Episode 611 - All Saint’s Day (The Saint)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "All Saint’s Day (The Saint)" – Episode 611 of Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)

Podcast Information:

• Title: Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)
• Host/Author: Mean Streets Podcasts
• Episode: Episode 611 - All Saint’s Day (The Saint)
• Release Date: January 12, 2025

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Overview

In Episode 611 of Down These Mean Streets, titled "All Saint’s Day (The Saint)", listeners are immersed in the thrilling adventures of Simon Templar, famously known as The Saint. Portrayed by the legendary Vincent Price, this episode delves into a suspense-filled narrative set in the small western town of Headstone, New Mexico. As The Saint, Simon Templar navigates a labyrinth of deceit, murder, and hidden treasures, embodying the quintessential detective spirit of the Golden Age of Radio.

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Plot Summary

Arrival in Headstone

The episode opens with Simon Templar, The Saint, making an unexpected visit to Headstone, a once-thriving silver mining town now dwindled in prosperity. His arrival is marked by curiosity and suspicion among the town's residents. Simon's mission is initially unclear, but it soon becomes evident that his presence is connected to a series of recent violent incidents.

Notable Quote:

• Vincent Price as Simon Templar [00:54]: "Hello and welcome to Down These Mean Streets and more detectives and crime solvers from the golden age of radio."

Meeting Betty Connolly

Simon quickly befriends Betty Connolly, the daughter of the late Silver Slim Connolly, the former owner of the Betty Mine. Betty seeks Simon's help after surviving two assassination attempts, suspecting foul play connected to her inheritance—the now seemingly worthless silver mine.

Notable Quote:

• Betty Connolly [14:16]: "I've been shot at twice. And everybody here has been very unfriendly except Ziggy and a man named Harry Kelly."

Investigation of the Betty Mine

Determined to uncover the truth, Simon investigates the Betty Mine, which Betty claims holds no significant value. However, his keen detective skills lead him to discover that the mine is actually rich in cinnabar, a valuable mineral used to produce mercury. This revelation explains the motive behind the attempts on Betty's life and the town's hostility toward her.

Notable Quote:

• Simon Templar [27:25]: "Red sulfide is also cinnabar ore, from which we get mercury. And that is pretty valuable."

Confrontation with Mike McCarthy

Simon confronts Mike McCarthy, an Eastern gangster involved in exploiting the mine's resources. The encounter escalates quickly, leading to McCarthy's sudden demise—suspected to be a DIPlomatic move by Simon to eliminate the threat. This act further solidifies Simon's reputation as The Saint, a modern-day Robin Hood fighting against corruption and greed.

Notable Quote:

• Mike McCarthy [15:22]: "Well, what you find here must hold considerable weight for such a little bird to be making so much of a fuss."

Resolution of the Murders

Through meticulous investigation and strategic confrontations, Simon uncovers the intricate web of deceit surrounding the Betty Mine. He reveals that Chester, the town’s butler, was unwittingly complicit in the crimes orchestrated by McCarthy and others seeking to exploit the mine's true value. Simon ensures that justice is served by exposing the culprits, restoring peace to Headstone, and safeguarding Betty's rightful inheritance.

Notable Quote:

• Simon Templar [55:29]: "And from what I hear from the boy, she was the all-time tomato. You hear?"

Final Reveals and Departure

As the dust settles, Simon prepares to leave Headstone, having successfully navigated through danger and moral dilemmas. His departure is marked by a promise to return if needed, embodying the timeless allure of The Saint as a protector and avenger against wrongdoing.

Notable Quote:

• Simon Templar [73:01]: "Let's start with this stuff on the desk. What a fascinating title. My Heart's One Romance by Helen Trapp."

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Notable Quotes

1. Introduction to The Saint:

   • Vincent Price as Simon Templar [00:54]: "This week we're celebrating the anniversary of the Saint's American radio debut... Vincent Price remains the radio saint supreme."

2. Revelation of the Mine’s True Value:

   • Simon Templar [27:25]: "Red sulfide is also cinnabar ore, from which we get mercury. And that is pretty valuable."

3. Confrontation with McCarthy:

   • Simon Templar [55:29]: "That was the jackpot, Mike. She was trying to get at the real treasure buried deep within the mine."

4. Final Exposition:

   • Vincent Price as Simon Templar [85:03]: "You have been listening to another adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime..."

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Themes and Insights

1. The Illusion of Worth:

• The Betty Mine serves as a metaphor for hidden value beneath superficial appearances. Initially deemed worthless, its true worth lies in cinnabar, symbolizing how things (and people) often possess deeper significance that isn't immediately apparent.

2. Justice and Vigilantism:

• Simon Templar's role as The Saint encapsulates the theme of taking justice into one's own hands. While he operates outside traditional legal frameworks, his actions aim to rectify injustices and protect the innocent.

3. Corruption and Greed:

• The antagonists in the episode are driven by greed, exploiting Headstone's decline for personal gain. This highlights the destructive nature of corruption and its impact on communities.

4. Identity and Deception:

• Characters like Chester and Mike McCarthy embody deception, masking their true intentions behind facades. Simon's ability to see through these disguises underscores the importance of discernment in uncovering truth.

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Conclusion

"All Saint’s Day (The Saint)" masterfully showcases Vincent Price's portrayal of Simon Templar, blending classic detective storytelling with engaging character dynamics and moral contemplation. The episode not only entertains with its intricate plot and suspenseful confrontations but also prompts listeners to reflect on themes of hidden worth, justice, and the perils of corruption. As The Saint departs Headstone, he leaves behind a town vindicated and a narrative rich with the timeless appeal of the Golden Age of Radio detectives.

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Credits:

• Script Writers: Michael Cramway, Jerome Epstein, Lewis Vitis
• Cast: Vincent Price (The Saint), Harry Bartel, Barney Phillips, Colleen Collins, Fred Howard, Tony Barrett, Francis Robinson, Arthur Q. Bryan, Ted von Eltz, Donald Woods, Larry Dobkin, Mary Ship, Ted Osborne, and more.
• Music: Composed and conducted by Harry Zimmerman and Von Dexter
• Production: James L. Safier Agency, directed by Thomas A. Mcavidy and Helen Mack

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For those who haven't listened to this episode, "All Saint’s Day (The Saint)" offers a captivating dive into a world of mystery and heroism, perfectly encapsulated by Vincent Price's iconic voice acting. Whether you're a long-time fan of Old Time Radio detectives or new to the genre, this episode promises an engaging and enriching experience.

Transcript

[Vincent Price]

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.

[Podcast Host]

Hello and welcome to down these Mean Streets and more detectives and crime solvers from the golden age of radio. This week we're observing a feast day for a saint. But not just any saint. He's Simon Templer, the Robin Hood of modern crime. Created by Leslie Charteris and whose adventures are the stuff of books, TV shows, movies and old time radio shows. The Saint has been played by many actors over the years. On screen the character is probably most associated with Roger Moore, who starred as the debonair detective and adventurer on TV before he filled Agent 007's shoulder holster on the big screen. But on radio, the Saint is synonymous with Vincent Price. Before he became a legend of screen horror, Price played the suave Saint on the Air from 1947 until 1951. Other actors played him on radio, including Brian Ahern, Edgar Barrier and Tom Conway. But Price remains the radio saint supreme. And this week we're celebrating the anniversary of the Saints American radio debut. Back in January of 1945 with a quartet of his radio adventures, each starring Vincent Price as the Saint. Up first is the Saint Goes Underground, an episode also known as the Connolly Silver Mine. Originally aired on Mutual on July 31, 1949. While on a layover on a cross country flight, the Saint finds himself in a small western town and finds a young woman in need of his help. Then it's the problem of the peculiar payoff. Originally aired on NBC on July 9, 1950. The Saint discovers someone's been using his name to coerce victims of a blackmail scheme. This one features a fun performance from Arthur Q. Bryan as a thug with a very cheery disposition. Old time radio fans will recognize Brian as Doc Gamble from Fibbermagee and Molly or as Lieutenant Levinson on Richard Diamond. But classic animation fans will know him immediately as the voice of Elmer Fudd. A man is shot and a woman hops into a cab with the Saint to kick off reflection on Murder, a show that originally aired on NBC on August 30, 1950, and will close with Pin no Roses on my corpse from May 20, 1951, a show that marked Vincent Price's final, final performance as the Saint. But first, the Saint goes underground. We'll kick off our Simon Templar salute right after these messages.

[Vincent Price]

Let's turn back the clock about 24 hours and drop in on Mr. And Mrs. Johnson. They're just returning from a football game. Well, here we are. Home at last. And boy, am I hungry.

[Chester]

So am I. Let's start thinking about some food. Big juicy hamburgers maybe.

[Vincent Price]

Say, that's for me. With plenty of catsup.

[Chester]

Uh huh. Del Monte Catsup. It has such marvelous flavor.

[Vincent Price]

And Mrs. Johnson really knows her catsup. Del Monte Catsup, the zestiest, liveliest catsup that ever pleased a man. Now that football season is in full swing, you'll find Del Monte Catsup a bigger help than ever when planning lunches before the game or supper afterwards.

[Chester]

It's a smart hostess who serves hearty food and lots of it.

[Vincent Price]

With plenty of Del Monte catsup handy.

[Chester]

To add bright, rich, spiced tomato flavor.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, that marvelous tomato flavor you find in Del Monte Catsup. The only catsup made with pineapple vinegar. That superlative vinegar that coaxes out all the best in tomato flavor. Remember, for real zip and zest, it's Del Monte catsup every time. Next time you go shopping, look for Del Monte Katsu.

[Chester]

You'll like its quality and you'll like its thrifty price.

[Vincent Price]

Are you looking for a smooth shave, men? Then try Fitch's no Brush Shaving Cream. It'll give you the kind of shave you want. Because 40 years of experience have gone into the making of this product. Fitch's no Brush contains a special skin conditioner ingredient that takes the work out of shaving. You won't have to struggle and scrape against stubborn whiskers. Because the skin conditioner prepares your face beforehand, it holds the whiskers up so your razor can zip them down closely and quickly. Even against the grain of a tough beard, your razor will glide swiftly, never nicking or scraping. Pitch's no Brush is a boon to sensitive faces because it lubricates gently, keeping that tender skin from being irritated. After this quick, easy shave, your skin will feel cool and refreshed, wonderfully smooth. And if you prefer a lather cream, try Fitch's Brush Cream. It forms a rich, abundant lather when applied with a brush. This lather stays moist all during the shave. Fitch's Brush Cream also contains the special skin conditioner for sensitive faces. Fitch's Brush and Fitch's no Brush Shaving Cream are available in handy 25 and 50 cent sizes. For a shave you like switch to Fitch. Inflation can work the same way in teeth. Prices rise when goods are scarce and people have money. Instead of making your dollars shrink by spending them needlessly when prices are high, why not make them grow with interest by investing in United States Savings bonds? Here's the way it works. $75 invested now each month in US savings e bonds will in 10 years turn into an income of $100 each month for as long a period as you bought the bonds. It's as simple and as sure as that. And easiest when you use the payroll savings plan without missing a dollar. You'll be amazed how savings grow the e Bond Way. $4 for every three. This is the cold season. What do medical authorities say about the common cold? Doctors tell us there's no known drug which will cure a cold. There are effective medications for treating complications accompanying or following a cold. If you've been taking sensible precautions and still have one cold after another, it's best to see your doctor. And here's another important health tip. When you have a cold and need a laxative, that's the time to rely on gentle Ex Lax. Pleasant tasting chocolated Ex Lax helps you towards your normal regularity. Gently overnight. Exlax gets along with any cold remedies you may be taking. And Exlax works where nature wants, in the lower tract, not the stomach. Taken at bedtime, Ex Lax won't disturb sleep. Gives you the closest thing to natural action. The next morning, you're well on your way towards your normal regularity without upset or discomfort. So when you have a cold and need a laxative, take XLax, the laxative you can use with complete confidence. Ex Lax helps you towards your normal regularity. Gently overnight. Ex Lax 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. The Adventures of the Saint Starring Vincent Price. The Saint Based on characters created by Leslie Charterbis and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures. The Robin Hood of modern crime is now transcribed for radio. Starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor, Vincent Price as the Saint. Anything wrong, Captain? Nothing serious, Mr. Templer. Just coming down here for a check. Go on, just soon as we can. Oh, and where is here? Headstone, New Mexico. Used to be a big silver mining town, but now it's just another little town, I guess. Although I did notice there's a carnival playing over on the edge of this emergency landing strip. Well, how long are we to enjoy the Hospitality of headquarters. Oh, two or three hours. Long enough to see the town, have dinner, if you like. We're sorry to delay you, sir. Oh, it's all right, captain. I'm seldom bored in a strange town. Well, you better go back and fasten your seat belts, Mr. Kepler. We're coming down now. Right. I'll see you later. Well, good evening, saint. You know me yet I don't seem to recall your face, Harry Kelly. And you don't recall my face because we've never met. But I've seen many pictures of you and so I recognized you immediately. Well, that's very flattering. Tell me, Mr. Kelly, how can I get into town? You can find a cab on the other side of the carnival.

[Chester]

Planning on staying long?

[Vincent Price]

Not at all. Should I? On the contrary. I was just going to say, suggest that I doubt if headstone would welcome the presence of the saint. Just a friendly remark, you understand. Naturally. And if I may be permitted a friendly question. Why are you telling me this? Just an interest in the continued health of my fellow humans. If you have any trouble in town, look me up. Anyone can tell you where to find me. I look, I look. The big show is just about to start. See little Fatima, the girl who shakes and shivers like a bowl full of jelly.

[Chester]

Only one dime, 10 cents, the 10th.

[Vincent Price]

Part of a dollar. Hurry, hurry, hurry.

