These delightful essays affectionately delve into the by-ways of Baker Street, a pursuit Holroyd acknowledges as "one of the greatest as well as the gentlest pleasures of my life." Several essays focus on the illustrated Holmes, discussing among others the work of Sidney Paget and Frederic Dorr Steele. Also included are investigations into the true site and actual furnishings of the apartment at 221B and a history of the scholarship surrounding its famous inhabitants. The final essay, "A Baker Street Portrait Gallery," offers character sketches and an overview of scholarly musings on such beloved characters as Mrs. Hudson, Inspector Lestrade, Mycroft Holmes, and Irene Adler.