Johnny Dollar and WHItehall-1212

Summary

Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio) Episode: Johnny Dollar and Whitehall-1212
Release Date: August 6, 2025
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

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Introduction

Case Closed! takes listeners back to the golden age of radio with thrilling crime stories featuring cops, robbers, and private investigators. In this episode, Johnny Dollar, portrayed by John Lund, dives deep into a mysterious case involving an unexpected death claim and unravels a complex web of deceit and murder.

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The Case of Arnold Bernier's Mysterious Death

Initiation of the Investigation

At [00:10], Johnny Dollar receives a death claim of $75,000 from Arnold Bernier, a policyholder based in Cassis on the French Riviera. Upon learning that Bernier died from fishing spears driven through his back, Dollar exclaims:

"Don't you ever expect your policyholders to die with fishing spears driven through their backs?" [00:20]

This bizarre circumstance piques his interest, prompting him to embark on the investigation.

Encounter with Count Laszlo Andescu

Upon arriving in Cassis, Dollar meets Count Laszlo Andescu ([05:00]), who presents himself as a liaison for the bereaved but quickly becomes a suspect due to his evasive behavior and lack of concrete alibis. Dollar's intuition leads him to question the legitimacy of the death claim and Andescu's intentions.

Meeting the Widow: Magda Bernier

Dollar interviews Magda Bernier, the widow of Arnold Bernier, who exhibits an air of indifference towards her husband's untimely death:

"A beautiful day, is it not, monsieur?" [06:25]

As the conversation progresses, Dollar senses Magda's detachment and uncovers inconsistencies in her statements, hinting at a deeper conspiracy.

Uncovering Clues and Suspicions

Inspector Lanier provides Dollar with vital information about Bernier's favorite pastime—skin diving—which becomes a crucial clue. Bernier's body was found in an underwater grotto, suggesting foul play during one of his diving sessions. Dollar also learns about David North, an American scientist whose presence complicates the case.

At [10:43], Count Andescu manipulates the investigation by implicating David North, leading to a confrontation that reveals Andescu's true motives. During an underwater scene, Andescu attempts to eliminate Dollar and Inspector Lanier, showcasing his willingness to commit murder to protect his interests.

Final Confrontation and Resolution

In a climactic underwater showdown, Count Andescu's scheme unravels. As he attempts to dispose of evidence using acid, Dollar and Lanier manage to subdue him. Andescu confesses to multiple homicides, including that of Arnold Bernier, revealing a pattern of leveraging financial gains to eliminate obstacles.

"I didn't get enough money out of all folk to make it murder for profit. I'm crazy, I tell you." [56:37]

With Andescu arrested and the murder charges solidified, Dollar finalizes the case, ensuring the rightful settlement of the death claim and justice for Bernier.

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Interlude: Scotland Yard's Whitehall-1212 Case

Introduction by Chief Superintendent John Davidson

Transitioning from Johnny Dollar's narrative, the episode features Chief Superintendent John Davidson of Scotland Yard, who introduces Case Number 604Mr. 804—the disappearance and presumed murder of Mrs. Minerva Bannerman.

Investigative Procedures and Discoveries

The investigation reveals that Mrs. Bannerman was last seen leaving her hotel with Mr. Hughes, a young businessman. However, Hughes denies any involvement, leading to suspicions due to his dubious past, including convictions for theft and fraud.

"In criminal law, the phrase corpus delicti is from the Latin and means the body of the crime, not the body of the victim." [46:34]

Through meticulous detective work, including interrogations and forensic analysis, Superintendent Davidson uncovers critical evidence:

• False Identification: Mrs. Bannerman's appearance was misrepresented, leading to incorrect witness testimonies.
• Forensic Evidence: Acid was used to dispose of bodies, aligning with previous unsolved cases linked to Hughes.
• Final Arrest: Confronted with irrefutable evidence, Hughes confesses to multiple murders, including that of Mrs. Bannerman, accepting his fate with cold indifference.

"And I'll tell you what I did with them all. You saw all that acid when you were snooping in my factory." [56:00]

Conclusion of the Case

Hughes is convicted and sentenced to death, ensuring that the victims receive posthumous justice. Superintendent Davidson emphasizes the importance of learning from past cases to solve future mysteries.

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Closing Remarks

The episode brilliantly intertwines the cunning detective work of Johnny Dollar with the procedural precision of Scotland Yard, offering listeners a captivating blend of intrigue and resolution. Through sharp dialogues and intricate plot developments, Johnny Dollar and Whitehall-1212 exemplifies the essence of classic crime storytelling.

Notable Quotes:

• Johnny Dollar: "Don't you ever expect your policyholders to die with fishing spears driven through their backs?" [00:20]
• Magda Bernier: "A beautiful day, is it not, monsieur?" [06:25]
• Count Laszlo Andescu: "I'm crazy, I tell you." [56:37]
• Chief Superintendent John Davidson: "In criminal law, the phrase corpus delicti is from the Latin and means the body of the crime, not the body of the victim." [46:34]

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Final Notes

Case Closed! masterfully revisits old-time radio's charm, delivering suspenseful narratives that keep audiences engaged from start to finish. Whether you're a fan of private investigators like Johnny Dollar or the impeccable detectives of Scotland Yard, this episode promises an enthralling listen.

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Disclaimer: Portions of this summary are based on fictional content from an old-time radio episode and are intended for entertainment purposes only.

Transcript

[Johnny Dollar]

