Sherlock Holmes · Character
John Horner
- Minor
- First seen · Book 2 · Ch. 8
He emerges as the wronged everyman, his trade-worn hands and steady gaze speaking of quiet dignity amid accusation's shadow. There's a resilience in his bearing, the kind that weathers suspicion without breaking.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- 26
- First appears
- Book 2 · Ch. 8
- Books
- 1
John Horner appears in only one case within the Sherlock Holmes canon, yet his ordeal in 'The Adventure of the Beryl Coronet' crystallizes the series' recurring theme of justice miscarried and restored. A 26-year-old plumber with a prior conviction, Horner is swiftly arrested when the priceless Beryl Coronet is damaged and a gem goes missing from the home of banker Alexander Holder. Holmes's investigation reveals that Holder's dissolute nephew, Arthur, is the true culprit, exonerating Horner and underscoring the detective's role as defender of the unjustly accused.
Description
John Horner is a plumber of 26 years, his appearance that of a working man shaped by honest trade—sturdy and practical.
Story so far
BOOK 2The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
- Employed to repair a faulty shower at Alexander Holder's residence, Horner is left alone with the Beryl Coronet.
- The coronet is damaged and a gem is stolen; Horner's previous conviction leads to his immediate arrest.
- Sherlock Holmes takes the case and quickly identifies Arthur Holder as the real thief.
- Horner is released from custody after Holmes proves his innocence, restoring his reputation.
Appearances
Meet John Horner in Bookworm
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