Sherlock Holmes: The Singular Adventure of the Dying Schoolboys

Summary

Podcast Summary: Sherlock Holmes – "The Singular Adventure of the Dying Schoolboys"

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Sherlock Holmes: The Singular Adventure of the Dying Schoolboys
Date: May 1, 2026
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Episode Overview

This episode features a suspenseful Sherlock Holmes radio drama that transports listeners to late 19th-century England, where a string of mysterious deaths at a private boys’ school prompts Lord Manders to turn to Holmes for help. The adventure that unfolds is one of the darkest Holmes and Watson ever faced, uncovering cruelty, greed, and a most sinister murder method.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

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1. Case Introduction: Lord Manders' Tragic Story

• [03:27] Lord Manders recounts surviving a shipwreck and returning home to find his younger brother, Eric, has died under suspicious circumstances at Punsonby Hall, a boys' school near Cardiff.
• [04:48] He further reveals five boys have died there over the past two years, all supposedly of pneumonia, and suspects foul play–perhaps by his late uncle, who stood to inherit the family estate.

"It may sound incredible but I believe Eric was murdered at Punsonby Hall."
(Lord Manders, [05:12])

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2. Initial Investigation: The Undertaker’s Clues

• [06:18] Holmes insists on first speaking with the local undertaker, Llewellyn Coffin.
• [07:00] Coffin describes the deceased boys as having "a strange look on their faces, as if something had frightened the wits out of them just before they died," and strange marks on their necks or shoulders.

"The boys had a strange look on their faces as they lay there. As if something had frightened the wits out of them just before they died."
(Llewellyn Coffin, [08:15])

• [09:00] Dr. Punsonby, the school’s owner/doctor, has signed all the death certificates, explaining away marks as "inoculation marks."

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3. Going Undercover: Watson’s Solo Infiltration

• [10:26] At Holmes’s behest, Watson adopts the persona of “Angus McLaughlin,” a wealthy Scot needing "discipline" for his troublesome young cousin.
• [11:52] To test the headmaster’s morals, Watson admits he would prosper if the boy “were to die,” offering £10,000 for Dr. Punsonby’s “help.”

"I wouldn't be sorry if anything were to happen to him. Am I making myself quite clear, doctor?"
(Dr. Watson [disguised], [12:18])

• [13:31] The ruse fails. Dr. Punsonby recognizes Watson, having seen his picture with Holmes. Watson is drugged into unconsciousness.

"By the way, Mr. McLaughlin, your Scottish accent is beginning to disappear. Such a pity. It was quite colourful."
(Dr. Punsonby, [13:18])

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4. Holmes to the Rescue & Gathering Clues

• [16:08] Watson is found by Holmes, disguised as a stablehand.
• [16:38] Watson describes a strange vision—a "pink and black beaded bag" that seemed to move.
• [17:05] Holmes immediately suspects a sinister explanation connected with recent American zoological reports.

"That confirms my worst suspicions."
(Sherlock Holmes, [17:05])

• [18:07] Holmes learns:
  • The fatal room where all the deaths occurred is directly beneath matron Mrs. Arkwright's.
  • A sick boy, Carruthers Minor, has just been moved into this same room.

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5. Race Against Time: Saving Carruthers Minor

• [19:11] Holmes, Watson, and Lord Manders investigate.
• [19:28] They note the bed is anchored and there's a trapdoor from Mrs. Arkwright’s room above.

"The trapdoor, the strange marks on the dead boys, the beaded bag you saw..."
(Sherlock Holmes, [19:53])

• [20:14] Mrs. Arkwright enters, brandishing a revolver. Watson and Holmes disarm and subdue her.

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6. Confrontation with Dr. Punsonby & Exposing the Murder Weapon

• [21:19] Holmes and Watson confront Dr. Punsonby with evidence.
• [21:49] Holmes deduces that the murder method was inspired by knowledge from the American Southwest—specifically, the Gila Monster.
• [22:06] Punsonby attempts to deflect blame to Mrs. Arkwright.

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7. The Truth Revealed: The Gila Monster

• [24:10] In Mrs. Arkwright's room, the "beaded bag" is found to be a live Gila Monster—presumed to have killed Mrs. Arkwright as she attempted another murder.
• [24:19] Holmes kills the creature.

