
The first story on this week's Case Closed is Georgia On Her Mind, by The Sounds Of Darkness. That one aired August 11, 1962. (21:02) Next up is The Darlington Substitution Case, the January 4, 1947, episode of The New Adventures Of Sherlock Holmes. https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/e55e1c7a-e213-4a20-8701-21862bdf1f8a/CaseClosed930.mp3 Download CaseClosed930 | Subscribe | Spotify | Support Case Closed Your donation of any [...]
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Welcome back to Case Closed Mystery and Crime from the Golden Age of Radio. Every Wednesday@ Relicradio.com our first story comes from the Sounds of Darkness. This week from August 11, 1967, we'll hear Georgia on Her Mind. After that, it's the New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and the Darlington Substitution Case. That story aired January 4, 1947.
Lee Masters
The sounds of darkness. Lee Masters, FBI, who wages relentless war against crime. Lee Masters, the blind detective who challenges the sounds of darkness. Savior.
Narrator
Tonight, Georgia in her mind.
Johnny Bridges
Reckon it'll work?
Lee Masters
Works on television, doesn't it? Very funny. The thing is, mind the incoming cars. What are you talking about?
Phoebe Watkins
Hey, did you see that roadhog?
Lee Masters
Go on. Why don't you? Why don't I what? Ask me how I knew.
Agent
I'm not going to.
Lee Masters
I'm gonna punish you because you've traveled with me before along this highway. You know there's a turnpike here and you're being clever as I'll get out. Just keep me in practice keeping that mental clock of mine working. Which side of the bed here? The wrong. I reckon we're wasting our time going down to Vermont. I don't sure it's your idea. All we have to do. All we have to do is slip up on one item and she won't talk. Then we mustn't slip up. Look, you take a day. A woman called Andre Kucheska, Lithuanian, works in New York. He's known to be a courier for the Reds. Has been fingered but will not break. Can't be brought to trial, can't be deported. No evidence. We want to break her because you and Curtis Blumenthal of CIA and Ames happen to think something's coming up in Canada.
Doctor
Okay.
Lee Masters
Canadian boys think the same. They want to our assistant. So we staged an elaborate bit of nonsense to get her to talk. That's right. Even if it works, what can she tell us what we want to know? She is a courier. No, she's more than that. Andre Kucheska is a full blooded Soviet agent. Now she tells me. Okay, if we know that, kick her out, put her inside. No. Why not? Because she knows something's coming up. That's why we want her broken fast. We're up against a wall shooter. Or tender. Archaic, but effective this day and age. Oh, okay. Georgia, here we come. Georgia. USSR and she's due to come to in about five minutes. You know the layout of this place? Back rooms. This place here, which is the kind of kitchen. And the room there where she is. Andrew, at no time will you come into this anteroom until called. I'm sorry, gentlemen, but the game could be given away. Sure, we know. No need to read us the Gettysburg Address. Come on in, Johnny. Nurse. Captain. From this point on, you are Maria Rudletskaya. I am Yuri Zatko. As in the epic hero. Remember?
Andrea Kucheska
You can't catch me, Yuri.
Lee Masters
Good. Well, let's go in.
Doctor
Smoke.
Lee Masters
I'm giving it up. Can't take it. Trying to stay healthy. Young boys like me can take it. Oh, five minutes. Almost over.
Agent
Mandrake, Korea. One has disappeared. We suspect she has gone visiting saints this morning. We recover.
Lee Masters
If we do not recover monthly, all does not take place.
Agent
Blitz two days. We will find her.
Lee Masters
She must not d recover and liquid. Good afternoon, Andrea Kucheska. Good afternoon, Andra Kucheska. I am Dr. Yuri Zatko. This woman is Maria Ruletskaya.
Andrea Kucheska
Where am I?
Lee Masters
You are not to fret. You are Andra Kucheska. You are home. Andra. Russia. Georgia. Where you spent so many of your young years. Where you met and married your husband, Anatoly Gregin. Yes, of course, we know this. He died here. And that was when you joined us. You're intelligent and you needed occupation. Remember? This was May 1970.
Andrea Kucheska
America. New York, New York. Do not excite yourself, Andre.
Johnny Bridges
What?
Andrea Kucheska
What happened?
Lee Masters
You were working for us in New York. The Americans realized this.
Andrea Kucheska
I know the question. I was walking down the street. Down the street?
Lee Masters
That was two weeks ago. We know all about it. You were walking down a street. A woman bumped into you. You were scratched on the forearm on purpose. A truck. You collapsed. You were taken somewhere. But our embassy heard about it. You were recovered. There was an exchange of gifts, shall we say, between their nation and ours.
Andrea Kucheska
Si. And I am now in Georgia.
Lee Masters
I have said so.
Andrea Kucheska
You have been very ill. The Americans subjected you to many drugs. Drugs?
Lee Masters
Yes. You have been most dear comrade. And you have been indiscreet.
Andrea Kucheska
What? What do you say?
Lee Masters
While you were in American hands, you told them of what was planned for Montreal, Canada. Not your thought. Although we did expect more control until we are able to find you.
Andrea Kucheska
I told them?
Lee Masters
Yes, you told them. Everything is no matter now. Plans were changed. So you will not be punished, Andre Kutcheska. It concerns the current detente with Red China and the possibility of trade missions and perhaps arms exchanges with Red China. Do you remember any such thing?
Nurse
I.
Andrea Kucheska
No, Phil, I'm sick.
Lee Masters
Do not worry about that then. But what you told them about Montreal. Perhaps you will be punished for not standing up to routine questioning.
Andrea Kucheska
I do not.
Lee Masters
I feel Safe, Maria.
Andrea Kucheska
Here, let me give you something to drink. Here.
Lee Masters
Let us concentrate on Montreal then, okay?
Andrea Kucheska
You know about Montreal?
Lee Masters
Of course we know. But Andra, to work for us again, I must know your state of mind, your mental health. Now, Montreal. What did you tell them? What was the diversion planned for Montreal?
Andrea Kucheska
You know this. You know this. Andrea Krucheska, Montreal.
Nurse
Did you know this?
Reginald Tremaine
Help me.
Lee Masters
Please attend to her. I will return in 10 minutes.
