aC a s e O f B a D

D
FoRT
A
L u N E s

Extra Case- By Jean Millemann

11 October, 1891
Note:

Requires the base game (rules, directory and map).

Some addresses in the South and East Areas are included in this case.
 October 1891
From Role Mag’ N°5
By Jean Millemann

We’ve just arrived at 221B Baker Street when Dr. Watson takes us aside. “Gentlemen, I’m deeply
concerned about Mr. Holmes’s mental state. For two days now he’s been acquiring strange books and
spending all his time at the coffee table playing patience with a deck of cards. I’m worried that he’s
been seized by the idea of reading the future thus, which you will no doubt agree is quite
illogical. Also, please don’t mention this madness of not speaking until he’s flipped a
card.”

Wiggins asks Watson if he can say when exactly the most brilliant
mind of our time was overcome with this folly. “Precisely two
days ago, after reading The Times.” Wiggins looks over at
us conspiratorially and whispers in our ear: “I rather think
we’d do well to read that edition of the Times and start
investigating, don’t you?”
 Area SE
16 SE
“Would you like a room?”
We decline the porter’s offer, and he then goes on to tell
us that Arnold Sutro was never very successful in the law
circles, but he is an excellent medium and very much an expert
when it comes to reading the future in the cards.
24 SE
Adrian Deckbar’s housekeeper, a short, buxom woman,
lets it be known that he is out investigating the private lives of
the Royal Family.
28 SE
The area around the insane asylum is a soulless place.
From time to time, we hear a piercing cry escape from within.
The watchman tells us that we cannot enter without permis-
sion.
39 SE
Mr Reece’s clerk informs us that the owner departed for
Hampshire on business a week ago. His return was expected
ahead of the arrival of The Sea Bird.
89 SE
“So you’re interested in the music of Mr. Wagner?
Funnily enough, he would be displeased to be remembered as
a composer as he considered himself a philosopher first and
foremost. He wrote many books on the subject, in which he
defends some radical theories. I heartily recommend that you
read ‘Art and Revolution’ or ‘The Artwork of the Future.’
One thing’s for certain, the only way to fully appreciate the
spirit of this music is through the legends it draws on. The
Ring Cycle, for example, hearkens back to an epic German
poem, while The Flying Dutchman, an opera about commu-
nication and solitude, is based on Germanic folklore. He even
incorporated Celtic myths - you only have to listen to Parsifal
to know that, although as a later work it is somewhat removed
from the rest of his output. Did you know he was the one who
introduced leitmotif into opera, and that he built the Bayreuth
Festival Theatre in Bavaria that plays host to a major an-
nual music festival? Please excuse me, I have to get ready
now as I’m introducing tonight’s presentation on this great
man at the Tivoli Music Hall. Come and see the show, it’s a
feast for the eyes as well as the ears.”
We depart.

78 SE
The house is locked, but Wiggins needs but a few mo-
ments to demonstrate that the skills one learns in the less sa-
lubrious areas of the city can sometimes come in very handy.
Although there is no-one in the house, Wiggins’s keen eyes
pick out a crumpled piece of paper which is signed by Jenny
and contains the following words in a woman’s handwriting:
“I’m at the Limehouse market. Join me there if your heart
tells you to.”

80 SE
Louis Chardon is absent, and a sign on the door states
in imperfect English that he is presently at London’s Outer
Docks overseeing work that’s needed on one of his vessels.

81 SE
Edward Tobin must be at his office at Constable Pub-
lishing, as the door to his house is locked.
 Area E 53 E
The manager welcomes us cordially, but regretfully is un-
25 E able to assist us much, in no small part because the company
The atmosphere at Bloggs is tense, and realizing that we that’s currently seeking dockers due to the dockers’ supersti-
are not here to hire on, Mr. Bloggs, a thickset man, asks us tious fear of the ghostly The Flying Dutchman is Aberdeen
brusquely to leave the premises. Navigation.

29 E 69 E
Jimmy Griggs’s housekeeper answers the door and tells Lester Tate is a lanky man with a disconcerting visage.
us that he is currently engaged in business discussions with a He does not hesitate to let us into his house.
major benefactor and does not want to see anyone. She states “Have you any news about Catherine, gentlemen? It’s
that the discussions may go on a long time and that if we leave been three days now since she disappeared and I’m certain
our names and addresses, Mr. Griggs will contact us the fol- she didn’t run away, it’s not in her character.”
lowing day. We explain who we are, and straight away his face lights
We make as if to leave, but Wiggins, daring as always, up with a hopeful smile. “Tell me everything, gentlemen, what
circles the house carefully. When he returns a few moments have you found out? My daughter is the only family I have
later, he is clearly excited. left. She had to visit one of her friends that morning, Jenny
“I tell you, the person talking to Griggs is that damnable Trent, who to me seemed to be a quite proper young woman.
James Moriarty. We have to find some backup and arrest She left a key to her house with my daughter, but I don’t
them both.” even know whether they met as when I went to the house
Having noticed that some nearby onlookers appear to be there was absolutely no-one around. I don’t know what to
there more by design than by chance, we opt instead for dis- do any more. If you find my beloved daughter, I will reward
cretion over valour, knowing that the man will be long gone by you generously.”
the time we’ve notified Scotland Yard. We promise the good man that we will do everything in
our power, and he shows us a portrait of his daughter, a strik-
48 E ingly beautiful, shapely blonde woman.
The promised documentation is soon in our hands, and
reveals amongst other things that Jimmy Griggs owns a single
ship, The Flying Dutchman, which is transporting cargo be-
tween the Netherlands and Algeria. Just like the legend from
which it takes its name, the ship has a shadowy reputation
that its owner seems only too keen to enhance.
Moreover, there is mention of a worrying pattern of wom-
en, usually blonde, being reported missing from each port of
call.
It’s also readily apparent from the papers that Professor
Moriarty is involved. As understanding dawns, we quickly
depart to continue our investigations. The captives are at great
risk.

