Box 13 4x-xx-xx (05) Extra Extra

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio: Episode Summary - Box 13 (05) "Extra Extra"

Release Date: March 3, 2025

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Introduction

"Box 13" is a gripping installment of Harold's Old Time Radio series, starring Alan Ladd as the charismatic detective, Dan Holliday. Set against the backdrop of the Golden Age of Radio, this episode delves into themes of justice, innocence, and the unwavering determination to uncover the truth. In "Extra Extra," Dan Holliday finds himself entangled in a complex case involving a young boy, Johnny Moran, whose father is wrongfully accused of grand theft.

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Plot Overview

The episode opens with Dan Holliday navigating the challenges of his latest adventure advertisement, which surprisingly attracts responses from unexpected sources. At [01:05], Holliday reflects on his writing career with a touch of humor:

Dan Holliday: "Why did you ever decide to write fiction for a living? You know you could have gone into something interesting like being a truck driver with the open road in front of you and a motorcycle cop in back."

This humorous self-reflection sets the stage for the unfolding drama. Soon after, Holliday receives a peculiar postcard from Johnny Moran, a young newspaper seller, expressing concern over his father, John Moran, who has been implicated in a recent jewelry heist.

At [05:25], Johnny directly appeals to Holliday's sense of justice:

Johnny Moran: "He didn't do it Mr. Holliday. That's why I came to see you."

Determined to assist, Holliday embarks on an investigation that leads him to confront District Attorney Clark at [07:32]. Here, Holliday challenges the validity of John Moran's guilt, suggesting that the evidence against him might be circumstantial.

Dan Holliday: "Well what now Mr. Holliday? What's new in box 13? [...] His son thinks Moran is innocent."

Despite the district attorney's firm stance, Holliday remains unconvinced, especially after reviewing the newspaper clipping and hearing Johnny's heartfelt plea. The plot thickens when Johnny Moran is suddenly involved in a hit-and-run accident, raising suspicions about foul play.

As the narrative progresses, Holliday uncovers connections between Grace Willard, the woman who initially involved John Moran, and Joe Coakley, adding layers to the mystery. The tension culminates in a dramatic confrontation at a dance hall, where Holliday ingeniously exposes the culprits behind the jewelry theft and the framing of John Moran.

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Key Characters and Interactions

• Dan Holliday (Alan Ladd): The astute and determined detective whose pursuit of justice drives the narrative. His interactions with Johnny Moran showcase his compassionate side, while his confrontations with District Attorney Clark highlight his relentless quest for the truth.

• Johnny Moran: A resourceful and sincere young boy whose unwavering belief in his father's innocence propels the story forward. His partnership with Holliday exemplifies the theme of unlikely alliances in the face of injustice.

• District Attorney Clark: The antagonist whose refusal to reconsider John Moran's guilt presents significant obstacles for Holliday. His interactions with Holliday reveal a character torn between duty and potential corruption.

• Grace Willard and Joe Coakley: These characters add complexity to the plot, with Grace's initial deceit and Joe's menacing presence serving as catalysts for the eventual resolution.

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Notable Moments and Quotes

1. Johnny's Plea for Help ([05:25]):

   Johnny Moran: "He didn't do it Mr. Holliday. That's why I came to see you."

   This pivotal moment underscores the central conflict and sets Holliday on his investigative path.

2. Holliday's Challenge to the DA ([08:17]):

   Dan Holliday: "What's Moran's story?"

   Holliday's probing questions reveal inconsistencies in the prosecution's case, highlighting his investigative acumen.

3. Discovery of Joe Coakley ([21:57]):

   Dan Holliday: "Oh, wait a second. Say, isn't that Joe Coakley over there? Oh, you know Joe?"

   This realization marks a turning point, connecting key characters and advancing the plot toward its climax.

4. The Final Confrontation ([25:10]):

   Dan Holliday: "This is the last chapter to a story I was afraid might have an unhappy ending."

