The Reigate Puzzle - Arthur Conan Doyle

“The Reigate Puzzle” (also known as “The Reigate Squire”) is a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, featuring Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. It was first published in The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes in 1893.

The story begins with Dr. Watson accompanying Sherlock Holmes to the countryside near Reigate for rest and recovery after an exhausting case in France. Despite his need for rest, Holmes becomes involved in a local mystery. The Cunningham family, prominent landowners, report a burglary in which a coachman is murdered. A fragment of a note found in the dead man’s hand suggests a deeper conspiracy.

Holmes begins to investigate, uncovering inconsistencies in the evidence provided by the Cunninghams. He cleverly devises a ruse to draw out the culprits, proving that the father and son orchestrated the crime in an attempt to cover up a financial scandal. Holmes' deductive prowess reveals that the note fragment was a vital clue in solving the murder.

The story highlights Holmes' brilliance and showcases his sharp intellect, even when unwell, as he unravels the layers of deceit and brings the criminals to justice.