Sherlock Holmes: A Scandal in Bohemia (Rathbone & Bruce) 12/10/1945

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes - "A Scandal in Bohemia"

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: A Scandal in Bohemia (Rathbone & Bruce) 12/10/1945
Original Air Date: December 10, 1945
Summary Prepared For: January 16, 2026

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Episode Overview

In this classic radio adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "A Scandal in Bohemia," Dr. Watson recounts a particularly memorable case featuring Sherlock Holmes’ brilliant deduction skills and the enigmatic Irene Adler, “the woman” who outsmarted the master detective. This episode explores themes of reputation, love, cleverness, and the limits even Holmes cannot surpass.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. The Mysterious Letter

• Dr. Watson visits Holmes at 221B Baker Street after receiving a curious, unsigned letter requesting Holmes' assistance.
• Holmes deftly deduces the origin of the letter (Bohemia), its writer (German), and its urgency.
  ("If a gentleman walks into my rooms smelling of iodoform, with a black mark of nitrate of silver on his right forefinger... I should be dull indeed if I didn't pronounce him to be an active member of the medical profession." — Holmes, 03:27)

2. A Royal Client

• The masked visitor is revealed as none other than the King of Bohemia (06:47), who confesses his troubles with Irene Adler, a woman in possession of a potentially scandalous photograph.
• The King recounts attempts (theft, bribery) to retrieve the photo, all of which have failed.
• Holmes learns that the King's impending marriage makes the retrieval critical (08:58).

3. Holmes and Watson Investigate Irene Adler

• Holmes and Watson disguise themselves as stable hands to gather information at a local pub (11:10).
• They discover Adler is admired locally and has a frequent visitor, barrister Geoffrey Norton, suspected to be important to the case.

4. A Rapid Marriage

• Holmes and Watson follow Adler and Norton in a dramatic chase to the Church of St. Monica (14:46), where Holmes, in disguise, acts as their witness at a hasty wedding (16:49).
  "The bride gave me the sovereign as a memento. I think I'll wear it on my watch chain in memory of the occasion." — Holmes, 17:12

5. Holmes’ Devious Plan

• Holmes plans to enter Adler's house disguised as a "simple-minded nonconformist clergyman" (17:55) and engineers a ruse involving a feigned street altercation, fake injury, and a smoke rocket (18:44).
• When a false fire alarm is raised, Holmes observes Adler rushing to retrieve her most prized possession: the photograph.

6. The Final Confrontation and The Twist

• Holmes deduces the photo’s hiding place but does not take it immediately (22:33).
• The next morning, Holmes, Watson, and the King return to Adler’s house only to discover she has fled England with her new husband (23:46).
• Holmes finds a letter and a different photograph left by Adler. The letter reveals she saw through Holmes' disguise and assures the King she will not use the incriminating photo (24:34).

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Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• On Holmes’s Deduction Methods:
  "Elementary, my dear chap..." — Holmes, 03:27

• On Irene Adler’s Character:
  "Her name was Irene Adler, but I never knew Holmes referred to her by any other name than the woman." — Dr. Watson, 02:14

• On Holmes Being Outwitted:
  "What a woman, Watson. What a woman. What a magnificent woman. She fooled me completely." — Holmes, 25:37

• Irene Adler's Letter:
  "My dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, you really did it very well... May I congratulate you on your disguise as the dear old clergyman?" — Adler’s letter, read by Holmes, 24:34

• On Holmes’ Reward:
  "This is something I shall treasure all my life... They will remind me that I was once tricked by a woman. A woman that I shall never forget." — Holmes, 26:15

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Timestamps of Critical Segments

