Grimesby Roylott. Holmes was only used to promise Helen Stoner's protection from her father-in-law. Although he hit the snake, it was in self-defense to protect himself. When the snake reached Dr. Roylott's room, Holmes had no way of knowing that Dr. Roylott would be bitten by it. Although it may have been difficult, Holmes could have thought a little before wondering what might happen. As a result, Helen could be happily married with the ultimate knowledge of what goes on behind her father-in-law's bedroom door. Sherlock Holmes felt the stunning outcome of this difficult case, even though it may have cost him his