A Case for Dr Morelle 57-04-30 (02) Confession of Guilt

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Harold’s Old Time Radio

Episode: A Case for Dr Morelle – "Confession of Guilt" (Original Airdate: 1957-04-30)
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Released: December 27, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode features a classic mystery radio drama from the golden age of radio, “A Case for Dr Morelle: Confession of Guilt.” It tells the story of Dr. Morelle, a keenly observant psychiatrist, as he investigates the suspicious death of Max Powers, a successful fashion house owner, who appears to have committed suicide. Through a tangle of confessions, false leads, and psychological tension, Dr. Morelle unravels the truth behind Powers’ demise, revealing a perfect blend of psychological insight, suspense, and clever deduction.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. The Aftermath of Max Powers’ Death

• Setting: The episode opens with the news that Max Powers was found dead in his office with a gunshot wound to the heart and a typewritten suicide note to his wife.
• Suspicion: Inspector Hood highlights the unusual nature of the suicide (shot through the heart instead of the head) and discusses possibilities with Dr. Morelle.
• Quote (Inspector Hood, 03:27):

  “How many cases can you recall, Dr. Morelle, where the suicide shoots himself through the heart? It's always the head, in my experience.”

2. Paula Webb’s Troubled Confession

• Paula’s Despair: Paula Webb tries to contact Dr. Morelle, eventually visiting his office, consumed with guilt and desperation.
• Her Story: Paula confesses she went to Powers’ office after discovering he had been deceiving her, intending to confront him. In the retelling, she claims to have shot him in a panic.
• Emotional Turmoil:
• Quote (Paula Webb, 10:06):

  “All I wanted to do was get away. From that. I don’t remember getting out. When the morning came, I meant to give myself up to the police.”

3. The Suicide Note and Inquest

• Inquest Proceedings: An inquest is held with Inspector Hood and Dr. Morelle present. The jury quickly returns a verdict of suicide.
• Breakdown of the Suicide Note: Dr. Morelle studies the note for clues.
• Key Clue: Odd spelling in the note catches Dr. Morelle’s attention.
• Quote (Dr. Morelle, on the note, 14:46):

  “I can't go on any longer. Life has become too much for me. I just can't take it anymore. There's nothing left but this way out. Goodbye, darling necklace... Odd spelling that. Did you notice where–”

4. Investigating Paula’s Story

• Skeptical Ms. Frail: Dr. Morelle’s secretary, Ms. Frail, thinks Paula fabricated her story out of unrequited love and guilt. Dr. Morelle points out inconsistencies – namely, Paula’s account is too honest and logical.
• Vital Discovery: Dr. Morelle visits Ellis Dacre, from whom Paula said she borrowed the gun. Dacre confirms lending her a revolver, but reveals a crucial twist:
• Key Discovery (Dr. Morelle, 20:54):

  “They were blanks, Miss Vale.”

• Paula’s gun was loaded with blanks – she could not have killed Powers.

5. The Real Murderer

• Renewed Police Investigation: News breaks that Scotland Yard is reopening the Powers case, now as a likely murder.
• Psychological Trap: Dr. Morelle sets a trap, using Paula’s shock and Mrs. Powers’ suspicious behavior.
• Typist’s Tell: Mrs. Powers is asked to type a sample letter. She makes the same peculiar spelling error ("goodbye" without the "e") as in the suicide note – the smoking gun.
• Quote (Dr. Morelle, 27:00):

  “Exactly, Mrs. Powers. You've always spelled ‘goodbye’ without the final ‘e’.”

6. Resolution & Reflections

• Mrs. Powers’ Motivation: Jealousy and knowledge of Paula drives Mrs. Powers to murder her husband, then fabricate the suicide note.
• Psychological Closure: Dr. Morelle explains the subtle psychological cues – Mrs. Powers’ fainting at the inquest, her acceptance of the “blackmail” call, and her compulsion to return to the scene.
• Final Words (Dr. Morelle, 28:26):

  “She had to confess, just as with any criminal. A compulsion forced Mrs. Powers to bring upon herself her own doom.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Inspector Hood on the Oddity of the Crime (03:27):

  “How many cases can you recall, Dr. Morelle, where the suicide shoots himself through the heart? It's always the head, in my experience.”

