Lux Radio Theatre - The Letter

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio

Lux Radio Theatre – "The Letter"

Aired: June 29, 2026

Starring: Bette Davis (Leslie Crosby), Herbert Marshall (Robert Crosby), James Stevenson (Howard Joyce)
Hosted by: Harold’s Old Time Radio
Original Lux Radio Theatre Production

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Overview

This episode is an audio adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham’s acclaimed stage play "The Letter," dramatized by Lux Radio Theatre and originally produced as a Hollywood film by Warner Bros. It features Bette Davis reprising her famous role, supported by Herbert Marshall and James Stevenson. "The Letter" tells the gripping, psychological tale of Leslie Crosby—a planter’s wife in Malaya—who fatally shoots a man and claims self-defense, only for dark secrets to unravel as the investigation and trial proceed.

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Key Discussion Points & Dramatic Segments

[01:19] The Setup: Malaya, Night of the Murder

• Scene: The play opens in a sultry, moonlit Malayan plantation, where shots ring out. Leslie Crosby claims to have killed Jeff Hammond in self-defense.
• Notable Quote:
  • Leslie Crosby (Bette Davis): "He tried to... to make love to me. And I shot him." (05:32)
• Tension: Immediate suspicion and protective efforts from her husband Robert and lawyer Howard Joyce.

[07:00] Leslie’s Account: The Night’s Events

• Interrogation: Leslie gives her meticulously detailed version of what happened, emphasizing Hammond’s aggression and her panic.
• Notable Quote:
  • Leslie Crosby: "Oh, it’s awful having to tell you all this. I’m so ashamed." (09:42)
• Tone: Leslie appears composed but vulnerable—a recurring theme questioned later.

[13:47] Aftermath: Legal & Emotional Turmoil

• Plans to take Leslie to Singapore for the magistrate. The threat of formal charges looms.
• Legal advisors debate her possible arrest and the likelihood of a murder charge.
• Notable Quote:
  • Robert Crosby: "It’s quite obvious the man only got what he deserved." (12:23)

[17:13] Howard & Robert: Guilt and Unraveling

• Robert and Howard, emotionally strained, discuss Leslie’s fate and the trial.
• The reputation and secrecy surrounding Hammond emerge, including mention of his Eurasian wife.

[19:15] The Existence of the Letter

• Howard’s clerk, Ong, reveals a damaging letter exists—evidence that could destroy Leslie’s self-defense claim.
• Notable Quote:
  • Ong: "The letter, sir, was written on the day of the late Mr. Hammond’s death… this letter indicates that her statement is not in every respect, accurate." (19:25)

[21:03] Leslie Confronted

• Howard confronts Leslie with the existence of the letter, which she initially denies, then confesses to writing.
• Notable Quote:
  • Attorney: "Leslie, the prosecution could cross-examine your houseboys. They would soon find out whether someone took a letter to Hammond on the day of his death." (23:41)
  • Leslie: "I swear to you that I did not write this letter… [then] I did write it, but I was afraid to mention it." (23:46, 23:57)

[29:23] The Extortion: Buying the Letter

• The letter is in the possession of Hammond’s widow, who will only hand it over for $10,000—every penny the Crosbys have.
• Notable Quote:
  • Leslie: "Do you mean to say you can save me and you won’t? What harm have I ever done you? You can’t be so cruel." (30:31)

[34:47] The Exchange

• Leslie is granted temporary release to deliver the money for the letter, meeting Hammond’s widow in the "Chinese Quarter."
• The handover is tense and humiliating; Leslie must remove her veil and pick up the letter at the woman's feet.

[39:32] The Trial

• The letter, now suppressed, prevents evidence harmful to Leslie’s defense.
• The jury finds Leslie not guilty.
• Notable Quote:
  • Jury Foreman: "We find the defendant not guilty." (39:42)

[40:31] After the Trial: Marriage in Crisis

• Robert, relieved, immediately wants to leave Malaya and start life anew in Sumatra—but Leslie is distracted, resistant.

[46:15] The Truth Emerges

• Payment for the letter and related legal expenses devastates the Crosbys’ finances.
• Under pressure, Leslie finally confesses: She was indeed in love with Jeff Hammond and killed him in a fit of passion and jealousy. The self-defense story is revealed as a lie.
• Notable Quote:
  • Leslie: "It means that I was in love with Jeff Hammond. We’ve been in love for years...I loathed myself...I seized the revolver and fired...That’s what happened. And I have no excuse for myself." (48:50)

[52:26] A Marriage Shattered

• Robert is emotionally destroyed by the confession; Leslie realizes her actions have ruined both their lives.
• Notable Exchange:
  • Robert: "How could you do this to me, Leslie, how could you?" (50:32)
  • Leslie: "With all my heart, I still love the man I killed." (52:40)

[53:58] Reckoning & Retribution

• A final confrontation: Hammond’s widow seeks revenge. Through a houseboy, Leslie is lured into the garden and killed.
• Notable Scene:
  • Houseboy: "Missy Hammond. She tell me I come here. Bring dagger, leave it outside window… She kill you. You go in guard." (54:15, 54:20)
  • Leslie’s refrain: "I don’t deserve to live. I don’t deserve to live." (55:57)

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Memorable Moments & Quotes

• On the roots of the tragedy:
  "[A volcano] had been dormant for years, and then suddenly the crest blew off … terrifying and beautiful." (Attorney, 36:43)
• Leslie’s inner torment:
  "I find [lace-making] soothing." (Leslie, 36:20 and repeated 53:25)
• On guilt and secrecy:
  "It’s strange that a man can live with a woman for ten years and not know the first thing about her." (Attorney, 31:36)
• Final confession:
  "With all my heart, I still love the man I killed." (Leslie, 52:40)

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Major Timestamps & Segments

• [01:19] — The letter’s murder: opening action
• [07:00] — Leslie’s first account, legal and emotional setup
• [17:13] — Robert and Howard’s emotional breakdown
• [19:15] — The letter revealed, opening cracks in Leslie’s defense
• [21:03] — Leslie’s interrogation and confession about the letter
• [29:23] — Strategy: acquiring the letter, extortion and moral conflict
• [34:47] — Letter handoff and dehumanization of Leslie
• [39:32] — Trial verdict and immediate aftermath
• [46:15] — The reckoning, Leslie’s final confession
• [52:40] — Leslie admits she still loves Hammond
• [53:58/55:05] — Leslie lured to her death by Hammond’s widow

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Dramatic & Thematic Highlights

• Self-Deception and Despair: The episode interrogates the nature of guilt, loyalty, and self-deception through Leslie’s unreliable narrative and eventual confession.
• Colonial Tensions: The backdrop of British Malaya, racial divisions, and the ambiguous morality of colonial society are present but secondary to the psychological drama.
• Psychological Complexity: Bette Davis’s portrayal of Leslie is emotionally nuanced, at times cool and brittle, at others desperate and exposed.

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Conclusion

"LUX Radio Theatre - The Letter" delivers a sharply-etched melodrama of murder, deceit, suppressed passion, and an exploration of the dark recesses of the human soul. The radio play’s immediacy and intimacy, amplified by standout performances—particularly Davis’s—make this a classic example of the Golden Age of Radio drawing-room tragedy.

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Recommended segment: For the shocking confession and psychological climax, listen from [46:15] – [55:00].

Notable Quote for Reflection:
"If you love a person, you can forgive anything. But what about you? Can you go on?"
– Robert Crosby (52:04)

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Overall Tone:
Classical, melodramatic, emotionally tense, with moments of both British restraint and raw confession.
Speaker Attribution: All quotations and emotions are faithfully attributed to the corresponding characters and actors as portrayed in the broadcast.

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(Summary prepared for listeners of Harold's Old Time Radio; skip all commercials, sponsor messages, and non-content material.)

