Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Wayward Money Matter 4/13/1958

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Wayward Money Matter
Release Date: March 31, 2025

---

Introduction

In this riveting episode of "Yours Truly Johnny Dollar," hosted by Choice Classic Radio, listeners are immersed in the suspenseful investigation of a substantial financial discrepancy within the Trillingham Tobacco Company. This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, pivotal moments, and the clever maneuvers of the titular insurance investigator, Johnny Dollar.

---

Case Overview

The episode centers around Fred Norwood from the Northeastern Indemnity Association approaching Johnny Dollar with a perplexing case:

• Missing Funds: "$111,421 missing from a safe." — Fred Norwood (02:40)
• Suspected Culprit: The company’s long-time bookkeeper, Elmer Cockerly.
• Company Details: Trillingham Tobacco Company operates as a middleman between small farmers and auction warehouses, dealing strictly in cash transactions to accommodate farmers preferring immediate payment.

---

Act One: Initial Investigation

Johnny Dollar begins his inquiry by scrutinizing the company's financial practices and initiating contact with key individuals.

• Expense Account Submission: Johnny provides a detailed account of his expenses, emphasizing his thoroughness: "Expense account submitted by special investigator Johnny Do." (02:40)

• Meeting with Fred Norwood:

  • Fred's Invitation: "For a nice long trip lined up for me, I'm afraid. Not this time. But if you can leave right away, I wish you'd run down to Baltimore for us." (02:30)
  • Discussion of the Safe:
    • Fred reveals the safe was not technically "cracked," but was forcibly opened, suggesting insider involvement: "You always keep that much cash on hand?" (04:14)

Johnny delves into the company's operations to understand the flow of cash, recognizing the high-risk nature of handling large sums without bank security.

---

Act Two: Interview with Mrs. Cockerly

Johnny's investigation leads him to interview Elmer Cockerly's wife, Mrs. Cockerly, uncovering deeper layers of the case.

• Scene Setting: Johnny arrives at Mrs. Cockerly’s home, prompting immediate tension.

• Mrs. Cockerly's Perspective:

  • Dismissive of Elmer: "I tell you, go ask that trillium." (14:14)
  • Motivations Unveiled: She expresses deep resentment towards Elmer, hinting at possible motives: "I gotta have somebody. I can lord it over him." (13:57)
  • Suspicion Cast: Mrs. Cockerly subtly shifts suspicion back onto Johnny: "You think I can't use that kind of money?" (12:30)

• Confrontation Intensifies:

  • Mrs. Cockerly's Accusations: "You did it." (20:49)
  • Johnny's Skepticism: He challenges her credibility and motives: "I don't believe you'd live 10 minutes with a man if you really felt that way about him." (13:03)

The dialogue reveals Mrs. Cockerly’s possible involvement and sets the stage for the episode’s climax.

---

Act Three: Resolution and Conclusion

Johnny follows leads that culminate at Hans's Bridge, where critical evidence surfaces.

• Discovery at Hans's Bridge:

  • Elmer’s Fate: Elmer Cockerly is found deceased, with most of the missing money lost to the creek: "Most of that hundred thousand went floating down the creek when Cockley and his car rolled over into it." (17:31)

  • Forensic Evidence:

    • Physical Injuries: Unusual bruises suggest foul play: "This bruise, this mark on the back of his head, he really got banged around." (18:19)

  • Confronting Mrs. Cockerly: Johnny accuses her based on the evidence: "You slugged him, put him behind the wheel of his car, then ran it down the embankment into the creek." (20:13)

• Final Accusation:

  • Mrs. Cockerly's Admission: Overwhelmed by evidence, she confesses: "You did it." (20:49)
  • Johnny's Closure: He ties up the case with professionalism, ensuring justice is served.

---

Insights and Conclusions

This episode masterfully showcases Johnny Dollar's investigative prowess. Key takeaways include:

• Methodical Investigation: Johnny's attention to detail and systematic approach are evident throughout, from expense reporting to forensic analysis.

• Psychological Profiling: Understanding the motives and behaviors of suspects plays a crucial role in unraveling the truth.

• Twist and Resolution: The unexpected confession by Mrs. Cockerly underscores the complexities of human relationships and deceit.

