Dear Sherlock,
No, you have not offended me, but forgive me if I mistrustful of what you say. In Hertfordshire it was easy to ignore your reputation, but in London it is impossible. It is difficult to judge your sincerity when I have seen you fake it so well.
I am only human, Sherlock. I am not a paragon of virtue. I am just a simple man who is often confused by the manners and mores of the society into which I have been thrust. The ways of you and your set are alien to me. I have been warned that while I might hope, as you claim to desire, to be a good influence on you, you cannot help but be a bad influence on me. I am not made of stone and I dare not set myself up as an ideal for you to follow.
I beg you, if you truly care for me and consider me your friend, if you wish to change your life, remove yourself from London, from the flatters and decadent hangers-on. Find a focus for your brilliance. I sincerely believe that you can be a better man.
Your friend,
John
Wednesday, 25 April, 17**