This is Case Closed Crime Stories from the golden age of Radio. For your listening enjoyment, John Lund as Johnny Dollar Philip Martin. Johnny, got your passport ready? Where to now? French Riviera. Town called Cassis. Just got a death claim from there on a policyholder by the name of Arnold Bernier. Something wrong with the claim policies for 75,000? It was written 33 years ago. Well, so what? Don't you ever expect your policyholders to die with fishing spears driven through their backs? I'll be ready in an hour. Hi, fellas. Care to join me in a quick look at the past? Okay, here goes. Back around 1890, Charles Dudley Warner, who was editor of the Hartford Courant, wrote in an editorial, everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it. Well, maybe no one did in 1890, but someone definitely has since then. Our United States weatherman, he's quite a busy gentleman who works for the Department of Commerce. His job is to read thermometers, barometers, anemometers and other assorted meters which forecast weather conditions so the rest of us will know what to plan or what not to plan, like hanging out the wash or going to a baseball game. Information about weather conditions is also given to aircraft pilots and ship captain so they can plan their flights or cruises accordingly. Of course, they need more than just weather data and the Commerce Department gives them what they need. For the pilots, the department issues aviation charts and maps and sees to it that air markers are laid out so that the pilots can find their way easily and safely. For the ship captains, the Commerce Department issues nautical charts and tide tables to indicate when and where it will be safe to navigate their ships. The department also inspects the ships to see that they're in perfect operating condition and issues licenses for the operating of the ships. So the next time you look up at the sky and wonder what kind of a day it's going to be, the thought might also cross your mind that many lives and valuable cargo carried by American planes and ships are depending on the United States weatherman, who is also looking at the sky. Expense accounts submitted by special investigator Johnny Dollar to home office, Washingtonian Life Insurance Company, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an accounting of expenditures during my investigation of the harpooned angler matter. Expense account item 1, 473.25. Airfare, railroad transportation and incidentals between Hartford and Cassis, France. Expense account item 2 50. Rental of a snappy 1937 Maybach Victoria. After an invigorating journey from the rental agency marred only by an engine breakdown in the blowout. I arrived at the office of the man who'd sent in the death claim on behalf of Arnold Bernier's widow. Welcome, welcome, my darling. Mr. Dollar, welcome to custody. Well, thank you. Are you Count Andescu? But of course, dear man. Count Laszlo Andescu at your service. You are here concerning poor, dear departed Arnold Bernier? Yes. What a ghastly thing to happen. So unfortunate, so sad. Oh, here one moment, in the next, poof. But why should we dwell upon unhappy things? You will give me the Insurance check for $75,000 made payable to Margaret. I will give you the receipt and we will have disposed of everything. No, not quite. Just what is your position in this picture, Count? Perfectly simple, darling Dollar. Count Largelandescu renders his most capable services to those who require assistance in delicate matters, financial and otherwise. For a slight consideration, of course, you might call me charge d' affaires for the bereaved and the unfortunate. I see. Now, what is this business about a fishing spear? Oh, yes. So inconsiderate of dear Unle to come to his end in so sordid a manner a fishing spear. So indelicate of poor Arnold. Well, at least it's unusual. You mind telling me how it happened? I thought you knew, my darling Dollar, dear Arnold was engaged in what had so unfortunately become Lisport of the Riviera. What's that? Oh, an insanity, my dear man. An incredible insanity which leads one to penetrate the very depths of the ocean clad only in swimming trunks and a cumbersome, unbecoming helmet of some kind. Are you talking about skin diving? Well, whatever term one chooses to call it, it is a most incredible, ungentlemanly sport. Okay, Arnold Bernay was skin diving then what? But my darling Dollar, it was all so sordid, but so simple. When he had been underwater for over an hour, somebo him, he was brought up to the surface and there he was, dead with a fishing spear on his back. Precisely not so. We have disposed of the matter of dear Arnold's past. Not if his beneficiary was responsible for having planted that spear. Oh, my dear Dollar, what a ghastly thing to say. Such a dear, sweet, lovable creature as Mark de Bernier couldn't possibly have been so indiscreet as to have done such a thing. No. Why not? This. This simply could not be. Would you think what would happen then to my remuneration for handling this affair? Yeah, poof. I left the good Count and drove down to the Bernier villa to pay my respects to the widow. Her establishment was located on a bluff overlooking the Gulf de Leon. The scenery was magnificent.

[Magda Bernier]

You are looking for me, monsieur? Dollars?

[Johnny Dollar]

If you're Mrs. Arnold Bernier, I am.

[Magda Bernier]

Sit down, please.

[Johnny Dollar]

Thanks.

[Magda Bernier]

A beautiful day, is it not, monsieur? The sun so warm, the soft breeze so gentle and caressing for the skin.

[Johnny Dollar]

You're a sun worshiper, Mrs. Brinion.

[Magda Bernier]

I worship all the things that I must do aspire in life. Oh, beautiful homes, luxurious furs, the delicate weight of perfectly matched pearl.

[Johnny Dollar]

You have expensive taste.

[Magda Bernier]

Why should I not have?

[Johnny Dollar]

No reason if you can afford them?

[Magda Bernier]

It only requires money, Monsieur. Th.

[Johnny Dollar]

Most people can't dismiss the word so easily. Most people are not.

[Magda Bernier]

Magda Vernier. Angus was an excellent provider.

[Johnny Dollar]

I was wondering when you were going to come around to him.

[Magda Bernier]

You think I should have mentioned my dead husband sooner?

[Johnny Dollar]

Sounds reasonable.

[Magda Bernier]

But why?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, you knew who I was when I arrived. That means Vandescu must have phoned you. So you know why I'm here.

[Magda Bernier]

That is quite true.

[Johnny Dollar]

And you still don't think the subject should have come up sooner?

[Magda Bernier]

Why should it? It is of no importance to me.

[Johnny Dollar]

What is it? Your husband's death or my investigation?

[Magda Bernier]

What?

[Johnny Dollar]

Your husband was murdered, Mrs. Bernier. Aren't you interested in determining who did it?

[Magda Bernier]

It would not give Arnold back his life.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, but it could affect yours if you were involved in it in some way.

[Magda Bernier]

Rather fantastic conception, Monsieur Thaler. If you must pursue this pointless investigation, I suggest you obtain all your future information from the Agen Police. Inspector Lanier.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, there's one thing I don't think he can tell me.

[Magda Bernier]

No, what?

