Nero Wolfe: Room 304 04/27/1951

Summary

Podcast Summary: Nero Wolfe – "Room 304" (04/27/1951)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Nero Wolfe: Room 304
Aired: April 7, 2026 (original: April 27, 1951)
Host: Choice Classic Radio
Main Cast: Nero Wolfe (Sydney Greenstreet), Archie Goodwin (Harry Bartel), Inspector Kramer, Jay Bream, Jean Bennett, Mr. Renfrew, Mr. Morio

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Episode Overview

In this episode of "Nero Wolfe," the legendary armchair detective and his assistant Archie Goodwin become entangled in the mystery of "Room 304." It begins with a mysterious call from a distressed woman named Helen Rene, who is abruptly shot during the conversation. Wolfe and Archie are drawn into a tangled web of international intrigue involving technical equipment purchases, a murdered woman with a European connection, forged checks, and more than one potential suspect. As always, Wolfe's deductive prowess and Archie's street smarts pull the threads together in the classic golden-age radio detective style.

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Key Discussion Points & Storyline Breakdown

1. The Mysterious Call & Sudden Murder

• 00:21–01:17
  Helen Rene, a woman with a foreign accent, calls Nero Wolfe's office in distress. Suddenly, Archie hears a gunshot over the phone.
  • Quote:
    Archie (01:14): "Hello? Boss, that was a shot."
    Nero Wolfe: "Trouble, women, always trouble."
• Archie rushes to Room 304 at the Paul Hotel, where he finds Helen Rene shot dead with a gun in her hand. Jay Bream, her dinner date and a pilot, is present at the scene.
  • Quote:
    Jay Bream (03:39): "Yeah, dead. Real dead. What do you know about this?"

2. Wolfe’s Early Deductions

• 05:54–06:14
  Archie observes a detail: a dead woman couldn't have hung up the phone. Wolfe asserts it couldn’t be a suicide—Helen was murdered.
  • Quote:
    Archie (06:03): "How can a dead woman hang up a phone?"
    Wolfe: "You finally arrived at that, Archie. Amazing. Of course, she couldn't. She was murdered."
• Wolfe discovers a $1000 check in Helen's purse made out to him—a clue that links the case to their agency.

3. The Investigative Threads

• 09:14–10:22
  Inspector Kramer initially suspects suicide, but Wolfe convinces him of murder based on the impossibility of the phone being hung up by the victim posthumously.

  • Quote:
    Wolfe (10:17): "Precisely. How can a dead girl hang up a phone?"

• Archie follows financial leads, learning from Helen’s agent Mr. Renfrew that Helen was buying technical laboratory equipment for her government in Europe. Archie’s visit to the Arrow Lab Supply Company and its owner, Morio, raises suspicion.

  • Quote:
    Archie (14:08): "I came here to find out something about Helen Rene. Just what sort of equipment did you sell her?"

4. The Web Tightens: Warehouse Snooping & More Suspects

• 18:41–21:40
  Wolfe sends Archie to stake out Morio’s warehouse, where he's ambushed and knocked out by two men—highlighting the risk in this dangerous investigation.
  • Memorable moment: Archie’s comic complaints after getting slugged.
• Archie reports finding nothing but old junk at the warehouse—evidence the lab equipment business is possibly a front for fraud.

5. Showdown and Solution: The Drawing Room Reveal

• 22:02–26:15
  Wolfe gathers all suspects (Renfrew, Morio, Jay Bream, Jean Bennett) in his office. He pieces together the puzzle from bank records, hand dominance, and phone records.
  • Key deduction: Helen was left-handed but was shot in the right temple, indicating the scene was staged by a right-handed murderer.
  • Quote:
    Wolfe (24:40): "She was shot through the right temple, Mr. Renfrew, while talking on the telephone with a gun in her left hand. Wouldn't it be awkward for her to twist her arm around her face and shoot herself?"
• The pressure cracks Renfrew, who confesses: confronted by Helen about a $50,000 embezzlement, he killed her and staged the suicide.
  • Quote:
    Renfrew (25:27): "I was forced to eliminate her. She accidentally learned about the shortage and she became most unreasonable about it."
• Renfrew attempts to escape at gunpoint but is apprehended by Inspector Kramer, who reveals he heard Renfrew's confession.

6. Classic Wolfe Epilogue

• 27:00–27:33
  Wolfe requests a grocery run from Archie via Jean Bennett, showing his typical nonchalance and wit even after a deadly case.
  • Quote:
    Wolfe (27:01): "I figured that by the skill you expressed on reviving a patient from a deep faint. Archie, on the way home, I want you to stop by the delicatessen..."

