Those who are acquainted by various coincidences with the story of my friend, Sherlock Holmes, will know that there are some very secret parts of my records, which concern the reputation of many ancient families. The story which I am about to tell is of this kind, as it involves the future of one of the noblest families in England, but as it also involves the innocence of an innocent young lady, my friend and I agree that the truth should be disclosed with caution.
——Excerpted from the memoirs of John H. Watson, MD, former Army Surgeon General
Intention: