Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge (Hobbs & Shelley)

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge (Hobbs & Shelley)
Release Date: January 10, 2025

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, Carlton Hobbs reprises his iconic role as Sherlock Holmes alongside Norman Shelley as Dr. John Watson. Adapted by Michael Hardwick from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's original short story, “The Problem of Thor Bridge,” this production delves deep into a perplexing murder mystery, showcasing the unparalleled deductive prowess of Holmes and the unwavering support of Watson.

The Mysterious Letter

The episode commences with Dr. Watson introducing a troubling letter addressed to Sherlock Holmes:

Sherlock Holmes [00:02:30]: “Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I can't see the best woman God ever made go to her death without doing all that is possible to savour. I can't even try to explain things, but I know beyond all doubt that Ms. Dunbar is innocent.”

This letter is penned by J. Neil Gibson, a prominent American senator and gold mining magnate residing in Hampshire, England. His plea emphasizes his belief in Ms. Dunbar's innocence regarding her recent tragic death.

Initial Case Overview

Holmes and Watson dissect the case details:

• Victim: Ms. Grace Dunbar, a governess employed by Gibson.
• Circumstances: Found dead on the grounds of Gibson’s Hampshire estate, with a revolver bullet through her brain. Notably, no weapon was found at the scene.
• Evidence: A revolver matching the fatal bullet caliber was discovered in Ms. Dunbar’s wardrobe, accompanied by a note from her.

Dr. Watson [00:04:00]: “The dead woman also had on her a note signed by the governess, making an appointment to meet her at that very place.”

The initial suspicion points towards the governess, given the direct evidence and apparent motive rooted in romantic rivalry.

Encounter with J. Neil Gibson

Gibson approaches Holmes and Watson, emphasizing the importance of his case:

J. Neil Gibson [00:06:15]: “You can burn it if it'll like the weight of the truth. Name your figure.”

Despite Gibson’s insistence on clearing Ms. Dunbar’s name, Holmes remains skeptical, questioning the nature of Gibson’s relationship with both his wife and Ms. Dunbar.

Visit to Thor Bridge

Holmes and Watson accompany Sergeant Coventry to the crime scene at Thor Bridge:

• Location: Approximately 15 feet from the parapet to the bridge.
• Findings: A fresh chip in the stonework, suggesting recent disturbance. Ms. Dunbar was found clutching a note, indicating her intent to meet someone.

Dr. Watson [00:14:07]: “That excludes the idea that anyone could have placed the note there after death as a false clue.”

Reevaluating the Evidence

In a pivotal moment, Dr. Watson challenges the initial assumptions:

Dr. Watson [00:16:55]: “But for one thing... The finding of the revolver in her wardrobe.”

He posits that the revolver’s placement is a deliberate attempt to frame Ms. Dunbar, suggesting that someone wanted to incriminate her falsely. This revelation shifts the investigative focus, implying that the true perpetrator meticulously crafted the crime scene to mislead.

Interview with Grace Dunbar

Upon reaching Winchester, Holmes and Watson interview Grace Dunbar:

• Her Testimony: Grace details her strained relationship with Gibson’s wife and her own interactions with Mr. Gibson.
• Critical Admission: She recounts the evening of the murder, confessing that Mrs. Gibson was visibly disturbed and left abruptly after their heated exchange.

Grace Dunbar [00:20:17]: “I put my hands to my ears and ran away. She stood there in the mouth of the bridge shrieking those things after me.”

The Revolver Conundrum

The discussion centers around the revolver found in Grace’s wardrobe:

Dr. Watson [00:22:00]: “How do you know? Because I tidied out the wardrobe.”

Grace vehemently denies ever seeing the weapon, raising questions about its sudden appearance. Holmes and Watson observe a fresh chip in the bridge’s stonework, indicating recent activity, which Watson correlates with the placement of the revolver.

