THE BOGUS BILLS CASE and THE RENE BENET PROTECTION CASE RICHARD DIAMOND, PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Bogus Bills Case" and "The Rene Benet Protection Case"

Podcast: 1001 Radio Crime Solvers
Host: Jon Hagadorn
Episode Date: August 24, 2025
Stories: Episodes of Richard Diamond, Private Investigator starring Dick Powell

Overview

This episode features two classic detective stories from the golden age of radio: "The Bogus Bills Case" and "The Rene Benet Protection Case." Both cases center on the dry-witted, smooth-talking private detective Richard Diamond as he navigates through criminal schemes in 1940s New York. The stories blend crime drama, clever banter, and humor with engaging mysteries and memorable characters.

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Case One: The Bogus Bills Case

Theme

A string of expertly forged five-dollar bills hits the streets, bringing Diamond into a web of counterfeiting, murder, and a neighborhood kid in trouble.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Highlights

1. Street-level Discovery

• Richard Diamond (01:29) sets the cynical tone of his detective work before stopping by a newsstand and discovering his friend, Jeff the newsboy, has been given a counterfeit bill ([03:31]).
• Richard explains the bill is one of the best forgeries he’s seen:

  "That's right. Good job, too. Paper's not too good." (Richard Diamond, 04:34)

2. Trail to the 5th Precinct

• Diamond heads to the police (05:57), encountering his friendly nemesis, Lieutenant Levinson, and the much-abused Sergeant Otis.
• The humor of their relationship is front-and-center:

  "You can lose a whole can of polish in the cracks." (Richard Diamond to Otis, 06:22)

3. Identifying and Chasing a Suspect

• Jeff spots the man who passed him the phony bill at a nearby bar ([09:06]).
• Diamond confronts and searches the suspect, leading to a classic barroom tussle and comic exchanges with the bartender ([10:14]–[11:12]).
• The suspect, Bo Walker, flees, and Diamond follows him to a gambling den linked to the counterfeit ring ([12:38]).

4. The Fake Money Scheme

• Diamond deduces the backroom is being used to circulate counterfeit bills as gambling winnings:

  "Good way to get rid of bad money. Pay the winner off with counterfeit." (Richard Diamond, 12:46)

5. Murder and Escalation

• In a twist, Walker is killed before he can reveal the higher-ups ([15:17]). Diamond realizes the killer shot him from outside.
• Diamond and Levinson recall "Dad Foster," an ex-counterfeiter who now runs a bar on 53rd Street, possibly tied to the ring ([16:47]).

6. The Kid in Jeopardy

• Diamond involves newsboy Jeff to watch the suspect bar, unwittingly putting him in harm’s way. Eavesdropping, Jeff overhears criminal plans and tries to call the police, but is caught ([18:25]–[19:45]).
• The crooks, revealed as Dad Foster and Mary Lou (the ice cream parlor owner), plot to silence Jeff ([20:01]).

7. The Showdown & Resolution

• Diamond confronts Dad Foster, is taken at gunpoint, and discovers the counterfeiting press hidden as ice cream equipment ([21:48]–[22:36]).
• As Diamond is marched to his doom, police arrive for a climactic alleyway fight; Foster and his crew are arrested ([23:44]).

8. Lighthearted Conclusion

• Jeff, now safe, is treated to a steak dinner at Helen Asher’s home with Diamond ([24:31]), humor peppering their banter.
• The episode ends with Diamond serenading Helen, closing on a comedic note about hip boots and dessert ([27:00]–[28:44]).

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Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Humor with the Police:

  "That face could start a Harry Carey epidemic." (Diamond to Otis, 06:36)

• On Counterfeiting:

  "If I mash you anymore, they'll be able to use you for wallpaper." (Diamond, 14:43)

• Jeff’s Pluck:

  "You only learn by mistakes. I made a big one, so I'm out five. I'll get along." (Jeff, 05:08)

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Notable Timestamps

• [01:29] — Introduction to Diamond's world
• [03:31] — Discovery of counterfeit bill
• [07:37] — Bickering with police, comic relief
• [09:06] — Jeff spots the suspect again
• [12:38] — Counterfeit gambling den
• [15:17] — Suspect murdered mid-confession
• [16:47] — Dad Foster's introduction
• [18:25]–[19:45] — Jeff endangered, calls police
• [21:48] — Confrontation with Dad Foster
• [23:44]–[24:31] — Final takedown; resolution
• [27:00] — Diamond sings; lighthearted close

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Case Two: The Rene Benet Protection Case

Theme

Diamond is hired undercover to protect French milliner Rene Benet’s latest hat creations from industrial espionage; murder and fashion world intrigue ensue.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Highlights

1. Undercover in the Fashion World

• Diamond, posing as "Richard of Hollywood," banters with Benet, winsomely dismissing hat minutiae ([35:08]–[36:18]).
• Benet is certain his partner or rival will steal his new designs:

  "I'm sure of it. And I'm also sure that someone in my salon is responsible for the actual theft." (Benet, 35:47)

2. Rivalries, Suspects, and Sharp Tongues

• Benet’s partner, Gerald Winters, and his model Lillian, are introduced with quips and petty fights ([37:04]–[37:22]).
• Lillian flirtatiously sparrs with Diamond, suspecting he’s not what he claims:

  "You don't act much like a hat designer, Richard. More like you should be playing football." (Lillian, 39:08)

3. The Stakeout and Death

• Benet is killed in a car crash, quickly determined to be murder.

  "Binet was murdered." (Diamond, 45:10)
  Fire is suspiciously set with a cigarette—though Binet didn’t smoke.

4. Classic Detective Work

• Diamond and Levinson question suspects:
  • Winters (partner): Inherits the business
  • Lillian (model): No clear alibi
  • George Marchand (rival designer): Claims innocence but is tied by reputation ([49:08])
• Diamond observes tell-tale clues: The killer wore gloves on a hot night and called another suspect by name before introductions.

5. The Trap and Confession

• Levinson and Diamond set a late-night stakeout in Benet’s salon ([52:10]).
• Lillian is caught trying to steal the designs ([54:00]), quickly joined by Marchand.
• Diamond unravels the case, casually referencing small details:

  "The killer wore gloves and it was too hot that night for a man to wear them without looking suspicious." (Diamond, 54:41)

• Marchand and Lillian turn on each other, each confessing their roles in the plot ([56:00]).

6. Mood-Lightening Finish

• Back at Helen’s, Diamond serenades her from the window with a sweet ballad—testing the neighbors’ patience ([58:07]).

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Memorable Moments & Quotes

• On Detective Fees and Hats:

  "For a hundred dollars a day in expenses, I'll grow a mattress on his skull." (Diamond, 34:42)

• Diamond and Lillian’s flirtation:

  "Well, I started by designing helmets for Notre Dame." (Diamond, 39:18)

• Humorous police banter:

  "Take the marbles out of your mouth. What did you say?" (Diamond to Otis, 45:04)

• The Reveal:

  "He never would have gone for that riot otherwise. Benet didn't smoke, so the killer was an amateur and started the fire with a cigarette." (Diamond, 54:41)

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Notable Timestamps

• [35:08]–[36:18] — Benet hires Diamond, hat-banter
• [39:08] — Lillian flirts, suspects Diamond
• [45:10] — Benet’s murder confirmed
• [52:10]–[54:00] — Nighttime stakeout, Lillian caught
• [54:41]–[56:46] — Case solution and confessions
• [58:07]–[59:05] — Diamond’s window serenade finale

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Closing Style and Mood

• Witty, Rapid-fire Dialogue: Barbs between Diamond, Levinson, Otis, and suspects create a lively, comic baseline.
• Atmospheric New York Setting: From diners and bars to shadowy alleys and swanky salons, the city is as much a character as any person.
• Blend of Tension and Humor: Even amidst murder and criminal intrigue, the show maintains a light touch—Diamond’s wisecracks keep the tone brisk and entertaining.

