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Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet - Chapters Five, Six and Seven | Full Audiobook · Chapter by Chapter — The Lost Library

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Welcome back to another episodic audiobook presentation of
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Sherlock Holmes. In this series, each chapter
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brings the classic tales to life, unfolding the mystery,
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atmosphere, and adventure that have captivated readers for
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generations. Today's episode includes 3
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chapters. If you're enjoying the journey,
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be sure to like, follow, or subscribe to stay updated with
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each new release. Before we begin, a brief note.
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This presentation of Sherlock Holmes is a modernized retelling
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of the original Canon. The cases remain faithful to the
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stories that generations have loved, while the language and
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structure have been carefully refined to create a smoother,
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more immersive listening experience for today's audience.
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What you are about to hear is not a change to the mysteries
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themselves, but a restoration of their flow, allowing the world
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of Sherlock Holmes to unfold clearly for the modern ear.
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And now we return to the first case, Book 1A, Study in Scarlet,
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Chapter 5. Our advertisement brings a
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visitor. The morning's activities had
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taken a toll on my fragile health, leaving me exhausted by
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afternoon. After Holmes left for the
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concert, I stretched out on the sofa, hoping for a couple of
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hours of sleep. But sleep eluded me.
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My mind was too stirred by the day's events, and it teemed with
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strange thoughts and speculations each time I close
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my eyes. The grotesque baboon like face
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of the murdered man loomed before me.
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The sinister impression it left was so strong that I felt a
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reluctant gratitude towards whoever had removed him from
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this world. If ever a face reflected the
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deepest vice, it was surely that of Enoch J Drebber from
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Cleveland. Yet I understood that justice
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must prevail, and the victim's depravity did not excuse his
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murder in the eyes of the law. The more I pondered, the more
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remarkable Holmes's theory of poisoning seemed.
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I recalled how he had sniffed the man's lips, undoubtedly
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detecting something that sparked his suspicion.
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But if not poison, then what had caused the man's death, given
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there were no wounds or signs of strangulation?
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And whose blood was it that pooled so thickly on the floor?
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There were no indications of a struggle, nor did the victim
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possess any weapon with which he could have injured an attacker.
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As long as these questions remained unanswered, I knew
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sleep would be elusive for both homes and me.
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His calm, assured demeanour suggested he had already devised
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a theory that accounted for all the facts, though I couldn't
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begin to guess what it might be. He returned very late, so late
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that I realized the concert couldn't have occupied all his
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time. Dinner was already on the table
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when he finally arrived. It was magnificent, he said,
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taking his seat. Do you recall what Darwin says
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about music? He argues that the ability to
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create and appreciate music existed in humanity long before
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the development of speech. Perhaps that's why it influences
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us so profoundly. There are faint echoes in our
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souls from those ancient times when the world was young.
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That's quite a sweeping notion, I commented.
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One's ideas must be as expansive as nature if they are to
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interpret it, he replied. What's wrong?
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You don't seem quite yourself. This Brixton Rd. case has shaken
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you. To be honest, it has.
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I admitted I should be more resilient after my experiences
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in Afghanistan. I witnessed my fellow soldiers
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being brutally killed at my want, yet I kept my composure.
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I understand there's something about this mystery that captures
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the imagination. Without imagination, there is No
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Fear. Have you seen the evening paper?
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No, I haven't. It provides a decent account of
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the incident. However, it omits the detail
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that when the man was lifted, a woman's wedding ring fell to the
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floor. It's probably for the best that
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it doesn't mention it. Why is that?
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Take a look at this advertisement, he replied.
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I had it placed in every paper this morning right after the
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incident. He tossed the paper to me and I
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looked at the spot he indicated. It was the first listing in the
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found section on Brixton Road this morning, it read.
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A plain gold wedding ring was found on the road between the
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White Hart Tavern and Holland Grove.
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Inquire with Doctor Watson, 221B Baker Street, between 8:00 and
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9:00 this evening. Forgive me for using your name,
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he said. If I used my own, some of these
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fools would recognize it and try to interfere with the matter.
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That's fine, I replied. But if someone does respond, I
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don't have a ring. Oh, but you do, he said, handing
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me one. This will work perfectly.
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It's almost an exact match. And who do you think will
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respond to this ad? The man in the brown coat?
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Our rosy cheat friend with the square toed shoes.
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If he doesn't come himself, he'll send someone in his place.
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Wouldn't he find it too risky? Not at all.
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If my theory is correct, and I have every reason to believe it
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is, this man would rather take any risk than lose the ring.
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I suspect he dropped it while bending over Drebber's body and
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didn't notice at the time. After leaving, he realized it
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was missing and rushed back only to find the police already
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there. Thanks to his own mistake of
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leaving the candle burning. He had to act drunk to avoid
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suspicion when he showed up at the gate.
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Now put yourself in his shoes. As he thought it over, he must
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have considered that he might have lost the ring on the road
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after leaving the house. What would he do then?
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He'd eagerly scan the evening papers, hoping to see it listed
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among the found items. Naturally, his attention would
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be drawn to this. He'd be thrilled.
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Why would he suspect a trap? In his mind, there'd be no link
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between finding the ring and the murder.
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He would come. He will come.
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You'll see him within the hour. And then I inquired.
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Oh, leave that to me. Do you have any weapons?
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I have my old service revolver and a few cartridges.
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You should clean it and load it. He'll be a desperate man, and
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even though I'll catch him off guard, it's best to be prepared
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for anything. I went to my room and did as he
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suggested. When I returned with the pistol,
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the table was cleared and Holmes was absorbed in his favorite
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pastime, playing his violin. The plot thickens, he said as I
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entered. I've just received a reply to my
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telegram to America. My theory about the case is
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correct. And what is that?
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I asked eagerly. My violin could use new strings,
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he commented. Put your pistol in your pocket.
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When the man arrives, just talk to him normally.
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Leave the rest to me. Don't scare him by staring too
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intensely. It's 8:00 now.
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I noted, checking my watch. Yes, he should be here shortly.
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Open the door a bit. That's enough.
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Now place the key inside. Thank you.
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I found this peculiar old book at a stall yesterday.
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De jure Intergentes published in Latin in Liege in the lowlands
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back in 1642. Charles still had his head
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firmly attached when this little brown backed volume was printed.
