Nero Wolfe: The Hasty Will 03/02/1951

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Nero Wolfe – The Hasty Will

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Date: February 10, 2026 (original broadcast 03/02/1951)
Host: Choice Classic Radio
Lead characters: Nero Wolfe (Sydney Greenstreet), Archie Goodwin (Harry Bartell)

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Episode Overview

In this engaging and twisting detective tale, Nero Wolfe and his assistant Archie Goodwin are drawn into the mystery of John Blake—a prominent businessman who arrives at Wolfe’s office with a hastily prepared will, a confidential letter, and a request for discretion. When Blake suddenly disappears and evidence suggests suicide or foul play, Wolfe is tasked with solving a case involving estranged family, embezzlement, a forged identity, and a hidden fortune. The episode features classic banter, clever deductions, and a false trail that keeps listeners guessing until the final reveal.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Progression

The Mysterious Will and Letter (00:50 – 06:19)

• John Blake visits Wolfe, saying he’s not seeking legal services but needs a disinterested party for a delicate matter.
• Blake presents a new will, leaving everything to his daughter Anita, and a sealed letter for his estranged brother Hillary.
• Wolfe and Archie find the situation suspicious, but with their finances low, Archie remarks:

  “At a thousand dollars, considering our bank balance, I’ll help him poison his great grandmother.” (01:44, Archie Goodwin)

Disappearance and Initial Investigation (06:42 – 13:01)

• Blake vanishes the day after the visit; his daughter Anita is distressed.
• Archie’s legwork uncovers family tensions: Hillary (twin brother) recently returned from Australia; he and John had been at odds for 25 years over the same woman, Marcia.
• Contradictory theories are floated: suicide, kidnapping, or murder.
• Archie delivers the grim conclusion:

  “I think he’s dead.” (09:41, Archie Goodwin)

• Evidence surfaces: John’s hat/coat, a copy of the will at the docks—suggesting suicide.

Family Confrontations and Doubts (13:04 – 20:00)

• Letters indicate deep-rooted guilt (“jealousy and bitterness... have kept us apart”) and suggest John’s emotional distress.

  “I had to pretend because I lied to Marcia... I’ve decided to close my book and write Finis.” (13:04, reading of John's letter)

• Identification of the body is inconclusive, with Archie and police unable to be sure, despite Anita’s certainty.
• Wilbur Martin, Anita’s fiancé, aggressively theorizes that Hillary murdered John to steal money, drawing attention to the bitter family rivalry.

Wolfe’s Deduction and Forensic Inquiry (20:00 – 24:00)

• Handwriting analysis brings ambiguity: specimens from John and Hillary share traits. Wilbur provides old Hillary letters, but experts note the 1948 “Hillary” letters are suspiciously similar to John’s hand.
• Wolfe grows wary of everyone’s motives, instructs Archie to investigate John’s company, the Plymouth Building and Loan.

The Real Reason – Embezzlement and the Hidden Bonds (22:20 – 26:38)

• News breaks that John Blake embezzled company funds.
• Wilbur accuses “Hillary” (actually John under a new identity) of murder and theft, convinced the hidden money is in play.
• The centerpiece: Wolfe reveals the painting of Marcia holds “thousands of dollars in negotiable bonds” pasted to its back.

  “There’s the reason for the whole thing.” (25:02, Nero Wolfe)

• Wolfe’s final deduction: John forged 1948 letters as Hillary (who had died ten years prior), killed off his own identity, and posed as his twin to escape justice.

The Climactic Reveal and Resolution (24:02 – 28:09)

• Inspector Kramer supports Wolfe’s conclusion:

  “You’re under arrest, Mr. Blake. Not for murder, because there’s been no murder. You’re under arrest on a charge of embezzlement.” (25:57, Sergeant Hanlon)

• Anita is also arrested as an accomplice.
• Archie reflects on the impressive, if ultimately flawed, scheme:

  “What a fantastic plan.” (26:43, Archie Goodwin)

Epilogue—Wolfe’s Reflections (27:04 – End)

• Wolfe critiques Blake’s “cleverness,” noting he failed to destroy old handwriting samples.
• Archie wryly observes Wilbur wasn’t as dull as he thought.
• Banter resumes; Archie pretends to threaten resignation for comedic effect, but Wolfe has the last word:

  “You were talking about resigning. Are you still in that frame of mind?” (27:49, Nero Wolfe)

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Notable Quotes

• Archie Goodwin:
  “I’ll help him poison his great grandmother.” (01:44)
• Nero Wolfe (exasperated with Archie’s focus on money):
  “Nothing but business all the time.” (01:41)
• John Blake’s Letter:
  “I had to pretend because I lied to Marcia... I’ve decided to close my book and write Finis.” (13:04)
• Nero Wolfe (on the painting):
  “There’s the reason for the whole thing.” (25:02)
• Sergeant Hanlon:
  “You’re under arrest, Mr. Blake. Not for murder… on a charge of embezzlement.” (25:57)
• Archie Goodwin (summing up):
  “What a fantastic plan.” (26:43)