"So let me introduce you to the peculiar villain of this piece. His name is Heloderma suspectum, better known as the Gila Monster..."
(Sherlock Holmes, [24:38])

• [24:59] Holmes confirms via telegram with the Museum of Natural History that the Gila Monster’s venomous bite produces quick, hard-to-detect death—explaining the boys' symptoms and marks.

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8. Extracting a Confession: Poetic Justice

• [25:53] Holmes uses the dead Gila Monster, lowered through the trapdoor, to frighten Dr. Punsonby into confessing.

"Well isn’t it poetic justice that a dead reptile should be instrumental in bringing a live one to the gallows?"
(Sherlock Holmes, [26:34])

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Notable Quotes & Key Moments

• Holmes on school as a haven for murder:

  "A private school...operated by an unprincipled scoundrel could provide excellent and profitable opportunities for removing unwanted relatives."
  (Sherlock Holmes, [05:26])

• Dark humor from Watson:

  "An undertaker named Coffin. That's very funny isn't it? Coffin, undertaker."
  (Dr. Watson, [06:25])

• Holmes reveals the murder method:

  "The Gila monster's bite produces almost instantaneous death...The fixed bed...the trap door...and the help of an unscrupulous accomplice makes the rest of the picture very clear."
  (Sherlock Holmes, [25:01])

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Important Timestamps

• [03:27] Introduction of Lord Manders and the initial client story
• [06:18] Visit to undertaker Llewellyn Coffin and revelations about the boys’ deaths
• [10:26] Watson’s undercover interview with Dr. Punsonby
• [13:31] Watson’s ruse fails; he is recognized and drugged
• [16:08] Holmes rescues Watson; Watson describes the "beaded bag"
• [19:11] Attempt by Holmes and Watson to save Carruthers Minor
• [20:14] Showdown with Mrs. Arkwright
• [24:10] The true weapon: the Gila Monster revealed
• [25:53] Holmes frightens Dr. Punsonby into confession

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Tone and Language

• Maintains a classic, atmospheric style typical of Sherlock Holmes dramatizations: measured, articulate, and with a sharp undercurrent of suspense.
• Holmes is clinical and incisive; Watson provides warmth, occasional comic relief, and earnest concern.
• Dialogue is brisk, charged, and character-rich, with notable period British flavor.

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Memorable Moments

• The revelation of the weapon as a Gila Monster—a living "beaded bag" from the American Southwest—was shocking and inventive, echoing Conan Doyle’s earlier "Speckled Band" but with a new zoological twist.
• Holmes’s trick of using the (dead) Gila Monster to extract Dr. Punsonby’s confession is both macabre and satisfying.
• Equally, the line about “poetic justice”—the dead reptile sealing the fate of its human counterpart—leaves a chilling, memorable close.

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Recap

Holmes and Watson unmask a sinister plot at an English boys’ school, where a greedy headmaster and his vicious accomplice have used an exotic, deadly lizard as a murder weapon. Through deduction, stealth, and psychological bravado, Holmes averts another tragedy, secures a confession, and highlights the lengths to which criminals will go—and to which justice must pursue them.

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Next Week: The Adventure of the Genuine Garnerius – a locked-room mystery involving a murdered violinist.

Transcript

[Sherlock Holmes]

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].

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Kremel hair tonic and kremel shampoo present the new adventures of sherlock holmes. Starring nigel bruce as Dr. Watson and tom conway as sherlock holmes. Once again, it's time to call on our old friend, that incomparable host and storyteller, Dr. Watson. He's waiting for us in his familiar study. Good evening, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Good evening, Mr. Bell. I won't get up if you don't mind. This change in the weather has given me a twinge or two of rheumatism, I'm afraid.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

I'm sorry to hear that, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

We old fossils can't expect to be and heartiers, you young fellows.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

You know, I don't know that I feel so young today, Dr. Watson. I stopped by the military academy this afternoon and saw my cousin there. He's 13 years old, and after an hour with him I realized I'm really quite ancient.

