← Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)
Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)
Episode 608 - The Missing Chapters Matters (Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar)
02:54:08
Of the legendary run of serialized Johnny Dollar shows starring the great Bob Bailey, three stories are incomplete, with one chapter from each having been lost to time. Today, we're investigating if these stories still hold up even with a missing...
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- [00:00]
Johnny Dollar
Get this and get it straight. 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. The Adventures of Sam Spade Detective the Adventures of the Saint Starring Vincent Price. 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. Hello and welcome to down these Mean Streets with more old time radio detectives and crime solvers. One of my favorite radio detective shows is yours truly, Johnny Dollar. The adventures of America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Particularly the run of shows from 1955 until 1956 when Bob Bailey played Dollar in a series of nightly shows that dramatized a story over the course of a week. With more than twice the runtime of a typical radio episode, these five part stories offered richer characterization and more complex plots. And today they hold up as not only great radio detective shows, but great radio drama, period. But an unfortunate reality of old time radio fandom is that many shows have been lost to time. And Johnny Dollar isn't immune from that condition. Of the fabled Bob Bailey serialized run, there are three storylines that each contain one missing segment. And today we're investigating whether those stories can still be enjoyed even with missing pieces of the puzzle. Now, as with everything, your mileage may vary, but I think the answer is a resounding yes. And it's because of the way these shows were built. Back in the mid-50s, writers and directors knew that people might miss a chapter of that week's story here and there. So each episode is designed to open with a recap of what happened the day before. Even if we miss the specific scenes, we get the blanks filled in enough to enjoy the show and to follow along with the plot. Now, because 20% is missing from each of these storylines, they probably aren't anybody's favorite Johnny Dollar serialized shows. For the record, my favorites from the run are the Cui Bono Matter and the Laughing Matter. But I think these three stories can still be enjoyed as part of this incredible run of shows. So now let's open three expense accounts of Johnny Dollar, each with a few missing details. First up is the Salt City Matter, a story that played out on CBS between April 2nd and 6th, 1956. Missing chapter two. Then it's the lonely hearts matter from April 23rd until April 27th, 1956, sans chapter four. And finally it's the imperfect alibi matter from September 17th to September 21st, 1956. Missing chapter two. Our incomplete stories begin right after these messages. To be your level best. You see, Lucky's Fine Tobacco picks you up when you're low, calms you down when you're tense. It's good to know that fine tobacco can do this for you. And that's why it's so important that you select and smoke the cigarette of fine tobacco, Lucky Strike. For as every smoker knows, LS mft. LS mft. Lucky Strike means fine tobacco. Remember, more independent tobacco experts, auctioneers, buyers and warehousemen smoke Lucky Strike regularly, then the next two leading brands combined. So when you choose your cigarette, remember that Lucky's Fine Tobacco puts you on the right level, the lucky level, where you feel your best and do your best. Feeling low, Feeling tense. These taste words are common sense. Smoker, lucky to feel your level best. Smoker, lucky to be your level best friend. Say, Mr. Barnes, before we begin, I have some letters here I'd like to read. Oh, letters from some of our listeners. Dan. No, these are letters for some of our listeners. Men who have tough whiskers or tender skin. And the letters I want to read to them are M O L L E. You bet, men. Shaving torture ends when you start shaving with mole, the heavier brushless shaving cream. Yes, sir. With mole, it's smooth, so smoot. It's slick. So slick it's a smooth, smooth, slick, slick shave you get with M O L L E. Mole, the heavier brushless shaving cream for tender skins. Yes, mole is the cream that's heavier, the cream for a hard to cut beard or a tender skin. Because mole is heavier, it not only softens your whiskers, it stands them up straight and lets your razor sail right through them. So you shave faster, closer, easier, and you shave painlessly with mole, the heavier brushless shaving cream for tender skin.
- [06:16]
Joe McNabb
When a cloud bursts and fresh, clean.
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Johnny Dollar
Rain falls on a grove of rich.
- [06:22]
Joe McNabb
Green pine, it's mmm, so nice.
- [06:30]
Johnny Dollar
And now that same clean scent of pine is in new pine scented Lysol. Right now, the one and only genuine 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 antiderm action kept working for seven full days. A bottle costs as little as 29 cents. And it's so easy to use. Just add new pine scented Lysol to your suds when you clean in bathroom, kitchen, nursery, sick room, Use pine scented Lysol because Lysol deep cleans make your.
- [07:06]
Joe McNabb
Home pine sweet and Lysol clean.
- [07:09]
Johnny Dollar
You can still get regular Lysol, too. I dedicate this program to the fight against crime. Not merely crimes of violence and crimes of dishonesty, but crimes of intolerance, discrimination and bad citizenship. Crimes against America. From Hollywood, it's time now for Johnny Dollar. Hello, Johnny. Sam Rubin. Oh, what's the matter, kid? I don't know. It's a feeling I get every time I hear your voice on the phone, Sam. Now what does that mean? Well, the last time you called, I took a job and had to hock my watch for cable fare in Hong Kong. That's what it means. So I bought your new watch, didn't I? What's in your mind? Ed Julian. Ed Julian. So long, Sam. No, no, no. Wait. Wait a minute. Johnny, Johnny, this is important. I need help. If you're fooling around with somebody like Ed Julian need help, go call a cop. They can't help me. I'm calling you, Johnny, for old time's sake. I'll see you after breakfast, Sam. Tonight and every weekday night. Bob Bailey and the Transcribed Adventures of the man with the Action Packed Expense Account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense account submitted by Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to Samuel Rubin and Associates Insurance Brokers, Majestic Building, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an accounting of expenditures during my investigation of the Salt City matter. I didn't know it was going to be that Salt City, I mean, but I did know the name Ed Julian. Every policeman in the country knew that name. My first impulse was to hang up the phone on Sam, but I didn't. Instead, I spent 85 cents, that's my first item on cab fare to get me to Sam's office. Welcome, Johnny. Long time no see. Come on in, Sit down, have a smoke. Sam Rubin looked about the same as I remembered him, and he acted about the same. He shook my hand, pushed a cigar at me, held up a $160 lighter and smiled. Oh, Johnny, Johnny, I'd like to have you on my permanent payroll. Well, now, that'd be something. Are you making me an offer or just talking? No, I suppose I'm just talking. But you're good to look at, you know. It gives me confidence. No, A little outfit like I got here. I can't afford high priced talent like yourself or a steady diet. Why don't you sit down, kid? You'll pardon me, Sam, but I don't feel sorry for you. You're right about every kind of insurance that's ever been issued. Oh, well, yeah, sure, but nothing like those big operations that you're used to. This is all little bitty companies. So I make a living. A man having his own company, running it by himself. 10 of his own companies. So it's 10 times as much trouble. No, listen. What do you know about Ed Julian, Johnny? He had quite a name in Chicago and Los Angeles. Hoboken. I thought he was in jail these days. Who, Ed? No. Got himself out of jail. Must have been three, four years ago. Sure. Went into enterprises in Florida, California. Very legitimate fellow. Oh, I'm sure he is. Let's get to the points then. Well, you're working for me, aren't you? I don't know whether I am or not. I haven't heard what it's all about. About? It's about Ed Julian, that's what it's about. All right, I'll lay it right out for you. Here, look at this. $50,000. $50,000 I gotta pay his widow if something happens to him. You'll pardon me again, Sam, but when you collected that first premium on him, and I take it you sold him $50,000 worth of life insurance. You should have thought of this part of it. What if something happened to him? No, nothing's happened to him. I'm afraid something's gonna happen to him. I'd have to get this money up. I'm just gonna listen to you talk because it doesn't seem to do much good asking you questions. So go ahead, Sam, talk, talk. Maybe something will come up. All right. But Johnny, don't be shrewd with me, huh? Now, the policy was issued maybe a month ago. I personally, I personally, I wouldn't sell a man like Ed Julian life insurance. Any kind of insurance. He's not a calculated risk. He's a lousy, long sided bet. Man like that. The enemies he makes. Oof. He's a bad fellow all the way around. But here it is, it's on paper. I'm stuck. If anything happens to him. Now, Johnny, the man's living in San Francisco now. And all I want is you go to him and ask him to cancel the policy. Okay, Sam. How did you ever get in the insurance business? No, no, Johnny, please. Why don't you go to San Francisco, handle it yourself? I'll tell you why. Because you know and I know there's no way for me or you or anybody else to approach Ed Julian and ask him to cancel out this policy. What it amounts to is that you want me to go there and keep an eye on him until you can break the policy, Isn't that it? Not necessarily, Johnny. What do you mean, not necessarily? All right, all right, so you're right. Listen, I heard through the grapevine there's a large collection of Ed's old friends visiting in and around San Francisco just a few days ago. It makes me very nervous. I have already a blood pressure condition. Friends who might want to shoot him down. Yeah, that's the kind of people. Yes, $50,000 payoff would hit me very hard this week. All right, Next week maybe not so hard, but this week. Oh, boy, the market. Are you playing with company funds? No, no. It's a calculated risk I'm entitled to take with company funds. They entrust me. All right, all right. Now, will you please sit down and study this thing out with me? What's. I'm always asking you to sit down. You never do. I also never study anything with you, Sam. How much? Well, expenses. Five hundred dollar bonus. Bye, Sam. No, no, wait, wait, wait. Johnny is so impatient. I'll make it a thousand. Thousand dollars bonus. Take care of yourself. See you. Listen, Johnny. Look, look, Johnny. All you have to do is keep him alive till I break the policy. Responsibility. My lawyers can do that. They told me it'll take a couple of days. I don't have to do anything. Sam, How'd you get that policy? It was in a bundle of stuff. Came in from the coast. Ed Julian took this out under his real name, Eduardo Sacovetti. Now, who knows it's Ed Julian? Skip the gestures and tell me how you do know. My broker out in San Francisco, her name is, I don't know, Straub street or something like that. She sold it to him. Later on, she found out who he really was. She sent me a wire. So a thousand's okay, huh? No. So how much? 2,500. And you're crucifying me. That watch you gave me never kept. All right, all right, all right. 25, 2500. That's expense account item two. $168.73 airfare and incidentals. Hartford to San Francisco. I arrived at 8 in the morning. On the way in from the airport, the fog began to roll in from the bay. From my hotel room at the Fairmont, I looked out in time to see the provision barge moving out toward Alcatraz before the fog closed in completely. Somebody said the storm warnings were up all along the coast. And somebody was right. By 11 o'clock, a light rain had begun. To patter over the fog bound bay City. Item three, 23 bucks. One trench coat. I was wearing it when I spent another buck. Item four, cab fare. This time to get me from San Francisco's Fairmont Hotel to Ed Julian's address on another part of San Francisco's Nob Hill. There in the drizzling rain, I interviewed not Ed Julian, but one of San Francisco's older but more stable residents. The uniform said he was a member of the property police. Hey. Hey, you I just met there. Just a minute. Nobody lives there. And I hope your sake, boy, you ain't no Jimmy Artist. Because I got me a gun under this raincoat. I'm no Jimmy Artist. I'm just trying to locate a man named Julian. Julian? That's right. Mr. Sarcovetti lived here. Well, according to my records, Mr. Sarcometti and Mr. Julian are the same man. Well, he ain't here now. Moved out bagging Baggage a week, 10 days ago. Whatever name he used? Uh huh. Don't suppose you have any idea where he went, do you? Nope. You happen to see him move? Yep, him and his wife and their clothes. Left all their furniture, huh? Didn't have any to leave. This place was furnished for them. They're the kind of people who never own more than they could carry. That's the way I figured them. Fast traveling and short acquaintances. Now, I once knew a feller up in King City. You see, King City's about 45 miles north of here. That's how the Ed Julian matter stood on a rainy morning in San Francisco. Nothing out of the ordinary for Ed Julian. Yet all around me there seemed to be some sort of a dark, threatening undertone that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Whatever it was, it troubled me. Standing out in the rain talking to that old man. It still troubled me when I made my way back down the hill and found to my surprise that the San Francisco classified telephone directory listed Edward Julian Enterprises expense account, item five, 10 cents. One phone call. Hello? Hello? I'd like to talk to Mr. Julian, please. He's not in. Secretary's out. Would you like to leave a message? Well, this is Johnny Dollar calling. He doesn't know me, but I leave the message for him. When do you expect him back? Never. The rain was just starting up again as I stood in front of the floor level office at Powell and Hooker. On the door it said, edward Julian Enterprises, Incorporated. And below it it said, walk in. I did. Hello? Hello? Who's that? Hello? Hello? Who are you looking for? Ed Julian. He isn't around now. Maybe I can help you. Well, maybe you can. I'd like to know something about his enterprises. Why? Boy might want to invest some money. What's funny about that? You were the guy that called me a little while ago. Yeah, I called. I suppose you're the one I talked to. What's your angle? I want to find Julian. So do I. So do a lot of people. What's that name? Johnny Dollar. And I'm Ray Gumby, Ed's attorney. Come on in here. It's warmer. I followed Ray Gumby to the back office of the two office suite. Watched him as he stood in front of the gas heater. Medium sized man, 50 or so, wearing a tan sport coat, a wool scarf, a turtleneck sweater. Not exactly the conservative attire usually expected of members of the bar. But then he looked happy about it. Now sit down, Dollar. Have a drink. Thanks, Mr. Gumby. Well, cheers. Now you ask about Ed's enterprises. Well, I tell you right now they aren't much. He has an oil field, a piece of a gambling casino, a piece of a racetrack and a part of a ship and part of a smelter works. What does he do? A couple of weeks ago he up and unloads it all. I've had a little cold. With all this weather we've been having. Why do you want to find him? To protect him. That's cute. Personally, I wish the bum would get pneumonia. He left me holding a sack here. How's that? I formed these corporations for him and acted as chairman on all the boards. Then he sold out from under me. Didn't even bother to say goodbye or pay me off. You want to find him too then? You bet you. I'm suing for proper fees. Think it'll do any good, Mr. Gumby? No, I don't think so. I mean, as far as me getting my money goes. But if I can get him subpoenaed and he ignores the subpoena, the court will issue a warrant on contempt charges and throw his carcass in jail for a while. If he was behind the bars and I went to visit him, maybe I could handle him. The bar is between us, of course. Of course. You want another knock? No, thanks. You go ahead. That sounds pretty good. It is. Getting him in jail. Yeah, if I can get him served. It's not going to be an easy job getting those papers into his hands. Two of my regular boys have already tried and failed. I'm a fool ever to accept such a man as a client. Never do such a Thing again. Well, if it makes you feel any better, Mr. Grumby, the man I'm working for said practically those same words to me in Hartford yesterday. It doesn't make me feel any better. I wish it did. And I wish you luck protecting him. Hey, Mr. Gumby. Something just occurred to me. Well, now, maybe we could work this out together. How? You want Julian to be served with a subpoena so you can have the police pick him up? I want him to be safe. And there's no safer spot than the city jail. Hey, where's that subpoena? Right here. And there's a fee in it if you can get it in his hands. 200 maybe. All right. You say two of your men have already tried and failed to get to him. What happened to them? Been to his place on Knob Hill. I was there earlier today. He moved out. I know, but my men went up there to serve him. Both of them fell down two flights of stairs. Seems like a myth. Maybe Ed isn't living in such high places these days. I hope not, for your sake, $. Now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's intriguing episode of this week's story. Tomorrow. That's when I begin to find a myth can be stranger than fiction. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by John Dawson, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar, Skyline apartment. Johnny Dollar speaking. What? Maybe you don't remember me, but I remember you. I was there last night and got banged on the head by a pair of hoodlums. I know nothing about it and I can't talk now. Well, then you can listen. I'm coming over there in about an hour. I hope your two hoods are there when I show up. Will you tell them that for me? I'll deliver the message if you wish. Do that tonight in every weekday night. Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed Expense account, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense Account. Submitted by Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to Sam Rubin and Associates Insurance Brokers, Majestic Building, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an accounting of expenditures during my investigation of the Salt City matter. Expense account. Item 8, $10 medical bill for two stitches in my scalp. Item 9, $0.10. One more phone call to the prettiest insurance broker in San Francisco.
- [22:42]
Joe McNabb
You Said you'd buy me lunch.
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Johnny Dollar
Something's come up.
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Joe McNabb
I don't care what you say. You said you'd meet me. Meet me.
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Johnny Dollar
Item 10. $2 more of that ever loving cab fare. This time I kept the cabbie waiting outside Eleanor Stover's apartment. Johnny. Johnny. Hi, angel.
- [23:03]
Joe McNabb
I didn't want to be a witch, but I did want to see you, if only for a minute. Come in.
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Johnny Dollar
Can't. My cab's waiting downstairs.
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Joe McNabb
What happened to you?
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Johnny Dollar
Oh, I argued a little bit with two of Ed Julian's hired hands. He has a little muscle around him these days. No one to worry.
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Joe McNabb
Johnny, I feel responsible.
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Johnny Dollar
Why?
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Joe McNabb
Like a big dope. I was the one who sold him that insurance policy. Now you have to mix into it and try to keep him alive. You look like the one who needs protection.
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Johnny Dollar
Well, don't look at it that way. If you hadn't sold him the policy, I'd never have come to San Francisco and I'd never have met you, and.
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Joe McNabb
You wouldn't be here right now.
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Johnny Dollar
I'll call you later. Ellie.
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Joe McNabb
Yes, John?
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Johnny Dollar
I didn't tell you this part. I'm going to serve a subpoena on him and try to get him to appear in court. I don't expect you'll pay any attention to it. And then they'll issue a warrant for his arrest for contempt of court. I figured he'd be as safe in jail as anywhere else.
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Joe McNabb
What subpoena?
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Johnny Dollar
An attorney who worked on a few deals with him. A man named Ray Gumby. Oh. Take care. I went back to my cab and told the driver to take me to the Skyline apartments. When we pulled up in front, the same kind of things were going on in the same lobby. Well, hello, Moishe. Oh, Mr. Swift, let me. Swifty. Swifty. You're in here looking for trouble and you're going to get it. I thought you found that out once. I sure did, and I sure am. Where's your tall, skinny friend? He's coming. Look, you. Well, if it isn't a row boy from a heartfelt. How many times do we have to toss you out of here? You've hit your quota. I only get tossed out of one place at one time. What floor is Julian on? The fourth. But they don't mean get out of my way. Not so fast to have to mess you up all over again. All right, Weisenheimer. This is a knife. This is a gun. Oh, that way, huh? Yeah. Put that thing away, boys. I got two stitches in my scalp from you boys last night. I'LL always have a little scar from them. And somehow I think you should have the safe. Under the circumstances, it seemed like the honest thing to. I left both of them in the lobby and took the elevator unescorted up to the fourth floor. But I was disappointed once more. Ed Julian didn't answer the door. But a small blonde girl who looked like she might have been having a good cry did.
- [25:24]
Joe McNabb
Swifty.
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Johnny Dollar
What do you want?
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Joe McNabb
You're not Swift.
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Johnny Dollar
Is that Julian here? Swifty didn't let you come up here? He won't let anybody up here.