• Dr. Morelle’s Clinical but Empathetic Tone (11:10):

  “You willfully murdered him. And now, because of some fortuitous chance which has completely transformed the situation, you ask me to soothe your troubled mind…”

• Key Reveal on the Use of Blanks (20:54):

  “They were blanks, Miss Vale.”

• The Trap Closes – Typing the Suicide Note (26:52):

  “Goodbye, darling. And you've typed it the same way – ‘goodbye’ without the E.”

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 00:45 – Paula Webb and Ms. Frail arrive at Max Powers’ office
• 03:27 – Inspector Hood discusses the oddity of the suicide
• 08:32 – Paula Webb begins her dramatic confession
• 10:06 – Paula details her mental state after the shooting
• 14:46 – Dr. Morelle inspects the suicide note
• 20:54 – Dr. Morelle reveals Paula’s cartridges were blanks
• 26:52 – The typist’s error unmasks Mrs. Powers as the killer
• 27:44–28:43 – Dr. Morelle analyzes Mrs. Powers’ psychology and motivation

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Episode Tone & Style

The episode delivers classic radio drama richness: atmospheric noir tension, psychological suspense, and tightly woven deduction. Dialogue is sharp, brisk, and true to mid-century British radio, with Dr. Morelle’s detached, probing intellect contrasting with the emotional desperation of Paula and the callousness of Mrs. Powers.

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Summary for New Listeners

If you missed the episode, here’s the core: What appears to be a textbook suicide is revealed, thanks to Dr. Morelle’s insight and attention to psychological detail, to be a jealous wife’s murder disguised with a forged note. Meanwhile, the would-be confessor, Paula Webb, is exonerated, her guilt a tragic misunderstanding as her weapon was harmless. The final reveal hinges on the smallest human details—a typewriter habit and the inexorable pull of guilt—reminding listeners of the psychological subtleties that classic radio mysteries captured so well.

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

Everyone deserves to be connected. That's why T Mobile and US Cellular are joining forces. Switch to T Mobile and save up to 20% versus Verizon by getting built in benefits they leave out. Check the math@t mobile.com switch. And now T mobile is in US cellular stores. Savings versus comparable Verizon plans plus the cost of optional benefits. Plan features and taxes and fees vary. Savings with three plus lines include third line free via monthly bill credits. Credit stop if you cancel any lines. Qualifying credit required.

[Paula Webb]

Down this side street. Up these steps.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Here's the door.

[Paula Webb]

Now the key.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Dark enough? Along here is in his office.

[Paula Webb]

There's a light under the door.

[Inspector Hood]

Who is it? Who is it? Why, Paula.

[Paula Webb]

Yes, Max? Paula, Remember?

[Inspector Hood]

Why, this is nice.

[Paula Webb]

You didn't expect. You didn't expect to see me back, did you? So soon?

[Inspector Hood]

Well, it's after office hours.

[Paula Webb]

That's right, Max. No one around.

[Inspector Hood]

What's on your mind?

[Paula Webb]

Do I have to draw a map?

[Dr. Morell]

What? This?

[Paula Webb]

Don't move.

[Ellis Dacre]

Where.

[Paula Webb]

Where did you get that? Stay right where you are. Max.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

You wouldn't.

[Paula Webb]

You. You wouldn't shoot.

[Inspector Hood]

Listen, I'm sorry over the way things turned out.

[Paula Webb]

It's been tough. And now it's going to be tough for you. Paula.

[Dr. Morell]

You wouldn't.

[Paula Webb]

Don't stop.

[Inspector Hood]

The BBC presents a case for Dr. Morell. Another adventure by ernest dudley. With cecil parker is the famous Dr. Morell and sheila sim as his secretary, Ms. Fred. Confession of guilt.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I thought it was a lovely evening, Dr. Morrell. I have enjoyed it.

[Dr. Morell]

So glad, Ms. Bail.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

And your speech was absolutely fascinating. What a shame Inspector Hood was called away.

[Dr. Morell]

In the middle of it I noticed the waiter speak to him and he left the table.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

He didn't come back either.

[Dr. Morell]

Some urgent matter has arisen, no doubt.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, he'd have been thrilled to hear all you said.

[Dr. Morell]

Everyone else was except the old Die Hards who didn't know what I was talking about.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Yes, Dr. Morrell. Oh, look, A police car.

