Episode 624 - It’s a Dog’s Life (Boston Blackie, Sherlock Holmes, Philip Marlowe, The Saint, & Barrie Craig) - Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)

Summary5 min read

Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives) Episode 624 - It’s a Dog’s Life (Boston Blackie, Sherlock Holmes, Philip Marlowe, The Saint, & Barry Craig) Release Date: May 18, 2025

Host: Mean Streets Podcasts

Introduction

In this captivating episode titled "It’s a Dog’s Life," Down These Mean Streets delves into five enthralling radio mysteries where man's best friend plays a pivotal role in unraveling criminal intrigues. Featuring legendary detectives from the Golden Age of Radio—Boston Blackie, Sherlock Holmes, Philip Marlowe, The Saint, and Barry Craig—each story highlights the unique bond between detective and dog, showcasing how these loyal companions aid in solving complex cases.

1. Boston Blackie: Murder at the Dog Show

Synopsis:
Richard Kalmer stars as Boston Blackie, a reformed jewel thief turned detective, who investigates the perplexing murder of Mrs. Marilyn Lawrence during a prestigious dog show. The case becomes intricate when Lawrence's champion boxers, Angel and Spartan, exhibit unusual behavior, hinting at their knowledge of the crime.

Key Highlights:

Opening Scene:
Boston Blackie declares, "Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison of the grave." [00:00]
This sets the tone for a gritty investigation where Blackie's past informs his relentless pursuit of justice.
Investigation Details:
Blackie examines the police report:
"Ad society matron slain in Riverview mansion. Death by instantaneous bullet, .38 caliber." [08:06]
The absence of a clear motive and the presence of two champion dogs deepen the mystery.
Notable Quotes:
"Inspector Faraday, do you know where Blackie?" [25:32]
As Blackie collaborates with the police, the dogs' peculiar reactions to certain names become crucial clues.

Conclusion:
Blackie's confrontation with Henry Ellington reveals Ellington’s sinister motives tied to financial desperation, ultimately leading to his confession and unveiling of the murder plot [30:03].

2. Sherlock Holmes: The Dog Who Changed His Mind

Synopsis:
In the classic tale "The Dog Who Changed His Mind," Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson tackle the enigmatic case of Lady Blenkinsop's murder. The loyal pug, Bobo, serves as an unwitting witness, providing Holmes with subtle but vital clues that lead to the true perpetrator.

Key Highlights:

Holmes' Entrance:
Holmes demonstrates his acute observational skills: "Your ears, Watson, are nearly as well trained as my eyes." [36:35]
This emphasizes Holmes' unparalleled deductive abilities.
Investigation Details:
Upon discovering Lady Blenkinsop poisoned by laudanum, Holmes discerns discrepancies in the official reports, suspecting foul play beyond a mere overdose [43:39].
Notable Quotes:
"She's lying there dead. Poor little creature." [48:22]
Reflecting Holmes' empathy and dedication to uncovering the truth.

Conclusion:
Through meticulous analysis, Holmes debunks the suicide theory, exposing Dr. Tillinghurst's involvement and securing justice for Lady Blenkinsop [56:06].

3. Philip Marlowe: The Orange Dog

Synopsis:
Gerald Moore brings Raymond Chandler's iconic detective Philip Marlowe to life in "The Orange Dog." Marlowe navigates the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, where counterfeiters and mysterious symbols converge around a prized porcelain lion known as the "Orange Dog of Foe."

Key Highlights:

Case Introduction:
Marlowe receives a desperate plea from Shelly Martin to investigate her sister's entanglement with Lou Horner, a San Francisco broker [62:09].
Investigation Details:
Marlowe deciphers cryptic messages and uncovers a counterfeit operation linked to the elusive orange dog [83:30].
Notable Quotes:
"The orange dog was stolen first so the thief could break in later without the dog barking." [85:23]
Highlighting Marlowe's strategic thinking in piecing together the clues.

Conclusion:
Marlowe's relentless pursuit leads to the exposure of counterfeiting schemes and the apprehension of key suspects, demonstrating his prowess in solving intricate crimes [87:20].

4. The Saint: Dossier on a Doggone Dog

Synopsis:
Barry Sullivan steps into the role of The Saint in "Dossier on a Doggone Dog." Simon Templar assists Louie in recovering a lost Pekingese named Minerva, only to uncover a deeper conspiracy involving stolen jewels and deceit within an affluent household.

Key Highlights:

Mission Briefing:
Templar is hired to locate Minerva, whose disappearance seemingly ties into larger criminal activities [99:00].
Investigation Details:
The trail leads Templar and his associate to uncover forged documents and hidden motives within the victim's family [103:36].
Notable Quotes:
"The Orange Dog of Foe is here waiting for you." [80:12]
Illustrating the escalating tension as Templar confronts deceitful characters.

Conclusion:
The Saint skillfully navigates through layers of deception, ultimately dismantling the criminal plot and ensuring Minerva's safe return, reinforcing his reputation as the Robin Hood of modern crime [142:23].

5. Barry Craig: Beware the Walking Dog

Synopsis:
William Gargan portrays Barry Craig, America's favorite confidential investigator, in "Beware the Walking Dog." Craig is entangled in a web of counterfeiting, murder, and espionage, all seemingly connected to a mysterious canine named Caesar.

Key Highlights:

Case Introduction:
Craig is approached by Doreen Dimple to walk her dog, Caesar, for $500, only to face unexpected gunfire during their first outing [122:20].
Investigation Details:
As Craig delves deeper, he uncovers a counterfeiting ring involving his client’s family and confronts violent adversaries intent on silencing him [131:05].
Notable Quotes:
"I know that same thought's already occurred to me." [123:26]
Demonstrating Craig's intuition and tactical acumen in high-stakes situations.

Conclusion:
Through courage and sharp detective work, Barry Craig dismantles the counterfeiting operation, bringing the culprits to justice while ensuring Caesar's safety, embodying the quintessential American investigator [144:04].

Conclusion

Episode 624 of Down These Mean Streets masterfully intertwines canine-assisted detective work across five distinct narratives, each showcasing the timeless appeal of classic radio mysteries. From Boston Blackie's street-smart insights to Sherlock Holmes' legendary deductive prowess, Philip Marlowe's gritty investigations, The Saint's suave strategies, and Barry Craig's relentless pursuit of justice, this episode celebrates the enduring legacy of Old Time Radio's greatest crime fighters and their loyal dogs. Notable moments and quotes enrich each story, offering listeners a nostalgic yet fresh exploration of radio's golden detective tales.

Notable Quotes:

"Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison of the grave." — Boston Blackie [00:00]
"I can make the murderer say 'uncle'." — Philip Marlowe [15:13]
"The Orange Dog of Foe is here waiting for you." — The Saint [80:12]
"No, nothing, Peel." — Philip Marlowe [84:15]

Final Remarks: This episode not only pays homage to beloved radio detectives but also reinvigorates their stories with the timeless charm of canine companionship. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of Old Time Radio, "It’s a Dog’s Life" offers a rich tapestry of mystery, loyalty, and classic detective flair.

For More: Stay tuned for next week's episode featuring another thrilling adventure with your favorite Old Time Radio detectives. Don't forget to rate and review Down These Mean Streets on Apple Podcasts or your preferred listening platform!

