Basil Rathbone, Word Detective (1959 - 1960)

Well,  I guess we have a Basil Rathbone trio of shows on our hands! In previous posts, I started with the amusing Tales of Fatima,  then shared the exciting intrigue of Europe Confidential , and now to complete the three,  I present a bit of educational fun,  called   Basil Rathbone, Word Detective.

Sponsored by the Underwood Typewriter Company,  this was an informal three-minute journey into etymology.  Rathbone begins each installment with a colourful anecdote,  a historical story which is the origin of the word of the day, designed to intrigue and tantalise (in fact, "tantalise' is one of the word detailed in an episode).  He then says,  "I'll type out that phrase for you on my Underwood typewriter", after which he reveals the mystery word that occaisioned the story.  I found them very entertaining and informative,  and,  as usual,  Rathbone's voice is wonderful to listen to.  I'm always amazed by the clarity of his diction.  

I've supplied five installments below,  and have listed the word around which each episode is based.  This is a rare and wonderful bit of radio history,  and a must-hear for fans of the legendary Basil Rathbone.

Click each word below to download a different installment of
Basil Rathbone,  Word Detective