The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Tears of the Night Caper 7/24/1949

Summary

The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Tears of the Night Caper Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Release Date: February 1, 2025
Original Air Date: July 24, 1949
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Produced by: William Spear
Starring: Howard Duff as Sam Spade, Lorene Tuttle as Effie Perrine

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Overview

"The Tears of the Night Caper" is a riveting episode from the legendary private detective series, The Adventures of Sam Spade. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this installment delivers a classic noir narrative filled with deception, murder, and the relentless pursuit of truth by Sam Spade. The story weaves through the murky underbelly of San Francisco’s high society, where a seemingly straightforward jewelry delivery spirals into a deadly game of cat and mouse.

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Plot Summary

Introduction to the Case

The episode opens with Sam Spade (Howard Duff) recovering from an apparent accident in his office, discussing his wounds with Effie Perrine (Lorene Tuttle). Spade's attempts at Latin add a layer of dark humor and tension to the scene.

Sam Spade [00:55]: "No, I asked you first, Sam. Now you're making sense."
Effie Perrine [00:55]: "What?"

The Assignment

Spade receives a mysterious assignment from Mamie Gagan, who presents him with a check and a diamond necklace. He learns that the necklace, "The Tears of Night," was lost by Daphne Arlington at a roulette table and is to be delivered back to her.

Mamie Gagan [04:21]: "You Spade?"
Sam Spade [04:21]: "I am he. Sit down, please. Don't you believe me?"

The Journey to Burlingame

Accompanied by Mamie, Spade drives to a secluded colonial mansion guarded by ineffectual patrolmen. Their interaction sets the tone for the tension-filled investigation.

Sam Spade [06:17]: "Oh, ain't as good as running beer, but them days are gone."
Mamie Gagan [04:35]: "Why are we gonna see Johnny?"

Encounter with Hannibal Mortuous

At the White Hotel on Turk Street, Spade meets Hannibal Mortuous, a cadaverous jeweler with a sinister presence. Mortuous examines the necklace, revealing his expertise and hinting at deeper motives.

Hannibal Mortuous [10:05]: "Absolute Marcus, the most respected name in diamonds..."
Sam Spade [10:46]: "I just want you to take a look at this."

Unraveling the Mystery

As Spade delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit involving Johnny McCall, who orchestrated the delivery of the necklace. Mortuous's role and the true value of the necklace come into focus, leading to a series of confrontations and revelations.

Hannibal Mortuous [12:07]: "When an artist creates a dazzling thing of beauty such as this..."
Sam Spade [12:22]: "How much money?"

The Climactic Confrontation

The tension culminates in a dramatic showdown where Mortuous and his accomplices attempt to eliminate Spade. Amidst gunfire and quick thinking, Spade outmaneuvers his adversaries, showcasing his characteristic grit and intelligence.

Sam Spade [25:06]: "What'd I tell you? He's a dummy."
Hannibal Mortuous [22:24]: "Such an ingenious method of protecting the tears of night..."

Resolution

In the end, Spade confronts Mortuous, revealing the triple-cross and securing the necklace. The episode closes with Spade reflecting on the night's events, reinforcing his role as an unyielding detective in a world rife with corruption and betrayal.

Sam Spade [24:53]: "They'll pick you up before you get to the airport."
Hannibal Mortuous [24:31]: "I don't intend to get away with it."

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Character Dynamics

• Sam Spade: The quintessential hard-boiled detective, Spade embodies resilience and sharp intellect. His interactions with Effie Perrine and the antagonists display his ability to navigate complex and perilous situations with calm determination.

• Effie Perrine: Serving as Spade’s loyal secretary, Effie provides both support and comic relief. Her interactions with Spade add depth to his character, highlighting his vulnerabilities despite his tough exterior.

Effie Perrine [01:15]: "You mean he's dead?"
Sam Spade [03:08]: "One thing at a time, sweetheart."

• Hannibal Mortuous: The primary antagonist, Mortuous is a master jeweler with a dark agenda. His calm demeanor juxtaposed with lethal intent makes him a formidable foe for Spade.

Hannibal Mortuous [10:29]: "Deplorable, deplorable conduct on her part."
Sam Spade [12:31]: "Well, I saw another one just like it tonight."

• Mamie Gagan: A femme fatale archetype, Mamie’s involvement adds layers of intrigue and betrayal to the plot. Her loyalty to Mortuous complicates Spade’s mission, culminating in high-stakes conflict.

