Big Jim Mc Clain 1953-11-05 Audition

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Big Jim McClain 1953-11-05 Audition"

Introduction

Harold's Old Time Radio brings listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with its captivating dramatizations of classic radio shows. In the episode titled "Big Jim McClain 1953-11-05 Audition," listeners are immersed in a tense narrative set against the backdrop of the early 1950s Red Scare. The story follows Big Jim McClain, an investigator for the Senate Committee on Un-American Activities, as he delves into allegations of communist infiltration within the National Food Products Company.

Setting the Stage

The episode opens with Big Jim McClain (voiced by Jim Arness) introducing himself and providing context for his assignment.

• [00:34] Big Jim McClain: "The official report says that I was assigned to the case on Monday, September 15, 1952. Unofficially, it was my anniversary. Nancy and I had been married exactly one week."

This introduction sets a personal tone, highlighting the tension between McClain’s professional duties and his newlywed life.

Conflict with Chief Investigator

McClain's superior, Larry Lowry (voiced by Will Wright), challenges his dedication to the case.

• [00:53] Larry Lowry: "I don't have to flag wave with you, Jim. You'd be halfway to Cleveland by this time if you realize the seriousness of these charges."

McClain defends his stance on the allegations, emphasizing the absurdity of claims that communists plan to sabotage the company's canned goods.

• [01:00] Big Jim McClain: "Larry, this is a crank letter if I ever saw one. A factory full of communists ready to slip poison into every can of food shipped to our armed forces the minute we have trouble with Russia."

Personal Struggles

Balancing his duty, McClain struggles with leaving his wife, Nancy (voiced by Doe Avedon), behind.

• [01:45] Big Jim McClain: "I guess I'm not the first 6 foot 4 guy who's ever been afraid of a 5 foot 4 wife."

Nancy's supportive yet inquisitive nature is evident as she assists him with household tasks, unaware of the full extent of his turmoil.

• [02:15] Nancy McClain: "Those go on the middle window, Jim. I think those brackets that are up there ought to fit."

Investigating the Factory

Upon arriving at the National Food Products Company, McClain meets Maxwell Lincoln (voiced by Carlton Young), the company's president, who introduces him to Sally Combs (voiced by Florence Ravenel), the personnel director.

• [03:43] Maxwell Lincoln: "I'll give instructions to our personnel director to give you all the help she can."

McClain attempts to blend in while conducting his investigation discreetly.

Encounter with Pete Chernick

McClain’s pursuit leads him to Pete Chernick (voiced by Joe Forte), a foreman with suspected communist ties.

• [05:07] Big Jim McClain: "Well, are there any individuals that you feel might have communist leanings?"
• [05:19] Nancy McClain: "Well, there's a man named Pete Cernak who's foreman of Central Shipping. He's always agitating for something or other."

Their interaction is tense, with McClain probing for information while Chernick remains defensive.

• [06:06] Pete Chernick: "I think I'm getting you pretty right. What do you figure is the peak hours for this department?"

Seeking Leads

Despite initial setbacks, McClain receives assistance from Sally Combs, who provides him with a list of employees to question.

• [07:05] Big Jim McClain: "Gosh, that's terrific, Ms. Combs. Now, that's the kind of a lift a guy needs on the first day of an assignment."

However, progress is slow as the workers either clear themselves or refuse to cooperate.

Uncovering Hidden Truths

McClain's investigation leads him to Nick Rennert's Bar and Grill, where he uncovers conversations hinting at communist sentiments.

• [08:00] Maxwell Lincoln: "Well, the guy don't remember exact words for so long, but a bunch of them commies was talking about how Russia could lick this country without a speck of trouble."

This revelation deepens the mystery and underscores the pervasive fear of communist infiltration.

Confrontation and Revelation

A pivotal moment occurs when Chernick confronts McClain, resulting in a physical altercation that leaves McClain questioning his approach.

• [13:52] Pete Chernick: "Oh, here, have a swig of this coffee."
• [13:56] Big Jim McClain: "So you found a way to shut me up, eh, Chernick?"

Despite the conflict, Chernick hints at deeper layers within the communist network, revealing that McClain’s investigation is stirring significant resistance.

Unexpected Alliances

As McClain delves deeper, he reconnects with Sally Combs, who reveals her true allegiance and complicates his mission.