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Joe McNabb
How'd you get inside?
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Johnny Dollar
Why don't you invite me in and I'll tell you all about it?
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Joe McNabb
Are you a policeman?
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Johnny Dollar
No, ma'am. All right.
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Joe McNabb
Why not? Come on in.
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Johnny Dollar
Whoever you are, mister, you're taking some awful chances. Well, let's say I'm a friend of Ed's. Ed hasn't got any friends, and I know all of them. What's your name? Johnny Dollar. Where do I find him?
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Joe McNabb
I'm Ed's wife. My name's Lorraine.
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Johnny Dollar
I know you. I mean, I know a friend of yours. Eleanor Strober. She said she went to high school with you about 10 years ago. A million years ago.
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Joe McNabb
At least a million.
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Johnny Dollar
How did you know her? I'm in the insurance business. Do you expect Ed back soon?
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Joe McNabb
I don't expect anything anymore.
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Johnny Dollar
No. What do you want to see him about? Business. I'd like to wait for him. You got this far, you might as well.
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Joe McNabb
What about Swifty and Luke downstairs?
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Johnny Dollar
They. They were glad to see me come up. You. You want a drink or something? You ought to take off your hat and coat.
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Joe McNabb
It'll be cold for you when you. Did they do that?
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Johnny Dollar
Yes. It wasn't too easy getting in.
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Joe McNabb
Those dirty punks.
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Johnny Dollar
Can I.
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Joe McNabb
Can I fix it or something?
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Johnny Dollar
Doctor just tucked two stitches in and it'll be okay. I'm sorry.
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Joe McNabb
You seem like a nice guy.
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Johnny Dollar
You seem like a nice girl.
- [27:21]
Joe McNabb
What?
- [27:23]
Johnny Dollar
I said, you seem like a nice girl.
- [27:28]
Joe McNabb
Nobody said anything like that to me since I married Ed. You aren't supposed to be nice when I love somebody like Ed. Julian.
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Johnny Dollar
Well, my job is to protect him. From who or what? I don't know, but to protect him, I want to find him. You won't protect him here.
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Joe McNabb
He hasn't been here for a couple of days.
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Johnny Dollar
Where is he? How should I know where he is?
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Joe McNabb
How should I know? I'm only his wife, the hired girl. Those others came in town.
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Johnny Dollar
What others?
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Joe McNabb
Those from the east, ugly men with yesterday. No, I Guess it was the day before Ed was here with one of them. A man named Chilly Winters. They sat right there, drinking, talking. Then they both went out together. I didn't like the way that chili looked.
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Johnny Dollar
Where'd they go? I don't know. Oh, get out of here, Johnny.
- [28:27]
Joe McNabb
You're not gonna find him here, ever. Go on, beat it.
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Johnny Dollar
He'll kill me.
- [28:31]
Joe McNabb
If he found me talking to anybody, he'd kill me. I know.
- [28:39]
Johnny Dollar
I didn't want that to happen, so I left. No one was in the lobby to say hello, fire a bullet or use a blackjack. I spent another hour downtown at the hall of justice looking up the record of Chilling Winters. A list of felonies ranging from armed robbery to assault with a deadly weapon. He'd been convicted twice on the latter charge, once in Michigan and once in California. It seemed likely that tracing him might prove helpful in locating AT Julian. But he was not to be located either. About 3 o'clock in the afternoon, after a fruitless day of trying to locate Winters or Julian or both, I went back to my hotel room. Oh, Mr. Dollar. Mr. Dollar. Now what? Do you remember me? The desk clerk at the Skyline? Yeah, I remember you. I must apologize for what happened. I mean, all the trouble you had with Mr. Swift and Mr. Luke. They didn't handle the matter very well. No, they didn't. What's on your mind? Well, I'll be very blunt. Two things are on my mind. Ed Julian and your problem in locating him. I'm just a desk clerk. I need every penny, you know. I hope you're sawing it away. I took an awful chance coming here. You asked for Mr. Julian twice yesterday. You found him neither time. Come on, get to it, will you? Well, I know you aren't a thug like those others. I mean, I didn't know until Mrs. Julian told me you were an insurance man. Well, anyway, I know where Mr. Julian can be found. Where I'd hoped you'd be able to. Here, this is all I'm able to. Now, where is he? Thank you, Mr. Della. I just happened overhear this morning when I was working the switchboard. Mr. Julian, well, he's in Salt City, California. The Salt City Smelter Company, I believe. One of his enterprises. It seems he went there with a Mr. Winters because there's going to be a kind of a big meeting of all of them there, Mr. Reno and others, sometime this week. Does that make sense to you, Mr. Dollar? It might. Yeah. All right. You've got your money? Oh, yes, thank you, Mr. Dollar. Oh, and please, please don't mention to anyone that I was here, that I disclosed this to you. I'd lose my job if it got out and I needed to pay. A local filling station furnished a map of California which located a place called Salt City about 300 miles away in the desert. I decided to ask a man who might know about it. Ray Gumby, Attorney at Law.
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Joe McNabb
Uh oh.
- [31:01]
Johnny Dollar
What? I've handled correspondence from there. Not on the beaten path. Well, that doesn't tell me much. As near as I can gather, it's an enterprise town, lock, stock and barrel. Uh huh. Ed Julian's going over there. Let's forget all this. At least my part of it. Why? I don't want you to go that far in trying to get him back here. False city's real bad news. Yeah, sounds like it. Mr. Gumpy, let me ask you something. Why are you going this far on this case? Sounds like a loser to me. I don't know, Mr. Gumby. I don't know. But I've had the feeling ever since Ed Junior's name was first mentioned that something was happening. Something way off somewhere, but so close I could touch it. That's funny. I've had the same feeling. Expense account item $1138. Transportation by train, San Francisco, Salt City and return. It was just coming up dawn when the conductor nudged me out of a restless sleep and told me the Salt city stop was 60 seconds long. I took my bag and stepped off onto the dry, sunbaked clay that served as a station platform. Then I looked around and saw a yellow, grimy little town stuck along one side of a yellow, grimy little mountain. The stacks from an immense smelter rising up to the skyline. The smell of phosphorus and coke in the air. It had been a bad trip to what was obviously a bad place. And naturally enough, bad things began to happen right away. Taxi, mister? Yeah, sure. Where to? Salt City. Smeller works. Know where they are? Oh, yeah, I know where they are. But I ain't taking you there. What? Yeah. Get your hand off of my cab door. Hey, look, get your hand off the door. Call a cop. You better do like he said, pal. Oh, sure. Smart. You ever been here before? Nope. It's the end of the line, pal. I've been here twice. Old times. I promised myself I'd never come back again. And what are you doing here now? Accident. They kicked me off that free. I get nightmares about this place. I remember the first cop I ever met here in Salt City. While I was spelling my name to him, he hit me in the face several times. Oh, it was by mistake, of course. But don't risk any mistakes, friend. I'm not gonna be here long. That's good. That's good. That's real good. You know what? What? Somebody made this dump and then forgot about it. Just plain forgot about it. I no bird sang, no dog barked, no cock crowed, nothing. Nothing but that feeling inside of me. And something saying, it's going to happen here. It's going to happen here. And now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's intriguing episode of this week's story. Tomorrow? Well, maybe I was psychic or something. Because tomorrow is when that feeling, that hunch, turns into action. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by John Dawson, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar ready with your call to San Francisco. Go ahead, please. Hello? That you, Johnny? Yeah. I'm in Salt City. I'm surprised they have phones there. How does it look? Located Ed Julian yet? I just got here. It looks terrible. And I haven't even located a hotel room. Mr. Gumby, if I have any luck at all, I'll be back in San Francisco by tonight. Where's Ed Julian? I'll serve the subpoena on him if he's around. From what I've been able to pick up, there isn't much of a law enforcement agency here. You get that subpoena in his hands and he'll have to answer to it. He's still in this county, even if they have to use state police to grab him. Okay. Anything I can do for you here? Yeah. Find out how a town like this ever got built. Tonight and every weekday night, Bob Bailey and the transcribed Adventures of the man with the Action Packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Doll. Expense account submitted by special investigator Johnny Dollar. 2. Samuel Rubin & Associates Insurance Brokers, Majestic Building, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an accounting of expenditures during my investigation of the Salt City matter. It all started when Sam Rubin asked me to bodyguard Ed Julian. Julian was supposed to be in San Francisco, but I never saw him there. I saw his wife and his lawyer and the insurance agent who had sold him the policy, but no Ed Julian. And then a clerk at his apartment told me about Salt City. He didn't tell me much else. I found the Rest out for myself. I checked my bag in a station locker and walked over to the Salt City Bar and grilled expense account. Item 12, $0.10 coffee.
- [37:01]
Joe McNabb
Just get in on the train?
- [37:03]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah, a few minutes ago.
- [37:05]
Joe McNabb
Everybody calls me Connie.
- [37:07]
Johnny Dollar
Everybody calls me Johnny.
- [37:09]
Joe McNabb
That's nice. Never seen you around here before.
- [37:12]
Johnny Dollar
Well, I've never been around here before.
- [37:14]
Joe McNabb
Gonna stay long?
- [37:15]
Johnny Dollar
I hope not. No fault of yours.
- [37:19]
Joe McNabb
I can't blame you. Soon as I get a steak for myself, I'm pulling out, too. All kinds of funny things going on around here now. For instance, last week I. Hello, Mr. Reno.
- [37:34]
Johnny Dollar
I recognized him from the Landry killing that he'd stood trial for in Baltimore in 1950. He still looked like his pictures. Tall, thin, quiet. I'd always wondered where he disappeared to after his lawyer got him off with a bought jury. My name is Jim Reno. I run this restaurant. Everything all right? Everything's fine. Oh, it's good. Good. You ought to have some of us, too, this time of morning. Sure, it's the thing. Connie, why don't you go back in the kitchen and put some stew on the fire, huh?
- [38:05]
Joe McNabb
Well, Mr. Reno, I don't cook. You know that.
- [38:08]
Johnny Dollar
Learn.
- [38:10]
Joe McNabb
Yes, sir. Yes, sir.
- [38:13]
Johnny Dollar
You wouldn't be connected with the Salt City Smeller works, would you, Mr. Reno? I own them. With some other friend then. You might know Ed Julian. I understand he owns. Yes, yes, I know Ed. He's out there at the Smell of Works, staying in a cottage right by the office. I'll call you taxi if you like. Well, the last taxi driver I asked to drive me out there threatened to call a cop. Well, this town, it's better if I call, you know. Small town. Sure. Finish your coffee, Mr. Dollar. What? I'll call the cab for you. I own the taxi company, too. Expense account item 12. 10 more cents. More coffee. While I waited for the cab to appear. Somehow I wasn't surprised that Jim Reno had been able to read my name in the coffee grounds. But by that time, I'd learned not to be surprised by anything in Salt City. Item 13. 50 cents tipped. The cab ride out to the smeller works was on Mr. Reno. The chimneys and stacks were dark and sullen against a gray storm gathering sky. The only sound was a gasoline generator somewhere. Lights were on at intervals across the smoky area. One dim light burning in a little yellow cottage just inside the main gate caught my eye. No one seemed around to ask questions of me, so I walked in. Ed Julian and another man I didn't recognize were sitting in chairs opposite each other. Neither of Them moved or flicked an eyelash. They just sat there propped up, staring at each other. I got closer and decided one could get surprised in Salt City. They weren't dead. Dead men don't perspire. Dead men don't have pulses. Dead men don't breathe. They were just kind of in between. If you ever walk into a house in Salt City and find two men just sitting in a room quietly staring at each other, and they aren't dead, turn around and walk out. Giant dollar. Don't fall down on your hands and knees and crawl around the floor like I did. Don't start to laugh to yourself about nothing at all. Don't get weepy and perspire. And don't prop yourself up against the wall and wait for something to happen. Then I could see somebody standing beside me, looking down. I couldn't move my arms or my legs. And that seemed pretty funny. Somebody laughed about it. Then it came to me. I was doing the laughing. The noise was coming out of me. Somebody leaned down and took my gun out of my shoulder holster. He was wearing gloves and dark glasses. And then all at once, he had a face. Easy dollar, easy. I'll just take this. Sure, sure. I know all about it. All about it? What is this? You came to town looking for a Julian so you could protect him, maybe serve a subpoena, get him in jail. Well, Ed don't need no protecting. You can see that. He don't need no subpoena. He don't need anything. Dalla. Not now, you hear me? I hear you slipped me something at the cafe. Nah, don't you worry about that. You see, Darla, you were just out on a regular job for Sam Rubin. But she got in a fight in Ed's place in San Francisco. Bashed up a couple of his boys. He came over to Salt City looking for him. He walked in this place and Ed was sitting here talking to Chilly winters. That other fellow's chilly winters. Nah, you're getting it. Chilly winters. A big powder from the East. Bad boy. Ed didn't want you to protect him, did he, darling? No, no, he didn't. He didn't want to take the subpoena. No, he didn't. So you argued with him, didn't you? No. You argued with him like you did with a pair of his boys in San Francisco. You beat them up. Well, Chili got into the argument here, now, didn't he? Chilly might have pulled a gun on you. He was famous for that. I don't know what you're talking. And you had to protect yourself, you just pull out your gun and you shot them both like this. Oh, no. No. Well, Dolly, you just shot and killed Ed Julian. And Chilly Winters. As good a job as anyone in this town ever saw. And I saw it. Guess I'll have to call the police and autopsy report will show they were drugged before they were killed. And how. How are you going to explain that? We don't believe in autopsy reports in Salt City. All our police need is your gun. It won't work, Reno. Now dollar, you know it will. You'll be arraigned, indicted and tried right here in Salt City. It'll be second degree or self defense maybe. Now, if I'd have done it or some of the boys had done it, there'd have been all kinds of trouble. From San Francisco to New York. This is the way it was figured. This is the way you walk right into it. Right smack into it. You crazy fool. You can't do anything. Got to his feet and tried to drag me up with him. And then both of us toppled over into a lamp. And then I had the lamp base in my. In any other place, the next move would have been to run to the nearest police station. But from what I'd heard of the brand of law and order practice in Salt City, that wouldn't have been much help to me. Instead, I walked the three miles back to town, making my way over the crusted arroyos and cactus lands seemed to surround it. My first stop, the Reno Bar and Grill.
- [44:18]
Joe McNabb
Oh, my.
- [44:19]
Johnny Dollar
What happened to you? That's about the longest story in history. Anybody around?
- [44:22]
Joe McNabb
Just you and me, Johnny.
- [44:24]
Johnny Dollar
My full name is Johnny Dollar. I'm an insurance investigator. I came here to see Ed Julian. I saw him. Saw him shot to death. What? Now listen to me. I saw him shot to death along with a man named Chili Winters about half an hour ago. Jim Reno did the shooting with my gun. I better call up. Wait, wait. Now listen to me. Remember I came in here from the station. I made a phone call from that booth outside there. Yeah. I sat down, had some coffee. Two cups. We talked. I remember. Do you remember putting anything in my coffee?
- [44:49]
Joe McNabb
Me?
- [44:50]
Johnny Dollar
What are you talking about? Somebody did. Probably Reno when he came up. Now, look, you said something about wanting to get out of Salt City. Now's your chance. I'll get you out of here. Oh, you got a car? No. All right. Can you buy one for this? 350? I think so. Go do it. I'll wait here for you. You better not wait here.
- [45:08]
Joe McNabb
My room's across the street, second floor.
- [45:09]
Johnny Dollar
Use the back stairway. I'll be there in a half hour. Expense account. Item 14, $350. One automobile, 1948, vintage. The waitress returned with it in exactly one half hour. In another ten minutes, the time it took her to pack two suitcases, we were on the road to San Francisco. Item 15, $18.30. Gas and oil. It took us 7 hours and 20 minutes to make it. Item 17, $50. I gave the waitress the car and the money, then went back to my hotel, showered, shaved and changed clothes and made a phone call. Johnny Dollar. Inspector, you're wanted for murder in Salt City. Police all over the state are looking for you. Yeah, I thought they might be. Inspector, I'll be glad to explain all of it, but I need some time. Come on down and explain it and then we'll see if you can have any. Now listen to me. I was sent to Salt City to be a patsy. Reno wanted to get rid of Ed Jr. Until he went his. Never mind. Well, you've got five minutes to get down here and turn yourself in. Otherwise you'll go out on an APB. I got out of the hotel in about 20 seconds. Cab picked me up and I spent item 15, 3 bucks. Transportation getty to Ray Gumby's office at 8. Julian's Enterprises. No Ray Gumby. Item 16, $8. More cab fare. This time locating Ray Gumby's home address. An apartment over in Berkeley. He took a long time to answer. No. I don't know how he ever made it with the two holes in his neck. He lurched forward and I caught him. Who did it? Mr. Gumby? Swifty, look. You met him at Ed's apartment house. Came by Bob an hour ago. What's all about? Why, Johnny? Why? Why? It was a good question. Little Ray Gumby was a dead attorney. And Ed Julian and chilly winters were dead gunsels. Why? Everywhere I seemed to go, people were dying hard, violently, without apparent reason why. I had one idea. Same old thing. The feeling. The old feeling. It didn't explain anything. It was just there. Now, here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's intriguing episode of this week's story. It winds up tomorrow. The whys and the wherefores. Love and hate. The usual ingredients for big explosions. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by John Dawson, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan SPE From Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar.
- [48:49]
Joe McNabb
Johnny, this is Ellie. I've been worried to death about you.
- [48:52]
Johnny Dollar
You might be even more worried when the papers come out. I'm wanted for murder, Johnny. Now listen to me. I don't have a lot of time to explain it to a policeman. I didn't kill anybody, Ellie. But I need help.
- [49:03]
Joe McNabb
Where can I meet you?
- [49:04]
Johnny Dollar
If I remember right, there's a coffee shop over.
- [49:06]
Joe McNabb
Are they looking for you all over town?
- [49:08]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah, I suppose so.
- [49:09]
Joe McNabb
We better not pick any place like that. I have a blue Ford convertible, A52. You know where Fisherman's Wharf is?
- [49:14]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah.
- [49:15]
Joe McNabb
Go there. Watch for me.
- [49:24]
Johnny Dollar
Tonight. And every weekday night. Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense accounts submitted by special investigator Johnny $2, Samuel Rubin and Associates Insurance Brokers, Majestic Building, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an accounting of expenditures during my investigation of the Salt City expense account. Item 19, $0.25. Car fare to Fisherman's Wharf. Standing there in the light rain, it occurred to me that 48 hours had gone by since I'd last closed my eyes. I might have been reading a little when Eleanor Strauber showed up.
- [50:20]
Joe McNabb
Johnny.
- [50:24]
Johnny Dollar
Johnny. Johnny. Yeah, Johnny. Same old sport.
- [50:28]
Joe McNabb
What have they done to him?
- [50:29]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, easy, Kitty Z. Hey, look, maybe we better get out of here.
- [50:33]
Joe McNabb
Yes, this way.
- [50:38]
Johnny Dollar
All right, fine, fine. Johnny.
