In this captivating episode, we delve into the intriguing world of classic radio dramas, focusing on the unique challenges faced by South Africa in accessing popular series like 'The Avengers' due to the absence of national television until 1976. We explore how the series managed to gain exposure through film rentals, despite the country's limitations. Additionally, we journey into the world of Sherlock Holmes, as portrayed by Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, in a thrilling adventure set in the mysterious Casbah of Algiers. Holmes and Watson are on a mission to clear the name of Douglas Milton, the rightful heir to the Montrevo estate, who is hiding from the law after being wrongfully accused of murder. The episode is filled with suspense, deception, and a race against time to prevent further tragedy.
As Holmes and Watson navigate the dangerous streets of the Casbah, they encounter a web of intrigue involving a passionate singer named Ayesha, a cunning impersonator, and a deadly confrontation that tests their wits and resolve. The story unfolds with unexpected twists, including a shocking murder and a dramatic revelation about the true identity of the heir. This episode not only highlights the brilliance of Sherlock Holmes' deductive skills but also paints a vivid picture of the vibrant yet perilous world of the Casbah, where danger lurks at every corner and the line between justice and vengeance is perilously thin.
(00:19) The Avengers' Impact in South Africa
(01:06) Sherlock Holmes Broadcast for the Troops
(02:39) A New Case Begins: The Missing Heir
(06:19) The Search in the Casbah
(13:04) A Dangerous Encounter
(19:24) The Real Douglas Milton?
(23:07) The Impostor Unmasked
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Unknown:
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[00:00:14] Unknown:
Terms and points cap apply. 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 filmed 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.
[00:01:06] Unknown:
This episode from the life of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by short wave and through the worldwide facilities of the armed forces radio service. Petri Wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Proust and 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 exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And as for me, well, I'd like to tell you that a time like right now is the perfect time for a glass of Petri California port. After you've had a good dinner, boy Petri port is a real topper.
That rich deep red Petri port is really an extraordinary wine. Even its color is different. And as for its flavor, well it'll take a better man than me to describe that. Petri port is a hearty wine, sure. And every Petriport is a hearty wine, sure. And every other quality that you look for in a good port, you'll find in Petriport and then some. Try Petriport by itself or serve it with fruit, with nuts or with cake. But share it with your friends, will you? Because you can serve it proudly. After all, it is a Petri wine, and that name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wines. And now let's visit our old friend and host, Doctor. Watson. Good evening, Mr. Bartell. Good evening, doctor. Settle yourself down and get your pipe going. Thanks.
Doctor, last week you told us that tonight's story took place in the Casbah at Algiers. Yes. The Casbah.
[00:02:55] Unknown:
I remember it as the place of countless streets winding up and down, past colorful cafes where a hundred tongues were spoken, and often a street would end in shadowy darkness, which a man would be foolhardy to enter alone. Yes, mister Bartell, that was the Casper that Sherlock Holmes and I knew in that winter of ninety nine. Well, how did you happen to be out there, doctor? Do you mind if I tell you the story from the start, mister Bartell? It really began on a wintery night in Baker Street, the conclusion of the strange murder in Montrava Castle.
A charming young girl sat on the sofa of our lodgings in Baker Street and talked to her.
[00:03:35] Unknown:
But, mister Holmes, you can't say you'll have nothing more to do with the laundress. Madame Redfield,
[00:03:39] Unknown:
I found the true murderer of the Dowager Cultures and he committed suicide. Surely, the case has ended. Yes, mister Holmes. You found the real murderer.
[00:03:46] Unknown:
But now I want you to find the unfortunate young man who fled England Five Years ago when he was suspected of a crime. This is a new development, miss Stedfield. Please tell us about it. It's Douglas Milton that I'm talking about. Oh, yes. Yes. Yes. He was the heir to the title, wasn't he? Yes, mister Holmes. He was a sensitive artistic boy, and and when he knew that he was under suspicion, he ran away. Mhmm. Of course, everyone regarded his flight as an as an admission of guilt. That is until you found the real culprit, mister Holmes. I imagine, miss Truffill, that your interest in the missing boy is not entirely, shall we say,
[00:04:16] Unknown:
altruistic?
[00:04:17] Unknown:
I'm in love with him, doctor Watson. Oh. We're engaged to be married when he ran away.
[00:04:22] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, you've got to find him. He must know that his name has been cleared and that he's inherited the title. Miss Redfield, have you any direct news, any letter from your fiancee since he left five years ago? None. Any clues as to his hiding place? Only this.
[00:04:36] Unknown:
It's a painting I received anonymously a year after he had left. Oh. It was sent from a forwarding address in London. Here it is, mister Holmes. Thank you. It's a small oil painting.
[00:04:46] Unknown:
Very good one too, sir.
[00:04:48] Unknown:
Yes. The splendid sense of composition and his use of color is unusually brilliant. You recognize this painting as the work of your fiancee, miss Trefield? I'm certain of it. Yes. Wonderful use of color. Serve the delicate shadings of that sunset and the brilliant green of the oasis. Is seen as extraordinarily reminiscent of the desert in North Africa. Yes. Yes. That's what made me say I was certain he'd gone abroad, mister Holmes. Why should he go to North Africa? A good place, Watson, for an Englishman who imagines himself to be escaping justice. Remember the foreign legion is stationed there. You think he might have joined the legion, mister Holmes? Right. Would seem logical. No question to ask to those who join it, and its colorful obscurity might easily appeal to a young fellow in trouble. Hello? What is it, hon? Quite a few grains of sand in between the canvas and the frame here. Mister Field, do you mind if I pry the canvas loose? Do anything you like, mister Holmes, if it gives you any clue to Douglas's whereabouts. Give me your penknife for you, Watson.
Yeah. Thanks, old chap. Wait a minute. Here we are. Could you see anything? Uh-huh. Look. The word sheriff, and El Afroon
[00:05:55] Unknown:
are stamped here.
[00:05:58] Unknown:
Sheriff is probably the framer's name, and El Afroon is a town some 50 miles from Algiers. That settles it. Miss Stretfield, I accept your case. Watson and I will go to Africa and try to find your fiancee, Douglas Milton.
[00:06:20] Unknown:
Missus Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson, I have heard of you so often, but I never thought I should see you here at the headquarters of the foreign legion. What can I do for you gentlemen? Well, Colonel Brisson,
[00:06:31] Unknown:
I'm, kind of trace an Englishman who has been missing during the past four years. I have reason to believe that he might have joined the legion. Yeah. You should look in my records.