• [16:20] Sally Combs: "Are you all right?"
• [16:57] Sally Combs: "Present. Right downstairs in the lobby. I had a date to meet someone here for dinner, but it looks as though I've been stood up."

Their ensuing interaction blurs the lines between professional duty and personal relationships, culminating in Sally’s confession.

Climactic Confrontation

The investigation reaches a head when McClain breaks into George Baird’s mansion, uncovering conclusive evidence of the communist plot.

• [23:00] Nancy McClain: "Jim, what do you."
• [23:01] Big Jim McClain: "What right have you to force your way in the way?"

In a dramatic showdown, McClain exposes the orchestrated efforts to sabotage the National Food Products Company, implicating key figures like Sally Combs and Pete Chernick.

• [23:14] Big Jim McClain: "Their files contain carefully worked out plans for taking over the Food center, so vital to Our nation."

Resolution and Reflection

With the conspiracy unraveled, McClain reflects on the personal cost of his mission, reconciling his professional success with his strained marriage.

• [24:23] Nancy McLean: "Jim. Have you noticed that girl in the picture looks a whole lot like me?"
• [25:06] John Milton Kennedy (Narrator): "Any resemblance to actual people or organizations was entirely coincidental. But our story was based on fact."

Conclusion

"Big Jim McClain 1953-11-05 Audition" masterfully encapsulates the paranoia and tension of the 1950s Red Scare, blending personal drama with political intrigue. Through vivid characters and sharp dialogue, the episode explores themes of loyalty, suspicion, and the personal sacrifices made in the name of national security. This dramatization not only entertains but also provides a poignant reflection on a pivotal era in American history.

Notable Quotes:

• Larry Lowry [00:53]: "You'd be halfway to Cleveland by this time if you realize the seriousness of these charges."
• Big Jim McClain [01:00]: "A factory full of communists ready to slip poison into every can of food shipped to our armed forces the minute we have trouble with Russia."
• Nancy McClain [02:15]: "I knew there must be some reason for my marrying you."
• Pete Chernick [05:28]: "He's got a very bad leg he drags along. I'm afraid it's made him rather bitter and surly."
• Big Jim McClain [15:02]: "Do something for you, mister."
• Nancy McClain [16:21]: "Your loving bride. It's nice of you to remember me."
• Big Jim McClain [18:53]: "James McLean, investigator, Senate Committee on Un American Activities."
• John Milton Kennedy [25:06]: "Any resemblance to actual people or organizations was entirely coincidental. But our story was based on fact."

This episode, produced by Wayne Fellows and directed by Bud Lesser with original music by Frank Worth, features a stellar cast including Jim Arness, Doe Avedon, Will Wright, Carlton Young, and Florence Ravenel. It stands as a testament to the rich storytelling and dramatic flair that defined the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

[Big Jim McLean]

Big Jim McLean.

[John Milton Kennedy]

This is John Milton Kennedy speaking and bringing you the dramatized report of an investigator for the Senate Committee on UN American Activities, the personal journal of a man and his job.

[Big Jim McLean]

The official report says that I was assigned to the case on Monday, September 15, 1952. Unofficially, it was my anniversary. Nancy and I had been married exactly one week. But I guess Lowry, he's our chief investigator, isn't the sentimental type. Or if he is, his sentiment has a patriotic flavor to it.

[Larry Lowry]

I don't have to flag wave with you, Jim. You'd be halfway to Cleveland by this time if you realize the seriousness of these charges.

[Big Jim McLean]

Larry, this is a crank letter if I ever saw one. A factory full of communists ready to slip poison into every can of food shipped to our armed forces the minute we have trouble with Russia.

[Larry Lowry]

All right, all right, I'll admit it is fantastic. But the National Food Products Company shipped thousands of tons of canned goods overseas during the war years, not to mention what it turned out for civilian consumption. And any sort of trouble there during the period of national emergency could be costly.

[Big Jim McLean]

Now, wait a minute. You mean if the commies really are entrenched international, they could cause plenty of damage without using strychnine, is that it?

[Larry Lowry]

Mm, right on the button. Work stoppages, wildcat strikes, absenteeism or sabotage of any kind might contribute to an acute food show.

[Big Jim McLean]

When do you want me to leave?

[Larry Lowry]

I made a reservation for you on the midnight plane.