50 E
The journalist is there, but unfortunately is snoring away
at a corner table, completely sozzled. Not daring to rouse him, Almost as soon as we leave, Wiggins quietly ponders:
we leave him be and withdraw. “single and beautiful, just like me…”
 73 E test to the her brutal treatment. She tells us that she heard the
The Star & Plow is a quintessentially English place. At crew had been slaughtered and that a new captain, presum-
the bar we speak to Michael Lee, a Chinese man who came ably the owner himself, was meant to come to take command
from Canton to spend some time in England. It is patently of the ship that evening. The ship’s human cargo was destined
obvious that he has nothing to do with our investigation. for Tangiers.

93 E
The warehouses and boats are relatively quiet today.
94 E
The Flying Dutchman is a three-masted barque in very
bad repair. Its hull is ramshackle, and the rigging is in tatters.
The sails are torn in places, and overall the ship has a brood-
ing, sinister feel, like it’s labouring under an ancient and terrible
curse. A hostile-looking man is leaning on the rail, standing
guard. The bridge appears to be empty, and the only sound is
the ominous creaking of wood. Wiggins calls up to the man
“Health Department, Sir, we’re ’ere to inspect your boat and
cargo.” The man lets us pass, albeit reluctantly. We silently
give thanks for having such a talented actor in our midst, as
we enter the ship’s hold.
The boat genuinely appears to be devoid of any hu-
man presence, but our attention is caught by a noise - a long,
muffled groan coming from inside a large combine harvester.
Over the objections of the watchman, we move towards the
machinery, turning our backs to him in the process. Wiggins,
however, sensing danger, keeps his eyes on the man - and
rightly so, as he pulls a Colt revolver from his pocket and takes
aim at us. Wiggins reacts quickly, the shot goes awry, and a
nasty-looking red gash appears on Wiggins’ shoulder.
We overpower the would-be assassin and approach the
machinery. Inside we find twelve young women, all blonde,
and all bound and gagged. One of them, Catherine Tate,
rouses her neighbour, Jenny Trent, who bears welts that at-
95 E
One of the dockworkers informs us that the crew of The
King George left a while ago. He remembers overhearing
one of them mention The Black Crown.
96 E
The market at Limehouse Dock is teeming with people.
As we pass by a stall we encounter a gaggle of gossips, but
we learn nothing.
97 E
We ascend the ramp to the Merry Runaround but, are
quickly rebuffed: “Oh no, you’re not coming aboard without
permission from Mr. Morris himself.” The deckhand’s boom-
ing voice draws the attention of several other crew members,
who quickly fall in behind him. Not wanting to wind up in the
drink, we beat a hasty retreat.
98 E
The pungent smell in the air leaves no doubt as to the
last cargo that arrived and was carted off. Finding nothing
noticeable of interest and plenty of disinterest, we leave.
99 E
A collision between two loaded wagons has brought the
entire dockside to a standstill and completely blocked access
to the dock area.
 Area SW man? I’ll tell you all about it. Many years ago, a Dutchman
owned a beautiful boat - a big, three-masted vessel designed to
1 SW endure even the worst storms. The ship sailed in any weather,
tackling the elements and raging storms head-on with the cruel
Lord Balmoral’s household staff tell us that he has gone
hand of the captain at the ship’s wheel. This brutal, frightful
to see Lord Euston.
man was unfeasibly strong, and despised by his crew. One
stormy night, as the ship was duelling with the dangers of the
2 SW
Cape of Good Hope, risking at any moment the loss of its
We’re told with a snicker that poor Langdale Pike is masts to the hurricane, the captain, before the terrified gaze
unwell and had to leave for his second home in the Midlands, of his sailors, promised his soul to the Devil in return for safe
accompanied by a quite charming nurse. He is not expected passage.
back until next week. Not that his absence will weigh heavily “As if by magic, the sea calmed immediately and a gentle
on London for too long, as one of his disciples, one Adrian breeze came up, driving the ship to the other side of the Cape.
Deckbar, is expected to pick up the baton the following day. The men chained their captain to the mast and made their
For now, though, Langdale Pike is indisposed. way to the coast, where they abandoned the ship. When the
Nevertheless, we learn that the gossip currently titillating captain tried to disembark, he was unable to do so, as he was
the whole of London is the sudden and strange conversion of now bound (so to speak) to the ship by a very powerful and
Arnold Sutro from peaceable solicitor to fortune teller. unbreakable spell. He was forced to sail alone until the end of
days - unless, that is, someone pure of heart would agree to
5 SW come aboard. It’s quite the legend, and one of our compatriots
Mr. Lomax greets us warmly, and readily engages us in turned it into an opera that was performed in Paris, in 1841
a discourse on the works of Richard Wagner. We learn that if my memory is correct.”
in his writings and operas he advocated for redemption through At that moment, Colonel Frederick von Kraushoffer
love and abstinence, and is considered a leading creative tal- enters the office and recognizes us. He points wordlessly to
ent for his rich harmonies and complex musical dramas. His the door, and grasping the intent of his gesture, we grudgingly
primary inspiration was the wealth of Germanic legends, but comply.
he also drew from Celtic mythology. Mr. Lomax tells us that
the best way to learn more about these myths is to borrow a 10 SW
book or visit the cultural attaché at the German Embassy, who We are turned away at the courtyard entrance, but can
is an authority in the field. see Mitchell Rourke’s carriage and driver waiting outside the
Admiralty House.
8 SW
Mycroft is incandescent. “This cannot continue! Lon- 13 SW
don is fast becoming one of the the most disreputable capital We are told that Inspector Lestrade is at home for the
cities in Europe, and this litany of unsolved crimes is even be-
day as he wanted to rest, but that Gregson is present. The
ginning to vex Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria. latter receives us in his office. “Right now I’m working on the
Word in the corridors of power has it that she plans to ‘cleandisappearance of several young women in the London Docks
up the Police’, which may well cost many people their jobs. area. The disappearances started on the 5th of October, and
It’s strong incentive for us to find the culprits sooner rather
they’re on the increase. There’s been no ransom demand, and
than later.” the victims’ descriptions makes me think these women must be
being trafficked. What we really need to know is where they’re
9 SW being taken and who’s behind it. Then we can move. I’ve
Wiggins’ presence means we are soon meeting with the been in contact with my associates abroad, but cross-border
Embassy’s cultural attaché, an elderly, very soft-spoken gent cooperation is less-than-perfect, so the only thing I’ve been
with blue, faraway eyes. “The Legend of the Flying Dutch- able to ascertain is that some sort of evil intelligence is behind
it and that they’ll stop at nothing to achieve their ends. Many 22 SW
of my foreign colleagues have turned up dead as a result of this Wiggins knows the buildings like the back of his hands,
investigation, yet it remains a complete mystery. We still don’t and we follow him to H.R. Murray’s laboratory. He pushes
know who’s at the heart of it all. These young women, blondes open a green door, behind which we find the eminent crimi-
mostly, are just disappearing without a trace.” nologist hunched over a pack of cards. He greets us with a
He shows us a list of abductees, which we study care- grumble:
fully: “Alright boys, tell me what you want and be quick about
• Elisabeth Long - daughter of James Long it, I have work to do.”
• Mary Eckstrom - daughter of Carl Eckstrom “What cards are those, Mr. Murray? Are they the
• Catherine Tate - daughter of Lester Tate ones found with the dead bodies at the London Docks?”
• Jenny Trent “Quite so, lad, quite so. Their location shows that an in-
A suspect by the name of Walter Browne was arrested and dividual who wasn’t involved in the criminal activities put them
transferred to Millbank Prison. there deliberately to make it crystal clear they had been there
without revealing their own identity. It bothers me greatly
21 SW given my current task: establishing the modus operandi and
A disturbing looking man with a strong German accent the corpus delicti of the actus reus in question.”
comes to the door. It’s Ludwig Kahn. “So what have you found so far?”
“Did Russel send you? Him and his big mouth. I don’t “The deck was manufactured by Calberough Works of
want any troubles. You’re not from the Yard? Okay, I’ll tell London. It’s nowhere near complete, and a symbol or num-
you what I saw. I was near London Docks on business - ber was added to each one in red ink.”
don’t ask me which, or we done. It was 9 in the evening, just
after Big Ben rang. I heard shouting, so I went to see what
was happening, just curious, you know. In front of the most
rotten ship I’ve ever seen, two groups of guys were beating
each other. I recognized my friend, Steve Rampton - he was
a sailor for Griggs, but I haven’t seen him for ages. I wanted
to help, but it was too late. Not one of the twenty-five guys
from off the boat got out of the trouble. Everyone had blades
and iron bars. It’d have been stupid to get involved. I’ve got
only one life, you know? And these guys know what they were
doing. A little hit in the ribs’ll knock out a man even if he’s built
like a bull, followed by hits to the hands, feet, hips… any-
where that’s going to hurt but not kill. Then when he’s in really
bad shape, hit him hard in the belly and he’ll die slowly. I felt
cold sweat on my back. Look, just talking about it, gives me
goosebumps all over again. When the carnage was over and
the killers had fled, one dubious-looking guy went to the bod-
ies and laid out some playing cards next to my mate’s corpse
- you know - arranged like you would for fortune-telling.”
His description of the man immediately brings Fred Por-
lock to mind, and we leave.
 Area S

