Nero Wolfe: The Final Page 03/23/1951

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives: Old Time Radio
Episode: Nero Wolfe – "The Final Page" (03/23/1951)
Date Aired: March 10, 2026
Starring: Sydney Greenstreet as Nero Wolfe

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Episode Overview

This episode of Choice Classic Radio features the iconic detective Nero Wolfe in "The Final Page," originally broadcast in 1951. The story kicks off when Wolfe and his assistant, Archie Goodwin, are invited to dinner by the celebrated novelist Arthur Merle. However, instead of an evening of fine dining, they walk into a murder scene. The subsequent investigation centers on a missing manuscript and a mysterious fourth dinner guest. "The Final Page" stands out as a classic locked-room whodunit, brimming with witty banter, tight plotting, and sharp character work emblematic of the golden age of radio detective dramas.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Progression

1. The Invitation and Discovery of the Murder

• [00:47–06:20]
  • Wolfe, complaining about leaving his home and discussing food with Archie, is convinced to attend a dinner invitation by Arthur Merle, a successful novelist.
  • Upon arrival at Merle’s apartment (aided by Cynthia Roberts, the elevator operator), they discover Arthur Merle stabbed, slumped over his typewriter with only page 189 in it.
  • Immediate suspicion is cast on anyone in the building, especially since the elevator operator seems to know everyone's movements.

2. The Initial Investigation

• [06:20–13:02]
  • Inspector Kramer arrives to lead the inquiry, interviewing Archie and Wolfe.
  • The Serve Rite Caterer, Henry Childs, attempts to deliver dinner for four, prompting the detectives to suspect an additional, unidentified guest.
  • Cynthia Roberts, revealed to be Merle’s fiancée as well as the elevator operator, is questioned but doesn't provide much information aside from her relationship with Arthur.
• Quote:
  • “He said he was to serve dinner for four. Well, Arthur, Merle, Archie and myself are only three.” – Nero Wolfe ([09:54])

3. Motives and Manuscripts

• [13:02–16:01]
  • The investigation rules out robbery as nothing of significant value is missing—except Arthur’s new novel manuscript. The only clue: a partial, mysterious page left in the typewriter.
  • Evidence shows the murder likely wasn’t premeditated, given the use of a blunt paper knife.

4. Following the Manuscript’s Trail—Publisher and Publicist

• [16:01–19:12]
  • Archie visits Carlton Morton, Merle’s publisher, and Henry Childs, Merle’s publicity agent.
  • Morton claims ignorance about the novel’s content or any existing copies.
  • Childs leaves, and Morton laments the financial loss of the missing best-seller.

5. Unraveling Lies and a Trap

• [19:12–23:10]
  • An article in the newspaper contradicts Morton’s earlier claim; now he says there is a carbon copy and synopsis.
  • Wolfe orchestrates a trap: Morton announces possession of the manuscript, hoping the murderer will reveal themselves to steal or destroy the incriminating document.
• Quote:
  • “I want you to call the literary editors first thing in the morning. Here’s what I want you to tell them...” – Nero Wolfe ([21:24])

6. The Confrontation and Confession

• [23:12–28:10]
  • At Wolfe’s office, Wolfe, Archie, and Kramer hide as Morton is confronted (at gunpoint) by Henry Childs, revealed to be the murderer.
  • Childs confesses: the novel exposes his blackmail operation, which he couldn't risk being public.
• Quote:
  • “Most of you people in the publishing business know me as a public relations and publicity agent... Actually, I’ve been as successful as I might in this business because a few years ago, I stumbled onto a very neat and foolproof method of blackmail. Unfortunately, Arthur Merle thought of the same thing and based this story on it.” – Henry Childs ([26:22])

7. The Denouement

• [28:10–29:13]
  • Childs, cornered, tries to take his own life rather than be arrested.
  • Wolfe and Archie wrap up, reflecting on the clever ruse they set with blank pages standing in for the manuscript.
  • Wolfe expresses regret that he’ll never learn exactly what the blackmail gimmick was in Merle’s story—a mystery within a mystery.
• Quote:
  • “In a way, though, I wish it hadn’t been just a scheme... I’d like to know exactly what that blackmail gimmick really was.” – Nero Wolfe ([28:41])

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Memorable Moments

• Archie’s flirting and Wolfe’s deadpan retorts add humor and texture to their relationship, exemplified by Archie’s interest in the elevator operator and Wolfe’s dry comments.
• Wolfe’s reluctance to leave home for dinner offers comic insight into his character and passions.
• The turning point is when the caterer reveals dinner for four, not three—transforming the dinner party into a critical lead ([09:54]).
• The theatrical trap for the killer, with blank manuscript pages, is classic detective strategy and provides an exciting climax.

