I won't forget
that morning.
Not if I live to be 100.
I counted the men as they
marched out of the Yard.
They'd hardly
slept for weeks.
We at the CID had
slept even less.
For the nightmare
that kept us awake
was all the
same nightmare.
That's why we
weren't surprised
when the Commissioner
had asked us up to
the conference room
for a bit of a talk.
He would talk to us
plenty. We knew that.
It didn't help any
to know what
was ahead of us.
Must we have that
window open. Gregson?
Oh shut it if you want to.
The Chief will be in
enough of a temper
without having
a ruddy blast
down the back of his neck!
Gentlemen.
The Commissioner.
Stuffy in here.
Be seated. Won't you?
Gentlemen.
If you wish to know
what able men you are.
Read any of the works
of popular fiction
that glamorize
your achievement
but don't. I beg of you.
Read the daily papers.
They might give you
an inferiority complex.
I hate to mention it.
But we're confronted
with a series of
the most atrocious murders
since Jack the Ripper.
And in the meantime.
The CID might as well be
playing at (unintelligible)
For all the good
we've accomplished.
Now. look...
here. Here and here.
Each of these red flags
scattered through the city
stands for a woman
brutally murdered.
A woman's terror.
A woman's death agony.
These are no
ordinary crimes.
These are the works of
a fiend who kills first
and mutilates afterwards.
A ghoul who hacks off a
part of his victim's body
and carries
it away with him.
A loathsome souvenir
of his butchery.
Three women
murdered so far.
And you haven't
turned in one clue.
You haven't
given me one lead.
Here you sit and wait for
news of a fourth victim
with your arms folded.
Well. We hadn't
long to wait.
It was down
Lamberth Way where
a young woman
was hurrying home
late last night.
She saw
something and stopped.
It was a Constable.
He spoke to her.
And he walked along
with her just in case.
He saw her go
down the stairway
to the basement
lodging where she lived.
I can only surmise
what happened after that.
So I put my
pride in my pocket
and went to see the man
that so often helped out
Inspector Lestrade
and myself in the past
Mr. Sherlock Holmes.
If ever a man
needed help. I did.
This makes
four. Inspector.
Four defenseless women
here in the
heart of London.
And every one
with the right
forefinger hacked off.
Not hacked.
Inspector Gregson.
Cleanly. Expertly severed.
The work of a
skilled surgeon.
That's our only clue.
Much about the age
of my sister's girl.
Is there no way of
stopping this Mr. Holmes?
Yes. There's
a way somehow.
A fiend did this.
I promise. I promise.
We've nothing go on.
That's the
rotten part of it.
We can't get far
without knowing
the motive.
Well. At least we know
what the motives were not.
It wasn't robbery nor
passion. Nor vengeance.
Because they
all came at totally
unrelated families.
Steady Inspector. Steady.
Sorry. Mr. Holmes.
I don't turn a hair
when it's a bloke that
can protect himself.
But a little slip
of a thing like that.
Yes. It's horrible.
Come on.
Let's get a drink.
Good evening.
Mr. Holmes.
Good evening. Vincent.
Whiskey and soda. Please.
And a double for my friend
here. Inspector Gregson.
There you go. Sir.
Make mine Irish.
It's noble to give
me a hand on this
thing. Mr. Holmes.
Always a pleasure to
be of help to Scotland
Yard. Inspector.
A little out of my line.
looking for a maniac
that murders just for
the fun of the hunt.
Or perhaps just to
get a human finger.
In all four cases.
The murderer
risks capture.
By stopping to
secure a finger.
And what for?
Who knows?
He's just a madman.
Perhaps there's a
method in his madness.
If we could just trace
those missing fingers.
If?
If we could just drain
the English Channel.
We might find a penny.
Oh. Thank you.
You may keep
those. Mr. Holmes.
Thank you.
Sir George Fenwick.
Isn't it?
Yes.
Is that his
daughter with him?
Don't be so
naive. Inspector.
You know everyone.
Don't you darling?
Well. Hardly.
A week ago.
I didn't know you.
A week.
How fast it's gone.
I collect these things.
How very quaint of you.
Shall we go?
Yes.
What are you looking
at. Mr. Holmes?
Looking at a very
handsome woman.
Not fond of the purple.
But giving an
excellent invitation.
Would you like to come to
my flat for a nightcap?
Lovely idea.
Yes. Isn't it?
I wonder where she's
taking Sir George Fenwick?
Don't be so
naive. Mr. Holmes.
Good evening. Mum.
Hello. Crandon.
Any messages?
No. Mum.
Thank you.
Uh. Drinks. Crandon...
one of your
nice surprises.
Yes. Mum.
I say. you
don't mean that...
Crandon's a marvel.
Aren't you Crandon?
Yes. Mum.
You wouldn't believe
the things she can do.
Hmm.
Ah. Charming
place. Delightful.
Really. you think so?
I'm so glad.
Do sit down.
Do you mind?
Do I mind?
What a question.
I don't mind
anything. Really.
Except not being with you.
Now. you really
don't want me to
believe that. Do you?
Not too seriously.
Good.
We're both quite
grown up. Aren't we?
Quite.
You're a
treasure. Crandon.
