Here's a breakdown:
* Who are they? A group of streetwise and resourceful children living in the slums of London.
* What do they do? They provide Holmes with valuable information, often gathered through their network of contacts and their knowledge of the city's underbelly. They act as his eyes and ears, and their insights are crucial to many of his investigations.
* Their Leader: The leader of the group is often referred to as "the Boss" or "the Chief", but his real name is rarely mentioned.
* Key Members: They include:
* The "Professor": Known for his ability to decipher coded messages.
* Tiger Tim: A young boy with sharp eyesight and great agility.
* The "Red-Headed League": A group of boys hired by a mysterious man to copy from a newspaper.
* The "Little "Un": A young boy who helps Holmes during the "Adventure of the Sign of Four" and is involved in dangerous situations.
* In the Canon: While they are a prominent part of Holmes' world, their role is often secondary. They don't always appear in each story, but their presence is crucial in several, including:
* "The Adventure of the Sign of Four"
* "The Adventure of the Red-Headed League"
* "The Adventure of the Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle"
* Popular Culture: The Baker Street Irregulars have become a popular element of Sherlock Holmes lore and have been featured in many adaptations, including films, television shows, and even video games.
They represent a fascinating contrast: the brilliance of Holmes contrasted with the resourcefulness and street smarts of these children. They are a reminder that even in the face of sophisticated crime, valuable information can be found in the most unexpected places.