of someone or something
littered (n): small pieces of rubbish that have been left lying on the ground
debris (n): broken or torn pieces left from the destruction of something larger
microscope (n): a device that uses lenses to make very small objects look larger, so that they can be scientifically examined and studied
bristled (v): to stand up
flint (n): shiny grey or black stone that is like glass
fossil (n): the shape of a bone, a shell, or a plant or animal that has been preserved in rock for a very long period
Neanderthal (n): a type of primitive people who lived in Europe and Asia from about 150,000 to 30,000 years ago
Heidelberg (n): fossils of archaic humans that are dated to between 600,000 and 200,000 years ago found in various locations across the globe, including Europe, Africa, and Asia
Cro magnon (n): an early type of human being whose fossil remains have been found in Europe and the surrounding areas
chamois leather (n): a soft material, traditionally made from the skin of the chamois, a small animal like a goat that lives in the mountains of Europe and southwestern Asia
Explanation of the passage : Mr. Nathan Garrideb’s room is described as just as strange and interesting as he was. It looked more like a small museum than a living space. The room was big, with shelves and cabinets filled with different types of items, like rocks, bones, and other scientific things. Near the entrance, there were display cases full of butterflies and moths.
In the middle of the room, there was a large table covered in all kinds of objects. Among them was a tall microscope, showing he did close-up studies too. Dr. Watson noticed how many different things Mr. Garrideb was interested in. There was a case full of old coins, a cabinet with stone tools, and behind the table, a cupboard filled with fossil bones. Above the cupboard, there was a row of model skulls with labels like “Neanderthal,” “Heidelberg,” and “Cro-Magnon,” showing Mr. Garrideb studied ancient human history too. He had a wide range of interests. At that moment, Mr. Garrideb was holding a soft leather cloth in his hand and polishing a coin, probably one from his collection.
Passage: ‘Syracusan—of the best period,’ he explained, holding it up. ‘They degenerated greatly towards the end. At their best I hold them supreme, though some prefer the Alexandrian school. You will find a chair here, Mr Holmes. Pray allow me to clear these bones. And you, sir—ah, yes, Dr Watson—if you would have the goodness to put the Japanese vase to one side. You see round me my little interests in life. My doctor lectures me about never going out, but why should I go out when I have so much to hold me here? I can assure you that the adequate cataloguing of one of those cabinets would take me three good months.’
Word Meanings:
Syracusan (n): a city in Sicily, Italy
degenerated (v): to become worse in quality
Alexandrian (n): the coins produced by the city of Alexandria in ancient Egypt, particularly during the Roman period
cataloguing (v): to record something, especially in a list
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb showed Holmes and Watson a coin and explained that it was from Syracuse and belonged to the best period of its history. He said the quality of such coins had worsened a lot later, but he believed the Syracusan ones, at their best, were the finest, even though some people preferred coins from the Alexandrian period. He then offered Holmes a chair and started clearing some bones from it. He asked Watson to move a Japanese vase to the side so he could sit. Nathan told them that his collection kept him busy and happy inside his room. Even though his doctor often scolded him for never going outside, Nathan felt there was no reason to leave when he had so many interesting things to do at home. He said that just organizing one of his cabinets properly would take him three whole months.
Passage: Holmes looked round him with curiosity.
‘But do you tell me that you never go out?’ he said.
‘Now and again I drive down to Sotheby’s or Christie’s. Otherwise I very seldom leave my room. I am not too strong and my researches are very absorbing. But you can imagine, Mr Holmes, what a terrific shock—pleasant but terrific—it was for me when I heard of this unparalleled good fortune. It only needs one more Garrideb to complete the matter and surely we can find one; I had a brother, but he is dead, and female relatives are disqualified. But there must surely be others in the world. I had heard that you handled strange cases, and that was why I sent for you. Of course, this American gentleman is quite right, and I should have taken his advice first, but I acted for the best.’
Word Meanings:
absorbing (adj.): Something that is absorbing is very interesting and keeps your attention
terrific (adj.): very good
unparalleled (adj.): having no equal; better or greater than any other
fortune (n): a large amount of money, goods, property, etc.
disqualified (v): to stop someone from being in a competition or doing something because they are unsuitable
Explanation of the passage : Holmes looked around the room with interest and asked Mr. Nathan Garrideb if he really never went outside. Nathan replied that he sometimes took a drive to auction houses, but apart from that, he hardly ever left his room. He explained that his health wasn’t very strong and that his research work kept him fully occupied. Nathan then said that hearing about the possibility of inheriting a fortune was a huge surprise for him, both shocking and exciting. He mentioned that they only needed to find one more man named Garrideb to complete the requirements of the will. He had a brother, but the brother had died, and female relatives didn’t count according to the will’s conditions. However, he believed there must be other Garridebs somewhere in the world. He had heard that Sherlock Holmes worked on strange and unusual cases, which is why he decided to contact him. He admitted that the American gentleman, John Garrideb, was probably right in his approach and that he should have listened to him first, but he believed he had done what he thought was best.
Passage: ‘I think you acted very wisely indeed,’ said Holmes. ‘But are you really anxious to acquire an estate in America?’
‘Certainly not, sir. Nothing would induce me to leave my collection. But this gentleman has assured me that he will buy me out as soon as we have established our claim. Five million dollars was the sum named. There are a dozen specimens in the market at the present moment which fill gaps in my collection, and which I am unable to purchase for want of a few hundred pounds. Just think what I could do with five million dollars. Why, I have the nucleus of a national collection. I shall be the Hans Sloane of my age.’
