Encore - Four for the 4th

Summary

Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)

Episode: Encore - Four for the 4th

Release Date: July 5, 2026
Host: Mean Streets Podcasts

---

Overview

To mark the Fourth of July, Host Mean Streets Podcasts curates four classic radio mysteries, each interwoven with pivotal figures or moments from American history. This “Four for the 4th” encore features:

1. Young Mr. Lincoln (Academy Award)
2. The Pinkerton Man (Cavalcade of America)
3. Letters from Aaron Burr (The Whistler)
4. The Meek Memorial Matter (Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar)

The selections showcase Old Time Radio’s greatest detectives—both factual and fictional—solving crimes tied to the themes of justice, freedom, and the American story.

---

Key Discussion Points & Showcases

Introduction: Celebrating American Mysteries

Timestamp: 00:58–04:29

• Host sets the celebratory tone for Independence Day.
• Each chosen story features a mystery linked to significant American people or events, from Abraham Lincoln to the Gettysburg Address.
• Highlights the recurring theme: “America’s most famous detectives taking on cases that echo our nation’s history.”

---

Feature 1: Young Mr. Lincoln

Timestamp: 07:41–37:05
Show: Academy Award (original air: July 10, 1946)
Stars: Henry Fonda as Abraham Lincoln

Plot Outline

• The early years of Abraham Lincoln as a small-town lawyer.
• Lincoln defends the Clay brothers, accused of murder after a county fair scuffle.
• The townspeople threaten vigilante justice, but Lincoln insists on due process and a courtroom resolution.
• Through keen cross-examination and an almanac, Lincoln unveils the real killer by exposing shoddy witness testimony.

Notable Moments & Quotes

• Lincoln Quelling the Mob
  • “All I got to say is I can lick any man here hands down…” (13:06)
  • Lincoln uses wit and moral persuasion to prevent a lynching.
• On the Dangers of Mob Justice
  • “The trouble is, when men start taking the law into their own hands, they’re just as apt in the confusion and fun to hang somebody who’s not a murderer as somebody who is…” (14:18)
• Lincoln’s Empathy with His Client’s Mother
  • “You know, my mother, Nancy Hanks, would have been just about your age if she’d lived. I have an idea she’s been a whole lot like you, too.” (16:45)
• The Key Cross-Examination (‘Moon bright’ sequence)
  • Lincoln destroys the main witness’s credibility using Gowdy’s Almanac, proving it couldn’t have been bright enough that night for a positive identification:
    • “If it hadn’t been moon bright, you couldn’t have seen 100 yards, could you?...The moon was only in its first quarter and set at 10:21, forty minutes before the killing.” (29:02–30:16)
  • The real killer, Cass, confesses under pressure.
• Resolution
  • Lincoln humbly accepts thanks and payment and walks off into the evening, emblematic of American justice and compassion. (33:00–34:08)

---

Feature 2: The Pinkerton Man

Timestamp: 37:27–65:56
Show: Cavalcade of America (original air: November 18, 1946)
Star: Lee Bowman as Allan Pinkerton

Plot Outline

• Detective Allan Pinkerton investigates a year-old bank robbery and murder.
• Pinkerton works with his assistant, Collins, in a small Tennessee town.
• Focuses on Sam Arthur, a suspect showing signs of guilt and paranoia.
• Pinkerton concocts a psychological plan involving aftershave scent and staged “ghostly” messages from the victim to drive Arthur into confession.

Notable Moments & Quotes

• On Pinkerton’s Sleuthing Philosophy
  • “Ingenuity was the birthright of every American…” (63:48, end-of-show commentary)
• Innovative Psychological Play
  • “Psychology. Now, here’s what I want you to do…” Pinkerton preps his associate to unsettle the suspect using familiar smells and sounds, a rare early example of psychological detective work. (47:45–48:15)
• Arthur’s Breakdown
  • After a buildup of stress and suggestive cues, Arthur cracks:
    • “I killed a man. Ben Walters. But I didn’t mean to…It’s like he’s come back. He’s come back. Quillen.” (60:49)
• Closing Commentary
  • Bowman salutes Pinkerton’s legacy:
    • “America’s Alan Pinkerton used psychological methods to solve a crime so long ago. Pinkerton believed that ingenuity was the birthright of every American.” (63:47)

---

Feature 3: Letters from Aaron Burr

Timestamp: 67:27–92:57
Show: The Whistler (original air: November 20, 1949)
Star: Wally Mayer as Ernie Madden

Plot Outline

• Recently released con Ernie Madden is caught up in a prison-forged American artifact scam—fake Aaron Burr letters smuggled by seamstresses.
• Louise Fenton, ostensibly a “charity worker,” actually runs the smuggling operation.
• Ernie gets wise and muscle in for a share, leading a tense partnership.
• The scheme collapses when the police intervene, and the forgeries are discovered.

Notable Moments & Quotes

• Classic Noir Dialogue
  • “Clothes make a new man. ... She won’t know me when I come out of here.” (71:29–71:46)
• Cynical Banter with Louise
  • “Not a watchdog. A social secretary. And not charity.” (72:55–72:59)
  • “Fenton and Madden. No, no, no. Madden and Fenton. Well, that sounds kind of nice, huh, partner?” (76:25)
• Irony of Crooked Patriotism
  • The historic forgeries are sold, but Louise is eventually caught:
    • “They’ve got us dead to rights. When they check this letter, they’ll find it’s not a forgery. I bought the original Aaron Burr letter and sent it to Pop to copy…” (93:19)

---

Feature 4: The Meek Memorial Matter

Timestamp: 95:39–122:27
Show: Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar (original air: March 3, 1957; AFRS rebroadcast)
Star: Bob Bailey as Johnny Dollar

Plot Outline

• Johnny Dollar investigates the disappearance of a historic, original draft of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address from a small museum owned by reclusive collector Mariah Meek.
• The speech’s unique word count (“266 words,” not including “under God”) becomes the key for authentication—this historical trivia provides an unusual clue.
• The investigation detours through family infighting, a suspicious art dealer, and a murdered tipster.
• Johnny exposes the theft, a switch with a less valuable copy, and brings the guilt to light just as Mariah Meek passes away.

Notable Moments & Quotes

• Historic Trivia as Detective Work
  • “Total number of words: 268. But the first two drafts of that speech…contained only 266 words. The phrase ‘under God’ does not appear in the first two drafts…” (97:46–98:12)
• Johnny’s Trademark Wit
  • “A hot camera would be easier to pedal, sure, but…wealthy people like Mrs. Meek, they make a hobby of collecting things. …They take it and put it in the vault and keep it there.” (99:40–100:05)
• Unmasking the Criminal
  • “You switched copies of the manuscript, replacing that draft with one containing the words ‘under God,’ which isn’t worth anything close to 100 grand.” (120:08)
• Bittersweet Ending
  • “As for the Meeks, well, Mariah passed on later that night, but as she said, there was nothing left for her but to rest.” (121:22)

---

Memorable Quotes & Moments

• Henry Fonda as Lincoln, on Justice:

  • “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. That’s all I’ve got to say, friends. Good night.” (15:42)

• Pinkerton’s Psychological Edge:

  • “Psychology. Now, here’s what I want you to do…I’ll see that Arthur doesn’t go near his room until after you finish the job…” (48:11)

• The Whistler’s Irony:

  • “It’s over, Ernie. You’ve sold the Aaron Burr letter to Mr. Slagle and he’s given you and Louise the $25,000. It’s fantastic, isn’t it?” (90:30)

• Johnny Dollar, On “Under God”:

  • “The phrase ‘under God’ was not in the manuscript he sold your grandmother. But it was in the copy old Pete has been sold studying in the museum.” (120:38)

---

Conclusion

Timestamp: 123:24—End

• Host thanks listeners, promotes upcoming “stars on suspense,” invites ratings/reviews, and leaves with a classic sign-off:
  • “I’ll be back next week with more Old Time Radio crime fighters. Until then, good night and happy listening, Sam.” (123:24)
• Ends with a powerful anti-prejudice message from Vincent Price, urging Americans to judge neighbors “by the character of their lives alone.” (124:40)

---

Key Themes & Tone

• Patriotism & Justice: Each story is steeped in Americana—the evolution of justice and the dangers of mob rule, ingenuity in detective work, the dark side of American ambition, and the preservation (or theft) of historic legacy.
• Nostalgic and Celebratory: Tone is warm, knowledgeable, and slightly sentimental, seasoned with old-time radio charm, dry humor, and the moral earnestness of classic detective fiction.
• Critical Reflection: Listeners are invited to consider not just the mysteries, but what these tales say about the American character—its strengths, dangers, and ideals.

---

Episode Structure (with Timestamps for Main Content)

| Segment | Timestamps | |-------------------------------------------|-----------------| | Host’s Introduction & Show Previews | 00:58–04:29 | | Young Mr. Lincoln | 07:41–37:05 | | The Pinkerton Man | 37:27–65:56 | | Letters from Aaron Burr | 67:27–92:57 | | The Meek Memorial Matter | 95:39–122:27 | | Host’s Closing & Social Message | 123:24–End |

---

For OTR fans and newcomers alike, this “Four for the 4th” episode is a nostalgic ride through American mythology, detective lore, and the ongoing promise—and peril—of freedom and justice.

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

Get this and get it straight.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison of the grave. The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

The Adventures of Sam Spade Detective the Adventures of the Saint starring Vincent Price.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Bob Bailey in the exciting adventures of

[Various Characters/Chorus]

the man with the action packed expense

[Narrator/Announcer]

account, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yours truly, Johnny Doll.

[Podcast Host]

Hello and welcome to down these Mean Streets with more old time radio detectives and crime solvers. This Friday is the 4th of July. It's hard to believe summer really is flying by. To celebrate America's upcoming birthday, I've lined up four old time radio mysteries, each involving major figures or events from our country's history. First, Henry Fonda recreates his screen role in a radio adaptation of John Ford's classic film Young Mr. Lincoln. The story of Honest Abe in his days as a lawyer and his defense of a pair of brothers charged with murder was presented on Academy Award on CBS on July 10, 1946. Fonda is joined by his film co star Ward Bond. And in this courtroom mystery with the future president out to clear his clients and catch the real killer. Next up is a story of Alan Pinkerton, the celebrated spy and detective who created the national detective agency that bears his name. Pinkerton rose to prominence for his role in thwarting a plot to assassinate Abraham Lincoln en route to his first inauguration. Now whether or not Lincoln was actually in any danger is uncertain, but Pinkerton made a name for himself off of the story. We'll hear Lee Bowman as the great detective in an episode from the Cavalcade of America originally aired on NBC on November 18, 1946. We heard an episode of this long running anthology show last week with Basil Rathbone as future U.S. president John Adams. Today we're joining Pinkerton as he investigates a year old case of bank robbery and murder. Along with Lee Bowman, we'll hear Bill Johnstone and Wally Mayer, the stars of the great radio police procedural the Lineup. Speaking of Wally Mayer, he stars in our third show today, Letters from Aaron Burr, a story by the Whistler that originally aired on CBS on November 20, 1949. The letters from the notorious vice president and other historical correspondence are phonies smuggled out of prison after they're penned behind bars by a master forger. Wally Mayer plays a recently released con who discovers the scheme and elbows his way in for a piece of the action. And finally, we'll hear Bob Bailey as America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator in the Meek Memorial matter from yours truly, Johnny Dollar. We'll hear an Armed Forces Radio Service rebroadcast of the show from March 3, 1957. Johnny's on the case when an original copy of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address is stolen. I'm afraid we don't have any fireworks, but we'll be celebrating Fourth of July with four radio mysteries beginning with Young Mr. Lincoln right after these messages.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

When a cloud bursts and fresh, clean

[Supporting Male Character]

rain falls on a grove of rich green pine, it's mmm, so nice.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

And now that same clean scent of pine is in new pine scented Lysol.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Right now, the one and only genuine

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Lysol brand disinfectant comes in a new pine scent. It disinfects, deodorizes as nothing else does, kills diseased germs on contact. In laboratory tests, Lysol's anti germ action

[Narrator/Announcer]

kept working for seven full days. A bottle costs as little as 29 cents.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

And it's so easy to use.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Just add new pine scented Lysol to

[Various Characters/Chorus]

your suds when you clean in bathroom, kitchen, nursery, sick room.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Use pine scented Lysol because Lysol deep cleans make your home pine sweet.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Lysol clean.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You can still get regular Lysol too. Your best bet for hot breakfast is Quaker Oats. The giant of the cereals is Quaker Oats. Delicious, nutritious, makes you feel ambitious.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

The giant of the cereals is Quaker Oats.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, if you want to be a star in sports and school activities, make your hot cereal Quaker Oats. Cause Quaker Oats helps grow the stars of the future. You get more growth, more endurance from oatmeal than from any other whole grain cereal. Remember, Quaker and Mother's Oats are the same.

[Gayne Whitman (Narrator for Dupont)]

Inflation can work the same way in peace that it did in war. Prices rise when goods are scarce and people have money. Instead of making your dollars shrink by spending them needlessly when prices are high, why not make them grow with interest by investing in United States Savings Bonds? Here's the way it works. $75 invested now each month in US savings e bonds will in 10 years turn into an income of $100 each month for as long a period as you bought the bond. It's as simple and as sure as that and easiest. When you use the payroll Savings plan without missing a dollar, you'll be amazed how savings grow the e Bond Way. $4 for every three.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Next week will mark national holidays for two great countries. On July 1, Canada commemorates the 84th anniversary of of its founding as a Nation. And on July 4th, the United States celebrates the 175th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. May we all recognize the importance of these two great days in our lives

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

and make continuation of our freedoms a

[Various Characters/Chorus]

must for ourselves, our children and the generations to follow.