[Johnny Dollar]

Is that how you really felt about your husband. Inspector Lanier proved to be a welcome relief from both Count Laszlo Andescu and the lovely cold blooded Magda Bernier. But he wasn't a great deal more enlightening. Yes, Mr. Dollar. Skin diving was a favorite pastime of Monsieur Bernier. He would often indulge in it hours at a time. He used some kind of aqua lung equipment, Inspector. A helmet and face mask equipped with compressed air. It enabled him to stay down underwater for approximately an hour at a time. Only this time he did not come up. Who discovered the body? Monsieur David Knop. Who is he? A young American scientist who is conducting underwater explorations along the Cassis coast near the small ship the Diana, from which he operates collecting marine specimens. He had reached a depth of some hundred feet and was about to return to the surface when he noticed a small grotto in one side of the bluff. Lying just inside the entrance was the body of M. Bernier with A fishing spear thrown, huh? Precisely. So sometime between 10:30 and noon, someone met Bernier underwater and killed him. Any idea who it could have been? At this time of year, the COVID is filled with underwater swimmers indulging in this latest craze of the Riviera. Yeah? And what about this spear itself? An ordinary fishing spear discharged from a compost air tube. Its counterpart may be found in hundreds of hands. Any personal suspects on your list? I'm afraid not. What about Magda Beignet? Certainly there was no financial motivation. As a $75,000 insurance policy, I assure you that means nothing. Bernier was an immensely wealthy man. What about business associates? He had been retired for 20 years. An attorney by the name of Armand Gautier in Marseille handles his affairs. We have checked. They are in perfect order. Any personal enemies? So far as we have been able to ascertain, none. Well, he obviously had one. Well, thanks for your time, Inspector, but Queer. I regret only that I could not have been of more immediate assistance, but if there is anything you wish to. Falcon. Oh, sure, go ahead. Inspector Laniel. One moment, please. It is for you, Mrs. Dollar. Oh, thanks. Hello. You Johnny Dollar, the insurance man? That's right. Who's this? My name's David North. I'd like to talk to you. What about? The murder of Arnold Bernier. What do you know about it?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Let's save that for our talk, okay?

[Johnny Dollar]

Where did we get together? There's a cafe in town, the Golden Pheasant. I'll meet you there. How soon? Oh, about a half hour. Who told you I'd be here? Andescu or Magda Bernier? Magda. Why should she have called you about that? Who else did you expect her to call? $? We're going to be married, aren't we? There were some half dozen sailors and roustabouts seated around the Golden Pheasant, but no sign of anyone who might be an American marine scientist by the name of David North. So I took over one of the tables, ordered a cognac to help pass the time, and waited. More than an hour had passed and north still hadn't turned up. I was about to call it quits when the place was enlivened by a new arrival. Ah, Dollar. A magnificent coincidence which just. Oh, Antoine. At once you will play. Yes. As I was saying, a simply magnificent coincidence. You do not mind, my darling Dollar, if I join you? You already have. So I have, yes. Which makes it all the more charming, does it not? Nassau, you are here. I am here. We may now conclude our affair of Business? You're talking about that insurance check. A trifling matter, I will confess, and somewhat boring. Nevertheless, it does concern money. And I dearly love money. It has so many uses, you know. What about the little matter of finding out who murdered Arnold Bernier? Oh, that. It is of no consequence now. Which is why I have sought you out here. Oh, that's interesting, no? You presented a problem to me. And what does the magnificent large Landescu do when he is faced with a problem? He solves it. You know who kill him. But of course. Who else could it be but that American, David North? So now you will give me the check. What makes you think it's nice? It is so obvious, my darling $not has supplied the proof himself by his suicide. Suicide? Oh, did I forget to inform you? How careless of me. But yes, they are fetching his body up from the bottom of the Gulf even now. When I got to the beach, about a dozen people were gathered around watching a rowboat heading toward the shore. There were three men, ab dressed in swimming trunks. One of whom I recognize is Inspector Laniel. Take him to Dr. Jere at once. Use my car at the pass at the edge of the beach. Now. Quickly, north, there is no time to lose. What happened, Inspector? Oh, apparently Monsieur north decided not to keep his appointment with you. Instead he went skin diving. And in approximately the same spot, all off the point where Arnold Bernier was found. Any idea why? None. When he had been down approximately 50 minutes, the members of his crew aboard the Diona became concerned. Two of them went diving for him. Where do they find him? In the same little underwater grotto where Arnold Bernier was found. As you saw, he was unconscious. Fortunately, his aqua lung was still working and so he had not drawn. But there was a bad scalp wound in his head and this was lying on the grotto floor beside him. Another fishing spear. Obviously he was attacked in the same manner as Bernier had been. Any chance that the wound was self inflicted? None. And in a way that is most unfortunate. Why is that? If it had been attempted suicide, the case might have been closed. I had just uncovered evidence which could have convinced the ME that David Kno had murdered Arnold Bernier. You know, many great men have attained the highest office in our land. The Presidency of the United States. Can you guess the name of this man? In 1770, as one of the leading lawyers in Massachusetts, he defended the British soldiers who fired on civilians during the so called Boston Massacre. His four years as president were perhaps the stormiest in our history as he fought to keep America out of a war with France, but an official war against France brought George Washington out of retirement as commander of the army and gave birth to the phrase millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute. If you don't have his name by now, here are two more clues. During his presidency, Washington became the national capital and the 11th amendment was adopted. Who was he? John Adams, second president of the United States. His life is part of your American heritage. And now, with our star, John Lund, we bring you the second act of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. We went back to Inspector Laniel's office. And while we waited for David north to regain consciousness, Lanyal told me about the new evidence. It was revealed in a court order. Monsieur Dollar, David North's ship was being attached for non payment of a debt he owed to Arnold Bernier. What debt was that? North had run out of funds in the port of Darien on the Red Sea, where he had been collecting specimens. And Destieux ran into him there, saw an opportunity to make a commission for himself and persuaded Arnold Bernier to lend north the funds. How much was involved? Some $2,000. Hardly enough for a man like Bernier to get so excited of us. True. But if you compound the money with North's coming here and then becoming friendly with the lovely Magda. Oh, you figured a two way motive then. By murdering Bernier, north saves his ship and gets the girl. Is it not logical, Monsieur Dolan? Well, it was before that little accident happened. Enough. But there is no need for us to concern ourselves with idle conjecture. When north recovers consciousness, he can himself inform us. Well, it might pay to conjecture about one thing meanwhile, Inspector. What is that, monsieur? The whereabouts of Magda Bernier. During the past couple of hours.

[Magda Bernier]

I had thought we had seen the last of each other, Monsieur. Daughter.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, it seems that you forgot a couple of pertinent things. Including David North.

[Magda Bernier]

Why should I have discussed him?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, how indifferent can you be about the man you're going to marry?

[Magda Bernier]

Did he tell you that?

[Johnny Dollar]

He did.

[Magda Bernier]

David is like a little child who tries to convince himself that the world of his dreams is the true world.

[Johnny Dollar]

And it's not?

[Magda Bernier]

No. David worships me. There is nothing he would not do for me in return for a kind word or a hint of a smile.

