The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Collector's Item 08/25/1950

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Collector's Item

Introduction

The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Collector's Item is a gripping episode from the renowned old-time radio series, Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio and featuring Gerald Moore as the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe, this episode delves into a labyrinthine case involving rare coins, deception, and murder. Released on January 26, 2025, but originally aired on August 25, 1950, this narrative showcases Marlowe's sharp wit and unyielding determination in unraveling complex mysteries.

Act 1: The Chase Begins

The episode commences with Philip Marlowe collaborating with a cab driver to surveil a suspect believed to be involved in illicit activities surrounding a rare Confederate half dollar coin. The tension is palpable as Marlowe instructs the cabbie to maintain their pursuit despite the prolonged delay.

• Philip Marlowe: “What difference does it make as long as your flag's down?” [01:58]

As hours pass without results, frustration mounts. The cabbie expresses weariness, hinting at the strain the extended surveillance is placing on both. Marlowe remains steadfast, anticipating a significant transaction scheduled for 10 o'clock that night.

Act 2: Unraveling the Mystery

Their persistent monitoring finally pays off when the suspect abruptly disappears, leading Marlowe to discover that the individual they were tracking, Leon Riadi, has been murdered. The discovery propels Marlowe into a deeper investigation, revealing the intricate connections between the rare coin and the ensuing violence.

• Philip Marlowe: “I ran out of the phone booth, hailed the first cab that came along and headed for 113 Marion Avenue.” [05:23]

Marlowe's meticulous nature surfaces as he inspects the crime scene, noting the absence of the coin and the eerie emptiness left behind. His interaction with the hotel manager further complicates the case, introducing new suspects and shifting motivations.

Act 3: Confrontations and Revelations

As Marlowe delves deeper, he confronts Seth Appleborough, a key figure linked to the coin’s disappearance. Their tense exchange escalates, culminating in a physical altercation that leaves Marlowe questioning the true nature of Appleborough's involvement.

• Philip Marlowe: “Murder? Now see here, sir.” [07:21]

The plot thickens with the introduction of Fred Locke, identified as an undercover Treasury Department agent pursuing Appleborough for multiple crimes. Locke's unexpected betrayal and subsequent murder add layers of deceit and urgency to Marlowe's quest for truth.

Act 4: The Climax and Resolution

In a race against time, Marlowe returns to Seth Appleborough's residence, only to be met with resistance and hidden agendas. Through strategic questioning and keen observation, Marlowe uncovers that Christine Boneman, Pierpont Boneman's niece, orchestrated the murders to possess the coveted coin.

• Christine: “I was sentimental, Uncle. I wanted at least the last of your money as a keepsake.” [17:18]

The confrontation reaches its zenith as Marlowe accuses Christine of manipulating events to secure the rare coin, leading to her downfall. The arrival of the police seals the outcome, ensuring justice is served.

Conclusion

The Collector's Item exemplifies Philip Marlowe's prowess as a detective, showcasing his ability to navigate through deceit, danger, and moral ambiguities. Gerald Moore's portrayal brings depth to Marlowe's character, making the narrative both engaging and intellectually stimulating. The episode underscores themes of greed, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of truth, solidifying its place as a classic in the annals of old-time radio detective stories.

Notable Quotes

• Philip Marlowe on Crime: “Crime is a sucker's road. And those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison or the grave.” [00:25]

• Cabbie’s Frustration: “My old lady be awful sore if I don't get home tonight.” [02:01]

• Seth Appleborough’s Threat: “I’m not going to stand by and let that rare old half dollar be desecrated any farther.” [08:42]

• Christine’s Motivation: “I was sentimental, Uncle. I wanted at least the last of your money as a keepsake.” [17:18]

Closing Remarks

This episode is a testament to the enduring allure of detective fiction and its ability to captivate audiences with intricate plots and compelling characters. Choice Classic Radio Detectives continues to celebrate the Golden Age of Radio by bringing such timeless stories to life, ensuring that Philip Marlowe's adventures remain etched in the hearts of old-time radio enthusiasts.

Transcript

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[Philip Marlowe]

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] get this and get it straight. Crime is a sucker's road. And those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison of the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn.

