The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Glass Donkey 07/28/1950

Summary

Summary of "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Glass Donkey"

Podcast Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Glass Donkey
Release Date: December 29, 2024

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Introduction to the Case

The episode begins with private detective Philip Marlowe receiving unsettling news about his acquaintance, Helen Lofton. As Marlowe reflects on Helen's vibrant personality, his concern turns personal upon learning of her untimely death.

Philip Marlowe (00:34): "Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison or the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn."

The Murder of Helen Lofton

Marlowe learns from Detective Lieutenant Matthews that Helen was murdered with a bullet to the neck. Troubled by the lack of leads, Marlowe decides to investigate further, driven by his personal connection to Helen.

Detective Lieutenant Matthews (00:52): "No reason, no motive, no leads. Unless you can call this a clue, which I don't."

Investigation and Leads

Marlowe visits the morgue to pay his respects and gathers initial clues. He discovers a broken glass donkey near the crime scene, which becomes a significant piece of evidence linking the case.

Philip Marlowe (05:04): "I noticed the light on inside the house... I saw a girl, blonde, with harlequin horn rims, moving stiffly like a lost somnambulist."

Encounter with Lyla Hughes

During his investigation, Marlowe meets Lyla Hughes, Helen's close friend. Through their conversation, Marlowe uncovers Helen's limited personal life and learns about Norman Maffey, Helen's and Lyla's boss.

Lyla Hughes (06:08): "Helen never said much about her dates."

Linking Norman Maffey

Marlowe confronts Norman Maffey, Helen's employer, suspecting his involvement due to his strained relationship with Helen and possible motives related to his personal life.

Philip Marlowe (09:10): "Mr. Maffey? Are you a reporter?"

Philip Marlowe (10:25): "Because we've been separated for several years. She lives in San Diego, and we have as little as possible to do with each other."

Encounter with Victor Samira

The plot thickens when Marlowe encounters Victor Samira, who provides crucial information about another murder case involving Mrs. Norman Maffey. This connection broadens the scope of Marlowe's investigation, indicating a pattern of violence linked to Maffey.

Victor Samira (12:24): "Mrs. Maffey?... Run over? Well, Mike, you said it was a mystery story."

Climax and Revelation

Marlowe pieces together the evidence, leading him back to Norman Maffey's residence. In a dramatic confrontation, Marlowe discovers that Lyla Hughes is the true perpetrator, motivated by jealousy and a desire to protect her relationship with Maffey.

Lyla Hughes (24:07): "Of course it was me, honey. I killed him. I killed Helen. I killed your wife. Well, about her. I'm not sorry. I'd do it again."

Conclusion

With the case resolved, Marlowe reflects on the complexities of human motivations and the tragic outcomes of unchecked emotions. Detective Lieutenant Matthews commends Marlowe's keen investigative skills, wrapping up the episode with a sense of closure.

Philip Marlowe (25:19): "You devil."

Detective Lieutenant Matthews (29:37): "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe Presented by Wrigley Spearmint Gum."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Philip Marlowe (00:34): "Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison or the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn."

• Detective Lieutenant Matthews (00:52): "No reason, no motive, no leads. Unless you can call this a clue, which I don't."

• Philip Marlowe (05:04): "I noticed the light on inside the house... I saw a girl, blonde, with harlequin horn rims, moving stiffly like a lost somnambulist."

• Philip Marlowe (10:25): "Because we've been separated for several years. She lives in San Diego, and we have as little as possible to do with each other."

• Lyla Hughes (24:07): "Of course it was me, honey. I killed him. I killed Helen. I killed your wife. Well, about her. I'm not sorry. I'd do it again."

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Key Takeaways

• Complex Relationships: The episode highlights the intricate web of personal and professional relationships that often underlie criminal motives.

• Deductive Reasoning: Philip Marlowe's methodical approach underscores the importance of attention to detail and logical deduction in solving mysteries.

