The Saint: The Frightened Author 07/23/1950

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "The Saint: The Frightened Author" (Originally aired 07/23/1950)

Main Theme and Purpose

This episode of The Saint—hosted by Choice Classic Radio and starring Vincent Price as Simon Templar—revolves around the chaos unleashed when writer Randy Patterson fictionalizes real-life people and scandals in his latest novel. When those depicted in the book realize the striking similarities to their actual lives, tensions escalate into suspicion, threats, and ultimately, murder. Simon Templar is reluctantly roped in to unravel the tangled motives, simmering resentments, and connections that point to the true culprit.

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Key Discussion & Plot Points

1. The Writer in Fear (00:59–05:44)

• Randy Patterson, a mystery novelist, seeks Simon Templar's help. He's terrified because he thinks his latest book might get him killed.
• The book mirrors the real-life affair and business wrangling between heavyweight boxer Kid Waldo, the boxer's manager George Garnett, and Garnett's wife, Felice.
• Randy's attempt to "disguise" characters with minor changes (like making a heavyweight into a lightweight) proves ineffective.
• All the real-life counterparts recognize themselves and are angry—potentially dangerously so.
  • Patterson: “Maybe you can save my life.” (02:05)
  • Templar (sarcastically): "You better start protecting yourself." (03:48)

2. Investigating the Trio (05:44–15:14)

• Simon visits Kid Waldo at the gym. The Kid denies anything in the book is true, but his defensiveness is suspicious.
• Simon then faces off with the paranoid George Garnett, who is anxious, popping indigestion pills, suspicious of his wife, and upset by the affair and potential murder depicted in the book.
• Garnett feels as though the book is a threat or a prophecy.
  • Garnett: “If I get murdered, I’ll hold Patterson partly responsible. So help me, I will.” (07:45)
• Monk, Garnett’s bodyguard and former sparring partner of the Kid, is introduced as a muscle-for-hire, quick to threaten Simon.

3. Felice Garnett’s Angle (11:30–15:14)

• Templar visits Felice at her hotel. She is evasive, alluring, and worried about being framed for her husband's impending murder.
• Felice suspects the whole situation is a setup to cast suspicion on her and the Kid, orchestrated, she claims, by the book and its real-life consequences.
  • Felice: “I’m being framed. For my husband’s murder.” (12:33)
• She claims she just wants Simon to prove her innocence if Garnett is killed, not to save her husband from murder.

4. Patterson’s Murder (16:26–17:07)

• Patterson is found dead after confessing, under pressure from Simon, that someone close to the main players gave him details for his book.
• Kid Waldo is unhelpful and surly when questioned, giving only curt answers and referring Simon to his lawyers.

5. Alibis, Tension, and Suspects (17:08–24:36)

• Simon meets Felice again to question her about her alibi; she claims she spent the afternoon at the bar with Tony the bartender as her witness.
• Felice’s relationship with Kid Waldo is further questioned but both continue to deny any affair. Jealousy and flirtation between Simon, Felice, and the Kid heat up.
  • Felice: “Don’t you like me just a little bit?” (18:45)
  • Templar: “Yes, Felice, I like you...just a little bit.” (18:52)
• Simon returns to see Garnett and Monk. He examines their timeline and whereabouts during the murder, finding the alibi shaky.

6. The Real Killer Unmasked (24:36–26:10)

• Simon deduces that Monk, Garnett’s bodyguard, is the real killer.
• Monk had supplied Patterson with inside information—thus, once Patterson seemed ready to reveal his source, Monk silenced him to protect himself.
  • Templar: “How did you know he needed protection unless you knew about the murder?” (25:11)
  • Templar: “The alibi you were preparing for Garnett would have worked for you, too.” (25:21)
• Monk’s motive: loyalty to Garnett, but mostly self-preservation, since he was the leak and stood to lose everything.

7. Resolution

• Simon turns Monk over to the police, clearing the rest of the suspects and restoring a shaky peace among the survivors.

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Memorable Quotes & Moments (with Timestamps)

• Templar (about Randy's book): “The case of the cut up author, or who hacked the hack.” (02:13)
• Garnett (on anxiety): “Nervous stomach. Been under strain lately. Terrible strain.” (07:12)
• Felice (setting the stakes): “I want to keep on living. That’s why I came here.” (12:00)
• Felice (on being framed): “If George really is killed, naturally it’d look like the Kid and I did it. That’s the whole idea.” (13:15)
• Templar (on Felice): “Before you and I give way to mad rapture, shouldn’t we think about your husband?” (14:02)
• Templar (after Monk knocks him down): “I’ll help myself up, thanks.” (10:16)
• Monk (delusions of grandeur): “Even Joe Lewis was scared of me.” (11:04)
• Simon (deducing the murder): “How did you know he needed protection unless you knew about the murder?” (25:11)
• Simon (summoning Monk to the police): “Come on, Monk. Maybe Joe Lewis isn’t scared of you, but I ain’t.” (26:05)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• Meeting with Randy Patterson: 00:59–05:44
• Interview with Kid Waldo: 05:44–06:43
• Interview with George Garnett: 06:43–11:30
• Meeting Felice Garnett: 11:30–15:14
• Patterson murdered: 16:26–17:07
• Alibis and suspect round-up: 17:08–24:36
• Monk unmasked as the killer: 24:36–26:10

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Tone & Style

The episode features Vincent Price’s characteristic sardonic humor, clever wordplay, and sharp dialogue. The interplay between the characters brims with suspicion, flirtations, and rapid-fire exchanges. The overlay of classic radio noir moodiness, laced with wit, makes for an engaging and suspenseful listen.

