Inner Sanctum 41-12-28 Death Has Claws

Summary

Summary of Podcast Episode: Inner Sanctum 41-12-28 "Death Has Claws"

---

Introduction

"Death Has Claws," an episode from the Inner Sanctum series hosted by Raymond, transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio. This episode masterfully blends mystery, psychological drama, and ethical dilemmas, centering around disturbed sleep, mysterious cat disturbances, and a subsequent murder investigation. Featuring Dennis Ortega as Gerald Hagen, the narrative unfolds in a tenement on Bailey Street, weaving suspense and intricate character dynamics that captivate from start to finish.

---

Plot Summary

1. Setting the Scene

The story begins in the early hours of a morning on Bailey Street. Raymond, the host, sets a tense atmosphere by describing the restless neighborhood backdrop:

• Raymond [00:04]: "Good evening friends. This is Raymond, your host of the Inner Sanctum. Yeah, she's bidding you welcome once again..."

This introduction immerses the audience into a world where nightly disturbances are the norm, priming them for the unfolding mystery.

2. Introduction of Gerald Hagen

Gerald Hagen, portrayed by Dennis Ortega, is introduced as a tenant in the tenement whose sleep has been repeatedly disturbed by howling cats:

• Gerald Hagen [02:50]: "He ain't gonna break up my sleep anymore."

Hagen's frustration becomes the catalyst for the ensuing conflict, positioning him as a pivotal character whose actions drive the plot forward.

3. Conflict: Disturbed Sleep and Aggression

Hagen's sleeplessness leads him to a confrontation with Raymond, who serves both as the narrator and an active participant in the investigation:

• Raymond [03:07]: "Who do you intend to kill with that bat?"
• Gerald Hagen [03:12]: "Those blasted cats. I haven't been able to sleep for three nights."

The dialogue escalates tension, highlighting Hagen's desperation and willingness to take drastic measures to restore his peace.

4. Ethical Dilemma and Moral Standoff

Raymond attempts to dissuade Hagen from harming the cats, presenting an ethical argument:

• Raymond [03:12]: "It isn't right to take the life of a defenseless animal."
• Gerald Hagen [03:20]: "You're defenseless."

This exchange underscores the moral complexities within the story, juxtaposing Raymond's empathy with Hagen's aggression.

5. Investigation Unfolds

As the narrative progresses, the plot thickens with the discovery of a murder:

• Raymond [07:43]: "Anyone who committed a murder would get away from the scene as fast as he could."

The introduction of Sergeant Gerald Hagen (same name, possibly the same person under investigation) adds layers to the mystery, raising suspicions about Hagen's involvement.

6. Gerald Hagen as a Suspect

Hagen’s behavior and his obsession with his cats make him a prime suspect in the murder investigation. His inability to recall details about the night of the murder despite having scratches on his hand further deepens the intrigue:

• Raymond [09:47]: "Scratch on your hand. Where did you get it?"
• Gerald Hagen [09:48]: "I didn't kill Mr. Ker. I have no reason to kill him or anyone else."

Despite his denials, the circumstantial evidence places Hagen under scrutiny.

7. Confrontations and Rising Tension

The story reaches a fever pitch as Raymond and the police close in on Hagen. A pivotal moment occurs when Hagen’s cat, Apollo, is mistakenly killed by the police during a tense standoff:

• Gerald Hagen [16:35]: "You shoot my cat?"
• Raymond [18:19]: "This is my cat."

Hagen's devastation over his beloved pet fuels his determination to seek vengeance, propelling the narrative towards its climax.

8. Climactic Resolution

In the final confrontation, Hagen fully reveals his motives, admitting to multiple murders driven by his extreme protectiveness over his cats. His psychological unraveling is evident as he vows retribution against those he holds responsible:

• Gerald Hagen [25:33]: "My own two hands. Who's there?"
• Raymond [25:19]: "Any of you run any closer."

The culmination of the investigation sees Hagen apprehended, bringing closure to the mystery while highlighting the tragic consequences of his obsession.

