The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Last Wish 07/19/1950

Summary

Podcast Summary: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio – "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Last Wish"

Episode Title: The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Last Wish
Original Air Date: July 19, 1950
Release Date: December 22, 2024
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
Knowledge Cutoff: October 2023

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Introduction

In this enthralling episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, listeners are transported to the golden age of radio with "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Last Wish." Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, the episode features the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe, brilliantly portrayed by Gerald Moore. The narrative, penned by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt, delves into a complex case involving lost letters, deceit, and a race against time to fulfill a dying man's final wish.

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Plot Summary

1. The Call to Action

The story begins in a bustling city airport, where Lieutenant Matthews urgently summons Philip Marlowe:
“He [Jacob Schiller] is around, Matthews. Where around? ... We’ve got 20 minutes before that plane takes off.” (03:01)

Jacob Schiller, an elderly man with a terminal heart condition, expresses his last wish to see his son, Jack Schiller, before departing for Israel. Unable to seek help from the authorities due to Jack's troubled past, Schiller turns to Marlowe for assistance.

2. The Investigation Begins

Marlowe heads to the Sherry Towers on Wilshire Boulevard, an upscale apartment complex, searching for Jack Schiller. Inside, he encounters Peggy Grant, a glamorous vocalist with a murky past intertwined with George Mancini, an unscrupulous music producer.

“Peggy Grant, who sings at the Crown Club, was once in love with and under the personal management of George Mancini...” (11:18)

Marlowe discovers that Mancini is leveraging old love letters between himself and Grant as a basis to claim future earnings, threatening her burgeoning career.

3. Enter Ross Holland

At the Crown Club, Ross Holland, the club owner, approaches Marlowe with a proposition:
“...I have a job I think you might fit.” (13:18)
Holland offers Marlowe an opportunity to work as a double agent, spying for rival factions, with promises of substantial compensation. Marlowe, though intrigued, remains skeptical.

4. The Confrontation

As Marlowe delves deeper, tension escalates. Lieutenant Matthews confronts him violently, believing Marlowe is meddling beyond his capacity:
“I’m cheating.” (12:11)
A dramatic face-off ensues at Peggy Grant's apartment, revealing layers of betrayal and hidden motives. Marlowe uncovers that the letters were actually authored by Ross Holland, not Mancini, exposing a deceitful ploy to entrap Peggy and Marlowe alike.

“These letters were written by Ross Harlan back when Mancini was his partner...” (23:11)

5. The Climax and Resolution

In a final showdown, Marlowe and Matthews confront Jack Schiller and Peggy Grant. As truth surfaces, Jacob Schiller's plane departs, symbolizing the elusive nature of fulfillment and the bittersweet resolution of the case. Marlowe grapples with his entanglement in the web of lies, contemplating his future and moral compass.

“You were right. So you made your point. Now whatever your reason was, get it out of here and leave me alone.” (20:09)

As the plane takes off, Marlowe and Matthews share a moment of uneasy camaraderie, acknowledging the complexities of justice and loyalty.

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Character Insights

• Philip Marlowe (Gerald Moore): Embodies the quintessential hard-boiled detective—intelligent, morally steadfast, yet deeply human. His interactions reveal a man torn between duty and personal ethics.

  “I’ve got to square myself now. And I want to start with the police.” (25:15)

• Lieutenant Matthews: Represents the corruption and pressure within law enforcement. His aggression contrasts sharply with Marlowe's measured demeanor, highlighting institutional flaws.

  “You can’t pull that twice.” (20:33)

• Peggy Grant (June Foray): A multifaceted character caught between love and exploitation. Her transition from singer to pawn underscores the vulnerability of women in the industry.

