The Stories of Sherlock Holmes - A Matter of Conscience

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: The Stories of Sherlock Holmes - A Matter of Conscience
Release Date: May 18, 2025

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "The Stories of Sherlock Holmes - A Matter of Conscience", listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio. The episode delves into a morally complex tale involving renowned detective Sherlock Holmes, his trusted companion Dr. John Watson, and the enigmatic businessman Max Corbett. The story unfolds with themes of betrayal, revenge, and the elusive nature of justice.

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Plot Overview

The Tragic Suicide of James Beresford

The episode opens with Dr. John Watson and Sherlock Holmes discussing the shocking suicide of James Beresford, a prominent figure in London's business world. Watson narrates the circumstances leading to Beresford's demise, highlighting the financial ruin he faced:

Dr. John Watson [02:24]: "James Beresford's death by his own hand shocked the London business world. The rumors had been well founded…"

Holmes elaborates on Beresford's character and the possible reasons behind his suicide, suggesting that betrayal from within his inner circle may have driven him to despair:

Sherlock Holmes [03:02]: "Max Corbett? Yes, they started as partners, is that not so? Very many years ago… a man like Beresford makes many enemies in the course of a lifetime."

A Mysterious Visitor

The tranquil discussion is interrupted by the arrival of Gillian Marsh, a young lady seeking Holmes' counsel. She presents a dilemma: how to punish someone who has coerced another into suicide. Her insistence on anonymity piques Holmes' curiosity:

Gillian Marsh [05:08]: "I always tell the truth. I want you to advise me on the correct course of punishing a man who has forced another man to commit suicide."

As Gillian divulges details implicating Max Corbett in Beresford's downfall, Holmes begins to piece together the underlying motives and deceit involved.

Max Corbett's Entrance

Subsequent scenes introduce Max Corbett, who engages in a tense interaction with Gilpin regarding the recent suicide. Corbett vehemently denies any wrongdoing, yet his composure under scrutiny raises suspicions:

Max Corbett [08:32]: "But today is not a happy one. Not after hearing a poor Beresford shoot himself."

Escalation and Confrontation

Dr. Watson recounts how Max Corbett becomes increasingly agitated by mysterious notes and encounters that suggest someone is haunting him. Corbett pleads for Holmes' assistance, believing he is being targeted:

Max Corbett [14:45]: "Well, someone in disguise as Jimmy. … someone trying to scare me, break my concentration."

Despite Corbett's desperation, Holmes initially dismisses the case as too subtle for legal intervention. However, the situation intensifies when Gillian Marsh reappears, revealing her true identity and motives.

The Unmasking of Max Corbett

In a dramatic twist, Gillian Marsh confronts Corbett, exposing herself as Beresford's niece. She admits to forging the threatening notes to unearth Corbett's guilt and orchestrate his downfall:

Gillian Marsh [20:13]: "Because I wrote that note. I wrote it after he died… I wanted to make you suffer, as he must have suffered."

As Corbett reacts violently, Holmes intervenes, ensuring that justice is served through a combination of cunning strategy and psychological manipulation.

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Key Discussions and Insights

Ethical Boundaries in Justice

A central theme revolves around the ethical boundaries that Holmes navigates in his pursuit of justice. While Holmes successfully unravels the truth, he admits to employing morally ambiguous methods:

Sherlock Holmes [22:03]: "I plotted with her to show up the weaker side of his nature… Rumors will spread. … I think justice has been done."

Dr. Watson expresses reservations about Holmes' methods, questioning their ethical implications:

Dr. John Watson [22:40]: "Oh, Joe, yes, very clever. Although perhaps not entirely ethical."

This dialogue underscores the perpetual tension between the letter of the law and the spirit of justice, a recurring motif in Sherlock Holmes narratives.

The Psychology of Revenge

Gillian Marsh's vendetta against Max Corbett highlights the psychological toll of betrayal and loss. Her transformation from a grieving secretary to a determined avenger illustrates how personal trauma can drive individuals to take drastic measures:

Gillian Marsh [20:12]: "I am his niece. Uncle Jimmy was one of the best. You had him hunted down… I wanted to see what kind of a man you were."

