Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Genuine Guarnarius 11/16/1946 (Conway & Bruce)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Genuine Guarnarius (11/16/1946) (Conway & Bruce)
Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
May 1, 2026

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Episode Overview

This classic Sherlock Holmes radio episode, “The Adventure of the Genuine Guarnarius,” brings listeners into a world of intrigue, music, blackmail, and murder in Paris. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, visiting France after handling a delicate diplomatic affair, become entangled in a web involving a priceless violin, a famed violinist, blackmail threats, and a seemingly impossible murder. The episode is rich with period atmosphere, vivid characters, and Holmesian deduction, showcasing the power of observation and the deadly potential of music.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Progression

1. Diplomatic Beginnings and Social Intrigue

[00:47–03:28]

• Dr. Watson reminisces about his and Holmes’s many cases and the dignitaries they aided.
• The conversation lands on a certain “Mr. Edwards” (a disguised royal). His gratitude sparks a story connected to Paris, concerning a dancer named Frou Frou and an affair resolved discreetly by Holmes.
• Joseph Bell (the host) cues the audience for a new tale: "The Adventure of the Genuine Guarnarius."

2. A Reception at the British Embassy

[03:28–06:35]

• Holmes and Watson attend a lavish reception at the British Embassy in Paris, hosted by Sir Hubert and Lady Ashley.
• Holmes observes the guests, noting Lady Ashley’s many admirers:
  "When you look at a beautiful woman you see only beauty... I notice her elderly husband, her many gallant admirers, and I think what a motive for murder." — Sherlock Holmes [04:06]
• Lady Ashley introduces Holmes to Jacques Maribo, a respected violin maker, and to Monsieur Drenko, a renowned violinist.
• Drenko privately approaches Holmes with a blackmail issue concerning the dancer Frou Frou and some indiscreet letters.

3. The Blackmail at Maxim’s Club

[07:53–09:39]

• Holmes and Watson visit Maxim’s nightclub to confront Frou Frou about the letters.
• Holmes, using knowledge of her legal vulnerability and political connections, persuades her to return Drenko’s letters and cease blackmail: "Assuming, of course, that you return at once all the letters that were written to you by Monsieur Drenko and that you cease from molesting him in any way." — Sherlock Holmes to Frou Frou [08:54]

4. Drenko’s Apparent Suicide

[10:04–15:58]

• The next morning, Holmes and Watson visit Drenko’s hotel to report success. Instead, they're met by Maribo, who has discovered Drenko dead in his room, apparently from cyanide poisoning.
• The painter in the corridor confirms no one entered or exited during the time of death. A suicide note is found: "It is intolerable. I utterly refuse to endure it any longer. Signed Mihai Drenko." — Read by Holmes [12:14]
• Inspector Bernard accepts suicide as the case’s solution, but Holmes is not convinced, suspecting murder due to the out-of-tune violin: "Perhaps, Inspector, you may then be able to explain why a world-famous violinist like Drenko should do his practicing on a violin that is most unmistakably out of tune." — Sherlock Holmes [13:57]

5. Holmes’s Doubts and Investigation

[15:51–19:48]

• Holmes claims Drenko’s death is murder, not suicide, based on the violin’s condition.
• Inspector Bernard gives Holmes 24 hours to prove his case.
• Holmes and Watson return to the Embassy to question Lady Ashley, who faints at the news of Drenko’s death. Holmes interprets this as relief, not shock.
• Sir Hubert Ashley reveals that Lady Ashley was under Drenko’s power due to a past romance and possible blackmail. He expresses gratitude for Drenko’s demise but pledges co-operation with justice.

6. The Murder Method Unveiled

[20:12–24:09]

• Holmes rejects Frou Frou as a suspect and, inspired by the vibration of a glass from violin music, visits Maribo’s violin shop.
• While Holmes is testing a priceless Guarnarius violin, he “collapses.”
• Maribo urges Watson to get the police, but Holmes reveals the collapse is a ruse to draw out Maribo’s confession: "I took the trouble to dissect the violin you gave me and then played one of the others here to lure you in." — Sherlock Holmes [24:09]

7. The Ingenious Crime Explained

[24:10–26:32]

• Holmes explains the murder method:

  • Maribo had constructed a violin for Drenko with a glass vial of cyanogen gas (deadly and likened to cyanide poison) inside, positioned to shatter and release the gas when Drenko played a high note.
  • The gas, released into Drenko’s face via the violin’s F-holes, killed him almost instantly.
  • Maribo had swapped the fatal violin for another and planted the suicide note, forged from a letter about an “intolerable” instrument.