[Dr. Watson]

13 years old. Fine age. He's happy at the school, Mr. Bell.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Crazy about it.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I'm sure that in this day and age a boy almost looks forward to going to school. Conditions were far different in certain parts of England just before the turn of the century, I'm afraid I'm thinking in particular of a school that Holmes and I had occasion to visit. And of the frightened, unhappy youngsters who lived there in mortal terror of their lives.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Oh, this has all the hallmarks of the beginning of a Sherlock Holmes adventure.

[Dr. Watson]

It is, my boy. It's a story I call the Singular Affair of the Dying Schoolboys. But before I begin, haven't you a message for our listeners?

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Yes, I have. Folks, it looks as if we're in for plenty of excitement tonight with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. And men. I'll bet you'll be plenty excited about the great improvement in the appearance of your hair once you use Kremel Hair Tonic. Frankly, I've tried any number of hairdressings. But it took Kremel to really convince me that my hair can always be neat without having to plaster it down with grease or those sticky, gooey concoctions. And Cremel does lots more than keep hair looking attractive. It makes hair so much easier to comb and actually helps condition the hair in that it leaves it feeling so much softer, easier to manage at the same time. Cremel removes embarrassing dandruff flakes. It relieves itching Due to dry scalp and leaves your scalp feeling so clean, so alive. Man, what a treat. Now be sure to buy a bottle at any drug counter spelled K R E M L Kremel hair tonic. Now Dr. Watson, how about the singular affair of the dying schoolboy?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, Mr. Bell, that strange adventure began on a stormy September evening in Baker street many, many years ago. All day long the wind had screamed and the rain had beaten against our windows. Shortly after dinner there was the old familiar jangle on our front doorbell and a few moments later Mrs. Hudson ushered a distinguished visitor into the room. As he stood there in front of the flickering firelight I could see that he was a good looking man and also that he was in a state of considerable excitement.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now Lord Manders, if you will just give us the facts.

[Lord Manders]

Well, Mr. Holmes, three years ago I was a passenger on that ill fated ship, the Sophie Anderson. She was wrecked in a gale and I was the only survivor. I clung to a piece of broken spar and was washed ashore. And after that for over two years I lived alone on an island in the Indian Ocean. Naturally, when the Sophie Anderson founded I was believed to be dead. My young brother Eric, who was next in line, inherited the estate under the guardianship of our uncle.

[Dr. Watson]

Must have been quite a lot of confusion when you arrived home this year, Lord manders.

[Lord Manders]

There was Dr. Watson, but not for the reason you suppose. I landed in England to find that my brother had died last December.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh indeed, I'm very sorry.

[Lord Manders]

He died under very peculiar circumstances. That's why I've come to you, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What were those circumstances?

[Lord Manders]

My uncle sent Eric to a school on the Wilshmors, not far from Cardiff, a school known as Punsonby Hall. He died in a school infirmary there, supposedly of pneumonia.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And you have some reason to believe it was not pneumonia?

[Lord Manders]

Nothing definite. I've been down to the school but Dr. Punsonby, the owner, was too ill to see me. However, I did talk to a frightening woman there who's the matron of the place, a Mrs. Arkwright. I became suspicious so I stayed on and for a few days made some local inquiries.

[Sherlock Holmes]

With what results?

[Lord Manders]

Punsonby hall has a black name with the villagers, Mr. Holmes. Five boys have died there in the last two years under circumstances similar to my brother's.

[Dr. Watson]

Good gracious me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I presume that you immediately had an accounting with your uncle.

[Lord Manders]

My uncle had settled another account before my return, Mr. Holmes. He died of a heart attack last February, but I am certain he was responsible for Eric's death. You see, he Stood to inherit the estate. It may sound incredible but I believe Eric was murdered at Punsonby Hall.

[Dr. Watson]

Murdered? In a boys school. Oh come, come, come sir. Such things can't happen in this 19th century of ours.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But they can, Watson, and do, unfortunately.

[Dr. Watson]

You don't mean it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I do. A private school situated in a desolate spot and operated by an unprincipled scoundrel could provide excellent and profitable opportunities for removing unwanted relatives.

[Dr. Watson]

What a ghastly thought.