The episode explores how the desire for revenge can cloud judgment and lead to morally questionable actions, raising questions about the true cost of seeking retribution.

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Character Interactions

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson

The dynamic between Holmes and Watson remains a cornerstone of the episode. Their interplay balances Holmes' analytical prowess with Watson's empathetic perspective, providing a nuanced approach to solving the mystery:

Sherlock Holmes [22:45]: "Well, the man is defeated in a much more gracious manner than he has defeated many others. My conscience is quite clear."

Max Corbett

Max Corbett serves as the primary antagonist, embodying the archetype of the ruthless businessman whose unscrupulous tactics lead to his own downfall. His interactions reveal a man unaccustomed to facing consequences, thereby heightening the audience's anticipation of his eventual unmasking.

Gillian Marsh

Gillian Marsh's role is pivotal in driving the narrative towards its climax. Her intelligence and resolve make her a formidable character, capable of challenging Corbett's authority and exposing his misdeeds.

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Conclusion

The Stories of Sherlock Holmes - A Matter of Conscience masterfully intertwines elements of classic detective fiction with profound moral inquiries. Through strategic deception and psychological insight, Holmes and his allies navigate the murky waters of vengeance and justice, ultimately delivering a resolution that, while effective, treads the thin line of ethical ambiguity. This episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to ponder the complexities of human conscience and the true essence of justice.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. John Watson [02:24]: "James Beresford's death by his own hand shocked the London business world. The rumors had been well founded…"
• Sherlock Holmes [03:02]: "Max Corbett? Yes, they started as partners, is that not so? Very many years ago…"
• Gillian Marsh [05:08]: "I always tell the truth. I want you to advise me on the correct course of punishing a man who has forced another man to commit suicide."
• Max Corbett [08:32]: "But today is not a happy one. Not after hearing a poor Beresford shoot himself."
• Sherlock Holmes [22:03]: "I plotted with her to show up the weaker side of his nature… Rumors will spread. … I think justice has been done."
• Dr. John Watson [22:40]: "Oh, Joe, yes, very clever. Although perhaps not entirely ethical."

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This episode serves as a compelling addition to the Sherlock Holmes canon, blending traditional detective storytelling with intricate character development and ethical dilemmas. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Holmes and Watson's partnership and their relentless quest for truth and justice.

Transcript

[Expedia]

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[Gilpin]

Are you sure that'll be all, sir?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, thank you, Gilpin. I shan't want anything more. Oh, by the way, how's your wife? Is she recovering from the operation?

[Gilpin]

Well, I'm happy to say there's progress but it will be a long job, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, well.

[Max Corbett]

Yeah.

[Dr. John Watson]

Buy something with this. Cheer up.

[Gilpin]

Oh, thank you, sir, you're most kind. I do appreciate it.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, that's all right. I hope things go well for you. Good night, Gilpin.

[Gilpin]

Good night, sir.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, no use putting it off any longer. We present the stories of Sherlock Holmes. A Matter of Conscience. James Bareford's death by his own hand shocked the London business world. The rumors had been well founded. Never smoke without fire, the financiers said over their whiskies and sodas. Beresford's notes had been going about the city at 40% discount and there were no takers. Settling day was the very next day. He realized he was a completely ruined man and so he took the only way out.

[Sherlock Holmes]

James Beresford, the man who shot himself yesterday, he at least did not leave a wife and family.

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh no, no, quite. Poor devil. I know the man was a gambler and probably wrecked a great deal of havoc through his ruthlessness in business, but I can't help feeling sorry for him. He must have been in a desperate state of mind.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Indeed. Yes, I met the gentleman on more than one occasion through my brother Mycroft in the Diogenes Club. He was on the surface a most amiable and fair minded man. He was well liked by many and feared by most. A man like Beresford makes many enemies in the course of a lifetime.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, you mean that his enemies may have brought about his ruin?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh, undoubtedly. The point is that in order to outmaneuver his kind one has to be within the inner circle, as it were.

