Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Episode Summary

Title: Sherlock Holmes: The Three Gables
Hosts: Robert Langford (Sherlock Holmes) & Kenneth Baker (Dr. Watson)
Release Date: June 27, 2025

Introduction & Setting

Sherlock Holmes: The Three Gables transports listeners to the enigmatic corridors of Harrow Weald, where suspense and mystery intertwine. The episode opens with Dr. Watson recounting an unusual visit that set the stage for the unfolding drama.

Notable Quote:
Dr. Watson [01:15]: "Thank you. I don't think any of my adventures with Mr. Sherlock Holmes opened quite so abruptly or so dramatically as that which I associate with the Three Gables. Holmes was in a chatty mood that morning... What the devil."

Characters Introduction

• Sherlock Holmes (Robert Langford): The iconic detective, analytical and sharp.
• Dr. John Watson (Kenneth Baker): Holmes's steadfast companion.
• Mrs. Maberly (Margaret Ingalls): The client seeking Holmes's assistance.
• Steve Dixie (George Carellen): A burly figure with questionable intentions.
• Susan (Beth Butler): Mrs. Maberly's maid, entangled in the mystery.
• Inspector Lestrade (Tony J.): The persistent Scotland Yard inspector.
• Isadora Klein (Elizabeth Hamilton): A sophisticated widow with a hidden agenda.

The Mysterious Invitation

Mrs. Mary Maberly approaches Holmes and Watson with a letter detailing strange incidents at her home, The Three Gables. Her late husband, Mortimer Maberly, was a former client of Holmes, adding a personal stake to the investigation.

Notable Quote:
Mrs. Maberly [04:20]: "Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I've had a succession of strange incidents occur to me in connection with this house and I would much value your advice."

Initial Investigation & Suspicious Encounters

Upon visiting Mrs. Maberly, Holmes discerns that she's being intimidated by members of the Spencer John gang—specifically Barney Stockdale and Steve Dixie. A tense confrontation ensues when Steve Dixie attempts to assert dominance, revealing the gang's interest in Mrs. Maberly's estate.

Notable Quote:
Holmes [02:33]: "What would you gather from that?"

The Burglary Attack

The plot thickens when Mrs. Maberly is burgled under suspicious circumstances. Chloroform is used to incapacitate her, and while nothing valuable appears to be taken, a mysterious manuscript in her son's handwriting is found. Inspector Lestrade downplays the incident as a simple burglary, but Holmes senses deeper motives at play.

Notable Quote:
Mrs. Maberly [19:15]: "I was conscious for an instant of the chloroform being pressed to my mouth, but I have no notion how long."

Uncovering the Manuscript

Holmes analyzes a fragment of a novel found at the crime scene, noticing inconsistencies in tense and perspective. This leads him to suspect that the manuscript is more than just a simple piece of writing—it might hold critical information or secrets related to the motivations behind the burglary.

Notable Quote:
Holmes [21:00]: "245? I. And no doubt asked yourself where the odd 244 pages have got to."

Confrontation with Isadora Klein

The investigation points towards Isadora Klein, a wealthy widow with a tumultuous past involving her late son, Douglas Maberly. Holmes confronts her, unraveling her desperation to protect her reputation and her role in the theft of the manuscript. Isadora admits to orchestrating the burglary to retrieve a manuscript that could ruin her impending marriage to the Duke of Loman.

Notable Quote:
Isadora Klein [28:16]: "A woman with a scandal hanging over her and her whole future at stake."

Resolution

Under pressure from Holmes’s unwavering logic and observation, Isadora Klein confesses her motives. She intended to steal her son’s manuscript, fearing its contents would expose her and jeopardize her social standing. Holmes ensures that justice is served, while also highlighting the personal tragedies that often underlie criminal actions.

Notable Quote:
Holmes [30:41]: "Then I think you will sign me a cheque for that amount and I will see that it reaches Mrs. Maberly."

Conclusion & Next Steps

The episode concludes with Mrs. Maberly expressing gratitude for Holmes’s intervention, while Holmes hints at future adventures, maintaining his commitment to justice. Dr. Watson reflects on the complexities of human motivations, emphasizing the thin line between right and wrong.

Notable Quote:
Dr. Watson [31:36]: "In episode three of the Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson were played by Robert Langford and Kenneth Baker..."

Episode Highlights

• Intricate Plotting: The episode masterfully weaves personal tragedy with criminal intent, showcasing Holmes's unparalleled deductive skills.
• Character Depth: Isadora Klein is portrayed not just as a villain, but as a multifaceted character driven by desperation.
• Engaging Dialogues: Sharp exchanges between Holmes and other characters keep the narrative dynamic and engrossing.
• Atmospheric Setting: The ambiance of Harrow Weald adds a classic noir feel, enhancing the mystery's allure.

Upcoming Episode Tease

The episode concludes with a teaser for next week's adventure, The Illustrious Client, promising more enthralling detective work and intricate storytelling.

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