In this thrilling episode, we delve into a New Year's Eve mystery with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they travel to Dunbar Castle. Invited by Sir Walter Dunbar, Holmes and Watson find themselves embroiled in a family drama involving a long-awaited inheritance locked in an iron box. As the clock ticks towards midnight, the box is set to be opened, but a shocking revelation about the leap year laws threatens to delay the inheritance for another four years. Tensions rise, and a murder mystery unfolds when Sir Walter is seemingly pushed out of a window into the moat below.
Holmes, ever the detective, devises a plan to uncover the truth behind the mysterious box and the alleged murder. As accusations fly among the family and guests, Holmes reveals the true contents of the box, uncovering a hidden manuscript by Sir Walter Scott, which promises to be more valuable than the gold itself. The episode concludes with a toast to the New Year and the resolution of the Dunbar family's troubles, thanks to Holmes' brilliant deduction and the unexpected treasure.
(01:01) Introduction to the New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
(03:30) The Mystery of the Dunbar Inheritance
(08:21) A Gathering at Dunbar Castle
(13:04) The Leap Year Dilemma
(17:12) A Suspicious Incident
(24:03) The Unveiling of the Dunbar Secret
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Unknown:
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[00:01:02] Unknown:
This episode from the life of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by short wave and through the worldwide facilities of the armed forces radio service. Petri wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. 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 at master detective, Sherlock Holmes. Well, this is it, New Year's Eve. And I wish you could be here with us this evening so we could toast each other with a glass of petri california port. As you know, port wine has long been a favorite wine for celebrating a happy occasion.
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[00:02:38] Unknown:
Good evening doctor. Good evening mister Bartel. Drop your usual chair. Thank you. That's it. Well, did you enjoy the Christmas holidays?
[00:02:47] Unknown:
Well, I've I've had a whale of a time. Thank you. But I don't think I can face a turkey or a mince pie for at least another year.
[00:02:54] Unknown:
How about you, doctor? Oh, I had a very pleasant week too, my boy. Partiers, visitors, and a flattering number of Christmas messages to be answered. Oh, I say you got a new pipe. Is that a Christmas present? Yes. New pipe, new tobacco pouch, and a pound of my favorite tobacco. All of them sent to me from London by an old client and a friend of mine, sir, Ian Dunbar.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
An old client,
[00:03:16] Unknown:
Well, do you mean he was one of your patients or was he someone that you and the great Sherlock Holmes helped? The latter, mister Bartell. As a matter of fact, it was receiving this gift that reminded me of the story I've decided to tell you tonight. The story in which Ian Dunbar played a prominent father. And how did it begin? The day before New Year's Eve in 1899, Sherlock Holmes and I sat in opposite corners of a first class railway carriage as we sped towards Edinburgh in the flying Scotsman. What took you and Sherlock Holmes up there, doctor? It started off as a holiday visit, mister Bartell. My old friend, sir Walter Dunbar, had asked Holmes and me to spend a few days with him at Dunbar Castle about 20 miles outside Edinburgh.
After we left King's Cross Station, Holmes, his sharp eager face framed in his deers stocking cap dipped into the bundle of fresh papers which we brought with him. We left Bedford far behind us before he thrust the last one of them under the seat, cleaned across and offered me his guitar. Careful cigar Watson. No, I'll I'll stick to the pipe. Flying Scotsman's living up to its name. They're going splendidly.
[00:04:27] Unknown:
Our personal rate is 53 and a half miles an hour. Oh, I haven't noticed the quarter mile post. Nor have I but the telegraph posts on this line are 60 yards apart. With the aid of a watch, the calculation is a simple one. What's in my dear fellow? We have several hours ahead of us. Now, tell me more about sir Walter Dunbar. I have a feeling that he is in some kind of trouble. But you haven't wanted to talk about him. Well, it's not exactly trouble Holmes. There's a strange problem that confronts the Dunbar. There's a problem
[00:04:53] Unknown:
that'll be settled at midnight tomorrow. Oh, indeed. Night of new year's eve, Yes, exactly. But, to really appreciate the story I have to begin by telling you the death of old sir Thomas Dunbar. The father of the present baronet I suppose. Yes. He was severely wounded in Waterloo though he managed to last out long enough to get back to Dunbar Castle. The story goes that as he lay there on his death bed, he told his wife of his plan with her unborn son.
[00:05:24] Unknown:
Dinner, grave lass. I'll fetch the baronet here from Waterloo. What if I fetch the mortal wound as well? Oh, hush, lass. I'm not afraid to die. All that niggles me is that I shall never see the child you bear. They say, what will Scott not coming yet? Can he visit the deathbed of his old friend? Oh, who's there? I thought you were sending Murdoch. Hi, Thomas. It's me. I'm leaving an unborn son behind me when I die. Now I don't trust women or children or banks for that matter, but the best part of my wealth and gold and the big iron box you'll find under the bed, the money's there.
I have something else for that rainy day. You have to keep that box in trust for me, Sandy. You can turn it over to my boy on the New Year's Eve before his 20 birthday, and he'll be a man and wise enough to know how to use it. You understand, Sandy? I don't. But supposing your berm's a girl. A girl? I tell you he'll be a boy, and we'll name him Walter after my good friend,
[00:06:32] Unknown:
sir Walter Scott.
[00:06:43] Unknown:
Pretty interesting story Watson and that child of course is the gentleman we are going to see now, Sir Walter Dunbar. Exactly. And the first baronet was a friend of Sir Walter Scott while his son can boast of your acquaintance. My,
[00:06:55] Unknown:
the family singularly rich in literary friendships. That's not very funny Holmes. To continue, I suppose you can guess what happened. Sir Thomas carefully drew up a document to specify. The new year's eve of all the baronet's twenty first birthday and the poor child was born on February. It was a leap year.
[00:07:15] Unknown:
So poor sir Walter is still waiting for his iron box full of gold. Yes. He'll be 84 next year and yet legally
[00:07:22] Unknown:
with only one birthday every four years in the eyes of the law he'll at last be
[00:07:27] Unknown:
21. Not most amusing situation though I'm afraid sir Walter finds it far from entertaining.
[00:07:32] Unknown:
The lawyers must have been extremely scrupulous and abiding by the letter of the document. Yes, old Sandy Murdoch is dead now of course but he too is a great grandson William Murdoch who still handles the Dunbar Estate.
