Danger Doctor Danfield 46-09-15 ep05 Nola Jerrolds Wants to Kill Her Husband

Summary

Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Danger Doctor Danfield 46-09-15 ep05 Nola Jerrolds Wants to Kill Her Husband
Release Date: August 9, 2025

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Introduction

The episode "Nola Jerrolds Wants to Kill Her Husband" unfolds in the classic style of the Golden Age of Radio, immersing listeners in a gripping tale of deceit, suspicion, and psychological intrigue. Hosted by Dr. Danfield, a renowned authority on crime psychology, the story begins aboard a train journey to Cranston, a fashionable resort town in upper New York State. Alongside Dr. Danfield is his attentive young secretary, Rusty Fairfax, and the central figure of the episode, Nola Gerald.

Notable Quote:
Nola Gerald: "Wake up, Dan. It's 8:30. We're almost in Cranston." [00:28]

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Arrival in Cranston and Initial Discussions

As the train nears Cranston, Nola Gerald expresses her anxiety about Dr. Danfield's involvement in her husband's murder case. She reveals her fear of being accused of killing Victor Gerald, her husband, amidst her history of amnesia spells. Dr. Danfield, while reassuring, hints at the complexity of the case, suggesting that there's more beneath the surface than typical domestic disputes.

Notable Quote:
Nola Gerald: "This time there is. Dan. I can't understand your interest in a woman who's afraid she's going to shoot her own husband." [00:47]

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Investigation Begins

Upon arriving at Victor Gerald's residence, Dr. Danfield delves into the details of the case. Victor was found dead with a bullet hole in the back of his head, and the murder weapon remains undiscovered. Nola's amnesia during the time of the murder provides a convenient alibi for the actual perpetrator to frame her. Dr. Danfield outlines his theory, mentioning a list of four suspects with motives to murder Victor Gerald, aiming to identify the murderer swiftly.

Notable Quote:
Dr. Danfield: "I have a theory. I also have a list and description of four people who Chief Ulrich believes had good motives to murder Victor Gerald." [02:55]

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The Summer House Shooting Incident

A pivotal flashback reveals a prior incident at the summer house three weeks earlier, where tensions between Victor, Nola, and Peter Wade culminated in a heated confrontation. Peter Wade admits to firing a shot during this altercation, which was thwarted by Avery Maxwell. This incident becomes a critical piece of evidence, suggesting premeditation and concealed motives among the household members.

Notable Quote:
Peter Wade: "Well, Nola and I had agreed to meet in the summer house shortly after dark. Nola arrived first. She didn't know that Victor knew of our plans and had gone there ahead of us." [08:27]

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Unraveling Motives and Alibis

Dr. Danfield meticulously examines the relationships and past events surrounding Victor Gerald's life. He scrutinizes Nola's diary entries, revealing gaps and inconsistencies that suggest deliberate manipulation of her amnesia claims. The investigation highlights the strained marriage, financial tensions, and clandestine relationships that create a web of suspicion among the characters.

Notable Quote:
Nola Gerald: "You just wait, you'll see." [15:38]
Dr. Danfield: "It was you who remembered that Nola Gerald kept reminding everyone that it might have been she who shot her husband." [15:55]

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The Climactic Confrontation

Employing psychological strategies, Dr. Danfield orchestrates a scenario to expose the murderer. By leveraging the staged events in the summer house and the hidden bullet evidence, he entraps Peter Wade, revealing his direct involvement in the murder plot. The tension peaks as Wade is apprehended, exposed as the mastermind behind the deceitful framing of Nola Gerald.

Notable Quote:
Dr. Danfield: "The murderer is going to do it for us." [11:35]
Peter Wade: "Take your hands off me. You're not gonna put your handcuffs on me." [22:50]

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Conclusion and Resolution

In the aftermath, Dr. Danfield elucidates the intricacies of the case, explaining how Nola and Peter Wade meticulously planned Victor Gerald's murder to obscure their motives. He reveals that their strategy was to exploit Nola's supposed amnesia, ensuring that even if she committed the act subconsciously, she would remain unaccountable. The episode concludes with the resolution of the murder case, restoring peace to the household and underscoring Dr. Danfield's prowess in unraveling complex psychological manipulations.

Notable Quote:
Dr. Danfield: "Nola, Gerald and Peter Wade had planned the murder of Nola's husband very carefully." [23:31]
Nola Gerald: "I'll say it is." [23:10]

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Key Takeaways

• Complex Character Dynamics: The episode masterfully portrays the intricate relationships and hidden motives among the characters, highlighting how personal vendettas and financial stress can lead to drastic actions.

