Sherlock Holmes: The Three Gables (Langford & Baker)

Summary

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

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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."

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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.

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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."

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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?"

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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."

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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..."

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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.

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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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Enjoyed this summary? Make sure to tune in next time for another riveting episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives!

Transcript

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[Todd Beam]

To Choice Classic Radio where we bring.

[Choice Classic Radio]

To you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] and to introduce our Sherlock Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Adventure entitled the Three Gables, here is Dr. Watson. 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. He had just curled down with his pipe in his mouth on a well worn armchair across the fireside from me when our visitor arrived. If I'd said that a mad bull had arrived, it'd give a clearer impression. What the devil.

[Steve Dixie]

Which of you two is homes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Yes, it is a pleasant morning for the time of year.

[Steve Dixie]

Oh, it's you, is it? We'll see.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Here.

[Steve Dixie]

Keep your hands out of other folks business. Leave folks to manage their own affairs. Got that?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Do keep on talking. It's fine.

[Steve Dixie]

Oh, fine, is it? It won't be so damn fine if I have to trim you up a bit. I've handled your kind before now. They didn't look fine when I was through with them.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Look at that. I do believe it's a fist. Or is it? Tell me, were you born so or did it come by degrees?

[Steve Dixie]

I'll give you a fair warning, see of a friend that's interested out Arrow way. You know what I mean? He don't intend to have no button in by you. You ain't the law and I ain't the law. And if you come shoving in, I'll be on end.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You know I wanted to meet you for some time. I won't ask you to sit down, but aren't you Steve Dixie the Bruiser?

[Steve Dixie]

What if I am?

[Choice Classic Radio]

I was just recalling the killing of young Perkins outside the Holborn Bar.

[Steve Dixie]

I didn't have nothing to do with Perkins. I was training at the bullring in Birmingham when he got done in.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Really? Well, all the same, I've got my eye on you, Steve. You and Barney Stockdale.

[Steve Dixie]

But so help me, that's enough.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I can pick you up whenever I want you. Now get out of here.

[Steve Dixie]

There ain't no hard feelings, Mr. Holmes, nothing personal.

[Choice Classic Radio]

There will be unless you tell me who sent you.

[Steve Dixie]

Well, ain't no secret about that. Stockdale sent me. Him you just mentioned.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Then what's it all about?

[Steve Dixie]

To help me? I dunno, Steve. He says you go and see that Holmes and tell him his life ain't safe if he goes down Arrow way. That's the truth, honest.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I'll believe you if no one else would. Now get out.

[Steve Dixie]

Sure, Mr. Holmes. I'm going. Morning, gents. Bow, sir.

[Choice Classic Radio]

When I saw you reaching for that poker, Watson, I thought you might be going to break his fat head.

[Dr. Watson]

One sign from you, Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Oh, he's a harmless fellow, really. A great, muscular, foolish, blustering baby.

[Dr. Watson]

You turned him down easily enough.

[Choice Classic Radio]

This fellow? Barney Stockdale's rather more astute. They belong to the Spencer John gang. Assault, intimidation and the like. They've been mixed up in some dirty work lately, which I may clear up when I've got time.

[Dr. Watson]

But why do they want to intimidate you?

[Choice Classic Radio]

It's the Harrow Weald case.

[Dr. Watson]

Something new to me, Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I was just settling down to tell you about it before we had that comic interlude. I see. Here's a note from the lady concerned, Mrs. Mabel.

[Dr. Watson]

Thanks. Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I've had a succession of strange incidents occur to me in connection with this house and I should much value your advice. You would find me at home any time tomorrow. The house is within a short walk of the wheeled station. I believe that my late husband, Mortimer Mabley, was one of your clients. Yours faithfully, Mary Mabley. The Three Gables, Harrow Weald.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I wasn't at all sure whether to go, but if it's worth anybody's while taking the trouble to stop me, and there must be something in it. Care to come with me? Of course. Excellent. We'll wire her and set off at once. I remember your husband well, madam, though it's some years since he used my services in some trifling matter.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Probably you would Be more familiar with the name of my son. Douglas, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

Douglas Mabley. The Douglas Maberly?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Dear me, Douglas Maberly. I knew him slightly, but then all London knew him. What a magnificent creature.

[Dr. Watson]

Where is he these days, Mrs. Mabelie?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Dead.

[Dr. Watson]

Dead?

