Sherlock Holmes: Adventure of the Devil's Foot (Encore) (EP4680)

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio – "Sherlock Holmes: Adventure of the Devil's Foot (Encore)" (EP4680)

Introduction

In this special encore presentation of "Sherlock Holmes: Adventure of the Devil's Foot," host Adam Graham transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with a gripping adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's eerie tale. Recorded in 2019, this episode features Tom Conway stepping into the iconic role of Sherlock Holmes, joined by Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson. Despite the episode's age, Adam Graham ensures its timeless appeal with insightful commentary and engaging storytelling.

Plot Overview

Setting the Scene

The story unfolds in March 1897 when Sherlock Holmes, weakened by a harsh winter, retreats to a secluded cottage near Poldhu Bay on the Cornish peninsula for recuperation. Dr. Watson describes the bleak and foreboding surroundings, emphasizing Holmes's affinity for such mysterious locales.

The Tregennis Tragedy

A distressed Mortimer Tregennis arrives at Holmes's cottage, recounting a horrifying incident that befell his family. According to Mortimer, after a peaceful evening of playing cards, he discovered his sister Brenda dead in her chair and his brothers Owen and George incapacitated with expressions of sheer terror. The family's servant, Mrs. Porter, also suffered a nervous collapse upon witnessing the scene.

Mortimer Tregennis [09:00]: "Brenda lay back stone dead in her chair and my two brothers sat on each side of her laughing and shouting and singing. The senses stricken clean out of them."

Investigating the Crime Scene

Holmes and Watson inspect the card room, noting the open window and extinguished candles. Holmes deduces that no forced entry occurred, and all family members were alone at the time of the incident. They rule out supernatural causes, despite local superstitions about the "Devil's Foot" lurking in the bay.

Dr. Watson [15:11]: "But Holmes, that would be supernatural."

The Arrival of Dr. Sterndale

Dr. Leon Sterndale, a lion hunter and explorer, arrives unexpectedly, expressing his concern over the Tregennis family's fate. His timely appearance raises suspicions, especially when Holmes later discovers inconsistencies in Sterndale's alibi.

Dr. Leon Sterndale [16:14]: "I've come to you about the tragedy to Danny Walther. The police are utterly at a loss. You have a keener brain."

Unraveling the Mystery

Holmes meticulously examines the evidence, including a peculiar red-brown powder found at the base of a lamp. He hypothesizes that the powder is a rare poison known as "powdered pes diable," capable of inducing extreme fear and insanity.

Tom Conway (Holmes) [22:38]: "I believe we have a sample of that poison in the brown powder spilled on the base of the lamp."

In a bold move, Holmes conducts an experiment by burning the powder, revealing its toxic effects and confirming his suspicions about its role in the tragedy. Confronted with the evidence, Dr. Sterndale confesses to murdering Mortimer Tregennis out of jealousy and unrequited love for Brenda.

Dr. Leon Sterndale [27:37]: "He admitted it before I. Before he died. Mr. Holmes, I've been in love with Brenda Tregennis for many years."

Host Commentary

Upon the episode's conclusion, Adam Graham lauds the adaptation for its faithful representation of suspense and terror, commending the sound design that enhances the dramatic atmosphere. He points out a possible cameo by Jay Novello as the murderous brother, adding depth to the performance despite the lack of explicit credits.

Adam Graham [32:32]: "I do have to say this may be one of Holmes's least advisable investigative decisions, but I guess it all worked out. Overall I thought it was an enjoyable episode."

Listener Feedback

Adam Graham shares enthusiastic listener comments, highlighting appreciation for the revival of classic series like "Pete Kelly's Blues" and admiration for actors like Jack Webb. Additionally, he acknowledges interesting trivia contributed by listeners, such as the connection between Dick Cathcart and Peggy Lennon from the Lennon Sisters.

Joan [N/A]: "Jack Webb has always been one of my favorite actors and he has a way about him when he plays a part that makes one want more."

