Sherlock Holmes: The Eyes of Mr. Leyton 09/24/1945 (Rathbone & Bruce)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes: The Eyes of Mr. Leyton (Original Air Date: 09/24/1945)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Eyes of Mr. Leyton
Date Aired: December 5, 2025 (rebroadcast)
Main Characters: Sherlock Holmes (Basil Rathbone), Dr. Watson (Nigel Bruce)
Notable Guests: Harry Bartell (Narrator), Mrs. Hudson

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode plunges listeners into a fog-drenched London where Holmes and Watson team up to unravel a murder mystery centered on rival businessmen and the shadowy world of opium dens in Limehouse. Adapted from an incident in Arthur Conan Doyle’s "The Man with the Twisted Lip," the narrative explores the duplicity of disguise, international intrigue, and the lure of easy fortune—with Holmes at his analytical best and Watson at his stalwart side.

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Key Points & Plot Breakdown

1. The Opium Den Search (03:04–07:08)

• Setting the scene, Watson narrates his quest to find Isa Whitney, an old friend lost to opium addiction, in the grim alleyways of Limehouse.
• Inside the opium den, Watson is offered a berth and a pipe but instead searches for his friend.
• Watson encounters a disguised Holmes, who pretends to be a down-and-out addict to maintain his cover.

Notable Quote:
"Never mind the advice, Watson, but I'll take you up on that square meal."
—Sherlock Holmes (07:04)

2. Holmes' Investigation & The Opium Faker (07:10–10:17)

• Holmes reveals he's tracking a man who haunts opium dens but is not an addict; he believes the man is plotting murder.
• Holmes describes the killer's use of fake mannerisms and eye drops to mimic addiction, deducing his intent from his wide pupils.

Notable Quote:
"Why does a man haunt an opium den? In order not to smoke... I believe the man is planning a murder."
—Sherlock Holmes (08:40–08:55)

3. The American Client, Wayne J. Layton (10:46–12:50)

• Wayne J. Layton, a visiting American businessman, offers Holmes £1,000 to “get his rival out of circulation” for a week, in order to secure a lucrative business deal.
• Holmes refuses the offer outright, ejecting Layton from 221B Baker Street.

Notable Quote:
"I can't think where you gathered the impression that I indulged in kidnapping. Once again, goodbye, sir."
—Sherlock Holmes (12:37)

4. Encounter with the Rival: Linton Cholmondeley (13:26–16:17)

• A fight occurs as Cholmondeley, Layton’s rival, arrives just after Layton leaves.
• Cholmondeley offers Holmes an even larger fee to “take care” of Layton; Holmes again refuses.
• Holmes and Watson note Cholmondeley is an opium addict—his pupils are contracted.

Notable Quote:
"Your hat and glove, sir. That man is out to kill me, Holmes. Well, if you won't help me, I'll go to the police. That's an Excellent idea."
—Sherlock Holmes (16:13)

5. Staking Out the Limehouse Den (16:58–18:38)

• Holmes deploys the Baker Street Irregulars to tail both Layton and Cholmondeley.
• The duo, in disguise (including Holmes as a shabby old woman), surveil the criminals as they (unbeknownst to each other) enter the same den.

Memorable Moment:
Watson is thoroughly fooled by Holmes’ disguise as an old beggar woman, resulting in Holmes giving Watson a good-natured slap.
— (17:14–17:47)

6. The Murder and its Aftermath (19:12–23:21)

• Holmes goes inside the den alone; Watson waits anxiously.
• After a telltale signal, Watson rushes in—Holmes is missing, and Layton is found mortally stabbed.
• Holmes manages to remove Layton’s body via a secret exit, revealing that the den’s proprietor assisted in hiding the crime.
• With his dying breath, Layton utters a cryptic word: “Mandalay.”

7. The Clue of "Mandalay" and Final Resolution (23:36–27:02)

• Holmes realizes “Mandalay” is an American’s mispronunciation of “Cholmondeley.”
• Holmes and Watson track the fleeing Cholmondeley to another opium den, revive him, and extract a confession for the stabbing. Holmes bluffs that Layton is still alive and willing to testify.
• Cholmondeley is handed over to Scotland Yard.

