Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Speckled Band (Hobbs & Shelley)

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio

Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Speckled Band (Hobbs & Shelley)
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, where the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes, alongside his loyal friend Dr. John Watson, unravels one of his most enigmatic cases: The Adventure of the Speckled Band. This detailed recounting not only showcases Holmes's unparalleled deductive skills but also immerses the audience in a tale filled with suspense, mystery, and dark familial secrets.

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Case Introduction

The episode begins with Dr. Watson reminiscing about his extensive collaboration with Holmes, highlighting the uniqueness of the Speckled Band case.

Dr. John Watson [00:34]: "I cannot recall any with more singular features than the case of the Speckled Band."

Early one April morning in 1883, Holmes is awakened by a distressed young woman seeking his expertise.

Sherlock Holmes [01:11]: "Watson, wake up. Watson."

Upon arriving at the residence of Helen Stoner, the twins' unsettling living conditions under the care of her stepfather, Dr. Grimesby Roylott, are revealed.

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Initial Investigation

Helen Stoner expresses her fears about her stepfather's volatile nature and the mysterious circumstances surrounding her twin sister Julia's untimely death.

Helen Stoner [02:13]: "The real horror of my situation seems to be that my fears are so vague and my suspicions depend so entirely on small points which might seem trivial."

Holmes delves into the family's dark history, uncovering Dr. Roylott's violent past and his obsession with exotic animals, including a cheetah and a baboon, which contribute to the family's isolation and Helen's fears.

Helen Stoner [04:33]: "He narrowly escaped a capital sentence, as it was. He suffered a long term of imprisonment and then returned to England a morose and disappointed man."

The narrative thickens as Helen recounts the night of Julia's death, marked by strange whistles and unexplained sounds, leaving the coroner baffled.

Helen Stoner [06:21]: "Only one wing of the house is now inhabited... The windows of all three rooms open out upon the lawn."

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Suspicion and Strategy

Holmes and Watson inspect the Stoker family's residence, meticulously noting peculiarities that others might overlook. The discovery of a dummy bell rope and a non-functional ventilator in Helen's room raises immediate red flags.

Sherlock Holmes [19:17]: "This bell rope is a dummy."

Holmes hypothesizes that Dr. Roylott may be using a trained venomous snake to commit murders, cleverly exploiting the ventilator to deliver the deadly "speckled band."

Sherlock Holmes [21:14]: "In the first place, my friend and I must spend the night in your room."

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Confrontation and Revelation

As night falls, Holmes and Watson execute their plan to observe and confront Dr. Roylott. Their vigilance pays off when the feared snake is unleashed, leading to a dramatic confrontation.

Sherlock Holmes [25:38]: "It's the swamp adder. The deadliest snake in India."

In a tense culmination, Holmes skillfully ensnares the snake, turning Dr. Roylott's own weapon against him, ensuring justice for Julia and safeguarding Helen.

Sherlock Holmes [26:19]: "Now we must remove Ms. Turner to some place of shelter and let the county police know what's happened."

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Conclusion and Reflections

Post-crisis, Holmes reflects on the intricate details that led to unraveling the case, emphasizing the importance of keen observation and logical reasoning.

Sherlock Holmes [26:31]: "When a doctor does go wrong, he is the first of criminals. He has nerve and he has knowledge."

Dr. Watson expresses his admiration for Holmes's methodical approach, underscoring the detective's brilliance in solving seemingly impossible mysteries.

Dr. John Watson [27:04]: "Yes, yes, of course, I see."

The episode concludes with Helen Stoner expressing her heartfelt gratitude, reinforcing the enduring bond between the detective duo and their commitment to justice.

Helen Stoner [22:27]: "Thank you, Mr. Holmes. I have complete faith in you."

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Key Takeaways

• Holmes's Deductive Genius: The episode masterfully showcases Sherlock Holmes's ability to piece together obscure clues, demonstrating his unparalleled detective skills.
• Atmospheric Setting: The dark, isolated manor of Stoke Moran provides a perfect backdrop for the unfolding mystery, enhancing the suspense and intrigue.
• Character Dynamics: The relationship between Holmes and Watson is highlighted, emphasizing their complementary strengths and unwavering partnership.
• Themes of Greed and Power: Dr. Roylott's descent into madness and his use of vicious means to retain control over his domain serve as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power and wealth.

