Episode 650 - Leading Men of Mystery: Alan Ladd (Box 13 & Screen Director's Playhouse)

Summary

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Down These Mean Streets (Old Time Radio Detectives)

Episode 650: Leading Men of Mystery: Alan Ladd (Box 13 & Screen Director's Playhouse)
Release Date: January 4, 2026

Episode Overview

This special episode launches a month-long series celebrating “Leading Men of Mystery”—Hollywood stars who also voiced iconic radio detectives. The host begins the series with Alan Ladd, known for his hard-boiled film roles and as the voice of Dan Holliday in Box 13. The episode features two complete “Box 13” radio mysteries—“The Treasure of Hang Lee” and “Sealed Instructions”—with Alan Ladd in the lead, followed by a radio adaptation of the western Whispering Smith from the Screen Director's Playhouse, reuniting Ladd with his classic film character.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introduction to Alan Ladd & Box 13

(Host, 00:59–03:00)

• Alan Ladd: Described as a “cool, tough customer” in noir films (This Gun for Hire, The Blue Dahlia, The Glass Key) and the legendary “Shane” in westerns.
• Box 13: Ladd’s radio persona, Dan Holliday, is a mystery writer who advertises for adventures. “Adventure wanted, will go anyplace, do anything, write box 13.”
• This episode features two Box 13 stories: "Treasure of Hang Lee" and "Sealed Instructions", plus a recreation of Whispering Smith from Screen Director's Playhouse.

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Box 13: “The Treasure of Hang Lee”

(Begins at 06:41)

Set-up & Hook

• Dan Holliday receives a cryptic letter inviting him to buy a specific piece of jade from a Chinatown shop, following special instructions.
• Susie, his secretary, wonders: “Why should you reject the first two pieces?” (08:09)
• Holliday deduces it's a method of signaling the sender:

  “Well if I follow instructions, follow them exactly, I’ll be tipping myself to someone in the store.” – Dan Holliday (08:31)

The Jade Shop

• At Quan Hai’s Chinatown shop, Holliday follows the mysterious script, ultimately introduced to Mr. Kwan in a locked treasure-filled room.
• Mr. Kwan delivers philosophical wisdom on jade:

  “Confucius said that jade is like truth. It gives out a bright rainbow and it shows a pure spirit among the hills and streams.” – Mr. Kwan (13:05)

• The “Hang Lee” jade is not for sale—Kwan insists “the piece is yours” if asked for by name.

The Web Tightens

• Holliday is contacted by the letter writer—a woman named Greta Loring—who accuses him of murder, threatening him with a gun for the jade (17:33–19:04).
• She claims he killed her father for the jade, but Holliday maintains his innocence and notes “you said I seem to be much younger than you thought I’d be.” (19:16)
• Loring steals the jade and flees.

Murders & Revelations

• Holliday, tracking the mystery, finds himself amid more violence, a dead body, and further accusations. Mr. Kwan surfaces, revealing pursuit of his father’s killers for ten years.
• The plot anchors around a broken jade screen—three pieces needed to reveal a hidden treasure, each linked to a killing among former allies/traitors from China.

Climax

• All parties converge at Greta Loring’s apartment, with Mr. Kwan seeking justice for his murdered Taoist father and Benson (the true killer) trying to collect all jade pieces.
• Dramatic showdown: Benson is killed during a struggle, Mr. Kwan is fatally wounded, but the jade is finally united.

Conclusion

• The treasure turns out to be a proverb inscribed on the jade:

  “Happy is the man who is contented with his lot.” – Read from jade, (32:10)

• Holliday muses on the wisdom as Susie reflects:

  “I can’t think of anything silly to say.” – Susie (32:28)
  “That’s as it should be. Good night, Susie.” – Dan Holliday

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Box 13: “Sealed Instructions”

(Begins at 33:31)

Set-up

• Holliday receives an urgent letter offering $10,000 for a mysterious assignment in the Philippines.
• Susie jokes about the sender: “I bet he’s an income tax invasion.” (35:02)

The Assignment

• The client, Joseph Krell, is paranoid, hiding behind locked doors. He wants Holliday to pick up something from Manila—vital to his survival—but gives no details ("Sealed instructions").
• Holliday accepts, more for adventure than for the money:

  “Oh, the money doesn’t interest me. […] I’m a writer. The stories I get in response to that box 13 ad you answered, well, they pay me amply for my efforts.” – Dan Holliday (38:28)

Manila Intrigue

• On arrival, Holliday’s contact has been murdered. He’s interrogated by a supposed “Lt. Keith”, who is soon revealed as an imposter and Krell’s double-crossing ex-partner.
• Key realization:

  “Ask him how he knew I came to Manila on a plane.” (45:14)

The Hunt for the Map

• The true Manila police (Lt. Marinos) discover Holliday carries half a treasure map; the murdered “Carlos” had the other half. The “treasure” is what Krell, a known collaborator and traitor from WWII, desperately wants.
• The police propose using Holliday as bait to catch Keith. He agrees:

  “Well, you’ve got yourself a piece of live bait. And I hope it stays that way.” (49:59)

Climax

• Keith holds Holliday at gunpoint for his half of the map, planning to kill him. Holliday narrowly escapes during a car ride, Marinos arrests Keith.
• Digging at the map’s coordinates, they uncover a half-million dollars—money Krell hid during the war.

Final Twist / Moral

• Back in the US, Holliday returns the iron box not with cash, but the Philippine Republic’s flag:

  “The flag of a people you betrayed.” (58:00)

• Krell, too ill to stand trial, is left with his disgrace; the police keep the money.

“I don’t think I really care about a man who would double cross his own country.” – Dan Holliday (59:22)

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Screen Director’s Playhouse: Whispering Smith

(Begins at 60:37)

Introduction by Director Leslie Fenton

• Leslie Fenton introduces the radio adaptation:

  “Tonight, fortunately, we’re not concerned only with villains. Our story is fully equipped with a hero and all the other paraphernalia of a classic western.” (61:57)

Main Story:

Set in Wyoming, 1892—a railroad mystery of sabotage, greed, and divided loyalties.

Opening Action

• Alan Ladd as Luke “Whispering” Smith, railroad detective, targeted immediately by an ambush.

  “He talks quiet, but his guns talk big.” (63:49)

Cast of Characters

• Marion Sinclair: Old flame, married to Murray Sinclair.
• Murray Sinclair: Smith’s best friend, implicated in trouble.
• McLeod: New railroad superintendent.
• Barney Rebstock: Notorious local outlaw.

Unfolding Mystery

• A series of train wrecks and robberies link to local ranchers and Rebstock’s gang.

  “Only these aren’t accidents… This is something that’s all been figured out.” – Smith (70:34)

• Emotional tension: Marion fears for Murray, caught up with the wrong crowd.

Confrontation & Tragedy

• Smith tries to persuade Murray to leave the criminal gang. Murray refuses, accusations of betrayal and jealousy over Marion (73:05).
• The final showdown: Smith chases the robbers to Williams Canyon. Murray is mortally wounded, reconciles with Smith as he dies.
• Smith’s code:

  “If there’d been any other way, I’d have played it different…. The only cards I had were the ones you dealt me.” – Smith to Murray, dying friend (84:25)

Epilogue:

• Alan Ladd and Leslie Fenton share banter about “heroes and villains” in Hollywood:

  “How can a villain like you play such a fine hero, Alan?” – Fenton (87:20)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "Confucius said that jade is like truth. It gives out a bright rainbow and it shows a pure spirit among the hills and streams." – Mr. Kwan, (13:05)
• "Happy is the man who is contented with his lot." – Inscription/Jade, (32:10)
• “Oh, the money doesn’t interest me... the stories pay me amply for my efforts.” – Dan Holliday (38:28)
• “I don’t think I really care about a man who would double cross his own country.” – Dan Holliday (59:22)
• “He talks quiet, but his guns talk big.” – (63:49, Whispering Smith)
• “If there’d been any other way, I’d have played it different... The only cards I had were the ones you dealt me.” – Smith to Murray (84:25)

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Major Segment Timestamps

• Intro & Alan Ladd/Box 13 discussion: 00:59–03:00
• Box 13: Treasure of Hang Lee: 06:41–32:45
• Box 13: Sealed Instructions: 33:31–59:35
• Screen Directors Playhouse: Whispering Smith: 60:37–85:04
• Epilogue, Alan Ladd & Leslie Fenton: 86:54–87:42

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Language & Tone

• The tone is classic hard-boiled: witty, understated, and brisk, especially in Holliday’s repartee with Dames and Dames and Dangerous Men (and jade dealers).
• Alan Ladd’s delivery: cool, laconic, hinting at an inner warmth beneath the world-weary exterior.

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For New Listeners

This episode is a lively crash course in both old-time radio detective style and the star power that made Alan Ladd a noir icon. The mysteries are intricate but satisfying, with a strong sense of period atmosphere, moral ambiguity, and clever twist endings. The Western finale is a treat, letting Ladd flex a more somber, melancholic heroism.