• Holmes addresses Maribo’s motive—protecting Lady Ashley from blackmail due to her past with Drenko.

8. Culprit Confronted and Arrested

[26:33–27:17]

• Maribo tries to destroy evidence with a vial of gas, but Inspector Bernard (disguised as a bearded customer) intervenes and arrests him. "You seem to be overlooking this dissected violin on your desk with which you attempted to murder me. I fancy that the sample of your handiwork... will offer ample [proof]." — Sherlock Holmes [25:42] "As you noticed when you commented on his beard and cloak, Watson, the Inspector’s tastes in disguise are a trifle flamboyant." — Sherlock Holmes, about Bernard [26:13]
• Holmes notes his one regret: he took the case for Drenko and never got a fee.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• On Observation:
  "When you look at a beautiful woman you see only beauty... I notice her elderly husband, her many gallant admirers, and I think what a motive for murder." — Sherlock Holmes [04:06]
• On Out-of-Tune Violin:
  "Why a world-famous violinist like Drenko should do his practicing on a violin that is most unmistakably out of tune." — Sherlock Holmes [13:57]
• On Holmes's Deduction:
  "Maribo had put a thin glass vial containing cyanogen... When Drenko reached the proper high note, the extremely thin glass vial cracked under the impact of the sympathetic vibration, releasing the deadly fumes through the F holes in the violin." — Sherlock Holmes [25:05]
• Inspector Bernard’s Disguise:
  "As you noticed when you commented on his beard and cloak, Watson, the Inspector’s tastes in disguise are a trifle flamboyant." — Sherlock Holmes [26:13]

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Important Timestamps

• 03:28: Holmes and Watson attend the Embassy reception.
• 05:39: Drenko requests Holmes’s help with blackmail.
• 08:16: Holmes and Watson confront Frou Frou.
• 10:17: Drenko's body discovered; apparent suicide.
• 13:57: Holmes deduces murder due to violin being out of tune.
• 17:00: Holmes given 24 hours to prove murder.
• 18:06: Lady Ashley faints at news of Drenko’s murder.
• 21:00: Holmes inspired by musical vibrations.
• 24:09: Holmes lays trap for Maribo at the violin shop.
• 25:05: Detailed revelation of murder method.
• 26:00: Inspector Bernard’s intervention.

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Tone and Style

The episode maintains the elegant, erudite banter and classical mystery tone that defines Sherlock Holmes adaptations from the Golden Age of Radio. It features dry wit (especially Holmes's sardonic asides), suspenseful deduction, and vivid period setting. Dramatic confrontations are delivered with tension and flair.

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Conclusion

“The Adventure of the Genuine Guarnarius” delivers a classic Holmes tale marrying the worlds of music, high society, and crime. With clever deductions, an ingenious murder method hinging on musical resonance, and a dramatic showdown, this episode is a prime example of why Sherlock Holmes stories have enthralled radio audiences for decades.

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For those who missed the episode, this summary captures all major twists, colorful dialogue, and Holmesian logic, preserving the essence and flair of the original broadcast.

Transcript

[Joseph Bell]

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]. 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 for our weekly visit to Dr. Watson, genial friend and colleague of the great Sherlock holmes. Good evening, Dr. Watson. I trust I'm not intruding.

[Dr. Watson]

Not at all my dear fellow, not at all. Sit down won't you?

[Joseph Bell]

Thank you. You know Dr. Watson, I've been struck by the remarkably large number of signed photographs of titled personages and notables that ornament the walls of your mementos of your active career, I presume?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, though I must admit most of them are clients of Sherlock Holmes rather than grateful patients of mine.

[Joseph Bell]

Well this picture for instance. Naturally I recognize the photograph of the late Royal.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no names Mr. Bell, I beg you. Holmes and I always referred to the gentleman in question merely as Mr. Edwards.

[Joseph Bell]

And what did you and Mr. Holmes do to cause his Royal. I beg your pardon, Mr. Edwards. To inscribe his photograph in such affectionate gratitude?