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Key Timestamps

• 00:50 – John Blake brings the will to Wolfe.
• 06:42 – Blake disappears; Archie starts deeper investigation.
• 09:42 – Archie states his belief John Blake is dead.
• 13:04 – John’s emotional letter to Hillary is revealed.
• 17:11 – Identification attempt at the morgue.
• 20:00 – Wilbur provides old letters for handwriting checks.
• 22:30 – News of embezzlement surfaces.
• 25:02 – Wolfe reveals the bonds hidden in the portrait.
• 25:57 – Blake is arrested for embezzlement, not murder.
• 27:04 – Wolfe and Archie recap; loose ends tied.

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Tone and Style

The episode blends suspenseful, hard-boiled detective storytelling with witty, dry banter—particularly between the methodical Wolfe and wisecracking Archie. The supporting characters (Wilbur, Anita, John/Hillary) provide melodrama and red herrings, while evidence and deduction steadily build to the intricate, surprising solution.

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Conclusion

Nero Wolfe: The Hasty Will delivers classic radio detective drama at its finest: a tangle of shifting identities, family secrets, and financial intrigue, all unraveled by Wolfe’s unflappable logic and Archie’s energetic legwork. The interplay of mistaken identities and overlooked clues keeps listeners engaged until the very last reveal.

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Transcript

[Narrator/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.

[Archie Goodwin]

You for [e-mail] Free chimes mean good times on NBC.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You're invited every Saturday over most of these NBC stations to a one hour concert by the renowned NBC Symphony. Tomorrow's symphony performance features Metropolitan Opera star Helen Traubel as guest soloist. For tomorrow's broadcast, the orchestra will be under the baton of the widely acclaimed conductor Wilfred Pelletier for the world's great music, hear the NBC Symphony brought to you tomorrow and every Saturday Transcribed. Ladies and gentlemen, the ringing of that phone bell brings you mystery adventure.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf's office. Archie Goodwin speaking. Yes, who's calling? Mr. John Blake. Well, is this a matter of business? That's fine, Mr. Blake. I'll just call him.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, I'm not here. Tell him I'm up in the plant room with the orchids.

[Archie Goodwin]

I was going to call him to the phone, but he's up in the plant room with his orchids. What sort of a case is this, sir? Really?

[John Blake]

Really.

[Wilbur Martin]

Is that so?

[Nero Wolfe]

Is it a man or a woman?

[Wilbur Martin]

Oh, I understand perfectly.

[Archie Goodwin]

It's a man.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, at least that's something different.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir, very urgent. I understand. And I assure you Mr. Wolf will be here waiting for you. The fee? Oh, shall we say about. Oh, a thousand?

[Nero Wolfe]

I will not see any kind until after dinner. Fritz is having mountain quail on toast.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, Mr. Blake. Come at once. What were you saying, boss?

[Nero Wolfe]

And found you, Archie? Nothing but business all the time. What's the problem?

[Archie Goodwin]

I don't know. And at a thousand dollars, considering our bank balance, I'll help him poison his great grandmother.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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 chair. Born mass of unpredictable intellectual 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]

What we chose to refer to as the case of the hasty will began of course, with an urgent phone call from the mysterious John Blake. At the moment, Nero Wolf was seated in his chair, which was specially built for his £300, and I was giving him a lecture on the importance of money.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, that will do. I'm not interested.

[Archie Goodwin]

You will be when you learn you can make no more purchases of beer and skittles. You've passed up two cinch cases. Now, each would have Meant a healthy fee. Let us hope this Mr. Blake has a nice fat problem that will take us days to solve.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir?

[Nero Wolfe]

Answer the door.

[John Blake]

Good evening, I'm John Blake.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, yes, yes, come in, Mr. Blake. You have no idea how welcome you are.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, show Mr. Blake in and close the door. That draft is unbearable.

[Archie Goodwin]

This way, sir. Mr. Wolf doesn't care for anything resembling air. Oh, I'm Archie Goodwin.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good evening, Mr. Blake.

[John Blake]

Mr. Wolf, I have a little business for you. Now, before you say anything, I know you're not a lawyer.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm not a member of the bar. Let us say, Mr. Blake.

[Inspector Kramer]

Of course.

[Archie Goodwin]

What kind of business, Mr. Blake?

[John Blake]

I have here a short will which I have typewritten myself.

[Inspector Kramer]

I. I haven't signed it yet.

[John Blake]

Also, I have here a sealed envelope containing a letter which I want you to be prepared to deliver to the addressee.