[Narrator]

From the pen of Raymond Chandler, outstanding author of crime fiction, comes his most famous character in the Adventures of Philip Marlowe. Now with Gerald Moore starred as Philip Marlowe, we bring you tonight's exciting story, the collector's item.

[Philip Marlowe]

They turn the corner, cabbie. Don't lose them.

[Cabbie]

Don't worry, mister. There they are up ahead of that new Nash.

[Philip Marlowe]

Uh huh.

[Cabbie]

And a white panama hat shows up through the back window of that cab like a signboard. Besides, I've been doing okay so far, ain't I? We stayed in this tail for 20 minutes now.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, but I've been tagging the guy under that hat for six hours.

[Cabbie]

Six hours.

[Philip Marlowe]

Throw a movie, a Turkish bar, three bars, a restaurant and two museums. Close the gap a little, huh?

[Cabbie]

Whatever you say, Mr. Deliable to spot us. How much longer you gonna keep this up?

[Philip Marlowe]

What difference does it make as long as your flag's down?

[Cabbie]

Big difference. My old lady be awful sore if I don't get home tonight. And this father leader routine looks like an endurance contest.

[Philip Marlowe]

Take it easy, cabbie. At 10 o'clock tonight, a certain big deal will be closed. And then we can both forget about that guy up there and go home.

[Cabbie]

Big deal? What kind of big deal? I ain't nosy. I just don't want no trouble.

[Philip Marlowe]

You'll get no trouble.

[Cabbie]

It's approximately legal, ain't it?

[Philip Marlowe]

Legal as Confeder Confet.

[Cabbie]

Nah, just a minute. I got a living thigh and I'm serious.

[Philip Marlowe]

So am I. Serious is a rare coin dealer.

[Cabbie]

Oh, a new mismettist.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah, that's right.

[Cabbie]

Well, what do you know? I collect and pennies myself.

[Philip Marlowe]

Small world.

[Cabbie]

And the guy up there on the hat's trying to louse up a sale, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

That it? Roughly, yeah. Keeping an eye on him till a deal goes through at 10. He's a screwball from the deep sooth.

[Cabbie]

Hey, the light's changing. He's gonna be caught. Hey, you want I should slow down?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, no. Up behind him. It's okay.

[Cabbie]

Right. Hey, mister, look. You see that?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Panama hat. It's gone.

[Podbean User]

Yeah.

[Cabbie]

When I drive ahead, his brakes disappear.

[Philip Marlowe]

Pull up beside him, quick.

[Cabbie]

Can you see?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, the seat's empty. Ooh, what a pair of chumps we've been chasing. Nothing but a hat propped up in the back of that seat.

[Cabbie]

No kidding. Gee, you sure looked natural, didn't it, Mr.

[Philip Marlowe]

Nuts? Let me out. Now, look, you get to the other driver. Find out where he dropped his passenger off and anything else you can. Here. Here's 30 bucks for your trouble.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Wow.

[Cabbie]

For that kind of dough, my wife can go ahead and get some. Call me at the office, mister. Just ask for Joe Joplin.

[Philip Marlowe]

Ah.

[Cabbie]

Keep your shirts on.

[Podbean User]

You get there.

[Philip Marlowe]

Come on, Rarity, be there. Be there. You'll go off like a Roman candle. Come on, be there. Hello?

[Podbean User]

Hello, Leon Riadi speaking. Here.

[Philip Marlowe]

Marlowe Riyadhi. I got bad news for you. Huh? Our boy Seth Appleborough pulled a backwoods gag on me and I fell for it flat on my face. He shook me. I don't know how long it happened, but.

[Podbean User]

But I do. I know exactly how long ago Appleboro was here.

[Philip Marlowe]

He was.

[Podbean User]

He was in my shop. He's a madman. That. That madman swore he would kill me, but he didn't.

[Philip Marlowe]

What happened?

[Podbean User]

It was after the coin. Of course. He got tough. But I. I got more tough. I'm not born the day before yesterday. I was forced to ruin a beautiful Renaissance vase on his stupid skull. But at least I got rid of them. So I say, phooey on Seth Appleborough. I beat him up myself. Myself, you hear? And I throw him out. It's finished. So at 10, I shall sell the coin to Pierre Boldman as a range and that will be that.