[Dr. Morell]

I had already noticed it outside this office.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Well, I wonder. Well, I know the driver. He drives Inspector hood.

[Inspector Hood]

Good evening, Miss Frail. Good evening, Dr. Morrell.

[Paula Webb]

Hello.

[Dr. Morell]

Good evening.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Is something going on?

[Inspector Hood]

Nothing very special. Suicide.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, dear.

[Inspector Hood]

You come from the big do that.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Inspector Hood was at the legal and medical dinner.

[Inspector Hood]

He got called away to do this little job.

[Dr. Morell]

I see.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, here comes Inspector hood now.

[Inspector Hood]

Hello, Ms. Crail. Sorry to have to leave in the middle of your speech, Dr. Morel.

[Dr. Morell]

I am gratified to learn it was business and not boredom that was responsible.

[Inspector Hood]

They knew at the hour I Was near here. Makes you think. How many cases can you recall, Dr. Morrell, where the suicide shoots himself through the heart? It's always the head, in my experience.

[Dr. Morell]

I'm inclined to agree with you.

[Inspector Hood]

This chap had sat at his desk, typed out a note to his wife and then pull a bullet through his heart.

[Dr. Morell]

I do recall a case on the continent where a man shot himself in that manner.

[Inspector Hood]

Yes, that may explain it. He lived abroad, I believe. Yes, thanks for the tip at all. I'll read your speech in full in the papers tomorrow. Hi, Sarge. Good morning, Inspector. I just come from Mrs. Power's flat. Did you get much? She's still overcome with shock. And the rest of it? Yes, Natural. She could offer no reason why her husband had committed suicide. No business, Wallace. No. She made it obvious he was loaded. You should see her flat. Nothing else? Her doctor was there. He was Max Power's doctor too. So I asked him if he had any ideas. All he knew was that he had a bit of a weak heart. Nothing else he could think of. They sometimes do it for no good reason. This must be one of them. I. I suppose. What is it, Inspector? Nothing really. It's only that's shooting himself through the heart. Still, he could have picked up the ideas of living in France or something. Could be that was what Dr. Morrell seemed to think.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

This is Dr. Morell's house. Good morning.

[Paula Webb]

You don't know me, but that is good. Dr. Morel see me.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I'm afraid the doctor's very busy.

[Paula Webb]

I'm sure, but. But if only you would see.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Well, if you'll hold on, I'll speak to him. What name shall I give?

[Paula Webb]

Paula Webb. Ms. Paula Webb.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Well, just a moment, miss. Whereby? I'll ask Dr. Mirrel.

[Paula Webb]

I'm desperate.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

It's a matter of life and death. If you'll hold on, please. Someone wants an appointment, Doctor. A Ms. Paula Webb.

[Dr. Morell]

The name is unfamiliar.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

You don't know her, but she sounds in a bit of a state. You've got half an hour free this afternoon. Oh, very well, I'll tell her. Ms. Webb, Dr. Morrell can see you this afternoon at.

[Paula Webb]

Hello?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Are you there, Miss Webb? Well, I'm blessed she's gone. Miss Webb. Ah, she's hung up. What an extraordinary way to behave. Don't you think so, Doctor?

[Dr. Morell]

What is extraordinary, Ms. Frale, is that you should be surprised if you could manage to concentrate your attention on these notes. Mine? I should be obliged.

[Paula Webb]

Why didn't I have the courage? Why did I ring off like that? Perhaps it Never happened. It was only some dreadful nightmare.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

The police couldn't have made a mistake like that. That's what it says in the papers.

[Paula Webb]

Max Powers was found dead in his Park Lane last night. An automatic pistol was found by his side. Mr. Powers had left a letter addressed to his wife. Max Powers built up the Mayfair fashion house with which his name was associated until it rivaled the most of it. They.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

There it is.

[Paula Webb]

If only I could believe it. But I can't. I must tell someone or I shall go crazy. I can't phone Dr. Morel again. I can't. But I got to see him. I've got to get this off my mind.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Good afternoon.

[Paula Webb]

I'm. I'm Paula Webb.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Paula Webb? Why, it was you who phoned this morning.

[Paula Webb]

Yes.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Can I see him, Dr. Morell?

[Paula Webb]

Now, please make him I.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Make him?

[Paula Webb]

You don't know Dr. Morrell. If I'd phoned, I should have rung off again.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Perhaps you better come in.

