Sherlock Holmes: Madness of Colonel Warburton

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes: Madness of Colonel Warburton

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives
Episode Date: September 5, 2025

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Main Theme and Purpose

This episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives features a drama adaptation of "The Madness of Colonel Warburton," a Sherlock Holmes mystery originally referenced in Doyle’s story "The Engineer’s Thumb." Holmes and Watson are drawn into a case involving spiritualist trickery, a colonel’s questionable sanity, family secrets, and the interplay between faith, fraud, and reputation. The story is a tense exploration of grief, gullibility, and deception within an upper-class British family.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Holmes’ Ennui and the Start of a New Case

• [02:50] – Holmes is restless, relying on cocaine for stimulation in Watson's absence, highlighting his dependence on challenging problems.

  • “My work is my oxygen; taken away and I suffocate. I’m only alive when my brain has something to do.” – Holmes [04:22]

• [05:17] – Watson brings post, including a letter from Michael Warburton, whose father, Colonel Warburton, is involved in spiritualist séances and possibly being defrauded.

  • “He’s planning to give away... everything he owns to the couple who bring him the messages.” – Lt. Michael Warburton [07:27]

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2. Introduction to the Séance and the Bessemers

• [06:42] – Michael Warburton explains to Holmes and Watson that his father is convinced by messages from his deceased wife, delivered via the spiritualist couple, the Bessemers.
• [08:53] – Michael wants Holmes to expose the Bessemers as frauds but has no proof. Holmes urges a scientific, open-minded approach.
  • “Until I do [have data], I prefer to keep an open mind.” – Holmes [09:00]

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3. First Séance—Tricks and Emotional Manipulation

• [12:06] – Holmes and Watson (undercover as Mr. Collins) attend a séance. Mrs. Bessemer is supposedly restrained and isolated, but the dark setting and emotional tension allow for trickery.

  • “For the benefit of our new friends, I must explain that even though she’s isolated behind the curtain, Mrs. Bessemer is under our supervision at all times.” – Mr. Bessmer [14:34]

• [17:05] – Fake manifestations occur, including the conjuring of a "spirit" and the presentation of the Colonel’s buried wife’s wedding ring.

  • “What kind of human being robs a grave for profit?” – Dr. John Watson [18:54]

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4. Investigations and Revelations

• [20:38] – Holmes investigates the Bessemer household but is thwarted by their security. He suspects they have secrets worth protecting.

  • “What are they protecting, do you suppose? Their lives or their secrets?” – Holmes [20:53]

• [25:57] – Watson, emotionally shaken by a séance message from his late wife, demands Holmes act.

  • “They had the damnable gore to conjure up my wife like some 10th rate musical act.” – Dr. John Watson [25:06]

• [26:41] – Watson questions how the ring trick was executed, and Holmes and Watson check Elizabeth Warburton’s grave, confirming the ring was a fake.

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5. Confrontation and Psychological Maneuvering

• [30:19] – Holmes confronts Michael Warburton, initially accusing him of conspiring with the Bessemers to defraud his father. Michael vehemently denies this and offers to prove it.
  • “You never wanted me to disabuse your father… You had to be seen to be taking action.” – Holmes [30:44]
  • “There's not one single shred of truth in anything you've said.” – Lt. Michael Warburton [31:51]

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6. Final Séance and Unmasking the Crime

• [33:44] – Another séance is staged. Watson, under Holmes’s guidance, disrupts the proceedings, exposing Mrs. Bessmer and her accomplices as fakes using physical evidence and a magnesium flare.

  • “Now kiss me, John. Kiss me, my love.” – Elizabeth Warburton (posing as Mary) [37:00]
  • “Thank you…I don’t think so.” – Watson, breaking the illusion [37:04]

• [37:20] – Holmes reveals the Bessemers’ scheme and the Colonel’s complicity, forced by blackmail over a family secret.

  • “Their knowledge came from an impeccable source.” – Holmes [38:42]

• [39:14] – The Colonel confesses: he provided information to the Bessemers under blackmail related to his son’s past indiscretion, fearing scandal for his family and regiment.

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7. Tragic Resolution and Reflections on Truth

• [41:03] – The Colonel chooses to end the blackmail and scandal violently, killing the Bessemers and himself, ensuring his son’s secret dies with him and protecting the regiment's honor.

  • “No gentleman in his right mind would kill twice and then put a pistol to his own head in front of witnesses. Therefore he was not in his right mind. Exactly as your colonel intended.” – Holmes [42:16]

• [43:07] – Holmes explains the séance tricks and reflects on the case’s moral ambiguities.

  • On the rope trick: “It’s a question of accumulated slack. The longer the rope, the easier to slip it off.” – Holmes [43:11]
  • On Michael’s inspiration for deducing the truth: “There I have more cause to be grateful to my father than you can ever know.” – Holmes recounts [43:27]

• [44:01] – The episode closes with a melancholic exchange between Holmes and Watson on the nature of empathy, sacrifice, and understanding.

