Amazing Mr. Malone and Sherlock Holmes

Summary

Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio) - Amazing Mr. Malone and Sherlock Holmes
Host: RelicRadio.com
Release Date: July 9, 2025

Case Closed! takes listeners on a thrilling journey back to the golden age of radio with two captivating stories: "Amazing Mr. Malone: Appearances can be Deceiving" and "Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge." This episode masterfully blends classic detective work with intriguing character dynamics, delivering suspense and insightful resolutions.

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Story 1: Amazing Mr. Malone - "Appearances can be Deceiving"

Characters:

• John J. Malone (Gene Raymond): A sharp attorney and counselor at law with a knack for unraveling complex mysteries.
• Laura Riker: A distressed woman entangled in a web of suspicion following her brother George Cromwell's murder.
• Lieutenant Brooks (Henry Morgan): The local police lieutenant investigating the case.
• Kenneth Harrison: A mysterious individual offering Malone money to take on Laura's case.
• Cokey Michaels: The chauffeur involved in the unfolding drama.

Plot Overview: The episode opens with John J. Malone receiving a perplexing case involving the murder of George Cromwell. Upon arriving at Laura Riker’s residence, Malone encounters a volatile Laura who aggressively accuses him of involvement in her brother's death.

At [05:09], Malone attempts to maintain professionalism:
"I expected better of you," says Laura, underscoring her volatile state.

Seeking clarity, Malone meets Kenneth Harrison at the local bar, who claims to represent Laura. Despite Harrison’s evasive behavior, Malone is suspicious of his genuine intentions, especially when Harrison mentions that Laura is innocent, prompting Malone to push for deeper investigation.

The turning point arrives when Malone decides to employ an unconventional method to extract the truth. At [19:34], he introduces the idea of using a truth serum:
"All you got to do is submit to an injection of sodium amytol."

Despite Laura’s initial resistance, the truth serum compels her to confess her crimes. At [27:08], Laura reveals:
"I killed Mr. Reichard. Mr. Michael."

Key Insights:

• Deceptive Appearances: Laura Riker initially appears as a grieving sister but ultimately reveals her capacity for deceit and violence.
• Unorthodox Methods: Malone’s use of truth serum highlights the lengths he is willing to go to uncover the truth, raising ethical questions about such practices.
• Character Depth: Laura’s confession exposes her as a complex character driven by obsession and betrayal, deviating from traditional archetypal criminals.

Notable Quotes:

• Malone, at [06:24]: "You could do a lot worse. Ask the Lieutenant."
• Laura Riker, at [12:26]: "I have no idea."
• Malone, at [27:08]: "Get up, Michael. We're going to play 20 questions."

Conclusion: Through meticulous investigation and bold tactics, John J. Malone successfully dismantles the facade surrounding Laura Riker, ensuring justice is served. The story underscores the theme that outward appearances can be misleading, a nod to the episode's title.

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Story 2: Sherlock Holmes - "The Problem of Thor Bridge"

Characters:

• Sherlock Holmes (Basil Rathbone): The quintessential detective known for his extraordinary deductive skills.
• Dr. Watson: Holmes's loyal friend and chronicler of their adventures.
• Neil Gibson: A wealthy gold mining magnate accusing Holmes of false evidence.
• Grace Dunbar: The governess accused of murdering Gibson’s wife.
• Sergeant Coventry: The local policeman assisting in the investigation.
• Cesar: Gibson’s Brazilian servant.

Plot Overview: The second narrative shifts to the legendary Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they tackle the perplexing case of Grace Dunbar’s murder. Initially framed by circumstantial evidence—a revolver and a suspicious note—Grace appears guilty of orchestrating her own demise and implicating herself as the governess.

At [42:15], Holmes questions the authenticity of the incriminating note still clutched by Grace:
"It's very black against her. I can't deny that one explanation of the tragedy did come into my head."

Holmes meticulously explores inconsistencies at the crime scene, such as the missing revolver and the deliberate damage to the stonework near the bridge, suggesting foul play rather than an obvious murder.

The climax occurs when Holmes demonstrates his deductive prowess by reconstructing the crime scene with a gravity-defying setup. At [53:02], he elucidates:
"It was suicide. But we can follow the various steps quite clearly."

Key Insights:

• Deductive Mastery: Holmes's ability to parse through misleading evidence showcases his unparalleled analytical skills.
• Psychological Nuance: The case delves into the psychology of the accused, revealing motives and psychological strains that lead to self-destruction.
• False Accusations: The narrative highlights the danger of relying solely on circumstantial evidence without thorough investigation.

Notable Quotes:

• Holmes, at [46:11]: "The finding of the revolver in the wardrobe was planting evidence to incriminate her."
• Dr. Watson, at [55:16]: "You are a blooming magician, Mr. Holmes, that's what you are."
• Holmes, at [53:07]: "Was there ever a more exact demonstration?"

Conclusion: Sherlock Holmes unravels the truth behind Grace Dunbar's death, revealing it as a meticulously planned suicide rather than murder. This case reinforces the importance of detailed scrutiny over surface-level evidence, embodying the essence of Holmes's detective philosophy.

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Final Thoughts

This episode of Case Closed! excellently juxtaposes two distinct but equally engaging narratives. "Amazing Mr. Malone: Appearances can be Deceiving" offers a raw, morally complex investigation, while "Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge" delivers the classic, methodical unraveling of a seemingly straightforward case.

Listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of dialogue, suspense, and intellectual triumphs. Notable moments, such as Malone’s daring use of truth serum and Holmes’s ingenious reconstruction of the crime scene, underscore the timeless allure of detective stories. By blending old-time radio charm with compelling storytelling, RelicRadio.com successfully brings these classic mysteries to life, making them accessible and enthralling for both longtime aficionados and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes Recap:

• "Appearances can be deceiving," – John J. Malone ([00:00])
• "I can't understand you," – Laura Riker ([06:01])
• "You're a blooming magician, Mr. Holmes," – Dr. Watson ([55:16])

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Disclaimer: The characters and events depicted in this summary are entirely fictional and intended for entertainment purposes, maintaining the spirit of classic radio mysteries.

Transcript

[John J. Malone]

This is case closed. One hour of mystery and crime from the golden age of radio. Every Wednesday@ RelicRadio.com. our first story comes from the Amazing Mr. Malone. This week we'll hear his episode from February 26, 1950, titled Appearances can be Deceiving. After that, it's Sherlock Holmes and the Problem of Thor. Bridge from October 1st, 1945. The amazing Mr. Malone. Hello, operator. Operator, get me the office of John J. Malone. The American Broadcasting Company presents the amazing Mr. Malone. An exciting half hour of mystery starring Gene Raymond. Our local is the city of Chicago, the time, the present and the hero of these weekly adventures. The amazing Mr. Malone. Malone is the name. John J. Malone, attorney and counselor at law. Tonight I want to take my text from Aesop fables. It was Aesop who first observed that appearances can be deceiving. Of course, he was thinking of the wolf in sheep's clothing. But he might just as well have had Carl Riker in mind. Mr. Riker is the tall, poetic looking gentleman in the rear of the Cadillac sedan tearing down Chicago's south side in the rain. If you were judging solely by appearances, you'd say, here's a gentleman and a scholar. And you'd be right. No student could be more diligent than he is in his studio. Search for the truth much further. Michael. No, it's the last house on this block. That one. Yeah. Here we are. You want us.

[Laura Riker]

You wait out here, please.

[John J. Malone]

You will. In that case, I think I'll go in and watch some fun, huh? Hey, will you look at it for. Excuse me if I fail to admire the beauties of nature right now. Just. Just what are you picking on doing, Mr. Riker? I hardly know myself. I'm such a creature of impulse.

[Laura Riker]

Who's that?

[John J. Malone]

Friend.

[Laura Riker]

Second.