And lower the lights
a little as you leave.
I prefer a more
flattering light.
In any light. you'd be...
Would I?
And don't you know it.
Perhaps I do.
Oh. That priceless woman.
You wouldn't believe it.
But she's
absurdly romantic.
She loves dreamy music.
And she thinks that we...
But we do. Don't we?
Do we?
Well. It's rather
soothing. Restful.
Yes.
And we all need
rest at times.
Like tired children
who played too long.
You've played with wooden
soldiers. I suppose?
Funny. Hadn't thought
of that for years.
Toy boats were
my special joy.
Anything I could
set afloat anywhere.
Like this. And this.
Toy boats sailing into
the never-never land.
The land of
beautiful dreams.
Look.
Look odd. Isn't it. How
the light is reflected.
Little specks of light
that move and move.
Like stars on a
slowly-moving stream.
You know Holmes I'm very
sensitive to atmosphere.
Oh?
Yes I can tell by
the feel of this room
there's been a
murder committed here.
It may interest you to
know. My dear fellow.
It was at the other
side of that door
at the foot of the
stairs that the poor
girl was murdered.
If only I could find it.
Find what?
The one thing
these unfortunate
victims have in common
that might give us a
motive for these murders.
There must be something.
Another Jack the Ripper.
If you ask me
a homicidal maniac.
No. Watson. In the
case of Jack the Ripper.
There was one
thing in common.
His victims were all
from one walk of life.
Living in the same
section of the city.
In this case. The murderer
chooses his victims
from all walks of life
and from different
sections of the city.
No. My dear fellow.
This is not the work
of a homicidal maniac.
It's something
infinitely more sinister.
You're giving
me the creeps.
What on earth are
you talking about?
Watson. I'm convinced
that these murders
are only incidental
to some larger and
more diabolical scheme.
That may be. But
why the severed fingers?
The answer to that
question. My dear fellow.
Is our only hope of
solving these mysteries.
Dear Sister. I am so happy
I had such a lovely
Holiday at Brighton
with you and Alph.
And I'm looking forward
to being with you again.
Poor little thing.
Sort of raises a
lump in your throat.
I can picture
her sitting here
happily writing
this letter
and not a bit realizing
that she's shortly
going to her death.
Hello.
Gregson.
Oh. There you are.
Mr. Holmes.
I've been looking
for you everywhere.
What's happened?
Murder in Edgeware Road.
Not half an hour ago.
Woman?
Yes. And the right
forefinger cut off clean.
(Newspaper vendor
hawking his paper)
Morning Paper,
all about the murder,
Paper, horrible murder.
Another young woman
found murdered, paper sir.
Korrible murder, paper,
paper, read all about it.
On me fancy. Mum.
There's been another of
those horrible murders.
Dear. Dear. How shocking.
Yes. Mum.
I really don't feel
quite safe here myself.
(Doorbell)
Oh. Dear.
Why. Sir George!
I must see
Miss Marlow at once.
I don't know if she's...
I must see her.
Where is she?
Lydia.
Why. Sir George!
What is it. What happened?
I don't know.
You'll have to help me.
You've got to help me!
But I don't understand.
Listen. I woke up
a few minutes ago
in a cheap
boardinghouse
off Edgeware Road.
I don't know
how I came there.
I don't know when.
The last thing I remember
is being here with you.
Calm yourself. Sir George.
When did I leave here?
Well. It was
about. Uh. Uh...
It was 10:45.
Mum. Precisely.
You seemed.
Forgive me.
Just a little
bit distressed.
Detached. Not interested.
I thought I'd said
something to offend you.
I don't remember.
I can't remember.
Tell me. Has this
happened to you before?
Before?
Well. There
is such a thing as
amnesia. you know?
If it was 10:45
when I left you.
It was 9:00 this
morning when I woke.
Over ten hours lost.
Ten hours that
I can't account for.
And in my pocket
when I awoke. I found.
Here in my pocket.
(Doorbell)
That... that isn't...
Oh. It's not
for you. Of course.
It can't be.
Excuse me. Mum.
But there's a man asking
to see the gentleman.
Send him away.
Yes. Mum.
No. No. No. Please.
I'll see him.
Well?
Delightful room.
Not much like the place
you woke up
in this morning.
You followed me here?
Yes.
Are you a detective?
Oh. No.
Quite the contrary.
Don't be afraid.
Sir George.
You know my name?
Oh. yes.
A very old and
highly-honored name.
And being the
bearer of such a name.
And also a
very wealthy man.
I thought you
might care to possess
yourself this trifle.
Rather than
let it fall into the
hands of the police.
It's yours.
If I'm not mistaken.
The initials "GF"?
Where did you get this?
It came out
of your pocket.
I saw it fall.
But you never noticed.
You were very busy.
Bending over something.
With a knife.
Then you put
something in your pocket.
Come along. Holmes.
Come along. Come along.
How many more times
must I tell you.
You're missing a treat.
This is delicious.
Little jam
tarts to follow.
Aren't you tempted?
Hmm.
You and your fish Watson.
They tell me that fish
is good for the brains.
Brains. I haven't any.
You realize that a day.
A whole day and a
night have gone by
since that bestial
affair in Edgeware Road?
