The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Sure Thing Caper 02/09/1951

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Adventures of Sam Spade – "The Sure Thing Caper"

Introduction

The Adventures of Sam Spade is a classic old-time radio detective series that captivates listeners with its intriguing mysteries and charismatic protagonist. In the episode titled "The Sure Thing Caper," aired on February 9, 1951, Sam Spade delves into the murky world of horse racing, deception, and redemption. This detailed summary explores the key events, character dynamics, and pivotal moments that define this thrilling installment.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens with a glimpse into Sam Spade's personal life, highlighting the tension between his professional endeavors and his relationship with Effie, his assistant.

• Effie informs Sam about a call from a man named Five Dollar Frankie who claims to have placed a bet on Sam's behalf:
  “Sam, a man named Five Dollar Frankie called up and said he's putting two dollars in your name on a sure thing at some track or other.” [00:35]

• Effie expresses her disapproval of Sam’s gambling habits, leading to a playful yet tense exchange:

  • Sam reassures, “No buts about it. And besides, I didn't place the bet. It was placed for me.” [00:53]
  • Effie counters, emphasizing the principle: “I don't care. It's the principle of the thing.” [00:57]

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The Introduction of Five Dollar Frankie

Five Dollar Frankie emerges as a pivotal character whose involvement complicates Sam's life.

• Frankie approaches Sam unexpectedly:

  • Frankie: “Sammy, do not look as if you have just lamped the ghost. It is I, Five Dollar Frankie.” [03:31]
  • Sam expresses confusion and suspicion about Frankie's sudden appearance.

• Frankie outlines the predicament:

  • “A rather curious situation has arisen and I will explain it candidly.” [04:00]
  • He details a failed horse betting scheme involving Gentle Joe Higgins and the loss of money, suggesting foul play.

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Unraveling the Mystery

Sam Spade begins his investigation into Frankie’s claims, leading him to a ramshackle rooming house and an enigmatic landlady.

• Sam describes his encounter with Gentle Joe Higgins:

  • “I can't understand it, Mr. Spade. General Joe Higgins hasn't been around here for at least two years.” [07:35]

• His confrontation with the landlady reveals more about Gentle Joe's disappearance and samurai-like threats from Frankie’s associates, Dinosaur Torelli and Bones Molten:

  • Landlady: “I hate private detectives. Can't trust them.” [09:11]
  • Frankie warns Sam about the impending danger:
    “Mayhaps they have already contacted Gentle Joe for an accounting.” [19:37]

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Confrontation and Deception

Sam's pursuit leads to a violent confrontation orchestrated by Frankie’s cohorts.

• A physical altercation ensues when Crimson Frankie and his allies confront Sam:

  • Frankie threatens, “You want some of the sand?” [23:45]
  • Sam engages in a fight, taking a blow to his forehead, resulting in unconsciousness:
    “I know this sounds repetitious, but I went out again.” [24:09]

• Upon waking, Sam discovers that Gentle Joe has been brutally attacked, intensifying the mystery.

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The Ghostly Revelation

In a supernatural twist, Sam is visited by a ghostly Gentle Joe, providing crucial insights.

• The ghost of Gentle Joe clarifies his intentions and the true motive behind the deception:
  • “I wanted to buy a horse with Frankie’s money to help Sandy Bean’s family.” [21:22]
  • He explains the tragic accident caused by his sabotaged horse, leading to the death of jockey Sandy Bean:
    “The horse I doped didn't get into the race, and the jockey had to ride another mount. He was thrown and killed.” [22:00]

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Resolution and Redemption

With the truth unveiled, Sam orchestrates a reconciliation between the parties involved.

• Sam brokers a meeting where Frankie and his associates agree to present a sincere gesture:

  • Frankie and his friends arrive with a chestnut mare named Sure Thing, intended for Danny Bean, Sandy’s son:
    “This is indeed a signal occasion, huh?” [26:14]

• Gentle Joe’s redemption is complete as he fulfills his promise to Sandy Bean’s family, restoring faith in horse players and resolving the financial disputes.