[00:07:44] Unknown:
He'll be at the castle tonight to formally hand over the iron box. I'm delighted you accepted the holiday invitation at sir Walter. My dear fellow, I've needed a rest but, I've always loathed too strict a one. This situation may pose a nice little problem for me. Problem? Yes, I'm reasonably certain that the aegis of Dunbar will not get his iron box full of gold on this new year's eve either but we shall see old fellow, we shall see.
[00:08:22] Unknown:
Doctor Watson, I'm glad to see you and mister Holmes here at the customer. Thank you my boy. Holmes, this is Ian Dunbar, sir Walter grandson. How do you do Mr Dunbar? I'm very proud to meet you Mr Holmes. I've heard a lot about you. A grandfather will be down in a few moments.
[00:08:36] Unknown:
Let's go into the library, shall we? I imagine Sir Walter is quite excited about tonight's sermon, isn't he? Wouldn't you be if you'd waited 60
[00:08:45] Unknown:
inheritance? Thank the lord I have the foresight to be born on the prosaic date of August.
[00:08:51] Unknown:
Even if your grandfather's death you would be the next Benedict I take it. Yes mister Holmes. You see my father was killed two months ago at Maffetick. Yes, I read about it in the papers my boy. I'm I'm very sorry. Thank you doctor.
[00:09:03] Unknown:
The opening of the box isn't going to be the only ceremony at midnight. Dorothy and I are announcing our engagement. Dorothy? Dorothy Small. She He and her father are staying here too. My congratulations. Yes indeed dear, indeed mine too. Thank you. It's it's been quite a battle with her father though. He's a businessman and isn't impressed with titles, when they aren't accompanied by a suitable income. But when we told him about the inheritance, he relented and gave his consent. Ah, here's Dorothy now.
[00:09:32] Unknown:
Dorothy darling, I want you to meet two friends of mine, mister Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson. How do you do? Now how do you do, miss Molly? How are you, my dear? From what this young man's been telling us, I I gather that congratulations are in order. Thank you. I finally persuaded father that Ian would make a worthy son-in-law.
[00:09:50] Unknown:
For a while, I was afraid we'd have to elope for Gretna Green, leaving a cottage on bread and cheese and law, but braves of parental wrath just as they do in the storybooks.
[00:10:00] Unknown:
Oh, sir Walter. There you are.
[00:10:02] Unknown:
What's up, my dear boy? How are you? And this must be your friend, Sherlock Holmes. How do you do, sir? What that? We're a will for a young nipper who'll be 21 at midnight.
[00:10:13] Unknown:
Oh, gentlemen, may I introduce mister Herbert Snow? I do, sir. I believe that we have congratulate you on the engagement of your daughter. That was supposed to remain a secret until midnight.
[00:10:24] Unknown:
The Dunbar box was finally opened. You're gonna be grouchy, Herbert. The children are in love, and I'm going to settle money on Ian. And it's New Year's Eve. Let's enter into the spirit of the occasion. Remove the glasses, Ian. I've had some bottles of my special pride for now. It's the finest port in Scotland, the cream of Dunbar. My father laid the first bottle down the year before I was born, and a drink of the brew will surely warm the cockers of your heart. Well, my mouse watching already, sir Walter. When is this, lawyer fellow, young Murdoch, getting here? Oh, any moment, Herbert. As soon as he arrives, we'll have dinner, and then we'll be ready for the evening ceremony. Are you bringing the famous iron box with him, sir Walter? If he doesn't, they won't get any dinner, Holmes. Ian, pass the glasses around, my boy. Ah, there you are, my god. Good evening, sorter. Oh, you've got the box where you are, see. Now the party's complete. Oh, let me introduce you. Miss Small, her father, mister Small, my grandson, Ian, you know. Mister Sherlock Holmes, doctor Watson. How do you do, isn't it? I'm sorry I'm late, sir Walter. My train was delayed. Oh, that's alright, madoc. You're here, and you brought the box. That's all that matters. Here, give our young lawyer a drink. Here, I'll help you pour it. I must say that this is our exciting homes, a famous iron box with its inheritance of gold. Yes. And from the size of the box, with a rough guess, I should estimate its cubic content in gold at around 5,000.
[00:11:43] Unknown:
Not a vast sum perhaps to a businessman like mister Small for the windfall to an impetuous Scottish baron. A strong young man, mister Murdoch. How do you mean strong, hon? A box that size full of golden sovereigns would weigh considerable amounts and yet the lawyer carried it single handed. I know that we're all
[00:12:02] Unknown:
assembled, I'm going to propose a toast. Though it's still some oars off yet, let's drink to the new year. It means a lot to some of us. To 1900.
[00:12:11] Unknown:
'19 hundred.
[00:12:13] Unknown:
We should toast more than just 19 hundreds of water. We should drink to the new century that's about to begin. Good idea, Dorothea. I'm afraid that wouldn't be quite appropriate, miss Small. To be accurate, the twentieth century
[00:12:25] Unknown:
won't begin until January 2000 and not 1900.
[00:12:30] Unknown:
Of course. That's it. Dorothy, I'm afraid your wedding can't take place for some time yet. Father, what are you talking about? I read an article that got in the other day that said just the same thing as you doctor Watson and what's more it said something even more important. It said that 1900
[00:12:47] Unknown:
is not a leap year. Oh rubbish. Leap year comes every four years. There was one in 1896 then obviously 1900 is one. I think mister Small may be right. What do you say, mister Holmes? Do you know? Well, I hope no one would bring up this point, but it's the little problem I referred to on the train, my dear Watson. Holmes, for heaven's sake, answer. Is 1900
[00:13:08] Unknown:
a leap year or no? I'm afraid it's not sir Walter. No. Because of a slight imbalance that would otherwise be produced in the calendar, of the even century years only those divisible by 400 are leap years. In other words, 1600 was a leap year and the year February will be a leap year but, 1800 and 1900
[00:13:29] Unknown:
are not leap years. Then you have no birthday next year, Sir Walter, and I'm afraid I can't open the box tonight. And the Dunbars won't get their inheritance. And you, my dear. Don't marry for a few more years. I won't allow you to marry a pauper. Mister Holmes, are you sure of your fact? I'm very much afraid that I am, young man. Oh, this is terrible.
[00:13:46] Unknown:
I can't stand anymore. No. No. No. Don't take it too bad. This is Walter. Here here's a here. Drink this.
[00:13:53] Unknown:
That's it. After all, you only have to wait another four years. Another four years? At my age, young man. At my age. Oh, no. I shall never live that long. What is it, Angus? Dinner is prepared, sir Walter. You can solve it as soon as you're ready, sir.