• Emotional Depth: The narrative delves into themes of jealousy, betrayal, and the destructive nature of unaddressed emotions.

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This episode of "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Glass Donkey" offers listeners a classic detective story filled with suspense, character development, and a satisfying resolution, all while maintaining the charm of old-time radio drama.

Transcript

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[Lyla Hughes]

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[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

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[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

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My church too.

I love it.

[Philip Marlowe]

I really do. Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we.

[Podbean Announcer]

Bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank.

[Philip Marlowe]

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 or the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

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[Podbean Announcer]

Hello.

[Philip Marlowe]

Philip Marlowe.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, this is Matthew's film.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hi.

[Podbean Announcer]

Listen, Phil.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah?

[Podbean Announcer]

Didn't you once go around with a brunette named Helen Lofton?

[Philip Marlowe]

Helen Lofton? Sure. Still do now and then. Why? Lieutenant Monday, your night off?

[Podbean Announcer]

Not sure as you'd notice, Marlow. When was the last time you saw her?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, maybe a month ago. Hey, what is this? You sound real official.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, I know. Sometimes I don't like it and me better than the next guy. Look, Phil, did Helen have any big problems on her mind at that time?

[Philip Marlowe]

Just me. Hey, wait a minute, Matthews. Is Helen in trouble?

[Podbean Announcer]

Not now, but she was in lots of it three hours ago. At about 5:00 this afternoon, somebody put a bullet in her neck. Phil.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, no.

[Podbean Announcer]

Down here at the morgue. If you think of anything, let me know, will you?

[Philip Marlowe]

Might as well have hit me in the stomach with a hammer. Helen Lofton, a good to look at girl with soft black hair and clear hazel eyes, gets a big charge out of life. But Helen is, I mean, was a great Girl. And she'd always had enough sense not to waste time on the kind of people who put bullets in other people. For a long few minutes, I just sat in my apartment and felt sorry. But then I began to want to get my hands on whoever had pulled the trigger. By the time I got downtown and walked into the morgue attendant's office, that urge had become a big, hot lump in my chest. Ah, Mr. Marlow. Hello, Chester. Yeah.

[Podbean Announcer]

Stranger around here lately?

[Philip Marlowe]

You got a Helen Lofton? I'd like to pay my respects. Can't stop you, boy.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, yeah, she's still on the table.

[Philip Marlowe]

You'll have a little company back there, Lieutenant. Matthew? Oh, he's still here? Oh, he's been in and out all evening.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hey, can you find your way all right?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Thanks, Justin.

[Podbean Announcer]

I didn't expect you in person, Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

You could have called.

[Podbean Announcer]

Got something to offer on the Lofton girl here?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, my services, Matthews.

[Podbean Announcer]

How much did she mean to you, Phil?

[Philip Marlowe]

Enough to make this real personal. What have you got on it, Matthews?

[Podbean Announcer]

Nothing. A neighbor reported the shot. Found Helen's body spilled down some stairs. At the side of her house was a.32 at close range. No reason, no motive, no leads. Unless you can call this a clue, which I don't.

[Philip Marlowe]

I see that it could be the hind leg of one of Helen's glass donkeys. You know, she collected them.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, I was on the stairs near the body.

[Philip Marlowe]

Uh huh. Hey, look, Matthews, you don't mind me sticking my two cents in this, do you? It'll do me a lot of good.

[Podbean Announcer]

No, I don't mind. Just keep me posted, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

I drove out Sunset Boulevard, then north on Camino Avenue to the neat little house where Helen had lived. He sat very quietly back under some big magnolia trees. Someone had drawn the blinds on the two front windows and had made them look like. Like a pair of closed eyes. I walked around to the side door on the stairs where they found her body. And that's when I noticed the light on inside the house. The door was unlocked, so I went in. Light was coming from the bedroom. And when I got to that door, I saw a girl, blonde, with harlequin horn rims, moving stiffly like a lost somnambulist. I watched her drag one slow finger the full length of the dresser. When that was over, I. I said. Hello.

