Sherlock Holmes - The Problem of Thor Bridge

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Sherlock Holmes - The Problem of Thor Bridge

Date: August 1, 2026

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Overview

This episode presents a dramatized classic Sherlock Holmes mystery, "The Problem of Thor Bridge" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Adapted for radio, the story plunges listeners into a tale of jealousy, social intrigue, and a seemingly insurmountable murder case. Holmes and Watson unravel the threads linking a powerful American magnate, his tormented governess, and a murder with an almost air-tight case against an innocent woman.

The episode stays true to the tone and drama of Golden Age radio with evocative performances and period atmosphere. It's both an homage and a fresh, vigorous retelling, highlighting key elements of justice, truth, and human complexity.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. The Setting and Main Characters (03:16–04:43)

• The story is set on a grand English estate owned by the wealthy and domineering American, J. Neil Gibson.
• Key characters:
  • J. Neil Gibson: The "Gold King," wealthy, forceful, and used to getting his way.
  • Grace Dunbar: The children's governess—principled, idealistic, and suspected of murder.
  • Mrs. Gibson (Maria): The senator's wife, passionate, jealous, and ultimately the murder victim.
  • Holmes and Watson: Consulting detectives called to solve the murder.

Memorable Quote:
"You're the first thing he's ever wanted that he's not been able to buy."
— Mrs. Gibson to Grace Dunbar (02:19)

2. The Crime (11:18–13:23)

• Mrs. Gibson is found shot dead at Thor Bridge. Circumstantial evidence points to Grace Dunbar:
  • A note in Mrs. Gibson’s hand seemingly from Grace Dunbar, summoning her to the bridge.
  • Grace has no alibi for the time of death and is known to be at the scene.

3. The Evidence Piles Up (13:23–14:38)

• A pistol, apparently the murder weapon, is found hidden in Grace Dunbar’s wardrobe.
• The police quickly build a case against Grace.
• J. Neil Gibson insists on her innocence, offering money and his influence to Holmes.

Notable Exchange:
"My professional charges are on a fixed scale." — Holmes
"You don't vary them?" — Gibson
"Only when I remit them altogether." — Holmes (14:14)

4. Underlying Relationships & Motives Explored (14:48–22:03)

• Holmes probes into the tangled relationships:
  • Gibson’s infatuation with Dunbar, and the tension with his wife.
  • Dunbar’s positive influence over Gibson, encouraging charity and good works.
  • Mrs. Gibson’s jealousy and social isolation.

Quote:
"I made him see past the dollars to something more lasting."
— Grace Dunbar (20:29)

5. Grace Dunbar’s Interrogation (19:46–24:39)

• Grace insists on her innocence, explaining:
  • Mrs. Gibson asked her for a secret meeting on the bridge (not the reverse).
  • She destroyed the note Mrs. Gibson sent her, at the wife's request.
  • The note found on Mrs. Gibson was her own reply, but altered.

6. Holmes and Watson Investigate the Estate (27:08–29:00)

• Holmes visits the crime scene, noticing a fresh chip on the bridge balustrade.
• Technical examination raises questions about the “note” evidence, and the possibility of a staged scene.

7. Motives and Character Suspicions Weighed (29:23–40:46)

• Theories explored:
  • Bates (the estate manager): Loyal to Mrs. Gibson, hates Gibson but unlikely to kill.
  • Ferguson (secretary): Disapproves of changes but has an alibi.
  • Gibson: Could benefit most from his wife's death and has access to the murder weapon.
• Missing gun from the house’s collection deepens the plot.

8. Holmes Reconstructs the Crime (42:03–45:35)

• Holmes sets up a re-enactment on Thor Bridge:
  • He ties a gun to a stone with a string, as theorized.
  • Drops it over the side, proving how Mrs. Gibson could have shot herself and staged Grace.
  • This demonstration explains the fresh chip in the stonework and the weapon’s absence.
• Holmes deduces that Mrs. Gibson’s death was a carefully planned suicide, meant to frame Grace Dunbar.

Climactic Quote:
"With the help of the God of justice, I'll give them a case that'll make England ring."
— Sherlock Holmes (42:02)

9. Conclusion and Reflection (45:35–46:31)

• Grace Dunbar is exonerated.
• Holmes and Watson ponder the depths of jealousy, love, and manipulation seen in the case.
• J. Neil Gibson and Grace Dunbar are left to forge a new future, with Holmes and Watson musing on their profound impact as individuals and together.

