In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of classic radio dramas, starting with a discussion about "The Avengers" and its unique journey to South African audiences, who were initially deprived of the series due to the lack of national television until 1976. We then transition to an intriguing Sherlock Holmes adventure, where an April Fool's Day prank takes a serious turn. Holmes is initially fooled by a cleverly orchestrated hoax involving the theft of the Elfinstone Emerald, only to uncover a deeper mystery when the gem is truly stolen.
As the story unfolds, Holmes demonstrates his remarkable deductive skills, navigating through a web of deception and uncovering the truth behind the theft. The episode highlights Holmes' ability to solve complex cases with minimal evidence, showcasing his unparalleled expertise in deduction. The narrative is enriched with colorful characters and unexpected twists, culminating in a surprising revelation about the true mastermind behind the crime.
(00:04) The Avengers in South Africa
(00:56) Introduction to Sherlock Holmes
(02:22) April Fool's Day Prank
(11:47) The Real Theft Unfolds
(17:56) The Emerald's Hidden Location
(23:02) The True Culprit Revealed
Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio
Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/
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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.
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Petrie Wine brings you Basil Rathbone and and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures
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of Sherlock Holmes.
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The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invites you to listen to doctor Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend that master detective Sherlock Holmes. And right now I'd like to just briefly mention an idea you ought to try tomorrow night. Just before you sit down to dinner. Just pour yourself a glass of that good Petri California sherry. Petri sherry is the perfect before dinner wine. Its cheerful glowing amber color looks festive and it sort of lends an air of importance to the occasion. And as for the wine itself, just taste it. That Petri Sherry is not just ordinary wine. No, sir. One sip and you know that wonderful sun ripened grapes went into its making.
Yes. And you know that Petri Sherry was carefully watched over every step of the way. Incidentally, Petri makes two kinds of sherry. Regular sherry, Incidentally, Petri makes two kinds of sherry. Regular sherry and Petri pale dry. If you're not sure just which kind you and your friends will like best, try them both. Don't buy one, buy two. But when it comes to sherry or any other wine for that matter, be sure you always buy petrol. And now I'm certain our good friend doctor Watson's waiting for us. Let's go in and join. Oh,
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there you are, mister Burchell.
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Punctual to the minute as always. Well, this is one doctor's appointment I'm eager to keep.
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Nice to say so my boy. Draw up your usual chair and make yourself comfortable. Thanks. Well, doctor, today is April. Did, anyone try and play any jokes on you? Yes. It did, mister Barto. But I'm happy to say that nobody caught me. Not as in the story that I'm going to tell you tonight, but in April Fools' Day prank, Cirtanis caught a bull's eye.
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I see you have the dispatch box out again, doctor. Been refreshing your memory. Yes. I have,
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When I tell you the adventure took place at eighteen hundred and eighty one, I think you'll agree that after such a lack of time, a man can hardly rely on memory alone.
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1881.
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Doctor, tonight's adventure must have been one of the really early ones. Yes. It was indeed. In fact, to be exact, it took place only a little while after Sherlock Holmes and I had first met and had taken up lodging for Giller. Who was the great detective in those early days? Far, mister to me, me, mister Bartel. To give you an example, my boy, I'd shared our Baker Street lodgings with him for over a month before I was even certain of his profession. The knowledge of which I learned through my awe and astonishment when our first adventure together took place. Oh, that was the one you called the a study in scarlet, wasn't it doctor? That's right, mister Bart. Remember you got a study in scarlet. But even after that adventure I found myself wondering at times what I had myself in for, sharing lodgings with a strange companion.
Was in one of those moods of doubt and confusion that my story begins. Late one March evening I found myself in the neighborhood of Piccadilly Circus. It was cold and a steady drizzle of rain had dampened my spirits. I talked to a glass of wine and the sound of music put me in a better mood and and so, mister Bartell, I entered the Criterion restaurant. As I sat with a glass of rare vintage port at my elbow, the orchestra playing a dreamy, Strauss waltz in the background, I couldn't help thinking of the last time that I'd been there. It was the night I met a young medical student by the name of Stamford.
He was the man who first introduced me to Sherlock Holmes. Suddenly I put a cap on my shoulder, I turned and to my amazement once again young Stanford was standing before Watson. Or should I say doctor Watson? How are you my dear chap? Hello, Stanford. Come sit down. Thanks. I'm glad to see that you're not holding any grudge against me. Why on earth should I do that? For introducing you to Sherlock Holmes. I've reproached myself ever since. I think he's as mad as a hatter. Not at all. He may be eccentric. In fact, I'll admit that he is eccentric, but he's an extraordinary interesting fellow. He'll make a great name for himself as a private detective one of these days. You'll see if I'm not right, Stanford. I saw something about him in the paper the other day. Yes. But that was the Lowest and Gardens affair, wasn't it? Yes. Yes. It was. He's a brilliant man, Stanford. Quite brilliant. Mhmm. Though I must have pity for the time. He worked like a fiend as a rule, but occasionally a reaction sets in for days at a time. He'll lie on our sofa hardly after a word or moving a muscle from morning to night.
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Impressive, I must say. I think he takes himself too seriously. Yes. That's alright. How would you like to join in a little plot? Against Holmes? Yes. Yes. Just a rag, you know. We thought it'd be rather fun. We? Murphy and I, we were just talking about it. I'll call him over. Murphy? Oh, is it Murphy? I I've seen him before, something I haven't I? I'm sure you must have done. He's been around at the hospital, and any time you go in the British Museum, you'll find him there. Nice fellow, but dull. Definitely dull.
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Yes, Stanford. Oh, this is a friend of mine, John Watson. This is James Murphy. How do I think I've seen you at the hospital? And I know I've seen you, doctor Watson. Oh, sit down and come and join us, matur. Thank you very much. I was just telling Watson about our little plot. Oh, you you you mean about, Sherlock Holmes? Now now look here. I'd like you fellows to realize that Holmes is a very good friend of mine. Oh, don't worry, Watson. This is all in good fun. Don't you realize what the date is tomorrow? April 1, isn't it? Yes. April April fool's day. Oh, now I see. You're going to play an April fool's day joke on on Holmes. Yes. That's our plan. Well, it's hardly our plan, Stanford. It's really lady Anne Partington's idea. You see, Holmes was very rude to her when she visited the hospital recently, and she wants to, well, you know, take him down a peg or two. Sounds enough but I must say he's inclined to be rather arrogant at times. Well what's what's the plan? Well we'll need your help, Watson. You must be careful not to give the joke away. I'll bet you a fiver that Holmes falls for the whole story hook line and sinker. Now here's exactly what we're planning to do. Lady Anne is going to call on Holmes at Baker Street in the morning.
