Guide to Pamphlet and Letter of Enquiry Writing | The Dying Detective Prose

Writing (Pamphlet, Letter of Enquiry) - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Writing

Pamphlet

• A Pamphlet is a small booklet or leaflet containing information or arguments about a single subject.
• They are helpful in presenting information in a more attractive way and also easily accessible and economical to distribute.
• They are generally used for describing the product or instructions, commercial information, promotion of events or promoting tourism.

I. Create a pamphlet for the following:

1. Make a pamphlet on ‘Dengue Awareness’ (Focus on its causes, preventions, symptoms and precautions).

2. Make an attractive pamphlet for your school’s Fair organised for raising funds for (any) relief (Specify the date, time, types of stalls and the reasons for the fair).

3. Make a pamphlet on the latest gadgets (Mention the variety of models, uses, need and availability).

Letter of Enquiry

A letter of enquiry is a formal letter, written to get more details / information about something. In this letter the word limit should not exceed 200 words. It is used to enquire and get details to purchase an item, to know about a course for study, a place for a trip, etc It must include sender's details.

Model of Enquiry Letter

Vimala had purchased a laptop last year. She writes the following letter to the shop enquiring about the warranty coverage for the damage caused.

Mrs. Vimala

342, Annai Theresa street

Chennai-16.

4th August 2019

The Manager

Digital Electronics

Chennai-4

Subject: Enquiry about damage replacement–regarding.

Madam / Sir,

Last year, I purchased a new Lenovo laptop in your shop during the New year offer. Now, the laptop's display is damaged. So I need to know whether there is any free replacement coverage or warranty period that covers the cost of repair. Please, let me know the best way to address this issue.

Thank you,

Yours faithfully,

Vimala.M

J. Write a letter of enquiry for the following

1. You're a librarian in a newly established school. Write a letter to the book dealer inquiring about the list of newly arrived English children's story books and various subject books relevant to 10-14 age groups.

P. Leo,

The Librarian,

Govt. Hr. Sec. School,

Keeranur,

Pudukottai.

18.10.2019

The Manager,

Rasi Book Stall,

W.B.Road,

Tiruchirappalli-620002.

Madam / Sir,

Sub: List of books - request for - regarding.

I am Hariharan, the librarian of Government High School, Keeranur, Pudukottai. Our school management has decided to set up a library to improve reading habit among the students.

We intend to purchase English Story Books and other Subject Books for children in the age group of 10-14 years.

I request you to kindly send us a list of newly arrived Children’s English story books and other subject books. I want to know the cost of books to proceed further on purchasing the required books. Awaiting your immediate reply.

Thanking you.

Yours Sincerely,

P. Leo.

2. Venkat hails from a remote village of Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu who aspires to become an IAS officer. Currently, he is in class X. He notices an advertisement on free classes for the IAS aspirants by a trust in a news paper. He writes a letter to the coordinator of the trust inquiring for further details.

S. Venkat,

No: 12, Nesavalar Street,

Mettukuppam,

Perambalur.

18.03.2020

The Coordinator,

Way to Success Trust,

Mela Chinthamani,

Thiruchirappalli.

Sir,

Sub : Enquiry about joining IAS Academy - regarding.

Ref: Your advertisement in ‘The Hindu’ dated 16.03.2020

I am Venkat studying 10th Standard in Government High school, Mettukkuppa'm in Perambalur District.

I saw your advertisement in “The Hindu” dated 16.03.2020. I am very excited to know that you commence free classes for the IAS aspirants in May 2020.

I am hailing from a very poor family living in a remote village of Perambalur District. My parents are working as coolies. In spite of my poverty, I wish to become an IAS Officer and to serve our country.

I like to know the following details:

1. Am I eligible to join the academy after completing my 10th standard?

2. How can I get your application form?

3. What are the documents to be produced at the time of joining?

Please let me know the procedure and kindly reply.

Thanking you.

Your faithfully,

S. Venkat

3. Write a letter to the head of the BSNL office enquiring regarding the internet broadband scheme launched recently.

V. Seethalakshmi,

D/o. Venkatasamy,

No: 21, Nadu Theru,

Anjaneyar Koil Street,

Mannachanallur,

Trichy - District.

18.03.2019.

The General Manager,

Customer Care Centre/BSNL,

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited,

Srirangam,

Trichy - 620 006.

