Jeremy and I had sat silently through their exchange. This was mind boggling! What were we to do now?
"Us." Jeremy said. "We're your practical problem."
"Yes, unfortunately, you cannot be present while the doctor and I consult with our client."
"Understandable," I said. "But what are we supposed to do?"
"They could wait in my room," Watson suggested.
"I think they can use the time more profitably," Holmes replied. "Since we are speaking of practical problems, these gentlemen came with nothing. We have no idea how long they may be here." He moved to the desk and pulled out a wallet. "Here is enough to purchase the necessary items," he said as he began removing the money.
"Oh, no," Jeremy protested. "You don't need to do that. We'll be fine." I nodded to show my agreement.
"Nonsense," Holmes scoffed. "I'm willing to lose a few pounds if it means a mystery as intriguing as the two of you. You must promise to return, though."
We readily agreed and reluctantly accepted the money. He gave us brief directions to a nearby shop and started herding us toward the door with a glance at the clock.
"Cubitt, did you say?" Watson spoke up. He was standing at a bookshelf near the window holding a large book.
"Oh, no, Watson, I've already looked him up. And judging from his background, I imagine he's as respectable as he is worthy."
Watson nodded and set the book back on the shelf. He glanced out the window and smiled. "With a fresh face, an open countenance, and wearing a brown bowler hat," he said as he scooped up a journal from the desk and swaggered toward the door.
Jeremy and I were forgotten for the moment as Holmes stared dumbfounded at his friend.
"Oh, come now, you cannot possibly know that!" Holmes exclaimed.
"Really, Holmes?" Watson asked playfully as he opened the sitting room door. "Follow me gentlemen," he said to us, "I'll show you out."
As we moved toward the door, we heard the knocks signaling the arrival of their client. Watson cocked his head and sauntered out of the room followed by Holmes's laugh as he realized that Watson had seen the man from the window.
"Watson, you will stay and keep a record of the case?" Holmes called after us as we headed down the stairs.
"My dear fellow," Watson said as he held up the journal and waved it at his friend.
"Ah, very good. And I will see you gentlemen this afternoon," he added.
We were bustled out the door by the doctor as he greeted Mr. Cubitt and welcomed him in. He took one last look at us and his eyes were hard.
"You had better not betray Holmes's trust. I expect to see you this afternoon." His voice was as hard as his eyes, and I was amazed at how quickly he could go from easy going gentlemen to a man you didn't want to cross.
Jeremy and I exchanged a glance. I looked back and the doctor and nodded. "We'll be back."
He just nodded and went to rejoin Holmes and their new client.
Jeremy and I stared at each other for a moment. I'm sure I looked just as lost to him as he did to me.
A/N: Thanks so much for all the reviews! They totally make my day. :) Now, fair warning: Be prepared for rather large liberties to be taken with the canon story of the Dancing Men. Hope you'll all stick with me. :) It does all work out in the end...hopefully...