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Lady Anne, I'm very sad that you called to see me in my professional capacity. Surely my dear man, you didn't think this was a social call. You are much too rude to me at the hospital the other day for that. That was the point I was trying to make. Please sit down, would you? Either take this chair once you're ready, Alice. It's by far the most comfortable chair in the room. Oh, thank you doctor Watson. And now what can I do to help you? You've heard of the elfin stone emeralds? Oh, yes. Yes, indeed. A magnificent stone of
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very considerable value. An heirloom in your family, I believe. Yes, mister Holmes. I keep it in a wall safe in my bedroom. This morning when I had occasion to go to the safe,
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I discovered that the emerald had been stolen. Miss Tolan, Scott, shocking business. Of course, you want mister Holmes to recover it for you. A remarkable deduction, my dear doctor.
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Lady Anne, when you opened the safe, did you observe any signs of it having been tampered with? Okay. I think it's rather stupid to sit and answer questions here in Baker Street.
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Why don't you come over to my house in Cavendish Square and examine the Safeway yourself?
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You are a detective, aren't you? Lady Anne, just now you accused me of rudeness. I assure you that mine at least was unintentional. Oh, come come come, Holmes. Don't be so touchy. I can promise you a substantial fee, mister Holmes. I'm a struggling practitioner and a new profession. My poverty, but not my will, consent. I pay thy poverty
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and not thy will. You see, I can quote my Shakespeare too, mister Holmes. My carriage is waiting, gentlemen. Let's drive over to Cavendish Square at once, shall we?
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This is the wall safe, mister Holmes. Not too difficult. A safe crack for an expert. You placed the emerald in it last night, you say? Yes. When I went to bed. And this morning, it had gone. Well, surely, Holmes, this is a good occasion to use that magnifying glass that you're always fitting about. Excellent occasion my dear doctor. That's why I brought it with me. Uh-huh. That's very interesting. What is it? This safe was opened by an expert. There isn't a sign of it's having been forced. Hello. What have you discovered? There's a peculiar tarnish on the steel knob.
It was obviously handled by someone whose fingers are habitually stained with chemicals. Amazing harm. Let me mention my dear doctor. Where does that door doily do? My boudoir. I should like to examine it if I may. Oh, but of course. Thank you, Lady Anne.
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Doctor Watson,
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this is the most beautiful April fools day fraud I've ever played. Murphy was right. He has fallen for it. Hook, line, and sinker. Just to say, I'm beginning to feel guilty.
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I can't help feeling a a bit disloyal. Oh, nonsense. It's all in fun. Ask Stanford and mister Murphy listening. Yes. They're next door in my drawing room. I'm sure their ears are positively glued to the keyhole. Well, I do hope Holmes won't be angry with me. Here he comes. Nothing of any interest in there.
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The windows haven't been tampered with. We may presume therefore that the thief did not enter by an upstairs window. Lady Anne. Yes mister Holmes. This room has not been touched since you discovered your loss. Oh no. I told the servants to leave it exactly as it was while I came to fetch you. Splendid, splendid. Deep file can't be, could be better.
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The thief was a tall man with a long stride. Come come come Holmes, I know your methods but there aren't any footprints on this carpet that that you can identify
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even with your magnifying glass. I said doctor, I've studied many kinds and I've never seen one yet that was committed by a flying creature. As long as a criminal remains on his two legs, there must be some some trifling displacement can be detected by a keen observer. I assure you that the marks on this carpet indicate that the thief, was a tall man with a long stride. This is a tobacco ash. Hot tobacco. Jag tobacco that sells at pauper and surmounts. Now really mr Holmes, how can you possibly identify an individual tobacco? Oh it's a hobby of mine. In fact I've even written a monograph on the subject. Now one more look at the space itself.
Hello. What's this product done here? What? It rosette. I think the trace of rosette. Lady Anne, I suggest you get in touch with Scott and Yarbrough at once. You mean that you've solved it home? I mean my dear doctor, that I can give you a reasonably complete picture of the thief, and that picture is so individual that I'd be surprised if it would fit more than one man in London. This is pure magic, mister Holmes. Please describe him to me. Well, he's a tall man. The width of his stride indicates that and he's thin. Well, what enables you to tell that, Holmes? His footprints have made a remarkably light indentation on the lap of the carpet. Our thief dabbles extensively in chemicals as indicated by the tarnishing of the knob on the safe and the traces of rosin would suggest that he plays the violin also.
He smokes shag tobacco, has a great practical knowledge of the ways of combination locks, and he's obviously in close contact with the criminal pluses. How do you know that, mister Holmes? Well, you wouldn't steal a famous stone unless you knew how to dispose of it through some trustworthy fetish. It's a very comprehensive picture, Holmes. I almost feel as if I knew the chap. Thank you, doctor. I'm sure there's only one man in London, and it shouldn't be hard to praise him.
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I agree entirely, mister Holmes. Doctor Watson, I think the joke has gone far enough. Joke? What do you mean?
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You're quite right, Holmes, in in saying there's only one such man in London. You've just given a perfect description of yourself.
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Oh, April Fool. Doctor Stanford, mister Murphy, you can come in now. April fool. April
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fool.
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Come along here. Enter the drawing room, everyone. Blow a drink of glass of wine to mister Holmes who has so graciously forgiven us for the little trick we played on him. And also to doctor Stanford who thought of the whole idea. No hard feelings, Holmes. Oh, no, doctor.
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It was a rather embarrassing experience. Murphy told me about the plan. I I just couldn't resist joining him. Here you are, Holmes. Here's a drink. Thank you, Stanford. You know Murphy, don't you? No. I don't think we've met. How'd you do, sir? How'd you do, Holmes? How did you like the little game we played on you? It was rather a salutary experience. I suppose you gave them all the details to build up the picture of me, doctor? Yes. I did, Holmes. And knowing some of your methods, we tried to plant every clue that you'd pick up. Very neat job too. And incidentally, a perfect example of the dangers of deductions based on purely circumstantial evidence.
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I shall profit from this little lesson. I must say it was worth a fortune in emeralds to see your face, Holmes, when you realized what you'd done. Well, the joke's over now. By the way, where is Lady Anne? I believe she said she was going to fetch the orphan stone emerald. She thought you might be interested in seeing it. She probably feels the sight of it will solve my wounded vanity. Oh, here she comes now. Mister Holmes. Mister Holmes. It's got what's wrong? What's happened, Lady Anne? The emerald. It's not where I hid it. This time,
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it's
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really stolen. Doctor Watson's
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story will continue in just a few seconds. So I've just time to remind you that there are many many different types of wine. But if you want one wine that's fine for almost any occasion, then you want Petri California Sherry. Petri Sherry is fine before dinner of course. But Petri Sherry is good after dinner too. And it's the perfect wine for cocktail time or any time friends drop in. Everybody will love the real heart of the grape flavor you get in every sip of Petri Sherry. And you can serve petri sherry proudly because those letters p e t r I spell the proudest name in the history of American wine.
