Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton (Hobbs & Shelley)

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio Episode Summary: Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton (Hobbs & Shelley) Release Date: December 27, 2024

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton, featuring the talented voices of Carlton Hobbs as Sherlock Holmes and [Actor Name] as Dr. John Watson. Scripted by Michael Hardwick, this adaptation delves into one of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most intriguing stories, showcasing the unparalleled detective work of Holmes and the loyal companionship of Watson.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens on a chilly evening at 221B Baker Street, where Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson are enjoying their customary evening routine. Holmes' unorthodox methods and eccentricities are immediately on display, setting the tone for the unfolding mystery.

Notable Quote:

• Holmes: "My key. If you will excuse me for a moment." [01:50]

This line hints at the clandestine nature of Holmes' investigation, emphasizing his meticulousness in safeguarding his notes and plans.

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The Arrival of Charles Augustus Milverton

The tranquility of the evening is disrupted with the arrival of Charles Augustus Milverton, London's most notorious blackmailer. Milverton's character is introduced as both menacing and suave, a man who wields power through the exploitation of his victims' secrets.

Notable Quotes:

• Milverton: "He's the king of all the blackmailers. Heaven help the man." [03:53]
• Holmes: "How does he work it?" [04:21]

Through their conversation, listeners gain insight into Milverton's modus operandi—paying exorbitant sums for compromising letters, manipulating individuals of high standing, and exploiting their vulnerabilities.

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The Case Unfolds

The core of the episode revolves around Lady Eva Brackwell, a debutante engaged to the Earl of Dovercourt. Lady Eva's imprudent letters to a young country squire have fallen into Milverton's hands, placing her marriage in jeopardy. Milverton seeks £7,000 from Lady Eva, a sum far beyond her means, threatening to prevent her marriage if his demands aren't met by the 14th.

Notable Quotes:

• Milverton: "If the money is not paid on the 14th there will certainly be no marriage on the 18th." [04:03]
• Holmes: "What's he coming here for?" [04:22]
• Milverton: "Lady Eva Brackwell." [04:49]

This interaction lays the foundation for the ethical dilemma Holmes and Watson face: how to deal with a man who manipulates and destroys lives for personal gain.

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A Desperate Plan

As the pressure mounts, Holmes and Watson consider taking matters into their own hands to retrieve the incriminating letters. The discussion reveals the depth of Milverton's influence and the challenges involved in confronting such a formidable adversary.

Notable Quotes:

• Holmes: "I was ready to crack his head if you'd given the word." [08:57]
• Milverton: "But you don't suppose he had them with him? No, they're safe somewhere." [09:07]

This dialogue underscores the strategic thinking required to outmaneuver Milverton, highlighting Holmes' dedication to justice beyond conventional means.

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The Police Involvement

The plot takes a dramatic turn when Milverton is murdered, and Holmes is called upon by Inspector Lestrade to assist in the investigation. The conflicting evidence points suspiciously towards Holmes and Watson themselves, as Milverton was known for his ruthless tactics.

Notable Quotes:

• Holmes: "Philip of the name of Milverton." [23:33]
• Lestrade: "He was shot dead last night." [23:56]
• Milverton: "If I were to raise my voice my servants would be here within a moment." [21:11]

The tension escalates as Holmes must clear his and Watson's names while uncovering the truth behind Milverton's death, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

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Climactic Confrontation

In the final act, Lady Eva confronts Milverton, revealing her motives and the extent of his malevolence. The encounter is intense, culminating in Milverton's downfall and the liberation of those he oppressed.

Notable Quotes:

• Lady Eva Brackwell: "You killed my husband when you sent those letters to him. And I shall kill you now." [21:11]
• Milverton: "Leave the house at once as you came and nothing more will be said." [21:38]
• Lady Eva Brackwell: "I came to free the world of a poisonous sea." [22:04]

These exchanges emphasize the themes of justice, retribution, and the personal cost of corruption, culminating in a satisfying resolution to the mystery.