Conclusion

"Sherlock Holmes: Adventure of the Devil's Foot (Encore)" masterfully captures the essence of old-time radio detective dramas. With compelling performances, a chilling mystery, and insightful narration, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes. Adam Graham’s adept hosting further enriches the listening experience, making it a must-listen for mystery aficionados and nostalgia seekers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Atmospheric Setting: The secluded Cornish peninsula provides a perfect backdrop for the unfolding mystery.
• Complex Characters: Dr. Sterndale’s transformation from a concerned explorer to the antagonist adds depth to the narrative.
• Intricate Plotting: Holmes’s methodical approach to solving the case underscores his legendary deductive skills.
• Engaging Presentation: The adaptation’s sound design and performances effectively bring the suspenseful story to life.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Watson [07:04]: "That old death trap with its fringe of black cliffs and surge-swept reefs in every direction."
• Tom Conway (Holmes) [14:36]: "If that should prove to be the case, I fear I shall be of very little assistance, Mr. Tregennis."
• Dr. Leon Sterndale [27:36]: "I have been in love with Brenda Tregennis for many years."

Final Thoughts

This encore episode not only delivers a captivating mystery but also showcases the timeless appeal of Sherlock Holmes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to old-time radio dramas, "Adventure of the Devil's Foot" offers a thrilling journey into the macabre and the mysterious, expertly guided by Adam Graham.

Transcript

[Tom Conway]

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[Adam Graham]

From Boise, Idaho, this is your host Adam Graham. As I'm taking a recording break, please enjoy this special encore presentation. Please note this episode was recorded in 2019, so any offers or information in the episode may not be valid unless they're reflected on the Great detectives [e-mail] now on with our podcast. Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio. From Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham. If you have a comment, email it to me. Box13greatdetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and become one of our friends on Facebook facebook.com RadioDetectives Today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners and you can become one of our ongoing patreon [e-mail] and I want to welcome Joe as our latest Patreon supporter at the Master detective level of $15 or more per month. Thanks so much for Joe. You can also send one time donations to support.greatdetectives.net through the Zell app to [e-mail] or by mail to AdamGraham, P.O. box 15913, Boise, ID 83715. Well, now it's time for us to continue our Listener's Choice countdown and number 19 in the listener's Choice poll in the Standard division is Sherlock Holmes, starring Tom Conway. Conway succeeded Basil rathbone for the 1946-47 series of Sherlock Holmes, which aired over ABC. Nigel Bruce continued on as Dr. Watson and we played all these episodes back in season two. For today's program, I actually chose an adaptation of a Holmes story that I remembered liking quite a bit and I think we will enjoy as well. The original air Date on This one is January 13th of 1947 and this one is the Adventure of the Devil's Foot.

[Joseph Bell]

Kremel Hair Tonic and Kremel Shampoo present the New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starring Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson and Tom Conway as Sherlock Holmes. Now suppose we begin by calling on Mr. Holmes, biographer and friend, the genial Dr. Watson. We find him in his comfortable fire lit study, leaning back in his easy chair, ready to begin his story. The fire feels good tonight, doesn't it, Dr. Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Indeed it does, but. Sit down, Mr. Bell. Sit down and let's get on with the story.

[Joseph Bell]

You are in a hurry, aren't you?

[Dr. Watson]

Well, I suppose I am. As a matter of fact, the adventure I'm going to, it was one of the most gruesome experiences I ever hoped to encounter. Perhaps I'd better not tell it. After all, it brings up memories.

[Joseph Bell]

Come now, Dr. Watson. You're not going back on us now. You promised last week to tell us what was the name of the story?

[Dr. Watson]

The Adventure of the Devil's Foot. Oh, the Cornish horror. The very thought of it makes my blood run cold.

[Joseph Bell]

I can hardly wait, Dr. Watson. But first, men, I'd like to remind you about this famous modern trend in hair grooming which is preferred among top flight executives and America's most successful men. It's called Kremel Hair Tonic. One of the many reasons Kremel has become such a nationwide favorite is that it never plasters the hair down with sticky goo which makes your hair and scalp feel so dirty. It never gives hair that old fashioned greasy patent leather look. You see, Kremel is a very highly specialized hair tonic. It contains a unique and utterly different combination of hair grooming ingredients which is found in no other hair tonic. That's why Kremel keeps unruly hair so neatly in place. Longer with such a handsome, healthy looking luster. What I especially like about Kremel is that after you use it, you can run your hand back over your hair and your hair never feels sticky or dirty. No greasy film comes off on your hand. Yet Kremel hair keeps hair in perfect order throughout the busiest day. Always looking so handsome and well groomed. K R E M L Kremel hair tonic. Now Dr. Watson, how about the Devil's Foot or the Cornish Horath?

