The Master Blackmailer (1992) Movie Script
Emile my dearest one.
Pour le comte.
Bien sur, Madame.
My dearest Emile,
my husband has
changed his plans.
There is no other
way to say goodbye.
Remember me in your heart.
Who betrayed me in Paris
and why did you
wait so long?
I find your ladyship's
attitude surprising.
The answers to
those questions
are no concern of yours.
On my knees I beg you,
I implore you
to show mercy.
I'm not in the business
of mercy Madame.
I haven't the money.
Even if I wished
how could I without
my husband knowing?
Oh you'd be exceedingly
ill advised
not to make an effort.
Do your worst.
You will not have
a penny from me,
coward!
My grandsons were
punished enough.
I hear from them
only seldom.
They wish to spare me
their misery I think.
This monster who brought
about their downfall?
He lives and
breathes Mr. Holmes
with a smiling face
and a heart of marble.
You should have
come to me sooner.
If only I'd known
of you sooner.
A friend gave
me your name.
He has a high regard,
for your sense
of justice.
Do you read poetry?
Try a leaf.
CAM devil.
This is the only
clue I can offer you.
Maybe it will help.
I wish nothing for
myself Mr. Holmes.
It is too late for that.
I wish only
to save others.
3:45 for London.
I felt great
sadness there.
To think that
that house
must have reverberated
to the sounds
of those boys
growing up.
Man who preys
upon weakness
with a smiling face
and a heart of marble.
A master blackmailer.
I've heard whisper of him
yet no one has put
a name to him.
Well there's no
mention of blackmail.
Even a whisper of it
in the newspaper columns.
You'd have reported it?
Of her two grandchildren,
George the elder,
and Edward Kroft
was caught in a moment
of indiscretion,
referred to the paper
as the Badger Game.
It seems to
involve a gentleman
being lured to the
bed of a prostitute
then being discovered
in flagrante delicto
by a third party.
As usual the sensational
press has got it wrong.
The lady was an
actress that is true
but it was no
in flagrante.
Mrs. Hudson!
He was married Holmes
into one of the highest
family's in the land.
The paper's made
plenty of that.
And the younger boy?
Edward?
Now, he revenged
for his brother,
took a revolver
to the footman,
who's name was,
eh, Veitch,
burst in upon him,
shot him in the face.
The man lived
but was disfigured
for life.
After the trial
he disappeared.
It is Veitch we must find
to lead us to our prize.
Ms. Hudson are
you not well?
Of course I'm well.
Then please you know I
hate the smell of cabbage.
Surely the brothers would
know their tormenter.
The older brother fled
the country in disgrace.
Edward joined him having
served his sentence,
they're now living richly
somewhere in France.
Goodbye Mrs. Hudson.
Thank you.
There is one curiosity.
C.A.M Devil.
Read it for clues
if you wish.
I rather liked Tennyson.
But later.
I'd prefer you to
direct your energies
towards the
gossip columnists.
The Grasslands.
The Grasslands, Watson,
for which our
serpent lies.
Do tell us where
you're going Charlotte.
Oh yes do tell.
Lottie where
are you going?
Shall I, dearest?
What's that my love?
Tell them where we're
going for our honeymoon.
I've no objections.
It's Buddley Solterton.
How romantic.
It is actually very.
I shall have to choose
somewhere abroad
for a honeymoon.
Paris or Rome.
You may Daphne.
But if one's fate is
to marry a soldier,
abroad may well be
one's whole life.
And your honeymoon
Lady Eva?
Have you and Harry
decided yet?
Florence,
Naples,
Constantinople
I think.
Sounds delightful.
Now you've made
him envious.
Not at all.
Charlotte my dear,
I must return
to barracks.
Shall I see you
this evening?
No, duties forbid.
Our regimental
dinner alas.
Ladies.
Lottie, he is gorgeous.
He's divine!
How'd you get so
lucky Charlotte?
But where is
Buddley Solterton?
Oh I'm so happy
for you Lottie!
What is this?
It's not in my hand.
My dear Colonel
you don't expect me
to give you the
original do you?
Where did you get this?
Who gave it to you?
Oh well,
who but the object
of your affections.
I don't believe it.
It's not possible.
What do you want from me?
Two hundred pounds!
What?
For it all to
be blown away.
Never!
I won't part with a penny.
I'll see you
in hell first.
Think of your lovely
bride Colonel.
What have you done to me?
One has to ask oneself
how much butter
can one eat?
Dotty Martian apparently
got seventeen salt
and pepper parts.
Seventeen?
It's true.
I was thinking of a
way of dealing with it
was to... Help me.
Was to mail her politely,
always useful until
the awful day
when always useless,
she said to the Duchess.
No.
Yes, it's true.
Lillie overheard her
didn't you Lillie?
Yes my lady.
Harry wanted us to
be married at sea
on a pirate ship with
only the crew invited
but one really
can't can we?
No my dear
one really can't.
I made an extremely
foolish wager
but I ended up
boxing a dragoon.
And will you mend
for the nuptials,
my dear fellow,
in three days?
You have a small
flutter in itself.
Thick socks for cold feet.
You can rarely hopes
they won't be needed.
Yeah my grandfather
fancied himself
as something
of a pugilist.
He was a fortho.
I remember one
summer in Ireland,
I must have been about
eight years old I suppose.
He decided to
give me a lesson,
I've never been so
frightened in my life.
Lottie what is it?
Lottie?
What's the problem?
There's some letters.
What?
Looks like it's goodbye
Buddley Solterton.
I must go to her.
No my angel.
Prince Muir is about to
marry Baroness Haganlod.
Lost his first wife,
Princess Mary Devagram
ten years ago.
Lord Rosebury has
accepted an invitation
to dine at the Cutler's
Feast in Sheffield.
You're not trying Watson.
Well really Holmes?
I've been reading
things out
since half past
eight this morning.
You haven't reacted
to a single article.
I shall react
I assure you
the moment you
read out something
which catches
my attention.
Oh this is interesting.
Lord Hockstein of
English Cricketers
are leaving next month
for Philadelphia
and Toronto.
What on earth does
that continent
know about cricket?
The honorable Miss Miles
has broken off
her engagement
to Colonel Dorking
two days before
the wedding.
The most important item
in a woman's
appearance this winter
will be her headgear.
Yes?
I've come to light
the fire for you sir.
Not at the
moment thank you.
Go away.
Inspector?
Mr. Sherlock Holmes?
Yes.
It's from Colonel Dorking.
Who delivered it?
His batman.
This is Colonel Dorking.
His engagement to the
honorable Miss Miles
was broken off yesterday.
You see I was listening.
It's Lestrade.
I don't know that
he's in Inspector.
Inspector?
Mr. Holmes,
you know what
I'm here for.
No prey tell me.
I've come for the letter,
which arrived in
that envelope.
It was stolen
from the rooms
of Colonel John Dorking
and delivered into the
hands of Doctor Watson
not twenty
minutes ago.
Do you have it?
Delivered, yes
but stolen?
It was a postal
note to me Lestrade.
It's police evidence.
The Colonel is dead.
Yes we know.
by his own hand.
Foul play is not
suspected is it?
How can you be
so sure it isn't?
Because the note
made it clear.
So,
why should he
write to you
if he's topping himself?
Did you know the man?
I had no knowledge of him.
Oh, answer my question
or better still
show me the letter.
It will tell you nothing.
So it seems to me
on the point
of engaging you
he must have
changed his mind.
And took a
soldier's way out.
What does he mean by...
We'll never
know Inspector.
But he was engaged to
be married damn it.
Yes.
Well wouldn't be
the first time
and it won't be the last.
So it was blackmail
you'd say?
Well done Lestrade.
No need for
sarcasm Mr. Holmes.
Your as much
in the dark,
as we are then
about who this
blackmailer might be.
You can be sure
of one thing
Colonel Dorking was
not his first victim
and will
not be his last.
Goodbye Lestrade.
You will let me know
if you hear of anything?
I made a hideous
mistake.
I need your services.
The only pity is
he didn't name
the blackmailer.
He did.
This came with the letter.
Charles Augustus
Milverton,
Appledore Towers,
Hampstead, Art Dealer.
Camouflage.
C-A-M,
C.A.M. Devil!
I've had to deal with
fifty murderers
in my career,
but the worst of
them never gave me
this sense of revulsion
which at this moment
I feel towards
Mr. Charles
Augustus Milverton.
Milverton's lair.
It's a fortress.
Are you surprised?
Charles Augustus
Is he a foreigner,
Roman?
He's built his own prison.
He's a man who loathes
the human race.
What circumstances
might bring him to that?
Well boy brought up
in lonely isolation,
starved of affection.
Probably in one of
London's outer suburbs.
Outer, why not Soho
or Leicester Square?
