"How did you know I had a visitor with me?" asked Watson in amazement. "I sometimes believe you have eyes in the back of your head!"
"I don't, but I do have a very well polished silver coffeepot in front of me!" Holmes laughed. "And whom do I have the pleasure of greeting?" he asked.
"I am Dr. James Mortimer, Mr. Holmes. It concerns the death of my good friend and patient, Sir Charles Baskerville. Sir Charles Baskerville had no children, so his entire estate (财产) now pass to his nephew, Sir Henry Baskerville, who has been living in America for many years." Dr. Mortimer took a letter out of his pocket which was given to him by Sir Charles just before his death 3 months ago. " If I may, I should like to read the letter to you." He adjusted his glasses.
"Baskerville Hall, 1742. To my sons, Rodger and John. The legend (传说，传奇) has been told by my father who was told by his father before him. It began 100 years ago in 1642 when this great Baskerville Hall was occupied (占有) by Hugo Baskerville —a wild, ugly, cruel man. Hugo wanted to marry the daughter of a neighbouring farmer. One day, with his five evil friends, he rode to the farm and kidnapped the girl. He brought her to Baskerville Hall and locked her in an upstairs room while he and his friends having a drinking party below. The poor girl was very frightened, but she managed to climb out of the window. Hugo, however, soon noticed that she had gone. He chased the girl on his black horse with his hunting dog showing the way. His friends joined the chase until a strange sight stopped them. There lay two bodies--Hugo's and the girl's. Standing over Hugo's body was a huge black beast (野兽) tearing out his throat (喉咙) .
"I really don't like fairy tales "said Holmes. "What exactly is it you want me to do?"
"I need you to advise me what to do with Sir Henry Baskerville who's arriving here today".
