BONUS - Happy Birthday, Orson Welles

Summary

Podcast Summary: Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)
Episode: BONUS – Happy Birthday, Orson Welles (May 7, 2026)

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Overview

This special bonus episode marks the birthday of Orson Welles (May 6, 1915), celebrating his immense contribution to radio drama—particularly his legendary work adapting and performing Sherlock Holmes for radio audiences. The episode is a curated showcase of two of Welles’ best radio detective performances:

• As Sherlock Holmes in the Mercury Theatre’s 1938 adaptation of William Gillette’s “Sherlock Holmes.”
• As Professor Moriarty—the archenemy—in an English-produced radio retelling of “The Final Problem” starring John Gielgud as Holmes.

The host sets the episode’s purpose as “a birthday celebration in honor of Orson Welles” and invites listeners to revisit the atmospheric world of Baker Street, focusing on the duality of Welles as both Holmes and his nemesis.

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Key Discussion Points and Episode Breakdown

1. Orson Welles’s Legacy in Radio (00:56–03:06)

• Host introduces Welles’s cultural impact, noting his fame from “Citizen Kane” but emphasizing his foundational roles in Golden Age radio:
  • “Radio was a major part of Welles’ career. He thrilled audiences as the voice of the Shadow and he infamously frightened them with the legendary broadcast of War of the Worlds.” (Host, 01:19)
• Highlights Welles’s varied radio talents, including comedy, drama, and suspense.
• Introduces the two featured programs:
  • The Mercury Theatre adaptation of “Sherlock Holmes”—Orson Welles as Holmes (Sept 25, 1938).
  • "The Final Problem”—Orson Welles as Moriarty (produced in England, with John Gielgud and Ralph Richardson).

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2. Mercury Theatre’s “Sherlock Holmes” with Orson Welles (03:06–57:52)

Opening & Welles’s Introduction (03:06–07:04)

• Welles contextualizes Sherlock Holmes as one of fiction’s “permanent profiles,” alongside Punch and Charlie Chaplin, and speaks reverently about William Gillette’s influence:
  • "There are only a few of them, these permanent profiles… Punch and the charlies, chaplin and McCarthy Quixote. Sir John and Sherlock Holmes." (Welles as Holmes, 04:25)
  • He credits Gillette as “the aquiline and actual embodiment of Holmes himself.” (06:00)

Acts I & II: The Web of Moriarty (09:15–37:31)

• Holmes’s friendship with Watson is established, displaying the baker street atmosphere, deduction “games,” and Watson’s loyalty.
  • Notable Quote: “How do I know anything? …scratches and clumsy cuts, my dear fellow.” (Holmes, 09:29)
• Holmes introduces the case: a nobleman’s indiscretion leads to a blackmail plot, with the sinister Professor Moriarty lurking behind the scenes.
  • “It is precisely this quality of invisibility that makes of Professor Moriarty the Napoleon of crime.” (Holmes, 11:02)

Confrontations and Escalation (19:43–34:33)

• Holmes exposes Larrabee and Chetwode’s deception in the Faulkner affair, including rescuing Alice Faulkner from clear abuse.
• Holmes’ encounter with Moriarty, both sparring with wits and firearms, is a highlight:
  • “It’s a dangerous habit, Mr. Holmes, to finger loaded firearms in the pocket of one’s dressing gown.” (Moriarty, 31:51)
  • “I give you my word, Professor Moriarty, you’ll be taken from here to the hospital if you keep your hand behind you like that.” (Holmes, 31:57)

The Trap & Holmes’s Escape (39:20–56:44)

• Holmes is lured into a gassed, escape-proof room by Moriarty’s henchmen; Holmes outsmarts them with a trick involving a cigar, a chair, and a fakeout at the window:
  • “No gentlemen, no, not by the window. I’m leaving by the door. By the way, I left my cigar for you on the windowsill. Good evening, gentlemen.” (Holmes, 48:36)
• Holmes reunites with Watson, revealing his daring escape and reapplying classic Holmesian showmanship.
• “Elementary, my dear Watson. The child’s play of deduction.” (Holmes, multiple times throughout, e.g., 56:44)

Resolution (55:48–57:52)

• Moriarty is taken away; Holmes has returned the letters to their rightful owner.
• Holmes laments that London, without Moriarty, “is likely to become a singularly uninteresting city…a wilderness of boredom.” (56:00)

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3. “The Final Problem” – Orson Welles as Professor Moriarty (62:36–87:38)

Setting the Stage (61:40–65:02)

• A more somber Watson (Ralph Richardson) reflects on chronicling Holmes’ last adventure; tension is immediate as Holmes fears for his life.
• Holmes tells Watson of the unique threat posed by the criminal genius:
  • “He’s the Napoleon of crime, Watson. The secret organizer of almost everything evil…He controls them, every one.” (Holmes, 66:41)

The Duel of Intellects (67:50–73:55)

• The verbal duel between Holmes and Moriarty (Welles) is at the episode’s heart:
  • “May I say something personal, Mr. Holmes?...I’m surprised to discover you have less cranial development than I expected.” (Moriarty, 68:09)
  • “On the contrary, I think I know you better than you know yourself.” (Holmes, 69:11)
• An atmosphere of mutual respect and deadly intent pervades the exchange.

Flight and Pursuit (74:16–81:59)

• Holmes details his plan for a disguised, circuitous escape to the continent; Watson’s loyalty is unwavering.
  • “Our lives depend upon it…Never take the first or second cab.” (Holmes, 75:04)
• The plot to evade Moriarty across Europe, including train escapes, disguises, and fiery threats to Baker Street.

The Reichenbach Falls Confrontation (82:33–87:18)

• Holmes and Moriarty share their final deadly meeting:
  • “One or the other of us must die, must die, Mr. Holmes.” (Moriarty, 63:08, echoed at 83:08)
• In an act of fair play, they discard firearms for a hand-to-hand struggle:
  • “Your courtesy puts me to shame, Professor. Here is my pistol. It goes into the forms.” (Holmes, 84:41)
• Watson discovers only two sets of footprints leading to the abyss, and Holmes’s final letter of friendship:
  • “Believe me to be my very dear good friend, yours most sincerely, Sherlock Holmes.” (Holmes’s letter, 86:05)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (with approximate timestamps)

• On the Unreality of Holmes (Welles as Holmes):
  “There are only a few of them, these permanent profiles…There is also the tall gentleman with the hawk’s face and the underslung pipe... Sherlock Holmes.” (04:06)
• Introduction of Moriarty’s “Web”:
  “Sitting motionless like an ugly venomous spider in the center of his web.” (Holmes, 11:02)
• Holmes’s Showmanship and Deductions:
  “Elementary, my dear Watson, elementary. The mere child’s play of deduction.” (10:12, repeated 56:44)
• Holmes vs. Moriarty: The Verbal Duel:
  “It’s a dangerous habit, Mr. Holmes, to finger loaded firearms in the pocket of one’s dressing gown.” (Moriarty, 31:51)
  “On the contrary, I think I know you better than you know yourself.” (Holmes, 69:11)
• The Escape from the Gas Trap:
  “No gentlemen, no, not by the window. I’m leaving by the door. By the way, I left my cigar for you on the windowsill. Good evening, gentlemen.” (48:36)
• Holmes’s “Death”:
  “One or the other of us must die, must die, Mr. Holmes.” (Moriarty, repeated motif) “Believe me to be, my very dear, good friend... Yours most sincerely, Sherlock Holmes.” (86:05)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• Host Intro & Orson Welles’s Radio Career Overview: 00:56–03:06
• Welles’s Tribute to Holmes and William Gillette: 04:06–07:04
• Holmes Explains the Case and Introduces Moriarty: 10:09–11:27
• Holmes vs. Larrabee and the Blackmailers: 14:47–21:46
• Holmes’s Confrontation with Moriarty: 31:51–37:31
• Holmes Outsmarts the Gas Trap: 48:24–48:56
• “Final Problem” Opening & Holmes-Moriarty Duel: 62:36–73:55
• The Reichenbach Falls Scene: 82:33–87:18
• Holmes’s Death Letter Read by Watson: 86:05–87:12

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Episode Tone & Style

• A celebratory, atmospheric, and respectful approach to radio drama history.
• True to the original flair and linguistic elegance of the scripts; Welles’s voices fuse gravity, wit, and bravado.
• The sound design, orchestration (by Bernard Herrmann), and performances evoke the suspense and adventure of classic detective fiction.

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Why This Episode Is Special

• Offers a rare chance to hear Orson Welles’ versatility inhabiting both Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty.
• Illuminates Welles’s reverence for classic detective fiction and celebrates radio’s power to bring those stories to dramatic life.
• The selected adaptations bring together some of the greatest talents of the era, including John Gielgud and Ralph Richardson.

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For the Listener New to Golden Age Radio

Even if you are new to Orson Welles or classic radio drama, this episode is packed with standout moments, sharp dialogue, and the essence of detective storytelling. The clips showcase not only the immortal Holmes but also the magnificent antagonism of Moriarty, a villain brought to malevolent life by Welles’s voice.