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Who printed it? Philippe de Croix, whoever he
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was. On the flyleaf.
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In very faded ink it says Ex Libris Guliolmi White.
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I wonder who William White was? Probably some pedantic 17th
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century lawyer. His handwriting has a legal
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flair. Here comes our man, I think.
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As he spoke, the doorbell rang sharply.
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Sherlock Holmes rose quietly and adjusted his chair toward the
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door. We heard the servant move down
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the hallway, followed by the sharp click of the latch as she
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opened the door. Does Doctor Watson live here?
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Asked a voice that was clear but somewhat grating.
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We couldn't catch the servant's response, but the door closed
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and someone began to climb the stairs.
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The footsteps were uncertain and shuffled.
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My companion's face registered surprise as he listened.
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The steps approached slowly down the passage and there was a weak
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knock at the door. Come in.
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I called out at Mom invitation. Instead of the expected man of
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violence, a very old and wrinkled woman hobbled into the
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room. She seemed momentarily blinded
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by the sudden brightness of the light, and after dropping a
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curtsy, she stood blinking at us with her bleary eyes nervously
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fumbling in her pocket. With shaky fingers I glanced at
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my companion, whose face had taken on such a forlorn
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expression that it was all I could do to maintain my
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composure. The old woman pulled out an
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evening paper and pointed to our advertisement.
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It's this that brought me good gentlemen, she said, dropping
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another curtsy. A gold wedding ring on Brixton
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Road. It belongs to my girl Sally, who
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was married just a year ago. Her husband is a steward on a
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union boat and what he'd say if he came home to find her without
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her ring is beyond me. Him being short tempered at the
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best of times, especially when he's been drinking.
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If you please. She went to the circus last
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night with. Is that her ring?
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I asked. Thank the Lord.
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Exclaimed the old woman. Sally will be overjoyed tonight.
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That's the ring. And what is your address?
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I inquired, picking up a pencil. 13 Duncan St.
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Houndsditch, quite a distance from here.
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The Brixton Rd. doesn't run between any circus and
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Houndsditch. Sherlock Holmes interjected
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sharply. The old woman turned to him, her
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small red rimmed eyes scrutinizing.
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The gentleman. Asked for my address.
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She replied. Sally stays in lodgings at 3
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Mayfield Place, Peckham. And your name is?
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My name is Sawyer. Hers is Dennis, as she married
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Tom Dennis, a smart, tidy lad he is too, while at sea, and no
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steward in the company is more esteemed, but on shore with
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women and liquor shops. Here is your ring, Missus
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Sawyer. I interrupted, following a
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discreet signal from Holmes. It clearly belongs to your
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daughter, and I'm pleased to return it to its rightful owner.
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With many murmured blessings and expressions of gratitude, the
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old woman tucked it away in her pocket and shuffled down the
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stairs. As soon as she was gone,
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Sherlock Holmes leapt to his feet and dashed into his room.
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He returned moments later, wrapped in an Ulster and a
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cravat. I'll follow her, he said
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urgently. She must be an accomplice and
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will lead me to him. Wait up for me.
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The hall door had barely slammed shut behind our visitor before
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Holmes was already descending the stairs.
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Peering through the window, I watched her walk unsteadily
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along the opposite side, her pursuer trailing a short
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distance behind Either. His entire theory is flawed, I
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mused, or he's about to be LED straight to the core of the
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mystery. There was no need for him to ask
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me to stay awake. I knew I wouldn't be able to
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sleep until I learned the outcome of his venture.
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It was nearly 9 when he set out. I had no sense of how long he
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might be gone, but I sat resolutely, puffing on my pipe
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and leafing through. Henri Murges, Vie de Boe, M
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10:00 came and went, and I heard the maid's footsteps as she
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headed to bed. 11 struck and the more deliberate steps of the
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landlady passed my door bound for the same destination.
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It was almost midnight when I finally heard the sharp click of
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his key in the lock. The moment he entered, his
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expression told me he hadn't succeeded.
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Amusement and frustration seemed to vie for dominance until
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amusement won out and he broke into a hearty laugh.
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I wouldn't want the Scotland Yard fellows to know about this
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for anything. He exclaimed, dropping into his
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chair. I've teased them so much that
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they'd never let me live it down.
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But I can laugh because I know I'll get the better of them
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eventually. What happened next?
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I asked. Well, I don't mind sharing a
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story at my own expense. That woman had barely walked a
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short distance before she started limping, clearly
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struggling with sore feet. Soon enough, she stopped and
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flagged down a passing 4 Wheeler.
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I stayed close to catch the address, though I needn't have
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worried. She shouted it loud enough for
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anyone across the street to hear.
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Take me to 13 Duncan St. Hounds Ditch, she called out.
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This seemed promising, I thought, and after she settled
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inside, I discreetly hitched a ride on the back.
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That's a skill every detective should master.
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Off we went, rattling along until we reached the specified
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street. I jumped off before we arrived
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at the door and casually strolled down the street.
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I watched as the cab stopped. The driver got down and opened
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the door, waiting expectantly, but nothing happened.
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By the time I reached him, he was rummaging frantically
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through the empty cab, cursing with a colorful array of oaths.
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That was quite something to hear.
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There was no sign of the passenger, and I suspect it'll
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be a while before he sees his fare.
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When we inquired at #13 we discovered the house belonged to
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a respectable paper hanger named Kezik, and no one by the name of
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Sawyer or Dennis had ever been heard of there.
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You can't possibly mean. I exclaimed in disbelief that
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the frail, shaky old woman managed to leap from the cab
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while it was moving without either you or the driver
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noticing. Old woman, my foot.
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Sherlock Holmes retorted sharply.
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We were the fools to be so easily deceived.
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It had to be a young man, agile and a masterful actor at that.
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The disguise was flawless. He must have realized he was
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being tailed and used this trick to escape.
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This proves the man we're pursuing isn't as isolated as I
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thought. He has allies willing to take
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risks for him. Now.
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Doctor, you look exhausted. Take my advice and get some
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rest. I was indeed feeling quite
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drained, so I followed his suggestion.