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• The Murder Discovered: [06:09]
• Dinner for Four Revealed: [09:54]
• Cynthia Interrogated as Key Witness: [12:03–14:23]
• Publisher’s Contradictory Press Release: [22:31]
• Childs’ Confession and Motive Exposed: [26:22]
• Resolution and Wolfe’s Regret at the Unsolved Inner Mystery: [28:41]

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Tone and Dialogue

• The episode is marked by witty repartee, especially between Wolfe and Archie (“You don't solve crimes by imagination, Archie.” – Wolfe [14:41])
• Dramatic tension builds as suspects are introduced and ruled out, with a touch of classic detective cynicism and banter throughout.

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Conclusion

"Nero Wolfe: The Final Page" stands out as quintessential radio detective fare—sharp, suspenseful, and cleverly constructed. The interplay between a missing manuscript and the real-world consequences of its lost story ties thematically into the plot’s grand reveal. The episode captures the timeless appeal of Nero Wolfe’s methodical brilliance, Archie’s sardonic humor, and the satisfying unraveling of locked-room mysteries for which the series is beloved.

Transcript

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[Choice Classic Radio 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 donating at choiceclassicradio.com transcribe

[Narrator]

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

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf's office. Archie Goodwin speaking. What? Oh, Fritz. Yeah. I thought it was the outside line. Yeah. Yes, thanks. I'll be right down. Fritz. Boss. Mr. Wolf, will you please hurry?

[Nero Wolfe]

You're well aware that we'll avail you nothing to hurry me. Why, Mr. Werribee, in such a rush today.

[Archie Goodwin]

But the car. It's downstairs waiting. Fritz is all ready.

[Nero Wolfe]

Let him wait. Isn't it enough that I've agreed against my better judgment to leave the comforts of home to go rushing through the crashing traffic of the city to a dinner?

[Archie Goodwin]

That should be an inducement.

[Nero Wolfe]

Fritz could have prepared a delicious dinner. He has truffles in the pantry.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, why did you promise Arthur Merle? You didn't have to accept the invitation.

[Nero Wolfe]

Quite so. He's an old friend. Besides, he does set an excellent table. It's just that I don't like the traffic.

[Archie Goodwin]

Traffic? I know why. It's that awful oxygen in the atmosphere outside. It's not the traffic, Archie.

[Nero Wolfe]

You're talking much too much.

[Archie Goodwin]

I know, boss. I'm impatient. Would you mind giving me some slight indication that you intend to move from

[Nero Wolfe]

that chair just as soon as I finish this beer?

[Archie Goodwin]

Sure you wouldn't care for half a dozen sandwiches before we go to dinner?

[Nero Wolfe]

If we were going anywhere other than to Arthur Murrows, I'd agree with you. He's the only person in the world I know of, except myself, of course, who has a proper appreciation and respect for the art of preparing good food.

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, 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]

We usually refer to this story as the case. The final page. Under normal circumstances, the last page of a manuscript would be absolutely worthless unless you read all the preceding pages. But in this instance, the final page held the answer to a murder. Without that page, we couldn't arrive at the solution. Actually, we didn't even know the problem. Anyhow, I finally got Nero Wolf to the lobby of Arthur Merle's apartment building.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Going up? Up, please. Are you going up, gentlemen?

[Archie Goodwin]

Are you, honey?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Certainly. It's my job.

[Archie Goodwin]

Then so are we. After you, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

When did they install women, the elevator operators in this building?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

I've been here for two years. Floor, please.

[Archie Goodwin]

Arthur Merle's apartment. I believe it's 8:14.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

That's right. Are you Mr. Wolfe?

[Archie Goodwin]

Uh, no, this is Mr. Wolfe. I'm Archie Goodwin.

[Nero Wolfe]

Although the name Wolf would be much more appropriate for him than for me.

[Archie Goodwin]

How did you know he was Mr. Wolf?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Mr. Merle came in half an hour ago. He mentioned that he was expecting you.

[Nero Wolfe]

You see, Archie, you rush me unnecessarily. We practically preceded him here. And we'll probably have to wait interminably for dinner.

[Archie Goodwin]

I just hate to be late.

[Nero Wolfe]

Arthur Merrill has never been on time in his life. He's no more punctual than any other writer. He's never been known to meet a deadline on time.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

This is your floor, gentlemen. Arthur Merle is just down the hall to the right. 814.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thank you. And by the way, I want to compliment you on your congenial attitude. Miss, I'll speak to the management.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, thank you, sir. Decent of you.

[Archie Goodwin]

What's your name, huh?

