Sherlock Holmes: Murder at the Opera 02/25/1946 Rathbone & Bruce

Summary

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Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Sherlock Holmes: Murder at the Opera (02/25/1946)

Overview

In this classic episode, Sherlock Holmes (Basil Rathbone) and Dr. Watson (played this week by Eric Snowden) find themselves embroiled in a deadly intrigue at the Roman opera house. The famous soprano, Gina Valchese, seeks Holmes's help, claiming her life is in danger and tragedy soon follows in the form of a bizarre attack. As rumors and emotions swirl among the cast and the public, Holmes must use both deduction and a flair for the dramatic to unmask a murderer and a cunning impostor—serving up a tale of jealousy, ambition, and deception amid the music and glamour of the opera.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene: Roman Holiday for Holmes and Watson

• [03:25-05:06]

  • Dr. Watson narrates how, after solving a confidential Vatican case, he and Holmes are taking a holiday in Rome, delighting in the city's ruins and its famed opera house.

  • They attend a performance of "La Traviata", starring Gina Valchese, whose "magnificent voice" wows the duo but prompts Watson's sly observation about her "well-fed" figure.

    "What a voice, Watson. What a magnificent voice."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [05:06]

2. Backstage Intrigue: Rivals and Requests

• [05:39-11:13]

  • Holmes receives a mysterious note from Valchese asking to see him backstage.

  • At the dressing room, Inspector Bellini introduces Holmes and Watson to Valchese's ambitious understudy, Lisa Bordoni, and her brother.

  • The Americans have Italianized their name for opera success; Lisa jokes about sharing her name with the infamous Lizzie Borden.

    "In any case, my real name is Lizzie Borden. I'm sure you, Mr. Holmes, as a famous detective, will see that I had to change my name."
    —Lisa Bordoni, [09:49]

  • Holmes attempts to meet Valchese, but she coldly rebuffs him at her door, seemingly denying her own request for a meeting.

    "What do you think of that? She slammed the door in my face."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [10:58]

3. A Plea for Help, a Terrible Attack

• [13:02-16:58]

  • The next day, Valchese appears distressed, apologizes for her prior rudeness, and confesses she is being persecuted and fears for her life.

  • Her sister Bella (who closely resembles her) has been critically injured in an attack meant for Valchese herself.

  • The diva reveals a paralyzing fear of cats (ailurophobia), which leads to a breakdown when she senses one nearby.

    "My life is in a danger. You must have saved me."
    —Gina Valchese, [13:37]

4. The Opera Interrupted: The Understudy Takes the Stage

• [17:36-19:14]

  • Holmes and Watson arrive late to that night's opera to discover Lisa Bordoni, the understudy, performing instead of Valchese.

  • Alarmed, they rush to Valchese’s dressing room, finding it locked. Forced entry reveals Valchese unconscious, surrounded by cats—her voice shattered.

    "Some fiend, knowing her deadly fear of cats, has locked her in here with half a dozen of them."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [19:14]

    "I've known many vicious crimes... but to murder a voice that was one of the treasures of the world is as violent a killing as I've ever encountered."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [19:34]

5. Suspicion and Mob Justice

• [21:00-23:26]
  • Watson explains that Lisa’s sudden opportunity at the opera coincided with Valchese’s "accident", fueling crowd suspicion that Lisa orchestrated the attack to advance her career.
  • Inspector Bellini darkly notes the situation worsened: Valchese’s sister Bella has died—what was attempted murder is now murder.
  • Holmes surmises that only Lisa, her brother, or Bellini had motive and opportunity—but the existence of identical twins is a crucial clue.

6. The Cat Test and the Dramatic Unmasking

• [23:26-27:45]

  • Holmes devises an experiment: Watson acquires a cat and stealthily places it in Valchese’s (now Bella's) room. The woman shows no fear, revealing she is not the real Valchese.

  • The imposter (Bella) confesses publicly to killing her own sister and usurping her identity.

