# XIII: Fixing the Nets explained — The Hound of the Baskervilles

> Chapter companion for The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle.

## What happens

Holmes reveals himself to Sir Henry, who is relieved but puzzled by Holmes's sudden appearance without luggage. After explaining recent events, Holmes devises a plan to deceive Stapleton into thinking he and Watson have left for London, while secretly preparing to trap the murderer. He confronts Mrs. Laura Lyons, revealing that Stapleton is already married, and secures her cooperation. The chapter ends with Holmes receiving a telegram from Lestrade, signaling the final moves in the case.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Disguise

Holmes orchestrates a false departure to London to deceive Stapleton, while Stapleton has deceived Mrs. Lyons about his marital status.

### Loyalty and Friendship

Sir Henry agrees to follow Holmes's instructions despite his hurt feelings, demonstrating trust and loyalty.

## Character check-ins

### Sherlock Holmes

Reveals himself to Sir Henry, devises a deceptive plan, and confronts Mrs. Laura Lyons.

### Dr. Watson

Assists Holmes in explaining events to Sir Henry and accompanies him on the trip to London.

### Sir Henry Baskerville

Initially hurt by Holmes's apparent departure but agrees to follow instructions, including walking home across the moor.

### Mrs. Laura Lyons

Confronted by Holmes, she learns Stapleton is married and agrees to reveal the truth about the letter.

### Barrymore

Informed of Selden's death; feels relief but his wife weeps.

### Mrs. Barrymore

Weeps bitterly upon learning of Selden's death.

### Cartwright

Sent to London to send a telegram and check for messages.

### Lestrade

Telegrams Holmes that he is coming down with a warrant.

## Key lines

> Evil indeed is the man who has not one woman to mourn him.

A truly wicked person is one whom no woman grieves for.

_Reflects on Selden's death and Mrs. Barrymore's sorrow._

> I think I will muzzle him and chain him all right if you will give me your help.

I believe I can capture and restrain the hound with your assistance.

_Holmes responds to Sir Henry's challenge about the hound._

> Already I seemed to see our nets drawing closer around that lean-jawed pike.

I felt we were closing in on Stapleton, like a fish in a net.

_Watson's metaphor for the trap closing on Stapleton._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hound_of_the_baskervilles/chapters/xiii-fixing-the-nets
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hound_of_the_baskervilles
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_hound_of_the_baskervilles/chapters