14 S
The door is opened by a man with a marked German
accent who turns out to be Ludwig Kahn’s manservant. He
leads us to a large room whose walls are decorated with con-
temporary paintings, then leaves to notify the master of the
house.
Ludwig is an imposing, elderly man with long, white hair
tied back in a headband. He says that he is a painter, a claim
that appears to be backed up by his paint-stained smock. He
does not know Shinwell, let alone Russel, and has spent the
last ten or so years of his retirement in England as he is smit-
ten with the climate and ambience. He knows nothing about
boats and has never been involved in naval matters. Before
his retirement he was an officer in the German army and has a
particular interest in airships. We leave the affable gentleman
“And what does all that mean?” to his business, and after a few steps Wiggins turns to us.
“You boys work it out - I’m trying to figure out what “I don’t think this Ludwig Kahn has anything to do
happened, not what the cards say. I’m sure whoever ar- with Russel. He must just be a namesake, no?”
ranged the cards like this had a good reason for doing so, but
my work is confined to the realm of physical evidence - I’m 23 S
not your man for deciphering codes. Now if you’ll excuse me, We are met by a sour-faced woman in immodest attire
I have work to do and I’ve given enough of my time over to that reveals her ankles.
helping aspiring detectives already.” “What is it ye want? I ain’t got nuthin’. If yer after me
We politely say goodbye. Apparently the head crimi- man, I can tell ye that God called ‘im ‘ome, but I reckon he
nologist is in an irascible mood. ‘ad to send him back down two floors to ‘eaven’s basement,
hell I mean, what with ‘im not bein’ a proper Christian an’
23 SW all.
The name of Gregson grants us immediate access to Wal- “I kept on telling ‘im, Steve, think o’ yer soul, ye don’t
ter Browne, whom we interview in the visitation room under even go to Mass. Well, what ye gonna do, ye can’t always
the watchful gaze of a grim-looking prison warden. Wiggins choose yer man, and even though ‘e weren’t always a saint,
convinces the man to talk, and upon learning of our line of in- ‘e’d never ‘urt a fly.
quiry - together with a small sum and a guarantee of discretion “Not that I saw ‘im much, given as ‘e was always on ‘is
- he identifies and openly incriminates one Elbert Ragdale. boat, The Flying Dutchman. T’were an ‘eap of a ship, he
said, something that belonged in ‘purgat’ry rather than plyin’
98 SW the seas.
We find a note on the floor: “And even when ‘e were in London and came to show
me some affection, the man smelt like a woman. They’re all
Docks, tonight like that, though, those men - ‘ave to ‘ave some fun elsewhere,
5:30 pm otherwise they’d beat ye to a pulp.
“Anyways, I dunno whether ‘e earnt a place up there,
but ‘e left me all alone an’ I know ‘zactly ‘ow to ‘andle that,
what wiv my ‘aving ‘ad to make ends meet for the last five
years an’ wiv you bein’ such a looker, milord, I can promise
ye things yer wife ain’t never even ‘eard of, like wot my Steve Area nw
taught me after seeing those Arabian women. Won’t cost ye
much either, I ‘ave to live, show me a kindness and ye won’t 4 NW
regret it. I’ll do whatever ye want for the right price.”
The secretary at Constable Publishing House helpfully
We decline her generous offer and hurry off, pursued by
informs us that they only accept requests in writing and will not
a volley of oaths that would make even the most hardened of
respond to enquiries in person.
sailors blanch. Wiggins gleefully records them in his note-
book.
18 NW
56 S Parsons & Sons toy shop is open, and on arrival we
are cordially greeted by Fred Porlock. He sells Wiggins a
When we gain access to his house, we find Elbert
signed deck of cards along with a very battered copy of a
Ragdale dead. His head’s been caved in with a heavy iron
poster advertising an opera in Paris in 1841, although it’s not
bar, which was then discarded in a corner of the room.
clear which one. The only thing we can discern are the letters
Rummaging through his belongings, we deduce that he
R and W. We pay for these items and leave, trying to come
was trafficking women and was not above the occasional bit
across as happy customers.
of kidnapping and blackmail.
On his forehead, a business card says “Thus perish
22 NW
those…”
The building is closed for renovation.
66 S
33 NW
All manner of containers crowd the docks as workers
unload a vessel named The Lady Flanagan. None of the The door is shut, but through one of the windows we can
men seem keen to stop and chat as they keep a wary eye on a make out the front room where the chandelier came crash-
finely dressed gentleman walking about the vessel - no doubt ing down. We see nothing of note. Wiggins cracks open a
someone with a vested interest in all that is going on. blind and we enter the house, but find only a piece of paper
on which is written: “XSBU-GFTZ-N 13 take delivery
Commercial Docks tonight.”
 42 NW Area WC
Watson remains a gracious host, but implores us not to
disturb Sherlock Holmes. Holmes is entranced by a book 2 WC
entitled “Etteilla, Ou La Seule Maniere de Tirer les Cartes” The place is deserted, and we see nothing of note.
- a French book about telling fortunes with playing cards -
while opera music plays on the phonograph. 3 WC
46 NW Carl Ekstrom looks utterly terrified, and at first refuses
to speak to us. We persist, and after half an hour Wiggins
The ticketmaker at the museum does not recall having convinces him to allow us into his home. Although we practi-
seen anyone suspicious lately. cally have to pry it from his mouth, he reveals that two men
of distinctly knavish character warned him that if he tried to
50 NW find his daughter, his wife would be killed and his property
Inspector Bradstreet’s wife tells us that he is investigat- destroyed. As we leave, there is no doubt in our minds that he
ing the death of a solicitor and won’t be back until evening. is telling the truth.

