Class 11 Lesson 4 The Adventure of the Three Garridebs NCERT English Book Woven Words Short Stories Questions and Answers.
Lesson 4 The Adventure of the Three Garridebs
Understand the text
1. What clues did Sherlock Holmes work upon to get at the fact that the story of the three Garridebs was a ruse?
2. What was John Garridebs objective in inventing the story of Alexander Hamilton Garrideb and his legacy?
3. Why didn’t John Garrideb like the idea of including Holmes in the hunt for the third Garrideb?
4. Who was Roger Presbury and how was John Garrideb connected with him?
5. How did Holmes guess that John Garrideb would go to 136, Little Ryder Street? Did the expect to find what he ultimately did before he went there?
Answer:
- What clues did Sherlock Holmes work upon to get at the fact that the story of the three Garridebs was a ruse? Sherlock Holmes noticed several inconsistencies in John Garrideb’s story. Firstly, the idea of searching for people based on a surname in such a contrived way aroused Holmes’ suspicion. The story of a large inheritance for people who shared the same last name sounded far-fetched. Holmes also found it odd that John Garrideb was so insistent on not involving anyone else in the search, particularly a professional like Holmes, which raised more red flags. Holmes carefully observed John Garrideb’s behavior and his over-enthusiasm, which seemed unnatural.
- What was John Garrideb’s objective in inventing the story of Alexander Hamilton Garrideb and his legacy? John Garrideb, whose real name was Killer Evans, concocted the story of Alexander Hamilton Garrideb and the inheritance to gain access to Nathan Garrideb’s apartment at 136, Little Ryder Street. His goal was to search the premises for hidden documents or treasures left behind by Roger Presbury, an old criminal associate. The story was merely a ruse to manipulate Nathan Garrideb into allowing him to examine the apartment without raising suspicion.
- Why didn’t John Garrideb like the idea of including Holmes in the hunt for the third Garrideb? John Garrideb (Killer Evans) did not want Sherlock Holmes involved because Holmes’ reputation as a brilliant detective posed a threat to his scheme. Holmes’ involvement would make it difficult for John to continue his deceit undetected, and Holmes’ sharp observational skills could easily expose the false nature of his story.
- Who was Roger Presbury and how was John Garrideb connected with him? Roger Presbury was a notorious forger and criminal, and John Garrideb (Killer Evans) had been his associate. Presbury had hidden some valuable items, presumably forged currency plates or important documents, at 136, Little Ryder Street. John Garrideb wanted to recover these items, which is why he devised the elaborate scheme involving Nathan Garrideb.
- How did Holmes guess that John Garrideb would go to 136, Little Ryder Street? Did the expect to find what he ultimately did before he went there? Holmes deduced that John Garrideb would go to 136, Little Ryder Street because the location was central to the entire scheme. The way John had manipulated Nathan Garrideb made it clear that he had a vested interest in something at that address. Holmes expected to find that John was searching for something valuable, possibly linked to his criminal past, and he was prepared for the confrontation. However, Holmes did not fully know what John Garrideb was seeking until they caught him in the act.
Talking about the text
Discuss the following in pairs or in small groups
1. ‘It was worth a wound -it was worth wounds-to know the depth of lovely and love that lay behind that cold mask’- how does this comment throw light on the kind of relationship between /Holmes and Watson?
2. The cleverest of criminals leave behind clues to their crime.
3. How did Holme’s digressions something prove in the end to have a bearing on the matter on hand? Discuss this with reference to all the apparently irrelevant points he was trying to gather information from.
Answer:
- “It was worth a wound – it was worth wounds – to know the depth of loyalty and love that lay behind that cold mask” – how does this comment throw light on the kind of relationship between Holmes and Watson? This comment reveals the deep bond of friendship and loyalty between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson. While Holmes often appears detached and unemotional, this line suggests that beneath his cold exterior, he cares deeply for Watson. Holmes’ concern for Watson’s safety during the confrontation with John Garrideb (Killer Evans) was an emotional moment for both of them, showing that Holmes values Watson as more than just a companion or assistant. Watson’s reflection highlights his realization of Holmes’ concealed affection and loyalty, suggesting that their relationship is based on mutual respect, trust, and unspoken affection. It shows that Watson’s loyalty to Holmes is reciprocated, even if not overtly expressed.