Loading summary

Transcript913 lines

[00:00]
Boston Blackie
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.
[00:13]
Philip Marlowe
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 Doll. Hello and welcome to down these Mean Streets and more Old Time radio detectives and crime fighters. This week's show is Going to the Dogs with five radio mysteries centered on man's best friend. First, Boston Blackie finds murder at a dog show where a wealthy woman is killed right after her pooches capture the best in show prize. Richard Kalmer stars as the reformed jewel thief turned detachment detective in this syndicated mystery. Then a dog is able to tell Sherlock Holmes who killed his owner in the case of the Dog who Changed His Mind. Originally aired on Mutual on September 28, 1947. This original Holmes radio mystery was written by Edith Miser and it kicked off the 1947-48 season of Holmes shows that starred my favorite actors to play the detectives of Baker Street. John Stanley as Sherlock Holmes and alfred Shirley as Dr. Watson. For our third show, the dog at issue isn't a furry friend. Instead, it's a rare jade statue that is very much in demand, as Philip Marlowe discovers in the orange dog. Originally aired on CBS on January 22, 1949, and starring Gerald Moore as Marlow. In our fourth show, Barry Sullivan is a substitute Simon Templar in Dossier on a Doggone Dog. An Adventure of the Saint from September 24, 1950. Sullivan stepped into the Saint's halo for two episodes that fall when Vincent Price couldn't return from France in time to record the shows. Templer follows a lost dog back to its home and finds she's the pet of a wealthy and eccentric woman whose jewels have been stolen and they disappeared around the same time as the dog. And finally, Barry Craig is hired to walk a dog and then finds its owner unconscious. William Gargan stars as America's favorite confidential investigator in Beware the Walking Dog. Originally aired on NBC on May 3, 1953. We'll let the dogs out with our Old Time Radio detectives right after these messages. Auto Light Original factory parts and auto light service stations work as a team to help you maintain carefree, economical performance for your car. So, friends, when your car's electrical system needs attention, drive into your nearest auto light service station or the dealer who sells your make of car and ask for original factory parts and auto light service. Money can't buy better electrical equipment than auto light. And remember, Auto light means spark plugs ignition engineered spark plugs. Auto light means batteries stay full battery. Auto light means ignition system, the lifeline of your car.
[04:17]
Doreen Dimple
This is the Autolite suspense show.
[04:19]
Philip Marlowe
Drive as if your life depends on it. It does. Good night. Switch to auto light. Looking for a good food buy? Then get Velveeta, Kraft's famous pasteurized processed cheese food. Velveeta is one of the best food buys you can make because Velveeta is not only delicious, but it's nourishing too. And you can use Velveeta so many ways in snacks, sandwiches and for a variety of economical hot main dishes. Melt Velveeta for a smooth golden cheese sauce to extend leftovers or to use a new made dishes. Make it your handy helper for all kinds of money saving hot meals. Get it tomorrow. Your best buy in cheese food Velveeta made only by craft and Here's a word from RCA Victor. Last week the curtain went up on the 75th anniversary of the National Baseball League and the 50th anniversary anniversary of the American League. There's no better way to celebrate than by enjoying at firsthand the thrills and the clean sportsmanship of baseball today. Baseball today. It's the American way. Of course, the next best thing to a seat in the stands is a seat in front of a 19 inch RCA Victor television. RCA Victor's new Extra powerful picture pickup gives you the best possible reception everywhere. You know RCA Victor television is most in demand. But here's really important news. RCA Victor 19 inch television is available. It's on display now at dealer stores. So insist on the best. Insist on seeing 19 inch million proof television by RCA Victor. When you do, you'll agree inch for inch. Your best buy in television is RCA Victor 19 inch. To make every day more enjoyable, treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. Here's a taste treat you can enjoy indoors, outdoors, at work or at play. The cool, long lasting mint flavor refreshes you. The smooth, steady chewing helps keep you fresh and alert. Adds enjoyment to whatever you're doing. Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. Healthful, refreshing, delicious. 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. Quiet everybody. Quiet. I said quiet for just a moment. Please. We've now come to the high spot of the 15th annual dog show as the kennel club proudly announces the best of show. Ah, yeah, this. This year's best of show award is unprecedented. This year, the best of show goes to two dogs. Yes, I said two. Two champion boxers. Mrs. Marilyn Lawrence's angel and spartan of buddington. Will you come here to accept your awards as Mrs. Lawrence?
[08:01]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, yes, of course. Oh, fine, fine.
[08:04]
Philip Marlowe
Here you are, Mrs. Lawrence, and congratulations.
[08:07]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, thank you. Thank you very much, Mr. Carlton.
[08:11]
Philip Marlowe
And ladies and gentlemen, quiet, please. Quiet, quiet. Before we bring our show to a close, I have several announcements about next year's show and the several sectional shows which will be.
[08:24]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Mr. Ellington, how are you?
[08:26]
Philip Marlowe
Depleted, of course. Must. Aren't we all? Except you. Congratulations.
[08:29]
Doreen Dimple
Why, thank you.
[08:30]
Philip Marlowe
And now I'd like to make you an offer.
[08:32]
Doreen Dimple
An offer?
[08:33]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, I'd like to buy angel and spartan. How much?
[08:36]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. Ellington, but angel and spartan aren't for sale.
[08:40]
Philip Marlowe
I'll make you an interesting offer.
[08:41]
Doreen Dimple
No, no, no, I'm sorry, Mr. Ellington. Angel and spartan are not for sale as long as I live.
[08:48]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, well, that gives me encouragement, Mrs. Lawrence. Who knows how long any of us will live? And now on to dick kalmer as boston blackie. Enemy to those who make him an enemy, friend to those who have no friend. Here are the details of that report coming in on the police teletype now, inspector Faraday. Thanks, Rollins. Let's have a look at it. Ah, they got the dead woman's name. Now I'll read it. Let's see, it says, ad society matron slain in riverview mansion. The dead woman is Mrs. Marilyn Lawrence, famous breeder of dogs, wealthy widow. Two boxer dogs, angel and spartan of buddington, tied for best of show at kennel club this afternoon. Two champion dogs. Only witnesses robbery, not motive. Death instantaneous bullet,38 caliber. Enz. Yeah, that's the end, all right. Yeah, the end of that report and the end of Mrs. Lawrence. But just the beginning for us. Come on, we got work to do.
[10:23]
Doreen Dimple
Here, angel. Here, girl. Come get your food. Here, Spartan, come get yours, too. Now eat it, both of you, every bit of it.
[10:34]
Philip Marlowe
Good morning, Miss Lawrence.
[10:36]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Ellington.
[10:37]
Philip Marlowe
May I come in?
[10:38]
Doreen Dimple
If you don't mind, I'd rather not see anyone this morning. After what happened to aunt Marilyn last night, I.
[10:44]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, that was dreadful. But that's partly the reason I'm here.
[10:47]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, please, Mr. Ellington. I'd rather not see anyone today. Inspector faraday from the police was here last night for hours I've had no sleep. Please.
[10:56]
Philip Marlowe
How distasteful it must be to have police in the same house with two champion dogs. You really don't mind if I come in and admire the animals, do your Say, hold on, spartan.
[11:07]
Doreen Dimple
Quiet. Quiet now. Quiet down.
[11:09]
Philip Marlowe
Well, those dogs certainly don't like me. Hold them back.
[11:12]
Doreen Dimple
Well, I. I'm doing my best. It isn't that they don't like you. They always bark their heads off when they see someone for the first time, but never after that.
[11:22]
Philip Marlowe
I think they nasty because they know you hate them, Miss Lawrence.
[11:26]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, get out of here, Mr. Ellington. I can't hold them any longer.
[11:29]
Philip Marlowe
You think I'm afraid of mere animals? Oh.
[11:34]
Doreen Dimple
Help angel down.
[11:35]
Philip Marlowe
They're carrying my clothes. Something. They're killing me.
[11:40]
Doreen Dimple
Put on their collars. Poo.
[11:42]
Philip Marlowe
Get them off before they kill me.
[11:46]
Doreen Dimple
Now go away. Away. There, there, that's better. Now, now, quiet down, you stupid animals. Are you. Are you badly hurt, mister?
[11:56]
Philip Marlowe
No, but my clothes are in shrimps. I wanted to get those animals once, but I don't anymore.
[12:03]
Doreen Dimple
Well, that's not strange, Mr. Ellington, considering the fact that it's quite apparent they wanted to get you. Oh, hello, blackie. Come on in.
[12:21]
Philip Marlowe
Thanks, mary. Well, I'll set for dinner.
[12:24]
Doreen Dimple
No, not quite. We'll have to wait a few minutes. I have company.
[12:27]
Philip Marlowe
Company? I don't see anyone here.
[12:29]
Doreen Dimple
Come look in the kitchen.
[12:30]
Philip Marlowe
What is this, a joke?
[12:31]
Doreen Dimple
No, it's. It's two of them. Only I don't think you'll call them jokes. Come and look.
[12:37]
Philip Marlowe
Well, come on, mary, if this is a gag. Holy mackerel. What is this, a kennel?
[12:42]
Doreen Dimple
Just temporarily. This is angel, and this is spartan. They won best of show at the kennel club yesterday.
[12:47]
Philip Marlowe
Well, what are they going to do today, use me for a bone?
[12:49]
Doreen Dimple
No, they don't mean you any harm. You're just new to them. That's what.
[12:52]
Philip Marlowe
Barking. Well, I think I'll stay new to them and also away. Come on.
[12:56]
Doreen Dimple
All right.
[12:59]
Philip Marlowe
Where did you get those undersized oxen?
[13:01]
Doreen Dimple
Mary, I found them.
[13:02]
Philip Marlowe
Found them? How did you miss them?
[13:03]
Doreen Dimple
Well, I did find them. They ran away from the lawrence estate, and linda lawrence is coming for them any minute now.
[13:08]
Philip Marlowe
Linda lawrence? Isn't she the niece of marilyn lawrence who was murdered last night?
[13:12]
Doreen Dimple
Yeah, yeah, she is. I called her when I found the dogs. According to their tags, marilyn lawrence owned them.
[13:17]
Philip Marlowe
Oh.
[13:18]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, this must be she now.
[13:19]
Philip Marlowe
Will you excuse me, Mary? Do I look all right?
[13:22]
Doreen Dimple
She is here to see the dog.
[13:24]
Philip Marlowe
Ouch.
[13:25]
Doreen Dimple
Ms. Wesley. Oh, yes, yes, of course. And you're Ms. Lawrence, aren't you? Won't you come in? Thank you. This is my sister, Beatrice. Oh, how do you do? How do you do? The dogs are all right, I trust, Ms. Wesley? They certainly are quite all right. Oh, I hope they didn't frighten you when you found them. You see, they bark terribly whenever they see someone for the first time, but they're not vicious. Linda, let's get the dogs and get out of here. Beatrice, please. Ms. Wesley was kind enough to pick up the dogs when they ran away. Oh, really, Linda. You forgive Beatrice, Ms. Wesley. She's perfectly all right. I'm sure that your sister has been terribly upset about the dogs. Yes, those stupid animals are nothing but a nuisance. Oh, I'm sorry, Ms. Wesley. We thought you were alone.
[14:03]
Philip Marlowe
I'm the one who's alone.
[14:04]
Doreen Dimple
All right, all right. This is Linda and Beatrice Lawrence and Mr. Boston Blackie. How do you do?
[14:11]
Philip Marlowe
How do you do?
[14:12]
Doreen Dimple
The Boston Blackie?
[14:14]
Philip Marlowe
There aren't two of us, you see. The law allows only one of us at a time.
[14:17]
Doreen Dimple
Linda, I insist that we get those pool dogs and leave for home at once. Just a minute, Beatrice. Isn't often that anyone gets to meet Boston Blackie. And now with what happened to Aunt Marilyn. Linda, will you do as I say? In a minute, Beatrice. Ms. Lawrence, are you suggesting that Blackie solve your aunt's murder? Well, I. I'd like to ask him to try. We came to collect the dogs, not hire a detective.
[14:38]
Philip Marlowe
I'm not a detective.
[14:39]
Doreen Dimple
Ms. Lawrence slandered you certainly can be of no help to us. Now, Ms. Wesley, if you'll just give us the. Just a minute, Beatrice. I know you're not a detective, Blackie, but you've helped the police so many times. Couldn't you help them this time? Linda, for the last time, what's the matter, Ms. Lawrence?
[14:54]
Philip Marlowe
Are you afraid of an investigation that.
[14:57]
Doreen Dimple
Doesn'T enter into it?
[14:58]
Philip Marlowe
But it might if I enter into the case, is that it?
[15:01]
Doreen Dimple
Linda, if we don't leave this instant, I'm leaving without you. All right, Beatrice, we'll go.
[15:05]
Philip Marlowe
Linda, you don't mind if I call you Linda, I hope?
[15:08]
Doreen Dimple
Of course not.
[15:09]
Philip Marlowe
And you won't mind if I call at your home tonight, I'm sure.
[15:13]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, and you'll try and find out who killed my aunt?
[15:16]
Philip Marlowe
Yes. And maybe I can make the murderer say uncle.
[15:29]
Doreen Dimple
Good girl, Angel. Good girl. Now, lie quietly, Spartan. I know you miss Aunt Merrilyn. So do I. Hi. Hello, Beatrice. Did you have a nice nap? No, I didn't even Close my eyes. Oh, must these stupid animals always clutter up the library? Well, Aunt Marilyn always allowed them in here. I don't see why. You don't see why. You don't see why? You had no right to ask Boston Blackley here tonight either, do you? I see why I should. He might help. He might help. Do you know what he'll do?
[15:57]
Philip Marlowe
What?
[15:58]
Doreen Dimple
He'll turn this house inside out. He'll open up our lives, make everything about us common knowledge. We'll be talked about in every street.
[16:04]
Philip Marlowe
Corner, Linda, in every home.
[16:06]
Doreen Dimple
You're a fool, Linda. A stupid, naive fool. Oh, fine, fine. All right, go ahead and cry. You got us into this mess, and now all you can do is cry about it. So cry. But go and cry somewhere else. Now on. Things are going to be different around here, Linda. I'm going to run through things. Linda. Linda, would you mind leaving? No, of course not. What have I done? Oh, shut up and leave me alone, will you? I've got a personal call to make.
[16:36]
Philip Marlowe
All right.
[16:36]
Doreen Dimple
I'll handle things around here from now on. And when I say from now on, I mean from right now on. Yes, I'll tend to things. I'll tend to everything.
[16:54]
Philip Marlowe
Hello?
[16:55]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Preston?
[16:56]
Philip Marlowe
Yes.
[16:56]
Doreen Dimple
This is Beatrice Lawrence.
[16:57]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, yes, Beatrice. How are you?
[16:59]
Doreen Dimple
Never mind the pleasantries. Listen to me. I want Aunt Marilyn's will settled right away.
[17:04]
Philip Marlowe
Well, I'm attending to that as fast as you can.
[17:05]
Doreen Dimple
You'll attend to it this afternoon. You'll be out here with it tonight. Your bank doesn't keep open nights, does it? But, Beatrice, you heard what I said. You'll be here ready to read that will tonight.
[17:16]
Philip Marlowe
I'll do my best.
[17:17]
Doreen Dimple
You'll do better than that. You'll be here. This house is about to be overrun with detectives and policemen and investigations. I want it stopped.
[17:24]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, now, Beatrice, there's nothing I can do about that.
[17:27]
Doreen Dimple
Well, you just think of something then. My sister invited Boston Blackie here tonight. The police are coming here again. I want them out of here. Do you understand? I want them out of here and I want them kept out. Come in.
[17:49]
Philip Marlowe
Good evening, Ms. Lawrence. Hey, don't let those dogs get me. Don't they know I'm a policeman? Maybe they don't believe it any more than I do. Hi, Paraday. Blackie. So you're here, too. One of those dogs barking at me first. Just because you're you. Faraday.
[18:02]
Doreen Dimple
Quiet, angel, quiet. Be still, Spot. Good boy.
[18:05]
Philip Marlowe
Good night. Where do they come from?
[18:07]
Doreen Dimple
They live here.
[18:08]
Philip Marlowe
Live here?
[18:09]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, that's right. You didn't see them. When you were here last night, did you inspect a Faraday? They were outside.
[18:13]
Philip Marlowe
And that's a good place for them. And a good place for you, too, Blackie. With you inside, outside is a good place to be. And you'd better stay inside. Faraday, Ms. Lawrence knows a lot about animals. Maybe she could teach you to think. And I wish somebody could teach me how to get rid of you. Well, what would you do for a head if you got rid of me? You'll find out you've got a head, Frankie, because in a few minutes you're gonna land on it.
[18:31]
Doreen Dimple
Please, you probably disturb my sister Beatrice. She's upstairs trying to sleep.
[18:35]
Philip Marlowe
Sorry, Linda.
[18:35]
Doreen Dimple
Yeah, sorry, Blackie. You were asking me some questions before the inspector came in. Had you finished?
[18:41]
Philip Marlowe
I had. Wait just a minute. I'll ask the questions around here. I have only one more. Parody. Linda, has anyone special come to see you since your aunt's death?
[18:51]
Doreen Dimple
What do you mean by special?
[18:52]
Philip Marlowe
Well, someone who's, well, never been here before.
[18:56]
Doreen Dimple
Well, there's Henry Ellington. He wanted to buy the two dogs.
[18:59]
Philip Marlowe
Hey, what are those dogs barking at?
[19:01]
Doreen Dimple
Now, quiet. Quiet. Angel. Nice boy. Now, quiet.
[19:04]
Philip Marlowe
It seems to me that they were barking at the name Ellington.
[19:09]
Doreen Dimple
Quiet, both of you. I'm ashamed of you. Both of you, quiet.
[19:12]
Philip Marlowe
Hey, I have a hunch when your aunt Marilyn's body was found, the dogs were with her. I think the dogs were with her when she was killed, too.
[19:18]
Doreen Dimple
They were, Blackie. They were always with her.
[19:20]
Philip Marlowe
So what? So they saw a killer. And maybe they're trying to, well, sort of tell us something with all this barking. Maybe Ellington. Look, I said that name again, and the dog's trying to talk. I mean, talk.
[19:33]
Doreen Dimple
Angel.
[19:34]
Philip Marlowe
Spot.
[19:34]
Doreen Dimple
Quiet. Will you keep quiet?
[19:36]
Philip Marlowe
Now, I don't know what you think about this parody, but unless those dogs are barking up the wrong tree, they've got Mr. Ellington out of limb. And now back to Boston Blackie. Wealthy Marilyn Lawrence, owner of angel and Spartan champion boxers, is murdered. But there is no motive for her murder or clue to who killed her. Her two dogs were with her when she was killed and seemed to have a particular dislike for Henry Ellington, who wanted to buy them for Mrs. Lawrence. As we return to our story, Blackie walks into Mr. Ellington's kennel yard. All right, now you jump that fence, blast you. Hey, what are you doing there, Ellington? Who are you? I'm Boston Blackie. Do you mind? I object to your sneaking into my kennel yard like this. I didn't sneak in. I walked in like this. What are you doing? Something you probably wouldn't understand. Trying to make this idiotic whippet jump that fence. Now jump, you stupid fool, jump. Maybe it'd feel more like jumping if you didn't hit him with that whip. Maybe you'd like to mind your own business. Maybe, but I find out more minding other people's. I think you'd better leave. Not until I found out what I want to know about Merlin Lawrence's death. Her dogs were with her when she was killed. Yes, I imagine they were. She had them with her all the time. Yes. So you agree. They undoubtedly saw her killer. I imagine. Now, what's that to me, Ellington? Those dogs seem to dislike you intensely. How interesting. It's very interesting. Every time they hear your name, they bark their heads off. I think they're trying to tell me something about you. Too bad they can't talk, eh? Will you leave? I'm busy now, you stupid animal. I want to see you jump. Just a minute. Just a minute. You'll never get anywhere with a dog if you do that. Whipping is the only way to get sense into some heads. Will you please leave? Not until I found out what I want to know. Maybe you want a taste of this whip. You shouldn't have done that, Ellington. I don't like whips that close to my face. Oh, let go my arm. As soon as you let go of that whip. Give it to me. All right, all right, you can have it. Good. You like to crack a whip, do you, Ellington? Well, let's see how you like it when I crack this case. Excuse me, miss, but where will I find Mr. Preston's office?
[22:21]
Doreen Dimple
Which Mr. Preston, sir? There are two Mr. Prestons in this bank.
[22:26]
Philip Marlowe
I want Harold Preston.
[22:28]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Harold Preston is the third door to the left at the rear of the bank, sir.
[22:33]
Philip Marlowe
Thank you.
[22:34]
Doreen Dimple
You're welcome, Sir.
[22:39]
Philip Marlowe
Come in. Mr. Preston?
[22:42]
Boston Blackie
Yes.
[22:43]
Philip Marlowe
