May 15, 2025 • 35 mins
Dive into the final volume of Arthur Conan Doyles detective stories, where he bids a heartfelt farewell to his most renowned creation - Sherlock Holmes. These eclectic tales span different stages of Holmess life, including his retirement, and are narrated from varying perspectives, including Watson, Holmes, and an omnipotent narrator. While many stories showcase Holmess famed deductive reasoning, others highlight lesser-known aspects of his character, such as his compassion, empathy, and sense of humor. His rapport with Dr. Watson, while occasionally blunt, is marked by kindness, affection, and professional respect, painting a portrait of a profound and intricate friendship that captivates readers. (Summary by T. A. Copeland).
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
Section three of the case Book of Sherlock Holmes by
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. This libvox according is in the
public domain. Read by Thomas Copeland, Story three, The Adventure
of the Mazarin Stone. It was pleasant to doctor Watson
to find himself once more in the untidy room of
the first floor in Baker Street, which had been the
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starting point of so many remarkable adventures. He looked round
him at the scientific charts upon the wall, the acid
charred bench of chemicals, the violin case leaning in the corner,
the coal scuttle which contained of old the pipes and tobacco. Finally,
his eyes came round to the fresh and smiling face
of Billy, the young but very wise and tactful page,
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who had helped a little to fill up the gap
of loneliness and isolation which surrounded the saturnine figure for
the great detective. It all seems very unchanged, Billy. You
don't change either, I hope the same can be said
of him. Billy glanced with some solicitude at the closed
door of the bedroom. I think he's in bed and
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to sleep, he said. It was seven in the evening
of a lovely summer's day. But doctor Watson was sufficiently
familiar with the irregularity of his old friend's ours to
feel no surprise at the idea that means a case.
I suppose, Yes, sir, he is very hard at it.
Just now I'm frightened for his health. He gets paler
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and thinner, and he eats nothing. When will you be
pleased to dine, mister Holmes, missus Hudson asked seven thirty
the day after to Morrow, said he you know his
way when he is keen on a case. Yes, Billy,
I know he's following some one. Yesterday he was out
as a workman looking for a job. To day he
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was an old woman fairly took me, and he did,
and I ought to know his ways by now. Billy
pointed with a grin to a very baggy parasol which
leaned against the sofa. That's part of the old woman's outfit,
he said. But what is it all about, Billy? Billy
sank his voice as one who discusses great secrets of state.
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I don't mind telling you, sir, but it should go
no farther. It's this case of the Crown Diamond. What
the hundred thousand Pound Burglary. Yes, sir, they must get
it back. Sir. Why we had the Prime Minister and
the Home Secretary both sitting on that very sofa. Mister
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Holmes was very nice to them. You soon put them
at their ease and promised he would do all he could.
Then there is Lord Cantlemere. Ah, yes, sir, you know
what that means. He's a stiffen Sir. If I may
say so, I can get along with the Prime Minister,
and I've nothing against the Home Secretary, who seemed a
civil obliging sort of man, but I can't stand his lordship.
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Neither can mister Holmes. Sir. You see, he don't believe
in mister Holmes, and he was against employing him. He
rather failed, and mister Holmes knows it. Mister Holmes always
knows whatever there is to know. Well, we'll hope he
won't fail, and that Lord Cantlemere will be confounded. But
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I say, Billy, what is that curtain for crossed the window?
Mister Holmes had it put up there three days ago.
We've got something funny behind it. Billy advanced and drew
away the drapery which screened the alcove of the bow window.
Doctor Watson could not restrain a cry of amazement. There
was a facsimile of his old friend dressing gown, and
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all the face turned three quarters towards the window and downwards,
as though reading an invisible book. While the body was
sunk deep in an arm chair. Billy detached the head
and held it in the air. We put it at
different angles so that it may seem more life like.
I wouldn't dare touch it if the blind were not down.
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But when it's up. You can see this from across
the way. We used something of the sort once before,
before my time, said Billy. He drew the window curtains
apart and looked out into the street. There are folk
who watch us from over yonder. I can see a
fellow now at the window. Have a look for yourself.
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Watson had taken a step forward when the bedroom door
opened and the long, thin form of homes emerged, his
face pale and drawn, but his step and bearing as
active as ever with a single spring. He was at
the window and had drawn the blind once more. That
will do, Billy said he. You were in danger of
your life, then, my boy, and I can't do without
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you just yet, well, Watson, it is good to see
you in your old quarters. Once again. You come at
a critical moment, so I gather there you can go, Billy,
And that boy is a proper Watson. How far am
I justified in allowing him to be in danger? Danger
of what Holmes a sudden death? I am expecting something
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this evening, expecting what to be murdered? Watson. No, No,
you are joking, homes Even my limited sense of humor
could evolve a better joke than that. But we may
be comfortable in the meantime, may we not? Is alcohol permitted?
The gasogene and cigars are in the old place. Let
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me see you once more in the customary arm chair.
You have not, I hope, learned to despise my pipe
and my lamentable tobacco. It has to take the place
of food these days. But why not eat? Because the
faculties become refined when you start them. Why, surely, as
a doctor, my dear Watson, you must admit that what
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your digestion gains in the way of blood supply is
so much lost to the brain. I am a brain, Watson.
The rest of me is mere appendix. Therefore it is
the brain I must consider but this danger, Holmes. Ah, Yes,
in case it should come off, it would perhaps be
as well that you should burden your memory with the
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name and address of the murderer. You can give it
to Scotland Yard with my love and a parting blessing.
Silvius is the name, Count Negretto Silvius. Write it down, Man,
write it down one three six moor Side Gardens. N
w got it. Watson's honest face was twitching with anxiety.
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He knew only too well the immense risks taken by Holmes,
and was well aware that what he said was more
likely to be under statement than exaggeration. Watson was always
the man of action, and he rose to the occasion.
Count me in Holmes, I have nothing to do for
a day or two. Your morals don't improve, Watson. You
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have added fibbing to your other vices. You bear every
sign of the busy medical man, with calls on him
every hour, not such important ones. But can't you have
this fellow arrested? Yes, Watson, I could, That's what worries
him so. But why don't you? Because I don't know
where the diamond is? Ah, Billy told me the missing
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crown jewel. Yes, the great yellow Mazarin stone. I've cast
my net and I half my fish, but I have
not got the stone. What is the use of taking them?
We can make the world a better place by laying
them by the heels, but that is not what I
am out for. It's the stone I won't And is
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this Count Sylvius one of your fish? Yes? And he's
a shark he bites. The other is Sam Merton, the boxer.
Not a bad fellow, Sam, but the Count has used him.
Sam's not a shark. He is a great, big, bull
headed gudgeon. But he is flopping about in my net
all the same. Where is this Count Sylvius? I've been
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at his very elbow all the morning. You've seen me
as an old lady, Watson, I was never more convincing.