[Dr. Watson]

It was the spring of the year 1897. Holmes Iron Constitution had shown some signs of giving way due to a particularly arduous and nerve wracking winter in March of that year, Dr. Moore Agar of Harley street gave positive injunctions that Holmes get out into the country for a protracted rest. Well, the third week in March found us settled in a small cottage near Poldhu Bay at the further extremity of the Cornish peninsula.

[Joseph Bell]

Isn't that rather a bleak country for convalescent Dr. Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

Bleak is putting it mildly. I've never known such grim surroundings, but it suited Holmes admirably. He seemed to blossom in that weird and foreboding fog swept district.

[Joseph Bell]

Just his natural perversionist. I Suppose.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I dare say. Our little whitewashed cottage stood on a grassy headland. From its windows we looked down upon the whole sinister semicircle of Mount's Bay. That old death trap with its fringe of black cliffs and surge swept reefs in every direction. There were traces of some vanished race which had left as its sole record strange monuments of stone. Holmes spent most of his time pottering round these weird ruins. Everything was going along peacefully until one morning our simple healthy routine was violently interrupted and we were precipitated into the middle of a series of gruesome and nerve shattering events.

[Tom Conway]

Quite a surf this morning, eh Watson? You can see the spray flung up against our windows and we're a good hundred feet above sea level. I don't think I shall venture out today. Hmm, bad weather. Old boy is certainly lashing himself into a fine frenzy.

[Dr. Watson]

What do you mean the old boy, Holmes?

[Tom Conway]

The devil, Watson. The devil himself.

[Dr. Watson]

What are you raving about?

[Tom Conway]

Didn't I tell you that the natives hereabouts refer to that seething death trap down there as the Devil's cauldron? They think the old gentleman himself lives there.

[Dr. Watson]

How unsettling.

[Tom Conway]

Yes, a very interesting superstition. You know Watson, this locality is supposed to have been the last resort of devil worship in England.

[Dr. Watson]

Really?

[Tom Conway]

Many scientists believe that those huge prehistoric monuments of stone were part of a temple given over to the Prince of Darkness Republic.

[Dr. Watson]

Bastards.

[Tom Conway]

I don't know. It's as logical as most of the theories that endeavor to explain their existence. The superstition goes on to say that when the devil was finally driven from his temple he took refuge in the bay down there. Yes, they claim that on stormy nights you can hear his hoof beats as he races up and down the rocks.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, what are you trying to do? Give me a case of nerves?

[Tom Conway]

Hello, what's this? What's this? Someone is running up our path, his cloak clapping about like a giant bat.

[Dr. Watson]

Why it's that Tregennis fellow, the one who boards with the vicar.

[Tom Conway]

Mortimer Tregennis, eh? I wonder what's happened. Face as white as a sheet. Couldn't look more upset if he'd seen bills above himself. Open the door, Watson.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Mr. Holmes. Thank heaven I find you at home. The most terrible thing has happened. I can scarcely believe it.

[Tom Conway]

Sit down my dear fellow, sit down. That's better. Now perhaps you can tell us what has happened.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

My family, my sister, we were playing cards.

[Tom Conway]

Slowly now, take your time.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

My family, my sister and my two brothers. It's too terrible. Why just last night I was with them at the house. Tredanic warfare it's called. All well and happy. We played cards and now without warning.

[Tom Conway]

I can't believe it. Easy Trekin. It's easy, there's a good fellow.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

I. I left them last night. My sister Brenda, my two brothers, Owen and George.

[Tom Conway]

What time was that?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

The clock in the church steeple over polo was chiming. 10:00 as I closed the front door behind me. I'd left them all in the card room laughing and in good spirits. And this morning being an early riser, I was out taking a walk before breakfast when Dr. Richards overtook me in his carriage with the news that he'd been sent for and a most urgent call from Tredaric Warfare. Something terrible had happened to my family. I jumped in beside him and he whipped up the horses.

[Tom Conway]

And what did you find?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Oh Mr. Holmes, it was terrible.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Ghastly.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

My two brothers and my sister there in the card room just as I had left them. But what a change, what a ghastly change.

[Tom Conway]

Yes.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Brenda lay back stone dead in her chair and my two brothers sat on each side of her laughing and shouting and singing. The senses stricken clean out of them. And all three of them, my poor dead sister and my two demented brothers retained upon their faces an expression of ghastly horror, a convulsion of terror.

[Dr. Watson]

How terrible.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Yes. Dr. Richards was so overcome at the sight that he fell fainting into a chair.