[Lyla Hughes]

Who are you?

[Philip Marlowe]

I was a friend of Helen's. Philip Marlowe. You?

[Lyla Hughes]

Lyla Hughes?

[Philip Marlowe]

You.

[Lyla Hughes]

You startled me. I thought I was alone in here, and after all that's happened.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Did you. Do you Know Helen pretty well?

[Lyla Hughes]

Yes. I was just about her only girlfriend. You see, we worked together in the same office and had the same boss. I. I guess they're gonna want me to do something about all of her things now.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Yeah, it's real tough. Everything in the house is just another reminder. Even this little sherry decanter here.

[Lyla Hughes]

But that's Helen's.

[Philip Marlowe]

It's all right. Sit down. Drink it at least. It'll do you good. Look, Lila, I gotta know why this happened to Helen. It doesn't make sense. Can you help me? Any idea at all?

[Lyla Hughes]

No. No, the police have already talked to me about it. Please, mister, I know.

[Philip Marlowe]

I know this is unpleasant for you, but I need some answers. It's been over a month since I saw last. Who's she been going with lately?

[Lyla Hughes]

I don't know. Helen never said much about her dates.

[Philip Marlowe]

Who's your boss?

[Lyla Hughes]

Mr. Maffey. Oh, she dated him a few times. But so have I. Surely you don't think Mr. Matthew.

[Philip Marlowe]

I just want to talk to him, that's all.

[Lyla Hughes]

It's Norman Maffey. Maffey Real Estate Company on Wiltshire. He lives on Ogden Drive. 3848.

[Philip Marlowe]

Thanks, Lila. Well, I'll be on my way now. Hey, look, maybe you better come too, huh? Let all this go until tomorrow when you're feeling better.

[Lyla Hughes]

Yes, I guess you're right.

[Philip Marlowe]

I turned out the light and snapped the lock as we left. Then walked the sad little blonde as far as her coupe, got her address on Beechwood Drive and saw her off. After that I went to my own car. But before I got in, I looked back at Helen's house once more and tried to shake the empty, loose feeling it had given me. I was snapped out of that mood in a hurry. A man with a half an acre of for it had just twisted out of sight behind a tree truck in the backyard. I started for him and he broke and ran toward the wall in the alley. It was a six footer. He rolled across the top and fell over. When I got there, he was up and gone. He hadn't had time to get out of the alley, but it was empty, which could only mean he was laying for me. Come here, you. You don't mister, this time any trash in good neighborhoods is no softer than trash anyplace else. When I finally got clear of it, the forehead was gone. I figured all I had to show was one of his patch pockets, which I still had clenched in my hand. But there was something else Glittering on the ground was what had been in that pocket. A little glass donkey with a hind leg missing. On the way back, I stopped once and tried to call Matthews, but he was out. So I drove on down to Ogden Drive as far as number 3848. A gray at the temples type in blue flannel opened up.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes?

[Philip Marlowe]

Mr. Maffey?

[Podbean Announcer]

Are you a reporter?

[Philip Marlowe]

I'm a friend of Helen Lofton's. Also, I'm a private detective named Marlow. I'd like to talk to you.

[Podbean Announcer]

Private detective?

[Philip Marlowe]

Mm.

[Podbean Announcer]

Who hired you, Mr. Marlow? Who are you working for?

[Philip Marlowe]

Myself. Like I said, Helen was a friend of mine.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, I. I'm quite busy, Marlow, but come in. Come back this way to the den. I've already been interviewed by the police.

[Philip Marlowe]

You may be again. It's not quite like being vaccinated, Mr. Matvey.

[Podbean Announcer]

Now, just why have you come here to see me?

[Philip Marlowe]

Because I intend to find out who shot Helen.

[Podbean Announcer]

What makes you think I'd have the remotest idea?

[Philip Marlowe]

Nothing special. She worked for you, didn't she?

[Podbean Announcer]

So do several other people.

