Guided Sleep Meditation & Sleep Hypnosis from Sleep Cove - Sherlock Holmes and The Christmas Pudding Mystery

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Starting point is 00:00:46 please go to sleepcove.com slash support. That's sleepcove.com slash support. If you can't support the show right now, please subscribe with a bell to get alerts on all new free content. Thank you. Have you ever gazed in wonder at the Great Pyramid? Have you marvelled at the golden face of Tudankhamun? Or admired the delicate features of Queen Nefertiti?

Starting point is 00:01:21 If you have, you'll probably like The History of Egypt podcast. Every week, we explore tales of this ancient culture. The history of Egypt is available. wherever you get your podcasting fix. Come, let me introduce you to the world of ancient Egypt. To this cozy Sherlock Holmes' Christmas New Mystery. Each year, Sherlock delights in trying to uncover the secret ingredient in his baker's famous Christmas pudding.

Starting point is 00:02:05 But when this Christmas pudding arrives, With a hidden and unsettling note, the holiday cheer is disrupted. With Dr Watson at his side, Holmes follows a trail of clues through festive London to reveal the truth behind the threatening message. This version is available without music on my Mystery at Midnight podcast and Bedtime Stories. YouTube channel, I'll leave the links in the description. Please remember to subscribe with the bell. Begin, Sherlock Holmes and the Christmas pudding mystery. It was four days before Christmas Christmas and inside 221B Baker Street, I was sitting in my armchair with a newspaper on my lap.

Starting point is 00:03:12 I had a bemused smile on my face as I watched Holmes standing at the window and looking out. His posture was one of alertness, an observation, as though he were a century. on duty. Have you seen the delivery point yet? I asked, unable to keep the amusement from my voice. Holmes glanced over his shoulder briefly before returning his gaze to the street below. No, but he will be along soon. I am determined to solve the mystery this year. I laughed and said, said, can't you let this go-hose? Let Mrs. Abbott keep her secret ingredient to herself. My friend turned from the window, his sharp features softening slightly. I have tried, my dear Watson, but is not in my nature. And anyway, Mrs. Abbott likes me making a guess

Starting point is 00:04:27 every year, for this was certainly true, and she also likes letting you know that you're wrong. A short laugh came from Holmes, and he agreed with me. He said, This year will be different. This will be the year that I finally discover the secret ingredient that Mrs. Abbott puts in her Christmas puddings, that elusive something. has been in her family recipe for generations, making her puddings so irresistible. Mrs. Hudson told me she has to order our pudding one year in advance because they are so popular. I replied, as long as I find a lucky silver sixpence in my portion, I'm happy to let the secret ingredient, stay a secret. I returned to reading my newspaper. We settled in a comfortable

Starting point is 00:05:36 silence, the only sounds being the occasional rustle of my newspaper and the gentle crackle of the fire in the grate. A few minutes later, Holmes declared, here's the delivery boy now. A different land this year I see, but I recognise that Barrow he's pushing. It's Mrs. Abbott's for sure, and she uses the same patterned cloth over her puddings every year. I set down my newspaper and rose from my chair, curious despite myself. Homes remained in the window. following the boy's progress along the street. I joined homes at the window and peered down at the street below. Sure enough, a young lad was making his way towards our door,

Starting point is 00:06:43 pushing a barrow with some effort. He stopped outside our door and knocked on it. We heard the front door open below, followed by Mrs. Hudson's welcoming voice and the lighted tones of the delivery boy. There was a brief exchange and then the door closed. Holmes turned to face me. His eyes alight with the familiar spark of curiosity.

Starting point is 00:07:17 Would you care to join me in the kitchen as I finally solve this festive mystery? I smiled. I wouldn't miss it for the world, Holmes, though I suspect Mrs. Abbott will have the last laugh once again. We shall see, Watson, Holmes said with a determination we shall see. We made our way down, their narrow staircase to the ground floor. as we approached the kitchen I could hear

Starting point is 00:07:52 Mrs Hudson humming a cheerful Christmas carol Holmes knocked gently on the doorframe before entering ever mindful of our landlady's domain Mrs Hudson

Starting point is 00:08:08 looked up from where she was about to unwrap the Christmas pudding Ah Mr Holmes Dr Watson She said with a knowing smile. I wondered how long it would take before you both appeared.