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For New Listeners

These episodes are quintessential golden-age radio detective fare: sharp, funny, and suspenseful. Dick Powell’s Richard Diamond is a template for the charming, sardonic hard-boiled detective, equally at home trading blows or trading wisecracks.

If you love vintage mysteries, quick-witted banter, and classic noir plots, these cases are must-listen nostalgia from radio’s golden era.

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Listen for:

• The interplay of humor and suspense
• Colorful supporting characters like Jeff the newsboy and Sergeant Otis
• Diamond’s musical interludes—signature to the character

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Transcript

[Richard Diamond]

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[Narrator]

Here's Dick Powell as Richard diamond, private detective.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello there. This is Diamond. I've got a little office near 53rd street on Broadway, 8th floor. My business trouble. What kind of trouble? Well, take your pick. If you come up with something unusual, a new kind of trouble, drop around and see me. Because I'm known along the big street as a shamus, a gumshoe, or to the guy on Park Avenue as a private detective. If you happen to be stuck with your problem, for $100 a day in expenses, I'll chase it around until I can catch up and break its back. I average about 20 fast rounds a week with old man trouble, and so far the decision's been on my side. But don't misunderstand me. It's my business to beat him, but I respect him. Trouble goes to work with every trick in the book, so I play it the same way. And believe me, when I put him away for the count, I don't clap my little hands in glee. I know he's just taking a rest and he'll be back again with some new stunts. Wanna know how he works? Well, the other day I was on the way to my office. I stopped at The Corner Newsstand, 53rd and Broadway, to buy a paper and to say hello to an old friend.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Hi, Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, hello, Jeff. How's the newspaper business?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Swell. How's the detective racket?

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, swell.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Hey, you don't sound too happy, Jeff.

[Richard Diamond]

I couldn't Be happier if my hair was on fire. Take my advice, son. When you grow up, be sure and get a job that pays off every week in that little white envelope. Don't ever become a private detective. It's like a penny getting lost in a gun machine.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I'm gonna stick to the newspaper business.

[Richard Diamond]

Good for you.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Say, I was just about to go across the street to Mary Lou's and get some ice cream. How about it? Can I buy you a cone?

[Richard Diamond]

Now, that is a beautiful idea. Let's go.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Aren't you coming to work a little late, Mr. Diamond?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, you see, Jeff, I was up kind of late. Research, you know.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah, I know. I see him going into your office all the time. That blonde last week stopped traffic all the way to 42nd Street.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah, she was lovely. Got tired of social standards and shot her husband right through his morning cup of coffee.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Was that the one in the headlines?

[Richard Diamond]

That's the one.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, hello, Chad. Hi, Mary Lou. Take a seat, Mr. Diamond. Well, what have you and your friend have? Well, I'm gonna have a double strawberry. How about it, Mr. Diamond?

[Richard Diamond]

Sounds great.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Double strawberries. This is Mr. Diamond, Mary Lou. His office is in that building across the street. Oh, how do you do?

[Richard Diamond]

How are you, Mary?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

All right, I guess. Business could get better and I wouldn't mind at all. Here are your cones. This is on me, Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, no. Now, put it away.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, now, come on. I asked you over and that makes it my treat. Here's a 5. Mary Lou. Mr. Diamond's money isn't any good today.

[Richard Diamond]

Tell you what I'll do. Jeff, give me a five a minute. Sure.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Here.

[Richard Diamond]

Now, if you can tell me whose picture's on this bill, you can buy the cones.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

That a deal?

[Richard Diamond]

That's a deal, Lincoln.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, what's the matter? That's right, isn't it?

[Richard Diamond]

Mm. Oh, yeah.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What's wrong?

[Richard Diamond]

Where did you get this bill, Jeff?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, I just made change for it a few minutes. Hey, what's the matter with that bill? You two act like you'd never seen a five dollar bill before.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, this thin's counterfeit.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What?

[Richard Diamond]

That's right. Good job, too.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You sure?

[Richard Diamond]

Yep. One of the best engraving jobs I've ever run across. Paper's not too good.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, that's swell. That's real great. I get jipped out of a whole five bucks.

[Richard Diamond]

Who gave it to you?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I remember the guy all right. He came by just before you did. Made change for him, the heel.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Five bucks is a lot of papers.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I'll say it is. Well, maybe you're wrong. You could be not, Mr. Diamond. He's a private detective. Used to be a cop.

[Richard Diamond]

Look, Jeff, mind if I take this bill along with me?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Nah. What good's it gonna do me?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, it's not so bad. Here, I'll give you a good five for it.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No, sir. You only learn by mistakes. I made a big one, so I'm out five. I'll get along.

[Richard Diamond]

Look, it's worth the five. I'm just buying it from you.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Sure, Jeff, Go ahead and take it. Thanks a lot, Mr. Diamond, but I just can't.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay, Jeff. Maybe I can find the guy who slipped this to you. Maybe we can get your five back.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What are you going to do?

[Richard Diamond]

Take a run down to the Fifth Precinct. See how much of this stuff is floating around New York now. I want you to do something for me, Jeff.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Sure, anything.

[Richard Diamond]

I want you to keep an eye out for the guy who gave you this phone.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I'm way ahead of you.

[Richard Diamond]

Now, that's what I'm afraid of. I want you to promise me if you do spot him, not to do anything until he get in touch with me. Promise?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah. Okay.

[Richard Diamond]

I'll be at the station. Ask for Lieutenant Levinson's office.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Right.

[Richard Diamond]

Here's for the ice cream, Mary Lou. Good ice cream, too.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, thanks. I make it here, right and back. Take a cord home some night.

[Richard Diamond]

I always do, but it generally has a cork in it. I left Mary Lou's ice cream parlor and headed for the 5th Precinct Police Station. I don't usually start something like that, but when a kid gets fleeced out of a whole day's pay, I get a little hot under the collar. I walked into the squadroom and spotted Sergeant Otis putting shine on his big shoes.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, it's you, Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Now, what good is that gonna do you, Otis? You can lose a whole can of polish in the cracks.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What do you mean, my shoes ain't cracked so bad?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, maybe not, but I've seen bacon that look better.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

If you want to see the lieutenant, go on in.

[Richard Diamond]

Thank you, Sergeant. Until we meet again. Why don't you stop trying to be so funny, Sergeant? I'll do it if you'll do something for me. What? Cut off your head. That face could start a Harry Carey epidemic.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Hello, Walt.

[Richard Diamond]

Now, what the devil's he aha about? What do you mean? That bilious explosion you just popped up with. Sound like you just swallowed a whole pineapple. Why? What do you mean, why? Who's dead?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Huh?

[Richard Diamond]

The body you said you found a Body, I said. Oh, no, no, Walt. You're not built for it.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Who?

[Richard Diamond]

No, Walt, it's my routine. It won't work for you. Oh, I don't know what you're talking about. Why, sure you do. You wanted to know who's dead. Well, I'm not gonna tell you. Huh? Don't try to be cute with me. You know what it's all about. And I'm not going to be the fall guy. You just hunt for the body. Wait a minute. I don't know anything about a body. You wanted to know who's dead, didn't you? Sure, but that was just a gag. Okay, have your fun, but I'm not going to tell you. Tell me what? Who's dead. You mean somebody really is? What are you talking about? Well, I'm talking about what you just said. Now, who's dead? That's a stupid question.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Why is it?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, if you don't know who's dead, what the devil are you doing in charge of homicide? Go on over to the robbery details. Now, you wait a minute. You said. Yes, Walt. Oh, get out of here. I did not. I never said, oh, get out of here. When I came in, I said, hello, Walt, and you said, aha. Then I said, what do you mean, huh? You wanted to know where the body was. I did not. I said, who's dead? Why? Oh, no, no, no, no, please. I'm an old man. Oh, Walt. Get away from that window and take a look at this. Oh, please. Do I have to? It'll probably explode. Now, be a good boy and open your little eyes. All right, But I just know I'll be sorry. Here. You don't owe me any money. Well, if I did, I'd make sure to pay you off in this stuff. Why? What's wrong with. Where'd you get this? Some guy slipped it to Jeff, the newsboy. He got change for it. That certainly is a nice stunt. Well, maybe the guy didn't know he was passing counterfeit. I doubt it. You don't give a newsboy five bucks for a paper. Okay, tell me about it. This stuff has been flooding the city. We can't get a lead picked up. A couple of passes, but they won't crack. How did it work? Look, Rick, this isn't my department. The treasury boys are working on it right now. Why don't you go over and talk to them? Well, if you want to be snooty about it. Now, you wait a minute. Diamond. Yeah. Lieutenant Levinson, Homicide.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Is Mr. Diamond there?

