Hearthstone of the Death Squad 51-08-30 (01) The Unheeded Warning Murder Case

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Hearthstone of the Death Squad 51-08-30 (01) The Unheeded Warning Murder Case"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Hearthstone of the Death Squad 51-08-30 (01) The Unheeded Warning Murder Case
• Release Date: March 2, 2025

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Introduction

"Hearthstone of the Death Squad" transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, delivering a gripping murder mystery filled with suspense, intrigue, and classic radio drama elements. In "The Unheeded Warning Murder Case," Inspector Hearthstone, an unyielding investigator, delves into a web of deceit surrounding the Lindsay Messenger Service. The episode masterfully intertwines character dynamics, red herrings, and unexpected twists, culminating in a dramatic resolution.

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Main Characters

• Inspector Hearthstone: The steadfast and analytical leader of the Death Squad, known for his impeccable investigative skills.
• Sam Cook: Hearthstone's loyal and perceptive detective assistant.
• Phil Richards: A passionate newspaper reporter engaged to Della Parker.
• Della Parker: The charming secretary at Lindsay Messenger Service and Phil’s fiancée.
• Elliot Lindsay: The enigmatic head of Lindsay Messenger Service, hiding a dark secret.
• Henry Jones: A clerk at Lindsay Messenger Service who becomes a pivotal figure in the investigation.
• Martin Bayard: The dedicated city editor of the Evening Star, whose murder propels the narrative forward.

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Plot Overview

Opening Scene: A Foreboding Warning

The episode begins with a humorous advertisement featuring Della Parker and Inspector Hearthstone exchanging banter about Geico's motorcycle coverage ([00:00]-[00:21]). This swiftly transitions into the main narrative, introducing the Lindsay Messenger Service's office. Della Parker welcomes Phil Richards, her fiancé and a newspaper reporter, only to be warned by another character, Sam Cook, to flee the premises due to impending danger ([01:59]-[03:36]).

The First Murder: Bash Cagle

Phil Richards confronts Elliot Lindsay, accusing him of being involved in criminal activities and threatens him with violence ([04:02]-[05:04]). Shortly after, a mysterious man named Bash Cagle is found murdered in the office hallway, igniting Inspector Hearthstone's investigation ([05:04]-[07:34]).

Connecting the Dots: Martin Bayard's Death

As the investigation unfolds, it's revealed that Phil's city editor, Martin Bayard, had insights into the criminal operations of Lindsay Messenger Service. However, Bayard is abruptly killed by machine gun fire before he can divulge crucial information, raising suspicions about Elliot Lindsay's involvement ([09:08]-[10:46]).

Unraveling the Mystery: Henry Jones' Clue

A mysterious note from Henry Jones surfaces, suggesting inside knowledge of the dope distribution ring linked to Lindsay Messenger Service. This leads to further tension and eventual murder, as Henry Jones is also killed, deepening the mystery ([12:12]-[14:32]).

Climactic Revelation: Della's Betrayal

In a tense confrontation, Della Parker is revealed to be the mastermind behind the dope ring and the orchestrator of the murders. Her betrayal shocks Phil Richards and Inspector Hearthstone, leading to a swift resolution where Della confesses and is apprehended ([23:10]-[28:31]).

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Inspector Hearthstone on Happiness:

  "No conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness." ([00:06])

• Phil Richards' Confrontation with Lindsay:

  "I'm the Bash Cagle you're trying to throw to the cops. And I just dropped by to tell you one more chip and I'll kill you." ([04:19])

• Sam Cook Revealing Martin Bayard's Fate:

  "Martin Bayard was shot down by a machine gun fire." ([09:53])

• Della Parker's Confession:

  "I hope you'll find it in your heart. Forgiven." ([25:38])

• Inspector Hearthstone's Final Judgment:

  "Hearthstone of the Death Squad rights solved in the files of the Unheeded Warning Murder Case." ([29:06])

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Trust and Betrayal: The episode intricately explores the themes of trust and betrayal, especially through the relationships between Phil, Della, and Elliot. Della's dual role as both a trusted secretary and the antagonist underscores the unpredictability of human motives.

2. The Thin Line Between Good and Evil: Elliot Lindsay and Della Parker initially present themselves as respectable professionals, only to reveal their nefarious activities. This juxtaposition highlights how appearances can be deceiving.

3. Journalistic Integrity: Phil Richards embodies the essence of investigative journalism, risking his life to uncover the truth. His determination to expose corruption, despite personal risks, serves as a testament to journalistic ethics.