[Dr. John Watson]

Well, I, I don't think I follow that Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, I mean the only someone near to him, someone who held his confidence, would be able to trick him so cleverly that it would lead to total bankruptcy.

[Dr. John Watson]

But you think he was driven to this by the treachery of his friends?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Almost certainly. That may appear cynical of me and I doubt if we shall ever learn the truth, but I should judge it to be so.

[Dr. John Watson]

How dreadful that any man can be betrayed to that extent.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Quite. It is inhuman and immoral but not a criminal matter for no one has Broken any laws. One can cheat a man quite legally by giving him false advice. If I sway your judgment to back a horse that has no chance of winning, whose fault is that?

[Dr. John Watson]

Yes, sir, I see what you mean. Beresford was forced to kill himself by someone else. I wouldn't like to have that person's conscience.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, yes, a matter of conscience. Yes, that is a different matter. Ah, we have a visitor. I wonder who that can be so early on a cold November's morning.

[Dr. John Watson]

If it's any more important, you have no need to fear of my presence. I. I've sadly neglected my patience due to this flu epidemic and I must be about my business.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, please don't go. I value your opinions. They give me the slant of the ordinary man in the street.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Oh, excuse me. A young lady to see you, Mr. Holmes. Refuses to give her name and apparently she ain't got no car.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, her business must be urgent to ignore the weather and the social niceties. Show her in, Mrs. Hudson.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Oh, very well. This way please. Thank you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Do come in. May I introduce myself? I am Sherlock Holmes and this is my friend and colleague, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

How do you do?

[Gillian Marsh]

I know who you are. I have often seen you, Mr. Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Do come near to the fire. Take a seat. Some coffee?

[Gillian Marsh]

No, thank you. I cannot stop and you will possibly ask me to leave anyway. You see, I want some advice, but I'm not prepared to give you my name or address.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That is at least honest. You could have lied about those facts and hope to get away with it.

[Gillian Marsh]

I don't lie. I always tell the truth. I want you to advise me on the correct course of punishing a man who has forced another man to commit suicide.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ah, that's his most curious request. Something which is both pertinent and topical. I take it that you're referring to the death of Mr. James Beresford?

[Gillian Marsh]

How did you guess that?

[Sherlock Holmes]

It's really not at all hard. The case is splashed all over the newspapers. Watson and I are discussing the tragedy and the poor fellow's state of mind.

[Gillian Marsh]

Just before you called suicide. While the balance of his mind was disturbed. That what you think? Nonsense. He was driven to it by Max Corbett.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Max Corbett? Yes, they started as partners, is that not so? Very many years ago. An enterprise known as International Supplies. Very ambitious and very successful.

[Gillian Marsh]

It was all James Beresford's skill and business acumen. But Corbett and his cronies got to know more. They deceived him in, in various different ways under different names. Beresford trusted them. He was unaware Even up to the last six months of the bitterness and hatred he was faced with. Can you believe it?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Oh yes. Please continue. You're telling me very little that I didn't know.

[Gillian Marsh]

Beresford was forced in the end to turn to moneylenders only to find that they also were puppets of Max Corbett's men. Then came the final squeeze. It was cold blooded and calculated. And at the moment these men are pretending to be heartbroken, but they are inwardly delighted. They should be punished. They must be punished, particularly Max Corbett. Do you not agree with me, Mr. Holmes?

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear young lady, as I pointed out at Watson only a short while ago, this cannot be regarded as a criminal matter. Everything you say may be true, you may even be able to produce certain facts as proof. But there is no way that you're going to pin a crime onto Max Corbett. If you start to spread these rumors, you can lay yourself open to an action for slander. Max Corbett is too clever to be caught like that.

[Gillian Marsh]

You mean that my hands are tied? That there is nothing I or anyone else can do?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I didn't say that. I shall have to give the matter some thought. I wonder, Watson, while you're doing your rounds, will you be anywhere within the vicinity of the Diogenes Club?