Notable Quotes:

• "Why the why can be the best clue as to where to hunt for a man." — Johnny Dollar (06:06)

• "You think I don't deserve it?" — Mrs. Cockerly (12:30)

• "I don't believe you'd live 10 minutes with a man if you really felt that way about him." — Johnny Dollar (13:03)

---

Conclusion

"Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Wayward Money Matter" is a compelling narrative that delves into the intricacies of financial fraud and personal vendettas. Through sharp dialogue and suspenseful storytelling, the episode not only entertains but also offers a glimpse into the meticulous nature of insurance investigations during the Golden Age of Radio.

For those who cherish classic detective tales, this episode stands out as a testament to the enduring appeal of Johnny Dollar's character and the timeless themes of justice and truth.

---

This summary was crafted based on the provided transcript and podcast information to offer a comprehensive overview for listeners and enthusiasts alike.

Transcript

[Podbean Announcer]

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

[Chewy Announcer]

Podbean.

[Podbean Announcer]

Podbean.

[Chewy Announcer]

Podbean.

[Podbean Announcer]

Podbean the AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts. Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Chewy Announcer]

My school uses Podbean.

[Podbean Announcer]

My church too. I love it. I really do. With Chewy, get all the food your pets love delivered right to your door. Get a free $20 E gift card with your first food order. And get mealtime essentials from all the brands you love with an extra side of savings for low prices. For life with pets, there's Chewy.

[Chewy Announcer]

Ever notice your dog slowing down and having health issues and wonder what can I do to make them better? Well, my friend, add rough greens to your dog's food for 90 days and I guarantee you'll see changes that will amaze you. Greetings naturopathic doctor Dennis Black, inventor of ruffgreens here. And I invite you to give your pup the Ruffgreens 90 Day Challenge. In the first 30 days, you'll see shinier coats and increased energy. By day 60, your dog will have a stronger immune system, less shedding, improved joint function, all due to the live nutrients that you've added to their diet. And at 90 days, better digestion, reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and you may even have reduced their cancer risk. Fetch your dog a free Jumpstart trial bag today. Go to try roughgreens.com use promo code. Try rough. That's T R Y R U F F. Go to try rough greens.com use promo code. Try rough. You just cover the shipping. You don't have to change your dog's food to improve your dog's health. Just add a scoop of ruff greens. Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we.

[Podbean Announcer]

Bring to you the greatest old time.

[Chewy Announcer]

Radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe.

[Podbean Announcer]

To us on YouTube and thank you for donating at ChoiceClassicRadio. From Hollywood, it's time now for Johnny Duller. Fred Norwood, Northeastern Indemnity Association. Oh, hello, Fred. I haven't heard from you since that case down in Managua, Nicaragua. Got another nice long trip lined up for me, I'm afraid. Not this time. But if you can leave right away, I wish you'd run down to Baltimore for us. Baltimore? Hmm. That depends. Depends on what? How free I can be with my expense account in the seafood department. Chicotique oysters, soft shell crabs, terrapin soup. Johnny, if you can get us off the hook on this one, I Low key. Your expense account blind big one, huh? Over a hundred thousand. Murder, arson, $111,421 missing from a safe. Wow. And you're liable for it if it isn't recovered, huh?

[Johnny Dollar]

For the full amount.

[Podbean Announcer]

But who keep that much cash in a safe outside of a bank? That is the Trillingham Tobacco Company. But why? Better get the details from August Trillingham. If you'll take this on on a free winning expense account. Freddy, I'm your boy. Bob Bailey in the exciting adventures of the man with the action packed expense account, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense account submitted by special investigator Johnny Do. The Northeastern Indemnity Association, Hartford, Connecticut. Following is an account of expenses incurred during my investigation of the wayward money matter. Expense account, item 1, 2630 plain fare and incidentals. Hartford to New York to Baltimore and a cab to the Sheraton Belvedere. After all, I could afford the best. Item 2. A 10 cent phone call to Mr. August Trillingham. He'd be glad to see me. Somewhere that name rang a bell. Item three, a buck 20 for a cab to the Trillingham Tobacco Company on Conway near Charles Street. It was a huge old brick building with what I guess you'd call a vaulted roof. Offices at one end of it. And the rest looked like a kind of warehouse.

[Johnny Dollar]

I'm glad you could get here so quickly, Mr. Dollar. The loss only occurred last night, you know.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, I left Hartford the minute the insurance company called me. So somebody blew your safe and walked off to the lobby.