[Mrs. Maberly]

He was attache at Rome. He died there of pneumonia last month.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I am sorry, Mrs. Mabley. One cannot connect death with such a man. I've never known anyone so intensely alive.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Too intensely, Mr. Holmes. That was the ruin of him.

[Dr. Watson]

He's ruined.

[Mrs. Maberly]

You remember him as he was, debonair and splendid. You did not see the moody, morose, brooding creature into which he developed in a single month. I seemed to see my gallant boy turn into a worn out, cynical man.

[Choice Classic Radio]

A love affair, a woman or a fiend.

[Mrs. Maberly]

But it was not to talk of my poor boy that I asked you to come. Mr. Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Dr. Watson and I are at your service, ma' am.

[Mrs. Maberly]

There have been some very strange happenings. I have been in this house more than a year now and as I wish to lead a retired life, I have seen little of my neighbours. Three days ago I had a call from a man who said he was a house agent. He said that this house would exactly suit a client of his and that if I would part with it, money would be no object.

[Dr. Watson]

Strange sort of approach.

[Mrs. Maberly]

That was how it seemed to me, Doctor, especially since there are several empty houses on the market in this neighbourhood which appear to be equally eligible. However, I was interested in what he said. I named a price which was £500 more than I gave. He closed at once, but added that his client would wish to buy the furniture as well and asked me to put a price on it.

[Dr. Watson]

Remarkable way to go on.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Some of this furniture is from my old home and it is, as you see, very good. So I named a good round sum to this. He also agreed I had always wanted to travel and the whole bargain was so good that it rarely seemed that I should be my own mistress but the rest of my life.

[Choice Classic Radio]

But some snag has arisen.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Yesterday the man arrived with the agreement all drawn out. Luckily I showed it to Mr. Sutro, my lawyer. He said to me, this is a very strange document. Are you aware that if you sign it you could not legally take anything out of the house, not even your own private possession? Good heavens.

[Choice Classic Radio]

So what did you do, Mrs. Mabley?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Why, when the man came again in the evening, I pointed this out and said that I meant only to sell the furniture. He said, no, no, it must be everything. Well, naturally I argued about my clothes, my jewels and in the end he agreed to make some concessions as to my personal effects, but he insisted that nothing must leave the house unchecked.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Did he give any reason for this extraordinary demand?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Nothing beyond saying that his client was a very liberal man but had certain fads and fancies and his own way of doing things evidently.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Then what was the outcome?

[Mrs. Maberly]

I refused. Much as I was tempted by the money. I could not bring myself to submit to such terms.

[Steve Dixie]

And.

[Dr. Watson]

And?

[Mrs. Maberly]

What is it, Mr. Holmes? Where are you going?

[Isadora Klein]

Susan?

[Susan]

Leave me alone. What do you think you're doing?

[Mrs. Maberly]

What is this? Susan?

[Susan]

Ma' am, I was just coming to ask if the visitors were staying for lunch when this, this man jumps out and drags me in like you see.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I have been listening to her for the last five minutes. People who wheeze shouldn't listen at keyholes. Susan.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Susan.

[Susan]

Maloosie. Anyway, what right has he to go pulling a girl about like that?

[Choice Classic Radio]

It was merely that I wished to ask a question in your presence, Mrs. Maberley. Did you mention to anyone that you were going to write to me and consult me?

[Mrs. Maberly]

No Mr. Holmes, I did not.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Who posted your letter?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Susan did.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Exactly. Now Susan, to whom did you write or send a message to say that your mistress was asking advice from me?

[Susan]

It's a lie. I sent no message.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Now Susan. Wicked people may not live long, you know. Who was it?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Susan, I believe you are a bad, treacherous woman. I remember now seeing you speaking to someone over the hedge.

[Susan]

That was my business.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Suppose I tell you it was Barney Stockdale you saw?

[Mrs. Maberly]

I'm not saying.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Well, I wasn't sure. But I now know. Susan, it'll be worth ten pounds to you if you will tell me who is at the back of Barney.

[Susan]

Someone that could lay down a thousand quid for every 10 you've got in the world.

[Choice Classic Radio]

A rich man, eh? Ah, you smile. A rich woman. Oh come now that we've got so far you might as well give me her name and earn your tenor.