He actually picked up my parasol for me once by leave,
Madame said. He half Italian, you know, and with the
southern graces of manner when in the mood, but a
devil incarnate in the other mood. Life is full of
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whimsical happenings, Watson, it might have been tragedy, well, perhaps
it might. I followed him to Old straw Benzi's workshop,
in the mineries. Strabenzi made the air gun a very
pretty bit of work, as I understand, and I rather
fancy it is in the opposite window at the present moment.
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Have you seen the dummy? Of course, Billy showed it
to you. Well, it may get a bullet through its
beautiful head at any moment, Ah, Billy, what is it?
The boy had reappeared in the room with a card
upon a tray. Holmes glanced at it with raised eyebrows
and an amused smile. The man himself, I had hardly
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expected this grasp the nettle. Watson a man of nerve.
Possibly you have heard of his reputation as a shooter
of big game. It would indeed be a triumphant ending
to his excellent sporting record if he added me to
his bag. This is a proof that he feels my
toe very close behind his heel. Send for the police,
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I probably shall, but not just yet. Would you glance
carefully out of the window, Watson, and see if any
one is hanging about in the street. Watson looked wearily
round the edge of the curtain. Yes, there is one
rough fellow near the door. That will be sam Merton,
the faithful but rather fatuous, Sam, Where is this gentleman
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Billy in the waiting room, Sir? Show him up when
I ring, Yes, sir, if I am not in the room,
show him in all the same, Yes, sir. Watson waited
until the door was closed, and then he turned earnestly
to his companion. Look here, Holmes, this is simply impossible.
This is a desperate man who sticks at nothing. He
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may have come to murder you. I should not be surprised.
I insist upon staying with you. You would be horribly
in the way, in his way. No, my dear fellow,
in my way. Well, I can't possibly leave you. Yes
you can, Watson, and you will, for you have never
failed to play the game. I am sure you will
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play it to the end. This man has come for
his own purpose, but he may stay for mine. Holmes
took out his note book and scribbled a few lines.
Take a cab to Scotland Yard and give this to you.
Gall up the c I d come back with the police.
The fellow's arrest will follow. I'll do that with joy.
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Before you return. I may have just time enough to
find out where the stone is. He touched the bell.
I think we will go out through the bedroom. The
second exit is exceedingly useful. I rather want to see
my shark without his seeing me, and I have, as
you will remember, my own way of doing it. It
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was therefore an empty room into which Billy a minute
later ushered. Count Sylvius, the famous game shop sportsman and
man about town, was a big, swarthy fellow with a
formidable dark mustache, shading a cruel, thin lipped mouth, and
surmounted by a long curved nose like the beak of
an eagle. He was well dressed, but his brilliant necktie,
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shining pin, and glittering rings were flamboyant in their effect.
As the door closed behind him, he looked round him
with fierce, startled eyes, like one who suspects a trap
at every turn. Then he gave a violent start as
he saw the impassive head and the collar of the
dressing gown, which projected a bow, the arm chair in
the window. At first his expression was one of pure amazement.
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Then the light of a horrible hope gleamed in his dark,
murderous eyes. He took one more glance round to see
that there were no witnesses, and then, on tip toe,
his thick stick half raised, he approached the silent figure
he was crouching for his final spring and blow, when
a cool, sardonic voice greeted him from the open bedroom door,
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and don't break it, Count, don't break it. The assassin
staggered back, amazement in his convulsed face. For an instant
he half raised his loaded cane once more, as if
he would turn his violence from the effigy to the original.
But there was something in that steady gray eye and
mocking smile which caused his hand to sink to his side.
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It's a pretty little thing, said Holmes, advancing towards the image.
De Vernier, the French modeler, made it. He is as
good at waxworks as your friend Stroud at air guns.
Air guns, sir, what do you mean? Put your hat
and stick on the side table, Thank you, pray, take
a seat? Would you care to put your revolver out? Also? Oh,
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very good? If you have heard a sit upon it.
Your visit is really most opportune, for I wanted badly
to have a few minutes chat with you, The Count scowled,
with heavy threatening eyebrows. I too wished to have some
words with you, Holmes, that is why I am here.
I won't deny that I intended to assault you just now,
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Holmes swung his leg on the edge of the table.
I rather gathered that you had some idea of the
sort in your head, said he. But why these personal attentions,
because you have gone out of your way to annoy me,
because you have put your creatures upon my track. My creatures,
I assure you, no nonsense. I have had them followed.
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Two can play at that game, Holmes. It is a
small point, Count Sylvius, But perhaps you would kindly give
me my prefix when you address me. You can understand
that with my routine of work, I should find myself
on familiar terms with half the rogue's gallery, and you
will agree that exceptions are invidious. Well, mister Holmes, then excellent,
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But I assure you you are mistaken about my alleged agents,
Count Sylvius laughed contemptuously. Other people can observe as well
as you. Yesterday there was an old sporting man. To
day it was an elderly woman. They held me in
view all day. Really, sir, you compliment me. Old Baron
Dowson said the night before he was hanged that in
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my case for the law had gained, the stage had lost,
and now you give my little impersonations your kindly praise.
It was you, you, yourself, Holmes shrugged his shoulders. You
can see in the corner the parasaw which you so
politely handed to me in the minneries before you began
to suspect. If I had known, you might never have
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seen this humble abode. Again, I was well aware of it.
We all have neglected opportunities to deplore. As it happens,
you did not know. So here we are. The Count's
knotted brows gathered more heavily over his menacing eyes. But
you say only makes the matter worse. It was not
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your agent's but your play acting Busyboddy's self. You admit
that you have dogged me. Why come now, Count, you
used to shoot lions in Algeria? Well, but why why
the sport, the excitement, the danger, and no doubt to
free the country from a pest? Exactly my reasons in
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a nutshell. The Count sprang to his feet, and his
hand involuntarily moved back to his hip pocket. Sit down, sir,
sit down. There was another more practic reason I want
that yellow diamond, Count Sylvius lay back in his chair
with an evil smile upon my word, said he you
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knew that I was after you for that. The real
reason why you are here to night is to find
out how much I know about the matter, and how
far my removal is absolutely essential. Well, I should say
that from your point of view, it is absolutely essential,
for I know all about it save only one thing,
which you are about to tell me. Oh, indeed, and pray,
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what is this missing fact? Where the crown diamond now is?
The Count looked sharply at his companion. Oh you ought
to know that, do you? How the devil should I
be able to tell you where it is? You can,
and you will. Indeed, you coun't bluff me, Count Sylvia's
Holmes's eyes, as he gazed at him, contracted and lightened
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until they were like two menacing points of steel. You
are absolute plate glass. I see to the very back
of your mind. Then of course you see where the
diamond is. Holmes clapped his hands with amusement, and then
pointed a derisive finger. Then you do know who have
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admitted it? I admit nothing now. Count. If you will
be reasonable, we can do business. If not, you will
get hurt. Count, Sylvius threw up his eyes to the ceiling,
and you talk about block, said he. Holmes looked at
him thoughtfully, like a master chess player who meditates his crowning. Moved.