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Final Thoughts

The Saint: The Frightened Author is a prime example of Golden Age radio detective storytelling: a clever premise about fiction intruding on reality, layered suspects with intersecting motives, and an investigator who solves the case with both intelligence and charm.

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Transcript

[Announcer]

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 Adventures of the Saint starring Vincent Price. The Saint. Based on characters created by Leslie Charter and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures, the Robin Hood of modern crime now comes to radio starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor Vincent Price.

[Randy Patterson]

As.

[George Garnett]

The Saint thing.

[Randy Patterson]

Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Well, if it isn't Randy Patterson.

[Randy Patterson]

Oh, Templar, am I ever glad to see you. Just what the psychiatrist ordered. Sit down, old boy. Take a load of. Join me in a bowl of for thanks, but S I have a glad to see you. A sight for these bloodshot orbs.

[Simon Templar]

Yes, S, I realize I'm a very charming fellow and all that, Randy, but even so, me thinks this greeting is just a wee bit over enthusiastic. Could it be we're leading up to a touch?

[Randy Patterson]

Oh, Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Oh boy.

[Randy Patterson]

Leave us not be mercenary.

[Simon Templar]

There's nothing I'd rather leave us not be.

[Randy Patterson]

My heart goes out to you, Simon, but not my hand. Say, not that. I'll use that sometime.

[Simon Templar]

You just did. No, I mean in one of my books you did. Did I? Yes. In the case of the Hangman's rope, where there's bad noose tonight, say that's right.

[Randy Patterson]

So I did.

[Simon Templar]

What do you know.

[Randy Patterson]

So you read my books? I'm flattered.

[Simon Templar]

I read that once.

[Randy Patterson]

Did you read my latest, the case of the dead man's limp or he died with his boots on and they were too tight.

[Simon Templar]

I missed that one.

[Randy Patterson]

Not too bad. Well, that's why I'm glad to see you.

[Simon Templar]

Because I didn't read your book?

[Randy Patterson]

No, because maybe you can save my life.

[George Garnett]

I could be killed on account of that book.

[Simon Templar]

Just that one.

[Randy Patterson]

Oh, Templar, old boy, you cut me to the quick.

[Simon Templar]

The case of the cut up author or who hacked the hack.

[George Garnett]

Oh, it's no joke, Templar.

[Simon Templar]

You've heard of kid Waldo the heavyweight? Yeah, I've heard of him.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, when he was just a punk.

[George Garnett]

Georgie Garnett signed him up to manage him.

[Randy Patterson]

Lifetime contract. Now the kid is in the higher brackets and he's still tied to Garnett on terms he no like.

[Simon Templar]

Well, can't he afford a lawyer?

[Randy Patterson]

He's got a lawyer. But Garnett swings a mean pen. No loopholes. The contract is ironclad.

[Simon Templar]

And your heart bleeds for the kid and you're afraid you'll bleed to death. I think not exactly.

[Randy Patterson]

You see, the kid figures an angle. Garnett has a wife. Oh, a lovely tomato any way you look at her. And brother, you look at her.

[Simon Templar]

You mean the kid looks at her.

[Randy Patterson]

Precisely. And vice versa. You see, the kid is no bad piece of merchandise himself. Six foot four of solid muscle.

[Simon Templar]

What about his face?

[Randy Patterson]

Well, his face retains much of its original shape in spite of coming in contact with some of the fanciest in the business.

[Simon Templar]

Soft music Two hearts and three quarter time. I get the picture.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, not all of us. Don't forget Garnett.

[Simon Templar]

Husband. Ah, yes. Triangle. Three hearts in two quarter time.

[Randy Patterson]

And that's the kid's angle. Play up to the missus.

[George Garnett]

Well, she goes for me.

[Simon Templar]

So he can use her to get better terms from Garnett, huh?

[Randy Patterson]

Only the way I wrote it, the kid and the missus slipped the manager a dose of wrapping.

[Simon Templar]

The way you wrote it?

[Randy Patterson]

Well, that's what I'm talking about.

[Simon Templar]

You wrote a book based on Kid waldo shenanigans with Mrs. Garnett added murder and put it on the newsstand. I did. So help me.

[Randy Patterson]

And I do mean help.

[Simon Templar]

I See one of your real life characters is read the book.

[Narrator]

One of them?

[Felice Garnett]

All of them.

[George Garnett]

Oh.

[Randy Patterson]

Garnett wants to know, are his wife and his fighter really giving them the business? And if so, how do I know? My wife wants to know. How do I know? My kid wants to know.

[George Garnett]

How do I know?

[Simon Templar]

Well, how do you know?

[George Garnett]

Templar, please.

[Randy Patterson]

A writer protects his sources.

[Simon Templar]

He better start protecting himself.

[Randy Patterson]

That's where you come in.

[Simon Templar]

How big did you say the kid is?

[George Garnett]

6?

[Simon Templar]

4. That's where I go out.

[Randy Patterson]

Oh, now wait.

[Simon Templar]

I don't want any part of it. Randy, you deserve what you're getting. You should have known better than to use a real situation.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, I didn't use their real names. You think I'm crazy?