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Resolution and Reflection

Inspector Lestrade arrives the next morning, and Holmes adeptly explains the intricacies of the case, exonerating himself and Watson from any suspicion. The episode closes with Holmes' reflection on the nature of justice and the lengths to which one must go to uphold it.

Notable Quotes:

• Holmes: "We have their descriptions. We have their footprints. If they were to walk into this room now I'd recognize them quick enough." [26:16]
• Holmes: "Good day to you gentlemen. Good day." [26:31]

These lines encapsulate Holmes' unwavering commitment to truth and his acute observational skills, reinforcing his role as the quintessential detective.

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Conclusion

Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton is a masterful adaptation that captures the essence of Conan Doyle's storytelling. Through nuanced performances and a tightly woven plot, the episode explores themes of power, morality, and justice. Carlton Hobbs' portrayal of Holmes is both charismatic and incisive, while [Actor Name] as Dr. Watson provides the perfect counterbalance with his loyalty and pragmatic outlook.

This episode stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes in radio drama, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a captivating listen filled with suspense, intellectual challenge, and the timeless battle between good and evil.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Holmes: "My key. If you will excuse me for a moment." [01:50]
2. Milverton: "He's the king of all the blackmailers. Heaven help the man." [03:53]
3. Milverton: "If the money is not paid on the 14th there will certainly be no marriage on the 18th." [04:03]
4. Holmes: "I was ready to crack his head if you'd given the word." [08:57]
5. Lady Eva Brackwell: "You killed my husband when you sent those letters to him. And I shall kill you now." [21:11]
6. Holmes: "We have their descriptions. We have their footprints. If they were to walk into this room now I'd recognize them quick enough." [26:16]

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Final Thoughts

Choice Classic Radio Detectives excels in bringing classic tales to life with high production values and engaging storytelling. This episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to ponder the ethical complexities faced by those who seek justice outside the bounds of the law. Whether you're a seasoned Sherlock enthusiast or new to the detective's adventures, this rendition of The Adventure of Charles Augustus Milverton promises an enthralling auditory experience.

Transcript

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[Sherlock Holmes]

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[Dr. John Watson]

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[Dr. John Watson]

It's been so long. How have you been? Hello. I'm doing well, Dave. Why are you talking that way? Please say one for a compliment or two for a question. Yeah, this is weird. I think I'm gonna go.

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[Dr. John Watson]

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[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Great heavens.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Holmes.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Lock the house door, Watson. Quickly, he said.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My friend Sherlock Holmes is always unconventional, but I would never have thought him capable of acting the criminal, much less that he would make me his accomplice. Watson is my name. Dr. Watson. And I was privileged to share the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. And I will tell you about the.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Case of Charles Augustus Milverton.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I guard my notes on the affair most carefully. Ah, my key. If you will excuse me for a moment. It is years since the incidents of which I speak took place. For a long time, even with the utmost discretion and reticence, it would have been impossible to make the facts public. I must still conceal the date and any other fact by which the actual occurrence might be traced. We had been out for one of our evening rambles, Sherlock Holmes and I. It was about 6:00 when we got back to 221B Baker Street.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Ah, Watson, how pleasant. I don't know which I enjoy more, our little evening rambles or the agreeable homecoming when they're over.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, we. Mrs. Hudson's a thank for this part of it. Holmes. Ah, Jove, look at that fire.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

A fire burns its best on a frosty night like this. The lamps lit, our slippers waiting and a pound of new shag tobacco there on the mantelpiece, just waiting for me to smoke it. Bliss, Watson, bliss.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And something nice to drink.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Ehm, you know My dear fellow, I think I will join you in a glass or two. I feel festive. I might even give you a tune.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh you're going to play that fiddle.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Do I take it you're referring to my spadivarius in that disapproving way?

[Agatha]

I don't mean it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here you are my dear fellow.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Ah, thank you. Hello.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Visiting card.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh, now who could that be?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mrs. Hudson must have left it there for us to see before she went upstairs. Charles Augustus Milverton.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh Milverton, that's right. You know him, he's the worst man in London. Is there anything else on the card?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Charles Augustus Milverton, Appledore Towers, Hampstead.