- [50:41]
Joe McNabb
What can I do to help?
- [50:42]
Johnny Dollar
Didn't I tell you on the phone I was wanted for murder?
- [50:45]
Joe McNabb
Yes.
- [50:46]
Johnny Dollar
Aren't you going to ask me about that?
- [50:48]
Joe McNabb
You'll tell me if you want to, Johnny.
- [50:50]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, I'm going to tell you, all right. And I want you to go to Inspector Dan Walsh at the hall of justice and tell him. Go on. Well, some of it you know, some of it you don't know.
- [51:00]
Joe McNabb
I know I'm the cause of a lot of it. If I hadn't been so dumb as to sell that big policy to Ed Julian.
- [51:04]
Johnny Dollar
You had no way of knowing. My job was to protect him, get him alive, keep him alive until the company could break their responsibility. And I've been trying to do that. But I had to find Ed Julian first.
- [51:16]
Joe McNabb
Sure.
- [51:16]
Johnny Dollar
One of my best leads was an attorney named Ray Gumby. He hoped to get Julian into custody one way or another. In jail, that seemed a pretty good way for me to protect him. I got a tip from a hotel clerk that Ed was in Salt City with Jim Reno and some others. Go on, Johnny. Well, I took the train over to Salt City. With a subpoena to find Ed. He was there all right. But Jim Reno found me first. He drugged my coffee. And when I went out to see Ed at the Smeller Works, the drug began to work. I saw Ed and Chilly Winters. They were drugged, too. Reno came in a little while later and shot them with my gun. I got away from Reno. He was going to haul me down and let the Salt City police charge me with murder. I think he owns the Salt City police force too. I managed to get back here early this morning. I called the police and tried to explain all this here, but they wouldn't listen. I went over to see Ray Gumby. Ellie Gumby was dying. When I got there, he'd been shot twice. I don't know if the police know about him yet or not. Then I called you.
- [52:16]
Joe McNabb
Who shot Gumby?
- [52:17]
Johnny Dollar
It was those two thugs I tangled with over at Ed Julian's apartment. Swifty and Luke. Only names I know them by. Reno killed Ed Julian and Chilly Winters. Yeah.
- [52:25]
Joe McNabb
Anything else?
- [52:26]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, no.
- [52:27]
Joe McNabb
One place the police won't be looking for you is my office. There's a nice couch there. You need some rest.
- [52:35]
Johnny Dollar
She drove me over to her office and 10 minutes later I was asleep. About 7 o'clock I woke up and for the first time in days, my head was clear. Clear enough to think of a man with a pencil mark mustache who'd sold me information about Ed Julian being in Salt City. I found him in his rooms. Oh, yeah? We got business. What are you. Please, My lapel. You worry about them good and hard. I'm worried about the two men I saw murdered in cold blood in Salt City yesterday. I'm worried about the man who died in my arms early this morning. Most of all, I'm worried about myself. Please. Now look, when you came to my hotel two days ago, you were taking a big chance about telling me where Ed Julian was. But it didn't make sense because your kind don't take chances. What do you mean? I mean somebody paid you to look at me and tell me Julian was in Salt city. Oh, no, Mr. Dollar. Ed's wife didn't know he was there. The police didn't know he was there. No one but you. Now, once again, who paid you to tip me off that Ed Julian was in Salt City? Listen, Mr. Dollar, I'm just a clerk there. It was just as I explained. I happened to be working the switchboard and a call came in for Mr. Julian and I just happened to overhear. You're lying. Please. I was in Ed Julian's apartment. His calls don't come through your switchboard downstairs. He's got a private line. Please. Now, once more. Who paid you to tell me that Ed Julian was in Salt City?
- [53:56]
Joe McNabb
No one paid me.
- [53:58]
Johnny Dollar
Who was it? Tell me if you were. Who is it? Mr. Julian himself. What? Honestly, it is Mr. Julian. Before he left town two nights ago, he told Mr. Swift and Mr. Luke, all of us to make it difficult for you. And then he sent me a special delivery letter with $50 in it and told me to go to you and tell you he was in Salt City. Okay, okay, relax. What? I don't want you to make a move. I just want you to stay where you are for the next half hour. Clear expense account, item 20. 20 cents. Phone call to Eleanor Strober.
- [54:49]
Joe McNabb
Johnny, are you all right?
- [54:51]
Johnny Dollar
I'm getting better every minute. Did you talk to the police?
- [54:53]
Joe McNabb
Yes. They want to see you very badly.
- [54:56]
Johnny Dollar
I'll go to see them as soon as I clear up some other business.
- [54:58]
Joe McNabb
Johnny, be careful.
- [54:59]
Johnny Dollar
Don't worry about me. Did you tell them about Ray Gumby?
- [55:02]
Joe McNabb
Yes.
- [55:03]
Johnny Dollar
They found his body.
- [55:04]
Joe McNabb
You have an awful lot of explaining to do.
- [55:06]
Johnny Dollar
Now, look, I got another pickup for them.
- [55:08]
Joe McNabb
What?
- [55:08]
Johnny Dollar
Not a body, just a hotel clerk. He's in his room at 412 Turk Street. I think he'll be out cold for another 10 minutes. I just conked him. Well, phone the police and tell him to send somebody out to pick him up. He's part of my story and he'll tell it.
- [55:20]
Joe McNabb
But Johnny.
- [55:20]
Johnny Dollar
And tell him to be sure and pick up Swift and Luke for Gumby's killing. Got all that?
- [55:24]
Joe McNabb
I think so.
- [55:25]
Johnny Dollar
See you later, Johnny. Be careful. It was dark by the time I arrived at the Skyline Apartments and took the elevator to the fourth floor. The place looked quiet and deserted. It was, for the most part, except for Lorraine Julian. She looked about the same. Tired, sad.
- [55:52]
Joe McNabb
Johnny Dollar. Isn't that your name?
- [55:56]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah.
- [55:57]
Joe McNabb
What are you doing here?
- [55:59]
Johnny Dollar
Didn't you ever expect to see me again? No. You better go, Wade. You shouldn't be in here, Ed.
- [56:06]
Joe McNabb
Walk in.
- [56:06]
Johnny Dollar
Ed isn't going to walk in, Mrs. Julian. What do you mean? I dropped by to tell you you've been double crossed.
- [56:14]
Joe McNabb
Where is Ed?
- [56:16]
Johnny Dollar
Chilly Winters was gunned in Salt City. Ed Junion was shot to death, too. You're lying. I saw it happen, Mrs. Julian.
- [56:27]
Joe McNabb
Some kind of a trick.
- [56:28]
Johnny Dollar
It isn't so. Not Ed. You haven't seen the papers or listen to the radio. Then they all have the story by now. It is true. Yeah. Yeah, all of it. Ed. Told you to keep me guessing when I came around looking for him, right? Yeah, sure. Maybe you didn't know, but you were helping Jim Reno put the finger on him. I don't believe you. Ed can't be dead. Neither can Chilly Winters then, huh?
- [56:52]
Joe McNabb
It was Chilly.
- [56:53]
Johnny Dollar
They wanted out of the way.
- [56:54]
Joe McNabb
They wanted Chili out of the way.
- [56:56]
Johnny Dollar
Uh huh. Well, Chilly and Ed are out of the way now and Jim Reno's in command.
- [57:02]
Joe McNabb
What a fool. What a fool I've been. I'd have done anything for him.
- [57:10]
Johnny Dollar
He asked me to get you.
- [57:11]
Joe McNabb
Get you to go over to Salt City. I loved him.
- [57:18]
Johnny Dollar
There's no way to bring him back, Lorena. But you can help me get Jim Reno.
- [57:24]
Joe McNabb
How?
- [57:24]
Johnny Dollar
Will you sign a statement? Anything. Get some paper. I wrote it while she sat there and helped me fill in the details. How Ed Julian and Jim Reno planned to get rid of Chili Winters. How Ed Julian took Chilly over to Salt City with him. How before he left, he knew that Ray Gumby had a subpoena out for him and that I, if tipped off, would eventually wind up in Salt City and be a patsy for the killing of Chilly Winters. Only Jim Reno decided he'd be better off if Ed and Chilly were both out of the way. Do you think this will do any good? Can we get Reno for killing Ed? An assault city court? No, but it stands a good chance in this town. How about Gumby, Luke and Swift? I know why. Mr. Gumby knew all about the enterprises. If there had been any kind of investigation. So they just put him out of the way. Yeah. Nice people.
- [58:21]
Joe McNabb
That's one trouble you never usually ask about. The people you fall in love with. You just go ahead and do it.
- [58:29]
Johnny Dollar
We better find a notary public. I have to turn myself into the police. A lot of things have to be explained to them. I think you better get over to Salt City and explain some things there. Donna. Mr. Reno? Yeah. Hello, Lorraine. Those tricks. You killed Ed. Didn't this insurance man tell you that he shot him? Yeah. Don't you worry. You got $50,000 coming to you. Now you want to thank him. 50,000. A lot of money. Why, you hazy, sugar. I'm liable to blow your head off. You killed Ed. Well, I did it for this fella. Had to, kid. Only room for one guy in our business and that's me. And I figured you'd be here, darling. Tough man. Come on. You and me, we're going back to Salt City. The police say I want to talk to you. I'm still your patsy, huh? You're still it, brother. They want you as bad as ever where I run. Thanks. Don't. This thing might go off. Don't move. Lorraine. Is he dead? No, I still. I'll call a doctor. Once.
- [59:51]
Joe McNabb
Once you said I look like a nice girl. Tell me that again.
- [60:00]
Johnny Dollar
Please, tell me. Yeah, a nice expense account. Item 21, $1,000 legal fees to get a lawyer to explain formally what had happened. Item 22, $130 room and board. 23, 135 plain fare to Hartford and. Johnny.
- [60:31]
Joe McNabb
Bye, Johnny. By a Lee, the next time I sell an insurance policy, I'm going to ask for character to recommendations. Then I won't get a nice fella like you in. Johnny. Will you be back?
- [60:51]
Johnny Dollar
Well, I'll have to appear as witness against Jim Reno when his case comes up. Item 24, two bucks, two drinks. Yep, for Eleanor and me. Expense account total $3,262. Remarks? None. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Remember, there'll be another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dollar, beginning next Monday night next week. Proof that a dog's life sometimes isn't so bad. A case that starts out like a lark. Just one big joke, but isn't funny for long. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by John Dawson, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Heard in this week's cast were Barbara Fuller, Jean Tatum, Barbara Eyler, Lawrence Dobkin, Dick Ryan, Jack Edwards, Barney Phillips, Junius Matthews and Tony Barrett. Musical supervision by Amerigo Marino. Be sure to join us on Monday night, same time and station, for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Deller. Dave Elwood. Johnny Northwest Surety. Oh, hiya, Dave. How's the family? Oh, growing like weeds. You wouldn't even recognize. I guess not. It's been a long time. Say, you free at the moment, Johnny? Well, there's nothing going on here except the rent. What's on your mind? I don't know exactly. Maybe smoke, maybe a fire. I got a girl here. You executives really live well. She's pretty enough to say. Why don't you come on over here and meet her? Social or do I get paid for it? You get paid. J$Gigolo. Personal attention to lonely hearts. Special hearts. Why'd you say that? Say what? Lonely hearts. I don't know. Why? Is it a code of some kind? Well, you could call it that, I guess. What's it mean, Johnny? If this girl is telling the truth, it means murder. Tonight and every weekday night, Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator, yours truly, Johnny Dollar. From Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to the home office, Northwest Surety Company, Hartford, Connecticut. The following is an accounting of expenditures during my investigation of the Lonely hearts matter. Item $1.60. Taxi fare from my apartment to the Northwest Surety Building in the office of Dave Elwood, executive claims adjuster. A hardworking little man with thinning hair who, even after 20 years in the game, still couldn't help making every claim a personal matter. He met me in the outer office and led me off to one side. She's waiting inside there. Johnny, I wanted to brief you before you met her. How is she, Dave? Her name is Norma Wells. She's from Chicago. She flew in from there this morning. Hasn't had any sleep. She's pretty upset. Mm. What about her father? Died three days ago. Suddenly, Unexpectedly. What did he die of? Acute enteritis. Supposedly the death certificate hasn't been signed yet. Is that what you meant by murder? Well, his daughter thinks so. Mm. Was he Insured with you? $50,000 term life. Written five months ago. Who was the beneficiary? This daughter? No, his wife. His second wife, that is. The girl's mother died years ago. Welles remarried a month before the policy was issued. A woman named Mabel Burke. The insurance is payable to her. And the Wells girl thinks she killed him? That's what she says. She's pretty mixed up. Why did she come here? And I'm not quite sure. Johnny. Suppose you ask her. Okay, let's go this way. What about that lonely hearts crack you made on the phone? Well, that's how he met this new wife, this Mabel Burke. Through a lonely hearts club. Like they say, marriage is a lottery. In this case, it sounds more like Russian roulette. Yeah? In here. Ms. Wells, this is Johnny Dollar. He's a specialist, an expert in this kind of thing. I'm sure he'll be able to help you.
- [65:22]
Joe McNabb
How do you do, Mr. Mr. Dollar.
- [65:24]
Johnny Dollar
Ms. Wells. Now, I'm going to leave you two alone. I have a couple of things I got to take care of. You just punch the intercom if you want me. Right, Dave. Thanks. Would you. Would you care for a cigarette, Ms. Wells?
- [65:36]
Joe McNabb
No, thank you.
- [65:37]
Johnny Dollar
Yes.
- [65:38]
Joe McNabb
Yes, I will, too. I. Oh, please forgive me. I. I just can't seem to think straight.
- [65:43]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, that's perfectly understandable.
- [65:46]
Joe McNabb
Yeah, thanks. Thank you, Mr. Dollar.
- [65:54]
Johnny Dollar
Sure. Forgive me for being so blunt, but when was the last time you had something to eat?
- [65:59]
Joe McNabb
Why, yesterday morning, I guess.
- [66:03]
Johnny Dollar
Dave? Yes, Johnny? Suppose you could send out for a glass of orange juice, a hot roll, a pot of coffee. Oh, sure. I'll have one of the girls. Go get it. Good. Thanks.
- [66:11]
Joe McNabb
No, no, please. I. I really could.
- [66:12]
Johnny Dollar
You're really going to, though. You're shaking so hard you can hardly hold onto that cigarette.
- [66:17]
Joe McNabb
I know. It's so stupid of me.
- [66:20]
Johnny Dollar
You and your father were pretty close, I imagine.
- [66:22]
Joe McNabb
Yes, until he married her.
- [66:25]
Johnny Dollar
What kind of a woman is she?
- [66:27]
Joe McNabb
Well, she's strange. It's hard to explain. She's. She's sort of vague, fuzzy around the edges, if that makes any sense. It's like she isn't even there sometimes, but away, off somewhere in time or space.
- [66:40]
Johnny Dollar
A little batty, is that what you're implying? No.
- [66:43]
Joe McNabb
No, not really. She could be as sharp as a tack when she wanted to, but something about her. Well, I was scared of her, Mr. Dollar, and I don't actually know why.
- [66:55]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [66:56]
Joe McNabb
My father and I could never be alone. Somehow she always managed to be there, separating us, driving us apart.
- [67:04]
Johnny Dollar
Did she ever say anything that would lead you to believe that?
- [67:06]
Joe McNabb
She didn't have to. Just being there was enough to. All right, I know what you're thinking. Father fixation, second wife, jealous daughter, neurotic imagination.
- [67:18]
Johnny Dollar
It's a possibility, isn't it? No.
- [67:21]
Joe McNabb
Don't you suppose I thought of that? Made allowances for it? Do you think I'm a fool?
- [67:25]
Johnny Dollar
I don't know what to think. Ms. Wells, you told Dave Elwood you believed your stepmother had murdered your father. And so far the only reason you've given is the fact that she was around all the time. Maybe he wanted her around. Maybe that's why he married her.
- [67:38]
Joe McNabb
Of course he wanted her around. That's not what made me suspicious.
- [67:41]
Johnny Dollar
Then what did? The fact that he took out life insurance, named her as beneficiary.
- [67:47]
Joe McNabb
Not at the time. I wasn't suspicious at all, Mr. Dollar. Not until the night he. He died. Oh, I. I was hurt, yes. And I felt out of place. So. Well, I moved out of the house three months ago and took an apartment off the loop. But I. I didn't have the slightest idea she might be planning to kill him.
- [68:11]
Johnny Dollar
Did he carry any insurance before they were married? Some protection for you in case of.
- [68:16]
Joe McNabb
No, he didn't feel it was necessary. He'd set up a trust fund, and there's some bonds and so on that I suppose will come to me.
- [68:24]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [68:25]
Joe McNabb
No, the policy Was entirely her idea. Thinking back, it seems to me she started talking about insurance the first week after they were married. And he finally gave in. If he hadn't, I think he'd still be alive.
- [68:44]
Johnny Dollar
Just what were the circumstances of his death?
- [68:46]
Joe McNabb
I don't know. I wasn't there. She thought of that.
- [68:50]
Johnny Dollar
What do you mean?
- [68:52]
Joe McNabb
Well, he was taken ill suddenly, in the middle of the night. He wanted her to call me, but she wouldn't do it.
- [68:58]
Johnny Dollar
Why not?
- [68:59]
Joe McNabb
She claimed she didn't think it was anything serious, so there was no need of it. Instead, she called the doctor. Her doctor. A few minutes after he arrived, my father died. Then they called me after it was all over.
- [69:15]
Johnny Dollar
This doctor, is he the one who has refused so far to sign a death certificate?
- [69:20]
Joe McNabb
He was going to sign it all right, until I got there and kicked up a scene. An obvious case of acute enteritis, he called it. Then he backed down, Decided maybe he should have another opinion. I went to Father's doctor, but he said there was nothing he could do because he hadn't been called in at the time. He's the one who suggested I come here.
- [69:43]
Johnny Dollar
Why so?
- [69:44]
Joe McNabb
He said the insurance company would help me. Since they were involved too. They'd advise me what to do.
- [69:51]
Johnny Dollar
Well, what did he think about that diagnosis? Acute enteritis, he said.
- [69:57]
Joe McNabb
He said it was possible, but extremely doubtful. He knew Father's physical condition. He treated him for years.
- [70:05]
Johnny Dollar
How long had your father known this Mabel Burke? Before they were married?
- [70:08]
Joe McNabb
Less than a month. He'd answered a lonely hearts ad in the paper. So I found out later, by accident.
- [70:14]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [70:15]
Joe McNabb
They both seemed embarrassed by the way they'd met.
- [70:18]
Johnny Dollar
Was it a private ad or an organization?
- [70:21]
Joe McNabb
A club of some sort? The Rendezvous Club. They have an office on Atlantic Avenue. Mr. Dollar, it's not just imagination. Father's own doctor feels there's something wrong, too. That's why he sent me here. I'm not crazy. She killed him for his insurance. I know she did.
- [70:37]
Johnny Dollar
Maybe. Maybe there's not much to go on. Not at the moment, anyway. Think it's about time for a coffee break? Yeah, I imagine it's a little pastime.
