In this intriguing episode, we delve into the world of classic radio with a focus on the adaptation of "The Avengers" in South Africa, a country that lacked a national television service until 1976. Despite the absence of television, the series managed to gain exposure through film rentals, capturing the imagination of audiences who were otherwise unable to experience the televised adventures of John Steed and Company. This episode explores the cultural impact and unique challenges faced by the series in reaching South African audiences.
We then transition into a captivating narrative featuring the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusted companion, Dr. Watson. The story unfolds with a social gathering where a valuable pearl necklace goes missing, leading to a series of deductions and revelations. Holmes and Watson navigate through the complexities of high society, uncovering secrets and resolving the mystery with their characteristic wit and intelligence. This episode is a delightful blend of classic detective storytelling and cultural exploration, offering listeners a rich and engaging experience.
(00:04) The Avengers in South Africa
(00:49) A Society Affair
(03:00) The Ruthless Lady Alicia
(06:01) The Engagement Controversy
(10:06) The Party and the Pearls
(14:00) The Search for the Missing Pearls
(18:05) The Truth Unveiled
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Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio
[00:00:00]
Unknown:
Other shows we have for you to enjoy at myclassicradio.net. The Avengers was most certainly not a household name in South Africa prior to the radio series. With no national television service until 1976, the mechanism simply was not present in the country to show television programs to mass audiences. While many other countries reveled in the filmed adventures of John Steed and Company, South Africa was not equipped to join in the fun. The series took Britain by storm and made a major impression in the American markets, being that greatest of rarities, a British series given a network transmission slot. However, as a film series, rather than a videotaped one, the Avengers was able to gain a modicum of exposure in South Africa through film rentals.
Come and listen at myclassicradio.net.
[00:00:50] Unknown:
The town was full of babies of fresh young beauties brought up from the country to be presented at court. The papers were full of accounts of dinners, parties, garden parties, and all the rest, of what now seems like a forgotten life. Naturally, all this meant very little to home. Consequently, I was more than a bit surprised on returning one afternoon to our greatest street lodgings to find him deep in a veritable snow globe, a village based society magazines and papers. Watson, What do you know about this man, Dame Ray? Dame Ray? Dame Ray? What what Dame Ray? Your name, yes, Ross. You can take this photograph and all this has started these days. Oh, that too. The fellow is a household word in society. Mhmm. Yes. He's a man of the world that would actually in my professional capacity.
That will be the gentleman now unless I'm very much mistaken. Thanks for also a minute. Take a look out of the window. Will you watch me? Why you always expect me to play sister Anne for you? Oh, alright. Very well. Yes. Yes, missus Huddl. The Hudson. He's he's up in the door to it. I just get up in the front step making his chair. Oh, but just, Anna, this is a movie he's passing by. The married man is too busy putting his white spools for silver in silver. Oh, but it's worth it, my dear fellow. It's worth it the pleasure of seeing the lady at one's choice. An effecting new bonnet or an agitating chimney in a a rhapsody, my dear Watson. I'll do the clothes just outside of door. Ah, Rod Dymery, I presume. And this must be the celebrated mister Sherlock Holmes. I'm delighted you made your acquaintance. Why don't you sit down, sir? Watson dumped that encyclopedia off the other armchair. Yes, sir. I was hoping to find doctor Watts.
Pleasure, I assure you. Well, the pleasure is mine, sir. Yes. I'm truly delighted to find doctor Watson present. His collaboration may be very necessary, mister Holmes. We are dealing on this occasion with one of the most ruthless individuals in all England. Oh, and who might that be? My sister, the lady Alicia, widow of the late Earl of Devlin. You don't say? Yes. She has the well known whim of iron. Anyone who crosses her in any way is in great danger. You mean that she'd go as far as to poison them or Oh, nice thing. Ladies in high society, my dear doctor Watson, have more subtle but nonetheless deadly ways of dealing with our adversaries. And for whom is, the lady Alicia softening her knight? This time. Well, I suspect it's miss Kitty Chisholm. Kitty Chisholm? You mean the delightful Kitty Chisholm, the star of the sweetheart of the regiment? The same. And how did lady Alicia's plant happen to cross the, charming kitties? Through my dunce of a nephew, Percy, who also happens to be Alithio's only son. Oh, Paul. He's become, infatuated with this kitty? He's asked her to marry him. And, quite, well, quite naturally, he's he's mother of dirt. No. That's the most startling aspect of the whole affair.
As soon as I heard of the engagement, I rushed around expecting to find Alicia in the midst of hysterics or at least having taken to her bed surrounded with smelling smoke. And, such is not the case. No. On the contrary, she was sitting at her desk in the morning room making up her list for a reception and musical to be given tomorrow afternoon to honor miss Kissam.