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I left home, sitting by the dying fire, and deep into the
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night I could hear the haunting, mournful strains of his violin,
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knowing he was still deep in thought, unraveling the peculiar
17:57
mystery he had taken on. In Chapter 5, Holmes set a
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clever trap, placing a fake advertisement about the missing
18:06
wedding ring to draw out the man he suspects was at the crime
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scene. But instead of the suspect, A
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timid old woman arrived, only to vanish into the night after
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claiming the ring. Holmes, realizing too late that
18:21
she was a disguised accomplice, gives chase but is outwitted.
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Though the ruse failed, it confirms his theory that
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adversary is not only dangerous but has allies and a cunning
18:35
mind of his own. In the next chapter, Inspector
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Gregson steps into the spotlight, eager to prove his
18:43
worth. He delivers a confident theory
18:46
and makes an arrest. But Holmes isn't so easily
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convinced. As rival detectives race for
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answers, the case begins to twist in unexpected directions.
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Chapter 6. Tobias Gregson shows what he can
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do. The newspapers the following day
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were abuzz with what they called the Brixton Mystery.
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Each carried an extensive report on the incident, with some even
19:13
featuring editorials about it. I came across some details that
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were new to me in my scrapbook. I still keep numerous clippings
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and extracts related to the case.
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Here's a distilled version of a few of them.
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The Daily Telegraph noted that in the annals of crime, few
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tragedies have displayed such peculiar characteristics.
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The victim's German name, the lack of any other apparent
19:42
motive, and the ominous message scrawled on the wall all
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suggested the involvement of political refugees and
19:49
revolutionaries. Socialists had many factions in
19:53
America and it seemed the deceased had violated their
19:56
unwritten rules and was haunted down by them.
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The article, with a touch of levity, referenced the
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Vengaricht Aqua Tofana, the Carbonari, the Martianess de
20:08
Brinvilier, the Darwinian theory, the principles of
20:12
Malthus, and the Ratcliffe Hwy. murders, before concluding with
20:16
a warning to the government and a call for stricter surveillance
20:20
of foreigners in England. The Standard observed that such
20:24
lawless acts typically occurred under a liberal administration.
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They were attributed to the disturbance of the public's
20:31
mindset and the resulting erosion of authority.
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The deceased was an American gentleman who'd been living in
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the city for several weeks. He'd been staying at Madame
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Charpentier's boarding house on Torquay Terrace, Camberwell, and
20:48
was travelling with his private secretary, Mr. Joseph
20:51
Stangerson. On Tuesday the 4th, the two men
20:54
bid farewell to their landlady and set off for Houston Station,
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claiming they intended to catch the express train to Liverpool.
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They were last seen together on the platform.
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After that, nothing more was known until Mr. Drebber's body
21:10
was found in an empty house on Brixton Road, far from Houston.
21:14
How he ended up there and the circumstances of his death
21:18
remain shrouded in mystery. Stangerson's whereabouts are
21:23
still unknown. We are pleased to report that
21:26
Mister Lestrade and Mr. Gregson from Scotland Yard are on the
21:30
case and there is strong confidence that these esteemed
21:34
detectives will soon shed light on the situation.
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The Daily News noted that the crime was undoubtedly political.
21:44
The oppressive regimes and their disdain for liberalism on the
21:48
continent had driven many individuals to our shores,
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people who might have been exemplary citizens if not
21:55
embittered by their past experiences.
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Among these exiles, there existed A strict code of honor,
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violations of which were punishable by death.
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It is crucial to locate the Secretary Stangerson and gather
22:11
details about the deceased's lifestyle.
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A significant breakthrough was achieved with the discovery of
22:17
the address where he had been staying, a result entirely
22:21
credited to the sharpness and diligence of Mr. Gregson from
22:25
Scotland Yard. Sherlock Holmes and I perused
22:28
the morning notices together over breakfast and they seemed
22:32
to provide him with a good deal of amusement.
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I told you, no matter the outcome, Lestrade and Gregson
22:39
would claim success. That depends on the result.
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Oh, it hardly matters. If the culprit is apprehended,
22:49
it will be due to their efforts. If he escapes, it will be
22:53
despite them. It's a win win for them.
22:56
Whatever happens, they'll have their admirers.
23:00
A fool always finds a greater fool to admire him.
23:05
What on earth is happening? I exclaimed as the sound of many
23:09
footsteps echoed in the hall and on the stairs, accompanied by
23:12
our landlady's audible expressions of disapproval.
23:16
It's the Baker Street division of the detective police force,
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my companion said gravely. As he spoke, half a dozen of the
23:27
dirtiest and most ragged St. Urchins I'd ever seen burst into
23:31
the room. Attention.
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Holmes barked sharply, and the six grimy little rascals lined
23:38
up like a row of disreputable statuettes.
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From now on, Wiggins will report alone, and the rest of you must
23:47
wait outside. Have you found it, Wiggins?
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No, Sir, we haven't, one of the young lads replied.
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I didn't really think you would keep at it.
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Until you do, here are your wages.
24:00
He handed each of them a shilling.
24:02
Now off you go and bring back a better report next time.
24:07
He waved them off and they dash downstairs like a pack of rats.
24:12
They're high pitched voices echoing in the street moments
24:15
later. You can get more work out of one
24:18
of those little rascals than from a dozen officers.
24:22
Holmes observed. The mere presence of someone
24:24
official looking makes people clam up.
24:27
These kids though, they go everywhere and hear everything.
24:32
They're sharp as needles. All they need is a bit of
24:35
organization. Are you using them for this
24:38
Brixton case? I inquired.
24:41
Yes, there's something I need to find out.
24:44
It's just a matter of time. We're about to get some news
24:48
now, and in a big way. Here comes Gregson down the
24:52
road, looking positively radiant.
24:55
He's headed our way, I'm sure. Yes, he's stopping.
25:00
There he is. A sharp ring echoed through the
25:04
house and moments later the fair haired detective bounded up the
25:07
stairs, taking them three at a time, and burst into our sitting
25:11
room. My dear fellow.
25:15
He exclaimed, shaking Holmes's unresponsive hand with
25:19
enthusiasm. Congratulate me, I've made
25:23
everything as clear as day. I noticed a flicker of concern
25:28
Passover my companion's expressive face.
25:32
Do you mean you're on the right track?
25:34
He enquired. The right track?
25:38
Why? We've got the man locked up.
25:41
Gregson declared with pomp, rubbing his hands together and
25:45
puffing out his chest. What's his name?