• [02:14] — Irene Adler’s first mention
• [06:47] — The King of Bohemia reveals his identity
• [07:55] — The threat: a scandalous photograph
• [11:10] — Pub investigation and discovery of Geoffrey Norton
• [14:46] — Chase to church and wedding
• [16:49] — Holmes as wedding witness
• [17:55] — Holmes devises new disguise and plan
• [18:44] — Explanation of the smoke rocket ruse
• [22:33] — Holmes discovers hiding place of photo
• [23:46] — Return to Adler’s house; she has fled
• [24:34] — Irene Adler’s letter read aloud
• [25:37] — Holmes praises Adler's cleverness and expresses admiration
• [26:15] — Holmes chooses his reward: Irene’s photograph

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Episode Tone & Style

• The episode maintains a witty, respectful tone with touches of admiration for Irene Adler’s cleverness.
• Holmes and Watson's camaraderie is evident, featuring classic Holmesian logic, dry humor, and humility in defeat.

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Conclusion

This adaptation is a showcase for one of Holmes’ most famous cases and one of his rare defeats. Irene Adler’s wit, daring, and honor outmaneuver even Holmes, but her mercy spares the King. Holmes’s respect for “the woman” is palpable, making this a beloved entry in the Sherlock Holmes legacy.

For fans of detective fiction, this is a witty, suspenseful, and ultimately human story—filled with sharp dialogue, disguises, and the rare humility of Sherlock Holmes.

Transcript

[Dr. Watson]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio, where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe.

[Pub Bartender]

To us on YouTube and thank you.

[Dr. Watson]

For [e-mail] this episode from the life.

[Harry Bartel]

Of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by shortwave and through the worldwide facilities of the Armed Forces Radio Service. Petrie wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invite you to listen to Dr. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. You know something? I had an adventure tonight I wish you could have shared with me. I had a steak about, oh, an inch and a half thick, tender, juicy. And with it, I had a glass of Petri California Burgundy. Now, there's a combination steak and Petri Burgundy. That Petri Burgundy is a perfect mealtime wine. It's a rich red wine that's hearty and full of flavor. Flavor that comes right from the heart of the grape. And don't think that Petri Burgundy is only good with steak. It'll make a hamburger sandwich taste like a feast too. Try Petri Burgundy with any meat or meat dish. It's just wonderful. And serve it proudly too, because after all, the name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wines. And Now I know Dr. Watson's waiting for us, so let's go in and join him.

[Dr. Watson]

Come in, come in, come in, come in.

[Harry Bartel]

Good evening, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Good evening, Mr. Bartell. You're quite muffled up tonight, I see. Overcoat, scarf and gloves. Slip em off and come and join me by the fire.

[Harry Bartel]

Thanks, Doctor. Quite a nip in the air tonight.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, there is indeed.

[Harry Bartel]

Well, Doctor, you told us last week that tonight's story centered around the activities of a brilliant and beautiful woman.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, my boy. Her name was Irene Adler, but I never knew Holmes referred to her by any other name than the woman.

[Harry Bartel]

She sounds mighty intriguing. How did you happen to meet up with her?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I'll tell you the story from the beginning. One night. It was on the 20th of May, in 1888 to be exact. I was returning home from a visit to a patient when my steps led me through Baker Street. Since my marriage, I haven't seen much of Sherlock Holmes.

[Harry Bartel]

You couldn't resist stopping by at 221B, I'm sure, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Of course I couldn't. As I stood outside the well remembered door, I looked up at the lighted windows and saw the tall, spare figure of my old friend passed twice in dark silhouette against the blind. He was pacing the room swiftly, eagerly, with his head sunk on his chest and his hands clasped behind him. To me, who knew every mood of his and habit of his, his attitude and manner told their own story. He was hot on the scent of some new problem. I rang the bell and a few moments later found myself standing before him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Marriage suits you, Watson. You look in splendid shape.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, Holmes, I'm feeling very well, thanks.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And in practice again, I see. You didn't tell me that you'd gone back into harness.

[Dr. Watson]

How did you know?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Elementary, my dear chap. If a gentleman walks into my rooms smelling of iodoform, with a black mark of nitrate of silver on his right forefinger and a bulge on the left side of his hat to show where he's secreted his stethoscope, I should be dull indeed if I didn't pronounce him to be an active member of the medical profession.