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Notable Quotes

• Sherlock Holmes [00:03]: "Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean."

  (Note: This is part of the advertisement and is skipped in the summary.)

• Helen Stoner [02:13]: "The real horror of my situation seems to be that my fears are so vague and my suspicions depend so entirely on small points which might seem trivial."

• Sherlock Holmes [19:17]: "This bell rope is a dummy."

• Sherlock Holmes [23:00]: "A lady could not move her bed. It must always be in the same relative position to the ventilator."

• Dr. John Watson [27:14]: "Holmes?"

• Sherlock Holmes [27:42]: "Something of the kind."

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Final Thoughts

The Adventure of the Speckled Band is a quintessential Sherlock Holmes story that combines intricate plotting, memorable characters, and a satisfying resolution. Choice Classic Radio delivers this episode with authenticity, capturing the essence of old-time radio detective storytelling. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of Sherlock Holmes, this episode promises an engaging and immersive listening experience.

Transcript

[Helen Stoner]

Your message amplified.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean. Podbean. Podbean. Podbean.

[Helen Stoner]

Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Helen Stoner]

Launch your podcast on podbean today.

[Dr. John Watson]

My school uses Podbean. My church too.

[Helen Stoner]

I love it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I really do.

[Dr. John Watson]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook.

[Helen Stoner]

Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank.

[Dr. John Watson]

You for [e-mail] my friend Sherlock Holmes worked rather for the love of his art than for the acquirement of wealth. Glancing over my notes of 70 odd cases, I cannot recall any with more singular features than the case of the Speckled Band. I might have placed them on record before, but for a promise of secrecy from which I've only been freed in the last month by the untimely death of the lady to whom I gave. Began early one morning in April 1883.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, wake up. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

What a lad.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come along, Watson. It's a quarter past seven. It seems that a young lady has arrived in a considerable state of excitement.

[Dr. John Watson]

Aha.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now, when young ladies wander about the metropolis at this hour of the morning and knock sleepy people up out of their beds, I presume that it's something very pressing which they have to communicate. Should it prove to be an interesting case, I'm sure you would wish to follow it from the outset, young woman, eh?

[Dr. John Watson]

Just give me a few minutes to dress and I'm ready.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good morning, madam. My name is Sherlock Holmes.

[Helen Stoner]

Good morning, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This is my intimate friend and associate, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good morning, ma'am.

[Helen Stoner]

Good morning, Doctor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm glad to see that Mrs. Hudson has had the good sense to light the fire. Pray draw up to it, madam.

[Helen Stoner]

It is not cold which is making me shiver.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You must not fear. We shall soon set matters right.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, certainly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But now, madam, I beg you to lay before us everything that may help in forming an opinion about this matter.

[Helen Stoner]

The real horror of my situation seems to be that my fears are so vague and my suspicions depend so entirely on small points which might seem trivial. You'll probably tell me they are nothing but the fancies of a nervous woman. But I've heard, Mr. Holmes, that you can see deeply into the wickedness of the human heart.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm all attention, madam.

[Helen Stoner]

My name is Helen Stoner and I'm living with my stepfather, Dr. Grimesby Roylott of Stoke Moran on the west border of Surrey.

[Dr. John Watson]

One of the oldest Saxon families in.

[Helen Stoner]

England, I believe, and at one time amongst the richest, too. But in the last century, four successive heirs wasted the fortune. All that was left was a few acres of ground in the house. The last squire dragged out his existence there, living the horrible life of an aristocratic pauper. But his only son, my stepfather, saw that he must adapt himself to the new conditions and took a medical degree. Then he went out to Calcutta and established a large practice. However, in a fit of anger, after his house had been robbed, he beat his butler to death.

[Dr. John Watson]

Gracious heavens.

[Helen Stoner]

He narrowly escaped a capital sentence, as it was. He suffered a long term of imprisonment and then returned to England a morose and disappointed man.

[Sherlock Holmes]

When did Dr. Roylott marry your mother, Miss Turner?

