I long for spiritual elevation. That is why I have chosen my own profession, or rather, created it, as I am the only person in the world who practices it.

Mary Morstan receives a large pearl by post once a year, with no indication of the sender. When her intriguing correspondent requests a meeting, Holmes and Watson take on the case. Together, the trio sets off through London to uncover the secrets of the Sholto family, which hold the key to finding Mary’s father and the existence of a treasure stemming from a crime committed in India years ago.

"The Sign of the Four" has been an essential part of the Sherlock Holmes canon since its first publication in 1890. It explores theft, betrayal, and murder in the broader context of the British Empire during a time of national upheaval, and the novel's flashbacks to India during the uprising and its aftermath question the consequences of this imperial venture. Caroline Reitz's new introduction and notes draw attention to some often-overlooked contexts of the story, such as its original publication in Lippincott's Monthly Magazine, the portrayal of imperial violence, and changing gender roles.

About the series: For over 100 years, Oxford World's Classics has offered the largest selection of literature from around the world. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship and provides the most accurate text along with a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading scholars, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.