[Johnny Dollar]

I dedicate this program to the fight against crime. Not merely crimes of violence and crimes of dishonesty, but but crimes of intolerance, discrimination and bad citizenship.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Crimes against America.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The house of squibb presents academy award. Every week, Squib brings you Hollywood's finest. The great picture plays, the great actors and actresses, techniques and skills chosen from the honor roll of those who have won or been nominated for the famous golden Oscar of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science. And now, E.R. squibbin Sons, manufacturing chemist of the medical profession since 1858. Bring you the distinguished actor Henry Fonda in Young Mr. Lincoln with Ward Bond. Young Mr. Lincoln as best original story of the year was nominated for the 1939 Academy Award. Mr. Fonda, as best Actor of the year was nominated for the 1940 Academy Award.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

This is a story about a long, lean lawyer named Abraham Lincoln. A young man full of droll stories and deep, quick laughter. A story of Abe Lincoln. In Springfield, Illinois, A fine summer afternoon at the fair is over. The barbecue fires glow red now in the darkness. And families are rounding up their children and seeking their wagons for the lazy ride back to town. Suddenly, a woman screams. A rush of running men. Blood spilled on a dark meadow. The hushed whisper of murder. The pioneer mother standing stark against the breeze, staring at her two sons, two boys. Suddenly, strangers standing over the body of a third lying stabbed. Death had come under the dark skies over Illinois.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

He's dead. Who done it?

[Judge]

Them fellas, Sheriff. Them Clay brothers. They was fighting with this here scrub white and they cut him. There's the knife they done it with. Which one of you Clay boys done this?

[Johnny Dollar]

Me.

[Judge]

No, me. I want the truth now. Which one of you cut him?

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

I did.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

That ain't so.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I done it, I tell you.

[Judge]

It was me he was going for, Adam.

[Narrator/Announcer]

With a gun.

[Judge]

One of yours? Lying. Now, which one is it? All right. Anybody see it?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I reckon I did.

[Judge]

Who are you?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Their mother.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, which one was it?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I'm not saying.

[Judge]

Well, it don't make no difference anyhow. Under the law, they're both equally guilty. Come on, now. You're both under arrest. Palmer, Cass, I appoint you temporary deputy. Help me get these two fellas down to the jail. Come on, you two, let's go. Who are these fellows?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Never Saw them around here before.

[Judge]

Strangers around here. Folks ain't got no right to come to town and start cutting. Two of them jumping poor Scrub and

[Various Characters/Chorus]

stabbing them in the back.

[Judge]

I said they ought to have her touch a rope. Rope?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Yes, sir.

[Judge]

That's the medicine, Father. Hey.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Come on, fellas.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Get a rope and hurry. No, no. They can't do that to my boys. They can't do that to my boys.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Come on, ma', am, we have to hurry. Those fellas mean what they say about lynch and your sons.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Leave me alone. What do you want? Who are you?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

My name's Lincoln, ma'.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Am.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Abe Lincoln. I'm your lawyer, ma'.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Am.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Come on, we better hurry and get down to that jail.

[Judge]

Open the jail door, Sheriff.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Let me out of here.

[Judge]

I can't, Palmer. They've gotta break in. Don't be a fool. They'll get us too.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Can't help.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

They'll have to bust in first.

[Judge]

We're going to get those murders, Sheriff.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

They ain't got a turn.

[Judge]

I can't open the door, boys. The law's got to protect these Clay fellas and give them a trial. Blow up the jail.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Get powder.

[Judge]

Powder.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Open up, sheriff. Who we get?

[Witness]

You.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Hold on, man. Hold on and listen to me.

[Judge]

Get out of our way, Licking. We're busting land.

[Supporting Male Character]

Jing.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I said listen to me and bite. Jing, you will. No, we ain't gonna listen. That's better. Now, gentlemen, I'm not here to make any speeches. All I got to say is I can lick any man here hands down. We know you, Abe Lincoln.

[Judge]

Come on, man, let's get him.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Hold on, Buck. I thought I'd find that big mouth of yours around here telling people what to do.

[Judge]

I'm Buck, all right. A big buck on this lick.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Then come out and whet your horns.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

What's holding you?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Maybe some of you other gentlemen like to take Buck's place.

[Judge]

Me? I can lick you myself.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Is that a fact, neighbor, or just your notion?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Get away from there, Lincoln, or we'll

[Judge]

give her to you too.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, well, if it's not Bill Gentry. First time I ever heard of you trying to break into jail, Bill. I thought you were too busy trying to break out.

[Judge]

Shut up. Come on, let's get him.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Howdy, Clarence. Last time I saw you, you're heading for the rock pile for beating up your wife. Ah, gentlemen, all joking aside, let's look at this matter from my side. You all know I'm just a fresh lawyer trying to get ahead. But some of you boys act like you Want to do me out of my first clients?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Go ahead, Abe.

[Judge]

Go on and talk.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I'm not saying you fellas aren't right. Maybe these Clay boys do deserve to hang. But with me handling their case, it looks like you won't have much to worry on that score. All I ask is to have it done with some legal pomp and show.

[Judge]

Yeah, but what about our side of it? We've been to a heap of trouble not to have at least one hanging.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Sure you have. And if these boys had more than one life, I'd say go ahead. A little hanging mightn't do them any harm. But the sort of hanging you boys had given would be so permanent. The trouble is that when men start taking the law into their own hands, they're just as apt in the confusion and fun to hang somebody who's not a murderer as somebody who is. Then, first thing you know, they're hanging one another from pure devilment till it gets to the place a man can't pass a tree or look at a rope without feeling uneasy. We seem to lose our heads at such times as this and do things together we'd be mighty ashamed to do by ourselves. For instance, you take Jeremiah Carter yonder. There's not a more decent, God fearing man in Springfield than Jeremiah Carter. And I wouldn't be surprised if when he goes home, he takes down a certain book and looks into it. Maybe he'll just happen to hit on these words. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. That's all I got to say, friends. Good night.

[Supporting Male Character]

Mr. Lincoln?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Yes?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Ms. Clay ain't one to talk much.

[Supporting Male Character]

But after what you just done for us tonight. Saving my boys from them. Them.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Now, now, save your thanks. Here, I'll give you a hand with those mules of yours.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Whoa.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Of course, you know, I'm just sort of a jack leg lawyer. That much experience at this sort of business. But as long as you want me, I'll do the best I can. Still, maybe you'd feel a lot safer if my partner was here. Or you could get ahold of Steve Douglas. I hear that silver tongue of his can be mighty useful with a jury.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

We don't know nothing about lawyers and things like that.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, I'll do the best I can. You know, my mother, Nancy Hanks, would have been just about your age if she'd lived. I have an idea she'd been a whole lot like you, too. A whole lot like you, ma'.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Am.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Thank you, Abigail. Clay, which one of your boys killed Scrub White?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I Can't tell you. I can't.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

But I'm your lawyer. You can trust me. I don't want to scare you, but we've got a fight on our hands. I gotta know what I'm doing.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I can't tell you, Mr. Lincoln. It'd be like choosing between em.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

What do you suppose made em both say they done it?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Matt said it because he's the oldest. And Adam said it because Matt's got

[Supporting Male Character]

a wife and a baby.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I reckon there's a lot of people who'd like to see those boys hang.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I know, but I just can't.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

No, I reckon you can't. Take it easy riding home, Abigail. And watch out for ruts. Get at mules.

[Judge]

Order. Order. Nicor, I'm a cast. Take the stand. You solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth to help you God? I do. What's your name? J. Palmer Cass.

[Witness]

You knew scrub White?

[Judge]

Sure, Mr. Felder.

[Witness]

I knew him the day he was killed. You'd been with him all day. Do you recall where and under what circumstances you first saw the defendants?

[Judge]

Well, we run into them at the pie contest. Scrub kind of took a fancy to one of their gals and and her fellow got sore. They followed us over near the tug of war and wanted to fight.

[Witness]

What did Scrub White do then?

[Judge]

He just laughed and asked them what they wanted to fight with. Knives, pistols or fists.

[Witness]

How did he ask that? Jokingly?

[Judge]

Yeah. He was laughing all the time.

[Witness]

Tell the jury what happened then.

[Judge]

Well, Scrub and me had a little argument. He went off by himself. Next thing I knew, I heard a shot and some shouting. And I run back and found Scrub lying on the ground with those two fellows standing over him.

[Witness]

And the knife was on the ground between them?

[Judge]

Yes, sir.

[Witness]

Where was Scrub's pistol?

[Judge]

In his holster.

[Witness]

So it went off then, while he was trying to get it out of his holster?

[Judge]

Yes, sir. Yes, it did.

[Witness]

Thank you. Your witness. Mr. Lincoln,

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

what's the J stand for in your name?

[Witness]

John.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Then why the J. Palmer Cass? Why not John P. Cass? Well, anything the matter with John P. No. Has J. Palmer Cass anything to conceal?

[Judge]

No.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

And what do you part your name in the middle for?

[Judge]

I got a right to call myself anything I please.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

All right. But if you don't mind, I'll just call you Jackass Argent.

[Witness]

Your Honor, I object to this ridiculous line of questioning. Mr. Lincoln's clownishness may win him a laugh from his friends, but I assure you his entire game of buffoonery is lost on this Jury.

[Judge]

Stick to the point, Mr. Lincoln.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I'll do my best, your honor. Now, J. Palmer. Cass. You say you and Scrub White had a little argument. What was this argument about?

[Judge]

I'd rather not say.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Oh, you'd rather not say. Well, J. Palmer, suppose I told you I'd rather you did say.

[Judge]

All right, if you want to know. We were arguing about politics.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

That's something new to argue about. What kind of politics?

[Judge]

Well, I've learned different now. But I said that I figured that you had more sense about politics than Steve Douglas. And Scrub, he got mad as a wet hen and said you didn't. Order. Order.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Looks like I scratched up a snake. Then I reckon we can allow all you said to go in. Step down.

[Witness]

Your honor, I'd like to call Abigail Clay back to the stand.

[Judge]

Abigail Clay.

[Witness]

You love your boys, don't you, Mrs. Clay? Who'd like to save their lives if you could? You were present the night Scrub White was killed, weren't you?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I saw him fighting.

[Witness]

Now, don't be afraid of me. I'm not a bloodthirsty man and prepared to offer you the life of one of your sons. Provided you tell us which of your boys stabbed and killed Scrub White.

[Judge]

Order. Order.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I can't.

[Witness]

Mrs. Clay, you believe in God, don't you?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Do you believe that if you take a solemn oath in the sight of

[Witness]

God and on his holy Bible. You are bound to speak the truth?

[Louise Fenton]

Yes.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

But I can't tell you.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I can't. Your honor, I protest against the prosecution's attempt to force this woman to decide which of her two sons will. Which will die. I have seen Abigail Clay exactly three times in my life, gentlemen. Yet I know everything there is to know about her. I know her because I've seen hundreds of women just like her. Working in the fields, suffering over some sick and helpless child. Women who say little and do much. Who ask nothing and give all. And I tell you that such a woman would never answer the question that's been put to her here. Never. I'd rather, Mrs. Clay, see both your sons taken from you. Than to see you break your heart by saving one at the expense of the other. So don't tell them.

[Judge]

Order. Order.

[Witness]

May it please the court to spare the jury any more of these harrowing outbursts. The state will withdraw the question. No doubt Mr. Lincoln will be glad to hear that Mrs. Clay was not the only eyewitness to the murder of Scrub white.

[Judge]

Order.

[Witness]

Recall Mr. J. Palmer Cass to the stand.

[Judge]

J. Palmer Cass.

[Witness]

Mr. Cass, where were you at the time Scrub White was killed.

[Judge]

I was about. Well, a hundred yards away. I reckon.

[Witness]

You saw the killing with your own eyes?

[Judge]

Yes, sir, I saw it.

[Witness]

Why didn't you tell us this before?

[Judge]

Nobody asked me.

[Witness]

Have you told anybody else about this?

[Judge]

No, sir.

[Witness]

Why not?

[Judge]

Well, I didn't want to help get anybody hung.

[Witness]

And why do you tell us now?

[Judge]

Cause it looks to me like both of them's gonna get hung.

[Witness]

How could you see so clearly from a distance of a hundred yards at 11 o' clock at night?

[Judge]

It was moon bright.

[Witness]

I see moon bright. And you clearly saw which boy pulled the knife?

[Judge]

Yes, sir.

[Witness]

The defendants will stand up.

[Pete (Guard)]

Now.

[Witness]

Tell us, Mr. Cass, which defendant stabbed and killed Scrub White?

[Narrator/Announcer]

That one.

[Judge]

The big one. Adam Clay. Your Honor, the state.

[Podcast Host]

Rest.

[Judge]

Quiet. Quiet. This court is adjourned until 10 tomorrow morning. Take the business away.