  • “Perhaps if you had a son, you would understand.” – Colonel Warburton [41:01]
  • “Do you understand?” – Holmes asks Watson [44:04]
  • “Don’t you?” – Watson [44:13]
  • “Not yet. Good night, Watson.” – Holmes [44:17]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “My work is my oxygen; taken away and I suffocate. I’m only alive when my brain has something to do.” – Holmes [04:22]
• “Until I do [have data], I prefer to keep an open mind.” – Holmes [09:00]
• “The dead don’t return in order to offer financial advice.” – Watson [11:21]
• “Thank you…I don’t think so.” – Watson (resisting the spirit’s advances; unmasking the fraud) [37:04]
• “No gentleman in his right mind would kill twice and then put a pistol to his own head in front of witnesses. Therefore he was not in his right mind. Exactly as your colonel intended.” – Holmes [42:16]
• “Some truths are the better for not being dragged into the cold light of day.” – Colonel Warburton [28:09] & Holmes [42:47]

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Section Timestamps

• [02:50] Holmes and Watson reunite; Holmes’ mood and need for stimulation
• [05:17–07:41] The letter and the Warburton family’s troubles; introduction of the séance
• [12:06–19:09] First séance and spectacle; the “spirit” and the ring trick
• [20:38–25:57] Holmes’ investigation and Watson’s emotional confrontation
• [30:19–32:20] Holmes accuses Michael Warburton; dramatic denial
• [33:44–38:13] The climactic séance, exposure, and confrontation
• [39:14–41:43] Colonel’s confession, meaning of sacrifice, and the case’s tragic resolution
• [43:07–44:33] Final explanations, reflection, and emotional closing

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Concluding Insights

The Madness of Colonel Warburton combines classic detective intrigue with psychological and emotional depth. The episode interrogates the appeal of spiritualism to the bereaved, the vulnerabilities exploited by charlatans, and the lengths to which people will go to guard a family’s honor—even at the cost of their own lives. It stands out for its interplay of reason versus belief, and its nuanced portrayal of sacrifice and loyalty.

Holmes and Watson’s partnership, marked by scientific rigor and emotional empathy, ultimately exposes a haunting scheme—proving that even the sharpest minds sometimes overlook the deeper motivations of the human heart.

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Transcript

[Dr. John Watson]

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[Sherlock Holmes]

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[Dr. John Watson]

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[Elizabeth Warburton]

Wow, wow, wow, wow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why is that?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

This is amazing.

[Dr. John Watson]

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[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

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[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

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[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

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[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

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[Podbean Announcer 1]

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio, where we bring to you the greatest old time.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Radio shows like us on Facebook.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank.

[Mr. Bessmer]

You for [e-mail] Feet of rope, 20ft of steel chain. Sealed bandages over the eyes, ears, mouth and other natural orifices. Would anyone care to examine the restraints? Of course not, Colonel.

[Dr. John Watson]

They're not necessary, thank you.

[Mr. Bessmer]

As you wish. Are you quite comfortable, my dear?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then I shall conceal you from view.

[Mr. Bessmer]

And we can begin. Friends, let us pray.

[Narrator]

The Madness of Colonel Warburton by Bert Coulls. With Clive Medicine as Sherlock Holmes and Andrew Sachs as Dr. John Watson. And featuring Timothy west as Colonel Warburton, Eleanor Bron as Miss. As Bessmer and Strew and Roger as Mr. Bessmer. The madness of Colonel Warburton.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Ah.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Unmistakable. Right foot dragging. This must be tired. Double the stairs. Pause. Rest.

[Dr. John Watson]

And on. Arm. Arm.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now, Watson, welcome home. Welcome home. Welcome home.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, it's good to be back.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now, you had a bad journey? The train was late. No, no, the train wasn't late. You had trouble getting a cab?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, not now, ma'. Am.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it's one of the capital. The capital. The cab.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And then you had a wait in line behind two. No, not two, three. Three other men. Then you had to lift your own suitcase on board. Three other men?

[Dr. John Watson]

That's dreadful, Holmes. Show me your arm.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And then lecture me, Doctor. I'm too good a move.

[Dr. John Watson]

Far too good. Come here. Now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm cutting down.

[Dr. John Watson]

Are you indeed?

[Sherlock Holmes]

5% solution. It's better than 7, surely. I thought you'd be pleased.

[Dr. John Watson]

So, my dear, how is everything?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Now, James, I've already told you, stop fussing. It couldn't be nicer.

[Dr. John Watson]

There's plenty to occupy you then.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Well, I'm never bored, if that's what you mean. There are so many people to talk to and there's always someone who needs my help.

[Dr. John Watson]

Now don't you go squandering your time on every lame dog. Elizabeth, I know what you're like.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Squandering my time? Don't be foolish, James.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, right. I suppose that's not really an issue.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

No, not really.

[Dr. John Watson]

Pleased?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good God.

[Dr. John Watson]

What'S the use? You've heard it all before.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's true enough. Just as you've heard my reasons.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, just because you don't have any work you don't have to poison yourself with that filthy stuff.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I do. My work is my oxygen taken away and I suffocate. I'm only alive and my brain has something to do.

[Dr. John Watson]

And you're seriously telling me that cocaine supplies that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

If only I could make you see the clarity, the insight, the understanding. Without it I can't live in your empty everyday world, Doctor. It's like a prison.