Mamie Gagan [25:07]: "I thought I'd find you here waiting for the mail."

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Themes and Insights

• Deception and Trust: The narrative explores the thin line between allies and adversaries. Spade's journey is riddled with deceit, forcing him to discern truth from manipulation.

• Morality and Survival: Spade operates in a morally grey world where survival often demands ethical compromises. His unwavering commitment to justice underscores the theme of personal integrity.

• The Corrupting Influence of Greed: The coveted "Tears of Night" symbolizes the destructive power of greed, driving characters to commit heinous acts in pursuit of wealth and power.

Hannibal Mortuous [24:20]: "The Tears of Night are worth five times that. I'm afraid I misinformed you as to their value."

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sam Spade on Professionalism:

  Sam Spade [03:19]: "Sure, sure, sure."

• Effie Perrine’s Loyalty:

  Effie Perrine [08:42]: "Jewelry? That would be mortuous."

• Mortuous on Artistry:

  Hannibal Mortuous [12:07]: "When an artist creates a dazzling thing of beauty such as this..."

• Sam Spade’s Determination:

  Sam Spade [13:43]: "There's the paper. Candy, you want to ask him for a match?"

• Climactic Threat:

  Hannibal Mortuous [22:24]: "Such an ingenious method of protecting the tears of night."

• Final Confrontation:

  Sam Spade [24:37]: "They'll pick you up before you get to the airport."

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Production and Direction

Produced and directed by William Spear, the episode boasts stellar performances, particularly Howard Duff’s portrayal of Sam Spade, which captures the essence of the character's toughness and intelligence. The dialogue, written by Bob Tolman and Gil Dowd, is sharp and engaging, driving the suspenseful narrative forward. Musical direction by Luduskin, with a score composed by Renee and Pierre Garagag, enhances the noir atmosphere, immersing listeners in the dark, gritty world of Sam Spade.

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Conclusion

"The Tears of the Night Caper" stands as a testament to the enduring allure of old-time radio detective dramas. Through masterful storytelling, complex characters, and thematic depth, the episode offers listeners a captivating journey into the shadowy realms of crime and investigation. Sam Spade's relentless pursuit of the truth amidst layers of deception cements his legacy as one of radio's greatest detectives, continuing to enchant audiences decades after its original airing.

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Join Us Next Sunday:
Stay tuned for another thrilling adventure with Sam Spade, where author Dashiell Hammett and producer William Spear bring more mysteries and excitement to your airwaves.

Transcript

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[Dashiell Hammett]

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.

[Dashiell Hammett]

You for [e-mail].

[Effie Perrine]

Sam's Bay Detective Agency.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Fum est Mr. Who? Fanatum Est. It is finished.

[Effie Perrine]

Latin oh, Sam.

[Dashiell Hammett]

What's left of me. Sweetheart, where are you?

[Effie Perrine]

What happened? Who did it here?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Everything. And what?

[Effie Perrine]

What?

[Dashiell Hammett]

No, I asked you first, Sam. Now you're making sense.

[Effie Perrine]

Well, did that Mr. Mortuous get in touch with you?

[Dashiell Hammett]

The Mortuous Neil Ne bonum.

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, Sam, stop it.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Second year Latin F. Speak well of the dead.

[Effie Perrine]

You mean he's dead?

[Dashiell Hammett]

If you have tears, prepare to shed them now. This one ends up worse than Rigoletto. Have your extra hack of ready. Get some organ music on the radio and I'll be down to dictate my report on the tears of nightkeeper.

Dasho.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hammets, America's leading detective fiction writer and creator of Sam Spade, the Hard boiled Private Eye, and William Spear, radio's outstanding producer director of mystery and crime drama, join their talents to make your hair stand on end with the Adventures of Sam Spade presented by the makers of wild Root Cream Cream Oil for the hair. You know, just a little wild root cream oil in your hair can mean a world of improvement in your general appearance. Just try it and see. See how Wild Root Cream Oil hair tonic grooms your hair neatly and naturally, relieves dryness and removes loose dandruff. Yes, you'll be glad to discover that just a few drops of wild root cream oil make a big difference. So if you've never tried it before, get the 25 cent get acquainted size and ask for it by name. Wild Root Cream Oil Hair tonic Again and again, the choice of men and women and children too. And now, with Howard Duff starring as Spade, Wild root brings to the air the greatest private detective of them all in the Adventures of Sam Spade.