4. Law Enforcement Efficiency: Inspector Hearthstone's methodical approach and unwavering commitment to justice portray the ideal qualities of law enforcement officers, emphasizing the importance of diligence and integrity in policing.

5. Impact of Organized Crime: The portrayal of the dope distribution ring within a seemingly legitimate business illustrates the pervasive influence of organized crime and its ability to corrupt institutions from within.

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Conclusion

"The Unheeded Warning Murder Case" delivers a compelling narrative rich with suspense and intricate character developments typical of the Golden Age of Radio dramas. Inspector Hearthstone's relentless pursuit of truth amidst deceitful allies and perilous foes showcases classic elements of detective storytelling. The episode culminates in a satisfying resolution, where justice prevails, and the true villain is unmasked. For listeners seeking a nostalgic yet thrilling auditory experience, this episode stands out as a quintessential example of timeless radio drama excellence.

Transcript

[Della Parker]

Geico's motorcycle expertise means I'm covered by people who know bikes like I do. I'm happy as a clam.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

No conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness.

[Elliot Lindsay]

It just meant that I feel really.

[Phil Richards]

Good about my coverage.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

I mean, even if you took the climb out for the best day ever, visiting the zoo, taking a scenic ride, knowing you're insured by specialists, and sharing a strawberry ice cream cone together, the clam would not feel happy. And your strawberry cone would taste sort of clammy.

[Della Parker]

Ew.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

Geico's motorcycle specialists who know bikes like you do assume no liability for clammy ice cream cones. Geico expertise for your motorcycle. Tonight, CBS Radio again presents the famous Hearthstone of the Death Squad, implacable manhunter of the metropolitan police in one of his greatest investigations entitled the Unheeded Warning Murder Case. With Ronald Long as Elliot Lindsay and Florence Williams as Della Parker. Now for Inspector Hearthstone of the Death Squad in the Unheeded Warning Murder Case. The scene opens in the front office of the Lindsay Messenger Service, whose business is the delivery of messages and small parcels. A pretty girl is seated at a desk. She looks up, surprised, as the door opens and a young man, obviously excited, enters. The girl is Della Parker. The young man is Phil Richards, a newspaper reporter, Della's fiance. And we hear Della say the words that lead to violence and murder.

[Della Parker]

Oh, Phil, this is a surprise. What are you doing here, Della?

[Sam Cook]

Quick, put on your hat. You've got to get out of this place.

[Della Parker]

You sound as dramatic as one of your stories in the paper, Phil.

[Sam Cook]

I've come to warn you, Della.

[Della Parker]

Well, all right, I'm warned. But what about.

[Phil Richards]

Hurry, Della.

[Sam Cook]

I'll tell you on the way out.

[Della Parker]

Oh, you sound awfully silly, Phil, but I love you anyway.

[Phil Richards]

Della, please be serious.

[Sam Cook]

You're in real danger here.

[Della Parker]

What on earth are you talking about?

[Sam Cook]

This place. The Lindsay Messenger Service isn't what you think it is.

[Della Parker]

Are you trying to kid me, Phil?

[Sam Cook]

Certainly I'm not. This place isn't a messenger service at all. It's the front for one of the worst criminal operations in New York.

[Della Parker]

Don't be silly.

[Sam Cook]

My city editor, Martin Bayer, just gave me the lowdown on what goes on in this place.

[Della Parker]

What goes on here?

[Sam Cook]

He's ready to blow the whole dirty business wide open. And when he does, one of the biggest stories of crime and murder the paper ever printed will flash across the front page and rock the town.

[Della Parker]

Oh, Phil, you talk like a scene from a 10, 20, 30 melodrama.

[Sam Cook]

All right, don't listen to me, Della. Treat me like an idiot. But whatever you do, come with me.

[Phil Richards]

Now.

[Sam Cook]

Quit this job. Get away from this place before something happens to you.

[Della Parker]

If you think I'm going to give up a job paying $100 a week because of some wild idea born in a newspaper office, well, I won't do it. It's stupid. You want to know? I'm going to keep this job until long after we're married.

[Sam Cook]

It's no wild idea. And Martin Bayard is not the kind of the editor who chases rainbows. I order you, Della, to leave here now.

[Della Parker]

You order me, do you? Well, you can't order me to do anything.

[Sam Cook]

I didn't know I was marrying a fool. But don't say I didn't warn you. What a stubborn imbecile you are.