• Psychological Depth: Dr. Danfield's expertise in crime psychology is pivotal in dissecting the layers of deception, showcasing the importance of understanding human behavior in solving crimes.

• Classic Radio Drama Elements: Emulating the charm of old-time radio, the episode leverages suspenseful dialogue, strategic revelations, and a compelling narrative structure to engage listeners fully.

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Final Thoughts:
"Danger Doctor Danfield" captivates with its blend of suspense, psychological insight, and classic storytelling. Through meticulous investigation and keen observation, Dr. Danfield not only solves the mystery but also delves deep into the human psyche, making this episode a standout in Harold's Old Time Radio series.

Transcript

[Dr. Danfield]

Danger.

[Michael Dunn]

Dr. Danfield. As our story opens, we find Dr. Danfield, authority on crime psychology, and his pretty young secretary, Rusty Fairfax, on a train which is heading toward the fashionable resort town of Cranston in upper New York State.

[Nola Gerald]

Wake up, Dan. It's 8:30. We're almost in Cranston.

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, hello Rusty.

[Michael Dunn]

Did you have a nice sleep?

[Nola Gerald]

How could anyone sleep in these club chairs? I didn't even try. I've been worrying.

[Dr. Danfield]

Worrying? Worrying. Worrying about what?

[Nola Gerald]

You.

[Dr. Danfield]

Me? Come, come, my dear. You know there's no need to worry about me.

[Nola Gerald]

This time there is. Dan. I can't understand your interest in a woman who's afraid she's going to shoot her own husband. There are lots of women who shoot their husbands every day.

[Dr. Danfield]

It isn't quite as common as that, Rusty. But I agree with your views, generally speaking. Here, I'll get our suitcases down then.

[Nola Gerald]

Why this sudden departure from New York? Following your telephone call with Nola Gerald.

[Dr. Danfield]

There'S an unusual aspect of the case I neglected to mention to you. There. Nola Gerald suffers frequently from spells of amnesia.

[Nola Gerald]

What's that unusual? A lot of women do.

[Dr. Danfield]

It will be unusual if Victor Gerald, Nola's husband, is one day found dead and his wife is accused of murdering him.

[Nola Gerald]

That seems pretty far fetched.

[Dr. Danfield]

Here we are. Let's go. It isn't far fetched at all, Rusty. Nola Gerald admits a desire to kill her husband. And she also admits being a victim of amnesia.

[Nola Gerald]

So what?

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, suddenly Victor Gerald is murdered. Nola can't remember where she was at the time. Now the real murderer takes advantage of the opportunity to pin the crime on Nola. Well, Cranston seems to be nothing more than a whistle stop.

[Nola Gerald]

That sounds like a situation right out of a detective story. Before you go any further, let me ask you some questions.

[Dr. Danfield]

Of course. Here. Let's see if we can find a kid.

[Nola Gerald]

What if Victor Gerald isn't found murdered? What if Nola Gerald does remember where she. What if there isn't any real murderer who tries to pin the crime on her?

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, I see what you mean, Rusty. In other words, if Victor isn't found murdered, then there can't be a murderer. I agree. However, I have some news for you, Rusty.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh Yes?

[Dr. Danfield]

Victor Gerald was found dead three days ago. Here we are.

[Michael Dunn]

Thanks.

[Dr. Danfield]

You folks drive you anywhere in town for a dollar? That's fair enough. Nothing. Rusty, here's your dialogue. Driver, take us to the Victor Gerald home, will you?

[Michael Dunn]

Okay.

[Peter Wade]

Mr. Dan.

[Nola Gerald]

Was Victor Gerald shot?

[Dr. Danfield]

Yes, yes. There was a bullet hole in the Back of his head. The gun with which he was shot has not yet been found.

[Nola Gerald]

Why didn't you tell me?

[Dr. Danfield]

Nola Gerald, his wife, was suffering from an attack of amnesia at the time. She can't remember where she was. She has no witnesses to prove it wasn't she who committed the crime.

[Nola Gerald]

Well, for goodness sake. And all the time I thought we were.

[Dr. Danfield]

The police chief Walt Ulrich called this morning and asked if I'd come up and do what I could. Chief Ulrich is a friend who kept notice. Naturally, I said I would.

[Nola Gerald]

But why?

[Dr. Danfield]

For several reasons, Rusty. First, before Victor Joe was found murdered, Nola called me and told her side of the story. Second, since Chief Ulrich is a friend of Captain Otis, I could hardly turn down his request.