[Nero Wolfe]

Women are usurping everything.

[Archie Goodwin]

Really cost to live here. Merle's really into chips.

[Nero Wolfe]

Every book he writes sells a million copies.

[Archie Goodwin]

Remember the last time we had dinner with Arthur Merle?

[Nero Wolfe]

I do. Delicious mountain quail. Shot them himself.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, he's quite a marksman.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, such proficiency as Arthur Merle displayed in hunting is evidence of a wasted life.

[Archie Goodwin]

Sure, he probably never made over $500,000 a year in his whole life.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, ring again. Don't just stand here.

[Archie Goodwin]

Surely he's expecting us.

[Nero Wolfe]

The elevator operator said he was.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, she seemed quite well informed.

[Nero Wolfe]

If I were a judge of women, which I'm not, I'd say she has a line on every male in the building.

[Archie Goodwin]

She can get a line on me anytime she wants.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, your insatiable interest in the female seems sometimes to border on the psychopathic,

[Archie Goodwin]

you know, a more pleasant way to go crazy. Phooey. It's strange. There's a light on in there. I can see it under the door. Shall I try the door?

[Nero Wolfe]

Do, Sir Roger, thank you. Enough. Well, at least we can get in.

[Archie Goodwin]

He may be in the bedroom, probably in the kitchen.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'll just sit here. I must forgo the comforts of my own home. I certainly intend to avail myself of the comforts of Arthur Merle. Hmm, very much over decorated.

[Archie Goodwin]

You wouldn't like heaven unless they had orchids and beer.

[Nero Wolfe]

Not a chair in the place worthy of the name. Well, I'll try that divan while you have a look around.

[Archie Goodwin]

For what?

[Nero Wolfe]

Ah, the Merle, of course. Suppose you have a look in the study, maybe writing. Have a look, my boy. I am exhausted and thirsty. See if he has any.

[Archie Goodwin]

Boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good heavens. Archie. Don't shout. I'm coming.

[Archie Goodwin]

It's Arthur Merle.

[Henry Childs]

Look.

[Archie Goodwin]

Slumped over his desk, a knife in his back.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yeah, he's quite dead. You haven't touched anything?

[Archie Goodwin]

Certainly not. I've been around long enough to know that.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, you just call Inspector Kramer at Homicide.

[Archie Goodwin]

How long do you think he's been dead? I'd say a half hour.

[Nero Wolfe]

Moral appearances. Yes, and perhaps only 10 minutes.

[Archie Goodwin]

I can't understand it. Why would anyone want to kill Arthur Merle? Everybody liked him. Nice man. I'd expect such a thing to happen to.

[Nero Wolfe]

The answer is probably a considerable distance from the Christian.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie.

[Inspector Kramer]

Inspector Kramer, homicide.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie Goodwin, Inspector. Just a minute. Nero Wolf wants to speak to you.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Oh no. Don't tell me you two have stirred up something on a night like this.

[Inspector Kramer]

It's 10 below zero.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm sorry. Here you are, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hello, Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yes, what is it this time, Wolf? Find a dead body under Grant's tomb.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm sorry. You'll forgive any apparent failure to find humor in your little witticism, but I'm at Arthur Merle's apartment. I suggest you come here at once. Seems that Arthur finally met a deadline.

[Inspector Kramer]

So you just walked in here and found Merle dead, huh?

[Nero Wolfe]

We were invited here for dinner.

[Inspector Kramer]

Anyone else around when you got here?

[Nero Wolfe]

No.

[Inspector Kramer]

You see anyone? Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Only the elevator operator who brought us up.

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, Mr. Wolf, since you were in on the ground floor, maybe you've got some ideas.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sorry, Inspector. Had I been able to solve the crime so soon, I would have advised you, Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yeah, well, it's obviously murder.

[Carlton Morton]

Obviously.

[Inspector Kramer]

You knew him well?

[Archie Goodwin]

Quite well.

[Inspector Kramer]

Ever know of his being in any trouble?

[Archie Goodwin]

No, everybody liked him. Arthur Merle, I felt, didn't have an enemy in the world.

[Inspector Kramer]

Is that so? I don't think anybody pulled this as a little friendly gesture.

[Nero Wolfe]

Don't jump to conclusions, inspector. That this murder was committed necessarily by an enemy of Merle's. Meaning it could have been an absolute stranger. A woman or a burglar or a madman or a crank. Or. As far as we know, it could have been anybody in the city, inspector. Others been dead nearly an hour and an hour ago, I was in my own home, sitting comfortably in my own big easy chair drinking a delectable glass of beer. Someone at the door, Archer?