[Phil Richards]

Goodbye.

[Della Parker]

Trouble is, you've been reading too many detective stories. Guess he didn't hear that. Anyway, nothing's happened. That a kiss cure tonight.

[Phil Richards]

Hi, beautiful. Where's your boss?

[Della Parker]

If you mean Mr. Lindsay, he's in his office. And don't call me beautiful. Who shall I tell? Mr. Lindsay wants to see him.

[Phil Richards]

You're telling him nothing, baby. I'm going in there. That's his door, ain't it?

[Della Parker]

But you can't see Mr. Lindsay without being announced.

[Sam Cook]

No.

[Phil Richards]

Get out of my way. I'm going in. You stay right here, kid.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Well, Lindsay, who are you and what's your business?

[Phil Richards]

You don't know Bash Cagle, eh? Try something new, Lindsay.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I repeat, I don't know you.

[Phil Richards]

Well, we're going to get acquainted fast. Lindsay. I'm the Bash Cagle you're trying to throw to the cops. And I just dropped by to tell you one more chip and I'll kill you.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I've got my foot on an alarm bell that will bring everybody in this office here. Now get this, Bass Cagle, if that's your name, I don't know you. I've never seen you. We've got the wrong idea somewhere.

[Phil Richards]

Any more of that, Lindsay, and I'll kill you right now.

[Elliot Lindsay]

When I mentioned the alarm bell to you, I didn't mention this gun in my hand. Now leave.

[Phil Richards]

Get out. That's it, huh? Okay, I'll leave. But on my way out, I'll count that dame on the dome. The one who tried to keep me out of here.

[Elliot Lindsay]

No, you won't leave by that door. You'll leave through this back door right here. Now move.

[Della Parker]

Mr. Lindley, what were those shots?

[Elliot Lindsay]

I don't know, Della. They came from the back Hallway. I'll look out.

[Della Parker]

I'll open the door. Oh, that man's been murdered. The man who forced his way into your office. Oh, how terrible.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I'll call the police, Stella.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

So once again, the steely, cold Hearthstone of the death squad and his assistant, Detective Sam Cook, find themselves on the scene of a strange and puzzling murder. And we hear Inspector Hearthstone with Della Parker and her employer, Mr. Lindsay, as he says.

[Phil Richards]

So your strange. The story, Mr. Lindsay, is that a man you had never seen before forced his way into your office, threatened to kill you, left by the back door which you had closed upon him, and was shot down in this hallway about 10ft from the door of this office.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I'm sure he was insane, Inspector Hearthstone. He forced his way into my office.

[Della Parker]

That's just what happened, Inspector. I'm Della Perkin, Mr. Lindsay's confidential secretary. The man rushed in with a mad look in his eyes, wouldn't let me announce it, pushed me aside and forced his way into Mr. Lindsay's office and slammed the door.

[Phil Richards]

So you were not in Mr. Lindsay's office while this man was talking to him?

[Elliot Lindsay]

No, Della was outside in the reception room. But you see, Inspector Hearthstone, she confirms my story.

[Phil Richards]

Exactly so I should expect from your secretary, Mr. Lindsay. Confirming employer's statement as part of a secretary's job. But I wonder, will she confirm whatever explanation you make of that.45 caliber gun on your desk?

[Della Parker]

A gun? Oh, well, Mr. Lindsay usually keeps that in his safe. I have no idea how it got there, Inspector.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I used it to frighten the man away, Inspector. Remember? He was threatening to kill me. Why? I don't know.

[Phil Richards]

Ticket, Cook. Sam, hand me that gun, please.

[Sam Cook]

Sure, Inspector.

[Phil Richards]

Hmm. I see it hasn't been fired.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Not much evidence, is there, Inspector Hearthstone? A gun that hasn't been fired. And the body of a man out there I've never set eyes on before. I wonder who he was.

[Phil Richards]

I can tell you, Mr. Lindsay. His name is Bash Cagle. And his business is that of a dope peddler.

[Elliot Lindsay]

What?

[Phil Richards]

And your business is that of a messenger and parcel delivery, sir.

[Della Parker]

Oh, how dreadful.

[Elliot Lindsay]

What's dreadful? Devil.

[Phil Richards]

Well, she may be formulating the idea, Mr. Lindsay, that a parcel delivery service would be an excellent way to distribute dope. But we'll drop that for the moment.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Inspector Hearthstone, this excited girl is putting ideas into your mind. She hasn't the haziest idea of what this business is.