[Lord Manders]

Mr. Holmes. I know that Eric's dead and nothing can bring him to life again, but I can try and avenge his death and bring his murderer to justice. You will help me, won't you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes Lord Manders, I will. If these shocking occurrences have been taking place we may be able at least to prevent further tragedies. Watson, suppose we join Lord Manders on the west of England Express tonight and tomorrow. See what can be done to penetrate the black clouds that surround Punsonby Hall.

[Lord Manders]

We're walking in the wrong direction Mr. Holmes. The school's behind us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Before going there I thought we might profitably pay a visit here in the village to Llewellyn Coffin.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, who's he?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The local undertaker.

[Dr. Watson]

An undertaker named Coffin. That's very funny isn't it? Coffin, undertaker.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite. But try and control your amusement will you Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Oh sorry Oliver.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here's his establishment now.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Good day gentlemen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Coffin?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Yes sir, that's my name.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Coffin. We're strangers in these parts and we're in search of information. I'm hoping, Mr. Coffin, that you'll be able to help us.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

What I can do sir, I will and do it gladly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I understand that you've had an unusually large proportion of business from Punsonby hall in the past two years.

[Dr. Watson]

Five boys died, didn't they?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Five boys. It was.

[Lord Manders]

Mr. Coffin. We've heard some strange stories in the village.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, stories that make us wonder if those deaths were from natural causes.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Gentlemen, I'm a simple man. Look you, a man who plies his trade but cannot afford to ask questions what goes on at Punsonbury Hall? And I'll not say strange things haven't happened there is none of my business.

[Lord Manders]

Then let me appeal to your sympathies. My young brother died at Punsonby hall last December. You must have buried him.

[Dr. Watson]

Your brother.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Well now look you, that makes it different. But you'll not say anything up at the hall, sir. Dr. Ponsonby's a savage man.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't worry on that score, Mr. Coffin.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

What do you have to know, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

All the five boys were Supposed to have had pneumonia. I understand that's what the medical report said. Who signed those reports?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Dr. Punthonby himself. He's a regular medical doctor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look you, how very convenient. No questions had to be asked. Mr. Coffin, when you prepared those bodies for burial did you notice anything unusual about them? Anything to make you think their deaths were possibly not caused by pneumonia?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

No sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Think now.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Well now that you mention it there was one thing I was after noticing.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, what was that my good man?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

The boys had a strange look on their faces as they lay there. As if something had frightened the wits out of them just before they died.

[Dr. Watson]

That's very odd. The face of anyone dying from pneumon would be in repose.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you notice anything else Mr. Coffin? Any other peculiarity?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Well there was one thing sir, that gave me to thinking all the boys had marks on them.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Stretch marks.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

They were on their necks or shoulders.

[Dr. Watson]

Perhaps they were bites. Remember Dr. Rylott of Stoke Moran Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did these marks look like the bites of a snake Mr. Coffin?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

No, that they weren't. Look you, I know a snake bite when I see one.

[Lord Manders]

Didn't these marks make you suspicious?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

That they did sir. And when I saw them on the boys I took my courage in my hands and asked Dr. Punsonby.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And what did he say?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Inoculation marks. He said that he had tried to save them with some new fangled medicine.

[Lord Manders]

No autopsy was held on the boys?

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

No sir, Dr. Ponsonby is the only doctor in these parts. Look you, he gave the certificates, who was to ask any questions.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exactly. Come on Watson. Lord Manders, this has been a very promising start. Thank you Mr. Coffin, you've been most helpful.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

It was a pleasure to talk to you gentlemen but please don't be after repeating what I said.

[Lord Manders]

Well Mr. Holmes, I think you'll agree my suspicions were well grounded.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, and we'll lose no time investigating this matter. I think we may work faster if we divide our forces. I shall return to the inn and compose a telegram that I shall ask you to send for me. Lord manders.

[Lord Manders]

Of course Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Aren't you going to Punsonby Hall, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not immediately. However, you my dear Watson, can be my advance guy.

[Dr. Watson]

Me?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes. I think that your open countenance combined with that delightful Scottish accent you sometimes assume, plus an appropriate name, should lull Dr. Punsonby into believing that he has another wealthy customer who needs his very specialized services.

[Dr. Watson]

Well Holmes, I'll do my best. Just the same I'll be very relieved when you get on the scene.

[Mrs. Arkwright]

I'm Mrs. Arkwright, the school matron. Whom did you wish to see?