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Robert Crosby]

Lux presents Hollywood.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The lux radio theatre brings you bette davis, herbert marshall and james stevenson in the letter.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. Cecil b. Demille. Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. I don't know which is more exciting to a producer, a play by Somerset Maugham or a performance by Bette Davis. But we have both in the Lux Radio Theatre tonight. And the pulse of this producer is beating double time for Ms. Davis again proves her genius in one of Mr. Maugham's most powerful dramas, the Letter. And you'll hear more than one star performance for with Ms. Davis, we have Herbert Marshall and James Stevenson, who share honors with her in Warner Brothers film production of this play. The Letter is the story of a beautiful woman fighting the heat and privations of a jungle back country who tears to shreds the lives of two men. It's a great part for a great actress. And we had no trouble in persuading Bette Davis to return from an eastern vacation to play it at this microphone. The result of her gracious gesture is the kind of bill that would mean standing room only in any ordinary theater. But of course, this theater always has enough seats to go around, all the way around the whole country. That's one reason it's a national theatre. Tonight's performance comes to you with the best wishes of Lux Flakes. And just as you have made this theater a weekly custom in so many American homes, you've made Lux Flakes a daily custom in your homes, too. And that adds up to an all American rating for both plays and product. And now get ready For a dramatic experience you'll never forget. The curtain rises on the letter, starring Bette Davis as Leslie Crosby, Herbert Marshall as Robert Crosby, and James Stevenson as Howard Joyce, with Sen Young as the lawyer's assistant. Just north of Singapore, on the Malay Peninsula, lie the great rubber plantations, Kingdoms of commerce worked by native labor, ruled by a handful of white men. In the main bungalow on one of these plantations, a light burns dimly through shaded windows. The night is hot and humid, the soft breeze heavy with the scent of flowers. A clouded moon hangs low in the sky, filtering slowly through the trees, making patterns of shimmering silver on the ground. There is deep silence. Suddenly, the door of the bungalow is flung open.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Missy. Missy, I hear gunfire. Mr. Crosby, I hear that man. That is Mr. Hammond.

[Leslie Crosby]

Is he dead?

[Robert Crosby]

I I I think him dead.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

You shoot him?

[Robert Crosby]

Ms. Crosby, do you know where the

[Leslie Crosby]

new district officer lives?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Yes, Missy.

[Leslie Crosby]

Send someone for him at once. Say there's been an accident. Mr. Hammond's dead.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Yes, Missy.

[Leslie Crosby]

And get word to my husband. He's out somewhere on the number four plantation.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Yes, Missy.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

I try.

[Robert Crosby]

Leslie. Leslie, where are you?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Leslie?

[Howard Joyce]

I'm here.

[Robert Crosby]

Mr. Crosby?

[Howard Joyce]

Yes.

[Robert Crosby]

I'm John Withers, the new district officer.

[Howard Joyce]

Where's Mrs. Crosby?

[Robert Crosby]

She locked herself in the room. She wouldn't see me until you came.

[Howard Joyce]

Excuse me. Leslie. Let me in. Leslie, darling, it's Robert. Leslie, what's happened?

[Leslie Crosby]

Didn't they tell you?

[Howard Joyce]

They said Hammond was killed.

[Leslie Crosby]

Is he Is he still out there?

[Robert Crosby]

I had your head boy remove the body to a shed.

[Howard Joyce]

Leslie, what happened? Tell me.

[Leslie Crosby]

He tried to. To make love to me. And I shot him.

[Robert Crosby]

Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, Robert, I'm so glad you've come.

[Howard Joyce]

Darling.

[Leslie Crosby]

Hold me tight. I'm so frightened.

[Howard Joyce]

There's nothing to be frightened about.

[Robert Crosby]

It'll be all right.

[Howard Joyce]

Well, now, that's better.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

I'll try not to do that again.

[Leslie Crosby]

Mr. Withers, I hope you'll understand. I didn't want to see anyone until my husband.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Of course.

[Robert Crosby]

I understand. Mrs. Crosby.

[Howard Joyce]

Howard. Come in.

[Attorney]

I got your message in Singapore.

[Leslie Crosby]

Howard, how nice of you to come.

[Attorney]

Naturally, I'd want to be here if I can help.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, you will help them.

[Attorney]

Of course I will, in every way I can.

[Leslie Crosby]

You're a dear.

[Howard Joyce]

Mr. Withers, this is Mr. Howard Joyce, my attorney.

[Robert Crosby]

How do you do?

[Attorney]

How do you do?

[Leslie Crosby]

How's Dorothy, Howard?

[Attorney]

Oh, she's very well and anxious to see you.

[Leslie Crosby]

Has her sister arrived from England?

[Robert Crosby]

Adele?

[Attorney]

Yes. Charming girl. She came last week.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh.

[Robert Crosby]

Oh, yeah.

[Attorney]

Here, you better be resting.

[Leslie Crosby]

I do feel dreadfully faint.

[Howard Joyce]

Come and lie down, Danny. I'll get you a drink.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'm sorry to be so tiresome.

[Howard Joyce]

Nonsense. You're being very brave.

[Robert Crosby]

She's bearing up wonderfully, Mr. Joyce. Yes.

[Attorney]

Yes, she is. How long have you been here?

[Robert Crosby]

About an hour. One of the Crosby houseboys came to fetch me.

[Attorney]

Was Hammond dead?

[Robert Crosby]

Oh, yes. He was just riddled with bullets.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What?

[Robert Crosby]

His revolver. All six chambers are empty.

[Howard Joyce]

Here, you two. You better have a drink yourselves.

[Robert Crosby]

Thanks, but I'm afraid I shouldn't. I'm unsolved for duty, you know.

[Attorney]

I have one, Bob. Well, you feeling any better, Leslie?

[Leslie Crosby]

Much better, thanks.

[Robert Crosby]

Mrs. Crosby. I know it seems brutal, but I'm afraid it's my duty to ask you some questions.

[Howard Joyce]

I think that can wait, Mr. Withers. Until my mother.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, it's all right, Robert, really. I feel perfectly well now.

[Attorney]

Then, suppose you tell us exactly what happened, Leslie.

[Robert Crosby]

I'll try and take your time, Mrs. Crosby. Remember, we're all friends here.

[Leslie Crosby]

You've been so patient. Well, as you know, Robert was spending the night at Number Four Plantation.

[Robert Crosby]

Why?

[Leslie Crosby]

Never mind being alone. A planter's wife gets used to that, my dear. I had dinner rather late and I started working on my lace. I don't know how long I'd been working when suddenly I heard footsteps outside. And someone came up in the veranda and said, good evening. Can I come in? Well, I was startled because I hadn't heard a car drive up. Who is it? I asked. Jeff Hammond, of course. I said, come in and have a drink.

[Attorney]

Were you surprised to see him?

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, I was rather. He hadn't been in the house for ages. Have you, Robert?

[Robert Crosby]

Three months at least.

[Leslie Crosby]

I told him Robert was over at the Number Four plantation getting out a shipment or something. Wasn't that it, darling?

[Robert Crosby]

What did he say to that?

[Leslie Crosby]

He said, oh, I'm sorry. I felt rather lonely tonight, so I thought I'd just come over and see how you were getting on. Well, I put on my spectacles again and went on with my work. We chatted about one thing and another. He asked me if Robert had heard that a tiger had been seen on the road two or three days ago. He said he thought he'd try to get it over the weekend.

[Howard Joyce]

Oh, yes, I know about that. Don't you remember? I spoke to you about it yesterday.

[Leslie Crosby]

Did you? Oh, yes, I believe you did. Well, we went on chatting until. Well, suddenly he said something rather silly.

[Robert Crosby]

What?

[Leslie Crosby]

It's hardly worth repeating. He paid me a little compliment.

[Attorney]

I think perhaps you better tell us exactly what he said.

[Leslie Crosby]

He said you've got very pretty eyes. It's too bad to hide them under those ugly spectacles.

[Attorney]

Ever said anything of the sort to you before?

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, no, never. And I thought it impertinent.

[Howard Joyce]

I don't wonder.

[Attorney]

And did you answer him?

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, I said. I don't care a row of beans what you think about me. But he only laughed and said, I'm going to tell you all the same. I think you're the prettiest thing I've ever seen.

[Robert Crosby]

Leslie.

[Attorney]

Let her finish, Paul.

[Leslie Crosby]

In that case, I said, I can only think you half witted. He laughed again and moved his chair up closer.

[Robert Crosby]

But, Mrs. Crosby, I wonder you didn't throw him out there and then.

[Leslie Crosby]

I didn't want to make a fuss. I. I think a woman makes a perfect fool of herself if she makes a scene every time a man pays her a compliment.

[Attorney]

When did you first suspect that Hammond was serious?

[Leslie Crosby]

The next thing he said, he looked at me straight in the face. Don't you know that I'm awfully in love with you?

[Robert Crosby]

Swine.

[Attorney]

Were you surprised?

[Leslie Crosby]

Of course I was surprised. Well, we've known him for seven years, Rob, but he's never paid me the smallest attention. I didn't suppose he even knew what color my eyes were.