[Nero Wolfe]

A will and a letter. Very well, yes.

[John Blake]

Do you know who I am?

[Nero Wolfe]

Seems that I've certainly seen you before.

[Archie Goodwin]

Same here. I just can't place you.

[John Blake]

Well, I'm John Blake, president of the Plymouth Building in loan.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, of course. I've seen your picture many times.

[Nero Wolfe]

You have a star for the best attorneys in the city, Mr. Blake. And this is most assuredly the business of attorney.

[John Blake]

Perhaps, but in this particular instance I wanted an individual who had no interest in me nor a previous knowledge of my affairs.

[Nero Wolfe]

I see.

[John Blake]

Also I wanted the person who was, well, shall we say, not too well fixed.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, you certainly could be, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Imagine Mr. Wolf being in need of money.

[Nero Wolfe]

Just the way kind your attorneys handle this.

[John Blake]

You'll know in a moment. But when I leave here I want.

[Inspector Kramer]

You to forget the whole thing for the time being.

[Nero Wolfe]

Indeed, you have said it.

[John Blake]

Here's the will. You may read it, Reggie.

[Archie Goodwin]

January 25, 1951. To my daughter, Anita Blake, I do hereby bequeath all my property, personal and real, including the portrait painting of her mother, my dear deceased wife, Marcia Blake. This will supersedes any and all instruments previously drawn.

[Nero Wolfe]

So. Simple enough, isn't it?

[Wilbur Martin]

That's all.

[John Blake]

Now the pen, please, and I'll sign.

[Anita Blake]

It.

[John Blake]

Now then you sign as witness, Mr. Goodwin. You retain the will, Mr. Wolfe, and the envelope here, which is addressed to Hilary Brake, my brother who is now living in this city.

[Nero Wolfe]

Your brother?

[John Blake]

He's just recently returned from 25 years in Australia. Though Hillary has written me several times, I have not favored him.

[Inspector Kramer]

We've.

[John Blake]

We've been estranged these many years over, well, a certain unpleasant situation which this enclosed letter will clear up.

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you in fear of your life, Mr. Blake. Murder?

[John Blake]

No, Mr. Wolfe. There was a time, yes, but, well, not now. You will know what to do with the will and the letter, though, when the time arrives. Now, as to your fee, you said a thousand.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, we usually receive a thousand.

[Nero Wolfe]

Will do.

[John Blake]

Well, here's a check, all made out.

[Archie Goodwin]

If you're thinking of suicide, Mr. Blake, we must warn you.

[John Blake]

If you don't care to go through with this, please say so. I'm not planning on suicide, I assure you.

[Nero Wolfe]

We have taken the job, Mr. Blake.

[John Blake]

And good evening, gentlemen, and thank you for your kind indulgence.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, that's the simplest little thousand we.

[Nero Wolfe]

Ever made, I believe, Mr. Goodwin, you're going to be quite surprised. I want you to get acquainted with John Blake's secretary. You are more than earned this thousand, young man. Archie? Archie, is that you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

What time is it?

[Archie Goodwin]

It is 6pm the clock is right in front of your eyes.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm thinking, Archie, it's very interesting. Very. An entire day has passed since the visit from John Blake. Did you learn anything from Blake's secretary?

[Archie Goodwin]

I did. He left his office late yesterday. She said his daughter Anita is quite upset because he didn't come home.

[Nero Wolfe]

Check his club?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yup. I didn't talk to the daughter, but I learned that she's engaged to a young fellow named Wilbur Martin. She told the secretary that her father had been acting strangely of late, a bit morose.

[Nero Wolfe]

And what does the daughter feel has happened?

[Archie Goodwin]

Anita's afraid he's been kidnapped.

[Nero Wolfe]

You haven't met nor talked to any other than the secretary?

[Archie Goodwin]

Not yet. So far no one's called the police.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. We must, for the time being, prevent that. What did you learn of Blake's brother from Australia?

[Archie Goodwin]

He's been here only a year. They've met only once or twice since his return. The secretary thinks the breakup was because of their love for the same woman. Hillary became very wealthy in Australia.

[Nero Wolfe]

Very well, Archie, it is time for you to visit Ms. Anita Blake at her home.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'd love to, boss. She's a mighty purty gal.

[Nero Wolfe]

Fooey, Archie, you can do me a great service.

[Archie Goodwin]

Anything.

[Nero Wolfe]

Be sure to close it tightly as you leave.

[Wilbur Martin]

Close what?

[Nero Wolfe]

The coal chute, of course.

[Anita Blake]

I'm awfully glad you could come, Uncle Hillary. Wilbur seemed to think you might know something about Father's disappearance.

[Inspector Kramer]

No, I don't know, Wilbur.

[John Blake]

I'm just as nonplussed as you are.

[Wilbur Martin]

When did you see your brother last?

