THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES - WEEK 5 - CHAPTERS 7 -8

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES by Arthur Conan Doyle

Baskerville Hall has a completely different look in the morning. Sir Henry and Watson's night nerves are set aside and the analyzing begins. Even though it's denied, the owner of the nighttime wailing is known. The question is why is Mrs. Barrymore crying?

What are your thoughts on the neighbors? The meeting of Stapleton happens first. (Definitely a unique and mysterious fellow, don't you think?) He's certainly curious about Watson's reason for visiting. Together they watch the horror of the sinking of the moor pony into Grimpen Mire. Then we meet the lovely Miss Stapleton and hear her warnings. (It's clear our Sir Henry is smitten with her.) We can't leave out the sue happy neighbor, Mr. Frankland. (Ever know anyone like him?) What an annoying piece of work, but he is watching for Selden. Selden, we can't leave our escaped murderer out of the picture.

But we can't ignore Barrymore's erratic behavior. Oh my, the telegram. Did he seriously think he could escape that? What's the deal with the night escapades?

Are you suspicious of any one character over another?

I have to say I really enjoy Watson's reporting back to Holmes. His descriptions are marvelous. I loved the simile surrounding the rocks in the middle of the grassy meadow. "In the middle of it rose two great stones, worn and sharpened at the upper end, until they looked like the huge, corroding fangs of some monstrous beast." It's clear this ferocious hound is imprinting itself in Watson's head.

Alright- it's your turn. What are you noticing? Are you glad to be a spectator on the outside looking in or do you wish you were in the thick of things?