[Dr. John Watson]

Wasn't there anything while I was away?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nothing of any interest? I'm sorry, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Here, I brought up the post. There might be something.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let's see. Nothing, nothing, Nothing. Social invitation Bill.

[Dr. John Watson]

Nothing, nothing. Ah, what have you got?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Posted late last night in central London that the writer lives out of town. A young man, well educated, with firm opinions and the matter's important but not urgent because?

[Dr. John Watson]

Because it were, he would have sent a telegram.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Bravo, Watson, bravo.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Bravo, Bravo.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well what?

[Dr. John Watson]

It's something important.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh yeah?

[Dr. John Watson]

Then it could be a case.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It certainly could.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well then, for the love of heaven, open it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can't do that.

[Dr. John Watson]

Why not? For pity's sake.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's addressed to you.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, here. Thank.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

You.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, it's from Michael Warburton, a friend. Son of a friend.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, an acquaintance.

[Dr. John Watson]

My old CEO from the Berkshires, Colonel James Warburton, retired now. This is about him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Something's wrong.

[Dr. John Watson]

So everything's looking good then? Good?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Good doesn't begin to describe it, my dear. It's simply beautiful, James. Heaven is simply beautiful.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes. Yes, I think you could say that. Something's wrong.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So, Mr. Warburton.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Lieutenant Warburton. Mr. Holmes. I followed my father into the regiment.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very good. Now the facts, if you please.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

But surely you've seen my letter, if you please.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very well.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

My father is Colonel James Warburton. He's a soldier of great distinction, a man of intelligence and honor and the holder of the Victoria Cross. He is also absolutely convinced that his late wife, my mother, is communicating with him from beyond the grave.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A man's beliefs are his own affair. Surely.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Not if they affect the lives of other people. Mr. Holmes, on the advice of my dead mother, he.

[Dr. John Watson]

Go on, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

On the advice of my dead mother. Gentlemen. The old man's planning to give away.

[Dr. John Watson]

Everything he owns to the regiment, but to some charity.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

No doctor, not to a charity. He's giving the whole lot to the couple who bring him the messages.

[Dr. John Watson]

From his wife of course. I'm sure it's her I ought to know. My own wife, ma'. Am. Yes, of course. Besides some of the things she says, no one else could possibly know them. Everyone here says the same thing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I know, but even so, I.

[Dr. John Watson]

Mean it goes against all reason.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

You still have doubts, Sir Robert?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Mrs. Bessman, you still have doubts but you were open minded enough to come.

[Dr. John Watson]

The Colonel here was very persuasive.

[Mr. Bessmer]

We meet again on Saturday. Sir Robert come with an open mind and a clear heart. And there could well be a message for you.

[Dr. John Watson]

For me?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

We all have friends in the land of Mist, Sir Robert. Companions, colleagues, loved ones. Will you come?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Yes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes I will.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Does your mother actually appear at these seances?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

My mother is dead, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well then, does someone purporting to be your mother appear?

[Dr. John Watson]

No.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

As I understand it, there's just a voice in the darkness.

[Dr. John Watson]

Who is the medium?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Her name is Mrs. Bessmer. It's her husband who runs things. That's all I know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you desire me to demonstrate to the Colonel that these Bessmers are frauds and the message is fake?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Exactly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So do you have any proof? Proof?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

I don't need proof.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good God.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Surely you're not suggesting that this business could be genuine?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have no data. Until I do I prefer to keep an open mind.

[Dr. John Watson]

An open mind?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The scientific approach is my way.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh for heaven's sake, Holmes.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Well sorry mate, your way. But it isn't mine. Look, my father is besotted with the Bessemers. He insists on singing their praises to anyone who'll listen. His old friends. My friends, Dr. Watson. You understand what I'm saying?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, I'm afraid I do. The Colonel is making himself a laughingstock.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Exactly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And are you with him?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

I'm not denied. But it's him I'm thinking of. His reputation, his good name. And beyond that, the honour of the regiment itself is at stake. I can't just stand by and let it happen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

So if you can't help me, Mr. Holmes, I'll find someone else to snap.

[Dr. John Watson]

Him out of this insanity. Insanity? You think the Colonel's actually lost his mind?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

I wish I did think that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you mean?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

If he were mad, certifiably mad, then he couldn't be held responsible for his Actions.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And if there's no accountability, there's no shame, no disgrace.

[Dr. John Watson]

Exactly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The military mind. Fascinating. Ah.

[Dr. John Watson]

What's the matter?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe we're about to experience a visitation of our own. Won't you come in, Colonel? It's a little unfriendly to converse across the room. Though I understand you're accustomed to somewhat greater distances. I am Sherlock Holmes. You might recall my associate, Dr. Watts.

[Dr. John Watson]

I know who you are. What has my son been telling you? Father? Be silent, sir. You've no idea what you're dealing with. Mr. Holmes, has my son actually engaged you professionally?

[Sherlock Holmes]

He's inquired after my services. I've given him no answer as yet.

[Dr. John Watson]

Excellent. Then we can consider the matter closed.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think not. I beg your pardon, Lieutenant. I'll give you my decision in the morning.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Thank you, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

I'm not accustomed to being treated in this manner.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now, good day to you both. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes. This way, please, gentlemen.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Mr. Holmes. Father. You coming, Colonel? Very well. Mr. Holmes, this affair has implications beyond your understanding. I suggest that you keep your meddling nose out of matters which do not concern you. Good day.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, well, well.