I'm as much in
the dark as ever.
Hello. Here comes a client
unless I'm very
much mistaken.
Well. Attractive.
very attractive.
Obviously. She left home
under the stress of
some very great emotion.
How do you know that?
She isn't
wearing any gloves.
A startling omission on
a young lady of fashion.
Well. She didn't
put her coat on.
Open car. Too.
Furthermore. There's
something in that bag
she wants to show me.
What makes you say that?
The bag doesn't
match her dress.
And again. It
was picked for size
rather than style
to accommodate
some bulky object.
You amaze me Holmes.
Elementary my dear fellow.
Well. That's interesting.
What is?
That cab.
At the empty house.
I wonder why he's
followed her here?
Well wouldn't you?
Watson. Give
me the glasses.
(Knock on the door)
Well we shall soon know.
Yes Mrs. Hudson?
It's a young lady
sir. Most urgent.
Ask her to come in.
Go right in. Miss.
Mr. Holmes?
Yes. This is my
friend. Dr. Watson.
How do you do?
How do you do?
Mr. Holmes. you must
excuse me. Please. I...
Yes. Well.
Won't you sit down?
Come along.
May I?
It's quite alright.
Now. Try to control
yourself. Miss Fenwick.
you're with friends.
You know my name?
No magic. I assure you.
I've often seen
your picture.
You're the daughter of
Sir George Fenwick.
Aren't you?
Yes.
It's about my
father that I...
What about your
father. Ms. Fenwick?
Oh. I don't
know what to do.
He's always been the
nicest. Dearest person.
Only since Mother died...
Yes. yes. We know.
So I didn't think
anything of it
when he was away
the night before last.
But he didn't come home
until yesterday
at teatime.
Didn't come in
for dinner at all.
Just paced up and
down in the library.
Hour after hour.
I begged him to let me in.
But he wouldn't!
Steady. Steady.
Now. Take your time.
I couldn't sleep
a wink last night.
Then I started
hearing things.
Hearing things.
What sort of things?
I heard someone
in the garden
underneath my window.
Then I saw a figure moving
down the garden path.
And I recognized
my father.
Stealing through his
own garden like a thief.
He had a spade
in his hand.
And he stopped
by the greenhouse
where he started to dig.
This morning at daybreak.
I strolled on
to the garden.
And found this.
A finger.
A human finger.
Ring up Scotland Yard.
Will you. Watson?
Ask them to get a hold
of Inspector Gregson.
And tell him to
meet us at once at
Sir George Fenwick's
house in Kingston.
Operator?
Give me
Scotland Yard. Quick!
Where's my
father. Norris?
He's still in the
library. Miss.
Thank you. We'll
see him right away.
Will you come
with me. Please?
Thank you.
I got your message.
Mr. Holmes.
Yes. Indeed.
Dad. May I come in?
Dad?
That's funny.
He doesn't answer.
Do you mind?
Please do.
Thank you.
Watson. Quick!
Oh. No. No. No. No!
Take charge of
Miss Fenwick. Please.
Come along with me.
Dead?
Yes.
What do you make
of it. Doctor?
Shot in the back.
Between the second
and third ribs.
The bullet undoubtedly
penetrated the heart.
Look at the powder
marks on his coat.
I was afraid of this.
What do you mean?
Don't you remember
the man in the cab
who followed Miss
Fenwick to Baker Street?
Well. you don't think
he had anything
to do with it. Do you?
Well. I think it's
reasonable to assume
that he tipped off someone
that I've been sent for.
Sir George has
obviously been murdered
to keep him from
telling me what he knew.
What was the weapon used?
Small caliber revolver.
Point-blank range by
the look of the wound.
The murderer came in
through those
French windows.
Look at the mud
from the garden
he brought in
on his boots.
Sir George must have
surprised the intruder
and crossed the
room to him here.
What follows.
We can't tell.
But from the
location of the wound.
I'd say that he turned
his back for a moment.
And as he turned.
The muzzle of
the revolver was
placed between his ribs
and one muffled
shot fired.
And you mean to
say he kept on going
even after he was shot?
There's no
doubt about it.
Look there.
A trail of blood leads
us back to the desk.
There's something
Sir George was after.
Some thing.
I know. He was trying to
summon help. Poor chap.
I don't think so. Watson.
There's the bell pull
by the fireplace.
No. you'll notice from
the trail of blood
that Sir George
made straight
for this desk here.
I wonder...
there was something
he was desperately
anxious to get.
Hello? His right
hand is clenched.
That's perfectly natural.
The left hand lies open.
Why only one hand clenched
in the death agony.
The right hand. The
hand nearest the desk.
Please note that.
If Sir George took
something off this desk.
Something so important
that he spilled his last
drop of blood to get it.
I want to know what it is.
It's nothing but an
ordinary match folder.
Where does that lead us?
I imagine to something
very important. Gregson.
This match folder is
from Pembroke House.
Why shouldn't it be?
He was there. you know?
We saw him yesterday.
Yes. But the effort he
made after he was shot
to get hold of
this match folder.
It's just possible.
He wanted someone to
remember Pembroke House.
He may have wished to
recall it to someone
who saw him there.
