“No lady would wish to see their husband or father in such a state,” I agreed, then added pointedly, “And I might have responded differently had I been aware you had your doubts.” Holmes inclined his head. “Yes, that is a fair comment.” A VERY fair comment, Holmes. That is a definite misstep from Holmes, though I suppose it shows his innate kindness--wanting to shield the "widow" and daughter from distress. And I suppose Holmes is right, ironically, that emotions can get in the way sometimes of solving cases.