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Then he threw open the table drawer and drew out
a squat note book. Do you know what I keep
in this book? No, sir, I do not you me, Yes, you, sir,
You are all here, every action of your vile and
dangerous life. Damn you, Holmes, cried the Count with blazing eyes.
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There are limits to my patients. It's all here, Count.
The real fact says to the death of old missus Harold,
who left you the Blimer estate which you so rapidly
gambled away you are dreaming, and the complete life history
of miss Minnie Warrender tut you will make nothing of that.
Plenty more here, Count, there is the robbery in the
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train de Luxe to the Riviera on February thirteenth, eighteen
ninety two. Here is the forged check in the same
year on the Treglionet. No you're wrong there, then I
am right on the others now, Count, you are a
card player when the other fellow has all the trumps.
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It saves time to throw down your hand. What does
all this talk to do with a jewel of which
you spoke? Gently, Count, restrain your eager mind. Let me
get to the points in my own pub drum fashion.
I have all this against you, but above all, I
have a clear case against both you and your fighting
bully in the case of the grown Diamond. Indeed, I
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have the cabman who took you to Whitehall and the
cabman who brought you away. I have the commissionaire who
saw you near the case. I have Ike Sanders, who
refused to cut it up for you. Ike has peached,
and the game is up. The veins stood out on
the Count's for it. His dark, hairy hands were clenched
in a convulsion of restrained emotion. He tried to speak,
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but the words would not shape themselves. That's the hand
I play from, said Holmes. I put it all upon
the table, but one card is missing. It's the King
of Diamonds. I don't know where the stone is. You
never shall know. No, Now, be reasonable, Count, consider the situation.
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You are going to be locked up for twenty years,
so is sam Merton. What good are you going to
get from out of your diamond none in the world.
But if you hand it over, well I'll compound a felony.
We don't want you or Sam, we want the stone.
Give that up, and so far as I am concerned,
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you can go free so long as you behave yourself
in the future. If you make another slip, well it
will be the last. But this time my commission is
to get the stone, not you. But if I refuse,
why then alas it must be you and not the stone.
Billy had appeared in answer to a ring. I think
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Count that it would be as well to have your
friend Sam at this conference, After all, his interests should
be represented. Billy, you will see a large and ugly
gentleman outside the front door. Ask him to come up.
If you won't come, sir, no violence, Billy, don't be
rough with him. If you tell him that Count Sylvius
wants him, he will certainly come. What are you going
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to do now, asked the Count as Billy disappeared. My
friend Watson was with me just now. I told him
that I had a shark and a gudgeon in my net.
Now I am drawing the net, and up they come together.
The Count had risen from his chair and his hand
was behind his back. Holmes held something half protruding from
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the pocket of his dressing gown. You won't die in
your bed, Holmes, I have often had the same idea.
Does it matter very much? After all? Count your own
exit is more likely to be perpendicular than horizontal. Mark
These anticipations of the future a morbid Why not give
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ourselves up to the unrestrained enjoyment of the present? A sudden,
wild beast light sprang up in the dark, menacing eyes
of the master criminal. Holmes's figure seemed to grow taller
as he grew tense and ready. It is no use
your fingering your revolver, my friend, he said in a
quiet voice. You know perfectly well that you dare not
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use it, even if I gave you time to draw it.
Nasty noisy things. Revolvers count better to stick to air guns. Ah,
I think I hear the fairy footstep of your estimable partner.
Good day, mister Merton. Rather dull in the street, is
it not? The prize fighter, A heavily built young man
with a stupid, obstinate, slab sided face, stood awkwardly at
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the door, looking about him with a puzzled expression. Holmes's
debonair manner was a new experience, and though he vaguely
felt that it was hostile, he did not know how
to counter it. He turned to his more astute comrade
for help. What's the game now, Count horses Fellow on
what's up? His voice was deep and raucous. The Count
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shrugged his shoulders, and it was Holmes who answered, if
I may put it in a nutshell, mister Merton, I
should say it was all up. The boxer still addressed
his remarks to his associate. Is this cove trying to
be funny or what? I am? Not in the funny
move myself? No, I expect not, said Holmes. I think
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I can promise you that you will feel even less
humorous as the evening advances. Now, look here, Count Sylvis,
I'm a busy man and I can't waste time. I
am going into that bedroom. Pray, make yourselves quite at home.
In my absence. You can explain to your friend how
the matter lies. Without the restraint of my presence. I
shall try over the Hoffman Barker roll upon my violin.
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In five minutes I shall return for your final answer.
You quite grasped the alternative, do you not, shall we
take you? Or shall we have the stone? Holmes withdrew,
picking up his violin from the corner as he passed.
A Few moments later, the long drawn wailing notes of
that most haunting of tunes came faintly through the closed
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door of the bedroom. What is it, then, asked Merton anxiously,
as his companion turned to him. Does he know about
the stone? He knows a sight too much about it.
I'm not sure that he doesn't know all about it?
Good lord, The box's sallow face turned to shade whiter.
Ikey Sanders has split on us. He has as he
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I'll do him down a thicken for that. If I
swing for it. That won't help us much. We've got
to make up our minds what to do. Have em o,
said the boxer, looking suspiciously at the bedroom door. Is
a leery cove that wants watching. I suppose he's not listening.
How can he be listening with that music going? That's right,
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Maybe somebody's behind the curtain. Too many curtains in this room.
As he looked round, he suddenly saw for the first
time the effigy in the window and stood staring and
pointing to amaze for words. Tut, it's only a dummy,
said the count. A fake, is it? Well? Strike me
madam too, so ain't in it? It's the living spit
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of him gown and all but them curtains gowned, Oh,
confound the curtains. We are wasting our time and there
is none too much. He can lag us over this
stone the juice he can, but he'll let us slip
if we only tell him where the swag is. What
give it up? Give up a hundred thousand quid. It's
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one or the other. Merton scratched his short cropped pate.
He's alone in there. Let's do him in. If his
light were out, we should have nothing to hear. The
Count shook his head. He is armed and ready. If
we shot him, we could hardly get away in a
place like this. Besides, it's likely enough that the police
know whatever evidence he has got. Hump, No, what was that?
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There was a vague sound which seemed to come from
the window. Both men sprang round, but all was quiet
save for the one strange figure seated in the chair.
The room was certainly empty. Dumping in the street, said Merton.
Now look here, gov'nor, you've got the brain, and surely
you can think a way out of it. If slugging
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is no use, then it's up to you. I fooled
better men than he, the Count answered. The stone is
here in my secret pocket. I take no chance as
leaving it about. It can be out of England to
night and cut into four pieces in Amsterdam before Sunday.
He knows nothing of Van Saddar. I thought Van Sadar
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was going next week. He was, But now he must
get off by the next boat. One or other of
us must slip round with a stone to Lime Street
and tell him. But the false border mate ready, Well,
he must take it as it is and chance it.
