The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Betrayal in Bumpus Hell Caper 01/16/1949

Summary

The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Betrayal in Bumpus Hell Caper – Detailed Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
• Episode: The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Betrayal in Bumpus Hell Caper 01/16/1949
• Release Date: January 4, 2025

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Overview

In this riveting episode of The Adventures of Sam Spade, Detective Sam Spade navigates the treacherous underbelly of Bumpus Hell, a seemingly quiet hamlet in California. The narrative weaves a complex tale of betrayal, blackmail, and cunning detective work, showcasing Sam Spade's unparalleled prowess in unraveling intricate mysteries. As the Golden Age of Radio presents another enthralling detective story, listeners are treated to sharp dialogues, unexpected twists, and the quintessential noir ambiance that epitomizes the era.

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Plot Summary

Red Gillis's Arrival and Tension in Bumpus Hell ([00:25] - [05:00])

The episode opens with Red Gillis, a rugged and trouble-prone individual from the border country, arriving in Bumpus Hell. His confrontational demeanor quickly escalates tensions as he faces off with the local sheriff. Their heated exchange culminates in a violent showdown, setting the stage for the ensuing drama.

Sam Spade's Intervention and Mysterious Neighbor ([05:00] - [12:35])

Detective Sam Spade becomes entangled in the conflict when Mrs. Kelsey, an intriguing neighbor named Rosemary Fell, seeks his assistance. Their interaction is fraught with tension, revealing underlying secrets and motives. Rosemary's cryptic behavior and references to auditions hint at a deeper conspiracy involving blackmail and deceit.

Warner Hobson's Confessions and Rising Suspicion ([12:35] - [19:44])

Warner Hobson, a political enthusiast with a questionable past, emerges as a pivotal character. Through a series of confrontations, Hobson reveals his entanglement with Rosemary Fell and his desperate measures to silence her. His confessions are marred by inconsistencies, raising Sam Spade's suspicions about his true intentions and involvement in the unfolding mystery.

The Climactic Confrontation and Revelation ([19:44] - [25:16])

As the plot thickens, Sam Spade orchestrates a brilliant scheme to expose Hobson's machinations. Utilizing Rosemary's scripted blackmail recordings, Spade manipulates the situation to extract a confession from Hobson. The confrontation reaches its peak when Hobson inadvertently admits his role in Rosemary's supposed demise, only to discover it was a meticulously crafted ruse by Spade to bring him to justice. The episode concludes with Spade outsmarting Hobson, ensuring that the deceitful politician faces the consequences of his actions.

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Key Characters

• Sam Spade: The quintessential hardboiled detective, Sam exhibits sharp intuition, resilience, and a keen sense of justice. His interactions are marked by wit and a relentless pursuit of the truth.

• Rosemary Fell (Mrs. Kelsey): A mysterious and multifaceted character whose façade as a troubled neighbor masks her true agenda. Her involvement in blackmail and manipulation highlights the complexities of human motivations.

• Warner Hobson: A charismatic yet unscrupulous political figure whose desperate attempts to cover his tracks reveal his moral decay and susceptibility to corruption.

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Notable Quotes

1. Sam Spade on Detective Work:

   “I won't take no for an answer. It wouldn't be neighborly.”
   [00:21]

2. Warner Hobson's Attempt to Justify His Actions:

   “I knew that my flamboyant manner, you'd never guess it. But that is only the actress in me.”
   [06:14]

3. Sam Spade Confronting Hobson:

   “I admit I tricked Rosemary into recording those blackmail speeches and then played them back over the phone to Warner. Trying to hold on to my husband is a crime.”
   [21:21]

4. Rosemary Fell's Final Revelation:

   “It was my inspiration, I, Sam Spade, to use Deleter's Phoenix device for a higher purpose.”
   [24:22]

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Key Moments and Insights

1. Red Gillis vs. The Sheriff ([00:25] - [02:12]):
   The initial confrontation establishes the underlying tensions in Bumpus Hell, highlighting Red Gillis's aggressive nature and the sheriff's authority. This sets the tone for the ensuing conflict that draws Sam Spade into the fray.