[Dr. John Watson]

I can be, Holmes, Yes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Then would you be good enough to deliver a note to my brother Mycroft? He's bound to be there around lunchtime. Excuse me a moment. Paper and pen. Envelope.

[Gillian Marsh]

Mr. Holmes, it is quite clear that my worst fears have been confirmed. I am doing no good here, merely wasting your time. I'd better leave.

[Sherlock Holmes]

No, no, no, no, no, no, please don't go. There you are, Watson. Now if you could see that this is delivered as soon as possible.

[Dr. John Watson]

Very well, I shall do my best. Oh, will you excuse me now? I'm a doctor and have to attend to patients. I shall call back later. Holmes. Good morning to you.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Now, young lady, answer me one thing. If I agree to help you, you will give me your name and address here and now.

[Dr. John Watson]

I got to the Diogenes Club just before lunch and left Holmes note for his brother. The place seemed unusually crowded. I met a few people I knew who invited me for a drink and it being a cold day, I accepted gratefully. It was while in one of the rooms that I heard the name Max Corbett mention.

[Gilpin]

Ah, Max. Max Corbett. Might have known that you'd be here today, toasting to success.

[Max Corbett]

I don't know what you mean, Wilder. I came to collect some mail and now I'm off to see my fiance. That's worth a toast.

[Gilpin]

Ah, yes. The Honorable Abigail Stratton. Yes, I read of your engagement. Congratulations.

[Max Corbett]

Thank you. But today is not a happy one. Not after hearing a poor Beresford shoot himself.

[Gilpin]

Poor Beresford indeed. Cut out the rot, Max. I happen to have been on the right side when international supplies went under, so I'm not complaining. But I'm not a fool. You and I and the rest of the crowd caused it to happen.

[Max Corbett]

That's a lie.

[Gilpin]

It's true and you know it. You put Beresford out of the game as surely as if you pulled the trigger of that revolver yourself. You played every dirty trick you could to beat him. I've got to hand it to you. You got what you want. Mind you, what Abigail Stratton would think. Well, lucky for you, she doesn't understand business deals.

[Max Corbett]

How you keep Abigail out of this.

[Gilpin]

Oh, it doesn't matter to me. She's your problem. I wonder how you'll explain it all. Tell me something, Max. Were you very afraid of him?

[Max Corbett]

Afraid of him? Afraid of Beresford? No, of course not. Not in the slightest.

[Gilpin]

Well, I'd say you were scared stiff. That's why you couldn't fight straight. You've made a fortune out of him, but you had to do it crookedly. James Beresford was a gambler, but a fair one. Something you'll never be. A fair fighter.

[Max Corbett]

Now, that's enough, Wilder. I'm not staying here to listen to this. And you'd better watch your step. You're right when you say I have influence now. More than I've ever had. So be careful.

[Gilpin]

You can't frighten me, Max. I've taken all precautions.

[Dr. John Watson]

Excuse me, Mr. Corbett. You called for your mail, but this one must have been overlooked. It was at the desk. How he got there, I can't say. Must have just arrived by hand.

[Max Corbett]

Thank you. Excuse me, Walter. What? That's strange handwriting. It looks like.

[Gilpin]

Go on, open it up then, old boy. Might be important.

[Max Corbett]

We can't end it like this. You cannot get rid of me. I shall always be near. I will call upon you at your home in Eaton Square. Next Thursday Evening, exactly at 9 o' clock, you will see me. You cannot avoid it. Jimmy.

[Mrs. Hudson]

What the devil?

[Dr. John Watson]

What's up, Max?

[Gilpin]

You look as though you've seen a ghost. Not bad news. I heard something frighten you again. What is it this time? Something real? Something imaginary? Or is it the fact that you have a guilty conscience?

[Dr. John Watson]

The next few days were very busy ones for me. I was either out in the cold misty London streets visiting sick patients or attending to them. In my surgery I hardly saw Holmes and when I did he was coming in or going out of 221B Baker street, so muffled up that I could scarcely recognize him.