[Dr. Watson]

Just the same as ever, Holmes. By the way, I'm not interrupting you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, you are, old fellow, but it's. It's a most welcome interruption.

[Dr. Watson]

You're working on a new case?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It looks like it. This letter arrived by the last post today. It's undated and has neither signature nor address. Read it.

[Dr. Watson]

Let's have a look there. Will call upon you tonight at a quarter, quarter to 8 o', clock, a gentleman who desires to consult you upon a matter of the very deepest moment. Your recent services to one of the royal houses of Europe have shown that you are one who may safely be trusted. This account of you we have from all quarters received. Be in your chamber then at that hour. And do not take it amiss if your visitor wears a mask. Scott, it's all very mysterious. What do you imagine it means?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look carefully at the note, old fellow. What do you deduce from it?

[Dr. Watson]

Well now, let me think. The man who wrote it was presumably well to do. Such paper couldn't be bought under half a crown a packet and it's peculiarly strong and stiff.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Peculiar, that's the very word. It's not an English paper at all. Hold it up to the light. Don't you notice anything?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, there's a large E with a small G and a large G with a small T woven into the texture of the paper.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What does that suggest you?

[Dr. Watson]

The name of the maker, no doubt. Or perhaps his monogram.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not at all, my dear fellow. The G with the small T stands for Gesellschaft, which is the German for company. And the E. G that stands for Igria? It's a German speaking country in Bohemia, not far from Carlsbad.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, so the paper was made in Bohemia.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Undoubtedly, my dear fellow. And the man who wrote the note is a German.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you know that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Observe the curious construction of the sentence. This account of you we have from all quarters received. A Frenchman or a Russian could not have written that it's the German who is so discourteous to his verbs.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, you can't now. I better go home. No, no, no, no, no.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Unless you have to.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I, I could stay. I thought that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then stay, old chap. I'm lost without my Boswell. And this promises to be interesting. I told Mrs. Hudson to let the masked visitor come upstairs unannounced. Come in. Good evening, sir.

[King of Bohemia]

You, you received my note?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes indeed, sir. Come in, won't you? And sit down. This is my friend and colleague, Dr. Watson. You may say anything before him that you can say to me. Whom have I the honor to address?

[King of Bohemia]

You may address me as Count von Kraum.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do, sir?

[King of Bohemia]

You must excuse this mask that I wear. The august person who employs me wishes his agent to be unknown to you. And I may confess at once that the title by which I have just called myself is not exactly my own.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm well aware of that fact, sir.

[King of Bohemia]

You see, Mr. Holmes, the matter I am about to discuss implicates the great house of Ormstein, hereditary kings of Bohemia.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That has not escaped me either, sir. In fact, if you will state your case, I shall be the better able to advise you. Your majesty, how did you.

[King of Bohemia]

Yes, yes, I am the king. Why should I attempt to conceal it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why indeed.

[King of Bohemia]

I shall remove the mask. There. Mr. Holmes, I have traveled incognito from Prague for the express purpose of consulting you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And pray consult briefly.

[King of Bohemia]

The facts are these. Some five years ago during a visit to Warsaw, I made the acquaintance of, of the well known adventuress Irene Adler.

[Dr. Watson]

Irene Adler? We know of her, your majesty.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look her up in the index for me, will you Watson? It's right beside you on the desk there.

[King of Bohemia]

I imagine that the name would not be unfamiliar to you.

[Dr. Watson]

Here we are. A Abraham's, Acton Green, Hatchet Murders. Adler, Adler.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Spend it, spend it all for. Oh, hand me the file, will you? Thank you. Irene Adler, born in New Jersey in the United States in 1858. Copy from Trouto, Prima donna Imperial Opera of Warsaw. Retired from the apparatus stage, living in London. Quite so. And here's a recent notation. Huh? Your majesty, as I understand, became Entangled with this young person, wrote her some compromising letters and is now desirous of getting those letters back.

[King of Bohemia]

Precisely so.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But how did. Was there a secret marriage?