Closing Insight:
"Two very different people, of course. With more in common than is visible to the naked eye. A recipe for success."
— Sherlock Holmes (46:30)

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Notable Quotes & Moments With Timestamps

• On Gibson’s character:
  "[You should be flattered, Ms. Dunbar. You're the first thing he's ever wanted that he's not been able to buy.]" — Mrs. Gibson (02:19)

• Holmes challenges Gibson’s honesty:
  “[No Mr. Gibson, I'm dismissing you. This matter is quite complicated enough without the added difficulty of false information.]” — Holmes (15:21)

• Holmes on motivation:
  "[It's only for the young lady's sake that I touch your case at all. Nothing she's accused of is worse than what you've just admitted.]" — Holmes to Gibson (31:25)

• Holmes’ reasoning on the gun:
  "[You're not going to do anything so stupid as take it home and hide it carefully in the first place where anyone's going to search.]" — Holmes (38:13)

• Holmes’ dramatic proof:
  "[If I tie one end of the string to the gun and the other... I'm standing where Mrs. Gibson stood and I've done everything that Mrs. Gibson did... Drag the river Cummings and you'll find Mrs. Gibson's suicide weapon lying right next to Watson's pistol.]" — Holmes (43:18–44:34)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 03:16 – Main cast introduced; setup of the family and estate.
• 11:18 – Holmes and Watson review the facts and evidence.
• 19:46 – Holmes interviews Grace Dunbar for her side.
• 27:08 – On-scene investigation at Thor Bridge.
• 38:13 – Holmes and Watson theorize about concealed evidence.
• 42:03 – Holmes reconstructs and solves the crime.
• 45:35 – Case resolution and discussion of the human elements.

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Final Thoughts

This radio dramatization masterfully conveys the suspense and complexity of a Sherlock Holmes investigation, rooted in deep personal motivations and social context. Key performances bring vibrant life to each character. Holmes' detective reasoning and Watson's steadfast partnership are central throughout, making this a rich and authentic golden age radio experience for fans and newcomers alike.

Transcript

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[Grace Dunbar]

Now, when you've finished copying the map, I want you to write in the names of the cities I've marked with crosses. I'll start you off New York. Now you do the rest. And no cheating. If you both have the same wrong answers this time I shall be very. Mr. Gibson.

[J. Neil Gibson]

A word with you, Ms. Dunbar.

[Grace Dunbar]

Of course, sir.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Out here.

[Grace Dunbar]

Very well. Carry on quietly please, children.

[J. Neil Gibson]

What are you two staring at? Get back to work. That's better.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Here. You're not the only one playing with maps.

[Grace Dunbar]

How long have you been watching me? And besides, we are certainly not playing.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Neither am I. Look at it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The new hospitals, all six of them.

[J. Neil Gibson]

From Maracagu to the San Antonio Falls. The Gibson clinics. Satisfied now?

[Grace Dunbar]

Of course not. Six isn't enough. 60 wouldn't be enough.

[J. Neil Gibson]

You want to bankrupt me?

[Grace Dunbar]

You could cover South America with hospitals and hardly miss a cent.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Is that what you want? Is that all you want?

[Grace Dunbar]

It would do for a start.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well, I dare say something can be arranged.

[Grace Dunbar]

Now you know perfectly well. You have only to say the word.

[J. Neil Gibson]

And when will you say the word?

[Grace Dunbar]

Senator? My word has been said.

[J. Neil Gibson]

And I've told you how things stand. If I were free.

[Grace Dunbar]

But you're not free, are you? So things must stay as they are for the present. If I can accept that. Surely you can. No, he can't. Mrs. Gibson. Good morning, Ma. He can't accept it because he's never known what it's like to go without. Have you, Neil?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Not like you.

[Grace Dunbar]

Not like me. At least not until now. You should be flattered, Ms. Dunbar. You're the first thing he's ever wanted that he's not been able to buy.

[Narrator]

The problem of thor bridge by sir arthur conan doyle. Dramatized for radio by bert coulls with clive medicine as sherlock holmes and michael williams as Dr. John watson and featuring william hootkins as j. Neil gibson and charlotte attenborough as grace dunbar. The problem of thaw bridge.

[Grace Dunbar]

On. On Gehenna. Tell me again.

[J. Neil Gibson]

You're like no woman I've ever known.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Marry me.

[Spin Quest Announcer]

Why?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why? Because it's what I want. What about what I want. I know what. No, don't. No, please.

[Grace Dunbar]

Please.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Whoa.

[Grace Dunbar]

Whoa.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Gala. Whoa. Are you all right?

[Spin Quest Announcer]

Mom?

[Spin Quest Promoter]

Mom.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mrs. Gibson.

[Grace Dunbar]

Mr. Bates. I didn't see you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You'll pardon my saying so, but you didn't seem to see much of anything. You near ended up inside the house.

[Grace Dunbar]

Would you help me down, please?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of course, ma'.

[Grace Dunbar]

Am.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'll get one of the lads to see to your horse.

[Grace Dunbar]

Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A fine creature like this has to be looked after. I've seen too many things on this estate with her away for one of attention.

[Grace Dunbar]

You're a good man, Mr. Bates. Make sure that you're not also a foolish one.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I know where my loyalties lie.

[Grace Dunbar]

Loyalty is like love. Giving it to the wrong person can't be dangerous. Thank you, Gehenna.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mom, what's wrong?

[Grace Dunbar]

Nothing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Have you hurt your arm?

[Grace Dunbar]

No, it's nothing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Show me. How did you come by these? I see, Mr. Bates.