[Phil Richards]

Perhaps you should find a less excitable secretary, Mr. Lindsay. Probably safer. Noah. Oh, Della.

[Sam Cook]

I was Afraid it was you.

[Della Parker]

Oh, darling, I'm so frightened.

[Phil Richards]

What's this?

[Sam Cook]

Phil Richards from the Evening Star. Inspector Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

Oh, now I recall him. Detective Cook. Hello, Phil. What brings you here?

[Sam Cook]

I came to cover the story and to get Della out of here. Inspector Hearthstone.

[Della Parker]

Phil and I are to be married, Inspector. Oh, Phil, I should have listened to you this morning.

[Phil Richards]

This morning? Were you here before this murder occurred, Phil?

[Sam Cook]

Yes, about an hour before Inspector Hearthstone. Looks like this guy gets in early, Inspector. Covers a murder story before the murder comes off. Fast work, Phil.

[Phil Richards]

That's a point, sir. Why were you here this morning, Phil?

[Della Parker]

He came to warn me, Inspector Hearthstone.

[Sam Cook]

That's it, Inspector. I had a tip from my City editor, Martin Bayard, that he was ready to blow this Lindsay Messenger Service outfit to the sky. Said he just about had the goods. That it was the COVID for a big crime ring.

[Phil Richards]

What kind of ring, Bill? Phil.

[Sam Cook]

Well, Bayer didn't tell me. He's a pretty secretive sort of a guy until he gets a story all lined up and tied together. But believe me, he's got one, or he wouldn't be saying anything.

[Della Parker]

Phil came here terribly upset, Inspector Hearthstone, to have me leave my job, and I was silly enough to laugh at him. I called it melodrama.

[Phil Richards]

Phil, get your City Editor, Martin Bayard, to the phone for me.

[Sam Cook]

Okay, Inspector Parker, 089970, and be quick. Hello, Star Office? This is Phil Richards. Put me onto Bayard at the City desk. What? That's impossible. When? Wait. Let me tell this to Inspector Hearthstone. Listen, Inspector. Martin Bayard was shot down by a machine gun fire.

[Phil Richards]

What?

[Sam Cook]

They got him just as he was stepping into a lunchroom behind the newspaper office less than five minutes ago.

[Phil Richards]

So Bayard's story on the Lindsay Messenger Service was stopped by the hand of death.

[Sam Cook]

And I think I've got the answer. Inspector Hearthstone, this man Lindsay here undoubtedly overheard me warning Della this morning and tipped his mob to bump off Bayard.

[Phil Richards]

It could be, Phil. No, Lindsay.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I didn't overhear anything. Inspector Hearthstone. I didn't even know this reporter was in here talking to Della. It's ridiculous. And why in the name of heaven should I want the City editor of the Evening Star murdered?

[Phil Richards]

As the evidence in this case unfolds itself, the answer to that question may be revealed. Lindsay. In the meanwhile, let's go back to the murdered dope peddler in the hall, Bash Cagle. His body, at least, is on these premises.

[Elliot Lindsay]

May I point out to you, Inspector Hearthstone, that there is Only a single set of footprints on the floor leading from this office to his body. His footsteps and no others.

[Phil Richards]

No, you needn't, Lindsay. I noted that interesting fact myself. That's why I didn't approach the body.

[Elliot Lindsay]

That makes it pretty clear, doesn't it, that I didn't follow him down the hallway and kill him.

[Phil Richards]

Unless there's some very clever trick that I haven't caught on to as yet.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Well, nobody ever goes down that hall. That is, except very seldom. The floor was waxed this morning. The only person walking over it was the murdered man.

[Phil Richards]

So it seems. Now tell me, Mr. Lindsay, did you use the phone after the murder?

[Elliot Lindsay]

Only to call the police, Inspector Hearthstone. Isn't that true, Della?

[Della Parker]

Well, I don't know, Mr. Lindsay. That is.

[Phil Richards]

That is what, Della?

[Della Parker]

Well, I'm sure, inspector Hearthstone, that Mr. Lindsay did not use the phone.

[Phil Richards]

Detective Cook. Sam, what did you find out from the elevator man?

[Sam Cook]

He says he brought two tough looking characters up here, Inspector, but they never came down with him. If this is only the third floor, it'd be a cinch to get away down the stairs.

[Phil Richards]

Very well. And Sam, there's a man looking out of the back office near Bashkagal's body. I think he wants to talk to me.