[John J. Malone]

Yes. Mr. Cromwell. That's right. So nice to know you. My name is Riker. Rer. Yes. I'm just. Gentleman. Mr. Michael. Hi. What do you boys want? May we? Okay. My name means little to you, eh, Mr. Cromwell? Not a thing. Perhaps my wife's would mean more. Her given name is Laura. Laura Riker. Is yours? Incredible, isn't it? What do you want here? I'm a peculiar sort of a man, Mr. Cromwell. I have an unusual fixation. You're familiar with psychiatry? No. Well, an analyst would say to me I have very strong acquisitive instincts. Definitely antisocial. I can't bring myself to share any of my belongings. Look, Reich, I. Get to the point. You must forgive me, sir. I do have a tendency to wander anytime I do. Please don't hesitate. What do you want? Very simple thing. I'd be worth mentioning. Your life. You crazy. Hey, put that gun away, Mr. Rucker. I didn't bargain for nothing like this. No, I'm sure you didn't. Now listen, mister, you got this all wrong. I've nothing to do with your wife. Ask her. Laura will tell you. You disappoint me, Mr. Cromwell. I expected better of you.

[Laura Riker]

What are you afraid of?

[John J. Malone]

Have you ever read Aristophanes? For Pete's sake, May? No.

[Laura Riker]

Well, it was he who wrote, for.

[John J. Malone]

What is death but an eternal sleep? So I say to you. Pleasant dreams, Mr. Croft. No, don't.

[Laura Riker]

Dave, I'm so glad you decided to come home. Yeah, you take all right, fine.

[John J. Malone]

Evelyn.

[Laura Riker]

Who's there?

[John J. Malone]

Well, I'm sorry to bother you, but I'm looking for a Dave Cromwell. Are you? Yeah. Did you have a brother named George? You mean, did I have. You better come in, Lieutenant. Thank you. Nasty night, isn't it? Don't tell me you dropped in just to get in out of the rain. Well, I hardly know where to begin. You might try the beginning. All right. An hour ago we got a call from the superintendent of your brother's place. When we got down there, we found him murdered. He'd been shot twice. I see. You wouldn't have any idea? None at all. I realize what a shock this must be, Mr. Cromwell. If you'd like, I can come back later. Yeah, you do that, Lieutenant. You wouldn't want to venture. No, I wouldn't. I'm sorry. Yeah, sure. Well, good night. Good night, Mrs. Cromwell.

[Laura Riker]

Good night.

[John J. Malone]

Get my coat of him.

[Laura Riker]

Darling, you're not going on.

[John J. Malone]

Did you hear what I said?

[Laura Riker]

Dave. What are you doing, crazy? Give me that gun.

[John J. Malone]

Shut up.

[Laura Riker]

You know who killed George?

[John J. Malone]

I got a pretty good idea.

[Laura Riker]

Let the police take care of him.

[John J. Malone]

I thought I told you to get my coat.

[Laura Riker]

Please, darling, listen to me.

[John J. Malone]

Why should I when you don't listen to me? Now go on, get it. Got a lot of work to do tonight. Mysterious swaying on self sustaining side. George Cromwell, age 31. Laura. Laura, darling, I was talking to you.

[Laura Riker]

What do you want, Carl?

[John J. Malone]

Would you care to see the paper?

[Laura Riker]

No, thanks.

[John J. Malone]

You know, angel, I can't understand you.

[Laura Riker]

You can.

[John J. Malone]

No. You seem to have no desire to keep up with what's going on in the world.

[Laura Riker]

Isn't that a shame?

[John J. Malone]

These are momentous times. Law.

[Laura Riker]

Every day brings something new.

[John J. Malone]

Take tonight's edition, for example. Right here on the first page.

[Laura Riker]

Carl, I want to talk to you.

[John J. Malone]

Of course Dear, I'm all ears.

[Laura Riker]

I want a divorce.

[John J. Malone]

Disappoint me. I thought we were going to have a serious talk.

[Laura Riker]

I am serious.

[John J. Malone]

You can't be. Laura, you've been through this before. You know how I feel.

[Laura Riker]

Yes.

[John J. Malone]

You own me. You're bitter.

[Laura Riker]

I want a divorce.

[John J. Malone]

Carl, perhaps you'd better read this. First.

[Laura Riker]

Mysterious slaying on south side. The young man's name was Cross.

[John J. Malone]

Cromwell Cromwell. Didn't you know someone by that name?

[Laura Riker]

You. You killed him.

[John J. Malone]

Darling, you're jumping to conclusion.

[Laura Riker]

You killed him.

[John J. Malone]

Not so loud, Laura. What will the servants think? Shall we continue our discussion of divorce?

[Laura Riker]

I'll pay you back for this upset.

[John J. Malone]

Go to sleep. You'll feel better in the morning. Larry's Bar and Grill.

[Laura Riker]

Is Mr. Michaels there?

[John J. Malone]

Just a second. Hey, ain't you boys seen Cokey Michaels around? Sorry, pal, he ain't here. Well, if. If he should come in, will you please ask him to call Mr. Carl Riker? I'll say it again.

[Laura Riker]

Riker.

[John J. Malone]

R I K E. Hello? Hello? That's funny. Hey, you guys ever hear of a Carl Riker before? No. Why? I got a feeling I just heard the last of them. It was just one of those things. Things? Just one of those crazy things. One of those bells that now and then rings. Just one of those things. It was just one of those nights. Just one of those. You know, I thought you were never going to make it. I beg your pardon? Generally, I'm interrupted on the first 16 bars. What's your name, friend? Kenneth Harrison. You're probably wondering how I got in your office. I'm not even going to ask. Unless you've got something better to offer than. The door was open. You're not gonna believe this, Mr. Malone. No. So you might as well spare me if I've offended you, sir. Perhaps this will make up for it. Hey, what do you call that stuff, anyway? Money. I thought it looked familiar. I once saw some about three years ago. It was $2,500. Here, Mr. Malone. It's all yours. What giveaway show are you with? Did you see this morning's paper? Well, did you happen to notice a story about the murder of a gentleman named Carl Reich? Yeah. The police are holding his wife, and his wife happens to be my sister. I see. Do you? Maybe not. I'd like you to represent him. This money should be sufficient for retailer. If I take the case. Why should you refuse to? Well, first of all, you want to assure yourself that Laura is innocent. How'd you know I was going to say that? I Merely anticipated. Well, I tell you, Harrison, after you talk to Laura, you want to talk to me again. Did you ever think of going in for mind reading? I had considered it. Well, if I. If you should want to reach me, I'm at the Maynard Hotel. There you go again, Sadie. You know everything. Yes. Loud. And maybe you can tell me why. I got a feeling I've just been had. Okay, Harrison. I'll be seeing you. You are listening to the Amazing Mr. Malone, starring Gene Raymond. You know, everybody likes a bargain. That's the American way. We like to know that we're getting more than our money's worth when we buy something. And buying United States Savings Bonds would be getting more than your money's worth. Return of $4 for every three invested is a pretty good deal. And that's what United States E class Savings Bonds pay at maturity. So take advantage now of the opportunity to buy United States Savings Bonds. They can be purchased at banks or post offices or through the payroll savings plan where you work. Think of your future today and buy United States Savings Bonds. And now back to the amazing Mr. Malone. 32 minutes and 17 seconds later, I was down at police headquarters, which was 12 minutes and 14 seconds over schedule. But I stopped off at the bank first, where I discovered that the 2,500 bucks Kenneth Harrison had wished on me were apparently genuine. With his accent, I had a feeling it might be Confederate money. Then I hustled over to headquarters to earn my fee. Believe me, when you deal with a guy like Lieutenant Brooks, you're really doing it the hard way. Well, if it isn't the amazing Mr. Malone. Uh huh. That's a nice snappy comeback. Uh huh. How do you think of things like that? I listen to Bob Hope. Where's my client? Sussman, send in Mrs. Riker. Wait a minute. Brooks? How did you know I was representing Mrs. Riker? Oh, you think you're the only one who can be amazing?