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A classic double-feature: two Box 13 mysteries—one philosophical, one globe-trotting—and a western loaded with action and pathos, all brought to life by Alan Ladd’s iconic voice.

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Podcast Host]

Hello and welcome to down these Mean Streets and more old time radio detectives and crime solvers. Well, it's a brand new year and today we're kicking off 2026 with a new month long series. Each week we'll shine a light on a classic leading man of Hollywood. An actor who also lent his voice to a radio detective. And we're starting with Alan Lad. On screen, Ladd was a cool, tough customer in noir dramas like this Gun for Hire, the Blue Dahlia and the Glass Key. And he wore a six gun in classic westerns including what's probably his most famous performance in the title role of Shane. But on radio, Ladd starred as mystery writer and amateur detective Dan Holliday in the syndicated series box 13. Today we'll hear a pair of box 13 mysteries plus an Alan Ladd recreation of a big screen detective role. From box 13 we'll hear treasure of Hang Lee and Sealed Instructions. They're a pair of adventures that find Dan Holliday running his newspaper ad. Adventure Wanted will go anyplace, do anything, write box 13. And he receives letters in response that bring him more than he bargained for. Then he's an old west detective out to catch a gang of train robbers and killers as the Screen Director's Playhouse presents a radio version of the 1948 Western mystery Whispering Smith. This one originally aired on NBC on September 16, 1949. But first we're checking the mail for box 13 with Alan Ladd. Our stories will begin right after these messages.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There's a common phrase that's being kicked around in your house and mine more and more every day, and that is high cost of living. Sound familiar? I bet it does. I'm sure you've heard Mother and Dad mention it more often than once and you will undoubtedly hear it many more times as the days go by. Now, just in case you're hazy on exactly what it means, let me give you a rough idea. It means that the cost of your clothes and food has gone up to a point where the family budget has become somewhat strained. Well, that's one of those things. And you can't be expected to increase the family income, but there are some things you can do to help. For instance, take better care of your clothes when you come home from school. Change into old clothes before you go out to play. Take care of your health, because doctors and medicines are expensive. Eat well, but don't waste. Take your full share, but eat all you take. Try not to ask mother and dad to buy you things you don't actually need. Make the best of the most of what you've got. Try to be more than usually careful of your school equipment, such as paper, pencils and so forth. Make them last and go as far as you possibly can. Remember that all members of a family must pull together at a time like this, so do your share. Are you looking for a smooth shave, men? Then try Fitch's no Brush Shaving Cream. It'll give you the kind of shave you want. Because 40 years of experience have gone into the making of this product, Fitch's no Brush contains a special skin conditioner ingredient that takes the work out of shaving. You won't have to struggle and scrape against stubborn whiskers because the skin conditioner prepares your face beforehand. It holds the whiskers up so your razor can zip them down closely and quickly. Even against the grain of a tough beard, your razor will glide swiftly, never nicking or scraping Fitches no Brush is a boon to sensitive faces because it lubricates gently, keeping that tender skin from being irritated. After this quick, easy shave, your skin will feel cool and refreshed, wonderfully smooth. And if you prefer a lather cream, try Fitch's Brush Cream. It forms a rich, abundant lather when applied with a brush. This lather stays moist all during the shave. Fitch's Brush Cream also contains the special skin conditioner for sensitive faces. Fitch's Brush and Fitch's no Brush Shaving Cream are available in handy 25 and 50 cent sizes. For a shave you like, switch to Fitch. There's a big change going on, an important one for car buyers. It's the countrywide change to Rambler. Passing car after car in sales, Rambler now leads all but two other makes in state after state. What does it all mean? That Rambler has what people want and cannot get. In other cars, Rambler is the quality compact car. For instance, Rambler has plenty of hat room, shoulder room and leg room for six big people. Yet Rambler is so trim on the outside, it handles and parks with the greatest ease for first cost, gas, economy and resale value. Rambler is America's top Economy car. Yet only Rambler offers the fine features of personalized comfort. There are front seats that glide back and forward separately to perfectly fit. Short legs or long adjustable headrests. Airliner reclining seats, twin travel beds. Finest air conditioning at lowest cost. Throughout Rambler engineering is more advanced. Rambler workmanship more careful. Come in and drive the quality compact car Rambler. See your Rambler dealer. 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.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Box 13 with the Star of Paramount Pictures, Alan Ladd as Dan Holliday.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Box 13, care of the Star Times. If your advertisement is on the level.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I think you'll find this worth your time. Be in the Quan Hai shop in.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Chinatown at 2 o' clock tomorrow afternoon.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Pretend you want to buy some jade.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Reject the first two pieces offered, then mention the Hang Le piece in the window.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Buy the Hang Lee. This will be worth a lot of money to you. Remember, it's the Quan Hai shop in China. Shop in Chinatown. Ask for jade, but reject the first two pieces. Then mention the Hang Lee piece in the window, go back and wait for further instructions. That was the letter. No signature. It sounded interesting. And it was, if you like murder. And now back to the Treasure of Hang lee. Another box 13 adventure with Alan Ladd as Dan Holliday.

[Susie]

I don't get it, Mr. Holliday. Why should you reject the first two pieces?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Ah, that's what makes the letter interesting, Susie. Why reject the first two pieces and then mention the Hang Lee piece?

[Susie]

All right. Why?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I think I've got an idea.

[Susie]

What is it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Pretty obvious, Susie. Look, the letter doesn't say anything about identifying myself, does it?

[Susie]

No, it doesn't.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, if I follow instructions. Follow them exactly. I'll be tipping myself to someone in the store. Do you get it?

[Susie]

Oh, sure. Whoever wrote the letter will be there too, waiting for you to follow instructions.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's a great deduction.

[Susie]

And I did it all myself, too.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You sure did. Okay, Susie. I'm going to make like Marco Polo and visit our Chinese friends. It took me a half an hour to drive to chinatown and another 10 minutes to find the shop of Quan Hai. I looked in the windows. There was the usual line of stuff. Back scratchers, Quan Yins, bamboo trinkets, red lacquer bowls. But only one piece of jade. It was roughly square and seemed to have been broken. It looked like a part of a bigger piece. So I went into the shop. There were six or Seven other people besides myself and, well, they were looking at curios and no one paid any attention to me. Then a young Chinese clerk smiled and came over to me. Oh, yes, sir, can I help you, please? Oh, yes, I. I want to buy a piece of jade. Yes, sir.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You want a certain color?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, I don't know. This is a very nice piece, sir. It is what we call the mutton fat color. It's very nice, but not quite what I want. A ring, perhaps.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Coughlinks, A snuff bottle.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know. You see, it's for a gift. Oh, this piece is very fine, sir, and the carving is excellent. But it is not very old. There's a piece in the window, the only piece. What? Is that the piece in the window, sir? Yes. It's a Hang Leap piece, isn't it? Well, if you will please to follow me, sir. But the piece is in the window. I know, sir, but for that piece you would have to see Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

This way, please.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

If you please, sir. In here. I will send for Mr. Kwan. You will please excuse me now, sir.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The other customers.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah, sure. Thank you.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is nothing at all, sir.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He went out and I heard a key turn in the lock of the door. For a moment I was left alone in a room that was different from the rest of the store. Very different. Instead of the usual junk that tourists buy, this room was a treasure house. Rose quartz, wonderful jade screens. Beautiful porcelain bowls that seemed to be lighted from inside. Lacquerware that shone like satin in the dim light. I was looking around me when.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Good afternoon, sir.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, how do you do, Mr. Kwan?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I am Mr. Kwan. Please to sit down, sir.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Thank you.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

May I help you, Mr. Mr. My name is Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Dan Holliday.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I am honored, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Your clerk told me I'd have to see you about that Hang Lee jade in the window.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, that is true. You want the piece, Mr. Holiday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, I'd like to buy it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

One moment. It is strange that Hungley piece has lain in the window for two weeks now. You are the first to ask for it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I. I saw it and liked it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Of course. You are a man of excellent taste. It is a very fine piece. Incredibly ancient and incredibly valuable.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, well, maybe. Maybe I can't afford it. The hang Li piece, Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Thank you, lan. That is all.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, Mr. Quan. Does he always lock the door when he leaves this room?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

There are very valuable things in this room, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, I see. But the Hang Lee piece, is it valuable, Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, Mr. Holliday. So valuable that there is no price on it. Odd that you should ask for it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You have no idea how odd.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is a piece of a larger work. 12 inches by 12 inches to be exact. This is only one third of the original.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

May I see it?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Certainly.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It looks like a wonderful piece of jade.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Do you know what Confucius said about jade?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, I seem to have heard quite a few things Confucius was supposed to have said, but I doubt if any of them would fit the bill just now.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, but Confucius said that jade is like truth. It gives out a bright rainbow and it shows a pure spirit among the hills and streams.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Truth gives out a bright rainbow. That's a very pretty figure of speech, Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, truth is very often a figure of speech, is it not, Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, I'm afraid you're right. But about this piece.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Ah, yes. You will note the carving. Very beautifully done.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

