THE MAN IN THE DOOR and THE HOUSE BY THE SEA JEFF REGAN CI

Summary

Podcast Summary: 1001 Radio Crime Solvers – "THE MAN IN THE DOOR and THE HOUSE BY THE SEA"

Host: Jon Hagadorn
Episode Release Date: July 30, 2025
Narrative Style: Classic Golden Age Radio Detective Stories
Featured Characters: Jeff Regan, Dorothy Nolan, Detective Lindetti, Velma Carmen

---

Introduction

In this episode of 1001 Radio Crime Solvers, host Jon Hagadorn presents two gripping detective tales featuring the tenacious private investigator, Jeff Regan. These stories, "The Man in the Door" and "The House by the Sea," showcase the classic hard-boiled detective flair that captivated audiences during radio's golden age. With sharp dialogue, intricate plots, and memorable characters, this episode immerses listeners in a world of mystery and intrigue.

---

Story 1: The Man in the Door

Overview: Jeff Regan, operating under the moniker "the Lion's Eye," delves into a convoluted murder case involving his acquaintance, Dorothy Nolan. The narrative intertwines deceit, manipulation, and a web of interconnected relationships, ultimately revealing a sinister plot behind a seemingly straightforward murder.

Key Plot Points:

1. Initial Contact ([00:37] - [01:59]):

   • Jeff Regan visits Dave Henderson, posing as a lawyer to extract information about Dorothy Nolan, who is entangled in a murder case.
   • Jeff learns that Dorothy is a material witness and possibly a suspect, with Detective Lindetti overseeing the case.

   Jeff Regan ([01:59]): "That's why she isn't feeling so good. He wants me to get her out?"

2. Mysterious Caller ([04:06] - [06:07]):

   • Dorothy Nolan contacts Jeff, urging him to investigate a suspicious check and uncover the truth behind her involvement in the murder.
   • Jeff discovers a bizarre scene involving a man with one leg and razor blades, leading him to an open-air penny arcade named Happy Land.

   Jeff Regan ([05:00]): "He went down like a busted sugar sack... 'Happy Land' was plastered above the picture."

3. Encounter with Velma Carmen ([08:22] - [10:20]):

   • At Happy Land, Jeff interacts with Velma Carmen, who reluctantly provides information about Dusty Rhodes, a colleague involved in criminal activities.
   • Velma hints at hidden motives and connections, deepening the mystery surrounding Dorothy and the murder.

   Velma Carmen ([09:16]): "I think you'll like it... It's in there."

4. Confrontation with Detective Lindetti ([11:06] - [12:16]):

   • Jeff attempts to gather more information from Detective Lindetti at the Seashore Hotel but faces resistance and hostility.
   • The detective's cryptic remarks and evasive behavior add layers to the investigation.

   Detective Lindetti ([12:10]): "Disallowable and punishable by fine and imprisonment."

5. Revelation and Resolution ([16:55] - [19:20]):

   • Jeff pieces together the puzzle, unveiling that Dave Henderson is actually Dudley Haynes, a man with a troubled past.
   • The final confrontation reveals Dorothy's complicity in the murder, leading to her sentencing and Jeff's disillusionment with her manipulative nature.

   Jeff Regan ([18:09]): "He held his breath as long as he could, but everybody has to breathe. He's buried up there with a lot of other guys that figured they could get away with murder."

Notable Quotes:

• Velma Carmen ([09:18], [09:16]): "Oh, tell me you're a real big spender and want to have your picture taken."
• Detective Lindetti ([11:18], [12:16]): "Private investigator means private eye, and it all means cop."

---

Story 2: The House by the Sea

Overview: In the second gripping tale, Jeff Regan tackles a complex case involving Prince Carew and his enigmatic associate, Velma Carmen. Set against the backdrop of Ocean Town, this narrative explores themes of blackmail, deceit, and the blurred lines between personal and professional lives.

Key Plot Points:

1. Introduction to the New Case ([19:20] - [23:08]):

   • Jeff is approached by Detective Lindetti to assist with a personal crisis involving Prince Carew, who is under threat from a vengeful actress, Grace Nichols.
   • Velma Carmen, Prince Carew's right-hand woman, is introduced as a key player in the unfolding drama.

   Detective Lindetti ([26:52]): "Because, sir, I want you to save my Life."

2. Meeting Velma Carmen ([26:25] - [32:10]):

   • Jeff navigates the complexities of Ocean Town's social scene, encountering Velma Carmen who reveals her connections to Prince Carew and hints at internal conflicts.
   • Tensions rise as Jeff uncovers the undercurrents of blackmail and manipulation surrounding the prince's affairs.

   Velma Carmen ([32:32]): "I like it this way."

3. Confrontations and Twists ([33:01] - [38:17]):

   • A series of confrontations with Detective Lindetti and encounters with mysterious characters like Tim Rogers add suspense.
   • Velma's dual role as both collaborator and potential antagonist complicates Jeff's investigation.

   Velma Carmen ([37:14]): "I meant, it's really very humane. They come. It's just like sitting down and never waking up."

4. Climactic Showdown ([43:12] - [48:03]):

   • The culmination of Jeff's investigation leads to a tense standoff at Grace Nichols' residence, where the true extent of betrayal and deceit is unveiled.
   • Jeff exposes Detective Lindetti's blackmail scheme, leading to a dramatic resolution where justice is served, albeit with personal costs.

   Jeff Regan ([48:03]): "You said her prints were on that gun. They'll find that out in the morning."

Notable Quotes:

• Velma Carmen ([37:42]): "I shot him. I walked up behind him and I put the gun close to his back and pulled the trigger."
• Detective Lindetti ([29:06]): "She's an actress. She was in on a deal at the studios."

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Conclusion

In "THE MAN IN THE DOOR and THE HOUSE BY THE SEA," Jeff Regan demonstrates his expertise as a private investigator, navigating through deceitful characters and uncovering hidden truths. The intricate storytelling, combined with sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, pays homage to the golden era of radio detective stories. Listeners are treated to a masterful blend of suspense, characterization, and classic noir elements that make this episode a standout entry in the 1001 Radio Crime Solvers series.

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Final Thoughts: This episode not only entertains but also captures the essence of vintage radio mysteries, making it a delightful experience for fans of the genre and newcomers alike. Jeff Regan's relentless pursuit of truth amidst layers of deception serves as a compelling narrative arc that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.

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Notable Performances:

• Jack Webb as Jeff Regan
• Wills Herbert as Anthony J. Lyon
• Betty Lou Gerson as Dorothy Nolan
• David Ellis as Tim Rogers
• Lorraine Tuttle as Velma Carmen
• William Conrad and Lou Krugman in supporting roles

---

Tune In Next Week: Join Jeff Regan for another thrilling adventure, "The House by the Sea," airing every Sunday at 5 pm ET on 1001 Radio Crime Solvers.

Transcript

[T-Mobile Advertiser]

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[Jeff Regan]

No stick. There we are. Come on in.

[Narrator]

It's unlocked.

[Jeff Regan]

Your name Dave Henderson? Yeah, who wants to know? My name's Regan. I'm a private investigator with the International Detective Bureau. Wrong steer Gum shoe. I don't need one. Look, I'm not looking for work. I'm looking for you. What'd you say it was? Regan. That's right. R, E, G A N. Regan. Regan. Learned that just an hour ago. Cute, huh? I met a friend of yours today. Dave Henderson. Never had a friend. He said she was a friend of yours, but I didn't say I was a friend of hers. Hey, who we talking about anyway? Dorothy Nolan.