Word Meanings:
anxious (adj.): worried and nervous
estate (n): a large area of land in the country that is owned by a family or an organization and is often used for growing crops or raising animals
nucleus (n): the central part of something
Hans Sloane (n): Anglo-Irish physician and collector. He had a collection of 71,000 items which he gave to the British nation, thus providing the foundation of the British Museum
Explanation of the passage : Holmes told Nathan Garrideb that he believed Nathan had made a very smart decision by reaching out. Then Holmes asked if Nathan really wanted to move to America to claim the estate. Nathan replied that he absolutely did not want to go to America, nothing could make him leave his collection of valuable items. He explained that John Garrideb, the American, had promised to buy him out once they found the third Garrideb and could claim the inheritance. The amount mentioned was five million dollars. Nathan said there were about a dozen rare items currently on the market that he really wanted for his collection, but he could not afford them at the moment because he lacked a few hundred pounds. With five million dollars, he could easily buy them all. Nathan excitedly said that he already had the beginnings of a national-level collection and, with that kind of money, he could become as important a collector as Hans Sloane, the famous collector who helped start the British Museum.
Passage: His eyes gleamed behind his great spectacles. It was very clear that no pains would be spared by Mr Nathan Garrideb in finding a namesake.
‘I merely called to make your acquaintance and there is no reason why I should interrupt your studies,’ said Holmes. ‘I prefer to establish personal touch with those with whom I do business. There are few questions I need ask, for I have your very clear narrative in my pocket and I filled up the blanks when this American gentleman called. I understand that up to this week you were unaware of his existence.’
Word Meanings:
gleamed (v): when eyes gleam, they shine in a way that expresses a particular emotion
spared (v): left over
acquaintance (v): used in some expressions about knowing or meeting people:
narrative (n): a particular way of explaining or understanding events
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb’s eyes shone brightly behind his large glasses. It was obvious that he would do everything he could to find another person named Garrideb. Sherlock Holmes then said he had only come to meet Nathan in person and did not want to disturb his research. Holmes explained that he liked to personally meet the people he worked with. He added that he did not have many questions because he already had Nathan’s detailed letter and had figured out the missing parts when the American, John Garrideb, had visited earlier. Holmes then asked Nathan to confirm that he hadn’t known about John Garrideb’s existence until this week.
Passage: ‘That is so. He called last Tuesday.’
‘Did he tell you of our interview today?’
‘Yes, he came straight back to me. He had been very angry.’
‘Why should he be angry?’
‘He seemed to think it was some reflection on his honour. But he was quite cheerful again when he returned.’
‘Did he suggest any course of action?’
Word Meanings:
cheerful (adj.): happy and positive
course of action (n): something that is done in order to get a particular result
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb told Sherlock Holmes that John Garrideb had first visited him the previous Tuesday. When Sherlock asked if John had mentioned their meeting earlier that day, Nathan confirmed that he had. According to Nathan, John had returned quite upset after speaking with Holmes. He seemed offended, as though Holmes had questioned his honesty. However, John quickly calmed down and became cheerful again. Holmes then asked whether John had suggested what to do next.
Passage:
‘No, sir, he did not.’
‘Has he had, or asked for, any money from you?’
‘No, sir, never!’
‘You see no possible object he has in view?’
‘None, except what he states.’
‘Did you tell him of our telephone appointment?’
‘Yes, sir, I did.’
Holmes was lost in thought. I could see that he was puzzled.
‘Have you any articles of great value in your collection?’
Word Meanings:
puzzled (n): a situation that is difficult to understand
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb replied to Holmes that John Garrideb, the American, had not suggested any plan of action. When Holmes asked whether John had ever taken or asked for any money, Nathan said that he never had. Holmes then asked if Nathan could think of any other reason John might have for involving him in that matter, and Nathan said there was none, only what John had explained. Nathan also confirmed that he had told John about their phone appointment. Holmes appeared deep in thought and clearly confused by the situation. He then asked Nathan if there were any valuable items in his collection.
Passage:
‘No, sir. I am not a rich man. It is a good collection, but not a very valuable one.’
‘You have no fear of burglars?’
‘Not the least.’
‘How long have you been in these rooms?’
‘Nearly five years.’
Word Meanings:
burglars (n): a person who illegally enters buildings and steals things
Explanation of the passage : Garrideb replied he was not a rich man. He explained that his collection was good but not very valuable in terms of money. When Holmes asked if he feared thieves breaking in, Nathan said he did not. He also said that he had been living in those rooms for almost five years.
Passage: Holmes’s cross-examination was interrupted by an imperative knocking at the door. No sooner had our client unlatched it than the American lawyer burst excitedly into the room.
‘Here you are!’ he cried, waving a paper over his head. ‘I thought I should be in time to get you. Mr Nathan Garrideb, my congratulations! You are a rich man, sir. Our business is happily finished and all is well. As to you, Mr Holmes, we can only say we are sorry if we have given you any useless trouble.’
Word Meanings:
imperative (adj.): extremely important or urgent
unlatched (v): to open the latch (a device for keeping a door or gate closed) of a door or gate
Explanation of the passage : While Holmes was asking questions, there was a loud knock at the door. Nathan Garrideb quickly opened it, and the American lawyer came in excitedly, holding up a paper. He said that he thought he would arrive just in time to see Nathan Garrideb. He congratulated Garrideb, telling him that he was now a rich man. He said their business was happily finished and all was well. Then he apologized to Holmes if they had caused him any trouble.