Petri wine. Doctor Watson, your April fool's day plot kind of backfired on you, didn't it? Yes. Mister Bartell, it was a perfect example of the, of the biter bit.
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Well, what happened next? I suppose Sherlock Holmes went into action once again. That's right, mister Bartell, and it gladdened my heart to see the change in the fuller. I confess I felt rather ashamed of my part in the prank, for I could see that Holmes' pride had been hurt. But now, with a definite crime before him, the difference was amazing. He suddenly became a dynamo, galvanized into action as he stood there, firing quest the other members.
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Lady Anne, who beside yourself knew of this fresh hiding place? Both Murphy and I did. Yes. After we left our deliberate clues on the safe, we went with Lady Anne and saw her secrete the emerald in the top drawer of her dressing table. We thought it would be alright there. After all, as soon as the joke was over, I was going put it back in the safe. Now I think our wisest plan before we question the servants would be for each one of you who were in this April fools day prank to submit to being searched. Holmes, surely you don't suggest that any one of us took the emeralds? No, Stanford. I don't. But if any one of you four are not guilty, this will be a splendid way of proving your innocence. I say steady, Holmes. You're not suggesting that lady Anne stole her own Elbrils, are you? Are you, mister Holmes? I'm suggesting nothing, but I may point out that the recent vogue for the insurance companies has provided another interesting motive for these so called thefts. I resent your insinuation. It's outrageous. Lady Anne, if I'm to recover your emerald, I must at least consider every possibility.
The search is the most immediate practical action. Perhaps you'll retire into the next room when I persuade these gentlemen to submit to being searched. Very well. But but I think you're in danger of making a fool of yourself once again. Wait. Don't don't go, Lady Anne. Search won't be necessary. What do you mean, mother?
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I I must throw myself on your mercy, lady Anne. I confess that I stole the emerald. Mercy. After you put it in the drawer, lady Anne, I I slipped back into the room and took it out. Murphy, that's a criminal action. I I know it, but I'm poor. I need money desperately for my mathematical research. I knew the emerald was priceless and I well, I couldn't resist the temptation to take advantage of a joke. Here, lady Anne, here's the stone and please don't prosecute me. Please don't. It'd be my ruin. May I examine the emerald, lady Anne? Thank you. Well, mister Murphy, I won't pretend that I'm not deeply deeply shocked. I must ask you to leave my house. But you won't prosecute me, will you? It was a moment's temptation.
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No. No. I won't prosecute you.
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Holmes,
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what are you doing with the emerald? Well, knowing something of the deceptive ways of thieves, I came on this case fully prepared to test the emerald when I found it. Now, a drop of this acid on this vial. So Mister Holmes, what are you doing? You'll enter the stone. No. Not if it's a true emerald. Uh-huh. Look at that. Good lord. The acid eating to the or bad. Good lord. The acid eating to the stone as if it was sugar. Then that means it? It means, lady Anne, that mister Murphy has just imperiled his honor and his freedom to steal a singularly beautiful fake.
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Mister Holmes, this joke has turned into a nightmare.
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Is there no way of recovering my emerald? I hope so, Lady Anne. I've been taking steps in their logical order. The servants have all been questioned. We've searched mister Stamford and mister Murphy. Yes. Most humiliating experience made me feel like a criminal. Well, personally, I was only too thankful to submit to a search this time. I knew I had nothing to worry about. Knew yourself, Lydia, and you you consented to being searched by the police matron that Holmes sent for? Only because he threatened to send for the police if I didn't.
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But distasteful though it was, I'd rather endure that than have this story on the front pages of the newspapers. And in spite of all these rather unfriendly proceedings, we've got exactly nowhere as regards finding the emeralds. No, Stanford. But we have at least eliminated the possibility
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that the thief is secreting the jewel on his person. Still somewhere in these two rooms, Holmes? I think so. Though there is one remaining possibility. And that is? That the fake stone was substituted for the real emerald sometime before all of you entered your april fool's day joke. Oh no, mister holmes. That's not possible.
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I know it was the genuine emerald I took out of the safe this morning. How can you be sure?
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The substitute was an excellent imitation. Without a chemical test such as I performed, it would be hard to be certain. I can tell you why I'm certain.
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Last night papa came to dinner and brought a mister van der Leiter of Amsterdam. He examined the stone and you'll agree that a dual expert like that couldn't be fooled. That's true, Lillianne. And what did you do with the emerald after mister van der Leiter left? I locked it in my safe and went to bed. Mhmm. I didn't unlock the safe again until doctor Stamford and mister Murphy came here this morning. That settles it then. The real emerald is still hidden somewhere in these two rooms. But where? That's the question. I must say it's completely mystifying.
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Well, let's go back to what we were all doing at the exact moment you came into the room, lady Anne, and informed us of the loss of your stone. Now we were We were drinking a toast to you and What's it? Lady Anne, hard thinking is,
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well, it's thirsty work. Oh, I'm so sorry. Let me get you something.
[00:20:00] Unknown:
A glass of pork, please. No. No. No. Thank you. But I, I observe that you have a remarkably comprehensive assortment of the cures. I wonder if I might have a glass of Creme de Mont. Oh, of course. I'll get it for you. Creme de Mont in the middle of the day, home? I knew you're eccentric, but this really thing This bottle, it it clinged as I picked it up. I fought it, my lady Anne. There's something inside it. Allow me, madam. Thank you. I'm sure you won't mind if I waste this liquor on the Aspidestra. So Lady Anne, allow me to restore to you the Elvifson emerald.
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Good Scott. Amazing. Fantastic.
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Ingenious. The one safe hiding place in the room. Where could a green gem be more effectively hidden than in a bottle of green liqueur?
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Who stole it? Who substituted the fake stone? Frankly, I don't care. The gem is restored. That that's all that matters. I prefer not to go to court. Neither you nor I, mister Sherlock Holmes, would show up in the best of light. And my father would disapprove of this whole affair, I'm afraid. Just as you wish, lady Ann.
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In either case, I shall expect your check for my services in due course.
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Well, here we are at the criterion again, Stanford. Won't you come in and join us for lunch? Thanks, Watson. But I'll keep the cabin go on. I actually have a patient this afternoon.
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A rare and delightful experience for a young doctor as you probably
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know. As rare and delightful as a client is for a young detective, mister.
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I quite understand and I'm correspondingly grateful to you for your your profitable folks. I'm glad it was profitable for you. Personally, I feel pretty stupid about the whole thing. Well, goodbye. Goodbye, Apollo. Goodbye. 39 Onslow Square, Cabby.