[Effie Perrine]

Sam. Oh, Sam. Your face. What happened to it?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Many, many things.

[Effie Perrine]

F. But it's also kind of raw. Oh, Sam.

[Dashiell Hammett]

In time, Effie, my wounds will heal.

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, I'll bet that that that Mamie Gagan had something to do with it. I could tell when she came in.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Here that she was going to be mortuous. Neo N bonum.

[Effie Perrine]

Huh?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Latin. Speak well of the dead, remember?

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, yeah.

[Dashiell Hammett]

One thing at a time, sweetheart. Let's get this over with. I want to find a docket.

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, you're so brave there. Carrying on in the face of. Of your face.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Sure, sure, sure.

[Effie Perrine]

You won't be satisfied until you just. Just die for your profession.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Well, if I do. Kneel. Nisi bonum Etty Neil. Nisi bonum.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

That means Latin.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Means you have bony knees. Date, July 24, 1949. To Ms. Daphne Arlington from Samuel Spade, San Francisco license number 596. Subject, the tears of Night. Dear Daphne, I hope this will clear up a few things in your mind. I hope it'll let you know how you got where you are and what happened to put you there. It all has an illogical beginning, middle and end. At three yesterday afternoon, my loyal secretary and confidant, Ms. Effie Perrine, a doll who has been rehearsing a cockney play for television, flung open my office door.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

And said, miss Miami, guys.

[Effie Perrine]

And to see Miss.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I said k. Miss Mamie Gagan. Left everything the name implied from her lately blonded head or her genuine alligator shoes, I might add. She weighed in at approximately 160 and was in very good condition.

[Mamie Gagan]

You Spade?

[Dashiell Hammett]

I am he. Sit down, please. Don't you believe me?

[Mamie Gagan]

I hate gum shoes. They all stink.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Something in your background, perhaps? As a girl, I'm just assuming that you were one.

[Effie Perrine]

All gum shoes are nosy.

[Mamie Gagan]

They talk too much. That's why I don't like them here.

[Dashiell Hammett]

For me?

[Mamie Gagan]

Who else, stupid?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Oh, well, it says, pay to the order of Samuel Spade. $100. Signed Manny Gagan. Cosign Johnny McCall. All right. Is it good?

[Mamie Gagan]

You wise guy or something? Sure it's good. I'm the treasurer.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Get your hat in this weather.

[Mamie Gagan]

We gonna go see Johnny McCall? Yeah.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Why are we gonna see Johnny?

[Mamie Gagan]

Johnny wants you should do something for him.

[Dashiell Hammett]

What does Johnny want I should do for him?

[Podbean Announcer]

Come on, Spade.

[Mamie Gagan]

What's the matter with you? He'll tell you.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I'd just love to hear you talk, ma'am, that's all.

[Mamie Gagan]

All this gas ain't getting us nowhere. The boss is waiting. Gumshoes.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yes, ma'am. Well, maybe we do, but ours is a lonely profession. Mamie led me to a large Cadillac parked in a no parking zone. She tore the ticket up and ate it. We got in and charged through traffic towards Burlingame about a half a mile this side of the main highway, we turned off to the left and pretty soon we were winding up a private road to a fine old colonial mansion. Two or three private patrolmen were guarding the entrance. They all needed shaves. They kind of nodded as we went up to the front door. Naturally enough, it didn't but a peep shot at dead.

Yeah.

[Mamie Gagan]

Me feeling it's the private keeper the boss wants to see. Open up.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Okay.

How are you feeling, mister? Feeling.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Screw. Screw.

[Dashiell Hammett]

All kinds of folks around this way.

[Mamie Gagan]

Spade. Mamie, I got your peepers okay inside. Here he is, Johnny. Flat feet and all. His name Spade.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I know.

Oh, I know. I picked him myself. Go on, beat it.

[Mamie Gagan]

I hate gum shoes, Boo.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I don't mind, Mamie. She's kind of bitter.

Yes, she is.

We did a lousy job on her hair last time. It's all streaky.

Yeah, I noticed. Nice place, Johnny. Nice place. How's the gross?

Oh, ain't as good as running beer, but them days are gone. I do all right. Two craft tables, two faro games, a little roulette in the living room. But I have to be careful.

Yeah, you seem to have plenty of muscle outside to keep it safe and comfy.