[00:04:39] Unknown:
Northern lady Coverdale, the duke of Rottington, maybe Windermere. Well, I must say, my dear, Olivia, I hardly expect to find one with a cheerful need. Why not? After all, what the family needs is new blood. It's only here if he's found it with a butcher and another of barmaid. Yes. I'm sure Percy should be very, very happy with the dear little thing. She's bound to make a big impression on all our friends. Alicia, I don't like the way you say that. You have that
[00:05:04] Unknown:
a certain glint in your eyes. What glint? Yeah. The glint you had the evening you met the lady Eustace of the Veer, the one with the grand staircase of Buckingham Palace. Yes. We've been quarreling all the winter. It's such fun. Yes. You smiled politely and let the feet calm. Then you deliberately step on her train, ripping it off at the waist revealing the fact that she wore certain red flannel undergarments.
[00:05:27] Unknown:
Dear Eustacia. She's the laughing stuff of my fair. I warn you, Elizabeth. Pretty person is no lady Eustacia. Of course not, darling. She's no lady at all. That's what makes me so anxious to have our friends meet her.
[00:05:48] Unknown:
Sounds like a rather ominous situation or, Demery. By the way, why gather that you have the pleasure of this person's appointment? Well, that is, yes. In a way, we we partake in a bottle and a bird several times going to know after the theater. It is really a dear little thing in in spite of her reputation. Reputation? Well, surely you've heard of her confounded cold. I'm afraid I'm rather ignorant of the chitchat of our metropolis. But everyone knows that she was given those dash gold by a certain Balkan king who spends most of the time in Paris. She wears them constantly. Luncheon, for tea, for dinner, in and out of the theater.
I believe she even wears them in her mouth. It's not, they're a sort of trademark. Yes. I suppose you might call it that. It's the only evidence of bad place I've ever known for you to indulge. That place, well, you can't find it, man. You're gonna take a moment to go thronging her. Well, her past about it as if you were proud of it. Not even if it's a tax for theater? Oh, blast those clothes. I suspect that whatever my sister has up her sleeve concerns Brenda. How? Well, for one thing, she insists I hire a private detective to keep an eye on them. So she doesn't want to run the risk of having them stolen in her house. Any solicitors of her? You want some? Mhmm. Why not solve the whole situation by suggesting to miss Kitty that she leave her jewels at home? By five. And, well, there are times when Kitty kissing can be as difficult as my sister. Absolutely refusing.
She says she will soon appear in public without no pedicures, without her code. I've warned her that my sister Alicia means business. But she says no grand arm is going to get the better of her. Oh, an interesting situation. It wasn't. It reminds me. One of society's leading her position conflict with One of the most popular leading ladies. And I've been trying to bet on this kid. You don't know my sister, Alicia. What makes you so positive that your sister is still opposed to the match between her nephew and this kid? Because in the first place, Percy can't afford to marry an actor. Actress. She has no money and is quite incapable of earning a living. My sister had a match practically arranged between him and Lord Beaverbottom's oldest daughter, that he's a millionaire.
And in the second place, Hickey must be a good ten years older than the boy. Well, she doesn't look like you. No. She's an actress. You don't you don't prove it for that, but you hate to see our sister put one over on this ridiculous system. That's that's the situation in a nutshell. I beg of you, mister Holmes. Come and keep an eye on things. Ostensibly, you'll be there to guard these silly clothes. But in reality, I wanted to, well, prevent any unpleasantness of my promiscuous professional popularity. After all, she's a bad fine actor to the rest. Yes. And and equally delightful. Anything, awkward happens to Kitty, miss Kissam, at this party of yours, I shall cut Percy out of my will. He won't get a penny from me. And then where would you be?
[00:08:39] Unknown:
My dear James, calm yourself. Anyone might think that it was you who'd become engaged to miss Kissam instead of Percy.
[00:08:45] Unknown:
Besides, if Percy has to wait till you pop off, my dear, before he inherits the family wealth, I'll be dead and gone. You're too disgustingly young and healthy. I thought you were trying to butter me up, Alicia, and I wish to remind you that it's not the family wealth Percy will inherit. It's my money, my own. I made it myself, and I shall leave it to whom I feed. Of course you will, James.
[00:09:03] Unknown:
But we, Dame Louise, are famous for sticking together, aren't you, sweet? Oh, look. Who's the being rapacious and very distinguished man who just entered?
[00:09:15] Unknown:
Oh, these are the gentlemen I've asked to guard miss Kissam's code. And I warn you, Alicia, Sherlock Holmes has the best brain in England, so no monkey tricks. Don't go vulgar, James, my pet.
[00:09:26] Unknown:
Oh, they see you coming over. I'm all of a flutter.
[00:09:29] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, it's so good of you to be so prompt. The guest of honor is due at any moment. Good evening, Lord Emery.
[00:09:34] Unknown:
James, my darling, haven't you forgotten something?
[00:09:37] Unknown:
Oh, yes. Alicia, my dear, may I introduce mister Sherlock Holmes and his friend and colleague, doctor Watson? How do you know, madam? This is really delightful. I was just saying to Lord Damery, mister Holmes, but I had no idea a member of the police thought was so perfectly satisfying. I'm sorry to disappoint you, ma'am. But, we are not members of the official police. We are merely amateurs of these not so gentle art of detection.