2. Sam Spade and Rosemary's Tense Dialogue ([02:12] - [05:10]):
   The complex relationship between Sam and Rosemary unfolds through their terse exchanges. Rosemary's evasive answers and Sam's persistent questioning hint at hidden motives and impending danger.

3. Warner Hobson's Backstory and Blackmail Scheme ([06:14] - [15:26]):
   Hobson's confession reveals a web of deceit involving Rosemary Fell. His explanations of political ambitions and personal failings add layers to his character, showcasing his vulnerability and moral compromises.

4. The Masterstroke – Using Blackmail Against the Blackmailer ([21:06] - [22:36]):
   Sam Spade's ingenious plan to use Rosemary's recordings against Hobson exemplifies his tactical brilliance. By turning the tables, Spade not only exposes Hobson but also restores order in Bumpus Hell.

5. Final Confrontation and Resolution ([22:36] - [25:16]):
   The culmination of Sam's efforts leads to Hobson's downfall. The episode concludes with a satisfying resolution where justice is served, and the intricate plot threads are deftly tied together.

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Conclusions

The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Betrayal in Bumpus Hell Caper masterfully blends suspense, character development, and sharp dialogue to deliver a compelling detective narrative. Through Sam Spade's relentless pursuit of truth and his ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, the episode underscores themes of trust, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of justice. For fans of old-time radio and detective fiction, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Sam Spade's adventures during the Golden Age of Radio.

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Notable Miscellaneous Quotes:

• Sam Spade’s Determination:

  “I know my duty. And I know your duty.”
  [00:25]

• Rosemary’s Subtle Threats:

  “Don't you swear at me.”
  [02:40]

• Warner Hobson’s Regret:

  “I got halfway and found I didn't have any money and came back.”
  [19:27]

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Final Thoughts

This episode encapsulates the essence of classic radio detective stories, combining intricate plots with memorable characters. Sam Spade's encounter with betrayal in Bumpus Hell not only entertains but also provides a nuanced exploration of human flaws and the quest for redemption. As listeners traverse the shadows of Bumpus Hell alongside Sam, they are reminded of the timeless appeal of detective tales that delve deep into the heart of mystery and moral dilemmas.

Transcript

[Sam Spade]

Your message amplified.

[Rosemary Fell]

Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with podbean.

[Sam Spade]

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[Rosemary Fell]

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[Sam Spade]

To launch their podcasts. Launch your podcast on podbean today. My school uses Podbean.

[Rosemary Fell]

My church too.

[Sam Spade]

I love it. I really do.

[Rosemary Fell]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] the Adventures of Sam Spade Detective to Detective Lieutenant Dante Harrison inside Details San Francisco Police From Samuel's ferry license number 17596 subject the betrayal in Bumpus Hell. Red Gillis was a raw boned pope from the border country. He was a stranger to bumper cell, but he was no stranger to trouble. He jogged his Pinto down the narrow main street, not liking what he saw and reigned. Up in front of the sheriff's office he dismounted and slapped the trail dust off his Levi's. Then he hitched up his gun belt and ambled inside. He looked at the heavy shouldered, blue jowled man behind the desk and he didn't like what he Neither did the sheriff. Rance, blagging. State your business. I can do it better than that. State your business and get out. He snarled. Red smiled thinly and drawled, I'm looking for my brother. And what be your name outside of Red here? I can do that better. And what be your name outside of Red? Red Gillis's hand slid toward one of his six shooters as silently as the sun coming up over the butte. Gillis, he sneered. Red Gillis from the Tado Rim. That's pretty good. The sheriff's muscles tightened like steel springs and pulled him erect. Ain't no Tonto Rimmer welcome hereabouts in Bumpus Hell. He cursed. That was real good. And then the slap of four hands on leather was followed by the simultaneous roar of four six guns. Mr. Ma. Hey, wait a minute. The sheriff.

[Sam Spade]

I'm ordering there.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, who is it? The Sheriff is just Mr. Spade.

[Sam Spade]

Ms. Kelsey next door, right.

[Rosemary Fell]

My most exciting part, Mr. Spade.

[Sam Spade]

Now see here, I won't take no for an answer. It wouldn't be neighborly.

[Rosemary Fell]

What is it, Mrs. Kelsey?