25:48
Holmes asked Arthur Charpentier, sub Lieutenant in Her Majesty's
25:54
Navy. Gregson announced, his voice
25:57
swelling with pride. Sherlock Holmes sighed with
26:01
relief and allowed a smile to form.
26:05
Take a seat and try one of these cigars.
26:08
He offered. We're eager to hear how you
26:10
accomplished it. Would you like some whiskey and
26:13
water? I wouldn't mind, The detective
26:18
replied. The intense effort of the past
26:21
couple of days has worn me out. Not so much physically, you
26:25
understand, but the mental strain has been considerable.
26:30
You'll understand, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, since we're both engaged
26:34
in cerebral pursuits. You flatter me, Holmes replied
26:40
with a serious nod. Please share how you reach this
26:45
most satisfying conclusion. The detective settled into the
26:49
armchair, exhaling contentedly on his cigar.
26:54
Suddenly, he slapped his thigh, overcome with amusement.
26:59
The best part? He exclaimed, is that fool
27:02
Lestrade, who fancies himself so clever, is chasing the wrong
27:07
lead entirely. He's after the secretary
27:10
Stangerson, who is as innocent as a newborn.
27:14
I'm sure he's already apprehended him by now.
27:18
The thought amused Gregson so much that he laughed until he
27:22
nearly choked. And how did you uncover your
27:25
clue? I'll explain everything.
27:30
Of course, Doctor Watson, this is strictly confidential.
27:34
Our initial challenge was tracing this American's
27:37
background. Some might have waited for
27:40
responses to their ads or for people to come forward with
27:44
information. That's not how Tobias Gregson
27:47
operates. Do you recall the hat found
27:50
beside the deceased? Yes, Holmes affirmed.
27:53
From John Underwood and Sons, 129 Camberwell Road.
27:59
Gregson appeared deflated. I didn't realize you caught
28:04
that, he admitted. Have you visited them?
28:08
No. Ah, Gregson exclaimed, visibly
28:13
relieved. You should never overlook any
28:16
opportunity, no matter how insignificant it seems to a
28:21
great mind. Nothing is insignificant, Holmes
28:25
replied with a touch of gravitas.
28:27
Well, I went to Underwood and inquired if they had sold a hat
28:32
matching that size and description.
28:35
He checked his records and found it immediately.
28:38
The hat had been sent to a Mr. Drebber who was staying at
28:42
Charpentier's boarding establishment on Torquay
28:45
Terrace. That's how I got his address.
28:48
Smart, very smart, Sherlock Holmes murmured.
28:53
I then visited Madame Charpentier, the detective
28:57
continued. She seemed very pale and
29:00
troubled. Her daughter was there as well,
29:03
a remarkably striking young woman.
29:06
Her eyes were red and her lips quivered.
29:08
As I spoke to her, I didn't miss that I began to suspect
29:14
something was amiss. You know the sensation, Mr.
29:18
Sherlock Holmes, when you catch the right trail.
29:22
A kind of electric thrill running through your nerves.
29:27
Have you heard about the mysterious death of your former
29:30
tenant, Mr. Enoch J Drebber from Cleveland?
29:34
I inquired. The mother nodded, seemingly
29:38
unable to speak. The daughter broke into tears.
29:43
It became increasingly clear to me that these people were hiding
29:47
something about the incident. What time did Mr. Drebber leave
29:52
your house to catch the train? I asked.
29:55
At 8:00, she replied, swallowing hard to suppress her distress.
30:01
His secretary, Mr. Stangerson, mentioned there were two trains,
30:06
one at 9:15 and another at 11. He was supposed to take the 1st.
30:14
And was that the last time you saw him?
30:18
As I posed the question, a dreadful transformation swept
30:22
over the woman's face. Her features turned ashen.
30:26
It took several seconds before she could utter the single word
30:29
Yes, and when she did, it was in a hoarse, unnatural voice.
30:35
There was a brief silence, then the daughter spoke in a calm,
30:40
clear voice. No good can ever come from
30:43
deceit, Mother, she said. We should be honest with this
30:48
gentleman. We did see Mr. Drebber again.
30:52
God forgive you, cried Madame Charpentier, throwing her hands
30:57
up and collapsing into her chair.
30:59
You've doomed your brother. Arthur would prefer we tell the
31:03
truth, the girl replied with determination.
31:08
You'd better tell me everything now, I said.
31:11
Half truths are worse than none. Besides, you don't know how much
31:17
we already know on your head. Be it Alice?
31:22
Her mother exclaimed. Then turn to me.
31:25
I will tell you everything, Sir. Don't think my distress for my
31:30
son stems from any fear that he was involved in this dreadful
31:34
affair. He is completely innocent.
31:37
My fear is that in your eyes and others, he might seem
31:42
implicated, but that must be impossible.
31:46
His good character, his profession, his history would
31:50
all prevent it. The best course is to be
31:53
completely honest, I replied. Trust me, if your son is
32:00
innocent, he will not suffer for it.
32:05
Perhaps, Alice, it would be best if you left us alone, she said
32:09
and her daughter quietly exited the room.
32:12
Now, Sir, she continued. I hadn't planned on revealing
32:16
all this to you, but since my poor daughter has let it slip, I
32:21
have no choice. Having decided to speak, I will
32:26
tell you everything without leaving out any details.
32:30
That is the wisest decision, I replied.
32:35
Mr. Drebber has been staying with us for nearly three weeks.
32:39
He and his secretary, Mr. Stangerson, had been travelling
32:43
across Europe. I noticed a Copenhagen label on
32:48
each of their suitcases indicating that was their last
32:51
stop. Stannison was a quiet, reserved
32:55
man, but his employer, I regret to say, was quite the opposite.
32:59
He was coarse and brutish in his behaviour on the very night he
33:04
arrived. He drank excessively an
33:06
afternoon each day. He was rarely sober.
33:11
His behaviour towards the maidservants was disgustingly
33:14
familiar and inappropriate. Worst of all, he soon adopted
33:19
the same demeanour towards my daughter Alice, speaking to her
33:23
in ways that thankfully, she was too innocent to comprehend.
33:28
On one occasion he even grabbed her and embraced her, an outrage
33:33
that prompted his own secretary to reprimand him for his
33:36
disgraceful conduct. But why did you tolerate all
33:40
this? I asked.
33:43
I assume you can dismiss your tenants whenever you choose.