[Susan]

I'm clearing out of here. I've had enough of the lot of you and I'll send for my box tomorrow.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Goodbye, Susan. Paregoric is the stuff for that chest of yours. Now, Mrs. Mapley. This gang means business. Look how close they play the game. Your letter to me at the 10pm postmark yet Susan passes the word to Barney, Barney goes to his employer, a plan is formed, Big Steve Dixie is called in and I am warned off all by 11 o'clock next morning. That's quick work you know.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Yes, I see. But what do they Want?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Who had this house before you, Mrs. Mabelle?

[Mrs. Maberly]

A retired sea captain called Ferguson.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Anything remarkable about him?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Not to my knowledge.

[Dr. Watson]

Wondering whether he'd buried some treasure in the house, Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

It's a possibility. Of course when people bury treasure nowadays they do it in the post office. There are always some lunatics about. It'll be a dull world without them. At first I thought of some buried valuables but why in that case should they want your furniture? You don't happen to have a Raphael or a First Folio Shakespeare?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Without knowing it I don't think I have anything rarer than a Crown Derby tea set.

[Dr. Watson]

That'd hardly justify all this mystery, would it? I mean if they want your tea set they're ready to offer a price for it straight out without buying you up lock, stock and barrel. What I can't understand Holmes, is why they don't openly say what they do want.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Because as I read it, my dear Watson, there is something which Mrs. Maberley does not know she has and which she would not give up if she did know.

[Dr. Watson]

Ah, that's it.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Dr. Watson agrees. So that settled it.

[Mrs. Maberly]

But what can it be?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Mr. Holmes, let us see whether we can get to a finer point by purely mental analysis. You have been in this house a year, I believe nearly two. All the better. During this long period no one has wanted anything from you. Now suddenly within three or four days you have urgent demands. What would you gather from that?

[Mrs. Maberly]

I really don't know.

[Dr. Watson]

It must mean that the object, whatever it may be, has only just come into the house.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Bravo. Has any object just arrived?

[Mrs. Maberly]

No, I've bought nothing new this year.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Indeed, this is very remarkable. Well I think we'd best let matters develop a little further until we have a clearer data. Is that Laurier of yours a capable man?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Mr. Sutra is very capable.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Have you another maid or is the fair Susan alone?

[Mrs. Maberly]

I have a young girl.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Then try to get Sutro to spend a night or two in the house. You may need protection.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Protection against whom?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Who knows? The matter is certainly obscure. If I can't find what they are after I must approach the matter from the other end and try and get at the principal. Did this house agent give any address?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Only his name. Haynes, Johnson.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I don't think we shall find him in the directory. Honest businessmen don't conceal their place of business. Well. You'll let me know any fresh developments?

[Mrs. Maberly]

Most certainly Mr. Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You may rely upon it that I shall see your case through.

[Mrs. Maberly]

It was very good of you to come.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Not at all, I. Hello. What is it? Mr. Holmes, these trunks and suitcases in the hall, I see they're labeled. From Italy.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Yes, they're poor, Douglas things.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You haven't unpacked them. How long have you had them?

[Mrs. Maberly]

They arrived last week.

[Choice Classic Radio]

But you said. Why? Surely this might be the missing link. How do we know there isn't something of value in there?

[Mrs. Maberly]

There couldn't possibly be. Poor Douglas only had his paper pay and a small annuity. What could he have of value?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Delay no longer. Mrs. Mabel, have those things taken up to your bedroom. Examine them as soon as possible and see what they contain. I will come tomorrow and hear your report. Good day, madam.

[Dr. Watson]

Good day, ma' am.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Good day, gentlemen.

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[Choice Classic Radio]

Hello.

[Dr. Watson]

What now?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Watching this place closely enough, see our prize fighting friend lurking near the gate? What, you again, Steve?

[Steve Dixie]

Oh, you reaching for your gun, Mr. Hobbs?

[Choice Classic Radio]

No, for my scent bottle till I get past you.

[Steve Dixie]

Real funny.

[Choice Classic Radio]

It won't be funny for you if I get after you, Steve.

[Steve Dixie]

Look, Mr. Holmes, I've been thinking about that. I don't want no trouble over that Perkins affair. Suppose. Yeah, suppose I can help you instead.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You can, Steve. Tell me who's behind Barney in this job, sir? Me.

[Steve Dixie]

I dunno. Barney gives the orders and that's as far as I go.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Well then, just bear in mind that the lady in that house and everything under that roof is under my protection. Don't forget it.

[Steve Dixie]

All right, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll remember. Scared him stiff.

[Choice Classic Radio]

But I don't think he knows who his boss is. He'd drop across him readily enough if he did.

