The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The White Carnation 09/22/1950

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The White Carnation"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
• Episode: The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The White Carnation
• Release Date: February 23, 2025
• Original Air Date: September 22, 1950

---

Introduction

In this thrilling episode of "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe," the iconic hard-boiled detective Philip Marlowe, portrayed by Gerald Moore, delves into a convoluted case involving love, deception, and murder. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles, Marlowe navigates through a web of clues tied to a seemingly straightforward flower shop murder that unravels into a deeper conspiracy.

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Main Plot

Initial Investigation:

The episode begins with a frantic phone call from Ben Reynolds to Philip Marlowe (00:57), Marlowe's best man and friend, expressing fear over a man named Gregory Toledo who Ben believes is resurfacing after being presumed dead. Ben's anxiety centers around tomorrow's impending marriage to Margaret Van de Veer, which he fears may jeopardize his career (02:04).

Upon visiting Ben Reynolds' apartment, Marlowe discovers unsettling evidence: a doctor's kit with blood-soaked gauze and a .38 slug clamped in forceps (04:07). This discovery raises suspicions about Ben's involvement in Gregory Toledo's disappearance (04:09). Marlowe and his partner, Detective Lieutenant Matthews, begin piecing together the puzzle, suspecting that Ben might have been coerced or involved in foul play (02:51).

The Flower Shop Mystery:

The investigation leads Marlowe back to Steiner's Flowers on Temple Street, where Ben Reynolds was last seen acting strangely ("He was white as a sheet" – Podbean Announcer) (02:30). However, upon arrival, they find the shop crawling with law enforcement. The florist, Harlan Steiner, is discovered dead in the back room, with $40,000 in cash missing and a gun nearby (06:33). The presence of candy money suggests a potential robbery gone wrong, but Marlowe senses a more intricate motive (07:01).

Encounter with Ruby Vadena:

While questioning a woman named Ruby Vadena at Sarkeesian's Gypsy Cellar, Marlowe is confronted by contradictory information. Ruby's evasive behavior and her connection to both the murdered florist and the missing money deepen the mystery. Her statements imply a tangled relationship with Steiner and hint at a larger scheme involving illegal activities (10:06).

Unraveling the Toledo Connection:

Marlowe discovers that Gregory Toledo, previously thought dead, has a twin sister, Greta Toledo. This revelation leads him to Ocean City, where he uncovers that Greta and Gregory are intertwined in a sinister plot. The investigation reveals that Dr. Ben Reynolds is, in fact, Gregory Toledo masquerading as a doctor, aiming to cover his unsavory family background tied to crime (17:57, 21:14).

Climactic Confrontation:

The culmination of Marlowe's investigation occurs at an amusement pier haunted by the remnants of a broken carousel. Here, he confronts Greta Toledo and Dr. Reynolds. Greta admits to orchestrating the murder of Harlan Steiner to secure the illicit $40,000 derived from opium sales. Reynolds, under duress, had previously attempted to silence the Toledo brothers to protect his reputation and career (24:23).

Resolution:

With the truth unveiled, Marlowe informs Detective Lieutenant Matthews of the intertwined fates of the Toledos and Dr. Reynolds. The episode concludes with Marlowe reflecting on the night's events, contemplating the complexities of life and death, and preparing for the upcoming wedding that now holds a somber significance (27:52).

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Characters

• Philip Marlowe (Gerald Moore): The quintessential private detective, Marlowe is sharp, perceptive, and unyielding in his pursuit of the truth.

  "I wasn't kidding anybody." (07:19)

• Detective Lieutenant Matthews (Larry Dobkin): Marlowe's counterpart in the police force, Matthews provides assistance but also presents internal conflicts and skepticism.

  "This has all the earmarks. You might wind up needing lilies, not white carnations." (02:12)

• Ben Reynolds / Gregory Toledo (Podbean Announcer): Initially presented as a respected doctor, it's revealed that Ben is Gregory Toledo in disguise, seeking to erase his criminal past.

  "He's really Gregory Toledo, the son of a dope peddler." (24:23)

• Ruby Vadena (Podbean Announcer): A complex femme fatale with ties to both the murdered florist and the missing money, Ruby plays a pivotal role in the unfolding conspiracy.

  "I am. That's why I asked you to meet me here. It's a safe place to talk." (12:02)

• Alex Sarkessian (Georgia Ellis): Proprietor of Sarkeesian's Gypsy Cellar, Alex provides critical information about the Toledos, shedding light on their troubled past.

  "Greta and Gregory Toledo are twins. And the children of John Toledo." (21:14)

• Harlan Steiner (Podbean Announcer): The murdered florist whose death serves as the catalyst for Marlowe's investigation.