[Johnny Dollar]

Like committing murder?

[Magda Bernier]

Yes, I think he would even do that.

[Johnny Dollar]

And did he?

[Magda Bernier]

I do not have the faintest idea.

[Johnny Dollar]

Then there's nothing to his statement about marriage between you?

[Magda Bernier]

Nothing. Monsieur Butter.

[Johnny Dollar]

Do you mind telling me where you've been the past couple of hours?

[Magda Bernier]

Right here in Front of this fire, monsieur.

[Johnny Dollar]

Why, you haven't been swimming?

[Magda Bernier]

I seldom swim. And hear that.

[Johnny Dollar]

It was getting dark when I left the villain. I thought I'd better find out if north was well enough to tell his side of the story before I closed up shop for the night. Inspector Lanyard was just leaving Dr. Jarret's office as I drove up. Isn't it you, Monsieur Dolo? Yeah, that's right, Inspector. Well, did you learn anything from David North? No, monsieur, and we never will. He just died. Well, after that little announcement, there didn't seem to be much reason for me to hang around the town of Cassis that night. So I started out along the coast road toward Marseille. A little way out of town, a gleaming black chauffeur driven limousine swept by me. It was just time for me to catch a glimpse of a blonde head lolling back luxuriously against the rear seat cushion. Then it turned a bend in the road ahead and was gone. There were several intriguing possibilities as to why Magda Bernier would leave her fire and head for Marseille. I proceeded toward my destination in Marseille, the residence of one Armand Gautier, attorney, the man who'd been in charge of Arnold Bernier's affairs. Lee, My name is Dollar, Mr. Go, insurance investigator. I'd like to talk to you for a few minutes. I am not in the habit of conducting business at my home, Ms. Dollar. If you care to call my office in the morning, I am certain an appointment can be arranged. Mark de Bernier might be happier if we talk right now. I do not comprehend your reference, monsieur. Well, would it help any if I told you that she was number one on the list of suspects in the murders of her husband and David North? Come in, please. Thanks. This way, please. You realize, of course, Monsieur Dallas, that to suspect Madame Bernier of such crimes is sheer nonsense. Won't you sit down? Thank you. Well, if you want a list of possible motives, we could start with money. Ridiculous. Magda stood to gain nothing by the death of Arnold Bernier. No? Why not? At the time of their marriage, he gave her a tremendous independent fortune. One that even a Magda Bernier could not dissipate in a lifetime. And the balance of his estate is will to charitable institutions. Okay, then what about boredom? Hatred? You have met Madame Bernier, spoken with her? Yes. Then you must realize that a thoroughly hedonistic woman like Magda can never become bored, so long as she can surfeit herself with the luxuries of life. Well, there's still one other possibility. Marnier was some 30 years older than Magda and David north was a pretty rugged specimen of a young male animal. He was also stupid. A callow youth. One who might be temporarily amusing to a woman like Madalier, but one does not risk giving up a way of lifeless youth for the sake of temporary amusement. How true. Well, thanks for your time. I have convinced you, then? Well, let's say that I found out what I came here to learn. And what is that? The possibility of another man in Magda's life. But we have disposed of that, Monsieur. You should have disposed of Magda's perfume too. What? I couldn't miss it when I walked in here. And after your kind cooperation and character analysis, I couldn't be rude enough to accuse you of wearing it. I do not understand. Monsieur. Dala agreed that the desire for money makes an excellent motive for murder. But what is the connection between that and Arnold Bernier's hobby of skin diving? Inspector, send a diver down to take a closer look at that undersea grotto where he and north were killed, and I think you'll come up with the answer. Very well. $. I will have it done first thing in the morning. Now. Better do it right. Now. This should do it nicely. $huh? You sure you want to make the dive yourself? But why not? I fancy myself rather efficient. That they are. And if what you suspect is true, it might be best to keep it between the two of us. Okay. Is this the lantern you want to use? Yeah. Now, if you will help me with the helmet. The aqua long. Sure. Here. How's that? Well, they'll see. They'll be fine. I'll take your word for it. Laniel adjusted the rubber flippers on his feet, shrugged the helmet and aqua lung more comfortably on his back and shoulders, and then slipped over the side. 45 minutes is a long time to wait in an open boat at night when you know a man is swimming far below the surface in a spot where two other men had met death before him. And I knew it must seem even longer to Inspector Laniel. But finally he came to the surface. He held onto the gunnel of the boat with one hand and gave me a small wooden box for the other. A watertight wooden box marked Marine Specimen. I gave him a hand and pulled him into the boat. Then, as he started to take off the helmet, I turned to the box and opened it. The marine specimens consisted of some insignificant looking brownish weeds. I didn't have a chance to examine them more closely. It was just about then that I turned my head and noticed that the spear Gun was pointing at my back. How charming that we should meet again under such delightful circumstances, Is it not, my darling Dollar? Where's Laniel? For the third time, it was necessary for me to leave someone below at the entrance to the grotto. You have no idea how boring this procedure is. Becoming a fishing spear again. Oh, my darling Dollar, how unimaginative do you believe me to be? Particularly after I only succeeded in wounding dear Mr. North? No, no, no. The dear inspector is lying unconscious from a blow to the head. Soon his oxygen will run out and then poof. This spear I saved for you here where I cannot possibly miss. Oh, please don't bother. You know, you are magnificent, my darling Dollar. Incomparable. I had not thought it possible for you to connect me with this affair in so short a time. Yeah, your little drug smuggling act has run into a few obstacles. What a pity. Such a magnificent plan. Obtaining the Ashish for practically nothing in the Red Sea area with Arnold Berngay's money, transporting it here aboard David's ship, concealing it in the grotto to take it ashore when the time was ripe. A magnificent plan. Only Bernier put a crimp in it. Yes, and that was indeed a pity. Poor dear Arnold. But he came upon my underwater warehouse. No remorse about David North. Ah, how sentimental can one be, my darling Dollars. I suppose north was diving for one of those boxes to bring me the proof.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

When you take.