- [70:45]
Joe McNabb
For Mrs. Well, I couldn't really.
- [70:47]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, yes, you could. Yes, you could. Go ahead now. Dig in. I'll be back in a few minutes. Have a word with you, Dave. Right, Johnny. Well, what do you think? I think it needs some looking into. How soon can you get Ms. Wells and me on a plane for Chicago? Hour and a half. I've already checked. Good. I'll have her Get a court order for an autopsy in case the coroner hasn't already asked for one, and we'll take it from there. Then you think the girl is telling the truth? I wouldn't bet on it. Expense account, item 2. $96.40. Transportation from Hartford and taxi. Tips and incidentals. And Chicago. I dropped Norma Wells at her apartment, checked in at a hotel and phoned the coroner's office. I learned that an autopsy request had been filed but was being delayed pending a court order. I informed them that the daughter was available and willing now to cooperate with them. I left my name and asked the office to keep in touch with me. Item 3, $2.10 Taxi to the offices of the Rendezvous Club. Introductions arranged, mail forwarded, lonely hearts mended, and possibly murders plan.
- [71:55]
Joe McNabb
Well, hello.
- [71:57]
Johnny Dollar
I must be in the wrong place.
- [71:58]
Joe McNabb
What do you mean?
- [71:59]
Johnny Dollar
I mean, I. I can't see you as the lonely type.
- [72:03]
Joe McNabb
Oh, I'm not. I mean, I'm not a client. I work here.
- [72:06]
Johnny Dollar
Really? For some reason, I'd always had the idea that these clubs were run by sweet old ladies of 75 or so. Oh, well, I don't exactly run it.
- [72:15]
Joe McNabb
At least I don't own it, if that's what you mean.
- [72:18]
Johnny Dollar
Hey, you're not a client, for gosh sake. Any rules against it? Well, no. Well, how do I go about it? I mean, becoming a client? Well, you either write in or come.
- [72:27]
Joe McNabb
In like you are now. Then you fill out a form, tell all about yourself and attach a photograph and. Look, buster, there's no use trying to kid you. We don't have a woman in our.
- [72:37]
Johnny Dollar
Files under 45 years old. Well, maybe I got a mother complex. What? So I fill out a form. What do you do with it then? We'll keep it on file.
- [72:47]
Joe McNabb
Then we send out bulletins to the active members and forward letters back and forth. Or you can come in here and be introduced and look.
- [72:56]
Johnny Dollar
Are you serious? Don't I act serious?
- [72:58]
Joe McNabb
Well, I don't get it. A young guy with your looks and.
- [73:03]
Johnny Dollar
I bet you're selling something. No, no, as a matter of fact, I just got in town and I'm trying to locate a certain fellow. I. I was told he's a member of your club.
- [73:11]
Joe McNabb
Oh, well, why didn't you say so? What's his name?
- [73:13]
Johnny Dollar
Jonathan Wells.
- [73:14]
Joe McNabb
You probably got his address. Jonathan Wells?
- [73:18]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Have you got a file on him?
- [73:20]
Joe McNabb
Who are you? You're with the police.
- [73:24]
Johnny Dollar
Police? Now, what gives you that idea?
- [73:28]
Joe McNabb
Well, I don't know anything about the.
- [73:30]
Johnny Dollar
Man you're looking for. No, well, suppose we check through the file.
- [73:35]
Joe McNabb
It's not here.
- [73:37]
Johnny Dollar
We don't keep the files. Where do you keep them? They're not here. Well, maybe they're in the next office, through that door there. No, you can't go in there. Relax. Now take it easy. You have no right in there. I won't let you stop. Now you just stand right up there on that desk and stay out of trouble. Let me down. Who do you think you are, anyhow?
- [74:02]
Joe McNabb
You get out of here. You go get a warrant if you want to.
- [74:05]
Johnny Dollar
Who was in here?
- [74:06]
Joe McNabb
Nobody.
- [74:06]
Johnny Dollar
You smoke cigars?
- [74:07]
Joe McNabb
Of course I don't smoke cigars.
- [74:09]
Johnny Dollar
Right there in the ashtray, still burning. Somebody just sneaked out through that door in the hall. Who was he? What's your name?
- [74:16]
Joe McNabb
Tetler. Fanny Tetler.
- [74:18]
Johnny Dollar
How long have you worked here?
- [74:19]
Joe McNabb
A year. Hey, I've got a hunch you're not a policeman.
- [74:23]
Johnny Dollar
I didn't say I was. What about Wells? Have you got a file on him?
- [74:26]
Joe McNabb
No.
- [74:26]
Johnny Dollar
What happened to it?
- [74:27]
Joe McNabb
I don't know what you're talking about.
- [74:28]
Johnny Dollar
Mabel Burke.
- [74:29]
Joe McNabb
Mabel Burke.
- [74:30]
Johnny Dollar
Have you got a file on her?
- [74:31]
Joe McNabb
Of course not.
- [74:32]
Johnny Dollar
What do you mean, of course not? She and Wells met through this club.
- [74:35]
Joe McNabb
Look, buster, Mabel Burke owns this club.
- [74:54]
Johnny Dollar
Now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's intriguing episode of this week's story. Tomorrow. Another day, another husband, another death, and a sweet little old lady rocks and smiles. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Les Crutchfield, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Duller. This is Max Lancer, Mr. Dollar, DA's office. Oh, the coroner tells me you're cutting yourself in on this Jonathan Wells thing. I'm representing the insurance company. Wells carried a fifty thousand dollar policy payable to his widow. Yeah, so I hear. What about the autopsy? Any results? Not yet. The coroner's still working on it. I understand it was well's daughter who called you fellas in on this case. Yes, on the advice of her family doctor. I know. I talked to him. Only his version puts a different slant on things. What do you mean? But he thought she was suffering from temporary hysteria. He was only trying to calm her. He didn't think she'd really fly back to Hartford and stir up a mess like this. I see. Her father's sudden death must have been quite a shock to her. It may have caused her to imagine things. Things like murder maybe. It's possible. Anyway, what do you think? I think I'll wait for the results of that autopsy, Mr. Lancer. I'll keep in touch tonight and every weekday night. Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. From special investigator Johnny Dollar to the home office, Northwestern Surety Company, Hartford, Connecticut assignment, the lonely hearts matter Location, Chicago, Illinois. Expense Account continued Item 6. Two dollars and ten cents for a late lunch at my hotel. I finished it, went up to my room and started trying to fit the few facts I had into some kind of a pattern that made sense. Max lancer at the DA's office might be right. Maybe it was nothing more than just hysterical suspicion. And she'd admitted herself that she was hurt and jealous when he married Mabel Burke. Sudden death could still be natural death. And yet all I could do at the moment was wait for the results of that autopsy. Yeah?
- [78:04]
Joe McNabb
Mr. Dollo?
- [78:05]
Johnny Dollar
Who is it?
- [78:06]
Joe McNabb
It's me, Norma. Well?
- [78:07]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, all right, just a minute. Come in. Come in, Ms. Willis.
- [78:15]
Joe McNabb
Thank you.
- [78:17]
Johnny Dollar
What's wrong?
- [78:18]
Joe McNabb
I'm scared.
- [78:19]
Johnny Dollar
Of what?
- [78:20]
Joe McNabb
I don't know exactly.
- [78:21]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, well, here, here, run over here and sit down.
- [78:24]
Joe McNabb
Oh, thank you.
- [78:26]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Now what do you mean you don't know exactly?
- [78:31]
Joe McNabb
Could I be be losing my mind, Mr. Dollar?
- [78:34]
Johnny Dollar
If you were, you'd be the last one to think so. Now tell me what's happened.
- [78:38]
Joe McNabb
Well, I went to the coroner's office to sign the authorization for the autopsy and then went back to my apartment. And a little while later the phone rang and when I answered it there was nobody on the line.
- [78:50]
Johnny Dollar
A wrong number maybe?
- [78:51]
Joe McNabb
No, I mean. I mean there was somebody on the line but they didn't say anything. I kept saying hello and then there was a click and the line went dead.
- [79:03]
Johnny Dollar
And that's all that happened?
- [79:04]
Joe McNabb
No. A short time afterward I heard footsteps out in the hall. They stopped at my door and I kept waiting for someone to ring the bell. When they didn't, I finally got up enough courage to open the door. There was nobody there.
- [79:20]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [79:22]
Joe McNabb
A few minutes after that the phone rang again. The same thing as before. I couldn't stay there any longer. I ran out and got a taxi and came here.
- [79:30]
Johnny Dollar
Well, who do you think might be doing a thing like that, Ms. Wallace?
- [79:33]
Joe McNabb
I don't know, but somebody is. I'm not just imagining things.
- [79:37]
Johnny Dollar
Max Lancer, the DA's investigator. Seems to think you might be.
- [79:41]
Joe McNabb
I know. He talked to me at the coroner's office. That's why I came to you. Mr. Dollar, you've got to help me.
- [79:47]
Johnny Dollar
Please be glad to. But how?
- [79:50]
Joe McNabb
There must be something you can do.
- [79:51]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Yeah, I can wait for that autopsy report. And at the moment, that's about all I can do. Without some definite evidence of a crime, something stronger than mere suspicion, we don't have a leg to stand on.
- [80:01]
Joe McNabb
But suppose the report doesn't show anything?
- [80:06]
Johnny Dollar
Then I wipe the egg off my face and go back to Hartford.
- [80:09]
Joe McNabb
But look, maybe she was clever enough to kill my father in some way that wouldn't show up in an autopsy.
- [80:16]
Johnny Dollar
Such as?
- [80:19]
Joe McNabb
I don't know. But I do know, as sure as I'm sitting here, that she married him and got him to take out that insurance policy with the full intention of murdering him.
- [80:29]
Johnny Dollar
Well, such things have been known, all right. Somebody using a correspondence club to contact wealthy pigeons. Did you know that your stepmother owns that Lonely Hearts Club?
- [80:39]
Joe McNabb
Owns it.
- [80:39]
Johnny Dollar
That's what the girl in charge told me. A Fanny Tetler. Do you know her?
- [80:43]
Joe McNabb
No, I've never heard of her. And neither Mabel nor my father ever mentioned that she owned the place.
- [80:49]
Johnny Dollar
She apparently has somebody running it for her. A man, I think. Any idea who he might be? No, he slipped out before I got a chance to see him. Smoked cigars? He left one burning in the ashtray.
- [80:59]
Joe McNabb
Wait. Maybe it's Burton.
- [81:01]
Johnny Dollar
Burton?
- [81:02]
Joe McNabb
Burton Creeley, her nephew. He smokes cigars.
- [81:06]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, that's the first I've heard of him.
- [81:08]
Joe McNabb
He's detestable. He moved in on us right after Mabel and my father were married. He's the main reason why I left the house. I couldn't stand him. He was always after me, bothering me.
- [81:20]
Johnny Dollar
Is he still living there?
- [81:22]
Joe McNabb
I guess so.
- [81:23]
Johnny Dollar
Was he in the house the night your father died?
- [81:25]
Joe McNabb
Yes. At least he was when I got there. That was an hour afterward, as I told you.
- [81:30]
Johnny Dollar
Does he have a job, work anywhere?
- [81:31]
Joe McNabb
I don't think he's ever worked. He lives off of her.
- [81:36]
Johnny Dollar
He and your father get along all right.
- [81:38]
Joe McNabb
My father could get along with anyone. He always managed to see the best in people. And then Burton was careful to act different around him.
- [81:47]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [81:48]
Joe McNabb
I suppose you think that's some more of my imagination.
- [81:51]
Johnny Dollar
Frankly, Ms. Wells, I don't know what to think.
- [81:53]
Joe McNabb
If there was only some way to prove what I'm sure of.
- [81:57]
Johnny Dollar
Well, let's wait for that autopsy report. Meantime, I think I'll go out and talk to your stepmother.
- [82:02]
Joe McNabb
What about me.
- [82:03]
Johnny Dollar
Stay right where you are. Don't go out of this room. When I get back, we'll pick up some things from your apartment and you can check in here at this hotel for a few days. Expense Account, Item 7. Taxi to Lakeshore Drive and the beachfront residence of the late Jonathan Wells. I was beginning to feel more and more like a fool. It looked as though Max Lancer might be right. Apparently, a jealous, hysterical girl had lost her head and stirred up a nasty mess. All without one single fact to back up her suspicions. I had a hunch the autopsy report was going to show death from natural causes. For 2 cents, I'd have thrown the case over. In fact, I didn't even see where I had a case.
- [82:51]
Joe McNabb
Good afternoon, young man. How are you?
- [82:53]
Johnny Dollar
How do you do? Are you Mrs. Wells?
- [82:55]
Joe McNabb
Yes, that's right. Is there something I can do for you?
- [82:58]
Johnny Dollar
My name is $. Johnny $. I'm representing the company that holds the insurance policy on your late husband's life.
- [83:03]
Joe McNabb
Oh, well, you must be mistaken. Mr. Morningby represents that company, young man. Mr. Matthew R. Morningby.
- [83:09]
Johnny Dollar
Mr. Morningby is the local agent. I'm from the home office in Hartford, Connecticut.
- [83:14]
Joe McNabb
Oh, I see.
- [83:15]
Johnny Dollar
Yes, I have my credentials right here, if you'd like to see.
- [83:18]
Joe McNabb
Oh, no, no, no, no. That isn't necessary. I always judge people by their faces. And you have an honest face, Mr. Darling.
- [83:24]
Johnny Dollar
Thank you. I wonder if I could ask you a few questions, Mrs. Wells.
- [83:28]
Joe McNabb
Well, I suppose so.
- [83:30]
Johnny Dollar
I know this must be painful for you, and I'll try to be as brief as possible.
- [83:34]
Joe McNabb
Oh, well, now, don't you worry about me. I'm all right. Of course, I miss Jonathan and all that. He was a terribly nice man. Terribly. But I think of death as just being a doorway to a greater and more glorious life.
- [83:47]
Johnny Dollar
Well, that's one way of looking at it.
- [83:49]
Joe McNabb
You just come right in, young man, and ask all the questions you're a mind to.
- [83:52]
Johnny Dollar
Thank you.
- [83:53]
Joe McNabb
You come right in here and we'll sit down and have a nice chap.
- [83:57]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, this is a very attractive house, Mrs. Wells.
- [84:00]
Joe McNabb
Oh, yes, yes, I think so, too. Jonathan built it years ago. He and his first wife lived here, you know. Of course. I've changed the drapes and things. Just some of the little things. Sit right down there now.
- [84:10]
Johnny Dollar
Thank you.
- [84:11]
Joe McNabb
And his daughter, too. She lived here the first month we were married, and then she moved into town. Oh, strange little thing, really. Sort of nervous and irritating.
- [84:20]
Johnny Dollar
I've met her, Mrs. Robert.
- [84:21]
Joe McNabb
Oh, well, then you know what she's like. Oh, it's too bad, too. Would you like some tea and cookies, Mr. Darling?
- [84:27]
Johnny Dollar
No, thanks.
- [84:27]
Joe McNabb
That's one thing Jonathan wouldn't miss for the world. His tea and cookies at 4 o'clock every afternoon. Every afternoon. The house just doesn't seem the same without him.
- [84:37]
Johnny Dollar
No, I imagine it doesn't.
- [84:38]
Joe McNabb
That's how I won his heart, you know, with my cookies and cakes. Oh, he really did adore them. And it was such a pleasure baking things for a person who appeared. Appreciated them so much. It makes you feel lonesome and lost not having anybody to cook for. Do you ever feel lonesome, Mr. Darling?
- [84:54]
Johnny Dollar
Well, I guess everybody does at times.
- [84:56]
Joe McNabb
Why, at the time I met Jonathan, I was feeling so lonesome I could just cry. Mr. Burke had died two years before.
- [85:02]
Johnny Dollar
Mr. Burke?
- [85:03]
Joe McNabb
Yes, he was my husband before Jonathan. That was in St. Louis, of course.
- [85:07]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [85:07]
Joe McNabb
He was a fine man, too. Walter Mabley Burke. Tall and handsome and impressive looking, just like his name sounds. And a perfect picture of health, right up to the day he died.
- [85:17]
Johnny Dollar
His death was sudden, unexpected.
- [85:20]
Joe McNabb
Oh, yes, a complete surprise. Acute indigestion, the doctor called him. Of course, I don't think he was quite as thoughtful as Jonathan. Jonathan was always so considerate. And he was. Oh, my gracious, here I go, just rambling on and on. You didn't come here to listen to my silly little affairs.
- [85:37]
Johnny Dollar
No, no, no. They're very interesting.
- [85:39]
Joe McNabb
Well, I've always tried to keep busy and keep my mind occupied. That's why I started in business, the Lonely Hearts Club. Oh, well, you've heard about it. Well, I admit I felt kind of foolish at first about starting it. I mean, you know how people josh about those kinds of clubs. It was Burton's idea, really. He's my nephew, you know. Oh, dear, I wish he were here this afternoon so you could meet him.
- [85:58]
Johnny Dollar
So do I.
- [85:58]
Joe McNabb
He's such a nice boy. He thought I'd do real well at that kind of business. And he was right to. Absolutely right. Oh, no money, you understand. But it was loads of fun meeting all those nice people. Especially men.
- [86:09]
Johnny Dollar
Yes, I see.
- [86:10]
Joe McNabb
That's how I met Jonathan.
- [86:11]
Johnny Dollar
So I was told.
- [86:12]
Joe McNabb
That's the way it happened. He wrote into the club and I sent him my picture and that's what started it. I remember when Burton showed me the letter. He said, aunt Mabel, this one sounds like your kind of man. And he certainly was, too.
- [86:23]
Johnny Dollar
Does Burton help you with the club?
- [86:24]
Joe McNabb
Oh, well, he runs it.
- [86:25]
Johnny Dollar
Really?
- [86:26]
Joe McNabb
He's such a sweet boy and he works so hard. I just don't know What I'd do without Burton, I don't know what I'd.
- [86:31]
Johnny Dollar
Yes, I imagine he's a great comfort to you.
- [86:33]
Joe McNabb
Oh, you have no idea, Mr. Darwin.
- [86:35]
Johnny Dollar
I suppose not. Well, I guess I'd better run along.
- [86:37]
Joe McNabb
Mrs. Wells, it's been such a pleasure talking with you. It seems like young folks nowadays don't often have the gift for conversation the way they did in my time.
- [86:44]
Johnny Dollar
Well, things move faster today.
- [86:46]
Joe McNabb
Well, I certainly hope that company of yours moves fast, young man. Well, I have to start house hunting. You know, the estate and everything goes to Jonathan's daughter. And all I have is the insurance. Oh, it's such a bottom, Mr. Dollar. The funeral and moving and all the details. Seems like I just have the worst luck with my husbands.
