Sherlock Holmes: Murder Under the Big Top (Rathbone & Bruce)

Summary

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Episode Overview

Episode Title: Sherlock Holmes: Murder Under the Big Top
Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Date: October 24, 2025
Summary:
In this classic radio episode, Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce return as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Set in Paris at the famed Cirque Royale, Holmes, Watson, and a royal “client” become entangled in a deadly web of jealousy, love affairs, and murder among circus performers. What begins as a covert mission to protect an incognito prince from scandal soon leads to the murder of a celebrated bareback rider—and Watson himself arrested for the crime. Holmes must untangle a host of motives and alibis to reveal a most unexpected killer, in a story filled with color, wit, and suspense reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio Drama.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Holmes and Watson Visit the Paris Circus

• Holmes and Watson are enjoying what seems to be a night off at the Cirque Royale in Paris during the 1890s—though Holmes, as always, has an ulterior motive.
• Dr. Watson: “The circus. A colorful world of sawdust and spangles... always held an irresistible fascination for me when I was a youngster.” (03:13)
• The audience is introduced to Giselle Gironde, “the most celebrated bareback rider in France,” known for her beauty and as a femme fatale who has inspired both passion and disaster in her admirers.
• Holmes’s “distinguished client” Mr. Edwards (an alias for a prince) joins them, revealing this is not just a pleasure outing but a mission to prevent scandal.

2. Undercover Intrigue: Protecting the Prince

• Holmes explains his mission: to protect the prince from entanglement with Giselle, who may or may not know his true identity.
• Holmes enlists Watson to court Giselle under a false title (“Sir William Nigel”) to determine her intentions:
  • Holmes: “By tempting her with a richer Englishman and one with a title. That, my dear fellow, is why you are Sir William Nigel.” (07:51)
• Backstage, the world of the circus comes alive with eccentric characters—tightrope walkers, animal trainers, jealous lovers, and police inspectors.

3. Jealousy, Rivalries, and a Brewing Storm

• Watson meets Giselle and begins his comedic (and costly) masquerade as her suitor, buying pearls and wooing her with champagne.
• Tensions flare between Watson and Alfio Alfieri, the jealous animal trainer, culminating in a physical altercation.
  • Giselle (to Watson, after he punches Alfieri): “And you in turn deserve something, Willie... a little kiss.” (12:47)
• All the while, the intrigue among circus performers—including the jealous tightrope walker Yvette Marat—creates a simmering cauldron of suspicion.

4. The Murder and Immediate Investigation

• The drama escalates when Giselle is found strangled in her dressing room. Only Watson and the prince (Mr. Edwards) had entered after the police inspector last saw her alive, pointing strong suspicion toward one of them.
• Inspector Vernet: “Only two men have entered Giselle’s dressing room since then. You, Monsieur Edwards, and you, Sir William Nigel.” (18:01)
• Both are arrested for murder.

5. The Case Unravels: Holmes On the Trail

• Holmes questions Inspector Vernet’s deductions and examines the evidence:
  • Notable: The murder weapon is a fine cord with no marks of violence, and a window is open with no footprints in the snow nearby.
• Holmes considers suspects and alibis:
  • Yvette Marat, the jealous tightrope walker, has a solid alibi.
  • Alfio Alfieri, the animal trainer, becomes a key suspect due to his skill with the whip.
• Holmes (theorizing): “It’s conceivable she could enter a room by a window without leaving footprints in the snow... Where was she at the time of the murder?” (20:53)

6. Climax: The Reconstruction and Revelation

• Holmes orchestrates a reconstruction with Alfieri and Inspector Vernet:
  • He deduces Alfieri killed Giselle by standing outside the window and lassoing her neck with his whip, leaving no footprints at the scene.
  • A whipstock is found missing its lash—matching the cord used in the murder.
• Sherlock Holmes: “He [Alfieri] stood outside the window far enough away to leave no incriminating footprints, called to Giselle... then snapped the whip around her neck, pulling it tight and strangling her.” (25:07)