[Big Jim McLean]

I guess I'm not the first 6 foot 4 guy who's ever been afraid of a 5 foot 4 wife. I walked down Pennsylvania Avenue on the way home, hoping that a sight of the White House might give me inspiration. But by 10 o'clock that night, I still hadn't figured out how a guy can tell his wife of one week that he has to leave town, that he may be gone a few days, a few weeks or a few months. Fortunately, Nancy's main interest in life at that moment were the curtains she just finished hemming, and so she hadn't been paying too much attention to me.

[Nancy McLean]

Those go on the middle window, Jim. I think those brackets that are up there ought to fit.

[Big Jim McLean]

Yeah, seems to. That's a break.

[Nancy McLean]

I knew there must be some reason for my marrying you.

[Big Jim McLean]

Hmm.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, I couldn't have found many husbands tall enough to hang curtains without even using a ladder. What's wrong, Jim?

[Big Jim McLean]

Nothing. Nothing's wrong.

[Nancy McLean]

You still sore because I applied for that job?

[Big Jim McLean]

I'm not sore about anything.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, something's troubling you. I know it, Nance.

[Big Jim McLean]

I've got a new assignment. I've got to leave for Cleveland in a couple of hours.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, that's not so terrible. I haven't actually started to work.

[Big Jim McLean]

You couldn't come along, honey, even if you hadn't accepted a job.

[Nancy McLean]

Spend Saturdays and Sundays with you, can't I? Cleveland's not very far.

[Big Jim McLean]

I'm sorry, baby.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, how are you planning to spend your weekends, Jim?

[Big Jim McLean]

Working, probably, but that's not the point.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, maybe you'd better get to it.

[Big Jim McLean]

It's this way, Nancy. The papers played up that last case too big, you know. Hawaii. The investigator on the case finding romance in the magical islands. And a flock of subpoenas. And a wedding license issued the same day. Swell copy. Hit every newspaper in the country. Taking you along would be just like wearing a neon sign reading Big Jim McLean. You'd be a dead giveaway.

[Nancy McLean]

What do you intend to do, Go disguised as a singer's midget?

[Big Jim McLean]

I worried about Nancy's attitude the whole flight to Cleveland. But by the time I'd arrived there, my mind had turned to the job at hand. I rented a car the next morning, it was Tuesday, September 16, and drove out to the factory on Euclid, near East. 140th, Maxwell Lincoln, National's energetic young president, proved 100% cooperative.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

I'll give instructions to our personnel director to give you all the help she can.

[Big Jim McLean]

She? Huh.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Young and pretty, too, but don't let that fool you. Sally Combs. Majored in economics and Business Management at Chase University. Graduated with highest honors. Ms. Wilson. Get Ms. Combs on the line.

[Big Jim McLean]

Would you mind holding it for just a second, Mr. Lincoln?

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Oh, sure.

[Big Jim McLean]

Never mind.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Miss Wilson.

[Big Jim McLean]

Yes? I was just a little afraid of what you might tell her. You see, I'd like my identity and official position to remain a secret between the two of us for the moment, Mr. Lincoln. Well, of course. I'm registered over at the Hollanden Hotel under the name of Jim Masters. And if anyone inquires there, they'll be told that I'm a bachelor who has lived at the hotel for years. It's just a little precaution. Oh, I understand.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

And I wish you good luck in your work, but frankly, I hope you can't find a single communist in our whole plant.

[Big Jim McLean]

I think it'd make me happier, Mr. Lincoln. It seemed like a 10 mile hike to the north administration building where the personnel department was located. And when I got there, I had a real shock waiting for me. Seated behind an impressively large desk was a girl who looked almost Enough like my Nancy to be her twin sister.

[Nancy McLean]

Won't you have a seat, Mr. Masters?

[Big Jim McLean]

Even her voice.

[Nancy McLean]

Is anything wrong?

[Big Jim McLean]

I guess I was just thinking of something else.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, Mr. Lincoln said you were preoccupied with the job you're doing.

[Big Jim McLean]

Yeah, that's it, Ms. Combs.

[Nancy McLean]

He warned me not to ask any questions, but I can't help wondering if you're not doing this in connection with some sort of magazine article or something like that.