[Laura Riker]

Excuse me. I was.

[John J. Malone]

Oh, yeah, come in. Mrs. Riker, your lawyer is here.

[Laura Riker]

My lawyer?

[John J. Malone]

I'm John J. Malone.

[Laura Riker]

Who?

[John J. Malone]

John J. Malone.

[Laura Riker]

I never heard of you.

[John J. Malone]

Honey, you can have anything you want on the house. Pay no attention to him, Laura. He's just sore because I'm going to get you out.

[Laura Riker]

Just what is going on here?

[John J. Malone]

Your brother retained me to represent you.

[Laura Riker]

My brother?

[John J. Malone]

Kenneth Harrison.

[Laura Riker]

You haven't had time to do much research, have you, Mr. Malone? What do you mean I'm an only child?

[John J. Malone]

You're a what are you ambulance chasing Malone? Look, Lieutenant, I give you my word, this Character came in and told me he was Mrs. Riker's brother.

[Laura Riker]

That's very funny.

[John J. Malone]

You don't know how funny it is. He gave me a $2,500 retainer.

[Laura Riker]

He what?

[John J. Malone]

So help me, that's the truth. You know a tall, good looking boy from below the mint julep line? About six. Water?

[Laura Riker]

No.

[John J. Malone]

You sure?

[Laura Riker]

I'm positive.

[John J. Malone]

Why should he give me $2,500?

[Laura Riker]

I have no idea.

[John J. Malone]

Well, do you want me?

[Laura Riker]

Why should I?

[John J. Malone]

You could do a lot worse. Ask the Lieutenant. Oh, keep me out of this. I'm prejudiced.

[Laura Riker]

How do I know this isn't some trick?

[John J. Malone]

What can you possibly lose if you tell a straight story?

[Laura Riker]

Yes. Did you say, what can I lose?

[John J. Malone]

All right, first of all, did you kill your husband?

[Laura Riker]

No.

[John J. Malone]

Okay, then we can continue. You're amazing, Mr. Malone. Already you know she's innocent. Already I know. Do you also know that she threatened her husband last night about two hours before he d. That's a lie. The chauffeur heard you. Mrs. Riker, what might this chauffeur's name be? Michaels. Cokie Michaels. Cokey Michaels. That isn't the same one. Yeah, yeah. How long has he been working for you, lover?

[Laura Riker]

He didn't work for me. He was employed by my husband.

[John J. Malone]

Doing what?

[Laura Riker]

I can't imagine.

[John J. Malone]

Well, I can tell you he was keeping tabs on you.

[Laura Riker]

I don't believe it.

[John J. Malone]

You were seeing a boy named George Cromwell, weren't you?

[Laura Riker]

Who?

[John J. Malone]

George Cromwell.

[Laura Riker]

No.

[John J. Malone]

You better be careful in your answers, Mrs. Riker. You know Cromwell was murdered last night. Do you think she did it? No. I think her husband killed him and then she went to work on her husband.

[Laura Riker]

You're insane.

[John J. Malone]

You weren't stepping out with this George Cromwell?

[Laura Riker]

On my word of honor.

[John J. Malone]

Michael says otherwise. I wonder why. So long, Mr. Drinker. You're going over to see Michaels. Malone, you're wasting your time. I've already had a crack at him. I'm glad to hear that, Lieutenant. Then you certainly can't begrudge me my turn at vat. Hey, Larry, let me have another shot, will you? Be right with you, Michael. Can I buy you one? What matter? Nichols? Michaels. Don't you remember me? Sure I remember you, Mr. Moss. We sit down at a table. You sit down. I like your spine. If you drink my cozy. Believe the bottle, Larry. Take it out of this falling money. You must be doing all right. The last time I saw you, it was my tough luck. What do you want, Malone? Just came from police headquarters. Did you? Yeah, representing a Lady, you know, Laura Riker. Hey, careful, Michael. You're gonna spill that drink all over you. Look, Malone, I don't know anything about the Riker case. That's not what Lieutenant Brooks told me. I don't care what he told you. Did Riker kill George Cromwell? Oh, Cromwell. Didn't you ever hear the name before? No. That's funny. You claimed Mrs. Riker was stepping out with him. Did I? You're an awfully difficult man to get anything out of nowadays. Aye, that. The truth wasn't always like this. Time marches on ya. Really. It's just that the surroundings aren't conducive to good talk. Suppose we take a little stroll outside. And nothing. Come on, Michael. Hey, Larry, you want me? Yeah. Come over here and bring that bunk stouter, will you? Madam, you looking for trouble? Not me. Well, good night, Michael. See you around. Oh, you're not leaving. Yeah. I can tell when I'm not wanted. You don't have to hit me over the head before I get the idea. Good evening.

[Laura Riker]

Good evening.

[John J. Malone]

Is Mr. Dave Cromwell at home?

[Laura Riker]

No, he isn't.

[John J. Malone]

Are you Mrs. Cromwell?

[Laura Riker]

Yes.

[John J. Malone]

Well, I'm glad I know you. My name is Michaels. Corky Michaels. What's your first name?

[Laura Riker]

Evelyn. Look, Mr. Michaels, if you want to see my husband.

[John J. Malone]

I most certainly do.

[Laura Riker]

Well, I don't expect Dave back till late tonight.

[John J. Malone]

Oh, that's okay. I can wait.

[Laura Riker]

But it might be.

[John J. Malone]

Don't give it a thought. I got plenty of time. I even brought along my own refreshers, see? Hey, you got a glass? Oh, never mind. I don't need light. Yeah. Yeah, that's good.

[Laura Riker]

Not as good as you want with my husband.

[John J. Malone]

Oh, well, that's the secret. The deep, dark secret. You want a drink? Well, suit yourself. Did you ever hear of a man named Carl Reichman?

[Laura Riker]

No.

[John J. Malone]

That's funny. He's been on all the papers. He was murdered last night. I used to work.

[Laura Riker]

Did you?

[John J. Malone]

Yeah. That's what I wanted to see your husband about. You see, they got Mrs. Riker in jail, and I'm afraid it's all my fault.

[Laura Riker]

Get out of here.

[John J. Malone]

What's the matter, Evelyn? Am I such bad company?

[Laura Riker]

Are you gonna get out of here?

[John J. Malone]

Oh, now, baby, where do you think you're gone?

[Laura Riker]

Oh, my arm.

[John J. Malone]

Will you behave? Oh, now sit down there.

[Laura Riker]

Got no right.

[John J. Malone]

Shut up. Hey, your husband certainly keeps late hours, don't he?

[Laura Riker]

I don't think Dave's coming home tonight.

[John J. Malone]

No?

[Laura Riker]

No. Now that I remember, he. He told me that.

[John J. Malone]

He told you what? Hello, pal. We were Just discussing you. What's going on here, darling?

[Laura Riker]

He forced his way in.

[John J. Malone]

My name is Michaels. Mr. Cromwell. I wanted to talk to you. About what? About the Riker case. What about it? Well, suppose you tell them, Mrs. Wo. Huh?

[Laura Riker]

Born of them, darling.

[John J. Malone]

Go on. I want to talk to this gentleman alone.

[Laura Riker]

Sweetheart, you mustn't let yourself go on.

[John J. Malone]

Evelyn.

[Laura Riker]

Hey.

[John J. Malone]

Boy, you certainly got the power. How you doing, huh? You said you want to talk about the Riker case, huh? Oh, oh, yeah, yeah. Well, you know they're holding his Mrs. Yeah, I read the papers. Did you read John J. Malone was representing her? Yeah. So? Well, so he's quite a boy. All he needs is a little lead and boom. I bet he gets the answer just like. Like that. What is the answer, Mr. Michael? Well, it goes back to your brother's murder. How's that? Ah, quit acting. Surprise, Cromwell. We both know Riker killed him. You know, I was there. What? Hey, hey, cut it out. You're choking me. I. I swear I didn't know what Riker was gonna do. All right, talk. Well, somebody gave Riker a bum steer. He thought his wife was seeing your brother, and all the while it was me. Yeah, I guess you must have used your brother's apartment for the meeting place. What was the name of this somebody who tipped off Riker? I don't know. I. I think he had a private. You're a lion. No. Come on, Michaels, admit it. You were the one who brought RER to my brother. No, I swear. Get up, Michael. We're going to play 20 questions.