[Narrator/Announcer]

In just a moment you will hear the second part of Academy Award. This is the time of year when a vacation tan helps to focus more attention on your smile. And that's one reason why Squib Dental Cream is an important part of so many well made vacation plans. For this quality dentifrice. A member of the great family of Squib products. Helps to uncover all the natural brilliance of your smile. That's because the polishing agent in Squib Dental Cream is one of the safest, softest, yet most effective known to dental science. And you will like Squib Dental Cream for its refreshing flavor. Cool as a shady bed of mint. Its refreshing action that leaves your teeth and gums feeling gloriously clean. For Squib Dental Cream is three ways refreshing. You can taste, feel and see the refreshing difference. Something to remember when you're buying a dentifress. Ask for Squib Dental Cream. Taste, feel and see the refreshing difference. Use Squib Dental Cream. Before continuing with part two of Young Mr. Lincoln. We want to thank 20th Century Fox for making this story available. Henry Fonda and Ward Bond will soon be seen in the 20th Century Fox production My Darling Clementine. And now, the house of squibb presents part two of academy awards. Starring henry fonda in young Mr. Lincoln with war bond.

[Judge]

Pretty music you're playing there, Mr. Lincoln.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Why, hello, Judge. Mighty pleasant to see you this evening.

[Judge]

Doggone it, Lincoln, this is against all my principles. But I want to talk to you as an older man.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Go ahead, Judge, I'm listening.

[Judge]

What I mean to say, dad, blame it is, don't you think you ought to get some older lawyer with more experience to help you out tomorrow?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Are you suggesting I retired, Judge? Or Just some take a back seat.

[Judge]

I'm just suggesting that if you want me to, I'll speak to Steve Douglas.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I'm sorry, Judge, but I'm one of those fellas who don't believe in swapping horses in the middle of the stream.

[Judge]

Then at least change your plea. Accept sentence for your guilty client. And I'll guarantee that the state will be lenient with the other.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

That's a mighty tempting offer. Mighty tempting. But I'm afraid it won't work.

[Judge]

But, man, you'll send both defendants to the gallows as sure as the moon sets.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Maybe. But just the same, that's the way it's got to be. Good night, Judge.

[Judge]

Harder. Harder in the cartoon.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Your Honor, the defense would like at this time to cross examine the last witness for the state. J. Palmer Cass.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Jay Palmer.

[Judge]

Cass, take the stand.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Mr. Cass, yesterday you identified Adam Clay as the killer of Scrub White.

[Judge]

That's right. He did it.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

You're sure of that?

[Judge]

Sure I'm sure.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, I just wanted to know. Now, you say you were about 100 yards from the scene of the fight?

[Judge]

Just about.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Are you familiar with the land over there?

[Judge]

Yes, sir.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

What's the nature of it?

[Judge]

Well, there's a little clearing.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Any trees?

[Judge]

A few.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Where are they?

[Judge]

Between the clearing and the fairground.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

And you saw through these trees?

[Judge]

No, I was already through the trees when I saw them fighting.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Oh, I see. I suppose the clearing was lit up by light from the barbecue fires.

[Judge]

No, sir.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Then how'd you see so well?

[Judge]

I told you. It was moon bright.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Moon bright? If it hadn't been moon bright, you couldn't have seen 100 yards, could you?

[Judge]

No, sir.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

But you did see it.

[Judge]

I told you I did.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

And then the only reason you're telling us this now. Is that you feel sorry for one of the defendants.

[Judge]

I don't want to see them both get hung.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, I guess you wouldn't lie about a thing like that. Step down. Oh, Mr. Cass, I forgot. There's just one more question I'd like to ask you. You needn't bother to come all the way back to the stand,

[Judge]

Cass.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

What'd you have against Scrub White?

[Judge]

Nothing.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

And what'd you kill him for?

[Judge]

I don't know what you're talking.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Oh, yes, you do. Look at this book. It's Gowdy's Almanac. Go on, look at it. Look at page 12. The night of the murder. See what it says about the moon? That the moon was only in its first quarter that night and set at 10:21.40 minutes before the killing. So it couldn't have been moon bright, could it?

[Judge]

Order. Order.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

You lied, didn't you, Cass? You weren't trying to save these boys necks, were ya? You were trying to save your own, weren't you? Well, come on.

[Judge]

Weren't you? No. No.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Then why'd you lie?

[Judge]

I didn't lie.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

You did lie. That's just as plain as a nose on your face. But why? Come on, tell us. What made you tell a lie about that moonlight?

[Judge]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Then I'll tell you what I'm talking about. You lied because you and Scrub White had a fight. But it wasn't about politics. You never mentioned politics. That was your first lie, wasn't it?

[Judge]

It was politics.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

It was fighting about something else. Maybe it was money. You owed him money or he owed you.

[Judge]

No. No.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Maybe he was getting a little graft here and there and you wanted to be in on it.

[Judge]

No, sir.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, what was it?

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Come on.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

It was one of those things. Something that made you want to get rid of Scrub.

[Judge]

You're crazy. He was my friend.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Maybe. But just the same you lied. Now why? Why did you say you saw what happened when you didn't see it? All right, I'll tell you what happened. You heard a row. You saw a fight starting. And you ran over there and you saw that Scrub was still living. And right there on the ground, you saw the knife that Matt Clay dropped. And you bent down and picked up the knife.

[Louise Fenton]

No.

[Judge]

No.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

And your body hid what you were doing. And then you stabbed him. You stabbed him in the back and killed him. These two boys, Matt and Adam, each knew he didn't do it. And therefore each thought the other did. And their mother, Abigail, she saw the knife in Matt's hand. But she couldn't say so without putting a rope around his neck. But you. You killed him. And you lied. And your lie tripped you up. Your crude, cold blooded lie that was gonna cover up a crime you committed yourself. The lie you can't deny, now, can you? Answer me. You did kill him, didn't you? Didn't you?

[Judge]

I tell you, I didn't mean to. I'd been drinking and we had a little fight. But I didn't mean to.

[Louise Fenton]

Scrub.

[Judge]

Scrub was my friend.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I tell you, I only. You're a witness, Mr. Felder.

[Judge]

Get your hands off of me.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Let me go.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I didn't mean to kill him.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, I recognize there's nothing holding you people now.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

No, sir, there sure ain't.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

But you Boys, better not go around thinking you killed anybody again. You'll get yourselves in trouble. Goodbye, Matt. Take care of yourself.

[Judge]

Yes, sir. I'm a gonna.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Mr. Lincoln.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Goodbye, Abigail.

[Supporting Male Character]

We ain't got much, but after what you done.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Why, thank you, ma'.

[Ernie Madden]

Am.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

I hope all my clients will pay me as fast as you just did. Now, be careful, them mules going home. Watch out for ruts. Get at mules.

[Ernie Madden]

Go on.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Mr. Long.

[Judge]

Mr. Waker. Oh, there you are, Abe. I had a heck of a time finding you.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Oh, evening, Judge.

[Judge]

Abe, I wanted to tell you I thought you pulled a brilliant piece of strategy today. And I'm sorry about trying to talk you into taking on an older lawyer, but I didn't know you had that ace up your sleeve.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Nothing to worry about, Judge. I might have done the same thing if I earned your boots.

[Judge]

How did you happen to hit on Cass as the guilty one?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Well, Judge, I. I got to thinking about Cass when he insisted on parting his name in the middle. Struck me he might have reasons for wanting to be secretive about himself. And when I found a copy of the almanac, that cinched it.

[Judge]

Where are you heading?

[Ernie Madden]

Lincoln.

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Oh, just thought I'd walk up the hill a piece. Judge.

[Judge]

The boys will be looking for you. What'll I tell them?

[Abraham Lincoln (Young)]

Oh, just tell them I got the smell of the country in my nose. I think I'll go on a spell. From

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Sam.

[Narrator/Announcer]

During the years when young Lincoln was practicing law, another young American was practicing medicine with the same hatred for all that was slipshod and untrustworthy. The young man was Dr. Edward R. Squibb. And he fought single handed to supply the medical world with something difficult to find and urgently needed. Drugs of unfailing uniformity, purity, efficacy. From his tiny laboratory, the beginning of the great House of Squibbing came not only the first uniformly safe, pure ether, but something even rarer. A new way of working in the production of medicines. A quest for perfection that was to continue unceasingly. It was a hope fulfilled for other doctors and surgeons of Dr. Squibb's own time. We look upon your cause as our cause. They wrote your enterprises as the inauguration of a new era. And yourself as the exercise exponent of the great principles of truth and humanity in array against dishonest stupidity. So began that continuing service in the cause of human health which for generation after generation has made Squib a name you can trust. Next Wednesday and no, another great picture. The House of Squib will present Academy Awards Starring Douglas Fairbanks Jr. And Virginia Bruce in The Prisoner of Zenda. Today's performance of young Mr. Lincoln was written for radio by Frank Wilson with an original musical score composed and conducted by Leith Steven. Our producer director is Dee Engelbach. Henry Fonda appeared through the Courtesy of RKO producers up till the End of Time. This is Hugh Brundage bidding you good night until next Wednesday at the same time when you're invited to listen again to Academy Awards presented by the House of Squibb, a name you can trust.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

This is cbs, the Columbia broadcaster.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Tonight, the dupont Company brings you the Pinkerton man, starring Lee Bowman on the Cavalcade of America. But first, here is Gayne Whitman.

[Gayne Whitman (Narrator for Dupont)]

Most accidents happen right in the home. Watch out for boiling water in the kitchen. Watch that electric light switch when you're taking a bath. Watch that dark flight of stairs, and watch out for rugs and carpets that may trip you or skid out from under you. Dupont Rug Anchor is a sponge rubber underlay designed to make rugs stay put. It makes them cling like a leech, no matter how slippery floors may be. And it adds to their life because it keeps dirt from working up from the floor into the back of the rug. Rug Anchor is one of the DuPont company's better things for better living through chemistry.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

The Cavalcade of America.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

America.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

America means skyscrapers and haylofts, the crack of a pioneer's flintlock and the sound of the river machine, the outline of a church steeple against the midnight sky. America is your story. America is you and everyone you know. Tonight we present Lee Bowman in the Pinkerton man on the Dupont Cavalcade of America. It is the year 1859. In one of the coaches of a train bound for Columbia, Tennessee, a man sits looking calmly at the countryside. He's dressed quietly, and he wouldn't look twice at him because. Well, because he looks like a hundred thousand other men. You've seen his name, Alan Pinkerton, America's greatest detective. As he sits, another man carrying what appears to be a sample case comes into the coach, looks around for a moment and then.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Excuse me, is this seat taken? What? Oh, no, no, no. Help yourself. Thanks. I hope you don't mind. No seats on the shady side of the coach. Oh, it's all right. Don't like to sit in the sun myself. Thanks. Oh, I'm sorry. I always have trouble with my sample case. I see. What is it this time, Collins? Ties, socks, handkerchiefs? What's it all about, chief? Where'd you get on last stop? Took a local. Caught this train from there. Good. Collins, I'm going through with a case. Yeah? That's for the figure, Chief. All right. What's my job? I don't know yet, but I'll have some use for you. Yeah, but Mr. Pinkett, any. Quillen? J.B. quillen. What? Well, that's my name. Get it? Oh, yeah. All right. A businessman. Retired. Health reasons good enough. Mr. Quillen, you stay at the hotel in Colombia. And you? A boarding house, I think. For how long? Well, I don't know. Depends on how tough this will be. Plenty tough, Chief. Cases a year old. Trails as cold as a dog's nose. Yeah, I know. I'll dig around until I find a lead. What kind of a lead? In a case that's growing a beard. Oh, that's my job, Collins. Now, when we get to Columbia, you get off first. Go directly to the hotel, sit tight, and I'll contact you. And that's the story, Collins. Don't sound good to me, Chief. Not a lead. Not a single lead. Well, a bank robbery and murder. That happened over a year ago. What can you expect? I don't know. Something. Anything. There must be something. Suspects? Four. President of the bank gave me the names. Collins. I've eliminated three of those people. Why? There's nothing to tie him in. In the first place, all the local police had to go on was suspicion. That's not much. But how about the fourth suspect, a man named Samuel Arthur. Anything on him? No, nothing. Nothing at all. But look, if Arthur's guilty of. You think he's the one, you got to have something. What about the money from the robbery? Not a penny of it's shown up. That's why I believe the job was pulled by someone in this town. Someone who was afraid to leave. Someone who killed the watchman, Walters, and then got panicky. Panicky? A murderer who's played doggo for a year isn't exactly panicky. He's smart. Waiting for the time he can leave. Collins, I'm changing boarding houses. Cooking bad at the one you're in now? No, the hunting's bad. Samuel Arthur stays at Mrs. Holly's boarding house. Here. Here's the address. All right, what's next? I'm going to find one lead, one clue that'll give me a toehold. I'll see you later. Your last boob gives me me a triple jump. And king me. Well, Mr. Evans, you'll win again. Yes, sir. I'm afraid I'm still the checker champion. Miss Holly's Boarding House. No question about that. I resigned here for another one, Mr. Quillen. It's only eight o'. Clock. No, no, no, thank you, sir. Tomorrow night, perhaps. Fine, fine. Well, think I'll turn in then.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, there you are. Have you finished your game, gentlemen?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Yep. Yep, and I'm turning in. You keep Mr. Quillen company, Edna. Make him feel right at home here.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, how long are you planning to stay, Mr. Quillen?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, that. That all depends. On what, Mr. Quillen? Well, on. On my health.

[Louise Fenton]

What is your ailment?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

My ailment? Well, it. It started a little over a year ago and I. Yes? Wasn't that Mr. Arthur who went past the door then?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, I didn't see, but I guess it was.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, well, excuse me, I. I'm rather tired myself. I think I'll turn in too.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, well, maybe we can have a

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

little talk tomorrow night.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, that will be delightful, Miss Oglethorpe. Good night.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Good night, Mr. Grillon.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

And.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

And sleep.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Night. Huh?

