The Falcon: TCOT Wondering Wife 02/08/1954

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Falcon – “The Case of the Wandering Wife” (02/08/1954)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Wandering Wife
Original Airdate: February 8, 1954
Summary Date: March 5, 2026

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Episode Theme

This episode of "The Falcon" takes listeners through a classic detective story full of jealousy, suspicion, and murder. Centered on Mike Waring, also known as “The Falcon,” the narrative explores the consequences of mistrust within a marriage, a web of shadowy investigations, and ultimately a twist-filled search for the real killer when a jealous husband ends up murdered.

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Key Discussion & Story Points

1. Larry Barker’s Suspicion and the Detective-for-Hire Setup

• Larry Barker, a tough gambler or "bookie", suspects his wife Sheila of infidelity and seeks to hire a private detective, Frank Pulaski, to tail her (01:00–02:40).
• Pulaski refuses Barker’s terms for payment, leading Barker to look elsewhere.

Quote:

"In my business, I only pay off on results."
– Larry Barker (02:20)

2. Sheila Encounters Pulaski and Takes Action

• Pulaski, failing to make money with Larry, tries to pitch his services to Sheila Barker, who is insulted and refuses him outright (02:56–03:40).
• Sheila is warned by Pulaski about her husband's suspicions:

  “If I were you, Sheila, I'd watch my step. Larry's checking up on you.”
  – Frank Pulaski (03:51)

3. Sheila Retains The Falcon

• Sheila approaches Mike Waring (“The Falcon”), seeking help to obtain divorce evidence—not for alimony or revenge, but simply to free herself from Larry, whom she describes as chronically jealous (04:34–06:18).

Quote:

"I just want a divorce. I don't even want alimony."
– Sheila Barker (05:41)

4. Introducing Joyce Crane and Al Farinacci

• Al Farinacci, another private investigator, delivers “evidence” to Larry, but it's revealed Sheila visited The Falcon for divorce—not for an affair (07:00–07:46).
• Joyce Crane, Larry’s secretary and long-suffering paramour, is drawn into the narrative, lamenting her time with Larry and expressing bitterness over his devotion to Sheila (07:48–08:41).

5. The Murder and Falcon’s Predicament

• Larry confronts Waring, accuses him of an affair with Sheila, and assaults him. Waring is later found knocked out; soon after, Larry is discovered murdered (08:43–11:10).
• Police Sergeant Sidney Corbett suspects The Falcon himself, given the altercation, but is not fully convinced:

  "When you found me, I was unconscious. How do I know you weren't faking?"
  – Sgt. Corbett (11:54)

6. Theories and Suspects Emerge

• Waring argues that Sheila had no motive to murder, pointing instead to Larry’s own infidelity, suggesting that the "other woman" (potentially Joyce) is a logical suspect (12:24–13:28).

7. Pulaski’s Scheming and Knowledge

• Pulaski attempts blackmail, seeking money for “information” about Larry’s affairs, and ultimately tips Falcon to Joyce Crane as Larry’s lover (14:03–16:46).

  "For 500 grams, I'd be willing to...forget it."
  – Frank Pulaski (15:17)

8. Falcon Investigates Joyce & Is Ambushed

• Waring confronts Joyce at her apartment, indicating he knows about her personal relationship with Larry. Joyce is defensive and then arranges for Waring to be ambushed by her associates, Wally Ford and Tony Gilman (17:35–19:50).

9. Police Interrogation and Exposing the Truth

• Waring, rescued by the police from the goons, persuades Sgt. Corbett to focus on Joyce. At Joyce’s apartment, Waring lays out a psychological motive: Joyce, after nine years of waiting for Larry to leave Sheila, realized it would never happen and killed him (22:00–23:35).
• Waring reveals she slipped up by knowing details only Larry could have learned from Waring before their fateful altercation, proof that Joyce lied (23:29–end).