Mr. Preston, I'm Boston Blackie. I'm doing a little investigating into the murder of Mrs. Merlin Lawrence. Oh, I see. Well, what. What can I do for you? Well, there were apparently no witnesses to Mrs. Lawrence's death, but angel and Spartan, her two boxer dogs. And. And, well, dogs can't talk, even if they are champions. I thought maybe you could give me some of the information. No. Well, yes, of course. I was. Told me that you were Mrs. Lawrence's advisor. Is that right? Oh, yes, yes. And now I'm the. I'm the estate's advisor. But how. How can that be of any help to you? Well, as Mrs. Lawrence's advisor, you knew a Lot about her affairs. And about her two nieces, I imagine. Well, yes. When you went to home on business, was there ever anyone else there for that? I'm afraid I wouldn't know. I've never been there. Mrs. Lawrence preferred to discuss her business affairs here in my office. That's reasonable. Tell me just one more thing. Did Mrs. Lawrence leave a lot of money? Um. A million dollars. And which of the nieces inherits? Linda or Beatrice? Well, both receive an equal share. A half a million apiece. Not bad for a couple of young men. Well, they really don't receive it in cash, if you must know. It's really left for me to invest for them. Oh, and what do you get out of this? Friendship? No, no, a. A 10% fee. And it's all in Mrs. Lawrence's will. If you're beginning to get any ideas about me. You look like a man who gets ideas of his own, Mr. Preston. Even 10% of a million dollars is a lot of money. Well, I. I don't think I have to allow you to insult me at my own office, Blackie. Perhaps you'd better leave. After you've told me a little bit more about yourself, I think you'd better leave. Oh, but we're just having such a nice chat here, it seems. Hey, that's an alarm bell. Is your bank being robbed? Oh, no. I started that bell by pressing a button under my desk. Oh. A man with a gun in his hand. Two men with two guns. Please forgive me, Blackie. There's nothing personal in this, but this is a bank. An action such as this is just precautionary. Never mind the plug for your bank, Mr. Preston. I opened an account elsewhere a long time ago. But before long, maybe I'll settle one with you. Nice dogs. Nice dogs. Should be a whole lot nicer if you could talk. Come in.
[25:33]
Doreen Dimple
Inspector Faraday, do you know where Blackie.
[25:35]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, hello, Ms. Wesley. Where's Blankie? I don't know, but my office isn't a missing persons bureau, inspector.
[25:40]
Doreen Dimple
He's been gone ever since.
[25:42]
Philip Marlowe
Oh.
[25:43]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, the nice dogs. What are they doing here?
[25:46]
Philip Marlowe
Same old thing, Ms. Wesley. Marking their jaws off every time I say Ellington.
[25:52]
Doreen Dimple
Why do they do that?
[25:53]
Philip Marlowe
Who knows? Blackie may be right. They're trying to say something. They saw Mrs. Lawrence's killer and they're trying to tell me what it is. I wish they could talk.
[26:02]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, but they can't. And I can't find Blackie.
[26:05]
Philip Marlowe
Don't worry. He'll show up before long. In fact, I think I know where he is out at the Lawrence mansion. He's trying to find out if. Excuse me.
[26:13]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, of course.
[26:14]
Philip Marlowe
Faraday speaking. Inspector, this is Blackie Blackett. Where are you? Ms. Wesley's here, worried sick about you.
[26:20]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Inspector, if that is Blackie, please let me talk to you.
[26:23]
Philip Marlowe
Just a minute. Where have you been, Blackie? Just checking on something. What? Oh, Ellington. Yes, I've seen him. And somebody ought to grind him into dog feed. Except I don't think the dogs would have any part of him. Look, I found out a few very important things. What? Linda and Beatrice Lawrence inherit a million bucks from their aunt Marilyn. You think they killed her? I thought Ellington was our man. That's why the dogs hate him. Oh, never mind that now. You and Mary meet me at the Lawrence mansion as soon as you can and I'll tell you all about it. Okay, that won't take long. But why can't you tell me all about it down here? Because it'll be easier up here. Where's up here? At the Lawrence mansion. Ellington is going to be here, and Preston from the bank is going to read Mrs. Lawrence's will. But I want you and Mary to get here before they do. Okay, Ms. Wesley and I will be out right away. And I'll bring angel and Spartan too, For a change, the dogs are going to you. Clarity. What did you do to those dogs when you had them in your office? Nothing. But look at them blanky and wish I could understand bark language. Well, everybody's here but Preston, Mary, Linda, Faraday, and you, Ellington. For the time being, I'm gonna have to give you a new name. I'll keep the one I have, thanks. Oh, yeah. Blackie, everybody's here but Preston and. What's her name? Beatrice. Where is your sister, Ms. Lawrence?
[27:55]
Doreen Dimple
Beatrice is in bed asleep. She hasn't felt very well since aunt Marilyn's death.
[28:00]
Philip Marlowe
Well, you know, we want her down here, too. We'll wait till Preston gets here before we ask Beatrice to come down Friday.
[28:06]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, that's probably Mr. Preston now.
[28:08]
Philip Marlowe
Good.
[28:08]
Doreen Dimple
Come in.
[28:10]
Philip Marlowe
Good evening, everyone.
[28:11]
Doreen Dimple
Hello, Mr. Preston. Do you know everyone here?
[28:14]
Philip Marlowe
No, no, I don't think so.
[28:15]
Doreen Dimple
Well, I'll introduce you around.
[28:17]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, Blackie, I know. Hello, Blackie. Come on, Preston.
[28:20]
Doreen Dimple
Well, the rest are missing. Wesley.
[28:22]
Philip Marlowe
Hi, Wesley. How are you? Very happy.
[28:23]
Doreen Dimple
And this is inspector Faraday.
[28:25]
Philip Marlowe
How are you, too?
[28:26]
Doreen Dimple
And this is Mr. Wellington.
[28:29]
Philip Marlowe
Good heavens, what are the dogs barking about all of a sudden? As they seem to bark every time they hear my name. That's odd. I'll tell you something stranger than that Mr. Preston. Oh, yes. You told me in your office you'd never been in this house. Yes, that's right. Did you hear that, Friday? Yeah.
[28:46]
Boston Blackie
Well, did.
[28:47]
Philip Marlowe
You failed to hear something a minute ago? Hey, that's right. The dogs didn't bark.
[28:52]
Boston Blackie
Right.
[28:52]
Philip Marlowe
And get this, Faraday. By his own admission, Preston here says this is the first time he's been in this house. Oh, and that has some meaning. I. I don't understand. I understand, Preston. It has a lot of meaning. It means you killed Mrs. Lawrence.
[29:04]
Doreen Dimple
Down, angel, down. Spartan, quiet. Quiet.
[29:06]
Philip Marlowe
What makes you think Preston killed him? He doesn't know what he's talking about. He absolutely. Oh, those dogs know what I'm talking about. If Linda can't stop pretty soon, they'll break their chains. They hold them, Linda.
[29:16]
Doreen Dimple
I'm doing my best.
[29:17]
Philip Marlowe
Don't let them get loose. They can chew a man to stop.
[29:19]
Doreen Dimple
It ain't. Go. Down. Down, Spartan, get down. Oh, there's no stopping them. Help, someone.
[29:25]
Philip Marlowe
Mary, get out of here.
[29:26]
Doreen Dimple
You're gonna break loose.
[29:26]
Philip Marlowe
No, no, don't, don't, don't, don't let them get me. Don't, please.
[29:30]
Doreen Dimple
I can't keep them from jumping.
[29:31]
Philip Marlowe
No. Stop them. I'll tell. Keep those dogs away from me.
[29:35]
Doreen Dimple
Get down.
[29:36]
Philip Marlowe
For you. I killed her. I admit it. Keep those dogs away. They are. Faraday. There's a confession. Now let's get him to headquarters before those dogs tear him to pieces. Mary, did you read in the paper this morning where Preston made a full confession to parody?
[29:59]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, Blackie, but I didn't get to finish it. Just why did he kill her?
[30:03]
Philip Marlowe
Well, he needed that 10% he'd get for investing the million dollar inheritance. He was almost 90,000 short with his bank.
[30:11]
Doreen Dimple
Ooh, that's a lot of money too. That's what you were checking all those hours that I thought you disappeared.
[30:18]
Boston Blackie
Uh huh.
[30:19]
Philip Marlowe
And believe me, it was some job.
[30:21]
Doreen Dimple
I'll bet it was, darling. But just think, Blackie, if Mr. Preston had admitted that he'd been in Mrs. Lawrence's house before, you could never have proved that he killed her.
[30:32]
Philip Marlowe
I know that, Mary, but he had to say that he'd never been there before because.
[30:36]
Doreen Dimple
Why?
[30:37]
Philip Marlowe
Well, if he'd said he had been at the Lawrence home before, he'd have become. Well, we'd have become suspicious because Linda Beatrice would have made a liar out of him.
[30:47]
Doreen Dimple
And instead the dogs made a liar out of him, didn't they? You know, apparently they just barked at the name Ellington because they knew that Ellington hated dogs.
[30:55]
Philip Marlowe
That's probably right. Well, those two boxes certainly gave Preston a knockout punch. You know, while we were working on this case, we thought those dogs were trying to say something by barking. But when Preston walked into that room, they called him a killer without opening their mouths. The makers of clipper craft clothes for men and 924 leading retail stores from coast to coast present the world's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Here we are once again on the threshold of a well remembered room. Lamplight streams across the handsome bindings of a cherished and well read life. The fragrance of a bowl of ruddy apples fills the air. In a comfortable worn leather armchair sits our old friend and favorite raconteur, the genial Dr. Watson. Come in, Mr. Harris, come in and welcome. Welcome to you and all our host of radio friends. You look as if your summer vacation had been a huge success, Doctor. Oh, it was indeed. I've taken off a bit of weight, don't you think? Absolutely. How did you do it? Oh, helping Holmes look after his blasted bees. Mary and I were down in Sussex for a month this summer. You know, I had no idea beekeeping was so strenuous, Doctor. Well, it wasn't that so much as the fact that I was jolly well stunned on the lip by a rampant queen. In consequence, I was obliged to partake of a liquid diet for one entire week. But that's enough about me. Suppose we get onto the person I'm sure our listeners are most anxious to hear about. The world's greatest consulting detective by his own admission, Mr. Sherlock Holmes. And which of his adventures are we to have this evening, Doctor? Well, suppose I relate the case of the dog who changed his mind. It concerns a fabulous bottle of ancestral brandy and an old woman whose murder benefited no one but a famous society of wine tasters. Sounds promising. But before we become further involved, don't you think this is a good time to mention the gentleman whose courtesy, not to say cheque books have made this winter series of broadcasts possible? A very sound idea, Dr. Watson, for our listeners should know all there is to know about Clipper craft clothes. As millions of men have discovered, they're just about the most amazing clothes values you've ever seen. And as you well know, there's a why and a wherefore for everything. In this case, it's the famous clipper craft plan. By concentrating the buying power of 924 leading stores from coast to coast, you get all the advantages of steady year round operation. All the savings in manufacturing and distribution costs. It gives you the benefits of Group buying plus the friendly personal attention you expect at the leading store in your community. At the store you can trust. And it doesn't take a Sherlock Holmes to discover that Clippercraft values are second to none. You can buy expensive looking Clipper Craft suits at only $35 and $40, with a few deluxe models at $43.75. You can buy Clipper Craft topcoats and overcoats at only 30 to $40 and sport jackets at only $24. Believe me, this is your clue to clothes satisfaction this fall. Simply compare Clippercraft with clothes selling for many dollars more. Now, Dr. Watson, what about the case of the dog who changed his mind right home. Yes, let me see. It was. It was in the good old Baker street days, a rather gloomy day in late October to be exact. We had breakfasted late in front of a sea coal fire. With my body in one easy chair and my legs upon another, I sat listening with growing irritation to Holmes as he practiced interminable scales, roulades, glissandos and what have you on his violin. At last a particularly screeching dissonance was more than my frazzled nerves could bear. Holmes, must you do that? Calm yourself, my dear Watson. I was not responsible for that last bit of cacophony. It was caused by the scraping of a carriage wheel against our curbstones. I rather think we're about to receive a client. A lady, rather slight and agitated. How can you possibly tell? You haven't even bothered to look out of the window. My ears, Watson, are nearly as well trained as my eyes. The infinitesimal creak of the carriage springs as its passenger descended to the pavement indicate a slender person. The tap of French heels indicate a lady. The quickness of her step indicates that she's agitated. Yes, decidedly agitated. You are Ms. S.A. holmes, you have ears like a hawk. Your metaphor is a trifle mixed, my dear Watson, but I accept your tribute. Come in.
[36:28]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Holmes.
[36:29]
Philip Marlowe
Mr. Sherlock Holmes, naturally. This is my friend and colleague, Dr. Watson. How do you do?
[36:35]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, thank heavens you're at home. You must come at once. Mr. Holmes, she's been murdered. I know she has. And they'll blame Reggie. Dr. Tillinghurst has sent for Scotland Yard. Oh, Mr. Holmes, can't you do something?
[36:46]
Philip Marlowe
My dear young lady, I can do a great many things, but not until you could give us a coherent account of your difficulty.
[36:52]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, I'm so sorry. I have made a fool of myself. But the whole thing is so impossible. You see, she'd never commit suicide. Even at 89 she enjoyed life tremendously and no one could have killed her because she was alone with the door bolted from the inside.
[37:08]
Philip Marlowe
Who is this remarkable old lady and why should anyone want to kill her?
[37:11]
Doreen Dimple
She. She was Lady Blenkinsop. But who in the world would want to harm her? Oh, I'll admit she was eccentric and difficult at times. You know the French, Mr. Holmes. But it didn't frighten anyone. Not even Bobo.
[37:24]
Philip Marlowe
Bobo?
[37:25]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Bobo is her pug dog. Terribly spoiled, but devoted. And funny too. It was always with her, sitting on her lap or sleeping at the foot of her bed. Poor little thing. That's where we found him this morning when we broke in the door. Just stood there barking at the noise we made and wagging his tail at Dr. Tillinghurst.
[37:44]
Philip Marlowe
Why did you break in the door?
[37:46]
Doreen Dimple
Because it was still locked when Potters, he's the butler, brought up Lady Blenkinsop's early tea. She always locked herself in at night. Didn't want anyone to catch sight of her without her curls, I suspect.
[37:57]
Philip Marlowe
But this morning was different, I gather?
[37:58]
Doreen Dimple
Oh yes, Mr. Holmes. I made her tea and a bit of toast at 9:30. You see, I'm her companion. But I do cook her breakfast and fix her a bit of lunch. There's a charwoman who comes in to do the heavy cleaning and cooks dinners and Potters attends to the rest of the house.
[38:14]
Philip Marlowe
Rather a meager domestic stuff for a person of Lady Blenkinsop standing, eh? What, is she hard up for funds?
[38:19]
Doreen Dimple
Oh no, I believe she's quite well off. Her own money too. Of course. The Blenkinsop estates went to Reggie when Lady Blenkinsop's husband died. He inherited the title too.
[38:29]
Philip Marlowe
Creating a certain amount of friction between the old lady and her nephew, no doubt.
[38:33]
Doreen Dimple
Oh no, Dr. Watson. They were divine devoted to each other. Not that they didn't squabble now and then. Like last night when Veggie stamped out of the house when she took her birthday brandy up to bed with her unopened. Without offering him a drink.
[38:46]
Philip Marlowe
Surely he could drop round to his club if he wanted a nightcap.
[38:49]
Doreen Dimple
You don't understand. Lady Blenkinsop's birthday brandy is very special. We've always looked forward to it. But this being the last bottle, I imagine she wanted to save it. Yesterday was her birthday, you see, and I baked her a birthday present.
[39:03]
Philip Marlowe
What happened last night is not what brought you here.
[39:05]
Doreen Dimple
Oh no, last night was fun. Just Reggie and myself and Lady Blenkinsop and Potter's of course. She always gave him A piece of the cake too. It was all so gay this morning was horrible.
[39:17]
Philip Marlowe
Right from the time you woke up?
[39:19]
Doreen Dimple
No, as a matter of fact, Potters was whistling when I gave him her tray to take up.
[39:29]
Philip Marlowe
Here.
[39:29]
Doreen Dimple
Here's Lady Blenkinsop's tray, Potters.
[39:31]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, morning, Miss Kitty. A bit late this morning, aren't we?
[39:35]
Doreen Dimple
A bit. I overslept, but it's all right, I hope. I imagine Lady Blenkinsop overslept too, after last night's excitement.
[39:42]
Philip Marlowe
I wouldn't count on it. She's a great one, her ladyship is. Next year she'll be 90. And here she is as bright and sassy as the day his Lordship brought her here. A bride from France. I'll never forget her driving up in the carriage surrounded with all those cases of brandy. Brought them over from France, she had said. Her father had sent them along so she'd have something fit to drink on her birthdays. At least there were so many bottles I thought she'd never live to drink the last. But there's no more left, Miss Kitty. That one she took upstairs is the end. She always felt when that brandy was gone, she'd be gone too.
[40:21]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, nonsense, Potter. That's just superstition. Here, you'd better take her tea up before it gets cold or she'll snatch you bald headed.
[40:30]
Philip Marlowe
And how could she do that when it's Bald? I've been 30 years now. Oh, Miss Kitty. There's the front door.
[40:37]
Doreen Dimple
It's all right, Potters, I'll answer it. Oh, Dr. Tillinghurst. Good morning.
[40:45]
Philip Marlowe
Good morning, Miss Kitty. Started to rain. I'll just leave my umbrella here in the stand. How's Lady Blenkinsop this morning?
[40:55]
Doreen Dimple
I don't really know. I've just sent her tray up. I think she may have slept later than usual. Yesterday was her birthday, you know.
[41:02]
Philip Marlowe
That's exactly why I dropped by. Thought she might have overdone it a bit. Can't be too careful at her age. Thought I'd like to listen to her heart.
[41:10]
Doreen Dimple
I'll go up and announce you.
[41:11]
Philip Marlowe
Good girl. I don't know what she pays you, but whatever it is, it's not enough.
[41:16]
Doreen Dimple
I do all right. Besides, I enjoy my work here. She's really lots of fun and doesn't.
[41:21]
Philip Marlowe
Give you much time to yourself, I imagine. Hello. What's wrong with Potters? He's still standing outside the door.
[41:29]
Doreen Dimple
What's the matter, Potters?
[41:31]
Philip Marlowe
I've knocked and I've not, but she doesn't say come in. Well, go in anyway. I can't. The door's still bolted.
[41:37]
Doreen Dimple
Let me try. Lady Blenkinsop. Lady Blenkinsop, are you awake?
[41:45]
Philip Marlowe
That's Bobo, he's heard us.
[41:47]
Doreen Dimple
But why doesn't Lady Blenkinsop answer? Open the door. Please open the door.
[41:53]
Philip Marlowe
I think we better force the door. Come on, Potters, help me. Yes, sir. We'll use this heavy chair. Steady now. One and two and. Easy, Bobo. Easy, easy, easy, easy. It's all right, old fellow.
[42:10]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, she's still asleep. But she's so white. Oh, Dr. Tillinghurst, I'm frightened.
[42:18]
Philip Marlowe
I'll have a look at her. Where's my stethoscope? No pulse, pupils contracted. Miss Kitty, look there on the bed table. She did open the brandy bottle after all. Don't touch anything. Everything must be left exactly as it is. But Dr. Tillinghurst, Lady Blenkinsop is dead. Poisoned. Oh, no. Potters, go for the police. Tell them Lady Blankensopolit's committed suicide. Tell them to inform Scotland Yard.
[42:44]
Doreen Dimple
But she wouldn't do that. I know she wouldn't.
[42:46]
Philip Marlowe
Kitty, I want you to go to the nearest apothecary's. I shall want some things. We shall have to make some tests. Meantime, I'll try to fasten this door. No one is to be allowed in here. No one. Come on, Bobo, Come on. Come on, it's a good boy.
[43:07]
Doreen Dimple
But she didn't kill herself, Mr. Holmes. I know she didn't. She was terrified of death.
[43:11]
Philip Marlowe
Then someone else must have poisoned her. You did say she was poisoned?
[43:15]
Doreen Dimple
Dr. Tillinghurst seemed to think so. But who could have done it? No one could have got into the room. The door was barred on the inside. So were all the shutters. I noticed particularly.
[43:25]
Philip Marlowe
Could anyone have been hidden somewhere in the room before she went upstairs?
[43:28]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, no. I looked under the bed and the dressing table. She always made me do that when I brought her up to bed. She was terrified of the dark, you see. No, she was quite alone when she met her death.