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Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Sam and Effie reflecting on the events, emphasizing the importance of integrity and community support:

• Effie suggests contributing to the horse’s upkeep, highlighting Sam’s philanthropic nature:

  • “We ought to contribute something along with everybody else to that horse.” [28:38]

• Sam affirms his commitment while maintaining his detective duties:

  • “Five Dollar Frankie and his pals will take good care of Sure Thing. How about worrying about taking care of me?” [28:57]

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Notable Quotes

• Sam Spade: “Well, that's nice to hear.” [00:43]
• Five Dollar Frankie: “I will pay you, of course, in five dollar bills, as is my won't in advance.” [04:40]
• Gentle Joe Higgins: “Do you know what it is to love horse flesh and not be able to go near it for five years?” [21:44]
• Sam Spade: “I knocked Torelli's gun aside, hit him with a hard left and he didn't go down.” [23:47]

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Conclusion

The Sure Thing Caper masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, moral dilemmas, and personal redemption. Sam Spade's unwavering pursuit of truth and justice not only resolves the immediate conflict but also restores harmony among the characters. This episode stands as a testament to the timeless allure of detective narratives and the enduring charm of Sam Spade.

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Key Characters

• Sam Spade: The quintessential hard-boiled detective, balancing his professional challenges with personal relationships.
• Effie: Sam’s loyal assistant, providing both support and a moral compass.
• Five Dollar Frankie: A dubious character whose actions drive the central conflict.
• Gentle Joe Higgins: A reformed horse trainer seeking redemption for past misdeeds.
• Dinosaur Torelli & Bones Molten: Frankie's intimidating associates involved in coercive tactics.

Themes

• Redemption and Forgiveness: Gentle Joe’s quest to make amends for past mistakes.
• Deception and Trust: The intricate web of lies spun by Frankie and his impact on Sam’s investigation.
• Integrity: Sam’s steadfast commitment to uncovering the truth despite personal and professional obstacles.

Production Credits

• Producer/Director: William Spears
• Sam Spade: Stephen Dunn
• Effie: Loreen Tuttle
• Gentle Joe Higgins: Wally Mayer
• Writer: John Michael Hayes
• Music: Lud Gluskin, conducted by Robert Armbruster

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Final Thoughts

The Adventures of Sam Spade continues to enthrall audiences with its compelling storytelling and memorable characters. "The Sure Thing Caper" not only delivers suspense and intrigue but also imparts valuable lessons on accountability and the power of second chances. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, this episode is a quintessential example of why Sam Spade remains a beloved figure in the annals of detective fiction.

Transcript

[Sam Spade]

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].

[Narrator]

The National Broadcasting Company presents the Adventures of Sam Spade Detective.

[Effie]

Sam's Bay Detective Agency.

[Sam Spade]

Me sweetheart.

[Effie]

Sam, a man named Five Dollar Frankie called up and said he's putting two dollars in your name on a sure thing at some track or other.

[Sam Spade]

Well, that's nice to hear.

[Effie]

I don't think it is at all. You know I don't approve of your gambling, Sam.

[Sam Spade]

Effie, you do some things I disapprove of. But do I snipe at you?

[Effie]

Well, no but.

[Sam Spade]

No buts about it. And besides, I didn't place the bet. It was placed for me.

[Effie]

I don't care. It's the principle of the thing. I don't lie.

[Sam Spade]

Well, suppose I put it this way, Effie. That too, on a sure thing was more than just a money bet. It was a gamble on the inherent goodness of the human soul.

[Effie]

Oh, Sam, you're just trying to confuse me.

[Sam Spade]

I am, But I'll straighten everything out to your satisfaction, I trust, when I appear at the office with a highly stylized and rather charming saga of horse players and the world they live in. What else but the sure thing caper.

[Narrator]

For NBC? William Spear, Radio's Outstanding Producer, Director of Mystery and Crime Drama, brings you the greatest private detective of them all in the Adventures of Sam Spade.

[Sam Spade]

Yes, and I hope you always are at the wages I pay you.

[Effie]

Oh, I'm glad you brought that up, Sam.

[Sam Spade]

When I pay them, I don't want.

[Effie]

To start an argument, but I do need some new clothes. Oh, you want me to put up a. A good front, don't you?

[Sam Spade]

I will rephrase my answer. Yes. Well, Effie, if you can hold warp and Wolf together for a few weeks, I have a feeling we'll be rolling in dough, driving big cars and wearing mink.

[Effie]

Oh, you mean that, Beth? All conjecture.

[Sam Spade]

Enough of your sneering. May you hear me out, weigh the evidence and maybe you'll feel differently.

[Effie]

I doubt it. No good comes of playing the horses.

[Sam Spade]

Date. Fill it in. 2. Five dollar Frankie, care of, ma' am.

[Effie]

Wait a minute now. Five dollar Frankie what? What's his last name?

[Sam Spade]

I don't think he has one. If, as I get it, he was born just before a Gold Cup Handicapimlico and they didn't have time to give him a last name and place a bet too, so they chose the bet.