Someone who...
like ourselves.
Saw him with a woman.
(Knock on door)
Come in.
Oh. Dr. Watson.
This came by hand
for Mr. Holmes
not ten minutes ago.
Thank you. Mrs. Hudson.
That would be the report
from Sir George's bank.
Oh. Really?
Don't you remember
his daughter told us
that he just
closed his account?
Had it looked
into at once.
He drew out his
entire balance in cash.
Nearly 10.000 pounds.
yesterday.
Just after that young
woman was murdered.
What does that
suggest to you. Watson?
That he paid
it out to someone.
Precisely.
I smell the faint.
Sweet odor of blackmail.
You don't think
he paid it out to someone
who saw him murder
the McLean woman?
Sir George never
murdered anyone.
But he did have
that woman's finger.
And he did have to
pay out a lot of cash.
That's the terrifying part
about blackmail. Watson.
The victim is afraid
to fight the accusation
no matter how false.
Once the
accusation is made.
The name is smeared.
And sometimes
his life is ruined.
Well. If Sir George
didn't commit
these murders.
What fiend did?
I rather think
they're not the
work of any one man.
Oh. Come Holmes. you
don't expect me to believe
there's a whole
organization going
about killing people
and chopping
off their fingers?
Well. It's possible.
Quite possible.
Well. Whoever's
behind all this thing
must be out of his mind.
On the contrary.
My dear fellow.
If my assumptions
are correct.
This little scheme
has behind it
the most brilliant
and ruthless intellect
the world has ever known.
You don't mean
Professor Moriarity?
I do.
Oh. Steady. Holmes. you've
got him on the brain.
This is the third time
in as many months
you've suspected him
of unsolved crimes.
He's dead. you know?
Is he?
You know he is.
He was hanged in Montevido
well over a year ago.
I heard that someone
was hanged in Montevido
under that name.
But I'll stake
my reputation
that Moriarity is alive
and here. Now. In London.
(Phone ringing)
Hello?
Yes...
Dr. Watson. Wait a minute.
Who. Me?
Well. yes.
This is
Dr. Watson speaking.
No. No. I'm
afraid I've retired.
I don't practice anymore.
What?
Oh. That's a
different thing.
An emergency case.
Well. Just a minute.
Yes.
Yes. Well. See that
she's not moved.
Remember that.
Don't touch her
'til I get there.
Fractured...
in McArthur Mews
heavy woman.
Dust.
Just the sort of person
who wouldn't hoist
herself up on a stool
to feed the canary.
There ought to be a
law against fat people
keeping little
dickey birds.
So long. Old man.
I shan't be very long.
Haven't used that bag
since I brought
little Amelia Watson
into the world.
She grew up to be a
very unattractive child.
Huh. Who wouldn't
with a name like Amelia.
Amelia. Huh.
Oh. Professor Moriarity.
Not that I wish
to appear inquisitive.
But to what am I indebted
to the pleasure
of this visit?
Scotland Yard
will be interested.
It's very
convenient for me
to have
Scotland Yard think
that I am still
dead in Montevideo.
I never dreamed
of fooling you.
Thank you.
The thought occurs
to me. Mr. Holmes.
That there are
some advantages
in living within the law.
You are very comfortably
fixed here. Aren't you?
As I get on in life.
The little comforts
appeal to me
more and more.
Oh. I beg your pardon.
Won't you sit down?
Thank you.
And now.
Professor Moriarity.
What can I do for you?
Everything that
I have to say to you
has already
crossed your mind.
And my answer has no
doubt crossed yours?
That's final?
What do you think?
I shall not rest
until you are hanged
for the finger murders.
You've no proof. you know?
No. Not a shred.
But I have you.
I could turn you
over to the police.
Here and now.
You could.
But if you did.
you'd never see
Dr. Watson again.
Oh. The telephone call?
Quite.
I rather assumed
you had taken
some such precaution.
Or I should have
snatched up a revolver
and indulged in
a fit of heroics
when you came in.
Very smart. Aren't you?
Not smart enough.
Or I should have
anticipated you.
But. If any harm
comes to Dr. Watson.
I shall seek you out.
I shall not rest
until I find you.
And when I do...
No harm will come to
Dr. Watson this time.
But I can't answer
for the future.
Mr. Holmes.
I should strongly advise
you to drop this case.
Don't be silly.
Think it over.
We've had many
encounters in the past.
You hope to place
me on the gallows.
I tell you. I shall never
stand up on the gallows.
But if you are
instrumental in any way
in bringing about
my destruction.
you will not be alive to
enjoy your satisfaction.
And we shall walk together
through the gates of
eternity hand-in-hand.
What a charming
picture that would make.
Yes. Wouldn't it?
And I really think
it might be worth it.
Shoelaces Governor.
Two pence a pair.
And strong enough
to hang yourself.
How many more
times must I tell you.
I don't want your filthy
shoelaces or your company.
Shoelaces. Governor?
Blasted impertinence.
Run along my good man.
Or I'll give you a charge.
Shoelaces. Governor?
Shoelaces. Governor?
For a poor bloke.
What's only got one arm?
Any luck with Mr. Holmes?