Passage:
He handed over the paper to our client, who stood staring at a marked advertisement. Holmes and I leaned forward and read it over his shoulder. This is how it ran—
‘Glorious!’ gasped our host. ‘That makes our third man.’
‘I had opened up inquiries in Birmingham,’ said the American, ‘and my agent there has sent me this advertisement from a local paper. We must hustle and put the thing through. I have written to this man and told him that you will see him in his office tomorrow afternoon at four o’clock.’
‘You want me to see him?’
‘What do you say, Mr Holmes? Don’t you think it would be wiser? Here am I, a wandering American with a wonderful tale. Why should he believe what I tell him? But you are a Britisher with solid references and he is bound to take notice of what you say. I would go with you if you wished, but I have a very busy day tomorrow and I could always follow you if you are in any trouble.’
Word Meanings:
Glorious (adj.): an exclamation of praise, and honour
inquiries (n): the act of asking for information
hustle (v): to act quickly
wandering (n): someone who often travels from place to place, especially without any clear aim or purpose
references (n): a person who knows you
Explanation of the passage : The American lawyer gave a paper to Nathan Garrideb, who carefully looked at an advertisement that was marked on it. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson also read the advertisement with him. Nathan was very excited and said that this meant they had found the third man they needed. The American explained that he had asked his agent in Birmingham to look for the missing person, and the agent found this advertisement in a local newspaper. He said they needed to act quickly to finish their plan. The American told Nathan that he had already written to the man in the advertisement and arranged for Nathan to meet him at his office the next day at four o’clock. Nathan asked if he should go alone, and the American asked Holmes what he thought. The American said that since he was just a traveling American with a strange story, people might not believe him. But Holmes, being a respected British gentleman with good connections, would be taken more seriously. He offered to come with Holmes, but said he had a busy day and could follow later if Holmes needed help.
Passage:
‘Well, I have not made such a journey for years.’
‘It is nothing, Mr Garrideb. I have figured out your connections. You leave at twelve and should be there soon after two. Then you can be back the same night. All you have to do is to see this man, explain the matter and get an affidavit of his existence. By the Lord!’ he added, hotly, ‘considering I’ve come all the way from the centre of America, it is surely little enough if you go a hundred miles in order to put this matter through.’
Word Meanings:
affidavit (n): a written statement that someone makes after promising officially to tell the truth
hotly (adv): in an angry or excited way
Explanation of the passage : Nathan Garrideb said that he hadn’t traveled such a long way for many years. The American lawyer replied that it was no big deal and that he had planned everything out. He told Nathan to leave at twelve noon and he should arrive at the place a little after two in the afternoon. Then Nathan could return the same night. The lawyer said all Nathan needed to do was to meet the man, explain the situation, and get a written statement confirming that the man existed. Then, the lawyer got a bit passionate and said that since he himself traveled all the way from the middle of America, it is only fair for Nathan to travel about a hundred miles to finish the matter.
Passage:
‘Quite so,’ said Holmes. ‘I think what this gentleman says is very true.’
Mr Nathan Garrideb shrugged his shoulders with a disconsolate air. ‘Well, If you insist I shall go,’ said he. ‘It is certainly hard for me to refuse you anything, considering the glory of hope that you have brought into my life.’
‘Then that is agreed,’ said Holmes, ‘and no doubt you will let me have a report as soon as you can.’
‘I’ll see to that,’ said the American. ‘Well,’ he added, looking at his watch, ‘I’ll have to get on. I’ll call tomorrow, Mr Nathan, and see you off to Birmingham. Coming my way, Mr Holmes? Well, then, good-bye and we may have good news for you tomorrow night.’
Word Meanings:
with a disconsolate air (adj.): extremely sad and disappointed
Explanation of the passage : Holmes agreed with the American lawyer and said that what the lawyer said was true. Nathan Garrideb looked a bit sad but said he would go if they insisted. He said it was hard for him to say no because the hope they gave him was very exciting. Holmes said it was decided and asked Nathan to give him a report as soon as possible. The American lawyer said he would take care of that. Then, looking at his watch, the lawyer said he needed to leave and promised to come back the next day to see Nathan off to Birmingham. He asked Holmes if he was going that way too. After Holmes said yes, the lawyer said goodbye and hoped to bring good news by the next night.
Passage: I noticed that my friend’s face cleared when the American left the room and the look of thoughtful perplexity had vanished.
‘I wish I could look over your collection, Mr Garrideb,’ said he. ‘In my profession all sorts of odd knowledge comes useful and this room of yours is a storehouse of it.’
Our client shone with pleasure and his eyes gleamed from behind his big glasses.
‘I had always heard, sir, that you were a very intelligent man,’ said he. ‘I could take you round now, if you have the time.’
Word Meanings:
thoughtful (adj.): carefully considering things
perplexity (n): a state of confusion or a complicated and difficult situation or thing
storehouse (n): something that provides a lot of information, ideas, memories, etc.
Explanation of the passage : Dr. Watson saw that Sherlock Holmes’s face looked clearer and he was no longer looking confused after the American lawyer left. Holmes said he wished to look at Mr. Nathan Garrideb’s collection because all kinds of strange knowledge were useful in his work, and the room was full of such things. Mr. Nathan Garrideb was happy to hear this. He said he had always heard that Holmes was very intelligent and offered to show him around the collection if he had time.
Passage: ‘Unfortunately, I have not. But these specimens are so well labelled and classified that they hardly need your personal explanation . If I should be able to look in tomorrow, I presume that there would be no objection to my glancing over them?