   Holliday's declaration encapsulates the episode's tension and the anticipation of resolving the mystery.

5. Resolution and Reward ([26:31]):

   Dan Holliday: "There was a $500 reward for recovering the jewelry. And it's going to a bank account for you."

   The culmination of Holliday's efforts leads to justice for John Moran and a heartfelt reward for Johnny.

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Climax and Resolution

The narrative reaches its zenith as Holliday orchestrates a strategic confrontation at the dance hall. Utilizing his skills as a writer, Holliday turns the situation to his advantage, leading to the apprehension of District Attorney Clark and Joe Coakley. The fraudulent setup is exposed, clearing John Moran's name and restoring his freedom.

In the aftermath, Holliday not only ensures justice is served but also fosters a heartfelt bond with Johnny Moran. The young boy's belief in his father's innocence and Holliday's dedication to uncovering the truth exemplify the episode's central themes of integrity and hope.

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Character Development

Throughout "Extra Extra," Dan Holliday evolves from a seasoned detective to a mentor figure for Johnny Moran. His interactions reveal a blend of professionalism and genuine care, particularly evident when he reassures Johnny after the hit-and-run incident:

Dan Holliday: "If your father's innocent they'll let him go." ([09:50])

Meanwhile, Johnny grows from a concerned child into a key ally, demonstrating bravery and loyalty. The transformation of Johnny from a newspaper seller to a pivotal figure in resolving the case highlights the episode's emphasis on the impact of steadfast belief and collaboration.

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Conclusion

"Extra Extra" masterfully weaves a tale of mystery, deception, and redemption, anchored by Alan Ladd's compelling portrayal of Dan Holliday. The episode not only entertains but also imparts enduring lessons on the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of justice. For listeners, it offers a nostalgic yet timeless narrative that captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio storytelling.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dan Holliday on Writing Fiction ([01:05]):

  "Why did you ever decide to write fiction for a living? You know you could have gone into something interesting like being a truck driver with the open road in front of you and a motorcycle cop in back."

• Johnny Moran's Assurance ([05:25]):

  "He didn't do it Mr. Holliday. That's why I came to see you."

• Dan Holliday on the Case ([07:01]):

  "The day story in the paper makes it look like they caught John Moran cold. You don't find stolen jewelry in a man's apartment if he didn't do the stealing."

• District Attorney Clark's Reluctance ([07:32]):

  "The district attorney will see you now, Mr. Holliday."

• Climactic Declaration ([25:10]):

  "This is the last chapter to a story I was afraid might have an unhappy ending."

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Final Thoughts

"Box 13" with Dan Holliday offers a rich tapestry of suspense and emotional depth, characteristic of Harold's Old Time Radio’s celebrated storytelling. By skillfully balancing character development with an intricate plot, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of radio dramas. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, "Extra Extra" promises an engaging and memorable listening experience.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Announcer]

Box 13 with the star of Paramount Pictures, Alan Ladd as dan Holliday.

[Susie]

Box 13. Box 13. Box 13. Box 13. Box 13.

[Dan Holliday]

He leaned over the shining halo of her blond hair reflected in the soft glow of the new moon. Oh no, no, no, not that. Holiday, my boy, why did you ever decide to write fiction for a living? You know you could have gone into something interesting like being a truck driver with the open road in front of you and a motorcycle cop in back. Hey Susie, where you been?

[Johnny Moran]

Don't you remember Mr. Holiday? I went down to start times office.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, oh, so you did. Tell me, what's new in box 13?

[Announcer]

Box 13. Starring Alan Ladd as Dan Holiday. Now for box 13. Starring Alan Ladd As Dan Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Well, what now Mr. Holliday? What's new in box 13? Yesterday a man wanted to sell me a horse for $1,000 and a ranch to go around the horse for 25 times that much. The day before, my ad for adventure brought me a reply from a golf professional who simply wanted to drive golf balls off the tip of my nose.

[Johnny Moran]

Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, is that Susie?