Quote:

"You killed Larry Barker. Yes. You were in love with him. ... When you finally woke up to the fact he was killing you, that was it."
– Mike Waring (23:44–23:59)

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• Witty exchange as Sheila asserts her independence:

  “You keep your information, and I'll keep my money.” – Sheila Barker (03:35)

• Sheila’s weariness of Larry:

  “He's killed everything I ever felt for him.” – Sheila Barker (06:07)

• Falcon’s sarcasm under pressure:

  “Who’s going to make me? Me.” – Larry Barker and Mike Waring (09:15)

• Joyce’s heartbreak and bitterness:

  “You think in nine years I would have gotten smarter?” – Joyce Crane (08:05)

• Revealing Joyce’s true motive:

  “You really want to see her burned, don't you? ... Bloodthirsty little girl, ain't she?” – Mike Waring (23:32–23:35)

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Important Segment Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment/Event | |-----------|----------------------------------------------------| | 01:00 | Larry Barker tries to hire Pulaski | | 03:51 | Pulaski warns Sheila of Larry’s suspicions | | 04:34 | Sheila meets Mike Waring (The Falcon) | | 07:00 | Farinacci tells Larry of Sheila’s meeting with Mike | | 08:43 | Larry confronts and assaults Waring | | 11:54 | Sgt. Corbett questions Waring about murder | | 14:03 | Pulaski tries blackmail, reveals Joyce’s role | | 17:35 | Falcon confronts Joyce; ambush follows | | 22:00 | Police and Waring confront Joyce, final reveal | | 23:44 | Joyce’s motive and guilt exposed by Waring |

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Tone and Style

• Snappy, Wisecracking Dialogue: The episode is loaded with quick-witted retorts—typical of “hard-boiled” detective fiction.
• Bittersweet and Sardonic: Characters express weariness, longing, and resentment, particularly Sheila and Joyce.
• Crisp Pacing: The story moves quickly from suspicion to crime to the unmasking of the killer.

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Conclusion

“The Case of the Wandering Wife” is a tightly woven tale that explores jealousy, betrayal, and the often-misplaced nature of suspicion. The Falcon—through wit, persistence, and an understanding of human nature—uncovers the real story behind Larry Barker’s murder: not the obvious jealous spouse, but the long-suffering “other woman” who could take no more. As always, the Golden Age radio drama delivers sharp dialogue, turns of fate, and a satisfying conclusion for classic detective fans.

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Transcript

[A]

Safeway and Albertsons have made saving easier than ever with great savings on family favorites this week. 16 ounce sweet strawberries are two for $5 member price. And don't miss the incredible deal on Signature Select. Boneless skinless chicken breast value packs for $2.97 per pound limit. One plus medium avocados or mangoes are five for $5 member price. Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. These deals won't last. Visit Safeway or albertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[B]

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] and now we invite you to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon as Mike Waring solves the case of the Wandering Wife. There's one thing you learn working as a private detective. If you keep your eyes open, you're bound to reach a goal. The case in point. I give you Larry Barker. Larry is the rugged looking boy making his way down the fourth floor corridor of the Harris Building. Right now he's looking for trouble. When he stops in front of room 419, the odds are 20 to 1 they'll find him. Come. Yup. I'm looking for Frank Pulaski. Well, if you don't find him, it ain't cause you don't drive the right places. You Pulaski? That's right. I'm Larry Barker.

[C]

The bookie.

[B]

I don't think we have to go into that. Well, whatever you say, Mr. Barker. Sit down. Thanks. What can I do you for? It remains to be seen. Someone told me you were one of the best private detectives around. Well, naturally. I ain't gonna deny it. I will soon find out. Take a look at this picture. Okay. Got that? That happens to be my wife. That's even better. I don't like those kind of jokes, Pulaski. Sorry. Think you could watch it for me? Well, I don't know why not? Her first name's Sheila. Sheila? Yeah. I want her followed day and night. I want to know everyone she sees. But everyone. Can you handle it? Well, now, let's see if we understand each other, Mr. Barker. You suspect your wife's running around? Did I say that? Why else would you want to sick a tail on her? That's none of your business. Now, either you want the job or you don't. Well, it's gonna run into a lot of dough. So? So how about in advance? No dice. Well, for a Job like this, I'll have to put on two extra men. I don't care how many you put on. In my business, I only pay off on results. Well, I don' business that way. I do. Well, in that case, we're both wasting time. You got to find yourself another boy. I got to find myself another client. Let's hope we both know where to look.

