In this captivating episode, we delve into the intriguing world of radio adaptations and the cultural impact of classic shows like "The Avengers" and "Sherlock Holmes." The discussion highlights how South Africa, lacking a national television service until 1976, experienced these iconic series differently, relying on radio and film rentals for exposure. The episode also explores the unique customs surrounding the Blarney Stone in Ireland, a legendary talisman believed to bestow eloquence upon those who dare to kiss it. This sets the stage for a thrilling Sherlock Holmes adventure, where Holmes and Watson find themselves unraveling a murder mystery at Blarney Castle.
As the story unfolds, Holmes and Watson encounter a colorful cast of characters, including the abrasive Geoffrey Hankin, his partner Michael Cochrane, and Hankin's enchanting wife. A seemingly innocent bet to kiss the Blarney Stone turns deadly, leading to a gripping investigation filled with twists and turns. Holmes employs his legendary deductive skills to uncover a clever murder plot involving greased boots and a deadly fall. The episode concludes with Holmes revealing the true culprit in a dramatic confrontation atop the castle, showcasing the timeless appeal of Sherlock Holmes' adventures.
(00:04) The Avengers in South Africa
(01:05) Sherlock Holmes and the Blarney Stone
(04:26) The Legend of the Blarney Stone
(06:52) An Evening at the Irish Inn
(12:23) A Bet to Kiss the Blarney Stone
(18:18) The Investigation Begins
(22:00) Reconstructing the Crime
Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio
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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
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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:
Petrie Wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce in the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invite you to listen to doctor Watson tell us another story about his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And incidentally, I'd like to tell you about a swell American custom. The custom of serving sherry wine just before dinner. Petri California sherry. You know, especially when you have guests while you're waiting for that call to the dinner table, there's nothing better than a good glass of that good Petri sherry. You don't need fancy glasses for Petri sherry. No, sir. That wine tastes good out of any glass. And it looks good too.
Beautifully clear and the color of precious amber. Just try that Petri Sherry and you'll feel like smacking your lips after every sip. Oh, and say, Petri makes two kinds of sherry. The regular sherry and Petri pale dry sherry. Just to make sure you get the perfect sherry for the whole family, don't buy one, buy two. But do be sure the sherry you buy is Petri sherry. Petri, the proudest name in the history of American wine. And now I'm sure our good friend, doctor Watson's ready for us. Let's go in and join him.
[00:02:27] Unknown:
There you are, mister Bartel. Good evening, doctor. Say, where are the puppies this evening? Mister Bartel, don't you think it's about time you began to refer to them as the dogs? They're almost a year old, you know. I stand corrected. Where are the dogs this evening? Well, they had another furious battle with a dead seal on the beach today. My housekeeper, Mrs. West is giving them a much needed bath.
[00:02:48] Unknown:
They certainly have an aversion to seals, don't they? Well, doctor, are you all ready with tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure? Yes, my boy. And as yesterday was Saint Patrick's day,
[00:02:57] Unknown:
I decided to tell you a story that took place in Ireland, a few years before the turn of the century. I imagine that you've heard of kissing the Blarney Stone, haven't you? Oh, yes, doctor. Though I've never understood exactly what it meant. Well, let me explain it to you because the ceremony plays a a very important part in the story tonight. Blarney Castle is an imposing fifteenth century ruin a few miles outside the town of Cork. The castle is many stories high and in the foremost tower, the famous Blarney Stone is is situated. What's supposed to be the point in kissing it, doctor? The stone is considered a powerful talisman and the legend runs that whoever kisses it is endowed with eloquence for life.
[00:03:36] Unknown:
Say doctor, if I ever get over to Ireland, I'll certainly kiss that stone. But you're such a storyteller yourself, doctor. How about you've kissed it, No, mister Barthel. I'm afraid I never had quite enough courage. Courage?
[00:03:50] Unknown:
Why does it need courage, doctor? Because the bloody stone is is set in a most inaccessible position on the outside wall. To kiss it, it is customary to lower the candidate for eloquence over the rampart, head foremost with a friend hanging onto his heels. From the top of a castle? It does sound dangerous, doctor. Oh, it was my boy. So much so that in recent years, a great row of iron spikes has put around the parapet to prevent an accident. Though, of course, at the time tonight's story took place, there was no such guard. And I have a feeling that an accident did take place, doctor. No. No. No. No. No. Mister Bartell, let me tell you the story from the beginning. Sherlock Holmes and I were staying in the city of Cork, where the great man had just solved the singular affair which the local press had referred to as the leprechaun murders.
A few days before our departure from England, we paid a visit to Blarney Castle. I must confess that I had a certain desire to test the miraculous powers attributed to the Blarney Stone. I will soon change my mind, however, as Holmes and I stood there high on the turrets of Blarney Castle and watched a terrified initiate being hauled up by his ankles and yelling at the top of his voice. Pull me up. Fill me up quickly. I think I'm going to faint.
[00:05:03] Unknown:
Great, Scott. I had no idea that kissing the bar in stone was such a hazardous proceeding, Who cares? It would seem that eloquence could be more easily obtained than by hanging suspended by one's ankles from a battlement with a hundred foot drop below and kissing a piece of stone? Oh, I'll never lose that again. Oh, I'll never lose that again. I must say, I don't blame the full eye. And yet, my dear chap, on our way over here, you expressed a sneaking desire to kiss the stone yourself. I'll be very happy to hold your ankles if you wanna try the experiment. No. No. Thank you. After witnessing the ceremony, I've changed my mind. Then I suggest we make our way back downstairs. I don't think there's much more to be seen up here. Well, by the way, Holmes, do you know the origin of the superstition regarding the the Blaney stone? Yes. I do, old chap. The stone was, story of the stone dates back to the middle of the fifteenth century. A certain Cormac McCarthy called the strong, a descendant of the ancient kings of Munster and builder of this castle, chanced one day to save an old woman from drowning. In her gratitude, she offered Cormac a golden tongue which would have the power to influence men and women, friends and foes as he willed.
She told him to mount the battle and kiss a certain stone in the wall, five feet below the gallery running around the top. He followed her directions and obtained all the fluent persuasiveness
[00:06:10] Unknown:
she had promised. And I suppose the story spread and the brown stone has been a magnet to pilgrims ever since. Yeah. That's pleasant legend. Holmes. Yes, old chap. Tomorrow's Saint Patrick's Day. I I bet there'll be quite a bit of excitement in the village tonight. Don't you think it'd be rather fun to pay a visit to one of the local inns? Splendid idea, Roger.
[00:06:27] Unknown:
Our rather arduous work here in Ireland is concluded, and I think we're more than entitled to a little guiety.
[00:06:53] Unknown:
Charming. Quite charming. A waiter and singing at his word. Singing very well too. Just the same. I wish someone would come and take out our order. Oh, there's a barmaid. I'll see if I can catch her eye. Hi. Miss? Miss? Would you gentlemen be after wanting something? Yes, my dear. My friend and I would like a little refreshment. And what would you suggest? What would I suggest, your honor? Oh, begotter.