Cause, my dear
Holmes, those places
with all their vices
team with warmth,
generosity of spirit
and humanity.
That's interesting.
Milverton.
Tonight I have an
assignment for you
if you're willing
to visit
an art gallery.
What will you be doing?
Don't you think that
the honorable Miss Miles
might be more
worth a visit
since Dorking
wrote to you?
That is past Watson.
What we must do now
is fasten ourselves
onto his next victim.
So this evening
I'm to discover
all I can about
Milverton?
His reputation.
His background.
And how those
perceive him.
Do I engage him
in conversation?
Yes but with caution.
His lordship has taken
ill at lunch my lady.
It is feared he may
have suffered a stroke.
Oh poor Uncle Charles.
Her ladyship is
with him now.
He should be pleased
that you're back.
Oh Diana.
May I see him?
He's sleeping.
Wait a little.
How bad is it?
Doctor Bainey's
not optimistic.
If he lives
he'll be paralyzed.
Eva there's a ceremony
that I have to
attend this evening.
The unveiling
of my portrait
by a young artist.
Just a brief appearance
but I promised him
that I'd be there.
Will you come
and take care of me?
Of course.
Wait.
Yes?
Here's a maid.
Come about the job sir.
Well come in then.
So what have you got
to sell me my dear?
What is your name?
Lillie sir.
Awe, Lady Eva Blackwell.
It occurs to me
that I might
not have been
invited to this
viewing Holmes.
What if I'm not
admitted huh?
Holmes?
Is that Mr. Holmes
just going out?
Not that I
recognize Doctor.
Without more ado
ladies and gentlemen
I shall perform
the ceremony
for which we are gathered.
I think she's gentler
and more beautiful
than that.
I should insist on
Whistler painting you.
Formidable!
It was a great honour.
I would like to go soon.
The boy has caught you to
perfection Lady Swinstead.
I don't believe we've
been introduced.
Charles Augustus
Milverton
at your service.
Excuse me,
Lady Diana,
I'm afraid.
My husband?
Eva.
Forgive me.
A most beautiful lady.
What?
Lady Swinstead.
I wonder though
if he's quite got
her mouth right.
Disaster.
Do I know you?
Yeah.
You work for
Milverton don't you?
Is he good to work for?
He would be if weren't
for the bloody plumbing.
Plumbing?
Always drippin
off the spout
and it's always
my fault.
Look what you've done.
That's my pint is it?
Now give us a kiss.
Get off.
Get off Robert.
Get off.
We never sent
for the plumber.
Oh hello.
It was Stokes.
Oh was it?
Robert this
is... what's your name?
Escott.
We plumb the depths,
it's my firms motto.
He says you sent for him.
Where's the trouble?
Awe, I see.
What's going on here?
I asked you what's
going on here?
He's come about the
plumbing Mr. Hebworth.
I took the liberty
of asking him
to come and look at it.
Didn't I Aggie?
You have no right
to take liberties.
I'm in charge here.
But we do need it
done Mr. Hebworth.
I mean, Mr. Milverton
was only saying yesterday
that there was a
very, ugly smell
coming from the piping.
Very well.
Carry on then.
He came in late
and went out early.
Thank you Mrs. Hudson.
Shame isn't it?
He was a fine
statesmen Watson.
It was his
diplomacy, I'm told,
which eased Anglo-French
relationships
at a most delicate
time some year's back.
To think that
I was there
with his widow when the
news was broken to her.
Milverton.
I exchanged a
word with him.
A more calculatingly
insincere smile
I never hope to see.
Charles Augustus.
And described to
me as a connoisseur
in art matters.
A businessman who
can make or raise
the fortunes
of any artist
to whom he
devotes himself.
Stems of hell!
He's a member of a
number of London clubs.
On the basis, I suppose,
that there are those
who do not oppose him.
Not the Diogenes.
I heard my
brother Microft
that he presented himself
and was turned away
with a flea in his ear.
You're gentleman
blackmailer
was born in Balum.
The only son of a
glazer and his wife.
Your source of
information?
Oh a variety of sources.
I applied your methods.
How have you faired?
I've entered the fortress
I'm a plumber with a
rising business,
Escott by name.
The butler, who goes under
the name of Hebworth,
is none other than
Veitch the footman,
who was shot in the face.
I'm certain of it.
Perhaps he was
employed by Milverton
as a reward for
keeping his silence
during the Kroft scandal.
I wonder.
You got air compression
in your cell pipes
Mr. Hebworth.
That's the cause of the
evil smell in this house.
What this warrants is
a save all below it
so the dirty water
don't get clogged up.
What the devil are
you doing here?
It's the plumber sir.
There's no need of a
plumber in this room.
Get out.
This is master's
special room.
and you stay out now.
Aggie?
I'll see you later
it's my plumber.
Aggie?
I don't care if I
do make him jealous.
His ideas are...
I don't like your
master Aggie.
I think he's a
shady character.
Your right he is.
Oh God.
Lillie.
She won't come
here for no job.
Why would she want
to work here for?
She was a real
lady's maid,
you could tell
by her clothes.
What was she after then?
I think you're getting
to a bit too curious.
Yes you are
and I'm getting cold.
Snuggling good.
Just a kiss.
I don't know how.
Poor boy.
Holmes
I've had an idea.
A way in which we can bring
this fellow Milverton
within the grasp
of the law.
If we could tempt
him to blackmail
an innocent person
we should have him.
Now suppose...
suppose I was to
be the recipient
of some indiscreet
letters.
You Watson?
Who would prey
write these letters?
Someone of our
acquaintance.
And you and your
plumbing persona
could offer them for sale.
And at the moment
of transaction
Lestrade would be on
hand to arrest him.
But legally we
cannot move
until some victim
is prepared
to sacrifice
their reputation
by going to the police.
There must be some way
we can fight this devil.
There is.
There is.
In a mere three
weeks, my love,
this all will be yours.
I feel unworthy of it.
Nonsense.
There's no woman on
earth more worthy.
I feel unwell.
I know what it
is your feeling.
It's your Uncle Charles,
I do understand.
We have our future ahead.
We have each other for
the rest of our lives.
Where can I find
Monsieur Vetron?
Sherlock Holmes.
Good evening monsieur.
You see I've
tried to bring
a little bit of
Paris to London.
Camille's method
is simple.
Camille?
C-A-M, C.A.M.
Watson, you know sometimes
you absolutely amaze me.
He allows it to be known
that he is prepared
to pay very high sums
for letters, which
compromise people
of wealth and position.
Do you receive, do you
receive these letters from
valets and maids?
Not only them
sometimes, how
do you say,
gentile ruffians
who have the confidence
and affection
of trusting women?
No one knows where
Camille's grip may fall.
You are his agent,
his conductor?
Me?
No, no, no, we go back
a number of years.
Really, people are
stupid enough
to trust their servants.
Did you help conduct a
housemaid to him recently?
And what his your
interest monsieur?
I have a friend
who may have
something to sell.
Oh yes?
Well come this way.
Tell me about him.
Well he needs to
know the procedure.
The matter is delicate.
Of course.
It always is.
He's a personal physician
to the Duke and
Duchess of Landish.
Now this housemaid
who came by recently?
She's here tonight
celebrating her birthday.
In a year from now
she'll be on the streets.
At whose expense?
Lady Eva Blackwell.
Engaged to the
Earl of Dovercourt.
Said to be married
within weeks.
She must submit
herself to our care.
Somehow without delay.
How dare you come
into this house?
How dare you?
My dear young lady
a show of temper
will avail
you nothing.
I can't pay you.
I haven't the
money to pay you.
Give me back my letters!
Please,
Ieave me alone.
You must be resourceful
in finding the money.
You have
influential friends.
Surely they'll
come to your aid.
No, they won't.
Who can I tell?
That's not my concern.
The Earl of
Dovercourt my lady.
Don't fuss.
Oh there's a good fellow.
Now Henry.
This is Mr. Milverton.
I'm honoured to
meet you my Lord.
And what is your
business here?
Business?
Shall we share
with his lordship
our little
secret Lady Eva?
No.
As you wish.
My card sir.
Thank you.
Good day to you both.
Stokes?
Hmmm?
What time is it?
Twenty past four.
How much longer Escott?
Well if you'll
forgive me
for saying so
Mr. Hebworth,
you're plumbing's in
the shocking stage.
It's the worst
I've ever seen.
Two more days
then you're out.
Come and see me tonight.
Woops.
Oh Aggie.
I have it under authority
that she rides this way
every Sunday afternoon.
Would you recognize her?
Well I've seen her
likeness in a magazine
if she's with
Dovercourt, I might.
Eva?
Boy get the horse.
I'm a Doctor.
Her godmother lives
just over there.
We could carry her
if it's safe to
lift her doctor.
Yes.
There's no injury
Darling?