Starting point is 00:08:25 Come to investigate our pudding delivery, have you? Holmes gave a slight bell. Indeed, Mrs. Hudson, and this year I am more determined than ever to uncover the mystery. Mrs. Hudson chuckled.

Starting point is 00:08:44 Well, Mr. Holmes, you're welcome to try. Though I must warn you, Mrs. Abbott guards her secret as fiercely as the crown jewels. Mrs. Hudson, Holmes began, taking a step closer to examining the pudding. Would you mind if I were to unwrap the pudding myself? Perhaps this year I might catch a different aroma as I do so. Our lady smiled and gestured toward the pudding. Be my guest, Mr. Holmes.

Starting point is 00:09:23 I'll not stand in the way of your investigation. Holmes surveyed the wrapped pudding. He said, There is something different about the string that secures the covering. The knot is different. It isn't the usual neat fastenings. that I've witnessed on previous puddings. It seems almost as if it were tied in a rush.

Starting point is 00:09:52 Hmm, interesting. I ventured. Perhaps Mrs. Abbott has a new assistant who is still learning how to secure the coverings. Perhaps, Holmes replied. He carefully and tied the knot and removed the string. then as though conducting one of his scientific experiments, he slowly pulled back the covering.

Starting point is 00:10:23 As the pudding was revealed, he closed his eyes, leaned in closer and inhaled the delicious aroma that rose from the item. Ah yes, he murmured more to himself than to us. I detect the usual cinnamon and nutmeg, but there is something else, something I cannot quite make out. Not yet. Mrs Hudson and I exchanged an amused glance as we watched him.

Starting point is 00:10:59 He opened his eyes and looked as though he was about to make a guess at the secret ingredient. But instead he pointed an accusing thing. finger at the pudding. Watson, Mrs. Hudson, there is something unusual here. Look at the surface of it just there. He drew our attention to a slightly raised area, which looked as though it had been disturbed recently.

Starting point is 00:11:32 I noticed something else too. Good heavens, I declared, is that a piece of paper protruding from the surface has Mrs Abbott taken to putting messages in her puddings now Holmes carefully

Starting point is 00:11:52 pull the paper free and unfolded it his expression growing increasingly serious this isn't from Mrs Abbott it's not her writing he said see the delivery card

Starting point is 00:12:09 that came with the pudding? That's Mrs. Abbott's writing. I suspect she knows nothing about this note. He paused before reading it aloud. You won't catch me this time, Mr. Holmes. Merry Christmas. Whatever can it mean, I asked. Holmes brushed a few crumbs off the note,

Starting point is 00:12:37 then folded it and placed it in his waistcoat pocket. It means that someone has taken the opportunity to send me a message in a very novel way, a rather bold message at that. I shook my head. Who would do such a thing? That's what I intend to find out. Mrs. Hudson do you know if anyone else nearby.

Starting point is 00:13:07 is having puddings delivered, I would like to speak to the new delivery boy. She nodded and gave the addresses of Mrs. Abbott's other customers that she knew of. Then we must act swiftly, homes declared. Watson, let's fetch our coats and hats. We need to catch up with that boy before the trail goes cold. Very soon we were hurrying out of 21B Baker Street. The afternoon air was crisp and Holmes set off at a brisk pace, scanning the street ahead.

Starting point is 00:13:54 I did my best to match his long strides. There, Holmes exclaimed, pointing ahead, I can see the boy. We hastened our steps, weaving, pedestrians laden with parcels. The boy was moving at a steady pace. The barrow appeared to be less of an effort to push now that some of its contents had been delivered. Young man, Holmes called out, a moment if you please. The boy stopped and turned, his eyes widening slightly when they saw. is approaching. There was something about his expression that struck me as unusual.