[00:07:12] Unknown:
There is but one drink a gentleman like yourself should be after pouring down you, and that's the cream of Carnivora. Whiskey that'll soften your heart and and make you glow with a good feeling so so that the little people will be after visiting you. It sounds delightful. Bring two glasses, will you? Yes, your honor. Yes, your honor.
[00:07:30] Unknown:
I must say I never heard an English barmaid go in such rhapsody over a nipple with you. No. The Irish are distinctly more colorful in their speech. It's an interesting fact though, Watson, that, the Irish are curiously unrewarding in the criminal world. England, Scotland, America, Australia have all produced classics of crime, but the Irish murders, almost without exception, have been purely physical
[00:07:51] Unknown:
affairs of hot blood. You say that rather regretfully, Holmes?
[00:07:55] Unknown:
No, madam chair. No. No. No. I say Watson.
[00:07:58] Unknown:
Look at this rather florid looking gentleman coming towards our table. It looks to me as if he's a little under the weather. You fellas have gotta have a drink with me. Oh, thank you, sir. Thank you. But we've just ordered one. Well, you've got to have it with me. I went to the races at Cork today and made a killing. I'm gonna buy all the drinks here tonight. I'm afraid the television Nothing you're afraid of. I'll I'll sit down with you for a moment.
[00:08:19] Unknown:
Here. My name's Hankin, Geoffrey Hankin. What's yours? Mine is Holmes, and this is my friend, doctor Watson. How do you do, sir? How do you do? Your honors. There'll be one in six Hey. I'm paying for these here.
[00:08:30] Unknown:
Half a crown, and you can keep the chain. Blessings on you. Here I am. Oh, well, if you insist on paying for our drinks, mister Hankin, here's your very good help. Yes. Indeed. You're, both English, aren't you? Yes, sir. So am I. It's certainly a relief to hear an English voice again. Oh, you don't like the Irish lilt, sir? Can't bear it. Personally, I find it rather chance. Yes. Indeed. So do I. Well, you wouldn't if you had to live with it all the time. Sometimes I think that if I hear one more Irish tenor singing Molly Malone or one more reference to the little people, I shall go raving mad.
You live in Ireland, sir? Yeah. I have to. I own a half interest in a trade mill here. You see? In any case, my wife's Irish, and she thinks there's no other country in the world. So I suppose I'm stuck here.
[00:09:11] Unknown:
See that couple sitting at the table over there? You mean the fellow with a with a very beautiful girl? Yes.
[00:09:17] Unknown:
Man's Michael Caulker and my partner. Oh, the girl's absolutely ravishing.
[00:09:21] Unknown:
You'd like to meet her? I'd like to invite George. Yes. What what do you say, home? Oh, well, Watson, the combination of my natural curiosity and your taste for a pretty face would, seem to suit the occasion admirably.
[00:09:31] Unknown:
And I might as well warn you, doctor, that the pretty face
[00:09:34] Unknown:
belongs to my wife. Your wife? Oh, good question. I'm sorry. I I I didn't mean to Oh, you better bring your glasses with you.
[00:09:45] Unknown:
Morning, my dear. I want you to meet two English friends of mine, mister Holmes and, doctor Watson. How do you do? How do you do, mister Holmes, doctor Watson? Won't you sit down and join us? And this is my partner, Michael Cochrane. How do you do, mister Cochrane? How do you do, sir? I'm glad to meet you. Please be seated, gentlemen. Are you visiting here in court? Yes, missus Ankin. But, we are returning to England in a few days. You've been to Blarney Castle, I hope? Oh, yes. We were there this afternoon. And, did either of you have the courage to kiss the Blarney Stone? No. No. We didn't. I'm afraid it's an athletic feat that's beyond me. It's a lot of rubbish. That's what it is. Just do a slab of stone. Have you the courage to do it, Jeffrey? Of course, I have. But I don't wanna make a fool of myself. Where's the barmaid?
[00:10:27] Unknown:
Kathleen. I'll make a wager, Jeffrey, that you haven't the courage to kiss the stone. How much shall you bet, Michael? I'll wager a £10 note on it. It's a bet. And you fellas witnessed it. I'll kiss the bloody stone at noon tomorrow, and you'll be £10 the poorer, Michael. And I suggest that mister Holmes and doctor Watson be present as well. They can act as referees. Jeffrey, dear, don't get so excited. Well, I don't like it when Michael suggests I don't have courage. You want some more drink, mister Henley? Yes, ma'am. I just want to say no more for me. Thank you. No. No. No. No. No. No more for me. Thank you. You've had enough, Jeffrey. Don't tell me when I've had enough more. In Dublin, fair city, the girl is not Oh, no. Not that filth. It's all. Definitely, mister Hagen. I find the little Irish miller. It's quite beautiful, and I find the roof. Barrel through Sharp.
[00:11:08] Unknown:
Shivery. Quiet.
[00:11:09] Unknown:
Would your honor be wanting me to sing another song? My honor would like you to shut up that filthy catawarn. Realness. I really like that filthy kettle boy. Realness, sir. Realness, call him a policeman.
[00:11:18] Unknown:
Sean, please go on with your singing. In Dublin's fair city. You heard me, you great dog fucking asshole. I said shut up, but I meant shout.
[00:11:28] Unknown:
Oh, Jeffrey. I'm leaving here at once. Michael, please take me home. It will be my pleasure, Molly. You're an ugly man, mister Henkin, knocking down poor Sean when he was singing just like a bird. No devil with him and all of you. No Irishman will be out there forgiving you for this night's work. No. Not the little people of old Ireland either. You've made more enemies, mister Henkin, than you'll ever see. But you'll be no one there there. Little sticks. You can't find me with your stupid Irish superstition.
[00:11:56] Unknown:
Well, bless my soul. That was a charming little party on here, I must say. Englishmen like Hankin are a disgrace to that country. Fortunately, they're not represented at all. Yes. I must say I'd hate to have a curse put on me like that barmaid laid on him. Watson?
[00:12:10] Unknown:
Yeah? Did you see the glances at which mister Hankins' partner and his wife exchanged as the brawl started? There was more menace to him in those glances
[00:12:21] Unknown:
than in all the threats of all the little people in Ireland. Yes. I thought that there was something between them. I'd say, Holmes, that bet about Hank him kissing the Blarney Stone at noon tomorrow, do you suppose There's nothing, Othello,
[00:12:35] Unknown:
that there are forces at work here that I don't like. I think, Watson, that, you and I will be at the Blindest Stone at noon tomorrow. It's possible that the bet made tonight is all part of a definite plan, and I have a feeling that the bet is still on. It's quite windy up here today, old fellow, at the top of the tower, isn't it? Yes. It's just past noon. I wonder if that man Hankin is going to keep to the terms of his best. We shall soon learn. In the meanwhile, are you sure that you wouldn't like to change your mind and kiss the Blanist stone yourself? I'm quite sure they could. Here they come now. Yes. Hankin and his partner, mister Cochran.
The bet is on Watson. Good day to you, gentlemen.