I'm so sorry to be
of so much trouble.
You lay where
you are my dear.
You're in safe hands now.
Lady Swinstead.
All England shares
in your grief.
My colleague,
Doctor Watson,
is attending Lady Eva.
Poor child is
very disturbed
by the death
of my husband.
There's nothing
serious Lady Swinstead
but I would advise
you to make her rest
and get her own
doctor to see her.
Of course.
Thank you Doctor Watson.
May Lady Eva
need my services
please.
Eva?
It was Milverton
who caused her fall.
She saw his carriage.
He wrings the nerves
of his victims
to add to his already
swollen moneybags.
He is the worst
man in London.
Seething,
slithering and sly.
Yes, is there nothing
better we can do
than spend our
time here Holmes?
You have any suggestions?
Confront him.
Challenge him.
The brain before
the cudgel.
Meanwhile,
just like him,
he'll squeeze his victims
till he's drained them dry
and we're doing
nothing to stop him.
Holmes?
You must eat child.
What's troubling you?
Are you expecting
someone?
No.
I'm just thinking
about my wedding.
Now tell me the truth.
Gotcha!
What time do they
go to bed in
this house Aggie?
What do you want
to know for?
So I know when it's
safe to visit you.
You could always come
in over the wall.
Throw pebbles
at my window.
Which is your window?
I'll only tell you
if you marry me love.
Oh Aggie I can't.
Then I wont tell!
You have such a
way with words.
All right.
I'm at the very, very
top on the corner
and Master, he's
a floor below
but he's next
to the garden
and Monsieur Hebworth
he's on the ground floor
just across
from the study.
Lewis is sleeping don't
you come wake him.
There's a joke in
the servant's hall.
Why don't he
sleep upstairs?
Because the master
wants him on guard.
[unintelligible]
He's afraid of burglars.
Are you a burglar?
You touched my heart.
I will make you
a gift of mine.
Off you go.
Off you go.
Maximilian,
who let you out?
Stop.
Come here.
Robert, stop it.
Stop it.
I'll get you Escott.
He's just around
the corner.
What's this
bloody racket?
Well there...
Watson you'll be
interested to hear
that I'm engaged
to be married.
Oh yeah?
To the Milverton's
housemaid.
Good heavens.
I needed information.
Surely you've
gone too far!
It was a most
necessary step.
I've walked with
her,
talked with her.
Heaven knows, talks!
But the girl?
Can't help it Watson.
One must play one's
cards as best one can
when such a stake
is on the table.
However, I rejoice
to tell you
that I have a hated rival
that will cut me out
the moment my
back is turned.
What a splendid day it is.
Huh?
You like this weather?
She's here.
My father died
when I was 12.
My mother stays
in the country.
Lord and Lady Swinstead
have made London
home to me
but indeed they arranged
my season last year.
Give me your gloves.
Oh Mrs. Hudson,
what do you think
you're doing?
You haven't been out
this morning Mr. Holmes
and you don't have
to be a detective
to see that
this young lady
is recently up
from a sick bed.
Isn't that so my dear?
We must put some roses
back in those cheeks.
Thank you.
The broth is an
excellent idea.
Mrs. Hudson
will you vanish?
I said vanish!
He was my first love.
The son of some neighbours
of ours in Suffolk
but we were ill matched.
He had few prospects.
When I came
down to London
Iast year for the season
I broke off with him.
I didn't realize
how much I hurt him.
He returned my letters
and I put them
away in a trunk,
which I keep with me.
Now, the substance
of these letters?
They're just a
little foolish.
But sufficient to cause
your fiance misgiving?
Harry's so proud of me.
It frightens me sometimes
that I cannot
live up to
his expectation of me.
Was it your maid who
found these letters?
Lillie, yes!
I trusted her.
I cannot believe
she could have
betrayed me like this.
How would this Lillie
know about Milverton?
I think the idea
may have come to her
through a misfortune
that befell a
friend of mine,
Charlotte,
who was to have married
a Colonel Dorking.
And Mr. Milverton
sent her some letters.
They were very
distressing.
Lillie and I were there
when she received them.
To think the same
fate has befallen me.
It will be all
right, Lady Eva.
What could you do?
My marriage is
on the 18th.
He's demanding that
the money
be paid to him
four days prior to the
wedding, on the 14th,
on the day of the dance.
Dance?
Lord Dovercourt has
arranged a wedding feast
and invited
half of London.
I'm dreading it.
If you will place
yourself in my hands
I'll inform Mr. Milverton
that you've commissioned
me to meet him
to make the best
terms that I can, huh?
I have limited
resources Mr. Holmes.
But enough for me
to bargain with
I cannot approach
him empty handed.
Good.
Good.
Thank you.
My felicitations to
your Godmother.
Lady Eva?
You must trust Mr. Holmes
and his methods.
Absolutely.
Mrs. Hudson will
see you out.
That young lady, Holmes,
must be treated
with infinite care
unlike your other
recent escapade.
Oh Watson,
it took some
nerve for her
to come here alone.
It is my belief
that Lady Eva
and the
Milverton housemaid
have something in common.
And what is that?
Juice.
Watson, juice
in the face
of adversity.
Now Mr. Milverton.
Well, well, well.
Eva?
Eva?
Eva?
Eva?
Lottie!
I am so glad to see you.
Paris wasn't the answer.
You've been hard to find.
What were you doing?
I fell asleep.
Johnson told me about
your Uncle Charles.
I'm so sorry.
I stayed here to
comfort Diana but
this house is so sad.
We'll call again at 6:30.
C-A-M.
You ready?
Yes.
Mr. Sherlock Holmes.
This gentlemen
is it discreet?
Dr. Watson is my
friend and partner.
It is purely in the
interest of your client
that I protest it.
The matter is so
very delicate.
Dr. Watson has already
thought of that.
May I?
Oh, thank you.
Then we may proceed
to business.
You said in your note
that you are acting
for the Lady Eva,
are you empowered
to accept my terms?
What are your terms?
Seven thousand pounds.
And the alternative?
My dear sir,
it is painful for
me to discuss it
but I can say
that all of this is done
with most careful
consideration
and if the money
is not paid
on the 14th then
there certainly
will be no marriage
on the 18th.
We are, of
course, familiar
with the contents
of these letters.
We shall advise
our client
to tell her future
husband the whole story
and trust to
his generosity.
Well then you evidently
do not know the Earl.
What harm is there
in these letters?
They are sprightly
very sprightly.
The lady was a
charming correspondent.
But I assure you the
Earl of Dovercourt
will fail to
appreciate them.
However, if you
think otherwise,
it's purely a
matter of business.
If you think it in the
best interests
of your client
then it would
indeed be foolish
to pay so large
a sum of money.
You go too fast.
We would certainly
make every effort
to avoid scandal in
so delicate a matter.
I felt sure you would
see it in that light.
Damn you.
Lady Eva is not
a wealthy woman.
Two thousand pounds
would be total drain
on her resources.
The sum you named
utterly beyond her power.
Return the letters at
the price we indicate,
I assure you,
it is the highest
you can get.
What you say maybe true
of the lady's resources
but the surely the
occasion of her marriage
is it not a proper
time for her friends
and relations to make
some little effort
on her behalf?
They may hesitate
as to an acceptable
wedding present
but this little
bundle of letters
would bring more joy
than all the candelabras
and butter
dishes in London
wouldn't it?
It is not possible.
Oh dear me then.
How very unfortunate.
I cannot help
feeling that ladies
are ill advised
in not making an effort.
Look at this.
This belongs to,
well perhaps it's
hardly fair to tell you
to whom it belongs
until tomorrow morning
when it will
be in the hands
of the lady's husband.
And all because
she will not find
a beggarly sum
which she could
easily do
simply by turning
some of her
diamonds into paste.
It is such a pity!
You may have noticed
a small paragraph
recently in The
Morning Post.
The sudden end
of the engagement
between the
Honorable Miss Miles
and Colonel Dorking?
Yes and it's tragic
consequences.
That was tantamount
to murder!
How do you answer for
that Mr. Milverton?
How a man
conducts himself
under such circumstances
is a matter for
himself alone.
That is a monstrous
accession.
It was you
and you alone who
caused his death.
And the sum
involved niggardly.
Indeed a mere twelve
hundred pounds
would have settled
the whole question.
Pitiful isn't it?
And yet I find
you Mr. Holmes,
a man of sense,
boggling of terms
when the whole future
and honour of your
client is at stake.
You surprise me,
you do really!
The money cannot be found.
Surely it would
be better for you
to take the substantial
sum we offer
than to ruin this
young woman's career,
which can profit
you in no way.
But you're mistaken.
An exposure would
profit me indirectly
to a considerable degree.
I have eight or ten
similar cases
materializing.
If it is circulated
that I have made
a severe example
of Lady Eva.