[Paula Webb]

Thank you.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Ms. Webb.

[Paula Webb]

Yes.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

You will stay there. I. I'm after that phone business. I. I don't want to tell Dr. Morrell you're here, and then I won't.

[Paula Webb]

Run away, I promise.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

That's all right then, dear. I know he'll bite my head off.

[Dr. Morell]

Since a clear understanding of the results of the lie detector technique depends upon a recognition of the various blood pressure and respiration changes recorded by the instrument.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Dr. Morell, I'm so sorry to interrupt you.

[Dr. Morell]

What is it?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

It's Ms. Webb.

[Dr. Morell]

While the lie detector records certain bodily changes which may or may not be, whom did you see Ms. Rey?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Ms. Paula Webb.

[Dr. Morell]

Has she an appointment?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Well, not exactly.

[Dr. Morell]

Neither she has or she hasn't.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

She phoned about it this morning, but she didn't wait and she rang off again.

[Dr. Morell]

Very well. I will allow myself to be persuaded by you.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

You'll see her. Oh, thank you. I'll go and tell her. She'll be so good.

[Dr. Morell]

Just relax. Relax.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Yes, Doctor.

[Dr. Morell]

And tell me quite quietly from the beginning.

[Paula Webb]

I went to work for Max Powers two years ago. I didn't realize that he had a wife. When I did find out, he told me he would soon be free and he could marry me. Then about a week ago, I discovered there was someone else. I can't tell you what it did to me.

[Dr. Morell]

On the contrary, Ms. Webb. You are telling me. Proceed.

[Paula Webb]

Last night. Last night I made up my mind. He often work late at Park Lane and I had a key to the back way in. I went there at the time. I knew he'd be alone. His office was big and luxurious, where he entertained buyers, business people. It was next to his secretary's office. There was a light showing under his door.

[Inspector Hood]

Who is it? Who is it? Why, Paula.

[Paula Webb]

Yes, Max? Paula, Remember?

[Inspector Hood]

Why, this is nice.

[Paula Webb]

You didn't expect to see me back, did you? So soon.

[Inspector Hood]

Well, it's after office hours.

[Paula Webb]

That's right, Max. No one around.

[Inspector Hood]

What's on your mind?

[Paula Webb]

Do I have to draw a map?

[Dr. Morell]

What the.

[Paula Webb]

Don't move. Where did you get that? Stay right where you are. Max, you wouldn't.

[Dr. Morell]

You wouldn't shoot.

[Inspector Hood]

Listen, I'm sorry over the way things turned out. It's been tough for you.

[Paula Webb]

And now it's going to be tough for you.

[Dr. Morell]

Paula, you wouldn't.

[Paula Webb]

As he started to move towards me, he fell forward on his knees. He was staring at me as if he couldn't believe what had happened.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Suddenly, I panicked.

[Paula Webb]

All I wanted to do was get away from. From that I don't remember getting. And when the morning came, I meant to give myself up to the police.

[Dr. Morell]

But you've changed your mind. Ms. Web, when.

[Paula Webb]

When I read this morning's papers, it said he'd been found shot and that he'd written a letter to his wife. It was there in the newspaper.

[Dr. Morell]

I happen to have read the account and.

[Paula Webb]

Don't you see?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I shot him.

[Paula Webb]

Yes, but he was going to kill himself anyway.

[Dr. Morell]

You mean that you merely performed a task he was about to perform for himself.

[Paula Webb]

And it does make it dis. I killed him. But he deserved to die. He planned to die. Surely, if I can escape the penalty for what I've done, I'm entitled to.

[Dr. Morell]

Well, as for that, I can't advise you. I am a psychiatrist, not a lawyer. Nor am I a judge.

[Paula Webb]

Please help me. What can I do?

[Dr. Morell]

Or is it none of these things that you require?

[Paula Webb]

What do you mean?

[Dr. Morell]

Have you come to me because you think I will set your conscience at rest? Because you want me to tell you that it's practically all right for you to keep silent? You have confessed that you've taken another human being's life. You admit that you've killed a man whom you once loved and you believed loved you.

[Paula Webb]

Dr. Morel, please.

[Dr. Morell]

You willfully murdered him. And now, because of some fortuitous chance which has completely transformed the situation, you ask me to soothe your troubled mind, smooth away your fears, so that you can go on living as if nothing has ever happened. Supposing I said that you must go to the police and tell them what you've told me. What then, Ms. Webb?

