In this thrilling episode, we delve into a gripping tale from the life of Sherlock Holmes, set against the backdrop of the glamorous South of France in 1900. Holmes and Watson find themselves amidst the opulence and intrigue of a Riviera casino, where the roulette wheel spins fortunes and fates. The story unfolds with the mysterious death of a German gambler, Heinrich Schneemann, whose apparent suicide is soon followed by the suspicious demise of an American, Roger Gilbert. As Holmes and Watson navigate the complexities of the case, they encounter a web of deceit, jealousy, and murder, leading to a dramatic revelation of the true culprit. Join us as we unravel the mystery with Holmes' keen observations and logical deductions, revealing the sinister motives behind the facade of wealth and glamour. With a cast of intriguing characters, including the distraught widows and the enigmatic casino director, this episode promises a captivating journey into the heart of a classic detective story. Tune in for an adventure filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and the timeless brilliance of Sherlock Holmes.
(00:47) Introduction to the Episode
(02:22) Sherlock Holmes in the South of France
(03:35) The Casino Incident
(07:10) A Mysterious Death
(13:27) The Investigation Begins
(18:10) Unraveling the Mystery
(24:02) The Culprit Revealed
(26:04) Conclusion and Reflections
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[00:00:00]
Unknown:
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[00:00:31] Unknown:
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[00:00:44] Unknown:
O'Reilly. Auto parts. 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 Bruce in the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invites you to spend the next half hour listening to Doctor. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes.
And say, let me tell you something I found out just the other day. Steaks are really back again. Good, thick, juicy porterhouse steaks. That's for me. A thick tender steak on the rare side, together with a glass of Petri California Burgundy. You know, Petri Burgundy is a perfect mealtime wine. And with meat or any meat dish, it's the very last word in good eating. Honestly, when you taste the wonderful flavor of that rich red Petri Burgundy, you're tasting one swell example of the art of wine making. It's full flavored and just about the most delicious wine that ever poured from a bottle.
Try it the next time you have steak or chops, or the next time you have hamburger or pot roast. Believe me, petri burgundy is the best friend a good meal ever had. And now let's look in on our good friend and host, Doctor. Watson.
[00:02:26] Unknown:
Come in. Come in. Come in. Ah, there you are, Mr. Bartell. Evening, Doctor. Just in time to join me in a cup of coffee. Grow up your chair, young fellow, my lad. Thank you.
[00:02:37] Unknown:
That's it. Well, doctor, you told us last week that tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure takes us to the South Of France. That's right, mister Bartel. The South Of France in the year 1900.
[00:02:48] Unknown:
A beautiful playground bordered by the bluest of blue seas and populated with an extraordinary cross section of cosmopolitan Europe. Rich man, poor man, beggar man, thief. All of them attracted by that Riviera of paradise. All of them drawn by the magical spell of a small white ball spinning round the rim of a roulette wheel. Now, don't tell me that you and the great Sherlock Holmes were there on a gambling spree. We were not, mister Bartow. Mhmm. At the time my story begins, we just concluded an extremely delicate mission. A mission I may say that, concerned the safety and good name of a very prominent member of the royal family.
Say doctor, you don't mean one story at a time, mister Barco. In any event, my boy, I'm afraid that's the case about which my lips are sealed for all time. But to return to tonight's adventure, one June evening, I persuaded Holmes to accompany me to the gambling casino at Frages, not far from town where we were staying. It wasn't quite as fashionable as a casino at Monte Carlo, but as I intended to do a little modest gambling myself, it seemed an establishment more suited to my means. As we stood there at the green bays covered tables, the chatter of voices and the melodic chanting of the couperes as they called the results of each spin of the wheel formed a background to a quiet conversation that Holmes and I were having.
I see quite very fast. Lost again, Watson.
[00:04:23] Unknown:
Oh, can I find it? That number 10 must can't sue. Why not cut your losses over and come for a stroll with me on the border. Well, just a big way. A couple more bets, Holmes. I I have a feeling that 10 is bound to come up enough. Watson, I believe the blood of the gambler courses through your veins. Oh, there's no harm in taking a little flutter once in a while. Why don't you risk a few francs, Holmes? Oh, thank you, my dear chap. The law of averages convinces me that my money is safer in my pocket. Any case, I'm a little dubious as to the integrity of this particular casino. What makes you say that? Well, you will observe that this roulette wheel has a double zero.
Most continental wheels have only a single one. We'd indicate that this house is extremely concerned with its percentage. Madame de nousieur.
[00:05:03] Unknown:
Oh, just two more turns of the wheel, Holmes, and I'll take that walk with you. Oh, hold on, mister Laheer's feeling. Why do you not play from the other side of the table? Why must you always stand next to me? Hello. The trouble up there? I have faced my bed, sir, so let's go and see. I'll ask you. So why do you play here beside me? I'm afraid I don't see any reason why I can't play wherever I. Swear she are. You broke on my luck. Ever since you come to the table, I've done nothing but rules. Please do move away. I'll move away yourself if you don't like my company. Heinrich, why do you not stop now? You've already lost more than we can afford. One more choice, sir. I can win it all back if only this young man will move away. Why should my husband move? He's had a bad run of luck too. I must stop you, sir, because I've lost everything.
I hope you're satisfied, mister American. You've broken my luck in ruin. I hope that you and your turn will be ruined. Heinrich, kind of pray for me. I've never heard such rubbish in my life. Were you listening to him, sir? No. I've never heard such rubbish in my life. Were you listening to him, sir? I heard his last few remarks, mister Gilbert. Roger Gilbert. And this is my wife, Helen. How do you do? My name is Holmes and this is my friend, doctor Watson. How do you do? How do you do? Didn't you think his remarks were in a lot of place, doctor? I certainly did, missus Gilbert. I don't see how I can possibly blame your husband for his run of bad luck. I didn't like the look on his face as he left the table, though. Is there any idea who he is? His name is Shnaeman. He's staying at the same hotel as we are. I've never spoken to him, but I've heard him being paged there. Well, you shouldn't gamble unless you can afford to lose. I'm losing darling and I can't afford it. Oh, but I can let you have more money. You know that. No, Helen. I may have married an artist, but I'm not going to use a fortune to gamble with.
I'll lose my own money and then I'll quit.
[00:06:48] Unknown:
You lost it, Watson? Yes, Holmes. This time I know that number 10 is gonna come up. It's got to.
[00:07:10] Unknown:
I've lost again, Donna. Helen, missus, my bad night. Why don't you stop now, dear? Holmes, I've made CHF350.
[00:07:18] Unknown:
On this straw of the wheel, old fellow. But as you've lost some CHF500 doing it, I can't say that your profits stagger me. Oh, mister Holmes. I can see that you're no gambler. I'm afraid not, mister Gilbert. Say that Holmes, you may not like roulette. You've taken a good many chances in your life with long odds against you too. Nevertheless, old chap in the sense that mister Gilbert means it, I am not a gambler. Oh, I see. Hey. What's the commotion over there? A German
[00:07:59] Unknown:
What happened, madam? It is my husband. Is he old? I just found him lying out in the garden. Please come with me at once, gentlemen.