But not a moment to lose again with a sense
of danger which becomes an instinct with a sportsman. He
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paused and looked hard at the window. Yes, it was
surely from the street that the faint sound had come.
As to Holmes, he continued, we can fool him easily enough,
you see, the damned fool won't arrest us if he
can get the stone. Well, we'll promise in the stone
we'll put him on the wrong track about it, and
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before he finds that it is the wrong track. It
will be in Holland and we out of the country.
That sounds good to me, cried Sam Merton, with a grin.
You go on and tell the Dutchman to get a
move on him. I'll see this sucker and fill him
up with a bogus confession. I'll tell him that the
stone is in Liverpool. Confound that whining music had guess
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on my nerves. By the time he finds it isn't
in Liverpool, it will be in Quarters and we on
the blue water. Come back here out of a line
with that keyhole. Here is the stone. I wonder your
dear carry it? Where could I have it safer? If
we could take it out of Whitehall? Some one else
could surely take it out of my lodgings. Let's have
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a look at it. Count Sylvius cast a somewhat unflattering
glance at his associate and disregarded the unwashed hand which
was extended towards him. What do you think I'm going
to snatch it off? You see here, mister, I'm getting
a bit tired of your ways. Well, well, no offense, Sam,
we can't afford to quarrel. Come over to the window.
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If you want to see the beauty properly, now hold
it to the light here. Thank you. With a single spring,
Holmes had leaped from the dummy's chair and had grasped
the precious jewel. He held it now in one hand,
while his other pointed a revolver at the Count's head.
The two villains staggered back in utter amazement. Before they
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had recovered, Holmes had pressed the electric bell. No violence, gentlemen,
no violence, I beg of you. Consider the furniture. It
must be very clear to you that your position is
an impossible one. The police are waiting below. The Count's
bewilderment overmastered his rage and fear. But how the deuce
he gasped. Your surprise is very natural. You are not
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aware that a second door from my bedroom the behind
that curtain. I fancied that you must have heard me
when I displaced the figure, but luck was on my side.
It gave me a chance of listening to your racy conversation,
which would have been painfully constrained had you been aware
of my presence. The Count gave a gesture of resignation.
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We give you best, Holmes. I believe you are the
devil himself not far from him at any rate, Holmes
answered with a polite smile. Sam Merton's slow intellect had
only gradually appreciated the situation. Now as the sound of
heavy steps came from the stairs outside, evoke silence. At last,
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a fair cock said he but I say, what about
that bloom and fiddle? I hear it yet? Tut tut,
Holmes answered, you are perfectly right. Let it play. These
modern gramophones are a remarkable invention. There was an in
rush of police. The handcuffs clicked, and their criminals were
led to the waiting cab. Watson lingered with Holmes, congratulating
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him upon this fresh leaf added to his laurels. Once more,
the conversation was interrupted by the imperturbable Billy with his
card tray. Lord Candlemere, sir, show him up, Billy. This
is the eminent peer who represents the very highest interests,
said Holmes. He is an excellent and loyal person. But
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rather of the old regime, shall we make him unbend?
Dare we venture upon us slight liberty? He knows we
may conjecture nothing of what has occurred. The door opened
to admit a thin austere figure with a hatchet face
and drooping mid Victorian whiskers of a glossy blackness which
hardly corresponded with the rounded shoulders and feeble gait. Holmes
(30:46):
advanced affably and shook an unresponsive hand. I'll you do,
Lord Candlemere. It is chilly for the time of year,
but rather warm indoors. May I take your overcoat? No,
I thank you, I will not take it off. Holmes
laid his hand insistently upon the sleeve. Pray allow me,
(31:06):
My friend doctor Watson would assure you that these changes
of temperature are most insidious. His lordship shook himself free
with some impatience. I am quite comfortable, sir. I have
no need to stay. I have simply looked in to
know how your self appointed task was progressing. It is difficult,
and very difficult. I feared that you would find it so.
(31:30):
There was a distinct sneer in the old courtier's words
and manner. Every man finds his limitations, mister Holmes, but
at least it cures us of the weakness of self satisfaction. Yes, Sir,
I have been much perplexed, no doubt, especially upon one point.
Possibly you could help me upon it. You apply from
(31:52):
my advice rather late in the day, I thought that
you had your own all sufficient methods. Still I am
ready to help you. You see, Lord Cantlemere, we can
no doubt frame a case against the actual thieves when
you have caught them exactly. But the question is, how
shall we proceed against the receiver? Is this not rather premature?
(32:17):
It is as well to have our plans ready. Now.
What would you regard as final evidence against the receiver?
The actual possession of the stone? You would arrest him
upon that most undoubtedly. Holmes seldom laughed, but he got
as near it as his old friend Watson could remember.
(32:39):
In that case, my dear sir, I shall be under
the painful necessity of advising you arrest. Lord Cantlemere was
very angry. Some of the ancient fires flickered up into
his sallow cheeks. You take a great liberty, mister Holmes.
In fifty years of official life, I cannot recall such
a case. I am a busy man, Sir, engaged upon
(33:03):
important affairs, and I have no time or taste for
foolish jokes. I may tell you, frankly, sir, that I
have never been a believer in your powers, and that
I have always been of the opinion that the matter
was far safer in the hands of the regular police force.
Your conduct confirms all my conclusions. I have the honorer
(33:23):
to wish you good evening. Holmes had swiftly changed his
position and was between the peer and the door. One moment,
Sir said he to actually go off, that the Mazarin's
Stone would be a more serious offense than to be
found in temporary possession of it. Sir, this is intolerable.
Let me pass. Put your hand in the right pocket
(33:43):
of your overcoat. What do you mean, sir? Come, Come,
do what I ask. An instant later, the amazed Peer
was standing, blinking and stammering, with the great yellow stone
on his shaking palm. Why what how is this, mister Holmes?
Too bad? Lord cantlemere, too bad, cried Holmes. My old
(34:05):
friend here will tell you that I have an impish
habit of practical joking, also that I can never resist
a dramatic situation. I took the liberty, the very great liberty,
I admit of putting the stone into your pocket. At
the beginning of our interview, the old peer stared from
the stone to the smiling face before him. Sir, I
(34:27):
am bewildered, but yes, it is indeed the Mazarin Stone.
We are greatly your debtors, mister Holmes. Your sense of
humor may, as you admit, be somewhat perverted, and its
exhibition remarkably untimely. But at least I withdraw any reflection
I have made upon your amazing professional powers. But how
(34:51):
the case is but half finished, the details can wait,
no doubt, Lord cantlemere. Your pleasure in telling of this
successful result in the exalted circle to which you return
will be some small atonement for my practical joke. Billy,
will you show his lordship out and tell Missus Hudson
that I should be glad if she would send up
(35:12):
dinner for two as soon as possible. End of the
Adventure of the Mazarin Stone.
