Sherlock Holmes: The Double Zero 11/19/1945 (Rathbone & Bruce)

Summary

Podcast Summary

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Double Zero 11/19/1945 (Rathbone & Bruce)
Date: January 2, 2026
Main Cast: Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes, Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson
Setting: South of France, 1900

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Episode Overview

This episode unfolds in the glamorous yet dangerous world of the French Riviera’s gambling casinos. Holmes and Watson, fresh from a delicate royal mission, become embroiled in a case involving a double tragedy at a casino in Frejas. Beneath the glittering surroundings and games of chance, suspicion, misfortune, and ultimately murder take center stage. The case revolves around the apparent suicide of a German gambler after heavy losses and the suspicious death of a young American who tries to fake his own suicide as a joke, only to end up murdered.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Progression

1. Arrival at the Casino & The Double Zero

• [02:15] Watson explains the allure of the Riviera and introduces the setting at a less fashionable casino near Cannes.
• [04:02] Watson is caught up in games of chance, while Holmes is skeptical:

  “I'm a little dubious as to the integrity of this particular casino.” – Holmes
  Holmes points out that the roulette wheel has a double zero, increasing the house’s edge.

2. Casino Tension & The First Tragedy

• [05:04] Heated exchanges at the roulette table between Herr Schnehmann (a German gambler) and Roger Gilbert (American), each blaming the other for their luck.
• [08:35] Schnehmann, devastated by his losses, is found dead in the garden, an apparent suicide. Watson confirms the death; Holmes notes, “Powder burns on the shirt front...revolver clutched...the angle of the wound settles it. Obviously self-inflicted.”

3. The Mystery of the Money

• [09:44] Holmes finds a wad of banknotes in Schnehmann’s pocket, contradicting his wife's claim that he lost everything.

  “Then how do you account for this sheaf of banknotes in his breast pocket?” – Holmes

• [11:17] Holmes theorizes the money was placed after death, to prevent casino scandal:

  “The money was placed there after he had shot himself…To prevent the casino from getting a bad name.” – Holmes

4. Roger Gilbert’s Joke & The Second Tragedy

• [12:13-13:14] Over drinks, Gilbert jokes about faking his own suicide to get the casino to stuff money in his pockets.
• [15:02-16:11] Later, Frau Schnehmann discovers a body in the garden – it's Roger Gilbert, seemingly mimicking his earlier plan.
• [16:11] Watson tries to rouse him:

  “Roger, get up. The joke’s spoiled. Roger, get up.” – Mrs. Gilbert
  Holmes: “I’m afraid that’s impossible, Mrs. Gilbert. He’s dead.”
  The joke has turned into real murder.

5. Investigation & Deductions

• [18:00] Inspector Ganivet arrives; Holmes asserts that this was not a suicide, based on the bullet’s angle and the presence of both blood and (staged) red ink stains.
• [18:42] Holmes identifies a bullet hole through the banknotes – placed before Gilbert was shot.

6. The Suspect Pool & Elimination

• [21:02-22:13] Holmes interviews Frau Schnehmann and Helen Gilbert, noting both have poor alibis.
• [22:13] Holmes questions Casino Director Monsieur Chevre. Chevre confirms the casino’s practice of planting money on “suicides” but claims he did not do so for Gilbert.

7. The Reveal – The Murderer Unmasked

• [23:33] Chevre attempts to exonerate Helen Gilbert by providing her an alibi for an unspecified time (which Holmes disputes, as no one knew the murder time).
• [23:43] Holmes exposes the flaw:

  “Our investigations have never established what time the murder was committed, Monsieur Chevre. I’m afraid you’ve walked into my trap. You’ve given yourself away.”

• [23:52] Chevre confesses, revealing jealousy and passion as his motives:

  “Because I am in love with his wife. She is young, beautiful and rich...Mr. Gilbert gave me the perfect opportunity.”

• Chevre threatens suicide. Holmes laments:

  “It’s a coward’s way out.”

• Chevre:

  “No, no, all my life I have been a gambler. I gambled tonight for the highest stakes of all and I lost. I am not afraid to pay for my losses. Au revoir.” – Chevre [24:45] (Chevre takes his own life).