[Agatha]

Agent?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Agent. Anything on the back?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, we'll call at 6:30 cam.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

He's the king of all the blackmailers. Heaven help the man. And even more the woman whose secret and reputation come into Milverton's power. He'll squeeze and squeeze until he's drained them dry. Oh he's a genius in his way. He would have made his mark in some more savory trade.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How does he work it?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Very simply. He lets it be known that he's prepared to pay very high sums for letters which will compromise people of wealth or position. He finds plenty of takers, valets, maids and those artful gentlemen who've won the affection of trusting women.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Sounds a delightful customer. What's he coming here for?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Because an illustrious client has put her case in my hand.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, who?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Lady Eva Brackwell.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The, the debutante? Yes, I was reading about her just the other day I think. Getting married isn't she?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

To the Earl of Dovercourt in a fortnight's time.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Unfortunately for her she's written some very imprudent letters from time to time to some young country squire I believe. Needless to say Milverton's got them.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. And what's his business with you?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

I'm to make the best terms I can with him. I've not much taste for it Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't think you have Holmes. This will be Milverton now.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

I suppose. My instincts tell me it is. Open the door.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Right you are. Ah, Mr. Milverton?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

The same. Come in please.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This is Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

How do you do? Again, Mr. Holmes, this gentleman. This is Dr. Watson, my friend and colleague. I see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How do do sir?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Well it was only on your client's behalf that I wondered if it would be discreet. You may speak frankly in front of my friend. Very well. So to business. I understand Lady Eva has empowered you to act for her? Yes. She has instructed you to accept my terms? What are they? 7,000. And the alternative? Oh my dear sir, it is painful to me to have to discuss alternatives. Do I use the plural? There is only one. Which is if the money is not paid on the 14th there will certainly be no marriage on the 18th. Need I say more? Melbourne? Lady Eva is not a wealthy woman I assure you. £2,000 would be the limit of her resources. The sum you name is utterly beyond her power. Ah, you are Speaking the truth Mr. Holmes, I know it. At the same time you must admit that the occasion of a lady's marriage is a very suitable moment for her friends and relatives to make some little effort on her behalf. It's quite impossible I tell you. Ah, dear me, dear me. How unfortunate. I cannot help feeling that ladies in such a situation are even advised not to make some little effort. Look at this envelope. See the coat of arms? This belongs to. Well perhaps it is hardly fair to mention the name until tomorrow morning but by then it will be in her husband's hands. Mr. Holmes, it is such a pity the money simply cannot be found. Surely it's better for you to take the £2,000 which I offer. It's a substantial sum. If you insist on ruining her you get nothing. How can that profit you? Ah now there you make a mistake. An exposure would profit me considerably. In an indirect way I have eight or ten similar cases maturing. If it became known that I'd made a severe example of the Lady Eva, why I should find all of them much more open to reason. You see my point? Yes Milverton, I see your point. Watson, lock that door will you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Certainly.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh come now Mr. Holmes, I've been expecting you to do something original. This has been done so often. I have this rather large revolver. If I have to file it the law will be on my side. Unlawful detention, don't you know. And now gentlemen, I have one or two more interviews this evening and it is a long drive back to Hampstead.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If you will excuse me.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

No Watson, that didn't pass. Oh, or good night gentlemen. Sleep on it. But do let me hear from you in plenty of time, eh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was ready to crack his head if you'd given the word Holmes.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

It wouldn't have done us any good. I told you he's smart Watson. You can be sure he's well covered against anything like that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

At least we might have got the letters back.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

But you don't suppose he had them with him? No, they're safe somewhere with arrangements made for their Delivery into the wrong hands if anything happened.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's to be done then?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Nothing to do but take his advice. Sleep on it. The answer will come Watson. Let's hope it doesn't take too long, that's all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who's that? Yeah.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

What the devil? You. Oh, what's that Gav.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh Holmes, is that you?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