[Johnny Dollar]

I opened the safe, Mr. Dollar, and took over $104,000.

[Podbean Announcer]

You always keep that much cash on hand?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes. Yes, because of the nature of our business.

[Podbean Announcer]

What do you mean?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, the tobacco was grown by the farmers hereabouts. Barn cured for a month or two or three, and then brought here. We graded according to quality and color and tied into hands.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hands?

[Johnny Dollar]

Bunches of 20 or 30 leaves, depending on size.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, I see.

[Johnny Dollar]

Then we pack it in hogsheads and ship it to the auction warehouses. We're kind of a middleman between the small farmer and the auction. I said small farmer, Mr. Dallow. Well, there are people for whom tobacco is only an incidental crop. There are a lot of them. Since we buy from them outright. They want cash, not checks or payment due the first of the month. Oh, no, cash.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, I see. And you're always gambling on what you'll be able to get at the auctions.

[Johnny Dollar]

That's right.

[Podbean Announcer]

Ah. How. How's business, Mr. Cunningham.

[Johnny Dollar]

Not as good as I'd like, of course, but I'm sure it'll pick up later in the year. Why do you ask?

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, just wondered. In a matter like this, I want to know all I can.

[Johnny Dollar]

I suppose. You said that as though you meant to imply that.

[Podbean Announcer]

Why? I meant to imply nothing. Look, you said that safe wasn't cracked.

[Johnny Dollar]

I said it was opened. And I'm sure I know by whom.

[Podbean Announcer]

What? Well, then why send for me?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, after all, the liability is now your company.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, who did it?

[Johnny Dollar]

For years we've had a bookkeeper, little pipsqueak of a man named Elmer Cockley. Well, if he must be here 15 or 20 years, even before I bought this business.

[Podbean Announcer]

You haven't always owned it?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, no, no, no. I made my money during the late twenties. Florida real estate.

[Podbean Announcer]

Ah. Oh, yes, yes. Seems to me I've heard something about your success down there.

[Johnny Dollar]

I retired, traveled around till the mid-40s and then decided to get back into the swing of things and I bought this business.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes, okay. Now, about this Elmer Cockily.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, a mild, timid, ineffectual, sort of. I suppose after 20 or 30 years of this dull, routine job, after seeing and handling so much money all the time.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, I see what you mean.

[Johnny Dollar]

Anyhow, at tax time I decided to have the accounting firm of Hanley, James, Chadwick, Kermer and Wormsbacker go over our books, just as a matter of course. And it was then that Elmer Cockery suddenly discovered that some of the records were missing. I see things balanced out at the end of the year, mind you, but those three or four months were missing. And it was during that period that Elmer had painted his home, bought a new car.

[Podbean Announcer]

Didn't you investigate immediately?

[Johnny Dollar]

Of course.

[Podbean Announcer]

Seems to me it was then that you should have sent for me.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, since our business is strictly cash, both in and outgoing, there was nothing we could pin on him. What's more, he was as concerned as I was, apparently, after all, since things finally balanced out. But I wonder.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, I should think you would.

[Johnny Dollar]

And now, since he's the only other person who could open the safe.

[Podbean Announcer]

What does he say about this robbery?

[Johnny Dollar]

He didn't come in the spotting. I called his wife. She hasn't seen him since he left for work yesterday morning.

[Podbean Announcer]

You know where he lives? Yes. Do you have a description of his car, license and so on?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes, yes, I have.

[Podbean Announcer]

Okay, Mr. Turningham, I'll notify the police from here. Then I'm going out to his house to see what I can learn there. May I use Your phone, of course. Yeah. It wouldn't be the first time a timid soul had finally felt his oats had run off with company money. And usually that type was hard to find. The methodical mind always planned things well, including a getaway. Item four, 80 cents taxi to a car rental agency. Item five, 50 bucks deposit. And I drove to Elmer Cockerly's home a few blocks off Wilkins Avenue, west of town. I wondered why the old fella had done it. Sometimes the why can be the best clue as to where to hunt for a man. You know something? A good part of the why became very clear when the door of Elmer's house was open. Act two of yours Truly, Johnny Dollar, in a. And now act two of yours Truly, Johnny Dollar and the Wayward Money matter.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Yes? What do you want?