[Sam Spade]

If you mind, come along. What are you up to here anyway?

[Rosemary Fell]

Who me? Oh, nothing. I'm just relaxing with an apple and a good book, that's all.

[Sam Spade]

I see no apple and the only reading matter I see is some Western trash Trash. Now, come on. There's trouble on the third floor.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, there's trouble in Bump as hell.

[Sam Spade]

Don't you swear at me. I know my duty. And I know your duty. Now, come on.

[Rosemary Fell]

Ouch. Okay, let go my ear. And that dandy, so help me, is how it started. Effie had just read a book called how to Relax. And it said there that Western stories were relaxing. And that's how I happened to be at home at 10pm Riding heard on a copy of Sheriff and Outlaw Rip Roaring Adventures of the Old West. But Bump as hell hath no fury like my neighbor Mrs. Kelsey. I left Red Gillis and the sheriff face to face and vice versa, eyes flashing and guns ablaze and followed her meekly up to the third floor. Shut up.

[Sam Spade]

Shut up, you, and shut me a few feet. Sorry. Hear that? Been at it for three hours, they have. Won't be a stick of furniture left in the room less than. There's cops.

[Rosemary Fell]

You speak to them?

[Sam Spade]

Did I speak to them? You see this lump? No. Here, under my transformation.

[Rosemary Fell]

Oh, well, why don't you call a cop?

[Sam Spade]

Why, I wouldn't be neighborly. Hit me. They did. You see this lump?

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah, yeah. You showed it to me. Put your wig back on. I'll see what I can do.

[Sam Spade]

And tell them about my lump. Get up again.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah, yeah. Put it back. Hey, open up.

[Sam Spade]

I would not go back with you if you was the last man.

[Rosemary Fell]

Hey. Hey, open up.

[Sam Spade]

If I catch you without the swell again, I'll tear your head off, you cheap grip. For you. You slam out of here before I'm forced to seek the assistance of a couple of fl. Do not try anything fancy behind my back. You. From now on, you and me is strictly on the cool. Well, you unprinciple.

[Rosemary Fell]

Don't.

[Sam Spade]

Hey, wait a minute. Hey, wait a minute. Don't I remember you from someplace?

[Rosemary Fell]

No, I'm only being neighborly. Why did you beat up on kind nice Mrs. Kelsey?

[Sam Spade]

That is a gross falsehood. I did not lay a hand on the old wag. It was that odious stinker, Joe Jonigan, who had just left. And you can tell him as for me that I am extremely unimpressed with his cheap threats to rub me out and that I intend to continue on seeing Mr. Hobson or any other johns which I care to.

[Rosemary Fell]

That's a pretty good scene. Well, you better tell him that yourself. I don't imagine I'll be seeing it.

[Sam Spade]

You won't. Wait a minute. Who are you, anyway?

[Rosemary Fell]

Just another tenant. I live downstairs.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, now, I Recall whom you are. You are that Shayla which lives on the second floor.

[Rosemary Fell]

Sham, as we call it in the radio.

[Sam Spade]

Would you care to come in and discuss a certain matter?

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, thanks. Another time. I gotta get back to Bumper's help, whoever she is.

[Sam Spade]

Let her cool her heels for a few moments.

[Rosemary Fell]

No, you don't understand.

[Sam Spade]

Bumper's help is an urgent matter which I would like to hash over right now and without further delay.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, I.

[Sam Spade]

May I invite you in for a straight slug?

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, okay, but just one in a glass.

[Sam Spade]

All right, make yourself lumpy. Now, say when.

[Rosemary Fell]

Just up to the lipstick mark.

[Sam Spade]

Here you are. Well, now, to make a long story short, Mrs. Spade, my name is Rosemary Sell, which remains my fate name notwithstanding the circumstance that I am legally married to that barnacle which is just dusted this joint. Now, being as you are in the detective business.

[Rosemary Fell]

Now, wait a minute.

[Sam Spade]

Kindly permit me to finish, honey.

[Rosemary Fell]

Sorry, sweetheart.

[Sam Spade]

I'm not the type to jaw about my troubles just to pass the time of day.

[Rosemary Fell]

I'm sure you.