[00:09:59] Unknown:
How charming. How simply charming. Yes. Oh, here's my guest of honor now. Judging by the rush in her direction, it seems that quite a few of my male guests have already had the privilege of meeting her. Yes. You see, they no longer rock actresses up in the wardrobe plan after the performance lady at six. Yes. I see she's wearing her pearl. It certainly are magnificent. Almost the fine of mine, I should say. You don't suppose she insists on wearing them so consistently because her neck is too skinny. No one could ever suspect you were that man. He had you there. Don't be unpleasant, James. Come along, mister Holmes. You too, doctor, Wilson. Watson. Oh, of course. To be sure. After all, if you understand God over miss Kitham's pearls, it's by the time you made her a crease. Are you sure you wouldn't bother me to keep an eye on yours? I imagine they must be quite as valuable. Yes. But Emery pearls are handsome. It's a good thing James was never married or his wife would be wearing them. But I fancy they're in no danger.
I'm not in the habit of having them stolen, but it's more than to be said of actresses nowadays judging by what I read in the papers. But come, I deal very remiss, mister Holsteck.
[00:11:06] Unknown:
Not that my guest needs to feel any need of me. Oh, hi. You may be covered in see what I mean, mister Holsteck. Yeah. So Lydia, this is gonna suck. You have a dagger up. You could please. Yeah. There's one in each garter as well. Just
[00:11:30] Unknown:
That's because I'm healthy. You must try it sometime. I want you to meet two friends that Lord Emery has invited. They're here to see that you'll be seeing your pearl. I die if anything suspicious of them while you were to party at Mars. They've never been threatened before, lady Elizabeth. Are your parties more dangerous than the others I go to?
[00:11:49] Unknown:
Oh, now get it. It does it. May I introduce my friend, mister Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson? Oh, no. This is wonderful.
[00:11:57] Unknown:
I've read all of doctor Watson saying this account to be a wonderful adventure. Oh, thank you so much. Your sensationalism, my dear miss Kithner. Oh, I don't believe it for a moment. Such wonderful dramatic material. Have you ever thought of writing them into a play, doctor Watson? Well, that's already been done most successfully by the great American actor, mister William Gillette,
[00:12:14] Unknown:
who plays the leading role himself. And does a far more predictable job, I've been no doubt, than I could myself. Oh, I never believed that either.
[00:12:21] Unknown:
Yes. Have you ever thought of playing the board, mister Hale? Is it certain,
[00:12:26] Unknown:
shall we say, voted about you? You would make a very exciting performance. No. No. No. I don't can't persuade him to to change his midyear, miss Kitty. I'll never be able to follow him onto the stage. What up, my dear? This this would never do. Okay. We can't allow these two people to monopolize you, Kiki my sweetie. You must meet some of our other friends. All in good time, Percy. First, give your fiance a chance to catch a breath. Kitty, my dear, you must have a glass of champagne to brace you for the odd meal of meeting all these people. Percy, tell Paddington to bring that say over here. Oh, very well, dear. I'm sure mister Holmes and doctor Watson could do with a spot. There's a bar in the anteroom here if you'll just have in for a moment. My dear, aren't you forgetting what these gentlemen are here for? We can't leave Tippy unprotected.
[00:13:09] Unknown:
Ah, here's Peddleford. Allow me, Tippy my dear. Thank you, lady, and And a glass for you, mister Holmes, and one for Oh, oh, oh, oh, how clumsy of me. Get a towel, one person. Stain, change your handkerchief. Oh, I'd soak, miss Tippens, beautiful fleas. Oh, Just let me pack it dry.
[00:13:42] Unknown:
Good heavens. What is it? No pearls. They're missing. They're gonna start on this. Give us a call. Now now control yourself, Alicia. They must have come loose and they No. They were swollen. I knew they would be. Yes. Yes. I'm I'd rather expecting the same thing myself, lady, Alicia. Of course. Of course. They must be found. We must search everybody, you know. Please. Oh, this is awful. It's so embarrassing to everyone. Alicia, you've gone out of your mind. Your sister's quite right, Lord Amory. We must search everybody. It's the only way to recover the pearls, and you and John leagu and the lady, Alicia, will be dispersed in the search. But but that's it. Yes. I know it is. But you can hardly expect our guests to submit to the indignity of a search if you don't, set up an example. So shall we adjourn to the, anteroom, maybe, a little?
Well, here we are, mister Holmes. My sister, my nephew, and myself. Which would you like to first serve? Suppose we allow miss Gibson to choose. After all, it's a she will not first. Oh, really, mister Hamby.
[00:14:48] Unknown:
That is arduous is also unnecessary. The pearls came loose in the excitement over the upset parade. They they probably rolled under a chair or rug somewhere. If we wait until a guest has gone on show, we'll find him. Does he not, my dear? Those pearls were stolen. What was it, a chair or rug anywhere near us? Nothing but bare pocket floor. A lot of people. Yes. He's right about that, Of course. I'm right. There's a piece in my house and I insist that the fact that he or she is probably a guest of mine could be no protection. After all, that necklace was given you by a certain royal personage.