• Ross Holland (Jack Edwards): The manipulative club owner whose schemes drive much of the plot's tension. His duplicity exposes the darker side of ambition.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Philip Marlowe on Integrity:
   “I never meant anything more in my life. I'm not really a wise guy, honest.” (25:25)

2. Lieutenant Matthews on Deception:
   “All of it. These letters were written by Ross Harlan back when Mancini was his partner.” (23:11)

3. Center of the Conflict:
   “They’re making a clot on the skull.” (20:12)

4. Marlowe's Ethical Stand:
   “I want the guy who dished up this mess. Either that or the whole story down at headquarters.” (19:00)

5. Climactic Revelation:
   “These letters were written by Ross Harlan back when Mancini was his partner...” (23:11)

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Themes and Insights

• Moral Ambiguity: The episode delves into the gray areas of morality, where right and wrong are not always clear-cut. Marlowe's internal conflicts and interactions with Matthews emphasize this complexity.

• The Cost of Loyalty: Characters like Jack Schiller and Peggy Grant illustrate the sacrifices and consequences of misplaced loyalty, both personal and professional.

• Corruption and Power Dynamics: Through Lieutenant Matthews and Ross Holland, the narrative exposes the pervasive influence of power and corruption within societal institutions.

• Identity and Deception: The dual identities and hidden motives of characters drive the plot forward, showcasing the elusive nature of truth.

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Conclusion

"The Last Wish" is a masterful representation of the detective genre, blending suspense, intricate plotting, and rich character development. Philip Marlowe navigates a labyrinth of lies and loyalty, ultimately highlighting the enduring struggle between justice and personal morality. This episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to ponder the deeper ethical dilemmas faced by individuals within a flawed system.

Listeners new to The Adventures of Philip Marlowe will find this episode a compelling introduction to the series' hallmark wit, complexity, and timeless appeal.

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Production Credits:
The Adventures of Philip Marlowe is produced and directed by Norman Macdonald, with a stellar cast including Jack Edwards, June Foray, Larry Dobkin, Harold Direnforth, Jack Crucian, Lynn Allen, and Stan Waxman. The special music is composed and conducted by Richard Arant, adding an immersive layer to the storytelling.

Stay Connected:
Old-time radio enthusiasts can follow Choice Classic Radio on Facebook and subscribe to their YouTube channel for more episodes of classic detective tales and other golden age radio programs.

Sponsor Acknowledgments:
Throughout the episode, sponsorship by Podbean and Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum provides a nostalgic touch, seamlessly integrated into the narrative without detracting from the story.

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Upcoming Episodes:
Listeners are encouraged to tune in next Friday for another thrilling adventure of Philip Marlowe, continuing his quest for truth in the shadowed alleys of classic noir landscapes.

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Final Thought:
As the plane carrying Jacob Schiller ascends into the night sky, Marlowe reflects on the ephemeral nature of wishes and the enduring impact of our choices. This poignant ending encapsulates the essence of the detective's journey—ever searching, ever questioning, and ever striving for a semblance of peace amidst chaos.

Transcript

[Phil Marlowe]

Your message amplified. Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Podbean.

[Phil Marlowe]

Podbean.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Podbean.

[Phil Marlowe]

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

[Dr. Talman]

Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Phil Marlowe]

My school uses Podbean. My church too. I love it. I really do. 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.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

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.

[Phil Marlowe]

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[Dr. Talman]

Here we are, sir. Just coffee still.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Thanks. Kevin.

[Dr. Talman]

Running me, huh? How are you?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

No, honey, just coffee. Nothing else. Oh, wait a minute. Make it another coffee, will you? Sure. Oh, Lieutenant Matthews, over here.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, hi, Phil.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Hi. Sit down. I just ordered some coffee for you.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, that's wonderful, Marlow. Now that the niceties are over. Where is he?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

He's around, Matthews.

[Phil Marlowe]

Where around? Marlow, look, why all the hocus pocus? When you called, you told me to get over the airport here in a hurry.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You said you had him. I do. Also, I've got a story.

[Phil Marlowe]

Well, that can keep till we get to headquarters.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

No, it can't keep, Lieutenant.

[Phil Marlowe]

It's New York. Now loading at gate nine.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

It can't keep any longer than that, Lieutenant.

[Phil Marlowe]

I don't follow you, Marlow. A guy the law wants in a cozy cell in a plane going to New York. Where's the connection?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

That's the story, lieutenant. We got 20 minutes before that plane takes off. Here, have Your coffee.

[Dr. Talman]

Anything else, sir?