- [87:09]
Johnny Dollar
I walked out of there groggy, my head spinning. No wonder Norma Wells was nervous and hysterical. I felt that way myself after only a few minutes of it. And I still had no case, not one piece of evidence. I'd had a pleasant chat with a sweet old lady, a little on the dotty side maybe, but that was all dead end. Max lancer from the DA's office was waiting for me in the hotel lobby. You'll notice I'm holding my hat in my hand, Mr. Dallas. How come? It's a symbol of humility. You were right all along. According to the coroner's report, Jonathan Wells died from a dose of ground glass. So it's murder after all. And in that case, do something for me, will you? From now on, I'm your man. Contact the authorities in St. Louis and have them check into a death that happened there about two and a half years ago. A man named Walter Maberly burke. Who's he? Mrs. Wells was married to him at the time. Uh. Oh. Another murder? No, just a matter of bad luck. She told me so herself. Now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's intriguing episode of this week's story. Tomorrow, a strange attack, a scared girl, a hunt in the dark and 13 knots make a noose. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Les Crutchfield it is produced, produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar.
- [89:15]
Joe McNabb
Ready with your call to Hartford, Mr. Dollar? Go ahead, please.
- [89:20]
Johnny Dollar
Johnny, what's up? Plenty, Dave. The Wells girl was right. Her father was murdered. We just got the autopsy report. He Died from a dose of ground glass. Then I'll put a stop order on the insurance claim. It was filed this afternoon. And something else, Dave. A man died in St. Louis about two and a half years ago. I wonder if you'd have Mutual Record Service check and see if he was insured. His name was Walter Maberly Burke. Burke? Yeah. No, Jonathan Wells, widow was previously married to Burke. They were married at the time of his death and he also died suddenly and mysteriously. Holy smoke. Just call her Murdering Mabel. Oh, you haven't met her, Dave. She's just a sweet old lady who's had a little bad luck now and then, and she regards death as the doorway to a greater and more glorious life. Oh, well, that sounds very noble. It would if she didn't keep slamming the door tonight and every weekday night. Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator, yours truly, Johnny Dollar. From special investigator Johnny Dollar, location, Chicago to the home Office, Northwestern Surety Company, Hartford, Connecticut. Assignment, the Lonely Hearts Matter expense account continued item 8, $7.65. Dinner for Norma Wells and myself. It was brought up by room service and we ate alone in my suite. Alma didn't feel like facing the dining room. I was still trying to figure her out when she'd come to me with a claim that her father had been poisoned by her stepmother. For his insurance, I'd tagged her for a jealous, hysterical kid. And that still went. But now with the autopsy report in, it was more than that. She was right. Jonathan Wells had been poisoned. And again, when she told me someone was hanging around her apartment, I only half believed. But by now I was about ready to believe anything.
- [91:34]
Joe McNabb
I'd have sworn I couldn't eat a bite.
- [91:36]
Johnny Dollar
Well, you needed it. You've been going on nothing but nerve.
- [91:39]
Joe McNabb
And I'll still be until this is all over.
- [91:42]
Johnny Dollar
Well, it shouldn't take long. Now, that autopsy report gives us the green light. The police will move in now and we can put the pressure on.
- [91:50]
Joe McNabb
It's such a terrible thing. Why, six months ago, when she married him, she was planning this right then.
- [91:57]
Johnny Dollar
It looks that way all right.
- [91:58]
Joe McNabb
Father was always so good to her and. Yes, and to that worthless nephew of hers, Burton Creeley. What kind of a mind does a person have, Mr. Dollar, to do a thing like she did?
- [92:09]
Johnny Dollar
Well, it hasn't been proved yet that she's the one who did it. Ms. Wells?
- [92:12]
Joe McNabb
No, but who else could have?
- [92:15]
Johnny Dollar
I don't know. More coffee?
- [92:18]
Joe McNabb
No, thanks.
- [92:19]
Johnny Dollar
Well, whenever you finish, we'll take a taxi over to your apartment and pick up whatever you need and then get you a room here at the hotel. I don't think you're in danger, but I imagine you'll feel a lot less nervous here.
- [92:30]
Joe McNabb
I will.
- [92:31]
Johnny Dollar
And.
- [92:31]
Joe McNabb
And I do appreciate your. Your help and kindness, Mr. Dollar.
- [92:34]
Johnny Dollar
Forget it. It's part of my job. Only this time, when you check in, you go to your room and stay put.
- [92:40]
Joe McNabb
What do you mean?
- [92:42]
Johnny Dollar
When I came back from talking to Mabel Burke, Max lancer from the DA's office was waiting for me down in the lobby. Said he'd phoned here to the room five or six times. Got no answer.
- [92:50]
Joe McNabb
I was here. I heard the phone, but. Well, I didn't know if you wanted me to answer.
- [92:55]
Johnny Dollar
They sent a bellboy up to knock on the door.
- [92:57]
Joe McNabb
Well, I must have been in the shower. I was here all the time. Don't you believe me?
- [93:04]
Johnny Dollar
Any reason I shouldn't believe you? Ready? Through eating?
- [93:09]
Joe McNabb
Yes.
- [93:09]
Johnny Dollar
Okay, let's go. Expense account, item nine. A dollar and taxi from the hotel to Norma well's department. Night had fallen over the city, and the tall buildings of the Loop shimmered above the noisy blaze of lights. Laughing groups of early dinner goers jostled through the scrambling packs of late shoppers. Auto horns blaring, jazz newsboys, traffic whistles. Hurry, hurry, hurry. Yesterday never was, tomorrow is only a dream and today is nearly gone. So hurry it up and let's get going. We'll sleep when we're dead. Like Jonathan Wells on his cool marble slab in the city morgue.
- [93:49]
Joe McNabb
It's apartment C, the next door on the left.
- [93:51]
Johnny Dollar
Right.
- [93:53]
Joe McNabb
Have a key here somewhere?
- [93:55]
Johnny Dollar
Sure. You locked it?
- [93:56]
Joe McNabb
Oh, yes, I always. It's not locked.
- [94:00]
Johnny Dollar
Well, you were scared when you left, and maybe you didn't.
- [94:02]
Joe McNabb
No, I remember locking the door.
- [94:05]
Johnny Dollar
You sure?
- [94:06]
Joe McNabb
Yes. Now it's time. What is it, Mr. Dollar?
- [94:24]
Johnny Dollar
Come on in.
- [94:27]
Joe McNabb
Oh. Oh, no.
- [94:30]
Johnny Dollar
It looks as though you've had visitors, Ms. Wells.
- [94:32]
Joe McNabb
The whole place turned upside down. Why would anyone want to do that?
- [94:37]
Johnny Dollar
Looking for something, probably.
- [94:38]
Joe McNabb
For what?
- [94:39]
Johnny Dollar
I don't know. Suppose you look around, see if you notice anything missing.
- [94:50]
Joe McNabb
It's no use, Mr. Dollar. I've gone through the whole place twice now and I'm certain that nothing's been taken.
- [94:55]
Johnny Dollar
But they had to have some reason to break in here. Go through everything this way.
- [94:59]
Joe McNabb
I suppose so, but. Well, I'm positive there's nothing missing.
- [95:03]
Johnny Dollar
All right. If there isn't, there isn't. Well, do you suppose that coffee's ready now?
- [95:07]
Joe McNabb
Oh, I think so come on in the kitchen. I guess you'll believe me now. Somebody was hanging around here earlier today.
- [95:16]
Johnny Dollar
Just wish I could figure what they're after.
- [95:20]
Joe McNabb
Looks plenty strong. There's sugar there on the table. I'll get some cream from the refrigerator.
- [95:26]
Johnny Dollar
Don't bother on my account. I drink it black.
- [95:29]
Joe McNabb
Well, not me. I use plenty of boat. Lots and lots of cream and two heaping spoons of sugar.
- [95:37]
Johnny Dollar
They must have had a reason to break in here. If it wasn't to steal something. Then what was the reason?
- [95:43]
Joe McNabb
Sugar looks funny.
- [95:45]
Johnny Dollar
Doesn't make sense at all.
- [95:46]
Joe McNabb
Guess I ought to keep it covered. The sugar. I was saying it looked funny.
- [95:51]
Johnny Dollar
Well, wait a minute. Maybe they broke in to leave something.
- [95:55]
Joe McNabb
Leave something?
- [95:56]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Here, give me that cup and the spoon.
- [96:01]
Joe McNabb
What are you doing?
- [96:03]
Johnny Dollar
Look.
- [96:04]
Joe McNabb
That's funny. It didn't even dissolve.
- [96:07]
Johnny Dollar
The sugar dissolved. All right.
- [96:08]
Joe McNabb
Well, then, what's that in the spoon?
- [96:10]
Johnny Dollar
Ground glass. I phoned Max Lancer and had him send over a policewoman to accompany Norma Wells back to the hotel, get her checked in and stay with her overnight. Then I called the Wells residence. The old lady answered the phone herself and I asked for her nephew, Burton Creeley. She said he wasn't in. So on an off chance, I took a taxi to the office of the Rendezvous Club, Lonely Hearts Unlimited. There was no light showing behind the transom over the door. The door was unlocked. I fumbled around for a light switch, but somebody beat me to it. Get your hands up. Well, at least I found you in this time. What are you doing here? How are you? Put that gun away, Creely. Or if you're going to use it, you'd better take the safety off first. Safety? What are you doing? All right, let go of it. Really? Thanks. You think you'll get away with this, mister? You're crazy. My mistake. The safety was off. Sorry to rough you up, but I don't like people who go around pointing guns at people without any reason for it. You broke in here? That's illegal entry. I'll have you arrested. Why not? Why not? The phone's right behind you. Who are you, anyway? Johnny Dollar. I'm a special investigator for the Northwest Insurity Company. What? I imagine the name is familiar to you since they're holding a $50,000 life insurance policy on the late Jonathan Wells. With your Aunt Mabel named as beneficiary. What are you doing here? Looking for you, as a matter of fact. What for? I wanted to ask you why you sneaked out through the door there the other day in the office when I was here earlier. I don't know what you're talking about. Oh, knock it off, Creeley. You got in such a hurry you left your cigar burning there. And the ashtray, the same brand you're smoking right now. I thought you were a bill collector. You knew who I was. You were listening there at the door while I talked to your secretary. Now why don't you run out. All right, all right, I did know who you were, Mr. Dollar, but, well, you're misinterpreting things. No kidding. In what way? I was late for an appointment. I didn't want to get tied up. I figured you could find out anything you wanted to know from my aunt. I saw no necessity for talking to you. I see. Where have you been since then? Right here most of the time. And the rest of the time? What difference does it make? You weren't over at Norma Wells apartment by any chance? Are you kidding? I detest that girl. Why so? Because she's a smug, self satisfied little phony. She's too big for her britches. What makes you think I'd be hanging around her? Somebody was. I don't get it. Somebody broke into her apartment this afternoon or this evening and turned it upside down. She hasn't got anything I want. They didn't take anything. They broke in to leave something. I found some ground glass planted in her sugar bowl. Ground glass? Sound familiar? What are you getting at? You mean you haven't heard about the coroner's report on Jonathan Wells? No, why? What has that got to do. Mr. Wells died from a dose of ground glass. You mean he was killed? Murdered. I don't imagine he ate this stuff intentionally, do you? I can't believe it. Well, the police aren't having that trouble. I just can't imagine anybody such a nice guy. He always got along fine with everybody. Including you? Yes, we got to be good friends. What about his daughter, Norma? I don't really know. She blew her top and moved out a month after Aunt Mabel and Jonathan were married. Why? Jealous, I guess she couldn't stand it to see her father pay any attention to anybody but her. Did they quarrel much? Jonathan never quarreled with anybody. No, she just seemed to go around with a mad on most of the time. She's a rare one, that girl. What do you mean? Oh, she seems to think of herself as a princess or something. I understand you made quite a play for her at first. I suppose she told you that, did you? I tried to be friendly to her, that's all. I don't know what she chose to call it. Mr. Dollar. I'm engaged to Ms. Tetler, the girl that works here in the office. What do you do for a living, Mr. Creeley? All right. Take care of this. Correspondence Club for Aunt Mabel. I've got sort of a heart condition. I can't work too hard. I see. You know, it might be a good idea if you checked in with the police. They'll probably want to talk to you. Well, who do they think did it? Well, they haven't arrested anybody yet. But there are a lot of straws pointing in one direction. What direction, George? Your Aunt Mabel, I'm afraid. But that's ridiculous. Now, she may be a little vague, not quite all with it, maybe, but she wouldn't do a thing like that. They're out to frame her, that's what they're doing. Who else had a motive? Mr. Creeley. But what about his daughter? She stands to gain by all this. She inherits the estate. Maybe she faked that burglary, planted the ground glass in her apartment herself. Have you thought of that, Mr. Dollar? Yeah. Yeah, I've thought of it. Now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's intriguing episode of this week's story. Tomorrow, another murder comes to light, another link in a long chain, and an old lady weeps for the wasted years. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Les Crutchfield, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time, in station for the next exciting episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar. Max Lancer. Johnny. DA's office. How is she? Pretty weak. The hospital staff are doing all they can for her, but they don't give her much hope. Has she been able to talk? No, not yet. Maybe not ever. It was ground glass, all right. The doctor's sure of it now, same as her husband. Why Johnny? Why her? I'll guess with you. Maybe she figured we were closing in on her, the game was over, and took this way out. We had nothing on her, Max. Suspicion, that's all we were going on. She'd had two husbands in the last three years. Both of them died from the effects of ground glass poisoning. And both times she goes for $50,000 insurance. That's all we had to go on, and it wasn't enough. But maybe she didn't realize that. I can give you a better theory. Okay, sound off. Somebody tried to murder her tonight. And every weekday night, Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. From special investigator Johnny Dollar. Location, Chicago to the home office, Northwestern Surety Company, Hartford, Connecticut. Assignment, the lonely Hearts matter expense account. Final page, item 15, $2.60. Sandwiches, cigarettes and incidentals, which I had sent up from a lunchroom across the street from the hospital. It was evening again now. I'd spent the whole day in the lounge down the hall from the room where Mabel Burke Wells was fighting for her life. Fighting and slowly losing. I tagged her as a murderous responsible for the deaths of two of her husbands. But then she herself had been struck down by the same poison. And now, only she had the key to the puzzle. A key she might never give up.
- [104:35]
Joe McNabb
Calling Dr. Kenworthy. Dr. Kenworthy. Delivery room.
- [104:40]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, hi. Can he change yet, my aunt's condition? No, no, I just talked to the doctor. If anything, she's even weaker. She didn't even recognize me. I've been in the room off and on all day. She didn't even know I was there. Well, she's in pretty bad shape. Sit down. You look a little rocky yourself. Thanks. I feel that way. Aunt Mabel's been a real mother to me. This is quite a shock. Yes, I imagine. Doctor says it's the same thing that killed Jonathan. Yes, that's right. Well, that dust doesn't make any sense, Mr. Dolly. Say, tell me something. Did anyone come to the house to see your aunt either last night after Lancer left or this morning before I got there? And as far as I know. Why? Do you think someone might have? I don't know. She'd already gone to bed when I came in last night. I left early this morning. It's possible, of course, but I don't believe anyone did. She never had any visitors. She's always been a lonely person, actually. Maybe that's why she started the Lonely Hearts Club. Yes, it was. I suggested the idea to her as a way to meet friends and be around people. She loved it. Why couldn't she and Jonathan's daughter, Norma Wells, get along? She's a strange girl. Always had a chip on her shoulder. I spoke to Jonathan about it once, but he just laughed it off. He said Norma just had too much possessiveness. Yeah, well, I guess it's natural. The two of them had been alone a long time until he married your aunt. Mr. Dollar. Yeah? The police think that Aunt Mabel killed him, don't they? They've got some pretty strong reasons for Thinking so. And the way she is now, dying in there, I suppose they think she did it herself. It's possible she did. Is that what you think? Oh, I'm not sure I am. Oh, come on over, Ms. Willis.
- [106:29]
Joe McNabb
I didn't want to interrupt.
- [106:30]
Johnny Dollar
Just making conversation. You two know each other, I guess.
- [106:35]
Joe McNabb
Yes.
- [106:37]
Johnny Dollar
Well, I think I'll get out and get a cup of coffee. See you later, Doc.
- [106:41]
Joe McNabb
I can't stand that man.
- [106:43]
Johnny Dollar
So I gather.
- [106:45]
Joe McNabb
How is she?
- [106:46]
Johnny Dollar
Not much change.
- [106:47]
Joe McNabb
Couldn't bear just sitting in that hotel room wondering what was happening. She hasn't been able to talk?
- [106:52]
Johnny Dollar
No, not yet.
- [106:53]
Joe McNabb
I don't understand it. My father died less than two hours after he was first stricken.
- [106:58]
Johnny Dollar
Difference in constitution, maybe. Different dosage.
- [107:01]
Joe McNabb
She's too mean to die. She's. I'm sorry I said that. It was cruel and heartless, but that's the way I feel. I can't help it when I think of my father, so kind and gentle, murdered in cold blood by that.
- [107:18]
Johnny Dollar
If she did do it, then why this?
- [107:20]
Joe McNabb
You mean the same thing happening to her?
- [107:22]
Johnny Dollar
That's right.
- [107:24]
Joe McNabb
Remorse, maybe, if she's capable of it. Or fear. I don't know why. Maybe she's insane. I've always thought she might be.
- [107:33]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, she's sane all right. As sane as any of us.
- [107:35]
Joe McNabb
And what do you think happened to her?
- [107:38]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, I don't know.
- [107:40]
Joe McNabb
We probably never will know. She'll die without talking and there'll never be any proof.
- [107:45]
Johnny Dollar
That's a possibility.
- [107:46]
Joe McNabb
That worthless nephew of hers will collect the insurance, I suppose.
- [107:50]
Johnny Dollar
That's not my department, but under the circumstances, I think he'd have a legal claim.
- [107:55]
Joe McNabb
It's horrible. Mr. Dollar.
- [107:56]
Johnny Dollar
What is it, nurse?
- [107:57]
Joe McNabb
She's conscious and she wants to see you.
- [108:03]
Johnny Dollar
She was a dying woman. I could see it the moment Norma Wells and I walked into the room. I sent the nurse to find her nephew, Burton Creeley, and he slipped into quietly. A few seconds later, the old lady lay back on her pillows, smiling to herself as usual, bright eyed with a last burst of false vitality. Death was only minutes away. All of us knew it, and she knew it too.
- [108:28]
Joe McNabb
My gracious, all of you look so serious. But it was nice of you to come. Keeps a body from feeling.
- [108:37]
Johnny Dollar
No, you save your strength now, Mrs. Wells.
- [108:40]
Joe McNabb
What on earth for? Body can't enjoy the last few breaths, might as well not be living. Please, Aunt Mabel, how long you please me, Burton Creeley. Straighten your tie. You look a fright, my. Certainly nice to see you here, Norma. Well, I always said to Jonathan, it's just a crying shame that Norma and me can't hit it off better. He just laughed and.
- [109:11]
Johnny Dollar
Mrs. Wells.
