The speckled band - summary

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The speckled band

At the very beginning of the story, Dr. Watson introduces the case. He explains that he has only just been able to release details of this case because of the 'untimely death' of a lady to whom he vowed to keep the details secret.

"It is perhaps as well that the facts should now come to light, for I have reason to know that there are widespread rumours as to the death of Dr. Grimesby Roylott which tends to make the matter even more terrible than the truth."

Watson's introduction fills the reader with anticipation. His suggestion of the secrecy surrounding the case makes it seem more intriguing and his suggestion that the truth of it is in someway 'terrible' creates suspense as the reader awaits the descriptions of these so called terrors. Doyle has already managed to grip the reader, very subtly through giving the least amount of information possible. Little light is shed on the plot, at this point but the reader undoubtedly has their own ideas surrounding the contents of this case. This most probably was one of the tools many of the writers used at the time. As reading was their biggest entertainment, gripping the reader at once had to have been very important for the success of the story.

At the beginning of the adventure Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes are woken up at very early hours of the morning. The dramatic arrival of the client immediately introduces an element of excitement and anticipation into the story and Holmes emphasizes this when he reminds us of how unusual it is for a lady to be out on her own at this hour. The young lady is introduced to be seemingly fearful, distressed. When asked by Sherlock if she desired a cup of tea as she was shivering, she replied that it was not the cold making her shiver.

"…her face all drawn and grey, with restless, frightened eyes, like those of some hunted animal. Her features were those of a woman of thirty, but her hair was shot with premature grey, and her expression was weary and haggard."

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The simile comparing the woman to a 'hunted animal' is very effective in building suspense. She is immediately portrayed as a vulnerable and sympathetic victim. It makes readers aware that she is in danger from some ruthless 'hunter', and their possible concern for her welfare creates tension and suspense in the story.

The lady introduces herself as Helen Stoner and explains about her family history, and the estate owned by their family. She talks about, her step father’s family and starts to describe him and his character.

‘In a fit of anger ….he beat his native butler to ...

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