Essential Quote to Experience Orson Welles as Holmes:

• “I share your regret, Professor.” (Holmes, 32:43)
• “Elementary, my dear Watson. The child’s play of deduction.” (Holmes, 10:12/56:44)

Essential Quote to Experience Orson Welles as Moriarty:

• “One or the other of us must die, must die, Mr. Holmes.” (Moriarty, 63:08)

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End of Summary

Transcript

[Sherlock Holmes]

Get this and get it straight. Crime is a sucker's road and those

[Narrator/Announcer]

who travel it wind up in the

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

gut of the prison of the grave.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Dr. John Watson]

The Adventures of Sam Spade Detective the

[Narrator/Announcer]

Adventures of the Saint Starring Vincent Price. Bob Bailey in the exciting adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Podcast Host]

Hello and welcome to a bonus episode of down these Mean Streets. This week we're celebrating the birthday of the great Orson Welles. The actor, writer, director and producer was born May 6, 1915 and while his name is probably most associated today with classic films, including one of the all time great Citizen Kane. Radio was a major part of Welles career. He thrilled audiences as the voice of the shadow and he infamously frightened them with the legendary broadcast of the War of the Worlds. He guest starred on comedies like Jack Benny and Charlie McCarthy and he starred in thrillers from suspense. Welles also recreated one of his celebrated film roles, the charming rogue Harry Lime of the Throne. Third man in a syndicated radio series. We could do a month's worth of Orson Welles radio performances, but for his birthday celebration I've picked two of my favorites. Both of them Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. First, Orson Welles is the great detective himself in a Mercury Theater adaptation of William Gillette's play the Immortal Sherlock Holmes. Originally aired on CBS on September 25, 1938, just about a month before Martians invaded New Jersey on the same program. And then he's the Napoleon of crime Holmes archenemy Professor Moriarty. In the Final Problem, Sherlock Holmes is played by John Gielgud and Dr. Watson is Ralph Richardson. In this episode of a syndicated Holmes series produced in a England by Harry Allen Towers. The same producer behind Welles series the Lives of Harry Lime. I'll be back on Sunday with our next regular episode. But for now let's head back to Baker street for a birthday celebration in honor of Orson Welles.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The mercury theater on the air. The Columbia Broadcasting System takes pleasure in bringing you the 12th in its series of weekly broadcasts featuring Orson Welles and the Mercury Theater on the air. Tonight Broadways and radio's most celebrated theatrical producing company brings to life the best loved character in detective fiction, the immortal Sherlock Holmes. The play is Orson Welles own adaptation for radio of William Gillette's enduring melodrama based on the famous stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Before the performance begins, here is the director of the Mercury Theatre, the star and producer of these unique broadcasts, Orson Welles.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good Evening. Well, tonight it's back to Baker street. Back to that unlikely London of the 19th century where high adventure awaits all who would seek it in a handsome cab or under a gas lamp in an infamous cape. For tonight we pay tribute to the most wonderful member of that most wonderful world. A gentleman who never lived and who will never die. There are only a few of them, these permanent profiles, everlasting silhouettes on the edge of the world. There is first, the little hunchback with a slapstick whose hooked nose is shaped like his cap. There is now and always will be the penguin footed hobo in the derby and the baggy pants. And the small boy with a wooden head. And the long rusty knight on horseback. And the fat knight who could only procure a charge on foot. There is also the tall gentleman with the hawk's face and the underslung pipe and the fore and aft cap. We'd know them anywhere and call them easily by name. Punch and the charlies, chaplain and McCarthy Quixote. Sir John and Sherlock Holmes. Now, irrelevant as this may seem, we of the Mercury Theater are very much occupied these days with rehearsals for a revival of a fine old American farce a lot of you will remember, if only for its lovely title, which is too much Johnson. Its author was William Gillette, which reminded us, as it reminds you, of Sherlock Holmes. As everybody knows, that celebrated American inventor of underacting lent his considerable gifts as a playwright to the indestructible legend of the Conan Doyle detective and produced the play, which is as much a part of the Holmes literature as any of Sir Arthur's own romances. And as nobody will ever forget, he gave his face to him. For William Gillette was the aquiline and actual embodiment of Holmes himself. It is too little to say that William Gillette resembled Sherlock Holmes. Sherlock Holmes looks exactly like William Gillette. Sounds like him, too. We're afraid, and hope devoutly that the Mercury Theater and the radio will take none of the glamour from the beloved fable of Baker street, from the pipe and the violin and the hideous purple dressing gown, from the needle and the cigar on the window ledge and the dry final famous lines. Elementary, my dear Watson, elementary. The mere child's play of deduction.

[Dr. John Watson]

My name is Watson. I am a doctor. It was in the year 1880 that Holmes and I were introduced by a mutual acquaintance. At the time, we were both looking for a lodging that would suit our moderate means. This we found on the second floor of a house at 221B Baker Street. And it was during the years that we occupied these chambers together that Holmes established his unique international reputation as a consulting detective. During that time I was privileged to be his daily companion and I have done my modest share in giving to the world an account of some of his most famous famous cases. Most famous of these are the ones of which I have written under the names of the Speckled Band, sign of Thor Howland of the Baskervilles and the Study in Scarlet. They represent, however, only a minute fraction of the 643 cases Holmes successfully solved during the years that we shared the lodgings in Baker Street. Other cases I hope one day to give to the world include the Tarleton Murders, the sudden death of Cardinal Tosca, the adventure of Ricoletti of the Club Foot and his Abominable Wife, the case of Mrs. Farintosh, the circus Belle and the case of the Royal Family of Scandinavia. Each illustrate in their own way the remarkable genius of my friend, Sherlock Holmes. Since my marriage three years ago, Holmes has continued to occupy the Baker street lodgings by himself. And here almost every afternoon when my work in the office is finished I'm in the habit of calling on him. The sitting room as you go in is exactly as it has been for the past 13 years. The worn bearskin rug, the huge sofa covered with faded chintz, the mantelpiece cluttered with miscellaneous objects unanswered letters and piles of loose tobacco. On one side of the fireplace, in a deep armchair his pipe curling forth slow wreaths of acrid tobacco draped in his hideous purple dressing gown sits Sherlock Holmes with his violin under his chin.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come in. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

My dear fellow, how are you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Holmes, I'm delighted to see you, perfectly delighted, upon my word, I am. But I'm sorry to observe that your wife has left you.

[Dr. John Watson]

She has gone on a little visit. But how did you know?

[Sherlock Holmes]

How did I? Well, I. Like that. How do I know anything? How do I know you've been getting yourself very wet lately? That you're an extremely careless servant girl and you've moved your dressing table to the other side of the room?

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, if you had lived a few centuries ago they'd have burned you alive.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Such a conflagration would have saved me a great deal of trouble and expense.

[Dr. John Watson]

Tell me, Ernale, how did you know all that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Too simple to talk about scratches and clumsy cuts, my dear fellow. On the inner side of your shoe there just where the firelight strikes its scratches, cuts. Somebody scraped away crusted mud and did it badly. Badly scraped a shoe along with it. There's Your wet foot, my dear Watson, and your careless servant girl. All on one shoe. Face badly shaved on the right side, always used to be on the left. Light must come from the other side. Couldn't very well move your window. Must move your dressing table of course.

[Dr. John Watson]

But how the deuce did you know my wife was away?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why the deuce is your second waistcoat button, Wasson. What the deuce is yesterday's button ear doing and today's the. And why the deuced you wear the expression of a Martha. Elementary, my dear fellow, elementary. The child's play of deduction. I'm only doing it for your amusement. Before we pass on to more serious matters.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, what is it now? Voam?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, my dear fellow, the enthusiasm which has prompted you to chronicle, and if you will excuse my saying so somewhat to embellish my little adventures, you occasionally seen fit to introduce a certain element of romance which struck me as being just a trifle out of place. Something like working an elopement into the fifth proposition of Euclid. I merely refer to this in case you should see fit at some future time to chronicle the case on which I am about to embark. The strange case of Professor Robert Moriarty.

[Dr. John Watson]

Moriarty? I don't remember ever having heard of the fellow.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, Watson, you haven't. It is precisely this quality of invisibility that makes of Professor Moriarty the Napoleon of crime. Sitting motionless like an ugly venomous spider in the center of his web. But that web having a thousand radiations and the spider knowing every quiver of every one of them. And within 48 hours I'll have the lines drawn so tightly around him that he can't move and arrest him and his entire gang.

[Dr. John Watson]

My Holmes. This is a very dangerous.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear fellow, it's perfectly delightful. My whole life is spent in a series of frantic endeavors to escape from the dreary commonplaces existence. For a brief period I escape. Congratulate me. The day before yesterday I received in this room the visit of a certain foreign nobleman who has recently inherited a very considerable title and who is about to be married. Seems that this titled gentleman was so indiscreet as to fall in love with a young English lady by the name of Faulkner, socially inferior and to make her a promise of marriage. Later, at his family's insistence, the thing was broken off and the young lady died shortly after with a broken heart, leaving behind a sister. Also considerable evidence in the form of letters, photographs and jewelry with inscriptions. These the sister kept. These together with the sister are now being held in a house in St. John's Wood by a pair of blackmailers who go by the name of Chetwood. So far as you see my dear Watson, a fairly ordinary case of blackmail hardly worth my attention. Last night on my inspection a certain element revealed itself which renders the case far more important than I'd expected. And that element was Professor Moyarte. Come in.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Beg pardon Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes Billy, what is it?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Gentleman to see you by the name of Foreman.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Show him in Billy. Show him in.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, Mr. Holmes. Come in Mr. Foreman.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening Foreman. Good evening Mr. Holmes. Watson, this is Inspector Foreman. Since the day before yesterday he occupies the position of butler under the name of Judson in the home of Mr. And Mrs. Chetwode, blackmailers of St. John's Wood. Well Foreman, any news?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This morning A little after 9, Chetwood and his wife drove away in a four wheeler. They returned about 11.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Bassett was with them.

[Dr. John Watson]

You know him though?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

When I last had the occasion to meet Mr. He got two years for safe cracking. Go on Foreman.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well they took this man Basak into the library. I got a look at him from

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

the outside and there he was opening up the safe where they'd been keeping the letters.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Go on.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

In the end when they got the safe open it was empty. The letters were gone.

[Dr. John Watson]

It seems like the Faulkner girl got them back somehow.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

That got them pretty excited.

[Dr. John Watson]

Bessek went out to send a telegram.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Have you got a copy of him? Yes, yes, here it is sir. It's in code. Moriarty. I thought so. Watson, this case is taking a most promising turn. Foreman, you return at once to the house at St John's Wood within 10 minutes I shall be there myself. If I remember correctly the kitchen is immediately below the drawing room.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

When I knock over a chair in the drawing room you'll overturn a lamp in the kitchen, scatter smoke balls and give an alarm of fire. All other instructions remain unchanged.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very good sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hurry foreman.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well my dear Watson begins to look like a most interesting evening.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

How?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Will you give me those letters?

[Dr. John Watson]

No I won't. I won't.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

No.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Will you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good evening. My name is Sherlock Holmes.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Whom did you wish to see, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh thank you so much Mr. Chetwood. I had myself announced by the butler on my way up.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I didn't. Oh very well.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, here he is.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, Judson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ms. Faulkner begs Mr. Holmes to excuse her. She is not well enough to see anyone that he. Will you please hand this card to Ms. Faulkner and say that I. I

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

beg your pardon Mr. Holmes, but it's quite useless really.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear it.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, Ms. Faulkner is, I regret to say, quite an invalid. She is unable to see anyone, her health is so poor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Has it ever occurred to you, Mr. Chetwode, that she might be confined to the house too much?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

How does that concern you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It doesn't. I simply make the suggestion. Might like to think it over. It's your butter's name.