[Paula Webb]

I don't know. You don't understand. He drove me to it.

[Dr. Morell]

After you shot him and he fell to the floor. Did you touch the body?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

No, I couldn't have touched him.

[Dr. Morell]

As a matter of interest, Webb, how did the gun come into your possession?

[Paula Webb]

I. I borrowed it.

[Dr. Morell]

From whom?

[Paula Webb]

From a man. He's in the fashion business. I met him through Max.

[Dr. Morell]

What's his name and address?

[Paula Webb]

I. His name's Dacre. Ellis Dacre. His address is 16 Stone Place, off Sloane Street.

[Dr. Morell]

I see.

[Paula Webb]

But why are you asking me all this if you're not going to help me?

[Dr. Morell]

It occurs to me that this matter requires proving a little more deeply.

[Paula Webb]

You mean Dr. Morel, I. I don't have to go to the police.

[Dr. Morell]

I mean Ms. Webb, that this seems to be a case for me. After all.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Everyone deserves to be connected. That's why T Mobile and US Cellular are joining forces. Switch to T Mobile and save up to 20% versus Verizon by getting built in benefits they leave out. Check the math@t mobile.com switch and now T Mobile is in US cellular stores. Savings versus Comparable Verizon plans plus the cost of optional benefits plan features and taxes and fees vary. So savings with three plus lines include third line free via monthly bill credits credit stop if you cancel any lines. Qualifying credit required. And Doug, here we have the Limu Imu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual.

[Inspector Hood]

Fascinating.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug Limu.

[Dr. Morell]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us? Cut the camera.

[Narrator/Announcer]

They see us. Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty Liberty.

[Dr. Morell]

Liberty.

[Inspector Hood]

Liberty Savings.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Very unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company affiliates Excludes Massachusetts.

[Inspector Hood]

As I said when this inquest opened. Members of the jury, you are here to inquire into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Max Powers. All the relevant witnesses have been called. You have heard all the evidence. And now it is your duty to give your verdict. As representatives of the public. You've listened carefully, I'm sure. And it is quite plain how this unfortunate man met his death. Was he so tormented by some secret fear or anxiety which rendered him emotionally unstable at the time that he decided to take his own life? That is what you have to decide. Now will you please retire and consider your verdict? What do you think of it, Dr. Morrell?

[Dr. Morell]

I imagine they won't belong reaching their verdict.

[Inspector Hood]

A pretty clear cut really.

[Dr. Morell]

I thought you presented the facts as you saw them. Plainly enough. Thanks, Doctor.

[Inspector Hood]

Poor Mrs. Powers has stood up the ordeal.

[Dr. Morell]

Well, you mentioned that she'd been his secretary before she married Powers.

[Inspector Hood]

Yes, that was about seven years ago, I believe.

[Dr. Morell]

I wonder if I might glance at the letter he wrote to her.

[Inspector Hood]

Yes, there it is.

[Dr. Morell]

Thank you.

[Inspector Hood]

He left it there in the machine after he typed it.

[Dr. Morell]

Yeah. I can't go on any longer. Life has become too much for me. I just can't take it anymore. There's nothing left but this way out. Goodbye, darling necklace.

[Inspector Hood]

Some secret worry or something got him down.

[Dr. Morell]

So it would appear. Odd spelling that. Did you notice where.

[Inspector Hood]

Oh, that word. He must have forgotten to add the E. Yes, you were right, Dr. Morrell. The jury haven't taken long.

[Dr. Morell]

Mrs. Powers has gone very pale.

[Inspector Hood]

Members of the jury, have you considered your verdict? Yes, sir.

[Dr. Morell]

We appreciate find that Max Powers killed himself while the balance of his mind was disturbed. Mrs. Powers, are you all right? Let me help you.

[Inspector Hood]

She's fainted.

[Dr. Morell]

Dr. Morel.

[Inspector Hood]

Yes, it's been pretty grim for a poor thing.

[Dr. Morell]

Open that window, will you? Get some air to her.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Hello? This is Dr. Morel's house. No, he's not. Yes, he's gone to the inquest. All right. Dr. Morel, you're back.

[Dr. Morell]

Observant of you.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Those newspaper reporters have never stopped phoning. Was the verdict suicide?