Notable Quote:
"Precisely, old fellow. What you thought to be Mandalay was really Cholmondeley, the name of the murderer."
—Sherlock Holmes (26:54–27:02)

8. Denouement & Reflection (27:10–28:00)

• Mrs. Hudson brings breakfast; Holmes wraps up the case for Watson, explaining the linguistic clue.
• Watson, delighting in old times, agrees to help Holmes further; camaraderie is restored.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Holmes on disguise:
  "When you're able to recognize me it will indeed be the beginning of the end. When your eagle eye penetrates my disguise, I shall realize that my retirement is imminent."
  —Sherlock Holmes (18:05)

• Humorous misdirection:
  "Well, she did look like Holmes in disguise, you know. And you would have made the same mistake that I did."
  —Dr. Watson (28:11)

• Case-wrapping clarity:
  "What you thought to be Mandalay was really Cholmondeley, the name of the murderer."
  —Sherlock Holmes (26:54)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

| Segment | Timestamps | |--------------------------------------|--------------| | Opium den search & Holmes revealed | 03:04–07:08 | | Holmes identifies murderer’s MO | 07:10–10:17 | | Wayne J. Layton’s proposition | 10:46–12:50 | | Cholmondeley’s arrival | 13:26–16:17 | | Holmes & Watson’s Limehouse stakeout | 16:58–18:38 | | Murder discovered, Layton’s death | 19:12–23:21 | | Clue—“Mandalay” solved | 23:36–27:02 | | Humorous wrap-up and case closed | 27:10–28:00 |

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Episode Tone & Style

The episode blends classic Sherlockian suspense, witty repartee, and the warmth of Holmes and Watson’s partnership. Dr. Watson’s narration provides a mix of tension and gentle humor, and Holmes is characteristically sharp, analytical, and slightly sardonic. The banter between the two—especially regarding Holmes’ disguises and Watson’s domestic life—offers light moments in the midst of mystery.

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Summary

The Eyes of Mr. Leyton delivers a robust Sherlock Holmes adventure filled with international intrigue, clever deductions, colorful disguises, and the ever-present camaraderie between Holmes and Watson. Old-time radio storytelling and period-appropriate performances (notably by Rathbone and Bruce) make this both an engaging whodunit and a comforting homage to detective fiction’s golden age.

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Next Week’s Preview

Dr. Watson:
"Next week... it concerns a corpse, a missing revolver, and a beautiful girl who was frightened of her own shadow." (29:25)

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For newcomers, this episode is a textbook example of Holmesian deduction, with atmospheric setting, lively supporting characters, and a solution hinging on language and observation. Watson’s narration keeps the action clear, making it thoroughly enjoyable for fans and new listeners alike.

Transcript

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[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

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

[Dr. Watson]

To us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

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, invite you to listen to Dr. Watson tell us another exciting story about his good friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And I'd like to tell you something that maybe you already know. The fact that America's favorite wine is port wine. Did you know that? If you didn't, you'll know why port is the way out front favorite if you'll just sample some Petri California port. You just look at that Petri port and you know it's good. That wonderful deep, rich red color. And Pet Report is so clear. Just hold it to the light and you can sort of see right through the glass. But what you want to know really about a wine is hot as it tastes. And I'll tell you something. I've never yet been able to find the adjective that'll do Pet Report justice. It's wonderful. Honest. You've just got to taste it for yourself and find out for yourself. You'll love that Pet Report in the evening after dinner when you're sitting around listening to the radio and it's perfect to serve your friends when they come over. You can show them that Petri label, too. In fact, you can show it proudly because the name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wines.

And now for our weekly doctor's visit. Let's see.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no, Mr. Bartell. Don't say, let's see if he's expecting us. You know I always expect you at this time on Monday evenings, my boy. So draw up your usual chair and settle down.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Thanks, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

That's it.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

All alone this evening, Doctor? Where are the puppies?

