Sherlock Holmes: The Shadow From Beyond by Erik Branz Read Free Book Online Page B

garnered will shed new light on our investigation.”
    Watson put down his empty cup. “No refill then?”
     
     

Chapter 11

    The Museum
     
     
    Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson encountered Mr. Heath Carter, administrator of the fabulous Royal British Museum, in his office on the premises of that great sprawling complex. The tall thin man with immaculately groomed white hair and handlebar moustache rose from behind his great oak desk and sauntered over to greet them, hand extended.
    “Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson please come in. It is more than a pleasure to see you both again.” he spoke with the charming and sophisticated manner his position demanded. “If I recall correctly it was about two years ago when we last had the opportunity to meet, you needed some assistance with the Case of the Serrated Dagger, as I think Doctor Watson later penned its title in The Strand. How may I lend my services to you on this occasion? More foul play?”
     
    The detective accepted the handshake with a smile. “Well met once again Mr. Carter, and your recollection is close, as it has been exactly one year and eleven months since our last meeting, hopefully you have passed that time well.” Holmes stated politely before moving on to the subject at hand. “It has come to our attention that the late Professor Thomas Harper, ex of the University of London, had been visiting your museum on a regular basis over the last few weeks. I am curious as to what he was referencing during this period as it may help in solving a murder.”
    “The late Professor Harper?” The shocked Mr. Carter gasped. “He has passed from this Earth? But when? How? Not murdered I hope! I saw him just the other day...”
    “A few nights ago it seems, and yes it seems that murder has once again reared its ugly head in this matter, but by whom and how are the reasons for our visit.” eluded Holmes.
    “Of course. Of course,” a still shaken Mr. Carter mumbled as he composed himself. “I will call one of our custodians, Douglas Wilbey, to assist you. He had been assigned to aid Professor Harper with his research at the museum and can answer any questions you may have in reference. If I can help in any way please do not hesitate to ask.” He then led them to the service desk. “Good day to you Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson, and good luck.”
     
    Soon afterwards both followed in the brisk stead of the relatively young custodian Wilbey as he guided them through the vast halls of the museum and its impressive exhibits.
    Huge dinosaurs leered down at them through the empty sockets of boney skulls, their ancient fossilized forms arranged in battles of epic survival. The grimaced faces of waxen caveman were rendered with fine detail, as they struggled with primitive spear and axe alone to fend off an attacking saber toothed tiger, also beautifully recreated. The giant skeletal remains of a blue whale adorned the entire roof of the next hall, its ribcage hanging delicately far above them. Further on, their eyes marveled at the shimmering brilliance of the crystals and gems compromising the massive geologic collection.
    They explored the secrets of mysterious Egypt through hundreds of treasured relics, and amazed at the endless rows of armor and gleaming blades of Roman weaponry. On and on it seemed to go, the variety and splendor of the museum’s contents enough to distract even the great Sherlock Holmes for a few moments.
    “We must be nearby now Holmes.” Watson stated as they passed through the exhibit of Aztec artifacts. “Harper was into this type of relic hunting wasn’t he? These pagan religions and the like?” The doctor turned to their custodian guide and asked jokingly “What kind of tribal mask or fertility sculpture was he studying of late?”
    “Neither of the above actually.” he promptly replied. “Recently the professor was thoroughly engrossed in the analysis of a single book. He had replaced his interest in ancient objects with those of ancient