- [109:12]
Joe McNabb
Be quiet, young man. Know what you're after? All in due time. As a matter of fact, that's why I wanted to see you. I've been in my senses for the last hour, but I just didn't let on. I wanted a chance to think. I'm about to die, you know.
- [109:33]
Johnny Dollar
Aunt Mabel, don't talk that way.
- [109:35]
Joe McNabb
Oh, simmer down, Burton. Death is only the doorway to a more glorious life. You remember that, Mr. Dahler. I didn't do it.
- [109:48]
Johnny Dollar
I know. I finally came to that conclusion myself. Too late.
- [109:53]
Joe McNabb
You mean you're not surprised?
- [109:55]
Johnny Dollar
No.
- [109:56]
Joe McNabb
Well, at least it's a help that I don't have to convince you. I'm afraid I won't have that much time. What are you saying? You heard me, Norma. I said I didn't kill Jonathan. I was much too fond of him to do a thing like that.
- [110:15]
Johnny Dollar
Who did kill him, Mrs. Wells?
- [110:19]
Joe McNabb
That's what I was puzzling over for the last hour. Then when I figured it out, I had to decide whether to let sleeping dogs lie or see that justice took its course.
- [110:34]
Johnny Dollar
And easy now.
- [110:38]
Joe McNabb
But I remembered how kind Jonathan had been and decided.
- [110:44]
Johnny Dollar
Aunt Mabel, don't try to talk anymore.
- [110:49]
Joe McNabb
Those chocolates, Burton, that you gave me this morning. Oh, that was an awful naughty thing to do, Burton. And now you'll have to be punished for it.
- [111:01]
Johnny Dollar
Wait a minute, Mrs. Wells.
- [111:03]
Joe McNabb
Jonathan, Walter too. They were always so nice to you. I just can't understand why you did it.
- [111:14]
Johnny Dollar
Mr.
- [111:14]
Joe McNabb
Darling.
- [111:15]
Johnny Dollar
Yes?
- [111:15]
Joe McNabb
You take Burton in hand. Give him. Give him a good talking to. Explain to him, Mrs. Wells, that he must go around. Is she?
- [111:39]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Well, Creeling, get your hands up. $1 move from you and Norma gets a bullet right in the back.
- [111:46]
Joe McNabb
Let go of me.
- [111:47]
Johnny Dollar
Into the closet, Dollar. You full creep. Go on. Now, remember one thing, dollar. I'm taking Miss High and Mighty here along. If they get me, then she goes, too. The door was solid, built to last. It took me several minutes to smash it open. The nurse in the corridor said Creedy and Norma Wells had gone down in the elevator. I grabbed the floor phone and called the main desk in the lobby. They said some man and a girl had just stolen an ambulance from the emergency driveway and headed west onto the Lakeshore Parkway. And at that moment, Max Lancer stepped off the elevator. Johnny, what's going on? Back to your car, Max. Come on. We could hear the ambulance siren for a while somewhere up ahead of us. Then we lost it. Max kept the red light flashing and the accelerator on the floorboard. The speedometer needle edged past 85, touched 90 and hung there. We're nine miles up the parkway when I saw it. Parked cars, a crowd gathering, and the ambulance rolled over against the bank. Where are they? A man in the crew got out of it. They ran into the brush there. He's carrying a gun. Take the east side, Johnny. I'll go around the other way. Right, Max. And watch yourself. The undergrowth was heavy, a mass of dark shadows slashed here and there by beams of light from the headlamps of the cars on the road above. Max disappeared into the night and I moved on alone. Minutes passed. Then a car light shifted slightly and I saw them only a few yards away, crouched against a tree. He was holding the gun, pressed against his side. Hold it, Dollar. You're finished, Creely. You better give up. You know what I told you. If I go, she goes.
- [113:19]
Joe McNabb
Johnny, he's going to kill me.
- [113:20]
Johnny Dollar
I was holding my gun at my side, but I didn't dare lift to try to aim it. One false move on my part and he pulled the trigger. Blast the life out of Norma Wells. Then she struggled slightly, tried to pull away from him. I had a one second chance and I took it. Are you all right?
- [113:40]
Joe McNabb
Yes. Yes, I'm all right.
- [113:43]
Johnny Dollar
I didn't have time to call a shot. I had to get it off fast. Yeah, looks like it caught him in the heart. Expense account, item 16. $231.25. Hotel and incidentals in Chicago and transportation back to Hartford. Expense account total $416.40. End of account, End of report. Remarks. A heart with a bullet hole in it. There's a real lonely heart. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Now here's our star to tell you about next week's intriguing story. Next week, the Calicles matter, which is just another way of saying the Greeks had a word for it. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Les Crutchfield, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Heard in this week's cast were Lucille Meredith, Mary Jane Croft, Virginia Gregg, herb Ellis, Howard McNear and Stacy Harris. Musical supervision by Amerigo Marino. Be sure to join us on Monday night, same time and station, for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar. This is Joe McNabb, Northeast Indemnity. Hi, Joe. Good to hear your voice. It's not mutual Johnny. And I always thought you cared. Whenever I hear your voice, it's because I'm in trouble. Oh, what is it this time? Ever hear of Harvey Stone? Sure. The Stone Corporation and Stone Enterprises and the Stone Foundation. Sounds like he's a foundation himself. Practically late 30s, Bachelor. Took over the management from his father, E.J. when the old boy got crippled up with arthritis last year. So? So the total amount of insurance we're carrying on him is over 100,000. So he lives in New York? Westchester County. Last night he was driving along a road in the country. A small object hit his windshield. Oh, look, Joe, don't tell me you want me to investigate a claim for a broken windshield. I sure do, Johnny. That small object was a bullet. Tonight and every weekday night, Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the Action Packed Expense account, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator, yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense accounts submitted by Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to Northeast Indemnity Associates, Hartford, Connecticut. Following is an account of expenditures during my investigation of the Imperfect Alibi. Expense account, item one, $1, even taxi to the office of Northeast indemnity, where Joe McNabb was waiting for me. It's kind of a complicated situation, Johnny. Yeah, well, it usually is when people get shot at, Joe. Now, mind, we're not sure the bullet was meant for Harvey Stone. He's inclined to brush the whole thing off. Thinks somebody might have been doing a little target practice in the woods. Stray shot, huh? Huh? Could be. Yes, yes, but with the kind of insurance worth carrying on. Yeah. Better give me a rundown on him. Harvey's father, E.J. built up the business. A widower. Two years ago, he remarried. Last year he had to retire. He's in a wheelchair now. I see. Well, now Harvey is running things. Lives with his father and stepmother in a big place in Westchester county, but he also keeps a small apartment on East 57th in Manhattan. Mm. Any trouble in the family, anything like that? Harry's been running around lately with a supper club singer named Helen Barrett. I gather he's thinking of marrying her. I also gather his family is bitterly opposed to the idea. How about Harvey's business affairs? Could he have made any enemies there? One, at least. Who? Dutch Krieger. Know him? Yeah, I sure do. A gambler with a lot of dough behind him and a couple of gunsels in front? That's the one. How come he got mixed up with a character like Krieger? He didn't. He refused to come again. Krieger's put on a big act about going Legitimate? Young Stone was negotiating a sizable real estate transaction. Recently found out that Krieger was one of the associates in the deal. He threatened to call it all off, made the other associates kick Krieger out. Uh oh, Dutch wouldn't forget a thing like that. No, he wouldn't. Who's the beneficiary on Stone's insurance policies? Father and stepmother jointly. Johnny, I smell trouble. I want you to get down there, nose around, see what you can turn up, and do me a slight favor. Sure, what is it? Keep Harvey Stone alive, will you? Expense account item 2. $12.50. Transportation and incidentals to the Stone estate in Westchester County. It was one of those massive, dignified looking places, nestling comfortably in about 10 acres of bronze. The butler showed me into a room only about half as big as Grand Central Station. So I wandered around inspecting the paneling and the Italian works of art. Then I zeroed in on one of the paintings. It involved a luscious lady, a bunch of grapes and a pool of water.
- [119:46]
Joe McNabb
Nice, isn't it?
- [119:48]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah.
- [119:50]
Joe McNabb
The painting, I mean. Quite nice, isn't it?
- [119:53]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, yeah, if you like grapes. You must be.
- [119:57]
Joe McNabb
I'm Mrs. Stone. Mr. Dollar. Daphne Stone.
- [120:01]
Johnny Dollar
Mrs. I didn't know the wedding had taken place.
- [120:05]
Joe McNabb
My, you are behind the times. It took place two years ago.
- [120:09]
Johnny Dollar
Two?
- [120:11]
Joe McNabb
Well, I. I'm Mrs. E J Stone.
- [120:14]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, I'm sorry. Well, is your stepson here?
- [120:20]
Joe McNabb
Harvey? He should be back any minute. He had to run into the city. But let me give you a tip, Mr. Dollar. Don't call Harvey my stepson in front of him. You see, he and I are just about the same age and he's.
- [120:32]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Oh, okay, I'll remember. How about Harvey's father? Is he here?
- [120:37]
Joe McNabb
Yes, My husband will be along in just a moment. He has to get around in a wheelchair now, but he's very stubborn. Won't let anyone push him.
- [120:44]
Johnny Dollar
Well, Mrs. Stone, I think you know why I'm here.
- [120:47]
Joe McNabb
Yes, of course. About that absurd thing that happened to Harvey last night.
- [120:52]
Johnny Dollar
Absurd?
- [120:52]
Joe McNabb
Well, isn't it ridiculous to think that it was an attempt on his life? After all, he will go tearing around these roads at night in his sports car. Probably someone out hunting.
- [121:03]
Johnny Dollar
Is that what you think, Mrs. Stone?
- [121:04]
Joe McNabb
What else could it be? Nobody has any reason to kill Harvey.
- [121:08]
Johnny Dollar
Everything harmonious here at home, I suppose?
- [121:12]
Joe McNabb
Of course.
- [121:13]
Johnny Dollar
How about Harvey's plans to marry Helen Barrett?
- [121:17]
Joe McNabb
Oh, yes, that. That Mr. Dolly. Say, I'm getting a little weary of that name. It's Johnny, isn't it?
- [121:26]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah.
- [121:27]
Joe McNabb
And Daphne. Johnny. Let Me give you another tip?
- [121:32]
Johnny Dollar
You seem to be full of them. What's this one, Daphne?
- [121:35]
Joe McNabb
I wouldn't mention Harvey's fiance to his father. Oh, Mr. Stone is quite violently opposed to the match.
- [121:44]
Johnny Dollar
How about you, Daphne? How do you feel about it?
- [121:47]
Joe McNabb
Why, anything Harvey wants. Oh, Edward, this is Mr. Dollar.
- [121:52]
Johnny Dollar
Yes, yes, I know. Hello, Mr. Stone. That idiot McNabb from the insurance company phoned me about you. Dollar worries like an old woman. Seems to think that fool accident Harvey had last night was an attempted murder. Oh, he's just taking normal precautions, Mr. Stone. Precaution. Well, just as well, I suppose. Harvey could use a nursemaid. He always manages to get things fouled up somehow.
- [122:12]
Joe McNabb
Now, Edward, you want to see my orchids?
- [122:14]
Johnny Dollar
Dollar? Orchids? Of course you do. This way out in the solarium. Okay. Oh, here, let me push you. Never mind.
- [122:20]
Joe McNabb
I can manage all my good advice.
- [122:23]
Johnny Dollar
Sorry, Daddy. This way, $.
- [122:25]
Joe McNabb
I'll have a drink for you when you're ready, Johnny.
- [122:27]
Johnny Dollar
Thanks. Ah, here we are. Well, some orchids. Who cares about orchids? Just wanted to talk to you. Well, what do you make of this business, $? But Harvey. I mean, that bullet in his windshield last night. You really figure somebody's trying to kill him? Well, I don't know, Mr. Stone. That's what I'm here to find out. Well, I don't know who it be. Harvey's not a bad sort, really. Terrible businessman. Oh? How so? I could run the Stone Corporation better than he does for my wheelchair. He doesn't do things your way, huh? Nothing's like it used to be. Everything's done differently now. Maybe it has to be. Has to be? Business is business. Yeah. Well, how about his fiance? I suppose you disapprove of her too? Helen Barrett? No. By golly, I gotta hand it to Harvey there. Don't quite know how he managed to land someone like her. Wait a minute. You mean you're not opposed to his marrying her? More power to him. Chip off the old block, I guess. What's happening? Oh, I did the same thing, that's what. Picked himself a Broadway girl. You mean Mrs. Stone? Daphne. Right out of musical comedy. I see. How does she feel about Helen Barrett? Yeah. Won't seem to warm up to her. Oh, well, how can you figure out a woman? Yeah, how can you? So it's Daphne that disapproves of Helen. That's very interesting. Interesting? It's a nuisance.
- [123:51]
Joe McNabb
Here's your drink, Johnny.
- [123:52]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, thanks, Stephanie. Mr. Stone, you're not having any? No. That fool doctor of mine says no.
- [123:59]
Joe McNabb
Edward, you look tired. Perhaps you'd better rest.
- [124:01]
Johnny Dollar
Tired? Who's tired? Well, then, just one more question, Mr. Stone. What is it? Do you know of anyone who might want to kill Harvey once in a while? I sure would, Edward. I tell you, when I think of how he's running that business into the ground, I could. I could wring his neck.
- [124:16]
Joe McNabb
Edward. It's no time for jokes, Johnny. This whole thing is ridiculous. Harvey hasn't an enemy in the world.
- [124:23]
Johnny Dollar
Well, have you gotten me nicely taken apart by now, people?
- [124:27]
Joe McNabb
Harvey, dear.
- [124:28]
Johnny Dollar
Hello, Daphne. Father, this is Dollar. Harvey. Jimmy, isn't it? Johnny. Yes. I heard Mr. Dollar was coming and. Why, how are you?
- [124:35]
Joe McNabb
You look tired, Harvey. Let me fix you a drink.
- [124:37]
Johnny Dollar
Thanks, darling. Thanks, darling. Ha. You know, Dollar, sometimes I wonder which one of us is married to Daphne.
- [124:45]
Joe McNabb
That was a perfectly charming thing to say, Edward.
- [124:48]
Johnny Dollar
Yes, Father? You seem to be in unusually good form tonight. This is for the benefit of our guests, no doubt. Look, if I could just talk to you for a moment, Harvey. Oh, don't mind these little exchanges, Johnny. If you're around this place very long, you'll get used to them. Ah. Good night. Good night, Father. Mr. Stone.
- [125:06]
Joe McNabb
Like a drink now, Harvey?
- [125:09]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, never mind, Daphne. I can manage.
- [125:11]
Joe McNabb
All right. I'll go on up then. I hope we'll be seeing you again, Johnny.