[Johnny Dollar]

Things happened pretty fast. Just about then the box hit Andescu in the chest. The spear missed me by slightly less than a hair. My fist hit Andescu's jaw and he hit the water. Oh, a jolly good time was had by all, including Inspector Laniel. I managed to raise some help from the shore and get a diver down to him before his oxygen ran out. Andescu wound up in the local jail where charges are being preferred against him now. Two counts of homicide, two of attempted homicide and a slight case of drug smuggling. I didn't see Magda Bernier again. I didn't think I could take any more of that. When you Honor the death claim, send the check care of Armand Gautier, Marseille. Expense account. Item $327.65. Hotel bill and miscellaneous. Item 4, $493. Planes, fare and incidentals back to Hartford. Expense account. Total $1043.90. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Stars John Lund in the title role and was written by Sydney Marshall with music by Eddie Dunstetter. Featured in tonight's cast were Howard culver, Larry Dobkin, Virginia Gregg Edgar Barrier and Lou Krugman. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar is produced and directed by Jaime Del Valle.

[Magda Bernier]

Whitehall 12.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

This is Scotland Y. For the first time in history, Scotland Yard opens its official files to bring you the authentic true stories of some of its most baffling cases. These are the true stories, the plain, unvarnished fact, just as they occurred, reenacted for you by an all British cast. Only the names of the participants have, for obvious reasons, been changed. The stories are presented with a full cooperation of Scotland Yard. Research on Whitehall 12 is from Percy Hoskins, chief crime reporter of the London Daily Express. The stories for radio are written and directed by Willis Cooper.

[Johnny Dollar]

Now you will hear the voice of.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Chief Superintendent John Davidson, curator of Scotland Yard's famous Black Museum. Chief Superintendent Davidson will brief you on Scotland yard case number 604Mr.

[Johnny Dollar]

804. Good afternoon. Here in the Black Museum at Scotland Yard, which is neither black nor is it a museum, are kept on file articles of various sorts which have in one way or another been connected with cases of criminal investigation that our people have worked on. We keep these articles not for their morbid interest as weapons that have committed murder, nor because they have been merely involved in various crimes of violence, but as exemplars of methods and means of commission. What has puzzled us on some long forgotten crime may one day be of assistance to us in solving another. Now, this is a typical example. Though you may not recognize it at once, I can tell you that it's what is left of the handle to a woman's purse, her handbag. It's made of a kind of plastic material similar to that of which artificial teeth are sometimes made. It survived an attempted destruction under most extraordinary conditions and was recognizable as the property of a particular person. Now here is Superintendent George Freeman of the CID who was in charge of the case in which it was involved. Number 604Mr. 804, George.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I should like to say first, John, that there are certain aspects of this case which I cannot bring myself to discuss in public.

[Johnny Dollar]

I am relieved to hear you say that, Superintendent.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

There was considerable reference to these things in the sensational press at the time. But I propose to omit all mention of them. I shall confine myself as far as possible to how we at Scotland Yard discovered the murderer and assisted in bringing him to justice.

[Johnny Dollar]

I couldn't agree with you more, John.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

There is, however, a happy ending to the story.

[Johnny Dollar]

A happy ending? Uh huh.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

He was hanged on an afternoon in 1949. Mrs. Minerva Bannerman, a well to do 68 year old widow walked out of the Kensington Hotel in which she lived. She was never seen again. WOMAN Police Sergeant Elsie Rice was assigned to investigate. I was present when she made her.

[Magda Bernier]

Report on inquiry at the hotel. I determined that the last person to have seen Mrs. Bannerman alive was a Mrs. Beatrice Miller, another resident of the hotel.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Did you speak to Mrs. Miller, Sergeant?

[Magda Bernier]

I interviewed her, yes, sir. Her conversation was as follows. According to her account. Mrs. Miller. Are you going shopping, Mrs. Bannerman? No, I'm going down to Crawley with Mr. Hughes.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Who's Mr. Hughes?

[Magda Bernier]

He's a young businessman, an engineer, according to Mrs. Miller, who sometimes shares a table at the hotel dining room with Bannerman.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Have you interviewed this use?

[Magda Bernier]

No, sir. He was not at the hotel and there wasn't anyone who knew his business address. I left a message saying I'd call on him this evening at eight, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Very well, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

Thank you, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I turned my attention to other matters of more pressing importance than a report on a missing woman. Sergeant Rice reported to me the next morning.

[Magda Bernier]

I interviewed that Mr. Hughes last night, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Hughes, Hughes, Hughes, Hughes. Oh, yes, yes. That missing woman.

[Magda Bernier]

Mrs. Minerva Bannerman, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

Uh huh.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Sit down, Todd.

[Magda Bernier]

Thank you, sir. He stated that he did not meet Mrs. Bannerman.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What, sir?

[Magda Bernier]

He agreed that he did have an engagement with her, sir. He was to drive her to Crawley where he had a small manufactory.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What for, did he say?

[Magda Bernier]

To look at some fingernails, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Some what?

[Magda Bernier]

Some sort of plastic, artificial fingernails he'd invented, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

By any chance was she going to invest money in this thing?

[Magda Bernier]

He said she was, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

But they didn't go there, you said.

[Magda Bernier]

That's what he said, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

When was this?

[Magda Bernier]

Two days ago, sir. On Wednesday.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I don't like that investing business, Sergeant. Artificial thinking of that. It's absurd, isn't it?

[Magda Bernier]

No, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Huh.

[Magda Bernier]

Some women wear them, sir. They come in different colours.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

You serious?

[Magda Bernier]

Yes, sir. Yes, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

But she didn't show up. Probably. Probably got suspicious. He's a suspicious looking chap, Sergeant. Artificial fingernails.

[Magda Bernier]

I didn't like him, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Woman's intuition.

[Magda Bernier]

No, sir. He's a little too smooth to suit me. Greasy, greasy hair, greasy face, revolting little black moustache. All right. I'm sorry, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I suspect the old girl got the same impression you had, Sergeant, and ran out clutching her investing money to her ample bosom.

[Magda Bernier]

She was a small, active woman, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

You got her description?

[Magda Bernier]

Yes, sir. Wearing a black Persian lamb coat, dark burgundy dress.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

A what dress?

[Magda Bernier]

Red, sir. Carrying a small handbag with a large plastic handle. Hair white, complexion ruddy. Wore full steed both upper and lower plates. Jewelry? A gold bracelet, at least four rings, two of which were set with large diamonds. An old fashioned watch with gold breastpin in a fleur de lis shape.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

All right, Sergeant, I'll take your word for it.

[Magda Bernier]

Yes, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I'm much more interested in this investment business. We'll find the old lady with such efficient people as you, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

Thank you, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

But this fellow Hughes, where's his factory? Crawley.