[Dr. Watson]

Nothing of any great importance I assure you. Merely that Mr. Edwards had become a trifle entangled, shall we say, with a little dancer at Maxims in Paris, a young lady rejoicing in the appellation of Frou Frou. Quite a delightful little bit of fluff too.

[Joseph Bell]

I gather that Sherlock Holmes settled the matter to Mr. Edwards complete satisfaction very

[Dr. Watson]

easily and very discreetly. But it led us into one of the most curious and singular affairs of Sherlock Holmes career. And one which I don't believe would ever have been solved had Holmes not been a distinguished amateur on the violin. I call it the adventure of the genuine Guarnerius.

[Joseph Bell]

Sounds intriguing Dr. Watson, but if you don't mind a momentary interruption.

[Dr. Watson]

Not at all, Mr. Bell, go ahead.

[Joseph Bell]

Men, there's a famous saying about locking the barn door after the horse has been stolen. Well the same applies to the hair once bald. Bald forever they tell us. But you can make the most of the hair you've got and you can't begin too early. That's why I want to tell you about Kremel hair tonic. Kremel contains very special hair grooming ingredients found in no other hair tonic. Kremel makes the hair stay better groomed longer with that natural. Greatly desired. He man look never greasy, never stink. But Kremel does lots more than just keep hair looking handsome. A massage with Kremel actually helps stimulate circulation in the surface of the scalp. Your scalp always feels so alive, so invigorated after applying Kremel. This highly specialized hair tonic also has an excellent lubricating effect on a dry scalp. It makes dry, brittle hair that breaks and falls feels softer and more pliable. So men buy a bottle of Kremel Hair Tonic at any drug counter. You'll be delighted with its extra advantages. K R E M L Kremel hair tonic. Now Dr. Watson, how about the adventure of the genuine Guarnerius?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, the British Ambassador to France, Sir Hubert Ashley, had invited Holmes and myself to a reception at the Embassy in Paris in order to thank us both for successfully concluding the rather delicate affair of Mr. Edwards. The ballroom was a blaze of light. The guests were dancing. By Jove Holmes, have you ever seen anyone more attractive than our host's wife? I must say that Lady Ashley is really the finest type of English beauty.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Sometimes Watson, I envy you the directness of your mind.

[Dr. Watson]

What do you mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

When you look at a beautiful woman you see only beauty.

[Dr. Watson]

Well what on earth would you expect me to see?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In the case of Lady Ashley, my dear fellow, I notice her elderly husband, her many gallant admirers, and I think what a motive for murder.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh really, Holmes.

[Lady Ashley]

Ah, Mr. Holmes. I trust our guest of honor is enjoying himself.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very much Indeed.

[Lady Ashley]

Lady Ashley, Mr. Holmes. Dr. Watson. May I introduce a very dear friend, Monsieur Jacques Merivault, who has known me more years than I care to remember.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Yes, I think I can claim to be Lady Ashley's most devoted cavalier. Having first made her acquaintance when she was just over two hours old. She wept bitterly the moment she saw

[Lady Ashley]

me but I've been trying to make up to him for it ever since.

[Sherlock Holmes]

During the time we're in Paris, Monsieur Merrigo, I've been promising myself the pleasure of a visit to your famous music shop.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Should be honored Monsieur Holmes. I've heard of course that you play

[Sherlock Holmes]

the violin merely as the various amateur. Incidentally I'm looking forward eagerly to hearing Monsieur Drenko play this evening, Lady Ashley. I was unfortunately out of London during the only recital he gave this season.

[Lady Ashley]

He's a great artist.

[Dr. Watson]

He comes from one of those little countries down the right hand corner of the map, doesn't he? I always heard the fellows a bit of a banner.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have an opportunity to judge at once Watson. Our host is approaching with a gentleman in question in tow.

[Monsieur Drenko]

Ah, Holmes, There you are.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Mr. Drenko's been asking to meet you. Monsieur Drenko, Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do? Holmes, Hubert.

[Lady Ashley]

If you'll excuse me, I must see to our other guests. Until later, Mr. Holmes. Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, yes indeed, of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dr. Watson and I are looking forward to hearing you play, Monsieur Drinkle.

[Monsieur Drenko]

I always enjoy an appreciative audience. Tell me, Mr. Holmes, might I speak with you alone for a moment?

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Come along, Mary Verb, you promised me your opinion on that. 83 champagne.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's a sound vintage, but I find it right. Well, Mr. Drinkholm?