[Dr. Watson]

Out on the patio. They had A most unfortunate encounter with a dead seal on the beach this afternoon. In consequence, they're a little malodorous.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

In that case, Doctor, perhaps we'd better change the subject. So, suppose I ask you about tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, my boy, as I told you last week, the story took place in the foul alleyways of Limehouse. It was there, on a foggy December evening in 1890, that my story began. An old friend and patient of mine, Isa Whitney, had disappeared and his distraught wife had come to me for help. Knowing the man to be the victim of the shocking habit of taking opium, I suspected that I might find him in one of the vile dens inhabited by the dregs of the waterfront. And. And so, Mr. Bartell, about 5 o' clock on that December evening, I began my search. After an hour of fruitless wanderings, I found myself in a vile alley called Upper Swandam Lane. I could hear the distant moans of the riverboats as I walked, eyes alert and hand on the revolver in my coat pocket.

Suddenly I saw a steep flight of steps leading down to a black gap like the mouth of a cave. I walked down them.

The steps were worn hollow in the center by the ceaseless tread of stumbling feet. I reached the bottom. A door faced me, and above it a flickering oil lamp winked warnings at me. I found the latch and lifted it.

The door squeaked open protestingly.

And I entered.

There was a tinkle of Chinese wind bells as I walked towards a long, low room. A strange sight met my eyes.

Through the gloom, thick and heavy with the brown opium smoke. I saw that the room was terraced with wooden berths like the forecastle of an emigrant ship. Out of the shadows they glimmered little red circles of light, now bright, now faint as a burning poison. Waxed or waned. In the metal pipes, bodies lay in strange, fantastic poses. Bowed shoulders bent knees, heads thrown back. The tendon came up to me with a pipe and beckoned me to an empty berth.

I haven't come here to smoke your filthy drug. I'm looking for a friend, Mr. Isa Whitney.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No Mr. Whitney here.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm going to search the place.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You must not disturb the priest.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm carrying a revolver, so you'd better not argue with me, my good man. Out of the way.

I searched that filthy den but found no trace of my missing friend. As I was leaving despair, a long, shaking hand reached out and plucked at my sleeve. I turned, and there, sprawled in a berth, was the wreckage of a man, his gaunt face yellow and twitching, his Clothes filthy and ragged and the pupil of his eyes like pinpoints. He spoke to me in a thin, quavering voice.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Brethren's sake, get me out of here.

[Dr. Watson]

Now look here my man, don't say.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He won't help me, Governor. Ain't you, Governor?

[Dr. Watson]

Out.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please help me, Governor. Take me out of here. Strike me a pink. I'm gonna bomb here, tell ya, what.

[Dr. Watson]

Must you expect if you indulge in this filthy habit?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Take me out of here, Governor. I'll go straight this time. Cross me out I will.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, very well, come along with me. I suppose it's my duty to help you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, bless you, Governor.

[Dr. Watson]

Here, here, now give me your arm.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

You cannot take him away.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He owe me money as a bleeding lie. I paid him on a coming, I did.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

He cannot go with you, mister.

[Dr. Watson]

You remember what I said about my revolver, you blackguard. Have any more trouble with you, I'll, I'll touch the police. Come along. He owe me money, he owe me money. Infernal owe me money.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And off you didn't.

[Dr. Watson]

Now look here, my good man. I'll give you a square meal, some advice and some medical attention with the rest.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Never mind the advice, Watson, but I'll take you up on that square meal.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I'm very glad to see you, old fellow. What brought you to that filthy den of iniquity?

[Dr. Watson]

This is me. I went to find a friend.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And I an enemy.

[Dr. Watson]

Your disguise is wonderful. It completely fooled me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But I'm afraid the Proprada was beginning to penetrate it. That's why I staged the little rescue scene. Had I been recognized, my life wouldn't have been worth an hour's purchase.

[Dr. Watson]

How long had you been there? Why were you there? Come on, Holmes, tell me all about it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

With pleasure, old chap. But first let's find a a chop house. I want that square meal you promised me.

An excellent meal, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, you're surprisingly good for such a shoddy looking place. Well, Holmes, now perhaps you'll tell me what you were doing in that opium den. I've already told you my story.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm shadowing a most unusual criminal. A man who haunts the opium dens. Yet I know that he himself is not an addict.