[Dr. John Watson]

You were insufferably rude.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it's a useful technique sometimes. Well, what do you think?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, he's not mad, just gullible.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you've made up your mind on the case?

[Dr. John Watson]

But Holmes, the dead don't return in order to offer financial advice.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perhaps not. We'll see.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Bessmer]

It's all right, Rose. I'll deal with this.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Of course, sir.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Can I help you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Desma, is it?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Maybe.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who wants to know? Collins. Jonathan Collins. Perhaps I have the wrong house.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Well, that depends, Mr. Collins.

[Dr. John Watson]

I was told that you can put.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Me in touch with someone.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Who told you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A client.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I work at one of the city banks. Perhaps if I give you my card.

[Dr. John Watson]

Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Small establishment, but select. Perhaps you've heard of us.

[Mr. Bessmer]

I have indeed. Please come inside. My wife is a wonderful woman, Mr. Collins. A wonderful woman who's been blessed with a wonderful gift.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, so I've been given to understand.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Who is it you have in spirit?

[Dr. John Watson]

Big pardon?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Who is it who's passed through the veil? Your own wife, perhaps A para.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, I see. My sister, sir. Beatrice. Taken from me by illness. Oh, it must have been a terrible blow. Unendurable. Mr. Bessmer. I wasn't present at the passing. You see, she called out for me, but I wasn't there. How distressing. She wanted to say something to me.

[Mr. Bessmer]

A message.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can only suppose so. I wasn't there hitting me up. Mr. Besmer, what was the message? What could it have been? I have to know. Can you help me? Tell me you can help me.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

We can help you. Huh?

[Mr. Bessmer]

This is my wife.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Have no more fear, Mr. Collins. You've come to the right place.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, what happened then?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Disappointingly, down to earth. For a trifling donation of 40 guineas.

[Dr. John Watson]

How much?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm invited to the next salons. Eight for eight. 30.

[Mr. Bessmer]

The medium is secured. We can begin. If you'll take your places.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There were six of us altogether, not including the Bessmother.

[Dr. John Watson]

Was the Colonel there?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, yes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Did he recognize you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please, Watson. Sorry.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Now, as you all know, we have two new members of the circle with us tonight.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Mr. Collins here has recently lost his sister to the spirit world.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. You're very kind.

[Mr. Bessmer]

And Mrs. Fryer grieves for her daughter, Jane.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Janie.

[Dr. John Watson]

No, you mustn't grieve Margaret. She's not taken from you. She's just moved on.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's all.

[Dr. John Watson]

You see?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Thank you, Colonel. Thank you.

[Mr. Bessmer]

They come as you all have come, in search of the great truth. Mr. Collins, Mrs. Fryer, friends, if you'll put your hands flat on the table.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Like this.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Yes, yes, that's the way. Now we all grasp the hands of the people next to us.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

The circle of power.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, yes, of course.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, this is the purest poppycock.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Is it?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, of course it is.

[Mr. Bessmer]

For the benefit of our new friends, I must explain that even though she's isolated behind the curtain, Mrs. Bessemer is under our supervision at all times. The least movement will be felt in the control ropes tied to her wrists. Colonel, you have yours, I have Mrs. Cole.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

As safe as the bank of England.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very good. Very good.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Now, if we can all compose ourselves.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We all sat there with our hands touching. Mrs. Bessmer was out of sight, tied up behind her curtain. Then Besmer reached out behind him and turned out the lamp. It was pitch black.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ever wonder what life is like with a phantom screen?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's magic. It is?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, wow. Wow, wow, wow. Wow, wow, wow, wow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is that?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

This is amazing.

[Dr. John Watson]

Retractable screens for your home. Make life better. Visit Phantom Screens dot com.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, my dear Lord.

[Mr. Bessmer]

It's all right, Mr. Collins. The power is upon.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Mrs. Bessmer.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Don't be alarmed. This is perfectly natural.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Mummy. Mummy. Mummy. Oh, dear God. Mummy. Jane. Janey, darling. Is it really you? Course it's me, Mummy. Janie. Janie. Sugar Cane. Oh, I used to call her that. I used to.

[Dr. John Watson]

It is all right.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Talk to her. Mrs. Froyer.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Oh, yes, yes. Janie, darling, are you all right? Of course I am. Oh, thank God. Thank God. I have to go now, Mummy. Oh, no. No, you mustn't. Stay here with me. I can't, Mummy. They won't let. No.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Who won't let you? What do you mean? I tried to come again, Mummy, if they'll let me come every week.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

No. Something touched me. Something touched my face.

[Mr. Bessmer]

It was her spirit departing from the circle. You're very privileged to have felt it.

[Dr. John Watson]

You're so laughing.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Let's compose ourselves. Friends. I feel there's more to come.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Good evening, James.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ah, my dear.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

I have something for you.

[Dr. John Watson]

What do you mean, Elizabeth? Something for me.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

There's too much doubt in the world, James. Too many people have closed their minds to the truth.

[Dr. John Watson]

People who should know better.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

The power is strong tonight. Your belief makes it strong. Believe, James.

