Now is the dramatic moment of fate, Watson, when you hear a step upon the stair which is walking into your life, and you know not whether for good or ill.

An absence of antecedents and of relatives is sometimes an aid rather than an impediment to social advancement . . .

I should be very much obliged if you would slip your revolver into your pocket. An Eley's No. 2 is an excellent argument with gentlemen who can twist steel pokers into knots. That and a tooth-brush are, I think, all that we need.

The future was with Fate. The present was our own.

It's quite exciting," said Sherlock Holmes, with a yawn.

I am afraid that I rather give myself away when I explain," said he. "Results without causes are much more impressive.

I feel that there is reason lurking in you somewhere, so we will patiently grope round for it.