The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Chapter 3: The Problem
Key Characters
- Sherlock Holmes: The detective, deeply interested in the case.
- Dr. Watson: Holmes' companion, takes notes and observes.
- Dr. Mortimer: Brings the case to Holmes, deeply disturbed by the events.
- Sir Charles Baskerville: The deceased, found dead under mysterious circumstances.
- Sir Henry Baskerville: The heir to Baskerville Hall, arriving soon.
Key Locations
- Yew Alley: The path where Sir Charles was found dead.
- Baskerville Hall: The family estate on Dartmoor.
- The Moor: The desolate area surrounding Baskerville Hall.
Important Details
- The Legend: A demonic hound is said to haunt the Baskerville family.
- The Marks: Large paw prints found 20 yards from Sir Charles' body.
- Weather Conditions: Damp and raw, but not raining on the night of Sir Charles' death.
- Path and Grass: Marks only on the path, not the grass.
- Wicket Gate: Closed and padlocked, but could be climbed over.
Key Observations
- Holmes' Interest: Holmes is keenly interested, noting the importance of the marks and the legend.
- Dr. Mortimer's Hesitation: Mortimer did not call Holmes immediately due to fear of public scrutiny and supernatural implications.
- Footprints: Evidence suggests Sir Charles stood at the gate for 5-10 minutes (cigar ash).
- Local Testimonies: Several people reported seeing a large, spectral creature on the moor.
Holmes' Analysis
- Supernatural vs. Rational: Holmes is skeptical of the supernatural explanation but acknowledges the strange evidence.
- Strategic Consultation: Holmes advises Dr. Mortimer to meet Sir Henry without revealing suspicions until Holmes has more information.
- Geographical Analysis: Holmes studies a map of Dartmoor to understand the layout and proximity of key locations.
Upcoming Steps
- Meet Sir Henry: Dr. Mortimer is to meet Sir Henry at Waterloo Station and bring him to Holmes the next day.
- Holmes' Investigation: Holmes plans to continue investigating, gathering more information and forming theories.
Key Questions
- Was a crime committed?: Holmes needs to determine if Sir Charles' death was due to foul play.
- Nature of the Threat: Whether the threat is supernatural or human.
Conclusion
Holmes and Watson prepare to meet Dr. Mortimer and Sir Henry to gather more details and decide the next steps in the investigation.