I'll shall find the rest
much more open to reason.
Do you see my point?
Let us see the contents
of those letters.
Mr. Holmes.
Mr. Holmes, I've
been expecting you
to do something original.
This has been tried
so often before.
Young Edward
Kroft for one.
Kroft?
The footman Veitch
who took the bullet that
was rightfully yours.
You've done
some work on me.
So you must know that
nothing ever came
of an attack on my person.
I'm armed to the teeth
at all times
and I'm perfectly prepared
to use my weapons
and knowing that the
law will support me.
You may well
have your chance
to test your assumption.
Mrs. Hudson I am
not to be disturbed.
Go.
Mr. Holmes surely
you don't believe
I'd be so foolish to
carry my livelihood
here in my pocket?
Just making sure
Mr. Milverton.
Well now, gentlemen,
I have one or two little
interviews this evening
and it's a long
drive to Hampstead.
Now, someone has dealt
Milverton a blow.
An outraged husband
just as there
are thousands
in this great city
who crave Milverton's
destruction
and may yet beat us to it.
Holmes?
I'm as fond of
art as any man
but don't you think after
yesterday's encounter...
Art is balm to the brain
especially in
moments of decision.
So we've learned
something about Milverton.
That he's ruthless
is hardly a revelation.
And that of his vanity
and to a certain
measure his vulnerability.
I can see that the
damage to his carriage
might have unsettled him.
We must exploit
such things.
Wanton vandalism.
Any chink in the armor.
Mr. Holmes,
this is my friend
the Honorable
Charlotte Miles.
Mr. Sherlock Holmes
and his partner
Mr. Watson.
Lady Eva, may speak
privately to you?
Mrs. Miles
please accept
our sympathy.
Mr. Holmes and I
are fully aware of
your situation.
That is most kind of
you Doctor Watson
but one has to live
with one's mistakes.
He was unyielding.
Now, the next move
requires your
delicate cooperation.
I'll do anything
you say Mr. Holmes.
The dance in your honour?
On the 14th.
Good afternoon!
Mr. Stokes?
I told you I was not
to be disturbed girl
what is it?
It's Mr. Sherlock
Holmes to see you sir.
"Oh Aggie, you've
touched my heart."
Mr. Holmes?
I'm here to inform you
that my client
accepts your terms.
She's acted
with perspicacity.
She begs but
a small favour.
What is it?
That the exchange be
delayed until the 1 5th.
The Earl has
arranged a dance
for the previous night
and she is somewhat
preoccupied with that.
The dance, yes.
So 10 o'clock the
following morning
we can do business?
Seven thousand pounds?
As agreed.
Here or at Baker Street?
Here, Baker Street.
Neutral ground perhaps.
The Diogenes club
you are a member?
May I?
Tell me this
sudden turnabout
was it on your advice?
I could not abandon
my client to her fate,
Mr. Milverton.
You are the victor.
What a divine fragrance.
My late husband
and I were
something of a
second family to her
so you see my concern?
This man who is
blackmailing her?
Charles Augustus
Milverton
he's an art dealer.
Yes.
I've heard of him.
He's well placed
to hear the gossip
and do his worst.
What view does Mr.
Holmes take of it?
Well I'm sure he has
something in mind
but he seldom
confides in me
till the last minute.
Ah, Holmes.
Lady Swinstead is fully
primed for the situation.
Time is running out,
Mr. Holmes.
If it is a question
of paying the money...
That will not
be necessary.
You can give
assurance then?
That would be unwise
in me Lady Swinstead
but I assure you
I will give it my best.
I shall have to be
satisfied with that then.
Mr. Holmes?
This man must be
silenced.
Does she know
about Milverton?
By name?
Yes I told her.
Was that wrong of me?
Oh Watson, these bills,
they must be paid.
Oh, incidentally I
managed to secure
an invitation for us both
to the Dovercourt dance.
The house is some
miles from London
but in reach for
my purposes.
What purposes?
I intend to burgle
the Milverton
house that night.
For heaven's sake, Holmes,
think what you're doing.
Well, let us look at
it fairly and clearly.
You will admit
that the cause is
morally justifiable.
Yes.
Technically criminal.
No more than raiding
his pockets, a cause,
which you were perfectly
willing to help me.
That was on the
spur of the moment
not on the cold
light of reason.
Reason?
Is there reasoning
to be done, Watson?
Nothing to test my brain?
That's the curse of it.
Think!
If you're caught,
an honoured career
ending in failure
and public disgrace.
What failure?
What disgrace?
Against defeat!
You know me well enough
that I would never adopt
so objectionable a course
if another
were possible.
I must have those letters.
And I have the house in
the palm of my hand.
The cudgel
before the brain.
What of the
odious Milverton?
Do you think he's just
going to open his gates
and invite you
to stroll in?
Milverton will
be at the dance
as the guest
of Lady Eva's.
That's monstrous, Holmes.
My self-respect and
reputation are at stake
it's the only way.
Well, I don't like it,
any of it.
You have nothing to fear.
Eva?
Mrs. Hudson, why did
you tidy for me?
Where the hell
are my shoes?
Shoes?
Yes.
Masks?
Black silk handkerchief.
I see you have
a natural turn
for this sort of thing.
I wonder where
I learned it.
Take the usual
precautions tonight,
Hebworth.
I will.
Enjoy your evening.
The people are at
risk here Holmes.
Yes indeed.
We leave in
eight minutes.
Excuse me sir,
Her ladyship would like
to see you upstairs.
Harry.
That man
is he an invited guest?
Milverton.
Yes it's something
Eva schemed.
The painting.
The old girl is
probably trying to
whittle down the price
by inviting him here.
Don't worry
yourself Diana.
It's all right.
How strange
to see you here
Mr. Holmes.
Mixing business
with pleasure?
There's no doubt you are.
Purely pleasure this
evening Mr. Holmes
I assure you
You will be keeping
our appointment.
Sir.
I am expecting a visitor
in a half an hour.
Sir.
Servants are playing
while the master's away.
Holmes?
Milverton's carriage,
no time to lose the door.
You made me curtail
my evening's
entertainment.
I hope you prove worth it.
You couldn't have come at
a more sociable time?
Well if you couldn't,
you couldn't
if the Countess
is a hard mistress
you have a chance now
to get even with her.
Bless the girl, what
are you shivering about?
That's right!
Pull yourself together.
Now then, let's get
down to business.
You say you have five
letters, which compromise
the Countess D'Albert?
You want to sell them.
I want to buy them.
So far, so good.
So it remains to
fix the price.
Of course I shall want
to examine the letters.
If they prove to be
good specimens then...
Great heavens, it is you?
A woman whose life
you have ruined.
You were so very obstinate!
Paris twelve years ago.
Why did you drive me
to such extremities?
An episode long closed.
I wouldn't hurt a
fly of my own accord.
You waited for the moment
when the stakes was
most worth winning.
What was I to do?
I put the price well
within your means.
Instead you sent the
letters to my husband.
You would not pay.
A man whose boots I was
never worthy to lace-
you broke his
gallant heart,
vile creature.
That day I came
here I prayed,
I begged you for mercy,
and you laughed
at my face
as you are trying
to laugh now,
your coward
heart cannot keep
you lips from trembling.
Don't imagine that
you can bully me
I'm only to raise my voice
You will ruin
no more lives.
I can call my servants
and have you arrested.
You will wring
no more hearts
as you have wrung mine
Charles Milverton.
I will make allowance
for your natural anger.
Leave the room at once
and I'll say no
more about it.
I will free the world
of a poisonous thing.
You've done me.
The fire.
Lady Swinstead,
you're free.
Run!
Run!
Now gentlemen
the sale of the property
of Charles A. Milverton
described, deceased.
Lot one,
a box of
miscellaneous objects,
trinkets,
correspondence,
do hear five pounds?
Thank you sir.
The steward from the
Vetron household
making sure.
Lot two,
bust of Athena,
ancient Goddess of
wisdom, industry and war.
Now what do I have for
this fine marble statue?
Ten pounds?
Twenty?
Twenty pounds.
Thirty?
I have thirty pounds.
Fifty.
I have fifty pounds sir.
Sixty?
Eighty?
Eighty pounds.
Ninety?
Ninety pounds
against you sir.
At ninety.
One hundred pounds.
More sir?
Sold to the
gentleman over there
for one hundred pounds.
Mr. Holmes!
Bought it in an
auction, Mrs. Hudson.
It cost a hundred pounds.
Why has he smashed it?
I thought there might
be something in it.
I'm more than happy to
say that I was wrong.
Thank you Mrs. Hudson
Why, as a point of
interest, Holmes,
did the Frenchman
want it?
Sentimental reasons.
Just making sure.
No Watson!
There are certain aspects
of which I am not proud.