    "I charge you with the murder of your sister, the great singer Valchese."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [25:44]

  • Holmes explains the ingenuity: The real Valchese, feeling threatened, involved Holmes, but her own twin sister took advantage—murdering her, assuming her role, and using the cat incident to ensure no one would expect her to sing again.

    "As soon as I knew they were twin sisters in everything but voice, it became more than a possibility, it became probability."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [27:27]

7. Resolution: Justice and a Debut Promised

• [27:45-28:55]

  • Lisa Bordoni is exonerated, thanks Holmes, and promises a box for her London debut.

  • Dr. Watson's caper in stealing a kitchen cat provides comic relief, with the owner crestfallen about his cat’s unusual treatment.

    "A box at Covent Garden for your London debut would be... an ample repayment."
    —Sherlock Holmes, [27:58]

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Notable Quotes & Moments

| Timestamp | Quote | Speaker | |-----------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------| | 05:06 | "What a voice, Watson. What a magnificent voice." | Sherlock Holmes | | 09:49 | "In any case, my real name is Lizzie Borden... I'm sure you, Mr. Holmes, as a famous detective, will see that I had to change my name." | Lisa Bordoni | | 10:58 | "What do you think of that? She slammed the door in my face." | Sherlock Holmes | | 13:37 | "My life is in a danger. You must have saved me." | Gina Valchese | | 19:34 | "To murder a voice that was one of the treasures of the world is as violent a killing as I've ever encountered." | Sherlock Holmes | | 25:44 | "I charge you with the murder of your sister, the great singer Valchese." | Sherlock Holmes | | 27:27 | "As soon as I knew they were twin sisters in everything but voice, it became more than a possibility, it became probability." | Sherlock Holmes | | 27:58 | "A box at Covent Garden for your London debut would be... an ample repayment." | Sherlock Holmes |

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Important Segment Timestamps

| Time | Segment/Event | |----------|-----------------------------------------------------------------| | 03:25 | Watson introduces Roman context and the opera visit | | 05:06 | Holmes and Watson marvel at Valchese's singing | | 05:39 | Holmes receives a summons to Valchese's room | | 09:41 | Lisa and her brother reveal their American origin and ambitions | | 10:58 | Holmes is rebuffed at Valchese's door | | 13:13 | Valchese's plea for help and revelation of the attack | | 16:51 | Holmes names her fear: ailurophobia | | 18:19 | Lisa understudy singing; Holmes and Watson rush backstage | | 19:10 | Discovery: Valchese locked with cats, voice lost | | 22:11 | Bellini reveals Bella’s death (escalation to murder) | | 23:26 | Holmes's plan: Watson must find a cat | | 25:19 | Holmes's experiment reveals the impostor | | 25:44 | Holmes charges Bella with murder | | 27:45 | Holmes explains his deductions and clears Lisa | | 28:08 | Lisa promises Holmes a box at her debut |

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Tone and Style

The episode combines the witty repartee of Holmes and Watson with high melodrama, giving way to tense and suspenseful moments backstage at the opera, then delivering swift, Sherlockian analytics and a climactic public unmasking. Comic relief is provided by the subplots (Watson’s cat caper), and the overall style is brisk, with classic old-time radio flair, vivid atmosphere, and clever, period-appropriate banter.

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Summary for New Listeners

Even if you haven't heard this episode, you’ll find “Murder at the Opera” a masterfully woven tale of treachery and performance, where music, murder, and mistaken identity collide. Sherlock Holmes deploys both logic and play-acting—bolstered by a clever use of feline psychology—to expose a scheming murderer and safeguard ingénue talent. The interplay between the main cast and the suite of opera-house players adds color and red herrings, concluding with justice restored, a star born, and a bit of lighthearted fun at Dr. Watson's expense.

