Broadway Is My Beat: Nick Norman and Santa Claus 12/24/1949

Summary

Broadway Is My Beat: Nick Norman and Santa Claus – Detailed Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
• Episode: Broadway Is My Beat: Nick Norman and Santa Claus
• Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
• Release Date: December 25, 2024

Overview: "Broadway Is My Beat: Nick Norman and Santa Claus" is a quintessential episode from the Golden Age of Radio, brought to life by Choice Classic Radio. This episode masterfully blends detective fiction with holiday spirit, set against the bustling backdrop of Broadway on Christmas Eve, 1949. Featuring Detective Danny Clover, portrayed by Larry Thor, the story navigates through themes of redemption, deception, and the true meaning of Christmas.

Introduction: The episode opens with a vivid narration setting the scene on Broadway during Christmas Eve, highlighting the juxtaposition of glittering lights and underlying loneliness. Detective Danny Clover is introduced as the protagonist navigating his morning duties at the police headquarters, interspersed with festive chaos.

Key Characters:

• Detective Danny Clover (Larry Thor): A dedicated and perceptive detective working on a Christmas case.
• Marty Wednick: A young member of the Police Athletic League seeking answers about Santa Claus.
• Sergeant Gino Tartaglia: A sergeant struggling with his disbelief in Santa Claus following a traumatic past incident.
• Nick Norman: An ex-con and renowned safecracker masquerading as Santa Claus.
• Simon Larrabee: A real estate agent pressuring Danny for overdue rent.
• Maxie Riddell: A shoplifter-turned-salesperson with ties to Nick and the mob.

Plot Summary:

Act 1: The Christmas Conundrum (00:41 – 02:35) The narrative introduces Detective Danny Clover's routine on the morning before Christmas. Marty Wednick approaches Danny with concerns about the absence of Santa Claus, representing his constituency of young "former delinquents." Marty demands accountability, fearing disillusionment among the youth.

Notable Quote:

"A former delinquent shouldn't be disillusioned. Could make him a neurotic. So I repeat on behalf of my constituents, where is Santa Claus?" – Marty Wednick [02:18]

Act 2: Entering the Tree (02:35 – 06:18) Sergeant Tartaglia arrives, leadership the dramatics of Santa Claus's disappearance. Tartaglia reveals that Santa (Nick Norman) was seen in a suspicious black sedan, hinting at mob involvement. The detective duo confront the dwindling belief in Santa Claus, setting the stage for a deeper investigation.

Notable Quote:

"The deal we made. That feels good too, huh?" – Sergeant Tartaglia [04:43]

Act 3: Investigation Unfolds (06:18 – 12:35) Danny's investigation leads him to Simon Larrabee, who demands overdue rent for a warehouse intended for a children's Christmas party. Simultaneously, Sergeant Tartaglia grapples with public perception, as media portrays him negatively for his role in the Santa Claus fiasco. Danny visits Mrs. Norman, Nick's mother, uncovering strained family relations and Nick's elusive behavior.

Notable Quote:

"One day when he was nine years old, Nick said to me. He said, ma, don't ask me where I been no more. Cause I'll lie to you. That's what he said." – Mrs. Norman [11:08]

Act 4: Unmasking Santa Claus (12:35 – 17:12) The narrative crescendos at the Domino Club, a glamorous venue where Danny confronts Tussie Carnes, Nick's associate. The tension peaks as Nick reveals his true identity, attempting to escape Danny's grasp. However, revelations surface about mob influences and Nick's commitment to his Santa Claus persona despite his criminal background.

Notable Quote:

"A man in a tree said two guys pushed you into a car. He only had a bird's eye view. But he said kidnapped." – Sergeant Tartaglia [08:32]

Act 5: Resolution and Redemption (17:12 – 27:37) Maxie Riddell, a reformed shoplifter and old associate of Nick, provides critical information about Nick's involvement with mobsters Melvin and George. Danny navigates the complexities of trust and deception, ultimately persuading Simon Larrabee to settle the rent, ensuring the children's party can proceed. The episode concludes with a heartwarming affirmation of Christmas spirit, community, and the triumph of goodwill.

Notable Quote:

"I'll have fun at the party. I always do." – Detective Danny Clover [26:12]

Themes and Insights:

• Redemption and Transformation: Nick Norman's journey from a safecracker to Santa Claus symbolizes personal transformation and the quest for redemption.
• Belief and Disillusionment: The episode explores the thin line between belief and skepticism, particularly in the context of Santa Claus's existence and the impact of disillusionment on the youth.
• Community and Responsibility: Detective Clover's dedication underscores the importance of community responsibility, especially during the festive season.
• Deception and Truth: The intricate web of lies and truths among characters like Tartaglia and Simon Larrabee highlights the challenges in discerning reality amidst deception.