33:47
Missus Charpentier flushed at my direct question.
33:51
I wish I had told him to leave the very day he arrived, she
33:55
confessed. But it was a difficult
33:58
temptation. They were paying a pound a day
34:01
each, £14.00 a week, and this is the slow season.
34:07
I'm a widow and my son in the Navy has been expensive.
34:12
I hated to lose the income. I thought I was doing the right
34:15
thing. But the last incident was too
34:18
much and I finally gave him notice to leave because of it.
34:23
That's why he left. And then my heart felt lighter
34:29
when I saw him drive away. My son is home on leave right
34:33
now, but I didn't tell him any of this as he has a fierce
34:37
temper and is very protective of his sister.
34:42
When I closed the door behind them, it felt like a weight had
34:45
been lifted from my mind. Unfortunately, less than an hour
34:50
later, the doorbell rang and I discovered Mr. Drebber had
34:54
returned. He was visibly agitated and
34:58
clearly intoxicated. He barged into the room where I
35:02
was sitting with my daughter and mumbled something incoherent
35:07
about missing his train. He then turned to Alice and
35:12
right in front of me, asked her to run away with him.
35:16
You're of age, he said. And nothing can legally stop
35:20
you. I've got more than enough money.
35:24
Forget about the old woman here, just come with me right now.
35:28
You'll live like royalty. Poor Alice was so scared, she
35:33
recoiled from him, but he grabbed her wrist and tried to
35:36
pull her towards the door. I screamed and at that moment my
35:41
son Arthur entered the room. What happened next I can't say.
35:48
I heard curses and the chaotic sounds of a struggle.
35:52
I was too terrified to lift my head.
35:55
When I finally looked up, I saw Arthur standing in the doorway,
35:59
laughing with a stick in his hand.
36:03
I don't think that scoundrel will bother us again, he said.
36:07
I'll just follow him and see what he gets up to.
36:11
With that, he grabbed his hat and headed down the street.
36:15
The next morning, we heard about Mr. Drebber's mysterious death.
36:20
Missus Charpentier spoke with many interruptions, her voice
36:25
often so faint that I struggled to catch her words.
36:29
Nevertheless, I took shorthand notes to ensure there would be
36:33
no room for error. Quite thrilling, Sherlock Holmes
36:38
remarked with a yawn. What followed?
36:43
When Missus Charpentier paused, the detective continued.
36:48
I realized the entire case hinged on a single detail,
36:53
locking eyes with her, a technique I found particularly
36:56
effective with women. I asked her what time her son
37:00
returned home. I don't know, she replied.
37:05
You don't know? No.
37:07
He has a latch key and let himself in.
37:10
After you went to bed? Yes.
37:14
When did you retire for the night?
37:18
Around 11. So your son was out for at least
37:22
two hours? Yes.
37:24
Possibly four or five, Yes. What was he doing during that
37:29
time? I don't know, she replied, her
37:34
face turning pale as her lips. After that, there was nothing
37:40
more to be done. I located Lieutenant
37:43
Charpentier, took two officers with me and arrested him.
37:48
When I placed a hand on his shoulder and told him to come
37:51
quietly, he responded with surprising boldness.
37:55
I suppose you're arresting me for being involved in that
37:59
scoundrel Drebber's death. He said we hadn't mentioned
38:03
anything about it to him, so his reference to it seemed highly
38:06
suspicious. Very, Holmes remarked.
38:10
He still carried the heavy stick his mother had described, the
38:14
one he had with him when he followed Drebber.
38:17
It was a sturdy oak cudgel. So what's your theory?
38:24
My theory is that he followed Drebber to Brixton Rd.
38:28
There another argument broke out between them, during which
38:31
Drebber received a blow from the stick, perhaps in the stomach,
38:36
that killed him without leaving a mark.
38:39
The night was so rainy that no one was around, so Charpentier
38:43
dragged the body into the empty house.
38:46
As for the candle, the blood, the writing on the wall, and the
38:51
ring, they could all be tricks to mislead the police.
38:56
Well done. Holmes said, his voice warm with
38:59
encouragement. Truly, Gregson, you're making
39:03
progress. We'll turn you into something
39:05
remarkable, yet I must say I've handled it quite deftly.
39:11
The detective replied with pride.
39:13
The young man offered a statement claiming that after
39:16
trailing Drebber for a while, Drebber noticed him and took a
39:19
cab to escape. On his way home, he ran into an
39:23
old shipmate and went for a long walk with him.
39:26
When asked where this shipmate lived, he couldn't provide a
39:30
satisfactory answer. I believe the pieces of the case
39:34
fit together remarkably well. What tickles me is imagining
39:41
Lestrade, who set off on the wrong track.
39:46
I'm afraid he won't get far with it.
39:50
Why, by Jove, here he is now. Indeed, it was Lestrade who had
39:55
climbed the stairs during our conversation and now entered the
39:58
room. The usual confidence and flair
40:02
in his demeanour and attire were conspicuously absent.
40:06
His face was troubled, his clothes dishevelled.
40:10
Clearly he intended to consult Sherlock Holmes, for upon seeing
40:15
his colleague, he seemed embarrassed and uneasy.
40:20
He stood in the middle of the room, nervously fiddling with
40:23
his hat, unsure of his next move.
40:27
This is an utterly extraordinary case, he finally said.
40:32
A truly baffling affair. Ah, you see it that way too, Mr.
40:38
Lestrade. Gregson exclaimed with a note of
40:41
triumph. I suspected you'd reach that
40:43
conclusion. Have you located the secretary,
40:46
Mr. Joseph Stangerson? The secretary, Mr. Joseph
40:51
Stangerson Lestrade replied with Gravity was murdered at
40:56
Halliday's private hotel around 6:00 this morning.
41:01
In Chapter 6, Inspector Gregson bursts in with pride, claiming
41:06
to have solved the Brixton Rd. mystery Through diligent
41:10
legwork, he tracks the victim, Enoch Drebber, to a London
41:14
boarding house where tensions had flared between Drebber and
41:18
the landlady's daughter. Her brother Arthur Charpentier
41:23
is arrested after Gregson pieces together a plausible motive and
41:27
timeline, one that seems to fit the facts.
41:31
But while Gregson basks in his moment, Holmes remains quietly
41:36
unconvinced. Something doesn't add up.