[Sam Cook]

How do you know? Okay, I'll get him. Come on. Mr. Inspector wants you.

[Phil Richards]

Certainly, officer. I've got a note for the Inspector.

[Elliot Lindsay]

You won't get anything out of him, Inspector Hearthstone. He's only the man who handles the parcels. Henry Jones.

[Phil Richards]

Thank you, Lindsay, but I'll find out for myself.

[Sam Cook]

Hey, I. Inspector Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

Your name is Henry Jones. What's your story? No story at all, Inspector Hearthstone. I just wanted to give you this note that I found. Oh, thanks, Mr. Jones. I'll look at it.

[Elliot Lindsay]

What's in that note, Jones?

[Phil Richards]

Nothing of immediate interest to you, Lindsay. I think I take the point, Mr. Jones. We'll arrange it just as this note suggests. Sam, read this note.

[Sam Cook]

I think it's a trek, Inspector Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

I'm not so sure, Sam. Come on, let's go back to headquarters.

[Sam Cook]

Back to headquarters, Inspector? With everything hanging in the air, I don't catch you on.

[Phil Richards]

Come on, Sam. Oh, thank you, Mr. Lindsay, for your help. I shall see you later after your establishment has been gone over with a fine tooth comb searched.

[Elliot Lindsay]

What?

[Phil Richards]

And if you're interested in what I'm looking for, it's dope, narcotics, drugs. Goodbye.

[Sam Cook]

What about me and Della, Inspector Hearthstone?

[Phil Richards]

Write your story for the newspaper, Phil. About this murder and about the Killing of your city editor, Martin Bayard. Then look after your fiance. I think she may be ready now to stop laughing at your warnings.

[Sam Cook]

This note from that guy, Henry Jones, looks tricky to me. Inspector Hearthstone says, can I see you at police headquarters? Have the evidence you want? Afraid to talk here. I'm the party who has given Bayard, city editor of the Evening Star, the lowdown. Henry Jones.

[Phil Richards]

The note can be a trick, Sam, or it can be legitimate. When we talk to Henry Jones, we'll soon find out.

[Sam Cook]

My hunch is we'll get nothing.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

And Detective Sam Cook was right. For while he and Inspector Hearthstone are on their way back to headquarters, this scene takes place with Henry Jones in his employer's office. We hear Mr. Lindsay, the employer, saying.

[Elliot Lindsay]

You'Ll tell me what that note you wrote to Hearthstone was, Jones, or you're.

[Phil Richards]

Out of a job. It's got nothing to do with you, Mr. Lindsay. Believe me.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Were you by any chance making a date to talk to Hearthstone outside of this office, where you could talk and talk and talk? Feed him a lot of eyewash about what you think goes on here?

[Phil Richards]

No, I'm not meeting that cop anywhere. Never had such an idea.

[Elliot Lindsay]

That's the phone ringing in your office, Jones. Go answer it and then come back here.

[Phil Richards]

All right. I'll be right back, Mr. Lindsay. Hello? Hello? Hey, what is this? What are you doing? No, no. Don't. Don't kill me.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

Another mystery high spot on your CBS radio roster, formerly at this time, is the lineup. The lineup, taking you behind the scenes into police cases and authentic police methods, brings you stories of troubled human beings on both sides of the law. Exciting manhunts colored only by reality itself. From now on, the lineup will be heard Wednesday evening over most of these same CBS radio stations. And now back to Hearthstone of the death squad and the unheeded warning murder case. When sudden murder strikes in the offices of the Elliot Lindsay Messenger Service, Inspector Hearthstone recognizes the victim as Bash Cagle, a notorious dope peddler. And he looks with suspicion upon Elliot Lindsay. Especially when Phil Richards, a newspaper reporter in love with Lindsay's beautiful secretary, Della Parker, tells Inspector Hearthstone that his city editor, Martin Baird, has information that the Lindsay Messenger Service is being used to distribute dope. Then Martin Baird is murdered, and a note is delivered to Hearthstone from Henry Jones, a clerk in Elliot Lindsay's office, saying he has the evidence that will point out the murderer. Now, it is a short time later, the scene is police headquarters. And we hear Inspector Hearthstone saying to Detective Sam Cooke.

[Phil Richards]

Well, Henry Jones should be here any minute now, Sam.

[Sam Cook]

I still say the guys are phony.

[Phil Richards]

Inspector Hearthstone speaking.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Inspector Hearthstone, this is Elliot Lindsay. Another murder has been committed here in my office. The man, Henry Jones, who gave you that note, has been shot stone dead. A couple of policemen are here already, but I thought I'd better phone you myself.

