Work Text:
The seaside is a little cold and overcast, but that's to be expected even at the end of May.
Holmes and Watson have been joyfully reunited for at least a week and have settled into the routines of recreation in this town. Today they are on the Promenade, on their way to the theatre and then one of the restaurants that line the area to feed holiday-goers and sailors on leave.
Despite the cold the boardwalk is full of people. Among the pedestrians is a woman leading three boys of about 6, 7, and 8 years old. All three are dressed in pink suits.
"What smart little soldiers they look," Watson says to the governess. "Such a dashing, manly colour."
The little lads all beam and stand up straighter.
"And you are in good time. The Punch and Judy show does not begin until five minutes after you reach the theatre." Holmes winks at the stunned children (and their startled guardian). "Unless I am dreadfully mistaken and you are all en route to the opera house to enjoy some Mozart."
The boys giggle and the smiling governess shoos her pink-clad charges along.
"They were a bit young to enjoy Die Zauberflöte,'" Watson laughs.
"But they knew a fellow soldier appreciated their somewhat-faded splendour." Holmes squeezed Watson's arm in affection. "Lovely, Brighton."