Nurse
But Johnny, you had no right to shove off like that. You know I turned on a date for you.
Johnny Bridges
Yeah, I know.
Lee Masters
That's exactly why I'm phoning Phoebe.
Nurse
The name is Phoebe.
Lee Masters
Oh, yeah, okay, okay. Well, look, do you forgive me? Eh, honey, I'm away on business. Be back in three days. I'll look you up then. Huh?
Nurse
What?
Agent
Give me that telephone, please.
Nurse
Who are you? You come busting in here in my apartment? Who are you?
Agent
Feed is gone. You will come with me. Lead me to Johnny Bridges.
Lee Masters
How do you like that? She hangs up on me. What else? That's what I like about this business. I don't even get time to tell all my broads that I'm leaving town. Tough. Phoebe is a lovely girl. So you say. Stacked like Venus de Meoly. And she's got arms. I'll call her again. No, Johnny, not too many calls. Okay. News that's going okay. You guys got any coffee in here? I could have made myself some, but there's some here. How's it going? Ah, so far so good. I got around here to Montreal, but you know, I don't want to press it yet.
Doctor
She's worried.
Lee Masters
I am too. We could give ourselves away so easily. And we're supposed to know what's planned for Montreal. Of course you are. No thanks.
Doctor
Milk, sugar?
Lee Masters
No, it's okay. Thanks.
Doctor
Anyways.
Lee Masters
That's where we're at. Montreal. I've conditioned her to telling me about the diversion first before she gets into trying to talk about some of the other nonsense I've written on mine. This diversion, it's planned for tomorrow.
Narrator
Then you better get it to talk.
Lee Masters
If I can, in my own time. We don't have much time. Now, you guys want me to blow it? I'll go in and give it a third degree. You want that? She will not talk unless it's done my way. You're a head shrinking by profession. A psychiatrist, yes. Oh, that's what I said. It's just that we don't have. We have to know urgently what's planned up there. I know that. I've worked with you. Guys before. At least I'm not you personally, but Curtis Blumenthal and other departments. Okay, I'll try her again. And I cannot rush her. I mean, you guys thought of this from A to Z. You must have known it would take time. We have time until about six tonight. I guess it's now three. Okay. And please don't forget to stay in this room. We have to know thee. We have to know now. Now, for crying out loud.
Agent
You will not be heard. You have only two dogs.
Nurse
I don't know where he is. He said George away.
Agent
That's all where we are now.
Nurse
I saw that. I saw what you did. Young man, I am going to report you to the police. I saw you lift your hand and strike that.
Lee Masters
I saw you.
Nurse
I'm going to report you.
Agent
You are sure this is the town?
Nurse
No, no, I'm not sure. I only know that. Well, Johnny said something about. Well, he didn't say he was going away anyway and that was why I called Lisi. But two nights back he was going on about. Well, he said Georgia. And he said something. Oh, I don't know. Maybe he's boss. Yeah, he said his name Masters. And no, he said Lee Masters will be coming here. I think he's at this town. I just think he's at this town.
Agent
You can go. Open the car door and go.
Nurse
Can I? Oh, can I go?
Agent
Be careful not to walk on the road because walk on this side. The gravel.
Nurse
Oh, yeah. Okay.
Johnny Bridges
Thanks.
Agent
Very well. I will take the outside road, go back into town and try trick. It may work. I have little time for anything else. I'm sorry to have shot such a woman.
Lee Masters
Good body.
Agent
Good arms and hands. A pity.
Lee Masters
Do not excite yourself.
Andrea Kucheska
I do not understand why you must know about Montreal.
Lee Masters
You dare to question me. That is better. Oh, clown. Delicious. Breathe some air. Go to the window. The lovely air of our countryside.
Andrea Kucheska
Is indeed lovely. I do not know this part.
Lee Masters
And you are not to know, my dear.
Andrea Kucheska
Of course not.
Lee Masters
And the cretchescar we are. Yes.
Andrea Kucheska
I. I am not behaving.
Lee Masters
Montreal.
Andrea Kucheska
But you know what happened in Montreal?
Lee Masters
You are being impertinent.
Andrea Kucheska
I'm sorry.
Nurse
So it was truly in New York.
Andrea Kucheska
Two weeks ago that I fell ill.
Lee Masters
That you were abducted? Yes. Now put that paper down. Sit and answer my questions.
Andrea Kucheska
What time is it, please?
Lee Masters
5:00. Or you would like some tea? Some Georgian herb tea? Please, nurse.
Nurse
Of course.
Andrea Kucheska
I'm sorry. My mind has not been clear and I have been insolent. I do apologize. Montreal. Yes, of course.
Lee Masters
I will Tell you all good secret.
Andrea Kucheska
Thank you. My favorite.
Lee Masters
Of course, you are a valued agent, Andre Kucheska. We pander sometimes to the agents we value, but we have wasted time.
Andrea Kucheska
Yes.
Lee Masters
The ashtray is next to you. Begin Montreal.
Andrea Kucheska
Well, as you know, there was to be the attempt on the life of the Canadian Prime Minister. He was to be wounded and evidence laid the the blame, I mean, on the Commercial Trade Union Committee. The purpose, of course, to bring about government attention on the union itself. Perhaps to disband it and allow a new union to form, which would be staffed, of course, by men owing allegiance to the communist cause. Now, this was to have happened did happen. Of course.
Lee Masters
Of course.
Andrea Kucheska
This happened two weeks ago. What was the reaction?
Lee Masters
Most favorable. Most favorable. Bridges.
Agent
Johnny Bridges. Hulkins in town.
Lee Masters
Here.
Agent
You know a dame called Phoebe Watkins. Her body has been found just out of town. She has a bangle thing, name of Johnny on it. Knowing you guys were in the vicinity, I thought could it be you?
Lee Masters
How was she killed?
Agent
Gunned down side of the road. Has she anything to do with the jazz you're up to? You know, the hills up there? Because you might have warned me. I have a job to do. And if your job involved throwing bodies all over the.
Lee Masters
Shut up. Where is she?
Agent
In the morgue.
Lee Masters
Look, I'll call back.
Agent
She was working for you.
Lee Masters
I'll call back, okay?
Agent
Okay. Oh, and I directed someone up to you. A guy called Chalice. One of your boys. A fed.
