Watson tried not to glower as Holmes looked seriously at the ragged urchin in front of him. "Now, Oliver, do you understand how important it is that you are not identified? If Fagin realises that you are one of Wiggins's lot..."
"Don' worry, guv'nor," Wiggins piped up. "Ollie's run with us long enough ter know wot's wot."
Oliver grinned at the praise. "I'll be careful, sir... guv'nor," he corrected hastily.
Holmes nodded. "You remember what to do if Mr. Sikes returns?"
"Get caught stealing, ask for Inspector Lestrade."
"Good lad. Now, Wiggins..."
Watson saw the pair on their way, then returned to the sitting room in great indignation. "Really, Holmes! It's one thing to use the boys as spies, but sending Oliver into that den of thieves... The lad is almost as green as when Wiggins found him!"
"And there lies his advantage. He's not been an Irregular long enough for the Dodger to know his face." Holmes sighed. "Watson, if I had any other recourse, I would take it, believe me."
"No doubt," Watson replied grimly. "I only hope you can reconcile that line of reasoning with your conscience later."
Holmes sniffed, refraining from pointing out what should have been obvious to his friend: he would be equally unable to forgive himself were misfortune to befall any of his boys...