The Return of Sherlock Holmes · Chapter
The Adventure of the Empty House explained
Holmes reveals to Watson that he survived the Reichenbach Fall by using baritsu to escape Moriarty, then hid for three years to allow his enemies to expose themselves.
What happens
Holmes reveals to Watson that he survived the Reichenbach Fall by using baritsu to escape Moriarty, then hid for three years to allow his enemies to expose themselves. He returns to London and sets a trap using a wax bust of himself in Baker Street to lure Colonel Sebastian Moran, Moriarty's chief of staff, who attempts to assassinate him with an airgun. Holmes and Watson capture Moran, ending the threat.
Themes in this chapter
Deduction and Rationality
Holmes's meticulous planning and logical deduction allow him to predict Moran's actions and set a successful trap.
Secrecy and the Past
Holmes's three-year concealment of his survival and the hidden history of Colonel Moran's criminal career are central to the plot.
Danger and Adventure
The stakeout, the assassination attempt with an airgun, and the capture of a dangerous criminal create a tense, adventurous atmosphere.
Friendship and Loyalty
Watson's unwavering loyalty and readiness to assist Holmes despite the danger underscore their enduring friendship.
Characters to notice
- Sherlock Holmes
Returns from the dead, explains his survival at Reichenbach, and orchestrates the capture of Colonel Moran.
- Dr. Watson
Reunites with Holmes, assists in the stakeout at Camden House, and learns the truth about Holmes's survival.
- Colonel Sebastian Moran
The second most dangerous man in London, Moriarty's chief of staff, attempts to kill Holmes with an airgun and is captured.
- Professor Moriarty
Mentioned as Holmes's adversary who died at Reichenbach Fall; his gang continues to threaten Holmes.
- Mrs. Hudson
Assists Holmes by arranging the wax bust and retrieving the bullet after the assassination attempt.
Key passages
“I had no serious difficulty in getting out of it, for the very simple reason that I never was in it.”
Holmes explains that he never actually fell into the Reichenbach chasm, making his escape straightforward.
Holmes reveals the truth about his survival to Watson.
“It is a bust in wax. The rest I arranged myself during my visit to Baker Street this afternoon.”
Holmes describes the wax bust he placed in his window as a decoy to attract his enemies.
Holmes explains the setup of the trap in Baker Street.
“The second most dangerous man in London.”
Holmes identifies Colonel Moran as the second most dangerous criminal in London, after Moriarty.
Holmes's assessment of Moran's threat level.