[C]

Taxi. Taxi.

[B]

Can I help you, honey?

[C]

Taxi.

[B]

You don't seem to be having much luck.

[C]

Maybe I'll do better calling a cop.

[B]

Oh, now, wait a minute, baby. I ain't trying to pick you up.

[C]

Taxi.

[B]

I mean it, Mrs. Parker.

[C]

Look. How did you know my name?

[B]

Well, you'd be surprised what I know about you, Sheila. Maybe you'd like to look at my card.

[C]

Frank Pulaski, Private investigation.

[B]

Your hubby was in to see me yesterday.

[C]

Larry?

[B]

Uh huh.

[C]

What did he want?

[B]

Well, now, this ain't no place to talk. I. I got a brand new Nash around the corner and you can say

[C]

anything you've got to right here.

[B]

Well, it's kind of embarrassing. Sheila. I don't like to be seen taking money from a woman in a public thoroughfare.

[C]

What are you talking about?

[B]

Well, naturally, you can't expect me to divulge this kind of information for free.

[C]

You're absolutely right, Mr. Pulaski. So you keep your information and I'll keep my money.

[B]

Oh, now, wait a minute.

[C]

I'm not interested.

[B]

Well, this really concerns you.

[C]

I doubt it. Taxi.

[B]

Looks like I ain't gonna make a buck from the Barker family. Know how? But I like you better than I do your husband.

[C]

Thanks.

[B]

I mean it. If I were you, Sheila, I'd watch my step. Larry's checking up on you.

[C]

What do you mean?

[B]

Just what I said. As a matter of fact, I did a little checking on you myself.

[C]

Why?

[B]

All right, take it easy. As far as I can learn, you never once stepped out of line. So what's the matter with that husband of yours anyway? He must be out of his mind. You may be right. Well, if I was you, honey, I'd never put up with it.

[C]

Thank you for your advice, Mr. Pulaski. I'll let you know if I take it.

[B]

Just a second. I said just a second. What's the big idea? Oh, hello.

[C]

You must be Mike Waring.

[B]

Well, if you're looking for him, I'd be a fool to deny it. Come on in, angel.

[C]

The name is Barker. Mrs. Barker.

[B]

I don't like to be formal with my clients.

[C]

And what makes you think I'm going to be A client?

[B]

You mean this is a social call? Well, that's even better. Sit down.

[C]

Thank you.

[B]

Cigarette?

[C]

No, thanks.

[B]

Drink and make a great Smirnoff martini.

[C]

What?

[B]

Vodka, you know.

[C]

Oh, well, if you don't mind, Mr. Waring, I'd like to get right down to business.

[B]

All you pretty women are alike. Okay, Sheila. When do you want me to start looking?

[C]

When do I want you to start looking?

[B]

Well, don't you want evidence for a divorce?

[C]

How did you know that?

[B]

Well, you announced yourself as Mrs. Barker. And then I took a look at your left hand. That little white ring of flesh. Told me you were wearing a wedding band until a couple of hours ago.

[C]

That's pretty obvious.

[B]

Always is after someone points it out. What'd your husband do?

[C]

He's a betting commissioner.

[B]

You wouldn't be married to Larry Barker? Yes.

[C]

Well, now, what's that supposed to mean?

[B]

Oh, I'm impressed. I hope you do as well on your next marriage.

[C]

There's not going to be a next marriage. I just want a divorce. I don't even want alimony.

[B]

Why?

[C]

Have you ever been married to a jealous man and not recently? I'm not clowning, Mr. Waring.

[B]

Sorry.

[C]

Larry and I were married six years ago. And ever since the first day he suspected the worst.

[B]

Does he have reason?

[C]

No.

[B]

You know I believe you.

[C]

Thank you.

[B]

Quite alright. But if Larry had no cause to be jealous, why is he?