[Richard Diamond]

Wait a minute, Rick. It's for you. Yeah? Wait just a minute here, Diamond. And if you're mixed up in something, what? Be quiet. Hello?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Mr. Diamond?

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah, Jeff.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah, I just spotted the guy who slipped me the phony bill. He went into the bar next to the ice cream parlor.

[Richard Diamond]

You stay where you are. I'll be right over.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I'll be at the stand.

[Richard Diamond]

Rick. Yeah, Please, Walt. Yeah. Bye.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Paper. Paper. Ladies issue paper.

[Richard Diamond]

Jeff.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, Mr. Diamond. He hasn't come out yet. He's still in the bar.

[Richard Diamond]

Come on.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Where are we going?

[Richard Diamond]

Leave your papers for a second. I want you to point him out.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Okay. He's a big guy. You better be careful.

[Richard Diamond]

Big guys always make me careful.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You want me to go in with you?

[Richard Diamond]

Just stick your head in the door and point him out. And then go on back to your papers. If I start bleeding, I'll scream. See him?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No. Yeah, there he is, over in that booth.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, well, well.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You know him?

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Go on back to your stand.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, golly, Mr. Diamond, can't I.

[Richard Diamond]

No, Jeff. Go on back.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Okay.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello, Walker.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, what do you want, Shammas?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, I'll have a talk. Mind if I sit down?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Does it make any difference?

[Richard Diamond]

Not much. Then sit. You passed a phony five spot this morning. I did?

[Narrator]

Well, shame on me.

[Richard Diamond]

How many more you got on you? I don't know what you're talking about. You want me to turn you upside down? Shake it out of you, Diamond. Yeah, Bo Walker.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, you. Michael. Oh, my arm.

[Richard Diamond]

You want it back?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Now, let's see your pocket.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Okay. Okay.

[Richard Diamond]

Get on your feet. I want to see what you're doing. All right. Okay. Dump them.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Hey, hey, what's going on here?

[Richard Diamond]

Just relax, Bar. I'm taking care of some business.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

There ain't gonna be any rough stuff in my joint, so you better relax. Sonny.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Make this guy take his big paws off of me. He's trying to shake me down.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, yeah?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You want me to call the cops, Sonny?

[Richard Diamond]

Maybe that's not a bad idea. How about it, Walker? You want him to call the law?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I don't care who he calls. Just get out of my way.

[Richard Diamond]

Diamond, you're not going anywhere.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Now, I told you to lay off Sonny, and I meant it. Now, let him go.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You hear me?

[Richard Diamond]

Look out, he's making a break.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Just let him be.

[Richard Diamond]

Get out of my way. Pop, you're too old to lose another set of teeth.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I ain't turning you loose until that guy makes the street.

[Richard Diamond]

Sorry, Pop. You.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Mr. Diamond. What happened?

[Richard Diamond]

You see which way you went?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah. There it goes, around that corner.

[Richard Diamond]

Stay at the ice cream parlor, Jeff, so I can get you if I need you. I took off like a seagull in the hurricane. I turned the corner and spotted my man jumping into our cab, so I did the same. He led me across town to a little dive on 13th street and got out of his cab. My boy parked up the block and we watched while Walker looked around for a tail. When he was satisfied he'd given me the shake, he went in. I paid off my cabbie and followed. It was another bar and Walker wasn't anywhere in the room. I sat down, ordered a beer and waited. After about 10 minutes, I saw a couple of guys wander out of a door in the back. A couple of minutes later, a couple of more wandered out, so I wandered in. It was small time gambling setup. The kind you can throw in the back of your car if the cops come. I started getting that lousy feeling again. You don't just walk into a place like that unless someone wants you to. And if they do, it's usually because they got it fixed. So you stay around. Maybe permanently.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What are you telling me for, Diamond?

[Richard Diamond]

Why? Make you uncomfortable? Yeah, that's cozy. Setup. Good way to get rid of bad money. Pay the winner off with counterfeit.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I think we'd better go back to my office.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, I don't know. I might have a little fun here. I'll bet if one of those guys at the table knew he was going to be paid off in counterfeit, he'd just about tear this place apart. And you too, Diamond.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Don't be stupid.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, something new's been added.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah, and it makes so much noise when it goes off. Let's go back to my office, huh?

[Richard Diamond]

For some reason, I just can't think of a good argument not to.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

This way.

[Richard Diamond]

Have a seat. My ankles get lumpy when I sit down. Bad circulation.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Then stand on your head.

[Richard Diamond]

It doesn't work. I keep talking to Toes all day.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

How'd you get onto this setup?

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, luck. You passed a bad bill to a newspaper boy. He spotted you for me. You know what happens to you? No. Matter fact, I was thinking, what's gonna happen to you? What do you mean? Treasury Boys, Homicide, 5th Precinct. And tomorrow we're taking a full page ad in the Times. Usually do a big business. You're lying. Okay, I think I'll sit down while you wrestle with it.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You mean the team? I know about this place and me.

[Richard Diamond]

The only way they'll get to know you any better is when they give You a room number at Sing Sing? Oh, you mind if I put my feet up? Sure, go ahead. He kept asking questions, not waiting for answers. He was good and worried, and as long as I could keep him that way, the longer I was going to keep on breathing.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I don't believe one rotten thing you said, Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay. He kept trying to convince himself that I was lying. He wanted to shoot me in the worst way. He moved around behind his desk and sat down, bless his little heart. I had both feet on the front of his desk, so I shoved out as hard as I could. I pinned him against the wall with the desk and jumped up to get better leverage. I shoved so hard the front of the desk nearly cut him in two. He was stuck and he couldn't use his arms. I can't breathe. You want to tell me about it?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I don't know thing.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay. You'll look pretty silly from the waist down. Come on, Walker. If I mash you anymore, they'll be able to use you for wallpaper.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Okay.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay. Now, leave the gun in your pocket, and when I pull the desk back, put your hands on top of it. You try a stunt and you end up in halves.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Okay, what do you want to know?

[Richard Diamond]

Who's the big wheel behind the counterfeit ring?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You give me a chance.

[Richard Diamond]

If I tell you, no deals.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Can't blame me for trying.

[Richard Diamond]

All right, you try it now. You want back in the vice? No, no, no, no.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I'll tell you. Walker.

[Richard Diamond]

Walker. He died with his head rolled back and his eyes staring up like he wanted to starve for trying to. Whoever shot him had been out in the alley and had nailed him through the window. I looked out, but the killer had disappeared. So I put in a call to Homicide and finally Walt and his boys arrived. Diamond, don't you ever get tired of corpses? Well, of course not. I just do my bit and try to make you happy. You want me to call the wagon.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

And get the coroner down here, Lieutenant?

[Richard Diamond]

No, Otis. I thought we might all sit around and wait for the dead man to say something. I was only asking, Lieutenant. Well, start using that mallet head of yours. You, mallet head, make a report.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Okay.