[Dr. John Watson]

Judson, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very well, Judson. Go on, take my card up.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very good, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Well this is really too good. Why of course he can take up your card or your note or whatever it is if you wish it so much. I was only trying to save you the trouble.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thanks. It's hardly any trouble at all, Senator KERN.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You know, Mr. Holmes, you interest me very much.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh really?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Upon my word, yes. We've all heard of your wonderful methods. The astonishing manner in which you gain information from the most trifling details. Now I dare say in this brief moment or two you've discovered any number of things about me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nothing of consequence, Mr. Chetwode. I hardly more than ask myself why you were so distressed to see me at this particular moment. And what there can possibly be about the safe in the lower part of that desk to cause you such painful anxiety.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Very good, very good indeed. If those things were only true now, I'd be wonderfully impressed. It would be absolutely remarkable.

[Dr. John Watson]

Excuse me, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Judson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A message for you, Mr. Chetwood.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You'll excuse me. I trust it's from Ms. Faulkner. Well really, she begs to be allowed to see you, Mr. Holmes. She absolutely implores it. Well, I suppose I shall have to give way. Judson, ask Ms. Faulkner to come down to the drawing room. Say that Mr. Holmes is waiting to see her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very good, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Quite remarkable upon my soul. May I ask, if it's not an impertinent question, what message you sent up that could so have aroused Ms. Faulkner's desire to come down?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Merely if she wasn't down here in five minutes I'd go up.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Oh, that was it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so. And unless I'm greatly mistaken, I hear the young lady on the stairs. Which case she has a minute and a half to spare.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Alice, that is. Ms. Faulkner, let me introduce Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Mr. Holmes. Ah, Ms. Falkner, I'm really most charmed to meet you. Although it does look as if you'd made me come down in spite of myself, doesn't it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I thank you very much indeed for consenting to see me, Ms. Faulkner, but regret to observe that you were put to the trouble of making such a very rapid change of dress.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Oh yes, I did hurry a trifle, I confess. Mr. Holmes is quite living up to his reputation, isn't he, Freddy? Come in.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, ma'. Am.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

What are you doing here, Judson?

[Dr. John Watson]

I beg pardon, ma'.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Am.

[Dr. John Watson]

I was answering the bell. What bell? The drawing room bell, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What do you mean, you blockhead? No one rang the bell.

[Dr. John Watson]

I'm quite sure it was wrong, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Well, I tell you it did not ring.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your Butler is right, Mr. Chatworp. The bell did ring. How do you know I rang it?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What do you want?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I want to send my card to the real Miss Faulkner.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

The real.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I said the real Miss Faulkner. Judson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Holmes, what right have you to ring for servants and give orders in my house?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What right have you to prevent my cards from reaching their destination? How does it happen that you and this woman are resorting to trickery and deceit to prevent me from seeing Alice Faulkner? Through some trifling oversight, Judson, neither of the cards I handed to him has been delivered. Kindly see that this error does not occur again. My orders, sir. You have orders?

[Dr. John Watson]

I can't say, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You were told not to deliver my card.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What business is it of yours, I'd like to know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I shall satisfy your curiosity on that point in a very short time, Mr. Chetwood.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, and you'll find out in a very short time that it isn't safe to meddle with me. It wouldn't be any trouble at all for me to throw you out into the street.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Possibly not, but trouble would swiftly follow such an experiment on your part.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

It's a cursed lucky thing for you I'm not armed.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, well, when Ms. Faulkner comes down, you go and arm yourself.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Arm myself? I'll call the police. What's more, I'll do it now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh no, you will not do it now. You will remain where you are until the lady I came here to see has entered this room.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What makes you so sure of that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because you will prefer to avoid an investigation of your suspicious conduct, Mr. James Larrabee.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Larrabe.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That is the name under which you are known to Scotland yard, I believe. Mr. Chetwode, this lady here is your wife. Stew Judson. You will either deliver that card, Ms. Faulkner, at once or sleep in the police station tonight. That's of small consequence to me. Would you do.

[Dr. John Watson]

Shall I. Shall I go, sir?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Go on, take up the card. It makes no difference to me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A short time since Larrabee, you displayed an acute anxiety to leave the room Pray do not let me detain you or your wife any longer. Take it you prefer to remain while I talk to Ms. Faulkner?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

We do, Mr. Holmes.

[Professor Moriarty]

Ah, flash.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Ms. Faulkner is there, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

You wish to see me?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very much indeed, Ms. Faulkner, but I'm sorry to see that you are far from well.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Oh, no, I.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No. Beg your pardon. What does this mark mean?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Oh, nothing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nothing?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

No.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And the mark here on your neck? Plainly showing the clutch of a man's fingers. Does that mean nothing also? It occurs to me that I should like to have an explanation of this. Possibly you can furnish one, Mr. Larrabet.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

How should I know?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It seems to have occurred in your own house.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What if it did? You'd better understand that it isn't healthy for you or anyone else to interfere with my business.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, that is your business. May that much at least. Pray Be seated, Ms. Falkner.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I don't know who you are, Mr. Holmes, or why you are here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I shall be very glad indeed to explain. My business is this. I have been consulted as to the possibility of obtaining from you certain letters addressed to your sister which are supposed to be in your possession.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I cannot give up my sister's letters, Mr. Holmes. There are other things beside revenge. There is punishment.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Believe me, Ms. Falkner, there is nothing more to say.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Good night, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But. My dear Ms. Faulkner. Oh, I'm so sorry. How clumsy of me to turn over this chair.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Fire. Fire.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What's that?

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

What's that? What's going on in your house?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

The lamp. Stone lamp. The lamp at the kitchen, sir.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

It fell off the table and everything down there is blazing.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Quick, sir, come down.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

We're coming.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't alarm yourself, Ms. Faulkner. There is no fire.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

No fire?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The smoke was all arranged for.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Arranged for? What does it mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes means this, Ms. Faulkner means that I wanted a package of letters, Ms. Faulkner. And that by following your eyes just now when you thought there was a fire, I discovered that you'd hidden them in the upholstery of this chair. Quite elementary, as you seem. And now that they're in my possession, there seems to be no reason for me to remain any longer in this house. Good night, Ms. Faulkner. Miss Faulkner.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I. I can't take them. Ms. Falkner. These letters belong to you. I find that I cannot keep them unless you can possibly change your mind and let me have them of your own free will. Hardly suppose you could. I will therefore return them to you. And. Oh, there's our friend Mr. Larrabee returning from the fire.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

So you've got the letters, have you? Now, I suppose we're going to see you walk out of the house with them.

[Sherlock Holmes]

On the contrary, you're going to see me return them to their rightful owner. Ms. Faulkner, here are your letters. Should you ever change your mind and be so generous, so forgiving, as to wish to return these letters to the one who wrote them, you have my address. In any event, rest assured there will be no more cruelty, no more persecution in this house.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Thank you, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You are perfectly safe with your property, Ms. Faulkner, for I shall so arrange it that your faintest cry of distress will be heard. If that cry is heard, it will be very unfortunate for those who are responsible. As for you, Mr. Larrabee, and you, Madame, I beg you to understand that you continue your persecution of that young lady at your peril. Good night,

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Miss Faulkner. Come here, Miss Faulkner. Now, are you going to give me those letters?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

No, never.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Are you going to give me those letters?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Now then, Be careful, Jim.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You shut up. Now then, Ms. Faulkner, do you give me those letters or do I break your arm? What's that? Someone knocked on the door. No, it was on that side. Did you call, Madam?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I think some are not Judson.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I'll see madam. I beg pardon, madam, but there's no one at the door.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Very well, you may go.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

He's got us watched. What we want to do is to leave it alone. Let the Emperor have it.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Do you mean Professor Moriarty?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

That's who I mean. Once let him get at it, he'll settle it with Holmes pretty quick. Don't you worry a minute. I tell you, Professor Morialty will get at him before noon tomorrow night. He won't wait long either. And when he strikes, it means death.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Number 823 71.

[Professor Moriarty]

Correct.

[Dr. John Watson]

Moriarty speaking.

[Professor Moriarty]

Ben Basick. Any report from him? Manning. The whole thing was a trap set and baited by an expert. Manning. Manning's disappeared. Disappeared? Sherlock Holmes again. And now this Vladibri job. He's in on that too. That's where he's made his mistake. Mr. Holmes is playing rather a dangerous game, Basak. Inspector Wilson tried it seven years ago. Wilson is dead two years later. Henderson took it up. We haven't heard anything of Henderson lately, eh?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not a thing, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

You'll see about that. Ms. Holmes is rather a talented man. He doesn't realize there isn't a street in London that'll be safe for him. If I whisper his name named Craig, I might even make him a little call myself. Just for the satisfaction of it just for the satisfaction of it. Baker street, isn't it? This place.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Baker street, eh?

[Professor Moriarty]

Baker street, sir. We could make it safe. We could make it absolutely safe for three streets in every direction. Yes, we could. He'd done it over and over again elsewhere. Police decoyed men in every doorway. Do this tonight in Baker Street, 9 o'.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Clock.

[Professor Moriarty]

Call his attendants out on one pretext or another and keep them out. You understand? I'll see this Sherlock Holmes myself. I'll give him a chance for his life. Massacre.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

Notify the lascar that I may require the gas chamber at Stepney tomorrow night. And have Craig in there at a quarter before 10 with his crew. Tell Larraby I shall want him to write a letter to Mr. Sherlock Holmes which I shall dictate. Meet me here at 7 basic. Place your men at 9 tonight for Sherlock Holmes house in Baker Street. You still go there yourself, sir? I will still go there myself at

[Sherlock Holmes]

this meeting tomorrow night, sir, to get

[Professor Moriarty]

him in the gas chamber. If I fail to kill him in Baker street, we'll have him in Swandle Main. Either way I have him. Bassett. Two strings to our bow. Two strings, eh, Bassett?

