Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Abbey Grange (Hobbs & Shelley)

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Abbey Grange (Hobbs & Shelley)
Release Date: March 7, 2025

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with a riveting adaptation of Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Abbey Grange. Brought to life by the talented voices of Carlton Hobbs as Sherlock Holmes and Norman Shelley as Dr. John Watson, the story delves into a mysterious case at the affluent Abbey Grange estate in Kent. Based on the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and adapted for radio by Michael Hardwick, this episode promises suspense, intricate deductions, and the timeless brilliance of Holmes.

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Plot Summary

The adventure begins on a bitterly cold winter morning in 1897 when Dr. Watson is awakened by Sherlock Holmes's urgent summons. [00:18] Holmes declares, "The game is afoot," propelling them into action as they travel to Charing Cross Station and board the Kentish train to Marsham, Kent.

Upon arrival at Abbey Grange, Holmes and Watson are greeted by Inspector Stanley Hopkins, who briefs them on the grim situation: Sir Eustace Brackenstall, one of Kent's wealthiest men, has been murdered. The lady of the house, Mrs. Brackenstall, reports that three men forcibly entered her home, assaulted her, and ultimately killed her husband with a poker.

Holmes meticulously examines the scene, questioning both Mrs. Brackenstall and her maid, Theresa Wright. [03:08] While the initial assumption points to the notorious Lewisham gang of burglars, comprising the Randall family, Holmes detects inconsistencies in their accounts. Notably, the presence of three wine glasses at the crime scene conflicts with Mrs. Brackenstall's story of three assailants.

Delving deeper, Holmes uncovers subtle discrepancies, such as the way the bell rope was manipulated to prevent the usual alarm from triggering. [08:39] His keen observation leads him to suspect that only two burglars were involved, with the third glass being a fabrication to mislead the investigation.

Determined to unearth the truth, Holmes decides to disregard the straightforward explanation and embarks on his own line of inquiry. He visits the shipping office of the Adelaide Southampton Line, searching for connections to the maid and Mrs. Brackenstall's past. Although his initial suspicions about the gang appear undermined when the Randalls are arrested in New York, Holmes remains undeterred, recognizing the possibility of other criminal elements at play.

The climax unfolds as Holmes confronts Captain Jack Croker, who reveals his tumultuous relationship with Mrs. Brackenstall. Through a blend of psychological insight and strategic manipulation, Holmes orchestrates a scenario where Croker inadvertently confesses to the crime, exposing his motives rooted in jealousy and betrayal.

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Character Interactions and Key Moments

• Sherlock Holmes & Dr. John Watson: Their dynamic partnership is showcased through collaborative problem-solving and Holmes's relentless pursuit of truth. [10:30] Holmes's insistence on not leaving the case despite Watson's objections highlights his dedication.

• Inspector Stanley Hopkins: Acts as the bridge between the official investigation and Holmes's independent sleuthing. His initial reluctance to fully embrace Holmes's theories adds tension to the narrative. [02:37]

• Lady Brackenstall: Her conflicting accounts and evasive behavior become a focal point of Holmes's suspicions. [05:54] Holmes directly challenges her credibility, suspecting her of deceit.

• Theresa Wright (Maid): Provides crucial testimony that both complicates and aids the investigation. Her loyalty is tested as she navigates the repercussions of her lady's actions. [06:22]

• Captain Jack Croker: The antagonist whose confrontation with Holmes serves as the episode's climax. His emotional turmoil and eventual confession underscore the themes of love, betrayal, and justice. [22:20]

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Key Deductions and Insights

Sherlock Holmes employs his signature deductive reasoning to unravel the mystery. Key insights include:

1. Inconsistencies in the Wine Glasses: Holmes discerns that the presence of three glasses is improbable, suggesting a deliberate attempt to stage the burglary with an additional, fictitious participant. [12:02]

2. Manipulation of the Bell Rope: The altered bell rope indicates foreknowledge of the house's security measures, implying insider involvement. [08:44]

3. Psychological Profiling: By understanding the victims' relationships and motives, Holmes identifies personal vendettas as the true motive behind the murder, rather than a simple burglary gone wrong. [16:14]

4. Strategic Confrontation: Holmes's interaction with Captain Croker demonstrates his prowess in eliciting confessions through psychological tactics rather than overt pressure, ensuring that justice is served without legal complications. [22:36]

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Notable Quotes

• Sherlock Holmes: "The game is afoot." [01:26]
  Signifying the commencement of their investigation.