---

Investigation and Clues

1. The White Carnation:

   • Ben Reynolds and Marlowe visit Steiner's Flowers to purchase a white carnation, a traditional groom's flower, which becomes symbolic of the ensuing turmoil (00:34).

2. Murder Scene Evidence:

   • Discovery of a .38 slug and blood-soaked gauze in Ben's apartment raises questions about possible self-harm or foul play (04:07).

3. Missing Cash:

   • $40,000 in cash delivered to Steiner's Flowers appears suspicious, hinting at a potential robbery or illegal transaction (06:33).

4. Ruby Vadena's Involvement:

   • Ruby's evasiveness and admission of knowing about Steiner's murder suggest her deep entanglement in the case (08:09).

5. Toledo Twins Revelation:

   • Identification of Greta and Gregory Toledo as twins links them to the criminal activities and Steiner's murder (21:14).

6. Photographic Evidence:

   • A photograph provided by Alex Sarkessian shows Greta in a way that initially deceives Marlowe, delaying the revelation of Gregory's true identity (22:16).

7. Fairyland Graveyard:

   • The eerie setting under the amusement pier serves as the confrontation point where the true motives are unveiled (23:15).

---

Climactic Confrontation and Resolution

In a suspense-filled climax, Marlowe confronts Greta Toledo at the fairyland graveyard, revealing her true intentions. Greta confesses to murdering Harlan Steiner to secure the $40,000 derived from illicit opium sales, intending to eliminate anyone who could expose the truth about Dr. Reynolds' (Gregory Toledo) criminal background. The revelation not only unravels the mystery but also exposes the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets.

"I murdered a man who was double-crossing me trying to take this $40,000 here." (24:39)

With the case closed, Marlowe reflects on the intricate nature of human relationships and the often-blurred lines between right and wrong.

---

Notable Quotes

• Philip Marlowe:

  "Crime is a sucker's road. And those who travel it wind up in the gutter, the prison, or the grave." (00:34)

• Detective Lieutenant Matthews:

  "It's a neat case, but there's always something more." (Not directly quoted but implied through dialogue)

• Ruby Vadena:

  "You're really on my hook, brother. I got a big news flash for you." (24:25)

• Alex Sarkessian:

  "We got it from a sale of opium. He was trying to take this money and run with it in a gypsy lady life." (24:39)

---

Conclusion

"The White Carnation" masterfully weaves a tale of deception, love, and betrayal, showcasing Philip Marlowe's relentless pursuit of justice. Through a series of intricate clues and character interactions, Marlowe unearths a tangled web that exposes the dark underbelly of human ambition and desperation. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of old-time radio detective stories, captivating audiences with its nuanced storytelling and memorable characters.

---

Additional Information:

At the episode's conclusion, listeners are treated to promotional segments featuring the cast and production team, including acknowledgments of contributions by Paul Dubov, Virginia Gregg, Fritz Feld, Georgia Ellis, Tom Tully, Parley Bear, and John Dana. The special music composed by Richard Arant enhances the atmospheric tension throughout the narrative.

"The adventures of Philip Marlow bring you Raymond Chandler's most famous character. Star Gerald Moore are produced and directed by Norman Macdonald and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt." (28:34)

Listeners are encouraged to tune in next week for more adventures, ensuring the legacy of Philip Marlowe continues to enthrall old-time radio aficionados.

Transcript

[Podbean Announcer]

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[Casey]

Podbean.

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[Casey]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

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[Casey]

My school uses Podbean. My church too.

[Podbean Announcer]

I love it. I really do.

[Casey]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows. Like us on Facebook.

[Podbean Announcer]

Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank.

[Casey]

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 gutter, the prison or the grave. There's no other end. But they never learn.

[Philip Marlowe]

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

[Podbean Announcer]

I can't understand it. Ben Reynolds is a wonderful guy with a really great future. Intelligent, handsome. Well, well, you've seen his picture.

[Casey]

Yeah, yeah. You said he's a doctor, didn't you? Casey and M.D.

[Podbean Announcer]

That'S right. He's already known as one of the best young medical men in town. Turn left at the next corner, Marlow.

[Casey]

Okay. You also said he's be married soon?

[Podbean Announcer]

Soon. Tomorrow. Enter the swellest girl in the world, Margaret Van de Veer.

[Casey]

Van Derveer. As in Beverly Hills, huh?

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes. You know them?

[Casey]

Oh, just the name.

[Podbean Announcer]

Marlo. We've got to locate Ben Reynolds fast and find out what' well, you're sure.

[Casey]

It'S not just a last minute case of cold feet?

[Podbean Announcer]

Cold feet?

[Casey]

Oh, Marlow.

[Podbean Announcer]

He's in love with the girl. I'm his best man. I know. Besides, this marriage means a lot to the guy's career. He wouldn't run out.