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, glad to hear it, Rarity. Just send the check to.

[Podbean User]

Just a minute, Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Huh?

[Podbean User]

What's that? What's back there? Who is it?

[Philip Marlowe]

Riotti. Hey, Rarity, what's the matter?

[Podbean User]

No, no.

[Cabbie]

Wait, wait. No.

[Podbean User]

Listen, dog.

[Cabbie]

Ra.

[Philip Marlowe]

You. Rarity. Rarity.

[Cabbie]

Rearing.

[Philip Marlowe]

I ran out of the phone booth, hailed the first cab that came along and headed for 113 Marion Avenue. Leon Riadi's shop was a narrow cell with tattered green shades drawn over dingy windows. The front door was locked, so I went around to the alley where I'd Left my car earlier. The back door to Rayadi's was half open. Riadi sat on the floor, his legs spraddled out, his head slumped against the bottom drawer of his desk like. Like a drunk too tired to look for the way home. Beside him on the floor was all that was left of the reason for it. A small open box lined with blue velvet and labeled Unique Confederate States of America. Half $1 of 4 struck at New Orleans Mint, 1861. Only piece of this series now in existence. Source Colonel J.J. appleboro Collection, 1880. But the box was empty. The four bits worth of Confederate money was gone. I picked the phone up in my handkerchief and called the cab company office. A few minutes later I had Joe Juplin.

[Cabbie]

Yeah, I got that other driver. Okay, mister. But I couldn't pry much out of him, even the hard way I tried. He left that Southern draw off at the Wiltshire Gardens, Villa 9. And he got orders to take the Panama hat on a ten dollar drive around town.

[Philip Marlowe]

That's all.

[Cabbie]

That's all he knows. He thought it was some kind of joke.

[Philip Marlowe]

Wiltshire Gardens, number nine. Okay, Joe, thanks. I called Homicide, told Lieutenant Matthews where he could pick up the body, and before he could order me to stick around, promised to fill in the details later and hung up. After that, I got in my own car and drove to the Wiltshire Gardens Hotel, Villa 9. What finally came to the door? Needs to open a cautious 2 inches. Had a mop of renegade hair the color and shape of tumbleweed, a body as gaunt as a piece of barbed wire, and two sick gray eyes. I tried hard to hide under a pair of scrub brush eyebrows. Seth Appleborough wasn't glad to see me date.

[Seth Appleborough]

Your business, sir. What's more, I'm a busy man. I'm not well, so be brief.

[Philip Marlowe]

Okay. We'll start off with murder.

[Seth Appleborough]

Murder? Now see here, sir.

[Philip Marlowe]

I'll follow that with a missing Confederate. Half a buck. How do I come in peaceful like, or do I knock the door down?

[Seth Appleborough]

Don't go riling me up, Yankee, or you won't get in at all. What's your name?

[Philip Marlowe]

Philip Marlow. My business at the moment is trying to square things with a client I let down very badly.

[Seth Appleborough]

Client? Then you must be referring to that low down, unscrupulous carpet bagger, Leon Rardi.

[Philip Marlowe]

You're a little confused, aren't you? Riadi's from Italy.

[Seth Appleborough]

From northern Italy, sir. And a crooked, unprincipled carpetbagger.

[Philip Marlowe]

You said that.

[Seth Appleborough]

The kind who strips the south of her treasures, who pillages and loots and What? A gun? What's the meaning of that firearm in your hands, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

I haven't got time for another civil war. Now get away from that door. I'm coming in, you carpet bear. Now let's knock off the nonsense, Appleborough. Where's the half a buck?

[Seth Appleborough]

Where indeed? My poor old fool of a grandpappy, the colonel sold it. Sold it? For practically face value, sir. Just to keep body and soul together on the plantation back in 1880. And what he was give for it wasn't worth dirt compared to what that fine old piece of confederate money's really worth.

[Philip Marlowe]

All right, all right. Where is it? Come on, hand it over. I don't have it, sir.