[Dr. Watson]

I don't see anything very criminal about that. He might be looking for a thrill, or perhaps he's one of those writer fellows or something.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But this man pretends to be an addict. I watched him closely. He fakes his smoking and grease paint has enabled him to simulate the characteristic power of a drug victim. He even affects the typical mannerism of nose scratching. But it's his eyes that give him away.

[Dr. Watson]

Pupils are wide open I suppose.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exactly old fellow. Whereas if he were really addicted to the drug, they would, as you know, be contracted. I myself always treat my eyes with a special, well, a special kind of drop on the occasion when I had to enter these dens.

[Dr. Watson]

Why does a man haunt an opium den? In order not to smoke.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That, my dear Watson, is the problem that I intend to solve.

[Dr. Watson]

Perhaps the fellow's a policeman or a private detective like yourself, Holmes, I've already.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Checked on those possibilities. No Watson, I believe there is only one answer. I believe the man is planning a murder.

[Dr. Watson]

A murder?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's a tempting setting for a murder. Your victim is an addict, drugged and helpless. Your witnesses are in an equal state of befuddlement. The proprietor is anxious to cover up the crime because of the police.

[Dr. Watson]

That you?

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Yes.

[Dr. Watson]

Hums.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now the question is, who is the intended victim? That, my dear Watson, is why I've been shadowing this man. Unfortunately he was not present in the den we just left, but I intend to continue my search.

[Dr. Watson]

Humza. Can I help you? My, my wife's away, you know. You know, it's, it's a long time since we were on a case together.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I should be delighted. My dear chap, I've missed you sadly during the past few months.

[Dr. Watson]

And are you Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's the next move back to Baker street, old fellow? My disguise is wearing thin and I must contrive a new one.

New disguise, eh? Well, which one shall it be, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

How about the old flower cello? I love that one.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well it's pretty. Oh no, no, no my dear fellow, no. Hardly appropriate for an opium dinner in any case. The clothes are so wretchedly uncomfortable.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, how about the music hall singer?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, I don't want to be beside the seaside. Oh I don't want to be beside the sea. I don't want to stroll along the plom prom prom where the brass band plays tiddly. Um Hokan. Who can that be?

[Dr. Watson]

You weren't expecting anyone, were you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No.

[Dr. Watson]

This is just like the old days. The doorbell ringing, Mrs. Hudson toddling off and bringing up some poor devil in trouble.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And said that rather wistfully. Old fellow, don't tell me that you repent of marriage?

[Dr. Watson]

No, of course not Holmes. Mary's a perfect darling and I couldn't be happier. Just the same, it is rather fun to be back here again.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Helen. Yes, Mrs. Hudson.

[Mrs. Hudson]

It's a gentleman, sir. He gave me this card. Says he's very anxious to see you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Wayne J. Layton, President, Layton Corporation, Chicago, United States. Ask him to come up, will you, Mrs. Hudson?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Aye, sir. Well, it's quite the cold times to see you back here, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

That's just what I was saying myself, Mrs. Hudson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Layton has scribbled a message on the back of his card. If £1,000 for a week's work interests you, you'll see me.

[Dr. Watson]

A thousand pounds.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Big fish, Watson. Very big fish.

[Mrs. Hudson]

This way, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. Oh, how do you do, Mr. Leighton?

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

I guess you're Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You guessed correctly, sir. Excuse me. Oh, Mrs. Hudson. Just a moment, Mrs. Hudson.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Hi, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Sit down, won't you, Slayton? My name's Watson. Dr. Watson. I'm Sherlock Holmes. Colleague.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Yes, I've heard about you, too. Like a cigar, Doctor? It's a good one. Send me back three shillings.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, three shillings. Thank you. That's very nice. Just put one.

Splendid.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now, Mr. Layton, may I ask what brings you here?

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

I'll talk fast and to the point. I'm a businessman. I like to do things in a business way. I have a chance to control the guano deposits at the Republic of San Pedro. Their minister will be in London tomorrow. And if it weren't for one thing, I know that I could swing the deal and get the concession.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And what is that one thing, Mr. Layton?

