"What on earth are we to make of this, Holmes?" I asked, brandishing the scrap of paper under my friend's nose. "A wild-eyed, shaggy-haired creature - obviously a hopeless drunkard - left this with Mrs Hudson, saying only that it was a matter of the greatest importance."
Holmes sighed wearily, and put down his violin. "A communication from a client, no doubt", he said. "Read it to me".
He closed his eyes and leaned back in his armchair. The firelight flickered, sending strange shadows across his face as he concentrated his powerful intellect on the problem.
"To the north lives Herbie the coleoptera, taking magnesium, periodically. He is followed by the Beast - plus one." I began.
"Hmm. Interesting. Pray continue"
"One to the left - the Razumovsky String Quartets, and Leo the first ascends to the Papal Throne. Really, Holmes, it is the most utter nonsense!"
He paused for a moment, then opened his eyes, and said, "On the contrary, Watson. Some meaning is hidden here. It is, however quite a three-pipe problem. Leave me to think".
Some hours later, he rushed into the sitting-room, his eyes bright.
"Watson! There are dark forces at work! We must depart at once - do you have your old army revolver?"
"Yes - but - Holmes! Where are we going? What is this about?" I demanded, surprised by his sudden energy.
"To Euston Station - where else? The answer to this riddle lies in the wild moors around the town of Macclesfield - come, Watson! The game is afoot!"
You can check your answers for this puzzle on Geochecker.com.