[Laura Riker]

Who is it?

[John J. Malone]

Only me, Laura. Thanks, Sydney.

[Laura Riker]

Well, isn't he amazing? Mr. Malone, I didn't expect you back tonight.

[John J. Malone]

I didn't expect to be back.

[Laura Riker]

Did you accomplish anything?

[John J. Malone]

Yes and no.

[Laura Riker]

How is that supposed to mean?

[John J. Malone]

I figured out a way to prove your innocence.

[Laura Riker]

Can you?

[John J. Malone]

Yes, indeed.

[Laura Riker]

How?

[John J. Malone]

All you got to do is submit to an injection of sodium amytol.

[Laura Riker]

A what?

[John J. Malone]

It's what they call the truth serum.

[Laura Riker]

Oh, no.

[John J. Malone]

Come on, lover. What can you lose?

[Laura Riker]

Seems to me you used that line before. I thought those kind of tests weren't admissible in court.

[John J. Malone]

They aren't.

[Laura Riker]

Well, then what good is it?

[John J. Malone]

Maybe I just want to convince myself. What do you say, Laura?

[Laura Riker]

I always thought I was a pretty accomplished liar. Hang on your hypodermic, Malone. I think I can beat it.

[John J. Malone]

We'll be ready to roll in a minute. Come, Counselor. Good.

[Laura Riker]

Say hello.

[John J. Malone]

Yeah.

[Laura Riker]

I'm gonna donate my life to science. Don't you think I'm entitled to know how this truth serum routine works.

[John J. Malone]

That's fairly simple, Laura. It all hinges on your unconscious mind. The doc's gonna give you an injection of sodium amytol. That'll make you feel drowsy. But even then, your unconscious sometimes continues to function. And the sodium amytol releases the brake.

[Laura Riker]

You mean I couldn't hold out on you even if I wanted to?

[John J. Malone]

Well, there are no guarantees with this deal. All right, Doctor. Whenever you're ready.

[Laura Riker]

I'm ready now, Mr. Malone.

[John J. Malone]

Will you hold out your arm? Mrs. Wagner. This won't hurt us.

[Laura Riker]

Ow. Sorry.

[John J. Malone]

Now, will you start counting backwards slowly from a hundred.

[Laura Riker]

99, 98, 97, 96, 95, 93, 94, 91, 90.

[John J. Malone]

She's off now. Okay, go ahead. What's your name?

[Laura Riker]

Laura Reich.

[John J. Malone]

Where were you born? In New York. How long did you live there?

[Laura Riker]

So I was 17. Three of us in a little hole in the wall. You know what it's like to be.

[John J. Malone]

That's why you married your husband.

[Laura Riker]

Yes, I know. It was gonna be worse. I thought I was bettering myself.

[John J. Malone]

Do you know a Kenneth Harrison?

[Laura Riker]

Kenneth hasn't. No. No, I never heard the name before.

[John J. Malone]

How about a George Cromwell?

[Laura Riker]

I know George.

[John J. Malone]

You ever go out with him? No. But you were in love with him.

[Laura Riker]

I couldn't stand.

[John J. Malone]

Do you think your husband killed him?

[Laura Riker]

I don't want to talk about it anymore.

[John J. Malone]

Listen to me, Mrs. Reichman.

[Laura Riker]

I told you I don't want this. Let me alone. Let me alone.

[John J. Malone]

Now, what's the score, Lieutenant? If you pass or flunk. The doc says she lied. About what? She does know a Kenneth Harrison. I thought so. But she was telling the truth when she said she didn't go out with George Cromwell and wasn't in love with him. She wasn't? Nope. Yet Michael swore she was meeting. Wait a minute. Did Cromwell share his apartment with anybody? Nope. Does he have any close friends? Not that we could discover. He seemed to spend most of his time with his brother. His brother? Yeah, a fellow named Dave Cromwell. Tall, well set up lad. Is this brother married? Yeah. Why? Well, that would probably explain why Dave didn't use. Let's go see Michaels. What for? I just want to check on his theory of relativity. Michaels looks like Einstein. In this case, you don't answer. Malone. That's strange. Why? Michaels wasn't in any of the bars. He should be home at this hour. Are you. Don't be funny. I tell you what. Hello? What's the matter? Hey, we haven't run across one of these in ages. The doors unlock. Yeah. Got a match? See the light switch? And that ain't all. Brutal, huh? Yeah. Well, I guess we're not gonna get anything out of Mr. Michaels tonight. Tonight or any night. Call Homicide, Malone. You ought to know the number by this time. You are listening to the Amazing Mr. Malone starring Gene Raymond. Today, as never before, the elementary public school system in America faces a critical situation. The facts are alarming. An increased birth rate during and since the war has resulted in expanded enrollments that will crowd the elementary schools with millions of additional children during the next five years. Immediate action is needed now to cope with the enormously enlarged school population. You can help to assure a proper education for your youngsters by working with local civic groups and school boards actively seeking to improve educational conditions. Remember, better schools make better communities. And now back to the amazing Mr. Malone. Ten minutes later, a detail from Homicide arrived. It was a pleasure to watch them work. They all made like a swarm of bees. But from the way the lieutenant looked, I could see they hadn't found much honey. You still hanging around, Malone? No, I left an hour ago. I wish you'd taken your head with you. Oh, that's a good one, Lieutenant. We must send that to Red Skelton. What's up? Michaels was killed with the same gun used on Riker after someone handed him a shellacking. How would you know that? All I have to do is look at the body. How long has he been dead? Not very well. As I always say, it's an ill wind that blows nobody good. Is that what you always say? Yeah, but Shakespeare probably said it first. What are you babbling about? This lets my client out, does it? Certainly. If both Michaels and Riker were killed with the same gun, how could Mrs. Riker do it? Why couldn't she? What did she use? Thought waves? Well, I was saving it for a surprise. Malone. What? After the State's Attorney heard about the results of the truth serum test, he ordered her release. He what? Yeah. Want to come along while I pick her up? Suppose you come along with me first, remember why we came here originally? To check whether Riker could have killed the wrong Cromwell. Well, Michaels can't do that for us anymore. So let's go to the next best source.

[Laura Riker]

Yes?

[John J. Malone]

Hello, Mrs. Cromwell.

[Laura Riker]

Who are you?

[John J. Malone]

Don't you remember? I was here Thursday night to see your husband about his brother.

[Laura Riker]

Oh, you.

[John J. Malone]

Lieutenant Brooks. And this is John J. Malone. How do you do?

[Laura Riker]

How do you do?

[John J. Malone]

Your husband in?

[Laura Riker]

Well, he's asleep.

[John J. Malone]

Would you mind waking him?

[Laura Riker]

I wouldn't like to. Lieutenant. You know Dave's been under severe strain.

[John J. Malone]

He'll survive. Of course, that's no guarantee. For how long. Where is he? In there.

[Laura Riker]

No, I won't let you disturb it.

[John J. Malone]

No. Cut that out.

[Laura Riker]

Oh.

[John J. Malone]

Hey, get her off of me. Malone. Why all the commotion? You sentence. Well, Mr. Malone and I wanted to talk to you. Yes, indeed. What's the matter, counselor? This is Mr. Kenneth Harrison. What? Well, it's the name he used at my office. You're out of your mind. You know a Laura Rer?

[Laura Riker]

No, he doesn't.

[John J. Malone]

Will you let me handle it? Yeah, I know a Laura Riker. Did you kill her husband?

[Laura Riker]

No.