• Dr. John Watson: "I hope it turns out to be as remarkable as he seems to think." [02:24]
  Expressing skepticism about the case's complexity.

• Sherlock Holmes: "These burglars made a considerable haul at Sydenham a fortnight ago." [11:07]
  Linking the current crime to previous burglaries.

• Theresa Wright: "All Teresa's going to make everything all right." [26:13]
  Highlighting her pivotal role in managing the aftermath of the crime.

• Sherlock Holmes: "I've learned caution now and I had rather play tricks with the law of England than with my own conscience." [19:54]
  Revealing Holmes's moral compass and ethical considerations.

• Captain Jack Croker: "I would do it all again and be proud of it." [22:58]
  Demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his actions.

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Insights and Conclusions

The Adventure of the Abbey Grange masterfully showcases Sherlock Holmes's unparalleled ability to discern truths hidden beneath layers of deception. Through meticulous observation and psychological acumen, Holmes challenges the surface-level explanations, uncovering a more intricate and personal motive behind the crime.

The episode also delves into themes of loyalty, pride, and the complexities of human relationships. Lady Brackenstall's desperation to protect her maid and her underlying distress over her husband's tyranny add depth to the narrative, illustrating how personal struggles can intertwine with criminal activities.

Captain Croker's character arc serves as a testament to the destructive power of unchecked emotions and the lengths to which one might go to preserve personal honor and love. Holmes's resolution of the case, while unorthodox, underscores his commitment to justice over rigid adherence to procedural norms.

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Conclusion

This episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives delivers a compelling rendition of Sherlock Holmes's investigative prowess. With stellar performances by Hobbs and Shelley, listeners are treated to a story rich in suspense, character depth, and intellectual engagement. The Adventure of the Abbey Grange not only entertains but also invites listeners to appreciate the timeless brilliance of Holmes's deductive genius.

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Production Credits:
Based on the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Adapted for BBC Radio by Robin Midgley
Sherlock Holmes portrayed by Carlton Hobbs
Dr. John Watson portrayed by Norman Shelley

Transcript

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[Narrator]

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].

[Sherlock Holmes]

Capital. My dear Watson, let us return to our humble abode.

[Dr. John Watson]

221B Baker street, please. Kevin.

[Narrator]

From London we present the Abbey Grange, a play for radio by Michael Hardwick, based on the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. THE ABBEY Grange it was on a.

[Dr. John Watson]

Bitterly cold and frosty morning during the winter of 1897 that I was awakened by a tugging at my shoulder. Edward Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come, Watson, come. The game is afoot. Not a word into your clothes and come.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ten minutes later, we were both in a cab and rattling through the silent streets on our way to Charing Cross Station. It was not until we consumed some hot tea at the station and taken our places in the Kentish train that we were sufficiently thawed, he to speak and I to listen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Listen to this. From Abbey grange, Marsham, Kent, 3.30am My dear Mr. Holmes, I should be very glad of your immediate assistance in what promises to be a most remarkable case. It is something quite in your line. Except for releasing the lady, I will see that everything is kept exactly as I have found it, but I beg you not to lose an instant, as it is difficult to leave Sir Eustace there. Yours faithfully, Stanley Hopkins.

[Dr. John Watson]

I hope it turns out to be as remarkable as he seems to think.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Inspector Hopkins has called me in seven times and on each occasion his summons has been entirely justified. Our present research appears to be a case of murder.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, you think then that Sir Eustace is dead?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I should say so. I think that friend Hopkins will live up to his reputation and that we shall have an interesting morning.

[Narrator]

Oh, I'm very glad you've come, Mr. Holmes. And you too, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Delighted.

[Narrator]

But I wish I hadn't troubled you. After all, since the lady has come to herself, she's given us so clear an account of the affair that there's nothing much left for us to do. You remember that Lewisham gang of burglars?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What?

[Narrator]

The three Randalls, Father and two sons. It's their Work? Not a doubt of it. They did a job at Sydenham a fortnight ago, was seen and described, but it's a hanging matter this time.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Sir Eustace is dead then?

[Narrator]

Head battered in with a poker.

[Dr. John Watson]

Inspector. Who was he exactly?

