Nero Wolfe: Midnight Ride 03/16/1951

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: Nero Wolfe – “Midnight Ride” (03/16/1951)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives
Host: Choice Classic Radio
Episode Date: March 3, 2026
Original Air Date: March 16, 1951

---

Overview

In this classic old-time radio episode, the great detective Nero Wolfe and his quick-witted assistant Archie Goodwin are swept into a nighttime mystery when a frantic phone call from an old acquaintance hints at peril and intrigue on Ronaldo Road. The case quickly entangles personal histories, a midnight ride with deadly intentions, a cryptic recording, and a suspected murder with a fortune at stake. Featuring Sydney Greenstreet as Nero Wolfe, the story is rich with the witty banter and clever problem-solving that defines the beloved characters.

---

Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

1. The Inciting Calls and Gathering the Cast (00:22–08:33)

• Dr. Thrummig’s Distress Call

  • Dr. Thrummig, Wolfe’s dentist, calls in a panic about a friend in trouble, which pulls Archie and Wolfe into the case.
  • Wolfe is initially reluctant (“Money is the curse of our times.” – Nero Wolfe, 01:06).

• A Mysterious Woman in Peril

  • Archie receives a cryptic and desperate call:
    • “Archie, please come at once...please, oh, please...you and Nero...” — Gloria Barnsworth (02:59)
  • The call is abruptly interrupted by a scream.

• Piecing Together Gloria’s Identity

  • Dr. Thrummig clarifies that Gloria Barnsworth is an old classmate but does not know her current whereabouts.
  • Wolfe deduces that “Ronaldo Road West” likely refers to “Ronaldo Road, Westchester.”

2. Kidnapping and The Midnight Ride (08:33–11:25)

• Menacing Visitors

  • Dr. Gunther, accompanied by a driver, arrives at Wolfe’s office, brandishing a gun and marching Archie, Dr. Thrummig, and Wolfe at gunpoint to a car for a “midnight ride.”
  • Wolfe and Archie banter with their captors, buying time and gathering clues as they are driven into the countryside.

• A Deadly Encounter

  • At a secluded spot, the driver (Mike Jordan) is ordered to shoot Archie and Dr. Thrummig but instead intentionally misses.
  • The true villain, Dr. Gunther, kills Mike, framing him for the intended murder.

3. Unraveling the Clues: The Recording and The Nightclub Connection (12:04–19:54)

• Identifying the Driver

  • Archie recognizes the murdered driver as Mike Jordan, previously cleared by Wolfe in another case.

• The Entertainer “Violet” and Home Recordings

  • Archie seeks out Violet, a nightclub entertainer and Mike’s girlfriend, to learn more.
    • “What we want to know is, where's Mike now? What's he doing? Can you tell us where he lives?” — Archie (14:11)
  • Violet reveals Mike’s home address and mentions a set of phonograph recordings they made.

• Key Evidence: Telephone Clicks

  • By retrieving Mike’s home phonograph and slowing down a recording, Wolfe identifies a phone number dialed by counting rotary clicks (19:06).

4. The Mansion on Ronaldo Road: The Final Showdown (20:14–28:31)

• At the Barnsworth Estate

  • Archie, Wolfe, and Thrummig find the sprawling house and meet the butler, Jennings, and a young woman named Gloria, who appears distressed and is forced upstairs by “Uncle” Gunther.

• Revelations

  • Gloria’s aunt is bedridden, presumed dead by Gunther, but Wolfe discovers she is alive, suffering from heavy narcotic sedation.
    • “She isn’t dead. No signs of pulse... Respiration barely perceptible. She’s under heavy narcosis.” — Nero Wolfe (24:33)

• Confrontation and Motive

  • Wolfe publicly accuses “Dr. Gunther” of being Gloria’s husband, posing as a doctor to force her aunt to change her will.
  • Inspector Kramer arrives; Gunther is accused of orchestrating the kidnapping and attempted murder of Archie and Dr. Thrummig, using Mike Jordan as a pawn.