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Holmes on gambling:

  “I can tell you a really infallible way of making money at roulette. Own the gambling house and operate the tables yourself. The odds would be all in your favor.” – Holmes [13:33]

• On the double zero roulette wheel:

  “Most continental wheels have only a single [zero] – would indicate that this house is extremely concerned with its percentage.” – Holmes [04:26]

• Dr. Watson's humor:

  “...the fellow who told me about it said it couldn't miss. It's just a matter of doubling the stakes each time you lose.” – Watson [13:21]
  Holmes quips, “Your infallible system appears to be extremely fallible.”

• Holmes’ final explanation:

  “Roger Gilbert had been losing heavily and had planned this hoax. He obviously had no money on him. Therefore the money was planted in his pocket by Chevre after he shot him.” – Holmes [25:45] “No, my dear fellow, before. The bullet hole through the banknotes proved that…” – Holmes [25:47]

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:15] – Casino introduction, roulette’s double zero discussion
• [05:04] – Escalating tensions at the table
• [08:35] – Schnehmann’s suicide discovered
• [09:44] – Discovery of money, Holmes’ suspicions arise
• [13:14] – Discussion of gambling “systems”
• [15:02] – Roger Gilbert’s possible prank is discovered as real death
• [18:00] – Holmes explains why Gilbert’s death is murder
• [21:02] – Interview with the widows
• [22:13] – Chevre questioned
• [23:43] – Holmes traps Chevre; confession and denouement
• [24:45] – Chevre’s final words and suicide

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Episode Tone and Style

The episode maintains the classic radio style—witty banter between Holmes and Watson, melodramatic yet engaging supporting characters, and the “drawing room” explanation scene. Holmes is studiously rational, with dry wit, while Watson provides everyman reactions and light comic relief.

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Conclusion

“The Double Zero” delivers an atmospheric and cleverly constructed whodunit set against the beguiling background of the Riviera casino world. The episode explores themes of superstition, luck, passion, and the psychological perils of gambling, filtered through Holmes’ acute logic and Watson’s warm, relatable narration. The narrative pivots from a simple suicide to a layered crime of passion, concluding with a classic trap and confession. This is a quintessential Sherlock Holmes adventure blending suspenseful storytelling, period color, and sharp deductions in timeless radio style.

Transcript

[A]

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].

[B]

This episode from the Life of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by shortwave and through the worldwide facilities of the Armed Forces Radio Service. Petri wine brings you Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce in the new adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The Petrie family, the family that took time to bring you good wine, invites you to spend the next half hour listening to Dr. Watson tell us another exciting adventure he shared with his old friend Doctor, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And say, let me tell you something I found out just the other day. Steaks are really back again. Good, thick, juicy porterhouse steaks. That's for me. A thick, tender steak on the rare side, together with a glass of Petri California Burgundy. You know, Petri Burgundy is a perfect mealtime wine. And with meat, or any meat dish, it's the very last word in good eating. Honestly, when you taste the wonderful flavor of that rich red Petri Burgundy, you're tasting one swell example of the art of winemaking. It's full flavored and just about the most delicious wine that ever poured from a bottle. Try it the next time you have steak or chops, or the next time you have hamburger or pot roast. Believe me, Petri Burgundy is the best friend a good meal ever. And now let's look in on our good friend and host, Dr. Watson.

[C]

Come in, come in, come in. Ah, There you are, Mr. Bartel.

[B]

Evening, Doctor.

[C]

Just in time to join me in a cup of coffee. Draw up your chair, young fellow, my lad.

[B]

Thank you.

[C]

Ah, that's it.

[B]

Well, Doctor, you told us last week that tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure takes us to the south of France.

[C]

That's right, Mr. Bartel. The south of France in the year 1900. A beautiful playground bordered by the bluest of blue seas and populated with an extraordinary cross section of cosmopolitan Europe. Rich man, poor man, beggar man, thief. All of them attracted by that Riviera paradise. All of them drawn by the magical spell of a small white ball spinning round the rim of a roulette wheel.

[B]

Now, don't tell me that you and the great Sherlock Holmes were there on a gambling spree.

[C]

We were not, Dr. Barteau, at the time my story begins, we just concluded an extremely delicate mission. A mission, I may say, that concerned the safety and good name of a very prominent member of the royal family.

[B]

Say, Doctor, you don't mean it.