[Richard Diamond]

Now, Diamond, I want to know how you got mixed up in this thing. Well, the dead man was the one who slipped the paperboy the phony 5. I tailed him and he was just about to tell me who was behind the ring when he got a hole in his head. Oh, he was gonna tell you, was he? Just like that? What did you do, set his clothes on fire? No, we were playing Truth and Consequences and he fibbed, so I. Now, you stop that. This guy was the only link we had on the counterfeit ring. And you have to fix it so he dies. Rick, there's enough phony money floating around New York right now to start another Black Friday. This is the best setup we've run into since dad Foster operated in 1937. Dad Foster? Yeah, dad Foster. You remember hearing about him? Yeah. Is he still doing time? No. He served his sentence and he's gone straight ever since. How do you know? Where is he? He runs a Little Saloon on 53rd Street. 53rd? Thanks, Walt. Oh, now you wait a minute. Who the devil are you calling a quiz program? I want to win an electric chair.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, Mary Lou's Ice Cream Parlor.

[Richard Diamond]

Is Jeff the newsboy there?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Why, yes. It's for you, Jeff. Thanks.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello, Jeff, this is Mr. Diamond. I want you to do me a favor.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Sure. Anything for you.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay. Now, you know the saloon next to the ice cream parlor?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah.

[Richard Diamond]

You know the bartender?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah. Old guy. Buys a paper from me every night.

[Richard Diamond]

All right. Now, stay in the parlor and keep an eye on the front of the saloon. If the bartender comes out, find out where he goes. But for Pete's sake, be careful.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Sure, Mr. Diamond. I'll do what you say. Is something up?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, could be. If anything happens before I get there, call Lieutenant Levinson. I'll tell you all about it when I see you.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You're getting to be a pretty important fellow, Jeff. Phone calls now. Oh, that was Mr. Diamond. He wants me to stay here and keep an eye on the front of the saloon. Okay? Oh, sure, of course. Why does he want you to do that? Oh, it's something big, I think. Something to do with the bartender that works there. The bartender? Yeah. I'll just sit up in front here and keep an eye out. Look, Jeff, watch this door for me, will you? I've got to go in back and pack some ice cream to be sent out. Sure. Melo. Melo. Guess I better get it myself. Mary Lou's Ice Cream Parlor.

[Richard Diamond]

Can I talk with Mary Lou?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

She went in back. I'll get her for you. Just a minute.

[Richard Diamond]

Thank you.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I tell you, it's getting too risky. That Diamond's a private detective.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. He came in the bar and started to rough up Walker.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, that stupid Walker should have been more careful about passing out that money. What if diamond catches him and makes him talk?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

He caught up, but he didn't make Walker talk.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What do you mean?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I took care of Walker. I got a Good shot at him from the alley.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, maybe it's better like that. But look, if we don't. Hello? Mary Lou wasn't here. Get off the line.

[Richard Diamond]

What? What?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah. Get off. Operator, get me the 5th Precinct Police Station. It's a matter of life and death. I'll connect you. Oh, golly. Please hurry. I'm ringing.

[Richard Diamond]

F Precinct.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Is Mr. Richard diamond around there? He said to call Lieutenant Levinson.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, diamond isn't here. Neither is the lieutenant.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You know where I can reach them?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah, but that's about set all. Who's this?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I'm a friend of Mr. Diamond's. I'm in an ice cream parlor.

[Richard Diamond]

Ice cream parlor? Look, son.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No, no. I just heard someone say that they'd killed a man named Walker. And I think I know who's behind the counterfeit ring.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What's the address?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

It's.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello? Hello, kid.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What's wrong?

[Richard Diamond]

Hello?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Good. Lucky we came out this way.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I wonder how he hurt us.

[Richard Diamond]

He walked back and opened the door.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What are we gonna do with him?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Tie him up and gag him. There's a closet in the back and we can put him in there until he's safe to take him out.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

But he's making too much trouble the way he is.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Okay, I can get him back there. You better go on over to the bar in case someone shows up. All right.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Later tonight, I'll take the kid down to the river and teach him how hard it is to swim when he's dead. Now, you listen here, young fella.

[Narrator]

If you're back here for trouble.

[Richard Diamond]

Dad, I'm back for a lot of trouble. And I think you're going to help me out.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You'd better leave, Sonny, or I'll call the law.

[Richard Diamond]

Why don't you?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What do you want?

[Richard Diamond]

I want to know how long you've been back on the counterfeit racket.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Now, look, Sonny, I've been going straight for a long time.

[Richard Diamond]

You know something, Dad? I don't think so. Let's go down to the station and talk about it.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You got a warrant, Shammas?

[Richard Diamond]

I got a nasty disposition. You want me to show you? No. You want a gun, dad? Why?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What difference does it make?

[Richard Diamond]

I'm gonna look at it. A guy named Walker got dead from a gun. Now let's see it, Sonny. What is it?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I can't show it to you.

[Richard Diamond]

Why not?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Because I got it under the bar, pointed right at your belly. If I drag it out, it might scare the customers.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, it's like that, huh?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

It sure is. You see that door there? In the back.

[Richard Diamond]

I know, that's a good boy.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You just keep walking along your side of the bar and don't try anything. I just had my floor scrubbed. It'd be a shame to spill you all over.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay, open the door. Go on out.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Up the alley.

[Richard Diamond]

You shoot Walker?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I might.

[Richard Diamond]

Now where you got your printing presses?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Georgia's full of questions, aren't you, sonny? Okay, Stumpy.

[Richard Diamond]

Behind the ice cream parlor, huh? Well, well, well. Mary, make mine hot fudge with a nuts.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Mary, for just a minute. Say, what's the idea? I thought you would.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, good afternoon. I'm selling a new brand of Indian nuts. Great for banana splits.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What's the Shammas doing here?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

He's too smart. I gotta cut off his education.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Are you crazy? This guy's got friends. That kid was calling the 5th Precinct. Remember?

[Richard Diamond]

Kid?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah, you're your little news hound.

[Richard Diamond]

What did you do with him?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

He's all right until tonight. We got him locked up.

[Richard Diamond]

Dad, I think I'll make you eat that.38.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I don't think so. No difference if I kill you right here.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Hold it, dad, we can't have a gun going off back here. Even if we could hide the Shammys, they'd find the presses.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, so that's it. Those ice cream machines the COVID up. Ain't he smart? What do you do, ship the stuff out in ice cream cartons?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What's with you? Want a tier of inspection?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Come on now, take it easy. He won't be smart for long.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, how are you going to do it?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

We're gonna take a walk, aren't we Shammas?

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, I have the most horrible m step. I'll never make it without skates or something. You'll make it.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Come on, the car's around.

[Richard Diamond]

Frank. Hi. Hey, what's happening to the street?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

A dad?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah, it's only some drunk come out of the bar the wrong way. Funny, I didn't see him in here.

[Richard Diamond]

This is very confusing. If this is 53rd street, somebody's stolen some buildings.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, hey.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Take it easy, Shammas. I'm putting the gun in my pocket, but it's still right in line with your belt.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I'm going back inside.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

No, no, no. Play it straight. Just like we were talking.

[Richard Diamond]

Wow, you're pretty unsociable to say the least. What's the matter? Can't you even say hello? I'm sure, sure you're. You're in an alley.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

The entrance is right out there.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh yeah? Would you mind showing me? I seem to be a little Confused? Now, look, it's right up there.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Just keep going.

[Richard Diamond]

Hey, where'd you go? Oh, no. Oh, there you are. Lieutenant. Lieutenant.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Hit the cop.

[Richard Diamond]

The guard.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Walk.

[Richard Diamond]

Get the girl. Come on, dad. Give me that gun.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Let go of me. Let me.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You got him, Rick.

[Richard Diamond]

He won't play. No, he will. Just take it easy, ladies. Hey, what's going on?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Otis.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Go out and start walking around the block, huh? You hear me? Go on.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Okay, but I don't get it.

[Richard Diamond]

What do you want me to walk.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Around the block for?

[Richard Diamond]

I want you to get used to it because that's what you're going to be doing for the rest of your time on the force in Flatbush.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Flatbush? Yes.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Gee, Mr. Diamond, thanks for the dinner invitation, but where are we going?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, I'm going to introduce you to Miguel. She's a redhead, Jeff, so no cracks about my office research.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, sure, but don't you think you should have called her first? How do you know she's got enough dinner?

