Marlowe and Murder By Experts

Summary

Case Closed! – October 15, 2025

Episode: "Marlowe and Murder By Experts"

Podcast by RelicRadio.com

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Overview

This episode of Case Closed! revives two memorable old-time radio crime dramas. First, the hard-boiled detective Philip Marlowe faces a deadly quest in "The Gold Cobra," featuring a high-stakes pursuit involving a priceless artifact, murder, and a real—and artificial—snake. The second half transitions into "Freeze a Crowd" from the series Murder By Experts, centering on a roadhouse piano player ensnared in a web of jealousy, deceit, and violence. Both stories encapsulate the drama, intrigue, and atmospheric tension of radio’s golden age, with energetic, noir-laden performances and memorable one-liners.

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Segment One: Philip Marlowe in "The Gold Cobra"

(Starts at 00:18, ends ~30:33)

Key Discussion Points & Plot

• Opening Warning:
  Marlowe voices the classic hard-boiled warning about crime’s ultimate futility:

  "Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gutter. The prison of the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn."
  (Philip Marlowe, 00:18)

• The Client and the Quest:
  Marlowe is hired by Roth Winkum, a frantic, ulcer-prone man with an odd Dickensian manner, to transport a suitcase—supposedly containing a priceless gold artifact—for a museum in Chicago.

  "We've got to get out of here. My very life may be in danger. And have you been seen with me, sir? Yours as well."
  (Roth Winkum, 03:05)

• The Gold Cobra:
  The artifact is revealed to be a ceremonial gold cobra from a vanished Indian kingdom:

  "A cobra. A snake, sir. Made of 250 separate links ... and each solid gold ... flexible like the real thing."
  (Roth Winkum, 04:25)

• Dangers & Enemies:
  Akbar, a menacing East Indian fanatic, pursues the artifact, believing it rightfully belongs to his ancestors' temple.

  "He has no claim morally or legally. He's merely a fanatic."
  (Roth Winkum, 05:20)

• Chases and Double-Crosses:
  Marlowe is drawn into a web of rival claimants, car chases, and red herrings—including a fiery redhead, Abigail Seaburn, who holds Marlowe up at gunpoint and steals the suitcase (08:39).

• Deadly Deceptions:
  At Mordecai Zif’s exotic home, Marlowe finds Zif murdered. Accusations fly, and the true value of the suitcase comes into deadly focus:

  "How could I even think of it? You only stick up people in alleys, steal cars, walk off with gold lucky pieces worth 20 grand or better."
  (Philip Marlowe, 13:44)

• Life-Threatening Suspense:
  A tense scene erupts when a real cobra emerges from the suitcase, plunging the room into darkness and terror (15:27–18:16). Marlowe helps Abigail stay calm:

  "Start talking. Don't stop. Talk softly."
  (Philip Marlowe, 16:23)

• Plot Unraveling:
  Secret alliances and betrayals are exposed. Winkum, revealed as Zif's criminal partner, tries to claim the gold for himself, only to be fatally bitten by the cobra (21:05–23:23).

• Resolution:
  Snake expert Otis Crumpler contains the cobra in a show-stopping scene:

  "That's the way. Into the sack, Birdie. Little more. Now put your head in like a good girl... Now we've got you safe and sound."
  (Otis Crumpler, 24:30–24:43)

• Final Words:
  Over coffee, Marlowe and Abigail reflect on the "snake playing Cupid," with a touch of hard-boiled longing and humor:

  "You know, there are many things that can lead to romance. Usually it's moonlight, sometimes it's a bit of a song. But whoever heard of a snake playing Cupid?"
  (Philip Marlowe, 27:13)

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Marlowe’s noir tone:

  "Get this and get it straight. Crime is a sucker's road…" (00:18)

• The double-cross revelation:

  "Not exactly. That part was a small lie. Mordecai Sif was my partner." (Roth Winkum, 21:31)

• Cobra crisis:

  "Look out, Milo. It's Ray and the cobra…" (Abigail Seaburn, 14:14)
  "Stand still, baby. Freeze. Don't move a muscle." (Philip Marlowe, 16:05)

• Snake capture:

  "Now we've got you safe and sound… Crumpler’s the name. Otis Crumpler. Snakes are my business." (Otis Crumpler, 24:49–24:55)

• Wry closing:

  "There was a snake in the Garden of Eden. Yeah. But come to think of it, he kicked up quite a fuss." (Philip Marlowe, 27:13)

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[Transition to Segment Two]

"Murder By Experts" with Brett Halliday
(Begins ~30:33)

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Segment Two: "Freeze a Crowd" from Murder By Experts

(Starts ~30:33, ends 59:40)

Key Discussion Points & Plot

• Murder By Experts Context:
  Introduced by Brett Halliday, creator of Michael Shane, the episode "Freeze a Crowd" is selected by mystery expert Lenore Glenn Offord.

  "Our guest expert ... has chosen a tense and dramatic tale of a man who found himself enmeshed in a web of jealousy and violence with an ending he didn't foresee."
  (Brett Halliday, 31:09)

• Roadhouse Drama:
  Dick Starr, a piano player, arrives at the Hedgehog Inn for a summer gig, greeted with suspicion and local intrigue.

• Warning Signs:
  The cook, Gus, warns Dick about the boss's beautiful, troubled wife, Alice Hedges:

  "Stay away from her. Far away." (Gus, 33:43)

• Toxic Marriage:
  John Hedges, consumed with jealousy, threatens Dick:

  "Stay away from my wife … The next man she makes a play for is gonna get it." (John Hedges, 35:39)

• Alice's Plight:
  Dick sees Alice as misunderstood and trapped:

  "You look like a nice girl to me, Mrs. Hedges. Very nice girl." (Dick Starr, 39:08)

• Plans, Secrets, and Friendship:
  Alice and Dick become confidants. Alice pleads with Dick to keep distance to protect his job, but they cannot help but grow close.

• Illegal Gambling Angle:
  Dick reports the Hedgehog Inn’s illegal gambling to the police, hoping to free Alice from John by getting him arrested.

• Clandestine Love:
  Dick and Alice meet secretly on the boat dock, confessing their love (49:11–50:43):

  "She loved you just as you loved her." (Dick Starr, 49:26)

• Violent Confrontation:
  John appears, pulls a knife on Dick, and is killed in the ensuing fight—ostensibly self-defense (50:44–51:31).

• Desperate Cover-up:

  "Hide him, get him out of sight. ... His car. It's parked at the end of the dock." (Alice Hedges, 52:24–52:33)
  The pair hides John’s body in the car’s luggage compartment. Police arrive to bust the gambling operation, and Dick narrowly escapes with the car but crashes.

• Twist Ending:
  Dick wakes in the hospital. Gus delivers shocking news:

  "She framed that fight with Hedges… She set you and them other piano players up as decoys… but all the time it was Slade she was after." (Gus, 57:47)
  Alice manipulated both men. She leaves to marry Andy Slade, revealing Dick as her latest pawn.