[43:40]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe she took an overdose of something by accident. Maybe the brandy was poisoned. Maybe she had a secret sorrow. Watson, I abhor guessing games. I prefer facts. Get your overcoat while I summon a four wheeler. It's vital we reach Lady Blenkinsop's house before Scotland Yard has had a chance to muck up the clues. You say that Lady Blenkinsop was French. You don't happen to know her family name?
[44:08]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, Mr. Holmes, it was Defezinac. Her father was a count.
[44:12]
Philip Marlowe
Defesinac. No wonder her Bridal brandy was rather special, eh Watsonac? Defesenec. Sounds vaguely familiar. Can't say I place it. However, the Defesinacs are a branch, I might say the main trunk of the great house of Armagnac, from which the the name of the brandy is derived. By Jove, of course.
[44:30]
Doreen Dimple
I do remember Lady Blenkinsop going on about her family's vineyards. It seems it was customary for every daughter of the house to take with her as part of her dowry, half a dozen cases of the brandy that was bottled the year of her birth. Lady Blenkinsop always boasted that hers was a particularly fine year. She opened a bottle every birthday.
[44:50]
Philip Marlowe
Half a dozen cases. Let's see, that's 72 bottles. Lady Blenkinsop was 87. By Jove, that means she was 17 when she was married. All of which has no bearing on the case whatsoever. Never clutter up the mind with non essentials Watson. That's your weakness. Well who's to decide what's essential in a case like this? I am. Tell me, Miss Kitty, who benefits by Lady Blenkinsop's death?
[45:12]
Doreen Dimple
Benefits? Why no one. Goodness, no one ever wanted her to die, I'm sure. We were all much too fond of her.
[45:20]
Philip Marlowe
Let me put it this way then. Who inherits Lady Blenkinsop's money? Her nephew, I suppose. And you and Potters have been left a small legacy no doubt.
[45:28]
Doreen Dimple
Gracious no, Mr. Holmes. Lady Blenkinsop's last will leaves everything to a French society of wine tasters, the Chevalier de Vendage on Sien.
[45:37]
Philip Marlowe
The Knights of the Ancient vintages go to the head of the class, Watson.
[45:40]
Doreen Dimple
It's for the improvement of the French wine industry.
[45:43]
Philip Marlowe
You see, you said. How last will. How long ago did she make it?
[45:47]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, about eight months ago, Mr. Holmes.
[45:49]
Philip Marlowe
Who was her heir before that?
[45:51]
Doreen Dimple
Why Reggie of course. But you mustn't draw any wrong conclusions about that, Mr. Holmes. Reggie didn't need the money. Why he's plenty of his own.
[46:00]
Philip Marlowe
Really.
[46:01]
Doreen Dimple
They were very devoted to each other. They just, well, they just didn't always see eye to eye about certain subjects.
[46:10]
Philip Marlowe
For instance?
[46:11]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, I don't know. Reggie didn't approve of Bobo being fed sweetmeats. They had terrific squabbles about things like that.
[46:19]
Philip Marlowe
What exactly was the squabble that caused Lady Blenkinsop to change her will?
[46:23]
Doreen Dimple
It was all so silly really. A tempest in a teapot. It didn't mean a thing.
[46:27]
Philip Marlowe
What didn't mean a thing?
[46:28]
Doreen Dimple
He's holding my hand, Reggie. I mean he Just happened to have handed me the morning mail and he, well, he just forgot to let go.
[46:37]
Philip Marlowe
Lady Blenkinsop didn't approve, I take it.
[46:39]
Doreen Dimple
She was always afraid he would make what she called an unsuitable alliance.
[46:44]
Philip Marlowe
The French point of view, of course, eh, Holmes? Not entirely. How did Reggie react?
[46:48]
Doreen Dimple
He was furious. He said when he married it would be when and how and to whom. He dashed well pleased.
[46:54]
Philip Marlowe
Bully for him.
[46:55]
Doreen Dimple
But it's all so ridiculous. You see, Reggie never showed any interest in me before or since.
[47:02]
Philip Marlowe
Pity, eh, Holmes?
[47:03]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, here we are. This is Lady Blenkinsop's house.
[47:06]
Philip Marlowe
Gloomy old mausoleum, eh, Holmes? Hop out, Watson, and ring the doorbell. That's a good chap.
[47:11]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, that won't be necessary, Mr. Holmes. I have a key.
[47:24]
Philip Marlowe
Ah, I gather Scotland Yard is here before us.
[47:27]
Doreen Dimple
How can you tell?
[47:27]
Philip Marlowe
Mrs. Holmes, unless I'm very much mistaken, that's Inspector Lestrade's official umbrella still dripping on the vestibule floor. Perhaps we are not too late after all. Oh, Miss Kitty, I'm so glad you've come back. I just brought the gentleman from Scotland Yard. He's in the reception room. Well, well, if it isn't Inspector Lestrade, the watchdog of Scotland Yard. Holmes, what in blazes are you doing here? My usual occupation, investigating a crime. There's no crime this time, Holmes. Lady dies, poisoned, they tell me. Absolutely alone she is. Doors and windows locked tight on the inside. Clear case of suicide. The Scotland Yard method reductio ad absurdum. And what's wrong with that? Whatever it is, personally I prefer to review the facts Dr. Tillinghurst says. Will you be kind enough to come upstairs, gentlemen? He's waiting outside her Ladyship's door.
[48:16]
Doreen Dimple
We'll be right up. Thank you, Potters.
[48:22]
Philip Marlowe
Great Scott. What's that unearthly racket? It's Bobo, her ladyship's dog. Dr. Tillinger says he's been carrying on like that on her threshold ever since he took him out of the room and closed the door.
[48:34]
Doreen Dimple
Bobo, don't. Oh, stop him. Somebody he knows.
[48:39]
Philip Marlowe
She's lying there dead. Poor little creature.
[48:42]
Doreen Dimple
Can't you make him stop, Dr. Tillinghast? He's always been so fond of you.
[48:46]
Philip Marlowe
Make him stop. He won't even let me near the door. Nice Bobo. Be a good dog. There, you see.
[48:53]
Doreen Dimple
I'm sorry. Dr. Tillinghurst, this is Mr. Sherlock Holmes.
[48:57]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, how do you do, sir? How do you do? Suppose we allow Scotland Yard to handle the situation. Do you want to have Nan taken over by a vicious brute?
[49:04]
Doreen Dimple
No thanks, but he's not vicious. At least he never was before.
[49:07]
Philip Marlowe
Very well, I'll take over. Mr. Sherlock Holmes to the rescue. That's enough, Bobo. We know how you feel. That's right. Quiet down. Well now, look at that. He's crawling over to him. He's letting himself be picked up. He's licking his ear. Wanted to tell me something, is that it? Yes, I understand. I understand very well, old fellow. Now, Dr. Tillinghurst, the inspector and I will see if we can get to the bottom of this mystery. That's no mystery to me, Holmes. That's what you think, my dear Lestrade, that's what you think. Now if you'll follow me, gentlemen, this will be rather unpleasant. Miss Kitty, you'd better remain outside. You see, Inspector Lestrad, the pupils are definitely contracted, face pale, extremities cyanotic. Right you are, Dr. Tyrangus. It's poison all right, but which one? We won't know until we've made tests. Of course. I sent Miss Kitty out for a solution of ferric chloride. If it's opium or one of its derivatives, as I suspect that should do the trick. Dr. Tillinghurst, were you in the habit of prescribing opium or any of the other somniferous poisons for Lady Blenkinsop? Certainly not. I say, Holmes, look here, the brandy bottle has been tipped over. All the brandy's run out on the carpet. Poor Lady Blanketsop. She always said she'd die when the brandy was gone and now it is, and so is she. Oh, that'll do, Potters. We've no time for idle superstition. Yes, sir, Trust me, it's a plot. Whoever spilled the brandy knew it had been poisoned. Didn't want to leave any about to be tested. The brandy was not poisoned, Watson. Here, notice the wax that sealed the cork. That wax was melted over that cork when Lady Blenkinsop was a girl. She herself removed it last night after she'd locked her door when she was by herself. Well, at least she did have a drink of it on her birthday, poor old soul. And here it is now, seeped into the carpet. What a dreadful waste. You say she never took a sedative, Dr. Tillinghast, or a painkiller of any sort? That she did, sir. A bit of laudanum when she got a toothache.
[51:23]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, yeah, of course.
[51:25]
Philip Marlowe
I did prescribe laudanum a year or so ago. Christmas it was, I think. Yes, when she develops an ache in a lower bicuspid. Did Lady Blenkinsop suffer From frequent toothache potters? Only when she was excited, sir. Like holidays, birthdays and now and then when she bet on a horse. Then yesterday being her birthday, she probably developed a toothache and took a dose of laudanum before retiring. Of course, that explains it all. Laudanum is an opium derivative. She took an overdose, you know. I never could persuade her to be accurate. Her confounded Gallic temperament. Potters, do you know where she kept her medicines? Oh yes, sir. Top drawer of a dressing table. Oh yes, of course, I remember. Let's see. Yes, yes, here we are. Batley's Liquor. Op Sedativis. That's double strength laudanum. She must have bought this at the apothecary's herself and didn't realize it was at least four times as strong as the prescription I gave her. Doesn't take much of an overdose to turn the trick when you're 89. Well, Holmes, there you are. Now are you satisfied? A blinkage of accidental suicide by poison. I've never doubted that Lady Blenkinsop was doped, Lestrade, and quite probably by her own hand. But that's not what caused her death. No, Lestrade. Lady Blenkinsop was asphyxiated, strangled. The evidence is obvious. Really, Mr. Holmes, I'm astonished that a man of your reputation should be ignorant of the fact that the symptom of asphyxia and death by one of the somniferous poisons are almost identical. She's right, Holmes. Every doctor knows that. Besides, there's no sign of a struggle. If she'd been strangled, she'd have put up a fight. Not necessarily. If she'd been doped first. Tell me, Potters, was Lady Blenkinsop in the habit of wearing her pearls to bed? I see what you're driving at, Holmes. The pearls did it got caught around her neck and with all that laudanum in her she never realized they were strangling her. Wrong again, Lestrade. She was strangled not accidentally by her pearls, but intentionally by someone who saw her helpless condition and held a pillow or perhaps the bedclothes over her mouth until she stopped breathing. In fact, I strongly suspect she came too long enough to put out a hand and upset that bottle of brandy. Oh, imagination, Mr. Holmes, pure imagination. Really? Then how do you account for this lint up her nostrils? Well, I'll be. I never noticed. You didn't notice, Lestrade, because you didn't look. If you perform an autopsy, I've no doubt you'll find more bits of lint in her lungs lint from the very finest French linen. Lady Blankensop always bought her linens in France? Exactly. Oh, but this is preposterous. How did the chap get in to strangle her? Remember the doors and windows were still bolted tight when Dr. Tillingus and the others broke in this morning and found her dead. When the doctor said he found her dead. What's the difference? Why do you suppose he sent the rest of the household out of the house in such a hurry? Why? First, because he didn't want them to get a good look at her and realize she wasn't dead, only drugged. And second, and here comes the really diabolical part of the whole affair. Second, so he could come back quietly when the house was empty and finish her off. Ridiculous lot of lies. You can't prove a thing. No? Then why wasn't Bobo upset when you broke in this morning? Because he knew his mistress was still alive. Nonsense. Why did he later turn on you and offer to bite you? Because he'd seen you go back and kill his mistress? Of course, if you're going to put a dumb beast in the witness bar. And why is the brandy splashed on your shoes? That's not brandy, it's mud. I've been walking in the rain. Analysis will show what it is, Dr. Tillinghurst. Well, suppose it is brandy. I sometimes stop into a pub on a bad day for a brandy and soda. I may have spilled some on my boots. That's right, Holmes. What can we prove? Now, let's be insensible. What, what reason, what possible motive could I have for killing off one of my best patients? That's a fact, Holmes. No motive, no possible motive whatsoever. Would you consider a fabulous rope of pearls worth, say, eight or ten thousand pounds? Would you consider that sufficient motive, my dear Lestrade? But Lady Blenkinsop's pearls are still obviously on the body. Those are not the Blenkinsopp pearls, Lestrade. Eh? What? Oh, I'll admit they're very clever imitations. Yes. If you'll investigate that bulge in the doctor's upper left hand pocket, I think you may discover the genuine pearls. Watson, quick, don't let him get away. No, you don't. Stop or I'll feel you're full of lead. By Jove, I'm sorry, Holmes. I. I had no idea the blighter would make a bolt for it. Don't worry, Watson. I fancy Lestrade is still capable of handling the more rough and tumble side of apprehending criminals.
[56:07]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Mr. Holmes. Why, what happened I just saw Inspector Lestrade escorting Dr. Tillinghurst out of the front door in handcuffs. What does it mean?
[56:15]
Philip Marlowe
My dear Miss Kitty, it means that the criminal has yet to be born who can put anything over on Mr. Sherlock Holmes. A very entertaining story, Dr. Watson. Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it, Mr. Harris. Now, of course, there are one or two small matters that puzzle me. Why did Holmes say the dog had told him something when he picked him up? A very interesting question with a very interesting answer. I'll give it to you after you've said a few words about the excellent product that foots the bill for us. Right, Dr. Watson. When you can go to your favorite store and get the nation's most exciting clothes value, that's just good common sense. For the Clipper Craft plan is just another matter of simple logic so that you receive all the benefits of group purchasing. It concentrates the buying power of 924 leading stores across the country. It makes possible the nation's highest standard of clothes value brought to you at the leading independent store you really enjoy visiting and that enjoys serving you where you're a person, not just another number on a sales check. Now, bear in mind that Clipper Craft clothes are faultlessly tailored from luxurious long wearing fabrics that Clippercraft smart styles fit to custom perfection. Despite the fact that costs of materials and manufacturing are rising. There are new fall ClipperCraft suits at only 35 and $40. There are a few special models at 43.75. ClipperCraft topcoats and overcoats are only 30 to $40 and sport jackets only $24. Selling expensive clothes at inexpensive prices at the nation's finest stores is the great big idea behind the Clipper Craft plan. That's why men who know insist on Clippercraft clothes. So be sure to visit the Clippercraft store in your city. The leading stores in the metropolitan area that bring you Clipper Craft clothes are Saks, 34th Broadway at 34th Street, Manhattan, AB&Strauss, Brooklyn, the Boulevard Men's Shop, Kresge, Newark, Newark, New Jersey. And the B&B Clothes Shop, 16408 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica. These great courteous and friendly stores are proud to add their names to that of Clippercraft in the label of your suit, top coat, sports jacket and overcoat. And now for your question about Bobo, Mr. Harris. When Holmes picked up the dog, he was struck by the fact that his paws were wet. Wet with something that smelled suspiciously like brandy. Later, when he entered the death chamber and saw the overturned bottle he knew exactly what must have happened. I wonder if I'd have been that smart. One more thing, Dr. Watson. Yes, Mr. Harris? What story are you going to give us next week? Next week I think it'll be the case of the Missing Heiress or How very charming. A very hot headed Canadian girl disappeared from her carriage in full regalia on her way to be presented at court. The makers of Clipper craft clothes and 924 leading retail stores from coast to coast have brought you the first in a new series of broadcasts featuring the world's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. Sherlock Holmes is produced and directed by Basil Loughran. Our stories are written by Edith Miser with special music by Albert Berman. Holmes is played by John Stanley, Dr. Watson by Alfred Shirley. If you don't know your clipper craft dealer, write ClipperCraft, 200 Fifth Avenue, New York City. Be sure to listen again next week to Sherlock Holmes in the case of the Missing Heiress. If you wish to attend the Sherlock Holmes broadcasts in New York, see your local Clipper craft dealer and he'll tell you how to obtain tickets. This is Cy Harris speaking for Clipper Craft Clothes. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System. Stay with us for Melvin Elliott's report on the news which follows station identification. Fly Eastern Airlines new type Constellation service to Houston in only 5 hours and 50 minutes. For immediate reservations call Eastern Airlines or your travel agent wor the World Series station in New York.
[61:19]
Boston Blackie
A startled corpse, a blue eyed woman and a cryptic message scrawled by a dying man for the pieces of a Chinese puzzle. It wouldn't fit together until I found out what was deadly about the orange dog.
[61:31]
Philip Marlowe
From the pen of Raymond Chandler, outstanding author of crime fiction, comes his most famous character as CBS presents the Adventures of Philip Marlo. And now with Gerald Moore starred as Philip Marlow. We bring you tonight six exciting story. The Orange Dog.
[62:09]
Boston Blackie
By six in the evening of a very slow day, I'd resigned myself to the business of no business. So I took my feet down from my desk, switched off the lights and started out the door for home with the prospect of a nice quiet evening ahead of me. But I didn't make it even as far as the door. Oh, hello, Philip Marlow.
[62:32]
Philip Marlowe
Marlow.
[62:32]
Doreen Dimple
My name is Shelly Martin. I'm at 8412 Los Feliz, a private residence. I want you to come out here right away. My sister is in a jam, a nasty one.
[62:41]
Boston Blackie
Well, Ms. Martin, as a matter of fact I was just closing up for the night and I was.
[62:44]
Doreen Dimple
Thank you. I need the services of A private detective. Right now, this minute. And I'm prepared to pay for them. There are plenty of others in town. Are you coming or not?
[62:54]
Boston Blackie
Yeah. Yeah, okay. And thanks for the reminder. That's me, you hear, sprinting up your front walk.
[62:59]
Doreen Dimple
That's much better. And Marlow, bring your brains along. You're gonna need them.
[63:11]
Boston Blackie
And that was the end of my quiet evening. But I just couldn't resist those government engravings of Mr. Lincoln. So I drove down to Weston, turned off on Los Feliz and found the number 8,000, 412. The yard was an overgrown tangle of perennial plants losing their battle with the weeds. It was like a girl in a strapless evening gown with her hair up in curlers. However, I could see a light through the venetian blinds, and the doorbell worked with a resonant two tone chime that caused the door to open just far enough to allow a place so blue they were almost purple to peek out of me.
[63:44]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, what is it?
[63:45]
Boston Blackie
I. I'm delivering that private detective you ordered.
[63:48]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Marlow. Come in.
[63:50]
Boston Blackie
Thanks.
[63:52]
Doreen Dimple
Sit down, won't you?
[63:53]
Boston Blackie
Thanks again. All right, what's the next move?
[63:57]
Doreen Dimple
It's about my kid sister. She's involved with a man named Lou Horner, a San Francisco broker. She's quite deeply involved, I'm afraid.
[64:05]
Boston Blackie
Oh?
[64:06]
Doreen Dimple
You see, some very strange things are going on, Marlow, and my sister is a naive kid caught right in the middle of them.
[64:12]
Boston Blackie
Yeah, I see. What sort of strange things, Ms. Martin?
[64:15]
Doreen Dimple
Shelley.
[64:16]
Boston Blackie
Sweet.
[64:17]
Doreen Dimple
Well, to begin with, when I arrived from San Francisco today, my sister called me and asked me to meet her here in this house. When I got here, the lights were on, the radio was playing, and the front door was open, but the place was deserted.
[64:29]
Boston Blackie
Whose house is it? Horner's?
[64:31]
Doreen Dimple
No, I think she said it belongs to a friend of his who's in Europe. Now, this Horner person uses it when he's in Los Angeles.
[64:37]
Boston Blackie
Well, couldn't they have stepped out for a while? You know, you don't look the type, Shelly, but maybe you're just panicky, huh?
[64:42]
Doreen Dimple
No, I'm not being panicky.
[64:44]
Boston Blackie
All right, all right. Where's the nasty jam?
[64:46]
Doreen Dimple
Right behind the couch. Take a look.
[64:49]
Boston Blackie
Okay, but you know, I. Oh, I see what you mean. Who is he, Shelley? How'd he get here?
[64:57]
Doreen Dimple
Maybe it's Horner. I don't know. I tried to search him, but I couldn't.
[65:02]
Boston Blackie
Well, it wouldn't have helped anyway. Whoever shot him cleaned him out. No wallet, no papers, nothing.
[65:06]
Doreen Dimple
I found this magazine lying under his hand. Look here he must have written this just before he died.
[65:13]
Boston Blackie
Where's that?
[65:14]
Philip Marlowe
Here.
[65:15]
Boston Blackie
It says, call Marion tonight about the orange dog. A foal.
[65:21]
Philip Marlowe