[Phil Richards]

Put one of those policemen on the line, Lindsay.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Officer, Inspector Hearthstone wants to speak to you.

[Phil Richards]

That's as Officer Kenny, Inspector. Take Elliot Lindsay, head of Lindsay Messenger Service. In custody, Officer. Bring him in handcuffed. Have the officers surrounded so nobody can get in or out. And act at once. Goodbye.

[Sam Cook]

That's the third guy to go, Inspector.

[Phil Richards]

Yes, and if we are not careful, Sam, it won't be the last. Well, Sam, see if you can reach Phil Richards at his newspaper. Tell him I want to see him. Tell him to hurry over here.

[Sam Cook]

Well, that's a coincidence. I had a flash you'd want me, Inspector Hearthstone. So here I am.

[Phil Richards]

Oh, splendid, Phil. I see you brought Della with you.

[Della Parker]

It was dreadful, Inspector. Phil and I hadn't even left the Lindsay offices when that poor harmless old man, Henry Jones was killed.

[Sam Cook]

He was in Lindsay's office, Inspector.

[Phil Richards]

Murdered in Lindsay's office?

[Della Parker]

No, not killed there. But I heard them quarreling, inspector Hearthstone in Mr. Lindsay's office. And then Henry Jones went to answer his phone and he was shot in his own little cubbyhole.

[Sam Cook]

It's a cinch Lindsay did it, Inspector. Now, Della, tell Inspector Hearthstone what you told me about Lindsay's phone call before my City Editor was killed.

[Phil Richards]

Well, don't hold back.

[Sam Cook]

There's nothing to be afraid of, Della.

[Della Parker]

Well, I heard Mr. Lindsay on the phone calling somebody this morning after the first murder. And he said, phil, City Editor Martin Bayard usually ran out for a sandwich at a lunch counter behind the newspaper office at about 2:00 every day.

[Sam Cook]

So there you are, Inspector.

[Phil Richards]

There's your case. It seems that way, Phil, but every indication is that Lindsay was not working alone. The dope racket embraces many men, many killers. I want them all.

[Sam Cook]

That's what my murdered City Editor told me, Inspector. And by the way, I went through his private file and found one very peculiar thing, Phil.

[Della Parker]

Isn't enough that three people have been killed already for talking without your taking a chance? Phil, please get out of this case. I'm frightened, terribly frightened for you.

[Sam Cook]

Well, I'm a newspaper reporter, Della. I write what I see and I tell the police what I know.

[Della Parker]

Please, Phil. I'm So frightened. You must take care of me. With all those people being killed from that horrible Lindsay Messenger Service office. I'm afraid to go home. I know somebody who'll kill me. I'll sit up all night. I won't go to bed.

[Phil Richards]

Oh, easy, sweetheart.

[Sam Cook]

I've thought of that myself. So I've told my mother you'll stay with her until this is over.

[Della Parker]

Oh, Phil, that's just what I hoped you'd say. Your mother's a date, darling.

[Phil Richards]

Let me ask you, Phil. Did you bring those notes you took from your murdered city editor's private file with you?

[Sam Cook]

No, but I can get them, Inspector Hearthstone. After I've taken Della to my mother's, I'll go back to the newspaper and pick them up. I'll bring them to you then. Is that all right?

[Della Parker]

So wouldn't it be quicker if we passed by the newspaper office on our way to your mother's? You could get those papers then. And as soon as you've left me at Mother's and take a taxi and be back here in a few minutes.

[Sam Cook]

Oh, that's an idea, Della. I'll be back, Inspector Hearthstone. That way before 10.

[Phil Richards]

Excellent. Phil, you and Della had better run along now. Go through the door at the left.

[Sam Cook]

Come on, Della. See you about 10, Inspector Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

Bye bye. Yes? Come in. I've got that man Lindsay outside, Inspector Hearthstone. You want him up here now? Yes, Officer Kinney. Bring him in.

[Sam Cook]

I'll go with you, Kenny, and get him myself.

[Phil Richards]

No, no, Sam. Let Kenny get him. And you hurry down and put a good man, a top man, on the job of trailing Phil and Della. Don't stand staring at me, Sam. Get on with it.

[Sam Cook]

I'm sorry, Inspector. I'll put one of the boys on that trail right away, sir.

[Phil Richards]

Richard and Bella Parker. Well, hurry, Sam. Here's Lindsey. Inspector.