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Jealousy’s stain:

  "Why would he want to do that? ... Don't trust her, that's why." (Gus and Dick Starr, 33:36)

• Alice’s fatalism:

  "See that lake out there?... Someday that's where I'm going. That's one place he won't follow." (Alice Hedges, 39:39)

• Fatal love:

  "Don't worry, Alice. I'll get you out of this. I'll think of a way. Don't worry, baby." (Dick Starr, 45:35)

• Ironic closure:

  "You still got her on your mind, eh? ... She went away to get married. Yeah, to Andy Slade." (Gus, 57:38–58:16)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:18 – Marlowe's hard-boiled opening
• 03:05 – Roth Winkum flees with Marlowe, fearing for their lives
• 04:25 – The gold cobra is described
• 08:39 – Abigail Seaburn (the redhead) holds Marlowe up with a pistol
• 13:36 – Marlowe encounters a murder at Zif's mansion
• 15:27 – The live cobra springs from the suitcase; room plunged into darkness
• 21:31 – Winkum reveals partnership with Zif and murderous intent
• 24:43 – Snake expert Otis Crumpler captures the cobra
• 27:13 – Marlowe and Abigail’s closing romantic interplay

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• 31:09 – Brett Halliday introduces "Freeze a Crowd"
• 33:43 – Gus warns Dick about Alice Hedges
• 35:39 – John Hedges threatens Dick
• 39:39 – Alice’s despair about her marriage
• 49:11 – Secret meeting at the dock; love's confession
• 50:44 – Showdown: Hedges attacks Dick, who kills him in self-defense
• 52:24 – Alice persuades Dick to hide the body
• 57:47 – Gus reveals Alice’s true scheme; Slade wins her
• 59:06 – Episode and story wrap

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Final Thoughts & Takeaways

Both radio dramas combine suspenseful storytelling, snappy dialogue, and noir ambiance, built on the classic formulas of betrayal, deception, and the moral ambiguities of love and justice. Philip Marlowe’s adventure illustrates deadly greed over a golden artifact, culminating with poetic justice via a cobra’s bite. Freeze a Crowd pivots from romantic rescue to bleak manipulation, with a protagonist left nursing his wounds—both physical and emotional—after a woman’s schemes.

Listeners are treated to top-notch storytelling with quick pacing, evocative characterizations, and settings that bring to life the shadowy world of classic detective radio.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is case closed crime stories from.

[Dick Starr]

The golden age of radio.

[Philip Marlowe]

Get this and get it straight. Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gutter. The prison of the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn.

[Commercial Announcer]

Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. The refreshing, delicious treat that gives you chewing enjoyment presents for your listening enjoyment Raymond Chandler's most famous character in the Adventures of Philip Marlowe. To make every day more enjoyable, treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. Here's a taste treat you can enjoy indoors, outdoors, at work or at play. The cool, long lasting mint flavor refreshes you. The smooth, steady chewing helps keep you fresh and alert. Adds enjoyment to whatever you're doing. Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. Healthful, refreshing, delicious. Now with Gerald Moore starred as Philip Marlowe. The makers of Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum are glad to bring you tonight's exciting story. The Gold Cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

My mom done told me.

[Roth Winkum]

Get it before, it's history. Hi, Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hiya, kid.

[Roth Winkum]

Get up while it's hot. Take a seventh place clothing wall.

[Commercial Announcer]

Hey, mister, could you please help a blind man? Could you let me have a buck.

[Philip Marlowe]

For my first square meal in a week? You mean your first shot in an hour, don't you?

[Roth Winkum]

Jake?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, Mr. Marlow. Hi. How are you?

[Commercial Announcer]

Sorry, I didn't recognize you. Must be these dark cheetahs.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, must be. How's business, Jake?

[Commercial Announcer]

Oh, I seen better. You too, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, sure.

[Commercial Announcer]

You're just standing around here in front of your office for the fresh air, maybe?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, I. Oh, no, don't tell me.

[Roth Winkum]

That ain't it.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I got it.

[Roth Winkum]

You're making a rendezvous, A secret meeting, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, Jake. I'm just waiting for something.

[Roth Winkum]

Holy catfish.

[Philip Marlowe]

Look at that jerk out in the middle of traffic. The guy with the suitcase getting out.

[Commercial Announcer]

Of that cab right in the middle of the street. Hey, he's coming this way.

[Philip Marlowe]

And he acts like the guy I'm waiting for, suitcase and all. Here, Jake. Here's a starter on that meal. I'll see you. Goodbye. I got you.

[Commercial Announcer]

How long, Mr. Marlowe? Thanks a million.

[Roth Winkum]

Sir. Tell me quickly. You're Mr. Marlowe. Philip Manham.

[Philip Marlowe]

That's right. You're Roth Wingman, correct, Mr. Mallow?

[Roth Winkum]

Is your car nearby?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, right over there.

[Roth Winkum]

Good. Come, Mr. Marlowe. We've got to get out of here. My very life may be in danger. And have you been seen with me, sir? Yours as well. Quickly, Mr. Barrel. We must be off.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah. Well, this way, Mr. Winkum. My new client was right out of Charles Dickens, but I bit my lip and tried to play it straight. We piled into my car and took off. Mr. Wickham, is how lies glued to the rear window, watched and worried hard about whether we were being followed. But finally he was convinced that we were safe. He relaxed his grip on the suitcase and fumbled for a cigarette. Ross wyncom was maybe 50 and had a large bald head on a small, well dressed body that just couldn't sit still. Also, it was at least three to one the gentleman had ulcers. He was the type.

[Roth Winkum]

Keep driving, please, Mr. Barlow. And do watch the rearview mirror.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Okay.

[Roth Winkum]

Now, sir, what exactly did I say to you on the telephone?

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, you wanted me to fly to Chicago tonight with a suitcase that contained an item worth 20,000 bucks which was earmarked for some museum, right?

[Roth Winkum]

Oh, yes, the Ashwell Museum.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. And you said something about an eccentric here in LA who owned the item. That's about all I caught. That and the fact that you were very worried.

[Roth Winkum]

And I still am. Now, first, Mr. Marlow, a word about the man whose.

[Philip Marlowe]

First, Mr. Winkam, a word or two about the item itself, huh? You know, I can't afford to play carry a pigeon without so much as a peak. It's too much like bleeding with my chin. Now, what is it?

[Roth Winkum]

A gold cobra.

[Narrator/Announcer]

A gold what?

[Roth Winkum]

A cobra. A snake, sir. Made of 250 separate links, each some 2 inches in diameter, and each solid gold Links, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

That makes the snake flexible like the real thing. Is that it?

[Roth Winkum]

Precisely. And the cobra's hood, Mr. Motto, is spangled.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh.

[Roth Winkum]

Originally, the object was a ceremonial piece that comes from India, from a kingdom that no longer exists. Mordecai Zif bought it there several years ago.

[Philip Marlowe]

Mordecai Zif, huh? Yes, he's the eccentric who lives here in la.

[Roth Winkum]

But perhaps intellectual is more the proper term. He lives near here in the Hollywood Hills, and he is the one who is presenting the Cobra to the museum.

[Philip Marlowe]

I see. Well, tell me, what's your connection?

[Roth Winkum]

Mr. Wickham, I am a friend. Mr. Mallow. Mordecai and I studied together in Europe many years ago.

[Philip Marlowe]

Really?

[Roth Winkum]

We have remained fast companions through the years, and now that his health is failing, he is a man of 60. I wish very strongly to repay his kindnesses, but I need your help to do it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Well, that brings us to the party following you. Who's that?

[Roth Winkum]

A creature named Akbar, Mr. Yes, he's an East Indian, and he Wants the Cobra badly. That's all I know of him. Except, sir, that he has no claim morally or legally. He's merely a fanatic.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, well, that's not to be sneered at. It's a full time job. Tell me, what does this Akbar look like?

[Roth Winkum]

Well, he's thin, he's dark skinned, dark hair, vicious, cold eyes. You'll have to be on the other, Mr. Barlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Behind us, sir.

[Roth Winkum]

That taxi cab. We're being followed. Drive. Drive. Sir.

[Philip Marlowe]

You see who it is?

[Roth Winkum]

No, but it could be Akbar. Try to lose him.

[Philip Marlowe]

That's exactly what I'm trying to do. The Cobra's in the suitcase here, right?

[Roth Winkum]

No, this suitcase is empty. The gold Cobra is in a similar bag that has been checked at the Beechwood Plaza hotel. Turn again, Mr. Mallow. The cab is getting right now, sir. This envelope contains the claim check for the bag as well as your airline ticket to Chicago. Also, there's a hundred dollar bill included and you'll get when we meet tomorrow night in Chicago. I'll look for you at the Dearborn street station at 8 o'.

[Philip Marlowe]

Clock.

[Roth Winkum]

He's still with us, Mr. Barlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

And that's a red light ahead. We can't slip through.

[Roth Winkum]

Then it's time for me to go. And time for Agbar to follow me. Me and the empty bag.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Good luck, Mr. Mallow.

[Roth Winkum]

I'm counting on you, sir.