Sir,

Sub: Broadband connection - enquiry about - regarding.

Ref: Your advertisement in “The Hindu” daily, dated 16.03.2019

I have seen your advertisement in “The Hindu” daily dated 16.03.2019 regarding the new launch of broadband plans.

In your advertisement, you have mentioned the new launch of Fiber to Home(FTH) scheme with many offers to the Customer.

1 like to know the difference between ordinary Broadband connection & the newly launched Fiber to Home (FTH) services. What will be the initial deposit I have to pay against those schemes? Please send me the Tariff Plan for both the Broadband and FTH Schemes.

Awaiting your reply.

Thanks & Regards,

V. Seethalakshmi.

The Dying Detective Prose: Reading Comprehension Exercise

Reading - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Read the story carefully and answer the questions asked below

A Mystery Case

For a man of ease, John Mathew kept an arduous schedule. On Wednesdays, for example, he was awakened at 9.00 and served breakfast in bed by Emanuel, his chef. Next came a quick fitness session with Basky, his personal trainer. Then, at 10.30, John Mathew answered his mail, returned phone calls and rearranged his social calendar helped by Louise, his secretary. At noon, John Mathew drove his Jaguar to the station and took a commuter train into Guindy for his weekly lunch with Lalli and Lolly, his two oldest and dearest friends. Then, on to a little shopping. The 4:05 nonstop would bring him back to Tambaram. As John Mathew drove up to the house at 5:00, Basky would have already set up the massage table and warmed the scented oils for a soothing herbal wrap. It was a gruelling life but John seemed to thrive on it. On this Wednesday, however, there was an unexpected change of plans. Today John’s shopping errand involved taking his diamond bracelet into the jeweller’s for cleaning. He threw the expensive jewel into his purse and proceeded on to lunch.

As John waved his friends good- bye and exited the restaurant, he sensed he was being followed. The feeling continued until he reached Tenth Avenue. Then, as he joined the throng of shoppers, John felt a hug. Within a split-second, a man riding pillion on a bike rode past him, grabbing his purse. He couldn’t guess who the culprit was?

G. Match the following.

1. A man of ease	– Emanuel
2. John’s trainer	– Lalli and Lolly
3. Mathew’s secretary	– John Mathew
4. John’s chef	– Louise
5. Mathew’s friends	– Basky

Answer:

• 1. A man of ease - John Mathew
• 2. John’s trainer - Basky
• 3. Mathew’s secretary - Louise
• 4. John’s chef - Emanuel
• 5. Mathew’s friends - Lalli and Lolly

H. State whether the given statements are true or false. If false correct the statements.

1. Mathew is a very busy man. True
2. He woke up very late in the morning. True
3. He always had lunch with his family. False Correct Statement: He had his weekly lunch with his dearest friends Lalli and Lolly.
4. He exercised with Louise every day. False Correct Statement: He exercised with Basky, his personal trainer.
5. He preferred handling mail by himself. False Correct Statement: He answered his mail with the help of Louise, his secretary.

Speaking Skills: How to Write a Review | The Dying Detective

Speaking (Review) - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Speaking

REVIEW

A review is a critical assessment of a book, play, film, an event, etc. published in a newspaper or magazine.

Review process:

1. First, choose the piece/work (a book, movie, an article or event).
2. Read the selected piece (a book/an article) or watch it (a movie/an event) cautiously until you understand it thoroughly.
3. Focus on the main idea of the piece and its purpose.
4. Critically evaluate the work.
5. Make a note of all that is worthy of analysis.
6. Summarise it in a brief way.
7. Present it orally or in written form.

F. Exercise

1. Present the review of a movie that you have watched recently.

2.0

Review:

2.0 is one of the best movies in recent times. The movie is a science fiction that takes the commercial route to entertain us. South Indian films and filmmakers seem to have a handle on out- of-the-box ideas for cinema. Director Shankar has experimented with such high-concept movies like Robot (2010, Tamil title Enthiran) and I (2015) before, too.