Please,
bury this case,
deep in your pocket.
Pour le comte.
Bien sur, Madame.
My dearest Emile,
my husband has
changed his plans.
There is no other
way to say goodbye.
Remember me in your heart.
Who betrayed me in Paris
and why did you
wait so long?
I find your ladyship's
attitude surprising.
The answers to
those questions
are no concern of yours.
On my knees I beg you,
I implore you
to show mercy.
I'm not in the business
of mercy Madame.
I haven't the money.
Even if I wished
how could I without
my husband knowing?
Oh you'd be exceedingly
ill advised
not to make an effort.
Do your worst.
You will not have
a penny from me,
coward!
My grandsons were
punished enough.
I hear from them
only seldom.
They wish to spare me
their misery I think.
This monster who brought
about their downfall?
He lives and
breathes Mr. Holmes
with a smiling face
and a heart of marble.
You should have
come to me sooner.
If only I'd known
of you sooner.
A friend gave
me your name.
He has a high regard,
for your sense
of justice.
Do you read poetry?
Try a leaf.
CAM devil.
This is the only
clue I can offer you.
Maybe it will help.
I wish nothing for
myself Mr. Holmes.
It is too late for that.
I wish only
to save others.
3:45 for London.
I felt great
sadness there.
To think that
that house
must have reverberated
to the sounds
of those boys
growing up.
Man who preys
upon weakness
with a smiling face
and a heart of marble.
A master blackmailer.
I've heard whisper of him
yet no one has put
a name to him.
Well there's no
mention of blackmail.
Even a whisper of it
in the newspaper columns.
You'd have reported it?
Of her two grandchildren,
George the elder,
and Edward Kroft
was caught in a moment
of indiscretion,
referred to the paper
as the Badger Game.
It seems to
involve a gentleman
being lured to the
bed of a prostitute
then being discovered
in flagrante delicto
by a third party.
As usual the sensational
press has got it wrong.
The lady was an
actress that is true
but it was no
in flagrante.
Mrs. Hudson!
He was married Holmes
into one of the highest
family's in the land.
The paper's made
plenty of that.
And the younger boy?
Edward?
Now, he revenged
for his brother,
took a revolver
to the footman,
who's name was,
eh, Veitch,
burst in upon him,
shot him in the face.
The man lived
but was disfigured
for life.
After the trial
he disappeared.
It is Veitch we must find
to lead us to our prize.
Ms. Hudson are
you not well?
Of course I'm well.
Then please you know I
hate the smell of cabbage.
Surely the brothers would
know their tormenter.
The older brother fled
the country in disgrace.
Edward joined him having
served his sentence,
they're now living richly
somewhere in France.
Goodbye Mrs. Hudson.
Thank you.
There is one curiosity.
C.A.M Devil.
Read it for clues
if you wish.
I rather liked Tennyson.
But later.
I'd prefer you to
direct your energies
towards the
gossip columnists.
The Grasslands.
The Grasslands, Watson,
for which our
serpent lies.
Do tell us where
you're going Charlotte.
Oh yes do tell.
Lottie where
are you going?
Shall I, dearest?
What's that my love?
Tell them where we're
going for our honeymoon.
I've no objections.
It's Buddley Solterton.
How romantic.
It is actually very.
I shall have to choose
somewhere abroad
for a honeymoon.
Paris or Rome.
You may Daphne.
But if one's fate is
to marry a soldier,
abroad may well be
one's whole life.
And your honeymoon
Lady Eva?
Have you and Harry
decided yet?
Florence,
Naples,
Constantinople
I think.
Sounds delightful.
Now you've made
him envious.
Not at all.
Charlotte my dear,
I must return
to barracks.
Shall I see you
this evening?
No, duties forbid.
Our regimental
dinner alas.
Ladies.
Lottie, he is gorgeous.
He's divine!
How'd you get so
lucky Charlotte?
But where is
Buddley Solterton?
Oh I'm so happy
for you Lottie!
What is this?
It's not in my hand.
My dear Colonel
you don't expect me
to give you the
original do you?
Where did you get this?
Who gave it to you?
Oh well,
who but the object
of your affections.
I don't believe it.
It's not possible.
What do you want from me?
Two hundred pounds!
What?
For it all to
be blown away.
Never!
I won't part with a penny.
I'll see you
in hell first.
Think of your lovely
bride Colonel.
What have you done to me?
One has to ask oneself
how much butter
can one eat?
Dotty Martian apparently
got seventeen salt
and pepper parts.
Seventeen?
It's true.
I was thinking of a
way of dealing with it
was to... Help me.
Was to mail her politely,
always useful until
the awful day
when always useless,
she said to the Duchess.
No.
Yes, it's true.
Lillie overheard her
didn't you Lillie?
Yes my lady.
Harry wanted us to
be married at sea
on a pirate ship with
only the crew invited
but one really
can't can we?
No my dear
one really can't.
I made an extremely
foolish wager
but I ended up
boxing a dragoon.
And will you mend
for the nuptials,
my dear fellow,
in three days?
You have a small
flutter in itself.
Thick socks for cold feet.
You can rarely hopes
they won't be needed.
Yeah my grandfather
fancied himself
as something
of a pugilist.
He was a fortho.
I remember one
summer in Ireland,
I must have been about
eight years old I suppose.
He decided to
give me a lesson,
I've never been so
frightened in my life.
Lottie what is it?
Lottie?
What's the problem?
There's some letters.
What?
Looks like it's goodbye
Buddley Solterton.
I must go to her.
No my angel.
Prince Muir is about to
marry Baroness Haganlod.
Lost his first wife,
Princess Mary Devagram
ten years ago.
Lord Rosebury has
accepted an invitation
to dine at the Cutler's
Feast in Sheffield.
You're not trying Watson.
Well really Holmes?
I've been reading
things out
since half past
eight this morning.
You haven't reacted
to a single article.
I shall react
I assure you
the moment you
read out something
which catches
my attention.
Oh this is interesting.
Lord Hockstein of
English Cricketers
are leaving next month
for Philadelphia
and Toronto.
What on earth does
that continent
know about cricket?
The honorable Miss Miles
has broken off
her engagement
to Colonel Dorking
two days before
the wedding.
The most important item
in a woman's
appearance this winter
will be her headgear.
Yes?
I've come to light
the fire for you sir.
Not at the
moment thank you.
Go away.
Inspector?
Mr. Sherlock Holmes?
Yes.
It's from Colonel Dorking.
Who delivered it?
His batman.
This is Colonel Dorking.
His engagement to the
honorable Miss Miles
was broken off yesterday.
You see I was listening.
It's Lestrade.
I don't know that
he's in Inspector.
Inspector?
Mr. Holmes,
you know what
I'm here for.
No prey tell me.
I've come for the letter,
which arrived in
that envelope.
It was stolen
from the rooms
of Colonel John Dorking
and delivered into the
hands of Doctor Watson
not twenty
minutes ago.
Do you have it?
Delivered, yes
but stolen?
It was a postal
note to me Lestrade.
It's police evidence.
The Colonel is dead.
Yes we know.
by his own hand.
Foul play is not
suspected is it?
How can you be
so sure it isn't?
Because the note
made it clear.
So,
why should he
write to you
if he's topping himself?
Did you know the man?
I had no knowledge of him.
Oh, answer my question
or better still
show me the letter.
It will tell you nothing.
So it seems to me
on the point
of engaging you
he must have
changed his mind.
And took a
soldier's way out.
What does he mean by...
We'll never
know Inspector.
But he was engaged to
be married damn it.
Yes.
Well wouldn't be
the first time
and it won't be the last.
So it was blackmail
you'd say?
Well done Lestrade.
No need for
sarcasm Mr. Holmes.
Your as much
in the dark,
as we are then
about who this
blackmailer might be.
You can be sure
of one thing
Colonel Dorking was
not his first victim
and will
not be his last.
Goodbye Lestrade.
You will let me know
if you hear of anything?
I made a hideous
mistake.
I need your services.
The only pity is
he didn't name
the blackmailer.
He did.
This came with the letter.
Charles Augustus
Milverton,
Appledore Towers,
Hampstead, Art Dealer.
Camouflage.
C-A-M,
C.A.M. Devil!
I've had to deal with
fifty murderers
in my career,
but the worst of
them never gave me
this sense of revulsion
which at this moment
I feel towards
Mr. Charles
Augustus Milverton.
Milverton's lair.
It's a fortress.
Are you surprised?
Charles Augustus
Is he a foreigner,
Roman?
He's built his own prison.
He's a man who loathes
the human race.
What circumstances
might bring him to that?
Well boy brought up
in lonely isolation,
starved of affection.
Probably in one of
London's outer suburbs.
Outer, why not Soho
or Leicester Square?
Cause, my dear
Holmes, those places
with all their vices
team with warmth,
generosity of spirit
and humanity.