[Big Jim McLean]

It's along that line, kind of.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, I'll do what I can, but so far as I know, there certainly isn't any organized communist group within the plant.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, are there any individuals that you feel might have communist leanings?

[Nancy McLean]

Well, I wouldn't want to accuse anyone without proof. Well, there's a man named Pete Cernak who's foreman of Central Shipping. He's always agitating for something or other.

[Big Jim McLean]

I'd like to talk to him. Can I get around the factory without causing suspicion?

[Nancy McLean]

I'll pin this little badge on you. That ought to do it.

[Big Jim McLean]

Hmm. Time study researcher. Makes me sound important.

[Nancy McLean]

I hope Pete Chernick won't give you a false impression of our company family. He's got a very bad leg he drags along. I'm afraid it's made him rather bitter and surly.

[Pete Chernick]

Now, look, mister, you want to ask me questions about the work here, okay. But you're trying to pry into a bunch of stuff that's none of your business. Now, watch your angle.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, in doing a time study, Mr. Cherning, it's been determined that the men's work can be seriously affected by their frame of mind. So if some of the men spend their lunch hour talking about what they.

[Pete Chernick]

Talk about in the lunch hour. Doesn't concern me. And even if I happen to know, I wouldn't tell her To a company stooge.

[Big Jim McLean]

You got me all wrong.

[Pete Chernick]

I think I'm getting you pretty right. What do you figure is the peak hours for this department?

[Big Jim McLean]

I haven't checked on that yet.

[Pete Chernick]

Well, I was thinking maybe you might recommend a switch over to unit rates for this department. Any chance of that?

[Big Jim McLean]

What's it's worth thinking about?

[Pete Chernick]

Worth thinking about unit rates for Central Shipping. You're darn right. I got you figured, pal. Time study researcher, huh?

[Nancy McLean]

Chernak was a little rough on you, eh?

[Big Jim McLean]

If I have to depend on him for information, I'll hand in Arima blank paper.

[Nancy McLean]

Well, maybe these will help. I've made lists of all the men in the plan I thought you might want to question.

[Big Jim McLean]

Gosh, that's terrific, Ms. Combs. Now, that's the kind of a lift a guy needs on the first day of an assignment. And look, if I can ever do you a favor. Just name it. Sally and I continued to work closely together for over two weeks, but despite her help, I got exactly nowhere. The men on the list were either able to clear themselves or else refused to talk. I'd hoped to clean up the case without calling on the character who'd sent that poisoned pen letter, because his reputation was about as wholesome as the odor of cheap whiskey and stale beer that emanated from his saloon on St. Clair Avenue not far from the plant. But I was up against it. I arrived at Nick Rennert's Bar and Grill about 11am on Friday, Oct. 3. But it took a long time to find out the reason for Nick's sudden patriotism.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

All right, so I got a few black marks against me. That's why I figured if anyone caught Wise that all them commies from over at national are making this their hangout. I might have my license yanked.

[Big Jim McLean]

According to the records, you've gotten out of tougher spots, Nick.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Yeah, but these guys ain't worth taking no risks for. Sitting around all evening chewing a rag. Guys like that cripple they call Pete, yelling so loud, they chase out all the other customers.

[Big Jim McLean]

Is Pete Chernick the one they said planned to poison the food sent to our armed forces?

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Nah, he wasn't here that night.

[John Milton Kennedy]

It was a fella called Snyder or.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Schneider, something like that. Sam, his first name is.

[Big Jim McLean]

What did he actually say, Nick?

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Well, the guy don't remember exact words for so long, but a bunch of them commies was talking about how Russia could lick this country without a speck of trouble. One of them said, sure, they had twice the number of a bombs we had.

[Big Jim McLean]

What was the name of the man who said that?

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Well, I don't know the rest of them by name, but it was this guy Sam who claimed that no bomb ever invented could take over a country. That an army really had to move in with troops.

[Big Jim McLean]

Yes.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

So some other joker makes a crack about the US infantry, and Sam says they ain't got nothing to worry about in that quarter. That the US Would be buying a lot of food from national in the next war, too. And that an army marches on its stomach.

[Big Jim McLean]

I had one new name, Sam Schneider or Snyder. But if he was a pal of Pete Chernick's, he'd probably been tipped off. So I decided to go after this one in a little different way. I talked to Sally Combs and told her that I might not be in for a couple of days. And then I headed for the local offices of the United Food Workers Union. Harry Kahn, its business agent, had a good record in our books.