[Magda Bernier]

You said Crawley? Yes, sir. Near Horsham, sir. Between here and Brighton?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yep.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Superintendent Freeman here. I want the police station at Horsham. Telephone's a great invention. I keep thinking of that American cinema actor. What's his name? Ameche. Hello, Horsham Police Station? Sergeant Hodge. Superintendent Freedman, Scotland Yards. Sergeant. Oh, yes, sir. Look here. You know a chap named Hughes has a factory of some sort at Crawley. Now, I'm by sight, sir. Very dapper chap. Black hair, small black mustache. Like Hitler's. That's the one. A tiny shed. Hardly call it a factory, sir. On Leopold Road in Crawley? Yes, sir. Saw him just the other day, sir. When was that? Wednesday, sir. Two days ago. Are you sure of that sighting? Yes, sir. He was with an elderly lady, sir. A lady in a Persian lamb coat, I think it's called, sir. Here, give that description to Sergeant Rice. Yes, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

Yes, sir. Sergeant Rice here. Yes, I'm a sergeant. What? Persian lamb? Yes. Dark red dress? Yes. Red faced, white hair. Handbag with a big handle. Funny old fashioned watch.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Let's have the phone, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

Wait a sec. Yes, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Where did you see them, Sergeant? Walking down Leopold Road. Together, sir. Toward this factory of his. No mistake, Sergeant? No, sir, no mistake. Seen him since?

[Johnny Dollar]

No, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Send a man over to this factory right now and have him stay there till Hughes shows up. Yes. I want to see that man, Hughes at once. Pick him up and let me know when you've got him. Yes, sir. Well, Sergeant, I think you're right in not liking Mr. Hughes.

[Magda Bernier]

What's up, sir?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Well, for one thing he's a liar, and second, we'll see. CRO, please. Criminal Records Office. Srw.

[Magda Bernier]

How did that sergeant at Horsham know the description of Mrs. Bannerman's clothing, sir? Was she?

[Johnny Dollar]

Hello?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Who is this speaking? Oh, good morning, Murphy. Superintendent Freeman here. Look, you have anything on a man named Hughes? What's the rest of his name, Sergeant?

[Magda Bernier]

John George, Sir. Age? About 40.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

John George Hughes. At present of Crawley. About 40. Dark hair, mustache. How tall, sergeant?

[Magda Bernier]

About 5 foot 7 or 8, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

5Ft 7 or 8, the man, said to be an inventor of sorts, has a factory at Crawley in West Sussex. Could you check quickly for me, please?

[Johnny Dollar]

Good.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I'll be here in my office. Thank you. What were you saying, Sergeant West?

[Magda Bernier]

I was asking how that sergeant at Horsham knew about the clothing Mrs. Bannerman was wearing. Sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

He said. Oh, excuse me. Superintendent Freeman. Yes, Murphy.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What'S that number? 86522.

[Johnny Dollar]

Right.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Surrey Sizes, London Sessions in 1941.

[Johnny Dollar]

Or.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Just send the file round to me, will you? Oh, is there a photograph of him in the file?

[Johnny Dollar]

Good, good.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Thank you very much. You recognize him from the photograph, wouldn't you, Sergeant?

[Magda Bernier]

Oh, yes, sir. Sir, I was wondering.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Your Mrs. Bannerman was with Hughes at the factory Wednesday afternoon.

[Magda Bernier]

That's how that sergeant knew about her clothing then.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

That's right. You saw them together. So your Mr. Hughes is a liar. Now CRO has a file on Hughes. He got four years at Surrey Assizes in 1937 for obtaining money by false pretenses. He was sentenced to 21 months for theft at London sessions in 1941. So he's a thief and a cheat. Be interested to see if he can prove he's not a murderer, too. I sent people to the Kensington Hotel, where Hughes lived and which was also the home of the missing Minerva Bannerman. She had not returned. Hughes room on another floor had not been occupied. I again telephoned the police station at Horsham, which is four miles from the village of Crawley, where Hughes had his fingernail factory. He hadn't seen. He had not been seen at all. The door to the place was still padlocked. They told me Sergeant Rice came into my office.

[Magda Bernier]

Afternoon, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Where have you been, Sergeant?

[Magda Bernier]

Communications, sir. I worked up as complete a list as I could of the jewellery Mrs. Bannerman was wearing and had it sent out on the teletype.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

All police stations.

[Magda Bernier]

All stations, sir. Including Horsham.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Don't think you'll get very much from Horsham, sir.

[Magda Bernier]

Don't you think it'd be a good idea if I ran down to Horsham and had a look at that factory of Hughes?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What do you expect to find?

[Magda Bernier]

I might find Mrs. Bannerman, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Sergeant Rice. I've never told you what I think of women detective sergeants, have I?

[Magda Bernier]

No, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I think the rank of woman detective sergeant should be abolished.

[Magda Bernier]

Yes, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

And then I think they all ought to be promoted to chief Superintendents to remind the superintendents to keep their minds on their jobs. Come along. I'll go with you.

[Magda Bernier]

It was late afternoon when we Arrived at the dingy little factory in Crawley, 40 miles away. Sergeant Hodge from Horsham was waiting for us.

[Johnny Dollar]

Good evening, sir. Evening. Came straight over here when you telephone, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I let my men go for an early supper, sir. I'll leave them for a while. Let's have a look at the place, shall we?

[Johnny Dollar]

Come along.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

This way, sir.

[Magda Bernier]

Not very inviting, is it, Sergeant?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

No, Sergeant. Haven't seen him at all. No sign of him, sir. This is the door, sir. Padlocks, you see, sir.

[Magda Bernier]

The only door, Sergeant.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes, Sergeant.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Hate to smash that paddle, huh?

[Magda Bernier]

How about one of these windows?

[Johnny Dollar]

They're locked, Sergeant.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Only those two windows?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes, sir.

[Magda Bernier]

They're dusty. I can't see through them.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Careful leaning against that window, Sergeant.

[Johnny Dollar]

You'll break.

[Magda Bernier]

I did break it, didn't I?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Are you hurt, Sergeant Rice? Are you hurt? Elsie.

[Magda Bernier]

I broke a fingernail, I think.

[Johnny Dollar]

I told you not.

[Magda Bernier]

I'm just ok.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Clumsy? Certainly not.