[Inspector Kramer]

Yeah, just a minute. I'll answer that.

[Henry Childs]

Mr. Merle?

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

No.

[Henry Childs]

Well, is Mr. Merle here?

[Inspector Kramer]

Yes, he's here, but he's not seeing anyone.

[Henry Childs]

Well, is expecting me. I'm from the Serve Rite Catering Company. We're ready to serve for four here tonight.

[Inspector Kramer]

Their dinner has been canceled.

[Henry Childs]

Oh, but it's been ordered. Breast of guinea hen cooked in wine and cloves. Delicious. It's prepared and waiting. I'm afraid that I must insist on seeing Mr. Merle.

[Inspector Kramer]

Mr. Merle has been murdered.

[Henry Childs]

Well, I'm afraid I must. Murder? Oh, my goodness. But, well, in that case, I.

[Carlton Morton]

Yes?

[Henry Childs]

Good evening.

[Nero Wolfe]

Don't you think you might have taken a bit more time with the fellow, inspector? Why, you might at least have let him serve the dinner. Guinea hen, wine and clove sounded positively delectable.

[Inspector Kramer]

Look, I've had dinner.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm afraid you're too busy, inspector. So busy that you've just passed up an extremely interesting bit of information.

[Inspector Kramer]

What are you talking about, Wolf?

[Nero Wolfe]

He said he was to serve dinner for four. Well, Arthur, Merle, Archie and myself are only three.

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, who else was supposed to be here?

[Nero Wolfe]

A fourth guest who either hasn't arrived yet or who arrived earlier and left.

[Inspector Kramer]

Oh, I see what you mean, Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. In that case, I leave you to pursue your deductions from that premise. Archie, will you please stay with the inspector and be of any help that you can? As for myself, I'm going back to my own home, which I should never have left in the first place.

[Inspector Kramer]

Okay, that finishes the apartment search, Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

And what have we?

[Inspector Kramer]

Nothing, except that Merle had over $300 in his pocket and he was wearing a ring worth a couple of thousand. So it couldn't have been robbery. And I don't think it was premeditated murder.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why not?

[Inspector Kramer]

The weapon, obviously. If someone had planned on killing Merle, he'd have prepared it better. Used a better weapon than a blunt paper knife. Now, as I see it, someone was here before you and Wolf arrived. And for some reason, that person found it necessary to kill Merle. And he did it on the spur of the moment.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm listening.

[Inspector Kramer]

It's obvious. Merle was slumped over his typewriter. The sheet of paper was in it. He'd been working.

[Archie Goodwin]

May I see it? Yeah. Starbreaker. Strange title. Page 189. He was getting well along with his latest mystery. Apparently, Gregory Thorne slipped the paper into his pocket. It was just an ordinary piece of paper, but Gregory knew its value. Used properly, as Greg knew how to use it, it would be worth a hundred thousand dollars. He walked away briskly and as he.

[Inspector Kramer]

That's all? Yeah, that's all. Must have been right.

[Archie Goodwin]

No, I'd like to read the rest of it.

[Inspector Kramer]

We didn't find any more of it.

[Archie Goodwin]

Any other ideas?

[Narrator]

No.

[Inspector Kramer]

At the moment, we seem to be right where the murderer himself left off. Oh, what is this? Open house?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Sorry to be so. Oh.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

What?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

I was. I mean, I expected to see Mr. Murrow. Is he here?

[Inspector Kramer]

Who are you?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Cynthia Roberts.

[Inspector Kramer]

Expecting you.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Well, no, that is.

[Inspector Kramer]

Come on in, Ms. Roberts.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Thank you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Maybe the young lady is trying to say that he didn't have to expect her. Maybe she felt free to call without advance notice. Inspector.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Inspector. Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

What did you want to see Mr. Merlot?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

I. Well, I'm his fiance.

[Archie Goodwin]

Had dinner yet, Ms. Roberts?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Why, yes. I had dinner early.

[Inspector Kramer]

When were you last here, Miss Roberts?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Last night, after the theater. Arthur and I were. What's the matter? Is something wrong?

[Inspector Kramer]

I'm sorry to have to tell you this, Ms. Roberts, but Arthur Merle was murder. And you say you hadn't talked to Mr. Merle all evening. Is that right, Ms. Roberts?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Yes, that's right.

[Inspector Kramer]

You didn't have a date with him tonight?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, no.

[Inspector Kramer]

Then why did you come here?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

I told you we were engaged. I just came by, that's all.

[Inspector Kramer]

I see.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Any more questions, Inspector?

[Inspector Kramer]

None for the present. How about you, Goodwin?

[Narrator]

Nope.

