Guided Sleep Meditation & Sleep Hypnosis from Sleep Cove - Sherlock Holmes and The Missing Portrait

Starting point is 00:00:01 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? 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. And welcome to Sleep Cove, the place to get a great night's sleep.

Starting point is 00:00:44 With me, Christopher Fitten. Tonight I'm reading a new Sherlock Holmes story written by Maple Swift, called The Missing Portrait. Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson face a perplexing puzzle when the Duchess of Rothbury asks them for help. What should have been a routine portrait by the sought-after artist Julian DeVoe turns into a baffling mystery? Instead of her own image, the Duchess's recently delivered painting shows a mysterious man seated in her library. The Duchess is concerned and asks Holmes and Watson to look into the matter using their utmost discretion. Holmes and Watson begin their investigation and soon discover that the Duchess of Rothbury wasn't the only one who received a peculiar portrait that day. But how are they all parts of the story?

Starting point is 00:02:00 will be published on the Mysteries at Midnight Podcast and my Sleepcove Bedtime Story Channel. I will leave their links in the show notes. I'll also leave a link to the books by Mabel Swift if you're interested in more stories. Please remember to subscribe so you don't miss out on upcoming episodes. Let's begin. Sherlock Holmes and The Missing Portrait. by Mabel Swift Chapter 1

Starting point is 00:02:38 Inside the upper rooms of 221 the Baker Street Sherlock Holmes reclined in his well-worn armchair The faint from him His steadfast companion Dr John Watson Occupied his customary seat

Starting point is 00:03:13 his gaze alternating between the pages before him and the pensive expression upon his friend's countenance. It has been an eternity since our last case, Watson, Holmes remarked, his voice tinged with a hint of restlessness as he tossed aside the newspaper. its contents evidently failing to peak his insatiable curiosity. Arry smile played upon his nips. One eyebrow arched quizzically. Has everyone taken a holiday away from London perhaps? Or have people taken to solving their own mysteries? Watson chuckled.

Starting point is 00:04:11 He set aside his newspaper with a contented sigh. Patience homes, he counselled. A glint of fond amusement, dancing in his eyes, as he regarded his arrestive companion. Trouble has an uncanny neck for finding us, even in the most unlikely of circumstances. if on cue the gentle knock upon the door preceded the entrance of their landlady, Mrs Hudson. Her kindly face crinkled into a warm smile as she made her way into the sitting room,

Starting point is 00:05:00 proffering a sealed envelope. A message for you, Mr Holmes, she announced, clearly well accustomed to acting as the intermediary for the various missives and inquiries that found their way to the celebrated detective. Straightened in his chair, eyes alight with renewed interest as he accepted the mysterious correspondence. Deftly breaking the seal with one long finger, he swiftly scanned the contents of the contents of the letter. His expression inscrutable, Watson prompted, what is the nature of this correspondence? It would appear, my dear Watson, that we have been summoned by the Duchess of Rothbury. Holmes replied, his voice tinged with intrigue, as he refolded the letter with deft movements. The esteemed lady requests our assistance in a matter of delicate import

Starting point is 00:06:24 and extends a gracious invitation to her stately residence in Mayfair. No doubt the nature of her predicament shall prove a stimulating diversion from the mundaneities that have played as of late. Watson's eye in recognition at the mention of the illustrious name, the Duchess of Ruffbury. Why, I have heard many a tale of her lavish soirees and her Tyler's dedication to the social well of London's high society. The Duchess has kept herself extremely occupied since the tragician. passing of her beloved husband, the late duke, her philanthropic endeavours, and patronage of the arts are renowned throughout the city's elite circles. His fingers steepled beneath this chin as he

Starting point is 00:07:41 ponderance. A most curious summons to be sure. This matter must be of a lot of a delicate nature indeed, to compel her to solicit our services. I must reply forthwith, and afresh I shall inform the Duchess that we will pay her a visit. This very, the flourish, his response, the nib of his pen, scratching across the parchment, with practised ease, the missive with a dab of crimson wax. from the candle flickering nearby, imprinting it with a distinctive crest of his personal seal. Max had called securing the envelope's contents downstairs in search of Mrs Hudson. He found her in the parlour, dusting the mantelpiece with her customary care and attention.