[Helen Stoner]

While he was in India. My mother was the young widow of Major General Stoner of the Bengal Artillery. My sister Julia and I were twins. We were only two years old at the time of my mother's remarriage.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see.

[Helen Stoner]

Shortly after our return to England. That was about eight years ago, my mother was killed in a railway accident near Crewe.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, tragic. Ms. Woodrum.

[Helen Stoner]

Dr. Rylett then abandoned his attempts to establish himself in practice in London and he took us to live with him in the ancestral house at Stoke Moran. About this time, a terrible change came over my stepfather.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A change?

[Helen Stoner]

Yes. Instead of making friends and exchanging visits with our neighbors, he indulged in ferocious quarrels with anyone crossing his path. He became the terror of the village. He's a man of immense strength and absolutely uncontrollable anger.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Is there any history of violence or violence of temper in his family, to your knowledge?

[Helen Stoner]

There is indeed. I think in my stepfather's case, it's even worse, as he lived so long in the tropics. Only last week, he hurled the local blacksmith over a parapet into a stream. It was only by paying over all the money I could get together that I was able to avert another public exposure.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Terrible, terrible.

[Helen Stoner]

His only friends now are the wandering gypsies. He gives them leave to camp on what's left of the family estate. Oh, and he has his animals.

[Dr. John Watson]

He's a bit of a farmer, then?

[Helen Stoner]

Nothing like that, I'm afraid. He has a passion for Indian animals.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh.

[Helen Stoner]

At this moment, he has a cheetah and a baboon wandering quite freely over the grounds. They are feared by the villagers almost as much as their master. But to continue, you can imagine that I and my poor sister Julia had no great pleasure in our lives. No servant would stay with us, and for a long Time we did all the housework. She was only 30 at the time of her death, but her hair had already begun to whiten, even as mine has.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your sister is dead then?

[Helen Stoner]

She died just two years ago. We have an aunt living near Harrow whom we were occasionally allowed to visit. When Julia went there at Christmas two years ago, she met a half pay major of Marines and became engaged in. My stepfather learned of the engagement when my sister returned and offered no objection to the marriage. But within a fortnight of the day which had been fixed for the wedding, the terrible event occurred which has deprived me of my only companion, Miss Stoner.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Pray be precise as to details at this point.

[Helen Stoner]

Oh, it is easy for me to be so, for every event of that dreadful time is seared into my memory. Only one wing of the house is now inhabited. The bedrooms are on the ground floor. The first is Dr. Roylott's, the second was my sister's and the third my own. There's no communication between them, but they all open out into the same corridor. Do I make myself plain?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perfectly so, yes.

[Helen Stoner]

The windows of all three rooms open out upon the lawn. That fatal night, Dr. Roylott had gone to his room early, but we could smell his strong Indian cigarette scars. Julia was in my room chatting about her approaching wedding. At 11 o'clock she rose to leave me. Helen, darling. Yes, dear? Tell me, have you ever heard anyone whistle in the dead of night? Whistle? No, never. Why are you asking? Because during the last few nights, at about three in the morning, I kept hearing a low, clear whistle. It seems to be from the next room or perhaps from the lawn. I thought I'd just ask you whether you'd heard it. No, I haven't. It must be those wretched gipsies in the plantation. Yes, very likely. And yet if it were on the lawn, I wonder you didn't hear it also. But I've less on my mind than you and I sleep more heavily than you do. Well, I don't suppose it matters. Good night, darling. Good night, Julia dear.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just one moment, Miss Stoner. You locked the door after your sister.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, I did.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Was it your custom always to lock yourselves in at night?

[Helen Stoner]

Always.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why was that?

[Helen Stoner]

Well, I mentioned that Dr. Roylott keeps a cheetah and a baboon. We wouldn't have felt safe unless our doors were locked.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, quite so. Pray continue, please.

[Helen Stoner]

Well, I. I couldn't sleep that night. I had a vague feeling of impending misfortune. My sister and I were twins, you know. We seemed to be very closely bound.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, Often the case.