Orange dog. A foal Foe. What?
[65:23]
Doreen Dimple
That's why I called you, Phil. Marian is my sister. And whatever the orange dog of foe is, it must be awfully important. We've got to find out what it means, Phil, for Marion's sake.
[65:33]
Boston Blackie
So far, it means murder, honey, and that's for the cops.
[65:35]
Philip Marlowe
No.
[65:37]
Doreen Dimple
All right, Corbin, but keep Marion's name out of it. A thing like this could destroy her.
[65:43]
Boston Blackie
Look, maybe she pulled the trigger on our friend here, you know?
[65:45]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe.
[65:46]
Doreen Dimple
But I don't think so. She's a sweet kid, Phil. Give her a break. If I'm wrong, I swear I'll help you bring her in myself. Is that fair enough?
[65:57]
Boston Blackie
Okay, Shelley, it's a deal. It makes just as much sense as the orange dog. Foe, but no more. After I checked as far as I could on my client and set our home, which was the Villa 12 at the Wilshire Gardens Hotel, I ripped the general squeegee tire ad with the scribbled across it out of the magazine, folded it up and stuck it in my pocket. Next, I called Lt. Ibarra at Homicide and told him where I'd found a body, probably named Lou Horner, leaving out all the details about Shelly Marion and the orange dog. Then I started out the door, but backed back as a shadow slid across the walk. I caught a glimpse of a large, ugly head of long, dirty hair set on a small, ugly body that was moving fast. By the time I got out on the walk, Longhair was already putting mileage on a green coop with a broken tail light. It winked mockingly as it went out of sight. So I got in my car and headed for New Chinatown. It was the logical place to get some information regarding a Chinese dog. I saw a light filtering through a dingy window, illuminating the words James Tang, dealer in Oriental curios. Inside the musty shop, a little man dressed in a black kimono drifted forward softly. Yes, I think perhaps you can help me. Huh?
[67:18]
Philip Marlowe
I am honored to be able to help. Will bring fragrance of plum blossoms to my nostrils, carpet of rose petals to my humble floor, and thousand blessings upon my head.
[67:30]
Boston Blackie
That's very pretty. Tell me, what is the Dog of Foe?
[67:33]
Philip Marlowe
The Dog of Foe? Why. Why, this. This fantastic creature here is called the Dog of Foe? His fierce eyes and snarling mouth are to frighten away evil spirits from temples of Buddha.
[67:49]
Boston Blackie
Why do you say call the dog a foal?
[67:51]
Philip Marlowe
Amateur Collectors and auctioneers have named him that. It sounds exotic to cash customers. Actually, he is a lion. The lion of Korea.
[68:02]
Boston Blackie
I see. Tang, would you happen to have an orange dog of foal?
[68:07]
Philip Marlowe
Very strange that you should ask that, my friend.
[68:10]
Boston Blackie
Strange why?
[68:11]
Philip Marlowe
Reason number one, There is no authentic orange dog of foe.
[68:16]
Boston Blackie
That's a good reason. Why not?
[68:18]
Philip Marlowe
Because two Buddhists orange is color of sorrow.
[68:22]
Boston Blackie
The piece you speak of could not possibly be authentic. What's reason number two?
[68:26]
Philip Marlowe
You are second person to inquire after this non existent orange doga Po within last few minutes.
[68:32]
Boston Blackie
Was it an ugly little man with long hair?
[68:34]
Philip Marlowe
Quite contrary, it was very pretty girl with short hair.
[68:39]
Boston Blackie
Was her name Marion?
[68:41]
Philip Marlowe
She made point of not leaving her name now.
[68:44]
Boston Blackie
It proves something.
[68:45]
Philip Marlowe
However, my friend, old Chinese proverb loosely translates. It says a little knowledge is the instrument of a fool.
[69:07]
Boston Blackie
There were nine other curio shops in the neighborhood. So I started making the rounds for the non existent orange dog of foe and a girl who was interested in one. From the first three shops I got a fast horse laugh and the fact that the girl was was still ahead of me. The next two netted an insider piece and a total blank on the Dane. And from the 6th call Saxons a glossy well ordered place on West 7th Street. The only effect was a coldly curious raised eyebrow. The man in front of me, whom I took to be Mr. Saxon himself, was a gaunt white Russian with a high naked head the color of warm paraffin. His slender fingers played nervously with each other as we talked.
[69:40]
Philip Marlowe
The orange dog of hope. Yes, I have heard of such a piece. I think it would be porcelain probably.
[69:47]
Boston Blackie
This is your business. Who has it, Mr. Saxon? Can you tell me?
[69:50]
Philip Marlowe
No, no, I am sorry. I believe I heard this orange dog mentioned just once somewhere down in the village. But I'm sure I could never remember who spoke of it or when.
[70:01]
Boston Blackie
No idea of its value then, huh?
[70:02]
Philip Marlowe
Now that you mention it, I seem to remember the figure. 20,000.
[70:07]
Boston Blackie
You mean yen? How much in American money?
[70:09]
Philip Marlowe
I am speaking of American money. It would be an importation from China. You know.
[70:13]
Boston Blackie
How could it be worth that much? It's not even authentic, Mr. Saxon.
[70:16]
Philip Marlowe
Authentic? You seem to know a good deal more than I about this orange dog. Possibly. One would have to see it to appreciate its value.
[70:25]
Boston Blackie
Yeah. Tell me, has a girl been in here tonight looking for this orange dog?
[70:29]
Philip Marlowe
A girl I know.
[70:30]
Boston Blackie
Know anybody named Marion?
[70:31]
Philip Marlowe
Marion? Marion? No, there is no one in my acquaintance by that name. But why do you ask?
[70:37]
Boston Blackie
Because Marion has quite an interest in the orange dog. I have a Feeling they'd make a great team if we could get them together.
[70:42]
Philip Marlowe
I see. And what is your name, sir?
[70:45]
Boston Blackie
It's not Fu Manchu, Mr. Saxon. Good night. Saxon's expression didn't change. I turned and walked out of the place then, because with both of us using double talk, the conversation was bound to deteriorate. At least I had found out that the Orange Dog of Foe existed and was going for a very high figure, especially for a phony. And it didn't take an abacus to figure out that Saxon knew more than he told me. Well, I started up the sidewalk for the next Bric a Brac emporium when I saw something parked on the side street which brought me to a halt. It was that green coop with the broken tail light. I went over to it, found it empty and stuck my head inside to check the registration card for Longhair's real name. Yeah, it was a very foolish move because Long Hair at that very moment prodded my kidney with the muzzle of a.38. And neither he nor the gun had a sense of humor.
[71:37]
Philip Marlowe
All right, Mr. Wise Guy, come out. Walk. You and me are gone up the alley here.
[71:42]
Boston Blackie
What's the matter? Don't you feel at home in the light?
[71:44]
Philip Marlowe
Shut up. I don't like you much anyway, so you better ease off with a smart science. Okay, this one goes far enough. Well, Mr. Wise Guy, did you find what you're looking for?
[71:55]
Boston Blackie
You mean the orange dog? Shorty, the answer's no.
[71:57]
Philip Marlowe
The Orange Dog. So that's where the plates are.
[71:59]
Boston Blackie
What plates?
[72:00]
Philip Marlowe
You're working for Horner. You don't know what plates.
[72:04]
Boston Blackie
Look, chum, when you get your next haircut, have your brains dusted off. Nobody works for Horner anymore. Horner's dead.
[72:10]
Philip Marlowe
Dead? Since when?
[72:11]
Boston Blackie
What's the surprise act for? You saw the body. You were sneeping around that house on Los Feliz. In fact, you might have killed Horner yourself.
[72:18]
Philip Marlowe
That body wasn't Horner. Why, Horner is three times the size of that guy in Las Vegas. He's bald. Also, he's so dumb he can't remember his own phone number. Holy. I'm looking for street where they sell those insulin. I'm sorry, gentlemen. I don't want to intrude. Hey, quiet. I'll blow your brain shut. All right. Now, come on, Mr. Wise Guy, tell me what Horner's got on his mind. You know. All right. I saw you taking orders from his girl.
[72:44]
Boston Blackie
You mean Shelly Martin?
[72:46]
Philip Marlowe
Who else?
[72:47]
Boston Blackie
Thought maybe you meant Marion.
[72:49]
Philip Marlowe
Marion? Who's Marion?
[72:51]
Boston Blackie
Shelly Martin's. Sister. And don't let it worry you. Marian's got the orange dog eating out of her hand.
[72:55]
Philip Marlowe
I don't say it ain't funny, mister. It's just peculiar. Because Shelly Martin don't have a sister. I know. So it seems like you're a very mixed up character. In fact, Mr. Wise Guy, you're so mixed up you're no good to me at all. So get over there with the rest of that.
[73:19]
Boston Blackie
I took my time getting up. A dirty long haired little man was gone. My head ached from the rapid given me with a pistol barrel and I was disgusted with myself. Dry, dirty, disgusted like a drunk at sunrise. Because a nasty little jerk with an oversized head and a blue eyed dynamo with auburn hair had me jumping through hoops like a trained ape. I stood in the alley and swimming until the futility of that routine dawned on me. Then I decided to go hunting. But I made one stop first at a telephone to at least get Ibar off my conscience. Lieutenant Ibar Marlow. Lieutenant, I just found out that body on Los Feliz isn't Horner. I knew that an hour ago. Huh. The body isn't Horn, isn't Horner is no broke. He's a counterfeiter. A big one.
[74:08]
Philip Marlowe
No, the dead man was a treasury agent named Slade who was closing in on Horner. So if you've got anything you haven't.
[74:14]
Boston Blackie
Told Phil, you better get it off your chest at this point. It's a pleasure. Girl named Shelly Martin's calling the signals about now and she can be found at Villa 12 Wilshire Gardens Hotel. Yeah, Hurry. You'll just about meet me there. Ibarra. Now wait.
[74:26]
Philip Marlowe
Suppose you go alone and find out.
[74:28]
Boston Blackie
What you can first. That's a switch. I'll follow in half an hour.
[74:31]
Philip Marlowe
Let's not freeze her up, Marlow. Let's get keep her talking.
[74:34]
Boston Blackie
Okay, okay, Bar. That's easy for her. She's got a fork tongue. Only this time it's going to wag strictly on the straight and narrow, I guarantee it.
[74:52]
Philip Marlowe
In just a moment we will return to the second act of the Adventures of Philip Marlo. But first, it's no mystery that hunger and cold confront many families abroad this winter. Care will help feed and clothe these needy people. Care the safe sure non profit way to send supplies to Europe and Asia. A check to care for $10 will send a 21 and a half pound 41,000 calorie food package or a baby food package or a layette or a baby blanket package or material for Clothing Care guarantees delivery. You get a signed receipt that your package has reached its destination. Write your check tonight. Mail it first thing in the morning to Care C A R E. 50 Broad Street, New York City. And now with our star, Gerald Moore, we return to the second act of Philip Marlowe and tonight's story, the Orange Dog.
[75:52]
Boston Blackie
When I pointed my car toward the Wilshire Gardens and a beautiful liar named Shelley Martin, I was sure of two things. The plates that long haired Wise cracked about just before he piled me into a row of garbage cans were the engraved kind that counterfeiters used to make money the easy way. And second, both Longhair and Lou Horner were racing for the plates as well as the Orange Dog, which could be one and the same thing. But 20 minutes later, as I pulled up near Villa 12, which were strips of yellow light, raised voices drifting out of half open Venetian blinds, I forgot about the gentleman involved and concentrated on a lady who didn't have a sister called Marion. I went around to the back of the villa where I found the service door unlocked and the kitchen beyond dark. And when I entered and quietly moved to a spot near the living room where I could see Shelly snapping at a pompous, excitable man with a red face, I figured that a little eavesdropping might pay off.
[76:41]
Doreen Dimple
I'm here in Los Angeles. Is there anything wrong with that, Mr. Horner?
[76:45]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, everything. Why, I wouldn't even have known you were in town if I hadn't gone back to the place in Los Feliz where I saw you and some man having a delightful little chit chat over the body of that tea man.
[76:55]
Doreen Dimple
Treasury man?
[76:55]
Philip Marlowe
Yes.
[76:56]
Doreen Dimple
Is that who he was?
[76:57]
Philip Marlowe
A meddlesome fool I caught snooping through my papers. Then.
[77:01]
Doreen Dimple
Then you killed him, Lou.
[77:03]
Philip Marlowe
Of course I killed him. I had to. Now stop asking questions and get out of here. Because this is business, not pleasure, Shelley. And that leaves no room for you or Marian. What do you know about Marion?
[77:13]
Doreen Dimple
Not enough. But what I do know, I don't like. Look, Blue. Who is Marion and what does she mean to you?
[77:20]
Philip Marlowe
Marian? Means money to me, Shelley, Nothing more. So just leave me alone here so that I can make a call according to schedule.
[77:26]
Doreen Dimple
A call about Lou.
[77:28]
Philip Marlowe
What's the matter, Shelly?
[77:29]
Doreen Dimple
Behind you. Lou. They're in the garden, Lou.
[77:35]
Boston Blackie
The bullet crashed through a closed window to until it got to Horner, who grabbed at his chest and dropped to the floor even before the glass quit flying. And by the time I got outside to where the shot had come from, I found nothing but a little Wind rustling, a lot of trees. When I got back to Shelley, in the blood of a tweet on the carpet, Horner was already dead.
[77:52]
Doreen Dimple
Marlow? Marlowe. The man out there was Henry Peel.
[77:55]
Boston Blackie
Peel something in long hair and dirty clothes?
[77:57]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, I met him in Horner's office once. Blue said he was a broker from Chicago.
[78:01]
Boston Blackie
Come on. Both Peel and Horner are counterfeiters.
[78:03]
Philip Marlowe
What?
[78:04]
Doreen Dimple
Lou, a counterfeiter?
[78:05]
Boston Blackie
That's right. Never mind the carefully arched eyebrows, honey. They mean nothing.
[78:08]
Doreen Dimple
But Marlow, I swear I never knew that Horner was anything but a broker.
[78:11]
Boston Blackie
A broker maltreating poor sister Marian. You're a liar, Shelley.
[78:15]
Doreen Dimple
About Marion. Yes? I haven't even got a sister. But from there on out, I'm telling the truth, Phil.
[78:21]
Boston Blackie
Then tell some more, and fast.
[78:23]
Doreen Dimple
All right, here it is, Blue.
[78:25]
Boston Blackie
Horner's been my boyfriend and checkbook for.
[78:29]
Doreen Dimple
The past year and a half. But about a month ago, he suddenly stopped being very attentive and I couldn't figure out why.
[78:36]
Boston Blackie
So you decided to keep your big blue eyes wide open.
[78:39]
Doreen Dimple
Exactly. And it paid off. Because I found out that one, he had taken better than $20,000 out of his bank account, two, that he was coming down here to Los Angeles, and.
[78:49]
Boston Blackie
Three, that an item named Marion might be beating your time.
[78:51]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, and that part of it upset me plenty until 10 minutes ago. But then I found out that Horner here was a murderer. And that Marlow I don't buy.
[79:01]
Boston Blackie
Three cheers for the All American Girl.
[79:03]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, skip it, Marlow. I'll live my way, you live yours.
[79:05]
Boston Blackie
Don't worry, honey. Nobody wants to change places with you. Hey, hey, look. Why does Horner wear a little rubber band on his little finger? Do you know?
[79:14]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, he had a bad memory. Used every kind of gadget in the books to keep himself from forgetting things, especially numbers. For example, that rubber band might mean 10 o' clock.
[79:24]
Boston Blackie
How do you figure?
[79:25]
Doreen Dimple
Like 5 and 5. The fingers on each hand reading from left to right. He used things like that.
[79:32]
Boston Blackie
Wait a minute. Horner was gonna make a call to Marian just now. And the message the T man left was call Marion tonight about the orange dog. A foal. Shelly, baby, where's your phone? Fast. Come on, it's quarter after 10 already.
[79:44]
Doreen Dimple
Well, it's out there in the hall, Marlowe. What are you talking about?
[79:48]
Boston Blackie
A line, honey. A line on your ex sister. Marion.
[79:57]
Philip Marlowe
This is Mr. Saxon.
[79:59]
Boston Blackie
Ah, Lou Horner. Mr. Saxon, I, I, I know I'm some 15 minutes late with this call, but I'd still like to see you about the orange dog of foe.
[80:08]
Philip Marlowe
Certainly, Mr. Horner. The orange dog is here waiting for you.
[80:12]
Boston Blackie
Good. I'll be right over.
[80:14]
Doreen Dimple
Marlow, who is Mr. Saxon?
[80:16]
Boston Blackie
A man very close to a lot of trouble, Shelly. Now, look, you wait right here for the law, and in particular, one Lieutenant Ibarra. Tell him nothing but the truth about Horner and what he meant to you in dollars and cents, and you may be all right.
[80:25]
Doreen Dimple
But where are you going, Marlow?
[80:27]
Boston Blackie
To a curio shop on West 7th street to see, among other things, the orange dog of Fo.
[80:46]
Philip Marlowe
You are the Mr. Horner who called?
[80:48]
Boston Blackie
Yeah, yeah. Also the one who was here this afternoon. You remember?
[80:51]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, yeah.
[80:51]
Boston Blackie
Well, I. I'm sorry I didn't call you at 10, Mr. Saxon, according to schedule. I hope it hasn't inconvenienced you.
[80:57]
Philip Marlowe
No, that's quite all right, Mr. Horner. One moment, sir.
[81:03]
Boston Blackie
What's the matter? Is anything wrong tonight? Seem on edge, Mr. Saxon?
[81:07]
Philip Marlowe
I am so. Please, Mr. Horner, don't make a single stupid move.
[81:11]
Boston Blackie
What? Wait a minute. Why the gun, Mr. Saxon? I promise not to bite the orange dog.
[81:16]
Philip Marlowe
You won't even touch the orange dog. Now, who are you?
[81:20]
Boston Blackie
Now, we've been all through that. I'm Horner Saxon. Lou Horner of San Francisco.
[81:23]
Philip Marlowe
No, you're not. Horner would have had no reason to wander around curio shops as you did this afternoon, asking any and everybody about the orange dog. Now, once more, who are you and where is the real Lou Horner?
[81:35]
Boston Blackie
All right, we'll take him in that order. I'm a private detective named Philip Marlow, and Lou Horner's a corpse. But also I'm a good friend of yours, Saxon, because I'm gonna give you a little bit of advice for free. Call it quits, buster. You're licked.
[81:48]
Philip Marlowe
What are you talking about, Marlow?
[81:49]
Boston Blackie
The T for treasury man named Slade before he died. Saxony talk, I see, and believe me, said enough to put you away till orange dogs are as popular as lifesavers. What do you say, Saxon? Do we play it smart?
[82:00]
Philip Marlowe
Very well, Marlow, we will play it smart. My kind of smart. Now, turn around and walk through that curtain there. I want to show you something.
[82:09]
Boston Blackie
Orange dog, maybe?
[82:10]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, the orange dog of foe. I want you to see it for yourself before you die.
[82:22]
Boston Blackie
Saxon said, die like it already happened. And after he relieved me of the comforting bulge with a gun in my pocket and marched me to a large windowless room that was a little darker than the lining of an eight ball, he told me to stand very still. Then he turned on a single lamp that rested on a large scarred table, and next to it an ordinary shipping crate, and cushioned on all sides by white wrapping paper. I finally saw the Orange Dog foal. It was a porcelain lion, popeyed and majestic in a crazy way. And also it was colored orange, bright and clear. But now that I'd seen it, I knew that the next move was Saxon's. I turned to face him. It was then that I noticed the black curtain behind him moved slightly, and Longhair quietly stepped into the room this Mr. Saxon did not know about.
[83:12]
Philip Marlowe
Well, Marlow, now that you have seen the Orange Dog for your first and last time, what do you think of it? He thinks it's just Jim, Daddy. Mister. Now drop your gun before I blow the top of your head off. Come on, drop it. It's better. Now sit down there and stay put. You, Marlow, get across the room.
[83:30]
Boston Blackie
Okay. Thanks for showing up, Peel, before Saxon here ran out of small jokes.
[83:35]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, kid yourself, Marlow. I didn't just show up, I've been right behind you all away. That's how I work.
[83:39]
Boston Blackie
So what do you want, Peel?
[83:40]
Philip Marlowe
A couple of very fine and great plates that I've been after for six months now.
[83:45]
Boston Blackie
Plates which could be in the Orange.
[83:46]
Philip Marlowe
Dog of foe no place else. But what you think that Maybe the late Mr. Horner wanted is an ornament? But that's all it is. There are no plates in the Orange Dog. It is only a collector's item. And you're a liar, Saxon. I know the best way to prove that, Marlow. Pick that thing up and toss it against the wall. No, no, don't. I tell you, there's nothing in it. I said, Marlow, go on.
[84:05]
Boston Blackie
Okay, Pe.
[84:08]
Philip Marlowe
Ah, now we'll see who's right above that Plates being here.
[84:13]
Boston Blackie
Nothing, huh, Peel?
[84:16]
Philip Marlowe
No, nothing. All right, Saxon, get up. I want to know what a plates are, so I'm going to count to three. That's how long you have to live if you don't tell me. No, no, Peel, believe me, there are no plates. One, two. Hold it, Peel.