[Chester]

What the stars hold for you? I read the past, the present and the future. Learn your fortune, young man.

[Vincent Price]

I already know it, grandmother. I'm destined to meet a tall, dark and beautiful woman. I'll settle for nothing less.

[Chester]

I see strange lines on your face, young man. I will tell your fortune without charge. Give me your hand. I see danger. Beware of a blond young woman. She will bring you death.

[Vincent Price]

They're worse ways of dying, Grandmother.

[Chester]

I see danger. Much danger for one with a halo about his head. Blood and death. Unless he travels. I see.

[Vincent Price]

I think I'm beginning to get the idea. You might tell your crystal ball that I'm beginning to be interested. Goodbye, Grandmother. And may the saints bless you. Taxi, mister? Oh, thank you. Say, do you suppose you can drive me somewhere that serves a good dinner? Sure. Silver Dollar Hotel. Oh, fine. You know, I was just sitting there communing with nature by how many guys there are who blow their wad to watch some dame do a hula but won't spend a dime on a hack. Do I detect a touch of Brooklyn? How could you, miss? That's me chum Ziggy from Flatbush. I used to drive a hack in Brooklyn. Now I own the only hack in Headstone. That's life, huh? You know, I ain't seen the Brooklyn Bridge for 10 years since I come out here for my health. Like I always say, it's a smart man who knows when it's healthy to get out of town. Meaning what? Does everything have to mean something? Me, I mind my own business. I stay healthy. That's why I'm living in Headstone instead of underwater. I see. But if you didn't mind your own business, I suppose you'd give me some advice about leaving Headstone, is that it? No, no. No advice, Mac. That's part of minding my own business. Headstone is a great place for strangers to visit if they paid off their insurance. Here you are. Waiter. Very nice dinner. My check, please. No, no, no, thank you. Keep the change.

[Chester]

Hello.

[Vincent Price]

Well, well. This is a surprising hotel. First a beautiful dinner, and then an even more beautiful blonde.

[Chester]

May I sit down?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, Betty Conley.

[Chester]

You're Simon Templer.

[Vincent Price]

I should have worn my dark glasses, but now that the truth is out, you might as well call me Simon.

[Chester]

All right, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Now, how did you know who I am? Now, don't tell me that you were just passing and recognized why Ziggy told.

[Chester]

Me that you were here. He owns and drives the taxi here in Headstone.

[Vincent Price]

I know I shouldn't look a gift. Blonde in the hair. But why did Ziggy tell you I was in here?

[Chester]

Well, Ziggy knows that I need help, and he thought, well, that is, since you're the saint, you might help me.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I have been known to help beautiful blondes on occasion. But tell me why you should need help, Betty.

[Chester]

Someone's been trying to kill me.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, there should be a law against that. Are you sure?

[Chester]

I've been shot at twice. And everybody here has been very unfriendly except Ziggy and a man named Harry Kelly.

[Vincent Price]

I've noticed the unfriendliness this town. But being unfriendly towards you is obviously an indication of insanity.

[Chester]

Oh, please don't joke about it. I'm frightened.

[Vincent Price]

All right, my dear. Now tell me about it.

[Chester]

Well, my father was known as Silver Slim Connolly. He lived here for years, but he sent me east to school when I was very young. And I didn't come back here until recently. My father died about a month ago.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Chester]

He was broke, and all he left me was his old silver mine. He called it the Betty Mine, after me.

[Vincent Price]

And I take it somebody wants the mine.

[Chester]

No, no, the mine is completely worthless. There hasn't been any silver in it for years.

[Vincent Price]

But, my dear, you were shot at twice. Have you any idea who did the shooting?

[Chester]

No, but it might be the same man who told me to get out of town.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, who?

[Chester]

Mike McCarthy. Ziggy says he's an Eastern gangster who's been living out here for several months. Will you help me, Mr. T. Simon?

[Vincent Price]

Well, I've never been able to say no to a pretty girl. You mentioned a man named Harry Kelly before. Just who is he?

[Chester]

He knew my father. He's been very friendly to me, although he thought I ought to leave town, too.

[Vincent Price]

I've met Mr. Kelly, and he intrigued me very much. I. I think we'll go see you.

[Chester]

All right. Oh, just a minute. There was some red dust on your coat.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, thank you. Ziggy apparently doesn't get enough passengers to keep his cab dusted. Did you say Ziggy was parked outside in his chariot?

[Chester]

He was when I came in. Oh, there he is.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, looking exactly as if he were back in Brooklyn. Ziggy. So she found you, huh? Thanks to your bird dogging, which I must admit, in this case has done much to overcome any natural prejudice against cab divers I might have. Say, do you know where Harry Kelly lives? Sure. Let's go, then. Hey, don't you ever clean out this hack? What's all this dust? Who knows? Maybe it was that redhead that hired me yesterday. So she had dandruff. Ziggy, you missed your calling. You're as funny as an undertaker. Well, now, Ziggy, I don't suppose you'd care to tell me why you warned me to get out of headstone. Got me all wrong saying I wasn't warning you. I was just talking about myself. And I don't suppose you'd care to tell me why somebody took potshots at Miss Connolly here and told her to get out of town, too. Me, I don't know nothing. Like I was telling you, Saint, I mind my own business. Maybe you stay ignorant that way, but it's healthier and I like it like that. In that case, why did you send Ms. Connolly in to see me? Well, like you can see, she's a pretty little pigeon. She needs to know some guy will help her. Now, it ain't no secret that the Saint goes around mixing in other people's business. So I tell her to see you. And who told you I was the saint? I got eyes in my head, ain't I? Like I said, I used to hack in Brooklyn. I got around. What about this Mike McCarthy strictly smart money. Saint, huh? A lot of guys have crossed his path once, if you get what I mean. What about Harry Kelly? Eh, local stuff. A nice schmol, but no more. You're doing all right for a guy that doesn't know anything. You got me wrong, pal. Ziggy, he looks people over, but he don't see nothing. Except one guy is tough, another guy is a schmo. And maybe another guy is too nosed.

[Chester]

I really don't think we should try to involve Biggie, Simon. He's been very nice as he it is.

[Vincent Price]

She's got something, pal. I ain't really equipped for it because the way you're headed, only a saint could feel at home. Well, here we are. St. Kelly lives on the first floor in the rig. Oh, thanks. Wait for us, Diggy. We've got a couple of other calls to make after this. Don't worry, I'll wait. If you get in any trouble, just yell. Then I'll drive over and tell the sheriff I heard somebody yell for help. Thanks, pal. Come on, Betty. I hope our friend is in and that he talks.

[Chester]

Yes. Strange Harry telling you to come and see him if you had any trouble. If he had any connection with me, then why hasn't he said something to me?

[Vincent Price]

Well, he sounded to me like a cautious man. Maybe he did know something, but didn't want to say anything unless he felt sure something was going to be done. Well, we'll soon know. Yes. So is it Simon Templar? Oh, the saint. Just a minute.

[Chester]

Those shots were in that room.

[Vincent Price]

This is no time for conversation, darling. We're going in.

[Chester]

Oh, but like this.

[Vincent Price]

Helly.

[Chester]

Oh, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Kelly. Kelly, this is Simon Templar.

[Chester]

Templar? Saint.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, Kelly, the saint who shot you? Mine, Kelly. Well, Betty, he isn't going to tell us anything. Now. This killer did a very thorough job. Window open. Must have shot from here. There's a shell on the fireplace.

[Chester]

But what was he saying?

[Vincent Price]

Sounded like. Like sin. Come on, Betty. We're going to spread a little saintliness. And I think I know where to begin. But, Ziggy, didn't you hear anything? Well, I noticed some noise, but like I told you, mind your own business.

[Chester]

Are we going to the sheriff's?

[Vincent Price]

No, not yet. Ziggy, who's the estayer in this town? Old man Matthews. The office is closed now, but he lives right ahead there, that big white house. Okay, stop there. But, Simon, I'd like to satisfy a little curiosity about that mine of yours. I'll be right back. You stand here, Betty. What do you want, Mr. Matthews. Who else should be here? It's my house, ain't it?

[Chester]

What do you want?

[Vincent Price]

My name is Simon Templer. I wanted to ask you if you know the Connolly silver mine. I know every mine within 200 miles of here, young fella. Hey, ain't that Betty Connolly sitting up.

[Chester]

There in that taxi?

[Vincent Price]

Yes. Then why can't she tell you about the mine? She owns it. Well, she has told me, but I just wanted to check about the possibility of a mistake. How much silver would you say there was in the Connolly mine? About enough to put in your eye and still leave room for your finger. Couldn't there be a hidden vein in it? Nope. There ain't been enough silver around here to make a dime for years and years. Could there be anything else of value in it? Mud and water, if you call that valuable. You sure? Of course I'm sure, young fella. I've been here man and boy for 70 years, and I ain't got no time to stand around answering darn fool questions. Goodbye. Well, goodbye. And, Betty, you may be right, Old man Matthew says the mine is worthless, too. So, Ziggy, take us to see Mike McCarthy. Are you sure you want to go there? S, if I was you, I'd get on that plane. It's leaving pretty soon. No, Ziggy, I've decided not to leave Headstone just yet. Later you can drive me over to Albuquerque, and I'll take the chief the rest of the way. Okay, Char. It's your funeral.

[Chester]

Simon, please be careful.

[Vincent Price]

Don't you worry, Betty. The Halo Wearers Benevolent association would be very upset if anything happened to me. I'll be right out. Yeah? I'm looking for Mike McCarthy. Well, you found him. It's my Boy Scout training. It never fails. My name is Simon Templer. Saint. I've been known by that name. So what? That's a very interesting question. I must try to think of an answer sometime. Meanwhile, I thought you might like to know that I heartily disapprove of your telling a certain Miss Betty Connolly that she ought to leave town. What's a girl to you? That's my business. I could make it mine. And if I do, your halo's gonna slip down and start choking you. Hmm. I thought bullets were more in your line. Meaning what? Meaning the shots fired at Ms. Connelly in a little gunning job only a few minutes ago. I didn't do any gunning, but I'm liable to if you don't beat it. You sound so sure of yourself, Michael. That's because I got more in my hand than an itching palm. That's a very pretty gun, Mike. But I'm very much afraid that nothing will satisfy my curiosity short of knowing why you want to get Ms. Connolly out of town. I got answers for nosy guys. Six of them. I just stand right there. Stay away from that desk, Saint, or I'll. Don't worry, Mike. I have no interest in the desk at all. But I do have an interest in this Connolly. And now, Michael, I'll bid you adieu.

[Chester]

What happened, Simon?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, not much, I'm afraid. The conversation was just getting interesting when Mike had a sudden attack of dropsy. That's fine. I never heard of him being sick. Oh, that's because you mind your own business, Ziggy. Like you. Tell me, Betty, where is that silver mine of yours?

[Chester]

About two miles out of town.

[Vincent Price]

Is there any place in town where we can rent a car?

[Chester]

Well, why, I have a car.

[Vincent Price]

Why, I feel a prospecting urge coming over me. Ziggy, take us to Ms. Connolly's car and then we can dispense with your valuable services. What's wrong with my cab? Nothing, Ziggy. It's just that I don't like people looking over my shoulder. Especially when I visit a lonely mine in the company of a beautiful girl.

[Chester]

Well, here's the Betty mine. Although I don't know why you want to see it.

[Vincent Price]

Frankly, I don't know either. As long as I'm here, I might as well take the 40 cent tour.

[Chester]

Certainly, sir. Right this way. This old cable car goes down into the mine. All we have to do is stand on the platform and pull the cable. It works with balanced weight.

[Vincent Price]

Cleverly. 49er.

[Chester]

How far down on the 40 cent tour? We give the exact distance. 354ft 6 inches.

[Vincent Price]

Thank you. And thank you for having electric lights in a mine that hasn't been worked for years.

[Chester]

Oh, the mine has its own battery. See, here's a bulb on the car. Shall we go down?

[Vincent Price]

What are we waiting for? Let's go. Maybe the lights will go out. Just hold it like this. I've been waiting for you two. Well, Michael McCarthy, I was wondering if we were going to have your company. And this time, wise guy, don't try anything. Don't tell me, Michael, that you're going prospecting with us. I'm riding down with you, but I'm coming back alone. Start the car down, Saint, but don't try no tricks. You have a suspicious mind, Mike. Well, here we go. Call out your floors, please. Mezzanine. Ladies, underwear, galoshes and accessories. You'll be singing a different tune pretty soon, Saint. You both had your chance to leave town your way. Now you're gonna leave my way.

[Chester]

Oh, Simon, I'm sorry.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, don't be, Betty. This is my first ride on an open cable car. It'll be your last. I wouldn't be too sure. Unless that cable breaks before we get to the bottom. What are you talking about? Nice. Little crowded here for a one, two, so I. I guess a one and a half will have to do.

[Chester]

Oh, Simon, how. How terrible.

[Vincent Price]

Yeah. Now. Bet it's all right, Simon.

[Chester]

It could have been you. He almost knocked you off the platform too.

[Vincent Price]

With the padded shoulders in my coat, I. I felt them hit the side.

[Chester]

Look at your shoulders. They're covered with dirt from the sides of the shaft.

[Vincent Price]

Yeah, it's red dirt. Wait a minute. Well, we can go back up. Betty, Mike doesn't need our help. And I don't need anybody to answer questions anymore.

[Chester]

Simon, I'll never understand you. Why did you look at the dirt on your coat and say you didn't need any more questions?

[Vincent Price]

Because that dirt was red sulfide, Betty. And it explains why Mike was so anxious to run you out of town.

[Chester]

Well, I don't see how red sulfide is used in paint, but that doesn't make it valuable.

[Vincent Price]

Red sulfide is also cinnabar ore, from which we get mercury. And that is pretty valuable. Evidently, your mine is rich in cinnabar. So it's worth a lot of money, Betty.