[00:13:26] Unknown:
Oh, hello. It's my friends from last night. Well, I see you're going through with the bet, son. Oh, yes. Jeffrey set his mind in the £10 of mine. Your wife didn't come near, mister Hankin. No. She didn't. I'm afraid I'm rather in disgrace for my behavior last night. Molly made me go around and see that waiter fella that I hit. I offered him money, but he wouldn't take it.
[00:13:44] Unknown:
Did you offer him an apology? Apologize
[00:13:47] Unknown:
to a waiter? I should say not. Roy, come on. Let's get this stupid fuss over with. Are you sure your nerves can stand it, Jeffrey? There's a drop of a hundred feet or more below you. Oh, don't worry about me, Michael. Just hold on to my ankles tightly, and don't let go. I'll come onto the parapet.
[00:14:06] Unknown:
There we are. Now hold onto my feet, Michael, and lower me gently.
[00:14:11] Unknown:
I'm holding you, Jeffrey. The lower way. Yeah. Right you are, Jeffrey.
[00:14:15] Unknown:
Great stuff. I wouldn't do that for a hundred pounds. Sliding head first on a vertical wall. That's enough, Margo. I can reach the stone. Oh, his boots. They're slipping through my fingers. I can't hold him. Help me help you. I'm dizzy. Hold on to him. Hold on to him. Oh, he's gone. I just couldn't hold him.
[00:14:37] Unknown:
Great heavens. No man could survive that drop. Mister Cochrane, you deliberately let your partner slip to his death. This is murder.
[00:14:45] Unknown:
Yeah. But I don't understand.
[00:14:47] Unknown:
I I'm a strong man, but he just vanished out of my hands like like a greased pig. Let me see your hands, mister Cochrane. This is dreadful. Dreadful. There's grease on your hands. Grease And with a faint trace of boot blacking. Good lord, Holmes. That means Watson, that someone knowing that Hankin was going to kiss the bar and stone, smear his boots with grease so that he would slip out of the grasp of whoever was holding him. As clever a method of indirect long distance murders ever I've encountered.
[00:15:23] Unknown:
You'll hear the remainder of doctor Watson's story in just a second, so I'm going to remind you that Petri California sherry is not only wonderful before dinner, but it's good almost any time. If you had to choose just one wine for almost any occasion, that wine would be Petri Sherry. Petri Sherry is a perfect wine to serve in the afternoon or in the evening. It's good before dinner, yes. But it's swell after dinner too. In fact, with a bottle of Petri Sherry on your shelf, you've got practically a small sized wine cellar. So get a bottle of Petri Sherry soon.
And remember, you can't miss with any wine that has the letters P E T R I on the label, because all Petri wine is good wine. Well, Doctor. Watson, this is quite a story you're telling us tonight. What happened next? I suppose you went down into the castle grounds and lived for the dead man's body. Well, we tried to, mister Bartel, but the authorities were curiously uncooperative.
[00:16:22] Unknown:
They refused to let us search, insisting that the police be called first. And so, mister Bartel, half an hour after the tragedy, Holmes and I found ourselves standing in a tiny police station as we told the story to the local sergeant.
[00:16:37] Unknown:
Short distance be praised, mister Holmes. It is a terrible story you've told me. Tomorrow, I'll be after a restaurant, Sean O'Flaherty. Sean O'Flaherty? He's the waiter at the end, the one who sings. That he is. That he is. And he sings like a breath of spring. I'll be sorry to see him hang. But tell you, you've got no proof that he was responsible for the murder? Proof, you say, sir? Well, I can't arrest a big man of factory man like mister Cochran, can I? Or a fine lady like missus Hanks. But you can't arrest a man without any evidence of guilt. Oh, I can't, can't I? Then suppose may I tell you that Sean O'Farrady cleans the boots at the hotel where mister Hank had wished to stay in. He does,
[00:17:12] Unknown:
Then he had the perfect opportunity for the greasing of Hamkin's boots this morning,
[00:17:17] Unknown:
and we know he had a motive for harming him. You're right, sir. And for what I have hoarded the dead man's behavior last night, half a dozen people could have hoarded make the bet that he'd kissed the blarney stone today. Sean O'Farrell's our man. I'll have to arrest him tomorrow. Tomorrow? But good heavens, man, aren't you going to do something today? A murderer is at large. Today is blessed Saint Patrick's Day. Oh, I should've let the poor fellow have the day in peace. Oh, he won't run away. Thank you, sir. Will you come back with me to the castle and search for the body? They refuse to let me do it alone. On Saint Patrick's Day? That I will not. We would need a crew of helpers. Where will I be after getting them on the place in Saint Patrick's Day? No. No. I won't do that tomorrow too. No. Today is a day for celebration. Oh, your your mother's astound, miss sergeant. Do they know, sir? Don't be hard to threaten about me. Just enjoy yourself today. Tomorrow, we'll see what can be done about it. Well, good day to you, gentlemen.
[00:18:10] Unknown:
Oh, oh, bless myself. I never seen such a happy go lucky policeman in my life. It's infuriating.
[00:18:15] Unknown:
If only I were allowed to examine Hankins' body, I could get to the bottom of this. Well, what are you gonna do now, Holmes? Police won't help us. Then we must take the law into our own hands. I think we'll start off by going to the hotel and seeing what we can find out from Sean O'Flaty.
[00:18:39] Unknown:
As I was going to Bell in your day, I will remember for to view the lads and lasses. On the November with a mooring do a day and a mooring do a day. Oh, your honors would be after speaking to me, Sean, or clarity perhaps. Yes, Sean. Did you know that mister Hankin, the man who struck you last night, was dead? Dead. Well, if he were a man deserved to be beneath the search was Geoffrey Hankin himself, a mean, ugly man. The sage be praised that he's gone. How did he die, sir? He was murdered. Murdered? But but, dad, I'm not surprised to hear it. Who murdered him, sir? At the moment, the police seem to think that,
[00:19:16] Unknown:
you are the culprit.
[00:19:17] Unknown:
Myself?
[00:19:19] Unknown:
Well, how would I be after murdering the man, sir, when I don't even know how he died? He died when he fell from the top of Blahnik Castle as he was trying to kiss the stone. He fell because mister Cochrane, his partner, couldn't hold on to his feet. His boots have been greased. And we know that you have been cleaning his boots, Sean. That I have, sir. I cleaned them this very morning.
[00:19:38] Unknown:
But I put no grease on them if that's what you'd be after suggesting. I'm suggesting nothing. I am trying to establish a few facts. Do you know Kathleen the barmaid? Oh, and why shouldn't? I know her, sir. She's the beamy wife before the winter sets in. No. She pronounced a curse on the dead man last night just after it knocked you down. It's possible that, she left Here she comes, hon. Sean, my darling, what are the fine gentlemen doing for me? Oh, Kathleen. They've come to ask me questions about the death of mister Hankin.