[Seth Appleborough]

Not yet. But by ginger, I'm going to get it. And when I do, it's going home where it belongs, you hear? To the south.

[Philip Marlowe]

You better go to the couch and take another pull on your mint julep, buster. You look bad. Then I want that coin. I'm not kidding.

[Seth Appleborough]

That. That crown me with an iron pot. But that won't stop me, sir. I'm not going to stand by and let that rare old half dollar be desecrated any farther. I'll prevent it being sold to any rich, dawdling oaf of a collector who has the audacity to live in Sherman Oaks if it's the last thing I do. And you. You, sir, you won't stop me either.

[Philip Marlowe]

Sit down. I told you, you cracked pot. I should have known. Win, lose or draw, I'm turning you over to the police right now. Appleborough charges murder and larceny. It's too bad, but you're a cinch to beat both raps on a goofball plea. You, big boy.

[Podbean User]

Put down the phone. Drop your gun.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh. Rebel reinforcements.

[Podbean User]

Drop it, I said.

[Seth Appleborough]

Oh, friend, indeed. Providence is still smiling, sir.

[Podbean User]

Yeah, sure. She's hilarious, Mr. Appleboro. Right, big boy? Well, don't you see the humor of the situation?

[Cabbie]

Oh.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh. The stranger had a flat saucer face. A sour grin in the left hand like a. Like a trip hammer I'd done my best to roll with a punch, but I'd still caught enough of it to jar my brains loose. When I finally got up again, Villa 9 was empty. It took a while for that to soak in, along with another fact. I was up against a team. Appleborough and saucer face. Also, it was now 9:30, which gave me just half an hour to get the Sherman Oaks for what had to be the next scheduled meeting. The Boneman mansion on Clooney Drive. From giant iron gate out front, through overgrown grounds and up to the entrance looked a lot more like the prop room at the Metropolitan Opera than anybody's residence. When I lifted the brass ring in the brass lion's mouth and let it fall, I got another surprise. She had deep hazel eyes with long lashes, close cropped copper colored hair and packed full green suede dress that put no strain on the imagination. Her bare shoulders made you think of toasted marshmallows.

[Christine]

Hello.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hello. You. You wouldn't be Pierpont Boldman, huh?

[Christine]

And you must have had some reason for knocking other than window shopping.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah. My name's Marlow. I used to work for Leon Radi before he was murdered tonight.

[Christine]

Murder?

[Philip Marlowe]

Mm.

[Christine]

Is this supposed to concern my Uncle Kerpont?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, I think it does. The fuss that's being kicked up about four bits worth of confederate money. You'd think that it was a chest of easterling sterling silver.

[Christine]

Only four bits?

[Philip Marlowe]

Uh huh.

[Christine]

Yes, yes, I'm afraid he is vitally interested. Come in, Marlowe. Wait here. Uncle Pierpont. Come here.

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[Pierpont Boneman]

Well, what's the matter? Christine?

[Christine]

There's a man here to see you. A Mr. Marlo. You'd better talk to him.

[Pierpont Boneman]

What do you want?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, you.

[Pierpont Boneman]

What is it, Marlo?

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, it's about the half a dollar. The one you intend to buy from Leon Rar, Mr. Bowman.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Oh yeah, yeah. Well, what about it? Man?

[Philip Marlowe]

Radi was murdered tonight.

[Pierpont Boneman]

That murdered you say? If that's true, he hasn't had time to hit the ground yet. What's your game, sonny? You must have some kind of a game. What is it?

[Philip Marlowe]

No games. I'm telling you. Rayadi was shot and the coin stolen.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Are you sure about that? Are you positive? No mistake?

[Christine]

Are you certain, Marlow?

[Philip Marlowe]

I couldn't be more certain if it was tattooed on my forehead. I heard it happen and saw his body over an hour ago.

[Christine]

What do you think of that, Uncle Pierpont? Marlow looks at dead bodies too.

[Pierpont Boneman]

I think it's bobbycock. Yep. What do you think, Chris?