[Narrator]

Sir Eustace Brackenstall, one of the richest men in Kent. Lady Brackenstall is in the morning room, Mr. Holmes. I think you best see her and hear her account. Then we'll examine the dining room together.

[Lady Brackenstall]

I have told you all that happened, Inspector Hopkins. Could you not repeat it for me?

[Narrator]

If you could manage, my lady. I should like Mr. Holmes to hear the facts from your own lips.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Well, if you think it necessary.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Last night Sir Eustace retired about half past ten. Only my maid Theresa was up and she was in her room at the top of the house. About 11 I walked round to see that all was right before I went upstairs.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Is it your custom to do so?

[Lady Brackenstall]

It is. As I approached the dining room window, a broad shouldered elderly man stepped through the French window, followed by two others. I stepped back but the fellow struck me a savage blow with his fist over the eye and felled me to the ground. I must have been unconscious for a few minutes. When I came to myself I found that they had torn down the bell rope and it secured me tightly to the open chair which stands at the head of the dining room table. I was so firmly bound that I could not move and a handkerchief round my mouth prevented me from uttering any sound. It was at this instant that my unfortunate husband entered the room.

[Narrator]

Please take your time, your ladyship.

[Lady Brackenstall]

My husband had evidently heard some suspicious sounds and carried his favourite black thorn cudgel in his hand. He rushed at one of the Berkeleys, but another it was the elderly man picked the poker out of the grate and struck him a terrible blow. He fell without groan and never moved again. I fainted once more.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And when you came to your senses, had they gone?

[Lady Brackenstall]

No. I can only have been insensible for a very few minutes. When I opened my eyes I found that they had collected the silver from the sideboard and that they had drawn a bottle of wine which stood there. Each of them had a glass in his hand. They talked together in whispers, then came over and made sure that I was still securely bound. Finally they withdrew, closing the window after them. It was quite a quarter of an hour before I got my mouth free and my screams brought my maid to my assistance. That is really all I can tell you, gentlemen.

[Narrator]

Any questions, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I will not impose Any further tax upon Lady Brackenstor's patience and time. I should be glad to speak to the maid.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Certainly. If you'll be so good as to touch that bell, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

By all means.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have told us, Lady Brackenstall, that one of these three men was elderly. What are the others?

[Lady Brackenstall]

They were young men, clean shaven. They might have been a father with his two sons.

[Narrator]

I see.

[Theresa Wright]

You rang, your ladyship.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Come in Dresa. Mr. Sherlock Holmes wishes to speak to you.

[Theresa Wright]

Yes, my lady.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I should just like to hear your account of last night please.

[Theresa Wright]

Well sir, I heard my mistress scream and down I ran to find her poor lamb tied to a chair and him on the floor lying in his blood. It was enough to drive a woman out of her wits tied there like that. But she never wanted courage, did Ms. Mary Fraser of Adelaide. And Lady Brackenstall of Abbey Grange hasn't learnt new ways. You have questioned her long enough, you gentlemen. And now she's coming to her room just with her old Theresa.

[Dr. John Watson]

I should see that her Ladyship gets some rest.

[Sherlock Holmes]

She's badly in need of it.

[Theresa Wright]

Come along now. Old Theresa will look after you.

[Narrator]

She's been with her all her life. Nursed her as a baby and came with her to England from Australia 18 months ago. Theresa Wright is her name. The kind of maid you don't pick up nowadays, I'm quite sure. And now Mr. Holmes, the dining room I think.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well there's no doubt about the cause of death, Holmes.

[Narrator]

It'll take a savage blow to do this. Here's the poker you see Mr. Holmes quite bent with the blow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He must be a powerful man this Elder Randall.

[Narrator]

He's a rough customer all right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well you should have no difficulty in getting him.

[Narrator]

Not the slightest. It was some idea that he got away to America before now but since we know the gang are here I don't see how they can escape.

[Dr. John Watson]

What beats me is how they could have done so mad a thing knowing that the lady would describe them exactly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

One would have expected that they would have silenced Lady Brackenstall as well. Though if she were senseless they would not take her life. But what about this poor fellow Hopkins?

[Narrator]

From what I hear in spite of all his wealth and title very nearly came our way once or twice. Oh, drink you had. There's a scandal about his drenching her Ladyship's dog with petroleum and setting it on fire. That was only hushed up with difficulty. Great heaven, yes. And he once threw a decanter at that maid to raise a writer. There Was trouble about that between ourselves. It would be a brighter house without him. What are you looking at now, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

This bell rope which they used to tie Lady Brackenstall to the chair.