[Podbean Announcer]

Mrs. Cockerly?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I'm Mrs. Cockerly. Who are you?

[Podbean Announcer]

Johnny Dollar, insurance investigator.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Insurance investigator? I haven't even filed a claim on Elmer yet.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, you think your husband is dead, Mrs. Conkerly?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Of course he is. You think for a minute he'd walk out on me?

[Podbean Announcer]

That's why you think he's dead.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Ain't that enough?

[Podbean Announcer]

You've talked with Mr. Trillingham this morning?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Of course I have. He wanted to know where Elmer was. I wanted to know where Elmer was. Neither of us knowed, so that was that. So when they find his body, I'll collect his insurance and that'll be that. And I won't have that helpless little worm around underfoot no more. No more having the baby and nurse him and tie his tie and feed him.

[Podbean Announcer]

Mrs. Conkle, sir?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

The only reason that little shrimp would dare not come home is if somebody done him in. And when you find him, you can come around and pay me his insurance. And that's that.

[Podbean Announcer]

That's all you can do. Just a minute. Did Mr. Trillingham tell you that over $100,000 was taken from the safe at the office?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

No, the Elmer didn't do it. I know he didn't do you working his fingers to the bone year after year, handling all that money and him and me just scraping along. Why, if it wasn't for Beneficial Finance helping us along now and then, I don't know what we'd have done. Yeah, well, I told him more than once if he wasn't such a spineless little mouse, he'd help himself to some of that money. They'd never miss it being a cash business like it is. And Lord knows he deserves some of it.

[Podbean Announcer]

What'd he say to that?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Scared him. Made him angry, so I'd keep rubbing it in.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, great marriage you two had.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Sometimes he'd scream and yell like a baby.

[Podbean Announcer]

He'd dare to scream at you.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I'd let him. I got so sick of him. It did me good to see him blow his top. Believe me, I told him more than once, if I was in his place, I wouldn't hesitate. Well, go ahead. He says, go ahead. And he give me. Go ahead, he says.

[Podbean Announcer]

He gave you what? Mrs. Cockily. The combination to the safe Podbean. Your message amplified. Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean. Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Chewy Announcer]

Use Podbean to record your podcast. Use PodBean AI to optimize your podcast. Use PodBean AI to turn your blog into a podcast.

[Podbean Announcer]

Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere. Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Chewy Announcer]

Ever notice your dog slowing down and having health issues and wondering, what can I do to make them better? Well, my friend, add rough greens to your dog's food for 90 days and I guarantee you'll see changes that will amaze you. Greetings naturopathic doctor Dennis Black, inventor of ruffgreens here, and I invite you to give your pup the Ruffgreens 90 Day Challenge. In the first 30 days, you'll see shinier coats and increased energy. By day 60, your dog will have a stronger immune system, less shedding, improved joint function, all due to the live nutrients that you've added to their diet. And at 90 days, better digestion, reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and you may even have reduced their cancer risk. Fetch your dog a free Jumpstart trial bag today. Go to try roughgreens.com use promo code. Try rough. That's T R Y R U F f. Go to try rough greens.com. use promo code. Try rough. You just cover the shipping. You don't have to change your dog's food to improve your dog's health. Just add a scoop of ruff greens.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Yes, he did. So what of it? So maybe I went down there and robbed it last night.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, how did you know it was last night? I didn't tell you that.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

All right, all right, maybe I did. I'd like to see you put it on me.

[Podbean Announcer]

Maybe I will.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

You think I can't use that kind of money? You think I don't deserve it? After struggling all these years caring for him for nothing because he didn't have the gumption to get what he should have.

[Podbean Announcer]

You know something, Mrs. Conkley? I doubt if you ever gave him a chance to show any gumption.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Do you know Elmer? Did you ever see him?

[Podbean Announcer]

No.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

And look. Look at his picture here on the hall. A baby. That's all he is.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right. You've made with a lot of big, noisy talk. Now, just probably most of it's a lie. I don't believe you'd live 10 minutes with a man if you really felt that way about him.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Look, mister.

[Podbean Announcer]

But there must be some reason for it. Some reason for trying to make me suspect you.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I told you. Maybe you did do it.

[Podbean Announcer]

Did you?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I'd like to see you prove it.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, I don't think you did.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I'd like to see you prove that.