Section three of the case Book of Sherlock Holmes by
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. This libvox according is in the
public domain. Read by Thomas Copeland, Story three, The Adventure
of the Mazarin Stone. It was pleasant to doctor Watson
to find himself once more in the untidy room of
the first floor in Baker Street, which had been the
(00:22):
starting point of so many remarkable adventures. He looked round
him at the scientific charts upon the wall, the acid
charred bench of chemicals, the violin case leaning in the corner,
the coal scuttle which contained of old the pipes and tobacco. Finally,
his eyes came round to the fresh and smiling face
of Billy, the young but very wise and tactful page,
(00:46):
who had helped a little to fill up the gap
of loneliness and isolation which surrounded the saturnine figure for
the great detective. It all seems very unchanged, Billy. You
don't change either, I hope the same can be said
of him. Billy glanced with some solicitude at the closed
door of the bedroom. I think he's in bed and
(01:08):
to sleep, he said. It was seven in the evening
of a lovely summer's day. But doctor Watson was sufficiently
familiar with the irregularity of his old friend's ours to
feel no surprise at the idea that means a case.
I suppose, Yes, sir, he is very hard at it.
Just now I'm frightened for his health. He gets paler
(01:30):
and thinner, and he eats nothing. When will you be
pleased to dine, mister Holmes, missus Hudson asked seven thirty
the day after to Morrow, said he you know his
way when he is keen on a case. Yes, Billy,
I know he's following some one. Yesterday he was out
as a workman looking for a job. To day he
(01:52):
was an old woman fairly took me, and he did,
and I ought to know his ways by now. Billy
pointed with a grin to a very baggy parasol which
leaned against the sofa. That's part of the old woman's outfit,
he said. But what is it all about, Billy? Billy
sank his voice as one who discusses great secrets of state.
(02:13):
I don't mind telling you, sir, but it should go
no farther. It's this case of the Crown Diamond. What
the hundred thousand Pound Burglary. Yes, sir, they must get
it back. Sir. Why we had the Prime Minister and
the Home Secretary both sitting on that very sofa. Mister
(02:34):
Holmes was very nice to them. You soon put them
at their ease and promised he would do all he could.
Then there is Lord Cantlemere. Ah, yes, sir, you know
what that means. He's a stiffen Sir. If I may
say so, I can get along with the Prime Minister,
and I've nothing against the Home Secretary, who seemed a
civil obliging sort of man, but I can't stand his lordship.
(02:57):
Neither can mister Holmes. Sir. You see, he don't believe
in mister Holmes, and he was against employing him. He
rather failed, and mister Holmes knows it. Mister Holmes always
knows whatever there is to know. Well, we'll hope he
won't fail, and that Lord Cantlemere will be confounded. But
(03:18):
I say, Billy, what is that curtain for crossed the window?
Mister Holmes had it put up there three days ago.
We've got something funny behind it. Billy advanced and drew
away the drapery which screened the alcove of the bow window.
Doctor Watson could not restrain a cry of amazement. There
was a facsimile of his old friend dressing gown, and
(03:41):
all the face turned three quarters towards the window and downwards,
as though reading an invisible book. While the body was
sunk deep in an arm chair. Billy detached the head
and held it in the air. We put it at
different angles so that it may seem more life like.
I wouldn't dare touch it if the blind were not down.
(04:02):
But when it's up. You can see this from across
the way. We used something of the sort once before,
before my time, said Billy. He drew the window curtains
apart and looked out into the street. There are folk
who watch us from over yonder. I can see a
fellow now at the window. Have a look for yourself.
(04:23):
Watson had taken a step forward when the bedroom door
opened and the long, thin form of homes emerged, his
face pale and drawn, but his step and bearing as
active as ever with a single spring. He was at
the window and had drawn the blind once more. That
will do, Billy said he. You were in danger of
your life, then, my boy, and I can't do without
(04:46):
you just yet, well, Watson, it is good to see
you in your old quarters. Once again. You come at
a critical moment, so I gather there you can go, Billy,
And that boy is a proper Watson. How far am
I justified in allowing him to be in danger? Danger
of what Holmes a sudden death? I am expecting something
(05:09):
this evening, expecting what to be murdered? Watson. No, No,
you are joking, homes Even my limited sense of humor
could evolve a better joke than that. But we may
be comfortable in the meantime, may we not? Is alcohol permitted?
The gasogene and cigars are in the old place. Let
(05:31):
me see you once more in the customary arm chair.
You have not, I hope, learned to despise my pipe
and my lamentable tobacco. It has to take the place
of food these days. But why not eat? Because the
faculties become refined when you start them. Why, surely, as
a doctor, my dear Watson, you must admit that what
(05:52):
your digestion gains in the way of blood supply is
so much lost to the brain. I am a brain, Watson.
The rest of me is mere appendix. Therefore it is
the brain I must consider but this danger, Holmes. Ah, Yes,
in case it should come off, it would perhaps be
as well that you should burden your memory with the
(06:15):
name and address of the murderer. You can give it
to Scotland Yard with my love and a parting blessing.
Silvius is the name, Count Negretto Silvius. Write it down, Man,
write it down one three six moor Side Gardens. N
w got it. Watson's honest face was twitching with anxiety.
(06:38):
He knew only too well the immense risks taken by Holmes,
and was well aware that what he said was more
likely to be under statement than exaggeration. Watson was always
the man of action, and he rose to the occasion.
Count me in Holmes, I have nothing to do for
a day or two. Your morals don't improve, Watson. You
(06:58):
have added fibbing to your other vices. You bear every
sign of the busy medical man, with calls on him
every hour, not such important ones. But can't you have
this fellow arrested? Yes, Watson, I could, That's what worries
him so. But why don't you? Because I don't know
where the diamond is? Ah, Billy told me the missing
(07:22):
crown jewel. Yes, the great yellow Mazarin stone. I've cast
my net and I half my fish, but I have
not got the stone. What is the use of taking them?
We can make the world a better place by laying
them by the heels, but that is not what I
am out for. It's the stone I won't And is
(07:44):
this Count Sylvius one of your fish? Yes? And he's
a shark he bites. The other is Sam Merton, the boxer.
Not a bad fellow, Sam, but the Count has used him.
Sam's not a shark. He is a great, big, bull
headed gudgeon. But he is flopping about in my net
all the same. Where is this Count Sylvius? I've been
(08:08):
at his very elbow all the morning. You've seen me
as an old lady, Watson, I was never more convincing.
He actually picked up my parasol for me once by leave,
Madame said. He half Italian, you know, and with the
southern graces of manner when in the mood, but a
devil incarnate in the other mood. Life is full of
(08:29):
whimsical happenings, Watson, it might have been tragedy, well, perhaps
it might. I followed him to Old straw Benzi's workshop,
in the mineries. Strabenzi made the air gun a very
pretty bit of work, as I understand, and I rather
fancy it is in the opposite window at the present moment.
(08:49):
Have you seen the dummy? Of course, Billy showed it
to you. Well, it may get a bullet through its
beautiful head at any moment, Ah, Billy, what is it?