• The Tell-Tale Slip

  • Wolfe points out Gunther’s critical mistake:
    • “When he escorted us...he said to you, Archie, ‘if you and your brother and Mr. Wolf will step this way’… How would he believe Dr. Thrummig was your brother? No one mentioned it…” — Nero Wolfe (27:34)

5. Witty Epilogue

• The Case Resolved and Wolfe’s True Motives
  • With the case solved, Wolfe reveals to Archie that he didn’t come out solely for Archie’s sake, but also to attend an orchid lovers’ convention.
    • “Oh, but I didn’t do it just for you. There is an orchid lovers convention this morning at 9 o’ clock.” — Nero Wolfe (27:59)
  • Archie groans at being roped in:
    • “Oh, brother…” — Archie Goodwin (28:14)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On money and obligations:

  • “Money is the curse of our times.” — Nero Wolfe (01:06)
  • “Yeah, man, bring on all the curses that is available.” — Archie Goodwin (01:09)

• On Gloria’s desperate call:

  • “Archie? Please come at once. Please. Oh, please. You and Nero.” — Gloria Barnsworth (02:59)

• Comic rapport in jeopardy:

  • “You’re fired.” — Nero Wolfe
  • “Naturally.” — Archie Goodwin (02:49–02:52)

• Wolfe’s insight into Gunther’s identity:

  • “First by speech, Baron, he is undoubtedly a Canadian. But you must have missed the most important slipper…” — Nero Wolfe (27:25)

• On Wolfe’s priorities:

  • “I have another appointment. The inspector can handle it from here on.” — Nero Wolfe (26:56)

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:22–01:09 — The dentist’s distress call and the mysterious phone plea
• 02:52–04:39 — Gloria’s call and its abrupt, chilling end
• 08:00–10:45 — The abduction, midnight ride, failed execution
• 12:04–13:47 — Identifying the dead driver, connecting to Violet
• 14:40–15:32 — Interview with Violet (the nightclub singer)
• 16:19–18:09 — Discovering and playing the home audio recording
• 19:54–20:20 — Slowing down the record and decoding the phone number
• 20:14–22:38 — Arrival at the mansion, meeting the young Gloria and Dr. Gunther
• 24:30–25:06 — Wolfe identifies the elderly Gloria is alive but drugged
• 26:08–27:59 — Wolfe unmasks Gunther, connects evidence, and calls in Kramer
• 27:59–28:14 — Wolfe’s true motive: attending the orchid convention

---

Tone and Style

The episode features classic hardboiled banter between Archie and Wolfe, with satirical jabs at Wolfe’s reluctance to work and love of orchids. Dialogue is sharp, fast-paced, and sometimes tongue-in-cheek, balancing suspense with humor throughout.

---

Conclusion

This episode, “Midnight Ride,” is a quintessential Nero Wolfe mystery: layered with clues, false leads, dramatic twists, and subtle humor. Ultimately, Wolfe’s meticulous logic and Archie’s street smarts untangle a complex plot of family betrayal, murder, and greed—all wrapped in the nostalgic charm of golden-age radio drama.

---

Transcript

[Archie Goodwin]

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]

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, the ringing of that phone bell brings you mystery adventure.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf's office, Archie Goodwin speaking.

[Nero Wolfe]

Who?

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, yeah. Hello, Doc, how are you? What? In trouble?

[Nero Wolfe]

You? More trouble? You trick trouble. Archie, hang up.

[Archie Goodwin]

It's our dentist, Dr. Thrummig.

[Nero Wolfe]

Let him wait. We never can find him when we need him. Tell him it's after office hours.

[Archie Goodwin]

Doc, Doc, you're talking so fast I can't make head and the tails of it. Look, listen, Doc, come on over here and we'll be able to hear you. It'll only take you a few minutes. Right.

[Nero Wolfe]

You consistently disobey me, I want to work on my paper about Odontoglasms.

[Archie Goodwin]

Doc Trummick has a friend who's in some trouble and he needs our advice. Besides, we owe Doc a fair sized little bill. Remember?

[Nero Wolfe]

Money again, Auntie, Money is the curse of our times.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, man, bring on all the curses that is available.

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, it's that renowned genius who is the bulkiest, balkiest, most ponderous and most brilliant detective in the world. Yes, none other than that chairborne mass of unpredictable intellect, Nero Wolf, created by Rex Stout and brought to you in a new series of adventures over this NBC network in the person of Mr. Sydney Greenstreet.

[Archie Goodwin]

This story is one we refer to as the Case of the Midnight Ride. Oh yeah, there was a ride all right, but it would never have happened if we hadn't received another phone call a few minutes after our Dr. Thrummig phone. It was late in the evening and Nero Wolf was studying his paper on orchids while I was absorbed in playing some phonograph records.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, Archie, not so loud. I can't possibly think when you play that infernal thing at such volume.

[Archie Goodwin]

What was that you said, boss?

[Nero Wolfe]

I said I can't understand why you can't get music from a phonograph without vibrating the top off the instrument.

[Archie Goodwin]

That's right, that's right.

[Nero Wolfe]

I can't understand why the neighbors haven't called the police. Do you hear that, Argie? Argy?

[Archie Goodwin]

All right, I'll answer.