Punks, all of them. But the best I can get nowadays. No good gunsels left. Guess they all got married and settled down or something.

All right, Johnny. It's cool and it's nice out here. You make a living. And I got a check for $100. Why?

Well, in my line, I don't generally have much use for a private eye. I don't generally like them, neither does Mamie. But I can use one right now. Ever see this before? No. Well, it's a little bit of necklace.

Necklace?

Volunteers a night or something. Yeah, and it's worth quite a chunk of giddis. These four diamonds are good stuff. Dame named Daphne Arlington left it here a week ago when she went in for a plunge at the roulette table. She left it for a standby till she raised the cash. Oh, screwy dame. You know, a widow with a lot of money. Boyfriend named Lenny Epich. He paints her something. Well, she sent me a check today for the 5G she lost. And I just want you to take this thing back to her.

That all?

Yeah, that's all I got. My doe, she gets a necklace. You're a licensed bonded investigator. Insured safe with you. I couldn't trust any of my punks with it. And I don't like to be seen in public. So you just take it back. It's all very simple.

Now that you've told me how simple it is, suppose you give me the unexpicated sequel. Did her check bounce all right?

You want a drink? There wasn't any check, Sam. She called me a couple hours ago and said if I didn't have this thing back to her by tonight, she'd call a load of cops and come out here and tear the joint apart.

Not such a screwy damn at that. You're stuck.

You telling me? If she comes with cop, I'm closed for season. I'm getting old.

Oh, you're not old, son.

Ah, Feely was running the table. I didn't know he'd taken this thing for security until we counted up.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Stupid feeling I should have pushed his.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Mush in or something. Letting a dame like that make us a setup.

Well, maybe you'll do better next time.

Oh, ain't gonna be no next time, Spade. Now, here's her address. Here's the ice. Just take it to her and I'll chalk it up to experience.

You better get yourself a new boy at that table, Johnny.

You telling me? You telling me.

Well, by.

[Effie Perrine]

Lenny, I thought you'd never get here. The performance begins at 8:30 and you.

[Mamie Gagan]

Know how the traffic is.

[Effie Perrine]

And if we're going to have a bite to eat. You aren't. Lenny. Where's Lenny?

[Dashiell Hammett]

I don't know, Ms. Arlene. And I'm supposed to deliver some jewelry.

[Effie Perrine]

Jewelry? That would be mortuous. Mortuous?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Mortuous, yes, but I.

[Effie Perrine]

What are you looking at?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Your throat.

[Effie Perrine]

Really? Well, really, mister. Mister. Mr. Spade.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Sam Spade.

[Effie Perrine]

Well, really, Mr. Spade, I'm only waiting for Lenny to get here so we can make the first curtain of streetcar and we're going to be late if he doesn't get here. You can understand that, Mr. Spade, you're.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Gonna be a little early. Streetcar doesn't open until Monday already and.

[Effie Perrine]

He hasn't shown up. Well, good night, Mr. Spade.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Hey. The white ermine cape you were wearing and the black strapless thing needed a touch, but you had it. A diamond necklace, in fact, the tears of night. The same one I had in my pocket. Daphne was hanging around your lovely neck. I rebuzzed your buzzer and knocked on your door for quite a while until it was quite evident that you were not going to open up under the hallway light. I snapped over the necklace case. Mortuous, you had said. And mortuous was what it said stamped inside the case. A gloomy word with a gloomy address. The White Hotel on Turk Street.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

At your service, sir.

[Dashiell Hammett]

If ever A man had the look of death. It was this one who had its name. He was older than old, cadaverous and in his skull like head. His eyes were white. He was wearing a flannel night shirt.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

You find me a bit indisposed, Mr. Spaden? The clerk at the desk said it was a matter of jewelry. Therefore, Hannibal Mortuous is at your service. Now then, sir, what is so urgent?

[Dashiell Hammett]

I came to ask you about a diamond necklace. I found your name stamp on the inside here.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Absolute Marcus, the most respected name in diamonds, as well as all the lapidary arts, most respected fine jewels. And the name Mortuous is synonymous the world over. I am the last of four sons. But continue, Mr. Spade.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Well, I just want you to take a look at this.