[Casey]

It happens, Casey.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, not to Ben. Why, he was fine, happy, full of laughs right up to the minute we went into that flower shop.

[Casey]

Flower shop?

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, some small place called Steiner's Flowers on Temple Street. Ben and I were driving along there this afternoon when I remember the one thing I'd overlooked was a white carnation for the groom. We stopped and went in.

[Casey]

Then came the switch.

[Podbean Announcer]

I'll say. So while I talked to the florist. Then all at once, he grabbed me by the arm and said, let's get out of here. He was white as a sheet. We left in a hurry. And all the way up here to his Place. He kept looking back like he was afraid of being followed.

[Casey]

What'd he say about it?

[Podbean Announcer]

He wouldn't tell me a thing. When we got to his apartment, he gave me a real brush off. I went on home. Then at 7 tonight, I got a call from him.

[Casey]

Give me that call word for word, if you can, Casey.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, he said, tom, listen to me. There's a man named Gregory Toledo. I thought he was dead, but he's come back to life. I can't go on until he's dead again. Please don't interfere or say anything. You'll hear from me. Then he hung up.

[Casey]

Gregory Toledo, huh? Was Ben at home then?

[Podbean Announcer]

No. No. I tried to call him back, got no answer. I thought it over for a while, then called. You see, I'm not only his best man, I. I'm his best friend too. That's his place there.

[Casey]

Okay, kid, I think you've done right so far, but brace yourself.

[Podbean Announcer]

For what?

[Casey]

For something ugly. This has all the earmarks. You might wind up needing lilies, not white carnations. Let's go. The apartment was ground floor rear and dark inside. From walnut paneling to the sweet, nutty smell of good pipe tobacco. Dr. Ben Reynolds. Place was neat, clean and cozy until we got to the kitchen. There the air was thick with a strong disinfectant. A doctor's kit was open on the sink beside it was a heap of blood soaked gauze topped by a pair of forceps. And still clamped in the chromium jaws was what looked like a.38 slug.

[Podbean Announcer]

He must have performed this just before he left.

[Casey]

Yeah, possibly on himself. This bottle of hundred proof bourbon here is the anesthetic of you.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hey, Marlowe, the cigarette case here. I've never seen that here before. Marlo, look.

[Casey]

What?

[Podbean Announcer]

The name on this thing.

[Casey]

Toledo.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, as in Gregory Toledo. He was here.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Marlow.

[Casey]

Yeah, but now two plus two doesn't quite make four. Look, you say Ben told you on the phone that he couldn't go on until Gregory Toledo was dead. Yet apparently.

[Podbean Announcer]

Apparently Ben pulled a bullet out of that Toledo guy. Right here in this kitchen? Is that what you're thinking?

[Casey]

Yeah, that's what I'm thinking. Let's check the other rooms again, huh? See if we can get a lead on where he went.

[Podbean Announcer]

Right. I'll look in the bedroom.

[Casey]

All right. I'll start on the desk. See if his clothes are still there, will you?

[Podbean Announcer]

Everything seems okay in here.

[Casey]

Good. Say, Casey, did Ben like Armenian or Hungarian food a lot?

[Podbean Announcer]

No, not that I know of. Why?

[Casey]

Well, because his phone book is open to restaurants and every one of that kind is checked off. Even the Gypsy Tea Rooms.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, that's funny. He never went to those places. What's it mean?

[Casey]

Nothing, maybe. Let's see, he got through them as far as Sarkeesian's Gypsy Cellar, 3rd Street. Ring any bell?

[Podbean Announcer]

Not a one. What are we gonna do, Marlowe?

[Casey]

You're gonna go home and get some rest.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, we've gotta find him.

[Casey]

That's what you hired me for, isn't it? I'll call you when I've got something.

[Podbean Announcer]

Where you going now?

[Casey]

Steiner's flower shop. See what else he stocks beside white carnations. I'll call you, Casey. I unsnapped the front door lock, went out to my car and drove down Temple street almost to Alvarado. I still had a block to go when I saw the red spotlights on a pair of prowl cars parked up ahead. It was too close to be coincidence. The little store marked Steiner's Flowers was crawling with law. I pushed through the whispering circle of morbidly curious keeping a respectful distance outside and went up to the door there. Detective Lieutenant Matthews spotted me and motioned me in.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hey, Marlow. What brings you here?

[Casey]

Business stop for a bachelor button?

[Podbean Announcer]

Uh huh. Well, you're a bit late. The joint's closed. Proprietor's been murdered, or so I think.

[Casey]

You think? Can't you tell?

[Podbean Announcer]

All right, let's put it this way. He's dead under suspicious circumstances.

[Casey]

That's one way of putting it.

[Podbean Announcer]

You know, there's not a mark on him. Nothing. Here, take a look. The back room.

[Casey]

All right.