Starting point is 00:14:46 He didn't appear frightened or even particularly surprised. Instead, he seemed almost expectant. Holmes reached him and said, I wonder if we might ask you a few questions about the delivery you made to 221B Baker street. I'm Sherlock Holmes, and this is Dr. Watson. The boy nodded solemnly. Yes, sir, I thought you might want to speak with me. Holmes and I exchanged a glance. This was becoming more intriguing by the moment. You expected us to follow you, I asked gently. not exactly, sir, the boy replied, but Mrs. Burton said you might ask me about the ingredients in the pudding,

Starting point is 00:15:47 and that I'm to say, I don't even know what they are, which is true, sir. A flicker of amusement appeared in Holmes's eyes. He said, what's your name, lad? Timothy, sir, Timothy Fletcher. Well, Timothy, Holmes continued, Can you tell us who gave you the pudding to deliver to our address? It was Mrs. Abbott herself, sir. She put all of them in the barrow, in the order they were supposed to be delivered.

Starting point is 00:16:25 Holmes continued, Has anyone intercepted your deliveries today, Timothy, or spoken to you about them? Timothy shook his head. No, sir, no one at all. Holmes gestured towards the cloth covered puddings in the burrow, and asked, Would you mind pulling the cloth so I can look at the other puddings?

Starting point is 00:16:53 But only if you feel at ease doing so, I wouldn't want you to get into trouble with Mrs. Abbott. Timothy considered the matter for a few seconds, his young face serious. He said, I suppose it would be okay. He pulled back the cover, giving us a glance at the precious puddings beneath. Holmes said, just as I suspected. Watson, can you see how neatly the street.

Starting point is 00:17:31 strings had been tied on these, much neater than the one that was delivered to us. I nodded, the difference was clear to see. The boy put the cover back in place and asked if there was anything else we needed. Nothing at all, Holmes answered. You've been a great help Timothy, we'll let you get on with your deliveries. The boy set off once more along the busy streets. I gave Holmes a puzzled look and said, What do you make of it if this boy is telling the truth? I have no reason to doubt him, then the note must have been placed in the pudding at Mrs. Abbott's bakery. Precisely Watson, Holmes replied, which means we must pay a visit to Mrs. Abbott immediately. Either she placed the note there herself, which seems highly unlikely giving her character,

Starting point is 00:18:47 or someone else had access to the pudding before it was delivered. But who would have such access? Whims said, setting off in the direction of Mrs. Abbott's Bakery is exactly what I intend to discover. We walked briskly through the streets of London, passing shops decorated with Harley and Ivy. A short while later, we turned onto the street where Mrs. Abbott's Bakery was located. The bakery was a charming establishment with bow windows that displayed delicious treats. We entered the shop enveloped us immediately with the most delightful smells of cinnamon, ginger and freshly baked bread. Mrs Abbott looked up from the counter and smiled in recognition.

Starting point is 00:19:58 obviously expecting Holmes to take his yinny guess at the elusive secret ingredient. However, her expression grew serious when Holmes asked to speak to her in private. Mrs. Abbott led us into the back room. Holmes showed her the note. Mrs. Abbott let out a gas. Mr Holmes, I can assure you that I certainly did not put that note in your pudding. I would never do such a thing, and what an awful message for you. Truly awful. It is, Holmes agreed.

Starting point is 00:20:45 Mrs. Abbott, could you take us through the production process of your fine puddings, please? It would help us ascertain when someone, They have had the opportunity to commit this terrible act. Mrs. Abbott explained she creates the festive deserts entirely by herself, beginning several months in advance. Once steamed and cooled, she keeps them in a locked storage area for several months until it's time to deliver them. Holmes asked if anyone else had a key to the storage area No one but me she answered

Starting point is 00:21:33 While the puddings are in storage I make checks on them several times a month And only bring them out on the day they are to be delivered I then place them in the barrow Along with their delivery cards on top of each one when the delivery boy arrives, he's ready to set off straight away. And where is the sparrow kept until he arrives? I asked. She pointed towards the back door. Out there in the yard at the back, the gate to the yard is always kept locked.