It's practically a historical relic. Yes. I know. But really, I'd much rather not have any spot a commotion. Nonsense, my dear. We must find the culprit. Everyone must be searched. Love all day, Alicia. Thank you. Thank you, mister Holmes. And now that enough time has elapsed, those of April things that we've been thoroughly searched, Suppose we call in the rest of the guests one at a time. You gentlemen can search the men, and, Kitty and I will search the ladies. Behind that screen. I mean, I'd be much happy if you would be. Nonsense. Let's get on with it. Right. But I still insist, the search begins with the cafe. Oh, very well if you insist on being of particular form. I suppose Percy and Lord Daymarie may as well turn out their pockets. No, lady, Elizabeth. We should begin with you. Kneel? But I haven't any pockets. I don't even carry a residue.
[00:16:07] Unknown:
So where could I hide anything? In your body. And miss Pissom, if you will investigate maybe Alicia's body? Yeah. I'd hear. Yeah. I'd
[00:16:15] Unknown:
I'd much rather not. Very well. If you won't, Jenny, I will. Jane, don't you dare. Jane, put your hands off my neck. That's an outrage. Oh, Jane. Stop it. I'm sorry but I can't let this past go on. I that is it's not worth it. That is I well, you see, those pairs aren't braille. My dear. You mean the king gave you imitation jewelry? That whole story was made up by my publicity agent. He, well, he thought it would be good for me. I rather suspect you knew the pairs were in a kitchen the first time you saw them. That's why you planned to show me up. What is all all these stories about you, miss King? Oh, I'm so sorry to disappoint you, Percy, but I'm really quite a respectable person. I've never met a king.
[00:17:07] Unknown:
Well, I I must say that this is a blow. Surprised. I mean, why can't we terribly zagged by my pals, you know? They're all not, any of these. But after all, no one knows. We don't have to publicize the things of the world.
[00:17:21] Unknown:
Oh, but I must tell my best, James here. After all, I owe them some explanation if I let the whole matter drop after making such an issue of things. I'm sure that everyone will be interested to know that not only are miss Kissam's pearls not big, but miss Kissam is somewhat of an imposter herself. But how could you know that pearls are false mother here? After all, ladies don't wear imitation jewels. And actresses, those were trinkets given them by men who don't consider them ladies. Here is your engagement ring, sir.
[00:17:51] Unknown:
That is well, I didn't really oh, this is a piece of it as a remembrance. Don't you know? Thank you, Percy. But I'd love enough. Well, Alicia, now that you've accomplished the results for which the party was undoubtedly given, suppose you let me send the guest home. Oh, not before I've had a chance to explain. You'll do nothing at the time. Did it kiss them once people to think a king gave us some pearls? That's purpose. Thank you, Lord Jamie. But it really doesn't matter.
[00:18:16] Unknown:
I'd well, I'd just as soon they did mine. That story of the royal pearls was beginning to make me feel just a bit foolish. Oh, I admit it was helpful when I was just a struggling small talk player. But now, well, I'd pledge myself that my whole unladder of success is fair enough so that it'll take more than a few indications pearls to take a leap. Bravo, mister B. I salute your courage. Thank you, sir. I see. Look here.
[00:18:46] Unknown:
Perhaps I've been a bit Interesting. Don't you know? You keep your silly mouth shut. I'll handle this from now on. You stay here, Alicia. I'm going to explain the situation to our guest. But James Alicia, shut up. Really?
[00:18:59] Unknown:
I'm afraid, mister Holmes, that a speak of vulgarity in my brother. I'm sure I don't know where it comes from. Probably from the same place he gets his honesty and sense fair play. Hear me. Don't tell me you're going to be trusted me too. By the way, whatever made you think that I might have secluded miss Kitten's pearls in my body? My dear lady, Olivia, when something of value disappears during our manufactured
[00:19:21] Unknown:
promotion, the first one suspected could be the person who did the manufacturing. You mean, you thought that I asked secretary on purpose? Quite. But come, let us, join the other, shall we? I think he's given Lord Emery ample time to make his explanations. Oh, this is simply thrilling. So much more fun than hunting what you said. Well, that makes a hundred and six. Same. What an earth are you doing? Hunting for pearls. Seems I was right in the first place. Miss Chisholm's pearls weren't stolen. The string must have broken and stolen them all over the place. Any more? We've looked everywhere. And so there isn't an inch we haven't searched. Then here you are, my dear Kitty. Allow me to return your pearl. Oh, thank you. But I don't understand. Tell me, miss Gibson. Yes?
How many pearls were there on your string? A hundred and five. But Holmes, the Lord Demers just counted them. He mentioned a hundred and six. There's one more pearl now than there was when it was stolen. Incredible. It's absolutely impossible, my dear Watson. No. No. No. No. It's not incredible. It's not even impossible. It's, nearly enlightening. What do you deduce from the presence of this added proof of a humble oyster lady that's here? Perhaps you can explain, why there are now 106 pearls in this kitchen's necklace. Did you say 106?