[Effie]

Oh, Sam, that's Awful?

[Sam Spade]

What do you mean awful? That horse paid 18 to 1. Well, well. To get on two five dollar Frankie, care of Patterson Smoke Shop, Myrtle Street City. From Samuel Sucker Spade, San Francisco license number 137596. Subject the sure Thing Caper, dear. Five Dollar Frankie, were you to be seen at the hour of 1pm post time anywhere but at the track is truly a veritable unbelievable occurrence. So when my door pivoted open Monday at said R and a short gent with 36 shoulders and a 44 long plaid coat came in, my eyes, told me it was you, but my mind screamed no. I checked your wide brim pork pie, your zoot gabardine slacks, suede and alligator wingtip shoes and it still repeated you, you.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

You.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Sammy, do not look as if you have just lamped the ghost. It is I, Five Dollar Frankie.

[Sam Spade]

But at this hour. Frankie, what is it? Your watch broken? Did you lose your way? You sleepwalking?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

What?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

No, Sam, I am in complete possession of my faculties.

[Sam Spade]

Good.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

And I came here with the full knowledge of my intellectual.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Uh huh.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

I even see through the crystal of my timepiece that it is one o' clock, the hour from which they break from the barrier.

[Sam Spade]

That's right.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

But I have not been drinking. And as far as sleepwalking, that is strictly for gents with unhappy marital relationships.

[Sam Spade]

All right, Frankie, I'm forced to agree with you that you were standing in front of me instead of the five dollar window. Now, what's the dope?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Well, ordinarily I do not resort to hiring a strong arm to consummate my business dealing. Naturally there being a full supply of such muscles lying around the back room of Patterson's Smoke Shop loose. But when the job calls for both tact and muscle, I am forced to roam far abroad in search of the same.

[Sam Spade]

You mean you have a job for me? A real honest a seabiscuit job that'll.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Pay money with the ordinary Seamus. I might try to offer a little paddock charity, you know. Yes, but would you, Sammy? With you I will tender coin of the realm.

[Sam Spade]

Good.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

I will pay you, of course, in five dollar bills, as is my won't in advance. And 20, 30, 40, 50, 10 times five figures. Now, do you veritably consider yourself in my employ?

[Sam Spade]

I am veritably in the race, Frankie. Good.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Now, Sammy, leave it to be understood by both parties that I am not touting you off on any sour deals. A rather curious situation has arisen and I will explain it to you candidly. As they say in certain novels which I Have not read.

[Sam Spade]

Well, most novels lose so much in the translation.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

True, true. Yeah.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

My narrative begins yesterday, to be exact. Yesterday. Their heels and toes into the back room of Patterson Smoke Shop. A gent whose face was once as familiar to me as my own by name, said gent. They call him a Gentle Joe Higgins.

[Sam Spade]

Gentle Joe?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Yeah, a horse trainer by profession, which in our civilized society stands second only to jockeys and important.

[Sam Spade]

Granted, granted. No argument.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Well, I say to Gentle Joe, it has been some time, Gentle Joe, since I see you around and about. And he says, I have gave up the old life for the new, as I no longer am welcome at the track since a certain embarrassing incident five years ago.

[Sam Spade]

What incident was that, Frankie?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

A horse doping job. The illegal type, which depresses me to relate, so I will not.

[Sam Spade]

Ethics.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Yeah.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yeah.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Well, Gentle Joe looks a little wise for the wear, his clothing being a little shabby. Oh, I figure a touch. And I am preparing a story that will wring tears from a tax collector even.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

What? What?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Gentle Joe does not mention the word touch. Instead, he announces he has a sure thing. Sammy, you know how those words do to a horse player.

[Sam Spade]

It's like throwing a bale of catnip to a lion.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

My arteries open to let the blood through faster. My. My, my. My nerves give off loud ringing noises and my mind is already computing, of course. Well, before I can stop myself, I have pressed 500 rocks in gentle Joe's hand, begging him to place them on the same short thing.

[Sam Spade]

I'd have done the same thing under.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

The circumstances, of course, but Gentle Joe says it will take at least 1500 rocks to pull off the deal.

[Sam Spade]

Oh.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

He further advises me that the horse in question is due to retain 20 rocks to one.

[Sam Spade]

So you gave him the other tiles?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Well, not having it in my genes at the time, I. I cut two other business and professional friends in on the grave. Dinosaur torelli and bones molten. Five bills apiece. And then Gentle Joe rushes out of.

[Sam Spade]

Patterson's and has never been heard from again.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

A sad tale.