[Expedia]

Then about trip planner by Expedia you were made to have strong opinions about sand. We were made to help you and your friends find a place on the beach with a pool and a marina and a waterfall and a soaking tub. Expedia made to travel.

[Dr. John Watson]

Two days after the inquest on the death of James Beresford the we had a caller. The morning was a foggy one. Gas lamps burned in the streets long after daylight. It was surprisingly cold and Mrs. Hudson arrived later than usual. She was not pleased to receive a visitor in these circumstances.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Oh now what on earth. Oh, it's going to be one of those days.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes?

[Max Corbett]

I want to see Sheila Per.

[Mrs. Hudson]

I'm not so sure that you can. Have you an appointment?

[Max Corbett]

No, but it's early. He must be at home. Lesbie isn't still in bed.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Ms. Per is always up early but he doesn't like to be disturbed at this hour.

[Max Corbett]

Now if you give me no look here, that's enough. Let me in. I didn't come all to say to argue with a common washerwoman on a doorstep.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Common washerwoman indeed.

[Max Corbett]

The rooms are upstairs. Very well, I'll find my own way.

[Mrs. Hudson]

You can't charge him like this sir. He wants to know who you are and what your business is. It's my job to look after him and see that he isn't put upon by the knife so people like you don't be quiet.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Yes, what is it?

[Mrs. Hudson]

This. This man pushed his way in sir.

[Max Corbett]

Sir?

[Mrs. Hudson]

And he demands to see you. Mr. Holmes.

[Max Corbett]

I couldn't keep him out.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's all right. Thank you Mrs. Hudson. You may come back to clear breakfast in 10 minutes.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Oh common. What a woman. Indeed.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Come in Mr. Corbett, take a seat. You know Dr. Watson.

[Dr. John Watson]

How do you do?

[Max Corbett]

No, I don't know Watson but I'm glad to see you. Remember me, Holmes? We've met a couple of times at the club, haven't we?

[Sherlock Holmes]

That is correct. May I ask the purpose of this surprise visit? Oh it's all right. You may speak freely in front of my friend. I have no secrets from him.

[Max Corbett]

Well I am being persecuted and I want you to put a stop to it.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Persecuted? You mean someone is threatening you? You're in bodily danger in some way a threat to your well being. And why not go to the police?

[Max Corbett]

Oh no, there's nothing tangible for the police to get their teeth into. It's far too subtle. The fact is that since my good friend and ex partner James Beresford killed himself, someone's been persecuting me. I've received a note. Here, I'll show it to you. It was delivered at the club. It's a stupid joke, of course. Someone with a perverted sense of humor. It's written, as you can see, as though it came from Jimmy Beresford. The handwriting is the same.

[Sherlock Holmes]

My dear Corbett, if you know this is just a malicious trick, am I not to burn it and forget the whole matter?

[Max Corbett]

Because it won't stop there. It hasn't. I'm. I'm being watched. Followed. I know I am. And I seen him not once or twice, but several times.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Seen him? Seen whom?

[Max Corbett]

Well, someone in disguise as Jimmy. Okay, coming out of the fog. Why, only yesterday I. I banged into him. I. I could have sworn it actually was him. Tall, big, dressed in the way that Jimmy always dressed. Even the same cigars. The smell. The. The fact is that someone's trying to scare me, break my concentration.

[Sherlock Holmes]

If that was the objective, it certainly succeeded. You seem very distrait.

[Max Corbett]

Well, it's getting on my nerves. Of course it is. And I'm too busy a man to be bothered by such petty things. I'm going to get married soon. I don't this is going on a moment longer. You've got to stop at Holmes.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I fail to see quite what I can do.