[Howard Joyce]

We hadn't seen very much of him the last few years.

[Attorney]

Yes, yes, go on, Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, he helped himself to another whiskey and soda. I began to wonder if he'd been drinking before. I wouldn't drink anymore if I were you. I say. He emptied his glass and asked me in a funny, abrupt way, do you think I'm talking to you like this because I'm drunk? I said. That's the most obvious explanation, isn't it? Oh, it's awful having to tell you all this. I'm so ashamed.

[Robert Crosby]

I wish there was some way we could spare you, Mrs. Crosby.

[Attorney]

Leslie, it's for your own good that we know the facts. All you can remember of them.

[Leslie Crosby]

Very well. I'll tell you the rest. I got up from my chair. I was standing in front of the table about here. He rose and stood in front of me. I held out my hand. Good night, I said. But he just stood and looked at me and his eyes were all funny. I'm not going, he said. Well, then I began to lose my temper. You poor fool. Don't you know I've never loved anyone but Robert? And even if I didn't love Robert, you're the last man I should care for, he answered. Robert's away. Well, that was the last straw. I wasn't Frightened. Just angry. If you don't go away this minute, I told him, I'll call the boys and have you thrown out. I walked past him to call the boys from the veranda, and he took hold of my arm and swung me back, but I screamed as loud as I could. He flung his arms about me, began to kiss me. I struggled to tear myself away from him. Oh, he seemed like a madman. He kept talking and talking and saying he loved me and he loved me and. Oh, it's horrible. I can't go on.

[Attorney]

I'm sorry, Leslie, but we'll have to know the rest.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, he lifted me in his arms. I. I struggled to get free, but he was too strong for me. He started to carry me. And then, well, he stumbled on those steps. I got away from him. Suddenly I remembered Robert's revolver in the drawer of that chest. He got up and ran after me, but I reached it before he caught me. Oh, it was all instinctive. I didn't know what I was doing. I didn't even know I'd fired. I heard a report and saw him

[Robert Crosby]

lurch toward the door.

[Leslie Crosby]

I followed him out to the veranda. He staggered across the porch, grabbed the railing. It slipped through his hand as he fell down the steps. I don't remember anything more. Just the reports, one after another, until there was a funny little click and the revolver was empty. And suddenly I looked down and saw him lying there, lying in the moonlight. It was only then that I knew what I'd done.

[Robert Crosby]

My poor darling. Mrs. Crosby, may I say that I think you behaved magnificently. I'm terribly sorry that we had to put you to the ordeal of telling us all this.

[Leslie Crosby]

You are all very kind.

[Robert Crosby]

It's quite obvious the man only got what he deserved.

[Attorney]

Withers, if you'll come with me, I'd like to see the body.

[Robert Crosby]

Yes, I'll take you to the shed.

[Attorney]

We'll only be a few minutes.

[Howard Joyce]

My poor child.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, Robert, what have I done?

[Howard Joyce]

You've done what any woman would have done in your place. Only nine tenths on it. Wouldn't have had the courage.

[Leslie Crosby]

And yet I'd give almost anything if I could bring him back to life. It's so horrible to think that I killed him.

[Attorney]

Leslie.

[Howard Joyce]

Why, there isn't a man or a woman in the colony who won't be proud to know you.

[Leslie Crosby]

Darling, we have been happy, haven't we?

[Howard Joyce]

You've been the best wife a man could have. I'm grateful for all the time we've been together.

[Leslie Crosby]

Don't say it that way, darling, it sounds so. So in the past.

[Howard Joyce]

Nonsense.

[Robert Crosby]

We've got most of our lives ahead of us.

[Howard Joyce]

If only there was something I could do to help you right now.

[Leslie Crosby]

You can love me. That's all I need.

[Howard Joyce]

I've always loved you. Yes, but now, Leslie Darning, if I could love you anymore, I would.

[Leslie Crosby]

Now, Robert. You have to be very indulgent towards my cooking, gentlemen. I can't vouch for it.

[Howard Joyce]

Well, I can and will.

[Leslie Crosby]

Funny, the head boy running off tonight.

[Robert Crosby]

Yes, it is odd.

[Attorney]

Well, he couldn't have done better than this. My dear, it's delicious.

[Robert Crosby]

It certainly is.

[Leslie Crosby]

Thank you, gentlemen.

[Attorney]

I think we should start for Singapore as soon as we've finished.

[Leslie Crosby]

Right away.

[Howard Joyce]

It's still dark, Howard.

[Attorney]

It'll be 8 o' clock by the time we get there. We'll ring the Attorney General and find out when we can see him. I think that's the first, don't you, Withers?

[Robert Crosby]

Yes. Yes, I think that's the best thing to do.

[Leslie Crosby]

Would I have to be arrested?

[Robert Crosby]

Well, you see, Mrs. Crosby, as a

[Attorney]

matter of fact, I. I think you're by way of being under arrest now.

[Robert Crosby]

It's purely a matter of form, Mrs. Crosby.

[Leslie Crosby]

Shall I be imprisoned?

[Attorney]

That's up to the Attorney General. It's possible that after you've told him your story, he'll be able to accept bail.

[Howard Joyce]

He's a very good fellow. I'm sure he'll do everything he can.

[Leslie Crosby]

How do you mean, be able to accept bail?

[Attorney]

Well, my dear, it depends on what the charge is.

[Howard Joyce]

Well, what do you mean by that?

[Attorney]

I think it not unlikely that he'll say that only one charge is possible. And in that case. Well, I'm afraid an application for bail would be useless.

[Leslie Crosby]

What charge?

[Attorney]

Murder.

[Leslie Crosby]

Leslie, I'm quite all right. More coffee, darling?

[Howard Joyce]

No, no. As a matter of fact, if we're going to leave, I better put a few things together. It won't be long.

[Leslie Crosby]

Let me do it, Robert.

[Howard Joyce]

Don't bother, dear.

[Attorney]

Oh, Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes?

[Attorney]

There's just one question I'd like to ask you.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, what is it, Howard?

[Attorney]

When I was looking at Hammond's body.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes?

[Attorney]

It seemed to me that some of the shots must have been fired after he was lying on the ground.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'm afraid it sounds very cold blooded. But I was so terrified I didn't know what I was doing. Everything was confused and blurred.

[Attorney]

Leslie, I shouldn't have brought it up tonight. Put it out of your mind.

[Narrator/Announcer]

When maintaining your daily wellness rituals is important to you, the change in routine during the summer can feel daunting. Cachava's new travel packs help you stick to your daily ritual even when you're on the go. Just one packet of Cachava's all in One Nutrition Shake provides complete nutrition with 25 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, greens, adaptogens and much more. So you'll be fueled and ready for wherever life or your summer adventures take you. No fillers, no nonsense. Just the good stuff your body craves. Plus, it actually tastes delicious. But you can try it for yourself because the variety pack includes all six delicious fan favorites. Chocolate, vanilla, chai, matcha, coconut, acai and strawberry. So instead of worrying about sticking to your daily ritual, simplify it with Cachava. Go to kachava.com and use code Fitness for 15% off. That's K A C H-A-V A.com code

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[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Robert Crosby]

Come in.

[Attorney]

Where long.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

She's saying Mr. Crosby to see you, sir.

[Robert Crosby]

Oh, ask him to come in, Mr. Crosby.

[Leslie Crosby]

Thanks.

[Attorney]

Hello, Bob.

[Howard Joyce]

Howard. How is she?

[Robert Crosby]

Sit down, Bob.

[Howard Joyce]

Have you seen her?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

If I can be of any assistance, sir, I shall remain within call.

[Attorney]

Not at the moment, Dong.

[Robert Crosby]

Thanks.

[Attorney]

Ong's been of great help on the case and finds out everything. The perfect confidential clerk.

[Howard Joyce]

I tried to catch you at the house. I had to see you, Howard.

[Attorney]

You needn't hesitate about coming to the office, Bob. You know you're always welcome.

[Howard Joyce]

How is everything?

[Attorney]

Everything's fine. In fact, Leslie is much better than you. She hasn't turned a hair.

[Howard Joyce]

She's worth 10 of me. I don't mind confessing. I'm all in. It's the first time we've been separated for more than a day since we were married.

[Attorney]

You mustn't let yourself go to pieces, Dom.

[Howard Joyce]

I've tried to work, but it's no good. The estate can go to blazers for all I care. I hate the house and every tree on the place.

[Attorney]

And why not stay in town with us? Dorothy's for it, and so am I.