[John Blake]

Oh, it's been four or five months. Why?

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, I just wanted to know what.

[Inspector Kramer]

Do you two think has become of him?

[John Blake]

Surely you know his recent actions better than I.

[Anita Blake]

Well, at first I thought he'd been kidnapped. Now I'm afraid it's suicide.

[John Blake]

Oh, I say, really now, have you been putting such ideas into our head.

[Wilbur Martin]

Young man on the other hand, could have been murder.

[John Blake]

Indeed. Well, I suggest that the police be called, the hospitals, the morgue, every place. Have you thought of doing that, young man?

[Wilbur Martin]

I was going to.

[Nero Wolfe]

Really?

[John Blake]

Then what are you stalling about? I'll just step into the library and do it myself.

[Anita Blake]

It can't be Wilbur. It just can't be.

[John Blake]

Ms. Blake, there's a Mr. Goodwin to see your father.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, I'll see him.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thank you. Ms. Blake, I'm Archie Goodwin.

[Anita Blake]

This is my fiance, Mr. Wilbur Martin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Martin, how do you do?

[Anita Blake]

What is it you want, Mr. Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Is your father here, Ms. Blake?

[Anita Blake]

Why no, no he isn't.

[Wilbur Martin]

What is your business, Mr. Goodman? Why do you want to see Mr. Blake?

[Archie Goodwin]

As a matter of fact, I don't really want to see Mr. Blake because I don't think he's here. I came to see Ms. Blake.

[Anita Blake]

Just who are you?

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm a detective.

[Wilbur Martin]

Police?

[Archie Goodwin]

Private investigator. With Nero Wolf. John Blake has disappeared. I know you're trying to keep it out of the press because you think he's been kidnapped.

[Wilbur Martin]

We have called the police.

[Anita Blake]

What do you think has happened to my father?

[Archie Goodwin]

I think he's dead.

[Anita Blake]

Oh dear. What? Why do you think that?

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, just what do you know, Mr. Goodwin?

[John Blake]

Oh, Anita, I want to ask you a few questions. I think it's advisable.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yes.

[Archie Goodwin]

I thought you were done for.

[John Blake]

That is, I don't think I either.

[Wilbur Martin]

This chap is a detective.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm Sorry about this, Mr. Blake, but curiosity got the better of me. I hope I haven't wrecked things.

[John Blake]

What are you talking about?

[Archie Goodwin]

You remember the agreement?

[Anita Blake]

What agreement, Mr. Goodwin? Do you know who you're talking to?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why is John Blake.

[Anita Blake]

No. Mr. Goodwin, this is my uncle Hilary, my father's brother Hillary.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hillary Blake?

[Anita Blake]

Yes, my father's twin brother.

[Archie Goodwin]

John and Hillary were twins. Of course, that's news to me. I didn't know that.

[Wilbur Martin]

What did you know about him?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, now that I look at him, now that I can recall his speech, there is a difference.

[Wilbur Martin]

And now, why do you think John Blake is dead?

[Archie Goodwin]

I've just come from police headquarters.

[Anita Blake]

You mean he's been murdered?

[Archie Goodwin]

No, from all indications he's committed suicide.

[Inspector Kramer]

Suicide?

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you sure?

[Anita Blake]

Poor father.

[Archie Goodwin]

I was afraid of this this morning. A hat and an overcoat were Found on the east river docks near Pier 9. In the coat was a typewritten copy of a will made yesterday. The hat bears the initials J.B. it was a will?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes.

[Archie Goodwin]

Could you identify the hat and coat, Miss Blake?

[Anita Blake]

Well, yes, of course.

[Archie Goodwin]

Very well. Come in, Sergeant. This is Sergeant Hanlon, Ms. Blake. Do you recognize this coat and hat?

[Anita Blake]

Yes. Oh, yes, I do. They were fathers, Wilbur.

[Inspector Kramer]

Suicide? I can't understand it, but the hat.

[Wilbur Martin]

And coat are not conclusive evidence. What about the will found in the pocket?

[Archie Goodwin]

Show them the will, Sergeant. Read it, Miss.

[Anita Blake]

You read it, Wilbur.

[Wilbur Martin]

To my daughter, Anita Blake, I do hereby bequeath all my property, personal and real, including the portrait painting of her mother, my dear deceased wife, Marcia Blake. This will supersedes any and all instruments previously drawn. But no signature.

[Archie Goodwin]

I have the original.

[Nero Wolfe]

Here you are.

[Wilbur Martin]

Where did you get this?

[Archie Goodwin]

Notice the signature of the witness, Archie Goodwin. You witnessed his signature in Nero wolf's office.

[Wilbur Martin]

But Mr. Blake had his own attorneys.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nevertheless, he came to Mr. Wolf to take care of the will. If we hadn't recognized him from his photos in the papers, I wouldn't have witnessed the signature.