Climactic Revelation

Dr. Watson orchestrates a demonstration to unveil the truth:

1. Setup: Using his own heavy revolver, Watson ties it to a stone with twine, replicating the murder scenario.
2. Execution: He simulates pulling the trigger, causing the stone to strike the bridge, leaving a fresh chip.
3. Conclusion: This act underscores the improbability of Grace attempting to fake the crime scene, reinforcing her innocence.

Dr. Watson [00:25:37]: “Our test has worked, Watson.”

This demonstration solidifies the theory that the revolver was strategically placed to deceive the investigation, pointing towards Mrs. Gibson’s culpability.

Final Insights

In the denouement, Watson reflects on the intricate workings of a disturbed mind orchestrating the crime:

Dr. Watson [00:27:18]: “Her first resolution probably was to end her own life. Her second was to involve the victim of her hatred.”

Holmes acknowledges the complexity of the case, emphasizing that appearances can be deceiving when dealing with premeditated crimes.

Conclusion

Sherlock Holmes: The Problem of Thor Bridge masterfully intertwines suspense, psychological depth, and deductive brilliance. Through meticulous analysis and unorthodox methods, Holmes and Watson unravel a web of deceit, highlighting the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests. This episode stands as a testament to the timeless allure of Sherlock Holmes, offering listeners an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience.

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Notable Quotes:

• Sherlock Holmes [00:02:30]: “I can't see the best woman God ever made go to her death without doing all that is possible to savour.”
• Dr. Watson [00:16:55]: “The finding of the revolver in her wardrobe.”
• Dr. Watson [00:25:37]: “Our test has worked, Watson.”
• Grace Dunbar [00:20:17]: “I put my hands to my ears and ran away.”

This episode, performed by Carlton Hobbs as Sherlock Holmes and Norman Shelley as Dr. Watson, also features Robert Ayers as J. Neil Gibson, Humphrey Morton as Sergeant Coventry, and Beryl Calder as Grace Dunbar and Mrs. Hudson. Recorded by Robin Midgley, it captures the essence of old-time radio detective storytelling, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts of the genre.

Transcript

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[Carlton Hobbs]

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 donating. At ChoiceClassicRadio.com we present Carlton Hobbs as.

[Norman Shelley]

Sherlock Holmes and Norman Shelley as Dr. Watson in a series of plays by Michael Hardwick based on the short stories of Sir Arthur Conan Dyle. Here now is Dr. Watson to introduce the problem of Thaw Bridge. Dr. Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you, sir. It was a wild October morning and I noticed as I was dressing how the last remaining leaves were being whirled from the solitary plane tree in the yard behind 221B Baker Street. I went down to breakfast expecting to find Sherlock Holmes in depressed spirits. Like all great artists, he was easily impressed by his surroundings. On the contrary, he'd almost finished his breakfast and was in that mood of sinister cheerfulness which came over him in lighter moments. There it goes.

[Dr. Watson]

I beg your pardon, Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The last leaf off our plane trip.

[Dr. Watson]

Ah well, October's entitled to its sacrifices, you know. Pass the toast, my dear fellow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here you are. Come to think of it, Holmes, you're not down to your usual October dumps, hmm? I know how the weather affects you. Down you go with the barometer every time. Except.

[Dr. Watson]

Ah, there is an exception then.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was going to say, except when you've got a case on. From the look of you on a beastly morning like this, I'd say that letter beside your plate has more than a bit to do with it.

[Dr. Watson]

Brilliant. My dear Watson, the faculty of deduction must be contagious. You've probed my secret. Good.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then what about sharing it?

[Dr. Watson]

There isn't much to share and I haven't quite finished my breakfast. Look here, Supposing you were to read the letter out for both of us. Then your curiosity and my appetite would both be satisfied.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very well, Holmes. Right. Over.

[Dr. Watson]

Here you are.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I can't see the best woman God ever made go to her death without doing all that is possible to savour. I can't even try to explain things, but I know beyond all doubt that Ms. Dunbar is innocent. I'll come at 11 tomorrow and see if you can get some ray of light in the dark. Maybe I have a clue and don't know it. Yours faithfully, J. Neil Neil Gibson.