[Grace Dunbar]

Forget what you have seen, Mr. Bates. But remember what I said.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He was expecting you at 11. Mr. Ferguson. Not everything in life can be reduced to a cut and dried timetable. I can't run his estate the way you run his office. So I noticed. You keep your clever remarks to yourself. We shouldn't be enemies, Bates. We're both wrapped up in this damn situation and we've both got plenty to lose. Well, that should make us allies. And what the devil you have to lose everything. Do you think I've slaved away for him for all these years to finish up running a charitable society? Now that damn governess is bleeding the guts out of him. So who's gonna change things then? You? Something's got to happen. Well, perhaps something will. And it has to be. Low winds and crack your cheeks. Rage. Blow, you cataracts and hurricaneoes Morning, Holmes spoutily have drenched our steeples, drowned the cock. Yes, I thought I heard the Boseman oak cleaving thunderbolts singe my white head. You've got a case at last, then. I didn't realize the faculty of deduction was so contagious. Wasn't much of a deduction. When you're not working, your mood goes up and down with the weather. That explains the cautious way you put your head round the door, expecting gloom away dark clouds and occasional eruptions of thunder. I certainly wasn't expecting recitations from the classics. Let the great gods find out their enemies. Now tremble, thou wretch, what hast within thee undevulgd crimes unwood gift of justice, Hide thee, thou blooded hand. Please, not before breakfast. Ah, here's Breakfast. I hope you're feeling strong. I beg your pardon? The Family Herald. I observed a coffee on the hall table. Oh well, so did I. And you cook I assumed. What's that got to do with breakfast? Even so trivial a matter as the boiling of an egg demands a degree of attention. So, Mariah's new master. Holmes, why don't we ever have a straightforward conversation? Mariah's new master. A love romance in five instalments. Final installment today. Oh, the AGUS came a poor second I'm afraid. Tough are they? Think of them as challenging. When does Mrs. Hudson return? Two weeks next Friday. Who'll be walking skeletons? How's the coffee? Yes, I have a case. After a month of stagnation the wheels move once more. Have you heard of Neil Gibson?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Dear Mr. Sherlock Holmes, I can't see the best woman God ever made go to her death without doing all that is possible to save her.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well of course I have the American senator. I think I'll risk it. Ex senator? Yes. Lives over here now. What a huge estate five years ago. Anything else? Neil Gibson, the Gold King. Ridiculous nickname. Accurate. His fortune supposed to be beyond calculation.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I can't explain things, I can't even try to explain them. But I know beyond all doubt that Ms. Dunbar is innocent.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you know about his wife? Only what the whole rest of the country knows. She's just been murdered by her own governor. Ah, you've seen the report. I could hardly miss them. True enough, but did you read them? I glanced through the one in the Times. It seemed pretty much cut and dried.

[J. Neil Gibson]

It's the damned injustice of it all that makes me mad. That woman has her heart that wouldn't let her kill a fly.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Cut and dried. The interesting personality of the accused does not obscure the clearness of the evidence. That was the view of the coroner's jury and the police court. So it's gone to asphalt Winchester next week. It's a thankless business. I can discover facts Watson, but I can't change them unless new ones come to light. Is that likely? Well I don't see what else my client can hope for. Your client being what's going on?

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, I'm getting into your involved habit of telling a story backwards here. A royal missive from the palace of the Gold.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh, I see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. Thor plays Hampshire All I know and all I have and all I am

[J. Neil Gibson]

are for your use. If only you can save her. If ever in your life you showed your powers, put them now into this case.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Fulsome sort of chap, isn't he? Don't underestimate him Watson. He's a. A formidable character and a violent one.

[Grace Dunbar]

Violent?

[Sherlock Holmes]

So it said. He's quite definite about this Ms. Dunbar's innocence without offering a shred of evidence in her favor. Maybe I have a clue and don't know it. Had no idea the case was coming my way I'd have had these sorted out and ready. Horrible murder on historical English estate. One or two useful facts but under half a page of lurid speculation. Most of these others are even worse. I'll give it to you in a nutshell.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then you'll be able to take an intelligent interest in the proceedings. You're too kind. Now J. Neil Gibson, ex senator of some western state and now one of the greatest financial powers in the world. He married a wife, the victim of this tragedy. I know nothing about her save that she was past her prime. Which was unfortunate as yes. The couple's two young children were superintended by Ms. Grays Dunbar, a governess of some attractiveness. Ah.

[Grace Dunbar]

Ah.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well there's the plot. The setting is for bridge half a mile from the house. That's where the body was found.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Found late at night, clad in her dinner dress with a shawl over her shoulder. Shoulders and a bullet through her brain. Why suspect the governess?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Shut up and get out of my way. Give me the lamp sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No

[J. Neil Gibson]

pistol. Close range.

[Sherlock Holmes]

One shot.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Watch that in her hand. Where?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Her left hand. Here. Leave it Bates, I'm sure I can get it. There. It was just a bit of paper.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Give it to me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Some sort of note.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Bates, give it to me. I said

[Sherlock Holmes]

come to thor Bridge at 9 this evening. And it's signed Grace Dunbar. Was it her handwriting?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh yeah.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Apparently she doesn't deny that if the papers can be believed. What's more she was seen at the bridge on the evening of the murder. A reliable witness. A passing local is the best description I've found. It could be the village idiot or the village parson. She has no alibi for any of the rest of that evening. She stayed in her bedroom and was seen by no one. And strongest of all? Yes, strongest of all. Well.