[Elliot Lindsay]

Inspector Hearthstone, if you're arresting me for murder, you're on the wrong street.

[Phil Richards]

Why, Lindsay?

[Elliot Lindsay]

Because I didn't kill anybody. It's more likely I myself will be killed again.

[Phil Richards]

Why, Lindsay?

[Elliot Lindsay]

Because it's as plain as the nose on your face. That young newspaper reporter, Phil Richards and his girlfriend, Della Parker are committing these murders.

[Phil Richards]

Oh, really? Well, thanks for the information. But tell me, what evidence have you to support that story, Lindsay?

[Elliot Lindsay]

The evidence of what I suppose is millions of dollars in dope that I found concealed in our uptown warehouse. The only people who could have concealed it there are my secretary, Della Parker, and her fiance, that newspaper reporter. They're the only ones.

[Phil Richards]

It's a Beautiful story of true, Lindsay. Especially from a man who's been on the scene in suspicious circumstances of two murders.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I don't care where I was. I'm telling you the truth. Inspector Hearthstone, I.

[Phil Richards]

All right, Lindsay. I'm going to do a funny thing. Detective Cook, Spectre, take the handcuffs off, Lindsay. Release him. No charge.

[Sam Cook]

Release him.

[Phil Richards]

That's what I said, Sam. Release him. You may go, Lindsay. But remember, you may be watched.

[Elliot Lindsay]

You're letting me go?

[Phil Richards]

I have my reasons. Show Mr. Lindsay out, Sam.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

And in the meanwhile, Della Parker and Phil Richards are walking along the dark street where Phil's mother lives. And Phil is saying, I think you.

[Sam Cook]

Were imagining things, sweetheart. Nobody was following us. But just to settle you down, I got the idea of slipping through one door of that restaurant and out the other.

[Della Parker]

Bill, I'm worried about you. What was that strange thing you said was in those notes of your editor, Martin Bayard? I'm about to be your wife. Darling, we shouldn't have secrets. Please, dear.

[Sam Cook]

I think Bayard went nuts before he was killed. His notes say a woman was in the dope racket with Lindsay.

[Della Parker]

And who was the woman? Phil, darling. But come kiss me first and then tell me.

[Sam Cook]

I tell you, Bayard, big city, editor or not, was nuts. It was you, Della.

[Della Parker]

You give me those papers. Obeyed. Give them to me, Della.

[Sam Cook]

Oh, God forgive me. It was you. I'll give you nothing. God help me. You a murderess.

[Della Parker]

A murderess and the queen of dope, too. Now give me those papers.

[Phil Richards]

Not this side, Oak.

[Elliot Lindsay]

He killed me.

[Sam Cook]

And.

[Phil Richards]

Good.

[Della Parker]

Now for those papers. Here they are. And now into this sewer with them. And the gun. Help.

[Phil Richards]

Help.

[Della Parker]

Murder. Murder. Help.

[Phil Richards]

What's happened, lady?

[Della Parker]

My fiance's been killed. I was afraid of this. Oh, take me to a phone, officer. I must call Inspector Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

Hearthstone of the death squad?

[Della Parker]

Yes. He's working on the case that led to this murder.

[Phil Richards]

Well, you can use this police phone right here, miss. I'll get him.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

Hello.

[Phil Richards]

Officer Blake reporting a murder. Give me Inspector Hearthstone. Be on this.

[Della Parker]

Inspector Hearthstone, this is Bella Parker, that terrible man. Lindsay has just murdered Phil Richards.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

And a few minutes later, we find an hysterical girl, Della Parker, confession. Confronting Inspector Hearthstone.

[Della Parker]

And I keep on saying, inspector Hearthstone, you're responsible for Phil's murder. You knew a desperate gang of dope peddlers was after him and you'll fail to protect him.

[Phil Richards]

I'll never live long enough to forgive myself.

[Della Parker]

Della, you should have done something.

[Phil Richards]

Recriminations won't get us anywhere, Della. All we can do is help each other. And when I bring Phil's killer to justice, I hope you'll find it in your heart. Forgiven. Steady, my dear. First thing is, did you actually see your employer Lindsay, shoot down film?

[Della Parker]

It was dark, but I'm sure it was Mr. Lindick. I'll swear it on the witness stand. And I'll swear too, that you were the cause.

[Phil Richards]

Please, my dear child, forget your feelings toward me for a minute. I only asked you to help me do that first. Then hate me all you like. I'll understand and forgive.