Conclusion: "Broadway Is My Beat: Nick Norman and Santa Claus" is a captivating blend of mystery and holiday cheer, enriched by its well-developed characters and intricate plot. The episode not only entertains but also imparts meaningful messages about belief, redemption, and the true essence of Christmas. Through sharp dialogue and engaging storytelling, Choice Classic Radio delivers a memorable tribute to old-time radio's detective genre.

Final Notable Quote:

"On Christmas Eve, you believe a miracle. Then a whirl of confetti is in your eyes, and you're pushed along with a crowd. It's Broadway, the merriest, the shiniest, the lonesomest mile in the world." – Narrator [27:40]

Cast and Crew:

• Written by: Morton Fine and David Friedkin
• Musical Score: Alexander Courage
• Conducted by: Wilbur Hatch
• Produced and Directed by: Elliot Lewis
• Cast: Charles Calvert, Gil Stratton Jr., Howard McNear, Hal March, Bert Holland, Shep Menken, Estelle Dodge, and Peggy We.

---

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of "Broadway Is My Beat: Nick Norman and Santa Claus," providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the episode's narrative, characters, and underlying themes.

Transcript

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[Larry Thor]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] Broadway's My Beat From.

[Narrator]

Times Square to Columbus Circle, the gaudiest, the most violent, the lonesomest mile in the world.

[Larry Thor]

Broadway's my beat With Larry Thor as Detective Danny Clover.

[Narrator]

Broadway on Christmas Eve Broadway's natives dance their Christmas dance to the music of carols flowing out of tinsel loudspeakers. The kids mash their noses against plate glass, lick it and watch the mechanical clown, the mechanized tour army, the tin man dancing a jig on a tin box. Their eyes are dark with desire and hunger they make a wish on a neon star. That's how it is on Christmas Eve on Broadway. My beat on the morning of the day before Christmas, creatures are stirring at police headquarters. There's the patter of tired feet and the sound of manly giggles as little gifts are hidden in desk drawers or poured into Dixie cups or slipped under the police blotter. And in my office there's a kid I knew, name of Marty Wednick.

[Podbean]

Danny, I don't like to disturb you at this unmentionable hour.

[Narrator]

10:00 in the morning. Unmentionable?

[Podbean]

You kidding? Sleep has not yet fled from my starry eyes. What makes me bounce my pillow at an hour, which is for the squares, is a problem.

[Narrator]

What's your problem, Marty?

[Podbean]

Am I or am I not the child president of your branch of the Police Athletic League?

[Narrator]

You are.

[Podbean]

So I promise my constituency of fellow former delinquents a santy clause for Christmas. That's the problem. When are you gonna give with a Santy Claus? Don't laugh, Danny. A former delinquent shouldn't be disillusioned. Could make him a neurotic. So I repeat on behalf of my constituents, where is Santa Claus?

[Narrator]

He'll be here in a minute, Marty. Sergeant Tartaglia. Oh, here he is. Come on in, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.

[Podbean]

Oh, what, this guy's a sergeant, huh?

[Narrator]

Hey, Totaglia. This is Marty Wednick. He wants Santa Claus.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, he's coming, Danny. He's coming. Come on in, Sandy. Everybody make way everybody for Santa Claus.

[Podbean]

And what's your alias name, Little boy?

Ho ho H. This guy's a Santa Claus.

Who's the kid? The punk. Danny, who is he?

Marty Wednick, that's who I am. So you're Santa Claus, huh? Audition me something.

What? Why you crummy.

Get your hands off me. Sandy Claus. Is this the Christmas spirit?

I'll give it to you in the mouth. Fresh kid.

You want how many rings?

[Narrator]

Wait a minute. Wait a minute. You two. Marty, this is Nick Norman.

[Podbean]

Nick Norman, the ex con.

How do you like this monster? For 15 years I've been playing Sandy Claus at Sing Sing with no complaints mind you. The first day I am a free civilian playing me old part. That squirt gives me the hook. I resigned from Sandy Claus. I didn't get treatment like this even from the guards.

[Narrator]

Take it easy, Nick. Marty didn't mean it. Did you Marty?