[Tom Conway]

Anyone else in the house besides your sister and brothers?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Only Mrs. Porter, the old housekeeper.

[Tom Conway]

I presume it was she who found them this morning?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Yes, she always goes through the house in the mornings, adding it out before the family comes down. When she reached the card room the shock was too much for her. She's had a nervous collapse. We had to put her to bed.

[Dr. Watson]

No wonder.

[Tom Conway]

An exceptional case. Most exceptional.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

That's what we thought. We could find. No traces of strangers in or around the house. Nothing was stolen, nothing touched. The vicar believes you are the only one who can solve the case, Mr. Holmes. He insisted I come to you.

[Tom Conway]

I shall be only too glad to handle the matter, of course. But first I must ask you a few questions.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Anything Mr. Holmes, anything.

[Tom Conway]

To begin with Mr. Tregennis, why do you live with a vicar separated from your family?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Well as a matter of fact we had a slight argument a few years ago about some property.

[Tom Conway]

It was.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

But that was all settled long ago. We were on the best of terms.

[Tom Conway]

Now Mr. Tregennis, about last night, do you recall anything, anything at all that was out of the ordinary?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

There was one thing that occurs to me. As we sat at the card table, my back was to the window. George was facing me. Suddenly I saw him look hard over my shoulder out of the window. I turned quickly and just for a moment I thought I caught a glimpse of something, something moving.

[Tom Conway]

Man or animal?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

I don't quite know. My brother said he had the same feeling. It's uncanny, that's what it is. Something came into that room and that something killed my sister and dashed the light of reason from my brother's mind. Something devilish it was.

[Tom Conway]

If that should prove to be the case, I fear I shall be of very little assistance, Mr. Trennis. But short of wrestling with this satanic majesty, I think perhaps we can solve your problem. Come, Watson. We'd best go down to Trenic Water at once.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

This is the house, Mr. Holmes.

[Tom Conway]

Whose carriage is this coming down the drive with the blinds down?

[Dr. Watson]

There's somebody in it. Listen.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

My brothers, my poor brothers. It's Dr. Richard's carriage. He's taking them to Helston Asylum. It's too awful. My poor brother.

[Tom Conway]

Easy, Tregennis, easy. Pull yourself together.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

I. I'll do my best.

[Dr. Watson]

Good man.

[Tom Conway]

Which are the windows of the card room?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

This one here.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, look out, Holmes, you've upset the washing can.

[Tom Conway]

Dear, dear, how clumsy of me. Sorry, Tregennis, I'm afraid I've drenched your boots.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

No matter, Mr. Holmes, no matter. Shall we go in?

[Tom Conway]

Yes. I have seen all I need to see out here.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

This way. The card room is over here.

[Tom Conway]

Do you notice anything, Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

No, I can't say that I do.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

This is the card room.

[Tom Conway]

I see the window's still open. The housekeeper left it that way, I presume.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

Yes. She says it was locked on the inside when she came in.

[Tom Conway]

Quite so. I think we may close it now.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll do it, Holmes.

[Tom Conway]

No, let me. Candles quite gutted out? Yes. Cards still on the table? They had not risen from their chairs, I take it. And you left at 10. That sets the hour of death at some time before 11. Fire burned out. Why? Fire? Had they always a fire in this small room on a spring evening?

[Mortimer Tregennis]

It was cold and damp last night, Mr. Holmes. The fire was lit shortly after my arrival.

[Tom Conway]

I see. Well, that seems to be about all. No disturbance of any kind.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, come along, Holmes, come along. The room gives me the jumps. There's something about the atmosphere. Although death was still hovering in the air.

[Tom Conway]

I wonder. Come Watson. We will return to our cottage. Should anything occur to me, Mr. Tregennis, I shall communicate. It won't do, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

It Won't do.

[Tom Conway]

All the facts are negative.

[Dr. Watson]

Do you think Mr. De Ganis account of his actions last night was truthful?

[Tom Conway]

Quite, Watson, quite. You remember the incident of this spilt watering can? I did that to obtain an impression of his foot.

[Dr. Watson]

I take it you succeeded?

[Tom Conway]

I did. With that print as a sample I was able to trace his movements last night. His story is correct. He left the house at about 10, went straight back to the vicarage and did not return. Nor did anyone else enter or leave that house.

[Dr. Watson]

Then it must have been the man or animal they thought they saw in the bushes. He must have returned and frightened them to death.

