Friday, 19th. Oct., continued

One of Sherlock Holmes's defects - if, indeed, one may call it a
defect - is that he is exceedingly loath to communicate his full
plans to any other person until the instant of their fulfilment. His
masterful nature loves to dominate & surprise those who are around him,
but also his professional caution urges him never to take chances. The
result was never so trying as during our long drive in the darkness.
The great ordeal was before us, yet Holmes said nothing, and I could
only surmise what his course of action could be. We talked of trivial
matters, when our nerves were tense with emotion & anticipation.
When we passed Frankland's house, and drew near the Hall, we sent the
wagonette back to Coombe Tracey, and walked to Merripit House. All