[Monsieur Drenko]

I said alone. Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have no secrets from Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Very well then.

[Monsieur Drenko]

It so happens that I find myself in a slight predicament. I thought that with all your experience

[Sherlock Holmes]

you might advise me as a social favor, Monsieur Drenko.

[Dr. Watson]

Gladly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If of course you would like to come to the tea at my hotel tomorrow and bring your violin to entertain my guests.

[Monsieur Drenko]

I beg your pardon?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, I understand, Mr. Holmes.

[Monsieur Drenko]

We professionals must each respect the others metier. Must we?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It would be preferable, yes.

[Dr. Watson]

I told you what sort of fellow he was.

[Monsieur Drenko]

Nevertheless, Mr. Holmes, I still ask for your advice. And I will expect to pay the customary fee. You see, I find myself a trifle involved. Only a harmless flirtation, of course. But I did write one or two indiscreet letters to one of the girls at Maxim. Now the greedy little thing threatens blackmail.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hardly an unusual situation, Mr. Drinkoff.

[Monsieur Drenko]

For myself, for my reputation, I do not care, you understand. An artist is an artist. But there is my wife at home. I must think of her.

[Joseph Bell]

Naturally.

[Dr. Watson]

Thinking of her. A trifle late, aren't you, old man?

[Monsieur Drenko]

So you concede there might be unpleasant results. If true fruit of Maxims.

[Dr. Watson]

You know her, we're not unacquainted with a young person.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Eholm, from my rather brief acquaintance with her, I think the matter may be settled rather simply.

[Monsieur Drenko]

Ah, I shall be happy if you

[Dr. Watson]

will handle me, sir. Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please? The seer Drenko, whom we're all very

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

happy to welcome here this evening, will

[Dr. Watson]

now give us the pleasure of his incomparable music. You are.

[Mademoiselle Frou Frou]

Gentlemen, Madame Frou Frou's dressing room is right here.

[Lady Ashley]

Oh, Papa.

[Dr. Watson]

I say Holmes, did you notice that girl just passed? The one wearing just those little, little figmajigs?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite. I also notice, Watson, that backstage at Maxim seems to be one place where you not only see but also observe very closely.

[Lady Ashley]

Oh, hello.

[Mademoiselle Frou Frou]

Hello, Monsieur Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening.

[Mademoiselle Frou Frou]

I have not expected to see you in that cute little Dr. Watson again so soon. But perhaps this time it is pleasure, huh? Not business.

[Dr. Watson]

Not, Mademoiselle.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mademoiselle. Frou Frou. It was only because I thought the gentleman we have agreed to refer to as Mr. Edwards was at least as culpable as you that I persuaded the French police not to prosecute you in that matter of his mother's jewels.

[Mademoiselle Frou Frou]

But, Monsieur Holmes, that little matter. We have settled it, have we not?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The charge is still pending, mademoiselle. And that a word from me could be followed up.

[Mademoiselle Frou Frou]

But why should.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I also happen to know that the Marsovian Embassy is most curious regarding the attraction which brings Prince Danilo so frequently to Paris? That also does not concern me at the moment. Assuming, of course, that you return at once all the letters that were written to you by Monsieur Drenko and that you cease from molesting him in any way.

[Mademoiselle Frou Frou]

Oh, mech compatre bien. Oh, I see. Well, Monsieur Holmes, since you have put it so convincingly, I am rather tired of listening to a soulfully played violin. Monsieur Drenkou may have his letters back.

[Lady Ashley]

Here they are.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you, mademoiselle. I knew you were a sensible girl. Good night.

[Dr. Watson]

Good night. And now what?

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now for a good night's rest. And in the morning we can report to Mr. Drinkel the satisfactory solution of what was perhaps our simplest problem.

[Dr. Watson]

I hope you charge him a stiff fee, Holmes. I still say that the fellow's a bounder.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good morning. I think Monsieur Drinko is expecting us, Mr. Holmes. And Dr. Watson. What's the number of his room?

[Monsieur Maribo]

Please send a message to the police. Oh, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Medical. What's the matter, Mr. Drenko?

[Dr. Watson]

We're on our way up to see him.

[Monsieur Maribo]

He's dead. Killed himself.

[Dr. Watson]

What? Good heavens.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come, Maribo, take us up to his room.