[Podbean]

How was I to know that Santy Claus here was the world famous light fingered safecracker ex.

Light fingered world famous safe cracker? You.

[Narrator]

Well, does he meet with your approval, Marty?

[Podbean]

Well, the costume is sloppy, the beard's more thin, but yeah, he'll do.

Don't do me no favors, punk.

You want to know something, Nick?

What? Something.

I like you. I think you are the best. Sandy Claus. It has ever been my privilege to present to my constituents of the Pal. This is from the Hartnick.

That's better. You gotta show respect for Sandy Claus. What time's your party?

8:00 tonight. You'll be there?

I'll be there.

Well, so long, Danny. Sergeant Santa Claus. See you at the party. Merry Christmas.

That's a good kid. Appreciates the finer things.

[Narrator]

Feels good to be out, huh Nick?

[Podbean]

15 years is a long night without sleep, Danny. Yeah, feels good. And thanks for the job of Sandy Claus. I would miss it after all these years.

[Narrator]

The deal we made. That feels good too, huh?

[Podbean]

The. Oh yeah, yeah, the deal. Sure Danny. I'll keep my promise to you.

[Narrator]

That's good. You won't Forget what happened 15 years ago on Christmas Eve.

[Podbean]

How can I forget? It was like today. I was all dressed up like Sandy Claus. I had a few idle hours and right in front of me there just happened to be an idle safe. So I cracked it. So? So I got caught.

[Narrator]

Uh huh. What are you gonna do now? Between now and 8:00, the time the party starts.

[Podbean]

Walk the thoroughfares and wish everybody joyous tidings and pat?

[Narrator]

Kids on the head and leave their mother's purses alone.

[Podbean]

Oh, Danny, how can you talk to Sandy Claus that way? I promised you that.

[Narrator]

I'm sure you did. Hey, Titaglia.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah, Danny?

[Narrator]

Tag along with Santa Claus. Fresh air will do you both good.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, gee, thanks, Danny. Thanks. You know, the fresh air do us both good.

[Narrator]

Yeah, but hold his hand to Taglia so he won't get lost. We don't want him to get lost, do we?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, no, Danny.

[Narrator]

No. Because what's Christmas without Santa Claus? Have fun, boys. So everybody was happy. And that was good, because it was a season for it. Sergeant Tartaglia was happy because I had not only given him permission to leave the room, I told him to go out and take a walk with Santa Claus. And everyone knows that Santa Claus is always happy, even if, once upon a time, he had to spread his glad tidings around Sing Sing. I considered it a while, and then I decided to inhale the bloom of Christmas as it filtered through police headquarters. And it made me feel happy, too. It lasted for two inhales.

[Simon Larrabee]

The sign on the door says Lieutenant Danny Clover. I don't believe in signs. What's your name?

[Narrator]

Uh, what's yours?

[Simon Larrabee]

I came prepared for a question like that. Here's my card.

[Narrator]

Thanks. Simon Larrabee, Real Estate and Rentals. You renting something, Mr. Larrabee?

[Simon Larrabee]

Ah, that would give you the upper hand.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Two questions.

[Simon Larrabee]

Am I one, and you haven't answered it yet.

[Narrator]

Danny Clover. Like the sign says, that's my name.

[Simon Larrabee]

You're quite right. I am renting something.

[Narrator]

Go ahead, rent away. I like to watch.

[Simon Larrabee]

I'm doing it now, just looking at you. I'm renting that property known as the warehouse at 2290 East Grand Street.

[Narrator]

Well, if it makes you happy. Wait a minute. That's our clubhouse. That's where the kids are having a Christmas party.

[Podbean]

Are you?

[Narrator]

What's the.

[Simon Larrabee]

What else can it be? Where's the rent?

[Narrator]

Rent for what?

[Simon Larrabee]

Rent for that property known as the warehouse at 2290 East Grand Street.

[Narrator]

You mean it hasn't been paid? How much is it?

[Simon Larrabee]

It's 6,250amonth. Oh, that includes utilities.

[Narrator]

I'll pay it. The club's treasurer will reimburse me.

[Simon Larrabee]

You don't understand, Mr. Clover. When I rent something, I get a year's rent in advance. That comes to $750, and I won it before there's any party there.

[Narrator]

Are you kidding? Why are those kids gonna get money like that?

[Simon Larrabee]

Well, I'll give in till 8 o'clock to get the money. Now just sit right here and to Lynn.

[Narrator]

All right. Grab yourself a police gazette.