[00:08:07] Unknown:
Of course, Wilbur, madam. What seems to be the matter with him? Air doctor.
[00:08:10] Unknown:
I think he is dead. He's lying by that tree, doctor.
[00:08:26] Unknown:
Please see if you can help him. Somebody else seems to be on the scene before us.
[00:08:30] Unknown:
Who you, sir? I am Monsieur Chevre, director of the casino. Do any of you know this poor man? I am his wife. Is he?
[00:08:38] Unknown:
Is he dead? I am I am afraid so, madam. Let me look at him. I'm a doctor. Was your husband gambling in the casino tonight, madam? Yeah. He was. Poor Heinrich. He lose everything that we have. I'm afraid he is dead, madam. Shock to the heart. Oh, to leap of gut.
[00:08:56] Unknown:
Suicide, Watson? Yeah. Looks like it.
[00:09:01] Unknown:
Yeah. Powder burns on the shirt front, revolver touched in the right hand, fingers in a natural position. The angle of the wound settles it. Obviously, self inflicted. I missed you as you slipped out of the casino. What's wrong with it? I'm afraid he's dead, mister Gilbert. Yes. He committed suicide.
[00:09:18] Unknown:
I hope, young man, that you are satisfied. All night you brought him bad luck. He asked you to move away. He asked you to move away. He asked All
[00:09:20] Unknown:
night you brought him bad luck. He asked you to move away from him to change his luck, but no, you could not do it. Oh, Frau Schneemann, I'm terribly sorry, but I really don't see how you can blame me. I do blame you. And I also blame you, mister Chevre. Me? But what have I done, madame? Why do you let a man lose all his money at your tables? Is life so cheap to you? Only money so important that you cannot close the tables to someone before he's gone? Madame,
[00:09:45] Unknown:
I am all sympathy for you in your tragic loss. But the casino cannot be held responsible. If your husband could not afford to gamble, then he should not come here. How are we to know the financial limitations of, of our customers? You said that your husband lost everything you had tonight, madam. Yeah. Everything.
[00:10:02] Unknown:
Then how do you account for the sheaf of bank notes in his breast pocket? Good lord. Must be several thousand francs, sir. Then he wasn't ruined. And his suicide, therefore, cannot be blamed on his losses at my casino, madame. How do you account for this money, Frauleiman? Well, I do not understand.
[00:10:19] Unknown:
Heinrich kept nothing from me. I know that he had not so much money on him that he started tonight.
[00:10:25] Unknown:
Well, why do you all look at me like that? Is it that you think? You think that But why don't she's painted? I've got her. Please. Just get her her to her room. You can take her to my suite in the casino. No. Let's take her to the hotel. My wife will look after her. Poor woman, she's had a dreadful shock. She can probably do with another woman's company. That's very considerate of you, mister Gilbert. Where are you staying? At the Hotel Creon. It's quite near here. I'll get a cabin while I'm doing that, Watson. See if you can revive her, William. Missus
[00:10:56] Unknown:
Then we'll take her to the Hotel Creon.
[00:11:02] Unknown:
Very kind of you, missus Gilbert, to let us bring the poor lady into your suite. But the least I can do in spite of what she said about Roger bringing her husband bad luck. I'm sure she'll need your help when she wakes up, Helen. Yes. I think you'll find that she'll sleep for some hours. I gave her a strong sedative. Oh, we were just about to have a drink, gentlemen. Do you care to join us? Oh, thank you, sir. Well, that'd be very nice, mister Gilbert. Roger was just telling me that quite a large sum of money was found on Harold Shaberman's body, mister Holmes? Yes, missus Gilbert.
[00:11:27] Unknown:
Several thousand francs. It's really puzzling, Holmes. Why should a man commit suicide with so much money on him? I think the answer is obvious.
[00:11:35] Unknown:
He didn't. What on earth do you mean? Well, the money was placed there after he had shot himself. The bank notes were in his breast pocket, if you remember, and hardly the usual place to carry money. Though it is the easiest pocket for someone to insert it without disturbing the body. But why on earth should someone place money on him after his suicide? To prevent the casino from getting a bad name, I've heard of it being done on several similar occasions.
[00:12:00] Unknown:
It gives the impression that the unfortunate victim had other motives than gambling losses to a country's suicide. Wait, Scott. You mean that one of the casino employers found the body laying there and slipped the money in his breast pocket before we arrived on the scene? As you know, my dear Watson, I'm not a gambling man, but I'll lay you a hundred to one. That is what happened. Well, that's a new one. Well, here are your drinks gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you so much. Say Helen, Mr. Holmes has given me a brainwave. Another one? What is it this time, Roger? Now I've been losing very heavily tonight. Roger, I told you. If you need money, I'll be only But I don't.
[00:12:33] Unknown:
I've got a scheme for making some. I'm going to gamble again tonight after dinner. If I lose, here's what I'll do. I'll stain my shirt front with red ink, walk out in the grounds, fire a shot, and lie down as though I'm dead. I'll wait for someone to come along and stuff my pockets full of bank notes. Not a bad idea, Mr. Gilbert. I think it's a darn good one. What do you say, Mr. Holmes? It's a whimsical one at any rate. Who knows?
[00:12:57] Unknown:
You might even be successful. Roger, you're not really going to do it, are you? Sure.
[00:13:02] Unknown:
Perhaps I'll get some of my losses back that way. Well, let's drink to it, gentlemen. At least I may have hit upon an idea of making money.
[00:13:28] Unknown:
My dear Watson, you will have to work hard at your practice when you get back to England. Your infallible system appears to be extremely fallible. And you have to follow who told me about it, said it's good and miss. It's just a matter of doubling mistakes each time you'll know. Oh, my dear fellow. I've been studying your system, but I can tell you a really infallible way of making money at roulette. You can? What is it? Well, own the gambling house and operate the tables yourself. The odds would be all in your favor. Oh, what a brilliant suggestion. Not
[00:13:58] Unknown:
gambling for tonight, Watson? Nearly 11:00. No. I think so. Let's take a stroll around the other table, shall we?
[00:14:05] Unknown:
Other way, old fellow, the young American, mister Gilbert, was losing heavily again tonight. He was? I wonder if he'll try that trick that he threatened, the one with the red ink and the shot in the night. I should be at all surprised. It's a matter of, interest. I saw him leave the tables about half an hour ago.
[00:14:21] Unknown:
Here comes his wife on the arm of mister Chevre, the director of the casino. Agree with you. Good evening, missus Gilbert. Monsieur? Bonsoir, monsieur. Hello, mister Holmes. Doctor Watson. Watson. Mister Chevre is giving me a personally conducted tour of the casino. It's quite fascinating. And it is quite fascinating for me to have so beautiful a woman on my arm by myself.