[00:20:05] Unknown:
He fell off Blarney Castle today and got himself murdered, they say. The saints be praised. But,
[00:20:12] Unknown:
but what is that to do with you, my darling? Well, the gentleman tell me that the village police think that I might have greased his boots so that he slipped to his death. The village police is as stupid as my father's big sow. If mister Henkin fell to his death today because his boots were greased, I can tell you who did it. Indeed who? The little people. I warned mister Henkin last night that the little people had be after him. He insulted the Irish. Oh, come. Come. Come, my dear. You don't seriously expect us to believe in the in the little people? And why not, your honor? We have them here. All of them say the fairies all be dead, but but I know different. I've seen them. When I was a slip of a girl close to where I live, there was a rat.
That's a fort, you know. And the rat was a fairies fort. We never dare touch it with a spade or or cut down a tree growing on her to carry away a stone. We put our ear to the ground at night, and we could hear the fairy music rising up from under the ground. Oh, they're gentle people most of the time, but they'd grease the boots of a man like mister Hankin if they didn't like them. That they would, your honor. Holmes, I'm certain that we are wasting our time here. I feel so, Watson. You get the whole thing turned on the greasing of those boots.
[00:21:25] Unknown:
If only I could have the boots in my hands. If only I could make laboratory tests. But until that dolt of a police but, of course, I have it, Watson. You have what, Holmes? The answer, I hope. Get hold of missus Hankin and mister Cochrane. Have them meet me in the town tower in half an hour. And you? Where are you going? To the police station to try and convince the sergeant that even though it's Saint Patrick's day, it's his duty to help me trap a murderer.
[00:22:01] Unknown:
Do you know, mister Holmes, you're an obstinate man? It's blessed at Saint Patrick's Day, and yet you insist that we meet here on the top of Barney Castle. What do you think you can prove? Who murdered Jeffrey Hankin? First, but why do Molly and I have to be here? Yes, mister Holmes. And poor Jeffrey's body's still lying somewhere below us. Missus Hankin and mister
[00:22:19] Unknown:
Cochran, I asked doctor Watson to bring you here for a good reason, I assure you. Are you ready, Watson? Quite ready, Holmes. Good. Sergeant? Yes, sir. You asked me why I've assembled the three of you here. I'm going to reconstruct the crime. I shall play the part of the victim. My friend, doctor Watson, will represent you, mister Cochrane. Now I straddle the parapet. So, Watson, hold on to my feet, Will.
[00:22:46] Unknown:
I've got him home.
[00:22:47] Unknown:
And, lower me down the face of the wall. Right. You're not
[00:22:51] Unknown:
Holmes Holmes, hold tight to the wall. Hold tight. Try and push yourself back. The murderer is tied to get you. Your hooves are covered in grease. Man, come away. I might, Charles Alex. I've got him, Holmes. Come. Up your turn. There we go. Oh, I got your butt. That was a near thing. Devilish butt, sergeant.
[00:23:10] Unknown:
Very heavily carried out. And my boots were ungreased when I entered the castle. And yet someone has been able to apply grease to them without my knowledge within the last few minutes. Sure. And how is that possible, sir? I don't know, sergeant. I must confess. Holmes, you stumbled as you came up the dark staircase. Do you remember that? I'm sure I've forgotten. And you, missus Hankin, and you, mister Cochran, were kind enough to assist me to my feet. An excellent opportunity to apply the grease. Now we know that one of you too is the murderer and must have a jar of grease somewhere. Now sergeant, will you search the lady while I search mister Cochran? But this is ridiculous. Of course, it is. How could we be guilty? Well, if you're not guilty, you should've got no objection to being searched, ma'am. Upon my word, here in your post, missus Hayton, there's a jar of grease. What? Now what have you to say of yourself? What can't you say, sergeant? Except that she engineered her husband's murder and tried to engineer mine. Oh, no. No. I knew nothing about Jeffrey's murder. Oh, Michael darling, I swear to you. Don't worry, my darling. I'll not let them hurt you. I'm telling you you're wrong, mister Holmes.
[00:24:05] Unknown:
I I was the murderer.
[00:24:08] Unknown:
Oh, no, Michael.
[00:24:09] Unknown:
You mustn't sacrifice yourself for me. I think this little play acting has gone far enough. Mister Cochran, you have just offered us what you think we will accept as a false confession. But I've established the one thing I wish to know, that you love your late partner's wife and she you. I'm proud to admit that, mister Holmes. And now that she's a widow, I can say it's in the open. But what are you implying? That you murdered your partner. But but the grease on your own good, sir. I just found a jar at missus Hanker's handbag. Oh, that, my dear sergeant, was all part of my little plan. As to the grease on my boots, I confess I placed it there myself just as I planted the jar of grease in your bag, miss Wyer. Home.
A fraud accomplished two ends. It forced you, mister Cochran, into a portrayal of your love. But what was more important, it proved from what doctor Watson's natural reactions were that a man holding the creased boots could not fail to realize that fact at once. You brazenly committed murder before our very eyes, mister Cochran, hoping to appear as an innocent victim of another's plot. Your theory is an ingenious one, mister Holmes. But how can you prove it? I can claim that my hands are unusually insensitive, not the delicate of a doctor like your friend. Yes. He's right, sir. How can you prove it? When, with your kind cooperation, sergeant, we find the body of mister Hankin and examine it, I shall study his boots.
If the grease was applied at the hotel as it would have been if, Sean O'Flaherty had done it, the boots will reveal dust from the walk here. If there is no dust, the grease must have been applied as you grasped your partner's boots with grease smeared hands, mister Cochran.
[00:25:45] Unknown:
You should know best what my tests will reveal. Pardon. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab Scotty, he jumped off the parapet. No, mister Holmes. You can see here that I was right, sir. Wasn't I? What do you mean, sergeant? And waiting until tomorrow to get the search party.
[00:26:07] Unknown:
Now we can be after finding both parties at the one
[00:26:14] Unknown:
time.
[00:26:24] Unknown:
Well, doctor, that was, it was really an unusual story.
[00:26:28] Unknown:
Now I get a bit of a shudder when I think of that afternoon at the castle. I don't blame you.
[00:26:34] Unknown:
Doctor, you know something, earlier this evening, I said that if I ever got to Ireland, I'd certainly wanna kiss the Blarney Stone. Remember? Yeah. Well, I've changed my mind. I no more want to hang by my heels to kiss that stone than, well,
[00:26:50] Unknown:
just let's forget. But my boy, don't forget. If you kiss that stone, you get the gift of eloquence. You'd be the most convincing fellow in the world. So? So? Well, whenever you talked about Petrie Wine, you'd really do people a favor because they wouldn't be able to resist trying it. Oh, talking about Petri wine isn't important, doctor.
[00:27:12] Unknown:
The best way to determine just how good Petri wine really is is to taste it. One sip and there's all the proof you need. That's because the Petri family has developed the art of wine making to a truly fine point. They've been making wine for generations. And all of the things the Petri family knows about turning luscious sun ripened grapes into fragrant delicious wine, have been handed on down in the family from father to son, from father to son. That's why whenever you want to swell wine for any occasion, you can't go wrong with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine.