That's interesting.
Milverton.
Tonight I have an
assignment for you
if you're willing
to visit
an art gallery.
What will you be doing?
Don't you think that
the honorable Miss Miles
might be more
worth a visit
since Dorking
wrote to you?
That is past Watson.
What we must do now
is fasten ourselves
onto his next victim.
So this evening
I'm to discover
all I can about
Milverton?
His reputation.
His background.
And how those
perceive him.
Do I engage him
in conversation?
Yes but with caution.
His lordship has taken
ill at lunch my lady.
It is feared he may
have suffered a stroke.
Oh poor Uncle Charles.
Her ladyship is
with him now.
He should be pleased
that you're back.
Oh Diana.
May I see him?
He's sleeping.
Wait a little.
How bad is it?
Doctor Bainey's
not optimistic.
If he lives
he'll be paralyzed.
Eva there's a ceremony
that I have to
attend this evening.
The unveiling
of my portrait
by a young artist.
Just a brief appearance
but I promised him
that I'd be there.
Will you come
and take care of me?
Of course.
Wait.
Yes?
Here's a maid.
Come about the job sir.
Well come in then.
So what have you got
to sell me my dear?
What is your name?
Lillie sir.
Awe, Lady Eva Blackwell.
It occurs to me
that I might
not have been
invited to this
viewing Holmes.
What if I'm not
admitted huh?
Holmes?
Is that Mr. Holmes
just going out?
Not that I
recognize Doctor.
Without more ado
ladies and gentlemen
I shall perform
the ceremony
for which we are gathered.
I think she's gentler
and more beautiful
than that.
I should insist on
Whistler painting you.
Formidable!
It was a great honour.
I would like to go soon.
The boy has caught you to
perfection Lady Swinstead.
I don't believe we've
been introduced.
Charles Augustus
Milverton
at your service.
Excuse me,
Lady Diana,
I'm afraid.
My husband?
Eva.
Forgive me.
A most beautiful lady.
What?
Lady Swinstead.
I wonder though
if he's quite got
her mouth right.
Disaster.
Do I know you?
Yeah.
You work for
Milverton don't you?
Is he good to work for?
He would be if weren't
for the bloody plumbing.
Plumbing?
Always drippin
off the spout
and it's always
my fault.
Look what you've done.
That's my pint is it?
Now give us a kiss.
Get off.
Get off Robert.
Get off.
We never sent
for the plumber.
Oh hello.
It was Stokes.
Oh was it?
Robert this
is... what's your name?
Escott.
We plumb the depths,
it's my firms motto.
He says you sent for him.
Where's the trouble?
Awe, I see.
What's going on here?
I asked you what's
going on here?
He's come about the
plumbing Mr. Hebworth.
I took the liberty
of asking him
to come and look at it.
Didn't I Aggie?
You have no right
to take liberties.
I'm in charge here.
But we do need it
done Mr. Hebworth.
I mean, Mr. Milverton
was only saying yesterday
that there was a
very, ugly smell
coming from the piping.
Very well.
Carry on then.
He came in late
and went out early.
Thank you Mrs. Hudson.
Shame isn't it?
He was a fine
statesmen Watson.
It was his
diplomacy, I'm told,
which eased Anglo-French
relationships
at a most delicate
time some year's back.
To think that
I was there
with his widow when the
news was broken to her.
Milverton.
I exchanged a
word with him.
A more calculatingly
insincere smile
I never hope to see.
Charles Augustus.
And described to
me as a connoisseur
in art matters.
A businessman who
can make or raise
the fortunes
of any artist
to whom he
devotes himself.
Stems of hell!
He's a member of a
number of London clubs.
On the basis, I suppose,
that there are those
who do not oppose him.
Not the Diogenes.
I heard my
brother Microft
that he presented himself
and was turned away
with a flea in his ear.
You're gentleman
blackmailer
was born in Balum.
The only son of a
glazer and his wife.
Your source of
information?
Oh a variety of sources.
I applied your methods.
How have you faired?
I've entered the fortress
I'm a plumber with a
rising business,
Escott by name.
The butler, who goes under
the name of Hebworth,
is none other than
Veitch the footman,
who was shot in the face.
I'm certain of it.
Perhaps he was
employed by Milverton
as a reward for
keeping his silence
during the Kroft scandal.
I wonder.
You got air compression
in your cell pipes
Mr. Hebworth.
That's the cause of the
evil smell in this house.
What this warrants is
a save all below it
so the dirty water
don't get clogged up.
What the devil are
you doing here?
It's the plumber sir.
There's no need of a
plumber in this room.
Get out.
This is master's
special room.
and you stay out now.
Aggie?
I'll see you later
it's my plumber.
Aggie?
I don't care if I
do make him jealous.
His ideas are...
I don't like your
master Aggie.
I think he's a
shady character.
Your right he is.
Oh God.
Lillie.
She won't come
here for no job.
Why would she want
to work here for?
She was a real
lady's maid,
you could tell
by her clothes.
What was she after then?
I think you're getting
to a bit too curious.
Yes you are
and I'm getting cold.
Snuggling good.
Just a kiss.
I don't know how.
Poor boy.
Holmes
I've had an idea.
A way in which we can bring
this fellow Milverton
within the grasp
of the law.
If we could tempt
him to blackmail
an innocent person
we should have him.
Now suppose...
suppose I was to
be the recipient
of some indiscreet
letters.
You Watson?
Who would prey
write these letters?
Someone of our
acquaintance.
And you and your
plumbing persona
could offer them for sale.
And at the moment
of transaction
Lestrade would be on
hand to arrest him.
But legally we
cannot move
until some victim
is prepared
to sacrifice
their reputation
by going to the police.
There must be some way
we can fight this devil.
There is.
There is.
In a mere three
weeks, my love,
this all will be yours.
I feel unworthy of it.
Nonsense.
There's no woman on
earth more worthy.
I feel unwell.
I know what it
is your feeling.
It's your Uncle Charles,
I do understand.
We have our future ahead.
We have each other for
the rest of our lives.
Where can I find
Monsieur Vetron?
Sherlock Holmes.
Good evening monsieur.
You see I've
tried to bring
a little bit of
Paris to London.
Camille's method
is simple.
Camille?
C-A-M, C.A.M.
Watson, you know sometimes
you absolutely amaze me.
He allows it to be known
that he is prepared
to pay very high sums
for letters, which
compromise people
of wealth and position.
Do you receive, do you
receive these letters from
valets and maids?
Not only them
sometimes, how
do you say,
gentile ruffians
who have the confidence
and affection
of trusting women?
No one knows where
Camille's grip may fall.
You are his agent,
his conductor?
Me?
No, no, no, we go back
a number of years.
Really, people are
stupid enough
to trust their servants.
Did you help conduct a
housemaid to him recently?
And what his your
interest monsieur?
I have a friend
who may have
something to sell.
Oh yes?
Well come this way.
Tell me about him.
Well he needs to
know the procedure.
The matter is delicate.
Of course.
It always is.
He's a personal physician
to the Duke and
Duchess of Landish.
Now this housemaid
who came by recently?
She's here tonight
celebrating her birthday.
In a year from now
she'll be on the streets.
At whose expense?
Lady Eva Blackwell.
Engaged to the
Earl of Dovercourt.
Said to be married
within weeks.
She must submit
herself to our care.
Somehow without delay.
How dare you come
into this house?
How dare you?
My dear young lady
a show of temper
will avail
you nothing.
I can't pay you.
I haven't the
money to pay you.
Give me back my letters!
Please,
Ieave me alone.
You must be resourceful
in finding the money.
You have
influential friends.
Surely they'll
come to your aid.
No, they won't.
Who can I tell?
That's not my concern.
The Earl of
Dovercourt my lady.
Don't fuss.
Oh there's a good fellow.
Now Henry.
This is Mr. Milverton.
I'm honoured to
meet you my Lord.
And what is your
business here?
Business?
Shall we share
with his lordship
our little
secret Lady Eva?
No.
As you wish.
My card sir.
Thank you.
Good day to you both.
Stokes?
Hmmm?
What time is it?
Twenty past four.
How much longer Escott?
Well if you'll
forgive me
for saying so
Mr. Hebworth,
you're plumbing's in
the shocking stage.
It's the worst
I've ever seen.
Two more days
then you're out.
Come and see me tonight.
Woops.
Oh Aggie.
I have it under authority
that she rides this way
every Sunday afternoon.
Would you recognize her?
Well I've seen her
likeness in a magazine
if she's with
Dovercourt, I might.
Eva?
Boy get the horse.
I'm a Doctor.
Her godmother lives
just over there.
We could carry her
if it's safe to
lift her doctor.
Yes.
There's no injury
Darling?
I'm so sorry to be
of so much trouble.