You can read
his obituary
in tomorrow's papers.
Oh. There you are.
Watson. Come in.
I was just going
out to look for you.
Look for me. What for?
I suppose you don't think
I know my way about.
Well. you're
right. I don't.
Blast all practical
jokers. Anyhow.
Know where I've been?
Oh a wild goose chase.
Exactly.
There's no such number
in McArthur's Mews.
Some fool's
idea of a joke.
Did you...
did you see anyone?
No. Nobody special.
Only a whining old
idiot selling bootlaces.
Persistent
beggar. Wasn't he?
Stuck to you
like grim death.
How do you know?
And finally
left you for someone
that looks like
Phillip the King.
Someone. My dear Watson.
Was Professor
Moriarity himself.
What?
He just called on me.
Moriarity here. And
you let him go?
But you must be
out of your mind.
Why?
Well. He bluffed
me into believing
that he was holding a
friend of mine as hostage.
Friend of yours. Who?
Oh. Nobody very important.
Just a fat. Lazy fellow.
Medical man. I believe.
Medical man.
Do I know him?
Ah. yes. I think you do.
Fellow by the
name of Watson.
Watson. Watson.
Never heard...
who. Me?
I'm afraid so. Old fellow.
Your street hawker's job
was to do away with you
under a
certain contingency.
And you let Moriarity
go because of me?
I had no choice.
I can't afford to
lose you. Old fellow.
Well. That's
very decent of you.
Old chap. I must say.
But I wish
you'd nabbed him.
We shall. Never fear.
I know the motive for
the finger murders.
All I have to find out
now is the method used
for the blackmail victims.
Method?
Yes.
How does Moriarity
get them to the
scene of the crime?
How does he plant those
severed fingers on them?
And how does he scare
them into believing that
they may have committed
those atrocious
murders themselves?
Curious.
Very curious.
Curious. What's curious?
That window in the empty
house across the street.
First floor front.
What's wrong with it?
It's open.
Why shouldn't it be open.
It wasn't open
half an hour ago.
I'll stake my
life on that.
Well that's not
our business?
Let it stay open.
I wonder if you'd
go over. Old fellow.
And see what's the matter.
Trespassing.
Against the law.
Very well.
I'll go myself.
Well. If you're going
to put it like that.
Ridiculous waste of time.
Going about
shutting windows
at this hour of the night.
Here. you better
take this torch.
Take what...
hmm. Dignified
job for a doctor.
Dr. Watson.
The torchbearer!
And what do
you propose to do.
Sit in a comfortable
chair. I suppose.
And read a good book.
That's a very good idea.
Hmm. very good idea.
While I play
night watchman.
you have a nice read.
Good night.
Have a good time.
What on earth is this for?
Oh. Umbrella stand.
Pretty little thing to
keep about the house.
Must have been a pet.
Rat probably.
While he sits comfortably
reading a book.
Humph!
(Sound of gunshot)
He killed Holmes.
He killed Sherlock!
Watson?
You?
But I saw him shoot
you a second ago!
Not me. My dear fellow.
Merely the bust
of Julius Caesar.
Incidentally. you
may have noticed
that all through the ages.
Prominent men
have prominent noses.
Oh. I'm afraid
we're in for
terrible trouble
again with Mrs. Hudson
window smashed. Plaster
all over the floor.
Get up. you.
Corporal Williams.
Middlesex Regiment.
Discharged from the Army
as physically unfit.
Hmm. Papers seem in order.
Now. Corporal Williams.
you've seen service in
the Far East. Haven't you?
The East.
I thought so.
Look at his complexion.
Watson... yellow saffron.
He's been
taking atabrine.
A cure for malaria.
Sniper. Aren't you?
Sniper.
Hmm.
Why did you
try to kill me?
I had to kill him.
I had to.
Oh. Snap out of it!
Stop it. Watson.
He's shamming.
No. He isn't.
Who told you to kill me?
She told me.
She told you?
She told me
I couldn't miss.
Well. Luckily you did
miss. you murderer.
He isn't a
murderer. Watson.
Listen. Corporal Williams.
She told you you had
to do it. Didn't she?
I had to do it.
I've got it.
Watson. I've got it!
Got what?
The method used in
the finger murders.
Well. What is it?
Hypnotism. My dear
fellow. Hypnotism.
And it wasn't
against his nature.
And that's the
devilish part of it.
They picked a man
for that purpose
whose job was sniping.
Who are they?
Professor Moriarity and
his finger murderers.
Williams spoke of a woman.
I think you'll find
that she asked him home
tonight for a drink.
Nice. Quiet rooms.
Soft lights. Music.
You've got it all
packed. Mr. Holmes.
What's the lady look like?
About 30. nice figure.
Blond. Lustrous eyes.
Oh. Really?
Got her phone number?
Williams will
give us her address.
Look after him Gregson.
Don't let anyone
come near him.
He's our key witness
in the finger murders.
Well. I hope
you're guessing
right. Mr. Holmes.
Get up. Williams.
Now. Go with
Inspector Gregson
anywhere he tells you.
Come on.
Ring me as soon
as he comes to
himself. Will you?
I will.
Good night. Gentlemen.
Good night.