Story: Dr Vaseegaran (Rajinikanth) and his android assistant Nila (Amy Jackson) are called in for help after mobiles start mysteriously flying out of the hands of people in Chennai. Vaseegaran summons his trusted robot Chitti (Rajinikanth) to ward off the bird-shaped supernatural powers of Pakshirajan (Akshay Kumar). Many birds die because of raditions from mobile phones. Pakshirajan, being a bird lover and ornithologist was hurt seriously and hangs himself in a telephone tower. The Aura of Pakshi and died birds form the supernatural power and steel the mobile phones. Chitti destroys the Pakshirajan and is appreciated by everyone. It would be nice if the siory ends here. Bui it starts again as Pakshirajan gets back his power. This time Chitti cannot destroy it as Pakshi hurts Dr Vaseegaran whenever Chitti makes an attack. With the comeback of Chitti 2.0 (Child with a red chip) and with the help of Kutti(Microbot - Chitti V 3.0), Pakshi is destroyed. And the movie ends with a duet song for Chitti and Nila - endhira logathu sundariye song.

Shankar’s screenplay gives fans of the superstar plenty of moments to cheer for, especially with the fact that there are not one or two, but three iterations of his robotic character Chitti. Rajinikanth’s and Akshay Kumar’s performance dominates the narrative. The presence of these two superstars is one of the main reasons why 2.0 feels like a grand, big-ticket movie. The makeup and costumes are the highlights of the movie, too.

There are several moments in the movie that are quite memorable too. The sight of mobiles covering up an entire road, a forest and forming the giant eagle, are most certainly ‘wow’ worthy. But the scientific explanations provided for telekinetic control of mobile phones and the antagonist’s supernatural abilities aren't all that convincing. Nevertheless, this is a Rajinikanth movie and questioning cinematic liberty and logic-defying creativity is unwarranted

2. Give the review of a book that has interested you a lot.

MAPPING THE WORLD

Review:

The book Mapping the World by Ralph E. Ehrenberg is published by National Geographic as an illustrated history of Cartography. Ralph E. Ehrenberg has lectured and consulted widely on geographic resources, the history of cartography and management of cartographic collections.

With running commentary by Ralph E. Ehrenberg, this book tells a fascinating story of geographic discovery, scientific invention, and the technique -of mapmaking. Mapping the World provides amazing details on map. The book deals with- broad historical and cultural range, unmatched variety of maps from the finest map collections in the world more than one hundred illustrations and a fresh and authoritative perspective on the history of cartography. Mapping the World talks about the uses of maps as well as how to differentiate between the type Of map projection and type of map.

Every day people around the world use maps and get useful information. We could make a colourful map that shows the amount of pollution in different areas, or it could be a population map, or it could even be a map that shows the 50 states of the USA, their capitals and borders! Our last step in this amazing excursion is the near future, where we see some hypothetical solutions as to what maps will be used for. Currently, we are working on better virtual map technology

In the early 1900s, people had to lug a lot of maps around to find their way from place to place, or just keep asking for directions. Now, scientists have been able to put maps on phones by using Global Positioning System (GPS). It is amazing how much maps have changed technology and the world in this century. “Mapping the world” is a treasure box filled with the gems of cartography. This book will be very useful for the people who want to be cartographers.

3. Review an event which your school has hosted recently.

Review an event which your school has hosted recently

I am Dinesh of Govt Hr Sec School, Thirupur. Recently our school hosted a colorful Cultural Fest. This event was held in the auditorium of our school. In this mega event, many schools from our city took part. The grand show commenced with Thamizh Thai Vazhthu hailing our mother tongue.

We invited our District Collector as the Chief Guest. There was a colourful welcome followed by lighting of the lamp. It was followed by a welcome speech given by the Headmaster of our school. Then there was bouquet presentation to the invited guests and the grand event began. It was a truly mesmerizing show as the teams from various schools presented many programmes such as singing, classical and disco dancing, poetry recitation, skits, mimicry and mono acting shows. It was a colourful feast to the eyes and ears. Everyone sat spellbound. The audience witnessed a colourful array of dances and musical acts. The school choir enthralled the audience with the soulful rendition of music. Students from our school touched every heart and filled everyone present with a sense of national pride with Bharathiyar songs. The highlight of the day was the play 'Faith Conquers All' enacted by Girls Hr Sec School. Students performed mime based on themes such as 'save trees' and 'together we make a better tomorrow’.