[00:14:40] Unknown:
I know that I am the envy of all the men in the room. Oh, stop flattering me so much. I'm not used to it. Missus Gilbert, how is, Fraus Schneemann? She seems much better. She wakened an hour ago and insisted on going back to her own room. I wanted her to spend the night with us in our suite, but she wouldn't hear her. Do you think I should drop in and see her before I go to bed? Oh, you have finished the jambling for tonight perhaps, doctor? No. Perhaps about it, missus Chevalier. I've had a bad run at the tables. Oh, I am so sorry. Has anyone seen Roger? He left the table about half an hour ago, missus Gilbert. After doing as I did and losing quite heavily. Very lost again, did he? I wonder if he'll try that, new system he was talking about. We were just discussing that possibility ourselves, missus Gilbert. Missus Gilbert. Missus
[00:15:23] Unknown:
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[00:16:12] Unknown:
The pet's name and you shouldn't have left your hotel, you know. It is too late to worry for me here, doctor. It is for missus Gilbert now that you should worry. What do you mean, madame? Well, I went back just now to where poor Heinrich died. And there lying in the glass, I saw another body. I was too shocked to go too close, but I am quite sure that I recognize your husband, Mrs. Gilbert. Oh, Doctor. Watson, she's ruined Rogers' trick. And you have taken fright and bolted by the time we get there. Doctor. Bibb, let's go at once and find out, shall we?
[00:16:50] Unknown:
He he hasn't gone. He's he's still lying there. It's a most convincing spectacle.
[00:16:55] Unknown:
That red ink really does look like blood.
[00:16:58] Unknown:
Yes. And blood sometimes looks like red ink. Mister Gilbert.
[00:17:04] Unknown:
Roger, get up. The joke's spoiled. Roger,
[00:17:09] Unknown:
get up. I'm afraid that's impossible, missus Gilbert. He's dead.
[00:17:23] Unknown:
Doctor. Watson's story will be continued in just a second, which is all the time I need to tell you that the easiest way I know to transform a simple meal into a feast is to serve that meal together with Petri California Sauternes. Petri Sauternes is a delicate white wine that's the perfect companion for chicken or turkey. Turkey, ah, yes. Turkey and Petri Sauternes. That's the heart of any Thanksgiving dinner. Look, why not make this Thanksgiving dinner the best one you ever had? Give it the air of a banquet. Giving dinner the best one you ever had? Give it the air of a banquet. Serve it with Petri Sauternes.
And when you buy that Sauternes or any wine for your Thanksgiving dinner, whatever you do, look for the letters p e t r I because a Petri wine is always a good wine.
[00:18:10] Unknown:
Well, doctor, so the young Americans joke turned out to be another tragedy. Yes, mister Bartel. The poor fellow was lying there dead with a bullet wound in the heart and a great splash of blood staining the whiteness of his shirt front. What happened next? Mister Chevre, director of the casino, took the distraught widow away from the scene while Holmes and I examined the body closely. Within a few minutes, we were joined by inspector, Ganive of the French police. As we stood there in the moonlight, the sounds of music could be heard from the casino.
It was hard to believe that two men had died in that lovely garden since the moon had risen.
[00:18:53] Unknown:
Monsieur Holmes, you and doctor Watson have concluded your examination? Yes, Inspector Ganiver. Would you favor me with your observations? You say that you are certain that this is not another suicide? I'm sure of it, inspector. Look at the wound.
[00:19:06] Unknown:
The bullet entered the body at a direct right angle, whereas a self inflicted shot is always found obliquely. Yes. That is so. Then, you suggest that this man was shot from above as he lay on the ground pretending to be dead. I'm convinced of it. Why, monsieur? Well, for two reasons. It's impossible to be sure without a laboratory test. I'm certain that beneath those bloodstains are stains of red ink.
[00:19:28] Unknown:
Look for yourself, inspector. Mhmm. Yes. Indeed, it does look like it. What is your other reason for being certain that this man was shot as he lay here pretending dead? I'll show him the bank notes, Watson. Here you are, Inspector. We found them
[00:19:41] Unknown:
stuffed in his breast pocket. So
[00:19:44] Unknown:
bank notes with a bullet hole through the middle of them. Very illuminated. Tell me, gentlemen, how many people knew of this, this little plot you have told me about, this plan of the dead man's to pretend to be shot? Just three people, inspector. Doctor Watson, myself, and missus Gilbert. Hello? Then the answer is obvious. Obvious. You and your friend are innocent. It must be the wife who killed him. No one else knew of the plan. I'm not so sure of that. Rauschneemann, the dead German's widow, was in the next room when Gilbert told us about his plan.
[00:20:12] Unknown:
She might have heard, though I could swear that she was asleep.
[00:20:15] Unknown:
I gave her a very strong sleeping draft. From what you have told me of her husband's suicide, she might easily have had a motive for murdering this man. Come come come gentlemen. Surely it's obvious who murdered mister Gilbert? Who, Monsieurons? Certainly, one of the two widows. Since there seems to be some doubt in your minds, I suggest we return to the casino. I can promise you the answer to your question within a very few minutes.
[00:20:48] Unknown:
Well, mister Chevre, now that we're all assembled in your office, I shall sit down quietly and let Inspector Gannivey conduct his examination. No. No. No, monsieur Holmes. No. You have handled the case so far. Please to cons continue it to the end. Yes, monsieur Holmes.
[00:21:01] Unknown:
I should appreciate it. Be happy that you're sitting here. Very well, gentlemen. It won't take me long. First name on. Yeah. Holmes.
[00:21:10] Unknown:
What time did you leave your hotel tonight? Well, I do not know what time it was. Well, what made you leave it? I could not sleep. I knew that they had taken poor Heinrich's body away, but I felt that I must walk back there. It was the last place I saw him alive. How close did you come to mister Gilbert's body when you saw it lying there? Oh, close enough to see who it was. Then I ran into the casino to tell his wife I knew what had happened. How did you know? You say you, didn't come close to the body. I could tell by every line of the body as a lady. I could tell because I knew that poor Heinrich Stead would not be avenged.
[00:21:43] Unknown:
Thank you, Farfetch. That will be all you may go. Monsieur Holmes, she has no alibi. Surely you should to come pray. If I'm to conduct this investigation, I must do it my own way. Madame, Monsieur Holmes. Please continue.
[00:21:54] Unknown:
You may go, Frau Schneider.
[00:21:58] Unknown:
Missus Gilbert? Yes, mister Holmes. Where were you prior to our meeting at the casino tonight just before we discovered your husband's body?
[00:22:06] Unknown:
After I left the hotel, I walked over here along the seafront.
[00:22:10] Unknown:
Can anyone verify that statement? I suppose not. I didn't meet anyone that I knew. And what did you do when you arrived at the casino?