---

Character Analysis

Gerald Hagen

Gerald Hagen is depicted as a deeply troubled individual whose love for his cats transcends normal affectionate bounds, tipping into obsession. His actions, driven by a need to silence the nocturnal disturbances, reveal a character grappling with inner demons and a fragile grip on reality. Hagen's moral descent and eventual breakdown underscore the tragic dimensions of his persona.

Raymond (Host/Protagonist)

Raymond serves dual roles as both the narrator and a proactive figure in the investigation. His ethical stance against Hagen's actions positions him as the moral compass of the story. Raymond's interactions with Hagen highlight themes of justice, empathy, and the struggle between right and wrong.

Other Key Characters

• Mrs. Jackson and Robert: Introduced later, they represent the broader impact of the murder on the community, embodying fear and uncertainty within the tenement.
• Sergeant: Acts as Raymond's partner in the investigation, aiding in the procedural aspects of solving the mystery.

---

Themes and Insights

1. Obsession and Its Consequences

• Hagen's fixation on his cats and the lengths he goes to protect them illustrate how obsession can lead to destructive behavior.

2. Ethical Treatment of Animals

• The moral debate over harming defenseless animals underscores broader questions about empathy and responsibility.

3. Community and Isolation

• The tenement setting reflects how close living quarters can strain relationships, leading to distrust and fear among neighbors.

4. Justice and Vigilantism

• Hagen’s role as both a tenant disturbed by external factors and a potential perpetrator of vigilante justice adds complexity to the concept of righting wrongs.

---

Notable Quotes

• Gerald Hagen on His Frustration:

  • "[02:50] Gerald Hagen: He ain't gonna break up my sleep anymore."

• Raymond's Ethical Stance:

  • "[03:12] Raymond: It isn't right to take the life of a defenseless animal."

• Hagen's Emotional Declaration:

  • "[22:08] Gerald Hagen: He killed my pet in cold blood. How I hate them."

• Climactic Confrontation:

  • "[25:19] Raymond: Put that knife down."

• Final Admission:

  • "[26:27] Gerald Hagen: You pay Because I watch over my."

---

Conclusion

"Death Has Claws" is a compelling installment of the Inner Sanctum series that intricately weaves suspense, character depth, and moral quandaries into its narrative fabric. Through Gerald Hagen's tragic descent and Raymond's pursuit of justice, the episode explores timeless themes that resonate with listeners. The masterful use of dialogue, coupled with the atmospheric tension characteristic of the Golden Age of Radio, makes this episode a standout example of effective storytelling in audio drama.

Listeners are left contemplating the fine line between protection and obsession, as well as the ethical implications of taking justice into one's own hands. "Death Has Claws" not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful reflection on human behavior and societal norms.

Transcript

[Raymond]

Inner Sanctum Mystery starring Santos at Brought to you by the makers of Carter's Little Liverpool. The best friends to your financial position. Good evening friends. This is Raymond, your host of the Inn at Sanctum. Yeah, she's bidding you welcome once again. Come in, make yourselves comfortable. That is as comfortable as you can around this very strange man we're going to introduce to now. Yes, he's quite a character. Someone who hates you one and all. But don't be alarmed, there are plenty of others here just to frighten the Duke. So do join us because misery loves company. Interster Mysteries brings you one of radio's best known stars, Mr. Dennis Ortega. Silas Ortega appears as Gerald Hagen in Death as Plum, an original radio drama by Sigmund Tiller. Presented to your entertainment by the makers of Carter's Little Liverpool. The Lifetime with the two way action. Everybody knows what the name Carters at Oliver Field means. That's why for over 60 years folks have bought them and taken them with confidence whenever a gentle efficient like the Bill knows too that the name Carter's little Liver bills also means added help. Because they wake up the flow of a very important digestive juice. When this juice goes at the rate nature intended, it helps tone up the digestive system so that most folks can can lose that bo down grumpy listless feeling that so often accompanies pluggish lazy G. So take advantage of this time tested two way release and always ask your druggist for genuine Carter's little Liverpill. The best friend to your sunny disposition. The early hours of the morning in the backyard of a tenement house on Bailey Street. Mr. Tersch, one of the tenants, has just rushed downstairs from his apartment in a fury. For the third night in succession his sleep has been disturbed by cat howling in the alley.