The Chief Guest praised the entire event a lot and applauded the efforts of students and teachers. He guided the students with his inspirational words to become good citizens. Our Principal presented the annual report highlighting the achievements of the school and the students. Meritorious students in academics and extra-curricular activities were felicitated. Then the competition results were announced. The team from our school bagged the first prize and all of us complimented one another. It was followed by a formal vote of thanks and the event concluded.

Tags: The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose , 10th English: UNIT 7 : Prose: The Dying Detective

Study Material, Lecturing Notes, Assignment, Reference, Wiki description explanation, brief detail

10th English: UNIT 7 : Prose: The Dying Detective : Speaking (Review) | The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Listening Skills Exercise: The Dying Detective by Arthur Conan Doyle

Listening - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Listening Exercise

E. Listen to the story and answer the questions given below

1. 1. Where does this story take place?

   • a. in a bakery
   • b. at the police station
   • c. in Ms. Gervis' house
   • d. in Ms. Gervis' apartment

2. 2. Near the beginning of the story, “Ms. Gervis’ eyes are full of tears. Her hands are shaking.” How does Ms. Gervis probably feel?

   • a. She is upset.
   • b. She is tired.
   • c. She is hungry.
   • d. She is confused.

3. 3. What makes the detective sure that the robber did not come through the windows?

   • a. The windows are locked.
   • b. The windows face the police station.
   • c. The windows have not been used in months.
   • d. The windows are too small for a person to fit through.

4. 4. What else was stolen from the apartment?

   • a. crystal
   • b. jewelry
   • c. money
   • d. nothing

5. 5. "And the robber definitely did not use the front door." Which is the best way to rewrite this sentence?

   • a. "And the robber may not have used the front door."
   • b. "And the robber probably did not use the front door."
   • c. "And the robber was not able to use the front door."
   • d. "And the robber certainly did not use the front door."

6. 6. What does Ms. Gervis do with her cakes?

   • a. She eats them.
   • b. She sells them.
   • c. She hides them.
   • d. She gives them away.

7. 7. What does the detective seem to think will happen if he solves the mystery?

   • a. Ms. Gervis will start baking cakes again
   • b. Ms. Gervis will bake him extra cakes
   • c. Ms. Gervis will give him her secret recipe
   • d. Ms. Gervis will give him money and jewels

8. 8. Do you like mysteries? What is your favorite kind of story? Explain.

   There’s always room for a short story that can transport people to another time and place.

   - J.K Rowling

   Yes, I like mysteries. My favourite kind of story is a fairy tale. It is a folklore genre. That takes the form of a short story. In a fairy tale, we can read fictional characters like dwarfs, dragons, fairies, giants, mermaids, talking animals, unicorns and witches. These features add colour to the story and triggered the children’s imagination. Fantasies used in fairy tales create interest in the readers. The Walt Disney company has had a significant impact on the evolution of fairy tale film. Fairy tales like Sleeping beauty, Snow White and Seven Dwarfs, Cindrella, Beauty and the Beast are favourite stories for ever. Fairy tales teach children how to deal with certain social situations and help them to find their place in society.

   “If you want your children to be more intelligent, make them read more fairy tales”

   - Albert Einstein.

Vocabulary Exercises: Homophones and Confused Words from 'The Dying Detective'

Vocabulary - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Vocabulary

Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. The text has many homophones such as : see-sea, hear-here, knew-new.

C. Complete the following sentences by choosing the correct options given.

1. Niteesh bought a new (knew/new) cricket bat.
2. The shepherd heard (herd/heard) the cry of his sheep.
3. Lakshmi completed her baking course (course/coarse) successfully.
4. Priya has broken her fore (four/fore) limbs.
5. Leaders of the world must work towards the peace (peace/piece) of human race.

Use the given examples and make sentences of your own.

Commonly confused words

English has a lot of commonly confused words. They either look alike or look and sound alike, but have completely different meanings and usage. Here are some examples from the text.

brought (v) - past participle of bring. E.g. Anitha had brought a book from the library.

Buy bestselling books online

bought (v) - past participle of buy. E.g. Lalitha had bought a new dress last week.

affect (v) - to have an effect on. E.g. The pet’s death affected his master.

effect (n) - anything brought about by a cause or agent; result. E.g. Both El Nino and La Nina are opposite effects of the same phenomenon.

