Holmes was chagrinned, Hopkins accusatory, and Watson vicariously embarrassed. The oppressive silence was interrupted by Holmes clearing his throat.
"It is an erroneous assumption to think that any man is infallible," he said. "Fortunately, one may learn from one's mistakes. I must thank you, Hopkins, for bringing this case to my attention. There are unique features to this that I would not have missed for anything."
Hopkins rolled his eyes and went back to watching the giant moth-man winging his way on leathery wings into the sunset. "So much for never having seen a crime committed by a flying creature."