[Magda Bernier]

Well, at least I can see through the window.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Don't cut yourself, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

There's something lying on the floor in there.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

See who it is.

[Magda Bernier]

Give me a boost through here, Sergeant.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

That's breaking and entering, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

That's going in pursuit of suspected felon, Sergeant, isn't it, sir?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Exactly.

[Magda Bernier]

Give us a boost, Sergeant.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Can you see who it is in there?

[Magda Bernier]

Not a body. Looked exactly like one, though.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What is it?

[Magda Bernier]

Seems to be some old clothes. Suit of rubber things. Trousers, coat.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Laboratory clothes, I expect.

[Magda Bernier]

Nobody in here, though. Don't see anybody. Floors hollow, though. Maybe something under there.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I'm coming in here, Sergeant. Hodge, give me a hand. Right, sir. That's good.

[Johnny Dollar]

Shall I come in, sir?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Come on. Right, sir. What's that stuff there in the corner?

[Magda Bernier]

Seems to be some kind of large glass bottle.

[Johnny Dollar]

They're carboys.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

That acid came inside it. I've seen them before, sir. Be careful that acid burns, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

I've no intention of taking a bath in it, Sergeant.

[Johnny Dollar]

The last bath you ever took, Sergeant.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Stop the back chat, both of you.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, I wasn't.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Yes.

[Magda Bernier]

Yes.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Well, I expect we'd better see what's under this floor, Hodge.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What's that you're falling over, sir? Stirrup pump, sir. Like the air raid chaps used to put out fires. This fellow Hughes in the ARP here, Hodge. Don't think so, sir.

[Magda Bernier]

Probably uses it to transfer the acid from these great bottles to some other.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Place, sir, I expect. Well, better get to taking up this floor. Any tools around here?

[Johnny Dollar]

There's a crowbar or summit over there.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

By the window, so that do get it. Where'll I start, sir. Here. I think this board's loosed. Let's get it up. Go on. Just what do you people think you're doing here? I know you, young woman. I know you are. Who are you, sir? I'm Superintendent Freeman of Scotland Yard. You are John George Hughes, I take it?

[Johnny Dollar]

I am.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

And I'm the bloody owner of this bloody place. I was rather expecting you, sir. As for you, Sergeant Royce, I'll tell you at once. Mrs. Bannerman is not here. You were with Mrs. Bannerman the last time she was alive, Mr. Hughes. Where, sir? Here in this town on Wednesday afternoon. I was not. You were seen and recognized. Well, I can only say that whoever.

[Johnny Dollar]

Says he saw me with her is mistaken.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I was in London. Are you mistaken, Sergeant Hodd?

[Johnny Dollar]

No, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I am not well, sir, I assure you Mrs. Bannerman is not.

[Magda Bernier]

Do you know where she is?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

You said she had vanished into thin air, Ms. Rice. Is that right?

[Magda Bernier]

I said she disappeared into thin air.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

You said somebody said maybe.

[Johnny Dollar]

I said.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Mr. Hughes, I should like you to come up to London with me.

[Johnny Dollar]

Why?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I should like to have your answers to a few questions about Mrs. Bannerman.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Well, all I can tell you about Mrs. Bannerman is that you'll not find her here or any other place, really. I should advise you to come to London and answer my questions, Mr. Hughes. Will you arrest me if I don't? Very probably. On what charge, Superintendent? Suspicion of murder? It's possible. How do you know Mrs. Bannerman was murdered if you can't find a body? You're quite a clever man, Mr. Hughes. And you won't find a bar immigrant man. There's no corpus delicti. I'm going to give you a short lesson, Mr. Hughes. In criminal law, the phrase corpus delicti is from the Latin and means the body of the crime, not the body of the victim of the crime at all. If it's proved that Mrs. Banner met her death through criminal agency and intent, that one simple fact will be the corpus delicti, whether we ever find Mrs. Bannerman's physical body or not. In that case, anyone remotely connected with the affair is quite likely to find himself in for an unpleasant time. I'll go to London with him. Such methods don't always work. They're on the very edge of legality. It's only in a court of law, in a trial, after a person has been duly charged with the commission of a crime, that he's required to answer any questions and then an under oath. But a prudent man or welcomes the opportunity to speak out. His refusal to do so is highly suspicious, Mr. John. George Hughes chose to answer freely. It was next morning at Scotland Yard. I asked him, among other things, how is it that the constables on duty at your factory did not see you enter the place, Mr. Hughes? Because I came there directly after my interview with your Ms. Rice. Before the constables were assigned to watch my factory. I suspected they'd have the police on me and I didn't want them mucking about in my factory in my absence. Then you'd been in that place at least two days without going out?

[Johnny Dollar]

Longer than that.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What were you doing? Various things. Keep him hidden, mostly. You still maintain that Mrs. Bannerman didn't come to your factory before this occasion? Yes, but she always left, Superintendent. But this time she didn't. She didn't come there this time. I told you. Excuse me. Superintendent Freeman here.

[Magda Bernier]

I've got the coat, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

Good.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Sergeant. Is it hers?

[Magda Bernier]

That Mrs. Beatrice Miller, sir, who first told me about Mrs. Bannerman, the last person who saw at the hotel. Remember? I know she identified it as Mrs. Bannerman's.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

We'll have to prove it, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

Mrs. Miller thinks she can do that, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Very well. Carry on. Mr. Hughes, I may as well tell you that a party of CID people are now at your factory in Leopold Road, Crawley, with a search warrant. Well, they won't find anything. They've already found something.

[Johnny Dollar]

Some of my personal property, I suppose.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

I know they haven't found Mrs. Bannon. They found a cleaner's ticket for a Persian lamp fur coat in your name. A friend of mine asked me to have it cleaned for a. What is her name? Mrs. Diana Thorpe. Where does she live? I don't know her address. She's gone to Dover to visit her sister. Sergeant Rice took the tickets and called for the coat. Oh, she has no business doing that. Coat has been identified as Mrs. Bannerman's coat. That's nonsense. I'm afraid not, Mr. Hughes. What else if they find at my place? What else would they find? More personal belongings? I. I'm not going to talk to you anymore. You're not required to answer any questions, Mr. Hughes. I've got a rest first. As you like, sir. You've tired me out with all these questions. I don't know what I'm saying. You may go whenever you wish, Mr. Hughes. We'll find you when we need you. Threatening me? I making a statement of fact now? If you wish to go, why don't you arrest me? If I can uncover enough evidence to justify It I shall. Who's that? Come in. Come in. Sergeant Hogg. You know Mr. Hughes, of course. Yes, sir. Mr. Sturm of Horseshoe. Superintendent Freeman, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

Good Morning, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Morning, Mr. Sturm. Come in. Thank you, sir. Mr. Hughes was just leaving. Well, I'll wait a minute. As you prefer, sir. Well, Mr. Sturm.