[Narrator]

What about it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

When they pulled it down from the wall the bell in the kitchen must have rung loud.

[Narrator]

No one could hear it. The servants had all retired.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But how did the burglar know that?

[Narrator]

Ah, exactly, Mr. Holmes, I've asked myself that question. There can be no doubt that this fellow must have known the house and its habits. Therefore he must have been in close league with one of the servants.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, when you have Randall you'll probably find no difficulty in securing his accomplices. Hopkins.

[Narrator]

That's true. I told you I was sorry to have brought you down here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do they take by the way?

[Narrator]

Not much. Only half a dozen articles of plate off the sideboard. Lady Brackenstall thinks that they were so disturbed by the death of Sir Eustace that they didn't ransack the house as they'd intended.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And yet they drank some wine to steady their nerves. I suppose these, these three glasses on the sideboard have not been touched. Hockey?

[Narrator]

No, Mr. Holmes. And the bottle stands there as they left it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let us look at it. Hello, what's this? Lady Brackenstor actually saw the premium drinking, did she not?

[Narrator]

Yes, she was clear about that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, then there's some end of it. What more is to be said? And yet you must admit that the three glasses are very remarkable, Hopkins.

[Narrator]

Remarkable. I don't see, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, well, well let it pass. Perhaps when a man has special knowledge and special powers like my own, it rather encourages him to seek a complex explanation when a simpler one is at hand. Well, good morning, Hopkins. I trust that I shall soon have to congratulate you upon a successful conclusion. Come Watson. I fancy that we may employ ourselves more profitably at home.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, what on earth are you up to now? We get halfway to London and you suddenly insist on dragging me off the train of this suburban hall. Another refreshment room in sight.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Excuse me. My dear fellow, I'm sorry to make you the victim of what may seem a mere whim, but on my life I simply can't leave that case in this condition. Every instinct I possess cries out against it. It's wrong. It's all wrong. I swear that it's wrong.

[Dr. John Watson]

The lady's story was complete and the maid's corroboration was exact. What have you to put against that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Three wine glasses, that's all.

[Dr. John Watson]

Three wine.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now sit down on this bench, Watson, until a train for Chislehurst arrives.

[Dr. John Watson]

Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And allow me to lay the evidence before you imploring you to dismiss from your mind the idea that anything which the maid or her mistress may have said must necessarily be true.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very well, as you wish.

[Sherlock Holmes]

These burglars made a considerable haul at Sydenham a fortnight ago.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Burglars who have done a good stroke of business are as a rule only too glad to enjoy the proceeds in peace and quiet before embarking on another perilous undertaking.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, I suppose that's true.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Again, it's unusual for burglars to operate at so early an hour. It is unusual for them to commit murder when their numbers are sufficient to overpower one man. It is unusual for them to be content with a limited plunder when there is much more within their reach. And finally, I should say that it was very unusual for such men to leave a bottle half empty. How do all these unusuals strike you, Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, Holmes, their cumulative effect is certainly considerable and yet each of them is quite possible in itself.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But now comes the incident of the wine glass. What about the wine glass? Can you see them in your mind's eye?

[Dr. John Watson]

I see them clearly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We're told that three men drank from them. Does that strike you as likely?

[Narrator]

Why not?

[Dr. John Watson]

There was wine in each glass.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exactly. But there was sediment only in one glass. What does that suggest to your mind?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, I should say the last glass to be filled would be most likely to contain sediment.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not at all. That particular bottle was full of it. And it is inconceivable that the first two glasses were clear and the third heavily charged with him. No, I'm inclined to believe that only two glasses were used and the sediment which remained in them both was poured into a third glass to make it appear that three persons had tried. Well, yes, I'm convinced that this is so. But if I've hit upon the true explanation of this one small phenomenon, then in an instant the case rises from the commonplace to be exceedingly remarkable.

[Dr. John Watson]

You mean that Lady Brackenstall and her maid have deliberately lied to us?