[Howard Joyce]

Thanks. I think I will. I won't be so lonely.

[Attorney]

Oh, you better get some sleep. And after your planters closed before you see Leslie, you Don't want her to have to cheer you up.

[Howard Joyce]

She's a plucky woman. It's monstrous. They should have kept her in that filthy prison all this time.

[Attorney]

I had no choice. Anyway, it's only a week now before the trial.

[Howard Joyce]

The whole thing's a fast. Why subject her to the ordeal of a trial?

[Attorney]

Because she admitted killing a man. In a civilized community, a trial's inevitable.

[Howard Joyce]

She shot him, or she would have shot a mad dog.

[Attorney]

You don't have to convince me, Bob. It's curious that Hammond was able to keep his life so hidden. That gambling house he owned, and especially the Eurasian woman.

[Howard Joyce]

Could she be one of the witnesses?

[Robert Crosby]

I shan't call her.

[Attorney]

I'll just produce evidence that Hammond was married to her.

[Howard Joyce]

He managed to keep that marriage a secret, too.

[Robert Crosby]

Oh, I know you're busy, Howard.

[Howard Joyce]

I can't tell you how grateful I am.

[Attorney]

Oh, nonsense. Now stop worrying about the trial. That's your lawyer's job.

[Howard Joyce]

Thanks, old man. I see you up at the house.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Yes, Mr. Joyce.

[Attorney]

Well, on.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

If you are not too busy, sir, might I trouble you for a few words in private conversation?

[Attorney]

No trouble at all, Ong.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

It has to do with the case of the Crown versus Crosby.

[Robert Crosby]

Yes?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

A friend has brought me information, sir, that there is in existence a letter from the defendant to the unfortunate victim of the tragedy.

[Attorney]

That's not surprising. In the course of seven years. I've no doubt Mrs. Crosby often had occasion to write to Mr. Hammond.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

But the letter, sir, was written on the day of the late Mr. Hammond's death. Well, you will no doubt recall that Mrs. Crosby has stated that until the fatal night, she had had no communication with the deceased for several weeks. In my opinion, this letter indicates that her statement is not in every respect, accurate.

[Attorney]

Have you seen the letter?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

I have with me a copy, sir. The original is in possession of a woman who happens to be the widow of Mr. Hammond, deceased.

[Attorney]

May I read it?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Oh, certainly, sir. Of course. As I said, this is but a copy in my handwriting. You can understand it, sir, perfectly.

[Attorney]

Ong. It's inconceivable that Mrs. Crosby should have

[Robert Crosby]

written such a letter.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

May I suggest, sir, that it would be well to make sure, since my friend is of the opinion that the letter might be of some interest to

[Attorney]

the prosecutor, I'm obliged to hong. I'll give the matter my consideration.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Very good, sir. Do you wish me to communicate that to my friend?

[Attorney]

Might be well if you kept in touch with him.

[Robert Crosby]

Yes.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Yes, sir, it might be. Very well.

[Leslie Crosby]

You may stay in the visiting Room as long as you want, Mrs. Crosby.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

The warden's orders.

[Leslie Crosby]

That's very nice of him. Thank you. Howard, how good of you to come. I wasn't expecting you today.

[Attorney]

Good morning, Leslie. You're looking very well.

[Leslie Crosby]

Thank you, Howard.

[Attorney]

Well, the tryon's only five days off now.

[Leslie Crosby]

I know. Each morning when I awake, I say to myself, one less. Just like I used to at school, with the holidays coming. Oh, don't feel sorry for me, Howard. Time has really passed quite quickly. I've read a great deal and worked on my lace. But I'll. I'll confess something to you, Howard. I'm not looking forward to testifying in court.

[Attorney]

Leslie, one of the things that's impressed me is that each time you told your story, you've told it in exactly the same words. You've never varied a hair's breadth.

[Leslie Crosby]

What does that suggest to your legal mind?

[Attorney]

Well, it suggests either that you have an extraordinary memory or.

[Leslie Crosby]

Or?

[Attorney]

Or that you're telling the plain, unvarnished truth.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'm afraid I have a very poor memory.

[Attorney]

I suppose I'm right in thinking that you had no communication with Hammond for several weeks before the catastrophe.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, quite. I'm positive of that. Let's see. The last time we met was at a tennis party at the McFarrens. I don't think I said more than two words to him.

[Attorney]

And you hadn't written to him?

[Robert Crosby]

Oh, no.

[Attorney]

One time. You've been on fairly intimate terms with him.

[Robert Crosby]

How did it happen that you stopped

[Narrator/Announcer]

asking him to anything?

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, we hadn't anything much in common, and he was very popular, you know, Had a good many calls on his time. And, well, there didn't seem to be any need to shower him with invitations.

[Attorney]

Are you quite certain that was all?

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, I may as well tell you. We heard about his. His wife. And once, just by chance, I actually saw her.

[Attorney]

Oh? You never mentioned that.

[Robert Crosby]

What was she like?

[Leslie Crosby]

Horrible. Covered with gold chains and bangles and bracelets and a face like a mask.

[Attorney]

And it was after you knew about her that you stopped having anything to do with Hammond?

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes.

[Attorney]

Leslie, I think I should tell you that there is in existence a letter in your handwriting from you to Jeff Hammond.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, well, I've often sent him little notes to ask him something or other.

[Attorney]

This letter asks him to come and see you because Robert was going to be away.

[Leslie Crosby]

But that's impossible. I never did anything of the kind.

[Attorney]

You better read it for yourself.

[Leslie Crosby]

This is not my handwriting.

[Attorney]

I know. It's said to be an exact copy of One written on the day of Hammond's death. Well, there's no.

[Leslie Crosby]

What does it mean?

[Attorney]

That's for you to say.

[Leslie Crosby]

Leslie, I didn't write it. I swear I didn't write it.

[Attorney]

The original is in your handwriting. Be no use denying it.

[Leslie Crosby]

It could be a forgery.

[Robert Crosby]

Difficult to prove that.

[Attorney]

It would be easy to prove it was genuine.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, it's not dated. It might have been written years ago. Oh, if you'll give me a little time, I'll try to remember.

[Attorney]

Leslie, the prosecution could cross examine your house boys. They would soon find out whether someone took a letter to Hammond on the

[Robert Crosby]

day of his death.

[Leslie Crosby]

I swear to you that I did not write this letter.

[Robert Crosby]

Very well.

[Attorney]

And there's nothing more to talk about. I'll be going.

[Leslie Crosby]

Howard. Howard, wait a minute. I. I did write it, but I was afraid to mention it. I thought none of you would believe my story if I admitted that he'd come there at my invitation.

[Attorney]

Go on.

[Leslie Crosby]

You see, I. I was preparing a surprise for Robert's birthday. I knew he wanted a new gun. And I'm so dreadfully stuck about sporting things. I thought I'd talk to Jeff about it and get him to order it for me.

[Attorney]

Perhaps you've forgotten what's in the letter. Will you have another look at it?

[Leslie Crosby]

No, I don't want to.

[Attorney]

And let me read it to you.

[Robert Crosby]

Robert will be away.

[Attorney]

I absolutely must see you. I'm desperate. And if you don't come, I won't

[Robert Crosby]

answer for the consequences. Don't drive up to the door, Leslie.

[Attorney]

I shall have to talk to you very plainly.

[Robert Crosby]

I told Bob today that I was

[Attorney]

certain of your acquittal. And I didn't say that just to cheer him up. I don't believe the jury would have retired at all. But this letter alters the case completely. I won't tell you what I personally thought when I read the letter. The duty of counsel is to defend his client, not to convict her even in his own mind. I don't want you to tell me anything but what is needed to save your neck. They can prove that Hammond came to your house at your urgent invitation.

[Howard Joyce]

I don't know what else they can prove.

[Attorney]

But if the jury comes to the conclusion that you didn't kill Hammond in self defense.

[Leslie Crosby]

No, they, they, they.

[Robert Crosby]

Leslie. Matron. Matron.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Quickly.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, sir.

[Attorney]

Call nurse.

[Robert Crosby]

Mrs. Crosby's il.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Mr. DeMille will return in just a

[Narrator/Announcer]

moment with our stars, Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall and James Stevenson for Act 2 of the letter. Well, Sally here looks as if she Wanted to say something first. What is it, Sally?

[Leslie Crosby]

I just want to look into the future for a moment. Mr. Ruig.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes. What do you see there, Sally?