56 NW 5 WC
Lord Euston receives us and graciously accepts our con- As usual, immediately upon spying us the cabbies encircle
gratulations on his daughter’s nuptials. us, attempting to convert information into income. We make
note of their travel details:
60 NW
Countess d’Albert tells us tearfully that her husband
ket
passed away yesterday evening. Bath Terrace -> Limehouse Docks mar
Young dark-haired woman
77 NW
ket
Bath Terrace -> Limehouse Docks mar
Mitchell Rourke is not at home as he is interviewing with Blonde lady
the Admiralty, or so his wife’s lady-in-waiting has the perspi-
el
cacity to tell us when she answers the door. Liverpool-St Station -> De Keyser’s Hot
Chinaman

Corner of Grey’s Inn Rd/Britannia St ->

St. James’ Park
German gentleman, military appearance

Madame Tussaud’s -> Drury Lane Theatre

Shifty-seeming dark-skinned man

St. James Hall -> Bethlehem Asylum

Flamboyantly coiffeured Irish man

With Wiggins’ finances depleted, and despite several

offers from other cabbies, we head off.
 14 WC
Disraeli O’Brian makes us wait out in a vast office,
where he joins us after a brief delay.
“The Flying Dutchman belongs to Jimmy Griggs, who
only recently registered with the harbormaster. It’s the only
ship he owns. It’s surprising to see a man like him immersed
in maritime matters, since he’s been more of a money man up
to now. I rather think that he’s fronting for someone else who
wishes to remain anonymous. The boat sails under a Dutch
flag and frequently travels between Europe and Tangiers, usu-
ally carrying agricultural machinery or manufactured goods.
London is not one of its regular stops, and but for the death
of the captain it would never have had to come here. As far as
I was able to tell, his papers are perfectly in order.
“He has no crew, as all of his sailors were killed in a
brawl on the docks. Mr. Griggs’s solicitor, Philip Dagit,
nominated a man named Peter Smith to guard the ship while
Mr. Griggs appoints a new captain.”
17 WC
We learn nothing about the people we’re interested in, as
none of them have made a will.
23 WC
We’re told that Mr. Leuker is only there after 8 o’clock
in the evening.
30 WC
Our arrival at the theatre is greeted with howls of out-
rage.
“...What do you mean, cancelled? You cheats are
laughing at me! This simply can’t happen - I will speak to
my lawyer, Vincent Randolph, then we’ll see whether you
can just show Madame Lulu the door and that is that! You
will pay for this, my friends, you will pay a lot! That’ll teach
you to be so arrogant! You do not know who you’re messing
with!”
Recognizing the speaker, Madame Lulu, from the pic-
tures we saw in The Times, we head back out.
31 WC
The Onslow Ford exhibition is a runaway hit, as evi-
denced by the immense crowd swarming around the doors of
the museum, but we do not pick up any interesting leads.
40 WC
We are welcomed in by the medium himself, who, after
asking what we seek, ushers us into his private room. The
highly decorated shelves that line the walls contain a multitude
of books about different divination methods (cards, tarot, tea
leaves, palmistry.) At the centre of the room, on a low table, a
large crystal ball sits on a black alabaster pedestal. Our host,
who is dressed in unassuming attire, slides the crystal ball to
one side and spreads out the hand of cards, revealing their
markings.
“I thought you were here for a consultation,” he says in
a warm, hypnotically gentle voice, “but I sense that this is not
the case, so we’ll interpret the cards as an Etteilla spread. We
need to consider the hand as a whole to better understand the
message in the cards. We see that the overwhelming majority
are spades, indicating health and wealth problems; the lack of
any clubs or aces confirms this. The person for whom these
cards are drawn would appears to be in great danger. Read-
ing on, only one red card, the six of hearts, is upright. Very
worrying. This isn’t a joke, is it? No? Two of the groupings
- three reversed queens and two nines, upright and reversed -
urge caution, the other enjoyment of life’s pleasures.
“The connections, too, are sombre: nine of spades next to
eight of spades signifies death, ten of spades next to six of dia-
monds spells disillusionment. And six of hearts with queen of
diamonds means time is short. Then Jack of diamonds next to
five of spades - that’s bad news, trouble brewing.” He shakes
his head, then continues.
“As for the individual cards, none are pleasant: king of
spades upright represents a cruel, greedy man, and here, six
of diamonds, reversed - all could be lost to by choosing the
wrong path – six of spades, reversed. And of course, five of
spades, reversed: threat of mourning, a funeral.The last card
is the Queen of hearts, reversed: a blonde woman is suffering,
in trouble.
“Well,” he exhales, “if this really isn’t a joke, all I can
tell you is that the person these cards are talking about is in
imminent and very grave danger.”
“He’s dead,” says Wiggins softly.
“Perhaps he was a disreputable person; I very much
doubt his fate was pleasant. If these cards were drawn just
before he died, they foretold his destiny. Hopefully his soul
will have an opportunity to make amends.”
We leave in silence so as not to disrupt the meditations
of the medium, who seems rather perturbed by what he’s just
read in the cards.
 53 WC Area EC
The door to the residence is locked, and we daren’t break
in as we have no assurance the occupant has departed for his 3 EC
office yet. We notice a man, most likely a Dutch sailor to William Morris is travelling to the Antilles to supervise
judge by his attire, sleeping off his intemperance on the pave- the outfitting of his latest ship, The Flying Shell.
ment.
9 EC
75 WC
The station is noisy, and there are so many people that
As we approach Philip Dagit’s office we see a huge no-one is available to assist us.
gathering. Stopping a passerby, we are told that his body
has just been found. The solicitor is as dead as a dodo, a long 18 EC
dagger protruding from his back. We try to gain access to
We learn that Glenn Rand went to the Blue Ball inn
the building, but an officer stops us and tells us to move on so
with some friends.
as not to interrupt the investigators on the scene. Wiggins’s
acting skills are to no avail, and all he is able to glean is the 26 EC
name of the inspector at Scotland Yard who is supervising
the case, one Inspector Bradstreet. “Are you here to hire on?”
The man who greets us looks worried that we will respond
in the negative and is unable to conceal his disappointment
when we tell him the reason for our visit.
“Guess what, gentlemen, every one of our dockers has
gone on strike since that Flying Dutchman berthed at London
Docks and had its whole crew taken out. They say the boat’s
haunted and are demanding its departure. They wouldn’t go
back there even if we offered them every last sovereign in the
Empire. And all because of a stupid ghost story We tried
to contact the owner, Mr. Griggs, but drew a blank, so if you
know him or happen across him, please let him know about our
problems. Hopefully he comes up with a solution fast, other-
wise life at London Docks will become unsustainable.”