[Dr. John Watson]

I do believe.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

I bring you something. For those with no faith, I bring you proof.

[Dr. John Watson]

Elizabeth.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Don't break the circle. Stay where you are, all of you.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Oh, my God. Look.

[Dr. John Watson]

Dear God.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Heaven protect us.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Keep calm. Keep perfectly calm.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There was something in the center of the table. Something darker than the darkness. A shape.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, what are you saying?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It moved. It was growing, stretching.

[Dr. John Watson]

A trick.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It changed. It became a form.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Nobody move.

[Dr. John Watson]

It won't harm us. No. No, she won't. Oh, now, come on.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It was a figure kneeling in the center of the table. There was something in its. In her hand. She laid it in front of the Colonel. And then she was gone.

[Mr. Bessmer]

I'm going to put the light on.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mrs. Bessemer. Is she all right?

[Mr. Bessmer]

My dear? Wait.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

What happened?

[Dr. John Watson]

This happened.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is that?

[Dr. John Watson]

It's what she promised me. My proof. It's my wife's wedding ring. She was buried wearing it. Well, Doctor, what kind of human being robs a grave for profit?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You're convinced it was some sort of trick, then?

[Dr. John Watson]

Of course it was a trick. You were in total darkness. I could have done more or less anything. Were there any other manifestations? No.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, that was the grand finale.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, Mr. Collins. Sister didn't show up then? No. They hadn't had time to dig up enough details to make it convincing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, the same thought occurred to me.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, so you're not completely on their side here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. I'm not on any side. Not yet.

[Dr. John Watson]

I'm pleased to hear it. So, what will you tell the colonel's son? Will you accept the case?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, didn't I mention that I Already have. I'm going out. Don't wait up. Very well. Well, well. Fascinating. Why, you.

[Dr. John Watson]

Wasn't that just a touch drastic, burgling their house?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I didn't burgle it. I didn't get inside.

[Dr. John Watson]

Only because you were nearly caught by the police.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Give me some credit, Watson. I'm more than a match for a tired constable with a nagging wife and lumbago. Besides, he wasn't the reason.

[Dr. John Watson]

Then what was?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The reinforced glass, the triple locks on the windows and the case hardened bolts on the back door. Mr. And Mrs. Bessemer value their security. What are they protecting, do you suppose? Their lives or their secrets?

[Dr. John Watson]

There's been a development.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Something happened while I was out. A message from our client.

[Dr. John Watson]

From his father.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, Another warning for me to back off?

[Dr. John Watson]

Actually, the message was for me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes? The colonel wants to see me tomorrow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Gentlemen.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Your health, Colonel. Frankly, Doctor, I'm sick and tired of hearing about my health. The Berkshires. The Berkshires. Thank you for coming. I wasn't too sure that you would. Why did you want to see me, Colonel? To ask you a question. What question? Do you believe that I'm mad? No, I don't. Then you think I'm deluded. I think you may have fallen victim to some very clever tricksters. But you've not actually made up your mind on the subject. Well, good man. Now listen, Watson, I have a proposition for you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Splendid.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, you think so, don't you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It means I don't have to risk the disguise again. You'll be there as a legitimate invited guest. Couldn't be better.

[Dr. John Watson]

What's your objection? Suppose the Bessemers know who I am.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm sure they will. John H. Watson, a famous crime writer.

[Dr. John Watson]

And biographer of a certain celebrated detective. If I walk into the house, why.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Should they make the connection? You said the colonel hasn't told them that I'm involved.

[Dr. John Watson]

No, but even so, you'll simply be.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There as a friend of one of the regulars and a possible convert, so why should they be suspicious?

[Dr. John Watson]

I still don't like it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Alerting the Bessemers isn't what's worrying you, is it? What's really wrong?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, you've already said it. The colonel's invited me because he thinks I'll be convinced. He wants me to sing their praises in the Strand Magazine.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you can't see that happening?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, of course I can't. If I go, it'll be a betrayal of trust. I can't justify it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I've been making Some inquiries of my own. A little discreet investigation into the other sitters.

[Dr. John Watson]

What were you looking for?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, discharged servants, garrulous neighbors, relatives given to gossip. Any possible source for the best of his private knowledge.

[Dr. John Watson]

And?

[Sherlock Holmes]

And I found nothing. I need more inside information.

[Dr. John Watson]

What's.

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[Mr. Bessmer]

Open your hearts. Open your hearts and open your minds. And they will appear.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

John? John, can you hear me? John?

[Mr. Bessmer]

My God.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

John, aren't you there? Speak to me, please.

[Dr. John Watson]

Who is it?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Oh, John. Have you forgotten me so soon? It's Mary. It's your wife.

[Dr. John Watson]

The Bessemers are crooks. I want them stopped.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have proof?

[Dr. John Watson]

In all the years we've worked together.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Tell me. Tell me what happened.

[Dr. John Watson]

They presented me with Mary. They had the damnable gore to conjure up my wife like some 10th rate musical act.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You saw?