‘None at all. You are most welcome. The place will, of course, be shut up, but Mrs Saunders is in the basement up to four o’clock and would let you in with her key.’
‘Well, I happen to be clear tomorrow afternoon. If you would say a word to Mrs Saunders it would be quite in order. By the way, who is your house-agent?’
Our client was amazed at the sudden question.
‘Holloway and Steele, in the Edgware Road. But why?’
Word Meanings:
classified (adj.): used to describe information that is arranged by type
glancing (v): to give a quick short look
house-agent (n): someone whose job is to help you sell or buy a house
amazed (adj.): extremely surprised
Explanation of the passage : Holmes said that he hadn’t looked closely at the specimens yet, but since they were well labeled and organized, he didn’t really need an explanation. Holmes asked if it would be okay to visit the next day to look at the collection. Mr. Nathan Garrideb said there was no problem at all and that Holmes was very welcome. He explained that the place would be locked, but Mrs. Saunders, who worked in the basement, could let Holmes in with her key. Holmes then said he was free tomorrow afternoon and asked Garrideb to tell Mrs. Saunders about it. Holmes also asked who their house-agent was. Garrideb was surprised by this question and replied that the agent was Holloway and Steele, located on Edgware Road. He asked Holmes why he wanted to know.
Passage: ‘I am a bit of an archaeologist myself when it comes to houses,’ said Holmes, laughing. ‘I was wondering if this was Queen Anne or Georgian.’
‘Georgian, beyond doubt.’
‘Really. I should have thought a little earlier. However, it is easily ascertained. Well, good-bye, Mr Garrideb and may you have every success in your Birmingham journey.’
The house-agent’s was close by, but we found that it was closed for the day, so we made our way back to Baker Street. It was not till after dinner that Holmes reverted to the subject.
‘Our little problem draws to a close,’ said he. ‘No doubt you have outlined the solution in your own mind.’
Word Meanings:
archaeologist (n): someone who studies the buildings, graves, tools, and other objects of people who lived in the past
ascertained (v): to discover something
Explanation of the passage : Watson saw Sherlock Holmes jokingly say that he was a bit of an archaeologist when it came to houses, and that’s why he had asked about the house’s style and whether it was from the period of Queen Anne or the Georgian era. Nathan confidently replied that it was definitely Georgian. Holmes said he had thought it might be a little older. Holmes then said goodbye and wished Mr. Garrideb success on his upcoming trip to Birmingham. After they left, Holmes and Watson went to the house-agent’s office nearby, but it was already closed. So, they returned to Baker Street. Later that evening, after dinner, Holmes brought the topic back up and told Watson that their little mystery was coming to an end. Holmes added that Watson had probably already figured out the answer in his own mind.
Passage: ‘I can make neither head nor tail of it.’
‘The head is surely clear enough and the tail we should see tomorrow. Did you notice nothing curious about that advertisement?’
‘I saw that the word ‘plough’ was misspelt.’
‘Oh, you did notice that, did you? Come, Watson, you improve all the time. Yes, it was bad English but good American. The printer had set it up as received. Then the buckboards. That is American also. And artesian wells are commoner with them than with us. It was a typical American advertisement, but purporting to be from an English firm. What do you make of that?’
Word Meanings:
plough (n): a large farming tool with blades that digs the soil in fields so that seeds can be planted
misspelt (v): to fail to spell a word
buckboards (n): a four-wheeled vehicle with a floor made of longboards
artesian wells (n): a well that brings groundwater to the surface without pumping
purporting (v): to pretend to be or to do something, especially in a way that is not easy to believe
Explanation of the passage : Watson told Holmes that he was completely confused and could not understand the situation at all. Holmes replied that the beginning part (the head) was quite clear, and the rest (the tail) would become clear the next day. Holmes then asked if Watson had noticed anything strange about the advertisement they had read earlier. Watson said that he had seen the word “plough” misspelled. Holmes was happy and said Watson was improving. He explained that while the English in the ad was bad, it was actually correct American usage. The spelling and terms like “buckboards” and “artesian wells” were typically American. However, the advertisement was supposed to be from an English company. Holmes pointed out that this was suspicious and asked Watson what he thought about that detail.
Passage: ‘I can only suppose that this American lawyer put it in himself. What his object was I fail to understand.’
‘Well, there are alternative explanations. Anyhow, he wanted to get this good old fossil up to Birmingham. That is very clear. I might have told him that he was clearly going on a wild-goose chase, but, on second thoughts, it seemed better to clear the stage by letting him go. Tomorrow, Watson—well, tomorrow will speak for itself.’
Holmes was up and out early. When he returned at lunch-time I noticed that his face was very grave.
‘This is a more serious matter than I had expected, Watson,’ said he. ‘It is fair to tell you so, though I know it will only be an additional reason to you for running your head into danger. I should know my Watson by now. But there is danger, and you should know it.’
Word Meanings:
wild-goose chase (n): a search that is completely unsuccessful and a waste of time
grave (adj.): urgent and very bad; serious
Explanation of the passage : Dr. Watson guessed that the American lawyer must have placed the strange advertisement himself, but he could not understand the reason. Holmes replied that there could be different explanations, but what was clear was that the lawyer wanted Mr. Nathan Garrideb to go to Birmingham. Holmes could have told Garrideb that the trip was pointless, but he decided it was better to let him go and “clear the stage,” meaning it would be easier to act without him around. Holmes ended by saying that they would find out more tomorrow. The next day, Holmes left early in the morning. When he came back around lunchtime, Dr. Watson noticed that Holmes looked very serious. Holmes told Watson that the situation had turned out to be more serious than he had expected. He warned Watson that there was danger involved, but also acknowledged that this warning would probably only make Watson more determined to help. Holmes clearly trusted Watson and knew how brave he was.