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

The deal is secrecy. I thought no one knew about it, but when I got here, I found out that my biggest business rival has gotten wind of what's going on. He's an Englishman. I never met him, but he's right here in London. Now, I'm not going to tell you his name. Not until you give me your word that you'll work for me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just what you wish me to do, Mr. Layton.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Get this rival of mine and keep him out of circulation for a week. I don't care how you do it, and I won't ask. In a week's time, I'll give you the other half of this £500 I brought with me.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, good, Scott. What kind of.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, give Mr. Layton his hat and gloves.

That's it. Thanks, old fellow. Goodbye, sir.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

What are you doing, throwing me out?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can't think where you gathered the impression that I indulged in kidnapping. Once again, goodbye, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

And here, sir. You can take back your cigar.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

If you don't want some easy money, I'll soon find someone else that does. This is the last you'll see of me, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Life is full of little consolations.

[Dr. Watson]

Some people seem to think that money can.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The game's afoot. Mr. Layton is the man I've been seeking. A man who pretends to be an opium smoker.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, Basil, you let him get away. Here, I'll go after him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, no, don't worry. I've already arranged for that. Oh?

[Dr. Watson]

How?

[Sherlock Holmes]

When I left the room just now to talk to Mrs. Hudson, I was intending to tell her to summon some of my band of street urchins, you know, the Baker Street Irregulars. When she informed me that half a dozen of them were in the kitchen at this very moment, partaking of one of her incomparable steak and kidney pies, the rest should be obvious.

[Dr. Watson]

You left instructions for one of them to shadow Mr. Layton when he left her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Elementary, my dear Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, don't tell me that Leighton back again?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, I think not. I should say that at the moment he's just about to walk out of the front door. No, I think we shall have another visitor. And judging by the commotion, the incoming and the outgoing visitors know each other and are not on the best of terms.

[Dr. Watson]

It sounds to me as if we're having a fight.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here comes Mrs. Hudson to tell us about it. Come in, come in.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Oh, Mr. Holmes, you've got another visitor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So I gathered. Mrs. Hudson, you gave my instructions to one of the boys.

[Mrs. Hudson]

I did that, sir. You, young Wiggins was going to follow the gentleman.

[Dr. Watson]

Mrs. Hudson, what was all that commotion about downstairs just now?

[Mrs. Hudson]

It was the two gentlemen shouting at each other. Him that was leaving and the one that was waiting on the doorstep.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And who is our new visitor, Mrs. Hudson.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Here's his card, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, thank you. Linton Cholmondeley in Iron Belgrave Square. Well, ask him to come up, will you, Mrs. Hudson?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Very well.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes, one thing more.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Yes, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please instruct another of the Baker Street Irregulars to follow this Linton chumbay when he leaves here and report to me.

[Mrs. Hudson]

All right, sir.

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[Dr. Watson]

You're taking no chances, Holmes. Huh? You're having this fellow shadow too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Layton is a potential murderer. Of that I'm convinced. This Mr. Cholmondeley might possibly be his intended victim. While we are talking to Him. Watson, old fellow, I want you to be sure to look at the condition of his eyes.

[Dr. Watson]

Certainly will.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come in. Oh, good evening, Mr. Cholmondeley.

[Dr. Watson]

Are you Mr. Sherlock Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I am. This is my colleague, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That was Wayne Layton that was just left here, wasn't it? Won't you sit down, sir? Thank you, I don't want to sit down. All right, you needn't answer my question, but I know it was Leighton. I have never met him, but I've seen his picture in the newspapers. Very well then, sir. It was Wayne Layton. Ah. I know why he came to you.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

He's.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He's trying to have me put out of the way while he closes that deal on the San Pedro and Guana concession. Now look here, Holmes, you've got to be on my side. Whatever fee he offered you to dispose of me, I'll double it if you'll take care of him for a few days. Dear me, this is becoming monotonous.