Starting point is 00:09:06 Mrs Hudson, might I trouble you to arrange for the prompt delivery of this message? He inquired, holding out the sealed envelope. Of course, Mr Holmes, she replied, taking the letter with a nod. Her eyes widened momentarily with undisguised interest, as she glimpsed the name inscribed upon the envelope. But as discreet as always, she didn't voice her curiosity aloud and merely said, I shall deal with this straight away, leaving Holmes to his contemplations about the Duchess of Rothbury

Starting point is 00:10:01 and why she needed. Chapter 2 The handsome cab trundled to a halt Before the grand facade of the Duchess of Rothbury's stately residence in Mayfair Clopping against the cobblestones as they came to Holmes stepped out first Casting an appraising eye Over the imposing edifice before him

Starting point is 00:10:41 Dr Watson followed close behind, and able to entirely conceal his awe at the opulent surroundings. Impressive is it not? Holmes remarked, his voice laced with a hint of dry amusement as he took in his companion's reaction. Though I dare say,

Starting point is 00:11:11 the true interest lies not in the outward trappings of wealth and status, but rather in the delicate mystery that awaits us within. A liveried footman hastened to usher them in to the resplendent foyer. The rich sense of polished wood and beeswax mingled with a faint. This way says, The footman intoned as he led them through the labyrinthine corridors towards the parlour where the Duchess awaited their arrival.

Starting point is 00:12:06 As they entered the sumultuously appointed room, the Duchess rose from her seat with a gracious smile on her face as she extended her hand in welcome. Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson, how good of you to attend with such alacrity? She greeted them warmly. I do hope the matter at hand proves a worthy diversion from your usual pursuits, inclined his head respectfully. His keen gaze sweeping over the Duchess's form as he committed, every nuance of her appearance and demeanour to his prodigious memory.

Starting point is 00:12:59 Your grace, he replied smoothly, you may rest assured that whatever matter concerns you, you shall receive the utmost dedication of my humble talents. The Duchess gestured for them to be seated, her expression growing momentary, terribly pensive as she collected her thoughts. As I intimated in my missive, the nature of this affair is one of delicate importance, requiring the utmost discretion. Early this morning I received a delivery that has caused me no small degree of consternation. She rose from her chair and,

Starting point is 00:13:54 crossed to a nearby side table, upon which arrested a large canvas-wrapped object. She entied the cords, securing the wrappings, allowing the fabric to fall away to reveal the portrait concealed Ben Watson's brows, rose in surprise, as he took in the image depicted upon the canvas. A striking betrayal of a man attired in a business suit, seated in what appeared to be a private library. You see, gentlemen, the touches continued, this is not, as I had anticipated,

Starting point is 00:14:46 a portrait of my own likeness that I had commissioned from the esteemed artist Julian DeVoe. Instead, it depicts a gentleman entirely unknown to me. Though I must confess, his face does strike a faint chord of familiarity, and I wonder if I've seen him at a social gathering recently. More unsettling, though, is the background, for this is my library, and it's the room I chose for my portrait. It's a mystery as to who,

Starting point is 00:15:24 who this man is and why he should be painted in my library. Homer's brow furrowed ever so slightly as he studied the canvas, narrowing in contemplation. A most curious development in Dean, he murmured, his gaze flickering briefly towards the Duchess, before returning to scrutinise the figure betrayed upon the canvas. Might I inquire as to the specifics of your commission to Mr. DeVoe? Any pertinent details, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could prove invaluable in unraveling this perplexing conundrum. The Duchess said,

Starting point is 00:16:18 Mr. DeVoe is widely renowned for his unparalleled talent in capturing the essence of his subjects through his inquisite portraiture. Operant settings and aristocratic subjects have been synonymous with DeVos' name, and he has a long list of clients, some of whom are in my social circles. In the wake of my dear husband's passing, I felt compelled to commission a new portrait of myself in the library. It was a place where I spent many treasured hours with my husband. Holmes and Dr. Watson listened with an occasional knot of understanding.

Starting point is 00:17:14 The Duchess continued, and her eyes took on a distant look as she delved into the recollections. Mr. DeVoe and I had a seven. several preliminary consultations, during which he would study me intently, committing every nuance of my features and bearing to his sketchpad. Once he had enough information, I chose my required gown and placed myself in the library, spent many hours painting my portrait. But in line with his requirements, I was. not permitted to see any part of the portrait until it was finished. She looked towards the portrait, her expression clearly conveying it was not at all what she had been expecting.

