Horace Danby's Arrest by a Policeman

Horace Danby is a fictional character in the short story "The Necklace of Pearls" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The story revolves around Danby, a respectable and law-abiding citizen who leads a double life as a notorious thief. He steals valuable items from wealthy people and sells them to a fence named Beppo.

The Crime

Danby's downfall begins when he steals a valuable necklace of pearls from the home of a wealthy woman named Mrs. Burnett-Smith. He had been planning the heist for weeks and had even rented a house under a false name to use as a base of operations. However, when he breaks into Mrs. Burnett-Smith's home, he discovers that the necklace is being kept in a safe that he cannot crack.

The Plan

Danby realizes that he needs help and turns to his friend, a locksmith named Mr. Wilson. He convinces Mr. Wilson to help him crack the safe by telling him that he has forgotten the combination to his own safe and needs to retrieve some important documents. Mr. Wilson agrees and successfully opens the safe, allowing Danby to steal the necklace.

The Arrest

However, Danby's luck runs out when he is spotted by a policeman while leaving Mrs. Burnett-Smith's home. The policeman becomes suspicious and questions Danby, who tries to bluff his way out of the situation by claiming that he is a private detective hired by Mrs. Burnett-Smith to investigate a burglary. However, the policeman is not convinced and arrests Danby on suspicion of theft.

The Confession

At the police station, Danby is questioned by Inspector Montgomery, who is initially skeptical of Danby's story. However, Danby eventually confesses to the theft and admits that he has been stealing valuable items for years. He also reveals the identity of his fence, Beppo, and Inspector Montgomery is able to apprehend him as well.

The Punishment

Danby is eventually convicted of theft and sentenced to seven years in prison. His reputation is ruined, and he is left to contemplate the consequences of his actions. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of leading a double life and the importance of honesty and integrity.

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