A Salute To The Law (Nick Harris) 38-07-15 (x) Fatal Ace of Spades

Summary

Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: A Salute To The Law (Nick Harris) 38-07-15 (x) Fatal Ace of Spades
Release Date: June 16, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Overview

In the episode titled "Fatal Ace of Spades," hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio through a gripping dramatization narrated by Detective Nicholas B. Harris. This true-to-life story delves into the complexities of crime, revenge, and the relentless pursuit of justice in Los Angeles three decades ago. The episode meticulously unfolds the investigation of a violent shooting, highlighting the intrinsic message that "crime never fails."

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Introduction by Nick Harris

The episode opens with Nick Harris setting the stage for a compelling crime narrative:

[00:07] Nick Harris: "This is Nick Harris in a salute to the law. Crime never fails. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the message of the Nick Harris program."

Harris emphasizes the purpose of his weekly dramatizations—to demonstrate that criminal endeavors ultimately lead to downfall.

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The Crime Scene

Setting the Scene:

Nick Harris recounts a tranquil July night in Los Angeles that is abruptly shattered by a violent incident. As a cub reporter for the Daily Journal, he interacts with Desk Sergeant McClure, highlighting the mundane yet essential aspects of police work.

[00:45] Desk Sergeant McClure: "Don't you ever forget to wind that old clock."

This seemingly trivial conversation underscores the theme of time and its inevitable passage, paralleling the unfolding of justice.

The Shooting Incident:

The tranquility is disrupted when a shooting is reported at First and Spring. Detectives Max Klein and Jimmy Murphy respond swiftly, arriving at the old police headquarters to find the victim, Donald Atwood, gravely injured.

• Victim's Last Moments:

  [04:50] Donald Atwood: "Tell her I did it for her. Laura will understand..."

Atwood's dying words introduce Laura Pickens, adding a personal dimension to the crime and hinting at underlying motives rooted in familial relationships.

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Investigation Begins

Initial Investigation:

Detectives Harris and Klang commence their investigation by interviewing witnesses and piecing together the sequence of events leading to Atwood's death.

• Interview with Ramey:

  [06:30] Ramey: "Pickens did it. Pickens is at headquarters and he'll not be leaving until we've had plenty of time to question him."

This revelation points to Robert Pickens as the primary suspect, setting the detectives on a focused path to uncover the truth.

Searching for Laura Pickens:

The investigation takes a turn as Harris and Klang seek out Laura Pickens, Don Atwood's sister, believing her insights could shed light on the motive behind the shooting.

• Discovery of Laura's Residence:

  [07:50] Laura Pickens: "I can't, Don. I couldn't do it. I'm not going, and that's final."

Laura's reluctance to reconcile with her brother introduces familial strife as a potential catalyst for the crime.

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Interrogation of Laura Pickens

Unveiling Secrets:

In a pivotal scene, Laura Pickens is interrogated, revealing a complex web of relationships and deceit.

[10:41] Nick Harris: "Yes, Laura. And that's not the worst. This afternoon I followed them into a cafe in Chinatown...”

Laura discloses her tumultuous marriage to Robert Pickens, highlighting infidelity and deception.

• Laura's Confession:

  [11:00] Laura Pickens: "Oh, but you see there. Well, I've done so pretty that I wouldn't want to tell my mother. But there's one thing I won't do, Bob. Enough come between a husband and his wife."

This confession not only deepens the narrative but also aligns with the episode's theme of crime born out of personal vendettas and moral compromises.

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Confrontation with Robert Pickens

The Ace of Spades Revelation:

The investigation reaches its climax as Harris and Klang confront Robert Pickens. Through meticulous detective work, they uncover the significance of the missing ace of spades card in their card game—a pivotal piece of evidence.

[08:55] Laura Pickens: "How do you do? How do you do, Mr. Harris?"

[11:20] Laura Pickens: "Well, then, in that case, presto. Tomorrow night."

Pickens's confession is a turning point, revealing his motive driven by betrayal and the desire to eliminate those who threaten his clandestine activities.

• Pickens's Admission:

  [12:00] Robert Pickens: "All right, I did shoot Atwood. I had to insult a fence."

His admission underscores the inevitable downfall that accompanies criminal actions, reinforcing Harris's central message.

Evidence Unveiled:

The detectives present incontrovertible evidence linking Pickens to the crime, culminating in his arrest.

[13:45] Nick Harris: "An unlucky card for Mr. Robert Pickens. He paid the bitter penalty for murder."

This resolution encapsulates the triumph of law and order over criminal endeavors.

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Conclusion and Moral

Final Reflections:

Detective Nicholas B. Harris wraps up the episode with a moral takeaway, reiterating the adage that crime does not pay.