7. Aftermath and Character Moments

• The prince is cleared and grateful, Watson is sheepish but relieved, and Holmes credits Watson’s “whip-like rapidity” as inspiration for the final clue.
  • Holmes: “That, of course, made me think of Alfieri, the animal trainer.” (24:45)
• Watson jokes that the incident has cured him of his lifelong affection for the circus.
  • Dr. Watson: “In fact, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if this whole incident cures me of my love of circuses.” (25:38)

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• Holmes, on Watson’s task: “Your job, old fellow, is to do your utmost to steal Giselle Gironde from Mr. Edwards.” (08:01)
• Giselle (to Watson): “I shall call you... Willie. You do not mind?” (11:10)
• Inspector Vernet, on Watson’s arrest: “I am stating that these two gentlemen are under arrest for suspicion of murder.” (18:08)
• Holmes, epiphany moment: “No, my dear fellow, which will never sacrifice you. Not while my mind is still capable of my mind. That’s it. Thank you Watson. You’ve given me the answer.” (22:57)

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Timestamps of Key Segments

• 03:13: Dr. Watson’s nostalgic fascination with the circus
• 04:42: Introduction to Giselle Gironde—the femme fatale
• 07:51: Holmes recruits Watson to go undercover as Giselle’s suitor
• 12:47: Watson punches Alfieri and gets a kiss from Giselle
• 18:08: Watson and the prince arrested on suspicion of murder
• 20:53: Holmes discusses the possibility of the killer entering by the window
• 24:45: Holmes reveals the whip clue, inspired by Watson
• 25:38: Watson’s humorous aversion to circuses after the ordeal

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Tone and Flavor

The episode is rich in period atmosphere, humor, and character banter. Watson’s comedic discomfort and earnestness, Holmes’s razor-sharp deductions, and the lively circus backdrop all contribute to radiant, old-world radio drama. The clever plot, colorful supporting cast, and thrilling “locked room” puzzle are quintessential Sherlock Holmes, ending with gratitude, wit, and a callback to Watson’s romantic boyhood dreams.

Transcript

[Announcer]

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.

[Narrator]

Rathbone and Nigel Bruce and the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine. Invite you to listen to Dr. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. You know, the lives of Holmes and Watson were not always filled with action. They spent many a quiet evening at home in Baker street discussing the problems of the world over a glass of port. You know, it seems that no wine is more expressive of friendship and hospitality than. Than port. And I'm sure there's no port wine more enjoyable than Petri California port. Try a good glass of Petri port after dinner some evening or anytime you get together with your friends. You'll love the rich, ruby red color of that Petri port. You'll love its smoothness and full body. Its remarkable and wonderful flavor. A flavor that comes straight from the heart of luscious handpicked grapes. Serve that Petri port alone or serve it together with cake or cookies or with fruit. Yes, and serve it proudly. You can. Because the name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wines. And now I'm sure our old friend Dr. Watson's expecting us. Let's tap on his study door.

[Dr. Watson]

Come in, come in, come in.

[Narrator]

Good evening, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Good evening, Mr. Barco. Come over here by the fire. I was just having a cup of coffee. Would you care to join me?

[Narrator]

Thanks, that'd be nice.

[Dr. Watson]

It'll prevent you falling asleep during my story tonight.

[Narrator]

There's no chance of that, Doctor. From the hints you gave us last week, it sounded like quite a story. It began in a circus in Paris.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

You told us.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, my boy, the circus. A colorful world of sawdust and spangles. A world, Mr. Bartel, that I may tell you confidentially, always held an irresistible fascination for me when I was a youngster.

[Narrator]

Me too, doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

In fact, when I was eight years old, I fell desperately in love with a lady bareback rider. A stunning creature who wore pink silk tights with gold sequins on them. Unfortunately, my mother caught me writing her proposal of marriage. And I'm afraid that. Well, another story. And one that you probably wouldn't find very interesting.