[Nero Wolfe]

You're fired.

[Archie Goodwin]

Naturally.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hello?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Hello, is this Archie Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

I know Mr. Wolf's. What? Me?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Archie?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, who is this?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

I need help. Archie, please come at once. Please. Oh, please. You and Nero.

[Narrator]

Who is this?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

This is Gloria. No, no, don't.

[Archie Goodwin]

Gloria who?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Reynaldo? West.

[Narrator]

Hello?

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello? Well, did you hear that?

[Nero Wolfe]

Another female by. What happened, boss?

[Archie Goodwin]

Who do you know named Gloria?

[Nero Wolfe]

Gloria? I know nothing about anyone named Gloria.

[Archie Goodwin]

She said her name was Gloria something. I couldn't quite get the last name, but she did say Ronaldo Road.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, it's quite possible that she resides on Ronaldo Road.

[Archie Goodwin]

First she asked if this was Archie Goodwin speaking. And before I had a chance to say anything, she asked me to come to her at once. She needed help for you to bring me along. I mean, for me to bring Nero along.

[Nero Wolfe]

You don't even know what you're talking about.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, she said she was Gloria Barr of Mars, something like that. And then she said Ronaldo Road West. And then the scream. And that's all there was the usual

[Nero Wolfe]

pattern of your experience with women.

[Archie Goodwin]

Sounded like a hand was slapped over her mouth or she was grabbed by the throat. Bring Nero with you.

[Nero Wolfe]

I am taking no more assignments this week.

[Archie Goodwin]

Ronaldo Road west, where is it?

[Nero Wolfe]

I don't believe there is a Ronaldo Road West. If I remember correctly, Ronaldo Road runs north and south and is approximately 12 miles long.

[Archie Goodwin]

But she said west.

[Nero Wolfe]

What she probably tried to say when she was interrupted was Reynaldo Road West Chester, Westchester.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Of course.

[Nero Wolfe]

Asked Inspector Kramer to try to check on that phone call.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'll ask him to try.

[Nero Wolfe]

By the way, do you expect to find this Gloria alive, Archie?

[Archie Goodwin]

I certainly hope so.

[Nero Wolfe]

And are you aware that if someone strangled her, then they must have heard her speak your name?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, and yours too. Shall I open it, boss?

[Nero Wolfe]

Why not? Let us face it. Archie.

[Narrator]

Huh?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

It's me, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Wait till I slide the night chain off, Dr. Thrummit.

[Dr. Thrummig]

My nose.

[Archie Goodwin]

I forgot all about you, Doc.

[Nero Wolfe]

Where have you been?

[Dr. Thrummig]

It's only been three or four minutes. I have never had such a disturbing night since I had my first patient. But at first I was afraid to leave the house.

[Nero Wolfe]

And why were you so afraid, Dr. Thrummy?

[Dr. Thrummig]

There were two men sitting in front of my place in a car. Oh, good evening, Nero.

[Nero Wolfe]

Were they waiting for you, Doctor?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Why, not very likely. Since she called me, I've been so completely unnerved.

[Archie Goodwin]

Here, Doctor, have some branch.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no.

[Dr. Thrummig]

You know, I never. Well, that is. Well, a small one. I am upset, you understand, Archie. Oh, that's Bessie.

[Nero Wolfe]

Just who caught you and upset you, sir?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, hello, Neera. Did someone call me?

[Archie Goodwin]

When you phoned me frantically that a woman called you, I couldn't understand you on the phone.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, yes, yes. Poor Gloria, she was cut off.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, glory. Did you Say Gloria.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, didn't I? I thought I did.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, dear.

[Dr. Thrummig]

What did you say?

[Archie Goodwin]

I said Gloria.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, my. Isn't that strange? I thought that's what I said. No, no, no more, please.

[Archie Goodwin]

We just had a call from Gloria. Who is Gloria?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, you remember. We all went to school together. That is. Oh, you do too remember Gloria. You know, she was just.

[Nero Wolfe]

What is Gloria's last name, Dr. Thrumming?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, it was Gloria Barnsworth. I don't know what it is now.

[Archie Goodwin]

That's what she was trying to say to me. Barnsworth.

[Nero Wolfe]

Did she tell you where to find her?

[Dr. Thrummig]

No, she didn't. Oh, dear me. She was just about to tell me when I said I'd call you and Archie and get your help, and then she was cut off.

[Archie Goodwin]

How do you know she's the Gloria Barnsworth you knew? And I'm supposed to know My.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Could you open the windows?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why, yes.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, sorry, Doc. The air outside's contaminated.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, is that so?