[Philip Marlowe]

By the time the light had changed, the spry Roth Winkam had already made it to the sidewalk, the empty suitcase concealed conspicuously in hand. And when my rear view mirror showed the cab had given up the chase, I figured the quantity known as Akbar had taken the bait and followed Winkum. All of which made my next stop the check room at the Beachwood Plaza Hotel.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Yes, sir. What'll it.

[Alice Hedges]

Well, hello.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Can I be of some assistance?

[Alice Hedges]

Maybe.

[Philip Marlowe]

I wouldn't be surprised, but at the moment I just want my suitcase here. Honey, it's a black bag.

[Alice Hedges]

A black bag?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah.

[Alice Hedges]

Oh, here we are. Number four five eleven. Number four five comes out even. Must be yours, all right.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, it must be. Thanks, baby. Here, small talking of my appreciate.

[Alice Hedges]

Yo, what's Maddie, handsome? Your wife just walked in.

[Philip Marlowe]

No wife, just trouble. Goodbye, princess. My first glance at the man standing in the hotel entrance was almost enough. A lot of people could have jet black, unruly hair on top of a flyweight build, but very few people had that kind of wild, sparkling eyes. They were reserved for fanatics named Akbar. When he spotted me and started coming in a hurry, it was time for me and the suitcase to head for the nearest exit, I took a side door just beyond the check room, and from there ran the length of the narrow, twisting corridor that led to the rear of the hotel and out to the alley where I parked my car. There I ducked behind a pile of trash cans, slipped my hand over the.38 in my shoulder holster and waited. But after a full minute went by, I figured that it was safe to go to my car. And it would have been if the striking redhead crouched on the seat inside hadn't been holding an oh so striking pistol just made for ladies.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Don't bother getting in the car, Mr. Marlowe. In fact, don't do anything but hand over that suitcase here on the seat.

[Philip Marlowe]

Your mind's made up, huh?

[Abigail Seaburn]

Definitely. And keep your hands at your sides. Now, let me have those keys you're holding. Come on, toss them here. Now turn around. Thank you. I'm glad you're cooperative.

[Philip Marlowe]

Don't mention it. It's your winning smile.

[Roth Winkum]

Anything else?

[Abigail Seaburn]

Yes. Walk in the direction you're facing. Go on.

[Philip Marlowe]

Walk it is, baby. But first, tell me, who do I see for my car?

[Abigail Seaburn]

Don't worry. It'll be returned safe and sound.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. What about the suitcase? It's got all the clothes I have in it.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Oh, sure. You look so fetching in gold Cobra, don't you?

[Dick Starr]

Good night, Mr. Marlowe.

[Philip Marlowe]

The shock of fire red hair gunned my car the length of the alley and then swerved on two wheels into the busy street beyond and was gone. I followed to the end of the alley and started walking toward the hotel. And I saw something else. It was Akbar running toward a hack stand. He had also seen my car disappear, and that obviously meant that he wanted the first cabin line to take him someplace in a hurry. But the driver was waiting for a fare, which forced him to the only other cab in line and almost gave me time to get to it. Almost, but not quite. That left only an outside chance that Akbar had tossed an address to the driver before he knew that the cab was taken. Yeah, but it was an outside chance that paid off.

[Roth Winkum]

Yeah, sure, he.

[Philip Marlowe]

Gimme your address, pal.

[Commercial Announcer]

You know, I had the flag down. I got an old doll inside.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, Listen, friend, this counts. What was that address? Come on, the right answer's worth 10 to you. I saw the same. Here. Here. All right, what was it? Let me think, pal. Now, hold on.

[Dick Starr]

Come on, I got it.

[Commercial Announcer]

Outpost road number 818, I think.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, 818. Outpost Road. 818, Hollywood Hills. Huh?

[Commercial Announcer]

Someone up there?

[Philip Marlowe]

You know, pal, it could be. Get moving. 818 Outpost Road. Pal, I already told you. I already heard you. There's another 10 in it. And let's forget the old doll. Come on, bust a roll. Well, pal, a corner mansion there is. 800.

[Commercial Announcer]

Oh, so this next job must be. It looks like the Taj Mahal joint.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, that plus enough grounds to build a ballpark, grandstand included. I'll get out here, take the driveway on foot.

[Commercial Announcer]

Okay, pal, whatever you say. You want me to wait?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, you better. No, no. I think I see my own car up there. Here's the 10. Thanks.

[Commercial Announcer]

Okay, pal, so long.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hey, give my love to the Roger, huh? Brother? Want a backdrop for a harem? 50 beautiful girls. 50.

[Roth Winkum]

Kindly stand just where you are. This rifle is loaded and the safety not on.

[Philip Marlowe]

It was hard to believe at the top, a genuine African pith helmet. And under that, a pudgy, cherubic, smiling face with red roses for cheeks and dimples an inch deep and the rest fit too. A round little body dressed in a khaki shirt, riding britches and polished leather boots. Happy of the seven dwarfs and jungle. Get up there. The individual is amended because like everybody else I'd met tonight, his interest was in the COBRA exclusively.

[Roth Winkum]

Now, Mr. Whoever you are, where is that snake?

[Philip Marlowe]

Have you tried the grass? I understand snakes love it.

[Roth Winkum]

This is not the time to jest. There's nothing funny about that cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not unless 20,000 bucks happen to tickle your funny bone.

[Roth Winkum]

For the last time, where is the cobra?

[Commercial Announcer]

The truth.

[Philip Marlowe]

Okay, the truth. Frankly, my friend, I haven't the slightest idea. Honest, I haven't had me folded up on one punch. Like it was built on hinges, I headed for the Taj Mahal on a run. When I was past my car and had gone the slippery length of a tiled porch that led to a pair of half open etched glass doors, I slowed to a walk at the sight of a single light that came from a beaded lamp in a room inside and I came to a full stop. The room was about the size of a basketball court with plush decor that was strictly Far East. An elderly man wearing a bright yellow satin robe and also bright yellow satin turban was stretched out, glassy eyes staring at the ceiling, the front of his robe an ugly blood stained. Beside him was the lady with the red hair and next to her, the suitcase that wouldn't stay put. It was a good time for me and my.38 to announce ourselves. Well, this certainly outclasses the alley, doesn't it, Red? And now it's your turn to keep your hands at your sides.

[Abigail Seaburn]

What do you want here?

[Alice Hedges]

Marlow?

[Philip Marlowe]

Did you kill him?

[Abigail Seaburn]

No.

[Alice Hedges]

Oh, no, I didn't.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Believe me, I didn't.

[Alice Hedges]

I hated Mordecai.

[Roth Winkum]

As if. But I wouldn't do this.

[Philip Marlowe]

No, of course not. How could I even think of it? You only stick up people in alleys, steal cars, walk off with gold. Lucky pieces worth 20 grand or better.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Marlow, I didn't do this. My gun hasn't even been fired.

[Philip Marlowe]

Here, look. Don't try it, Red. I'll look when I'm ready. First I want to make sure the gold cobra is still intact.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Of course it is. I never let it out of my hand.

[Philip Marlowe]

We'll see. Stay right where you are, baby.

[Alice Hedges]

No move.

[Philip Marlowe]

I can unlock this with one hand and cover you with the other.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Okay.

[Philip Marlowe]

Now we'll know if the cobras. Look.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Look out, Milo. It's Ray and the cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

Steady. Steady, Red.

[Roth Winkum]

Don't move.

[Abigail Seaburn]

No.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, baby, you shouldn't have killed the lights. That makes the next move. The cobras. My gun's worth.

[Commercial Announcer]

To make every day more enjoyable, Treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. The lively, full bodied, real mint flavor cools your mouth, moistens your throat, freshens your taste. And the chewing itself gives you a little lift, helps you keep going at your best. So for real chewing enjoyment, that's refreshing and long lasting, always keep Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum handy. Healthful, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Gum will make every day more enjoyable. Now with our star, Gerald Moore, the second act of Philip Marlowe and tonight's exciting story, the Gold Cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

We got one good look at a live cobra rearing up out of the suitcase, its hood distended, flicking its glossy, forked tongue before the only lamp in the room shattered on the floor in a blue flash and total darkness surged in. For an endless moment, there was silence, as soft and thick as black velvet. Then we heard it. The snake was moving. We listened to it crawl slowly out of the suitcase, ease itself across the table and slither to the floor.