- The cleverest of criminals leave behind clues to their crime. Even the most intelligent criminals, like John Garrideb (Killer Evans), tend to leave clues behind, as they often overlook small details in their otherwise well-crafted plans. In this story, although Garrideb’s scheme appeared well-planned, it still raised suspicions for someone as observant as Sherlock Holmes. His invented story of the Garrideb inheritance was too complex, and the fact that he was so keen on keeping Holmes out of the search indicated that something was amiss. No matter how smart or careful a criminal is, their behavior, speech, or actions often reveal hints that a skilled detective like Holmes can pick up on. This demonstrates that even the cleverest plans are not foolproof.
- How did Holmes’ digressions sometimes prove in the end to have a bearing on the matter at hand? Discuss this with reference to all the apparently irrelevant points he was trying to gather information from. Holmes is known for his ability to focus on seemingly irrelevant details, which often prove critical to solving the case. In “The Adventure of the Three Garridebs,” Holmes’ attention to minor aspects—such as John Garrideb’s behavior, the intricacies of the invented story, and the specific locations mentioned—ultimately helped him deduce the true motive behind the scheme. For example, Holmes’ interest in the geography of Little Ryder Street or the connection between Roger Presbury and Killer Evans might have seemed like digressions at first, but they were central to unmasking the plot. Holmes’ technique involves piecing together small details that may seem insignificant at first glance, but in the end, they help him solve the larger puzzle.
Appreciation
1. Examine the structure of the short story ‘Adventure of the Three Garridebs’ with the help of this framework
The narrator of the story
Introduction of the topic of the story
Introduction of the main characters in the plot
Development of the plot
Climax
Resolution of the mystery.
2. Examine the subtle humour in the narration of the story that lightens the gravity of the subject matter.
Here’s an examination of the structure of the short story “The Adventure of the Three Garridebs” using the provided framework:
1. The Narrator of the Story
The narrator of the story is Dr. John Watson, Sherlock Holmes’ trusted companion and close friend. Watson narrates the story in the first person, providing insight into both the case and his observations of Holmes’ methods. His narration not only adds a personal touch but also humanizes Holmes, making the story more engaging. Watson’s loyalty and admiration for Holmes are evident throughout the narrative.
2. Introduction of the Topic of the Story
The story begins with the arrival of Nathan Garrideb, who seeks Sherlock Holmes’ help in locating a third person named Garrideb. The topic revolves around a supposed inheritance from a wealthy American named Alexander Hamilton Garrideb, who stipulated that three men sharing the same surname (Garrideb) must be found to claim his fortune. This unusual request piques Holmes’ interest, as it hints at a deeper mystery beneath the surface.
3. Introduction of the Main Characters in the Plot
- Sherlock Holmes: The brilliant detective, known for his razor-sharp intellect and logical reasoning, who is approached to solve the mystery.
- Dr. John Watson: Holmes’ loyal friend and narrator of the story, who assists him in solving the case.
- Nathan Garrideb: A reclusive man who comes to Holmes, claiming he needs help in locating a third person named Garrideb to inherit a fortune.
- John Garrideb (Killer Evans): The antagonist who fabricates the story of the inheritance to manipulate Nathan Garrideb for his own criminal gain. His true identity and motive are revealed later in the story.
4. Development of the Plot
The plot develops as Holmes begins to investigate the credibility of the story. As Holmes and Watson delve deeper, they uncover inconsistencies in the narrative, particularly surrounding John Garrideb (Killer Evans). Holmes suspects that the story about the inheritance is a ruse. Nathan Garrideb’s genuine belief in the inheritance adds complexity to the plot, while Holmes’ suspicions grow as John Garrideb tries to exclude Holmes from further involvement.