[Phil Marlowe]

No. All right, Marlow, let's. But make it snappy.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I can't make it snappy, Matthews. It's not that kind of a story. Not parts of it, anyway.

[Phil Marlowe]

All right, Phil, do it your way.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, it began early this Evening, Lieutenant, about 5:30, when I got a call from a doctor in my neighborhood. A nice elderly guy named Sam Toman once took a bullet out of my shoulder.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, I remember. Yeah.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah. Well, he wanted me to come over to his office right away. Matthews, he was excited, but not for himself. Excited for a patient. An old man who was dying. When I got to his place, the kind of old fashioned doctor's office where the drab horsehair furniture sort of gets mixed up with the shiny new X ray equipment. He. He met me at the front door.

[Jack Schiller]

He's inside with my nurse, Phil, and he's going fast. You've got to be quick. Now, what did I tell you on the phone?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, almost nothing, Doc. Just that he's old.

[Jack Schiller]

Yes. 70, Phil. Maybe more. Anyhow, his name's Schiller, Jacob Schiller. He's a good friend of mine from San Francisco. And he was on his way to Israel, to Tel Aviv. Oh, it was his life ambition. Sit down, Phil.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

He. He's not gonna make it, Doc.

[Jack Schiller]

Not a chance. It's his heart. He had an attack this afternoon. I can't even move him out of here. He's through a little too soon.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

He wanted to go to the new country, is that it?

[Jack Schiller]

Yes. Pioneers measured by his spirit, not his years, he said. Anyhow, Phil, he came down here to see his son, for he caught a plane tonight for New York and the first leg of the trip to Israel. And that's where you come in. I don't know where Jack Schiller is. Jack's his boy's name. But the old man would like to see him once more. It's his last wish. He knows he hasn't much time left.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, why me, Doc? Why not the police?

[Jack Schiller]

Well, I didn't think. I mean, Phil, it.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, the kid doesn't sit so well with the law, huh?

[Jack Schiller]

I'm afraid not. Excuse me.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Sure.

[Jack Schiller]

Dr. Talman.

[Phil Marlowe]

Hello?

[Jack Schiller]

Oh. Oh, yes, Mrs. Caller. Yes. One every three hours, like it says on the bottle. Yes. Goodbye, Mrs. Caller. Where was I, Phil?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Jack Schiller and the law. The reason they don't get along.

[Jack Schiller]

Oh, well, you see, Phil, Jack came down here to LA about three months ago, and as his father's old friend, he looked me up. So we had him over for dinner a couple of times. But pretty soon he started coming less and less. And when he did, it was a different Jack Schiller. Smart, flashy, clothes, a new way of talking. You know, big shot kind of talking. Yeah, I know the police are dumb and there's easy money to be made. That kind of talking. And he never would say what his business was, if he had any. But believe me, Marlow, whatever it was, it wasn't too much on the up and up. And there was some kind of a girl mixed in.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

There always is. What's Jack Schiller look like, Doc? Look like? Yeah.

[Jack Schiller]

Oh, yes. Here, Phil. A picture we took of him when he first came to the house. A barbecue we were having. He's about 30 years old.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Kind of good looking, huh?

[Jack Schiller]

Maybe too good looking, Phil. Maybe that's the trouble. Anyhow, for Jacob's sake, Phil, for my old friend. Do you think you can find him?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, that depends, Doc. What else do you know? Like last address, friend's name, favorite bar. That's the kind of information that counts.

[Jack Schiller]

I was afraid it would be like that, Phil. I never did know his address.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, yeah, but, Doc, there's got to be someplace I can start.

[Jack Schiller]

One thing, Phil.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

What?

[Jack Schiller]

Twice or maybe three times, I saw him going to a fancy apartment house on Wilshire Boulevard, the Sherry Towers.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Sherry Towers?

[Jack Schiller]

I pass it late at night. Coming from the clinic, I didn't bother stopping to call him.

[Phil Marlowe]

I.

