Springbok Sherlock 19xx.xx.xx A Lack Of Evidence

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Springbok Sherlock 19xx.xx.xx A Lack Of Evidence"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Springbok Sherlock 19xx.xx.xx A Lack Of Evidence
• Release Date: January 25, 2025
• Description: Reliving the Golden Age of Radio, this episode features a thrilling Sherlock Holmes adventure set before the era of television, capturing the essence of classic radio dramas.

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1. Introduction to the Case

The episode begins with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson engaging in their usual morning routine. Holmes's curiosity is piqued when he presents Watson with an urgent notebook entry from Sir Charles Druings, sealed with the Admiralty's insignia, indicating a matter of national importance.

Sherlock Holmes (01:15): "It's a matter of national importance and extremely urgent, as it comes, as you can see from the seal on the envelope from the Admiralty."

Despite Watson's initial skepticism about the confidentiality of the meeting, Holmes insists on involving Watson as a witness, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

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2. The Meeting with Sir Charles Druings

Holmes and Watson arrive at Baker Street to meet Sir Charles Druings, a high-ranking official from the Admiralty. Druings reveals that Robert Rivers, his assistant, has disappeared under mysterious circumstances.

Sir Charles Druings (05:13): "You need have no fear of speaking freely in front of a most trusted colleague."

Druings explains that crucial information has been leaking to foreign entities, suggesting that Rivers might be a traitor. The lack of evidence makes the case delicate, and Druings implores Holmes to prioritize the investigation for England's sake.

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3. Encounter with Irene Rivers

Holmes and Watson decide to visit Robert Rivers' residence. They meet Irene Rivers, Robert's estranged wife, who appears cooperative but reveals her intent to divorce and marry another man in America.

Irene Rivers (08:38): "If it is about Robert, then I must tell you that I know nothing... I'm seeking a divorce and leaving for America where I hope to marry the man I'm in love with."

Despite Irene's statements, Holmes remains suspicious, especially as he discovers inconsistencies in her account.

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4. Discovery of a Dead Coachman

Upon investigating the Rivers' property, Holmes and Watson uncover the body of a coachman named Morgan, who appears to have been violently murdered. This grim discovery deepens the mystery, linking Morgan's death to Rivers' disappearance.

Sherlock Holmes (12:17): "It's not fresh in here, there's been quite a violent struggle. The hay canvas coverings are all buried away... It's murder all right, Watson."

Inspector Lestrade is summoned, and Holmes provides crucial evidence, including red hairs and a broken tooth, pointing towards a potential suspect.

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5. The Investigation Deepens

Lestrade identifies Joe Cornfoot as a prime suspect based on the evidence. However, initial attempts to secure a confession fail, leading Holmes to take matters into his own hands. He and Watson embark on a nocturnal mission to Limehouse, following Cornfoot and Alf Brown to a disused warehouse.

Sherlock Holmes (16:20): "I see two items of undoubted interest to you, Watson. One is the sudden death of Sir Charles Druings of a supposed heart attack. How convenient."

In the warehouse, Holmes confronts Cornfoot, who attempts to resist but ultimately fails as Holmes skillfully disarms and captures him.

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6. Revelation and Resolution

Back at Baker Street, Sir Charles Druings arrives unexpectedly. Holmes confronts Druings, unveiling a web of betrayal where Druings orchestrated Rivers' disappearance to cover his treasonous activities.

Sherlock Holmes (25:36): "You have been responsible for all of this, haven't you? You are the traitor who's been selling secrets abroad."

Druings remains silent, and With Druings' arrest, Joe Cornfoot and Alf Brown are charged with murder. The episode concludes with a twist as Druings dies of a heart attack, conveniently removing himself from further suspicion.

Dr. John Watson (26:24): "Charles Druings remained quite silent. He refused to make any sort of statement."

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7. Aftermath and Closure

In the final moments, Holmes reflects on the case's closure and points out further anomalies, such as Druings' untimely death and Irene Rivers' remarriage, hinting at underlying issues yet to be fully uncovered.

Sherlock Holmes (26:59): "Well we won't bother to question that. The other is that Mrs. Irene Rivers has now become Mrs. Douglas Beresford after hearing of the death of her first husband, Robert Rivers."

Watson decides to conclude the case, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating future adventures.

Dr. John Watson (27:34): "Listen again next Sunday to the stories."

