Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge 10/01/1945

Summary

Podcast Summary

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge (10/01/1945)
Aired: December 11, 2025
Featured Cast:

• Sherlock Holmes (Basil Rathbone)
• Dr. Watson (Nigel Bruce)
• Host: Harry Bartell

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Overview

This episode presents a dramatized adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s "The Problem of Thor Bridge." Dr. Watson recounts one of Sherlock Holmes’ most curious cases—unraveling whether a beautiful governess, Grace Dunbar, is truly guilty of murdering her employer’s wife, or whether a web of circumstance and cunning deception concealed the truth. With Holmes’ signature logic and a dash of dramatics, the action moves from foggy Baker Street to a stately English manor, culminating in a remarkable solution.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Progression

1. Case Introduction & Early Theories

• Setting the Scene (03:09–04:33): Dr. Watson describes an autumn morning in the 1890s, his anticipation of a new case, and Holmes’ unexpectedly buoyant mood.
• Client’s Arrival (06:43–08:17): Neil Gibson, a powerful mining magnate, seeks Holmes' help, convinced his children’s governess, Grace Dunbar, is innocent of his wife’s murder.
• Holmes’ First Assessment (06:33–08:17):

  "My dear sir, the case is difficult enough without your giving me false information."
  —Sherlock Holmes to Neil Gibson [08:00]

2. Establishing Suspicions & Motivations

• Triangle of Jealousy (07:29–10:16): Neil Gibson admits his affection for Grace Dunbar; hints at his wife’s intense jealousy.
• Evidence Review (03:20–06:02, 16:34–17:42): A revolver matching the murder bullet is found in Dunbar’s wardrobe; the victim was lured by a note, allegedly written by Dunbar.

  "So the coroner thought. And to make the case even blacker against Ms. Dunbar the dead woman had a note on her making an appointment at that very spot and the note was signed by the governess."
  —Sherlock Holmes [05:52]

3. On-Site Investigation

• Local Police Cooperation (11:24–12:52): Sergeant Coventry hints at suspicions about Neil Gibson, noting the murder weapon was part of his collection.
• Thor Bridge Scene (12:57–14:34): Holmes and Watson inspect the site, noting physical evidence: the note clutched tightly in the victim’s hand and an unusual fresh chip in the stonework of the bridge.

  "If the letter is genuine it was certainly received some time before the tragedy... Why should she carry it so carefully? ...Doesn't it strike you as rather strange?"
  —Sherlock Holmes [13:52]

4. Discrepancies in Evidence

• Revolver Placement (16:54–17:42): Holmes reasons that an intelligent murderer would never hide the weapon in her own wardrobe.

  "When a crime is coolly premeditated then the means of covering it are coolly premeditated also."
  —Sherlock Holmes [17:26]

5. Interview with Grace Dunbar – The Accused

• Her Story (19:04–21:30): Grace describes her relationship with Mrs. Gibson: "She hated me with all the passion of her distorted mind." [19:31]. She burned the note summoning her to the bridge as instructed. She recounts Mrs. Gibson’s wild, accusatory behavior, insists she never heard a gunshot and knew nothing of the revolver until it was discovered.
• Timeline Gaps (21:17–21:38): Dunbar details possible opportunities for the pistol to be planted in her room.

6. Holmes’ Epiphany

• Breakthrough at Thor Bridge (22:06–25:51): Inspired by the broken stonework under the bridge, Holmes reconstructs the scenario using string, a stone, and Watson’s revolver:

  "There's your answer Watson. The revolver flashed back out of your hand, struck the parapet of the bridge and the weight of the stone flipped it over into the water."
  —Sherlock Holmes [24:44]

• Revelation (25:02–25:50): Holmes deduces that Mrs. Gibson committed suicide, crafting a frame-up to incriminate the innocent governess.