Holmes’ inquiries reveal connections between John Garrideb and a former associate, Roger Presbury, a criminal linked to a counterfeit scheme. This connection indicates that John Garrideb’s true motive is not about inheritance but rather something criminal in nature.
5. Climax
The climax occurs when Holmes and Watson follow John Garrideb to 136 Little Ryder Street, where the truth behind the entire scheme is revealed. As Holmes and Watson confront Garrideb, he retrieves hidden counterfeit plates from a secret compartment. In a moment of tension, John Garrideb (Killer Evans) draws a gun on Holmes, but Watson courageously intervenes and is injured. Holmes, deeply concerned for Watson’s safety, overpowers John Garrideb, bringing the confrontation to a dramatic close.
6. Resolution of the Mystery
The resolution of the mystery reveals that the entire story of the Garrideb inheritance was a hoax created by John Garrideb (Killer Evans) to gain access to counterfeit plates that were hidden in the apartment at 136 Little Ryder Street. Holmes exposes the ruse, and John Garrideb is arrested for his criminal activities. The case ends with Holmes expressing his heartfelt concern for Watson, emphasizing their deep bond. The case is solved, and justice is served.
In conclusion, the story follows a classic detective plot structure, where a seemingly simple case leads to a complex criminal conspiracy, with Holmes’ brilliance unraveling the truth and bringing the culprit to justice. The structure is tight, with each element of the plot moving the story forward toward a satisfying and dramatic resolution.
Language Work
1. a. Identify the words in the advertisement that gave away the fact that it was placed by John Garrideb.
b. Make a list of words which are spelt differently in American and British English.
2. Look at the highlight expressions in the following sentences from the text and explain their figurative meaning.
‘I went through it, sir, with a fine-toothed comb and never a Garrideb could I catch.’
They are my favourite covert for putting up a bird, and I would never have overlooked a cock pheasant as that.’
There is no bolt-hole for you in this country.’
When his castle in the air fell down. It buried him beneath the ruins.
Answer:
1. a. Identify the words in the advertisement that gave away the fact that it was placed by John Garrideb.
The advertisement used specific terms that Sherlock Holmes found suspicious, which indicated it was placed by John Garrideb (Killer Evans). The choice of wording and the mention of the unusual name “Garrideb” itself raised Holmes’ suspicions because it was too specific and seemed designed to mislead or lure a person named Garrideb.
1. b. List of Words Spelt Differently in American and British English
Here are some common words with differences in spelling between American and British English:
| British English | American English |
|---|---|
| Colour | Color |
| Honour | Honor |
| Centre | Center |
| Defence | Defense |
| Licence | License |
| Realise | Realize |
| Travelling | Traveling |
| Labour | Labor |
| Theatre | Theater |
| Jewellery | Jewelry |
2. Figurative Meanings of Highlighted Expressions
a. “I went through it, sir, with a fine-toothed comb and never a Garrideb could I catch.”
- Figurative Meaning: This expression means that the person searched or examined something very thoroughly and meticulously but found nothing relevant or valuable. In the context of the story, it indicates that no one by the name “Garrideb” could be found despite careful investigation.
b. “They are my favourite covert for putting up a bird, and I would never have overlooked a cock pheasant as that.”
- Figurative Meaning: In this case, “covert for putting up a bird” refers to a place where someone looks for something hidden or elusive. The phrase means that the speaker is experienced at finding things and would not miss something important or obvious, like a cock pheasant (a prized bird). It emphasizes the speaker’s confidence in their observational skills.
c. “There is no bolt-hole for you in this country.”
- Figurative Meaning: A “bolt-hole” refers to a hiding place or escape route. In this sentence, it means there is no safe place or way to escape for the person being addressed. The speaker is warning the individual that they have no place to run or hide from the law or consequences.
d. “When his castle in the air fell down. It buried him beneath the ruins.”
- Figurative Meaning: The phrase “castle in the air” refers to a grand, but unrealistic or impractical, dream or plan. When it “fell down,” it means that the dream collapsed or failed. Being “buried beneath the ruins” suggests that the failure of the plan overwhelmed or destroyed the person emotionally or financially.