Sherlock Holmes: The Manor House Case 10/15/1945 (Rathbone & Bruce)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Sherlock Holmes: The Manor House Case" (10/15/1945)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Manor House Case
Date: October 15, 1945
Starring: Basil Rathbone (Sherlock Holmes) & Nigel Bruce (Dr. Watson)
Summary by: [Your Name/Date]

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Overview

This episode features a classic Sherlock Holmes radio drama, "The Manor House Case," in which Holmes must impersonate a wounded German diplomat to uncover the truth behind an assassination attempt. The story delivers a blend of international intrigue, mistaken identities, clever deduction, and a showcase of both Holmes and Watson’s detective talents, set against the looming backdrop of European diplomacy in the late 19th century.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

Introduction & Setup ([02:25]-[04:26])

• Dr. Watson begins narrating from his garden, reflecting humorously about the events he's about to recount.
• The story opens with a personal tone as Watson compares himself to a goldfish, foreshadowing a story where he feels outmaneuvered ("...remind me of how my face must have looked on a certain June evening in 1890." – Dr. Watson, 02:55).

Holmes' Secret Mission & Lestrade’s Appearance ([03:39]-[07:59])

• Holmes unexpectedly returns to Baker Street, preparing for a secret solo assignment, hinting it regards international stakes.
• Watson laments being left out but is quickly swept into another case when Inspector Lestrade arrives seeking Holmes’ help in an attempted bombing of German diplomat Graf Otto von Heldenstein. The secretary has been killed, and an international crisis looms.
• "A German diplomat, Graf Otto von Eldenstan is his name...somebody slipped past his guards and threw a bomb into his study." – Inspector Lestrade, [06:20]

Investigation at the Manor House ([08:25]-[16:53])

• Holmes has already arrived at the manor by secret summons, discovering von Heldenstein is injured and in hiding; only the loyal servant Franz knows the truth.
• Von Heldenstein requests Holmes impersonate him to conceal his injuries and root out the assassin:
  "You must impersonate me...within a few weeks your government and mine will conclude a treaty...in 24 hours time I shall be well enough to resume my work." – Von Heldenstein, [09:22]
• Holmes adopts the disguise, with beautifully ironic commentary on his "German" accent and appearance.
• Watson and Lestrade arrive to question suspects, encountering Holmes in disguise, who delivers a wry compliment:
  "In my country, many people think that you [Watson] are the real brains of the combination." – Holmes-as-Graf, [12:49]
• Suspects interviewed:
  • Colonel Schweiger (German embassy, claims to be outside with a guard)
  • Madame Lisa Verona (manor's owner, in her boudoir with Hilary Adams)
  • Hilary Adams (Home Office, confirms he was with Madame Verona)
• All suspects provide interlocking alibis.

First Attempted Solution & Bomb Attack on Watson ([16:53]-[20:44])

• Watson, suspecting drug addiction in Verona (pupils contracted), instructs Lestrade to investigate further.
• That evening, Holmes warns Watson to abandon the case for his own safety, moments before a second bomb explodes at Watson’s home.
  "Keep out of the von Heldenstein business if you value your life…there are dangerous forces at work." – Holmes, [18:38]

Return to Manor – The Final Confrontation ([20:16]-[26:42])

• Back at the manor, Watson (thinking Holmes is still the Graf) cross-examines the suspects about their whereabouts at the time of the second bombing.
• Alibis hold, but Watson astutely questions their validity – particularly Adams's, which relies on Madame Verona, a drug user whose perception could be flawed.
• A staged scene leads Watson to the wrong culprit, accusing the Graf (actually Holmes in disguise):
  "Eliminate the impossible, and whatever remains, no matter how improbable, is the truth. Therefore, the only person that could have thrown both bombs is yourself, Graf Otto von Heldenstein." – Watson, [24:46]
• Holmes reveals his identity and gently corrects Watson’s reasoning, pointing out that Adams’s alibi is invalid due to Verona’s drug confusion and reveals Adams as the traitor and murderer.
  "Eliminate the possible and then if nothing remains, some part of the impossible must be possible." – Holmes, [25:27]
• Holmes explains he’d suspected Adams all along based on intelligence from his brother, Mycroft Holmes.
  "He [Adams] was purposely given this assignment as a definite test of his integrity." – Holmes, [26:47]