[Philip Marlowe]

Wait a minute. Let me tell you what I Think it's more to the point. I came here because I'm also certain that the man who killed Rarity is the man who took the coin. And that he'll show up here in the next few minutes posing as Rarity and try to sell you that half a buck as planned. I want you two to help me get him.

[Christine]

You know, Marlowe, I think you're bummed.

[Philip Marlowe]

Now, look, baby, I've had quite enough.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Hold on, hold on now. There's just one teensy thing wrong with your little scheme, Marlowe. You see, 10 minutes ago, Leon Riadi, or someone who said he was Leon Riadi, was here. I gave him $37,000 cash as agreed, and he gave me this. The only one of its kind in the world. The 1861 Confederate half dollar.

[Narrator]

In just a moment, we will return to the second act of Philip Marlowe. But first, there are Songs for Sale. And one of them may turn into the nation's newest hit as you listen in to CBS on Friday nights. This hour long program of melody is called Songs for Sale. And during the hour you hear four songwriters with unpublished music as they present their tunes to a panel of veteran top flight songwriters. At the end, the panel picks out one song to be published and plugged. And you'll hear the reasons they give for their choice. Be listening to Songs for Sale tonight on most of these same CBS stations. Now with our star, Gerald Moore, the second act of Philip Marlowe and tonight's story, the collector's item.

[Philip Marlowe]

When the wobbly screwball collector clinked the $37,000.50 piece on the tabletop in front of me, his eyes flashed on like a pair of unfrosted light bulbs. And something close to froth started to collect in the upturned corners of his mouth that smiled like the cat that had just eaten the canary cage, birdseed and all. There was little doubt about it. Septuagenarian Pierpont Boneman was what an eccentric would call eccentric. And he was very unconcerned with the murder of Leon Radi and very fuzzy about what Radi's impersonator had looked and sounded like.

[Pierpont Boneman]

I'm afraid I can help little on that score. Mr. Marlowe only had eyes for the coin. And what a coin she is. Why send me, Mr.

[Philip Marlowe]

Bowman? You've got to remember something. Height, build, color of eyes, hair, voice. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Voice. Was it a Southern accent? Think, Mr. Bowman.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Southern accent.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah.

[Pierpont Boneman]

No, no, Mr. Marlowe can't say if it was or not. My hearing isn't all it Used to be, you know. But Christine here now, maybe she can. No, no, no, no. Christine wasn't in the room. Answered the door myself.

[Christine]

But I did see him come up the walk, Mr. Marlowe, from my room upstairs. He was tall, about your height, perhaps a mite shorter. Any wore a grace? You? No, no, no. Darker than gray, sort of light blue shade.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, that's great. Yeah, thanks a lot. Before I start reaching for a butterfly net myself, I think I better get back to Seth Appleborough's place on Wilshire.

[Christine]

Why there? Surely if he's the guilty one, Mr. Marlow, he won't wait to be apprehended.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not on purpose, no. But when I last ran into him and his buddy. Buddy with a saucer face. He was fighting an acute case of vertigo. Might have collapsed since. And besides, I don't know where else to go.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Oh, but sir, why must you go any place? The police will attend to that, Mr. Mr. Appleborough. Now look, Mr. Marlowe, here on the.

[Philip Marlowe]

Rim of the Mr. Boneman. This may mean nothing in the Numismatic league, but I went to work for Leon Riadi to protect him. A job I didn't do. Also, losing clients this way is bad for my business and conscience. Good night and happy gathering coins in May.

[Christine]

Mr. Marlow, wait. Please, please, Mr. Marlowe, let me see you out and explain something. Be just a minute, Uncle.

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, what is it?

[Christine]

I'll pay you $500, Mr. Marlowe. Not Confederate dollars either. To see that uncle gets his money back and that the coin is returned to that Mr. Rardi's estate.

[Philip Marlowe]

What? You're against the deal? Why?

[Christine]

Because it's the hundredth one in the past two years.

[Philip Marlowe]

You hate to see the money you'll one day inherit go to a bunch of screwballs, huh?

[Christine]

Why you foul minded so good? I got news for you, Mr. Marlowe. It's not my inheritance I'm concerned with, it's my uncle. In spite of this mansion and all the junk in it, that $37,000 was every cent he had left.