[Dr. Watson]

I want to have a word with Dr. Ponsonby. My name is Angus McLoughlin, and I'm most anxious to send my young cousin here. Oh, ay, he needs discipline. And I'm told that you dinner pamper a young lad here.

[Mrs. Arkwright]

Please come in. I'm sure Dr. Punsonby will see you.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you, Mrs. Arklay.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Copy Go in, please.

[Dr. Watson]

Dr. Punsonby?

[Dr. Punsonby]

Yes. Please sit down, won't you?

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you, sir. My name is Angus McLaughlin. I've travelled all the way from Aberdeen to see you. I was told that at your school you at least know how to discipline a lad.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Well, Mr. McLaughlin, in our modest way, we endeavor to inculcate our students with a sense of responsibility.

[Dr. Watson]

Aye. Aye, aye.

[Dr. Punsonby]

I was about to have a glass of wine. Perhaps you'd care to join me.

[Dr. Watson]

That's very kind of you, Dr. Panther. I'd like to.

[Dr. Punsonby]

You wish to send a relative here, Mr. MacLaughlan?

[Dr. Watson]

Aye, sir. A young cousin of mine, if you'll take him.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Here's your wine, Mr. MacLaughlan.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you, sir. And to your very good health. Ah, that's very good.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Tell me more about your cousin, sir. Before I accept a new student, I like to know as much about him as possible. Possible?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I'll be quite frank with you. He's 13 years old, and he's a young devil. And an inconvenient young devil, too. You see, Dr. Punson Bay, I'm his guardian. You follow me?

[Dr. Punsonby]

No, sir, I don't think I do.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll be perfectly honest with you. I'm not a poor man, and I'd be a very wealthy one if it weren't for that boy. The whipper snapper is the only person who stands between me and my dead brother's fortune. I wouldn't be sorry if anything were to happen to him. Am I making myself quite clear, doctor?

[Dr. Punsonby]

Much clearer, Mr. MacLachlan. Another glass of wine.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank you. Well, it's very good, Mr. McLaughlin.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Why not put all your cards on the table? So much simpler that way.

[Dr. Watson]

Very well. Does £10,000 mean anything to you, Dr. Punsonby?

[Dr. Punsonby]

Dear me, yes. The scholastic profession is notoriously unremunerative.

[Dr. Watson]

If my young cousin were to be taken ill, perhaps, shall we say with pneumonia, if he. If he were to die here at your school. What was I saying? Oh, I'd pay you £10,000. And now, sir, I can't be more explicit than that, can I?

[Dr. Punsonby]

I don't think so. By the way, Mr. McLaughlin, your Scottish accent is beginning to disappear. Such a pity. It was quite colourful.

[Dr. Watson]

Wine's drug. You haven't touched your wine's drug.

[Dr. Punsonby]

I'm a most abstemious man. Particularly on occasions like this, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How did you know my name?

[Dr. Punsonby]

Even in this remote spot, I've seen photographs of you and your friend, the famous Sherlock Holmes. I'm just a little hurt that you both thought I was stupid enough to be fooled so easily. You seem dreadfully Sleepy, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Sleepy? I've got to go to sleep.

[Dr. Punsonby]

And sleep well, my friend. I only hope that you don't have

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

too much trouble waking up. In just a moment we'll find out just how much trouble Dr. Watson does have in waking up. But first, have you noticed how men are taking a greater interest in their appearance lately? Competition today is keener than ever. And I'm sure you'll agree one of the greatest assets to a man's appearance is well groomed hair. So, men, let me give you this tip about Kremel hair tonic and why it's preferred by so many of America's most successful and prosperous executives. Kreml, K R E M L keeps dry, ruffled hair neatly in place all day long. It gives it such a handsome, healthy looking luster too. Yet Kremel never leaves hair with that offensive, cheap, greasy look. It never leaves hair and scalp full of sticky goo, which feels so dirty. Kremel always looks and smells so clean on both hair and scalp. It gives hair that attractive, natural he man look which certainly hits the jackpot with the ladies. And don't forget, Cramel does lots more than keep hair looking handsome. Let me repeat. Kramel does lots more than keep hair looking handsome. It makes hair feel softer, easier to manage. At the same time it removes dandrufflakes and makes the scalp feel so clean and invigorated. Men use Kremel hair tonic daily. And see if you don't say my hair never looked better, my scalp never felt cleaner. Well, Dr. Watson, you certainly left me teetering on the edge of my chair. We left you drugged in the schoolmaster study. What happened next?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, my first conscious recollection was to find myself with a violin pounding in my head, lying in a small clearing between some trees. Bending over me with a look of deep concern on his face was my old friend, Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson. Watson, old chap, Are you all right?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, yes, I got a frightful headache. Holmes, what are you doing there in those clothes with that droopy moustache it