Starting point is 00:22:18 And I have the only key. When Timothy, our new delivery, boy arrived earlier, he came in through the shop door, and I let him through this room and into the yard. Holmes said, someone must have put the note in after you placed the puddings in the barrow, and before Timothy took charge of them, how long were the puddings had been left and attended in the yard? Mrs. Abbott answered. Oh, about 15 minutes or so, do you think the note was put in then? Holmes didn't answer the question directly and instead said, I noticed two women serving behind the counter with you.

Starting point is 00:23:09 I recall seeing them on previous visits here. What are their names and how long have they been with you? Mrs. Abbott advised they were called Anna and Sally, and had worked for her for over five years. She added, I trust them both completely, Mr. Holmes. You don't think one of them could have put that note in the pudding, do you? I do need to consider every possibility, Holmes advised.

Starting point is 00:23:43 May I speak to them, one at a time, please. I'd like you to stay while I talk to them. Mrs. Abbott nodded. I'll bring Anna through first the next ten minutes, with Mrs. Abbott at our side. Holmes questioned the woman gently, and both seemed innocent. Before we left the bakery, Holmes assured Mrs. Abbott, we would investigate the matter further, and let her know the outcome. What's outside, Holmes said to me, Watson, Sally lied to us.

Starting point is 00:24:28 Lied? I repeated, surprised. But Holmes, she seemed so genuine. What makes you think she was being dishonest? Several things, my dear fellow, Holmes replied, pulling his coat tighter against the cold. Firstly, did you notice how she avoided making direct eye contact with Mrs. Abbott during our conversation? She addressed her responses to us, but never once looked at her employer, and she kept scrunching and releasing the bottom edge of her apron. A small gesture, but one that increased the more she spoke to us. a sign of nervousness. Perhaps she's merely the nervous type, I pointed out. That doesn't make her a liar.

Starting point is 00:25:28 It's a possibility, Watson, but I have the feeling that she was lying to us. I think Sonny place the note in the pudding, but that she may have been forced to place it there. We should keep watch on the bakery and see if she leaves. If my suspicions are correct, she will exit the bakery soon

Starting point is 00:25:53 and lead us to whoever orchestrated this scheme to warn them that we are investigating the matter. We made our way to a small public house directly opposite Mrs. Abbott's establishment. Holmes ordered us each a drink and we settled ourselves at a table by the window where we had an excellent view of the bakery entrance. We did not have long to wait. Perhaps 20 minutes had passed when the door to the bakery opened and Sally emerged.

Starting point is 00:26:34 Glancing nervously up and down the street, even from our vantage point, I could see the worry etched upon her face. There she goes, Holmes said, setting down his glass, Come Watson, we must be discreet. We left the pub and followed Sally at careful distance. She moved quickly through the streets, her head down, occasionally looking over her shoulder. We kept well back, using the crowds of Christmas shoppers as cover. She led us through several winding streets until we found ourselves at the busily Covent Garden Market. The market was a riot of activity and colour.

Starting point is 00:27:29 Stalls were laden with festive goods and the air rang with the cries of vendors advertising their wares. I noticed several police officers moving through the crowd with watchful eyes. Holmes, I said quietly, there seems to be a rather lot of constables about. There is always a high level of crime at such places, he said.

Starting point is 00:28:00 His attention, never leaving Sally's figure as she wove between the stalls. I have already observed several pickpockets working the crowd. The police are doubtless, on the heightened alert during this busy season. However, they may soon need to turn their attention to a different matter entirely.

Starting point is 00:28:26 We continued to follow Sally as she walked deeper into the market. Then quite suddenly, the last sight of her, in a particularly dense crush of shoppers, gathered around a stall selling roasted chestnuts, We pushed through the crowd as politely as we could, searching for any glimpse of Sally. For ten anxious minutes, we searched the market, moving from stall to stall. I was beginning to fear we had lost her entirely when Holmes touched my arm. There, he said, pointing towards the market exit.