Well. If you believe
that fellow Williams
is hypnotized.
I suppose you think
Sir George Fenwick
was hypnotized. Too?
I'm quite sure of it.
Have a cup of tea?
Thanks. Old boy.
Nothing to eat?
But why didn't
these people
make Sir George
do the murder himself?
Because they didn't
want to get him hanged.
They wanted to
blackmail him.
Well. Who do you think
the actual murderer is?
One of Moriarity's gang.
A diabolically
simple technique.
Kill a woman.
Yes. yes. yes. But why
cut off the fingers?
My dear fellow.
Don't you understand?
The severed finger
is what links the
blackmail victim
to the murder.
He wakes.
Finds the grizzly
thing in his pocket.
Doesn't know
how it got there.
He has no idea that
he's been hypnotized.
For all he knows.
He may have committed
the atrocious crime
during some dreadful
lapse of sanity.
In that state when he's
utterly demoralized.
The blackmailers
take over. Is that it?
Undoubtedly.
You see. They swear
that they saw
him commit the murder.
And being human. The
victim will pay anything
rather than stand
trial on a charge
that will make his
very name loathsome.
Well. It all fits in
if you believe
in hypnotism.
The only possible
explanation.
And you think
the hypnotist
is that woman
with the blond hair.
The lustrous eyes...
the woman you invented?
I didn't invent
her. I saw her.
What on earth
are you talking about?
That woman.
My dear Watson.
Was with Sir George when
he left Pembroke House.
I saw her there.
I shall see her again.
And Williams will
lead me to her.
That's why
it's so important
to keep him safe.
He will identify her.
(Phone ringing)
Hello?
Yes.
Inspector Gregson?
What?
Well. Get every
constable in the District.
Yes. I'll be over at once.
What's happened. Holmes?
Williams is missing.
Great Scot!
Come on.
A lorry crashed
into Gregson's car
during the confusion.
Williams disappeared.
Escaped. Huh?
No. Kidnapped.
To keep him from
talking when he came to.
You don't think
that Moriarity...
With Moriarity.
Anything is possible.
Williams!
Dead.
You see. Anything
is possible.
Oh.
Good morning.
Professor Moriarity.
You startled me.
I'm dressing
another dolly.
A dear little nurse.
Is there anything
wrong with your finger?
Just a splinter.
Nasty things splinters.
Most trying.
One can't be too careful.
But I'll get
it out for you.
I have the very
instrument to help you.
Sharp enough
to split a hair.
Put those tools away
until they're needed.
But they're not tools.
Sir. They're instruments.
Put them away.
Is Lydia in?
Yes.
But really. you
should let me.
Get dressed.
Holmes and Watson
just left Baker Street
for the Mesmer Club.
Mesmer Club?
The meeting place
of all the top
hypnotists in London.
Do you suppose
that Mr. Holmes
is on to our method?
If he suspects.
It's merely a suspicion.
It's our business to
see that it ends there.
I hope you're right.
Williams passed away
before he could
talk. Remember?
What do you want me to do?
Go to the Mesmer
Club. Meet Holmes.
And induce him
to come back here.
Isn't that a
bit dangerous?
Every meeting
with Sherlock Holmes
is potentially dangerous.
However. you say
he didn't see your
face at Pembroke House.
And how would you suggest
I get Mr. Holmes
to accompany me here?
Kidnap him?
Oh. No.
Holmes has one weakness.
His insatiable curiosity.
If you can arouse that.
you can lead him anywhere.
It's up to you to
take advantage
of any opportunity
that may arise.
This way.
Please. Gentlemen.
I'll tell Dr. Onslow
that you're here.
Thank you.
So this is the
Mesmer Club?
If you ask me. Hypnotism
is a lot of mumbo-jumbo.
Oh. Come now Watson.
As a medical man.
you must admit that
hypnotism has its place
in modern science?
That may be. But 90
percent of hypnotists
are crooks of
the worse kind.
Nothing more than
a lot of charlatans
exploiting
weak-willed morons.
Dr. Onslow. I believe.
Happy to meet
you. Mr. Holmes.
Your brother. Mycroft.
Suggested I might
be of help to you.
He's a valued member
of our little group of
charlatans and crooks.
Beg your pardon. Sir.
Didn't know you
were listening.
Behind the curtain
My friend. Dr. Watson.
Ah. Delighted.
I wonder now...
you see.
We're in the midst
of a little
experimental session
at this very moment.
If you'd care to join us.
Certainly. Certainly.
Might be very instructive.
Oh. Well. Will
you follow me?
Thank you.
In treating his patients.
But today. The therapeutic
value of hypnotism.
As we now call it.
Is conceded by
numerable physicians.
Especially of value
in surgical cases
where the administration
of local or of general
anesthetic is inadvisable.
Inadvisable.
Poppycock! Oh. Sorry.
For the sake
of latecomers.
I may say that I have
placed this subject
under profound hypnosis.
In this condition.
He can feel no pain.
Even under applications
which normally
would be excruciating.
Excruciating!
Will you excuse
me. Please.
Carter. you are having
a peaceful sleep.
you feel nothing.
Your arms and your hands
are without sensation.
Mobrey. The long needle.