[Johnny Moran]

I said that when a nice young man like you runs an ad, he should get a whole box full of answers.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh well thank you Susie.

[Johnny Moran]

He should get bushel baskets full.

[Dan Holliday]

Well, thanks again.

[Johnny Moran]

The place should be loaded with letters.

[Dan Holliday]

All right, all right. Now what did I get?

[Johnny Moran]

One postcard. And from a kid at that.

[Dan Holliday]

A kid? You mean a child?

[Johnny Moran]

Sure.

[Susie]

Uh huh.

[Dan Holliday]

Here, let me see it. A postcard from a youngster. It's probably a gag. Some small girl selling 10 cent packages of flower seeds for 50 cents. Sell 5,000 packages and she gets absolutely free a St. Bernard dog. Well, let's see what really is on this postcard I wrote to you, Kara, box 13, because I thought you wanted it that way. I gotta see you right away on a very important matter. I am still doing business at the old stand. Signed Johnny Moran. Johnny Moran? Why he's a little boy who sells newspapers on the corner. Hey Susie, get Johnny Moran up here right away.

[Johnny Moran]

I can't do that Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Why can't you do it?

[Johnny Moran]

Cause he's here already.

Hello Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh Johnny. How are you my boy? Why didn't you just come up and see me instead of writing a postcard first?

[Johnny Moran]

Well I like to do things. Sort of business like. Besides, it was fun to answer an ad for Adventure Wanted. Would you really do anything Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday]

Sit down Johnny and tell me what your trouble is.

[Johnny Moran]

Well I kind of wanted to see you alone, sort of private like.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh that man to man stuff, huh?

[Johnny Moran]

Yeah, that's it.

[Dan Holliday]

Well how would you like to talk?

[Johnny Moran]

Well I thought maybe you'd come down to the corner with me. I'll buy you a drink.

[Dan Holliday]

A drink? You interest me strangely Johnny. Come on, let's go.

[Johnny Moran]

Okay.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh Susie, you'll excuse us, won't you?

[Johnny Moran]

Well I don't know. You better be careful Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Careful.

[Johnny Moran]

I don't want Johnny teaching you bad habits.

[Dan Holliday]

Johnny Moran is a very nice boy. He can't be more than 12, but he certainly seems to know his way around. Yes Holliday, if you were ordering a small boy this is just the model you would choose. But this drinking business.

[Johnny Moran]

I'm worried about you Mr. Holliday. You sure that lemon Coke is enough?

[Dan Holliday]

Lemon cokes are always enough for me Johnny. Especially when I spike them with an ice cube. Say, how's your banana split?

[Johnny Moran]

Well this one's got a little too much chocolate. I like the last one better.

[Dan Holliday]

Better finish it my boy. You want to talk business, remember?

[Johnny Moran]

Oh yeah. Well I thought you might have read about it in the newspapers. Of course you could have missed it. It was way back on page five.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh it was on page five.

[Johnny Moran]

Here, I got a clip into the story. Read it.

[Dan Holliday]

Police announced they had recovered a portion of the jewelry stolen in last Tuesday's raid on Maury Jewelry Company. Held under suspicion of grand theft is John Moran. John Moran, Johnny, that's your father?

[Johnny Moran]

Yes. And he didn't do it Mr. Holliday. I know he didn't.

[Dan Holliday]

Just a second. A part of the loot was found in Moran's apartment.

[Johnny Moran]

I don't care what they put in the newspapers Mr. Holliday. He didn't do it. That's why I came to see you.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, what about your mother Johnny?

[Johnny Moran]

Oh, she died when I was a baby cop and I live together. But he didn't do it Mr. Holliday. Only they won't believe me.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, you've been down to the police?

[Johnny Moran]

Sure, I went there right away. I even offered him my 18 bucks for bail. You know what?

[Dan Holliday]

What?

[Johnny Moran]

The old DA just patted me on the head and told me to go home. I'll bet you could go down and talk to that district attorney and make him let my father out. You can do anything.