[Simon Larrabee]

Never touch the stuff.

[Narrator]

Suit yourself. Oh, excuse me, Simon. Danny Clover speaking.

[Podbean]

Danny.

[Narrator]

Danny, this is Patrolman Curcio. Yeah, what is it? I can hardly hear you, Curcio. Yeah, yeah, well, no wonder. Listen, what I gotta talk through. Listen, Danny. Hey, you see what I mean? Why the sirens? What's the trouble? Sergeant Tartaglia is up a tree.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

What?

[Podbean]

Sergeant Tartaglia is in a tree on the avenue. A playground, Danny.

[Narrator]

He flipped his lid. He's telling anyone that'll listen that there ain't no Santa Claus. You better come on down, Danny. When I got down to the avenue a playground, it was having the Christmas party of its life. A 30 foot tree, complete with tinsel, candy canes, colored popcorn balls. Firemen and a scared sergeant policeman forlorn and lost, pinned to its top bridge. The fire department finally convinced Artaglia that a ladder was a safe invention for getting down out of tall trees. At the bottom rung. He almost believed it. When his feet touched the ground, they gave him a blanket because he was suffering from shock. He was about to tell the newsreel boys his ordeal. When I faced him.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, Denny. Danny, I was about to tell the newsreel boys my ordeal.

[Narrator]

Just tell me first, Artaglia, because I hardly ever get to the movies.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I'll be with you in just a minute, sir. Oh, Danny, it was awful. It was something awful.

[Narrator]

I only ask this because there's so much about you I don't know. Tartaglia. Why do you climb trees?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, I don't, Danny. The height scares me. When I was a child, a tree threw me on the ground.

[Narrator]

Still you climbed this tree. Why?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Because I'm a policeman.

[Narrator]

That makes sense. But how?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, sure it does, Danny. The kids see me, I am a policeman. They need to put a star on top of that Christmas tree. They ask me because I am a policeman that can do such things. I couldn't let the department down then.

[Narrator]

So you leave Nick Norman alone all by himself because you don't want to let the department down?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I knew you would say that. But I trusted Nick because he is Santa Claus. He told me I could trust him.

[Narrator]

Sure you can, Tortaglia. But what happened to Santa Claus? He's not around.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

That's right. There ain't no Santa Claus, like I've been saying.

[Narrator]

They told me you were saying that. What happened to him, Tartaglia?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, Danny, whilst I was up in the tree pinning the star, but below Me, I saw a big black bulletproof sedan.

[Narrator]

What kind?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

A big, black bullet proof sedan.

[Narrator]

Now I know. Then what happened?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, this big black bulletproof sedan stopped by. Nick, our Santa Claus. Two men got out, talked him for a minute, then took them one by each arm, deposited them in the car, closed the door, and away they sped, careening on two wheels. I yelled to them to stop Danny, but I guess they didn't hear me on account of the hustle and bustle.

[Narrator]

Oh, Santa Claus to Teglia. Where is he? Where'd he go?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, if I was Santa Claus, I know where I'd go.

[Narrator]

Not that it matters, but where?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

To my mother on Christmas Eve. She deserves something like that.

[Narrator]

I'm sure she does.

[Tussie Carnes]

Will we have you now, Sergeant Tartaglia?

[Narrator]

Oh, make good in the newsreels, Tartaglia. This may be your big chance.

[Mrs. Norman]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

How are you, Mrs. Norman?

[Mrs. Norman]

Hi.

[Narrator]

I'm Danny Clover.

[Mrs. Norman]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

May I Come in, Mrs. Norman?

[Mrs. Norman]

Hi.

[Narrator]

I want to talk to you.

[Mrs. Norman]

About what?

[Narrator]

About Nick. About your son.

[Mrs. Norman]

Come in.

[Narrator]

Thanks.

[Mrs. Norman]

In here in the parlor. Sit down.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Mrs. Norman]

No, not on that seat. That one. What do you want to talk about? About Nick.

[Narrator]

Do you know where he is?

[Mrs. Norman]

Don't tell me no more. One day when he was nine years old, Nick said to me. He said, ma, don't ask me where I been no more. Cause I'll lie to you. That's what he said.

[Narrator]

Then you don't know where he is?

[Mrs. Norman]

Don't make me go through that again, sonny. Say, who are you to ask me questions?

[Narrator]

I told you I was.

[Mrs. Norman]

Yeah, yeah, you did. You said you was Danny. That don't mean nothing to me. Oh, you must be the guy come about.