[Gerald Hagen]

He ain't gonna break up my sleep anymore.

[Raymond]

Hello. Didn't expect to find anyone here at this hour. You're Mr. Hagen, aren't you? Yes, Mr. Chesh. Who do you intend to kill with that bat?

[Gerald Hagen]

Those blasted cats. I haven't been able to sleep for three nights.

[Raymond]

I'm all worn out. I wouldn't do that if I were you, Mr. Sesh. It isn't right to take the life of a defenseless animal.

[Gerald Hagen]

Your pensless.

[Raymond]

What about me? My sleep is more important than the miserable life of one of these pets. Bad luck to kill a cat. Bad luck my eye. Whoa, I get it. You're the guy who keeps the house full of cats. I have three cats. I don't care how many cats you have or whose pet they are. They ain't gonna howl anymore in this child when I'm through with them. I warn you, Mr. Cat. Leave those cats alone. I tell you, it's bad luck to kill any of these beautiful creatures. Oh, crackpot. Can't argue with a crackpot.

[Gerald Hagen]

The meat cats are disgusting.

[Raymond]

Can't even bear to touch them. They're the most beautiful creatures in the world. Maybe they are to you, but they won't be so beautiful after I get through with them. You have better go back to sleep and leave the cats alone. Go back to sleep yourself. What are you doing up at this hour anyway? I had a premonition that Apollo was in danger. The devil is Apollo. My silver great Persian fur of the finest text. You're nuts, Mr. Hayden. I'm going to get those taxes attacks all night. Go back to your apartment. You pull the forest school I There they are. Hey, don't Mr. C. But I am going to get them. Never strike at them again.

[Gerald Hagen]

Let me go.

[Raymond]

Yeah, I want you. I won't leave them alone. You kill my cubs.

[Gerald Hagen]

Would you.

[Raymond]

Call? You will never call them not a again. You're dead, you loathsome poor you. W and louch. And I'll kill anyone else who dares to lay a hand on my beloved friend. I must be federated. Throw it away. There you are, my beautiful one. Come sit back before you Mrs. Kir?

[Gerald Hagen]

Yes, he's Mrs. Ker.

[Raymond]

I sorry Mrs. Kirsch, if you'll have to answer a few questions. My poor granny.

[Gerald Hagen]

You scared.

[Raymond]

What was your husband doing in the yard?

[Gerald Hagen]

I scared him not to go downstairs. I wouldn't listen crazy. I couldn't speak.

[Raymond]

Did anybody hate your husband? Was he ever threatened?

[Gerald Hagen]

Hate him?

[Raymond]

He only hated my daddy.

[Gerald Hagen]

He never bothered anyone. He was a good hardworking husband.

[Raymond]

You know what time he left the house.

[Gerald Hagen]

Too?

[Raymond]

And when did you go down to look for it?

[Gerald Hagen]

I couldn't understand what sentence really Find me on his death to die. Oh, you screamed.

[Raymond]

I can't remember anything after that.

[Gerald Hagen]

Oh, granny.

[Raymond]

Well, that'll be all now. Come on Sergeant, go through the rest of the house. We're going to investigate every tenant in this building. This isn't robbery. Wallet was found alongside the body. No thief would stop them to your wallet. Anyone who committed a murder would get away from the scene as fast as he could. Let's go Sergeant. We'll start from the first floor and work our way up. Who's there? Open up.

[Gerald Hagen]

It's the police.

[Raymond]

What's the matter? Is anything wrong? One of your neighbors, Dan Kush, was murdered about an hour ago. Kirsch murder. Oh, terrible. What's your name? My name's Gerald Hagen. How come you didn't hear anything? I was asleep. You sleep? Sleep very soundly? Yes, I do. Strange that you slept through all this. Very common. Do you sleep at this hour? Be unusual if I weren't. Where do you sleep, Eam? In the bedroom. Well, I am. Question was a bit obvious. They're just a little too cool to suit me. Most anyone would be shocked and horrified. Being awakened in the middle of the night, told that a neighbor was murdered. That's my nature to be excitable. I think it's a good way to be. I'll take a look at your bed. Follow me. Rumble. All right. What are you doing? Just feeling it. It's not too warm? I'm sorry. It cooled off. How long were you asleep? I went to sleep a little before midnight. And you heard nothing? No, sir. Nothing at all. I can't hear anything when I speak. Are you sure you didn't hear a scream? No, I didn't. What's your hand?