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[Hannibal Mortuous]

And how do you come in possession of the Tears of Night, sir?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Well, a man named Johnny McCall, who runs a gambling club, hired me to deliver it to a lady named Daphne Arlington. She lost it at the roulette table. She left it there until she could raise the cash.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Deplorable, deplorable conduct on her part. Daphne Arlington. Most indiscreet young lady, to be sure. To be sure. I recall my interview with her when her late husband Sidney ordered this necklace. A lovely body propelled by a ridiculous mind. For shame. Such conduct. A gambling house. The Tears of Night. A pond.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Well, this is real, Anne.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

It isn't phony, Mr. Spades, I am a gemologist. The House of Mortuous. Of course it's real.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Thank you. Godlike.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

When an artist creates a dazzling thing of beauty such as this, would he be so unlikely as to forget the time, the patience, the agony of his creation? See how each stone is carefully mounted to capture every single pinpoint of light. An incomparable masterpiece. An incubator.

[Podbean Announcer]

Money.

[Dashiell Hammett]

How much money?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

A wholesale market, about 10,000. He paid 25, but he had it, as I say, incomparable.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yeah, yeah. Well, I saw another one just like it tonight.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Ridiculous. The finest workman, at best could only create a crude resemblance. This kind of work demands an artist, sir. An artist? But tell me Latin in Angus Elba.

[Dashiell Hammett]

My second year Latin escapes me.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Sneak in the grass. Something wrong?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Something wrong here. You.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

You are concerned for the safety of this piece? I have a small safe in my room. You may have the key, if you care.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I'll take it with me. Thank you, Mr. Mortuous.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

My pleasure, Mr. Spain. Omnia mortuis bonum vocates. All speak well of mortuus a Panzer. Good evening.

[Dashiell Hammett]

In the dismal lobby of the White Hotel, I asked the night clerk for some wrapping paper and 20 cents worth of stamps. It was a hunch. Plus the fact that outside on the street I spotted two of Johnny McCall's unshaved gorillas. They were looking up at the front of the building. Mr. Mortuous must have switched off his light or something because their eyes suddenly dropped and I saw them separate, one on each side of the front door. With shoulders carefully hunched, I stepped out into the lonesome night. I hoped they would think I was carrying my.38, which I was not. They didn't.

There's the paper. Candy, you want to ask him for a match? Candy's near sighted.

That's too bad. This him?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Ernest got the match.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Spades are close.

Candy, ask if you got a match. He's a dummy.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Candy.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Don't answer.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Got a match? Spade.

[Dashiell Hammett]

What'd I tell you? He's a dummy.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

He don't look like no dummy.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Take your hands off.

He's a dummy, all right. Ain't you, Spade?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

See?

[Dashiell Hammett]

He's a dummy, Candy. I told him about you being near sighted and he wouldn't answer.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

He don't talk.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Go on, smart boy, tell him. Tell Candy how sorry you are about him being near sighted. I told you he was a dummy, Candy. All private eyes like you. Candy asks you a question. He wants to know if all private eyes is like you.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

I don't like no dummy.

[Dashiell Hammett]

We ask questions and he ain't told us nothing. That makes him a dummy.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Maybe we find out something if we went through his pocket.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yeah, even a dummy's got pockets.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Ain't that right, dummy?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Hurl them, Candy.

All right, boys, you played the scene real good now. See what I can do for you.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Hey, you thought.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yeah.

Make him talk again, Candy. Make him talk. Bigger, Candy. Bigger. Bigger.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

He talks real nice, but he don't say much. Think maybe he's tough, ain't it?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yeah, maybe. Hold him up.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

See, he ain't so tough.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Of no. I wasn't. And I didn't feel like talking on that quiet little street where the only noise was my face pounding on their fists. I didn't have the necklace anymore. But they had to find out the hard way. The hard way for me.

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[Dashiell Hammett]

I remember trying to wake up a couple of times. I was dreaming that we were driving along in a giant Cadillac. Big Mamie was sitting on my lap. She was eating a diamond necklace and spitting out cherry pits which Mr. Mortuous grabbed, looked at through his jeweler's glass and then tossed into a roulette wheel. Then we had a blowout and the whole car vanished with everybody screaming, demortuous. The mortuous. Somewhere around 7 in the a.m. i began to get a feeling. Several failings and all of them hurt. I had been dumped in the grass in a fairly nice neighborhood. In your neighborhood, as a matter of fact, Daphne. And five minutes later I was climbing the steps to your apartment. I thought maybe you'd let me wash my face in your bathroom. Also. You seemed the logical one to question since nothing else made sense. You were sitting in a large chair. The drapes were drawn, the drape door was slightly open and only the light from the hall seeped in. You had the phone on your lap. The receiver was off. My guess was right. You were looking at nothing.