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sherlock Holmes (01:15): "It's a matter of national importance and extremely urgent..."
• Irene Rivers (08:38): "I'm seeking a divorce and leaving for America..."
• Sherlock Holmes (12:17): "It's not fresh in here, there's been quite a violent struggle..."
• Sir Charles Druings (05:13): "You need have no fear of speaking freely..."
• Sherlock Holmes (25:36): "You are the traitor who's been selling secrets abroad."

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Conclusion

"Springbok Sherlock 19xx.xx.xx A Lack Of Evidence" is a masterfully crafted episode that stays true to the spirit of the Golden Age of Radio. Through intricate storytelling and classic character dynamics, listeners are immersed in a tale of mystery, betrayal, and the unwavering pursuit of truth by Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. The episode effectively balances suspense with insightful dialogue, making it a must-listen for fans of classic detective narratives.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Might I inquire your movements today, Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

No, only my usual ones in the Paddington area. Holmes. Back here for lunch at the usual time. Surgery late this afternoon and some paperwork in the evening. Nothing very special. Why?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I've had a note book round. It's extremely interesting. It reads, sir Charles Druins will be pleased if you would receive him at your rooms in Baker street at 2.30 this afternoon. It is a matter of national importance and extremely urgent, as it comes, as you can see from the seal on the envelope from the Admiralty.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, I think I understand. The matter will be secret and your meeting highly confidential. You'd like me to lunch in town and come back later?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, not at all. I believe Sir Charles Druings is a very shrewd and devious character. I should very much like a witness to this meeting. You will be here to assist me.

[Dr. John Watson]

We present the stories of Sherlock Holmes. Lack of evidence.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Virginia Lee, Cora Marie, Anton Hussen, Sonia.

[Dr. John Watson]

Herold, Kudiru and Viola Lear.

[Sherlock Holmes]

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[Dr. John Watson]

Sherlock Holmes was accustomed to dealing with government departments. But any assistance he was asked to give invariably came through the visits from his brother, Mycroft. It was unusual to have a direct request from someone as high up as Sir Charles Jones. I went about my business and forgot all about the appointment. There were several difficult cases that needed hospitalization and to my consternation, I found the morning had slipped away. Lunchtime had come and Gone. And when eventually I got back to Baker street, it was nearly half past two. A carriage waited at the curb outside 221B. I let myself in and found Holmes seated in his favorite chair. Opposite him was a tall, distinguished looking man of rather forbidding appearance. Holmes immediately made the necessary introductions.

[Sir Charles Druings]

How do you do, Dr. Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

How do you do?

[Sir Charles Druings]

I am pleased to meet you. But surely, Holmes, you must have understood that I intended this appointment to be strictly confidential.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Watson has been privy to almost every case I've handled, including the most secret assignments from my brother Mycroft.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Unfortunately, Mycroft is not in England at the moment. Were he so, I should doubtless have used him as an intermediary.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He would have welcomed Watson's assistance. I do assure you. You need have no fear of speaking freely in front of a most trusted colleague.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Well, very well. The fact is that I have an assistant at the Admiralty and his name is Robert Rivers. He lives quite near here in upper Montague street, or rather he did. The fact is that Rivers has simply disappeared, can't be traced at all. He should have been in the office two days ago. He didn't turn up. No sign of him anywhere. We're very worried.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You think he may have met with an accident? Surely he has a family. Who would have known that?

[Sir Charles Druings]

Well, he has a wife, a very beautiful wife, years younger than himself. They appear to be estranged. Delicate matter, impending divorce. I understand. Naturally Rivers wishes to avoid that publicity. But that's not what disturbs me, Mr. Holmes. The fact is that for some time now we've been aware that certain information has been passing from our office to foreign shores. As you know, we in Britain pride ourselves on our secret service. Best in the world. Information coming back to us leads us to believe that someone in the Admiralty has, to put it bluntly, turned traitor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. And you suspect it's Robert Rivers?

[Sir Charles Druings]

Grave accusation, Holmes. I, I don't care to put it in as many words, but the possibility does exist. Recently I've been watching Rivers. Only he and I have the keys to the safe where the codes are kept. It's top secret. The codes are continually changing. Now I know that Rivers has been at work on certain papers. I am reasonably sure that he has contacts in Austria. Your brother Mycroft is over there at the moment and confirms that information is being leaked out.

[Sherlock Holmes]

So you think Rivers became aware that you were onto him and that he has skipped the country with your latest plans?