Starting point is 00:29:13 She's leaving. I spotted Sally, rushing away from the stalls, her pale face and her expression deeply troubled. Holmes made no move to go after her. We don't need to follow her any longer, Watson, he said. Whoever wrote that note and possibly compelled Sally to place it in the pudding must be here. in the market somewhere. That's where we should be looking now. But how can you be certain? I asked. The contents of the notes, my dear fellow, it said, you won't catch me this time, Mr. Holmes. This is someone I have caught before, someone who bears a grudge and seeks some measure

Starting point is 00:30:10 of revenge. That person is here, Watson. I am sure of it, but who is it? We stepped to one side, positioning ourselves near a lamppost, where hoes could observe the market crowds without drawing attention. I watched as he took in the bustling scene, cataloguing faces and movements with that extraordinary mental faculty of his. After several minutes of silent observation, Holmes began to point out various individuals scattered throughout the market. There, he said, indicating a thin man in a threadbare coat examining pocket watches at a nearby stall.

Starting point is 00:31:06 an accomplished pit pocket by the look of it. See how he keeps his right hand behind his back. That's where he conceals his spoils, he nodded, towards a burly fellow loitering near the flower stalls. He must be working with a pit pocket, creating distractions while his partner works the crowd. Notice how he's positioned himself to block. the Lender's view. I observed the two men with growing fascination. Now that Holmes had pointed them out, their suspicious behaviour seemed obvious.

Starting point is 00:31:54 And that woman by the ribbon stall, Holmes continued, the one in the green dress, admiring the merchandise so intently, watch our hands, Watson. she's not shopping at all. She's assessing which customers have loosely fastened handbags. I followed his gaze and saw the woman he meant. Her eyes were indeed not on the ribbons, but on the ladies, browsing around her. None of them is our culprit, however. Home said thoughtfully,

Starting point is 00:32:35 they are all engaged in their usual petty crimes, but none have any reason to target me specifically, as our paths have never crossed. I see that some police officers have already spotted the miscreants and are moving closer, so there's no need for us to intervene this time. He continued his survey. his expression growing more intense

Starting point is 00:33:09 than quite suddenly a smile crossed his features he said with satisfaction I might have known what is at Holmes I asked have you spotted our man without answering Holmes strewed away and I followed him

Starting point is 00:33:32 he walked purposefully through the cross market until he stopped at a stall selling mistletoe and festive greenery. Behind the counter stood a heavyset man with a weathered face. Holmes waited patiently for the current customer to complete her purchase. The woman selected a bunch of mistletoe and paid for it, receiving change from the stallholder. Holmes watched the exchange closely, his attention lingering on the coins as they passed between them. She wished the cellar a Merry Christmas.

Starting point is 00:34:20 He responded with a cheerful smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. As the woman walked away, the man's gaze fell upon Holmes and me, and I saw recognition flicker across his features. He gave us a knowing smile, though there was a hint of wariness in his expression. Good afternoon, Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson. He said his voice gruff, but not unfriendly. Reggie! Holmes acknowledged with a slight nod.

Starting point is 00:35:02 I wasn't expecting to see you here. I thought you had another year left on your prison sentence. You being sentenced to five years when I put you behind bars. The man called Reggie

Starting point is 00:35:21 shifted uncomfortably behind his stall. I was, I was let out early for good behaviour, Mr Holmes. I've gone straight, I swear it. Did he want something? a mistletoe or something else from my stall. Holmes replied, we don't want anything

Starting point is 00:35:42 from you, Reggie, except a confession. The man made a wonderful show of looking thoroughly confused. A confession, I don't know what you're talking about, Mr. Holmes, I've done nothing wrong. Holmes proceeded to tell him about the note in the pudding. and how Reggie must have coerced a woman called Sally into putting it there. Reggie continued denying the crime and added that he didn't know anyone called Sally. Holmes produced the note from his pocket and opened it to show Reggie. He said, May I draw your attention to the writing on this piece of paper and to those on your

Starting point is 00:36:35 your signs. Notice how you form your letter S with that distinctive flourish, until capital M has the characteristic slant. The handwriting is identical. You wrote this and you pressured Sally into placing it in our pudding. Reggie's face had grown pale and I could see the beans of perspiration forming on his forehead, despite of the cold weather. He opened his mouth as if to protest, then seemed to think better of it. Holmes continued, you spent four years in prison. Is that when you came up with this idea? Reggie was quiet for a moment, then said, he wasn't meant as a real threat, Mr. Holmes.

Starting point is 00:37:32 I just wanted you to know that I'm doing well now, and that I've made something of myself, despite everything. You won't catch me this time, because there's nothing to catch, see? I thought it was clever, a bit of harmless mischief. Holmes studied him carefully. And, Sully, how did you convince her to help you? And don't insult us. by saying you don't know her, the family resemblance is obvious.

Starting point is 00:38:09 Now that Holmes had pointed it out, I could see the similarity between Sally and Reggie, especially the eyes. Reggie said, all right, I do know her. She's my younger sister. I didn't threaten her, if that's what you're thinking. She didn't want to do it at first. She didn't want to do it at first, and said it would be wrong. But I pleaded with her, told her it was just a bit of fun, that you would understand the joke of it. Thinking about it now, perhaps I shouldn't have put her in that position. I'll apologise to her. I didn't mean any harm. Honestly, it was merely a joke, Mr. Holmes. That's all it was. Holmes was silent. a long moment as he studied Reggie's face. I had seen that look before. He was weighing evidence,

Starting point is 00:39:11 assessing character, determining the truth of what he had been told. Reggie, Holmes began. You haven't changed your ways at all. I noticed that the change you gave the customer a few minutes ago was counterfeit. If I take a look at the rest of the money you intend to use for change, I expect I will see the same illegal tender. The note wasn't a joke at all. I believe you were deliberately taunting me.

Starting point is 00:39:49 Did you really think I wouldn't find you? Now just a minute, Reggie blustered, looking left and right as though he wanted to run away. I know nothing about any counterfeit coins. You can't prove anything. Holmes said, save your excuses for the police. He nodded to a nearby police officer who must have recognised Holmes immediately

Starting point is 00:40:21 before he rushed over to us. Holmes quickly explained everything to the officer and gave him the note. Within minutes, Reggie was handcuffed. Holmes tipped his hat at Reggie and wished him a Merry Christmas. Reggie said, you won't catch me next time, Mr. Holmes. Holmes replied, Oh, I will. We walked away from the stall and out of the market. We headed back to Mrs. Abbott's bakery and went inside where we found a tearful Sally confessing everything to Mrs. Abbott.

Starting point is 00:41:07 The kindly baker listened patiently to Sally's stammered explanation about her brother, and how, if she didn't put the note in the pudding, Reggie threatened to let Mrs Abbott know that she was related to a convicted criminal. The prospect of losing her position and Mrs. Abbott's good opinion had terrified her, but Reggie's persistence had worn her down. Mrs. Abbott, to her credit, listened to everything with patience and compassion. When Sally had finished, she placed a comforting hand on the young woman's shoulder. Sally, she said gently, you should have come to me. You could have dealt with this together.

Starting point is 00:42:04 But I understand why you didn't. Family can complicate matters terribly. Then you're not dismissing me? Sally said hopefully, wiping her eyes. Dismiss you, Mrs. Abbott said. My dear girl, you've been an excellent employee for five years. One mistake made under pressure from family doesn't erase all that good work.

Starting point is 00:42:34 However, there must be no more secrets between us. If Reggie or anyone else tries to pressure you again, you come to meet immediately. Do you understand? Sally nodded vigorously. Yes, Mrs. Abbott, I promise. Thank you. Thank you so much. Mrs. Abbott added,

Starting point is 00:42:59 Why don't you go home early? This has been a terrible experience for you. Sally thanked her employer again and went to collect her belongings. Mrs. Abbott turned to homes and me. I assume you have discovered that Sally's brother is behind that terrible note. Holmes confirmed that he had and that Reggie's fate was now with the police. Well, Mrs. Abbott said, I'm glad it's all resolved.