[Leslie Crosby]

Good news. A hundred years from now, there won't be any spring house cleaning.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You don't say. Why not?

[Leslie Crosby]

Because everything in the house will be waterproof. You just hose down a room and presto, it's clean.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Very simple indeed.

[Robert Crosby]

But it won't help women who are

[Narrator/Announcer]

doing their spring house cleaning right now.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, but I know something that'll make things awfully easy for them.

[Narrator/Announcer]

So do I. New Quick Luxe Flakes.

[Leslie Crosby]

Right. And I've heard loads of women say they've never seen anything like it. They love the way it bursts into suds at the touch of water.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, and it's amazing how rich those suds are, too. All fine, pure soap. No harmful alkali of any kind.

[Leslie Crosby]

And New Quick Luxe goes so far.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes. And it gives more suds ounce for ounce than any of 10 other soaps tested. And that's true even in hard water. It's thrifty. It's so safe, too. There's nothing to hurt any color or fabric that's safe in water alone.

[Leslie Crosby]

It's wonderful how nice curtains and blankets and bedspreads look after a dip in New Quick Lux.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And that goes for dozens of other things, too. Everything safe in water alone. Ladies, now that you're busy with your spring house cleaning, get the fast, easy help New quicklux gives. Ask your grocer for a thrifty big box of New Quick Lux Flakes tomorrow. It comes in the same familiar package at no extra cost.

[Leslie Crosby]

And here's more news. Right now, thousands of grocers are featuring New Quicklux Flakes in their spring house cleaning sale. It's a grand time to stock up.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Use New Quick Lux for all your soap and water tasks to help keep your things new looking longer to save your hands. We pause now for station identification. This is the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Act two of the Letter, starring Bette Davis as Leslie Crosby, Herbert Marshall as Robert Crosby and James Stevenson as Howard Joyce.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Commercial Announcer]

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[Cecil B. DeMille]

In that split fraction of a moment, before her mind slipped into the blackness, Leslie Crosby realized that the letter she had written to Jeff Hammond was damning evidence enough to hang her. Now, a few minutes later, in the first aid room of the prison hospital, she leans wearily back in her chair, her eyes half closed.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'm afraid I've made rather a mess of things.

[Robert Crosby]

I'm sorry for Robert.

[Leslie Crosby]

Not for me. You've distrusted me from the beginning, Howard.

[Attorney]

That's neither here nor there, Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

Who's got the letter now?

[Attorney]

The Eurasian woman who was Hammond's wife.

[Robert Crosby]

Oh.

[Leslie Crosby]

How are you going to let me be hanged?

[Robert Crosby]

What do you mean by that, Leslie?

[Leslie Crosby]

You could get hold of the letter.

[Attorney]

Do you think it's so easy to do away with unwelcome evidence?

[Leslie Crosby]

Surely nothing would have been said to you if the owner wasn't quite prepared to sell it.

[Attorney]

That's quite true, but I'm not prepared to buy it.

[Leslie Crosby]

But it wouldn't be your money. Robert has saved some.

[Robert Crosby]

I wasn't thinking of the money.

[Attorney]

I don't know if you'll understand this, Leslie, but I've always thought of myself as an honest man.

[Robert Crosby]

You're asking me to do something which is no better than suborning a witness.

[Leslie Crosby]

Do you mean to say you can save me and you won't? What harm have I ever done you? You can't be so cruel.

[Attorney]

I want to do my best for you, Leslie.

[Robert Crosby]

But a lawyer has a duty to his profession and to himself. I can't do what you ask.

[Leslie Crosby]

Poor Robert. He doesn't deserve it. He's never hurt anyone in his life. He's so kind and simple and good and he trusts me. So I mean everything to him, everything in the world. And this will ruin his life. Oh, I know what you're thinking. You despise me. You think he's well rid of me if they do hang me.

[Robert Crosby]

I don't despise you. It isn't important what I feel about you. Do you understand?

[Attorney]

I'm going to do what I can. Bob will want to know what the money's for.

[Leslie Crosby]

Will it be a very large sum?

[Attorney]

I imagine this woman has a pretty shrewd idea of the letter's value.

[Leslie Crosby]

You won't have to show Robert the letter, will you?

[Attorney]

I'll do everything possible to prevent him from seeing it. He'll be an important witness, and he should be as firmly convinced of your innocence as he is now.

[Leslie Crosby]

And after the trial, I'm going to

[Attorney]

try and save your life.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Oh.

[Leslie Crosby]

If Robert loses his trust in me, he loses everything.

[Attorney]

It's strange that a man can live with a woman for 10 years and not know the first thing about her.

[Howard Joyce]

There.

[Attorney]

You think your friend could be induced

[Robert Crosby]

to part with the letter?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

I believe so, sir. But my friend has not got the letter. The woman has it. She did not know its value until my friend told her.

[Robert Crosby]

What value did he put on it?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

$10,000, sir.

[Robert Crosby]

Only 10,000?

[Attorney]

Why not 50 or 100?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

For the reason, sir, that Mr. Crosby has in the bank of the British Malaya Company a savings account in the amount of only $10,450.

[Attorney]

$10,000 is a good deal of money, Ong.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Yes, it is a good deal of money.

[Attorney]

Well, I'll speak to Mr. Crosby. Have the woman come to my office.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

I was about to mention, sir, she made two conditions. She insists that the money shall be brought to her. I can take you to the house whenever you are ready, sir.

[Attorney]

What's the other condition?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

That Mrs. Crosby shall bring it to her personally.

[Attorney]

You must be mad. Good heavens, man. Do you suppose Mrs. Crosby can just

[Robert Crosby]

walk out of a prison cell whenever she feels like it?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

My friend thinks you could arrange to have her stay at your house until the trial. I believe the judge will permit it if you are responsible for her, sir.

[Attorney]

Aung Ji Sing.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Yes, sir.

[Attorney]

What are you getting out of this?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

$2,000, sir, and the satisfaction of being of service to you and our client.

[Robert Crosby]

Sit down, Howard.

[Howard Joyce]

I've taken the liberty of ordering for you.

[Robert Crosby]

Oh, thanks.

[Attorney]

Well, you're looking more cheerful, Bob.

[Howard Joyce]

I feel better since this morning. I guess you finally convinced me. We've nothing to worry about.

[Robert Crosby]

Well, as a matter of fact, Bob, something's come up.

[Attorney]

Oh, it's nothing very much, but I thought I'd better have a talk with you about it.

[Robert Crosby]

Yeah.

[Attorney]

It seems that Leslie wrote a letter to Hammond asking him to come to the bungalow on the night he was killed.

[Howard Joyce]

Why, that's impossible. You heard her say she'd had no communication with him for weeks before it happened.

[Attorney]

Nevertheless, she did write the letter.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

She.

[Robert Crosby]

She wanted his advice on something she

[Attorney]

was buying you for your birthday. Her birthday was about then, wasn't it?

[Howard Joyce]

Yes, end of April.

[Attorney]

In the excitement, she forgot the letter at the time and then later was afraid to say she'd meant a man mistake.

[Howard Joyce]

But that's not like Leslie. She isn't afraid of anything.

[Attorney]

Well, this was a pretty serious mistake, and she realized it.

[Howard Joyce]

Who has the letter?

[Attorney]

Hammond's widow. And she threatens to turn it over to the prosecution.

[Howard Joyce]

Well, what if she does? Leslie can explain it in court just to explain it to you.

[Attorney]

Yes, but don't you see? It might alter things a good deal in the minds of the jury if Hammond came to your house by invitation.

[Howard Joyce]

Well, what's to be done about it?

[Attorney]

I think we must go hold of that letter. I want you to authorize me to buy it.

[Howard Joyce]

I'll do whatever you think is right.

[Robert Crosby]

Buy the letter.

[Howard Joyce]

I'll pay you back whatever it costs.

[Attorney]

Good. Now put the matter out of your mind. Oh, by the way, Leslie will be at the house tonight. I arranged to have her release pending trial.

[Leslie Crosby]

Leslie, don't tell me that's the same lace I saw you working on at the McFarren's. How can you go so fast? Well, I haven't had anything else much to do this past month. What's it going to be? It's too fine for a tablecloth. Surely it's a coverlet for our bed.

[Attorney]

Oh, Dorothy, Leslie and I have some work to do this evening.

[Robert Crosby]

Look here, Bob, why don't you take

[Attorney]

the girls to a picture?

[Howard Joyce]

Well, it won't take all evening, will it, Rob?