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You're remarkably
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quiet, my friend. Why? I'm afraid my conscience won't let me do much talking, doctor.
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I'm heartily ashamed of myself. Well, thanks for the lift off. I'll leave you chaps Oh, not a Saint John since you'll join us, but much, Murphy. But, No buts about it, Anxis. Come on. Well, it's awfully nice of you. Oh, come come come, Murphy. Any one of us can make a foolish mistake. It's just lucky that you didn't have to pay for yours.
[00:22:21] Unknown:
Mister your wishes, sir David. Yes. To three, please. This way, mister you.
[00:22:28] Unknown:
Does this David please you? Excellent. Thank you. Alright, George. I'm as hungry as a hunter. How about you, Murphy? Now I'm afraid I have very little appetite. This whole case has upset me dreadfully. You mustn't take it so much to heart, Murphy.
[00:22:40] Unknown:
By the way, doctor, I'd like to have your opinion on the case. Who do you think staged the theft of the emerald today? Perfectly obvious to me. Lady Anne Pilingdon did it herself to collect insurance money. If she hadn't, she'd have insisted on your finding the thief. But, you needn't worry, Olga. You get your fee all right, I'm sure that Oh, I'm not worrying worrying about the fee.
[00:22:59] Unknown:
But I assure you lady Anne did not engineer that fraud today.
[00:23:03] Unknown:
You you you mean that it was Stanford?
[00:23:05] Unknown:
Tell him who was responsible, my dear Murphy. But how should I know? Oh, come now, Murphy. Let's not fence any longer. You did an excellent job, a superlative job. I was, almost sorry to spoil it for you. I don't think I understand you, Yes, you do, Murphy. You're a splendid actor too. I was so deeply touched when you were apparently stolen a fake jewel and, all the time you knew that the real one was safely hidden in the bottle of claim de moth. We abstracted that, your leisure. You scoundrel. Holmes, do you mind telling me what's going on here? I'm completely and absolutely in the dark. Surely, it's obvious, my dear doctor. The imitation emerald was a brilliant copy. What makes you so sure of that, my dear? Because this April fool's day hoax was only conceived yesterday or that is what you wish the others to believe, such a superb paste gem could not have been made at such short notice. Therefore, it must have been prepared by someone who knew about the hoax before it was arranged. Now my dear doctor, when Stanford told you about the plan last night, whose idea did he say it was? He told me that it was lady Anne Farlington's plan. Precisely.
And yet lady Anne referred to it today as Stanford's idea. Obviously, you, my dear Murphy, presented the plan to each as the notion of the other and so only you could have arranged the real theft behind the hoax. I repeat,
[00:24:22] Unknown:
a splendid job. Thank you, mister Holmes.
[00:24:25] Unknown:
May I, may I also compliment you on your cleverness in frustrating my plot? Look here, what is all this? One of you is a criminal, the other is a detective. It's for throwing each other compliments as if you were in the same profession. The dividing line between the criminal and the criminal investigator is thinner than you might imagine, my dear doctor. How very true, my dear Holmes.
[00:24:43] Unknown:
Would you consider coming over to my side of the line? Together, we'd make make an unbeatable team. Oh, oh, oh, you flatter me. Nevertheless, I must decline your offer, mister Murphy. Oh, pity. On your side of the line, you'll never be a rich man. By the way, for your edification, my name is not Murphy, though Stanford insists on thinking it is. Then what is your name, you scoundrel? Your friend says the word scoundrel so much better than you, doctor. My name? My name is Mercury. Oh, indeed. Spelled m u r t r y? No. Dear me, I have so much trouble with my name. People will either misspell it or mispronounce it. I'm afraid I'll have to begin calling it the way it looks. M o r I a r t y. Moriarty.
[00:25:29] Unknown:
Moriarty. I shall remember that name. I have a feeling we shall meet again. I trust that we shall.
[00:25:37] Unknown:
You've won the first round, Sherlock Holmes. I admit that, but I believe that, a return match is indicated. I shall look forward to
[00:25:45] Unknown:
it, Mariotti. And now doctor, I can't stand your bill for clearing snorkel. Let's order luck, shall we?
[00:25:59] Unknown:
Doctor, that was a pretty hectic April fools day. Yes. It was. I I never want to see another one exactly like it. I don't blame you. You know, I'd sure hate to have someone come to my house and pull a trick like that on me. Why, mister Bartel, do you have a precious
[00:26:13] Unknown:
stolen? Are you kidding?
[00:26:15] Unknown:
I wouldn't know the difference between a precious emerald and a piece of green glass. But when it comes to rubies, that's something else. Oh, you would know a ruby when you when you saw it. Sure. Because a ruby has exactly the same color as a glass of Petri California port held up to the light. Mister Bartel, you can find more excuses for talking about Petri wine than any man in the entire world. Believe me. Excuses? I don't need an excuse to talk about Petri wine. Why there's a wine that actually speaks for itself. If I may borrow a phrase from Shakespeare or somebody.
There's no other wine quite like Petri wine because only Petri wine is made by the Petri family. And the petri family has been making wine for generations. They've been handing down from father to son, from father to son years and years of knowledge and experience of the fine art of turning luscious grapes with a clear fragrant wine. Yes and because the making of Petri wine is a family affair, those 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. You never miss with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine.
[00:27:32] Unknown:
Well, doctor Watson, what's the prescription for next week's? Well, next week, mister Bartell, I'm going to tell you rather unusual story. It concerns a series of strange disappearances and a murder without apparent reason, and yet it was a case that Sherlock Holmes solved without ever meeting any of the suspect. I call it the singer affair with disappearing scientist. Well, I'm sure we'll all wanna hear that one, doctor. Oh, I'm sure. Well, we got that. Oh, well, before you go, mister Bartell, I want to urge our friends that would do all they can to save on the use of all wheat and rice product and also fats and oils.
There are millions of families littlest starving to death in Europe and Asia. They're not being asked to give them our food but just being asked to take it easy on certain foods so that there will be some left for them to buy. I know there isn't one person listening to me tonight who would knowingly let anyone starve and remember unless you do help, thousands of little children will starve. So please, let's share a meal and save a life.
[00:28:36] Unknown:
Tonight, Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story, A Study in Scarlet. Music is by Dean Fosler. Mister Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer and mister Bruce through the courtesy Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock 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 Michael Shane 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.
[00:00:51] Unknown:
Petrie Wine brings you Basil Rathbone and and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures
[00:00:58] Unknown:
of Sherlock Holmes.