Lee Masters
Nice guy, Chalice. Describe him to me fast. Thank you, Andre. Francesca, extinguish your cigarette. You may burn your fingers.
Andrea Kucheska
Of course. Oh, most sorry. What is this? Made in New Jersey, usa.
Lee Masters
All the other guys. Nurse, we are blown. Who the devil brought in an ashtray that's made in New Jersey?
Johnny Bridges
Johnny Lee Aims. Get in here.
Agent
Jeska. Please to stand where you are.
Doctor
All of you.
Agent
I am a good shot.
Lee Masters
You killed Phoebe.
Johnny Bridges
Phoebe?
Agent
Oh, that rather gorgeous woman I brought.
Doctor
With me from New York.
Agent
Yes.
Lee Masters
I had no more use of why Johnny. So you called yourself Chalice and posed as a fad. You got a helpful cop to direct you here, naturally.
Agent
Andrea Kucheska? Yes, to one side.
Lee Masters
Listen, whoever you are, you will not shoot me.
Agent
That, of course, is all I wish to accomplish. The death of Andrea Kurcheska. Before she could talk, did she talk about Montreal. Very clever of you to make pretend this a Russian house in Georgia.
Lee Masters
Russia?
Agent
Why? What gave it away?
Lee Masters
An ashtray. A damned ashtray.
Agent
And Andrea reacted like a trained person. She was. And killed that woman, eh? Three women dead. Your girlfriend, Bridgers that woman there and Andre Kucheska. I am afraid I will have to add men to that list of the dead. You did she talk of Montreal?
Lee Masters
Yes.
Agent
I see.
Lee Masters
I'm standing at the end of a loose guard. He's about four feet from me. Maybe on the same thing. The floor I felt as I came. Time to duck. Pull the carpet. Get something going.
Agent
I see. But you will not get this information Too kind of the gentleman who wishes best to die. It does not matter to me.
Johnny Bridges
You still got a gun, Duck.
Lee Masters
I trust that was you shooting him, Johnny? Sure was. That cruddy he killed.
Narrator
Easy on, boy, easy on. I'll phone through to Montreal. Where you have time. Just.
Agent
Doc, come on, let's go.
Lee Masters
My day. Dead people happen, boy, in our business. Okay, Johnny, let's go.
Narrator
The sounds of Darkness is Produced by Brian O'Shaughnessy.
Phoebe Watkins
Kremel Hair Tonic and Kremel Shampoo present the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. Starring Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson and Tom Conway as Sherlock Holmes. Well, once again it's time for that weekly visit with our good friend and host, Dr. Watson. Let's join him, shall we?
Johnny Bridges
Ah, There you are, Mr. Bill.
Phoebe Watkins
Good evening, Dr. Watson. Well, have you quite recovered from your holiday festivities?
Johnny Bridges
I think so, my boy. And I was particularly flattered by the number of friends who were kind enough to remember a rather elderly and lonely doctor at this time of year.
Phoebe Watkins
Well, as long as you keep telling those swell Sherlock Holmes stories, you'll Never.
Lee Masters
Be lonely, Dr. White.
Johnny Bridges
Then I'd better get on with tonight's new adventure. It involved us in one of the most shocking scandals of the 19th century. A scandal that, had it ever emerged in the light of day, might easily have brought ruin and disgrace to one of the most famous men who ever came, a member of the House of Lords.
Phoebe Watkins
This one I've got to hear. But first I have a message for our listeners. Today, more than ever before, I think men realize how important it is to keep their hair neatly groomed. And men, may I ask you this about the preparation you use? Does it give your hair that old fashioned, greasy patent leather look? When you run your hand back over your hair, does your hair feel greasy, sticky or dirty? Does grease come off on your hand or hat band? If it does, then be smart. Men change at once to Kremel Hair Tonic. This highly specialized hair tonic contains a special combination of hair grooming ingredients which is found in no other hair tonic. That's why Kremel keeps your hair in place longer. With such a handsome, well groomed look, when you use Kremel, you can run your hand back over your hair and men, it's really a pleasure. No grease comes off on your hand. And I'm sure you'll enjoy the way Kremel always looks and feels so clean on your hair and scalp. Let it keep your hair looking handsome at all times. Buy a bottle of Kremel at any drug counter. Ask for an application at your barbers. K R E M L Cremel hair tonic. Now, Dr. Watson, how about the 19th century scandal in which you and the great Sherlock Holmes became involved?
Johnny Bridges
Well, Mr. Bell, that adventure began in the very early days of the great man's career. World acclaim and handsome fees were some years ahead of him. And in those times we spent many long evenings discussing whether a decent living could be obtained by the practice of criminal detection. On the day that this particular story began, we just finished our breakfast. Holmes, a curved pipe clenched between his teeth, was scanning the personal columns of the morning paper. I could almost hear him now as.
Doctor
He said, demi Watson, the agony column of the Times is more than usually barren this morning.
Johnny Bridges
Are you looking for a possible client home?
Doctor
Naturally. Since we already owe Mrs. Hudson for two months rent here and our doorbell has been frighteningly silent during that period, I must see what possible service I might render these unhappy correspondents.
Johnny Bridges
Well, I glanced over the column, but I couldn't see anything very promising.
Doctor
No, Watson, it's a rag bag of bizarre happenings.
Lee Masters
What?
Doctor
A chorus of groans, cries and bleatings. One skims through them. And what does one glean lady with a black boa at the Prince's Skating Club wishes to meet Gentleman who was kind enough to. That we may ignore.
Johnny Bridges
I think she doesn't sound as though she needs your services.
Doctor
Surely Jimmy will not break his mother's heart. That appears to be irrelevant if the lady who fainted on the top deck of the Brixton bus. She doesn't interest me either, Watson.
Johnny Bridges
No, probably anyone else who wasn't on that bus.
Doctor
Every day my heart longs for.
Lee Masters
Ah, bleached.
Doctor
Watson, all this twaddle is unmitigated bleach.
Johnny Bridges
Hartley. Holmes, you haven't had a case for over two weeks.
Doctor
Yes. Sometimes I think I chose the wrong profession. What do the public, the great unobservant public who can hardly tell a weaver by his tooth or a compositor's left thumb, care about the finer shades of analysis and deduction? As to my own little practice, it seems to be degenerating into an agency for recovering lost lead pencils. And giving advice to young ladies from boarding schools.
