The Adventure of the Solitary Cyclist: Particular Enjoyments

[methylviolet10b]

Author: methylviolet10b
Rating: PG
Character(s): Sherlock Holmes, Dr. John Watson, Mr. Woodley
Summary: Holmes reflects on the outcome of two visits to the Surrey countryside.
Warnings: Mild spoilers for SOLI.
Word Count: 60, plus a quote from SOLI in italics, plus an extended-play version (100 words).
Author's Notes: 60 words of my own inspired by one of the canon stories.
Disclaimer: I don't own them.

SOLI – Particular Enjoyments
"What should I have done?"

While Watson exclaimed over my contusions, I felt glad it had been I, not him, who had thought to go to the public-house. Not that I doubted Watson would have emerged the victor. Woodley would not have prevailed against him, for my Watson is a formidable fighter at need. But he would not have enjoyed the fight, and I did.




Extended-play version (100 words):
"What should I have done?"

In truth, my Watson had not done so ill as I implied. I thought as much then, but much more so the next day. While Watson exclaimed over my contusions, I found myself glad it had been I, not him, who had thought to go to the public-house. Not that I doubted Watson would have emerged the victor. Woodley would not have prevailed against him, any more than he did me, for my Watson is a formidable fighter in his own right. But he is no pugilist, and he would not have enjoyed punching Woodley’s brutish face, as I did.

Comments

[methylviolet10b]

I suspect you're entirely correct, Watson would have enjoyed thrashing him had he been confronted in the village tap-room and known what a villain he was. But since he couldn't have known, it's just as well it was Holmes.

Thank you!