Starting point is 00:43:37 What an awful business, especially for Sally. Now then, Mr. Holmes, I have something for you. She disappeared into the back room and returned a moment later, carrying a Christmas pudding, carefully wrapped and tied with a festive ribbon. This one is freshly wrapped, I assure you, she said with a smile. No mysterious notes hidden within. Consider it a replacement for the one that has been spoiled by saddust. his brother. Holmes accepted the pudding with a gracious nod. Thank you, Mrs. Abbott, and might I take this opportunity to make a guess and your secret ingredient? I think I recognised it when I examined

Starting point is 00:44:34 the one you sent to Baker Street. Mrs. Abbott's smile widened. Of course, Mr. Holmes, I do enjoy our annual tradition. Holmes paused for a few moments, as though recalling the aroma from earlier that day. Then he declared, The secret ingredient is grated apple, carefully mixed with a small amount of brandy to prevent the browning.

Starting point is 00:45:09 It adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the dried fruits perfectly. Mrs. Abbott let out a delighted laugh and clapped her hands together. Oh Mr. Holmes, you're so very close, but not quite right. It's not apple and brandy at all, though I can see where you might think so. The special ingredient does add moisture and sweetness, but at something, rather different. She gave him an enigmatic smile,

Starting point is 00:45:47 but I will say this. You're getting warmer with each guess. Perhaps next year you'll finally solve the mystery. Holmes smiled ruefully and tipped his hat to her. I look forward to the challenge, Mrs. Abbott, and I look forward to keeping my secret for another year. She replied merrily, We bid farewell to Mrs. Abbott and stepped out into the darkening afternoon.

Starting point is 00:46:20 As we walked back towards Baker Street, I asked Holmes if he would ever discover the secret ingredient. I am certain I will, Watson, Holmes said with confidence, even if it takes me several more years. After all, persistence is often the key to solving the most stubborn mysteries. Besides, the annual challenge has become something of a pleasant tradition. And you do love a mystery, I said with a smile. Holmes laughed, as do you, Watson, especially a Christmas mystery. That I do, Holmes, I replied warmly. that I do

Starting point is 00:47:09 We arrived back at Baker Street To find Mrs Hudson waiting for us With a pot of hot tea and mince pies Fresh from the oven We told her about the mystery And who was behind it Mrs Hudson tuttered and shook her head Holmes handed her the second pudding

Starting point is 00:47:33 And said I'm sure we'll enjoy there even if its secret ingredient remains elusive, though I suspect I will attempt another guess with every mouthful I take. Mrs. Hudson took the festive pudding to let it rest for a few days before making its celebrated appearance on our dining table. Holmes and I passed the remainder of the evening in a comfortable companionship, the cheerful crackle of the fire and the gentle click of tea-cups providing a soothing backdrop to a conversation. Outside London settled into its winter night. As I prepared to retire to my room later that evening, I paused,

Starting point is 00:48:31 to look back at Holmes, who sat by the fire. He appeared peaceful and content, a rare state for a man whose mind was usually racing ahead to the next puzzle, the next challenge. Good night, Holmes, I said softly. Good night, Watson, he replied warmly. I climbed the stairs to my bedroom. my mind still filled with the events of the day. It'd been exactly the sort of Christmas adventure I'd come to expect in the company of Sherlock Holmes. As I settled into bed, I found myself smiling at the thought of Christmas Day

Starting point is 00:49:18 when we would gather around the table to enjoy Mrs. Abbott's famous pudding. With these pleasant thoughts, I closed my eyes and drifted into a peaceful sleep, grateful for their friendship, the mysteries, and the small joys that made a life at 221B Baker Street, such a remarkable adventure.

Guided Sleep Meditation & Sleep Hypnosis from Sleep Cove - Sherlock Holmes and The Christmas Pudding Mystery

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