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:21–01:17 – Mysterious call leads to murder
• 05:54–06:14 – Wolfe deduces it’s a murder, not suicide
• 09:14–10:22 – Inspector Kramer and Archie discuss Wolfe’s reasoning
• 12:04–14:21 – Archie investigates the Arrow lab company
• 18:41–21:40 – Archie’s warehouse ambush
• 22:02–24:40 – Wolfe gathers suspects, laying out deductions
• 24:40–25:27 – The left-handed clue and Renfrew’s reasoning exposed
• 25:27–26:15 – Renfrew’s confession and arrest
• 27:00–27:33 – Lighthearted wrap-up and Wolfe’s grocery list

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Wit and Tone:

• Wolfe’s banter about lunch and orchids, and Archie’s flippant humor, bring levity to the investigation.
  • Wolfe (12:15): "Not this once nor any other time. Archie, you know I have lunch precisely at noon."

Memorable Exchanges:

• Inspector Kramer: "Wolf, tell me, why is it you're always mixed up in these cases?"
• Wolfe: "That, Inspector, would be as difficult to answer as it would be to convince Archie of the danger of the female of the species." (10:30)

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Key Insights

• Wolfe’s methodical logic shines, particularly in noticing the phone hook detail and the left-handed shooting clue.
• The case blends detective work with international intrigue, embezzlement, and a scam laboratory equipment operation.
• Classic character dynamic between irascible Wolfe and wisecracking Archie creates humor and forward drive.
• The episode exemplifies Golden Age radio drama with tight plotting, colorful suspects, and a satisfying drawing-room reveal.

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For New Listeners:
This episode encapsulates the charm and intellect of Nero Wolfe stories: a seemingly convoluted murder, subtle clues, high-stakes secrets, and a humor-laden unraveling by the world’s crankiest—and cleverest—detective.

Transcript

[Announcer]

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.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Hello, is this Mr. Wolf?

[Nero Wolfe]

If it's for me, I'm not here.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Hello?

[Archie Goodwin]

What if it's a case?

[Nero Wolfe]

If it is, tell him.

[Archie Goodwin]

No, I will not.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Hello? Hello?

[Nero Wolfe]

Compan you, Archie, do as I say.

[Archie Goodwin]

Uh, hello?

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Hello, is this Mr. Wolf's residence?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, is this Mr. Wolf? Uh, yes, yes, Mr. Wolf speaking.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Oh, I am in very much trouble. Could I see you, please? Immediately.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, now, yes, what kind of trouble, miss?

[Nero Wolfe]

Give me that phone, Auntie.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Oh, hello.

[Archie Goodwin]

Sorry, I had to turn the radio down too loud, you know.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Oh, may I see you right away?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, I.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Can I retain a fee?

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes, yes, yes, indeed.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'll take the case. Come right over. The address is 601 West 35th Street.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

I cannot, Mr. Wolf, I just cannot come there.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, where do you live?

[Helen Rene (caller)]

I am staying at the pol Hotel, room 304 and.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello? Boss, that was a shot.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Hello?

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello?

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, it's that renowned genius who is the bulkiest, bulkiest, 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]

We have usually referred to this story as the case from 304. The girl on the phone had a decided foreign accent. I wasn't quite able to decide what nationality she was, but it sounded like French. Anyway, there was what sounded like a shot, then dead silence for a second or two. Hello? Hello? Hello?

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, Archie, another woman. Bah.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Wolf, I heard a shot and then the line clicked off.

[Nero Wolfe]

Trouble, women, always trouble.

[Archie Goodwin]

I said I heard a shot on the phone.

[Nero Wolfe]

Indeed.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm going over to her hotel and see what goes on.

[Nero Wolfe]

By all means, Mr. Wolf.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah.

[Jean Bennett]

Huh.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now that I've been insulted to the tone of being called a radio.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm sorry, Mr. Wolf, but we needed the money and this was $1,000.

[Nero Wolfe]

If you'll excuse me, I have to attend to my orchids.

[Narrator]

Mr. Wolf, what about the girl?

[Archie Goodwin]

The shot?

[Nero Wolfe]

Fascinating, isn't it? You figure it out.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, I've got to get over there. Room 304, Paul Hotel. So long, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good luck. Mr. Wolf, please phone me from time to time.

[Archie Goodwin]

301, 302 304. What do you know? The door's open. Oh, hello.

[Nero Wolfe]

Who are you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie Goodwin. Now it's your turn.

[Jay Bream]

I'm Jay Bream, pilot for Jan Airlines.

[Archie Goodwin]

You seen? Yeah, I guess you have. This girl's been shot.

