Dear Michael,
Thank you for the warnings regarding Mr. Holmes (he was offered a knighthood but turned it down—I wish I'd know that was possible), but since my last letter he has been very candid with me regarding his past vices. I believe that many of his sins arise from his abhorrence of boredom and need for stimulus (a problem I share). His mind is remarkable, moving so quickly his conversation is often hard to follow and on such a range of topics. This is the ideal of the modern man! You must allow that he does many good things as well, that case with the King being just one example (and I have been longing to ask him about it). Perhaps many of the stories that circle about him are made by rivals, both in the bedroom and out. I can see how some would be very taken with him, but I cannot believe that he has any dark intentions here. Lord D_ is in opposition in the House of Lords and is a lackadaisical member at that (I fear that Lord D_ is rather a simple man), and he can't have any machinations towards anyone in the household. Perhaps he has some lover in the district, but you cannot fault an unattached man for that.
He has told me that he came to the countryside for his health, a worrying shortness of breath while in London, and I can well believe him. The metropolis seems to have become even more filthy while I was abroad. Though he demurred, I insisted on examining him. When I pressed my ear to his chest I heard no abnormalities in heart or lung, but I have told him that he should smoke less. I enjoy a good pipe after dinner, but he seems to puff away constantly, punctuating the air with the stem as he speaks in his passion. He could also stand to eat more as he is devilish thin, his ribs stand out in sharp relief when his chest is bare.
No, if he has been guilty in the past I believe he is seeking a more peaceful path now, even if it is only temporary. He really is a most fascinating man and I am enjoying his company immensely.
Please give my regards to your lovely wife. When I return to London, I will certainly take you up on your invitation.
I remain your servant,
John Watson
13th April (and a suitably miserable day—cold and rainy here), 17**