[Dr. John Watson]

That evening Holmes and I dined together at Scott's in Piccadilly Circus. After dinner we went to a concert at Queen's Hall. I can still see him on this particular night of the Moriarty case, well knowing that his life was in peril, sitting beside me in the stalls, wrapped in the most perfect happiness, listening to Sarasati play the violin, gently waving his long thin fingers in time to the music. When it was over he rose, put on his long coat and started with long steps in the direction of the street.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come, my dear Watson, let's go on to Baker Street. I have an idea that very soon we shall be receiving a most interesting visit.

[Dr. John Watson]

In front of Queen's hall we hailed a hansom and as we came down Baker street we could see that the light was burning. On the second floor of 221B. We went up the dark narrow stairs.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Mr. Holmes?

[Dr. John Watson]

The boy Billy was waiting for him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Holmes. What is that?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Mrs. Hudson's compliment, sir. And she wants to know if she can see you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Where is Mrs. Hudson?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Downstairs in the kitchen, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My compliments. And I don't think she can where she is.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

She'll be very sorry, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Our regret will be mutual.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

It was most terrible important, sir, being

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

as she wants to know what you'll

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

have for breakfast in the morning.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The same.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Same as when, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

This morning.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

But you didn't have nothing, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You wasn't here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I won't be here tomorrow.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir. Was that all, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Thank you, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Mr. Holmes?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Here's a letter for you, sir, on the table, delivered 10 minutes ago.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Read it, Watson, there's a good fellow. I put on my dressing gown. Yes?

[Professor Moriarty]

Dear Sir, Who?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Vast addresses, men.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Why?

[Dr. John Watson]

James Larrabee.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And what has James to say this evening?

[Professor Moriarty]

Dear Sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I hope he won't say that again.

[Dr. John Watson]

I have the honor to inform you that Ms. Faulkner has changed her mind regarding the letters, et cetera, which you wish to obtain and has decided to dispose of them for a monetary consideration. If you wish to negotiate, will you be at 9 o' clock at the Guards Monument at the foot of Waterloo Place?

[Professor Moriarty]

You will see a four wheeler with

[Dr. John Watson]

wooden shutters to the windows. If you have the cab followed or try any other underhand trick, you won't get what you want. Let me know your decisions.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yours truly, James Larrabee.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mine truly. Well, later perhaps.

[Dr. John Watson]

What does the fellow mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Fellow means to sell me a base imitation for a large sum of money of certain letters that he does not possess. I shall probably buy them from him now. See if I have the points. Tonight, 11 o', clock, guards Monument. Cab with wooden shutters. No one to come with me, no one to follow, or I don't get what I want.

[Dr. John Watson]

Quite right. But this cab with the wooden shutters.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Merely a little device to keep me from seeing where they're taking me. Billy.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Give this to the man.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Who's the woman, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah. Young or old?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Look quite young, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Handsome four wheeler, sir. Seen the driver before?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir, but I can't think where.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hand this to the lady, apologize for delay and look at the driver again.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

But my dear Holmes, you didn't say you would go.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But I certainly did.

[Dr. John Watson]

This fellow means mischief.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This fellow means the same.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I beg pardon, sir. A message come over from the chemist on the corner to say a man

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

has been hit by a bus, looks

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

like his legs broke, and would Dr. Watson kindly step over and help till the ambulance?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, you certainly are going. I'll be back in a minute, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Billy.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Who brought that message? Boy from the chemist's course. But which boy?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Must have been a new one, sir. I ain't seen him before.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Billy, get downstairs quickly. Look after the doctor. The boy's gone. There's a man with him. It means mischief. Let me know. Don't stop to come up. Ring the doorbell.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I'll hear it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ring it loud.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir,

[Professor Moriarty]

It's a dangerous habit, Mr. Holmes, to finger loaded firearms in the pocket of one's dressing gown.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I give you my word, Professor Moriarty. You'll be taken from here to the hospital if you keep your hand behind you. Like that. That's better. In that case, please put your revolver on the table.

[Professor Moriarty]

You evidently don't know me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I think it's quite evident that I do. Pray have a chair, Professor. I can spare you five minutes. That is if you have anything to say. Careful. What are you about to do, Professor Moriarty?

[Professor Moriarty]

Look at my watch.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll tell you when your five minutes is up.

[Professor Moriarty]

It is your intention to pursue this case against me?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That is my intention to the very end.

[Professor Moriarty]

I regret this.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I share your regret, Professor.

[Professor Moriarty]

But do you think that I would be here if I hadn't made the streets quite safe?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In every respect I could never so grossly overestimate your courage as that, Professor Moyarti.

[Professor Moriarty]

You imagine that your friend the doctor and your boy Billy will soon return.

[Dr. John Watson]

What?

[Professor Moriarty]

So it leaves us quite alone, doesn't it, sir? Quite alone. So that we can talk to Mess Rover Quietly, Mr. Holmes, and not be disturbed. In the first place, I wish to call your attention to a few memoranda which I've jotted down and which you will find

[Sherlock Holmes]

there. They are forgot. Don't do that. Trans.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Down.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Quickly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Go farther away from that memorandum book you're talking about.

[Professor Moriarty]

Barely out to take out a small notebook.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, merely don't do it. I don't want it. Got one of my own. If you want it, we'll have someone get it for you. I always like to save my guests unnecessary trouble.

[Professor Moriarty]

I observe that your boy doesn't answer the bell.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, but I have an idea that he will before long.

[Professor Moriarty]

It may possibly be longer than you think, mister.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What,

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

that boy?

[Professor Moriarty]

Yes, that boy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

At least we'll try the bill once more, Professor.

[Professor Moriarty]

Doesn't it occur to you that he may possibly have been detained, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It does, Professor. But it also occurs to me that you're in very much the same predicament, Professor Moriarty.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I beg pardon, sir. Someone tried to hold me, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's quite evident, however, that he failed to do so.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

He's got my coat, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

But he ain't got me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Billy.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Billy the gentleman I'm carefully pointing out to you with this 45 desires to have us gather something of his left hand inside coat pocket. He's not feeling quite himself today. And the consequence of his trying to do it himself might prove fatal. I suggest you attend to it for him.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Is this it, sir? This gun?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so. I'll put it on the table. Not there, Billy. On this table where I can reach it. More like it. That's all, Billy.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Shall I see if he's got another, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why, Billy, you surprise me. If the gentleman's taken the trouble to inform us that he hasn't.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

When, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

When he made a snatch for this one. And now, professor, now that we have your little memorandum book, do you think of anything else you'd like before Billy goes? Any little thing you've got that you don't want. So sorry. It's all Billy.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Thank you, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

Listen, Holmes to me. On the 4th of January you crossed my path. On the 23rd you incommoded me. Now, at the close of April, I find myself placed in such a position through your continual interference that I'm in positive danger of losing my liberty. Have you any suggestions to make? No, I have no suggestions to make. I have a fact to state. If you don't drop it at once, your life's not worth that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid, professor, that in the pleasure of this conversation I am neglecting more important business. If you'll excuse me a moment while I get my pipe off the mantelpiece here.

[Professor Moriarty]

I came here this evening, Mr. Holmes, to see if peace could not be arranged between us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so, quite so.

[Professor Moriarty]

You've seen fit not only to reject my proposals but to make insulting references coupled with threats of arrest. You've been warned of your danger. You don't heed that warning, perhaps you'll heed this.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Pull your hands, Mr. Holmes. Up with the miracle.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Didn't imagine I'd leave that gun loaded, did you? Professor Moyarte? Here are your cartridges. I didn't suppose you'd want to use that gun again, so I took them out while you were talking. Put them in my pocket. You'll find them all there, Professor. Billy.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You please show Professor Moriarty at the door.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir. This way, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

Don't ever say I didn't warn you, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, Mr. Morte. No, I never will. Billy, come here.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Billy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Billy, you're a good boy.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You are listening to the Columbia Broadcasting System's presentation of Orson Welles and the Mercury Theatre on the air in Sherlock Holmes with Orson Welles in the title role and Ray Collins as Dr. Watt. We pause a moment for station identification. This is the Columbia Broadcasting System. We continue now with this CBS presentation of Sherlock Holmes, played by Orson Welles and the Mercury Theater on the air.

[Dr. John Watson]

It was exactly 9 o' clock when Sherlock Holmes left the house in Baker Street. He had given the strictest instructions that no one was to follow him. If there had been no word from him by noon of the following day, we must notify Scotland Yard. I went to the window and looked after him as he went down Baker Street. A tall, thin figure in a gray ulster, walking with long, smooth steps in the direction of Langham Place. There he entered a cab.

[Professor Moriarty]

Yeah.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What are you doing? Light Majesty, that's what I'm doing.

[Dr. John Watson]

Chuck it. Why should I chuck it?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

There might be.

[Dr. John Watson]

There ain't no gas.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

It's been four days since we had

[Dr. John Watson]

gas in the room and I still

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

say there might be gas.

[Dr. John Watson]

Did you check it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I will.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Here goes. Freddie, give her a turn and that'll do. Turn her off.

[Dr. John Watson]

Five minutes of that, all your troubles are ended. Here.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

What's that?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Basic?

[Professor Moriarty]

That's right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Craigen the Julietta.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Here, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

McCabe.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Here, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

Be careful now, you boys. You've got a ton one tonight.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

We instead. Who?

[Dr. John Watson]

As I've heard, Sherlock Holmes.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You mean that, sir? God's truth. Is going to count him out.

[Professor Moriarty]

Well, if you don't and he gets away, I'm sorry for you, that's all. The Governor's here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not the Governor himself.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Professor Moriarty. Shut up. Yes, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

Got your full groove?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

All your, Sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

No mistakes tonight, Cregan.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, be careful of that, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

This is Larrabee.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hello.

[Professor Moriarty]

He's in on this job.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Hello, Larrabee.

[Dr. John Watson]

What's that door? Basic?

[Professor Moriarty]

A small cabin, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No outlet?

[Professor Moriarty]

None whatever, sir. Head window, nail down, sir. The man may break the glass. If he did, he'd come up against

[Dr. John Watson]

the heavy iron bars outside.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

We'll have him tied down before he can break any glass, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

You've used it before, eh?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Of course.

[Professor Moriarty]

You know it's airtight. Every crevice is sealed, sir. When the men have turned the gas on him, they leave by this door.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

We made right. Secure.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Heavy bolts on the outside, sir. Solid oak bars, overall.