[Nola Gerald]

And what's the third reason?

[Dr. Danfield]

Curiosity, my dear. I have a theory. I also have a list and description of four people who Chief Ulrich believes had good motives to murder Victor Gerald. Now, if my theory is correct, I'll be able to identify the murderer within an hour after we arrive. In a moment, we'll return for the.

[Michael Dunn]

Second act of danger, Dr. Danfield.

[Dr. Danfield]

But first.

[Michael Dunn]

Now back to Michael Dunn for the second act of.

[Dr. Danfield]

Danger, Dr. Danfield.

[Peter Wade]

Here's Avery now. Where in the deuce have you been?

[Michael Dunn]

Oh, don't get excited, Peter. I have been trying to run away.

[Dr. Danfield]

Look, there's a car coming down the road.

[Michael Dunn]

Nothing to worry about. Probably just the station taxi.

[Nola Gerald]

More than likely it's that Danfield person. The detective that Chief Erlich said he was sending up. Oh, I hope so, Peggy. I. I don't know how much more of this I can stand.

[Peter Wade]

There, darling. It can't last much longer. I'm gonna have another talk with Ulrich tomorrow. It's cruel to expose you to this ordeal.

[Nola Gerald]

I don't see that it's any more cruel for Nola than it is for Avery and me. Don't get the idea we're enjoying being held prisoners here. Well, a lot of detectives try to pin a murder charge on us.

[Peter Wade]

If you didn't kill Victor, Peggy, there's no need for you to be concerned.

[Michael Dunn]

That goes for you too, Pete. As a matter of fact, it goes for all of us. The one who acts the most worried will probably turn out to be the murderer.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, that's not fair, Avery. All of you have an alibi. You've had plenty of chance to establish that alibi. Three days, in fact. What about me? I. I don't even know where I was. It might have been I who.

[Peter Wade]

Oh, of course it wasn't you, darling. It's absurd even to think such a thing.

[Michael Dunn]

What's absurd about it? To me it makes sense.

[Nola Gerald]

If my opinion means anything, it makes sense to me too. Nola was always saying she hated Vic enough to kill him. Her subconscious mind must have reacted.

[Peter Wade]

That's enough, Peg. What are you trying to do, cover up your own guilt?

[Nola Gerald]

My guilt? Come, Peter. You must be pretty desperate for something to say to make a remark like that.

[Peter Wade]

Really? And why do you think Chief Ulrich ordered you to stay here unless he thinks you might be guilty?

[Michael Dunn]

I've been wondering about that. There's only one answer. You must have told him about the trouble Vic and I had been having.

[Peter Wade]

Well, certainly I did. I'd be a fool to deny knowledge of it. Ulrich knew that you and Victor were considering dissolving your partnership. And he knew that you, Avery, would be ruined financially if this came about.

[Michael Dunn]

Fine friend you turned out to be. I suppose you told him also that Peg and I were the types of people who would commit murder to prevent financial ruin.

[Peter Wade]

No, Ulrich figured that out for himself. Which reminds me, who told him about the shooting incident down in the summer house?

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, I did, Peter.

[Peter Wade]

Nola, Why?

[Nola Gerald]

I had to, darling. He kept questioning me. I knew he'd find out from either Peg or Avery. They both saw what happened that night. I had to tell him.

[Dr. Danfield]

This is rich. It really is.

[Nola Gerald]

For heaven's sake, Avery, what's so funny?

[Michael Dunn]

I was just wondering what this guy Danfield will say when he finds out what he stepped into here are the four of us, all trying to pin this murder onto the others. All of us have motives. All of us had the opportunity. I'm telling you, the guy will have to be a wizard if he puts his finger on the guilty party.

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, Maxwell, as soon as Ms. Fairfax completes our notes. Oh, here she is now. Come in. Ms. Fairfax, this is Mr. And Mrs. Avery Maxwell.

[Nola Gerald]

How do you do?

[Dr. Danfield]

Have you completed Your notes, Ms. Fairfax?

[Nola Gerald]

Yes, I've written everything down.

[Dr. Danfield]

Fine. Now then. Oh, there are other two suspects.

[Peter Wade]

Look here, Danfield, must you refer to us as suspects? After all, it's rather cold blooded.

[Dr. Danfield]

Murder is even more cold blooded, Wade. Are you feeling better, Mrs. Darrell?

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, yes, yes, I'm quite all right now, thank you.