[00:06:42] Unknown:
Let me see. Four years ago would be 1895. If Sherlock Holmes is tracking him, then I suppose he was in trouble in his own country. If he was in trouble, he might easily have come to us. We ask no questions. Ninety seven nights ninety five. In that year, three young Englishmen joined us. One of them died of dysentery two years ago in Sidarajee.
[00:07:04] Unknown:
One of them deserted eighteen months ago, and we have been unable to trace him. The Eternis Majidun who brought you into my office just now. And he is, I would say, about, three inches shorter than Douglas Milston, and men do not, shrink in the foreign nature day, colonel. They do not, mrs. Holmes. And the fellow who deserted must be our man. Unless it's the one who died of dysentery. Colonel de Brisson,
[00:07:25] Unknown:
how would you advise us to set about trying to find a deserter? Missy Holmes, there's only one place in Algeria where a man can hide from the foreign legion and remain in. Oh, what's that place? The Casbah in Algiers.
[00:07:37] Unknown:
Then that's our destination, Watson.
[00:07:39] Unknown:
Be very careful, please gentlemen. The Casbah is a place where the law is exiled. The police have no jurisdiction there. The only rule is that of strength, violence, and. Please be very cautious, I assure you. And
[00:07:53] Unknown:
thank you for your help.
[00:08:13] Unknown:
Well, I must say that I think Colonel de Brisson rather exaggerated the dangers of the Casper. I suppose you're gonna tell me this cafe is the headquarters for a dope smuggling ring off, like slaving or something. Its ramifications are even more extensive
[00:08:28] Unknown:
than those you've mentioned. You're joking, Holmes. I assure you are not, old fellow. My old friend Joamel is chief of police in Algiers. When I told him our mission, he advised me to come here. A CHF500 note, and the proprietor can obtain any and all information regarding the underworld. For as little as CHF200, he can arrange a murder. So that gives you some idea of the relative values in the Casbah. Good lord. Then you've already spoken to the proprietor? Oh, yes. Yes. A charming scoundrel, a fellow by the name of Rafiki. I gave him CHF500 and asked him to set his underworld grapevine in motion to see whether an Englishman living in hiding here in the Casbah
[00:09:03] Unknown:
could be found. And I thought we'd come here for quite a meal.
[00:09:07] Unknown:
Here comes Rocky now. But Toby has news for us. Here we are, Rocky. Come sit down, won't you?
[00:09:14] Unknown:
Rocky works fast. Does he not, mister Horns?
[00:09:18] Unknown:
Your friend is My friend knows
[00:09:23] Unknown:
first. The tongue of Raffi is parched. Would you have me die off first before I give you my news? Where would Cassie?
[00:09:31] Unknown:
You have news for me then?
[00:09:33] Unknown:
You have news for me then? But yes. Good. What is it? First, you will pay me more money. No?
[00:09:39] Unknown:
But I gave you CHF500.
[00:09:41] Unknown:
You said that you do the job for that. Can I help it if some tongues are more costly to make wag than others? It took the 500 to get the wag. Am I to have nothing for my own trouble? Ah, good. Good. The gentleman will pay for it. There you are. Missy, Missy. I will drink to your health, gentlemen, both of you.
[00:10:07] Unknown:
You will pay me more money? No. But my friend's already given you 500. You should stick to your bargain, my good fella.
[00:10:14] Unknown:
My information is a bargain at CHF750. It would be a bargain at a thousand, but Rafie will let you have it for 750 because he likes you. Please. You will give it to me. No? And if I refuse? Then you get no information. And, perhaps I spread news in the Casbah that makes it uncomfortable for you gentlemen to be there. Well, it's Scott. This is blackmail. I get the money. No?
[00:10:43] Unknown:
You're a scoundrel, Ravi. Of course, I am a scoundrel. Okay. Here's your money. And information?
[00:10:50] Unknown:
There is an Englishman hiding here in the Casbah. I do not know his name, but he's tall and fair haired. I cannot tell you where he lives. But if you go to the cafe of a thousand size, you will find a girl who sings there. A girl who sings like a nightingale. Her name is Aisha, and she can lead you to your Englishman. Girl named Daisha.
[00:11:16] Unknown:
The cafe of a thousand size. That is right.
[00:11:19] Unknown:
I would suggest that you go there in disguise. Two well dressed Englishmen might find themselves in trouble. For a small fee, say, CHF200,
[00:11:30] Unknown:
I will escort you the right set. Thank you. Thank you. Yes. I I think we can manage by ourselves, Rafee. Oh,
[00:11:36] Unknown:
if your business is concluded quickly and time weighs heavy on your hands, Rafiki can take you to some places of rare interest. Dancing girls that wither one's eyeballs with our beauty. For CHF500,
[00:11:51] Unknown:
gentlemen thank you, Rafiki. Thank you. I have a feeling that time will not weigh heavily on our hands. Good night.
[00:11:57] Unknown:
You work too hard, gentlemen. You should learn how to play.
[00:12:02] Unknown:
Good night.
[00:12:04] Unknown:
On my soul, I think that fellow is the biggest blackguard I ever met. I quite agree, old Jeffrey. He's amusing. By the way, Holmes, don't you think that when this case is finished, we might have a time on our hands? Oh,
[00:12:17] Unknown:
Watson, you're incorrigible. But I think
[00:12:21] Unknown:
Watson. What is it?
[00:12:22] Unknown:
That the man sitting over in the corner by Oh, Joe. Yes.
[00:12:26] Unknown:
His his face seems familiar.
[00:12:28] Unknown:
Have you seen him before, Summer? Of course, we have. His name is Oliver Leaming. We met him at the inquest on the Montreal case. So we did. Now what else do you suppose he's doing here in the Casper? Not on the holiday, I'm sure. Mister Oliver Leaming, if you recall, is a a cousin of Douglas Milton's, the man's the man we're searching for. If Milton were ever declared legally dead, mister Leaming over there would, inherit the title. Looks to me as if we're not the only people in the Casper who are searching for the missing heir. That's true, fellow. Come on. Let's go and talk to the gentleman. Starlover Leaming. I'm very happy to meet you here. Here. Well, well. Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson, won't you sit down? Thank you. World's a small place at the store. Has somebody said that before?
[00:13:17] Unknown:
I wondered if you'd spot me over here in the corner. Oh, you saw us, sir. Of course. You seem to be in such deep conversation with that scoundrel, Ralphie. I didn't like to disturb you. Very considerate of you, I'm sure. Why are you here, mister Leaming? Oh, I'm making a business trip. This is my day off. As I recall it, you're in the publishing business. Correct.