[Podbean Announcer]

There you. That's him. One Harlan Steiner. There was a gun beside him on the floor. Been fired once very recently.

[Casey]

What caliber? Matthews. Oh,38.

[Podbean Announcer]

And no bullet holes in here, so he might have scored. Hey, why?

[Casey]

Just curious. Wait a minute. What's this?

[Podbean Announcer]

Motive, maybe. List of currency denominations and amounts sent over from his bank. And data today adds up to $40,000.

[Casey]

Hey, that guy had 40,000 bucks cash delivered here.

[Podbean Announcer]

That's right.

[Casey]

I didn't realize a small flower business could be that good, even on a big day.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, at your age it can't. And there's no sign of that cash around now.

[Casey]

Well, maybe he was robbed.

[Podbean Announcer]

Mm, by a handsome, well dressed guy. Was seen running out of here earlier tonight. Bill Steiner. Probably died of heart failure from the excitement. So that's that. But why did he have so much dough brought in here in the first place? And how did this get here in the back room?

[Casey]

What? Oh, cigarette with lipstick. Well, Matthews, even Flora's a human, you know.

[Podbean Announcer]

So are cops.

[Casey]

I've heard. Yeah.

[Podbean Announcer]

Now give me a straight answer, Phil, huh? Of all the places in town, how come you show up here this dumpy, out of the way flower shop?

[Casey]

I was driving by on my way home, Saw your car, so I stopped. Easy as that.

[Podbean Announcer]

Could have done that. Well, all by myself. Mooney. Yeah, you can have it now. Tell him at the morgue I want a fast job. We've seen all we can here.

[Casey]

All except that at the front door. Matthews, get a load of it. Maybe she's your lipstick.

[Ruby Vadena]

Steiner Here now.

[Podbean Announcer]

Are you a friend of Steiner's, miss?

[Ruby Vadena]

Not exactly, sir. Sometimes buy flowers from him.

[Podbean Announcer]

I see. Were you in here earlier today?

[Ruby Vadena]

No, I haven't been here for several days. What's wrong?

[Podbean Announcer]

You'll find out soon enough, miss. Better move along now. Go on.

[Ruby Vadena]

Yeah, you're okay.

[Casey]

No, she's too dark. Your lipstick's off. A blonde.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes, I know.

[Casey]

Well, I guess I'll shove off, too. Take it easy, Lieutenant. Hey, Phil. What?

[Podbean Announcer]

Look, if you should happen to stumble over 40 grand on your way home, get in touch, will you?

[Casey]

Don't I always? Good night, Matthews. I drove down Alvarado to 3rd street and turned right. In a few minutes, I was parked in front of a gaudy doorway at the foot of a half a dozen steps, dimly lit by a rusty hanging lantern. Under a sign said Sarkeesian's Gypsy Seller. Armenian dishes, our specialty. Alex Sarkessian, proprietor. Inside, the place was a stone floor, imitation oak booths, all empty. The five feet high that hustle taught me. Out of a dark corner was Sarkessian himself. The welcome smile dribbled off his face like spilled beer. When I said all I wanted was some information.

[Alex Sarkessian]

Why you come here for it, huh? What kind of information do you want on some people?

[Casey]

Mr. Sarcassian, do you know a man named Gregory Toledo? No. Well, how about Reynolds? Ben Reynolds?

[Alex Sarkessian]

No.

[Casey]

Okay, try. Never mind. That girl on the billboard there, who's she?

[Alex Sarkessian]

Madame Vadena. Just like it says. She's on the billboard.

[Casey]

What's her real name?

[Alex Sarkessian]

Ruby Vadena. She works here. Works? If somebody wants to call looking at tea leaves in a cup work, but the customer expects it. The customer is always right. So Ruby Vadina works here, but not tonight.

[Casey]

All right. Where can I find her? Why? Because I saw her a few minutes ago in a certain flower shop.

[Alex Sarkessian]

Oh, that's a very good reason. Now, look, mister, I run a restaurant, not a lonely heart.

[Casey]

You look suck Cassie and Your little gypsies in a murder right up to her big brass earrings. I gotta talk to her right now.

[Alex Sarkessian]

A murderer. I knew it. That fake. Oh, that.

[Casey]

No good.

[Alex Sarkessian]

She ruins my business. What kind of appetite can murder give anybody?

[Casey]

I ask you. I ask you for the last time, where does Ruby live?

[Alex Sarkessian]

Villa Garibaldi, on the end of Repose Street.

[Casey]

Thanks.

[Alex Sarkessian]

When you find her, tell Sarkassian says she's fired. She don't come in my place again, you hear? She's washed.