[C]

I don't know and I don't care. He's killed everything I ever felt for him. He even tried to hire a private detective to keep tabs on me.

[B]

Who?

[C]

Man named Frank Pulaski. That was the final straw.

[B]

I don't blame you. All right, angel. I'll let you know when I come up with something.

[C]

In the last three weeks. Yes, sir, Can I help you?

[B]

Is Larry Barker in?

[C]

Well, he's very busy.

[B]

He can't be that busy. Tell him Al Farinacci is here. What is it, Joyce?

[C]

There's a gentleman to see you, Mr. Barkham. Can't you handle it now? He wants to speak to you personally. His name is Al Farnacci.

[B]

Oh, well, send him right in.

[C]

Please go in.

[B]

Thanks. Where do I go?

[C]

First door to your right.

[B]

Come on in, Panace. Glad to see you, Mr. Barker. What have you got? Plenty. I told you, my outfit delivers the goods. Lucky you didn't get yourself tied up with that Frank Pulaski. What's the story? Just what you thought. Your wife's been seeing some guy on the slide. I knew it. I knew it. She spent practically the whole Afternoon in his apartment. Who is he? Mike Waring. The Falcon? Yep. And you know his rep. I've heard a couple of stories. Well, there you are. It's just a case of putting two and two together. All right, fine. I beat it. What about my check? I'll mail it. Now, look, Mr. Box. What's the matter? Don't you trust me? Well, I'll deal. Just for that, you'll wait. Joyce, show him up. Never mind. I can find my own way.

[C]

What happened?

[B]

Nothing.

[C]

That wasn't the impression I got listening at the door.

[B]

So you were eavesdropping.

[C]

I guess I should be ashamed of myself.

[B]

I got a good mind.

[C]

Sure you have, Larry. Mine's the one that's bad. You think in nine years I would have gotten smarter?

[B]

What are you babbling about?

[C]

Just reminiscing.

[B]

Well, do it on your own time.

[C]

I don't have any time of my own. Every minute belongs to you, remember?

[B]

Are you gonna start that again? Yes.

[C]

I'm entitled to know where I stand. They've been stalling me long enough. Nine years. Nine rotten years. Well, now you've got grounds for a divorce.

[B]

You're crazy.

[C]

I heard what Farinacci said. Sheila's been running around with a Mike Waring.

[B]

Shut up. You didn't actually think I was gonna marry you.

[C]

Yes, I did.

[B]

You stupid little fool. My Sheila's worth a million like you.

[C]

She's no better than I am.

[B]

Asked Waring, you keep your mouth shut. Do you understand? Don't you dare to say a word about her.

[C]

I only hope Mr. Waring is as gallant.

[B]

Don't give it a thought, Joyce. He won't talk. I'll see to that personally. That's about time. Warren. How did you get in here? What difference does it make? Shut the door. I take it that gun is loaded. What do you think? I think I better shut the door. I understand you and my wife had a nice little talk today. Oh, you must be Larry Barker. How'd you guess? Oh, I'm real clever. How long have you been carrying on with Sheila? How long have I watched? You heard me. Yeah, but I'm sure I misunderstood. You think your wife and me. Yes, you got a real nasty mind. Listen, you tell me something, Barker. How do you get like that? The way I see it, either you once took a beating from some woman. Nobody puts anything over on me. And I got another theory. You must be playing around yourself. What? Sure, that's it. So because you can't be trusted, you don't believe anybody else can. I guess that means I'm right, huh? You're going to stay away from Sheila, do you understand? Who's going to make me? Me. All right, come on, Mike. Time to rise and shine. Oh, you're going to lay there and pamper yourself. Who's that? Just open those big brown eyes and look. That wouldn't be Sergeant Corbett. You givin odds? What are you doing here? Oh, now that's no way to talk to a man who saved your life. Who saved my life? Help me up. Well, if I were you, kiddo, I'd stay right there. May save you another trip down. Who did this job on you? Never mind. It was Larry. Barker wasn't in. How did you know? I'm psychic. And now about Barker. I'll take care of him. A couple of boys down at headquarters think you did already. What? Yeah, they found his body 20 minutes ago with three slugs in his brain. Oh, no. Oh, yes. And you'll die when you hear who they think put him there. You want to put your head on or will you go like that? In a moment, we'll return to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[A]