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Transcript

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[Harry Bartel]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] Petri wine brings you

[Sherlock Holmes]

Basil

[Harry Bartel]

Rathbone and the New adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petri family. The family that took time to bring you good wine. It invite you to listen to Dr. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his good friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And as for me, well, I'd like to ask you if you know that one of the favorite wines of American women is Petri California muscatel. In fact, the whole family likes Petri Muscatel. And you'll certainly know why if you'll just pour yourself a glass. Why, that Petri muscatel is wonderful just to look at. It's the color of sheer gold. And raise that glass of Petri Muscatel to your lips. Boy, what a wine. Look, did you ever walk through a vineyard early in the morning, you know, when the dew is still clinging to the grapes? And did you taste one of those luscious, plump Muscat grapes? Then you'll know what to expect the first time you taste Petri Muscatel. Petri Muscatel brings you that same wonderful Muscat flavor right from the heart of the grape. Try serving Petri muscatel after dinner by itself or with fruit or nuts. It's the perfect after dinner wine and serve it proudly because five letters, P, E, T, R. I spell the proudest name in the history of American wine. And now I'm sure our good friend Dr. Watson is ready for us. Let's in and join.

[Dr. Watson]

Come in, come in. Oh, There you are, Mr. Bart.

[Harry Bartel]

Good evening, Doctor. Are you all ready with the nice new Sherlock Holmes adventure?

[Dr. Watson]

I'm ready if you are, my boy. How would you like to hear a story that took place in Italy?

[Harry Bartel]

In Italy? Say, you and the great Sherlock Holmes certainly did get around.

[Dr. Watson]

What took you there, Doctor? We've gone to Rome to investigate the sudden death of Cardinal Tosca. An inquiry which I may tell you, Mr. Bartel, was carried out by Holmes and at the express desire of his Holiness the Pope.

[Harry Bartel]

Say Doctor, that sounds like a wonderful.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, Mr. Bartell, that's a story that I'm afraid I can never tell you. However, tonight's adventure took place a few days after Holmes had brought his case to a satisfactory, though somewhat terrifying conclusion. I suggested to the great man that a short holiday would be good for us before returning to England. And so we spent some happy days browsing among the architectural treasures of old Rome. The Coliseum, the baths of Caracalla, the Forum, the wonderful ruins on the Palatine Hill. I couldn't drag Holmes away from the Mr. Bartel, and at nighttime he was able to indulge to his heart's content his great love of music. Finally, it was two nights before we were to sail for England. I remember we went to the opera house to hear the famous Italian soprano Gina Valchese singing Verdi's immortal La Traviata. I can hear that Exquisite voice Now, Mr. Bartel, as Holmes and I, seated in a box, listen, spellbound to the ale, singing her last.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What a voice, Watson. What a magnificent voice.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes it is, Holmes. A pity though that most opera stars who sing like nightingales seem to have the figures of unusually well fed cult of pigeons. Poor woman, she must weigh at least 20 stone.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nevertheless, you mustn't refer to her as poor. My dear chap. Despite her somewhat unfortunate proportions, Senora Gilda Valchese remains one of the greatest and wealthiest of contemporary sopranos.

[Dr. Watson]

Listen to the applause.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, undoubtedly she'll sing an encore. We might as well go back to her dressing room now, the opera is almost over.

[Dr. Watson]

Why are we going back to the dressing room?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because during the last intermission I received a note from her requesting my Attendance.

[Dr. Watson]

What did the note say?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, it. It seems that the lady is not too popular with certain members of the opera company. While I've no wish to become entangled in any opera clash temperaments. I confess I find myself not little interested in meeting the lady. She's going to sing an encore.

[Dr. Watson]

Are you really going back to her dressing?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Certainly, my dear fellow. A summons from Gina Valky is no more to be disobeyed than a royal command.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

I must ask you gentlemen not to stand outside La Valchesa's dressing room. We permit the north strangers, particularly foreigners.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But the signora has requested our presence. May I ask who you are?