[00:27:54] Unknown:
Well, doctor Watson, what new Sherlock Holmes story are you planning to tell us next week? Well, now let me see. Next week, mister Bartel, I'm gonna tell you a a story in which that arch criminal, professor Moriarty, played a most important part. It deals with the theft of a famous painting of a strange night that Sherlock Holmes and I spent trapped in the interior of a giant metal vault and of mysterious bloodstains in an empty room.
[00:28:42] Unknown:
Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in this Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Case of Identity. Music is by Dean Foster. Mister Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and mister Bruce through the courtesy of Universal Pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petrie family.
For a solid hour of exciting mystery dramas, listen every Monday on most of these same stations at 08:00 to Bulldog Drummond followed immediately by Sherlock Holmes. This is the mutual broadcasting system.
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:
Petrie Wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce in the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invite you to listen to doctor Watson tell us another story about his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And incidentally, I'd like to tell you about a swell American custom. The custom of serving sherry wine just before dinner. Petri California sherry. You know, especially when you have guests while you're waiting for that call to the dinner table, there's nothing better than a good glass of that good Petri sherry. You don't need fancy glasses for Petri sherry. No, sir. That wine tastes good out of any glass. And it looks good too.
Beautifully clear and the color of precious amber. Just try that Petri Sherry and you'll feel like smacking your lips after every sip. Oh, and say, Petri makes two kinds of sherry. The regular sherry and Petri pale dry sherry. Just to make sure you get the perfect sherry for the whole family, don't buy one, buy two. But do be sure the sherry you buy is Petri sherry. Petri, the proudest name in the history of American wine. And now I'm sure our good friend, doctor Watson's ready for us. Let's go in and join him.
[00:02:27] Unknown:
There you are, mister Bartel. Good evening, doctor. Say, where are the puppies this evening? Mister Bartel, don't you think it's about time you began to refer to them as the dogs? They're almost a year old, you know. I stand corrected. Where are the dogs this evening? Well, they had another furious battle with a dead seal on the beach today. My housekeeper, Mrs. West is giving them a much needed bath.
[00:02:48] Unknown:
They certainly have an aversion to seals, don't they? Well, doctor, are you all ready with tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure? Yes, my boy. And as yesterday was Saint Patrick's day,
[00:02:57] Unknown:
I decided to tell you a story that took place in Ireland, a few years before the turn of the century. I imagine that you've heard of kissing the Blarney Stone, haven't you? Oh, yes, doctor. Though I've never understood exactly what it meant. Well, let me explain it to you because the ceremony plays a a very important part in the story tonight. Blarney Castle is an imposing fifteenth century ruin a few miles outside the town of Cork. The castle is many stories high and in the foremost tower, the famous Blarney Stone is is situated. What's supposed to be the point in kissing it, doctor? The stone is considered a powerful talisman and the legend runs that whoever kisses it is endowed with eloquence for life.
[00:03:36] Unknown:
Say doctor, if I ever get over to Ireland, I'll certainly kiss that stone. But you're such a storyteller yourself, doctor. How about you've kissed it, No, mister Barthel. I'm afraid I never had quite enough courage. Courage?
[00:03:50] Unknown:
Why does it need courage, doctor? Because the bloody stone is is set in a most inaccessible position on the outside wall. To kiss it, it is customary to lower the candidate for eloquence over the rampart, head foremost with a friend hanging onto his heels. From the top of a castle? It does sound dangerous, doctor. Oh, it was my boy. So much so that in recent years, a great row of iron spikes has put around the parapet to prevent an accident. Though, of course, at the time tonight's story took place, there was no such guard. And I have a feeling that an accident did take place, doctor. No. No. No. No. No. Mister Bartell, let me tell you the story from the beginning. Sherlock Holmes and I were staying in the city of Cork, where the great man had just solved the singular affair which the local press had referred to as the leprechaun murders.
A few days before our departure from England, we paid a visit to Blarney Castle. I must confess that I had a certain desire to test the miraculous powers attributed to the Blarney Stone. I will soon change my mind, however, as Holmes and I stood there high on the turrets of Blarney Castle and watched a terrified initiate being hauled up by his ankles and yelling at the top of his voice. Pull me up. Fill me up quickly. I think I'm going to faint.
[00:05:03] Unknown:
Great, Scott. I had no idea that kissing the bar in stone was such a hazardous proceeding, Who cares? It would seem that eloquence could be more easily obtained than by hanging suspended by one's ankles from a battlement with a hundred foot drop below and kissing a piece of stone? Oh, I'll never lose that again. Oh, I'll never lose that again. I must say, I don't blame the full eye. And yet, my dear chap, on our way over here, you expressed a sneaking desire to kiss the stone yourself. I'll be very happy to hold your ankles if you wanna try the experiment. No. No. Thank you. After witnessing the ceremony, I've changed my mind. Then I suggest we make our way back downstairs. I don't think there's much more to be seen up here. Well, by the way, Holmes, do you know the origin of the superstition regarding the the Blaney stone? Yes. I do, old chap. The stone was, story of the stone dates back to the middle of the fifteenth century. A certain Cormac McCarthy called the strong, a descendant of the ancient kings of Munster and builder of this castle, chanced one day to save an old woman from drowning. In her gratitude, she offered Cormac a golden tongue which would have the power to influence men and women, friends and foes as he willed.
She told him to mount the battle and kiss a certain stone in the wall, five feet below the gallery running around the top. He followed her directions and obtained all the fluent persuasiveness
[00:06:10] Unknown:
she had promised. And I suppose the story spread and the brown stone has been a magnet to pilgrims ever since. Yeah. That's pleasant legend. Holmes. Yes, old chap. Tomorrow's Saint Patrick's Day. I I bet there'll be quite a bit of excitement in the village tonight. Don't you think it'd be rather fun to pay a visit to one of the local inns? Splendid idea, Roger.
[00:06:27] Unknown:
Our rather arduous work here in Ireland is concluded, and I think we're more than entitled to a little guiety.
[00:06:53] Unknown:
Charming. Quite charming. A waiter and singing at his word. Singing very well too. Just the same. I wish someone would come and take out our order. Oh, there's a barmaid. I'll see if I can catch her eye. Hi. Miss? Miss? Would you gentlemen be after wanting something? Yes, my dear. My friend and I would like a little refreshment. And what would you suggest? What would I suggest, your honor? Oh, begotter.
[00:07:12] Unknown:
There is but one drink a gentleman like yourself should be after pouring down you, and that's the cream of Carnivora. Whiskey that'll soften your heart and and make you glow with a good feeling so so that the little people will be after visiting you. It sounds delightful. Bring two glasses, will you? Yes, your honor. Yes, your honor.
[00:07:30] Unknown:
I must say I never heard an English barmaid go in such rhapsody over a nipple with you. No. The Irish are distinctly more colorful in their speech. It's an interesting fact though, Watson, that, the Irish are curiously unrewarding in the criminal world. England, Scotland, America, Australia have all produced classics of crime, but the Irish murders, almost without exception, have been purely physical
[00:07:51] Unknown:
affairs of hot blood. You say that rather regretfully, Holmes?