7. Resolution & Reflections

• Case Closed (25:51–26:22): Holmes explains how Mrs. Gibson faked evidence against Dunbar by placing a second revolver in her wardrobe and clutching the note too deliberately.
• Holmes’ Modesty (26:15–26:43):

  "I disagree old chap... I've been sluggish in my mind and wanting in that mixture of imagination and reality which is the very basis of my art."
  —Sherlock Holmes to Watson

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Holmes rebuffing arrogant client Neil Gibson:

  "I dislike liars Watson and I cannot tolerate arrogance particularly when it's coupled with great wealth."
  —Sherlock Holmes [08:33]

• Watson’s classic awe:

  "You're a blooming magician, Mr. Holmes, that's what you are. A blooming magician."
  —Dr. Watson [26:48]

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 03:06 – Introduction of the murder case
• 06:43 – Neil Gibson’s aggressive arrival
• 13:08 – Analysis of the note found with Mrs. Gibson
• 14:17 – Holmes’ discovery of unusual stonework at Thor Bridge
• 19:04 – Interview with Grace Dunbar in prison
• 22:06 – Holmes’ sudden insight at Thor Bridge
• 24:44 – Holmes’ reenacts the mechanical suicide with stone, string, and revolver
• 25:02–25:50 – Holmes explains the entire mechanism of the suicide and the frame-up
• 26:48 – Watson’s “magician” compliment

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Tone & Storytelling

The episode captures the refined, slightly playful banter between Holmes and Watson, an undercurrent of British wit, and the high drama of a Golden Age radio mystery. Basil Rathbone’s Holmes is razor-sharp, impatient with dishonesty, while Nigel Bruce delivers Watson with warmth, admiration, and the occasional comic aside.

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Final Thoughts

Listeners are treated to a classic locked-room style puzzle, neatly wrapped with Holmes’ deductive flair—showcasing not just logic, but a keen understanding of human nature and misdirection. The episode balances suspense, character study, and a satisfying whodunnit twist, making it a standout entry in the "New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" series.

Transcript

[A]

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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] this episode from the Life of Sherlock Holmes will be transmitted to our men and women overseas by short wave 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 Petri 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 while you're settling back comfortably in your chair, mind if I tell you about something I'd like you to share with me? It's a glass of Petri California Sherry. Of course, most people think of Petri California Sherry as the one wine that's really swell anytime. But personally, I like a glass of that Petri sherry just before dinner. You know, that's the time you're a little on edge. You've just finished your day's work and you're waiting for your dinner. And, well, that's when you want to lean back and take it easy. And, boy, that's the time a glass of Petri sherry tastes like something just too good to be true. Try it. Petri sherry is the perfect before dinner wine. And incidentally, if you like your sherry dry, you know, not sweet, then you'll find that Petri pale dry sherry is just made for you. The important thing is the Petri label, because when it says Petri, it always means good wine.

And now for our weekly visit with our good friend and host, Dr. Watson. Good evening, doctor.

[B]

Good evening, Mr. Bartell. You're a bit late. I've been keeping some dinner hot for you. Here, pull up your chair and join me.

[A]

That's very nice of you. Thanks, Doctor. Are you all set with tonight's story?

[B]

Yes, my boy, I'm all set, as you call it. As a matter of fact, I was going over my notes on the case just before you arrived.

[A]

Last week. You hinted that a beautiful girl figured prominently in your adventure.

[B]

That's quite right Mr. Bartell. An extremely beautiful girl. In fact I often used to say to Sherlock Holme that if I'd been a little younger at the time I might. Oh well, you haven't come here to listen to my personal reminiscences. You want to hear the story that I called the Problem of Tor Bridge.

[A]

That's what you promised us Doctor. How did it begin?

[B]

On a windy morning in October in the 1890s. It was. As I was dressing I observed how the last remaining leaves were being whirled away from the solitary plane tree which graced the yard behind our Baker street house. I descended to breakfast prepared to find my companion in depressed spirits. For like all great artists he was easily impressed by his surroundings. But to my surprise he was in an unusually gay mood. As I entered the room he looked up at me and with a. With a smile.

[C]

Good morning my dear fellow. Hope you slept well.

[B]

Splendidly Hank. Tom, I'm so glad your very solicitors this morning I. I think you must have got a new case, am I right?

[C]

The faculty of deduction is certainly contagious. Yes, I have a new case. After a month of trivialities and stagnation the wheels revolve once more.

[B]

Good. Tell me all about it.

[C]

Well as yet there isn't much to tell. Have you ever heard of Neil Gibson?

[B]

Neil Gibson? Oh yes. It has something to do with gold mining. Isn't he?

[C]

A great deal to do with it my dear fellow. In fact he's considered the greatest mining magnet in the world. About five years ago he bought a large estate in Hampshire. Perhaps you've read of the tragic death of his wife.