[Archie Goodwin]

With what oxygen?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, these factories. Factories. Fact. Oh, well, I found her picture in an old class photo. Here it is.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, now I remember. But, Doc, you and this gal were several years ahead of me in school. I'm not in this picture. So she must be about 40 now.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, gentlemen, you both seem to have the situation well in hand now. So if you'll excuse me, I will retire to my room.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, but we don't have anything figured out yet.

[Nero Wolfe]

But you will let me know in the morning how successful you have been. Good night.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, anyway, a woman called here, and just as she was about to tell me who she was in her address, she was cut off as though she was strangled.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Archie, did you say someone strangled her?

[Archie Goodwin]

I don't know, Doc. I hope not. Well, let's start our search along Ronaldo Road.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Archie. Archie. Don't answer it. They're after me. The men in the car. They saw me come in here after you.

[Dr. Gunther]

Nonsense.

[Dr. Thrummig]

They found out Gloria phoned me. Don't let them in.

[Archie Goodwin]

Now, how could you know all that?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Dear me. Do you mind a short one? I'm so weak tonight. Please, Archie, don't open it. I warned.

[Archie Goodwin]

Just relax, Doc. I'll handle this. Good evening.

[Dr. Gunther]

Evening. Are you Archie Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Uh, no.

[Nero Wolfe]

He is.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes. No, I'm not. He is.

[Dr. Gunther]

Put up your hands. Unhook the night chain. Now, just turn off this light.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, I told you. I told you.

[Dr. Gunther]

Where's Wolf?

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, he's been in bed for hours.

[Dr. Gunther]

And who is this little man?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Why, I don't.

[Narrator]

You know.

[Archie Goodwin]

This is my. My brother. Brother? Cuthbert.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, he's quite right. I'm a bit older than he is.

[Nero Wolfe]

Shut up.

[Dr. Gunther]

All right, get your coats and hats off that wreck.

[Archie Goodwin]

What for?

[Dr. Gunther]

We're all going for a little ride along the river and it's a bit chilly.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, dear me, I. I feel faint. I'm getting dizzy.

[Nero Wolfe]

Get your hat.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, sir.

[Dr. Gunther]

And put that bottle down.

[Nero Wolfe]

But it's so cold out.

[Dr. Gunther]

Get along. Here's the car now, Mr. Goodwin. Hand over that gun in your pocket.

[Archie Goodwin]

But I haven't got. Okay. There you are.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you.

[Dr. Gunther]

Now get in the car. You get in the front seat with the driver. Goodwin, your brother can get back with me.

[Nero Wolfe]

Okay.

[Dr. Gunther]

You know where we're going, driver?

[Nero Wolfe]

Yeah, yeah, but what.

[Narrator]

Get going. But do you know who this guy is?

[Nero Wolfe]

I do.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why?

[Narrator]

Well, now look, I. Well, this guy is Archie Goodwin.

[Dr. Gunther]

What if he is?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, this won't work.

[Narrator]

I mean, I didn't know it was gonna be Goodwin. He's with Mero Wolf.

[Archie Goodwin]

What's your name, pal? I can't see you, but I seem to recognize your voice.

[Narrator]

Well. Well, you see, it was like this. I was in a.

[Dr. Gunther]

Are you gonna shut up and start driving?

[Nero Wolfe]

Okay, okay, I'm.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Now see here, it's getting very late. I. I don't like this. Where are you taking us?

[Archie Goodwin]

Keep calm, doc.

[Narrator]

Yeah, don't get excited.

[Archie Goodwin]

Just take it easy. Listen, Goodwin, I got a wreckage for you. What's the idea back of all this, friend?

[Dr. Gunther]

We're off the road here, driver.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, but we're way out in the country.

[Dr. Gunther]

Now, we'll all get out here.

[Archie Goodwin]

Now wait a minute.

[Nero Wolfe]

I can't get out.

[Dr. Gunther]

You too, driver.

[Narrator]

Oh, now wait a second. What's the big idea?

[Dr. Gunther]

Now, all of you start walking over to that clump of trees.

[Nero Wolfe]

Go on.

[Dr. Thrummig]

What's he going to do?

[Archie Goodwin]

What do you think?

[Dr. Gunther]

Okay, that's good. Just stand there. Now get out your gun, driver.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, now wait a minute. This is what.

[Dr. Gunther]

Get out your gun and don't turn around, driver.

[Archie Goodwin]

Now let him have it.

[Dr. Gunther]

Go on or I'll kill you.

[Narrator]

I don't go in for this kind of stuff. Besides killing us.

[Nero Wolfe]

Nip your candy to them.

[Archie Goodwin]

Go on.