[Harry Kahn]

It's S, N E I D E R. Everything we got on them is right here on this card. Job qualification, employment record, dues payments and home address.

[Big Jim McLean]

Is Richmond Road near here?

[Harry Kahn]

No, it's pretty far around. Sorry, I can't tell you much about him, but he's a transfer from a California local. He's only been here since June of last year. Worked about a month over at Aetna Canning on the west side and. And got a job at National.

[Big Jim McLean]

What's this all scratched up here on the card?

[Harry Kahn]

Oh, he changed job qualification and departments a few weeks ago. Went from inspection to Central Shipping.

[Big Jim McLean]

I phoned Washington for a check on Schneider, but it took until 6:35pm for them to get back to me. Snyder was a man with a very colorful past, and the color was red. It was too late to find anyone of authority where he used to work, and I didn't want a chance going to his house at an hour when he'd probably be home. So I hit the hay early. The next day was Saturday, October 4th. I got an early start for the west side, but it was almost noon before I located the Aetna Canning Company. It was a small plant on a hard to find street off Lorraine Avenue. I saw the head of the company, Mr. George Baird.

[George Baird]

Not at all. I'm happy you found me here. I don't usually come in on Saturdays at all, but I have a luncheon meeting right near here today.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, I'll try not to hold you up for too long, Mr. Baird.

[George Baird]

Don't worry. They're obliged to wait for the guest of honor. The Citizens for America are awarding me a little plaque for what they deem outstanding Americanism.

[Big Jim McLean]

That's very nice.

[George Baird]

Yes. Oh, here we are. Schneider, Samuel.

[Big Jim McLean]

Let's see.

[George Baird]

He was in our employ from July 6 to August 18 of last year. Work satisfactory, but left to obtain a job elsewhere at an increased salary.

[Big Jim McLean]

Did you know when you hired him that he had a long record of communist and communist front activities?

[George Baird]

It's very difficult for a small plant like ours to obtain good help. But if I'd known it, I certainly wouldn't have hired him. I'm sorry. There's nothing I can tell you that might serve as a constructive contribution to your work.

[Big Jim McLean]

You've been very cooperative. I'm sorry I held you up. Oh, and congratulations. On the honor that's being given you.

[Harry Kahn]

Thank you.

[Big Jim McLean]

You know, it's too bad a few more people don't hand out plaques instead of throwing brick B.

[Mrs. Snyder]

You can save your knuckles, mister.

[Nancy McLean]

There's no one home at the Snyders thanks.

[Mrs. Snyder]

You a bill collector or something?

[Big Jim McLean]

No.

[Mrs. Snyder]

Well, it wouldn't surprise me any if they didn't pay their bills. The way he plays poker until all hours, you'd think those poker games were something the way he carries on, always sending his wife and kids out to the movies and not letting them back in the house until the men have gone.

[Big Jim McLean]

Now, those poker games that the house is cleared for, do you happen to know who plays in them?

[Mrs. Snyder]

My husband would know. I'm not acquainted with any of them except Al Ornaker. He's foreman at Phil's Department over at National.

[Big Jim McLean]

One more name. If I'd gone to Schneider's house the night before, I probably would have walked smack into the cell meeting and learned them all. Snyder's Shift ended at 4 on Saturday, and it was almost that time when I reached the plant and headed for Central Shipping. There was an extra rush on to clean off the dock, and the cranes were scooping up huge piles of enormous crates. A dozen men were rushing around the loading platform, and any one of them could have been Schneider, so far as I was concerned. I saw Pete Chernick shuffling toward me, so I hurried over to the timekeeper's desk.

[Harry Kahn]

With you In a second, Mr. Pete Charnick. You haven't signed the dailies yet.

[Pete Chernick]

Couple of minutes, Art.

[Harry Kahn]

Okay. Do something for you, mister.

[Big Jim McLean]

I was wondering where Sam Schneider was.

[Harry Kahn]

I'll get him for you.

[Big Jim McLean]

Oh, look, I don't want you to.

[Harry Kahn]

Schneider. Sam Schneider. You wanted the timekeepers. Schneider, Sam. Watch out, mister.

[Big Jim McLean]

That crane's smelling his clothes. The stuff's coming right at you, mister.