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Permit me to introduce myself, gentlemen. I am Armando Bellini, inspector of police.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My name is Holmes, Sherlock Holmes. And this is my friend, Dr. Watson.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Sherlock Holmes. But this is a great honor. Allow me to apologize. Here in the opera house we have to be so careful, you understand? Of intrigues there are so many Doctor. Senor Holmes and his friend. I'm so happy to meet you both at headquarters. I hear wonderful reports of your work in the Cardinal Toscan fair.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I should prefer not to mention that unfortunate matter, Inspector, except under conditions of extreme privacy.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Quite so. And behind the scenes that the opera is not the most secluded place. Please do forgive me. You are waiting to see la Marchese? Yes, she is still on the stage. She has requested your presence. You say, senor?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. I trust the meeting is to be a social, not a professional one. We're sailing for England in a couple of days.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

And you came to hear the great Varches singer before you left. Most understandable.

[Dr. Watson]

A magnificent voice, Inspector.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Yes, doctor, and still. Well, I am a devout opera lover myself. Yet I cannot help but feel it's a future lies with those who can add youth and beauty to a great voice.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, that's true. True, senor. But where can can you find such a combination?

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

I have found it. Here in the opera there is a girl.

[Sherlock Holmes]

She is my protege.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Someday I hope she will be my wife. At the moment she is only understood in la vacation. If she should ever get the opportunity of singing in her place, then a new star will be born.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, really? What's her name?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Lisa Bordoni.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

She has but recently come to Rome from Milano where she was studied with the great Alfiera. Confidentially, I think that Lavarchese is so jealous of her that here is Lisa now. And that is her brother with her. Lisa Caramia. Please to join us.

[Dr. Watson]

By George, what a beautiful girl.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

What is it, Armando?

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Permit me to present the famous English detective, senior Sherlock Holmes and his friend, Dr. Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How do you do?

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do, young lady?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Glad to meet you both. This is my brother, Wally.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How do you do?

[Harry Bartel]

I certainly feel that I know a lot about you two gentlemen. You know, I can't tell you how many times I've read your stories, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Indeed, sir.

[Harry Bartel]

I'm very flattered.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Caramel. We were just the same. That in youth and beauty combined with the voice lies our future hope in the opera. Your day will come, Lisa Mia. Your day will come soon.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

I hope you're right, Armando. But as long as I understudy Gina Valchese, I don't see when I'll get my chance. She's disgustingly healthy, if you'll pardon my

[Sherlock Holmes]

saying so, young lady, though your name is Bordoni, you and your brother don't sound in the least Italian.

[Harry Bartel]

Well, we're not, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We're American.

[Harry Bartel]

But to succeed in Italian opera, my sister has found that an Italian name is essential. So the Borden family became the Bordonis.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

In any case, my real name is Lizzie Borden. I'm sure you, Mr. Holmes, as a famous detective, will see that I had to change my name.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I can well understand.

[Dr. Watson]

Who was Lizzie Borden?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, by Defino, one of the greatest and most successful of murderesses who wielded an axe with incredible dexterity. I've often regretted that I was in Tibet instead of America at the time of that particular case.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Senor Holmes, I do not understand you Anglo Saxons. To me, a murderess is a murderess. Now, when you speak of a greatness in women, I feel. But here comes Gina Valchese Now.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

I will introduce you how many times. But I tell you, I love. No one to stand outside my dressing room. Send them away. Love and Casey's attire.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

But do you wish to see Senor Sherlock Holmes? Said the famous detective. He has come here in answer to your request. Please permit me to present him and also his friend, Dr. Watts.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do, senor?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm greatly honored to meet you, Senor Casey. And now perhaps if we may come into your dressing room and confer privately.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

What would Love and Casey have to say to a detective? A mean you, not the police as b. Go away, all of you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, what do you think of that? She slammed the door in my face.

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Wait up.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Wait upon your. Bring me some more coffee, please. The very pleasant dining here on the hotel terrace, I must confess, very amazingly

[Dr. Watson]

warm, considering yesterday's snow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it is. Later I suggest we pay another visit the opera and Again about Casey. Sing Hilda and Rigoletto.