[Sam Spade]

I am an actress.

[Rosemary Fell]

I knew that.

[Sam Spade]

And although I'm low in funds due to being between jobs right now on account of that knothead making a scene in the last joint at which I worked. Keep Ginger rail. Just to show you how the brakes fall, Mr. Spade. Velida Wilkerson, who just happened to be about the biggest talent agent in this city, if you have the time.

[Rosemary Fell]

I'm impressed.

[Sam Spade]

Phoned me. Phoned me on the telephone and arranged a audition. She also advanced me the sum of 100 clams.

[Rosemary Fell]

100.

[Sam Spade]

Which I will pay you to put the be on that dog, Joe Donegan, the rat.

[Rosemary Fell]

Now, which is he? What do you mean, put the B on?

[Sam Spade]

Listen, Sam, that grifter has got a record as long as my arm. And what I have got on him is longer than his arm.

[Rosemary Fell]

Please.

[Sam Spade]

In short, I should like him thrown into the can so that I can feel safe to sing on him.

[Rosemary Fell]

Look, Rosemary, so you had a fight with Joe. You saw. You want him to pay. You want to pay him off. Now, why don't you just wait until morning and see how you feel.

[Sam Spade]

That knuckle duster remains at large. I will be feeling no pain. Now, I. I know that from my flamboyant manner, you'd never guess it. But that is only the actress in me. In actuality, that flea intends to do me in.

[Rosemary Fell]

Oh, now, come, Rosemary.

[Sam Spade]

What, you disagree?

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, now, really, Rosemary.

[Sam Spade]

Why, a big pain in the neck, Rosemary, drinking my. Pour that back in a bot, Don. Put it back in the Bottle.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, I'll be going now. Only trying to be neighborly. Well, back to bump as hell. Lance Flaggett, the smoking colt still gripped in his hairy fists, suddenly pitched forward like a fallen Joshua tree at Red Gillis feet. Red leaned over with a thin smile playing at the corners of his mouth, not liking what he saw, and lifted the badge off of Bladgett's cowhide vest and trimmed it on. Bumpus Hell had a new sheriff. Hey. Hey. Then I heard it. It sounded like a man sneaking up a fire escape. I went over to the window, raised it and looked up. I didn't like what I saw. An overcoated figure reached the third floor landing and stood silhouetted against the lighted window of Rosemary's apartment. It was about the height and weight of that rat, Joe Donegan. By the time I rolled out the window onto the escaped, his right hand had come out of his coat pocket. Donegan. Donegan. Watch it. He was a floor ahead of me, and I didn't want to get too close to him until I passed that lighted window. He made the roof just as I crossed in front of it. The flashes from his revolver told me that. They also told me he had two slugs left to throw at me. The only light up there was a feeble glow from the skylight, dead center. I headed to the COVID of a brick chimney just to the left of it. I had two things in mind. The skylight was his most logical avenue of escape, and I hoped I could tease him into emptying his gun at me. It didn't work. I stuck my head out. No shots. But he did use his gun. Boom. I should have stood and bump as hell. The United States Armed Forces Radio Service is presenting the weekly adventure of Dashiell Hammett's famous private detective, Sam Spade.

[Sam Spade]

Sam. Sam. Oh, what did that rat do to you as a dog? Sam. Sam, speak to me.

[Rosemary Fell]

Come on. Send an Indian to set his mouth. Tell the governor the sheriff of Bumpus Hell is turning in his.

[Sam Spade]

Listen, honey, you got to pull yourself together now. Come on. Come on, come on. These delirious Trumans will get us no place. Now, come on, Sam.

[Rosemary Fell]

I guess you're right.

[Sam Spade]

Come on. Come now. Do not rush things, honey. That was quite a clip he gave you.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah. Where were you?

[Sam Spade]

I was combing my hair out of.

[Rosemary Fell]

The window and he was on the fire escape not four feet away. Not a very good shot, is he?

[Sam Spade]

No, he isn't. Oh, Sam, look at your poor little head. Here, now, let me kiss it and make it well. Wild root.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yes. You know, it gets me ahead socially and on the job.

[Sam Spade]

Well, now, what next, Sam?