You lay where
you are my dear.
You're in safe hands now.
Lady Swinstead.
All England shares
in your grief.
My colleague,
Doctor Watson,
is attending Lady Eva.
Poor child is
very disturbed
by the death
of my husband.
There's nothing
serious Lady Swinstead
but I would advise
you to make her rest
and get her own
doctor to see her.
Of course.
Thank you Doctor Watson.
May Lady Eva
need my services
please.
Eva?
It was Milverton
who caused her fall.
She saw his carriage.
He wrings the nerves
of his victims
to add to his already
swollen moneybags.
He is the worst
man in London.
Seething,
slithering and sly.
Yes, is there nothing
better we can do
than spend our
time here Holmes?
You have any suggestions?
Confront him.
Challenge him.
The brain before
the cudgel.
Meanwhile,
just like him,
he'll squeeze his victims
till he's drained them dry
and we're doing
nothing to stop him.
Holmes?
You must eat child.
What's troubling you?
Are you expecting
someone?
No.
I'm just thinking
about my wedding.
Now tell me the truth.
Gotcha!
What time do they
go to bed in
this house Aggie?
What do you want
to know for?
So I know when it's
safe to visit you.
You could always come
in over the wall.
Throw pebbles
at my window.
Which is your window?
I'll only tell you
if you marry me love.
Oh Aggie I can't.
Then I wont tell!
You have such a
way with words.
All right.
I'm at the very, very
top on the corner
and Master, he's
a floor below
but he's next
to the garden
and Monsieur Hebworth
he's on the ground floor
just across
from the study.
Lewis is sleeping don't
you come wake him.
There's a joke in
the servant's hall.
Why don't he
sleep upstairs?
Because the master
wants him on guard.
[unintelligible]
He's afraid of burglars.
Are you a burglar?
You touched my heart.
I will make you
a gift of mine.
Off you go.
Off you go.
Maximilian,
who let you out?
Stop.
Come here.
Robert, stop it.
Stop it.
I'll get you Escott.
He's just around
the corner.
What's this
bloody racket?
Well there...
Watson you'll be
interested to hear
that I'm engaged
to be married.
Oh yeah?
To the Milverton's
housemaid.
Good heavens.
I needed information.
Surely you've
gone too far!
It was a most
necessary step.
I've walked with
her,
talked with her.
Heaven knows, talks!
But the girl?
Can't help it Watson.
One must play one's
cards as best one can
when such a stake
is on the table.
However, I rejoice
to tell you
that I have a hated rival
that will cut me out
the moment my
back is turned.
What a splendid day it is.
Huh?
You like this weather?
She's here.
My father died
when I was 12.
My mother stays
in the country.
Lord and Lady Swinstead
have made London
home to me
but indeed they arranged
my season last year.
Give me your gloves.
Oh Mrs. Hudson,
what do you think
you're doing?
You haven't been out
this morning Mr. Holmes
and you don't have
to be a detective
to see that
this young lady
is recently up
from a sick bed.
Isn't that so my dear?
We must put some roses
back in those cheeks.
Thank you.
The broth is an
excellent idea.
Mrs. Hudson
will you vanish?
I said vanish!
He was my first love.
The son of some neighbours
of ours in Suffolk
but we were ill matched.
He had few prospects.
When I came
down to London
Iast year for the season
I broke off with him.
I didn't realize
how much I hurt him.
He returned my letters
and I put them
away in a trunk,
which I keep with me.
Now, the substance
of these letters?
They're just a
little foolish.
But sufficient to cause
your fiance misgiving?
Harry's so proud of me.
It frightens me sometimes
that I cannot
live up to
his expectation of me.
Was it your maid who
found these letters?
Lillie, yes!
I trusted her.
I cannot believe
she could have
betrayed me like this.
How would this Lillie
know about Milverton?
I think the idea
may have come to her
through a misfortune
that befell a
friend of mine,
Charlotte,
who was to have married
a Colonel Dorking.
And Mr. Milverton
sent her some letters.
They were very
distressing.
Lillie and I were there
when she received them.
To think the same
fate has befallen me.
It will be all
right, Lady Eva.
What could you do?
My marriage is
on the 18th.
He's demanding that
the money
be paid to him
four days prior to the
wedding, on the 14th,
on the day of the dance.
Dance?
Lord Dovercourt has
arranged a wedding feast
and invited
half of London.
I'm dreading it.
If you will place
yourself in my hands
I'll inform Mr. Milverton
that you've commissioned
me to meet him
to make the best
terms that I can, huh?
I have limited
resources Mr. Holmes.
But enough for me
to bargain with
I cannot approach
him empty handed.
Good.
Good.
Thank you.
My felicitations to
your Godmother.
Lady Eva?
You must trust Mr. Holmes
and his methods.
Absolutely.
Mrs. Hudson will
see you out.
That young lady, Holmes,
must be treated
with infinite care
unlike your other
recent escapade.
Oh Watson,
it took some
nerve for her
to come here alone.
It is my belief
that Lady Eva
and the
Milverton housemaid
have something in common.
And what is that?
Juice.
Watson, juice
in the face
of adversity.
Now Mr. Milverton.
Well, well, well.
Eva?
Eva?
Eva?
Eva?
Lottie!
I am so glad to see you.
Paris wasn't the answer.
You've been hard to find.
What were you doing?
I fell asleep.
Johnson told me about
your Uncle Charles.
I'm so sorry.
I stayed here to
comfort Diana but
this house is so sad.
We'll call again at 6:30.
C-A-M.
You ready?
Yes.
Mr. Sherlock Holmes.
This gentlemen
is it discreet?
Dr. Watson is my
friend and partner.
It is purely in the
interest of your client
that I protest it.
The matter is so
very delicate.
Dr. Watson has already
thought of that.
May I?
Oh, thank you.
Then we may proceed
to business.
You said in your note
that you are acting
for the Lady Eva,
are you empowered
to accept my terms?
What are your terms?
Seven thousand pounds.
And the alternative?
My dear sir,
it is painful for
me to discuss it
but I can say
that all of this is done
with most careful
consideration
and if the money
is not paid
on the 14th then
there certainly
will be no marriage
on the 18th.
We are, of
course, familiar
with the contents
of these letters.
We shall advise
our client
to tell her future
husband the whole story
and trust to
his generosity.
Well then you evidently
do not know the Earl.
What harm is there
in these letters?
They are sprightly
very sprightly.
The lady was a
charming correspondent.
But I assure you the
Earl of Dovercourt
will fail to
appreciate them.
However, if you
think otherwise,
it's purely a
matter of business.
If you think it in the
best interests
of your client
then it would
indeed be foolish
to pay so large
a sum of money.
You go too fast.
We would certainly
make every effort
to avoid scandal in
so delicate a matter.
I felt sure you would
see it in that light.
Damn you.
Lady Eva is not
a wealthy woman.
Two thousand pounds
would be total drain
on her resources.
The sum you named
utterly beyond her power.
Return the letters at
the price we indicate,
I assure you,
it is the highest
you can get.
What you say maybe true
of the lady's resources
but the surely the
occasion of her marriage
is it not a proper
time for her friends
and relations to make
some little effort
on her behalf?
They may hesitate
as to an acceptable
wedding present
but this little
bundle of letters
would bring more joy
than all the candelabras
and butter
dishes in London
wouldn't it?
It is not possible.
Oh dear me then.
How very unfortunate.
I cannot help
feeling that ladies
are ill advised
in not making an effort.
Look at this.
This belongs to,
well perhaps it's
hardly fair to tell you
to whom it belongs
until tomorrow morning
when it will
be in the hands
of the lady's husband.
And all because
she will not find
a beggarly sum
which she could
easily do
simply by turning
some of her
diamonds into paste.
It is such a pity!
You may have noticed
a small paragraph
recently in The
Morning Post.
The sudden end
of the engagement
between the
Honorable Miss Miles
and Colonel Dorking?
Yes and it's tragic
consequences.
That was tantamount
to murder!
How do you answer for
that Mr. Milverton?
How a man
conducts himself
under such circumstances
is a matter for
himself alone.
That is a monstrous
accession.
It was you
and you alone who
caused his death.
And the sum
involved niggardly.
Indeed a mere twelve
hundred pounds
would have settled
the whole question.
Pitiful isn't it?
And yet I find
you Mr. Holmes,
a man of sense,
boggling of terms
when the whole future
and honour of your
client is at stake.
You surprise me,
you do really!
The money cannot be found.
Surely it would
be better for you
to take the substantial
sum we offer
than to ruin this
young woman's career,
which can profit
you in no way.
But you're mistaken.
An exposure would
profit me indirectly
to a considerable degree.
I have eight or ten
similar cases
materializing.
If it is circulated
that I have made
a severe example
of Lady Eva.
