Today's prompt from Aleine Skyfire: The end of an era.

A 221B to finish off the 2016 challenge. I wish all of you a happy New Year, filled with many stories and joy!

"It's been a long time, my dear friend, hasn't it?" Holmes remarked, looking fondly at Watson, in a way he would have thought unthinkable when they first met. Now, though, as an older and wiser man, he did not bother to hide how much their friendship meant to him, especially on an occasion such as this.

Watson returned the look, feeling his own wave of affection for his oldest and dearest friend. "It certainly has. I just wish it had been a happier event that brought us back together again."

Their gazes travelled over to the church, where a large crowd were already gathering for the funeral. Some were crying, while some just stood there stoically; others just seemed happy to catch up with their old friends who were also attending.

"He lived a good life," Watson continued, eyes still on the gathering. "His death will be a loss to the whole of London. So many people have reason to be grateful for his efforts. I must confess, however," he continued, turning to Holmes with a wistful smile, "that what I will always be most grateful for, is that he introduced me to you."

Holmes and Watson joined arms, and walked into Stamford's funeral together. For this man, who had introduced them many decades earlier, they would always count themselves blessed.