[Archie Goodwin]

But maybe Wolf. Let me call him.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yes, I guess under the circumstances, we can't very well leave him out.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Go ahead.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, Arthur. I just can't believe it. Why would anyone want to kill him?

[Inspector Kramer]

That, Ms. Roberts, is a question we'd all like to know the answer to.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Near. Wolf speaking.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie. Boss, I'm still at Merle's. We haven't found out anything new except that Arthur's fiance dropped in a few minutes ago.

[Nero Wolfe]

Did she know anything of interest?

[Archie Goodwin]

I don't think so.

[Nero Wolfe]

What does the Inspector plan to do about it?

[Archie Goodwin]

Just a minute. You must know what you're going to do. With her?

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, hold her.

[Archie Goodwin]

Of course he's gonna hold her.

[Nero Wolfe]

Let me speak to him.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay. He wants to talk to you, Inspector. All right.

[Inspector Kramer]

Hello, Inspector.

[Nero Wolfe]

I suggest you let the young lady go.

[Inspector Kramer]

Are you crazy? I haven't got enough suspects in this deal to be letting the hottest one go free.

[Nero Wolfe]

You can't consider her a suspect simply

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

because she knew Arthur.

[Inspector Kramer]

Now, see here, Wolf, if you go

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

around arresting people at random, you'll certainly

[Nero Wolfe]

be dipping your hand to the real

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

murderer, admitting that you don't have a

[Nero Wolfe]

real clue to go on.

[Inspector Kramer]

And just what do you suggest?

[Nero Wolfe]

Find a motive, Inspector. Find a motive. Then if you stumble on a suspect, you'll have some basis for making an arrest. At the moment, I suggest that you

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

let the girl go and tell Archie to stop wasting his time down there

[Nero Wolfe]

and come home at once.

[Archie Goodwin]

So that's the story, boss. We went over that place with a fine tooth comb. Nothing. There's not a single suspect. The last person to see Arthur alive was the elevator girl, Christian.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, the last person to see Arthur Merle alive was the person who ended his life.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, I just can't imagine that pretty little elevator gal.

[Nero Wolfe]

You don't solve crimes by imagination, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Then there's Cynthia Roberts, his fiance.

[Nero Wolfe]

You suspect her?

[Archie Goodwin]

Not exactly. But just suppose she did have a motive. Maybe he threw her over. Wouldn't it have been very clever of her to come back to Arthur's apartment after the police arrived, allegedly looking for it?

[Nero Wolfe]

I thought you were the admirer of the fairest sex, Archie. So far the best you can do is practically accuse the elevator girl and Arthur's fiance of murder.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, who else is there? Certainly the fellow who came with the food doesn't count. I repeat, who else is there?

[Nero Wolfe]

The entire population of the city, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thanks. Well, that's all I get. Oh, well, there was something else.

[Nero Wolfe]

What?

[Archie Goodwin]

This. Page 189 of what appears to be Arthur's latest novel was in his typewriter, as you can see. Just started the page.

[Nero Wolfe]

Starbreaker. Very interesting. What's the rest of it?

[Archie Goodwin]

That's all we found. What?

[Nero Wolfe]

And there was something missing. Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, boss?

[Nero Wolfe]

First thing tomorrow morning, get the address of Mr. Morton who publishes Arthur's books. Then get over to see him right away.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Yes, may I help you?

[Archie Goodwin]

I'd like to see Mr. Morton.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Did you have an appointment?

[Archie Goodwin]

Tell him I'm from Hamas.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, yes, sir. Mr. Morton, I know you have someone with you, but there's a gentleman here from the Homicide Bureau. He wants to see you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Tell him I work for Nero Wolf, my Name's Goodwin.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

His name is Goodwin.

[Carlton Morton]

Send him in.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Yes. Thank you. You may go right in, sir. The large door to your right.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thanks.

[Carlton Morton]

Come in, Mr. Goodwin. Come in. I understand you're from Homicide.

[Archie Goodwin]

Not exactly. I'm Nero Wolf's assistant. We're working with Inspector Kramer.

[Carlton Morton]

And what can I do for you?

[Archie Goodwin]

You've heard about Arthur Murrow?

[Carlton Morton]

Yes, I received the word when I came in this morning. It was a great shock. Oh, excuse me. Mr. Goodwin, this gentleman is Henry Childs.

[Archie Goodwin]

How do you do, Mr. Childs?

[Henry Childs]

Glad to meet you, Mr. Goodwin. You're with Nero Wool?

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm his. Well, his Assistant, Man Friday.

[Carlton Morton]

Mr. Childs is a publicity agent. He handled all publicity for Arthur Merle.