[00:22:18] Unknown:
I played a little Chemin affair. A few moments later, mister Chevrolet came over to the table and asked if he might escort me over the club. Ten minutes after that, we walked into you and doctor Watson. That is quite true, mister Holmes. I can swear to it. Thank you, missus Gilbert. I'm sorry to distress you with these questions. You may go. I'll wait outside, mister Holmes. I must know what happened. Wait for me, madame.
[00:22:40] Unknown:
I shall join you in a few minutes in escort you home.
[00:22:44] Unknown:
Oh, well, another suspect for the poor alibi alibi. Hey, Gallivert? I must say, monsieur Holmes, your methods puzzled me. It seems to me that both those women should be watched. Yes. I agree with you, Inspector Holmes. Please don't worry, Inspector. I've asked two of your plainclothes men to keep an eye on the ladies. And now, monsieur Chevre,
[00:23:02] Unknown:
I'd like to ask you a few questions. Ask me any questions you wish, monsieur Holmes.
[00:23:06] Unknown:
Thank you. You will agree that it is the custom of the casino to put money on the bodies of suicides after their death, to give the impression that gambling gambling losses were not responsible for the tragedy. Well, I I I do not think Oh, come now, chevary. I know that is a fact as well as you do. Exactly. Now, on those rather gruesome occasions, whose responsibility is it to secrete the money, yours, or do you entrust the matter to an underling? I do it myself. I see. Did you place the money on Herr Schneemann tonight? Yes, monsieur. I did. And did you also perform the same service on the body of mister Gilbert? No.
[00:23:41] Unknown:
I knew nothing of that death until a German lady, Faust Schlehmann, come running into the casino. Excuse me interrupting, monsieur. Of course, inspector. What is it? I think that you are wasting time. It is obvious that madame Gilbert committed the crime. She knew of her husband's plot. She had no alibi and she had the motive. For is not
[00:23:59] Unknown:
marriage itself the greatest of all motives for murder? Oh, my dear inspector. How very cynical. Madame Dubert did not kill her husband. I know it. And what is your opinion, Watson? Well, it's a German woman. She had no alibi either. And remember, she was half mad with with grief. Mister Scheffroy, you say that you know missus Gilbert is not guilty.
[00:24:19] Unknown:
How do you know? I was with her myself at the time the murder was committed.
[00:24:22] Unknown:
Oh, indeed. How very interesting. And what time was the murder committed? Well,
[00:24:29] Unknown:
it it was it it was Our investigations have never established what time the murder was committed, mister Chevre? The murder
[00:24:34] Unknown:
was committed, monsieur Chevre. I'm afraid you've walked into my trap.
[00:24:38] Unknown:
You've given yourself away. Right. It's not Chevre. It was you. Chevre, I've known you a good many years, and this is going to be a hard thing to do. I am going to arrest you. Oh, no. You're not tell me?
[00:24:46] Unknown:
Put on that revolver, mister. Do not be frightened, doctor. I am not going to shoot you. Chevre,
[00:24:53] Unknown:
why did you murder Roger Gilbert tonight? Surely, you know that too, mister Holmes.
[00:24:59] Unknown:
Because I am in love with his wife. She's young, beautiful, and rich. It did not occur to me until I saw the young fool lying there tonight pretending to be dead. In my profession, it is natural that I should carry a revolver. What was simpler? Mister Gilbert gave me the perfect opportunity. I I could not resist it. Put down that revolver, Chebrey. Why are you all so frightened? Surely, you know how I am going to use it this time. I think so, monsieur,
[00:25:29] Unknown:
but it's a coward's way out.
[00:25:32] Unknown:
What an unreceptive remark for such a perceptive man. No. No. All my life, I have been a gambler. I gambled tonight for the highest stakes of all, and and I lost. No. No. I am not afraid to pay for my losses.
[00:25:51] Unknown:
I will form a ship. An extraordinary case, Holmes. I never suspected Chevre. And I, old chap, suspected him from the beginning. Well, I wasn't the only one who was stupid anyway.
[00:26:14] Unknown:
Inspector Ganiver thought it was the wife. True. Very puzzling conclusion for a detective inspector to arrive in. It won't seem logical enough to me at the time. No. No. No. My dear Watson, cold logic should have told you otherwise. Roger Gilbert has been losing heavily and had planned this hoax. He obviously had no money on him. Therefore, the money was planted in his pocket by Chevre. After he shot him? No, my dear fellow. Before. Before? The bullet holes through the banknotes provided that. Now, had the money been put there innocently, Gilbert would have, well, you know, come back to life as soon as the person placing it there had left.
[00:26:50] Unknown:
He would not have remained lying on the ground for a murderer to find him. Then Chevre must have bent over him as he lay there, placed the money in his breast pocket, and then fired. Precisely, Watson. Well, I must say you solved it very neatly. You've told Inspector Ganaway that you wanted no credit in the case. Naturally,
[00:27:09] Unknown:
publicity would be unfavorable. If you remember, no one is supposed to know that we're in the South Of France. I'm certain that the inspector learned a few tips about detection tonight. Possibly, and I hope that, you have learned a few things about gambling. How do you mean, Holmes? Well, you're backing the wrong color. A gambler is usually superstitious and superstition well, I should have told you what color to follow tonight. I still don't understand you, Holmes. I was playing number 10. Exactly. Number 10 is black.
You should have followed a red color tonight, Othello, a color of red ink, red ink, and blood.
[00:27:54] Unknown:
Say doctor, that was a swell story. I didn't know you like to play roulette. Well You know, I figured out a system for roulette.
[00:28:02] Unknown:
It's like yours. Every time you lose, you double your money and keep doubling until you win. Oh, it's a great system, mister Bartell. Is there any one thing wrong with it? What's that? You usually go broke before you win. Mister, look, look, take take my advice. Don't gamble. You can't beat the laws of chance.
[00:28:18] Unknown:
But suppose I bet on a sure thing. Like what for instance? Oh, like the fact that Petri wine is always good wine. It is, you know. Because the Petri family has been making wine for generations. They've been handing down from father to son, from father to son, the art of turning luscious sun ripened grapes into delicious fragrant wine. Ever since the Petri family started their business way back in the eighteen hundreds, they've been perfecting the art of winemaking. That's why Petri wine is always good wine. The Petri family took time to bring you good wine.
So no matter what type wine you prefer, why not take a few seconds of your time to look for the letters p e t r I. They spell delicious wine, Petri wine.
[00:29:06] Unknown:
Well, Doctor. Watson, what new Sherlock Holmes story are you going to tell us next week? Next week, mister Barthel, I'm going to tell you of a strange adventure that Sherlock Holmes and I had when we were instructed on Avon many years ago. It concerns an actor, a mysterious boating accident, and several dead butterflies. Sounds good, doctor. I'll see you then. Oh, fine. But now now, don't forget next week, we're going to broadcast our program from the Paramount Theater in Hollywood for the Victory Loan Drive. So if any of our friends are going to be in Hollywood, we'd love to see them there. Just buy a Victory Bond at any store or bank on Hollywood Boulevard and in return, you will be given your ticket of admission.