D. Complete the tabular column by finding the meaning of both the words given in the boxes. Use them in sentences of your own.

lost (v) - unable to be found - I have lost my ticket. / She lost her mother.

last(adj) - coming at the end/final - At the last moment, he changed his mind.

paused (v) - stopped for a short time - She paused to get her breath back and then carried on jogging.

passed (v) - approved - The Assembly passed the money bill.

pitcher (n) - a round container for liquid - He poured water into the pitcher / He brought a pitcher of water.

picture (n) - a drawing or painting - Raja painted a picture of my dog.

The Dying Detective Q&A | Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose Analysis and Essay

Answer the questions - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

A. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences.

1. Who was Mrs. Hudson? Why was she worried?

Mrs. Hudson was the landlady of Sherlock Holmes. She was worried about his illness because Holmes did not take food or drink for three days.

2. Why didn’t Holmes let Watson examine him?

Holmes pretended that he didn’t have confidence in Dr. Watson. So he didn’t let Watson examine him. (or) Holmes thought that Watson was ignorant of the deadly disease. So he didn’t let Watson examine him.

3. Why did Holmes warn Watson against touching his things? What was Watson’s reaction?

Holmes did not like anyone touching his things. So he warned Watson against touching his things. Eventually, Watson sat in silent dejection.

4. What did Watson find on the table near the mantlepiece?

Watson found a small black and white ivory box with a sliding lid on the table near the mantlepiece.

5. Who is Mr. Culverton Smith?

Mr. Culverton Smith is a planter. He lives in Sumatra island. He is the culprit. He killed his nephew Victor Savage, in order to retain the property.

6. What did Holmes ask Watson to do before leaving his room?

Holmes asked Watson to place some letters and paper on the table within his reach. He asked to place the ivory box and slide the lid a bit with tongs. He asked Watson to light the lamp and leave it half on.

7. What instructions did Holmes give Watson to get Mr. Smith?

Holmes asked Watson to tell Smith that Holmes was dying and to persuade Smith to come. Watson should return before the arrival of Smith.

8. Why did Holmes want Smith to treat him?

Holmes thought that Smith was the only man in London who knew well about the deadly disease. So he wanted Smith to treat him.

9. According to Smith how did Holmes get the disease?

Smith thought that Holmes got the contagious disease by touching the poisoned sharp spring, kept inside the ivory box which he had sent to Holmes by post.

10. Who arrested Smith? What were the charges against him?

Inspector Morton arrested Smith. He arrested Smith on the charges of murdering his nephew, Victor Savage and his attempt to kill Holmes in the same way.

B. Answer the following questions in a paragraph of about 100-150 words.

1. How did Holmes trap Mr. Culverton Smith to confess the murder?

2. How did Watson help his friend to arrest the criminal?

Prose : The Dying Detective

Author : Arthur Conan Doyle

Theme : Punishment, may be delayed but sure

Characters : Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, Mr. Culverton Smith, Inspector-Morton of Scotland Yard, landlady-Mrs. Hudson

Outline : Sherlock Holmes - famous detective - London - Dr.Watson - friend - pretended as if infected with deadly disease - to get Smith - for treating illness - wanted Smith’s confession - Inspector Morton - arrested Smith for his crime.

Sherlock Holmes was a famous detective in London. Dr. Watson, friend and assistant of Holmes was the narrator of this story. Once, Holmes pretended as if he were infected with a deadly disease. He didn’t take food or drink for three days. So he was weak. Dr. Watson wanted to treat Holmes. But Holmes didn’t want Watson to know that he was not ill. He sent Watson to get Culverton Smith for treating his illness. Watson had to persuade Smith to come and meet Holmes. Mr. Culverton Smith was a planter. He was the culprit, who had killed his nephew Victor Savage to retain the property. To capture Smith, Holmes pretended to be ill. While Holmes and Smith were discussing, Smith confessed that he had killed his nephew and also sent an infected ivory box to kill Holmes in the same way. Holmes asked Smith to turn up the gas light. It was a signal for Inspector Morton who was waiting in the next room with Dr. Watson. Morton came in and arrested Smith for his crime.

ESSAY

• Introduction
• Dying detective -- Holmes
• Instructions given to Watson
• Culverton Smith-the villain
• Holmes’ deception
• Conclusion

Introduction:

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a British writer, best known for his fictional detective character, Sherlock Holmes. This story is narrated by the character, Dr. Watson, a friend of Holmes.