[B]

Oh yes, of course, I remember the case now. She was murdered by a jealous governess who was in her employ, wasn't she?

[C]

That point will be decided when the lady in question, Grace Dunbar I believe her name is, comes up for trial at the forthcoming Winchester assizes. In any case it's hard for me to see what I can do for my client at this late date.

[B]

Your client?

[C]

Oh yes, I forgot I hadn't told you. I'm getting into your involved habit of telling a story backwards. Better read. This letter came this morning.

[B]

Well let's have a look. Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, Ms. Dunbar is innocent. I can't see the finest woman in the world go to her death without doing everything possible to save her. I shall call on you at 10:30 tomorrow morning to discuss the matter. Yours faithfully, Neil Gibson. Good gracious me.

[C]

There you have it Watson. That is the gentleman I Await.

[B]

Do you know anything about his dead wife?

[C]

Only what I've been reading in the papers. Apparently she was past her prime. Which was the more unfortunate as this Ms. Dunbar who superintended the education of the two young children is reputed to be a very attractive young lady.

[B]

The eternal triangle eh? Where did the murder take place?

[C]

On Gibson's estate in Hampshire. His wife was found in the grounds nearly half a mile from the manor house late at night clad in her dinner dress with a shawl over her shoulders and a revolver bullet through her brain.

[B]

Any weapon found near her?

[C]

No, there were no clues found at the scene of the crime.

[B]

What made them suspect the governess?

[C]

Well in the first place there was some very incriminating evidence. A revolver with one discharged chamber, the caliber corresponding with a bullet in the dead woman's head was found on the floor in Ms. Dunbar's wardrobe.

[B]

Oh was it? Pretty damaging evidence Holmes.

[C]

So the coroner thought. And to make the case even blacker against Ms. Dunbar the dead woman had a note on her making an appointment at that very spot and the note was signed by the governess.

[B]

It seems obvious that the girl's guilty. The motive's clear. Mr. Gibson would be a great catch for a young girl. Love, fortune, power, all dependent on one life.

[C]

Possibly Watson but circumstantial evidence can be very misleading at times. Now as the gentleman in question, unless I'm very much mistaken, considerably before his time.

[B]

I can see him from the window here. Formidable looking fellow. Must be well over six foot tall.

[C]

Judging by the way he's wrenching at that doorbell. He's a man with a violent temper.

[B]

Mrs. Hudson's opening the door to him now.

[C]

Meet him on the st will you old chap? It'll save Mrs. Hudson a journey.

[B]

Up here Sir. Thank you Ms. Hudson. It's all right.

[D]

Are you Mr. Sherlock Holmes?

[B]

No, no indeed. I'm his colleague, Dr. Watson. Come along in won't you?

[C]

Mr. Neil Gibson I presume?

[D]

That's right. So you're the great Sherlock Holmes, huh?

[C]

The adjective is your own Mr. Gibson. Sit down won't you? By the way, you may speak quite freely in front of Dr. Watson.

[D]

Well I may as well begin by telling you that money means nothing to me in this case. You can burn it if it's any use to you in lighting the truth. Ms. Dunbar is innocent and it's up to you to prove it.

[C]

Just Name your fee Mr. Gibson. My professional charges are on a fixed scale. I don't vary them except when I omit them altogether.

[D]

Very well. I Imagine that. You've read the newspaper reports of the coroner's inquest?

[C]

Yes, very thoroughly.

[D]

I don't see that I can add anything that'll help you but if there are any questions you'd like to ask I'll answer them.

[C]

Thank you. First, what were the exact relations between you and Ms. Dunbar?

[D]

I suppose you're within your rights in asking such questions, Mr. Holmes?

[C]

We will agree to suppose so. Shall we then?

[D]

I can assure you that my relations with Ms. Dunbar were always those of an employer towards a young lady with whom he never conversed or even saw except in the company of his children.

[C]

Oh, rather a busy man Mr. Gibson and I have no time or taste for aimless conversation. I wish you good morning.

[D]

What the devil do you mean by this Mr. Holmes?

[C]

My dear sir, the case is difficult enough without your giving me false information.

[D]

Meaning that I Lies.