Humorous Resolution & Reflections ([27:07]-[28:13])

• Watson frets about being outshone, only to be reassured by Holmes and Bartel that his contributions were invaluable.
• The mood ends jovially, with Dr. Watson ready to claim more credit for the case, and he and Bartel sharing laughter and a bottle of Petri wine.

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• Holmes’s gentle jibe at Watson’s steadfastness:
  "You're the one fixed point in a changing age. Empires are tottering, and you talk of tea and buttered scones." – Holmes, [04:11]
• Holmes, in disguise, playfully teasing Watson:
  "In my country many people think that you are the real brains of the combination...Is that true?" – Holmes (as Graf), [12:51]
• Watson’s moment of dramatic detection:
  "Elementary, my dear Lestrade. Elementary." – Watson, [21:24]
• Holmes’s revision of his famous dictum:
  "Eliminate the possible and then if nothing remains, some part of the impossible must be possible." – Holmes, [25:27]

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 02:25 – Dr. Watson begins the story
• 03:39 – Holmes introduces his secret mission
• 06:20 – Lestrade sets out the case
• 09:22 – Von Heldenstein asks Holmes to impersonate him
• 12:41 – Watson and Lestrade arrive at the manor; Holmes in disguise
• 16:53 – Lestrade and Watson regroup, suspecting Madame Verona
• 18:34 – Holmes warns Watson, a bomb explodes at Watson’s house
• 20:32 – Watson describes the second attack to “the Graf”
• 24:46 – Watson’s dramatic (and incorrect) accusation
• 25:27 – Holmes reveals the true solution
• 27:07 – Holmes consoles Watson; Bartel praises Watson
• 28:01 – Light-hearted finish, celebrating Watson’s role

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Tone & Original Flavor

The episode is rich in witty banter, ironic humility from Watson, Holmes's dry but affectionate superiority, and the melodramatic pacing of classic radio whodunits.

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For Listeners Who Missed the Episode

This episode delivers a signature Holmesian case: high-stakes diplomacy, assassination attempts, and deceptive alibis. The show cleverly uses disguise and misdirection—both in the case itself and in the interplay between Holmes and Watson. Ultimately, it’s Holmes who solves the mystery, but Watson’s earnestness and perseverance shine throughout. Listeners are treated to suspense, sharp dialogue, and a satisfying twist grounded in classic deductive logic.

Transcript

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[Harry Bartel]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio, where we.

[Dr. Watson]

Bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] this episode from the Life.

[Harry Bartel]

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 and 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 adventure he shared with his old friend, that master detective, Sherlock Holmes. And I sure wish you could listen to this story with a glass of Petri California port right at your elbow. Petri Port. That's the wine that's perfect after dinner when you're just taking things easy and say if you've never tried Petre port, if you've never tasted that wonderful, rich red wine, well, this is the week to do it. I'll tell you why this is National Wine Week, sort of a celebration we're having to mark the return to good living. Your wine merchant is kind of rolling out the red plush carpet this week, and among other things, he wants to prove to you that you just couldn't ask for a more delicious wine than Petri wine. Why don't you take him up on it and begin by becoming acquainted with Petri Port. You'll really love it, and so will your guests. And say you can serve Petri Port proudly, because after all, the name Petri is the proudest name in the history of American wines. That's a fact. Well, here's the patio of Dr. Watson's Northern California bungalow. But where's the doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Here I am, Mr. Barto, out in the garden.