[Wilbur Martin]

Anita, is this your father's handwriting?

[Anita Blake]

Yes. Yes, it is. All right.

[Wilbur Martin]

But there still isn't proof that he's dead, nor that he committed suicide. No corpus delicti.

[Archie Goodwin]

The body may not be found for days. But this evidence we have here certainly indicates that a body will be found eventually.

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe not, Mr. Goodman. It's possible they could have.

[Archie Goodwin]

What were you going to say? Nothing. Ms. Blake, in a way, I blame myself for your father's death.

[Anita Blake]

How do you mean?

[Archie Goodwin]

I had a sort of premonition. It's obvious now why he came to Nero Wolf.

[Wilbur Martin]

Is it?

[Archie Goodwin]

He wanted someone who didn't know him personally. His own attorneys would have been able to see through his plan and prevent his carrying it out.

[Anita Blake]

But he made a will. Why? Did he draw this new one?

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes.

[John Blake]

That's what I don't understand.

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, I still am not convinced that he committed suicide.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Blake, here is a letter he asked to be delivered to you.

[John Blake]

Oh, well, now.

[Archie Goodwin]

Perhaps it will shed some light on the problem.

[Anita Blake]

What does it say? Uncle.

[Inspector Kramer]

Jove says, Hilary, 25 years now, jealousy and bitterness have kept us apart. I know why you stayed in Australia all these years. I know you loved Marcia. She was rightfully yours. But I loved her too. And I couldn't go on without her. I know you've despised us both and I've pretended to despise you. I had to pretend because I lied to Marcia. I Told her you were engaged to marry a woman in Sydney. Marcia was innocent. I was to blame. When Marcia died last year and you wrote that you were coming back, I knew then that your resentment had faded. But I didn't answer you. And I've kept away from you because I couldn't face you. I've told you all this because things have happened which you will learn soon enough that have decided me to close my book and write Finis. I have made a new will, leaving everything I possess to Anita. Anita is young, Hilary. And I beg you to watch after her as though she were your own, which, but for my selfishness, she might well have been. Forgive me, Hilary. Well, this.

[John Blake]

This certainly indicates suicide.

[Anita Blake]

But what does he mean by things have happened?

[Archie Goodwin]

That, Ms. Blake, is the motive. For which we'll just have to wait.

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, for that.

[Archie Goodwin]

And the body. Well, boss, up here in the conservatory. A bit early, aren't you? How are the orchids?

[Nero Wolfe]

It's a nice sunny morning, even though it is around zero outside. The sun is fine for them. And behold.

[John Blake]

Archie.

[Inspector Kramer]

Huh?

[Archie Goodwin]

What is it?

[Nero Wolfe]

The Dendrobium score, Estelle?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, indeed.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

What about it?

[Nero Wolfe]

Showing two buds. Most encouraging.

[Archie Goodwin]

Indeed. Indeed. So, boss, I can't take the steam heat here.

[Nero Wolfe]

Tell me, this painting of Marcia Blake, is it large?

[Archie Goodwin]

Hangs over the Blake mantle, about 3 by 4ft.

[Nero Wolfe]

Find it most intriguing that John Blake should mention the painting in so short a will. And Hillary. Does he seem to offer any suggestion on this problem?

[Archie Goodwin]

He has very little to say. Wilbur has definite ideas and he's in there pitching all the time. There's a rather unpleasant way about him, though.

[Nero Wolfe]

You have talked with Inspector Kramer?

[Archie Goodwin]

I have.

[Nero Wolfe]

And asked Ms. Anita and Hillary to meet you at the morgue to look at the body.

[Archie Goodwin]

Right. And I left Wilbur out of this gathering.

[Nero Wolfe]

This body is practically unidentifiable, huh?

[Archie Goodwin]

In Kramer's opinion, it is.

[Nero Wolfe]

After you're finished down there, I'd like to have a chat with this Wilbur Martin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, but you'll get nothing out of him. I've tried.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, you're becoming so conceited. Soon I fear I'll have to fire you.

[Archie Goodwin]

If it were summer, I would forthwith resign.

[Nero Wolfe]

Run along and close our coal shoot behind you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Morning, Inspector Kramer. Up early?

[Inspector Kramer]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Goodwin, I'd just love to come down to this Morgue.

[Archie Goodwin]

This is Ms. Anita Blake and her uncle, Hillary Blake.

[Inspector Kramer]

How do you do?

[Wilbur Martin]

Good morning, Mr. Goodwin. I hope you don't object too much to my joining the proceedings.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, I know, Wilbur. I suppose it's all right.

[Anita Blake]

Please Mr. Goodman, what's happened?

[Archie Goodwin]

There's a body here, rather badly bruised and cut and in a bad condition, but I think you should look at it. Oh, I. I'm sorry, Ms. Blake, but I'm afraid it's necessary.

