Chapter 10: Extract from the Diary of Dr. Watson

In this chapter, the narrative shifts back to Dr. Watson’s point of view, who has been left behind at Baskerville Hall while Holmes investigates the case. Watson spends his time exploring the moor and talking with the locals. One night, he hears the sound of the hound and finds Sir Henry’s discarded boot on the moor. He brings the boot back to the Hall, and Holmes returns the next day with news of the arrest of Selden. Holmes is intrigued by Watson’s account of the hound and the discovery of the boot, which suggests that the hound may be real and not just a legend.

Watson is also intrigued by the behavior of Sir Henry, who has become increasingly nervous and agitated. He tells Watson that he has received an anonymous letter warning him to leave the country and that he fears for his life. Holmes suggests that they keep a close eye on Sir Henry and accompany him whenever he leaves the house.

Holmes and Watson visit the nearby town of Coombe Tracey, where they meet with a Dr. Mortimer. Dr. Mortimer provides them with more information about the legend of the hound and the curse on the Baskerville family. He also tells them about a portrait of Hugo Baskerville, which hangs in the local church and is said to come to life during thunderstorms. Holmes is intrigued by this information and decides to visit the church.

At the church, Holmes and Watson meet with the local vicar and examine the portrait of Hugo Baskerville. They notice that there is a message written on the back of the portrait, which suggests that Hugo was a cruel and violent man. They also notice that there is a second message, which has been partially erased. Holmes deduces that the second message must have been a warning about the hound and that it was probably erased by someone who did not want the warning to be discovered.

The chapter ends with Holmes and Watson returning to Baskerville Hall and discussing their findings. They are both convinced that there is more to the legend of the hound than just a superstition, and that they must find out the truth before it is too late.

Overall, this chapter is important in establishing the idea that the hound may be real and not just a legend. It also introduces the character of Dr. Mortimer, who provides important information about the curse on the Baskerville family. The discovery of the message on the back of the portrait of Hugo Baskerville is a significant clue in the investigation and adds to the sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding the case.