Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of Sally Martin 11/23/1946 (Conway & Bruce)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes – "The Adventure of Sally Martin"

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of Sally Martin 11/23/1946 (Conway & Bruce)
Release Date: May 8, 2026
Featuring: Tom Conway (Sherlock Holmes), Nigel Bruce (Dr. Watson)

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Episode Overview

In this atmospheric mystery set in a foggy English fishing village, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are drawn away from a quiet holiday in Kingsgate to solve a chilling double murder aboard the sailing vessel "Sally Martin." The case—fraught with family tensions, hidden motives, and clever deceptions—challenges Holmes to see through a web of staged clues and misdirection. Listeners are treated to classic Holmesian deduction, engaging characters, and an intricate plot that highlights the timeless appeal of Golden Age radio detectives.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Holiday Interrupted

• Holmes and Watson are staying at the Silver Dolphin Inn in Kingsgate for Holmes' rest (02:39).
• The peaceful setting is interrupted when the local Sergeant Dobson seeks their help investigating a murder.

2. The Crime Aboard the "Sally Martin"

• Wealthy cotton manufacturer George Byron is found stabbed to death in his cabin (05:02).
• The only clues: an open book in the victim’s hand, an oil lamp burning, no signs of struggle—a murder carried out by someone the victim trusted (07:43–08:11).
• Holmes’ deduction: The killer must be someone allowed into the cabin without suspicion, possibly including the captain (08:34).

3. Suspects Introduced

• Mrs. Byron: The victim’s younger, somewhat “flighty” wife, seems emotionally unstable and potentially interested in the secretary (06:11, 09:14–10:00).
  • She claims her late husband’s brother, Clarence, is his “biggest enemy.”
  • Notable quote: “His biggest enemy…is on this very boat now. His brother Clarence.” — Mrs. Byron (09:41)
• Clarence Byron: The victim’s brother; described as calm despite the murder. Accused of forgery and having a motive due to financial tensions (06:15, 11:53–13:34).
• Mr. Hodgson: The secretary; well-spoken, close to Mrs. Byron, allegedly platonic but possibly another motive (06:45, 11:24–11:48).
• Captain Small & Deckhand Arthur Coggins: The captain is upright; Coggins is surly and skilled with knives, has a criminal record, and publically threatened the victim (07:06, 13:38–14:58).

4. A Sudden "Confession" and Second Death

• Coggins is found dead—a supposed suicide with a note confessing to the murder (16:12–16:22).
• Holmes is immediately suspicious, noting Coggins was left-handed, while the revolver is in his right hand and the bullet entered from an improbable angle for suicide (18:38–19:02).
  • Notable deduction: “A remarkable feat of dexterity for a left handed man.” — Holmes (19:02)
• Holmes concludes, “If you look closely...we now have two murders to solve instead of one.” (16:33)

5. Handwriting and Misdirection

• Holmes and Watson visit the seaman’s hostel, discovering Coggins’ record and that Clarence Byron supposedly engaged him (20:00–22:03).
  • Clues: The person who hired Coggins wore a gold signet ring on the right hand (22:16–22:31).
• Back on the Sally Martin, Holmes orchestrates a handwriting comparison: Hodgson forges Clarence’s signature with ease, revealing his skill and the likelihood he set Clarence up (23:07–24:16).

6. The Motive and Culprit Revealed

• Hodgson, infatuated with Mrs. Byron and possessing handwriting skill, orchestrated both Byron’s and Coggins’ deaths, framing others using forged signatures and Coggins’ criminal past (25:21–25:41).
• Mrs. Byron is implicated as an accomplice after a brief emotional exchange (24:31–24:40).