[Simon Templar]

No comment.

[Randy Patterson]

And I used a disclaimer. Any similarity, etc.

[Simon Templar]

You know? Yeah. I don't know how they caught on.

[Randy Patterson]

But I used a switcheroo. The kid is a top heavyweight contender.

[Simon Templar]

But not in the book.

[Randy Patterson]

I changed all that.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, you changed all that? Yeah.

[Randy Patterson]

In the book, he's a lightweight.

[Simon Templar]

That's what I call a switcheroo.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, they're after my hide, so you got to help me, Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Well, what do you want me to do?

[Randy Patterson]

You expect me to tell the Saint his business? He'll think of something.

[Simon Templar]

I already have.

[Monk]

Oh, great.

[Simon Templar]

What? I'm out of shaving green, so I better go right back.

[Randy Patterson]

Templar, I appeal to you in the name of our friend.

[Simon Templar]

You know, Randy, I'm beginning to think of a few names for our friendship that aren't exactly appealing.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, you wouldn't let me down. You couldn't.

[Simon Templar]

I could try.

[Randy Patterson]

Is this Simon Templar speaking? My old pal, my buddy. The Simon Templar who saw me through the darkest hours of deadly literary tea.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, Randy.

[Randy Patterson]

Who stood by me when the critics descended upon my first poor, defenseless brainchild?

[George Garnett]

Who was the.

[Randy Patterson]

Stop it.

[Simon Templar]

Stop it, Randy. You're breaking my heart. I'll do what I can for you, Randy. Oh, good old Templar.

[Randy Patterson]

I knew you'd come through.

[Simon Templar]

But I still don't know just what you want.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, it's simple, old man. These jokers are sore.

[Simon Templar]

All of them.

[Miss Garnett]

Maybe they're after my hide.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, that's what I've got to find out.

[Simon Templar]

In other words, one and all would thoroughly be delighted to see you dead. And you want to know if any of them are making specific plans for such delight.

[Randy Patterson]

Exactly. If we know what they're planning, maybe we can stop it. If not.

[Simon Templar]

You have a feeling all of a sudden any resemblance between you and a living person will be strictly coincidental.

[Felice Garnett]

Right?

[Simon Templar]

Hello, Kid. Why don't you give that punching bag a rest? It's getting tired.

[George Garnett]

Who are you?

[Simon Templar]

Simon Templer. I'm a friend of Randy Patterson. Oh, please, kid, I want to talk to you.

[Randy Patterson]

I got nothing to say.

[Simon Templar]

Well, then, allow me.

[Randy Patterson]

Look, mister, my lawyers are Smith and McCormick. It's in their hands.

[George Garnett]

You want to talk, talk to them.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, lawyers. Yeah, lawyers.

[Randy Patterson]

I've been libeled.

[George Garnett]

I never did none of the things.

[Randy Patterson]

It says in that book.

[Simon Templar]

You didn't?

[Randy Patterson]

No.

[Simon Templar]

Well, then how do you know that the book's about you?

[Randy Patterson]

How do I know?

[George Garnett]

How do I know?

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, how do you know?

[George Garnett]

Why, everything that happens in that book is just exactly like a.

[Randy Patterson]

Go chase yourself, will you?

[Simon Templar]

Oh, kid, you're looking the wrong way. This is my head. That's the punching bag there. See?

[Randy Patterson]

Yeah.

[Simon Templar]

So long, kid.

[George Garnett]

Yes?

[Simon Templar]

My name is Simon Templar. I'm looking for George Garnett.

[George Garnett]

I'm Garnett.

[Simon Templar]

Do you always greet your guests with a gun?

[Monk]

Lately.

[George Garnett]

And Monk isn't around.

[Simon Templar]

Who's Monk?

[George Garnett]

Bodyguard. Templar, eh? I've heard that name. Well, what do you want?

[Simon Templar]

Look, I'd like to talk to you, but not in the doorway with a gun in my red.

[George Garnett]

All right. Come in. Come in.

[Simon Templar]

Thank you.

[George Garnett]

Thank you. Templar. Templar. Seems I. Oh. Oh, sit down there.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, thank.

[Randy Patterson]

Have to take these.

[George Garnett]

Blamed indigestion pills. Nervous stomach. Been under strain lately. Terrible strain. By Jove, the saint. Of course, that's right. Yes, sure, sure. Templar. Ah. Well, what brings you here, Templar?

[Simon Templar]

Randy Patterson.

[George Garnett]

After Patterson. That rat, that skunk, that murderer.

[Simon Templar]

Murderer?

[George Garnett]

Accomplice? Him.

[Simon Templar]

So who's been murdered?

[George Garnett]

Nobody yet, then. Well, but somebody, maybe. Any minute, anytime.

[Simon Templar]

Who?

[George Garnett]

Me. That's what he said in that blasted book, isn't it?

[Simon Templar]

Me. But that doesn't. Yeah, me, me, me.

[George Garnett]

Well, I tell you, temper. If I get murdered, I'll hold Patterson partly responsible. So help me, I will.

[Simon Templar]

Just because he said you might be killed. You have to thank him for the warning.

[George Garnett]

But he won't tell me where he got the information. So I can really protect myself. No, I can't sleep. I got. Where'd I put those pills?

[Simon Templar]

You swallowed them. Oh. Oh, oh.