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, Mr. Spade, it's you who came back. You've been in an accident.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I don't think you'll need this.

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, well, then, Mr. Spade. Well, then, I suppose you've met some people tonight who know a great deal about me.

[Dashiell Hammett]

A gambler, a jeweler.

[Effie Perrine]

Did they tell you about Lenny Effich?

[Dashiell Hammett]

No.

[Effie Perrine]

He's really a dear, Mr. Spade. Quite the nicest boy I've met since Sidney was killed in that horrible automobile accident. Sidney and I had so many things together. I do think he enjoyed being alive with me. I mean, I cried when Sydney was killed. I really did.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I cried, Miss Darlington.

[Effie Perrine]

I didn't know what to do. I cried. That was three years ago. But now I have Lenny. He's really a dear. I do think that Lenny will be a very prominent artist someday. I. I do. Lenny asked me to marry him tonight.

[Dashiell Hammett]

He did?

[Effie Perrine]

I. I been very lonely since Sydney died. Lenny isn't interested in my money. Lenny has money of his own. What? My tongue adjusted to my mouth. Did that ever happen to you, Mr. Spade?

[Dashiell Hammett]

Sometimes, yes.

[Effie Perrine]

Perhaps I should see a correctionist. I'm glad you came by again. I didn't know you were a detective the first time.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Who told you?

[Effie Perrine]

Why, Mr. McCall. I really can't understand. Monique. I know it must be strange to you. Look at them. But some people live for it. Some people die.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Please. Please, Miss Nightingale. We can't get anything done.

[Effie Perrine]

Look.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Look.

[Effie Perrine]

They. They do look so funny. Very funny. I've seen them count money, so much money. And I really believe that that is all I live for.

[Dashiell Hammett]

You were pointing at something across the darkened room. Took me 10 seconds to find the light switch stretched out on your floor. They looked funny, all right. Candy and Earnest, both of them as dead as you can get.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Hello, darling.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Darling.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Darling, I've been waiting all night. I knew you'd telephone and give me your answer. I knew you'd marry.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Your name Lenny Effich?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Why, yes, But I was expecting.

[Dashiell Hammett]

My name's Spade. I'm a private investigator. I'm calling from her apartment, Daphne's. Now, listen, there's been a couple of murders here.

Murders?

She's had quite a jolt. She's gonna need you and all the help she can get to bring her out of it. I've called Homicide and it might be pretty rough for her.

[Podbean Announcer]

I'll be right over.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Bring a doctor.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Right.

[Dashiell Hammett]

And a lawyer. I'm afraid she'll need one of those too.

[Podbean Announcer]

I've got a good one. We'll be there.

[Effie Perrine]

Thanks.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Mr. Spade. He showed up about the same time the crew from Homicide got there. Your fiance's a good guy. He talked fast and urgently. As did the doctor and lawyer he brought with him. And through their combined efforts, you were removed not the police headquarters, but to the private hospital in which you are now a patient. It was obvious from the powder test that you could not have fired the.45 which ended the lives of Candy and Ernest. It was also obvious that the murders had been done elsewhere. But who had done them remain to be seen. I see.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

I've been expecting you.

[Podbean Announcer]

Come in.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Come in. Sir. I've been amusing myself with your chessboard. Sit down. Sit down. You had a hectic night.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yeah. Your boys were pretty rough.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Candy and Earnest. Two men of another world, Mr. Spade. Not our world. Allow me to apologize for their action.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I want more than an apology, Mr. Mortuous. And if that's my gun, and it looks like it, it's got a hair trigger. And if you'll pardon me for saying so, your hands are a little shaky.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

I underestimated you, Spade. Such an ingenious method of protecting the tears of night. Why, sir, by the simple expedient of placing it in an envelope and mailing it to yourself from my hotel lobby you hired as guardians the entire United States Postal Service. Not to mention the armed Forces.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Thanks. What happens now?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

We wait for the mail.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Just tell me where I'm wrong, will you, Mr. Morgellos? McCall wanted me to get caught with it. He didn't know it was real. You'd made a phony for him. Only you found out it wasn't phony when I came to your place. Then there was a double cross.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

If you can bear my vanity, I have invented a new word. Triple cross. It has a ring to it in it.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Oh, including Mamie?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Mamie and her friends have been very valuable to me. But I must necessarily exclude them from sharing the profits.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Mamie knocked off Candy in earnest.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Bettered by the last of the House of Mortuous.