[Podbean Announcer]

I think all you're trying to do is cover up for him. Protect him. And I'll say this. You're taking a mighty offy way to do it.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Now, listen.

[Podbean Announcer]

Where is he?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

You really think Elmer. Little Elmer could have. No, no. He really didn't have the gumption.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right. Who else?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

He couldn't have missed it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Allah.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Outside of his books and figures at that office, he. He could hardly take care of hisself. That's why he needed me to tell him what to do and feed him and take care of him.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, this is quite a change of pace, Mrs. Cockerly.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

So maybe I did make him toe the line. So what about it? He liked it. Some people are that way, just like me. I gotta have somebody. I can lord it over him. Anything wrong with that?

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, I don't believe a thing you said.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Oh, you don't?

[Podbean Announcer]

Now, where is he? Where is Elmer?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I don't know.

[Podbean Announcer]

And if he didn't rob that safe, who did?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

He couldn't. How should I know? Why don't you ask that August Trillingham, his fancy boss that's kept him and me starving all these years. Did you think of him?

[Podbean Announcer]

Everybody's a suspect at a time like this, including you.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

His friend the boss used to go catfishing together up the creek. Great privilege for poor little Elmer to go fishing with the boss who made all the money. That's where I thought he was last night when he didn't come home to supper. When he wasn't home all night, poor dear.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right, Mrs. Cockerly, just quit acting. Somebody stole that money. And apparently only three people knew the combination of that safe. Trillingham, your husband and you.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I tell you, go ask that trillium.

[Podbean Announcer]

Only one of the three has run Out? Disappeared. No.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

No, I'll never believe that Elmer did it. He could.

[Podbean Announcer]

Sure he could. Anybody could. Now, where is he?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I don't know.

[Podbean Announcer]

I think you do.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

No.

[Podbean Announcer]

And you're trying to protect him. Or are you waiting to hear from him so you can join him? Him and the money?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

That isn't true.

[Podbean Announcer]

Then why isn't he here if half of what you told me is true?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Because he. Because.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, Go answer the phone. Hello?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Yes, I'm her. Who? Oh. Oh. Oh, just a minute. Sergeant Macklin, he says.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, the man I talked to at police headquarters. Nice. Johnny Dollar. This is Macklin, Mr. Dollar. Yeah, Mack. Looks like it's all sewed up. Yeah? Who? Elmer Cockerly. Driver's license, identification. You found the money? Well, what's left of it.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

They got the money, did they?

[Podbean Announcer]

You know what Cockerly looks like? I've seen this picture. Well, then maybe you better come out here. Where? Hans's Bridge. Hans's Bridge?

[Mrs. Cockerly]

It's where we used to go catfishing all the time.

[Podbean Announcer]

It's about nine miles up the creek north of town. Okay. I'll see you there.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah.

[Podbean Announcer]

I want you to see if you can identify Cockerly's body. Oh, I see. Act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar, in a moment. And now, act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the wayward money matter. Without telling Mrs. Cockerly what I'd learned over the first, I took off on my rental car for the creek north of town. For Hans's Bridge. Yeah, this was a crazy case if ever there was one. Elmer Cockerly, bookkeeper for the tobacco company, was the only real suspect in the $104,000 robbery. And where there's only one suspect, I always begin to wonder. But who else was there? His wife, maybe. She'd done everything she could to confuse me. The owner of the company, Trillingham. Yeah, I thought of him, too. Until I got the word from the police that they'd found Elmer Cockerly, or what was left. They found the money, too, or what was left of it. What's left of it is right Dollar. I'm afraid most of that hundred thousand went floating down the creek when Carcally and his car rolled over into it. Now we'll see how much of the dough is still inside when we get the car up on the bank. How do you figure it happened, Sergeant? The old boy was making his getaway is all going too fast when he hit the turn onto the bridge and floppo into the creek. Wouldn't there be skid marks, Max? Well, he wouldn't have to be going very fast now. Look, car is up on the bank. Now, come on. How do you know it's Elmer Cockley? Inside of it.

[Johnny Dollar]

License number.

[Podbean Announcer]

And one of the boys dove in.

[Johnny Dollar]

Brought up his wallet.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, here she is, Sergeant. High and.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, high and wet.

[Podbean Announcer]

Okay, let's.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, have a look.