These are Chinese characters, aren't they?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes. It is too bad the other 2/3 of the entire piece are missing.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, why is that? I mean, beyond the fact that it seems a shame to ruin such a magnificent thing.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Foolish old Chinese legend, Mr. Holliday. It says that he who translates the writing will be led to a treasure beyond all price.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But you'd have to have all three pieces.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You would need all three pieces.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And where are the other two?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I do not know.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I see. Well, Mr. Kwan? How much for this piece?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Mr. Holliday, it has no price.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You mean it's not for sale?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is not for sale.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But I don't understand. It was in the window.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes. And no one inquired about it. Perhaps because collectors would not be interested in a broken piece.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That could be. But that still doesn't explain why you had it in your window and yet not have it for sale.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Because, Mr. Holliday, the piece is yours.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I beg your pardon, what did you say?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The Hung Li piece is yours. There is no price on it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But I can't take it without paying for it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You asked for it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Of course I did, Mr. Kwan, but I'm prepared to pay for it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I am sorry, There is no price. The piece is yours for the taking.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Hmm.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, suppose someone else had come in and asked for it. Would you have given it to anyone?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Only to one who ask for it by name, as you did.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't understand.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Truth, Mr. Holliday, is a figure of speech. I have told you the truth. The Hungley piece is yours. Please take it. Now, if you will excuse me just.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

A moment, Mr. Quan. Suppose I refuse to walk out with this?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is a matter of indifference to me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Then as a matter of curiosity, how much is the piece worth?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That depends upon who has it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And that means what?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That is hard to say. To a collector, the Hung Li piece would be worth perhaps no more than a hundred dollars. To you, it is worth what you make it. To me. To me, it is priceless. Ah, here is Lun Lun, please show Mr. Holliday to the door. His business here is concluded.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It will be great honor, Mr. Quan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Just so. Well, goodbye, Mr. Holiday. And may the bat roost upon your roof.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

May the what rest for where?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The bat is a Chinese symbol for good fortune. Goodbye.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Please to come with me, Mr. Holiday. You're sure you won't change your mind, Mr. Quan?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

About what?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The Hangley piece.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is yours. Perhaps we shall meet again, Mr. Holiday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, wait just a minute, Mr. Kwan. I. He is gone, Mr. Holliday. Now, if you will please to follow me. All right. Thanks. Is there anything else you wish, Mr. Holliday? Yes, I think there is.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

And that is?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I wish someone would tell me why I advertise for adventure and get mixed up in things like this. Goodbye. So, with the Hang Lee piece tucked under my arm and a great big question mark tucked under my hat, I left Quan Lee's place. For a moment I stood in front of the store. No one followed me out, although I knew that whoever had sent me the letter was watching. So I drove home and waited in my apartment. I didn't wait long. Hello? This Holiday? Yes, it is. I'm the one who sent you the letter. Bring the hangly piece to 721 South Ferry street, room six. Oh, just a minute. How do you know I've got the piece? I was in the store this afternoon. And why didn't you ask me for it there? You're wasting time. Please bring the Hangley piece. You will be sorry. What was that address again? 721 South Ferry street, room six. And the name You've got All you need to know. I'll be waiting. Well, well, well. All right, Mr. South Ferry street we'll see what you have to offer.

[Susie]

Please go back in, Mr. Holladay.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, I've got company.

[Susie]

Please go back. Sit down.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I. I just got up.

[Susie]

Sit down.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, thank you, won't you?

[Susie]

You. You're much younger than I thought you'd be.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, is that so? Well, keep pointing that gun at me and I can age 10 years.

[Susie]

You have quite a sense of humor for a murderer.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Murder? Well, this is news. Go on. Miss.

[Susie]

Loring. Greta Loring.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

How do you do?

[Susie]

Doesn't the name loring mean anything, Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Beyond the fact that it belongs to a very pretty girl holding a very ugly gun? I'm completely at loss.

[Susie]

Lying seems to be another of your doubtful accomplishments.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, yes, I'm very talented, but I'm no good at puzzles. You see, I give up too easily.

[Susie]

I had a hard time finding you, especially since you changed your name.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No, this is news. I'm a murderer, a liar, and I'm living under an alias.

[Susie]

This afternoon you gave yourself away by getting the Hangly jade from that shop. Sooner or later I knew I'd trace you through that piece of jade.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

So you were there, too.

[Susie]

I've watched that shop for days waiting for you to get the Hang Lee.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And now that I've got it, I'm.

[Susie]

Going to take it, then kill you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

In that order, I suppose.

[Susie]

Give it to me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It's right there on the table in front of you.

[Susie]

It was a long time ago that you killed my father. I was a little girl then, Lady.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

How you've grown up. Complete with a gun and a murderous desire to kill me.

[Susie]

I've had that desire for a long time. Ever since I found my father dead. Murdered.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Go on, Miss Loring. What then?

[Susie]

You know as well as I do, and being charming and flip won't help.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now, look, Ms. Loring, maybe you've got the wrong man. Have you thought of that? After all you said, I seem to be much younger than you thought I'd be.

[Susie]

All I know is that you went after the Hangly jade. No one else in the world but you would want that piece. No one else would know what it means.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's circumstantial evidence, Ms. Loring.

[Susie]

Stay where you are. We're through talking, Mr. Holliday. Or shall I call you Benson?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You can call me anything you like, but think before you squeeze that trigger.

[Susie]

I've thought quite a lot. Now, I'm going to take the jade.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

All right? Here, take it.

[Susie]

Giving it to me won't solve everything. Stay there. No, don't.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

With a slam of the door, Ms. Loring was gone. So was the Hang Lee jade. And so was a piece of my coat where the bullet from her gun ripped through it. But I had the gun. Maybe it could be traced. But first I had to see a man about a piece of Jade at 721 S. Ferry St.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who is it? Holiday. All right, just a minute. Come on in. Now give me the Hangly Piece. I'm sorry, but you're about a half hour too late. What are you talking about? Well, I haven't got it. Maybe this will show you. I don't like jokes. Now look, whatever your name is, take that gun out of my ribs. Developing an allergy. Give me the Hangly piece. What if I told you a girl who called herself Greta Loring took it away from me? Loring? You have that name, right? I have every reason to remember it, but. Good. Where is she? I don't know. Will you? All right, turn around. Face the window. Now look. Fell. Turn around. Now where did that girl go? I told you, I don't know. How did she find you? The same way you did. She was in Quan High shop this afternoon. Uh huh. Okay, Mr. Holiday, thank you for running that errand for me. And now back to box 13 and Dan Halliday's newest adventure, the Treasure of Hang Lee. It was a nice hit. Over the top of my head. When the birds and the bees left my skull. I sat up. The room was dark. I started to get to my feet.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

When you're feeling better, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Huh? Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Oh, I am flattered you recognize my voice. But you are feeling better?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Except for a new head, I couldn't ask for anything more.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm sorry I did not arrive in time to save you that inconvenient.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Mm.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But now that you are here. Why?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Why am I here? I came to see your friend today.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I have no friends.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Wait a moment. I shall turn on the light.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, I could use some.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Here we are.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Most on. What's going on?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes. Here. You gave our friend the Hung Lee jade.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now wait a minute, I.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Just a moment. Before you answer, you had better look in this little alcove. Look, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who. Who's that? He's dead.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, quite dead. Stabbed in the back.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But he's not the man I came here to see.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm afraid not. I wish he were.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well then who is this?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

One of the men I have been seeking for 10 years.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Ten years? Look, Mr. Kwan, I have a large headache. You're no aspirin with your. Your Chinese puzzles.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The man you came to see was named.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That doesn't help.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The dead man. There is a man named Fisher.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And what about a man named Loring?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Oh, you know a man named Loring?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I met his daughter today.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Ah, his daughter. Now I am beginning to see. But I presume you gave Mr. Benson the hungry jade you got from me today.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I did not. Mr. Loring's daughter relieved me of it. She has it, you know she has.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I have only your word for that.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's all you're gonna get, Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I think you mean that. Very well, Mr. Holliday. I shall have to leave now.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, no, you don't. There's a murdered man here. How do I know you didn't kill him?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That is a reasonable question. You have only my word that I did not kill him.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And you'll go with me to the police. Oh, it's funny, huh?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

No, I was thinking of something. A proverb. And being Chinese, I am permitted one proverb.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I've got one for you, Mr. Kwan. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Right now, you're the number one bird.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Very good, Mr. Holiday. But my proverb is more to the point. Two men of different minds must soon say goodbye.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

We're going to the police, Mr. Kwan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You leave me no alternative but this.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Would. Would you use that gun?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm afraid I would if you tried to stop me. But please do not blame me, Mr. Holliday. This is the fault of my ancestors.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Your ancestors?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

They invented gunpowder. Goodbye.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And so there I was. But where? I called the police and reported the murder without giving my name. I didn't want to stick around because I had other things to do. I had a bullet hole through my coat and out of my head and a big burning desire to catch up with Mr. Benson and Ms. Loring. Not to mention a certain Mr. Kwan. The only lead I had was Greta Loring's gun that I'd taken from her. If she had bought it in the city, it would be registered. So I made one more phone call and found out what I wanted. Her address. It was in an apartment building, and her apartment was number eight. I pressed the buzzer.