[Johnny Dollar]

Mr. Sturm is a pawn broker, sir, in Horsham.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

This is Mr. Hughes. Last time I saw him, his name was Whitaker. You're a liar. Please, Mr. Hu. And when did you see this gentleman last? When he bought this with me for 17 quid. How interesting. An antique breast watch fastened with a fleur de Lis clip.

[Johnny Dollar]

Exactly the same as the one described in the circular.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Sent out from Scotland Yard here as the property of Mrs. Minerva Banniman. What have you to say to that, Mr. Hughes? She was wearing it the day she was with him at Crawley. I saw it, sir. Mr. Hughes, I never saw it in my life. You walked it with me, Mr. Bloody well Whittaker Hughes. Oh, excuse me, sir. Or 17 quid of my money. I said. You're a liar. Be quiet, Hugh.

[Johnny Dollar]

I'll swear to it, Inspector.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Superintendent. I'll swear to it. Super. Jake Sturm. You're a liar. All I want is my money. Is Your name Jake, Mr. Sturm?

[Johnny Dollar]

Jacob Aloysius Sturm.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Yes, sir. You do remember Mr. Sturm, then, Mr. Hughes? He bloody well does. He does. Well, then, Sergeant Hodge, did you find anything else there at the factory? Would you like to go now, Mr. Hughes? What you find? Well, sir. What you find?

[Magda Bernier]

Tell him, Sergeant.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Found this, sir. What is it?

[Johnny Dollar]

Was it part of a handle?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

It looks like that's what it is. Excuse me, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

Off a lady's handbag.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

And it's all kind of melted, like. Heat wouldn't do that, sir. Acid would do it, wouldn't it, Mr. Hughes? Then that's what's happened to these two, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

See?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

False teeth I found in the same place, sir. Now, I wonder whose they are, Mr. Hughes. I don't know anything about them. I wish Sergeant Rice were here. Why, sir? I'd just like her to take them to Mrs. Vaneman's dentist, whose name she knows, and see if he can identify them. You see, Mr. Hughes, teeth can rarely be destroyed by anything. Fire. Acid. Who can that be, do you suppose? Come in.

[Magda Bernier]

Oh, excuse me, sir.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Come in, Sergeant Rice.

[Magda Bernier]

Oh, thank you, sir. Sergeant hodge. I saw Dr. Finch in the forensic laboratory as I came in. He asked me to give these things to you.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Thank you, Sergeant. What are they? What did the doctor say? They are, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

He said they're fragments of human bone. This one's from a bone of the foot. This one's probably part of a vertebrae. The others, I don't remember.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What's happened to them? They look. They were found in that spot behind the place at Crawley, sir, where I found the false teeth and the purse handle. They've all been partly destroyed by acid. Well, Mr. Hughes, it seems we do have a caucus to lift up. What are you going to do about it? Sergeant Rice is going to do it, Mr. Hughes. You found him first, Sergeant.

[Magda Bernier]

Go ahead, John. George Hughes, I arrest you on charge of willful murder. I warn you that anything you say will be taken down in writing and may be used in evidence.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

What do you find amusing, Hughes? I'm just thinking. All the trouble and expense everybody's going to be put to. And when it's all over, I'll be sent to a nice comfortable loony bin where I'll spend the rest of my life in comfort. I may venture to disagree with you, Hughes. Nobody in the world would believe a man in his right mind would do what I've done, Superintendent. You'd be mourned, Hughes. All right, I'll make sure they believe I'm crazy. Old Bannerman wasn't the first one I've dealt with this way. She was the fourth. And I didn't get enough money out of all folk to make it murder for profit. I'm crazy, I tell you. Crazy. Let the jury read that from your notes, Sergeant. Miss Nasty Rice. I just have the ex, Ms. Bannerman on the back of her scar, just like I did the others. A man and his wife and a young boy. And I didn't get 30 quid out.

[Magda Bernier]

Of the whole lot.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

And I'll tell you what I did with them all. You saw all that acid when you were snooping in my factory. But perhaps you can think of what happens to a human body when it's dumped into a 40 gallon VAT of it. Soup, that's all. Nasty yellow soup. And a few pieces of bone. And a set of false teeth on this handle that can be identified. And that Persian lamb coat that I sent out to have the bloodstains cleaned off it. And nothing left of them all except what was left in the acid when I poured it out. Think I won't be sent to Broadmoor.

[Magda Bernier]

Instead of the Angman?

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Oh, let me tell you what else I did after I'd killed each one before I shoved them in the acid bath. No, no, no. I will not allow you to hear that. If you're morbid enough to want to know what Hughes did with his victims before he placed them in the acid bath to dissolve, you'll have to write me a letter asking about it. I may reply. The jury believed the alienists who testified that John George Hughes was perfectly sane. They also believed his confession of horrible murder. The verdict was guilty. Was sentenced to death. His appeal was denied and he was hanged at Wandsworth 41 days after he had foully murdered his last victim. You have heard another in the series.

[Johnny Dollar]

Whitehall 12, compiled from the official files of Scotland Yard.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Research is by Percy Hoskins. Among those heard today were Horace Graham, Harvey Hayes, Joe Huntley Wright, Lester Fletcher, Guy Spoil and Gordon Stern. These stories for radio are written and directed by Willis COOPER.

[Johnny Dollar]

Throughout America, 3 billion young women and.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Girls of all races and creeds will join in the celebration of National YWCA Week, April 20 through April 26.

[Johnny Dollar]

To these young women, the blue triangle.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Symbol of the ywca. The symbol standing for body, mind and spirit, means enrichment of their lives and a goal to build toward the future.

[Johnny Dollar]

Through the ywca, young women gain friendships, gain confidence in themselves, take part in.

[Count Laszlo Andescu]

Worldwide fellowship and become informed citizens. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.