[Harry Kahn]

They better get out of the way.

[John Milton Kennedy]

And now back to our story of Big Jim McLean.

[Pete Chernick]

Oh, here, have a swig of this coffee.

[Big Jim McLean]

So you found a way to shut me up, eh, Chernick?

[Pete Chernick]

You aren't hurt?

[Big Jim McLean]

I feel as though every one of those crates had hit me head on.

[Harry Kahn]

The only thing hit you was Shernick. If he hadn't taken a flying tackle, you'd be nothing but a grease spot by now.

[Big Jim McLean]

I see.

[Pete Chernick]

Run along hard. No use both of us being late for dinner.

[Harry Kahn]

Okay. See you Monday, Pete. Night, mister.

[Big Jim McLean]

I'm sorry I jumped to conclusions, Pete. I'd like to thank.

[Pete Chernick]

I don't want your apologies and I don't want your thanks. I still don't like snoopers.

[Big Jim McLean]

See? Why'd you save me?

[Pete Chernick]

Because I got smashed up in an accident before you were born. When I got this job, I swore nobody'd ever get hurt here as long as I was foreman. The guy who caused that accident got booted out of the west gate while you were still listening to birdies.

[Big Jim McLean]

There wasn't any accident. I think you know it.

[Pete Chernick]

I don't know anything of the sort. What are you trying to hand me?

[Big Jim McLean]

The pattern's a pretty familiar one, Pete. You recognize me as an investigator for the committee. My first day here, and you passed the word along to the boys. But when Schneider heard me paging him, he sort of lost his head. You saved the day by sending him packing before I could bring any charges against him. That meant it brought a little too much out into the open.

[Pete Chernick]

That's what you think, huh?

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, it was Schneider, wasn't it?

[Pete Chernick]

Yeah.

[Big Jim McLean]

And do you deny that you hold a Party card? Number four, five seven two.

[Pete Chernick]

Oh, okay, so I've got a card. But I joined way back after my accident. The guys I worked for gave me the boot even before I was out of the hospital. And the Communists were the only ones who put up a squawk for me.

[Big Jim McLean]

Seems to me, from what I've been able to find out, that national did more for you than just squawk.

[Pete Chernick]

Old man Lincoln was the only one to give me a job, I'll admit that.

[Big Jim McLean]

But you're willing to see the Party destroy the plant he built and that his son runs.

[Pete Chernick]

Now, I wouldn't do anything against the old man's son. But you're letting your imagination run away with you. There's no Communist plot to destroy the plant.

[Big Jim McLean]

The only way we can be sure is to check on everyone. Now, I want you to tell me the names of everyone in your cell.

[Pete Chernick]

What do you want from a guy? I've admitted I'm a Party member, but I'm not ratting on my friends.

[Big Jim McLean]

Okay, but when you get home, you just think about the kids who've lost legs. And some of them two arms while fighting the commies in Korea. Now, here. This is where you can reach me if you change your mind. I was too wobbly to start combing the city for Schneider. And besides, I know how the Party works. By that time, I couldn't have found him with a telescope from the Mount Palomar Observatory. I didn't feel like food, so I went back to the hotel and straight up to my room. Hello, Jim.

[Sally Combs]

Are you all right?

[Big Jim McLean]

Oh, yeah, I'm okay. I Would have come up to your office to see you afterwards if I'd known that you'd heard about it but didn't worry you. Sally.

[Sally Combs]

Sally. Sorry to disappoint you. Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

Nancy. Yes.

[Sally Combs]

Your loving bride. It's nice of you to remember me. It's been over a week since I got your last letter and I've been worried and lonely. The panda you want. Who's Sally?

[Big Jim McLean]

Sally happens to be a girl.

[Sally Combs]

Who could have guessed that?

[Big Jim McLean]

Now, listen, Nancy.

[Sally Combs]

So you didn't want me to come to Cleveland, even for weekends? Someone might recognize me and I swallowed all that. Well, have fun, Jim. I intend to.

[Big Jim McLean]

Now, Nancy, let me. Nance. Stubborn little idiot.

[Pete Chernick]

Yes, Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, I'm glad you decided to call back. Now, if you think for one minute that I before.

[Sally Combs]

Say, who do you think this is?

[Big Jim McLean]

Sally.

