not his glass of tea

from "Sherlock Holmes in the Lost World" by Martin Powell

In honor of this auspicious occasion here's him getting choked the fuck out

My companion raised his eyebrows. I knew that he studiously avoided being photographed, as it was to his advantage when dealing with the criminal fraternity – and well as the general public – not to have his appearance generally known.

“I would only have one print made,” I assured him, “and would not share it with a soul. Please, Holmes.”

Grey eyes swept searchingly over my face, as he uttered a single syllable. “Why?”

I hesitated, for I knew how my friend viewed such sentimental impulses. “It’s only that – when I believed you were dead – I had nothing to remember you by but your cigarette-case and the note you left. There were no pictures. And, well – ” I laughed a little deprecatingly, my eyes fixed on the pavement before me, “ – after a time I began to fear that I would forget what you looked like.”

My friend had ceased walking, and I came to a halt and turned back to find a most peculiar expression adorning his features. After a moment he smiled slightly, took my arm and turned to cross the street. “Very well, my dear fellow. Let us have ourselves immortalized in silver and baryta.”

The resulting portrait, depicting us in a typical studio pose – Holmes, as the taller one, seated and myself standing by his side – remains one of my most cherished possessions. As years pass and time leaves its mark upon us both, it preserves us as we were in that most remarkable year, when my friend returned to me beyond all hope or expectation.

Holmes made no comment on my reason for asking this favor of him, but he did purchase a print of the photograph for himself.

Such images can be a comfort, whether a loved one’s absence proves to be temporary or permanent – as I am reminded each time I glance at the framed picture upon my bedside table and see Mary’s sweet face looking back at me.

The Return of Sherlock Holmes (1986) Granada Television - s1e7 - The Six Napoleons

partners...in crime!

:,)

07x01 The Three Gables