[Narrator]

I'm sure I would, Doctor, but I think it would be safer to stick to your Sherlock Holmes story.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, you're probably right, my boy. Well, it was a winter in the 1890s and Holmes and I were in Paris. On our second day there, Holmes suggested we attend that night's performance, the Cirque Royale. Needless to remark, I was delighted, Mr. Bartel. And shortly after 9:00 clock that night I found myself seated besides Holmes in a box near the ringside. It was an incredibly vivid scene, even for that city of color and light. The gay costumes of the women and the gaudy trappings of the ringmasters and clowns looked like a giant kaleidoscope under the blazing glare of the arc lamps. As we sat there, a brass band nearby blared forth some popular music of the day. And yet he didn't appear to be enjoying himself. And so I leaned across. He touched his arm.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is it, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

You're very quiet, homes. Aren't you having a good time?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A good time? Oh, I suppose, old chap. I was just wondering where Mr. Edwards is.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Edwards? Who's he?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Extremely distinguished client who was to meet us in this box at 9 o'.

[Dr. Watson]

Clock. Client? This little excursion was on business after all. Years I might have known it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nobody, old fellow. In your case I think you'll be able to combine quite a little pleasure with the business.

[Dr. Watson]

Can't you be a little more explicit, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here comes the ringmaster.

[Dr. Watson]

Mademoiselle Giselle Gironde, Equestrienne un comparage. Giselle Gironde? Yes, I've heard of her. She's a bareback rider in France. Old fellow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

She also has quite a reputation as a femme fatale. Three jewels have been fought over her. A young English officer in the Grenadier Guards committed suicide last year because of her. And a famous French banker is at present languishing in prison because her extravagances drove him to appropriate funds that did not belong to him. Yes, Watson, she has an extremely colorful personality.

[Dr. Watson]

You know, Holmes, the funny thing. When I was 8 years old I fell violently in love with a lady bareback rider. She wore pixel tights with golden sequins on them, but unfortunately.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, she is.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, she's excellent. Look at the way she's jumping from the back of one horse to the other. Sheer poetry of motion. The lady appeals to Watson, by George, yes, indeed. She's in fact, Holmes, I don't mind telling you, if I weren't a married man. And you'd like to court the lady, eh? Yes, I should.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Excellent. That's the very reason for our attendance.

[Dr. Watson]

At sir, what in heaven's name are you talking about? Holmes. Ah, there you are.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening Mr. Edwards.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Holmes my dear fellow, how are you? I haven't seen you since. Since that little affair at Windsor Castle when mother.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Excuse me Sir. I am Mr. Mycroft and this is my friend Sir William Nigel.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

William Knight of course, of course. And I am Mr. Edwards. We must respect each other's incognitoes, eh? How do you do Sir William?

[Dr. Watson]

Well I'm extremely honored to meet you, your royal Mr. Edwards.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

How'd you like Giselle? Isn't she a stunning creature?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, indeed she is sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The four of us to have supper together after the performance tonight. I understand Mr. Edwards.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Well unfortunately I can't be there Mycroft. There's some stupid affair at the embassy which I have to attend. We must postpone the dinner until tomorrow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very well sir.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Come over to my hotel a little early and we can discuss the whole business. Personally, I think a lot of fuss is being made about nothing. Now if you'll excuse me gentlemen, I must go back and see Giselle for a moment and tell her that I can't keep our appointment for tonight. I'll see you tomorrow Mycroft. Good night, Sir William.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good night. Good night.

[Dr. Watson]

Good night, sir. Holmes, what's all this mystery? That wasn't Mr. Edwards. It was the Prince of Watson, please.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Discretion old fellow. Mr. Edwards, as you know, is extremely democratic. Too much so possibly when one considers his position and responsibilities. He's become quite seriously involved with Mademoiselle Giselle, the lady bareback rider who has just left the ring.

