Holmes was silent for a moment.

‘I see. And I may understand this better than most. Like you, Miss Wyndham, I too have a secret location where I go to get away when life is oppressive.’

I had long suspected that Holmes had a bolt-hole, or even more than one in London, although I always presumed these had to do with the danger of his profession, not a need for privacy.

‘Even Watson here needs to get away from time to time.’ Holmes continued.

‘Holmes, I—’

‘Bath. Just recently. So yes, Miss Wyndham, we do understand.’

She stared at us, trying to make up her mind to accept this or not. ‘You men have far more freedom.’

‘I will admit that this is so. Miss Wyndham, why do you think your maid shared your location with me?’ Holmes asked.

‘I have been wondering that,’ said the girl, ‘and I shall take Polly to task for it.’

‘She did so because she knew I could help you. I believe you are in danger.’

‘Well, I don’t, Mr Holmes. That doll, it’s just a bid for attention. Stop trying to scare me! It will not work. I do not wish to be helped. I only wish to live my life as I please, and I am prepared to do whatever it takes for freedom. And if that includes smearing your reputation – both of you – I will not hesitate!’

‘You are playing a dangerous game, Miss Wyndham. I am not a vengeful or easily insulted person. You may fear no harm or repercussions from me. If I am not successful with my mission here, I shall simply go back to London and leave you all to sort out your difficulties. But not every man is so fitted.’

‘What do you mean, a dangerous game?’

‘You are fomenting drama with your disappearances. Perhaps you wrote a message on your doll, tore off its arm, and then threw it into the Jesus Lock. A “bid for attention”, as you just said.’

‘What a stupid notion. You are a stupid man.’

Holmes said nothing.

‘I did no such thing,’ said she. ‘I suppose someone wanted everyone to worry about me. That would not be me, Mr Holmes. I would prefer that everyone forget about me and leave me to pursue my own happiness.’

‘Do you often find yourself in the vicinity of the Jesus Lock?’

‘Well, of course. Our house is nearby. I need to get out for air. Anyone would.’

‘And the footbridge there, do you cross it on a regular basis? Meet up with anyone there repeatedly?’

‘Yes. And, no. This is not your business.’ She looked away, and I noted, finally, a touch of unease.

‘The mutilated doll found in the lock is quite possibly the work of someone who does not wish you well, Miss Wyndham.’

‘Or some kind of joke, Mr Holmes,’ said she. ‘Yes, a joke. That is what I think.’