[Roth Winkum]

Marlo.

[Alice Hedges]

Marlo.

[Abigail Seaburn]

It's coming toward us.

[Philip Marlowe]

Stand still, baby. Freeze. Don't move a muscle.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I. I can't do it, Marlon.

[Philip Marlowe]

Only chance. Do you hear me? No matter what happens, don't move.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Marlo, I'm getting dizzy. I'm afraid I'm going to pass.

[Philip Marlowe]

No, baby, hang on. Hang on. I tell you all. Red, listen to me. Listen to me.

[Dick Starr]

Talk.

[Philip Marlowe]

Start talking. Don't stop. Talk softly.

[Alice Hedges]

I I.

[Dick Starr]

Who are you?

[Philip Marlowe]

Read. Tell me, what's your Real name? Tell me. Tell me.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Abby. Abigail Seaburn.

[Philip Marlowe]

All right, who killed Ziff, Abby? Who was it? Come on, answer me. Answer me. Keep talking.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I don't know, Marlo. I. I told you the truth.

[Philip Marlowe]

Why did you come here to Zip's place?

[Abigail Seaburn]

He swindled my Aunt Marcel out of all her money before she died.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Money that was supposed to come to me.

[Philip Marlowe]

Swindle her how?

[Abigail Seaburn]

He was a mentalist. Yeah, fake mind reader and fortune teller. He told her lies that made her keep giving him money until there was nothing left.

[Philip Marlowe]

He had a girl. Keep it up, baby.

[Dick Starr]

Keep it up.

[Philip Marlowe]

Why did you take that suitcase away from me at the hotel? Answer me, Abby. Think. Come on.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I spied on Zip. I found out about the gold Cobra.

[Dick Starr]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I knew if. If I once cut my hands on it, I could force Zip to return the money. He tricked my and out.

[Philip Marlowe]

Keep talking, Marlo.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I can't. I can't stand it that often.

[Roth Winkum]

Quiet.

[Philip Marlowe]

Quiet.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Listen.

[Alice Hedges]

There's someone in here.

[Dick Starr]

Yeah, who's there?

[Philip Marlowe]

Who is it? He made it out the door.

[Abigail Seaburn]

The cobra struck at him.

[Dick Starr]

Marshall.

[Philip Marlowe]

Sounded like it was clear across the room from us. Now, look.

[Dick Starr]

Abby.

[Philip Marlowe]

Abby, stay where you are. Don't move. I'm gonna see if I can find a light switch on the wall behind. Stand real still, Abby. You hear anything?

[Abigail Seaburn]

No. Hurry, Marlo.

[Philip Marlowe]

Please believe me, baby. I am. Gotta be a switch here someplace. There's gotta be a switch. Yeah, here it is.

[Alice Hedges]

Thank heaven.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Light again.

[Philip Marlowe]

Where's that cobra?

[Abigail Seaburn]

I don't see it.

[Alice Hedges]

Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

We'd better spot it. That thing's loaded with sudden death.

[Abigail Seaburn]

But it's not here. I tell you, it's gone, Marlowe.

[Dick Starr]

It's gone.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, I guess you're right for the time being. But in case it comes back, you better keep that gun handy.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Where are you going?

[Philip Marlowe]

After the guy who beat it through that door. Right now, it pays to be ahead of the game. But not too far ahead, Abby. Do you understand?

[Abigail Seaburn]

Yes. At this point, mister, I'll do anything you say.

[Philip Marlowe]

All right, then wait here for me and keep your eyes open wide. This Cobra is not the only killer loose in this joint. The door opened into a long passageway that offered as much chance to duck for cover as the inside of a loaded cannon barrel. And it was so narrow that if the cobra had found its way out there, it would be within kissing distance when we passed. The hair on my neck remained at rigid attention while I edged along the hall toward a dim light at the end. That came from a Heavily draped green waiting room in the center, facing halfway from me, was Akbar, the tousel haired East Indian. His face was even grayer than before, and his hand trembled as he mopped his glistening forehead with a silk handkerchief. When I stepped in, he saw me from the corner of his eye. His face went stony. Only his right hand moved. It dived under his jacket for a weapon. But I brought my gun down hard on the point of his shoulder. John went limp, and a knife as wicked as the back end of a scorpion bounced across the floor.

[Roth Winkum]

The dog. You'll pay for this interference.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not on the installment plan, buster. We're gonna settle up right now. How come the live cobra in the suitcase? You're so anxious about a fiendish trick and in the dark it almost caught you, didn't it?

[Roth Winkum]

True. But fortune smiled and the cobra missed.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, but fortune's a fickle lady, Buster. Come on, talk it up. Just what are you trying to promote?

[Roth Winkum]

The return of this sacred gold cobra to its rightful place, the temple of my ancestors in India. The blasphemy perpetrated by Mordechai Zif will end only in the restoration of the gold cobra. And I am prepared to do whatever I must do to accomplish this. Even to paying money for it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Or killing.

[Roth Winkum]

Or killing. Death is transitory and therefore inconsequential.

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, the Homicide Bureau has other ideas, elephant boy, so maybe we better just. I hate to leave you alone, Akbar, but you're better off in the long run. I watched just long enough to see Akbar melt toward the floor. Then I ran back along the narrow corridor to where I'd left Abby. When I stepped in the door, I stopped cold. She was facing me from across the room, her eyes wide with fear, a mouth still twisted from a scream. Directly behind there was an opening in what should have been a blank wall. And inside it, staring out with fixed hypnotic eyes, was a coiled cobra. Only this one was solid, gleaming gold. I started toward Abby, but I stopped again because there was a gun in my back.

[Roth Winkum]

That's quite far enough, Marlow.

[Dick Starr]

Ross Winkum.

[Philip Marlowe]

What is this?

[Roth Winkum]

You aren't going to like it, Marlow. Not one bit. Give me your gun.

[Alice Hedges]

Give it to me.

[Philip Marlowe]

Get it yourself.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I wanted to warn you, Marlow. But he said he'd shoot me. He took my gun, too.

[Philip Marlowe]

Come on, Wink.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Em.

[Philip Marlowe]

Why the switch?

[Roth Winkum]

Believe me, Marlow, when I hired you tonight, I expected a much less bizarre ending to all this. I intended you to be peacefully on.

[Alice Hedges]

Your way to Chicago by now, with.

[Roth Winkum]

The gold cobra safely in tow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Still just A favor for a friend?

[Roth Winkum]

Not exactly. That part was a small lie. Mordecai Sif was my partner.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Your partner?

[Roth Winkum]

Yes, my dear. When we felt it was time to move east again, I decided to break away from Mordecai and keep the gold Cobra for myself alone.

[Philip Marlowe]

But I needed help because a fanatic named Akbar turned up who had his eye on the cobra, too.

[Roth Winkum]

Get over into that empty car, both of you.

[Alice Hedges]

Go on, get over there.

[Roth Winkum]

Move.

[Philip Marlowe]

Take it easy.

[Roth Winkum]

No tricks with the pottery you shove them into.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Never mind.

[Roth Winkum]

Leave that vase alone. Get back in the corner.

[Philip Marlowe]

So it was you who killed Zip, huh?

[Dick Starr]

I hated him for every one of.

[Roth Winkum]

A million indignities I've suffered at his hands. As soon as I was sure you'd.

[Alice Hedges]

Picked up the gold cobra, I came.

[Dick Starr]

Back here and I killed him.

[Roth Winkum]

I just finished it when.

[Abigail Seaburn]

When I got here.

[Roth Winkum]

Yes, young lady, I didn't know about you, but I managed to get out of here before you blundered in with that empty suitcase.

[Philip Marlowe]

Empty suitcase? That's what you think.