[Harry Bartel]

Okay, I'll be right there. Oh, sitting by the fish pond, huh, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, my boy, it's rather pleasant out here for a change. Has it ever occurred to you how stupid the expression of a goldfish is, Mr. Bartel?

[Harry Bartel]

Well, I can't say I've ever given it much thought, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Why, see this foolish little fellow here with his silly Little mouth opening and closing as though he were constantly astonished.

[Harry Bartel]

What is this? I thought you were a fish lover.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I am. But as I was brooding over tonight's story, that goldfish seemed to be making faces at me as though it were trying to remind me of how my face must have looked on a certain June evening in 1890.

[Harry Bartel]

It sounds to me as if you're going to tell a story against yourself, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

I am, young fellow.

[Harry Bartel]

My lad, what happened?

[Dr. Watson]

One Sunday morning in 1890 I dropped round to visit my friend in Baker Street. Mrs. Hudson told me that he was out, but suggested that I wait in our old rooms for his return and promised me a pot of strong tea and some buttered scones as an inducement. As I walked into the sitting room I was astonished to see Holmes standing there, a bag in one hand and a coat in the other.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear chap, how are you?

[Dr. Watson]

I'm fine, Holmes. I'm surprised to see you though. Mrs. Hudson told me that you were out.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have been, Watson, on a case. I just returned by my private entrance for some, some necessary apparatus.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, can I come with you? My wife's away, you know. But my, my practice is quite slack at the moment.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not even my trusty old friend Watson can accompany me on this case. It's a ticklish business. The fate of two nations hangs in the balance. I must work alone. Sorry to leave you like this, old fellow.

[Dr. Watson]

Goodbye. Oh anyway, Mrs. Hudson's making me some tea and some battered scones. Can't you wait and share them with me?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good, good old Watson. You're the one fixed point in a changing age. Empires are tottering and you talk of tea and buttered scones.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh I'm sorry Mr. Beau. Goodbye old fellow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, don't look so sad, old fellow. The time is ripe. I'll tell you all about the case and you can write it up in your memoirs.

[Dr. Watson]

Goodbye old boy. Buttered scones. I haven't got any appetite for them now.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Did you enjoy the scones, Dr. Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

I'm afraid my appetite disappeared when Mr. Holmes left.

[Mrs. Hudson]

It did, did it? I see you've eaten them all. Just the same. I've got a surprise for you, Doctor. Inspector Lestrade is downstairs. He came to see Mr. Holmes, but when I told him he was out the Inspector said he'd like to see you.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, he did know. Splendid. Ask him to come up please, will you? Will you, Mrs. Hudson?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Aye sir. Will you come up please, inspector?

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Mrs. Hudson, can I butty up a few more scones?

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no, no, no thank you. I really couldn't eat them.

[Mrs. Hudson]

I'll just go and make some more the same. He'll eat them if I fix them, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no, really. Thank you. Ah, there you are, Lester.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Hello, Dr. Watson. Here's a pretty kettle of fish and no mistake.

[Dr. Watson]

Huh? What's the trouble? What?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, I want Mr. Holmes help on.

[Dr. Watson]

A most important case.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Where's he gone?

[Dr. Watson]

He's out on a very secret matter.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You know where he is, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Naturally I know where he is. Lestrade. My old friend never keeps me in the dark. But I'm not at liberty to tell you, Pepson. I could help you a bit. After all, I'm not exactly unfamiliar with my friend's methods.

[Inspector Lestrade]

That's true, but just the same. Oh well, Doctor, two heads are always better than one. Even if one is a sheepshead as me old mother used to say.

[Dr. Watson]

Are you suggesting that I'm a sheepshead?

[Inspector Lestrade]

No, I'm not suggesting anything Doctor. I'm just telling you what my old.

[Dr. Watson]

Mother used to say. I'm really not very interested in what your old mother used to say. And. And now Lestrade, your problem please.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, it's simple enough, Doctor. A German diplomat, Graf Otto von Eldenstan is his name, is in England on a very secret mission.