[Dorothy Nolan]

How is Dorothy?

[Jeff Regan]

Not so good. Thought you were a detective. I am. You sound like a doctor. Look, you sound like a guy with a chip on his shoulder. Sound like a lot of things. You're trying to be tough? No wonder you aren't in the telephone directory. I'll just skip that. She said you were a lawyer. They say I drink too much. Haven't seen you drinking, have you? She wants you to get in touch with her. The man she was working for was murdered today. She kill him? Well, they're holding her. Material witness or suspect? Material witness. Right now. She doesn't want to spend the night in jail.

[Detective Lindetti]

Who does?

[Jeff Regan]

That's why she isn't feeling so good. He wants me to get her out? Something like that. Who's handling the case? Downtown? Detective named Lindetti. And where do you come in? Well, I didn't give her that one phone call. You're sensitive. What if I said no? Well, that's your business. You know why she asked you to see me? Because I'm a guy she knows. And every guy who knows little Dorothy has a little something for her. Ever met him like that, Regan? Sometimes. Just checking. Checking what? She's pretty good with the works. Eyes just right for the job. Yeah, just right. Everything just right. She can make you do A lot of things you don't want to do. Wait til you see her in a bathing suit at something, brother. Well, they aren't wearing them in the county jail. Okay, I'll phone when Daddy and find out what a bond is. Look, this is a murder case. There's no bond on this, you know that. Well, it depends how you handle it. I'll think of something. Yeah, I'll bet you will. We don't like each other much, do we? Nope, that's the way it goes. Listen, she said to tell you she was scared. Well, some of us are scared part of the time. And somebody gets shot and everybody gets scared. You scared? No. Iron Man. Reagan. Have a good time. Did I say Haines was shot? No, you didn't say a thing. See you somewhere, people. Well, I stopped by Musso Frank's and had the special and then I went on home. I tried to make a couple of calls, but when Daddy was out and the desk sergeant thought I was a reporter and he wouldn't tell me a thing about Dorothy Nolan, while I was sitting there, the phone began jumping around on the hook.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Regan?

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah, this is me.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Where you been? I called your place 20 times and I've called it once.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, I've been busy seeing a lawyer.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Why do you need a lawyer for? You aren't married.

[Jeff Regan]

Somebody else needs one.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Who?

[Jeff Regan]

Dorothy Nolan. That blonde who worked up in Haines office? When Daddy's holding her good, I want.

[Dorothy Nolan]

You to go down and see her.

[Jeff Regan]

What for?

[Dorothy Nolan]

We can still make something on this thing if we play it smart. When I talked to Haynes on the phone this afternoon, I told him I wanted a certified check.

[Jeff Regan]

So what?

[Dorothy Nolan]

So that means there's a check for 100 bucks lying around his office somewhere. And it's made out to International.

[Jeff Regan]

Look, he's dead. Remember?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Everybody dies. Don't worry about it.

[Jeff Regan]

We weren't even hired.

[Dorothy Nolan]

We had a verbal contract.

[Jeff Regan]

We had nothing.

[Dorothy Nolan]

That check's no good to anybody but us.

[Jeff Regan]

We didn't do anything for him.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Well, buy him some flowers. Now hop down to the pokey and see that dame and find out where that check is.

[Jeff Regan]

We can't do that.

[Dorothy Nolan]

I talked to Harry Presidio and he'll give us a lien to get in. Hello, Regan, you're still there?

[Jeff Regan]

I was still there, but I wasn't listening to the lion. I was looking at a skinny little man with one leg. Now don't ask me how he made it inside my door. He was just there, propped up on a pair of crutches, swaying Back and forth, watching me with a couple of sick gray eyes that were so full of water you'd think they were gonna float right out of his head all at once. He went down like a busted sugar sack. He'd been shot twice through the neck with a small caliber gun. 25, 32. I don't know. I found a dozen razor blades in one pocket and two dozen sets of shoelaces to go with them. There wasn't anything that told me his name, but there was a picture inside his shirt pocket. One of those things that you have taken in a penny arcade, you know, in front of phony pasteboard props. Well, a man with one leg was looking out from between a pair of painted angel's wings. The guy standing next to him who was smiling up at the halo was the same man that I'd seen that afternoon. An architect named Haynes. A man who needed the private detective. A man who walked out a glass door and dropped dead. And the one printed word above that picture stuck like a wart on an egg that said Happy Land.

[Narrator]

You are listening to the story of the man in the door. Tonight's adventure with Jeff Regan Investig. Here is a special and important message to every businessman. Listening to every businessman, regardless of the size or the type of his business. Gentlemen, do you realize that the schools of this community help you every day that you're in business? That's right. For one thing, our schools teach the boys and girls of this community to cherish the human rights, the free enterprise on which our country and your business are founded. With each new generation graduated from our school, the army defending our way of life and your business grows stronger. What's more, good teachers and well equipped schools do a better job of developing our children's talents. The result, school graduates become more skilled and more efficient employees. So remember, any time and taxes that you contribute to improving local schools are an investment in your own business. Future education is good business. Education can maintain our freedom. And freedom is everybody's job. And now back to the story of the man in the door and Jeff Regan, investigator.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, I left the little man with the one leg lying. There wasn't much I could do for him. I wanted to wait before I called Homicide. I took the picture I found in his pocket and I drove to Happyland. It turned out to be an open air penny arcade on 5th and Main. Smelled like all the hot dogs in the world had been made right there. There were machines all over the place telling you how strong you were, how rich you'd be and who you'd marry all for a penny. I guess it wasn't much of a bargain. The only customer was a sailor trying his luck at the shooting gallery. Back in the corner, a tired looking girl in light blue slacks and a dirty gray sweater was sitting on a stool by the hot dog counter, staring at nothing.

[Velma Carmen]

Want some pennies?

[Jeff Regan]

Not right now, no.

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, just looking. Go ahead. You figure out where you're gonna spend your money, come back and I'll give you some change.

[Jeff Regan]

You got a picture gallery here?

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, tell me you're a real big spender and want to have your picture taken.

[Jeff Regan]

Maybe you got one.

[Velma Carmen]

Yeah, we got one.

[Jeff Regan]

Where is it?

[Velma Carmen]

In there. You really want to get your picture taken? I'll climb off this stool and take you back. I want to tell you now, if you're just trying to be sociable, you can go and fly kikes.

[Jeff Regan]

You run the picture concession.

[Velma Carmen]

I? I run the picture place and the hot dog place and I sleep out in the morning. Oh, I wish I had better brains than to marry that slob and get myself stuck in a cheap dump like this.

[Jeff Regan]

All right. Do you remember taking this picture?

[Velma Carmen]

How would I know? I take a lot of pictures.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, come on, look at it.

[Velma Carmen]

All right, all right. Yeah, I took it. But, soldier, when? How do you think I am? Can't remember what night it is every time a pair of drunks comes in and wants your pictures taken together?

[Jeff Regan]

Well, try to remember, will you?

[Velma Carmen]

You're a real wise guy, mister. You don't want no picture. You just want some talk.