[Philip Marlowe]

Okay, kid. In that case, two points. One, I have the slap coming. Two, I'll do my best to back up everything too where I came in. Good night.

[Christine]

Good night. And Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah?

[Christine]

I. I didn't enjoy slapping you.

[Philip Marlowe]

She said it like she meant it. Twenty minutes later I was back at the Wilshire Gardens where I found Villa 9 as dark and quiet as the bottom of a well. I had just about decided to quit playing long shots labeled. I hope he passed out on his front doorstep when from A nearby clump of pepper trees. I caught a glimpse of a shadowed figure moving toward me one slow step at a time. I knew that I was spotted and strictly sitting duck, so I tried the only possible out general nonchalance. My back to the pepper trees long enough for the not so stealthy hunter to get within hunting distance. Then a good good evening to you, brother Appleboro. Now, sir, get up and start talking. Well, saucer face. Thought I had your partner gone wrong.

[Podbean User]

Hasty. And you're still doing it. Appleboro's my partner. Like you look good in tights. The name is Locke. Fred Locke. Treasury Department treasurer.

[Philip Marlowe]

You mean you're after Appleboro?

[Podbean User]

Uh huh. I sapped you because from the gab I overheard, I figured you were nothing but a lone wolf shooting with a coin. Appleboro friend is big game. He's wanted on half a dozen counts. A lot more important than this Confederate. Half a buck.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, but he must have gotten away from you because I.

[Pierpont Boneman]

He did.

[Podbean User]

He did. Jumped out of my car a couple of blocks from here. But how do you know about that? Who are you?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, my name's Marlow. I'm a private detective. License included, limit here. I know that Appleborough got away because he's already been up to the Boneman place where he posed as my client, Leon Riadi, who, incidentally, he killed so he could sell the Confederate lucky piece up there for 37,000 bucks.

[Podbean User]

Quite a hunk of change.

[Philip Marlowe]

Mm.

[Podbean User]

Well, sorry we crossed our wires, Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

And thanks for the word.

[Podbean User]

Don't worry. He won't get far. Us t men will see to that. Keep in touch with the department if you find out anything, will you?

[Philip Marlowe]

Sure. Oh, say, Lock.

[Podbean User]

Yeah? What is it?

[Philip Marlowe]

Just a hunch. Oh, like what? Like you're a cockeyed liar. Like treasury men don't call themselves team any more than private detectives call themselves private eyes. Now, Locke, let's try inside your jacket. Get rid of this non treasury department. Luger, check the wallet and see if at least Fred Locke is your real name.

[Podbean User]

It's my name. It's my name.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Surprise. It is out of imagination. Gee, man, come on. Get up and start working on a few other questions. Like where Seth Appleboro is at the moment. And exactly what you're guy in is with Blossoms. Well, do we keep this up all night? No, no, no. I'll tell you.

[Podbean User]

I'll tell you everything.

[Philip Marlowe]

Okay, now, where's the setup? Come on.

[Podbean User]

Yeah, yeah. There were two of us.

[Seth Appleborough]

Me and Adam.

[Podbean User]

No, not.

[Philip Marlowe]

It had come from the street. That was just beyond the pepper trees and slammed into lock front and center. Folded him up like it was bull on hinges. By the time I was out of the impact area and had my.38 in hand, the only target I had was a pair of tail lights blinking out of sight in a funnel of dust. Fred lock was blood smeared, dead and made an ugly centerpiece for the little ring of startled faces that the. I stepped back and became just another sightseer when a small bald man with a large white eyebrow and lots of worry stamped on his face began to do his lamenting out loud. He was the Wiltshire gardens hotel manager and didn't care much for public spectacles on the home grounds.

[Hotel Manager]

Oh, my goodness. One minute that Mr. Appleborough unconscious in his car, and the next, this man that is shot to death.

[Philip Marlowe]

Wait a minute, wait a minute. Appleborough's unconscious in his car where they.

[Hotel Manager]

Live at the other end of the ground. There's a nasty cut in his forehead one of the guests just found in there. I was just about to call a doctor.