[Dr. Danfield]

Good. Oh, by the way, I want you to meet my secretary, Mr. Wade and Mrs. Gerald. Ms. Fairfax.

[Nola Gerald]

How do you do?

[Dr. Danfield]

Now then, let's proceed, Mrs. Gerald. Frankly, you're the one in whom I'm most interested. As I understand it, you'd threaten to kill your husband on several occasions.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, no, no, you mustn't believe that I. I had said that I hated him enough to kill him, but I didn't threaten.

[Dr. Danfield]

And why do you admit making such a statement? An ordinary person would realize that such an admission would immediately arouse suspicion.

[Peter Wade]

If the police learned from someone else that she'd made such statements, it would be a lot worse, wouldn't it? I think Nola did exactly right.

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, do you? William, you're in love with Mrs. Gerald, aren't you?

[Peter Wade]

Yes. Nola and I love each other. There's no point in pretending we don't.

[Dr. Danfield]

That's sensible. Mrs. Gerald. How long did your spell of amnesia last?

[Nola Gerald]

Three days.

[Dr. Danfield]

And during that time you had no idea where you were?

[Nola Gerald]

None at all.

[Dr. Danfield]

I see. But since then, you've been told that you spent all of your time in bed?

[Nola Gerald]

Why, yes. Bessie, our housekeeper, realized what was happening and called Dr. Talmage from the village. He assigned a nurse to take care of me.

[Dr. Danfield]

Was the nurse with you all of the time?

[Nola Gerald]

Well, no. No, she slept in a room across the hall.

[Dr. Danfield]

And you think you could have crept out of bed, gone to the summer house and shot your husband?

[Nola Gerald]

I could have. It's terrible to think of.

[Dr. Danfield]

Yes, Yes, I can understand how you feel. Well, this may lead to some very interesting conclusions. Now, about the shooting incident that took place in the summer house three weeks ago, you were, I understand, all present.

[Michael Dunn]

Yes, we were all there. We all saw what happened. And the police know all about it. Nothing about that that'll help you?

[Dr. Danfield]

I think there is, Maxwell. Good deal. In fact, will one of you be kind enough to tell me exactly what took place?

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, this is getting tiresome. Does anybody mind if I find a good detective story to read?

[Dr. Danfield]

I'm sorry you're not as entertained as you Hope to be, Mrs. Maxwell. Well, which one of you is going to tell us about the shooting?

[Peter Wade]

I suppose it's up to me, since I was more involved than anyone. It was I who fired the shot, you know.

[Dr. Danfield]

Yes, we do. Now proceed, will you, please?

[Peter Wade]

Well, Nola and I had agreed to meet in the summer house shortly after dark. Nola arrived first. She didn't know that Victor knew of our plans and had gone there ahead of us.

[Nola Gerald]

Peter? Peter, are you here? Peter? Victor?

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, well, well.

[Michael Dunn]

So you couldn't wait until we got back to town?

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, Victor, stop acting like the injured husband. You know very well it doesn't make a speck of difference to you where I meet Peter, when or how often.

[Michael Dunn]

That's where you're wrong, my sweet. It makes a whole lot of difference.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, don't tell me you're jealous. Darling. I couldn't stand it.

[Michael Dunn]

Jealous of you? Are you serious? Why, if you took a nose dive off the Empire State Building tomorrow, I'd be the happiest man in the world.

[Nola Gerald]

I'm perfectly aware of how you feel toward me, Victor. Please don't go over it again.

[Michael Dunn]

I'll do more than keep reminding you of what a cheat you are if you insist on a rendezvous with your boyfriend while he's a guest in my house.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, stop pretending it makes any difference. You've told me a hundred times you didn't care what I did.

[Michael Dunn]

I've told you a hundred times I didn't care what you did so long as it didn't affect my business and my reputation. I'm going to Congress next fall, and I'm not going to let you stop me.

[Nola Gerald]

I don't like your attitude, Victor.

[Dr. Danfield]

That's tough.

[Michael Dunn]

Why, you haven't even the decency to respect the agreement we made. You haven't even. You're just no good, Nola. You're rotten all the way through.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, I hate you, Vicar. I hate you so much I could kill you.

[Dr. Danfield]

Good.

[Michael Dunn]

It's a pity we didn't reach this understanding a long time ago. It would have saved us both a lot of trouble. But since now, my career in politics.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, your career in politics. That's all I've heard ever since I married you. Your career in politics. Oh, what a fool I was not to have realized that that's all you cared about, dreamed about, lived for. Everything you ever did was to gain a selfish end. You married me because you felt my social position would give you prestige.