[Sherlock Holmes]

If so, it can only mean they have some very strong reason for covering the real criminal. In which case we must arrive at our solution for ourselves without any help from them. And here, Watson, is the Chiselhurst train.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I imagine they'll be surprised to see us return so soon to the Abbey Grange.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, I hope you're satisfied now, Holmes. You've gone over this blessed dining room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

With a fine tooth comb. Almost. It's all Right, Watson, we've got our case.

[Narrator]

What?

[Sherlock Holmes]

One of the most remarkable in our collection. But dear me, how slow witted I've been. How near I came to committing the blunder of my lifetime.

[Dr. John Watson]

You've got your men.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Man, Watson, man. Only one, but a very formidable person, strong as a lion. Witness the blow which bit that poker. 6 foot 3 in height, active as a squirrel, dexterous with his fingers.

[Dr. John Watson]

Where was the clue that has made your mind up?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That bell rope. That, that's. You saw me climb up to examine it. It is cut clean off 3 inches from the top. Yes, but kindly ring for the maid while we reconstruct what happened.

[Dr. John Watson]

All right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now the man needed the rope. He wouldn't tear it down for fear of giving the alarm by ringing the bell. So he sprang up onto the mantelpiece. I could see the impression in the dust and got his knife to bear upon the cord. I could not reach the place by at least three inches, from which I infer that he is at least 3 inches a bigger man than I. Ah, I see we've not yet met our Waterloo, Watson. But this is our Marengo, for it begins in defeat and ends in victory. Ah, Theresa, kindly come in and close the door.

[Theresa Wright]

Yes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Teresa, I am shocked and deeply distressed to learn that on one unhappy occasion the late Sir Eustace Brackenstall actually threw a decanter at you.

[Theresa Wright]

Well, sir, since you raised the matter, I won't deny that it's true. Not for me to speak ill of the dead, mind you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, quite, quite.

[Theresa Wright]

But I heard him call my mistress a name I told him he would not dare to speak. So if her brother had been there. Then it was. He threw it at me. He could have thrown a dozen if he'd left my bonny bird alone. He was always ill treating her, sir, and she was too proud to complain. She won't even tell me all what he did to her. Heaven forgive me that I should speak like this of him now. The sly fiend. What a fiend he was, if ever one walked the earth.

[Sherlock Holmes]

When did she meet him, by the way?

[Theresa Wright]

He arrived in June and she met him in July. They were married in January of last year. What was it you wanted, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, I. I wondered if Lady Brackenstall might feel able to spare me a few moments of her time. If you think she's up to it. Of course.

[Theresa Wright]

I don't doubt she'll see you, sir. She's down in the morning room if you'll follow me. But you won't ask Too much of her, sir. She's gone through. All that flesh and blood will stand.

[Lady Brackenstall]

I do hope you've not come to cross examine me again, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, I will not cause you any unnecessary trouble, Lady Brackenstorm. Believe me, my whole desire is to make things easy for you. But I'm convinced that you are a much tried woman. Now, if you will treat me as a friend and trust me, you may find that I will justify your trust.

[Lady Brackenstall]

What do you want me to do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

To tell me the truth, Mr. Hope. No, no, no, Lady Brackensall, it's no use. You may have heard of any little reputation which I possess. I will stake it all on the fact that your story is an absolute fabrication.

[Theresa Wright]

You are an impudent fellow to talk to my mistress like that. Do you mean to say she has told you a lie?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Have you nothing to tell me, Lady Brackenstall?

[Lady Brackenstall]

I have told you everything.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Think once more. Would it not be better to be frank?

[Lady Brackenstall]

I have told you all I know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm sorry. Come along, Watson.

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[Dr. John Watson]

Now you've rubbed them both up the wrong way, Holmes. Where's it got us?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It may be a hit or it may be a miss. I'll just scribble a note for the lodge keeper to give Stanley Hopkins when he returns. And then I think our next scene of operations must be the shipping office of the Adelaide Southampton Line. It's at the end of Pell Mell, if I remember right.

[Narrator]

Pray be seated, gentlemen. Thank you, grandson. Now, Mr. Holmes, what can I do for you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm making one or two inquiries concerning two ladies who arrived in this country from Adelaide in June of 95.

[Narrator]

June 95?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Well, that should be easy. Here's the ledger for that month.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, a Ms. Fraser and her maid, Ms. Wright.

[Narrator]

Easier still, only one of our vessels arrived that month. The Rock of Gibraltar. Biggest, Best in our features.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ah, yes, quite, quite.