[Attorney]

Well, there's a lot to go over. No use your three hanging around. You'd much better see a good.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, darling, go ahead. It'll take your mind off tomorrow. I want you to.

[Howard Joyce]

All right, then. I'll bring the car around.

[Leslie Crosby]

Come on, Adele. I can see the legal mind is anxious to get rid of us. Night, Leslie. Good night. Where do we have to go?

[Attorney]

Chinese Quarter. Some sort of a shop, I believe.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, I always wanted to see the Chinese Quarter. I hear it's a bit creepy. Of course, I'd have chosen other circumstances for a visit.

[Attorney]

Be flippant about your own crimes if you want to, but don't be flippant about mine.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'm sorry, Howard. I didn't mean to be flippant. Really, I didn't.

[Attorney]

Maybe it's my own sense of guilt, but I have an unpleasant feeling that I'll have To pay the piper for what I'm doing tonight. I'm jeopardizing my whole career, and I have to rely on your discretion.

[Leslie Crosby]

Whatever else I am, I'm not ungrateful.

[Attorney]

Oh, forget what I said. When did you first start doing that lacework, Leslie?

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, a few years ago.

[Attorney]

How did you happen to take it up?

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, I wanted something to do, and it appealed to me.

[Attorney]

But it must take enormous concentration and patience.

[Leslie Crosby]

I find it soothing.

[Robert Crosby]

You mean it takes your mind off other things?

[Leslie Crosby]

Is that a legal question?

[Attorney]

You're not an ordinary client, Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

You've been watching me, Howard. I felt it all evening. Trying to read my thoughts.

[Attorney]

I'm trying to understand you.

[Leslie Crosby]

Why? Because I'm so. So evil. That's it, isn't it?

[Attorney]

Some time ago, I saw a volcano erupt an island south of here. Guadi. It had been dormant for years, and then suddenly the crest blew off.

[Robert Crosby]

It was terrifying and beautiful.

[Attorney]

Fire turned the sea and sky crimson, and three villagers melted into ashes.

[Robert Crosby]

It's time we were starting. Aunt Ji Seng will be waiting for us.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Come in, please, come in. This is the shop of my friend. If you will wait here, I will return if in just a moment.

[Attorney]

Let's not be too long about it, Ong.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

I will speak to the lady at once, sir.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, you seem to have a little of everything to sell here.

[Attorney]

Most of these shops do.

[Leslie Crosby]

That looks like good jade. And this dagger. See the workmanship and the ivory handle? Imagine all that on a knife.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

He who kills with an unworthy tool commits two crimes, one against himself. Will you follow me, please? The lady will see you now.

[Attorney]

Where is she? You said she'd be here.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

She is coming, sir.

[Attorney]

Well, what's she standing there for?

[Robert Crosby]

Ask her if she has the letter.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Yes, sir. Misses Crosby, I regret, but the veil that you wear over your head, Mrs. Hammond requests that you remove it.

[Leslie Crosby]

Of course.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Hugh. Que fongole.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Mrs. Crosby, Mrs. Herman has a further request. She wishes you to walk over to her.

[Attorney]

Now, look here. Tell her this is enough.

[Leslie Crosby]

It's all right, Howard. I don't mind.

[Robert Crosby]

May you leave home soon.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

But they can love.

[Leslie Crosby]

What does she say?

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

Mrs. Hammond, you may have the letter, if you will pick it up at her feet.

[Leslie Crosby]

Thank you,

[Howard Joyce]

Gentlemen of the jury. And you agreed upon a verdict?

[Cecil B. DeMille]

We have, your honor.

[Robert Crosby]

Prisoner will please rise and look upon the jury.

[Howard Joyce]

You find the prisoner at the bar, Leslie Crosby, guilty or not guilty?

[Cecil B. DeMille]

We find the defendant not guilty.

[Leslie Crosby]

And from that day on, I made a solemn vow that I wouldn't make another cocktail until Leslie was acquitted. So if these aren't up to my usual high standard, remember I'm out of practice.

[Howard Joyce]

Darling, they're wonderful. Never been better.

[Leslie Crosby]

Robert Crosby. Right. Now, you wouldn't know what you were drinking.

[Howard Joyce]

I guess that's right. I can't taste or think or feel. All I can do is keep saying to myself over and over, leslie's safe, darling.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, anyone planning to bathe shall respond before dinner. Should be getting at it. A shower for me. I've laid out some things for you, Leslie. Thank you, darling. I'm going to tidy myself up a bit.

[Howard Joyce]

No, don't go, Leslie.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Why?

[Leslie Crosby]

Shan't be a minute.

[Howard Joyce]

There's something I particularly want to talk to you about. And how. I want to see you, too. I want your legal opinion.

[Attorney]

Oh, you do?

[Robert Crosby]

What's up?

[Howard Joyce]

Well, I want to get Leslie away from here as quickly as possible.

[Attorney]

I think a bit of a holiday.

[Howard Joyce]

Do you both good. No, no, I mean for good.

[Leslie Crosby]

But how could we?

[Attorney]

Can't very well throw up your job.

[Howard Joyce]

But I've got something in view that's much better. It's in Sumatra. We'd be away from everybody and the only people around us would be Dutch. We'd start a new life. The only thing is that you'd be awfully lonely, darling, at the start.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, I wouldn't mind that. I'd like to go, Robert. I don't want to stay here.

[Howard Joyce]

That settles it, then. I'll go straight ahead and we can fix things up at once.

[Attorney]

Is the money as good as here?

[Howard Joyce]

I hope it'll be better. At all events, I'll be working for myself and not for a company in London. What do you mean? Why should I go on sweating my life out for other people? This plantation belongs to a Malacca Chinese planter who's in financial difficulties, and he's willing to let it go for $30,000 if he can get the money the day after tomorrow.

[Attorney]

How on earth are you going to raise $30,000?

[Howard Joyce]

Well, I've saved about 10, and the bank is willing to let me have the balance on mortgage.

[Leslie Crosby]

Robert, darling. Well, I shouldn't like you to take such a risk on my account. I'll be perfectly all right here. Really I shall.

[Howard Joyce]

Nonsense, darling. You just said you wanted to go.

[Leslie Crosby]

No, but I'm not sure it wouldn't be a mistake to run away. Everyone's been so kind and they'll all help to. To make it easy for us. I think the thing to do is to stick it out here.

[Attorney]

Anyhow, it's not a Thing you want to rush into?

[Robert Crosby]

Let's wait and see.

[Howard Joyce]

Why should I wait? It's a good thing I don't want to lose it. Look, I got all the papers in my briefcase. I'll go and get them and you can see for yourself. And I have a couple of photographs of the bungalow to show Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

I don't want to see them. Please, Robert.

[Howard Joyce]

Oh, come, darling. That's just nerves. That shows how necessary it is for you to get away.

[Leslie Crosby]

But, Robert.

[Howard Joyce]

Leslie, darling, in this case, you must let me have my own way. I won't be a minute.

[Leslie Crosby]

Howard. What are you going to do?

[Attorney]

What can I do?

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, don't tell him now. I can't bear anymore.

[Attorney]

You heard what he said. Wants the money at once to buy the estate.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He can't.

[Attorney]

He hasn't got it.

[Leslie Crosby]

Give me a little time. I can pay it back.

[Attorney]

Leslie, I can't afford to let you

[Robert Crosby]

have a sum like that.

[Attorney]

I've mortgaged everything I own. I was glad to advance it, but I can't.

[Leslie Crosby]

Where is the letter?

[Attorney]

I have it in my pocket.

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, it will break his heart. What shall I do?

[Attorney]

I don't know, Leslie. If I tell him, he'll want to see the letter.

[Robert Crosby]

Of course. Here we are. He's coming. What's I do, Leslie? It's up to you. Well,

[Leslie Crosby]

tell him. Tell him and have done with it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The lights come up in the Lux Radio Theater as the curtain falls on Act 2 of the letter, starring Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall and James Stevenson. Will everyone remain very quiet, please? Because in this brief intermission, I've asked one of our audience to help me in a little test. Here she comes to the microphone now. Her name is Mrs. Lee Millar. And your home, Mrs. Millar, is Oakland, California. Well, we are delighted to have you with us, Mrs. Millar. Now, do you see what I have in my hand?

[Leslie Crosby]

Why, two rubber bands?

[Robert Crosby]

Yes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Will you take this one and stretch it as far as it will go? That's right. It stretches then snaps right back, doesn't it?

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, Mr. Roy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, now do the same with the other.