[Jack Schiller]

Well, you know, Phil, if he wanted no part of me, I wanted no part of him. And I wouldn't care about him now, either. But for Jacob. Jacob's been a good man, Phil. Always. Phil. We'll try.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, sure, doc, I'll try. Dr. Smiled his tanks without moving his lips, turned and shuffled toward a room behind him. When he opened the door, I caught a glimpse of a lot of cylinders and tubes and gadgets I didn't understand. And something I did understand a little. The almost peaceful face of an almost peaceful old man who was dying. I didn't try to see anymore. There wasn't time to waste. I suddenly wanted to get started in a big hurry. The Sherry Towers on Wilshire was made out of plaster, glass, brick and acute angles. And it was anybody's guess what held it all together. The only person in the plush lobby was a tall man with a red turkey neck who had a toothpick and a cigarette jammed in one corner of his mouth. I walked over to the receptionist.

[Dr. Talman]

Yes, that's right. Mr. Lederman's car at 9. Mr. Kelly's at 9. 30. Washed and gas. That's it, Steve. Goodbye. Oh, yes, sir. Can I help you?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I hope so. I'm looking for Jack Schiller. I'm an old friend of his from out of town. I tried his place and a neighbor said I might find him here.

[Dr. Talman]

The neighbor was right. But you're early. Ms. Grant isn't through at the club until 10 at least.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Ms. Grant? Mm.

[Dr. Talman]

Peggy Grant. She sings at the Crown Club. She's the one who lives here. Didn't the neighbor tell you that too?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, but the way he said it, I thought he was kidding.

[Dr. Talman]

You are from out of town, aren't you?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, Pitchfork Corners. Well, good night, ma'am.

[Dr. Talman]

Good night. Look for you later, Mr. Pitchfork.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, you big city. Slick of you, huh? Yeah.

[Phil Marlowe]

Pardon me for butting in, but I couldn't help overhearing you. I can tell you something about your friend Jack Schiller.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

All right, start telling. Well, let's step outside. I'd rather only you heard it. Oh, sure thing. So you know Jack, do you?

[Phil Marlowe]

Yeah, buddy of mine. That's why I think I ought to tell you.

[Jack Schiller]

It's a bad night.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

For what?

[Phil Marlowe]

For old friends to bother him.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Rube, he's busy.

[Jack Schiller]

Oh.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

A roll of nickels that turkey neck must have clenched in his palm folded me fast. By the time I climbed back onto a pair of wobbly knees, he was across the street into an alley and gone. But I cheered myself up at the thought that it was better this way. After all, with Turkey Night coming out on top, I was only a friend of Schiller's from the Stick, so nobody had to worry about that thought. Helped alright. Helped everything from the blood that trickled out of my mouth right down to the side. I hoped it would stop by the time I got to the Crown Club. Good evening.

[Phil Marlowe]

A table for one, sir?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

No, thanks. I think I'll watch from the bar. Oh, tell me, Captain, does Ross Holland still run this club?

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You're a friend of Mr. Holland? And acquaintance.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, well, in that case, I must insist.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

A table, Henri.

[Phil Marlowe]

Henri.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Table for one vip. Mom.

[Phil Marlowe]

This way, sir.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

The Chantels will be on in a moment. You cannot see as well from the bar. Thanks. I did want to catch her a number.

[Phil Marlowe]

This way, sir.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Sir, there is something wrong? Oh, no. I just changed my mind, Skipper. I think I'll go to the bar. After all. It was Jack Schiller, no doubt about it. At a corner booth just beyond the bar and huddled close to a girl who was almost dressed in something strapless and spangled and who matched the display poster I'd just seen in the lobby labeled Peggy Grant. I ordered a drink at the bar and then walked it over to a celebrity picture gallery on the wall near them and listen to Schiller all smile.

[Phil Marlowe]

And happy end of Mr. George Mancini's squeeze play. And to your letters back, safe and sound in the lily white hands that wrote them. Hey, sweet. You're supposed to drink a toast, not stare it down. Baby. What is it, Jack?