It's all right Watson. I'm sorry I disturbed you. I'm just going out for a while.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Going out? Why is it after 10? Where are you going? And what's all the fancy get up? Goatee, beard, workman's rigor. What are you up to now?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

You go back to sleep my dear fellow. I'll see you sometimes. Good night my dear one.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good night.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Here I am watching. So I see. And still in your ridiculous fancy dress.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How many more days are you going to go on disappearing on these mysterious jaunts of yours?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Never mind that. For the present I'm ready to get into my comfortable dressing gown for a few blessed eyes before our nice warm fire.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If not ready to give me just some tiny little inkling of what you've been up to these last few days. I'll be bound.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Watson. You. You wouldn't call me a marrying man would you? Marrying?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh I certainly would not.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Then you'll be interested to hear that I'm engaged. What I've supplied to. Then my dear fellow, I congratulate you. Mr. Milverton's housemaid.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh great heavens above.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Well I needed some information. You see Holmes, you needed to.

[Agatha]

You mean to say you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh no Holmes, this is going too far.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Now before you begin lecturing me about my scruples Watson, let me assure you it was a most necessary step. As a matter of fact I'm a plumber. Escot by name. Escort. Oh, I have a very prosperous little business, let me tell you. I have walked out with Aggie. Aggie? Oh really? Agatha? Then I have walked out with her every evening and I have talked with her. Oh dear, those talks. However I found out all I wanted to know. I know Milverton's house like the palm of my hand. This poor girl, Holmes. Bless me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Only the other day you were talking about unscrupulous gentlemen winning the affections of trusting women. Do you remember?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

It couldn't be helped, Watson. You must play your cards as best you can when such a stake is on the table. However, you'll rejoice to know that I have a keen rival who will cut me out of her affections the moment my back is turned. I say what a. What a Splendid night it is.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Splendid. Not fit for a dog to be out in.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

I'd say it suits my purpose. I'm going to burgle Milverton's house tonight.

[Agatha]

For heaven's sake Holmes, think what you're doing.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh I have my dear fellow. There's no other course open to me. You'll surely admit it's morally justifiable and criminal. Technically I agree, but no more so Watson than it would have been to have detained him here that night and forcibly taken his pocketbook. I seem to remember your offering to crack him on the head. Well.

[Sherlock Holmes]

All right Holmes. I don't like it but I suppose it's got to be. When do we start?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

We? Oh you're not coming.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well then you're not going either.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

What?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I never broke my word of honor in my life Holmes, and I give it.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If you don't share this escapade with me I'll take a cab straight to the police and give you away. Yes, yes, I mean it.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Well what? Tonight? My dear fellow you can't help me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh well how do you know that? You can't tell what might happen. Besides Holmes, you're not the only one with self respect. No more reputation even.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

My dear fellow, let it be so. We've shared this room for some years. It would be amusing if they finished up sharing the same cell.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll take that risk.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

You know I don't mind confessing. I've always had an idea that I'd have made a thoroughly efficient criminal. This is my chance of a lifetime to prove it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look here, what on earth have you got there?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Isn't it a beauty? A first class up to date burgling kit, Nickel plated Jemmy, diamond tipped glass cutter, skeleton keys. Every modern improvement the march of civilization demands. Now where's my dart lantern?

[Agatha]

Ah yes.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh by the by have you a pair of silent shoes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, there's my, my tennis shoes. They were rubber soles.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Capital. And a mask.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well I could make a couple out.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Of black silk they'd be good enough to do so. I can see you have a strong natural turn for this sort of thing, Watson. Let me see now, it's 9:30. We'll have some cold supper before we start. We'll put on our dress clothes to look like a couple of homeward bound theater goers. We'll need our greatcoats too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good idea.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

At 11 we'll go out and pick up a hansom in Oxford street and drive to Hampstead. Church Row will do. It's just a few Minutes walk from there to Appledore Towers. We should be at work by midnight. With any luck, we should be back here by two with Lady Eva's letters safely in our pocket. Now, what the.