[Leslie Crosby]

Why, it's broken in two.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, because the second rubber band was all dried out, had lost all its elasticity, so it broke under strain.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator/Announcer]

Now, the reason I asked Mrs. Millar to make this test was because the very same thing can happen to stockings. You see, when stockings are new and live and supple, they have great elasticity. They can stretch as you walk or run or stoop down, then spring back into shape with each motion of your leg.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, that's true.

[Narrator/Announcer]

But if the threads get all dried out and lifeless, why, then they break when they stretch. Right. Now, one way to weaken elasticity is to use a soap that contains harmful alkali. This dries out the fibers. Another way is to rub with cake soap. This weakens the fibers, makes them less elastic and more apt to break under strain. And you have a run.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, I always lux my stockings, Mr. Roy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Good, because Lux saves elasticity. New Quick Luxe flakes have no harmful alkali. And with Lux, there's no rubbing. That's why Lux keeps silk elastic and cuts down runs. No wonder it's America's favorite stocking care and recommended by over 90% of the makers of both silk and nylon stockings in the United States. Why not save your stockings by washing them every night with New Quick Luxe Flowers flakes? Now, our producer, Mr. DeMille.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Curtain rises on the third act of the letter. Robert Crosby has returned to the room, his thoughts full of plans for the purchase of the new plantation. In silence, Leslie and Joyce watch Robert, brimming over with enthusiasm, arrange his papers on the desk.

[Howard Joyce]

This is really a handsome estate. We'll be stealing it for 30,000.

[Attorney]

Bob, I. I don't like to throw cold water on your plans, but hasn't it struck you that the costs of what we've just been through will be pretty heavy?

[Robert Crosby]

Costs?

[Howard Joyce]

Oh, yes, the legal expenses.

[Attorney]

Oh, you know I couldn't charge you anything for my services. But there are certain out of pocket

[Howard Joyce]

expenses that all be decent of you. I'm not sure I could accept that. But what do these other expenses amount to?

[Attorney]

Well, the principal item is that letter of Leslie's I mentioned to you.

[Howard Joyce]

Oh, yes, I'd almost forgotten. You see, you were going to.

[Attorney]

I had to pay a great deal of money for it.

[Howard Joyce]

Well, if you thought it necessary. I'm not going to grouse. How much was it?

[Attorney]

$10,000.

[Robert Crosby]

$10,000?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Which.

[Attorney]

He must have been mad, you may be quite sure. I wouldn't have Given that, if I could have got it for less.

[Robert Crosby]

That's every cent I have in the world. Why didn't you let them bring the

[Howard Joyce]

letter in and explain it to the jury?

[Attorney]

I didn't dare.

[Robert Crosby]

What?

[Howard Joyce]

You mean it was absolutely necessary to

[Attorney]

suppress it if you wanted Leslie acquitted?

[Howard Joyce]

What was there in the letter?

[Attorney]

I told you at the time.

[Leslie Crosby]

It was very stupid of me. Robert.

[Howard Joyce]

I remember now. You wrote to Hammond to ask him to come to the bungalow.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes.

[Howard Joyce]

You wanted to get something for me, didn't you?

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, I wanted to get you a gun. He knew all about that sort of thing. And you know how ignorant I am.

[Howard Joyce]

Buying that letter was a criminal offense, wasn't it?

[Attorney]

Well, not the sort of thing a respectable lawyer does in the ordinary way of business.

[Howard Joyce]

It was a criminal offense.

[Attorney]

Yes, it was. I might be disbarred for it.

[Howard Joyce]

Then why did you do it? You of all people? What were you trying to save me from? Leslie? You knew I was buying a gun from Cameron. Why did you want to make me a present of another?

[Leslie Crosby]

How should I know you're going to buy a gun?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Because I told you I'd forgotten.

[Leslie Crosby]

I can't remember everything.

[Robert Crosby]

You hadn't forgotten that?

[Leslie Crosby]

What do you mean? Robert, why are you talking to me like that?

[Howard Joyce]

You have the letter now I have?

[Robert Crosby]

Where is it, Bob?

[Attorney]

It's not your letter or mine.

[Howard Joyce]

I've got to pay $10,000 for that letter. I'm going to see it.

[Leslie Crosby]

Let him see it.

[Howard Joyce]

Thank you. Robert will be away. I absolutely must.

[Attorney]

What does this mean?

[Leslie Crosby]

It means that I was in love with Jeff Hammond.

[Howard Joyce]

No, you couldn't.

[Leslie Crosby]

We've been in love for years.

[Robert Crosby]

It's not true.

[Leslie Crosby]

I used to meet him constantly. Once or twice a week. Every time we met. I hated myself for it. It was horrible. I loathed myself. I was like a person who was ill. Then came a time about a year ago when he began to change toward me. I didn't know it was the matter. I was free. I made scenes. I threw myself at his feet.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Lovely.

[Leslie Crosby]

Then I heard about that. That native woman. Oh, I couldn't believe it. I wouldn't believe it. At last I saw her. I saw her walking in the village with those hideous penguins and that chalky face and eyes like a cobra's eyes. But I couldn't give him up. I sent for him. You read the letter. I would always been so careful about writing before. But this time I didn't care. I hadn't seen him for 10 days. He came and I told him I knew about his marriage. Oh, at first he denied that. I was frantic. I don't know what I said to him. I hated him because he'd made me despise myself. I insulted him. I cursed him. At last he turned on me. He told me he was sick and tired of me. That it was true about the other woman. That she was the only one who really meant anything to him. He said he was glad I knew, because now I'd leave him alone. I knew if he went out that door, I'd never see him again. I seized the revolver and fired. He gave a cry, and I thought I'd hit him. I ran after him and I fired and fired and fired until there were no more cartridges. That's what happened. And I have no excuse for myself. I don't deserve to.

[Robert Crosby]

Lynn. How could you do this to me? Leslie, how could you? I'm sorry.

[Howard Joyce]

I shouldn't have let myself go. I've got to think.

[Attorney]

Leslie. Well, he's going to forgive you.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, he's going to forgive me. And the fifth couple are the Prescott. Oh, yes. Robert's told me about them. You'll adore them, Leslie. Now, both of you, get a good sleep because it'll be a late party. Good night. Good night, Darcy.

[Howard Joyce]

Good night,

[Leslie Crosby]

Robert. It's lucky you brought your dinner coat. You'd hardly fit in one of Howard's. Now, let's see what else you need. Oh, how about your studs? They're probably still in the bureau at home.

[Attorney]

Home.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Robert.

[Leslie Crosby]

It's no use, is it? We can't make it go, can we?

[Robert Crosby]

I don't know. Not sure.

[Leslie Crosby]

Robert, you're so kind and so generous. You should have had the sort of wife you really deserve. Through no fault of yours, I've failed you, wrecked your life. I can't ask you to forgive me.

[Howard Joyce]

If you love a person, you can forgive anything. But what about you? Can you go on?

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, I'll try. I'll really try.

[Robert Crosby]

That's not what I was asking.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'll do everything to make you happy. Everything in my power.

[Howard Joyce]

That isn't enough. Unless. Leslie, now, this minute. Do you love me?

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, I do.

[Robert Crosby]

Kiss me, then. Kiss me as if.

[Leslie Crosby]

Robert. No. No, I can't. I can't. I can't.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Leslie, tell me.

[Howard Joyce]

Leslie, what is it?

[Leslie Crosby]

With all my heart. I still love the man I killed. Leslie. Leslie, let me in. My dear. They're all waiting for you. This is your party, you know. I'm sorry, Darth. I took rather long to dress. Leslie, isn't that your lace? Yes. Were you working on it just now? A little. I'm anxious to finish it. Leslie, please come downstairs. Of course, dear. In a few minutes. Very well.

[Attorney]

When did you first start doing that lace work, Leslie?

[Leslie Crosby]

I find it soothing.

[Robert Crosby]

You mean it takes your mind off other things?

[Leslie Crosby]

I couldn't give him up. I sent for him. At last he turned on me. He was sick and tired of me. She was the only one who meant anything to him. She was the only one. I hardly know what happened. I seized the revolver and fired. Fired and fired and fired until there were no more cartridges. I have no excuse for myself. I don't deserve to live. I don't deserve to. Who's out there? Who is it? You. I see you there.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Mr. Crosby.

[Leslie Crosby]

Come here. What are you doing out there?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

I don't want to come. She making me come. She tell me I come here.