[Della Parker]

How can I help you?

[Phil Richards]

Inspector Hostock, Detective Cook. Bring Lindsay in.

[Sam Cook]

Come in, Lindsay. Don't try any tricks.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I wasn't near that reporter Phil Richards when he was killed. Detective Cook is mad.

[Phil Richards]

Here are some reports from our narcotics squad. Lindsay, read these letters. They're tips written into narcotics. Putting free nature dope czars on the spot. And you are one of them.

[Elliot Lindsay]

I don't know anything about them. They're. They're typewritten.

[Phil Richards]

They were written on the typewriter in your office. And here is a confidential report to Narcotics from the murdered city editor, Martin Bayard, the man Phil Richards worked for.

[Elliot Lindsay]

What does it say?

[Phil Richards]

It says a woman is the head of your dope ring. And don't deny you are operating Ron Lindsay.

[Della Parker]

That woman with me to Lindsay's wife, Inspector Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

That's possible, Della.

[Elliot Lindsay]

It's a lie, Inspector Hearthstone. My wife had nothing to do with dope.

[Phil Richards]

Watch what you're saying, Lindsay. Your wife may be the woman.

[Elliot Lindsay]

It's not my wife. She's not the killer. This girl, Della Parker, was the brains. She worked the whole thing. She used my messenger service to pass dope.

[Della Parker]

What are you saying, Mr. Lind? Oh, Inspector Harvest, don't listen to the nuff. That Phil Richards, the fine, clean boy who loved me. Oh, Phil, why should you have been murdered?

[Phil Richards]

Because Phil found out who the leader of the doping was. Who the wholesale murderer was.

[Della Parker]

I begged Phil to stay out of this.

[Phil Richards]

And he undoubtedly knew who the woman was who operated the dope ring. She directed the murders to gain complete control for herself.

[Della Parker]

Mr. Lindsay, I scratch your eyes out your way.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

Why shot Phil?

[Phil Richards]

Get us Sam. Easy now, Della. Sam, now tell us just where you found the papers and the murder gun that killed Phil. Sure.

[Sam Cook]

I got him out of the sewer trays near where he was shot.

[Phil Richards]

A natural place for a woman to throw them. And you, Della Parker, were the only woman on the scene of Phil's murder.

[Della Parker]

That's right. Accuse me for your own mistakes, Inspector. Hearthstone, I hope.

[Phil Richards]

I hope you'll forgive me for this.

[Della Parker]

Della, I'll not forgive you for anything.

[Phil Richards]

Not even for arresting you for murder. Grant us ham and handkerchief.

[Sam Cook]

Gag him, fella.

[Phil Richards]

Your mistake, Della, was in being a little too clever, too cooperative, too sweet with the unfortunate boy you murdered. Probably the only person who ever loved you.

[Della Parker]

You can't prove that I murdered him, Hearthstone.

[Phil Richards]

You'll find I can. Prove. Prove everything, Della. When I present the evidence I have at your trial.

[Della Parker]

You prove nothing.

[Phil Richards]

And you remember this. When the dark and eternal door of the execution chamber closes on you.

[Della Parker]

No.

[Phil Richards]

No. That's all, Sam. Charge her with murder and turn Lindsay over to a narcotics division as a dope handler.

[Sam Cook]

Okay.

[Phil Richards]

Inspector Hearthstone, my only regret is the men we put betrayal. This woman and Phil Richards on his murder journey lost them. I was trying to protect Phil from this very thing.

[Inspector Hearthstone]

And thus, Hearthstone of the Death Squad rights solved in the files of the Unheeded Warning murder Case. The part of Inspector Hearthstone was played by Alfred Shirley and was written by Frank Hummert, directed by Henry Howard and is a presentation of CBS Radio. Listen in next Thursday at this same time for Hearthstone of the Death Star Squad in the Lost Wife murder case. Here is another CBS Radio treat coming up right after station identification. On most of these same stations, it's Joan Caulfield and Jeffrey Lynn in Accent on Youth, putting the accent on comedy in your Broadway Playhouse. You'll enjoy this modern comedy about modern young folks in hilarious human adventures when you hear Broadway Playhouse, which follows immediately over most of these same stations. And remember, on the CBS Radio Network, Fridays, Western swing is footloose and Fancy free on the Spade Cooley Show. Listen for Hearthstone of the Death Squad in the Lost Wife murder case at this same time next Thursday night. Your announcer is our tennis. This is the CBS Radio Network.