[00:13:34] Unknown:
What a memory you have. It seems peculiar that you should, be on a business trip here. Are you planning on opening a publishing house in Algiers or are you, searching the Casbah for new authors? Why not? I'm a great believer in encouraging new talent. Mister Leaming, why don't you admit that you are here for the express purpose of trying to find your cousin, Douglas Milton? Mister Holmes, you've discovered my secret. The great Sherlock Holmes and his watchdog
[00:13:58] Unknown:
have their eagle eyes on me. They know that I succeed to the title if Douglas Milton dies. Yes, mister Leaming, we know that fact. And you were fathomed by plan to find Douglas before me and kill him so that I may inherit the title. How lucky I am to meet you in Mothazbah where you cannot arrest me. Well, it's a race against time, gentlemen. But I have a head start as you will soon find out. Goodbye.
[00:14:25] Unknown:
And the best of luck to you.
[00:14:27] Unknown:
You extraordinary fella. He's joking, of course. I believe not, Watson. I think he labors under the whimsical belief that the best method of discounting the truth is to state it as boldly so that it will not be believed. Great. Captain, we must work fast. Yes, old chap. We must. I'm sure that we're entrance in a race against death. Let's get back to the hotel and into our disguises as quickly as possible. After that, we shall visit a young lady named Ayesha on the cafe of a thousand size. And I'm certain, Watson, that it will be the first time two men have ever entered the for the express purpose of preventing a murder.
[00:15:09] Unknown:
We'll hear the rest of Doctor. Watson's story in just about a second, which gives me time to remind you that if you like the flavor of big plump juicy Muscat grapes, you'll love the flavor of Petri California Muscatell. What a wine. Petri Muscatel is the perfect after dinner wine. It looks good, smells better than it looks. And when it comes to the taste department, well, you never tasted anything like it. For a really good wine, remember first Petri, then Muscatel. Petri Muscatel. Well, doctor, I can hardly wait to hear what happened next. You and Sherlock Holmes went back to the hotel, I suppose. Yes. Mister Bartel, Holmes quickly adopted
[00:15:55] Unknown:
started off on our search. Outside the cafe of a thousand size, we met with the rude shock. Good Lord. It's the fellow we met in the cafe. Yes, Oliver. What do you mean? With a knife between his shoulders. He's dead, Holmes. Shouldn't we get in touch with the police? What can they do?
[00:16:12] Unknown:
Remember, there is no law on the Casbah. In any case, this man is beyond our help. Our job is to protect the living. Come on, old fellow. Let's go to the cafe of a thousand sides and find this girl, Aisha. The girl, Raffi says, sings like a night
[00:16:56] Unknown:
Uh-oh,
[00:17:05] Unknown:
sir. So that's the girl Ayesha. She she's very beautiful. Have to get our role of tourist and guide, old chef.
[00:17:11] Unknown:
Master would wish to meet this Ayesha? Very much indeed. I will see if it can be arranged, master. Wait there for me, Watson. I'll see what I can do.
[00:17:21] Unknown:
Right. Quite you are, Holmes. Be careful now.
[00:17:35] Unknown:
What do you want, greasy one? There is an Englishman at the table over there. He wishes to talk to Ayesha. Which one is he? The man who sits at the table in the corner is very rich, Ayesha, and get mouths you a great deal. He told me to give you this $500 notice. So
[00:17:54] Unknown:
very well. You may bring him to my rooms. The door is at top of stairway to the right. Good, Ayesha. I fetch it. I shall be waiting.
[00:18:14] Unknown:
I shall see you, master. Follow me, please. Very well. I hope you know that you're gonna handle this, Combe. Don't worry, Watson. In this case, I think honesty will be the best policy.
[00:18:24] Unknown:
Well, I'm not so sure. This place is a thieves kitchen ever. I saw one. You better be careful. First of all, we're right at the top of the stairs. This is it.
[00:18:33] Unknown:
Come in. Oh, come and sit over here, mister Englishman. Greasy one. You may leave us.
[00:18:41] Unknown:
Marmadgele, I, may as well tell you at once that I am not an Arab guide. My name is Sherlock Holmes. What you want with me? Why you trick your way in here? Don't be frightened, Marmadgele. I can explain our mission in a very few words. My friend and I have come in search of an Englishman by the name of Douglas Milton. We have good news for him. What make you think I might know of him? A gentleman by the name of Raffi suggested that you might. What is your good news for this Englishman? That he has been cleared of suspicion of murder and that he is the rightful earl of Montraddha.
[00:19:11] Unknown:
That means when he knows this, he will leave the Casbah and return to his country? Naturally, madame. I do not know this man. I have never heard of him. Here is your CHF500. Goodbye.
[00:19:25] Unknown:
Not so fast, Aisha Montesheu. I've been listening from behind these curtains.
[00:19:30] Unknown:
Gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Douglas Milton. Douglas Milton, we found you at last. It is pleasure. You are exceeded in my mission. How do you do, sir? This is very exciting. It isn't it. Yes, Eric. The occasion calls for a drink. What will it be, gentlemen? I think a glass of port would be very nice, sir. Yes. It would be the most appropriate for toasting the new Earl of Montreal. Splendid. Splendid. Ayesha, bring glasses and a bottle of port and some, creme de menthe for me. You are not going to England. I will never let you leave me. Oh, stop being so melodramatic,
[00:19:59] Unknown:
Ayesha. Please bring two bottles and some glasses.
[00:20:02] Unknown:
Very well. I am sorry.
[00:20:04] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, I can't tell you how I appreciate your trouble in coming all this way to find me, but, well, I must tell you at once, there's one problem that makes it difficult for me to leave this country. You see, I I deserted from the foreign legion. Newsy says we know that, my boy. In fact, that's how we first got onto your trail. I shouldn't let that fact worry you, mister Milton. I'm certain the British consul in Algiers can arrange to have any charges dropped against a peer of the realm. Oh, I I never thought of that. You're not the box folks. Hold on. You must excuse the glasses, gentlemen. Tumblers are hardly correct, I suppose. Well, they won't spoil the flavor, I'm sure.
Two glasses of quart and, a friend to mount for me.
[00:20:45] Unknown:
Only three glasses, Ayesha? Bring a glass of yourself. I do not wish to drink. And I insist that you do. Bring a glass, Ayesha. Why should I drink if you are leaving me? Mister Milton,
[00:20:56] Unknown:
do you know Oliver Leaming?
[00:20:58] Unknown:
Of course. He's my cousin.
[00:21:00] Unknown:
He came here half an hour ago and threatened me. Did you also know that he's lying dead in the street, murdered?
[00:21:07] Unknown:
Well, yes. Yes, I did. If we went in the cars, I wouldn't tell you this, but Ayesha stabbed. Him. She followed him when he left here. He killed him and then slipped back just in time to sing a song a few moments ago. Oh, you needn't look so shocked, doctor Watson. Life is cheap in the Casper, and Ayesha is a girl of violent passion. Come on. Let's let's drink. A toast to the new world of Montreban.