The boy had reappeared in the room with a card
upon a tray. Holmes glanced at it with raised eyebrows
and an amused smile. The man himself, I had hardly
(09:10):
expected this grasp the nettle. Watson a man of nerve.
Possibly you have heard of his reputation as a shooter
of big game. It would indeed be a triumphant ending
to his excellent sporting record if he added me to
his bag. This is a proof that he feels my
toe very close behind his heel. Send for the police,
(09:33):
I probably shall, but not just yet. Would you glance
carefully out of the window, Watson, and see if any
one is hanging about in the street. Watson looked wearily
round the edge of the curtain. Yes, there is one
rough fellow near the door. That will be sam Merton,
the faithful but rather fatuous, Sam, Where is this gentleman
(09:55):
Billy in the waiting room, Sir? Show him up when
I ring, Yes, sir, if I am not in the room,
show him in all the same, Yes, sir. Watson waited
until the door was closed, and then he turned earnestly
to his companion. Look here, Holmes, this is simply impossible.
This is a desperate man who sticks at nothing. He
(10:17):
may have come to murder you. I should not be surprised.
I insist upon staying with you. You would be horribly
in the way, in his way. No, my dear fellow,
in my way. Well, I can't possibly leave you. Yes
you can, Watson, and you will, for you have never
failed to play the game. I am sure you will
(10:38):
play it to the end. This man has come for
his own purpose, but he may stay for mine. Holmes
took out his note book and scribbled a few lines.
Take a cab to Scotland Yard and give this to you.
Gall up the c I d come back with the police.
The fellow's arrest will follow. I'll do that with joy.
(10:58):
Before you return. I may have just time enough to
find out where the stone is. He touched the bell.
I think we will go out through the bedroom. The
second exit is exceedingly useful. I rather want to see
my shark without his seeing me, and I have, as
you will remember, my own way of doing it. It
(11:19):
was therefore an empty room into which Billy a minute
later ushered. Count Sylvius, the famous game shop sportsman and
man about town, was a big, swarthy fellow with a
formidable dark mustache, shading a cruel, thin lipped mouth, and
surmounted by a long curved nose like the beak of
an eagle. He was well dressed, but his brilliant necktie,
(11:41):
shining pin, and glittering rings were flamboyant in their effect.
As the door closed behind him, he looked round him
with fierce, startled eyes, like one who suspects a trap
at every turn. Then he gave a violent start as
he saw the impassive head and the collar of the
dressing gown, which projected a bow, the arm chair in
the window. At first his expression was one of pure amazement.
(12:06):
Then the light of a horrible hope gleamed in his dark,
murderous eyes. He took one more glance round to see
that there were no witnesses, and then, on tip toe,
his thick stick half raised, he approached the silent figure
he was crouching for his final spring and blow, when
a cool, sardonic voice greeted him from the open bedroom door,
(12:28):
and don't break it, Count, don't break it. The assassin
staggered back, amazement in his convulsed face. For an instant
he half raised his loaded cane once more, as if
he would turn his violence from the effigy to the original.
But there was something in that steady gray eye and
mocking smile which caused his hand to sink to his side.
(12:50):
It's a pretty little thing, said Holmes, advancing towards the image.
De Vernier, the French modeler, made it. He is as
good at waxworks as your friend Stroud at air guns.
Air guns, sir, what do you mean? Put your hat
and stick on the side table, Thank you, pray, take
a seat? Would you care to put your revolver out? Also? Oh,
(13:13):
very good? If you have heard a sit upon it.
Your visit is really most opportune, for I wanted badly
to have a few minutes chat with you, The Count scowled,
with heavy threatening eyebrows. I too wished to have some
words with you, Holmes, that is why I am here.
I won't deny that I intended to assault you just now,
(13:34):
Holmes swung his leg on the edge of the table.
I rather gathered that you had some idea of the
sort in your head, said he. But why these personal attentions,
because you have gone out of your way to annoy me,
because you have put your creatures upon my track. My creatures,
I assure you, no nonsense. I have had them followed.
(13:56):
Two can play at that game, Holmes. It is a
small point, Count Sylvius, But perhaps you would kindly give
me my prefix when you address me. You can understand
that with my routine of work, I should find myself
on familiar terms with half the rogue's gallery, and you
will agree that exceptions are invidious. Well, mister Holmes, then excellent,
(14:20):
But I assure you you are mistaken about my alleged agents,
Count Sylvius laughed contemptuously. Other people can observe as well
as you. Yesterday there was an old sporting man. To
day it was an elderly woman. They held me in
view all day. Really, sir, you compliment me. Old Baron
Dowson said the night before he was hanged that in
(14:42):
my case for the law had gained, the stage had lost,
and now you give my little impersonations your kindly praise.
It was you, you, yourself, Holmes shrugged his shoulders. You
can see in the corner the parasaw which you so
politely handed to me in the minneries before you began
to suspect. If I had known, you might never have
(15:06):
seen this humble abode. Again, I was well aware of it.
We all have neglected opportunities to deplore. As it happens,
you did not know. So here we are. The Count's
knotted brows gathered more heavily over his menacing eyes. But
you say only makes the matter worse. It was not
(15:26):
your agent's but your play acting Busyboddy's self. You admit
that you have dogged me. Why come now, Count, you
used to shoot lions in Algeria? Well, but why why
the sport, the excitement, the danger, and no doubt to
free the country from a pest? Exactly my reasons in
(15:49):
a nutshell. The Count sprang to his feet, and his
hand involuntarily moved back to his hip pocket. Sit down, sir,
sit down. There was another more practic reason I want
that yellow diamond, Count Sylvius lay back in his chair
with an evil smile upon my word, said he you
(16:11):
knew that I was after you for that. The real
reason why you are here to night is to find
out how much I know about the matter, and how
far my removal is absolutely essential. Well, I should say
that from your point of view, it is absolutely essential,
for I know all about it save only one thing,
which you are about to tell me. Oh, indeed, and pray,
(16:33):
what is this missing fact? Where the crown diamond now is?
The Count looked sharply at his companion. Oh you ought
to know that, do you? How the devil should I
be able to tell you where it is? You can,
and you will. Indeed, you coun't bluff me, Count Sylvia's
Holmes's eyes, as he gazed at him, contracted and lightened
(16:56):
until they were like two menacing points of steel. You
are absolute plate glass. I see to the very back
of your mind. Then of course you see where the
diamond is. Holmes clapped his hands with amusement, and then
pointed a derisive finger. Then you do know who have
(17:17):
admitted it? I admit nothing now. Count. If you will
be reasonable, we can do business. If not, you will
get hurt. Count, Sylvius threw up his eyes to the ceiling,
and you talk about block, said he. Holmes looked at
him thoughtfully, like a master chess player who meditates his crowning. Moved.
(17:39):
Then he threw open the table drawer and drew out
a squat note book. Do you know what I keep
in this book? No, sir, I do not you me, Yes, you, sir,
You are all here, every action of your vile and
dangerous life. Damn you, Holmes, cried the Count with blazing eyes.