[Dr. Watson]

On my soul, Holmes, it seems to me that you're astonishingly casual after the way that woman insulted you last night. Slamming the door in your face as if you were a tradesman. Shocking.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What would you have me do, my dear chap? Force my way into her, into her room? Demand an apology? Or have my friend challenge her to a duel in order to avenge my honor?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, don't try to be funny, Holmes. You know perfectly well what I mean. The lady asks you to come and see her and when you do, she pretends she's never heard of you. And here it is nearly 24 hours later and you've done absolutely nothing about it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dear old Watson. You're really quite upset over the affair, aren't you? Well, if it'll make you any happier, let me tell you I have done something about it.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm delighted to hear it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What? This morning I was able to obtain a specimen of Ravel case's handwriting from an autographed picture in the possession of Inspector Bellini. I compared the writing with that on the note and I that I received in the box last night. It was that it was the same proving that the message I received was authentic.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, in that case, why did she snub you like that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, something was to frighten her, I suppose. Something or someone who was standing at the dressing room door with us.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, who was there respect of Bellini,

[Sherlock Holmes]

Lisa Bordoni and her brother besides me, my dear fellow. Therefore we may assume that La Valchese had no wish to recognize me and they are present.

[Dr. Watson]

But if you think that homes, why haven't you been in touch with her today? She may be in some dreadful danger.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If she is, she can find me easy enough. And meanwhile I'm perfectly happy to be left alone. The last few weeks have been sufficiently strenuous without becoming involved in some fresh case.

[Dr. Watson]

On my soul, Holmes, you must be tired. I've never known you to be so indifferent to a case. Great Scotch.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is it, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Look, walking towards us. It's Signora Valchese herself.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, and judging from the lady's expression, she seems to be in some distress. Good evening, signora.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Signora, I must speak.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please sit down, won't you? This is my colleague, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

First, I must apologize for my behavior last night. It would have been dangerous if that Velcasi had acknowledged that she had to communicate with you.

[Dr. Watson]

That's just what my friend assumed.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Madam, please speak quite freely. Now, Senora, no one can Overhear us, senor.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

I am a being persecute. My life is in a danger. You must have saved me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

They threatened.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

See, see, senor. And now today, tragedy has a struck my sister. My beloved Bella lies near death from a murderous attack. An attack that was immense for me.

[Dr. Watson]

Good Lord, what happened?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Madam, if you will please to keep a quiet and little longer case they speak will I learn what happened.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm so sorry, madam.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Morning. The morning it always myself take my dog for a walk. But this morning I feel the trace of a cold. I asked my sister to take the

[Sherlock Holmes]

dog for a walk.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Please do understand that my sister is very much like me in appearance.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I understand, signora. Please continue.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

She walk alone in the park. From Norway a horseman come gallop and ride her. Though these are much I learned from the traces in the snow. When I worry and go to find her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Was she able to tell you who the horseman was?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

No, she cannot speak, senor. They say at the hospital that her skull is a fracture. That she may not leave. Senor Holmes, that attack. It was meant for me. You must protect me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I shall do everything in my power to.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

No. No. No. What's wrong, madam? Somewhere that he's a cat. I know it. Make it go away. I cannot intend. Can't say that I be mad. No, no. I'll make it go away. Please. I can't sense it without even a thing. Shoo, shoo.

[Dr. Watson]

Run away.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Shoo, shoo.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, I can't. It must be your imagination.

[Dutch Vet Care Announcer]

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[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

I am sorry to make such a scene but I can't bear to be near again. I cannot tell you what it do to me. It may sound a foolish weakness.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, not at all, signora. Such a condition is quite common. In fact I believe medical science has given it a name. It's known as ailurophobia.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Whatever it is called, it make me ill. I must go to my room. I. I cannot stand much more. My poor sister.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I imagine with your sister at death's door. Signora, you will not sing tonight?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Senor Holmes, I love her very much. But even a sister is only a sister. My art is my life. In an hour singer I sing Gilda in a Rigoletto. You will attend the performance and afterwards you will tell a la Valchese how she may trap this devil who seek to destroy her.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, it's after 9:30. We've missed quite a lot of the opera. It's hardly worth going to our box now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just be in time to hear La Dalcasia sing the incomparable Karonomi. Come on old fellow, let's slip in as quietly as we can.