[John J. Malone]

That's enough. Evil. No, I didn't kill him. Mr. Malone. What about a boy named Cokie Michaels? What about him? He was murdered an hour ago. One lets me out.

[Laura Riker]

Dave's been here all night. I can prove him.

[John J. Malone]

No, you can't. Mrs. Cromwell. The elevator boy says your husband stepped out around 11.

[Laura Riker]

It's only for a paper.

[John J. Malone]

It was for a packet. Cigarette? That's the kid. I was back in five minutes. You better come along with me, Dave.

[Laura Riker]

No, I won't let you take him away.

[John J. Malone]

For Pete's sake, Evelyn.

[Laura Riker]

I won't let them do it. I killed him, Lieutenant.

[John J. Malone]

What?

[Laura Riker]

I killed Mr. Reichard. Mr. Michael.

[John J. Malone]

You forgot Robin. Come on, Cromwell, you got to believe me.

[Laura Riker]

I did it. Honest, I did.

[John J. Malone]

She ain't kidding. What? What's the matter with you, Cromwell? Didn't you know you should have? He did it for. Say, malone, why did Mrs. Cromwell kill riker and Michael? You're amazing. Well, why did she? 5 seconds where the woman should have told you the reason. She was crazy about her husband. So she commits two murders? Sure. Both Riker and Michaels were a threat to the man she loved. She had no more compunction about knocking them off than you would have about squashing a mosquito that was biting your kid. I ain't got a kid. It's not my fault. Now, don't tell me she beat up Michaels, too. No, that was her husband's work. But after Dave got through with him, she followed Michaels home and let him have it. And all along she knew about Dave and Mrs. Riker. Yep. And she never complained. That kind of woman never does. What a gal. How'd you spot her? Simple. The elevator boy could cover for Dave's alibi. Why couldn't she? All right, Mr. Bones. Why couldn't she? Elementary. She wasn't there. And if she wasn't, she was the only one left in the case who had a motive. And Opportunity. I still don't see why it couldn't have been Laura Riker. Because both Riker and Michaels were killed with the same gun. And since Laura didn't kill her husband, who said so? What about that sodium Amatol we shot into her? Oh, yeah. You know, I forgot about that. Malone. Ain't that truth serum a marvelous gimmick? Certainly is. I'm glad you thought of it. We ought to use it more often. Over my dead body. That's the sort of things that could put us all out of business. Good night, Lieutenant. You ever hear the story of the Timoth soul who never took a chance in his life and he bought himself a gun? You'd be surprised at the difference it made. In no time at all, he was ready to shoot the work. I'll tell you all about it next week. So why not pick me up in my office at the same time? I'll be waiting for you. Good night. Gene Raymond was starred as John J. Malone with Henry Morgan as Lieutenant Brooke. Our program is written by Gene Wang and directed by William P. Rousseau. Music by Battle adlam. The amazing Mr. Malone is based on a character created by Craig Rice and produced by Bernard L. Shubert. The events and characters depicted in this story were entirely fictional. And any resemblance to actual places of people, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. And now, this is Dick 2 Feld inviting you to lynch him. Next week, the amazing Mr. Malone has come to you from Hollywood. This is ABC, the American Broadcasting Company.

[Sherlock Holmes]

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 Petri family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invite you to listen to Dr. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And while you're settling back comfortably in your chair, mind if I tell you about something I'd like you to share with me? It's a glass of Petri California Sherry. Of course, most people think of Petri California Sherry as the one wine that's really swell anytime. But personally, I like a glass of that Petri sherry just before dinner. You know, that's the time you're a little on edge. You've just finished your day's work and you're waiting for your dinner. And, well, that's when you want to lean back and take it easy. And, boy, that's the Time. A glass of Petri sherry tastes like something just too good to be true.

[John J. Malone]

Try it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Petri sherry is the perfect before dinner wine. And incidentally, if you like your sherry dry, you know, not sweet, then you'll find that Petri pale dry sherry is just made for you. The important thing is the Petri label because when it says Petri, it always means good wine. And now for our weekly visit with our good friend and host, Dr. Watson. Good evening, doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Good evening, Mr. Bartel. You're a bit late. I've been keeping some dinner hot for you. Here, pull up your chair and join me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's very nice of you. Thanks. Doctor, are you all set with tonight's story?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, my boy, I'm all set, as you call it. Matter of fact, I was going over my notes on the case just before you arrived last week.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You hinted that a beautiful girl figured prominently in your adventure.

[Dr. Watson]

That's quite right, Mr. Bartel. An extremely beautiful girl. In fact, I often used to say to Sherlock Holmes that if I'd been a little younger at the time, I might always. You haven't come here to listen to my personal reminiscences. You want to hear the story that I called the Problem of Tor Bridge.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's what you promised us, Doctor. How did it begin?

[Dr. Watson]

On a windy morning in October in the 1890s, it was. As I was dressing, I observed how the last remaining leaves were being whirled away from the solitary plane tree which graced the yard behind our Baker street house. I descended to breakfast, prepared to find my companion in depressed spirits. For like all great artists, he was easily impressed by his surroundings. But to my surprise, he was in an unusually gay mood. As I entered the room, he looked up at me and with a smile.

[John J. Malone]

Good morning, my dear fellow. Hope you slept well.

[Dr. Watson]

Splendidly. Hank.

[E]

Tom, I'm so glad.

[Dr. Watson]

You were very solicitous this morning. I. I think you must have got a new case. Am I right?

[E]

The faculty of deduction is certainly contagious. Yes, I have a new case. After a month of trivial and stagnation, the wheels revolve once more.

[Dr. Watson]

Good. Tell me all about it.

[E]

Well, as yet, there isn't much to tell. Have you ever heard of Neil Gibson?

[Dr. Watson]

Neil Gibson? Yes. It has something to do with gold mining, isn't he?

[E]

Great deal to do with it, my dear fellow. In fact, he's considered the greatest mining magnet in the world. About five years ago, he bought a large estate in Hampshire. Perhaps you've read of the tragic death of his wife.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, yes, of course. I remember the case now. She was murdered by a jealous governess who was in her employ. Wasn't you?

[E]

That point will be decided when the lady in question, Grace Dunbar I believe her name is, comes up for trial at the forthcoming Winchester assizes. In any case it's hard for me to see what I can do for my client at this late date.

[Dr. Watson]

Your client?

[E]

Oh yes, I forgot I hadn't told you. I'm getting into your involved habit of telling a story backwards. Better read this letter came this morning.

[Dr. Watson]

Let's have a look. Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, Ms. Dunbar is innocent. I can't see the finest woman in the world go to her death without doing everything possible to save her. I shall call on you at 10:30 tomorrow morning to discuss the matter. Yours faithfully, Neil Gibson. Good gracious me.

[E]

There you have it Watson. That is the gentleman I await.

[Dr. Watson]

Do you know anything about his dead wife?

[E]

Only what I've been reading in the papers. Apparently she was past her prime. Which was the more unfortunate as this Ms. Dunbar who superintended the education of the two young children is reputed to be a very attractive young lady.

[Dr. Watson]

The eternal triangle eh? Where did the murder take place?

[E]

On Gibson's estate in Hampshire. His wife was found in the grounds nearly half a mile from the manor house late at night clad in her dinner dress with a shawl over her shoulders and a revolver bullet through her brain.

[Dr. Watson]

Any weapon found near her?

[E]

No, there were no clues found at the scene of the crime.

[Dr. Watson]

What made them suspect the governess?

[E]

Well in the first place there was some very incriminating evidence. A revolver with one discharged chamber, the caliber corresponding with a bullet in the dead woman's head was found on the floor in Ms. Dunbar's wardrobe.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh was it? Pretty damaging evidence Holmes.

[E]

So the coroner thought. And to make the case even blacker against Ms. Dunbar the dead woman had a note on her making an appointment at that very spot and the note was signed by the governess.

[Dr. Watson]

It seems obvious that the girl's guilty and the motive's clear. Mr. Gibson would be a great catch for a young girl. Love, fortune, power, all dependent on one life.