[Jay Bream]

Oh, that's all?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, dead, Real dead. What do you know about this?

[Jay Bream]

I don't know anything.

[Narrator]

Say, who are you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Looks like you're in a spot, pal. You better start digging, hadn't you?

[Jay Bream]

I got here a few seconds before you did. I knocked on the door. The door was partially open, so I pushed it wide.

[Archie Goodwin]

Go on.

[Jay Bream]

Well, there was no answer. I couldn't see anyone, so I came in and there she was.

[Archie Goodwin]

You know her?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Jay Bream]

Why do you think I came here?

[Archie Goodwin]

That's what I'm trying to find out.

[Jay Bream]

Look, what right have you got asking

[Archie Goodwin]

me all these questions? What's it to you? Did you ever hear of Nero Wolf?

[Jay Bream]

Of course, who hasn't?

[Archie Goodwin]

Like I said before, I'm Archie Goodwin, Wolf's assistant. Would you rather talk or should I call the police?

[Jay Bream]

I've told you all I know.

[Archie Goodwin]

Who is she?

[Jay Bream]

Helen Rennie.

[Archie Goodwin]

French?

[Jay Bream]

I don't know. European.

[Archie Goodwin]

Anyway, why'd you come here tonight?

[Jay Bream]

I have a dinner date with her.

[Archie Goodwin]

You mean you did have.

[Jay Bream]

Yeah.

[Archie Goodwin]

Let's turn her over. There. Hmm. Had an automatic in her hand.

[Jay Bream]

Yeah, I never saw it before.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hey.

[Jay Bream]

Hey, I. I wouldn't use the phone. Fingerprints.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, I'll use this handkerchief.

[Jay Bream]

Who you calling?

[Archie Goodwin]

My boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Nere. Wolf speaking.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, I thought you were near a Wolf. You sound very much like him.

[Archie Goodwin]

Please, boss, be serious.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, but I am.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm here at the girl's apartment. The one who called me. She's dead.

[Nero Wolfe]

Beautiful.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, was very beautiful.

[Nero Wolfe]

She would be. How did happen?

[Archie Goodwin]

Shot. Neat round hole in her right temple. She's married and looks like she shot herself. When I turned her over, I saw a wedding ring on her finger and a.32 automatic still in her hand.

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you alone?

[Archie Goodwin]

No, A fellow named J. Bream, a pilot. He was here when I arrived.

[Nero Wolfe]

No one heard the shot?

[Archie Goodwin]

Apparently not. No one showed up yet.

[Nero Wolfe]

Very interesting. What do you do now, Mr. Wolf?

[Archie Goodwin]

Should I call Inspector Kramer?

[Nero Wolfe]

No, say nothing to anyone. Get over here at once. And bring Mr. Breen, the pilot, with you. Goodbye. That's all you know about it, Mr. Breen?

[Jay Bream]

That's right, Mr. Wolf. Just like I told Mr. Goodwin here.

[Archie Goodwin]

The whole thing sounds. Hey, I just thought of something. Pray tell, Archie, it can't be suicide.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, and why not?

[Archie Goodwin]

How can a dead woman hang up a phone?

[Nero Wolfe]

You finally arrived at that, Archie. Amazing. Of course she couldn't. She was murdered.

[Archie Goodwin]

Murdered?

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes, Mr. Bream.

[Jay Bream]

But I thought she committed suicide.

[Nero Wolfe]

Please, Mr. Bream, it'll be better if you don't think. Where are you staying?

[Jay Bream]

321 West 19th, apartment 5.

[Nero Wolfe]

And your job?

[Jay Bream]

I have 10 days vacation, started yesterday.

[Nero Wolfe]

One thing, Mr. Bream. I suggest you don't leave town. Furthermore, talk is not advisable. I strongly recommend that you adopt precautions.

[Jay Bream]

Yes, sir.

[Nero Wolfe]

Show Mr. Bream to the door, Archer.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir. Right this way.

[Jay Bream]

Good night, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good night.

[Archie Goodwin]

I didn't want to tell you in front of Mr. Breen, but I found this in her purse when I sent him for a sheet to cover the body.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thousand dollar check made out to Mr. Nero Wolf. Well, boss, I think it's time we phoned Inspector Kramer.

[Archie Goodwin]

Should I?

[Inspector Kramer]

Who else?

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, who else?

[Archie Goodwin]

My apologies. I forgot how heavy that phone really is.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie. Oh,

[Archie Goodwin]

do you want me to talk to the Inspector?

[Nero Wolfe]

I'll do the talking.

[Archie Goodwin]

Should I hold the phone for you?

[Nero Wolfe]

You can get me some beer.