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• "Come Watson, the game's a foot." — Holmes (05:38)
• On Mrs. Byron’s character: "She looks a bit on the flighty side if you ask me.” — Sergeant Dobson (06:17)
• "It's no good Mabel, and you know it as well as I do... you helped me...you suggested that I use Clarence's name." — Hodgson, admitting guilt (24:34–24:39)
• Holmes' humility and wit at the episode’s close:
  “I intend to claim no credit in the solution of this crime and in consequence I see little reason why our old friend Sergeant Dobson should not very soon be known as Inspector Dobson.” — Holmes (26:20)

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Notable Timestamps

• 03:17–05:28: Holmes and Watson receive news of the murder and head to the Sally Martin.
• 07:43–08:11: Holmes makes key observations at the crime scene.
• 09:14–10:00: Mrs. Byron accuses the brother; her temperament revealed.
• 13:34–15:01: Clarence accuses deckhand Coggins, describes a knife-throwing threat.
• 16:12–16:33: Coggins' staged “suicide” discovered; Holmes suspects murder.
• 18:38–19:02: Holmes explains physical evidence disproving the suicide theory.
• 21:02–22:31: Jenkins, the hostel owner, provides a crucial clue—signet ring.
• 23:07–24:16: The handwriting trap; Hodgson is exposed as the murderer.
• 25:21–25:41: Holmes summarizes how Coggins was framed and how Hodgson erred.
• 26:20–26:43: Holmes ensures the sergeant will receive credit for the case.

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Episode Tone and Style

Classic Golden Age radio drama—brisk, witty, and steeped in atmospheric detail. Holmes and Watson banter, the supporting cast deliver vivid characterizations, and tension builds via careful layering of evidence and red herrings. Listeners are drawn into a puzzling mystery where even apparent "open-and-shut" clues dissolve under Sherlock Holmes’ relentless logic.

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For New Listeners

This episode provides a quintessential Sherlock Holmes experience: a blend of deduction, human folly, and a twisty plot. The story demonstrates Holmes’ belief in careful observation, his appreciation for psychological clues, and the pitfalls of both too-clever criminals and those too eager to leap to conclusion. It’s perfect for fans of classic, character-driven detective mysteries.

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Transcript

[Sherlock Holmes]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we

[Dr. Watson]

bring to you the greatest old time

[Sherlock Holmes]

radio shows, like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Narrator / Announcer]

Kremel hair tonic and kremel shampoo present the new adventures of sherlock holmes. Starring nigel bruce as Dr. Watson and tom conway as sherlock holmes. Now, once again, it's time to keep our weekly appointment with that incomparable host and storyteller, Dr. Watson. I'm sure he's expecting us.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Of course I am, Mr. Bell. So come in, draw up your usual chair and make yourself comfortable. That's it.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Thank you. Dr. Watson, what story are you planning to tell us tonight?

[Sergeant Dobson]

Quite an exciting one, I think. The only relic I have of it is this rather mildewed piece of paper. I came across it just before you arrived as I was going over my notes on the case.

[Narrator / Announcer]

But this doesn't look very exciting. It's a hotel bill and all it says is board and lodging for one week, 28 shillings and sixpence. Then there's an extra item, one pint of ale, not paid for five pence.

[Sergeant Dobson]

And yet that extra pint of ale was ordered at the very moment when Sherlock Holmes and I entered into one of the weirdest experiences we ever had. I call it the Adventure of the Sally Market.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Before you begin the story, Dr. Watson, do you mind if I have a

[Sergeant Dobson]

word with our listeners?

[Narrator / Announcer]

Of course not, little Bell men, if you want a successful, prosperous appearance, don't give your hair that cheap, greasy, plastered down look. Many products advertise that they don't leave the hair looking or feeling greasy. But let's make this test run your hand over your hair. Does your hair feel greasy or sticky? Now look at your hand. Is there a greasy film on it? If there is, then you certainly are not using Kremel hair tonic. Because Kremel positively never leaves the hair looking or feeling greasy, sticky or dirty. Kremel contains a very special hair grooming ingredient found in no other hair tonic. It makes dry, unruly hair stay in place longer. Gives it such a nice healthy looking luster too. When you use Kremel, you can run your hand over your hair and no grease comes off notice to have delightfully clean your hair feels. And just see if the ladies don't like that natural, well groomed look which Kremel always gives. Try it. Men K R E M L Kremel Hair Tonic. Now, Dr. Watson, how about the Adventure of the Sally Martin?

[Sergeant Dobson]

Well, the story began many years ago in the Tiny fishing village of Kingsgate on the Kentish coast. At my insistence Sherlock Holmes had agreed to take a much needed holiday and we were staying for a few days at a small seaside inn known as the Silver Dolphin. The adventure began I remember. On a foggy, bitterly cold evening Holmes and I, after a hearty dinner were seated in the public bar of the inn talking to a garrulous old sailor. Little did we think that even in that peaceful village dark tragedy was stalking us. Tragedy that very soon was to be brought to our attention.