[Philip Marlowe]

You dated her?

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes, I did. She was a very attractive girl, but that was no reason for me to kill her.

[Philip Marlowe]

There was no reason for anybody to kill her. Mr. Matthew. Suppose I was to tell you that I'm acquainted with your wife.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, so that's it. You cheap blackmailer. Get out.

[Philip Marlowe]

Then you do have a wife, huh?

[Podbean Announcer]

Now, look here, Marlo. You don't have to be sly with me. I'm not hiding anything. Ask me what you want to know and get out of here.

[Philip Marlowe]

How come Mrs. Maffey doesn't object when you dine and dance? The offer's help.

[Podbean Announcer]

Because we've been separated for several years.

[Philip Marlowe]

Separated but not divorced.

[Podbean Announcer]

That's right. She lives in San Diego, and we have as little as possible to do with each other. My bank takes care of our only mutual interest. She refuses to give me a divorce.

[Philip Marlowe]

Did you tell the police all this?

[Podbean Announcer]

They didn't ask.

[Philip Marlowe]

Did they happen to ask where you were this afternoon about 5?

[Podbean Announcer]

As a matter of fact, they didn't. I wasn't being treated as a suspect then, and I don't intend to be now.

[Philip Marlowe]

Okay, Mr. Matthew. Where were you? Now, look, I'm a private detective, remember? I'm not even taking notes. All right. Motto.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right. Been having business troubles lately. A lot on my mind. I was out driving in my car, trying to relax.

[Philip Marlowe]

Can't prove it, can you?

[Podbean Announcer]

No, probably not. I don't expect to have to try.

[Philip Marlowe]

All right. Tell me something else. Do you happen to know anything about a man With a very high forehead. A young guy, maybe 30, about 6ft tall.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes. Yes, I do. Helen went out with a fellow like that recently.

[Philip Marlowe]

What's his name?

[Podbean Announcer]

Victor Samira, I think.

[Philip Marlowe]

Why? Well, I ran across him tonight and I didn't like his. His attitude. Sure, that's it. I'll bet on it.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, what are you staring at? This ashtray?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, that little dunky in front of a bedding window. Thanks for everything, Matthew. I'll see you. The ashtray on the table behind Matthew's desk had been made of baked clay in the shape of a sombrero. A keepsake from old Mexico. That kicked hard at my memory. At least it was a thought well worth the price of a phone call to Tijuana. So I drove as far as the first payphone, which was at an all night mobile gas station. Got a handful of change and while my car was being gassed, put the call through to my old friend Senor Mike Donahue, who had given up reporting in Chicago for editing south of the Border. We are ready on your call now, sir.

[Podbean Announcer]

Go ahead.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hello, Mike. Hello, old pal.

[Mike Donahue]

Hasta la vista. What's cooking?

[Philip Marlowe]

You coming down to see me later on? Listen, Mike, I'm trying to find out about a glass donkey.

[Mike Donahue]

A witch?

[Philip Marlowe]

A donkey made of glass. A souvenir mule. It's got silver shoes and a silver halter.

[Mike Donahue]

Oh, one of those things. That silver works strictly a Tijuana product.

[Philip Marlowe]

You know, pedal them at the highlight games down here out by the bedding windows.

[Mike Donahue]

That's right.

[Philip Marlowe]

Can't buy them anyplace else, Mike.

[Mike Donahue]

No, not that I know of. Why, you want some?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, I've already got one. Well, thanks a lot, Mike. You've been a big help.

[Mike Donahue]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Philip Marlowe]

What's the matter?

[Mike Donahue]

As long as you're on the wire, gumshoe, maybe you can help me.

[Philip Marlowe]

How?

[Mike Donahue]

I got a big front page mystery spread. If I can get a little more dope. Ever hear of a babe around LA named, let's see, Mrs. Norman Maffey?

[Philip Marlowe]

Mrs. Nor. Mrs. Norman Maffey?