[Archie Goodwin]

Inspector Kramer, One moment.

[Nero Wolfe]

Here you are near a Wolf, Inspector. I think you had better go over to the Paul Hotel.

[Inspector Kramer]

Why?

[Nero Wolfe]

I believe you'll find a dead woman there.

[Inspector Kramer]

A dead woman? What is this, a gag, Wolf?

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm afraid not, Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

How did you know about it? Have you been over there?

[Nero Wolfe]

Telepathy, Inspector Manleton.

[Inspector Kramer]

Wolf, I'm too busy today to listen to nonsense.

[Nero Wolfe]

Telepathy.

[Inspector Kramer]

Don't give me that kind of stuff. If I find a body, I'll lock you and Goodwin up.

[Nero Wolfe]

You watch your blood pressure, Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

Never mind about my blood pressure.

[Nero Wolfe]

One thing, Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yeah?

[Nero Wolfe]

Would you hold off the press for the present?

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Why?

[Inspector Kramer]

What are you holding back?

[Nero Wolfe]

Wolf, will you stop your idiotic jabbing? Do what I ask. Okay.

[Inspector Kramer]

By the way, Wolf, I suppose you know the girl's room number.

[Nero Wolfe]

Naturally, Inspector. It is room 304. So hurry, Dear Inspector. Creamy soof under me. Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir.

[Nero Wolfe]

I suggest you call the bank in the morning and find the person who's handing Ms. Renee's account. Try to bring all her cancelled checks over here.

[Archie Goodwin]

And what if they won't hand them over?

[Nero Wolfe]

Then Kramer will get an order issued to do so.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Simple.

[Narrator]

Coming.

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, where's Wolf?

[Archie Goodwin]

Where do you think he'd be? In his big chair.

[Nero Wolfe]

Evening, Inspector. I expected you before this, Inspector. What kept you so long?

[Inspector Kramer]

If I told you I had a flat tire, would you believe me? Now start giving.

[Nero Wolfe]

Wolf.

[Inspector Kramer]

What did you know about the dead girl.

[Nero Wolfe]

Inspector Kramer, do sit down. Relax. Nervous tension is such it deadly thing.

[Inspector Kramer]

Now listen here, Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Would you like some beer? Most soothing, you know.

[Inspector Kramer]

Come on, what's the dope on this case?

[Nero Wolfe]

Fill the inspector in on the details, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

I was here talking to the girl over the phone. It was a shot. And then I went over to her hotel and found her the same as you did, dead on the floor. And the phone was placed back on the hook.

[Inspector Kramer]

Come on, Wolf, there's more to this than that. Let's have it. Really, who was she?

[Nero Wolfe]

You don't know?

[Inspector Kramer]

I mean, what do you know about her? Now get this straight, Wolf, I. Please, Wolf, what's this all about? A girl's been shot. Her name is Helen Ranny.

[Mr. Renfrew]

What's the dope?

[Nero Wolfe]

Did you have a ballistics report made on the gun?

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, not in this short time, but I will.

[Nero Wolfe]

How did you make out your report?

[Inspector Kramer]

Suicide, naturally.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thought she was talking to the girl on the phone at the time she was shot.

[Inspector Kramer]

So she chooses to kill herself talking to your assistant.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why, you big flat footed.

[Nero Wolfe]

Inspector. Precisely. How can a dead girl hang up a phone?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why, she.

[Nero Wolfe]

You see, Inspector, quite impossible. And now I suggest you make out your report. Murder.

[Inspector Kramer]

Murder. Wolf, tell me, why is it you're always mixed up in these cases?

[Nero Wolfe]

That Inspector would be as difficult to answer as it would be to convince Archie of the danger of the female of the species.

[Inspector Kramer]

Oh, what's the use? No one ever answers my questions. I give up.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, Inspector, I do hope you will bring the girls. Cancel checks tomorrow. If they don't turn them over to us.

[Archie Goodwin]

What?

[Nero Wolfe]

The inspector is just going. Archie, please see him to the door. I'm not helpless. Good night, Inspector. Good night.

[Archie Goodwin]

Please, boss, can't we have just a little air in here?

[Nero Wolfe]

You've been out all the morning. Isn't that enough?

[Archie Goodwin]

Gonna get me an oxygen tank to use in here.

[Nero Wolfe]

Did you contact the bank regarding the girl's account?

[Archie Goodwin]

I did. I finally talked to the head of the accounting department. He told me about our personal agent here, Mr. Renfrew. He was handling all her financial affairs. Went to see Renfrew?

[Nero Wolfe]

What did he have to say?

[Archie Goodwin]

Very little. But he seemed very upset when he learned of her death. I didn't tell him how she died. He said Helen Renee was here buying technical equipment for her government in Europe.