[Dr. Watson]

Here you are Albert, another pint.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Thank you kindly sir. Now here's your very good health gentleman. What an amazing capacity. That's the fifth. I can't think where he puts it.

[Dr. Watson]

I see no mystery there Watson. Go on with your story Albert. You just reached the point where the shark had turned on you.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Well gentlemen, I upps on the rail and dives into that raging sea, pulls out me knife. Oh really, where did you get the knife? I thought you said that you'd lost your clothes in the Hurricanes. Stripped to me middle I was but I always kept a Barry knife stuck in me belt. Oh really, how uncomfortable? Well I see the white belly of

[Dr. Watson]

the shark turning at me.

[Narrator / Announcer]

I let him have it.

[Dr. Watson]

A rip here, a slash there.

[Sergeant Dobson]

There was blood all over the place.

[Dr. Watson]

Never saw such a mess.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Storytelling's very dry work gentlemen.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll order you another pint, Albert.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Thank you.

[Dr. Watson]

Can't be sir. Watson, look who's just come in.

[Sergeant Dobson]

It's our old friend Sergeant Dobson, isn't it?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, and judging by his expression the local representative of the law has serious business on his mind. Good evening Sergeant.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Evening Dr. Watson.

[Sergeant Dobson]

How are you Dobson?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Can I have a word with you Private like?

[Dr. Watson]

Of course you can.

[Sergeant Dobson]

I beg pardon sir but you did say something about buying me another pint. Don't worry Albert, we'll have it sent over for it.

[Dr. Watson]

Please give Albert another pint Annie. Put it on my bill.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Right you are Mr. Rome.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perhaps you wouldn't mind stepping into the private bar, gentlemen?

[Dr. Watson]

Very well. Now Sergeant, sit down and tell us what's on your mind.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Murder, Mr. Holmes.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Great Scott. Who? Where?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well have you gentlemen noticed the fancy sailing boat that's been moored out in the COVID this past week?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I was informed that it was owned by George Byron, the Lancashire cotton manufacturer.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's correct sir. The boat's named the Sally Martin and right at this moment Mr. Byron's lying there in his cabin with a knife in his ribs deader and a boiled mackerel.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Gracious me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I rode ashore to send a telegram to the police at Canterbury but I left a constable to guard the people aboard.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Good.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I, I'm going back now to conduct my investigation but the Canterbury police can't be here before morning and I, I

[Dr. Watson]

was hoping that, that we'd help you Sergeant.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well sir, a case like this is a little outside of my experience.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Just a minute Dobson. Mr. Holmes is still a sick man. It's cold out and foggy as is. Doctor, I forbid.

[Dr. Watson]

Rubbish. How can I stay here in the inn while a murder lies waiting to be solved less than a mile away? Come Watson, the game's a foot.

[Sergeant Dobson]

How much further is it Sergeant?

[Dr. Watson]

About us?

[Sherlock Holmes]

About a quarter of a mile, sir.

[Sergeant Dobson]

If you don't get there soon I won't answer for the consequences. I'm a rotten sailor.

[Dr. Watson]

Cheer up Watson. In the meanwhile, Sergeant, suppose you give me as many facts as possible. How many people are board the Sally Martin?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well there's three passengers, Mr. Holmes, and two in the crew.

[Dr. Watson]

Let's have those passions as first.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well there's Mrs. Byron, the dead man's wife. A lot younger than him she is. And she looks a bit on the flighty side if you ask me. Even though she was having a proper fit of hysterics like. Then there's, there's Clarence Byron, the dead man's brother.

[Dr. Watson]

And what opinion did you form as to his character?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well sir, you understand I didn't talk to him much but he acted cool as a cucumber just, just as if murder didn't mean a thing to him.

[Dr. Watson]

And the third passenger?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well he's a young fella by the name of Archson, secretary to the dead man. Very nicely spoken gentleman he is. But it seemed to me as if Mrs. Palmer Byron had quite an eye for him even, even through her tears. That's why I said she seemed flighty like.