[Dan Holliday]

Well not quite anything, Johnny.

[Johnny Moran]

Yeah, but this would be easy for a guy like you. Besides, you're not afraid of anything. Not even a policeman.

[Dan Holliday]

Well that's very flattering Johnny, but I don't know what I can do.

[Johnny Moran]

Oh you'll think of something Mr. Holliday. You're a writer, you're smart.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh but listen my boy, I'll bet.

[Johnny Moran]

You get my father out of jail in time for dinner.

[Dan Holliday]

Okay Holliday. The boy says you can get his father out of jail in time for dinner. But what? Day story in the paper makes it look like they caught John Moran cold. You don't find stolen jewelry in a man's apartment if he didn't do the stealing. But there's a small boy waiting. Waiting with all the faith in the world. So. Holliday, do something.

[District Attorney Clark]

The district attorney will see you now, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh thanks.

[District Attorney Clark]

Holiday. Haven't seen you for a long time.

[Dan Holliday]

Yeah I know. I've been pretty busy.

[District Attorney Clark]

Busy huh? Well then what brings a promising young author down to City Hall?

[Dan Holliday]

Because he's a promising young author who made a promise and I hope he didn't make a mistake.

[District Attorney Clark]

What in the world are you talking about?

[Dan Holliday]

About a man named John Moran. You've got him locked up in your nice new jail.

[District Attorney Clark]

Yes, and from what we've got on him, he's going to stay there for a while.

[Dan Holliday]

His son thinks Moran is innocent.

[District Attorney Clark]

Clark, I feel sorry for that boy. He came down, talked to me, but what could I do for him?

[Dan Holliday]

You've got the goods on Moran then?

[District Attorney Clark]

Absolutely. The police found some of the stolen stuff in his apartment.

[Dan Holliday]

What's Moran's story?

[District Attorney Clark]

A woman who works in the same building with Moran asked him to stop in at the jewelry store and pick up her watch. While he was there, this stick up artist walked in and held up the place.

[Dan Holliday]

And that makes Moran guilty.

[District Attorney Clark]

Don't be in a hurry. The stick up artist used him as a shield when he beat it. Moran claims the man forced him to drive the getaway car out into the country.

[Dan Holliday]

Well that still doesn't make him guilty. I think you've got the wrong person.

[District Attorney Clark]

This is where Moran's story went wrong. He walked into police headquarters and told it, but it sounded too good to be true. They detained him while a detective went over and searched his apartment. Oh the detective found part of the loot. Moran couldn't explain where it came from. Well the wire office. It looks like he pulled a clever gag. We think he's in with the hold up men.

[Dan Holliday]

What about the woman? The one who sent Moran after the watch.

[District Attorney Clark]

Grace Willard. We don't have a thing on her. She's in the clear.

[Dan Holliday]

I see.

[District Attorney Clark]

So Holiday, you better forget about playing Don Quixote. Day of fighting windmills is over. Go home. Forget about Johnny Moran.

[Dan Holliday]

Sure Holliday, just forget all about John Moran. Write finita the story and take it out of the typewriter. But how are you going to write the dialogue for a man who has to tell a small boy that his father hasn't got a chance? And describe the look in that boy's eyes.

[Johnny Moran]

I don't care what that old district attorney said, my father isn't a crook.

[Dan Holliday]

And your father should have been able to explain the stolen jewelry they found at your place.

[Johnny Moran]

I'll bet he could too. They just wouldn't listen to him.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh now Johnny, if your father's innocent they'll let him go.

[Johnny Moran]

So you won't help me either.

[Dan Holliday]

But I'm trying my boy. What else can I do?

[Johnny Moran]

Oh nothing I guess. See you later Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh Johnny, listen to me.

[Johnny Moran]

I'm kind of busy right now. I gotta earn a lot of dough I guess Johnny. Cause lawyers come pretty expensive I heard.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh look kid, you better go home.

[Johnny Moran]

Mr. Holliday, I should have handled it personally in the first place.