[Dr. John Watson]

I saw nothing. I heard a lot of platitudes about love and faithfulness and heaven. And I felt. Well, never mind what I felt. And don't you dare ask me if it could have been real. I swear to you on everything I hold dear, my Mary was not in that room. You believe me?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe you. Beyond your first name and your wife's, were there any other private details? No, none. Nothing they couldn't have discovered for themselves. Then. Your names, even the very fact that you had a wife who died young. It's all a matter of public record.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, but what about the other sitters? I heard things no one else could possibly have known. They all said it. It's their main reason for believing. So the Bessemers must be getting private information from somewhere.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There is another possibility.

[Mr. Bessmer]

There is?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Think about the atmosphere. The build up, the expectation. Darkness, tension. You must have felt it.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh yes, I did.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Think about the others. Look in their eyes. The hunger, the need for reassurance.

[Dr. John Watson]

You're saying they're more than halfway convinced even before the sound starts?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Certainly. Read more into the messages than it's actually there. Exactly.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, that makes sense. It would help with the voices too. They want them to be real.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The result is instant faith.

[Dr. John Watson]

Instant riches too. At 40 guineas a time.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But I still don't know what's troubling you.

[Dr. John Watson]

The ring. How did they do.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The ring? Oh, yes, the ring.

[Dr. John Watson]

Here we are, gentlemen, the Warburton vault. It's been in the family for more than 10 generations.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And the late Elizabeth Warburton was buried.

[Dr. John Watson]

And has been these 13 years. How many people have a key to these gates? Only the family.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So it wouldn't be possible to go inside the vault?

[Dr. John Watson]

I'm afraid it's out of the question. I'm sorry your journey's been wasted, my.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dear Sexton, it's been nothing of the sort. Neither the ground nor the locks have been disturbed in a very long time. Captain.

[Dr. John Watson]

The ring was a fake then? A duplicate evidently. That must have involved a lot of work. Discovering the style, having it made, making sure it looked old and worn.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Our friends are thorough. Ah, I think we've arrived. Time for us to divide our friends.

[Dr. John Watson]

If you come to see my son, Mr. Holmes, you should have sent word first. It would have saved you a journey.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The Lieutenant is not here.

[Dr. John Watson]

He's at a regimental dinner in London.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, perhaps you'd be interested to hear of my progress.

[Narrator]

I would not.

[Dr. John Watson]

What my son chooses to do is his affair. I'll have no part in it. Since I know that the Bessemers are genuine, why should I be interested in your futile attempts to prove otherwise?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why indeed?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Good day.

[Sherlock Holmes]

As you, Colonel.

[Dr. John Watson]

Mr. Holmes. Colonel, some truths are the better for not being dragged into the cold light of day. I ask you to remember that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Colonel. What did you see on your walk around the garden? Describe the house.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, only the central part is occupied. The rest seemed to be empty. Wasn't in too good a state, actually.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Any signs of repair work?

[Dr. John Watson]

No, none at all. More recently. What about indoors?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The same. Fascinating, don't you think? The servants were interesting too.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, you spoke to them?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I counted them. Tell Mrs. Hudson you'll be dining alone tonight. I have work to do. Ah, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, you missed an excellent dinner.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look at this.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, what is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A copy of the Colonel's will. His first will before the recent changes in favor of the Bessemers.

[Dr. John Watson]

How did you get hold of this?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, it was simple enough to find out the name of the Colonel's solicitor. I went round to his office.

[Dr. John Watson]

At this time of night?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Home.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Where I discovered him working late. He was delighted to see me, happy to reminisce about the time I saved one of his clients from the gallows. Only too pleased to do me a small favor in return.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, sorry.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You know, you can be far too suspicious sometimes. I didn't need these at all.

[Dr. John Watson]

No.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now read that.

[Dr. John Watson]

Let me see. Well, it's unusual, but is it significant?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think it's extremely significant.

[Dr. John Watson]

You do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why get your hat. I'll explain on the way. Good evening, Lieutenant Warburton. My apologies for interrupting your dinner.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Oh, good Lord, man, never mind that. What have you found out?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe I can prove to the Colonel that he's being deceived.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

You believe? Is your proof good enough to convince him or not?

[Dr. John Watson]

That's hard to say. His conviction is very deep seated. It's based on something far stronger than simply the facts.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But then that's exactly what you're counting on, isn't it?

[Dr. John Watson]

What?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You don't want me to disabuse your father. You never wanted it. That's not why you engage me.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

What are you talking about?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You had to be seen to be taking action.

[Dr. John Watson]

How would it have looked to the regiment if you just stood by and let your father give away his entire estate?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Are you making some sort of accusation?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It would have looked suspicious in the extreme. And so you came to me and engaged me to uncover the very fraud that you yourself were perpetrating.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Oh, this is outrageous.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The Colonel's house was the vital clue.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

The house? What about the house?

[Dr. John Watson]

Your father's will, his old will was quite specific. You were to.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

How the devil do you know what was in my father's will?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Knowing things is my business. You were to inherit the house and the land on condition that you never sell them.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Of course I wouldn't sell them. That house has been in our family for generations.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now it's all but derelict. It would take a fortune to restore it, leaving you with nothing. You could say goodbye to your high life.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

You're saying I cooked up this whole business just to get rid of the house?