[00:14:14] Unknown:
As you're ready, sir. What a what a miserable meal, Holmes. The Walters come to his room, the young lovers are kneeling in tears, and Small and the lawyer, Murdoch, seem to be positively gloating. Yes. The most depressing atmosphere in which to welcome the new year, but let us at least make the best of it.
[00:14:37] Unknown:
I think I'll go and have a talk with sir Walter. And you, my dear chap, why not try and cheer up the young folks?
[00:14:43] Unknown:
Some of your experiences in India may make them their minds off the bubble. Yes. Quite no, dear. I'll join you in the library. Call me few if you want me home. Ah, there you are, my dears. Hello, doctor White. All alone in front of the fire. I'm afraid we're not in very good spirits. Oh, nevertheless, I'll sit down here and join you if you don't mind. Misery loves company, you know.
[00:15:07] Unknown:
So so very kind, doctor. Not at all. I was just trying to persuade Ian to elope with me. But he's being most ungallant. He won't even consider it. How can I, darling?
[00:15:16] Unknown:
I've got under £200 a year in my own right.
[00:15:19] Unknown:
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[00:15:33] Unknown:
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[00:16:24] Unknown:
How could we live on that? I was counting on the money the grandfather was going to give us to get me started. Now now now, miss Small a little early. You talk to Brett the Green and bread and cheese and loving a cottage. Yes. There's a lot to be said for it, you know. A lot to be said for it. Yes, doctor. But have you ever tried it? Not literally, my boy, but, I will tell you that when Mary, my wife and I were first married, I had very little money. In fact my income was just about the sum that you mentioned and we were very happy.
[00:16:56] Unknown:
But you have a profession doctor. Look at me. I've been trained for nothing except to be led of Dunbar Castle. I can't support a wife on tradition. But you're young, Ian. You can get some kind of position. I'm sure you can. Of course. Of course. As a matter of fact, I think that Holmes, what is it? What's wrong? Devil's work of foot, Watson. Come with me, old fellow, and you, mister Dunbar. Mister Holmes, what's happening? It's Sir Walter. I went to his room. It was in darkness, but in the moonlight, I saw two figures struggling by the open casement. One of them was Sir Walter. As I entered, he disappeared from sight. His attacker had pushed him out of the window into the moat. Okay. The other man got away in the darkness. We need to get lanterns and go out to the moat at once. Though I'm very much afraid, Mr. Dunbar, that your grandfather is beyond our help.
[00:17:45] Unknown:
Doctor Watson will be back in just a second, so I'd just like to remind you that, if you want to serve a wine over the holidays, that you're sure the ladies will enjoy, serve Petri California Muscatel. Petri Muscatel is a golden wine with a wonderful flavor. The flavor of big plump muscat grapes. And you know what a flavor that is. I'm sure you'll find that Petri Muscatel is the favorite wine of all women, just as Petri Port is the favourite wine with men. And incidentally, if you're not sure which to get, Petri Muscatel or Petri Port, don't buy one, buy two. Get them both and you'll be sure to please everyone.
Now to get back to our story,
[00:18:25] Unknown:
someone had pushed poor old sir Walter out of his bedroom window and enter the moat below. Isn't that right doctor Watson? Yes. Mister Bartell, of course we grabbed lanterns as fast as we could and rushed outside, but it was a hopeless task. The water was eight or 10 feet deep and it seemed obvious that the elderly sir elder, sir Walter, wouldn't have a chance of saving himself. But we searched on the thicker bobbing lanterns, the scurrying figures in the frosty moonlight, forming a weird for your sake sir, as well as the Dunbar. The scandal can't touch me or Dorothy over this. Her engagement was never announced. Thank you. And it's a great pity sir. I should take some new blood in your family, it'd be a great improvement. You're all being confoundedly impertinent now. And you'll be confoundedly happy sir. Well Holmes, have you given up hope?
[00:19:26] Unknown:
I'm afraid we'll never find him without draggeless and grappling hooks. I have to call the police. What time is it? Sir Ian,
[00:19:34] Unknown:
you know the time? What did you call me, mister Holmes? Sir Ian. By sure. Yes. You does seem a bit premature Holmes but of course you're right. If your poor grandfather is dead mister Dunbar,
[00:19:44] Unknown:
you're the baronet now. And the time sir Iain, it's it's a quarter to twelve mister Holmes. A quarter of an hour to the new year. Sir Iain, doesn't that fact suggest something to you? Yes. Yes, it does.
[00:19:58] Unknown:
So I'm the new baronet, am I? Very well then. There'll be no more talk of the police for fifteen minutes. I want all of you to come back to the castle with me. As the last chime of midnight brings out, I shall have a statement to make. A statement that I want you all to hear.
[00:20:25] Unknown:
What she brought us all back here for home. Something very funny going on. I tell you, I don't like the look of it. And I Watson like to look at it very much. I wish you wouldn't be so dash mysterious. What are you up to? You haven't taken a step yet towards finding the murderer? Have I? And I wonder what causes the beads of perspiration on mister Small's brow? Lord, you mean that Small's I wonder what causes the singular look of apprehension on the face of Murdoch, the young lawyer. You remember of course on my remarking how easily he carried the large iron
[00:20:54] Unknown:
box. Yes. You took a strong man to throw some water out of the window. The
[00:20:59] Unknown:
new year is approaching.
[00:21:02] Unknown:
Ladies and gentlemen, in view of our recent tragedy, this is one New Year's Eve when none of us feels like song and jollity. But there still remains a ritual duty for me to perform. Mister Murdoch, open the iron box please. But but but I can't do that. It was only to be opened for your grandfather. No, mr Murdoch. The phrase was that it was to be opened on the New Year's Eve before the baronet's twenty first birthday. I am now the baronet and I shall be 21 next year on August 21. Open the box please, mister Murdoch. Din darling, how practically clever are you? Good lad, I hope you think of it. But siril Murdoch, open that box. Very well siril, but I'm afraid you're in for something of a shock.
[00:21:49] Unknown:
Great Scott, the the box is empty.
[00:21:52] Unknown:
Except for a sheet of notepaper in the bottom. What's the meaning of this murder? Read that paper so you'll understand. I owe you 4,000 sovereigns and it's signed Alexander Murdoch on behalf of Murdoch and Murdoch, lawyers.