[00:21:30] Unknown:
Oh, excuse me, sir. You took the wrong glass. You were drinking my port.
[00:21:36] Unknown:
Oh, silly mistake. I can't bear port. Very un English of me, I'm afraid, but, well, after all these years, I don't feel particularly English. In fact, I'll probably find it very hard to adjust myself to the old life when I go back.
[00:21:48] Unknown:
Or perhaps I should say, if I go back. Since you feel that way about it, mister Milton, why go? You can claim the title and the revenues of the estate without leaving Algeria. You could stay here and live on the income.
[00:22:00] Unknown:
I didn't realize that would be possible.
[00:22:03] Unknown:
Are you sure I could do that? Oh, yes. I'm quite certain of it. But if you doubt my word, I suggest we all adjourned to the British consulate in Algiers.
[00:22:10] Unknown:
They can put you straight on another. That's a good idea. Let's go over there at once. Now I've been listening to you, my friend. You're planning to leave me. Once you go from the Kasbah, I shall never see you again. Put down that knife, Ayesha. I will not let you go. You belong to me. If you try to leave me now, I will kill you. Put down that knife, Ayesha. You've done enough damage for one night. Why are you? Put it down, you fool. Put it down. It's not my god. That's my god. That's my god.
[00:22:36] Unknown:
She's twisted the knife on herself as she fell. Holmes, help me turn her over.
[00:22:42] Unknown:
She's dead, mister Milton. Poor Ayesha.
[00:22:46] Unknown:
The bloody path that leads to the Montreux title, sir. I suggest to perceive that this poor girl's body is taken care of, then go to the British consulate without any further delay. Now that we are at the consulate, mister Milton, I suggest that you swear on oath that you are Douglas Milton, heir heir to the Montreux Estate. This gentleman is a commissioner of oath, and we can go in and see the counsel. Very well. Now, rise your right hand, please, and repeat after me.
[00:23:23] Unknown:
I hereby solemnly swear that I am Douglas Milton, the missing heir to the Montreux Estate. I hereby swear that I am Douglas Milton, missing heir to the Montrevo Estate. Thank you, sir. And now if you'll sign the statement here, these gentlemen can witness it. There you are. Thank you, sir. And now if, you gentlemen will sign. Yes, sir. No. Thank you, gentlemen. The document is now legal. Splendid.
[00:23:54] Unknown:
Let's go over and see the counsel. Not yet, my friend.
[00:23:57] Unknown:
Watson, this man is not Douglas Milton. What the devil are you talking about? There is no law on the Casbah, sir, so you cannot be punished for the two murders you committed there. But now that your avarice has tempted you here to Algiers, where you've been foolish enough to sign a false statement, I think we can at least settle you very nicely for desertion, false impersonation, forgery, and perjury. Holmes, what do you mean? The story should be of this Othello. Oliver Leaming did track down the deserter. Recognition was uncertain after so many years, but at least it gave this gentleman the idea of impersonating the real Douglas Milton, a friend of his. You have a lively imagination, mister Holmes. The real Douglas Milton
[00:24:37] Unknown:
died of dysentery two years ago in Sidder Rausch.
[00:24:41] Unknown:
As soon as the idea of impersonating Milton was born, Leeming had to die. Well, your theories are very interesting, but you haven't a shred of proof. I say that I'm Douglas Milton. How are you gonna prove otherwise? Very simply, my dear sir. Douglas Milton was a painter, a painter who excelled in the use of vivid colors. You, sir, suffer from the quite common malady of red green color blindness. Less than an hour ago, you must took a glass of port, which is red, for a glass of cring de ment, which is green. I knew at once that you were an impostor. You're cleverer than I thought you were, Holmes. Goodbye. Here. Come back. No. No, Watson. Don't go after him. But we can't let him escape, Holmes. Don't worry, old chap. He won't I sent a message to Colonel de Prisson.
If you go to the window, I think you'll find that the consulate is being watched. The legion has a long memory for desertion. I don't think he'll get very far. They got him, Holmes. Shot him as he was trying to run away. Now just death for him. He lived a life of violence and treachery, Watson. It's only fitting that he should die in the same manner.
[00:25:54] Unknown:
Manner. Doctor, that was a swell story, but you know something, I I wish you hadn't disillusioned me about the Casbah. I've disillusioned you? Why? What do you mean? Well, before I heard your story, whenever somebody mentioned the Casbah, I'd always visualize a very glamorous, romantic sort of place full of beautiful women. Every one of them are ringing for Hetty Lamar. No. Yeah. And I could just see myself, handsome, dashing, going up to one of those beautiful girls and whispering in my fine French accent. Darling, you're a sensational.
You're a lovely, gorgeous. Tell me, have you ever tried Petri wine? It's wonderful. Well, you must admit, doctor, that that is the truth. It is wonderful wine. It certainly ought to be. Incorruptible. After all, winemaking has been the business of the Petri family ever since way back in the eighteen hundreds. For generations, the Petri family has handed down from father to son, from father to son, the fine art of turning luscious, sun ripened grapes into fragrant delicious wine. And don't forget, because the making of Petri wine is a family affair, the letters p e t r I on a bottle of wine are the personal assurance of the Petri family that every drop of wine in that bottle is good wine.
So no matter what type wine you prefer for any occasion, remember you can't go wrong with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine.
[00:27:23] Unknown:
Well, doctor, now I suppose you're ready to tell us about next week's story? Yes. And as soon as I have, I want you to meet a friend of mine. A friend? Yes. But first, mister Bartel, next week, I'm going to tell you an adventure in which for once Holmes came off second best. An exciting story of high society and romance. I call it
[00:27:43] Unknown:
a scandal in Bohemia. Boy, that sounds swell. And now what about your friend? Well, he's waiting at the microphone in San Francisco.
[00:27:51] Unknown:
He's doctor Langley Porter, and he wants to tell us about something very important. Doctor Langley Porter.
[00:28:02] Unknown:
Thank you, doctor Watson. Radio listeners, tonight in Italy, there are thousands, many thousands, dying of cold and hunger. Babies, children, expectant mothers, old folks, dying for want of clothes, want of food. This organization, American Relief for Italy, appeals to you to search your homes for anything that can be made useful for starving, freezing men, women, children, clothing, layettes for babies, diapers, shoes, food, surgical supplies, but above all, clothes, clean clothes fit to wear. Take them to the nearest fire station. That your gifts will reach the Italians who need them, you may be sure.