[Philip Marlowe]

Never mind the doctor. Show me the way. Come on, come on, Come on, Dixie boy. Breathe deep. Who?

[Pierpont Boneman]

Oh, you again.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, me again. And you're up to your drawing a couple of untidy murders. Now snap out of it.

[Hotel Manager]

Oh, my. It's no use. He doesn't even hear you.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yes, all right. While it's this peaceful, I think I'll check on this drooping flower of the old south. His wallet should do it.

[Hotel Manager]

Do what?

[Philip Marlowe]

Prove whether or not he gave me a straight pitch. Yeah, what do you know? Membership card. Sons of the confederacy, New Orleans chapter.

[Cabbie]

Here, let me.

[Philip Marlowe]

Uh.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Huh.

[Hotel Manager]

Oh, that's his picture, all right.

[Philip Marlowe]

Sure is. Well, when the police get here, they. Hey, look.

[Hotel Manager]

Yeah, what is it?

[Philip Marlowe]

His wristwatch was smashed against the dashboard.

[Hotel Manager]

So it is. He must have held his hand up to protect his head when he fell forward.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Now, look, friend, the name's Marlow. When the law gets here, tell him they can find me at Sherman Oaks, the pierpont Bowman residence.

[Hotel Manager]

Oh, now, wait a minute here. You can't leave me here with all.

[Philip Marlowe]

This on my hands.

[Hotel Manager]

The police are going to want to.

[Seth Appleborough]

Know what this is all about.

[Philip Marlowe]

I'll try and have an answer for, but first I gotta ask a crazy collector a not so crazy question.

[Christine]

Well, hello, Mr. Marlow. I was hoping you'd come back.

[Philip Marlowe]

No flowers and candy? Honey, this isn't a social call.

[Christine]

Then what brings you here?

[Philip Marlowe]

Your uncle. Is he still up?

[Christine]

Yes, but he asked not to be disturbed.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Why?

[Philip Marlowe]

I got a picture. I want him to look at what.

[Christine]

Kind of a picture?

[Philip Marlowe]

A man. Possibly the man who sold him the coin tonight. Now, where is he?

[Christine]

In the gun room. But he'll scream bloody murder if we bother him.

[Philip Marlowe]

That's the subject on hand.

[Christine]

You mean you found out who killed Leon Riarty?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, no. I found out someone else has been killed. Come on. Huh?

[Christine]

Over that coin. Who was it? Marlow?

[Philip Marlowe]

Guy named Locke. We'll get to the fine print later. Is this the room? Yes, but I'm just the man I want to see. Oh, Mr. Bowman, I. You. Well, it's quite a blunderbuss. Look, point that somewhere else.

[Pierpont Boneman]

So it is. But don't let it worry you. Mr. Marlowe, this arquebus hasn't been fired in 300 years.

[Philip Marlowe]

That's great. Let's not spoil its record tonight, shall we?

[Pierpont Boneman]

Here, have a look. Fine workmanship later on.

[Philip Marlowe]

Right now, Mr. Bowman, I want you to have a look. This picture. It's Seth Appleborough. Is this the man who sold you the coin? The one you couldn't remember?

[Pierpont Boneman]

No, no, not the party. Now, on this gun. Mr. Bowman.

[Philip Marlowe]

Uncle, we've had another murder.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Oh. Oh, my. That's too bad. But what's all that got to do with me?

[Philip Marlowe]

I'm not sure. But Mr. Bowman, if Appleborough wasn't the one who sold you that hot half a buck, it must have been an item named Locke. The saucer faced buddy. Buddy I told you about before. The one who sapped me at Wiltshire Gardens.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Very interesting. And perhaps tomorrow, Mr. Paul.

[Christine]

Please go on, Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, there isn't much more. When I left here and I went back for Appleboro, I ran into Locke. We mixed it up. And I was just about to get him to talk when he was shot out from under me.

[Christine]

What? Appleborough did it. He shot Locke?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, he couldn't have.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Why not?

[Philip Marlowe]

Because Appleborough was out cold in his car at the time.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Then all you really know is that Appleborough didn't kill this Locke.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, I know a little more. I also know now that there's a third interested party mixed in.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Who?