[Neil Gibson]

Neil Gibson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Holmes, the American senator?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes. Yes, he was once senator for some western state. He's better known as the biggest gold mining magnate in the world.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's right. Lives in England now, doesn't he?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, he bought a considerable estate in Hampshire about five years ago. Surely though, Watson, you've already heard of the tragic death of his wife.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, that's why the name's familiar. I don't recall any details.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, it's a sensational case. But from what I've read there didn't seem to be any problem to it. The coroner's jury found the evidence quite clear. So did the police court people.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The case is up to the next Winchester recited, isn't it?

[Dr. Watson]

That's right. Oh, I'm afraid it's a thankless business.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What?

[Dr. Watson]

I can discover facts, Watson, but I can't change them. Unless something entirely new and unexpected comes to light, I don't see what my client can hope for.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I say it's nearly 11. Now look, you've got time to post me up before he gets here.

[Dr. Watson]

I suppose I'd better if you're to take an intelligent interest in the proceedings. In a nutshell then. Watson, this man's the greatest financial power in the world. I understand he's also a man of the most violent and formidable character. I know nothing of his wife except that she was past her prime. Unfortunately there was an extremely attractive governess looking after their two young children.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Aha. Femme, possibly.

[Dr. Watson]

The wife was found late one night in the grounds of their Hampshire estate, nearly half a mile from the manor itself. There was a revolver bullet through her brain. I say no weapon was found near her and there was no local clue to the murder. No weapon near her, Watson. Mark that. The body was found by a gamekeeper and it was examined by the police and the doctor before being carried up to the house. Is this too condensed for you?

[J. Neil Gibson]

No, not at all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I remember reading something of it now. But why is the governor suspected?

[Dr. Watson]

On very direct evidence. A revolver with one discharged chamber and a caliber which corresponds with the fatal bullet was found in her wardrobe. In her wardrobe? Well, yes. Well both juries thought that pretty damning.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well who wouldn't?

[Dr. Watson]

The dead woman also had on her a note signed by the governess, making an appointment to meet her at that very place.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed.

[Dr. Watson]

Finally there's a motive. Gibson's an attractive fellow. If his wife died, who's more likely to succeed her than the young lady who'd already by all accounts been receiving his attentions. Love, fortune, power, all depending upon one middle aged life. Ugly Watson, very ugly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did the Dunbar woman put up an alibi, Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

On the contrary. She admitted she was down near Thawbridge. That's the scene of the tragedy at that time. Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well that seems to settle it completely.

[Dr. Watson]

And yet Watson. And yet. Come in.

[Grace Dunbar]

Mr. Neil Gibson. Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh thank you Mrs. Hudson.

[J. Neil Gibson]

On time I think Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

Precisely. This is my friend and colleague Dr. Watson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How do you do sir? This job.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Thank you Holmes. Let me say right away money is nothing to me in this case. You can burn it if it'll like the weight of the truth. Name your figure.

[Dr. Watson]

My professional charges are upon a fixed scale. I do not vary them save when I remit them altogether.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well if dollars make no difference to you think of the reputation. You pull this off Holmes, and every paper in England and America will be booming you.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you Mr. Gibson. I don't think I'm in need of booming. And it may surprise you to know that I prefer to work anonymously. It's the problem itself which attracts me. Let us get down to the facts.

[J. Neil Gibson]

The facts are that Ms. Dunbar is innocent and has got to be cleared. Now I look to you to do it. The rest of it you'll know already from the papers.

[Dr. Watson]

You've nothing to add?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Not that I know of.

[Dr. Watson]

Well there is just one point. What were the exact relations between you and Ms. Dunbar?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Are you trying to?

[Dr. Watson]

I am.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well I suppose you are within your rights in asking me a question like that.