[Michael Dunn]

All right, that's enough. Quit trying to sell yourself the idea you're anything but a. Well, nice going, baby. That caught me right across the mouth. You lousy little cheat.

[Nola Gerald]

Stop it. Stop calling me that. Oh, I hate you. I hate you.

[Peter Wade]

Hey, you little wildcat.

[Nola Gerald]

I'll kill you. Victor. Gerald.

[Peter Wade]

I'll kill you. All right, Gerald, Leave her alone.

[Nola Gerald]

Victor, I'll kill you. Shut up.

[Peter Wade]

Why, you dirty rat. Hitting a woman.

[Nola Gerald]

I'll kill you.

[Michael Dunn]

Come on, Wade, if you want some of the same.

[Peter Wade]

Do you think you can lick this?

[Michael Dunn]

Well, do you always carry a gun, Wade? In case someone should call you a rat?

[Peter Wade]

That does it, Gerald. I've wanted to do this for a long time. Get ready to. Hey, you guys.

[Michael Dunn]

What's going on here? Pete, put on that gun, please. Down that gun, you fool.

[Peter Wade]

Leave me alone, Avery.

[Michael Dunn]

I'm gonna kill him.

[Peter Wade]

Well, that's what happened? Avery knocked the gun up just as I pulled the trigger. But I don't see that it's going to help you any.

[Dr. Danfield]

Quite the contrary, Mr. Wade.

[Nola Gerald]

What I can't understand is why someone wasn't arrested. If the police knew about that little incident.

[Michael Dunn]

Victor didn't want the publicity. He's got a lot of influence. Wasn't hard to keep the thing quiet.

[Nola Gerald]

And now for all his pains, he's dead. He deserved to die. He was horrible.

[Dr. Danfield]

That's a matter of opinion, Mrs. Darrell. It strikes me as rather strange that only three weeks after this attempt was made on Victor Gerald's life. We find him entertaining. The very same group of.

[Peter Wade]

Victor was like that. He deliberately planned this weekend to allay any possible suspicions that outsiders might have.

[Dr. Danfield]

That sounds reasonable. Oh, Mrs. Gerald, do you mind if Ms. Fairfax and I search your room?

[Nola Gerald]

Why, no. If. If you think it necessary.

[Peter Wade]

If it's the lethal weapon you're hoping to find, Danfield, you needn't waste your time. The police have already gone over the house and grounds with a fine tooth comb.

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, no, no, no, no. It isn't the lethal weapon I hope to find. Mr. Wake up. No.

[Peter Wade]

What then?

[Dr. Danfield]

I hope to find something that will prove that Mrs. Gerald didn't have amnesia during the time her husband was being murdered. You see, I think she's lying. And for a very definite reason.

[Michael Dunn]

In a moment, we return to danger, Dr. Danfield.

[Dr. Danfield]

But first.

[Michael Dunn]

Now back to Michael dunn for the third act of danger, Dr. Danfield.

[Dr. Danfield]

Let's go in, Rusty. This is Mrs. Gerald's room.

[Nola Gerald]

Dan, you were guessing when you said you thought Mrs. Gerald was only pretending to have amnesia, weren't you?

[Dr. Danfield]

I never guess. You know that, Rusty. Well, it's rather an attractive room, isn't it?

[Nola Gerald]

But how could you possibly know she was pretending?

[Dr. Danfield]

Mrs. Gerald was too anxious to have us believe that she was a victim of amnesia. It seemed to me rather convenient that the attack should come on at the exact time her husband was being murdered.

[Nola Gerald]

But if Dr. Talmage said.

[Dr. Danfield]

Dr. Talmage didn't say, Rusty. It was Peter Wade who said. The housekeeper summoned the doctor and stated that Mrs. Gerald was having a recurrence of amnesia.

[Nola Gerald]

But Dr. Talmage would know, wouldn't he?

[Dr. Danfield]

Probably, if he made a thorough examination.

[Nola Gerald]

You don't think he did?

[Dr. Danfield]

I think this Mrs. Gerald possibly had an attack of amnesia at some time or another. She probably recovered with no ill effects. Now, when someone reports that she's again the victim of the same disease, why should the doctor become suspicious?

[Nola Gerald]

No. Perhaps you're right.

[Dr. Danfield]

I think I am. How does a doctor or anyone else determine whether or not a person is suffering from amnesia anyway? Let's look out here on the balcony.