[Sam Spade]

You think he just stole the money?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Sam, Gentle Joe Higgins is a horse player, not a common sneak thief.

[Sam Spade]

I'm sorry. Sorry. But did he leave town?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

He did not. On the advice of certain informers, I tracked this Gentle Joe to a ramble shackle rooming house on Clark street, too. What he want to be sad.

[Sam Spade]

And.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

And there the trail gets very cold. Very cold indeed.

[Sam Spade]

He's made his move.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

No, no, no. But he had a landlady who would not let me in. Oh, she is a frightening person. To behold, she is indeed half wildcat and half witch.

[Sam Spade]

I'll deal with her.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

And tell Gentle Joe that I am not an overly suspicious person. But also relate to him my position. Dinosaur Torelli and Bones Molten are two such gents as it is wise not to cross rough back fence. Gossip has it they are the undertaker's best friends. Well, indeed. It is also rumored they are behind their quota for the month. Well. Oh, and Sam.

[Sam Spade]

Yeah?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

At Bay Meadows.

[Sam Spade]

Yeah.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

A bad card. Nothing going today.

[Sam Spade]

In preparation for my meeting with this redoubtable landlady, I ran through my repertoire of low, mean faces in front of the mirror, leaving smoking holes in the glass. And then I stamped out, heading for the rooming house on Clark Street. 2:41, to be exact. My knock was answered by. Well, it was even worse than you told me. She was gumming a sen. Sen. What.

[Landlady]

Are you standing there for? You're shaking my geranium.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, no. Well, sir.

[Landlady]

Speak up. Speak up, Curly. I ain't got all day.

[Sam Spade]

Madam, perchance do you house in this quaint colonial inn? A fine old gentleman called Gentle Joe Higgins.

[Landlady]

You the Lord?

[Sam Spade]

No, I'm in business for myself. See this? Oh.

[Landlady]

One thing I hate worse than the Lord is private detectives. Can't trust them.

[Effie]

Nope.

[Landlady]

Cheap. Never have any money.

[Sam Spade]

Hey, look.

[Landlady]

Never want to pay anything. Always want something for nothing. Surely no good lot of pocket pickers who should all be boiled in oil and thrown in a pit full of snarling.

[Sam Spade]

One moment, madam. Madam, look at this.

[Landlady]

Oh, well, that's the kind of crinkling I'd like to hear.

[Sam Spade]

Thought you would.

[Landlady]

Wouldn't mind having a mattress to pull that green paper.

[Sam Spade]

It is a pleasure distinctly to be able to present it to such a charming, witty and gay woman, I guess, as yourself.

[Landlady]

Now, come in, come in, Bright eye.

[Sam Spade]

Yes. Now, where did you say Gentle Joe could be located?

[Landlady]

Over the left.

[Sam Spade]

Thank you kindly.

[Landlady]

On here, then go not somewhere. Yes.

[Sam Spade]

Your timing, madam, and I should add the farge, was a little sadistic. Now give me my five back.

[Landlady]

You ain't heard my proposition.

[Sam Spade]

I've heard enough. Madam, you have acted in a very hateful manner.

[Landlady]

Another five. I'll let you wait in his room.

[Sam Spade]

Madam, you are at Dresden. Down. No matter what anybody says, get on the channel.

[Landlady]

Away Relox, and let's go. Let's have a ball.

[Sam Spade]

Once in Gentle Joe's room, I closed the door, thus separating myself from that skid row bankhead. While I was waiting, I cased the room. Spartan. A bed, a chair, a dresser, a racing form some worn clothes, various mementos and pictures of his better days at the track. I was studying an old print of Equipoise when Gentle Joe turned up.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yes, he was a great stretch runner, wasn't he? Yes, indeed. A mile and 141 and 5th, and hardly damp at the end.

[Sam Spade]

Well, I heard.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Don't look upset, Mr. Spade. Fanny. Fanny told me that you were a detective waiting for.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, she's a swell kid.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yeah. Yeah, Fanny's impetuous, but a good sort. Yeah. Keeps the right people out and lets the wrong ones in. Fine judge of character.

[Sam Spade]

No, you're generous, sir.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I'm about to have a cup of tea. Will you join me?

[Sam Spade]

Be delighted.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I'll just take the water out of the tap. It's hot enough.

[Sam Spade]

Well, Gentle Joe, I'm. I'm here on a rather painful mission.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Now, in goes the tea.

[Sam Spade]

Five Dollar Frankie thinks you caged him out of fifteen hundred dollars.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

And now for the water.