[Rosemary Fell]

Rosemary, I am going to the top now. My dander is up. Let's have a moment of silence while I put through a call to Lt. Thomas Dundee of Homicide. It took your boys less than an hour to locate Joe Donegan and haul him in. Lt. Rosemary's charges were not enough to hold him on attempted murder, and all I could identify was the back of his neck. But you were good enough to fag him anyway. So Rosemary and I could relax. I went downstairs to bed and started. Chapter four. Aha. Red Gillis didn't trust Curly Mallard, the foreman of the crooked s. Aha. Unique garage. Harry speaking. Sam, this is Dundee. Yeah, Dundee. What time is it? The hat. Oh, 8:30. And in the morning? Yeah. Huh? Oh, yeah, it's daylight. See about that. What was his name? Donegan. Anyway, that fella we booked last night? On your say so. Well, what about. That was a bad beef, Sam. How come? You better tell me. Man was alibi, Sam. When did that happen? Well, a fellow named. He got it written down. Hobson. Warner Hobson. Says Donegan was with him at the time. Who else says so? Hobson's words are good enough for the Commissioner. Ran for assembly once. Did you know he also ran for Donegan's wife? You don't say. Well, that's a real puzzler, Sam. The human mind is unpredictable, Dundee. Oh, yeah, Well, I. I hope you figure it out, Sam. While I was shaving, I fought. And I wondered what Red Gillis would have done if such a situation had cropped up in Bumpus Hell. A thin smile began to play around the corners of my mouth as I climbed the stairs to Rosemary's apartment. When I got there, I didn't like what I saw. It was a note pinned to the door. It said, dear Sam, I have been called to do another audition. If anything crops up, you can reach me at Graystone 34292.

[Sam Spade]

The Deleta Wilkerson Talent Agency.

[Rosemary Fell]

Hey, I want to speak to Rosemary Fell.

[Sam Spade]

Podbean. Your message amplified.

[Rosemary Fell]

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

[Sam Spade]

Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform.

[Rosemary Fell]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean.

[Sam Spade]

To launch their podcasts. Use Podbean to record your podcasts.

[Rosemary Fell]

Use Podbean AI to optimize your podcast.

[Sam Spade]

Use Podbean AI to turn your blog into a podcast.

[Rosemary Fell]

Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere.

[Sam Spade]

Launch your podcast on Podbean. Today.

[Rosemary Fell]

Hello?

[Sam Spade]

Yes, I'm still on the line. Who's calling, please?

[Rosemary Fell]

Sam spade.

[Sam Spade]

I'm sorry, Mr. Spade, Ms. Fell can't come to the phone.

[Rosemary Fell]

Who's in charge there?

[Sam Spade]

This is Ms. Wilkerson speaking.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah? Well, why can't she come to the phone?

[Sam Spade]

She's in the middle of her audition. Well, is there any message?

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah, yeah, tell her Donegan's out and it's Hobson's choice. Yes, Mr. Hobson? Yes? My name is Spade.

[Warner Hobson]

Oh, yes, Mr. Spade. Come in, come in, come in.

[Rosemary Fell]

Why did you phony up that alibi for Rosemary's husband, Mr. Hodson?

[Warner Hobson]

Huh? Oh, because I knew he's not the man who fired those shots at her.

[Rosemary Fell]

Were you there?

[Warner Hobson]

As a matter of fact, I was. Would you like to hear about it?

[Rosemary Fell]

I would.

[Warner Hobson]

Well, first I better tell you a little about myself. For the past year, I've been interested in politics. If I do say so.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yes, yes, I know. You ran for assembly. Come to the point.

[Warner Hobson]

Well, in a way, this is the point. My wife's a professional woman, and her own career keeps her busy a good deal of the time. Well, like the movie magazines say, a clash of careers and so on. That's how I happened to take up with Rosemary. I didn't know she was married, and of course, when I found out, I dropped her like a hot potato.

[Rosemary Fell]

Potato?

[Warner Hobson]

Yeah, potato. And then she started blackmailing me. Did you know about that?

[Rosemary Fell]

I still don't.

[Warner Hobson]

Well, I think I can convince you.

[Rosemary Fell]

Go ahead.