[King of Bohemia]

None.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No legal papers or certificates? No. Then I fail to follow, your Majesty. If this young lady should produce her letters for blackmailing purposes, how is she to prove their authenticity?

[King of Bohemia]

It's the handwriting.

[Dr. Watson]

That could be a forgery, your Majesty.

[King of Bohemia]

But it was private. Notepaper, stolen my own seal, imitated my photographs.

[Harry Bartel]

Bought what?

[King of Bohemia]

We were both in the photograph.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh dear. Oh dear, that's very bad. Your Majesty has indeed committed an indiscretion.

[Dr. Watson]

Did you inscribe the photograph, Your Majesty?

[King of Bohemia]

Yes, Dr. Watson. I'm afraid I did. Mr. Holmes. It must be recovered.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perhaps if you were to pay enough, the photograph might be bought.

[King of Bohemia]

She refuses to sell.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who's stolen then?

[King of Bohemia]

Five attempts have been made. Twice burglars in my pay ransacked our house. Once we diverted her luggage when she travelled. Twice she has been waylaid. There has been no result.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh dear. It's quite a pretty little problem.

[King of Bohemia]

It is a deadly serious one to me, your majesty.

[Dr. Watson]

What does Ms. Adler intend to do with the photograph?

[King of Bohemia]

To ruin me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, how?

[King of Bohemia]

Well, I'm about to be married to the second daughter of the King of Scandinavia. She is the soul of delicacy. A shadow of a doubt as to my conduct would bring the matter to an end.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And Irene Adler threatens to send the photograph to your fiance, I suppose?

[King of Bohemia]

Yes. And she will do it rather than let me marry another woman. There are no links to which she would not go.

[Dr. Watson]

Are you sure that she's not already sent it?

[King of Bohemia]

Your Majesty, I am sure now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why?

[King of Bohemia]

Your Majesty, she said that she would send it on the day my betrothal is publicly announced. That day will be next Monday.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Spend it then. We have still three days yet. Your Majesty will of course stay in London for the present.

[King of Bohemia]

Certainly. You will find me at the Langham Hotel registered as Count Van Komm.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just two questions before you leave, sir.

[King of Bohemia]

What are they?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Is the photograph large or small?

[King of Bohemia]

Quite large, and it was in a heavy frame. I see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And what is Ms. Irene Adler's London address?

[King of Bohemia]

The only lodge, Serpentine Avenue, St. John's Wort.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you, your Majesty. Good night. And I trust we shall soon have some good news for you.

[King of Bohemia]

I am placing all my hopes in you, Mr. Holmes. Good night.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good night, Dr. Wallace.

[Dr. Watson]

Good night, your Majesty. Fascinating problem, Holmes. I wish I could help you with it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You can, my dear chap.

[Dr. Watson]

Huh.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I shall be glad of your company.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, splendid. What's our first move, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, a good night's rest, I think. We'll meet here at 10 o' clock tomorrow morning.

[Dr. Watson]

And then?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then, my dear fellow, we will see what we can find out about Ms. Irene Adler, late of the Warsaw Imperial Opera Company, and at present residing at Bryony lodge, Serpentine Avenue, St. John's W.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, Holmes, a cursory examination of Brierley Lodge didn't prove very illuminating.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, a Bijou residence that represents the essence of dignified suburbia. That tells us very little about its owner. I think a visit to the local public house might prove more instructive. Come on, old chap. I see the door to the Coach and Horses inviting us from across the road.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, our disguises shouldn't cause any suspicion, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's why I suggested them in the character of a couple of stable hands. I felt that we might inspire confidence. This is a horsey neighborhood. There's a wonderful sympathy and freemasonry among the fraternity. There we are. Better let me do most of the talking.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I will indeed. I'm sure that your accent will be more convincing than mine.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let's go in. Chargeway.