[Helen Stoner]

It was a wild night with the wind howling and the rain beating against the windows. Suddenly, over all the hubbub of the gale, I heard the wild screams of a terrified woman. I knew it was my sister's voice. I rushed into the corridor. As I opened my door I seemed to hear a low whistle and then a clanging sound as if a mass of metal had fallen. My sister's door was unlocked and revolved slowly upon its hinges. I was rooted to the spot, not knowing what was about to issue up from it. Then by the light of the corridor lamp I saw my sister coming out with her face blanched with terror, her hands groping for help, a whole figure swaying to and fro like a drunkard. Julia. Julia, my darling.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is it?

[Helen Stoner]

What happened? It was. Yes, it was the band. The speckled band. The speckled band. Julia, darling.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That one.

[Helen Stoner]

When he reached my sister's side she was unconscious. She slowly sank and died without recovering. And such was the dreadful end of my beloved sister.

[Dr. John Watson]

A terrible story, ma'am.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What conclusions did the coroner come to Ms. Turner?

[Helen Stoner]

He was unable to find any satisfactory cause of death. My evidence showed that Julia's door had been fastened on the inside and the windows were blocked with old fashioned shutters with broad iron bars. The walls were carefully sounded and they were found to be quite solid all round. The floor was also examined with the same result. The chimney, it's wide but it's barred up by four large staples.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Were there any marks of violence on her?

[Helen Stoner]

None.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How about poison?

[Helen Stoner]

The doctor examined her for it but there was nothing there.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ms. Stoner, what do you think this unfortunate lady died of?

[Helen Stoner]

It's my belief, Mr. Holmes, she died of pure fear and nervous shock.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And what do you think frightened her?

[Helen Stoner]

That I cannot imagine.

[Dr. John Watson]

You said there were gypsies about the place. Were there any at the time?

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, Dr. Watson, there are nearly always some.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What did you gather from this allusion to a band? A speckled band?

[Helen Stoner]

I sometimes thought it was merely the wild talk of delirium, but it may have referred to some band of people.

[Dr. John Watson]

The gypsies.

[Helen Stoner]

It had crossed my mind. I don't know whether the spotted handkerchief some of them wear over their heads might be described as speckled vans.

[Sherlock Holmes]

These are very deep waters. Pray go on with your narrative.

[Helen Stoner]

Two years have passed since then, Mr. Holmes. My life has been lonelier than ever. And just lately, however, a dear friend whom I've known for many years has done me the honor to ask me to marry him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is your stepfather's View.

[Helen Stoner]

He's offered no opposition whatever.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see.

[Helen Stoner]

But two days ago some repairs were started in the west wing of the building. My bedroom wall is affected, so I had to move into the room into which my sister died. I'm sleeping in the very bed in which she slept. So you can imagine my terror last night as I lay awake thinking of her terrible fate when I suddenly heard in the silence of the night the low whistle which had been the herald of her own death.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, great heaven.

[Helen Stoner]

I sprang up and lit the lamp but nothing was to be seen in the room. I was too shaken to go to bed again, however, so I got dressed and as soon as it was daylight I slipped down to the Crown Inn and got a dog car to drive me to Leatherhead. My one object was to see you, Mr. Holmes, and ask your advice.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have done wisely. But have you told me everything? Yes, I have, Ms. Stoner. You have not, Mr. Holmes. You are screening your stepfather.

[Helen Stoner]

I don't understand what you mean.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If you'll permit me to turn back the fringe of your sleeve. Thank you.

[Dr. John Watson]

Terrible.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have been cruelly used, madam.

[Helen Stoner]

Oh, he. He is a hard man. Perhaps he hardly knows his own strength.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This is very deep business, but we haven't a moment to lose. Now then, if we were to come to Stoke Moran today, would it be possible for us to see over these rooms without your stepfather's knowledge?

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, as it happens, he was speaking of coming into town today on some important business.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Excellent. What are you going to do yourself, Miss Donut?

[Helen Stoner]

Now that I'm in town there are one or two things that I'd like to do. I shall go back by the 12 o'clock train so as to be there in time for your coming. But my heart is lightened already, Gentlemen. I shall look forward to seeing you again this afternoon.

[Dr. John Watson]

Allow me to see you out, Ms. Donnell.