[Dr. Watson]

Watson, the hat and gloves.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you, old chap. That's right. Good night, Mr. Cholmondeley. Look here, Holmes, I'll treble his fee. I'll quadruple it. My dear Mr. Cholmondeley, I have accepted no fee from Mr. Layton. I don't propose to accept one from you. Your hat and glove, sir. That man is out to kill me, Holmes. Well, if you won't help me, I'll go to the police. That's an Excellent idea, Mr. Cholmondeley.

[Dr. Watson]

Again, good night.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you notice his eyes, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, the pupils were contracted.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He's obviously an opium addict and also a potential corpse.

[Dr. Watson]

What do we do now? Wait for the irregulars to report?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, you return home for your medical bag. I have a feeling that you'll need it before the night is out. Then come back here. I've gone. Before you return, I'll send one of the irregulars to bring you to wherever I may be. Wait until you receive a message from me. On your way, old chap. There's work ahead of us.

[Dr. Watson]

Wiggins, you're certain that this is the place that Mr. Holmes told you to bring me to?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, yes, Dr. Watson. The corner of Swandam Line and Brixell Street, Mr. Elms said.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, this is the spot, all right. I don't see any sign of him. Hello. This old woman coming towards us.

So that's the disguise each. Oh, spare me a few coppers, will you, mister?

[Mrs. Hudson]

My feet had something awful and I.

[Dr. Watson]

Ain'T had a bite of food all day. No, you Don't Holmes, you can't fool me this time. As a matter of fact, your makeup isn't very convincing. You hardly look like a woman. And nobody's nose could be quite as red as that. Don't look like a woman. Don't I?

[Mrs. Hudson]

My nose is too red, is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Or take that.

[Dr. Watson]

No, steady look now. Making fun of a poor old woman who's plighted me. Sorry madam, I didn't mean to insult you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well matey, she gave you a bit of work for all right, didn't she? Box your ears. No mistake about it.

[Dr. Watson]

You mind your own business. And anyhow, why aren't you aboard your ship at this time of night?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because I'm not a sailor, Watson. It's Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Great heavens, Holmes, I wish you you wouldn't confuse me like this. I'd never recognized you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear Watson, when you're able to recognize me it will indeed be the beginning of the end. When your eagle eye penetrates my disguise, I shall realize that my retirement is imminent. But enough of this. See that house opposite?

[Dr. Watson]

You mean the ramshackle place with the broken tiled roof?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. I gave the irregulars instructions to let me know at once if our two quarries ever enter the same house at the one time. They're inside there now. I'm going in after them.

[Dr. Watson]

Be careful, Holmes. I better come along with you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Can't I come too, Mr. Holmes? No, no, certainly not. We'll keep watch outside. If I need any help I'll smash one of the windows and then you can come in after me. Wait here for me. I don't expect I'll be very long.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll be here Holmes. Don't worry about me. Just take good care of your.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's one o', clock, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I know, Wiggins. He's been in there half an hour. I'm beginning to get worried. Strike going, Austin? No, no, no, Wiggins. You know Mr. Holmes, when he gives orders he likes some. There's the signal for help. Keep watching the house, Wiggins. I'll be out in five minutes. Go for the police. Right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your answer.

[Dr. Watson]

All right, Holmes, all right, I'm coming.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have searched my house from basement to aik. Why do you not give up? I tell you again, there has been no one here tonight.

[Dr. Watson]

But my friend came in here half an hour ago. I saw him. And before that two other men are known to have come in here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If that is so, then where are they? Three men cannot vanish.

[Dr. Watson]

That's just the point, you scoundrel. Out of the way. I'm going to search this hovel again. I'm not leaving here until I find Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

You'll hear the rest of Dr. Watson's story in just a second. And if you don't mind, I'll take that second to say just one word to the ladies. And that word is Muscatel. Petri California muscatel. I want you women to know about it because Petri muscatel is one wine that practically every woman likes. Maybe because it's such a beautiful color, like pale gold. But I guess really because Petri muscatel brings you the wonderful flavor of luscious sun ripened muscat grapes. And that's a flavor. Try Petri muscatel after dinner or anytime as a change from Petri port. Remember, if it's a Petri wine, you know it's a good wine.