[84:32]
Boston Blackie
Wait. Here are the plates here in this jewel box. Look, right here under your nose.
[84:41]
Philip Marlowe
Is he. Is he out, Marlow?
[84:43]
Boston Blackie
Yeah, he's out all right. He took a light with him too. Is there. Is there another lamp in here?
[84:48]
Philip Marlowe
No, no, there isn't. Nor is there another gun.
[84:51]
Boston Blackie
Why, you stinking little. Wait a minute. Those sirens, Saxon, they're heading this way.
[84:55]
Philip Marlowe
Police.
[84:55]
Boston Blackie
Yeah, the police. Looks like sooner or later everybody gets together in the back room at Saxon's house.
[85:00]
Philip Marlowe
But not everybody stays here. So I'll take this wrapping paper and leave now.
[85:04]
Boston Blackie
Wrapping paper? The stuff that was around the orange dog?
[85:06]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, a sample of the best grade of counterfeiting paper made, Marlowe. And that's what Horner was supposed to buy, not plates. Those he got a month ago.
[85:14]
Boston Blackie
Still makes you a crook, Saxon. And one will never get past the front door.
[85:17]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, no? We'll see about that, Marlow.
[85:22]
Boston Blackie
Keep shooting Saxon in the dark.
[85:23]
Philip Marlowe
You got four shots left, you filthy maggot.
[85:29]
Boston Blackie
Only one now, Saxon. That's number six. You're through, Saxon. By the time Ibarra and his boys, plus a half a dozen very anxious team men got into the room, Saxon was already coming apart at the seams. After a half hour of steady questioning, he split wide open and led us all to a basement hideout where the T men went wild over a few sheets of A1 counterfeiting paper. But an hour later, after Peel, who admitted murdering Lou Horner, and Saxon, who was ready for the nearest straightjacket, were both in the lockup, there was still the problem of the glib lass from San Francisco. Finally, when Shelly, Lieutenant Ibarr and I stood on the green light of the Globe in front of police headquarters, I knew that the girl who technically was only guilty of withholding information from the police, was not going to spend any time in the poking. Because, after all, I was more or less guilty of the same thing. Besides, Lt. Ibarra was still interested in the others. Well, Marlow, it looks like the whole.
[86:37]
Philip Marlowe
Business actually boils down to a single transaction between Clay Saxon, who had the counterfeiting paper, and Lou Horner, who was supposed to buy it.
[86:45]
Boston Blackie
That's right, Ibarra. But Horner, who must have made his contact with Saxon via some middleman in San Francisco, only had a telephone number and the password. The orange dog of foe to work on here in la.
[86:55]
Philip Marlowe
But how'd you get hold of that number, Phil?
[86:57]
Boston Blackie
From the message the T man left before he died.
[87:00]
Doreen Dimple
You mean you actually called someone named Marion?
[87:02]
Boston Blackie
No, honey, I just dialed Marion. Madison, r I o n 7466. Madison, 7466.
[87:13]
Philip Marlowe
You get it? Yeah.
[87:15]
Doreen Dimple
Another one of Horner's screwy memory tricks. Like the rubber band on his 10th finger.
[87:19]
Philip Marlowe
Hey, that's pretty good, Phil.
[87:21]
Boston Blackie
Oh, it's an old gimmick, really. I read it in a dozen detective stories.
[87:24]
Philip Marlowe
What do you know?
[87:25]
Boston Blackie
You maybe ought to read some of those. Well, good night, fellow. Look for you tomorrow night, Lieutenant. Well, Shelley, do I. Do I show you the way home.
[87:38]
Doreen Dimple
Now, Marlow, aren't you hungry or thirsty or something?
[87:43]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah.
[87:43]
Boston Blackie
Yeah, guess I am at that.
[87:46]
Doreen Dimple
Well, I know just the place for us, darling. It's a cute little place right smack in the middle of Chinatown.
[88:01]
Boston Blackie
Well, we got through a small Chinese dinner without seeing or hearing from a single orange dog. And when it came time to leave, I was thinking that Shelly wasn't really too bad a kid at that. So when she left the table to powder her nose, I started to make plans. But when she got back, I forgot about them because in the meantime she'd run into an old friend. Yeah, a rich old friend who was all alone in the big city. I said I didn't mind taking a rain check. When she explained that he was from Kansas City and a broker at that. He certainly was overweight. Too much staking Potatoes. Steak and potatoes. Wonder if Lindy's is still open.
[88:58]
Philip Marlowe
The Adventures of Philip Marlowe, created by Raymond Chandler, stars Gerald Moore and is produced and directed by Norman McDonnell. Script is by Mel Danelli, Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the cast were Francis Robinson, Edgar Barrier, Tony Barrett, Lou Krugman and Ed Begley. Lieutenant Detective Abar is played by Jeff Corey. The special music was by Richard Oron. Be sure and be with us again next week when Philip Marlow says, I.
[89:28]
Boston Blackie
Was hired to find a blackmailer. And I did. But first I found a badly beaten Adonis Jezebel with an accent and a man who had been an easy mark for murder.
[89:49]
Philip Marlowe
90 minutes of unsurpassed comedy comes to you every Sunday night when CBS brings you the Spike Jones show, the Jack Benny show and Amos and Andy in succession. Tomorrow night, pianist Alec Templeton and songstress Peggy Mann are Spike Jones. Special guests Jack Benny and his gang and Amos and Andy following in succession will bring you more of the laughs that make them first for Sunday night Fun. Spike Jones and Amos and Andy come to you over most of these same CBS network stations. And Jack Benny comes to you over them all. Now stay tuned for Gangbusters, which follows immediately over most of these stations. Foreign this is Roy Rowan speaking for cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Vincent Price, who is usually heard at this time as the Saint, has been delayed in Paris tonight by arrangement with Metro Goldwyn Mayor, you will hear Barry Sullivan in the role. Mr. Sullivan can currently be seen with Lana Turner and Ray Milan in A life of Her Own. The Adventures of the Saint, starring Barry Sullivan. The Saints, 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 radio, starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor, Barry Sullivan as the saint. And Mr. Templer. Well, Louie, that's what I call service. Parked right in front of my apartment waiting for you, Mr. Templar. I was hoping you would be desirous of a hack. That I am, Louie. Well, where to, Mr. Templar? Well, I'm not quite sure. You see, I have a problem up in my apartment. What's her name? Well, I call her Minerva. Another dish and a jam. She won't tell me the way she cries. I have an idea something's wrong. How long has she been at your place? Oh, a couple of hours. And still crying or. Mr. Thumpley, you're losing your charm. I think she wants to go home. You're definitely losing your charm. I'd like to take her home. Well, she lost her charm, too. Only I don't know where her home is. But now that you're here, I'll untie her and maybe she can find a rope. You're on top, Mr. Templar. Louie. Louie. She's a dog. Oh. Well, why didn't you say? I found her this morning. I've never seen her around here before. So I didn't want to turn her loose. Because if she can't find a way home, there's no telling what will happen to her. So what are you going to do? Turn her loose. But you just said that you don't. That's where you come in. We'll follow her in your hack, see where she goes so we can keep her out of trouble. Oh, that I should live to see the day when the Robin Hood of modern crime is nurse made to a poop. Remember the saying, Louie, do unto other dumb animals what you would have others do unto you. Besides, she's cute. Yeah, huh. What kind is she? Pekingese. I thought you said it was a dog. Louie, that's unkind. Sorry. I didn't mean it. Stay put, Louie. I'll get Minerva and let's see where she takes us. Hey, Minerva has fancy taste. This is a real expensive neighborhood. And this is a real expensive trip. We've been following her for over an hour. You know any better way to spend your money, Mr. Templar, than giving it to me old friend? I can think of a couple. Say, Minerva's turning in at that gate. Yeah. Cute little shack she picked. I bet it doesn't have over 40 rooms. You think she really lives there? She only dreaming. And we soon find out. Louis, turn into the driveway and park. I'll take her up to the house. If she does belong here, there will no doubtless be a reward. And if there is no doubtless drooling Louie, your cut is already on the meter. So either way, you can't lose. I'm not making out so awful good on it, Mr. Templer. Only one fair, Only one tip and more than an hour. Where's the profit? Why, Louie, the conversation. Of course. What's the matter? What's the matter? You want down? Well, you're out of luck. Or maybe you're in luck because when I pick up a young lady, I usually show her a good time. So if it turns out you don't live here. Why, yes, sir. Oh, hello. My name's Simon Templar. Oh, yes. I'm sure madam will be delighted you've come. You're sure? Of course. Right this way, sir. Why should madam be delighted? I've come. You surprised me, sir. I never heard that modesty was one of your outstanding characteristics. You seem to know a lot about me. Doesn't everybody? If you pardon the levity. I'll pardon the levity, but not the evasion. Evasion? I asked you why madam should be delighted. I've come. Is it because of Minerva? Minerva, sir? This. Oh, you mean Ming Toi. Do I? I guess I do. I should have known. Ming toi. Naturally, madam will be delighted about the dog. But what I was particularly referring to were the jewels. Have you brought them also? Jewels? Apparently you haven't. I hope you'll pardon these questions, sir. The kitchen help expects it of me, and I like to have something to report. No, unless you communicate from the front. Which reminds me, where is the front? Around this next bend, sir, in the east wing. Ah. If I'd known the hall was this long, I'd have asked Louis to bring in his cab. My feet hurt. It's not much further. Well, let's be thankful for small favors. What was that? Does anyone in this house take singing lessons? No, sir. And that was a scream. And it came from in there. Did you scream? Who are you?
[95:57]
Doreen Dimple
I'm Ming Toy, darling. Tom to Mama. Give it to me, young man.
[96:03]
Philip Marlowe
Here.
[96:04]
Doreen Dimple
Oh. Mama's little baby kins isn't all right.
[96:07]
Philip Marlowe
She's all right, but something else isn't somebody screaming.
[96:09]
Doreen Dimple
I know I did. There was someone peering through that window. Was it you?
[96:13]
Philip Marlowe
Hardly. I was in the house.
[96:14]
Doreen Dimple
Well, you have no business barging in here unannounced.
[96:16]
Philip Marlowe
Well, it seems, lady, that I run faster than your butler. I thought you were in trouble.
[96:19]
Doreen Dimple
I was startled. Now, somebody better go investigate. Oh, Mingy angel did a measurement.
[96:24]
Philip Marlowe
What is it? Madam? Is something wrong?
[96:26]
Doreen Dimple
There's a prowler outside the window. Go see who it is, please.
[96:29]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, madam.
[96:30]
Doreen Dimple
Now, you, young man. Do you have my jewels?
[96:33]
Philip Marlowe
I was wondering when we'd get around to that. I'm also wondering. Mother, are you all right? I heard you scream.
[96:39]
Doreen Dimple
Yes, Ernest.
[96:40]
Philip Marlowe
Who's he? Me? Yes. What are you doing here? I just came to return your door. Return?
[96:45]
Doreen Dimple
Yes.
[96:45]
Philip Marlowe
Here she is.
[96:46]
Doreen Dimple
Mama's a little precious.
[96:48]
Philip Marlowe
Say, her car's off.
[96:50]
Doreen Dimple
That's right.
[96:51]
Philip Marlowe
How did you know she's off, dog? I didn't. Well, then what? Hey, wait a minute. I'm waiting. Pull up your hands. I'm sorry I waited.
[96:59]
Doreen Dimple
I didn't know you owned a revolver.
[97:01]
Philip Marlowe
Lucky I do. Mother, call the police. Tell them we've got the thief. Oh, great. Somebody screamed. Was it you, Isabelle? Yes, but it's all right.
[97:08]
Doreen Dimple
I saw somebody at the window. Fitch is looking into it.
[97:10]
Philip Marlowe
Ernest, what the devil are you doing? Haven't I told you not to play with guns? I'm not playing, Father. This is the thief? Sure. Does he have the jewels? I haven't searched him. Then how do you know he brought back Ming Toy? Huh? Oh, yes. Morning, Ming Toy. Don't bite me, you little monster. Just a minute, Father. She doesn't have her collar, so how could he know she was our dog? She told me. Oh, we're just wasting time. Mother, will you please pick up that phone and call the police? It won't do any good. The line's been cut. See? Fine. Thanks for looking down. Hey. Here. What are you doing? Stop. I'll take the gun. Here, let me help. That's better.
[97:48]
Doreen Dimple
Such violence.
[97:49]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah, it's very good exercise, honest.
[97:51]
Doreen Dimple
You gave the young man the gun.
[97:53]
Philip Marlowe
Why I asked him so nicely. Now, will somebody please tell me what's going on around here? As if you don't. As if I don't. Just who are you anyway, young fella? Simon Templar. And you? You don't know who I am? Should I? I, sir, am C.J. allardyce. Answer that. Nuts. I beg your pardon? I said nuts. So you did. As in bolts. Nuts and bolts. We manufacture them. You've heard of Allardice Nut? Yes. Aren't they? What's that? The whole family. Big pardon. Skip it. Our slogan. If it's Allardyce, it's nut. That's what I said. There's no nut like an Allardyce. And this could go on all day. Father, I'm sure Mr. Templar didn't come here to talk Business. Why did he come? To return Ming Toi. And now that I've been so warmly thanked, I'll just run along. I hope you won't mind my taking your revolver with me, Ernest, as a souvenir. When I'm safely out of reach in northern Tibet. Say, I'll send it back. Well, jiho. All right, Louie, let's get out of here. What took you so long? You wouldn't believe me if I told you. Yeah? Try me. No, it's no use. I don't believe it myself. Did you get a reward? Reward? Louie, I'm out of there. Who could ask for anything more? Now, let's go. Hey, just a minute, Mr. Temple. Now what? Somebody is hiding in them bushes and watching us, you see? Oh, yeah. Now, that's probably who Mrs. Allardy saw at the window. Well, get started. Louie ain't gonna investigate. It's probably only a man eating a gorilla. None of our business. This is not like you. Mr. Templet's not like you at all. As a matter of fact, I'm not exactly feeling myself at the moment, so don't be too surprised. But where is your spirit of adventure, huh? What may lurk in them bushes? Excitement. Thrills. Who knows? I know. You do. Yeah. I can see him in your rear view mirror. It's a Kid. Kid. About 10 years old. A kid. Let's get out of here. Excitement. I could stand mystery. I could stand adventure. But kids, I got a nephew. What's wrong with this thing?
[100:03]
Doreen Dimple
Hi.
[100:05]
Philip Marlowe
Hello, kid.
[100:06]
Doreen Dimple
Hey, what's the matter, mister? Won't you start?
[100:09]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, sure, sure, she'll start. I'm just trying to run down the battery so the lights won't work on a kind of. I don't like night driving.
[100:16]
Doreen Dimple
Wise guy.
[100:18]
Philip Marlowe
What's your name, sonny?
[100:19]
Doreen Dimple
It ain't sonny.
[100:20]
Philip Marlowe
Well, what is it?
[100:21]
Doreen Dimple
What's it to you?
[100:22]
Philip Marlowe
See what I mean? Yeah. Look, fella, if you don't tell me your name, I'm gonna have to call you my little man. How would you like that?
[100:28]
Doreen Dimple
You win. It's Stevie. What's yours?
[100:31]
Philip Marlowe
Simon.
[100:32]
Doreen Dimple
Simon Witch.
[100:33]
Philip Marlowe
Simon Templar.
[100:34]
Doreen Dimple
A saint.
[100:35]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah, Stevie.
[100:37]
Doreen Dimple
Hey, wait a minute. You may not be him at all. How do I know this ain't a bluff?
[100:42]
Philip Marlowe
You don't.
[100:44]
Doreen Dimple
Well, it's worth a chance. Because if you're the real saint, you and me can do business.
[100:49]
Philip Marlowe
What sort of business, Stevie?
[100:50]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, I read a lot of books about detective.
[100:53]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, I gather.
[100:53]
Doreen Dimple
Well, we ought to make a good partnership, you and me. You help me latch onto the ice and we'll Split the Reward.
[101:00]
Philip Marlowe
The ice.
[101:01]
Doreen Dimple
50 grand worth. And that ain't peanuts.
[101:04]
Philip Marlowe
Stevie, suppose you tell me about this jewelry. Just when was it taken?
[101:09]
Doreen Dimple
You don't know?
[101:10]
Philip Marlowe
No.
[101:11]
Doreen Dimple
You're not the Saint.
[101:13]
Philip Marlowe
Believe me, Stevie, the Saint doesn't know everything.
[101:15]
Doreen Dimple
Why'd you come here?
[101:16]
Philip Marlowe
To return Ming Toy.
[101:18]
Doreen Dimple
Who are you trying to kill?
[101:20]
Philip Marlowe
That's on the level.
[101:21]
Doreen Dimple
Look, mister, I happen to know you couldn't return Ming Toy. See?
[101:25]
Philip Marlowe
What do you mean, I couldn't?
[101:27]
Doreen Dimple
Never mind. But I know.
[101:29]
Philip Marlowe
If you don't believe me, ask Louie here. I thought her name was Minerva. You're always such a help, Stevie. Why do you say I couldn't return Ming Toy?
[101:36]
Doreen Dimple
I'm not talking.
[101:38]
Philip Marlowe
I don't get it. Ah, I see the look in your eye, Mr. Templer. The mystery's beginning to needle you. Stevie. Stevie. If I prove I brought back Ming Toy, will you tell me why you said I couldn't?
[101:49]
Doreen Dimple
Sure. And you won't prove it.
[101:51]
Philip Marlowe
Wait here, Louie. I'll probably hate myself in the morning, but I'm going back to the Allardyces. Come on, Stevie.
[102:06]
Doreen Dimple
Come in.
[102:09]
Philip Marlowe
Excuse me, madam. Mr. Templar is here again with the gardener's boy.
[102:13]
Doreen Dimple
The gardener's boy?
[102:14]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, madam.
[102:15]
Doreen Dimple
But he can't bring that urchin into the house.
[102:17]
Philip Marlowe
I'm very sorry, madam, but he has. Shall I throw them out?
[102:20]
Doreen Dimple
No, show them in. I'll tell him myself.
[102:22]
Philip Marlowe
Very good, madam. You may come in, Mr. Templar. Thank you, Jeeves. Bitch. Sir, I stand corrected. Well, hello again, Mrs. Elladyce.
[102:31]
Doreen Dimple
Really, Mr. Temple, this is impossible. Bringing in that. Good heavens. He's the face at the window I was just attacking. Oh, I should have recognized him at the time. Oh, Mr. Templar, you're wonderful. Positively wonderful. First Ming Toy and now the prowler. Fitch had no luck whatsoever. Simply none. You're an amazing man.
[102:51]
Philip Marlowe
Sit down.
[102:52]
Doreen Dimple
Have a chocolate.
[102:53]
Philip Marlowe
No, thanks.
[102:53]
Doreen Dimple
Yeah, thanks.
[102:54]
Philip Marlowe
If you don't mind, we'd like to see Ming Tori. Why? I forgot to say goodbye to her. Oh, well, very well.
[103:02]
Doreen Dimple
Mingy comes her mother. Mingy. Now, where is that animal? She was here, right? Just a moment ago. Mingy.
[103:08]
Philip Marlowe
Mingie. Did you call Mother?
[103:10]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Ernest. Have you seen Ming Choi?
[103:12]
Philip Marlowe
No. I thought she was in here.
[103:13]
Doreen Dimple
Well, she's not.
[103:14]
Philip Marlowe
Don't tell me she's disappeared again.
[103:16]
Doreen Dimple
So it would seem. Vanished into thin air. My poor it.
[103:19]
Philip Marlowe
A baby gone.
[103:21]
Doreen Dimple
Well, Mr. Now what have you got to say?
[103:24]
Philip Marlowe
Say, Stevie. I'm speechless. Oh, hello, Louine. Mr. Templar. How come you're answering the door? They don't have no butler. He's not around. Strange. No dog, no butler. Well, what do you want, Louie? I just come to see what's keeping you this time. My media's getting busy going round and round. Ming Toy's missing again. We're looking for her. It's a big house. She's a little dog. Why don't you just forget the whole thing? Because, Louie, it doesn't make sense. She ought to come when we call, or at least bark. Well, what do I do? Go take another nap? No. Maybe. Louie, we missed. What is it, Stevie?
[104:09]
Doreen Dimple
I take it all back. You are the same.
[104:11]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, that brings all this on.
[104:13]
Doreen Dimple
I found Ming Toy.
[104:14]
Philip Marlowe
You did?
[104:14]
Doreen Dimple
Yeah. Bend down slight and whisper. This is top secret.
[104:18]
Philip Marlowe
I'm bent.
[104:19]
Doreen Dimple
Fitch has her in the garage.
[104:20]
Philip Marlowe
What's he doing, giving her a shampoo?
[104:22]
Doreen Dimple
No, he's shaving her.
[104:24]
Philip Marlowe
Shaving her?
[104:24]
Doreen Dimple
What's an electric razor?
[104:25]
Philip Marlowe
Well, let's go get her. Come on, Louie. Oh, no, thanks, Mr. Templar. You and the kid go. Me, I'm going back to the hack for another nap. I can dream nightmares. Nightmares that make better sense than this. So long now, Stevie. When we get near the garage, let's be quiet. We don't want Fitch to hear us.
[104:53]
Doreen Dimple
Okay.
[104:53]
Philip Marlowe