Dying detective -- Holmes:

Sherlock Holmes was a famous detective in London. Dr. Watson was his friend. Once, Holmes pretended as if he were infected with Tarpaunli fever or black Formosa plague, a deadly disease from Sumatra. He didn’t take food or drink for three days. So he was listless. Dr. Watson wanted to treat his illness. But Holmes didn’t want Watson to know that he was not ill. He pretended to be ill just to get Smith there.

Instructions given to Watson:

He sent Watson to get Culverton Smith for treating his illness. Holmes instructed Watson to tell Smith exactly how he was suffering from the illness. Watson had to persuade Smith to come and meet Holmes.

Culverton Smith-the villain:

Mr. Culverton Smith was a planter from Sumatra. He was the culprit. He had killed his nephew Victor Savage in order to usurp the property. He came to visit London in order to know the consequences of his plot of killing Holmes. But Holmes wanted Smith’s confession for his crime of murdering his nephew Victor. In order to capture Smith, Holmes pretended to be ill.

Holmes’ deception:

While Holmes and Smith were discussing, Watson overheard them from the next room. As they were discussing, Smith confessed that he had killed his nephew, Victor and also sent an infected ivory box to kill Holmes in the same way. Holmes asked Smith to turn up the gas light which was a signal for Inspector Morton. Inspector Morton came in and arrested Smith for his crime.

Conclusion:

This mystery is also called “The Adventure of the Dying Detective.” Arthur Conan Doyle created these two characters Sherlock Holmes and Watson as if they were real ones.

Moral: “Don't believe everything you see”

Glossary for 'The Dying Detective' by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose Analysis

Glossary - The Dying Detective | by Arthur Conan Doyle | Prose

Vocabulary

gaunt (adj.) - lean, especially because of suffering, hunger or age.

twitched (v) - give short, sudden jerking movements.

contagious (adj.) - spreading of a disease from one person to another by direct contact

groan (v) - make a deep inarticulate sound conveying pain or despair.

plague (n) - a contagious bacterial disease characterized by fever .

bolted (v) - closed the door with a bar that slides into a socket.

mantle piece (n) - a structure of wood or marble above or around the fireplace.

half-crown (n) - a former British coin equal to two shillings and sixpence (12 1/2p).

tongs (n) - a device used for picking up objects consisting of two long pieces free at one end and pressed together at the other end.

delirious (adj.) - disturbed state of mind characterized by restlessness.

frail (adj.) - weak and delicate.

startled (v) - felt sudden shock or alarm.

scuffle (v) - to have a sudden short fight

The Dying Detective by Arthur Conan Doyle: A Sherlock Holmes Story Analysis

The Dying Detective

by Arthur Conan Doyle

The detective Sherlock Holmes was seriously ill. He wanted to meet his assistant Watson. He asks his landlady to get him. Watson was surprised to see the condition of his master. Was Watson able to save his master? Read on to know more about the underlying story behind Holmes’ sickness.

Mrs. Hudson, the landlady of Sherlock Holmes, came to me and said, “Mr. Holmes is dying, Mr. Watson. For three days he has been sinking, and I doubt if he will last another day. He would not let me get a doctor. I told him I could not stand it anymore and would get a doctor.” He replied, “Let it be Watson then.”

I was horrified for I had not heard about his illness before. I rushed for my hat and coat. As we drove back, I asked her about the details.

“There is little I can tell you, sir. He has been working on a case down at Rotherhithe, near the river, and has brought this illness back with him. He took to bed on Wednesday afternoon and has never moved since. For three days neither food nor drink has passed his lips.” “Why did you not call a doctor?” I asked.

“He wouldn’t have it, sir. I didn’t dare to disobey him.”

a. How did Watson feel when he heard of Holmes illness?

b. Why didn’t the landlady call the doctor?

He was indeed a sad sight. In the dim light of a foggy November day, the sick-room was a gloomy spot, but it was the gaunt face staring form the bed that brought chill to my heart. His eyes had the brightness of fever, his cheeks were flushed, and his hand twitched all the time. He lay listless.

“My dear fellow!” I cried approaching him.

“Stand back! Stand right back!” he cried.

“But why? I want to help you,” I said.

“Certainly, Watson, but it is for your own sake.”

