The Dear Holmes “Featured Detective” Program honors one detective per mystery for their clever and well-thought-out solution to the case. To learn how to send in your own solution, visit Dearholmes.com/solve.
Dear Detectives,
From unexplained whispers to ghastly sights, The Mystery of the Mad Tea Parties had us quite baffled this Spring.
On learning of this odd case, most investigators were quick to agree that something was amiss in the Duval household. None of the individuals involved appeared to be ill or otherwise unwell until arriving at the property, yet those living there did not seem plagued by the same effects.
For many sleuths, this cast quite the suspicious light on both Mrs. Duval, and her "tea parties". Theories ranged from an envious Mrs. Duval poisoning her fake friends, to those involving espionage, and Mrs. Duval's supposed clandestine efforts, but few were certain of a holistic explanation. This changed once Watson's friend, Locard, delivered further evidence related to these gatherings, and the Duvals' social circles.
Upon learning of Mrs. Duval's orangery, a number of keen eyes caught on to the dubious presence of thorn-apple, a gift she had received. No doubt, this raised red flags for investigators familiar with the plant's potentially deadly properties, still, the end-game was unclear. Was somebody poisoning Mrs. Duval and her friends, all of whom shared convenient proximity to important individuals? Or was Mrs. Duval herself an agent for some greater force or organization?
Given Mr. Duval's work, the notion of espionage was not to be dismissed. Nor was the notion of his wife's involvement, given her proximity to the tea parties, and the fact she herself did not appear to be ill. Indeed, many were correct to note she as tampering with her guests' tea, and avoiding the poison herself by means of opting for coffee. However, as several clever detectives noted, Mrs. Duval's was not the only hand at play. Locard, the mysterious man who had gifted her the thorn-apples, was certainly involved.
There were several theories put forth as to their relationship — two spies in cahoots, secret lovers taking down an enemy's enterprise, or even blackmail — but the full truth escaped most until Holmes stepped in.
Our latest Featured Detective, Detective Abigail W., of Boston, MA, was one of the sharp few who caught onto the odd relationship between Mrs. Duval and Locard. And in true Featured Detective fashion, their theory did not stop there.
Detective Abigail not only noted the possible effects (and dangers) of thorn-apple, and the likelihood of blackmail, but also saw past all the red herrings and through to Locard's actual identity— a scared old criminal, hoping to keep his illicit past buried.
Congratulations from the Dear Holmes Team to Detective Abigail W. — a special sur(prize) will soon be on its way!
Honorable Mention(s) to Detectives Faye J. of Fallrook, CA and Deborah B. of Fruitland Park, FL. Both of these sleuths were swift to see the shape of this plot, but couldn't quite pin down the true nature of Edgar and Mrs. Duval's relationship.
Want to be next month’s Featured Detective? Mail your solution to 1101 14th St NW, Suite 910, Washington DC 20005, or submit online at Dearholmes.com/solve.