[00:22:06] Unknown:
You'd better explain this. It's the family skeleton syrian. That notice signed by my great grandfather, the one that witnessed the original deed concerning the box. As soon as Sir Walter was born born on that February, my great grandfather realized the money wouldn't have to be produced for eighty four years. And so he stole it. He borrowed it. He always intended to pay it back, but he was never able to. When he died, he told my father of his secret. My father in turn told me. We've always planned to put back the money, Sareen, but we've never been able to. This is daylight robbery. You should prosecute the me and the firm's still in business. You can ruin them. You can sue them for every pity they have. Mr. Small,
[00:22:41] Unknown:
you've already shown a marked diversion to my family. I suggest you allow me to handle their affairs. Bravo Ian. How dare you, darling. Go to your room. No one's going to their room. No one's leaving here until the police arrive.
[00:22:54] Unknown:
I'm convinced that one of you murdered my grandfather tonight. And if you ask me, it's obvious who that someone is. Who, doctor? What's you, mister Murdoch? You came here planning to kill poor old Sir Walter because you never intended to open that box. You thought that your secret would die with him. That's a lie. I was going to tell him everything and then ask for time to pay the money. I didn't kill him. Of course he didn't. There's your murderer. You yourselfian. Father, what are you saying? I'm saying that Ian's the murderer. He saw that the box wasn't going to be open for another four years. He realized that the money couldn't marry Dorothy. So
[00:23:23] Unknown:
he killed his grandfather and then ordered the box open. You're trying to cover yourself. You pushed grandfather out of that window tonight. You thought that if he died, the box would never be opened. So Dorothy couldn't marry me. You you you can't, Watson. Gentlemen, gentlemen. Upon my soul, Holmes, you seem remarkably calm. You My dear Watson, I must say I'm
[00:23:41] Unknown:
absolutely fascinated by listening to three people accusing each other of murder and each of them producing perfectly sound motives. It's a remarkable example of the dangers of reasoning for motive alone. We should profit by experience, Watson. Mr. Holmes, how can you be so calm? There's a murderer in this room. I suppose this lady, Mr. Rhodes is getting a little out of hand, miss Small. Let's conclude it. You'd better come out now.
[00:24:03] Unknown:
What?
[00:24:04] Unknown:
Out of the street. It's moving. A happy new year to your old grandfather. To water, how am I seeing a ghost? To water, you're alright. So what kind of a game have you been playing? It's a bunny game that Holmes and I invented. You might call it forcing the issue. I was determined to have the box open before the next four years were out whilst I was still alive to look inside it. But the periphery of your family, Murdoch, has made me a very unhappy man. Sir Walter, I should pay back the money in a few years. I swear I will. It'll be too late to do me any good, but I'll take care that Ian gets it. I have half a mind to prosecute you. Grandfather, the money isn't important now that you're old. You were counting on it just the same, my boy, so that you could marry Dorothy. I know that. She'll never marry a pauper. I won't allow it. When I'm 21, you can't stop me father and I am going to marry Ian. Be quiet.
[00:24:49] Unknown:
Walter,
[00:24:51] Unknown:
it's a very unsavory business. I think that you owe us an explanation of your behavior tonight. You tell him Holmes. I fancy a weed drop of creamer dunbar watching y'all search for my body in the moat has made me thirsty. The explanation is a very simple one ladies and gentlemen.
[00:25:06] Unknown:
When you arrived here tonight mister Murdoch, I knew from the way you handled the box that it could not contain the sum of gold it was supposed to. And sir, you you suspected fraud and devised a plan to force the opening of the box. Yes. And sir Walter was an eager conspirator. Of course I was. Ian is 21 next August. Supposing, supposing I had died after he came of age and before my next birthday, four years hence, the box would never have been opened. And so we invented the fake murder story. By the way, Ian, I must congratulate you for grasping the possibilities of the situation so speedily. If you hadn't demanded the opening of the box, the Murdoch secret might still be a secret. Is it a clever plan, Halm? Is it too bad that it had to have such a miserable ending? I'm not sure that we have finished for the matter. Mr Murdoch. Yes, mister Holmes. You would say that your family took £4,000 from that box? Yes, mister Holmes.
I would have sworn from its size that it would hold closer to 5,000. And in your account of the legend, Watson, you told me that sir Thomas Dunbar stated on his death bed that he had put something else in the box. Something for a rainy day, is that? Yes. Mhmm. Did the Murdochs find that extra something? No, mister Holmes. They found nothing but the gold. Oh, that's very odd. I think I'll take a closer look at that box if you don't mind. Since this seems to be a night of telling secrets, I think you might as well know, father, that if you don't give your consent, I shall elope with you. Oh, bravo. My dear. Bravo. No such thing. I admire your revolution, young lady, but I hardly think it will be necessary. What do you mean, hom? Permit me to show you all the treasure of the Dunbars. What are your fault, Holmes? See, something for a rainy day that old Sir Thomas spoke of. You see, since the cubic contents of the box obviously differed from my calculations, I deduced the existence of a false bottom. I was correct. And in that space, I found this.
[00:26:46] Unknown:
It's a manuscript.
[00:26:47] Unknown:
Quite so. The manuscript of a book. Look at the title page and see the author's name.
[00:26:52] Unknown:
History of the Dunbar family
[00:26:56] Unknown:
by Sir Walter Scott. Oh, I miss Scott. I think, sir Walter, that an original and unpublished manuscript by your distinguished namesake will prove worth several times the gold that is missing from that box. You have saved the day for his homes, my boy. God bless you.
[00:27:11] Unknown:
This has been a stranger New Year as ever I knew, but it's turned out to be a bunny one. Thanks to you, Holmes. Will, fill up your glasses. We're going to drink a toast to the New Year. Hi, Joe. Yes, sir Walter. This is really a happy occasion. And let's
[00:27:42] Unknown:
sixty years ago. He's made us all very happy here tonight.
[00:28:23] Unknown:
Well, doctor, that turned out to be a very happy new year for all concerned. Yes. That's one new year that I'll never forget. Well, I sure hope you'll always remember this one too. Oh, just a second, my boy. That calls for a glass of corn. Fine.
[00:28:35] Unknown:
Well, to, to a happy new year my boy, to you and for our many friends listening in. And to you doctor. Oh, wait boy.
[00:28:45] Unknown:
Ah, that's good. Doctor, this has indeed been a pleasant association for me. You're the best storyteller I've ever known and the Petri family makes the best wine I've ever tasted. I hope that just as they've been making wine for generations in the past, the Petri family will continue to make fine wine in the future. Mister Bartel, I know that you'll always be here to tell us just how good that Petri wine is. Well, I hope so, doctor. And I hope you'll always be right here beside me to tell another swell story about Well, incidentally,
[00:29:18] Unknown:
doctor, what new new adventure are you planning to tell us next week? Next week, mister Bartell, I'm gonna tell you a weird story. It starts with a series of murders on Hampstead Heath and ends with a battle to the death in a burning waxworks. I call it the strange case of the
[00:29:35] Unknown:
murderer in wax. The night Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in the sir Arthur Conan Doyle story, the silver blaze. Music is by Dean Foster. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and Mr. Bruce through the courtesy of universal pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studio.