[Dr. Watson]

You're very observant, Sergeant.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh it's, it's just training, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

How about the two crew members?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well there's, there's Captain Small, he seemed perfectly above board and a man by the name of Coggins, Arthur Coggins. He's a, he's a deckhand and a mighty surly one at that. He gave me quite a bit of back chat when I questioned him.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Holmes, how much further is it?

[Dr. Watson]

Barely 100 yards, old chap.

[Sergeant Dobson]

I feel awful. Do hurry up.

[Dr. Watson]

Move over Sergeant. Let me take an oar.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There's the murdered man, Mr. Holmes. That's just how we found him.

[Dr. Watson]

Very illuminating.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Look at that murderous Knife? It's buried to the hilt in his chest.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, but more interesting than the knife at the moment is the tableau presented in this cabin. What story does it tell you Watson?

[Sergeant Dobson]

Very simple story. Somebody opened the cabin door, came in and stabbed him.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh come now, surely our years together have made you a little more perceptive than that.

[Sergeant Dobson]

What you're driving at.

[Dr. Watson]

Well for one thing in his right hand is an open book.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Oh. Been reading?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, and the sergeant has told us that the oil lantern beside his bunk was still burning when the body was found.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's right Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

There's no sign of a struggle. Bed clothes are in, aren't even rumpled. No cry for help was heard. So let us reconstruct the scene. Mr. Byron was lying in his bunk reading as you observed Watson. The door opens, the murderer comes in, the knife hidden in his or her clothing. The victim has no suspicion of his fate because the murderer was someone who could enter his cabin at will and suddenly the fatal blow is struck.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Then it must have been one of the three passengers.

[Dr. Watson]

I think we may reasonably include the captain. The master of a schooner surely would have the ability to enter his employer's cabin without creating suspicion.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh you're right Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

I think we've seen enough here. Sergeant, where are the passengers?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In their cabin sir. I told them to wait there until they were sent for. The main saloon's empty. You could see them in there, nice and private like.

[Dr. Watson]

Splendid. Then let's go there at once.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Oh there, there, there. Mrs. Baron, my friend's only trying to help you.

[Mrs. Byron]

Oh how can he help me? He can't bring poor George back to life again can he?

[Dr. Watson]

No madam but at least I can try to find his murderer for you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He's right mum. So take that easy like and answer his questions.

[Mrs. Byron]

Very well. What do you Want to know Mr. Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

Can you suggest anyone who might have had the motive for murdering your husband?

[Mrs. Byron]

Oh half a dozen men. George made a lot of money. He was a hard businessman.

[Dr. Watson]

He had many enemies but none of his business enemies. Had an opportunity of killing him tonight.

[Mrs. Byron]

His biggest enemy, though I never could make him believe it is on this very boat now. His brother Clarence.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Biggest enemy? His own brother. Oh come, come, come madam.

[Mrs. Byron]

It's true. Clarence sponged on him, has done for years. Ever since I married George he's tried to be more friendly to me than a brother in law should be. Just because I was once in the theater he seems to think I didn't know. Harold.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Lady boy, you in the theater? I wonder if you knew a girl who was daily's pretty little figure.

[Dr. Watson]

Watson. Surely this is no time for your theatrical reminiscences. Mrs. Byron are you familiar with the terms of your husband's will?

[Mrs. Byron]

Everything he has comes to me. Oh well that's perfectly natural isn't it?

[Dr. Watson]

Perfectly. But in that case your brother in law would hardly seem to profit from your husband's death.

[Mrs. Byron]

I don't know what you're suggesting Mr. Sherlock Holmes. You think I stabbed him?

[Dr. Watson]

Wouldn't they the strength Mrs. Byron. I suggested nothing. But I'm interested to notice that you answer your questions as well as ask them.

[Mrs. Byron]

Well I'm not staying here to answer any more questions Mr. Holmes. I'm going back to my cabin. If you want me that's where you'll find me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now wait a minute.

[Dr. Watson]

Let her go Sergeant and please ask Mr. Hodgson the Secretary to come in here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just as you say sir.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Upon my soul she's a fiery little thing isn't she? Just attractive too. What do you make of her home?

[Dr. Watson]

It's hard to say. If one wished to adduce motive it would be easy.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Well she must be 25 years younger than her husband and the fortune coming to her is deaf eh?