[Dr. Watson]

The man's been dead for more than an hour, Holmes. Yes. No, not more. More than half an hour. Closer to an hour, I should think.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. Marivo, would you please ask that chap we passed, the one who was painting the hall, to step in here for a moment?

[Monsieur Maribo]

But of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Curious. I wonder what could have been Drenko's motive in committing suicide?

[Monsieur Maribo]

It is a phantom, Monsieur Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, yes. Tell me, have you been working there all the morning? For over two hours, in other words. And were you working constantly in sight of this door?

[Inspector Bernard]

Absolutely, monsieur. I heard the gentleman in here practicing the violin for a little while. But you stopped almost an hour ago.

[Dr. Watson]

That puts the time of death just about what I thought, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you saw no one enter or leave this room during the entire time?

[Inspector Bernard]

No one? Oh, except five minutes ago this gentleman went into the room. A few seconds later he came running out calling for the police.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. Your statement has been very clear. You may go now. But better not leave the hotel. No doubt the police will want to question you.

[Monsieur Maribo]

I have never had such a shock in my life, Monsieur Holmes. I came up to deliver a new violin the drinko had ordered. And when I opened the door and saw him lying there with his face all twisted up in agony.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, the common appearance of cyanide poisoning. Not very pretty, I'll admit. You'll note the characteristic odor of bitter almonds, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, indeed. And here's the empty bottle.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite the poison label on it removes any possibility of accident.

[Dr. Watson]

Nobody could possibly have got in or out of the window. The sheer drop of four stories to the street.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Look, Monsieur Holmes, this torn piece of paper, I found it here on the desk. It's his suicide note.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Evidently written under the stress of considerable emotion to judge from the writing. Hmm. It is intolerable. I utterly refuse to endure it any longer. Signed Mihai Drenko.

[Monsieur Maribo]

It's his handwriting, Monsieur Holmes. I'd swear to it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, unquestionably the perfect setting for suicide,

[Dr. Watson]

there's no doubt about it.

[Inspector Bernard]

Well, Monsieur Holmes, a pleasure to meet you again. Even if under such unfortunate circumstances.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How are you, Inspector?

[Dr. Watson]

Nice to see you again, my dear fellow.

[Inspector Bernard]

Thank you, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dr. Watson and I have been carrying on for you until your arrival.

[Inspector Bernard]

Oh, thank you. And may I pick your brains to

[Sherlock Holmes]

ask what you have learned? Maribo here discovered the body only a few minutes ago when he arrived to deliver a violin Drenko had ordered. The painter, you'll find out in the hall, has had the room under observation all morning and will assure you that no one else entered or left it.

[Dr. Watson]

And the fellow stopped practicing about an hour before sets the time of death pretty accurately. Here's the suicide note, Inspector. I'm afraid we're presenting you with rather an open and shut case.

[Inspector Bernard]

Well, Dr. Watson, a hard working officer like myself welcomes the absence of any mystery.

[Dr. Watson]

And here's the violin that Drenko was practicing on.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let me see it, Watson. Odd. Very odd indeed.

[Inspector Bernard]

You mean odd that Drenko should be practicing the violin until just before he killed himself?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That fact by itself would merely be singular. But listen to the violin on which he was practicing.

[Dr. Watson]

Sounds all right to me.

[Inspector Bernard]

I confess, Monsieur Holmes, that I find no mystery in a man playing the violin just before he killed himself.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perhaps, Inspector, you may then be able to explain why a world famous violinist Like Drinkel should do his practicing on a violin that is most unmistakably out of tune.

[Inspector Bernard]

But how should I know what a man would do just before he commits suicide?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Suicide? This isn't suicide, Inspector. This is murder.