[Chester]

Oh, then that was what Kelly was trying to tell us when he said sin.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, he was trying to say cinnabar.

[Chester]

How can I ever thank you, Simon?

[Vincent Price]

Well, I. I have a couple of ideas on the subject. But now people would say I was chasing. Chasing you for your money. So I guess you can just see me off on the train. We'll stop in town and have the Ziggy drive us to Albuquerque.

[Chester]

Oh, but I'll drive you.

[Vincent Price]

No, I insist on taking a cab. I don't want you coming back alone. I may want to change my mind about fortune hunting. Like I said, Saint, I'm glad to see you leaving. It's dollar. Just funny about strangers. But you ought to take Miss Conley with you. But she doesn't have to go now, Ziggy. And besides, she's rich. She's what?

[Chester]

Yes, Vicky. We found out that Dad's mine is valuable after all.

[Vincent Price]

You. You mean you found silver in it?

[Chester]

No, mercury.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, the stuff they put in thermometers. That's the stuff, Biggie. But it's used for a lot of other things, particularly in war. And it's worth a lot of money. Well, what do you know? So that's why Mike was trying to make you leave.

[Chester]

That's it.

[Vincent Price]

Well, did you stop and tell the sheriff?

[Chester]

We didn't have time, but I'll see him when we go back.

[Vincent Price]

That's pretty nice for you, ain't it, buddy? Oh, here we are. Just in time, too, the chief said. All right. Very nice timing, Ziggy. Thanks, Betty, for keeping my forced visit to Headstone from being dull.

[Chester]

Oh, Simon. Well, why don't you stay in Headstone? I won't know how to run the mine or what to do with the money or anything.

[Vincent Price]

You'll learn, Betty. You know what to do when you get back to town.

[Chester]

Yes, but will the sheriff believe me? I mean, about Mike McCarthy killing Harry Kelly?

[Vincent Price]

I don't think he will, since Mike didn't kill Kelly. But Kelly was shot with an automatic. He ejected a shell on the fireplace, remember? But Mike McCarthy carried a revolver. You saw it.

[Chester]

Yes, but will the sheriff.

[Vincent Price]

Will the sheriff. The sheriff will believe when you show him that the gun that killed Kelly is in Ziggy's pocket. What? What are you talking about? You knew about the cinnabar ore in the mine. You carried some of it away to be tested in your cab. There was red dust in it, which you tried to explain with a corny gag. You're crazy. Harry Kelly had an idea what was going on. So you slipped around to the back while we were at the front door and killed him. All right, wise guy, you're so smart, what about Mike? Mike was working for you.

[Chester]

But, Simon, Ziggy told me that you were in town.

[Vincent Price]

Sure. He couldn't be sure that I wasn't here to break up his little scheme. So the smartest thing to do was to get us together so he could watch both of us. He thought I would use his cab as I did, and it would be easy. But he slipped up when he sent Mike out to the mine ahead of us. Ziggy was the only one who knew where we were going. Okay, pal, you asked for. Like you said, pal, you should have followed your own advice about minding your own business. He's all yours, Betty. The gun that killed Kelly is now on the seat beside him. All you have to do is turn the body and the gun over to the sheriff. And from there on in, he'll mind Ziggy's business for him. But, Simon don't worry, Betty. I'll stop back Simon someday to make sure that Venus is in conjunction with Mercury. You have just heard another adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime. Now here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen, how many times do there have been men just like Ziggy led into crime by insatiable greed, forgetting the simplest truth so aptly phrased by John Dryden? Murder may pass unpunished for a time, but party justice will overtake the crime. This is Vincent Price extending a personal invitation to all of you to join us again next week at this same time for another adventure of the Saint. Good night. Tonight's script of the Saint was written by Michael Cramway. Our cast included Harry Bartel, Barney Phillips, Colleen Collins, Fred Howard and Tony Barrett. The music was composed and conducted by Harry Zimmerman. The Saint is a James L. Safier Agency production and was transcribed and directed by Thomas A. Mcavidy. Don't forget that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Your announcer, Merrill Ross. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System. The National Broadcasting Company delays the start of this program to bring you a special bulletin from the NBC newsroom in New York. A display of perfect teamwork by American ground and air forces has stunned the communist drive on the Cheonan front. One dispatch says the North Koreans have suffered their first real thrashing of the invasion. And their push on Tajan with 50,000 troops has been halted, at least for the moment, at a point some 35 miles from Tajan. Keep tuned to your NBC station for the later news. The Adventures of the Saint, starring Vincent Price. The Saints. Based on characters created by Leslie Charters and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures. The Robin Hood of modern crime now comes to radio. Transcribed, starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor, Vincent price as the saint. Maxwell. Taxi. You don't want a taxi, Mr. Templar. I got a car right here. What? Well, Augie Castlethwaite. When did you leave Alcatraz? Oh, I got my diploma a couple of months ago. Now I'm back on the apple. Oh, hop in. Are you going my way? Yeah, I'm going your way, all right. Thanks. You're sure it's no trouble? It's no trouble. Move into the driver's seat. You want me to drive? That's right. Why? Oh, don't tell me. This is hot car and you don't want to be found at the wheel. How did you guess, Auggie? Didn't you learn anything in prison? Yeah, I learned crime does not pay. Besides which, it Is against the law. Well, I'm glad to hear it. Didn't you know? I mean, I'm glad to find out, you know. Oh, sure, Mr. Templar. I learned my lesson. I'm off crime for keep. But then this car, Ain't it a beaut? And the keys was in it. With a setup like that, it'd be a crap not to take it. And like I said. Yes, you're off crime for Keith. Yeah. Now, let's go. Shall we dine her up? Oh, but, Augie, do like I tell you. Oh, certainly, Auggie. That's right. Now, put her into first. Oh, Auggie, why didn't you swipe a car with automatic drive while you're at it? I just wasn't thinking, Augie. Why the gun? So she'll do like I tell you. Oh, that's how come you're driving. I want to keep my eye on you. The eye? I don't mind. It's the gun I resent. Put it away and I'll be grateful as long as I live. Trouble is, you ain't gonna live very long. Oh, so that's how we stand. Yeah. I'm sorry, Mr. Templar, but what can I do? The job's a job, Chuck. The job. You know the saying, all work and no play. Well, I'll play after I knock off. You mean after you knock me off. That's right. But, Auggie, you know if you kill me, you'll hate yourself in the morning. Yeah, I know. But if I don't, I'll hate myself tonight. It's a cash deal. And if I top whatever you're getting? No dice. I got my reputation to think of. Pardon me for being crude. Oh, that's all right, Mr. Templar. Well, as long as you're determined to get rid of me, at least tell me who's giving the orders. Oh, sorry. That's confidential. Well, I won't breathe it to a living soul, believe me. Huh? Oh, I guess you won't at that. So there's no harm? I guess you're right under the circumstances. Well, then it's a guy named Ronald Stanton. Ronald Stanton? Who's he? In my business, you don't ask questions. All right, a guy named Ronald Stanton. But what's he got against me? Look, in my business. Ah, yes, but in my business, you do come. For all I know, Stanton calls me in, gives me the assignment, gives me a down payment, and I get the rest on delivery of my course. Right? Well, it's nice work if you can get it.

[Chester]

Yeah.

[Vincent Price]

I'm Sorry about this, Mr. Templer, but times are tough. Mm. You gotta take what comes along. Mm. Opportunity only knocks once. Mm. A guy's gotta live. My sentiments exactly. Hey, wait a minute. What are you doing? I'm just stepping on the cash.

[Chester]

I said slow down and I'll plug you.

[Vincent Price]

You think we can find a coffin built for two? Look out for that coffin. Close. What are you trying to do, scare me to death? It's a thought.

[Chester]

If you don't stop.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, if you don't stop. You said that before.

[Chester]

Please, Mr. Templar.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, you want me to stop?

[Chester]

Yes.

[Vincent Price]

Well, all right.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

What? What hit me? The windshield. And now I'll take that gun. Come on, Augie. Snap out of it. Mr. Templer. What was the idea?

[Chester]

Don't you realize we might have been killed? Never mind, Johnson. I'll get it. I'm expecting visitors.

[Vincent Price]

Very good, sir.

[Chester]

Yes?

[Vincent Price]

Are you Ronald Stanton?

[Chester]

Yes. And you?

[Vincent Price]

Simon Templer.

[Chester]

I. Simon Templer?

[Vincent Price]

As I live and breathe? No, as I do. Surprise, isn't it?

[Chester]

Where's Oggy?

[Vincent Price]

Nursing a headache. Oh, dear me.

[Chester]

I should have known.

[Vincent Price]

May I come in? I want to talk to you.

[Chester]

Certainly. Certainly.

[Vincent Price]

Said the spider to the fly. But before you get any ideas, maybe. Mr. Stanton. I've left word I was coming here.

[Chester]

So for your sake, I quite understand. Come in. Right now, you have nothing to worry about. Mr. Templar, I am constitutionally incapable of violence. That's why I'm forced to depend upon dullards like Augie. As a matter of fact, I'm really in every way unsuited for the sort of work I've engaged in. I should have been an artist. I have the soul of an artist, the temperament of an artist, the intellect of an artist.

[Vincent Price]

Then why aren't you an artist?

[Chester]

My paintings stink. Oh, so you find me a swindler instead. Degrading. But a man must live.

[Vincent Price]

So I've heard.

[Chester]

And at least it does involve intelligence. Matching one's wits, as it were. Oh, dear me.

[Vincent Price]

What's the matter?

[Chester]

I just remembered I must make a note to call the florist in the morning and cancel the flowers.

[Vincent Price]

What flowers?

[Chester]

For your funeral. You won't be needing them, will you?

[Vincent Price]

Not if I can help it. Pity.

[Chester]

They were gorgeous. You'd have loved them.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I'll try to bear up.

[Chester]

Well, now to business. I suppose you've come here for your money.

[Vincent Price]

Have I?

[Chester]

Since Auggie failed me, I'm afraid I'll have to pay. By the way, you're not going to hold this unpleasantness with Auggie against me.

[Vincent Price]

Are You, a little thing like that. Don't be silly. I knew you'd understand.

[Chester]

It was a natural move on my part. Anyone would have done the same. Rather than pay, you would have yourself.

[Vincent Price]

I wouldn't have used Augie.

[Chester]

Neither shall I next time. But since you and I understand each other, it won't affect our dealing?

[Vincent Price]

Not in the least. Good.

[Chester]

Then it's still just the agreed upon amount.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, yes, the agreed upon amount.

[Chester]

Excellent. I may not have it all here, though. We'll see how much is in the safe. Just a moment. Afraid this isn't quite enough. Let me count it.

[Vincent Price]

Don't you ever keep that safe locked?

[Chester]

I never can remember the combination. No, no. This is only 12,000.

[Vincent Price]

Only 12,000? Yes.

[Chester]

You see, I really didn't expect you. If you come to the office in the morning, I'll give you the other three.

[Vincent Price]

Will you be there unless I wake up. In the meantime, good night. Mr. Stanton.

[Chester]

Yes? May I help you?

[Vincent Price]

Well, well, Mr. Stanton has a well equipped office, hasn't he?

[Chester]

Yes, very.

[Vincent Price]

And a well equipped receptionist.

[Chester]

Ah. What do you want?

[Vincent Price]

What do I want? We'll get around to that later. Right now I want to see Mr. Stanton.

[Chester]

Who shall I say is called?

[Vincent Price]

Simon Templar?

[Chester]

Simon Templ. Not the saint.

[Vincent Price]

All right, not the saint.

[Chester]

Oh, but you must be all right.

[Vincent Price]

I am.

[Chester]

Well, I wish you'd make up your. I.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I'm really Bulldog Drummond, but I'm traveling incognito now. May I see Mr. Stanton?

[Chester]

Just a moment. Mr. Templer. This is Mr. Briggs, Mr. Stanton's secretary.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, hello. Ah, yes. Ah, yes, Templar. What is it, sir? What is it? I'd like to see Mr. Stanton.

[Chester]

Mr. Stanton is a very busy man, sir.

[Vincent Price]

Very busy. He'll see me.

[Chester]

Well, now, I don't know.

[Vincent Price]

I don't know. Ah, but I do know. I do know. As a matter of fact, I don't believe he's in yet. Don't believe he is. Well, I'll wait. I'll wait. Can't I help you? Have you got $3000?

[Chester]

$3000?

[Vincent Price]

$3000 to go with 12. I don't understand. I didn't think you would. I'll wait for Mr. Stanton. Very well. If you insist. Very well. Come inside. You can wait there. Thanks.

[Chester]

Oh, the name is Linda.

[Vincent Price]

Oh. Well, I. I hope you'll be here when I get back.

[Chester]

I'll make a point of it.

[Vincent Price]

Lead on, Mr. Briggs. You can wait in my office. This door right here. Go on in. Thanks. Do you. Oh, yes.

[Chester]

Mr. Stanton. Linda, where's Briggs? Isn't he in his office? I've been buzzing. No answer. Go find him, will you? Yes, Mr. Stanton. He was here a little while ago.

[Vincent Price]

Mr. Chapter.

[Chester]

What's that?

[Vincent Price]

I've just been put to sleep, and with you in my dreams. I don't want to wake up.

[Chester]

But what happened?

[Vincent Price]

You took the words right out of my mouth.

[Chester]

Where's Mr. Briggs?

[Vincent Price]

I wouldn't know.

[Chester]

Is he the one who knocked you out?

[Vincent Price]

I wouldn't be surprised.

[Chester]

But why?

[Vincent Price]

That, as they say, is the question.

[Chester]

And why did he tell you that Mr. Stanton wasn't in?

[Vincent Price]

That is, they say. Say, how many questions are there? And as long as questions seem to be in order. Allow me. Is Mr. Stanton in? You?