[Nero Wolfe]

Technical equipment? What kind?

[Archie Goodwin]

Laboratory stuff.

[Nero Wolfe]

Did she make any definite purchases from

[Archie Goodwin]

the Arrow Company here in town? A Mr. Paul Morio is the head man of this Arrow Company. Mr. Renfrew her agent gave us quite a bit of an argument about coming over here today. Said it was very irregular to show bank statements. But he finally gave in. I didn't need the inspector's help.

[Nero Wolfe]

What time do we have the honor?

[Archie Goodwin]

He said he'd be here at noon.

[Nero Wolfe]

No, you know I'll be busy that time.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, I didn't think you'd let.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, you never do.

[Archie Goodwin]

Your lunch will keep. Just this once, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Not this once nor any other time. Archie, you know I have lunch precisely at noon. Not after, not before, understand?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah.

[Nero Wolfe]

I surmise you have the address of the Arrow Lab supply company.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir. You want me to go have a talk with Mr. Morio who runs the place?

[Nero Wolfe]

Sometimes. Archie, your conclusions are fantastic.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm leaving.

[Nero Wolfe]

One thing more. And after you return from your visit with Mr. Mario, would you be so kind as to entertain Mr. Renfrew until after my lunch? And don't stand there with the door open.

[Archie Goodwin]

Sorry, boss. I'll go out through the coal chute. Do forgive me. There are supply company. Oh, Mr. Mario in? Yeah, I'm Mario. My name's Archie. Archie Goodwin.

[Mr. Renfrew]

What can I do for you? Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf's assistant. You've heard of Nero Wolf?

[Mr. Renfrew]

I don't get around much. Tell me about him.

[Archie Goodwin]

How should I answer that?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Any way you like.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf's a detective. Did you ever hear of a Miss Rene?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Stop shadow boxing, Mr. Goodman. What's on your mind?

[Archie Goodwin]

I understand you sold Miss Rennie some laboratory equipment.

[Nero Wolfe]

Is it a jail term?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Now, listen, Mr. Goodwin, I have a nice respectable business here. So what do you want? Spill it.

[Archie Goodwin]

When'd you last see Ms. Rene?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Two days ago.

[Archie Goodwin]

Talked to her since once on the phone. What time was that?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yesterday morning.

[Archie Goodwin]

You called her from your office here?

[Mr. Renfrew]

No, from my hotel room. Now, look, let's quit playing cat and mouse. Why all the questions?

[Archie Goodwin]

Ms. Rene is dead.

[Nero Wolfe]

Dead?

[Archie Goodwin]

Who did it?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Now, wait a minute. You don't think I had anything to do with it?

[Archie Goodwin]

What makes you think anyone did it?

[Mr. Renfrew]

It'd be the only reason cops would get into it.

[Archie Goodwin]

You know, Mario, I'm beginning to wonder just how long you've been in the lab supply business. You know what a retort is? Don't tell me it's a snappy comeback.

[Mr. Renfrew]

What's the matter, Goodwin? What's eating you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Look, Mario, I came here to find out something about Helen Rene. Just what sort of equipment did you sell her?

[Mr. Renfrew]

It was heavy stuff. Heavy chemical works.

[Archie Goodwin]

Where is it?

[Mr. Renfrew]

We don't have samples, just pictures. Yeah, we ship it Direct.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, so the purchaser never sees what he's buying?

[Mr. Renfrew]

That's right.

[Archie Goodwin]

Could I see what she purchased?

[Mr. Renfrew]

I'm afraid not, Goodwin. Besides, what difference would it make?

[Archie Goodwin]

Did Ms. Renee see what she bought?

[Mr. Renfrew]

No, I already explained that. Now I'm busy, Goodwin, so if you don't mind.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, I'll run along. Good afternoon, Mr. Mario. I'm sure we'll meet again soon,

[Nero Wolfe]

Dear. Wolf speaking.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes, Archie just left the Arrow lab

[Archie Goodwin]

supply company and as far as I'm concerned, something's rotten in Denmark.

[Nero Wolfe]

Indeed?

[Archie Goodwin]

This guy Morio who runs the company doesn't sound like a legitimate lab supply man. I think he's running some kind of a racket.

[Nero Wolfe]

What makes you believe that, Archie?

[Archie Goodwin]

Just not the type to be in legit business. Things just don't jive. And she didn't see what she bought.

[Nero Wolfe]

You believe then that he would have reason to want Ms. Renee out of the way?

[Inspector Kramer]

Yeah.

[Archie Goodwin]

Guy made me see red. I wanted to take a poke at him.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, you're an idiotic hothead.