[Joseph Bell]

Men, once you get bald, there's nothing you can do about it. Science tells us it's impossible to grow hair on bald heads, but you can make the most of the hair you've got. And let me tell you, there's nothing better than Kremel Hair Tonic to do it in the first place. Kremel does a marvelous job of hair grooming. It keeps every lock neatly in place, yet never looks greasy or sticky. Kremel contains very special hair grooming ingredients, the like of which have never been duplicated in any other hair tonic. But Kremel does lots more than just keep hair in place. A massage with Kremel helps stimulate circulation of the blood in the surface of the skin. Scalp. Your scalp feels so clean, so alive, so invigorated. At the same time it removes loose dandruff. And if your hair is so dry and brittle that it breaks and falls, remember, Kremel actually helps condition the hair in that it leaves it feeling so much softer and more pliable. It also has a grand lubricating effect on a dry scalp. So remember, men, make the most of the hair you've got. Use Kremel Hair Tonic daily. K R E M L Kremel Hair Tonic. Now, Dr. Watson, what happened in that hotel room when Sherlock Holmes told Inspector Bernard that Drinko, the violinist, had been murdered and had not committed suicide?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, naturally, Inspector Bernard was rather surprised. A matter of fact, it seemed to me that he was a bit huffy about it all.

[Inspector Bernard]

But Monsieur Holmes, you cannot fly in the face of all the evidence we see before us. The bottle of poison clearly labelled this suicide note, unquestionably in his own handwriting. Dr. Watson's medical evidence that the man had been dead at least an hour. And the final confirmation of the man painting in the oil who tells us that no one entered or left this room until a few minutes ago. And against all this, Mr. Holmes, what have you to offer a violin that is out of tune? Ah, zittaler.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nevertheless, Inspector, it is the crux of the entire case.

[Dr. Watson]

But Holmes, how can you tell what a fellow like Drenko would have done?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can assure you, Watson, that he would have done almost anything in the world except practice on this violin. No, Inspector, this was murder. I'll stake my reputation on it.

[Inspector Bernard]

It is only your reputation, Monsieur Holmes, that Makes me hesitate at all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Give me 24 hours in which to establish how this murder was done and who did it.

[Inspector Bernard]

Since you ask it, Monsieur Holmes. Very well.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. Come Watson, we have some busy hours ahead of us. Good day, gentlemen.

[Dr. Watson]

Good day. Good day. And where are we off to in such a hurry, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The British Embassy.

[Dr. Watson]

The Embassy? Why on earth?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You evidently failed to notice during last night's reception that Lady Ashley left us very abruptly the moment Drenko joined our party. Her manner to him venged on rudeness and that's so unlike Lady Ashley that I feel that an inquiry in that quarter may bear interesting fruit.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

May I ask, Mr. Holmes, the purpose behind this unexpected visit?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In just a moment, Sir Hubert. I'd like to have Lady Ashley present.

[Lady Ashley]

Yes, Hubert. My maid said you wanted to talk. Why, Mr. Holmes. Dr. Watson, I didn't know you were here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid our visit concerns a professional matter, Lady Ashley. You see, Dr. Watson and I have just come from the room of the late Monsieur Drinko.

[Lady Ashley]

The late Monsieur Drinko? I don't understand.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Drenko has been murdered. Lady Ashley. Oh, quick Watson, catch her. Cynthia.

[Dr. Watson]

She's quite all right, nothing but a faint. If you will just ring for your wife's maid, Sir Hubert.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

As I get at once.

[Dr. Watson]

I must say, Holmes, you certainly broke the news rather brutally. She took it pretty hard.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nonsense, Watson. What caused her to faint was relief. That was my object. I had to find out what her reaction would be.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Here, Annette, you and Mary help Lady Ashley up to her room and put her to bed.

[Dr. Watson]

Keep her quiet. A cup of hot tea will do her no harm when she comes round.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Now gentlemen, if you'll excuse me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm sorry, Sir Hubert, but I must ask you to remain here with us for a few moments. I don't understand, Sir Hubert. Lady Ashley's reaction to the news of Drinko's death was a good deal more pronounced than might be expected in the circumstances.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

I haven't the faintest idea what you're trying to insinuate.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I insinuate nothing. I merely state facts. Would you prefer that I question her or will you tell me what lies in back of all this?

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Very well, Mr. Holmes, but I should like to spare my wife as much as possible.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My only interest is in any light that she might be able to shed on the matter.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Cynthia is a very young and very beautiful woman. Before we were married she had, well, how shall I put it, fallen under the spell of this man Drenko. I asked her no questions, but I know that he continued to have some Strange hold over her. I had the impression that she hated seeing him and that he was forcing his presence on her on those occasions when he was a guest in my house.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes. I still don't believe anyone killed a fellow, but if someone did, it sounds like a good riddance.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Unfortunately, Watson, we are not concerned with the equities of the murder, but with its solution. Thank you, Sir Hubert, you've been extremely helpful.

