The Adventure of the Devil's Foot

Summary

In the story «The Adventure of the Devil's Foot», Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson travel to Cornwall to rest and help Holmes recover his health. However, their holiday is interrupted when the local vicar, Mr. Roundhay, and his friend Dr. Leon Sterndale seek their help in investigating the mysterious death of Brenda Tregennis. Brenda is found dead in her home, while her brothers, George and Owen, are discovered in a state of madness. Holmes uncovers that the tragedy was caused by a rare African poison known as the «devil's foot», which induces hallucinations and death. During the investigation, it is revealed that Dr. Sterndale, who was in love with Brenda, used the poison to avenge her death, believing her brothers were responsible. Holmes chooses not to turn Sterndale over to the authorities, taking into account his motives and suffering.