[Grace Dunbar]

This is intolerable, Sergeant.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Just stay quiet and let us go

[Narrator]

on with our work.

[Grace Dunbar]

Miss, if you'll tell me what you're looking for I could save your men this effort.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Nothing in the cabinet, sir, or on the shelves. Do the wardrobe, sir.

[Grace Dunbar]

My clothes are in that wardrobe, nothing else.

[Spin Quest Announcer]

Do it.

[Grace Dunbar]

You'll pay for this damage Sergeant. I swear it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Whatever you say, miss.

[Grace Dunbar]

How dare you patronize me.

[Narrator]

Sarge.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What you got, Jennings?

[Grainger Advertiser]

Here.

[Grace Dunbar]

I've never seen that before.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well?

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well it's loaded too.

[Sherlock Holmes]

With five bullets.

[J. Neil Gibson]

One's been fired. Money is nothing. I beg your pardon? This woman is innocent and has to be cleared. Money is nothing. You can burn it if it'll light you to the truth. Name your figure.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My professional charges are on a fixed scale.

[J. Neil Gibson]

You don't vary them?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Only when I remit them altogether.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well if dollars make no difference to you think of the reputation. If you pull this off every paper in England and America will be booming you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you Mr. Gibson, but I don't believe I'm in need of booming. Watson. Perhaps if we could just get down to the facts, Mr. Gibson.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well you'll find all the main ones in the press report.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Can't you add anything that will help us?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I don't know that I can but if you have any specific questions then ask away.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There is just one point.

[J. Neil Gibson]

What is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What were the exact relations between you and Ms. Dunbar?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I suppose you're within your rights in asking such a question.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We'll agree to suppose so.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Then I assure you that my relations were entirely those of an employer to a young lady on his staff. I only ever spoke to her. I only ever saw her when she was in the company of my children.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm a busy man Mr. Gibson. I haven't the time or the taste for aimless conversations. Good morning.

[J. Neil Gibson]

What the devil do you mean? Are you dismissing my case?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No Mr. Gibson, I'm dismissing you. This matter is quite complicated enough without the added difficulty of false information.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Meaning that I'm lying?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well I was trying to put it as delicately as I could but if you insist on the word I won't contradict you.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh you insufferable scoundrel. I ought to teach you a lesson.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Don't be noisy. It's too soon after breakfast.

[J. Neil Gibson]

You've done yourself no good this morning Mr. Holmes. No man ever crossed me and was the better for it. I've broken stronger men than you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So many have said so and yet here I am. Any views? A man used to getting his own way. Whatever obstacles may be in his path. Yeah. Do you think he'll come back? He's sure to come back. He must come back. Dinner? Oh no, you stay just where you are. Here.

[Grace Dunbar]

It looks disgusting.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You don't want it? Say the word, there's others will be grateful for the extra.

[Grace Dunbar]

I do want it but when I get out of here.

[J. Neil Gibson]

What?

[Grace Dunbar]

I shall see that something is done about these conditions.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well you know. Well I look forward to that.

[Grace Dunbar]

Sherlock Holmes is working on my case. Do you hear me? Sherlock Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well this is more like it. No Family Herald this morning I presume. Are you not eating? Really very good.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh now come on.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's bad enough you starving yourself when

[J. Neil Gibson]

you have a case.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I had a case. After four miserable weeks of boredom and decay and what did I do? I threw it away. He might still come back. I misread the man completely. These things happen. Not to me, to everyone. Was sure he wouldn't let the case drop. Everything about him said so. Joel, what's the matter with me? At the moment nothing that a bit more breakfast and a little less self pity wouldn't remedy. You're right. I know I am. Shall I ring for another kipper? No, no. Did you hear that? What? The postwar. I'll get it, I'll get it. Good news. Thank God for that. From Thor Place, Hampshire. So you didn't misread him? Of course not. Well done. Well what does he say? Nothing. What do you mean it's not from him. Mr. Holmes, Mr. Cummings, my friend and partner, Dr. Watson.

[Narrator]

Pleasure sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Likewise Mr. Cummings. I have a trap waiting to take us to thor plate. No Mr. Holmes? I'm afraid not. Ah, not yet. So Mr. Gibson didn't authorize your letter? No Mr. Holmes. Does he even know you wrote it? No. The Senator engaged my services to defend Ms. Dunbar. He told me he wanted the best defense money could buy. I've done no more than follow his instructions. By sending for us? Exactly against the wishes of your employer. Oh really Watson. I understand your concern, Doctor but I'm sure I can persuade Mr. Gibson that this is the best course. Frankly gentlemen, at the moment all the cards are against us. My client needs all the help she can get.

[Grace Dunbar]

I'll tell you anything you want to know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Good. Start with this. What was your relationship with Mr. Gibson's wife?

[Grace Dunbar]

That's not an easy question to answer. Until this terrible business happened I would have said that she liked me well enough. Well perhaps tolerated me would be a better phrase.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My client was in sole charge of the children after all. Mrs. Gibson would hardly have permitted that if she didn't think she was a fit person. Did she know of your relationship with her husband?

[Grace Dunbar]

She knew I had some influence over him, yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did she know the nature of that influence?