[Tom Conway]

There was no such man or animal. Watson. Last night was a dark night. Anyone who had the wish to frighten these people would be compelled to put his face against the glass before he could be seen. Well there is a three foot flower border outside the card room window. But there are absolutely no footprints there. Yes, but that means Mr. Tregenny's sister and her two brothers were alone when death struck the sister down and drove the brothers insane.

[Dr. Watson]

But Holmes, that would be supernatural.

[Tom Conway]

I hope not. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Look. Look, here comes another visitor up our path. Stranger this time. Big savage looking fella.

[Tom Conway]

That, my dear Watson, is none other than the famous Dr. Leon Sterndale.

[Dr. Watson]

Sterndale? The lion hunter and explorer?

[Tom Conway]

Exactly.

[Dr. Watson]

What's he doing in this neighbourhood?

[Tom Conway]

Oh, I've heard he owns a little cottage about five miles down the coast. They tell me he lives there absolutely by himself when he isn't off on one of his expeditions. Never mind Watson, I'll do the honors myself. Come in. Dr. Sterndale. Come in. Mr. Holmes. Yes, and this is my friend, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

How do you do?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

How do you do, Mr. Holmes? I've come to you about the tragedy to Danny Walther. The police are utterly at a loss. You have a keener brain.

[Tom Conway]

Pardon me, Dr. Sterndale, but why are you so concerned in this affair?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Well you see, during my many residences in this locality I've come to know the family of Tregennis very well.

[Tom Conway]

I see.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Their. Their horrible fate has been a great shock to me, Mr. Holmes.

[Tom Conway]

I'm so sorry.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

As a matter of fact I was on my way to Africa, had got as far as Plymouth when the news reached me this morning. I came straight back to help in the inquiry.

[Tom Conway]

But that would make you lose your ship. One sail for Africa this afternoon if I'm not mistaken.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

I can take the next.

[Tom Conway]

When did you last see the Tregennis family, Dr. Sterndale?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

I saw Brenda, Mr. Guinness, three days ago. Just as I was leaving for Plymouth.

[Tom Conway]

Oh, so you have been in Plymouth for the last three days?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Yes, in Plymouth.

[Tom Conway]

But how did you get the news so quickly? Surely the Plymouth papers didn't carry an account of the matter. In this morning's edition I received a telegram. Telegram? Might I ask from whom?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

You're very inquisitive, Mr. Holmes.

[Tom Conway]

It is my business, Dr. Sterndale.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Very well. The telegram was sent by the vicar, Mr. Roundcast.

[Tom Conway]

I see.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

And now, Mr. Holmes, have you reached any conclusions?

[Tom Conway]

Conclusions? No, that would be a trifle premature. But I have every hope of bringing this matter to a satisfactory termination. Satisfactory to me, that is.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Would you mind telling me if your suspicions point in any particular direction?

[Tom Conway]

I. I do not feel that this is the moment to answer that question, Dr. Sterndale.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

And I see that I've been wasting my time. I need not prolong this visit. Good afternoon, gentlemen.

[Dr. Watson]

Close mouthed fellow. Dr. Sternberg, isn't he, Holme?

[Tom Conway]

He told me more than he realized, Watson. But he knows even more.

[Dr. Watson]

How could he if he was in Plymouth?

[Tom Conway]

But was he, Watson? That statement is something for us to look into.

[Joseph Bell]

In just a moment we'll rejoin Sherlock Holmes as he endeavors to solve the strange mystery of pedantic wather. But first, men. Remember, if you want to keep your hair handsome and healthy looking, one of the first requisites is a hygienic scalp. So why settle for just any hairdressing when you can enjoy the extra advantages of a highly specialized hair tonic like Kremel? Kremel contains a special combination of hair grooming ingredients which is found in no other hair tonic. This is why it keeps unruly hair neatly in place, longer, with a rich, healthy looking luster. Yet Kremel never gives hair that cheap, greasy patent leather look. It never leaves hair feeling sticky, gummy or dirty. Your hair and scalp always look and feel so clean with Kremel. And if your hair is so dry it breaks and falls when you comb it, start using Kremel at once. Let it make your hair feel softer, more pliable and look as if it had some body to it. Kremel is also fine to lubricate a dry scalp. At the same time it removes dandruff flakes. A quick massage with Kremel helps stimulate the cutaneous circulation of the scalp. Notice how alive, how invigorated your scalp feels. So for better groomed hair, a more hygienic scalp, change to Kremel at once. Buy a bottle of Kremel at any drug counter. Ask for an application at your barbershop K R E M L Kremel hair tonic.