[14:30] Nick Harris: "John Atwood might be still alive today had he not tried to take the law into his own hands. As proven to you in this true life story I have entitled the Fatal Ace of Fate."

Harris emphasizes the importance of justice and the futility of seeking personal vendettas outside the legal system.

Closing Credits:

The episode concludes with acknowledgments to the cast and a teaser for the next story, "Drops of Blood," reinforcing the ongoing battle against crime.

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Key Takeaways

• The Inevitability of Justice: The narrative demonstrates that regardless of attempts to evade the law, justice prevails in the end.

• The Complexity of Human Relationships: Personal vendettas and familial conflicts are portrayed as underlying catalysts for criminal actions.

• Meticulous Detective Work: The episode showcases the importance of thorough investigation and attention to detail in solving crimes.

• Moral Lessons: Reinforcing societal values, the story serves as a cautionary tale against taking the law into one's own hands.

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Notable Quotes

• Nick Harris on Crime:

  [00:07] "Crime never fails. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the message of the Nick Harris program."

• Desk Sergeant McClure on Time:

  [00:45] "Don't you ever forget to wind that old clock."

• Laura Pickens on Deceit:

  [11:00] "Oh, but you see there. Well, I've done so pretty that I wouldn't want to tell my mother. But there's one thing I won't do, Bob. Enough come between a husband and his wife."

• Nick Harris on the Conclusion:

  [14:30] "John Atwood might be still alive today had he not tried to take the law into his own hands."

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Final Thoughts

"Fatal Ace of Spades" expertly weaves a tale of crime, investigation, and moral rectitude, staying true to the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. Through Detective Harris's narration, listeners are reminded of the timeless truth that justice, though sometimes delayed, ultimately prevails over wrongdoing.

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Transcript

[Nick Harris]

This is Nick Harris in a salute to the law. Crime never fails. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the message of the Nick Harris program. That is the purpose of these weekly true to life dramatizations. To prove that crime never fails. And now, Mr. Harris. Thank you, Mr. Tong. And good evening everyone. We have been talking a great deal on these programs about the prevention of crime. Tonight's dramatization illustrates a frequent cause of crimes of violence. A desire for revenge. The determination to take the law into one's own hands. In an attempt to write some real or fancy drawing story I'm about to relate. Took place some 30 years ago right here in Los Angeles. All was peaceful that July night in the old police headquarters at First Hill. I was a cub reporter on the daily journey. Desk Sergeant McClure was on duty only midnight sergeant lacking one minute. Don't you ever forget to wind that old clock. I'll have you know, ordering the finer time people this side of Chicago. Yes, unless you forget to wind it. That I do not, Niver. Never. That will hold you for another day. You know, Mac, someday we'll have clocks run by electricity. Electricity, huh? Sure, why not? Clocks run by electricity. And horseless carriages too. And the other ships to fly and be like. And telephones without no wires. Well, I shouldn't be surprised. You shouldn't, huh? Well, they do say nothing ever as supplies of newspaper reparten. I know one thing that would. What's that, Nicholas? A story. A real front page story. A murder. Say what a murder you'll be wanting this night. Well, it doesn't have to be a murder, Mac, but I sure wish something would happen. Things have been a bit quiet around here lately and that's a fact. Quiet? Say, compared to this place, our Quaker meeting is a madhouse. The police phone, Mac. Maybe that's something. McClure on the desk. Yeah, Murphy, they're shooting. Whereabouts? Well, who are you? The indicator shows he's calling from first and Spring. Oh, to be sure, Murphy, I'll have the wagon there directly. Hey, Klein. Yes, Max, what do you want? Get Rico and the patrol wagon down the first and swing as fast as you can. There's been a shooting scrape and Murphy wants some help. Get back. Get back. Wally. Hi, Murphy. Hi, Jimmy. This is a stretcher case. Okay, I'll bring it in. Well, come on. Where's the victim? Third floor. Back this way and up these stairs. Follow me. Hey there. Where do you think you're going? Oh, nowhere, officer. I was just coming down to see if I could be of any Help. Yeah, well, get back up them stairs and be quick about it. I said nobody was to leave the third floor till I gave you permission. All right, Officer, all right. What's your name? Pickens is my name. Robert Pickens. Stick around, Pickens, and don't try to make a getaway. Why, certainly not. I was merely going to volunteer my services. All right, stay here. Yes, sir. In here. Over this way. Get back, Hugh. Here, in this corner. On the floor. Put the stretcher alongside him. Look at that. All right. Gosh, yes. Eyes closed. White as a sheep eyes. Lost a lot of blood already. That's the boy's name, I think. Atwood, he said. Donald Atwood. All the rest of these guys here when the shooting took place? Guess so, Jimmy. But none of them will admit seeing it. Well, get Atwood to the Receiving Hospital. Take Pickens with you and hold him. I'll herd the rest of these guys over to the station later. What do you think, Doc? Well, I have to plug the bullet right now. It's going to hurt like Sam Atwood. There's no other way. All right, Doc. You have to. You have to. Hold on, Doc. Have the boy made any statement? No, but he's in no condition to make one now unless I get that bullet out right away. Internal hemorrhage. What'd you say, Doctor? Lie back, Atwood. Don't try to sit up. Lie back then. Am I going to die? Tell me. No, no. Not if you lie back and take it easy. Yes, I am. I'm going to die. I can feel it. They're getting dim. Look. My sister. Yes, what about her? Will you tell her something for me? Sure. Atwood. What is it? Tell her I did it for her. Laura will understand, but. Is she in Los Angeles? Yeah. What's her address? 2 14. 21 4A. Quick.