[Professor Moriarty]

You see how quick you can operate them?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

They tie a man down, sir. There's no need to hurry, please.

[Professor Moriarty]

See how quick you can operate them, Leary.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

That's good. Open it up. Now, Cregan and the rest of you, one thing remembered. Whatever happens, no shooting tonight. Not a single shot can be heard in the alley below. First thing is to get his revolver away before he has a chance to use it. Two of you attract his attention in front. The other come up on him from behind and snake it out of his pocket. Then you have him arrange that, Cregan.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll attend to it, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

Still Letterby, you understand? They wait for you.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I understand, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

They give you this opportunity to sell him the packet of letters you forged and get what you envy of trouble. Few hundred pounds. Doesn't interest me, Mr. Laraby. What I tell you is Holmes.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I understand, sir.

[Professor Moriarty]

When you finished and got your money you whistle and these gentlemen come in and hear it. You hear that Cregan? That's right. And Cregan, the proper moment. Present my compliments, Mr. Sherlock Holmes and say that I wished him a pleasant journey to the the other side. Come on Basic. Good night gentlemen.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good night.

[Professor Moriarty]

Good night.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Barra B Good light, sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

All right boys, clear. When you hear the whistle in you come. Right you are, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Larry?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes sir.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You get down on the corner below. Let me know when he comes. I only let you know. Well when you see him driving up, come down the alley and whistle three times.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very good, sir.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Here, watch this. How did you get in? What are you doing there in the passage?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Hey, what is it Lynn?

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

A woman here in the passage.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Bring her in.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Come on you. Come on.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Oh, it's you Ms. Fauqu.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

It's true then.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

How did you get to this place?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I followed you in a cab.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What have you been doing since I came up here? Informing the police perhaps?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

No, I was afraid he'd come so I waited.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

To warn him I suppose? No.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

To warn him? Yes. You're going to swindle and deceive him, sell him a packet of false letters. I know that. What else are you going to do to him?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Wouldn't you like to know?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Where are those men who came up?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What men?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Three terrible looking men. I saw them go in at the street door.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You don't mean these men, do you Miss Faulkner?

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Tire up boys, you can't make a noise.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Here you are.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Tire up.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Listen.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

That's him. There he is. Now what, Holmes? That's him. That's the signal. He won't have time to get her out. Shut her in there in the cupboard.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yeah, that'll do.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

In with her, into the cupboard.

[Dr. John Watson]

Hey, there ain't no lock to this here cupboard.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You're about to drive something in there.

[Dr. John Watson]

Here, this knife, this will do it.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

That'll hold her.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Now quick, quick.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Good evening, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, Mr. Larraby. Already? I certainly thought after all this driving about in a crow's cab you'd show me something new.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Seen it before, have you Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh well, a time or Two now, to come to think of it. I nabbed a friend of yours, Ms. Price, while he was trying to drop himself out of the window. Ed Colvin, the cracksman Colvin?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Colvin. Never heard of him before.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, you certainly never heard of him after sure of that. Brace of counterfeiters used these luxurious chambers. In the spring of 89, one of them hid in that cupboard. We pulled him out with heels.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Quite interesting. But times have changed since then.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So they have, Mr. Larrabee. So they have. Then it was only cracksmen, counterfeiters, pickpockets and petty swinders. Various kinds. But now. Well.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What now?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, between you and me, Mr. Larrabee, we've heard some not altogether agreeable rumors. Room is some pretty shady work not far from here. Murder to a very peculiar kind. I've always had a suspicion that's it. My surmise was correct.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

It is.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

It is what?

[Sherlock Holmes]

This room is corked, sealed.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What does that signify to us?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nothing to us, Mr. Larrabee, nothing to us. But it might signify a good deal to some poor devil who's been caught and gassed in this trap.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Well, if it's nothing to us, suppose we leave it alone and get to business. My time is limited.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yeah, of course. I should have realized that these reflections could not possibly appeal to you.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Smoke?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Have a cigar, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, thanks. Good cigar, this, Mr. Larabert. A genuine Havana.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Glad you like it. Now, here is the little packet of letters which is the object of this meeting. I haven't opened it yet, but Ms. Faulkner tells me everything is there.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I suppose, Mr. Larraby, that as Miss Faulkner knows nothing about this affair, we omit her name from the discussion.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What do you mean?

[Dr. John Watson]

Who told you?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

She doesn't know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You did. Every look, tone, gesture, everything you said and done since I've been in this room has informed me that Miss Faulkner has never consented to this transaction. It is a little speculation of your own.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Oh, I suppose you think you can read me like a book.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, no, no. Like a primmer.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Well, let it pass. How much will you give?

[Sherlock Holmes]

£1000.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I couldn't take it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you ask?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

5000.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I couldn't give it.

[Professor Moriarty]

Why?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I've been offered 4000 for this little thing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why didn't you take it?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Because I intended to get more.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, that's too bad.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

They offered 4,000, they'll give five.

[Sherlock Holmes]

They won't give anything.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Why not?

[Sherlock Holmes]

They've turned the case over to me.

[Dr. John Watson]

Will you give 3,000, Mr. Larraby?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Strange as it may appear, My time is limited as well as yours. I have brought with me the sum of £1,000, which is all that I wish to pay. If it is your desire to sell at this figure, kindly appraise me of the fact at once. If not, permit me to wish you a very good evening.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Well, you can have it. It's too small a matter to haggle over. Give me the money.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Certainly.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I thought you said you'd only brought just a thousand.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I did. This is it.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You brought a trifle more, I said.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so. I didn't say I hadn't brought any more.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You can do your little tricks when it comes to it, can't you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It depends on who I'm dealing with.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yeah, you give me that money.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Come on, quick. Hand it over.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now I've got you where I want you. James Larrabee, you've been so cunning and so cautious and so wise. We couldn't find a thing to hold you for. But this little slip will get you in for robbery.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

You'll help me in, will you? What are your views about being able to get away from here yourself?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I do not anticipate any particular difficulty.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Robbery, eh? Why, even if you got away from here, you haven't got a witness. You haven't got a witness to your name.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm not so sure of that, Mr. Larabert. Not so sure of that. You usually fasten this cupboard door with a knife.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Come away from that door, Faulkner.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Stand back. Contemptible scoundrel.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What does this mean?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I'll show you what it means.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Crack it quick.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm afraid you're badly hurt, Ms. Faulkner, Mr. Holmes.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Look forward to you, James.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Pull in there, boy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll have to ask you gentlemen to wait. Just one moment, please.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Here.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

What's the idea of sitting down and writing?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

What are you writing? Writing your will, I suppose.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

No, no.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Only a brief description of one or two of your. Gentlemen, the police.

[Dr. John Watson]

Wait a bit. You better listen to me, Mr. Holmes.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

We're going to tie you down nice and tight to the top of that table.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why, you surprise me, gentlemen, thinking you're so sure of anybody in this room and three bars going out of that window.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Bars or no bars, you're not going to get out of here as easy as you expect.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There are so many ways, Mr. Larrabee, that I hardly know which one to choose.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Well, you better choose quick, I can tell you that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll choose at once, Mr. Craigen. And my choice falls on this chair. Hang on.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Well, I can get away in the desert. Watch out.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Hang On. Look at this cigar dragging by the cigar. Watch his cigar. Look out, he's going through the window. He's up on the ledge.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

He's climbed up.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Look at his cigar.

[Dr. John Watson]

Get him.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Quick after him. There he goes. He's out by the window.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No gentlemen, no, not by the window. I'm leaving by the door. By the way, I left my cigar for you on the windowsill. Good evening, gentlemen.

[Dr. John Watson]

There was no news of Holmes that night and Billy reported next morning that he had not breakfasted at home. I had a busy morning at my office in Harley Street.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It was after 11 before the last

[Dr. John Watson]

of my appointments was over and still no news of Holmes.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Did you ring Dr. Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh Parsons, is there anyone waiting? I have to be in Baker street at noon.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There's one person in the waiting room,

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Doctor, a lady, sir, and she wants

[Sherlock Holmes]

to see you most particular.

[Dr. John Watson]

Hey, what about?

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

She didn't say, sir, only she said it was utmost importance to her if you'd see her, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh very well, I'll see her. And call a cab for me at the time same and have it wait. Show the lady in.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Yes sir. This way ma', am, this way.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Ah, Doctor, it's awfully good of you to see me. I'm Mrs. H. DeWitt Seton. Dear me, I didn't bring my card case. If I did I've lost it.

[Dr. John Watson]

Don't trouble about a card, Mrs. Seaton.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

They said you were Mr. Holmes friend. Several people told me that. There's several. They advised me to ask you where I could find him today, this morning. And everything depends on it Doctor, everything.

[Dr. John Watson]

I'd go to Mr. Holmes at once but I've been.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

I've been and he wasn't there.

[Dr. John Watson]

You went to Mr. Holmes house?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, in Baker Street. That's why I came to you. They said he might be here.

[Dr. John Watson]

No, he isn't here.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

But don't you expect him this morning?

[Dr. John Watson]

No, there's no possibility of Mr. Holmes coming as far as I know.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

But couldn't you get him to come? It would be such a great favor to me. I'm almost worn out with going about and with this dreadful anxiety. If you could get word to Mr. Holmes to come.

[Dr. John Watson]

I could not get him to come, madam, and I beg you to excuse me, I'm going out myself on urgent business. I have no idea where Mr. Holmes could be.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

I. What's that?

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Puzzles. It sounded like a accident, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

Probably nothing more than a broken down hansom.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

See what it is.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

But that's the bell, sir. Somebody's out sir. And they're wanting you.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, don't allow anybody to come in. I have no more time.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Very well, sir.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

But they're coming in. Doctor, let the old man come in

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

here to bring him in. There ain't nowhere else for him to go. Kind of a doctor drop his business and he can't come in when he's hurt. The doctors can't see anybody. He's got to come in. We can't leave Matt in the street, can we?

[Dr. John Watson]

All right, help him in, Parker.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Oh Doctor, isn't it frightful? Can I be of some use?

[Dr. John Watson]

None whatever, none whatever.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

But Doctor, I must see the poor fellow.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Oh, my leg, my leg. Right this way, sir. Be careful of the sue, sir. That's it.

