Milverton blackmails Mary, exploiting her dalliance in antigovernment activities as a student. Sherlock decides to sneak into Milverton's estate to steal his evidence, but even that act was anticipated. Sherlock finds that he is not the only trespasser.

William aims to complete his plan with his death, as Albert and the others each carry out their roles. Meanwhile, Sherlock deduces William's true reason for having him vanquish the Lord of Crime. Overlooking London, the pair face each other one last time.