“What is the name of that inn you spoke of?”
“The Green Dragon.”
~The Adventure of Shoscombe Old Place

Sherlock Holmes and I entered the Green Dragon, an inn recommended to us by Mr. John Mason, our client in this case. I took in the welcoming atmosphere of the old-fashioned establishment. Rich brown paneling on the walls and heavy wooden timbers created a timeless warmth.

After depositing our luggage in the double-bedded room, my companion and I returned to the common room. Holmes struck up a conversation with the landlord about a black spaniel tied in the front hall while I made my way to the bar, intending to refresh myself after an a day-long train journey by sampling the local brew.

I had taken only a few excellent sips when I heard a lively song from a far corner of the room.

“You can search far and wide,
You can drink the whole town dry–”

Turning, I was shocked to see two young boys on a table, dancing with great enthusiasm to their own song. They were clearly well into their cups.

“Disgraceful,” I muttered, both medical and familial instincts thoroughly roused. It was only then that I realized the boys’ feet were not only bare, but covered in thick, furry brown hair. “Good heavens!” I sagged suddenly against the bar. Holmes was at my side in a moment.

“Steady, Watson,” he murmured in my ear. “Those two belong to an unusual and rather rare race. They are quite typical adults among their own people.”

“Good heavens,” I said again, weakly.

“The only brew for the brave and true
Comes from the Green Dragon!”