[Dr. Watson]

I say Holmes, must you go on smoking that foul pipe? The atmosphere is so thick I can hardly see across the room as it is. Oh dear, I feel depressed. Who knows what evil thing is talking abroad in this neighborhood.

[Tom Conway]

Light the lamp Watson. It's the gathering twilight that makes it gloomy.

[Dr. Watson]

Rubbish. Look here Holmes, what about that Dr. Sterndale? Do you think he did it?

[Tom Conway]

No Watson. I've been in communication with his Plymouth Hotel. His story was correct. He had been there for the past three days and he did receive a telegram from the vicar this morning.

[Dr. Watson]

He couldn't possibly have had anything to do with the Tregennis tragedy last night.

[Tom Conway]

Quite. I didn't think he had a connection with the tragedy. But there is a connection with Nahuat.

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Holmes. Oh Mr. Holmes.

[Tom Conway]

Open the door Watson. Ah my dear vicar, come in, come in. Dear me. You look as though you'd seen a ghost.

[Dr. Watson]

It's tracked him down. The curse of the family. He's dead.

[Tom Conway]

Dead?

[Dr. Watson]

With that same look of terror on his face.

[Tom Conway]

Who's dead?

[Dr. Watson]

Mortimer Trek Henness in his study at the vicarage. Great Scott. My servant found him there sitting beside.

[Tom Conway]

His table, his face turned toward the.

[Dr. Watson]

Window and distorted with that same convulsion of fear that marked the features of his sister.

[Tom Conway]

Oh my poor Paris. Satan himself is loose among us. We are devil ridden Mr. Holmes. Devil ridden. This was his study Mr. Holmes. Depressing atmosphere. It was worse. I have the servant. Open the window. He's quite ill from shock poor fellow.

[Dr. Watson]

What a terrible look on Tregennis face Holmes.

[Tom Conway]

The whole body is contorted and convulsed in a very paroxysm of fear. You've never seen death in this form before Watson?

[Dr. Watson]

No, never.

[Tom Conway]

You know of no poison that would have this effect?

[Dr. Watson]

Good heavens no.

[Tom Conway]

Hmm. Lamp is lit. It's burning over an hour. Notes the oil consumed yet darkness has just set in. Did anyone call at the vicarage this afternoon? No, I was out myself but my servant says he let no one in.

[Dr. Watson]

Then Tregennis was alone when he.

[Tom Conway]

I wonder. The window was shut at the time of his death but the lamp was lit. Curious. The window, let's see. Yes by Jove, I think I found something.

[Dr. Watson]

What's that you're putting in your pocket Holmes?

[Tom Conway]

And the lamp of course the lamp. Notice this powder which has been spilled on the base of the lamp. Red brown powder. Give me an envelope Watson. I must have these specks of powder.

[Dr. Watson]

Why are you so excited about the powder Holmes?

[Tom Conway]

Because it contains the solution of our mystery, Watson. It is the source and the solution.

[Dr. Watson]

Holmes, you haven't touched your supper. What a foul night. The wind's rising again.

[Tom Conway]

Oh, have another cup of tea and be quiet.

[Dr. Watson]

I don't want to be quiet, I want to talk. I'm tired of waiting here listening to that blasted wind and the roll of the water down there below. Why did you send for Dr. Sterndale?

[Tom Conway]

Because he is an authority on obscure African poisons.

[Dr. Watson]

Poisons? Why are you interested in poisons, Watson?

[Tom Conway]

There are two striking points in common in both cases under observation. In both cases the atmosphere of the room had a curious effect on the persons who first entered it. The housekeeper and the vicar's servant were both overcome, as was the doctor who was called in.

[Dr. Watson]

That's right. I hadn't thought of that. The room was still stuffy when we entered it.

[Tom Conway]

Right. And in each case there was combustion going on in the room. The fire in the first case, the lamp in the second. And the lamp was not necessary. It was still daylight when it was lit.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, but I still don't see.

[Tom Conway]

Something was burned in each case which produced an atmosphere causing strange toxic effects. An unknown poison.

[Dr. Watson]

Good heavens.

[Tom Conway]

I believe we have a sample of that poison in the brown powder spilled on the base of the lamp.

[Dr. Watson]

How are you going to prove it?