[Podcast Host]

Yes?

[Susie]

Who?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Good evening, Ms. Loring.

[Susie]

How did you find me?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, I had to. I always return things that I borrow. I believe this is your gun. What are you going to do, play questions and answers?

[Susie]

Please get out of here.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

This afternoon you call me a murderer.

[Susie]

Why, I. I thought you were someone else.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who, Benson?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, but I'm not.

[Susie]

I know that now.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, now she tells me. After she puts a bullet through my coat. You know, Ms. Loring, two inches higher and you'd have had yourself a corpse. Me, I dislike being a corpse. Now you'll talk.

[Susie]

Benson killed my father in China 10 years ago.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It seems he also killed a man called Fisher.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Fisher?

[Susie]

David Fisher.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

David. I'm not. He's just a number at the morgue by now.

[Susie]

Then. Then Benson is still alive?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I think he is.

[Susie]

And you came here?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, of course. Why not?

[Susie]

Don't you see what you've done?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Done?

[Susie]

Think about it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Uh oh, he wouldn't know where to find you. But I told him I'd met you and he'll keep track of me and come here. Listen, have you still got that Hang leaks Jade?

[Susie]

Yes.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, he wants that. If you give it to him, maybe he'll go away.

[Susie]

My father was killed because he had the Hangley piece.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What is there about that piece?

[Susie]

There were three pieces, all part of the same screen. It was something about a treasure.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And the carving on the screen would lead to the treasure?

[Susie]

Yes.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You have one piece. Benson has the other two. One, he killed your father to get the other. He killed Fisher together.

[Susie]

And he'll come here after this third piece.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Hey, come on, we've got to get out of here. Wait. Where's your phone?

[Susie]

Well, right there.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But I'm gonna call the police.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Not yet, Mr. Holiday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Quan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes. I followed you, Mr. Holliday. Then because I fear Ms. Loring would not extend her hospitality to me, I came up the fire escape.

[Susie]

Kwan Kuan. My father told me.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Ms. Loring. Yes, your father, Fisher and Benson killed an old Taoist priest in China to get the Hong Li screen and its secret.

[Susie]

My father never killed anyone.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm afraid he did.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But there are three pieces off the screen.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, Mr. Holliday. The three men did not trust one another. They broke this screen up into three pieces. One valueless without the other two.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Why? Why did they do that?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Because they had to leave China and go their separate ways. They arranged to meet later, but.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But Benson killed Loring.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, but Loring did not have his piece of the Hung Li. I got it before Benson got to him.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And you, you put the piece in the window to trap Benson. Why, Mr. Quan, why?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The Taoist priest was my honorable father.

[Susie]

Oh, I didn't know. I didn't know that.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm sure you did not. I have been all over the world waiting, waiting, hoping that sooner or later the murderers of my father would trap themselves. Two are dead. And the third?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Benson.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, Benson.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He must be Benson.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You will Let him in, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Let him in? Are you crazy, Quan? He's a killer.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Say let him in. One moment. I will take that gun you put on the table, Mr. Holiday. Give it to me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Take it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Thank you. Now I have two guns. Mr. Benson probably has one. Let him in.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Mr. Holliday, if you think I'm gonna open that door and let him in. You're crazy.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It's two guns. Are you afraid, Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

All right, sloring it back. Thanks. To the wall. Now. You get back in there. Better not come in, Benson.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Move away.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now. Who's that?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Come in, Mr. Benson.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Come in, Holliday. Stand in front of me. Right where you are. All right, go ahead and shoot.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I would hit Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's right.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm sorry, Mr. Holliday, but you seem to have been caught between the dragon and the tiger.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I want that Hang Lee piece.

[Susie]

I'll give it to him.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, do that, Ms. Loring. Give it to him, Benson.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You've already killed two men. A third won't make any difference. The Hangly piece, Ms. Loring. On the table there.

[Susie]

Take it. Take it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Good enough.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

All right, Holliday, move in front of me. Always in front of me. Now stop. Hand me the jade. You, Ms. Loring, hand it to me. That's it. Now I'm going to move back toward the door. If you shoot, Holiday gets it. Stop right here.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Mr. Holliday, my life means nothing because I have devoted it to this moment. But I regret this inconvenience to you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Kwan, think what you're doing. Benson won't get away. The police will have his description and be picked up within an hour. Nice dreaming, holiday. Mr. Kwan, don't. Stay where you are.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I regret, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Twist away.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Quickly.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Twist away.

[Susie]

Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I'm all right. I got out of the way.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

But Mr. Benson has gone to his ancestors.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Mr. Kwan, are you all right?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, he's quite all right. Thank you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You're hit. Ms. Loring called the doctor. Faster.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

No, no, please. The three pieces of this crane, give them to me. You will find two of them in Mr. Benson's pocket.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Look, Mr. Quan, you're hurt badly. You've got to have a doctor.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

No, that would do no good. Old Chinese proverb. Greatest coward is he who fears death.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I'm sorry, Mr. Quan.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The homely pieces, please put them together.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

All right, There they are.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The treasure of Hong Li. Right here. Treasure, but not gold. My people learned centuries ago that real treasure is not gold. Of Hongli is written here. Jade that happy is the man who is contented with his love.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Mr. Kwan. Mr. Kwan. It's all right, Ms. Loring. Mr. Kwan is contented.

[Susie]

You mean that was all there was to the treasure, Mr. Holiday? Just. Just that proverb.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's right, Susie. Maybe it's the best after all. You see, we beat our brains out Going after something. And when we've got it, the thing on the other side of the hill always looks better.

[Susie]

Happy is the man who is contented with his lot. Gee, you know something, Mr. Holliday?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Mm?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What Susie?

[Susie]

I can't think of anything silly to say.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's as it should be. Good night, Susie. Next week, same time, through the courtesy of Paramount Pictures, Alan Ladd stars as Dan Holliday in Box 13.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Box 13 is directed by Richard Sanville.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

With this week's original story by Mark Hopling. Original music is composed and conducted by Rudy Schrager. Bart of Susie is played by Sylvia Picker and production is supervised by vern Carstenson. Box 13 is a Mayfair production.

[Narrator/Announcer]

From Hollywood.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Watch for Alan Ladd in his latest paramount picture, box 13 with the star of Paramount Pictures, Alan Ladd as Dan Holiday.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Box 13 care of Star Times. I have a proposition for you. One that will bring you $10,000 if you go through with it. But you've got to make up your mind fast. I'm at 658 Carson Street. I won't be there after tomorrow evening. So if you're interested, come to see me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

If you are interested, come to see me. Bring this letter to identify yourself and come to flat number six. Remember, you've got to hurry. That was it. No signature to the letter. Just that sense of urgency that made me feel as though the writer were afraid. He was. And later I was. Now back to box 13 and Dan Holiday's latest adventure, sealed instructions. Well, Susie, what do you make of it?

[Susie]

He's in an awful hurry, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That he is. And he mentions $10,000. Uh huh. And that, as they say in books, is a lot of gold watchers.

[Susie]

He doesn't even sign his name. I bet he's an income tax invasion.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What?

[Susie]

He's an income tax evasion.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Susie Evader.

[Susie]

Well, one or the other. He's got $10,000.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Uh huh. Okay Susie, it looks like the best letter of the bunch for this week. So my address for the next hour or so will be 658 Carson Street. Carson street ran through one of those neighborhoods where the houses sat one on top of the other, crowded, dirty and teeming with people, trucks and more people. I found number 658. Knocked on the door of flat number six.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Who is it? Who is it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Box 13.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You got the letter with you?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, I've got it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Hey, put it under the door.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Okay, here it comes.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Stand under that light across the hall so I can see you. All right, come on in. Hurry.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Sit down.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

No, no, no. Keep away from the window.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The shade's down. No one can see you.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Keep away from it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You've got enough bolts and chains on that door to hold off a tribe of Indians.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I know what I'm doing. Let me get a good look at.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You in the yellow light that came from the one globe dangling from the ceiling. The man looked at me and I looked at him. He was about 50. His face was drawn and pinched. His hands shook and his eyes, squinty and sharp, slid over me. I didn't like him then. He seemed to be satisfied and sat down on the chair opposite me.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

So you're after adventure, eh?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's right.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Did you see anyone follow you here?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Not that I know of.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Why?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Expecting someone else?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'm always expecting someone. No. No, I'm not.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What do you want with me?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Are you free to go anywhere?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's what my aunt says. We'll go anyplace, do anything. I usually do.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Would you be willing to go as far as the Philippine Islands?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It's a man sized errand. Would you go?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That's all I want to know. Would you go?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, that all depends on what I've got to do. If there's anything crooked, the answer is no.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

There's nothing crooked. I want you to go there and bring back something that belongs to me. Something I've got to have.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What's stopping you from going yourself?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Look at me. I'm sick.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It could be, but. You're sure there's no other reason?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

What do you mean?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, the bolts and the locks on the door. That fact that you said in your letter you wouldn't be at this address after tonight. The shade's drawn. You were afraid I was following.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