[C]

I was trying to express it as delicately as possible but if you insist on the word I won't contradict you.

[D]

Why you confound me.

[C]

Don't be noisy Mr. Gibson. Please don't be noisy. I find that after breakfast even the smallest argument is unsettling. I suggest that a stroll in the morning air and a little quiet thought will be greatly to your advantage.

[D]

I suppose I can't make you take the case but you've done yourself no good this morning, Mr. Holmes. I've broken stronger men than you. No man ever crossed me and was the better for.

[C]

Good morning Mr. Gibson.

[B]

You've a great deal yet to learn my soul, Holmes. You were unusually severe with him.

[C]

I dislike liars Watson and I cannot tolerate arrogance particularly when it's coupled with great wealth.

[B]

Well how did you know about his relations with the governor?

[C]

I didn't. It was pure bluff.

[B]

Bluff? Well it certainly worked. Think he'll come back?

[C]

Of course he will. He needs my help too badly. He'll probably change his mind before he's halfway down the stairs.

[B]

Come in.

[C]

Ah, Mr. Gibson. Just saying to Dr. Watson that I was certain you'd be back.

[D]

I've been thinking it over Mr. Holmes and I feel that perhaps I was hasty in taking your remarks amiss. Just the same I can assure you that the relations between Ms. Dunbar and me really don't affect this case.

[A]

Surely?

[C]

That is for me to decide Mr. Gibson.

[B]

You see Mr. Gibson, my friend is like a doctor. He wants every symptom before he can give his diagnosis.

[D]

Fire away, Mr. Holmes. What is it you want to know?

[C]

The truth.

[D]

I can give it to you in very few words. To begin with I met My wife when I was gold mining in Brazil.

[B]

Your wife was Brazilian by birth, wasn't she sir?

[D]

Yes doctor, and very beautiful. Well to make a long story short I fell in love and married her and brought her to England. After a few years I realized that we had nothing, absolutely nothing in common.

[C]

And then I suppose this young governess, Ms. Dunbar arrived on the scene.

[D]

That's right Mr. Holmes. Well the story should be obvious to you from there.

[B]

You fell in love with this girl I suppose sir, who could help it?

[C]

Did you suggest marriage to her?

[E]

Yes.

[D]

Though I knew that my wife would never divorce me.

[C]

I see. Then you made an utterly insincere proposition to her.

[D]

Now look here Mr. Holmes, I came to you on a question of evidence not of morals. I'm not asking for your criticism.

[C]

It's only the young lady's sake that forces me to touch your case at all. Now tell me sir, what is your own opinion as to Ms. Dunbar's guilt?

[D]

It's very black against her. I can't deny that one explanation of the tragedy did come into my head. Mr. Holmes. I give it to you for what it's worth.

[C]

Pray continue Mr. Gibson.

[D]

My wife was bitterly jealous. She was half crazy with hatred. She might have planned to murder Ms. Dunbar or we'll say to threaten a girl with a revolver and so frighten her into leaving us. There might have been a struggle in which the gun exploded and gone off and shot my wife who was holding it.

[C]

Well that possibility has already occurred to me. It's the only obvious alternative to deliberate murder.

[B]

The revolver Holmes was found on the floor of the governess's wardrobe.

[C]

Mr. Gibson, I should like to examine your house and the scene of the murder as soon as possible.

[D]

Certainly Mr. Holmes. Sergeant Coventry of the local police is still down there. He'll give you any help you may need.

[C]

Excellent Watson old fellow. I'm out for the timetable. We're catching the next fast train to Winchester.

[E]

So if I have to have someone else on the case I'd rather have you Mr. Holmes. The yard gets called in then then we local police loses all credit for success. Generally gets blamed for the failures. Though I've heard that you play straight.

[C]

I no appear in the matter at all Sergeant Coventry, if I can clear it up. I don't ask to even have my name mentioned.

[E]

That's handsome of you. I'm sure not. I know your friend Dr. Watson can be trusted too.

[B]

Don't worry my dear fellow, we won't steal any of your thunder.

[E]

That's nice and friendly of You Doctor. Well come on gentlemen, I'll walk you down to the bridge. That's where we found Mrs. Gibson's body. It's not far from the house here.

[B]

Well I must say Mr. Gibson has a beautiful estate. It must be 60 or 70 acres.

