Henry: The Game’s Afoot!

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While most know me as a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, who descends from royalty, I’m also somewhat of a detective enthusiast, having cut my teeth on the stories and lore of Detective Sherlock Holmes.

According to Cook, Basil Rathbone set the gold standard for portrayals of Sherlock Holmes, back in the 1930’s.

Now, Cook says when it comes to Sherlock Holmes, there is no better actor at portraying him in the cinema than Basil Rathbone. But I think, if they ever make an all-canine version, there would be no one better than yours truly.

For, I am Sherlock to a T!

Which is why I enjoy going on my constitutionals, where I am able to solve crimes of my own. After all, there’s always a mystery afoot!

Today, for example, I noticed a bush with some suspicious activity.  It appeared to be missing some leaves, and berries.  Wait. Oh crikey, almost forgot. Twas I that ate the berries, and mighty fine, too.

But, I’ve no idea what caused the bush to shed its leaves? No doubt, the result of that maniacal dog that resides next door! It once had me in its clutches, but I, clever dog that I am, managed to escape–with barely my life!

Surely, he purloined them, but for what? Wait. Cook says it wasn’t the dog, but rather, the wind that blew the leaves off. Of course. I knew that all along!

Well, carry on then, Cook. Ah! Here we go. I see one of those beastly rabbits that I often spy at night, hopping out from the shadows—determined to frighten the innocent and royals like me. And this one just gave me the evil eye. Up to no good, I say. Clearly, this rabbit is in search of unsuspecting nobility to lure into its lair, and demand a king’s ransom.

Must investigate further. With nose in position, I cautiously inch closer to the shrub from which the rabbit leaped. Sniff, sniff. Friends, the nose never lies! I suspect a dog has been here, likely held hostage by this cunning bunny.

Cook is rather fond of this new, modern version of “Sherlock,” from the BBC. The second season debuts on PBS’ “Masterpiece” on May 6th. Cook says you should check your local listings for times.

Wait! Sniff, sniff.  Not one dog, mind you, but two! Another sniff and I’ll be able to tell you their breeds.

Sniff, sniff. I’m about to decipher the scent, but—wait! Cook is pulling me away! Confounded, woman! Damn you, leash!

I’m afraid Cook is rather impatient. She knows detective work takes time. Yet, she barely gives me two minutes before she pulls me away. And, though I staunchly dig my paws in, determined not to budge, she is a strong woman, and gets the better of me.

I bark, to no avail, for neither the leash, nor Cook, are to be trifled with.  I lose this time, but be fair warned. In the end, the pen is mightier than the sword, which means, I will prevail!

In the meantime, I have no choice but to follow cook. Carry on, then, Cook. I’m sure we’ll find more suspicious activity ahead.

And, soon we do.  There’s a dog—a Labrador from the looks of him—and his valet is tossing a ball at him. Not just any ball, but the best kind—a tennis ball! And, I’ll be damned! That ball is mine! Indeed, I recognize that scent anywhere. The thieves, the guttersnipes! I will stop at nothing to get that tennis ball back. I will run and pounce on it, faster than that Lab any day. His valet is throwing the ball and the game is once again afoot! One leap and it’ll be mine! Here I go—I’m off!

No, wait! Confound it! CURSE YOU, LEASH!!

Well then. That was, ahem, humiliating. And, now we’re leaving the park. I didn’t get the ball, tethered as I am to Cook. But, there’s sure to be danger ahead. For I see something moving through the shrubs by the school for ragamuffins—those wee ones that I often see lollygagging about, who often ask Cook if they can pet me and do so with such grimy hands.

Royals who moonlight as detectives should be exempt from having to wear a leash. Wouldn’t you agree? Rather undignified, I say!

Something is definitely amiss, my friends, as I see the shrubs being jostled about—what can it be? A bloody rabbit? An unsavory squirrel?

Or, could it be my arch nemesis? YES! That’s it. It’s Moriarty, my mortal enemy–disguised as a cat!