“For my sake?” I was surprised.

“I know what is the matter with me. It is the disease from Sumatra. It is deadly and contagious, Watson – that’s it, by touch.”

“Good heavens, Holmes! Do you think this can stop me?” I said advancing towards him.

“If you will stand there, I will talk. If you don’t you must leave the room,” said my master.

I have always given in to Holmes’ wishes. But now my feelings as a doctor were aroused. I was at least his master in the sick-room.

“Holmes,” I said, “you are not yourself whether you like it or not. I will examine your symptoms and treat you.”

“If I am to have a doctor,” said he, “let me at least have someone in whom I have confidence.”

“Then you have none in me?”

“In your friendship, certainly. But facts are facts, Watson. You are a general practitioner, not a specialist of this disease.”

“If so, let me bring Sir Japer Meek or Penrose Fisher, or any other best man in London.”

“How ignorant you are! Watson!” he said with a groan.

“What do you know about Tarpaunli fever or the black Formosa plague?”

“I have never heard of them,” I admitted.

c. What was the condition of Holmes when Watson saw him?

d. According to Holmes what was the disease he was suffering from?

“There are many problems of the disease in the East. I have learnt that much during my recent researches. And during this course I caught this illness,” he said.

“I will bring Dr. Ainstree then,” I said going towards the door. Never have I had such a shock when the dying man bolted the door and locked it, shouted in an uncontrolled way and in a moment he was back in his bed.

“You won’t have the key by force from me Watson. Be here till 6 o’clock. It is four now”

“This is madness, Holmes,” I said.

“Only two hours, Watson. Then you can get a doctor of my choice. You can read some books, over there. At six we will talk again.”

Unable to settle down to reading, I walked slowly round and round, looking at the pictures. Finally I came to the mantel piece, where among other things I saw a small black and white ivory box with sliding lid. As I held it in my hand to examine it, I heard a dreadful cry. “Put it down! Down at once, Watson,” he said, “I hate to have my things touched. Sit down man, and let me have my rest!”

Then I sat in silent dejection until the stipulated time had passed.

“Now Watson,” he said, “Have you any change?”

“Yes,” I replied.

“How many half-crowns? Put them in your watch – pocket. And all the rest in your trouser pocket. You will light the gas lamp, but it must be half on. You will have the kindness to place some letters and paper on the table within my reach. Now place the ivory box on the table within my reach. Slide the lid a bit with tongs. Put the tongs on the table. Good! Now you can go and fetch Mr. Culverton Smith, of 13 Lower Burke Street’’.

I was hesitant to leave him now. He was delirious.

“I have never heard of the name,’’ I said.

“Well, he is the man who has the knowledge of this disease but he is not a medical man. He is a planter. He lives in Sumatra, now visiting London. I didn’t want you to go before six, because you wouldn’t have found him in his study. I hope you will be able to persuade him to come. You will tell him exactly how you have left me.” He said, “You must tell him that I’m dying – plead with him, Watson.”

“I’ll bring him in a cab,’’ I said.

“No. You will persuade him to come and return before him. Make any excuse. Remember this, Watson.”

I saw Mrs. Hudson was waiting outside, trembling and crying. Below, as I waited for the cab, I met Inspector Morton of the Scotland Yard. He was not in his uniform.

“How is he?” asked Inspector Morton.

“He is very ill,” I answered.

I reached Mr. Culverton Smith’s house. The butler appeared at the doorway. Through the half -open door I heard a man’s voice telling the butler, “I am not at home, say so.” I pushed past the butler and entered the room. I saw a frail man with bald head sitting. “I am sorry,” I said, “but the matter cannot be delayed. Mr. Sherlock Holmes………….”

The mere mention of his name had a different effect on the man.

“Have you come from Holmes? How is he?” he asked.

“He is very ill. That is why I have come. Mr. Holmes has a high opinion of you and thought you are the only man in London who can help him.”

The little man was startled.

“Why?” he asked.

“Because of your knowledge of the Eastern diseases,” I replied.

“How did he get it?” he asked.

I told him everything. He smiled and agreed to come. Pretending that I had some other appointment. I left him. With a sinking heart I reached Holmes’ room. I told him that Mr. Smith was coming.