[Sir Hubert Ashley]

Well, justice must be done, Mr. Holmes. But if ever I wish that your great powers might fail, it is now. I have no hesitation whatsoever in saying that I am infinitely grateful to the murder of that swine drinker.

[Dr. Watson]

I say, Holmes, will you join me in a cup of tea?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No tea, thanks. I'm rather trusting to the inspiration of music to assist me in resolving some of the more puzzling features of this case.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, at least you can't complain of a scarcity of suspects. First of all, Sir Hubert, for obvious reasons, possibly Lady Ashley. Great Scott, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's the matter? Tea too hot?

[Dr. Watson]

No, but have you thought of the possibility that Frou Frou might have killed Drenko? After all, she might have been mad in love with him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Had occurred to me, but I discarded it.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, discarded it. By Jove. Look at this glass here on the table. It's positively vibrating from that high note.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A not uncommon phenomenon, as you must know. Certain objects vibrate in harmony with certain notes. Watson, get your coat. We promised to pay a visit to Marivo's shop. I think this would be an ideal time to discharge that obligation.

[Dr. Watson]

Dingy little place, I must say. Founded 1821, huh? Looks as though they hadn't washed the windows since.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But full of priceless treasures. As Marlow said, infinite riches in a little room.

[Dr. Watson]

I say, where's Maribel?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't like the look of that customer over there. The one with that bushy back beard and theatrical cloak.

[Dr. Watson]

He looks like one of those bombs ring fellows. What you call them? Nihilists.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You must remember, Watson, that music appeals to oddly assorted people. Professor Moriarty, after all, knows no peer in his interpretation of certain of the bach fugues.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Well, Mrs. Holmes and Dr. Watson, or is this other gentleman waiting?

[Dr. Watson]

I'm in no hurry.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's no wonder the fame of your shop is worldwide, Monsieur Maribo. I see you have some remarkable instruments.

[Monsieur Maribo]

You see about you the fruits of a lifetime of devotion to the violin. I must confess, Mr. Holmes, that it pains me every time I sell one of my treasures.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can well believe it.

[Monsieur Maribo]

And have you made any further progress toward a solution of Drenko's?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Death, I feel safe in saying that my investigation has gleaned a few pertinent facts.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Would it be indiscreet for me to ask what they are?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not at all. You yourself were present when I made the curious discovery regarding Drenko's violin being out of tune. And only a short time ago, while I happened to be playing my violin, Dr. Watson made a remark which threw further light on the case. Didn't you, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, yes, yes, yes, yes.

[Monsieur Maribo]

I don't know what kind of a violin you possess, Monsieur Holmes, but I'm sure you'll appreciate one magnificent example that

[Inspector Bernard]

I'd like you to try.

[Monsieur Maribo]

A Guarnerius, the equal of any Strad I've ever seen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid it would be far beyond the reach of my pointers.

[Monsieur Maribo]

But you at least owe yourself the pleasure, the great experience of playing it.

[Dr. Watson]

Here it is. Isn't it beautiful?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exquisite. If the tone's as mellow as that varnish.

[Monsieur Maribo]

But of course. Why don't you take it into my private office and try it? No one will disturb you here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. I've never had the good fortune to test a guarner.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Dr. Watson, while Monsieur Holmes is amusing himself, perhaps you'll be interested in one of these bows.

[Dr. Watson]

Bows? Oh, yes, I think with him.

[Monsieur Maribo]

But there's more to it than that. There is only one family in all Italy, Dr. Watson, that possesses the great secret of making a bowl like this one.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, it's all very fascinating, Mr. Melibou. But Holmes must have made up his mind if he likes that fiddle by now. And I know he wants to ask you some questions. He told me that. Good heavens. What on earth? He's lying on the floor. He must have fainted.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Afraid he's dead. Quick, Dr. Watson, go for the police.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And give you a chance to plant a bottle of cyanide by my side. Oh, no, Watson. Stay here and listen to Maribel confess how he murdered Drenko. You're alive. No thanks to you. I took the trouble to dissect the violin you gave me and then played one of the others here to lure you in.