[Grace Dunbar]

Do you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not an exact detail, no.

[Grace Dunbar]

Then perhaps I should furnish you with

[Sherlock Holmes]

exact details if you consider the matter too personal. Please do.

[Grace Dunbar]

I was able to make him understand that one man's fortune shouldn't be built on the ruined lives of 10,000 others. That all his power and his strength could be made to work for good purposes and not just material ones. I made him see past the dollars to something more lasting.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You're claiming to have changed the entire direction of his life?

[Grace Dunbar]

That is precisely what I did, Sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What was Mrs. Gibson's reaction?

[Grace Dunbar]

The subject was never mentioned. I don't believe she was capable of understanding the ties that bound her husband to me. Surely she understood completely the mental and spiritual ties.

[Sherlock Holmes]

What was your attitude towards her?

[Grace Dunbar]

I pitied her.

[Spin Quest Announcer]

Why?

[Grace Dunbar]

Because Mr. Gibson treated her very badly. A woman shouldn't be afraid of her own husband. It isn't right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Does she know how you felt?

[Grace Dunbar]

Oh yes. I often reproached Mr. Gibson for the

[Sherlock Holmes]

way he behaved towards her in public, Ms. Dunbar. Before the other servants.

[Grace Dunbar]

Certainly, Doctor. I'm not in the habit of concealing my beliefs as if I were ashamed of them.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You said until this terrible business happened. How's Mrs. Gibson's death changed your mind?

[Grace Dunbar]

It wasn't her death. It was what happened just before it. Scheming little, deceitful, scheming lion. Little? She was like a mad woman. I think she might actually have been insane. First you steal my children, then you steal my husband. What more do you want? What's next? You want my jewels, my money, my clothes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well tell me. Just a moment.

[Grace Dunbar]

What Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Where exactly did this meeting take place? When?

[Grace Dunbar]

On the night of the murder. At nine o' clock on Thor Bridge.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So you were at the bridge that evening? My client has never denied it having. I asked Mrs. Gibson to meet you there?

[Grace Dunbar]

No, no of course not.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh that's the impression we gained from the newspapers. Ms. Dunbar.

[Grace Dunbar]

Dr. Watson, a lowly governess does not summon the wife of her employer to meetings.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It was the other way round. She asked you?

[Grace Dunbar]

Yes doctor, she asked me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ms. Dunbar, do you mean that literally? What did she say?

[Grace Dunbar]

No, she didn't speak to me. She sent me a note.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Where is this note?

[Grace Dunbar]

I destroyed it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Why Mr. Because she asked me to.

[Grace Dunbar]

All this has been gone over before.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Not by me. What did this note say? The exact wording.

[Grace Dunbar]

She asked me to meet.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, no note. The exact word.

[Grace Dunbar]

I don't remember the exact wording. She asked me. No, she implored me to meet her at the bridge after dinner.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you say why?

[Grace Dunbar]

Because she had something important to say to me. Something that had to be said in private. I was to leave an answer on the sundial in the garden.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Didn't that strike you as odd?

[Grace Dunbar]

Of course it did. But she said that secrecy was vital. That no one must see us discussing anything out of the ordinary.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did that explanation satisfy you?

[Grace Dunbar]

No. But I thought I knew the real reason.

[Sherlock Holmes]

She didn't want her husband to know about the meeting.

[Grace Dunbar]

Exactly. So I did as she asked and destroyed the note.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Whereas she kept your reply very carefully.

[Grace Dunbar]

Yes. I was surprised to hear that you

[Sherlock Holmes]

didn't notice it in her hand when you met.

[Grace Dunbar]

I was rather too distracted by what she was saying.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes of course. When she made these accusations what did you answer?

[Grace Dunbar]

Nothing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You didn't try to defend yourself?

[Grace Dunbar]

She wouldn't have heard me. I don't think she even noticed when I left.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How long did you stay with her?

[Grace Dunbar]

Not more than a few minutes, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You left her at say five past nine at the latest. What time did death occur Cummings? The police doctor couldn't be sure. She never can. Did he venture an educated guess? Two to three hours before he examined the body. Which was when? 11:30 that night. So she was killed not long after you left her. Ms. Dunbar you see anyone else in the area as you walked away?

[Grace Dunbar]

No Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Did you hear a shot?

[Grace Dunbar]

No but.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But what?

[Grace Dunbar]

Well I'm ashamed to say that I. I was so agitated after the things she said I was hardly capable of noticing anything.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A considerable pity.

[Grace Dunbar]

I'm aware of it now.

[Sherlock Holmes]

The vital point. This pistol that was found in your room. Had you ever seen it before?

[J. Neil Gibson]

What the devil is the meaning of this?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Senator, if you'll just let me explain what I.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Shut up. By God I'll have you disbarred from.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Gibson, please listen to reason.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I don't know why you think you're here anyway. It's Holmes who's the detective, isn't it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I am, Mr. Holmes. Partner. We work together.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Not for me you don't. I thought I'd made that clear.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You sir, have made several things abundantly.