[Dr. Gunther]

Now just drop your gun on the ground there. Now, I will take Goodwin's gun and after I finish with it, I'll just toss it over beside his body.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hey, now wait a minute.

[Dr. Gunther]

Notice I have gloves on.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hey, Doc. Dr. Thrummy. You all right, doc? Oh.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, Archie, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I got you into this. I can't last long.

[Archie Goodwin]

Where are you hit.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Tell Nero I make him a present of his new bridge work. I put in.

[Archie Goodwin]

Let me have a look at you.

[Dr. Thrummig]

I wanted to die in my bed with my friends around me.

[Archie Goodwin]

You're not bleeding.

[Dr. Thrummig]

I wanted the choir to sing. What? I'm not bleeding.

[Archie Goodwin]

No.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Are you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Nope. The driver was a bad shot. He missed both of them.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Then what am I doing down here on the ground?

[Archie Goodwin]

You fainted at the first shot. I dropped purposely on the second shot. He missed every time. Come on, get up from there. We're very lucky people.

[Dr. Thrummig]

What became of them?

[Archie Goodwin]

Emmy. My gun.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Is this your gun?

[Archie Goodwin]

Rapidness. Handkerchief. Come over here.

[Pacific Source Representative]

Jack Harndale was helping his daughter Emily lift an awkward dresser up a staircase when he slipped and fell backwards. A week later, Emily asked him how he was doing.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm good.

[Pacific Source Representative]

Truth was, he wasn't good. Jack needed help. Then the darndest thing happened. Emily called Pacific Source.

[Archie Goodwin]

My health plan.

[Pacific Source Representative]

Jack learned that Pacific Source provides members with support beyond healthcare. In Jack's case, we got him in touch with the local food bank.

[Archie Goodwin]

You guys do that?

[Pacific Source Representative]

Yes, we do, Jack. Pacific Source Health Plan.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yep. Here he is. The driver.

[Dr. Thrummig]

And he's dead. This is dreadful, Archie. What do we do now?

[Archie Goodwin]

You got a lighter?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Here's my pocket flash.

[Archie Goodwin]

There's his gun beside him. Don't touch it. Have a look through his pocket. I wish I knew what he meant when he said he had a record for me someplace. Picture of a girl says, to Mike from Violet. Mike? Mike. This fellow's face is certainly familiar, but I can't. Hey, wait a minute.

[Narrator]

Mike.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mike. Mike Jordan. That's it.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Mike Jordan. Yeah.

[Archie Goodwin]

Wolf cleared him on a frame up three years ago. And this. This girl, Violet, is an entertainer in a nightclub downtown.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Violet? Yes. But what does all this have to do with Gloria?

[Archie Goodwin]

Strange. There's no other identification on him. Maybe the other guy took it off of him. Well, now we gotta find Violet.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

How?

[Dr. Thrummig]

We can't even find Gloria.

[Archie Goodwin]

I think now that this guy, Mike Jordan missed us deliberately. Let's start hoofing it back to that last crossroad. There was a telephone there. I'll call Nero. So that's the story so far. Mr. Wolf. Sorry to wake you up, but we wanted you to know.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, we did. Oh, such a night.

[Nero Wolfe]

What was your reason for telling the man that Dr. Thrummig was your brother?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, I didn't want him to know that it was Doc because Gloria had called Doc and he must have known about it.

[Nero Wolfe]

And the driver turned out to be Mike Jordan. And what did Mike say to you in the car?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, he didn't finish, but he said, I got a record for you, Goodwin. It. And then the man shot him up.

[Nero Wolfe]

And when you located Violet at her place, he was cataloging recordings. Bring it in here now. Archie, sit down. Dr. Thrummy.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, yes, I am a bit weary.

[Archie Goodwin]

Come in, Violet. Violet, this is.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Hey, wait a minute. You. You're Nero Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sedan is right.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

What's the idea, Mr. Goodman? Why'd you bring me here?

[Nero Wolfe]

Will you look at this photo? It says, to Mike from Violet.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Where'd you get this?

[Archie Goodwin]

I got it. Violet, what we want to know is where's Mike now? What's he doing? Can you tell us where he lives?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

What's Mike done now?

[Nero Wolfe]

Can you tell us his address?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Maybe.

[Nero Wolfe]

Do you know who he has been working for?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Yeah, a guy with a big car and a lot of dough.

[Nero Wolfe]

You seen this man?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Yeah, kind of a good looking guy. I think his name is Durant or something like that.

[Nero Wolfe]

I understand you've been occupying yourself with cataloging some phonograph recordings.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Yeah, that's what I was doing when Mr. Goodman came in. Mike's got a home recorder over at his place.