Better hurry up though before all the seats are gone. Let's really buy lots of those Victory Bonds. Let's finish the job.
[00:30:00] Unknown:
Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in the Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Study in Scarlet. Music is by Dean Foster. Mister Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and mister Bruce through the courtesy of Universal Pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. This is Harry Bartell saying good night for the Petri family. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studio.
This is the mutual broadcasting system.
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[00:00:31] Unknown:
Check engine light on? Take the guesswork out of your check engine light with O'Reilly VeriScan. It's free. Ask for O'Reilly VeriScan today. O'Reilly.
[00:00:44] Unknown:
O'Reilly. Auto parts. 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 Bruce in the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invites you to spend the next half hour listening to Doctor. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes.
And say, let me tell you something I found out just the other day. Steaks are really back again. Good, thick, juicy porterhouse steaks. That's for me. A thick tender steak on the rare side, together with a glass of Petri California Burgundy. You know, Petri Burgundy is a perfect mealtime wine. And with meat or any meat dish, it's the very last word in good eating. Honestly, when you taste the wonderful flavor of that rich red Petri Burgundy, you're tasting one swell example of the art of wine making. It's full flavored and just about the most delicious wine that ever poured from a bottle.
Try it the next time you have steak or chops, or the next time you have hamburger or pot roast. Believe me, petri burgundy is the best friend a good meal ever had. And now let's look in on our good friend and host, Doctor. Watson.
[00:02:26] Unknown:
Come in. Come in. Come in. Ah, there you are, Mr. Bartell. Evening, Doctor. Just in time to join me in a cup of coffee. Grow up your chair, young fellow, my lad. Thank you.
[00:02:37] Unknown:
That's it. Well, doctor, you told us last week that tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure takes us to the South Of France. That's right, mister Bartel. The South Of France in the year 1900.
[00:02:48] Unknown:
A beautiful playground bordered by the bluest of blue seas and populated with an extraordinary cross section of cosmopolitan Europe. Rich man, poor man, beggar man, thief. All of them attracted by that Riviera of paradise. All of them drawn by the magical spell of a small white ball spinning round the rim of a roulette wheel. Now, don't tell me that you and the great Sherlock Holmes were there on a gambling spree. We were not, mister Bartow. Mhmm. At the time my story begins, we just concluded an extremely delicate mission. A mission I may say that, concerned the safety and good name of a very prominent member of the royal family.
Say doctor, you don't mean one story at a time, mister Barco. In any event, my boy, I'm afraid that's the case about which my lips are sealed for all time. But to return to tonight's adventure, one June evening, I persuaded Holmes to accompany me to the gambling casino at Frages, not far from town where we were staying. It wasn't quite as fashionable as a casino at Monte Carlo, but as I intended to do a little modest gambling myself, it seemed an establishment more suited to my means. As we stood there at the green bays covered tables, the chatter of voices and the melodic chanting of the couperes as they called the results of each spin of the wheel formed a background to a quiet conversation that Holmes and I were having.
I see quite very fast. Lost again, Watson.
[00:04:23] Unknown:
Oh, can I find it? That number 10 must can't sue. Why not cut your losses over and come for a stroll with me on the border. Well, just a big way. A couple more bets, Holmes. I I have a feeling that 10 is bound to come up enough. Watson, I believe the blood of the gambler courses through your veins. Oh, there's no harm in taking a little flutter once in a while. Why don't you risk a few francs, Holmes? Oh, thank you, my dear chap. The law of averages convinces me that my money is safer in my pocket. Any case, I'm a little dubious as to the integrity of this particular casino. What makes you say that? Well, you will observe that this roulette wheel has a double zero.
Most continental wheels have only a single one. We'd indicate that this house is extremely concerned with its percentage. Madame de nousieur.
[00:05:03] Unknown:
Oh, just two more turns of the wheel, Holmes, and I'll take that walk with you. Oh, hold on, mister Laheer's feeling. Why do you not play from the other side of the table? Why must you always stand next to me? Hello. The trouble up there? I have faced my bed, sir, so let's go and see. I'll ask you. So why do you play here beside me? I'm afraid I don't see any reason why I can't play wherever I. Swear she are. You broke on my luck. Ever since you come to the table, I've done nothing but rules. Please do move away. I'll move away yourself if you don't like my company. Heinrich, why do you not stop now? You've already lost more than we can afford. One more choice, sir. I can win it all back if only this young man will move away. Why should my husband move? He's had a bad run of luck too. I must stop you, sir, because I've lost everything.
I hope you're satisfied, mister American. You've broken my luck in ruin. I hope that you and your turn will be ruined. Heinrich, kind of pray for me. I've never heard such rubbish in my life. Were you listening to him, sir? No. I've never heard such rubbish in my life. Were you listening to him, sir? I heard his last few remarks, mister Gilbert. Roger Gilbert. And this is my wife, Helen. How do you do? My name is Holmes and this is my friend, doctor Watson. How do you do? How do you do? Didn't you think his remarks were in a lot of place, doctor? I certainly did, missus Gilbert. I don't see how I can possibly blame your husband for his run of bad luck. I didn't like the look on his face as he left the table, though. Is there any idea who he is? His name is Shnaeman. He's staying at the same hotel as we are. I've never spoken to him, but I've heard him being paged there. Well, you shouldn't gamble unless you can afford to lose. I'm losing darling and I can't afford it. Oh, but I can let you have more money. You know that. No, Helen. I may have married an artist, but I'm not going to use a fortune to gamble with.
I'll lose my own money and then I'll quit.
[00:06:48] Unknown:
You lost it, Watson? Yes, Holmes. This time I know that number 10 is gonna come up. It's got to.
[00:07:10] Unknown:
I've lost again, Donna. Helen, missus, my bad night. Why don't you stop now, dear? Holmes, I've made CHF350.
[00:07:18] Unknown:
On this straw of the wheel, old fellow. But as you've lost some CHF500 doing it, I can't say that your profits stagger me. Oh, mister Holmes. I can see that you're no gambler. I'm afraid not, mister Gilbert. Say that Holmes, you may not like roulette. You've taken a good many chances in your life with long odds against you too. Nevertheless, old chap in the sense that mister Gilbert means it, I am not a gambler. Oh, I see. Hey. What's the commotion over there? A German
[00:07:59] Unknown:
What happened, madam? It is my husband. Is he old? I just found him lying out in the garden. Please come with me at once, gentlemen.
[00:08:07] Unknown:
Of course, Wilbur, madam. What seems to be the matter with him? Air doctor.
[00:08:10] Unknown:
I think he is dead. He's lying by that tree, doctor.
[00:08:26] Unknown:
Please see if you can help him. Somebody else seems to be on the scene before us.