[Dr. Watson]

Ah, so that's it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The Foreign Office, quite naturally I suppose, is deeply concerned over the matter and I've been entrusted with the delicate mission of protecting Mr. Edwards.

[Dr. Watson]

Does Geronde know that he's too identified, you suppose?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's the first thing that we have to find out. It's possible that she is simply captivated by having a rich Englishman at her feet. If on other hand she knows who Mr. Edwards is, then we may be in for a great deal of trouble.

[Dr. Watson]

But how are you going to find that out?

[Sherlock Holmes]

By tempting her with a richer Englishman and one with a title. That, my dear fellow, is why you are Sir William Nigel.

[Dr. Watson]

You mean that your job, old fellow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Is to do it your utmost to steal Giselle Gironde from Mr. Edwards?

[Dr. Watson]

But, well I, I don't even know the girl.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We shall remedy that defect in a few minutes. As soon as the performance is over, my dear chap, I shall take you to her dressing room and arrange an introduction.

[Dr. Watson]

I must say Holmes, the backstage life at a circus Is even more colorful than in the ring.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What makes you say that, old fellow?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I just saw a pinhead having tea with a bearded lady while a sword swallower was standing behind him practicing his act. Oh, hello.

[Sherlock Holmes]

See that man standing, talking to the girl in tights?

[Dr. Watson]

Yeah. Attractive, isn't he?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The gentleman is Inspector Vernet of the French police, an old friend and a distant relative of mine.

[Dr. Watson]

How are you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please? On this occasion, my name is Mycroft, if you don't mind. And this is my friend, Sir William Nigel.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do?

[Inspector Vernet]

Inspector William, permit me to introduce Mademoiselle Yvette Mara.

[Yvette Marat]

How are you doing?

[Inspector Vernet]

What brings you behind the scenes at the circus, may I ask?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Monsieur Mycroft, my friend Sir William is most anxious to meet the acquaintance of Mademoiselle Gironde.

[Yvette Marat]

But of course, of course. Every man wishes to meet Giselle Gerande. Why not ask Bearnay? He will present you to her. Ha. In other way.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, now, I bet she really.

[Inspector Vernet]

Do not begin that all over again.

[Yvette Marat]

You are in love with her. You have always been in love with her.

[Giselle Gironde]

I wish she were dead. Sometimes I.

[Yvette Marat]

Sometimes I think I could kill her myself.

[Dr. Watson]

Upon my soul, Inspector. She's a fiery little thing, isn't she?

[Inspector Vernet]

Ah, sa sebrisa. So, William, many times I've told her that Giselle Gironde would never waste her time with a simple police inspector. She prefers a wealthy foreigner. But, Yvette, une comprempa. She does not understand. And she does not believe Mademoiselle Marat.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Was dressed in tights. Vermeil. And what does she do in the circus?

[Inspector Vernet]

She walks the tightrope. She is a queen of the high wire. A charming and a talented girl. But a most, most, most jealous one.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Vernet. My distinguished friend, Sir William Nigel is most anxious to meet Giselle Girondet. Will you introduce him? I should prefer not to appear in the matter at this stage.

[Inspector Vernet]

Oh, Ms. Shelton, I will take you to her dressing room. Please come with me, Sir William.

[Dr. Watson]

Right. I'll see you later. Home.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll be waiting for you, old chap. Good luck.

[Inspector Vernet]

Hey. You're a lucky man, Sir William. Giselle has quite a penchant for the Englishman. And when they are rich and have a title, I am sure she finds them irresistible.

[Dr. Watson]

You really think so?

[Inspector Vernet]

Oh, but of course. I tell the mage that I am only a poor policeman. Here we are. Giselle. Monsieur, permit me to present to you Sir William Nigel. He is a great admirer of yours.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, indeed, madam.

[Giselle Gironde]

Ah, Sir William Nigel. Come and sit here beside me.

[Inspector Vernet]

Sir William, I shall leave you.