I'll shall find the rest
much more open to reason.
Do you see my point?
Let us see the contents
of those letters.
Mr. Holmes.
Mr. Holmes, I've
been expecting you
to do something original.
This has been tried
so often before.
Young Edward
Kroft for one.
Kroft?
The footman Veitch
who took the bullet that
was rightfully yours.
You've done
some work on me.
So you must know that
nothing ever came
of an attack on my person.
I'm armed to the teeth
at all times
and I'm perfectly prepared
to use my weapons
and knowing that the
law will support me.
You may well
have your chance
to test your assumption.
Mrs. Hudson I am
not to be disturbed.
Go.
Mr. Holmes surely
you don't believe
I'd be so foolish to
carry my livelihood
here in my pocket?
Just making sure
Mr. Milverton.
Well now, gentlemen,
I have one or two little
interviews this evening
and it's a long
drive to Hampstead.
Now, someone has dealt
Milverton a blow.
An outraged husband
just as there
are thousands
in this great city
who crave Milverton's
destruction
and may yet beat us to it.
Holmes?
I'm as fond of
art as any man
but don't you think after
yesterday's encounter...
Art is balm to the brain
especially in
moments of decision.
So we've learned
something about Milverton.
That he's ruthless
is hardly a revelation.
And that of his vanity
and to a certain
measure his vulnerability.
I can see that the
damage to his carriage
might have unsettled him.
We must exploit
such things.
Wanton vandalism.
Any chink in the armor.
Mr. Holmes,
this is my friend
the Honorable
Charlotte Miles.
Mr. Sherlock Holmes
and his partner
Mr. Watson.
Lady Eva, may speak
privately to you?
Mrs. Miles
please accept
our sympathy.
Mr. Holmes and I
are fully aware of
your situation.
That is most kind of
you Doctor Watson
but one has to live
with one's mistakes.
He was unyielding.
Now, the next move
requires your
delicate cooperation.
I'll do anything
you say Mr. Holmes.
The dance in your honour?
On the 14th.
Good afternoon!
Mr. Stokes?
I told you I was not
to be disturbed girl
what is it?
It's Mr. Sherlock
Holmes to see you sir.
"Oh Aggie, you've
touched my heart."
Mr. Holmes?
I'm here to inform you
that my client
accepts your terms.
She's acted
with perspicacity.
She begs but
a small favour.
What is it?
That the exchange be
delayed until the 1 5th.
The Earl has
arranged a dance
for the previous night
and she is somewhat
preoccupied with that.
The dance, yes.
So 10 o'clock the
following morning
we can do business?
Seven thousand pounds?
As agreed.
Here or at Baker Street?
Here, Baker Street.
Neutral ground perhaps.
The Diogenes club
you are a member?
May I?
Tell me this
sudden turnabout
was it on your advice?
I could not abandon
my client to her fate,
Mr. Milverton.
You are the victor.
What a divine fragrance.
My late husband
and I were
something of a
second family to her
so you see my concern?
This man who is
blackmailing her?
Charles Augustus
Milverton
he's an art dealer.
Yes.
I've heard of him.
He's well placed
to hear the gossip
and do his worst.
What view does Mr.
Holmes take of it?
Well I'm sure he has
something in mind
but he seldom
confides in me
till the last minute.
Ah, Holmes.
Lady Swinstead is fully
primed for the situation.
Time is running out,
Mr. Holmes.
If it is a question
of paying the money...
That will not
be necessary.
You can give
assurance then?
That would be unwise
in me Lady Swinstead
but I assure you
I will give it my best.
I shall have to be
satisfied with that then.
Mr. Holmes?
This man must be
silenced.
Does she know
about Milverton?
By name?
Yes I told her.
Was that wrong of me?
Oh Watson, these bills,
they must be paid.
Oh, incidentally I
managed to secure
an invitation for us both
to the Dovercourt dance.
The house is some
miles from London
but in reach for
my purposes.
What purposes?
I intend to burgle
the Milverton
house that night.
For heaven's sake, Holmes,
think what you're doing.
Well, let us look at
it fairly and clearly.
You will admit
that the cause is
morally justifiable.
Yes.
Technically criminal.
No more than raiding
his pockets, a cause,
which you were perfectly
willing to help me.
That was on the
spur of the moment
not on the cold
light of reason.
Reason?
Is there reasoning
to be done, Watson?
Nothing to test my brain?
That's the curse of it.
Think!
If you're caught,
an honoured career
ending in failure
and public disgrace.
What failure?
What disgrace?
Against defeat!
You know me well enough
that I would never adopt
so objectionable a course
if another
were possible.
I must have those letters.
And I have the house in
the palm of my hand.
The cudgel
before the brain.
What of the
odious Milverton?
Do you think he's just
going to open his gates
and invite you
to stroll in?
Milverton will
be at the dance
as the guest
of Lady Eva's.
That's monstrous, Holmes.
My self-respect and
reputation are at stake
it's the only way.
Well, I don't like it,
any of it.
You have nothing to fear.
Eva?
Mrs. Hudson, why did
you tidy for me?
Where the hell
are my shoes?
Shoes?
Yes.
Masks?
Black silk handkerchief.
I see you have
a natural turn
for this sort of thing.
I wonder where
I learned it.
Take the usual
precautions tonight,
Hebworth.
I will.
Enjoy your evening.
The people are at
risk here Holmes.
Yes indeed.
We leave in
eight minutes.
Excuse me sir,
Her ladyship would like
to see you upstairs.
Harry.
That man
is he an invited guest?
Milverton.
Yes it's something
Eva schemed.
The painting.
The old girl is
probably trying to
whittle down the price
by inviting him here.
Don't worry
yourself Diana.
It's all right.
How strange
to see you here
Mr. Holmes.
Mixing business
with pleasure?
There's no doubt you are.
Purely pleasure this
evening Mr. Holmes
I assure you
You will be keeping
our appointment.
Sir.
I am expecting a visitor
in a half an hour.
Sir.
Servants are playing
while the master's away.
Holmes?
Milverton's carriage,
no time to lose the door.
You made me curtail
my evening's
entertainment.
I hope you prove worth it.
You couldn't have come at
a more sociable time?
Well if you couldn't,
you couldn't
if the Countess
is a hard mistress
you have a chance now
to get even with her.
Bless the girl, what
are you shivering about?
That's right!
Pull yourself together.
Now then, let's get
down to business.
You say you have five
letters, which compromise
the Countess D'Albert?
You want to sell them.
I want to buy them.
So far, so good.
So it remains to
fix the price.
Of course I shall want
to examine the letters.
If they prove to be
good specimens then...
Great heavens, it is you?
A woman whose life
you have ruined.
You were so very obstinate!
Paris twelve years ago.
Why did you drive me
to such extremities?
An episode long closed.
I wouldn't hurt a
fly of my own accord.
You waited for the moment
when the stakes was
most worth winning.
What was I to do?
I put the price well
within your means.
Instead you sent the
letters to my husband.
You would not pay.
A man whose boots I was
never worthy to lace-
you broke his
gallant heart,
vile creature.
That day I came
here I prayed,
I begged you for mercy,
and you laughed
at my face
as you are trying
to laugh now,
your coward
heart cannot keep
you lips from trembling.
Don't imagine that
you can bully me
I'm only to raise my voice
You will ruin
no more lives.
I can call my servants
and have you arrested.
You will wring
no more hearts
as you have wrung mine
Charles Milverton.
I will make allowance
for your natural anger.
Leave the room at once
and I'll say no
more about it.
I will free the world
of a poisonous thing.
You've done me.
The fire.
Lady Swinstead,
you're free.
Run!
Run!
Now gentlemen
the sale of the property
of Charles A. Milverton
described, deceased.
Lot one,
a box of
miscellaneous objects,
trinkets,
correspondence,
do hear five pounds?
Thank you sir.
The steward from the
Vetron household
making sure.
Lot two,
bust of Athena,
ancient Goddess of
wisdom, industry and war.
Now what do I have for
this fine marble statue?
Ten pounds?
Twenty?
Twenty pounds.
Thirty?
I have thirty pounds.
Fifty.
I have fifty pounds sir.
Sixty?
Eighty?
Eighty pounds.
Ninety?
Ninety pounds
against you sir.
At ninety.
One hundred pounds.
More sir?
Sold to the
gentleman over there
for one hundred pounds.
Mr. Holmes!
Bought it in an
auction, Mrs. Hudson.
It cost a hundred pounds.
Why has he smashed it?
I thought there might
be something in it.
I'm more than happy to
say that I was wrong.
Thank you Mrs. Hudson
Why, as a point of
interest, Holmes,
did the Frenchman
want it?
Sentimental reasons.
Just making sure.
No Watson!
There are certain aspects
of which I am not proud.
Please,
bury this case,
deep in your pocket.