41:40
And just as Gregson declares victory, Inspector Lestrade
41:44
arrives, pale, dishevelled, and with a stunning revelation that
41:48
shatters Gregson's theory entirely.
41:51
Chapter 7 Light in the Darkness The news Lestrade delivered was
41:56
so significant and unexpected that it left all three of us
42:00
stunned. Gregson leapt from his chair,
42:03
spilling what remained of his whiskey and water.
42:07
I stared silently at Sherlock Holmes, whose lips were tightly
42:11
pressed and brows furrowed in concentration.
42:16
It's dangerous. And too, he murmured.
42:19
The plot thickens. It was already dense enough.
42:24
Lestrade grumbled, settling into a chair.
42:27
I feel like I've stumbled into some kind of war council.
42:32
Are you, are you certain about this information?
42:37
Gregson stammered. I've just come from his room,
42:42
Lestrade replied. I was the first to discover what
42:47
happened. We've been hearing Gregson's
42:51
perspective on the matter, Holmes noted.
42:55
Would you mind sharing what you've seen and done?
42:59
I have no objection, Lestrade said, taking a seat.
43:04
I must admit, I initially believed Stangerson was involved
43:08
in Drebber's death. This new development has shown
43:12
me I was completely wrong. Focused on that idea, I set out
43:16
to find what happened to the secretary.
43:20
They were last seen together at Houston Station around 8:30 on
43:24
the evening of the third. By two in the morning, Drebber
43:29
was found on Brixton Road. The challenge was to determine
43:33
how Stangerson spent his time between 8:30 and the crime and
43:38
what became of him afterward. I sent a telegram to Liverpool
43:42
with his description, advising them to monitor the American
43:46
ships. Then I began visiting all the
43:50
hotels and lodging houses near Houston.
43:54
My reasoning was that if Drebber and his companion had parted
43:58
ways, the latter would likely find a place to stay nearby for
44:02
the night and return to the station the next morning.
44:08
They would probably agree on a meeting place beforehand, Holmes
44:12
remarked. Indeed, that's how it unfolded.
44:15
I spent all of last evening making inquiries, but they led
44:19
nowhere. This morning I started early and
44:23
by 8:00 I arrived at Halliday's Private Hotel on Little George
44:28
St. When I asked if a Mr. Stangerson
44:31
was staying there, they immediately confirmed it.
44:35
You must be the gentleman he's been expecting, they said.
44:39
He's been waiting for someone for two days.
44:43
Where is he now? I inquired.
44:46
He's upstairs in bed. He asked to be woken at 9:00.
44:51
I'll go up and see him right away, I replied.
44:55
I thought my unexpected arrival might unsettle him and cause him
44:59
to say something. Without thinking, the hotel
45:02
Porter offered to show me to the room.
45:04
It was on the 2nd floor with a narrow corridor leading to it.
45:08
The Porter pointed out the door and was about to head back
45:11
downstairs when I noticed something that turned my
45:14
stomach. Despite my 2 decades of
45:17
experience, a thin red ribbon of blood was seeping from under the
45:21
door, winding across the passage and pooling along the baseboard
45:25
on the opposite side. I cried out, which brought the
45:29
Porter back. He nearly fainted at the sight.
45:34
The door was locked from the inside, but we forced it open
45:38
with our shoulders. The window in the room stood
45:42
ajar, and beside it, crumpled on the floor, lay the body of a man
45:48
in his nightclothes. He was unmistakably dead, and
45:53
had been for some time. His limbs were stiff and cold.
45:58
When we turned him over, the boots immediately recognized him
46:02
as the gentleman who had rented the room under the name Joseph
46:06
Stangerson. The cause of death was a deep
46:10
stab wound on the left side, likely piercing the heart.
46:15
And now we come to the most peculiar aspect of the case.
46:21
What do you think was above the murdered man?
46:24
Even before Sherlock Holmes replied, I felt a chill run
46:29
through me, a foreboding of the horror to come.
46:34
The word rage written in letters of blood, he said.
46:40
That's right. Lestrade confirmed, his voice
46:44
filled with awe, and we all fell silent for a moment.
46:49
There was something so calculated and yet so baffling
46:53
about the actions of this unknown killer that it added a
46:56
new layer of dread to his crimes.
46:59
My nerves, which had held steady even in battle, tingled at the
47:03
thought. The man was seen.
47:07
Lestrade continued. A milk boy on his way to the
47:12
dairy happened to walk down the lane that runs from the muse
47:16
behind the hotel. He noticed a ladder, typically
47:20
resting on the ground, now propped against a second floor
47:24
window, which stood wide open. As he walked past, he glanced
47:29
back and observed a man descending the ladder.
47:33
The man moved so quietly and openly that the boy assumed he
47:37
was a Carpenter or joiner working at the hotel.
47:41
He didn't pay much attention, merely thinking it was an early
47:45
hour for such work. He recalls the man being tall
47:49
with a reddish face and wearing a long brownish coat.
47:54
The man must have lingered in the room for a while after the
47:58
murder as they found blood stained water in the basin where
48:02
he had washed his hands and marks on the sheets where he had
48:06
wiped his knife deliberately. I looked at Holmes as I heard
48:11
the description of the murderer which matched his own so
48:14
precisely, yet there was no sign of triumph or satisfaction on
48:20
his face. Did you find anything in the
48:23
room that could lead us to the murderer?
48:27
He inquired. Nothing.
48:30
Stangerson had Drebber's purse in his pocket, but that seemed
48:33
normal since he handled all the payments.
48:36
There were over £80 in it, but nothing was missing.
48:40
Whatever the motives behind these extraordinary crimes,
48:44
robbery is certainly not one of them.
48:47
There were no papers or notes in the murdered man's pocket, save
48:51
for a lone telegram dated from Cleveland about a month prior,
48:55
which simply read JH is in Europe.
48:59
The message bore no signature and nothing else.
49:03
Holmes inquired. Nothing of significance.
49:08
The man had a novel which he had evidently been reading before
49:11
falling asleep. Lying on the bed.
49:14
His pipe rested on a chair beside him.
49:18
A glass of water was on the table, and on the window sill
49:21
sat a small ointment box containing a couple of pills.
49:26
Sherlock Holmes leapt from his chair with a cry of triumph.
49:30
The final piece? He exclaimed, jubilant.
