In the most recent FT's Mythconceptions, someone writes in to ask if anyone else heard that the Victorians used sewer gas to light their gas lamps in the street (before electricity became the norm). I have never heard of this, and am pretty sure the writer-in is mistaken, but just in case: any truth to this?
FFS I took the title of this literally and was picturing:
Watson: I say old chap, it's frightfully dark out. Can't see a thing. We'll never catch Moriarty in this darkness.
Holmes: Never fear Watson, I anticipated this situation and took appropriate steps.
Watson: Well that's a relief. I assume you brought a lantern then?
Holmes: On the contrary Watson, a constant source of light would give away our position.
Watson: So what did you do?
Holmes: Do you remember that I insisted that we dine on a double helping of baked beans this evening at the Bear
and Barley Inn?
Watson: I do indeed. They have been plaguing me.
Holmes: Plaguing us both I am sure Watson, but I have with me some half dozen boxes of matches, and if we can control our flatulence in the presence of flame, this should afford a moment of high illumination for a brief moment that will allow us the visibility we need, while not betraying our position for more than a second or two.
Watson: Why Holmes, that's diabolically clever.
Holmes: You are assuming the plan will work Watson.