[Narrator]

Aha. I am. That's why I came.

[Mrs. Norman]

Aha. Will you tell me what you come here for?

[Podbean]

For?

[Narrator]

You know, just as you said.

[Mrs. Norman]

Oh, this I like. This lets me play cagey like in the old days. What are you talking about?

[Narrator]

You know, your son, Nick.

[Mrs. Norman]

You got a squirm. More than that, kiddo. What about Nick?

[Narrator]

We want him to be our Santa Claus.

[Mrs. Norman]

Bingo.

[Narrator]

That's good.

[Mrs. Norman]

Oh, it must be a good feeling, a young man like you, big, strong, looking for Santa Claus. Me, I just sat here in my rocking chair, Mrs. Norman, thinking about the times we had. Me and Big Ed, my husband. The time.

[Narrator]

I have to go now, Mrs. Norman. Where's your son?

[Mrs. Norman]

Oh, you made me go through it again. One day when he was 9 years old, Nick said to me.

[Narrator]

Yeah? Oh, thanks, Mrs. Norman.

[Mrs. Norman]

Now, don't ask me where I've been.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Hi, Danny. Did you find Santa Claus?

[Narrator]

No, uh, Tartaglia. What are you doing about it?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Me? Nothing.

[Narrator]

That's good. Anyone to see me?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah, in your office. Hey, Danny. Danny. What are you angry at me for, huh? Danny?

[Podbean]

Hey, Danny, what's this I hear about Santa Claus taking a powder?

[Narrator]

You'll get your Santa Claus. Marty. You still here? Simon Larrabee?

[Simon Larrabee]

Yes, yes, yes. I'm waiting, just as I told you. I'm waiting for my 750rent.

[Podbean]

Can you imagine this kind of Danny on Christmas Eve? He wants his rent. This is a Christmas no Santa Claus, no party. What am I going to tell my constituents?

[Narrator]

It'll work out, Marty. We'll get the money someplace by 8:00, Mr. Shut up, Simon.

[Podbean]

But Danny knows Sandy Claus.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Hold it. Hold it, everybody. I got a solution. Communications, this is Sergeant Tartaglia in Danny Clover's office. An all points bulletin. Pickup man. Description as follows. Height 5ft 11, weight 235. When last seen, was wearing a red suit, a red hat with bells and black boots. Identifying marks. Has a long snow white beard. What's his name? Santi Claus.

[Larry Thor]

You are listening to Broadway's My Beat, starring Larry Thor as Detective Danny Clover. $51,000 in cash and wonderful prizes. Danny Seymour might play Santa Claus to you tonight. And he might fill up your stockings with that 51 grand. If you can identify the phantom voice, listen in just a little later tonight to sing it again.

[Narrator]

Broadway brings you Christmas in a lot of ways. You get dribbled around by the opposing teams of last minute shoppers. You ride backwards on up escalators so you can be in a good position for the down escalators. You get mauled and shoved and picked over and finally you get gift wrapped and sent on your way. My way was out to lunch and back to police headquarters, holding my Christmas stocking in my hand. I had two things. No rent and no Santa Claus. Two nothings which made for an empty holiday. Sergeant Titaglia wasn't enjoying himself either and he expressed himself with sentiment.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Ah, humbug.

[Narrator]

What did you say to Taglia?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Bah, humbug, Danny. That's a Christmas expression I picked up to be used when you wished it was the 4th of July instead.

[Narrator]

Yeah, me too.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

You seen the afternoon papers, Danny? Yeah. Take a look at it.

[Narrator]

Now you look at it for me. What does it say?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, first it has got a picture on the front page of a tree. In the tree is me. Then it says under it, it says Officer Gino Tartaglia. Yeah. Hey, Danny. They Spelled it right. Officer Tartaglia spent the afternoon cavorting in a tree to the delight and applause of all the little. Well, it runs on like that.

[Narrator]

Forget it. It wasn't your fault then.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

That's what I tried to tell Mrs. Tartaglia.

[Narrator]

Doesn't she believe you, Danny?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

She called me on the phone. I said, hello. She said, signal, Tarzan. Then she started laughing, hysterical. I can't get her to talk. Every time I pick up my phone, all I hear is Mrs. Tartaglia laughing.

[Narrator]

I got my problems too.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah. This is probably the first time in the history of Santa Claus that he's ever heisted from his appointed rounds.