[Sam Spade]

And two tough friends of his are looking for your scout.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yeah. There we are. Now, we'll just let that steep a while and we'll have us a pickup.

[Sam Spade]

Did you hear anything I said?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Of course, Mr. Spence.

[Sam Spade]

Of course. Every word.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I know why you're here. Those men are worried about their money. But next time you see them, you tell them not to worry.

[Sam Spade]

Well, they said this sure thing of yours was going to return. 20 to 1 odds. That's a lot of money.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Oh, it will, it will. All of that. Maybe even many times more. Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

Yes, it's a sure thing. You mean the race hasn't been run off yet?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yeah. There we are. Now, I think the tea should be ready. Well, now, this is yours.

[Sam Spade]

Thank you.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

And this is mine. Ah. Haddajiling flowering pico. There's no finer tea.

[Sam Spade]

Has an almond flavor.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yes, it's peculiar to the region. Especially pronounced in last year's crop.

[Sam Spade]

Yes. Well, then, shall we get back to business?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yes. Now, you tell those gentlemen that they have no need to fret about their money. It'll be returned to them many times over. Many, many times over. Are you feeling all right, Mr. Spade?

[Sam Spade]

Groggy.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

They'll look back on this investment with considerable pleasure and pride.

[Sam Spade]

I don't know what.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

And someday they'll be able to say that they.

[Sam Spade]

Stupid Sam. Nobody had to give me a saliva test to guess what happened. That nice, sweet, gentle old man had doped me right up to the ears. I tried to stand up and my legs were like two wet pieces of spaghetti, and I went down. Gentle Joel went right on talking and smiling until everything was nothing. When I came to, Joe was gone and so was my faith in horse people. Fanny had made herself scarce too, and I stumbled alone out into the daylight for resuscitation. It took walking, coffee, whiskey and a bowl of raspberries to bring me around. I eventually found a safe haven in my own office.

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[Sam Spade]

Sam Spade Detective Agency. Mr. Hangover.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Mr. Spade, this is Gentle Joe.

[Sam Spade]

What? Listen, you.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I know. I know how upset you must be over my little deception. It was all to a good purpose, Mr. Spade. You see, I had to get out of there in a hurry with the minimum of discussion.

[Sam Spade]

I seem to remember you were hustled out of the racing game for doping a few three year olds.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Well, that's what some people in official circles felt. But Mr. Spade, I want to apologize to you and tell you that I will be able to explain everything to your satisfaction.

[Sam Spade]

With it, no matter. Help.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Get away.

[Sam Spade]

Hello? Hello?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Hello?

[Sam Spade]

Hello? Somebody put the phone back on the hook. So I hung up and dialed a friend at the telephone exchange. She quickly placed the number. The call came from the Sunset Stables out near Bay Meadows. I dialed back, but nobody answered. So I beat it out there. It was dark, and the only person I could rouse was a young stable boy. Yeah, what do you want? My name's Spade. A guy named General Joe was calling me from here, and something happened to him. Gentle Joe Higgins? That's what I said. Oh, I haven't seen him in two or three years. Now, look. Don't give me that. He called from here. Now, where is he?

[Landlady]

I'll look.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Peter, will you?

[Sam Spade]

Before I scream for the cops? All right, I'll look myself. Oh, I say, you can't now.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

No.

[Sam Spade]

But I did. There were two phones inside the stable, both hanging on posts. The second one had the number the phone company had given me. And although someone had tried to cover it up with sawdust, on the floor under the phone were three tea bags. And somebody had done a lot of bleeding. Looked like Gentle Joe's parlay had run out.

[Narrator]

You are listening to the weekly adventure of radio's most famous detective, Sam Spade. Three chimes mean good Times on NBC. There's music and mystery on NBC every Saturday night. For Music Tomorrow, your hit parade brings you the top tunes in the land, as selected by you and presented by Raymond Scott's orchestras, Nookie Lanson and Eileen Wilson. For Mystery Tomorrow, Herbert Marshall stars as the man called. Hear him tomorrow Night. And now back to the sure Thing caper, tonight's adventure with Sam Spade.

