Sherlock Holmes: Blarney Stone 03/18/1946 (Rathbone & Bruce)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes – "The Blarney Stone" (03/18/1946)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Blarney Stone (Originally aired March 18, 1946)
Starring: Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes, Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson
Date of Podcast Release: March 6, 2026

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Overview

In this classic episode, Dr. Watson recounts a tale set in Ireland involving Sherlock Holmes and himself during a visit to Blarney Castle. The story weaves together Irish legend, witty banter, and a cunning murder mystery centered around the famed Blarney Stone. Holmes must unravel the puzzle of a suspicious death that occurs under the guise of an Irish tradition—kissing the Blarney Stone—while navigating local customs, superstitions, and village intrigue.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Introduction to the Blarney Stone and Irish Customs

• Dr. Watson introduces the legend of the Blarney Stone, emphasizing its supposed power to bestow eloquence on those who dare to kiss it.

  • "The stone is considered a powerful talisman and the legend runs that whoever kisses it is endowed with eloquence for life." (04:06)

• Holmes and Watson visit Blarney Castle, witnessing the hazardous nature of the tradition and discussing its history.

  • "A certain Cormac McCarthy, called the Strong... followed her directions and obtained all the fluent persuasiveness she had promised." (06:13)

2. The Pub Encounter and Rising Tensions

• In a lively village inn, Holmes and Watson meet several key players:

  • Jeffrey Hankin: An abrasive Englishman living in Ireland
  • Molly Hankin: His beautiful and spirited Irish wife
  • Michael Corcoran: Hankin's business partner
  • Kathleen: The colorful barmaid
  • Sean O’Flaherty: The singing waiter engaged to Kathleen

• Hankin’s disdain for Irish culture is made clear, setting the stage for conflict.

  • "Sometimes I think that if I hear one more Irish tenor sing Molly Malone or one more reference to the little people, I shall go raving mad." (09:24–09:36)

• Hankin is goaded into betting he can kiss the Blarney Stone, a wager accepted with witnessed enthusiasm.

  • Holmes: "I'll make a wager, Jeffrey, that you haven't the courage to kiss the stone." (11:04)
  • Hankin: "It's a bet and you fellows witnessed it. I'll kiss the Blarney Stone at noon tomorrow..." (11:11)

• A disturbance occurs when Hankin insults the Irish staff and is warned by Kathleen:

  • "No Irishman will be after forgiving you for this night's work. No, not the little people of old Ireland either. You've made more enemies, Mr. Hankin, than you'll ever see." (12:12–12:19)

3. The Fateful Event at Blarney Castle

• The next day at the castle, amid blustery winds, Hankin attempts to kiss the stone with Corcoran holding his ankles with Holmes and Watson as witnesses.
• Tragedy strikes: Hankin slips from Corcoran’s grasp and falls to his death.
• Holmes quickly identifies the unusual greasiness on Corcoran's hands, surmising foul play:
  • "Someone, knowing that Hankin was going to kiss the Brownie stone, smeared his boots with grease so that he would slip out of the grasp..." (15:41–15:43)

4. Investigation and Irish Obstinacy

• The local police, led by the jovial Sergeant Bartel, are unhelpful due to St. Patrick’s Day festivities, postponing investigation and search for the body.
  • "Today's blessed St. Patrick's Day. Oh, I should let the poor fellow have the day in peace..." (18:51)
• Holmes and Watson interview Sean O’Flaherty (the suspect), who denies any part in the crime—even when it is revealed he cleaned Hankin’s boots that morning.
• Kathleen insists the fairies (the "little people") could have caused the mishap to punish Hankin.

