A medium-sized panel truck pulls up in front of the house. Holmes jumps out of the cab and walks over to the fence.

"You won't be able to pull through Sid, so just back it up and we'll unload from here."

The burly young man driving the van nodded and maneuvered the truck so the back was near the gate, which Holmes swung open. When the truck stopped, he banged on the back.

"Doctor! Gentlemen! We've arrived!" Sid joined him at the gate. He pounded as well.

Oi you lot! Move your butts! I want to get home in time for tea!"

This is basically a drinkable ganache. Adjust the ratio of cream and milk to your taste.

Serves 4

3 oz. (85 g) bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
1 cup (250 ml) milk
2 Tbsp. (30 ml) sugar


Stir together the chocolate, cream, milk and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until chocolate is melted and mixture is hot, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk until frothy. Divide among four mugs.

Using a cinnamon stick as a stirrer/garnish adds a subtle hint of spice to the chocolate. Please though, do not add marshmallows or whipped cream. They will dilute the intense chocolate flavor of the brew.

My Dear Watson-

I hope this letter finds you well. I hope this letter finds you at all. The post appears to be functioning properly, but I am not sure precisely where I am. That I am in Margate, Kent, England in not in question. Exactly which Margate I happen to inhabit at the moment is open to debate. It’s far too complicated to go into in a letter. Perhaps that very clever German fellow could explain it. Suffice it to say I am alive and well, though I do miss you and Mrs Hudson. One never appreciates what one has until it is gone. Trite but true.

I have met a variety of interesting people and it does not appear I shall lack for work. Humanity is much the same wherever you go it seems. I am looking into taking a house with Admiral James Norrington. It is a pleasant place and Norrington is, as befits an Admiral in His Majesty’s Navy, a splendid fellow. The house is…not what I expected and we shall have a time figuring out what all the knob, dials, switches and buttons do. But I have faith that it the matter will resolve itself quite nicely to our satisfaction.

There is a theatre here, but no symphony, so I am on my own when it comes to music. I believe I shall miss that most of all. London, whatever it’s faults, has no equal when it comes to diversions and entertainments.

Take care of yourself Watson and don’t concern yourself with me. Give my regards to Mrs Watson.

Sherlock Holmes