But first, Safeway and Albertsons have made saving easier than ever, with great savings on family favorites this week. 16 ounce sweet strawberries are two for $5 member price. And don't miss the incredible deal on Signature select boneless skinless chicken breast. Value packs for 2.97 per pound limit. One plus medium avocados or mangoes are five for $5 member price. Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. These deals won't last. Visit Safeway or albertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[B]

And now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. It just goes to prove you should never sleep in the daytime. Here. Larry Barker tucked me in. When I awoke, a police sergeant named Sidney Corbett was standing over me. I couldn't make up my mind which was more frightening, Corbett's news or his face. What's the matter, Mike? You look unhappy. Let me get this straight, Sergeant. Well, you got it straight. Barry Barker's been murdered. And you think I. Well, it's a possibility. You had a run in with him. When you found me. I was unconscious. How do I know you weren't faking? Now listen, you schlamilia. What are you getting so excited for? I said it was a possibility. The probabilities are something else again. Now, what was your trouble with Barker? He had some screwy idea I was horsing around with his wife. Were you? No. Oh, you're slipping. That ain't the Mike Waring I know and love. Sheila came to me to get her evidence for a divorce. Why? She got another guy on the string. Oh, she just couldn't stomach Larry anymore. He was creepy. Is he jealous? Well, I guess that problem's over now. Well, I hate to disagree with you, but I think her problems are just beginning. I don't see how. Well, you're not looking in the right places. You say Barker was crazy jealous. He would have fought a divorce, so she took the other way of getting rid of him. You're nuts. Well, I would have bet you'd say that. Whenever you're stuck for an answer, I tell you she didn't kill him. Sergeant, why don't you scout around and find out who else had it in for Barker. You have any suggestion? Yes. Larry was playing around on the side. He practically admitted it to me. That's why he was ready to believe the worst of Sheila, to justify himself. Well, assuming. Now, mark you, I say assuming there was another woman. So what? We'll know that when you find her. You mean when you find her. You expect me.

[C]

Uh huh.

[B]

I've done my part. I found Sheila. You get your own girl.

[C]

Who's there? Who's there?

[B]

Joyce?

[C]

Who's got your nerve?

[B]

Yes, that's what they all say.

[C]

Now look, miss, I don't know who you are, but if you don't get out of here.

[B]

You'll call a cop?

[C]

Yes.

[B]

By the Number of state 49970. What are you waiting for?

[C]

Who are you?

[B]

Pulaski's my name. Frank Pulaski. I'm a private dick. You know, I like the Falk.

[C]

What do you want?

[B]

Well, why don't I sit down, huh? Too bad about your boss.

[C]

My boss?

[B]

Larry Barker. Someone done him in.

[C]

You're lying.

[B]

Oh, you think so? Take a look at this headline.

[C]

Bookie killed in east side apartment. Lawrence Barker, better known.

[B]

Oh, no. You need a drink.

[C]

No, I don't.

[B]

Well, I do. Do you mind?

[C]

Is this why you came here?

[B]

Well, not exactly. Well, I am. You see, the cops think his wife knocked him off.

[C]

Well, they're crazy.

[B]

Well, she seemed like the best bet. Of course, you and I know better.

[C]

What do you mean?

[B]

Well, Barker came to my office yesterday to hire me to keep tabs on

[C]

his Mrs. That's a lie.

[B]

He hired Al Farinacci. Sure, but that was only after I turned him down. You know, he was a tough man to get a buck out of. You'd think his wife would be more generous. What? Well, I thought she at least would let me have a hundred for tipping her off on what was going on. But no. So then I thought of you.

[C]

I don't understand.

[B]

Well, now I'm a student of human nature. You can't believe how low people are.

[C]

Get to the point.