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah.

[Philip Marlowe]

Holy smoke. I'll say. So, Mike, what's the story?

[Mike Donahue]

Well, the boys just found her body out here on a side road at.

[Philip Marlowe]

The edge of town.

[Mike Donahue]

Been dead a couple of days. Probably happened Saturday night.

[Philip Marlowe]

Saturday night?

[Mike Donahue]

Yeah, the hotel identified her about 10 minutes ago. She was run over.

[Philip Marlowe]

Run over? Well, Mike, you said it was a mystery story.

[Mike Donahue]

Yeah. You see, the tire tracks out there is still good. It was no accident, Phil.

[Podbean Announcer]

It was murdered.

[Mike Donahue]

Somebody went a long ways out of their way.

[Lyla Hughes]

Yeah, Podbean.

[Podbean Announcer]

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Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts. Use Podbean to record your podcast.

Use PodBean AI to optimize your podcast.

[Philip Marlowe]

Use PodBean AI to turn your blog into a podcast.

[Podbean Announcer]

Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere.

Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, Mike, somebody sure did.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

To make every day more enjoyable, treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. The lively, full bodied, real mint flavor cools your mouth, moistens your throat, freshens your taste, and the chewing itself gives you a little lift, helps you keep going at your best. So for real chewing enjoyment that's refreshing and long lasting, always keep Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum handy. Healthful, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Gum will make every day more enjoyable. Now with our star, Gerald Moore, the second act of Philip Marlow, and tonight's exciting story, the Glass Donkey.

[Philip Marlowe]

When I hung up on Mike Donahue and The news of Mrs. Matthews violent death on a lonely road outside of Tijuana, I postponed trying to figure it all out until I had called Lieutenant Matthews at Homicide, but asked him to meet me at the bar I was at 10 minutes later, Matthews was sitting opposite me and chewing on a cold pipe while I filled him in.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, now, easy, Phil. I'm asleep. Slow and steady, boy. Now, question. Who killed Helen Law?

[Philip Marlowe]

Answer. Whoever killed Mrs. Norman Matthew.

[Podbean Announcer]

Why? Where's the tie?

[Philip Marlowe]

That last donkey I just told you about, it came from Tijuana.

[Lyla Hughes]

So?

[Philip Marlowe]

So I figured that whoever sent it to Helen was one, a friend who knew she'd get a kick out of a trinket like that, and two, sent it before he or she decided to kill Mrs. Maffey.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh.

[Podbean Announcer]

And therefore, said friend had to get the glass donkey back because if traced, it would place the killer into Ioana, where Sooner or later, Mrs. Mat's body had to be found. Is that right?

[Philip Marlowe]

That's so very right. And all that brings us back to Only one thing Mrs. Maffey's killer also got. Helen Lofton was forced to. Yeah, yeah, it could be.

[Podbean Announcer]

But look now, Phil. The tough one.

[Philip Marlowe]

What a beach. You look lonely for one.

[Podbean Announcer]

Maybe two beers.

[Philip Marlowe]

Two beers, huh? Any special vintage? Yeah, the kind with suds on top. Goodbye, comic. Okay, okay. No offense.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, what was I. Oh, yeah. I was saying for the tough one. Now, who killed Mrs. Matthew?

[Philip Marlowe]

Mr. Matty, the motive? He had the best motive. He hated his wife. Also Matthews. When I talked to him, he was real vague about his whereabouts lately. And for a clincher, he did know Helen Lofton well enough and long enough to send her a cheap trinket. As in donkey made a glass. Now you impressed?

[Podbean Announcer]

A little. But you're holding back, Molly.

[Philip Marlowe]

I'm what?

[Podbean Announcer]

No, no, not on me, on yourself. Phil. Look, I know you. You don't usually leap at conclusions and over facts. That isn't your style.

[Philip Marlowe]

Trying to tell you Matthew with suds. You know, I told Kelly about that crack you made, mister.