[Richard Diamond]

Jeff, this girl's got more stakes in her deep freezer than a bullfight arena season a year. Here we are.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yes.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, good evening, Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Good evening, Francis. This is Jeff, Francis. He's going to have dinner with us.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Hi.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, hi.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Come right in. Ms. Asho's in the study, Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Thank you, Francis.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Yes?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You know the various items that you've left with me for safekeeping.

[Richard Diamond]

Look, Francis, I promise I'll get them out of hockey as soon as I get a paying client.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, no, no, it's not that, sir. I didn't really to hold them a security in the first place, but as long as you insisted in such a fine collection. I'd like to show them to. Well, to my girl, sir.

[Richard Diamond]

Why, sure. Frances. I didn't know you had a girl.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

She's the upstairs maid in the apartment below us. I'm afraid I told her a wee fib to get acquainted, as it were. She thinks I'm an undercover agent and I'm afraid I'm going to have to prove it.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, my gun and the badge should do the trick. And if it doesn't work, just get under a cover.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, my God. That was the real. Yes, sir. Good evening, sir.

[Richard Diamond]

Come on, Jeff. We're not appreciated.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Rick. Oh, hello.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello, Helen. This is Jeff, the boy who's helping me send dad Foster and company back to prison. Jeff, this is Helen Asher.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yes, sir. Well, thank you, Jeff.

[Richard Diamond]

They had him locked up in the closet for a couple of hours and he looked kind of Hungry when he got him out. How about it, honey? You think you can grind up another cow?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, well, there's plenty for Jeff and me, but you've got to make up for three things.

[Richard Diamond]

Three things?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yes. First of all, you haven't called me in two days. Second, you're half hour late for dinner. And third. Well, I'll tell you later. I'll leave the room if you want me to. No, no, Jeff, you stay right here. You're going to literally see a man sing for his supper.

[Richard Diamond]

Helen.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

All right. Come on, Jeff. We'll go dig into those nice, fat, juicy steaks.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, boy, steaks. Wait a minute, wait a minute. My taste buds just started whipping each other. My vibrato may sound like a machine gun, but I'll do it.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I thought you were kidding. Is he really gonna sing, Ms. Asher?

[Richard Diamond]

No, I'm not going to sing, Ms. Asher. I'm gonna do a little song I used to sing with hip boots and a gondola. You're breaking my heart. Cause you're leaving. You've fallen for somebody new. It isn't too easy believing you'd leave. After all we've been through. It's breaking my heart to remember the dreams we depended upon. You're leaving a slow dying ember. I'll miss you, my love. When you're gone. I wish you joy though teardrops burn. But if someday you should want to return. Please hurry back and we'll make a new start. Till then, you're breaking my heart.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Mr. Diamond, did you really sing a gondola with hip boots on?

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah, that's right, Jeff.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, I know you don't need the hip boots anymore. Will you loan them to me?

[Richard Diamond]

What for?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I want to wait out of here. Well, get him for that. You get two desserts.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You have just heard Richard diamond, private.

[Narrator]

Detective, starring Dick Powell. Helen was played by Virginia Gregg, Lieutenant Levinson by Ed Begley. Also in our cast were Willms Herbert, Tommy Bernard, Sammy Hill, Lou Krugman and Polly Bear. Music was under the direction of Frank Worth. Richard diamond is written by Blake Edwards and directed by Richard Sanville. Dick Powell soon will be seen in the screen version of the best selling novel, Mrs. Mike. Now this is Eddie King inviting you to be with us again at the same time next week when we will again bring you Dick Powell as Richard Diamond, Private Detective. Saturday night brings you some of the week's best radio entertainment when you tune for the stars on NBC. Stay tuned to NBC every Saturday evening for a great lineup of programs including Hollywood Star Theater Ralph Edwards, Truth or consequences, your hit parade, A Day in the life of Dennis Day, the Judy Canova show, and Grand Ole Opry. All the best on NBC. Stay tuned now for Victor Mature and Hollywood Star Theater on NBC.

[Richard Diamond]

Let's map out this week's amazing destinations and travel tips.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Honestly, Will, I didn't plan any trips, but I did switch to T Mobile with their new Family Freedom offer.

[Richard Diamond]

That's not the itinerary we're following.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, I'm departing from AT&T and embarking on a new journey with T Mobile. They paid off my family's four phones. Up to $3200. Gave us four new phones on the house.

[Richard Diamond]

Bon voyage.

[T-Mobile Announcer]

Introducing Family Freedom. Our lowest cost will switch our biggest family savings all on America's largest 5G network. Visit your local T Mobile location or learn more@t mobile.com familyfreedom. Up to $800 per line via virtual prepaid card. Typically takes 15 days. Free phones via 24 monthly bill credits with finance agreement, eg, Apple iPhone 16, 128 gigabyte, $829.99 eligible trade in, eg iPhone 11 Pro for well qualified credits. End and balance due if you pay off early or cancel contact T Mobile.

[Narrator]

Here's Dick Powell as Richard diamond, private detective.

[Richard Diamond]

Hello, there, this is Diamond. You know, I like to say that, hello there, this is Diamond. I don't know why. Maybe it's just because I say it all the time. Hello there, this is Diamond. You know, I think it sounds kind of, well, pretty bad. Of course, I'd rather say, hello there, this is. I've got a sponsor, Diamond. But that's silly, too, because if I had a sponsor, I wouldn't have time to say, hello there, this is Diamond. I'd be overshining his shoes confused. Well, so am I. Want to get really mixed up. Let me tell you what happened last week. This is real silly. So silly, it wound up with murder. I was sitting in my office thinking about June Allison, when the phone rang. Diamond Detective Agency. No other corpse can make that statement. Oh, Rick, don't believe it. Just listen to what one of our satisfied customers has to say about Diamond. I've been buried now 30 years, Rick. Hello?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Helen, you idiot. What are you doing?

[Richard Diamond]

I know this will throw you nothing.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No washing today.

[Richard Diamond]

Finished an hour ago. Oh, by the way, I got a beef.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

A beef?

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Those socks you knitted for me shrunk so much. I need four more pair.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, if they shrunk, what do you want with four more pairs?

[Richard Diamond]

Gonna start A new fad. Gonna wear em on my toes. You know, toe socks.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, if I knit you four pair, that'll only give you ten altogether.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, by George, you really pulled off a speedy, didn't you?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, howdy. Wasn't half as bad as some of those ghastlies you come up with.

[Richard Diamond]

All right, smarty. Now, what's on your rural mind?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Want you to do me a favor.

[Richard Diamond]

Like for instance?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No. For instance, I told you a friend of mine would come up and see you, and I want you to do what you can for him.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Hold it a minute, honey. Yeah.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Mr. Diamond, I was told to look you up. I am Renee.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Rick. What is it, Helen? Yeah, what's the matter?

[Richard Diamond]

Something just tiptoed into my office. I got a hunch you know about it.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, maybe that's Renee.

[Richard Diamond]

That's what it says.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

If you are, Mr. Diamond, I wish you'd please pay a little attention to me. Or aren't you interested in a potential client?

[Richard Diamond]

Hold it a second, honey. Sure. I'm always interested in a potential client. What did you do, lose your wedges?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I beg your pardon?

[Richard Diamond]

Forget it. I've got Ms. Asher on the phone now. She just told me you were coming up.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, well, please say hello to Ms. Asher. She's such a darling.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah, honey, Renee says to say hello. Says you're a darling.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, well, say hello to Renee. He makes my hats for me.

[Richard Diamond]

I'll get the story from him. Call you later. Now, Mr. Renee, the full name is Benet.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Renee Binet. How do you do?

[Richard Diamond]

How are you, Mr. Binet?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Mr. Diamond, I have a problem and Ms. Asher seemed to think that you could help me with it.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, depends. Cigarette?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

No, thanks. I never use them. Depends on what? You don't even know my problem yet.