[C]

One story at a time, Mr. Bartell. In any event, my boy, I'm afraid that's a case about which my lips are sealed for all time. But to return to tonight's adventure, one June evening I persuaded Holmes to accompany me to the gambling casino at Frejas, not far from Cannes where we were staying. It wasn't quite as fashionable as the casino at Monte Carlo that as I intended to do a little modest gambling myself, it seemed an establishment more suited to my means. As we stood there at the green baize covered tables, the chatter of voices and the melodic chanting of the croupiers, as they called the results of each spin of the wheel formed a background to a quiet conversation that Holmes and I were having. Lost Again, Watson, that number 10 must come up soon.

[D]

Why not cut your losses, old fellow, and come for a stroll with me on the well.

[C]

Just a big wake. A couple more bets, Holmes, I have a feeling that 10 is bound to come up in a minute.

[D]

Watson, I believe the blood of a gambler courses through your veins in taking.

[C]

A little flutter once in a while. Why don't you risk a few francs, huh?

[D]

No, thank you, my dear chap. The law of averages convinces me that my money is safer in my pocket. In any case, I'm a little dubious as to the integrity of this particular casino.

[C]

Well, what makes you say that?

[D]

Well, you will observe that this roulette wheel has a double zero. Most continental wheels have only a single one would indicate that this house is extremely concerned with its percentage.

[C]

Mesdames Faitful. Oh, just two more turns of the wheel, Holmes, and I'll take that walk with you.

[E]

Oh, Mrs. Gearspielen, why do you not play from the other side of the table? Why must you always stand next to me?

[D]

Hello, the trouble up there.

[C]

I've placed my bet, so let's go and see.

[B]

I ask you so why do you.

[F]

Play here beside me?

[G]

I'm afraid I don't see any reason why I can't play wherever I squish.

[E]

You've broken my luck. Ever since you come to the table I've done nothing but lose. Please do move away.

[G]

I'll move away yourself if you don't like my company.

[H]

Heinrich, why do you not stop now? You've already lost more than we can afford.

[E]

One more trial, sir. I can win it all back if only this young man will move away.

[I]

Why should my husband move? He's had a bad run of luck too.

[C]

Bruge and Paris.

[D]

Ah, you've lost again, Watson.

[H]

Heinrich, you must stop now.

[E]

I must stop inside because I've lost everything. I hope you're satisfied, Mr. American. You've broken my luck in ruins. I hope that you and your turn will be ruined.

[H]

Heinrich, find a fate for me.

[G]

I never heard such rubbish in my life. Were you listening to him, sir?

[D]

I heard his last few remarks, Mr. Gilbert. Roger Gilbert.

[G]

And this is my wife, Helen.

[D]

How do you do? My name is Holmes and this is.

[F]

My friend Dr. Watson.

[C]

How do you do?

[I]

How do you do? Didn't you think his remarks were a little out of place, Doctor?

[C]

I certainly did, Mrs. Gilbert. I don't see how he can possibly blame your husband for his run of bad luck.

[D]

I didn't like the look on his face as he left the table though. Have you any idea who he is?

[G]

His name is Schneman. He's staying at the same hotel as we are. I've never spoken to him but I've heard him being paged there.

[I]

Well, he shouldn't gamble unless he can afford to lose.

[G]

I'm losing, darling, and I can't afford it.

[I]

Oh, but I can let you have more money, you know that.

[G]

No, Helen, I. I may have married an heiress but I'm not going to use her fortune to gamble with. Oh, I'll lose my own money and then I'll quit.

[B]

Your last bit.

[H]

Watson.

[C]

Yes, Holmes? This time I know that number 10 is going to come up. It's got to.

[G]

I've lost again. Darn it, Helen, this is my bad night.

[I]

Why don't you stop now, dear holmes.

[D]

I've made 350 francs on this throw of the wheel, old fellow. But as you've lost some 500 francs doing it, I can't say that your profits stagger me.

[I]

Oh, Mr. Holmes, I can see that you're no gambler.

[D]

I'm afraid not, Mrs. Gilbert.

[C]

Say that, Holmes, you may not like roulette. You've taken a good many chances in your life with long odds against you too.

[D]

Nevertheless, old chap, in the sense Mrs. Gilbert means it, I am not a gambler. Oh, I forgot to.

[G]

What's the commotion over there?

[I]

That German woman with a crowd forming around.

[G]

Yes, yes, the wife of that man that said I ruined him.

[C]

Attention.

[D]

There must be trouble. He's asking for a doctor.