[00:20:52] Unknown:
But my necklace is the Beverly pearls have 106. What happens? My necklace is gone. Someone has taken my pearl. Then, may I ask you, lady Alicia, what pearls are those still hidden in your body? But those are miss Kiffin's in the case of them. James must have picked mine off my neck when he was threatening to search me. And now he's pulled this trick to get easy with me. The string that broke my pearl. She has no right to them. They are the Tamery pearl. Right, dear lady and the fear. There is one person who has a better right to them than yourself.
[00:21:21] Unknown:
That person, of course, would be Lord Damely's wife. Yes. Judging by the look in Lord Damely's eyes, Watson, wouldn't you say they, they've been handed over to the proper party? My job. Yes. Elementary, my dear Holmes. Elementary.
Other shows we have for you to enjoy at myclassicradio.net. The Avengers was most certainly not a household name in South Africa prior to the radio series. With no national television service until 1976, the mechanism simply was not present in the country to show television programs to mass audiences. While many other countries reveled in the filmed adventures of John Steed and Company, South Africa was not equipped to join in the fun. The series took Britain by storm and made a major impression in the American markets, being that greatest of rarities, a British series given a network transmission slot. However, as a film series, rather than a videotaped one, the Avengers was able to gain a modicum of exposure in South Africa through film rentals.
Come and listen at myclassicradio.net.
[00:00:50] Unknown:
The town was full of babies of fresh young beauties brought up from the country to be presented at court. The papers were full of accounts of dinners, parties, garden parties, and all the rest, of what now seems like a forgotten life. Naturally, all this meant very little to home. Consequently, I was more than a bit surprised on returning one afternoon to our greatest street lodgings to find him deep in a veritable snow globe, a village based society magazines and papers. Watson, What do you know about this man, Dame Ray? Dame Ray? Dame Ray? What what Dame Ray? Your name, yes, Ross. You can take this photograph and all this has started these days. Oh, that too. The fellow is a household word in society. Mhmm. Yes. He's a man of the world that would actually in my professional capacity.
That will be the gentleman now unless I'm very much mistaken. Thanks for also a minute. Take a look out of the window. Will you watch me? Why you always expect me to play sister Anne for you? Oh, alright. Very well. Yes. Yes, missus Huddl. The Hudson. He's he's up in the door to it. I just get up in the front step making his chair. Oh, but just, Anna, this is a movie he's passing by. The married man is too busy putting his white spools for silver in silver. Oh, but it's worth it, my dear fellow. It's worth it the pleasure of seeing the lady at one's choice. An effecting new bonnet or an agitating chimney in a a rhapsody, my dear Watson. I'll do the clothes just outside of door. Ah, Rod Dymery, I presume. And this must be the celebrated mister Sherlock Holmes. I'm delighted you made your acquaintance. Why don't you sit down, sir? Watson dumped that encyclopedia off the other armchair. Yes, sir. I was hoping to find doctor Watts.
Pleasure, I assure you. Well, the pleasure is mine, sir. Yes. I'm truly delighted to find doctor Watson present. His collaboration may be very necessary, mister Holmes. We are dealing on this occasion with one of the most ruthless individuals in all England. Oh, and who might that be? My sister, the lady Alicia, widow of the late Earl of Devlin. You don't say? Yes. She has the well known whim of iron. Anyone who crosses her in any way is in great danger. You mean that she'd go as far as to poison them or Oh, nice thing. Ladies in high society, my dear doctor Watson, have more subtle but nonetheless deadly ways of dealing with our adversaries. And for whom is, the lady Alicia softening her knight? This time. Well, I suspect it's miss Kitty Chisholm. Kitty Chisholm? You mean the delightful Kitty Chisholm, the star of the sweetheart of the regiment? The same. And how did lady Alicia's plant happen to cross the, charming kitties? Through my dunce of a nephew, Percy, who also happens to be Alithio's only son. Oh, Paul. He's become, infatuated with this kitty? He's asked her to marry him. And, quite, well, quite naturally, he's he's mother of dirt. No. That's the most startling aspect of the whole affair.
As soon as I heard of the engagement, I rushed around expecting to find Alicia in the midst of hysterics or at least having taken to her bed surrounded with smelling smoke. And, such is not the case. No. On the contrary, she was sitting at her desk in the morning room making up her list for a reception and musical to be given tomorrow afternoon to honor miss Kissam.
[00:04:39] Unknown:
Northern lady Coverdale, the duke of Rottington, maybe Windermere. Well, I must say, my dear, Olivia, I hardly expect to find one with a cheerful need. Why not? After all, what the family needs is new blood. It's only here if he's found it with a butcher and another of barmaid. Yes. I'm sure Percy should be very, very happy with the dear little thing. She's bound to make a big impression on all our friends. Alicia, I don't like the way you say that. You have that
[00:05:04] Unknown:
a certain glint in your eyes. What glint? Yeah. The glint you had the evening you met the lady Eustace of the Veer, the one with the grand staircase of Buckingham Palace. Yes. We've been quarreling all the winter. It's such fun. Yes. You smiled politely and let the feet calm. Then you deliberately step on her train, ripping it off at the waist revealing the fact that she wore certain red flannel undergarments.