[Dr. Morell]

That foregone conclusion? The coroner not being in possession of certain facts known to us?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I've had an idea.

[Dr. Morell]

Some coffee, Ms. Frail, don't you think?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I'll get some. But. But first I must tell you, Ms.

[Dr. Morell]

Frale, no doubt your theory is most absorbing, but.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Well, of course, if you'd rather not know the answer. I don't want to it put force it on you. I. I mean, just plod on in your own way.

[Dr. Morell]

Thank you. I want to make a few notes and then perhaps I could have some coffee.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

All right. I'm ready to take notes.

[Dr. Morell]

At the inquest this morning, Inspector Hood reaffirmed what he'd mentioned to us in Park Lane the night before last. Making crystal clear what I'd already surmised. Which was that Max Powers was found not in his own office, but in his secretary's adjoining.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Obviously.

[Dr. Morell]

And on the face of it, that he had taken his own life. Yes, but I am gratified that you agree with me. But against this apparently indisputable evidence we have Ms. Webb's revelation.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

But it's so perfectly simple. She made the whole thing up. She's madly infatuated with him. She got this guilt complex because of the wife.

[Dr. Morell]

This is fascinating. You appear to have overlooked the fact that Ms. Webb's action was premeditated. She borrowed a gun for the purpose.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, I hadn't thought of that.

[Dr. Morell]

Every word of her account rings true. That is where its significance lies. She described how she shot Powers in his office. He fell to the floor and yet he was discovered at the desk in his secretary's office next door.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

It's Dr. Morell who moved the body and why? I just thought of something. She did fire at him, as she said, but she missed.

[Dr. Morell]

I had considered that possibility and rejected it.

[Paula Webb]

Oh.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, dear.

[Dr. Morell]

There would have been visible damage caused by the bullet. The police found only one bullet in the deceased.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I just don't understand it.

[Dr. Morell]

Which reminds me, since I'm not going to get that coffee. Oh, Doctor, it's too late now. There's something more pressing. Yes, I think perhaps you'd better accompany me.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Where are we going?

[Dr. Morell]

To 16 Sloane Place.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

That's where Ellis Dacre lives. The man who lent her the gun.

[Dr. Morell]

Precisely. My dear Ms. Prale.

[Ellis Dacre]

How dumb of me not to recognize you at once. Dr. Morrell. I've heard and read a lot about you.

[Dr. Morell]

This is Ms. Frail, my secretary.

[Paula Webb]

How do you do?

[Ellis Dacre]

Delighted to meet you, Ms. Frale.

[Dr. Morell]

What a charming photograph you have there.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Why, it's her.

[Ellis Dacre]

Paula Webb. You know her?

[Dr. Morell]

We have met.

[Ellis Dacre]

I see. Is it on account of her that you're here?

[Dr. Morell]

You're quite the mind reader, Mr. Baker.

[Ellis Dacre]

What is this about Paula?

[Dr. Morell]

I understand you lent her a revolver.

[Ellis Dacre]

So that's it. You're not telling me she's made a fool of herself with it.

[Dr. Morell]

Didn't you think it was risky to lend Ms. Webb a loaded revolver?

[Ellis Dacre]

Do you think so? She asked me, so I lent her one at Smith and Weston Centennial. It fires a.38 caliber cartridge, if that's what you've come to ask. There it is. And see these cartridges, These are what.

[Dr. Morell]

You gave her to use?

[Ellis Dacre]

That's right.

[Dr. Morell]

I see. Most illuminating.

[Ellis Dacre]

I let her have three rounds. She admitted she didn't know a great deal about handling a revolver, but I imagined it would give her confidence.

[Dr. Morell]

Most thoughtful of you. You were acquainted with Max Powers, were you not?

[Ellis Dacre]

Paula has been talking to you? Yes, I knew him and his wife. Why?

[Dr. Morell]

As you say, Ms. Webb has been talking.

[Ellis Dacre]

Is she trying to say it wasn't suicide? That someone bumped him off?

[Dr. Morell]

What makes you think that idea might have occurred to her?

[Ellis Dacre]

Listen, Dr. Morel, you didn't call here just to chat about Paula Webb or my collection of pistols. Max Powers was a first rate heel. And if someone's murdered him and got away with it. Good luck to them. I wish I could have done it. Anything else I can tell you before. Before you go?