[Dr. Talman]

I. I'm worried. I do want everything to go right. Why? If you don't go, get those letters from Moncini. Everything. I worked so hard, I couldn't catch.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

It all, but it was easy to fit together. Peggy Grant, who was now going up fast as a vocalist, had once been in love with and under the personal management of George Mancini, a preserved in alcohol combination Asian producer, was now going down even faster. And although she had never had a contract with Mancini beyond an oral agreement, her old love letters included enough business Mancini to drag them into court where they could stand up in lieu of a written contract and thus net brother MANCINI the customary 10% of Peggy's earnings. And to say so about future engagements that neither of them.

[Phil Marlowe]

I haven't spent all this time cultivating Mr. Mancini at his lair on top of Sweetser Drive for fun, you know. Believe me, doll, we're in. Honest.

[Dr. Talman]

All right, Jack. If you say so, darling. But will you know the letters?

[Phil Marlowe]

I know love letters. Forget it, angel. I won't even open them. They belong to a long time ago and I'm not interested. Now you go on out there and sing for your supper.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I knew that once Schiller left the club, he was going to be busy. So as they started to tear themselves away from each other, I figured it was the right time for me to step in. What I didn't figure on was Ross Holland, the king of the CR standing at my elbow. Hello, Marlow. Pretty picture, isn't it? Yeah, if you like Angenos with bags under their eyes. I wasn't talking about the one on the wall, Detective.

[Phil Marlowe]

I meant Peggy.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You were staring, remember? I do. Your move, Harlan. Now take the chip off your shoulder, Phil. I don't mind if you stare. She gets paid for it. But you pay. Sure, but also I pay the waiters, the doorman and so on. That. That was all you were doing, wasn't it? I mean, staring, window, shopping. I'd hate to think you were here on business. Oh, sensitive, aren't you? You know, Marlow, I've Piled up. A lot of enemies wrecking in the blue chips. That figures. What are you getting at, Harlan? A job I think you might fit. Oh, let's try the office if you can spare the time. Can you, Phil? Sure, sure. I've got nothing but time. Ross Let. As I trailed Harlan out of the bar as far as an unmarked heavy oak door, I caught a glimpse of Jack Schiller picking up his hat and coat at the entrance. Operation Mancini was underway. I never get these keys straight, Marlow. Round key on top, square one on the bottom. You'd think I'd remember that, huh? Yeah. A switch to a revolving door. Oh, well, I like my privacy. So do my boys. Now, go on in. Make yourself comfortable. I'll get a couple of drinks going. As I moved into the vault Holland called home, one thought alone stood out in my mind. Every second that mine host wasted was a second that old Jacob Schiller couldn't afford to lose. But finally, when I was just about ready to skip playing it close and take off, Holland came to the point his proposition that I go to work for his enemies, play spy and get paid for both parties that I needed. Like a weekend in a leaky submarine. Well, that's it, Marlow. Yes or no? Yes and no, Ross. I'd like to sleep on it. Fair enough. Fair enough. Good night, Phil. Get to bed early, huh?

[Phil Marlowe]

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[Lieutenant Matthews]

Use Podbean to record your podcasts.

[Phil Marlowe]

Use Podbean AI to optimize your podcast.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

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[Phil Marlowe]

Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere. Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

It was all the cue I needed. I bum joked my way out of his office, hurried through the club to the street, then ran for my car and pointed it for the top of Sweetser Drive in the Hollywood Hills and the Schiller George Mancini rendezvous. I couldn't afford to miss the place, which turned out to be. Bilious green walls under a shocking pink roof stood out in that conservative neighborhood like a black panther in a snowbank. There was a car parked nearby and the name on the owner's certificate wrapped around the steering wheel was Jack Schiller, which was no surprise. So when I knocked, I used the barrel of my.38. That was smart of me, but it would have Been smarter if I pointed it the other way. Behind me. Don't move an inch. M. Oh, fine.

[Phil Marlowe]

And drop your gun right where you stand. Go on. Now turn around and answer up real fast. What do you want with George Mancini?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Nothing. It's you. I. Hey, that blood all over you. What happened in there? Shilly? You didn't kill him for those lousy letters in that envelope under your arm, did you? Well, is that it?

[Phil Marlowe]

No, not quite, mister. He isn't dead. What do you know about me? How come you know my name? Cops. Never mind. Just back off. Mr. Fast, open that door. Go on.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I'm cheating.