[Gerald Hagen]

A fork.

[Raymond]

I said. Let's see your hands. All right. Here they are. Nothing strange unusual about them. Scratch on your hand. Where did you get it? If you look closely, you'll see that it's a few days old. I didn't kill Mr. Ker. I have no reason to kill him or anyone else. I'm a peaceful, law abiding citizen. Did you know Mr. Ker? Not very well. I nodded to him whenever I found the Hagen be used. Live alone? Yes. What are you doing for a living? I'm retired. All right, Aan. I guess that's all right now. Good night, Austin. I hope you find a criminal. We will. Why don't you look where you're going? You kept my cat tail. Hey, wait a minute. Dan Cur was killed trying to get rid of cat. Which have been disturbing. At least your cat might have been one of us. Very pl. You love cat, don't you? Yes. I'm quite fond of them. I have two. So you have three. That's right. There are four or five other families in this to keep cat. I guess there are millions of people who own them as pets. There's nothing strange that's fair about keeping pets. Nothing strange about keeping the pets for free. Is something different. I'm going now. But I'll be back. There's nothing I can spin on you. But somehow I feel that you know more than you appear to know. You look into this more thoroughly later. Good night, you contemptible meddler. Oh, I'd like to sit with my arms around your miserable throat and squeeze it under your eyes bulging, your face turn purple. I control myself. Afraid, Alex? I can be calm when you subject but I can also strike with the lightning speed of a cat. Beware of my foolish meddling officer. Beware of my irresistible fury.

[Gerald Hagen]

Yeah.

[Raymond]

It'S you she mighty one. You want to be correct, don't you? Being asleep. What should I do but depend upon the hours and times of your design? Now I wonder if any of Gerald Hagen's cats are pl. And if they are, you can take the word of Raymond, your host here and the inner sanction that I won't let them cross your breath. But I guess you'd prefer a cat drawer to Gerald Hagen wouldn't. Now he doesn't seem to like halfway measures. No. And wise folks who need a laxative don't like halfway measures either when two way hop is probably needed. That's why they take Carter's little liver pills, the laxative with this dependable two way action. First, others little liper pills relieve irregularity gently. Second, they wake up the flame of a very important digestive juice, usually within a half hour. This digestive juice is a vital aid in toning up a lazy digestive system and helps most folks enjoy the happy sense of well being that goes with the normal and proper digestion of food. So next time you need relief from the groom of irregularity and a flow of digestions, don't go after them in a half hearted way. Ask for Carter's little Liverpool, the time tested laxative that helped in more ways than one. Now. Now back to our interstellar mystery. You'd like another minute? Oh no. I'm sorry but we can't keep Hagen waiting. He so impatient he's liable to do anything. But don't be afraid. I'm always with you. The following night in the apartment of Mrs. Jackson, a widow living with her son Robert. He's the next door neighbor of Hagen. The whole tenement is frightened out of his wits by the murder of Fanny Kirsch. And Mrs. Jackson is no exception. She radio police working on the Kirsch murder case a little long murdered man's money was discovered near the spot where the body was found torn to shred. Residents of Bailing street are asked to cooperate with the police by reporting any suspicious character immediately and to take extra precautions until the criminal is apprehended. The man may be a deranged killer.

[Gerald Hagen]

And how to sport the busy Good. Something's a meddling. Aubrey, come here. It's time for you to go to bed. Darling, I have a surprise for you. How would you like to sleep in Mommy's bed?

[Raymond]

You Mary? Yes, darling.

[Gerald Hagen]

Both of us together. And you can have a holiday tomorrow. And I have to go to school. No, you can stay home with Mommy all day. Bobby.

[Raymond]

Hi.

[Gerald Hagen]

My hands cold. Mommy. What's happening in this house, y'? All? Who's there?

[Raymond]

Just got a telephone call that a suspicious looking child was seen going into this house. Hear anybody walking past you jar?