[Laura Pickens]

Dr. Donald Atwood.

[Nick Harris]

In there. Let me in. I've got to be down that way. Who are you and what do you want? I want to see Atwood. They said he was in here. Where is he? There. Oh, he's dead. Oh, well, excuse me, will you? You see, I. Well, goodbye. Well, then, who might he be? I don't know, but I'm going to follow him and find out. I'll go with you. Nick. Look, Klein, over there. Isn't that the cab we were chasing? Let me see. Looks like it. Let's go over and question the driver. All right. Klein. Hey, Tabby. Pleasure Fair. He's in that house telling me to wait. Who is he? I don't know. A guy by the name of Ramey. Come on, Harris. Who is it? Police. Open up. What do you want? I'm just leaving. And where do you think you're going, Mr. Raymond? I'm going to find the man that killed Don Atwood. You know who killed him? You there when he was shot? No, I was asleep when the boy brought the message. John had been shot in Fenfield gambling house. The boy didn't know who did it, but I do. Pickens did it. Pickens? Yes, Robert Pickens, John's brother in law. Don told me he was looking for Pickens. He must have caught up with him in Thinfield. Hmm. Madwood wanted us to take a message to his sister. Said that he'd done it for her. But before we could give us. Before she could give us her address, he died. You know it, Raymond? No, not the number, but I can take you there. Not now though. I've got to find Pickens first. Well, Pickens is at headquarters and he'll not be leaving until we've had plenty of time to question him. All right then, let's go. Somebody home? You sure this is the place, Ramey? Yes, I'm sure It is. Number 214, Klein. That's the number that Atwood was trying to tell us. Yeah. Okay, I'll try the skeleton key. Good. It opens. Good. Maybe she's flown the coupe. No, I don't think so. Two suitcases in this closet. Dresses hanging on the hook. She might be working. I remember now. Don told me Laura had been working as a waitress in an all night restaurant on Spring Street. Suppose I go see? Okay. If you find her, bring her back here. If you don't come back anyhow and let us know, we'll be waiting. Right. I'll be back as quick as I can. Well, looks like we're in for the wait. Play. Pitch. Harris. A little. Forgot my card. There might be a deck here, though. Sure. Here's one. Clear that stuff off the table. All right. Full deck. Just counting to see. 40, 44, 48, 51. Shorter cards. Oh, well, we can use it anyhow. We know which card's missing. I'll sort them. Spade, heart, spade, club, spade, diamond, club. Ace of spades missing. And we'll make the tray the ace. Remember now, Harris, tray of spades is the ace of spades. All right, shuffle them. Go ahead. Deal. High, low, jack and game. Like taking candy from a baby. What kind of pitch playing is that, Harris? Why don't you pay attention to the cards? Sorry, Jimmy. I can't seem to get My mind on it. Listen, somebody's coming. All right. Hey, what you putting those cards in your pocket for? Just in case I get stuck out alone with you again sometime. Jimmy. Laura, this is Detective Klang of the police and Mr. Harris of the Journal.

[Laura Pickens]

How do you do? How do you do, Mr. Harris?

[Nick Harris]

Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Pickens. I suppose Mr. Ramey has told you. No, I haven't told Laura anything yet. Except. Except that you wanted to talk to her. Oh, well, you see. Mrs. Pickens.

[Laura Pickens]

What is it? Has something happened to my husband?

[Nick Harris]

No, not yet.

[Laura Pickens]

Well, tell me. Please tell me.

[Nick Harris]

I hate to be the one, but your brother's been shot.

[Laura Pickens]

Oh. Oh, how terrible. Where is he? Take me to him.

[Nick Harris]

I would, Mrs. Pickens, gladly, only it's late.

[Laura Pickens]

Scott is dead. Yes, Laura, but what happened? Who did it?

[Nick Harris]

We don't know yet, Mrs. Pickens. But if there's any help you could give the police.

[Laura Pickens]

No, no.

[Nick Harris]

It will all come out sooner or later, Laura. Wouldn't it be better to tell the whole truth now?