[Warner Hobson]

Well, I received a series of threatening phone calls from Rosemary, and I finally decided to go to Donegan and tell him the whole story. Oh, he was as mad as a wet head. He said he'd stop her, and I believed he was the right man to do it. Well, last night he phoned me. He said he'd had a little. Little caucus meeting with her and assured me I'd had no more trouble. But no sooner had I hung up that phone when she called again, making another outrageous demand. I decided then and there to take things into my own hands. So happens I'm a crack shot. And I knew that I could come close enough to frighten her without actually hurting her.

[Rosemary Fell]

You were laboring under a false impression, huh?

[Sam Spade]

Oh.

[Warner Hobson]

Oh, yes, yes. Well, you believe me now?

[Rosemary Fell]

Up to a point.

[Warner Hobson]

Well, I'm afraid that's all I have for you, Mr. Spades.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, I have something for you.

[Warner Hobson]

Oh, what's that?

[Rosemary Fell]

Look up here. You see this bruise in my head? Well, all in the game, you know, to shake. Now, hold it. Hold It.

[Warner Hobson]

I. I only.

[Rosemary Fell]

Lie still. I'll get it.

[Sam Spade]

Yeah, this is Rosemary again.

[Rosemary Fell]

Listen, I want to talk to you cheap ward healer.

[Sam Spade]

If you don't have that dough for me tonight, I will have no other recourse but to smear your fat all over the front page.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah, look, Rose.

[Sam Spade]

And I am just the individual to do that. You may think you are a wolf in sheep's clothing, but in my opinion, you are nothing but a worm. Yeah, well, look, buy you rats and wrap.

[Rosemary Fell]

Hey. Hey, Rosemary. Hello, nuts.

[Warner Hobson]

Oh, wait a minute, Speed. Well, what did she say?

[Rosemary Fell]

You're gonna read it in my report along with a bill for my services.

[Sam Spade]

No. I'm so sorry, kid. Men. You do that, sugar. Hello there.

[Rosemary Fell]

Likewise.

[Sam Spade]

Are you talent or just interested?

[Rosemary Fell]

I could be. In the meantime, is Rosemary Fell still here?

[Sam Spade]

Did she have an appointment today?

[Rosemary Fell]

Yes, honey, I called this morning. She was here.

[Sam Spade]

Then you must be mistaken, darling. The office didn't open till noon today.

[Rosemary Fell]

Could I talk to Ms. Wilkerson?

[Sam Spade]

He isn't here just now. She never gets into one.

[Rosemary Fell]

Not until one.

[Sam Spade]

She's over at KQW cutting a transcription for our new show, Gold of the Golden Gate. Oh, oh, no. I mean Gayle as a girl goat.

[Rosemary Fell]

Don't you mean Gala, the golden girl.

[Sam Spade]

Of the Golden Gate?

[Rosemary Fell]

You said it. Nine glass.

[Sam Spade]

Well, anyway, she in here. Good morning, Maggie. Any calls for me? Oh, yes. Ms. Wilkes in your house. Oh, look at that. I was telling this gentleman you weren't here. Obviously I am. Did you have an appointment?

[Rosemary Fell]

I talked to you on the phone this morning, Spade.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, Rosemary's friend.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, you might.

[Sam Spade]

She'll be out in a moment. What a distressing business that was last night. Rosemary tells me you saved her life.

[Rosemary Fell]

Well, that's a slight exaggeration. In fact, the whole thing was a mistake.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, really? I understood that. Oh, here she is, Rosemary. Here's your friend. I'm, however, glad to see you.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

What's the matter?

[Rosemary Fell]

Plenty.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, well, thanks loads, Ms. Wilkerson. I hope the recording is better on this one. I'm sure it is, Rosemary. We'll call you when the client makes up his mind. Well, thanks again. Come on, Sam. Goodbye, Mr. Bates. Goodbye, Sam. What is this new development that appears to be griping you?

[Rosemary Fell]

Why didn't you tell me you were shaking? Hobson, Tom.

[Sam Spade]

Aha. And who's been feeding you this pile of gross falsehood?

[Rosemary Fell]

Look, Rosemary, you may be an actress, but with me your audition is over and you did not get the part.