[Agatha]

Duh.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Here's where we need to go. Quiet.

[Agatha]

No lights anyway.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

No, and my fiance tells me it's a joke in the servants quarters. How heavily the fellow sleeps. It's all they can do to rouse him in the morning.

[Agatha]

I suppose he keeps it on.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

He does a beast of a thing, but Agath has taken to shutting him up at night to give me a clear run. Sweet are the uses of courtship. Well, we'd better put our masks on now.

[Agatha]

Right. Got it.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Right, now listen carefully. We go around to the end of that conservatory there. It's always locked, but I'll take a.

[Agatha]

Pane of glass out of my cutter.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

From there we can get to the.

[Agatha]

Veranda and into his study.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

His bedroom's next to it, so. What a sound when we get inside the house. You understand? Right.

[Agatha]

Home then.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Come along. Our adventure begins.

[Agatha]

So far, so good. I fancy the letters will be in that save in the corner. I should say. It'll take me half an hour to crack that open.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very well.

[Agatha]

Holmes. This door to the veranda. It's unlocked. What? I don't like it. I can't quite make it out. Anyhow, we have no time to lose. Can I do anything? Yes. Stand by this other door and listen. If you hear the slightest sound, get behind the window curtains as quickly as you can and keep still. What about all those doors?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Leave them to me.

[Agatha]

Don't try to help me with them. Do you understand? All right, now, off to the door with you. There's no time to waste.

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[Sherlock Holmes]

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[Dr. John Watson]

It's been so long. How have you been? Hello. I'm doing well, Dave. Why are you talking that way? Please say one for a compliment or two for a question. Yeah, this is weird. I think I'm gonna go.

[Podbean Announcer]

Talking with an automated phone tree can feel pretty ridiculous. That's why when you call Pacific Source Health Plans, you'll get A real person to answer all your important questions. Pacific Source health plan Plans. This is a real person. How can I help you? Human service, not automated phone trees. Find a plan at Pacific Source members first dot com.

[Agatha]

Ah, it's open. Watson you've done it. This? Look there bundles of letters in here. No time to sort through the map. Listen. Someone's coming. This way. Along the corridor. Watson, behind the curtain, quick. Very good Holmes. I'll bring the tools. Right. Required. It's Milverton. The safe doors are jar to eat. Leaving?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Ah good. Come in quickly. Your late. You made me lose a good night's rest to meet you like this.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I hope you'll prove worth it, eh?

[Agatha]

Yes sir.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Well if you couldn't come at any other time, you couldn't and that's all there is to it. That Countess must be a hard mistress to you. Yes, yes. Well this is your chance to get even with her then, isn't it? Bless the girl. What are you shivering about? Pull yourself together.

[Lady Eva Brackwell]

I'm all right sir.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Right, let's get down to business then. Now I understand you've got five letters written by the Countess d'Albert which you think will interest me, is that right? That's right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

You want to sell them, I want to buy them. So far so good. All there is to do then is to fix a price, that's all. Of course I should want to inspect the letters if they're really good specimens.

[Lady Eva Brackwell]

You ah, you remember me then, Mr. Milberton?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

I didn't. Oh but of course dear lady, of course I confess. The veil. But now that I see your face I ask myself how I could for one moment have doubted.

[Lady Eva Brackwell]

Very good Mr. Overton, very gallant. But then of course you have rather special reasons to remember me I think.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh come now, madam, such hard feelings. I ask you, why was I driven to such extremities? In your case, why your own obstinacy, I assure you I did my very best to accommodate you. My very best. But every man must conduct his business as he can.

[Agatha]

Business?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

I put my price well within your means. By turning your diamonds into pastes. You could have met it easily. But no, you would not pay. I ask you, what was that to do?

[Lady Eva Brackwell]

You killed my husband when you sent those letters to him. And I shall kill you now. I admit I wasn't fit to lace his boots. All the same, I humbled myself before you. I begged and prayed for your mercy. You laughed in my face just as you're trying to laugh now.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

You wouldn't dare to fire that thing.