- [125:15]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, you probably will. Good night. I'm sorry about that business with Father just now, Johnny. Most of the time he thinks it's fine that Daphne and I get on so well together, but sometimes he doesn't. I suppose now he's in the wheelchair, he feels the difference in their ages even more. Yeah, and ever since I've taken over the management of the corporation. Well, I'm sure he must have made it very clear he doesn't approve of my policies. And he's probably right. Oh, well, my heart's not in it really, but somebody had to take over. Look, Harvey, you said you knew why I was here. Oh, sure. About that silly business last evening. What exactly happened? Well, I have a new sports car that I'm fond of. I went for a drive. You know, there are some pretty good country roads around here. And I slowed for a sharp turn and I heard what I thought was a backfire, but my windshield shattered. It was a bullet. What'd you do then? I stopped to warn whoever it was to keep away from the roads. It didn't occur to you that somebody might be trying to kill you? Good Lord, no. Look, Johnny, I used to roam these woods when I was a kid, taking pot Shots at fence posts. That's obviously what happened last night. You didn't see anyone when you stopped? No. It was probably some kid. He's probably still running. And you can't think of anyone who might want to kill you? Of course not. How about Dutch Krieger? Krieger the gambler? I understand he was involved in a business deal you were thinking of making. You refused to go through with it until his associates dumped him, of course. After all, the name Stone does have a pretty honorable history. I couldn't very well have it connected with somebody like Krieger. Well, Dutch wouldn't forget a thing like that. Look, about your fiance, Helen Barrett, Johnny, I suggest you confine your questions to subjects not quite so personal. All right, so I sound nosy, but you're heavily insured, Harvey, and that bullet last night could have been meant for you. My job is to find out if there's anyone who could possibly have any reason to kill you. There isn't. Do you know of anyone who's opposed to your marriage? I told you, I'd rather not talk about that. Anyway, there's a good chance there isn't going to be any marriage. No. What do you mean? Look, Johnny, I have a good idea. It's almost time for the last train into the city. I'll drive you to the station. A polite but firm message that the interview was over. Javi got called to the phone and I went outside to wait for him. Daphne had lied when she told me Harvey's father opposed the marriage to nightclub singer Helen Barrett. It was Daphne who didn't like the idea. She and Harvey seemed pretty chummy, and the old man didn't seem to like that. Harvey had crossed a rough boy named Dutch Krieger in a business deal, and it's a cinch Dutch didn't like that. And now Harvey just told me there might not be a marriage, which indicated some kind of trouble there. All in all, it looked like a cozy little powder case. Then, as I started for Harvey's car, the keg exploded right in my stomach in the form of a fist. I couldn't see who they were, but the two of them really knew their business. The way they worked me over. Hard enough to hurt, not hard enough to put me out. Finally, I guess they got bored. One of them did me a favor. He put me away. Now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's episode of this week's story. Tomorrow? Well, look, you should never get in a card game with a professional gambler. He can deal you any card he wants. Even the ace of spades, the death card. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Robert Rife, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar, Joe Restelli at Homicide. Johnny, I was out when you called. Anything new on the Harvey Stone killing, Joe? Not a thing. But maybe we've already got all we need. Meaning Helen Barrett. We're still holding her, Joe. I don't think she did it. No? Oh, I know it all adds up to her, but. Well, just call it a hunch. Hunches are fine, Johnny, but facts are better. You want to hear some facts? I'll be right over tonight. And every weekday night, Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account, America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense accounts submitted by Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to the home office, Northeast Indemnity Associates, Hartford, Connecticut. Assignment, the imperfect alibi matter. Location, New York City expense account. Continue. Item 8. $1.40. Cab fare to police headquarters from my hotel to talk to Lieutenant Joe Rastelli. Sit down, Johnny. Thanks. Facts, you said facts. Number one, Harvey Stone was shot on the left side of the forehead at close range with a.38 caliber Smith and Wesson. The gun was near the body. Any prints on it? No, it was clean. But Helen Barrett had gloves with him. Helen says she left Harvey's apartment and went to her own to pack up. They were going to elope. When she got back to his apartment, he was dead. So she told me, Johnny. I'd like to believe her, too. She seems like a pretty nice kid, but. But what? Not enough facts in her favor. Who saw her leave Stone's apartment? We can't find anyone who did. What time did she leave? She can't remember. Did anyone see her return? What time? That's a lot of questions not to be able to answer, Johnny. Yeah, yeah, I know. What was the time of death? Medical examiner figures at somewhere between 11:30 and midnight. Well, Helen told me she thought it was about 11 when she left Harvey's apartment and about midnight when she returned. Yeah, about. Even if she did leave, she only lives a few blocks away. There's a lot of time unaccounted for it. Johnny. Yeah? Better fill me in on what you know. Well, as I get it, Harvey Stone took over the Management of his father's corporation when old EJ Took to a wheelchair about a year ago. Yeah, Yeah, I know. Two years ago, old E.J. married an ex chorus girl named Defendant. Yeah, yeah, well, she's about Harvey's age. The two of them were apparently pretty friendly, and the old man was bothered by it occasionally. Incidentally, he and Daphne are joint beneficiaries on Harvey's insurance policy, 150,000 worth. Sounds like you're trying to tie the old man into the killing. Be quite a stretch, Johnny, from his wheelchair up in Westchester county to Harvey's apartment on East 57. I know, but right now I'm more interested in Daphne. Oh, I told you last night I thought Dutch Krieger was mixed up in this. I went to his office afterward and spotted a picture of Daphne Stone on his wall. Inscription, all my love, Signed Daphne. You think Daphne got Dutch to do her and himself a favor, huh? That's a possibility, isn't it? Sure, sure, it's a possibility. Trouble is, there are all kinds of possibilities. Right now I gotta stick with a probability. Helen Barrett. Uh huh. How are you doing on motive for her? Not good, not bad. We know there was some question as to whether they were going to be married or not. Helen says the hesitation was on her part, but suppose it was the other way around. Harvey decided not to go through with the marriage. Yeah. Getting cut out of the Stone money would hurt some girls plenty. Maybe this was her way of getting even with them for breach of promise. You know, Joe, for a guy who loves facts, seems to me you're edging over into hunches too. I admit it isn't a closed case by a long shot. So let's get back to facts. Harvey was shot in the forehead with a.38 Smith & Wesson sometime between 11:30. Excuse me. Bastelli speaking. Who? What about? Oh, well, send him in. Somebody wants to see me about the killing. Oh, you Lieutenant Rustelli? That's right. Your hand on the Stone killing? Trying to. I want to talk to you about it. Sit down. Thank you. What's your name? Gentry. Alvin Gentry. So, what about the Stone killing? I killed Harvey Stone. Wow. What? Let's have that again. I said I killed Stone. I want to make a statement. Why did you kill him? I was making a play for my girl. I didn't like it. Your girl? You mean Helen Barrett? Who? Helen Barrett, Harvey Stone's fiance. No, I don't know her. I mean my girl Doris, a hatchet girl at Barney's. Oh, go on, go on. Stone was on the make for her. Every time he came in Barney's, he'd make a play for her. I told him to lay off and he wouldn't. He asked her to go away with him. I went to his apartment. I killed him. How'd you kill him? I shot him. Where? I told you, in his apartment. I mean, where did the bullet hit him? Oh, in the chest. What kind of gun do you use? 45 cold. What'd you do with a gun? I threw it in the river. Okay, Gentry, get out. What? I said get out. But I told you. Yeah, you told me, all right, Now I'm telling you. Get out. Look, I don't understand. I'll tell you what you do. You just go on out of here and think it over. When you. You come back with a few facts. Straight facts? Yeah, like the caliber of the gun and where Stone was shot and the location of the gun. You get the facts straight, and I'll be glad to listen to you. Now get out. Okay. Confessant Sam number one. Yeah, there's always a string of them. That's one reason we don't usually release the caliber of the gun to the papers. To help weed out these. Confessing Sam. Wonder why they do it? A psychiatrist was explaining it to me once. Something to do with repressed feelings of guilt, I think he said. Next one will probably say he stabbed Harvey Stone with a letter opener. Yeah, well, I'm gonna run out and have a talk with Daphne. Stelly speaking. What? Now, look, Mike, you take the statement, huh? Thanks. Well, I was wrong about the letter opener, Johnny. Oh? We got a guy now who claims he used a razor on Harvey. Slit his throat from ear to ear as I left. I spent about three minutes feeling sorry for Rastelli and his crank confessions. But then I dropped that routine and started feeling sorry for my own problems. The case against Helen Barrett looked pretty bad, but I still kept thinking of Daphne Stone's picture in Dutch Krieger's office. Expense account item 9320. Transportation to the Stone estate in Westchester County. I was shown into the king sized drawing room again to wait for Daphne. But then I saw a very interesting sight that wiped Daphne out of my mind for a moment. It was old EJ's wheelchair at the door to the solarium. And what was unusual about it was that it was empty. I edged toward the door. Then I got a glimpse of EJ puttering around his orchids. He spotted me, though, and hobbled quickly to his wheelchair. With an abrupt wave, he wheeled into the hall. And out of sight. A couple of minutes later, in came Daphne.
- [137:12]
Joe McNabb
Hello, Johnny. Daphne, look, you said it was important that you talk to me. But I really don't feel much like talking after what's happened. I'm sure you understand.
- [137:24]
Johnny Dollar
I think so. How's EJ Taking it?
- [137:28]
Joe McNabb
My husband is reacting as I suppose any father would who just lost his son, bewildered and hurt.
- [137:35]
Johnny Dollar
You didn't tell me EJ could navigate without his wheelchair. I saw him a minute ago inspecting his orchids. The wheelchair was parked near the door.
- [137:45]
Joe McNabb
I. I didn't think it was important. Johnny. It's true he can be out of his chair for short periods, but it's rather uncomfortable for him.
- [137:53]
Johnny Dollar
Out of his chair? For how long?
- [137:56]
Joe McNabb
Not long enough to get into New York and back, if that's what you're wondering.
- [138:00]
Johnny Dollar
Thanks. You told me it was EJ who was opposed to Harvey's plans to marry Helen Barrett. But I found out that you were the one who was fighting it.
- [138:10]
Joe McNabb
I suppose it was foolish of me to pretend otherwise. I guess I just didn't want you to get any wrong ideas.
- [138:16]
Johnny Dollar
About what?
- [138:17]
Joe McNabb
About the reason I opposed it.
- [138:19]
Johnny Dollar
What's the right idea?
- [138:21]
Joe McNabb
The name of Stone means something, Johnny. Dignity, tradition, breeding. I doubt if someone like Helen Barrett, an entertainer, nice as she is, could keep that tradition alive.
- [138:36]
Johnny Dollar
Are you kidding?
- [138:38]
Joe McNabb
I'm completely serious. Something like this happened once before with Harvey's secretary, Martha Winters, and you stopped it.
- [138:46]
Johnny Dollar
Just like you were trying to stop him from marrying Helen.
- [138:48]
Joe McNabb
I don't like the way you put that. I merely persuaded him to think of the family name.
- [138:54]
Johnny Dollar
You know, you kill me, Daphne.
- [138:56]
Joe McNabb
What do you mean by that?
- [138:57]
Johnny Dollar
This dose of blue blood you've picked up. Aren't you a Daphne Come lady yourself?
- [139:00]
Joe McNabb
How dare you.
- [139:01]
Johnny Dollar
Save it. EJ Told me he lifted you out of a chorus line when he married you. Now, how about it?
- [139:09]
Joe McNabb
Yes, it's true.
- [139:10]
Johnny Dollar
So where do you get off with this?
- [139:12]
Joe McNabb
Don't suppose you'd ever understand this, but there are chorus girls and chorus girls this.
- [139:19]
Johnny Dollar
I know.
- [139:20]
Joe McNabb
I had to support my mother somehow. But all the while I knew that life wasn't for me. And when I got a chance at this life, I took it. And since I married Edward, I've lived the way anyone with the name of Stone should live. I put my past behind me.
- [139:39]
Johnny Dollar
Even Dutch Krieger.
- [139:41]
Joe McNabb
Dutch?
- [139:41]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. Yeah, I saw your picture on his office wall.
- [139:46]
Joe McNabb
He was part of the past. It doesn't exist anymore.
- [139:49]
Johnny Dollar
Isn't it kind of a coincidence he tried to worm his way into one of Harvey's business deals.
- [139:55]
Joe McNabb
I had nothing to do with it. And Harvey acted correctly in refusing to have anything to do with Dutch.
- [140:01]
Johnny Dollar
I see. Then you opposed Harvey's marriage to Helen to protect the family name, huh?
- [140:07]
Joe McNabb
Just. Does I oppose the previous attachment to his secretary?
- [140:10]
Johnny Dollar
Sure. It wasn't because you didn't like the idea of competition?
- [140:16]
Joe McNabb
That's a. It's a pretty low thing to say under the circumstances.
- [140:21]
Johnny Dollar
Well, just what are the circumstances?
- [140:24]
Joe McNabb
It's. It's very simple. I've lost someone who was very dear to me, even though I was Harvey's stepmother. We were practically the same age. Sure, I know people talked about it, made crude jokes about it, but I didn't care because I found in Harvey something I'd never had in my life before.
- [140:48]
Johnny Dollar
Oh? What was that?
- [140:51]
Joe McNabb
A friend, Johnny. A real friend.
- [141:01]
Johnny Dollar
I went back into the city. If I could only find somebody to establish the time period Helen had been away from Harvey's place. I went over to her apartment house, figuring there's always one tenant who knows everybody else's business. Five doorbells later, I found the one.
- [141:17]
Joe McNabb
Sure, I had to come in late, but I don't remember just what time. I was watching a program on the tv. There was this old man and woman.
- [141:24]
Johnny Dollar
Yes? Yes. You're sure it was Helen Barrett who came in?
- [141:28]
Joe McNabb
Well, I ought to be sure. She lives right under me. Besides, he was waiting for her, and they had a talk. I couldn't quite hear what they were saying. She kept telling him to quiet down. Well, I mean, I. Well, I wasn't really paying any attention. It was.
- [141:41]
Johnny Dollar
No, no, of course not. You said he was waiting for her. Who do you mean? Friend of hers.
- [141:46]
Joe McNabb
At least he used to be. She used to go with him.
- [141:49]
Johnny Dollar
Happen to remember his name?
- [141:51]
Joe McNabb
Sure. Gentry. Alvin Gentry.
- [141:56]
Johnny Dollar
Alvin Gentry. It was Alvin Gentry who'd made the fake confession in Rastelli's office. At the time, there'd been nothing to tie him into the case. But now, according to Mrs. Carson, he was a friend of Helen's. My hunch about her innocence took a nosedive. Yeah. That confession he tried to make could be his way of trying to protect her. And that would add up to just one thing. Helen was guilty after all. Now here's our star to tell you about tomorrow's episode of this week's story. Tomorrow. Up pops an eyewitness and drives the final nail into the wrong coffin. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Robert Reif it is Produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar. Joe Rastelli at Homicide returning your call, Johnny. I've uncovered a couple of items on the Harvey Stone killing, Joe. Good. Let's have him. Remember Alvin Gentry, the crank who made the fake confession in my office yesterday? Yeah, what about him? Looks like he's not a psycho after all. What do you mean? I just found out he's a friend of Helen Barrett's. Well, what do you know? Could be he was doing it to shield her. That sure doesn't look good for her, Johnny. Yeah, I gotta admit, my hunch about her innocence just took a nosedive. I also learned that Harvey's secretary, Martha Winters, used to be his girlfriend. Yeah, I'm up to date on that one. Matter of fact, Martha's in my office right now. Oh? Says she wants to make a statement. You want to hear it? You'll bet I do. Tonight and every weekday night, Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator, yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense accounts submitted by Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to the home office, Northeast Indemnity Associates, Hartford, Connecticut. Assignment, the imperfect alibi Matter location, New York City. Expense account, continued item 10, a $40 cab from my hotel to police headquarters. Martha Winters, secretary to the murdered man, Harvey Stone, was in Lieutenant Joe Roastelli's office. She was a blonde. And again, I had to admire the dead man's taste. He could really pick them. Ms. Windows, would you mind telling Mr. Dollar here what you've just told me?
- [145:31]
Joe McNabb
No, not at all, lieutenant. You see, Mr. Dollar, I have a small apartment in the same building as.
- [145:36]
Johnny Dollar
Mr. Stone's apartment on East 57.
- [145:38]
Joe McNabb
Yes, Harvey, as Mr. Stone transacted most of the business at his apartment rather than the office when he was in town, that's mainly why he kept the apartment. And we felt it would be more convenient for me to be in nearby.
- [145:50]
Johnny Dollar
I see.
- [145:51]
Joe McNabb
Well, the night before last.
- [145:53]
Johnny Dollar
The night of the murder.
- [145:54]
Joe McNabb
Yes. I'd been out to a show. I got home about 11:30.
- [145:58]
Johnny Dollar
Go on.
- [145:59]
Joe McNabb
I saw Helen Barrett walking toward Mr. Stone's apartment.
- [146:03]
Johnny Dollar
What? You sure about the time?
- [146:06]
Joe McNabb
Well, not right down to the second, of course, but I am positive it was within five minutes of 11:30.
- [146:11]
Johnny Dollar
I see. Well, why did you wait until this morning to tell us this?
- [146:16]
Joe McNabb
Well, I.
- [146:17]
Johnny Dollar
Come on, let's have it, Ms. Winters.
- [146:19]
Joe McNabb
Well, naturally, no One likes to get mixed up in things like this. I didn't want to make trouble for anybody. Ellen Barrett always seemed like a nice person. But Mr. Stone was my employer and my friend. After thinking it over, I could see what my duty was.
- [146:37]
Johnny Dollar
You say Harvey Stone was your friend. Was he anything more than that?
- [146:42]
Joe McNabb
I don't think I know what you mean, Mr. Dollar.
- [146:45]
Johnny Dollar
I think you do. I understand that at one time you and Harvey were planning to be married.
- [146:52]
Joe McNabb
That's true. But that's all in the past.
- [146:55]
Johnny Dollar
Oh?
- [146:56]
Joe McNabb
Yes. We decided mutually that it was a mistake. We've been friends ever since. But nothing more than that.
- [147:03]
Johnny Dollar
I see. Well. Heard enough, Johnny? Yeah. Okay, Ms. Winters, that'll be all. Thanks for coming in. We'll get in touch with you again if we need any further information.
- [147:13]
Joe McNabb
All right. Any time, Lieutenant.
- [147:18]
Johnny Dollar
Well, Johnny, according to Martha Winter's statement, Helen Barrett was in Harvey's apartment at the approximate time of the murder. We know it was somewhere between 11:30 and midnight. Helen said she left Harvey's apartment around 11 to go home and pack. They were going to elope. When he didn't come for her, she got worried. She went back to his apartment around midnight, found him dead. But that story won't hold water if Martha's telling the truth. Yeah, if. You don't sound convinced. Are you, Joe? I don't know, Johnny. I don't know. It's a pretty nauseating shortage of facts in this case. Nauseating is the word for it, all right. I mean, literally, when I get one like this, my stomach starts acting up. Joe, what have we got in the way of facts? Well, number one, Harvey Stone was shot in the forehead with a.38 Smith & Wesson sometime between 11:30 and midnight. Yeah, and even that fact got twisted around yesterday by Alvin Gentry when he made what he called a confession. He said he shot Stone in the chest with a Colt.45 and threw the gun in the river. Yeah. You told me you'd found out he was a friend of Helen's. His confession doesn't look good for her. Believe me, I know. But I can't seem to lose my hunch that she's innocent. Look, Johnny, I don't blame you for trying. It's your job. What do you mean? Harvey Stone was insured for 150,000 bucks by the company you represent. Yeah, that's right. Okay. As father, E.J. stone and his young stepmother, Daphne, are the joint beneficiaries. Now, if one of them should turn out to be the murderer, your company wouldn't have to pay off. Wait a minute, Joe. Wait a minute. I think you know me well enough to figure I'd a lot rather see that company pay through the nose than convict an innocent person. Sure, but just about everything we've got points to Helen Barrett. Just about, but not quite. For instance? For instance, Harvey's father, E.J. stone. He thought Harvey was running the business into the ground. He didn't like it. He also didn't like the fact that Harvey and his stepmother were pretty friendly. Man in a wheelchair is liable to resent a lot of things. Yeah, that's just the point. EJ can get out of his wheelchair when he wants to. I saw him out of it yesterday. Sure, then there's Daphne herself. She opposed the idea of Harvey marrying Helen. Said she wanted to protect the Stone name. But that sounds pretty fishy coming from somebody who used to be a chorus girl herself. Did you ask her about that picture of her you spotted in Dutch Krieger's office? Yeah. She said that was all in the past. But I wonder. Dutch got kicked out of a business deal by Harvey. He wouldn't forget that. And he's a tough cookie. And there still could be a connection between him and Daphne. Here we go again. Could be. Okay, okay. So I guess what it all adds up to is just that I kind of got myself sold on Helen. Sure, I've been sold on people, too. Sometimes it's ended up costing me. So now I just hold back and don't make up my mind one way or another. All right. It's turned out to be a pretty good idea, too. Why don't you try it, Johnny? Expense account, item 11. A double martini for me. While I thought over what Joe Restelli had said. Sure, it was good advice not to get too sold on people. But it didn't help me much at the moment. I still couldn't believe Helen Barrett had killed Harvey Stone. But I had to admit that if she wasn't the killer, it left a lot of things unexplained. For one thing, Alvin Gentry's fake confession. It sure looked like he was trying to shield her. I checked and learned that he managed a supper club where Helen used to sing. I decided to have a talk with him. I found him at a corner table. Yeah? I'm Johnny Dollar. Gentry. We. We met in Lieutenant Rastelli office. Yeah, I'd like to talk to you. What about? About the Harvey Stone killing. There's nothing to talk about. I don't agree. I think there is. I made my confession. You guys didn't believe me. Well, now, that's because you got a few of the things wrong, Gentry. What interests me now is not your confession, but the reason you made it. What do you mean? Well, you said Harvey Stone had been making a play for your girl. A hatchet girl, wasn't it? You. You said that's why you killed him. So? So you said you didn't know Helen Barrett. I don't. But you're lying. Look, darling, we found out you're a friend of Helen's. You used to go with her. And you were waiting in her apartment the night of the murder when she left Harvey's and came home to pack. Well, how about it, Gentry? Okay, so I do know Helen. But she didn't kill Stone. How do you know? She couldn't have. She's not that kind. Oh, sure. You were waiting in her apartment that night. Why? I wanted to see her. What about? She used to sing here. She drew good crowds. I wanted her back. What kind of a mood was she in when she got to her apartment? What do you mean? Well, did she talk about Harvey Stone any? Did. Did she seem mad or upset? I don't remember. Cut it out, Jean Free. I want straight answers. Well, I guess they had a little argument. What about? I don't know. Anyway, it doesn't matter. Helen didn't kill Stone. She was. She was with me. You mean for a few minutes at her apartment. I mean longer than a few minutes. She was with me at the time of the killing. Now, look, Gentry, I know you're trying to help Helen, but believe me, this isn't helping her. First you make a phony confession, and now all of a sudden you're giving her an alibi. Sure, it was stupid of me to make that confession. You can say that again. But I realized later it wasn't necessary. I realized that Helen had been with me at the time of the killing. You're going to stick to that story? Sure I am. Under oath? Under oath. Perjury is a pretty serious thing, Gentry. Perjury is pretty hard to prove. $1 thing seemed pretty clear. Alvin Gentry was apparently convinced that Helen had killed Harvey Stone. He was doing everything he could think of, even perjuring himself to shield her. And the more he scrambled, the worse he began to look for her. Then, too, there was the statement of Martha Winters, Harvey's secretary, that she'd seen Helen returning to his apartment at 11:30. That would put Helen back there during the time of the murder. I still wasn't completely convinced that Martha Winters was telling the Truth. So I spent the rest of the afternoon checking on her to see what I could find out. And a couple of things I found out were pretty interesting. So interesting that I decided to try to run a little bluff on her.
