Tonight, we’ll read the opening to the second novel featuring Sherlock Holmes, “The Sign of the Four.” It was published in 1890 and written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyal.

Sherlock referred to himself as a "consulting detective" in the stories, and is known for his proficiency with observation, deduction, forensic science, and logical reasoning that borders on the fantastic.

Written from the point of view of Holmes’ friend Dr. Watson, “The Sign of the Four” has a complicated plot involving Indian colonial service, a stolen treasure, and a secret pact among four convicts.