Passage:
‘Well, it is not the first we have shared, Holmes. I hope it may not be the last. What is the particular danger this time?’
‘We are up against a very hard case. I have identified Mr John Garrideb, Counsellor at Law. He is none other than ‘Killer’ Evans, of sinister and murderous reputation.’
‘I fear I am none the wiser.’
Word Meanings:
of sinister and murderous reputation (phrase): suggesting someone is known for bad and dangerous actions, cruelty, or violence
none the wiser (phrase): not understand something, even though it has been explained
Explanation of the passage : Watson assured Holmes by saying that it was not the first danger they had shared, and he hoped it would not be the last. He then asked Holmes what the particular danger was this time.Holmes explained that they were dealing with a very serious case. He told Watson that the man posing as John Garrideb, Counsellor at Law, was in fact a criminal known as “Killer Evans,” who had a bad and murderous reputation. Still confused, Dr. Watson admitted that he was not any wiser after hearing this information.
Passage: ‘Ah, it is not part of your profession to carry about a portable Newgate Calendar in your memory. I have been down to see friend Lestrade at the Yard. There may be an occasional want of imaginative intuition down there, but they lead the world for thoroughness and method. I had an idea that we might get on the track of our American friend in their records. Sure enough, I found his chubby face smiling up at me from the Rogues’ Portrait Gallery. James Winter, alias Morecroft, alias Killer Evans, was the inscription below.’ Holmes drew an envelope from his pocket. ‘I scribbled down a few points from his dossier. Aged forty four. Native of Chicago. Known to have shot three men in the States. Escaped from penitentiary through political influence. Came to London in 1893. Shot a man over cards in a night club in the Waterloo Road in January, 1895. Man died, but he was shown to have been the aggressor in the row. Dead man was identified as Rodger Presbury, famous as forger and coiner in Chicago. Killer Evans released in 1901. Has been under police supervision since, but so far as known has led an honest life. Very dangerous man, usually carries arms and is prepared to use them. That is our bird, Watson—a sporting bird, as you must admit.’
Word Meanings:
want of imaginative intuition (n): The ability to imagine things that are not real
thoroughness (n): a large amount of care and attention to detail
inscription (n): words that are written or cut in something
dossier (n): a set of papers containing information about a person, often a criminal, or on any subject
penitentiary (n): a state or federal prison
forger (n): a person who makes an illegal copy of something in order to deceive
coiner (n): a person who coins money, in particular a maker of illegal coins
arms (n): weapons and equipment used to kill and injure people
sporting bird (n): a bird that is hunted for sport or food
Explanation of the passage : Holmes told Watson that it is not Watson’s job to remember all the criminals and their stories like a detective did. Holmes had visited his friend Lestrade at Scotland Yard (the police headquarters). Although the police there might not be very imaginative, they were very thorough and organized. Holmes thought they might find some information about their American suspect in the police records. Holmes found a photo of the man in the police’s collection of criminal portraits. The man had several names: James Winter, Morecroft, and Killer Evans. Holmes took out some notes he had made from the man’s police file. According to the notes, the man is 44 years old and comes from Chicago. He is known to have shot three men in America. He escaped from prison because of political connections. He came to London in 1893. In January 1895, he shot a man during a card game at a nightclub on Waterloo Road. The man who died was actually the one who started the fight. That dead man was named Rodger Presbury, who was a well-known criminal in Chicago for making fake money and documents.
Killer Evans was released from prison in 1901 and has been watched by the police since then, but as far as anyone knows, he has been living honestly. However, Holmes warned that Evans is a very dangerous man who usually carries weapons and is ready to use them.
Holmes called Evans “our bird,” meaning he’s the man they are tracking, and said Watson should admit he is a dangerous criminal.
Passage: But what is his game?’
‘Well, it begins to define itself. I have been to the house-agents. Our client, as he told us, has been there five years. It was unlet for a year before then. The previous tenant was a gentleman at large named Waldron. Waldron’s appearance was well remembered at the office. He had suddenly vanished and nothing more been heard of him. He was a tall, bearded man with very dark features. Now, Presbury, the man whom Killer Evans had shot, was, according to Scotland Yard, a tall, dark man with a beard. As a working hypothesis, I think we may take it that Presbury, the American criminal, used to live in the very room which our innocent friend now devotes to his museum. So at last we get a link, you see.’
Word Meanings:
tenant (n): a person who pays rent for the use of land or a building
hypothesis (n): an idea or explanation for something that is based on known facts but has not yet been proved
devotes (v): to give all of something, especially your time, effort, to something you believe in
Explanation of the passage : Holmes asked what the criminal’s plan or “game” might be. He said it was starting to become clearer. Holmes had checked with the house agents (the people who rent out the property). Their client, Mr. Garrideb, had been living in his rooms for five years. Before that, the rooms were empty for a year. Before the rooms were empty, the previous tenant was a man named Waldron, who was well known to the house agents. Waldron suddenly disappeared, and nobody heard from him again. He was described as a tall man with a beard and very dark features. Holmes noted that Rodger Presbury, the man whom Killer Evans had shot, was also described as a tall, dark man with a beard. Holmes said that maybe Presbury and Waldron were the same person. If that was true, then the American criminal Presbury used to live in the same rooms that Mr. Garrideb now uses for his collection. So, Holmes said, this might be the important connection in the case.