[00:07:55] Unknown:
No, madam chair. No. No. No. I say Watson.
[00:07:58] Unknown:
Look at this rather florid looking gentleman coming towards our table. It looks to me as if he's a little under the weather. You fellas have gotta have a drink with me. Oh, thank you, sir. Thank you. But we've just ordered one. Well, you've got to have it with me. I went to the races at Cork today and made a killing. I'm gonna buy all the drinks here tonight. I'm afraid the television Nothing you're afraid of. I'll I'll sit down with you for a moment.
[00:08:19] Unknown:
Here. My name's Hankin, Geoffrey Hankin. What's yours? Mine is Holmes, and this is my friend, doctor Watson. How do you do, sir? How do you do? Your honors. There'll be one in six Hey. I'm paying for these here.
[00:08:30] Unknown:
Half a crown, and you can keep the chain. Blessings on you. Here I am. Oh, well, if you insist on paying for our drinks, mister Hankin, here's your very good help. Yes. Indeed. You're, both English, aren't you? Yes, sir. So am I. It's certainly a relief to hear an English voice again. Oh, you don't like the Irish lilt, sir? Can't bear it. Personally, I find it rather chance. Yes. Indeed. So do I. Well, you wouldn't if you had to live with it all the time. Sometimes I think that if I hear one more Irish tenor singing Molly Malone or one more reference to the little people, I shall go raving mad.
You live in Ireland, sir? Yeah. I have to. I own a half interest in a trade mill here. You see? In any case, my wife's Irish, and she thinks there's no other country in the world. So I suppose I'm stuck here.
[00:09:11] Unknown:
See that couple sitting at the table over there? You mean the fellow with a with a very beautiful girl? Yes.
[00:09:17] Unknown:
Man's Michael Caulker and my partner. Oh, the girl's absolutely ravishing.
[00:09:21] Unknown:
You'd like to meet her? I'd like to invite George. Yes. What what do you say, home? Oh, well, Watson, the combination of my natural curiosity and your taste for a pretty face would, seem to suit the occasion admirably.
[00:09:31] Unknown:
And I might as well warn you, doctor, that the pretty face
[00:09:34] Unknown:
belongs to my wife. Your wife? Oh, good question. I'm sorry. I I I didn't mean to Oh, you better bring your glasses with you.
[00:09:45] Unknown:
Morning, my dear. I want you to meet two English friends of mine, mister Holmes and, doctor Watson. How do you do? How do you do, mister Holmes, doctor Watson? Won't you sit down and join us? And this is my partner, Michael Cochrane. How do you do, mister Cochrane? How do you do, sir? I'm glad to meet you. Please be seated, gentlemen. Are you visiting here in court? Yes, missus Ankin. But, we are returning to England in a few days. You've been to Blarney Castle, I hope? Oh, yes. We were there this afternoon. And, did either of you have the courage to kiss the Blarney Stone? No. No. We didn't. I'm afraid it's an athletic feat that's beyond me. It's a lot of rubbish. That's what it is. Just do a slab of stone. Have you the courage to do it, Jeffrey? Of course, I have. But I don't wanna make a fool of myself. Where's the barmaid?
[00:10:27] Unknown:
Kathleen. I'll make a wager, Jeffrey, that you haven't the courage to kiss the stone. How much shall you bet, Michael? I'll wager a £10 note on it. It's a bet. And you fellas witnessed it. I'll kiss the bloody stone at noon tomorrow, and you'll be £10 the poorer, Michael. And I suggest that mister Holmes and doctor Watson be present as well. They can act as referees. Jeffrey, dear, don't get so excited. Well, I don't like it when Michael suggests I don't have courage. You want some more drink, mister Henley? Yes, ma'am. I just want to say no more for me. Thank you. No. No. No. No. No. No more for me. Thank you. You've had enough, Jeffrey. Don't tell me when I've had enough more. In Dublin, fair city, the girl is not Oh, no. Not that filth. It's all. Definitely, mister Hagen. I find the little Irish miller. It's quite beautiful, and I find the roof. Barrel through Sharp.
[00:11:08] Unknown:
Shivery. Quiet.
[00:11:09] Unknown:
Would your honor be wanting me to sing another song? My honor would like you to shut up that filthy catawarn. Realness. I really like that filthy kettle boy. Realness, sir. Realness, call him a policeman.
[00:11:18] Unknown:
Sean, please go on with your singing. In Dublin's fair city. You heard me, you great dog fucking asshole. I said shut up, but I meant shout.
[00:11:28] Unknown:
Oh, Jeffrey. I'm leaving here at once. Michael, please take me home. It will be my pleasure, Molly. You're an ugly man, mister Henkin, knocking down poor Sean when he was singing just like a bird. No devil with him and all of you. No Irishman will be out there forgiving you for this night's work. No. Not the little people of old Ireland either. You've made more enemies, mister Henkin, than you'll ever see. But you'll be no one there there. Little sticks. You can't find me with your stupid Irish superstition.
[00:11:56] Unknown:
Well, bless my soul. That was a charming little party on here, I must say. Englishmen like Hankin are a disgrace to that country. Fortunately, they're not represented at all. Yes. I must say I'd hate to have a curse put on me like that barmaid laid on him. Watson?
[00:12:10] Unknown:
Yeah? Did you see the glances at which mister Hankins' partner and his wife exchanged as the brawl started? There was more menace to him in those glances
[00:12:21] Unknown:
than in all the threats of all the little people in Ireland. Yes. I thought that there was something between them. I'd say, Holmes, that bet about Hank him kissing the Blarney Stone at noon tomorrow, do you suppose There's nothing, Othello,
[00:12:35] Unknown:
that there are forces at work here that I don't like. I think, Watson, that, you and I will be at the Blindest Stone at noon tomorrow. It's possible that the bet made tonight is all part of a definite plan, and I have a feeling that the bet is still on. It's quite windy up here today, old fellow, at the top of the tower, isn't it? Yes. It's just past noon. I wonder if that man Hankin is going to keep to the terms of his best. We shall soon learn. In the meanwhile, are you sure that you wouldn't like to change your mind and kiss the Blanist stone yourself? I'm quite sure they could. Here they come now. Yes. Hankin and his partner, mister Cochran.
The bet is on Watson. Good day to you, gentlemen.
[00:13:26] Unknown:
Oh, hello. It's my friends from last night. Well, I see you're going through with the bet, son. Oh, yes. Jeffrey set his mind in the £10 of mine. Your wife didn't come near, mister Hankin. No. She didn't. I'm afraid I'm rather in disgrace for my behavior last night. Molly made me go around and see that waiter fella that I hit. I offered him money, but he wouldn't take it.
[00:13:44] Unknown:
Did you offer him an apology? Apologize
[00:13:47] Unknown:
to a waiter? I should say not. Roy, come on. Let's get this stupid fuss over with. Are you sure your nerves can stand it, Jeffrey? There's a drop of a hundred feet or more below you. Oh, don't worry about me, Michael. Just hold on to my ankles tightly, and don't let go. I'll come onto the parapet.