[Dr. Watson]

Graf Otto von Hendelstein? Yes, I. I've heard of him. Pray continue.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, this von Eldenstein staying at the manor house at Anton Wyck, not far out of London. This morning somebody slipped past his guards and threw a bomb into his study. His secretary was killed and he would have been too if it hadn't been that he'd left the room a few minutes earlier.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, these second hand investigations are very little useless. Dodd. We must both go down to the manor house at Hampton Wick and examine the situation on the spot. All right, get out the timetable and look up the next train, will you? Yeah, and while you're doing that I'll. I'll go and tell Mrs. Hudson where I'm going. Right. Yard doctor.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Here. The scones, Doctor. I was just bringing them up too.

[Dr. Watson]

Scums? Who can think of scones when an empire is tottering?

[Mrs. Hudson]

You're sure you're feeling quite well, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Of course I am. Now listen to me, Mrs. Hudson. If Mr. Holmes should return, please tell him that I have gone to Hampton Wick with Inspector Lestrade to investigate the von Heldenstein business.

[Mrs. Hudson]

The von heldenstein business? Aye, doctor. I'll tell him that.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Holmes didn't. Didn't tell you where he was going, did He.

[Mrs. Hudson]

No, Doctor, he didn't.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I see. All right. Well, thank you, Mrs. Hudson. Thank you.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Are you sure you don't want the scones, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, well, I might as well take him along. I dare say Lestrade could eat him.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Ah, you're the one, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I suppose this is rather exciting. Just the same, I wish I knew what Holmes was doing at this. Mom.

[Franz]

You are Herr Sherlock Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. I presume Graf Otto von Heltenstein is expecting me.

[Franz]

Jahe, Holmes. He was so anxious that you would come here to the manor house.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I left immediately after I got his summons.

[Franz]

He's very weak. He has lost much blood from the injuries he received this morning.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Injuries that no one knows about, eh?

[Franz]

Nine Hellholms. Only I, his old and faithful servant, knows. Follow me, please. I will take you to him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Franz?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Franz.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

Is that you, Franz?

[Franz]

Jah, Herr Graff. And with me is Herr Sherlock Holmes.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

Thank heaven you are here, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I hope I can be of service to you, sir.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

You can. You can be of great service. Sit close to my bedrooms. I have not much strength to speak.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm listening, Herr Graf.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

You must impersonate me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, so I gathered when I received your message.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

I am in England on the most delicate and important mission for the German government. Within a few weeks, your government and mine will conclude a treaty outlining the German and British spheres of interest in Africa.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. Obviously that bomb was thrown this morning by someone who does not wish the treaty to be concluded.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

Yeah, exactly, Herr Holmes. That is why you must impersonate me. In 24 hours time I shall be well enough to resume my work. In the meanwhile, you can keep the secret of my injuries and also have the opportunity of finding the assassin.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I am quite prepared to undertake the impersonation, sir. But how can I possibly hope to deceive the members of your personal staff?

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

With the exception of Franz here and poor Frulein Ulmeyer, who was killed in the explosion that injured me, my staff is new. They have joined me here from the German Consulate in London. They will believe that you are me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very well, sir, I'll try it.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

I have heard of your skill in the art of disguises. And also it seems to me, we are not so unlike each other.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was about to comment on that fact myself, sir. Yes, I think that a mustache and side whiskers will work wonders if I can make the accent reasonably convincing. I will coach you, my friend the Splendid. Help me off with my coat, will you? Franz, get me towels and a mirror.

[Franz]

Yeah.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Vol.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And while I'm Applying my makeup, Herr Graf, Perhaps you will be so good as to give me the complete circumstances regarding this morning's attempt on your life. If I'm to impersonate you successfully, I must have all the facts at my fingertips.

[Franz]

It is amazing here Holmes. Even I can hardly tell you from my master.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think it's the wig that puts the finishing touch to my disguise. How'd it look to you hair Graf?