[Dr. Watson]

How are you going to find out who's behind it then? Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

I think this is a case for Langdale Pike.

[Dr. Watson]

Langdale Pike? Going for a climb, Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Langdale pike, my dear Watson, is my human book of reference on all matters of social scandal. He spends his waking hours in the bow window of St. James's Street Publishing. And he is the receiving station and transmitter of all the gossip of the metropolis.

[Dr. Watson]

Aha.

[Choice Classic Radio]

They say he makes a four figure income out of the paragraphs he contributes to the garbage papers. If ever far down in the turgid depths of London life there's some strange swirl or eddy. You can be sure it's marked with automatic exactness by this human dial on the surface. Oh really, Holmes. Oh, I mean it. Yes, this is a case for Langdale Pike, Watson. I have a good many inquiries to pursue. We'll part our ways here and I probably shan't see you again until morning. Adieu.

[Dr. Watson]

Bye, Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

My dear Watson. I didn't disturb you last night I hope.

[Dr. Watson]

Never heard a sound. Holmes. Mrs. Hudson just gave me this telegram for you.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Thank you.

[Dr. Watson]

Early in the morning for that sort of thing.

[Choice Classic Radio]

An unpleasant surprise. Into the bargain. Please come out at once. Client's house, burgle in the night. Police in possession. Sutro. I say so the drama comes to a crisis quicker than I'd expected. This lawyer of hers has proved a broken reed. I made a mistake in not asking you to keep guard there.

[Dr. Watson]

Nothing for it but another journey there immediately.

[Choice Classic Radio]

There's a great driving power at the back of this business. We must lose no time ourselves.

[Dr. Watson]

Look, Holmes, our old friend astrayed. Morning, Inspector.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Morning, Dr. Watson. Well, Mr. Holmes, there's no chance for you in this case, I'm sorry to say. Just a Commodore Garden burglary, well within the capacity of the poor old police. No experts need applying.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I'm sure the matter is in very good hands, Lestrade. Common burglary you say?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Not a doubt. We know who they are and where to find them. That Barney Stockdale lot, Steve Dixie and them. They've been hanging around here.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Really? What did they get?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Oh, nothing much, Claude.

[Choice Classic Radio]

A form.

[Inspector Lestrade]

The lady though. Oh, here she is with her lawyer Sutro.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Mr. Who?

[Dr. Watson]

Yeah. Pray sit down, madam.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Thank you, Doctor. You gave me good advice, Mr. Holmes. Alas, I didn't take it and I left myself unprotected.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, Mrs. Maberley looks wretchedly ill. I. I don't think she should be troubled now.

[Inspector Lestrade]

It's all in my notebook anyway.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Madam, if you are not too exhausted I should like to hear your story for myself.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes.

[Mrs. Maberly]

It's all right, Doctor, there's so little to tell. I have no doubt that wicked Susan arranged for them to get in. They must have known the house to an inch. I was conscious for an instant of the chloroform gag being pressed to my mouth, but I have no notion how long. I was senseless. When I woke one man was at the bedside and another was removing something for my son's baggage which I'd taken up to my room as you suggested. I sprang up and seized this man.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You took a big risk, ma' am.

[Mrs. Maberly]

I clung to him, but he shook me off and the other must have struck me. I can remember no more. Evidently my little maid Mary heard the noise and began screaming out of the window. That brought the police. But the rascals had got away.

[Choice Classic Radio]

What did they take?

[Inspector Lestrade]

That's what I want to know, but.

[Mrs. Maberly]

I can't tell you. I'm sure there was nothing of value in my son's trunks and nothing else is missing.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Any clues?

[Inspector Lestrade]

The strayed this sheet of paper. The fellow may have dropped it when Mrs. Mabley tackled him.

[Mrs. Maberly]

It's in my son's handwriting and therefore.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Not much value to us men. Now, if it had been in the burglar's writing.

[Choice Classic Radio]

What rugged common sense. Nonetheless, I should like to see it.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Here you are, then. I always hang on to anything, however trifling. That's my advice to you, Mr. Holmes. There's almost a chance of fingerprints or something.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Thank you, Lestrade. Hmm. What do you make of this paper?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, looks like something he was trying to write. You know, a novel or something. Queer stuff. If you'll pardon me, ma' am.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Well done, Lestrade. In fact, it may be the end of this novel. May end it. You've noticed the number at the top of the page? 245? I.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Yes, I had noticed that, yes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

And no doubt asked yourself where the odd 244 pages have got to.

