Ah durh, yes, that kind of tantalus. Possibly the term was still in use when Baring-Gould wrote?

Thinking about it, Sherlock wouldn't risk that much unprotected sex. He probably has a network of highly-intelligent independent women who enjoy not having the father over-interfering in their lives.

"Though I imagine if any of them turn out all right I shall take one or two on as a apprentices eventually." "Oh good. Someone to fetch the milk."