[C]

Doctor. Come along then.

[D]

Will you excuse me, please? Thank you. Excuse me, madame. Mal ami, er, docteur, monsieur.

[C]

C' est dame a bezoin de docteur.

[D]

What happened, madame?

[H]

It is my husband.

[C]

Is he ill?

[H]

I just found him lying out in the garden. Please Come with me at once gentlemen.

[D]

Of course we will madam.

[C]

What seems to be the matter with him?

[H]

Herr Doctor? I think he is dead. He's lying by that tree. Doctor, please see if you can help him.

[D]

Somebody else seems to be on the scene before us. Who are you sir?

[F]

I am Monsieur Chabray, director of the casino. Do any of you know this poor man?

[H]

I am his wife. Is he. Is he dead?

[F]

I. I am afraid so, Madame.

[G]

Let me look at him.

[C]

I'm a doctor.

[F]

Was your husband gambling in the casino tonight, Madame?

[H]

Yeah, he was. Poor Heinrich, he lose everything that we have.

[C]

I'm afraid he is dead madam. Shock to the heart.

[H]

Oh, to lie Begott.

[D]

Suicide, Watson?

[C]

Yeah, looks like it. Yes.

[D]

Powder burns on the shirt front. Revolver clutched in the right hand, fingers in a natural position. The angle of the wound settles it. Obviously self inflicted.

[G]

I missed you as you slipped out of the casino.

[D]

What's wrong with him? I'm afraid he's dead, Mr. Gilbert.

[H]

Yes, he committed suicide. I hope young man, that you are satisfied. All night you brought him bad luck. He asked you to move away from him to change his luck. But no, you could not do it.

[G]

Oh Frau Schneeman, I'm terribly sorry but I really don't see how you can blame me.

[H]

I do blame you. And I also blame you, Monsieur Chevre.

[F]

Me? But what have I done?

[H]

Madame, why do you let a man lose all his money at your tables? Is life so cheap to you and money so important that you cannot close the tables to someone before he's ruined?

[F]

Madame, I am more sympathy for you in your tragic loss but that your senior cannot be held responsible. If your husband could not afford to gamble, then he should not come here. How are we to know the financial limitations of our customers?

[D]

You said that your husband lost everything you had tonight, madam.

[C]

Yes, everything.

[D]

Then how do you account for this sheaf of banknotes in his breast pockets?

[I]

Good Lord.

[C]

Must be several thousand francs, sir.

[G]

Then he wasn't ruined.

[F]

And his suicide therefore cannot be blamed on his losses at Montresino. Madame.

[D]

How do you account for this money, Frau Schnehmann?

[H]

Well, I do not understand. Heinrich kept nothing from me. I know that he had not so much money on him when he started tonight. Well why do you all look at me like that? Is it that you think? You think.

[F]

Why think?

[D]

She's painted.

[C]

I've got her.

[D]

Let's get her to her room.

[F]

You can take her to my suite in the casino.

[G]

No, let's take her to the hotel. My wife will look after poor woman, she's had a dreadful shock. She can probably do with another woman's company.

[D]

That's very considerate of you, Mr. Gilbert. Where are you staying?

[G]

At the Hotel Crillon, it's quite near here.

[D]

I'll get a cabin. While I'm doing that Watson, see if you can revive her, will you? Then we'll take her to the Hotel Crillant. It's very kind of you, Mrs. Gilbert to let us bring the poor lady into your suite.

[I]

Well it's the least I can do in spite of what she said about Roger bringing her husband. Bad luck.

[G]

I'm sure she'll need your help when she wakes up, Helen.

[C]

Yes, I think you'll find that she'll sleep for some hours. I gave her a strong sedative.

[G]

We were just about to have a drink, gentlemen. Do you care to join us?

[C]

Oh thank you sir, that'd be very nice. Mr. Gilbert.

[I]

Roger was just telling me that quite a large sum of money was found on herr Shaiman's body. Mr. Holmes?

[D]

Yes Mrs. Gilbert. Several thousand francs.

[C]

This way. Puzzling, Holmes. Why should a man commit suicide with so much money on him?

[D]

I think the answer is obvious. He didn't.

[C]

What on earth do you mean?

[D]

Well the money was placed there after he had shot himself. The banknotes were in his breast pocket if you remember. Hardly the usual place to carry money though it is the easiest pocket for someone to insert it without disturbing the body.