[Sherlock Holmes]

proved a good enough passport to secure me employment at the stables.

[Dr. Watson]

Here. How did you get me out of Punsonbur's study?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The stables command an excellent view of the school building. Your long absence worried me and when Dr. Punsonby finally appeared alone I became suspicious. So I took advantage of his absence, slipped through the study window and rescued you.

[Dr. Watson]

Thank heavens you did. He gave me drugged wine. It's a funny thing, Holmes, I was probably delirious but I swear that I saw a woman's handbag on the table. A pink and black beaded bag and it was alive and moved.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Great heavens. That confirms my worst suspicions.

[Dr. Watson]

Did you say too?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, it wasn't there when I came in. Somebody, probably Mrs. Arkwright, removed it. Watson, you were never closer to death. I blame myself for having allowed you to tackle Dr. Punsonby alone.

[Dr. Watson]

Don't reproach yourself, Holmes. Where, where's Lord Manders?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Waiting at the inn for an answer to my telegram. He is to meet us later behind the lodge gates.

[Dr. Watson]

What's our next move?

[Sherlock Holmes]

To go to the stables, dirty you up a bit and get you a change of clothes. Then we'll return to the attack. There's desperate work ahead.

[Dr. Watson]

Here. This way, sir. What?

[Lord Manders]

What my man?

[Dr. Watson]

Don't look so alarmed.

[Lord Manders]

Lord manners, Dr. Watson. I. I wouldn't have recognized you. What's happened?

[Dr. Watson]

Trouble. I had to assume a disguise too. You brought an answer to Holmes Telegram?

[Lord Manders]

Yes, in my pocket. Where is he?

[Dr. Watson]

He went over to the main school building and asked me to other things.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That the second cook, an acidulated woman of dubious charms, is most susceptible to flattery. Over a glass of stout she quite inadvertently gave me three vital clues. What were they? Firstly, that all five of the unfortunate boys died in the same small room. Secondly, that that fatal room is directly under the room of Mrs. Arkwright and

[Dr. Watson]

she's capable of anything. If you ask me, the third clue

[Sherlock Holmes]

makes our next step an urgent one. A boy by the name of Carruthers Minor was moved into that room yesterday. He's supposed to have an extremely bad cold. Dr. Punsonby is afraid it might turn into pneumonia.

[Dr. Watson]

Good heavens.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Exactly, Watson. I suggest we lose no time in visiting Carruthers Minor, though I'm sure Dr. Punsonby would consider it unethical. This is one occasion when another doctor's opinion is absolutely vital. There, there, carruthers. This is Dr. Watson. He's come to make you well.

[Carruthers Minor]

You can't make me well. Dr. Ponsonby says I've got pneumonia.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh nonsense, my dear boy. You've got a slight cold, that's all.

[Carruthers Minor]

If Dr. Ponsonby says I've got pneumonia. Pneumonia is what I've got.

[Dr. Watson]

Nothing of the kind, my boy. Nothing of the kind.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, you notice this bed is anchored to the floor. It can't be moved. What does that suggest? You again?

[Dr. Watson]

It reminds me of stok Moran and Dr. Rylott. But I don't see any bell pull.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, Watson, no bell rope is needed because no murderous snake is involved in this plot. But look up there. Directly above the bed, a small trapdoor leading from Mrs. Arkwright's room. Now the whole picture's clear. The trapdoor, the strange marks on the dead boys, the beaded bag that you saw.

[Dr. Watson]

What was that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't know. Lord Manders is standing guard in the hallway.

[Carruthers Minor]

It's Dr. Ponsonby. He's come to look at my pneumonia.