[Jeff Regan]

You're a cop friend. I met the little guy in the picture once.

[Velma Carmen]

That's the case.

[Jeff Regan]

What was that?

[Velma Carmen]

I thought you said you met him once.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, we weren't introduced. I just met him. Who is he?

[Velma Carmen]

Dusty Rhodes. Works with Circuit.

[Jeff Regan]

What? Circuit.

[Velma Carmen]

Fifth and Main Stem, business section.

[Jeff Regan]

What kind of business?

[Velma Carmen]

Dusty handled a razor blade in shoelace traffic. He hates pencils.

[Jeff Regan]

What'd he do when he wasn't working?

[Velma Carmen]

What does anybody do? He went out and got loaded.

[Jeff Regan]

Go on.

[Velma Carmen]

You don't know him very well for a friend. How am I gonna know I'm not getting Dusty in trouble talking to you like this?

[Jeff Regan]

Nobody can get him in trouble anymore, lady.

[Velma Carmen]

What do you mean?

[Jeff Regan]

He was shot tonight.

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, no. Oh, poor little guy.

[Jeff Regan]

You know where he lived?

[Velma Carmen]

Seashore Hotel. The Seashore Hotel. Oh, Jesus, I'm sick. I'm real sick.

[Detective Lindetti]

Brother. The Seashore caters to many types of people, good and bad. Just out of the pocket, two bits a night for transients. 150 a week for solid citizens. Sign a register.

[Jeff Regan]

It's a law. I'm not looking for a room.

[Detective Lindetti]

Then you're wasting my time, brother. My beer's getting warm.

[Jeff Regan]

Look, I'm a private investigator. My name's Regan.

[Detective Lindetti]

I liked you before you said them two words, brother, but you have soured me. Private investigator means private eye, and it all means cop.

[Jeff Regan]

And you are not welcome.

[Detective Lindetti]

Now, blow.

[Jeff Regan]

I'm trying to find out something about a man named Dusty Road.

[Detective Lindetti]

We do not ask questions and we do not give answers. Now blow.

[Jeff Regan]

I. I was told he lived here.

[Detective Lindetti]

You find me countless, brother. Now blow.

[Jeff Regan]

Did you know him?

[Detective Lindetti]

During the last five years, I have acquired £85 and a very bad heart. All right. Have you in the alley right now?

[Jeff Regan]

Oh, yeah, sure. You here?

[Detective Lindetti]

Abraham Lincoln was a very fine man. And he took a very fine picture. I seem to have found my tongue, brother.

[Jeff Regan]

Will it be the key to his room for a starter, huh?

[Detective Lindetti]

Disallowable and punishable by fine and imprisonment. Into the hall. Turn the Ben Fisto to the right.

[Jeff Regan]

Thanks. Well, I don't know what I expected to find there. Outside of more razor blades and more shoelaces was a little room full of dirty white curtains and a wire bed that sagged in the middle. I was standing here watching a neon sign advertised beer a block down the street when I thought I heard somebody behind me. Whoever it was had been drinking bad whiskey, but he was still pretty good. It landed a quarter of an inch above my right ear and I piled up in a lamp, a chair and a pitcher full of water.

[Detective Lindetti]

Five berries gets you a look, brother, but doesn't get you a room. Besides, it's already taking on the beds over there. Now, come on. Oh, you didn't go to sleep, brother. You was knocked asleep. I apologize. Why the games?

[Jeff Regan]

Who came in after me?

[Detective Lindetti]

You're the only one.

[Jeff Regan]

You sure?

[Detective Lindetti]

My name's Sam Preacher, brother. I'm very sure.

[Jeff Regan]

Maybe he was waiting for me.

[Detective Lindetti]

I don't generally ask him, but the question is this. Why?

[Jeff Regan]

I don't know. Unless.

[Detective Lindetti]

What's the matter? Something missing?

[Jeff Regan]

Just a picture.

[Detective Lindetti]

You can get lots of pictures.

[Jeff Regan]

You didn't see anybody?

[Detective Lindetti]

That makes the third time, brother, and the answer's still negative.

[Velma Carmen]

Okay.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Okay.

[Detective Lindetti]

Then let's blow, buddy, huh?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Coroner's office.

[Jeff Regan]

Luke, this is Regan the Lion's Eye.

[Dorothy Nolan]

What's with you, baby? When Daddy tells me you walked into one today.

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah, I did. You got him there?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Haynes? Dudley. Sure. Want to come down and take a look? He's toe tagged and salted down real pretty.

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah, I'll bet them.

[Dorothy Nolan]

32 slugs was just incidental. The guy had four weeks at the outside.

[Jeff Regan]

All right, give it to me.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Haynes Dudley was dying from malnutrition, alcoholism and a couple other things with long names.

[Jeff Regan]

Give me one. Long name.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Diabetes. He didn't take good care of himself. Funny.

[Jeff Regan]

A misspent life.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Somebody's gonna take the gas chamber for nothing when.

[Jeff Regan]

Denny know this?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Sure, sure. And he was wearing a brand new suit, too. We'll sew up the holes. We'll bury him in it.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, you aren't finished yet.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Luke, baby.

[Jeff Regan]

A guy with one leg dropped dead in my place a couple hours ago.

[Dorothy Nolan]

It's after 11.

[Jeff Regan]

I'm sorry, Luke.

[Velma Carmen]

Stay.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Connected.

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Murder.

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Well, come down and see us anytime, rean. We're open 24 hours a day.

[Jeff Regan]

Now. At the Homicide office. They told me she'd been released about 10 o'.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Clock.

[Jeff Regan]

They said a lawyer named Henderson had put up the bail and handled the whole thing. They gave me an address on her when I went out there. It was a bungalow court on Normandy and it took her a long time to answer the door.

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, you.

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah. Tell me how tall I am.

[Velma Carmen]

I'd love to, but not right now.

[Jeff Regan]

They told me you'd been out since 10 o'.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Clock.

[Jeff Regan]

Maybe I should have come sooner.

[Velma Carmen]

Tao gives me the willage. I'm about to take a shower.

[Jeff Regan]

I was kind of hoping we could have a drink.

[Velma Carmen]

I did better than I thought with you.

[Jeff Regan]

I got a hold of a lawyer for you tonight.

[Velma Carmen]

Yeah?

[Jeff Regan]

Well, doesn't that rate me an invitation to have a drink?

[Velma Carmen]

I said later. I'm really tired.

[Jeff Regan]

I said no.

[Velma Carmen]

Well, if you're that thirsty.

[Jeff Regan]

All right, that's better.

[Velma Carmen]

And every day my boss gets killed and I meet a private detective.

[Jeff Regan]

I need a drink. I was slugged tonight. Yeah, right here.

[Velma Carmen]

See what looks nasty? Why'd anyone do that to you?

[Jeff Regan]

Wanted a picture.

[Velma Carmen]

I had Whistler's Mother.

[Jeff Regan]

Just a picture of a couple of drunks who are dead now.

[Velma Carmen]

Maybe whoever did it was erotic.

[Jeff Regan]

Guess again.

[Velma Carmen]

I don't like games.

[Jeff Regan]

But you play them all the time. We all.

[Velma Carmen]

I know a psychiatrist says we can't help ourselves.

[Jeff Regan]

You can.

[Velma Carmen]

I liked you when you walked into the office this afternoon. But I'm not so sure I like you now that you better go.