[Philip Marlowe]

You. Maybe Uncle.

[Pierpont Boneman]

What, me?

[Philip Marlowe]

Sure. You could have killed Rarity via hired flunky like Locke. Sold yourself the coin. After all. You're broke. It's been done before.

[Pierpont Boneman]

You're mad.

[Christine]

It's insane, Marlow, the idea to think that uncle would hire the likes of Fred Locke. Wyatt slips.

[Philip Marlowe]

Christine. You shouldn't have known Locke's front name was Fred, should you? I never mentioned it.

[Pierpont Boneman]

What? Christine, you mean.

[Christine]

I mean that nobody moves.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Christine.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, Fine.

[Christine]

This is one gun in here that's no relic. It's been fired something less than 300 years ago.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, to be exact, less than an hour ago at the Wilshire Gardens. When you used it to keep Locke quiet.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Huh? You, Christine. You're the third party Marlow is talking about. You hired Fred Locke and Appleburg had.

[Philip Marlowe]

Nothing to do with it. Mr. Boneman. It was your niece's partner, Fred Locke, who killed Rardi in his shop and stole a half a buck. After that, he followed me to Appleborough's place in Wilshire gardens. There he KO'd me and Appleboro both, then came out here and sold you.

[Pierpont Boneman]

The coin posing as Riad.

[Christine]

Correct. You can both go to the head of the club.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not yet. One question, teacher. Why did luck go back to Appleborough's? Couldn't have been just luck that I found him there.

[Christine]

It wasn't. He was afraid. Appleborough had seen him kill Rardi at the shop. He had to know for sure. Your turn, Uncle.

[Pierpont Boneman]

Why did you do it, Christine?

[Christine]

I was sentimental, Uncle. I wanted at least the last of your money as a keepsake. And now that I've got it, I want one thing more before I leave that half dollar in your pocket. Hand it over. Come on.

[Pierpont Boneman]

The half dollar.

[Philip Marlowe]

But it's worthless to you, Christine. You can never sell it again. Every collector in the world will be on the lookout for it.

[Christine]

Don't you think I know that?

[Pierpont Boneman]

Then what do you want with it?

[Christine]

The pleasure of getting rid of it. I hate it. Like I hate every piece of junk you've squandered your fortune on. The fortune I'd have inherited. Someday I'm gonna throw it in the first deep river I come to.

[Podbean User]

Hand it over.

[Philip Marlowe]

No, you don't, Christine.

[Podbean User]

Drop it. Drop it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Sit in that chair while you can. You may end up in another one. The police arrived. They always do. And after a long hour of questions and answers, there were only two of us left. Pierpont Bowman standing close to a window, tears crowding his eyes, the fingers of his right hand nervously toying with the Confederate coin. And me thinking about Leon Radi and Fred Locke. And Christine. It was the old man who finally broke it up. A rotten thing. I left after that, so I don't know if Appleborough got the coin or not. You might check if. If you're ever running through the New Orleans Museum.

[Narrator]

The adventures of Philip Marlowe bringing you Raymond Chandler's most famous character star Gerald Moore are produced and directed by Richard Sanville and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the cast were D.J. thompson, Anthony Barrett, Shepard Menken, Tom Tully and Jack Crucian. The special music is composed and conducted by Richard Arant. Be sure and be with us again next week when Philip Marlowe says, this.

[Philip Marlowe]

Time an old man dead in a flop house, a sot who carved wood, a fallen lady with an eye for gold lockets and a snake with big ears all led me to a soft spot in a killer's hard heart.

[Narrator]

Every Friday night, CBS brings you stories taken from the files of parole boards of the 48 states with only the names changed. These stories give and detail the events of a criminal's life up to the time he is up for parole. Then, before you hear the board's decision, you can make up your mind, is this man ready to be set free? It's been hailed by press and public alike as an outstanding anti crime show. And you can hear it now by staying tuned because up for Parole follows immediately on most of these same CBS stations. Roy Rowan speaking. This is cbs, where you play Sing It Again. Every Saturday night, the Columbia Broadcasting System.