[Dr. Watson]

We will agree to suppose Sir Rowland.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I can assure you Holmes that our relations were entirely and always those of an employer towards a young lady whom he never even saw or spoke with except in the company of his children.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Gibson, I'm a rather busy man. I have neither the time nor the taste for aimless conversation. I wish you good morning.

[J. Neil Gibson]

What the devil do you mean by this? Are you telling me you're dismissing my case?

[Dr. Watson]

At least I dismiss you. This case is sufficiently complicated without the further difficulty of false information.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Meaning I'm a liar?

[Dr. Watson]

I was trying to express it as delicately as I could but if you insist on the word I won't contradict. Why I've been noisy. Mr. Gibson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Gentlemen.

[Dr. Watson]

Gentlemen. Thank you, Watson. Even the smallest argument is unsettling so soon after breakfast.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Holmes I've broken stronger men than you. Before today no man ever crossed me and finished up the battle for it.

[Dr. Watson]

So many have said that to me, Mr. Gibson. And yet here I am.

[J. Neil Gibson]

All right then. The stakes are down and the reserves open. What do you want to know?

[Dr. Watson]

The truth.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Very well. I can give it to you in a very few words. There are some things that are painful as well as difficult to say. I met my wife when I was gold hunting in Brazil. She was Brazilian, Maria Pinto, the daughter of a government official. She was beautiful and I was young and impulsive. I loved her and I married her.

[Dr. Watson]

Go on, please.

[J. Neil Gibson]

The romance of it lasted for years before it went and then, well, after that I saw we'd not one thing left in common. If she could have seen her that way it would have been easier for us both. I tried to convince her. I tried to show her a harsh side of me to make her see I wasn't the man for her any longer. She just remained as devoted as ever. Oh then Ms. Grace Dunbar answered our advertisement for a governess for the children. She too was a very beautiful woman. Now I make no pretense to be more moral than my neighbors, you understand. No sir. I'll admit before you gentlemen that I could not live under the same roof with a young woman like Ms. Dunbar without feeling a passionate regard for her. Do you blame me, Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

I don't blame you for feeling it. I should blame you if you expressed it. This young lady was in a sense under your protection.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well, maybe so. I guess all my life I've been a man who's reached out and taken whatever he's wanted and I never wanted anything more than I wanted her. I told her so.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh you did, did you?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I said money was no object and I'd make her happy and comfortable if she led me.

[Dr. Watson]

When will some of you rich men learn that all the world cannot be bought with bribes?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh, that's how I feel about it now and I give thanks. It didn't work out as I wanted. She told me she'd leave my house at once.

[Dr. Watson]

Why did she not?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well there were others in the house besides myself. They depended on it. I promised her she'd never be molested again and she agreed to stay. There was another reason though.

[Dr. Watson]

What was that?

[J. Neil Gibson]

She knew something of my business interests. They're large, Holmes. I have the power to make or break individuals, communities, even nations. I guess she could see past the dollars to something. Well, something more lasting. She wanted me to use my power to do some good for the world. So she stayed. And then this came along.

[Dr. Watson]

Can you throw any light upon that?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh, it's black against her. I don't deny it. Women lead an inward life. They can do things that are beyond the judgment of a man. No, there's only one explanation that's come into my head for what it's worth.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well there's no doubt that my wife was jealous. Bitterly jealous. There's a kind of soul jealousy as well as a body jealousy. She might. She might have planned to murder Ms. Dunbar or just threatened her with a gun. Then maybe there was a scuffle and the gun went off and shot the woman who held it.

[Dr. Watson]

That possibility had already occurred to me. It's the only alternative to deliberate murder.

[J. Neil Gibson]

But Grace, Ms. Dunbar denies it. Denies it completely.

[Dr. Watson]

Well that isn't final is it? She might have carried the gun back to the house in a daze and thrown it down in her wardrobe. And when it was found she might have tried to lie her way out by a total denial since all explanation was impossible. What is against such a supposition?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I'll tell you what's against it. The fact that she's innocent.