[Podbean Announcer]

And Skip it here. And goodbye again. We're busy.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, I'll say. Too bad we ain't got tablecross. You get to impress me, chum. Writing down big numbers if you tip.

[Podbean Announcer]

Or I'll break your arm.

[Philip Marlowe]

Now look at Phil.

[Podbean Announcer]

Could you be a little bit prejudiced about this guy now, Phil?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, sure, I'm prejudiced. I just don't like Norman Maffey's stuffy kisser. And something else I might as well admit. I keep skipping that guy with a mile high forehead and a boyfriend named Vic Samro because I don't exactly know how he figures in. I'm too impatient to wait around for the answer. Uh oh. What is it, Phil? A game, Lieutenant. Call. Speaking of the devil.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, don't look now.

[Philip Marlowe]

Maybe it's Forehead Matthews. He was in the next booth catching it all. He's at the front door now, see? But he isn't running yet. He's just paying his check. Lieutenant, how about trying that cigarette machine over there while you talk to me like I was still here, huh? Not yet. I'll take the back entrance out to the sidewalk. You'll know if I need help. Matthews underplayed his part neatly, and I got out the back door to the street where I spotted semirow some 50 yards ahead, walking slowly toward an empty car. New green Nash that was parked close to mine. But then suddenly he started running like he had just backed into a blowtorch. Before I knew it, he had piled into his car when I was in mine. And after him the street became that much narrow as a truck the size of a battle wagon lurched out of a side alley without so much as thinking about a full stop. You stupid clown.

[Podbean Announcer]

What was that?

Sonny?

[Philip Marlowe]

You hurt me, muscles.

[Podbean Announcer]

Sonny, you have a nasty touch. You've got a couple of funny ideas about driving. Hold right there, fellow. Read it and weep. A bag? Yeah, and a big letter. Spell police. Now get back in your cab there and wait. We'll chat in a bit.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, yeah, sure. Whatever you say, Officer.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Only this jerk wasn't a Roger.

[Podbean Announcer]

Wasn't my fault. A muller. That still leaves us a big blank to fill in.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, but while we're trying, Lieutenant, do you mind if I drop in on Mr. Mati again? Alone, I mean, I'd like to try pinning the leg of the ducky on him.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right, Phil. But be careful, huh? It's fragile, you know, made of gl.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yes? What?

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, you again.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Do you mind if I come in again, Mr. Mati?

[Podbean Announcer]

Frankly, I do, Marlon. I don't feel very well.

[Philip Marlowe]

Your wife was murdered, Mr. Mati.

[Podbean Announcer]

My wife? Murdered.

[Philip Marlowe]

Still mind if I come in?

[Podbean Announcer]

Where did it happen, Marlon? In San Diego, Marlowe. I asked you where it happened.

[Philip Marlowe]

In Tijuana. Ever been there?

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes, of course.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Marlow.

[Podbean Announcer]

What are you looking for?

[Philip Marlowe]

Just looking. When were you last there, Matthew?

[Podbean Announcer]

I don't know. Maybe a month, six weeks ago.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not Saturday night, huh?

[Podbean Announcer]

No, not Saturday night, Marlo.

What do you mean, Matthew?

[Philip Marlowe]

Ever sent Helen Lofton a present?

[Podbean Announcer]

See here, who do you think you are? And exactly what are you looking for?

[Philip Marlowe]

A wastebasket that isn't empty? You keep a very tidy place, Mr. Maffey.

[Podbean Announcer]

Which has what to do with my wife being dead? Marlow, are you out of your mind?

[Philip Marlowe]

Maybe. But also, maybe not. Maybe I'm real smart. Maybe I've come to the right place to look for an empty package in a piece of wrapping paper that would be addressed to Ms. Helen Lofton in your handwriting and postmarked Tijuana, Mexico.

[Podbean Announcer]

Tijuana.