49:34
My case is complete. The two detectives looked at him
49:39
astonished. I now hold my companion declared
49:44
with assurance all the threads that have been so entangled.
49:48
There are naturally details to be filled in, but I am as
49:53
certain of the main events, from when Drebber parted ways with
49:57
Stangerson at the station, to the discovery of Stangerson's
50:00
body, as if I had witnessed them myself.
50:04
I will demonstrate my understanding.
50:08
Could you produce those pills? I have them, Lestrade replied,
50:13
pulling out a small white box. I took them along with the purse
50:19
and the telegram, intending to secure them at the police
50:22
station. It was sheer coincidence that I
50:26
ended up with these pills, as I must admit I don't really think
50:29
much of them. Let me see them, said Holmes.
50:34
Now, Doctor, He turned to me. Are these ordinary pills?
50:41
They were anything but ordinary. They were a pearly grey, small,
50:47
round and nearly see through when held up to the light.
50:52
Given their lightness and transparency, I guess they're
50:56
water soluble, I observed. Exactly, Holmes replied.
51:02
Now could you go and bring up that poor little terrier that's
51:06
been suffering for so long, the one the landlady asked you to
51:09
put out of its misery yesterday I went downstairs and gently
51:14
carried the dog back up. It's laboured breathing and
51:18
glazed eyes made it clear it was near the end.
51:21
It's Snow White muzzle showed it It already outlived the typical
51:25
lifespan for a dog. I set it down on a cushion by
51:29
the rug. I'll cut one of these pills in
51:32
half now, said Holmes, pulling out his pen knife and doing just
51:37
that. 1/2 goes back in the box for later.
51:41
The other half I'll place in this wine glass with a teaspoon
51:45
of water. You see, our friend the doctor
51:48
was right. It dissolves easily.
51:52
This might be quite intriguing. Lestrade remarked, his voice
51:56
tinged with the irritation of someone who feels mocked.
52:00
Yet I fail to see how it relates to Mr. Joseph Stangerson's
52:04
death. Patience, my dear friend,
52:08
patience. In due time, you'll realize it
52:11
has everything to do with it. Now I'll add a bit of milk to
52:16
make the concoction more appealing, and when we offer it
52:20
to the dog, you'll see he drinks it eagerly.
52:24
As he spoke, Holmes poured the contents of the wine glass into
52:28
a saucer and set it before the terrier, who promptly licked it
52:32
clean. Holmes's serious demeanour had
52:36
convinced us to sit silently watching the animal closely,
52:40
anticipating some dramatic reaction.
52:44
Yet nothing happened. The dog remained sprawled on the
52:49
cushion, breathing heavily but seemingly unaffected by the
52:53
drink. Holmes checked his watch, and as
52:57
the minutes ticked by without any change, his face showed deep
53:01
frustration and disappointment. He bit his lip, tapped his
53:06
fingers on the table, and exhibited every sign of intense
53:11
impatience. His agitation was so palpable
53:15
that I genuinely felt sorry for him, while the 2 detectives
53:19
smirked, clearly enjoying his set back.
53:23
It can't be mere coincidence. He exclaimed, finally leaping
53:27
from his chair and pacing the room in agitation.
53:31
It's impossible that this is just a coincidence.
53:35
The very pills I suspected in Drebber's case are indeed found
53:39
after Stangerson's death, and yet they remain inert.
53:44
What could this possibly mean? Surely my entire line of
53:48
reasoning can't be flawed. It's unthinkable.
53:51
And yet this poor dog shows no I'll effects.
53:56
I've got it, I've got it. With a triumphant cry, he dashed
54:01
to the box, split the other pill in two, dissolved it, mixed it
54:05
with milk and offered it to the terrier.
54:08
The unfortunate animal barely touched it with its tongue
54:11
before it convulsed violently, every limb shuddering, and then
54:15
lay still and lifeless, as if struck by lightning.
54:19
Sherlock Holmes exhaled deeply, wiping sweat from his brow.
54:25
I should have more faith, he remarked.
54:28
By now I ought to realize that when a fact seems to contradict
54:32
a long chain of deductions, it invariably can be interpreted
54:37
another way. Of the two pills in that box, 1
54:42
was lethally poisonous, while the other was completely
54:46
harmless. I should have known that before
54:50
I even laid eyes on the box. This revelation was so
54:54
astonishing to me that I could scarcely believe he was in his
54:58
right mind. Yet the dead dog was undeniable
55:03
proof that his hypothesis was correct.
55:06
It felt as though the fog in my own mind was slowly lifting, and
55:11
I began to perceive the truth, albeit dimly and vaguely.
55:17
All this seems strange to you, Holmes continued.
55:22
Because at the outset of the investigation, you failed to
55:25
grasp the significance of the single real clue that was right
55:29
in front of you. I was fortunate to latch onto
55:33
that insight, and everything since has only reinforced my
55:37
initial theory, following logically from it.
55:42
What has puzzled you and clouded the case has actually clarified
55:46
things for me and solidified my conclusions.
55:50
It's a mistake to confuse the unusual with the mysterious.
55:54
Often the most ordinary crime is the most enigmatic because it
55:58
lacks distinctive features from which to draw conclusions.
56:02
This murder would have been far harder to solve if the victim's
56:06
body had simply been found lying in the street, devoid of those
56:10
bizarre and sensational elements that made it stand out.
56:15
These peculiar details, rather than complicating the case, have
56:20
actually simplified it. Mr. Gregson, who had been
56:23
listening with growing impatience, could hold back no
56:27
longer. Listen, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, he
56:31
said. We all recognize that you're a
56:33
clever man with your own way of doing things, but we need more
56:37
than just theories and lectures. Now it's time to catch the
56:41
culprit. I thought I had my case wrapped
56:45
up, but it turns out I was mistaken.
56:49
Young Charpentier couldn't have been involved in this second
56:53
incident. Lestrade pursued Stangerson, but
56:56
it seems he was mistaken as well.
56:59
You've been dropping hints here and there suggesting you know
57:03
more than we do. The time has come for us to ask
57:08
directly. How much do you really know
57:11
about this case? Can you identify the culprit?
