Question

Who was Helen stoner ? Comment on her appearance at Sherlock Holmes chambers.

Answer 1

Helen Stoner is the young woman who travels to London to seek out Holmes' help with a problem involving her stepfather. Helen and her sister Julia lived with their stepfather, Dr. Roylott, after the death of their mother.

The physical description of Miss Stoner which is provided certainly paints a picture of a woman who is haunted by the death of her sister and living in a state of fear. Doyle remarks that Helen has “restless, frightened eyes” and compares her to a “hunted animal.” It is also mentioned that Helen’s hair has “premature grey”, a physical feature which is no doubt the result of the stressful life she lives, haunted by her sister’s death and tormented by her abusive father.