よみうち英語Read the classics by typingNotes Scene 14: A Heavy Step
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Notes on this scene
Holmes reassures Watson that he need not worry about the client and may be needed to help. He asks him to sit in the armchair and pay close attention. Heavy footsteps approach along the passage and stop outside, followed by an imposing knock. Holmes invites the visitor to enter.
Japanese in this scene
- しなくていい
- A negative verb in the なくて-form followed by いい means “do not have to.” Holmes says there is no need to worry.
- かもしれない
- かもしれない expresses a possibility: “may” or “might.” Holmes applies it first to himself, then to the client.
- 向けていて
- 向ける means to direct something. Its ている form asks Watson to keep his attention directed toward what happens.
Background
- The Baker Street rooms
- Holmes and Watson’s rooms are upstairs, so visitors climb the stairs from the entrance. In scene 8 Holmes says that there are seventeen steps. The approaching footsteps make the tension especially clear here.
Full text: original English and Japanese translation
"Never mind him. I may want your help, and so may he. Here he comes. Sit down in that armchair, Doctor, and give us your best attention."
「依頼人のことは気にしなくていい。きみの助けが要るかもしれないし、彼もそうかもしれない。ほら、来たよ。先生、その肘掛け椅子に座って、しっかり注意を向けていてくれたまえ」
A slow and heavy step, which had been heard upon the stairs and in the passage, paused immediately outside the door. Then there was a loud and authoritative tap.
階段から廊下へと聞こえていた、ゆっくりとした重い足音が、扉のすぐ外で止まった。それから、大きく威厳のあるノックの音がした。
"Come in!" said Holmes.
「どうぞ」とホームズが言った。