[Inspector Lestrade]

I expect the burglar's got those. And much good may it do them.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Yet it seems an odd thing to break into a house in order to steal papers of that kind. Doesn't it suggest anything to you, Inspector?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Yes, it suggests that in their hurry, they just grabbed at what came first to hand.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Why should they go to my son's things, Inspector?

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well, ma' am, they found nothing valuable down below, so they tried their luck upstairs.

[Mrs. Maberly]

That's how I read it, Mr. Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I must think it over. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Will you come over here, please?

[Dr. Watson]

Certainly. What is it, Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Read this fragment of the novel, or whatever it is.

[Dr. Watson]

Very well. Face bled considerably from the cuts and blows, but it was nothing to the bleeding of his heart as he saw that lovely face. The face for which he had been prepared to sacrifice his very life, looking out at his agony and humiliation. She smiled. Yes, by heaven, she smiled like the heartless fiend that she is as he looked up at her. It was at that moment that love died and hate was born. Man must live for something. If it is not for your embrace, my lady. Then it shall be for your undoing and my complete revenge. I wouldn't commit burglary to that.

[Choice Classic Radio]

But did you notice the grammar? How the tense changed from the past to present and the third person to the first?

[Dr. Watson]

You're right. As though. As though he'd got so carried away by what he was writing that it seemed as if he was himself mixed up in it.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Precisely. Lestrade is welcome to have this back.

[Inspector Lestrade]

Well did you find anything in it, Mr. Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Here you are, Lestrade. No, I don't think there's anything more for me to do now that the case is in your capable hands. Oh, by the way Mrs. Mabley, did you say you wish to travel?

[Mrs. Maberly]

It's always been my dream, Mr. Holmes.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Where would you like to go? Cairo? Madeira? The Riviera?

[Isadora Klein]

Oh, if I had the money I.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Should go round the world.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Round the world, quite so. Well, good morning. I may drop your line in the evening.

[Mrs. Maberly]

Well, what a strange man Inspector.

[Inspector Lestrade]

You know these clever fellows. Ma' am. What was the touch of the you know what, eh?

[Choice Classic Radio]

Now my dear Watson, we are at the last lap of our little journey. Well I hope you're not going to.

[Dr. Watson]

Drop me off and tell me that you'll see me in 24 hours and that's all. No. If you're near to a solution I want to be in on it.

[Choice Classic Radio]

My dear fellow, I shouldn't dream of abandoning you. In any case I shall feel safer with a witness. It's always advisable in dealing with such ladies as is. Isadora Klein is a who? Does the name really convey nothing to you? A man of your experience? There was never a woman to touch her. Pure Spanish, the real blood of the Conquistadores. She married the old German sugar king Klein and presently found herself the richest as well as the loveliest widow on earth.

[Dr. Watson]

You don't say.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I followed an interval of adventure when she pleased her own tastes. Aha. Yes, Watson, she had several lovers and Douglas Mabley was one of the most striking men in London. He was one of them.

[Dr. Watson]

Of all I ever heard of Maverley, he was anything but a social butterfly.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Exactly. He was a strong, proud man who gave all and expected all. Their association was known mere adventure to him. But she is the belle Dame Sommercy of fiction. When her caprice is satisfied the matter is ended. And if the other party can't take her word for it, she knows how to bring it home to him.

[Dr. Watson]

Then? Then it was his own story he was writing.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You're piecing it together now, I hear also from my friend Langdale pike who supplied all the rest. But Isadora Klein is now about to marry the Duke of Loman who might almost be her son. His Grace's mother might overlook the age question but a big scandal would be a different matter. Ah, here we are.

[Isadora Klein]

I should like to know the meaning of this intrusion, gentlemen.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I need not explain, madam. I have too much respect for your intelligence to do so. Though I fancy that intelligence has been surprisingly at fault of late.

[Isadora Klein]

How so?

[Choice Classic Radio]

In supposing that your hired bullies would frighten me off. Surely no man could take up my profession if it weren't that danger attracts him.

[Isadora Klein]

I do not know what you are talking about. What have I to do with hired bullies?

[Choice Classic Radio]

I seem to have overrated your intelligence, madam. Good afternoon. Come Watson. Stop.

[Isadora Klein]

Where are you going?

[Choice Classic Radio]

To Scotland Yard.