Passage: ‘And the next link?’
‘Well, we must go now and look for that.’
He took a revolver from the drawer and handed it to me.
‘I have my old favourite with me. If our Wild West friend tries to live up to his nickname, we must be ready for him. I’ll give you an hour for a siesta, Watson, and then I think it will be time for our Ryder Street adventure.’
Word Meanings:
revolver (n): a type of small gun held in one hand that can be fired several times without putting more bullets in it
siesta (n): an afternoon nap
Explanation of the passage : Holmes asked what the next clue or “link” in the case might be. He said they needed to go and find out. Then, Holmes took a gun from a drawer and gave it to Dr. Watson. He said that since their American criminal friend, called “Wild West” because of his violent past, might cause trouble, they had to be prepared. Holmes told Watson to take a nap, and after that, they would go on their “Ryder Street adventure,” meaning they planned to investigate something important there.
Passage: It was just four o’clock when we reached the curious apartment of Nathan Garrideb. Mrs Saunders, the caretaker, was about to leave but she had no hesitation in admitting us, for the door shut with a spring lock and Holmes promised to see that all was safe before we left. Shortly afterwards the outer door closed, her bonnet passed the bow window and we knew that we were alone in the lower floor of the house. Holmes made a rapid examination of the premises. There was one cupboard in a dark corner which stood out a little from the wall. It was behind this that we eventually crouched, while Holmes in a whisper outlined his intentions.
Word Meanings:
spring lock (n): a type of lock with a spring bolt which requires a key only to open it
bonnet (n): the metal cover over the part of a car where the engine is
premises (n): a house or other building and the land on which it is built
crouched (v): to bend your knees and lower yourself so that you are close to the ground and leaning forward slightly
Explanation of the passage : They arrived at Nathan Garrideb’s apartment at four o’clock. Mrs. Saunders, the caretaker, was just about to leave, but she let them in. The door was closed with a spring lock, and Holmes assured her he would make sure everything was safe before they left. Soon after, the outer door closed behind Mrs. Saunders, and they saw her car pass by the window, realizing they were now alone on the lower floor of the house. Holmes quickly inspected the place and noticed a cupboard in a dark corner that slightly stood out from the wall. Holmes and Watson then hid behind this cupboard while Holmes quietly explained what they planned to do next.
Passage: ‘He wanted to get our amiable friend out of his room— that is very clear and, as the collector never went out, it took some planning to do it. The whole of this Garrideb invention was apparently for no other end. I must say, Watson, that there is a certain devilish ingenuity about it, even if the queer name of the tenant did give him an opening which he could hardly have expected. He wove his plot with remarkable cunning.’
Word Meanings:
devilish ingenuity (adj.): wicked skill of thinking, performing, or using things in new ways, to solve problems
cunning (adj.): the quality or skill of being clever at planning something so you get what you want, especially by tricking other people
Explanation of the passage : Holmes said the plan was to trick their friendly client, Nathan Garrideb, into leaving his room because Garrideb almost never went outside. Since Garrideb stayed inside a lot, it took a smart plan to get him out. The whole story about “Garrideb” was made just for this reason. Holmes told Watson the plan was very clever and tricky. Even the unusual name “Garrideb” helped the person who made the plan, and they probably did not expect that. Holmes thought the plan was put together very smartly.
Passage:
‘But what did he want?’
‘Well, that is what we are here to find out. It has nothing whatever to do with our client, so far as I can read the situation. It is something connected with the man he murdered—the man who may have been his confederate in crime. There is some guilty secret in the room. That is how I read it. At first I thought our friend might have something in his collection more valuable than he knew—something worth the attention of a big criminal. But the fact that Rodger Presbury of evil memory inhabited these rooms points to some deeper reason. Well, Watson, we can but possess our souls in patience and see what the hour may bring.’
Word Meanings:
confederate in crime (n): a person who participates in a criminal or illegal activity alongside someone else.
inhabited (v): to live in a place
Explanation of the passage : Holmes said that the real reason behind the plan was still unknown and that they were there to find out. He believed it had nothing to do with their client, Nathan Garrideb, but was connected to the man who was killed, Rodger Presbury, who might have worked with the criminal before. Holmes thought there was a hidden secret in the room. At first, Holmes guessed that maybe Garrideb had something valuable in his collection that attracted the criminal’s attention. But since Presbury, a bad man with a dark past, used to live there, Holmes felt the reason was more serious and hidden. He told Watson they just had to wait patiently and see what would happen next.
Passage: That hour was not long in striking. We crouched closer in the shadow as we heard the outer door open and shut. Then came the sharp, metallic snap of a key and the American was in the room. He closed the door softly behind him, took a sharp glance around him to see that all was safe, threw off his overcoat and walked up to the central table with the brisk manner of one who knows exactly what he has to do and how to do it. He pushed the table to one side, tore up the square of carpet on which it rested, rolled it completely back and then, drawing a jimmy from his inside pocket, he knelt down and worked vigorously upon the floor. Presently we heard the sound of sliding boards and, an instant later, a square had opened in the planks. Killer Evans struck a match, lit a stump of candle, and vanished from our view.