[Dr. John Watson]

It's a hexident.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

He can't help a hexaden. Oh you can't, that's plain enough. He was on the wrong side of the street. He was. And now over to this chair. No, no, I'll sit here. No, no, no, this is the chair, sir. Don't you suppose I know where I want to sit down? You'll sit down here. That isn't the doctor. The do have a look at you. Here's the doctor that isn't a doctor. Yes it is a doctor. Here, Doctor. Just come and have a look at

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

this old bloke, will you?

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

He's hurt himself a little then. Are you a cabman? Yes, I'm the cabman. Well, I'll have you arrested for this. Arrested. Arrested. Arrested.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Arrested.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

You can't arrest me. No I can't but somebody else can. Where's my hat? Where's my hat? My hat, my hat. Never mind your hat. I will mind my hat and I'll hold you responsible. There's your hat and your hand. Go on, sit down. That isn't my hat. Here you're responsible. I'll have you arrested. Here, come back. I'll go and stick around here. You know I gotta go to 10 millimetre. Bring your horse in here. I want to speak to him. I conspiracy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I won't stay in this place If

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

I ever get out of here alive. Now what are you staring at me for?

[Dr. John Watson]

Lady Parsons, tell that cab to wait for me. I must see if he's badly hurt.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Yes, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

Now my friend, if you sit quiet, quiet for one moment I'll have a look at you. Well stay still, will you? Well, how can I?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Remarkable. Remarkable weather we're having, eh, Doctor?

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, what on earth?

[Sherlock Holmes]

How about helping me remove some of this ridiculous disguise? Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, is that you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so My dear fellow. Quite so.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, Watson. Only get out that window.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Look out the blind. What do you want me to do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nothing. Already been done by Mrs. Larrabee here.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Look out, Holmes. She can get out that way.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I don't think so, Watson. Foreman.

[Dr. John Watson]

I've got her, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good work, foreman. Now take this lady in charge. Yes, sir. Very good, Foreman. Wait for me outside.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, Watson, my dear fellow, I regret to say that up to the present time Professor Moriarty himself has not risen to the bait.

[Dr. John Watson]

Where do you think he is?

[Sherlock Holmes]

In the open streets under some clever disguise, watching for a chance to get at me.

[Dr. John Watson]

And was this woman sent in here?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite so, quite so. A spy, to let them know by some signal if she found me in the house. Now they know. Pull down that blind, Watson. I don't care to be shot at from the street. I imagine we shall hear from Professor Moyarty very soon now.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Mr. Holmes. Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What did I tell you?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

He's come, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

From where?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

The house across the street. He was in there watching these windows. He must have seen something, for he's just come out. There was a cab wagon in front of this house, sir, and he's climbed up and changed places with the driver.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Get out again quick, Billy, and keep your eye on him.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson, let me have a rather heavy portmanteau for a few moments. I won't do it any harm.

[Dr. John Watson]

Parsons, my large Gladstone over there in the corner. Bring it here, please.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Yes, sir. Here you are, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Here's the portmanteau. Thank you, Parsons. Put it down there. Thank you so much. Parsons, you wanted a cab for the doctor a short time ago. It's been waiting, I believe.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Yes, sir, I think it has, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Be so good as to tell the driver to come in here and get a valise when he comes. Tell him that's the one.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Very good, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear Watson, times like these you should tell your man never to take the first cab that comes on call, nor yet the second. The third may be safe.

[Dr. John Watson]

But Holmes.

[Professor Moriarty]

All right.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

I'm Camin. I'm Kevin. It is cabbie. Right.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Right.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

In this way.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, this bag I want taken down.

[Professor Moriarty]

Aren't you, Governor?

[Sherlock Holmes]

All right. Goodbye, Watson. Bye, Watson, old fella. Wait a minute, driver. Pretty heavy, I'm afraid. Let me help you, Watson. I'll write to you from Budapest. Yes, yeah, but here, driver, let me tighten up these straps a bit.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

There we are.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's right. I'll hold it, driver. You, you pull the a few little things in this bag that I wouldn't like to lose.

[Professor Moriarty]

Won't you, Marcy?

[Sherlock Holmes]

And it's just as well to make quite sure, is it not, Professor Moriarty? By means of a simple pair of handcuffs.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Blast you, Holmes.

[Professor Moriarty]

Do you imagine, Sherlock Holmes, that this is the end?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I ventured to dream that it might be.

[Professor Moriarty]

Are you quite sure the police will

[Sherlock Holmes]

be able to hold me, Professor Moyarti? I'm quite sure of nothing. Take him away, foreman. And so, my dear Watson, ends the strange case of Miss Alice Faulkner.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, what about the letters?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, the letters. They were returned to their rightful owner over an hour ago. I suspected from the start that Ms. Faulkner was really a nice girl at heart. Ah, dear.

[Dr. John Watson]

What is it, Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I was just reflecting, my dear Watson. With Moriarty out of the way London from the point of view of the criminal expert, it's likely to become a singularly uninteresting city. One's morning paper veritable wilderness of boredom.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Mr. Holmes. Mr. Holmes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, Billy?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

There's a lady, sir, been waiting for an hour. Says she's got to see you, sir.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Case of murder.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

She says she's got a face veil,

[Sherlock Holmes]

from which I deduce that she is a lady of over 41 and less than 45, of a strange dark beauty and considerable social eminence. That she has lived for some years in the Near East. That she is now wearing a large blood ruby on the second finger of her left hand.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, how do you know these things? It's amazing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Elementary, my dear Watson, Elementary. The child's play of deduction.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Again tonight, the Columbia Broadcasting System through its affiliated stations coast to coast, has brought you Orson Welles and the Mercury

[Sherlock Holmes]

Theatre on the air.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The 12th production in this unique series featuring Broadway's and radio's most celebrated theatrical producing company. This evening the play was Orson Welles own adaptation of William Gillette. Sherlock Holmes in the cast, Dr. Watson played by Ray Collins, Alice Faulkner by Mary Taylor, Mads Larrabee by Brenda Forbes, James Larrabee by Edgar Barrier, Inspector Foreman by Morgan Farley, Craigen by Richard Wilson, Racik by Alfred Shirley, Larry by William Allen, Billy by Arthur Anderson, Professor Moriarty by Eustace Wyatt and Sherlock Holmes by Orson Welles. The orchestra was conducted by Bernard Herman and the production was supervised for CBS by Davidson Taylor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your announcer is Frank Gall.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Next Sunday evening at the same time, another classic narrative dramatized by Orson Welles. Join us then for Charles Dickens. Oliver Twist brought to life by the Mercury Theater. On the air, Colombia continues its extensive coverage of the European crisis. At this time we present A brief summary of the latest developments of the day on the European continent as brought to us by the Press Radio Bureau. No more concessions to Adolf Hitler. That is the understanding which has flashed through the nations of Europe tonight. Following the meeting of the British and French government heads and a further meeting of the British Cabinet. The United Press learns on high authority that the French and British conferees have agreed not to ask Czechoslovakia to go further than the original French British proposal which was adopted one week ago tonight. In the meantime, according to reliable reports, the new government of Czechoslovakia has definitely rejected the Hitler memorandum which was transmitted to Prague by British Prime Minister Chamberlain without recommendations. The text of Czechoslovakia's answer to the memorandum which required evacuation of the sudeten areas by October 1st has not yet been issued, but the memorandum which Chamberlain submitted was given out earlier today. The French and British statesmen will resume their joint conference in London at 10 o' clock tomorrow morning, London time, which will be 4 o' clock eastern Standard Time in America. At that time it is understood they will have before them the full text of Czechoslovakia's answer, which has already been communicated to them in substance by the Czech Minister, Jan Masaryk. And at the same time they will confer on a joint plan of war operations to be put into effect on the instant that Hitler decides to invade Czechoslovakia. It is not certain that Hitler will make this decision. Even if Czechoslovakia closes the door to further negotiations. Hitler's attitude may not be known until tomorrow evening in Berlin when the German leader is to address a great mass meeting in the Sports Palace. The entire German nation has been instructed by the Nazi Propaganda Department to listen to this address.

[Dr. John Watson]

Hitler is due to speak at 8

[Narrator/Announcer]

o' clock Berlin time, 2 o' clock tomorrow afternoon, Eastern Standard Time, which will be broadcast by the Columbia network. In the meantime, German troops are pouring through German Austria toward the Czech frontier and in the Sudeten borderland. The Sudeten Free Corps troops now occupying the town of Ash have moved closer to the positions of the Czech army. Refugees from Czechoslovakia are streaming across the border into Germany. These are mostly Germans, but one group of refugees were Americans from Prague who had expected to take a train from the city of Eger into Germany. And here is still later word from London. The Czechoslovakian answer to the Hitler memorandum is a memorandum to the British government and not to Hitler. The Czechs take the position that no formal reply to Hitler is required, since the Hitler memorandum was not addressed to the Czech government, but was merely handed by Hitler to Chamberlain for delivery to the Czechs. In the same Way. It is expectation of Czechoslovakia, according to the United Press, that Chamberlain will transmit a memorandum from the Czechs to Hitler. We wish to call your attention that at 10:00pm Eastern Standard Time over most of these stations Columbia will again present another European roundup from Paris, London and again from Prague. Also at 10:30pm Eastern Standard Time the feature news program, headlines and bylines will be heard. This is the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Dr. John Watson]

The adventures of sherlock holmes. We present the original stories of the late Sir Arthur Conan Doyle dramatized anew with Sir John Gielgud as Sherlock Holmes, Sir Ralph Richardson as Dr. Watson and today Orson Welles as Professor Moriarty.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

It is with a heavy heart that I come before you with the last adventure of my friend Sherlock Holmes that I shall be able to relate. I have tried in my humble way to chronicle some of our exploits together to demonstrate the singular gifts of that most remarkable of men. It lies with me now to tell you what occurred between Holmes and his arch enemy, Professor Moriarty, when at last they came face to face.

[Professor Moriarty]

Mr. Sherlock Holmes. Your efforts on the side of law and order have seriously inconvenienced me. The situation between us is becoming an Impossible one, Mr. Holmes. It simply cannot go on. One or the other of us must die. Must die, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

It was in the spring of 1891. You will remember perhaps that after my marriage and return to private practice, Holmes and I had drifted apart a little. I followed the newspaper reports of his cases, of course, and called on him quite often. At the old rooms in Baker Street. He even so, however, many weeks would sometimes elapse between our meetings. And so it was with some surprise one April evening that I looked up and saw him standing before me in my study.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good evening, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Ah, good evening, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Have you a cigarette for me?

Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Great heavens, man, how ill you look.

[Dr. John Watson]

I dare say I've been using myself up rather too freely of late, old friend. You have no objection if I close your window shutters?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

No, of course not. Yeah. You're not afraid of anything, are you?

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, to tell you the truth, I am rather.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

It's not like you, Holmes. What is it?

[Dr. John Watson]

Air guns.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Air guns? What on earth do you mean?

[Dr. John Watson]

There's a new and deadly type of air gun, Watson, which has been specially designed by an old acquaintance of ours.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Who?

[Dr. John Watson]

What?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Professor Moriarty. They can only be he from your tone. The same.

[Dr. John Watson]

A match. Give me a match, will you, my dear fellow?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Yes, of course.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, thank you. Is Mrs. Watson at home?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Oh no, she's on a visit to an armed time, quite alone.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good Good. That makes it easier for me to propose that you should come away with me for a few days.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Oh, delighted. But where?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, the continent, somewhere abroad.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Abroad?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yeah. Is that whisky in the decanter there?

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Yes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Now look here, Holmes. What's all this about? There's something more serious in your manner than.

[Dr. John Watson]

You never did quite believe in the iniquities of Moriarty, did you, Watson? You've said so more than once.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

I felt you exaggerated a bit. After all, Professor Moriarty is a respectable figure in public life.

[Dr. John Watson]

Just so. And that's the very genius of the man. Even you, Watson, knowing me as you do, can't quite believe me when I tell you that he corrupts all London with his evil influence.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Oh, I can't quite believe that.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, of course, to the world he's still the professor, the great mathematician, he's respectable.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

But what rare proof have you that he's anything else?

[Dr. John Watson]

None. Well, at least not until this last month. And even now the chain isn't quite complete. But three days more and I shall have him, Watson. Three days more. If I live to see them.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

You can't seriously suppose that your life's in danger, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

No.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

You always love to be melodramatic.

[Dr. John Watson]

Melodramatic? Listen, Watson. This morning, this very morning, in those old rooms of ours in Baker Street. I saw him. Face to face.

[Professor Moriarty]

Face.

[Dr. John Watson]

I spoke to him.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Moriarty.

[Dr. John Watson]

Your distinguished professor within him a criminal strain of the most diabolical kind. That great white dome of a forehead, those hooded eyes. And the white face pushed forward, oscillating from side to side like a snake.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Well, of course, if you believe the old heresy of physiognomy.

[Dr. John Watson]

Only that. Of course not. I've worked for years to follow a thousand different thrills. And every one of them has led to Moriarty. He's the Napoleon of crime, Watson. The secret organizer of almost everything evil that goes undetected in this great city of ours. There he sits. Motionless. Like a spider in the center of its web. A web with a thousand strands. And he controls them, every one. But slowly, very slowly, my own secret plans to expose him have borne fruit.

Every day.

My net is drawing tighter. And he knows it, Watson. He knows the danger he's in. And that was why today he came to see me. I was playing my violin, as you know, I often do when I want to think. And suddenly there he was. Standing in the doorway with his white face swaying in that evil way. Peering at me with his hooded ey. Good morning, Professor Moriarty.

[Professor Moriarty]

Good morning to you, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I believe. How very charmingly you play.

[Dr. John Watson]

How kind of you to say so. Won't you be seated, Professor Moriarty? I can spare you just five minutes.

[Professor Moriarty]

It's singularly good of you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you.

[Professor Moriarty]

I will sit down. May I say something personal, Mr. Holmes?

[Dr. John Watson]

Certainly.

[Professor Moriarty]

Surprised to discover that you have rather less cranial development than one might have expected.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, as you, on the contrary, have rather more than I had imagined. Professor. You will recollect, I am sure, however, that Beethoven's outdid us both. However, our personal characteristics are hardly relevant to the present situation. What have you really got to say to me?

[Professor Moriarty]

Well, perhaps I only suggest it, of course. Perhaps it is a dangerous habit to finger loaded firearms in the pocket of one's dressing gown, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ah, evidently you share that dangerous habit, Professor. I see that you keep your hand in the pocket of your morning coat. Supposing we lay our pistols and our cards on the table?

[Sherlock Holmes]

By all means.

[Professor Moriarty]

I was about to suggest it myself. Ah, I see you favor the Mauser type, Mr. Holmes. And without a silencer. You must permit me to present you sometime with one of these small devices of my own design. They are quite convenient in avoiding unpleasant noise, you know.

[Dr. John Watson]

How very kind of you, Professor. You must ask the hangman to deliver it to me as your last request.

[Professor Moriarty]

You evidently don't know me, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

On the contrary, I think I know you better than you know yourself. I wouldn't take up your gun again, Professor. I've already got you covered with mine.

[Professor Moriarty]

So I proceed. But I assure you it was only to give a harmless demonstration of the silencer of my own spirit accomplishments as a marksman. Mr. Holmes. I've read in those accounts of Dr. Watson that somewhat bovine, no doubt amiable friend of yours that those marks on the wall there made from your indoor revolver practice.

[Dr. John Watson]

Quite so. The initials there, V.R. victoria Regina. God save Her Majesty.

[Professor Moriarty]

Now that I see them, it seems perhaps they're not quite as symmetrical as they might be. One side of the V is a little short, I think. Permit me to correct the slip.

[Dr. John Watson]

Admirable, Professor Moriarty, you were perfectly right, of course. That little mistake has now been rectified. I would like, however, if I may, to improve upon it. Your bullet mark is perhaps a shade smaller than my own. Permit me.

[Professor Moriarty]

Admirable, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, precisely. Above your own mark, Professor. The exact spot, I think. No, no, pray don't look alarmed. My good landlady is quite accustomed to that noise. We shall not be disturbed.

[Professor Moriarty]

I'm very glad of it. For what I have to say, is not without importance. Mr. Holmes. Shall we stop our fencing and begin?

[Dr. John Watson]

By all means. If you will permit me first to correct one statement that you made just now. Well, sir, with reference to my friend Dr. Watson, I am afraid I can hardly permit the adjective bovine in his accounts of my humble exploits. He has been good enough to exaggerate my own achievements and has always been unduly modest about his own. He is a most upright and honourable gentleman, Professor. And very close to my heart. You may say what you will about me, but I can allow no derogatory words about him.

[Professor Moriarty]

Very well, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

I apologize.

[Professor Moriarty]

We who are about to die, salute him. At least you do.

[Dr. John Watson]

You are very certain, aren't you, Professor Moriarty, that it is I who am going to die?

[Professor Moriarty]

There is no other course unless you listen to reason. The situation between us, Mr. Holmes, is becoming an impossible one. It simply cannot go on.

[Dr. John Watson]

It won't, I assure you. For these past few months I've been working to put an end to it all at the earliest possible moment.

[Professor Moriarty]

And you have very nearly undone the careful endeavor of a lifetime, sir. Or at least have seriously threatened it. No, no, no. Don't move your pistol again. I'm only taking out my memorandum book.

[Dr. John Watson]

I beg your pardon?

[Professor Moriarty]

I find it recorded here that you crossed my path on the 4th of January, Holmes. On the 23rd, you incommoded me. By the middle of February I was seriously inconvenienced by you. At the end of March, I was absolutely hampered. And now, at the close of April, I find myself placed in such a position through your continual persecution that I'm in positive danger of losing my liberty.

[Dr. John Watson]

That was certainly the end I had in view.

[Professor Moriarty]

Then you must drop it, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You really must.

[Dr. John Watson]

You know not till after Monday. Professor, you. You know as well as I do that you've made a slip. One single tiny slip. For years I've been aware of you, Moriarty. At the center of your organization. Forgeries, murder cases, robberies. A thousand crimes were planned by you. A hundred agents carried them out. Your subordinates were caught sometimes, but you never were. And yet you know you made the that slip. That single tiny slip. And you know as well as I do that it will destroy you. In three more days my evidence will be complete. I shall have you exposed, brought to trial, condemned and hanged. And you can do nothing whatever to prevent it. My will is inflexible.

[Professor Moriarty]

And so is mine. Three days, do you say? And before they're out, the end will come. One or the Other of us must die, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

Quite so. The five minutes is up, Professor. And I must really ask you to excuse me in the pleasure of our conversation. I'm afraid that I've neglected business of importance elsewhere.

[Professor Moriarty]

Very well then.

Seems a pity, Mr. Holmes, that I've done what I could. I admit that it's been an intellectual pleasure me to see the way in

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

which you grappled with this affair.

[Professor Moriarty]

But I tell you solemnly, Sherlock Holmes, that if you are clever enough to bring destruction on me, you may rest assured that I shall do as much to you.

[Dr. John Watson]

You have paid me several compliments during this interview, Professor. Let me pay you one in return when I say that if I were assured of the former eventuality I would most cheerfully accept the letter.

[Professor Moriarty]

I can promise you the one, but not the other. Good day, Mr. Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, your pistol, Professor. You may need it before Monday.

[Professor Moriarty]

Thank you.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good day, Professor.

[Professor Moriarty]

I think goodbye is the word, Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Goodbye.

[Dr. John Watson]

And so it was. You see, Watson, that singular interview with the greatest criminal of all time and

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

his with the greatest detective.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, thank you, my dear fellow.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

But. But what are you going to do, Holmes?

[Dr. John Watson]

I told you, we leave for the continent. Moriarty is not the man to let the grass grow under his feet. Already one or two accidents have nearly befallen me today upon myself. Yes, the police are gathering all my evidence against him. Everything will be complete in three short days. Meanwhile, I can only lie low. Are you able to leave your practice to come with me?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

I have an accommodating neighbor.

[Dr. John Watson]

Dear Watson, I knew I could count on you. All right then. Now these are your instructions. Listen most carefully.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Instructions, Holmes?

[Dr. John Watson]

I assure you they are most necessary. Tomorrow morning at 8:45 you will take a hansom cab.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

I'll arrange for one to call.