[Dan Holliday]

Small boys have that knack don't they? They can just vanish into thin air when they want to. You're quite a character Holliday. Go home and write this on your typewriter. Write about the small boy who wanted you to get his father out of jail and you didn't quite make the grade.

[Johnny Moran]

Hello Mr. Holliday? This is Johnny. I'm up at the place where we live. Yeah Johnny, there's something funny going on.

[Dan Holliday]

What are you talking about?

[Johnny Moran]

I'm afraid to go into our place. There's a man in there.

[Dan Holliday]

You know him?

[Johnny Moran]

He's going through the place though. He's looking for something.

[Dan Holliday]

Johnny listen. Run outside, find a policeman. I'll be right over.

[Johnny Moran]

I gotta get out of here.

[Dan Holliday]

Johnny, do what I said.

[Johnny Moran]

Just walked out the door. He saw me.

[Dan Holliday]

Get over to Moran's place fast. Holiday, you've got no time for fooling. It's not outside. Maybe he's upstairs. Oh Johnny, Johnny. Where could that boy have Gone to Grace Willard, the woman who sent Moran up to the watch. If she knows Moran, she knows his boy.

[Susie]

Yes?

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, Miss Willard.

[Susie]

Yes?

[Dan Holliday]

Well, I'm Dan Holliday. Would you know where little Johnny Moran is?

[Susie]

Come in. Now, what's this about Johnny?

[Dan Holliday]

Well, he phoned me a few minutes ago from his place. There was a man going through it. He saw Johnny making the call.

[Susie]

Johnny's disappeared?

[Dan Holliday]

Yes.

[Susie]

You phoned the police? Do you think he's been hurt?

[Dan Holliday]

Well, the police knew nothing about it. I don't know what happened to the boy. That's why I came over here. I figured that if you knew his father, you knew Johnny.

[Susie]

You know, poor Mr. Moran. I feel so badly about him. You know, if I hadn't asked him to get my watch, this never would have happened.

[Dan Holliday]

But that doesn't make it your fault, Ms. Willard.

[Susie]

I feel terrible about it just the same. And now Johnny disappearing.

[Dan Holliday]

He hasn't been here at all?

[Susie]

No. Let me think of it. Oh, by the way, I was just having some coffee. Would you care to join me?

[Dan Holliday]

Grace Willard is a very nice person. Really worried about the boy. Perhaps he'll come back with an idea.

[Susie]

Here's your coffee, Mr. Holliday. Now we'll talk.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, thanks.

[Susie]

Did Johnny recognize the man?

[Dan Holliday]

No, he didn't have time to say.

[Susie]

Well, perhaps he found a policeman on the street. He might have gone back to the house.

[Dan Holliday]

Well, maybe I'd have called back.

[Susie]

Johnny's a cute little fellow. Johnny has a father who's in jail. Johnny's quite concerned about his father and would like to set him free.

[Dan Holliday]

Grace Willard is stalling, Holiday, waiting for something.

[Susie]

I don't know if Johnny will get his wish or not. You see, his father looks very guilty to the police.

[Dan Holliday]

Holliday, you idiot. That coffee was doped. The oldest gag in the world and you swallowed it.

[Susie]

You look sleepy, Mr. Holliday. Are you feeling all right?

[Dan Holliday]

She looks like a reflection in one of those amusement parks mirrors. She's. She's long and skinny. No, no, she's short. Short and fat. Holiday. Holiday, get up on your feet.

[Susie]

How do you feel, Mr. Holliday? Are you all right?

[Grace Willard]

Anson?

[Dan Holliday]

Get on your feet. I said.

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[Dan Holliday]

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[Announcer]

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[Dan Holliday]

Auto Parts. Walk Holiday. Walk. Walk this thing off before it's too late.

[Susie]

You look very tired, Mr. Holliday. Let me get you a pillow.

[Dan Holliday]

Come on. Come on Holliday. One big pillow.

[Susie]

How do you feel, Mr. Holliday?