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Oh.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, thank you. Thank you. Hello. Oh, hello. Sorry I startled you, Mr. Arthur. Not at all, Mr. Quillen. Beautiful evening outside. Yes. Yes, it is. I. I was just thinking of going for a walk. You gotta come along. Well, I'm a little tired and I. Perhaps just around the block. No, No, I don't think so. Maybe tomorrow evening.

[Johnny Dollar]

All right.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Glad to. Glad to. Yes? Oh, nothing. Good night, Mr. Quillen. Good night, Mr. Arthur. Oh, Mr. Quillen. Yes? Are you planning on going into business down here? Business? No, no, I'm retired. Oh. Well, then you'll be with us for quite a while. Maybe. I. I don't like to stay in one place very long, Mr. Arthur. Like a change of scenery once in a while. I see. Well, I'll see you tomorrow. Good night. Good night, Mr. Arthur.

[Louise Fenton]

Why, Mr. Krillin, I. I thought you'd gone upstairs.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Yes. Well, I met Mr. Arthur. Stopped for a little chat with him. He's very nice, isn't he?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, yes, very nice. We're all so fond of him.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Has. Has he been living here long?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

No, I think about five months.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh. What does Mr. Evans do for a living?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Nothing. Nothing at all. I think he came into a little money some time ago, but there I.

[Louise Fenton]

I mustn't gossip, must I?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Well, no harm in that.

[Louise Fenton]

No.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, Mr. Arthur doesn't work either.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, Retired?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

It's hard to say, Mr. Quillen. I suppose he had some money saved up in.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, there I go again.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

It's all right. Well, good night. I'll see you tomorrow. Of course, we must have a longer talk sometime. Yes, sir. What can I do for you do you have cigars? Yes, sir. Any special kind you want. Well, let's see. Two of these, please. Yes. Well, nice store you've got here. Thank you. Yeah, I must keep you pretty busy running it. Well, kinda could use some help. I'll bet you could. Don't. Don't you have a clerk? Well, not now. I had one, but I had to let him go. He got to talking sassy to the trade, losing his temper. Oh, well, no wonder you let him go. Yep. I couldn't afford to have him give in trouble like that. Funny thing, too. All of a sudden he up and began acting like he was crazy. Well, now, that's funny. I wonder what makes people do that. You know, I had a cousin like that, nice as could be. Then one day, just like that, began acting funny. Same as Sam Arthur. Too bad. I like Sam. Everybody did. Yeah, that's the way it goes. Well, I'll see you again. Drop in anytime. Glad to have you. Thanks. Oh, excuse me. Oh, hello there. Oh, how are you? Fine. You got a match? My sure thing. Here you are. Be at your hotel in ten minutes.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

All right.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I've learned a couple of things that might interest you. And he was fired from his job because he got touchy and irritable. I see. Well, I learned he's been keeping to himself. Won't have a thing to do with anybody. Everybody seemed to like him before, though. Collins, suppose Sam Arthur has something on his mind, on his conscience? I suppose he has. What can we do about it? Find out what it is.

[Ernie Madden]

How?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

If he's guilty, which we don't know, he's kept it to himself for a year now. But that sudden break from his old life. Collins, I'm convinced his conscience is working on him. If it didn't make him break in a year, it won't break him. Now, I know that we've got to work on him, but you can't do that without getting him suspicious. Start asking a guy like that some questions and he'd shut up like a clam. You know that, Chief. We've had him before. Conscience is a funny thing, Collins. It shows the instinct for self preservation. Just let Sam Arthur get the slightest hint you're after him and you won't be able to touch him with a ten foot pole. Look, I've got a job for you. You'll have to go about it quietly, too. All right, what is it? Find out all you can. But I didn't. There's nothing about Sam Arthur you don't know already. I'm not talking about him. I want you to find out all you can about Ben Walters. Walters? But he's the murdered bank watchman. I know it. I've known that for a long time, Collins. Oh, yeah. I'm sorry, all right. But what good's he gonna do? You ever hear of psychology? Psychology? Never heard of it. You will. We'll use that and a little American ingenuity. Great combination, Collins. Now, go to. You are sure of all these facts? Positive, chief. Oh, what's, what's this about the perfume? Well, not exactly perfume. It was after shaving Sandy used. Crazy about the stuff. Used it all the time. And he. He talked like this. Mr. Quillen, this is the way I used to talk. Yeah, that's the way. You should have been an actor, Collins. I could have been a good one. You're going to be, huh? I've got an idea. Now, maybe it'll work. It's never been tried before. I don't get you, Chief. You will, Collins. Get a bottle of the scent you were talking about. Can you do it? Sure. But what's the idea? Psychology. Now, here's what I want you to do. I'll see that Arthur doesn't go near his room until after you finish the job I want you to do. Oh, Mr. Arthur. Huh? Oh, hello, Quillen. You want some company on your walk? Well, I wasn't going very far. Just out for breath of the air. Well, so was I. Confidentially, Ms. Oglethorpe was waiting for me. I see. She likes to talk. That she does. She doesn't care what she talks about, either. No, just as long as she talks. You sleep well last night? Sleep well? Of course. Why did you ask that? I was so hot. I was restless all night. I heard you and I thought you were restless, too. Almost dropped over to see you. No, I, I wasn't restless. No. Well, I guess I heard something else. Heard something? What? Oh, nothing. Nothing. My imagination, I guess. But since you were just next door to me, I thought it was you. Well, what are you talking about? Nothing. Nothing at all. You see, I, I, I don't sleep very well. Probably one of those half awake, half asleep dreams. Oh. What? What was it you heard? Oh, some sort of mumbling, like a person talking in his sleep. It wasn't I. No, no, probably not. No, I, I've never talked in my sleep. Well, I, I didn't say you did. I was just mentioning it. Forget it. It was more than likely it was me. Well, I've, I've got to leave you here. Oh, that's Too bad. Yes. I've got to get something at the store. Well, I'll walk with you. Oh, please. I'm going to stop and see a friend. Oh, well, then I won't trail along then. Good night, Quinaquilin.

[Gayne Whitman (Narrator for Dupont)]

I'll see you tomorrow.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

That was pretty smart of you, chief. The trailers, huh, Collins? Sure. Now what? How'd you do back in his room?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, fine.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

No trouble getting in at all. And locked in the connecting door between his room and yours was a cinch. All right, let's get back before he does. I'll go first. I'll let you in when the coast is clear.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

You are listening to Lee Bowman in the Pinkerton man on the Cavalcade of America sponsored by the dupont Company, maker of better things for better living through chemistry. As the second part of our story opens, Alan Pinkerton is trying to break a year old murder in rock case in Columbia, Tennessee. Certain that a man named Sam Arthur is guilty. Pinkerton is working on him. And Pinkerton's plan seems to be succeeding. For he and Collins listen to an argument going on outside his room.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Really, Ms. Arthur's absolutely ridiculous.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I know what I'm talking about, Mrs. Holly.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

And don't shout at me. I'm not deaf. And I don't like your insinuations that someone in this house was in your room.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Well, someone was. I tell you. Someone was in my room.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Dora. Within to clean.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Dora doesn't have to go into my dresser.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Now you listen to me. Dora's been with me for 15 years. She's a good girl.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I told you somebody was in my room.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I told you it was only Dora. If you don't like things the way they are around here, Ms. Arthur, you can leave now. Tonight. This minute.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I. Oh, never mind. Forget what I said. Good night. I believe it's starting to work, Collins. Maybe you're right, chief. Yes, I think so. But it's not enough yet. Hey, where you going? Stay here. I'm going to see him now. Who's there? Willen. Can I come in? What for? Just. Just to talk. Well, just a minute. What do you want? Well, I. I just heard you and Mrs. Holly thought I could do something. Anything wrong? Oh, it's Dora. I know she was in my dresser. Oh, really? How can you be sure?

[Ernie Madden]

Well, come here.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Come here.

[Ernie Madden]

Here.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

This drawer. Anything disturbed? No, no, but I know someone was in this drawer. I don't know how you can be so sure if nothing's out of place. Well, don't you. Don't you smell Anything. Smell anything? What? Well, yes. A peculiar odor, like perfume. No, nothing. What? Get closer now. I'm sorry, Arthur, but I'm afraid you've got too good an imagination. It's not my imagination, I tell you. There's some kind of perfume been spilled in my drawer there. It must be your nerves, Arthur, I tell you. I can't smell a thing.

[Ernie Madden]

You're.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You're sure of that? Look, why don't we get someone else? Evans. Ms. Ogle. No, no, please.

[Supporting Male Character]

Never.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Never mind. Well, but if you say it's here, I. I could be wrong, you know. Now, Evans, are. I said no. I don't want them in here. Well, all right. That's. It's all right. I guess it was my imagination. Sure, it's funny, but, you know, nerves and imagination can play tricks on a man. Especially when he's worried.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Who.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Who's there? Who's that? Just me, Mr. Oscar Quillen. Oh. Oh, you. Why didn't you answer the first time? Well, it. It's after 2 in the morning. I. I didn't want to speak loudly. Too hot to sleep, eh? For me, too. Yes, I. I came down to the veranda to get some air. It's not too cool here either. Sultry. It's one of those nights you read about. You know, the. The kind that makes you feel something's going to happen. Still, quiet air, the heavy humidity. Even the crickets are quiet.

[Ernie Madden]

I.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You were going to say something? No, nothing. Just look at that sky. Not a star showing. No breeze. Nothing. Just deadly quiet. I can see for myself. Oh, sorry. Excuse me. Your. Your handkerchief. A what? Handkerchief. What about it? That's where it comes from. You use it. You use it. Use what? What are you talking about?

[Supporting Male Character]

That scent.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

That's where it came from. It wasn't in my room. It was yours. Scent on my handkerchief. Oh, no. Absolutely not. Never use scent. I can't stand this. It's coming from your handkerchief now. I smelled it when you pulled it out. It wasn't here before. Now, look here, Arthur. I never use scent. I don't smell anything. No. No. I don't believe in things. Things like that. You don't believe in things like what? Man, your nerves are bad. It's not my nerves, I tell you. It's not my nerves. You ready, Collins? Yeah. Listen to him pacing back and forth. Get in the closet. You know what to say.

[Johnny Dollar]

Right.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Arthur. Sam. Arthur, can you hear me? This is Walter. Talk to me, Sam. Tell me why you did it. Sam. Who. Who's that? Sam, why didn't you talk to me. Tell me why you killed me. Sam, please talk to me. Arthur, what the hell is the idea of bursting into my room? Who are you talking to? Talking? Me? You're crazy. There's somebody in here with you. There's somebody in that closet. Oh, you are crazy. Why should anyone be in there? You were talking to someone. All right, all right. So I was talking to someone. Someone in that closet. Go ahead and look in. See who it was. Well, go on, satisfy yourself. Or do you want me to open it for you? No, no, please. Please don't open the door. Come on out, Collins. He's ready to make a break for it. Hey, he almost looked in. No, no, he didn't dare. He was afraid he wouldn't see anyone. Will, I. Hey, he's running away. Yes, I thought he would. All right, the next train doesn't leave Columbia for an hour. And in that hour we've got to hire two men and plant them on that train with Arthur. Excuse me. Is this cte? What? Why, Arthur, what are you doing on this train? Quiller. Well, this is fine. I thought I'd have to ride this train alone. I got a wire suddenly business up north. Oh, but you. Where are you going? Well, I, I. I haven't seen sister in New Jersey. I haven't seen in a long time, and I. Oh, you made up your mind suddenly, didn't you? Yes, yes, I was worried about her. Oh, that accounts for your nerves, eh? Worry will do that to a man. Oh, yes, Yes, I was worried about her.

[Sid Nolan]

I see.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Well, this is going to be pleasant. Still hot, isn't it? I thought. Well, what's the matter? Your handkerchief. My handkerchief? What's the matter with it? That perfume I smell. You do use it. What are you talking about? There's no scent on this.

[Ernie Madden]

There is.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

There is.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I can smell it. Oh, now, look, Arthur. I never use scent. It's your imagination again. I tell you it's not. You use the same kind of scent that he used. He who? Please, please, Quillin, don't fool me. What are you trying to do? I know it's your handkerchief. Look, Arthur, we can settle this easily enough. I'll ask the man in back of us. Excuse me, sir. I know this sounds a little.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Wait a minute. What are you going to do?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I'll just show you what your imagination can do to. To settle a bet. Will you smell this handkerchief and see if there's scent on it? Huh? Oh, sure. Nothing on that handkerchief. What? There, you see? Arthur, give me that. Sure, sure, Ask that man across from us. Mister, I. I beg your pardon.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Please.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Yes.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

There's scent on this handkerchief.

[Ernie Madden]

Will you.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Will you please tell me what kind? You crazy?

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

No, no, please.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Please. Just smell it.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

All right.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Nope.

[Gayne Whitman (Narrator for Dupont)]

I can't smell anything.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

What? Satisfied? Arthur? Quillen?

[Gayne Whitman (Narrator for Dupont)]

Quillin.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I can't stand it anymore. I've got to tell. I've got to tell someone. I've been living with it for a year and I. I can't hold it in anymore.

[Supporting Male Character]

I can't.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I can't.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

What is it, Arthur? I killed a man. Ben Walters. But I didn't mean to. He woke up and I had to hit him.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I swear.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I swear I didn't mean to. Didn't mean to, huh? Oh, it's been driving me crazy for a year. And this last week has been the worst. It's. It's like he's come back. He's come back. Quillen. Oh, I had to tell somebody or go crazy. It's better this way. Come on. What will they do to me? What will they do? I don't know, Arthur, but it's much better this way. We'll get off at the next stop.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Our star, Lee Bowman. Return in just a moment. But first, here is Gain Whitman speaking for Dupont.