So?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

So two and two are four. And the four in this case comes out to. You're afraid to show your face?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I have enemies.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The ordinary kind or the kind that would kill you?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

They kill me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I see. What's your name?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You have to know that there's a.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Little peculiarity of mine. I like to know the people I'm dealing with.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

My name is Krell. Joseph Krell. Does it mean anything to you?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No more than mine would mean to you. Holiday dan Holliday.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

There's $10,000 in this for you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't care about that. What? Oh, the money doesn't interest me.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Doesn't it? Money doesn't.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I must have said something very funny.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You did, Holiday. You did. You say $10,000 doesn't mean anything to you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, no, it doesn't. I'd better explain. You see, I'm a writer. The stories I get in response to that box 13 A.D. you answered. Well, they pay me amply for my efforts.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

There's one born every minute. But will you go?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And do what?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I'll give you the name of a man whom you to contact in Manila. That's all you have to know.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now then, what happens?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That will take care of itself.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What do you want me to bring back?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I told you. Something that belongs to me. Something I've got to have. Something that means life or death to me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That important, huh?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

We're wasting time. Will you do it? It's adventure. And when you get back, I'll give you $10,000. Do anything you want with it. I don't care. But bring me what I want.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

When do I have to leave?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

As soon as you can.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, one more question.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

What?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Where are you going to get the $10,000?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Well, I. I'll have it when you get back.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I see. Do I come here?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

No, I won't be here. I've got to keep moving because he.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Never mind. When you get back, put another ad below the one for box 13. Just see you back. I'll get in touch with you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And the name of the man I'm to meet in Manila.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You'll find him at the address on. On this slip of paper. He's expecting someone from here. And here. Take this envelope. Don't open it until you get in touch with the man.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Sealed instructions, huh?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes. And Holliday, take good care of that envelope. Hide it. If he knew you were carrying it, he might kill you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And with that little gem as a bon voyage from Krell, I left him. When I got home, I took the envelope he'd given me and had it sewn into the lining of my jacket. Four days later, I was in Manila. After a nice pleasant trip on the plane, I went to a hotel and registered. Later that evening I took a cab to the address of Krell's man. It was a tiny, ramshackle place in a street that was so narrow the cab couldn't get through. So I had to get out and walk. And right there is where I should have said quits to the whole thing. That old familiar feeling began tearing, tingling my spine. As usual, foolishly, I paid no attention to it. I got to the house. There was no answer. I tried the door. It was pitch black inside. I closed the door behind me. I stood there for a couple of seconds, trying to see through the blackness.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

When Stand right where you are.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who's that?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Just stay where you are.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The light went on and facing me was a man with a gun. And from where I stood, the muzzle was neatly in line with my third rib. The man looked at me for a moment, then turn around back to me. What's the idea?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

I don't know yet, but we'll see. Okay, face me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who are you?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Never mind that. Who are you?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Dan Holliday.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Doesn't mean a thing.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Looked entities.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Oh yeah. We got company, Sergeant. So I see.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Sergeant, what is this?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Sit down.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Look, I came here to see someone.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Uh huh. What's the name of the person you came to see?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

If you don't know this man, why did you come here? Come on, talk.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't see any reason why I should.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Would it give you a reason if I told you we're police?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

You don't know much, do you? Why did you come to see this man you don't know?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

On business.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

What kind?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I was sent here.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

By who?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

A man named Joseph Krell.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Krell? Well, well, well.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Evidently that explains a lot of things, doesn't it?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

It could and it couldn't. You say your name is Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's right.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

All right, Mr. Holliday, step over to this other room with me. Come on. Open the door, Sergeant.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

See?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Lieutenant. Go ahead.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

In Holiday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh. Do you have to keep that gun on me?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

It's better that way. Now, want to see your man? Yeah, I look on the floor behind the bed. Now you've seen him.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who killed him?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

We'd like to know that too.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You didn't think I did.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Maybe you'd like to talk. Now, tell us why you came here, why you had to see Carlos.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Carlos?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Yeah. The name of the deceased.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

All right, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Lieutenant Keith, Manila police. This is Sergeant Enrique Cotis.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Okay. I was sent here by Joseph Krell. I was to see this Carlos.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Why?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know. I was to give him an envelope.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Where is it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

At the hotel.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

We'll find out about that later. Now, this Krell, why did he send you?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He couldn't come himself. But whatever it was he wanted me to bring back, he said it meant life and death to him. He offered me $10,000 to get it for him.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

What was in the envelope?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Is that your stock answer?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now look, I'm telling the truth. If you don't believe it, check with the police in the States. Verify my identity.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

We will. But first let's get something straight.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, that would be a pleasure.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Krell sent you for something that was worth $10,000 to him. Did anyone else know about it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Hardly.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Why hardly?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Because Krell said I might be killed.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

And you didn't talk to anyone on the plane about it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Okay, we'll get back to your hotel and check on a few things. Sergeant.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

See you, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Stay here. No one in or out. Meet me at headquarters as soon as you can get away. See, now, Holliday, we'll see how much trouble you're really.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

On the way back to my hotel. Keith didn't say much. Neither did I. But I was doing a lot of thinking. And suddenly it hit me. Something Keith had asked me something he had no right to ask. And something he couldn't have asked unless I looked at him. He was smiling to himself. Okay. I had to take a chance. Oh, by the way, Lieutenant.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

What?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That. That building over there.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Where?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Just to your right. Look out the window.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

What building are you talking about?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Driver. Driver, stop the cab. What is it? What's the matter? Oh, my friend, he met with an accident.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

He's hurt. We should maybe go to a doctor.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No, I don't think so. When he comes to, ask him a question for me, will you?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Question?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But yeah, just ask him how he knew I came to Manila on a plane. And now back to sealed instructions. Another box 13 adventure. Starring Alan Ladd as Dan Holliday. So there I was, out in the middle of a big puzzle and a murder. Sure, Keith had killed Carlos to keep me from getting to him. Keith must have followed me from the States. Oh, it was smart of him not to play his cards on the plane. Or as soon as I got to Manila, he waited until I tried to contact Carlos. Then he planned to get the envelope away from me without any more fuss or bother. Now, I had to get back to the hotel and get that envelope before Keith came to. Because when he did, he was going to be very, very nasty. So back at the hotel, I had a bellhop go to my room and bring down the jacket. Is this the right one, Mr. Holliday? Oh, yeah, that's the one. Here you are.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Oh, thank you, sir.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Will that be all?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes. Uh. Oh. Oh, wait a minute.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes, sir?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Come here. Behind this pillar. Something wrong, sir? Yeah, there is. Look over at that entrance. Do you see that big man standing there? White hat, gray suit?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Yes, sir.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I. I don't want to meet him.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Oh, I see.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Look, you go through the lobby paging me. He'll follow you to see where I am. Lead him a Merry Chase. Got it?

[Susie]

I got it, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Okay, get going.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Aging, Mr. Holliday. Mr. Dan Holliday. Aging.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, the bellhop did it up good. Keith fell for the gang and followed the bellhop just far enough behind him so that he could surprise me if he saw me. But he didn't. I ducked out of the entrance and took a cab to police headquarters there.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Let me get this straight, Mr. Holliday. You say this Keith.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Please.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Pretended to be an officer?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That's right, Lieutenant Marinos.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

But why?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

So he could get this envelope away from me. He'd already killed once to get it. Maybe he thought killing me would attract too much attention.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

But this envelope, where is it and what is in it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

We're going to see that right away. Have you got a knife?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Yes. Here.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, thanks. Well, this was a good jacket. There it is.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Open it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Sure. Well, what's this?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

May I see it?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Mm.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Here you are.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Hmm.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

This is very curious, Mr. Holliday. It looks like.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Like a map. It's half a map, Lieutenant Marinos. Carlos had the other half.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Of course. Of course. But a map of what and to what?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

To whatever Krell wanted.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Krell?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah, that's the name.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Why you did not mention his name before? Why not?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, I didn't think it was important to the Filipinos.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is very important.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't get it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Why, during the Japanese occupation of the islands, Joseph Krell was a collaborator.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, no wonder he didn't dare come back. But the rest of this business, how does it fit in?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I do not know as yet. However, I think I have an idea, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes? What's that?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Before the war, before the Japanese invasion, Quail was a gambler. It was known that he ran a gambling house with a partner.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Partner? Keith.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That could be. Although Keith was not his name then.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

So what's the rest of your idea?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

The partner fled when the Japanese came. Quail did not. Now I think the partner would like to find quail. Mr. Holliday, we must find the other half of this map.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, Keith has it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I know that.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And find Keith.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That would be much easier said than done. Unless.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Unless, Lieutenant?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Unless you help Mr. Holliday. I do not think that Keith will suspect that you have come to the police.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He followed me from the States. He must think I'm in with Krell. If he thinks that, then he'd think I wouldn't dare go to the police.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Exactly. So.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, I see. You want to tie me out as live bait, is that it?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It is the only Way to get him, because he will come up to this half of the map.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Uh huh.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Of course, you can refuse. And I do not say that I will blame you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No, I guess not. But, well, you've got yourself a piece of live bait. And I hope it stays that way. It was the only way to get Keith. Besides, I was very curious as to what that map meant and why getting something meant life and death to Joseph Krell. So I checked out of the hotel. And with one of Lieutenant Marino's men following at a distance, I took a room on the other side of town and waited. An hour passed. Two. Then when it was beginning to look as though our Mr. Keith was smarter than we figured. Come in.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Well, hello, Mr. Holliday. You've given me a lot of trouble.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You don't want an apology, do you?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