[Dan Holliday]

I, I, I can't. Can't make it.

[Announcer]

You are listening to box 13, starring Alan Ladd as Dan Holiday. Box 13, starring Alan Ladd as Dan Holiday.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, take it easy, Holiday. Take it easy. Turn slowly now. Maybe your head still is connected to the top of your neck. That's better. Better. What am I? Where am I? An alley. Oh, fine. Dan Holiday, author. Found lying in an alley between yesterday's newspapers and tomorrow's trash. What you need right this minute is a quick change, a fast bath and a little with a district attorney.

[District Attorney Clark]

I've got a man going up to the Willard woman's place right this minute, Holiday.

[Dan Holliday]

Thanks, Clark.

[District Attorney Clark]

This ties her up with the Moran case, sure.

[Dan Holliday]

Else why would she give me knockout drops and have me dumped in an alley?

[District Attorney Clark]

I'll bet anything she's disappeared. But why just knock you out? Why not dispose of you permanently?

[Dan Holliday]

I don't know. Unless she was trying to kill time. Enough time to get something done.

[District Attorney Clark]

Well, you can't do anything now. If she's disappeared, she won't stay lost for long. My men will bring her in.

[Dan Holliday]

Don't let her give him any coffee. She'll be out again.

[District Attorney Clark]

Pardon me. District Attorney's office, Clark speaking. Ash. Where? When? How is he?

[Dan Holliday]

Thanks. I'll see you later, Clark. I want to go over and see Johnny Moran.

[District Attorney Clark]

I don't think you'll find him at home, Holiday.

[Dan Holliday]

Why not?

[District Attorney Clark]

That was a hospital who just called. Johnny Moran was brought in a while ago. The victim of a hit and run driver.

[Dan Holliday]

And on top of that phone call about Johnny Moran is another one, Grace Willard. Checked out of the Wharton Hotel an hour ago. So Mr. Holliday, they got you out of the way long enough to get to little Johnny. A small boy in a hospital. Me with an aching head and an aching feeling that something is very, very wrong. I think this is it. Room 809. Johnny.

[Johnny Moran]

Hello, Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

How do you feel, kid?

[Johnny Moran]

Kind of banged up.

[Dan Holliday]

Yeah, I know. The nurse said you want to do too much talking, so just let me ask a couple of questions.

[Johnny Moran]

It wasn't an accident, Mr. Holliday. He did it on purpose.

[Dan Holliday]

You sure about that, Johnny?

[Johnny Moran]

Yeah. I was walking down a side street. He had to swing way over to the wrong side to hit me.

[Dan Holliday]

Johnny, did he look like the same man who was in your place?

[Johnny Moran]

I didn't get a good look at him. He was bent down way behind the wheel.

[Dan Holliday]

Well, could you give me just a hint? Was he tall, short, thin, fat?

[Johnny Moran]

All I know is yes.

[Dan Holliday]

Johnny, Johnny, Johnny passed out and won't be permitted to talk for a while. Well that puts it up to you. Holiday. Come on, you're an author. You write hundreds of situations like this one. Think the boarding house where Johnny lives. Maybe the landlady saw the man. I certainly hope so.

[Grace Willard]

Johnny Moran? Yes, I saw him come home, but it was quite some time ago.

[Dan Holliday]

Did you see him leave?

[Grace Willard]

Yes, he went upstairs. I heard him on the telephone. Then he came running down.

[Dan Holliday]

Who was the man chasing him?

[Grace Willard]

Chasing him? There was no one chasing him.

[Dan Holliday]

Are you sure of that?

[Susie]

Of course.

[Grace Willard]

I've been here all the time.

[Susie]

Poor little fella.

[Grace Willard]

Don't know what's going to happen to him, what with his father and all.

[Dan Holliday]

This doesn't make sense.

[Grace Willard]

I beg your pardon?

[Dan Holliday]

Oh nothing. You see Johnny called me. Told me there was a strange man in his place. The man saw him, he hung up the phone and disappeared.