Americans of this organization will distribute the packages in Italy through the Italian Red Cross, the Catholic Relief Organization, the League of Italian Women, the Confederation of Italian Labor, and the Italian government. In California, rationing has gone. Christmas comes. There, in Italy, death is on the prowl. Radio listeners, lives can be saved. It's up to you.
[00:29:24] Unknown:
Thank you, doctor Langley Porter. I know that our friends listening in will do all that they can to help the organization American Relief
[00:29:33] Unknown:
for Italy. Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Voucher and was suggested by an incident in his Arthur Conan Doyle story, The Crooked Man. Music is by Dean Fosler. Mister Ratbone 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. This is the mutual broadcasting system.
From taco night in Tulum to sushi in Tokyo, make every bite rewarding with gold from Amex. Wherever you dine, four times membership rewards points at restaurants worldwide are piling up. Learn more at AmericanExpress.com/explore-gold.
[00:00:14] Unknown:
Terms and points cap apply. 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 filmed 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.
[00:01:06] Unknown:
This episode from the life of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by short wave and through the worldwide facilities of the armed forces radio service. Petri Wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Proust and 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 exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And as for me, well, I'd like to tell you that a time like right now is the perfect time for a glass of Petri California port. After you've had a good dinner, boy Petri port is a real topper.
That rich deep red Petri port is really an extraordinary wine. Even its color is different. And as for its flavor, well it'll take a better man than me to describe that. Petri port is a hearty wine, sure. And every Petriport is a hearty wine, sure. And every other quality that you look for in a good port, you'll find in Petriport and then some. Try Petriport by itself or serve it with fruit, with nuts or with cake. But share it with your friends, will you? Because you can serve it proudly. After all, it is a Petri wine, and that name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wines. And now let's visit our old friend and host, Doctor. Watson. Good evening, Mr. Bartell. Good evening, doctor. Settle yourself down and get your pipe going. Thanks.
Doctor, last week you told us that tonight's story took place in the Casbah at Algiers. Yes. The Casbah.
[00:02:55] Unknown:
I remember it as the place of countless streets winding up and down, past colorful cafes where a hundred tongues were spoken, and often a street would end in shadowy darkness, which a man would be foolhardy to enter alone. Yes, mister Bartell, that was the Casper that Sherlock Holmes and I knew in that winter of ninety nine. Well, how did you happen to be out there, doctor? Do you mind if I tell you the story from the start, mister Bartell? It really began on a wintery night in Baker Street, the conclusion of the strange murder in Montrava Castle.
A charming young girl sat on the sofa of our lodgings in Baker Street and talked to her.
[00:03:35] Unknown:
But, mister Holmes, you can't say you'll have nothing more to do with the laundress. Madame Redfield,
[00:03:39] Unknown:
I found the true murderer of the Dowager Cultures and he committed suicide. Surely, the case has ended. Yes, mister Holmes. You found the real murderer.
[00:03:46] Unknown:
But now I want you to find the unfortunate young man who fled England Five Years ago when he was suspected of a crime. This is a new development, miss Stedfield. Please tell us about it. It's Douglas Milton that I'm talking about. Oh, yes. Yes. Yes. He was the heir to the title, wasn't he? Yes, mister Holmes. He was a sensitive artistic boy, and and when he knew that he was under suspicion, he ran away. Mhmm. Of course, everyone regarded his flight as an as an admission of guilt. That is until you found the real culprit, mister Holmes. I imagine, miss Truffill, that your interest in the missing boy is not entirely, shall we say,
[00:04:16] Unknown:
altruistic?
[00:04:17] Unknown:
I'm in love with him, doctor Watson. Oh. We're engaged to be married when he ran away.
[00:04:22] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, you've got to find him. He must know that his name has been cleared and that he's inherited the title. Miss Redfield, have you any direct news, any letter from your fiancee since he left five years ago? None. Any clues as to his hiding place? Only this.
[00:04:36] Unknown:
It's a painting I received anonymously a year after he had left. Oh. It was sent from a forwarding address in London. Here it is, mister Holmes. Thank you. It's a small oil painting.
[00:04:46] Unknown:
Very good one too, sir.
[00:04:48] Unknown:
Yes. The splendid sense of composition and his use of color is unusually brilliant. You recognize this painting as the work of your fiancee, miss Trefield? I'm certain of it. Yes. Wonderful use of color. Serve the delicate shadings of that sunset and the brilliant green of the oasis. Is seen as extraordinarily reminiscent of the desert in North Africa. Yes. Yes. That's what made me say I was certain he'd gone abroad, mister Holmes. Why should he go to North Africa? A good place, Watson, for an Englishman who imagines himself to be escaping justice. Remember the foreign legion is stationed there. You think he might have joined the legion, mister Holmes? Right. Would seem logical. No question to ask to those who join it, and its colorful obscurity might easily appeal to a young fellow in trouble. Hello? What is it, hon? Quite a few grains of sand in between the canvas and the frame here. Mister Field, do you mind if I pry the canvas loose? Do anything you like, mister Holmes, if it gives you any clue to Douglas's whereabouts. Give me your penknife for you, Watson.
Yeah. Thanks, old chap. Wait a minute. Here we are. Could you see anything? Uh-huh. Look. The word sheriff, and El Afroon
[00:05:55] Unknown:
are stamped here.
[00:05:58] Unknown:
Sheriff is probably the framer's name, and El Afroon is a town some 50 miles from Algiers. That settles it. Miss Stretfield, I accept your case. Watson and I will go to Africa and try to find your fiancee, Douglas Milton.
[00:06:20] Unknown:
Missus Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson, I have heard of you so often, but I never thought I should see you here at the headquarters of the foreign legion. What can I do for you gentlemen? Well, Colonel Brisson,
[00:06:31] Unknown:
I'm, kind of trace an Englishman who has been missing during the past four years. I have reason to believe that he might have joined the legion. Yeah. You should look in my records.
[00:06:42] Unknown:
Let me see. Four years ago would be 1895. If Sherlock Holmes is tracking him, then I suppose he was in trouble in his own country. If he was in trouble, he might easily have come to us. We ask no questions. Ninety seven nights ninety five. In that year, three young Englishmen joined us. One of them died of dysentery two years ago in Sidarajee.
[00:07:04] Unknown:
One of them deserted eighteen months ago, and we have been unable to trace him. The Eternis Majidun who brought you into my office just now. And he is, I would say, about, three inches shorter than Douglas Milston, and men do not, shrink in the foreign nature day, colonel. They do not, mrs. Holmes. And the fellow who deserted must be our man. Unless it's the one who died of dysentery. Colonel de Brisson,
[00:07:25] Unknown:
how would you advise us to set about trying to find a deserter? Missy Holmes, there's only one place in Algeria where a man can hide from the foreign legion and remain in. Oh, what's that place? The Casbah in Algiers.