[E]

Oh nearly twice that Doctor. The which back of the house there belongs to him too. Mr. Holmes?

[C]

Yes Sergeant?

[E]

There's a question I'd like to ask you. Question I wouldn't ask anyone else.

[C]

Then please ask it.

[E]

Don't you think there might be a case against Mr. Gibson himself sir?

[C]

I've been considering that possibility but there.

[E]

Ms. Dunbar's a bit of all right if you ask me. He wanted his wife out of the way and the pistol she was shot with was his pistol you know.

[B]

Oh was, was that fact proven?

[E]

Yes Doctor, it was one of a pair that he had.

[C]

One of a pair? Where's the other?

[E]

Well Mr. Gibson has a lot of firearms. We never quite matched that particular pistol. But the box was made for two.

[B]

Well if it was one of a pair surely you'd be able to match it?

[E]

Well we have them all laid out at the house if you want to look them over.

[C]

We'll do that later.

Ah, this I presume is Tor Bridge?

[E]

That's right sir. Found Mrs. Gibson's body lying right here at the approach to the bridge.

[C]

I see. I gathered from the newspaper reports that the shot was fired at very close quarters.

[E]

Yes sir, very close.

[C]

Near the right temple wasn't it?

[E]

Just behind it sir.

[B]

How did the body lie Sergeant?

[E]

Oh on spec Doctor. No trace of a struggle, no marks, no weapon. The note from Ms. Dunbar was clutched in her left hand.

[C]

Clutched you say?

[E]

Yes sir. We could hardly open the fingers to get at it.

[C]

Ah, that's of greatest importance. It excludes the idea that anyone could have placed the note there after death in order to furnish a false clue.

[B]

What did the note say Sergeant?

[E]

Little enough Doctor. It just said I will be at tor Bridge at 9 o'.

[B]

Clock.

[E]

And it was signed Grace Dunbar.

[C]

Ms. Dunbar admit writing it?

[E]

Oh yes sir.

[C]

What was her explanation?

[E]

She wouldn't say nothing. Said she was saving her defense for the trial.

[C]

Yes, it seems odd that Mrs. Gibson was still clutching that note.

[B]

Seems perfectly natural to me.

[C]

Oh come now old fellow, argue the thing out logically. If the letter is genuine it was certainly received sometime before the tragedy, say an hour or two. Why then was the dead woman still clasping it in her left hand? Why should she carry it so carefully? She certainly didn't need to refer to the note at all at the interview. Doesn't it strike you as rather strange?

[B]

Well now you put it that way it does seem a little peculiar.

[C]

Hello.

Did you notice this Sergeant?

[E]

Oh you mean that chip out of that stone on the underside of the parapet of the bridge, sir? Yes I noticed it. Didn't think nothing of it though.

[B]

A very large chip.

[C]

Yes, but it's been done recently. Notice how the stonework is white just here.

[B]

It took some violence to do that.

[C]

Hand me a cane Watson, will you?

[B]

Here you are Willet.

[A]

Thanks.

[C]

Yes, it's a hard knock and in a curious place too.

[E]

But it's 15ft from where we found the body. Mr. Elms.

[B]

Yes, Holmes. I don't see how it could have any connection with Mrs. Gibson's murder.

[C]

It hasn't, but it's a point worth noting. There were no footprints you say Sergeant?

[E]

None Mr. Holmes. The ground was as hard as our and it's been a very dry summer and we haven't had any rein to speak of it.

[C]

Yes, pretty well Sergeant, I'm much obliged to you. And now I think we'll get back to the house.

[E]

Cesar. I'll show you where the firearms are, sir.

[C]

Oh, who is Cesar?

[E]

Funny, kind of a bloke. Brazilian he is.

[C]

Brazilian, eh? Like Mrs. Gibson?

[E]

Yes Mr. Holmes. Comes from the same town that she does as a matter of fact. Something very fishy about him if you ask me. Now if you'll excuse me gentlemen I'm going to take a little stroll around the grounds. You started me on a new train of thought in this case Mr. Rome.

[C]

I'm delighted Sergeant. Get back to the house.

I see. And these are all the firearms in Mr. Gibson's possession? I say sir, except for the revolver.

[A]

That is missing from the case. Yes, so I say. I see him.

[B]

I've never seen such a collection of guns and revolvers in my life.