[Narrator]

Maybe. Hey, did you get in touch with Nick's mother again like I told you?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, Danny, she ain't nowhere to be found. The old they must have skipped. And the 200 Santa Clauses that the boys investigated, not one of these is Nick Norman under the beard. I'll get it, Danny.

[Narrator]

Thanks.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Sergeant. Huh? Yeah, he's here. It's for you, Danny.

[Narrator]

Thank you. Danny Clover speaking.

[Podbean]

Danny, this is Maxie. You know Maxine Riddell?

[Narrator]

Yeah, how are you, Maxie?

[Podbean]

I'm in lingerie, Danny. Come on down.

[Narrator]

What?

[Podbean]

In the lingerie department at Fletcher's department store. Working. I got news for you.

[Narrator]

News?

[Podbean]

About Nick Norman. You interested, Danny?

[Narrator]

Yeah, yeah, I am. Hold on to everything, Maxie. I'll be right down.

[Podbean]

Here, mister. Take this black nightgown over to that girl over there. She'll gift wrap it up. Hi, Danny. How am I doing?

[Narrator]

Great, Maxie, only great. How long you been working here?

[Podbean]

Only for the Christmas season, Danny. But the way I've been operating, I think maybe they'll keep me on.

[Narrator]

No. No questions about your background?

[Podbean]

You mean about me being a shoplifter?

[Narrator]

Uh huh.

[Podbean]

That's the reason I got the job. The way I was lifting things, I told them it'd be cheaper for them if they put me on the sales force. So they did. So for 22 bucks a week, I'm an honest mouse. Anyway, it's steady.

[Narrator]

Keep it that way, huh, Maxie?

[Podbean]

Anything you say, Danny. Well, now that we've had our tea, I guess you want to know about Nick.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Podbean]

Breaks my heart to be a stoolie. You know how it is, Danny. Me with my former alliances.

[Narrator]

But it's different now.

[Podbean]

Yeah, different. I want it to be different for Tussie too. You remember how it was between me and Tussie?

[Narrator]

How was it?

[Podbean]

It was gorgeous. That's why I'm being a pigeon, Danny. If Nick made up his mind to be a kosher citizen, he should stick to it, not fall back into the arms of a mob like a doll. Who says, Mama?

[Narrator]

Which mob, Maxi?

[Podbean]

Tussie Khan's such a name for a gorilla. Tussie. How do you figure a name like that?

[Narrator]

I don't know him. Where do I find him?

[Podbean]

Tussie just got back from Chicago. He bought the Domino Club. I happened to be passing there on my lunch hour and I saw Nick in a Santa Claus suit drinking grape juice with Tussie. Oh, excuse me, Danny, a customer. Yes, madam. Something for yourself, thanks, Maxie. Podbean, your message amplified.

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[Narrator]

The Domino club in the West 50s is a bright and shiny joint plastered with black glass. It stands close to the ground between two peeling brownstones. When you walk into it, you have the feeling you're walking into the mouth of a beetle. Its walls are lined with black mirrors and its ceiling is draped with folds of scarlet silk. And at 6 o'clock of a Christmas Eve, the boys, complete with Christmas wrapped girls, are beginning to gather. You ask a busboy in white tie and tails, where is Tussie Carnes? And he lifts an eyebrow to a guy standing near the bandstand. A guy grinning like an alley cat while a girl pins a sprig of mistletoe to his lapel. You wait till she kisses Tussie, then Tussie kisses her. But his eyes are open and flicking around the joints. So he sees you and pushes the girl away.

[Tussie Carnes]

Beat it, Blitzen. I got company. Merry Christmas, stranger. You want something from Tussie Boy?

[Narrator]

Same to you. I want Nick Norman.

[Tussie Carnes]

That's a big desire on a holiday. Why you want Nick? Tell Tussie Boy.

[Narrator]

Maybe I gotta explain. I'm Danny Clover, a cop. I want him.

[Tussie Carnes]

Don't everybody come with me, Sonny. Santa's right down at the end of this hallway.

[Narrator]

Give me another drink.

[Tussie Carnes]

Merry Christmas, Melvin.

[Podbean]

Ain't it though, Tussie?

[Tussie Carnes]

Merry Christmas, George.

[Simon Larrabee]

Likewise, I'm sure.

[Tussie Carnes]

I brought you a present, boys.

[Podbean]

Goody likewise.

[Narrator]

Where's Nick Norman?

[Tussie Carnes]

This fella here, he says to Tussie boy, he wants Nick Norman, our Santa Claus.