[Dashiell Hammett]

You planted them in Daphne's place.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Mamie and I. A crude touch, I thought, but it had a purpose. I happen to know that Mrs. Arlington has for a long time been on the verge of a nervous breakdown. With two cadavers in her living room, she was very unlikely to discuss a bogus necklace with the police. And I doubt very much if she knew she was wearing the original or the imitation Flighty Girl.

[Dashiell Hammett]

That's the lousiest thing the House of Mortu has ever did. She walked in and found it.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

If you would merely return the real necklace to her. It would have been simple to make an exchange. And none of this would have been necessary.

[Dashiell Hammett]

I know. I know. You just sit here and wait for the mail.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

We wait for the mail.

[Dashiell Hammett]

What about your other playmate?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

I'm afraid I'll be sought for a murder or two or three this night. Mimi?

[Dashiell Hammett]

She got it too?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Yes.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Where are the police going to find her?

[Hannibal Mortuous]

In my hotel room, which I departed hastily once the room clerk had informed me of your ingenious method for protecting the necklace. I shot her. There you were cheap. Cheap, sir? I don't understand.

[Dashiell Hammett]

A $10,000 necklace. It's not quite a king's ransom, you know.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

The Tears of Night are worth five times that. I'm afraid I misinformed you as to their value. I didn't want you to become suspicious.

[Dashiell Hammett]

You are a really horrible, terrifying old man. I suppose you think you'll get away with it.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

I don't intend to get away with it. An old man. Yes, but I intend to spend my remaining years.

[Dashiell Hammett]

They'll pick you up before you get to the airport.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

I doubt that. I shall turn the Tears of Night into cash. And with a well laden purse, I shall guarantee to elude the police over half the world in two years, perhaps three. They'll get me, but I'd have spent the money.

[Dashiell Hammett]

And we have a visitor.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Caution, Spade. I do shoot well. I'm sure I'd tell them to go away. I'll be right beside you. All right. Open.

[Mamie Gagan]

One side, Spade. I got a gun.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Obvious.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Me. Me.

[Mamie Gagan]

I thought I'd find you here waiting for the mail.

[Effie Perrine]

You dirty.

[Mamie Gagan]

You didn't do such a good job on me.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Caution, my dear. I have a gun too.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Everybody but me.

[Mamie Gagan]

I can last long enough to let you have it.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Not so good, my dear. Your loss of blood has made you groggy.

[Mamie Gagan]

Still good enough.

[Dashiell Hammett]

It was almost a photo finish. He kind of leaned into the wall with a pain and amazed look on his face. Then he seem to try to walk.

[Hannibal Mortuous]

Mr. Spade. Mr. Sp I believe I've been shot. I'll need a little assistance. I could. I can't seem to hold my feet, sir. I can't seem to hold my feet. It was an awkward plan. Listen, the. Or if your second year Latin escapes your memory, speak. Well, the dead.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Period and a report.

[Effie Perrine]

Oh, all those people.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Four and all.

[Effie Perrine]

And that poor girl, Daphne. How she must have felt when she fell.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Oh, Sam, that was pretty bad. You.

[Effie Perrine]

You poor darling.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Well, it's about time.

[Effie Perrine]

And you go right home. In fact, I am going to take you home.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Yeah? Then what? Well, you are a registered nurse. Maybe. Well, I go type that up. I am completely well and when you return, we shall Indian wrassle.

[Effie Perrine]

Certainly, sir.

[Podbean Announcer]

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[Effie Perrine]

Oh, really? Good night, Sam.

[Dashiell Hammett]

Good night, sweetheart.

[Podbean Announcer]

The Adventures of Sam Spade, National Hammett's famous private detective are produced and directed by William Spear. Sam Spade is played by Howard Dove. Lorene Tuttle is Effie. The Adventures of Sam Spade are written for radio by Bob Tolman and Gil Dowd. Musical direction by Ludluskin with score composed by Renee and Pierre Garagag. Join us again next Sunday when author Dashiell Hammett and producer William Spear join forces for another adventure with Sam Spade. Brought to you transcribed by Wild Root Cream Oil Again and again, the choice of men and women and children too. This is Dick Joy reminding you to.

[Dick Joy]

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[Podbean Announcer]

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