[Jeff Regan]

Expecting somebody? What are you doing?

[Velma Carmen]

You let go of me. Let go of me.

[Jeff Regan]

Oh, no, baby, you got real nice eyes. I want to look at him.

[Velma Carmen]

Let go. He's crazy.

[Jeff Regan]

Hello, Dave. We didn't hear you knock. Did you bring your piano?

[Velma Carmen]

What's the idea he came here?

[Jeff Regan]

Why don't you tell him to go away? Baby, anybody can tell we're busy. Let it go. Rigging. You want to break us up.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Can't you see?

[Velma Carmen]

Just trying to make you jealous and saving.

[Jeff Regan]

Come here, honey.

[Velma Carmen]

No, you don't have to do that.

[Jeff Regan]

I should let her go. That the same.32 you killed a one legged man with over gum? Sure.

[Velma Carmen]

Don't be a fool.

[Jeff Regan]

Stay where we are, Baby. You're first.

[Velma Carmen]

Listen to me, baby.

[Detective Lindetti]

I listen to you too long.

[Velma Carmen]

He's only guessing. He doesn't have any proof of anything.

[Jeff Regan]

You can cry if you want to, baby. This is going to hurt. She spun around and fell into a coffee table and then lay very quiet on the rug. Her eyes were open and she didn't say anything. She just lay there looking up at him. I couldn't tell where she'd been hit. He seemed to forget all about me because he walked over to her, knelt down beside her, put the gun right up against her head. This is awful close range, baby, but I can't afford to miss. Neither could I. Well, when Daddy and I stuck our heads together and it all came out when we looked into a couple of things. You see, Dave Henderson was Dudley Haynes. And he was wanted for attempted murder and embezzling and one thing or another back in Ohio. So he figured it'd be a good idea to bump himself off. Dorothy helped him with the idea. They both went down on Main street and they picked up an old bum, dressed him up in a new suit and shot him. I was supposed to walk in with Dorothy and she'd identify the body. And as far as anybody knew, Dudley Haynes would be dead. Dave didn't figure that she'd be taken down. She didn't figure that she'd get scared. And neither of them figured the man with one leg was a pal of the man that they'd shot. Well, it seems that they looked through a lot of files. And I figured that a lot of murders go unsolved. Maybe they do. I don't know. Anyway, he sat down on that little bench up there in San Quentin last week. The one with that bucket of acid in the room. He held his breath as long as he could, but everybody has to breathe. He's buried up there with a lot of other guys that figured they could get away with murder. Dorothy, she wasn't hurt too bad. I had her in a wheelchair for the trial. She got 15 years as an accomplice. Some kind of a deal, state's evidence and all that. I don't think I'll wait for her. She wasn't that good.

[Narrator]

Jack Webb is featured as Jeff Regan with Wills Herbert as Anthony J. Lyon. It's CBS at 9:30 next week for more hard boiled action and mystery with Jeff Regan, Investigator written by E. Jack Newman and produced by Sterling Tracy. Dorothy Nolan was played by Betty Lou Gerson and David Ellis was Dave Henderson. Lorraine Tuttle, William Conrad and Lou Krugman.

[Jeff Regan]

Support.

[Narrator]

It'S perfectly natural and wholesome for some men to want to leave great wealth behind. There's a druggist in a small town in Pennsylvania who will do that. The wealth he'll leave behind will make many lives easier and happier and finer down through the years. For he was the principal donor of an outdoor meeting place for religious services in a boy Scout camp in the Poconos. Working with his neighbors and community activities, he saw the need of this improvement helped to install it. That's the kind of wealth that you can bequeath from to generations coming on as you enjoy the freedom of working with your neighbors for the betterment of your community. Freedom that can be anybody's pleasure is everybody's job. Music for this program is arranged by Dick. Around next week at 9:30, Jeff Regan, investigator, brings you another thrill packed half hour with his story of the house by the sea. Bob Stevenson speaking. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Velma Carmen]

Foreign.

[Prince Carew]

Let'S map out this week's amazing.

[Jeff Regan]

Destinations and travel tips.

[Velma Carmen]

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

[Jeff Regan]

That's not the itinerary we're following.

[Velma Carmen]

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 and gave us four new phones on the house.

[Detective Lindetti]

Bon voyage.

[T-Mobile Advertiser]

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[Jeff Regan]

My name is Jeff Regan. I get 10 a day and expenses from a detective bureau run by a Guy named Lyon. Anthony J. Lyon. They call me the Lion's Eye.

[Narrator]

With Jack Webb as Jeff Regan. Investigators stand by for hard boiled action and mystery and thrilling adventure in tonight's story of the House by the Sea.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, this is the way it started. I walked in the office about 11 o' clock that morning. It was a nice warm day and I didn't have much on my mind. That's the trouble with nice days. You take a couple of easy breaths, open somebody's door and it's just like peeling a wrapper off an atomic bomb. The lion was in his den, sitting behind his desk. He couldn't tell where he left off and the desk began. He was talking to a girl with a flock of black hair. He was the kind you see driving a Cadillac convertible down Sunset Boulevard on hot Sunday afternoons. No wonder the lion's cigar was out, was wet on both ends.

[Detective Lindetti]

Well, well, Come in, Regan.

[Jeff Regan]

Come in.

[Detective Lindetti]

I was just about to call you, but now that you're here, it makes things simpler. Ms. Carmen, this is Mr. Regan.

[Velma Carmen]

How do you do, Mr. Regan? Mr. Lyon tells me you're just the man I want.

[Jeff Regan]

You said the same thing to a mortician last week.

[Velma Carmen]

He is the man I want, Mr. Lyon.

[Detective Lindetti]

Well, that's fine, Ms. Carbon. I knew you'd be pleased. I'm very proud of Jeffrey.

[Jeff Regan]

As long as I'm in the cast, how about a look at the script, huh?

[Detective Lindetti]

Ms. Carmen is associated with the famous psychic consultant Prince Cairo.

[Velma Carmen]

I help the prince look into people's minds.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, that ought to be real fun if all your customers are under six.

[Velma Carmen]

You don't believe in thought transference, Mr. Regan, do you? I said I helped the prince.

[Detective Lindetti]

Prince Carew sent Ms. Carmen to retain an operator. Jeffrey, it's a very delicate matter and I'm placing the entire case in your hand.

[Jeff Regan]

Why didn't he come himself?

[Velma Carmen]

Do you disapprove of me?

[Jeff Regan]

I just want to know what's what.

[Velma Carmen]

Prince Cairo never appears in public. He prefers to spend his time in meditation and thought. Yeah, I handle all of his outside contacts.

[Detective Lindetti]

So, Jeffrey, you just drive on out to Prince Karu's home in Ocean Town with Ms. Carmen and speak to the prince.

[Jeff Regan]

What kind of a retainer did he send? How much did you get?

[Detective Lindetti]

Now, see here, Regan, we don't discuss finances in front of clients.

[Jeff Regan]

Oh, stop it, will you? This is another blind spot. You don't know what it's all about. All you know is she waltzed in here with a check and you'd sell your grandmother a Glue factory for two bucks. How do I know I won't wind up being Apache again?

[Velma Carmen]

Is there any way I can reassure you?

[Jeff Regan]

Buy me a battleship.