30 EC
Although it’s outside of his usual remit, Henry Ellis agrees
to provide us with the following information: Glenn Rand is
not currently at his offices, but we might find him at either the
Black Crown or the Bishop’s Finger, the inns in which he
spends most of his waking hours. He also tells us that per-
sonal ads are paid for in person, so there’s no way to know
who requested them.

31 EC
The hotel clerk confirms that a Michael Lee stayed at
the hotel. He arrived on the 5th of October but has dis-
appeared. He asked for the address of a typical inn and
was directed to the Star & Plow, a recommendation that we and the people committing the crime did so in a manner that
wholeheartedly approve. meant the victims did not die immediately but suffered for as
long as possible before they succumbed. My view is that it
35 EC was retaliation, a settling of scores, and there’s only one per-
Quintin Hogg is almost bursting with delight to sees us. son in London brazen enough for that. Professor James
“So are you investigating the massacre on the docks? Or Moriarty needs no introduction, and you doubtless recognized
is it the women who’ve gone missing there? Or perhaps both! his handiwork.”
Come on, spill the beans, I’m dying to know. I’ve just got
back from a trip and I want to know everything.” 46 EC
As he knows nothing, Wiggins does not fill him in on We’re told that Taylor Godbolt is away at the docks
what we know, and we depart. inspecting his vessels. His partner John Clay can’t see us
right now but offers to meet with us the next day.
36 EC
Edward Hall is enjoying a cup of tea with Basil York, 52 EC
one of his friends, and invites us to join them. “Good morning, gentlemen, what can I do for you?”
“As chance would have it, I was just talking to Ba- Porky, congenial as ever, presses hot toddies into our
sil about you. We were saying that if all of the officers in hands while Wiggins sets out the reason for our visit.
this fine old city followed your insightful investigative example, As Wiggins concludes, Porky leans forward conspirato-
hardly a crime would go unpunished in London. Perhaps rially, “Strange things are afoot at the Docks right now. The
even the dishonest dealings of a certain Jimmy Griggs, Mori- massacre and the disappearances are bad for business, sure.
arty’s little puppet, would draw to a close. It was bound to scare customers away. So just think, once
“The man was in up to his eyeballs in money laundering, we saw this boat The Flying Dutchman pull into harbour,
but we’ve never been able to pin anything on him and his slate there was hardly anyone hanging around any more at night,
is regrettably clean. If anyone knows how to cover his tracks just like in the legend. And another thing, none of the dockers
it’d be him. He goes about it the same way as his master, too: wanted to go near its cargo. Luckily the owner didn’t seem in
torture, executions, threats, blackmail… it’s got to the point much of a hurry to unload.
where no juror would dare sit opposite him, hasn’t it Basil?” “Now if you ask me, my take on all that is that it has the
“You’re not wrong, Edward. If you’re interested, gen- whiff of the professor about it, know what I mean? Traffic
tleman, I have a complete dossier at my house of everything a few white women off to Tangiers, and presto, you’re in the
the man’s done, and I’ll let you see it if you like. There’s little money. No one wants to look too closely at the boat on ac-
of interest going on here this morning, and I have nothing count of its reputation, not even for three days. The dockers
urgent on my plate. We can go now if you want.” have sworn off working around it, and Aberdeen Naviga-
Accepting his offer, we bid Edward Hall farewell and tion, Cunard, Guion and Bloggs are all hiring. If all that
he earnestly expresses his desire that we solve the case at the whets your appetite for more, maybe go see Matthew Russel
earliest opportunity. since he’s the one in the know about what’s going down at the
docks. He’s an old mate of mine, right, and an honest docker,
38 EC inasmuch as any of them are. I’m not saying money doesn’t
Sir Jasper Meeks calls us into his office, where we have find its way into his pocket from time to time ‘cos he doesn’t
some difficulty finding a seat on account of its being cluttered look too closely, but if you tell him I sent you, he’ll treat you
with all manner of files and papers. After Wiggins almost like family.
knocks over a skeleton on a stand, we hear what the doctor “So how’s the drink, my boys? Old Porky Shinwell’s
has to say. special recipe, straight from Holland, warms up the sailors
“All we know about the massacre is that the level of vio- when it’s cold out on deck.”
lence was deliberate, most likely to set an example. The vic- We enjoy the delicious concoction, pay, then leave the
tims were literally pummeled to death with long blunt weapons, inn.
 60 EC 88 EC
We’re met by the inspector himself. His invitation to The Black Crown inn is deserted.
share a cup of tea is much appreciated, as a devilishly cold
wind is howling through London’s streets today. 89 EC
“I am investigating the massacre on the docks, as you James Long is in anguish and refuses to talk about his
no doubt know, but I must confess that I have no serious daughter.
leads so far. All of the men who were killed were sailors
with exemplary records, and other than some sort of reckon- 92 EC
ing gone sour, I don’t see what might have resulted in such a
“Good Old Porky sent you, eh? Well if you’re alright by
bloodbath.”
him you’re alright by me. I can’t tell you much about what’s
We chat a while longer about nothing of import, then bid
been going on at the docks of an evening, and besides, it’s
him farewell.
become extremely dangerous to go down there at night since
79 EC that damned Flying Dutchman tied up. That godawful boat