[E]

Impossibly Watson but circumstantial evidence can be very misleading at times. Now as the gentleman in question, unless I'm very much mistaken considerably before he.

[Dr. Watson]

I can see him from the window here. Formidable looking fella. Must be well over six foot tall.

[E]

Judging by the way he's wrenching at that doorbell. He's a man with a violent temper.

[Dr. Watson]

Mrs. Hudson's opening the door to him now.

[E]

Meet him on the stairs, will you old chap? It'll save Mrs. Hudson a journey.

[Dr. Watson]

Up here, sir. Thank you, Ms. Hudson. All right.

[F]

Are you Mr. Sherlock Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

No, no indeed. I'm his colleague, Dr. Watson. Come along in, won't you?

[E]

Mr. Neil Gibson, I presume?

[F]

That's right. So you're the great Sherlock Holmes, huh?

[E]

The adjective is your own, Mr. Gibson. Sit down, won't you? By the way, you may speak quite freely in front of Dr. Watson.

[John J. Malone]

Hmm.

[F]

Well I may as well begin by telling you that money means nothing to me in this case. You can burn it if it's any use to you in lighting the truth. Ms. Dunbar is innocent and it's up to you to prove it.

[E]

Just Name your fee, Mr. Gibson. My professional charges are on a fixed scale. I don't vary them except when I omit them altogether.

[F]

Very well. I imagine that you read the newspaper reports of the coroner's inquest.

[E]

Yes, very thoroughly.

[F]

I don't see that I can add anything that'll help you but if there are any questions you'd like to ask I'll answer them.

[Laura Riker]

Thank you.

[E]

First, what were the exact relations between you and Ms. Dunbar?

[F]

I suppose you're within your rights in asking such questions, Mr. Holmes? We will agree to suppose so.

[E]

Shall we then?

[F]

I can assure you that my relations with Ms. Dunbar were always those of an employer towards a young lady with whom he never conversed or even saw except in the company of his children.

[E]

Oh, rather a busy man Mr. Gibson and I have no time or taste for aimless conversation. I wish you good morning.

[F]

What the devil do you mean by this, Mr. Holmes?

[E]

My dear sir, the case is difficult enough without your giving me false information.

[F]

Meaning that I lie, sir.

[E]

I was trying to express it as delicately as possible but if you insist on the word I won't contradict you.

[Dr. Watson]

Why you confound me.

[E]

Don't be noisy, Mr. Gibson. Please don't be noisy. I find that after breakfast even the smallest argument is unsettling. I suggest that a stroll in the morning air and a little quiet thought will be greatly to your advantage.

[F]

I suppose I can't make you take the case but you've done yourself no good this morning, Mr. Holmes. I've broken stronger men than you. No man ever crossed me and was the better for.

[E]

Good morning, Mr. Gibson. You've a great deal yet to learn.

[Dr. Watson]

My soul, Holmes. You run usually severe with him.

[E]

I dislike liars, Watson, and I cannot tolerate arrogance, particularly when it's coupled with great wealth.

[Dr. Watson]

Well how did you know about his relations with the Governor.

[E]

I didn't. It was pure bluff.

[Dr. Watson]

Bluff? Well it's certainly worked. Think he'll come back?

[E]

Of course he will. He needs my help too badly. He'll probably change his mind before he's halfway down the stairs.

[Dr. Watson]

Come in.

[E]

Ah, Mr. Gibson. Just saying to Dr. Watson that I was certain you'd be back.

[F]

I've been thinking it over Mr. Holmes and I feel that perhaps I was hasty in taking your remarks amiss. Just the same I can assure you that the relations between Ms. Dunbar and me really don't affect this case.

[E]

Surely that is for me to decide Mr. Gibson.

[Dr. Watson]

You see Mr. Gibson my friend is like a doctor. He wants every symptom before he can give his diagnosis.

[F]

Fire away Mr. Holmes. What is it you want to know?

[E]

The truth.

[F]

I can give it to you in very few words. To begin with I met my wife when I was gold mining in Brazil.

[Dr. Watson]

Your wife was Brazilian by birth, wasn't she sir?

[F]

Yes Doctor, and very beautiful. Well to make a long story short.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I fell in love and married her.

[F]

And brought her to England. After a few years I realized that we had nothing, absolutely nothing in common.

[E]

And then I suppose this young governess, Ms. Dunbar arrived on the scene.

[F]

That's right Mr. Holmes. Well the story should be obvious to you from there.

[Dr. Watson]

You fell in love with this girl.

[F]

I suppose sir, who could help it?

[E]

Did you suggest marriage to her? Yes.

[F]

Though I knew that my wife would never divorce me.

[E]

I see. Then you made an utterly insincere proposition to her.

[F]

Now look here Mr. Holmes, I came to you on a question of evidence not of morals. I'm not asking for your criticism.

[E]

It's only the young lady's sake that forces me to touch your case at all. Now tell me sir, what is your own opinion as to Ms. Dunbar's guilt?

[F]

It's very black against her. I can't deny that one explanation of the tragedy did come into my head. Mr. Holmes. I give it to you for what it's worth.

[E]

Pray continue Mr. Gibson.

[F]

My wife was bitterly jealous. She was half crazy with hatred. She might have planned to murder Ms. Dunbar or we'll say to threaten the girl with a revolver and so frighten her into leaving us. There might have been a struggle in which the gun exploded and gone off and shot my wife who was holding it.

[E]

Well that possibility has already occurred to me. It's the only obvious alternative to deliberate murder.

[Dr. Watson]

The revolver, Holmes was found on the floor of the governess's wardrobe.

[E]

Mr. Gibson, I should like to examine your house and the scene of the murder as soon as possible.

[F]

Certainly Mr. Holmes. Sergeant Coventry of the local police are still down there. He'll give you any help you may need.

[E]

Excellent. Watson old fellow. I'm out with the timetable. We're catching the next fast train to Winchester.

[G]

So if I have to have someone else on the case I'd rather have you Mr. Holmes. The yard gets called in then then we local police loses all credit for success. Generally gets blamed for the failures. Though I've heard that you play straight.

[E]

I never appear in the matter at all. Sergeant Coventry. If I can clear it up. I don't ask to even have my name mentioned.

[G]

That's handsome of you I'm sure. And I know your friend Dr. Watson can be trusted too.

[Dr. Watson]

Don't worry my dear fellow, we won't steal any of your thunder.

[G]

That's nice and friendly of you Doctor. Well come on gentlemen, I'll walk you down to the bridge. That's where we found Mrs. Gibson's body. It's not far from the house here.

[Dr. Watson]

Well I must say Mr. Gibson has a beautiful estate. It must be 60 or 70 acres.

[G]

Oh nearly twice that Doctor. The woods back of the house there belongs to him too. Mr. Holmes?

[E]

Yes Sergeant?

[G]

There's a question I'd like to ask you. A question I wouldn't ask anyone else.

[E]

And please ask it.

[G]

Don't you think there might be a case against Mr. Gibson himself, sir?

[E]

I've been considering that possibility but there.

[G]

Ms. Dunbar's a bit of all right if you ask me. He wanted his wife out of the way and the pistol she was shot with was his pistol, you know.

[Dr. Watson]

Was. Was that fact proven?

[G]

Yes Doctor. It was one of a pair that he had.

[E]

One of a pair? Where's the other?

[G]

Well Mr. Gibson has a lot of firearms. We never quite matched that particular pistol but the box was made for two.

[Dr. Watson]

Well if it was one of a pair surely you'd be able to match it?

[G]

Well we have them all laid out at the house if you want to look them over.

[E]

We'll do that later. Ah, this I presume is tor bridge?

[G]

That's right sir. Found Mrs. Gibson's body lying right here at the approach to the bridge.

[E]

I see. I gathered from the newspaper reports that the shot was fired at very close quarters.

[G]

Yes sir, very close.