[Pub Bartender]

Well, what'll it be? Mates off of Old and Mild, please. How about you, Charlie? All of a sudden, two halves of Old and Mild. Ye are mates. That'll be a tenant. Have a drink with us, Governor. Don't mind if I do. I'll have a Guinness. You blokes new around here? Yes, that's right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Came over from Clapham.

[Dr. Watson]

Clapham, eh?

[Pub Bartender]

Well, he's looking at you. Hunting for jobs.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's right.

[Pub Bartender]

We was told that Miss Adler across the Briony Lodge needed a new coachman and a groom. Well, it's the first I've heard of. It might be true. Have you been over there to ask?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, not yet.

[Pub Bartender]

We thought we'd find out something about the old girl first. She ain't no old girl, matey. She's the prettiest young thing you ever saw under a bonnet, and that's a fact.

[Dr. Watson]

You know her, Governor?

[Pub Bartender]

Why, of course I know her. Used to drive her carriage, I did before I came to work here. Oh, what's she like? Oh, nice little lady, as you'll find, Jim. A work yard? No, no, no, she. She lives quiet like. Goes out singing at concerts once in a while. The rest of the time it's money for Jan. She goes out for a drive in the park every day at 5 and comes back to dinner at 6:30. The rest of the time's your own. She ain't Married, you say? No, no, but she's got a bloke what comes to see her all the time. He's a barrister. Nice gentleman, Mr. Jeffrey Norton is his name.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good looking fella.

[Pub Bartender]

Wouldn't be surprised to see him get spliced. Sounds like a cushy job to me. Come on, Charlie, let's get out of the house and see what's what.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Much obliged to you, chum.

[Pub Bartender]

Well, good luck mateys and and thanks for the guineas.

[Dr. Watson]

What's our next move, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let's stroll back to Briney Lodge. I'm undecided whether to continue my investigation there or to try and find out something about Mr. Geoffrey Norton, the barristan. If he's just her lawyer and nothing else, it's more than likely that she's entrusted the photograph to his safekeeping.

[Dr. Watson]

Hello. There's a cab waiting outside Miss Adler's house.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hurry, Watson. Maybe Mr. Norton's.

[Dr. Watson]

Here we are at the gate.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. Here comes a man hurrying down the pathway. Quick, let yourself behind this post. Listen.

[Pub Bartender]

Where to now, Mr. Norton? Drive like the devil. First to Grossen Hankey's in Regent street and then to the Church of St. Monica in the edge of a road. Half a sovereign if you do it in 20 minutes. Right. Char Mr. Norton up in.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Try and signal the cab, Watson. We must follow him.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, here comes one unearthed, isn't it? It's a private carriage, Miss Odd, no doubt.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here she comes down the pathway. Back behind the post again, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Where to, Ms. Adler?

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

The Church of St. Monica's John. And half a sovereign if you reach it in 20.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The game's a foot, Watson. Quick, we must get a cab and follow them.

[Dr. Watson]

Here comes a hansom. Hi, cabby. Cabby Here. You blokes got enough money to tie a cab?

[Sherlock Holmes]

There's a half sovereign for you, my man.

[Pub Bartender]

Right you are.

[Dr. Watson]

Where to, Governor?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The Church of St. Monica in the Edgware Road. And another half sovereign for you if you get us there in 20 minutes.

[Harry Bartel]

We'll hear the rest of Dr. Watson's story in just a second. But let me tell you something. If you're going to have chicken for dinner tomorrow night or any night, don't forget to serve that chicken with Petri California Sauterne. Believe me, Petri Sauternes is just about the last word in white wines. It's beautifully golden in color, it's delicate and intriguing in flavor, and it's just. Well, you taste it and see for yourself. If you want a delicious white wine, you certainly want a Petri Sauterne Doctor, once again you broke off your story at the most exciting point. Did you and Sherlock Holmes reach that church inside the 20 minutes?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, Mr. Bartel, we did, but the other carriages were there before us. Holmes went into the church after telling me to guard the outside. I must have waited for 10 minutes or more before Mr. Geoffrey Norton and Ms. Adler came out, spoke a few words to each other and then left in their separate conveyances. A moment later Holmes, still dressed as a stable hand, came striding out of the church and down the steps towards me. He was obviously very excited. Watson. What's that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Have they left?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, in separate cabs. I overheard him say that he was going back to his office and she said, I shall drive out in the park at 5 this evening.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Splendid old fellow. Then come on, we can return to Bake Street.