And now back to Dr. Watson and tonight's story, the Eyes of Mr. Layton. Well, what happened next, Doctor? When you searched the house for the second time, did you find any trace of Sherlock holmes or the two rival businessmen?

[Dr. Watson]

No, Mr. Bartell, I'm a friend. I'm afraid I didn't.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

What did you do?

[Dr. Watson]

I told Wiggins to report the matter to the nearest police station and then rattled back to Baker street in a hansom cab as fast as I could. When I arrived at the old familiar doorstep, I wrenched at the bell in a frenzy of anxiety. Finally, the door opened and there stood Mrs. Hudson.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Dr. Watson. What is it, sir? Why, you're as white as a ghost.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Holmes. Is he here?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Aye, sir. Came in half an hour ago. Was dressed as a sailor and was half carrying some drunken friend of his.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, thank heavens he's safe. I'll go up.

[Mrs. Hudson]

All right, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now what's no chat?

[Dr. Watson]

There you are, Holmes. I can't tell you how glad I am to see you. Who's that lying on the sofa?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, I'll put you back, Watson. Oh, I'm afraid the poor devil's done for.

[Dr. Watson]

Great Scott. It's Wayne Layton, the American fella.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Knife wound between his ribs. See what you can do for him, will you?

[Dr. Watson]

Right. This is extraordinary, Holmes. You said that Leighton was a potential murderer and now he's a victim himself.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A biter bit, eh, old chap?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, he's still breathing, but he hasn't a chance. I'll try him with an injection of strychnine. Holmes, how did you get his body out of the house? I. I searched the place from top to bottom. I. I found no trace of any.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of you when I Went in, I found the stabbing had already taken place. The proprietor then bribed me, or rather the broken down cell he took me for to smuggle the body out through the secret stairway leading to the wall through the back of the house.

[Dr. Watson]

No trace of Cholmondeley there?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No. He must have left before me by the same exit.

[Dr. Watson]

Then you smashed the window and bolted.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. I knew that I could count on you to hold the fort while I was getting the body away.

Try to say something, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, the ejection's beginning to take effect.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, Mr. Leighton. What are you trying to say?

[Dr. Watson]

Tell us who stabbed you. Sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Lips are moving.

[Dr. Watson]

Mandalay.

He's dead, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, but he gave us the clue to the murderer's identity.

[Dr. Watson]

How?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In a word, he mumbled just before he died.

[Dr. Watson]

Sounded to me as if he said Mandalay.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Precisely, old fellow. Never did a corpse. Give us a clearer instruction as to our next and final move.

[Dr. Watson]

And that is?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Back to Limehouse, Watson. Back to Limehouse.

Ah, here we are. This must be the place.

[Dr. Watson]

What's this? Another opium den? Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I knew that since Cholmondeley refrained from smoking earlier on in the night in order to keep his faculties alert for murder, that an enormous reaction would set in. Have to find a den at once and beyond question a different one from that in which the murder was committed.

[Dr. Watson]

But how do you know that he's inside here?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, just before you returned to Baker street tonight, I had a message from one of my irregulars. He tracked him here after he escaped from the scene of the stabbing.

[Dr. Watson]

That was a couple of hours ago. He might have slipped away again.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, Watson. Tonight he came to drown his senses with a wretched dress. He'll be here. Come on.

[Dr. Watson]

That second injection of caffeine should bring him round. He's heavily drugged, but I think it'll work.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Surprising what a five pound note will do, isn't it? Yes, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Proprietor. Let us bring Chumley into his private room. And you.

He's coming too.

Who?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Who?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who are you?

[Dr. Watson]

Who? What?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you want? You remember me, sir? I'm Sherlock Holmes. Oh, yes, yes, I. I remember you. You are in serious trouble, Mr. Cholmondeley. Very serious trouble. Trouble? What, what trouble? Wayne Layton didn't die. He's badly wounded, but he's going to live. He's at Baker street now. He wants to go to the police and give evidence. You. You've got to get me out of this, Holmes. I'll pay you anything. 10,000. 20,000. Why did you stab Layton?