[Dr. Watson]

Well? Well at any rate I may be of more use to you when I've seen this young lady myself. I've no doubt we can reach Winchester by the evening train. Are you game Watson?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Naturally.

[Dr. Watson]

Good.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well that's fine. I have some business in town so you'll have to excuse me from joining him.

[Dr. Watson]

Very well Mr. Gibson, we'll meet later.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Goodbye until then. Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Goodbye.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Goodbye.

[Dr. Watson]

On second thoughts Watson it might be useful if we visited Thor and heard some details from the local constabulary there before going down to Winchester. Come along. Sergeant Coventry, I believe.

[Neil Gibson]

That's right sir.

[Dr. Watson]

I understand you're in charge of the Thorbridge case. My name is Sherlock Holmes.

[Neil Gibson]

Oh yes, Mr. Holmes. I was expecting you and I can tell you sir, I'd rather have you here than Scotland Yard. Once they get into a case bang goes all the credit for the local man but all the blame if anything goes wrong.

[Dr. Watson]

If I can clear it up I don't ask to have my name mentioned.

[Neil Gibson]

That's very handsome of you, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

And my friend Dr. Watson here is the soul of discretion sir.

[Neil Gibson]

I'm assure you sir. Sir. Now then Mr. Holmes I'd like to ask you this and it's a thing I wouldn't breathe through another soul. Don't you think there might be a case against Mr. Gibson himself?

[Dr. Watson]

I've been considering that you've not.

[Neil Gibson]

You've not seen Ms. Dunbar yet. She's a wonderful, fine woman in every way. You know he may well have wanted his wife out of the way it was his pistol you know sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Was that clearly made out?

[Neil Gibson]

Yes sir. One of a pair he had.

[Dr. Watson]

One of a pair. Where's the other?

[Neil Gibson]

Well sir, there's a lot of firearms about the place. One kind and another. We never quite matched it up but the box was made for two.

[Dr. Watson]

I see.

[Neil Gibson]

We got them all laid out in the house if you care to see them later. And now perhaps sir, if you'd like to have a look at the place where the body was found.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I should.

[Neil Gibson]

Here we are gentlemen. This is the spot.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thor Bridge, eh?

[Neil Gibson]

That's it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Doctor, was the body this side of it?

[Neil Gibson]

Right here. I marked the place with this stone.

[Dr. Watson]

About 15ft from the parapet to the bridge. I understand you got here before the body was moved, Sergeant.

[Neil Gibson]

Yes sir. They sent for me at once.

[Dr. Watson]

Who did?

[Neil Gibson]

Mr. Gibson. He told them all that nothing was to be touched until the police arrived.

[Dr. Watson]

That was sensible. Now I gathered from the newspaper report that the shot had been fired at close quarters.

[Neil Gibson]

Yes sir, very close.

[Dr. Watson]

Near the right temple?

[Neil Gibson]

Just behind it, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

How did the body lie on the back.

[Neil Gibson]

No trace of a struggle. No marks, no weapon. There was the note from Ms. Dunbar clutched in the left hand.

[Dr. Watson]

Clutched? Do you see?

[Neil Gibson]

We could hardly open the fingers.

[Dr. Watson]

That's of great importance, Watson. It excludes the idea that anyone could have placed the note there after death as a false clue. As you were about to observe of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, yes, yes, exactly, exactly.

[Dr. Watson]

Hmm. What was it the note said, Sergeant?

[Neil Gibson]

It said I will be at Thawbridge at 9:00. G. Dunbar. That was all, sir. Very short.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes. Did Ms. Dunbar admit writing it?

[Neil Gibson]

Oh yes, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

What was her explanation?

[Neil Gibson]

Her defence was reserved for the assizes. She didn't say anything.

[Dr. Watson]

You know I find the point of the letter very obscure, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was thinking one of the clearest points in the whole business.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no. Granted that the letter was genuine it must have been received an hour or two before. Well then why was this lady still clasping it in her left hand? She wouldn't have needed to refer to it at the interview.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I see what you mean.