[Narrator]

Au revoir.

[Giselle Gironde]

Sit closer.

[Announcer]

There.

[Giselle Gironde]

That is much more cosy.

[Announcer]

No?

[Dr. Watson]

It's very nice of you to see me, Mademoiselle Giralde.

[Giselle Gironde]

Oh, don't be so formal, my Englishman. You may call me Giselle. And I shall call you. Let me see. I shall call you Sir William Willie. I shall call you Willie. You do not mind?

[Dr. Watson]

Delightful. Quite delightful. My dear. I was hoping perhaps that you can have a little supper with me tonight, Giselle. So what about some oysters, a cold pheasant and a bottle or two of Pommery and Green or 72? You get to taste rather well, don't you think?

[Giselle Gironde]

Oh, Willie, I can see you are a perfect horse.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I don't know about that.

[Giselle Gironde]

One moment, I get my cloak.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, you know, it's a funny thing.

[Giselle Gironde]

What? It's a funny thing, Willie.

[Dr. Watson]

When I was 8 years old I fell violently in love with a lady bareback rider at a circus. History seems to be repeating itself here.

[Giselle Gironde]

Alfio Alfieri. Do you no longer knock when you come to my door?

[Alfio Alfieri]

Who is this man?

[Dr. Watson]

My name is Nigel, Sir William Nigel, my good man. And who may you be?

[Alfio Alfieri]

I am Alfio Alfieri.

[Giselle Gironde]

I am Alfio Alf. And what is he? A trainer of wild animals. An ambushir.

[Alfio Alfieri]

You must not speak to all of.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You on that way.

[Alfio Alfieri]

You belong to me. Send this stupid Englishman away.

[Dr. Watson]

Find it impudent.

[Giselle Gironde]

Belong to you, Giselle? Belong to no one.

[Alfio Alfieri]

No, I have to take my whip.

[Dr. Watson]

That way. Put it down. You scoundrel.

[Alfio Alfieri]

That's the time it will be. Your face, you infernal blackout.

[Dr. Watson]

Raising your hand against a woman.

[Giselle Gironde]

Shocking, mon. Willie has knocked him down.

[Dr. Watson]

He certainly deserved it.

[Giselle Gironde]

And you in turn deserve something, Willie.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, what was that?

[Giselle Gironde]

Come close, Willie, and I give it to you. A little kiss.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh yes, thanks awfully.

[Giselle Gironde]

Oh really, you're so strong, so rescue. Not so brave.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, it was nothing, my dear Giselle. Nothing at all. Here, more champagne. Go. More champagne.

[Announcer]

Oh, really.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Giselle.

[Giselle Gironde]

Me M. Edwards.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

I have a box for the opera tomorrow night. I was hoping that perhaps.

[Giselle Gironde]

I'm sorry, monsieur, but my time is occupied. I am showing the delights of Montmartre to he says, which do I prefer? The five string color pearls or the three string color pearls? What does my Willie think?

[Dr. Watson]

So that you can't hang too many pearls on a pretty neck like yours. I'll take the five string collar, my good fellow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You're doing splendidly, Watson, splendidly.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, but Holmes, I felt such a blasted fool handing that jeweller fellow a Check signed by Sir William Nigel. You quite sure that it'll be honored?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't worry old fellow, remember who our client is. Money is the least important concern in this matter. On with the masquerade old fellow. On with the masquerade.

[Dr. Watson]

More champagne. Got on.

[Giselle Gironde]

Willie, you are such a headstrong boy.

[Dr. Watson]

More champagne. C You thing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening Vernet. As Mironde come into the evening performance here?

[Inspector Vernet]

Yes, Ms. Jones. I escorted her to her dressing room half an hour ago. Monsieur Edwards is in there with her now. At last it seems she has use for a poor policeman. Last night she found a threatening letter on her makeup table. Since then she has been most grateful for my company.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A threatening letter, eh? Any idea who might have sent it?