[Dr. Watson]

He killed Dranco. But the suicide note.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Elementary, my dear Watson. I would hazard a guess that it was torn from the end of a letter to Maribel referring to an unsatisfactory instrument which was intolerable and which he couldn't endure any longer.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes Malibu was nowhere near Drenko when he died.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Malibu had left a very oddly constructed violin with Drenko, presumably last night. Knowing that it was Drenko's habit to practice each morning from 8 till 10. Inside the violin, in place of a sound bar, Maribou had put a thin glass vial containing cyanogen, the lethal gas, which is identical in odor and effects with the cyanide. Good heavens. When Drencho reached the proper high note, the extremely thin glass vial cracked under the impact of the sympathetic vibration, releasing the deadly fumes through the F holes in the violin.

[Dr. Watson]

The violin that Maribel was delivering to Drenker when he discovered the corpse.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Precisely, Watson. He merely left that one by the body, planted the note and carried off the fatal weapon and all proof of the crime in his now empty case. He made only one error. He neglected to tune the violin he left.

[Dr. Watson]

Amazing, Holmes.

[Monsieur Maribo]

Listen very patiently, Monsieur Holmes, to your ingenious and utterly imaginary reconstruction. I suppose you can furnish a motive too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'd prefer to spare Lady Ashley the ordeal, Maribel. But I have no doubt that it was in you she confided that Drenko had been blackmailing her on the strength of their earlier romance.

[Monsieur Maribo]

But to convict a man of murder, you need something more than words. You need proof.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You seem to be overlooking this dissected violin on your desk with which you attempted to murder me. I fancy that the sample of your handiwork with the vial of gas affixed therein will offer ample.

[Monsieur Maribo]

You never send me to the guillotine, kill myself first.

[Inspector Bernard]

But I'm going to take you with me.

[Dr. Watson]

Stop. That vial, mademoiselle. Precisely what I intend to.

[Monsieur Maribo]

To drop it and release the fumes.

[Inspector Bernard]

They will put a speedy end to all three of us. I've got your Mr. Evo. Give me that vial if you don't want a broken arm.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah.

[Joseph Bell]

There. Much better.

[Dr. Watson]

Good heavens, it's an artist. I mean, Inspector Bernard.

[Sherlock Holmes]

As you noticed when you commented on his beard and cloak, Watson, the Inspector's tastes in disguise are a trifle flamboyant.

[Inspector Bernard]

And now, Monsieur Holmes, I must extend my thanks to you on behalf of this shooktick.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not at all, Inspector. Your promptness in acting in response to my message undoubtedly saved Watson's life. And mine. Thank you.

[Inspector Bernard]

Oh, no, Monsieur Holmes, thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, well, have it your way, Inspector.

[Inspector Bernard]

And now, Marie, come along.

[Dr. Watson]

Phew. Rather too close a shave to suit me, Holmes. I say that fellow Madiver was very ingenious.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite. You know, Watson, I have one bitter regret concerning this case.

[Dr. Watson]

Regret?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I find that I have, despite all my protests, ended by acting for Drenko without a fee. After all.

[Joseph Bell]

Just a moment. Dr. Watson will tell us something about next week's story. But first girl. Some of the most beautiful women in the world are Powers models. And one of their outstanding characteristics is their shining bright hair. Now, here's how they keep it shining.

[Lady Ashley]

Powers models use Cremel Shampoo. This amazing beautifying shampoo has been especially developed to actually glamour bathe each tiny strand of hair, revealing all its natural glossy luster.

[Joseph Bell]

My wife says Kremel shampoo is wonderful for washing children's hair. How about that?

[Lady Ashley]

Oh, yes, it would be because there are no harsh caustics or chemicals in Kremel shampoo. And its luxurious active foam penetrates right to the scalp and removes all loose dandruff as well as the dirt.

[Joseph Bell]

Girls, if you could only see how Powers models hair fairly radiates glossy highlights. I'm sure you'd want to try Kremel shampoo right away. You can get a bottle at any drug counter. K R E M L Kremel shampoo. Now, Dr. Watson, what about next week?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, now, let me see. Next week I think I'll tell you about the adventure of the Sally Martin.

[Joseph Bell]

The Sally Martin?

[Dr. Watson]

She was a boat, Mr. Bell, a luxurious yacht. Holmes and I entered the case when her owner was found lying dead in his bunk with a knife stuck between his ribs.

[Joseph Bell]

Tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure was suggested by an incident in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story. The illustrious client, 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 adventure of the Sally Martin. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.