[George Garnett]

Do you know, Templar? Do you know where he got the information?

[Simon Templar]

No.

[George Garnett]

If you knew, would you tell? Oh, yes, you would. I'll just bet. Why'd you come here, Templar?

[Simon Templar]

I've been wondering what you plan to do. Thoroughly.

[Randy Patterson]

Do?

[Simon Templar]

Do?

[George Garnett]

What can I do? Look, I got a beautiful wife. We were. Well, we got along. At least, I thought we did. Then he says in the book. Well, you know.

[Simon Templar]

Yes, I know.

[George Garnett]

Oh, confound. A Templar. Thing like that. How can you be sure? Felice says it's a lot of eyewash. That's what she says. A lot of eye wash. But I've been watching her. Watching her and the kid. That's the trouble. Get you suspicious. I've been watching. There's something between them. I know there is. But if only I could be certain. Are you sure I took those pills?

[Simon Templar]

I'm sure.

[George Garnett]

I mustn't forget. Doc says I'm. Well, anyway, back to what I was saying. What was I saying?

[Simon Templar]

You think there's something between Felice and the kid. Yeah.

[George Garnett]

Yeah, think. If only I was. Oh, who's kidding who? I know. If Patterson is right about that. If he's right about that. Well, don't you see?

[Simon Templar]

The what? The murder.

[George Garnett]

Oh, he could be right about that, too. It comes next. Yeah, the murder comes next.

[Simon Templar]

Not necessarily.

[George Garnett]

That's why I got Monk.

[Simon Templar]

Big guy.

[George Garnett]

Used to be the kid's sparring partner. Where is he? He ought to be here. Say, look, you still haven't told me what you're doing here, Templar. What do you want?

[Simon Templar]

Nothing more with you, Garnett. But I would like to see Felice. Is she at home?

[George Garnett]

No, at the Hotel Bennett. Oh, yes. After this business, she moved out. Said I was too suspicious. Who wouldn't be suspicious? But I love her, Templar. That's the trouble. Why did he have to say? Do you suppose there's a chance? Oh, no. Why do I keep trying to kid myself? Get out of here, Templar. Will you get out?

[Simon Templar]

I'm going, Garnet. Goodbye.

[Monk]

Hey, wait a minute. Where do you think you're going?

[George Garnett]

Mr. Holmes.

[Randy Patterson]

Monk.

[Monk]

Monk.

[Announcer]

Oh.

[Monk]

Oh, Mr. Garnett. I. I didn't know you was here. I seen this fella come out of the living room. I didn't know who he was.

[George Garnett]

Well, you might have asked before you broke my jaw.

[Simon Templar]

Is it broke in at least three plates.

[Monk]

Ah, you kidding? Is she a friend of yours, Mr. Garnett?

[George Garnett]

Friend? Is anyone a friend in this dog eat dog world? I don't know. Help him up, Monk.

[Simon Templar]

I'll help myself up, thanks. Oh, all right, Monk. You want sparring practice? I'll be glad to accommodate you. Wait a minute.

[Monk]

What's he doing here? Mr. Glennard, I'm not quite sure which I throw. Mart.

[Simon Templar]

Look, muscle brains. I'd already be out if you hadn't suddenly rushed to the rescue.

[George Garnett]

He's right, Monk. And speaking of rushing to the rescue, where were you?

[Monk]

Taking a nap. I got to keep in condition.

[George Garnett]

I might have needed you.

[Monk]

Well, you got the roscoe.

[George Garnett]

In that case, why do I ever need you? Say, that's a thought. Perhaps. Well, Sampler, what are you waiting for? Thought you were going.

[Simon Templar]

This has been such a delightful get together. I can hardly tear myself away.

[Monk]

I can tear your wife. You need any help?

[Simon Templar]

I doubt it, Monk. From the look of you, you don't do so good when the other fellow's in a position to fight back.

[Monk]

If you was in the ring as long as I was, you'd be kind of banged up, too. But I was plenty good, brother.

[Simon Templar]

Plenty good.

[Narrator]

If you want to know, even Joe.

[Monk]

Lewis was scared of me.

[George Garnett]

Yeah? Yeah, he was scared to fight me. How do you like that? Lewis was scared to fight me.

[Simon Templar]

How do you know?

[Monk]

Well, did he ever fight me?

[Simon Templar]

Not that I know. All right, then, I see what you mean. Well, goodbye again, Fell.

[Felice Garnett]

Come in, Mr. Templer.

[Simon Templar]

Well, look what I get. And I didn't even send in any box tops. What? I was expecting Randy Patterson, but he can wait. In fact, I hope he does. Come in. Come in.

[Felice Garnett]

Mr. Templer, you've got to help me.

[Simon Templar]

Well, in that case, you'd better call me Simon.

[Felice Garnett]

All right.

[Simon Templar]

And what do I call you?

[Felice Garnett]

Police. Police. Garnett.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, I'm so glad to meet you, Felice. In fact, I've tried to reach you several times today.

[Monk]

Really?

[Randy Patterson]

Why?

[Simon Templar]

Well, you see, I'm a friend of Randy Patterson.

[Felice Garnett]

I didn't know he had any friends.

[Simon Templar]

Well, live and learn.

[Felice Garnett]

Yes, and I want to keep on living. That's why I came here. If you're a friend of Patterson's, maybe I made a mistake.

