A scandal in Bohemia

"To Sherlock Holmes, she is always THE woman [...]. In his eyes she eclipses and predominates the whole of her sex. It was not that he felt any emotion akin to love for Irene Adler."

Since he got married, Watson seldom saw Holmes. Sometimes, he hears of his doings in the press.

Watson has returned to a civil practice of medicine. After a visit, he stops at Baker Street. Holmes is about to receive a special visitor. A big man arrives, wearing rich clothes and a mask. But that cannot deceive Holmes, who recognize the Grand Duke, hereditary king of Bohemia.

The Duke is about to get married. But several years ago, he met an adventuress and a famous contralto : Irene Adler. She's got a compromising photo, and threaten to send it to the family-in-law to be.

The Duke already made several attempt of burglary to get the photo back. He failed. But Holmes was recommended to him.

On the morrow, Holmes meets Watson again. He has observed and followed Irene Adler. She just got married with Geoffrey Norton, a lawyer. As a witness was needed, Holmes, who was the only person present at the ceremony, has performed this role (under a disguise).

He changes his costume and goes back to Irene Adler's house. As a clergyman, he pretends to be the victim of a fight and comes into the house for help.

Outside, Watson throws a smoke-rocket through the windows and cries out "Fire!".

Irene Adler looks at a corner of the room, and Holmes learns where the photograph is hidden.

He comes back with the Duke on the following day, but Irene Adler understood her mistake... She left the house, with a letter for Holmes, and another photo of herself. She gives up any threat of blackmail.

The Duke is relieved. He promises any reward to Holmes, who just ask for the photograph.

Image: blog Sans aucun doute