[Gayne Whitman (Narrator for Dupont)]

Sound travels about 12 and a half miles a minute. And the new jet propelled planes are already flying 10. This means a jet plane flies right along behind the sound it makes. It's like something out of a rocket trip to Jupiter in a comic book. But it's a long way from being comic. When a plane travels near the speed of sound, air, unable to get out of the way, is compressed and piles up around the leading edges of the wing. Behind this shock wave, the air is rough. So rough that a plane may be torn to pieces. Aviation engineers are sweating out this problem right now. Among other experiments, for instance, the aircraft laboratory at Wright Field has designed an entirely new type of wing. Made of glass and plastic outside. To reduce skin friction to a minimum, it is finished and polished to a mirror like surface. Freed from rivets, overlapping joints and other projections inside, the construction is even more novel. Instead of being full of ribs and braces, the new wing has only half a dozen structural parts. The wing surfaces are made from several layers of glass cloth cemented together, supporting these surfaces and sandwiched between them and the internal structural parts is a foamed cellulose acetate plastic. Lighter than cork, this construction provides great strength and unusual rigidity in the wing surfaces. With all the resources of American business ingenuity at the service of aviation engineers. We have assurance that the combined efforts of scientific and business enterprise will keep American transportation in the forefront. The cellular plastic used in this new wing is a development of applied chemical research by the dupont Company, maker of better things for better living through chemistry. Now here's our star, Lee Bowman. Thanks.

[Ernie Madden]

Game.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You know, I've always been a great detective story fan, and that's why it was interesting for me to learn that America's Alan Pinkerton used psychological methods to solve a crime so long ago. Pinkerton believed that ingenuity was the birthright of every American. In time, he was to see worldwide distinction come to American detectives for their work in ensuring law and order for our citizens. The United States Secret Service, an organization Pinkerton founded as well as his own. Pinkerton men rank high in international prestige along with France's famed and Britain Scotland Yard. It was a pleasure gained to portray this remarkable detective on Cavalcade tonight. Thank you and good night.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Next week, the Dupont Cavalcade brings you Jean Hershel in Parade. It's the tender and moving story of Peter Barrick, an immigrant who believes in dreams and who believed in working hard to make those dreams come true. Be sure and listen next Monday to Gene Herold in parade on the Cavalcade of America brought to you by the dupont company. Our star tonight, Lee Bowman, appeared through the courtesy of Columbia Pictures, producers of the Jolson story. The music for the dupont Cavalcade is composed and conducted by Robert Armbruster. Our Cavalcade play was written by Russell Hughes. The part of Collins was played by William Johnstone and the part of Arthur was played by Walter Mayer, who appeared through arrangement with Metro Goldwyn Mayer, producers of the Yearling. This is John Hend inviting you to listen next week to Gene Hershel in parade on the Cavalcade of America brought to you by the dupont Company of Wilmington, Delaware.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

The cavalcade of america came to you from hollywood.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

This is NBC, the national broadcasting company.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

And now stay tuned for the program that is rated tops in popularity for a longer period of time than any other west coast program in radio history, the Signal Oil program. The Whistler.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

S I G N A L Signal.

[Johnny Dollar]

Signal.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Gas for me.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Signal. The famous Go farther gasoline invites you to sit back and enjoy another strange story by the Whistler for extra driving pleasure. The signal to look for is the yellow and black circle sign that identifies signal service stations from Canada to Mexico. And for Sunday evening, listening pleasure, the signal to listen for is this whistle that identifies the Signal Oil program. The Whistler.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

I am the whistler and I know many things, for I walk by night. I know many strange tales hidden in the hearts of men and women who have stepped into the shadows. Yes, I know the nameless terrors of which they dare not speak.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

And now the Whistler's strange story. Letters from Aaron Burr.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Beating down on the prison yard. The afternoon sun seemed to fade, the grayness somehow dwarf the height of the high walls. The prisoners, milling slowly about a standing in little groups, were talking quietly, smoking during their brief recess from the chores of the jute mill, the machine and print shops. Yes, it was a let up in the middle of the afternoon. An easing of pressure on both the men in confinement and the guards who watched them. And in a far corner of the yard, there was one man who actually felt happy, pleased with himself as he talked with an older companion.

[Ernie Madden]

You know, Pop, it's still kind of hard to believe. I guess I won't believe until I actually walk out of those gates.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I envy you, son. Wish I hadn't pulled that last forgery. Figured they'd put me on my feet.

[Ernie Madden]

But you figured wrong.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Me, an artist who can duplicate anything.

[Judge]

Ernie.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I don't want to prip it, Pop.

[Ernie Madden]

Skip it.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

They come to help you. The prison officials. People outside too. But it's still the same. Five bucks, a blue surge suit, a pat on the back. It might as well be a show.

[Ernie Madden]

Sure.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I like you, Ernie.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

You're all right.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I want to make sure you stay out of here.

[Ernie Madden]

So?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

So I'm asking you to do something. There's a place I want you to go. Somebody I want you to see. A Mrs. Alden.

[Ernie Madden]

Mrs. Alden.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

She's a fine, wonderful old woman. Tries to help people, lives just for that. You go see her tomorrow afternoon. Tell her I'm well. Talk to her.

[Ernie Madden]

I'll talk to her, Pop, about you and about yourself.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

If you need anything. Well, she's prominent in the Community Aid society.

[Ernie Madden]

I'll see Mrs. Alden for you, but I'm not looking for any handouts. Oh, there she blows. Back to work. I'll see you later.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I'll give you that address, honey. Mrs. Alden?

[Ernie Madden]

Yeah, yeah, sure, sure.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

You forget Pop Wiley almost immediately.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Yes.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Because you've other things on your mind, other plans. And the hours drag until the following morning when you're ready to leave. Ready to become Ernie Madden again rather than number 2214. And then finally, as the big gates open for you and you walk through,

[Ernie Madden]

there's a car waiting for you.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

And your old friend Joe Bennett reaches out to shake your Hand and pull you.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Hello, Wendy.

[Ernie Madden]

Good to see you again.

[Johnny Dollar]

Really good.

[Ernie Madden]

Thanks, Bennett. Thanks. Well, I see you got my letter asking you to meet me. Sure did. Come on, come on, get in. Oh, say one thing. Take a look across the street there. What, the dame?

[Sid Nolan]

Yeah.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You know her?

[Ernie Madden]

Never saw her before in my life. Funny. Why? She's been hanging around ever since.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Since I pulled up.

[Ernie Madden]

Kept watching the gate. Just sitting there in the car. Watching, waiting. Oh. Well, what do you want to do, honey? First? I mean, where do you want to go first? Take me to the best men's store in town.

[Pete (Guard)]

And then?

[Ernie Madden]

And then you can let me have a couple of hundred bucks. I want to get started. Right. Check.

[Pete (Guard)]

Yeah.

[Ernie Madden]

You can't beat this place, honey. Unless you want to go in for some tailored stuff. No, no, no, no. This will do fine. I just want to get out of this blue surge, that's all. Well, I'll see you later, Bennett. Thanks for the lift and the loan. Look, I'll go in with you and wait for you. Some of the boys want to see. No, no, no, thanks. You go ahead. Tell the boys. I'll look them up.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Well, okay. Hey.

[Ernie Madden]

Huh?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Ernie Madden]

Your friend, the dame, she's still with us, see? Across the street. Well, so she is. Well, she won't know me when I come out of here. Bennett. Clothes make a new man.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I don't like it.

[Ernie Madden]

Gotta find out what she's up to. Maybe I will, but not until I can make a better impression. Salon Kid Sal.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

You enter the clothing store and buy the suit you've been dreaming about. Then you have to kill some time, don't you, Ernie? While the tailor in the clothing store makes some hurried alterations on your new suit, you walk across the street to a small bar. You're about to slide onto a stool when you see something in the mirror. The girl again taking a booth only a few feet away. You turn and walk over to her.

[Ernie Madden]

Something on your mind, honey?

[Louise Fenton]

I beg your pardon.

[Ernie Madden]

And I beg yours, only I shouldn't. You've been following me, sweetheart, all morning, ever since I checked out of my last hotel.

[Louise Fenton]

If you'll sit down, I'll. I'll try to explain.

[Ernie Madden]

I'm listening.

[Louise Fenton]

But you didn't listen to Pop Wiley and go to see Mrs. Alden, did you?

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, you know Pop?

[Louise Fenton]

Mrs. Alden does. I work for.

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, sort of a watchdog to see the charity cases don't go astray.

[Louise Fenton]

Not a watchdog. A social secretary. And not charity?

[Ernie Madden]

No, no. Just a helping hand.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, word.

[Ernie Madden]

And what do you get out of it?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Not a living.

[Louise Fenton]

I donate my time. Not all of it, of course, but I'm there every evening. I. I also have a curio shop, you know, antiques, old manuscripts, objects of art.

[Ernie Madden]

I think a couple of martinis would be objects of art right now. May I?

[Louise Fenton]

Please. I know how.

[Ernie Madden]

How little you poor boys are given to start out again in the cold, cold world. Now you're wrong, honey, about me. I don't need a helping hand, a kind word or a loose buck.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Ernie Madden]

And don't let the blue serge fool you. I'm changing that too.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh.

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You won't know me.

[Ernie Madden]

I just bought me a complete new outfit. Taylor had to make a few alterations, you know, cuffs, sleeves, padding in the shoulders.

[Louise Fenton]

Really? I'd have thought in your case they'd have to take a little padding up.

[Ernie Madden]

Well, thanks. You're cute too. Oh, waiter.

[Louise Fenton]

Never mind ordering for me. I think you can manage drinking alone. You seem so self sufficient.

[Ernie Madden]

Okay. It's your loss, honey, I'm sure of it.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Goodbye.

[Ernie Madden]

You ought to stick around and see me with the shoulder paddle.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

You return to the clothing store and change to your new suit. As you leave, you look around, half expecting to see the girl again. You feel better now, don't you, Ernie? With a new suit on. And it gives you a certain satisfaction to pay cash for it. Tell the tailor to throw your old one away or give it to charity. Half a block away, you stop, turn as you see someone crossing the street. It's the girl again, isn't it? And she doesn't think you've seen her. You step back against a building and watch as she enters the store you just left. She comes out a few minutes later carrying something in a suit box. She crosses the street again, enters an alley. And that's when your curiosity takes over completely. You hurry after her. As she reaches her parked car, you see her take the blue Surge suit, which you discarded from the box. A moment later, she tears at the lining with a nail file and takes something out.

[Ernie Madden]

Hello, honey.

[Louise Fenton]

What do you want?

[Ernie Madden]

What do you got from the suit? I mean my suit.

[Louise Fenton]

You. You threw it away. The clerk said you didn't want it,

[Ernie Madden]

but you did, huh? Why? For charity? A less fortunate case, maybe?

[Louise Fenton]

Yes. Yes, that's it.

[Ernie Madden]

Now that isn't it. Let me see.

[Louise Fenton]

No. Give me that. It's nothing. You.

[Ernie Madden]

It's some sort of a letter. Signed by. Huh? Aaron Burr.

[Louise Fenton]

It's. It's just a joke.

[Ernie Madden]

On who? Not Aaron Burr. No. Hey, wait a minute, honey. An old letter smuggled out of the pen in my suit. Why?

[Louise Fenton]

Please give it to me.

[Ernie Madden]

I. I give it Pop. Pop Wily, the forgery artist.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Ha, ha.

[Ernie Madden]

I still have it.

[Louise Fenton]

No, that isn't true.

[Ernie Madden]

It's the letter that isn't true, honey. Just a clever forgery, huh? And say, say, it's pretty clever how you managed to smuggle the stuff out of there on the backs of the poor unfortunates.

[Louise Fenton]

All right, so what are you gonna do about it? Go to the police?

[Sid Nolan]

Me?

[Ernie Madden]

Honey, I never wanna see another cop. Say, this. This paper is special parchment, isn't it?

[Louise Fenton]

That's right.

[Ernie Madden]

Properly aged in the right texture, no doubt. How did you get it to the old boy in the first place?

[Louise Fenton]

If you must know, it was smuggled into the prison tailor shop where he works in the bolts of cloth.

[Ernie Madden]

You know, that's pretty neat, Miss.

[Louise Fenton]

Fenton. Louise Fenton.

[Ernie Madden]

Fenton. Fenton and Madden. No, no, no. Madden and Fenton. Well, that sounds kind of nice, huh, partner? Well, what's so funny?

[Louise Fenton]

It's going to be a short partnership, Mr. Madden. This is the last letter.

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, what's the matter? Papa's good old right hand getting shaky?

[Louise Fenton]

No, but the sale of items like this is.

[Ernie Madden]

Last one, huh? So how much do I get?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Half.

[Ernie Madden]

Half?

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, I should say about $5,000.

[Ernie Madden]

$5,000? Well, not bad. Not bad at all.

[Louise Fenton]

And now, partner, will you give me the letter so I can make arrangements for its sale?

[Ernie Madden]

With pleasure. Oh, and when and where do I pick up my dividend?

[Louise Fenton]

I'll have it for you. Where are you staying?

[Ernie Madden]

Well, the California Hotel, probably.

[Louise Fenton]

I'll bring it to you there tomorrow.

[Ernie Madden]

Good. And, partner.

[Louise Fenton]

Yes?

[Ernie Madden]

Don't get any ideas like this iron berg I had. I mean, pulling a fasty, shall we say?

[Louise Fenton]

Don't worry.