[Dr. Watson]

What happened inside the church?

[Sherlock Holmes]

They were married.

[Dr. Watson]

Married?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of course, the ceremony would have been illegal if it had been performed afternoon. That accounted for their wild dash to the church. Jump into the cab.

[Dr. Watson]

Where to now, Governor?

[Sherlock Holmes]

221B Baker Street.

[Dr. Watson]

So they. They got married, huh? Yes, and it may amuse you to.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Know that I acted as witness at the ceremony.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, you did? But how did that happen?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Their own witness had failed to appear and I was dragged into the breach. The bride gave me the sovereign as a memento. I think I'll wear it on my watch chain in memory of the occasion.

[Dr. Watson]

What an amazing situation. Things begin to look better for the King, don't they? Yes. Now that she's Mrs. Norton, the chances are that she won't want to expose His Majesty after all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I hope so. What's my hope? So that we can't afford to take any chances. I think the time is right for us to come to closer grips with the lady.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, Holmes, now that we've eaten, perhaps you'll tell me your plan.

[Sherlock Holmes]

With pleasure, my dear fellow. And while I'm so doing, I'll proceed with applying the makeup of my new disguise.

[Dr. Watson]

Another disguise? What's it to be this time?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think the character and appearance of an amiable and simple minded nonconformist clergyman would be most suited to my plan for entering Ms. Adler's house.

[Dr. Watson]

Are you going to try and enter?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then I must do. Hello? Yes, I'm sure the photograph is there. Ms. Adler, or rather Mrs. Norton, will return from her drive in the park at 6:30. We must be at Briony Lodge to meet her.

[Dr. Watson]

And what then?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You must leave that to me. I've already made my arrangements. There is only one point on which I must insist. You must not interfere, come what may. You understand I'm to remain neutral. Yes. There will be some small unpleasantness. Don't join in. It will end in my being conveyed into the house. As soon as I'm able to, I shall open one of the windows. You are to watch from the outside. When I raise my hand, you will throw an object which I shall give you through the window and at the same time cry fire.

[Dr. Watson]

Follow me entirely. But what am I to throw?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, it's nothing very formidable. Here it is.

[Dr. Watson]

Huh, looks like a great big cigar. What is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just an ordinary plumber's smoke rocket fitted with a cap at each end to make it self lighting. Your task is confined to throwing it through the window. When you raise the cry fire, it will be taken up by quite a number of people. Then walk to the end of the street and I'll rejoin you in 10 minutes. I hope I've made myself clear.

[Dr. Watson]

Perfectly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good. And now, old fellow, as soon as I've gone my clerical attire, let's be on our way. There's no time to be lost.

[Dr. Watson]

It's nearly 6:30, Holmes. We've been pacing up and down in front of our house for half an hour now. I hope she does come back.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm sure she will.

[Dr. Watson]

There seem to be a lot of loafers hanging around again.

[Sherlock Holmes]

All part of my conspiracy, old chap. You'll see them play their parts in a few minutes.

[Dr. Watson]

You still think the photograph is inside the house?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I'm sure of it. It's most unlikely that she carries it about with her. Remember the king told us it was a large framed picture. And also remember that she planned to use it within a few days. It must be where she can lay her hands on it. It must be inside her house.

[Dr. Watson]

Her house has been burgled twice.

[Sherlock Holmes]

They don't know how to look.

[Dr. Watson]

How will you look?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I won't. I'll get her to show me.

[Dr. Watson]

She'll refuse.

[Sherlock Holmes]

She won't be able to. Shh, here comes the carriage. Now remember, Watson, carry out my orders to the letter.