[00:07:37] Unknown:
Then that's our destination, Watson.
[00:07:39] Unknown:
Be very careful, please gentlemen. The Casbah is a place where the law is exiled. The police have no jurisdiction there. The only rule is that of strength, violence, and. Please be very cautious, I assure you. And
[00:07:53] Unknown:
thank you for your help.
[00:08:13] Unknown:
Well, I must say that I think Colonel de Brisson rather exaggerated the dangers of the Casper. I suppose you're gonna tell me this cafe is the headquarters for a dope smuggling ring off, like slaving or something. Its ramifications are even more extensive
[00:08:28] Unknown:
than those you've mentioned. You're joking, Holmes. I assure you are not, old fellow. My old friend Joamel is chief of police in Algiers. When I told him our mission, he advised me to come here. A CHF500 note, and the proprietor can obtain any and all information regarding the underworld. For as little as CHF200, he can arrange a murder. So that gives you some idea of the relative values in the Casbah. Good lord. Then you've already spoken to the proprietor? Oh, yes. Yes. A charming scoundrel, a fellow by the name of Rafiki. I gave him CHF500 and asked him to set his underworld grapevine in motion to see whether an Englishman living in hiding here in the Casbah
[00:09:03] Unknown:
could be found. And I thought we'd come here for quite a meal.
[00:09:07] Unknown:
Here comes Rocky now. But Toby has news for us. Here we are, Rocky. Come sit down, won't you?
[00:09:14] Unknown:
Rocky works fast. Does he not, mister Horns?
[00:09:18] Unknown:
Your friend is My friend knows
[00:09:23] Unknown:
first. The tongue of Raffi is parched. Would you have me die off first before I give you my news? Where would Cassie?
[00:09:31] Unknown:
You have news for me then?
[00:09:33] Unknown:
You have news for me then? But yes. Good. What is it? First, you will pay me more money. No?
[00:09:39] Unknown:
But I gave you CHF500.
[00:09:41] Unknown:
You said that you do the job for that. Can I help it if some tongues are more costly to make wag than others? It took the 500 to get the wag. Am I to have nothing for my own trouble? Ah, good. Good. The gentleman will pay for it. There you are. Missy, Missy. I will drink to your health, gentlemen, both of you.
[00:10:07] Unknown:
You will pay me more money? No. But my friend's already given you 500. You should stick to your bargain, my good fella.
[00:10:14] Unknown:
My information is a bargain at CHF750. It would be a bargain at a thousand, but Rafie will let you have it for 750 because he likes you. Please. You will give it to me. No? And if I refuse? Then you get no information. And, perhaps I spread news in the Casbah that makes it uncomfortable for you gentlemen to be there. Well, it's Scott. This is blackmail. I get the money. No?
[00:10:43] Unknown:
You're a scoundrel, Ravi. Of course, I am a scoundrel. Okay. Here's your money. And information?
[00:10:50] Unknown:
There is an Englishman hiding here in the Casbah. I do not know his name, but he's tall and fair haired. I cannot tell you where he lives. But if you go to the cafe of a thousand size, you will find a girl who sings there. A girl who sings like a nightingale. Her name is Aisha, and she can lead you to your Englishman. Girl named Daisha.
[00:11:16] Unknown:
The cafe of a thousand size. That is right.
[00:11:19] Unknown:
I would suggest that you go there in disguise. Two well dressed Englishmen might find themselves in trouble. For a small fee, say, CHF200,
[00:11:30] Unknown:
I will escort you the right set. Thank you. Thank you. Yes. I I think we can manage by ourselves, Rafee. Oh,
[00:11:36] Unknown:
if your business is concluded quickly and time weighs heavy on your hands, Rafiki can take you to some places of rare interest. Dancing girls that wither one's eyeballs with our beauty. For CHF500,
[00:11:51] Unknown:
gentlemen thank you, Rafiki. Thank you. I have a feeling that time will not weigh heavily on our hands. Good night.
[00:11:57] Unknown:
You work too hard, gentlemen. You should learn how to play.
[00:12:02] Unknown:
Good night.
[00:12:04] Unknown:
On my soul, I think that fellow is the biggest blackguard I ever met. I quite agree, old Jeffrey. He's amusing. By the way, Holmes, don't you think that when this case is finished, we might have a time on our hands? Oh,
[00:12:17] Unknown:
Watson, you're incorrigible. But I think
[00:12:21] Unknown:
Watson. What is it?
[00:12:22] Unknown:
That the man sitting over in the corner by Oh, Joe. Yes.
[00:12:26] Unknown:
His his face seems familiar.
[00:12:28] Unknown:
Have you seen him before, Summer? Of course, we have. His name is Oliver Leaming. We met him at the inquest on the Montreal case. So we did. Now what else do you suppose he's doing here in the Casper? Not on the holiday, I'm sure. Mister Oliver Leaming, if you recall, is a a cousin of Douglas Milton's, the man's the man we're searching for. If Milton were ever declared legally dead, mister Leaming over there would, inherit the title. Looks to me as if we're not the only people in the Casper who are searching for the missing heir. That's true, fellow. Come on. Let's go and talk to the gentleman. Starlover Leaming. I'm very happy to meet you here. Here. Well, well. Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson, won't you sit down? Thank you. World's a small place at the store. Has somebody said that before?
[00:13:17] Unknown:
I wondered if you'd spot me over here in the corner. Oh, you saw us, sir. Of course. You seem to be in such deep conversation with that scoundrel, Ralphie. I didn't like to disturb you. Very considerate of you, I'm sure. Why are you here, mister Leaming? Oh, I'm making a business trip. This is my day off. As I recall it, you're in the publishing business. Correct.
[00:13:34] Unknown:
What a memory you have. It seems peculiar that you should, be on a business trip here. Are you planning on opening a publishing house in Algiers or are you, searching the Casbah for new authors? Why not? I'm a great believer in encouraging new talent. Mister Leaming, why don't you admit that you are here for the express purpose of trying to find your cousin, Douglas Milton? Mister Holmes, you've discovered my secret. The great Sherlock Holmes and his watchdog
[00:13:58] Unknown:
have their eagle eyes on me. They know that I succeed to the title if Douglas Milton dies. Yes, mister Leaming, we know that fact. And you were fathomed by plan to find Douglas before me and kill him so that I may inherit the title. How lucky I am to meet you in Mothazbah where you cannot arrest me. Well, it's a race against time, gentlemen. But I have a head start as you will soon find out. Goodbye.