[Henry Childs]

I've not only lost an excellent client, but a very good friend. Did you know Mr. Merle?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, I'd met him a number of times. With Mr. Wolf?

[Henry Childs]

Yes, indeed. Arthur Merle was a great writer and a fine citizen. He'll be missed by millions. Mr. Goodwin, when was the murder discovered?

[Archie Goodwin]

Last night, shortly before dinner.

[Carlton Morton]

Well, what are the police?

[Henry Childs]

I mean, what do you think the motive was?

[Archie Goodwin]

Don't know as yet, Mr. Charles. A little early for that.

[Henry Childs]

Well, it's certainly a shame.

[Archie Goodwin]

I wanted to ask you a few questions, Mr. Morton, privately. I hope you don't mind, Mr. Childs.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, no, no, not at all.

[Henry Childs]

I was about to leave. I'll run along now, Mr. Morton.

[Carlton Morton]

See you again soon, Mr. Childs.

[Archie Goodwin]

Good morning, gentlemen.

[Carlton Morton]

Well, Mr. Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

You did a lot of business with Mr. Merle, Mr. Morton.

[Carlton Morton]

I published every one of his novels for the past eight years.

[Archie Goodwin]

And you intended to publish his new one, the one he was working on? Yes.

[Carlton Morton]

We had a contract.

[Archie Goodwin]

The usual agreement between you? Naturally.

[Carlton Morton]

Although I didn't know the story, I was always sure that if Arthur wrote it, it was good. Mr. Merle's name on the novel was a guarantee that it would sell a million copies.

[Archie Goodwin]

You don't know what this last one was about?

[Carlton Morton]

Haven't the faintest idea. We relied completely on Arthur's judgment.

[Archie Goodwin]

Not even any carbon copies?

[Carlton Morton]

Not that I know of.

[Archie Goodwin]

5. When Mr. Merle was killed, the only thing missing from his apartment was the novel.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

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[Archie Goodwin]

The first 188 pages, all we found of it were a few lines of page 189 in his typewriter. He must have been working on it when the murderer stabbed him. The rest of it's gone.

[Carlton Morton]

You mean Goodwin? The novel's gone. This will cost me a million dollars.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, it cost Arthur Merle his life.

[Carlton Morton]

Arthur Merle dead and his novel gone. I can hardly believe it.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, thank you, Mr. Morton.

[Carlton Morton]

I hope I've been of help, although

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm sorry you haven't. But we may call on you again before it's over. You may be a great help.

[Nero Wolfe]

Near a word. Speaking.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Archie. Boss, I just finished with Morton. He doesn't know a thing. Merl never discussed his stories with anyone. And as far as Morton knows, he never made carpet.

[Nero Wolfe]

I see.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Where do I go from here, boss?

[Nero Wolfe]

See Cynthia Roberts.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Oh, then you haven't dismissed the possibility that she may have had something to do with it.

[Nero Wolfe]

Being his fiance, she probably knows more about Arthur than anyone else. She may know who the fourth guest was to have been last night. And she also may know what Merle's novel was about.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Right, boss. I'm anxious to know what the novel was about, too.

[Nero Wolfe]

I personally don't give a hang what the number was about. What I want to find there is someone who does know the story. Because I have a hunch that whoever knows that is the person who killed Arthur Merle.

[Archie Goodwin]

Miss Roberts, I know you want to help us find out who killed Arthur.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, yes, of course. I'll do anything.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf and I were invited to have dinner with Arthur Merle last night.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Well, I knew he was having friends in for dinner, but I didn't know who they were.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, I'm sorry. I hoped you'd know whom he invited.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

No, he didn't tell me.

[Archie Goodwin]

Ms. Roberts, we have reason to believe that there was to have been a fourth person there last night.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

A fourth?

[Archie Goodwin]

The caterer came to deliver dinner for four. Now, the fourth party never did show up. Or else came earlier and left after Arthur was killed.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

You mean someone Arthur invited to dinner might have killed him?

[Archie Goodwin]

Maybe.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, there's no one that I can think of who bore any ill will toward Arthur.

[Archie Goodwin]

We're convinced that this was done on the spur of the moment. Unpremeditated murder. Arthur Merle suddenly became a threat to someone. Now we've got to find out what the Threat was? And who was threatened? We'd hoped you could help.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

I'm sorry.

[Archie Goodwin]

Did he ever discuss his new novel with you?

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

Oh, no. He never talked about his stories until he'd finished them.

[Archie Goodwin]

So his latest mystery contains the answer to an even greater mystery. Unless we find the first, they'll both go unanswered.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hello? Mr. Morton?

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Yes.