[Dr. Watson]

You can trust me. Good luck, limey.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Here comes the Duchess of Tillerwinks. Let's put out the carpet. She might get her tootsies wet.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, put her sock in it, Elfie.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Leave him alone. She's no better than she ought to be.

[Dr. Watson]

Please, please let me through.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

I live here. Well ain't that nice. We'll all come in and have a cup of cocaine.

[Dr. Watson]

Move out of the way please and let the lady through.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Mind your Own business. Just cause your collar's turned the wrong way, you can't spoil our fun. That's right, Eddie. Keep your nose out of it. Parsons, please, please don't fight about it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I tell you to stop molesting the lady, do ya?

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Then how would you like a biff in the nose? Oh, he hit the poor man, then he ran away, the coward. Is the clergyman badly hurt here?

[Dr. Watson]

He said mum, but he fell. If you asks me, he's hurt bad. He's bleeding something terrible. Can we bring him in, mum? He can't lie here in the street.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Why of course, bring him in.

[Dr. Watson]

Right you are, mum. Here Bert.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Right out.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Give us a hand.

[Dr. Watson]

Coo. Poor fellow.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Do you see what happened to him, mister?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I saw, my good woman. A very convincing demonstration.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Whatcha mean?

[Dr. Watson]

Weren't you paid by a certain gentleman for this performance?

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Oh, ye knows about it too. You must be a friend of Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I am.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Nice gentleman. He give us five bob apiece for tonight's work. It ain't through yet though. We got to start yelling fire when somebody tells us.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm that somebody, my dear lady. Where's Mr. Holmes now? He's inside the house.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Yes, he's opening a window now.

[Dr. Watson]

He's raising his hand. That's my signal now to throw the rocket. There we are, Holmes, there you are. You have the photograph?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, but I know where it is. She showed me, as I told you she would.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm still in the dark.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There's no mystery. Old chapter. When my accomplices started the row in the street, I had a little moist red paint in my hand. As my good friend Alfie pretended to strike me, I clapped my hand to my head and fell down. It's an old trick.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I understand that, but how did my throwing the rocket help you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It was all important, my dear fellow. When a woman thinks her home is on fire, her instinct is at once to rush to the thing she values most. A married woman grabs her baby. An unmarried reaches for her jewel box. In this case, of course, it was the photograph.

[Dr. Watson]

Where was it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In a recess in the living room. Just above the right hand bell pull. I caught a glimpse of it as she half drew it out. When I made it known that the fire was a false alarm, she replaced the photograph. As soon as I was able, I assured her that I was feeling well enough to leave.

[Dr. Watson]

You didn't take the photograph then?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, I felt that over precipitance at this stage might ruin everything.

[Dr. Watson]

And what do we do now?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Drive to the Langham Hotel and inform his Majesty of what has happened, then return with him here. After that, my dear chap, the case will be ended.

[Dr. Watson]

This is Branley Lodge now.

[King of Bohemia]

Your Majesty, I am all impatience. You're certain this photograph will still be there, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have every reason to believe so. Your Majesty.

[King of Bohemia]

I. I must confess this is going to be something of an.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ordeal, and I suggest that you let me do the talking. Your Majesty, I think I know how to handle the lady.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I believe.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I am Mr. Holmes. How did you know?

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

My mistress told me that you would be likely to call. She has left for the continent with her husband.

[Dr. Watson]

You mean she's left England?

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Never to return.

[King of Bohemia]

Then the papers and a photograph. All is lost, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We'll soon see. Follow me.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

She said you've been looking for something. I hope you find it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This was the bell pull. There's a sliding panel behind it somewhere. Ah, here it is.

[Alfie (Alfie the accomplice)]

Is.

[King of Bohemia]

Is the photograph there?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes, there is a photograph, but it's a photograph of the lady alone. Here's a letter, and it's addressed to me.

[Dr. Watson]

What does it say, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, you really did it very well. Until after the fire alarm, I had no suspicion. But then when I realized how I had betrayed myself, I began to think. I've been warned that if the King employed an agent, it would certainly be you. May I congratulate you on your disguise as the dear old clergyman?