Johnny Bridges
Holmes. Come over here to the window.
Doctor
What's wrong Watson?
Johnny Bridges
Look at that man walking down the street. He's looking at the numbers of the houses.
Doctor
Let's hope 221B is the number he's searching for. What do you make of him, Watson?
Johnny Bridges
What do I make of him? Well I say that he is a foreigner. Yes, foreigner. Look at those flashy clothes and his pointed moustache.
Doctor
Don't be misled by externals, old chap. Observe the steady controlled gait. No trace of the light agility of the Latins or the military heaviness of the German. No Watson. I think an English gait in foreign attire would suggest an expatriate Englishman only just returned from a stay abroad.
Johnny Bridges
He is coming here, Holmes.
Doctor
Meet him on the stairs, Watson. It'll save Mrs. Hudson a trip.
Johnny Bridges
All right. Mrs. Hudson. How do you do sir? How do you do? Would you please come along up?
Agent
That's right.
Johnny Bridges
Straight up here. In here.
Reginald Tremaine
Which of you fellows is Sherlock Holmes?
Doctor
I am, sir. And your name is?
Reginald Tremaine
Tremaine. Reginald tremaine.
Johnny Bridges
I'm Dr. Watson. Sit down.
Phoebe Watkins
Once.
Johnny Bridges
You, Mr. Trevin?
Reginald Tremaine
My business won't take long, Holmes. I need protection and I'm prepared to pay for it.
Doctor
Protection from what?
Reginald Tremaine
My life's been threatened. The police wouldn't do a thing for me so I've come to you. I've told you detective Fellows will do anything for money.
Johnny Bridges
Oh really? Then you've been misinformed, sir. My friend.
Doctor
Your friend is very interested in Mr. Tremaine's problem, Watson. Pray continue sir.
Reginald Tremaine
Holmes, I want you to warn my cousin. Tell him you'll get nowhere by threatening me. Frighten the witch out of him if you can. I'll give you £20 and another 20 if I need you again.
Doctor
And who is your threatening cousin?
Reginald Tremaine
Lord darling.
Johnny Bridges
Oh really? Charming fellow.
Reginald Tremaine
I said scoundrel. But his title impressed Scotland Yard. That's why they wouldn't help me. Well even a title can be vulnerable. A public scandal would shake him. And that's what is going to happen if he threatens me anymore. And you couldn't tell him so from me, Holmes.
Doctor
I've always heard of Lord Darlington as the very model of an English aristocrat. Why should he threaten you Mr. Tremayne?
Reginald Tremaine
That's none of your business. Your job is to see that he doesn't carry out his threat of thrashing me within inch of my life.
Doctor
Very well. For £20 I shall warn Lord Darlington that I stand between you and A thrashing. The fee will be paid in advance. Please.
Reginald Tremaine
I have it in this envelope here and I expect immediate action. Holmes.
Doctor
You shall have it, Mr. Tremaine.
Johnny Bridges
Holmes. A man's insufferable. Why'd you take on the case? He's a bounder. Let him get thrashed.
Doctor
These four crisp five pound notes persuade me otherwise, Watson. We owe money to Mrs. Hudson and your medical practice shows little signs of picking up. I must take what fees I can.
Johnny Bridges
How can my practice pick up when I spend half my time chasing all over the country with you?
Doctor
In any case, Watson, ask yourself why such a man as Lord Darlington should threaten Tremaine with physical violence. Obviously only because Tremaine is himself in some way a threat to Lord Darlington. There may be yet another fee in this case and a much fatter one.
Johnny Bridges
You're going to see Lord Darlington at once.
Doctor
Yes. I'd ask you to come with me, old chap, but after your remark about chasing all over the country I hesitate to waste your time.
Johnny Bridges
Ravish. I was only joking. And unite. You silly fellow. Of course I'm going with you, Holmes. Get your coat and hat, the game's afoot.
Reginald Tremaine
£10,000, my dear cousin, or the scandal will be spread all over London.
Narrator
It's preposterous, Reginald. And I warn you that if you continue in this vein you will get that threshing, I promise.
Reginald Tremaine
Oh no I won't. I've engaged a detective fellow by the name of Sherlock Holmes. He's going to act as a bodyguard so you'd better not try any tricks. He should be here any moment.
Narrator
How dare you bring a stranger into this mess.
Lee Masters
How dare you.
Reginald Tremaine
That's right, my dear cousin. Bolster up your courage with the brandy bottle.
Narrator
Be quiet, Reginald.
Reginald Tremaine
It'll cost you £10,000 to keep me quiet.
Narrator
I won't pay it.
Reginald Tremaine
The scandal will make pretty readings in the newspapers.
Narrator
Before we go any further, Reginald, I insist on one thing. I shall bring Lady Darlington here and you must make this shocking accusation to her face.
Reginald Tremaine
I shall be delighted to.
Narrator
Yes, Jenkins, what is it?
Lee Masters
Excuse me, your lordship, but there's a.
Johnny Bridges
Mr. Sherlock Holmes and a Dr. Watson to see you.
Lee Masters
I told them that you were engaged but they seem most insistent.
Reginald Tremaine
Better have them come in, my dear cousin. We may need independent witnesses.
Narrator
Very well. Show the gentleman in, Jenkins.
Lee Masters
Yes, your lordship.
Reginald Tremaine
And then if you'll ask Lady Darlington to come here, I'll be very glad to make my accusation in public.
Narrator
It's blackmail, Reginald, that's what it is. You will never get away with it won't.
Johnny Bridges
I?
Reginald Tremaine
I think you'll be surprised.
Doctor
Mr. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
Reginald Tremaine
Allow me to introduce my cousin. Gentlemen. Lord Darlington.
Doctor
How do you do?
Narrator
Jenkins.
Lee Masters
Yes, your lordship?
Narrator
Ask Lady Darlington to step in here for a moment.
Lee Masters
Yes, your lordship.
Doctor
Lord Darlington, I greatly admired your speech in the House of Lords on tax reform. I only wish we had met under different circumstances. As it is, it is my duty to.
