Character Analysis
John Clayton is the cabdriver who carries a disguised Stapleton through London as he follows Sir Henry. Holmes traces John Clayton based on his cab number. Talking to Clayton about his bearded passenger, Holmes finds out that "the cunning rascal" (5.142)—Stapleton, though Holmes doesn't know it yet—told Clayton that he was none other than Sherlock Holmes, ace detective. Stapleton must have seen Holmes in London chasing after him and given Clayton this fake name to mock Holmes.