[J. Neil Gibson]

What the devil is that supposed to mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I thought I was acting for the best.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Answer me, sir.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, Mr. Gibson, you answer me. Do you sincerely want to see Ms. Dunbar safe from the gallows?

[J. Neil Gibson]

What sort of question is that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Sort I should care to have answered.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Of course I do man.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But then you stand in need of my services.

[J. Neil Gibson]

There are other detectives.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You came to me in the first place because you were told that I was the best. You were not misinformed.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I wasn't told that. You were damnably rude and no respecter of privacy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I respect only the facts, the truth.

[J. Neil Gibson]

And what is the truth?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That Grace Dunbar is no murderer. Can you prove that? Yes, I can.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I'll see you in my office at nine o' clock tomorrow morning.

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Good timing Mr. Cummings. Another half hour and the light will be gone. Forgive me, but is there likely to be anything to see after all this time? Oh probably not. But Holmes likes to get a feel for the scene of the crime. Soak up the atmosphere, you understand? Ah well Mr. Holmes, she was found just. Oh, sorry. That's very good. Are you safe? The body was found just over there. The police marked the spot with those stones. Oh very good. How's it lying on the back Any traces of a struggle?

[J. Neil Gibson]

None.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Tell me about the note. It was clutched in Mrs. Gibson's left hand. Clutched? So I understand. They had to prise open her fingers to get it. You know there's something about that note that's been bothering me. Me too. Carry on. Well assuming that the reports were accurate it said come to thor Bridge at 9 this evening. That's spot on doctor. But Ms. Dunbar insists that it was a reply. Hardly reads like a reply now does it? Yes, excellent. Watson. Mr. Cummings. Ms. Dunbar swears that what she wrote was I shall come to Thorbridge. I've been working on the assumption that part of the sheet was lost when it was removed. Ah, so one edge of the paper was torn. Well actually no it wasn't. That's interesting. Interesting? Peculiar more like some grades of paper do tear in a clean straight line. True enough. What the devil Holmes? Come over here. What were you doing? Ruining a perfectly good walking cane. I can see that. Why they haven't seen was trying to chip the stonework. Why Mr. Holmes? To see if I could reproduce this.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Where?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, yeah, I got it. A chip out of the balustrade. Looks fresh. Curious isn't it? Probably done by a passerby, a rambler or some such. You think so? Hey, must have have some interestingly violent ramblers in this district.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Are you sure you won't have one of these?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite sure, just as you like.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Now where's your partner?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Talking to the staff delegation, eh?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I never believed in it. I suppose you were quite justified in wanting the facts. But I can assure you that my relationship with Ms. Dunbar doesn't have any bearing on this case.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's for me to decide, is it not?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I guess most men have a little private reserve in some corner of their souls where they don't welcome intruders. I'd say you knew all about that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

We're discussing you, not me.

[J. Neil Gibson]

And you burst right into that area. I'm not used to being treated like that. Well now the barriers are down and you can explore where you will. What do you want to know?

[Sherlock Holmes]

The truth.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well I met my wife when I was gold hunting in Brazil. She was rare, wonderful and passionate, Tropical. Very different from the American women I'd known. I loved her and I married her. It was only when the romance had passed that I realized we had nothing, I mean absolutely nothing in common.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Your love faded.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I'm not pretending to be any better than I am. You've seen Ms. Dunbar? She's a very beautiful woman. I couldn't live under the same roof as her and not feel the way I did. Do you blame me, Holmes? I said that I'd marry her if I could.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed.

[J. Neil Gibson]

But since that wasn't possible I offered to do anything in my power to

[Sherlock Holmes]

make her happy if she would do the same for you.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I told her money was no object.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very generous I'm sure.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Now see here Holmes, I'm not asking for your criticism.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's only for the young lady's sake that I touch your case at all. Nothing she's accused of is worse than what you've just admitted. That you try to ruin a defenseless girl who was under your protection. Some of you rich men have to be taught that all the world can't be bribed into condoning your offenses. Fine beast, Mr. Bates. He is that doctor. Mrs. Gibson knew a good animal when she saw one. He was hers. Oh yes. How did Mrs. Gibson get on with the start? You won't find anyone with a word to say against her. Including Ms. Dunbar. I don't know how she met her death but this I do know. We all liked her and we all hated him for the way he treated her. He's a villain Dr. Watson, a damn villain. That's strong language, Mr. Bates. Well I've nothing to lose now by speaking my mind. I've given him notice. Two more weeks and I'll be free of his slavery. I was told that your family's working on this land for generations. Yeah, my great grandfather was the first estate manager and it's been father to son ever since. But not anymore. I want you to give Mr. Holmes a message. Will you do that? What is the message? Gibson's not what he seems. All these good works and charities and the rest, it's all fake. He's plausible and he's cunning and he's not to be trusted.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I believe my wife was planning to murder Ms. Dunbar.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Maria was bitterly jealous of Grace and of the influence she had over me.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah yes, the hospitals, the charity work for famine relief. Cubbings furnished me with a list. Most impressive.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Well my wife had never been able to turn my mind and that direction.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And so she was jealous, Mr. Holmes.

[J. Neil Gibson]

She was crazy with hatred.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That fact since you've eluded Ms. Dunbar at least until their final meeting.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Maria was a clever woman, well able to keep her feelings hidden.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Except from you seemingly.