[Dr. Morell]

You've been most informative.

[Ellis Dacre]

Only too glad. Goodbye, Ms. Frale.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Goodbye, Mr. Davis.

[Ellis Dacre]

Goodbye, Dr. Morel. Or should we say au revoir?

[Dr. Morell]

That rather depends upon events, so we'll.

[Ellis Dacre]

Just make it so long, eh?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

You didn't breathe a word to him, Dr. Morel. How she could think she'd shot him, and all the time she hadn't.

[Dr. Morell]

It was that somewhat mystifying feature which prompted the visit to Dicker.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Who told you? Nothing, except that he had lent us a gun and that he took a dim view of Max Powers.

[Dr. Morell]

It was not so much what he said, but what I saw.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I didn't see anything. It was a beautiful flat. Well, there was her photo and all those guns.

[Dr. Morell]

He confirmed it was the firearm which she described.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Which you never told him she'd lost. Anyway, he's got plenty more.

[Dr. Morell]

What interested me were the cartridges which he'd given her.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Well, I didn't bother to look at those.

[Dr. Morell]

Had you done so, even you might have noticed one stimulating fact about them.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

All right, Dr. Morel, what was it?

[Dr. Morell]

They were blanks, Miss Vale.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, Miss Webb, you've got to see him.

[Paula Webb]

But.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, Miss Webb, come back. Oh, Dr. Morell will be annoyed.

[Paula Webb]

Here in the early evening paper, the stop press look. 4pm news. New turn in Park Lane. Death understood. Scotland Yard not satisfied with results of earlier inquiries into death of Max Powers of Mayfair Fashion House, found shot in his office three nights ago. As a result of information received, renewed investigations being made into circumstances of the tragedy. Police have found out that he was murdered after all.

[Dr. Morell]

I'm glad you called, Webb. There are one or two matters I think you might care to know about.

[Paula Webb]

What have you done?

[Dr. Morell]

Well, if your anxiety is on account of that newspaper report, you may relax.

[Paula Webb]

But the only person who could have made them change their mind is you. I came to see you for help and all you've done.

[Dr. Morell]

Let me assure you that your own situation is in no way jeopardized.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, Dr. Morell. I'm sorry, Ms. Frale.

[Dr. Morell]

What was it I was to explain to Miss Webb?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, you mean about. About.

[Dr. Morell]

You couldn't be more explicit. What Ms. Frail means is that it was impossible for you to have killed Max Powers.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

But I shot him. No, no, Dr. Morrell's right. Mr. Dacre only gave you blank cartridges.

[Paula Webb]

Blank cartridges?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

He thought you might get into trouble. So when you fired them, they were only blank.

[Dr. Morell]

But he.

[Paula Webb]

I saw him fall?

[Dr. Morell]

He merely fainted from shock. When he recovered consciousness, someone else took a hand.

[Paula Webb]

Someone else killed him.

[Dr. Morell]

That is the most logical explanation. Now, Miss Frail, take me Web into the other room. I have some phone calls to make.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Yes, Dr. Morel.

[Paula Webb]

Come.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Come along. I'll make you a cup of tea.

[Dr. Morell]

Oh, Miss Frail.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Yes, Doctor?

[Dr. Morell]

You may care to accompany me on a visit. I shall be paying tonight.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, yes. Come along, Miss Webb. You've been under a great stress.

[Paula Webb]

But it's all over.

[Dr. Morell]

Now. First Inspector Hood and then. Taxi. Where to?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Archway House. Park Lane, please.

[Dr. Morell]

Thank you, Ms. Ra.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I don't think anything will go wrong.

[Dr. Morell]

I fail to see why. The trap has been carefully baited and.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

They'Ll walk right into it.

[Dr. Morell]

It's a matter of process, of elimination. The motive fits and the opportunity above all else. Who would have thought of typing that? Well, that anyway.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

We shall know for certain in a little while. This corner, please, driver.

[Inspector Hood]

Thank you, sir.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

These are the steps to the back way in.

[Paula Webb]

You got the key?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

It's very dark.

[Dr. Morell]

Would you prepare it if I left you here?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, no, no, no. I'll come with you.

[Dr. Morell]

Am flattered by your trust in me.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

The office will be this way. Oh, it's awfully eerie. This is the door. I suppose we can't switch on the light.