5. The Reconstruction and Revelation

• Holmes arranges for a re-enactment at Blarney Castle with all principal suspects present.
• Using sleight of hand, Holmes demonstrates how grease could have been applied to a victim's boots at the last moment, not earlier by Sean.
• When grease is found in Molly Hankin’s purse, Corcoran tries to take the blame out of love, but Holmes exposes their mutual affection and their plot.
  • "That you love your late partner's wife and she you." (25:47)
• Holmes lays his deduction: if Sean had greased the boots at the hotel, the boots would show travel dust; if greased right before the event, they would not.
• Corcoran, cornered by the truth, chooses to leap from the parapet—ending the story with a grim twist.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Dr. Watson describes the dangers of kissing the Blarney Stone:
  "To kiss it disgust me to lower the candidate for eloquence over the rampart head foremost with a friend hanging onto his heels from the top of a castle." (04:21)
• Sherlock Holmes on Irish crime:
  "The Irish are curiously unrewarding in the criminal world… Irish murders, almost without exception, have been purely physical affairs of hot blood." (08:09)
• Holmes’ quick deduction at the scene:
  "There's grease on your hands. Grease and with a faint trace of boot blacking." (15:37)
• Kathleen on Irish folklore:
  "The little people. I warned Mr. Henkin last night that the little people would be after him. He insulted the Irish." (21:48)
• Holmes’ staged demonstration and confrontation:
  "My boots were ungreased when I entered the castle and yet someone has been able to apply grease to them without my knowledge within the last few minutes." (24:27)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Irish Legend and Setting Context – 03:22–06:48
• Pub Scene & Bet is Made – 07:15–13:03
• The Fatal Incident at the Castle – 13:44–16:06
• Investigation Stalled by St. Patrick's Day – 17:01–19:15
• Interrogations and Folklore Excuses – 19:56–22:38
• Holmes' Demonstration and Solution – 23:21–27:15
• Dramatic Climax and Resolutions – 27:13–27:49
• Closing Reflections – 27:51–28:42

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Episode Tone & Style

The episode is rich with atmospheric Irish touches: music, folk superstitions, and colorful village personalities. Holmes and Watson’s banter maintains its classic charm, while Rathbone’s Holmes shows his acumen for both science and human nature. The light-hearted moments contrast effectively with the underlying darkness of the murder plot, delivering a story that's both entertaining and suspenseful.

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For New Listeners

This episode is a quintessential example of Golden Age Sherlock Holmes radio: clever, theatrical, and rooted in both deduction and character interplay. Whether you're interested for the Irish folklore or classic detective work, the story efficiently brings both to life—with a satisfyingly devious solution.

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Perfect for: Fans of mystery, classic radio, and anyone curious about the legends—and dangers—of the Blarney Stone!

Transcript

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welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we

[Dr. Watson]

bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail]

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Petri wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invite you to listen to Dr. Watson tell us another story about his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And incidentally, I'd like to tell you about a swell American custom, the custom of serving sherry wine just before dinner. Petri California Sherry. You know, especially when you have guests. While you're waiting for that call to the dinner table, there's nothing better than a good glass of that good Petri sherry. You don't need fancy glasses for Petri Sherry. No sir. That wine tastes good out of any glass. And it looks good too. Beautifully clear and the color of precious amber. Just try that Petri sherry and you'll feel like smacking your lips after every sip. Oh, and say Petri makes two kinds of sherry, the regular sherry and Petri pale dry sherry. Just to make sure you get the perfect sherry for the whole family. Don't buy one, buy two. But do be sure the sherry you buy is Petri Sherry. Petri, the proudest name in the history of American wines. And now I'm sure our good friend Dr. Watson's ready for us. Let's go in and join him.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh There you are, Mr. Bartel.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Good evening, Doctor. Say, where are the puppies this evening?

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Bartel, don't you think it's about time you began to refer to them as the dogs? They're almost a year old, you know.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

I stand corrected. Where are the dogs this evening?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, they had another furious battle with a dead seal on the beach today. My housekeeper, Mrs. West, is giving them a much needed bath.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

They certainly have an aversion to seals, don't they? Well, Doctor, are you all ready with tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, my boy. And as yesterday was St. Patrick's Day, I decided to tell you a story that took place in Ireland a few years before the turn of the century. I imagine that you've heard of kissing the Blarney Stone, haven't you?

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Oh, yes, Doctor. Though I've never understood exactly what it meant.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, let me explain it to you because the ceremony plays a very important part in the story tonight. Blarney Castle is an imposing 15th century ruin a few miles outside the town of Cork. The castle is many stories high and in the foremost tower, the famous Blarney Stone is. Is situated.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

What's supposed to be the point in kissing it, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

The stone is considered a powerful talisman and the legend runs that whoever kisses it is endowed with eloquence for life.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Say, Doctor, if I ever get over to Ireland, I'll certainly kiss that stone. But you're such a storyteller yourself, Doctor. How about you've kissed it, huh?