- [153:47]
Joe McNabb
Oh, Mr. Dollar.
- [153:49]
Johnny Dollar
Hello, Martha. I'd like to talk to you.
- [153:52]
Joe McNabb
Well, I. I was just on my way out.
- [153:53]
Johnny Dollar
Well, this won't take long.
- [153:56]
Joe McNabb
All right. Please come in.
- [153:58]
Johnny Dollar
Thanks. Well, it's about that statement you made to Lieutenant Rastelli this morning.
- [154:07]
Joe McNabb
Oh. Well, I really haven't anything more to add to it, Mr. Dollar. Look, I'm sorry, but I have an engagement.
- [154:12]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah, you told us this morning that you and Harvey Stone used to go together, but you called it off and were just friends after that.
- [154:21]
Joe McNabb
Yes, that's right. Now, look, Mr. Dollar.
- [154:24]
Johnny Dollar
But that isn't the story I picked up at the office of the Stone Corporation a while ago, Martha.
- [154:28]
Joe McNabb
The office? Now, what right have you to go snooping around that office?
- [154:31]
Johnny Dollar
Sorry, Martha, but snooping's my business. And you know, you pick up a lot of interesting information that way.
- [154:35]
Joe McNabb
Well, if you're going to listen to all inst.
- [154:37]
Johnny Dollar
I found out it was Harvey who called off the deal with you.
- [154:40]
Joe McNabb
No.
- [154:40]
Johnny Dollar
And you've been carrying a torch for him ever since. There've been a couple of nasty scenes about it.
- [154:44]
Joe McNabb
That's a lie.
- [154:45]
Johnny Dollar
Matter of fact, once or twice he'd almost made up his mind to can you. But each time he decided.
- [154:49]
Joe McNabb
Lies, lies, all of it.
- [154:50]
Johnny Dollar
Okay, okay, we'll let that go for a minute. How about your statement this morning, Mr. Dollar?
- [154:57]
Joe McNabb
I haven't time to stand here and repeat what I've already said.
- [155:00]
Johnny Dollar
That's where you're wrong. Martha, you've got time to hear this. You'll take time.
- [155:06]
Joe McNabb
Well, what is it?
- [155:07]
Johnny Dollar
You said you saw Helen heading for Harvey's apartment at 11:30.
- [155:11]
Joe McNabb
Yes, I did.
- [155:13]
Johnny Dollar
Where were you at the time? Why, here, in your apartment. Here? But your apartment's around the corner of the hall from Harvey's. How could you have seen her from here?
- [155:24]
Joe McNabb
Well, I didn't mean I was in my apartment. I was at the entrance, just coming.
- [155:28]
Johnny Dollar
In the front entrance. Yes, but Helen came in the side entrance. You couldn't have seen her from the front.
- [155:33]
Joe McNabb
Well, she's lying. Anyway, I hadn't reached the front entrance yet. I was outside.
- [155:37]
Johnny Dollar
Sorry, Martha. The doorman and the cop on the beat both would have seen Helen. You lied, didn't you? No. You didn't see her at all? I.
- [155:44]
Joe McNabb
Well, it had to be Helen. She's the one who killed him. I know she did.
- [155:46]
Johnny Dollar
You lied, didn't you, Martha?
- [155:47]
Joe McNabb
If it hadn't been for her.
- [155:48]
Johnny Dollar
If it weren't for her, Maybe you'd be Mrs. Harvey Stone, huh?
- [155:51]
Joe McNabb
I didn't mean that. I. I meant Harvey'd still be alive. I. I just didn't want her to.
- [155:56]
Johnny Dollar
Get away with it. You lied, Martha. You didn't see Helen at all.
- [156:01]
Joe McNabb
Yes, I lied, Mr. Do. I lied?
- [156:11]
Johnny Dollar
Yeah. My bluff about the doorman, the cop on the beat and Helen coming in the side entrance had paid off. Looking at Martha, I didn't exactly feel like giving three cheers about it. But one thing was clear, though. The Harvey Stone murder case had just busted wide open again. Now here's our star to tell you about the final episode of this week's story Tomorrow, the wind up a gambler stakes his life on his hand and loses. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Robert Reif, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Be sure to join us tomorrow night, same time and station, for the next exciting episode of Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking from Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Dollar, Joe Rastelli at Homicide. Johnny. Glad you called, Joe. Got something new for you on the Harvey Stone murder case. Now. Well, let's have it. Yesterday, Harvey's secretary, Martha Winters, told us she'd seen Helen Barrett approaching his apartment at just about the time he was murdered. Yeah, she just admitted to me that she lied. She wasn't in position to have seen anyone approaching the apartment at the time. Well, that maybe opens things up a little again. Yeah, I've got an item along that line too, Johnny. What is it? Harvey's young stepmother, Daphne, up in Westchester County. Oh, what about her? I just found out she was here in the city the night of Harvey's murder. What? Yeah, tonight and every weekday night. Bob Bailey and the transcribed adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator, yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense accounts submitted by special investigator Johnny Dollar to the home office, Northeast Indemnity Associates, Hartford, Connecticut. Assignment, the imperfect alibi. Matter. Location, New York City. Expense account concluded. Item 13. 320. Transportation to the Stone estate in Westchester county to question Harvey's young stepmother, Daphne Stone, as a suspect in Harvey's killing. Daphne was very much alive again.
- [159:17]
Joe McNabb
Sit down, Johnny.
- [159:19]
Johnny Dollar
Thanks. Nice out here.
- [159:23]
Joe McNabb
Mm. Drink?
- [159:24]
Johnny Dollar
No, thanks.
- [159:26]
Joe McNabb
How's the investigation going?
- [159:29]
Johnny Dollar
Well, that's what I came to talk about. Daphne. It hasn't been going too well.
- [159:33]
Joe McNabb
Oh, I was under the impression that an arrest had been made.
- [159:37]
Johnny Dollar
Helen Barrett's being held. Well, then Helen Barrett could be the killer. A lot of things point in her direction, but there are a few that don't.
- [159:47]
Joe McNabb
What do you mean?
- [159:48]
Johnny Dollar
Right from the start, you've been giving me incomplete answers. Or false answers. First you told me it was Harvey's father, E.J. who opposed his plans to marry Helen. Then I found out you were the one who was fighting it.
- [159:59]
Joe McNabb
Look, I explained all that. It's because I didn't want you to get the wrong idea.
- [160:04]
Johnny Dollar
Oh, yeah? Yeah, so you said. You told me you opposed it because you didn't think the Stone name should go to a supper. Club singer like Helen. Yes, but you yourself used to be a chorus girl.
- [160:13]
Joe McNabb
I explained that to you too, Johnny.
- [160:15]
Johnny Dollar
Okay, so you oppose the marriage for the dignity of the family and not just keep Harvey at home with you.
- [160:20]
Joe McNabb
That's a vicious thing to say. I told you, Harvey and I, being about the same age, were very good friends. True friends.
- [160:27]
Johnny Dollar
Is that what your husband thought?
- [160:29]
Joe McNabb
You forget Harvey's father is confined to a wheelchair. Understandably, he might occasionally resent those who can be more active.
- [160:36]
Johnny Dollar
That's another thing you didn't tell me, Daphne. That EJ could get out of his wheelchair on occasion. I caught a glimpse of him out of it the last time I was here.
- [160:44]
Joe McNabb
Short periods only and with considerable discomfort.
- [160:48]
Johnny Dollar
So you and Harvey were friends. Like you and that gambler Dutch Krieger, huh?
- [160:52]
Joe McNabb
Donny, my patience is running out. I explained that Dutch was in the past. Completely in the past, before my marriage.
- [161:01]
Johnny Dollar
But Dutch got kicked out of a business deal by Harvey, and he wouldn't like a thing like that.
- [161:05]
Joe McNabb
Harvey acted perfectly properly. Really, Johnny?
- [161:09]
Johnny Dollar
Aye. Just one more thing.
- [161:11]
Joe McNabb
Well, what is it?
- [161:12]
Johnny Dollar
One thing more. You didn't tell me that you were in the city the night Harvey was murdered there. Well.
- [161:23]
Joe McNabb
I should have told you that, Johnny. I went into the city that evening because I knew Harvey was to have a meeting with Helen later that night. I wanted to talk to Harvey first.
- [161:34]
Johnny Dollar
What about?
- [161:36]
Joe McNabb
I knew he was planning some definite action about.
- [161:39]
Johnny Dollar
So you wanted to talk him out of marrying her.
- [161:42]
Joe McNabb
If you want to put it like that, yes.
- [161:44]
Johnny Dollar
What time was that?
- [161:45]
Joe McNabb
I saw him in his apartment about 9. I left before 10.
- [161:49]
Johnny Dollar
Can anybody verify those times?
- [161:51]
Joe McNabb
I don't know.
- [161:52]
Johnny Dollar
I see. What was the outcome of your talk with Harvey?
- [161:56]
Joe McNabb
He assured me he'd break off with Helen.
- [161:58]
Johnny Dollar
You sure about that?
- [162:00]
Joe McNabb
Completely sure. I decided to stay at a hotel that night instead of coming back home. I suppose that's how the police knew I was in the city.
- [162:09]
Johnny Dollar
It's Helen's story that when she saw Harvey later, they decided to elope.
- [162:15]
Joe McNabb
If I believed that. But I don't. I think she's lying.
- [162:22]
Johnny Dollar
And how about you, Daphne? Have you given me the whole truth now?
- [162:27]
Joe McNabb
Yes, Johnny, the whole truth. Everything I've done has been done solely to protect the family name. Everything.
- [162:41]
Johnny Dollar
Right. Then I'd have given a lot to know just what that everything involved whether or not it also included some weird idea of killing Harvey to somehow protect the family name. Expense account. Item 14, 320. Transportation back to the city. I got permission from Joe Rastelli to talk to Helen Barrett. When they brought her into the interrogation room, she looked pale and tired.
- [163:08]
Joe McNabb
Hello, Johnny.
- [163:09]
Johnny Dollar
Helen. Several things I want to ask you about. Sit down.
- [163:13]
Joe McNabb
Sure. What?
- [163:16]
Johnny Dollar
Martha Winters for one.
- [163:18]
Joe McNabb
Harvey secretary. What about her?
- [163:20]
Johnny Dollar
Well, she made a statement that she'd seen you heading for Harvey's apartment around 11:30. That had put you inside there during the time of the murder.
- [163:27]
Joe McNabb
No, no, I'm sure it was later than that. Almost 12 when I got back there.
- [163:31]
Johnny Dollar
Martha later admitted that she lied, but the question is, why? Still carrying the torch for Harvey?
- [163:38]
Joe McNabb
Yes, I guess she was.
- [163:40]
Johnny Dollar
Next item is about Alvin Jeffrey.
- [163:42]
Joe McNabb
Lieutenant Rastelli told me about that confession Alvin made.
- [163:45]
Johnny Dollar
He got all the details wrong caliber, the gun.
- [163:47]
Joe McNabb
Poor Alvin.
- [163:48]
Johnny Dollar
What do you mean?
- [163:49]
Joe McNabb
Well, he'd always made it clear how he felt about me, but I didn't think he'd go that far.
- [163:54]
Johnny Dollar
How do you feel about him?
- [163:55]
Joe McNabb
I've always liked him very much. Used to go with him some. But I stopped when I started seeing Harvey.
- [164:01]
Johnny Dollar
Did you talk to Alvin long at your apartment that night?
- [164:04]
Joe McNabb
No, just a few minutes while I was packing.
- [164:08]
Johnny Dollar
You know, you just talked yourself out of an alibi.
- [164:11]
Joe McNabb
What do you mean?
- [164:12]
Johnny Dollar
Well, after Gentry's confession didn't sell, he was willing to swear you were with him during the entire period the murder could have taken place.
- [164:21]
Joe McNabb
Johnny, why does an innocent person need an alibi?
- [164:25]
Johnny Dollar
It helps in courts, believe me. Well, how'd you make out with Daphne and Helen, Johnny? Joe, remind me never to get involved with show people again. They make their living putting on an act, and I'm just country boy enough not to be able to tell a difference once in a while. They both gave you nice straight stories, huh? Oh, yeah, sure. Real sincere. Look me right in the eye. Both of them. But one of them was lying, huh? Daphne said Harvey told her he'd break off with Helen. But Helen says the two of them were planning to elope. Of course, Harvey might have changed his mind after talking to Daphne. Yeah, but that's something we're not going to be able to confirm now. No, Johnny, it's a cinch. Alvin Gentry's convinced that Helen's guilty. I think he's holding back something. Guy doesn't stick his neck out that far without a reason. I know, but I still don't dig her motive. Well, suppose Daphne's telling the truth, that Harvey broke up with Helen. Maybe she couldn't stand getting the brush off. Yeah, could be. All right. People can do some strange things under the name of love, Johnny, particularly when it turns to hate. And that can happen awful fast. Expenses items 15 and 16. $1.40 cab to my hotel, and $1 even for a pot of coffee in my room. 1 hour, 3 cups of coffee and half a dozen cigarettes later, I was still nowhere. I was beat. And then a weird little idea began pecking away at me. A couple of things Rastelli had said suddenly started adding up to a pretty fantastic answer. Maybe it wouldn't stand the light of day. But it was night now, and it was the only idea I could come up with. I decided to try it on for size. I went to the club. Alvin Gentry managed. Oh, hello, $. I was sort of hoping you'd be around again. Oh, yeah. I want to talk to you, but not now. It's almost closing time. Stick around, will you? I waited at the bar while the customers left. Twenty minutes later, Gentry and I were alone. He slid onto a stool beside me. Drink? No, no, thanks. What's on your mind, Gentry? Well, I've been thinking about what you said the last time we talked about perjury. Huh? I decided you were right. $. They make it pretty tough on you for perjury. Yeah, they do. I'm withdrawing my statement that Helen was with me at the time of the murder. Well, that's probably the smart thing to do, Gentry. What's the use? I'm getting tired of being a sucker in this deal, a fall guy. Oh, that goofed up confession I made was bad enough. Then I had to stick my neck out still further with that fake alibi for her. And for what? So you're withdrawing the statement, huh? Yeah. That's probably what you came to see me about, huh? No. Well, that isn't why I came to see it all, Gentry. And I wouldn't exactly call you a sucker. I think you're one of the smartest guys I've ever seen. In a sort of weird and twisted kind of way. What are you talking about? You played this whole deal Ryokaygi, right from the start. Everything you did was supposed to look like a cover for Helen, but instead of that, you were really trying to put a noose around her neck. You're out of your mind, Dolly. And that confession you made, Gentry. That's why I came to see you. To tell you it wasn't goofed up at all. You did kill Harvey Stone. You know, you got a real weird sense of humor. Have I? A couple of things Lt. Rastelli said added up in my mind a few minutes ago. Love can turn to hate fast. And you'd have to have a good reason to do what you did. You wanted Helen bad. When she told you that night she was going to marry Harvey Stone, you couldn't stand the idea. If you couldn't have her, nobody could. You're talking crazy. You went to Harvey's apartment and killed him. Then you made that fake confession to look like you were shielding her. Actually, you were framing her. No. You knew we wouldn't believe you. And we wouldn't believe that alibi you offered for her. It all made her look more guilty by the moment. Dolly, you're forcing me to say something I didn't want to. Oh. What is it? Helen was mad at Harvey that night. I was worried. I followed her back to his apartment. When I got there, she was standing over the body with a gun in her hand. She said, why did I do it? She kept saying it over and over. That's why I made the fake confession, to protect her. Sorry, Gentry. It's a little too late for that story now. I keep telling you, that confession you made was legitimate. Are you crazy? I didn't even get the caliber of the gun right. Yes, you did. What are you talking about? We made a mistake. Harvey was killed with a.45 Colt, just like you said. You're crazy. It was a.38 Smith. Yeah, a.38 Smith and Wesson. I know that. So do the police. So does the killer, but nobody else. Yep, it was in the papers. No, Gentry. It wasn't in the papers. You're dead wrong, $. Dead wrong. He kicked a bar stool at me, and I dove behind the end of the bar. The lights went off. I had my gun out now, but I couldn't see anything in the dark. He couldn't get past me to the front door, but he could get out of the back. I had to locate him fast. Then my hand touched an ashtray at the end of the bar. I picked it up and tossed it toward the center of the room. I spotted the flash of his gun. Now I had him pegged. I found a lamp on one of the tables. Gentry was slumped in a corner. My shoulder. Help me. Don't worry, Gentry, you're not going to conk out. There's plenty left of you to stand trial. Final item on expense account $12.80 transportation and incidentals back home. Total expenses $192.40. Arrived in response to my and had Gentry carted away. Helen Barrett was released from custody. Remarks here I thought Dutch Krieger was the gambler in the case, but the little game of winner take all that Gentry had been playing was just about the weirdest I'd ever heard of. I thought about him up there in the death house at Sing Sing and realized that the big trouble with that kind of gamble that he was taking is that the loser seat can get awfully hot. Yours, Jolene Johnny Dollar. Now here's our star to tell you about next week's story. Next week, one of the biggest, toughest, loudest characters I've ever met. A real two fisted terror and her name is Meg McCarthy. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey is transcribed in Hollywood. Written by Robert Reif, it is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Heard in our cast were Virginia Gregg, Tony Barrett, Shirley Mitchell, Will Wright, Chet Stratton, Teddy Corcia, Barney Phillips, Lillian Byeff and Harry Bartell. Musical supervision by Amerigo Marino. Be sure to join us on Monday night, same time and station for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Roy Rowan speaking. We just heard Bob Bailey as Johnny Dollar in the almost whole stories of the Salt City Matter, the Lonely Hearts Matter, the Imperfect Alibi matter. That will do it for this week's show. Thanks so much for joining me. I also want to thank you for your patience. I know over the last few months the schedule's been off, to say the least, but I'm hoping that finally things are evening out. Some family stuff has been sorted out and I'll be able to get back on a more regular schedule. Speaking of schedules, it's hard to believe that we're heading into the holidays. Next Sunday will be our annual Christmas special and I'll have some more holiday goodies spread out before the end of the year. In the meantime, you can check out Stars on Suspense, my other old time radio podcast. And if you like what you're hearing and you'd like to lend support to the shows you can visit. Buy me a coffee next time. Some old time radio seasonal sleuthing. Until then, good night and happy listening. 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. Refuse 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.