[Nero Wolfe]

Do you have all the records that have been made on the machine so far?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No, just what we made in the last week. Lots more at his place.

[Nero Wolfe]

Do you and Mike know of a woman named Gloria?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No. At least I don't remember.

[Dr. Thrummig]

It was on Ronaldo Road. Gloria Barnsworth was her maiden name.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Where is this Ronaldo Road? I don't know.

[Archie Goodwin]

It's in Westchester, we think.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

I've never been there. What Has Mike done, Mr. Wolf? Is it bad?

[Nero Wolfe]

As a matter of fact, Mike is in the clear. There is no charge against him and there never will be. You haven't seen him for a couple of days?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No, and I never go to his apartment unless him and some guests are there. Do you know where he is?

[Nero Wolfe]

Will you give me the address of his apartment?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Okay. 324 East 35th Street.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you very much, young lady.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

What's all so mysterious? Something's happened to Mike. I can tell by the way you talk.

[Nero Wolfe]

Very well. Archie, you have a special visit to make. Look for the machine. And it's quite late, so you had best hurry.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, I'm going with you, Archie. Good night, Nero. I mean, good morning. Oh, I don't even know what day it is.

[Archie Goodwin]

Come along, Violet. We'll drop you at your place first. Well, there we are, Doc.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes. Has his name right on it. Mike Jordan.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, we're fairly certain that no One's in there. What do you know? I didn't lock. The lights are on.

[Dr. Thrummig]

I know, I know.

[Archie Goodwin]

Listen.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes, A light humming noise. But where is it coming from?

[Archie Goodwin]

Overnight corner those wall cabinets.

[Dr. Thrummig]

There it is. A radio and a phonograph combination.

[Archie Goodwin]

This and a recording machine. And the recording arm's still down on the record. Just lift it off and put the playback needle on. There we are.

[Mike Jordan]

But look, I don't go in for that kind of stuff.

[Dr. Gunther]

You've been working for me for several

[Mike Jordan]

weeks now, haven't you? Well, sure, boss, but I never went in for no kind of stuff. We're gonna pick this guy up and take him for a little ride. It ain't my line. All you do is drive the car. Okay, I'll take a chance. But remember, I am just the driver of your car if anything happens. I didn't know nothing.

[Dr. Gunther]

You'll do just as I say.

[Mike Jordan]

Incidentally, I know a lot about you. Things the police would like to know. Okay, okay. I'm working for you. I came out to Ronaldo Road to make an honest living. But I see I'm right back where I started and worse. I just ain't got a chance. Oh, remind me. I've got to phone the place.

[Dr. Gunther]

Hello?

[Mike Jordan]

How is it? I see. Yes. Yes, tonight. Yes, tonight, just as planned. Oh, yes, yes, he's all right. Don't worry. Goodbye. Have you got a gun? Sure, but never used it. You won't need it. But I want you to bring it along just in case I do. Now, you've got nothing to worry about. I'll take care of everything and nothing will be traced to either of us. You got your money? Let's go, Mike. It's getting late.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, Doc, he did say Ronaldo Road.

[Archie Goodwin]

That's where our Gloria called from. So they're all tied in together. Come along, Doc. We're going back to Mr. Wolf again. We'll just take this record with us.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, Archie, I guess this phonograph was worthwhile after all. Yes, indeed.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Hey, don't you find this a very interesting recording, Nero?

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm sure we're going to add it to our collection.

[Nero Wolfe]

And these are the two men who took you on the right?

[Dr. Thrummig]

That's right. But we're really no further along in our desire to help Gloria.

[Archie Goodwin]

That's right. Where on Ronaldo Road, Boss, if we can find the address, will you go with us down there or over there or wherever it is?

[Nero Wolfe]

I might. And you already have the crew to the address we have?

[Archie Goodwin]

Where?

[Nero Wolfe]

In that phonograph recording Play it again, RG Just the part where he uses the telephone and slow the speed way down. Then take down the numbers I call off.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Cheeks.

[Narrator]

Five,

[Archie Goodwin]

three.

[Nero Wolfe]

Two. Two,

[Dr. Thrummig]

three.

[Nero Wolfe]

That's enough. By slowing down the record, we were able to count the clicks of each number he used on the dial. Now, there's the number the man called. We hope it is on Ronaldo Road. Have Inspector Kramer get the address of that number combination and we are ready to make our assault.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'll call Kramer and I'll get the car out. It hadn't been out for weeks. Maybe it won't start.

[Nero Wolfe]

No such luck, Archie.