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

Colossal. I feel as if I were looking into a mirror.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And my accent, you find it reasonably convincing?

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

Oh yeah, yeah, extremely. So try it once again. Herr Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ja. Herr Grafton, it gives me the greatest pleasure to do what you ask of me. Splendid Herholm, splendid.

[Franz]

A cab is drawn up at the gate. Two men are getting out. You can see them from the window here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's the police. Possibly. Or great Scott, it's Wattsman Lestrade.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

Friends of yours, Herr Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

One of them is my close colleague and the other is a detective inspector from Scotland Yard.

[Graf Otto von Heldenstein]

You must keep up the deception even with your friends.

[Sherlock Holmes]

As a matter of fact, my friend's investigations will prove an excellent mask for my own search for the assassin. But, well this is a delicious situation. I. I hope they won't recognize me. I am Groth. Otto von Heldenstein. Gentlemen, you wish to see me?

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do sir? My name is Watson, Dr. Watson and this is Inspector Lestrade.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Inspector, Dr. Watson. May I ask if I have the great distinction of addressing the Dr. Watson, friend of Sherlock Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

I'm very flattered that you know may her gruff.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But who does not know the great Dr. Watson? In my country many people think that you are the real brains of the combination. And tell me Herr Doctor, is that true?

[Dr. Watson]

Well I wouldn't exactly say that Simon.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of course you have both come here to investigate what occurred this morning?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Yes, we have sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Please sit down if you can find any furniture that is unbroken.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh thank you sir. I must say the place isn't a bit of a mess. And now Herr Grof, please tell us exactly what happened.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yeah, I will tell you everything Herr Doctor. This morning I was working in here with my secretary. Poor Fraulein Ulmar. I had occasion to go upstairs to my room to get some necessary papers. As I came down the staircase into return here, I heard a scream from Fraulein Ulmeyer. A moment later there was a most frightful explosion. The concussion stunned me. When I came to my poor secretary was dead.

[Inspector Lestrade]

What people were inside the house at the time of the explosion?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The servants were all at church. The only people here was my secretary who was Killed my servant Franz. I can vouch for him because he was upstairs when I went for my documents. There were three other people in the house however. Madame Lisa Varrona, my hostess and the owner of this house, a young Englishman from the Home office. His name is Hilary Adams. And the third person in the house was a member of the German Embassy, Colonel Schweiger.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, then it's just a matter of cross questioning the three of them as to their alibis at the time of the explosion. I'll take them one at a time. Lestard Ring for that servant fellow, what was his name?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Franz.

[Dr. Watson]

Franz.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's what I mean. This is a rare privilege to watch a master detective at work.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes Herr Grafa. I shouldn't be surprised if my methods teach you quite a bit about the the art of detection.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Herr Dr. Watson, this is Colonel Schwaiger of the German embassy.

[Dr. Watson]

Where were you, Colonel Schweiger, when the explosion occurred this morning?

[Harry Bartel]

I was discussing the military tactics of Clausewitz with one of the guards near the front gates.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Yeah, what was the name of the guards here?

[Harry Bartel]

Carter. Mr. Arty Carter.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Yeah, I'll check on that.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you. Colonel Schwager, please ask Madam Lissa Verona to come in with you.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Questions, questions, nothing but questions. Leave me alone.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, sorry madam. All I want to know is where were you when the explosion occurred this morning?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Where was I? In a boudoir listening to that stupid dabblings of the young Englishman Hilary Adams. When I offered you my house I did not know that I would have to put up with the love making of your staff. Everywhere.

[Dr. Watson]

He followed me. Now, now, now, now, please don't get so excited Madame Verona.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Questions, questions. Stupid young English puppies making calf eyes at me, My beautiful house blown to pieces and all you're doing.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Adams, where were you when the explosion occurred?

[Harry Bartel]

Madame Verona's suite.

[Dr. Watson]

You swear to that?

[Harry Bartel]

Of course I do.