[Dr. Watson]

No, Mr. Bartell. I'm afraid I never had quite enough courage.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Courage? Why does it need courage, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Because the bloody stone is set in a most inaccessible position on the outside wall. To kiss it disgust me to lower the candidate for eloquence over the rampart head foremost with a friend hanging onto

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

his heels from the top of a castle. It does sound dangerous, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

It was, my boy. So much so that in recent years a great row of iron spikes is put round the parapet to prevent an accident. Of course, at the time tonight's story took place, there was no such guard.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

And I have a feeling that an accident did take place.

[Dr. Watson]

To let me tell you the story from the beginning, Sherlock Holmes and I were staying in the city of Cork where the great manager solved a singular affair which the local press had referred to as the Leprechaun Murders. A few days before our departure for England, we paid a visit to Blarney Castle. I must confess that I had a certain desire to test the miraculous powers attributed to the Blarney Stone. I very soon changed my mind, however, as Holmes and I stood there high on the turrets of Blarney Castle and watched a terrified initiate being hauled up by his ankles and yelling at the top of his voice, pull me up, pull me up quickly. I think I'm going to faint.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Great Scott.

[Dr. Watson]

I had no idea that kissing the Blindly stone was such a hazardous proceeding. Huh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it would seem that eloquence could be more easily obtained by hanging suspended by one's ankles from a battlement with a hundred foot drop below and kissing a piece of stone.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I'll never lose that again.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Oh I'll never lose again.

[Dr. Watson]

I must say I don't blame the fuller.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And yet, my dear chap, on our way over here you expressed a sneaking desire to kiss the stone yourself. I'll be very happy to hold your ankles if you want to try the experiment.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no thank you. After witnessing the ceremony I've changed my mind.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then I suggest we make our way back downstairs. I don't think there's much more to be seen up here.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, by the way Holmes, do you know the origin of the superstition regarding the Blarney Stone?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes I do old chap. The stone was. Story of the stone dates back to the middle of the 15th century. A certain Cormac McCarthy, called the Strong, a descendant of the ancient kings of Munster and builder of this castle, chanced one day to save an old woman from drowning. In her gratitude she offered Cormac a golden tongue which would have the power to influence men and women, friends and foes, as he willed. She told him to mount the battlement, kiss a certain stone in the wall five feet below the gallery, running around the top. He followed her directions and obtained all the fluent persuasiveness she had promised.

[Dr. Watson]

And I suppose the story spread in the Blarney Stone has been a magnet to pilgrims ever since.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yeah, that's pleasant legend.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes old chap?

[Dr. Watson]

Tomorrow's St. Patrick's Day. I bet there'll be quite a bit of excitement in the village tonight. Don't you think it'd be rather fun to pay a visit to one of the local inns?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Splendid idea. Old chapter. Our rather arduous work here in Ireland is concluded and I think we are more than entitled to a little gaiety.

[Dr. Watson]

In Dublin City.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The Colonel Sovereignty was there, but I

[Sean O'Flaherty]

first met sweet Molly Malone.

[Dr. Watson]

Charming, quite charming. A waiter and singing at his words.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Singing very well too. Just the same I wish someone would come and take an order.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, there's a bar mit I'll see if I can catch your eye. Hi, Miss.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Miss.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Would you gentlemen be after wanting something?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, my dear. My friend and I would like a little refreshment. And what would you suggest?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

What would I suggest, your honor? Oh, big God. There's but one drink a gentleman like yourself should be after pouring down you. And that's the cream of Carnamora whiskey. That'll soften your heart and make you glow with a good feeling so. So that the little people will be after visiting you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It sounds delightful. Bring two glasses, will you?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Yes, your honor.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, your. I must say, I never heard an English barmaid going to such rhapsodies over a nip of whiskey.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, the Irish are distinctly more colorful in their speech. It's an interesting fact though, Watson, that the Irish are curiously unrewarding in the criminal world. England, Scotland, America, Australia have all produced classics of crime. But the Irish murders, almost without exception, have been purely physical affairs of hot blood.

[Dr. Watson]

You say that rather regretfully, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nobody a Jap? No, no. I say, Watson, look at this rather florid looking gentleman coming towards our table.