[Dr. Watson]

You know, I think I'll just sit down on the bridge for a few minutes and pick it out.

[Neil Gibson]

Very good, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Hello.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What is it Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

Come and look here. Pick up this new chapter. Chipped in the stone.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see it. No bigger than a sixpence.

[Neil Gibson]

Yes sir. We noticed that someone knocked it passing by.

[Dr. Watson]

I expect it took some violence to do that. Stand back a moment please while I try my cane. There. Not a mark and there's a metal tip on this cane. Certainly took a hard blow to make that chip. It's a point worth noting. That's all. Now there were no no footprints. I began.

[Neil Gibson]

The ground was iron hard sir. Not a trace.

[Dr. Watson]

Then I think we've nothing more to learn here. We'll go up to the house and see those firearms now and then we must get on to Winchester. I'd like to see Ms. Dunbar before we move any Watson. I can see no evidence at all to suggest that our millionaire was out of doors when his wife was murdered.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yeah but the governess was out. She admits making the appointment to meet Mrs. Gibson at the bridge. Looks pretty black against her to me.

[Dr. Watson]

But for one thing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's that?

[Dr. Watson]

The finding of the revolver in her wardrobe.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Great heavens Holmes, that seemed to me the most damning incident of all.

[Dr. Watson]

Not so my dear Watson. It struck me as strange when I first read about it and now that I'm in close touch with the case it's become my only firm ground for hope. How? We must look for consistency. Where it's lacking we have a right to be suspicious.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's if I can follow you.

[Dr. Watson]

Well now Watson listen. Suppose for a moment you are a woman who's about to get rid of a rival. You've planned it. A note has been written. The victim has come to the rendezvous. You have a revolver. The crime is committed. It has been workmanlike and complete.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Dr. Watson]

Do you mean to tell me that you'd now ruin your reputation as a criminal by forgetting to fling your revolver away into those handy reed beds? Would you carry it carefully home and put it in your own wardrobe? You know your best friends would hardly call you a schema Watson. But I couldn't picture you doing anything so crude as that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well in the excitement of the moment I might.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no, no, no Watson. Where crime is coolly premeditated the means of covering up are coolly premeditated too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Be that as it may Holmes there's so much to explain.

[Dr. Watson]

Then let us explain it. You see Watson when once your viewpoint is changed the very thing that was so damning becomes a clue to the truth.

[Sherlock Holmes]

For example the revolver.

[Dr. Watson]

Again Ms. Dunbar distains all knowledge of it. If she's speaking the truth then it was placed in her wardrobe. Who placed it there? Someone who wanted to incriminate her. And that person must surely have been the murderer as well. But I'm afraid we must leave this fruitful line of inquiry for the time being. For here's Winchester. We'll see Ms. Dunbaugh first and theorize again later.

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[Dr. Watson]

Now that I have talked with you, Mr. Anbar, I am prepared to accept Mr. Gibson's statement both as to your good influence over him and of the innocence of your relationship.

[Grace Dunbar]

Thank you.

[Dr. Watson]

But you must have no illusions about this. The cards are stacked against us, and I must have all your help if we're to win.

[Grace Dunbar]

I promise you, Mr. Holmes, I'll tell you nothing but the truth.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good.

[Dr. Watson]

Then please tell us, what were your relations with Mr. Gibson's wife?

[Grace Dunbar]

She hated me. She misunderstood my relations with him. I don't doubt she had this. This tropical quality about her, if you know what I mean. She loved him so vividly in the. The physical sense. But it must have been beyond her to understand the mental, the spiritual tie that came to join her husband and me. I can see now I was wrong to have stayed on in the house. But I know that even if I'd left, their unhappiness would have remained with them.

[Dr. Watson]

I understand. Now, please tell us exactly what occurred that evening.

[Grace Dunbar]

There's so much I can't explain.

[Dr. Watson]

If you'll find the facts, perhaps others may find the explanations.