Hello there. Oh, it's Ernest. I've looked all over the grounds. Can't find it. It's all right. Stevie says found her. Your butler has her in the garage. But I just saw him go back to the house. Oh, with Ming Toi? No. Why'd you take her to the garage? I guess to improve her appearance. What? Well, come on, we can soon find out. Ernest, what do you know about your butler anyway? Not much. He's only been with us a couple of weeks. What sort of references did he have? I don't know. Ask father. He engaged in. I will. And then I would like to ask you some questions. I'm still not satisfied in spite of mother. Look. Fitch has the dog, not me. I know. Hey, wait a minute. What is this? What? Right there, crouching by that bush. Can that be Ming Toy? By gosh, it is. And she's stripped clean. She's been shaved. She looks like a damp sock.
[105:46]
Doreen Dimple
Come here, Ming Toy.
[105:48]
Philip Marlowe
She just sits there shivering. I think she just embarrassed. Here, I'll get her. Come here, Mink Toy. Cold. Well, don't worry. I'll buy you mink. Here she comes. I thought that would do it. It works every. Be careful. Don't drop her. Oh, don't worry, Ernest. I shall guard Ming Toi with my life. Well, come on. What's the matter? My Legs are giving out again. Oh, she'll look out of condition, I guess. Mother.
[106:35]
Doreen Dimple
Ernest, have you found my treasure?
[106:37]
Philip Marlowe
Yes, Mother, we found it.
[106:38]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, that's wonderful.
[106:39]
Philip Marlowe
Give it a mother template. Yeah. Here.
[106:41]
Doreen Dimple
Thank you. She's naked.
[106:44]
Philip Marlowe
It seems your butler is a frustrated barber.
[106:46]
Doreen Dimple
What?
[106:46]
Philip Marlowe
Where's Father Templar? Wants to talk to him about Fish.
[106:49]
Doreen Dimple
He's in the back study. But I. I don't understand.
[106:51]
Philip Marlowe
That makes it unanimous. Look after your mother, Ernest. She's had quite a shock. Meanwhile, I'll go see if your father can help explain why Ming Toy has been forced to become a strip teaser. Don't bother me, template. Don't bother me. I've got enough on my mind. Son who gambles away every penny I give him, a wife who charge accounts away, even pennies I don't give her. Believe me, young man, anybody ever tells you it's a picnic being a millionaire. Don't you listen? Take it from me before you make a million. Just be sure you can afford it. I'll make a note of that. But about Ming talk last night. The dog is kidnapped. Or dog napped or whatever you call it. The wife throws such a tizzy it takes three pills to get me to sleep. This morning the wife jewels are gone. Another tizzy, policeman. Insurance adjusters are. Now you look. I don't care if the dog has been peeled, see? I don't care. I've got enough on my mind. But maybe it all ties together. The dog is stolen, the jewels are stolen. I can add 2 and 2. Templar, I don't need your masterminding. The dog was stolen first so the thief could break in later without the dog barking. Think I couldn't figure that out? No, no, I think you could. And it's possible the thief thought so too. What's that? I have a hunch the robbery was the work of some member of this household. Nonsense. And the dog napping was just a red herring to throw you off the track to make you think just what you did think that it was an outside rather than an inside job. Get out of here, Templar. Get out of here before I throw you off. I'd just like to ask you about Fish. Okay, fine butler, excellent. One peculiarity, that's all likes to shave dogs. So what? We can't all be perfect. Now get out of here, Templar, before I have him shave you. And it may be closer than you like. Oh, hello, Ernest. Hello, Templo. Learn anything from Father? Yeah, yeah. I learned he has a temper. Oh, he's in one of those. Uhhuh. So if I want to learn about Fitch, I'll have to learn it from Fitch himself. Only trouble is I can't find the kitchen. Is there a map of this place anywhere? It's down this way. Come on, I'll take you. I'll talk to you anyway. Thanks. So you don't have signposts. How's your mother? Sniffing, smelling salt. And Ring Toy taking it better than mother. Just keep her away from mirrors. She'll be all right. Look, Templar, I said I want to talk to you. We're talking. I want to talk about my favorite subject. It's all very well. You're pretending you want to help, but how do we know? Are we almost there? My legs are giving out again. It's right in here. Take us in the kitchen through the butler's family. Good. Don't bother calling him, Ernest. He can't hear you. Huh? Look, behind that table. Is he? Then? Extremely.
[109:52]
Doreen Dimple
Please, dear, I can't talk now. I'm so upset about Ming Toy.
[109:55]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, hang Ming Toy.
[109:57]
Doreen Dimple
Jonathan Allardyce of all.
[109:59]
Philip Marlowe
Look, I'm trying to tell you something. That man Templar, he's getting ideas. I don't like it. He's been snooping around here. The first thing we know.
[110:05]
Doreen Dimple
Well, all we have to do do is to be nice to him.
[110:07]
Philip Marlowe
Nice to him? Confound it, Isabelle, I'm going to. May I come in? No. Templar. I thought I told you to get the blazers out of this house. Oh, is that what you told me? I've been trying to figure it out, but you were so incoherent. Now, see here, if you want me to go, I'll be glad to. But I thought I ought to tell you about your butler first. Yes, yes, I know. You think he's a thief. Very well. I'll have the police. You're wrong, Mr. Allardyce. I don't think he's a thief. He's been cleared the hard way. What? Somebody murdered him. Ernest is calling the police now. Murdered him? Yep. With a knife.
[110:37]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, dear. And good butlers are so scarce these days.
[110:40]
Philip Marlowe
Ah, Jonathan.
[110:43]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Templar. What's happened to Jonathan?
[110:45]
Philip Marlowe
Looks like he's fainted.
[110:47]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, what'll we do? Get me some water.
[110:49]
Philip Marlowe
Get it yourself. I can't wait.
[110:50]
Doreen Dimple
Can't wait? Well, you can't leave me now.
[110:52]
Philip Marlowe
I've got to, or there may be another murder.
[110:54]
Doreen Dimple
No, no. Come back here later.
[110:55]
Philip Marlowe
Mrs. Elevice.
[110:56]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Mr. Templar. Oh, fetch. Oh, no, he's.
[111:00]
Philip Marlowe
Somebody. Please.
[111:01]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, dear. Oh, dear.
[111:19]
Philip Marlowe
Louie. What now? Mr. Templar, have you seen Stevie? Defied there's gonna be a murder if we don't. There's gonna be a murder, Stevie. Yeah. I'm glad to hear it. You know what that kid done? He scrambled the wires in the engine while I was snoozing. That's why we wouldn't start, people detective. In Louie, we were possible suspects and he wanted to foil our getaway. Well, wasn't that cube. I'm not joking. His life is in danger. I'm not surprised. If I can't find Stevie, I'll have to find Ernest. Who's he? Amadis's son. I wonder if he's the one drove away. Just now. Drove away? Did someone. Yeah, yeah. Car just went for down the other drive. Have you got your wires Unscrambled? Oh, yeah. All right, Louie, let's go. It headed this way. That's all I know. And you don't know if Stevie was in the car? I don't know who was in the car. I didn't see. He must be. It's the only thing that makes sense. Now what? The road branches three ways. Which way do we go? Oh, oh, oh. There we are. They went that away to the left. How do you know? There's fresh tire tracks. The others are old. Oh, yeah. And step on it, Louie. Okay, pulling your ears. Here we go. But I would still like to know what's going on. We look out for that turn. Close your eyes and pray, Mr. Dunko. Here we go. Got your eyes open, Mr. Templer? Yeah, yeah, we made it. Oh, good. Then I can open mine. Louie. Louie. Is that the car you saw coming out of Allardyces? Looks like. That's good. But I hope we're not too late. Nobody in it? No. There's a path into the woods. Come on. Yes. Hurry up, Louie. Right through here. I'm afraid to call the kid for fifth. I'd still like to know what's going on. Well. Well, as I see it, Louie. Yeah? Ernest ran up a gambling debt and his papa wouldn't pay off for him. At any rate, Papa was griping about Ernest's gambling. Ernest, I take it, is Allardyce Jr. Yeah, that's right. Ernest had to get money, so he drove Ming Toy away from home and put her out of the car. Then he swiped the family jewels and the missing dog. Made it look like an outside job. Smart guy. Junior. What makes you think he's gonna knock off the kid? He's already knocked off. Knocked off the butler. Oh, yeah. How do you know it was Ernest which knocked off the butler? Because When I told Allardyce, he fainted. And he didn't faint out of great feeling, for the butler. Fellow had only been with him a couple of weeks. He fainted because he knew his son was guilty of the robbery. And he realized his son was also a murderer. Stevie, where'd you come from? Stevie, you all right?
[114:17]
Doreen Dimple
Well, sure I'm all right, but Ernest don't feel so good.
[114:20]
Philip Marlowe
Mr. Temple. Look, Ernest is all.
[114:23]
Doreen Dimple
Yeah, you know something? Herman should have his mouth washed out with soap. Why, Stevie, he doesn't tell the truth.
[114:28]
Philip Marlowe
Well, what do you mean?
[114:29]
Doreen Dimple
Well, last night I seen him driving away with Ming Toy. And when I asked where he was taking her, he says, shh. It's a big secret. Spies have tattooed a secret message on her skin. But he found out and he's taken her to the FBI. And I mustn't tell nobody because it's FBI top secret.
[114:50]
Philip Marlowe
I see.
[114:50]
Doreen Dimple
But I find out now he was just trying to shut me up.
[114:53]
Philip Marlowe
Hey, I gotta remember that next time my nephew gets in my hair. FBI, top secret. Hey, Louis. Then that explains the shaving, huh? The butler must have overheard Ernest telling this young man about the secret message on Ming Toi. And he figured if it was true, the dog would be worth money. So we looked for the message. Sure, when the butler shaves the pooch, Ernest gets wiser. Butler is wise, so he shuts the butler up.
[115:15]
Doreen Dimple
And he tried to shut me up too. He said we were going to meet an FBI man out here. Instead, he gets me in and then he pulls out a knife.
[115:24]
Philip Marlowe
And then. And what happened?
[115:26]
Doreen Dimple
Judo.
[115:26]
Philip Marlowe
Judo?
[115:27]
Doreen Dimple
Sure. My brother was in a Marines. He taught me. Herness is waking up.
[115:33]
Philip Marlowe
And you were worried about the kid. Mr. Templar, like I told you, when them little hyenas is around, all you got to protect is yourself.
[115:41]
Doreen Dimple
Hey, Mr. Templar, you want me to teach you some flaws?
[115:44]
Philip Marlowe
As a matter of fact, Stevie, I don't.
[115:45]
Doreen Dimple
It's easy. Look, I'll show you. First you take a guy's arm like this.
[115:49]
Philip Marlowe
Now, just a minute. Let's. Let's talk this over.
[115:52]
Doreen Dimple
You see?
[115:52]
Philip Marlowe
Leverage.
[115:53]
Doreen Dimple
The important part of this.
[115:55]
Philip Marlowe
Let's keep it that way, shall we?
[115:56]
Doreen Dimple
I just pulled back real hard.
[115:58]
Philip Marlowe
Louie, help. You have been listening to another transcribed Adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime. Now here is our star, Barry Sullivan. Ladies and gentlemen, a long time ago it was written that man shall not live by bread alone. In this often quoted line from the Bible, bread is merely a symbol of all material values. And although we in America have the greatest material advantages in the world. They are not enough to bring us complete happiness. We must find that happiness in our spiritual as well as our material lives, in faith as well as bread. In America, one of our most precious heritages is the right to worship as we please to know the spiritual pleasures of our churches and synagogues. The doors of your places of worship stand open to you, and your religious leaders will welcome you to their services. They also offer you personal and family guidance and the opportunity to become a firm part of your community. Through our churches and synagogues, that community and the families within it can find stability. And as an individual, you can find the peace that only religion can bring. Thus, the religious organizations of America invite you to find yourself through faith and come to church this week. This is Barry Sullivan inviting you to join us again next week at the same time for another exciting adventure of the Saint Good. Tonight's script of the Saint was written by Jerome Epstein. In the cast you heard myra marsh as Mrs. Allardyce and Tom Tully as her husband. Lamont Johnson was their son, Ernest. Ted Osborne was the butler, Jeffrey Silver was Stevie and Larry Dodkin was Louie. The music was composed and conducted by Von Dexter. The Saints, based on characters created by Leslie Charteris, is a James L. Safier production and is directed by Helen Mack. 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. Free chimes mean good times on NBC. And the chimes are anticipating the hilarious antics of Bob Hope and Groucho Marx. Hope returns to the air with more laughs on Tuesday, October 3rd. Groucho Marx brings his riotous quiz, you bet your life to the air on Wednesday, October 4th. So that's Bob Hope. October 3rd. Groucho Marx. October 4th. Yes, three chimes mean good times on NBC. Esquire Boot Polish and Bargain starring as Barry Craig, Confidential Investigator. Murder can be a very tough have one consolation. It's not you who comes home at the end of a day's work and says to the the wife and kitties people, I'm dead. Esquire Boot polish, the shoe polish that lanolizes your shoes and gives you the brightest shine and the fastest time. And Bromo Seltzer, famous for fast relief of headache and upset stomach, present William Gargan in another transcribed drama of mystery and adventure with America's number one detective, Barry Craig. Confidential Investigator. This is Bill Goggin. Before I tell you about tonight's story, which I call Beware the Walking Dog, I'd like to tell you that if you've been baffled trying to get your children's scraped shoes looking new again, try Self Polishing Esquire Brushless Scuff Coat. Tell them about it, Rex Marshall. Why, of course I will. Mothers, throw away the brush, throw away the cloth, throw away all the work. Because now shining children's scuff shoes is the easiest job around the house. Just get a bottle of miracle Self Polishing Esquire Brushless Scuff Coat, the most wonderful polish ever made for children's scuff shoes. You see, unlike an ordinary liquid polish, Esquire Brushless doesn't just put a surface smear on your children's shoes, but it gets right down into those scuffs and scrapes and actually puts a new finish on the leather. Say, listen to this. Esquire Brushless dries bright without rubbing. That's right. Just apply and it dries bright thanks to the miracle ingredient Oxalan B. That does all the work for you. It brings up the shine and keeps those shoes soft and natural looking. So remember now, to make your children's scuffed shoes look new again without any work at all for you, Get Esquire Brushless Scuff Coat in any color you need. Look for the bright yellow circus package. Barry Craig speaking. You're a confidentialist? Investigator. To prove it, you've got more kinds of headaches than even the psychiatrists have counted. Take the one I acquired late this afternoon. Silhouettes through a frosted glass door don't tell you much. Except hers did what it told me was not an investigator's business. I'm in. On the other hand, the business day was almost over. The silhouette hadn't lied. Even without the mink tossed carelessly around her shoulders, she would have slowed up any parade.
[122:11]
Doreen Dimple
You in a trance or something? Look, mister, all I want from you is the answer to just one question. How anxious are you not to get killed?
[122:21]
Philip Marlowe
Huh?
[122:22]
Doreen Dimple
He is alive.
[122:23]
Philip Marlowe
Who is? Oh, me.
[122:25]
Doreen Dimple
A while back there I was beginning.
[122:27]
Philip Marlowe
To worry I wasn't a trance.
[122:29]
Doreen Dimple
Uh huh.
[122:31]
Philip Marlowe
Sometimes I spend days in a trance.
[122:32]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Craig?
[122:34]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah?
[122:34]
Doreen Dimple
I asked you a question.
[122:36]
Philip Marlowe
Well, that's right, you did.
[122:38]
Doreen Dimple
How anxious are you not to get killed?
[122:40]
Philip Marlowe
Very anxious.
[122:41]
Doreen Dimple
That's good.
[122:42]
Philip Marlowe
I was afraid you might be disappointed.
[122:44]
Doreen Dimple
Oh no, because I don't want anyone to get killed. On account of Caesar.
[122:48]
Philip Marlowe
On account of Caesar? He happened quite some time ago.
[122:52]
Doreen Dimple
Huh?
[122:52]
Philip Marlowe
Well, never mind. I. I guess we're not talking about the same Caesar.
[122:55]
Doreen Dimple
I guess not. Mine's only a puppy.
[122:57]
Philip Marlowe
Only mine was a Roman of Course.
[123:00]
Doreen Dimple
He'S a pretty big puppy. Sure, and he behaves just like a gentleman.
[123:04]
Philip Marlowe
Fine.
[123:06]
Doreen Dimple
I guess you'll be pretty expensive, won't you?
[123:09]
Philip Marlowe
Depends on what you.
[123:10]
Doreen Dimple
Would $500 be enough?
[123:13]
Philip Marlowe
For what?
[123:14]
Doreen Dimple
For walking Caesar.
[123:21]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe it was because she was beautiful that I didn't promptly toss her out of the office. Or it could have been the 500 she mentioned. It was probably the 500. You want to hire me to walk your dog for $500? Just how far do you expect me to walk him?
[123:37]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, just to the park and back. I live at the Grover apartments on East 74th, so it's not terribly far.
[123:42]
Philip Marlowe
I know the place.
[123:43]
Doreen Dimple
My name's Doreen Dimple. I'm in apartment 14C.
[123:47]
Philip Marlowe
Wait a minute.
[123:47]
Doreen Dimple
Can I live?
[123:48]
Philip Marlowe
The 500 is for one round trip.
[123:51]
Doreen Dimple
Well, not exactly. Because after all, if that was the only thing, why should I hire a confidential investigator?
[123:58]
Philip Marlowe
You know something, Doreen?
[123:59]
Doreen Dimple
What?
[124:00]
Philip Marlowe
That same thought's already occurred to me.
[124:02]
Doreen Dimple
Corky was right. He said you were smart.
[124:05]
Philip Marlowe
Who's Corky?
[124:06]
Doreen Dimple
A gentleman friend.
[124:08]
Philip Marlowe
How does he sign his name?
[124:09]
Doreen Dimple
With a pen.
[124:11]
Philip Marlowe
Hmm. Never mind. You were getting ready to tell me why you decided to hire an investigator to walk your dog.
[124:18]
Doreen Dimple
Well, the last couple of times I walked Caesar, somebody tried to shoot him.
[124:23]
Philip Marlowe
Missed. You're sure it was the dog they were shooting at?
[124:27]
Doreen Dimple
Am I sure it was Mr. Craig?
[124:30]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah.
[124:31]
Doreen Dimple
Can you imagine a man shooting at me?
[124:34]
Philip Marlowe
Not easily. It. There could have been a woman though.
[124:37]
Doreen Dimple
I saw the man. He was too far away for me to recognize. But it was a man.
[124:43]
Philip Marlowe
We let it go at that. You want me to walk the dog until I find out who's taking potshots at him?
[124:48]
Doreen Dimple
That's right.
[124:49]
Philip Marlowe
You mentioned 500.
[124:52]
Doreen Dimple
Here.
[124:53]
Philip Marlowe
Thank you. What time does Caesar prefer?
[124:56]
Doreen Dimple
Around 8 o' clock at night.
[124:58]
Philip Marlowe
I'll be over at your place then.
[124:59]
Doreen Dimple
I'm so glad.
[125:02]
Philip Marlowe
By the way, Doreen, you in show business?
[125:06]
Doreen Dimple
How did you guess?
[125:07]
Philip Marlowe
Professional secret. Not to mention Doreen Dimple.
[125:10]
Doreen Dimple
That's me.
[125:11]
Philip Marlowe
I know. It's also an incredible name.
[125:14]
Doreen Dimple
It is not. I made it up.
[125:15]
Philip Marlowe
That's what I meant. You at liberty now?
[125:19]
Doreen Dimple
Well, I've retired actually.
[125:21]
Philip Marlowe
Oh. Corky's idea.
[125:24]
Doreen Dimple
Uh huh. He was afraid if I kept on working I might catch pneumonia.
[125:28]
Philip Marlowe
Well, that's always the danger in theatrical work.
[125:32]
Doreen Dimple
Sure. A girl so excited, exposed.
[125:34]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah. Well, so long, Doreen. I'll see you at 8.
[125:38]
Doreen Dimple
So long. Me and Caesar will be expecting you.
[125:47]
Philip Marlowe
I could have dignified the entire thing in my mind by figuring I was going to be shot at when I took the pooch for a stroll. But I suspected it was Doreen who was target for the week and I just turned out to be nursemaid. But there was always one possibility. Caesar might bite. Hello, Jake. Hey. Hope I didn't disturb you. I wasn't doing nothing. Crops on Madison Avenue don't need attention. They've all gone home for the day. That's too bad, Jake. Yeah, you can start now. Oh, I keep forgetting. Speaking of crops, did you notice my client? Yeah. Why have you got your eyes closed resting them? I know what you mean. Her name's Doreen Dimple. I don't know about the Doreen, but I got a Jake, remember? That's not the kind of thing they approve of in Vermont. That's why I left Vermont. I go to work for Doreen tonight at 8. Her apartment need help? I don't think so, Jake. Thanks. Anyway, all I have to do is walk her dog. Is that so? Yeah. Feels like I still got language difficulties with you New Yorkers, Jake. Walking Doreen's dog means nothing else but that. Oh, well, then maybe you'll enjoy the company. The dogs? No, no. The fella that was waiting for her fellow. Who. They go up together? Yep. Probably a friend of hers. Yeah. No reason for me to worry about him, is there? I don't know. Either he was built funny or. Or what? He was carrying a revolver. Jake sometimes suffers from delusions of melodrama. I shrugged him off, went home, ate, changed into my dog walking and at 8 o' clock.