Reginald Tremaine
Oh, that's all right, Holmes. I've already told my dear cousin that I'd engaged your services. I want you both here as witnesses.
Johnny Bridges
Witnesses to what?
Narrator
Reginald has made a shocking accusation. As soon as my wife comes here I'm going to insist that he repeat the statement to her face. There you are, Clara.
Nurse
I'll just put Gordon to sleep. Dear. Hello, Reginald.
Reginald Tremaine
How are you?
Narrator
Clara, my dear, I want to introduce Mr. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
Andrea Kucheska
Howdy, dear.
Nurse
Do sit down, won't you?
Johnny Bridges
Thank you.
Nurse
Albert, what's wrong? You all look so dreadfully serious.
Narrator
Clara, my dear, Reginald has made a shocking accusation. It concerns you and I insisted that he repeat it in your presence.
Nurse
An accusation against me?
Reginald Tremaine
Yes, Clara, my dear, you see I'm requesting a paltry sum for concealing my knowledge of the Darlington. Substitution. Scandal.
Nurse
Substitution? What on earth do you mean?
Reginald Tremaine
Who should understand me better than you? The baby asleep upstairs. The supposed heir to the Darlington title is not your child.
Nurse
That's a lie. How dare you say that?
Doctor
Reginald Lord Darlington. Surely you were present at your son's birth.
Narrator
Well, as a matter of fact I wasn't. I was abroad on government business at the time. My wife went to the country with a paid companion. My son was born there.
Reginald Tremaine
Oh no, my dear cousin. A son was born there and then it was passed off as yours.
Nurse
That's a foul lie. Albert, make him leave this house.
Narrator
I'm afraid, Clara, my dear, that he's threatened to go to the newspapers. We must hear him out.
Doctor
Lord Darlington, surely the matter is not hard to settle. You say your wife had a companion confront her with a story. She can establish the truth of the matter.
Nurse
Yes, of course she can, but where is she? I haven't seen Maud, Harry since she left me a year ago.
Reginald Tremaine
Then I have a surprise for you, Clara. She's waiting in my cab outside now. I'll tell Jenkins to send her in.
Doctor
Jenkins.
Agent
Yes, sir?
Reginald Tremaine
Ask Ms. Harris to join us. She's waiting in my cab.
Johnny Bridges
Yes, sir.
Nurse
Albert, I don't know what devil's work Reginald's up to but you don't believe him, do you?
Narrator
Of course not, Tara, darling.
Doctor
Mr. Tremaine, how did you get in touch with this Ms. Harris?
Reginald Tremaine
For an employee you ask a lot of questions, Holmes. I met Maud Harris at Brighton last week. As soon as she knew I was the black sheep of the Darlington clan she thought we might profitably put our heads together.
Johnny Bridges
And so you organized with the idea of blackmailing this poor lady.
Reginald Tremaine
Such a valuable secret is surely worth a few thousand pounds, Dr. Watson.
Nurse
Maud.
Johnny Bridges
Yes?
Nurse
Lady Darlington, it's me.
Reginald Tremaine
You're just in time to settle a most important truth.
Narrator
I'll handle this Reginald. Young lady, as I understand it you came to know that the boy lying upstairs is not my son.
Nurse
Who should know better, your lordship? He's mine. Maud, how can you tell such a lie? It's no lie and you know it. Lady Darlington. Your child was born dead. Albert, make her stop saying such things.
Narrator
Here are, my dear, control yourself. Let's hear this shocking tale to the end. Well go on young woman.
Nurse
You were abroad, Lord Darlington when her Ladyship lost her child. She was terrified. She knew how much you longed for a son and she made this plan. I was a widow and I was going to have a child too. We fooled the villagers, even the doctor by giving each other's names. And so my son was born as the Darlington heir. But that's the most shocking lie I've ever heard. I can't stay here and listen to any more of it.
Narrator
Mr. Holmes. I understand you're a man of discretion and ability in such matters. What am I to do?
Doctor
I would like to ask this young lady a few questions. Ms. Harris. Why have you chosen to reveal the supposed truth now?
Nurse
I thought that money could compensate me for the loss of my boy. But I was wrong. A mother's love can never be stifled.
Doctor
Indeed.
Johnny Bridges
And I suppose Mr. Tremaine's plans for blackmail are purely incidental.
Reginald Tremaine
You keep out of this, Watson. It's no affair of yours.
Johnny Bridges
Establishing truth and justice is anybody's business, my good man.
Narrator
Mr. Holmes, I'll pay you any fee you name to disprove this monstrous story.
Reginald Tremaine
No you don't, my dear cousin. Holmes is employed by me, Mr. Tremaine.
Doctor
I have undertaken to protect your physical safety. That pledge I will keep. Otherwise I'm a free agent.
Narrator
Then you'll accept my commission?
Doctor
Yes, Lord Darlington. On one condition.
Narrator
And what's that?
Doctor
You have asked me to disprove this story. I would prefer that you ask me to establish the truth.
Narrator
Of course, Holmes. And spare no expense. Remember the honor of the Darlingtons is at stake.
Johnny Bridges
Well Holmes, little did I think when Tremaine called on us this morning that we'd end up the day tramping a village lane in Surrey looking for a Dr. Godfrey.
Doctor
And yet that gentleman will surely be able to give us the final answer. Lady Darlington said that he attended.
Johnny Bridges
Yes, but supposing the companion's story was true and they had changed names.
Doctor
Even so, the good doctor will certainly know whether the boy was born to a slight blonde woman like Lady Darlington or a brunette Amazon like Maud Harris.
Johnny Bridges
Here's the doctor's house. They said in the village. It was the one with the gabled roof.
Doctor
Hmm. No lights visible. I hope the doctor's not out.
Johnny Bridges
Doesn't seem to be any answer. Confound it, I don't believe there's anyone at home.
Doctor
And you will observe, Watson, that this morning's delivery of milk still stands on the doorstep. Curious. Let's explore a little.
Johnny Bridges
Perhaps the doctor's gone away for a few days.
Doctor
If so, he's a very careless man. Look, that window's wide open.
Johnny Bridges
You think we might go in and look round?
Doctor
We not only might, we will go in. Too much is at stake to stand on ceremony. Strike a match, Watson.
Johnny Bridges
Light that lamp. Holmes. Holmes.