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.
[00:30:43] Unknown:
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[00:00:31] Unknown:
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[00:01:02] Unknown:
This episode from the life of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by short wave and through the worldwide facilities of the armed forces radio service. Petri wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. 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 at master detective, Sherlock Holmes. Well, this is it, New Year's Eve. And I wish you could be here with us this evening so we could toast each other with a glass of petri california port. As you know, port wine has long been a favorite wine for celebrating a happy occasion.
That's because port is a wine rich in tradition. And you couldn't ask for a more delicious port than petri port. Petri port is a deep going red color, beautiful to look at and wonderful to taste. With a hearty full flavor that's right from the heart of the grape. And when you serve Petri Port to your friends tonight or or anytime, remember you can serve it proudly because the name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wine. And now I'm sure doctor Watson's waiting for us, so let's drop in and see.
[00:02:38] Unknown:
Good evening doctor. Good evening mister Bartel. Drop your usual chair. Thank you. That's it. Well, did you enjoy the Christmas holidays?
[00:02:47] Unknown:
Well, I've I've had a whale of a time. Thank you. But I don't think I can face a turkey or a mince pie for at least another year.
[00:02:54] Unknown:
How about you, doctor? Oh, I had a very pleasant week too, my boy. Partiers, visitors, and a flattering number of Christmas messages to be answered. Oh, I say you got a new pipe. Is that a Christmas present? Yes. New pipe, new tobacco pouch, and a pound of my favorite tobacco. All of them sent to me from London by an old client and a friend of mine, sir, Ian Dunbar.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
An old client,
[00:03:16] Unknown:
Well, do you mean he was one of your patients or was he someone that you and the great Sherlock Holmes helped? The latter, mister Bartell. As a matter of fact, it was receiving this gift that reminded me of the story I've decided to tell you tonight. The story in which Ian Dunbar played a prominent father. And how did it begin? The day before New Year's Eve in 1899, Sherlock Holmes and I sat in opposite corners of a first class railway carriage as we sped towards Edinburgh in the flying Scotsman. What took you and Sherlock Holmes up there, doctor? It started off as a holiday visit, mister Bartell. My old friend, sir Walter Dunbar, had asked Holmes and me to spend a few days with him at Dunbar Castle about 20 miles outside Edinburgh.
After we left King's Cross Station, Holmes, his sharp eager face framed in his deers stocking cap dipped into the bundle of fresh papers which we brought with him. We left Bedford far behind us before he thrust the last one of them under the seat, cleaned across and offered me his guitar. Careful cigar Watson. No, I'll I'll stick to the pipe. Flying Scotsman's living up to its name. They're going splendidly.
[00:04:27] Unknown:
Our personal rate is 53 and a half miles an hour. Oh, I haven't noticed the quarter mile post. Nor have I but the telegraph posts on this line are 60 yards apart. With the aid of a watch, the calculation is a simple one. What's in my dear fellow? We have several hours ahead of us. Now, tell me more about sir Walter Dunbar. I have a feeling that he is in some kind of trouble. But you haven't wanted to talk about him. Well, it's not exactly trouble Holmes. There's a strange problem that confronts the Dunbar. There's a problem
[00:04:53] Unknown:
that'll be settled at midnight tomorrow. Oh, indeed. Night of new year's eve, Yes, exactly. But, to really appreciate the story I have to begin by telling you the death of old sir Thomas Dunbar. The father of the present baronet I suppose. Yes. He was severely wounded in Waterloo though he managed to last out long enough to get back to Dunbar Castle. The story goes that as he lay there on his death bed, he told his wife of his plan with her unborn son.
[00:05:24] Unknown:
Dinner, grave lass. I'll fetch the baronet here from Waterloo. What if I fetch the mortal wound as well? Oh, hush, lass. I'm not afraid to die. All that niggles me is that I shall never see the child you bear. They say, what will Scott not coming yet? Can he visit the deathbed of his old friend? Oh, who's there? I thought you were sending Murdoch. Hi, Thomas. It's me. I'm leaving an unborn son behind me when I die. Now I don't trust women or children or banks for that matter, but the best part of my wealth and gold and the big iron box you'll find under the bed, the money's there.
I have something else for that rainy day. You have to keep that box in trust for me, Sandy. You can turn it over to my boy on the New Year's Eve before his 20 birthday, and he'll be a man and wise enough to know how to use it. You understand, Sandy? I don't. But supposing your berm's a girl. A girl? I tell you he'll be a boy, and we'll name him Walter after my good friend,
[00:06:32] Unknown:
sir Walter Scott.
[00:06:43] Unknown:
Pretty interesting story Watson and that child of course is the gentleman we are going to see now, Sir Walter Dunbar. Exactly. And the first baronet was a friend of Sir Walter Scott while his son can boast of your acquaintance. My,
[00:06:55] Unknown:
the family singularly rich in literary friendships. That's not very funny Holmes. To continue, I suppose you can guess what happened. Sir Thomas carefully drew up a document to specify. The new year's eve of all the baronet's twenty first birthday and the poor child was born on February. It was a leap year.
[00:07:15] Unknown:
So poor sir Walter is still waiting for his iron box full of gold. Yes. He'll be 84 next year and yet legally
[00:07:22] Unknown:
with only one birthday every four years in the eyes of the law he'll at last be
[00:07:27] Unknown:
21. Not most amusing situation though I'm afraid sir Walter finds it far from entertaining.
[00:07:32] Unknown:
The lawyers must have been extremely scrupulous and abiding by the letter of the document. Yes, old Sandy Murdoch is dead now of course but he too is a great grandson William Murdoch who still handles the Dunbar Estate.
[00:07:44] Unknown:
He'll be at the castle tonight to formally hand over the iron box. I'm delighted you accepted the holiday invitation at sir Walter. My dear fellow, I've needed a rest but, I've always loathed too strict a one. This situation may pose a nice little problem for me. Problem? Yes, I'm reasonably certain that the aegis of Dunbar will not get his iron box full of gold on this new year's eve either but we shall see old fellow, we shall see.
[00:08:22] Unknown:
Doctor Watson, I'm glad to see you and mister Holmes here at the customer. Thank you my boy. Holmes, this is Ian Dunbar, sir Walter grandson. How do you do Mr Dunbar? I'm very proud to meet you Mr Holmes. I've heard a lot about you. A grandfather will be down in a few moments.
