Chapter Text
“Leaving already? Succeed in flogging the answers out of your victim, have you?”
Hooper’s usual acerbic scorn towards him is on full display as they meet each other in the corridor leading from the mortuary.
“Not MY victim. And yes. There’s a hanging in Wandsworth. Wouldn’t do to turn up…late.”
As he strides past, Holmes catches Hooper’s stifled amusement at his gallows humor. On a lark, he turns back.
“Care to accompany me?” It’s more challenge than question.
Hooper comes to a stunned halt, regarding him doubtfully.
“Nothing about witnessing an execution interests me. I find the entire practice cruel and barbaric.”
“As do I.” Holmes replies carefully, “However barbarous the act, it is never-the-less an opportunity to acquire knowledge. One can hope our justice system will banish such brutality in the future. Until such time, we can help ensure innocent souls don’t face the hangman. I should expect you would take a professional interest in that.”
Hooper’s expression softens. “I suppose there’s always something practical to be learned.”
“Rightly so. Come along then, if convenient.” Holmes gives a half-smile.
“Just let me retrieve my coat. Wandsworth, you say? We’ll be returning late.”
“Perhaps dinner afterwards? There's an excellent establishment off the Marylebone Road. They always offer me extra portions.”
Hooper looks bemused, “I believe I’ve heard that somewhere before.”