[Helen Stoner]

Thank you, Doctor.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you think of it all, Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

Dark and sinister, that's what I think of it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dark enough and sinister enough.

[Dr. John Watson]

But Holmes, if she's correct in saying the floors and walls are sound and the door and window and chimney impossible, then her sister must have been absolutely alone when she met her death.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Death in a sealed room, in other words. What the devil.

[Dr. John Watson]

Which of you is Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

My name, sir, but you have the advantage of me.

[Dr. John Watson]

I am Dr. Grimes, be Roylott of Stoke Moran.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed, Doctor. Pray take a seat.

[Dr. John Watson]

I will do nothing of the kind. My stepdaughter has been here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have traced her.

[Dr. John Watson]

What has she been saying to you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It is A little cold for the time of the year.

[Dr. John Watson]

What has she been saying to you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

But I have heard that the crocuses promise. Well. Ha.

[Dr. John Watson]

You think you can put me off, do you? I know you, you scoundrel.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I've heard of you before.

[Dr. John Watson]

You are Holmes the meddler, Holmes the Scotland Yard. Jacky Rothfish.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your conversation is most entertaining, Dr. Roylott. When you go out to close the door, there's a decided draught.

[Dr. John Watson]

I will go when I have had my say. Don't you dare to meddle with my affairs. I know the girl has been here. I'm a dangerous man to fall foul of. See here, I'll show you how I can bend a poker and how I could bend you for two pins. That's what I could do to you. See that you keep yourself out of my grip.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Really? Coming up.

[Dr. John Watson]

Bending your power.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He seems a very amiable fellow. I'm not quite so bulky myself. But if he stayed, I might have shown him that my grip is not much more feeble than his own. Careful, Holme, there you are. Quite straight again, I say. Yes, and fancy his having the insolence to confuse me with the official detective boss. However, the incident gives zest to our investigations.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, I hope the dear little lady won't suffer from allowing this brute to trace us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Let's hope not. And now, Watson, we shall order breakfast. Afterwards, I shall walk down to Doctors Commons, but I hope to get some data which may help us in this matter.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, Holmes, I wondered if you'd be back for lunch. What have you got there?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Some rather interesting notes. I've been examining the will of the deceased wife.

[Dr. John Watson]

Roylots.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, the total income at the time of his wife's death was little short of eleven hundred pounds.

[Dr. John Watson]

Warm villa.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Each daughter could claim a third of the income in case of marriage. So if both girls had married, this beauty would have had a mere pittance.

[Dr. John Watson]

I see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now Watson, I think we must forego lunch and take a cab to Waterloo.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very well, if you say so.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'd be much obliged if you'd slip your revolver into your pocket. An Ely's number two is an excellent argument with gentlemen who can twist steel pokers into knots.

[Helen Stoner]

Podbean, your message amplified.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ready to share your message with the world?

[Helen Stoner]

Start your podcast journey with Podbean. Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Dr. John Watson]

Use Podbean to record your podcast.

[Helen Stoner]

Use podbean.AI to optimize your podcast. Use podbean AI to turn your blog into a podcast.

[Dr. John Watson]

Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere.

[Helen Stoner]

Launch your podcast on Podbean today. Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson. I've been waiting so eagerly for you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, Ms. Turner.

[Helen Stoner]

It's all turned out splendidly. Dr. Oyl has gone to town and it's unlikely he'll be back before evening.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We've had the pleasure of making the Doctor's acquaintance.

[Helen Stoner]

Where?

[Dr. John Watson]

He came to our rooms.

[Helen Stoner]

He followed me then?

[Sherlock Holmes]

So it appears.

[Helen Stoner]

What will he say when he returns?

[Sherlock Holmes]

He'd better be on his guard. He may find there's someone more cunning than himself on his track. But now we must make the best use of our time.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If you'll kindly take us at once to the rooms we are to examine.

[Helen Stoner]

If you will follow me then.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This is the door, I take it, of the room in which you're now sleeping?

[Helen Stoner]

Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dr. Roylott's room is on one side of it and your old room on the other. That's so you're sleeping in here? Only while alterations are going on, I believe you said.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, doesn't seem much needed repairs. A dead end wall is solid enough.

