hound ch. 14-15

Chapter 14: The Hound of the Baskervilles

The Approach to Merripit House

The three detectives — Sherlock Holmes, Dr. John Watson, and Inspector Lestrade — stealthily approach Merripit House, mindful of the need to remain undetected, as they suspect nefarious activities surrounding the investigation of the Baskerville curse. They cautiously observe Sir Henry Baskerville and the enigmatic Mr. Stapleton deep in conversation over coffee, exchanging glances that suggest an underlying tension. Sir Henry appears visibly anxious and restless, particularly worried about traversing the perilous moorland that envelops the estate and the legends that haunt it.

The Fog and the Hound

As the plot unfolds, Stapleton discreetly departs to a small outhouse, where the detectives anxiously overhear strange, unsettling noises that evoke a sense of foreboding. Suddenly, a thick blanket of fog descends upon the moor, dramatically reducing visibility and adding to the detectives' growing apprehension. This atmospheric change creates a sense of isolation and danger as the detectives struggle to keep sight of Henry Baskerville, rendering them helpless to intervene if the hound were to attack. When the ghostly hound finally materializes through the fog, it is depicted as an enormous, iridescent, fire-breathing beast, remarkably aligning with the sinister myth of the Baskerville hound that has plagued the family for generations.

The Confrontation

In a desperate moment of courage, the detectives fire a shot at the monstrous beast as it menaces Henry; however, the solitary bullet fails to incapacitate the creature. Fortunately, Holmes, renowned for his sharpshooting skills, is able to draw his weapon quickly enough to fire five more shots that ultimately thwart the hound's vicious attack. After the chaos, the hound collapses, and a closer examination reveals its true nature as a bloodhound-mastiff hybrid, with phosphorous compounds cleverly applied to create a ghastly glow, further enhancing the creature's fearful reputation.

The Aftermath

In the aftermath of the confrontation, the detectives return to Merripit House only to discover the shocking scene of Mrs. Stapleton bound and gagged, indicating her complicity and perhaps the extent of her husband's darker machinations.

Chapter 15: A Retrospection

Discovery and Background

Upon regaining consciousness, Mrs. Stapleton breathlessly confirms that Sir Henry is safe and that the fearsome hound has been vanquished. In a moment fraught with tension, she reveals critical information about her husband's concealed location in the Grimpen mire, a treacherous and deceptive marshland known for consuming the unwary. Given the oppressive fog that still lingers, Holmes and Watson collectively decide to retrace their steps back to Baskerville Hall, emphasizing their determination to piece together the final elements of the case.

The Pursuit

The following day, Mrs. Stapleton, driven by a complex mix of motivation, guides the detectives through the treacherous mire, fervently seeking to capture her elusive husband. They follow a distinct trail until they stumble upon Sir Henry's missing black boot, which Stapleton had cunningly used to track his movements. To their astonishment, the detectives discover that Stapleton's footprints mysteriously vanish into the mire, suggesting that he may have met a perilous fate within its depths. They eventually locate the lair where the fearsome hound was concealed, discovering it equipped with phosphorous, the very element used to terrorize the late Sir Charles Baskerville.

Unveiling Stapleton's Identity

Back in the heart of London, Sir Henry and Dr. Mortimer convene with Holmes to unravel the intricate web of this case. Holmes reveals a startling revelation: Stapleton is, in fact, Roger Baskerville Jr., the long-lost heir presumed dead, who is the son of Charles Baskerville's brother. Having lived in South America after fleeing, Roger returned to England bent on reclaiming his inheritance, manipulating the myth of the hound to orchestrate his nefarious plans against Charles.

The Scheme Unfolds

Holmes elucidates how Roger had previously attempted to lure his wife into a conspiracy to frighten Sir Charles, and later sought the assistance of Laura Lyons in his ploy for monetary gain. Following Henry's arrival, Stapleton brazenly steals one of his shoes to utilize Henry's scent for the hound; however, in a slip-up, he initially takes a new shoe that proves unsuitable for this sinister stratagem.

Mrs. Stapleton's Role

Mrs. Stapleton finds herself entangled in a complicated relationship fraught with fear and loyalty, attempting to shield Henry from danger without disclosing the full extent of her husband's malevolent designs. Investigation into their home lives reveals Stapleton's jealousy and complex emotional dynamics that ultimately contribute to the tragic turn of events.

Conclusion of the Case

On a fateful and tumultuous night, Mrs. Stapleton finally confronts her husband regarding his connection to the hound, resulting in her being captured and restrained. In the aftermath, Holmes cryptically reflects on the remaining unaddressed matters concerning Stapleton's claim to the fortune, speculating on the potential future behavior of the rogue heir. Meanwhile, Henry, seeking solace and respite from the traumatic events, begins planning a much-needed vacation with Dr. Mortimer to alleviate the burdens of his recent experiences.