[Grace Dunbar]

Yes, I see. Well, that morning I'd found a note waiting for me on the table in the children's schoolroom. It was from Mrs. Gibson. It implored me to meet her at Thawbridge after dinner. She had something important to say to me. I was to leave an answer on the sundial in the garden. And. And no one was to know of our meeting. This secrecy seemed rather exaggerated to me, but I did as she wished. And then I burned her note in the schoolroom grate.

[Dr. Watson]

You were asked to do that in the note?

[Grace Dunbar]

Yes.

[Dr. Watson]

Yet she kept your reply very carefully.

[Grace Dunbar]

Yes. I was surprised to hear about it being found in her hand.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, what happened then?

[Grace Dunbar]

I went to the bridge after dinner as I'd promised. She was waiting there for me. I'd never realized until that moment just how the poor creature hated me. She was like a mad woman. I think she was mad.

[Dr. Watson]

What did she say?

[Grace Dunbar]

She poured out her Fury on me in the most horrible words I'd ever heard uttered. I put my hands to my ears and ran away. She stood there in the mouth of the bridge shrieking those things after me.

[Dr. Watson]

You heard nothing else after you'd left? No shot?

[Grace Dunbar]

Nothing but that terrible voice. I ran all the way back to the piece of my room and shut myself in.

[Dr. Watson]

Did you leave your room again before.

[Grace Dunbar]

Next morning when the alarm was raised that they'd found her dead? I ran out to join the others. It was soon after 11.

[Dr. Watson]

I see. So we come to the all important point. This revolver that was found in your wardrobe now had you ever seen it before?

[Grace Dunbar]

Never I swear it.

[Dr. Watson]

When was it found exactly?

[Grace Dunbar]

Next morning when the police made their search.

[Dr. Watson]

How long could it have been there?

[Grace Dunbar]

It had not been there the morning before.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you know?

[Grace Dunbar]

Because I tidied out the wardrobe.

[Dr. Watson]

Then when could anyone have come into your room and placed it there?

[Grace Dunbar]

Well only at meal time or when I was in the schoolroom with the children.

[Dr. Watson]

As you were when you got that note?

[Grace Dunbar]

Yes. I suppose it could have been any time from then onward that whole morning. But Mrs. Gibson was still alive then.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes I see. Ms. Dunbar on the stonework of the bridge some feet from where the body lay I observed a mark of some violence. A fresh chip in the stone. Could you suggest any possible explanation for that?

[Grace Dunbar]

I No I, I can't. I don't understand Mr. Holmes but suddenly.

[Dr. Watson]

I think I do. Come along Watson at once.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Yes Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

Were too back to Forbridge.

[Grace Dunbar]

What is it Mr. Holmes? Please tell.

[Dr. Watson]

Not now my dear lady. You'll get news by tomorrow. Meanwhile take my assurance that the clouds are lifting for you at last and the light of truth is breaking through.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I can see the Sergeant waiting for.

[Neil Gibson]

Us on the bridge Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Capital. I hope he carried out my little errand on the way.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What was that?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh just a small purchase from the vil shop. Now then Watson, I'll have that revolver of yours if you please.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh right.

[Dr. Watson]

Here you are. This is a nice specimen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, serviceable little devil. I wouldn't be without it.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh it's heavy. Remarkably heavy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yeah it's a solid bit of work.

[Dr. Watson]

Now then, safety catch on. Good. Do you know Watson I believe your revolver is going to have a very intimate connection with this mystery we're investigating.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh how?

[Dr. Watson]

There's a test we must perform. If it comes off all will be clear and the test will depend on the conduct of this little revolver.

[Neil Gibson]

Good day gentlemen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good day to you Sergeant.

[Dr. Watson]

Did you manage to get me what I Wanted, Sergeant.

[Neil Gibson]

Oh, the Balladweiser. Yes, here she is.

[Dr. Watson]

Splendid. Now we'll waste no time. Be so good as to find me a heavy stone, will you?

