I have climbed up the gate-ladder on the ledge in the cave. I look up and try to click empty flask against the barrel to get powder, but Sherlock keeps saying that it is too heavy to lift. Nothing happens to the flask. Think that I have followed all the steps, but I am stuck. What should I do? Thanks, Mel22odie

As a review: You placed the planks on the lower part of the ledge.
You climb up to a higher ledge again and look up.
Move the cursor and then click on that thing up there - until Holmes says there is something there. He has to say that first.

Go down and go to the lantern at other side of the cave.
Adjust the lantern that is on the hook so that it lights up the barrel up there. See if you can click on that barrel just to be sure from the lantern area.

Now that you see the barrel, you can work on it.
Go back and climb up that plank again.
Move as close as you can and then click the flask.

MaG, I checked the hints in the game (was just checking the walkthrough) and it said take the flask and not the hip flask. I had been endlessly trying the hip flask. Had retraced my steps and everything. That's all it was...the wrong flask. Sorry. Will check both places from now on. Thanks very much for your instructions. Had done all you suggested although it was difficult to get close. Thanks again, Mel22odie

Ah - the empty flask. Great you found out what's holding you back.