[B]

Yeah. Well, I wondered why a guy like Parker'd be watching his missus when she never once strayed off the reservation. And then it occurred to me maybe he'd like to put on the war paint himself.

[C]

I wouldn't know.

[B]

Are you kidding? Who'd know better?

[C]

Are you suggesting you get out?

[B]

Oh, you don't want to take that attitude, sweetie. Like I said, this is only a theory. Now, for 500 grams, I'd be willing to. Forget it.

[C]

Get out.

[B]

Well, if I do, I'll go straight to Mike Waring.

[C]

I don't care where you go.

[B]

Well, you can't say later. I didn't give you a chance. If I will get you 10, Waring will be willing to take it. Yeah? Hiya, Wearing. Do I know you? No, but think of what you've been missing. I'm willing to pass it up, or you'll be making a great mistake. You're working for Sheila Barker, ain't you? Well. Well, how would you like to get her off? Maybe you better come in. Thanks. I don't believe you mentioned your name. I don't believe I did. It's Pulaski. Frank Pulaski. Oh, now, don't tell me you heard of him. Only this afternoon, Sheila Barker told me you were working for her husband. Oh, she's got the story twisted. He wanted me to go to work, but I couldn't see it. We couldn't get together on a fee. That's tough. Well, it's tougher than you think. Imagine me sitting here with everything I know. And what do you know? Well, is it worth 500 fish? It might be. Well, suppose I told you that Barker was playing around. I figured that out for myself. Yeah, but I know her name. Wouldn't she pay off? Hmm. Well, you must have braced her first. You know, you're pretty cute. I bet you say that to all the boys. Who's the girl? First men. You see the color of your doe. Come on, Pulaski. Who's the girl? Let go. I asked you something. Don't you ever do that again. Don't have me. You're gonna pay for that. Put it on my bill. Now, what's her name? Well, Joyce. Joyce Crane. Where can I find her? At the Comstar. Thanks a lot, Pulaski. You've been a great help. That's okay. Wary. The pleasure was all mine. You'll be surprised what I do for you in the future. Hello?

[C]

Whatever you're selling, mister, I'm not interested.

[B]

How do you know it?

[C]

If you see my line, I'll take my chances.

[B]

You can't afford to. Joyce.

[C]

Aren't you being just a little bit familiar?

[B]

If you think I'm obnoxious now, wait till you know me better. My name is Mike Waring.

[C]

Oh, hooray for you.

[B]

You're not impressed?

[C]

You have no idea. You can say everything you want to right there.

[B]

Everything.

[C]

Look, you're not fooling me. I know Pulaski's in to see you.

[B]

I kind of hoped it'd be a surprise. No.

[C]

He announced his intention as he left.

[B]

I see. And I see something else. What? Larry Barker was right. You wouldn't have made him a good wife. You're much too possessive. A careful there may be. Kitty's listening. But you are possessive. You proved it when you killed him. Get out. You're forgetting, angel. I am out. You never invited me in, Mr. Big Mouth. Had to go and remind her. Hey, buddy. Me? Yeah. I wonder if you could see setting an argument for me. My friend gave. Now what is it? He says you're Mike Waring. Well? And I got a gun that says you're going to get into this car. Who's right? Apparently. Both of you, get in. You fellas ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Things like this don't happen anymore. Don't they? Yeah, I guess they do. Well, whose lap do I sit on? Look over, Wally. Watch him. You know, I got a friend who won't believe this. He's a police sergeant. Think of that. You're not even impressed. You think his feelings will be hurt? Absolutely. So why tell him? You talk too much, Willie. You may be right. Sure I am. I ought to know. I talk too much, too. All right, Wally. Let's find a nice quiet spot where instead of all this dialogue, we can get a little action. In a moment, we'll return to the Adventures of the Falcon. Well, that's life. And obviously somewhere along the line, I put my foot in it. Five minutes after Wally found his nice, quiet spot, that same foot was around my neck. The next thing I knew, I was at police headquarters and it had begun to rain. But I was the only one getting wet. Sergeant Corbett was in charge of the downpour. All right, Sussman, once more, cut that out. You want to drown me? Well, I thought that would bring you Around? You didn't have to do that. Well, it was too good an opportunity to waste. Here's a towel. Thanks. Well, you better get the back of your neck, Mike. You're not dry behind the ears. Oh, that's a good one. How did I get here anyway? A prowl car found you in Red Hook. Recognizing you as my comrade in arms, they brought you here. Now, who did it? I don't know their names, but they were obviously hired by the same party who killed Larry Barker. You mean Sheila? Don't be a SAP. They were hired by Joyce Crane. And who, pray tell, is Joyce Crane? She was Larry Barker's secretary. Only her time belonged to him out of the office as well. And the two punks who gave you that going over were hired by her? Yes, if you want a description. Oh, I wouldn't care to hear him. Now, look, Sydney, we already picked them up. One is Wally Ford, and the other is a boy named Tony Gilman. How do you know they're the right ones? Why, they admitted it. Oh, well, then we shouldn't have any trouble getting him to confess that Joyce hired him. That I doubt. Now, look, Corbett. Well, what are you telling me to look for? This isn't television. They're friends of Frank Pulaski. What? Yeah, they were just doing them a favor. Now that I think of it, why did I lock them up? Well, they were doing me a favor, too. Hello, Joyce.