[Casey]

Reposa street turned out to be a narrow block, long tunnel under dark matted cypress trees, at the end of which Villa Garibaldi squatted like an ancient yellow toad, two stories high. I'd gone far enough in my headlights to pick up the clutter on the stairs when Ruby herself stepped out from the trees and headed for the front door. She had enough head start that she was upstairs and at the door before I caught her.

[Ruby Vadena]

Leave me alone. I haven't done anything. Copper. Leave me be.

[Casey]

I'm no cop. Ruby.

[Ruby Vadena]

Oh, no. Lisa and I saw you at the flower shop. You're not kidding anybody.

[Casey]

This your door here?

[Ruby Vadena]

Maybe. But you can't get in there without a war and copper. So keep it out here and keep it short. What do you want?

[Casey]

Who is Gregory Toledo?

[Ruby Vadena]

I don't know.

[Casey]

All right, let's try an easier one. What was that florist Holland Steiner to you?

[Ruby Vadena]

If you're not a cop, what do you care?

[Casey]

I'm a private detective, honey, and I care plenty. You know what happened to him, don't you?

[Ruby Vadena]

I think he's dead, if that's what you mean. He was just a friend, that's all.

[Casey]

Oh, no, no. You're not the type of just friends, Doc, I. Hey, wait a minute, sugar. Somebody's in your room.

[Ruby Vadena]

The money.

[Casey]

Open the door. Hurry up, will you? Well, come on. Come on. Get out of my way. Reynolds. Ben. Stop.

[Alex Sarkessian]

Stay back, you.

[Casey]

For an instant, I'd seen Ben Reynolds, his face twisted in fear, a package wrapped in green oil paper clenched in one hand. Then he grabbed up the only lamp and smashed it at me. In the dark, I heard him run through the kitchen and out the back door. By the time I got outside, he was gone. I started for my car to follow him but stopped again at the sudden sight of a gun barrel shoved out from the shadows between two trees and pointed straight at me.

[Greta Toledo]

Don't move, fella. Not one inch or I'll kill you.

[Casey]

You sound like you mean it.

[Greta Toledo]

I do. You're not going any farther, fella. Don't try. And whoever you are, forget about the green package. You'll live longer.

[Casey]

Yeah, I'll take your word for it. Just tell me one thing, baby. Are you and the doctor a team?

[Greta Toledo]

That all depends. Now go on back the way you came. I've got an appointment with the doc, and I wouldn't want to keep him waiting. Start walking.

[Philip Marlowe]

In just a moment, the second act of Philip Marlow. But first, with the outbreak of conflict in the Far East, CAIR's stockpile in South Korea has fallen into the hands of the invaders. But orders are being accepted so that the moment the conflict ceases, CAIR will be able to move in with badly needed food and clothing for the distressed men and women of Korea. By cooperating with CAE today, you can help bring hope to Korea tomorrow. Now with our star, Gerald Moore, the second act of Philip Marlow, and tonight's story, the white carnation.

[Casey]

When the lady in the dark left for appointment with the doctor, I knew that my next move should be a tight huddle with the good gray heads at Homicide. But I also knew that first there was the matter of Ruby Vadena. I could tell by the way she was coming for me. The kind of enthusiasm you see only at feeding time at the zoo.

[Ruby Vadena]

Where is it? The money? Where did it go?

[Casey]

How do I know? You're the fortune teller. Now, what'll it be? Cards? Teacup? Crystal balls? Or should we just try some plain old fashioned conversation, Ruby? Huh?

[Ruby Vadena]

Now, about what?

[Casey]

Well, for one thing, 40,000 bucks. It won't sit still. For another, your connection with Steiner's murder. The law is just itching to hear about that one.

[Ruby Vadena]

Not the police. I don't want to tangle with them again.

[Casey]

I mean, could be embarrassing. Talking over the good old days, Ruby. Is that it?

[Podbean Announcer]

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[Casey]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Podbean Announcer]

Use Podbean to record your podcast. Use PodBean AI to optimize your podcast. Use PodBean AI to turn your blog into a podcast. Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere. Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Ruby Vadena]

What do you want to know?

[Casey]

You and steiner and the 40,000. What's the story?

[Ruby Vadena]

Steiner and I were supposed to go away together to be married. He loved me.

[Casey]

You love the 40 grand? Go on.

[Ruby Vadena]

The money came from the sale of his flower shop. He brought it over here tonight. Said he'd be back. When he didn't show up, I went to find him. That's all I knew.

[Casey]

Not enough Ruby. That shop wouldn't bring 40,000 bucks like you could pass for a school. Mom, where do you get the money?

[Ruby Vadena]

I. I haven't the slightest idea. But I do have a suggestion.

[Casey]

Oh?

[Ruby Vadena]

If you can get your hands on the money, which is really mine now, I'll split it with you.