[Sir Charles Druings]

That is what I fear.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. Well, if he's been missing for two days, he could easily be Aboard ship or even across the Channel. What does his wife say?

[Sir Charles Druings]

We have not contacted her. She's really at his house. The voyages homes. I don't want to call in the yard. If this can be handled quietly, if you can obtain proof that Rivers had defected, then our men on the continent will know what to do. At the moment there is simply not enough evidence. Will you consider taking up this investigation and giving it top priority? Please agree, for England's sake.

[Dr. John Watson]

First. I knew Holmes would say yes and he lost no time in taking action. The moment Charles left us Holmes reached for one of his files. He speedily confirmed the background and address of Robert Rivers and giving me time for a light luncheon, suggested a short walk round to the Rivers home and Upper Montague Street. In response to our ringing the door was opened by an extremely lovely lady and she was quite obviously the wife we'd been told about.

[Irene Rivers]

Yes, can I help you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I beg your pardon madam, but am I addressing the wife of Robert Rivers?

[Irene Rivers]

I am Irene Rivers.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I am Sherlock Holmes and this is my friend and colleague Dr. Watson.

[Irene Rivers]

Oh, Mr. Holmes. But of course I have heard of you. Would you care to step inside before stating your business?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You are very kind, thank you.

[Irene Rivers]

Please come this way. I presume that a visit from someone as illustrious as yourself must mean that you wish to ask questions about Robert. Please, won't you both be seated?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Thank you. What makes you assume it's in connection with your husband, Mrs. Rivers?

[Irene Rivers]

Because he's the only one who matters here. If it is about Robert, then I must tell you that I know nothing. I haven't seen him in months. I'm only here for a few days to collect some possessions and then I'm about to sail for the United States.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see. If you see so little of your husband then presumably you know nothing of his movements?

[Irene Rivers]

Nothing at all. Even when I stayed here permanently and tried to help him, he was totally secretive about where he was going and why.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You have no idea where he is at the moment?

[Irene Rivers]

At his office presumably.

[Sherlock Holmes]

He's not been seen for over two days. No one knows where he is. The Admiralty are extremely worried. They fear that he may have met with some misfortune. Not been seen?

[Irene Rivers]

Oh but surely I. Well I've only just returned here, you understand. I've not even seen the servants. Surely they must know.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I believe they have been questioned and can throw no light on the matter.

[Irene Rivers]

I see. Well I wish I could help, I really do. Oh dear. I hope this isn't going to complicate matters. You see Mr. Holmes, I am leaving my husband this time for good. I'm seeking a divorce and leaving for America where I hope to marry the man I'm in love with. I don't wish to part from Robert as bad friends.

[Sherlock Holmes]

When are you thinking of leaving?

[Irene Rivers]

Well, I have a passage booked on the Ruritania for the day after tomorrow.

[Dr. John Watson]

I see.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well then let us hope we have good news for you before then.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, Irene, darling, did you know that. Oh, I, I beg your pardon, I, I didn't know that you had visitors.

[Irene Rivers]

That's quite all right. The gentlemen were about to leave. Let me introduce you. Mr. Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, this is Mr. Douglas Beresford from New York.

[Dr. John Watson]

A great pleasure to meet you, Mr. Holmes. Your name is well known even on the other side of the Atlantic.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That is most gratifying.

[Irene Rivers]

Mr. Holmes is here making inquiries about my husband, Douglas. I have told him that having just returned to the house after an absence of some weeks, I know nothing of his whereabouts.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yeah, I, I see. Well, I'm sorry I can't help you either, Mr. Holmes. Rivers and I hardly know each other.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then it's useless to question you further. May I have a few words for the servants before we leave, Mrs. Rivers?

[Irene Rivers]

Yes, of course. Be so good as to ring the bell, please. Circus?

[Sir Charles Druings]

Oh, yes, yes, sure.

[Sherlock Holmes]

May I leave you my card? You will of course get in touch with me if you hear from your husband or can throw any light upon his sudden disappearance.

[Irene Rivers]

Yes, yes, of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You rang, madame?

[Irene Rivers]

Yes. Briggs. Please take these two gentlemen down to the servants quarters and allow them to question whoever is available. And then be so good as to show them to a carriage.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Very good, ma'am.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If you would follow me gently. Thank you. Well, good day to you, Mrs. Rivers. Mr. Beddist.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good day.

[Irene Rivers]

Good day.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Irene.

[Dr. John Watson]

Irene, darling. What do they really want? What did you tell them?