[Nero Wolfe]

Nero Wolf speaking.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Oh, yes. Your man Goodwin was here to see me.

[Nero Wolfe]

I presume you are interested in seeing Merle's murderer brought to justice.

[Carlton Morton]

Certainly. Arthur was a close friend of mine.

[Nero Wolfe]

And his death cost you a best seller, I know. Now, would you be willing to help a bit? Why, yes, if I. I prepared a statement for the papers. I want you to call the literary editors first thing in the morning. Here's what I want you to tell them. Go to pencil and paper and take this down. Quote, Mr. Carlton Morton announced today the last work of the late Arthur Merle will be published according to schedule. Fortunately, it was Mr. Merle's custom to furnish his publishers with carbon copies of each day's work. Consequently, with the major portion of his.

[Archie Goodwin]

Boss, Boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good heaven, Archie, please don't be so loud.

[Archie Goodwin]

Look here in this morning's paper. Why, that rat. He lied to me. That. That.

[Nero Wolfe]

What on earth are you talking about?

[Archie Goodwin]

That publisher, Morton, he said he didn't have copies of Merle's manuscript, that he didn't know what it was about. And Listen to this. Mr. Carlton Morton announced today that the last work of the late Arthur Merle will be published according to schedule. Fortunately, it was Mr. Merle's custom to furnish his publisher with carbon copies of each day's work. Consequently, with a major portion of his latest work, Starbreaker, in the hands of his publisher, together with a complete synopsis, including the denouement, it will be possible for a ghostwriter to complete the novel. It will be published posthumously in proceeds. Boss, did you hear that?

[Nero Wolfe]

I did. And it couldn't have been more to my liking if I'd written it myself. Now, excuse me. I want to make a telephone call.

[Archie Goodwin]

Who?

[Nero Wolfe]

Publisher Morton.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, I'm beginning to see he lied about the whole thing. I still don't see why he'd kill Merle, but on.

[Nero Wolfe]

Hello, Mr. Morton? This is Nero Wolf. Yes, perfect. Now, I'll call Kramer and he and Archie will be waiting for you. Remember now, if anything comes of it, you are to say the manuscript is in the safe in your home and you steer the party here. Say, you've recently rented this place. I hope we'll be seeing you yes. Goodbye. Oh, and be careful. Remember what happened to Arthur. The manuscript is in my desk in the middle drawer.

[Elevator Operator / Cynthia Roberts]

What the.

[Nero Wolfe]

You mean Archie, look out of that window.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Huh?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah.

[Nero Wolfe]

Out there is a city of some 5 million people. In that 5 million, there is one who murdered Arthur Merle. Now, we don't know who it is, so we can't go out and put a finger on him. But, Archie, since we can't go to him, we have only one other choice. Make him come to us.

[Inspector Kramer]

Will you tell me why we're sitting

[Henry Childs]

here in the dark in Wolf's office?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, Inspector Kramer. Mr. Wolf promised us a caller. Mr. Morton is to pretend that he's rented this place recently.

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, who's the caller?

[Nero Wolfe]

Continue until he or she gets here.

[Inspector Kramer]

You seem certain he'll come.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm quite certain.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm just hopeful.

[Inspector Kramer]

You trying to tell me that Morton killed Merle?

[Nero Wolfe]

You're almost as dense as Archie was. No, Morton didn't do it.

[Archie Goodwin]

Unless Mr. Wolf is very wrong, which is doubtful, before the night is over, Morton will know who did. Then it won't be long until we know, too.

[Inspector Kramer]

You should get on a quiz program. You're so good at guessing games.

[Archie Goodwin]

Shh. Listen.

[Inspector Kramer]

Someone's coming.

[Nero Wolfe]

A brilliant deduction, my dear.

[Carlton Morton]

Creamer.

[Nero Wolfe]

I hope there are two of them. Inspector. Behind these drapes.

[Archie Goodwin]

Quick.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'll get behind the screen.

[Henry Childs]

All right, Mr. Morton. So far you've been very cooperative.

[Archie Goodwin]

Just keep it up.

[Carlton Morton]

I have no intention of doing otherwise. Your gun has me completely convinced, Mr. Child.

[Henry Childs]

Get the manuscript.

[Carlton Morton]

Yes. Just a moment. It's in my desk.

[Henry Childs]

Wait a minute. I thought you said it was in the safe.

[Carlton Morton]

Mistake, Mr. Charles. I don't have a safe. Shall I get the manuscript?

[Henry Childs]

Yes, but no tricks. You be careful.

[Carlton Morton]

I'm being exceedingly careful, Mr. Childs.

[Inspector Kramer]

There you are.