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, but I will. I'll be sticking close to you, honey, right up till we meet again when you deliver those 5,000 wonderful green clams. Yeah. Yet till then, I'll think of nothing else.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Tonight's $20 signal gasoline book goes to Clara E. Chestnut of Berkeley, California, for this limerick. A thrilled seeking driver named Pruitt was told Signal Gasoline would do it. So Pruitt did try it, and on this new diet, his old car took wing and he flew it.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Signal, signal, signal gasoline. Your car will go far, will go for the gasoline.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Maybe your car won't actually take wing like that of the driver in the limerick when you switch to signal, but you will experience, experience the next best thing to flying when you feel signal swift. Sure. Pickup signals smooth Effortless power. For in gasoline, pleasure packed performance just naturally goes hand in hand with good mileage. If you want to be sure of getting both, then the next time your gas tank gets thirsty, be sure you get signal. The famous go farther gasoline.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Well, Ernie, the advice from Pop Wily is about to pay off for you, isn't it? More than Pop planned.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Of course.

[Johnny Dollar]

He.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

He wanted you to go to Mrs. Alden's house for another reason, didn't he? So that his accomplice, Louise Fenton, could somehow manage to get your suit and the letter that Pop forged. The letter supposedly written over a hundred years ago by Aaron Burr and worth quite a sum in the current collector's market. Yes, you spoiled it all for them by catching Louise in the act of ripping the lining of the discarded suit given you the day you left prison. Now they're forced to include you in their highly profitable enterprise. There's always the danger, however, that Louise will be foolish enough to try to run out on you. And you wonder about it. After she leaves. You Wonder too, about Mrs. Alden and where she fits into the plan. You decide not to take any chances. That evening, you pay a visit to Mrs. Alden and surprise Louise.

[Sid Nolan]

Please.

[Louise Fenton]

You. I thought.

[Ernie Madden]

Sorry, honey. I got lonesome. Wanted to talk some more.

[Louise Fenton]

You shouldn't have come here.

[Ernie Madden]

Why not? This is where Pop told me to come in the first place. To see Mrs. Alden.

[Louise Fenton]

She's upstairs asleep. I told you I'd bring you the money.

[Ernie Madden]

I thought you just might have picked it up earlier.

[Louise Fenton]

I. All right, I did. Here, I have it for you. Just a minute.

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, it's okay. I'll just come in and sit down and we'll.

[Louise Fenton]

Who is it, Louise? Oh, it's Mrs. Alden.

[Ernie Madden]

So I'll see you.

[Louise Fenton]

No, you've got to leave.

[Johnny Dollar]

And Louise.

[Louise Fenton]

It's all right, Mrs. Alden.

[Ernie Madden]

Where does she figure?

[Louise Fenton]

She has nothing to do with it. Just an eccentric old lady. Louise, I didn't ask if it was all right. I said, who is it? Oh, why, it's only.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Never mind.

[Louise Fenton]

Now that I'm down here, he can answer for himself.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, young man?

[Ernie Madden]

My name is Madden, Mrs. Alden. I've heard about the wonderful work you're doing. I mean, with some of these boys getting out of prison. Oh, yes, and I. I'd sort of like to, well, help in some way.

[Louise Fenton]

Mr. Madden means a small donation, Mrs. Alden. Perhaps like the set of books you donated to the prison library.

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, no, no, Ms. Benton, that isn't what I mean. No, I want to Be actively engaged, help you perhaps be here for several days or a week or on call or. Oh, anything, Mrs. Alden. Anything at all.

[Louise Fenton]

Well, we can certainly use help, can't we, Louise? Yes, yes, certainly,

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Yes.

[Judge]

Ernie.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Your services are welcome to Mrs. Alden, not to Louise, of course. But that isn't important. All that matters is that you're nearer. She gives you your share of the money for the sale of the letter. Despite what she told you, you decide to remain on hand for any word that might indicate future possibilities in the transactions between Louise and Pop Wiley. It comes sooner than you expected. When a few days later, you drop in at Louise's curio shop, hear her in a telephone conversation.

[Louise Fenton]

That's right, Mr. Slagle. I'll have the Ehrenberg letter for you. Tuesday. Tuesday evening. What's that? Oh, yes, yes, of course you will have the money. Yes, my price is 25,000. All right. Tuesday,

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Tuesday. That's all you need to hear. Louise Fenton lied to you, didn't she?

[Ernie Madden]

Ernie?

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

There is another letter. And you know just how it will be smuggled out of prison. Yes, and that's why you're waiting outside the gates on Tuesday, bright and early, ready to intercept a certain party who's being released.

[Ernie Madden]

Hello, Sid.

[Sid Nolan]

Huh?

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, Ernie Madden. What are you doing around here? Oh, I just came by to see you. Me? Yeah, yeah, I'm tied in with a new outfit now. So long, kid. Wait a minute, wait a minute. This is legit. Yeah, sure, sure. I'm working with the Community Aid Society. An old lady named Mrs. Alden runs it. Oh, her. Yeah, yeah. Pop made me promise that I'd see her, but I changed my mind. I don't want her charity. All right, all right. You don't have to talk to her if you don't want her. But she gave me the dough for a suit for you. What's wrong with the one I got on? Okay, so it ain't the last word. Look, I'll see you around, huh? All right, all right. If you feel that way about it. Well, come on, if you're going into town. I'll give you a lift. I got a car down the block. It's a free ride. You don't mind a ride I can use.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

You get him away just in time, don't you, Ernie? Because as you round the corner, you see Louise's car pull up to the prison gate. You drive off before she can follow. Now you're alone with Sid, and you know it's not going to be easy getting him to part with his prison issue, the surge suit. A suit that's worth $25,000 because of the letter hidden in the shoulder padding. You've made up your mind, haven't you, Ernie?

[Ernie Madden]

Yes.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

You're going to stay close to Sid in that suit he's wearing. And you do in the hours that follow as you drive him several places while he tries to find a girl he used to know. Late that afternoon, he wants to make another call in hopes of reaching her. You let Sid off at a drugstore and find a parking place just around the corner. Light a cigarette, sit back and wait

[Ernie Madden]

for Sid to return.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

You've got to get that suit from him and the letter that you're certain is hidden in the shoulder padding. Yes, but how, Ernie? He gives you enough time to think it over clearly and decide what you must do. Quickly. You step around to the back of the car, the baggage compartment. Your hand closes over the heavy wrench. You slip it into your pocket. You'll just have to take Sid for a little ride in the country if you're going to get that letter, won't you, Ernie? You're just easing in behind the wheel again when Sid joins you.

[Ernie Madden]

No, honey, she still don't answer. Wow, that's tough. Say, how about a little ride out, Honey? Honey, I've been thinking about seeing my girl and everything. That offer you made me this morning still good? You mean about. About the new suit? Yeah, sure. So a nice old lady wants to buy me a classy outfit. So what's wrong with it, huh? It makes her happy. What I got against making an old lady happy? Now you're talking, Sid. So I let her buy me a suit.

[Louise Fenton]

Sure.

[Ernie Madden]

It's a smart thing to do, Sid. This is probably the smartest move you ever made, huh? Skip it, kids. Skip it.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Yes, I think you'll really enjoy this suit, sir.

[Ernie Madden]

Now, let me see. We'll have to shorten the sleeves a

[Various Characters/Chorus]

little, making a bit here, here.

[Ernie Madden]

And the pants, too, pal.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Of course. I'll have our tailor here in just a moment.

[Ernie Madden]

By the way, will it take long? Well, we've been rather busy, you know.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I'd say we could have it ready sometime tomorrow afternoon.

[Ernie Madden]

Look, pal, maybe you and the tailor could get together here, split this 20 between you and get the suit out for my friend while he waits. Well, I think perhaps we can arrange that. The alterations are minor.

[Pete (Guard)]

Really?

[Ernie Madden]

Fine, fine. Here you are. And this will take care of this suit. Thank you. Hey, you leaving on here? Yes, yes, I have a very important date. Sid. Here's a magazine you can read while you're in the dressing room waiting for the alterations. And look, Sid, I'll just take this blue surge of yours with me. Mrs. Alden, you know, she can give it to somebody who could really use it. See? I'll see you around, pal.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Back at your home room, you rip open the suit coat and there it is, Ernie, neatly concealed in the shoulder padding. The letter from Aaron Burr. The letter that you're sure is a forgery from the skilled pen of Pop Wiley. And it will bring you $25,000. It takes you a little time to find the man you're looking for, Mr. Slago, the man Louise spoke to. But finally you find his phone number, call his office and then.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Hello?

[Ernie Madden]

Hello, is Mr. Slagle in?

[Louise Fenton]

Hello, Ernie.

[Ernie Madden]

Louise.

[Louise Fenton]

Yes, Ernie. I've been expecting you to call. When I didn't hear from you, I knew you'd call here. So I've already talked with Mr. Slagle.

[Ernie Madden]

What's the idea?

[Louise Fenton]

I told him, darling partner, that you'd be delivering the letter. You can meet us at my curio shop. You know the address.

[Ernie Madden]

Okay, what time?

[Louise Fenton]

8 o' clock will be fine. And don't be late, Ernie. Mr. Slagle is a very interested buyer.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

Well, Ernie, Louise has outguessed you, hasn't she? But it's still a windfall. And you'll still share in Mr. Slagle's payment. Shortly before 8, you drive across town. Enter Louise Fenton's curator.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, come in, Ernie, come in.

[Ernie Madden]

Hello, Louise.

[Louise Fenton]

I want you to meet Mr. Slagle. Mr. Slagle, Mr. Davis, my associate.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

How do you do, Mr. Davis?

[Ernie Madden]

Mr. Slagle.

[Louise Fenton]

You have the letter, Ernie?

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, yeah. Yes. Here you are, sir. Yeah.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Thank you. Yes, yes, this is it. And now, Ms. Fenton, this envelope is for you if you care to count the money.

[Louise Fenton]

No, that won't be necessary, Mr. Slago.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Thank you. After all these years, the letter is mine. You don't know what this letter means to me, Miss Fenton.

[Ernie Madden]

Mr. Davis.

[Louise Fenton]

And you don't know what this envelope means to me.

[Ernie Madden]

To both of us, darling.

[Louise Fenton]

Oh, of course, Ernie, to both of us.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

When you buy an automobile battery, you want three things. You want power for quick starts. You want trouble free, long life and you want economy. You get all three of these things and more of them. In the New Signal Deluxe battery power, you get up to 35% more power because the micro porous all rubber separators and New Signal Deluxe batteries hold twice as much acid solution between the plates. Long life signals Written guarantee for a full 30 months on a service basis assures you extra long trouble free performance economy. Those extra months and months of service in a Signal Deluxe battery mean amazingly low cost per month, which is the only logical way to compare battery costs. What's more, you can now get a generous trade in allowance for your old battery at signal service stations, plus liberal credit terms. So before you buy any battery, see your Signal dealer. Let facts and figures prove that you get today's best battery buy where you fill up with the famous go farther gasoline at a signal service station.

[The Whistler (Narrator)]

It's over, Ernie. You've sold the Aaron burr letter to Mr. Slagle and he's given you and Louise the $25,000. It's fantastic, isn't it? How you unknowingly brought the first letter out of prison in the suit they gave you on the day of your parole. How you discovered the clever plot between Louise Fenton and old Pop Wiley, the imprisoned forger. But Louise caught on to you when you intercepted the second letter unwittingly smuggled out by Sid Nolan. Yet it really doesn't matter now because the money Mr. Slagle just paid for it is enough for both of you. You smile as Mr. Slagle leaves the shop, but as he does someone else. Enter.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Hello, madam.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Huh?

[Ernie Madden]

Oh, hello, Solari. Well, what do you want?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

A word in private, if you'd rather.

[Ernie Madden]

No, no, no, it's okay. Ms. Fenton, Lieutenant Solari, police.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

How do you do?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

How do you do, Miss? Well, all right.

[Ernie Madden]

What brings you around here, Lieutenant?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Sid Newlan. The two of you got pretty chummy today. Spent an awful lot of time together. You ought to know we don't like a couple of parolees paddling around.

[Ernie Madden]

Well, okay. I was just doing him a favor.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

All right, that's fine. I just thought I'd come around and warn you. Better break it up.

[Ernie Madden]

Sure, sure, don't worry. Anything else?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

No, nothing else.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, Miss Fenton. Mr. Davis.

[Ernie Madden]

Slagle.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Pardon me for interrupting.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

I just wanted to say if you

[Various Characters/Chorus]

ever run across any more Aaron Burr originals.

[Louise Fenton]

Yes, yes, of course.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

I'll pay a good price.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Pardon me, Mr. Slagle.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

August Slagle.

[Sid Nolan]

You.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You are a collector, too?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Oh, of sorts.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Then you'll be interested in this letter I just purchased from Miss Fenton. Mr. Davis. A letter by Aaron Burr.

[Ernie Madden]

Here, look.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Mm. Sure this is the real thing?

[Sid Nolan]

Real?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Why, of course. I know. I know it is.

[Ernie Madden]

Why do you ask?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

I was just wondering. Your Mr. Davis here isn't really Mr. Davis at all. His name's Ernie Madden. Got out of state prison just a week ago.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What?

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Yeah, and he's a good friend of Pop Wiley's. Maybe you heard of Pop. An expert forger. Very good at things like this.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You mean this letter?

[Sid Nolan]

You think it's.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

I think we'd better take this downtown, have it checked. How about it, Ernie?

[Ernie Madden]

Okay. Okay, sir.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Larry, why bother?