[Dr. Watson]

You may ask her. I've already done so sir. Thank you Mr. Adams. Thank you. It's all you. You may go. Well Estrad, did you check on Colonel Schweiger's alibi?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Yes Doctor. He was telling the truth. He was talking to the Colonel when the explosion happened.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dear me, Herr Doctor, your examination has not been very successful, has it? Everyone has an alibi.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, but the alibis of Madame Verona and the young Englishman, Hilary Adams depend on each other's words. They might be lying. When you've been dealing with criminals as long as I have Herr Graf, you learn to look far deeper than the obvious. Yes, Lestrade, and I shall return To London now and make some inquiries. You will hear from me sir, before the day is over.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Ah, yes, well, I'm much obliged to you Doctor, for a very nice meal. Although we've been talking in circles.

[Dr. Watson]

Not entirely. Anyway. I have come to one important decision.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Oh, and what's that, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Madame Verona is addicted to the use of drugs. The pupils of her eyes were contracted to pinpoints. It's an invariable indication of drug addiction. Lestrade, you go to Scotland Yard and see what you can find out about her. And I'll go back to my house. You can meet me there later.

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[Dr. Watson]

I wish Mary wasn't away. It's a cook side out. Confounded. I can't see a thing. I'll strike a match. That's better. Hello. Who's that in the drawing room? Who is it?

[Mrs. Hudson]

Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I thought you'd never come.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes. Where on earth do you swing from?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Never mind that, old chap. I've come to warn you. Keep out of the von Heldenstein business if you value your life.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, how did you know that I was working on the case?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have time to tell you now, but I implore you, keep out of it. There are dangerous forces at work. Forces that would snuff out your life without a thought. Please believe me, old chap, and do as I. Quick, Watson, under the lightning.

[Harry Bartel]

You'll hear the rest of Dr. Watson's story in just a few seconds. All the time I need to remind you that what with this being National Wine Week, if you want to take a gift to a young lady, why not take her a bottle of Petri California muscatel. Petri muscatel is the kind of wine you'd serve a queen. That Petri muscatel has the flavor of plump sun ripened muscat grapes. And is it ever good. You couldn't ask for a more delicious after dinner wine. Or a more delicious wine to serve when company comes. Remember, it's muscatel. But the important thing is it's Petri. Petri muscatel. And now back to Dr. Watson and tonight's adventure. The Manor House case. That was a fine place to break off your story, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

I must say I thought I'd keep you in as much suspense as possible.

[Harry Bartel]

What happened next? Were you and Holmes injured when that bomb exploded?

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, my boy. Though the concussion of the explosion knocked me out for a few minutes. When I came to, Holmes had disappeared.

[Harry Bartel]

And I can imagine where he'd gone. Go on, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Soon after that, Lestrade arrived on the scene. And after a quick and fruitless examination of the premises, we decided to return once more to the manor house. And so an hour later I was telling my story to the man I still thought to be the Graf Otto von Heldenstern.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What? This is dreadful, Herr Doctor. De Bombe might easily have killed you.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I was ready for it, sir. Quick thinking and presence of mind. And my stock in trade, you know. When I heard the ghostly crash, I flung myself under the dining room table.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm most distressed that you yourself should be exposed to such danger.

[Dr. Watson]

Not at all, Herr Garf. As a matter of fact, I exposed myself deliberately to the attack. An old army trick. You know, what we call drawing the enemy's fire.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Come now, Doctor. You don't mean to tell us that you expected to have that bomb chucked through the window at you?

[Dr. Watson]

Of course I did. Lestrade the assassin, knew that I was working on the case. He followed me to London and fell into my trap just as I intended him to. By showing his hand.

[Inspector Lestrade]

I don't see where he's got you, Doctor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I myself must admit I cannot see that you are any nearer to finding the murderer.

[Dr. Watson]

On the contrary, sir, the case is not nearly solved.