[Dr. Watson]

Seems to me we should have been in our box from the beginning of the performance. She asked you to keep an eye on her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I told you. But it occurred to me that an attack on her during the performance was unlikely. And that our time might be more profitably spent making inquiries at the writing academy. You drew a blank.

[Dr. Watson]

We found no trace of that mysterious rider.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, but at least we tried.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Here we are.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let's stand at the back of the theater for.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Scott.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That isn't our Casey singing. It's an understudy.

[Dr. Watson]

But it is protege.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The American girl. He's a bon.

[Dr. Watson]

What a beautiful word.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nice one. But with a beautiful story. Wonderful rains. Look here, we. We've no time to listen to her now. Let's go to the Valkyries dressing room at once. We know she left to the theater tonight with the intention of singing. I'm very much afraid there's devil's work afoot. Wa.

[Dr. Watson]

Why on earth doesn't she answer?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Listen, there are cats inside our dressing room. Come on, Watson. Locked. Put your shoulder to it. Come on. Help me.

[Dr. Watson]

Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come on, once more.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Come on.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Again.

[Harry Bartel]

Now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson. Here.

[Dr. Watson]

Thanks, cat.

[Sherlock Holmes]

She's unconscious. Watson, see what you can do for her. She must have fainted. The fight yes. Some fiend, knowing her deadly fear of cats has locked her in here with half a dozen of them. Shoo. Chew off me. Shoo.

[Dr. Watson]

Her eyes are opening, Holmes. She's coming too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Senora Marchese, her lips are moving.

[Dr. Watson]

She's trying to speak.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Signora Marchese, tell me who did this to you. Great heavens. Her voice is gone. I've done many vicious crimes in my lifetime, Watson, but to murder a voice, a voice that was one of the treasures of the world, is as violent killing as I've ever encountered.

[Harry Bartel]

Doctor Watson will tell you the rest of his story in just a few seconds. And right now would be a wonderful time to try a glass of Petri California port in the evening after dinner. Well, anytime you're taking things easy is the perfect time for pet report. Petri Port is a rich red wine, the kind of wine you like to sip slowly so you won't miss a drop of its truly fine flavor. I'm not kidding when I say you owe it to yourself and your family to try Petri Port. In fact, you should try Petri Port and Petri muscatel. So don't buy one, buy two. Buy both port and muscatel. Just be sure you get Patrick, because Petri wine is always good wine. Dr. Watson saw the great opera singer lost her voice when someone locked in

[Dr. Watson]

a room full of cats.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Huh?

[Harry Bartel]

What did you and Sherlock Holmes do?

[Dr. Watson]

We took Senior Valkhese back to her hotel at once and saw that she was properly taken care of.

[Harry Bartel]

How did the understudy, Lisa Bordoni make out, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

The tragedy that overtook Valkhese gave her her great chance. She received a tremendous ovation at the close of the performance and it seemed certain that another star had been born. But let me tell you the story just as it happened, Mr. Bartel. A little later that night, Holmes and I were once again standing on the balcony of our hotel watching a crowd of people that had assembled in the court.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You see that crowd, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes. I suppose they've come here to acclaim the news star.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, no, my dear fellow. Their crowd isn't planning a celebration. Look at them. Listen to their angry murmuring. I'm afraid there's going to be trouble. I don't like the look of it. Hello.

[Dr. Watson]

Here comes Lisa Bordoni's brother. Wally.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's wrong, sir?

[Harry Bartel]

Mr. Holmes. Mr. Holmes, you've got to do something.

[Dr. Watson]

What's happened?

[Harry Bartel]

Well, somehow the story about the cats in La Valchese's dressing room has spread. The crowd outside are saying that my sister Lisa planned the Whole thing so that she could sing Valkhese's part in the opera trail.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Where's your sister now?