[00:08:36] Unknown:
Let's go into the library, shall we? I imagine Sir Walter is quite excited about tonight's sermon, isn't he? Wouldn't you be if you'd waited 60
[00:08:45] Unknown:
inheritance? Thank the lord I have the foresight to be born on the prosaic date of August.
[00:08:51] Unknown:
Even if your grandfather's death you would be the next Benedict I take it. Yes mister Holmes. You see my father was killed two months ago at Maffetick. Yes, I read about it in the papers my boy. I'm I'm very sorry. Thank you doctor.
[00:09:03] Unknown:
The opening of the box isn't going to be the only ceremony at midnight. Dorothy and I are announcing our engagement. Dorothy? Dorothy Small. She He and her father are staying here too. My congratulations. Yes indeed dear, indeed mine too. Thank you. It's it's been quite a battle with her father though. He's a businessman and isn't impressed with titles, when they aren't accompanied by a suitable income. But when we told him about the inheritance, he relented and gave his consent. Ah, here's Dorothy now.
[00:09:32] Unknown:
Dorothy darling, I want you to meet two friends of mine, mister Sherlock Holmes and doctor Watson. How do you do? Now how do you do, miss Molly? How are you, my dear? From what this young man's been telling us, I I gather that congratulations are in order. Thank you. I finally persuaded father that Ian would make a worthy son-in-law.
[00:09:50] Unknown:
For a while, I was afraid we'd have to elope for Gretna Green, leaving a cottage on bread and cheese and law, but braves of parental wrath just as they do in the storybooks.
[00:10:00] Unknown:
Oh, sir Walter. There you are.
[00:10:02] Unknown:
What's up, my dear boy? How are you? And this must be your friend, Sherlock Holmes. How do you do, sir? What that? We're a will for a young nipper who'll be 21 at midnight.
[00:10:13] Unknown:
Oh, gentlemen, may I introduce mister Herbert Snow? I do, sir. I believe that we have congratulate you on the engagement of your daughter. That was supposed to remain a secret until midnight.
[00:10:24] Unknown:
The Dunbar box was finally opened. You're gonna be grouchy, Herbert. The children are in love, and I'm going to settle money on Ian. And it's New Year's Eve. Let's enter into the spirit of the occasion. Remove the glasses, Ian. I've had some bottles of my special pride for now. It's the finest port in Scotland, the cream of Dunbar. My father laid the first bottle down the year before I was born, and a drink of the brew will surely warm the cockers of your heart. Well, my mouse watching already, sir Walter. When is this, lawyer fellow, young Murdoch, getting here? Oh, any moment, Herbert. As soon as he arrives, we'll have dinner, and then we'll be ready for the evening ceremony. Are you bringing the famous iron box with him, sir Walter? If he doesn't, they won't get any dinner, Holmes. Ian, pass the glasses around, my boy. Ah, there you are, my god. Good evening, sorter. Oh, you've got the box where you are, see. Now the party's complete. Oh, let me introduce you. Miss Small, her father, mister Small, my grandson, Ian, you know. Mister Sherlock Holmes, doctor Watson. How do you do, isn't it? I'm sorry I'm late, sir Walter. My train was delayed. Oh, that's alright, madoc. You're here, and you brought the box. That's all that matters. Here, give our young lawyer a drink. Here, I'll help you pour it. I must say that this is our exciting homes, a famous iron box with its inheritance of gold. Yes. And from the size of the box, with a rough guess, I should estimate its cubic content in gold at around 5,000.
[00:11:43] Unknown:
Not a vast sum perhaps to a businessman like mister Small for the windfall to an impetuous Scottish baron. A strong young man, mister Murdoch. How do you mean strong, hon? A box that size full of golden sovereigns would weigh considerable amounts and yet the lawyer carried it single handed. I know that we're all
[00:12:02] Unknown:
assembled, I'm going to propose a toast. Though it's still some oars off yet, let's drink to the new year. It means a lot to some of us. To 1900.
[00:12:11] Unknown:
'19 hundred.
[00:12:13] Unknown:
We should toast more than just 19 hundreds of water. We should drink to the new century that's about to begin. Good idea, Dorothea. I'm afraid that wouldn't be quite appropriate, miss Small. To be accurate, the twentieth century
[00:12:25] Unknown:
won't begin until January 2000 and not 1900.
[00:12:30] Unknown:
Of course. That's it. Dorothy, I'm afraid your wedding can't take place for some time yet. Father, what are you talking about? I read an article that got in the other day that said just the same thing as you doctor Watson and what's more it said something even more important. It said that 1900
[00:12:47] Unknown:
is not a leap year. Oh rubbish. Leap year comes every four years. There was one in 1896 then obviously 1900 is one. I think mister Small may be right. What do you say, mister Holmes? Do you know? Well, I hope no one would bring up this point, but it's the little problem I referred to on the train, my dear Watson. Holmes, for heaven's sake, answer. Is 1900
[00:13:08] Unknown:
a leap year or no? I'm afraid it's not sir Walter. No. Because of a slight imbalance that would otherwise be produced in the calendar, of the even century years only those divisible by 400 are leap years. In other words, 1600 was a leap year and the year February will be a leap year but, 1800 and 1900
[00:13:29] Unknown:
are not leap years. Then you have no birthday next year, Sir Walter, and I'm afraid I can't open the box tonight. And the Dunbars won't get their inheritance. And you, my dear. Don't marry for a few more years. I won't allow you to marry a pauper. Mister Holmes, are you sure of your fact? I'm very much afraid that I am, young man. Oh, this is terrible.
[00:13:46] Unknown:
I can't stand anymore. No. No. No. Don't take it too bad. This is Walter. Here here's a here. Drink this.
[00:13:53] Unknown:
That's it. After all, you only have to wait another four years. Another four years? At my age, young man. At my age. Oh, no. I shall never live that long. What is it, Angus? Dinner is prepared, sir Walter. You can solve it as soon as you're ready, sir.
[00:14:14] Unknown:
As you're ready, sir. What a what a miserable meal, Holmes. The Walters come to his room, the young lovers are kneeling in tears, and Small and the lawyer, Murdoch, seem to be positively gloating. Yes. The most depressing atmosphere in which to welcome the new year, but let us at least make the best of it.
[00:14:37] Unknown:
I think I'll go and have a talk with sir Walter. And you, my dear chap, why not try and cheer up the young folks?