[Detective Lindetti]

Jeffrey, have I ever involved you in anything that I wouldn't undertake myself? Have I ever knowingly imperiled your life?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Yeah, Jeffrey.

[Jeff Regan]

Come on, lady. What's it all about? You work for the guy?

[Velma Carmen]

Well, I really don't know. He was excited this morning. Called me in, gave me this address and told me to make arrangements.

[Jeff Regan]

He must have told you something.

[Velma Carmen]

He never tells me anything. As you say, I. I just worked for him. Well, all right.

[Jeff Regan]

I'm hired. Good. Good.

[Detective Lindetti]

Now, call me Jeffrey. Call me if you run into any trouble.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, I asked her, how about lunch? She said no. I asked her about dinner. She said something that meant no, so I gave up. You know, it's like that sometimes. The flag's up, the meter's ticking, and you're not getting anywhere. But from a couple of things she told me, I got the idea she was doing more than just helping the Prince read minds. Well, his place turned out to be a good hour from downtown Los Angeles up 101. It was a couple of stories of glass and concrete leaning out over the ocean. It was high and dry and quiet up there, and you got a feeling you should be hearing things and feeling things when you looked down and saw that water banging around the bottom of the cliff. She unlocked the door and a guy in a white turban and some pants that looked like oversized diapers and a pair of tennis shoes were standing there. He had a big curved knife hanging around his waist, and he put his hand on it when he saw me.

[Velma Carmen]

Right this way, Mr. Regan.

[Jeff Regan]

Who's he, the butcher?

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, that's Telly. He works for the Prince. Man servant. He's from India.

[Jeff Regan]

I'll bet the Indians are glad to get rid of him.

[Velma Carmen]

Telly's harmless, tongueless, and he doesn't hear. I like you, Madrig.

[Detective Lindetti]

Come in, come in. Ah, Velma, my dear, you've returned with spoils. Welcome, sir, welcome.

[Velma Carmen]

Mr. Regan, this is Prince Carew Regan, the Lion's Eye.

[Detective Lindetti]

I've heard of you, Mr. Regan. I'm honored. Sit down. That'll be all.

[Velma Carmen]

Velma.

[Detective Lindetti]

Charming girl.

[Jeff Regan]

She handle all your outside contacts Most efficiently.

[Detective Lindetti]

Except, of course, for matters that I must handle personally.

[Jeff Regan]

What kind of matters?

[Detective Lindetti]

I'm in trouble, Mr. Regan, and I beg your assistance.

[Jeff Regan]

That's all paid for.

[Detective Lindetti]

Correct. But there's a personal bonus in this for you.

[Jeff Regan]

Why?

[Detective Lindetti]

Because, sir, I want you to save my Life.

[Jeff Regan]

You look healthy to me.

[Detective Lindetti]

I am healthy, let me assure you. But my life has been threatened.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, that'd come under police business, wouldn't it?

[Detective Lindetti]

Normally. Didn't Ms. Carmen explain that this was a delicate matter?

[Jeff Regan]

Yes, she did. Why didn't she call the police?

[Detective Lindetti]

I'm hardly in a position to ask the police for assistance, Mr. Regan. It is a delicate matter.

[Jeff Regan]

Outside, it says you're a mind reader. All right, what am I thinking now?

[Detective Lindetti]

That I'm a charlatan, a faker and that I'm trying to hide something from him.

[Jeff Regan]

That catch you? The cigar.

[Detective Lindetti]

It's been a very lucrative arrangement for the most part, and very satisfactory. Except, of course, for the annoyance of having my life threatened.

[Jeff Regan]

Who's the guy?

[Detective Lindetti]

It would be of no consequence if it were a man. It's a lady, Mr. Regan. A very beautiful and lovely creature. And she'd like nothing better than to see my carcass go out with the tide.

[Jeff Regan]

Why does she want to kill you?

[Detective Lindetti]

Matter of confidence. Suffice it to say that she is thoroughly capable of doing just that.

[Jeff Regan]

How do you know?

[Detective Lindetti]

One, she is erratic, ill tempered, ruthless. Two, she called me this morning and told me what she intended to do.

[Jeff Regan]

She's giving you a chance to reach for your gun.

[Detective Lindetti]

To reach for you, Mr. Regan.

[Jeff Regan]

What do you want me to do?

[Detective Lindetti]

I feel the entire matter could be settled amicably if you were to call on her, inform her that you are my personal bodyguard and that you are here to protect my life.

[Jeff Regan]

You think she'd go for that?

[Detective Lindetti]

Fantastic.

[Jeff Regan]

How long you been blackmailing her?

[Detective Lindetti]

What?

[Jeff Regan]

Your racket might last six months or a year, but not long enough to pay for a place like this. The answer's blackmail, isn't it?

[Detective Lindetti]

Okay, okay, okay. I should have told you.

[Jeff Regan]

How do you do it?

[Detective Lindetti]

I can slip them into a trance. They spill a family secret or do I push a buck that way?

[Jeff Regan]

That's nice.

[Detective Lindetti]

They want their minds read. I read them. 25 bucks a parade and shakedown. The guy's gotta eat.

[Jeff Regan]

You put the squeeze on her?

[Detective Lindetti]

She's an actress. She was in on a deal at the studios. She wouldn't shake at first. I just told her I had to have a larger fee. Then they come out with it cold turkey.

[Jeff Regan]

She said she'd blow your head off.

[Detective Lindetti]

Yeah, she's the kind I went wrong on. This one, I'm on a spot.

[Jeff Regan]

Who is she?

[Detective Lindetti]

Grace Nichols, movie actress. Ever heard of her?

[Jeff Regan]

Redhead.

[Detective Lindetti]

Makes you want to go home and kick your wife downstairs if you got one that good. Better. But she means this business about bumping me, and I won't look good dead.

[Jeff Regan]

All right. Where'd she live?

[Detective Lindetti]

Over in the Palisades.

[Jeff Regan]

Here's her address.

[Detective Lindetti]

You going over there now?

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Detective Lindetti]

Be careful.

[Jeff Regan]

She isn't gunning for me.

[Detective Lindetti]

That isn't what I mean. There's a skinny boy there. He's nasty. No callers. Name of Tim Rogers.

[Jeff Regan]

I remember that.

[Detective Lindetti]

I hope you can talk her out of it. I've been sweating. I don't want to shake her down. I just want to get a little sleep at night.

[Jeff Regan]

I left him sitting there scratching his bald head under his turban. He looked about as happy as a guy who just ate a Vaseline sandwich. Well, Grace's place was too big for a marble game and too small for football. I think I remember reading something about how she got it from her third husband. There was a big wire fence all around it and a sign every 15 or 20ft telling you not to trespass. So I parked my car outside the driveway and walked up to the the front door. A guy in a chauffeur's uniform was standing there. He looked like a razor blade with arms. He gave me the fisheye and blew smoke in my face and kind of nudged me with his shoulder. Move on, pilgrim. No handouts here. I came to see Grace Nichols. Yeah? I got business with her. Yeah, so tell her I'm here. Blow. You always like this, or did you miss lunch today? I don't know who you are, pilgrim, but I don't like you. Beat it. I know you. There's something about a guy in a lineup. Yeah, he memorizes real easy. Copper. Investigator. Private or city, I don't care. You all smell the same. This isn't hunting season. You always carry a.38?