[Neil Gibson]

A stone, sir?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, that one over there will do perfectly, I think.

[Neil Gibson]

Oh, very good, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Now then, Watson, hold the revolver please.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Dr. Watson]

While I tie this end of the twine onto the butt like this.

[Neil Gibson]

Here you are, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

There, that's secure enough. Now then, the other end of the twine goes round that stone. Tie it really well, won't you Sergeant?

[Neil Gibson]

Right, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, we don't want it to slip out, do we? That's right, yes, like that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dash it, Holmes, I do wish you'd tell us what all this is about.

[Dr. Watson]

In a moment, Watson, I'll show you. All secure, Sergeant.

[Neil Gibson]

That won't slip, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

Capital. Now I want you to walk over to the bridge. Put the stone over the edge of the parapet there and let it down as far as it'll go on the twine.

[Neil Gibson]

Right you are, sir.

[Dr. Watson]

You take the strain on the line, Watson, or it'll go with a jerk. I'll hold on to the gun.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I've got it.

[Dr. Watson]

Right then, lower away, Sergeant, as gently as you can.

[Neil Gibson]

There, Mr. Holmes. She's down just a foot clear of the water.

[Dr. Watson]

Now stand clear both of you, and watch closely. I raise the revolver to my head.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Careful.

[Dr. Watson]

Don't worry, Watson, I shan't fire it. I loosen my grip and.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There Holmes, my revolver.

[Dr. Watson]

Now come on, let's examine the bridge. Look, a fresh chip in the parapet where the weight of the stone flung the gun before it pulled over. Our test has worked, Watson.

[Neil Gibson]

You mean that's how it was done, sir? She shot herself?

[Dr. Watson]

Precisely. Well, I'm blessed if you'll oblige, with a grappling hook as soon as you can, Sergeant. I think my friend here'll soon have his little revolver back. None the worse for wear, my sir. And if I'm not mistaken, you'll find another revolver, stone and twine in much the same place.

[Neil Gibson]

Well I, I see exactly what you were getting at, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Watson, the Sergeant is not quite convinced.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He'S at all like me. He's just trying to work out how it all fits in with that revolver in the wardrobe.

[Neil Gibson]

And the note in the dead woman's hands are. What could she have meant by that?

[Dr. Watson]

They show a remarkable subtlety of mind. A note was extracted cleverly from Mr. Bar which would make it appear that she had chosen the time and place of the crime. Mrs. Gibson was so anxious that this false clue should be discovered that she overdid it by holding it in her hand to the last. That alone should have excited my suspicions earlier than it did.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The gun then In. In the wardrobe.

[Neil Gibson]

Simple.

[Dr. Watson]

We've been told that it was one of a pair. The other hasn't been found because Mrs. Gibson took it for her own use and is now down there in the water alongside yours. She could easily have taken his mate down to the woods earlier in the day and discharged one barrel without anyone hearing. Then she took it back to the house and concealed it in the wardrobe while Ms. Dunbar was in the schoolroom.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't doubt you're right as usual, Holmes, but it's a pretty horrible picture you've painted.

[Dr. Watson]

You know, I don't think in all our adventures we've come across a stranger example of the workings of a crazed mind. Her first resolution probably was to end her own life. Her second was to involve the victim of her hatred. But oh Watson, Watson, that chip in the stonework. I've been sluggish in mind and wanting in that mixture of imagination and reality which is the basis of my art. No, no, you'd better not think of adding the problem of Thor Bridge to your annals. I fear it will not improve my reputation at all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Holmes.

[Neil Gibson]

There you go.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Go again.

[Norman Shelley]

In Thor Bridge by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle adapted for radio by Michael Hardwick, the part of Sherlock Holmes was played by Carlton Hobbs and Dr. Watson by Norman Shelley, J. Neil Gibson by Robert Ayers, Sergeant Coventry by Humphrey Morton, Grace Dunbar and Mrs. Hudson by Beryl Calder. The recorded production was by Robin Midgley.