[Harry Bartel]

In a room at the hotel here. I managed to get her away from the crowd and I locked her in.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But that mob. I'm frightened. Here comes the official representative of law and order, Ms. Beckham. Bellini.

[Harry Bartel]

Wally.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Wally, where is Lisa?

[Harry Bartel]

I was just telling Mr. Holmes that

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'd locked her in her room and that crowd's in a dangerous mood. Bellini. What precautions are you taking?

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

I have a thrown a cord on the police around the hotel. The mob is getting out of her hand and Lisa must be protected. As a matter of fact the situation is even worse than the crowd knows. I have just been told that La Barques's twin sister Bella died in the hospital tonight. That adds a murder church. If the crowd knew about that, I tremble to think what might happen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you say that Largo Crazy's sister was a twin, Inspector?

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Si, Senor Holmes. She was a hor exact double in everything but voice.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed, how very illuminating. If you don't mind, I should like to have a few words in private with my friend Dr. Watson. Excuse us for a moment, please.

[Dr. Watson]

What do you make of it, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What are you, old chap?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, the American girl seemed really charming and all that but she might have done it. It had to be either her, her brother or the Inspector himself. They all had a motive for wanting La Valchese to lose her voice. But I must say I can't understand the motive behind the murder of her twin sister.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think I can give you the answer to that question in a very few minutes. But meanwhile the mob gets uglier and uglier. The only way to avert violence, Watson, is to give them quick proof and a certainty of conviction. I'm just going back to Bellini and the young American. I want to keep an eye on them. Meanwhile I want you to slip out and get me a cat.

[Dr. Watson]

Cat?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

What a fool.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You'll find out soon enough, Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

What kind of a cat?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, any kind, but hurry.

[Dr. Watson]

Come on kitty, kitty. Come on, kitty. There's a good kitty.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here, here. What you doing? A hotel kitchen, senor. Oh, you want to play with my cat.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, is he your cat? Charming little fellow. I'd like to borrow him for a little while.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why you want to bother my cat?

[Dr. Watson]

I thought I'd take him up to my hotel room and have a little game with him. I've got some old socks he play with.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Deal. The English, they are a crazy race. My cat does not like to play with the old socks. Look here.

[Dr. Watson]

Here's 50L for you.

[Harry Bartel]

Oh, no, no, no.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I tell you, my cat does not like to play with old socks. My cat will stay here and you can keep it. Your money.

[Dr. Watson]

I give you 100L.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So did you may stuff my cat full of old socks. No, no. Give me back my cat.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, the place is with you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You'll get it back. Stop him. Stop him. The crazy Englishman. He's ste.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I got a cat for you, Holmes. But I wish you'd tell me what we're doing outside Val Case's door with it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm going to try and experiment. We open her bedroom door softly. So slip the cat in so. And close the door.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, man, what the blazes do you think you're doing? You'll drive her mad.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think not. Listen and watch through the keyhole if you can.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Where do you come from, you spooky cat? Go away.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, her voice, it's come back.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I thought it might.

[Dr. Watson]

I can see her through the keyhole. She's picking the cat up by the scruff of its neck. She's walking toward the balcony.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, and towards the crowds down below. An excellent opportunity for a public confession. Come on.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

What do you want?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I charge you with the murder of your sister, the great singer Valkhese.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

It was a magnificence in your homes. Magnificent the way you force her to confess on the balcony in a full sight of the mouth.

[Harry Bartel]

And so you saved Lisa. I can't thank you enough, Mr. Holmes.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

Nor can I. Though I still don't see how you guessed. She looked so much like her sister that she fooled even me. Her understanding?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it was an extremely cunning plot. Ms. Bordonius, the real Valchese, sent me that note last night when I met her at the dressing room door she denied having sent for me. Because the three of you were there,

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

I suppose she suspect of one of us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh yes, obviously. And later, no doubt she told her twin sister Bella about having sent me the message and also announced her intention of coming to see me. Bella saw her opportunity murdered. La Valchese assumed her identity and to give added realism to her role, followed through with her sister's plan by coming to see me today.