No. All I want is the other half of that map.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, sure. You knock on the door, I say come in, give you the map, and that's that. Very simple.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Yeah, very simple and very smart.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Mm. But you don't think I'd have the map on me, do you?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Maybe not. But you know where to get it. Let's go.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, wait a minute.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

What for?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Why. Why don't we make a deal?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

What kind?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, neither half of the map is any good without the other. And I'm sure you haven't got yours with you.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Oh, but I have.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I see. Was it very hard getting it from Carlos?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Oh, not very. No harder than it will be to get the half you got.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, look, we can still make a deal, Keith, or whatever your name is.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Keith will do.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Okay, how about it?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Maybe you're smart at that. Okay, let's go. After you, Holiday. And don't forget this. It's loaded.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You make it easy to remember.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Yeah, I can make it very easy to forget by pulling the trigger. No, no. The back way, Holiday. The back way.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Back way.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Holliday. How dumb do you think I am? Or how smart do you think you are? You forgot all about Enrique, didn't you?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, the sergeant.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Yeah. Here, this door. You see, Enrique followed us away from Carlos place. He knew you slugged me in the cab.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Enrique seems to have done all right.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Just perfect. Get in this car. Go ahead, Enrique. Looking for your cop friends, Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Cops?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Yeah. You see, when you pulled that bellhop trick at the hotel, Henrique was outside. He followed you, saw you go to the police. It's too bad, Holiday, but there are no police.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I see. Henrique took care of him, is that it?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Henrique has been Very busy. Now, let's have that half you got.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I told you, I haven't got it.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Quit stalling. It was was to be bait for me, wasn't it? You and Marinus were so sure you'd have me, you didn't bother to leave the half at headquarters. Let's have it now.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Keith looked at me. Sure he knew he held all the aces. And he held the gun right at my head. Now, there was nothing to do but drag out my half of the map and give it to him. He looked at it, held it against his half. They matched.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

All right, Holliday, this is the end of the line. You get off here.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What do you mean?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

What do you think? Take the next turn right, Enrique. And slow down a little. Mr. Holliday is leaving us for good.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Keith meant it. Enrique started to take the next turn to the right. But I had a different idea. I grabbed the handle of the door, twisted it hard and jumped. Took a full fall on my shoulder, rolled over into the digital side of the road. Keith jumped out of the car, started toward me as soon as he came, and then. You.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You are not hurt, Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No. No, I'm not, Lieutenant.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Oh, I am glad.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

We are a majority of two, Lieutenant Marinos.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

But Keith, he is taken care of.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

How did you get here?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

By putting two strings to my bow. Mr. Holliday. The one man I had follow you was, how shall we say, A decoy.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, let's say it and be very happy. Is he all right?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

A little lump on his head, but all right.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You know, this was very close.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Oh, yes. I am Very sorry, Mr. Holliday, but I did not expect Mr. Keith to have a car. However, all is well that ends well.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah, sure. How about that map? Come.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

We will see about that.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now, with the two halves of the map, he went to work. Krell had hidden something in the hills back of Manila. Hidden it before the Japanese invasion. Three hours later, Lieutenant Marinos and I sat on a box and watched his men digging into the earth. And Marinos talked.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You see this? Carlos was Krell's servant. When Krell left the Philippine Islands, he left half the map.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Mm.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

In case he was caught. A half map would do no one any good.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That is right. Keith was Quail's partner. He left. Quail stayed.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

To become a collaborator, playing two games at once. The Japs won. He'd been with them. The Allies won. Well, he'd have what he hid here.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Exactly. And Lieutenant Marinos, we have found it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

This box. An iron box.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Sergeant. Break the lock? Yes sir, Mr. Holliday, you may have the honor of opening it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh thanks. I lifted the lid and unwrapped a large package done up in waterproof oil. Silk it is.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Quite a lot of money.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, quite a lot of money.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Perhaps half a million Mr. Holliday, from.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The looks of it. Yes.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

And it all belongs to Mr. Crail. A man who betrayed my people and his country. We shall be happy to hold it in trust for him until he cares to come and claim it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah, I think I'll take him back. Something else though.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Something else.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That. That. What?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

That over there.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Mr. Holliday, you are a poet.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I left Manila the next day with Lieutenant Marino saying goodbye. With me was the iron box I'd come across the ocean to get. But in it was something a great deal different from what Krell expected back in the States. I put an ad below my box. 13 A.D. i waited.

[Susie]

And then here it is Mr. Holiday. Right below the box. 13 A.D. it says holiday come to 1256 Chickering Place.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

K. That's it Susie.

[Susie]

But why don't they arrest Mr. Krell?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Arrest? I think we've got something much better Susie. Much.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Who is it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Holliday. Let me in.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Have you got it? Did you get it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes. Here it is.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

That's it. Yes, that's it. Holiday. I've waited so long for this. So very long.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I know you have proud. And I'm very anxious to see what you think about it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You didn't open it? The lock looks like it was opened.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Why don't you look inside Crow?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

I've saved this key.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, your ex partner is dead. Now you won't have to worry about him killing you for double crossing him.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Good. Good. I pay you well Holiday. I pay you well.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Who is this with this?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Surprised?

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

It's gone. Ignatio. You're talking.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But I brought you something in place of the money, Krell. The flag of the New Philippine Republic. The flag of a people you betrayed. You.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I. I kill you. I. You're very sick, aren't you Crow? Very sick. You'd never live to stand trial. But you could have lived well on all that money. Please, Please.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Please give it to me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Certainly, Krell. Oh, here's the other half of the map. Which is why you wrote to me originally. I've not double crossed you. You can have your treasure anytime Krell. Anytime you want to claim it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Where? Where is it?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

In Manila. And anytime you want to go back and claim it. I think the people there will be very Glad.

[Susie]

A half million dollars. Wow.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Who.

[Susie]

Who does it belong to? Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

To Mr. Crow. But I don't think he'll ever claim it.

[Susie]

Gee, but what about him? Where'll he go? Well, what'll he do?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know, Susie. And I don't think I really care about a man who would double cross his own country.

[Susie]

Well, anyway, it was exciting for you. You know, I wish I could take a plane trip like that sometime.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

A plane? Good night, Susie. Next week, same time, through the courtesy of Fairmont Pictures. Alan Ladd stars as Dan holiday in box 13. Box 13 is directed by Richard Sanville with this week's original story written by Charles Garnett. Original music is composed and conducted by Rudy Schrager. Part of Susie is played by Sylvia Picker. Production is supervised by vern Carstensen. Box 13 is a Mayfair production. From Hollywood Watch for Alan Ladd in his latest Paramount picture.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, waiter. Yes, sir? I'll have a vegetable salad with cottage cheese, some toasted crackers and a bottle of cold Pabst Blue Ribbon. Yes, sir. Finest beer served.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Any.

[Narrator/Announcer]

From Hollywood. Pabst Blue Ribbon. Finest beer served anywhere. Proudly presents. Screen directors playhouse production. Whispering smith director leslie fenton star alan ladd. The Hollywood screen directors present an adventure of the western rails, Whispering Smith starring Alan Ladd and introduced by the director of the film, Leslie Fenton. Our guest screen director tonight is a gentleman who is equally adept on either side of the camera. As an actor, he enjoys the distinction of being perhaps the most black hearted villain who ever scowled at a movie audience. And as a director, he's brought you such exciting film fair as Saigon, the Streets of Laredo and tonight's story, Whispering Smith. Ladies and gentlemen, the villain who became a director, Mr. Leslie Fenton. Thank you. Tonight, fortunately, we're not concerned only with villains. Our story is fully equipped with a hero and all the other paraphernalia of a classic western. Plus the added ingredient of a railroad yarn. Altogether, it made pretty good entertainment for me as I sat behind the camera. Now, for the first time on the air, Whispering Smith starring Alan Ladd in his original. Wyoming, 1892. Narrow bands of iron slashed through a sweeping roll of hills and valleys, the railway piercing to the division point at Medicine Bend. Under a clump of trees outside the town, two men crouch in the shadows watching a solitary mounted figure riding toward them alongside the railroad track. A few rays of sunlight glint brightly from the objects in their hands. Get your rifle ready, Roy.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It's him all right.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Don't miss Whispering Smith.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He don't look so tough.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, he's tough, all right. Whispering Smith. Crazy name.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He talks quiet, but his guns talk big.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He ain't gonna talk no more now.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Getting good.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Closer. Just a little closer.

[Podcast Host]

Now.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

You got him.

[Susie]

Well, Mr. McCloud, I. I see that number nine is right on schedule anyway.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes? Is Ms. Sinclair.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Hi there, Marion.

[Podcast Host]

Luke.