[Leslie Crosby]

She Mrs. Hammond.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Missy Hammond. She tell me I come here. Bling dagger leave it outside window.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Dagger. Missy, she say bling dagger to you.

[Leslie Crosby]

She's here.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Then Ms. Hammond on path by gate. You no go in garden. Ms. Crosby, she. She kill you. She wait there. That is what dagger mean. She kill you. You go in guard.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Houseboy/Assistant]

Missy, you know Telepolis. I come. You know Telepolis. I come. You know Telepolis. I come.

[Leslie Crosby]

Dagger. See the workmanship on the ivory handle? Imagine all that on a knife.

[Ong (Confidential Clerk)]

He who kills with an unworthy tool commits two crimes, one against himself.

[Leslie Crosby]

I don't deserve to live. I don't deserve to live. I don't deserve to live.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Leslie.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Leslie.

[Robert Crosby]

Leslie.

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes?

[Robert Crosby]

You've got to do something about Bob. He's behaving very strange.

[Leslie Crosby]

What is it?

[Attorney]

I don't know.

[Robert Crosby]

First I thought he was drunk, but it's worse than that.

[Leslie Crosby]

I'll be right down.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

But where will you ship from, Crosby?

[Howard Joyce]

Oh, it's near a good harbor, only five, six miles away. And I can ship my rubber for less money.

[Robert Crosby]

I want to get ahead fast.

[Howard Joyce]

In 10, 15 years, I can live in London, travel.

[Robert Crosby]

Do anything I please.

[Leslie Crosby]

Robert, will you come outside with me, darling, please?

[Howard Joyce]

Not now, darling. Maybe later. I'm telling the boys about my new plantation.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Sounds like quite a place.

[Howard Joyce]

Of course we'll miss Singapore. Our friends are here. We've had some mighty fine times. No English people in that part of Sumatra. Only Dutch and natives. Going to be a little lonely. At first, maybe. But we'll get used to it. There'll be just the two of us. But my wife's a good sport. Always can count on her. She's not afraid of anything. And we'll have each other. That's the important thing.

[Leslie Crosby]

Stop it. Stop. Stop it. I can't stand anymore. I can't stand it.

[Robert Crosby]

Give me a drink.

[Howard Joyce]

I want a drink.

[Robert Crosby]

What's the matter with

[Leslie Crosby]

Howard? Where is Leslie?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Where did she go?

[Attorney]

She ran out into the garden.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

The garden?

[Leslie Crosby]

I'll find her.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

No.

[Attorney]

Let her alone. There's nothing you can do for her.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

You no go in garden. She kill you. You no go in garden. Missy.

[Leslie Crosby]

See the workmanship on the. I have to handle.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

She kill you.

[Leslie Crosby]

I couldn't give him up. I sent for him.

[Howard Joyce]

Robert will be away. I absolutely must see you.

[Leslie Crosby]

I couldn't give him up.

[Howard Joyce]

What does this mean?

[Leslie Crosby]

It means that I was in love with Jeff Henna.

[Robert Crosby]

That's not true.

[Leslie Crosby]

It means I was in love with Jeff Hennis.

[Attorney]

No.

[Leslie Crosby]

We've been in love for years. We've been in love for years. For years. We've been enough for years.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Ms. Crosby. Go back. Go back. Oh, you kill her. You kill her. I say move. Police. Police. Don't move. I will shoot. What? What you do here? I do nothing. I tell her not go into garden.

[Robert Crosby]

I tell her this woman, she. She is dead.

[Leslie Crosby]

What does occur?

[Houseboy/Assistant]

She say she kill her. It was right. She died. Leslie. Leslie.

[Howard Joyce]

Leslie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We bring to a close tonight's performance of the Letter. In a moment, our stars return for their curtain calls. But while we're waiting, listen to this. Hear that clock? Morning, noon and night, three times a day, seven days a week. The dishes have to be washed. You can't get around it, but you can make it pleasanter the way thousands of women have. That's with New Quick Luxe Flakes. It helps do away with one of the things women hate most about dishwashing. The red, rough housework look it gives your hands. Yes, New Quick Luxe is kind to hands. This was recently proved by hundreds of dramatic one hand tests made in a laboratory under conditions similar to home dishwashing. Five different soaps frequently used for dishwashing, including Lux, were tested three times a day for weeks. Hundreds of women dipped one hand in luxe suds, the other in suds from another soap. The results were amazing. The Lux hands look so much softer and smoother than the other hands. Now, you know that lovely hands are such an important part of a woman's charm. You want yours to stay soft and smooth, of course. So why not try new quick Lux flakes in your dishpan tomorrow? Will you do that? It's in the same familiar box and it costs you no more. It's fast, thrifty and so kind to your hands. Here's Mr. DeMille with our stars.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Back for a curtain call come the stars of the Letter. Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall and James Stevenson.

[Leslie Crosby]

Mr. DeMille, I know Herbert Marshall and James Stevenson. Join me in thanking every member of the fine cast which appeared with us tonight.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

And so do we. Tell me, how was your vacation, Betty?

[Leslie Crosby]

Oh, I always have a wonderful time in New Hampshire.

[Howard Joyce]

We've been reading about the big celebration they had of the premiere of your new picture, the Great Life, Littleton.

[Attorney]

Your birthday too, wasn't it, Betty?

[Leslie Crosby]

Yes, Jimmy. We were trying to raise some money for local charity and Warner Brothers very kindly came through the premier of the Great Lie to help us raise the money.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

After that birthday party, Hollywood must seem like a ghost town.

[Leslie Crosby]

Well, it seems restful for the first time. I've enjoyed very much coming back to the Lux radio theater tonight, Mr. DeMille. And I'd like to know what you plan for next week.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

Next week's play, Betty, is the delightful comedy, wife, husband and friend.

[Attorney]

And who's in the cast, Mr. DeMille?

[Cecil B. DeMille]

We're going to have George Brent, Priscilla Lane and Gail Patrick. You'll hear George Brent as a perfectly normal businessman whose wife, played by Priscilla Lane, is ambitious to become an opera singer. The solution to this domestic problem comes in a surprise twist that made the 20th Century Fox picture a hit on the screen and gives us a gay and exciting prospect for next Monday night.

[Howard Joyce]

That's a show I certainly don't want to miss. CB Good night.

[Leslie Crosby]

Good night.

[Attorney]

Good night.

[Cecil B. DeMille]

You've written your names in red letters here tonight. Ladies and gentlemen, we have just learned that the Lux Radio Theater has again been selected by the readers of the Movie Radio Guide magazine as the best dramatic program on the air. It's the third consecutive year that this theater has received the Movie Radio Guide Award. And to all who participated in the poll, we express the gratitude of our sponsors and of the entire staff of this theater. Our sponsors, the makers of Lux Flakes, join me in inviting you to be with us again next Monday night when the Lux Radio Theatre presents George Brent, Priscilla Lane and Gail Patrick in Wife, Husband and Friend. This is Cecil B. DeMille saying good night to you from Hollywood.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Herbert Marshall will soon be seen in the Columbia picture Adventure in Washington. James Stevenson appeared through the courtesy of Warner Brothers Studio and will soon be seen in their production of Shining Victory. Now an important announcement. As you know, many localities switch to daylight saving time next Sunday. If your community is one of those changing to daylight saving time, you will hear this program at the usual hour. If your community remains on standard time, tune in one hour earlier. Check your newspaper or radio magazine for the correct time. Included in tonight's were Richard Davis as Withers, Charlie Lung as head boy, Gloria Holden as the woman and Suzanne Karen, Wally Mayer, Eleanor Stewart, Eric Snowden and Lela Hyams McIntyre. Our music is directed by Louis Silvers. Our Lux Radio Theatre production of the Letter has come to you with the good wishes of the makers of new Quick Lux Blake, the tissue thin soap flakes used by smart housewives everywhere and by the great picture studios here in Hollywood to protect the million dollar wardrobes that you see on the screen. Your announcer has been Melville Roy and this is the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Houseboy/Assistant]

Foreign.

[Leslie Crosby]

Shop.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The Sherwin Williams Fourth of July sale. And get 30% off paints and stains. June 26th through July 6th. Whether you're refreshing your interior or exterior, we've got the colors to bring your vision to life.

[Robert Crosby]

Life.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And with delivery, getting everything to your door is easier than ever. Shop online to have it delivered or visit your neighborhood Sherwin Williams store. Click the banner to learn more. Retail sales only some exclusions apply. See store for details. Delivery available on qualifying orders.