[Ernie Madden]

It's a phony. Sure, just like all the others. Ernie, look, sweetheart, look, when you're caught cold, it's no use. I know.

[Henry Fonda (as Abraham Lincoln)]

Yeah, you know, don't you, Ernie? Okay, let's go, the both of you.

[Louise Fenton]

Ernie, you stupid fool. Now, there'll be an investigation. They'll find out about the other letters. I've sold the forgeries.

[Ernie Madden]

They've got us dead to rights. When they check this letter, they'll find

[Louise Fenton]

it's not a forgery. Papuiley had have something to work from. So I bought the original Aaron Burr letter and sent it to him. And that was it. The one we just sold to Mr. Slagle.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Let that whistle be your signal for the Signal Oil program. The Whistler. Each Sunday night at this same time brought to you by the Signal Oil Company marketers of signal gasoline and motor oil and fine automotive accessories. Remember, if you would like the fun of having your friends hear a limerick of yours on the Whistler the address to which to send it is the Signal Oil company, Los Angeles, 55, California. All limericks become the property of the Signal Oil Company. Those selected for use on the Whistler will be chosen by our advertising representatives on the basis of humor, suitability and originality. So, of course, they must be your own composition. Featured in tonight's story were Wally Mayer and Doris Singleton. The Whistler was produced and directed by by George W. Allen with story by Joel Malone, music by Wilbur Hatch and was transmitted to our troops overseas by the Armed Forces Radio Service. The Whistler is entirely fictional and all characters portrayed on the Whistler are also fictional. Any similarity of names or resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. Remember, at this same time next Sunday another strange tale by the Whistler.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

S I, t n a l signal. Signal gasoline.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Marvin miller speaking. This is cbs, the columbia broadcasting system,

[Various Characters/Chorus]

from hollywood.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

It's time now for. Shiny Dollar.

[Johnny Dollar]

Where have you been for the past 20 minutes?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

In the shower for 20 minutes. Okay, so I'm a Shiny Dollar.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

So you're.

[Courtroom Spectator/Additional Character]

Oh.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Who's that?

[Johnny Dollar]

Max. Max Green at Assured Equity.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Oh, hi, Max. What's on your mind?

[Johnny Dollar]

Four score and seven years ago.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

My father's brought fourth, but that doesn't answer my question, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

You ever hear of the Meeks?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

New England family stood away on the Mayflower. Speak only to their money.

[Johnny Dollar]

That's the Meeks.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

What about them?

[Johnny Dollar]

No, not about them. It's about Mariah Meek and Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. She's lost her copy of it.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, it shouldn't be hard to find her another one.

[Johnny Dollar]

That's where you're wrong, Johnny. It would be very hard.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Might cost us a hundred thousand dollars.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

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. Expensive. Submitted by special investigator Johnny Dollar to the Assured Equity and Trust Company, 325 Scott Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an account of expenses incurred during my investigation of the Meek Memorial matter. Expense account item 1, $1.90 cab from my apartment of Max Green's office. He was standing in a haze of cigar smoke, ashes on his vest and a worried look on his face.

[Johnny Dollar]

Good morning. Good morning, Johnny.

[Supporting Male Character]

Oh, you want a cigar?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Oh, no, no thanks.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sit up. Excuse me. Listen, Johnny, what do you know about that speech that Lincoln made at Gettysburg?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, I had to memorize it in school like every other kid.

[Johnny Dollar]

All right. You know how many words are in it?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Maybe a couple of hundred.

[Sid Nolan]

Why?

[Johnny Dollar]

Wait a minute. It's in this book here. It's page 143. Speech is printed here exactly as Mr. Lincoln released it to the newspapers after the Gettysburg Address. You find it?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah, but now what?

[Johnny Dollar]

Total number of words, 268. But the first two drafts of that speech, including the one he read that day, contained only 266 words.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

So he patted his part.

[Johnny Dollar]

That's right. Two more words.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

How come?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, according to the historians, Lincoln ad libbed the two additional words at the time. He read it later on when he made three new copies of the speech, included those two words. You with me so far?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Keep going, Max.

[Johnny Dollar]

All right, right down at the end of it, just before of the people, by the people, where he said that this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom. The words under God do not appear in the first two drafts he wrote.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah, well, this is all very interesting, Max, but I still don't see what it is or what it has to do with me.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, Mariah Meek's copy has disappeared. Oh, and Johnny, that copy happens to contain just 266 words.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You mean she owns one of the first two original drafts.

[Johnny Dollar]

Handwritten by Mr. Lincoln himself while he was on the train riding to Gettysburg.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Wowee.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah. Which is, of course, why we insured it for the full amount it cost her, which is $100,000 even.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Of course, you made sure it was authentic before you issued the copy.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, naturally.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, who'd she buy it from?

[Johnny Dollar]

An antique dealer down in Richmond, Virginia. A fellow named Jason Penrod.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Huh.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Why has she been keeping it under

[Johnny Dollar]

glass in the Meek Memorial?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

What's that?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, she collects Americana, so she had a museum built to keep it in. She calls it the Meek Memorial.

[Sid Nolan]

Follows.

[Johnny Dollar]

Follows? Also follows. The most expensive item in the collection, the Gettysburg Address would be the one to disappear.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Oh, you're just an old pessimist, Max. You think somebody lifted it?

[Johnny Dollar]

What do you think, it walked out by itself?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Okay, okay. So what are you gonna do about it?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, we're gonna run newspaper ads. We're Gonna offer a $10,000 reward for information leading to its return. If anyone answers it, you let me know where you'll be and I'll refer them to you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Good. When was it taken?

[Johnny Dollar]

The night before last.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Is there any kind of market for something that rare?

[Johnny Dollar]

It's hard to say, Johnny. A hot camera would be easier to pedal, sure, but a good many wells. Wealthy people like Mrs. Meek, they make a hobby of collecting things. You know, antiques, objects of art, etchings.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

But whoever took this or buys it from the thief couldn't just let everybody see it.

[Johnny Dollar]

It wouldn't matter to some people. They take it and put it in the vault and keep it there.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Then what's the point in having it around?

[Johnny Dollar]

Pride of possession. You got something no other collector could own.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

And of course, it might not have really disappeared at all.

[Johnny Dollar]

You're thinking of fraud.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

A hundred grand if a lot of cash. Expense account item 2, $1.90. Cab fare back to my apartment. I wasn't particularly intrigued by this assignment. Rare documents, like anything else antique, have always seemed to be just one step from decay. And that sometimes goes for the people who collect such things. Item 3, $16.10. Transportation, including a round trip ticket, Hartford to New Bedford and cab fare to the waiter's hotel. There was a convention in town, so I was lucky to get a room. After checking in, I called the Meek residence. Mrs. Meek was expecting me and said she'd have her car pick me up. I had just put down the phone when someone knocked on the door.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You in there?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Depends on what you're looking for.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I longed for Mr. Mr. J

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

J. Did you say nobody by that name here.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, yeah, I see.

[Supporting Male Character]

I, I I guess I got the wrong room.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah. Well, why don't you ask down at the desk, huh?

[Supporting Male Character]

Yeah, yeah.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, sure, sure.

[Supporting Male Character]

Yes.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Yeah.

[Sid Nolan]

Funny.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Where is it?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I cracked the door open again. Watched him walk to the stairs. Then I took the elevator down the eight flights to the lobby. Half an hour later, I was in the back seat of the Meek limousine heading toward the home out on Buzzards Bay. It was a big sprawling frame building facing on the beach. About 50 yards behind it, closer to the road, was the Meek Memorial Museum. I was starting up the front steps when the door opened.

[Supporting Male Character]

Mr. Dollar?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

That's right.

[Supporting Male Character]

I'm Paul Meek. I understand you have an appointment with my grandmother.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Right again.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Come in, please.

[Supporting Male Character]

She's waiting for you upstairs in the sitting room.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Okay, thanks.

[Supporting Male Character]

Before you go up, I wonder if I could have a few words with you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Why not in here then?

[Supporting Male Character]

You've never met my grandmother, have you?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

No, no, I haven't had that pleasure.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Some people consider it a dubious one. Mr. Dollar.

[Supporting Male Character]

Oh, Mr. Dollar, this is my wife, Janice.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

This is me.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Hi. How about a drink?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Thanks, not just now.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

How about you, old stick in the mud? You want another one?

[Supporting Male Character]

After a bit, Janice. And if I were you, I wouldn't have any more.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

But you're not me, are you?

[Supporting Male Character]

You will have to excuse my wife, Mr. Dollard. See, well, we've both been under a severe strain since moving here. Grandmother is blind, you know.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

No, I didn't know.

[Supporting Male Character]

Her sight began failing about four years ago. I'm surprised the insurance agent didn't tell you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, Mr. Green was so concerned over the theft. The Lincoln manuscript. I imagine it slipped his mind.

[Supporting Male Character]

And just how do you intend to locate that manuscript?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I'm not so sure that I can.

[Supporting Male Character]

It'd be a pity if you couldn't be just awful. It's grandmother's prized possession. She hasn't been herself since it was stolen. And being quite elderly, well, we're all very much concerned.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, my, yes. We're afraid she might die and leave us all that lovely money.

[Supporting Male Character]

Janice, it's the truth.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

You see, Paul and I. I don't have any money of our own, Mr. Dollar. We'll never have any until she does die instead of giving it to us now while we're young. You know what she does with it? Spends it buying junk for that soy old museum. Now, look, that's gratitude, isn't it? I bathe her, feed her, rub her feet and do all her dirty work.

[Supporting Male Character]

Janice, you've said quite enough. Mr. Dollar isn't interested in our personal problems.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, sick of the mud. All right, I'll be in the den if you want me. And that's the funniest thing I've said all day. If you want me.

[Supporting Male Character]

I'm sorry. She doesn't mean half of what she says. Oh, that's Grandmother's signal then.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Hadn't we better go up?

[Supporting Male Character]

Yes. Yes, we better.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

We went up the broad staircase, through a hall and into a bright sunny room. Wrapped in an old kimono and shawl. Martha Meeks sat in an invalid chair facing the ocean. Paul introduced us, then sat down quietly near the door.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Paul. Paul, I know you're there. Now answer me.

[Supporting Male Character]

Yes, Reynolds.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

You go on downstairs. I want to talk with Mr. Dollar in private.

[Supporting Male Character]

Whatever you say.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

And close that door. Don't mind my back, Mr. Dollar. I couldn't see you if I looked into your face. Now then, when are you going to arrest that crook and bring my Lincoln's speech back to me?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, I. I'm going to need a lot of help and information, Mrs. Meek.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

What kind of information?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Mostly about the museum.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Like what?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, do you know who was in the there the night the manuscript disappeared?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Certainly that dirty robber was.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Anyone else?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, old Pete's always there. Supposed to be guarding the place. But he didn't do a very good job the other night. Got himself slugged.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Does he live on the grounds?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Yes. I brought him over from Naples 10 years ago. He was my guide in Italy. Showed me around so nice I decided to bring him back.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Tell me, is the memorial open to the public?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

It was going to be. I intended it to be once, but when my eyes. No, Mr. Dollar. I keep it locked most of the time.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

And who discovered the manuscript was missing?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Pete did, I guess. At least when he recovered, he ran yelling bloody murder up here to the house. Everybody went down to see what had happened. Everybody but me. They left me all to myself.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Were there any strangers here in the house that night, Mrs. Meek? Anyone beside the servants and your grandson and his wife?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

One person, but he's no stranger.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Who's that?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Jason Penrod from Richmond. He's an art dealer. We were discussing some business.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

May I ask what kind of business?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

It has nothing to do with you or the people you work for.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Sorry. Where can I find Mr. Penrod?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

He's staying here now, isn't in his room. Then he's most likely out in the memorial. Now, that's enough questions. You give me a cigarette, ma'.

[Sid Nolan]

Am.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

What's the matter? Your death. Give me a cigarette before Paul with that snoopy wife of his comes prowling around.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

All right, sure.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Like me. You want any more information, Pete's the one to talk to.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

All right, thanks. But what about your son and daughter in law? Were they inside the house at the time of the robbery?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

You don't suspect them, do you?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Right now I suspect everybody, Mrs. Meek.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Even me?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yes, ma', am, even you.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, bless you, boy.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I found Pete Vesuvio trimming the shrubbery just outside the Memorial Building. He seemed quite willing to talk to me.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

How you say?

[Pete (Guard)]

What happened to me, mister? I'm hit out.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Knocked out.

[Pete (Guard)]

Pete?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Ah, si, senor.

[Pete (Guard)]

And because of this, I do not see anything.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Nothing at all, huh?

[Pete (Guard)]

Please, mister, do not use the insult. I am American citizen. First papers. Because of a kind of. Of my patrona, I will soon be second papers. I know by heart the Constitution, United States, Gettysburg Address. Pledge allegiance to my flag. You know how I know that? These things which help me be citizen because of my lady. She's letting me work in a place where great papers are for me to read. Because of her. I would not hide anything, mister.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Okay, Pete, okay. I'm convinced.

[Pete (Guard)]

But I'm sorry I cannot help.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, it's not your fault.

[Pete (Guard)]

Hey, you like to hear me say Gettysburg Address? Do it. Very good. Learn it right from president's own writing.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Some other time, Pete. Right now I have to find Mr. Penrod.

[Pete (Guard)]

Oh, easy inside, mister. Counting the treasures. All of the beautiful things a m. Lady can no longer see. You'll find him in a section L, senor.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I found the small, neat appearance just where Pete had said he'd be. Peering into a glass case crowded with Derringer pistols. He had a notebook under his arm and seemed to be making some sort of inventory.