Starting point is 00:18:15 Watson listened intently. His brow furrowed in concentration as he sought to piece together the puzzle before them. He said. And yet despite his meticulous preparations and your explicit commission, the portrait you received bears no semblance to you, a most muffling turn of events to be sure. The Duchess inclined her head, a troubled expression flickering across her refined features.

Starting point is 00:18:53 Precisely, Dr Watson, she affirmed, As you can well imagine, I was quite taken aback upon unveiling this betrayal, which makes me wonder if my likeness has been captured in another's house, perhaps seated in one of their rooms. As I said, Mr. DeVoe has a long list of clients, and I'm worried that the workload was too much for him, and he made mistakes with his backgrounds and such as. I sincerely hope someone isn't gazing upon my face instead of their own somewhere in London.

Starting point is 00:19:38 Home said Sajni, that's precisely what I'm thinking too. The Duchess's voice dropped as she confided her innermost concerns. I fear the potential ramifications should word of this puzzling substitution become public knowledge of my true portrait being misplaced fills me with no small degree of trepidation not to mention that I now have a portrait

Starting point is 00:20:19 of a strange man in my library what would people think Holmes's eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he regarded the Duchess his brilliant mind already wearing with potential theory and avenues of investigation. Fear not your grace, he assured her,

Starting point is 00:20:43 we shall endeavour to enravell this mystery. May I ask, how was the painting delivered to you? The Duchess replied, it arrived at the tradesman entrance a few hours ago, and my butler placed it here. Another puzzling element is the label that was attached to the outer wrapping, I still have it. She moved over to the sightboard and retrieved a piece of paper.

Starting point is 00:21:16 She gave it to Holmes. He read the Duchess of Rothery's Library. How peculiar, the painting is addressed to your library and not yourself. This only adds to the mystery, but I assure you, your grace we will solve. this puzzle for you. The Duchess met his gaze levely, a flicker of relief evident in her eyes.

Starting point is 00:21:48 Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson, you have my sincere appreciation. My reputation and the legacy of my late husband's noble name rests in your most capable hands. Chapter 3. With the Duchess's revelations, still fresh in their minds

Starting point is 00:22:14 Sherlock Holmes and the good doctor wasted no time in securing the address of Mr. DeVos' studio from her ladyship before bidding her farewell. Come Watson

Starting point is 00:22:30 Holmes exclaimed his long strides carrying him swiftly towards the waiting handsome cab the trail grows ever warmer and we must pursue it with all haste, lest it turn cold. The artistic quarter of London, with its charming array of studios and galleries, proved to be their destination.

Starting point is 00:23:00 The cab clattered to a halt before a nondescript edifice. Its brick facade, weathered by the elements, yet exuding an undeniable air of creative energy. Holmes rapped smartly upon the door of Mr. Duvaux, but the summons went and answered. A frown creased his brow as he tried the handle, only to find it firmly secured against unwanted intrusion. Most peculiar, yet,

Starting point is 00:23:39 murmured, his keen eyes scanning their surroundings for any clue or indication as to the artist's whereabouts. It was at this moment that the sound of a door opening nearby caught their attention. His clothes liberally spattered with vibrant hues of paint emerged from the neighbouring studio. His brow furrowed in mild annoyance at this disturbance. Can I be of assistance, gentlemen? He inquired. Holmes replied, Indeed you can, sir.

Starting point is 00:24:27 We are in search of Julian DeVoe, the artist whose studio lies here. Might you have any knowledge of his current whereabouts? The young man's expression shift. a flicker of surprise crossing his features, why he departed most abruptly a few hours ago, bundling a few suitcases into a waiting carriage and making off with narrow a word of explanation. Mawson's eyebrows rose in surprise at this revelation. and he exchanged a meaningful glance with his companion.

Starting point is 00:25:20 Appropriably, you say, Holmes pressed. Most unlike an artist of such renown, I should think. A man nodded. I was working intently on my art this morning, and the sudden commotion outside disturbed me. I looked out of my window and saw DeVoe, hurrying out into the street with his belongings, hailing a cab with an almost frantic urgency. Most out of character, I must say.

Starting point is 00:25:57 The man is usually a picture of composure and decorum. Holmes' eyes narrowed thoughtfully what made him leave with such haste and where he was going. The young artist said He might turn up at his exhibition tonight Is being held at a gallery on Bond Street Is the invading of his latest works Or so I believe If he's to make an appearance anywhere soon

Starting point is 00:26:31 It would surely be there Would you like the gallery's name Holmes said That would be most appreciated Thank you The young man gave the details and said goodbye before hurrying back into his studio. As Holmes and Watson retraced their steps towards the awaiting handsome cab, Holmes expression was pensive, his mind already formulating a strategy for their next move.