[00:05:27] Unknown:
Dear Eustacia. She's the laughing stuff of my fair. I warn you, Elizabeth. Pretty person is no lady Eustacia. Of course not, darling. She's no lady at all. That's what makes me so anxious to have our friends meet her.
[00:05:48] Unknown:
Sounds like a rather ominous situation or, Demery. By the way, why gather that you have the pleasure of this person's appointment? Well, that is, yes. In a way, we we partake in a bottle and a bird several times going to know after the theater. It is really a dear little thing in in spite of her reputation. Reputation? Well, surely you've heard of her confounded cold. I'm afraid I'm rather ignorant of the chitchat of our metropolis. But everyone knows that she was given those dash gold by a certain Balkan king who spends most of the time in Paris. She wears them constantly. Luncheon, for tea, for dinner, in and out of the theater.
I believe she even wears them in her mouth. It's not, they're a sort of trademark. Yes. I suppose you might call it that. It's the only evidence of bad place I've ever known for you to indulge. That place, well, you can't find it, man. You're gonna take a moment to go thronging her. Well, her past about it as if you were proud of it. Not even if it's a tax for theater? Oh, blast those clothes. I suspect that whatever my sister has up her sleeve concerns Brenda. How? Well, for one thing, she insists I hire a private detective to keep an eye on them. So she doesn't want to run the risk of having them stolen in her house. Any solicitors of her? You want some? Mhmm. Why not solve the whole situation by suggesting to miss Kitty that she leave her jewels at home? By five. And, well, there are times when Kitty kissing can be as difficult as my sister. Absolutely refusing.
She says she will soon appear in public without no pedicures, without her code. I've warned her that my sister Alicia means business. But she says no grand arm is going to get the better of her. Oh, an interesting situation. It wasn't. It reminds me. One of society's leading her position conflict with One of the most popular leading ladies. And I've been trying to bet on this kid. You don't know my sister, Alicia. What makes you so positive that your sister is still opposed to the match between her nephew and this kid? Because in the first place, Percy can't afford to marry an actor. Actress. She has no money and is quite incapable of earning a living. My sister had a match practically arranged between him and Lord Beaverbottom's oldest daughter, that he's a millionaire.
And in the second place, Hickey must be a good ten years older than the boy. Well, she doesn't look like you. No. She's an actress. You don't you don't prove it for that, but you hate to see our sister put one over on this ridiculous system. That's that's the situation in a nutshell. I beg of you, mister Holmes. Come and keep an eye on things. Ostensibly, you'll be there to guard these silly clothes. But in reality, I wanted to, well, prevent any unpleasantness of my promiscuous professional popularity. After all, she's a bad fine actor to the rest. Yes. And and equally delightful. Anything, awkward happens to Kitty, miss Kissam, at this party of yours, I shall cut Percy out of my will. He won't get a penny from me. And then where would you be?
[00:08:39] Unknown:
My dear James, calm yourself. Anyone might think that it was you who'd become engaged to miss Kissam instead of Percy.
[00:08:45] Unknown:
Besides, if Percy has to wait till you pop off, my dear, before he inherits the family wealth, I'll be dead and gone. You're too disgustingly young and healthy. I thought you were trying to butter me up, Alicia, and I wish to remind you that it's not the family wealth Percy will inherit. It's my money, my own. I made it myself, and I shall leave it to whom I feed. Of course you will, James.
[00:09:03] Unknown:
But we, Dame Louise, are famous for sticking together, aren't you, sweet? Oh, look. Who's the being rapacious and very distinguished man who just entered?
[00:09:15] Unknown:
Oh, these are the gentlemen I've asked to guard miss Kissam's code. And I warn you, Alicia, Sherlock Holmes has the best brain in England, so no monkey tricks. Don't go vulgar, James, my pet.
[00:09:26] Unknown:
Oh, they see you coming over. I'm all of a flutter.
[00:09:29] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, it's so good of you to be so prompt. The guest of honor is due at any moment. Good evening, Lord Emery.
[00:09:34] Unknown:
James, my darling, haven't you forgotten something?
[00:09:37] Unknown:
Oh, yes. Alicia, my dear, may I introduce mister Sherlock Holmes and his friend and colleague, doctor Watson? How do you know, madam? This is really delightful. I was just saying to Lord Damery, mister Holmes, but I had no idea a member of the police thought was so perfectly satisfying. I'm sorry to disappoint you, ma'am. But, we are not members of the official police. We are merely amateurs of these not so gentle art of detection.
[00:09:59] Unknown:
How charming. How simply charming. Yes. Oh, here's my guest of honor now. Judging by the rush in her direction, it seems that quite a few of my male guests have already had the privilege of meeting her. Yes. You see, they no longer rock actresses up in the wardrobe plan after the performance lady at six. Yes. I see she's wearing her pearl. It certainly are magnificent. Almost the fine of mine, I should say. You don't suppose she insists on wearing them so consistently because her neck is too skinny. No one could ever suspect you were that man. He had you there. Don't be unpleasant, James. Come along, mister Holmes. You too, doctor, Wilson. Watson. Oh, of course. To be sure. After all, if you understand God over miss Kitham's pearls, it's by the time you made her a crease. Are you sure you wouldn't bother me to keep an eye on yours? I imagine they must be quite as valuable. Yes. But Emery pearls are handsome. It's a good thing James was never married or his wife would be wearing them. But I fancy they're in no danger.
