Summary of "Sherlock Holmes: The Retired Colourman"

Presented by Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio

Podcast Information:

• Title: Sherlock Holmes: The Retired Colourman (Langford & Baker)
• Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
• Release Date: June 20, 2025

1. Introduction to the Case

The episode opens with Dr. John Watson returning to his residence at 221B Baker Street to find Sherlock Holmes in a notably somber and contemplative state.

• Dr. John Watson: "While his eyelids drooped over his eyes so lazily that he might almost have been asleep, I recognized his melancholy and philosophic mood." [01:59]

Holmes introduces a troubling case involving Mr. Josiah Amberley, a retired color man who has recently faced severe personal and financial losses.

2. Meeting Mr. Josiah Amberley

Mr. Amberley presents himself as a man who seemingly had a comfortable retirement, having married a younger, attractive woman and settled into a serene life. However, within two years, his life unravelled dramatically.

• Narrator (Holmes): "Retired in 1896. Watson. Early in 1897, he married a woman 20 years younger than himself." [03:49]

Amberley's wife and his deed box containing £7,000 in securities have mysteriously disappeared, raising suspicions of foul play.

3. Presenting the Clues

During their initial discussion, several inconsistencies and suspicious behaviors emerge:

• Amberley attended a theater alone, leaving his wife's seat empty—a perceived bad omen.

• The existence of a "strong room" with an iron door painted to resemble wood, intended to safeguard his valuables, raises questions.

• Noteworthy is the unusual odor of paint in his home, which Holmes suspects is a cover for a more sinister scent.

• Dr. John Watson: "Ms. Barker." [23:31]

• Mr. Josiah Amberley: "Look. Holmes." [23:31]

4. The Investigation Journey

Holmes instructs Watson to visit Amberley's residence in Lewisham to gather firsthand information and inspect the premises. Upon arrival, Watson engages with Mr. Amberley, who reveals:

• His meticulous planning to secure his assets.

• The sudden disappearance of his wife and the ensuing financial loss.

• A suspicious individual described as tall, dark, with a heavy mustache and a Masonic tie pin was seen following him, suggesting a deeper conspiracy.

• Mr. Josiah Amberley: "He must have had a duplicate key." [09:42]

• Dr. John Watson: "I saw him nip into the next compartment as though he didn't wish to be seen." [11:15]

5. Encounter with Inspector McKinnon

Holmes and Watson's investigation leads them to Inspector McKinnon, who is initially skeptical of Holmes's unconventional methods.

• Inspector McKinnon: "Don't imagine that we hadn't formed our own views of this case..." [24:09]
• Narrator (Holmes): "There shall be no such robbery, Inspector McKinnon." [24:23]

Holmes confidently presents his findings, emphasizing the psychological profile of Mr. Amberley and the meticulous nature of the crime, which he believes points towards calculated murder rather than simple robbery.

6. The Twist and Unveiling of Holmes' True Intent

In a dramatic turn, it is revealed that Holmes has orchestrated the entire investigation to expose the true perpetrator. He introduces Mr. Barker, his friend and rival, who was unknowingly entangled in his elaborate scheme.

• Narrator (Holmes): "Quite simple, my dear Watson." [27:30]
• Mr. Josiah Amberley: "Look. Holmes." [23:31]

Holmes explains how he used deception to lure Mr. Amberley into a vulnerable position, ultimately leading to Amberley's arrest for the presumed murder of his wife and the disappearance of his financial assets.

• Narrator (Holmes): "It takes imagination, but it pays." [31:48]

Inspector McKinnon acknowledges Holmes's exceptional deductive skills, albeit with a hint of frustration over his own methods.

• Inspector McKinnon: "It seems a clear case the way you put it." [31:28]

7. Conclusion

The episode concludes with Holmes having successfully resolved the case by outsmarting Mr. Amberley, ensuring that justice is served without the actual need for violent confrontation. The missing money and securities are presumed recovered, and the intricate web of deception is unraveled, showcasing Holmes's unparalleled detective prowess.

• Narrator (Holmes): "There was no robbery." [31:56]
• Dr. John Watson: "Ah, well, you've met every point, Holmes." [31:49]

The story underscores themes of greed, deception, and the intricate dance between detective and suspect, ultimately celebrating the genius of Sherlock Holmes in uncovering the truth.

Notable Cast:

• Robert Langford as Sherlock Holmes
• Kenneth Baker as Dr. John Watson
• Beth Boltler, George Karelin, Tony J. Louis Ife, and Frank Douglas in supporting roles.

Next Episode Teaser: At the end of the episode, listeners are teased with the next adventure titled "The Three Gables," ensuring continued intrigue and engagement with Holmes's enduring legacy.

This detailed summary encapsulates the key elements, discussions, and resolutions of the episode "Sherlock Holmes: The Retired Colourman," providing listeners and fans alike with an insightful overview of the captivating mystery unravelled by the legendary detective.