[00:01:05] Unknown:
The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invites you to listen to doctor Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend that master detective Sherlock Holmes. And right now I'd like to just briefly mention an idea you ought to try tomorrow night. Just before you sit down to dinner. Just pour yourself a glass of that good Petri California sherry. Petri sherry is the perfect before dinner wine. Its cheerful glowing amber color looks festive and it sort of lends an air of importance to the occasion. And as for the wine itself, just taste it. That Petri Sherry is not just ordinary wine. No, sir. One sip and you know that wonderful sun ripened grapes went into its making.
Yes. And you know that Petri Sherry was carefully watched over every step of the way. Incidentally, Petri makes two kinds of sherry. Regular sherry, Incidentally, Petri makes two kinds of sherry. Regular sherry and Petri pale dry. If you're not sure just which kind you and your friends will like best, try them both. Don't buy one, buy two. But when it comes to sherry or any other wine for that matter, be sure you always buy petrol. And now I'm certain our good friend doctor Watson's waiting for us. Let's go in and join. Oh,
[00:02:31] Unknown:
there you are, mister Burchell.
[00:02:33] Unknown:
Punctual to the minute as always. Well, this is one doctor's appointment I'm eager to keep.
[00:02:38] Unknown:
Nice to say so my boy. Draw up your usual chair and make yourself comfortable. Thanks. Well, doctor, today is April. Did, anyone try and play any jokes on you? Yes. It did, mister Barto. But I'm happy to say that nobody caught me. Not as in the story that I'm going to tell you tonight, but in April Fools' Day prank, Cirtanis caught a bull's eye.
[00:02:59] Unknown:
I see you have the dispatch box out again, doctor. Been refreshing your memory. Yes. I have,
[00:03:05] Unknown:
When I tell you the adventure took place at eighteen hundred and eighty one, I think you'll agree that after such a lack of time, a man can hardly rely on memory alone.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
1881.
[00:03:16] Unknown:
Doctor, tonight's adventure must have been one of the really early ones. Yes. It was indeed. In fact, to be exact, it took place only a little while after Sherlock Holmes and I had first met and had taken up lodging for Giller. Who was the great detective in those early days? Far, mister to me, me, mister Bartel. To give you an example, my boy, I'd shared our Baker Street lodgings with him for over a month before I was even certain of his profession. The knowledge of which I learned through my awe and astonishment when our first adventure together took place. Oh, that was the one you called the a study in scarlet, wasn't it doctor? That's right, mister Bart. Remember you got a study in scarlet. But even after that adventure I found myself wondering at times what I had myself in for, sharing lodgings with a strange companion.
Was in one of those moods of doubt and confusion that my story begins. Late one March evening I found myself in the neighborhood of Piccadilly Circus. It was cold and a steady drizzle of rain had dampened my spirits. I talked to a glass of wine and the sound of music put me in a better mood and and so, mister Bartell, I entered the Criterion restaurant. As I sat with a glass of rare vintage port at my elbow, the orchestra playing a dreamy, Strauss waltz in the background, I couldn't help thinking of the last time that I'd been there. It was the night I met a young medical student by the name of Stamford.
He was the man who first introduced me to Sherlock Holmes. Suddenly I put a cap on my shoulder, I turned and to my amazement once again young Stanford was standing before Watson. Or should I say doctor Watson? How are you my dear chap? Hello, Stanford. Come sit down. Thanks. I'm glad to see that you're not holding any grudge against me. Why on earth should I do that? For introducing you to Sherlock Holmes. I've reproached myself ever since. I think he's as mad as a hatter. Not at all. He may be eccentric. In fact, I'll admit that he is eccentric, but he's an extraordinary interesting fellow. He'll make a great name for himself as a private detective one of these days. You'll see if I'm not right, Stanford. I saw something about him in the paper the other day. Yes. But that was the Lowest and Gardens affair, wasn't it? Yes. Yes. It was. He's a brilliant man, Stanford. Quite brilliant. Mhmm. Though I must have pity for the time. He worked like a fiend as a rule, but occasionally a reaction sets in for days at a time. He'll lie on our sofa hardly after a word or moving a muscle from morning to night.
[00:05:30] Unknown:
Impressive, I must say. I think he takes himself too seriously. Yes. That's alright. How would you like to join in a little plot? Against Holmes? Yes. Yes. Just a rag, you know. We thought it'd be rather fun. We? Murphy and I, we were just talking about it. I'll call him over. Murphy? Oh, is it Murphy? I I've seen him before, something I haven't I? I'm sure you must have done. He's been around at the hospital, and any time you go in the British Museum, you'll find him there. Nice fellow, but dull. Definitely dull.
[00:05:54] Unknown:
Yes, Stanford. Oh, this is a friend of mine, John Watson. This is James Murphy. How do I think I've seen you at the hospital? And I know I've seen you, doctor Watson. Oh, sit down and come and join us, matur. Thank you very much. I was just telling Watson about our little plot. Oh, you you you mean about, Sherlock Holmes? Now now look here. I'd like you fellows to realize that Holmes is a very good friend of mine. Oh, don't worry, Watson. This is all in good fun. Don't you realize what the date is tomorrow? April 1, isn't it? Yes. April April fool's day. Oh, now I see. You're going to play an April fool's day joke on on Holmes. Yes. That's our plan. Well, it's hardly our plan, Stanford. It's really lady Anne Partington's idea. You see, Holmes was very rude to her when she visited the hospital recently, and she wants to, well, you know, take him down a peg or two. Sounds enough but I must say he's inclined to be rather arrogant at times. Well what's what's the plan? Well we'll need your help, Watson. You must be careful not to give the joke away. I'll bet you a fiver that Holmes falls for the whole story hook line and sinker. Now here's exactly what we're planning to do. Lady Anne is going to call on Holmes at Baker Street in the morning.
[00:06:56] Unknown:
Lady Anne, I'm very sad that you called to see me in my professional capacity. Surely my dear man, you didn't think this was a social call. You are much too rude to me at the hospital the other day for that. That was the point I was trying to make. Please sit down, would you? Either take this chair once you're ready, Alice. It's by far the most comfortable chair in the room. Oh, thank you doctor Watson. And now what can I do to help you? You've heard of the elfin stone emeralds? Oh, yes. Yes, indeed. A magnificent stone of
[00:07:19] Unknown:
very considerable value. An heirloom in your family, I believe. Yes, mister Holmes. I keep it in a wall safe in my bedroom. This morning when I had occasion to go to the safe,
[00:07:29] Unknown:
I discovered that the emerald had been stolen. Miss Tolan, Scott, shocking business. Of course, you want mister Holmes to recover it for you. A remarkable deduction, my dear doctor.
[00:07:37] Unknown:
Lady Anne, when you opened the safe, did you observe any signs of it having been tampered with? Okay. I think it's rather stupid to sit and answer questions here in Baker Street.
[00:07:47] Unknown:
Why don't you come over to my house in Cavendish Square and examine the Safeway yourself?