[Richard Diamond]

Look, I don't care if you swipe John Frederick's toupee. For a hundred dollars a day in expenses, I'll grow a mattress on his skull.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Mr. Diamond, I can see that you don't know much about hats.

[Richard Diamond]

You are so wrong.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Am I? Well, it may interest you to know that John Fredericks are two people. Mr. John and Mr. Fredericks.

[Richard Diamond]

Look, Mr. Binet, I don't care if they're patrol number three of the Brownies. Can you afford 100 a day in expenses?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Mr. Diamond, I am the new sensation in hats.

[Richard Diamond]

You must look lovely. Okay, Mr. Binet. I take it you can afford me. Now, what's your problem?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I want you to prevent the theft of my three latest creations.

[Richard Diamond]

Hats.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Creations, Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay, creations. Why do you want to protect them? Why?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Because someone is going to steal them before my false showing.

[Richard Diamond]

How do you know that?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Because on similar occasions the same thing has happened twice to be exact. The designs were stolen and two weeks later that low life George Mersham had his showing. And my hats were the high point of his show.

[Richard Diamond]

What did you do?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What could I do? I couldn't prove it. If I attempted to expose him, he would have said that I was lying. Everybody knows how much we hate each other. I'd have been a laughingstock.

[Richard Diamond]

Do you think he had the hat stolen?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I'm sure of it. And I'm also sure that someone in my salon is responsible for the actual theft.

[Richard Diamond]

You know, definitely no. No.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

But I suspect my partner, Gerald Winters. He's always been jealous of my ability. Mr. Diamond, couldn't you open a window or something? It's frightfully hot.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, it's. It's the air conditioning. I keep a bag of red lipped jumbos up in the vent. Sometimes they get stuck.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Red lipped jumbos?

[Richard Diamond]

Pistachio nuts. You like hats? I get hung up on pistachio nuts.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Perhaps you should see a psychiatrist.

[Richard Diamond]

I did.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What happened?

[Richard Diamond]

I sent him 5 pound of pistachios just yesterday.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, well, here's my card. I'll see you at my salon, Mr. Diamond, in about an hour. Oh, oh, and something else. I don't want my partner or the help to know that you are a private detective.

[Richard Diamond]

What am I supposed to do? Buy a hat?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, I'll tell them that you're a designer from Hollywood. That way whatever you say will be all right. See you in an hour.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You say this Richard of Hollywood is coming here to look at our new line?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

That's correct, Lillian.

[Richard Diamond]

Never heard of him.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, that's not so surprising, Gerald. There are a lot of people I'm sure you've never heard of. Especially the more famous ones.

[Richard Diamond]

I don't like that.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, don't you? Well, I'm overjoyed that you're sure of one thing at least.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Now don't you two start fighting again. I've never heard of this Richard of Hollywood either.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, he's a. He's a new man. Works for the studios. He's made quite a sensation the last year or so.

[Richard Diamond]

I'm sick and tired of temperamental artists. I'm going back to my office.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Why don't you do that, Gerald? Keep the books in the black, dear Potter, while I work to pay for your salary.

[Richard Diamond]

You know, Rennie, someday I'm going to Strangle you with one of your own hats.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Why don't you buy yourself a barbell instead? Then the next time you get into a bathing suit, there'll be no doubt that you have muscles.

[Richard Diamond]

Office boy.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

How can you two continue like this?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

It's frightful. Lillian, my love, I would rather join forces with a cobra than to keep on with Gerald. But he has an iron bound contract that assures him of at least 50,000 a year. I'm helpless. Yes, come in. Oh, mister. I mean, Richard. Come in, come in.

[Richard Diamond]

Thanks. Thanks. You better go out and pour some water on your partner. I just ran into him.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Gerald. What do you mean?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, I was looking for you and he came up and introduced himself.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You told him your name?

[Richard Diamond]

Told him I was a hat designer from Hollywood. So he pointed out your office and said something about my lily white hands.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

And what happened?

[Richard Diamond]

I didn't like the remark, so I shoved one of them down his throat.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, wonderful.

[Richard Diamond]

This I'll have to see. I put a feather in his mouth.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

He can't miss him, Rene, don't you think?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, I'm sorry. Stupid of me. Lillian, this is Richard of Hollywood.

[Richard Diamond]

What? Oh. Oh, yeah.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Is something wrong?

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, no, no, no. How do you do?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

This is Lillian Richmond, my junior designer and chief model. Now you two think of something clever to talk about. I want to see Gerald, bloody nose feather and all.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Cigarettes. You look nervous.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Thanks.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

So Gerald was the victim of a collision?

[Richard Diamond]

Yes.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Do your friends call you Richard?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, it depends on how friendly they get. And sometimes they come up with some real hair curlers. What do your friends call you?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I prefer Lillian, but sometimes they call me Lil.

[Richard Diamond]

Lil sounds more interesting.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

That's when they call me Lil. When things get interesting. You don't act much like a hat designer, Richard. More like you should be playing football.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, well, I started by designing helmets for Notre Dame.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I understand you work for the movies. You with any particular studio? Hmm?

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, no, no, no. I'm with an independent company, Real Square Productions. We make training films.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Training films?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

It was simply wonderful. I had to pour a glass of water on him. Several customers were so frightened they. But it was worth it. And how are you two getting along?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Richard was just talking about football. He was explaining the merits of a short pass.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, well, if you don't mind, Lillian, Mr. Richard and I have some business to talk over.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Not at all. Get him to tell you how he started by making helmets. Maybe you'll get some new ideas. Rene.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Helmets? Oh my goodness.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

See you later, Richard.

[Richard Diamond]

I'll wear my muzzle.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Isn't she lovely? She has about as much conscience as a tiger in a chicken coop.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay, now. Now what about our business?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, of course. Now, here's a retainer. I trust that 500 is enough to start on.

[Richard Diamond]

My landlord will think so. What do I do?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, I've told everyone that you're going to be with us until the fall showing. You want to see how I work? Perhaps take some designs back to Hollywood with you. Now all you really have to do is to get to know the people that work for me. Now be here from 9 in the morning to 6 at night and keep those designs from being stolen.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, by the way, where are the designs?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

In my safe here. Tomorrow they go to the designing rooms and that's when the situation becomes acute. We'll have nothing to worry about until tomorrow. So I'll see you tomorrow in the morning at 9, Mr. Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay. Oh, in case you need me, here's my card. I'll write my home number on it. For some reason when I get a client, they always run into silly little things like murder or something. You just might need me. See you in the morning. I left Renee and headed for my apartment. I had suddenly found myself in the horrible position of a man with a steady job. Nine in the morning until six in the evening. Now I'm a guy who can get along without too much sleep, especially when the situation calls for it. Like the little blonde dancer that works over on 52nd Street. There was a situation, but this time I figured a good night's rest wouldn't do me any harm. So when I got home I fixed a bite to eat, took a hot shower and climbed into my little old sack. Okay, okay. Diamond. Oh, hello, honey. Now you stop that. Wake up. Hmm. Dog. Oh, no. No. Who is it? It's Lieutenant Levinson. Well, bully for you. What time is it? It's 4:30 in the morning. Goodbye, Walt. Now you wait a minute. I'm just trying to make things easy on you. And what was that hello, honey. For? I was dreaming. What do you mean make things easy for me at 4:30 in the morning? Nothing's easy. I wanted to let you get here under your own steam. I know what a shock it would be if I sent Otis down there to drag you out of bed. Oh yeah, horrible. I know. They'd ate the fire. The Dracula was loose again. Hey, what do you want me there for? Well, I know you won't be surprised, but there's been a Ritteral killing. Well, so what? So you're mixed up in it. Now get down here. Now wait a minute, wait a minute. Who's dead? A guy named Benet. Auto accident. Renee Benet. Yeah, I guess that's the way you pronounce it. You see, Otis, you mallet head, you were wrong. It's pronounced Benet, not Benny. That idiot was calling him Rennie. Benny Walton. How did you know I was working for Binet? Your card was found in his pocket. I'm at 125th street, so come on up as fast as you can. As soon as I get my football helmet off. Football helmet? You sleep in a football helmet? Well, I do, don't you? Bye. I left the apartment and took off the address Walt had given me. It was way uptown on Riverside Drive. It was cold and the fog had begun to drift in. I found Walt over near the prowl car and he briefed me. Rene Benet had been killed in an automobile accident. His car had crashed over a hundred foot viaduct. He went through the guardrail up there. Rick.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh.