[Inspector Vernet]

Oh yes, of course. I'm afraid I have, Mr. Holmes. I told her to pay no attention. By the perfume of the notepaper I recognize the sender. A jealous tightrope walker called Yvette Marat. Oh, poor Yvette. She would make a very inferior criminal, I'm afraid. Still, Giselle asked me to stay outside her dressing room till the performance starts. You wish to see her?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. Oh, good evening Mr. Edward.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Evening Mycroft.

[Inspector Vernet]

Evening Inspector Verner M. Edwards.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Look here Mycroft, I think this little game's gone far enough. Giselle has just refused another invitation of mine. Now I know who Sir William Nigel is and I swear I'll tell her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't you think sir, that the lady is hardly worth bothering about? Surely this whole incident with Sir William proves that she's a scheming little adventures. A fictitious title and an apparently bottomless purse have shown her up in her true colors.

[Inspector Vernet]

I could have told you the same thing without such an experiment, my friend.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Well, I suppose you're right, Mycroft. I've been a fool. An idiot who lets a pretty ankle turn his head. A conceited dope.

[Inspector Vernet]

Let us just say, monsieur, that you have been a man.

[Dr. Watson]

Good evening, sir.

[Alfio Alfieri]

Good evening. Good evening.

[Dr. Watson]

I just came back to see Giselle for a moment. I brought us these flowers for her. Oh, I'll be back in a gym.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just a minute, Watson. I. I hate to dampen your ardor, old chap, but the masquerade is ended.

[Dr. Watson]

Ended? What do you mean?

[Inspector Vernet]

It's.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

It is no longer necessary for you to impersonate Sir William Nigel or to pay court to Giselle.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh really? Oh, oh really, really. Well that's a great relief, sir, great relief. I've hated the whole business.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh yes, yes, I'm sure you have. We appreciate the sacrifices that you've Made. Don't be Sir Edward.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Yes, yes indeed.

[Dr. Watson]

Well I must go back and see her once more though. We had a rendezvous for tonight and I must cancel it. A gentlemanly thing to do, you know. I won't be a minute.

[Inspector Vernet]

Never have I seen a man more downcast. Obviously with him, my dear Holmes, business was a pleasure.

[Dr. Watson]

Alfieri, where are you going?

[Alfio Alfieri]

That Englishman, I just saw him go into Giselle's room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

To whom are you referring?

[Alfio Alfieri]

That man that call himself Sir William Nigel. Two days ago he Strike me I have to settle with him. No man may strike Alfieri.

[Inspector Vernet]

Do not cause any more trouble. Alfieri. From what I've been told you thoroughly deserved. What happened to you?

[Alfio Alfieri]

Here he come now. You English. You Alfieri, challenge you to a duel.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes. Holmes.

[Alfio Alfieri]

What?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No chap? What is it? You're as white as a ghost.

[Dr. Watson]

It's, it's Giselle.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's wrong with her?

[Dr. Watson]

She's dead. She's lying there in her dressing room, strangled. Strangled?

[Inspector Vernet]

And only half an hour ago I spoke with her myself. Since then I've been standing in this corridor guarding her door. At your own request. Only two men have entered Giselle's dressing room since then. You, Monsieur Edwards and you Sir William Nigel.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What are you suggesting Vergenet?

[Inspector Vernet]

I am suggesting nothing. I am stating that these two gentlemen are under arrest for suspicion of murder.