[Chester]

Yes, he's been in all morning. So I couldn't understand.

[Vincent Price]

What? Help me up, will you?

[Chester]

Oh, of course.

[Vincent Price]

Thanks. What nice leaning on you. I must remember to get knocked out more often.

[Chester]

Do you think you can walk?

[Vincent Price]

Probably, but I don't feel inclined to find out.

[Chester]

Well, we can't just stand here with our arms around each other.

[Vincent Price]

Can't we?

[Chester]

On second thought, perhaps we can. Unfair thought, we can. Here comes Mr. Well, well, well. Isn't this chummy? This is Mr. Templar, Mr. Stanton. He's just had a frightful experience and I. Frightful? Quite the contrary, I'd say. I mean, he was knocked out, naturally. One look at you and any man.

[Vincent Price]

I mean literally, with a SAP. A blackjack.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, no. Oh, yes.

[Chester]

But that's incredible.

[Vincent Price]

Who? Why? I'm afraid you'll have to ask your secretary.

[Chester]

Oh, yes, Briggs.

[Vincent Price]

Where is he?

[Chester]

I can't find him, Mr. Stanton. He seems to have left the office.

[Vincent Price]

Could he have left without your seeing him?

[Chester]

Yes, Mr. Templar. Through the back. But are you. Are you trying to say that Briggs knocked you out, Mr. Templer?

[Vincent Price]

Is it so hard to believe?

[Chester]

I just don't understand it.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I came here for sugar, so I suppose he decided to give me my lump.

[Chester]

Quite good.

[Vincent Price]

Quite good.

[Chester]

Ah, yes, sugar. You want the 3,000? I'll get it for you, Mr. Templar.

[Vincent Price]

All right.

[Chester]

And we're agreed? This settles my account with you, eh?

[Vincent Price]

Yes, Stanton, it does. But I still have an account to settle with Mr. Briggs. Hello, Linda.

[Chester]

Oh, Mr. Chandler. I didn't expect to see you.

[Vincent Price]

I invited you for dinner. Did you think I'd stand you up?

[Chester]

I mean, under the circumstances.

[Vincent Price]

What circumstances?

[Chester]

Haven't you heard? They've found Briggs. Good.

[Vincent Price]

I'll settle with him later.

[Chester]

Right now, aren't you afraid you'll be.

[Vincent Price]

Now, don't tell me you have a jealous husband.

[Chester]

I don't have a husband.

[Vincent Price]

There, you see? Life can be beautiful. But the police are a very dull topic of conversation. I prefer.

[Chester]

But they're looking for you.

[Vincent Price]

For me?

[Chester]

Yes.

[Vincent Price]

So I'll buy a dog license.

[Chester]

It's not about a dog license. I told you they found Briggs.

[Vincent Price]

So you did. What's he been saying about me?

[Chester]

Nothing. Dead men never do.

[Vincent Price]

Well, they're not dead men.

[Chester]

Yes, didn't you know? He's a murder. I beg your pardon, monsieur. Would you care to order now, sir?

[Vincent Price]

I'll be very honest with you, Captain. I. I'm not a bit hungry.

[Chester]

But, monsieur, may I suggest.

[Vincent Price]

No, no, thank you.

[Chester]

But the chef has prepared pheasants on the glass.

[Vincent Price]

Tell the chef to have one on me.

[Chester]

Very well, monsieur.

[Vincent Price]

Now, Linda, what were we talking about?

[Chester]

Oh, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

So I'm suspect number one.

[Chester]

Yes. Did you do it?

[Vincent Price]

Kill Briggs? I hardly knew him. I only kill old folks.

[Chester]

You don't seem to realize how serious this is.

[Vincent Price]

My conscience is clear. And I've got a good lawyer. Tell me something about Stanton, Linda.

[Chester]

What about?

[Vincent Price]

What's his racket?

[Chester]

Why, he's in the real estate business.

[Vincent Price]

So it says on his door. But what's his racket?

[Chester]

I don't understand.

[Vincent Price]

I wonder.

[Chester]

All I know is Mr. Stanton has some big project underway. He's been selling stock in it.

[Vincent Price]

So that's it.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

The racket.

[Chester]

I don't know about it being a racket. It's a business deal. I thought it.

[Vincent Price]

Look, you don't pay off somebody to the tune of 15,000 to shut him up about a legitimate business deal.

[Chester]

Did Mr. Stanton do that?

[Vincent Price]

Mm.

[Chester]

Well, I don't know much about it. I've only worked for him a short while. Who did he pay off?

[Vincent Price]

Me.

[Chester]

You? But you said you didn't know it.

[Vincent Price]

I didn't. But then we all make mistakes.

[Chester]

You mean Mr. Stanton is a swindler and he thought you found out, so he paid you to shut up.

[Vincent Price]

That's right.

[Chester]

And you accepted his money?

[Vincent Price]

Well, it seemed a shame to spoil his fun. But I'll contribute it to a worthy cause. Do you feel like a worthy cause?

[Chester]

But what made Mr. Stanton think that you knew Briggs?

[Vincent Price]

Obviously, he must have been blackmailing Stanton in my name.

[Chester]

Why your name?

[Vincent Price]

If I say so myself, Linda, and I do. It's a name that carries weight with the underworld.

[Chester]

But why didn't he use his own name?

[Vincent Price]

He anticipated. Auggie.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

Blackmail is a hazardous occupation. Briggs wanted to avoid the hazards, so he used my name. Probably intending to send a messenger for the money. But Stanton jumped the gun by sending Augie after me.

[Chester]

Who is Auggie?

[Vincent Price]

One of nature's mistakes.

[Chester]

That's not very specific.

[Vincent Price]

If I were any more specific about Augie, I'd spoil your appetite. And it's time for dinner. So let's forget about Augie and order, shall we? Taxi. Taxi. You don't want a taxi, Mr. Templar. I got a car right here. Well, speak of the devil. Were you speaking of the devil, Mr. Templar? Figuratively. Augie. Oh, Linda, this is Augie.

[Chester]

I see.

[Vincent Price]

Likewise. I am charming to have met you. It is a pleasure. Now scram.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

Scram. I'm afraid you'd better scram, Linda.

[Chester]

But will you be all right?

[Vincent Price]

Yes. I'm sure Auggie will take care of me. Won't you, Auggie? Yeah, yeah, yeah. Now, look, sister, you don't scram so good. You want I should show you how? No, she don't want you should show her how. Go on, Linda. I'll call you later.

[Chester]

All right, Simon. Augie, wait.

[Vincent Price]

And you, Mr. Templar, get in the car. But, Auggie. You heard me. Give me a gun again, Auggie. This is where I came in. You mean, this is where you get in. Go ahead. All right, Augie. Only this time I drive. Oh, I'm hurt. You didn't like my driving, so you're hurt. I let you drive, we'll both be hurt. My left hand stays in my lap with the gun, so just sit quiet. I see Stanton changed his mind. About what? Firing you. Why should he fire me? He was very upset by last night's fiasco. Well, Mr. Stanton is not a man to hold a grudge. Oh, I see. Besides which, I know too much. About what?

[Chester]

Things.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I'm glad you've kept your job. I'd hate to be taken for a ride by a really efficient hoodlum. That's no way to talk, Mr. Templer. I'll have you know I ain't no hoodlum. I'm sorry. I stand correct. You'll sit right where you are. Yes, Audrey. And no tricks this time. No, Auntie. We ain't gonna have another for Basco. No, Auggie. I am a careful driver. So I see. But now, let's see how you do with my foot on yours. Hey, let's watch where you're going, Augie. Get off my foot. All right, Augie. Hey, congratulations, Augie. You're really alert. The way you grab that wheel. Of course, when you grab the wheel, I grab the gun. Oh, this is getting monotonous well, I'm willing to quit if you are. Believe me, Mr. Templer, I am giving it so serious consideration. Mr. Templar, as you live and breathe.

[Chester]

Quite. But where's Augie?

[Vincent Price]

He met with another Fabasco.

[Chester]

I beg your pardon?

[Vincent Price]

You ought to, Stanton. And you can cancel the flowers again. I'm still alive.

[Chester]

Why, of course you are. Why shouldn't.

[Vincent Price]

Oh. Oh, dear me.

[Chester]

Did you think that Auggie was trying to kill you again?

[Vincent Price]

Wasn't he?

[Chester]

Dear me, no. I simply asked him to bring you here.

[Vincent Price]

He doesn't extend a very cordial invitation.

[Chester]

No, I'm afraid not.

[Vincent Price]

But here I am anyway. Stanton. So, what do you want?

[Chester]

It's rather difficult to ask without Auggie.

[Vincent Price]

It shouldn't be hard to ask. It might be hard to get.

[Chester]

Yes, but since Auggie failed again, why.

[Vincent Price]

Did you come to find out why you sicced him on me again. I understood that when you paid me off this morning. We were quits.

[Chester]

Ah, but that was before the murder. That alters matters.

[Vincent Price]

How?

[Chester]

You have $15,000 of mine.

[Vincent Price]

Yours?

[Chester]

I don't wish to discuss ethics, Mr. Templer. Let's just view this pragmatically as simply a bit of tit for tat, as it were.

[Vincent Price]

Very well. Pragmatic tit for tat. What does it mean?

[Chester]

I paid you $15,000 for silence. I thought you might care to repay me the 15 for same.

[Vincent Price]

What would I want you to be silent about?

[Chester]

Your whereabouts. The police are looking for the man.

[Vincent Price]

Who was in Stanton's office this morning. I think if you were here in Auggie's custody, I could offer you the.

[Chester]

Choice of freedom or arrest. But since Auggie once again failed me, the whole matter becomes an academic question. But you can't blame me for trying. After all, you would have done the same. In fact, you did the same, eh? Every man for himself. And no hard feelings, right?

[Vincent Price]

Quite. Good night, Mr. Stan.

[Chester]

Hello?

[Vincent Price]

Hello, Linda.

[Chester]

Oh, Simon. Are you all right?

[Vincent Price]

It is a bull fiddle. Linda. Do you have a key to the office?

[Chester]

Yes.

[Vincent Price]

Good. I'll meet you there in 20 minutes.

[Chester]

Why?

[Vincent Price]

Because I don't have a key.

[Chester]

I mean, why do you want to get into the office?

[Vincent Price]

To find something. What? A clue.

[Chester]

What clue?

[Vincent Price]

How should I know? I haven't found it yet.

[Chester]

Don't you expect to?

[Vincent Price]

With your help.

[Chester]

All right, I'll be there.

[Vincent Price]

Look out for Stanton.

[Chester]

Why?

[Vincent Price]

I have an idea he'll be coming, too.

[Chester]

Oh? Did you ask him?

[Vincent Price]

No, but I don't think he needs an invitation.

[Chester]

And you don't want him to See me?

[Vincent Price]

Not until we're in the office. I don't want to scare him away.

[Chester]

Oh, it begins to sound ominous.

[Vincent Price]

You afraid?

[Chester]

Not as long as you're there.

[Vincent Price]

I wonder how I ought to take.

[Chester]

That as a compliment.

[Vincent Price]

All right. I'll be waiting. Linda, Hurry.

[Chester]

Am I late? Garden.

[Vincent Price]

Right on the nose.

[Chester]

Oh, good. I hurried.

[Vincent Price]

Well, let's go in.

[Chester]

All right.

[Vincent Price]

Don't turn on the light. I don't want Stanton to know we're here.

[Chester]

Whatever you say. But what makes you so sure he's coming?

[Vincent Price]

I just paid him a visit. I could see he was packing. He's preparing to leave town. And he'll probably want to clean out the office first.

[Chester]

He's running away.

[Vincent Price]

So it would seem.

[Chester]

Well, now what do we do?

[Vincent Price]

I'm going in back to see what I can find. You stay here at your desk. If Stanton comes, buzz me.

[Chester]

You mean I stay alone in the dark?

[Vincent Price]

I'll only be a minute. Then we'll stay together in the dark.

[Chester]

All right. Can you find your way to the door?

[Vincent Price]

Yeah, yeah, I found it. I'll be right back.

[Chester]

All right. Yes, Simon? You want something?

[Vincent Price]

Has Stanton showed up?

[Chester]

Not yet.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I'll be right out.

[Chester]

Did you find what you were looking for?

[Vincent Price]

Yes.

[Chester]

Already?

[Vincent Price]

Already.

[Chester]

Amazing.

[Vincent Price]

You don't know the saint. I'll be right out and give you a chance to learn.

[Chester]

Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, Linda?

[Chester]

What did you find?

[Vincent Price]

Do you see what I see?

[Chester]

I don't see anything. It's so dark at the door.

[Vincent Price]

Silhouette.

[Chester]

Oh.

[Vincent Price]

Hello, Stanton. What? Here, let me turn the light on for you. Oh. Oh.

[Chester]

Templar. Amynda.

[Vincent Price]

Yes. We've been waiting for you. Stanton.

[Chester]

How did you know?

[Vincent Price]

Elementary, my dear Stanton.

[Chester]

Seems you've beaten me, Templar, to everything except the.

[Vincent Price]

The draw. Put up your hands. I thought gunplay was out of your line, Mr. Stanton.

[Chester]

Sometimes one is forced to take matters into one's own hands. But I assure you, I don't relish it. So please, do as I say, both of you. Because if I'm forced to shoot you, I know I shall be quite ill. What are you going to do? If you two will just stand quietly with your hands raised.

[Vincent Price]

I have a better idea. He's between us, Linda. He can't watch us both at the same time.

[Chester]

Get over next to her, Templar.

[Vincent Price]

Ordinarily, there's nothing I'd rather do, but under the circumstances, if you don't obey.

[Chester]

Me, much as I hate the sight of blood, I shall be forced to.