[Nola Gerald]

Well, there must be some way of telling.

[Dr. Danfield]

Only by clever questioning, I should think.

[Nola Gerald]

Well, what do you see?

[Dr. Danfield]

Atlantic Building over there would be the summer house, wouldn't you say?

[Nola Gerald]

Yes, that's a summer house. Dan, you don't think.

[Dr. Danfield]

Possibly, Rusty. Possibly. The place is in direct line with this room, isn't it?

[Nola Gerald]

Yes, and this room's on the ground floor. Was it a rifle or a revolver bullet that killed Victor Gerald?

[Dr. Danfield]

A revolver. It would take a high powered rifle and an excellent marksman to hit a target at this distance. No, no, no. We're wasting time on that theory. Rusty. Come on, let's go back inside and look around some more.

[Nola Gerald]

If we could find the revolver, it would help a lot.

[Dr. Danfield]

I doubt that the lethal weapon will ever be found. Police mean a thorough search. Anyway, we won't need it.

[Nola Gerald]

Won't need it? What do you mean by that?

[Dr. Danfield]

I mean I think we can solve this crime without the revolver. Well, it seems to be Mrs. Gerald's diary.

[Nola Gerald]

I hope you're not going to read it. Women consider their diaries private property.

[Dr. Danfield]

That's what makes it strange that Mrs. Gerald should leave her diary here in plain view. She wants us to read it.

[Nola Gerald]

But Dan, why should she?

[Dr. Danfield]

Let's look at the entry she made for October 24th, 5th and 6th. And possibly we'll find the answer. Let's see here. October 22nd, 23rd. Here we are. October 24th. Just as I thought. The page is blank.

[Nola Gerald]

How about the following page?

[Dr. Danfield]

Let's say the next entry is October 27th. Let's see. It says, Dear diary, for the past three days my mind has been a blank on a terrible experience. Not to be able to remember one thing of what happened in your life.

[Nola Gerald]

Well, then she did have amnesia.

[Dr. Danfield]

No, Rusty, I don't think she did. But she went to great lengths to have everyone believe she did. Why?

[Nola Gerald]

Don't ask me. Besides, if she had any ulterior motive, why would she keep saying that it might have been she who shot her husband while her mind was a blank?

[Dr. Danfield]

Because. Well, by George.

[Nola Gerald]

Now what?

[Dr. Danfield]

Rusty, that's the answer. Of course it is. Why didn't I think of it before?

[Nola Gerald]

Think of what before? What's the answer to what?

[Dr. Danfield]

Rusty, you're practically a genius for thinking of it. Come on now. There's something in the summer house that'll probably answer our problem. And I'll bet A dollar. No one's thought to look for it.

[Nola Gerald]

I'd still like to know what it was I thought of that was so wonderful.

[Dr. Danfield]

I've already told you, my dear. It was you who remembered that Nola Gerald kept reminding everyone that it might have been she who shot her husband.

[Nola Gerald]

Which means absolutely nothing as far as I'm concerned.

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, doesn't it? Well, perhaps it will in a few minutes. There we are.

[Nola Gerald]

Say, isn't it cute? This isn't a summer house. It's a complete cottage of its own.

[Dr. Danfield]

Victor Gerald, I understand, spent most of his time here after he and his wife became estranged. Oh, no, no, no. Leave the door open, will you, please, Justin?

[Peter Wade]

But if anyone sees it, that's exactly what I want.

[Dr. Danfield]

For the Gilly party to see us. As a matter of fact, if he or she doesn't, I'll have to explain what we're doing down here.

[Nola Gerald]

But what?

[Dr. Danfield]

You'll see. You'll see. Now then, according to the story Peter Wade told us, Gerald must have been standing about right here when Avery and Peggy Maxwell came charging across the porch and into the room.

[Nola Gerald]

When? What are you talking about?

[Dr. Danfield]

The shooting episode that happened three weeks ago. Well, let me see. Victor struck his wife and she fell. Peter must have been standing by the door. The gun in his hand was knocked up. Yes, yes, there it is.

[Nola Gerald]

There's what?

[Dr. Danfield]

The bullet hole that was made when Wade's gun exploded. See it? Up there near the ceiling.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, yes, of course. Now we know that Peter Wade was telling the truth. But. But how in the world are you going to connect the shooting incident of three weeks ago with Victor Gerald's murder three days ago?