[Tom Conway]

I'm going to burn some of that powder. Notice its effect. Just a small pinch of powder. Yes. Perhaps you'd better leave the room, Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

And leave you alone in here? Certainly not.

[Tom Conway]

I warn you, it's risky.

[Dr. Watson]

Confound that wind. Come along, come along. Let's get it on with it and get it over.

[Tom Conway]

Very well. Place your chair opposite mine. Then we can watch each other for developments. If anything alarming happens, we can end the experiment.

[Dr. Watson]

All right. Come on. I'm ready.

[Tom Conway]

Good. I put a pinch of the powder into our lamp.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh, I say, what a. What a filthy smell.

[Tom Conway]

Mmm, musky. Subtle, nauseous.

[Dr. Watson]

Listen to the wind. Holmes. I'm afraid. I don't know why. That wind. I can feel my hair rising. Holmes, do you see it? That cloud bank willing, black and sinister. It's monstrous. It's concealing something, something too wicked to imagine. Holmes, it's coming nearer and nearer. Can't you smell it? Sulphur and brimstone.

[Tom Conway]

You hear that, Holmes?

[Dr. Watson]

It's hoofbeats. Hoof beats. I know what it is. I can see it. I can't stand this. It's too terrible.

[Tom Conway]

Holmes, watch it for the life of heaven. Don't give in.

[Dr. Watson]

Don't breathe.

[Tom Conway]

I'll smash the window.

[Dr. Watson]

I'll smash.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

That's better.

[Tom Conway]

Breathe in Watson, breathe it in. It's good clean air. Why Joe, what a narrow escape. I had no idea it was so powerful.

[Dr. Watson]

I thought I saw. I thought.

[Tom Conway]

I know. It's a poison that affects the nerve centers of the imagination. The strain is enough to kill a man or drive him crazy. Hello? There's someone knocking at the door.

[Dr. Watson]

Oh sir. So that's what I heard.

[Tom Conway]

There. Seems cleared out. Good thing there was a high wind. I'll close the shutters and draw the curtain. Watson, can you open the door now?

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, I think so. Sure. My, my knees are still shaky.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Good evening, Mr. Holmes. You sent for me?

[Tom Conway]

Yes, come in Dr. Sterndale, come in.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

You look rather pale, both of you.

[Tom Conway]

Yes, we've just been conducting a little experiment with the poison that killed Tregennis.

[Dr. Watson]

You have?

[Tom Conway]

Yes. Dr. Sterndale, perhaps you'd like to tell us why you killed Mortimer Tregennis.

[Mortimer Tregennis]

I?

[Tom Conway]

Preposterous.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

You can't prove it.

[Tom Conway]

No. Let me tell you how you did it. You came over to the vicarage late this afternoon. You didn't want anyone to know you'd visited Tregennis. He was to let you in himself. But how could you attract his attention? You brought some pebbles with you, pink pebbles from a heap beside your house. You threw these at the study window where you knew Tregennis was working. I found some of these pebbles on the windowsill. Tregennis came downstairs, let you in himself. You had a talk with him, made him light his lamp, placed a pinch of the poison powder in the flame and left.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

You're. You're right Mr. Holmes. I did kill Mortimer Treguinness. But I'm not guilty of the other atrocity, I swear I'm not.

[Tom Conway]

I believe you Dr. Sterndale. But you know who did it. Perhaps you'd better tell us about it.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Very well. It was Mortimer Tregennis.

[Dr. Watson]

What?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

He admitted it before I. Before he died. Mr. Holmes, I've been in love with Brenda Tregennis for many years. We were to have been married when my work in Africa was finished. I've lived so long in places where man is a law unto himself. It he killed Brenda in cold blood. He killed her. I have nothing else to live for. By heaven, I do it again.

[Tom Conway]

How did Mortimer Tregennis get hold of the poison? It was something unusual, almost unknown.

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Yes, it was powdered pes diable.

[Dr. Watson]

Pes diable? Devil's foot, eh?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Yes, a root found in Africa, shaped like a Foot. Half human, half goat like. I have the only specimen in England.

[Tom Conway]

And you showed it to Tregennis?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

Yes. He came over the other afternoon when I was packing. He was interested in my African curiosities. Particularly this powder. How he took it I can't say. I thought no more of the matter until I had received the vicar's telegram and learned how they died. I returned at once. I looking into the tragedy I was convinced Mortimer Tregennis was the murderer. That he'd done it to gain control of the family fortune. There was the crime. But what was to be his punishment? What jury would believe such a fantastic story? No, I decided to take the law into my own hands. Perhaps if you ever loved anyone you know how I felt.

