 A case of Identity
 Synopsis
Young MARY SUTHERLAND asks Holmes to find her missing fiancé – against the wishes of her stepfather, MR WINDIBANK. Mary has her own income, left to her by an uncle, which is used by her mother and stepfather while she lives at home. However, as soon as she is married Mary’s husband will have control of all her money.
As he doesn’t want to lose Mary’s money, Mr. Windibank never lets her go anywhere, which has given her little chance to meet men. However, on the day of the gasfitters’ ball, he went away to France on business. At the ball, Mary met Mr Hosmer Angel, a gentle-voiced man who always wore tinted glasses. Having made Mary promise on the Bible to be true to him whatever happened, Angel suddenly disappeared on their wedding-day.
Holmes correctly deduces that “Angel” was Windibank in disguise – a plan to prevent Mary marrying. Holmes confronts Windibank, who sneers at him, pointing out that he hasn’t broken the law. Holmes decides not to tell Mary, explaining that it’s dangerous to snatch an illusion from a woman.
Comments
The solution to poor Mary’s problem is obvious to today’s audience, but the neatness and humour of the story make it great fun. |
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