[Lady Eva Brackwell]

Well Charles Milverton what have you to say now?

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Say? Why only that if I were to raise my voice my servants would be here within a moment and I could have you arrested for breaking into my house. But never fear I will make allowance for your natural anger. Leave the house at once as you came and nothing more will be said.

[Lady Eva Brackwell]

Oh no Charles Milverton it isn't as easy as that. I came here to make sure that you ruined no more lives as you ruined mine. I came to free the world of a poisonous sea.

[Agatha]

Listen.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

No.

[Agatha]

Done me.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Great heavens.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Holmes.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Lock the house door Watson quickly. He's dead. There's only one more thing to be done. Here. All these letters from his safe into the fire with them. Come on now help me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Turn to it.

[Agatha]

Close the back.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Now then out through the veranda door as quick as you can.

[Agatha]

Come on.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Be for the garden Walter.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Head to shin. Over now. Watch out someone's coming across the lawn.

[Agatha]

Come on man get over.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Stop I've got. Oh no you haven't.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Let's fix him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Right. Holmes, I'm coming.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Come in. Ah come in the straight. Delighted to see you this fine morning.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Morning Mr. Holmes. Morning Dr. Watson. Morning Lestrade. What brings you here so early? You very busy Mr. Holmes.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Not now Lestrade, not now. If you'd come five minutes earlier you'd have found me very much occupied with my breakfast. What can I do for you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well I thought if you'd nothing particular on end you might get to assist us. Remarkable business last night up at Hampstead.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Dear me, what was that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Murder. Dramatic sort of affair. Philip of the name of Milverton.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

The murderer?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no he was the one done in. Mind you, we've had our eyes on him for some time. He's known to have held papers which he used for blackmailing purposes. Oh yes, well he was shot dead last night. The papers were all burned by the murderers. Couldn't find much evidence about the place. Safe open and nothing in it but some banknotes so it doesn't look so. Robbery was the motive if you ask me. There were a couple of gents in position you know.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh murderers in the plural eh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well definitely two of them it seems. The first was a bit too active. Got over the garden wall quick as you'd say knife. The second wasn't quite so quick off the mark. Had a bit of a struggle with the gardener before he got clear.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Any description?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, evening clothes, middle sized, strongly built man, square jaw, thick neck, moustache mask.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Over his eyes, rather vague. Why it might be a description of Dr. Watson. Oh dear me, that's made him choke hasn't it? Every sign of guilt I'm afraid.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well now that would be a thing wouldn't it? Mr. Holmes? Dr. Watson.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Ah, so. So Milverton's dead, Lestrade. Yes, well I knew something of him. One of the most dangerous men in London I often thought. You know it's my view that there are certain crimes which the law cannot touch and which therefore to some extent justify private revenge.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes Mr. Holmes, but surely you.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

No Lestrate, it's no use arguing. I've made up my mind. For once my sympathies are with the criminals rather than with the victim. I will not handle this case.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well you disappoint me Mr. Holmes. I should report this was just the sort of thing that would have interested you.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Oh it did does, but I can see that as usual your instincts are leading you precisely on the track of the men you want. You'll distinguish yourself in your usual way without any help from me, Lestrade.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very good of you to say that Mr. Holmes and I think I can flatter myself you're right. We have their descriptions. We have their footprints. If they were to walk into this room now I'd recognize them quick enough from what we've got.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Capital.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it's ten to one we trace them. Well I better be getting along gentlemen. It's nippy this morning. Quite a frost last night there was. Well Christmas will soon be here. Good day to you gentlemen. Good day.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

Good day.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Illustrate Charles Augustus Milverton was one of the stories of Sherlock Holmes from the inspired pen of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. My real name is Norman Sherry. My friend Carlton Hobbs played Sherlock Holmes and I was Dr. Watson. The script for this BBC production from London was by Michael Hardwick.

[Charles Augustus Milverton]

May I say I look forward to.

[Sherlock Holmes]

To the pleasure of your company again soon for more of the adventures of Sherlock Holmes.