[Archie Goodwin]

He said it was all heavy lab stuff she bought and was too late for me to see it.

[Nero Wolfe]

Get in now. Get over here as soon as you can. Immediately, immediately. Have you forgotten you have an appointment with Mr. Renfro at noon? Goodbye.

[Archie Goodwin]

Coming, coming.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Hello, Mr. Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Renfrew. Well, well, who's this? My goodness. Come in.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yes, come in, my dear.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you, Mr. Goodwin.

[Mr. Renfrew]

I brought my secretary along. I hope you don't mind.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mind? Why, Mr. Renfrew, how could anyone object?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Mr. Goodman, Ms. Bennett.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello, Ms. Bennett. First name Jean.

[Jean Bennett]

Do you always use this approach, Mr. Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Only at noontime and my name's Archie. Well, this is a happy surprise. Please sit down, Jean. Allow me.

[Jean Bennett]

Thank you. Well, wasn't it Mr. Renfrew you wanted to see?

[Archie Goodwin]

Uh, yes. Mr. Wolfe will be down shortly, Mr. Renfrew. Please be seated. Thank you.

[Jean Bennett]

Is something wrong, Mr. Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Not a thing, Ms. Bennett. Not from where I sit.

[Nero Wolfe]

I don't believe a word he says, miss. His judgment concerning women is not to be trusted.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thank you, Mr. Wolfe. You're so kind. Mr. Wolfe, Ms. Bennett.

[Nero Wolfe]

How do you do, Mr. Woolf. Mr. Renfro, I presume.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yes.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now we can get down to business at hand, Mr. Renfrew.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yes, yes, by all means. I don't understand why we couldn't have discussed this on the phone, Mr. Wolf. The whole thing is highly irregular. Of course, I know you're trying to

[Nero Wolfe]

do your duty, but I prefer not to discuss the dead girl's business affairs on the phone. Mr. Renfrew, you should appreciate that.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yes, yes, I see. Now, what is it you wish to know?

[Nero Wolfe]

How long have you known Helen Rene? About a month. When's the last time you talked to her?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yesterday.

[Nero Wolfe]

What time?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Why, about 2:30. I called her from my room. She was here on government business.

[Nero Wolfe]

You brought the cancer checks?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Here you are, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Quite sizable amounts, Mr. Renfrew. Very interesting indeed.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Yes, you see, Ms. Renee made some very large purchases, Mr. Wolfe, and of course they were all quite legitimate.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hmm. Would you mind if I kept these checks overnight? Well, thank you, Mr. Renfrew. By the way, was Ms. Rennie right or left handed?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Why left handed, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Why, just inquisitive. Now if you would excuse me, Ms. Bennett. Mr. Renfrew, I have a very urgent appointment.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Well, if I could be of any more service, don't hesitate to call on me, Mr. Wolfe.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you, sir.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Oh dear, poor Ms. Renee. I hope the person who did this dreadful thing is dealt with properly. Indeed, I must run along now.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, this way. Must you go too, Miss Banner?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Good day, Mr. Wolf.

[Jean Bennett]

I must. And good day.

[Archie Goodwin]

See you soon, Miss Banner. Well, boss, what do you think? Isn't she a beauty?

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm sure I'm not a fair judge. Archie, do you happen to know where the Mario warehouse is?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why yes, it's at the other end of town, near the river. Oh no, not again.

[Nero Wolfe]

9:00 o'clock tonight, okay?

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay. I suppose you want me to take a gander at what's in the warehouse. Break in like a burglar.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, if your mind were free of women, I do believe you could reach phenomenal heights in this your chosen profession.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nothing around here but a bunch of old tubes and glassware. I hope Wolf knows what he's doing. I don't. All right, stand where you are in reach. What's it? Flip the lights on, Joe.

[Inspector Kramer]

That's better. Now sing up and tell me what you're doing here.

[Archie Goodwin]

I beg your pardon? I'm a little deaf. I couldn't hear you.

[Inspector Kramer]

I said, what are you doing here?

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, Ellen. I was supposed to meet her here.

[Inspector Kramer]

Makes sense, will ya?

[Archie Goodwin]

You think I can?

[Nero Wolfe]

What's the matter, Mac? Visitors.

[Inspector Kramer]

This bird refuses to talk.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well then knock it out, you two.

[Archie Goodwin]

Talk it over. Don't bother telling me how it comes out.

[Inspector Kramer]

Hey, wait a minute, you.

[Archie Goodwin]

You ain't leaving. All right, you win. This night is just full of surprises, ain't it?

[Mr. Renfrew]

Let's see what you're talking.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hey, who do you think you're shoving around?