[Dr. John Watson]

You fed private information to the Bessemers. You supplied the duplicate wedding ring. You did everything in your power to make the seances convincing.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

I've never set eyes on the best.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What was your arrangement with them? What's your cut going to be? When they sold the estate, what price did you put on betraying your father?

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

By God, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

All right, that's enough.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

I've listened to you, now you can listen to me. There's not one single shred of truth in anything you've said. The thought that I would do that to my father. I have more cause to be grateful to my father than you can ever know. If you don't believe me, then let's go.

[Dr. John Watson]

Now.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Right now to these Bessemers and see if they'll recognize me. And while we're there, I'll beat the truth out of them. Oh, I should have done that from the start. Well, are we going?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, it isn't necessary. Lieutenant. You have my profound apologies.

[Dr. John Watson]

What the devil was that all about?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was wrong.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, I realized that much. But what's changed your mind?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Weren't you listening to him?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, of course I was, but you must have heard more than I did. What was it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's not important. The question now is, what do we do next?

[Dr. John Watson]

Do we have to start all over again?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of course not. I've solved the case.

[Dr. John Watson]

You have?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, to be strictly accurate, Lieutenant Warburton solved it for me. But. But what?

[Dr. John Watson]

Now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, I know that tone. You need my help, but you're not sure if I'll go along with it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Am I really that transparent?

[Dr. John Watson]

Only to me. What is it, another burglary?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid it's something rather more upsetting.

[Dr. John Watson]

You want me to go to another one of those damned seances?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's part of it. Part of it?

[Dr. John Watson]

Are you sure this time?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite sure.

[Dr. John Watson]

You can definitely put a stop to the Bessemers?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I can.

[Dr. John Watson]

Right. What do you need me to do?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Are you comfortable, my dear? Excellent. Now if we could take our seats.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Dr. John Watson]

This is very good of you, Mr. Bessemer.

[Mr. Bessmer]

The Colonel is one of our greatest champions. Any friend of his.

[Dr. John Watson]

The other night when. When Mary came through, it was just overwhelming. Same for me, first time. But with all those others there. Strangers. I mean, I. I just couldn't. You understand?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Oh, there's no need to explain, Doctor. It's an intensely personal experience. We understand completely.

[Dr. John Watson]

It's really very good of you. You're quite sure you want me here, Watson? I'd be perfectly happy to go wait outside or whatever. Oh, no, no, no, Colonel, no, no. You're used to all this, I'm not. I'd be grateful if you stay.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Now, gentlemen, you have the rope securely?

[Dr. John Watson]

Perfectly, Doctor, yes.

[Mr. Bessmer]

And you're quite satisfied with the restraints?

[Dr. John Watson]

I'd have been perfectly content to forego all this.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Oh, no, no, no. That would never do. You must be sure that whatever happens, my wife is not directly responsible. Now, if you're both ready.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ready. Ready.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Excellent. Then I'll turn out the lamp. And if we link our free hands, then the circle is complete. Free your minds. Open your hearts. And the spirits will come. They will come.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

John? John, are you there?

[Mr. Bessmer]

Answer her, Doctor.

[Dr. John Watson]

Call her to you.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

John.

[Dr. John Watson]

Mary.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Oh, John. It's so good to talk to you. I've missed you so much.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, Mary. Is it really you?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Oh, it is. It is. Oh, my dearest love.

[Dr. John Watson]

It seems so fantastic.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Always believe, John. It's your belief that makes it possible. You do believe?

[Dr. John Watson]

I want to. I want to so much.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

I can help you believe.

[Dr. John Watson]

How?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

The power is strong tonight. Your faith can make it stronger.

[Dr. John Watson]

What's going to happen? Don't question it, Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just do as she asks.

[Dr. John Watson]

All right. I will.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Compose your mind. Empty your heart of all doubt and pain. Call to her.

[Dr. John Watson]

Mary. Mary. What happened? Someone touched my shoulder. I felt it.

[Mr. Bessmer]

Don't break the circle. Can you still feel our hands?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes. Oh, my God. It happened again.

[Mr. Bessmer]

She's trying to materialize. Are you still holding the ropes?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes. Yes. And again.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

John, stay calm. Believe. Believe.

[Dr. John Watson]

I believe.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Release your hands, my love. Come to me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Where?

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Beside you. Here. Can you feel my touch?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Then hold me. Hold me as you used to.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Now kiss me, John. Kiss me, my love.

[Dr. John Watson]

I don't think so. Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now what's going on?

[Dr. John Watson]

Everyone stay calm.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

Let me breathe.

[Dr. John Watson]

Including you. Please, madam. You're breaking my arm. No, I'm not. But you'll break it yourself if you don't stop struggling.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

All right, all right.

[Dr. John Watson]

That's better. I've got her, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You underestimate yourself, Doctor. What you've got is all three of them. That's better. Magnesium flares have their uses, but they're hard on the eyes. You're trespassing. You broke in like a common thief. I'll be sure to mention it to the police when they arrive.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, well.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite a whore. Two confidence tricksters and their accompanies.

[Dr. John Watson]

If this is your idea of a.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Joke, sir, there's no point in pretending, Colonel. I know too much.

[Dr. John Watson]

So this whole evening was just a charade? Colonel, I'm sorry. It was the only way.