[Grace Willard]

But I saw no man.

[Dan Holliday]

Are you sure?

[Grace Willard]

Only Joe Coakley. But he's one of my rumors, that is, he was.

[Dan Holliday]

Was?

[Grace Willard]

When did he move today? Just after Johnny left.

[Dan Holliday]

Was he upstairs while Johnny was there?

[Grace Willard]

Why yes. Yes he was.

[Dan Holliday]

Was he a friend of John Moran's?

[Grace Willard]

Oh no, no, he never spoke to anyone. Stayed in his room all day and went out at night.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, one of those night flyers, huh? Could I see the room he occupied? This is Coakley's room, but it's empty. Well Holliday, it looks like you're on the wrong track. Track? Or are you a stub from a dance hall ticket? I'd better talk to Johnny about this. Johnny, the man who came out of your room, was he about my height? Did he have grayish hair? Did he wear a brown suit?

[Johnny Moran]

Yeah. Yeah, that's the man. Mr. Holliday.

[Dan Holliday]

How come you never saw him before? He lived right across the hall from you.

[Johnny Moran]

That guy, he only went out at night after I was in bed.

[Dan Holliday]

Well, I'll see you later, Johnny.

[Johnny Moran]

Hey, where you going tonight?

[Dan Holliday]

I'm going dancing. This is a very nice place, holiday. Admission, 60 cents, which includes an evening of dancing. And from the looks of the customers, they're trying to get their money's worth.

[Johnny Moran]

Like to dance, fella?

[Dan Holliday]

Who, me?

[Johnny Moran]

You ain't no twins, are you?

[Dan Holliday]

I'm sorry. I'm afraid I'm a very bad dancer.

[Johnny Moran]

Oh, you let me be the judge of that.

[Grace Willard]

Come on, kid.

[Johnny Moran]

You look good to me.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, wait a second. Say, isn't that Joe Coakley over there? Oh, you know Joe? Yeah, and the girl with him?

[Grace Willard]

That's his girlfriend, Grace Willett.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, thanks. I'll see you later.

[Johnny Moran]

Hey, where you going?

[Dan Holliday]

This is it, Holliday only. What are you going to do? They're leaving. And if you stop to make a phone call, you lose them. And I wouldn't like to lose that man. He's the one who hits small boys with big automobiles. They're going into that apartment house. This begins to look like the final chapter. Now to make a fast telephone call to an old friend. Then better to get to the payoff. This is a very nice door. You can hear quite distinctly through it. Well, Holiday, here's where you cease to be a wallflower and become the life of the party.

[Susie]

Joe, it's Holiday.

[District Attorney Clark]

Put up your hands, fella.

[Dan Holliday]

Sure, sure.

[District Attorney Clark]

Close that door, Grace.

[Dan Holliday]

Well, here we are, aren't we?

[Susie]

I knew we'd find us. Joe. What are we going to do?

[District Attorney Clark]

You finish packing that junk.

[Dan Holliday]

We'll figure out something.

[Johnny Moran]

We?

[Susie]

We can't let him stay alive.

[District Attorney Clark]

Finish the packing, I said.

[Susie]

Too bad I didn't use poison in that coffee I gave him.

[Dan Holliday]

Quiet. I noticed you were packing. Going away someplace?

[District Attorney Clark]

What do you think? And get away from that bag, Holiday.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, that's the stuff that was stolen from the store, huh?

[District Attorney Clark]

None of your business.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, going away together, you and Ms. Willard?

[District Attorney Clark]

Maybe.

[Dan Holliday]

Mm. You pull that go down and pick up my watch routine in a lot of cities, huh, Joe?

[Susie]

Make him be quiet. Joe.

[Dan Holliday]

Hey, Joe, who was the girl who worked with you before you met Grace? You know, the one who lived in Cleveland. Or was it Chicago? I always forget. Come on, Joe. What happened to her?

[District Attorney Clark]

Shut up, you.