[Inspector Kramer]

Just full of questions, ain't you.

[Archie Goodwin]

You know, someday you're end up by getting into trouble. It's illegal to push people around.

[Inspector Kramer]

I guess you better understand.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hey, you kidding?

[Archie Goodwin]

Get the point? Now get up.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Now talk.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why?

[Inspector Kramer]

You still want to play, huh?

[Mr. Renfrew]

He's out like a light, Mac.

[Nero Wolfe]

What are you gonna do with him?

[Inspector Kramer]

He won't do any more snooping around here, you know.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sup, Mac?

[Mr. Renfrew]

You got an awful disposition.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm actually scared of you. You're that mean?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah.

[Inspector Kramer]

Now dump him outside.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hey, boss. It's me, Archie. Remember?

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie? These interruptions are detestable. Can't you see I'm busy? Is that you, Archie?

[Archie Goodwin]

I've been busy too, boss. Look at my face. I had an accident.

[Nero Wolfe]

From your appearance, I say that someone else had been busier. All right, Mr. Goodman. As long as you insist upon interrupting my meditation. Start at the beginning, Mr. Wolf.

[Archie Goodwin]

I arrived at the warehouse. I went inside. I saw a lot of packing cases and a bunch of old glassware, worn out junk. Two men jumped me. I came to lying in the alley. I staggered to a cab and made it home. End of story.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, your repertoire of words is most astonishing. And your description of Mario's warehouse is without doubt most enlightening.

[Archie Goodwin]

I thought you'd like it.

[Nero Wolfe]

And now, Archie, I suggest you get Fritz to give you a piece of beefsteak for that eye of yours. And after that, I've arranged a gathering for five o' clock tomorrow afternoon.

[Archie Goodwin]

Then I shall repair to my bed to suffer in silence.

[Nero Wolfe]

You should be more careful on these nefarious expeditions. You might get hurt sometimes.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, I've been a careless fellow, Mr. Wolf. Good night.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good night, A.J. present dreams.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Mr. Wolf. I'm glad you called me early. I was just about to leave town

[Archie Goodwin]

for a couple of days.

[Mr. Renfrew]

What is this conference about?

[Nero Wolfe]

Not at this time, sir, if you please.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm glad you could come along, Ms. Bennet.

[Jean Bennett]

I'll be happy to assist in any way I can, Mr. Goodwin.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Right. Well, good evening, Mr. Morio. I knew we'd meet again.

[Mr. Renfrew]

It's no fault of mine, Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Please come in. Come in, Mr. Morio. You don't want to keep the rest of the guests waiting.

[Mr. Renfrew]

What do you want with me?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why, what?

[Nero Wolfe]

Nothing.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Wolf versus Mr. Morio.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sit down, sir.

[Archie Goodwin]

Take the red leather chair for special guests. Mr. Morio. Yeah.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now, gentlemen, you're probably wondering why I asked you here. Naturally, you know it has to do with the death of Helen Rene. Mr. Morio, I understand you and Ms. Rene had some business transactions that involved quite a sum that you purchased laboratory equipment.

[Mr. Renfrew]

That's right.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie told me that your warehouse contained nothing but second hand junk. It was a shame, Mr. Mario, that this shipment was delayed by a shipping shortage. Otherwise you might have gotten away with it.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Is this why you called me over here?

[Nero Wolfe]

It is immaterial to the case at hand. Actually, I'm only interested in heading Rene's murder.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Hey, wait a minute. You don't think I did it?

[Nero Wolfe]

Didn't you?

[Mr. Renfrew]

No, Mr. Wolf. I admit everything you said about the equipment, But I've had no part in any murder.

[Nero Wolfe]

I see. Mr. Bre, you are the pilot of Warfly. If you had shot the girl and wanted it to look like suicide, in which hand would you put the gun?

[Jay Bream]

Why, her right hand indeed.

[Nero Wolfe]

Where did you first meet Ms. Renee?

[Jay Bream]

Boarding the plane at Orleyfield.

[Archie Goodwin]

Europe.

[Nero Wolfe]

Mm. Mr. Renfrew.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Now look here, wolf, this has gone too far. I won't be put through any third degree. If you'll excuse me, I. I have

[Nero Wolfe]

to get to the desk.

[Archie Goodwin]

Sit down, Renfrew.

[Nero Wolfe]

Mr. Renfrew. I'm astonished that anyone would be as amateurish as they were in this case.

[Mr. Renfrew]

I don't understand.

[Nero Wolfe]

Could it be that you killed Ms. Renee and attempted to make it look like suicide? Because she was about to tell me the true forgeries? Her bank account was $50,000 short.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Well, what reason would I have to kill her?