[Sam Spade]

I colored the stable boy and questioned him about the blood under the phone and about what could have happened to Gentle Joe Higgins. Nothing. Just wouldn't talk. And he was too small to beat up. So I went looking for the stable manager. He lived in a small white house behind the exercise ring. He wasn't too happy at being awakened, but when I explained things, he came down to the stable with me. I can't understand it, Mr. Spade. General Joe Higgins hasn't been around here for at least two years. That's what the boy told me, you see, for doping a horse once, he can't come near a track or a stable. We let him hang around here, the racing commissioner, to find us. Well, he called from here and something happened to him. The number the phone company gave me matches up with one of your phones. With a lot of blood on the floor, too. Here we are. Now, which phone was it that one. All right, let's look at it. This is the phone and here is a. Wait a minute. Come in here. You. Now tell Mr. Kemp here what was on the floor when I came in. Nothing. Nothing, but sort of. I tell you, there was blood there. No, no, honest, nothing. Mr. Spade, this boy's been with me for five years. He's perfectly reliable. But so am I.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Well, what do you think happened?

[Sam Spade]

I think somebody used this old man for a punching bag.

[Narrator]

Maybe you'd better go home and sleep.

[Sam Spade]

On it, Mr. Spade. We'll talk about it tomorrow. Don't humor me.

[Narrator]

Make this kid talk, Mr. Kemp.

[Sam Spade]

This guy's tappy. Danny. Are you certain there was no blood.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Or no gentle Joe?

[Sam Spade]

Mr. Kemp? I'd swear on my father's grave if necessary. You see, Mr. Spade, I calmed down in a little while and searched the place myself. I came up with exactly nothing but an attack of hay fever and a horsey. And I suddenly wondered why I cared about Gentle Joe at all after what he'd done to me. So I went home and called. $5. Frankie.

[Frankie]

You say you have convice with Gentle Joe?

[Sam Spade]

Twice. And both under rather trying circumstances. Frankie. Once I was doped, and once something happened to him.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Uh huh.

[Frankie]

I take it he did not heed the message I employed you to convey.

[Sam Spade]

So far he hasn't heeded anything.

[Frankie]

Then he is without a doubt in considerable trouble.

[Sam Spade]

I would say so.

[Frankie]

It seems that my business associates, Dinosaur, Pirelli and Bones Molten have blown their tops. And for Gentle Joe, with something special in mind. Something like assassination.

[Sam Spade]

I was afraid of that.

[Frankie]

Mayhaps they have already contacted Gentle Joe for an accounting.

[Sam Spade]

Certainly. Mayhaps I think they've already mowed him down.

[Frankie]

And there is nothing further for us to convice about Sam. It is history and it will be recorded thusly.

[Sam Spade]

Well, if you say so.

[Frankie]

And if I might tender a bit of advice, I would say hop into the Simmons Sammy and knock yourself off a few hours at that ever loving forgetfulness. And when you arise, you will have erased from your mind the names of Gentle Joe Higgins and yours truly, Five Dollar Frankie. For some time to come.

[Sam Spade]

I was tired and it seemed smart to take his advice. So I did. I went to bed. It must have been three in the morning when something woke me up. It was a ghost with a big white head tiptoeing into my room. The thought was so absurd that I turned over and started back to sleep. That's when the ghost touched me and I grabbed for him.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Let me go, Mr. Spade. Let me go. It's me, Gentle Joe.

[Sam Spade]

Will I turn on a light?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Of course. I look a little different. The bandages around my head look like a turban.

[Sam Spade]

What happened to you?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I was in Mr. Kemp's house when you were searching the stable.

[Sam Spade]

Stupid me.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I should have come out then, but I didn't. And then I got to thinking I certainly owed you some kind of an explanation. Oh, I found your address and came here.

[Sam Spade]

All right. I'll collect the explanation. Now, first, what was the dope for?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Well, I was afraid you might take me back to Five Dollar Frankie and his friends before I did what I had to do.

[Sam Spade]

Would you care to tell me what that was?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I wanted to buy a horse.

[Sam Spade]

With their money?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yes, with their money.

[Sam Spade]

They thought you were betting it on a horse. A sure thing.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I know, I know, but let me explain. I was thrown off the tracks for doping a horse. I needed money. But that's. That's another story. After five years, I could get my trainer's license back.

[Sam Spade]

Tell me more.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Do you know what it is to love horse flesh and not be able to go near it for five years?

[Sam Spade]

No. The bangtail bug never got me. You can't con guys like Frankie and his thugs out of some money to buy a horse whenever you want one.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

There's more to the story. The horse I doped didn't get into the race, and the jockey had to ride another mount. He was thrown and killed.

[Sam Spade]

Well, it was too bad.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I felt that I'd murdered the man. His name was Sandy Bean.

[Sam Spade]

Sandy Bean? That stable boy at Sunset Stables? Any relative?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

His son.