(18:01):
There are limits to my patients. It's all here, Count.
The real fact says to the death of old missus Harold,
who left you the Blimer estate which you so rapidly
gambled away you are dreaming, and the complete life history
of miss Minnie Warrender tut you will make nothing of that.
Plenty more here, Count, there is the robbery in the
(18:23):
train de Luxe to the Riviera on February thirteenth, eighteen
ninety two. Here is the forged check in the same
year on the Treglionet. No you're wrong there, then I
am right on the others now, Count, you are a
card player when the other fellow has all the trumps.
(18:43):
It saves time to throw down your hand. What does
all this talk to do with a jewel of which
you spoke? Gently, Count, restrain your eager mind. Let me
get to the points in my own pub drum fashion.
I have all this against you, but above all, I
have a clear case against both you and your fighting
bully in the case of the grown Diamond. Indeed, I
(19:06):
have the cabman who took you to Whitehall and the
cabman who brought you away. I have the commissionaire who
saw you near the case. I have Ike Sanders, who
refused to cut it up for you. Ike has peached,
and the game is up. The veins stood out on
the Count's for it. His dark, hairy hands were clenched
in a convulsion of restrained emotion. He tried to speak,
(19:29):
but the words would not shape themselves. That's the hand
I play from, said Holmes. I put it all upon
the table, but one card is missing. It's the King
of Diamonds. I don't know where the stone is. You
never shall know. No, Now, be reasonable, Count, consider the situation.
(19:50):
You are going to be locked up for twenty years,
so is sam Merton. What good are you going to
get from out of your diamond none in the world.
But if you hand it over, well I'll compound a felony.
We don't want you or Sam, we want the stone.
Give that up, and so far as I am concerned,
(20:11):
you can go free so long as you behave yourself
in the future. If you make another slip, well it
will be the last. But this time my commission is
to get the stone, not you. But if I refuse,
why then alas it must be you and not the stone.
Billy had appeared in answer to a ring. I think
(20:33):
Count that it would be as well to have your
friend Sam at this conference, After all, his interests should
be represented. Billy, you will see a large and ugly
gentleman outside the front door. Ask him to come up.
If you won't come, sir, no violence, Billy, don't be
rough with him. If you tell him that Count Sylvius
wants him, he will certainly come. What are you going
(20:55):
to do now, asked the Count as Billy disappeared. My
friend Watson was with me just now. I told him
that I had a shark and a gudgeon in my net.
Now I am drawing the net, and up they come together.
The Count had risen from his chair and his hand
was behind his back. Holmes held something half protruding from
(21:15):
the pocket of his dressing gown. You won't die in
your bed, Holmes, I have often had the same idea.
Does it matter very much? After all? Count your own
exit is more likely to be perpendicular than horizontal. Mark
These anticipations of the future a morbid Why not give
(21:37):
ourselves up to the unrestrained enjoyment of the present? A sudden,
wild beast light sprang up in the dark, menacing eyes
of the master criminal. Holmes's figure seemed to grow taller
as he grew tense and ready. It is no use
your fingering your revolver, my friend, he said in a
quiet voice. You know perfectly well that you dare not
(21:59):
use it, even if I gave you time to draw it.
Nasty noisy things. Revolvers count better to stick to air guns. Ah,
I think I hear the fairy footstep of your estimable partner.
Good day, mister Merton. Rather dull in the street, is
it not? The prize fighter, A heavily built young man
with a stupid, obstinate, slab sided face, stood awkwardly at
(22:23):
the door, looking about him with a puzzled expression. Holmes's
debonair manner was a new experience, and though he vaguely
felt that it was hostile, he did not know how
to counter it. He turned to his more astute comrade
for help. What's the game now, Count horses Fellow on
what's up? His voice was deep and raucous. The Count
(22:46):
shrugged his shoulders, and it was Holmes who answered, if
I may put it in a nutshell, mister Merton, I
should say it was all up. The boxer still addressed
his remarks to his associate. Is this cove trying to
be funny or what? I am? Not in the funny
move myself? No, I expect not, said Holmes. I think
(23:07):
I can promise you that you will feel even less
humorous as the evening advances. Now, look here, Count Sylvis,
I'm a busy man and I can't waste time. I
am going into that bedroom. Pray, make yourselves quite at home.
In my absence. You can explain to your friend how
the matter lies. Without the restraint of my presence. I
shall try over the Hoffman Barker roll upon my violin.
(23:29):
In five minutes I shall return for your final answer.
You quite grasped the alternative, do you not, shall we
take you? Or shall we have the stone? Holmes withdrew,
picking up his violin from the corner as he passed.
A Few moments later, the long drawn wailing notes of
that most haunting of tunes came faintly through the closed
(23:50):
door of the bedroom. What is it, then, asked Merton anxiously,
as his companion turned to him. Does he know about
the stone? He knows a sight too much about it.
I'm not sure that he doesn't know all about it?
Good lord, The box's sallow face turned to shade whiter.
Ikey Sanders has split on us. He has as he
(24:12):
I'll do him down a thicken for that. If I
swing for it. That won't help us much. We've got
to make up our minds what to do. Have em o,
said the boxer, looking suspiciously at the bedroom door. Is
a leery cove that wants watching. I suppose he's not listening.
How can he be listening with that music going? That's right,
(24:35):
Maybe somebody's behind the curtain. Too many curtains in this room.
As he looked round, he suddenly saw for the first
time the effigy in the window and stood staring and
pointing to amaze for words. Tut, it's only a dummy,
said the count. A fake, is it? Well? Strike me
madam too, so ain't in it? It's the living spit
(24:56):
of him gown and all but them curtains gowned, Oh,
confound the curtains. We are wasting our time and there
is none too much. He can lag us over this
stone the juice he can, but he'll let us slip
if we only tell him where the swag is. What
give it up? Give up a hundred thousand quid. It's
(25:17):
one or the other. Merton scratched his short cropped pate.
He's alone in there. Let's do him in. If his
light were out, we should have nothing to hear. The
Count shook his head. He is armed and ready. If
we shot him, we could hardly get away in a
place like this. Besides, it's likely enough that the police
know whatever evidence he has got. Hump, No, what was that?
(25:42):
There was a vague sound which seemed to come from
the window. Both men sprang round, but all was quiet
save for the one strange figure seated in the chair.
The room was certainly empty. Dumping in the street, said Merton.
Now look here, gov'nor, you've got the brain, and surely
you can think a way out of it. If slugging
(26:03):
is no use, then it's up to you. I fooled
better men than he, the Count answered. The stone is
here in my secret pocket. I take no chance as
leaving it about. It can be out of England to
night and cut into four pieces in Amsterdam before Sunday.
He knows nothing of Van Saddar. I thought Van Sadar
(26:24):
was going next week. He was, But now he must
get off by the next boat. One or other of
us must slip round with a stone to Lime Street
and tell him. But the false border mate ready, Well,
he must take it as it is and chance it.