[Irene Rivers]

I told them nothing except that I'm in love and I'm going to America to divorce and remarry. That's all, my dear.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's all, my dear.

[Dr. John Watson]

The christening of the servants at Upper Montague street took very little time, but to my surprise, Holmes asked to be shown out the back way into Montague Mews. He then entered the private coach house.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, I see. The horse and carriage are not here. All seems in order. The hay untouched, unused. It rained yesterday, but there's no evidence of it in here except. But wait, what is this over here, look.

[Dr. John Watson]

Blood, George. You're right, Holmes, blood and quite a lot of it. Dried blood.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's not fresh in Here, there's been quite a violent struggle. The hay canvas coverings all buried away. Give me a hand. Watson. Look, a man, a dead man.

[Dr. John Watson]

Heavens, Holmes, what a sight. This man's been beaten to death.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, it looks as though he's put up a good fight. His hands are much bruised and, and then perhaps when he was down he was struck violently from the back with a heavy instrument. Look, a coachman's wheel hammer shot at the base of his skull. It's murder all right, Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

Holmes, is, is this Robert Rivers the missing man?

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, no, I think not. Watson. He's a servant. I should judge from his guard that he's a family coachman. Poor fellow's dead all right. Well that means we shall have to bring the police into this case. Can you please use the telephone, Watson? I saw one on the wall inside the hall. Yes, get through to Inspector Lestrade at Scotland Yard, tell him to come to me or send a man round.

[Dr. John Watson]

Right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

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[Dr. John Watson]

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[Sherlock Holmes]

Struck down from behind. Murder. All right. I hope you don't think this is too small a matter for you, Lestrade. This is the home of Robert Rivers, isn't it? He works for the Admiralty. A murder on the premises of anyone employed at such places has serious undercurrents. I see that the horse and carriage are not here. Is it possible that Mr. Rivers has taken them? Yes, it is possible. But I think you do well to concentrate on this as a straightforward murder, Lestrade. Well, where do we start? Any ideas? Oh yes, yes, plenty. You're looking for a man of approximately 5 foot 8 inches tall. He has red hair and he has a tooth missing from the front of his mouth. Holmes, you aren't serious? I'm never more so. The coachman Morgan put up a good fight. See the knuckles of his hands and the bruises on his face? He landed several blows to the head of his assailant. Adhered to the blood on his hands were various hairs. I've used tweezers to place them in this envelope. Yes, the hairs as you will see are of a rather vivid red. Yes, yes, all right Holmes, carry on. You'll find there's also a broken tooth in that envelope. I picked it up from the store. It must have been from the man Morgan was fighting because Morgan's teeth are all quite intact. Also on the beam of the stable there are similar red hairs. That shows that the man was hit and staggered back. His head hit the post at roughly five and a half feet from the ground. It is reasonable therefore to assume that he is a small man. He must have red hair and a beard. Well that is something to go on, isn't it? I think so. There must be hundreds of red headed men in London, but not many who also have broken front teeth. It narrows down the field somewhat. I think you'll find that the killer is a hired thug experienced in this field. May I make a final suggestion? By all means. Try Limehouse. There is a pub called the Anchor near the river. It's the kind of place where all the seamen gather. There is a so called gymnasium at the back. I've long suspected it as being a screen for various smuggling activities. If you get a couple of plain clothes men to dress up as rough seamen, they may be able to pick up a lead on the man you're after. Well, yes, all right, I'll follow through on that Holmes, thanks.

[Dr. John Watson]

After we left Montview Mews, Holmes went back to Baker street and I took a cab to my surgery. I delayed my work long enough. It was now quite dark But I was able to see the many patients who'd been waiting for me. It was late when I eventually made my way back home.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah Watson, I've been sniffing about in Limehouse. The Strayed's men are there standing out like sore thumbs. They were in the bar of the Anchor but in a way they helped. They made my own investigations pass quite unnoticed. I found the murderer all right.

[Dr. John Watson]

You have? Well who is the man?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Almost an undesirable creature by the name of Joe Cornfoot. He's a burly and a five foot seven, has red hair and a front tooth missing. I've advised Scotland Yard and the Strayed should call him in for questioning. They should be able to get the truth out of him.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, but Holmes, even if they do get a confession out of this man, will that help you to trace what has happened to Robert Ribbons?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I sincerely hope so Watson. Well there must be some connection. An important admiralty man disappears and his coachman is murdered on the same night. No, there must be a link. It all depends on the Strayed. Can he get at the truth? Let's hope so. Well it's been a long day, I'm forgetting to bed.