[A]

Mr. Gibson had many enemies, senor.

[C]

He always sleep with a loaded pistol beside his bed.

[A]

She's a man of great violence. There have been times when all of us were afraid of him.

[C]

Did you ever witness physical violence towards Mrs. Gibson?

[A]

No senor, I cannot say that I have. But I have heard him say many.

[C]

Terrible things to her.

[A]

She would taunt her in front of we servants. I have heard him do it many times.

[C]

Thank you Cesar.

[A]

That will be all mounted.

[B]

You know Holmes, I still think the case against Ms. Dunbar looks very black.

[C]

I should agree with you if it were not for one fact. The finding of the revolver in her wardrobe.

[B]

Holmes, that seems to me the strongest.

[C]

Evidence of all, I think not old chap. We must look for consistency.

Where there is a want of it we must suspect deception.

[B]

I don't quite follow you.

[C]

Suppose for a moment that we visualize you in the character of a woman who in cold premeditated fashion is about to murder a rival. You planned it. A note has been written. The victim has come. You have a weapon. The crime is well done. It has been workmanlike and complete. You mean to tell me that after carrying out your crafty a crime you'd be so stupid as to forget to fling the incriminating revolver to the bottom of the stream or perhaps in the dense reeds that border it. Would you carefully carry it home and put it in the first place that would be searched?

[B]

Your wardrobe perhaps in the excitement of the moment?

[C]

One My dear chap, I won't admit that's even possible. When a crime is coolly premeditated then the means of covering it are coolly premeditated also.

[B]

Well then if Ms. Dunbar didn't shoot Mrs. Gibson, who the devil did?

[C]

I hope I can give you the answer to that question Watson when we've made one further visit.

[B]

Oh Lord. Where are we going now?

[C]

To prison old chap.

[B]

Prison?

[C]

Yes, we are going to Winchester Prison to call on Ms. Dunbar. I'm certain that the key to this strange mystery lies in her hands.

[A]

You'll hear the rest of Dr. Watson's story in just a few seconds. Just time enough for me to remind you that the easiest way to make good food taste better is to serve that good food with a good Petri wine. If you like a red wine, well you want a Petri California Burgundy. If you'd rather have a white wine then you want a Petri California Sauterne. But red or white Petri Burgundy or Petri Sauternes? You're choosing a dinner wine that's sure to turn a simple meal into a feast. Your whole family and all your friends will love Petri, the wine that makes good food taste better.

And now back to Dr. Watson and tonight Sherlock Holmes adventure the Problem of tor Bridge. Well doctor, did you go to Winchester Prison and see Ms. Dunbar?

[B]

We did Mr. Bartell. An hour later found the two of us sitting in a dank and gloomy cell talking to one of the most beautiful girls that I've ever seen. Her bright flashing eyes and her air of quiet confidence seemed sadly out of place in such a setting. Holmes spoke to her quietly, soothingly.

[C]

Dunbar, tell us of your true relations with the dead woman.

[F]

She hated me Mr. Holmes. She hated me with all the passion of her distorted mind.

[C]

Please tell us exactly what happened on the evening of Mrs. Gibson's death.

[F]

Well I, I received a note from her in the morning. A note imploring me to meet her at the bridge after dinner that night. She said she had something important to say to me.

[B]

Did you keep that note, Ms. Dunbar?

[F]

No Doctor. She. Well she asked me to destroy the note so I burned it in the schoolroom grate. I saw no reason for such secrecy but, well I, I did as she asked.

[C]

And yet she kept your reply very carefully. That's interesting. Tell me what happened when you met her that night.

[F]

When I reached the bridge she was waiting for me. I, I won't tell you what she said but she poured out her whole wild fury and burning horrible words. I didn't answer. I couldn't. It was dreadful even to look at her. She was like an insane woman standing there screaming disgusting insults at me. I, I put my hands to my ears and rushed away.

[B]

Where was she standing when. When you left her?

[F]

Within a few yards of the spot where her body was found later.

[C]

And yet presuming she met her death shortly after you left her, you heard no shot?

[F]

No, no, I heard nothing. But I was so upset, Mr. Holmes that I rushed straight back to my room.

[C]

Did you leave it again that night?

[F]

Yes. When the alarm came that Mrs. Gibson was dead I ran out with the others.