belongs to Jimmy Griggs, bit of an oddball that one, and defi-
Calberough Works is a hive of activity when we arrive. nitely not above board. You rarely see him ‘round, but he’s
There is constant shouting from all directions, and we struggle mixed up in all sorts of shady shenanigans. You be wary of
to find someone to point us in the direction of the manager’s him now, he’s got a long arm and ‘e’ll soon send you to his
office. The manager is Irish, as clearly evidenced by his mates who’ll give you a second smile with their cutlasses. All
nameplate, which bears the name Gary O’Grady in capital of the guys who were found dead at the docks, it was in The
letters. He has no qualms about talking to us, pausing only to Times even, that was the crew of the ghost ship that Old Nick
mention that time is money, as he is expecting a lot of custom- summoned back to ‘im. A friend o’ mine saw it all, his name’s
ers will be coming to see him over the course of the day and Ludwig Kahn, but keep it to yourself, right? I’m only telling
he’s worried that they won’t be able to produce enough silk you this because you’re pals with Porky.
laid paper to meet the demand, which is projected to result in “Go and see Ludwig, tell him you spoke to me, he’ll let
record turnover. you know how it went down that night. And not a word to
“Decks of cards are a new line for us. So far we’ve only Scotland Yard, his situation is a bit unusual, if you will, ‘cos
made them available in one store, a toy shop called Parsons he doesn’t have any papers. He’s staying with a friend, a
& Sons, I believe. Please, I must insist that you give these man by the name of Neils Larsen whose activities and ac-
a try - they’re manufactured using a new process that should complices ain’t what you would call on the level.”
make them virtually indestructible.”
He gives each of us a deck, and after a courteous farewell
we depart. Wiggins notes that the deck is an exact replica of
the one he saw in H.R. Murray’s laboratory.

83 EC
No one is in the office apart from one secretary, who tells
us that the staff were summoned to work on the docks because
the dockers’ superstitious fears meant they no longer wanted to
work. As we look like exactly the sort of person they’re look-
ing for, what with our sturdy, well-built physiques, we head
out of the door before we can be hired.
 Questions

Part One

1. What is the name of The Flying Dutchman’s previous captain?

2. What is the ship’s cargo?

3. What kind of ship is it?

4. Why was Sherlock Holmes interested in cards?

5. What message persuaded Sherlock Holmes to take the case?

Part Two

1. In the message from Fred Porlock, what does 1841 refer to?

2. What method does Arnold Sutro use to interpret the cards?

3. What do the marks on the cards signify?

4. What do the letters R.W. stand for?

 Solution
When we enter 221b Baker Street, Holmes and Watson are both stood next to fireplace, warming
themselves before the roaring fire within.
“Good morning, gentlemen, good morning ... So the good Doctor Watson harbored some doubts about
my sanity? Well it’s not the first time, Doctor, nor will it be the last, nicht wahr?”
“You speak German, Holmes?”
“Oh, just the odd word - odd words like Tannhäuser, Fliegenden Holländer, to name but a few...”
“So you were, indeed, investigating the Flying Dutchman?”
“Quite so, my friends, quite so. I was contacted by Fred Porlock in the Times (you didn’t miss his mes-
sage, I’m sure) because our diabolical Professor concocted a Machiavellian plot, as is his wont.
“This time he’d set himself up in the white slave trade. It was imperative to thwart his plans as they were
international in nature. I must say that he had a spot of bad luck with the death of his brooding Dutch captain,
Jack Ludlam, who undoubtedly got the idea from London’s criminal mastermind.
“Using the Flying Dutchman’s legendary curse as cover to warn off dockers and anyone showing too
much curiosity, he captured young women for sale on the Tangiers slave market.”
“I think I know why Fred Porlock helped us.”
“Do tell, Wiggins, do tell...”
“Catherine Tate. It would appear that she and Porlock are in love...”
“Well deduced Wiggins, well deduced. But I think you’ve lost a lot of time on this minor detail. Still,
the message from Porlock was clear: Have a look inside the Flying Dutchman.
“I must admit,” Holmes continues, “that even I did not go to the ship right away; I wanted to meet
with Porlock first to shed light on this card story, as it was obvious that the marks they bore were not there by
chance. And that was where I found the solution.”
“Likewise, Holmes, likewise.”
“You see, it was elementary, my dear Watson, so it was logical that you found it. My grandmother used
to do cartomancy and also made those marks. They indicate if the cards are straight or reversed, as that’s
supposed to change the interpretation.”
“So there are two things we can already deduce. The first is that Moriarty was not captured. His tactics
are irrefutable evidence that he had a backup plan. The second is that the wealth of information on the cards
could easily be used as a code for transmitting messages.
“I’ve been mulling over this idea, and believe that if implemented correctly, it’s a technique that could be
useful to us in more than one way. Just think about all those fortune tellers - how beneficial would it be if we
could use them to covertly pass instructions to our own band of investigators? The underworld is superstitious,
and that’s a weakness that we must use to gain the upper hand, wouldn’t you say?
 Holmes
Sherlock Holmes solved the case in 2 clues: Fred Porlock at Parsons & Sons (18 NW),
and the Flying Dutchman at London Docks (94 E). He also used the “Personals” and
“Arrivals” sections in The Times and the articles “Massacre on the Docks,” and “Death
at Sea.”
His score is 100 points.