[Sally Combs]

Present. Right downstairs in the lobby. I had a date to meet someone here for dinner, but it looks as though I've been stood up. Have you eaten yet?

[Big Jim McLean]

Oh, no.

[Sally Combs]

Looks as though you're gonna make me go all the way. Jim, you once said if I ever wanted a favor from you, I should name it. Well, I'm naming it. I want you to save me from the horrible fate of spending Saturday night all alone.

[Pete Chernick]

Okay.

[Big Jim McLean]

We'll do the town. Why not?

[Nancy McLean]

Gosh, it's been a scrumptious evening. Jim. You like this place?

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, it's fine, if you don't mind not being able to see 6 inches in front of you. They sure save money on electricity. Yeah. I wish you wouldn't giggle like that, Sally.

[Nancy McLean]

You don't like girls who giggle?

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, that's just it. I do. And I'm having enough trouble remembering that you just look like another girl who giggles.

[Nancy McLean]

I wish you'd stop talking in riddles and relax for about 10.

[Big Jim McLean]

2:30 in the morning is no time to start relaxing.

[Nancy McLean]

Maybe it's the witching hour. Jim, it's time I confess that no one stood me up tonight. I came to the hotel on the chance I'd find you in, not tied up for the evening.

[Big Jim McLean]

You're gonna make me very conceited.

[Nancy McLean]

Why shouldn't a girl have a right to make pretty speeches? We can confine our relationship to business after tonight, if that's the way you want it. Jim, I've got to tell you that you're the most attractive man I've ever.

[Big Jim McLean]

You're a mighty attractive.

[Nancy McLean]

Kiss me, Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

Just kiss. Oh, look, I. Well, you know, this is pretty doggone hard to say, but. Well, here, take a look at this.

[Nancy McLean]

James McLean, investigator, Senate Committee on Un American Activities.

[Big Jim McLean]

I had to use an alias. That's my name. I live in Washington and I'm married. I'm sorry if I've hurt you.

[Nancy McLean]

It isn't your fault. You never gave me any encouragement.

[Big Jim McLean]

Maybe you can get some satisfaction out of knowing that you may have helped your country a little. That tip off on Pete Schernick that you gave me the first day could pay off. I've got a sneaking idea that I'm gonna get a call from at the hotel, and I'm hoping it'll give me some real information.

[Nancy McLean]

I'm glad I was able to help, Jim. And now, if you don't mind, I'll take a taxi home alone.

[Big Jim McLean]

I put her in a cab, and then I walked back to the hotel feeling like a dog. I bought a Sunday paper at the desk, and after I'd undressed, I began to read. The political situation was still taught, and Little Orphan Annie was having a heap of trouble. And there was that little item about George Baird getting that patriotism award. Oh, those Sunday papers are sure big. It was almost five when I turned out the light and started to climb into. Who is it?

[Pete Chernick]

Charnick. Pete Charnick, Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

Pete, what's happened to you?

[Pete Chernick]

Someone must have heard us talking together. Figured I'd tell you what you wanted to know. About an hour and a half ago, they came to my house and dragged me out of bed. Drove me way out the country and beat me up. I got away and they chased me for a while, but I gave him a slip in the darkness. I'll tell you anything I can, Jim. You call the shots.

[Big Jim McLean]

Who's the top brass in the party, Pete? Who's been planning the strategy at the plant?

[Pete Chernick]

I don't know that. They hold special meetings on Sundays, but I don't know where or who goes to them. You see, I've never been willing to blindly accept everything they hand down from the top. So I guess they never really trusted me.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, how many party members are there working at National?

[Pete Chernick]

I don't know that either, but I could pick out most of the names if I saw.

[Big Jim McLean]

Then let me slip into some clothes, and we'll go on down to the plant and check through the personnel files now. Well, I'd rather not have to ask Sally Combs for any more favors. She won't be there on Sunday. Besides, time might be important. Very important.

[Pete Chernick]

I still don't understand what you're all excited about, Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

You will if Lowry ever comes back with his phone. Come on, Lowry. Get on the ball.

[Larry Lowry]

Well, I'm looking, Jim. I don't see anything yet. Oh, hold on a minute.

[Pete Chernick]

But you've already talked to most of those guys, Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

What I didn't know, Pete, was that almost every single one of them came to national from Aetna.