[Simon Templar]

Not necessarily. What brings you here?

[Felice Garnett]

I heard you'd been to see my husband. I wondered what your interest in us was. I'm afraid I found out.

[Simon Templar]

You said you wanted me to help you.

[Randy Patterson]

I did.

[Felice Garnett]

When I heard you were involved, I thought you might be just the one to turn to. That was before you told me about Patterson. Any friend of his is an enemy of mine, of course.

[Simon Templar]

But, Feliz, I believe in the old saying, love your enemy.

[Felice Garnett]

It's rather difficult.

[Simon Templar]

Apparently. You need someone to help you. Why not give me a try? Just what help do you need?

[Felice Garnett]

Well, it can't hurt to tell you I'm being framed.

[Simon Templar]

For what?

[Felice Garnett]

My husband's murder.

[Simon Templar]

Has he been murdered?

[Felice Garnett]

Well, not yet, but.

[Simon Templar]

You know, it's funny how everyone seems to take it for granted that he will be.

[Felice Garnett]

He will.

[Simon Templar]

How do you know?

[Randy Patterson]

That's what it's all about.

[Simon Templar]

What?

[Felice Garnett]

Didn't you read the book?

[Simon Templar]

Just because Randy wrote a book.

[Felice Garnett]

But that's why he wrote it. So my husband could be murdered.

[Simon Templar]

Is that a fact?

[George Garnett]

Of course.

[Felice Garnett]

Patterson wrote a book, thinly disguised, about me and my husband and kid Waldo. In it, the kid and I plot to kill my husband. So George read it, got frightened. Now he suspects. Maybe we really are planning to kill him. He's even hired a bodyguard.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, don't you see?

[Felice Garnett]

It's all a buildup.

[George Garnett]

George really is killed.

[Felice Garnett]

Naturally, it looked like the kid and I did it. That's the whole idea.

[Simon Templar]

And Randy's in on the plot? Of course.

[Felice Garnett]

The real killer hired him to throw suspicion on us.

[Simon Templar]

Just who is the real killer?

[Felice Garnett]

I don't know. That's what I wanted you to find out.

[Simon Templar]

Well, it's an interesting theory. Police theory. I'll check to see if it's anything more than that.

[George Garnett]

You will.

[Felice Garnett]

But if Patterson's your friend, if he's.

[Simon Templar]

Pocketing blood money, this is the end of a not so beautiful friendship. And then Felicia and I could be friends.

[Felice Garnett]

Oh, Simon, if you help me, we'll be more than friends.

[Simon Templar]

Aren't you forgetting just one small little item?

[Miss Garnett]

Am I?

[Felice Garnett]

Oh, you don't mean the kid, do you? So you don't really believe there's anything between him and me?

[Simon Templar]

Perish the thought.

[Felice Garnett]

Well, then.

[Simon Templar]

But isn't there anything else? Now, think hard.

[Felice Garnett]

Oh, I'm no good at guessing games, Simon.

[Simon Templar]

What about your husband?

[Felice Garnett]

He isn't either.

[Simon Templar]

I mean, before you and I give way to mad rapture, shouldn't we think about him?

[Felice Garnett]

Oh, so that's what's bothering. But we don't have to worry about him.

[Simon Templar]

He's going to be murdered. Now don't look now, but isn't that what you want me to prevent his murder?

[Felice Garnett]

Heavens no. I just want you to prove I had nothing to do with it.

[Simon Templar]

You'd better run along, Felice. You're right. No.

[Randy Patterson]

Well then what?

[Simon Templar]

I feel a previous engagement coming on.

[Felice Garnett]

Don't tell me you're afraid of my husband.

[Simon Templar]

No, Felice.

[Felice Garnett]

Then I don't understand.

[Simon Templar]

I'm afraid of you. Hello, Andy.

[Randy Patterson]

Templar, old boy.

[Felice Garnett]

How are we doing?

[Simon Templar]

I thought you were coming over here.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, I been detained and she didn't have a friend. But I'll be right over. Now, if you've got something for me.

[Simon Templar]

Well, I can tell you over the phone. It seems each of your opposition has picked up reinforcements. How? Well, the kid has a couple of lawyers. Uh oh, I was afraid of that. And Garnett has a bodyguard.

[Randy Patterson]

How about Mrs. Garnett?

[Simon Templar]

She has me. Oh, should have known. One look at her. I'm still running. But I'm afraid you're going to have to tell me who did your research for you. Randy Templar.

[Randy Patterson]

I told you it was strictly confidential.

[Simon Templar]

You can either tell me now or the police later.

[George Garnett]

Police?

[Simon Templar]

Because your character seemed determined to act out the finale of your opus. Garnett is already shopping for a coffin.

[Randy Patterson]

I just made up that stuff about the murder. I don't think the kid and the gal would really knock him off.

[Simon Templar]

The consensus is that somebody would. So you'd better talk.

[Randy Patterson]

But I gave my word.

[Simon Templar]

Did that ever stop you before, Templar?

[Randy Patterson]

To think that you should say such a thing. You who have been so close several years.

[Simon Templar]

We've been too close.

[Randy Patterson]

All right, all right. I'm a no good, a he or a liar. I'd sell my soul for a mess of pottage. But at least Templar has always been the best pottage.

[Simon Templar]

Now will you please stop talking and talk?

[Randy Patterson]

You want me to betray a confidence?