Carter. Give me
your right hand.
As you observe.
The needle has been thrust
completely through
the subject's hand.
No feeling. No pain.
This lack of feeling is
the one infallible test
of profound hypnosis.
Nonsense.
Fellow's full of drugs.
Well. Isn't he?
Definitely not. Doctor.
Wake up. Carter. Wake up.
You'll feel well and
rested. Remember.
No pain anywhere.
Wake up. Wake up.
I say. When are
you going to begin?
All through.
Carter. Stand up.
This way. Sir.
And. Uh. Are these all
the people that come here?
Oh. No. No.
Others keep dropping
in all the time.
I suppose it's all
right for those
who believe in it but.
Of course. I'm a
professional man myself.
Then you don't believe
in hypnotism. Dr. Watson?
Oh. I don't deny that
there's certain types
of hysterical
feeble-minded people.
Who'll go under if you
point your finger at them.
But anyone with an
ounce of character.
How right you are.
You see right through
our little artifices.
Don't you?
Right through. My
dear sir. Right through.
Quite so.
But with the
feeble-minded. As you say.
Excuse us. Mr. Holmes.
Certainly.
Step over here won't you?
Certainly.
Anything to oblige.
Let me show
you how easily
we charlatans take
advantage of them.
Now. Sit down. Doctor.
Now. We set a thing
like this in motion.
It's wonderful.
The attraction.
On the
feeble-minded. Of course.
The continuous motion.
If they just let
themselves follow it.
Of course. you
could stare at it
'til Doomsday. Dr. Watson.
With no effect at all.
Still. It might make
you a little drowsy.
Like the white
ribbon of road at night
when you're driving.
The rhythm is smooth.
Unbroken.
And the road
goes on and on
round and round.
Always the same.
Winding and winding.
And you're drowsy.
you're tired.
Let the road come
into you as it were.
The long road.
The smooth road.
The road to sleep.
Sleep.
Open your eyes.
Stand up.
Turn around.
And now. Dr. Watson.
you're on a
Holiday in Scotland.
The country is
amazingly beautiful.
We're coming to a stream.
It isn't deep.
Better take your
shoes and socks off.
Roll up your trouser.
That will do.
The other leg
is waterproof.
Turn around.
Mind the pebbles!
Sit down.
Wake up now.
See. What did I tell you.
It didn't work with me.
Why. Nobody with an
ounce of charac...
I think you'll need these.
(Laughing)
Nothing to laugh at.
Watson. She's here!
Who?
The woman you're
looking for?
Yes. I'm going
to meet her.
Perhaps I can induce her
to take me to Moriarity.
Do you think that's
wise. Holmes?
May not be wise.
But it's essential.
After all.
I've held my own with
Moriarity in the past.
But isn't it dangerous?
She might be a hypnotist.
If my will isn't
stronger than hers.
I deserve to
be hypnotized.
Shh!
I feel I must
protest. Dr. Onslow.
I was told this
was a gathering
of serious students
of a great science.
And I find myself in
a company of buffoons.
Oh. My dear...
(unintelligible)
They're brave.
Were those men
martyrs for the truth?
But you may laugh
over your childish.
Cruel tricks.
I must say.
I'm in complete
agreement with you. Madam.
This was a
most unnecessary
performance. Dr. Onslow.
Beg your pardon. Sir?
My name is Holmes.
Sherlock Holmes.
At your service. Madam.
Thank you. Mr. Holmes.
I'm afraid I've created
a rather
embarrassing situation.
But you see. I'm
interested in the serious
study of hypnotism.
So am I. Too.
Perhaps we have something
in common. Mr. Holmes.
Perhaps we have.
Would you join
me for a cocktail
at Pembroke House?
I should be delighted.
Good.
Thank you.
I didn't know there
was such a pleasant
place in London.
It was so nice of you to
suggest our coming here.
I thought a
little pick-me-up
would do us good.
You mean. you
thought I looked...
I like the way you look.
Thank you.
I suppose I did
lose my head a little
at the Mesmer Club.
But you see.
Hypnotism is almost
a religion with me.
I know so well
what it can do
to help and heal.
And I can't bear
to see it used
for trivial purposes.
I know very
little about it.
That's why I went
to the Mesmer Club.
You see. I'm rather
puzzled just now
with a case that
I am working on.
How fascinating.
Tell me about it.
It's the murder
of Sir George Fenwick.
Fenwick?
Who's he?
Quite a well-known figure.
Odd. Now I come
to think of it.
The last time
I saw Sir George
was here at
Pembroke House.
Strange.
Yes. Isn't it.
He was sitting um.
I believe he was sitting
at this very table.
Cigarette?
Thanks. Do go on.
There was a
charming lady with him.
He was. Um.
He was lighting
her cigarette.
Charming.
Did you see her face?
No.
Merely her back.
How unenterprising
of you.
Yes. Wasn't it.
Afraid I'm getting
a little older.
I shouldn't say so.
That's nice of you.
Still. The first
time in my life
I've got a hold of a
case that's beyond me.
I'm actually losing
sleep over it.
You know. Mr. Holmes.
I believe
I could help you.
Really?
I should be very grateful.
You're amused?
No. Merely skeptical.