[G]

But why on earth should someone place money on him after his suicide?

[D]

To prevent the casino from getting a bad name. I've heard of it being done on several similar occasions. Gives the impression that the unfortunate victim had other motives than gambling losses to account for his suicide.

[C]

Wait Scott. You mean that one of the casino employees found the body lying there and slipped the money in his breast pocket before we arrived on the scene?

[D]

As you know my dear Watson, I'm not a gambling man. But I'll lay you a hundred to one that is. What happened?

[G]

Well that's a new one. Well here are your drinks gentlemen.

[D]

Thank you.

[C]

Thank you sir. Thank you.

[G]

Say Helen, Mr. Holmes has given me a brainwave.

[I]

Another one? What is it this time, Roger?

[G]

Now I've been losing very heavily tonight.

[I]

Roger, I've told you, if you need money I'll be only.

[C]

But I don't.

[G]

I've got a scheme for making some. I'm going to gamble again tonight after dinner. If I lose, here's what I'll do. I'll stain my shirt front with red ink, walk out in the Grounds, fire a shot and lie down as though I'm dead. I'll wait for someone to come along and stuff my pockets full of banknotes.

[C]

Not a bad idea Mr. Gilbert.

[G]

I think it's a darn good one. What do you say Mr. Holmes?

[D]

It's a whimsical one at any rate. Who knows, you might even be successful.

[I]

Roger, you're not really going to do it are you?

[D]

Sure.

[G]

Perhaps I'll get some of my losses back that way. Well let's drink to it gentlemen. At least I may have hit upon an idea of making money.

[D]

My dear Watson, you'll have to work hard at your practice when you get back to England. Your infallible system appears to be extremely.

[C]

Fallible and yet the fellow who told me about it said it couldn't miss. It's just a matter of doubling the stakes each time you lose.

[D]

Oh my dear fellow, I've been studying your system but I can tell you a really infallible way of making money at roulette.

[C]

You can? What is it?

[D]

Well, own the gambling house and operate the tables yourself. The odds would be all in your favor.

[C]

What a brilliant suggestion.

[D]

Not gambling for Tonight Watson? Nearly 11 o'?

[C]

Clock? No, I think so. Let's take a stroll around the other the table, shall we?

[D]

By the way old fellow, the young American, Mr. Gilbert was losing heavily again tonight.

[C]

He was? I wonder if he'll try that trick that he threatened, the one with the red ink and the shot in the night.

[D]

I shouldn't be at all surprised. As a matter of interest I saw him leave the tables about half an hour ago.

[C]

Here comes his wife on the arm of Monsieur Chevery, the director of the casino.

[D]

Good evening Mrs. Gilbert. Monsieur.

[F]

Bonsoir monsieur.

[I]

Hello Mr. Holmes. Dr. Watson. Monsieur Chevre is giving me a personally conducted tour of the casino. It's quite fascinating.

[F]

And it is quite fascinating for me to have so beautiful a woman on my arm. Mademoiselle, I know that I am the envy of all the men in the room.

[I]

Oh stop flattering me so much. I'm not used to it.

[D]

Mrs. Gilbert. How is Krause Neman?

[I]

She seems much better. She wakened an hour ago and insisted on going back to her own room. I wanted her to spend the night with us in our suite but she wouldn't hear of it.

[C]

I think I should drop in and see her before I go to bed.

[F]

Oh, you have finished the gambling for tonight perhaps Doctor?

[C]

No perhaps about it Monsieur Chevery. I've had a bad run at the tables.

[F]

Oh I Am so sorry.

[I]

Has anyone seen Roger?

[D]

He left the tables about half an.

[C]

Hour ago, Mrs. Gilbert, after doing as I did and losing quite heavily.

[I]

So he lost again, did he? I wonder if he'll try that new system he was talking about.

[D]

We were just discussing that possibility ourselves. Mrs. Gilbert.

[H]

Mrs. Gilbert. Mrs. Gilbert.

[C]

Prasnemann. You shouldn't have left your hotel, you know.

[H]

It is too late to worry for me, Herr Doctor. It is for Mrs. Gilbert now that you should worry.

[F]

What do you mean, Madame?

[H]

Well, I went back just now to where poor Heinrich died. On there, lying in the grass, I saw another body. I was too shocked to go too close but I am quite sure that I recognized your husband, Mrs. Gilbert.