I'm not in the habit of having them stolen, but it's more than to be said of actresses nowadays judging by what I read in the papers. But come, I deal very remiss, mister Holsteck.
[00:11:06] Unknown:
Not that my guest needs to feel any need of me. Oh, hi. You may be covered in see what I mean, mister Holsteck. Yeah. So Lydia, this is gonna suck. You have a dagger up. You could please. Yeah. There's one in each garter as well. Just
[00:11:30] Unknown:
That's because I'm healthy. You must try it sometime. I want you to meet two friends that Lord Emery has invited. They're here to see that you'll be seeing your pearl. I die if anything suspicious of them while you were to party at Mars. They've never been threatened before, lady Elizabeth. Are your parties more dangerous than the others I go to?
[00:11:49] Unknown:
Oh, now get it. It does it. May I introduce my friend, mister Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson? Oh, no. This is wonderful.
[00:11:57] Unknown:
I've read all of doctor Watson saying this account to be a wonderful adventure. Oh, thank you so much. Your sensationalism, my dear miss Kithner. Oh, I don't believe it for a moment. Such wonderful dramatic material. Have you ever thought of writing them into a play, doctor Watson? Well, that's already been done most successfully by the great American actor, mister William Gillette,
[00:12:14] Unknown:
who plays the leading role himself. And does a far more predictable job, I've been no doubt, than I could myself. Oh, I never believed that either.
[00:12:21] Unknown:
Yes. Have you ever thought of playing the board, mister Hale? Is it certain,
[00:12:26] Unknown:
shall we say, voted about you? You would make a very exciting performance. No. No. No. I don't can't persuade him to to change his midyear, miss Kitty. I'll never be able to follow him onto the stage. What up, my dear? This this would never do. Okay. We can't allow these two people to monopolize you, Kiki my sweetie. You must meet some of our other friends. All in good time, Percy. First, give your fiance a chance to catch a breath. Kitty, my dear, you must have a glass of champagne to brace you for the odd meal of meeting all these people. Percy, tell Paddington to bring that say over here. Oh, very well, dear. I'm sure mister Holmes and doctor Watson could do with a spot. There's a bar in the anteroom here if you'll just have in for a moment. My dear, aren't you forgetting what these gentlemen are here for? We can't leave Tippy unprotected.
[00:13:09] Unknown:
Ah, here's Peddleford. Allow me, Tippy my dear. Thank you, lady, and And a glass for you, mister Holmes, and one for Oh, oh, oh, oh, how clumsy of me. Get a towel, one person. Stain, change your handkerchief. Oh, I'd soak, miss Tippens, beautiful fleas. Oh, Just let me pack it dry.
[00:13:42] Unknown:
Good heavens. What is it? No pearls. They're missing. They're gonna start on this. Give us a call. Now now control yourself, Alicia. They must have come loose and they No. They were swollen. I knew they would be. Yes. Yes. I'm I'd rather expecting the same thing myself, lady, Alicia. Of course. Of course. They must be found. We must search everybody, you know. Please. Oh, this is awful. It's so embarrassing to everyone. Alicia, you've gone out of your mind. Your sister's quite right, Lord Amory. We must search everybody. It's the only way to recover the pearls, and you and John leagu and the lady, Alicia, will be dispersed in the search. But but that's it. Yes. I know it is. But you can hardly expect our guests to submit to the indignity of a search if you don't, set up an example. So shall we adjourn to the, anteroom, maybe, a little?
Well, here we are, mister Holmes. My sister, my nephew, and myself. Which would you like to first serve? Suppose we allow miss Gibson to choose. After all, it's a she will not first. Oh, really, mister Hamby.
[00:14:48] Unknown:
That is arduous is also unnecessary. The pearls came loose in the excitement over the upset parade. They they probably rolled under a chair or rug somewhere. If we wait until a guest has gone on show, we'll find him. Does he not, my dear? Those pearls were stolen. What was it, a chair or rug anywhere near us? Nothing but bare pocket floor. A lot of people. Yes. He's right about that, Of course. I'm right. There's a piece in my house and I insist that the fact that he or she is probably a guest of mine could be no protection. After all, that necklace was given you by a certain royal personage.
It's practically a historical relic. Yes. I know. But really, I'd much rather not have any spot a commotion. Nonsense, my dear. We must find the culprit. Everyone must be searched. Love all day, Alicia. Thank you. Thank you, mister Holmes. And now that enough time has elapsed, those of April things that we've been thoroughly searched, Suppose we call in the rest of the guests one at a time. You gentlemen can search the men, and, Kitty and I will search the ladies. Behind that screen. I mean, I'd be much happy if you would be. Nonsense. Let's get on with it. Right. But I still insist, the search begins with the cafe. Oh, very well if you insist on being of particular form. I suppose Percy and Lord Daymarie may as well turn out their pockets. No, lady, Elizabeth. We should begin with you. Kneel? But I haven't any pockets. I don't even carry a residue.