[Henry Childs]

Star Breaker by Arthur Merle. Yes, this is it. Thank you, Mr. Morton.

[Carlton Morton]

Now, I trust that's all you want of me.

[Henry Childs]

I'm sorry. I wish that were true. Unfortunately, you see, it's not the actual novel that I want. My interest in this copy is the same as it was in the original.

[Inspector Kramer]

And that is that no one should

[Henry Childs]

ever learn the content.

[Carlton Morton]

I take it you know what it's about, then?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes.

[Henry Childs]

You see, Mr. Merle made the mistake of telling me when I called a bit early at his apartment for dinner last evening. I was forced to deprive him of his life. Once I learned the storyline of this novel. This story must be kept secret.

[Nero Wolfe]

Why?

[Henry Childs]

Most of you people in the publishing business know me as A public relations and publicity agent for several prominent writers. Yes, Actually, I've been as successful as I might in this business because a few years ago, I stumbled onto a very neat and foolproof method of blackmail. Unfortunately, Arthur Merle thought of the same thing and based this story on it. If it got out, I'd be exposed and sent to prison. So he can see why I had to stop it. Why I had to kill Arthur. And why now I'll have to kill you, too.

[Carlton Morton]

Child, for heaven's sake.

[Henry Childs]

The contents of these pages condemn me. You know what's in them. Further, I've confessed to murder to you. You don't think I could let you

[Inspector Kramer]

live after that, do you?

[Carlton Morton]

Charles, you're insane.

[Henry Childs]

I'm sorry that I must repay you for your trouble in such an ungrateful manner. I'm sorry to do this to you.

[Nero Wolfe]

Charles, please.

[Narrator]

Enough.

[Archie Goodwin]

Sorry, Mr. Charles. There wasn't time to ask you to drop the gun.

[Inspector Kramer]

All right, Mr. Charles. Get your hands up and stay where you are.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nice going, Mr. Morton.

[Nero Wolfe (on phone) / Archie Goodwin (on phone)]

Who are you?

[Nero Wolfe]

That took courage, Mr. Morton. Sorry we had to wait so long, but we had to make Mr. Charles here convict himself.

[Henry Childs]

Convict? What do you mean?

[Inspector Kramer]

We've been waiting here for you behind the drapes all the time. We heard every word. Mr. Childs, you're under arrest. Police.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes, Mr. Giles. Only one person could have been so anxious over a copy of that novel. That's the person who killed Arthur Merle for the original. And we heard you confess to that.

[Inspector Kramer]

And that's all we need to convict you.

[Archie Goodwin]

We didn't have any proof until we set it up for you to make a second try to cover up for the first time. Fortunately, the setup worked. Setup?

[Nero Wolfe]

Take a look at the rest of the manuscript, Mr. Giles.

[Archie Goodwin]

What? All the front pages are all right, but look at the rest. Blank.

[Henry Childs]

They're just blank pages. You didn't have a copy at all?

[Nero Wolfe]

No, but we certainly got a murderer, eh, Inspector Childs? Stop, Giles.

[Narrator]

Stop.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, that's one way to avoid standing trial.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, Archie, I'm glad you and Kramer got trials. Some brp.

[Archie Goodwin]

That was a clever scheme, boss, making him think there was a copy. Yes.

[Nero Wolfe]

In a way, though, I wish it hadn't been just a scheme.

[Archie Goodwin]

Meaning?

[Nero Wolfe]

I wish there had been a copy of Arthur Merle's novel.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why? You never read detective stories.

[Nero Wolfe]

No, but I've dreamt up so much curiosity over this one. I'd like to know exactly what that blackmail gimmick really was. Good night, Archie.

[Narrator]

You have been listening to the new adventures of Nero Wolf, starring Sidney Greenstreet. Tonight's transcribed story by Don Arthur was based on the characters created by Rex Stout. This is an Edwin Fadiman production and is directly directed by J. Donald Wilson. In the cast were Harry Bartell as Archie Goodwin and Evelyn Eaton, Peter Leeds, Lucille Alex, Monica Neely, Herb Butterfield and Bill Johnstone. Next week at this same time, Nero Wolf and Archie will bring you the case of the telltale ribbon. Don Stanley speaking. Three chimes mean good times on NBC. There's excitement for you Sunday when talented servicemen compete on the Phil Regan Show. And Sunday on NBC also means another delightful adventure with Cary Grant and Betsy Drake when they star as Mr. And Mrs. Blanding, the proud but bewildered owners of the famous dream house. The chimes are your invitation every Sunday to Mr. And Mrs. Blanding. Tomorrow, for excitement, hear Herbert Marshall in the Man Called X on NBC.