[Philip Marlowe]

A large piece of wrapping paper in a large package stuffed with excelsior. I was once home to a glass donkey in which you had to get back from Helen Lofton before she got it. Or if you were too late for that killer and then get it back before anyone else knew about it. Does that still leave me out of my mind, Maffy?

[Podbean Announcer]

Absolutely.

[Philip Marlowe]

We'll see after we try the backyard and your incinerator. Wait a minute. You know the law says you can't light it at the 10 in the a.m. maffy, if you're the one stamped guilty, you wouldn't want to arouse suspicion. Stop, Marlowe.

[Podbean Announcer]

This has gone far enough. You're not the police.

[Philip Marlowe]

Which means I don't need any more of a search warrant than this. I caught him right. He plopped to the floor face down like it was made of wet wash. When I rolled him over and was sure that a return engagement was still a long way off, I cut the lights. Then Went through the house and out into the kind of backyard that you had to call a garden. Beyond all the moon bathed beauty and half hidden by a fountain that was backed up by an ivy trestle, was what I wanted. A short, squat, scarred, ugly incinerator. The door was metal, cold, and inside I found more encouragement. None of the paper that was jammed three feet deeper than it burned. I started tossing the stuff out, counting more on the feel and sound of wrapping paper than anything else. Once I stopped short, but it was only a grocery sack. The second time I stopped short, I had a better reason. Marlow, you're wasting your time there. Well, Mr. Victor Samrall.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah.

[Philip Marlowe]

Or as you put it, the guy with the mile high forehead I wouldn't get touchy Samurai. You were swinging the dock ahead, remember? I'm sorry about that, Milo. I didn't know we were both on the same side. Both on the. Take it easy, Victor. You wouldn't try to set me up again, would you? Why the sudden change of heart? Because now I know that you're in the up and up, Marlow. I overheard you talking to that police lieutenant and also the Mexican newspaper man. Well, bully for you, eavesdropper. But also you ran. Why? I was afraid you'd turn me over to that lieutenant. Marlow. Listen, from the start I've been trying to find Helen's killer. That's why I've been following you. I found that glass donkey in her porch and. Well, to get right to the point, Marlow, I can tell you that the one who killed Helen and Mrs. Griffey. The shot that had come from the shadow driveway close into the house spun Semro in a half circle and by the time he corkscrew to the ground, I had my.38 in hand and it covered the distance across the garden. I was too late to do anything except identify the figure I saw take off in a sedan. As Mr. Norman, Matthew was with some help not to Victor Semro. Back in the garden, he had managed to crawl as far as the small pond that surrounded the fountain. There he had died, one hand half submerged in the dark cold water, the other clutching his chest, blood soaked and and discolored another way. I must have stared at it for a full 30 seconds before it suddenly began to add for me, add fast to the only backyard left in the spot where I could get to Matthew and maybe stop a third murder. Lila Hughes place on Beechwood Drive. It was all the push I. When I pulled up away from the place and got out of my car and ran for the back. Only 10 minutes had gone by, and I was glad of it, because standing next to an open, still smoking incinerator, a piece of charred paper in his hand that I knew was the remains of the rapper I'd been after, was Norman Maffey. And opposite him, a gun in her hand, was Lila Hughes, the shy, shy blonde lighter. He.

[Podbean Announcer]

You're crazy. Insane. Well, I saw you shoot Victor Semirov, and you must have killed.

[Lyla Hughes]

Of course it was me, honey. I killed him. I killed Helen. I killed your wife. Well, about her. I'm not sorry. I'd do it again.

[Podbean Announcer]

How could you plan an ugly?

[Lyla Hughes]

I didn't plan anything, darling. I ran into her by accident. Tijuana's a small place. We started sociably. We had a few drinks, a drive to the outskirts in my car, and then talk. Talk of you, darling. I knew I could have you with her out of the way. Helen was no threat. You gave her up. So. So there was no one else to stand between us. And, honey, you hated your wife. What do I love but Nothing. It was all very simple, darling. Helen. Well, Helen was different. You see, I had to kill her. That piece of wrapping paper there that you just snatched from me, the paper I sent Helen a little gift in. That's the reason, Norman. I did have to kill her.