[00:16:07] Unknown:
So where could I hide anything? In your body. And miss Pissom, if you will investigate maybe Alicia's body? Yeah. I'd hear. Yeah. I'd
[00:16:15] Unknown:
I'd much rather not. Very well. If you won't, Jenny, I will. Jane, don't you dare. Jane, put your hands off my neck. That's an outrage. Oh, Jane. Stop it. I'm sorry but I can't let this past go on. I that is it's not worth it. That is I well, you see, those pairs aren't braille. My dear. You mean the king gave you imitation jewelry? That whole story was made up by my publicity agent. He, well, he thought it would be good for me. I rather suspect you knew the pairs were in a kitchen the first time you saw them. That's why you planned to show me up. What is all all these stories about you, miss King? Oh, I'm so sorry to disappoint you, Percy, but I'm really quite a respectable person. I've never met a king.
[00:17:07] Unknown:
Well, I I must say that this is a blow. Surprised. I mean, why can't we terribly zagged by my pals, you know? They're all not, any of these. But after all, no one knows. We don't have to publicize the things of the world.
[00:17:21] Unknown:
Oh, but I must tell my best, James here. After all, I owe them some explanation if I let the whole matter drop after making such an issue of things. I'm sure that everyone will be interested to know that not only are miss Kissam's pearls not big, but miss Kissam is somewhat of an imposter herself. But how could you know that pearls are false mother here? After all, ladies don't wear imitation jewels. And actresses, those were trinkets given them by men who don't consider them ladies. Here is your engagement ring, sir.
[00:17:51] Unknown:
That is well, I didn't really oh, this is a piece of it as a remembrance. Don't you know? Thank you, Percy. But I'd love enough. Well, Alicia, now that you've accomplished the results for which the party was undoubtedly given, suppose you let me send the guest home. Oh, not before I've had a chance to explain. You'll do nothing at the time. Did it kiss them once people to think a king gave us some pearls? That's purpose. Thank you, Lord Jamie. But it really doesn't matter.
[00:18:16] Unknown:
I'd well, I'd just as soon they did mine. That story of the royal pearls was beginning to make me feel just a bit foolish. Oh, I admit it was helpful when I was just a struggling small talk player. But now, well, I'd pledge myself that my whole unladder of success is fair enough so that it'll take more than a few indications pearls to take a leap. Bravo, mister B. I salute your courage. Thank you, sir. I see. Look here.
[00:18:46] Unknown:
Perhaps I've been a bit Interesting. Don't you know? You keep your silly mouth shut. I'll handle this from now on. You stay here, Alicia. I'm going to explain the situation to our guest. But James Alicia, shut up. Really?
[00:18:59] Unknown:
I'm afraid, mister Holmes, that a speak of vulgarity in my brother. I'm sure I don't know where it comes from. Probably from the same place he gets his honesty and sense fair play. Hear me. Don't tell me you're going to be trusted me too. By the way, whatever made you think that I might have secluded miss Kitten's pearls in my body? My dear lady, Olivia, when something of value disappears during our manufactured
[00:19:21] Unknown:
promotion, the first one suspected could be the person who did the manufacturing. You mean, you thought that I asked secretary on purpose? Quite. But come, let us, join the other, shall we? I think he's given Lord Emery ample time to make his explanations. Oh, this is simply thrilling. So much more fun than hunting what you said. Well, that makes a hundred and six. Same. What an earth are you doing? Hunting for pearls. Seems I was right in the first place. Miss Chisholm's pearls weren't stolen. The string must have broken and stolen them all over the place. Any more? We've looked everywhere. And so there isn't an inch we haven't searched. Then here you are, my dear Kitty. Allow me to return your pearl. Oh, thank you. But I don't understand. Tell me, miss Gibson. Yes?
How many pearls were there on your string? A hundred and five. But Holmes, the Lord Demers just counted them. He mentioned a hundred and six. There's one more pearl now than there was when it was stolen. Incredible. It's absolutely impossible, my dear Watson. No. No. No. No. It's not incredible. It's not even impossible. It's, nearly enlightening. What do you deduce from the presence of this added proof of a humble oyster lady that's here? Perhaps you can explain, why there are now 106 pearls in this kitchen's necklace. Did you say 106?
[00:20:52] Unknown:
But my necklace is the Beverly pearls have 106. What happens? My necklace is gone. Someone has taken my pearl. Then, may I ask you, lady Alicia, what pearls are those still hidden in your body? But those are miss Kiffin's in the case of them. James must have picked mine off my neck when he was threatening to search me. And now he's pulled this trick to get easy with me. The string that broke my pearl. She has no right to them. They are the Tamery pearl. Right, dear lady and the fear. There is one person who has a better right to them than yourself.
[00:21:21] Unknown:
That person, of course, would be Lord Damely's wife. Yes. Judging by the look in Lord Damely's eyes, Watson, wouldn't you say they, they've been handed over to the proper party? My job. Yes. Elementary, my dear Holmes. Elementary.