[Narrator]

And here's the passenger list, Miss.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ms. Fraser.

[Narrator]

Fraser. Ah, yes, here it is. Ms. Mary Fraser from Adelaide, traveling with her maid, Mr. Razor Wright. That's what you wanted.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Capital May I ask where the Rock of Gibraltar is now?

[Narrator]

Now? Oh, she's halfway to Australia, somewhere south of Suez.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. I imagine her offices are still much the same as they were 18 months ago.

[Narrator]

Naturally, Mr. Holmes, the company flatters itself that its servants remain with it for their lifetime service. Yes, indeed, very few exceptions.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No exceptions in this particular case. I do.

[Narrator]

Oh, just a moment. Yes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Captain Croker, the master of the Rock of Gibraltar.

[Narrator]

No, no, he was first officer on the voyage you refer to. Oh, he's recently been promoted to captain.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And left the ship.

[Narrator]

Matter of fact, he takes charge of our newest vessel, the Bass Rock, sailing from Southampton in two days time.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Captain Croker, standard seaman, magnificent record.

[Narrator]

Not an officer in the fleet to touch Jack Croker.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, I. I'm much obliged to you for your assistance. And now I think we've trespassed enough upon your valuable time.

[Dr. John Watson]

I'm getting rather lost, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh?

[Dr. John Watson]

You haven't explained what, if anything, our visit to that shipping office achieved. You sent off a telegram which you.

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Didn'T find it necessary to let me.

[Dr. John Watson]

See, and then you drive to Scotland Yard, sit outside in the cab for 10, 10 minutes lost in thought, and then drive back here to 221B without going into the yard at all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's it all about? I couldn't do it, Watson.

[Narrator]

Couldn't do what?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Once that warrant was made out, nothing on earth would save him. Once or twice in my career I feel that I have done more real harm by my discovery of the criminal than ever he had done by his crime. I've learned caution now and I had rather play tricks with the law of England than with my own conscience. Let us know a little more before we act.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, Holmes, really, I. Do come in.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, Hopkins, do come in.

[Narrator]

Your landlady told me to come up, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite right. I was expecting to see you. Take a seat.

[Narrator]

Thank you. Mr. Holmes, I believe you're a wizard.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh? How so?

[Narrator]

How on earth could you know that the stolen silver was at the bottom of the pond in the Abbey Grange grounds?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I didn't know.

[Narrator]

But you told me to try the pond in the note you left with the lodge keeper.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, I just thought it was possible. We were told the men left by the French window almost immediately Outside it there was the pond. Could there be a better hiding place?

[Narrator]

A hiding place? Yes, unless I see it all now. Excellent, Mr. Holmes, but I must tell you I've had a bad setback.

[Dr. John Watson]

Setback, Inspector?

[Narrator]

Yes, Dr. Watson. The Randall gang were arrested in New York this Morning, New York.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dear me, Hopkins, that is certainly rather against your theory that they committed a murder in Kent last night.

[Narrator]

It's fatal, Mr. Holmes, absolutely fatal. Still there are other gangs of free besides the Randalls. Or it may even be some new gang the police have never heard of.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's perfectly possible. Now how about stopping to take dinner with us?

[Narrator]

No, thank you all the same. There's no rest for me till I've got to the bottom of this business.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, goodbye then. Let us know how you get on. As I will.

[Dr. John Watson]

Goodbye. Well, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I expect developments, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

When?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Within a few minutes. I dare say you thought I acted rather badly to Stanley Hopkins just now.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, I trust your judgment.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A very sensible reply. Ah, I hear a footfall upon our stair. The time has come. You will now be present at the last scene of a remarkable little drama. Come in.

[Business Representative]

Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come in. Captain Croker. Take a seat. This is my friend, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

How do you do, Captain?

[Business Representative]

How do you do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You got my telegram?

[Business Representative]

I got your telegram and here I am. What do you wish me to do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

To give me a true account of all that happened at the Abbey Grange last night. A true account mind you, with nothing added and nothing taken off. I know so much already that if you go one inch off the straight I'll blow this police whistle from my window and the affair goes out of my hands forever.

[Business Representative]

No, dammit, I'll chance it. I believe you're a man of your word, but I'll say this first. So far as I'm concerned I regret nothing and I'm afraid of nothing. I would do it all again and be proud of it. I'll tell you my story, gentlemen, and then I'll ask you as man to man, what less I could have done.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A very fair offer. Pray proceed.

