What does "pray" here mean?
Recently I've been reading Sherlock Holmes. I find the word " pray" always turns up at the beginning of the sentences. I feel it means "please". Am I right？

Ex.
Holmes shook his head like a man who is far from being satisfied.

"These are very deep waters," said he,; " pray go on with your narrative."

Question

What does "pray" here mean?
Recently I've been reading Sherlock Holmes. I find the word " pray" always turns up at the beginning of the sentences. I feel it means "please". Am I right？

Ex.
Holmes shook his head  like a man who is far from being satisfied.

"These are very deep waters," said he,; " pray go on with your narrative."

Answer

Yes in this context (Old English Language) it means please

Answer

You are correct, "pray" could be replaced with "please" here.

However, I don't think this is common usage anymore. I think most people would understand if you used it, but it sounds a bit old I think.

Answer

Excellent reasoning. Pray continue. I agree with you.