[Max Corbett]

Well Cass, whoever it is behind all this, I'll pay you any amount of money you want. Now look, today is Tuesday and in that blasted note it says that whoever it is is going to call on me at nine o' clock on Thursday. Well, well, here's your chance. You've got two days. Now catch whoever it is that's tormenting me. Arrest him, hunt him out. Scare the living daylights out of him. Warn him that if this persecution continues he'll be dealt with. I don't quite know what methods you can use. I don't care. Just tell me how much you want to offer me complete protection.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Mr. Corbett, I am a private detective. I only deal in very important criminal matters. I am not a bodyguard and cases like this are of no interest to me whatsoever.

[Dr. John Watson]

You.

[Max Corbett]

You mean you won't take the case?

[Mrs. Hudson]

May I clear now, sir?

[Sherlock Holmes]

I do not consider that there is a case. Cor, but. Yes. Mrs. Hudson, you may take away the breakfast things and see this gentleman to his carriage.

[Max Corbett]

Oh, very well. But you'll be sorry for all this and I don't need that creature to show me out. Goodbye.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Well we've had some ill mannered people in these ear rooms, Mr. Holmes, but he must rate us the worst. Chick. No v Re. That's what the French should call him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

I am inclined to agree but forget it Mrs.

[Mrs. Hudson]

But he called me a common washerwoman and a creature.

[Sherlock Holmes]

It really doesn't matter.

[Mrs. Hudson]

That's all very well. The people in glass houses shouldn't try to put the straw that broke the camel's back with the eye of an eagle.

[Sherlock Holmes]

A plethora of mixed metaphors Mrs. Hudson, but you made your point.

[Dr. John Watson]

After Max Corbett left Holmes was strangely silent. He returned to his seat by the fire and relit his pipe. He knew far more than he told me and wasn't going to tell me more. I packed my things and prepared to leave on my daily rounds. As I put on my overcoat and gloves he said, you will be free.

[Sherlock Holmes]

This evening, won't you Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

I have no appointments. I doubt if I shall be home before 7.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's all right. Ample time to get over to Eaton Square by nine.

[Dr. John Watson]

Where Corbett lives. Where? To pay a call upon him.

[Sherlock Holmes]

That's right. Though I'm quite sure he will have another unexpected visitor before then. But we must be ready for all emergencies.

[Gilpin]

A young lady to see you sir. Her card.

[Max Corbett]

Oh, thank you. Ms. Gillian Marsh, secretary to Mr. James Beresford. What's the time here?

[Gilpin]

8:00, Mr. Corbett.

[Max Corbett]

All right, show him.

[Gilpin]

Very good sir. This way please, miss.

[Gillian Marsh]

Thank you. Good evening, Mr. Corbett.

[Max Corbett]

Good evening.

[Gillian Marsh]

I don't think we've met. I was Mr. Beresford's secretary. I have called because I wanted to know if you could help me. Have you any similar work for me to do? I'm very experienced in your type of business and I'm now unemployed. I'd be grateful for some help but A sedan.

[Max Corbett]

Miss Marshall, this seems a most odd time for you to call. Hardly business hours. But let's not bother about that. You see you worked for Jimmy Benson. I never saw you in his office.

[Gillian Marsh]

I worked for him at his home. I was a private secretary.

[Max Corbett]

I see. Then you must know all his correspondence. Tell me Ms. Marsh, have you ever seen this note before?

[Gillian Marsh]

James Beresford's writing shall see you Beaton Square call on Tuesday evening exactly at nine.

[Dr. John Watson]

What?

[Max Corbett]

What, what's it? Tuesday evening. No, no, no, no, it says Thursday evening.

[Gillian Marsh]

Oh no, no you're mistaken. I know this writing. It's Tuesday.

[Max Corbett]

But, but that's Today I. I made all the preparations for Thursday. I'm going to Paris that morning. It can't be Tuesday. It can't be.

[Gillian Marsh]

It's 8 o' clock and Jimmy will be here within the hour. I'll leave you to face him. Mr. Corpus.

[Max Corbett]

No. No, don't go. Please don't.

[Gillian Marsh]

I have to think.

[Max Corbett]

You see, I've been having the strangest hallucinations. I've been seeing Bennesford ever since he died. He's been standing on street corners at the club, getting out of carriages, just standing there, haunting me. And now he's supposed to be coming here within the hour. Are you sure that notes has.