[Dr. Gunther]

I assure you, no such luck.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, here it is. I think we must go through this big gate.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes. Yes. There's the number 23. Ronaldo.

[Nero Wolfe]

Slip up to the entrance as softly as possible. Turn out your headlamps.

[Archie Goodwin]

Here we are, boss. Easy now. Getting out.

[Nero Wolfe]

Don't pull, Doctor.

[Dr. Gunther]

Don't pull on me.

[Archie Goodwin]

There we are.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now, come along.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yeah. Spooky sort of place, isn't it?

[Archie Goodwin]

All big houses are like that. Must be 20 rooms.

[Dr. Thrummig]

There's not a light in the place.

[Nero Wolfe]

Use the knocker. Archie.

[Dr. Gunther]

Uh.

[Narrator]

Oh.

[Archie Goodwin]

Stand back. Here comes somebody. Yes? Uh, is Gloria in? What? Gloria. And who are you?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Uh, we are here to see Gloria. Come, come.

[Narrator]

It's this hour of the night? Certainly not.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Just a moment. She's an old friend of mine. Yes, and his, too.

[Nero Wolfe]

He's Archie, my good man. What is your name?

[Archie Goodwin]

Jennings, sir. In the household is in bed at this hour.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

What is it, Jennings? Who's at the door?

[Archie Goodwin]

They're asking for you, Miss Gloria. For me?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Well, come in, gentlemen. You may go, Jennings, please.

[Archie Goodwin]

Very well, miss. Just as you say.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Now, what did you want?

[Archie Goodwin]

Say, doc, is this the Gloria?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, I. I don't know. It doesn't seem.

[Archie Goodwin]

Are you Gloria?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Yes.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, why did you call us?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Oh, then. Then you're Archie Goodwin?

[Dr. Thrummig]

Yes. And I'm Dr. Thrumming.

[Narrator]

But you are.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

I called you because I need your help desperately.

[Dr. Gunther]

Gloria, what is going on here? This.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh.

[Dr. Gunther]

And who are these gentlemen?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Well, you. You see, Uncle, Mr. Goodwin came.

[Nero Wolfe]

Came to see you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Well, I.

[Dr. Gunther]

Because I. I think you'd better go to your room, my dear. Don't you think that is best? Your room and rest?

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No, no, I don't want to. I won't.

[Dr. Gunther]

Go to your room.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No, no, I won't. I can't. All those people walk in and out. They want to kill me.

[Dr. Gunther]

Jennings, take her to her room.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Come along.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No, no, I won't. I Won't let me go. There are hundreds of people. They'll kill me.

[Narrator]

Come along.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

No, no, please.

[Dr. Gunther]

I'm so sorry, but there's nothing we can do with her now. Mr. Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, what is it you wish?

[Nero Wolfe]

Mikhail called you uncle. Oh, pardon me. I'm near a wolf.

[Dr. Gunther]

How do you do, Mr. Wolf? Yes, she called me uncle, but I'm not really a relative. I'm Dr. Gunther, retained by the family. As you can see, the girl is

[Archie Goodwin]

quite ill. Oh, well, we're old friends of Gloria's and we'd like to see her.

[Dr. Gunther]

But you just saw her.

[Nero Wolfe]

We don't refer to this young lady. We have in mind the elderly gloria. Now, come, Dr. Gunther. You know to whom we refer.

[Mike Jordan]

What, you?

[Dr. Gunther]

You mean the girl's aunt? Well, it's very strange if you are a friend of the aunt's that you are not aware of her condition.

[Archie Goodwin]

Her condition?

[Dr. Gunther]

Yes, the aunt has been bedridden for nearly a year. Paralysis. And it seems to be most coincidental with your visit. But she passed away this afternoon.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Died, Gloria.

[Archie Goodwin]

This afternoon? But how could that be?

[Nero Wolfe]

We'd like to see the remains, Dr. Ganther.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, we'd like to see the remains. Just where are they?

[Dr. Gunther]

They are here, mister. And if you and your brother and Mr. Wolfe will step this way to the small parlour. There you are, gentlemen. I'll leave you alone. I'll be in the library.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, gentlemen, there she is. What do you say? Do you recognize this woman?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, yeah, it's been many years, but that is Gloria Barnsworth.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Well, good heavens. Yes, it's Gloria, all right. Poor woman. I remember now. She married a very wealthy manufacturer named Kenton who died. She's remained a widow, I guess.

[Nero Wolfe]

He said she died this afternoon. Are you sure it was an elderly woman who called you this evening? And by the way, just feel her forehead.

[Archie Goodwin]

It's warm. She couldn't have been dead more than an hour.