[Dr. Watson]

Right. Scotch. He was far more clever than you thought, Holmes.

[King of Bohemia]

Yeah, yeah, go on. What else does it say?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let me see. My husband and I both thought that the best recourse was flight, so you will find the nest empty. As to the photograph of the King and yourself, His Majesty may rest in peace. Thank goodness for that. I love and am loved by a better man than he. I leave another photograph, however, that he might care to possess. And I remain, dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, very truly yours, Irene Norton, nee Adler. What a woman, Watson. What a woman. What a magnificent woman. She fooled me completely. But, oh, I. I'm sorry, your Majesty, I. I've been unable to bring your business to a more successful conclusion.

[King of Bohemia]

On the contrary, my dear sir, nothing could be more successful. I know that Irene's word is inviolate. The incriminating photograph is now as safe as if it were in the fire.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm glad to hear your Majesty say so.

[King of Bohemia]

I am immensely indebted to you. Now, pray tell me in. In what way I can reward you. This bell ring that I wear, I should be proud.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your Majesty has Something that I should value even more highly.

[King of Bohemia]

You have but to name it this photograph. Irene's photograph. But certainly. However, you must let me give you something more substantial.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, no, you, Majesty. This is something I shall treasure all my life. This and a golden sovereign I received from the lady's hand. They will remind me that I was once tricked by a woman. A woman that I shall never forget. What?

[Harry Bartel]

A woman that Mrs. Adley. Or should I say Mrs. Norton?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah.

[Harry Bartel]

That's the kind of woman I could really go for, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, you could. Just between ourselves, you know, I sort of. Well, I sort of could go for her myself.

[Harry Bartel]

She was intelligent.

[Dr. Watson]

Yeah, she was rich, beautiful.

[Harry Bartel]

That's the kind of woman you want sitting next to you in front of a cozy fire on a nippy fall night. Just the three of you.

[Dr. Watson]

The three of you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mm.

[Harry Bartel]

You, she and a glass of Petri Port, Mr. Pottery.

[Dr. Watson]

Port?

[Harry Bartel]

Why not? That Petri California port is some wine. Why, Petrie family really knows how to make good wine, all right. And no wonder. Look at all the experience they've had. Ever since they started the Petri business way back in the 1800s. The Petri family has handed down from father to son, from father to son, the art of selecting perfect sun ripened California grapes and making them into clear, fragrant, delicious wine. Those letters, P, E, T, R, I on the label of every bottle of Petri wine are the personal assurance of the Petri family that every drop of wine in that bottle is good wine. It's got to be, because Petri took time to bring you good wine. Well, Dr. Watson, that was a great story you told us tonight.

[Dr. Watson]

I thought you'd like it, Mr. Bartel. That's why I plan to tell you a sequel to it next week.

[Harry Bartel]

A sequel? Say, that sounds exciting, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I think you'll find that it proves to be that, Mr. Bartel. It's a story that takes place 20 years after tonight's adventure. And once again, the principal part is played by a woman. Only in this case, it isn't Irene Adler. It's her daughter. Oh. And now, Mr. Bartel, before I go, I. I want to remind our listeners that they owe a real debt of gratitude to Selective Service Boards in their communities. At this moment, those Selective Service Boards are working harder than ever, making sure that every returning veteran knows his rights and privileges. And the boards are helping him take full advantage of those rights and privileges. And they're helping our veterans get jobs. Our Selective Service Boards deserve our sincere thanks and they deserve our cooperation. They have done and they are doing a splendid job.

[Harry Bartel]

Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and is an adaptation of the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Scandal in Bohemia. Music is by Dean Fossler. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer, and Mr. Bruce through the courtesy of Universal Pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California, invite you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petrie family for a solid hour of exciting mystery dramas. Listen every Monday on most of these Same stations at 8 o' clock to Michael Shane, followed immediately by Sherlock Holmes. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.