Lee Masters
Look, look, look.
Johnny Bridges
The figure slumped over the desk.
Doctor
Someone has reached the doctor before us.
Johnny Bridges
He's been shot through the chest. He's dead, Holmes.
Doctor
How long would you estimate he's been dead, Watson?
Johnny Bridges
About 24 hours.
Doctor
I say so now we become involved in murder as well as blackmail.
Johnny Bridges
Well, the answer's perfectly obvious to me. Tremaine came here and shot him. He knew that he could never blackmail Lord Darlington while this doctor was still alive.
Doctor
Not necessarily, Watson. If the story of the substitution is true, you must realize that one other person would have an equal motive for murder.
Johnny Bridges
Wait. Scuttolmes. Who?
Doctor
Lord Darlington himself.
Phoebe Watkins
In just a moment we'll rejoin Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes as they endeavor to solve the mystery. But first, they say New Year's resolutions are made to be broken. But here's one which should pay you big dividends. To keep resolves to take better care of your hair, to keep it better groomed, your scalp hygienic. Start using Kremel hair Tonic at once. You see, Kremel is a highly specialized hair tonic. It contains a special combination of hair grooming ingredients which is found in no other hair tonic. That's why it keeps hair neatly in place, longer and gives the hair such a natural, well groomed appearance. Never greasy or sticky. But men. Kremel does lots more than keep hair looking attractive. Its light oils have A fine lubricating effect on a dry scalp. At the same time it removes loose dandruff. And a quick massage with Kremel stimulates the circulation of blood in the surface of the scalp. Notice how alive, how invigorated your scalp feels. And men, you like to rub Kremel on your scalp because it's such a clean hair tonic, never feels greasy or sticky. And if your hair is so dry that it breaks and falls when you comb it, Cremel actually helps condition the hair in that it makes it feel softer, more pliable and looks as if it had some body to it. So men, for better groomed hair and a hygienic scalp change to Kremel. K R E M L Kremel hair tonic. Well Dr. Watson, so you went to interview that village doctor and arrived there to find him dead?
Johnny Bridges
Yes Mr. Bell, but before we reported the tragedy to the police, Sherlock Holmes conducted an intensive search for the dead man's room. After a moment he turned to me.
Doctor
And said, Watson, we must see what the inanimate objects in this room can tell us. Aha. Here's the doctor's appointment pad. Let's see who his last visitor was.
Johnny Bridges
Look, look, there's the name of Darlington.
Doctor
Yes, but that tells us little. If the companion story is true, the word Darlington could refer to either of the women or to Lord Darlington himself. But what are these letters scribbled before the word Darlington? Why must doctors have such illegible handwriting?
Johnny Bridges
Doctors don't have illegible handwriting.
Doctor
I disagree. In fact I've often thought they train you to write badly in medical colleges. Yes, the letters are Re Re Re Re Darlington.
Johnny Bridges
That means that someone was calling about the Darlington case.
Doctor
A fact we already knew. Let's see what else we can find. Hello. Look over here on the sideboard.
Johnny Bridges
Branded accounter with a stopper left out.
Doctor
And one glass that has been drunk.
Johnny Bridges
From the killer must have had a drink after he shot the doctor.
Doctor
And in so doing I think he gave us the clue to his identity.
Johnny Bridges
Oh, how?
Doctor
There's a speck on the rim of this glass. I think it's ah, the very thing. The doctor's microscope. Most convenient.
Johnny Bridges
What does it tell you, Holmes?
Doctor
Wait a minute. Uh huh. I was right. This speck on the glass is wax. Wax?
Johnny Bridges
Then that means the murderer used a candle.
Doctor
Oh no, Watson. Come on, we'll go back to the village and report his death. And then we'll catch the next train to London.
Johnny Bridges
Aren't you going to stay here and help the police?
Doctor
Why should I beyond telling them the name of the murderer.
Johnny Bridges
You mean you know who did it?
Doctor
Of course. And so should you.
Johnny Bridges
Well I don't.
Doctor
But we don't know the answer to the Darlington substitution scandal. That answer, Watson, still lies in London.
Narrator
9,000£9,510,000. Well there you are Reginald.
Reginald Tremaine
Thank you my dear cousin.
Nurse
I'll put the money in my bag. Reginald.
Lee Masters
Mr. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
Doctor
Lord Darlington. That sheaf of banknotes in Ms. Harris hand. Surely you didn't pay the blackmail?
Narrator
I discussed the matter with my wife, Mr. Holmes. She's deeply upset. We both agreed that the scandal once started would cling to us for life even if it was disproved later. That's why I paid the money.
Doctor
You engaged me as your representative in this case. Lord Darlington. Ms. Harris, give that money back at once.
Nurse
It was a gift from Lord Darlington in front of a witness. If you try to touch it I shall send for a policeman.
Doctor
That won't be necessary. Two of them are waiting in the anteroom now.
Johnny Bridges
Police.
Narrator
Holmes, you shouldn't have done it. I wanted no breath of this scandal to emerge from beyond these four walls.
Doctor
The fact that police are here has nothing to do with the problems of blackmail. I brought them here to apprehend a murderer. A murderer? What do you mean? Dr. Godfrey, your wife's physician was shot dead during the past 24 hours.
Johnny Bridges
He was killed before he could tell us the true answer to the parentage of the child upstairs. Murdered.
Narrator
What a dreadful thing. Have you any idea who did it?
Doctor
Every idea, Lord Darlington. But before I expose the criminal I'd be obliged if you'd bring Lady Darlington here and also the child.
Narrator
Very well, Holmes. This is going to be a terrible shock to her.
Johnny Bridges
You're Suddenly very quiet, Mr. Tremaine.
Reginald Tremaine
Am I? I was wondering who might have killed Dr. Godfrey.
Doctor
Fortunately we don't have to wonder. The murderer left a clue after he'd committed the crime. He made the mistake of taking a drink.
Reginald Tremaine
Darlington's quite a drinking man you know.
Doctor
And you have been known to take a drink on occasions too, Mr. Tremaine. For instance, after you'd killed Dr. Godfrey.
Reginald Tremaine
After what? What rubbish are you saying?
Doctor
You see, the murderer left a tiny blob of wax on the glass.