[Helen Stoner]

I believe it was simply an excuse to move me from my room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, that's suggestive. Now, if I may examine the room itself.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, please come in.

[Dr. John Watson]

After you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. Now, there are the shutters you close over the windows at night.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, strong enough by the look of them. Solid iron hinges. Nowhere to get a knife through to raise the bar.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe you're correct, Watson. What else have we. Oh, what is that over the bed? Bell rope.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, it rings in the housekeeper's room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It looks newer than the other things here.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, it was only put there a couple of years ago.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, let me have a look at it. This bell rope is a dummy. Look, you can see it's fastened to a hook just above the little opening of the ventilator.

[Helen Stoner]

How very absurd. I never noticed that before.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There are one or two very singular points about this room. For instance, do you notice that the ventilator connects with the adjoining room?

[Dr. John Watson]

Good heavens.

[Helen Stoner]

The ventilator was quite a recent addition, too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Done about the same time as the bell rope, I fancy.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, there were several little changes carried out about that time.

[Sherlock Holmes]

They seem to have been of a most interesting character. A dummy bell rope and a ventilator which doesn't ventilate. With your permission, Ms. Stoner, we shall now carry our researches into the next apartment. Dr. Roylott's own room, sparsely furnished, I see. Yes, and a Safe? What's in it?

[Helen Stoner]

My stepfather's business papers.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, you've seen inside them?

[Helen Stoner]

Only once, some years ago, it was full of papers.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There isn't a cat in it, for example.

[Dr. John Watson]

Cat in a safe home.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, look at this. What's a saucer of milk doing here?

[Helen Stoner]

We don't keep a cat. But there is a cheetah and a baboon.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, a cheetah is just a big cat, yet I dare say a saucer of milk wouldn't go very far in satisfying his wants. Hello. Now here is something interesting.

[Dr. John Watson]

It looks like a dog leash curled.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Upon itself and tied to make a loop of whipcord. What do you make of that, Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, it's a common enough object, but I don't know why it should be tied like that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That isn't quite so common, is it? Ah, me, It's a wicked world. And when a clever man turns his brain to crime, it's the worst of all. Now Ms. Stoner, it's very essential that you should absolutely follow my advice in every respect. Your life may depend upon your compliance.

[Helen Stoner]

I assure you I'm in your hands.

[Sherlock Holmes]

In the first place, my friend and I must spend the night in your room. It must be so. Let me explain. I believe that is the village inn over there.

[Helen Stoner]

Yes, that is the Crown.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very good. You must confine yourself to your room with a headache when your stepfather comes back. When you hear him retire for the night, you must open the shutters of your window, undo the hasp, put your lamp there as a signal to us, and then withdraw into the room which you used to occupy. I've no doubt that you could manage there for one night.

[Helen Stoner]

Oh yes, easily.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The rest you will leave in our hands.

[Helen Stoner]

But what will you do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

We shall come over from the inn and spend the night in the room you've left and we shall investigate the cause of this noise which has disturbed you.

[Helen Stoner]

Mr. Holmes, I believe you have already made up your mind.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Perhaps I have.

[Helen Stoner]

Then for pity's sake, tell me what was the cause of my sister's death?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I should prefer to have clearer proof before I speak. And now, Ms. Stoner, we must leave you. If Dr. Roylott returned and saw us, our journey would be in vain. Watson and I must make our way to the Crown and engage a room commanding a view of this part of Stokemoran manor House. Goodbye, Ms. Stoner. Be brave.

[Helen Stoner]

Thank you, Mr. Holmes. I have complete faith in you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You know, Watson, I really have some scruples about taking you with me tonight. There's A distinct element of danger.

[Dr. John Watson]

Can I be of assistance?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your presence might be invaluable.

[Dr. John Watson]

Then I shall certainly come.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's very kind of you.

[Dr. John Watson]

You speak of danger, Holmes. You've evidently seen more in these rooms than I did.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, I imagine you saw as much as I, but I fancy I may have deduced a little more.

[Dr. John Watson]

I didn't notice anything remarkable except the bell rope.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You saw the ventilator too?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes. What harm can there be in that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, there is at least a curious coincidence of dates. A ventilator is made, a bell rope is hung and a lady who sleeps in the bed dies. Did you observe anything peculiar about that bed? No, it was clamped to the floor.