[Dr. Watson]

Precisely. And despite her own statement a woman would have the strength to stab an unsuspecting man to death.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here's Mr. Hodgson sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you sergeant. Please sit down Mr. Hodgson. Yes Mr. Holmes. This is a shocking business.

[Sergeant Dobson]

It is indeed. Mama.

[Dr. Watson]

I'd like to ask you a few questions. Any questions you like. When did you last see your employer tonight? Shortly after dinner Mr. Holmes. He was taking a turn round the deck. We chatted for a few minutes and then I went to my cabin and retired. It was about 9:30, a quarter to 10.

[Sergeant Dobson]

You heard no cry for help? No shout in the night?

[Dr. Watson]

No, none. The first I knew of the tragedy was when the captain awakened me. Can you suggest who might have had a motive for his murder? Mr. Holmes that's, that's a little hard to answer.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come now Mr. Hodgson, don't hold anything back. You'll have to talk in a court of law you know.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes I suppose so. Well gentlemen, in my capacity as secretary I did know that my employer's brother Clarence was has been borrowing heavily. Only yesterday morning I was compelled to draw my employer's attention to an irregularity in the monthly bank statement. A 500 pound check had been drawn. The signature was a forgery.

[Sergeant Dobson]

You think that Clarence Baron committed that forgery?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes I do sir. And so did my employer. The two brothers had a Terrible row about it. Sergeant, will you be good enough to ask Mr. Clarence Byron to come here please?

[Narrator / Announcer]

Right you are.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ms. Peru.

[Dr. Watson]

One very personal question, Mr. Hobson. Was the relationship between you and your employer's wife purely social? One as a matter of fact. Mrs. Byron has been very kind to me. My family are dead and she's taken an interest in me but I give you my word that it's been purely platonic.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes Sergeant Hobson. Mr. Clarence?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Byron's lying in his bunk sir. He says he can't come here, he's

[Mrs. Byron]

got a heart attack.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Heart attack? That's rather convenient, eh Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes Watson, and it's also convenient that there's a doctor aboard. Let's go and see him shall we?

[Sergeant Dobson]

Do you feel any better Mr. Byron? Yes, yes I do Doctor. That injection you gave me helped. It was digitalis I suppose. No it wasn't. Holmes's heart perfectly sound. He was simulating an attack.

[Dr. Watson]

So I gathered since an injection of plain water apparently gave him immediate relief. Plain water?

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yes, your heartbeat was full and regular and your color normal. So I decided to try an experiment

[Dr. Watson]

and a very successful one. Why did you pretend to have a heart attack Mr. Byron?

[Sergeant Dobson]

I. I wasn't pretending.

[Dr. Watson]

I do have a bad heart that I don't doubt. Only a bad heart could prompt you to swindle your brother and then murder him. I didn't murder him though I can tell you who did. Oh you are very eager to shift suspicion Mr. Byron. Who in your opinion murdered your brother? That deckhand Arthur Coggins.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Only a few days ago he threatened my brother's life.

[Dr. Watson]

You heard him make the threat. Yes I did.

[Sergeant Dobson]

It was his second day aboard. It was early in the morning. I was strolling on deck when I

[Dr. Watson]

came on this man Coggins standing by

[Sergeant Dobson]

the mainmast practicing throwing a knife. You're pretty handy with a knife Coggins.

[Dr. Watson]

What's that?

[Sergeant Dobson]

I said you're pretty handy with a knife.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I know how to use a knife.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Do you think you're going to like being on this ship?

[Narrator / Announcer]

No, not if I don't get treated like a human being. Just yesterday the owner yells out to me here you whatever your name is

[Sergeant Dobson]

treating me like dirt.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Whatever your name is. Can't he find out me now name? I'm as good as he is. One of these dark nights he'll get what's coming to him.

[Dr. Watson]

That's what he said Mr. Holmes and he looked as if he meant business.

[Sergeant Dobson]

He's an expert with a knife you say Holmes? Do you think it's possible that Coggins threw the knife through a porthole into the dead man's cabin?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, Watson, is possible. Your story was interesting, Mr. Byron, though of course entirely uncorroborated. I think we'll go and talk to the captain and see if he can supplement your information. Well Mr. Holmes, I can't answer for the passengers. That's no business in mind. I appreciate that, Captain Small, but you'll answer for your crew no doubt that I will, sir. And this man Coggins is a no good if ever I saw one. Insubordinate, surly, always talking about how he's

[Sergeant Dobson]

as good and better than those who employ him. Then why did you engage him, Captain?