[Laura Pickens]

No. All right, I'll tell. Five years ago, back in a little town in Ohio, I met Robert Pickens. Fell in love with him. My family objected strongly. I should have listened to them, of course, but I didn't. We eloped across the state line into Indiana. He took me to Denver and butin about two years ago to Los Angeles. Things went badly when my husband. Well, for a year now, off and on, we'd live him. But I could earn it. A waitlist. I hadn't written my family for years, and I thought and hoped they'd forgotten about me until about three weeks ago when my brother Don walked in on me unexpectedly. He wanted me to go back home again. I'm excused. Won't be parties and angry. I thought John had gone back east, but last night, just before time for me to go to work, I go on duty at seven, John came here.

[Nick Harris]

Listen, Laura, you've simply got to go back with me.

[Laura Pickens]

I can't, Don. I couldn't do it. I'm not going, and that's final.

[Nick Harris]

All right. I didn't want to tell you this, Laura, but it seems I have to. I have been checking up on the husband you've been supporting, and I find he's spending a lot of his time with another woman.

[Laura Pickens]

Oh, no.

[Nick Harris]

Yes, Laura. And that's not the worst. This afternoon I followed them into a cafe in Chinatown with curtained off tables. I slipped into the booth next to theirs and this is what I heard. Well, do we or don't we? Slip off a Frisco tomorrow night, Effie?

[Laura Pickens]

No, Bob, we don't.

[Nick Harris]

Then you mean you didn't mean it when you said you love me?

[Laura Pickens]

Of course I did, Bob. You know I did. Oh, but you see there. Well, I've done so pretty that I wouldn't want to tell my mother. But there's one thing I won't do, Bob. Enough come between a husband and his wife.

[Nick Harris]

But Laura's not my wife.

[Laura Pickens]

She's not?

[Nick Harris]

No. She thinks she is. I never told her the ceremony was a phony. Laura's got no legal claim on me, Effie. Not a shadow of a claim.

[Laura Pickens]

Well, then, in that case, presto. Tomorrow night. But in spite of all he had told me, I still refused to go back home with Don. He swore he'd make Robert go through another ceremony with me so that we would really be married. I knew that wasn't necessary. We were married. Robert was lying to that woman. I begged John to forget the whole thing. Not to worry about me anymore. When he left here, I thought he was going to, but evidently.

[Nick Harris]

I see. Well, thank you, Mrs. Pickens, for telling us. You haven't a thing to worry about. Welcome on, Harris. You'd better come along, too, Raymond. Good night. Well, what do you make of it, Mercy? Neither head nor tail, huh? I thought so. I'd like to get my hands on him, but I won't start anything. Better not have Pickens but in. I want to talk to that fella. You sound pretty sure it was Pickens, Jimmy. Dead sure, Mac. But I don't know how I'm going to prove it. Then go ahead. I'll have Pickens here in a minute. Why not come clean, Pickens? Four witnesses say you and Atwood were alone at that table when the shooting took place. All right, I did shoot Atwood. I had to insult a fence. We were playing studs, see? Well, Atwood rung in a phony. Caught on me. When I caught him at it, he pulled a gun. That's a lie. John never did a dishonest thing in his life. He did that, Remy. What became of this phony card, Dickens? Well, Atwood slipped it back in his pocket when he reached for his gun. If it's there, you planted it on him. Hey, Klein. Look, Klein, there is a card in that wood's pocket. Look at the back of it. And then take a look at the back of the deck. We were playing pitch with in Pickens flat. Pickens owns deck. Better see him. All right. Remember, this deck was one card short. The ace of spades. What card is that? Decent, Magnus. Well, what card is it? Run it over here so I can see it. The ace of spades. The ace of spades. Yes, Mr. Tong. An unlucky card for Mr. Robert Pickens. He paid the bitter penalty for murder. John Atwood might be still alive today had he not tried to take the law into his own hands. As proven to you in this true life story I have entitled the Fatal Ace of Fate. And thank you, Mr. Russell. Ladies and gentlemen, you have just heard another truce life story brought to you by Detective Nicholas B. Harris, internationally famous Los Angeles criminologist and chief of detective agency bearing his name. Although this was a true story, fixatious names and places have been used throughout this narrative. The story was dramatized by Ralph Burkhardt, directed and produced by Carolyn Carroll. Mr. Harris wishes me to thank you following cast for their participation in this broadcast. Betty Carmine, Olive Thomas, Jack Coster, Thomas Melba, Eddie Ryan, Malcolm Bellairs, Robert Moore, Aldean Brennaman and George Conkling. And Eric Loren. Mr. Harris will again be heard over the same station next Friday evening at 8:45. And another interesting crime story in entitled Drops of Blood and which will prove to the youth of today the folly of committing crime.