[Anita Blake]

Very well. I'll be all right.

[Wilbur Martin]

I'd like to come along.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, yes, Wilbur, you must.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Well, come on this way.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Here we are.

[Anita Blake]

Wilbur.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

What do you say, Ms. Blake?

[Wilbur Martin]

Now, get hold of yourself, Anita, please, you must.

[Anita Blake]

Yes, yes, that's father.

[Archie Goodwin]

And you, Mr. Blake.

[John Blake]

Certainly. Hard to say.

[Inspector Kramer]

It looks as though it might be John. Was there no means of identification on the body? No jewelry or.

[Anita Blake]

Father never wore any jewelry.

[Archie Goodwin]

There was nothing but this suit here. Nothing in the pockets.

[Anita Blake]

Yes, that's father's suit, all right. I know.

[Inspector Kramer]

Oh, why?

[Anita Blake]

Why did he do it?

[Archie Goodwin]

Come along now. That's all for today. Mr. Wolf, this is Mr. Wilbur Martin.

[Nero Wolfe]

Ah, yes. How do you do, Mr. Martin? Sit down.

[Wilbur Martin]

Thank you, sir.

[Archie Goodwin]

No, no, no. Take the red leather chair.

[Wilbur Martin]

That's right.

[Nero Wolfe]

So glad you could come, Archie. Berth. Tell me, Mr. Martin, you saw the body?

[Wilbur Martin]

I did. Whether it was John Blake or not, I'm not sure, but Anita feels positive enough.

[Nero Wolfe]

You are skeptical about the suicide theory?

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, yes, I am.

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you trying to cast suspicion on someone else?

[Archie Goodwin]

No. He thinks he was murdered.

[Wilbur Martin]

I do.

[Nero Wolfe]

But not by you, of course.

[Wilbur Martin]

Certainly not.

[Nero Wolfe]

But who would know that? John came here, signed the will and gave us the letter to his brother. He must have contemplated suicide, don't you think?

[Wilbur Martin]

Are you positive it was John Blake.

[Nero Wolfe]

Who signed the will? Hmm. How interesting. You think it was his brother Hillary who came here posing as John?

[Wilbur Martin]

It could have been, but the man.

[Archie Goodwin]

Was quite gray and had no Australian accent.

[Wilbur Martin]

Hillary could have dropped the accent for a short while and grayed his hair. And they were twins.

[Nero Wolfe]

So enlightening. Mr. Martin, do go on.

[Wilbur Martin]

After he left you here, he could have killed John and thrown him in the river and left his overcoat and hat on the wharf.

[Archie Goodwin]

And why would Hillary kill John?

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, I. Well, there may have been several reasons. Maybe because of Marcia. Well, several reasons.

[Nero Wolfe]

Tell me, did John Blake object to your engagement to Anita?

[Anita Blake]

No.

[Wilbur Martin]

Why should he?

[Nero Wolfe]

I don't know. Amelia asked. Anita Blake identified her father's handwriting. She identified the body. You still believe it's murder?

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe she only thought it was his handwriting.

[Nero Wolfe]

You had best be careful, Wilbur. In trying to make a murder out of this, you might place yourself in a most unhappy position.

[Archie Goodwin]

I checked the letter and the will with papers at John's office, and the handwriting is Identical, in my opinion.

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe Hillary is clever at forgery.

[Archie Goodwin]

Maybe.

[Wilbur Martin]

Did you have the experts check the writing?

[Archie Goodwin]

Not yet.

[Wilbur Martin]

Then how can you tell? Unless you had a bonafide sample of Hillary's writing.

[Nero Wolfe]

I take it that you found a sample of Hillary's writing. Some letters from Hillary to John.

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, I found a package of them in John's desk at his home.

[Nero Wolfe]

That, Wilbur, is most encouraging.

[Wilbur Martin]

Here they are. Several of them tied together. Some written in 1928 and a couple in 1948.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now we'll tell you something. We never thought John committed suicide either.

[Wilbur Martin]

You. You didn't?

[Nero Wolfe]

No. And before you go, Wilbur, write your name here on this pad.

[Wilbur Martin]

Very well.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you so much. I hope we shall see you tomorrow. Well, I'm surprised, Inspector Kramer, to see you out in such inclement weather.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

I like the cold spells.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sit in the red leather chair.

[Inspector Kramer]

Thanks.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. Have your experts finished checking the will and the letter?

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Yep, but not all through with the package of Hillary's old letters that Wilbur found.

[Archie Goodwin]

What's the verdict?

[Sergeant Hanlon]

If this is forgery, it's the cleverest bit of forgery we've ever come across. My men say the will and the letter you received appear identical with the specimens from John's office.