[Larry Lowry]

Jim, that Americanism organization could be a phony. But I haven't a thing on it. Nothing in the files in George Barrett, either.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, there's got to be something. Did you look in the cross index?

[Larry Lowry]

Look, Jim, the closest thing I have to a name like George Barrett is a Bert George, and I don't think he's your man.

[Big Jim McLean]

Why not?

[Larry Lowry]

This guy was a college professor who got kicked out a couple of years ago for putting some things in the text that didn't belong there. There's no possible connection with the operator of a small canning factory. You're on the wrong track, Jim.

[Big Jim McLean]

Maybe not. This guy sounded as though he might have been a professor at one time. Hey, just a minute, Lowry. Now, what was the name of that college?

[Larry Lowry]

Chase University. Taught Economics and Business management.

[Big Jim McLean]

That does it, chief. You can go back to bed now. What are you. Hand me that piece of Sunday paper, Pete. Sure.

[Pete Chernick]

You know, Jim, if we could figure out where they hold the Sunday meetings, you might be able to.

[Big Jim McLean]

I think it's right here in the paper. What? Here? Here it is. Well known for his philanthropic and civic work, Mr. Baird is a resident of fashionable Linhaven. Now, where's Linhaven, Pete?

[Pete Chernick]

Oh, it's nearly halfway to Sandusky. I'm not 6.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, I better clear the way because I'm coming through. You fellas get over there on the side there. Get around. You.

[Harry Kahn]

Come on.

[Big Jim McLean]

That's right. Hell, we may not have the house surrounded, Mr. McLean. Pretty fancy house for a small factory owner, isn't it, huh? Right. Wait a minute.

[Pete Chernick]

Here.

[Big Jim McLean]

This key ought to work.

[Pete Chernick]

No way.

[Big Jim McLean]

Dick, are you sure you don't want a garden? I'll let your boys handle that end of it. I've got my camera loaded. Well, here goes.

[Nancy McLean]

Jim, what do you.

[Big Jim McLean]

What right have you to force your way in the way? All right, all right. Now get your hands away from that file, Mr. Barrett. Everyone stay put.

[Nancy McLean]

Stand still.

[Larry Lowry]

I've got a search warrant. My friend here has a few subpoenas.

[Big Jim McLean]

He'D like to hand out. But first, a little picture, if you don't mind.

[Maxwell Lincoln]

Watch the birdie.

[Big Jim McLean]

Why, you. Thank you. Now, just try to talk your way out of that evidence. Their files contain carefully worked out plans for taking over the Food center, so vital to Our nation. We found no evidence of a plot to use poison, but that was about the only bet they had over the Aetna plant was a blind that served only as a training ground for the party members. So they could learn just enough to get them by in the industry. And then Sally Combs, George Baird's honors student when he was a professor at Chase, placed them in key positions at National. And every single thing that she'd done had but one objective. She'd put the finger on Pete as a sacrificial goat because he was a non conformer and they didn't trust him. She'd burdened me with long lists to delay my work. And she'd come to the hotel that night to find out just how much I'd learned. And when she discovered that I'd expected information from Peachy sick the goon squad on him, well, that was the story. But I managed to forget the part about Sally Combs. When I told Nancy a little about the case. However, Nancy managed to unearth a copy of the group picture that I'd taken at the Baird mansion. You know how wives are.

[Nancy McLean]

Jim. Have you noticed that girl in the picture looks a whole lot like me?

[Big Jim McLean]

Nonsense, honey.

[Nancy McLean]

No, I mean it.

[Big Jim McLean]

Well, not if you look close. You've got a sort of an amused look, and hers is cynical. If you study your face, you can see that she's a lot older than you are and more worldly. And her mouth has a cruel twist to it. She doesn't really look at all like you, honey. It's nothing but a. An optical illusion.

[John Milton Kennedy]

Any resemblance to actual people or organizations was entirely coincidental. But our story was based on fact. The role of Jim McLean was played by Jim Arness, and Doe Avedon appeared as Nancy. Others in the cast were Will Wright, Carlton Young, Shepard Mencken, Florence Ravenel, Bill Boucher and Joe Forte. Original music was composed and conducted by Frank Worth. And Bud Lesser wrote and directed. Big Jim McLean is a Wayne Fellows production. John Milton Kennedy speaking.