[Richard Diamond]

Wonder what he was doing way up here. Certainly wasn't headed home. Maybe he was going to see someone. Maybe. Better check and see if he knew anyone out this way. Now you wait a minute. You think something's wrong? Could be. Huh. He had a partner who might want him out of the way. Oh, it's a mess, isn't it? Yeah, pretty badly burned before the fire boys got here. Wait a minute. Otis is over there with him. Otis? Probably warming his feet. He couldn't warm those big things in an atom bomb.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Otis.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah, Lieutenant. Yeah, Lieutenant. Yeah, Lieutenant, did you find anything?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yeah, there's been a fire.

[Richard Diamond]

Oh, get over here, Walt. What about that card you found in his pocket? Why didn't it get burned? It was in one of his suits over at his apartment. I put in a call, checked his license plate, found out who he was, where he lived and sent a couple of boys over. They came up with your card. You know how they all love you. Anything else in the apartment? Nothing yet. We'll get a report.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Here I am, Lieutenant.

[Richard Diamond]

He's getting smart. Oh, hello Shamas. Otis, get the car started. We'll go back to the station and wait for a report about this accident. Yeah, Lieutenant. No, no, that's right. You touch that Sarn and I'll throw you out of the car. Uh huh.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Guy can't have any fun anymore.

[Richard Diamond]

Walt, when are you gonna get that report? At 6:30 in the morning. I know it's 6:30. I always yawn like this when it's 6:30. Maybe this is it.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah, I Got that report, Lieutenant.

[Richard Diamond]

Take the marbles out of your mouth. What did you say?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, yeah, sorry. I'm a little sleepy.

[Richard Diamond]

Maybe you'd like me to sing your lullaby.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

That'd be silly.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, then make sense.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I got that report.

[Richard Diamond]

Benny Bennet. Okay, he died from the fire.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Autopsy showed he had a slight concussion, but not serious enough to kill him.

[Richard Diamond]

What about the car?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

It wasn't tampered with. There was something funny, though. A steering wheel was smeared like someone had been wearing a Gloves. No prints.

[Richard Diamond]

Benny didn't have on any gloves. How'd the fire start?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Cigarette in the upholstery.

[Richard Diamond]

Cigarette in the upholstery. Okay, Otis, I'll call you if I need you. Go on back to sleep. Did you hear? Yeah. Binet was murdered. What makes you so sure, Walt? Otis said he had a slight concussion, but not enough to kill him, right? Okay. You gonna tell me that he was unconscious the whole time it took that fire to start? Ordinarily, a cigarette smolders a long time. Then why didn't he get out of the car? Because he didn't have time to wake up. Someone helped that fire along. Got it burning in a few minutes and then pushed the car over the viaduct. That isn't enough. Okay, how's this then? Benet didn't smoke. Now that I'll buy. But how do you know? He told me. I offered him a cigarette in my office this morning. Well, who do you think did it? Well, I know he had two enemies. His partner, Gerald Winters, and another hat designer, a George Marchand. I'll have them picked up. No, no, no. Let him alone for a while, huh? Have some breakfast first and then go down to Rene's Salon when it opens. Quite a store.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Yes. Oh. Oh, good morning. How's Richard from Hollywood?

[Richard Diamond]

From Hunger. Richard from Hollywood. All right.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, I wish Otis was here.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

He'd love this.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, whose side are you on? Walt, this is Lil Lillian Richmond. Walt, Lillian, this is Lieutenant Levinson. Lieutenant, Homicide.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, well, I hope he's just in to buy a hat for his wife.

[Richard Diamond]

I'm not married, Ms. Richmond.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, to buy a hat.

[Richard Diamond]

Lillian, I just called Renee's apartment. Oh, what do you want, Walt? This is Gerald Winters. Who split his lip. He ran into a fist. Where were you between three and four o'clock this morning, Mr. Winters? What do you want to know for?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Gerald, this is a lieutenant from Homicide. I think maybe something's happened.

[Richard Diamond]

What could have happened? I was in bed from 11 o' clock till 8. Besides, what's a policeman doing with the great Richard from Hollywood. Did someone see one of his creations and strangled to death. Where were you? Around for this morning, Lillian.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Also in bed. But I can't prove it.

[Richard Diamond]

Why? Bernays been killed.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

What?

[Richard Diamond]

You don't seem too upset, Mr. Winters. No. Well, you're right. As a matter of fact, I'm not.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

How did it happen?

[Richard Diamond]

The car went over the viaduct. Burned to death.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Then why ask us where we were? It was an accident, wasn't it?

[Richard Diamond]

No, it was not an accident. Mr. Winters. What happens to you now? You take over the firm? Yes, it all goes to me. I think you'd better come down to the station, answer a few questions. Oh, no, you don't. This is absurd. I hated Rene, but I'd never kill him. Rick, do me a favor and go over to this George Marchand. Talk to him until I can send Otis down to pick him up. You. You aren't a hat designer, are you? Bingo. You win. Another split lip. No, not. Not. Lay off him, rick. Come on, Mr. Winters, let's go. I knew he wasn't. I just knew that man couldn't be famous in Hollywood or anywhere else.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well.

[Richard Diamond]

Mm.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Police.

[Richard Diamond]

Private detective. The name's Diamond.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Mm. Did you ever play football?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Stop back after you see Marchon. I'd like to find out more about the game.

[Richard Diamond]

Strong line and a good backfield. You've played it. Good morning.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Good morning.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Good morning. What can I do for you?

[Richard Diamond]

George Marchand?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yes?

[Richard Diamond]

I'm from the police, Mr. Marchand.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

The police?

[Richard Diamond]

Your competitor, Rene Benet, was killed last night. What? He was burned to death in his car.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, but this is horrible. Horrible. But what has Rene's death to do with me?

[Richard Diamond]

Well, we think he was murdered and we're trying to find a good motive, Mr. Diamond.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

It's true that Rene and I were enemies.

[Richard Diamond]

Everyone knew it.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

But to think that I would take his life is utterly absurd.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Where were you about 4 this morning, Mr. Mahjong?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, I. I was in bed, asleep.

[Richard Diamond]

Everybody sure had a dull evening. How well do you know Gerald Winters? Rene's partner?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Just slightly.

[Richard Diamond]

How about Lillian Richmond?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

By reputation. Only.

[Richard Diamond]

One more question. When's your fall showing, Mr. Marshall?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

In two days.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, be sure to be around for it. The police get very unhappy if a murder suspect catches the first plane for the border.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Murder suspect.