[00:07:52] Unknown:
You are a detective, aren't you? Lady Anne, just now you accused me of rudeness. I assure you that mine at least was unintentional. Oh, come come come, Holmes. Don't be so touchy. I can promise you a substantial fee, mister Holmes. I'm a struggling practitioner and a new profession. My poverty, but not my will, consent. I pay thy poverty
[00:08:10] Unknown:
and not thy will. You see, I can quote my Shakespeare too, mister Holmes. My carriage is waiting, gentlemen. Let's drive over to Cavendish Square at once, shall we?
[00:08:29] Unknown:
This is the wall safe, mister Holmes. Not too difficult. A safe crack for an expert. You placed the emerald in it last night, you say? Yes. When I went to bed. And this morning, it had gone. Well, surely, Holmes, this is a good occasion to use that magnifying glass that you're always fitting about. Excellent occasion my dear doctor. That's why I brought it with me. Uh-huh. That's very interesting. What is it? This safe was opened by an expert. There isn't a sign of it's having been forced. Hello. What have you discovered? There's a peculiar tarnish on the steel knob.
It was obviously handled by someone whose fingers are habitually stained with chemicals. Amazing harm. Let me mention my dear doctor. Where does that door doily do? My boudoir. I should like to examine it if I may. Oh, but of course. Thank you, Lady Anne.
[00:09:15] Unknown:
Doctor Watson,
[00:09:17] Unknown:
this is the most beautiful April fools day fraud I've ever played. Murphy was right. He has fallen for it. Hook, line, and sinker. Just to say, I'm beginning to feel guilty.
[00:09:25] Unknown:
I can't help feeling a a bit disloyal. Oh, nonsense. It's all in fun. Ask Stanford and mister Murphy listening. Yes. They're next door in my drawing room. I'm sure their ears are positively glued to the keyhole. Well, I do hope Holmes won't be angry with me. Here he comes. Nothing of any interest in there.
[00:09:41] Unknown:
The windows haven't been tampered with. We may presume therefore that the thief did not enter by an upstairs window. Lady Anne. Yes mister Holmes. This room has not been touched since you discovered your loss. Oh no. I told the servants to leave it exactly as it was while I came to fetch you. Splendid, splendid. Deep file can't be, could be better.
[00:10:00] Unknown:
The thief was a tall man with a long stride. Come come come Holmes, I know your methods but there aren't any footprints on this carpet that that you can identify
[00:10:08] Unknown:
even with your magnifying glass. I said doctor, I've studied many kinds and I've never seen one yet that was committed by a flying creature. As long as a criminal remains on his two legs, there must be some some trifling displacement can be detected by a keen observer. I assure you that the marks on this carpet indicate that the thief, was a tall man with a long stride. This is a tobacco ash. Hot tobacco. Jag tobacco that sells at pauper and surmounts. Now really mr Holmes, how can you possibly identify an individual tobacco? Oh it's a hobby of mine. In fact I've even written a monograph on the subject. Now one more look at the space itself.
Hello. What's this product done here? What? It rosette. I think the trace of rosette. Lady Anne, I suggest you get in touch with Scott and Yarbrough at once. You mean that you've solved it home? I mean my dear doctor, that I can give you a reasonably complete picture of the thief, and that picture is so individual that I'd be surprised if it would fit more than one man in London. This is pure magic, mister Holmes. Please describe him to me. Well, he's a tall man. The width of his stride indicates that and he's thin. Well, what enables you to tell that, Holmes? His footprints have made a remarkably light indentation on the lap of the carpet. Our thief dabbles extensively in chemicals as indicated by the tarnishing of the knob on the safe and the traces of rosin would suggest that he plays the violin also.
He smokes shag tobacco, has a great practical knowledge of the ways of combination locks, and he's obviously in close contact with the criminal pluses. How do you know that, mister Holmes? Well, you wouldn't steal a famous stone unless you knew how to dispose of it through some trustworthy fetish. It's a very comprehensive picture, Holmes. I almost feel as if I knew the chap. Thank you, doctor. I'm sure there's only one man in London, and it shouldn't be hard to praise him.
[00:11:59] Unknown:
I agree entirely, mister Holmes. Doctor Watson, I think the joke has gone far enough. Joke? What do you mean?
[00:12:06] Unknown:
You're quite right, Holmes, in in saying there's only one such man in London. You've just given a perfect description of yourself.
[00:12:13] Unknown:
Oh, April Fool. Doctor Stanford, mister Murphy, you can come in now. April fool. April
[00:12:20] Unknown:
fool.
[00:12:33] Unknown:
Come along here. Enter the drawing room, everyone. Blow a drink of glass of wine to mister Holmes who has so graciously forgiven us for the little trick we played on him. And also to doctor Stanford who thought of the whole idea. No hard feelings, Holmes. Oh, no, doctor.
[00:12:47] Unknown:
It was a rather embarrassing experience. Murphy told me about the plan. I I just couldn't resist joining him. Here you are, Holmes. Here's a drink. Thank you, Stanford. You know Murphy, don't you? No. I don't think we've met. How'd you do, sir? How'd you do, Holmes? How did you like the little game we played on you? It was rather a salutary experience. I suppose you gave them all the details to build up the picture of me, doctor? Yes. I did, Holmes. And knowing some of your methods, we tried to plant every clue that you'd pick up. Very neat job too. And incidentally, a perfect example of the dangers of deductions based on purely circumstantial evidence.
[00:13:21] Unknown:
I shall profit from this little lesson. I must say it was worth a fortune in emeralds to see your face, Holmes, when you realized what you'd done. Well, the joke's over now. By the way, where is Lady Anne? I believe she said she was going to fetch the orphan stone emerald. She thought you might be interested in seeing it. She probably feels the sight of it will solve my wounded vanity. Oh, here she comes now. Mister Holmes. Mister Holmes. It's got what's wrong? What's happened, Lady Anne? The emerald. It's not where I hid it. This time,
[00:13:47] Unknown:
it's
[00:13:49] Unknown:
really stolen. Doctor Watson's
[00:13:57] Unknown:
story will continue in just a few seconds. So I've just time to remind you that there are many many different types of wine. But if you want one wine that's fine for almost any occasion, then you want Petri California Sherry. Petri Sherry is fine before dinner of course. But Petri Sherry is good after dinner too. And it's the perfect wine for cocktail time or any time friends drop in. Everybody will love the real heart of the grape flavor you get in every sip of Petri Sherry. And you can serve petri sherry proudly because those letters p e t r I spell the proudest name in the history of American wine.
Petri wine. Doctor Watson, your April fool's day plot kind of backfired on you, didn't it? Yes. Mister Bartell, it was a perfect example of the, of the biter bit.