[00:14:06] Unknown:
There we are. Now hold onto my feet, Michael, and lower me gently.
[00:14:11] Unknown:
I'm holding you, Jeffrey. The lower way. Yeah. Right you are, Jeffrey.
[00:14:15] Unknown:
Great stuff. I wouldn't do that for a hundred pounds. Sliding head first on a vertical wall. That's enough, Margo. I can reach the stone. Oh, his boots. They're slipping through my fingers. I can't hold him. Help me help you. I'm dizzy. Hold on to him. Hold on to him. Oh, he's gone. I just couldn't hold him.
[00:14:37] Unknown:
Great heavens. No man could survive that drop. Mister Cochrane, you deliberately let your partner slip to his death. This is murder.
[00:14:45] Unknown:
Yeah. But I don't understand.
[00:14:47] Unknown:
I I'm a strong man, but he just vanished out of my hands like like a greased pig. Let me see your hands, mister Cochrane. This is dreadful. Dreadful. There's grease on your hands. Grease And with a faint trace of boot blacking. Good lord, Holmes. That means Watson, that someone knowing that Hankin was going to kiss the bar and stone, smear his boots with grease so that he would slip out of the grasp of whoever was holding him. As clever a method of indirect long distance murders ever I've encountered.
[00:15:23] Unknown:
You'll hear the remainder of doctor Watson's story in just a second, so I'm going to remind you that Petri California sherry is not only wonderful before dinner, but it's good almost any time. If you had to choose just one wine for almost any occasion, that wine would be Petri Sherry. Petri Sherry is a perfect wine to serve in the afternoon or in the evening. It's good before dinner, yes. But it's swell after dinner too. In fact, with a bottle of Petri Sherry on your shelf, you've got practically a small sized wine cellar. So get a bottle of Petri Sherry soon.
And remember, you can't miss with any wine that has the letters P E T R I on the label, because all Petri wine is good wine. Well, Doctor. Watson, this is quite a story you're telling us tonight. What happened next? I suppose you went down into the castle grounds and lived for the dead man's body. Well, we tried to, mister Bartel, but the authorities were curiously uncooperative.
[00:16:22] Unknown:
They refused to let us search, insisting that the police be called first. And so, mister Bartel, half an hour after the tragedy, Holmes and I found ourselves standing in a tiny police station as we told the story to the local sergeant.
[00:16:37] Unknown:
Short distance be praised, mister Holmes. It is a terrible story you've told me. Tomorrow, I'll be after a restaurant, Sean O'Flaherty. Sean O'Flaherty? He's the waiter at the end, the one who sings. That he is. That he is. And he sings like a breath of spring. I'll be sorry to see him hang. But tell you, you've got no proof that he was responsible for the murder? Proof, you say, sir? Well, I can't arrest a big man of factory man like mister Cochran, can I? Or a fine lady like missus Hanks. But you can't arrest a man without any evidence of guilt. Oh, I can't, can't I? Then suppose may I tell you that Sean O'Farrady cleans the boots at the hotel where mister Hank had wished to stay in. He does,
[00:17:12] Unknown:
Then he had the perfect opportunity for the greasing of Hamkin's boots this morning,
[00:17:17] Unknown:
and we know he had a motive for harming him. You're right, sir. And for what I have hoarded the dead man's behavior last night, half a dozen people could have hoarded make the bet that he'd kissed the blarney stone today. Sean O'Farrell's our man. I'll have to arrest him tomorrow. Tomorrow? But good heavens, man, aren't you going to do something today? A murderer is at large. Today is blessed Saint Patrick's Day. Oh, I should've let the poor fellow have the day in peace. Oh, he won't run away. Thank you, sir. Will you come back with me to the castle and search for the body? They refuse to let me do it alone. On Saint Patrick's Day? That I will not. We would need a crew of helpers. Where will I be after getting them on the place in Saint Patrick's Day? No. No. I won't do that tomorrow too. No. Today is a day for celebration. Oh, your your mother's astound, miss sergeant. Do they know, sir? Don't be hard to threaten about me. Just enjoy yourself today. Tomorrow, we'll see what can be done about it. Well, good day to you, gentlemen.
[00:18:10] Unknown:
Oh, oh, bless myself. I never seen such a happy go lucky policeman in my life. It's infuriating.
[00:18:15] Unknown:
If only I were allowed to examine Hankins' body, I could get to the bottom of this. Well, what are you gonna do now, Holmes? Police won't help us. Then we must take the law into our own hands. I think we'll start off by going to the hotel and seeing what we can find out from Sean O'Flaty.
[00:18:39] Unknown:
As I was going to Bell in your day, I will remember for to view the lads and lasses. On the November with a mooring do a day and a mooring do a day. Oh, your honors would be after speaking to me, Sean, or clarity perhaps. Yes, Sean. Did you know that mister Hankin, the man who struck you last night, was dead? Dead. Well, if he were a man deserved to be beneath the search was Geoffrey Hankin himself, a mean, ugly man. The sage be praised that he's gone. How did he die, sir? He was murdered. Murdered? But but, dad, I'm not surprised to hear it. Who murdered him, sir? At the moment, the police seem to think that,
[00:19:16] Unknown:
you are the culprit.
[00:19:17] Unknown:
Myself?
[00:19:19] Unknown:
Well, how would I be after murdering the man, sir, when I don't even know how he died? He died when he fell from the top of Blahnik Castle as he was trying to kiss the stone. He fell because mister Cochrane, his partner, couldn't hold on to his feet. His boots have been greased. And we know that you have been cleaning his boots, Sean. That I have, sir. I cleaned them this very morning.
[00:19:38] Unknown:
But I put no grease on them if that's what you'd be after suggesting. I'm suggesting nothing. I am trying to establish a few facts. Do you know Kathleen the barmaid? Oh, and why shouldn't? I know her, sir. She's the beamy wife before the winter sets in. No. She pronounced a curse on the dead man last night just after it knocked you down. It's possible that, she left Here she comes, hon. Sean, my darling, what are the fine gentlemen doing for me? Oh, Kathleen. They've come to ask me questions about the death of mister Hankin.
[00:20:05] Unknown:
He fell off Blarney Castle today and got himself murdered, they say. The saints be praised. But,
[00:20:12] Unknown:
but what is that to do with you, my darling? Well, the gentleman tell me that the village police think that I might have greased his boots so that he slipped to his death. The village police is as stupid as my father's big sow. If mister Henkin fell to his death today because his boots were greased, I can tell you who did it. Indeed who? The little people. I warned mister Henkin last night that the little people had be after him. He insulted the Irish. Oh, come. Come. Come, my dear. You don't seriously expect us to believe in the in the little people? And why not, your honor? We have them here. All of them say the fairies all be dead, but but I know different. I've seen them. When I was a slip of a girl close to where I live, there was a rat.