[Detective Lindetti]

Does it show?

[Jeff Regan]

Maybe you got a broken rib.

[Detective Lindetti]

A real funny guy.

[Jeff Regan]

I met all kinds of funny guys, Drift. I said I wanted to see her. And I said she wasn't in. All right, I'll tell you once more. I got business with her. So do a couple of hundred other guys. Watchdog. Now you're getting smart. You aren't kind of a crackazette. I wanna see her. I'm gonna see her. Trick I learned a long time ago. Shoot a guy in the knee and he'll never walk straight again. You ever done it? Oh, yeah. That's how I learned.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Ow.

[Jeff Regan]

That's one I learned, baby.

[Velma Carmen]

Well, I might have to get a new chauffeur.

[Jeff Regan]

You looking for a job? I already got one.

[Velma Carmen]

Lady, Timmy's Gonna be awfully upset when he finds out what happened to him. When someone works for me, they have to be perfect. What is job?

[Jeff Regan]

He wouldn't let me in.

[Velma Carmen]

I'll let you in. You do that kind of thing often?

[Jeff Regan]

When I have to.

[Velma Carmen]

I suppose you have a name?

[Jeff Regan]

It's Regan. I'm a private investigator.

[Velma Carmen]

All right, Mr. Regan, you've ruined a perfectly good chauffeur and bodyguard and you're in my house. What have we got to talk about?

[Jeff Regan]

Guy named Cairo.

[Velma Carmen]

The Prince. Must we talk about him?

[Jeff Regan]

He thinks you're dangerous stuff.

[Velma Carmen]

So do a lot of people. Tell me, Mr. Regan, what do you think?

[Jeff Regan]

About what?

[Velma Carmen]

Me.

[Jeff Regan]

Right now or when I'm a couple of feet away?

[Velma Carmen]

Right now.

[Jeff Regan]

Look, remember, I just got here.

[Velma Carmen]

I know. You must have a first name. What is it?

[Jeff Regan]

Jeff.

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, Jeff. We'll get along. It's in the cards.

[Jeff Regan]

Pretty fast deal.

[Velma Carmen]

I like it this way.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Fast.

[Jeff Regan]

Might be a bum deck.

[Velma Carmen]

Never mind.

[Jeff Regan]

Deal. That's the bell. How much time between rounds?

[Velma Carmen]

Well, you know me better. Hello? Yes. Yes, right here. You know a man named Lion? Jerry?

[Jeff Regan]

Uh huh.

[Velma Carmen]

He seems to be roaring.

[Jeff Regan]

Give it to me. Yeah?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Regan, is that you?

[Jeff Regan]

Well now, how do you figure it?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Don't be smart. Who's the name? Who? Answer the phone.

[Jeff Regan]

Our client's friend.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Not that she's a friend of yours now. Or maybe you have been doing some road work.

[Jeff Regan]

Did you have something to say or is this the day you turned scoutmaster? I'm busy.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Well, you can stop being busy, lover. It's all off.

[Jeff Regan]

Don't tell me you're passing up a fee.

[Dorothy Nolan]

I'm passing up nothing, Prince. Carol called me 10 minutes ago and told me to forget the whole thing. And that's what I'm telling you.

[Jeff Regan]

How'd you know I was here?

[Dorothy Nolan]

The Prince told me. So it's all over, Finished. Forget it.

[Jeff Regan]

I've already started something.

[Dorothy Nolan]

I don't care what you've started. Just remember, you finish it on your own time. An expense sheet.

[Velma Carmen]

You look worried. Do you have anything I can do?

[Jeff Regan]

I'm called off.

[Velma Carmen]

You mean you're out of a job? I got one, remember? You put my bodyguard out of commission? You owe me something.

[Jeff Regan]

Oh, Tim boy, he'll come around.

[Velma Carmen]

I don't want him anymore. I want you. I'll get you a drink.

[Dorothy Nolan]

We can talk about it.

[Jeff Regan]

Carew told me that Tim was a pretty good boy.

[Velma Carmen]

You can fill his shoes. Come here and get your drink. Tell me about nine o'clock tonight.

[Jeff Regan]

It'll get dark. I got A new dress.

[Velma Carmen]

I think you'll like it.

[Jeff Regan]

I probably would.

[Velma Carmen]

The place above Malibu. We could have dinner and listen to some music. I want to be with you, Jeff.

[Jeff Regan]

That deal's fast again.

[Velma Carmen]

I don't care. I don't care. I just decided something, Jeff. I'm gonna like being with you. I'm gonna like it a lot.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, she didn't want me to go, but I was thinking about the prince and the way everything looked. I told her I'd see her that night. I was just climbing into my car when Tim Rogers, her ex number one boy, stepped out from the gate. I waited for him to walk over. Pretty good with your women, Regan. You look lonely, Timmy. Somebody stole your popsicle. Bum joke. Regan, I've been waiting to talk to you. You were so quiet in the house. I didn't want to make any noise any better. Here. You came out champ this afternoon. But you won't even make the prelims. Next time you got something to say, stay away from her. You're shaking. You need a drink. Stay away from Riggin. I've been with her too long, known her too long to take the bounce from a two bit gum heel. Goodbye. I'm not finished yet. That's your version? Now get your foot off that running board, punker. I'll take it with me. I left him standing in the middle of the driveway. If I'd have waited another minute, he'd have been crying. I stopped off and had some barbecued ribs at a drive in out on Sunset. It was just getting dark. When I got to my place, I had company. It was Velma Carmen, Prince Karu's right hand man. She was sitting on the edge of my sofa. Her back was as stiff as a filing cabinet and there was a little ring of white around her lips. She looked like she'd just been measured for a coffin. It was a 25 automatic sitting in her lap.

[Velma Carmen]

I've been waiting for you, Mr. Week. I asked the janitor to let me in. Yeah, he was very nice about it. I told him I was associated with one of your clients. Yes, I told him I was associated with Ryan Ran. Did you know that Prince Carol was my husband?

[Jeff Regan]

Since when?

[Velma Carmen]

Oh, a long time now. A long time. Not many people know that.

[Jeff Regan]

Is that what you came here to tell me?

[Velma Carmen]

No, I. I came to tell you that you don't have to worry anymore. None of us have to worry anymore.

[Jeff Regan]

You mean you're calling me off the case?

[Velma Carmen]

That's it. That's exactly it. I'm calling you off the case?

[Jeff Regan]

Well, I've already been called off. My office phoned me when I was over at her house.

[Velma Carmen]

Great. Nichols?

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Velma Carmen]

And it was about her.

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Velma Carmen]

Well, then we don't have to worry anymore, do we?

[Jeff Regan]

No.

[Velma Carmen]

She's very pretty, isn't she? I've seen her many times. I think she's quite pretty. I could hardly blame the Prince. I hardly blame him at all.

[Jeff Regan]

What are you getting at?

[Velma Carmen]

Because all the others were pretty, too.

[Jeff Regan]

Where'd you get that gun?

[Velma Carmen]

This? I bought it for $30.

[Jeff Regan]

Let me see it.

[Velma Carmen]

Huh? Oh, yes. I brought it here so I could show it to you. I paid $30 for it. I paid $30. I'd imagine the air would be cleaner in there, don't you?

[Jeff Regan]

What are you talking about?