[Roth Winkum]

That's what I mean. There on the table. Empty as it has been from the outset. Just as empty as the decoy I used. Obviously, Mordecai suspected my intentions to steal the gold Cobra.

[Alice Hedges]

After all.

[Philip Marlowe]

It was a bit more than that, Wink. I'm honest. Oh, what a cozy pair of chums you and Zip must have been. You really don't know what he put.

[Narrator/Announcer]

In that bag, do you?

[Alice Hedges]

What are you talking about?

[Philip Marlowe]

Zip had a surprise all set for you, Winkum.

[Abigail Seaburn]

It was the snake. It's coming out of that vase.

[Philip Marlowe]

Holy smoke. Wake up. There's a live cobra behind you.

[Roth Winkum]

I don't blame you.

[Philip Marlowe]

Listen to me, will you?

[Roth Winkum]

Oh, that's such an old stunt. Stay back.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Marlowe, wake up.

[Philip Marlowe]

Kill it, I tell you. It's right behind.

[Roth Winkum]

Stop it. You're only wasting time.

[Abigail Seaburn]

No, no, no, no, no. I bitten, I bitten.

[Dick Starr]

I bitten. I bit.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, no.

[Philip Marlowe]

He's out and it's no help, baby. That thing's still between us and his gun. Get behind me. Get behind me. Back in the corner, Marlow.

[Abigail Seaburn]

We're trapped. We can't get past it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Get back, will you? Maybe I can throw my coat over it long enough.

[Alice Hedges]

Anybody here?

[Roth Winkum]

What's the matter?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, it's the jerk in the pith helmet. Hey, you. Over here.

[Roth Winkum]

What in the world going on anyway?

[Philip Marlowe]

Get over here with that rifle, will you?

[Dick Starr]

Hurry.

[Roth Winkum]

What's the meaning of all the birdie? Good heavens. My co.

[Philip Marlowe]

Kill it, will you?

[Roth Winkum]

Shoot.

[Alice Hedges]

Quiet.

[Roth Winkum]

You're in a spot, folks.

[Philip Marlowe]

No Folding.

[Roth Winkum]

She's got you within striking distance, so don't move. Just stand still, very still. Come on, Birdie. Birdie, now.

[Dick Starr]

Now, come on.

[Roth Winkum]

Take a look at the end of the rifle, birdie.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Come on.

[Roth Winkum]

See the hole? That's it. In the end. Fascinates you, doesn't it, Teddy? Folks, don't move. Keep looking at the little hole in the rifle, birdie. That's right. Now back up.

[Alice Hedges]

Back up.

[Roth Winkum]

That's the way. Into the sack, Birdie. Little more. Now put your head in like a good girl.

[Abigail Seaburn]

That does it.

[Roth Winkum]

Now we've got you safe and sound.

[Alice Hedges]

In the sack.

[Philip Marlowe]

Whoever you are. Brother, you're a genius.

[Roth Winkum]

Crumpler's the name. Otis Crumpler. Snakes are my business.

[Philip Marlowe]

Most amazing thing I've ever seen.

[Roth Winkum]

Yes, the most amazing thing. Why, she's fainted. Well, what's wrong? Was she bitten?

[Philip Marlowe]

I know, but I know what she means. Look, if you don't mind, Crumpler, I think I'll sit down myself right here. Well, when the police finally moved in, they gave the degenerate Taj Mahal a long once over. And then we adjourned for more questions and answers to the hospital where Abby Seberg was getting her nerve back and Akbar was nursing the split scalp I'd given him. And while Otis Crumpler and I waited for the word downstairs in the coffee shop, Roth winkam, my client, was busy dying of cobra venom in spite of Crumpler's best efforts.

[Roth Winkum]

Well, that's the way it is with cobras, Mr. Marlowe. Sometimes there's just nothing you can do. Sugar?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, thanks. Now, he had it coming, Otis.

[Roth Winkum]

Oh, both of them did. Mordecai Ziff was a slimy saw, too. He'd been snooping around my snake farm for several days. And then tonight, when Birdie turned up missing from a cage, I just knew that he was behind it some way. But I couldn't figure why. Anybody want to steal a cobra, you know what I mean?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah, yeah, vaguely.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Bill.

[Philip Marlowe]

Phil.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Guess what?

[Philip Marlowe]

Why? Oh, Abigail Seeberg is well enough for coffee. Sit down.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Oh, it's better than that. The police think there's a good chance that Akbar will be able to buy the gold cobra and I will get the money. How do you like that?

[Philip Marlowe]

I like it fine. Where are we gonna spend it?

[Abigail Seaburn]

Oh, well, I know a certain kind of snake bite remedy I'd like to try right now. I think we deserve it, mister. It comes in bottles. And they. They call it scotch.

[Roth Winkum]

Oh, no, not whiskey.

[Alice Hedges]

Oh.

[Roth Winkum]

Oh, not for snake bite. Oh, no, that's the very worst thing you could do. You see, it stimulates the heart and makes the blood go faster.

[Abigail Seaburn]

And that and that, Mr. Crumpler, is exactly the idea.

[Dick Starr]

Come on, Phil.

[Philip Marlowe]

You know, there are many things that can lead to romance. Usually it's moonlight, sometimes it's a bit of a song. But whoever heard of a snake playing Cupid? Yeah, well, there was a snake in the Garden of Eden. Yeah. But come to think of it, he kicked up quite a fuss.

[Roth Winkum]

Bill?

[Philip Marlowe]

Hmm?

[Abigail Seaburn]

What are you thinking?

[Philip Marlowe]

Snakes. What are you thinking?

[Abigail Seaburn]

Apples.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Philip Marlowe]

Foreign.

[Commercial Announcer]

Marlow presented by Wrigley's Spearmint Gum bring you Raymond Chandler's most famous character and star, Gerald Moore. Philip Marlow is produced and directed by Norman McDonald and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the cast were Howard McNear, Lynn Allen Wills, Herbert Luke Rugman, Bill Lally and Michael Ann Barrett. The special music is composed and conducted by Richard Arat, the makers of Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. Hope you enjoyed tonight's adventure of Philip Marlowe and that you're enjoying Wrigley's Spearmint Gum every day. We invite you to be with us next week when Philip Arlo says, this.

[Philip Marlowe]

Time I caught a killer on a lonely pelican's rooster. It took a fistfight on the sidewalk, a flyway drummer with an ice pick in his back and a vicious meeting on a yacht to do it. That plus the color of a girl's hair.

[Commercial Announcer]

This is Bob Stevenson speaking and this is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Dick Starr]

Murder by Experts the Mutual Broadcasting System presents Murder by Experts with your host and narrator, the noted Ms. Grand writer, Brett Halliday. Mr. Halliday is creator of the world famous detective character Michael shane, author of 25 mystery novels and whose latest work, this Is It, Michael Shane, has just been published.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is Brett Halliday.

[Dick Starr]

Each week at this time, murder by.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Experts brings you a story of crime and mystery which has been chosen for your approval by one of the world's leading detective story Writers. This time our guest expert is the noted mystery novelist Lenore Glenn Offert. From her wide knowledge of the field of mystery, Ms. Offered has chosen a tense and dramatic tale of a man who found himself enmeshed in a web of jealousy and violence with an ending he didn't foresee as written by George and Gertrude Fast. And now we present John Sylvester and Joyce Gordon in Freeze. A Crowd.

[Dick Starr]

A suitcase full of clothes and a hundred arrangements of pop tune. Sure can get heavy on a hot day. My arms felt as if they'd been unhinged at the joints. By the time I'd walked a mile from the main road to the Hedgehog Inn. It was a long, low, white building sitting back about a hundred feet from the road. This was it, the roadhouse where I would spend the next three months pounding the ivories. At this hour of the morning, the entrance hall was empty and so was the dining room. I walked straight through and pushed open a swinging door that looked as if it might lead into the kitchen. It did. Hello.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, hi.

[Dick Starr]

Well, I find Mr. Hedges.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He'll be around. You the new piano player?

[Dick Starr]

That's right. Dick stars tonight.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh. Gus Peters. I'm a cook.