[Sam Spade]

And just what are your future intentions in regards to me.

[Rosemary Fell]

None whatsoever. I'm sorry I ever met you and I'm going back to Bumpus Hell. I went back to the office, swiveled my chair into a comfortable position, opened the February number of sheriff and outlaw to page 112. The trail and bumper's hell. Chapter five. Stampede. It was disappointing. There was a lot of stuff about bawling cattle and dust clouds and Flo and Curly standing on top of a butte not liking what they saw. When somebody yelled stampede. Red Gillis was riding ahead of the cattle and his horse stepped into a chuckle and he'd sprained his ankle. Red of the horse, it didn't say which. But Red was lying prostrate in the path of the avalanche of tossing horns, not liking what he saw. Hold it a minute. Let's see on page 113. Learn to be a private. Hello, Spade, this is Hobson.

[Warner Hobson]

Come out here right away. Something terrible has happened.

[Rosemary Fell]

Such as?

[Warner Hobson]

Rosemary is here and I. I think she's dead. In here, Spade. Oh, I don't know how she got in. Oh, yes, I do remember. I must have left the door unlocked.

[Rosemary Fell]

Where were you?

[Warner Hobson]

Why, I. I just stepped out to get some cigarettes.

[Rosemary Fell]

Did he approve it?

[Warner Hobson]

Why? Oh, I'm afraid not. I got halfway and found I didn't have any money and came back.

[Rosemary Fell]

You came back? Walked through this room, went in the bedroom and didn't see the body until you started back?

[Warner Hobson]

Yes. The lights were off. I. I stumbled over.

[Rosemary Fell]

This is the gun?

[Warner Hobson]

Yes. She did it with my own gun. Oh, I never dreamed her love for me would drive her to self destruction. Of course, now it's clear what really lay behind her. Poor clumsy ever to blackmail me. It was a desperate move to get me back. Oh, I'll never forgive myself for driving that poor girl to this.

[Rosemary Fell]

Don't worry about that, Hobbs. This isn't suicide.

[Sam Spade]

Murder.

[Warner Hobson]

Oh, great heavens. What will Beleda say?

[Rosemary Fell]

Belita?

[Warner Hobson]

Yes, my wife.

[Rosemary Fell]

Billita Wilkerson.

[Warner Hobson]

Yeah, professional name. You know, I was explaining to you before that. Oh, it's my wife. Now what in the world do I tell her?

[Rosemary Fell]

Never mind, I'll get it.

[Sam Spade]

Hello, this is Rosemary. For the last time, I'm just calling to tell you that you have stalled around too long. I have talked to your wife and told her the whole sordid pitch. Why she wants you back I will never know. But I sold you cheap and you weren't worth a cent more. I am a girl who does not like to do things halfway. But you were just too late. Goodbye, you fathead.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yeah, Rosemary. I guess we were all too late. I called you Dundee. And then, like the rat I am, made off of your prize suspect before you and your boys from Homicide arrived. We arrived at the Bolita Wilkerson Talent Agency just as the boss was shutting up shop for the day. She had the recordings under her arm. All right, Bolita, I'll take those.

[Sam Spade]

Well, what are you. Warner, Mr. Spade.

[Rosemary Fell]

Unlock the door. Belita. We're going back in.

[Sam Spade]

Warner, why are you.

[Warner Hobson]

Better do as he says, Belita.

[Sam Spade]

Well, all right, but give me those keys.

[Rosemary Fell]

Inside, both of you. What do you play these records?

[Sam Spade]

The recording studio is just through there. But you can spare yourself the trouble. I admit I tricked Rosemary into recording those blackmail speeches and then played them back over the phone to Warner. Trying to hold on to my husband is a crime. Then I'm a criminal now.

[Warner Hobson]

Believe it, my dear.

[Rosemary Fell]

Come on, stop that. We gotta get busy. I phoned the Hobson house and you were still there. Dandy. You said it was an open and shut case against Hobson and deliver him at once or kiss my license goodbye. But when I told you my diabo. Diabolically ingenious scheme, you said yes, you'd be glad to. Because it was a sure way of getting rid of me once and for all. It took us nearly two hours to get things ready in Velita's recording studio. We took the parts of Rosemary's so called audition records that we thought would fit the occasion and dubbed them onto a single side. We played it back once. Then I phoned you at headquarters.