[Velma Carmen]

I mean, it's really very humane. They come. It's just like sitting down and never waking up. I read all about it. You just walk in and sit down, and if you don't try to hold your breath, you. You go to sleep, don't you? You've met murderers before, Ms. Regan. Do I make a good murderer? Do I make a good murderer?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Stop it.

[Jeff Regan]

Stop it, will ya? You're trying to tell me you killed him, Mr. Regan.

[Velma Carmen]

That's why I came here. I shot him. I walked up behind him and I put the gun close to his back and pulled the trigger. They don't make such a great deal of noise. Do you think I left him sitting there in his house by the sea? And he looks very much alive. Only he isn't alive at all. Now answer me. Now answer me. Do I make a good murderer?

[Dorothy Nolan]

You like me?

[Narrator]

You are listening to the story of the House by the sea. Tonight's adventure with Jeff Regan, investigator. They're still available for qualified nurses. Yes, the Army Nurse Corps Reserve still has commissions available. If you are a graduate registered nurse between the ages of 21 and 45, you may be eligible for a commission in the Army Nurse Corps section of the Regular Officers Reserve. To find out if you do qualify for a commission in the Army Nurse Corps Reserve, apply to the adjutant general, Washington, D.C. and now back to the story of the House by the Sea and Jeff Regan, investigator.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, after she got through, she settled down to a slow, even kind of a giggle. It started somewhere around her shoelaces and didn't get past her knees. It was one of those things that gives you a feeling like somebody standing in back of you with a red hot iron ready to press your pants before you get them off. She wasn't going to do Any more talking? So I went downstairs and brought back a doctor friend of mine named Sammy Wing. He brought his little black bag with him and gave her a shot or something. She wilted like last night's orchid and went to sleep on my couch. Sammy began talking.

[Velma Carmen]

Some playmate. Wish I'd have been here for the party. I had four appendectomies and one broken leg today. So they are alive.

[Jeff Regan]

How is she?

[Velma Carmen]

You know her better than me.

[Jeff Regan]

She gonna be all right?

[Velma Carmen]

Will she wake up in five or six hours? I want some water.

[Jeff Regan]

Then what?

[Velma Carmen]

She might ask you what happened or it might start all over again. Whatever it was. By the way, what was it?

[Jeff Regan]

Well, I found her here when I got home.

[Velma Carmen]

I should find something like this.

[Jeff Regan]

She said she killed an ex client of mine.

[Velma Carmen]

Maybe I'm lucky at that. What does all the past tense mean?

[Jeff Regan]

I was called off occasionally.

[Velma Carmen]

Nice. It's all clean. No clients to protect. Is there a corpse someplace?

[Jeff Regan]

I don't know. Sammy.

[Velma Carmen]

Call the police. They find out, then you and me can go out and get a drink.

[Jeff Regan]

She said she used this gun. Smell it, Sammy. It hasn't been fired. Safety catch is still on.

[Velma Carmen]

She's pretty and she's nice. And I'll bet she looks like a million bucks in a bathing suit. But if I'd have met her within the last three hours, I'd run for help.

[Jeff Regan]

Call the police. Is that professional?

[Velma Carmen]

This is acute hysteria. The kind that pops off guns and pops off people and does a lot of things they can't remember later on. Call the police.

[Jeff Regan]

What about the gun?

[Velma Carmen]

Other guns.

[Jeff Regan]

Call the coroner.

[Velma Carmen]

While you're at it, tell him to go out there with some DOA forms. He'll use them.

[Jeff Regan]

Or you stay here with it. Like it bank corpse hunt? Just an idea.

[Velma Carmen]

Hitler had an idea.

[Jeff Regan]

The odds were against him.

[Velma Carmen]

You got about as much chance as a three legged horse in the Kentucky Derby. She's bit somebody and she's told you about it.

[Jeff Regan]

I want to make sure.

[Velma Carmen]

What do they do when a private eye walks in and messes up an ice cream murder?

[Jeff Regan]

Sammy, where you stay?

[Velma Carmen]

Had any bourbon around here?

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Velma Carmen]

Okay. Take your time. Maybe both of us will get our pictures in the paper.

[Jeff Regan]

I left him with a kind of a soft smile on his face like he had some inside information on Tuesday's winner at Del Mar. Well, it was 9:30 by the time I got there. And it was dark enough to give a ghost that creeps. It was different too. Maybe it was the fog. I used that ring of keys. I'd taken from her purse. Smelled dry and funny. Inside, it was real quiet, like somebody was waiting for the world to fall apart. I clicked on my flashlight and I walked down the long hall to his office. He was there, just like she said. There were three holes in the front of his shirt, but it wasn't the laundry's fault. I spotted the.38 on the floor by his hand. I broke it, and three cartridges came out. Was the right gun for the job. It was pretty messed up. While I was standing there trying to figure Velma Carmen's story, the lights came on. A fat man wearing a sheriff star was standing by the switch. There was a taller man in a brown overcoat next to him. They both looked like they'd just finished dinner.

[Detective Lindetti]

Scavenger. Hot, son. You don't talk, Charlie. Ain't much for him to say, is there, Cap? Guess not. Well, son, it looks like you're gonna.

[Jeff Regan]

Be calling me names.

[Detective Lindetti]

What do you like best, killer, murderer or slayer? The Vapors use slayer a lot.

[Jeff Regan]

I don't like any of them.

[Detective Lindetti]

Kind of breezy for a hot boy, ain't you? Mind giving me a name?

[Jeff Regan]

It's Regan. I'm a private detective.

[Velma Carmen]

It's Regan. He's a private detective.

[Jeff Regan]

Cap?

[Velma Carmen]

Yeah?

[Detective Lindetti]

Got a card or something with you, son? Yeah, he's right, but. International lion still there?

[Jeff Regan]

Yeah.

[Velma Carmen]

Who's that?

[Detective Lindetti]

An old bum I used to know. Regan. Why do you go around killing people? The lion will be mad.

[Jeff Regan]

Look, this is a fix.

[Detective Lindetti]

Now, why do you want to say a thing like that?

[Jeff Regan]

Somebody tip you?

[Detective Lindetti]

Phone call a little while ago, huh? Funny kind of a voice. A whisper. Said we'd find a stiff up here, but didn't say we'd find you. You're extra.

[Jeff Regan]

Look, I just came here to see what it was all about.

[Detective Lindetti]

Same thing we did, only we come up with a suspect and a corpse. No cop could ask for anything better, Charlie. Better call a coroner. Ocean Town. Just a small place, Reagan. Only me and Charlie around. We borrow from the county when we get something like this.

[Jeff Regan]

I can find you a real answer in an hour.

[Detective Lindetti]

You let me and Charlie worry about that. You look good enough for the time being. All right, son.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Let's go.

[Jeff Regan]

I had as much chance as an elephant in a tea room. And if those two lock me up and book me. So I leaned back into his gun and spun around and knocked his wrist down. He pulled the trigger for that time. I flicked the light switch and was out the door. I didn't run from my car. I cut across the driveway and doubled back up the hill. I could hear him yelling and shooting out in the dark. I hailed a cab about five blocks away and he took me to the place above Malibu. I found her in a booth with a piano player. She was wearing one of those black strapless things. And it was worrying a couple. Couple of ball headed guys sitting at the bar.

[Dorothy Nolan]

You're late, Jeff.