How would you go about it?
I've used hypnotism more
than once in healing.
Not for profit.
I'm not a professional.
But I do think
I could help you.
If you'd care to...
I can't think of a
pleasanter experience.
Low lights. Music.
Is that all
there is to it?
You must relax.
Mr. Holmes.
I'm afraid you're a
rather difficult subject.
So. I thought
perhaps a little help.
Materia medica
might be advisable.
Drugs?
No. I'd rather not.
If you don't mind?
As a matter of fact.
I'd rather not myself.
But (unintelligible)
He practiced in
Munich. you know.
Believed it
the best means
for difficult subjects.
Do you mind?
Well. As a
matter of fact.
I don't approve
of sedatives.
Just as you wish.
We don't have to go
on with this at
all. you know?
Wait a minute.
Wait a minute.
All right.
I'll take a chance.
It's really
quite harmless.
What is it?
Cannabis Japonica. An
Oriental soporific.
You'll need water.
Thank you.
You must sit
down. Mr. Holmes.
You'll feel yourself
going drowsy.
Don't fight it.
Give in to it.
Because you do want
to sleep. you know?
Just fix your eyes on
this one white flower.
Floating on the water.
Empty your mind of
every other thought.
Follow the motion
of the water.
So smooth.
Not a ripple.
Waters of forgetfulness.
Steady.
Deep.
Strong.
Strange. Isn't it.
How the light
is reflected.
Little specks of light
that move and move.
It's restful here.
It's peaceful.
It's friendly.
And you're very close
to finding what
you're looking for.
You'll find them soon now.
The guilty ones.
When you're rested.
Gentle waters
closing over you.
Steady.
Deep.
Strong.
Drawing you down.
Down.
Down.
Sleep.
Sleep.
Sleep.
Here he is.
Professor Moriarity.
Stand up. Mr. Holmes.
Open your eyes.
Face this way.
Are you satisfied?
We're dealing
with a clever man.
He may be shamming.
There's just
one infallible test
for profound hypnosis.
You ready. Dr. Simnell?
That will do. Doctor.
He couldn't fake
insensibility
to the knife.
I congratulate you. Lydia.
Turn around. Mr. Holmes.
Now. Walk to the desk.
Sit down.
Take that pen.
And write what
I tell you to write.
I've at last found a
case which I cannot solve.
I have outlived
my usefulness.
Therefore. I have
decided to end my life.
Sign your name.
Now. Blot it.
Fold it up.
And put it in your pocket.
Come. Mr. Sherlock Holmes.
Go out onto the terrace.
But it won't look
like suicide. Sir.
I'm sorry. But
Mr. Holmes' injuries
must all be
self-inflicted.
Let's walk a
little. Mr. Holmes.
It's so pleasant
here in the garden.
Just step up here
onto the terrace.
It's a nice.
Broad terrace.
Now. Turn to the left
and walk slowly to
the end of the terrace.
Don't stop.
You must walk to
the end. you know.
The end leads
to an open doorway.
You can pass through
it in perfect safety.
In the room
beyond the doorway.
you'll find what
you're looking for.
Must you drag this on?
This is the moment
I've been anticipating
for a long time. My dear.
Go on. Mr. Holmes.
Through the open doorway
you'll find the man
responsible for
the finger murders
and the death of
Sir George Fenwick.
Professor Moriarity!
Holmes!
Stand still!
What a beautiful
view. Watson.
I'm quite enjoying it.
No. you're not.
You're hypnotized!
You're under a spell.
Stand still. Don't move.
Steady. Holmes.
Steady does it.
Stand perfectly
still where you are.
Nonsense. Watson.
You don't know
what you're doing.
Of course I know
what I'm doing.
You mean. you're
not hypnotized?
Certainly not.
Then get off the
wall. you idiot.
Dear fellow.
What were you
doing out there?
Holding the fort
until you arrived.
What kept you?
Oh. I ran into
a spot of trouble
on my way to
Scotland Yard.
I was arrested
for exceeding
the speed limit.
Your luck seems
to hold. Mr. Holmes.
Well. I'd hardly
call it luck. Professor.
You see. I substituted
a drug of my own
for the one that this
dear lady pressed on me.
You are clever.
Aren't you?
A drug that.
Although it leaves
the subject conscious.
It renders him quite
insensitive to pain.
That accounted for
my lack of reaction
to Dr. Simnells' knife.
Well. Gregson.
Quite an impressive haul.
Even Inspector
Lestrade himself
couldn't have
done any better.
Thanks. Mr. Holmes.
Take them away.
All right. Put
her in the van.
I was right. Mr. Holmes.
You are a
difficult subject.
Thank you.
And now. Professor.
Our score is settled.
Au revoir until
I see you on the gallows.
The rope has not been made
that'll go around my neck.
Come on.
I'll take care
of things. Mr. Holmes.
Thank you. Inspector.
Come on.
An evil man. Holmes.
But what a horrible death.
Better than he deserved.
What are you thinking of?
I'm thinking
of all the women
who can come
and go in safety
in the streets
of London tonight.
Stars keep watch
in their heavens.
And in our own little way.
We. Too. Old friend.
The privilege to
watch over our city.