[Simon Templar]

I thought we'd agreed. It's in character.

[George Garnett]

How true.

[Randy Patterson]

How very, very true. Well, the only.

[Simon Templar]

Randy. Randy, Randy. You really believe in keeping me in shape, don't you kid?

[Randy Patterson]

Oh, you again, Temple?

[Simon Templar]

Yeah.

[Randy Patterson]

Look, why don't you get lost and take Patterson with you.

[Simon Templar]

Patterson already got lost. That's why I'm here. I don't get it. I was talking to him on the phone. I heard shots. I called the police. And they called back from Patterson's place. He's dead. I'm not surprised. What do you know about it?

[George Garnett]

He had it coming.

[Simon Templar]

From you, maybe.

[Randy Patterson]

Only somebody beat me to it.

[Simon Templar]

Is that so?

[Randy Patterson]

I got nothing more to say. You want conversation, see my lawyer.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, Smith and McCormick. I know. I may get around to it.

[George Garnett]

Yeah, do that.

[Simon Templar]

Hello, police.

[Felice Garnett]

Oh, hello, Simon.

[Simon Templar]

I asked at the desk. They said I'd find you here in the bar.

[Miss Garnett]

That's where I am.

[Simon Templar]

Here at the bar. Isn't that funny? Very. Well, it isn't. And I'm awesome.

[Miss Garnett]

Nobody's been here all afternoon except my friend Tony. Tony's my favorite bartender. Tony. Hey, Mr. Templer.

[Simon Templar]

Hi, Ms. Temple. Charmed. Feliz.

[Felice Garnett]

Simon bought me a drink.

[Miss Garnett]

Tony hit me again. My friend's setting him up.

[Randy Patterson]

Okay, Ms. Garnett.

[Felice Garnett]

Oh, thank you.

[Simon Templar]

Girl. Got to give up a spirit.

[Miss Garnett]

Simon, what are you drinking?

[George Garnett]

I'll just watch you, I hear.

[Simon Templar]

Good. Suppose you tell me. I've been wondering. You want to know if I have an alibi.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, I have.

[Miss Garnett]

I came out here from your place and I've been here ever since.

[Simon Templar]

I seen.

[Miss Garnett]

You hate me, don't you?

[Simon Templar]

No.

[Miss Garnett]

Why do you keep spying on me?

[Simon Templar]

I simply can't keep myself away from you. I believe that. If you believed it, I wouldn't say it. Huh?

[Miss Garnett]

You're just trying to mix me up.

[Simon Templar]

You've already mixed me up. What's this alibi you were talking about? Who?

[Miss Garnett]

For the murder, silly.

[Simon Templar]

Oh. How do you know about that? It's not in the papers yet.

[Miss Garnett]

Really, Simon, for a smart man, you. The kids phoned me. How else do you think I know?

[Simon Templar]

He didn't waste any time, did he?

[Felice Garnett]

We knew I'd be interested.

[Simon Templar]

Nice of him to be so considerate. I thought there was nothing between you two.

[Miss Garnett]

You are spying.

[Simon Templar]

I'm curious.

[Felice Garnett]

Maybe you're jealous.

[Miss Garnett]

I jealous, Simon?

[Simon Templar]

Terribly.

[Miss Garnett]

I wish I believed that.

[Simon Templar]

What's between you and the kid?

[Miss Garnett]

I told you, nothing.

[Simon Templar]

He phoned you.

[Miss Garnett]

We knew I'd be interested.

[Simon Templar]

It's getting us no place.

[Miss Garnett]

We could get someplace, Simon, if only.

[Felice Garnett]

You'D stop acting so sorry. Don't you like me just a little bit?

[Simon Templar]

Yes, Felice, I like you. Simon. Just a little bit. Simon, who do you think killed Randy Patterson? Police.

[Miss Garnett]

Must we talk about this?

[Simon Templar]

I'm beginning to think it's the safest subject. Don't you have any idea who might have done it?

[Miss Garnett]

No, I'm afraid I Don't know what you want, Simon.

[Simon Templar]

I'm afraid I do know what you want.

[Randy Patterson]

Well, check this isn't this cold.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, hello, kid.

[Miss Garnett]

Oh, don't get the wrong idea, kid.

[Felice Garnett]

We were just talking.

[George Garnett]

Yeah, it looks like. How about the murder you were making.

[Randy Patterson]

With the moon eyes?

[Felice Garnett]

I can't.

[Miss Garnett]

Believe me. There's nothing between Simon and me.

[Felice Garnett]

Not a thing.

[Simon Templar]

He's right, kid. There's nothing more between us than there is between her and, say, you, for example. And she has assured me your relationship was strictly platonic.

[Monk]

Police.

[Randy Patterson]

You told him that?

[Miss Garnett]

I don't get the wrong idea?

[Simon Templar]

Wrong idea? I ain't got any idea.

[George Garnett]

What does it mean?

[Simon Templar]

Plato was a philosopher student of Socrates who believed that if two people got a wise guy.

[Felice Garnett]

Harry, kid, please don't be angry.

[George Garnett]

No, you play around with this guy.

[Randy Patterson]

And then he starts cracking smart. I ought to push your face out.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, Kid, never strike a lady. And you too, or a gentleman, when the gentleman is me. Oh, yeah?

[Randy Patterson]

We'll see all right.

[Simon Templar]

Felici miss.