[Casey]

And we could even take a long, long trip, huh? No dice, baby. I wouldn't sleep nights worrying about my traveler's checks. So long, clairvoyant. When I left the piano shawl beauty with a dollar sign hot, I stopped at a mobile gas station, and while they filled my tank, I made a call back to the flower shop. Learned that Detective Lieutenant Matthews had gone down to the morgue. But 20 minutes later, when I was there, I was still a step behind because Matthews had since gone on to headquarters. However, I was also a step ahead. They had just learned Wise Steiner had died. Connor, the attendant, was pleased as punch to tell me all about it.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Hey, see, Marlo, right here. The back of the neck got slapped with a hypodermic needle hold no bigger than a mosquito bite. Real hard to find.

[Casey]

And it was an injection that killed him, Connor, huh? Some kind of poison.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

We'll have it tagged in a couple hours. Want me to let you know what it is?

[Casey]

No, no, never mind. I'll be in touch with Lieutenant Matthews anyway. By the way, kind of mind if I use your phone?

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Why should I? They don't send me the bill over on the wall there.

[Casey]

Thanks.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

But, Marlow, no long distance, huh?

[Casey]

Oh, no, no. Downtown, Connor, not another inch.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Hey, Case, help yourself. You know, Marlow, one night some news Hawk got on the tube here and talked to his girl in long beach for 40 minutes. It was two weeks later we found out it was Long Beach, Long island, not Long Beach, California.

[Podbean Announcer]

I'm assigned. Lieutenant Matthews.

[Casey]

Marlo Matthews. I'm down at the morgue.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, what is it, Marlow? Steiner? Or are you still just a wayfaring stranger?

[Casey]

No, it's Steiner. Look, Matthews, I found out a couple of things that might help.

[Podbean Announcer]

I figured you would. Who is it, Mullo?

[Casey]

Well, so far it could be a Dr. Reynolds, but there's more to it.

[Podbean Announcer]

There always is. Wait there, Phil. I'll be over.

[Casey]

Okay, but one thing first, Matthews. Does the name Gregory Toledo is in Ohio mean anything to you?

[Podbean Announcer]

Off and no. Why? What? Does it fit in?

[Casey]

Yeah, well, I'm not sure. When I started, Dr. Reynolds was out to kill Toledo again. It seems he's come back to life.

[Podbean Announcer]

Come back to what? Sounded like you said I did.

[Casey]

I did? Yeah. Well, we'll talk about it when you get here. So long, Matthews.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Hey, pardon me for button in, Mr. Marlow, but that's kind of funny what you said, I mean. Why, it was the name you threw at Matthews. Toledo. You see, I. No, no, it couldn't count.

[Casey]

Well, wait a minute, wait a minute, Connor. What's funny about the name Toledo? Come on, it can count plenty.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, it's just a coincidence, that's all.

[Casey]

That can be enough. Let's have it.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Okay, Marlow. About six or seven years ago, we had a dead one in here named Toledo. Yeah, the front part, I don't recall. But it wasn't that Gregory. Anyhow, the cops shot him full of holes for resisting arrest.

[Casey]

What's the kind of funny part?

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Oh, not much, Marlowe. Only you just tied somebody named Toledo to this Steiner here who was killed with a hypo.

[Casey]

And.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

And the Toledo bird I'm talking about was a dope peddler. Dope peddlers, Marlo, are sometimes real handy with hypo needles. Nothing, huh?

[Casey]

No, not unless it fits tighter. Hey, look, Connie, you keep files here, don't you?

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah.

[Casey]

You could get me an address on the Toledo you're talking about a first name next to kin, so on, couldn't you?

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Sure I could. What's more, I'd be glad to Marlo. Why, if this meant something, it'd be.

[Casey]

Yeah, well, let's get to the files. Yeah, sure, sure. This way.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Morgue attendant cracks keys Right over here.

[Casey]

Here we are.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Bias to Laco.

[Casey]

Toledo.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Toledo. Yeah, yeah, Toledo. Here it is.

[Casey]

Let me see that. Toledo, John Edward. August 18, 1943. Shot to death by police officers. Celestes and Hogan. Badge, resisting arrest. Address? 31 Juniper Place, Ocean City, California. Next of Kent.

[Albert A. Keyline]

Holy smoke.

[Casey]

Gregory Toledo, A son. Connor, you're a genius. Now do one more thing for me, will you, please? Yeah, sure. When Lieutenant Matthews gets here, tell him I'm sorry to stand him up but that if I'm real lucky, he won't be mad at all.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Yeah, but Marlow, this address at Ocean City. Seven years old.

[Casey]

I know, Connor. That's why I said real lucky. I'll see you. The gentleman who answered the door at 31 Junible Place was about 60 or a spotted torn bathrobe that read like a menu and needed a shave, a haircut. And peeping through his torn slippers I saw a blue jay corn plaster. However his spirit was bright. Seems he liked having visitors.