[00:14:25] Unknown:
And the best of luck to you.
[00:14:27] Unknown:
You extraordinary fella. He's joking, of course. I believe not, Watson. I think he labors under the whimsical belief that the best method of discounting the truth is to state it as boldly so that it will not be believed. Great. Captain, we must work fast. Yes, old chap. We must. I'm sure that we're entrance in a race against death. Let's get back to the hotel and into our disguises as quickly as possible. After that, we shall visit a young lady named Ayesha on the cafe of a thousand size. And I'm certain, Watson, that it will be the first time two men have ever entered the for the express purpose of preventing a murder.
[00:15:09] Unknown:
We'll hear the rest of Doctor. Watson's story in just about a second, which gives me time to remind you that if you like the flavor of big plump juicy Muscat grapes, you'll love the flavor of Petri California Muscatell. What a wine. Petri Muscatel is the perfect after dinner wine. It looks good, smells better than it looks. And when it comes to the taste department, well, you never tasted anything like it. For a really good wine, remember first Petri, then Muscatel. Petri Muscatel. Well, doctor, I can hardly wait to hear what happened next. You and Sherlock Holmes went back to the hotel, I suppose. Yes. Mister Bartel, Holmes quickly adopted
[00:15:55] Unknown:
started off on our search. Outside the cafe of a thousand size, we met with the rude shock. Good Lord. It's the fellow we met in the cafe. Yes, Oliver. What do you mean? With a knife between his shoulders. He's dead, Holmes. Shouldn't we get in touch with the police? What can they do?
[00:16:12] Unknown:
Remember, there is no law on the Casbah. In any case, this man is beyond our help. Our job is to protect the living. Come on, old fellow. Let's go to the cafe of a thousand sides and find this girl, Aisha. The girl, Raffi says, sings like a night
[00:16:56] Unknown:
Uh-oh,
[00:17:05] Unknown:
sir. So that's the girl Ayesha. She she's very beautiful. Have to get our role of tourist and guide, old chef.
[00:17:11] Unknown:
Master would wish to meet this Ayesha? Very much indeed. I will see if it can be arranged, master. Wait there for me, Watson. I'll see what I can do.
[00:17:21] Unknown:
Right. Quite you are, Holmes. Be careful now.
[00:17:35] Unknown:
What do you want, greasy one? There is an Englishman at the table over there. He wishes to talk to Ayesha. Which one is he? The man who sits at the table in the corner is very rich, Ayesha, and get mouths you a great deal. He told me to give you this $500 notice. So
[00:17:54] Unknown:
very well. You may bring him to my rooms. The door is at top of stairway to the right. Good, Ayesha. I fetch it. I shall be waiting.
[00:18:14] Unknown:
I shall see you, master. Follow me, please. Very well. I hope you know that you're gonna handle this, Combe. Don't worry, Watson. In this case, I think honesty will be the best policy.
[00:18:24] Unknown:
Well, I'm not so sure. This place is a thieves kitchen ever. I saw one. You better be careful. First of all, we're right at the top of the stairs. This is it.
[00:18:33] Unknown:
Come in. Oh, come and sit over here, mister Englishman. Greasy one. You may leave us.
[00:18:41] Unknown:
Marmadgele, I, may as well tell you at once that I am not an Arab guide. My name is Sherlock Holmes. What you want with me? Why you trick your way in here? Don't be frightened, Marmadgele. I can explain our mission in a very few words. My friend and I have come in search of an Englishman by the name of Douglas Milton. We have good news for him. What make you think I might know of him? A gentleman by the name of Raffi suggested that you might. What is your good news for this Englishman? That he has been cleared of suspicion of murder and that he is the rightful earl of Montraddha.
[00:19:11] Unknown:
That means when he knows this, he will leave the Casbah and return to his country? Naturally, madame. I do not know this man. I have never heard of him. Here is your CHF500. Goodbye.
[00:19:25] Unknown:
Not so fast, Aisha Montesheu. I've been listening from behind these curtains.
[00:19:30] Unknown:
Gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Douglas Milton. Douglas Milton, we found you at last. It is pleasure. You are exceeded in my mission. How do you do, sir? This is very exciting. It isn't it. Yes, Eric. The occasion calls for a drink. What will it be, gentlemen? I think a glass of port would be very nice, sir. Yes. It would be the most appropriate for toasting the new Earl of Montreal. Splendid. Splendid. Ayesha, bring glasses and a bottle of port and some, creme de menthe for me. You are not going to England. I will never let you leave me. Oh, stop being so melodramatic,
[00:19:59] Unknown:
Ayesha. Please bring two bottles and some glasses.
[00:20:02] Unknown:
Very well. I am sorry.
[00:20:04] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, I can't tell you how I appreciate your trouble in coming all this way to find me, but, well, I must tell you at once, there's one problem that makes it difficult for me to leave this country. You see, I I deserted from the foreign legion. Newsy says we know that, my boy. In fact, that's how we first got onto your trail. I shouldn't let that fact worry you, mister Milton. I'm certain the British consul in Algiers can arrange to have any charges dropped against a peer of the realm. Oh, I I never thought of that. You're not the box folks. Hold on. You must excuse the glasses, gentlemen. Tumblers are hardly correct, I suppose. Well, they won't spoil the flavor, I'm sure.
Two glasses of quart and, a friend to mount for me.
[00:20:45] Unknown:
Only three glasses, Ayesha? Bring a glass of yourself. I do not wish to drink. And I insist that you do. Bring a glass, Ayesha. Why should I drink if you are leaving me? Mister Milton,
[00:20:56] Unknown:
do you know Oliver Leaming?
[00:20:58] Unknown:
Of course. He's my cousin.
[00:21:00] Unknown:
He came here half an hour ago and threatened me. Did you also know that he's lying dead in the street, murdered?
[00:21:07] Unknown:
Well, yes. Yes, I did. If we went in the cars, I wouldn't tell you this, but Ayesha stabbed. Him. She followed him when he left here. He killed him and then slipped back just in time to sing a song a few moments ago. Oh, you needn't look so shocked, doctor Watson. Life is cheap in the Casper, and Ayesha is a girl of violent passion. Come on. Let's let's drink. A toast to the new world of Montreban.
[00:21:30] Unknown:
Oh, excuse me, sir. You took the wrong glass. You were drinking my port.
[00:21:36] Unknown:
Oh, silly mistake. I can't bear port. Very un English of me, I'm afraid, but, well, after all these years, I don't feel particularly English. In fact, I'll probably find it very hard to adjust myself to the old life when I go back.
[00:21:48] Unknown:
Or perhaps I should say, if I go back. Since you feel that way about it, mister Milton, why go? You can claim the title and the revenues of the estate without leaving Algeria. You could stay here and live on the income.