[B]

Did you see Mr. Gibson?

[F]

Yes doctor. He had just returned from the bridge when I saw him. He had sent for the doctor and the police.

[C]

This pistol that you found in your room have you ever seen it before?

[F]

Never Mr. Holmes. I swear it.

[B]

When was it found, Ms. Dunbar?

[F]

Next morning when the police made their search. It was on the floor of my wardrobe where I keep my shoes.

[C]

You had no idea how long it had been there?

[F]

Well it hadn't been there the morning before.

[C]

How do you know?

[F]

Because I had tidied up the wardrobe that day.

[C]

I see. Then someone must have come into your room and placed the pistol there in order to incriminate you.

[F]

I'm certain of it.

[B]

When? When could they have done that?

[F]

Well it, it could have been at meal times or when I was in the school room with the children.

[C]

Yes, Ms. Dunbar? On examining the scene of Mrs. Gibson's death I noticed that a piece of stonework on the underside of the parapet of the bridge had been broken away. Can you suggest any possible explanation for that?

[F]

Oh surely it must have been a mere coincidence, Mr. Holmes.

[C]

Possibly. But why should it appear at the very time of the tragedy and at the very place. Could it possibly be that? Why yes of course. Idiot. Why didn't I think of it before? Come along Watson.

[B]

Where are we going Holmes?

[C]

Back to Thor Bridge old fellow as fast as we can get there.

[F]

What have you found out Mr. Holmes?

[C]

The answer to this mystery. I hope. My dear young lady you will get news before the day is out. And meanwhile take my assurance that the clouds are lifting and that the light of truth is breaking through.

[E]

Well Mr. Holmes, you're soon back here. What have you found out?

[C]

You know in a few moments. You got my message?

[B]

Oh yes sir.

[E]

Here you are, ball of twine. What you want it for? I can't imagine.

[C]

You'll soon see. Sergeant Watson I have some recollection that you usually go armed on these excursions of ours.

[B]

Yes, I'm carrying my revolver. Why?

[C]

Give it to me old chap will you? Thanks. I believe your revolver may have a very intimate connection with the mystery we're investigating.

[B]

You're joking.

[C]

Now Watson I'm very serious. I have a testimony make. The test is successful. Ms. Dunbar will be free before nightfall and the test will depend on the conduct of this revolver of yours.

[A]

Yes.

[C]

Take the precaution of unloading it.

Uh huh. There we are. Now Sergeant, ball of twine please.

[E]

Wish I knew what you was up to sir.

[C]

I tie one into the twine like this to the handle of the revolver. So Sergeant see if you can find me a heavy stone will you? Oh right.

[E]

Yes sir.

[B]

Holmes what are you doing?

[C]

Trying to reconstruct the killing of Mrs. Gibson. But you've seen me miss the mark before. Watson. I have an instinct for such things. And yet it has sometimes played me false. Seemed a certainty when it first flashed across my mind in Ms. Dunbar cell. But one drawback of an active mind is that one can always conceive alternative explanations which would make our scent a false one and yet. Oh well we can but try.

[E]

Here's a nice stone Mr. Holmes.

[C]

Thank you Sergeant. Now I tie the other end of the twine to the stone. Wait a minute. Like that. Splendid. Sergeant will you please take this stone and stretch the twine across the parapet of the bridge there so that the stone will swing just clear of the water on the other side of the bridge. Right. Your sir, I'll stand on the spot where Mrs. Gibson Body was found. That's it Sergeant, over the parapet.

[B]

How's that Mr. Holmes? The stone swinging about eight feet above the water.

[C]

Splendid. Now Watson watch closely. I raise the revolver to my head.

[B]

Careful Holmes, careful.

[C]

Don't worry old chap's not loaded. Now let us imagine. I am the late Mrs. Gibson. I raise the revolver to my head and fire it. Instantly my fingers release that gripen.

There's your answer Watson. Great sculpt.

[B]

The revolver flashed back out of your hand, struck the parapet of the bridge and. And the weight of the stone flipped it over into the water.

[C]

Was there ever a more exact demonstration? Come on old fellow.

[E]

You're a bloomin magician Mr. Holmes, that's what you are, a blooming magician.

[C]

Look at that. Is there the second chip on the stonework? The parapet here. Same size as the first.