[Phil Marlowe]

He's screaming. Must have disturbed the neighbors.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Listen, Sheila, I'm working for Dr. Stay.

[Phil Marlowe]

Shut of your wish you had. Now go on, get in there with him or I'll. 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 Marlowe, and tonight's exciting story, the Last Wish.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

It only took one look at the unconscious pulp on the floor inside to tell me that George Mancini had tried hard to hang on to the letter. Almost too hard. I rolled him over. He was as limp as a slice of raw bacon. But still alive. I just got his shirt collar loosened up when the door behind me opened again.

[Phil Marlowe]

Easy. But not Marlow.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Hello, Matthews. Little early for a lieutenant from homicide. How come they sent you? They didn't.

[Phil Marlowe]

Becker and I were driving by when a call came out over the radio. One of the neighbors out here heard something and phoned in. Who is he, Malam?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

A guy named George Mancini. Uh huh.

[Phil Marlowe]

Becca, see what you can do for him.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Okay, Lieutenant. Looks like he soaked up a lot of punishment. He did, but not from me. Matthews. Oh no.

[Phil Marlowe]

What were you? Marlow, Referee.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Who did it? It was over when I got here. And the guy who did it didn't give me much time to talk. He had a gun. All of which still doesn't answer my question. I don't know his name. His occupation is Loving A blonde.

[Phil Marlowe]

Is that why you're here? The blonde?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, more or less. She was afraid of Mancini. He had Some letters. Letters, huh? Which are long gone now, no doubt, no doubt. What's the blonde's name?

[Phil Marlowe]

Hello, Tennant.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Hmm. I think we better have an ambulance. This guy a long ways out. Okay. Take care of it, Becca.

[Phil Marlowe]

Yeah. Okay. Well, Marlow.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Now look, Matthews, nothing's actually happened so far, but this beating, and it's probably well deserved, but the situation's touchy. Girl's worried silly if a name gets mixed up in a thing like this.

[Phil Marlowe]

All right, all right.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Now listen to me.

[Phil Marlowe]

I want the guy who dished up this mess. Either that or the whole story down at headquarters.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Now which? Okay, you'll have him. But just give me a little time alone and I'll deliver him on a platter, I promise. Oh, come on. It means a lot to me, Matthews.

[Phil Marlowe]

Okay, Marlow. Just see this doesn't blow up in your kisser. And don't get lost, Understand?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Outside, after I found my gun, I climbed into my car and headed for Peggy Grant's lush apartment house again. When I got there, I parked away from the place and skirted the front entrance. I was sure that by now the pretty face of the switchboard would be well primed for a tip. Off I went along the side of the building toward the service entrance. At the back, the glow of a match in the shadows in an alcove stopped me. It was the turkey night. Jack Schiller's quick fisted helpmate. Lighting a cigarette, I eased my.38 out and moved toward him. When he finally heard me, he turned. Hey. But by then he was looking right down the muzzle of my gun.

[Phil Marlowe]

Easy now, easy, chum.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Still soul. It's a bad night for seeing old friends, chum.

[Phil Marlowe]

You got me nailed down, brother. You don't have to take my word for nothing. But listen, whatever your angle is, let it rest.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Leave the kid alone for a while.

[Phil Marlowe]

Otherwise you're due for nothing but trouble in large doses.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You're kidding. Yeah, you bet I'm always kidding. You got more nerve than brains, buster. You can't pull that twice. Go fly your ear. They're making a clot on the skull. Almost fun. Hey, wait a minute. Wait a minute. All that stuff spill on the walk there, it fell out of your pocket, didn't it? Didn't it?

[Phil Marlowe]

So what?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

So you don't have to say another word, watchdog. I'm beginning to get the whole thing all by myself. Sure. What's more, you yellow jerk, I don't like it. The two small items I'd just seen on the walk made swinging the flat side of my gun butt against his head a distinct pleasure. They also made getting in the service door and up the stairs two at a time to Peggy Grant's apartment a definite gratification. Because now I had a jim dandy hunch on exactly what to expect. Come on, Princess, open up.