[Narrator]

Dr. Watson's unusual story will continue in just a few seconds. Time I'd like to take to remind you that one wine that seems to be the outstanding favorite among the ladies is Petri California Muscatel. That's probably because like a beautiful woman Petri Muscatel is subtle and intriguing. Petri Muscatel is the color of burnished gold. And its flavor, well it's the flavor of big plump muscat grapes picked by hand, carefully and tenderly. And they're just full of wonderful delicious juice. If you want to show that you really know the wine that women prefer, serve Petri Muscatel. Serve it after dinner or later in the evening. It's wonderful. And why shouldn't it be? It's a petri wine. Well Dr. Watson. So you and the mysterious Mr. Edwards got yourselves arrested on suspicion of murder?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes Mr. Bartel. Holmes did everything in his power to persuade Inspector Verney to release us but it was useless. And so while Mr. Edwards and myself were languishing in detention cells, local Suret Holmes and the French inspector were examining the dressing room of the dead woman.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm sure Inspector Vermeil, that being as keen a detective as you are you must suspect the true identity of Mr. Edwards.

[Inspector Vernet]

Of course, mon cher Holmes. But that is the danger of incognitos. If he chooses to assume the identity of play Monsieur Edwards, then he must run the risks of play, monsieur.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you are convinced that either he or my friend strangled Mademoiselle Girondet?

[Inspector Vernet]

It is obvious.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then I'll have to prove to you that they didn't. Let me examine the body again, will you? If she had been strangled by either of my friends, why would her body be lying here under the window? It's as far away from the door by which they left this room as possible.

[Inspector Vernet]

That proves nothing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, but it's odd.

[Inspector Vernet]

Giselle was a strong girl. There might easily have been a struggle. Perhaps she tried to get away through.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The window and yet there are no marks of violence on her throat. Just this piece of very fine cord that did its deadly work so cheaply cut with a knife.

[Inspector Vernet]

Please do not remove the cord, Monsieur Holmes. The body has not yet been photographed.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dear me, Vernet, you are making it very hard for me, aren't you? You notice of course, that the window is open.

[Inspector Vernet]

Yes, but we have examined the snow outside. There were no footprints within 3 yards of the window. The murderer must have entered by the door that I was watching.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it would be hard even for a professional acrobat to jump in. An acrobat? Verne, Your young friend, Mademoiselle Yvette Marat is a tightrope walker.

[Inspector Vernet]

Yvette?

[Sherlock Holmes]

But yes, she certainly had a motive. She'd even sent a threatening letter. I heard her express hatred and jealousy for this dead woman. It's conceivable that she could enter a room by a window without leaving footprints in the snow. Where was she at the time of the murder?

[Inspector Vernet]

I do not know. I was waiting for her in the corridor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I suggest that we investigate her alibi at once. And after that, Inspector, I must pay a visit to the Surete. I don't want my friends to think that I've deserted them. Excuse me, sir.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Yes, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid it looks rather black. As I was telling you, Yvette Maria the tightrope walker was able to establish completely satisfactory alibi. Verne still suspects you or Dr. Watson.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Well, that's ridiculous.

[Sherlock Holmes]

May I ask you a very straightforward question, sir?

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can well understand that if you had gone into the dressing room and found the woman already murdered, you might easily be tempted to conceal the fact that to avoid a scandal involving your person. Will you swear to me, sir, on your true identity that Giselle was alive when you left her?

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

She was, Holmes, I swear it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you, sir, that's all I wanted to know.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, I'm glad to see you. You know I've been thinking. All this depends on Verne's evidence. But supposing he was the murderer? He told us that Giselle had turned him down.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You know I thought of that. But Mr. Edwards swears that Giselle was alive when he left the room and yet that means that Mr. Edward. Oh no, no, no, no, it's unthinkable.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, you're not suggesting. Holmes, if I thought that that were possible I'd confess to the murder myself. My life wouldn't matter if it'd save a scandal like that. Great Scott, it'd shatter the empire.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dear old Watson, you shall not sacrifice yourself. You're as valuable a British institution as the lion himself. No, my dear fellow, which will never sacrifice you. Not while my mind is still capable of my mind. That's it. Thank you Watson. You've given me the answer.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, what are you burbling on?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Be patient, Dr. Low. In half an hour you'll be out of this cell and the real murderer.

[Dr. Watson]

Will be in Questions. Questions.