[Elizabeth Warburton]

You've made a big mistake, the pair of you. You're finished, Warburton. Now it'll all come out. Your sordid little secret.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We'll ruin you and your worthless son.

[Dr. John Watson]

I don't think so.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

No.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Give me the gun.

[Dr. John Watson]

Keep your distance, Holmes. Colonel. You too, Doctor. And you can spare me the pitying look. They were vermin. If you know everything, you know that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I never said I knew everything.

[Dr. John Watson]

Then be good enough to tell me exactly what you do know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I know that the Bessemers were no more in touch with the next world than I am. And I know how they made your messages and your ring so impressively Accurate. Their knowledge came from an impeccable source.

[Dr. John Watson]

You go on. We also suspect that you've been feeding the Bessemers information on your various friends before you persuaded them to come to the seances.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And that you gave a helping hand in the dark by releasing your control on the medium. Are we right?

[Dr. John Watson]

Quite right. And do you know why?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because the Bessemers were blackmailing you.

[Dr. John Watson]

I never realized what a relief it.

[Lieutenant Michael Warburton]

Would be to have it known.

[Dr. John Watson]

I almost feel I should thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Somehow they discovered the secret you worked for so long to get keep hidden. The secret you've spent a fortune to conceal.

[Dr. John Watson]

You really do know everything then? No. We know that this secret concerns your son. Beyond that we know nothing. My son? It was a foolish indiscretion many years ago. He's repented it ever since.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you've successfully kept it from the eyes and the ears of the world.

[Dr. John Watson]

Not just the world, Mr. Holmes, the regiment. Michael has a glorious career in front of him. If the news had become known he would have been finished. And the regiment itself, it would have been tainted. And the Bessemers threatened you with exactly that. In return for their silence. I had to go along with their preposterous lies. I had to convince friends, valued friends, of the wonder of it all. And to my lasting shame, I had to profane the memory of my wife for the sake of their play acting.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Eventually you ran out of friends to introduce. The Bessemers saw your usefulness coming to.

[Dr. John Watson]

An end and they demanded my very home. A final payment.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you gave it at the cost of your own reputation.

[Dr. John Watson]

What was that to me? Do you have a son, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, perhaps if you had, you would understand. Look at this scene. Not exactly the glory of the battlefield, hey, Watson? No, Colonel, no. Damaging to the regiment? I'm afraid so. Unless of course it was the work of a lunatic colonel, someone not responsible for his actions. Then the only blame would be on him. Don't you agree, Colonel?

[Sherlock Holmes]

We know perfectly well that you're in your right mind.

[Dr. John Watson]

I take the liberty of disagreeing with you, sir. And I venture that this will prove me correct. For the Berkshires and for my son. Was it difficult? What? Convincing the police that the colonel was insane?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Scotland Yard brain runs on predictable tracks. No gentleman in his right mind would kill twice and then put a pistol to his own head in front of witnesses. Therefore he was not in his right mind. Exactly as your colonel intended.

[Dr. John Watson]

Do you suppose he planned to shoot them anyway? Even if we hadn't exposed the whole thing?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why else would he have taken the gun. They'd driven him to his limit.

[Dr. John Watson]

Will it have to come out with a blackmail?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The family secret emergency white shoot.

[Dr. John Watson]

Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Some truths are the better for not being dragged into the cold light of day.

[Dr. John Watson]

Who said that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A good man of my queen's.

[Dr. John Watson]

Will you tell me something? What? Well, two things, actually. How did she get out of those ropes and chains?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's a question of accumulated slack.

[Dr. John Watson]

Accumulated slime.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The longer the rope, the easier to slip it off. The chain's the same, actually. The hardest thing is stopping it falling off before you're ready.

[Dr. John Watson]

You almost sound as though you're speaking from experience.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's the second thing?

[Dr. John Watson]

What was it Michael Warburton said that put you onto the solution?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, there I have more cause to be grateful to my father than you can ever know.

[Dr. John Watson]

And that gave you the whole story?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, let's say it put all the other pieces into place. I considered that the Colonel might have been cooperating with the Bessemers, but I dismissed it.

[Dr. John Watson]

Why should he?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It never occurred to me that he.

[Dr. John Watson]

Might have been protecting his son until that moment. Exactly. Then it's a good thing that you did provoke him. I doubt he'd have said it otherwise. True enough.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Will you tell me something?

[Dr. John Watson]

Of course, if I can.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Do you understand?

[Dr. John Watson]

I'm sorry?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perhaps if you had a son, you would understand. Do you?

[Dr. John Watson]

Don't you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not yet. Good night, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good night.

[Narrator]

In The Madness of Colonel Warburton, Sherlock Holmes was played by Clive Medicine and Dr. John Watson by Andrew Sachs. Colonel Warburton was played by Timothy West, Mrs. Bessmer by Eleanor Bron, Mr. Bessmer by Stru and Roger. Michael Warburton by Jamie Newell, Sir Robert by David Bannerman, and Mrs. Fryer by Claire Corbett. Other parts were played by members of the cast. The violinist was Leonard Friedman. The Madness of Colonel Warburton was written by Bert Coulls from a reference in the short story the Engineer's Thumb by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The director was Patrick Rayner.