[Vincent Price]

In other words, Stanton, there comes a time when even you are willing to commit murder.

[Chester]

Only when absolutely necessary.

[Vincent Price]

It's a nice distinction.

[Chester]

I don't care to discuss it. Now, will you get over next to Linda?

[Vincent Price]

On the contrary, Linda, while he's watching me, now's your chance. Clout him with that standing ash. No.

[Chester]

No, you don't.

[Vincent Price]

All right, Stanton, now that you've turned to her, I've got you covered. Drop your gun.

[Chester]

All right, all right. Don't shoot. As I've told you, I can't stand the sight of blood, especially my own.

[Vincent Price]

Pick up his gun. Now, Linda.

[Chester]

I've got it. Dear me. Perhaps Auggie isn't so incompetent after all. Gunplay can be quite complicated.

[Vincent Price]

Well, we'll send you where you can learn the art from experts. Let me have his gun, Linda, and then you can call the police.

[Chester]

All right, the police. But. But you can't.

[Vincent Price]

Can't we. You.

[Chester]

You promised if I paid you.

[Vincent Price]

I didn't promise a thing, Stan. That was Briggs. What? Besides, there's more than just a swindle to settle. Let's not overlook the murder.

[Chester]

Quite right, sir. You put the police onto me. You'll have to face them for the murder charge.

[Vincent Price]

I wouldn't try to pin the murder on me, Stanton. You see, I could point out that Briggs was blackmailing you in my name. You found out about it and.

[Chester]

Are you trying to say that I killed Briggs?

[Vincent Price]

It's as good a story as that I did.

[Chester]

Why you. You have no proof, Templar.

[Vincent Price]

We'll see. I came here this morning at your invitation. Briggs was terrified. He didn't know you and I had met before. He thought if I talked to you, you'd find out I wasn't the one who was black matting you and it might give. So he knocked me out to keep me from meeting you.

[Chester]

That still doesn't prove anything.

[Vincent Price]

Ah, yes, proof. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. And you can't eat your proof and have it too.

[Chester]

What on earth does that mean?

[Vincent Price]

Nothing at all. Go on, Linda. Call the police.

[Chester]

Yes, Simon. Templar.

[Vincent Price]

Shh. Please, the lady is phoning.

[Chester]

Hello, operator. I want the police, please. Hello, police? Can you send a car to the Stanton Real Estate Company, 8th and Hudson Street. We have a swindler and a murderer. That's right. Yes, that's right. Eights and Hudson. Goodbye, Templar. You're making a big mistake.

[Vincent Price]

I know, but I wanted to give Linda a chance to complete the call. Stanton. Naturally. She wouldn't have if I'd said she is the one who killed Briggs.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

Linda, it looks like we never will get that chance to sit in the dark together.

[Chester]

This is absurd. Why would I want to kill Briggs?

[Vincent Price]

Because you were in on his scheme with him, and you were afraid if he were caught at it and talked, he'd implicate you. So you killed him while I was unconscious.

[Chester]

Why, you. You're.

[Vincent Price]

You're crazy is the usual line at this point.

[Chester]

Well, you are. I had nothing to do with Briggs.

[Vincent Price]

Yet when I came here and asked to see Stanton, you left your desk and went in to get Briggs instead of talking to him on the intercom. Well, I wanted to talk to him behind my back in case he wanted to cook up a story.

[Chester]

No.

[Vincent Price]

Then why didn't you use the intercom? It's connected with his office, and it works. I checked.

[Chester]

So that's what you were looking for. You think you're so clever. Well, you can just. Ah.

[Vincent Price]

Linda, Linda, careful. Remember, I'm a saint. Jackie. Taxi. You don't want a taxi, Mr. Templer. I got a car here. No, Augie, not again. What's the matter, Mr. Templar? Don't you like my company? It's not that, Augie. But I'm warning you, if you keep driving a hot car around town, some nice policeman is going to speak harshly to you and pull you in. Mr. Templar. Yes, Augie? To tell you the truth, that ain't a hot car. Not even slightly warm? Nope. I bought it. Paid cash. Got. Gee, I wouldn't like it to go no further. Oh, I understand, doggy. Don't worry. I won't say a word. I realize what it would do to your reputation. You have been listening to another adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime. And now, here is our star, Vincent Price. This year, the Forest Service of the United States Department of Agriculture prevails on the vacationing and motoring public to exercise extreme care with fire while living, working or visiting in or near forest and woodland areas. Remember, friends, it only takes a moment's carelessness or thoughtlessness to set fire loose in the forest. So let's all be careful. This is Vincent Price inviting you to join us again next week at this same time for another exciting adventure of the Saint. Good night. Tonight's script of the Saint was written by Jerome Epstein. Our cast tonight included Francis Robinson, Arthur Q. Brian, Ted von Eltz and Donald Woods. The music was composed and conducted by Von Dexter. The Saint, transcribed based on characters created by Leslie Charters, is a James L. Sapier production and is directed by Helen Mack. Vincent Price can now be seen in the Universal international picture Curtain Call Attack. And all you Saint fans will be glad to know that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Your announcer is Don Stanley. Nightbeat and Top Secret, two suspense filled, action packed shows come to you tomorrow night on NBC. Make a date here. Top Secret with Lona Massey as a counter espionage agent. And Nightbeat, the story of Chicago After Dark. Both top shows tomorrow night on NBC. Next at Sam Spade. Then Summer Symphony with Benny Goodman on NBC. The Adventures of the Saint, starring Vincent Price. The Saint. Based on characters created by Leslie Charteris and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures. The Robin Hood of modern crime now comes transcribed the radio. Starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor, Vincent Price as the Saint.

[Chester]

What happened? What's wrong? Someone shot.

[Vincent Price]

It's murder.

[Chester]

He's been murdered. Oh, I didn't see you in there. I thought the cab was empty.

[Vincent Price]

That's Perfectly all right, Ms. Ames. Oh, please don't go.

[Chester]

I must.

[Vincent Price]

The police are now at the scene of the crime. They'll take care of things. I can see you're in a hurry.

[Chester]

Yes, I am.

[Vincent Price]

All right, driver, step on it.

[Chester]

Yes, sir.

[Vincent Price]

Comfortable, Ms. Ames?

[Chester]

I don't know you, do I?

[Vincent Price]

An oversight on my part. That can be easily remedied. I'm Simon Templer.

[Chester]

Simon Templer?

[Vincent Price]

Yes.

[Chester]

Oh, you're the saint, aren't you?

[Vincent Price]

Sometimes I feel as though I had a neon sign on my forehead. I'll confess the fatal appellation.

[Chester]

Well, I think I'd better get out, Mr. Templer.

[Vincent Price]

You see, fate is not synonymous with boogeyman, Ms. Ames. And why not call me Simon? After all, we were both present at the unveiling of the court.

[Chester]

If you think you're being funny, Mr.

[Vincent Price]

Templer, there's nothing funny about murder. Particularly when as pretty a girl as you is involved.

[Chester]

But I'm not involved.

[Vincent Price]

A question of semantics, Ms. Ames. A man gets killed when you're within five feet of him and you turn tail and run. If that's not being involved, my dictionary lied to me.

[Chester]

Well, I. I suppose you're right. It was foolish of me to run. But when I heard those shots and saw him fall, I. How did you know who I was?

[Vincent Price]

Such modesty is becoming. But hardly intelligent, Ms. Ames. You're a star. Your show is opening in a week and your pictures have been plastered all over town.

[Chester]

Of course, I should have known.

[Vincent Price]

Did you know the man who was shot it?

[Chester]

Yes. Yes, I had an appointment with him. His name was Jim Barry.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, the publisher. Yes, I know him. Or rather knew him. He's been kind enough to publish some scribblings of mine. But what were you going to see him about? Anything special?

[Chester]

No, just a business talk.

[Vincent Price]

Business talk? With a publisher. Don't tell me the Barry Kilgore Company is going to publish the story of your life.

[Chester]

No, but Jim's firm was preparing an anthology of the modern theater and he wanted to include the new play I'm going to be in.

[Vincent Price]

Down, Betty, down to the floor. I said down.

[Chester]

What happened?

[Vincent Price]

Somebody doesn't like us, Betty. The driver of that car threw some hot lead our way. I don't know. I only saw the glint of a gun out of the corner of my eye. Hey driver.

[Chester]

Are you Simon? Is he dead?

[Vincent Price]

Wait, I'll see. Now how do you like that? We get shot at and he faints.

[Chester]

I don't blame him. I feel him.

[Vincent Price]

Well don't, don't. You must be due at the theater for rehearsal about now. And the show must go on. Though for the life of me I've never been able to understand why. Hey Joe, bring yourself for more dog stage.

[Chester]

Okay Larry, here's my dressing room. Sim, you go in and wait for me. I'd have you watch the rehearsal from the wings that Larry Stevens, our stage manager is superstitious about.

[Vincent Price]

Okay Betty, but your sanctified watchdog will be panting on your threshold till you get back.

[Chester]

After what's happened, Simon, I'll be glad to know you could. Bye. See you later.

[Vincent Price]

Oh well, might as well wait inside.

[Chester]

But really Vera, I don't know what you mean. I think you do, Helen. Just remember what I told you about Jim Barry and you'll be. Simon Templar. What in the world are you doing here?

[Vincent Price]

Well that's what I call a quick switch. Vera Pangburn, lady novelist gets stage struck. Or are you merely getting material for a novel about backstage?

[Chester]

Oh no, no set of novels for me, Simon. Oh, let me introduce Helen Trask. Helen, this is Simon Templer. How do you do Mr. Templar?

[Vincent Price]

As well as might be expected under the circumstances, Ms. Trask. I'm not too accustomed to entering one lovely ladies dressing room and finding two others awaiting me.

[Chester]

Well as a matter of fact Helen and I were waiting for Jim Barry. We thought he was coming here with Betty.

[Vincent Price]

Jim Barry? Oh, he's your publisher isn't he Vera?

[Chester]

Yes, and Helen's too. Helen's his really latest discovery. She has a new novel coming out.

[Vincent Price]

Well I'm afraid you're going to be disappointed ladies. Barry's been unexpectedly detained.

[Chester]

Oh, and I was so anxious to see Him?

[Vincent Price]

Why not let me substitute? I'm very good at parlor tricks and small talk. Your name's Templar? Yes, it has been for a number of years. I can remember way back when my parents. I had a big idea of keeping Ms. Ames away from rehearsal. Oh, did I? I. Who are you? Oh, Stevens, the stage manager. That's right. And I'm also the guy who doesn't like Stage Door John's. There's something about the way you said that that hurts me deeply. It. Hey, what's that thing in the cuff of your trousers, Steven? In the cuff of my trousers? Yeah, right here. Now, look here, Templar. I don't know what this is all about. Maybe you don't, but you should know a revolver cartridge when you see one. Revolver cartridge? Is that what this is? It is. Where's Betty Ames? Why, in rehearsal. I had them start. And I presume there's a shooting scene in this play. I. Yes, toward the end of the first act. But I. You like me even less after this. But I'm stopping that rehearsal. You can't do that. I don't. You'll have a dead star on your hand, Betty Ames.

[Chester]

Are you crazy?

[Vincent Price]

I hope so. I hear them. Where's the closest stage engine? Over there to your left. I hope you know what you're doing. I'm afraid I do. They're at the shooting scene now. Stop it. Don't shoot.

[Chester]

What is it, Simon? What's the matter?

[Vincent Price]

Apparently nothing, but I'm a little amazed at finding you all right.

[Chester]

But why shouldn't I be, Simon?

[Vincent Price]

Now there you have me. Quiet. Quiet, everybody. Pepper, I've had enough of this nonsense. You've held up the rehearsal by keeping Betty away, and now you've broken up the end of the first act. Either you get out of this theater or I'll have you throw it up. You know, Stevens, I must be super sensitive. Why else would I get the idea that you don't like me? No, don't answer. There's something I want to do first. Where's the gun your leading man fired just now?

[Chester]

Now, baby, it's over there on the floor. Just a prop gun with blank cartridges.

[Vincent Price]

And cartridges. So that's it. I've always wondered how people shot and Blaze had so many lies. You mind if I take a look? What's all the commotion about? Oh, hello, Mr. Kilgore. We've been having a little trouble with a fellow named Templar, but everything's under control. Well, it better be. I've got quite an investment in the show and the way it looks now, it'll flop before they get to the. Now, there's nothing for you to get excited about, Mr. Kilgore, I assure you. Of course, that's all in the way one looks at it. And I suggest that you look at this gun. I see it, Templar. So what? So this. Break it open.

[Chester]

Simon, those aren't blank cartridges. They're real. Real?

[Vincent Price]

But that's impossible. Perhaps you'd better take a second look. Why would anyone in this theater substitute real bullets for the blanks? Now, that is a puzzling question, Stevens. Of course, it couldn't possibly be that someone was interested in killing Betty Ames, now, could it?

[Chester]

I still don't understand how you knew Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Well, theatrical people may dress somewhat unconventionally, but I thought that Stevens with revolver cartridges in his trouser cuffs was going a bit overboard. Fortunately, your leading man is a sensitive soul. He jumped at least a foot when I shouted at him as he followed.

[Chester]

Oh, if you hadn't startled him.

[Vincent Price]

Yeah, Then I doubt that we'd be sitting here in your dressing room.

[Chester]

But why should anyone want to kill me?

[Vincent Price]

The usual motives are money, jealousy and fear of discovery.

[Chester]

But I'm not rich, and there's no reason for anyone being jealous of me. And I don't know a thing about anyone.

[Vincent Price]

Are you certain of that, Betty?

[Chester]

Of course I am.

[Vincent Price]

You were pretty much in evidence when Jim Barry was killed.

[Chester]

So were a dozen other people.

[Vincent Price]

Yeah, but perhaps they didn't see what you saw.