57:16
I can't shake the feeling that Gregson is correct, Sir,
57:20
Lestrade interjected. We've both made attempts and
57:24
come up short. You've mentioned more than once
57:27
since I've been here that you possess all the evidence you
57:31
need. Surely you won't keep it from us
57:34
any longer. Any delay in apprehending the
57:37
murderer? I pointed out.
57:39
Might allow him the opportunity to commit another heinous act.
57:43
Pressed by all of us, Holmes showed signs of hesitation.
57:48
He continued pacing the room, head bowed and brows furrowed as
57:52
he often did when deep in thought.
57:55
There will be no further murders.
57:58
He finally declared, stopping abruptly and facing us.
58:02
You can dismiss that concern. You've asked if I know the
58:07
Assassin's name. I do.
58:11
Knowing his name is a minor victory compared to actually
58:14
getting our hands on him. I expect to accomplish this
58:18
soon. I have a plan in place, but it
58:22
requires A delicate touch. We're dealing with a sharp and
58:26
dangerous man backed by someone equally cunning.
58:30
As long as he remains unaware that anyone is on to him, we
58:34
have a chance to catch him. But if he even suspects, he'll
58:39
change his identity and disappear into the city's 4
58:43
million souls. I mean no offense, but I believe
58:47
these men outmatched the official force, which is why I
58:51
haven't sought your help. If I fail, I'll accept the blame
58:55
for that decision, but I'm prepared for it.
58:59
I promise to contact you the moment I can do so without
59:02
jeopardizing my strategy. Gregson and Lestrade were
59:06
clearly not pleased with this explanation or the slight
59:09
against the detective police. Gregson flushed to the roots of
59:13
his blonde hair while Lestrade's eyes shone with a mix of
59:16
curiosity and irritation. Before either could respond,
59:21
there was a knock at the door and young Wiggins, the leader of
59:24
the street urchins, made his unremarkable and somewhat grimy
59:28
entrance. Please, Sir, he said, touching
59:34
his forelock. I've got the cab downstairs.
59:39
Good boy, Holmes said with a calm demeanour.
59:43
Why not introduce this design at Scotland Yard?
59:46
He continued, retrieving a pair of steel handcuffs from a
59:50
drawer. Observe how smoothly the spring
59:53
operates. They lock instantly.
59:58
The old design works well enough, Lestrade replied.
1:00:02
If only we can find the right man to put them on.
1:00:06
Very good, very good. Holmes said with a smile.
1:00:11
The cab man might as well help me with my luggage.
1:00:14
Wiggins, please ask him to come up.
1:00:18
I was taken aback to hear my companion speaking as if he were
1:00:22
preparing for a trip, as he hadn't mentioned anything to me
1:00:25
about it. A small suitcase was in the
1:00:28
room, which he pulled out and began to fasten.
1:00:31
He was engrossed in this task when the cab man entered.
1:00:35
Could you help me with this buckle, Cab man?
1:00:39
Holmes asked, focused on his work and not turning his head.
1:00:45
The man approached with a somewhat sullen, defiant
1:00:48
expression, reaching out to assist.
1:00:52
In that instant there was a sharp click, the clatter of
1:00:56
metal, and Sherlock Holmes leapt to his feet.
1:01:00
Gentlemen, he announced, His eyes are light.
1:01:04
Allow me to introduce Mr. Jefferson Hope, the murderer of
1:01:08
Enoch Drebber and Joseph Stangerson.
1:01:12
The entire scene unfolded in a flash, so swiftly that I had no
1:01:17
time to comprehend it. I vividly remember that moment,
1:01:22
Holmes's triumphant look, the commanding tone of his voice,
1:01:27
and the cab man's bewildered, furious expression as he stared
1:01:31
at the handcuffs that it seemingly materialized on his
1:01:35
wrists. For a brief moment, we were like
1:01:38
statues, frozen in time. Then, with a guttural roar of
1:01:43
rage, the prisoner tore himself from Holmes's grip and launched
1:01:48
himself through the window. The wood and glass shattered
1:01:52
around him, but before he could escape, Gregson, Lestrade, and
1:01:57
Holmes pounced on him like a pack of hounds.
1:02:01
They dragged him back into the room, igniting A fierce
1:02:05
struggle. His strength was astonishing,
1:02:08
almost convulsive, as if he were in the throes of an epileptic
1:02:13
fit. Despite his face and hands being
1:02:16
badly cut from the glass, the blood loss did nothing to weaken
1:02:21
his resistance. It wasn't until Lestrade managed
1:02:23
to get a hand inside his neckloth and half strangle him
1:02:27
that he realized his efforts were futile.
1:02:30
Even then, we felt no relief until we had bound his feet as
1:02:35
securely as his hands. Exhausted and gasping for
1:02:40
breath, we finally stood up. We have his cab, Sherlock Holmes
1:02:46
said it will do to take him to Scotland Yard.
1:02:51
And now, gentlemen. He said with a warm smile.
1:02:55
We've come to the conclusion of our little mystery.
1:02:59
Feel free to ask me anything you'd like.
1:03:02
I'm more than willing to provide answers.
1:03:05
With the second murder revealed, Holmes wastes no time.
1:03:10
As Lestrade and Gregson scramble to adjust their theories, Holmes
1:03:14
quietly traces the final threads.
1:03:17
Then, in a moment of calm precision, springs his trap.
1:03:23
The man behind both killings is caught not through luck, but
1:03:28
through luck logic, not through force, but by following the
1:03:32
smallest details no one else could see.
1:03:36
In just a few steps, Holmes does what the official detectives
1:03:40
could not. He solves the case.
1:03:43
But even with the killer in custody, one question remains.
1:03:48
Why? What drove a man across
1:03:51
continents, through years of silence, to murder not once, but
1:03:56
twice? Part 2 The story rewinds.
1:04:01
We leave the fog of London behind and travel across the
1:04:05
Atlantic to the deserts of the American West.
1:04:08
There, in a land of faith, isolation, and vengeance, we
1:04:13
uncover the hidden past that gave birth to the mystery of
1:04:17
Lauriston Gardens. The answers lie not in the
1:04:21
streets of London, but in the shadows of Utah.
1:04:26
You've been listening to Sherlock Holmes, the 221 B
1:04:30
Chronicles, an episodic audio book presentation of Sherlock
1:04:34
Holmes. Thank you for joining us.
1:04:37
We'll be back with the next two chapters in our next release.
1:04:40
Until then, the case continues.