[Susie]

Luke Smith.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Whispering Smith. I didn't know he was coming in on number nine.

[Susie]

Oh, Luke, I can't believe it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It's been years. Oh, a long, long time. Marion, how's Murray?

[Susie]

Oh, he'll be so happy to see you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Pardon me, Ms. Sinclair, would you mind introducing us?

[Susie]

Oh, I'm sorry. Luke Smith, Mr. McLeod, the new superintendent on this division.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

How do you do? Understand you've got trouble up this way. Just ran into some myself.

[Susie]

Luke, Your.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Your arm.

[Susie]

You've been hurt.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Say, that's a bullet wound.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah, just nicked me kill my horse, though. I flagged down number nine. Who did it? Guess it was somebody who didn't want me to get here.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, if it isn't Whispering smith.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Hello, Rebstock.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Mrs. Sinclair. McLeod. Rebstock. Smith. I'm kind of surprised seeing you here.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Just a little business trip, Rebstock. There's nothing to be surprised about, is it?

[Susie]

No, Mr. Rebstock. He mustn't stand here. He's been shot. Come on, Luke, you need a doctor.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Just a little bandaging, Marion. Maybe you can do it for me.

[Susie]

Luke, hurry up. A bullet wound like that can be dangerous.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, Smith, you want to remember, bullets can be awfully dangerous.

[Susie]

Oh, Luke. Luke, you're. You're still trying to fight the whole world single handed, aren't you?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Somebody's got to take care of trouble, Mary.

[Susie]

It's always been you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Where's Murray?

[Susie]

It's been a wreck.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He.

[Susie]

He got a gang out clearing the tracks. Here, you sit down here by this wash basin. And take off that shirt.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What would my best friend say about his wife holding my hand?

[Susie]

We held hands before, Luke. Long time ago.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You know, it's good to be here again.

[Susie]

Good to have you, Luke. Even if it did take a bullet to bring you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Ouch.

[Susie]

I'm sorry. There. Well, at least it's clean now. I'll banish it. That'll be pretty stiff.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Look. No, that's all right. The other one's my gun. I'm.

[Susie]

Now you can put your shirt on.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Thanks, man.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Did you find everything all right, Ms. Sinclair?

[Susie]

Yes, yes, thanks, Mr. Clark.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Smith, I've got a train going out to the wreck. If you feel up to it. I'd like you to come along.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah, I'd like to come along, McLeod. You see, I've. I've got a few questions. Maybe I'll find a few more.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You come highly recommended, Smith. I had a wire from the president of the road. Ask me to give you full cooperation.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I understand the insurance company's been complaining.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's the unusual loss of property in train wrecks in my division. After the wrecks, a lot of freight disappears. We've traced some of it back.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Where's it coming from?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Rebstock.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Know where he gets it?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Maybe he buys it.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Who from?

[Narrator/Announcer]

You're the troubleshooter.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yeah. So suppose you tell me about any other troubles you might be having.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, Murray Sinclair is one, I reckon, boss.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Oh, I've known Murray since we were kids.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, then maybe you can tell me how to handle him. I'm new on the division, and he doesn't like to take orders from me.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Murray never took orders from anybody.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There's something else, too. That ranch of his.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What about it?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's too big for a man on a railroad salary.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Maybe he's just smart, McLaughlin. Anyway, that's none of our business. What else?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, for one thing, his friends, Rebstock and that Williams Canyon outfit.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Now, look out here, a man keeps on good terms with his neighbors. Even neighbors like Rebstock.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, here we are, Smith. This is a wreck over here.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

This one's really smashed up, isn't it?

[Narrator/Announcer]

There's Sinclair over there by the wagon. All right, hurry it up, man. When you got a load, haul it up to Rev Star's place and come back. Hey, Murray. Hey, Smitty. Hi, you old buzzard, you. What are you doing here? I'm just checking up on you. I'd take three you to check up on me. Hello, Sinclair. Put that stuff you're loading onto that wagon. Just exactly what you see, McLeod. Damaged merchandise, mostly junk. Junk, huh? Personally, I'd call it loot. McLeod. I don't like that word. Long as there's been a railroad busted up, stuff like this has always been for the wrecking. Am I right, boys?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No, no, no. Take it easy, Murray. Mr. McLeod is right. This merchandise doesn't look damaged to me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You stay out of this, Smitty. This is between me and McLeod.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No, Murray, this is between you and the railroad. And that cuts me in, I suppose. You men start putting that stuff back on the ground.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Get out of my way, Smith. I'm hauling this load out of here.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Murray, you move those mules and I'll Shoot them up from between the traces.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Just what would you do without them guns of yours, Luke? We don't need guns to handle you, Sinclair. You're fired. Now clear out of here. All right, McLeod, I'm fired. If you think you can run this division without me, go ahead and try. Just go ahead and try.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Report urgent. Track walkers discover five open switches in last three days. Danger of wreck. Signed, McLeod.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Report urgent.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Cattle train derailed at crawling stone flats. 200 head stone. Sign, McLeod. Report urgent. Number nine derailed by open switch. Fourth such accident in month.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sign, McLean. Smith, I'm glad to see you. Nothing but accidents ever since you left.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Only These aren't accidents. McLeod burned bridges, switches left open. Journals sanded, freight loss and shipment. This is something that's all been figured out.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Do we know who's doing it? Smith?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Don't ask me that. Yes, Marion. Luke.

[Susie]

Luke, I had to come to see you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Murray?

[Susie]

Yes. He's been a different person ever since he left the railroad. Something dreadful's happened to him, and those men are the cause of it.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, I know. Rebstock scam.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Oh, Luke.

[Susie]

Luke, tell me, is Murray one of them?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I. I wish I could tell you.

[Susie]

Now, Luke, isn't there anything you can do?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, if Murray will listen to me.

[Susie]

You're his oldest friend. He must listen.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You'd better go home, Marion. I think I know where to find him, but I'll have to go there alone.

[Susie]

Oh, Mr. Sinclair, you're old boy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You're just a God. Sorry, huh? Ah, hello, Smitty. Join the party. You know Barney Rebstock. Sit down, Smith. Don't seem not to you these days.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

What do you have? Not a thing. Rev. Stock. Murray, I'd like to talk to you alone, if your friends don't mind.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We don't mind. Go ahead, Murray. But don't crowd us too far. Smith.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

This will do, Murray. Come on, sit down there.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What's on your mind?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

A lot of things have been happening lately. I just came in from Crawling Stone Flats. You were there when that train load of beef was ditched. Ah, you're crazy. No, Mary. That saw a gelling of yours through a shoe. I. I found it at the wreck. I also found the man who reshod your horse the next day.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You figuring it tie me into that wreck?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No, no, it's going to be tougher than that. I. I'm thinking to give you some advice.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, what do you know?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

The way I see it, Murray, you got off on the wrong foot with the wrong people.

[Narrator/Announcer]

So Marion's been Crying on your shoulder, huh?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You and Reb Stock are in this up to your necks. Why don't you pull out, Murray?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Pull out?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It's a big country. Pull out and get a fresh start someplace.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I'll cover your tracks. Sure. Me out of the way. The track would be clear for you and Marion.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Slipped a long way, haven't you, Mary?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Why, you. I. Get up, Smitty, and fight. What's the matter, Smith? You losing your touch?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't want to fight you. Now, Murray, to get this straight. If there's one more train wreck anywhere on this line, I. I'm coming after you. And I'll get you, Murray. Even if it means killing my best friend.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You are listening to the Screen Director's Playhouse production of Whispering Smith, starring Alan Ladd, and introduced by the director of the film, Leslie Fenton. You are in Dayton, Ohio. As you punch the time clock at the factory gate, you suddenly realize that your day's labors have left you hot, tired and thirsty. You are a man with one purpose. You know just where you are going. Like a homing pigeon, you head straight for that little blue sign in the window across the street. Pabst Blue Ribbon. Finest beer served anywhere. Yes, during these late summer days, you're just one of millions of men all over America to whom that Pabst Blue Ribbon sign means welcome relief for Pabst Blue Ribbon. Does something more than quench your thirst. It gives you taste. Blue Ribbon taste. The kind of taste you can't get anywhere else in the world except in that papped blue Ribbon bottle. And fortunately, you can get that papped Blue Ribbon bottle all over the world. Yes, you hear it everywhere. In Dayton and Dallas and Denver and Detroit. Pabst Blue Ribbon. Finest beer served anywhere. Your taste will tell you why. Now back to our Screen Director's Playhouse production of Whispering Smith, starring Alan Lang. The story of the railroad and the west was a story of stirring action and thrilling drama. It was also the drama of men. Two men. The friend who was good and the friend who was bad. And the woman who stood between.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

All right. All right, everyone. Give me the details. McLaun.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, the second section of number three. They jumped her while she was taking on Waller at Tower W. Killed the guard and got away with $60,000.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

They? Who's they?