[Gillian Marsh]

Tuesday is. Of course. Look for yourself. How odd. Of course, even the signature could be misinterpreted. Instead of Jimmy, it could be. Gilly idolized that before.

[Max Corbett]

Before?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You mean you.

[Max Corbett]

You've seen this note before? Not. Tell me. Tell me all about it. I pay you well. Anything. Anything you. You can do to put my mind at rest. Just. Just prove this is a stupid, malicious joke and I'll set my mind at rest. Please. Please help me.

[Gillian Marsh]

You really are frightened, aren't you? You frightened that the doorbell will ring and through that door will walk the ghost of James Beresford to torment your soul. Well, all right. I'll set your crooked little mind at rest. No one will be coming here.

[Max Corbett]

How do you know?

[Gillian Marsh]

Because I wrote that note. I wrote it after he died. You see, I wasn't his secretary. I am his niece. Uncle Jimmy was one of the best. You had him hunted down and you were glad when he was killed. Well, I wanted to make you suffer, as he must have suffered. I could imitate Uncle's handwriting. I did it because I. I wanted to see what kind of a man you were. I've proved it. You are a cheap coward.

[Max Corbett]

Oh, is that so? Indeed. Well, don't think that a chit of a girl like you is going to show me up. You think you've taught me a lesson? Well, I'll teach you now. Here and now. I'll show you to start with.

[Mrs. Hudson]

How dare you? How dare. Just stop it.

[Max Corbett]

Oh, she'll be up, will you? You want to go? Vixen.

[Gillian Marsh]

Over here.

[Max Corbett]

How's this?

[Sherlock Holmes]

Right, that's enough, Corbett. Leave her alone. Watson, take care of him.

[Dr. John Watson]

Come on.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Come on.

[Max Corbett]

You want me to deal with you?

[Sherlock Holmes]

You all right, Ms. Mount?

[Gillian Marsh]

Yes, yes, I'm all right.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Maximilian. Just what does all this mean, Abigail?

[Gilpin]

Well.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Ha.

[Max Corbett]

How did you. What? Why are you here?

[Mrs. Hudson]

I was asked by Mr. Sherlock Holmes to come Here this evening. He said I would learn something to my advantage. I seem to have done so. I'm leaving. I have nothing to say to you now and I shall have nothing to.

[Gillian Marsh]

Say to you in the future.

[Max Corbett]

But I can explain all this. I can explain it's a trick.

[Gillian Marsh]

Perhaps, Ms. Stratton, you would like to take this note. It will explain that what you have seen was premeditated. Max always plans everything down to the last detail.

[Mrs. Hudson]

Thank you. I'm grateful I found out the worst before it's too late. Good night, gentlemen. Goodbye, Maximilian.

[Dr. John Watson]

It wasn't until we were back at Baker street that Holmes confessed his part in the unmasking of Max Corbett. He puffed at his pipe with satisfaction.

[Sherlock Holmes]

You see, I agreed with Gillian Marsh. Something should be done to curb this man's ambitions. So I plotted with her to show up the weaker side of his nature. I even impersonated James Beresford. I'm quite good at disguises, you know, and could well remember how the man looked and walked. Then, when we had preyed upon his mind long enough, we brought things to a climax, making sure that his fiance, Abigail Stratton, saw what kind of a man he really was. Rumors will spread. After this, I should think it will be many long days before he dares show his face. At the Diogenes Club, for instance. Hardly a criminal case, I agree, but one where I think justice has been done. Don't you agree, Watson?

[Dr. John Watson]

Oh, Joe, yes, very clever. Although perhaps not entirely ethical.

[Sherlock Holmes]

Well, the man is defeated in a much more gracious manner than he has defeated many others. My conscience is quite clear.

[Dr. John Watson]

Listen again next Sunday to the stories of Sherlock Holmes. With Graham Armitage as Holmes and Kerry Jordan as Dr. Watts.

[Expedia]

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