[Simon Larrabee]

Uh oh, what big guys you have, mister.

[Tussie Carnes]

And you know something else that's plain precious, boys?

[Podbean]

No, do tell us, Tussie.

[Tussie Carnes]

The fella says he is a cop. Isn't that cuter?

[Podbean]

I could die.

[Tussie Carnes]

Yeah, so show the fella Santa Claus, huh, fellas? Merry Christmas, Danny Clover. Oh, Tussie boy said that, didn't he?

[Narrator]

Stay away from me.

[Podbean]

But first we want to wish you on a star like you too crazy.

[Narrator]

Stay away from me.

[Simon Larrabee]

I think that was not enough stars. I'll give them another package.

[Podbean]

You know that Tussie's good dust. He gave us the best Christmas present two fellas could ever have.

[Simon Larrabee]

Don't be greedy, Melvin. Leave.

[Narrator]

Oh, look at that.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

It's all gone.

[Podbean]

Come on, Danny, open your eyes.

[Narrator]

What?

[Podbean]

Yeah, open your eyes, Danny. It's getting late, ain't you all right. Christmas is coming.

[Narrator]

Hey, it's you, Nick Norman.

[Podbean]

Aw, Danny, call me Sandy Claus. That's the nicest alias I got.

[Narrator]

Now look, Nick, I'm going to.

[Podbean]

Oh, here, I'll help you up. Danny, sit on the edge of the sofa there. Yeah, Santa Claus, Danny.

[Narrator]

Santa Claus, huh? So help me, Nick, where I'm gonna put you? You'll spend the next 94 Christmases in solitary.

[Podbean]

Take it easy, Danny. Come on, let's get out of here. I'll be late for that kids party. Come on.

[Narrator]

You mean let's get out of here? Just like that? I don't have to beat my way out of here before. What's all this about, Nick? Santa Claus, you adult today.

[Podbean]

Danny, what's the matter with you?

[Narrator]

But you were kidnapped.

[Podbean]

Kidnapped?

[Narrator]

Me?

[Podbean]

I would want to do a thing like that to jolly old me.

[Narrator]

A man in a tree said two guys pushed you into a car. He only had a bird's eye view. But he said kidnapped.

[Podbean]

Oh, you mean Melvin and George.

[Narrator]

I mean Melvin and George.

[Podbean]

Two pals from Chicago, Daddy. They heard I was out and wanted I should be Sandy Claus to a private party they was giving. That's all harmless, guys, pals, buddies, we enjoy each other.

[Narrator]

Yeah, they enjoyed me too.

[Podbean]

Before they left town for this party, they said to tell you. Oh, wait a minute. I wrote it down. It says, dear Danny Clover, sorry we made a mistake and beat up your head. May the bells ring a joyous Noel for you. Signed xx. That's Melvin and George.

[Narrator]

A mistake, huh?

[Podbean]

Sure, they knew some mob or other might try to get me a santy Clause, they figured you was a mob, so they protected me from you like. Like you was fibbing about being a cop. After they walloped you unconscious, they went through your pockets and saw you was really a cop. So they wrote this note. The running ink, you see here on the note, Danny, that's tears. You'll forgive him, won't you, Danny?

[Narrator]

Yeah. How about your mother?

[Podbean]

Well, that was your error, Danny. You didn't tell mom you was from the police. So she taught. Just like Melvin and George gave me the double talk. Yeah, that's my mom. A grand old dame, you know. You know what I told her once when I was nine years old.

[Narrator]

Yeah? Yeah. My sleigh's outside. I'll give you a ride back to my office.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, that means the whole thing was an error in identification and motive, as they say, huh, Danny?

[Narrator]

That's right. Isn't that right, Santa? Sure.

[Podbean]

I'll tell it to you again if you want.

[Narrator]

No, never mind. What happened to Simon Larrabee?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, he went out for a feast of spud nuts and coffee.

[Narrator]

Hey, you don't look very happy to Tagley.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

No, Danny, I ain't happy. Unhappy, very.

[Narrator]

What's the matter? We've got Santa Claus. Come on, smile. It's going to be a fine Christmas.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I can't, Danny. I just can't. It's Mrs. Tartaglia. Mm, yeah. Now she ain't laughing anymore. The neighbors are laughing and Mrs. Tartaglia is crying.

[Narrator]

Why?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, the later editions of the paper said that Santa Claus was heisted and it was because I was in a tree. Yeah, the papers say I single handed messed up Christmas.