[Dr. Danfield]

I'm not rusty. The murderer is going to do it for us. Come on, let's go back to the house. I want to make a phone call to Chief Ulrich. Then I think we can clean this whole thing up. Yes, that's the way I see it. Chief Ulrich, what do you think? Yes. Yes, I quite agree. Under the circumstances, it'll be our only chance. The carpenter. No, no, no, no. I doubt that'll be necessary. Now. I can handle it all right myself. What? Well, yes, if you'd have an officer nearby, I'd appreciate it very much. Thank you, Chief. Goodbye. Oh, hello, Mr. Wade. Come in.

[Peter Wade]

Was that you talking on the telephone?

[Dr. Danfield]

Why, yes. Why?

[Peter Wade]

I hope what you had to say wasn't of a private nature. Oh, I just saw Avery listening in on your conversation on the extension phone in the kitchen.

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, really? Well, it won't matter a great deal what I Had to say to Chief Ulrich wasn't particularly important.

[Peter Wade]

Ulrich? Hasn't he given up on this case yet?

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, naturally not. As a matter of fact, he and another officer will be out here in about an hour.

[Peter Wade]

An hour?

[Dr. Danfield]

Yes. Is there Something wrong, Mr. Williams?

[Peter Wade]

No, Danfield, there's something I want to ask you.

[Dr. Danfield]

I'll go right ahead.

[Peter Wade]

Suppose it were proven that it was Nola who shot Victor. I mean, when she was suffering from amnesia. Well, could they do anything to her?

[Dr. Danfield]

I'm afraid you're asking the wrong person, Mr. Wade. I'm neither a detective nor a lawyer. I haven't the remotest idea whether they do anything to Mrs. Gerald or not.

[Peter Wade]

It's driving me crazy. I'm in love with the girl, Danfield. Certainly she couldn't be blamed for doing something that she knew nothing about.

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, do you believe there's a chance that Mrs. Gerald will be proven guilty?

[Peter Wade]

I don't know. I wish I did. You see, she'd made threats and the idea might have been in her subconscious mind. Oh, I don't know what to do.

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, I propose that you do absolutely nothing until Chief Ulrich arrives. Oh, by the way, have you a jackknife that I could borrow?

[Peter Wade]

A jackknife? Yes, a small one. It's nothing much more than a penknife.

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, that'll do admirably. Thank you. I'll return it within an hour.

[Peter Wade]

Okay.

[Dr. Danfield]

No hurry.

[Peter Wade]

But what the heck are you gonna do with a jackknife?

[Dr. Danfield]

Do? Oh, nothing. Nothing important. Now I must find Miss Fairfax and ask her to join me in the summer house. I think we have the stage pretty well set, don't you, Rusty?

[Nola Gerald]

I only hope it works.

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, it'll work. I'm sure of it.

[Nola Gerald]

Dan, look. The lights just went out in the summer house.

[Dr. Danfield]

So they did. Well, that means our little scheme is working, doesn't it?

[Nola Gerald]

Working too well. I hope you're not going in there without a light.

[Dr. Danfield]

Why not? Darkness will prove an able alive for what I have in mind.

[Nola Gerald]

What you have in mind? You mean that you're going to do something you haven't told me about?

[Dr. Danfield]

You just wait, you'll see. Here we are.

[Nola Gerald]

It's certainly dark enough in here.

[Dr. Danfield]

Just to make sure, I'll try the light switch. Just as I thought. Someone threw the main switch. Oh, close the door, Rusty, will you, while I'm on a match?

[Nola Gerald]

Okay.

[Dr. Danfield]

Nothing seems to be disturbed.

[Nola Gerald]

Why should it be?

[Dr. Danfield]

Let's see now. Yes, probably the best spot will be over here near the back door.

[Nola Gerald]

Best spot? For what? What's going to happen?

[Dr. Danfield]

Oh, didn't I tell you, Rusty. Here. Wait til I land another match, will it? There. Well, the murderer is going to appear here in a very few minutes and we're going to capture him.

[Nola Gerald]

We're what?

[Dr. Danfield]

I'm going to blow out this match, open the rear door and suggest in a normal tone that we're leaving. And I'm going to close the door. And from that point on, no talking, please.

[Nola Gerald]

But Dan, I am.

[Dr. Danfield]

Don't worry, my dear. I'll take care of everything. Well, Ms. Fairfax, I guess we've done all we can here. Let's go back to the house, shall we?

[Nola Gerald]

All right.

[Dr. Danfield]

Nice work, Rusty. Now find your way to the divan and make yourself comfortable.

[Nola Gerald]

Where are you going to be?

[Dr. Danfield]

Right here near the door, naturally.