[I]

Oh, Dr. Watson. She's ruined Roger's trick.

[C]

He'll have taken frightened, bolted by the time we get there.

[D]

Watson. Babe. Let's go at once and find out, shall we?

[C]

He. He hasn't gone. He's. He's still lying there.

[I]

It's the most convincing spectacle. That red ink really does look like blood.

[D]

Yes, and blood sometimes looks like red ink. Mr. Gilbert.

[I]

Roger, get up. The joke's spoiled. Roger, get up.

[D]

I'm afraid that's impossible, Mrs. Gilbert. He's dead.

[B]

Doctor Watson's story will be continued in just a second. Which is all the time I need to tell you that the easiest way I know to transform a simple meal into a feast is to serve that meal together with Petri California Sauterne. Petri Sauternes is a delicate white wine that's the perfect companion for chicken or turkey. Turkey. Ah yes, turkey and Petri Sauternes. That's the heart of any Thanksgiving dinner. Look, why not make this Thanksgiving dinner the best one you ever had. Give it the air of a banquet, serve it with Petri Sauternes. And when you buy that Sauterne or any wine for your Thanksgiving dinner, whatever you do, look for the letters P E, T R I because a Petri wine is always a good wine. Well, Doctor, so the young American's joke turned out to be another tragedy.

[C]

Yes, Mr. Bartel. The poor fellow was lying there dead with a bullet wound in the heart and a great splash of blood staining the whiteness of his shirt front. What happened next to the casino took the distraught widow away from the scene while Holmes and I examined the body closely. Within a few minutes we were joined by Inspector Ganivet of the French police. As we stood there in the moonlight, the sounds of music could be heard from the casino. It was hard to believe that two men had died in that Lovely garden since the moon had risen.

[J]

Monsieur holmes, you and Dr. Watson have concluded your examination?

[D]

Yes.

[J]

Inspector Ganav, will you favor me with your observations? You say that you are certain that this is not another suicide?

[D]

I'm sure of it Inspector. Look at the wound. The bullet entered the body at a direct right angle whereas a self inflicted shot is always fired of Bricklink.

[J]

Yes, that is so. Then you suggest that this man was shot from above as he lay on the ground pretending to be dead.

[D]

I'm convinced of it.

[J]

Why monsieur?

[D]

Well for two reasons though it's impossible to be sure without elaborate retest. I'm certain that beneath those blood stains are stains of red ink. Look to yourself Inspector.

[J]

Mm, yes indeed it does look like it. What is your other reason for being certain that this man was shot as he lay here pretending death?

[D]

Show him the banknotes, Watson.

[C]

Here you are Inspector. We found them stuffed in his breast pocket.

[D]

So?

[J]

Banknotes with a bullet hole through the middle of them. Very illuminating. Tell me gentlemen, how many people knew of this little plot you have told me about this plan of the dead man's to pretend to be shot?

[D]

Just three people, Inspector. Dr. Watson, myself and Mrs. Gilbert. Aloha.

[J]

Then the answer is obvious. You and your friend are innocent. It must be the wife who killed him. No one else knew of the plant.

[C]

I'm not so sure of that. Frau Schnehmann, the dead German's widow was in the next room when Gilbert told us about his plan. She might have heard, though I could swear that she was asleep. I gave her a very strong sleeping draught.

[J]

From what you have told me of her husband's suicide, she might easily have had a motive for murdering this man.

[D]

Oh come, come, come gentlemen. Surely it's obvious who murdered Mr. Gilbert.

[J]

Who monsieur?

[C]

It's certainly one of the two widows.

[D]

Since there seems to be some doubt in your minds, I suggest we return to the the casino. I can promise you the answer to your question within a very few minutes. Well M. Chevrolet, now that we're all assembled in your office I shall sit down quietly and let Inspector G conduct his examination.

[J]

No, no, no Monsieur Holmes, no. You have handled the case so far. Please to consent continue it to the end.

[F]

Yes Mr. Holmes, I should appreciate it and be happy that you see now.

[D]

Very well gentlemen, it won't take me long.

[C]

Frost.

[D]

Nehman. Herr Holmes, what time did you leave your hotel tonight?

[H]

Well I do not know what time it was.

[D]

Well what made you leave it?