[Podbean Announcer]

Only a few small bills in there. Rest of the dough must be out in Chesapeake Bay by now. All right, boy, take a look.

[Johnny Dollar]

Dollar.

[Podbean Announcer]

That cockerly in there? Yeah. Yeah, that's Elmer. You think he drowned? Yeah, or banged around so hard when the car plunged in. See the bruises on his face and chest? Yeah, not pretty. And Mac, well, that's that. Just one more who tried and didn't get away with it. I wonder when they'll learn that it just.

[Johnny Dollar]

What's that?

[Podbean Announcer]

A little scrap of paper out of his pocket. Torn only part of it, see? Night pants. Cat.

[Johnny Dollar]

Cat.

[Podbean Announcer]

And, Mac, look here. You know what? This bruise, this mark on the back of his head, he really got banged around. Show me one thing in this car that could leave a mark like this. Most anything. Door handle, top of the steering post. No, sir. All the other bruises are on his face, his chest. And there's only one thing I know that leaves a mark like this. Better get the coroner out here before you touch anything. See you later. Look, where you going? I'll see you later. Now what under the.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yes, I heard it from the police department, Mr. Dollar and I. Well, in spite of what I told you earlier, it's hard to believe.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, it is.

[Johnny Dollar]

He'd been such a loyal soul all those years. But I suppose all that cash and it was a bit more than usually kept in the safe. I suppose it was just too much.

[Podbean Announcer]

Of a temptation for him or for any other man. Even you, for instance.

[Johnny Dollar]

What? Are you joking? So it's not funny.

[Podbean Announcer]

So business has been pretty bad lately.

[Johnny Dollar]

I didn't say that, Mr. Dollar. I merely said that.

[Podbean Announcer]

I know what you said, Trillingham, and I remember now what I'd heard about your big success in Florida real estate back in the 20s.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, I don't see what you're talking about.

[Podbean Announcer]

You were one of those guys who sold a lot of swamp and jungle, some of it underwater, to suckers from up north.

[Johnny Dollar]

I was young, an opportunist.

[Podbean Announcer]

You were a crook. You're a crook now. And a killer, Mr. Dollar. Natural to hang it on poor, timid little Elmer Cockerly. Sure, why not? He'd be the natural suspect in anybody's book.

[Johnny Dollar]

You realize what you're.

[Podbean Announcer]

Let's go fishing? Catfishing. Tonight at Hans's Bridge. Only you shouldn't have put it into a note to him.

[Johnny Dollar]

What note?

[Podbean Announcer]

The one I found on his body. So you met him there. You slugged him, put him behind the wheel of his car, then ran it down the embankment into the creek. You thought the rolling over would account for any bruises he'd get.

[Johnny Dollar]

Listen.

[Podbean Announcer]

But not that mark on the back of his head. The one made by the butt of a.38 Special. I've seen too many of them trilling him. Oh, I see. You still have it.

[Johnny Dollar]

That's right. And I'll use it.

[Podbean Announcer]

You didn't get away with murdering Elmer. You'd never get away killing me.

[Johnny Dollar]

I could go a long ways on $100,000. And before I let you stop me.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

Mr. Dollar, the police told me poor Elmer has.

[Johnny Dollar]

Close that door.

[Podbean Announcer]

You.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

You did it.

[Podbean Announcer]

Quiet.

[Mrs. Cockerly]

I don't know how, but you killed him.

[Podbean Announcer]

Quiet.

[Johnny Dollar]

And close that. Oh, I'll do it myself. Oh, buster.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah, he did it, Mrs. Conkley. And believe me, he'll pay. Well, so ends another dirty chapter in the history of crime. I hope the insurance on Elmer makes up in some small way for Mrs. Cockerly's loss of him. Well, I was going to say husband, but I guess Elmer was kind of a baby to her. To manage, to browbeat and to love. Expense account total, including transportation Back to Hartford, $104.70. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Our star will return in just a moment. Now, here is our star to tell you about next week's story. Next week, a fishing trip to Lake Mojave Resort. Fishing, that is, for a thief. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, originates in Hollywood and is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone, who also wrote today's story. Heard in our cast were Virginia Gregg, Edgar Barrier, Alan Reed, Vic Perrin and Frank Nelson. Be sure to join us next week, same time and station, for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dolly. This is Dan Cubberley, spe. This is the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service.