[Business Representative]

I expect that you know that I first met Mary Fraser when she was a passenger and I was first officer of the Rock of Gibraltar. From that moment she was the only woman for me. But she was never engaged to me. It was all love on my side and all good companionship and Frederick on hers. When we parted she was a free woman. But I could never again be a free man. Next time I came back from sea I heard of our marriage to this bracken store she was born for all that's beautiful and dainty title and money who could carry them better than she could. I just rejoiced that good luck had come her way, that she hadn't thrown herself away on a penniless sailor. That's how I love Mary Fraser. D'you see?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I understand perfectly. Go on.

[Business Representative]

Well, I never thought to see her again. Last voyage I was promoted and I've been staying since with my people at Sydenham, waiting for my new boat. One day, out in the country, I met Theresa Wright, her maid. She told me about him, about everything. I tell you, gentlemen, it nearly drove me mad, this. This drunken hound daring to raise his hand to her, whose boots he wasn't worthy to lick. Well, from Theresa I learned the ways of the house. Mary used to sit up reading downstairs. I crept round there last night and scratched at the window till she heard me.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Who is it? Who's there?

[Business Representative]

Mary, it's me, Jack.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Jack Crocker.

[Business Representative]

Mary. Let me in.

[Narrator]

I must speak to you.

[Lady Brackenstall]

I can't.

[Business Representative]

You must.

[Lady Brackenstall]

Quickly, then, can you climb through?

[Business Representative]

Just watch me. Now, Amira, I want you to tell me. And the truth, mind. Is it true what I've been hearing from Teresa?

[Narrator]

Does he hit you?

[Business Representative]

Knock you about?

[Lady Brackenstall]

He. Oh, what's the use of pretending? Yes, Jack, whatever you've heard, I'm sure it's no more than the truth.

[Narrator]

God, no.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who are you when you have filthy.

[Narrator]

Hands on my wife? I known something like this was going on behind me. This is sh. Hello, Stumpy. I'll serve your fuzzy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Touch her once again and I'll see about that.

[Business Representative]

Now then, you brute.

[Theresa Wright]

What's happening?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who?

[Business Representative]

He was striking her with his stick to razor. He went for me. I had this poker, I think. I think he must be.

[Theresa Wright]

Yes, he's dead. And good riddance at last.

[Business Representative]

Well, what are we going to do?

[Theresa Wright]

Now listen to me, Jack Croker. What's happened tonight is the best thing that could have happened, for my poor lamb's sake. But we must work quickly. It's got to seem as if burglars did this.

[Business Representative]

What?

[Theresa Wright]

You must do exactly as I say. We'd better hide some of the silver and leave the French window open as if they'd escaped that way. And we'll tie my mistress to that chair. Look, that bell rope, get it down. We'll use that while you're doing it. I'm going to tell her the tale she must tell when all this comes out. Now hurry, We've no time to waste. There, there, there, my poor dove. All Teresa's going to make everything all right.

[Business Representative]

I opened a bottle of wine and Mary and I took a glass of peace. To calm us, Theresa suggested pouring some off into a third glass to look as if some gang of three had done it. Well, that's the whole truth of it, gentlemen, if it costs me my neck.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Captain Croker, I believe every word you've said, for you hardly told me a thing I didn't know. No one but an acrobat or a sailor could have gone up to that bell rope and no one but a sailor could have tied the knots with which it was fastened to the chair. Only once had this lady been brought into contact with sailors and that was on her voyage. And it was someone of her own class of life, since she was trying hard to shield him and so showing that she loved him. Look here, Captain, we'll do this in due form of law. You are the prisoner, Watson? Yes. You are a British jury and I never met a man who was more eminently fitted to represent one. I am the judge now. Gentlemen of the jury, you have heard the evidence. Do you find the prisoner guilty or not guilty?

[Dr. John Watson]

Not guilty, my lord.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You are acquitted, Captain Croker. So long as the law does not find some other victim, you are safe from me. Come back to this lady in a year. And may her future and yours justify us in the judgment which we have pronounced this night.

[Narrator]

That was the Abbey Grange by Michael Hardwick Based on the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Sherlock Holmes was played by Carlton Hobbs and Dr. Watson by Norman Shelley. Production for the BBC was by Robin Midgley.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It.