Score

Part One
1. What is the name of The Flying Dutchman’s previous captain? Jack Ludlam. (10 points)

2. What is the ship’s cargo? Abducted women, hidden in agricultural machinery. (30
points)

3. What kind of ship is it? A three-masted barque in very bad condition. (30 points)

4. Why was Sherlock Holmes interested in cards? To conceive of a code for use in covert
correspondence. (10 points)

5. What message persuaded Sherlock Holmes to take the case? The message from Fred Por-
lock in the Times “SH, c.f. JM - Opéra Paris 1841.” (20 points)

Part Two
1. In the message from Fred Porlock, what does 1841 refer to? The year “The Flying Dutch-
man” opera was composed. (25 points)

2. What method does Arnold Sutro use to interpret the cards? The fortune-telling method
used by Etteilla. (25 points)

3. What do the marks on the cards signify? They indicate the orientation of the cards - up-
right or reversed. (25 points)

4. What do the letters R.W. stand for? Richard Wagner. (25 points)
Written By: Jean Millemann
Originally Published in: Role Mag’ #5, March/April 1991

Translated By: Graham Penny

Edited By: Graham Penny & David Czechowski
Page Layout and Graphics By: David Czechowski

Cover Font: http://dirt2.com/fonts/dead-secretary/

Cover Texture: Passagere; https://pixabay.com/en/texture-blue-green-gradient-wall-934511/
Cover Overlay: cap-tag, http://cap-tag.deviantart.com/art/Papyrus-Grunge-Wallpaper-84286627
Cover Overlay: Piotr Siedlecki, http://www.publicdomainpictures.net/view-image.php?image=71408
Cover Inset Image: Jakub T Jankiewicz’s “Loom in Crystal Ball”, https://www.flickr.com/photos/jcubic/11388948484
Cover Inset Border: http://www.freeimages.com/photo/grunge-border-5-1166363
Palm Weave Texture: by Calsidyrose; https://www.flickr.com/photos/calsidyrose/3510491715
Paper Texture: https://www.flickr.com/photos/calebkimbrough/4691644631
Report & Note Backgrounds: Freeimages.com/A.Hulme
Playing Cards: Standard French Double-Image Pattern by Nicholas Marie Gatteaux, 1827, 1853
Violin: Harper’s New Monthly Magazine 1881
Lilly Langtry: Actress and socialite Lillie Langtry photographed by William Downey, 1885
British Institution: “British Gallery, Pall Mall”, London. Vol. VI, London: H.G. Bohn, 1851
Notebook: “Vintage Memo Notepad” by Flickr: Calsidyrose
Dock Scene: Union Navy Base, Mayport Mills; Harpers Weekly, 1862
Shady Inn: Les mystères de Paris, vol. 1, 1843
Victorian border: The National and Domestic History of England (Vol 2) by William Hickman Smith Aubrey, 1878
Lady of the Court of Louis XVth: Fisher’s Drawing Room Scrap Book by H.Robinson, 1849
Newspaper & Booklet Text: «The Fell Types are digitally reproduced by Igino Marini. www.iginomarini.com»
Originally Published in Role Mag’ #5
March/April 1991
N° 33 451
The
BIRTHS
O n the 6th inst., at the China Legation Hospital,
to Cibyl Smith, the wife of KWAO CHANG
KWAI, of a daughter, Pearl.
O n the 7th. inst, at Clavin House, to Lindsay
Merrit, wife of JOHN MERRIT, of a son.
MarriageS
O n the 7th. inst, in Bombay, JAMES FLOYD
and RUTH FLANAGAN, daughter of
KEVIN FLANAGAN, well-known shipowner and
proprietor of many concerns in the East Indies.
O n the 7th inst., at St. Marylebone Parish
Church, SIR REGINALD EUSTON, son
of LORD EUSTON, and EVELYN BALMOR-
AL, niece of LORD BALMORAL, adviser to Her
Most Gracious Majesty.
DEATHS
O n the 7th. inst, at home, Rose Alaio, famous
fortuneteller, during the night. Inspector
Lestrade of Scotland Yard is treating the death as
suspicious, and the house has been sealed off. Many
of the deceased’s fellow “readers” are considering
filing a complaint at being prevented from paying
their last respects to their colleague. Our reporter
Glenn Rand is investigating whether the complaint
is intended to conceal an attempt to ransack the de-
ceased’s residence, which experts indicate would be
a veritable trove of fortune-telling records.
O n the 5th. inst, Master Vincent Randolph, in
his study. It would appear that he died while
attempting to repair the large crystal chandelier
hung there, which accidentally became detached
and crushed him under its weight.
ANOTHER WOMAN MISSING NEAR THE
DOCKS
The daring kidnappers operating along London’s
waterfront have struck again. A young lady called
Jenny Trent disappeared during the previous night.
Police advise that they are close to bringing those
responsible to justice. We wish them well in that
endeavour, as it would be a major loss of face for
them if a fifth person were to disappear.
ARRIVALS
O n the 4th Oct. at Outer Docks, LIVING-
STONE, owned by Louis Chardon, carrying
fish.
O n the 5th Oct. at London Docks, THE FLY-
ING DUTCHMAN, owned by Jimmy
Griggs, carrying agricultural machinery.
O n the 5th Oct. at Commercial Docks, THE
LADY FLANAGAN, owned by Taylor God-
bolt, carrying manufactured goods.
O n the 6th Oct. at West India Docks, THE
MERRY RUNAROUND, owned by Wil-
liam Morris, carrying spices.
O n the 6th Oct at St. Katherine Docks, THE
SEA BIRD, owned by Calvin Reece, carrying
exotic woods.
O n the 6th Oct. at Limehouse, THE FEAR-
LESS, owned by Count d’Albert, carrying
perishables.
O n the 7th Oct. at East India Docks, THE
HOLY JOHN, owned by John Clay, carry-
ing tea.
O n the 7th Oct at New Shadwell Basin, KING
GEORGE, owned by Mitchell Rourke, car-
rying ore.
ABCBD
LONDON, FRIDAY OCTOBER 9, 1891
3 MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENTS
N OTICE OF SALE: the study of Master Ru-
dolph at 31 Orchard Street is for sale follow-
ing the death of its owner. His heirs wish to point
out the beauty of these fully-restored premises, in
particular the magnificent crystal chandelier that
was maintained by the late owner, a very particular
man, as his many clients will attest.
N OTICE: Edison & Swan wishes to inform its
loyal customers, shareholders and employ-
ees that contrary to current rumour, there are no
plans to expand its factories or acquire any of its
competitors, and would remind those responsible
for spreading this gossip that they are prepared to
bring the culprits to justice, as such hearsay can de-
value our securities.
B
IG SALE of substandard silk laid paper on
Monday, 12th Oct. between 9 am and 5 pm at
Calberough’s warehouses, 79 EC. Take this oppor-
tunity to obtain letter-quality paper from Calber-
ough Works, the only one that comes with a genu-
ine certificate of authenticity.
PERSONAL &c.
C
ome home, Marion, I have the best. WS
S ir Francis, your club has misplaced your address.
Please contact them.
C astle in Scotland seeks ghost to liven up its
dark, dank corridors. Poltergeists need not
apply.
S H, c.f. JM - Paris Opera 1841.
R W - the HV seeks JG to replace predecessor.
Contact immediately. Pr KN
L arge reward to anyone providing information
on the whereabouts of Catherine Tate, missing
since the 5th inst. Write to Lester Tate, 69 E..
MISCELLANEOUS
T
alk to the dead. ARNOLD SUTRO, famed
medium, is available for any invocation.
C onstable Publishing House is seeking any in-
formation on Romanian and Transylvanian
culture for a theatre play. Also on the lookout for
any Germanic legend to do with the sea. Contact
MR EDWARD TOBIN at Constable Publishing,
corner of Osnaburgh Street and Enton Road, 4
NW.
O n the 17th inst., friends and admirers of Lord
Byron will hold their annual conference at
8:30 pm at the usual location. All members are asked
to attend. Events include readings of extracts from
the poet’s work and poems by his friend Mr. Shel-
ley.
B EWARE of imitations! Write your letters on
genuine silk laid paper, tastefully scented with
rosewood, from Calberough Works, 79 EC. Un-
scrupulous merchants have been selling many imi-
tations - ask to see the certificate of authenticity
included with each batch, the only guarantee of
Calberough-quality paper.
HOTELS
T he Midland Grand Hotel, large rooms, beauti-
ful suites, stylishly appointed. Private rooms
for receptions, conventions and meetings. Quality
refined dining.
D acre Hotel, many rooms, ideal for short stays.
Affordable meals.
MASSACRE ON THE DOCKS
The bodies of 25 sailors were discovered this morn-
Times. Price: 3d.
ing at London Docks in a condition that suggested
their murder was particularly atrocious.
According to Inspector Lestrade of Scotland Yard,
it appears to have been an act of revenge, as there
was significant evidence of a brawl between two
armed groups. The only clue left for our brave jus-
tices of the peace is a deck of cards found next to
one of the victims, whose cleanliness suggests that
they were placed there after the massacre.
All of the sailors were in the service of Jimmy
Griggs, the shipowner. The bodies have been sent
to St. Bartholomew’s Hospital for further examina-
tion. We will inform you of any further develop-
ments in tomorrow’s edition.
DEATH AT SEA
Captain JACK LUDLAM has died at sea after be-
ing swept overboard as his boat sailed to the coast
of Spain out of Amsterdam. The ship has diverted
to London to report to the owner and appoint a
new captain.
SITUATIONS
T
UTOR REQUIRED to educate young chil-
dren from the Indian Empire. Contact the
newspaper under reference JM670 attaching your
curriculum vitae and references. Excellent posting,
ideal for former member of Indian Army.
M etalworkers sought for General Electric fac-
tories. Send curriculum vitae to the newspa-
per under reference N80.
U RGENT now hiring many dockworkers.
Contact Aberdeen Navigation Co.
THEFT FROM ARMY DEPOT
A daring burglary occurred at the army depot dur-
ing the night of the 6th inst. The military authori-
ties have stated the effects taken by the criminals
were worthless, but some sources intimated that
arms and ammunition were taken. The investiga-
tion is at a standstill, but Scotland Yard’s investiga-
tors have an enviable reputation and the offenders
should be arrested soon.
ENTERTAINMENTS, &c.
T his evening at COVENT GARDEN THE-
ATER, 30 WC, a Paris-style grand revue. Ad-
mission 2s. Compère MADEMOISELLE LULU
comes to us exclusively from the famous Moulin
Rogue cabaret.
S
tatue exhibition at Drury Lane Theatre during
the week of 12th to 18th Oct. Many statues on
show by sculptor Onslow Ford, who will be at the
show for the whole day of the 14th. Admission 1s.
C onference on fortune telling and the future
through cartomancy, 8 pm today at the Mid-
land Grand Hotel. The speaker, Mr. ARNOLD
SUTRO, will be selling his much-publicized book
“The Future through Fortune Telling”, published
by Sleuth Publications.
R
ichard Wagner retrospective at Tivoli Music
Hall all week from 8:30 pm. Including The
Ring of the Nibelung, The Flying Dutchman,
Tristan and Isolde, Tannhäuser, Lohengrin and the
Siegfried Idyll, details on location. Mark Leuker,
musical curator and critic, will host a presentation
on his works and their influence on the current gen-
eration of musicians.