[Dan Holliday]

What happened to her, Joe? Or the girl before?

[Susie]

How do you know there was another girl, holiday?

[Dan Holliday]

Well, Ms. Willard, you don't think you're the only one, do you? You're crazy. Yeah. Ask him where he was last night. Don't pay any attention to him, Grace. He wasn't with you know where he was.

[Susie]

How do you know he wasn't with me?

[Dan Holliday]

This stub of a dance hall ticket I found in the other room. It calls for only one admission.

[District Attorney Clark]

You shut up. I say.

[Susie]

Just a minute, Joe. Were you down there last night? Were you dancing with that blonde again?

[District Attorney Clark]

Suppose I was.

[Dan Holliday]

So what?

[Susie]

You've got a lot of nerve. You have me set up this whole deal. Had me find John Moran to play sucker for us. Had me frame the business of picking up my watch. I time it out perfect for you. What do you do? You go dancing with a blonde.

[District Attorney Clark]

Grace, be quiet. This fella's up to something.

[Dan Holliday]

Me? Now what would I be up to?

[Susie]

What about that other girl he talked about? What happened to her?

[Dan Holliday]

Joe, why don't you tell her?

[District Attorney Clark]

Joe, cut it out, will you?

[Susie]

Did she plant stolen jewelry in a sucker's room like I did in Marant?

[Dan Holliday]

Grace, listen.

[Susie]

Yeah, I'm listening. Go on, explain.

[District Attorney Clark]

Holliday, where you going?

[Dan Holliday]

Just opening the door. You see, I'd like the District Attorney to hear the rest of your explanation, too. Well, this is the last chapter to a story I was afraid might have an unhappy ending. But Johnny Moran's father is free. The District attorney has Grace Willard, Joe Coakley and the stolen jewelry. And Johnny. Hmm. Johnny is out of the hospital, Mr. Holliday. What did you say, Johnny?

[Johnny Moran]

I said you might have been killed going up to the apartment like that.

[Dan Holliday]

No, I was safe for the DA Just outside the door.

[Johnny Moran]

Gosh. And you figured it all out by yourself?

[Dan Holliday]

No. You helped too, when you telephoned me. And I hate to mention this, kid, but did you bring the $18 with you?

[Johnny Moran]

Sure I did. I pay off, you know. Here.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, thanks, kid. I was just a little worried I.

[Johnny Moran]

Was going to pay before Mr. Holliday, but I didn't think you needed money that bad.

[Dan Holliday]

I needed it to put with this check here. There was a $500 reward for recovering the jewelry. And it's going to a bank account for you.

[Johnny Moran]

$500. Gee, gosh, I guess I'm rich.

[Dan Holliday]

Johnny, what are you gonna do with all that money?

[Johnny Moran]

Well, the first thing I'm gonna do is take you out and buy you a drink. How about An Idiot's Delight?

[Dan Holliday]

A what?

[Johnny Moran]

Idiot's Delight. It's got a pint of ice cream, three bananas, some oranges and seven flavors.

[Dan Holliday]

Oh, Johnny, I. I don't know.

[Johnny Moran]

I. Mr. Holliday, I just heard that Johnny got out of the house. Oh, there you are, Johnny. How do you feel?

I feel swell, Susie. I just invited Mr. Holliday out to have a drink.

He can't go out, Johnny. He's got some very important work to do.

Oh, gee whiz.

[Dan Holliday]

Thanks a lot, Susie.

[Johnny Moran]

Thanks. What are you thanking me for?

[Dan Holliday]

You don't know it, but you just saved me from a horrible fate.

[Announcer]

Next week, same time, Alan Ladd stars as Dan Holliday in box 13. Alan Ladd appears through the courtesy of Paramount Pictures and may currently be seen in wild harvest. Box 13 is written and directed by Ted Hettegger. The part of Susie is played by Sylvia Picker. Original music was composed and conducted by Rudy Schrager. This is a Mayfair production.

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[Dan Holliday]

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