So, Professor Moriarty, we meet again.

Moriarty stares me down. Clearly, he is in terror of my presence. I take stock of the situation, the distance between us, and prepare to attack.

Undo my leash, Cook, and let me at him! Wait, what is this? What are you saying, Cook? We cannot leave now! Not when victory is within my reach. Undo me at once, I say, so that I can go after that rapscallion. Dash you, leash!

Wait, Cook, I must attack!

Sigh.

You may have won for now, Moriarty, but just you wait.

I’ll get you next time!

47 thoughts on “Henry: The Game’s Afoot!”

  1. Remember Sir Henry that although our quarters may seem a bit ‘country’ at least we give you a chance to roam the greens surrounding our home. I’m certain there is a mystery to be solved right in my back yard and you dear sir are the most qualified detective that I know. Perhaps a visit is in order?

    • Madam, I would be most delighted to visit your house in the country, particularly as you state there is a mystery to be solved. I will have my secretary hire a car to take me, as Cook doesn’t seem to be taking my new profession very seriously. Ahem.

    • Funny you mention that, Brenda. I was thinking along the same lines. I’m sure kids everywhere would enjoy the adventures of a dog who would be king. And Henry wholeheartedly agrees!

  3. Oh Henry, your true calling has been thwarted yet again. I’m not sure why Cook doesn’t see it, but keep at it. One day you will make a huge discovery and solve the crime of the century. Maybe THEN she will appreciate you!

    • It pains me to think about it, Michael Ann. I had Moriarty within my grasp. All I needed was an extra minute or so. Twenty tops. But, Cook, always wants to move on and just doesn’t understand the severity of the situation. To think, Moriarty is still on the loose! But not for long, I say!

  4. “Confounded, woman! Damn you, leash!” Sir Henry, mom and I are in stitches over this hilarious account! You are so funny and make me giggle so! I’m sorry Cook doesn’t understand your need to sniff out clues. Imagine how many mysteries you could solve if given more time. Methink Sherlock Holmes could learn a thing or two from you! I’m sorry you weren’t able to get Professor Moriarty but I’m sure you’ll get him next time! 🙂

    • My dear Roxy, Did I really have you in stitches? How many exactly? Of course, I say, the more the merrier! But alas, it is my lot in life that Cook just doesn’t understand my passion for detective work. But I’m so glad that you do. Perhaps you can put in a good word for me? That would be peachy. 😉

  5. Henry good detective work. Our humans seem to spoil our adventures with that darn leash. We think since you are royalty you should be able to roam free! You’ll get them next time!

    Bella and DiDi

    • Thank you, Bella and DiDi. You are quite apt at giving advice, and I am most capable when it comes to solving crimes (if only Cook would give me a chance, that is!). Perhaps, somewhere down the line we can form a team? After all, you never know when you’ll come across a dog who is missing his bone or favorite toy. Think about it. I’m at your service! 😉

    • Cook says she is quite please you like my story, though, between you and I, she had nothing to do with it. It was all me! 😉

    • Thank you, Bongo. Now, if only the humans in our lives could see it our way. Wouldn’t that be lovely? 🙂

  8. Oh Henry dear, I have to agree with Cook on Basil Rothbone, there is no other, although Benedict Cumberbatch does come in a close second and I enjoy this modern version of Sherlock. I also love Inspector Morse – oh well, that’s beside the point. I don’t want to carry on about what Cook and I have in common. Let’s talk about you… I do think you ought to explain to Cook the importance of dealing with the likes of Professor Moriarty, after all your Royal senses are perfectly accurate when detecting deadly enemies.

    • MM–may I call you MM? I understand that’s what Cook calls you, so I do hope I’m not being forward. In any case, I’m so glad you agree with Cook regarding Sherlocks of choice. But don’t you think I’d make a rather dashing Sherlock myself? All I need is a pipe and I’ll be set. Hollywood, here I come, and all that! 😉

    • Thank you, Bassa. It was frustrating to lose Moriarty, when he was so close within my grasp. But Cook can be quite insistent and she does hold the reigns on the leash. I’ve asked her to be my Dr. Watson, and as of now, she’s still thinking about it. We’ll see. Stay tuned!