[Velma Carmen]

We said nine o'. Clock. I've had three drinks all alone. You want me to get mad? Are you gonna catch up?

[Jeff Regan]

How long you been here?

[Velma Carmen]

You sound like you're out of the mood. I thought we were gonna look at the stars together.

[Jeff Regan]

How long you been here?

[Velma Carmen]

It's nine o'.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Clock.

[Velma Carmen]

What's the matter?

[Jeff Regan]

I've been working tonight.

[Velma Carmen]

Well, it's after hours now. Tell me how you like my new dress.

[Jeff Regan]

It's the right color with the wrong cut for a funeral.

[Velma Carmen]

I haven't read the obituaries today.

[Jeff Regan]

It'll be in tomorrow's paper. Only it'll make the front page.

[Velma Carmen]

Have a drink. Let's wait for tomorrow.

[Jeff Regan]

Your friend was killed tonight.

[Velma Carmen]

What friend?

[Jeff Regan]

Karu.

[Velma Carmen]

He was no friend of mine. I told you that. So did he car smash up or did he fall off his house?

[Jeff Regan]

38.

[Velma Carmen]

We didn't talk about him this afternoon. Let's not start now.

[Jeff Regan]

Look, two cops in Ocean Town are kind of crowding me. They think I'm gonna take a good picture.

[Velma Carmen]

Isn't that why you late?

[Jeff Regan]

It's a murder rap, lady.

[Velma Carmen]

We should have had dinner together.

[Jeff Regan]

They'll be knocking down your door in the morning.

[Velma Carmen]

Why, darling?

[Jeff Regan]

Because you threatened to kill him? Because he hired me to call you off.

[Velma Carmen]

Wait a moment, Jeff. You've been having fun up there. Now who told you that?

[Jeff Regan]

Why'd you think he sent me over today to sell magazines?

[Velma Carmen]

I never found out. You were called off. I suppose he hired you to scare me. Jeff, we're old friends. Now I can tell you a family secret.

[Jeff Regan]

I know about him blackmailing you. And that puts you ahead of me for the cops. Did you do it?

[Velma Carmen]

I don't know. Did you? What he told you don't sound right.

[Jeff Regan]

What does sound right?

[Velma Carmen]

I went to him one day and put him in a trance. Any IU scotch. Found out what he was doing and how I was doing it. So I turned the tables. It was good clean fun, but expensive for him.

[Jeff Regan]

You've been draining him.

[Velma Carmen]

I thought that's why you came today. That's why I had Timmy around.

[Jeff Regan]

Now some of this is beginning to make change. If he was your meal tickets Then you got an alibi.

[Velma Carmen]

I don't feel like stars anymore, Jeff. Let's go over to my place and talk.

[Jeff Regan]

On the way over. She didn't have much to say, and I couldn't think of anything. I was all too mixed up if she'd really been shaking him down. Then she figured out, and the girl back in my apartment figured in. Only she had the wrong gun. Then there was a little business that I'd have to explain with the Ocean Town cops. Well, when we turned in the driveway, I stopped figuring. Tim Rogers, the man with the guns, was there, standing on the porch. Oh, gorgeous. I've been waiting to see you. You're home late.

[Velma Carmen]

I thought I fired you.

[Jeff Regan]

Still tramping with this tramp, huh? I thought you'd be sick of him by now. For once, I'm glad to see you, Tim. Bo, that sounds cozy, but I don't want to see you. I know where your.38 is. You're wrong. It's her.38 and it's got her prints on it.

[Velma Carmen]

Jeff, he's making it look bad for me.

[Jeff Regan]

Ask me. Ask him what he's doing here, will you? Just in for a showdown, angel. You're tagged for his murder. They'll want you. I fixed it good. I can fix it so you can get away.

[Velma Carmen]

How?

[Jeff Regan]

Friend of mine shutting off at Petro. 4:00 go all over the world.

[Velma Carmen]

Jeff, if all of this is straight, I'm in a spot.

[Jeff Regan]

Relax. This guy never did anything right. Tell me how I'm wrong.

[Detective Lindetti]

All right.

[Jeff Regan]

That tip to the Ocean Town cops was wrong. Trying to pile up a scare on me was wrong. Killing Kra was wrong, and this clinches it. Yeah, well, that's where you're twisted, pilgrim. I got a warrant out for you right now. Plugging a murder suspect is something they'll thank me for. You said her prints were on that gun. They'll find that out in the morning. And how was I to know? Just happened to hear on the radio they were looking for you. Tonight, I see you, I plug you, everybody will be sorry. But it'll be manslaughter and suspended. I worked it once in Toledo. What do you say, angel? Do I plug him and meet you somewhere in two weeks?

[Velma Carmen]

Let me have a smoke. Let me think it over.

[Jeff Regan]

Sure she'll go ahead.

[Dorothy Nolan]

Your angel.

[Jeff Regan]

Well, the gun's empty now.

[Velma Carmen]

I carried this for three years. I never used it. He deserved to die, didn't he? Didn't he, Regan?

[Dorothy Nolan]

Didn't he?

[Jeff Regan]

I don't know, lady. You knew him better. Well, it unwound like red thread in the Levi factory. Grace Nichols had been putting the shake on the Prince. He got tired of it and called me in and told me his phony story so he'd have a good self defense when he finally got around to shooting her some afternoon, he had Tim planted there to keep me from really seeing her. Oh, it was a nice idea, only I bounced Tim and got inside. Then Tim made a phone call and the lion jerked me before I had a chance to compare notes with her. I guess Tim went kind of crazy seeing how well we got along together and he figured Grace would do anything if she was wanted for murder. So he killed the Prince and made her the patsy with those fingerprints. She'd handled a gun before. But then I had my caller, Velma Carmen, the Prince's wife. She went kind of crazy too when she walked in and found him dead. It took three doctors a couple of weeks to tell her what really happened. When I told it all to the lion, he was mad at first. But then he saw Grace Nichols picture in the paper. He asked just one question, what was I doing at Grace's place all afternoon? I didn't even bother to answer him.

[Narrator]

Jack Webb is featured as Jeff Regan with Williams Herbert as Anthony J. Lyon. It's CBS same time next week for Hard Boiled Action and Mystery with Jeff Regan, Investigator written by E. Jack Newman, produced by Sterling Tracy. The role of Grace Nichols was played by Betty Lou Gerson. David Ellis was Tim Rogers, Lorene Tuttle was Velma Carman and Marvin Miller was Prince Carew. 29,000 nurses are needed to join the new Army Nurse Corps Officers Reserve. Four thousand of them, if they wish, may choose active duty. All nurses who receive reserve commissions will benefit from the opportunity for specialized training offered to them by the Army. The educational opportunities offered the nurse by the Army Medical Department will be of great advantage to her and her work. Don't wait if you're a registered graduate nurse between the ages of 21 and 45, drop a card now for complete information to the Adjutant General of Washington, D.C. original music for this program is by Dick around. Jeff Regan, Investigator is heard every Saturday at 9:30 over CBS. Bob Stevenson speaking. This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Velma Carmen]

This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. You chose to hit play on this podcast today. Smart choice. Make another smart choice with Auto quote Explorer to compare rates from multiple car insurance companies all at once. Try [e-mail] Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates not available in all states or situations. Prices vary based on how you buy.

[Prince Carew]

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