[Isadora Klein]

Oh come, come and sit down, gentlemen. Let us talk this matter over. I feel that I may be Frank with you, Mr. Holmes. You have the feelings of a gentleman.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I?

[Isadora Klein]

How quick a woman's instinct is to find it out. I will treat you as a friend.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I cannot promise to reciprocate, madam. I am not the law but I represent justice. So far as my feeble powers go I am ready to listen. And then I will tell you how I will act.

[Isadora Klein]

No doubt it was foolish of me to threaten a brave man like yourself.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Mott was really foolish. Is that you have placed yourself in the power of rascals who may blackmail you or give you away.

[Isadora Klein]

No, no, I'm not so simple. No one save Barney Stockdale and Susan his wife.

[Dr. Watson]

Susan? Mrs. Maple is maid the same.

[Isadora Klein]

No one except Stockdale and Susan knows who their employer is. They are good hounds who run silent.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Such hounds also have a way sooner or later of biting the hand that feeds them. They'll be arrested for the burglary, you know. The police are onto them.

[Isadora Klein]

They will take what comes to them without saying more. That is what they are paid for. I shall not appear in the matter.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Unless I bring you into it.

[Isadora Klein]

But you would not. You are a gentleman. It is a woman's secret.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You must give back that stolen manuscript.

[Isadora Klein]

See? See here.

[Choice Classic Radio]

What?

[Dr. Watson]

In the file. It's full of paper ash.

[Isadora Klein]

Shall I give that back? Shall I? Mr. Sherlock Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

You have sealed your fate, madam. You have gone too far this time.

[Isadora Klein]

How hard you are. May I tell you the whole story?

[Choice Classic Radio]

I fancy I could tell it to.

[Isadora Klein]

You, but you must look at it with my eyes, Mr. Holmes. You must understand it from the point of view of a woman who sees all her life's ambition about to be ruined at the last moment. Is such a woman to be blamed as she protects herself?

[Choice Classic Radio]

The original sin was yours, that I admit.

[Isadora Klein]

He was a dear boy, Douglas, but he did not fit into my plans. He wanted marriage. Marriage for me, Mr. Holmes, with a penniless commoner. But no, nothing less would serve him. Because I had given, he seemed to think that I still must give, and to him only. Twas intolerable. At last I had to make him realize it. But could I have believed that a gentleman would do such a thing? Then what did he do? He wrote a book. He wrote it to tell his own story. I, of course, was the wolf and he the lamb. It was all there under different names, of course. But who in London would have failed to recognize it? What do you say to that? Mr. Sherlock Holmes?

[Choice Classic Radio]

He was within his rights.

[Isadora Klein]

It was as if the air of Italy had got into his blood and brought with it the old cruel Italian spirit. He wrote to me and sent me a copy of his book so that I might have the torture of anticipation. There were two copies, he said, one for me and one for his publisher.

[Dr. Watson]

But there must have been three. There's the one you had stolen from his luggage, that one you burnt down.

[Isadora Klein]

Oh no, don't you see? I knew who was his publisher. I found out that no manuscript had reached him from Italy. And then came Douglas's sudden death. I knew that the manuscript must still be amongst his belongings and that so long as it existed, there could be no safety for me.

[Dr. Watson]

So you had to steal it from his mother's house?

[Isadora Klein]

What else could I do, Mr. Holmes? A woman with a scandal hanging over her and her whole future at stake.

[Choice Classic Radio]

I suppose I shall have to compound a felony as usual. Tell me, Madam Kline, how much does it cost to go round the world? A first class, of course.

[Isadora Klein]

Random, I do not understand.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Could it be done on £5,000?

[Isadora Klein]

Why, I should think certainly.

[Steve Dixie]

Capital.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Then I think you will sign me a cheque for that amount and I will see that it reaches Mrs. Maberly. After all the distress she has suffered, you owe her a little change of air.

[Isadora Klein]

Oh, but I.

[Choice Classic Radio]

You broke her son's heart.

[Isadora Klein]

God knows I am sorry for that. Very well, I will pay her.

[Choice Classic Radio]

And madam? Yes, have a care, have a care. Even a woman so beautiful as you can't play with sharp edged tools forever without cutting those dainty hands.

[Dr. Watson]

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, others in the cast were Margaret Ingalls, Elizabeth Hamilton, Beth Butler, George Carellen, and Tony J. Next week's adventure is entitled the Illustrious Client.

[Choice Classic Radio]

Ugh.

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