[George Garnett]

But not this time.

[Simon Templar]

Sorry.

[Randy Patterson]

That only takes one three strikes, you're out.

[Simon Templar]

Now, that's enough, kid. One more and maybe I'd be out. So I better be running. See you around.

[Monk]

Oh, it's you.

[Simon Templar]

You greet me with a gun, too, Monk. That's what I like about this place. So friendly.

[Monk]

You got no idea how friendly. Just the guy we want to see. Come in, pal.

[Simon Templar]

Come right in. Now, that's a switch. Last time you were all for throwing me out.

[Monk]

Oh, that's before I learned what a sweet guy you was. Now come on in.

[Simon Templar]

With such a hearty invitation, I don't see how I can refuse.

[Monk]

You can.

[Simon Templar]

You know, Monk, this is an unexpected, unexpected pleasure. When I was here before, I got the impression Garnett was considering firing you.

[Monk]

Oh, he couldn't do that.

[Simon Templar]

Where is he?

[Monk]

In fact, he'll be in a minute. Now, you want to see why he couldn't fire me?

[Randy Patterson]

Why?

[Monk]

On account of there's some things I can do so much better.

[Simon Templar]

Like, for instance, you kick so beautifully. Monk, your mother must have been a Rockette.

[Monk]

Ah, don't try to hit back. This Roscoe's looking at your belly.

[Simon Templar]

All of a sudden, I'm everybody's target for tonight. What's the idea?

[Monk]

Mr. Garnett wanted to know how much Patterson told you. He asked you nice. Real nice. I don't ask so nice, but I get answers. Well, you want to talk now, or shall we dance?

[Simon Templar]

I have nothing to say.

[Monk]

We'll see about that. You still got nothing to say?

[Simon Templar]

I'm beginning to think of a few things. But I have an idea you wouldn't care for them.

[Monk]

You kill me. Maybe I can do the same for you sometime. Like right now, for instance. Unless you're ready to talk.

[Simon Templar]

I'll think about it.

[Monk]

Well, while you're thinking, put up your hands over your head.

[Narrator]

Hurry up.

[Simon Templar]

Don't forget the roscoe, my old friend. How could I?

[Monk]

That's it. And now, just to help you make up your mind, here's.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, well.

[Monk]

Hello, Mr. Garnett.

[George Garnett]

What's going on here? Hello, Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Greetings, Mr. Garnett.

[Monk]

You don't want to talk, Mr. Garnett. I've been trying to change his mind.

[Simon Templar]

I'll go right ahead.

[George Garnett]

Don't let me stop you.

[Monk]

I'm afraid it's no use. He's a stubborn type.

[George Garnett]

Yes, so it would seem, Monk. So it would seem. Well, Templeto, what are we indebted for this return visitor?

[Simon Templar]

I've seen Felice. I thought you might like to know how she's getting along.

[George Garnett]

Why should I care? Does she care about me? Does she ever even call? Don't stand there with your hands like that, Templar. It looks ridiculous.

[Simon Templar]

It's Monk's idea.

[Monk]

You heard Mr. Garnett, Templar. Put him down.

[Simon Templar]

Well, if you insist.

[George Garnett]

How is she, Templar?

[Simon Templar]

Who? Oh, Felice. Fine.

[George Garnett]

I was afraid that.

[Simon Templar]

Afraid?

[George Garnett]

I'd like to think she needed me. I've got to put her out of my mind, Templar. Completely. Only answer.

[Simon Templar]

Tell me something, Garnet. What? Where were you this afternoon? Home. All afternoon?

[Randy Patterson]

Yes.

[George Garnett]

Why?

[Simon Templar]

Was anyone with you?

[Monk]

I was.

[Simon Templar]

The whole time? Yes.

[George Garnett]

Except for another nap. He likes to keep in condition.

[Monk]

Only I didn't sleep so good. I was only gone a few minutes. Just a few minutes?

[George Garnett]

Half hour or so. Why, Templar?

[Simon Templar]

Did you try to reach me?

[Announcer]

No.

[Simon Templar]

Good enough.

[George Garnett]

I'd have heard the phone if you were here. But I told you I did.

[Simon Templar]

Just a minute.

[George Garnett]

What are you going to do? Just this, Templar. Why, you. You knocked out Monk.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, so it seems. Funny, I didn't hit him very hard.

[George Garnett]

You aimed at his chin. Always was his weakness. Had a wicked right, but he could never take it. Round heels, that's his trouble. I could have made a champ out of him if it hadn't been for those. But that's neither here nor there. Why'd you do it?

[Simon Templar]

He slugged me before when I wasn't looking. This Evensley account. And it gives me a chance to get his rusk. Oh, I want to point something out to you. Garnett, I didn't want Monk interfering. What? Randy Patterson doesn't live too far from here. I believe you could make it in 15 minutes.

[George Garnett]

Perhaps so. Perhaps so. What are you driving at?

[Simon Templar]

If 16 there, 15 back, half hour would have been long enough. For what? For you to have gone to his place and killed him?

[George Garnett]

Killed him? But do you mean have somebody? Well, I don't pretend I'm not pleased. But surely you don't really think that I. Why, that's prepo. That's absurd.

[Simon Templar]

Well, you could have while Monk was sleeping.

[George Garnett]

No, no, you don't understand. It's at least 15 minutes to Patterson's place.