[00:14:43] Unknown:
Some of your experiences in India may make them their minds off the bubble. Yes. Quite no, dear. I'll join you in the library. Call me few if you want me home. Ah, there you are, my dears. Hello, doctor White. All alone in front of the fire. I'm afraid we're not in very good spirits. Oh, nevertheless, I'll sit down here and join you if you don't mind. Misery loves company, you know.
[00:15:07] Unknown:
So so very kind, doctor. Not at all. I was just trying to persuade Ian to elope with me. But he's being most ungallant. He won't even consider it. How can I, darling?
[00:15:16] Unknown:
I've got under £200 a year in my own right.
[00:15:19] Unknown:
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[00:15:33] Unknown:
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[00:16:24] Unknown:
How could we live on that? I was counting on the money the grandfather was going to give us to get me started. Now now now, miss Small a little early. You talk to Brett the Green and bread and cheese and loving a cottage. Yes. There's a lot to be said for it, you know. A lot to be said for it. Yes, doctor. But have you ever tried it? Not literally, my boy, but, I will tell you that when Mary, my wife and I were first married, I had very little money. In fact my income was just about the sum that you mentioned and we were very happy.
[00:16:56] Unknown:
But you have a profession doctor. Look at me. I've been trained for nothing except to be led of Dunbar Castle. I can't support a wife on tradition. But you're young, Ian. You can get some kind of position. I'm sure you can. Of course. Of course. As a matter of fact, I think that Holmes, what is it? What's wrong? Devil's work of foot, Watson. Come with me, old fellow, and you, mister Dunbar. Mister Holmes, what's happening? It's Sir Walter. I went to his room. It was in darkness, but in the moonlight, I saw two figures struggling by the open casement. One of them was Sir Walter. As I entered, he disappeared from sight. His attacker had pushed him out of the window into the moat. Okay. The other man got away in the darkness. We need to get lanterns and go out to the moat at once. Though I'm very much afraid, Mr. Dunbar, that your grandfather is beyond our help.
[00:17:45] Unknown:
Doctor Watson will be back in just a second, so I'd just like to remind you that, if you want to serve a wine over the holidays, that you're sure the ladies will enjoy, serve Petri California Muscatel. Petri Muscatel is a golden wine with a wonderful flavor. The flavor of big plump muscat grapes. And you know what a flavor that is. I'm sure you'll find that Petri Muscatel is the favorite wine of all women, just as Petri Port is the favourite wine with men. And incidentally, if you're not sure which to get, Petri Muscatel or Petri Port, don't buy one, buy two. Get them both and you'll be sure to please everyone.
Now to get back to our story,
[00:18:25] Unknown:
someone had pushed poor old sir Walter out of his bedroom window and enter the moat below. Isn't that right doctor Watson? Yes. Mister Bartell, of course we grabbed lanterns as fast as we could and rushed outside, but it was a hopeless task. The water was eight or 10 feet deep and it seemed obvious that the elderly sir elder, sir Walter, wouldn't have a chance of saving himself. But we searched on the thicker bobbing lanterns, the scurrying figures in the frosty moonlight, forming a weird for your sake sir, as well as the Dunbar. The scandal can't touch me or Dorothy over this. Her engagement was never announced. Thank you. And it's a great pity sir. I should take some new blood in your family, it'd be a great improvement. You're all being confoundedly impertinent now. And you'll be confoundedly happy sir. Well Holmes, have you given up hope?
[00:19:26] Unknown:
I'm afraid we'll never find him without draggeless and grappling hooks. I have to call the police. What time is it? Sir Ian,
[00:19:34] Unknown:
you know the time? What did you call me, mister Holmes? Sir Ian. By sure. Yes. You does seem a bit premature Holmes but of course you're right. If your poor grandfather is dead mister Dunbar,
[00:19:44] Unknown:
you're the baronet now. And the time sir Iain, it's it's a quarter to twelve mister Holmes. A quarter of an hour to the new year. Sir Iain, doesn't that fact suggest something to you? Yes. Yes, it does.
[00:19:58] Unknown:
So I'm the new baronet, am I? Very well then. There'll be no more talk of the police for fifteen minutes. I want all of you to come back to the castle with me. As the last chime of midnight brings out, I shall have a statement to make. A statement that I want you all to hear.
[00:20:25] Unknown:
What she brought us all back here for home. Something very funny going on. I tell you, I don't like the look of it. And I Watson like to look at it very much. I wish you wouldn't be so dash mysterious. What are you up to? You haven't taken a step yet towards finding the murderer? Have I? And I wonder what causes the beads of perspiration on mister Small's brow? Lord, you mean that Small's I wonder what causes the singular look of apprehension on the face of Murdoch, the young lawyer. You remember of course on my remarking how easily he carried the large iron
[00:20:54] Unknown:
box. Yes. You took a strong man to throw some water out of the window. The
[00:20:59] Unknown:
new year is approaching.
[00:21:02] Unknown:
Ladies and gentlemen, in view of our recent tragedy, this is one New Year's Eve when none of us feels like song and jollity. But there still remains a ritual duty for me to perform. Mister Murdoch, open the iron box please. But but but I can't do that. It was only to be opened for your grandfather. No, mr Murdoch. The phrase was that it was to be opened on the New Year's Eve before the baronet's twenty first birthday. I am now the baronet and I shall be 21 next year on August 21. Open the box please, mister Murdoch. Din darling, how practically clever are you? Good lad, I hope you think of it. But siril Murdoch, open that box. Very well siril, but I'm afraid you're in for something of a shock.
[00:21:49] Unknown:
Great Scott, the the box is empty.
[00:21:52] Unknown:
Except for a sheet of notepaper in the bottom. What's the meaning of this murder? Read that paper so you'll understand. I owe you 4,000 sovereigns and it's signed Alexander Murdoch on behalf of Murdoch and Murdoch, lawyers.
[00:22:06] Unknown:
You'd better explain this. It's the family skeleton syrian. That notice signed by my great grandfather, the one that witnessed the original deed concerning the box. As soon as Sir Walter was born born on that February, my great grandfather realized the money wouldn't have to be produced for eighty four years. And so he stole it. He borrowed it. He always intended to pay it back, but he was never able to. When he died, he told my father of his secret. My father in turn told me. We've always planned to put back the money, Sareen, but we've never been able to. This is daylight robbery. You should prosecute the me and the firm's still in business. You can ruin them. You can sue them for every pity they have. Mr. Small,
[00:22:41] Unknown:
you've already shown a marked diversion to my family. I suggest you allow me to handle their affairs. Bravo Ian. How dare you, darling. Go to your room. No one's going to their room. No one's leaving here until the police arrive.