[Richard Diamond]

See you later, Mr. Marshall. I left March Jean counting his pulse and wondering just how much I did know. And if he could have seen what was going on in my little old mind he might have grown a few white hairs. I grabbed A cab and headed for the 5th Precinct Police Station. And Walt Levinson? Needless to say, he was not happy. Oh, now, you wait a minute, Diamond. I'm satisfied with Gerald Winters. He's the only one who had a motive. The only one who had a motive that you can see. Too many things point to someone else. Give me a for instance. Oh, you always want a for instance. Well, hang it. You're trying to convince me that Winters isn't a killer, aren't you? Yes, I am. All. And I want a for instance. I want to know your reason. Well, Winters and Renee hated each other. Even as partners, they really wanted each other out of the way. Are you crazy? You just gave me the best reason for hanging onto Winters. Walt, when Renee was killed, he was 10 miles away from his apartment going in the other direction. So what did you find out? If he knew anyone who might live out that way. Even if he didn't know anyone out that way, I still say so what? The killer went for a drive with him, got out there, hit him over the head, poured gasoline on the seat and dropped a cigarette. Pushed him off the viaduct. And Winters smokes. I know. I sent a whole carton down to a cell to make sure you're right about how the killer did it. But do you think Rene would have taken a drive like that with a man he hated? Knowing how much a man hated him? Huh? And another thing. It was pretty warm yesterday last night, wasn't it? It certainly was. Lousy weather. Okay. The killer wore gloves. Isn't that a little strange on a warm night? So he slipped on some gloves, didn't want to leave any fingerprints. No, no, no. The killer was driving. The report said there were absolutely no fingerprints on the steering wheel. If Renee was in the driver's seat, there would have been a few of his. Anyway, we couldn't tell whether he was in the driver's seat. He could have been thrown aside when the car crashed. But I don't get this glove angle. You want to catch a killer. What kind of a remark is that? Well, come on. Where are we going? Down to Rene's shop. We can get in through a window. I notice in the alley there are some designs in his safe. And Walt, the killer has to get them out tonight.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

And there you are, Lieutenant. It's Jimmy.

[Richard Diamond]

Rick. I don't like this. Busting into a place without a warrant. Oh, go on, climb in. And watch out for the burglar alarm. All right. Come on, Otis.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Okay. Yeah, I'll give you a hand, Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, that Ought to be easy for you, Otis. Yeah, why? Well, you could hold on with the other four and still have one left over. Grab me.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Oh, is that so?

[Richard Diamond]

You two lay off. Come on, Rick, show me where to go. Right over here in Renee's office. What makes you think the killer hasn't already stolen the plans? I wouldn't have done it the night of the murder. That would have shown a motive. Wouldn't have done it today. Too many people in the shop. Go on in.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Gee, Spooky. I can't see a thing.

[Richard Diamond]

Walt, Watch this.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Boo.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

For Pete's sake, Shaw, lay off Otis Diamond.

[Richard Diamond]

Where do we hide? Just sit down anywhere and be quiet. The first person through that door is our killer. That clock is going to drive me crazy.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

You want me to shut it off?

[Richard Diamond]

How do you shut off a clock?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Stupid. Busted.

[Richard Diamond]

Rick. Yeah?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

I still don't understand why that glove angle is so important.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, as a single item it's not so important. But along with the rest, it was the first thing that gave me an idea of the killer.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah, I think I got it.

[Richard Diamond]

I did. Oh.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Rick, it's three o'.

[Richard Diamond]

Clock. I don't think your killer's going to show.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yeah, I'm getting stiff.

[Richard Diamond]

Hold it, Walt. I think we have a customer.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Otis, get up and stand next to that light switch. Flip it on when I tell you.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah, right. Okay, Otis. Oh, hello, Lillian.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You startled me. What's this all about? What are you doing here?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Waiting for you.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

For me? I don't understand. I was just coming over to pick up some of my sketches. I forgot them this afternoon.

[Richard Diamond]

So you waited until three in the morning?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I had a date.

[Richard Diamond]

Yeah. Otis, go out and drag in her date.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Now you wait just a minute. I don't know what this is all about. Mr. Diamond, would you mind telling me what this is all about?

[Richard Diamond]

Sure, lover. Point by point, it goes something like this. Renee Binet was killed by someone he knew and trusted. He never would have gone for that riot otherwise. Benet didn't smoke, so the killer was an amateur and started the fire with a cigarette. The killer wore gloves and it was too hot that night for a man to wear them without looking suspicious.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Are you saying that you think.

[Richard Diamond]

Did you kill Bennet? Sure you did.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Come on, you get in there. Take your dirty hands off of me. Here he is, Lieutenant. This is the guy in the car. What is this all about?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

You better ask Mr. Diamond. Although I don't think he'll make much sense. He just accused me of killing Rene. What?

[Richard Diamond]

Good morning, Mr. Mahjong. I thought you didn't know Lillian.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, prior to this evening. I did not. I. I called her because I. I wanted to talk to her about Rene's day.

[Richard Diamond]

Ah, you're lying. Today at your shop, you call me Mr. Diamond. How did you know my name?

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Well, you told it to me.

[Richard Diamond]

No, no, no, no. You're fibbing again. I just said I was from the police. Only one person who knew both of us could have called you. And she also knew I was on the way over to your shop, didn't you, Lil?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

The name is Ms. Richmond. Now prove that I killed Renee. You've got no motive.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, the designs are enough to start with. You probably suspected I wasn't a hat designer. And you knew you had to work fast if you were going to get those designs to Marchand here before this fall showing.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

That's not true. Lillian never gave me any designs from Rene.

[Richard Diamond]

You know, of course, Mr. Marchand, that if we stick your girlfriend with a murder wrap, you're an accessory before and after the fact.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

What?

[Richard Diamond]

Sure, maybe you'll. Maybe you'll get to sit in a nice electric glove seat and hold hands.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

But I had nothing to do with the murder.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, you knew about it and you knew who did it. That's enough to put you away for 20 years. Being mixed up in the actual motive might get you lied.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No, no, no, no.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

She was the one that did it. She knew Winters would be blamed for it.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

George.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Yes, she stole the designs for me because she wanted to ruin Bene and take over his. Hello. But I did not know she was going to kill him.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Why, you dirty little man. You did know it. You did know it. You helped me plan it. If I got the best sketches for you, I'll tell you right out.

[Lieutenant Levinson]

Get her away from me. Come on, lady, let's go.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay, haul them both out of the car. Rick. I don't know how. Rick. Oh, no. Rick. Oh, why does he always disappear like that?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Rick, what's that you're playing?

[Richard Diamond]

It's a new thing. Kind of pretty don't cry joke.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, sing it.

[Richard Diamond]

All right, but. But you know that gripey neighbor in the other apartment building?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Oh, don't pay any attention to him. You don't hear any of the other tenants yelling for you to shut up.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, maybe they're not as forceful as the Grouch. You see, honey, I got a couple of letters. Letters from the people in that building. Most of them like the singing, but a couple feel the same way the Grouch does.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Well, there's Only one way to find out what all the people in the building think.

[Richard Diamond]

How's that?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Open the window and sing so they can all hear you.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay, I'll buy it. You open the window. Don't you think maybe this is silly?

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Rick, I like you to sing when you come over here, but I don't want you to do it if no one else does. Now go ahead.

[Richard Diamond]

Okay. Don't cry, Jo. Let her go. Let her go. Let her go. Don't cry, Jo.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

Jo.

[Richard Diamond]

Let her go. Let her go. Let her go. You've got to realize this is the windup. You'll feel much better once you make your mind up. Don't cry, Jo. Let her go. Let her go. Let her go.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

No reaction yet. Maybe they all took poison.

[Richard Diamond]

Well, give them time. We'll find out soon enough.

[Jeff (Newsboy)]

I guess so.

[Richard Diamond]

Come on, let's go to the kitchen. In case the ice box you have.

[Narrator]

Just heard Richard Diamond, Private Detective starring Dick Powell. Helen was played by Virginia Gregg, Lieutenant Levinson by Ed Begley. Also in our cast were Wills, Herbert I. Aberback, Kay Brinker, Clark Gordon and Jay Novello. Music was under the direction of Frank Worth. Richard diamond is written by Blake Edwards and directed by Richard Sanville. Dick Powell soon will be seen in the screen version of the best selling novel, Mrs. Mike. Now this is Eddie King inviting you to be with us again at the same time next week when we will again bring you Dick Powell as Richard Diamond, Private Detective. Saturday night brings you some of the week's best radio entertainment when you tune for the stars on NBC. Stay tuned to NBC every Saturday evening for a great lineup of programs including Hollywood Star Theater, Ralph Edwards, Truth or Consequences, your hit parade, A Day in the Life of Dennis Day, the Judy Canova show and Grand Ole Opry. All the best on NBC. Stay tuned for Irene Dunn and Hollywood Star Theater on NBC.

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