[Dick Starr]

Oh, glad to know you, Gus.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Rest your weary limbs.

[Alice Hedges]

Thanks.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He didn't meet you at the bus stop? Nope. Knew he wouldn't. More important things to then do. How about a cold beer? You look as if you need it.

[Dick Starr]

No beer, thanks. I'll have a glass of milk if it's handy, and a sandwich.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Milk? You sure you're the new piano player?

[Dick Starr]

I said I was. So Hedges had more important things to do than to meet me, huh?

[Narrator/Announcer]

His wife keeps him on a jump.

[Philip Marlowe]

His wife?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah. Doesn't let her out of his sight. She went to town to do the marketing this morning. He followed her? Most likely.

[Dick Starr]

Why would he want to do that?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Don't trust her, that's why.

[Dick Starr]

Jealous?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You want some free advice, son?

[Dick Starr]

Okay.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Stay away from her. Far away.

[Dick Starr]

That won't be hard.

[Philip Marlowe]

No?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Maybe you'll change your mind when you see her. Why do you suppose we've been having such a fast turnover in piano players? None of them last more than a week.

[Dick Starr]

Listen, Gus, I see plenty of gorgeous gals in my line of work. They don't bother me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, every Napoleon's got his water loose on. Only two men around here ain't ever been bothered by Alice Hedges. Me, for one. I'm past that kind of foolishness.

[Dick Starr]

And the other?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Andy Slade.

[Dick Starr]

Who's he?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You meet him? He works here.

[Dick Starr]

How does he manage to resist.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know, I ain't never figured that one out. Except he's just a natural cold face. Hey, review stuff on the porch stick.

[Dick Starr]

Uh huh.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, I'll take it to your room. You're in the attic right next to me.

[Dick Starr]

Oh, swell. But never mind lugging up that stuff.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You're right, son. I'm going up anyway. You just sit here and finish.

[Dick Starr]

Gus went out and left me along with my sandwich and milk. A couple of minutes later I found out what he'd been driving at. The door from the dining room swung open and a girl came in carrying some packages. She walked over to the table and put them down before she said anything. And I had time to get a good look at what was probably the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen.

[Alice Hedges]

Hello. You're Dick Starr, aren't you?

[Dick Starr]

Yes, I. I am.

[Alice Hedges]

I'm Alice Hedges. How do you do?

[Dick Starr]

Hello.

[Alice Hedges]

I hope Gus is making you comfortable. My husband didn't meet your bus, did he?

[Dick Starr]

No, I walked.

[Alice Hedges]

I'm awfully sorry. If I'd known. Oh, John, here's Mr. Starr, the new pianist. Mr. Starr, my husband.

[Dick Starr]

How are you, Mr. Hedges? Hello, Starr. Alice, go remind Andy to meet me in my office in 15 minutes.

[Alice Hedges]

But John, I'm sure he reminds me.

[Commercial Announcer]

Go on.

[Philip Marlowe]

Alice.

[Dick Starr]

Listen to me, Star, you're new here. Yes. Now get this into your head and get it in good the first time. Stay away from my wife. You can relax, Mr. Hedges. I'm here to play the piano. Well, just so you don't forget, it's the only thing you're here for. Mr. Hedges, I assure you I haven't the least intention. Oh, now don't give me that, Star. I've reached the end of my rope with her. The next man she makes a play for is gonna get it. The next man she. You heard me. That's why I'm warning. If you want to stay healthy, keep clear of her. Enough said? Enough said.

[Alice Hedges]

Okay.

[Dick Starr]

Now let's talk about your work. Yes, Mr. Hedges. You play in the dining room from dinner time until 2am you can take a 10 minute break every hour. Uhhuh. Now, there won't be a lot of customers in the dining room. Sometimes there may not be any. But you'll play anyway. No, that's okay with me. Maybe you'd better get this straight from the start. I don't make my money out of the dining room.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Or the bar either. No? No.

[Dick Starr]

I've got the barn fixed up with a dice table and a roulette wheel. Oh, Andy Slade. Runs that end of it. Now, it's not going to affect you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

One way or another.

[Dick Starr]

Well, I'm not worried, Mr. Hedges. I've played in other clubs where they had gambling rooms.

[Philip Marlowe]

Good, good.

[Dick Starr]

Well, get along, Dick. Just remember, stick to your piano playing. I intended to. If Hedges wanted to go around thinking his wife was a man chaser, that was his business. Of course, he was wrong. All you had to do was look at Alice Hedges to know that she was straight. She'd never come chasing after me. And even if she did, she wouldn't find anyone at home. No, sir. Jobs don't grow on bushes. And I was hanging on to this one. At dinner I played for two or three couples and at about 10, the gambling crowd began drifting in. They'd have one drink at the bar and then head out toward the rear where the barn was. I went to have a look during one of my 10 minute breaks. That's when I met Andy Slade. He was tall and good looking in a hasty way and handled the roulette wheel with an easy air. He grinned when Hedges introduced us, but I felt sure he wouldn't know me again the next time we met. So this was Andy Slade, the only man outside of Old Gust that Hedges could trust. At 2 in the morning I quit and went into the kitchen for a glass of milk. Alice was there, alone.

[Alice Hedges]

Hello, Dick. Did you want something?

[Dick Starr]

No, thanks. I guess I'll be going up to bed.

[Alice Hedges]

But you must have come in for something. A glass of milk. Don't be bashful.

[Dick Starr]

Well, all right. Thanks a lot.

[Alice Hedges]

I suppose my husband told you.

[Dick Starr]

Told me what?

[Alice Hedges]

That I'm no good. He did, didn't he?

[Dick Starr]

Oh, he not. Nothing like that.

[Alice Hedges]

No use, Dick. He tells everybody.

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, he might.

[Dick Starr]

He might have said something, but I just let it blow over my head.

[Alice Hedges]

What do you think, Dick? About me? Honey, from what you've seen of me, do I look like that kind?

[Dick Starr]

Certainly not you. You look like a nice girl to me, Mrs. Hedges. Very nice girl.

[Alice Hedges]

You really mean that? I know you do. You can't imagine how much it means to me to hear you say that. John is so crazy with jealousy. And he has no reason, absolutely no reason. Makes me so miserable. Always spying on me, always following me. Gosh, that's a shame, Dick. See that lake out there?

[Dick Starr]

Yeah.

[Alice Hedges]

It's big and blue and deep. Someday that's where I'm going. That's one place he won't follow.

[Dick Starr]

Oh, don't talk like that, Mrs. Hedges. That's. That's no way to solve Anything.

[Alice Hedges]

Would it really matter to anyone?

[Narrator/Announcer]

What?

[Alice Hedges]

Sure wouldn't matter to John. He doesn't love me. Really. Jealousy is just sort of a disease. I haven't anyone else would matter to me, Mrs. Hedges.

[Abigail Seaburn]

You.

[Dick Starr]

Yes, it would. Even though I never laid eyes on you before this morning. I know what you must be feeling and I'm sorry for you.

[Alice Hedges]

You're kind. Dick. You really understand, don't you? Oh, Dick. I need someone to understand me, to help me gi.

[Dick Starr]

I'll be glad to do anything I can.

[Alice Hedges]

I know there's nothing you can do, but I'll be able to talk to you. And that'll mean so much to me.

[Philip Marlowe]

It will.

[Alice Hedges]

I need a friend, Dick. I'm glad I found a friend.

[Dick Starr]

I went up to my room, but I didn't sleep. I kept thinking about Alice, what a tough spot she was in. Feeling sorry for her and wondering what what I could do to help. But five hours of tossing didn't help solve a problem any. I got up, washed, shaved and dressed and started down for breakfast. Then I noticed a piece of paper lying just inside my door. It was from Olives. Asking me to take the rowboat after breakfast and row a mile down the lake. I put it into my pocket and went downstairs to the kitchen for breakfast.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Maybe you better go back to bed, son. I asked you twice if you wanted eggs and I ain't got an answer yet.