[Nola Gerald]

But Dan, suppose.

[Dr. Danfield]

Stop worrying, Rusty. Go on over to the divan.

[Nola Gerald]

All right.

[Dr. Danfield]

Now we'll just sit here and wait. Yes.

[Nola Gerald]

How much longer do we have to wait?

[Dr. Danfield]

Not long, I'm sure. Shh. Be quiet, Dan.

[Nola Gerald]

There's someone at the front door.

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, this rather complicates things. I better.

[Nola Gerald]

Dan, there's someone in the room.

[Dr. Danfield]

Be quiet so he can't locate you.

[Michael Dunn]

All right, friend, you might as well give up.

[Dr. Danfield]

Place is completely surrounded by the police. It's no use. I say, you haven't a chance.

[Nola Gerald]

Daddy.

[Dr. Danfield]

So that's your game, isn't it?

[Peter Wade]

What's going on in here?

[Michael Dunn]

Officer?

[Dr. Danfield]

Get out your flashlight.

[Nola Gerald]

Grab him.

[Peter Wade]

I got him.

[Dr. Danfield]

In a moment we'll return for the.

[Michael Dunn]

Conclusion of our story.

[Dr. Danfield]

But first.

[Michael Dunn]

Now for the conclusion of.

[Dr. Danfield]

Danger.

[Michael Dunn]

Dr. Danfield.

[Dr. Danfield]

Rusty. Rusty.

[Michael Dunn]

You all right?

[Nola Gerald]

I guess so. What happened?

[Michael Dunn]

Don't worry, Doc, I got him. Pick up a flashlight and let's see who it is.

[Dr. Danfield]

Right.

[Peter Wade]

Keep your hands off me.

[Michael Dunn]

Steady now, me lad.

[Dr. Danfield]

There we are. Well, Bean, It's Peter Wade, which isn't too surprising. All right, Officer, put the handcuffs on him. Chief Ulrich will be here any minute.

[Michael Dunn]

I'll just do that.

[Peter Wade]

Take your hands off me. You're not gonna put your handcuffs on me.

[Dr. Danfield]

Come on, Rusty, let's get out of here. Our work seems to be. Well, come on in, Rusty. It's good to get back to the peace and quiet of the study, eh?

[Nola Gerald]

I'll say it is.

[Dr. Danfield]

Here, I'll touch a match of the kindling. Oh, there's some shadow marking on the cupboard. How about it?

[Nola Gerald]

That's a good idea. I'll get it.

[Dr. Danfield]

There we are. Now then, a glass of wine and we'll go over our notes.

[Nola Gerald]

Right. There's still a lot of things I'm in the dark about.

[Dr. Danfield]

Such as wondering how I knew the murderer would reveal his identity by coming out the summer house.

[Nola Gerald]

That's the big question.

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, here's the answer. Nola, Gerald and Peter Wade had planned the murder of Nola's husband very carefully. For example, Peter deliberately planned the shooting episode three weeks ago because he reasoned that, well, no one would think he'd been fool enough to murder the man he previously attacked.

[Nola Gerald]

He figured that we'd all reason that his motive was too obvious right now.

[Dr. Danfield]

Then both Nola and Peter made continued subtle attempts to cast suspicion on Nola.

[Nola Gerald]

Why?

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, they hoped that everything else failing, the police would reason that it must have been she who murdered her husband while she was suffering from amnesia.

[Nola Gerald]

And if she did without realizing it, she couldn't be blamed.

[Dr. Danfield]

That's what they hoped. And they were probably right.

[Nola Gerald]

But how did you know the murderer would come to the summer house?

[Dr. Danfield]

Because I let everyone know what I planned to do. I told Chief Ulrich that I intended to remove the bullet from the hole it made in the wall during the shooting episode of three weeks ago.

[Nola Gerald]

But how would that prove anything?

[Dr. Danfield]

Well, by comparing that bullet which Wade admitted he fired with a bullet which was removed from Victor Gerald, it. Well, it could easily be established that the two bullets came from the same gun.

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, Dan, that's right, isn't it?

[Dr. Danfield]

Of course, if Wade had Warner to risk it, he still could have sat back and made us prove that he fired the second shot. But he didn't know how much else we knew. And if he could gain possession of the bullet buried in the wall, he'd be completely safe. See? Oh. Some more wine, Rusty?

[Nola Gerald]

Oh, yes, thanks. And then we'd better get on with the lecture.

[Dr. Danfield]

The lecture, my dear, can wait.