[Mrs. Hudson]

He.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He was in my Way I wanted, the San Pedro concession. I. I meant to kill him. But we can fix it up now, can't we, Holmes? We can fix it up now. Yes, we can fix it beautifully, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

As neat a murder. Confessing as ever I listened to Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exactly. Come along, Mr. Cholmondeley. I think night air will be good for you. We'll take you for a nice drive to Scotland Yard.

[Mrs. Hudson]

I brought you some kippers. Gentlemen. You've both been up all night, and I'm sure you can do it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's very thoughtful of you, Mrs. Hudson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, indeed it is.

[Mrs. Hudson]

What is Mrs. Watson going to say when she finds you've been out all night?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, don't you worry about that Mrs. Hudson. She's very understanding.

[Mrs. Hudson]

It's lucky for you that she is. Well, I'll go and leave you to your breakfast.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, dear fellow.

[Dr. Watson]

There's only one thing that puzzles me about this case.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, what's that?

[Dr. Watson]

When Leighton was dying, he muttered the word Manderley. How did that give you the key to the murderer's identity?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, the dead American had never met Mr. Cholmondeley, you remember, except when they bumped into each other in our hallway.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, he told us that he recognized him from the newspaper photograph.

[Sherlock Holmes]

American. He had no reason to know that the name Cholmondeley is in no way pronounced the way it is spelt.

[Dr. Watson]

I never thought of that. Cholmler. That name spelled C H, O, L, Chol M O, N, mon D E D, L, E, Y. Chol Mondele. Mondelet.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Precisely, old fellow. What you thought to be Mandalay was really Charles Mondeley, the name of the murderer.

[Dr. Watson]

Amazing case. You did a remarkable job, Holmes. I'm beginning to be confoundedly sleepy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why not sleep, old chap? Your old room's all ready for you.

[Dr. Watson]

Are you going to take a nap?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, dear me, no. I have much too busy a day ahead of me. Let me look at my engagement book.

Baxter Square Murder. I put the police on the track. The Duchess of Ferrers. I got her material. The princess who is about to run away from home. Good gracious me, let her run. The Pope's cameos. Ah, yes, yes. His Holiness must not be kept waiting.

[Dr. Watson]

Can. Can I help you again, Holmes? Mary doesn't return until tomorrow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, I thought you were sleepy, old fellow.

[Dr. Watson]

Sleepy? Rubbish. I never felt more wide awake in my life.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

That was a swell story, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

And it was really funny when you mistook that old lady for Holmes and she slapped your face.

[Dr. Watson]

It wasn't Very funny at all.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Sure it was. Come on, admit it, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, she did look like Holmes in disguise, you know. And you would have made the same mistake that I did.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Okay, okay.

[Dr. Watson]

Her nose was ridiculously red, and she did look like a man.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Look, Doctor, forget I ever said anything. I won't say another word. I'll keep my mouth closed forever.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, come on. I wouldn't do that. Mr. Bartel. Mr. Bartel. Won't you even open your mouth to finish your wine? Your. Your Petri wine?

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Okay, you win. You know, I'll open my mouth for Petri wine anytime. That Petri wine is always good wine. And for good reason, too. The Petrie family has always owned and operated the Petri business. They've been making fine wines for three generations, since way back in the 1800s. That adds up to a lot of experience. Experience handed on down from father to son, from father to son. The Petrie family really knows how to turn luscious California grapes into fragrant, delicious wine. And that's why, no matter what kind of wine you want, I'm sure you'll like it better if it's a Petri wine. Because Petri took time to bring you good wine. And now, Dr. Watson, what story are you going to tell us next week?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, now, next week, Mr. Bartel, I'm going to tell you a most unusual adventure that Holmes and I had in the heart of the English countryside. It concerns a corpse, a missing revolver, and a beautiful girl who was frightened of her own shadow.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

Tonight, Sherlock Holmes Adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and is based on an incident in the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story. The man with a twisted lip. 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 Company of San Francisco, California, invites you to tune in again next week, same time, same station.

Oh, the Petri family took the time.

[Dr. Watson]

To bring you such good wine. So when you eat and when you cook, remember Petri wine.

[Harry Bartell (Narrator)]

To make good food taste better. Remember Petrie.

This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petrie family. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

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