[Dr. Watson]

I didn't sir. That was arranged by my employer, Mr. George Bardon. If I had my way Coggins would have gone back ashore the first day he stepped aboard. Where are his.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Great Scott. Was that a revolver shot?

[Dr. Watson]

It sounded like it and it came from the forecastle.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes. Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

This way, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Good heavens.

[Mrs. Byron]

Why it's cocking.

[Sergeant Dobson]

With a smoking revolver in his right hand he's committed suicide.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, very convincing isn't it? His head is sprawled on a piece of foolscap. A confession note no doubt.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yes it is. Look at this. I killed him and with my record I knew you'd catch me so I took the quick way out. Case is solved, Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

On the contrary, Watson, it's becoming more involved. If you look closely you will realize that we now have two murders to solve instead of one. And somewhere on this boat a murderer is still at large and may strike a third time.

[Narrator / Announcer]

In just a moment we'll find out if the murderer does strike a third time. But first, men, if you're bald you might as well grin and bear it because science tells us it's impossible to grow hair where the hair roots are dead. But you certainly can make the most of the hair you've got and men you can't beat. Kremel Hair Tonic to help you. Kremel contains very special hair grooming ingredients found in no other hair tonic. That's why Kremel keeps hair neatly in place, longer and without that offensive greasy look. But Kremel does lots more than keep hair looking handsome. Let me repeat, Kremel does lots more than keep hair looking handsome. A massage with Kremel helps stimulate circulation right in the surface of the scalp. Your scalp feels so alive, so invigorated. At the same time it removes loose dandruff and has a fine lubricating effect. On a dry scalp and for hair that's so dry that it cracks and falls remember Kremel actually helps condition the hair in that it leaves it feeling so much softer and more pliable. Men buy a bottle of Kremel at any drug counter. It's such a nice clean product you can use it every day so that your hair always looks its best. K R E M L Kremel hair tie. So Dr. Watson the apparent suicide turned out to be another of the murderer's victims.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yes, Mr. Bell. Holmes at once sent Sergeant Dobson to check the passengers. While the three of us stood in that tiny cabin an oil lamp swinging above us and shedding a strange glow on the macabre scene I asked him why he was so positive that it wasn't suicide.

[Dr. Watson]

He will notice Watson that the revolver is in Coggins right hand.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yes Holmes. I don't see what.

[Dr. Watson]

Then ignore the right hand and observe the left. A deckhand is accustomed to hard manual labor. Notice the calluses on his left hand and the freedom from them on the right by Joe.

[Sergeant Dobson]

He was left handed?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes he was Mr. Holmes. I've noticed him at work again. You'll observe the shot entered his head from behind the right ear. A remarkable feat of dexterity for a left handed man.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Then the murderer had the note ready, shot Coggins from behind but made the mistake of placing the revolver in the wrong hand.

[Dr. Watson]

Precisely. But this note obviously in disguised writing poses another problem. What does the phrase and with my record I knew you'd catch me mean?

[Sergeant Dobson]

He must have had a police record.

[Dr. Watson]

But why volunteer the information? I wonder if the murderer had a reason. Captain, you said that Cockins was engaged by Mr. George Byron. Well sir, he told me about the new man but I don't know that he interviewed him personally. Where was he engaged? At the seamen's hostel here in the village.

[Sergeant Dobson]

What are you getting at home surely?

[Dr. Watson]

It's obvious Watson. If this man Coggins had a police record his murderer might have deliberately placed him on this boat knowing he would be suspected. Yes, yes it's possible. The question is who engaged him? Well Sergeant?

[Sergeant Dobson]

All three of them in their cabins

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes and swore they unloved them.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yet we know that one of them must have slipped down here and shot Coggins.

[Dr. Watson]

Lock them in their cabin Sergeant. Keep good watch on them. Dr. Watson and I are going ashore.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Sure. Why Holmes when the murder is here on this boat?

[Dr. Watson]

Because I'm convinced that the clue to his identity lies waiting for us at the seaman's hostel. Where is the Place Sergeant. And who runs it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Old my Jenkins. It's the house just next to the Red lion on the quayside.