[Sam Spade]

Ah.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

His wife and son ran out of money and they've had a hard time of it. I've worked as a janitor for the past five years trying to raise enough money to buy them a horse to help make up for what I did.

[Sam Spade]

How much did you save?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Only $1,500. The horse I wanted, a two year old named sure Thing, cost 3,000.

[Sam Spade]

Well, things are beginning to clear up now. How did you figure you could take money from Frankie to blast?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Well, Frankie and his friends made a lot of money off Sandy Bean when he rode. I figured it wouldn't hurt them to pay a little of it back.

[Sam Spade]

I don't think they'd see it that way.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I wasn't stealing the money. I was going to give each of them a 10% of the horse. I didn't dare tell it until after I bought it.

[Sam Spade]

Well, Gentle Joe, maybe they'll see the light, but I doubt it.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I was going to take 10% for training her. Give the other 60 to Mrs. Bean and her son, Danny. He'll make a good jockey. And sure Thing is a great horse. I know, I know. They'll make a lot of money off of it.

[Sam Spade]

It's a noble plan.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Tomorrow my 5 years is up and I wanted to give them the horse Then I see.

[Sam Spade]

Who wrapped you up. When I was talking to you on.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

The phone, Danny was backing a horse into the stable and it got excited, it started kicking and I was in the way.

[Sam Spade]

I thought maybe you'd been done in.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

I know. That's why I came to see you and explain things. Can you do anything to help me?

[Sam Spade]

Well, I. All right, there's no need to wave a gun around here. Get up, you. Gentle Joe, We've been looking for you around and about.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Now, dinosaur. Now, look, we wish to hear from you. Joe, come along.

[Sam Spade]

Look, you're not going to take him out here without a fight.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

We wouldn't mind this at all in as much as we come equipped with a little artillery.

[Sam Spade]

Bones.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Bones, I didn't steal that money.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Shut up.

[Sam Spade]

All right, all right, knock it off.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

You want some of the sand?

[Sam Spade]

Yeah, if you think you can do it. And it turned out they could. I knocked Torelli's gun aside, hit him with a hard left and he didn't go down. I tried a right, then a knee, then a couple of elbows. I was just getting ahead of the game when something hit me across the face and printed coat 45 on my forehead. I know this sounds repetitious, but I went out again.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Honest, I did.

[Sam Spade]

Really. I'm sorry. Appropriately, it was dawn when I woke up, cold and headachy. Of course, I was alone. Gentle Joe Higgins was the victim of a successful snatch and I had an idea what might have happened to her. I dressed and started looking all over town, but I didn't have any luck any. Wasn't until I was eating breakfast and met a police sergeant. I know that. I got a tip.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Morning, Sam.

[Sam Spade]

Hello, Sergeant. What happened to you? I tried the kisser. I didn't know they made those camp dames anymore. Why don't I sit out? Pleasure. We got a homicide this morning. Yeah? Who? Who knows?

[Narrator]

Just an old man.

[Sam Spade]

Found him in the park. Somebody really worked your moving. What do you look like? Oh, 5 10, white hair, old clothes. Probably a bum worthy morgue.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

Guess he's putting a rundown on him now. Well, I'll see you later, Carter. Thanks.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Hey, Sam.

[Narrator]

Haven't finished your breakfast.

[Sam Spade]

They let me in the morgue. And I took a look at the corpse. And once I saw it, I knew just where I had to go. I caught a cab out to the Sunset Stables. The horses were just having a roll oats when I pulled in. And Danny Bean, the stable boy, was there, dressed in his cleanest Levi's. What do you want? Where's the show going to be?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

What show?

[Sam Spade]

Gentle Joe gives you the horse. Isn't this the day?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Okay, so you know.

[Sam Spade]

Gee, I'm sorry about last night, Mr. Spade. I had to keep it a secret. Forget it, forget it. You did the right thing. When's the ceremony?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

In about an hour.

[Landlady]

Right here.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

You want to wait?

[Sam Spade]

Sure, sure. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Of course, I cheated a little. I didn't tell you who it was I saw in the morgue. The truth was, I didn't know it wasn't Gentle Joe Higgins, though. And so I reasoned thusly, if Torelli and Moulton didn't finish him off in the night, he must have gotten out of it somehow. He was a resourceful old man, and I was sure nothing short of death would keep him from presenting Danny with a horse on the day he planned. And I was right. An hour later, he came walking in, leading the prettiest chestnut mare I'd ever seen. And with a smile two feet wide on his face. And behind him, carrying blankets, a saddle and riding colors were. Who else? Five Dollar Frankie, Dinosaur, Torelli and Bone Smoke.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Well, Mrs. Spade, this is a surprise.

