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Screenplay by Scott Darling & Edward T. Lowe, based on a free adaptation of "The Dancing Men" (later "The Adventure of the Dancing Men") by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, released as SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE SECRET WEAPON [Los Angeles: Universal Pictures], 22 May-17 June 1942. [1],110 leaves plus numerous numbered or lettered revised inserts or appended leaves. Quarto. Original carbon typescript on rectos only of onion skin stock denoted "Contract File Copy" in red. Brad bound in typed wrappers (neatly detached). Production number stamped on upper wrapper, upper wrapper heavily creased, with resulting cracks in brittle stock and small chips, but the typescript itself is FINE (in GOOD-VERY GOOD detached wrappers). Vintage original film script, USA. A very early revised pre-production script, in highly privileged format, of this adaptation to the screen for Universal's distinguished series of Sherlock Holmes adaptations. This particular copy includes the revisions and "additional…

"The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" is a collection of twelve short stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, first published in 1892. The stories feature Sherlock Holmes, a brilliant consulting detective, and his friend and chronicler, Dr. John H. Watson. Set in Victorian London, each narrative presents a unique mystery for Holmes to solve, showcasing his remarkable deductive reasoning skills and attention to detail. The collection begins with "A Scandal in Bohemia," where Holmes is tasked with recovering compromising photographs of the King of Bohemia and his former lover, Irene Adler. The subsequent stories include mysteries ranging from stolen jewels ("The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle") to mysterious disappearances ("The Adventure of the Engineer's Thumb") and perplexing coded messages ("The Adventure of the Dancing Men"). In "The Adventure of the Speckled Band," Holmes investigates the death of a young woman and uncovers a venomous snake used as a murder weapon. "The Adventure of the Red-Headed League" involves a bizarre scheme to distract a pawnbroker. Meanwhile, in "The Adventure of the Final Problem," Holmes faces his arch-nemesis, Professor Moriarty, in a deadly confrontation at the Reichenbach Falls. Throughout these stories, Watson narrates the tales, highlighting Holmes' brilliant deductions, logical reasoning, and mastery of disguise. Each mystery is intricately woven, providing readers with a thrilling blend of suspense, intelligence, and unexpected twists. Conan Doyle's vivid portrayal of Victorian London, along with the dynamic between Holmes and Watson, captivates readers as they navigate the criminal underworld, encountering various characters and engaging in thrilling adventures. "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" remains a cornerstone of detective fiction, laying the foundation for the archetype of the astute detective. Doyle's ingenious storytelling and the enduring appeal of Holmes' intellect continue to resonate with readers, solidifying the collection's place in literary history as a timeless classic.