[Dr. Watson]

Splendid Watson. We're taking this note and rowing ashore.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Another trip in that filthy rowing boat, must we Holmes?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

It's a fine time of night to roodle a respectable woman out of a warm bed I must say and no mistake.

[Sergeant Dobson]

But Mrs. Jenkins.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Mommy. Ma. Everyone calls me Ma.

[Dr. Watson]

Very well. We've come to you because you're the one person who can help solve two murders that took place on the Sally Martin tonight.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Murder? Come into me parlor. I like the lamp.

[Sergeant Dobson]

There.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Now what this you say happened aboard the Sally Martin?

[Sergeant Dobson]

The owner, Mr. Baron, was stabbed to death about 10 o' clock tonight. Later on a seaman by the name of Arthur Coggins was killed too.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Arthur was killed?

[Sergeant Dobson]

You knew this man, Arthur Coggins?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Course I did. Over a year he's been staying with me. He couldn't get a ship because of his record.

[Dr. Watson]

What record was that?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

He brought his ship's papers to me. They all do when they're out of a berth. The last ship he was on two years ago it was. He got mixed up in a knife fight.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Oh did he?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Alaska was killed and Arthur arrested. They couldn't prove he was guilty but he hasn't had a birth since cause it was written in his papers.

[Sergeant Dobson]

That fits into your theory, Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

The murderer engaged him deliberately knowing his record exactly. Mrs. Ma that's me. Do you recall the name of the man who interviewed Coggins?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

No.

[Dr. Watson]

The man who engaged him for the Sally Martin?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Uh, no, but it's here in me book is the last entry I made. Here it is.

[Dr. Watson]

Clarence. Byron.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Brother.

[Sergeant Dobson]

There's our man.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, could you describe the appearance of Mr. Byron Myers?

[Mrs. Jenkins]

No, I can't say I remember much about him. He was all muffled up. He was a nice spoken gentleman though.

[Dr. Watson]

You can recall no clue to his identity? It's worth a sovereign to you if you can.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

A sovereign? Well let me think. Ah yes, there's one thing I do remember. He had a gold signet ring on his right hand.

[Dr. Watson]

Splendid.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ma.

[Dr. Watson]

Watson, the case is solved.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Of course it is. Clarence is a man.

[Dr. Watson]

May I congratulate you on your powers of observation, Watson? Ma. Here are two sovereigns for you.

[Mrs. Jenkins]

Two? But she.

[Dr. Watson]

The extra one is for the privilege of borrowing this registry book of yours for a few hours. No, I'm taking it back to the Sally Martin with us so that we may compare the handwriting in it with that of a murderer.

[Mrs. Byron]

Oh but this is ridiculous Mr. Holmes. Why should you ask Clarence to sign his name.

[Dr. Watson]

Bear with me a few moments longer Mrs. Byron and you will see why.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Lest if I know what you're up to Mr. Holmes.

[Sergeant Dobson]

I know. Patience Sergeant and you'll see too.

[Dr. Watson]

Have you any objection to signing your name Mr. Byron?

[Sergeant Dobson]

I suppose not. Though I'm just as confused as the rest of them.

[Dr. Watson]

There. Thank you. And now Mr. Hodgson, I wonder if you would mind helping us. Of course not Mr. Holmes. What can I do? You saw a forged cheque. I wonder if you'd try and imitate the signature that Mr. Clarence Byron has just written. Mr. Byron's signature? Yes. His writing is extremely individual but I think you could help prove that under certain circumstances it can be elastic. See how nearly you can imitate it. I think it will help us to prove that he murdered his brother.

[Mrs. Byron]

Clarence. You did murder George. I knew it.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Neville you're out of your mind. Will you copy his signature Mr. Hodgson?

[Dr. Watson]

Of course, if you think it'll help you.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Holmes. Holmes look, look.

[Dr. Watson]

Hodgson. Sign please Mr. Hodgson. Clarence Byron.

[Narrator / Announcer]

There.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you. That's a remarkably fine gold signet ring you're wearing Mr. Hodgson.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Thank you.

[Dr. Watson]

Watson. Give me Mar Jenkins register book.