[127:49]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Craig.
[127:50]
Philip Marlowe
Ms. Dimple.
[127:51]
Doreen Dimple
Huh? Oh, you mean me.
[127:53]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah.
[127:54]
Doreen Dimple
Come in. You called me Doreen at the office.
[127:59]
Philip Marlowe
I'm always informal at the office.
[128:01]
Doreen Dimple
Well, you better keep on being informal. Because if you call me Miss Dimple, I won't know who you're talking to. Even my mother didn't call me Miss Dimple.
[128:08]
Philip Marlowe
Well, could you quiet that monster?
[128:10]
Doreen Dimple
That?
[128:11]
Philip Marlowe
My mistake. How about quieting him?
[128:14]
Doreen Dimple
Well, he always barks like that unless he's been introduced. So come on. He won't fight. I think he's got weak teeth. Caesar, this is Mr. Craig.
[128:24]
Philip Marlowe
How do you do?
[128:25]
Doreen Dimple
I think he's gonna like you.
[128:27]
Philip Marlowe
Well, that's nice. I might have a little trouble hauling him around the streets.
[128:31]
Doreen Dimple
Otherwise he'll be very good.
[128:33]
Philip Marlowe
So I can concentrate on trouble. From somebody else, maybe.
[128:36]
Doreen Dimple
From who?
[128:37]
Philip Marlowe
You probably know his name better than I do.
[128:40]
Doreen Dimple
I don't.
[128:40]
Philip Marlowe
You meet anyone when you left my office this afternoon? No, my mistake. Let's go, Caesar. Hey, I hope the leash holds. I left my elephant gun Home.
[128:53]
Doreen Dimple
You be careful, Mr. Crane.
[128:54]
Philip Marlowe
Sure.
[128:55]
Doreen Dimple
And you're not worried?
[128:56]
Philip Marlowe
No. After all, what have I got to lose except Caesar's life? The nice thing about walking a dog as big as Caesar is that nobody sneers at you. For $500, I can be sneered at, but I don't insist on it. The streets were kind of quiet and cold. Nothing happened until we got to the park. All that happened then was that Caesar got excited. All those trees. He got over them after a while and we started back, which was maybe a mistake. Doreen Dimple had warned me that at times like this I was philosophical about Caesar's danger. Until one of the bullets removed my hat. At which point I gave up philosophy and took up diving. This made me a lousy target. The unseen gunman must have been annoyed he parked his car in the road leading through the park. I guess because I heard him taking off. At least I hoped it was. He must have been. The barrage was over. I dug myself out of the ground and headed for home. Caesar's home, Doreen's home. Maybe somebody else's home, too. I now had a hole in my hat. This night entitled me to a few more girlish confidences with Doreen. It entitled me to a new hat. Anyway, the lady may be occupied. Caesar, on the other hand, the lady gave us no warning. Well, door's not locked. The lady must be trusting. Oh, something's holding the door back. Something heavy and. Hey. Yeah, Doreen. Her body was up against the door. That kept it shut. Take it easy. It's a body, but it's still got life in it. Life and a big bruise on the head. Doreen. Hey, you better take it slow. I'll help you up.
[131:06]
Doreen Dimple
I don't feel good.
[131:07]
Philip Marlowe
You shouldn't have hit whatever you did hit with your head.
[131:10]
Doreen Dimple
I didn't hit anything. I was hit.
[131:13]
Philip Marlowe
By whom?
[131:13]
Doreen Dimple
I didn't see. The doorbell rang, I opened the door and it happened so fast.
[131:19]
Philip Marlowe
Burglar, Maybe.
[131:20]
Doreen Dimple
I guess so. I wouldn't know.
[131:22]
Philip Marlowe
Well, we'll find out. I think maybe it's time we got out of the foyer, huh?
[131:27]
Doreen Dimple
I just remembered. Corky was visiting. He was in the living room when I answered the door. Maybe he caught the burglar.
[131:33]
Philip Marlowe
Or maybe he didn't. Let's go see.
[131:34]
Doreen Dimple
All right. Although Corky wouldn't have left me lying on the floor.
[131:39]
Philip Marlowe
Oh, sure.
[131:40]
Doreen Dimple
He's a gentleman.
[131:41]
Philip Marlowe
And gentlemen never leave ladies lying on the floor. What's Corky's full name?
[131:46]
Doreen Dimple
J. Fotherington Bruce.
[131:48]
Philip Marlowe
Obviously a gentleman. Nothing in the name suggests Corky, though.
[131:52]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, that was because his greatest fun was pulling corks out of bottles.
[131:57]
Philip Marlowe
Nice living room.
[131:58]
Doreen Dimple
But Corky isn't here.
[132:00]
Philip Marlowe
Milk bottles don't come with corks. Your friend was a souse.
[132:05]
Doreen Dimple
Corky was a gentleman.
[132:07]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah, I just noticed it too. The foot sticking out from behind the window. Draperies stay where you are. Who?
[132:17]
Doreen Dimple
Who is it?
[132:19]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe 50. Gray at the temples, red at the nose, paunchy in the midsection.
[132:23]
Doreen Dimple
Corky.
[132:24]
Philip Marlowe
Corky. He didn't catch a burglar though.
[132:27]
Doreen Dimple
What?
[132:28]
Philip Marlowe
What he caught was a bullet in Back to William Gargan starring as Barry Craig in just a moment. But first a word from Bromo Saltzer, famous for fast relief of upset stomach as well as headache.
[132:53]
Doreen Dimple
Ms. Jordan, report to clinic.
[132:55]
Philip Marlowe
Ms. Jordan, report to Clinic. Ms. Jordan. In recent clinical research, nurses reported that sparkling, refreshing Bromo seltzer relieve distress of stomach acidity and nervous indigestion better more effectively than other leading upset stomach remedies tested. You see, Bromo Seltzer contains sodium citrate, one of the finest ingredients known to doctors for the relief of acid indigestion. And only Bromo seltzer gently relieves nervous tension so often associated with upset stomach. Next time you have acid indigestion, take Bromo Seltzer. Like so many nurses, you too may agree for upset stomach, Bromo Seltzer works best. Remember, for prompt relief of stomach acidity as well as headache, take sparkling refreshing Bromo Seltzer. For best results, use cool water. Follow the label. Avoid excessive use. And next time your stomach is upset, remember that many nurses report for upset stomach. Bromo Seltzer works best, you know. Back to William Gargan starring as Barry Craig, confidential investigator. Corky, who in life had been J. Frothington Bruce, would uncork no more battles bullets in the heart. It seemed to that I phoned homicide and told them about it. They said they were busy, but seeing as it was me, they'd be right over. Doreen and I waited. Need a handkerchief?
[134:34]
Doreen Dimple
No.
[134:35]
Philip Marlowe
Dry type tears.
[134:36]
Doreen Dimple
Don't be mean. This is not the time. A girl likes a fellow to be mean to her.
[134:40]
Philip Marlowe
Was Corky ever mean to you?
[134:43]
Doreen Dimple
Gosh, no. He was.
[134:44]
Philip Marlowe
I know, I know. A gentleman.
[134:46]
Doreen Dimple
He even remembered me in his will.
[134:48]
Philip Marlowe
How hard did he remember you?
[134:50]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, something like $50,000.
[134:53]
Philip Marlowe
What's like $50,000?
[134:55]
Doreen Dimple
$50,000.
[134:57]
Philip Marlowe
What's his wife going to say about that?
[134:59]
Doreen Dimple
I don't care what she. Mr. Craig, how did you know Corky was married?
[135:04]
Philip Marlowe
The Corky's of this world Always are. Did she approve of his helping you leave show business?
[135:10]
Doreen Dimple
She didn't have any reason not to. There was nothing wrong between Corky and me. He was a.
[135:15]
Philip Marlowe
Whatever he was, he's dead now and somebody killed him. Were you under the impression he died of old age?
[135:22]
Doreen Dimple
I knew he'd been shot. But Mr. Craig. Are the police gonna think I killed him on account of we were alone in the apartment?
[135:29]
Philip Marlowe
That's going to be up to the police. Is there a back door?
[135:33]
Doreen Dimple
Uh huh. From the kitchen.
[135:34]
Philip Marlowe
Lead me to it.
[135:35]
Doreen Dimple
All right.
[135:40]
Philip Marlowe
Well? Latched from the inside.
[135:43]
Doreen Dimple
Is that important?
[135:44]
Philip Marlowe
It makes your story sound a lot better. It explains why your visitor used the front door and took a chance on being seen by you.
[135:52]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, the back door was latched. Mr. Craig, you're a darling.
[135:56]
Philip Marlowe
I look terrible in lipstick, though.
[135:58]
Doreen Dimple
I like the effect.
[136:00]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe, but the police won't. So you better give them my regard.
[136:04]
Doreen Dimple
Mr. Craig, where are you going?
[136:05]
Philip Marlowe
To tell a widow the sad news. If it's sad or if it's news. I know enough to wait for the police on a murder case. But sometimes it's better not to know too much. Because people who don't know too much sometimes get told.
[136:28]
Doreen Dimple
Yes.
[136:29]
Philip Marlowe
It's pretty late. I know it's very late. If we spend much time out on this doorstep, it'll be later still. Maybe too late.
[136:36]
Doreen Dimple
Too late for what?
[136:36]
Philip Marlowe
A heart to heart talk before the police arrive. Are they arriving? Pretty soon.
[136:43]
Doreen Dimple
I won't pretend I know what this is about, but come in.
[136:46]
Philip Marlowe
Thanks. You're Mrs. Bruce. I am. I figured you for at least 20 years older and a lot less decorative.
[136:55]
Doreen Dimple
Thank you.
[136:57]
Philip Marlowe
This way. I'm a little worried.
[136:58]
Doreen Dimple
What about?
[137:00]
Philip Marlowe
The way I had it set up. You were supposed to be as old as your husband. Not the kind of woman who could stir a pulse anymore. And I'm having trouble with mine.
[137:10]
Doreen Dimple
This way. You had it set up? Set up for what?
[137:15]
Philip Marlowe
The murder of your husband. Pretty brutal. Excuse me.
[137:21]
Doreen Dimple
It doesn't matter.
[137:22]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe it does. You're not shedding any tears. Phony one.
[137:26]
Doreen Dimple
I wish I could, but.
[137:28]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah, the book of etiquette calls for them. But it's better this way.
[137:33]
Doreen Dimple
Better? More honest perhaps. But hard?
[137:35]
Philip Marlowe
My business. I don't run into honesty so often. I'm calloused about it. You've been home the last couple of hours?
[137:42]
Doreen Dimple
Yes. Is that when.
[137:44]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah. Anybody around who can verify that?
[137:48]
Doreen Dimple
Why?
[137:48]
Philip Marlowe
You'll need a verification. You inherit, don't you?
[137:52]
Doreen Dimple
I suppose so.
[137:54]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe the guy trying to imitate wallpaper behind those curtains might help. I spotted him the minute I walked in.
[137:59]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Briar.
[138:02]
Philip Marlowe
A pity he was so observant, Helen. Depends on how you look at it. Why the act? Did you think maybe it was her husband ringing the doorbell? Her husband never rings. My name is Anthony Breyer. I'm an attorney at law. How do you do? Mrs. Bruce was considering a divorce. Uh huh. Because she's a bad shot. What do you mean? Because she missed Doreen a couple of times when the blonde was out walking the dog. I don't know, Anthony. Well, there's no reason to bear our souls to to this keyhole peeper. No, there isn't.
[138:29]
Doreen Dimple
We knew about Doreen. She was going to be named in my suit. Corky didn't keep her very much of a secret.
[138:34]
Philip Marlowe
The scoundrel even named her in his will. I know. I still don't know though, why you ducked for cover when I rang the doorbell.
[138:40]
Doreen Dimple
That's easily explained. We were afraid you might be someone working for my husband. You see, he's accused me of.
[138:50]
Philip Marlowe
With Brian?
[138:52]
Doreen Dimple
Yes.
[138:52]
Philip Marlowe
How true. Is it? Why you. Oh, come on, let's act like we're grown up. Well, I am very much in love with Mrs. Bruce. Always have been. But she's not. The jury might believe that. Or it might not.
[139:07]
Doreen Dimple
A jury?
[139:08]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe I'd better repeat myself. Your husband was murdered in Doreen's apartment. Mrs. Bruce doesn't know where. Boy, both of you know. If you were going to name her in a divorce suit, you'd have had a detective on her. Look, I put up a very bad performance for a lawyer. Mrs. Bruce. Maybe better look for somebody else. Good night.
[139:26]
Doreen Dimple
Wait.
[139:27]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah?
[139:28]
Doreen Dimple
You haven't told me your name.
[139:30]
Philip Marlowe
Barry Craig.
[139:32]
Doreen Dimple
You said something about honesty, Mr. Craig. Anthony was not here with me for the last two hours. He came just a few minutes before you, Helen.
[139:40]
Philip Marlowe
There was no necessity. You've kind of deprived him of an alibi, haven't you, Mrs. Bruce?
[139:44]
Doreen Dimple
I suppose so.
[139:45]
Philip Marlowe
As well as yourself. Good night. I had it all now. It didn't make a pretty picture. And of all the people involved, the one I felt sorry for was cocky. He hadn't much of a life with a wife who despised him, a lawyer who hated him, and Doreen who had a price tag attached. Maybe the bullet that had killed him had done him a favor. But whoever fired that bullet hadn't done it out of kindness. Good evening, Lieutenant Rogers. Gracious of you to drop in at headquarters, Mr. Crane. Don't be bitter, Trav. Want me to spread the news around that you can read Latin? Millions of people can read Latin. How many of them are policemen? All right, so I've got a shameful past. I went to college. Where did you go? Atlantic City. I was young and foolish. After you left the Dimple apartment, I visited the Bruce apartment and met the widow. The widow and the lawyer. But you must have men there by now, getting their stories. I have. You gave Mrs. Bruce a nice opportunity to rehearse. Your men ought to be grateful. Who enjoys a lousy performance when it's given by someone suspected of murder? The district attorney. Is Doreen being held? No, nothing positive against her. How about her boyfriend, Joe Stover? In the clear. He was in Brooklyn at the important time. Being wrapped up on a speeding charge. No possible doubt. No possible doubt. Sure, he carries a gun, but. Barry. Yeah? How did you know about a boyfriend? He wasn't at the apartment when you were there? No, but a dame like Doreen always carries a boyfriend on the side. He must have had more reason than that. Jake spotted Doreen chatting with a loaded lad right after she'd been to see me at the office. All right. Means nothing, though. He's not in the picture at all. So far as the killing goes. Okay. Oh, Trav. Yes? Got a guard on Doreen's apartment? Yeah. Send him home to his family, huh? Why? Maybe his family loves him. The answer is no. Maybe I'll take his place. Somebody might not recognize me. Somebody might be just as anxious to get Doreen as Bruce. Somebody might make a stab at it. Send the guard home. The answer is yes. Who?
[142:23]
Doreen Dimple
Oh, Mr. Craig?
[142:25]
Philip Marlowe
Yes? Mind if I come in?
[142:26]
Doreen Dimple
Of course not. I'm glad you came.
[142:31]
Philip Marlowe
Thanks.
[142:32]
Doreen Dimple
Not only because you're nice, but because the policeman who was on guard went home. I was sort of frightened.
[142:38]
Philip Marlowe
Shouldn't have been. You've got Caesar.
[142:41]
Doreen Dimple
He's cute, but I don't think he'd be much protection.
[142:43]
Philip Marlowe
Maybe not.
[142:45]
Doreen Dimple
Barry, why did you really come here?
[142:48]
Philip Marlowe
Just a hunch. I thought maybe whoever didn't like Bruce mightn't like you either. I might be able to discourage him or her.
[142:56]
Doreen Dimple
Mrs. Bruce, maybe.
[142:58]
Philip Marlowe
Or maybe Briar. Who's that lawyer in love with Mrs. Bruce. You ever meet either of them?
[143:05]
Doreen Dimple
No.
[143:06]
Philip Marlowe
They were never here. At the apartment?
[143:08]
Doreen Dimple
No.
[143:09]
Philip Marlowe
Doesn't mean anything. Either of them could have paid you a visit while you were out.
[143:13]
Doreen Dimple
The police think that they were.
[143:15]
Philip Marlowe
The police are keeping an open mind. Mrs. Bruce and Briar both had motive and opportunity, so, for that matter, had you.
[143:22]
Doreen Dimple
But. But I was unconscious.
[143:23]
Philip Marlowe
You could have donated the bruise to yourself.
[143:27]
Doreen Dimple
Is that what you think?
[143:28]
Philip Marlowe
No. I'm sure someone else slugged you. But there's no proof. If there was, you'd be in the clear. You better go on to bed. It's late.
[143:36]
Doreen Dimple
But how can I prove it was someone else who hit me?
[143:39]
Philip Marlowe
You can't. Go on to bed.
[143:42]
Doreen Dimple
All right. You're going to wait?
[143:46]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah. Caesar will keep me company. Good night.
[143:50]
Doreen Dimple
Good night.
[143:59]
Philip Marlowe
I didn't think it would be too long a wait. It wasn't. And I had more than Caesar to keep me company.
[144:04]
Doreen Dimple
I couldn't sleep. Mr. Craig, do you think. Oh, somebody.
[144:10]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah.
[144:11]
Doreen Dimple
Should I?
[144:12]
Philip Marlowe
Yeah, go ahead. See who it is. Nobody's going to try anything in the car there. It's too exposed. All right, Caesar. You'll have to excuse me. I'm using the back door. Sometimes you meet more people that way. All you have to do is move up to the bend in the corridor where it leads to the front door of the apartment and wait until he gets in sight. Then you get in his way with a fish. And you've met Joe Stover. He's out, the gun in his pocket, still warm. You take it for company. Move up the corridor to Doreen's apartment, go inside the half open door, bend over the body on the floor and make sure it's only a flesh wound the girl's got. It's only a flesh wound. So it turns out you were right. The gamble paid off. You don't bother trying to bring her to. You go into the living room, take a peek into the bedroom to make sure there's a phone in it. There is. Then you call the police. To pick up a murderer? No, not Joe Stover. Doreen. So you see, Trav, as soon as I told her the bruise on the her head wouldn't be good enough proof, she ducked into her bedroom, phone stolen, told him to come over and shoot her in the shoulder. That would be very good proof that she hadn't hit herself on the head. As she hadn't Stover done that too, setting up the picture? Yeah, I was pretty sure she was the one all along. She brought me in to prove someone was after her. Who would have bothered? Except the jealous wife we were supposed to think Stover shot at you in the park. He'd have known where and when you'd be there. And then scrammed to set up an alibi. Right. Doreen made a small mistake, though. Started me thinking about her. When I got back to the apartment, I couldn't get the door open without pushing her unconscious body aside. The Killer hadn't left via the back door. It was latched. So she couldn't have fallen down in that position I found her in, blocking the front door. No, she must have put herself there. It's a small mistake, but a good one. Although you did take a chance when the doorbell rang, Barry. You might have been wrong. It might have been Mrs. Bruce O' Briar. Uh, I'd already found out that they'd never been to the apartment, Never met Doreen. When that doorbell rang, Caesar didn't bark, but he always barked when strangers came to the door. Hmm. That made it certain it was Stover. Nice, Barry. No. I don't like it when a client turns out to be a killer. You've been listening to William Gargan in another exciting transcribe missed drama from the adventures of Barry Craig, confidential investigator. Tonight's story, beware the walking dog, was written by louvittis. Next week, it's the strange story titled sniper's bullet, about which Barry Craig has this to say. Next week, a bakery worker who is absolutely crazy about dough becomes a problem to his never loving family when his death catches them totally unprepared with an alibi. Good night, folks. See you next week. Esquire boot polish, the shoe polish that lanolizes your shoes and gives the brightest shine in the fastest time. And bromo salcer, famous for fast relief of headache and upset stomach, have presented Barry Craig, confidential investigator, starring William gargan. Featured in the role of Doreen was Jane webb. Carl Caruso speaking.
[148:32]
Boston Blackie
Tonight. Enjoy meet the press on NBC.
[148:48]
Philip Marlowe
We just heard Boston blackie, Sherlock Holmes, Philip Marlowe, the saint and Barry Craig. That will do it for this week's show. Thanks so much for joining me. I hope you'll be back next week for more old time radio mysteries. In the meantime, you can check out stars on suspense, my other old time radio podcast. If you like what you're hearing, don't be a stranger. You can rate and review the show in apple podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com meansts OTR. I'll be back next week with more old time radio detectives. But until then, good night and happy listening. Now here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen. In a prejudice filled America, no one would be secure in his job, his business, his church or his home. Yet racial and religious antagonisms are exploited daily by quacks and adventurers whose followers make up the irresponsible lunatic fringe of American life. Refuse to listen to or spread rumors against any race or religion. Help to stamp out prejudice in our country. Let's judge our neighbors by the character of their lives alone and not on the basis of their religion or origin.