[H]

I could not sleep. I knew that they had taken poor Heinrich's body. Away. But I felt that I must walk back there. It was the last place I saw him alive.

[D]

How close did you come to Mr. Gilbert's body when you saw it lying there?

[H]

Oh, close enough to see who it was. Then I ran into the casino to tell his wife. I knew what had happened.

[D]

How did you know? You say you didn't come close to the body?

[H]

I could tell by every line of the body as it lay there. I could tell because I knew that poor Heinrich's death would not be avenged.

[D]

Thank you Frau Sheman, that will be all. You may go.

[J]

Monsieur Holmes, she has no alibi.

[C]

Surely you should.

[D]

If I'm to conduct this investigation I must do it my own way.

[J]

Pardon Ms. Holmes, please continue.

[D]

You may go. Mrs. Gilbert.

[I]

Yes Mr. Holmes?

[D]

Where were you prior to our meeting in the casino tonight just before we discovered your husband's body?

[I]

After I left the hotel I walked over here along the seafront.

[D]

Can anyone verify that statement?

[I]

I suppose not. I didn't meet anyone that I knew.

[D]

And what did you do when you arrived at the casino?

[I]

I played a little Shamanda Fair. A few moments later Monsieur Cheveret came over to the table and asked if he might escort me over the club. Ten minutes after that we walked into you and Dr. Watson.

[F]

That is quite true Monsieur Holmes. I can swear to it.

[D]

Thank you Mrs. Gilbert. I'm sorry to distress you with these questions. You may go.

[I]

I'll wait outside. Mr. Holmes. I must know what happened.

[F]

Wait for me there. Madame. I shall join you in a few minutes and escort you home.

[D]

Well, another suspect for the poor alibine, hey Gallebet.

[J]

I must say Monsieur Holmes, your methods puzzle me. It seems to me that both those women should be watched.

[C]

Yes, I agree with the inspector Holmes.

[D]

Please don't worry Inspector. I've asked two of your plain clothes men to keep an eye on the ladies. And now Monsieur Chevre, I'd like to ask you a few questions.

[F]

Ask me any questions you wish, Monsieur Holmes.

[D]

Thank you. You will agree that it is the custom of the casino to put money on the bodies of suicides after their death to give the impression that gambling, gambling losses were not responsible for the tragedy.

[F]

Well I do not think.

[J]

Oh come now Chevre. I know that is a fact as well as you do.

[D]

Exactly. Now on those rather gruesome occasions whose responsibility is it to secrete the money? Yours? Or do you entrust the matter to an underling?

[F]

I do it myself.

[D]

I see. Did you place the money on Herr Schnejmann tonight?

[F]

Yes Monsieur, I Did.

[D]

And did you also perform the same service on the body of Mr. Gilbert?

[F]

No. I knew nothing of that death until the German lady Falsenem come running into the casino.

[J]

Excuse me interrupting Mr. Of course.

[D]

Inspector. What is it?

[J]

I think that you are wasting time. It is obvious that Madame Gilbert committed the crime. She knew of her husband's blood, she had no alibi and she had the motive for. Is not marriage itself the greatest of all motives for murder?

[D]

Oh my dear Inspector, how very cynical.

[F]

Madame Dubert did not kill her husband, I know it.

[D]

And what is your opinion Watson?

[C]

It's a German woman. She had no alibi either. And remember she was half mad with, with grief.

[D]

Mr. Chabray, you say that you know Mrs. Gilbert is not guilty. How do you know?

[F]

I was with her myself at the time the murder was committed.

[D]

Oh indeed, how very interesting. And what time was the murder committed?

[F]

Well it was, it was.

[D]

Our investigations have never established what time the murder was committed. Monsieur Chevrolet. I'm afraid you've walked into my trap. You've given yourself away.

[C]

Great Scott Chevrey, it was you.

[J]

Chevre. I've known you a good many years and this is going to be a hard thing to do. I am going to arrest you. Oh no you are not. Telivet.

[C]

Put down that revolver sir.

[F]

Do not be frightened Doctor. I am not going to shoot you.

[D]

Chevre, why did you murder Roger Gilbert tonight?

[F]

Surely you know that too Monsieur Holmes? Because I am in love with his wife. She is young, beautiful Andridge. It did not occur to me until I saw the young fool lying there tonight pretending to be dead. In my profession it is natural that I should carry a revolver. What was simpler? Mr. Gilbert gave me the perfect opportunity. I could not resist it.