[00:22:00] Unknown:
I didn't realize that would be possible.
[00:22:03] Unknown:
Are you sure I could do that? Oh, yes. I'm quite certain of it. But if you doubt my word, I suggest we all adjourned to the British consulate in Algiers.
[00:22:10] Unknown:
They can put you straight on another. That's a good idea. Let's go over there at once. Now I've been listening to you, my friend. You're planning to leave me. Once you go from the Kasbah, I shall never see you again. Put down that knife, Ayesha. I will not let you go. You belong to me. If you try to leave me now, I will kill you. Put down that knife, Ayesha. You've done enough damage for one night. Why are you? Put it down, you fool. Put it down. It's not my god. That's my god. That's my god.
[00:22:36] Unknown:
She's twisted the knife on herself as she fell. Holmes, help me turn her over.
[00:22:42] Unknown:
She's dead, mister Milton. Poor Ayesha.
[00:22:46] Unknown:
The bloody path that leads to the Montreux title, sir. I suggest to perceive that this poor girl's body is taken care of, then go to the British consulate without any further delay. Now that we are at the consulate, mister Milton, I suggest that you swear on oath that you are Douglas Milton, heir heir to the Montreux Estate. This gentleman is a commissioner of oath, and we can go in and see the counsel. Very well. Now, rise your right hand, please, and repeat after me.
[00:23:23] Unknown:
I hereby solemnly swear that I am Douglas Milton, the missing heir to the Montreux Estate. I hereby swear that I am Douglas Milton, missing heir to the Montrevo Estate. Thank you, sir. And now if you'll sign the statement here, these gentlemen can witness it. There you are. Thank you, sir. And now if, you gentlemen will sign. Yes, sir. No. Thank you, gentlemen. The document is now legal. Splendid.
[00:23:54] Unknown:
Let's go over and see the counsel. Not yet, my friend.
[00:23:57] Unknown:
Watson, this man is not Douglas Milton. What the devil are you talking about? There is no law on the Casbah, sir, so you cannot be punished for the two murders you committed there. But now that your avarice has tempted you here to Algiers, where you've been foolish enough to sign a false statement, I think we can at least settle you very nicely for desertion, false impersonation, forgery, and perjury. Holmes, what do you mean? The story should be of this Othello. Oliver Leaming did track down the deserter. Recognition was uncertain after so many years, but at least it gave this gentleman the idea of impersonating the real Douglas Milton, a friend of his. You have a lively imagination, mister Holmes. The real Douglas Milton
[00:24:37] Unknown:
died of dysentery two years ago in Sidder Rausch.
[00:24:41] Unknown:
As soon as the idea of impersonating Milton was born, Leeming had to die. Well, your theories are very interesting, but you haven't a shred of proof. I say that I'm Douglas Milton. How are you gonna prove otherwise? Very simply, my dear sir. Douglas Milton was a painter, a painter who excelled in the use of vivid colors. You, sir, suffer from the quite common malady of red green color blindness. Less than an hour ago, you must took a glass of port, which is red, for a glass of cring de ment, which is green. I knew at once that you were an impostor. You're cleverer than I thought you were, Holmes. Goodbye. Here. Come back. No. No, Watson. Don't go after him. But we can't let him escape, Holmes. Don't worry, old chap. He won't I sent a message to Colonel de Prisson.
If you go to the window, I think you'll find that the consulate is being watched. The legion has a long memory for desertion. I don't think he'll get very far. They got him, Holmes. Shot him as he was trying to run away. Now just death for him. He lived a life of violence and treachery, Watson. It's only fitting that he should die in the same manner.
[00:25:54] Unknown:
Manner. Doctor, that was a swell story, but you know something, I I wish you hadn't disillusioned me about the Casbah. I've disillusioned you? Why? What do you mean? Well, before I heard your story, whenever somebody mentioned the Casbah, I'd always visualize a very glamorous, romantic sort of place full of beautiful women. Every one of them are ringing for Hetty Lamar. No. Yeah. And I could just see myself, handsome, dashing, going up to one of those beautiful girls and whispering in my fine French accent. Darling, you're a sensational.
You're a lovely, gorgeous. Tell me, have you ever tried Petri wine? It's wonderful. Well, you must admit, doctor, that that is the truth. It is wonderful wine. It certainly ought to be. Incorruptible. After all, winemaking has been the business of the Petri family ever since way back in the eighteen hundreds. For generations, the Petri family has handed down from father to son, from father to son, the fine art of turning luscious, sun ripened grapes into fragrant delicious wine. And don't forget, because the making of Petri wine is a family affair, the letters p e t r I on a bottle of wine are the personal assurance of the Petri family that every drop of wine in that bottle is good wine.
So no matter what type wine you prefer for any occasion, remember you can't go wrong with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine.
[00:27:23] Unknown:
Well, doctor, now I suppose you're ready to tell us about next week's story? Yes. And as soon as I have, I want you to meet a friend of mine. A friend? Yes. But first, mister Bartel, next week, I'm going to tell you an adventure in which for once Holmes came off second best. An exciting story of high society and romance. I call it
[00:27:43] Unknown:
a scandal in Bohemia. Boy, that sounds swell. And now what about your friend? Well, he's waiting at the microphone in San Francisco.
[00:27:51] Unknown:
He's doctor Langley Porter, and he wants to tell us about something very important. Doctor Langley Porter.
[00:28:02] Unknown:
Thank you, doctor Watson. Radio listeners, tonight in Italy, there are thousands, many thousands, dying of cold and hunger. Babies, children, expectant mothers, old folks, dying for want of clothes, want of food. This organization, American Relief for Italy, appeals to you to search your homes for anything that can be made useful for starving, freezing men, women, children, clothing, layettes for babies, diapers, shoes, food, surgical supplies, but above all, clothes, clean clothes fit to wear. Take them to the nearest fire station. That your gifts will reach the Italians who need them, you may be sure.
Americans of this organization will distribute the packages in Italy through the Italian Red Cross, the Catholic Relief Organization, the League of Italian Women, the Confederation of Italian Labor, and the Italian government. In California, rationing has gone. Christmas comes. There, in Italy, death is on the prowl. Radio listeners, lives can be saved. It's up to you.
[00:29:24] Unknown:
Thank you, doctor Langley Porter. I know that our friends listening in will do all that they can to help the organization American Relief
[00:29:33] Unknown:
for Italy. Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Voucher and was suggested by an incident in his Arthur Conan Doyle story, The Crooked Man. Music is by Dean Fosler. Mister Ratbone 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. This is the mutual broadcasting system.
