SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CHISLEHURST MURDERS PART TWENTY TWO

My Dear girl don't you think that I've had enough of the blasted Caves for one night. In fact I will be staying right here until bedtime. Watson cleared his throat loudly. Holmes was being very grumpy and there was tension in the air. What is it Maria? Do tell. He stared at her . His hawkish eyes piercing. She seemed honest enough looking right back at him, a tiny bit defiantly. A spark of passion was a good thing, but she's hiding something. Why is she touching her ear.
Mr Holmes the cave dwellers secure their food by collecting bodies. I don't like to even say it out loud. It disgusts me so much. They don't eat people all the time just when they Can't steal enough to get by. She pleaded just a little for understanding. Not wanting to be judged by her kins customs. Good grief, cannibals?
Said Watson. Oh John. Maybe I should not have said anything. I don't want to be here any longer. She stood up as if to leave.
My Dear whatever's wrong? Asked Watson rising with her, extending his hand as if to steady her. I sniffed and ordered them both to sit down at once. I'm tired and my patience is waning. There is no transport at this late hour. I informed them. So you may as well get comfortable. Now Maria don't you go hurrying off you've given me some excellent insight and I'm very grateful. I managed a genuine smile meeting her tearful eyes I felt a tiny morsel of pity.
I was scared Mr Holmes. If my family catch sight of me here they will drag me back there and I'm still having nightmares from the last time I was here.
Perfectly understandable my poor Lady. I think it's best for you to take a room upstairs as your family have already been here tonight. They may come back through those doors at any moment. There was a commotion outside. Probably just a few drunks Holmes. Said Watson beginning to panic. The rising fear inside was getting worse as the rowdy shouting increased outside. Better get her upstairs. Quickly. I went to help bolt the doors after Sam shot me a look.