[Sam Spade]

It was a pleasant one.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Yeah, this is sure Thing. Oh, isn't she a beauty?

[Sam Spade]

She is indeed. How'd you do it, gentle Joan?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Well, Mr. Spade, I just invited them over to my place to have a cup of tea. You get it?

[Sam Spade]

Yeah. While we was half out, he explained.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

The whole thing to us. I like good Dale and May we can win both ways on the track and at the window. Oh, look at the life of that horse. Just. Just waiting to cross the finish line.

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Sally boy, this is indeed a signal occasion, huh? This is the first time I have ever been this close to a horse and me being a horse player.

[Sam Spade]

And have you talked to her yet?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Why, sure. I am already talking to sure Thing. And explain to her our financial position. She has assured me she will romp home first more times than not.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Well, gentlemen, shall we do what we came here to do?

[Five Dollar Frankie]

Sure. Leave us make the present thing.

[Sam Spade]

Come on, come on, let's get into business.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Give the animal to the kid already.

[Sam Spade]

I agree.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Danny.

[Sam Spade]

Yes, Mr. Higgins?

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Danny, the four of us are giving you this horse sure thing. In memory of your father, the late, great Sandy Bean.

[Sam Spade]

Thank you. Thank you, sir. She's a beauty, isn't she? I feel like I was just born.

[Gentle Joe Higgins]

Rider Wilson. Right up. Well.

[Sam Spade]

And I think he will. Period. End of report.

[Effie]

Oh, dad, it was so beautiful.

[Sam Spade]

A simple, old fashioned type story. If we feel we can use one now and then.

[Effie]

And I'm glad nothing happened to anybody because I just love them all.

[Sam Spade]

Everything considered. F they weren't half bad. Now, how about typing it up?

[Effie]

Oh, I love to.

[Narrator]

Three chimes mean good times on NBC. There's music and fun in the air Tomorrow evening, styled to suit your Saturday night of merriment, Dennis Day brings you songs and comedy in his charming, boyish manner. And then Judy Canova gets together with her frolicsome friends for mountain melody and mayhem. Followed by Grand Ole Opry with singing MC Red Foley in his gang. It's a Saturday night of fun designed for you.

[Effie]

Here it is, Sam, all typed up.

[Sam Spade]

Now, let me see now. You captured $5. Frankie's peculiar style. Perfect. And that wasn't easy.

[Effie]

Oh, Sam, I was just thinking we ought to contribute something along with everybody else to that horse. You know that. Sure Thing.

[Sam Spade]

I probably will, Effie. A few dollars here, a few there. Whenever it's running.

[Effie]

Oh, I didn't mean betting.

[Sam Spade]

Oh.

[Effie]

What I meant is, for example, it's. It's going to need a lot of hay, isn't it?

[Sam Spade]

Bales and bales.

[Effie]

Well, my cousin Frisbee cuts our lawn, I'll have him save the grass and send it to sable.

[Sam Spade]

Effie, you are a noble creature, but I think sure Thing can get along without your little lawn.

[Effie]

Well, I've seen horses wearing stockings. Couldn't I knit a pair?

[Sam Spade]

Two pair. Two pair. But f. Let's not lose our heads. Five dollar. Frankie and his pals will take good care of sure Thing. How about worrying about taking care of me?

[Effie]

Or I think. Yeah, could you use some grass or some socks?

[Sam Spade]

Effie, knock off this horse talk, will you? We're almost at the wire now. People are just champing at the bit for the payoff.

[Effie]

All right, let's finish neck and neck, huh?

[Sam Spade]

Why not? Come here. Sure Thing.

[Sponsor]

Nice man.

[Sam Spade]

Good night, sweetheart.

[Narrator]

The adventures of Sam Spade are produced, edited and directed by William Spears. Sam Spade was played by Stephen Dunn. Loreen Tuttle as Effie. Wally Mayer was Gentle Joe. Script for tonight's adventure by John Michael Hayes. Musical scoring by Lud Gluskin conducted by Robert Armbruster. Join us again next week, same time for another adventure with Sam Spade. The fight against heart disease, the greatest killer in America, goes on with increased intensity. But doctors cannot wage this battle alone. They need your help for the eventual control of heart disease through research, education and community heart programs. Give now to fight heart disease. Send your contribution to Heart H E A R T in care of your nearest post office. Join the magnificent Montague. Then it's Duffy's Tavern on NBC.

[Sponsor]

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