[Dr. John Watson]

What?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A lady could not move her bed. It must always be in the same relative position to the ventilator. End of the rope, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Now I'm beginning to see we're only just in time to prevent another subtle and horrible crime.

[Sherlock Holmes]

When a doctor does go wrong, he is the first of criminals. He has nerve and he has knowledge. We shall have horrors enough before the night is over.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes. There's the light from the manor house. A signal.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come along, Ned. And keep a sharp lookout for that baboon, the cheater.

[Dr. John Watson]

I should be a good deal happier when we're in that room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now, Watson, we must get in as quietly as possible and close the shutters without a sound. We must sit without a light. He would see it through the ventilator. He must believe she has gone to bed.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, I understand.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Do not go to bed. Sleep. Your life may depend upon it. Have your pistol ready in case we should need it. I'll sit on the side of the bed and you in the chair.

[Dr. John Watson]

Right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good. Let's get in there. Excellent. Now put out in the lamp, Watson. Right. Good. Now they're quite still. Not a sound.

[Helen Stoner]

Holmes, something's happening.

[Dr. John Watson]

A lantern's been lit in the next room.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I see. Listen.

[Helen Stoner]

What is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Right, Watson, stay where you are. I'll light the candle. You see it, Watson, you see it?

[Dr. John Watson]

I can't.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can't. Ah, it's gone.

[Dr. John Watson]

What is it, Rose? I can't see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, get your pistol out. Now into Roylot's room.

[Dr. John Watson]

Quickly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look at him.

[Dr. John Watson]

Look at his head wrapped around it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The van, the speckled van. It's a swamp adder. The deadliest snake in India. He's dead already. Careful, Holmes, there's the doggies in his lap. I've got it. Now then, to slip the noose round this reptile's neck like that's got Him. And if you'll open the safe door as quickly as you can, little Wyler, we'll pop it inside like that. Close the door quickly.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, with the greatest pleasure.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now we must remove Ms. Turner to some place of shelter and let the county police know what's happened.

[Dr. John Watson]

But Holmes, what made you suspect you would find a snake?

[Sherlock Holmes]

When I examined the room it became clear to me that whatever danger threatened could not come either from the window or the door. The discovery that the bell rope attached to the ventilator was a dummy and that the bed was clamped to the floor instantly made me suspicious that the rope was there as a bridge. The idea of a snake occurred to me instantly and when I coupled it with my knowledge that Dr. Roylott was furnished for the supply of creatures from India, I felt sure I was on the right track.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, yes, of course, I see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It would be a sharp eyed coroner indeed who could distinguish the two little dark punctures which would show where the poison fangs had done their work.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well what about the whistle?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That was the next thing I thought about. He would put the snake through the ventilator with a certainty that it would crawl down the rope and land on the bed. But he couldn't be sure that it would bite the occupant of the bed. She might escape every night for a week before she fell. A victim. Therefore he had to be able to recall the snake before the morning light or she would have seen it. So he trained it probably by the use of the milk which we saw to come back to him when he whistled.

[Dr. John Watson]

Snake charmer, eh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Something of the kind. When I saw the safe, the saucer of milk on this loop of whipcord, any doubts I might still have had with a spell. So the metallic clang was obviously caused by her stepfather hastily closing the door of his safe on this terrible argument.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

You know I'm just beginning to feel rather thankful that I didn't know any of this before we settled down in that room in the dark. When I think of that creature sliding down the bell rope towards us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, at least I sat on the bed and gave you the chair.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, so you did. And you knew what to expect too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

As soon as I heard the creature hiss I knew for certain what we were up against. I don't mind admitting I was glad to get that candle lit and use my stick on the brute.

[Dr. John Watson]

With the result of driving it through.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The ventilator and also with the result of causing it to turn on its master the other side. Side? Some of my blows got home upon it and must have roused its snakish temper. It fled through the ventilator and fastened upon the first person it saw. No doubt I'm indirectly responsible for Dr. Grimesby Roy's death, but I can't say it's likely to weigh very heavily upon my conscience. It.