“Well done! Watson!” he said. “You have done everything that a good friend could do. Now you disappear to the next room. And don’t speak, or come here.”

e. Who did Watson see when he entered the room?

f. What were the instructions given by Holmes to Watson?

I heard the footsteps. I heard a voice say, “Holmes! Holmes! Can you hear me?”

“Is that you Mr. Smith?” Holmes whispered. “You know what is wrong with me. You are the only one in London who can cure me.”

“Do you know the symptoms?” asked Smith.

“Only too well, Mr. Smith,” and he described the symptoms.

“They are the same, Holmes,” Smith said, “Poor Victor was a dead man on the fourth day -a strong and healthy young man. What a coincidence indeed!”

“I know that you did it,” said Holmes.

“Well, you can’t prove it.”

“Give me water, please,” Holmes groaned.

“Here.” I heard Smith’s voice.

“Cure me, please. Well, about Victor Savage’s death. You did it. I’ll forget everything, but cure me. I’ll forget about it.”

“You can forget or remember, just as you like. It doesn’t matter to me how my nephew died. Watson said you got it from the Chinese sailors. Could there be any other reason?”

“I can’t think. My mind is gone, help me,” pleaded Holmes.

“Did anything come by post? A box by chance? On Wednesday?”

“Yes I opened it and there was a sharp spring inside it. A joke perhaps. It drew blood,” said Holmes.

“No, it was not a joke, you fool, you’ve got it. Who asked you to cross my path? You knew too much about Victor’s death. Your end is near, Holmes. I’ll carry this box in my pocket. The last piece of evidence!”

“Turn up the gas, Smith,” said Holmes in his natural voice.

“Yes I will, so that I can see you better.” There was silence. Then I heard Smith say, “What’s all this?”

“Successful acting,” said Holmes, “for three days I didn’t taste anything – neither food nor drink.”

g. Why did Holmes plead with Smith?

h. Who was responsible for Victor Savage’s death? What was the evidence for it?

There were footsteps outside. The door opened and I heard Inspector Morton’s voice. “I arrest you on charge of murder,” he said.

“If so, let me bring Sir Jaspet Meek or Penrose fisher, or Holmes”.

There was a sudden rush and scuffle, followed by the clash of iron and sudden cry of pain. There was a click of handcuffs. Holmes asked me to come in.

“Sorry, Watson, I was rude to you. I undermined your capability as a doctor. It was just to get Smith here. And I didn’t want you to know that I was not ill.”

“But your appearance--?” I said.

“Three days, fasting and the make-up did the trick.”

“The coins?”

“Oh! That was only to prove that I was delirious,” he laughed. “I need to eat now, Watson. Mr. Smith killed his nephew and he wanted to kill me the same way to avoid imprisonment. I need to eat now, Watson. I think that something nutritious at Simpsons’ would not be out of place. And thank you, Watson,” he said.

i. What explanation did Holmes give for speaking rudely to Watson?

j. How was Holmes able to look sick?

Vocabulary from the Story

• gaunt: Lean and haggard, especially because of suffering, hunger, or age.
• twitched: A short, sudden jerking or convulsive movement.
• contagious: A disease spread from one person to another by direct or indirect contact.
• groan: A deep, inarticulate sound in response to pain or despair.
• plague: A contagious bacterial disease characterized by fever and delirium.
• bolted: To move or run away suddenly.
• mantel piece: A structure of wood, marble, or stone above and around a fireplace.
• half-crowns: A former British coin equal to two shillings and sixpence.
• tongs: An instrument with two movable arms joined at one end, for picking up things.
• delirious: An acutely disturbed state of mind resulting from illness or intoxication.
• frail: (Of a person) weak and delicate.
• startled: Feeling or showing sudden shock or alarm.
• scuffle: A short, confused fight or struggle at close quarters.

About the Author

Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was a British writer best known for his detective fiction featuring the character of Sherlock Holmes, which are generally considered milestones in the field of crime fiction. Doyle wrote forty-six short stories featuring the famous detective. The story is narrated by the character, Dr.Watson. Originally a physician, in 1887 he published A Study in Scarlet, the first of four novels about Holmes and Dr. Watson. In addition, Doyle wrote over fifty short stories featuring the famous detective. The Sherlock Holmes stories are generally considered milestones in the field of fiction. His notable works include Stories of Sherlock Holmes and The Lost World.