[Dr. Watson]

Looks to me as if he's a little under the weather.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

You fellows have got to have a drink with me.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, thank you, sir, thank you. But we've just ordered one.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Well, you've got to have it with me. I went to the races at Cork today and made a killing. I'm going to buy all the drinks here tonight, I'm afraid. The turf is nothing to be afraid of. I'll sit down with you for a moment.

[Dr. Watson]

There.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

My name's Hankin, Jeffrey Hankin. What's yours?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mine is Holmes, and this is my friend, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do, sir?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

How do you do, you, Honors? That'll be one in six here.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

I'm paying for these here. Half a crown and you can keep the chain.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Your blessings on you, you, Honor.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, if you insist on paying for our drinks, Mr. Henkin, here's your very good health.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, indeed.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

You're both English, aren't you? Yes, sir, so am I. And it's certainly a relief to hear an English voice again.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, you don't like the Irish lilt, sir?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Can't bear it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Personally, I find it rather charming.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, indeed, so do I.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Well, you wouldn't if you had to live with it all the time. Sometimes I think that if I hear one more Irish tenor sing Molly Malone or one more reference to the little people, I shall go raving mad.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You live in Ireland, sir?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Yeah, I have to. I own a half interest in The Tweed mill here, you see. In any case, my wife's Irish and she thinks there's no other country in the world, so I suppose I'm stuck here. See that couple sitting at the table over there?

[Dr. Watson]

You mean the fellow with a. With a very beautiful girl, yes.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Man's Michael Corcoran, my partner.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, the girl's absolutely ravishing.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

He'd like to meet her.

[Dr. Watson]

I'd like to invite Georgia. What do you say? Home?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, very well, Watson. The combination of my natural curiosity and your taste for a pretty face would seem to suit the occasion admirably.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

I might as well warn you, Doctor, that the pretty face belongs to my wife.

[Dr. Watson]

Your wife? I didn't mean to.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Oh, you better bring your glasses with you. Maury, my dear, I want you to meet two English friends of mine, Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

How do you do, Mr. Holmes? Dr. Watson. Won't you sit down and join us?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

And this is my partner, Michael Corcoran.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How do you do, Mr. Corcoran?

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm glad to meet you. Please be seated, gentlemen.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Are you visiting here in Cork?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, Mrs. Anin, but we're returning to England in a few days.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

You've been to Blarney Castle, I hope?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, yes, we were there this afternoon.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

And did either of you have the courage to kiss the Blarney Stone?

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, we didn't. I'm afraid it's an athletic feat that's beyond me.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

It's a lot of rubbish, that's what it is, kissing a slab of stone.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Have you the courage to do it, Jeffrey?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Of course I have, but I don't want to make a fool of myself. Where's the bar made, Kathleen?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll make a wager, Jeffrey, that you haven't the courage to kiss the stone.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

How much will you bet, Michael?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll wager a ten pound note on it.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

It's a bet and you fellows witnessed it. I'll kiss the Blarney Stone at noon tomorrow and you'll be ten pounds the poorer. Michael and I suggest that Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson be present as well. They can act as referees.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Jeffrey dear, don't get so excited.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Well, I don't like it when Michael suggests I don't have courage.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

You want some more drink, mister?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Hence all of us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Want some? No more for me, thank you, mister.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no, no. No more for me.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

You've had enough, Jeffrey.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Don't tell me when I've had enough, Mo.

[Sean O'Flaherty]

In Dublin's fair city, the girl.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Oh no, not that filthy song, Mr. Hankin.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I find the traditional Irish melodies quite beautiful.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

And I find them revolting.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Quiet.

[Sean O'Flaherty]

Would your honor be wanting me to sing another song?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

My honor would like you to shut

[Sergeant Bartel]

up that filthy cataw.

[Dr. Watson]

Really, sir, really.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

I call Sean. Please go on with your singing.

[Sean O'Flaherty]

In Dublin's fair city, you heard me,

[Dr. Watson]

a great bog trotting GitHub.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

I said shut up, and I meant shut up.