[Dr. Talman]

Who are you? A cop.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Expecting cops, Ms. Grant?

[Dr. Talman]

Not exactly. The milkman doesn't carry a gun, and my friends all use the front door.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I'm the informal type. Where's Jack Schiller?

[Phil Marlowe]

Right behind you, mister.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Again.

[Phil Marlowe]

This time, lay your gun on the table. Go on.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Sure, sure. You're slightly better than the guy downstairs. I got by him with no trouble at all.

[Phil Marlowe]

What's that? What guy?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Why, you mean Peggy didn't tell you about the Watchdog? What is this? Go ahead, Princess, tell him about the turkey neck character with orders to keep everybody away while Jack makes a fool of himself.

[Dr. Talman]

Darling, get this idiot out of here. This is a trick.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Why not also tell him who your real boyfriend is, baby. Why, you lousy.

[Phil Marlowe]

He should have learned a little from what happened to that skunk Mancini. Now go on back to him and tell him if he tries anything else like this, I'll go over him again right from the beginning.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

My, my, aren't we spunky tonight? Now, look, Shelley, I want you to listen, and I haven't got all night. There's a guy downstairs who was sent out to see that nobody interfered while you played perfect pigeon. It was you who risked getting plugged when you went in after those letters, when you were sucker enough not to read. And now it's you who's in a big jam with the police. And what's more, I found out that that guy is one of Ross Harland's boys.

[Dr. Talman]

You liar. Get out of here. Oh, Jack, make him go away, please.

[Phil Marlowe]

Wait a minute. What's Ross Harlan got to do with it?

[Dr. Talman]

Nothing.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Nothing, Holl. Eight, ten to one those letters were written by Harlan, not Dreamboat here. And that they set him up for a squeeze and have nothing whatever to do with their dubious career as a singer. If you got any sense, she'll read one.

[Dr. Talman]

Jack, you gave me your word. Oh, don't be a child, darling. Can't you see what he's trying to do to us?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Just take one look at one signature. Jackson, if I'm wrong, you can split my other lip.

[Dr. Talman]

No, Jack.

[Phil Marlowe]

Don't get the letters, Peggy. At least I'm gonna know who wrote them.

[Dr. Talman]

All right, if that's the way you want it, Jack. That's the way it'll be Jack. Why not move, either one of you? Drop it, Jack. I mean it.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Peggy. What are you doing?

[Dr. Talman]

Drop that gun. Well, mister, you sure wrecked a lovely setup. Why, I don't know, but it won't do you any good. I'm leaving and I'm taking these letters with me.

[Phil Marlowe]

And it's true what he said?

[Dr. Talman]

Of course it's true. All of it. These letters were written by Ross Harlan back when Mancini was his partner. And they're loaded with them. Mancini could cut himself in for half of every cent Ross had. And Ross couldn't trust anyone but me to get them back for him. Stay where you are. Don't feel too bad, Jackie boy. You have to live to learn. Maybe you won't be a dope all your life.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Hey, you better go. Oh, shut up.

[Phil Marlowe]

You were right. So you made your point. Now whatever your reason was, get it out of here and leave me alone.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

No, no. I haven't been monkeying in your corny affairs just for laughs, Sonny. I was hired to find you by Doc Tolman.

[Phil Marlowe]

Doc Tolman? Oh, that nosy old goat.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Why, your father's in town. He's had a heart attack. A bad one.

[Phil Marlowe]

My father?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, he wants to see you. I told Doc Toman I'd bring you back and that's what I'm gonna do. Regardless now.

[Jack Schiller]

Oh, Phil. Come in.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I finally got Jack. Doc. Here he is.

[Phil Marlowe]

Hello, Doctor. Where's my father?

[Jack Schiller]

Back in the bedroom.

[Phil Marlowe]

I'll go right in and see him.

[Jack Schiller]

Jack.

[Phil Marlowe]

What? What is it? What's the matter?

[Jack Schiller]

Jack, your father's dead. He passed away 20 minutes ago.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, I'm sorry, Doc.

[Phil Marlowe]

Dad.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, Pop. Pop.