[Chester]

I didn't see anything.

[Vincent Price]

At the killing, perhaps, but what about. Well, a familiar face in the crowd, for example.

[Chester]

Familiar face? No. Oh, wait a minute. Yes. Yes, I did see someone.

[Vincent Price]

The eyes have it. You saw the killer. Who was it?

[Chester]

That's just it. I don't know.

[Vincent Price]

Let me remind you that a familiar face belongs to someone you know or have seen before.

[Chester]

Yes, I know that, Simon, But I just caught a flash of the face and I was thinking it looked familiar and was starting to identify it in my mind. And then the shots were fired and Jim Barry was killed. And then it was gone.

[Vincent Price]

I don't suppose you got a similar flash among the people in the theater tonight?

[Chester]

No. Might have been any one of them. Or none of them.

[Vincent Price]

Hardly what I'd call an elucidating statement. Let's put this together. Barry was the publisher for Vera Pangburn and Helen Trask, and both of them were in the theater. Kilgore, who put up the money for the show, was Barry's part partner in the publishing business. And he was in the theater. Steven's the stage manager.

[Chester]

Had that cartridge in his cuff.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, he did, didn't he?

[Chester]

So where does that get us, Simon?

[Vincent Price]

Exactly nowhere. Well, as my old grandmother used to say, if at first you don't succeed, try checking up on the corpse. Come on, Betty, let's go to the morgue.

[Chester]

This place gives me the creep.

[Vincent Price]

Son, strangely enough, the morgue never was noted for being the most cheerful place in the world.

[Chester]

Do you think you're a skin work?

[Vincent Price]

How optimistic can one man be? But it's quite the trial.

[Chester]

Looking for someone, Mr. Templar?

[Vincent Price]

Hello there, Duncan. How are things?

[Chester]

Things? They're pretty dead, right?

[Vincent Price]

Same jolly old soul, aren't you?

[Chester]

Oh, I get my kicks, Mr. Templar.

[Vincent Price]

Now, peachy for you. Feel jolly enough to do me a favor? Maybe. Yeah. Did you get an advanced case of rigor mortis in here sometime this evening? Fella by the name of Barry.

[Chester]

Barry?

[Vincent Price]

Yeah, you sure did.

[Chester]

Gun killing.

[Vincent Price]

Neat job, too.

[Chester]

You want to see him? Oh, no.

[Vincent Price]

I bow to the lady, Duncan. But you know, I have a theory that every murdered man dies with exactly $11.63 in his pocket. You have?

[Chester]

But how could that be, Mr. Templar?

[Vincent Price]

Let's look at his personal effects and see. Hey, Duncan. Personal effects?

[Chester]

Well, I ain't so sure I ought to.

[Vincent Price]

No, sir, can't. You know the rules. Oh, of course. I'm sorry I mentioned it, but Ms. Ames was anxious to see if those opening night tickets to her new show, the ones in your name, that is, could possibly have been lost around here somewhere. Oh, $11.63, you say?

[Chester]

Well, that's an interesting theory, Mr. Templar.

[Vincent Price]

And we can't block the properties of science, can we? No, indeed.

[Chester]

There you are.

[Vincent Price]

Take a look. Wallet, jewelry, couple of key rings. There's a couple of hundred bucks in the wallet. Smash.

[Chester]

Resort theory.

[Vincent Price]

Alter tunet. Noted. Is that all there was on him? Well, see for yourself. I told you that. Hey. Hey, look out.

[Chester]

Yeah, you're okay, miss.

[Vincent Price]

Okay, I got you.

[Chester]

Thank you. Thank you. I don't know what happened. Suddenly everything turned black.

[Vincent Price]

All right, Betty, don't talk. I'll get you outside. Even an old ghoul like Duncan gets queasy in here sometimes. No, I don't neither.

[Chester]

You sure you're okay, miss? Yes, thank you. I'm all right now. Thanks very much, Mr. Duncan. Well, you're welcome. And them opening night tickets in my name you lost? Oh, you'll find them at the box office in your name, Mr. Duncan. Well, glad you folks dropped in the first part of your scheme. Seemed to work all right, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I did get hold of Barry's keys and thanks to the fainting act you staged. And very realistic it was, too. But there was little else of interest there.

[Chester]

Then what goes on now?

[Vincent Price]

I might suggest that we halt right here in front of the office of Barry, Kilgore & Co. Publishers, pick out a key, then look as though it fits the lock and walk right in there. You see what skilled perseverance and some petty larceny can accomplish. Now, where's Jim Barry's office, do you know?

[Chester]

Oh, yes. Right over there. Kilgore is the one next to it. There's the light switch on the wall.

[Vincent Price]

You'll never make an understudy to a sneak thief by talking about lights. Betty, my flashlight's enough.

[Chester]

But I still don't understand what you expect to find up here, sir.

[Vincent Price]

Neither do I. But I'm looking for motives. And what better place to find motives than in the dead man's private files? Let's start with this stuff on the desk.

[Chester]

Those are only galley proofs of a book, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Sure, it would appear. What a fascinating title. My Heart's One Romance by Helen Trapp.

[Chester]

Oh, no. Talk about corn. No motive for murder there, I wonder. What do you mean?

[Vincent Price]

This inter office memo clipped to it. Listen to this. For Pete's sake, Jim, stop publishing this kind of tripe before it ruins us. It's initial K. K for Kilgore.

[Chester]

What do you make of that, Simon?

[Vincent Price]

I think Kilgore didn't like the book. But if it's as bad as all.

[Chester]

That, why was Jim Barry publishing it?

[Vincent Price]

Maybe you better take another look at Helen fast.

[Chester]

Oh, you mean you think that Helen and Jim Barry lied?

[Vincent Price]

I prefer to keep an open and clean mind about these things. But we do know Kilgore didn't like it. And Kilgore stands to get plenty now that Barry's dead. He becomes sole owner of the business.

[Chester]

Simon. Simon, someone's coming to the outer office.

[Vincent Price]

Very inconsiderate of him.

[Chester]

But what if it's the police? Jim Barry's murderer?

[Vincent Price]

Her suggestions are very inconsiderate of you.

[Chester]

What's he doing now? Simon?

[Vincent Price]

Not he. There are two people in the office.

[Chester]

Are they coming in here?

[Vincent Price]

No, no. They've gone into Kilgore's office. They didn't turn on the light, so they must be familiar with the place. Remind me to complain to the owners of this building. They've made these walls so soundproof I can't even recognize the voices. Let alone hear. Yeah, we could hear those all right, couldn't we? I'll be right back.

[Chester]

No, Simon, please.

[Vincent Price]

Don'T worry. Simon. Oh, Whoever it was got away.

[Chester]

Simon. Simon, are you all right? I'll get a doctor.

[Vincent Price]

I better make it a carpenter instead. Betty Carpenter. Yeah, the shots missed, but I certainly smashed up that desk I ran into. Let's find the lights and see how much damage was done. That does it now, Simon. Yeah, the damage was quite extensive. To Mr. Kilgore. Our chief suspect has been crossed off the list by a bullet between his eyes.

[Chester]

Well, at least you got me home safe and sound.

[Vincent Price]

Simon, after what's going on today, I'm beginning to wonder how that happened. Does everything look to be in place? Yes, of course, Betty. It's a funny thing, but ever since my college prom days, I've had an abiding dislike for chaperones popping up unexpectedly. I'd better look around. Look, don't let these modern inventions frighten you, Betty. The telephone is quite harmful.

[Chester]

My nerves are. I'll answer it. Hello, Betsy? Betty, this is Vera Pangborn. Oh. Oh, yes, Vera. I want you to do me a favor, Betty. I think I know something about Jim Barry's death. Just a minute, Vera. Simon, it's Vera Pangborn. She says she thinks she knows something about the Barry killing.

[Vincent Price]

Well, don't be piggish about things. Split the receiver with me and let me listen too.

[Chester]

Vera, what do you mean? I don't know just how to explain it, Betty, but. Get away from that window. Vera, what is it? No. No.

[Vincent Price]

Vera.

[Chester]

Vera, are you still there? Simon, those were shots. What happened there?

[Vincent Price]

This may come as a tremendous surprise, Betty, but it sounds like Vera Panguin just became murder victim number three.

[Chester]

Vera doesn't answer S. Well, I must.

[Vincent Price]

Use brawn instead of brains. Ineffective, if not neat. Come on, let's go in.

[Chester]

Simon, there she is. Yeah, on the floor. Is she?

[Vincent Price]

She's luckier than Barry or Kilgore. Shot in the upper part of the arm. You better get some towels, Betty.

[Chester]

I'll be right back. What happened, Simon? Man on the fire escape is shot at me.

[Vincent Price]

I'd be indignant about it too, Vera, but suppose we talk about it later?

[Chester]

You better let me at it.

[Vincent Price]

Wait up. I'll lift her under the Devon there. Now, if you'll make like Florence Nightingale, Betty, I'd like to look at the firescape.

[Chester]

All right, son. Betty. Betty. Poor darling. Time for talk later. Let's get you fixed up first. You just relax, Vera. We're here and Everything's going to be all right. Thanks, Betty.

[Vincent Price]

The view from your fire escape is very disappointing, Vera. Only shattered glass out there. Did this homicidal friend of yours shoot through the window?

[Chester]

Yes. I was talking on the phone to Betty. I. I looked up and saw he had a handkerchief over his face and he shot twice. There you are, Vera. And that'll hold you until we get a doctor.

[Vincent Price]

By the way, Vera, not that I'm curious or anything, but what was it you were going to tell Betty over the phone about Jim Barry's murder?

[Chester]

I can't tell you, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I'll admit I'm not as pretty as Betty. Or as family.

[Chester]

No, no, no, I won't say anything. He's already shot at me once. I won't say anything. He'll kill me. Vera, take it easy. You don't have to tell us anything. I mean, Sam, we better call a doctor. She's in no condition to be bothered now.

[Vincent Price]

Right now neither am I. Suppose you take care of the medical details and then meet me at Helen's.

[Chester]

Ask apartment at Helen's?

[Vincent Price]

Yeah.

[Chester]

Is that where you're going now?

[Vincent Price]

No, I'm going to Larry Steven's place. And if that sounds confusing to you, it's no wonder I'm a little confused myself. Yes? Hello, Stevens. You mind if I step inside? Templar, what in blazes are you doing here? I guess you do mind. Oh, well, I have an invitation for you, Stevens, to come calling on Helen Trask with me. Helen Trask? Why should I go to her place? I thought it would be sweet if we all chewed over a few explanations together. You'll get no explanations for me. Now get out, Templar. Okay, Stevens, but if you don't mind, I will. Would like to leave you something first. Yes, what's that?

[Chester]

This.

[Vincent Price]

You know something, Stevens? I think you're coming with me whether you want to or not. All right. Now that Betty is here, we have a quorum.

[Chester]

But I. I don't understand, Mr. Templer. Why are you all here at my apartment?

[Vincent Price]

There's no sense asking him, Helen. He's completely crazy. Stevens, I think you're prejudiced because your jaw still aches a little. Ms. Trask, when I entered Betty's dressing room tonight, Vera was saying something to you about Jim Barry. What was it?

[Chester]

Why, she was merely warning me against him. Said he had a weakness for young women writers.

[Vincent Price]

In your case, that's understandable. Would you say his weakness could account for a rather poor manuscript being extended?

[Chester]

If you're insinuating anything, Mr. Templer, oh, Helen, of course not. You didn't listen to Vera, did you? Naturally not. Mr. Barry always acted like a perfect gentleman.

[Vincent Price]

What are you driving at anyway? Templar. They say I'm a perfectionist, Stevens. I don't like ragged details hanging over. And that snatch of conversation intrigued me. Something else intrigues me too. That cartridge in the trouser cuff episode. You really are determined to play Sherlock Holmes, aren't you? Well, if it'll relieve your mind any. On my way to Betty's dressing room, I bumped into a prop table box of what I thought were blank cartridges spilled against me and onto the floor. Did you think that there might have been some loaded cartridges among the blanks and that one of them lodged in your cup? That's it exactly. A very simple explanation. Yeah, it's almost too simple. Did you try to check this theory of yours? Well, I tried to, but when I got back to the table, the box was gone. Which of course makes it even simpler. Do you mind if I use your phone?

[Chester]

Oh, I know. No, not at all.

[Vincent Price]

Thanks.

[Chester]

You calling the police, Simon?

[Vincent Price]

No. Vera Pangman.

[Chester]

Vera Pangburn?

[Vincent Price]

That's right. Hello. Oh, yes, Doctor. How's Ms. Penguin? That's fine. Give her a message, will you, please? Tell her Simon Templer called and she needn't worry about that killer any longer. That's right. Betty Ames has remembered who it was she saw at the scene of the murder and that's all the evidence we need.

[Chester]

Simon, what is this all about?

[Vincent Price]

Beautiful here in the park, isn't it?

[Chester]

You know very well that I haven't remembered the face I saw when Jim was killed.

[Vincent Price]

A brilliant moon, soft starlight. A perfect night for romance. And she talked.

[Chester]

Please, Simon, please. What are we doing out here anyway?

[Vincent Price]

To take a cue from you? Just killing time. And I think we've killed enough. Let's get going.

[Chester]

Simon, for the last time, will you give me a direct answer? Where are we going?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, didn't I tell you, Betty? Why, I'm merely taking you home.

[Chester]

Here's my door, Simon. I can find my way in alone.

[Vincent Price]

Don't you think the least I can do is to search the apartment for you again?

[Chester]

That won't be necessary, thank you. Good night.

[Vincent Price]

Well, at least allow me to turn the lights on for you. There.

[Chester]

You satisfied? Now you can see for yourself if there's.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, I can see quite well. Hello, Vera.

[Chester]

Shut that door, Simon, quickly.