[Dr. Watson]

Jeffrey.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

I'm leaving here at once. Michael, please to take me home.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It'll be my pleasure, Molly.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

You're an ugly man, Mr. Henkin. Knocking down poor Sean when he was singing. Just like a bird.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Devil with him and all of you.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

No Irishman will be after forgiving you for this night's work. No, not the little people of old Ireland either. You've made more enemies, Mr. Hankin, than you'll ever see. But you'll be knowing they're there little sticks.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

You can't frighten me with your stupid Irish superstition.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, bless my soul. That was a charming little party. I must say.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Englishmen like Hankin are a disgrace to their country. Fortunately, they're not representative, though.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I must say, I'd hate to have a curse put on me like that barmaid laid on him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Yeah.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you see the glances which Mr. Hankins partner and his wife exchanged as the brawl started? There was more menace to him in those glances than in all the threats of all the little people in Ireland.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I thought that there was something between them. I say, Holmes, that bet about Hankin kissing the Blarney Stone at noon tomorrow, do you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I suppose nothing, old fellow, that there are forces at work here that I don't like. I think, Watson, that you and I will be at the Blarneystone at noon tomorrow. It's possible that the bet made tonight is all part of a definite plan. And I have a feeling that the bet is still on. It's quite windy up here today, old fellow, at the top of the tower, isn't it?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, it's just past noon. I wonder if that man Hankin is going to keep to the terms of his bet.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We shall soon learn. In the meanwhile, are you sure that you wouldn't like to change your mind and kiss the blahestone yourself?

[Dr. Watson]

Quite sure, thank you. Ah, here they come now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, Hankin. That's his partner, Mr. Corcoran. The bet is on, Watson. Good day to you, gentlemen.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Oh, hello. It's my friends from last night.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I see you're going through with the bet, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, yes, Geoffrey set His mind on the ten pounds of mine. Your wife didn't accompany you, Mr. Hankins?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

No, she didn't. I'm afraid I'm rather in disgrace for my behavior last night. Molly made me go around and see that waiter fellow that I hit. I offered him money but he wouldn't take it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you offer him an apology? Apologize to a waiter? I should say not.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Well, come on, let's get this stupid farce over with.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Are you sure your nerves can stand it, Jeffrey? There's a drop of 100ft or more below you.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Oh, don't worry about me, Michael. Just hold on to my ankles tightly and don't let go and I climb onto the parapet.

[Dr. Watson]

There we are.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Now hold on to my feet, Michael,

[Dr. Watson]

and lower me gently.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm holding you, Jeffrey.

[Dr. Watson]

Then lower away. Yeah, right you are, Jeffrey. Great Scott, I wouldn't do that for a hundred pounds. Sliding head first down a vertical wall. That's not.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Michael.

[Dr. Watson]

I can reach the stones. Oh, it's boots. They're slipping through my fingers. I can't open.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let me help you.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm slipping.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hold on to him.

[Dr. Watson]

Hold on to him. Oh, he's gone. I just couldn't hold him. Great heavens, no man could survive that drop, Mr. Corcoran.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You deliberately let your partner slip to his death. This is murder. But I don't understand. I. I'm a strong man, but he just vanished out of my hands like. Like a greased pig. Let me see your hands, Mr. Corcoran. This is dreadful.

[Dr. Watson]

Dreadful.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There's grease on your hands. Grease and with a faint trace of boot blacking.

[Dr. Watson]

Good lord, Holmes.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

That means.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It means, Watson, that someone, knowing that Hankin was going to kiss the Brownie stone, smeared his boots with grease so that he would slip out of the grasp of whoever was holding him. As clever a method of indirect long distance murder as ever I've encountered.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

You'll hear the remainder of Dr. Watson's story in just a second. So I'm going to remind you that Petri California Sherry is not only wonderful before dinner, but it's good almost anytime. If you had to choose just one wine for almost any occasion, that wine would be Petri Sherry. Petri sherry is a perfect wine to serve in the afternoon or in the evening. It's good before dinner, yes, but it's well after dinner too. In fact, with a bottle of Petri Sherry on your shelf you've got practically a small sized wine cellar. So get a bottle of Petri sherry soon. And remember, you can't mess with any wine that has the letters P, E, T R I on the label. Because all Petri wine is good wine. Dr. Watson, this is quite a story you're telling us tonight. What happened next? I suppose you went down into the castle grounds and looked for the dead man's body.