[00:22:54] Unknown:
I'm convinced that one of you murdered my grandfather tonight. And if you ask me, it's obvious who that someone is. Who, doctor? What's you, mister Murdoch? You came here planning to kill poor old Sir Walter because you never intended to open that box. You thought that your secret would die with him. That's a lie. I was going to tell him everything and then ask for time to pay the money. I didn't kill him. Of course he didn't. There's your murderer. You yourselfian. Father, what are you saying? I'm saying that Ian's the murderer. He saw that the box wasn't going to be open for another four years. He realized that the money couldn't marry Dorothy. So
[00:23:23] Unknown:
he killed his grandfather and then ordered the box open. You're trying to cover yourself. You pushed grandfather out of that window tonight. You thought that if he died, the box would never be opened. So Dorothy couldn't marry me. You you you can't, Watson. Gentlemen, gentlemen. Upon my soul, Holmes, you seem remarkably calm. You My dear Watson, I must say I'm
[00:23:41] Unknown:
absolutely fascinated by listening to three people accusing each other of murder and each of them producing perfectly sound motives. It's a remarkable example of the dangers of reasoning for motive alone. We should profit by experience, Watson. Mr. Holmes, how can you be so calm? There's a murderer in this room. I suppose this lady, Mr. Rhodes is getting a little out of hand, miss Small. Let's conclude it. You'd better come out now.
[00:24:03] Unknown:
What?
[00:24:04] Unknown:
Out of the street. It's moving. A happy new year to your old grandfather. To water, how am I seeing a ghost? To water, you're alright. So what kind of a game have you been playing? It's a bunny game that Holmes and I invented. You might call it forcing the issue. I was determined to have the box open before the next four years were out whilst I was still alive to look inside it. But the periphery of your family, Murdoch, has made me a very unhappy man. Sir Walter, I should pay back the money in a few years. I swear I will. It'll be too late to do me any good, but I'll take care that Ian gets it. I have half a mind to prosecute you. Grandfather, the money isn't important now that you're old. You were counting on it just the same, my boy, so that you could marry Dorothy. I know that. She'll never marry a pauper. I won't allow it. When I'm 21, you can't stop me father and I am going to marry Ian. Be quiet.
[00:24:49] Unknown:
Walter,
[00:24:51] Unknown:
it's a very unsavory business. I think that you owe us an explanation of your behavior tonight. You tell him Holmes. I fancy a weed drop of creamer dunbar watching y'all search for my body in the moat has made me thirsty. The explanation is a very simple one ladies and gentlemen.
[00:25:06] Unknown:
When you arrived here tonight mister Murdoch, I knew from the way you handled the box that it could not contain the sum of gold it was supposed to. And sir, you you suspected fraud and devised a plan to force the opening of the box. Yes. And sir Walter was an eager conspirator. Of course I was. Ian is 21 next August. Supposing, supposing I had died after he came of age and before my next birthday, four years hence, the box would never have been opened. And so we invented the fake murder story. By the way, Ian, I must congratulate you for grasping the possibilities of the situation so speedily. If you hadn't demanded the opening of the box, the Murdoch secret might still be a secret. Is it a clever plan, Halm? Is it too bad that it had to have such a miserable ending? I'm not sure that we have finished for the matter. Mr Murdoch. Yes, mister Holmes. You would say that your family took £4,000 from that box? Yes, mister Holmes.
I would have sworn from its size that it would hold closer to 5,000. And in your account of the legend, Watson, you told me that sir Thomas Dunbar stated on his death bed that he had put something else in the box. Something for a rainy day, is that? Yes. Mhmm. Did the Murdochs find that extra something? No, mister Holmes. They found nothing but the gold. Oh, that's very odd. I think I'll take a closer look at that box if you don't mind. Since this seems to be a night of telling secrets, I think you might as well know, father, that if you don't give your consent, I shall elope with you. Oh, bravo. My dear. Bravo. No such thing. I admire your revolution, young lady, but I hardly think it will be necessary. What do you mean, hom? Permit me to show you all the treasure of the Dunbars. What are your fault, Holmes? See, something for a rainy day that old Sir Thomas spoke of. You see, since the cubic contents of the box obviously differed from my calculations, I deduced the existence of a false bottom. I was correct. And in that space, I found this.
[00:26:46] Unknown:
It's a manuscript.
[00:26:47] Unknown:
Quite so. The manuscript of a book. Look at the title page and see the author's name.
[00:26:52] Unknown:
History of the Dunbar family
[00:26:56] Unknown:
by Sir Walter Scott. Oh, I miss Scott. I think, sir Walter, that an original and unpublished manuscript by your distinguished namesake will prove worth several times the gold that is missing from that box. You have saved the day for his homes, my boy. God bless you.
[00:27:11] Unknown:
This has been a stranger New Year as ever I knew, but it's turned out to be a bunny one. Thanks to you, Holmes. Will, fill up your glasses. We're going to drink a toast to the New Year. Hi, Joe. Yes, sir Walter. This is really a happy occasion. And let's
[00:27:42] Unknown:
sixty years ago. He's made us all very happy here tonight.
[00:28:23] Unknown:
Well, doctor, that turned out to be a very happy new year for all concerned. Yes. That's one new year that I'll never forget. Well, I sure hope you'll always remember this one too. Oh, just a second, my boy. That calls for a glass of corn. Fine.
[00:28:35] Unknown:
Well, to, to a happy new year my boy, to you and for our many friends listening in. And to you doctor. Oh, wait boy.
[00:28:45] Unknown:
Ah, that's good. Doctor, this has indeed been a pleasant association for me. You're the best storyteller I've ever known and the Petri family makes the best wine I've ever tasted. I hope that just as they've been making wine for generations in the past, the Petri family will continue to make fine wine in the future. Mister Bartel, I know that you'll always be here to tell us just how good that Petri wine is. Well, I hope so, doctor. And I hope you'll always be right here beside me to tell another swell story about Well, incidentally,
[00:29:18] Unknown:
doctor, what new new adventure are you planning to tell us next week? Next week, mister Bartell, I'm gonna tell you a weird story. It starts with a series of murders on Hampstead Heath and ends with a battle to the death in a burning waxworks. I call it the strange case of the
[00:29:35] Unknown:
murderer in wax. The night Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in the sir Arthur Conan Doyle story, the silver blaze. Music is by Dean Foster. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and Mr. Bruce through the courtesy of universal pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studio.
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.
[00:30:43] Unknown:
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