[00:08:30] Unknown:
Who you, sir? I am Monsieur Chevre, director of the casino. Do any of you know this poor man? I am his wife. Is he?
[00:08:38] Unknown:
Is he dead? I am I am afraid so, madam. Let me look at him. I'm a doctor. Was your husband gambling in the casino tonight, madam? Yeah. He was. Poor Heinrich. He lose everything that we have. I'm afraid he is dead, madam. Shock to the heart. Oh, to leap of gut.
[00:08:56] Unknown:
Suicide, Watson? Yeah. Looks like it.
[00:09:01] Unknown:
Yeah. Powder burns on the shirt front, revolver touched in the right hand, fingers in a natural position. The angle of the wound settles it. Obviously, self inflicted. I missed you as you slipped out of the casino. What's wrong with it? I'm afraid he's dead, mister Gilbert. Yes. He committed suicide.
[00:09:18] Unknown:
I hope, young man, that you are satisfied. All night you brought him bad luck. He asked you to move away. He asked you to move away. He asked All
[00:09:20] Unknown:
night you brought him bad luck. He asked you to move away from him to change his luck, but no, you could not do it. Oh, Frau Schneemann, I'm terribly sorry, but I really don't see how you can blame me. I do blame you. And I also blame you, mister Chevre. Me? But what have I done, madame? Why do you let a man lose all his money at your tables? Is life so cheap to you? Only money so important that you cannot close the tables to someone before he's gone? Madame,
[00:09:45] Unknown:
I am all sympathy for you in your tragic loss. But the casino cannot be held responsible. If your husband could not afford to gamble, then he should not come here. How are we to know the financial limitations of, of our customers? You said that your husband lost everything you had tonight, madam. Yeah. Everything.
[00:10:02] Unknown:
Then how do you account for the sheaf of bank notes in his breast pocket? Good lord. Must be several thousand francs, sir. Then he wasn't ruined. And his suicide, therefore, cannot be blamed on his losses at my casino, madame. How do you account for this money, Frauleiman? Well, I do not understand.
[00:10:19] Unknown:
Heinrich kept nothing from me. I know that he had not so much money on him that he started tonight.
[00:10:25] Unknown:
Well, why do you all look at me like that? Is it that you think? You think that But why don't she's painted? I've got her. Please. Just get her her to her room. You can take her to my suite in the casino. No. Let's take her to the hotel. My wife will look after her. Poor woman, she's had a dreadful shock. She can probably do with another woman's company. That's very considerate of you, mister Gilbert. Where are you staying? At the Hotel Creon. It's quite near here. I'll get a cabin while I'm doing that, Watson. See if you can revive her, William. Missus
[00:10:56] Unknown:
Then we'll take her to the Hotel Creon.
[00:11:02] Unknown:
Very kind of you, missus Gilbert, to let us bring the poor lady into your suite. But the least I can do in spite of what she said about Roger bringing her husband bad luck. I'm sure she'll need your help when she wakes up, Helen. Yes. I think you'll find that she'll sleep for some hours. I gave her a strong sedative. Oh, we were just about to have a drink, gentlemen. Do you care to join us? Oh, thank you, sir. Well, that'd be very nice, mister Gilbert. Roger was just telling me that quite a large sum of money was found on Harold Shaberman's body, mister Holmes? Yes, missus Gilbert.
[00:11:27] Unknown:
Several thousand francs. It's really puzzling, Holmes. Why should a man commit suicide with so much money on him? I think the answer is obvious.
[00:11:35] Unknown:
He didn't. What on earth do you mean? Well, the money was placed there after he had shot himself. The bank notes were in his breast pocket, if you remember, and hardly the usual place to carry money. Though it is the easiest pocket for someone to insert it without disturbing the body. But why on earth should someone place money on him after his suicide? To prevent the casino from getting a bad name, I've heard of it being done on several similar occasions.
[00:12:00] Unknown:
It gives the impression that the unfortunate victim had other motives than gambling losses to a country's suicide. Wait, Scott. You mean that one of the casino employers found the body laying there and slipped the money in his breast pocket before we arrived on the scene? As you know, my dear Watson, I'm not a gambling man, but I'll lay you a hundred to one. That is what happened. Well, that's a new one. Well, here are your drinks gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you so much. Say Helen, Mr. Holmes has given me a brainwave. Another one? What is it this time, Roger? Now I've been losing very heavily tonight. Roger, I told you. If you need money, I'll be only But I don't.
[00:12:33] Unknown:
I've got a scheme for making some. I'm going to gamble again tonight after dinner. If I lose, here's what I'll do. I'll stain my shirt front with red ink, walk out in the grounds, fire a shot, and lie down as though I'm dead. I'll wait for someone to come along and stuff my pockets full of bank notes. Not a bad idea, Mr. Gilbert. I think it's a darn good one. What do you say, Mr. Holmes? It's a whimsical one at any rate. Who knows?
[00:12:57] Unknown:
You might even be successful. Roger, you're not really going to do it, are you? Sure.
[00:13:02] Unknown:
Perhaps I'll get some of my losses back that way. Well, let's drink to it, gentlemen. At least I may have hit upon an idea of making money.
[00:13:28] Unknown:
My dear Watson, you will have to work hard at your practice when you get back to England. Your infallible system appears to be extremely fallible. And you have to follow who told me about it, said it's good and miss. It's just a matter of doubling mistakes each time you'll know. Oh, my dear fellow. I've been studying your system, but I can tell you a really infallible way of making money at roulette. You can? What is it? Well, own the gambling house and operate the tables yourself. The odds would be all in your favor. Oh, what a brilliant suggestion. Not
[00:13:58] Unknown:
gambling for tonight, Watson? Nearly 11:00. No. I think so. Let's take a stroll around the other table, shall we?
[00:14:05] Unknown:
Other way, old fellow, the young American, mister Gilbert, was losing heavily again tonight. He was? I wonder if he'll try that trick that he threatened, the one with the red ink and the shot in the night. I should be at all surprised. It's a matter of, interest. I saw him leave the tables about half an hour ago.
[00:14:21] Unknown:
Here comes his wife on the arm of mister Chevre, the director of the casino. Agree with you. Good evening, missus Gilbert. Monsieur? Bonsoir, monsieur. Hello, mister Holmes. Doctor Watson. Watson. Mister Chevre is giving me a personally conducted tour of the casino. It's quite fascinating. And it is quite fascinating for me to have so beautiful a woman on my arm by myself.
