Holmes handed Adams the red and white ribbon and a stillness crossed his visage that drew down a sorrow so deep it even moved the stone hearted detective.
“I’m sorry for your loss. You are in grave danger.
“How?”
“In the commission of an unsuccessful murder attempt.”
“Impossible, Hasid is Sufi.”
“But steadfastly loyal to at least one in your firm who proved less loyal to him.”
“I do not understand.”
“If I may I would tell the tale of your family tree that wound about the roots of The Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards like constricting ivy.”