[Warner Hobson]

Homicide.

[Rosemary Fell]

Lieutenant Dundee. Spade. Dundee. Everything's ready here. Did you pick up Donegan? Oh, yeah, he's here. Donnigan. Hold on. Okay, Belina, start the record when I give you the nod.

[Sam Spade]

Yes, Mr. St.

[Rosemary Fell]

I didn't say it. Donegan. That's for you.

[Sam Spade]

Nice.

[Warner Hobson]

Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

Who's this? This is Rosemary. I forgive you for everything. But there are some things I cannot forget. You. Mostly, it sounds like we have meant a lot to each other. But after. After what you have done to me, it is time you go through the nose.

[Warner Hobson]

I was right.

[Sam Spade]

I didn't mean it.

[Warner Hobson]

When I followed you to his house.

[Sam Spade]

And you went and I didn't like you. It is time you paid through the nose. You rat. I am a girl who does not like to do things halfway.

[Rosemary Fell]

Listen, honey, you're not gonna throw the look at me, are you?

[Sam Spade]

Honest, I'm glad to hear your voice. I thought you were dead men a lot.

[Rosemary Fell]

Okay, kill it.

[Sam Spade]

Rosemary, are you listening? Rosemary? No, she's still on the line.

[Warner Hobson]

I want to talk to her.

[Rosemary Fell]

Take him. Full house.

[Sam Spade]

Wait.

[Rosemary Fell]

Take him. Sam. Yeah, Dundee. Congratulations. That was a brilliant piece of work. Sam, you still on the line? Yeah, I'll be all right, Dundee. I just fainted temporarily. Say it again, will you, pal? Yeah. As I was saying, congratulations on a brilliant piece of work. Well, but I have never, in all my years on the force, heard of such a wild, insane, illegal, unethical and downright cruel method of extorting a confession. Thank you, Dundee. I feel better already. Period. End of report.

[Sam Spade]

But, Sam, what happened?

[Rosemary Fell]

Effie, I thought I had made that abundantly clear.

[Sam Spade]

No.

[Rosemary Fell]

In order to discredit her husband's paramour, Belita gave her a come on about an audition and had her play the part of a blackmailer, reading lines from a script which she believed had prepared, and thereupon proceeded to play said records over the telephone, well, knowing that her husband would erroneously believe Rosemary to be a blackmailer, in fact, and would drop her like a hot spud.

[Sam Spade]

No, Sam, no, I don't mean.

[Rosemary Fell]

Don't interrupt. It was my inspiration, I, Sam Spade, to use Deleter's Phoenix device for a higher purpose.

[Sam Spade]

No, Sam, no, that is what I. No, Sam, I. I meant the Western story, Betrayal and Bumpus Crick.

[Rosemary Fell]

It is not Crick, Effie.

[Sam Spade]

You can't say H over the.

[Rosemary Fell]

Yes, you can. Bumpus Hell is the post office designation of a hamlet right here in California.

[Sam Spade]

It is? Well, anyway, what happened? Did Red Gillis ever find his brother?

[Rosemary Fell]

I didn't quite finish yet. Go type that up and I shall.

[Sam Spade]

Here it is, Sam. Oh, Sam. What's the matter? You don't look at all weird.

[Rosemary Fell]

Can't be. It doesn't happen. It's a misprint, that's what it is.

[Sam Spade]

What? Sam?

[Rosemary Fell]

Maybe the writer was tired.

[Sam Spade]

Oh. Oh, Sam, it's only a story.

[Rosemary Fell]

That's what you think.

[Sam Spade]

Well, did Red Gillis find his brother?

[Rosemary Fell]

I won't tell.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, my. Sam. Now, don't be childish.

[Rosemary Fell]

Oh, well, all right. Remember the sheriff? He shot on page one what it turned out to be the new school Mars.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, how ornery a woman.

[Rosemary Fell]

Get off. Good night, sweetheart. This is the United States Armed Forces Radio Service, the voice of information and education. It.