[J]

Put down that revolver Chevre.

[F]

Why are you also frightened? Surely you know how I am going to use it this time?

[D]

I think so monsieur, but it's a coward's way out.

[F]

What an unperceptive remark for such a perceptive man. No, no, all my life I have been a gambler. I gambled tonight for the highest stakes of all and. And I lost. No, no, I am not afraid to pay for my losses. Au revoir.

[C]

What an extraordinary case Holmes. I never suspected Chevre and I old.

[D]

Chap suspected him from the beginning.

[C]

Well I wasn't the only one who was stupid. Anyway, Inspector Ganavay thought it was the wife. True.

[D]

Very pleasant conclusion for a detective Inspector to arrive at.

[C]

Well it seemed logical enough to me at the time.

[D]

No, no, no, no my dear Watson. Cold logic should have told you otherwise. Roger Gilbert had been losing heavily and had been planned this hoax. He obviously had no money on him. Therefore the money was planted in his.

[C]

Pocket by Chevre after he shot him.

[D]

No my dear fellow, before. Before the bullet hole through the banknotes provided that. Now had the money been put there innocently Gilbert would have, well, you know, come back to life as soon as the person placing it there had left. He would not have remained lying on the ground for a murderer to find him.

[C]

Then Chevrey must have bent over him as he lay there, placed the money in his breast and pocket and then fire.

[D]

Precisely Watson.

[C]

Well Holmes, I must say you solved it very neatly. You've told Inspector Ganivet that you wanted no credit in the case.

[D]

Naturally publicity would be unfavorable. If you remember no one is supposed to know that we're in the south front.

[C]

I'm certain that the Inspector learned a few tips about detection tonight.

[D]

Possibly old fellow, and I hope that you have learned a few things about gambling.

[C]

How do you mean Holmes?

[D]

Well you're backing the wrong color. A gambler is usually superstitious and superstition. Well I should have told you what color to follow tonight.

[C]

I still don't understand you Holmes. I was playing number 10.

[D]

Exactly. Number 10 is black. You should have followed a red color tonight, old fellow. The color of red ink. Red ink and blood.

[B]

Say doctor, that was a swell story. I didn't know you liked to play roulette. You know, I figured out a system for roulette. It's like yours, every time you lose you double your money and keep doubling until you win.

[C]

Oh it's a great system Mr. Bartel. There's only one thing wrong with it.

[B]

What's that?

[C]

If you lose or go broke before you win. Look, look, take my advice, don't gamble. You can't beat the laws of chance.

[B]

But suppose I bet on a sure thing.

[C]

Like what for instance?

[B]

Oh, like the fact that Petri wine is always good wine. It is. You know, because the Petri family has been making wine for generations. They've been handing down from father to son, from father to son, the art of turning luscious sun ripened grapes into delicious fragrant wines. Ever since the Petrie family started their business way back in the 1800s they've been perfecting the art of winemaking. That's why Petri wine is always good wine. The Petri family took time to bring you good wine. So no matter what type wine you prefer, why not take a few seconds of your time to look for the letters P, E, T, R, I. They spell delicious wine. Petri wine. Well, Dr. Watson, what new Sherlock Holmes story are you going to tell us next week?

[C]

Next week, Mr. Bartel, I'm going to tell you of a strange adventure that Sherlock Holmes and I had when we were in Stratford on Avon many years ago. It concerns an actor, a mysterious boating accident and several dead butterflies.

[B]

Sounds good, Doctor. I'll see you then.

[C]

Oh, fine. But now, don't forget, next week we're going to broadcast our program from the Paramount Hollywood for the Victory loan Drive. So if any of our friends are going to be in Hollywood, we'd love to see them there. Just buy a victory bond at any store or bank on Hollywood Boulevard. And in return, you will be given your ticket of admission. Better hurry up, though, before all the seats are gone. Let's really buy lots of those victory bonds. Let's finish the job.

[B]

Tonight's Sherlock Holmes adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story, A Study in Scarlet. Music is by Dean Fossler. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer and Mr. Bruce through the courtesy of Universal Pictures, where they are now starring in the Sherlock Holmes series. The Petri Wine Co. Co. Of San Francisco, California, invite you to tune in again next week, same time, same station. This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petrie family. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studio. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.