[Dr. Watson]

We tried to, Mr. Bartel, but the authorities were curiously uncooperative. They refused to let us search, insisting that the police be called first. And so, Mr. Bartel, half an hour after the tragedy, Holmes and I found ourselves standing in a tiny police station as we told the story to the local sergeant.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

Safeway and Albertsons have made saving easier than ever with great savings on family favorites this week. 16 ounce sweet strawberries are two for $5 member. And don't miss the incredible deal on signature. Select boneless skinless chicken breast. Value packs for 2.97 per pound limit. One plus medium avocados or mangoes are five for $5 member price. Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. These deals won't last. Visit Safeway or albertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Should the stands be prayers, Mr. Holmes? Tis a terrible star.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

You've told me.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Tomorrow I'll be after resting. Sean o'. Flaherty.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Sean o'. Flaherty. He's the waiter at the inn. The one who sings.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

That he is, that he is.

[Sergeant Bartel]

And he sings like a birth of spring. I'll be sorry to see him hang.

[Dr. Watson]

I tell you, you've got no proof that he was responsible for the murder.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Proof, you say, sir? Well, I can't arrest a big manufacturing man like Mr. Cochrane, can I? Or a fine lady like Mrs. Hank.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But you can't arrest a man without any evidence of guilt.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Oh, I can't, can't I?

[Sergeant Bartel]

Then supposing I tell you that Sean O' Faradi cleans the boats at the hotel where Mr. Hankin was staying?

[Dr. Watson]

He does, eh? Then he had the perfect opportunity for the greasing of Hampkins Boots this morning. And we know he had a motive for harming him.

[Sergeant Bartel]

You're right, sir.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

And for what?

[Sergeant Bartel]

I have heard of the dead man's behavior last night. Half a dozen people could have heard

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

him make the bet that he'd kissed

[Sergeant Bartel]

the Blarney Stone today. Shawn o' Friday's our man. I'll have to arrest him tomorrow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Tomorrow? But good heavens, man, aren't you going to do something? Today a murderer's at large.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Today is blessed St. Patrick's Day. Oh, I should let the poor fellow have the day in peace or he won't Run away.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear sir, will you come back with me to the castle and search for the body? They refuse to let me do it

[Sergeant Bartel]

alone on St. Patrick's Day. That I will not. We would need a crew of helpers. And where will I be after getting them on blessed St. Patrick's Day? No, no, we'll do that tomorrow too. No, today is a day for celebration.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your methods astound me, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Do they now, sir? Not be after? Just enjoy yourself today. Tomorrow we'll see what can be done about it.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, good day to you, gentlemen. I never seen such a happy, lucky policeman in my life.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's infuriating. If only I were allowed to examine Hankins body, I could get to the bottom of this.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, what are you going to do now?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Holmes won't help us. Then we must take the law into our own hands. I think we'll start off by going to the hotel and seeing what we can find out from Sean Ofl.

[Sean O'Flaherty]

As I was going to ball in your a day I will remember for to view the leads and lasses 105th day of November With a maring do a day and a morning a do a daddy. Oh, your honors would be after speaking to me, Sean O' Clarity, perhaps?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. Sean, did you know that Mr. Hankin, the man who struck you last night, was dead? Dead?

[Sean O'Flaherty]

Well, if ever a man deserved to be beneath the side, twas Geoffrey Hankin himself. A mean, ugly man. The saints be praised that he's gone. How did he die, sir?

[Dr. Watson]

He was murdered.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Murdered?

[Sean O'Flaherty]

But that I'm not surprised to hear it. Who murdered him, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

At the moment, the police seem to think that you are the culprit.

[Sean O'Flaherty]

Myself? Well, how would I be after murdering the man, sir, when I don't even know how he died?

[Dr. Watson]

He died when he fell from the top of Blarney Castle as he was trying to kiss the stone.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He fell because Mr. Corcoran, his partner, couldn't hold onto his feet. His boots had been greased.

[Dr. Watson]

And we know that you have been cleaning his boots, Sean.

[Sean O'Flaherty]

That I have, sir. I cleaned him this very morning, but I put no grease on him, if that's what you'd be after suggesting.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm suggesting nothing. I'm trying to establish a few facts. Do you know Kathleen, the barmaid?

[Sean O'Flaherty]

Oh, and why shouldn't I know, as she's to be me wife before the winter sets in?