[Podbean Announcer]

And now you do have to kill me, too, don't you, Lila?

[Lyla Hughes]

Oh, no. No, darling. Now the killing's done. I did it all for you, darling. Don't you understand?

[Philip Marlowe]

You devil.

[Podbean Announcer]

You she devil.

[Lyla Hughes]

Norman, dearest, you don't know what you're saying, honey. I tell you, I did all this for you. Remember that, darling.

[Philip Marlowe]

How can he ever forget it? Don't move, Lila. Don't breathe. Drop your gun there at your feet.

[Lyla Hughes]

No. No, I think I'll use it again. Even if you shoot, I'll use it. We belong together, Norman and I.

[Philip Marlowe]

And we're gonna be together.

[Podbean Announcer]

She. She's dead, Marlo. She. She did think she could shoot even if you did, didn't she?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, that's what she thought, all right. Matthew, call the police. They know where they can find me. Hello, Matthews.

[Podbean Announcer]

Phil. Now, where have you been? You know better than to just walk off this for.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah, Matthews, I. I'm sorry, but I'm walking. What do you want to know?

[Podbean Announcer]

The one blank Phil. What sent you over to Lila Hughes place?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, Victor Cimmero. His hand was burned, blistered red.

[Podbean Announcer]

Like you've been fishing around in a hot incinerator, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, that and what he had to say to me about us being on the same track. Riley Hughes was the only other one who was both close enough to Helen to send to that glass donkey and at the same time, even remotely connected with Matthew.

[Podbean Announcer]

Any idea what sent Samra to her backyard?

[Philip Marlowe]

I guess his attack all night was to follow me. When he tried to pick my trail up again after running from the bar, he thought Lila Hughes Place might be the answer. Turned out he was right. Real right.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, he must have seen her around her incinerator, lighting it. And then decided to get to you when he couldn't reach in after the wrapping paper.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, something like that. With, of course, her taking off after him. Look, anything else, Matthews?

[Podbean Announcer]

Phil. You. You weren't in love with Helen Lofton once upon a time, were you?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, no, no, Matthews, I wasn't in love with.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, well, so long, Phil. And look, I. I'm. I'm sorry about Helen. I mean, it's a crying shame.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Good night, Matthews. I'll. I'll come down to headquarters in the. Yeah. A crying shame.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Remember, friends, to make every day more enjoyable, treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. There's lots of cooling, real mint flavor in every step, and chewing Wrigley Spearmint helps keep you feeling fresh and alert. You feel better, work better, get more fun out of doing things. So indoors, outdoors, wherever you go, keep some healthful, refreshing, Wriggly Spearmint Chewing Gum handy. To make every day more enjoyable, treat yourself often to delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum.

[Philip Marlowe]

Foreign.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

The Adventures of Philip Marlo Presented by Wrigley Spearmint Gum. Bring you Raymond Chandler's most famous character and star, Gerald Moore. Philip Marlow is produced and directed by Norman McDonnell and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the transcribed cast were John Stevenson, Michael Ann Barrett, William Lally, Bill Johnstone, Vivi Janis and Vic Parrot. Detective Lieutenant Matthews is played by Larry Dobkin. The special music is composed and conducted by Richard Arant, the makers of Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. Hope you've enjoyed tonight's adventure of Philip Marlowe and that you're enjoying Wrigley's Spearmint Gum every day. We invite you to be with us next week where Philip Marlow says, this.

[Philip Marlowe]

Time it got off to a swashbuckling start at a pirate's cove, a map to a fortune in black pearls ran past a beautiful island girl, a conniving Malayan merchant, and stopped at a wild man from Borneo. Dead in a rusty hulk. All in the quiet outskirts of Los Angeles.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Bob Stevenson speaking. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Podbean Announcer]

RA.