[Nero Wolfe]

She isn't dead. No signs of pulse. Your cigarette case, please. Very slight moisture. Respiration barely perceptible. She's under heavy narcosis. Been given a heavy dose lately.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Let's get out of here.

[Nero Wolfe]

Wait. Do you recognize the uncle? Rather. Dr. Gunther?

[Archie Goodwin]

No. Do you throw me?

[Dr. Thrummig]

No.

[Nero Wolfe]

Does he look like the man who took you for a ride?

[Archie Goodwin]

It was too dark, boss, and he was all bundled up in heavy clothes.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Let's get out of here.

[Nero Wolfe]

That door was locked after we came in.

[Archie Goodwin]

He's right. Come on, Doc, let's put our shoulders to it. One, two, go.

[Dr. Gunther]

Well, gentlemen, what on earth does this mean?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why'd you lock the door?

[Dr. Gunther]

Oh, I'm sorry. It's a spring lock. I had no intention of locking the door.

[Nero Wolfe]

And I suggest, Archie, that you have it repaired. And now, Archie, will you step to the door and let Inspector Kramering. He followed us up the driveway. About time. Getting cold down here. Inspector Kramer, this is Dr. Gunther. In that room is a woman he claims is dead. She is actually under the heavy influence of narcotics.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah? Who is she? Mrs. Gloria Kenton, widow of the wealthy shoe manufacturer.

[Nero Wolfe]

And this attractive young lady coming down the stairs is supposed to be mentally ill, which I do not believe. Her name is Gloria too. A niece of the elder Gloria that

[Dr. Thrummig]

Archie and I both knew. Gloria Barnsworth.

[Dr. Gunther]

Yeah, yeah, I get it, I get it.

[Nero Wolfe]

And I suggest that this man is not a doctor, but his young, glorious husband. And they're attempting to force the Aunt Gloria to change her will in their favor.

[Dr. Gunther]

This is utterly ridiculous.

[Archie Goodwin]

The aunt was able to phone Doc Trummigan me tonight, but she was apparently caught in the act.

[Nero Wolfe]

And this man, who is posing as the uncle, hired Mike Jordan to drive his car while he picked up Archie with the intent of killing him.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, this.

[Dr. Thrummig]

This is the same man.

[Archie Goodwin]

The same.

[Nero Wolfe]

And if Mike Jordan hadn't recognized Archie, both of you would be quite dead. This man double crossed Mike and killed him, believing that the whole thing would be blamed on Mike. Mike deliberately missed.

[Archie Goodwin]

All right, so what's he going to do about it? Come on, let's get out of here fast.

[Dr. Gunther]

Look out.

[Nero Wolfe]

He's a cop. All right, now get those hands up and keep them up. Come along, Archie. I have another appointment. The inspector can handle it from here on.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh.

[Gloria Barnsworth]

Oh, dear me.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Oh, what happened? Am I all right?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, you just fainted again when the shooting started.

[Dr. Thrummig]

Really?

[Nero Wolfe]

Quite fortunate that Mike Jordan recorded that conversation. Fortunate indeed.

[Archie Goodwin]

How did you know this uncle was the same guy who took us for a ride?

[Nero Wolfe]

First by speech Baron, he is undoubtedly a Canadian. But you must have missed the most important slipper.

[Dr. Thrummig]

What was that?

[Nero Wolfe]

When he escorted us to see the body, he said to you, Archie, if you and your brother and Mr. Wolf will step this way. Now, how would he believe that Dr. Thrummig was your brother? No one mentioned it, of course.

[Archie Goodwin]

The clue I planted and then missed myself.

[Nero Wolfe]

Quite right, Archie. Quite right. What time is it?

[Archie Goodwin]

8:00am I certainly appreciate your coming out for me on this deal.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, but I didn't do it just for you. There is an orchid lovers convention this morning at 9 o'.

[Archie Goodwin]

Clock. What? And you mean.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes, I'm sure you'll enjoy it tremendously. Both of you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, brother.

[Dr. Thrummig]

What? Say what?

[Archie Goodwin]

Say Nothing, Doc. Nothing at all.

[Narrator]

You have been listening to the new Adventures of Nero Wolf, starring Sydney Green Street. Tonight's transcribed story by John Edison was based on the characters created by Rex Stout. This is an Edwin Fadiman program produced and directed by J. Donald Wilson. In the cast were Harry Bartel as Archie Goodwin and Howard McNear, Gene Bates, Peter Leeds, Bill Johnstone, Grace Leonard and Jay Novello. Next week at this same time, Nero Wolf and Archie will bring you the case of the final page. Don Stanley speaking. Three chimes mean good times on NBC.