But not a moment to lose again with a sense
of danger which becomes an instinct with a sportsman. He
(26:45):
paused and looked hard at the window. Yes, it was
surely from the street that the faint sound had come.
As to Holmes, he continued, we can fool him easily enough,
you see, the damned fool won't arrest us if he
can get the stone. Well, we'll promise in the stone
we'll put him on the wrong track about it, and
(27:05):
before he finds that it is the wrong track. It
will be in Holland and we out of the country.
That sounds good to me, cried Sam Merton, with a grin.
You go on and tell the Dutchman to get a
move on him. I'll see this sucker and fill him
up with a bogus confession. I'll tell him that the
stone is in Liverpool. Confound that whining music had guess
(27:27):
on my nerves. By the time he finds it isn't
in Liverpool, it will be in Quarters and we on
the blue water. Come back here out of a line
with that keyhole. Here is the stone. I wonder your
dear carry it? Where could I have it safer? If
we could take it out of Whitehall? Some one else
could surely take it out of my lodgings. Let's have
(27:50):
a look at it. Count Sylvius cast a somewhat unflattering
glance at his associate and disregarded the unwashed hand which
was extended towards him. What do you think I'm going
to snatch it off? You see here, mister, I'm getting
a bit tired of your ways. Well, well, no offense, Sam,
we can't afford to quarrel. Come over to the window.
(28:12):
If you want to see the beauty properly, now hold
it to the light here. Thank you. With a single spring,
Holmes had leaped from the dummy's chair and had grasped
the precious jewel. He held it now in one hand,
while his other pointed a revolver at the Count's head.
The two villains staggered back in utter amazement. Before they
(28:33):
had recovered, Holmes had pressed the electric bell. No violence, gentlemen,
no violence, I beg of you. Consider the furniture. It
must be very clear to you that your position is
an impossible one. The police are waiting below. The Count's
bewilderment overmastered his rage and fear. But how the deuce
he gasped. Your surprise is very natural. You are not
(28:57):
aware that a second door from my bedroom the behind
that curtain. I fancied that you must have heard me
when I displaced the figure, but luck was on my side.
It gave me a chance of listening to your racy conversation,
which would have been painfully constrained had you been aware
of my presence. The Count gave a gesture of resignation.
(29:19):
We give you best, Holmes. I believe you are the
devil himself not far from him at any rate, Holmes
answered with a polite smile. Sam Merton's slow intellect had
only gradually appreciated the situation. Now as the sound of
heavy steps came from the stairs outside, evoke silence. At last,
(29:40):
a fair cock said he but I say, what about
that bloom and fiddle? I hear it yet? Tut tut,
Holmes answered, you are perfectly right. Let it play. These
modern gramophones are a remarkable invention. There was an in
rush of police. The handcuffs clicked, and their criminals were
led to the waiting cab. Watson lingered with Holmes, congratulating
(30:03):
him upon this fresh leaf added to his laurels. Once more,
the conversation was interrupted by the imperturbable Billy with his
card tray. Lord Candlemere, sir, show him up, Billy. This
is the eminent peer who represents the very highest interests,
said Holmes. He is an excellent and loyal person. But
(30:23):
rather of the old regime, shall we make him unbend?
Dare we venture upon us slight liberty? He knows we
may conjecture nothing of what has occurred. The door opened
to admit a thin austere figure with a hatchet face
and drooping mid Victorian whiskers of a glossy blackness which
hardly corresponded with the rounded shoulders and feeble gait. Holmes
(30:46):
advanced affably and shook an unresponsive hand. I'll you do,
Lord Candlemere. It is chilly for the time of year,
but rather warm indoors. May I take your overcoat? No,
I thank you, I will not take it off. Holmes
laid his hand insistently upon the sleeve. Pray allow me,
(31:06):
My friend doctor Watson would assure you that these changes
of temperature are most insidious. His lordship shook himself free
with some impatience. I am quite comfortable, sir. I have
no need to stay. I have simply looked in to
know how your self appointed task was progressing. It is difficult,
and very difficult. I feared that you would find it so.
(31:30):
There was a distinct sneer in the old courtier's words
and manner. Every man finds his limitations, mister Holmes, but
at least it cures us of the weakness of self satisfaction. Yes, Sir,
I have been much perplexed, no doubt, especially upon one point.
Possibly you could help me upon it. You apply from
(31:52):
my advice rather late in the day, I thought that
you had your own all sufficient methods. Still I am
ready to help you. You see, Lord Cantlemere, we can
no doubt frame a case against the actual thieves when
you have caught them exactly. But the question is, how
shall we proceed against the receiver? Is this not rather premature?
(32:17):
It is as well to have our plans ready. Now.
What would you regard as final evidence against the receiver?
The actual possession of the stone? You would arrest him
upon that most undoubtedly. Holmes seldom laughed, but he got
as near it as his old friend Watson could remember.
(32:39):
In that case, my dear sir, I shall be under
the painful necessity of advising you arrest. Lord Cantlemere was
very angry. Some of the ancient fires flickered up into
his sallow cheeks. You take a great liberty, mister Holmes.
In fifty years of official life, I cannot recall such
a case. I am a busy man, Sir, engaged upon
(33:03):
important affairs, and I have no time or taste for
foolish jokes. I may tell you, frankly, sir, that I
have never been a believer in your powers, and that
I have always been of the opinion that the matter
was far safer in the hands of the regular police force.
Your conduct confirms all my conclusions. I have the honorer
(33:23):
to wish you good evening. Holmes had swiftly changed his
position and was between the peer and the door. One moment,
Sir said he to actually go off, that the Mazarin's
Stone would be a more serious offense than to be
found in temporary possession of it. Sir, this is intolerable.
Let me pass. Put your hand in the right pocket
(33:43):
of your overcoat. What do you mean, sir? Come, Come,
do what I ask. An instant later, the amazed Peer
was standing, blinking and stammering, with the great yellow stone
on his shaking palm. Why what how is this, mister Holmes?
Too bad? Lord cantlemere, too bad, cried Holmes. My old
(34:05):
friend here will tell you that I have an impish
habit of practical joking, also that I can never resist
a dramatic situation. I took the liberty, the very great liberty,
I admit of putting the stone into your pocket. At
the beginning of our interview, the old peer stared from
the stone to the smiling face before him. Sir, I
(34:27):
am bewildered, but yes, it is indeed the Mazarin Stone.
We are greatly your debtors, mister Holmes. Your sense of
humor may, as you admit, be somewhat perverted, and its
exhibition remarkably untimely. But at least I withdraw any reflection
I have made upon your amazing professional powers. But how
(34:51):
the case is but half finished, the details can wait,
no doubt, Lord cantlemere. Your pleasure in telling of this
successful result in the exalted circle to which you return
will be some small atonement for my practical joke. Billy,
will you show his lordship out and tell Missus Hudson
that I should be glad if she would send up
(35:12):
dinner for two as soon as possible. End of the
Adventure of the Mazarin Stone.
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