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The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, Chapter 12 summary

Chapter 12 of 12 · 38 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 12, Sherlock Holmes investigates Violet Hunter’s strange employment and discovers that her employer uses her resemblance to his imprisoned daughter to deceive a suitor. The daughter escapes with help from the servants, her father suffers a savage dog attack, and the mystery exposes his attempt to retain control of her money.

What happens

  1. Violet Hunter accepts generous pay despite demands that she cut her hair, wear a particular dress, and obey unusual instructions.
  2. At the Copper Beeches, she discovers matching hair, a watcher outside, and a guarded room; Rucastle threatens her when she investigates.
  3. Holmes concludes that Hunter impersonates Alice Rucastle to discourage Alice’s suitor, and arranges to enter the house.
  4. Holmes and Watson find the room empty, and Rucastle releases the mastiff, which attacks him before Watson shoots it.
  5. Mrs. Toller explains that Alice’s father imprisons her over money, while Mr. Fowler arranges her escape with the servants’ help.
  6. Alice marries Fowler, Rucastle survives under his wife’s care, and Hunter becomes the head of a school.

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In this chapter

Sherlock HolmesDr. WatsonTheme: Deceptive appearances

Quick check

Why does Rucastle want Alice to sign a paper?

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