[Nero Wolfe]

You told me yourself you phoned Ms. Renee from your hotel the day she died, yet there was no outgoing cause charged to your account.

[Mr. Renfrew]

All this is nonsense. Ridiculous.

[Nero Wolfe]

She suddenly became suspicious of you. And you are probably the only person here who knew that she was left handed.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Well, what does that have to do with it?

[Nero Wolfe]

She was shot through the right temple, Mr. Renfrew, while talking on the telephone with a gun in her left hand. Wouldn't it be awkward for her to twist her arm around her face and shoot herself? In your excitement you forgot you had shot her in the right temple.

[Mr. Renfrew]

And what else do you know, Mr. Wolfe?

[Nero Wolfe]

That you once worked in Europe, where you met miss Rene, arranged to represent her in this country. Only you would know how much he had in the account here.

[Mr. Renfrew]

I've heard enough of this nonsense.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yesterday you made a statement, Quote, I hope whoever did this dreadful thing is dealt with properly. Only the police, the natie And I knew Ms. Rennie had not died naturally. How did you know that? Unless you are the murderer. Don't make a move, any of you.

[Mr. Renfrew]

I was forced to eliminate her. She accidentally learned about the shortage and she became most unreasonable about it. Phoned you about it.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, dear me. So utterly weary of these melodramatics. Put up that gun.

[Mr. Renfrew]

I spent 15 years sweating trying to get enough money to live the way that I want.

[Nero Wolfe]

And now I have it.

[Mr. Renfrew]

And neither you nor anybody is going to take it away from me. I'll kill anyone who tries to follow me out of this house.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, no, Mr. Wolf. Stand back, Mr. Renfrew.

[Helen Rene (caller)]

Don't, please.

[Nero Wolfe]

I will take that gun from you and.

[Mr. Renfrew]

What the.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, Inspector, you certainly arrived at the proper time. Even if you are late. What do you mean, late?

[Inspector Kramer]

I've been standing out there listening to Renfrew for five minutes.

[Archie Goodwin]

Boy, that's too close. Glad he missed you, Inspector.

[Mr. Renfrew]

Well, good night, Mr. Wolf.

[Inspector Kramer]

And not so fast, Mr. Morio.

[Nero Wolfe]

I suggest you hold Mr. Morio here for swindling Ms. Rennie and her government. And Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir?

[Nero Wolfe]

Do you know how to care for a person who has fainted?

[Archie Goodwin]

I certainly do.

[Nero Wolfe]

Then look behind you. Your pretty Ms. Bennett has collapsed.

[Jean Bennett]

I'll get it. Hello?

[Nero Wolfe]

Is this Ms. Jean Bent?

[Jean Bennett]

Yes.

[Nero Wolfe]

Is Archie Goodman there?

[Jean Bennett]

Why, yes. Just a minute. It's for you, Archie.

[Nero Wolfe]

For me?

[Archie Goodwin]

No one knows I'm here. Hello.

[Nero Wolfe]

I thought I'd find you there. Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

How'd you know I was here?

[Nero Wolfe]

I figured that by the skill you expressed on reviving a patient from a deep faint. Archie, on the way home, I want you to stop by the delicatessen and pick up the following things. Ham, beer, cheese, olives.

[Archie Goodwin]

My boss.

[Jean Bennett]

How'd he know you were here?

[Archie Goodwin]

Pure deduction. That's why he's called the world's greatest detective.

[Jean Bennett]

Really?

[Archie Goodwin]

Come here,

[Jean Bennett]

Archie, you shouldn't do bananas. Archie?

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, you listening to me? Oh, well, guess you didn't hear a word of it. Good night, Archie.

[Narrator]

You have been listening to the New Adventures of Nero Wolf, starring Sydney Greenstreet. Tonight's transcribed story by Virgil Reimer was based on the characters created by Rex Stout. This is an Edwin Fadiman production, produced and directed by J. Donald Wilson. In the cast were Harry Bartel as Archie Goodwin and Lucille Alex, Val Brown, Bill Johnstone, Hal Gerard, Betty Lou Gerson, Vic Rodman and Ed Daly. This is Don Stanley speaking. Three chimes mean good times on NBC. Just listen to the stars on this Sunday's big show. Jimmy Durante, Ethel Merman, Milton berle and Gordon McRae, plus Meredith Wilson and his orchestra. Your MC on the big show, of course, is the glamorous Tallulah, and you're invited. And on Theater Guild on the air this Sunday, you'll hear the comedy the man in Possession, starring Rex Harrison and Lily Palmer. Don't forget here, Ethel Merman on the big show Sunday on NBC.