Reginald Tremaine
What does that prove? Merely that someone had been carrying a candle.
Doctor
But this wasn't candle wax, it was cosmetic wax. Such as you used to wax that pointed moustache of yours, Reggie. All right all of you.
Reginald Tremaine
I'm getting out of.
Nurse
He snatched my bag. Reginald, come back here.
Johnny Bridges
I'LL go up to them.
Doctor
No, no, Watson. The police are prepared to arrest him, but not the young lady. We shall need her cooperation in the last act of this little tragedy.
Johnny Bridges
Surely the whole thing's clear by now. If Tremaine killed the doctor, obviously the whole story about the substitution is. Is a lie.
Doctor
Not necessarily. Even if it were true, the doctor was still a menace to his plans. How could he and Ms. Harris ask the highest price for their secret when the doctor also knew it? No, Watson. Tremaine had a motive for murder either way. In the meanwhile, I must set the stage before Lady Darlington gets here. Where'd I put that parcel? Oh, here it is.
Johnny Bridges
What the devil have you got in there, Holmes?
Doctor
A present from a plumber friend of mine. Though the object in this package is only a simple tool of his trade, I feel that it may give us the answer to a peer's inheritance.
Johnny Bridges
But my sir, you're being very mysterious.
Doctor
In a few moments I propose to conduct a test. You must hide outside the windows. When I turn down the gas light over the mantel here, Watson, I want you to strike a match, apply to the object in this package and toss it through the open window. At the same time cry out the word Fire at the top of your voice. I think the results of the experiment may prove quite startling, Lord Darlington. Now that all the principals in this case are assembled, I shall conduct my experiment.
Narrator
Very well, Holmes.
Nurse
I don't see why I had to bring the boy down here. It's long past his bedtime.
Doctor
I assure you, Lady Darlington, that his presence is absolutely essential. Please place him in the bassinet on the sofa. That's it. And you, Ms. Harris, will you be good enough to place your handbag on the table?
Nurse
Very well, Mr. Holmes, but no funny business now. The police took it away from Reggie and gave it back to me. That money's mine.
Doctor
Each of you ladies claim to be the mother of that boy. Since scientific tests of parentage are notoriously unreliable I shall conduct a simple experiment which I think may give us the truth in this matter. Now I want both you ladies to come toward me with outstretched hands. That's it. I turn down the gaslight over the mantel so.
Johnny Bridges
Ha ha.
Nurse
Oh, good. Darling.
Doctor
It's all right, it's all right. If you look closely you'll observe that this object is a perfect. The harmless plumber's smoke rot. You can drop the masquerade, Watson. The case is solved.
Johnny Bridges
Oh, you know, Holmes, what on earth.
Narrator
Are you up to?
Doctor
You'll notice that on the cry of fire. Ms. Harris ran for her handbag containing the £10,000. Lady Darlington instinctively rushed to her son. I think, Lord Darlington, that there can no longer be any question of the child's parentage.
Johnny Bridges
Midnight. It's been a long day, Holmes.
Doctor
Yes, but profitable, Watson. A very profitable day's work indeed.
Johnny Bridges
Here's a thousand guineas from Lord Darlington.
Doctor
And don't overlook the £20 that Mr. Tremaine gave you.
Johnny Bridges
Certainly, Shan. He retained you for protection and you end up by sending him to the gallows.
Doctor
A fate that he richly deserves. I only wish I could have persuaded Lord Darlington to prosecute Ms. Harris. Blackmail is a devilish crime.
Johnny Bridges
Funny to think that a simple plumber's rocket smoked out the truth.
Doctor
Yes, though you'll remember I've had occasion to use the instrument before. When a woman thinks her house is on fire, her impulse is at once to rush to the thing she values most. It's a perfectly overpowering instinct.
Johnny Bridges
You certainly took advantage of the fact.
Doctor
Ah, well, Watson, you may remember the old Persian saying, there's danger for him who taketh the tiger cub and danger for whoso snatches delusion from a woman.
Johnny Bridges
Really? Who?
Doctor
Oh yes, Watson, there's as much sense in Hafiz as in Horace and as much knowledge of the world.
Phoebe Watkins
Well, Dr. Watson, that was a very exciting story.
Johnny Bridges
Incidentally, don't you think you'd better tell our listeners about the change of day and time for our next meeting?
Phoebe Watkins
Yes, of course. Ladies and gentlemen, our next broadcast will be on Monday, January 13th over these same stations. And better consult your newspaper for the time. Girls, have you noticed how men can't help but admire the bright shimmering highlights in a woman's hair? Then why not follow the advice of the famous Million Dollar Powers models girls noted for their glossy bright hair.
Nurse
Powers models wash their hair with Cremel Shampoo. This amazingly beautifying Cremel Shampoo actually glamor, bathes each tiny strand of hair and uncovers all its natural radiant luster.
Phoebe Watkins
Yes, and Cremel Shampoo never dries the hair. In fact, it has a beneficial oil base which helps keep the hair from becoming dry or brittle.
Nurse
Its luxurious active foam thoroughly cleanses the hair and scalp and removes all loose dandruff as well as the dirt.
Phoebe Watkins
So ladies, buy a bottle of Kremel shampoo at any drug counter. See how easy it is to glamour bathe your hair to a vision of tantalizing loveliness. K R E M L Kremel shampoo. Now Dr. Watson, how about next week?
Johnny Bridges
It's not next week, Mr. Bell. It's a week from next Monday.
Phoebe Watkins
Yes, of course. Well, what story are you going to tell us a week from next month?
Johnny Bridges
I think I'll tell you about the Devil's Foot.
Phoebe Watkins
The Devil's Foot? What was that?
Johnny Bridges
I won't tell you now, Mr. Bell, but I will say that Sherlock Holmes and I never encountered a more gruesome or a more horrible mystery.
Phoebe Watkins
Tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure was suggested by an incident in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story A Scandal in Bohemia. Nigel Bruce appeared by permission of California Pictures, Tom Conway, through the courtesy of Eagle Lion Pictures. This is Joseph Bell speaking for Kremel Hair Tonic and Kremel Shampoo and inviting you to be with us one week from Monday. That's January 13th, when Dr. Watson will tell us about the Devil's Foot. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.