[Sherlock Holmes]

She pronounced a curse on the dead man last night just after he had knocked you down. It's possible that she met.

[Dr. Watson]

Here she comes.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Huh?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Sean, my Darling. What are the fine gentlemen doing?

[Sean O'Flaherty]

Kathleen, They've come to ask me questions about the death of Mr. Hankin. He fell off Blarney Castle today and got himself murdered they say.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

The saints be praised. But, but what has that to do with you, my darling?

[Sean O'Flaherty]

Well, the gentlemen tell me that the village police think that I might have greased his boots so that he slipped to his death.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

The village police is as stupid as my father's big sow. If Mr. Henkin fell to his death today because his boots were greased, I can tell you who did it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Who?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

The little people. I warned Mr. Henkin last night that the little people would be after him. He insulted the Irish.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, come, come, come, my dear. You don't seriously expect us to believe in the little people?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

And why not, your honor? We have them here say the fairies all be dead. But, but I know different. I've seen them. When I was a slip of a girl close to where I lived there was a rat. That's a forret, you know. And the rat was a fairy's fort. We never dare touch it with a spade or cut down a tree growing on it or carry away a stone. We put our ear to the ground at night and we could hear the fairy music rising up from under the ground. Ah, they're gentle people most of the time. But they'd grease the boots of a man like Mr. Henkin if they didn't like them. That they would, your honor.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, I'm certain that we're wasting our time here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I feel so, Watson. We get the whole thing turned on, the greasing of those boots. If only I could have the boots in my hands. If only I could make laboratory tests. But until that dolt of a police. But of course I have it, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

You have what, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The answer, I hope. Get hold of Mrs. Hankin and Mr. Cochran. Have them meet me in the Blarneystone Tower in half an hour.

[Dr. Watson]

New. Where are you going?

[Sherlock Holmes]

To the police station to try and convince the sergeant that Even though it's St. Patrick's Day, it's his duty to help me trap a murderer.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Do you know, Mr. Holmes, you're an obstinate man. It's blessed St. Patrick's Day and yet you insist that we meet here on the top of Blarney Castle. What do you think you can prove

[Sherlock Holmes]

who murdered Jeffrey Hankin? Yes, but why do Molly and I have to be here?

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Yes, Mr. Holmes, and poor Jeffrey's body still lying somewhere below us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mrs. Hankin, Mr. Corcoran, I asked Dr. Watson to bring you here for a good reason, I assure you. You ready, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Quite ready, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good. Sergeant.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You asked me why I've assembled the three of you here. I'm going to reconstruct the crime. I shall play the part of the victim. My friend, Dr. Watson will represent you, Mr. Corcoran. Now, I straddle the pad a bit, so Watson, hold on to my feet. Will.

[Dr. Watson]

I've got him, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And lower me down the face of the wall.

[Dr. Watson]

Sure. Holmes. Holmes, hold tight to the wall. Try and push yourself back. The murderers tried to get you. Your boots are covered in greaser legs. I've got him, Holmes. Come up you come. There we go.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, that was devilish plot, Sergeant, and very cleverly carried out. My boots were ungreased when I entered the castle and yet someone has been able to apply grease to them without my knowledge within the last few minutes.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Sure, and how is that possible, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't know, Sergeant.

[Dr. Watson]

I must confess, Holmes, you stumbled as you came up the darkened staircase. Do you remember that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Forgotten. And you, Mrs. Hankin, and you, Mr. Corcoran, were kind enough to assist me to my feet. An excellent opportunity to apply the grease. Now we know that one of you two is the murderer. I must have a jar of grease somewhere. Sergeant, will you search the lady while I search Mr. Corcoran? But this is ridiculous.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Of course it is. How could we be guilty?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, if you're not guilty, you should have got no objection to being searched. Ma', am, upon my word, here in

[Sergeant Bartel]

your purse, Mrs. Hank, is a jar of grease.

[Arkay Spirits Announcer]

What?

[Sergeant Bartel]

Now, what have you to say for yourself?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What can't you say, Sergeant? Except that she engineered her husband's murder and tried to engineer mine.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Oh, no, no, I knew nothing about Jeffrey's murder. Oh, Michael, darling, I swear to you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't worry, my darling, I'll not let them hurt you. I'm telling you you're wrong, Mr. Holmes. I. I was the murderer.