[Dr. John Watson]

Good night Hans.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now come on Cornfoot, tell me the truth.

[Joe Cornfoot]

You ain't got nothing on me Inspector. What makes you think I'm the man you want?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You've got a front tooth missing haven't you? We've got one that will fit that gap in your mouth. Exactly.

[Joe Cornfoot]

So what? Lots of seamen have got teeth missing.

[Sherlock Holmes]

How did you come to lose yours?

[Joe Cornfoot]

Well it must have been two, three nights ago. I was mixing it with another bloke in the gym at the back there.

[Irene Rivers]

A fellow called Max Welder.

[Joe Cornfoot]

Caught me one in the face, not me bleeding tooth down his throat. Yeah, look that's Welder, just come in. You can go and ask him if you like.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I will later on. Tell me where you were last Monday night between the hours of six and midnight.

[Joe Cornfoot]

Well let's see, I was, I was here most of the time. Yeah, yeah, the landlord will bear me out, he'll tell you that I a bit of grub, a few pints, then I went round to the gym and had a couple of rounds of the boys and got me tooth knocked out and came back in the air until closing time.

[Dr. John Watson]

As a matter of fact because of.

[Joe Cornfoot]

Me smelling face slider I spent the night right here in one of the rooms at the Anchor.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You expect me to believe that?

[Joe Cornfoot]

Oh please yourself. I've got a dozen blokes to back me up.

[Dr. John Watson]

Just hold on Jiffy.

[Joe Cornfoot]

Alf Brown is the landlord. Hey Alf, come over here.

[Sir Charles Druings]

What is that?

[Joe Cornfoot]

The inspector here is questioning me about where I was on Monday night. He seems to think I ain't telling the truth.

[Dr. John Watson]

You tell him.

[Sir Charles Druings]

They.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well let's see now.

[Sir Charles Druings]

That, that will be the day.

[Dr. John Watson]

You had your trust knocked out, couldn't it? Right.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Yes. Haven't you done such a nice supper to see all nights if I recall.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well there's Max Welder over there. He's a bloke who copped you one, wasn't he?

[Sherlock Holmes]

All right, all right, you're all going to stick to together. But I warn you Al Brown, this is a serious offense. If you are shielding a murderer, lying on his behalf and you are an accomplice and you could end by swinging on the end of a rope, remember that.

[Dr. John Watson]

The next day was spent in trying to destroy Joe Cornford's alibi and continuing the search for Robert Rivers. Both ended in failure. A very frustrated Lestrade called in the late afternoon.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I, I just can't move him. Holmes. Can't make the charge stick. He simply says he's innocent and that's that. But he is not innocent, he is guilty. I've been predicting away down at Limehouse and Joe's powers are perjuring themselves to protect him. He is guilty and he knows where Robert Rivers is, I'm sure of it. Well Holmes, I don't know how we get to prove that you're right. Well, I shall have to take active steps myself. There's no time to lose. We move tonight. First I want you to send off two telegrams for me. One is to Mycroft, wherever he is in Europe. Oh, I think we should be here to take the responsibility. The second is to Sir Charles Druings. Then I want you to have your men at the ready down at Limehouse. Lestrade, Watson, are you agreeable to accompany me?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh yes, yes of course, of course.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then it's about 9:00. We will journey to Limehouse, suitably clad of course. I'm sure I can find old clothes you can get into. A large Inverness cape with big pockets that can contain a revolver or two.

[Dr. John Watson]

So you think it's going to be.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Dangerous attacking dangerous men? Let's go prepared. Come, let's get started. Now let's trade. This is what happens.

[Dr. John Watson]

And so on that rainy windy night, Holmes and I took a cab to the East End of London. We made our way on foot to the Anchor Inn. But we didn't go in. It wasn't all that late we waited down a side alley. After half an hour, two men left by the back entrance near the gymnasium. By the light of the gas lamps, Holmes identified them as Joe Cornfoot and Alf Brown, the landlord. We followed them swiftly and decidedly as possible. They made their way towards the river and at Luke's Wharf they stopped and slipped into a small disused warehouse. Holmes touched me by the sleeve and guided me through the darkness. Inside, the two men lit a lantern.

[Sherlock Holmes]

There. There you are, you see, they're kneeling down. Look. About to lift up a wooden trap door in the floor.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, but Holmes, what does all this mean?