[Gerald Hagen]

Yes, someone seemed to be in a hurry. That's.

[Raymond]

Where'd he go?

[Gerald Hagen]

Well, it seemed to me as if he were going up. Scared then I'm not sure, but I thought I heard footsteps in the vacant apartment directly above me.

[Raymond]

Thank you, ma'.

[Gerald Hagen]

Am.

[Raymond]

This one is empty.

[Gerald Hagen]

This one off.

[Raymond]

You heard quickest. Named the apartment. Better take a look. All right, keep your gun ready. We don't know who's in there. You in there. Come on up. Turn the knob and leave the door open, my foot. There's no one in this room. Come on. We look to the rest of the apartment. There's no one here. Wait. The window's open. Leads the roof. You go around through the hallway. I'll go through a fire escape. Did you notice anything? No, but plenty places to hide.

[Gerald Hagen]

Just a minute.

[Raymond]

There's something behind that ledge.

[Gerald Hagen]

Yeah, I hear something.

[Raymond]

Come on out. Shoot. Shoot at the first thing that moves from that ledge. It's only a cat. Too bad we can't take any chances with the dangerous killer on the loose. Come on. We'll take another look around. My cat. Huh? What have they done to my cat? Oh, it's you, Aan. What are you doing here? I've had my cat. Screen. What have you done to him? Well, we shot him by accident. My beautiful Apollo. You heartless purchase. Take it easy, Hagen. And watch your tongue. We didn't mean to kill your cat. We just aren't taking chances with a dangerous killer on the loose.

[Gerald Hagen]

My good father, I wouldn't let you live. I wouldn't.

[Raymond]

Where are you going with that cat? Leave me alone.

[Gerald Hagen]

You've done your job.

[Raymond]

Better call the FBCA or the Department of Sanitation to get rid of that dead animal. Sanitation? My cat is just refused it gotten rid of like a pail of garbage. It was a living and beautiful animal a moment ago. It had a life. A heart, consciousness, feeling, dignity. This life was as important to it as all I did to you. How Dare you call it garbage. I didn't call it anything. Give me Brad. This is my cat. To my room. You better get rid of it fast before it begins to deteriorate. That's my business. There is a queer egg, that guy. Queer enough to do anything. Beloved Brandon. They killed you. Brutal, unfeeling descendants of hate drive you. I laid it down on your favorite cushion. Your life meant nothing to them. Nothing at all. To them you were only a cat, another animal. What do they know about your superb grave or exquisite keeping your head erect with dignity? You answers. And you, Sheba, my only remaining friend. They've killed our impala. No more will he sit on my lap. No more will I soak his rich blood and never to hear its sweet hurrying again. I shan't go unpunished, I swear. I wipe that murderer from the face of the earth. I kill him by degrees, make him feel the torture, suffering of slow suffocation as weeds of breast from him until he breaks with his eyes for pity, until the must have cracked in his throat till his brow becomes dark with a cold touch of death. I promise you, Sheba Empress, I won't rest until you do it dead by.

[Gerald Hagen]

My own two hands. Who's there?

[Raymond]

Guy Hagen.

[Gerald Hagen]

Who?

[Raymond]

Hagen, your next door neighbor.

[Gerald Hagen]

Oh. Oh, I'm sorry I made you wait, Mr. Hagen, but I'm so nervous. You can't be too sure in this house anymore. Every time I hear a knock on.

[Raymond]

The door, my heart jumps into my mouth. I don't think there's anything more to worry about.

[Gerald Hagen]

You don't think the maniac will come back?

[Raymond]

I don't think it was a man's suggestion.

[Gerald Hagen]

You don't? What makes you think.

[Raymond]

Oh, I don't know. I just think.

[Gerald Hagen]

Mr. Hagen. I heard about Depressing till last night. He was such a beautiful animal. And so not.

[Raymond]

He killed my pet in cold blood. How I hate them.

[Gerald Hagen]

No, but I wouldn't be. After all, they didn't mean to do.

[Raymond]

All I know is that they shot Apollo. I'm worried about my other cat, Sheba. Have you seen her doll today?