[Vincent Price]

I never argue with a lady, Vera. Particularly when she's got a gun in her hand.

[Chester]

That's better. I thought that phone call of Yours might have been a trap, Simon, but I had to make sure.

[Vincent Price]

Now that you apparently have made sure.

[Chester]

Vera, you and Betty are going to join the others. Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Tell me why you killed Jim Barry, Vera. Was he your husband?

[Chester]

Pretty smart, aren't you, Simon? That's right. Jim was my husband.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, I thought so. Jealousy was the only motive I could figure for you.

[Chester]

Every young woman who came along and thought she could write turned his head. The Helen Trask, a high school girl could write a better book than she did.

[Vincent Price]

But Jim Barry was going to divorce you and marry her, wasn't he? Yes.

[Chester]

And now Jim's dead and Kilgore is dead because he suspected me. And you're going to die too, right now.

[Vincent Price]

No, you don't. Give me that. She's going to shoot.

[Chester]

She's going.

[Vincent Price]

No. She is. Are you, Vera?

[Chester]

No. No. Oh, son. Oh, Simon, I was so scared.

[Vincent Price]

You know something, Betty? So was I.

[Chester]

I still don't understand, Simon. That business of theirs being shot. Now, how did you know that she faked that?

[Vincent Price]

You know, Betty, that's one thing I always dislike about solving a murder. I have to explain things, but if you won't let well enough alone.

[Chester]

No, Simon, I won't.

[Vincent Price]

All right. It was the glass and the fire escape. Now, shall we get back to that moon?

[Chester]

Simon, what about the glass?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, it came from the shattered window and there was no glass within the room. Therefore, the shot was fired from within, scattering the glass outward. And who was inside the apartment at the time?

[Chester]

Vera?

[Vincent Price]

Mm. We have achieved a meeting of the mind. Now, if we can carry that a bit further while discussing those lovely shimmering stuff.

[Chester]

But I heard two shots fired over the phone. Did she use the second one to give herself that flesh wound?

[Vincent Price]

If you were afraid someone was closing in, you'd make a last desperate attempt to throw suspicion elsewhere, wouldn't you?

[Chester]

And she was the one who put the real bullets in the gun in the theater and fired at me in the cab. But, Simon, why me?

[Vincent Price]

I hate to get repetitious, but remember those motives for murder I listed?

[Chester]

Money, jealousy and fear of discovery.

[Vincent Price]

Yeah, let's latch onto the last one. She was afraid you'd remember that it was her familiar face you saw in the crowd just before Jim Barry was killed. Satisfied now?

[Chester]

Well, almost. There's just one more little thing.

[Vincent Price]

Look, Betty, if it doesn't concern the moon, I'm not interested.

[Chester]

All right, Simon, get interested.

[Vincent Price]

You have been listening to another transcribed Adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime, the Adventures of the Saints, starring Vincent Price the Saint. Based on characters created by Leslie Charters and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures, the Robin Hood of modern crime now comes transcribed to radio starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor Vincent Price as the Saint. Would you like some more coffee, madam?

[Chester]

No, thank you, Chester.

[Vincent Price]

Excuse me. I'll see who's at the door. Coming.

[Chester]

Chester?

[Vincent Price]

I answered the doorbell, madam, but who is it? No one, madam.

[Chester]

That's silly. Someone rang.

[Vincent Price]

Someone rang, madam, but you see, there's no one at the door. No one at all.

[Chester]

I suppose it could have been children playing pranks.

[Vincent Price]

Perhaps so, madam.

[Chester]

Then shut the door at Chester.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, madam.

[Chester]

At your feet, on the doorstep.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, it seems to be a package of some sort.

[Chester]

Pick it up. Yes, madam. Don't give it to me. I'm sorry, Chester, but shut the door. Come along in here. Now open that package.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, madam.

[Chester]

Well, haven't you finished yet?

[Vincent Price]

Any moment. There.

[Chester]

What is it?

[Vincent Price]

You have only to look, madam.

[Chester]

What is it?

[Vincent Price]

Nothing important, madam. Only a red rose.

[Chester]

A red rose.

[Vincent Price]

Mr. Templar, how do you find the roster be, huh? Very easily. You make the joke.

[Chester]

You make the joke.

[Vincent Price]

I love.

[Chester]

I laugh.

[Vincent Price]

Mrs. Matucci, she's a very happy. Oh, who is Mrs. Martucci? That's my wife. Well, I'm glad I make your wife happy. Perhaps when we get around to the dessert, I can make your children happy too. I know. God, children. Oh, that's too bad. But perhaps by the time we get around to the dessert. No, not enough time. However, Mr. Templary, you are maybe expected a lady. Well, I always hope. But what lady?

[Chester]

The one that she's over in a.

[Vincent Price]

Corner table with very beautiful eyes. Corner table? Now that you mention it, you're quite right. She has lovely eyes. But I wasn't expecting her. Not until Christmas at any rate. She's a watch you all through the dinner. Perhaps there's something fascinating about the back of my neck. There must be so, because now the lady should get up. And where do you think she comes to? This table? Yes. Well, goodbye, Tony. Oh, I take the hint. Goodbye, Mr. Temple.

[Chester]

I beg your pardon, but you are Simon Templer, aren't you?

[Vincent Price]

Yes, I am.

[Chester]

May I sit down?

[Vincent Price]

Of course.

[Chester]

I'm Laura Kane.

[Vincent Price]

How do you do? Would you like something to drink?

[Chester]

No, thank you. A drink wouldn't help.

[Vincent Price]

Or perhaps I could.

[Chester]

I'm pretty desperate and very beautiful. Thank you.

[Vincent Price]

But you didn't come to my table to hear me say that.

[Chester]

No, Mr. Temple. You see, I know about you.

[Vincent Price]

It's probably an exaggeration.

[Chester]

You're the saint.

[Vincent Price]

Yes. It is an exaggeration.

[Chester]

And I need help, desperately.

[Vincent Price]

Help about what, Mr. Templar?

[Chester]

Look.

[Vincent Price]

And I think for a couple of reasons, you'd better specify what I'm to look at.

[Chester]

Oh, at my shoulder. My left shoulder.

[Vincent Price]

Very pretty. There's a red rose pinned to it.

[Chester]

That's what I need help about, the rose.

[Vincent Price]

And I know very little about flowers. Except. Except that they're beautiful and are very often sent to beautiful women.

[Chester]

As someone who never sends his name, as someone who sees to it that they're delivered secretly with no word at.

[Vincent Price]

Night, that is rather unusual.

[Chester]

It frightens me.

[Vincent Price]

Well, perhaps the roses is sent by an admirer of yours. A very shy admirer.

[Chester]

I thought that at first, but not anymore. No matter how shy a man might be, it's not easy for anyone to sneak into a house night after night, unseen, unheard. It can't be shyness.

[Vincent Price]

Well, perhaps not.

[Chester]

It takes cunning, determination. There's more, too.

[Vincent Price]

Yes.

[Chester]

My first husband was killed a number of years ago. The police never found out who killed him. When his body was found, Mr. Templer, there was a red rose pinned to his shoulder. Mr. Templer?

[Vincent Price]

Yes?

[Chester]

Do you think I'm being hysterical about this? I mean, am I attaching too much importance to something that might be harmless?

[Vincent Price]

I don't know. Too many unknown factors. You married again, didn't you?

[Chester]

Yes, to Henry, last year.

[Vincent Price]

Did he know about your first husband?

[Chester]

Of course.

[Vincent Price]

Your husband's at home?

[Chester]

No. Which isn't unusual. Oh, he's away most of the time. He likes to travel, climb mountains and things like that.

[Vincent Price]

And you?

[Chester]

I don't like climbing mountains much.

[Vincent Price]

How about your husband?

[Chester]

I don't like him much either.

[Vincent Price]

I see.

[Chester]

Do you? He's very rich.

[Vincent Price]

I suppose, in view of your sentiments, he'd have to be.

[Chester]

And he is away lot.

[Vincent Price]

So there are servants.

[Chester]

Well, only Chester, the butler.

[Vincent Price]

Does he know about the roses?

[Chester]

He knows I've been getting them. I don't think he knows about their connection with my first husband. Which is just as well. I don't think he admires me.

[Vincent Price]

Then why do you keep him on?

[Chester]

Henry insists. Henry's very much attached to Chester. And Chester makes a good watchdog. This is where I live.

[Vincent Price]

It's a large house.

[Chester]

You're being kind. It's not only large, it's horrible. It's belonged to Henry's family for hundreds and hundreds of years. I sometimes get the feeling all of them are still living in it with us.

[Vincent Price]

No lights in the house?

[Chester]

No. Chester likes to go to bed Early. And he's careful about saving Henry's money as well as his reputation. He always goes about turning lights off.

[Vincent Price]

Must make the house a very cheery place.

[Chester]

It does. Cheery as a tomb. You know, I'm afraid to go in.

[Vincent Price]

Why not ring?

[Chester]

Chester wouldn't like being waked.

[Vincent Price]

You asked me to come home with you because you were afraid your unknown admirer, the man who's been sending you the roses, might be waiting for you. Well, I could go in alone.

[Chester]

And I'm being silly. The light switch is to your right, Simon.

[Vincent Price]

Right.

[Chester]

Anyway, there's no one in the foyer. I'm. I'm counting my blessings as they come along.

[Vincent Price]

Where are the roses usually left?

[Chester]

Sometimes on the doorstep mostly, though in the living room, on a table there and then.

[Vincent Price]

Suppose we try the living room?

[Chester]

Yes. Wait. The lamp's right near the door. I'll get it. There's nothing on the table. No roses.

[Vincent Price]

No roses. But, Mrs. Kane.

[Chester]

What?

[Vincent Price]

On the couch, the far corner.

[Chester]

Flowers are there. They never. Henry.

[Vincent Price]

Stay where you are, Ms. Kane.

[Chester]

Oh, please, Mr. Templer. Please, please tell me he's all right.

[Vincent Price]

I'm afraid I can't, Mrs. Kane. Yes? Yes, there's a knife buried in his chest. He's dead.

[Chester]

Oh, no. Henry. Henry. Mr. Chandler.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, I know. Mrs. Kane, your husband is holding a red rose. Hey, Mr. Templer. Come over here. All right. We want to be alone. I don't break this case, I'm liable to wind up being alone someplace. Out in Staten Island, a cave, was a very rich boy. Very rich. Don't like to get murdered. Unlike the poor, you mean. The same difference. Except around dumps like this, a cop's got to be careful. Now look, Templar, we got your story in the babe. Mrs. Kane, is a very beautiful and need I remind you, a very wealthy woman. She's a babe. We got your stories. Translated, that means we got a couple of pages of nothing. Now, did you happen to know that her first husband got himself knocked off too? I didn't happen to know. She told me. I suppose maybe that's a mark on her favor, but. How do you like the butler, Chester? Well, I. I don't know. I never met him. I mean as a suspect. I never liked butlers. Suspects? Old fashioned. He lives here. Except he don't seem to be living here anymore. It makes sense to me, whatever it does to you. Now, the thing I'm worried about is, was his disappearance a coincidence? Or would it be because he stuck a knife in the bush? I wouldn't know, of course. If we figure him for the kiln, it would make everybody very happy. Except Chester. Yeah, well, we'll find him. Well, nothing more to do around here, so I guess I'll pull the boys out, go back to my pinochle game. You stand on for a while. You think the widow needs consolation? Lieutenant, you are a cad. Look, nobody ever confused me with a gentleman. Anybody ever confuse you with a saint? Well, it's nice of you to even consider the possibility. Good night, Temple. All right, boys, we go home. Simon. I'm still here.

[Chester]

It was nice of you to stay. And the police were very nice.

[Vincent Price]

Why not get to. There's nothing to be done tonight.

[Chester]

Simon, do they really think Chester killed my husband?

[Vincent Price]

Do you?

[Chester]

No. Chester would never have harmed Henry.

[Vincent Price]

Well, that leaves Chester with a job on his hands explaining his disappearance. But that's his problem, I suppose.

[Chester]

I am tired, son.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I'll go. But, Laura.

[Chester]

Yes?

[Vincent Price]

I don't think he'll show up. I'm not talking about Chester.

[Chester]

He. What do you mean?

[Vincent Price]

Well, you've been waiting for someone all evening. Every time the front door opened, even though the police were here, you grew tense, expectant. It was fairly obvious.

[Chester]

La, you're imagining things.

[Vincent Price]

All right, perhaps I. Good night.

[Chester]

Good night, Simon. And thanks for everything.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I didn't do anything I wish I could have prevented. Try and get some sleep. I'll phone in the morning.

[Chester]

Thank you, son.

[Vincent Price]

Hi, Mr. Templar. Oh, hello, Joe. Lieutenant left you on guard, huh? Yeah. Me, I'd be happier. Was I inside? Oh, the weather out here? No, the lady in there. Well, that's life. And practically in the raw, too. Good night. Good night. Mr. Templar.

[Chester]

Mr. Templar.

[Vincent Price]

What? Quick, get in the car. Do hurry. Oh, all right. Of course, I might be walking into the lion's den. Good heavens, Do I look like a lion? No, no, much more like a lamb. So I've been told. Better.

[Chester]

Much better.