[Tom Conway]

Dr. Standale, what were your plans when you set out for Plymouth?

[Dr. Leon Sterndale]

I had intended to bury myself in Central Africa. My work is only half finished.

[Tom Conway]

Go and finish the other half. Dr. Sterndale. I do not feel called upon to prevent you.

[Joseph Bell]

What A gruesome story, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

Yes, next to the famous Hound of the Baskerville adventure that was the most gruesome experience that we ever had.

[Joseph Bell]

There's just one thing I'd like to know. What did you think you saw in that cloud of smoke?

[Dr. Watson]

Mr. Bell, you will have to believe me when I tell you it was too horrible to mention. Just to think of it is enough to make my blood run cold.

[Joseph Bell]

Ladies and gentlemen, In a moment Dr. Watson will be back to tell us about next week's story. Girls, Powers models are famous for their beauty and charm. And one of their most outstanding characteristics is their glorious shining bright hair. Now here's how they keep it so shining. Powers models use Cremel shampoo. This amazing beautifying shampoo has been especially.

[Tom Conway]

Developed to actually glamour bathe each tiny strand of hair revealing all its natural glossy luster.

[Joseph Bell]

Yes, and don't forget Kremel shampoo is wonderful for washing children's hair too. Of course it is, because there are.

[Tom Conway]

No harsh caustics or chemicals in Kremel.

[Joseph Bell]

Shampoo and its luxurious active foam thoroughly cleanses scalp and hair of all loose.

[Tom Conway]

Dandruff as well as the dirt.

[Joseph Bell]

Girls. If you could only see how Powers models hair fairly radiates natural glossy highlights. I'm sure you'd want to try Kremel shampoo right away. You can get a bottle at any drug counter. K R E M L Kremel shampoo. Now Dr. Watson, what about next week?

[Dr. Watson]

Well now let me see. Next week. Next week I think I'll tell you about the adventure of the Unfortunate brides.

[Joseph Bell]

Sounds intriguing, Dr. Watson.

[Dr. Watson]

It was, Mr. Bell. It was indeed intriguing. It concerned a honeymoon in Scotland, a bridegroom who turned out to be a cold blooded and ruthless killer.

[Joseph Bell]

Tonight, Sherlock Holmes Adventure was adapted by Edith Miser from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story the Devil's Foot. Nigel Bruce appeared by permission of California Pictures. Tom Conway took through the courtesy of Eagle Lion Pictures. The Sherlock Holmes series is Produced by Tom McKnight. This is Joseph Bell speaking for Cremel Hair Tonic and Kremel Shampoo and inviting you to be with us next week at this same time when Dr. Watson will tell us about the case of the Unfortunate Bride. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, a very good adaptation of the story and I think it does a great job making it fit radio with the way that the sound is done on this, you know, it's really, really does bring home the suspense and the terror of the situation. I do have to say this may be one of Holmes least advisable investigative decisions, but I guess it all worked out. Overall I thought it was an enjoyable episode. And I also thought we heard because they don't give full cast on this, but I could have sworn we heard Jay Novello as the brother who actually committed the murder of his sister and drove his two brothers insane. That sounded like Novello's voice but without Credits can't be 100% sure. Alright, listener comments and feedback. And we have some comments on Pete Kelly's Blows. And we start with this from Joan. She writes, hi Adam, thank you for bringing back Pete Kelly's Blues. Even though it is a short series, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also enjoyed the movie. She also says Jack Webb has always been one of my favorite actors and he has a way about him when he plays a part that makes one want more. I hope you have a great day and week. Well, thank you so much, Joan. I appreciate your note. And then we have this from over on Facebook. Lawrence writes an interesting bit of trivia. Dick Cathart, who did the horn work for the show as well as for the movie and television production, was married to Peggy Lennon of the Lennon Sisters. They met while both of them were on the Lawrence Welk Show. He later became the sister's music coordinator when they left the Welk show to do their own with Jimmy Durante. Well, thanks so much for sharing, Lawrence. All right. Well that will do it for today. Join us back here tomorrow for Standby for Crime. And then next Monday we'll be announcing who was number 18 in the standard division, and you won't want to miss it. In the meantime, send your comments to box [e-mail]. follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and become one of our friends on Facebook. Facebook comradetectives From Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.