Word Meanings:
jimmy (n): a short, strong metal bar with a curved end, often used to force things open, for example by thieves to force open windows or doors
vigorously (adv): in a way that is very forceful or energetic
stump of candle (n): a short remaining part of a candle
Explanation of the passage : That hour came quickly. Holmes and Watson hid quietly in the shadows when they heard the outer door open and close. Then they heard the sharp sound of a key unlocking the door, and the American man, Killer Evans, entered the room. He quietly closed the door behind him, looked around to make sure no one was there, and confidently went to the table in the middle of the room. He pushed the table aside, tore up the carpet, rolled it back, and took out a small tool from his pocket. He knelt down and started working hard on the floor. Soon, they heard the wooden floorboards sliding, and an opening appeared. Killer Evans lit a candle and disappeared into the hidden space below the floor.
Passage:
Clearly our moment had come. Holmes touched my wrist as a signal and together we stole across to the open trapdoor. Gently as we moved, however, the old floor must have creaked under our feet, for the head of our American, peering anxiously round, emerged suddenly from the open space. His face turned upon us with a glare of baffled rage, which gradually softened into a rather shamefaced grin as he realised that two pistols were pointed at his head.
Word Meanings:
trapdoor (n): a small door in a ceiling or floor
creaked (v): When a door, floorboard, etc. creaks, it makes a long low sound when it moves or is moved
baffled (v): to cause someone to be completely unable to understand or explain something
shamefaced grin (adj.): a smile showing showing shame or embarrassment
pistols (n): a small gun that is held in and fired from one hand
Explanation of the passage : Holmes quietly told Watson it was time. They both walked slowly to the open door. The old floor made a noise, so the American man, Killer Evans, looked up from the hole. He was angry and confused at first, but then he saw Holmes and Watson pointing guns at him. He stopped being angry and smiled a little, feeling embarrassed because he knew he was caught.
Passage: ‘Well, well!’ said he, coolly as he scrambled to the surface. ‘I guess you have been one too many for me, Mr Holmes. Saw through my game, I suppose and played me for a sucker from the first. Well, sir, I hand it to you; you have me beat and—’
In an instant he had whisked out a revolver from his breast pocket and had fired two shots. I felt a sudden hot sear as if a red-hot iron had been pressed to my thigh. There was a crash as Holmes’s pistol came down on the man’s head. I had a vision of him sprawling upon the floor with blood running down his face while Holmes rummaged him for weapons. Then my friend’s wiry arms were round me and he was leading me to a chair.
Word Meanings:
scrambled (v): to move or climb quickly but with difficulty, often using your hands to help you
sprawling (adj.): spreading out over a large area
rummaged (v): to search for something that is difficult to find among other things
Explanation of the passage : Killer Evans, climbed out of the trapdoor and said he knew Holmes had figured out his plan. He admitted Holmes had outsmarted him. But suddenly, he took out a gun and fired two shots. One of the bullets hit Watson’s thigh, causing a sharp pain. Holmes reacted fast and hit the man on the head with his pistol, knocking him down. Holmes then searched the man for more weapons. After that, Holmes helped Watson sit down and took care of him.
Passage:
‘You’re not hurt, Watson? For God’s sake, say that you are not hurt!’
It was worth a wound—it was worth many wounds—to know the depth of loyalty and love which lay behind that cold mask. The clear, hard eyes were dimmed for a moment and the firm lips were shaking. For the one and only time I caught a glimpse of a great heart as well as of a great brain. All my years of humble but single-minded service culminated in that moment of revelation.
Word Meanings:
culminated (v): to have as a result or be the final result of a process
revelation (n): the act of making something known that was secret, or a fact that is made known
Explanation of the passage : Holmes asked Watson if he was hurt, showing real worry and care. Even though Holmes usually seemed calm and serious, in that moment his eyes looked soft. Watson saw, for the first time, not just Holmes’s smart mind but also his big, kind heart. Watson felt proud to serve such a loyal and caring friend.
Passage: ‘It’s nothing, Holmes. It’s a mere scratch.’
He had ripped up my trousers with his pocket-knife.
‘You are right,’ he cried, with an immense sigh of relief. ‘It is quite superficial.’ His face set like flint as he glared at our prisoner who was sitting up with a dazed face. ‘By the Lord, it is as well for you. If you had killed Watson, you would not have got out of this room alive. Now, sir, what have you to say for yourself?’
Word Meanings:
superficial (adj.): on the surface only; not deep
Explanation of the passage : Watson told Holmes that his injury was very small, just a little scratch. Holmes carefully cut Watson’s torn trousers to check the wound. Feeling relieved, Holmes said the injury was only on the surface and not serious. Then Holmes looked hard at the prisoner, who was sitting up but looked confused. Holmes warned him that if he had seriously hurt Watson, he would not have left the room alive. Then Holmes asked the prisoner what he had to say to explain himself.
Passage: He had nothing to say for himself. He only lay and scowled. I leaned on Holmes’s arm and together we looked down into the small cellar which had been disclosed by the secret flap. It was still illuminated by the candle which Evans had taken down with him. Our eyes fell upon a mass of rusted machinery, great rolls of paper, a litter of bottles and, neatly arranged upon a small table, a number of neat little bundles.
‘A printing press—a counterfeiter’s outfit,’ said Holmes.