[00:14:53] Unknown:
Well, what happened next? I suppose Sherlock Holmes went into action once again. That's right, mister Bartell, and it gladdened my heart to see the change in the fuller. I confess I felt rather ashamed of my part in the prank, for I could see that Holmes' pride had been hurt. But now, with a definite crime before him, the difference was amazing. He suddenly became a dynamo, galvanized into action as he stood there, firing quest the other members.
[00:15:23] Unknown:
Lady Anne, who beside yourself knew of this fresh hiding place? Both Murphy and I did. Yes. After we left our deliberate clues on the safe, we went with Lady Anne and saw her secrete the emerald in the top drawer of her dressing table. We thought it would be alright there. After all, as soon as the joke was over, I was going put it back in the safe. Now I think our wisest plan before we question the servants would be for each one of you who were in this April fools day prank to submit to being searched. Holmes, surely you don't suggest that any one of us took the emeralds? No, Stanford. I don't. But if any one of you four are not guilty, this will be a splendid way of proving your innocence. I say steady, Holmes. You're not suggesting that lady Anne stole her own Elbrils, are you? Are you, mister Holmes? I'm suggesting nothing, but I may point out that the recent vogue for the insurance companies has provided another interesting motive for these so called thefts. I resent your insinuation. It's outrageous. Lady Anne, if I'm to recover your emerald, I must at least consider every possibility.
The search is the most immediate practical action. Perhaps you'll retire into the next room when I persuade these gentlemen to submit to being searched. Very well. But but I think you're in danger of making a fool of yourself once again. Wait. Don't don't go, Lady Anne. Search won't be necessary. What do you mean, mother?
[00:16:34] Unknown:
I I must throw myself on your mercy, lady Anne. I confess that I stole the emerald. Mercy. After you put it in the drawer, lady Anne, I I slipped back into the room and took it out. Murphy, that's a criminal action. I I know it, but I'm poor. I need money desperately for my mathematical research. I knew the emerald was priceless and I well, I couldn't resist the temptation to take advantage of a joke. Here, lady Anne, here's the stone and please don't prosecute me. Please don't. It'd be my ruin. May I examine the emerald, lady Anne? Thank you. Well, mister Murphy, I won't pretend that I'm not deeply deeply shocked. I must ask you to leave my house. But you won't prosecute me, will you? It was a moment's temptation.
[00:17:09] Unknown:
No. No. I won't prosecute you.
[00:17:12] Unknown:
Holmes,
[00:17:13] Unknown:
what are you doing with the emerald? Well, knowing something of the deceptive ways of thieves, I came on this case fully prepared to test the emerald when I found it. Now, a drop of this acid on this vial. So Mister Holmes, what are you doing? You'll enter the stone. No. Not if it's a true emerald. Uh-huh. Look at that. Good lord. The acid eating to the or bad. Good lord. The acid eating to the stone as if it was sugar. Then that means it? It means, lady Anne, that mister Murphy has just imperiled his honor and his freedom to steal a singularly beautiful fake.
[00:17:57] Unknown:
Mister Holmes, this joke has turned into a nightmare.
[00:18:01] Unknown:
Is there no way of recovering my emerald? I hope so, Lady Anne. I've been taking steps in their logical order. The servants have all been questioned. We've searched mister Stamford and mister Murphy. Yes. Most humiliating experience made me feel like a criminal. Well, personally, I was only too thankful to submit to a search this time. I knew I had nothing to worry about. Knew yourself, Lydia, and you you consented to being searched by the police matron that Holmes sent for? Only because he threatened to send for the police if I didn't.
[00:18:24] Unknown:
But distasteful though it was, I'd rather endure that than have this story on the front pages of the newspapers. And in spite of all these rather unfriendly proceedings, we've got exactly nowhere as regards finding the emeralds. No, Stanford. But we have at least eliminated the possibility
[00:18:38] Unknown:
that the thief is secreting the jewel on his person. Still somewhere in these two rooms, Holmes? I think so. Though there is one remaining possibility. And that is? That the fake stone was substituted for the real emerald sometime before all of you entered your april fool's day joke. Oh no, mister holmes. That's not possible.
[00:18:57] Unknown:
I know it was the genuine emerald I took out of the safe this morning. How can you be sure?
[00:19:02] Unknown:
The substitute was an excellent imitation. Without a chemical test such as I performed, it would be hard to be certain. I can tell you why I'm certain.
[00:19:11] Unknown:
Last night papa came to dinner and brought a mister van der Leiter of Amsterdam. He examined the stone and you'll agree that a dual expert like that couldn't be fooled. That's true, Lillianne. And what did you do with the emerald after mister van der Leiter left? I locked it in my safe and went to bed. Mhmm. I didn't unlock the safe again until doctor Stamford and mister Murphy came here this morning. That settles it then. The real emerald is still hidden somewhere in these two rooms. But where? That's the question. I must say it's completely mystifying.
[00:19:39] Unknown:
Well, let's go back to what we were all doing at the exact moment you came into the room, lady Anne, and informed us of the loss of your stone. Now we were We were drinking a toast to you and What's it? Lady Anne, hard thinking is,
[00:19:56] Unknown:
well, it's thirsty work. Oh, I'm so sorry. Let me get you something.
[00:20:00] Unknown:
A glass of pork, please. No. No. No. Thank you. But I, I observe that you have a remarkably comprehensive assortment of the cures. I wonder if I might have a glass of Creme de Mont. Oh, of course. I'll get it for you. Creme de Mont in the middle of the day, home? I knew you're eccentric, but this really thing This bottle, it it clinged as I picked it up. I fought it, my lady Anne. There's something inside it. Allow me, madam. Thank you. I'm sure you won't mind if I waste this liquor on the Aspidestra. So Lady Anne, allow me to restore to you the Elvifson emerald.
[00:20:36] Unknown:
Good Scott. Amazing. Fantastic.
[00:20:38] Unknown:
Ingenious. The one safe hiding place in the room. Where could a green gem be more effectively hidden than in a bottle of green liqueur?
[00:20:49] Unknown:
Who stole it? Who substituted the fake stone? Frankly, I don't care. The gem is restored. That that's all that matters. I prefer not to go to court. Neither you nor I, mister Sherlock Holmes, would show up in the best of light. And my father would disapprove of this whole affair, I'm afraid. Just as you wish, lady Ann.
[00:21:07] Unknown:
In either case, I shall expect your check for my services in due course.
[00:21:24] Unknown:
Well, here we are at the criterion again, Stanford. Won't you come in and join us for lunch? Thanks, Watson. But I'll keep the cabin go on. I actually have a patient this afternoon.
[00:21:33] Unknown:
A rare and delightful experience for a young doctor as you probably
[00:21:36] Unknown:
know. As rare and delightful as a client is for a young detective, mister.