[Mrs. Arkwright]

Mrs. Arkwright, I know you were expecting Lord Manders. He's lying in the hallway. He was looking in the wrong direction, unfortunately for him.

[Carruthers Minor]

Don't let Mrs. Arkwright come near me.

[Dr. Watson]

Don't let her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mrs. Arkwright, I'd put that revolver away if I were you. I doubt if you know how to handle it.

[Mrs. Arkwright]

I assure you that I do. Having used the butt end of it on your friend so successfully should prove that fact.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Wherever, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Right job.

[Carruthers Minor]

Get away from me.

[Dr. Watson]

Drop that revolver, Mrs. Arkwright.

[Carruthers Minor]

That's right, let the old girl have it.

[Dr. Watson]

Grab the revolver, do you hear me? Ah, that's better. I say, Holmes, she's fainted.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good. Help me carry up to a room.

[Dr. Watson]

Well, what about Yankee others and Lord Manders?

[Sherlock Holmes]

We must remove them to a place of safety. And then, Watson, all that remains is to call on the giggling Dr. Punsonby.

[Dr. Watson]

It's very dark in here, Holmes. I don't like this at all.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quiet. Summit is coming. Good evening, Dr. Punsentine. Let me light your desk lamp for you.

[Dr. Watson]

You startled me. Who are you? What are you doing in my study?

[Sherlock Holmes]

My name is Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson. You've already met.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, we've met. You scoundrel.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Oh yes, my friend, the Scotsman. I was expecting you both. By the way, Please put that revolver away. Firearms make me nervous.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dr. Punsonby. I know how those five boys were murdered. I would venture the opinion that you once spent some time, for the sake of your health, in America. In Arizona territory, I'd say.

[Dr. Punsonby]

I wonder what makes you think that, Mr. Holmes. I've never been in America in my life.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And yet I'm certain that someone here spent some time in the vicinity of the Gila River.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Well, I understand that Mrs. Arkwright was in America a few years ago.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mrs. Arkwright. Dr. Punsonby. Is it possible you're hoping to transfer our suspicions to your accomplice?

[Dr. Punsonby]

My accomplice? You Talk in riddles, Mr. Holmes. It's most confusing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then shall we be more specific? You consider Carruthers Minor to be quite ill, I understand.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Yes, I'm dreadfully worried about it.

[Dr. Watson]

Then let me tell you, Dr. Ponceville, that I examined the boy only a few minutes ago and as a medical man I say that he only has a slight cold.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Then obviously we disagree in our diagnosis, Dr. Watson. After all, you're just a general practitioner, whereas I specialize.

[Dr. Watson]

We know what you specialize in, gentlemen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I suggest the three of us go over to Carruthers Room and hold a consultation. It's just possible that his health has taken a sudden turn for the.

[Dr. Watson]

But the bed's empty.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Carruthers Minor has gone.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, Dr. Punsonby.

[Dr. Watson]

And suppose you take his place? Leave me alone. What are you going to do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Lash you to this bed and see if you can stomach your own filthy medicine?

[Dr. Watson]

This is outrageous.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

Of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I thought that if we were to reconstruct your crimes with you as the victim, we might persuade you to confess.

[Dr. Watson]

Mrs. Arkwright. Mrs. Arkwright.

[Carruthers Minor]

Help.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid she can't help you. She's in her room with the door locked from the outside.

[Dr. Watson]

There we are. Holme. He's lassed up so that he. I can't move. But you don't understand. Mrs. Arkwright has her instructions. Your great hems.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What was that, Mrs. Arkwright? It came from the room above. Come on, Watson, Quick, up the stairs.

[Dr. Watson]

She's fainted again.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Feel her pulse.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll just go to comes. There is no pulse. She's dead.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The poison works fast. Observe those marks on her wrist. Look.

[Dr. Watson]

As if some animal had bitten it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It has. And that means the animal's loose in this room.

[Dr. Watson]

Great heavens.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Somehow it must have escaped from its cage and turned on her. Guard the door, Watson. Our lives are not safe until we've found this monster.

[Dr. Watson]

I don't understand. Look.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Look under that washstand there.

[Dr. Watson]

Good heavens. It's that beaded handbag again. And it's moving.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Give me your walking stick, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There. This diabolical creature has done enough damage for one lifetime.