[J. Neil Gibson]

You don't get far in this life unless you can see under the skin of people.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Very true.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I think that there was a scuffle. The gun went off and shot the woman who was holding it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But Ms. Dunbar denies any such thing.

[J. Neil Gibson]

That's not necessarily final, is it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

What do you mean?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I mean she would have been bewildered, in shock. She could easily have hurried home and hidden the gun, not knowing what she was doing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

And now she's trying to lie her way out of it.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, exactly. Here you are, Doctor. The gun room. Very impressive, Mr. Ferguson. There are over 300 handguns in the collection. The earliest is 14th century Chinese. A rich man's hobby. I suppose so. And the murder weapon? An 18th century Spanish revolver. I identified it for the police as part of this collection. I knew it at once. You're familiar with all these guns? Part of my duties as private secretary. An unusual part. Mr. Gibson is an unusual man. Where was it kept? Oh, cabinet number 10. You don't keep these cabinets locked? Mr. Gibson's orders. What about ammunition? Is that more secure? Most of the collection's kept loaded at old times of God. Do you approve of that? One does not disapprove of the senator. Not openly. The police still have the gun, of course. But I can show you the case here. Thank you. This case is made for two guns? Yes. Then where's the other one? I'm afraid I don't know. The second gun is missing. Yeah, I thought that might interest you. This is an interesting case all around. What else you discover? I'll tell you when we get to where we're going. What is this place? It's Mr. Bates private firing range. Is the entire household obsessed with guns? Your gold king suddenly is. He has his own range indoors. Mechanical targets, soundproof shields, all the latest gadgets. Whereas Mr. Bates amuses himself with empty bottles perched on a wall. Intriguing contrast. Why are we here? Because it's a good way from the house. We can talk unobserved. Well, hardly unremarked. And I suppose many visitors to Thor Place end up here. I thought of that. I borrowed these from Bates. Not as exotic as anything from the Gibson collection, but just as effective. He wasn't surprised. I told him that target practice helped you think. And he believed you? Why shouldn't he? It's no stranger than playing the violin, starving yourself or sitting up all night smoking. A devotee of the Strand magazine is in. I have my followers just as you have yours. Now, the governess, Ms. Dunbar, the estate manager, Mr. Bates, the private secretary, Mr. Ferguson and Mr. J. Neil Gibson. I see. We've been thinking on parallel lines. Choose. You.

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Meet Keith Loving dad board game champ Bus driving pro.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I drive 65,000 miles in my bus each year. If people knew what I know, lives could be saved.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Like how?

[J. Neil Gibson]

There are some things I simply can't see on my route. The other day a car tried to sneak past me and ends up right in my blind spot. I turn slowly so accident avoided. But no car should be in the blind spot for a 40,000 pound bus.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's our roads. It's our safety. Visit www.sharetheroadsafely.gov Mr. Holmes. Thank you, Dr. Watson. Bullets already loaded. Car. Shall we? Lead on. Now, what is it to be? 20 paces and turn and five. Yes, that's about right. 20. Ms. Dunbar is innocent. Your reasoning? Imagine yourself in her character.

[Narrator]

All right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

In a cold, premeditated fashion. You're about to get rid of a rival. I planned it. I've written the note. Until you're her to the bridge. I have my gun. You face her and you shoot. Workmanlike and complete. What do you do next? I get rid of the murder weapon by the quickest, cleanest method. I throw it in the stream. Of course you do. You're not going to do anything so stupid as take it home and hide it carefully in the first place where anyone's going to search it. Ruin your reputation as a criminal, perhaps in the heat of the murder. Or a deliberate ploy to throw us off the set. No, Ms. Dunbar is innocent. M. Good shooting. Thank you. And as it happens, I agree with you. Yes. Not mine. Now, once your point of view changes, so does everything else. The one thing that was so damning becomes our strongest clue. Someone put the gun in the wardrobe to incriminate Ms. Dunbar. But who? Mr. Bates? Holmes was next on your list, I think. Motive? I'm not sure. Perhaps he doesn't have one. Tell me about him. Well, he hates Gibson. Indeed. That's hard to be surprising. Really? Bates family have managed this estate for generations. And now he is this upstart American making sweeping changes left, right and center. Does Bates hate him enough to kill his wife and frame the woman he loves? Oh, I don't think so. For one thing he was very fond of Maria Gibson. He told you sir? He didn't need to. And for another how could killing her change anything anyway? It couldn't. Getting rid of Grace Dunbar might. A gold king with nothing to live for set sail back to America. That part's plausible. But not killing a woman to do it. I don't believe it. Besides Bates has resigned. If you were right he'd stay in the job long enough to see if his plan worked. Be my guest. Thank you. Excellent. I've stayed in practice. Is that a joke Doctor? Certainly not. Good. Mr. Ferguson, he's a sort of Gibson in training. General opinion in the servants hall is that he thinks his master can do no wrong. I rather got the impression that things have changed. Well done. He disapproves of the new direction the the charity work. Ah, how do you know? Gibson told me. Then Ferguson isn't as good at hiding his feelings as he thinks he is. Such a strong motive. Remove Ms. Dunbar and the old days may well come back again. Unfortunately Gibson also told me that Ferguson was in London on the night of the murder.