[Narrator]

Bad as that, huh?

[Podbean]

Well, I'll tell you, Tatagli, what about my Christmas party?

[Narrator]

Not yet, son. Wait till you get to the party.

[Podbean]

Say, the press was saying that you were snatched, Sandy. What gives? It said that mobsters grabbed you.

Nah, it was just a little misunderstood.

[Narrator]

That's right, Marty. Nick was grabbed by mobsters, huh?

[Podbean]

Yeah. Well then how'd he get away?

[Narrator]

Sergeant Tartaglia?

[Podbean]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Uh huh. Sergeant Tartaglia. The kind of policeman who tracks down criminals to the lair.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I am, Danny.

[Narrator]

The kind that single handed rescued Santa Claus from the jaws of disaster.

[Podbean]

This guy did that?

[Narrator]

Yep. I'm just about to call the press boys and tell them about it. Aw, Danny, I mean it, Tataglia. Don't be so modest. I'm gonna do just that. Danny, put Marty in a cab to Taglia. I'll send Santa down the squad car in a little while.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah, sure. Well, come on, little tyke. I mean, Marty.

[Podbean]

Okay. Merry Christmas, Danny.

Whatever you tell the press guys, Danny, I'll swear to it.

[Narrator]

Sure. Sure you will.

[Podbean]

That's a fine Christmas you're giving everybody, Danny. How about yourself?

[Narrator]

I'll have fun at the party. I always do.

[Simon Larrabee]

Where is it? Where's my money?

[Narrator]

Oh, look, Mr. Larrabee, it's Christmas.

[Simon Larrabee]

Of course it's Christmas. That's why I want my rent, so I can have a merry Christmas.

[Podbean]

Hey, Danny, who is this guy that needs rent to have a merry Christmas?

[Narrator]

This is Simon Larrabee. He wants a year's rent in advance for that warehouse. So the kids are having a party or else. No party. Yes.

[Simon Larrabee]

That's who I am.

[Podbean]

Oh, like that, huh? So that's how you are, huh, Simon?

[Simon Larrabee]

Stop breathing in my face, Santa Claus.

[Podbean]

All them kids wanting to have a party. Unless Simon, like you, wants to louse it up.

[Narrator]

Put him down there.

[Podbean]

I ain't doing nothing, Danny. Just holding Simon up so I can breathe in his face.

[Simon Larrabee]

Please.

[Podbean]

I want you to think about something, Simon. Think about all those kids that are looking forward to that Christmas party, which ain't gonna happen on account of you. Think about, is it?

[Simon Larrabee]

All right, I'm thinking, I'm thinking.

[Podbean]

Yes, maybe you could think better with a pen in your hand, Simon. A pen that will write out a receipt for a year's rent in advance, huh, Simon?

[Mrs. Norman]

Of course, of course, of course.

[Simon Larrabee]

Oh, Christmas spirit and all that.

[Larry Thor]

Yes.

[Simon Larrabee]

I'll get my receipt book. Ah. Oh, yeah. Oh, my. Well, I haven't felt so good in years. Ah, yes. Here you are, Mr. Glover. A receipt for a year's rent in advance. And tell the darlings Merry Christmas with this.

[Narrator]

Yeah, yeah, I will.

[Podbean]

Ain't he a nice fella, Danny? Come on, nice fella. I'll take you to a party. Merry Christmas, Danny.

[Simon Larrabee]

It's a merry, merry, merry Christmas, Danny.

[Narrator]

Merry Christmas. Yeah. Merry Christmas. On Christmas Eve, Broadway is almost like any other place in the world. The bells ring out, the horns blow, there's laughter. The Mazdas on the trans luck spell out slowly, word by word, peace on earth, goodwill to men. And you read it. You believe it, because on Christmas Eve, you believe a miracle. Then a whirl of confetti is in your eyes, and you're pushed along with a crowd. And you never see the next news bulletin. You don't try to look back. It's Broadway, the merriest, the shiniest, the lonesomest mile in the world. Broadway, My beat.

[Larry Thor]

Broadway's my beat. Stars Larry Thor as Detective Danny Clover. And is written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. The musical score was composed by Alexander Courage and conducted by Wilbur Hatch, and the program was produced and directed by Elliot Lewis. The cast tonight included Charles Calvert, Gil Stratton Jr. Howard McNear, Hal March, Bert Holland, Shep Menken, Estelle Dodge and Peggy We.