[Dr. Watson]

It's dead, Holmes. But what in thunder is it? It looks like some sort of lizard. It's all pink and covered all over with black scales. That's what made me Think it was a handbag, but I've never seen a lizard as large as that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of course you haven't. So let me introduce you to the peculiar villain of this piece. His name is Heloderma suspectum, better known as the Gila Monster, indigenous to the Gila river in America.

[Dr. Watson]

I've never seen anything like it before. How on earth did you recognize it, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

When Mr. Coffin, the undertaker, mentioned those strange marks on the dead boys, I was reminded of an article I'd read recently on venomous lizards.

[Dr. Watson]

So that telegram you sent me was

[Sherlock Holmes]

to the Museum of Natural History. Their answer confirmed my suspicions. The Gila monster's bite produces almost instantaneous death and yet it's a poison that would be extremely hard to identify. The fixed bed in the room below us, the trap door directly above it in this room, and the help of an unscrupulous accomplice like Mrs. Arkwright makes the rest of the picture very clear.

[Dr. Watson]

Now that the monster's dead, how are you going to frighten Dr. Ponsonby into a confession?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dr. Punsonby need not know the animal's dead. Examine the floor, Watson. See if you can find that trap door. Meanwhile I'll see if I can find some cord or string. Uh huh. Here's a ball of twine on the dressing table placed there for use in the intended murder of Carruthers. Miner no doubt found the trap.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, there's a ring here in the floor and a section of the carpet's been cut out.

[Lord Manders]

Good.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now to attach the twine to the body of the Gila monster.

[Llewellyn Coffin (Undertaker)]

So.

[Sherlock Holmes]

All right Watson, open the trap door.

[Dr. Watson]

Very well, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well Dr. Punsonby, have you changed your mind? She is dead, Dr. Punsonby. Your Gila monster turned on her.

[Dr. Watson]

No, no.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm going to lower the animal, Watson. There we are.

[Dr. Watson]

A few more feet will do the trick. Holmes.

[Lord Manders]

Yes.

[Dr. Watson]

There, take it away.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I tell you anything, you will sign a confession.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, Mr. Holmes, yes I will. Just take that beast away and I'll sign anything.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We'll be down, Dr. Punson.

[Dr. Watson]

Well Holmes, thank heavens that's done with. What a shocking affair.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes Watson, but not without a note of poetic justice.

[Dr. Watson]

What do you mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well isn't it poetic justice that a dead reptile should be instrumental in bringing a live one to the gallows?

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Quite a gruesome finale, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

It certainly was Mr. Bell. All in all one of the most unpleasant adventures that Holmes and I ever encountered.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

In just a moment Dr. Watson will be back to tell us about next week's story. Girls, how would you like a thrilling new experience? Then just listen to how beautiful Powers models glamour bathe their hair.

[Mrs. Arkwright]

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[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

And Kremel shampoo is so mild and gentle, it positively contains no harsh caustics or chemicals. Instead, it has a beneficial oil base which helps keep the hair from becoming dry or brittle.

[Mrs. Arkwright]

Oh, and don't forget how its luxurious active foam penetrates right to the scalp and removes all loose dandruff as well as the dirt.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Girls, why not follow the advice of these million dollar Powers models and glamour bathe your hair with beautifying Kremel shampoo. It takes only 10 minutes right at home. K R E M L Kremel shampoo. Now, Dr. Watson, how about next week?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, let me see.

[Dr. Punsonby]

Next week.

[Dr. Watson]

Next week I think I'll tell you the adventure of the genuine Garnelius, in which Holmes solved the mystery of Drenko, a famous violinist who was found dead in a locked room touching a suicide note, but who nevertheless had been murdered.

[Joseph Bell (Announcer)]

Tonight's new Sherlock Holmes adventure was suggested by an incident in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story the Speckled Band. Nigel Bruce appeared by permission of California Pictures Tom Conway, through the courtesy of Eagle Lion Pictures. This is Joseph Bell speaking for Kremel Hair Tonic and Kremel Shampoo and inviting you to be with us next week at this same time when Dr. Watson will tell us about the adventure of the genuine Garnerius. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.