[Simon Templar]

At the very least, if you hurry.

[George Garnett]

Race like mad.

[Simon Templar]

How do you know?

[Randy Patterson]

I've been there.

[George Garnett]

But not today. Not today. But, you know, you said yourself.

[Simon Templar]

All right. 15 minutes round trip in half an hour. That's all you needed.

[George Garnett]

Well, that was just round figures. I'm sure Monk couldn't have been out.

[Simon Templar]

Of the room for.

[George Garnett]

Oh, well, 20 minutes at most. You'll see. When he comes to, we'll ask him. 20 minutes at the most.

[Simon Templar]

I'm sure he'll say whatever you want him to, but we'll see.

[George Garnett]

Say, I just thought of something.

[Simon Templar]

What?

[George Garnett]

Has there been any report about the murder yet? Newspaper?

[Simon Templar]

Radio? No, not too soon. Mm.

[George Garnett]

Well, then, Mr. Templer, how come you happen to know about it?

[Simon Templar]

A nice point, Garnett, but notice what big ears I have. Grandpa, I overheard. Overheard? In telephone. Come on, Monk.

[George Garnett]

Wake up.

[Simon Templar]

Wake up. Come on. Come on. Hey.

[Monk]

Where is he?

[Announcer]

Oh.

[George Garnett]

Hey.

[Simon Templar]

Hey.

[Monk]

It was an accident. I slipped. I hit my head. You didn't.

[Simon Templar]

Sure, Monk, sure. What big ears you have, too, Monk. Genuine cauliflower. How did you hear about it? Hear about what? The murder. Who, me?

[George Garnett]

I.

[Simon Templar]

Obviously, Garnett didn't know about the murder, or he wouldn't have stuck his neck out by admitting you were out of the room. He didn't start crawling until I mentioned the murder.

[George Garnett]

That's right, Templar. You noticed.

[Simon Templar]

But I also noticed that Monk was very busy trying to build the alibi before I mentioned the murder.

[Monk]

Well, sure, I was trying to protect Mr. Garnett. After all, I got a great sense of loyalty.

[Simon Templar]

Now, Monk, you haven't got any sense of loyalty or any sense. How did you know he needed protection unless you knew about the murder?

[Randy Patterson]

Of course.

[Simon Templar]

How did he know unless he was a murderer?

[Monk]

Are you crazy?

[Simon Templar]

Maybe, Monk. But the alibi you were preparing for Garnett would have worked for you, too. If you were here with Garnett. You Couldn't have committed the murder. Isn't that why you insisted? You were gone only a few minutes.

[Monk]

My head hurts. I got nothing to say but templa.

[George Garnett]

What motive would Monk have?

[Simon Templar]

There's one thing we've all been wondering about, Garnett. How did Randy find out about your wife and the kid? Must have been from someone who was close to the kid. Say, a sparring partner, for instance.

[Randy Patterson]

Ha ha ha ha.

[George Garnett]

Templar, you've hit it.

[Simon Templar]

I think so. Monk gave Randy the information. Then when things got hot, Monk was afraid Randy might snitch. So he killed him to silence him.

[George Garnett]

That's it, Templar. That's it, Monk. You scoundrel. You villain, you.

[Monk]

Ah, shut up, Monk.

[George Garnett]

That's insubordination.

[Simon Templar]

Now come on, Monk. You and I are going to police headquarters.

[Monk]

Who says?

[Simon Templar]

Come on, Monk. Don't try to get tough. Maybe Joe Lewis isn't scared of you, but I ain't.

[George Garnett]

Come on, let's go.

[Narrator]

You have been listening to another adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime. And now, here is our star, Vincent Price.

[Simon Templar]

Ladies and gentlemen, take a memo to the future. The date, make it 1958. The message, cash in your United States Savings Bonds. Take your savings plus the additional dollar for every three invested. And well, you finish the memo. Perhaps you'll end it with a home or a business of your own, with a college education for the children, with financial security. Whatever your dream for the future, you can make it come true with a program of regular saving. And there is no surer, more profitable way of saving than through the purchase of United States Savings Bonds. Remember these points. United States Savings bonds are safe, they are profitable, they are convenient to buy, and they are redeemable at any time at the purchase price plus accumulated interest. If employed, you can buy United States Savings Bonds where you work by having your employer set aside an amount each week. If self employed, buy your savings bond through your bank on a bond a month basis. Make that dream come true. Remember, automatic saving is sure saving. This is Vincent Price inviting you to join us again next week at this same time for another exciting adventure of the Saints. Good night.

[Narrator]

Tonight's script of the Saint was written by Jerome Epstein. Our cast included Betty Lou Gerson, Bonnie Phillips, Stanley Farrar, Edmund McDonald and Tom Brown. The music was composed and conducted by Von Dexter. The Saints, based on characters created by Leslie Charteris, is a James L. Safier production and is directed by Helen Mack. Vincent Price is soon to be seen co starring in RKO's production his kind of Woman. All you Saint fans will be glad to know that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Your announcer is Don Stanley. Tomorrow night here Nightbeat, the story of Chicago after dark. Listen as Randy Stone searches the city for adventure and a story of mystery and intrigue. Nightbeat is another great action packed program, so be sure to listen tomorrow night and every Monday night to Night Beat. Next, Sam Spade cuts the caper. Then hear Dorothy Maynard on NBC.