[C]

Don't tell me you're back again.

[B]

I wouldn't slam the door, lover. This time I brought along a friend. This is Sergeant Corbin. How do you do?

[C]

Look, Sergeant, I don't know what wearing toe.

[B]

Well, that's just the trouble. He didn't tell me a thing. Maybe you can help out. May we come in?

[C]

No.

[B]

Well, I think we better.

[C]

Is that an official request?

[B]

Oh, I didn't flash my badge. Now, why can't we keep this on a friendly basis?

[C]

Well, I don't like him. Me?

[B]

The girl's got tasted.

[C]

Sit down.

[B]

Thanks.

[C]

Now, what do you want to know?

[B]

Well, Waring here has come up with a very interesting theory. You see, Joyce, there's one character in this little drama we've forgotten. Now, you don't believe that Sheila killed Larry Barker, do you?

[C]

Yes, I do.

[B]

You change your mind, it's a woman's prerogative. Well, let's hold Sheila in abeyance for a while. Let's get back to this character we've overlooked. What's the name of the private dick Larry hired?

[C]

You mean Pulaski?

[B]

No, no, Pulaski. Never went to work for him. This is the boy who actually did the job. The one who tailed Sheila to my apartment.

[C]

Al Farinacci.

[B]

Farinacci? That's a name.

[C]

What's he got to do with this?

[B]

Well, let's suppose Larry never paid him for the job. He didn't. That gives Farinacci a motive.

[C]

You're crazy. The only reason Larry didn't pay him is because he was busy.

[B]

But Farinacci expected to be paid right there and then.

[C]

No. Larry had a right to check and see whether his information was McCoy. Once Larry found out Sheila hired you to get divorce evidence, he agreed to pay off.

[B]

How do you know that?

[C]

Because Larry tells me as much.

[B]

Then it's your theory Sheila killed it.

[C]

She knew she'd never be free any other way.

[B]

You really want to see her burned, don't you?

[C]

I most certainly do.

[B]

Bloodthirsty little girl, ain't she? Well, what do you say, Mike? I say it's about time you did something. What are you mumbling about? She's the one we want.

[C]

Are you out of your mind?

[B]

That's possible, too, but it doesn't alter the conclusion. You killed Larry Barker? Yes. You were in love with him.

[C]

Then why would I kill him?

[B]

Because you were getting older every day. You went with him for nine years, always deluding yourself. Someday he'd marry you. When you finally woke up to the fact he was killing you, that was it.

[C]

No. No.

[B]

Can you prove that, Mike? Sure. When Barker came to my place, he accused me of running around with Sheila. He slugged me before I had a chance to tell. I was only working for. But Joyce here claimed Barker told her that. That's what I mean. That's how I knew Joyce was lying. All right, Corbett. Fool everybody and make like a police ser.