[Nero Wolfe]

Indeed. The will and the letter then do seem to have been written by John Blake.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

But on the other hand, and this is unusual, by comparing this letter from John with a letter Hillary wrote from Australia, 1948, we found characteristics in both men's letters which were definitely similar.

[Nero Wolfe]

Then, Inspector, you feel that Hillary might have written the letter and signed the will? That it was Hillary who came to my office.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

It's a tough thing to prove, but I think that's being on the right track.

[Archie Goodwin]

Inspector, what about the rest of the package of letters I got from Wilbur Martin?

[Sergeant Hanlon]

They're still working on those down at headquarters.

[Nero Wolfe]

What about young Wilbur?

[Sergeant Hanlon]

So far, can't see much in him to worry about, but it's a bit early.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, phone out to the Blake mansion and tell Wilbur Martin that we've uncovered the whole thing. And if Wilbur's in on it, he'll be gone before you get there. We can pick him up later.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Okay. I'll let you know about the rest of Hillary's letters.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. We won't phone out there until you're.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Finished, and I'll call you as soon as possible.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, I want you to look into the affairs of the Plymouth Building and Loan Company. See what you can learn about the actual stability of the company.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, boss. Please put on your muffler and overcoat and open a window. A candle couldn't burn in this place. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. I'm on my way.

[Anita Blake]

Amita.

[Wilbur Martin]

Amita.

[Anita Blake]

What is it, Wilbur? What's happened?

[Wilbur Martin]

I came out as soon as I heard.

[John Blake]

Well, what's happened? Speak up, man.

[Wilbur Martin]

You haven't heard. You don't know.

[Anita Blake]

Know what?

[Archie Goodwin]

Look.

[Wilbur Martin]

Look at these headlines.

[Anita Blake]

Building in Loan crashes. Wilbur, what does this mean?

[Wilbur Martin]

It means your father embezzled the funds of the company and he has gone to the wall.

[John Blake]

What?

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes. Close the door.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, no, Wilbur, no. I can't believe such a thing.

[Wilbur Martin]

I'm sorry, Anita, but there it is in black and white.

[John Blake]

Then this is the motive for John's suicide. Why? Why? Because he. Well, he knew he was caught. What else?

[Wilbur Martin]

He could have put the money back, couldn't he?

[John Blake]

Yes, but maybe he lost it by trying to make more to cover up the shortage.

[Wilbur Martin]

I don't think he lost it.

[John Blake]

You don't?

[Wilbur Martin]

No.

[John Blake]

Oh, nonsense. He must have, else why would he kill himself?

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe he didn't kill himself.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, this is.

[John Blake]

Oh, please, please, Anita, you mustn't worry. I know this is very embarrassing for you, but it isn't your fault. Now, let me take you away for a while. We can run down to Mexico until this blows over.

[Wilbur Martin]

You won't take her to Mexico. You won't take her any place.

[John Blake]

Just what do you mean?

[Anita Blake]

What's wrong with you? Wilbur, you're acting stupid.

[Wilbur Martin]

Your father may have fleeced the company, but I don't believe he lost the money. Wilbur, he hid the money, and your Uncle Hillary found the hiding place and he set up the suicide to cover your father's murder. Hillary killed him.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, you're crazy. You're out of your mind. Why?

[John Blake]

This doesn't make sense. I have all the money I need.

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, you have.

[John Blake]

Now, pack your things in either. I'll phone the airport for reservations.

[Wilbur Martin]

You can't leave at a time like this. You won't leave this room.

[John Blake]

Do you know what can be done to you for threatening people with firearms? I'll call the police.

[Wilbur Martin]

You don't need to call the police. I've just talked to that detective, Mr. Goodwin. He's on his way here. The police have uncovered everything. I know you killed John and you have the money.

[Anita Blake]

Wilbur, you're out of your mind.

[Wilbur Martin]

I know what I'm talking about.

[Anita Blake]

Get out of here.

[John Blake]

Get out.

[Wilbur Martin]

I won't leave. No one will leave till Goodwin comes.

[Nero Wolfe]

Ah, archie. Come in. Ms. Blake, Mr. Blake, Mr. Martin. Glad you were all able to accept my Invitation. You too, Inspector Grayman.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

I know how glad you are I could be here.

[Inspector Kramer]

Wolf.

[Archie Goodwin]

Please be seated.

[Wilbur Martin]

Folks, Hillary was going to Mexico on the next plane and taking Anita with him.

[Nero Wolfe]

Mexico?

[Wilbur Martin]

John Blake stole the money from the company, but Hillary found out about it and killed him.

[John Blake]

Mr. Wolfe, this is utter nonsense.

[Nero Wolfe]

Mr. Blake, Inspector Kramer's handwriting experts have examined the will and the letter left with me. They have also checked them with your recent letters from Australia.