That's a fort, you know. And the rat was a fairies fort. We never dare touch it with a spade or or cut down a tree growing on her to carry away a stone. We put our ear to the ground at night, and we could hear the fairy music rising up from under the ground. Oh, they're gentle people most of the time, but they'd grease the boots of a man like mister Hankin if they didn't like them. That they would, your honor. Holmes, I'm certain that we are wasting our time here. I feel so, Watson. You get the whole thing turned on the greasing of those boots.
[00:21:25] Unknown:
If only I could have the boots in my hands. If only I could make laboratory tests. But until that dolt of a police but, of course, I have it, Watson. You have what, Holmes? The answer, I hope. Get hold of missus Hankin and mister Cochrane. Have them meet me in the town tower in half an hour. And you? Where are you going? To the police station to try and convince the sergeant that even though it's Saint Patrick's day, it's his duty to help me trap a murderer.
[00:22:01] Unknown:
Do you know, mister Holmes, you're an obstinate man? It's blessed at Saint Patrick's Day, and yet you insist that we meet here on the top of Barney Castle. What do you think you can prove? Who murdered Jeffrey Hankin? First, but why do Molly and I have to be here? Yes, mister Holmes. And poor Jeffrey's body's still lying somewhere below us. Missus Hankin and mister
[00:22:19] Unknown:
Cochran, I asked doctor Watson to bring you here for a good reason, I assure you. Are you ready, Watson? Quite ready, Holmes. Good. Sergeant? Yes, sir. You asked me why I've assembled the three of you here. I'm going to reconstruct the crime. I shall play the part of the victim. My friend, doctor Watson, will represent you, mister Cochrane. Now I straddle the parapet. So, Watson, hold on to my feet, Will.
[00:22:46] Unknown:
I've got him home.
[00:22:47] Unknown:
And, lower me down the face of the wall. Right. You're not
[00:22:51] Unknown:
Holmes Holmes, hold tight to the wall. Hold tight. Try and push yourself back. The murderer is tied to get you. Your hooves are covered in grease. Man, come away. I might, Charles Alex. I've got him, Holmes. Come. Up your turn. There we go. Oh, I got your butt. That was a near thing. Devilish butt, sergeant.
[00:23:10] Unknown:
Very heavily carried out. And my boots were ungreased when I entered the castle. And yet someone has been able to apply grease to them without my knowledge within the last few minutes. Sure. And how is that possible, sir? I don't know, sergeant. I must confess. Holmes, you stumbled as you came up the dark staircase. Do you remember that? I'm sure I've forgotten. And you, missus Hankin, and you, mister Cochran, were kind enough to assist me to my feet. An excellent opportunity to apply the grease. Now we know that one of you too is the murderer and must have a jar of grease somewhere. Now sergeant, will you search the lady while I search mister Cochran? But this is ridiculous. Of course, it is. How could we be guilty? Well, if you're not guilty, you should've got no objection to being searched, ma'am. Upon my word, here in your post, missus Hayton, there's a jar of grease. What? Now what have you to say of yourself? What can't you say, sergeant? Except that she engineered her husband's murder and tried to engineer mine. Oh, no. No. I knew nothing about Jeffrey's murder. Oh, Michael darling, I swear to you. Don't worry, my darling. I'll not let them hurt you. I'm telling you you're wrong, mister Holmes.
[00:24:05] Unknown:
I I was the murderer.
[00:24:08] Unknown:
Oh, no, Michael.
[00:24:09] Unknown:
You mustn't sacrifice yourself for me. I think this little play acting has gone far enough. Mister Cochran, you have just offered us what you think we will accept as a false confession. But I've established the one thing I wish to know, that you love your late partner's wife and she you. I'm proud to admit that, mister Holmes. And now that she's a widow, I can say it's in the open. But what are you implying? That you murdered your partner. But but the grease on your own good, sir. I just found a jar at missus Hanker's handbag. Oh, that, my dear sergeant, was all part of my little plan. As to the grease on my boots, I confess I placed it there myself just as I planted the jar of grease in your bag, miss Wyer. Home.
A fraud accomplished two ends. It forced you, mister Cochran, into a portrayal of your love. But what was more important, it proved from what doctor Watson's natural reactions were that a man holding the creased boots could not fail to realize that fact at once. You brazenly committed murder before our very eyes, mister Cochran, hoping to appear as an innocent victim of another's plot. Your theory is an ingenious one, mister Holmes. But how can you prove it? I can claim that my hands are unusually insensitive, not the delicate of a doctor like your friend. Yes. He's right, sir. How can you prove it? When, with your kind cooperation, sergeant, we find the body of mister Hankin and examine it, I shall study his boots.
If the grease was applied at the hotel as it would have been if, Sean O'Flaherty had done it, the boots will reveal dust from the walk here. If there is no dust, the grease must have been applied as you grasped your partner's boots with grease smeared hands, mister Cochran.
[00:25:45] Unknown:
You should know best what my tests will reveal. Pardon. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab him. Grab Scotty, he jumped off the parapet. No, mister Holmes. You can see here that I was right, sir. Wasn't I? What do you mean, sergeant? And waiting until tomorrow to get the search party.
[00:26:07] Unknown:
Now we can be after finding both parties at the one
[00:26:14] Unknown:
time.
[00:26:24] Unknown:
Well, doctor, that was, it was really an unusual story.
[00:26:28] Unknown:
Now I get a bit of a shudder when I think of that afternoon at the castle. I don't blame you.
[00:26:34] Unknown:
Doctor, you know something, earlier this evening, I said that if I ever got to Ireland, I'd certainly wanna kiss the Blarney Stone. Remember? Yeah. Well, I've changed my mind. I no more want to hang by my heels to kiss that stone than, well,
[00:26:50] Unknown:
just let's forget. But my boy, don't forget. If you kiss that stone, you get the gift of eloquence. You'd be the most convincing fellow in the world. So? So? Well, whenever you talked about Petrie Wine, you'd really do people a favor because they wouldn't be able to resist trying it. Oh, talking about Petri wine isn't important, doctor.
[00:27:12] Unknown:
The best way to determine just how good Petri wine really is is to taste it. One sip and there's all the proof you need. That's because the Petri family has developed the art of wine making to a truly fine point. They've been making wine for generations. And all of the things the Petri family knows about turning luscious sun ripened grapes into fragrant delicious wine, have been handed on down in the family from father to son, from father to son. That's why whenever you want to swell wine for any occasion, you can't go wrong with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine.
[00:27:54] Unknown:
Well, doctor Watson, what new Sherlock Holmes story are you planning to tell us next week? Well, now let me see. Next week, mister Bartel, I'm gonna tell you a a story in which that arch criminal, professor Moriarty, played a most important part. It deals with the theft of a famous painting of a strange night that Sherlock Holmes and I spent trapped in the interior of a giant metal vault and of mysterious bloodstains in an empty room.
[00:28:42] Unknown:
Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in this Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Case of Identity. Music is by Dean Foster. Mister Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and mister Bruce through the courtesy of Universal Pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petrie family.
For a solid hour of exciting mystery dramas, listen every Monday on most of these same stations at 08:00 to Bulldog Drummond followed immediately by Sherlock Holmes. This is the mutual broadcasting system.