[Albert A. Keyline]

Yes, sir.

[Casey]

You're the manager?

[Albert A. Keyline]

Oh, I am indeed. Have been for 18 years. Albert A. Keyline. You were looking for a room, sir?

[Casey]

No, just some information, Mr. Keeline. My name's Marlow. I'm a private detective. And I.

[Albert A. Keyline]

A private detective? Well, come right in, sir. My goodness. Don't often get to chat with a man in your profession. Welcome the opportunity. I usually keep the living room closed, except on Sunday. But tonight I think we can forget that regulation. Yeah, well, look, the Morris chair there is the best one. Make yourself comfortable.

[Casey]

Thank you. Mr. Keyline, did you know John Toledo to lead?

[Albert A. Keyline]

I most certainly did. He stayed here for five years. I'm unhappy to inform you. He was killed on my front lawn there in 1943. It was good riddance to be.

[Casey]

Oh.

[Albert A. Keyline]

Oh, I see why you're here, Mr. Marlowe. But frankly, I expected the police, not a private detective.

[Casey]

Why should you expect the police?

[Albert A. Keyline]

Because not two hours ago, Emma Mallory, my neighbor, saw Greta Toledo over at the amusement pier.

[Casey]

Greta Toledo? You mean Gregory Toledo, don't you?

[Albert A. Keyline]

I don't think so. I would have said Gregory if I meant Gregory.

[Casey]

Oh, I don't doubt that for a minute.

[Albert A. Keyline]

Besides, that boy would know better than to come back to Ocean City. It's done him enough harm. I said Greta Toledo, John Toledo's daughter. Gregory's twin.

[Casey]

Twin? Wait a minute, Mr. Keyline, this is important. Greta and Gregory Toledo are twins. And the children of John Toledo?

[Albert A. Keyline]

That's right, sir. All three lived here for five years, like I said. And a more different brother and sister you never heard of.

[Casey]

Well, different like what?

[Albert A. Keyline]

Like heaven above.

[Podbean Announcer]

Careful.

[Albert A. Keyline]

That other place below. That's what the boy was fine. The girl a terror. At 13, she was tormenting alley cast. And at 18 when she left here, she was a brazen hussy. Both went their separate ways from here a week after John was buried.

[Casey]

You haven't seen him since?

[Albert A. Keyline]

No. Except one night about a month later when the boy Gregory came here to visit me and ask for all the pictures I had of him and his father and sister. I used to be an amateur photographer, you know.

[Casey]

I got a picture of pictures, Mr. Keyline. Why did he want them?

[Albert A. Keyline]

Sentiment, I guess. He was kind of soft hearted. I gave him the whole batch except one of Greta. And I only saved it because the lighting was so good. I've got it right here. I took it a couple of weeks before they got John.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

Look, look.

[Albert A. Keyline]

See how the sunlight behind her head gives a soft feeling to the Whole.

[Casey]

Picture, it's practically a halo.

[Albert A. Keyline]

Yes, sir. Very professional. I'll just take that now, Mr. Marlow. I might try and improve it someday.

[Casey]

Yeah, the best of luck. Keyline, don't move your finger.

[Albert A. Keyline]

My finger? Why not? Mr. Marlow, are you sure you feel all right?

[Casey]

Frankly, no. But I hope they get better as I go along. Listen, Keyline, that neighbor of yours, that Emma, who said she saw Greta Toledo at the amusement pier, was it the big one off the foot of Surf Street?

[Albert A. Keyline]

Oh, it sure was. Emma saw her go behind one of the concessions and take a flight of stairs down to the beach.

[Casey]

Which flight of stairs? There's a half a dozen of them. Keyline, think, will you?

[Albert A. Keyline]

You don't have to. I know, because Emma said it was the flight by the cotton candy concession. You know, that fuzzy stuff. And he's near the merry go round. I'm sure of that because Emma mentioned the merry go round. She never leaves out any details. You know, Emma's a thorough.

[Casey]

The steps that led down from the cotton candy concession took me to a fairyland graveyard under the amusement pier. Dead carousel animals, horses, sea serpents, dragons that smiled. All broken and bent and piled any side up. Some rusted brown, some of the bilious green discolor of old brass. Then a lot of steel and stone. Dwarves who must have belonged to some long ago winter wonderland. Also broken and rusted. But beyond that, the people were real, Both of them. One was Greta Toledo. She was the same lady in the dark who had stopped me outside of the gypsy's place. The other was the man I had started out to find. The man who was out to re kill Gregory Toledo. Dr. Ben Reynolds.

[Greta Toledo]

Wait a minute, Gregory. One thing we still have to talk about. Or should I call you Dr. Reynolds?

[Podbean Announcer]

All right, get to the point, Greta.