[Dr. Morell]

You suppose right.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

What do we do now?

[Ellis Dacre]

Wait.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I didn't know it was going to be quite like this.

[Ellis Dacre]

Quiet.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

What is it? What steps? Oh, it's you, Inspector Hood.

[Ellis Dacre]

Hello.

[Dr. Morell]

So you got here before me. You know exactly how events will proceed.

[Ellis Dacre]

Yes, thanks to you.

[Dr. Morell]

Better put out that light again.

[Ellis Dacre]

Right.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

You never mentioned him. Dr. Morel.

[Dr. Morell]

He's part of the trap.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Listen. It must be them this time.

[Paula Webb]

Is anyone there?

[Dr. Morell]

All right, hood.

[Inspector Hood]

Good evening, Mrs. Bowers.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

What is this?

[Paula Webb]

I thought.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Why, you're Dr. Morel.

[Dr. Morell]

I regret having to disappoint you.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

So it was you who phoned me.

[Paula Webb]

You who pretended you thought you could blackmail me.

[Dr. Morell]

I had to get you here by a cook.

[Inspector Hood]

You've got nothing to be afraid of.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

So what have you got me here?

[Inspector Hood]

Just you type a little letter.

[Paula Webb]

What are you talking about?

[Inspector Hood]

You can type, can't you?

[Dr. Morell]

Even with your gloves on. In order not to leave any fingerprints.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I don't know what you're getting at.

[Dr. Morell]

I'll tell you what to put just a very brief letter. Miss Frail, put some paper in the machine.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Yes, Doctor.

[Inspector Hood]

It's up to you, Mrs.

[Ellis Dacre]

Powers.

[Inspector Hood]

If you're innocent, you've got nothing to fear.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Of course I'm innocent.

[Dr. Morell]

Max kills himself Then take a litter and.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Very well.

[Dr. Morell]

I can't go on any longer. Stop. Life has become too much for me. I guess I just can't take it anymore. Stop. There's nothing left but this way out. Stop. Goodbye, darling. Max.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

This is what he wrote.

[Dr. Morell]

Is it? Isn't it what you wrote? Good. There it is again.

[Inspector Hood]

Goodbye, darling. And you've typed it the same way. G W D by without the E.

[Paula Webb]

What do you mean? I've always.

[Dr. Morell]

Exactly, Mrs. Powers. You've always felt good without the final er.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

I like walking along Park Lane at night.

[Paula Webb]

Don't you, Doctor?

[Dr. Morell]

The fresh air is certainly welcome after.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

All that went on in that office. You mean. And you don't think Baker knew?

[Dr. Morell]

I believe he suspected. But he obviously felt that her husband deserved what he got.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Anyway, it's for Inspector Hood to sort out. You've done your part.

[Dr. Morell]

Thank you, Ms. Frail.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

All because she discovered about Paula. Where? I must say, I. I still don't know how you were so sure it was Mrs. Powell.

[Dr. Morell]

I wasn't. Although a number of facts began to emerge which pointed to her, the jealous wife. Obviously her reaction to the verdict at the inquest. Did she faint at the knowledge that she was unsuspected? Then I telephoned her, masquerading as someone who had discovered the truth and that she would have to buy my silence when she agreed to talk it over with me. I was shocked.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Her meeting you at the very place where she shot her husband.

[Dr. Morell]

Don't you understand, my dear Miss Prayer?

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Of course I do, Dr. Morrell. How do you mean?

[Dr. Morell]

She had to return to the scene of her crime like any other criminal. She found herself subconsciously impelled to give herself away.

[Ms. Frail (Secretary)]

Oh, I see.

[Dr. Morell]

She had to confess, just as with any criminal and in a compulsion forced Mrs. Powers to bring upon herself her own doom.

[Inspector Hood]

That was another adventure in the BBC series featuring Ernest Dudley's famous character, Dr. Morel and of course his secretary, Ms. Fred. The artists taking part were Dr. Morel, Cecil Parker, Ms. Frail, Sheila Sim, Inspector Hood, Philip Ray, Paula Webb, Mary Law. Other parts were played by Morris Sweden, Norman Wynn, Hugh Manning, Betty linton and Alan McTellan. This recorded program was produced by Leslie Brid.

[Dr. Morell]

Foreign.

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