[E]

Near the right temple wasn't it?

[G]

Just behind it, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

How did the body lie Sergeant?

[G]

Oh on spec, Doctor. No trace of a struggle, no marks, no weapon. The note from Ms. Dunbar was clutched in her left hand.

[E]

Clutched you say?

[G]

Yes, sir, we could hardly open the fingers to get at it.

[E]

Ah, that's of greatest importance. It excludes the idea that anyone could have placed the note there after death in order to furnish a false clue.

[Dr. Watson]

What did the note say Sergeant?

[G]

Little enough, Doctor. It just said I will be at tor Bridge at 9 o'.

[John J. Malone]

Clock.

[G]

And it was signed Grace Dunbar.

[E]

Ms. Dunbar admit writing it?

[G]

Oh yes sir.

[E]

What was her explanation?

[G]

She wouldn't say nothing. Said she was saving her defence for the trial.

[E]

Yes, it seems odd that Mrs. Gibson was still clutching that note.

[Dr. Watson]

Seems perfectly natural to me.

[E]

Oh come now old fellow, argue the thing out logically. If the letter is genuine it was certainly received sometime before the tragedy, say an hour or two. Why then was the dead woman still clasping it in her left hand? Why should she carry it so carefully? She certainly didn't need to refer to the note at all at the interview. Doesn't it strike you as rather strange?

[Dr. Watson]

Well now you put it that way it does seem a little peculiar.

[John J. Malone]

Hello.

[E]

Did you notice this Sergeant?

[G]

Oh you mean that chip out of that stone on the underside of the parapet of the bridge, sir? Yes I noticed it. Didn't think nothing of it though.

[Dr. Watson]

Very large chip.

[E]

Yes, but it's been done recently. That is how the stonework is white just here. It took some violence to do that. And me a cane bottom will you?

[Laura Riker]

Yes, the hard knock.

[E]

And in a curious place too.

[G]

But it's 15ft from where we found the body. Mr. Down.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes Holmes. I don't see how it could have any connection with Mrs. Gibson's murder.

[E]

It hasn't, but it's a point worth noting. There were no footprints you say Sergeant?

[G]

None Mr. Holmes. The ground was as hard as our and it's been a very dry summer. We haven't had any rein to speak of this today.

[E]

Well Sergeant, I'm much obliged to. And now I think we'll get back to the house.

[G]

Cesar?

[John J. Malone]

Sure.

[G]

Where the firearms are sir.

[E]

Oh, who is Cesar?

[G]

Funny kind of a bloke. Brazilian he is.

[E]

Brazilian, eh? Like Mrs. Gibson?

[G]

Yes Mr. Holmes. Comes from the same town that she does as a matter of fact. Something very fishy about him if you ask me. Now if you'll excuse me gentlemen I'm going to take a little stroll around the grounds. You started me on a new train of thought in this case Mr. Holmes.

[E]

I'm delighted. Sergeant. Get back to the house.

[John J. Malone]

I see.

[E]

And these are all the firearms in Mr. Gibson's possession, eh Cesar?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Except for the revolver that is missing from the case. Yes Sir. I say I see him.

[Dr. Watson]

I've never seen such a collection of guns and revolvers in my life.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Gibson had many enemies senor. He always sleep with a loaded pistol beside his bed. She's a man of great violence. There have been times when all of us were afraid of him.

[E]

Did you ever witness physical violence towards Mrs. Gibson?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No senor, I cannot say that I have. But I have heard him say many terrible things to her. She would taunt her in front of we servants. I have heard him do it many times.

[E]

Thank you Cesar, that will be all. Mount.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Obeying senor.

[Dr. Watson]

You know Holmes, I still think the case against Ms. Dunbar looks very black.

[E]

I should agree with you if it were not for one fact. The finding of the revolver in her.

[Dr. Watson]

Wardrobe on the soul Holmes that seems to me the strongest evidence of all.

[E]

I think not old chap. We must look for consistency. Where there is a want of it we must suspect deception.

[Dr. Watson]

I don't quite follow you.

[E]

Suppose for a moment that we visualize you in the character of a woman who in cold premeditated fashion is about to murder a rival.

[John J. Malone]

You've planned it.

[E]

A note has been written. The victim has come. You have a. A weapon. The crime is well done. It has been workmanlike and complete. You mean to tell me that after carrying out your crafty crime you'd be so stupid as to forget to fling the incriminating revolver to the bottom of the stream or perhaps in the dense reeds that border it. Would you carefully carry it home and put it in the first place that would be searched?

[Dr. Watson]

Your wardrobe? Well perhaps in the excitement of the moment.

[E]

One my dear chap, I won't admit that's even possible. When a crime is coolly premeditated then the means of covering it are coolly premeditated also.

[Dr. Watson]

Well then if Ms. Dunbar didn't shoot Mrs. Gibson, who the devil did?

[E]

I hope I can give you the answer to that question Watson when we've made one further visit.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh Lord. Where are we going now?

[E]

To prison. Old chapter. Yes, we are going to Winchester Prison to call on Ms. Dunbar. I'm certain that the key to this strange mystery lies in her hands.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You'll hear the rest of Dr. Watson's story in just a few seconds. Just time enough for me to remind you that the easiest way to make good food taste better is to serve that good food with a good Petri wine. If you like a red wine, well you want a Petri California Burgundy. If you'd rather have a white wine then you want a Petri California Sauterne.

[Laura Riker]

But red or white?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Petri, Burgundy or Petri Sauternes. You're choosing a dinner wine that's sure to turn a simple meal into a feast. Your whole family and all your friends will love Petrie, the wine that makes good food taste better. And now back to Dr. Watson and tonight Sherlock Holmes. Adventure the Problem of Tor Bridge. Well Doctor, did you go to Winchester prison and see Ms. Dunbar?

[Dr. Watson]

We did, Mr. Bartell. An hour later found the two of us sitting in a dank and gloomy cell talking to one of the most beautiful girls that I've ever seen. Her bright flashing eyes and her air of quiet confidence seemed sadly out of place in such a setting. Holmes spoke to her quietly, soothingly.

[Laura Riker]

Ms. Dunbar, tell us of your true.

[E]

Relations with the dead woman.

[H]

She hated me, Mr. Holmes. She hated me with all the passion of her distorted mind.

[E]

Please tell us exactly what happened on the evening of Mrs. Gibson's death.

[H]

Well I, I received a note from.

[Laura Riker]

Her in the morning.

[H]

A note imploring me to meet her at the bridge after dinner that night. She said she had something important to say to me.

[Dr. Watson]

Did you keep that note, Ms. Dunbar?

[H]

No doctor, she, well she asked me to destroy the note so I burned it in the schoolroom grate. I saw no reason for such secrecy but, well I, I did as she asked.

[E]

And yet she kept your reply very carefully. It's interesting. Tell me what happened when you met her that night.

[H]

When I reached the bridge she was waiting for me. I, I won't tell you what she said but she poured out her whole wild fury and burning horrible words. I didn't answer. I couldn't. It was dreadful even to look at her. She was like an insane woman standing there screaming disgusting insults at me. I, I put my hands to my ears and rushed away.

[Dr. Watson]

Where was she standing when you left her?

[H]

Within a few yards of the spot where her body was found later.

[E]

And yet presuming she met her death shortly after you left her, you heard no shot?

[H]

No, no, I heard nothing. But I was so upset, Mr. Holmes, that I rushed straight back to my room.

[E]

Did you leave it again that night?

[Laura Riker]

Yes.

[H]

When the alarm came that Mrs. Gibson was dead I ran out with the others.

[Dr. Watson]

Did you see Mr. Gibson?

[H]

Yes doctor. He had just returned from the bridge when I saw him. He had sent for the doctor and the police.

[E]

This pistol that you found in your room, have you ever seen it before?

[H]

Never Mr. Holmes, I swear it.

[Dr. Watson]

When was it found, Ms. Dunbar?