Starting point is 00:27:08 Well Watson, it would seem our elusive artist has taken flight, much like a startled bird fleeing its cage. But why? Has he realised what a commotion the delivery of his painting to the Duchess would yield? Was the painting a result of his overworked mind, as the Duchess suggested? We shall make our way to this art gallery this evening and see what truths might be revealed. If luck is on our side, we will meet the elusive Mr. DeVoe. Aute sense of purpose, the pair climbed into the cab, already discussing why Julian DeVos had undertaken such a sudden departure,

Starting point is 00:28:01 and if he would return that evening. As Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Codagh-Hawr, Dr. Watson entered the art gallery later that evening. Their low murmur of conversation drifted towards them, carrying with it an undercurrent of bewilderment and surprise. The assembled guests, all adorned in elegant attire, were engaged in hushed discussions with disapproval. This isn't DeVos's usual style at all.

Starting point is 00:29:10 Matters of agreement met Holmes' keen ears picked up on the comments. He strode forward. Watson close at his heels, eager to look upon the controversial works that had so captivated the gathered throng himself mortuous surroundings

Starting point is 00:29:54 and subjects. In their place were the everyday people in the districts their faces etched with the signs of hard living and yet despite the crime

Starting point is 00:30:14 and weariness that clung to their features each subject wore a smile that seemed to radiate from within more astonishing were the backgrounds that DeVos had sketched. They didn't convey the persons expected surroundings at all

Starting point is 00:30:37 and were a mix of seemingly impossible environments. Extraordinary, Holmes said, his gaze roving over the assembled portraits. DeVos has captured the people with an almost whimsical touch, and he's placed them in entirely new environments. But why would he undertake such Mawson replies? Perhaps his subjects asked him to.

Starting point is 00:31:14 Maybe they wanted him to represent whatever dreams filled their sleeping hours. You could be right in that assumption, but let's continue looking and find evidence to support your theory. Dr. Watson pointed to the next framed image. Why, Holmes, isn't that Sarah the flower-sadder from Coven Garden? There she was. The young woman's likeness rendered in exquisite detail.

Starting point is 00:31:54 But instead, of the bustling streets and market stalls that usually formed her backdrop, Sarah was depicted in a sprawling garden surrounded by lush plants and towering trees In her hands she clutched a set of plans The intricate designs hinting at a landscape design Holmes smiled and said Having chatted with Sarah on a few occasions I do recall that she often spoke about

Starting point is 00:32:31 being a landscape designer. Yet she always laughed as soon as she said those words, as if it were an impossible dream. Perhaps she voiced those same words to Julian DeVoe, hence the reason of creating this particular background. I wonder what Sarah thought of this image. Maybe she never saw the finished sketch, Holmes said, but I'm sure it's a little bit. I'm sure it would be something that would bring a smile to her face. Further along the gallery mall, another familiar face caught their attention. Biddy, the young chimney suite,

Starting point is 00:33:19 who often delivered messages to their Baker Street lodgings, grinned up from them from the canvas. His soot-street face alight with joy. But instead of grass, and detritus of his train. Billy was on a stage and surrounded by the trappings of a magician's art, top hat, playing cards, and mysterious boxes, hinting at illusions and magic. It appears the boy dreams of magic, Holmes mused.

Starting point is 00:34:00 I wouldn't put anything past Billy. He's a bright young man. Watson chuckled softly. His heart leaves in fact aspiration to be sure, and one that DeVoe has captured with remarkable sensitivity. As they continued, the circuit of the gallery, Holmes and Watson found themselves confronted with portrait after portrait. Each one a window into the hidden hopes

Starting point is 00:34:36 and dreams of London's, forgotten citizens. Seamstresses and factory workers, street urchins and neighbours, their faces suffused with a quiet dignity that bell circumstances. One thing puzzles me, said Watson. Why would DeVoe choose to focus on these subjects so far removed from his usual fare? And to have them, display here for all to see. Holmes replied, questions that beg and answer, my dear Watson, and one that I suspect may lie at the very heart of our mystery.

Guided Sleep Meditation & Sleep Hypnosis from Sleep Cove - Sherlock Holmes and The Missing Portrait

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