[Dick Starr]

Oh, sorry, Gus. No, no eggs, thanks. Just some coffee.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What, no milk?

[Dick Starr]

Where's Mr. Hedges? Gus sleeping.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He never gets to bed before five.

[Dick Starr]

And Mrs. Hedgett?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Out marketing. Why?

[Dick Starr]

Oh, nothing.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Just that the old man made it on the line for you yesterday. Huh. So what?

[Dick Starr]

I never was interested in another man's wife. She's no exception.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Fine. That's fine, son.

[Dick Starr]

Is there a rowboat around, Gus?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah, should be one tied up to the dock. Gonna use it?

[Dick Starr]

Might as well. Nothing else to do.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Piano players are all the same. Nothing else. You do, you go rolling. Seems to me it's just back breaking work and hard in the hands.

[Dick Starr]

Well, I like to keep fit. Are the oars in the boat?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah. Hey, Dick, maybe you'd better chop some wood for exercise. I could use some Kindle.

[Dick Starr]

No, no, thanks. I'm going rowing. A stiff breeze at my back made the going tough. And even though the morning was cool, I'd worked up a good sweat before I'd been out 10 minutes. Maybe I'd have done better to have stayed home and chopped kindling for old Gus. But she needed a friend. I couldn't let it Down. Finally I saw a patch of pink moving a little way up the bank. I rode to shore and tied up.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Hello.

[Alice Hedges]

I was beginning to be afraid you weren't coming.

[Dick Starr]

Weren't coming? Well, we're friends, aren't we?

[Alice Hedges]

I know, Dick. I know. I. I just thought perhaps John saw you as you were leaving.

[Dick Starr]

Well, even if he did, there's nothing wrong with going out for a little row.

[Alice Hedges]

He'd see something wrong in it. He saw something wrong. And you're coming into the kitchen. Last night.

[Dick Starr]

He knew about that. But he was in the bar.

[Alice Hedges]

He knew. He always knew. He was furious.

[Dick Starr]

But why? It was a coincidence that I met you there. It wasn't as if we'd planned to meet.

[Alice Hedges]

Of course, that's what I told him, but he wouldn't believe me. He said if he ever caught us together again, he'd throw you out the same day.

[Dick Starr]

You're right, Alex. That kind of jealousy isn't normal. It must be terrible for you.

[Roth Winkum]

It is.

[Alice Hedges]

It is. But I didn't ask you to come here just to cry on your shoulder. I wanted to wound up. Dick, you need this job, don't you?

[Dick Starr]

Yes, I do, kind of.

[Alice Hedges]

That's what I thought. Then you must go out of your way to avoid me. Don't even talk to me. Just ignore me as if I didn't exist.

[Dick Starr]

I hate to do that, Alice. You said you needed a friend, someone to talk to.

[Alice Hedges]

That's all right, Dick. I guess I'll get used to this kind of life. Promise me you'll do as I say. It's the only way to keep your job here. Really?

[Dick Starr]

It is that the way Slade keeps his job?

[Alice Hedges]

Slade? He doesn't have to pretend indifferent. We took a dislike to each other the moment we met. John noticed it right away and decided to keep him, no matter what his demands were.

[Dick Starr]

I see.

[Alice Hedges]

Slade makes more than we do out of the roulette table. But he hates me. And that entitles him to anything he wants as far as John's concerned.

[Dick Starr]

Well, Alice, I can't hate you even to please a crazy, jealous husband.

[Alice Hedges]

Dick, please. Please try to make him think you do. I'll help you. I'll avoid you, too.

[Dick Starr]

And go on living in solitary confinement. But look, this is America, Alice. This is the 20th century. That man has no right to keep you a prisoner in your own house. I mean, you're a woman, not. Not a piece of property.

[Alice Hedges]

Dick, it's no use. There's nothing I can do.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There sure is.

[Roth Winkum]

You can leave him.

[Alice Hedges]

I can't Leave. He'd follow me. He'd bring me back or kill me. Oh, Dick, I'm lost.

[Abigail Seaburn]

I'm lost.

[Dick Starr]

We've been sitting side by side on a log. Now Alice covered her face with her hand. I put my arm around her. Then she turned and buried her face in my shoulder.

[Alice Hedges]

Oh, Dick. Dick.

[Dick Starr]

Don't worry, Alice. I'll get you out of this. I'll think of a way. Don't worry, baby. Alice, driving the car got back to the inn sooner than I did. In the rowboat, guts winked at me when I walked into the kitchen and nodded toward the dining room. Through the closed door, I heard their voices.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I think you're a rotten lie.

[Dick Starr]

You couldn't have spent two hours in town shopping, no matter how crowded it was. Who'd you see when you got there?

[Narrator/Announcer]

What man were you sweet talking to this time?

[Alice Hedges]

I swear I didn't talk to any man in town.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You're a liar. And you're a two time. Take it easy, son.

[Dick Starr]

I'll break his neck. Don't be a fool.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know I ain't altogether wrong, don't you?

[Dick Starr]

He is wrong. He's a lunatic, that's what he is.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, maybe he is and maybe he ain't. She's his wife, and you've got no call but me.

[Dick Starr]

I'll butt in, all right. In my own time and in my own way. I didn't see or hear from Alice again that day. I knew it wasn't because she wanted to avoid me. She was doing it for my sake, to keep me out of hot water. But the next morning, I fell. I had to see her, and I had a hunch she wouldn't be too hard to find. After breakfast, I went down to the boat dock. The boat was there, but the oars were missing. I went back to the kitchen and asked Gus where they were.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, the oars. Funny thing about them, I. I happened to notice that they had something wrong with them. I figured if you use them again, you might get hurt. So I just put them where they won't cause no trouble.

[Dick Starr]

Stop being smart, Gus. Let's have them.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Look, what's the sense of getting blisters on your hands? You stay close to home, son. You'll be better off.

[Dick Starr]

I'm not worried about a few blisters.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, then, let me tell you something. Hedges took the other car and followed his wife this morning. Still want them oars?

[Philip Marlowe]

They come.

[Dick Starr]

I walked out on him and let the porch door slam behind me. I'd wanted to tell Alice about the idea that had come to me at about 3 that morning. It was so simple I couldn't understand why it hadn't popped into my head the minute I was sure that Alice had to be rid of that man. Gambling was illegal. If Hedges was in jail, he couldn't bother Alice, could he? I went out to the public phone booth in the bar and called the police and told them about the gambling going on in the barn over at Hedgehop Inn. As simple as that. I was feeling pretty good that night, playing to an empty dining hall and thinking how pretty soon Alice's troubles would all be behind her with that precious husband of her safe behind bars. Along about 11 o' clock the door from the entrance hall opened and Alice came in. In the fluffy blue evening gown she walked quickly through the room without stopping. But as she passed by my piano on her way to the kitchen, she managed to whisper.

[Alice Hedges]

On the boat, doc. Dick, at 12.

[Dick Starr]

I kept on playing as if nothing had happened. But inside me a voice kept singing. She loves you, Dick. She tried to keep away, but she couldn't.

[Alice Hedges]

She loves you.

[Dick Starr]

She'd never risk a rendezvous on the.

[Alice Hedges]

Boat dock if she didn't. She loves you just as you love her.

[Dick Starr]

At 5 to 12 I was on the dock. It was a night right out of a dream with the mist over the lake and the moon a pale blur in the starless sky. I was looking out over the inky water when I heard the click of her high heels behind me and I turned and she was in my arms and her mouth was pressed hard against mine. It was a long time before either of us could speak.

[Alice Hedges]

I know how you feel about me, Dick, darling. I know because it happened to me too. The moment I saw you, I was so afraid you'd believe the things John said and turn against me.

[Dick Starr]

Couldn't.

[Philip Marlowe]

I?

[Dick Starr]

Couldn't, sweet. I couldn't believe anything bad about you. Listen, honey, you're going to be free. Do you hear? You're going to be free.

[Alice Hedges]

What do you mean, Dick? How?

[Dick Starr]

Never mind. You'll find out soon enough. Just. Just trust me.