[Inspector Lestrade]

I don't see how you figure that one out, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Elementary, my dear Lestrade. Elementary. One of the three people under suspicion followed me to my house tonight. The second bomb was thrown at approximately 7:00'. Clock. Now it's only a question of finding which one of the three cannot account for his movements at that time. Then we shall know the murderer.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You want to cross examine them again, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes. The Scarlet. Bring them in, please. One at a time. Colonel Schwager, where were you at seven o' clock tonight?

[Harry Bartel]

Discussing the military tactics of Clausewitz with Mr. Carter, the home Office guards.

[Dr. Watson]

Great Scott, that's what you're doing at 11 o' clock this morning too.

[Harry Bartel]

It would take many days of discussion for two students to appreciate all the subtleties of Clausewitz.

[Inspector Lestrade]

I'll check on that again, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you. Le. And please ask Madame Verona to come in with you.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Questions, questions and still more questions. Where was at 7 tonight? You asked me. I was listening to more Babblings from that stupid young Englishman. Ask him for yourself.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Adams, where were you at seven tonight?

[Inspector Lestrade]

With Madame Verona and her boudoir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There is a curious sameness about the pattern of life in this house, is there not here, Doctor?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, I checked on Colonel Schweiger's statement. It was true. He was talking to Carter at 7:00'. Clock.

[Dr. Watson]

All right.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, could the other two account for themselves, Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Once again they alibi for each other, but this time I begin to doubt them.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, why? Why do you say that, Herr Doctor?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I would accept Madame Verona's alibi for young Adams. Obviously she loathes the boy and wouldn't perjure herself for him. On the other hand, he worships her. And I'm certain that he wouldn't have any scruples about lying to provide an alibi for her.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You got a point there, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I regard her with great suspicion. Yes, come in. Yes, Mr. Adams.

[Harry Bartel]

Dr. Watson. I've been worrying about Madame Verona. I was afraid you wouldn't believe my alibi for her. Indeed, I have another, an unbiased witness who can testify that Madame Verona was in this house at seven tonight.

[Dr. Watson]

Come in, France.

[Harry Bartel]

Franz, did you see Madame Verona at seven tonight?

[Franz]

Yeah, I take up two glasses of sherry to her. It was a few minutes before seven.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you, France. Thank you, Mr. Adams. I appreciate your concern. You may go.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Seems to me we're still traveling in circles, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

On the contrary, my dear Lestrade. The case is solved.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed. You astonish me, Herr Doctor. Who is the guilty party?

[Dr. Watson]

You will know in a minute, sir, lest. Crowd Bring the three suspects in here, please. When they are assembled, I will give you the solution to the mystery. Ladies and gentlemen, the mystery is solved. And I must apologize for any little convenience inconvenience that you've undergone. You, Madame Verona, you, Colonel Schweiger, and you, Mr. Adams, have all unshakable alibis. Therefore, the solution's obvious. As my dear friend Sherlock Holmes has often said, eliminate the impossible and whatever remains, no matter how improbable, is the truth. Therefore, the only person that could have thrown both bombs is yourself, Graf Otto von Heldenstein.

[Inspector Lestrade]

George. I believe you're right, Doctor.

[Dr. Watson]

What have you got to say for yourself?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That I, too, Herr Doctor, have an unshakable alibi.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, what is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was with you, Herr Doctor, when the second bomb was thrown.

[Dr. Watson]

What on earth you talking about? I was alone, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, come now, old fellow. That's not true.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes.

[Inspector Lestrade]

What?

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, how could you? Mysterious.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, strike me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't Be angry with me, old chap.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, you made a complete not.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You got the real solution to the case as usual, Mr.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, Mr.

[Dr. Watson]

I have. Well, let's hear it then. Might as well show me up.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, my go, Watson, stop berating yourself. You really handle the case very well. You made only one mistake. May I revise that dictum of mine which you just quoted? Eliminate the possible, and then if nothing remains, some part of the impossible must be possible.