[Alfio Alfieri]

Why must Alifieri answer so many questions?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because he will not yet tell the truth. You murdered Giselle Gironde.

[Alfio Alfieri]

How many times I have to tell you. I did not kill her. Why should I want to harm her?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because you were jealous. Because she humiliated and tormented you.

[Alfio Alfieri]

But I was not in her dressing room. I've already proved that fact.

[Dr. Watson]

Am I a magician that I can.

[Alfio Alfieri]

Kill somebody without entering a room?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Algieri, I know how you killed Giselle Girondet without its necessitating your entering this room.

[Alfio Alfieri]

You are a smart man. Please to tell me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't need to tell you. With the aid of Vernet I'll show you. Open the window, Alfieri.

[Dr. Watson]

What game is this?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very well then, I'll open the window myself. Put your head out. Come on. So who do you see? Inspector Vernet standing three yards away where you stood. And he's got your long training whip.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, don't move, stand there.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The inspector hasn't your skill with a whip but he wants to try a little experiment.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm holding. Well, Mr. Edwards, I mean well sir. This is a pleasant change from a prison cell, isn't it?

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

It certainly is. Holmes, I can't tell you how grateful I am. I still don't quite understand how you did it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, in rather a roundabout way was responsible for giving me the clue.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, how was that Holme?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, on more than one occasion, old chap, I've had cause to deploy a rather florid style of writing. Tonight I was very thankful for it. When I began to speak of the capabilities of my mind suddenly I remembered a phrase of yours in which you referred to its whip like rapidity and accuracy. That of course made me think of Alfieri, the animal trainer.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Exactly how did he kill the poor girl?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, sir, he stood outside the window far enough away to leave no incriminating footprints. Called to Giselle, probably persuaded her to lean out, then snapped the whip around her neck, pulling it tight and strangling her.

[Dr. Watson]

Then I suppose he cut the cord and let the body fall back into the room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Precisely, old fellow. We found a whipstock among his tackle. A whipstock from which the lash had been cut. The stub of lash left matched the cord around the dead girl's throat.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Amazing business. And I don't mind telling you fellows I'm very thankful to be through with it.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, am I, sir. In fact, I wouldn't be at all surprised if this whole incident cures me of my love of circuses.

[Mr. Edwards (Prince)]

Oh, I didn't know you had a predilection in that direction, Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh yes, sir. Yes. If you don't mind my saying so, when he was 8 years old he fell in love with a lady bareback rider. Didn't you once? Indeed.

[Dr. Watson]

What happened? Well, sir, I don't remember her name but she wore pink silk tights with golden sequins on them and I wrote her a rather hot headed letter. Unfortunately, my mother.

[Narrator]

Well doctor, that was one of the most unusual stories you've ever told. And, and I might say you played a very prominent part in that case yourself.

[Dr. Watson]

I suppose I did at that. Mr. Bartel, Giselle was a beautiful girl.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Beautiful boy.

[Narrator]

I sure love that nickname she gave you. Wheelie.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I felt rather nice myself. Well, that is, I, I, I mean.

[Narrator]

Don't get embarrassed over a nickname, doctor. You should hear the nickname I had when I went to school. All the girls called me Bottles.

[Dr. Watson]

Bottles? Oh. Oh, I see. From Bottle. Bottle, Bottle.

[Narrator]

Some nickname, like a prophecy.

[Dr. Watson]

What do you mean?

[Narrator]

Well, they called me Bottles and now that's what I like to talk about most.

[Giselle Gironde]

Bottles.

[Narrator]

Bottles of Petri wine.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I should have known.

[Narrator]

And I'd like to talk about Petri wine because as far as I'm concerned it's the swellest wine that ever poured from a bottle. That's because the Petrie family really knows how to make good wine. Well, they ought to. They've been making good wine ever since they started the Petri business way back in the 1800s. And since the Petrie family has always personally owned and operated their business, they've been able to keep that fine art of winemaking right in the family, handing it on down from father to.