Host
That's Case Closed for this week. I hope you enjoyed our selections this time. You can find more from the Sounds of Darkness, Sherlock Holmes, Case Closed, and all of the other Relic radio podcasts@ Relicradio.com. you can also find the shows on Spotify, search for Relic Radio Network, or click on the link in the show notes of this episode. And as always, if you'd like to help support this and all of that, visit donate. Relicradio.com or click on one of the links on the website. Your support makes all of this possible. Thanks to those who have thanks for joining me this week. Be back again next Wednesday with another hour of Case Closed.
Podcast Summary: Case Closed! – "The Sounds Of Darkness and Sherlock Holmes"
Released January 8, 2025, by RelicRadio.com, this episode of "Case Closed!" delves into two captivating stories from the golden age of radio. The first segment, "Sounds of Darkness," introduces us to Lee Masters, a blind FBI detective waging a relentless war against crime. The second segment revisits the classic tales of Sherlock Holmes with a new mystery titled "The Darlington Substitution Case." Below is a detailed summary capturing the essence of both stories, enriched with notable quotes and structured for easy navigation.
Overview: In "Sounds of Darkness," listeners are introduced to Lee Masters, an unconventional FBI agent who, despite his blindness, adeptly navigates the treacherous terrains of espionage and covert operations. This episode, titled "Georgia on Her Mind," revolves around the interrogation and eventual unraveling of Andre Kucheska, a Soviet courier implicated in a looming threat tied to Montreal, Canada.
Key Plot Points:
Introduction of Lee Masters (00:25): Lee Masters is portrayed as a formidable FBI agent, undeterred by his blindness. His unique abilities allow him to challenge and manipulate situations that others might find impossible.
Interrogation Tactics (02:56 - 09:21): Masters and his team discuss Andre Kucheska, a Lithuanian courier suspected of being a Soviet agent. Despite lacking concrete evidence, they employ psychological tactics to extract information about a planned diversion in Montreal.
Lee Masters (02:09): "I'm gonna punish you because you've traveled with me before along this highway."
The Elaborate Setup (04:48 - 10:01): The team devises a complex ruse, transforming themselves into Russian operatives to make Kucheska feel at home and compelled to divulge critical information.
Lee Masters (09:00): "Perhaps you will be punished for not standing up to routine questioning."
Tensions Rise (12:20 - 23:54): As the interrogation intensifies, internal conflicts emerge within the team. Phoebe Watkins and the nurse become entangled in the high-stakes game, leading to unexpected violence and the revelation of deeper conspiracies.
Lee Masters (16:21): "You dare to question me. That is better. Oh, clown."
Climactic Confrontation (21:23 - 23:54): The façade begins to crumble as agents infiltrate Masters' operation, resulting in gunfire and the exposure of the true motives behind Kucheska's mission.
Lee Masters (22:21): "And Andrea reacted like a trained person. She was. And killed that woman, eh? Three women dead."
Notable Insights:
Psychological Manipulation: Masters' approach underscores the power of psychological manipulation in espionage, showcasing how altering one's environment and identity can break even the most steadfast agents.
Moral Ambiguities: The narrative delves into the ethical gray areas of intelligence work, questioning the lengths to which agents should go to extract information and the personal costs involved.
Overview: Transitioning to the beloved world of Sherlock Holmes, the second segment presents a fresh mystery involving Lord Darlington and a scandal that threatens to tarnish his esteemed reputation. Dr. Watson, portrayed by Johnny Bridges, teams up with Holmes to uncover the truth behind a convoluted tale of blackmail and deceit.
Key Plot Points:
Introduction to the Mystery (24:10 - 32:14): Dr. Watson recounts a case where Reginald Tremaine, a member of the House of Lords, seeks Holmes' expertise to prevent a scandal involving alleged substitution at the Darlington family.
Johnny Bridges (24:37): "Then I’d better get on with tonight's new adventure."
Encounter with Lord Darlington (33:02 - 38:24): Tremaine presents his predicament to Holmes and Watson, revealing that Lady Darlington accuses him of impersonating her son, a claim that threatens to spiral into public scandal.
Reginald Tremaine (32:14): "I shall bring Lady Darlington here and you must make this shocking accusation to her face."
Investigation and Evidence (39:00 - 43:40): Holmes and Watson visit the deceased village doctor, Dr. Godfrey, uncovering crucial evidence that points towards Lord Darlington's involvement in a murder intended to silence a key witness.
Doctor Holmes (43:40): "This speck on the glass is wax."
The Unraveling Truth (44:22 - 50:38): Through meticulous deduction, Holmes deciphers that the murder weapon was disguised as a common household item, leading to the revelation of Tremaine's true intentions and Lady Darlington's innocence.
Doctor Holmes (46:15): "This wasn't candle wax, it was cosmetic wax."
Resolution and Justice (49:33 - 50:38): Holmes confronts Tremaine with the evidence, leading to his arrest and the restoration of Lady Darlington’s reputation. The case concludes with reflections on the cunning methods employed to unveil the truth.
Johnny Bridges (49:30): "Here's a thousand guineas from Lord Darlington."
Notable Insights:
Deductive Reasoning: The episode brilliantly showcases Holmes' unparalleled deductive skills, emphasizing the importance of keen observation and logical inference in solving complex mysteries.
Themes of Honor and Reputation: The narrative highlights the Victorian-era emphasis on honor and reputation, illustrating how personal scandals can have far-reaching societal impacts.
Collaboration and Trust: The partnership between Holmes and Watson underscores the value of teamwork and trust in overcoming challenges and unraveling intricate plots.
This episode of "Case Closed!" masterfully intertwines the dark, suspenseful elements of "Sounds of Darkness" with the classic, cerebral intrigue of Sherlock Holmes. Through engaging storytelling and well-crafted dialogues, listeners are transported into worlds of espionage and Victorian mysteries, all while reflecting on timeless themes of integrity, deception, and the pursuit of truth. Notable quotes punctuate pivotal moments, enhancing the immersive experience and providing depth to the characters' motivations and actions.
Whether captivated by Lee Masters' relentless quest in the shadows or fascinated by Holmes' deductive prowess in the face of aristocratic deceit, this episode offers a rich tapestry of narratives that honor the legacy of old-time radio's crime stories.