[Wilbur Martin]

Indeed.

[Nero Wolfe]

And your letters from Australia show a definite resemblance, having the same characteristics as the letter and the will you give me.

[Archie Goodwin]

You.

[John Blake]

You mean you think that I signed the will and wrote the letter?

[Nero Wolfe]

Definitely.

[John Blake]

Ridiculous.

[Nero Wolfe]

But there's something else. The will mentions a painting of Marcia Blake, Anita's mother. Archie, where is that painting?

[Archie Goodwin]

Did you bring it? It's here.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

Bring it in here, Sergeant.

[John Blake]

Just a moment.

[Archie Goodwin]

I hope you don't mind, Ms. Blake.

[Anita Blake]

What are you doing to it?

[Archie Goodwin]

Tearing off the paper backing of the picture.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes. And there you are. There's the reason for the whole thing.

[Wilbur Martin]

Bonds pasted in the back, thousands of dollars in negotiable bonds. Then Hillary did know about the money. He killed John for all this. He had a need to order the picture to be credited for shipping.

[John Blake]

I did no such thing.

[Nero Wolfe]

Nevertheless, you didn't kill John Blake.

[Wilbur Martin]

Certainly he did.

[Nero Wolfe]

Look at these two letters from Hillary Blake to John here in America. What are the dates?

[Wilbur Martin]

September and November 1948.

[Nero Wolfe]

Those were supposedly Hillary's most recent letters to John. And look at these letters. June and July 1928. Notice any difference?

[Archie Goodwin]

All are signed by Hillary. But the ones dated 1928 are not at all like the ones written in 1948.

[Nero Wolfe]

Not the least similarity. The ones dated 1928 were written by Hillary, but those dated 1948 were written by John.

[Archie Goodwin]

John?

[Wilbur Martin]

How do you mean?

[Nero Wolfe]

Carry on, Inspector.

[Sergeant Hanlon]

You're under arrest, Mr. Blake. Not for murder, because there's been no murder. You're under arrest on a charge of embezzlement.

[Anita Blake]

Embezzlement? Oh, but how?

[Sergeant Hanlon]

And you, Ms. Blake, are under arrest as an accomplice.

[Inspector Kramer]

What?

[Wilbur Martin]

I don't understand, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Wilbur, you yourself unearthed the old 1928 letters, rarely written by Hillary from Australia. The recent letters are not in the same handwriting. They were poorly forged by John in 1948. Furthermore, we checked with Australia and learned that Hillary Blake died in Sydney 10 years ago.

[Archie Goodwin]

And this man here is really John Blake, posing as Hillary to escape the penalty for looting the company.

[Wilbur Martin]

Anita? It just doesn't seem possible.

[Nero Wolfe]

Anita knew all about it and they might have gotten away with it if they hadn't come to us.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie, what a fantastic plan.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm giving you back your thousand dollars, Mr. Blake, but I'm afraid it won't do either of you much good now. Thank you so much, Inspector Kramer, for dropping.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, boss, that was a clever bit of deduction.

[Nero Wolfe]

You really think so, Archie? It was quite a blunder. For so clever a man as John Blake.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why did he make the mistake of coming to us?

[Nero Wolfe]

There are many holes in the plans of the criminal mind. He must have forgotten about the 1928 letters or he would have destroyed them.

[Archie Goodwin]

And he underestimated Wilbur's intelligence. And I thought he was a dope, too. But he was half right.

[Nero Wolfe]

He really slipped up on the body in the morgue. Inspector Gramer was most kind to cooperate with us in that little act. Anita was too eager to identify the first body she saw.

[Archie Goodwin]

And the painting. You sensed there was more importance attached to it than the fact that it was a work of art.

[Nero Wolfe]

True. Some beer, please, Artie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Coming up, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now that brings me to an unpleasant subject.

[Archie Goodwin]

What's that?

[Nero Wolfe]

You were talking about resigning. Are you still in that frame of mind?

[Archie Goodwin]

Resigning? When did I say anything like that?

[Nero Wolfe]

Then you're going to be content with conditions as they are?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why, of course.

[Nero Wolfe]

What are you saying? And you don't mind it a bit as long as this dreadful weather continues?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, not at all.

[Anita Blake]

Don't mind what?

[Nero Wolfe]

Going in and out of the house through the coal chute?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You have been listening to the new adventures of Nero Wolf, starring Sidney Greenstreet. Tonight's transcribed story by John Edison was based on the characters created by Rex Stout and produced and directed by J. Donald Wilson. In tonight's cast were Harry Bartell as Archie Goodwin and Victor Rodman, Louise Arthur, Hal Gerard and Bill Johnstone. Next week at this same time, Nero Wolf and Archie will bring you the case of the disappearing diamonds. Don Stanley speaking. Three chimes mean good times on NBC.