[Narrator/Announcer]

We don't know. They were all masked. Brakeman here maybe of some help?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

It's hard to say, Mr. Smith.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It all happened so fast, I.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

How many were there? No more than six. Any of them you know anybody you could identify? No. You see, they all had handkerchiefs over the. Wait a minute. Yeah, the one that blasted the guard.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He had curly hair, sort of gray.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And he talked kind of funny.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Rebstock, you think it's him?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

This time we've got him. How many men of you can ride and shoot? Good. You're McLeod. Order up an engine. Have two stock cars spotted at the loading corral right away.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And I want a clear track between.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Here and Tower W. Put every westbound train on siding until we get by. Smith.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah, I can ride and shoot. As a special favor, let me come with you. I feel that this is partly my fault somehow.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Sure, sure, McLaren. We're glad to have you. Now, the rest of you ride straight to Williams Canyon. Turn back anyone that tries to get in.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We'll pick up the trail at Tower.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

W. If this is Rebstock's squad, we ought to have them between us sometime in the afternoon.

[Narrator/Announcer]

All right, boys.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Get going. On Smith. Yeah.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Is Merin clear in this?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I don't know. That's what I got to find out. I'll pick up with you. Williams Canyon. Hello, Mary. Murray home?

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

No.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Where is he?

[Susie]

He rode out with Rebstock last night. I. I talked with him last night as you asked me to, and he finally promised that we'd go away. Then he. He got the idea of selling out to Revstock.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Look.

[Susie]

What's the matter? What happened?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Early this morning, Rebstock's outfit held up number seven at Tower W. They. They killed a guard.

[Susie]

You think Murray was with them?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Yes, I do, Marion. And I'm afraid there's going to be more bloodshed.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You'd.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You'd better pack up and go into town where it's safe.

[Susie]

Where are you going, Luke?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I'm going to Williams, Cany.

[Narrator/Announcer]

All right, Sinclair. That's our cut. Five. Three. And I keep the cattle. Your idea of a partnership deal doesn't come out too even, Rebstock. You wanted the cash, Sinclair. I've got to unload the merchandise and also take care of the boys. Okay, count it out.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

They're coming.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Bonnie. What do you mean breaking in on us this way? Smith with a party.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Fifteen, maybe 20 of them at the mouth of the canyon.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I don't know about you, Rev Stock.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But I'm getting out of here running.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Has him, Claire? You betting fast? Come on, hand over my split. Watch a hurry. Don't you trust me? I said hand it over. I don't like being rushed, see? Put down that gun, Revstock.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

There they go.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You two after.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

In the doorway. Yeah.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Rebstock. Dead.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Killed by one of his own men.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And look at these crates piled around. Stolen freight from our train wrecks.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

This is the gang.

[Narrator/Announcer]

All right.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Come on. Let's go up. Look down below. They're cutting back to the canyon. Oh, boy.

[Lieutenant Keith / Sergeant Enrique Cotis / Other Male Characters]

Whoa.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Whoa.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Hand me the rifle, Cloud.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There are three of them.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Study.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You got one, you got two. The third one. Sinclair. Get him, Smith.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Shoot.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Judy's getting away. What's the matter?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

He's out of range.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Out of range? You could have hit him with a bean shooter.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I said he was out of range.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Maria.

[Susie]

Maria, you frightened me. You're hurt, Rebstock.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You wanted me to sell out and go away. Well, what are you waiting for?

[Susie]

You. You were a Tower W. What do.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know about Tower W? Who told you? Come on, who told you?

[Susie]

Marie, don't, please.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Was it Smith? Was he here?

[Susie]

Yes.

[Podcast Host]

Why, you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

That had your bags all packed. You were running out on me.

[Susie]

Don't, Marie.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I was only going to.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Somebody kill it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Your friend.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Luke and McLoud. Get away.

[Susie]

M. Don't worry. Don't shoot. If you do, they'll never stop till they hang you.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Then you get out. Come on.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Get rid of them.

[Narrator/Announcer]

If you don't, I will.

[Susie]

I'll send them away.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Brian. And here. Marion, quick. The wagon.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Shut.

[Susie]

Luke.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Why didn't you go into town like I told you?

[Susie]

I had to change my clothes. I. I had things to do.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I suppose Murray hasn't come back yet?

[Susie]

No. No, he hasn't.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You're lying. Marion. Murray's in the house, isn't he?

[Susie]

Yes, but he's hurt, Luke, badly.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

McLeod, get the dock.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Hey.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Right away.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

And you go with him. Marion, get in that buckboard. I'll. I'll see what I can do for Murray.

[Susie]

No, Luke, don't go in there. Murray's crazed. He's like a madman.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Get that buckboard out of here fast.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Go.

[Susie]

Come on.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah. Murray.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I'm coming in. Coming in to help you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Murray.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Murray.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Murray, I'm coming in to help you. Is it bad? Yeah, bad. Take it easy, Murray. Doc will be here soon.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You're wasting his time. That last one cut me pretty near in half.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Sorry. Look, I got it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, that's how it goes. You gotta have the breaks.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

You had them all, Marie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Anyway, I had one. I had Marion. That's one break you didn't get. Please.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Please. Take it easy, Murray.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Get me a drink, huh? On the table. Sure. Turn around, Luke. Slow.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

I. I thought I had your guns, Marie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Teach you never to turn your back.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Look.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Go ahead. Go ahead and shoot. Murray. Murray.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Murray.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

If there'd been any other way, I'd have played it different. You know that, don't you? The only cards I had were for the ones you dealt me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You have just heard the last act of the Screen Director's Playhouse production of Whispering Smith, starring Alan Ladd. In a moment, our star, with screen director Leslie Fenton, will return to the microphone. They call Hollywood the land of make believe. But when most of the movie stars are home in their own backyards, they lead normal, everyday lives, just like you and me. When they entertain, it's on a simple scale and in perfect taste. For instance, an afternoon at Gin Rummy or sitting around a pool is usually accompanied by tasty sandwiches and, of course, cold bottles of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. As a radio announcer, I get around quite a bit in Hollywood. And I'm mighty happy to report that I see Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer well, just about everywhere. In the homes of my motion picture friends, in the homes of orchestra leaders, musicians, cameramen, radio announcers, and in the best restaurants all over town. Yes, Pabst Blue Ribbon is not only a favorite here in Hollywood, but it's known the world over as the finest beer served anywhere. Your taste will tell you why. Next week on Screen Director's Playhouse, Pabst Blue Ribbon presents for the first time on the air, the motion picture comedy, don't trust your husband. And our star will be Fred McMurray. Now here again is tonight's star, Alan Ladd, and screen director, Leslie Fenton.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Les, I've been thinking about the way they introduced you at the beginning of the program.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, you mean that stuff about my acting?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Well, from what I heard, you used to play the most fiendish villains that ever snarled at a hero.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, that's just acting, Alan. Now, you always play the part of a hero. But I never snarled at you, do I?

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

No. But you come out on the set and say, alan, play it like this or play it like that.

[Narrator/Announcer]

But, Alan, that's my job.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

But you always do it so darn well. How can a villain like you play such a fine hero, Alan?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Maybe it's because I really have a beautiful soul.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Okay, beautiful. But maybe it's because you're a great actor and a swell director.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, thanks, alan.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Good night, Mr. Villain.

[Mr. Kwan / Lieutenant Marinos / Other Male Characters]

Good night, Mr.

[Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd)]

Hero. Good night, folks.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And good night to you, Alan Ladd and screen director. Leslie, when you buy your weekend supply of beer tomorrow morning, ask your dealer to show you Pabst Blue ribbon's new Handy 6 carton with a cleverly designed new easy to carry handle. It contains six regular sized cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon finest beer served anywhere. Ask for the handy six tomorrow. Whispering Smith was presented through the courtesy of Paramount Pictures, whose current release is Top of the Morning, starring Bing Crosby, Anne Blythe and Barry Fitzgerald. Alan Ladd will soon be seen in the Paramount Picture Chicago Deadline. Included into the nights cast were Ira Grozel, Michael Ann Barrett, Harley Bear, Herb Butterfield, Peter Leeds, Vic Perrin and Dan Riss. Whispering Smith was adapted for radio by Warren Lewis and original music was composed and conducted by Henry Russell. Portions of tonight's program were transcribed. Screen Director's Playhouse was produced by Howard Wiley with dramatic direction by Bill Karn. Listen again next week when Pabst Blue Ribbon presents Screen Directors Playhouse Production. Don't trust your husband. Director Lloyd Bacon star Fred McMurray. Screen Director's Playhouse is brought to you by the Pabst Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Newark, New Jersey and Peoria, Illinois, and sent your way with the best wishes of the Pabst Blue Ribbon dealers from coast to coast. James Wallington speaking. You're tuned for the stars on NBC.

[Podcast Host]

We just heard Alan ladd in box 13 and the screen Director's Playhouse. That will do it for this week's show. Thanks so much for joining me. I hope you'll be back next week for more Old Time Radio Detectives. In the meantime, you can check out Stars on Suspense, my other Old Time Radio podcast. New episodes of that show are out on Thursdays. If you like what you're hearing, don't be a stranger. You can rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com meansts OTR. I'll be back next Sunday with more Old Time Radio Detectives. But until then, good night and happy listening.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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.