[Vincent Price]

What is? Getting away from that dreadful house. I never could stand the architecture. Deplorable. Yeah, not to mention the policeman out front. Please, that's not. All right, Mr. Templer. You're quite a detective, aren't you? Not exactly a detective. But you do detect every once in a while, don't you? When I can't help myself. Why? Well, you see, I drove up to the house and noticed hordes, but hordes of policemen outside. I'd been expecting to drop in on Laura and. And share a cup of tea with her. Champagne would seem to be more in Laura's line. Well, I don't mind a bit of Wine myself, you know. However I'm babbling. What I mean to say is, with all those policeman around, I thought it hardly wise to visit, you know. No. Oh, I'm sorry. I've been terribly rude. My name's Gordon Ashenden. My friends call me Gordy. Well, I'll try to resist. But you haven't told me yet whatever has happened. Where? At dear Laura's, of course. Well, it's dear Henry's too, you know. What is? Dear Laura's house. Oh, well, yes, of course. But why think of nasty things? Because they've become even nastier. What on earth are you trying to say? Dear Henry is dead. Well, it's most distressing, of course, but dear Henry is not only dead, he was murdered. Oh, dear Laura shouldn't ever. Oh, that is. What makes you think Laura did? I didn't say. I do not think that Laura did anything of the sort.

[Chester]

I. Oh, I just remembered it.

[Vincent Price]

Terribly important engagement. You will excuse me, won't you? You can get a cab right at the corner. Oh, yes, of course. Mr. Ashendon. Yes? That engagement you just remembered. What about it? I'd be very careful keeping it. Nonsense. It's a business engagement. Might be the making of me. Perhaps. On the other hand, it might be the death of Alexander Graham Bell. You may roast. Hello, Mr. Templar.

[Chester]

Mr. Simon Templer.

[Vincent Price]

Are you satisfying a morbid curiosity or addicted to practical jokes? I realize it's very late, sir, but. I'm Chester, Mr. Templar. Chester, the butler? Yes, sir. The police, I'm afraid, are more interested in you than I am. I don't dare go to them. Why not? They must think I murdered Mr. Kane. Did you? Of course not. Well, then why didn't you stay at the house? Because the murderer was there. The murderer being? I didn't see him. I heard Mr. Kane cry out and then horrible sounds. Then I heard steps coming toward me. So you ran? Yes, sir. Well, why have you called me? Because I knew Mrs. Kane had spoken to you about the roses. How did you know that? Well, she. She told me she was going to tell you. That is. What do you want me to do? Help me prove my innocence. Then you'd better come here. Oh, I can't. I'm afraid to leave. Where are you? Mr. Keane had a small hunting lodge. That's where I am. It's on Cressley Road, just across the George Washington bridge off Highway 12. I don't dare come into the city, Mr. Templer. Well, I see. But you've got to help me. I don't want to be murdered. All right, then. I'll be out there as soon as I can. Thank you, sir. Please hurry. I'd like to be alive when you come, Mr. Templer. Yes, there is. So you explained everything. But it still don't seem right in the middle of the night. Nobody takes a taxi to New Jersey. But I have. That's what bothers me. Also, it's my taxi. You know something? It's dark in New Jersey. Well, that happens in New York, too. Yeah, but it's more like home there. It don't make me feel good. You're not supposed to feel good. We're on our way to help a man whose life may be in danger. Oh, now I feel worse. Look, this butler, Chester, supposing he killed Mr. Kane himself. So from whom would he be in danger from? But he may not have killed Kane, Louie. So didn't let him stay in New Jersey.

[Chester]

No.

[Vincent Price]

No. He was in the house when Kane was murdered. Yeah, but he didn't see the killer if he's telling the truth. That's right, Louie. Except the killer may not know that this here is the place. Yes. Cabin set back when they run. Come on, let's go. Oh, I should have rung my elephants up if I had elephants up. But we're not hunting elephants. It could be a lot safer than what we do. Quiet enough. Don't complain, Mr. Temple, please. The sounds you're liable to hear out in this wilderness are not sounds. I want to hear the lights in the cabin, man. Maybe Chester went to Pennsylvania. Hey, Mr. Temple, it's a joke. See, There's a town in Pennsylvania called Chest. Yeah, all right. Maybe it wasn't a joke. Maybe. And let you hear my feet chatter. You gonna knock? Of course. Who? Who's there? Simon Templer. Chester? Yeah, and Louie. And Louie. Come in, please. Quickly.

[Chester]

I haven't dared to put the lights.

[Vincent Price]

On in this room. It faces the road. Will you come with me? All right. Shouldn't have had the lights on here in the kitchen either. But I was afraid to wait in the dark. Is anyone likely to suspect you may have come here? I don't know.

[Chester]

I can't even thank Mr. Temple.

[Vincent Price]

You're sure you don't know who killed Mr. Kane? No, I don't.

[Chester]

If I did, I could have gone.

[Vincent Price]

To the police and been safe. This way. Mr. Kane was very wealthy, wasn't he? Yes, sir. And Mrs. Kane? Well, she was married to Mr. Kane, so. I meant in her own right. I don't think so, sir. Kane wasn't home very Much at the time, was he? No, sir. Why? Well, he wasn't really happy in his marriage. He could have divorced his wife. Well, not Mr. Kane, sir. He couldn't have endured the scandal. I see. Chester, that name. You can't think of the killer's name, could it possibly be Gordon Ashton? I don't know. What does Mr. Ashton do besides have tea with Mrs. Kane? He raises flowers, sir. He has a conservatory out on. Among those flowers, could there possibly be roses? Roses, sir? Yes. You know what they are? Of course, sir. Well, then, suppose you answer my question. Well, I. I should imagine he raised roses, sir. Chester. Yes, sir? I'm having unkind thoughts about you. What do you mean, Mr. Templar? I think, for example, that you know who killed Mr. Kane.

[Chester]

Oh, no.

[Vincent Price]

I think also that your original intention was to keep quiet about that knowledge until the case had been closed as unsolved. Why would I do a thing like that? It's an ugly word, Chester, but I'm afraid I'll have to use it. Blackmail? Oh, that. That's ridiculous. No. For an innocent man. There's no explanation of your behavior that holds water. I was afraid. Mr. Kane was knifed to death. The room in which he died showed no signs of struggle. Therefore, you couldn't have heard the murder. He must have seen it. No, sir. Your story about fleeing from mysterious footsteps is childish. According to your own story, you had no way of knowing whose they were or even who had been killed. An honest man in your circumstances would simply have run out into the street and yelled for help. You didn't. Now, who killed Mr. Kane, Chester? I don't know. Or would you prefer dying alongside the murderers? An accessory after the fact. Very well, sir. I did see you. Wait. That window. Chester, you're near the lamp. Turn it off.

[Chester]

Huh?

[Vincent Price]

Turn it off. He didn't turn it off. No. A bullet did it for him. Came through that window. If we can find the door. In this confounded darkness. Yeah. Yeah. Here it is. Oh. Oh. There goes a car. Kill his car. We're too late, Louie. Come on, let's go back in. There's another lamp around. Wait. Strike a match, please. Okay. Mr. Temple. Yeah. Here it is, Mr. Temple. I know, Louis. Two of the bullets hit him. Oh. Ain't gonna bottle no more, huh? No. His second murder scene in two days. But in this one, he played the tit. Hey, you know, Mr. Templet, I know. Jersey Cops. Wasn't bad. You know, if I'd have shut my eyes, I could almost have imagined there was New York cops. This goes to show you. To show you what? That crossing a river don't change a cup. I'm taking you home. No, Louie. Mrs. Kane, if you don't mind. I mind. Look, Mr. Templer, maybe she's beautiful, but right now I could easily spoil even Helen of Troy. And from what I hear from the boy, she was the all time tomato. You hear? Right. How do you know? You was around while she was still on the vine. Louie. Yeah? We're passing Mrs. Kane's house. Oh. Oh, there's a cop outside the house. So there is. Wait for me, Louie. I'll wait. Hey, you. Oh, hello, Mr. Templar. Hello again. Joe. Like to see Mrs. Kane? So what I. I mean, at this hour? Does she turn invisible at certain hours? Oh, follow. I know she wants to see you. Well, you might try asking her. Okay. You wait here. Why? Well, that way I get to see her. Hey, you know something? I'm afraid I do. She's gone. That's right. But how did I know? I guess she shouldn't have ducked out. I'm supposed to protect her. Hey, hey, Mr. Templar, where you going? Believe it or not, Joe, I'm going to pick a few flowers. That would be the green houses over there. Me, I ain't interested in flowers. Over this way. A small house where Gordon lives, I should think. Maybe there's a light on. Yeah. And now let's see how quietly I can open the door. Very quietly, but very bad manners. Don't remind them. Where's the bumper? I know. After all, Laura, you stood at your house. Whatever would the police think if they find out you've been gallivanted around the countryside?

[Chester]

What will they think when they find.

[Vincent Price]

Out you did I was here all night.

[Chester]

No, Gordy. Because when I got here I stopped and touched the hood of your car. It was hot.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I had been restless and gone out for a drive.

[Chester]

Which there too, Gordon.

[Vincent Price]

Choose a girl, Laura. What difference does it make where I. I haven't just become rich because of the murder as I have. How? And not for the first time in.

[Chester]

You knew about my first husband and the roses.

[Vincent Price]

I knew, my dear.

[Chester]

And you must be planning on giving.

[Vincent Price]

Up flower growing and helping you bear the burden of your. Well, to the idea I shall perhaps grow. Very kind.

[Chester]

Oh, no.

[Vincent Price]

Yes.

[Chester]

I throw off me.

[Vincent Price]

No. This is where we come into it. Good evening, Simon. What the devil do you mean by. By not knocking, intruding, eavesdropping? I'm a cad. You'll never hear me call you. Gordy. Better let go of Laura. All right. You didn't be so heroic about it. As a matter of fact, I'm here merely to give you a message. Really? From whom?

[Chester]

Chester Simon. The police have found him.

[Vincent Price]

He's in their hands at the moment. Simon.

[Chester]

The police won't treat him badly, will they? Because he didn't kill Henry.

[Vincent Price]

He didn't kill Henry and the police won't treat him badly. You see, he's dead.

[Chester]

Oh, no.

[Vincent Price]

Poor old chap. You lack conviction, Mr. Ashenden. I lack interest. After all, what was Chester to me? More than you realize, perhaps. You see, he was shot to death in front of Louis and me. He had been in the house when Henry Kane was murdered. He knew who the murderer was. I still like him. You shouldn't. Before he died, Chester passed that name on to me. He did? He did? Is that why you're waving at Runabout? I just want to be sure. Listen, I don't care what Chester said. If he told you I murder caned you, he was lying. That's it. Lying.

[Chester]

Gordon, please put that gun away.

[Vincent Price]

No, Gordon, don't put the gun away, but stop pointing it at me. You might try another direction until the police arrive. Other dream. Who? Mrs. K, of course. You see, she happens to have killed both her husband and Chester Simon. Oh, dear. Oh, my. And for heaven's sakes, don't faint till later. So, in the middle of the night, we're sitting in a restaurant. This adds up. It certainly does. Laura Kane interrupted me earlier tonight and I never got to the dessert. Hey, Mr. Templer. I know the cops have locked Mrs. Kane up, which personally, I think is a waste on account of how she looks. But look, I can't believe she killed her husband in the bucket. She did. Louie.

[Chester]

Yeah?

[Vincent Price]

I'd like to ask you how you know, only I don't want to stay here till breakfast. It's very simple, Louis. Her motive is obvious. She was afraid Cain might divorce her. Therefore she killed him and hoped to inherit his money. Aha. And the Roses. An attempt, and rather a clever one, to direct suspicion at Gordon. She even put on an act with Chester about the Roses. Ordinarily, if Chester hadn't decided blackmailing her would be more fun, he'd have testified about the Roses routine and helped convict Gordon. Yeah, yeah, yeah, but how? Now, excuse me, but I think any minute this. How did you know whoever murdered Chester had been eavesdropping and knew that Chester hadn't been given the opportunity to tell us the murderer's name yet When I suggested Chester had told him. Aha. Gordon got scared and started waving a gun. So you knew he was innocent. And that left Mrs. K. A lady whose love was not at all like a red, red ro. You have been listening to another transcribed Adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime. Now here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen, all of us who live in the United States are aware of the material values of American life. Our factories and machines and luxury. But there is another side to American life, a side made up of spiritual values. Our country was founded upon faith in God. In the Declaration of Independence, it states that men were endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights. Thus, religious faith is part of the very foundation of American democracy and one of our most precious national heritages, his freedom of worship. Without faith, the family and the community become unstable. Without faith, the individual denies himself the peace and guidance of religion. The doors of your churches and synagogues are open to you. The freedom to worship as you please is yours. And so America's religious order organizations invite you to find yourself through faith and to come to church this week. This is Vincent Price inviting you to join us again next week at this same time for another exciting adventure of the f. Good night. This script of the Saint was written by Lewis Vitis. In our cast, you heard Larry Dobkin as Louis and Mary Ship as Laura. Ted Osborne played Gordon Drew Krugman the waiter. The cop was played by Barney Phillips and Fester Jack Morrill. The Saints, based on characters created by Leslie Charters, is a James L. Sapia production and is directed by Helen Mack. Read Vincent Price's favorite story of the month in the current issue of Front Page Detective. All you Saint fans will be glad to know that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Renouncer John Stanley Three chimes mean good times on NBC. Later today, hear the Phil Harris Alice Fay show for music, Song and laughs with Phil, Alice, Frankie and Juliet. Enjoy the very best in radio. Be sure that you're dialing right. Seems like the very best in radio morning, noon and night is from this station. Morning, Good night. The night NBC. This is NBC, the national broadcasting Company.

[Podcast Host]

We just heard Vincent Price as the Saint and that will do it for this week's episode. Thanks so much for joining me. I'll be back next week as we head into the exciting world of jewel heists with four Old Time Radio mysteries involving the theft of diamonds. In the meantime, you can check out Stars on Suspense, my other Old Time Radio podcast. New episodes of that show are out on Thursdays if you like. What you're hearing. Don't be a stranger. You can rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com Meansts OTR Next time, diamonds and Detectives. Until then, good night and happy listening.

[Vincent Price]

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. Lets judge our neighbors by the character of their lives alone and not on the basis of their religion or origin.