Word Meanings:
scowled (v): to look at someone or something with a very annoyed expression
cellar (n): a room under the ground floor of a building, usually used for storing things
illuminated (adj.): lit with bright lights
rusted (n): a reddish-brown substance that forms on the surface of iron and steel as a result of reacting with air and water
printing press (n): a machine that prints books, newspapers, or magazines
counterfeiter (n): a person who makes a copy that looks like the original of something, usually for dishonest or illegal purposes
Explanation of the passage : The prisoner did not say anything to defend himself. He just lay there looking angry. Watson held onto Holmes’s arm, and together they looked down into the small cellar revealed by the hidden trapdoor. The cellar was still lit by the candle that Evans had taken with him. They saw old rusty machines, big rolls of paper, many bottles scattered around, and several small, neatly wrapped bundles on a table. Holmes said it was a printing press used for making fake money, Killer Evan’s setup.
Passage: ‘Yes, sir,’ said our prisoner, staggering slowly to his feet and then sinking into the chair. ‘The greatest counterfeiter London ever saw. That’s Presbury’s machine and those bundles on the table are two thousand of Presbury’s notes worth a hundred each and fit to pass anywhere. Help yourselves, gentlemen. Call it a deal and let me beat it.’
Word Meanings:
staggering (v): walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall
Explanation of the passage : The prisoner slowly stood up but then sat back down in a chair. He admitted to being the best counterfeiter London has ever seen. He said that the printing machine belonged to Presbury and that the bundles on the table were two thousand fake banknotes worth a hundred pounds each, and could be accepted anywhere. Then he told Holmes and Watson to take what they wanted and make a deal so he could leave quickly.
Passage: Holmes laughed.
‘We don’t do things like that, Mr Evans. There is no bolt-hole for you in this country. You shot this man, Presbury, did you not?’
Word Meanings:
bolt-hole (n): a place where a person can escape and hide
Explanation of the passage : Holmes laughed and said that they do not make such deals. He told Evans that there was no safe place for him to run to in the country. Holmes asked Mr. Evans if he had shot the man named Presbury.
Passage:
‘Yes, sir, and got five years for it, though it was he who pulled on me. Five years—when I should have had a medal the size of a soup plate. No living man could tell a Presbury from a Bank of England, and if I hadn’t put him out he would have flooded London with them. I was the only one in the world who knew where he made them. Can you wonder that I wanted to get to the place? And can you wonder that when I found this crazy boob of a bughunter with the queer name squatting right on the top of it, and never quitting his room, I had to do the best I could to shift him? Maybe I would have been wiser if I had put him away. It would have been easy enough, but I’m a soft-hearted guy that can’t begin shooting unless the other man has a gun also. But say, Mr Holmes, what have I done wrong, anyhow? I’ve not used this plant. I’ve not hurt this old stiff. Where do you get me?’
Word Meanings:
boob of a bughunter (phrase): here, used as an insult meaning a foolish or silly detective or investigator
Explanation of the passage : Evans admitted that he had shot Presbury and got five years in prison for it, even though Presbury was the one who attacked him. He said he should have been rewarded instead of punished. He explained that no one could tell Presbury’s fake money from real Bank of England notes, and if he had not stopped Presbury, London would have been flooded with the fake bills. Mr. Evans claimed he was the only person who knew where Presbury made the fake money, which is why he wanted to get to that place. He said he was surprised to find their innocent friend living right on top of that place and never leaving his room, so he tried to get him to leave. He admitted he might have been wiser to get rid of him completely but said he was soft-hearted and would only shoot if the other man had a gun too. Finally, he asked Mr. Holmes what crime he had actually committed, saying he had not used the printing press or hurt the old man.
Passage: ‘Only attempted murder, so far as I can see,’ said Holmes. ‘But that’s not our job. They take that at the next stage. What we wanted at present was just your sweet self. Please give the Yard a call, Watson. It won’t be entirely unexpected.’
Word Meanings:
unexpected (adj.): not expected
Explanation of the passage : Holmes replied that what the prisoner did was only attempted murder for now, and that is something the police will handle later. Their current job was just to catch him. Holmes then asked Watson to call the police station, telling him the arrest would not surprise them.
Passage: So those were the facts about Killer Evans and his remarkable invention of the three Garridebs. We heard later that our poor old friend never got over the shock of his dissipated dreams. When his castle in the air fell down, it buried him beneath the ruins. He was last heard of at a nursing home in Brixton. It was a glad day at the Yard when the Presbury outfit was discovered for, though they knew that it existed, they had never been able, after the death of the man, to find out where it was. Evans had indeed done great service and caused several worthy CID men to sleep the sounder, for the counterfeiter stands in a class by himself as a public danger. They would willingly have subscribed to that soup-plate medal of which the criminal had spoken, but an unappreciative Bench took a less favourite view and the Killer returned to those shades from which he had just emerged.
Word Meanings:
dissipated dreams (n): dreams that have faded or disappeared
castle in the air (idiom): plans that have very little chance of happening
unappreciative (adj.): not grateful for something
Explanation of the passage : The lesson ends with these being the facts about Killer Evans and his clever trick with the three Garridebs. Later, Watson and Holmes heard that Garrideb was upset and never got over his broken hopes. The last they heard, he was living in a nursing home in Brixton. The police were very happy when they found Presbury’s equipment used for producing fake money because they knew it existed but could not find it after Presbury died. Evans actually helped the police a lot and made life safer for honest officers, since counterfeiters are very dangerous. The police thought Evans deserved a big medal for his help, but the court did not agree, so Evans ended up back in prison.
Conclusion
This post provides the students with a comprehensive understanding of the Short Stories Chapter 4 – The Adventure of the Three Garridebs By Arthur Conan Doyle from the CBSE Class 11 English Woven Words Book. It provides the students with the introduction, theme, summary, lesson explanation with word meanings, ensuring that the students comprehend the chapter effectively.