[Alice Hedges]

Oh, I do, I do, Dick. You're so wonderful. Dick.

[Dick Starr]

Huh?

[Alice Hedges]

Someone's coming. It's John.

[Dick Starr]

I'll let him come right over here. Hedges.

[Roth Winkum]

I'm waiting.

[Dick Starr]

Oh, you dirty louse. You know better than the rest of those piano playing Casanovas. Take it easy, Hedges.

[Alice Hedges]

Dick, be careful.

[Dick Starr]

You look like a decent fellow, Star. That's why I warned you. But I say you know better than the rest.

[Abigail Seaburn]

Look out.

[Dick Starr]

I saw his roundhouse even before Alice screamed and I beat him to the punch. I'll get you. I warned him.

[Alice Hedges]

He had a knife.

[Dick Starr]

He was crouching and there was a wicked 7 inch blade in his right hand. I circled him until I got the lights from the house at my back and then I backed away. I couldn't fight a knife with my bare fist and I was going to run for it as soon as I could get Alice away. Alice, get into the house, lock yourself in and call the police. You'll be fish bait before they get here. And so will she. I could see intense for the springs. And then I felt something heavy being pressed into my hands.

[Alice Hedges]

Use it, Dick. Use it quick.

[Dick Starr]

Hedges jumped and I swung at the same minute. I must have crushed his skull in because he fell like a sack of flour. In the darkness I saw Alice bending over him. She stood up slowly.

[Alice Hedges]

He's dead. You killed him, Dick. He's dead.

[Dick Starr]

Don't worry, darling.

[Roth Winkum]

It'll be all right.

[Dick Starr]

It was self defense. It was either him or me.

[Alice Hedges]

I know it, Dick, but the police. I think it's murder. What do we do?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Do?

[Dick Starr]

I will. We'll get the police ourselves and tell them just how it happened. That that's what we'll do.

[Roth Winkum]

No, no, no.

[Alice Hedges]

They won't believe you. We need time, Dick. Time to think.

[Dick Starr]

No, that's no good, Alice. If we try to cover up for my sister sake.

[Alice Hedges]

Once the police get here, you're lost. They'll never believe this.

[Dick Starr]

What's your idea?

[Alice Hedges]

Hide him, get him out of sight. Then we can make up a story.

[Dick Starr]

Hide him where?

[Alice Hedges]

I don't know. Wait a minute. His car. It's parked at the end of the dock.

[Dick Starr]

Okay. The luggage compartment. Listen. I think I hear someone. We stood and listened to, but there wasn't a sound except the crickets shrilling so loudly. The noise seemed to beat inside my brain. So we dragged Hedge's body off the dock and I carried it to the car. Luckily there wasn't any blood. I pushed it into the luggage compartment and closed the lid. It would be safe there until I could think of something to do with it. Then we separated. I went back to my piano while Alice gave the people gambling in the barn some story about Hedges suddenly getting sick. So that's what it was like to kill a man. But I wasn't guilty. I wasn't guilty of anything except the natural instinct for self preservation. No jury would convict a man for trying to save his own life. Then why did I hide the body? I shouldn't have listened to Alice. She Was a girl. She didn't understand these things. It was a mistake. A terrible mistake. And then I heard it. Mistake Police. I jumped up from my piano and started for the barn. And then I remembered they weren't coming for me. They were coming to investigate that tip I'd given them about the gambling. So I stayed where I was in the dining room, listening to the racket and punch commotion as the troopers closed in on the bar. Two minutes went by and then a police sergeant came in leading Alice by the arm.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No use, Mrs. Petches. We know your husband's on the grounds and we're going to find him. You might as well tell us where he is.

[Alice Hedges]

I don't know where he is. He must have gotten away.

[Dick Starr]

Nobody got away.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We've got this place surrounded. Two of my men are looking through the house now. We'll find him if we have to tear the place apart.

[Dick Starr]

Who's this?

[Alice Hedges]

Dick Starr. He plays the piano here.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Uh huh.

[Dick Starr]

But Sergeant, would it be all right if I left? I had nothing to do with the gambling.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We're taking everybody in, Bud.

[Dick Starr]

Sergeant, could I talk to you alone for a minute?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sit down over there, Mrs. Hedges. All right. What is it, Star?

[Dick Starr]

Listen, I'm the one who tipped you off about the gambling.

[Philip Marlowe]

Here.

[Dick Starr]

I phoned headquarters this morning. You're not gonna pull me in, are you?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Will you tell that to the captain when we get to headquarters? Maybe he'll let you off. My orders are to take everyone and that's just what I'm going to do.

[Dick Starr]

I'll be reasonable, Sergeant. Sorry.

[Narrator/Announcer]

That's how it is.

[Dick Starr]

In that case.

[Alice Hedges]

Dick. He's unconscious.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah.

[Dick Starr]

I've got to get out of here. Got to get that car away.

[Alice Hedges]

Do you think you can?

[Dick Starr]

I'll have to, or we'll be facing a charge of murder. I'll be back as soon as I've managed it. I slipped out and keeping to the shadows, made my way to the car. And then they saw me. I got out on the road and stepped on the gas. Behind me I heard the roar of motorcycles as some of the troopers came after me. I kept my lights off, hoping to lose them in the dark when I hit the highway. But if they couldn't see me, I couldn't see anything at all. The black outside came rushing at me and suddenly the ground fell away. The last thing I heard was a crash of.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ooh, are you, son? Well, don't talk, son. You're in the hospital and there's a cop just outside the door. You've been out for two days with a skin full of broken bones.

[Dick Starr]

Now, just listen.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Careful. I mightn't get another chance to say this.

[Dick Starr]

I'm listening.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Hedges. They found his body in the car.

[Dick Starr]

Oh, they did?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know, I. I saw you stow it into the luggage compartment, son. Funny thing, though. That ain't where they found it.

[Dick Starr]

What do you mean?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You see, there was no partition between.

[Dick Starr]

The luggage compartment and the back seat.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And it seems that the crash threw you out through the windshield and him right up into the front seat, across the steering wheel. The neatest trick of the year, I don't mind saying.

[Dick Starr]

What?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah, that's right. Some fluke, huh? The cops put the cause of Hedges death down as an auto accident. They don't even have a reckless driving charge against you, son. Only trying to escape arrest. You're practically in the clear.

[Dick Starr]

In the clear?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah. That's why I've been sitting here for two days waiting for you to come too. Couldn't let you spill the beans. That's great.

[Dick Starr]

It's wonderful. What about Alice?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You still got her on your mind, eh? Man, I hate to tell you this, but you better forget about her.

[Dick Starr]

What do you mean? What do you mean, forget about her?

[Narrator/Announcer]

We're in love.

[Philip Marlowe]

Maybe you are.

[Narrator/Announcer]

She ain't. She framed that fight with Hedges.

[Dick Starr]

Are you crazy?

[Narrator/Announcer]

She knew he was following her when she went down to the dock to meet you. She knew he'd pull a knife and she had the club handy for you to use. She'd come out on top no matter which one of you won. Where is she now, son, ain't I telling you? If you killed him, that was okay with her. If he killed you, that wouldn't have bothered her none. He'd have had a fry for her murder. Either way, she was rid of him.

[Dick Starr]

Where is she?

[Narrator/Announcer]

All right, all right, if you insist. She went away to get married. Yeah, to Andy Slade. Slade? I always figured him for a coalfish. That was wrong. It was just an act. An act? Yeah. She set you and them other piano players up as decoys for Hedges. But all the time, it was Slade she was after. And so the curtain falls on Three's.

[Dick Starr]

A Crowd, which was chosen by guest.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Expert Lenore Glenn offered. Ms.

[Dick Starr]

Offered is author of the recently republished.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Mystery novel the Smiling Tiger. Next week at this time, Murder by Experts brings you a story of three killers and a victim who refused to die. As selected for your approval by one of the world's foremost detective story writers. Until then, this is your host, Brett Halliday, hoping you'll be with us again next week at this time.

[Dick Starr]

Program was transcrib.