[Dr. Watson]

Which part?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Colonel Schmeicher's alibi was valid. So was Madame Verona's, since it was corroborated by the trustee, France. But what does your ALIBI Rest on, Mr. Adams?

[Harry Bartel]

Madame Verona's told you I was here at seven.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, but Madame Verona is addicted to the use of drugs. I'm sure that you spotted that back, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, yes, I did.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your mistake, old chap, was in not drawing the correct conclusion. Mr. Adams Alibi depends on the unsupported word of a drug addict. Now, the use of drugs notoriously destroys first of all the sense of time. Any trick such as the resetting of clocks could be worked on her without her noticing her word on a time alibi is completely valuable.

[Dr. Watson]

Then Adams is a man.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Fools meddlers, why don't you? He's a murderer and a traitor. Well, now that we're back in Baker Street, Watson, I may as well tell you that I had my suspicions of Adams from the first.

[Dr. Watson]

You did? Why?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, my brother Mycroft had told me that he was suspected of being a traitor at heart. He's been under observation for some years. He was purposely given this assignment as a definite test of his integrity.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I understand it. All in our homes it's the same. I did make it ask for myself in front of Lerad, too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't worry about it, old chap. Please don't worry. You. You always can correct that impression, you know. Yours will be the last word, huh?

[Dr. Watson]

How do you mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, when you come to write this story in your memoirs, my dear fellow, you can always do a little what you say re editing of your own part. Posterity never read.

[Harry Bartel]

Doctor, that was really a swell stuff.

[Dr. Watson]

I'm glad you liked it. Sort of made me out of a bit of a fool, though.

[Harry Bartel]

Oh, nothing of the kind, Doctor. I agree with Holmes. You did a splendid job. After all, you. You did line up his suspects for him, didn't you?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, come to figure it, yes. Yes, of course I did.

[Harry Bartel]

And you did make the point that Madame Verona was a drug addict.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, so I did.

[Harry Bartel]

And you did say that Mr. Adams alibi could be a lie.

[Dr. Watson]

I. Joe, you're right. I did solve that case for holmes after all. Mr. Bartell, did anyone ever tell you that you're really a very smart young man? I wish you and I could work on a case together.

[Harry Bartel]

We can. Starting tonight.

[Dr. Watson]

No, really.

[Harry Bartel]

Sure. In celebration of National Wine Week, I brought you a case of Petri wine. And I suggest we start on it right now with a glass of port.

[Dr. Watson]

What a fellow.

[Harry Bartel]

What a wine. Petri wine. We know that's really good because the Petri family has been making fine wine since the 1800s. For generations, ever since they started the Petri business, the Petri family has been turning luscious California grapes into fragrant, delicious wine. And during all that time, they've been handing on down from father to son, from father to son, all their skill and knowledge and experience. The Petri wine you buy today is the result of all that skill and knowledge and experience. That's why you can't go wrong when you choose a Petri wine. Because Petrie took time to bring you good wine. And now, Dr. Watson, what's the prescription for next week's story?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, let me see. Next week, Mr. Bartell, I think I can promise you a most entertaining adventure. It concerns a famous magician, a female spy of unusual beauty and a man even more brilliant than Holmes himself. His older brother, Mycroft.

[Harry Bartel]

Sounds terrific, Doctor. And before we say goodnight to our friends, I want to remind them that our men overseas need the merchant marine to bring them back home. The merchant marine got him there, and it'll bring them back if you help. Right now, the merchant marine needs experienced mates, engineers, ABs, firemen, oil or water tenders, and chief cooks, if you qualify. Write or wire, collect at once to Merchant Marine, Washington 25 DC. Bring the boys home. Tonight. Sherlock Holmes Adventure is written by Dennis Green and Anthony Boucher and was suggested by an incident in the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story, the Greek interpreter. Mr. Rathbone appears through the courtesy of Betro 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. This is Harry Bartel saying good night for the Petri family. Sherlock Holmes comes to you from our Hollywood studios. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.