[B]

Then the murder of Mrs. Gilford wasn't.

[C]

Murder at all, it was suicide. But we can follow the various steps quite clearly. A note was extracted very cleverly from Ms. Dunbar. A note which made it appear that she had chosen the scene of the crime. Mrs. Gibson, in her anxiety that the note should be discovered somewhat overdid it by holding it in her hand to the last. That alone should have excited my suspicions earlier than it did.

[B]

She stole one of her husband's revolvers.

[E]

And wanted the other one in Ms. Dunbar's wardrobe.

[C]

Exactly. After discharging one of the cartridges which you could easily do in the woods without attracting suspicion she then went down to the bridge where she contrived this exceedingly ingenious method of getting rid of her weapon. When Ms. Dunbar appeared she used her last breath in pouring out her hatred. And then when the girl had left carried out her terrible purpose.

[E]

And the missing revolver?

[C]

You'll find it with the aid of a grappling hook at the bottom of the stream. And also the stone and the string with which this vindictive woman attempted to disguise her own crime and fasten a charge of murder on an innocent victim.

[B]

Yes Sergeant. And don't forget while you're at it that my revolver's down there too.

[E]

Oh don't worry Doctor, I'll get some grappling hooks right away.

[B]

I must say Holmes, you solved this case brilliantly. Quite brilliantly.

[C]

I disagree old chap. And I fear that you will not improve my reputation by adding the case of the Tor Bridge mystery to your annals.

[B]

Oh nonsense. But that's ridiculous.

[C]

Oh no it isn't old boy. I've been sluggish in my mind and wanting in that mixture of imagination and reality which is the very basis of my art. I confess that the chip in the stonework was a sufficient clue to suggest the true solution and I blame myself for not having attained it sooner.

[B]

Well Holmes, personally I Agree with the sergeant's opinion of you.

[C]

Oh, what was that, old fellow?

[B]

You're a blooming magician, Mr. Holmes. That's what you are. A blooming magician.

[A]

Well, Dr. Holmes really was a magician. That is, if you did find Mrs. Gibson's revolver and your own be found him all right.

[B]

You don't think I'll tell you the story otherwise, do you? What do you take before anywhere?

[A]

Well, now that you ask, I'll tell you. I take you for a very charming gentleman, a wonderful storyteller and a fine host.

Well, you are a gentleman of the old school. And you do tell a fine story.

[B]

You flatter me. You.

[A]

And you are a perfect host. That meal we had tonight was wonderful.

[B]

Oh, it was, eh?

[A]

And that, that wine, what kind was it?

[B]

It was Petri wine and you know it. And I should have known that you were leading up to something. Mr. Bartel, you should be ashamed of yourself. You will do anything to get a chance to talk about Petri wine. Oh, I can't say I blame you.

[A]

Honestly, Doctor, I meant everything I said. But you don't really want me to stop talking about Petri wine, do you? After all, it's worth talking about, isn't it? What other wine is made with a loving care that goes into Petri wine? Don't forget, Petri wine is made by the Petri family. Winemaking is their business. Why, they've been making wine for generations, handing down from father to son, from father to son, all their skill and knowledge and experience. You can be sure the Petri family really knows plenty about the fine art of turning luscious grapes into delicious wine. That's why, whether you want a wine for before dinner, with dinner, or for any time, you can't go wrong with a Petri wine because Petri took time to bring you good wine. And now, Dr. Watson, what new story are you planning to tell us next week?

[B]

Well, next week, Mr. Bartell, I'm going to tell an adventure that Holmes and I had amid the Oriental magnificence of a maharajah's pal in India.

[A]

India? Sounds intriguing. What were you and Sherlock Holmes doing out there, Doctor?

[B]

We'll have to wait till next week for the answer to that question. But I can tell you that it was one of the weirdest problems that we ever had to solve. I call the story the Vanishing Eleph.

[A]

Tonight, Sherlock Holmes Adventure is written by Dennis Green and Antony Boucher and is adapted from the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story, the Problem of Tour Bridge. 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, invite you to tune in again next week, same time, same station.

[B]

Oh, the Petri family took the time to bring you such good wine. So when you eat and when you.

[A]

Cook, remember Petri wine to make good food taste better.

[C]

Remember Petri.

[A]

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.