‘None of this matters. Who would have suspected anyone would summon Sherlock Holmes, all the way from London? My father must be desperate! His reputation above all.’ She smiled to herself, pleased at the thought of giving her father discomfort.

Holmes stood up. ‘Miss Wyndham, I will not give away your hiding place. But I will convey the news to your family that you are safe and well and will return to them when ready. I will also suggest to them that they open up a conversation by writing to you care of my address in London, where you can mail your responses.’ He took out a calling card and jotted down our address on the back with a small silver pencil. He handed it to her.

‘I shall leave it to you to sort out your grievances and your options in this case. If you find that this game – no, don’t take offence, it clearly is a game – becomes cumbersome, I suggest you fashion a more open approach to declaring your well-deserved independence.’

‘I don’t—’

‘If you do not achieve your desired results, but instead anger someone to the point where you feel endangered, you may feel free to call on me.’

She stared at him in surprise.

‘I can be here in a matter of hours. It is my belief that you do not fully understand the effect you are having on those who have feelings for you. Also, I think you have more options than you currently see.’

‘Oh, you men! You think you understand!’ And yet I could read in her face that she had been affected by his words.

‘In the meantime, please be careful, young lady. Not every man you toy with and mistreat will feel or act as I do. Keep your windows and door locked.’

Holmes picked up his hat and was out of the door before I could rise to my feet.

‘Good day, Miss Wyndham,’ I said, struggling with the uncharitable thought that I did not really wish her one. ‘Be assured, Mr Holmes is a man of his word.’

She looked up at me from her sofa. I thought I saw tears glistening in her eyes. Then I, too, made my escape.

PART FOUR

STRANGE MAGIC

‘Bid Suspicion double lock the door.’

—William Shakespeare

Venus and Adonis

CHAPTER 17

Smell the Roses

We left the young lady and were once again traipsing through the hot and dusty streets of Cambridge. ‘Home, then, Holmes? The next train to King’s Cross is in thirty minutes.’ I said, having glanced at my Bradshaw.

‘Not yet, Watson. Until I know who put that doll in the lock, I will not feel comfortable leaving that rather irritating young lady on her own. That doll’s missing arm – my mind is not at ease.’

‘You think she is inciting danger, Holmes, by running off alone and unchaperoned?’