[00:14:40] Unknown:
I know that I am the envy of all the men in the room. Oh, stop flattering me so much. I'm not used to it. Missus Gilbert, how is, Fraus Schneemann? She seems much better. She wakened an hour ago and insisted on going back to her own room. I wanted her to spend the night with us in our suite, but she wouldn't hear her. Do you think I should drop in and see her before I go to bed? Oh, you have finished the jambling for tonight perhaps, doctor? No. Perhaps about it, missus Chevalier. I've had a bad run at the tables. Oh, I am so sorry. Has anyone seen Roger? He left the table about half an hour ago, missus Gilbert. After doing as I did and losing quite heavily. Very lost again, did he? I wonder if he'll try that, new system he was talking about. We were just discussing that possibility ourselves, missus Gilbert. Missus Gilbert. Missus
[00:15:23] Unknown:
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[00:16:12] Unknown:
The pet's name and you shouldn't have left your hotel, you know. It is too late to worry for me here, doctor. It is for missus Gilbert now that you should worry. What do you mean, madame? Well, I went back just now to where poor Heinrich died. And there lying in the glass, I saw another body. I was too shocked to go too close, but I am quite sure that I recognize your husband, Mrs. Gilbert. Oh, Doctor. Watson, she's ruined Rogers' trick. And you have taken fright and bolted by the time we get there. Doctor. Bibb, let's go at once and find out, shall we?
[00:16:50] Unknown:
He he hasn't gone. He's he's still lying there. It's a most convincing spectacle.
[00:16:55] Unknown:
That red ink really does look like blood.
[00:16:58] Unknown:
Yes. And blood sometimes looks like red ink. Mister Gilbert.
[00:17:04] Unknown:
Roger, get up. The joke's spoiled. Roger,
[00:17:09] Unknown:
get up. I'm afraid that's impossible, missus Gilbert. He's dead.
[00:17:23] Unknown:
Doctor. Watson's story will be continued in just a second, which is all the time I need to tell you that the easiest way I know to transform a simple meal into a feast is to serve that meal together with Petri California Sauternes. Petri Sauternes is a delicate white wine that's the perfect companion for chicken or turkey. Turkey, ah, yes. Turkey and Petri Sauternes. That's the heart of any Thanksgiving dinner. Look, why not make this Thanksgiving dinner the best one you ever had? Give it the air of a banquet. Giving dinner the best one you ever had? Give it the air of a banquet. Serve it with Petri Sauternes.
And when you buy that Sauternes or any wine for your Thanksgiving dinner, whatever you do, look for the letters p e t r I because a Petri wine is always a good wine.
[00:18:10] Unknown:
Well, doctor, so the young Americans joke turned out to be another tragedy. Yes, mister Bartel. The poor fellow was lying there dead with a bullet wound in the heart and a great splash of blood staining the whiteness of his shirt front. What happened next? Mister Chevre, director of the casino, took the distraught widow away from the scene while Holmes and I examined the body closely. Within a few minutes, we were joined by inspector, Ganive of the French police. As we stood there in the moonlight, the sounds of music could be heard from the casino.
It was hard to believe that two men had died in that lovely garden since the moon had risen.
[00:18:53] Unknown:
Monsieur Holmes, you and doctor Watson have concluded your examination? Yes, Inspector Ganiver. Would you favor me with your observations? You say that you are certain that this is not another suicide? I'm sure of it, inspector. Look at the wound.
[00:19:06] Unknown:
The bullet entered the body at a direct right angle, whereas a self inflicted shot is always found obliquely. Yes. That is so. Then, you suggest that this man was shot from above as he lay on the ground pretending to be dead. I'm convinced of it. Why, monsieur? Well, for two reasons. It's impossible to be sure without a laboratory test. I'm certain that beneath those bloodstains are stains of red ink.
[00:19:28] Unknown:
Look for yourself, inspector. Mhmm. Yes. Indeed, it does look like it. What is your other reason for being certain that this man was shot as he lay here pretending dead? I'll show him the bank notes, Watson. Here you are, Inspector. We found them
[00:19:41] Unknown:
stuffed in his breast pocket. So
[00:19:44] Unknown:
bank notes with a bullet hole through the middle of them. Very illuminated. Tell me, gentlemen, how many people knew of this, this little plot you have told me about, this plan of the dead man's to pretend to be shot? Just three people, inspector. Doctor Watson, myself, and missus Gilbert. Hello? Then the answer is obvious. Obvious. You and your friend are innocent. It must be the wife who killed him. No one else knew of the plan. I'm not so sure of that. Rauschneemann, the dead German's widow, was in the next room when Gilbert told us about his plan.
[00:20:12] Unknown:
She might have heard, though I could swear that she was asleep.
[00:20:15] Unknown:
I gave her a very strong sleeping draft. From what you have told me of her husband's suicide, she might easily have had a motive for murdering this man. Come come come gentlemen. Surely it's obvious who murdered mister Gilbert? Who, Monsieurons? Certainly, one of the two widows. Since there seems to be some doubt in your minds, I suggest we return to the casino. I can promise you the answer to your question within a very few minutes.
[00:20:48] Unknown:
Well, mister Chevre, now that we're all assembled in your office, I shall sit down quietly and let Inspector Gannivey conduct his examination. No. No. No, monsieur Holmes. No. You have handled the case so far. Please to cons continue it to the end. Yes, monsieur Holmes.
[00:21:01] Unknown:
I should appreciate it. Be happy that you're sitting here. Very well, gentlemen. It won't take me long. First name on. Yeah. Holmes.
[00:21:10] Unknown:
What time did you leave your hotel tonight? Well, I do not know what time it was. Well, what made you leave it? I could not sleep. I knew that they had taken poor Heinrich's body away, but I felt that I must walk back there. It was the last place I saw him alive. How close did you come to mister Gilbert's body when you saw it lying there? Oh, close enough to see who it was. Then I ran into the casino to tell his wife I knew what had happened. How did you know? You say you, didn't come close to the body. I could tell by every line of the body as a lady. I could tell because I knew that poor Heinrich Stead would not be avenged.
[00:21:43] Unknown:
Thank you, Farfetch. That will be all you may go. Monsieur Holmes, she has no alibi. Surely you should to come pray. If I'm to conduct this investigation, I must do it my own way. Madame, Monsieur Holmes. Please continue.
[00:21:54] Unknown:
You may go, Frau Schneider.
[00:21:58] Unknown:
Missus Gilbert? Yes, mister Holmes. Where were you prior to our meeting at the casino tonight just before we discovered your husband's body?
[00:22:06] Unknown:
After I left the hotel, I walked over here along the seafront.
[00:22:10] Unknown:
Can anyone verify that statement? I suppose not. I didn't meet anyone that I knew. And what did you do when you arrived at the casino?
[00:22:18] Unknown:
I played a little Chemin affair. A few moments later, mister Chevrolet came over to the table and asked if he might escort me over the club. Ten minutes after that, we walked into you and doctor Watson. That is quite true, mister Holmes. I can swear to it. Thank you, missus Gilbert. I'm sorry to distress you with these questions. You may go. I'll wait outside, mister Holmes. I must know what happened. Wait for me, madame.
[00:22:40] Unknown:
I shall join you in a few minutes in escort you home.
