Ok, I couldn't resist this one, not after Pompey paved the way with her dog chapter...
I was sitting cross-legged on my bed, absently fingering the model ship that sat on the table beside me and shooting glares at the sitting room door.
I had been chased from my sanctuary by an outraged landlady, who was intent upon replacing the drapes. She had not been appreciative when I told her that I was likely to ruin them within a week anyhow and she was better off cooking our supper.
Women.
Bah.
Suddenly I was jolted by a shriek piercing the air. I jumped for the door.
I heard a crash upstairs and then Watson's pounding footsteps. We reached the sitting room at the same instant and stood there, staring at our landlady.
Mrs. Hudson was standing upon my armchair, gazing at Watson's desk with something akin to terror.
"Mrs. Hudson, what the devil!"
"Oh, Doctor – there's –"
"It's just a mouse, Mrs. Hudson!" I said in annoyance, looking at the little creature sitting atop Watson's books.
"I do have a name, Mr. Holmes!"
I felt my jaw drop, as the squeaky voice could only have come from one source. Watson muttered something about needing a drink, and I turned to look at the rodent.
"And – what might that be?"
Why was I talking to a mouse?
The creature sat up and sniffed at me before answering.
"Basil."