[Sid Nolan]

Oh, dear. You gave me quite a fright, sir.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Oh, I'm sorry. I wish I could concentrate like that.

[Sid Nolan]

Oh, well, there's nothing more interesting to me than these final pistol things. What histories they must have.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Mr. Dollar. Johnny Dollar.

[Sid Nolan]

Oh, yes, the insurance investigator. Paul told me you were wandering about the place. I suppose you'd like to ask me

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

some questions, if you don't mind.

[Sid Nolan]

Oh, no, Goodness, no.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I understand you were with Mrs. Meek the night of the robbery.

[Sid Nolan]

That is correct. We heard the shouting. We ran out here just as fast as we could. I was the one who discovered the manuscript was missing.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You have any idea how the thief got in here?

[Sid Nolan]

No, no, no. Unless someone forgot to lock the front door. Unless he had a key.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, has Mrs. Meek given out many of the keys?

[Sid Nolan]

In my opinion, too many. Even I have one.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

What about Paul Meek and his wife?

[Sid Nolan]

No, I Don't think so. They really aren't interested in the museum at all. Mr. Dollar.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Mr. Penrod, I understand you're quite an authority on antique art and things like that. Well, isn't taking inventory at least little beneath your position?

[Sid Nolan]

Well, I suppose it is, Mr. Dolliver. Last week, when I received dear Mariah's wire asking me to do it, I. I simply couldn't refuse. She's been such a good customer of mine. Will he? Yes.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You have any idea who might have wanted the Lincoln manuscript?

[Sid Nolan]

Well, I know several persons who'd love to have it. You can give almost anything, but I don't know anyone with the nerve to break in here and take it by force.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

And you remember where Paul Meek and his wife were when you heard Pete shouting?

[Sid Nolan]

They were right in here when I arrived. I see.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Well, thanks for. Oh, just one more thing.

[Sid Nolan]

Oh, yes?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

If you'd stolen the manuscript, Mr. Darla. Hypothetical question, Mr. Penrod. But if you had and you wanted to sell it at a good price with the least danger of being caught, how would you go about it?

[Sid Nolan]

Well, I take it abroad, of course. I put it on the open market it over there.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You aren't planning on going abroad soon, are you, Mr. Penrose?

[Sid Nolan]

Oh, gracious, no.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You know anyone who is? Anyone who?

[Sid Nolan]

Didn't Paul and Janice tell you? They're flying to Paris Wednesday night.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I left the memorial and walked back to the house. The Meeks were in the study engaged in their favorite pastime. When I told them what the art dealer had said, Paul set down his glass long enough to confirm the fact that they did have reservations and insisted that he had a logical explanation for not having told me of those plans earlier.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Very logical explanation, Mr. Dollar.

[Supporting Male Character]

Let me handle this, Janice, please.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Sure. Drink, John.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Now, first I want to hear that explanation, if you don't mind, Paul.

[Supporting Male Character]

Of course I don't mind. Janice and me were fed up.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Why didn't you tell me about the plane reservations?

[Supporting Male Character]

Well, why should I have? I'm not even sure I'm going to use them. Oh, grandmother's upset enough over losing that manuscript. Something else might. Well, anyhow, if the manuscript doesn't turn up within 48 hours, we're canceling our trip.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, no, please.

[Supporting Male Character]

Sorry, Janice, but that's the way it's got to be.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

She did it.

[Supporting Male Character]

What do you mean?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

It's an act. Don't you see? Jason Penrod told her we were going to leave, so she had him hide the manuscript. And now they sing about her being so upset and having such a Weak heart. It's an axe to keep her precious darling boy tied to her apron strings.

[Supporting Male Character]

I don't believe that.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, just wait.

[Supporting Male Character]

You will. Anything else? $.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

What does a trip to Paris cost, Paul?

[Supporting Male Character]

Well, it's not inexpensive.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Your wife was complaining about being so broke.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Haven't you ever heard of flying now and paying later?

[Supporting Male Character]

We have friends in Paris, $. It won't cost as much to live once we get the worry about paying for our ticket when we get back.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Any other questions, Mr. Snooper?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah. Later. It was after seven when I finally got back to my hotel room. I ordered a drink and tried to make some kind of sense out of the information I'd gathered during the day. But it all added up to zero. I called Hartford and asked Max Green to look into the meat finances. Then I dressed for dinner. I was about to go downstairs when the phone rang. Johnny Dollar.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Mr. Dollar. I was told to call you.

[Supporting Male Character]

Yeah, it's about the ad. The ad in tonight's paper about something

[Various Characters/Chorus]

missing from a certain memorial.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Go on.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, I.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Call Hartford collect. They said to call you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah, that's right. Who is this?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

My name's not important, Dollar. But that ten grand reward is.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You think you can earn it?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

You meet me tonight.

[Pete (Guard)]

You'll see.

[Sid Nolan]

Where?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

In the alley behind the Bourne Whaling Museum.

[Supporting Male Character]

Be there at 9:30 and be alone. You got it?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah, I got it. Expense account. Item 4. 85 cents. Cab fare from my hotel to the Bourne Whiting Museum. I don't like wandering around dark alleys at night alone in a strange town. It isn't the best way to stay alive. But at 9:29, I passed the old Whaling Museum and started down the alley. It was dark, no moon, and it was very quiet. I was about 20 yards in from the street when I saw him. Curled up in a ball like he had a stomach ache. Only he didn't, because somebody had made him very dead. I struck a match and turned him over. I'd only seen him once before, but I didn't have any trouble remembering where it had been. Right after I checked in, he knocked on my hotel room door by mistake. At least that's what he'd said. After giving a statement to the local police who identified him, I went back to my hotel.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Evening, Mr. Dalla. Yeah.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Say, look, I know it's probably against all your rules, but who has had my room just before I checked in?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Oh, I couldn't disclose that information, sir. Sorry.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Oh, well, so am I. It'd mean a lot for me to know. Maybe even five Bucks worth.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Well, I. Well, sir, if it's that important.

[Sid Nolan]

Thank you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Now, let's see here.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Yeah.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Yes, here it is. Can you read his signature, Mr. Daller? Yeah.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Thanks just fine. The name I'd seen scrawled on the hotel register wasn't important now. At least not without something more to back it up. There was no law against checking out of a hotel. But there was a law against murder if it could be proven. And that would be hard to do without finding a motive. So I went back to the make house to look for her. I paid off the taxi, that's item five, and started up the front steps.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, hi, Johnny. I thought it might be you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

That's so.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Mm. I hope you aren't mad at me for the things I said today.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

No, no, not at all.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I've been a very bad girl, but everything's gonna be all right now.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

It is.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Mm. Or haven't you heard?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Heard what?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

About dear old grandmother. She had a real bad stroke. Isn't expected to live.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You aren't a bit sorry, are you?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Would you be if you were me?

[Supporting Male Character]

$, you mind coming up here?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

No, not a bit.

[Ernie Madden]

Paul.

[Supporting Male Character]

I was trying to reach you at your hotel.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Thank goodness you've come here.

[Supporting Male Character]

Did Janice tell you?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah. How is she?

[Supporting Male Character]

Bad. Doctor's given up. Says it's only a matter of hours. She told me to send for you, Mr. Dollar. Oh, I don't know why. I've never been able to figure out a lot of things.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

All right, where is she?

[Supporting Male Character]

In there. Old Pete's with her.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

But go on in.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Thanks

[Pete (Guard)]

would take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave her the last.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Who is it?

[Pete (Guard)]

Oh, it's Mr. Dollar, my lady.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Hello, Mrs. Meek.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, thank you for coming, Mr. Dollar.

[Pete (Guard)]

I go now.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

No, wait. Mr. Dollar, you have a moment, haven't you?

[Sid Nolan]

Of course.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I promised Pete the last time I visited the museum. I promised I'd let him recite some of the things he's learned while working there. Haven't been able to keep that promise till now. Go on, Pete, please.

[Pete (Guard)]

Yes, my lady. They hear give the last full measure of devotion that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain. That this nation under God, shall have a new birth of freedom and that the government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Thank you. That was wonderful.

[Pete (Guard)]

Thank you, my lady. Now I go.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Mr. Dollar, I have a confession to make to you. Yes? I lied to you.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Oh, I'm sure it wasn't a very big lie, Mrs. Meek.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh, but it was. I told you the business Mr. Penrod and I were discussing the night of the burglary.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yes.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

I told you it had nothing to do with you or the people you work for. Remember?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yes, ma'. Am.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Well, it was a lie. I'm broke, Mr. Dollar. All I have left in the world is this house and the things in the memorial. I think that's why I sent for Jason Penrod. He purchased most of my treasures for me. He's evaluating them now. So Paul and Janice will know what they're worth when they go to sell them, which they'll do immediately.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Mrs. Meek, don't you think you should try to rest now?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Will you give me a cigarette?

[Sid Nolan]

No, ma'.

[Pete (Guard)]

Am.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Sorry. And you must rest.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

There isn't much else to do, is there? Good night, Mr. Donald.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Outside in the hall, Paul and Janice Meek were talking quietly to Jason Penrod. Off in the corner, standing with his back to the others, was Pete Bio.

[Pete (Guard)]

Mr. Dora is.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

She's resting quietly.

[Pete (Guard)]

Oh, dear. Grouchy.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Why did you lie to me, Pete?

[Pete (Guard)]

What? I never lied to nobody. Who say I did?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I say I did.

[Pete (Guard)]

You're crazy, mister.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

What lie I tell you?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You said you learned the Gettysburg address right from Mr. Lincoln's own writing in the museum.

[Pete (Guard)]

That's an old lie. What's the matter? You don't believe that, mister?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

I believe you, Pete, but I just had to be sure. Come on, let's join the other, shall we?

[Sid Nolan]

Well, good evening, Mr. Dollar.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Mr. Penrod tell you any of the family secrets, Johnny?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Not too many.

[Supporting Male Character]

You learn anything in there you didn't know before?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yeah, I know. Which one of you stole the Lincoln manuscript?

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

One of us?

[Supporting Male Character]

Why, you're crazy, Donna.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

We were all in the house at

[Supporting Male Character]

the time it happened.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

That's right. But one of you hired a little man named Leo Jones to do your dirty work. Jones called me earlier this evening. He was going to tell me which one of you it was. Evidently, he didn't like the deal he was getting. What was he doing, Penrod, Trying to blackmail you?

[Sid Nolan]

What are you talking about?

[Various Characters/Chorus]

I don't know any Leo Jones.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Then why did he come around to my hotel room this morning? The same room you just checked out of.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Well, that doesn't mean a thing. I imagine several persons have been to that room today.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Sure, but they're still alive. Now, let's get to the phony Lincoln manuscript.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Phony manuscript?

[Supporting Male Character]

It wasn't phony, Mr. Dollar.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Wasn't it? Well, you correct me if I'm wrong, Penrod. After Mrs. Meek purchased one of the first two drafts of Mr. Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, she started losing her sight. When she closed the museum to the public, you saw a chance to make yourself another hundred thousand dollar sale. So you switch copies of the manuscript, replacing that graph with one containing the words under God, which isn't worth anything close to 100 grand.

[Supporting Male Character]

What do you mean dollar?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

All right, let me quote that this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom and so on.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

What?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

The phrase under God was not in the manuscript he sold your grandmother. But it was in the copy. Old Pete has been sold studying in the museum. Right, Mr. Penrod.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

All of you stay right where you are. You get what Jones got Mr. To?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

He won't go far, Pete.

[Pete (Guard)]

But I am the guard.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

The lady will want me to stop him.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Pete, come back here.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Keep away from me, King.

[Supporting Male Character]

Come on.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Oh,

[Sid Nolan]

you.

[Pete (Guard)]

You de lady. I am a better guard now.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Much better.

[Pete (Guard)]

See, senor?

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

Yes, Peter.

[Pete (Guard)]

I did good.

[Bob Bailey (Johnny Dollar)]

You did fine. Pete Fubio will live to apply for his second paper and in time probably open a spaghetti joint in New Bedford. Penrod will be tried for murder. As yet he hasn't disclosed the name of the person who purchased the stolen manuscript, but in time I am sure he will. As for the Meeks, well, Mariah passed on later that night, but as she said, there was nothing left for her but to rest. Expense account total including hotel and numerous incidentals, $98.30. Yours truly, Johnny Doll.

[Female Character (Louise Fenton/Mrs. Alden)]

Sam.

[Narrator for Cavalcade of America]

Johnny Dollar has come to you through the worldwide facilities of the United States Armed Forces Radio and television.

[Pete (Guard)]

Foreign.

[Podcast Host]

We just heard Academy award, the Cavalcade of America, the Whistler and yours truly, Johnny Dollar. That will do it for this week's show. Thanks so much for joining me. I hope you'll be back next week for more old time Radio detectives. In the meantime, you can check out stars on suspense, my other Old Time Radio podcast. New episodes of that show are out on Thursdays. If you like what you're hearing. Don't be a stranger. You can rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com meansts OTR. I'll be back next week with more Old time Radio crime fighters. But until then, good night and happy listening, Sam.

[Various Characters/Chorus]

Now here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen. In a prejudice filled America, no one would be secure in his job, his business, his church or his home. Yet racial and religious antagonisms are exploited daily by quacks and adventurers whose followers make up the irresponsible lunatic fringe of American life. Refused to listen to or spread rumors against any race or religion. Help to stamp out prejudice in our country. Let's judge our neighbors by the character of their lives alone and not on the basis of their religion or origin.