[Sergeant Dobson]

There you are Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Sergeant I want you to compare the signature in this book with that which Mr. Hodgson has just given us. I think you'll agree that they're both written by the same man.

[Narrator / Announcer]

They are. Well blow me down.

[Sergeant Dobson]

So he forged Clarence's signature?

[Dr. Watson]

Exactly. He is quite a specialist in handwriting.

[Mrs. Byron]

Albert. You didn't kill him. You couldn't have done it.

[Dr. Watson]

It's no good Mabel and you know

[Sherlock Holmes]

it as well as I do.

[Dr. Watson]

You knew what I was up to.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You helped me.

[Dr. Watson]

You suggested that I use Clarence's name.

[Mrs. Byron]

That's a lie.

[Dr. Watson]

A lie or not Sergeant I suggest you take out your notebook. They're talking in front of witnesses so make the most of the fact. The sun's coming up Watson.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yes,

[Dr. Watson]

a very satisfactory start to a new day. Confessed murderer and his accomplice both of them safely in the care of the police.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Yes, I was convinced until we found him murdered that Cogginsey the deckhand was the guilty body.

[Dr. Watson]

Exactly what you were meant to think.

[Sergeant Dobson]

I thought that as he was an expert knife thrower he could have thrown one through a porthole into the dead man's cabin.

[Dr. Watson]

No Watson. Both portholes were at the head of the bunk but the knife wound was from the underside of the heart and upwards. It would have been impossible to have thrown the knife through a porthole at

[Sergeant Dobson]

such an angle as I Can see it all now. Young Hodgson, coveting his employer's wife, planned a knife murder and then engaged Coggins, knowing that with his record he'd be the logical suspect.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, but like so many murderers, he tried to be too clever. He left enough clues to hang himself half a dozen times.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Why did Clarence pretend to have that heart attack?

[Dr. Watson]

The nervousness of a person who knows himself to be under suspicion. A futile attempt to escape interrogation.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Well, I'm glad it's all over. I'm exhausted and I'm frozen and I'm delighted to think that this is my last trip in this horrible rowing boat.

[Dr. Watson]

Whereas I'm feeling very stimulated and in a distinctly altruistic mood.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Altruistic? What do you mean? Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

If you'll observe the flurry of excitement at the quayside, the figures in blue serge that are at this moment embarking in boats, you'll realize that the police from Canterbury have just arrived.

[Sergeant Dobson]

I still don't see how altruism comes into the picture.

[Dr. Watson]

I intend to claim no credit in the solution of this crime and in consequence I see little reason why our old friend Sergeant Dobson should not very soon be known as Inspector Dobson.

[Narrator / Announcer]

In just a moment Dr. Watson will tell us something about next week's story. But first girls, if you want to really make a hit with a boyfriend, here's a beauty tip right out from here in Hollywood and one which lovely Powers models were among the first to discover.

[Mrs. Byron]

Give your hair a 10 minute glamour bath with Cremel Shampoo. This amazingly beautifying shampoo has been especially developed so that it actually brings out all the brilliant natural luster of each tiny strand of hair. Cremel shampoo leaves the hair fairly teeming with highlights.

[Narrator / Announcer]

And don't forget, Cremel shampoo is wonderful for the entire family.

[Mrs. Byron]

Yes, even in the hardest water it whips up gobs of rich luxurious foam which penetrates right to the scalp and removes all loose dandruff as well as the dirt.

[Narrator / Announcer]

So ladies, buy the large family size of Kremel Shampoo. K R E M L Kremel Shampoo. The largest selling shampoo with an oil base. Now Dr. Watson, what about next week?

[Sergeant Dobson]

Well now let me see.

[Dr. Watson]

Next week.

[Sergeant Dobson]

Next week I think I'll tell you how Holmes solved a murder with only one clue. The depth to which the parsley had sunk in the butter on a hot summer's day. I call this bizarre adventure the strange death of Mrs. Abernety.

[Narrator / Announcer]

Tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure was suggested by an incident in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story, the Rygate Puzzle. Nigel Bruce appeared by permission of California Pictures, Tom Conway, through the courtesy of Eagle Lion Pictures. This is Joseph Bell speaking for Kremel Hair Tonic and Kremel Shampoo and inviting you to be with us next week at this same time when Dr. Watson will tell us about the strange death of Mrs. Abernety. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.