A/n: I read somewhere--forget where--that if a Victorian Doctor was paid a large sum, it might be wrapped in paper and left on a side table for him to take, so as not to make payment awkward. That struck me as a bit funny, I guess.
"Why Watson, you didn't tell me it was a special occasion! I would have picked up something from the bakery."
"Stow it, Holmes, you know I think this practice just as silly as you do." I dropped the paper-wrapped package on my desk. "Honestly, sometimes I wish people would get over their..."
"Aversion to discussing monetary affairs?"
"Yes, and nicely put."
"Thank you. Speaking for myself, I try not to overinflate the matter in my own business; matter-of-fact is the best approach."
"I think your clients appreciate it. And I did catch that pun." I sighed and put my hands to my waist, studying the package. "I should be grateful for pay, I know, but it's so ridiculous--as if society will crumble the day money overtly changes hands! Why can't people just accept that price tags exist, and that there's no shame in speaking openly of fees. "
"Well, I'd like that too. 'Twould simplify matters a great deal, if people saved dancing for balls and quit going into nervous caprices at the first sign of a ha'penny." Holmes shrugged philosophically. "We can't always have things our way, fortunately. Watson--I do have a bit of news to cheer you, though."
"Oh?"
"I happen to know Mrs. Hudson is planning on spending a good deal of time this afternoon baking."