It was typical of Watson to be out when it was raining. Thought Sherlock Holmes as he casually read through that mornings edition of The Times. He had always the wretched luck of being caught outside in poor weather. Sherlock considered that he did not have these problems. He could observe from the movement of clouds what the weather would be like. He had even went as far as to lecture in Geography at the University of Cambridge – Yes, Sherlock had many talents that Watson did not have.
The door swept open just as Sherlock was lighting his pipe – he was going through a considerable amount of tobacco recently – something which he blamed on the exceptionally good rain falling in Greece. All of his tobacco being directly purchased from a farm in Greece that specialised in such a fine tobacco.
"Lovely weather." Stated Watson with a chuckle removing his coat and hat, which seemed to drop as much water as a decent-sized cloud, "I had no idea the weather was going to be this poor today Holmes."
"Why it is elementary my dear Watson, You should observe the clouds and their movements. You failed to take note of the weather Ireland experienced yesterday, heavy rain with no end. As the wind was so heavy, I could easily have told you that rain would be blessing our island today Watson." Holmes proceeded to place his pipe in his mouth and observe his colleague.
"Well Holmes. I was out and about, seeing what that con-artist had been up to."
"It is a simply con-man Watson" said Holmes with the pipe again in his hand. "I would tell you not to waste your time with such things."
"I think we may be called in to investigate the matter." said Watson in a manner which screamed more knowledge than he let on. "Have you not read the story about Her Majesty's carriage?" Watson gestured at the paper which sat folded in Sherlock's lap.
"I did read an article – That Her Majesty misplaced a golden time-piece she received from the German Kaiser. I assume it hasn't been misplaced?" said Holmes now curious. As proud an Englishman as one can imagine – was worrying over his Royal Family.
"Well Holmes, I went to Buckingham Palace this morning where I was met by a group of servants, all very well educated I belief. Sons of members of Parliament and such. However, I then spoke to a Butler who told me that on the 12th of this Month, A Prussian gentleman arrived to re-claim an article precious to the Kaiser. A Golden watch."
" I say, Watson – Was he really Prussian?"
"What difference does it make?"
"Well Watson – To track down a Prussian in London is no easy task. But to track down an Englishman who speaks one of the Germanic tongues is so much easier."
"I did not entertain such an idea when I spoke with the Prince of Wales."
"Why was I not invited to come along Watson?"
"Holmes please – The House of Lords members reported they gave away seven hundred pounds in reception to a German Prince, The House of Commons has sent its compliments to the same German. I have a list of all the expenses he incurred over two weeks." The list was produced from Watson's Jacket pocket and was only slightly damp. "Here." Was all Watson said as he handed the list over.
"Well Watson – I think if the British establishment is being attacked by a Con-man we must lend a hand to our Establishment."
Watson was still rather smug about the fact he had been to Parliament and the Home of the Royal Family. The difference was that Sherlock too had visited these places, but had actually met with her Britannic Majesty and had of course dined in the House of Commons. Let Watson have his moment Holmes.
The List read the work of an impressive con-man. Although Holmes was occasionally tempted to use the phrase 'Hustler' as the term done its rounds in the United States. It read an itemised list made up by a Sergeant Wilkins.
"Dear Mr Watson,
The following thefts have been attributed to 'Jorg Von Whileham'
The theft from Her Majesty the Queen: one Golden watch; one set of dinner china; one book of stamps (valued at 1L 11S and 6D); an address book of various members of parliament and lords and over sixty pounds of expenses claims and alcohol.
The theft from Lord Newry:Six hundred pounds and eight shillings of expenses; One Pair of Riding Boots, One Shotgun, One Clydesdale Horse, Seven bottles of champagne and two tuxedos.
The thefts of the Lords:Nine hundred pounds of expenses, A further two thousands pounds in direct payments to 'Jorg Whileham' and an extra seventy pounds payments to 'Von Whileham'
4) The Commons:Over a thousand pounds in direct transfers and a set of postage equipment.
I trust this will help with your investigation.
I have the honour to be &c.c
Wilkins"
"I can easily deduct that this man is a drinker." Laughed Holmes. His pipe was then lit once more and he resumed smoking. "Watson – first point of call, the foreign office."