  11. This is hysterical. “Or, could it be my arch nemesis? YES! That’s it. It’s Moriarty, my mortal enemy–disguised as a cat!” Love it! And Henry is so adorable!

    We seemed to be on the same wave length today.

    • Jayne, dear, Moriarty is indeed my mortal enemy and I, for one, fail to see the humor in it. Am I adorable? I think not. I am of royal blood, after all, which makes me noble.

  12. Poor Sir Henry, chained by his leash! Doesn’t Cook know how important it is for you to read the daily newspaper? The sights you see, the smells you sniff — all that is vital for expanding your world. And how can you “reign” properly and compassionately, without understanding your subjects?!

    • I have a long list of complaints, with the leash situation being at the top. But, poor Cook. She is run so ragged between her work and her blog, that I haven’t the heart to let her the extent of my grievances. So for now, I’ll just let her pet me and scratch my rear. It’s the least I can do for her.

    • Kim, I’m often inside my head. There’s nothing unusual about that. Now, if I could get inside Sherlock’s head, then my life would be complete. 😉

  14. Henry, a puzzle for you.
    Just had a dog breeder ring me wanting a web site designed, he said as he had no budget for the design would I take a puppy as full payment?

    Sounds like a case for you Henry, is this person on our planet or is he elsewhere? Please let me know your fee but as I have no money can I pay in dog biscuits?

    • Robert, you know it is my desire to return to the home of my ancestors as I want to be there for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. If you can make that happen, then I will be most pleased to help you solve your caper. 😉 And I’ll be needing a lifetime of biscuits. 😉

      • I have spoken to the Queens Corgi’s at the palace and they have promised to try and swing an invitation for you.
        But as we are in hard times they can’t promise full board and you may have to bring your own bed.
        They will reply direct to you by telephone but you may hear a paws before they woof at you.

      • Robert, I love your sense of humor! Henry has retired for the evening. (Needs his 12-hour beauty sleep, after all.) So I will let him know of this new development. I just know he’ll be excited to learn about it. It’s the most promising offer he’s had all year!

    • Yes, Susan, I intend to get that Moriarty once and for all–before he gets the better of me!

  16. What a hindrance that leash is to you, Henry. I think you must have a good talk with Cook about that. But then, the laws won’t reliquish you of one altogether. Maybe a longer one.

    • The leash is my cross to bear, Totsy. My lot in life and Lord knows, I deserve better. 😉

  17. This is hilarious! Love this most:
    “Wait. Oh crikey, almost forgot. Twas I that ate the berries, and mighty fine, too.”
    Also, Moriarty as cat. Thanks for making me smile today!

    • You’re welcome, Lisa. Of course, it wasn’t meant to be “hilarious.” I consider myself to be a fine detective. Let’s just say, I have the nose for it. 😉

  19. My person loves the new Sherlock series, too and she told me she has already set the DVR, whatever that is. I think television is boring, although once I saw a cat on it that looked so real I had to bark at it. I figured out quickly that it was just a picture and then I felt kind of silly. Better safe than sorry, though. Good luck catching that Moriarty next time you run into him.

    • Lola, Cook, too, has set the TiVo, whatever that is. I’m excited to watch Sherlock and will see if Cook can make me a cape! 😉

  20. And footprints…did she leave giant footprints?
    Thank you for the heads up on May 6. My husband and I enjoyed Season 1. Will look for it Sunday evening where we live.

    • Be sure to watch, as Cook told me that she’s seen a preview and Season 2 promises to be even better!

  21. ‘No, wait! Confound it! CURSE YOU, LEASH!’ – love that! Isn’t that what they seem to be saying as they insist on checking out the ‘buggers’ in the bushes.

    • Yes, Miss, I am determined to find a way to unleash myself from the leash, so that I may sniff away at my leisure.

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