[Dr. John Watson]

No, no, you really must have baby to the letter, Watson. You will leave the house alone tomorrow morning and take neither the first nor the second cab which presents itself at the rank.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Very well, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Hand the address to the cabman written on a slip of paper and tell him not to throw it away.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

And I drive, I take it, to Victoria Station.

[Dr. John Watson]

On the contrary, you drive to the Strand end of the Lowther Arcade.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

I see.

[Dr. John Watson]

And then have your fare ready and the instant your cab stops, pay him and dash through the arcade, timing yourself to reach the other side at exactly a quarter past nine.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Yes, but my dear.

[Dr. John Watson]

Listen man, listen carefully. It's vital. Our lives depend upon it. When you get there you will find a brougham standing close to the curb driven by a fellow with a Black cloak tipped with red. Say nothing, simply jump in and he'll drive you to Victoria in time for the continental express.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

And where shall I meet you, Holmes?

[Dr. John Watson]

A second coach from the front of the train. A first class cat carriage reserved for us. Good night, Watson. And as you value our lives, don't forget a single word of my instructions.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

No, no, no, of course not, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Until we meet. Tomorrow then.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Until we meet. I was infected myself with something of his own inner excitement and sense of menace. I took the handsome and then the brougham with its massive hooded driver. I said nothing to him as I was instructed, and he never spoke to me. A moment later we were rattling to the station. There he left me and drove off without a further glance, his face still hidden. There was no sign of Holmes and my heart sank miserably. I found our reserved carriage, but through some confusion a decrepit ear old Italian priest was sitting there. The moment came for departure. Still I waited by the window in a chill of fear.

[Dr. John Watson]

Scooz a senor, pray go.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

I'm sorry padre, I don't speak Italian.

[Dr. John Watson]

Nor do I.

What?

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Oh good,

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

quiet man.

[Dr. John Watson]

This is no laughing matter. Not yet any way.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

There, you see?

[Professor Moriarty]

Stop.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Stop the train.

[Dr. John Watson]

It's Morati himself, the tall man.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

He'll never do it.

[Mrs. Hudson / Various minor characters]

Stop the train I say. Let me go, you fool. Or if you only knew.

[James Larrabee / Mr. Chetwode]

Let me go.

[Dr. John Watson]

Even the great Mori himself is helpless against the British railway system. Watson. Well, well, it gives us an hour's respite at least.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

But how did he know where we were?

[Dr. John Watson]

By watching you, I expect.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

But I did everything you told me. Wait.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

The driver of the brome.

[Dr. John Watson]

What about him?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

He was muffled, I didn't see his face. It must have been one of Moriarty's men.

[Dr. John Watson]

My dear Watson, it was nothing of the sort. It was my brother Mycroft, shaken for once out of his armchair at the Diogenes Club.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Good heavens. The thing is serious then?

[Dr. John Watson]

Of course. But at least we have an hour and I can use it to take off this disguise and think things over.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

But we've escaped him altogether, surely, since the train connects with the boat.

[Dr. John Watson]

My dear fellow, you evidently don't realize even now that Moriarty is an opponent on practically the same intellectual plane as myself. Do you really imagine that if I were the pursuer I would permit myself to be baffled by so slight an obstacle as an express train.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

What'll you do then?

[Dr. John Watson]

What I should do, engage a special.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

But it'll be too late even then.

[Dr. John Watson]

By no means. We stop at Canterbury don't forget. And then there's always a delay of a quarter of an hour when the train gets to Dover.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Well, so you'd almost think we were the criminals to be chased like this. You mean that he'll catch us after all this?

[Dr. John Watson]

I hope not. We shan't be there, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Look, look here, Holmes, I, I hate to grumble after all this time but really I do think you ought to tell me what you mean.

[Dr. John Watson]

Heaven bless you for a stoutener faithful friend. Watson. I'm sorry. It's only that. Well, well, I don't want to expose you to danger too. That's why I'm being so mysterious. It's very simple really. We shall just get out at Canterbury.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Indeed. And not go on the continent after all, I suppose.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, we must do that. We've no choice but to hide away until after Monday when the evidence will have been completed. You've not seen the papers this morning I suppose.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Oh really, Holmes, what time do you think I've had for that?

[Dr. John Watson]

One must try to make time for everything, Watson. You really should have read about Baker Street.

What?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Baker Street?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, they set fire to our rooms last night. Mrs. Hudson was away from home fortunately, and no one was hurt, I'm glad to say. They thought I was there, of course.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Poor my soul, the thing's intolerable.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, only till Monday, Watson, and by then we'll be in Switzerland. We'll make a cross country journey from Canterbury and take the other boat from New Haven to Dieppe. Unless of course what our friend the professor deduces what I would deduce and gets off at Canterbury himself. Ah, that would truly be a coup de maitre.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

He surely never would.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well I rather doubt it. There are limits even to his intelligence. No, no, I think we are safe enough, old friend. And now there's time for a pipe, I fancy. Won't you join me, Watson?

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

And thus it befell. As we hid behind a pile of luggage at Canterbury we saw the single carriage of the special go thundering past us. And so we made our way across country and at last reached Switzerland. It seemed we had eluded him. To fill in every detail of the final scene is hardly possible since there was no witness to it yet from a certain source that I cannot yet divulge. I do know something of that last encounter. We wandered at our will through the lovely valley of the Rhone and made our way by way of Interlaken to the little township of Mirigan among the Alps. The fatal Monday came and went, and yet I was still aware of a strange febrile excitement in my companion. He was at times feverishly on the alert, then sinking into reverie and would smile strangely to himself. I went with him on that last day of all on a visit to the falls of Reichenbach, forever hallowed and yet cursed in my memory. It's a fearful place indeed, with a torrent plunging far below into a tremendous abyss, a chasm lined by coal black, glistening rock. High above, a pathway has been cut in the cliff face to afford a better view, but it ends abruptly in midair and the traveler has to return. As he came, we stood there giddily marveling at the great spectacle. And on the instant came a message for me by a village lad to say that an English lady back at the hotel was seriously ill and needed my immediate attention. I turned to go, I looked back and I saw Holmes leaning against a rock with his arms folded, gazing down at the rush of the waters. It was the last I saw.

[Dr. John Watson]

Is that you, Watson? Back already? Well, Moriarty?

[Professor Moriarty]

Well, Sherlock Holmes. You see, I found you after all, and alone.

[Dr. John Watson]

Alone, as indeed you must be too, now that your confederates are all under lock and key. I heard from Scotland Yard I escaped.

[Professor Moriarty]

I was too clever for them, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

I don't doubt it. But I'm afraid your occupation's gone, professor, with your organization destroyed. Unless you care to return to your mathematics.

[Professor Moriarty]

It was not my intention. I have another more immediate intention. Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Are you prepared?

[Dr. John Watson]

But before we discuss that, perhaps you extend me one small courtesy, Professor.

[Professor Moriarty]

Most certainly. What is it?

[Dr. John Watson]

My friend Watson, Professor. No doubt he will be somewhat concerned. May I just take a moment to scribble a note to him?

[Professor Moriarty]

Certainly. We can fix the paper beneath my alpenstock there so that it does not blow away. Pray take as long as you wish.

[Dr. John Watson]

That's very good of you. Please don't stop talking, Professor. I mastered long ago the art of writing and conversing at the same time.

[Professor Moriarty]

Thank you. You know, of course, that the message to write for Dr. Watson is a false one.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, yes, of course. I knew it at once. And that it could only come from one source.

[Professor Moriarty]

And yet you let him go.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, Professor, I let him go. I am not without some affection for him. I do not wish to put his life in danger too. Besides.

[Professor Moriarty]

Besides?

[Dr. John Watson]

I've looked forward for a long time to this final duel between us.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe it.

[Professor Moriarty]

Holmes, you're a very remarkable man in many ways. Many, many ways, sir. I'm proud to have known you.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, and are you, Professor. There, my letter's done Then perhaps you'll be kind enough to place it as you suggested. Now, how shall it be, Moriarty?

[Professor Moriarty]

I did not bring a pistol, Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Thank you. Your courtesy puts me to shame, Professor. Here is my pistol. It goes into the forms.

[Professor Moriarty]

Hand to hand.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Yes.

[Dr. John Watson]

Goodbye, Professor. Professor Moriarty.

[Professor Moriarty]

Goodbye, Sherlock Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

The END THE END When I returned to that broken pathway it was only too clear what had happened. It needed no great application of Holmes own methods of deduction. Two sets of footsteps to the verge and none returning. Locked in each other's arms as they fought. They had gone down to the abyss. Only the letter. The last greeting from my friend and comrade. My dear, dear Watson, he wrote.

[Dr. John Watson]

My dear, dear Watson. I scribble this through the courtesy of Professor Moriarty, who awaits my convenience for the final discussion of those eternal questions which lie before us. There can be but one outcome, although I fear that it is at a cost which will give pain to my friends and especially my dear Watson, to you. I think, however, that I may go so far as to say that I have not lived entirely in vain. Pray tell Inspector Patterson that the papers which he needs for a full conviction of the Moriarty gang are in pigeonhole M. Before leaving England, I made every disposition of my property and handed it over to my brother Mycroft. Pray give my affectionate Greetings to Mrs. Watson and remember me as I used to be in our old days at Baker street, pacing to and fro with my violin and driving you to a point of sad distraction with that theme you still were good enough to say you loved. Believe me to be my very dear good friend.

[Billy (the boy) / Alice Faulkner]

Fellow.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yours most sincerely, Sherlock Holmes.

[Dr. John Watson (Narration)]

Yours most sincerely, Sherlock Holmes. And so he perished. Whom I shall ever regard as the best and wisest man that I have ever known.

[Dr. John Watson]

The adventures of sherlock holmes based on the original stories of the late sir arthur conan doyle. Dramatized anew by john keir cross stars sir john gielgud as sherlock holmes. Sir ralph richardson as Dr. Watson and today, orson welles as professor moriarty. Produced by harry allen towers.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen, In a prejudice filled America, no one would be secure in his job, his business, his church or his home. Yet racial and religious antagonisms are exploited daily by quacks and. And adventurers whose followers make up the irresponsible lunatic fringe of American life. Refuse to listen to or spread rumors against any race or religion. Help to stamp out prejudice in our country. Let's judge our neighbors by the character of their lives alone and not on the basis of their religion or origin.