[00:22:44] Unknown:
Oh, well, another suspect for the poor alibi alibi. Hey, Gallivert? I must say, monsieur Holmes, your methods puzzled me. It seems to me that both those women should be watched. Yes. I agree with you, Inspector Holmes. Please don't worry, Inspector. I've asked two of your plainclothes men to keep an eye on the ladies. And now, monsieur Chevre,
[00:23:02] Unknown:
I'd like to ask you a few questions. Ask me any questions you wish, monsieur Holmes.
[00:23:06] Unknown:
Thank you. You will agree that it is the custom of the casino to put money on the bodies of suicides after their death, to give the impression that gambling gambling losses were not responsible for the tragedy. Well, I I I do not think Oh, come now, chevary. I know that is a fact as well as you do. Exactly. Now, on those rather gruesome occasions, whose responsibility is it to secrete the money, yours, or do you entrust the matter to an underling? I do it myself. I see. Did you place the money on Herr Schneemann tonight? Yes, monsieur. I did. And did you also perform the same service on the body of mister Gilbert? No.
[00:23:41] Unknown:
I knew nothing of that death until a German lady, Faust Schlehmann, come running into the casino. Excuse me interrupting, monsieur. Of course, inspector. What is it? I think that you are wasting time. It is obvious that madame Gilbert committed the crime. She knew of her husband's plot. She had no alibi and she had the motive. For is not
[00:23:59] Unknown:
marriage itself the greatest of all motives for murder? Oh, my dear inspector. How very cynical. Madame Dubert did not kill her husband. I know it. And what is your opinion, Watson? Well, it's a German woman. She had no alibi either. And remember, she was half mad with with grief. Mister Scheffroy, you say that you know missus Gilbert is not guilty.
[00:24:19] Unknown:
How do you know? I was with her myself at the time the murder was committed.
[00:24:22] Unknown:
Oh, indeed. How very interesting. And what time was the murder committed? Well,
[00:24:29] Unknown:
it it was it it was Our investigations have never established what time the murder was committed, mister Chevre? The murder
[00:24:34] Unknown:
was committed, monsieur Chevre. I'm afraid you've walked into my trap.
[00:24:38] Unknown:
You've given yourself away. Right. It's not Chevre. It was you. Chevre, I've known you a good many years, and this is going to be a hard thing to do. I am going to arrest you. Oh, no. You're not tell me?
[00:24:46] Unknown:
Put on that revolver, mister. Do not be frightened, doctor. I am not going to shoot you. Chevre,
[00:24:53] Unknown:
why did you murder Roger Gilbert tonight? Surely, you know that too, mister Holmes.
[00:24:59] Unknown:
Because I am in love with his wife. She's young, beautiful, and rich. It did not occur to me until I saw the young fool lying there tonight pretending to be dead. In my profession, it is natural that I should carry a revolver. What was simpler? Mister Gilbert gave me the perfect opportunity. I I could not resist it. Put down that revolver, Chebrey. Why are you all so frightened? Surely, you know how I am going to use it this time. I think so, monsieur,
[00:25:29] Unknown:
but it's a coward's way out.
[00:25:32] Unknown:
What an unreceptive remark for such a perceptive man. No. No. All my life, I have been a gambler. I gambled tonight for the highest stakes of all, and and I lost. No. No. I am not afraid to pay for my losses.
[00:25:51] Unknown:
I will form a ship. An extraordinary case, Holmes. I never suspected Chevre. And I, old chap, suspected him from the beginning. Well, I wasn't the only one who was stupid anyway.
[00:26:14] Unknown:
Inspector Ganiver thought it was the wife. True. Very puzzling conclusion for a detective inspector to arrive in. It won't seem logical enough to me at the time. No. No. No. My dear Watson, cold logic should have told you otherwise. Roger Gilbert has been losing heavily and had planned this hoax. He obviously had no money on him. Therefore, the money was planted in his pocket by Chevre. After he shot him? No, my dear fellow. Before. Before? The bullet holes through the banknotes provided that. Now, had the money been put there innocently, Gilbert would have, well, you know, come back to life as soon as the person placing it there had left.
[00:26:50] Unknown:
He would not have remained lying on the ground for a murderer to find him. Then Chevre must have bent over him as he lay there, placed the money in his breast pocket, and then fired. Precisely, Watson. Well, I must say you solved it very neatly. You've told Inspector Ganaway that you wanted no credit in the case. Naturally,
[00:27:09] Unknown:
publicity would be unfavorable. If you remember, no one is supposed to know that we're in the South Of France. I'm certain that the inspector learned a few tips about detection tonight. Possibly, and I hope that, you have learned a few things about gambling. How do you mean, Holmes? Well, you're backing the wrong color. A gambler is usually superstitious and superstition well, I should have told you what color to follow tonight. I still don't understand you, Holmes. I was playing number 10. Exactly. Number 10 is black.
You should have followed a red color tonight, Othello, a color of red ink, red ink, and blood.
[00:27:54] Unknown:
Say doctor, that was a swell story. I didn't know you like to play roulette. Well You know, I figured out a system for roulette.
[00:28:02] Unknown:
It's like yours. Every time you lose, you double your money and keep doubling until you win. Oh, it's a great system, mister Bartell. Is there any one thing wrong with it? What's that? You usually go broke before you win. Mister, look, look, take take my advice. Don't gamble. You can't beat the laws of chance.
[00:28:18] Unknown:
But suppose I bet on a sure thing. Like what for instance? Oh, like the fact that Petri wine is always good wine. It is, you know. Because the Petri family has been making wine for generations. They've been handing down from father to son, from father to son, the art of turning luscious sun ripened grapes into delicious fragrant wine. Ever since the Petri family started their business way back in the eighteen hundreds, they've been perfecting the art of winemaking. That's why Petri wine is always good wine. The Petri family took time to bring you good wine.
So no matter what type wine you prefer, why not take a few seconds of your time to look for the letters p e t r I. They spell delicious wine, Petri wine.
[00:29:06] Unknown:
Well, Doctor. Watson, what new Sherlock Holmes story are you going to tell us next week? Next week, mister Barthel, I'm going to tell you of a strange adventure that Sherlock Holmes and I had when we were instructed on Avon many years ago. It concerns an actor, a mysterious boating accident, and several dead butterflies. Sounds good, doctor. I'll see you then. Oh, fine. But now now, don't forget next week, we're going to broadcast our program from the Paramount Theater in Hollywood for the Victory Loan Drive. So if any of our friends are going to be in Hollywood, we'd love to see them there. Just buy a Victory Bond at any store or bank on Hollywood Boulevard and in return, you will be given your ticket of admission.
Better hurry up though before all the seats are gone. Let's really buy lots of those Victory Bonds. Let's finish the job.
[00:30:00] Unknown:
Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in the Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Study in Scarlet. Music is by Dean Foster. Mister Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and mister Bruce through the courtesy of Universal Pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. This is Harry Bartell saying good night for the Petri family. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studio.
This is the mutual broadcasting system.