[Kathleen (Barmaid)]

Oh, no, Michael, you mustn't sacrifice yourself for me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think this little play acting has gone far enough. Mr. Corcoran, you have just offered us what you think we will accept as a false confession. But I've established the one thing I wish to know. That you love your late partner's wife and she you. I'm proud to admit that, Mr. Holmes. And now that she's a widow, I can say it in the open. But what are you implying? That you murdered your partner.

[Dr. Watson]

But.

[Sergeant Bartel]

But the grease on your own goat, sir. I just found a jar of it. Mrs. Hank's handbag.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That, my dear Sergeant, was all part of my little plan. As to the grease on my boots, I confess I placed it there myself. Just as I planted the jar of grease in your bag.

[Dr. Watson]

But why, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A fraud accomplished two ends. It forced you, Mr. Corcoran, into a betrayal of your love. But what was more important, it proved from what Dr. Watson's natural reactions were that a man holding the creased boots could not fail to realize that fact at once. You brazenly committed murder before our very eyes, Mr. Corcoran, hoping to appear as an innocent victim of another's plot. Your theory is an ingenious one, Mr. Holmes. But how can you prove it? I can claim that my hands are unusually insensitive. Not the delicate fingers of a doctor like your friend.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Yes, he's right, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How can you prove it when with your kind cooperation, Sergeant, we find the body of Mr. Hankin and examine it. I shall study his boots. If the grease was applied at the hotel as it would have been if Sean or Flaherty had done it, the boots will reveal dust from the walk here. If there is no dust, the grease must have been applied as you grasped your partner's boots with grease smeared hands. Mr. Corcoran, you should know best what my tests will reveal.

[Dr. Watson]

Grim, Sergeant. Grab him. He come back.

[Arkay Spirits Announcer]

Come back. And stout.

[Dr. Watson]

Please don't. Goodbye, Molly, me darling. Great Scotty. He jumped off the parapet.

[Sergeant Bartel]

Now, Mr. Holmes, you can see that I was right, sir, wasn't I?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you mean, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Bartel]

Oh, in waiting until tomorrow to get the search party. Now we can be after finding both bodies at the one time.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Well, Doctor, that was.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

That was really an unusual story.

[Dr. Watson]

Even now I get a bit of a shudder when I think of that afternoon at the castle.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

I don't blame you, Doctor.

[Sergeant Bartel]

You know something?

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Earlier this evening I said that if I ever got to Ireland, I'd certainly want to kiss the Blarney Stone, remember? Yeah, well, I've changed my mind. I no more want to hang by my heels to kiss that stone than. Well, just let's forget it.

[Dr. Watson]

But my boy, don't forget, if you kiss that stone, you get the gift of eloquence. You'd be the most convincing fellow in the world.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So.

[Jeffrey Hankin]

So?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, whenever you talked about Petri wine, you'd really do people a favor because they wouldn't be able to resist trying it.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Oh, talking about Petri wine isn't important, Doctor. The best way to determine just how good Petri wine really is is.

[Dr. Watson]

Is to taste it.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

One sip and there's all the proof you need. That's because the Petrie family has developed the art of winemaking to a truly fine point. They've been making wine for generations. And all of the things the Petrie family knows about turning luscious sun ripened grapes into fragrant, delicious wine have been handed on down in the family from father to son. From father to son. That's why whenever you want a swell wine for any occasion, you can't go wrong with a Petri wine. Because Petri took time to bring you good wine. Well, Dr. Watson, what new Sherlock Holmes story are you planning to tell us next week?

[Jeffrey Hankin]

Well, now, let me see.

[Dr. Watson]

Next week, Mr. Bartel, I'm going to tell you a story in which that arch criminal, Professor Moriarty played a most important part. It deals with the theft of a famous painting, of a strange night that Sherlock Holmes and I spent trapped in the interior of a giant metal vault and of mysterious blood stains in an empty room.

[Narrator/Announcer (Petri Wine)]

Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure was written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in this Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Case of Identity. Music is by Dean Fossler. 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, 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 goodnight for the Petri family for a solid hour of exciting mystery dramas. Listen every Monday on most of these Same stations at 8 o' clock to Bulldog Drummond, followed immediately by Sherlock Holmes. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.