[Greta Toledo]

I am. That's why I asked you to meet me here. It's a safe place to talk.

[Podbean Announcer]

What did I talk about? You were shot and I gave you medical attention. You demanded that I get $40,000 that was yours. And I did.

[Greta Toledo]

You did, hero. But only to keep me from letting everyone know that the fine Doc Reynolds is really Gregory Toledo, the son of a dope peddler.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right, sister mine, what do you want?

[Greta Toledo]

Just this. You're really on my hook, brother. I got a big news flash for you. I wasn't shot in self defense tonight. It was while I was committing a murder and a flower shot some filth named Harlan Steiner.

[Podbean Announcer]

What?

[Greta Toledo]

Yeah, a murder with a hypodermic needle. I murdered a man who was Double crossing me trying to take this $40,000 here. We got it from a sale of opium. He was trying to take this money and run with it in a gypsy lady life.

[Podbean Announcer]

Listen, listen. How tight do you think you can squeeze me? There's an end to everything, even blackmail. Don't you see that? I'd be much worse off as a murder accomplice and exposed as a doctor with a very unsavory family background. Also, Greta, I've got a few moral compunctions. A doctor's supposed to save lives, not destroy them.

[Greta Toledo]

Then see what you can do about yours, Doctor.

[Casey]

Don't try it, Greta. Lousy AIM assistant.

[Detective Lieutenant Matthews]

She's dead.

[Casey]

Yeah, and so is Gregory Toledo. Finally. We better get to the police. Dr. Reynolds.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, Marlow, you stepped out of turn all right, but you happened to step in the right direction. How? I still don't know. Yes, that picture Keyline showed you out in Ocean City. Mr. Marlow. It was Greta, wasn't it?

[Casey]

Yeah, it was. Oh, this coffee's hot. Didn't mean a thing, though, Tom. I'd only seen Greta in the dark at the Gypsies.

[Podbean Announcer]

And then how did it help? More coffee here, please. Coffee?

[Ruby Vadena]

Oh, sure.

[Casey]

Well, it helped, actually, when Key Line added his finger that covered the girl's hair. When I could only see the face.

[Podbean Announcer]

It looked like a man. And you saw not Greta, but her twin brother Gregory, you knew as Dr. Reynolds from a picture you'd seen earlier. Good work, Marlow.

[Casey]

No, no. Good luck, Matthews. There was Connor in the morgue, Gabby woman named Emma Mallory, Keyline's hobby as a photographer. And, oh, lots of little things.

[Podbean Announcer]

Pardon me, Lieutenant, I. I don't quite know how to say this, but what about the publicity, the newspapers and what it'll do to. Well, Dr. Reynolds being Gregory Toledo. Dr. Reynolds being who? Hey, miss, I'd like that coffee tonight.

[Casey]

You know, I always did like you, Matthews. Good night fell when I got outside. It was pushing 4 o'clock in the morning and I was tired of a long night that had been crowded with a lot of death and a lot of people. But I was also looking forward to a lot of life, Good Life with Dr. Ben Reynolds and his bride. So thinking about them, I drove slowly through the quiet city streets until the black melting into gray in the corners of the sky. Said it was almost tomorrow. And then I went home, found a telegram. It was from the groom, Tom Casey.

[Podbean Announcer]

And the bride to be joined me in saying that there's no doubt as to who the best man really is. Please do us the honor tomorrow at 5:00 sharp.

[Casey]

Ah, that's nice. Now all I need is one white carnation. And I wonder where that gypsy girl is.

[Philip Marlowe]

The adventures of Philip Marlow bringing you Raymond Chandler's most famous character. Star Gerald Moore are produced and directed by Norman Macdonald and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the cast were Paul Dubov, Virginia Gregg, Fritz Feld, Georgia Ellis, Tom Tully, Parley Bear and John Dana. Detective Lieutenant Matthews is played by Larry Dobkin. This special music is composed and conducted by Richard Arant. Be sure and be with us again next week when Philip Marlow says this.

[Casey]

Time a skid row suicide changed into murder. A cobbler with an accent was afraid to call the police and a hard boiled Hollywood agent broke into tears. All because one woman kept her whole life between the covers of a big leather book.

[Philip Marlowe]

There's a very charming, very amusing young couple to be found at CBS the Stars address every Saturday evening. They're Liz and George Cooper. And Liz is played by the glamorous Hollywood comedienne Lucille Ball. It's wonderfully hilarious. It's comedy at its best. My Favorite Husband starring Lucille Ball every Saturday night on most of these same CBS stations.

[Casey]

T H E S T A R S A D D R E S S I S C B S the star's address is cbs.

[Philip Marlowe]

This is Roy Rowan speaking. This is cbs where you dance to music of Bourne Monroe Saturday nights. The Columbia Broadcasting System.