[00:21:40] Unknown:
I quite understand and I'm correspondingly grateful to you for your your profitable folks. I'm glad it was profitable for you. Personally, I feel pretty stupid about the whole thing. Well, goodbye. Goodbye, Apollo. Goodbye. 39 Onslow Square, Cabby.
[00:21:55] Unknown:
You're remarkably
[00:21:56] Unknown:
quiet, my friend. Why? I'm afraid my conscience won't let me do much talking, doctor.
[00:22:01] Unknown:
I'm heartily ashamed of myself. Well, thanks for the lift off. I'll leave you chaps Oh, not a Saint John since you'll join us, but much, Murphy. But, No buts about it, Anxis. Come on. Well, it's awfully nice of you. Oh, come come come, Murphy. Any one of us can make a foolish mistake. It's just lucky that you didn't have to pay for yours.
[00:22:21] Unknown:
Mister your wishes, sir David. Yes. To three, please. This way, mister you.
[00:22:28] Unknown:
Does this David please you? Excellent. Thank you. Alright, George. I'm as hungry as a hunter. How about you, Murphy? Now I'm afraid I have very little appetite. This whole case has upset me dreadfully. You mustn't take it so much to heart, Murphy.
[00:22:40] Unknown:
By the way, doctor, I'd like to have your opinion on the case. Who do you think staged the theft of the emerald today? Perfectly obvious to me. Lady Anne Pilingdon did it herself to collect insurance money. If she hadn't, she'd have insisted on your finding the thief. But, you needn't worry, Olga. You get your fee all right, I'm sure that Oh, I'm not worrying worrying about the fee.
[00:22:59] Unknown:
But I assure you lady Anne did not engineer that fraud today.
[00:23:03] Unknown:
You you you mean that it was Stanford?
[00:23:05] Unknown:
Tell him who was responsible, my dear Murphy. But how should I know? Oh, come now, Murphy. Let's not fence any longer. You did an excellent job, a superlative job. I was, almost sorry to spoil it for you. I don't think I understand you, Yes, you do, Murphy. You're a splendid actor too. I was so deeply touched when you were apparently stolen a fake jewel and, all the time you knew that the real one was safely hidden in the bottle of claim de moth. We abstracted that, your leisure. You scoundrel. Holmes, do you mind telling me what's going on here? I'm completely and absolutely in the dark. Surely, it's obvious, my dear doctor. The imitation emerald was a brilliant copy. What makes you so sure of that, my dear? Because this April fool's day hoax was only conceived yesterday or that is what you wish the others to believe, such a superb paste gem could not have been made at such short notice. Therefore, it must have been prepared by someone who knew about the hoax before it was arranged. Now my dear doctor, when Stanford told you about the plan last night, whose idea did he say it was? He told me that it was lady Anne Farlington's plan. Precisely.
And yet lady Anne referred to it today as Stanford's idea. Obviously, you, my dear Murphy, presented the plan to each as the notion of the other and so only you could have arranged the real theft behind the hoax. I repeat,
[00:24:22] Unknown:
a splendid job. Thank you, mister Holmes.
[00:24:25] Unknown:
May I, may I also compliment you on your cleverness in frustrating my plot? Look here, what is all this? One of you is a criminal, the other is a detective. It's for throwing each other compliments as if you were in the same profession. The dividing line between the criminal and the criminal investigator is thinner than you might imagine, my dear doctor. How very true, my dear Holmes.
[00:24:43] Unknown:
Would you consider coming over to my side of the line? Together, we'd make make an unbeatable team. Oh, oh, oh, you flatter me. Nevertheless, I must decline your offer, mister Murphy. Oh, pity. On your side of the line, you'll never be a rich man. By the way, for your edification, my name is not Murphy, though Stanford insists on thinking it is. Then what is your name, you scoundrel? Your friend says the word scoundrel so much better than you, doctor. My name? My name is Mercury. Oh, indeed. Spelled m u r t r y? No. Dear me, I have so much trouble with my name. People will either misspell it or mispronounce it. I'm afraid I'll have to begin calling it the way it looks. M o r I a r t y. Moriarty.
[00:25:29] Unknown:
Moriarty. I shall remember that name. I have a feeling we shall meet again. I trust that we shall.
[00:25:37] Unknown:
You've won the first round, Sherlock Holmes. I admit that, but I believe that, a return match is indicated. I shall look forward to
[00:25:45] Unknown:
it, Mariotti. And now doctor, I can't stand your bill for clearing snorkel. Let's order luck, shall we?
[00:25:59] Unknown:
Doctor, that was a pretty hectic April fools day. Yes. It was. I I never want to see another one exactly like it. I don't blame you. You know, I'd sure hate to have someone come to my house and pull a trick like that on me. Why, mister Bartel, do you have a precious
[00:26:13] Unknown:
stolen? Are you kidding?
[00:26:15] Unknown:
I wouldn't know the difference between a precious emerald and a piece of green glass. But when it comes to rubies, that's something else. Oh, you would know a ruby when you when you saw it. Sure. Because a ruby has exactly the same color as a glass of Petri California port held up to the light. Mister Bartel, you can find more excuses for talking about Petri wine than any man in the entire world. Believe me. Excuses? I don't need an excuse to talk about Petri wine. Why there's a wine that actually speaks for itself. If I may borrow a phrase from Shakespeare or somebody.
There's no other wine quite like Petri wine because only Petri wine is made by the Petri family. And the petri family has been making wine for generations. They've been handing down from father to son, from father to son years and years of knowledge and experience of the fine art of turning luscious grapes with a clear fragrant wine. Yes and because the making of Petri wine is a family affair, those 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. You never miss with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine.
[00:27:32] Unknown:
Well, doctor Watson, what's the prescription for next week's? Well, next week, mister Bartell, I'm going to tell you rather unusual story. It concerns a series of strange disappearances and a murder without apparent reason, and yet it was a case that Sherlock Holmes solved without ever meeting any of the suspect. I call it the singer affair with disappearing scientist. Well, I'm sure we'll all wanna hear that one, doctor. Oh, I'm sure. Well, we got that. Oh, well, before you go, mister Bartell, I want to urge our friends that would do all they can to save on the use of all wheat and rice product and also fats and oils.
There are millions of families littlest starving to death in Europe and Asia. They're not being asked to give them our food but just being asked to take it easy on certain foods so that there will be some left for them to buy. I know there isn't one person listening to me tonight who would knowingly let anyone starve and remember unless you do help, thousands of little children will starve. So please, let's share a meal and save a life.
[00:28:36] Unknown:
Tonight, Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story, A Study in Scarlet. Music is by Dean Fosler. Mister Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer and mister Bruce through the courtesy Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock 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 Michael Shane followed immediately by Sherlock Holmes. This is the mutual broadcasting system.