[Jack Schiller]

Here, my boy. Sit down.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

20 minutes. Just about the time it took to beat a chiseler out of a bunch of letters and argue with a cheap two timing blonde.

[Jack Schiller]

Try to get hold of yourself, my boy. We knew you'd have come if you could have. Your father's last thoughts were of you, son. He was very proud of him.

[Phil Marlowe]

Come. Don't, Doc, please.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

I'll run along, Doc. I got a phone call to make.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, wait a minute, Marlow. You can't leave thinking like you do. Not now with Pop dead. I. I don't know what happened to me these last few weeks. I can't understand how I got in so deep. She had me. I guess I'd have done anything she asked.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You're not the first guy that's happened to. I doubt that you'll be the last.

[Phil Marlowe]

Yeah, but I've got to square myself Now I've got to. And I want to start with the police.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You really mean that?

[Phil Marlowe]

I never meant anything more in my life. I'm not really a wise guy, honest.

[Jack Schiller]

What's this about the police?

[Phil Marlowe]

I'm in a jam, Dr. Tom, and a pretty bad one.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Because you got too much nerve and too much energy. All you need is the right place to spend them. That gives me an idea. Is Jack your real name?

[Phil Marlowe]

No, it's really Jakob, like my old man's.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh. Doc, where's that plane reservation for Jacob Schiller?

[Jack Schiller]

Here. I have it right here.

[Phil Marlowe]

Wait a minute. You mean.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, yeah. You're catching that plane. With luck, you may make it all the way.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, but you're letting me go, Marlow. You'll be in a jam yourself.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, I think I know a pair of strong shoulders I can dump the responsibility onto. Let's go, kid.

[Phil Marlowe]

Flight 17 to New York now loading at gate five.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Well, that's the story to hear, Matthews. Just whose shoulders did you have in.

[Phil Marlowe]

Mind in that responsibility business?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

You're wearing them, you lug. Oh, give me that napkin, will you?

[Phil Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Hey, just tell me something else to.

[Phil Marlowe]

Make it all nice and tight.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

That turkey neck character.

[Phil Marlowe]

How did you know he worked for Ross Harlem?

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, well, when I slugged him in back of Peggy Grant's apartment house, a lot of junk fell out of his pocket, including a pair of keys on a chain. One had a round head, the other one was square.

[Phil Marlowe]

Oh, duplicates of that set that opened Holland's double locked office.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Huh? Huh? Tight enough, Lieutenant? They're tight enough.

[Phil Marlowe]

Last call for Flight 17 to New York, now loading at Gate 5. They just called a New York flight, Bill.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah. Last call. Yeah.

[Phil Marlowe]

You know, I. I hear they're doing.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Great things over there in Israel.

[Phil Marlowe]

Yeah, building farms right out of the.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Desert land, that kind of stuff. That's right. They. They can use all the help they can get. I understand.

[Phil Marlowe]

I was raised on a farm.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Did you know? Keeps you so busy you don't have.

[Phil Marlowe]

Time to get in trouble.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Hey, Malo, sit down.

[Phil Marlowe]

I'll buy you another cup of coffee.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Thanks, Lieutenant. Thanks a. We watched the plane take off swinging heavy thundering grace and head east. I guess we were both thinking the same thing. Two Jacob Schillers were on their way to the fulfillment of a promise. The old and a new promised land.

[Phil Marlowe]

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 stick. 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's Spearmint Chewing Gum. The Adventures of Philip Marlowe Presented by Wrigley Spearmint Gum bring you Raymond Chandler's most famous character and star, Gerald Moore. Philip Marlowe is produced and directed by Norman Macdonald and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the transcribed cast were Jack Edwards, June Foray, Larry Dobkin, Harold Direnforth, Jack Crucian, Lynn Allen and Stan Waxman. 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 next week. Philip Marlow will be heard on Friday evening. So we invite you to be with us next week on Friday when Philip.

[Lieutenant Matthews]

Marlowe says, this time I found an old friend in the morgue, watched a man with a burned hand die in a quiet garden and listened to a pathetic killer give up all because a little glass donkey came to town.

[Phil Marlowe]

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