[Harry Bartel]

But I still don't understand this business, Mr. Holmes. Why did the twin sister lock herself in her dressing room and fill it with cats? What did it accomplish?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

It gave me the chance to sing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, that's true. Which is why Watson felt certain the criminal must be you, your brother or Signor Bellini. But you see, the episode with the cats accomplished one other thing. It made it plausible that the great Valchese should never sing again.

[Dr. Watson]

To whose advantage would that be?

[Sherlock Holmes]

An imposter, of course.

[Dr. Watson]

In the person of a twin sister who could not sing and who must surely envy her sister's great.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exactly, my dear fellow. As soon as I knew they were twin sisters in everything but voice, it became more than a possibility, it became probability.

[Dr. Watson]

But it had to be tested.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's why I sent for the cat, Watson. When the sister, thinking herself unobserved, exhibited no terror for cats, well, it became a certainty.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, my soul, Holmes. This is as fantastic a plot as ever we've met.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A diabolical plan, Watson. And I'm only thankful, Ms. Bordonny, that we were able to expose it before the crowd reached you tonight.

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

I don't know what I can ever do to repay you, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, that won't be hard, my dear. A box of Cotton Garden for your London debut would be, well, an ample repayment. And from what I hear of your reception in Rigoletto tonight, I shan't have to wait very long for that reward, eh?

[Signora Gina Valchese / Lisa Bordoni]

It's a promise, Mr. Holmes.

[Inspector Armando Bellini]

Come in.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Excuse me, please. All over the hotel are looking for my cat. I say to myself, there he is, he's still my cat. Inspector Molina, you arrest him? He tried to bribe me and then he ran away with my cat and fill him full of old English socks. Oh, does she really, Doctor?

[Harry Bartel]

I'd sure like to have a picture of you running away with that fellow's

[Dr. Watson]

cat under your eye.

[Harry Bartel]

You, a cat stealer.

[Dr. Watson]

It's not a bit funny, Mr. Barto. Believe me, it was most embarrassing.

[Harry Bartel]

I know, but it was all for a good cause and I think you were splendid about the whole thing. Incidentally, how'd you happen to look for a cat in a hotel kitchen?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, there's usually one around the back door of a kitchen. Haven't you ever wandered, well, backstage in a hotel? Fascinating.

[Harry Bartel]

Of course I have, but I've never been in a hotel kitchen.

[Dr. Watson]

Then where were you?

[Harry Bartel]

In the wine cellar.

[Dr. Watson]

I should have known.

[Harry Bartel]

Yes, Doctor, I like to look at bottles of Petri wine because when I see a Petri wine, I know I'm looking at a good wine. And Petri wine is good because of the Petri family. The Petri family first started making fine wine before the beginning of this century, generations ago. Since then, winemaking has been their heritage, handed on down from father to son. So you can take it for granted that the Petri family really knows how to turn luscious sun ripened grapes into clear, fragrant, delicious wine. And you can take it for granted too, that the name Petri on a bottle of wine is more than a trademark. Is the personal assurance of the Petri family that every drop of wine in that bottle is good wine. You just can't go wrong with Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine. Well, Dr. Watson, what story are you planning to tell us next week?

[Dr. Watson]

Next week, Mr. Bartel, I'm going to tell you a strange adventure that Holmes and I had many, many years ago. It concerns a young girl, the mutilation of her doll, and the tragedy that overtook a certain wise woman from the moun.

[Harry Bartel]

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, the Adventure of Black Peter. Music is by Dean Fossler. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn mayer. And tonight, Dr. Watson was played by Mr. Eric Snowden, who substituted for Mr. Nigel Bruce. Mr. Bruce is scheduled to return to the program next week. The Petri Wine Company of San Francisco, California invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petri family

[Sherlock Holmes]

for a solid

[Harry Bartel]

hour of exciting mystery dramas. Listen every Monday on most of these Same stations at 8 o' clock to Michael Shane, followed immediately by Sherlock Holmes. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

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