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Ironically enough he was collecting a charity award on Gibson's behalf. Several hundred witnesses of impeccable honesty. Your turn I think. Thank you. Which leaves us with the gold king himself. Motive. Remove the obstacle to happiness with Ms. Dunbar. Opportunity? Ample. And bareface cheap. Enormous. Well it wouldn't be the first time I've been retained by a murderer to solve his own crime. What else? The pistols. Who was better placed to take them? And Holmes, the second gun, the one that's missing. That was the murder weapon not the one the police found at all. Gibson fired off one round from that one then hid it in the wardrobe and used the matching weapon to get kill his wife. Afterwards he just threw it in the river. Very sound reasoning. But why implicate the woman he loves? I don't know. A blind I'll be carrying bareface cheek too far I think even for him. Well then why do I keep seeing that chip in the stomach? I have no idea. Unfortunately. Rather a fire do. Why? Why what? Oh my dear Watson, Holmes

[Grace Dunbar]

you've got it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

With the help of the God of justice I'll give them a case that'll make England ring. Then it was Gibson. J. Neil Gibson? Oh no my friend. It was someone quite different. Very well. The clouds are lifting and the light of truth is breaking through.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I hope you have more to offer than second rate poetry Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe I have Mr. Cummings. Mr. Holmes. String if you please. Here you are. But I really don't see. Patience, patience. Watson, your revolver here.

[Grace Dunbar]

Excellent.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A solid firearm. How does it compare with a murder weapon, Mr. Gibson?

[J. Neil Gibson]

I'd say it was a touch smaller,

[Sherlock Holmes]

probably a touch lighter I fancy. Well, no matter. It will serve. Mr. Cummings, take charge of these, would you? Of course.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Holmes, if you know who killed my wife, why can't you just come out and say so?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Because knowing is one thing, proving is quite another. Watson here has seen me miss my mark before.

[J. Neil Gibson]

And is he about to again?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, we cannot try. Find me a stone. There, a good chap.

[J. Neil Gibson]

I beg your pardon?

[Sherlock Holmes]

A stone round, reasonably smooth, about so big. There are plenty over there. This better be good. Now if I tie one end of the string to the gun and the other. Oh, come along, Senator. It's a simple enough task. Pretend you're looking for gold.

[J. Neil Gibson]

This is hardly a time for levity, Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, now you're quite right. Now if you'll hold the stone for a moment so that I can get my string securely around it. Mr. Holmes, what are you suggesting? Not now, Mr. Cummings. Don't anticipate the climax. Thank you, Doctor. Now Mr. Gibson, if you'll relinquish your stone to Watson.

[J. Neil Gibson]

With pleasure.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you, Doctor. If you walk straight across to the other edge of the bridge and lower the stone over the side.

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[Sherlock Holmes]

If I gauge the length of straight correctly it should stop just above the water level. Let's see. Yes, you're right. Ready to take the strain?

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[Sherlock Holmes]

I'm letting go now, Holmes. Now I'm standing where Mrs. Gibson stood and I've done everything that Mrs. Gibson did. The string, the stone, the gun, the fatal shot.

[Grace Dunbar]

Ah.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I fall backwards and let go of the gun. Ah. Now if you examine the stonework. A new chip not two inches from the old one. Yes. Your gun may have been lighter than hers, Doctor, but this pulled over that value straight with just as much force. Drag the river Cummings and you'll find Mrs. Gibson's suicide weapon lying right next to Watson's pistol. Was there ever a more exact demonstration, Senator? My God. Your gun all right, is it? Oh yeah. Seem far worse than a quick dip in a string.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Good.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Do you know, I don't think we've ever come across a stranger example of what perverted love can bring about. I agree with you to plan it all out like that. Remarkable subtlety of mind. The late Mrs. Gibson extracting that note from her victim and changing it the way she did. I. I believe that's unique. Well you should know. Yes, yeah, good as new. Splendid. Until the next time, I suppose. A drink? Yes, thank you. You know what? I was very impressed with, Ms. Dunbar. We've helped a remarkable woman and a formidable man. Yes, indeed. Do you suppose they'll join forces in the future? It seems likely. Powerful combination.

[J. Neil Gibson]

Oh, yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

One that'll make its mark on the world. Yeah, no question. Thank you. Two very different people, of course. With more in common than is visible to the naked eye. A recipe for success. Is that a fact? Huh. So I've heard. Your very good health. And yours.

[Narrator]

In the problem of Thor Bridge, Sherlock Holmes was played by Clive Merrison and Dr. Watson by Michael Williams with William Hootkins as J. Neil Gibson and Charlotte Attenborough as Grace Dunbar. Maria Gibson was played by Jilly Bond, Joyce Cummings by Charles Simpson, Marlow Bates by Michael Tudor, Barnes Ferguson by Mark Strange, the police sergeant by George Parsons, the policeman by David Antrobus and Joshua Taub and the warder by Don McCorkendale. Other parts were played by members of the cast. The violinist was Leonard Friedman.

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