[There is a fair amount of shuffling on the other end once the line connects — as though Sholmes has had to unearth his phone from under a pile of mess once it had started chirping for his attention. His voice reflects some manner of effort when he replies, belatedly, though he isn’t immune from the surprise of 1) van Zieks contacting him out of the blue (indicative of some import, no doubt) and 2) the news itself.]
My good fellow— [He finally manages.] —what do you mean gone?
no subject
My good fellow— [He finally manages.] —what do you mean gone?