"Did you like hearing it that way?" Watson asked. "I can refrain if you'd like, but I have no objection to sharing." It was unnerving to share what wasn't finished, but it was also rather gratifying to see Holmes enjoy what he wrote.

It was, besides, a little special to have Holmes actually approve of anything he wrote.

"I am actually considering," Watson said, making a grand, sweeping gesture with his free hand, "the story of a handsome, rakish pirate captain and his trusted first mate growing close as they search for a legendary lost treasure. How does that strike you?"