[Sherlock Holmes]

She'll find out pretty soon. Wait, wait.

[Joe Cornfoot]

Waste of time if you ask me. We know we're safe enough.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Then we've got to check, though we can't be too careful.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, give it a.

[Sir Charles Druings]

No, you take that side.

[Dr. John Watson]

Ready there?

[Joe Cornfoot]

Yeah, I'm ready. Right.

[Irene Rivers]

See?

[Joe Cornfoot]

Still there. Told you. No chance of anyone discovering him under the floorboards. Now all we have to do is put him in the test.

[Dr. John Watson]

Come on now.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Easy.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No.

[Dr. John Watson]

Easy.

[Sir Charles Druings]

No, that.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's got it.

[Sir Charles Druings]

Close him in.

[Dr. John Watson]

Right.

[Joe Cornfoot]

Now, tomorrow he goes aboard the Seawolf. Once out at sea, the captain drops a chest overboard and that's that. We settle back and start collecting rich blokes. We're going to be nice and rich for the rest of our days.

[Sherlock Holmes]

In order to.

[Dr. John Watson]

The cops won't give up.

[Sir Charles Druings]

They'll still be asking questions.

[Joe Cornfoot]

I'll let them.

[Irene Rivers]

There's a lack of evidence.

[Joe Cornfoot]

They can't make any accusations stick. It's worth taking a few risks.

[Sherlock Holmes]

One risk you make. There are two revolvers pointing at you and both my friend and I are crack shots. Keep them silent, Watson. Let's get the straight in here. I know he's been following us. Yes, the game is up for you, too. You may have been lucky once, Cornfoot, but you don't need a false alibi for this evening's work. This time you face a charge of murder. The killing of Roberto Rivers, whose body you have just placed in that sea chesty.

[Joe Cornfoot]

You clever swan. How do you rather find out?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You'll have plenty of time for fuzzing out the answers when we have you behind bars. Holmes. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

I take it you're all right.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, there's nothing wrong with us. But our friends here have a lot of explaining to do. You'll find a dead body of Robert Rivers in that sea chest. Take these men away and then make another arrest. A bigger fish this time. These are just two sprats to catch. Mackerel. Come, Watson. They're still important.

[Dr. John Watson]

Worms and I left us strayed in charge and took a waiting carriage back to Baker Street. There we hastily changed from our old clothes, washed ourselves as cleanly and speedily as possible. And at exactly midnight, while the chimes of Big Ben ran out over the city, I heard someone pull our doorbell. It was Sir Charles Druing. Holmes. Welcome. Was most cool.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I have to report that my case is closed, Druing. The body of Robert Rivers has been discovered. Thank you for answering my telegram by keeping this appointment. But you must have known that to stay away would have been more condemning than to face my accusations.

[Sir Charles Druings]

I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about.

[Sherlock Holmes]

But I think you do. You have been responsible for all of this, haven't you? You are the traitor who's been selling secrets abroad. The secrets of the Admiralty, new improved armory on our warships. You knew Mycroft might easily discover the leakage and who was responsible. So thinking to throw him off the scent you turn to me. But you have already committed the major crime. Hiring Joe Cornfoot to abduct Rivers. Then you wish to plant further evidence of his treachery by sending Cornfoot back into Rivers house with enemy correspondence. But the coachman intervened. He was killed. Cornfoot fled and you had Rivers killed and his body made ready for a final disappearance at sea. You.

[Sir Charles Druings]

You will have to prove all this.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh yes, certainly shall be able to do so. In your case there is no lack of evidence. Would you care for a glass of brandy while we wait for Scotland Yard? They won't belong.

[Dr. John Watson]

Charles Doings remained quite silent. He refused to make any sort of statement. When Lestrade and his men arrived to take him away Joe Cornfit and Alfred Brown were arrested on charges of murder. And Holmes lost interest in the case completely. It was over a week later when we were sitting at breakfast.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I see two items of undoubted interest to you, Watson. One is the sudden death of Sir Charles Druings of a supposed heart attack. How convenient. Well we won't bother to question that. The other is that Mrs. Irene Rivers has now become Mrs. Douglas Beresford after hearing of the death of her first husband, Robert Rivers. Ah well, I trust you have an uneventful day today, Watson. I certainly intend to do so.

[Dr. John Watson]

Listen again next Sunday to the stories.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Of Sherlock Holmes with Graham Armitage's Holmes and Kerry Jordan as Dr. Watson.