[H]

Next morning when the police made their search. It was on the floor of my wardrobe where I keep my shoes.

[E]

You had no idea how long it had been there?

[H]

Well it hadn't been there the morning before.

[John J. Malone]

How do you know?

[H]

Because I had tidied up the wardrobe that day.

[E]

I see. Then someone must have come into your room and placed the there in order to incriminate you.

[H]

I'm certain of it.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh well now when could they have done that?

[H]

Well it, it could have been at meal times or when I was in the school room with the children.

[E]

Yes Ms. Dunbar? On examining, examining the scene of Mrs. Gibson's death I noticed that a piece of stonework on the underside of the parapet of the bridge had been broken away. Can you suggest any possible explanation for that?

[H]

Oh surely it must have been a mere coincidence Mr. Holmes.

[E]

Possibly. But why should it appear at the very time of the tragedy and at the very place? Could it possibly be? Why yes of course. Idiot. Why didn't I think of it before? Come along Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Where are we going Holmes?

[E]

Back to Thor Bridge old fellow as fast as we can get there.

[H]

What have you found out Mr. Holmes?

[E]

The answer to this mystery. I hope. My dear young lady you will get news before the day is out. And meanwhile take my assurance that the clouds are lifting and that the light of truth is breaking through.

[G]

Well Mr. Holmes you're soon back here. What have you found out?

[E]

You're on a few moments. You got my message?

[G]

Oh yes sir. Here you are, ball of twine. What you wanted for I can't imagine.

[E]

You'll soon see. Sergeant Watson. I have some recollection that you usually go armed on these excursions of ours.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I'm carrying my revolver. Why?

[E]

Give it to me old chap, will you? Thanks. I believe your revolver may have a very intimate connection with the mystery we're investigating.

[Dr. Watson]

You're joking.

[E]

Now Watson I'm very serious. I have a test to make. The test is successful. Ms. Dunbar will be free before nightfall and the test will depend on the conduct of this revolver of yours. Take the precaution of unloading it.

[John J. Malone]

Uh huh. There we are.

[E]

Now Sergeant, ball of twine please.

[G]

Wish I knew what you was up to sir.

[E]

I tie one into the twine like this to the handle of the revolver. So Sergeant see if you can find me a heavy stone will you?

[G]

Roger sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes what are you doing?

[E]

Trying to reconstruct the killing of Mrs. Gibson. But you've seen me miss the mark before Watson. I have an instinct for such things and yet it has sometimes played me false. Seemed a certainty when it first Flashed across my mind it was Dunbar cell. But one drawback of an active mind is that one can always conceive alternative explanations which would make our scent a false one and yet. Oh well we can but try.

[G]

Isn't I still Mr. Holmes?

[E]

Thank you Sergeant. Now I tie the other end of the twine to the stone. Wait a minute. Like that. Splendid. Sergeant will you please take this stone and stretch the twine across the parapet of the bridge there so that the stone will swing just clear of the water on the other side of the bridge.

[G]

Right Chelsea.

[E]

I'll stand on the spot where Mrs. Gibson's body was found. That's it Sergeant, over the parapet.

[Dr. Watson]

How's that Mr. Holmes? The stone swinging about eight feet above the water.

[E]

Splendid. Now Watson, watch closely. I raise the revolver to my head.

[Dr. Watson]

Careful Holmes, careful.

[E]

Don't worry old chap's not loaded. Now let us imagine I am the late Mrs. Gibson. I raise the revolver to my head and fire it. Instantly my fingers released their gripen. There's your answer Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Great sculpted revolver flashed back out of your hand, struck the parapeter's bridge and then the weight of the stone flipped it over into the water.

[E]

Was there ever a more exact demonstration? Come on old fellow.

[G]

You're a bloomin magician Mr. Holmes, that's what you are, a blooming magician.

[E]

Look at that there, the second chip on the stonework. The parapet here same size as the first.

[Dr. Watson]

Then the murder of Mrs. G wasn't.

[E]

Murder at all, it was suicide. But we can follow the various steps quite clearly. A note was extracted very cleverly from Ms. Dunbar. A note which made it appear that she had chosen the scene of the crime. Mrs. Gibson, in her anxiety that the note should be discovered somewhat overdid it by holding it in her hand to the last. That alone should have excited my suspicions earlier than it did.

[Dr. Watson]

So she stole one of her husband's.

[G]

Revolvers and spotted the other one in Ms. Dunbar's wardrobe.

[E]

Exactly. After discharging one of the cartridges which you could easily do in the woods without attracting suspicion. She then went down to the bridge where she contrived this exceedingly ingenious method of getting rid of her weapon. When Ms. Dunbar appeared she used her last breath in pouring out her hatred. And then when the girl had left carried out her terrible purpose.

[G]

Then the missing revolver.

[E]

You'll find it with the aid of a grappling hook at the bottom of the stream. And also the stone and the string with which this vindictive woman attempted to disguise her own crime and fasten A charge of murder on an innocent victim.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes Sergeant. And don't forget while you're at it that my revolver's down there too.

[G]

Oh don't worry Doctor, I'll get some grappling hooks right away.

[Dr. Watson]

I must say Holmes, you solved this case brilliantly, quite brilliantly.

[E]

I disagree old chap. And I fear that you will not improve my reputation by adding the case of the Tor Bridge mystery to your annals.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh nonsense. But that's ridiculous.

[E]

Oh no it isn't old boy. I've been sluggish in my mind and wanting in that mixture of imagination and reality which is the very basis of my art. I confess that the chip in the stone work was a sufficient clue to suggest the true solution and I blame myself for not having attained it sooner.

[Dr. Watson]

Well Holmes, personally I agree with the Sergeant's opinion of you.

[E]

Oh, what was that old fellow?

[Dr. Watson]

You're a blooming magician, Mr. Holmes, that's what you are, a blooming magician.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well Dr. Holmes really was a magician. That is if you did find Mrs. Gibson's revolver and your own in the.

[Dr. Watson]

School, you find them all right. You don't think I'll tell you the story otherwise, do you? What do you take before, anywhere?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well now that you ask, I'll tell you. I take you for a very charming gentleman, a wonderful storyteller and a fine host. Well you are a gentleman of the old school and you do tell a fine story.

[Dr. Watson]

You flatter me. You.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you are a perfect host. That meal we had tonight was wonderful.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh it was, huh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

And that, that wine, what kind was it?

[Dr. Watson]

It was Petri wine and you know it. And I should have known that you were leading up to something. Mr. Bartel, you should be ashamed of yourself. You will do anything to get a chance to talk about Petri wine. I can't say I blame you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Honestly Doctor, I meant everything I said. But you don't really want me to stop talking about Petri wine, do you? After all it's worth talking about, isn't it? What other wine is made with a loving care that goes into Petri wine? Don't forget Petri wine is made by the Petri family. Wine making is their business. Why they've been making wine for generations, handing down from father to son, from father to son, all their skill and knowledge and experience. You can be sure the Petri family really knows plenty about the fine art of turning luscious grapes into delicious wine. That's why whether you want a wine for before dinner, with dinner or for any time you can't go wrong with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine. And now, Dr. Watson, what new story are you planning to tell us next week?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, next week, Mr. Bartell, I'm going to tell an adventure that Holmes and I had amid the Oriental magnificence of. Of a maharaja's palace in India.

[Sherlock Holmes]

India sounds intriguing. What were you and Sherlock Holmes doing out there, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, you'll have to wait till next week the answer to that question. But I can tell you that it was one of the weirdest problems that we ever had to solve. I call the story the Vanishing Elephant.

[Laura Riker]

Foreign.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Sherlock Holmes Adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and is adapted from the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story the Problem of Tour Bridge. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn mayor 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.

[John J. Malone]

Oh, the Petri family took the time to bring you such good wine. So when you eat and when you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Cook, remember Petri wine to make good food taste better.

[John J. Malone]

Remember Petri.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petri family. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.