[Gerald Hagen]

Yes, she was in the hall a little while ago. Oh, I tell you, Mr. Higgin, this house is giving me a nervous breakdown. I haven't let Bobby go to school for two days. How much did I know what to do? I have too much shopping to do and I'm afraid to leave him alone. Tell me, would it be too much trouble, Mr. Hayden, if I asked you to stay with Bobby while I did some shopping?

[Raymond]

Well, of course, Mrs. Jackson, I'll get to what you're going on.

[Gerald Hagen]

Oh, thank you so much. I'll just get my purse. I won't be more than 15 minutes.

[Raymond]

That's all right. No need to worry. There's nothing special to do anyway. Here you are, my darling Sheba. Been hiding in the hall, haven't you?

[Gerald Hagen]

Now, you be a good boy, Bob. You know he's missing. Mommy.

[Raymond]

So you're having a holiday, are you, Bobby?

[Gerald Hagen]

Yes, Ms. Hagen. Mine wants me to stay home.

[Raymond]

What's that?

[Gerald Hagen]

You know, 1 8, 4. Certain first or second seed.

[Raymond]

That's very good. You know any form?

[Gerald Hagen]

Yeah, I know. Hickory dickory dock. You hear it?

[Raymond]

Come on, don't be shy. I tell you what. If you recite a poem, I recite one of them.

[Gerald Hagen]

You're proud.

[Raymond]

Yes, I'm proud.

[Gerald Hagen]

Hickory, hickory dot. The mouse came out the prop. The cops kept worm and down he ran.

[Raymond]

Hippory.

[Gerald Hagen]

Hickory dot.

[Raymond]

Very good.

[Gerald Hagen]

Now you're inside.

[Raymond]

All right. Pussycat, pussycat, where have you been? I went to London to see the queen. Pussycat, Wookie cat. What did you there? I frightened a little mouse under her.

[Gerald Hagen]

Tell me more.

[Raymond]

All right. You know this one. Ding dong bell, Pushy's a little way.

[Gerald Hagen]

You already recited one about a cat. Not the only one. About a dog.

[Raymond]

Don't you like cats?

[Gerald Hagen]

That dog's better. I wish I had a dog.

[Raymond]

They're disgusting.

[Gerald Hagen]

I like dogs. Very kind, sir. And cat.

[Raymond]

Be quiet, you little fool. What do you know about cats? Nothing at all.

[Gerald Hagen]

Are you mad at me, Mr. Hazen?

[Raymond]

I don't like little boys who don't know what they're talking about.

[Gerald Hagen]

Oh, I would kill you for your tear For I can pick up your by the neck. Get your hands off of your little tr.

[Raymond]

Just like the rest of your breed.

[Gerald Hagen]

I'll take care of you.

[Raymond]

You never hurt.

[Gerald Hagen]

What are you doing to my boy? You crazy.

[Raymond]

Torment my cat, will you?

[Gerald Hagen]

Neither of you.

[Raymond]

Don't come any near.

[Gerald Hagen]

I got a knife.

[Raymond]

Any of you run any closer.

[Gerald Hagen]

Hold off him over.

[Raymond]

Put that knife down.

[Gerald Hagen]

Ha.

[Raymond]

You haven't got a chance. I warn you, give away. You haven't a chance. Hannah, this close that captain. I'll let you feel my fingers around your throat. You don't put that knife down immediately, I'm going to shoot your captain. I'll kill you.

[Gerald Hagen]

All right, boy.

[Raymond]

Take her to the bedroom.

[Gerald Hagen]

She's painted it.

[Raymond]

All right, sonny. Your mother's all right. Take him in with his mother. Oh, we got you at last, Ms. Monigam. I have been Keeping a close watch on you for the past few days. Did you kill Dan Kirsch? Yes, I killed him. Can I do it again? He does kill a fellow with a bat. He got what he deserved. Did you kill anyone else? Yes. Last year, a fellow by the name of Weaver ran over one of my cats. I got his license number. A week later, I caught him in the hallway of his house. He'll never run over any more cats. You're a homicidal maniac, Higgin. A maniac.

[Gerald Hagen]

You pay Because I watch over my.

[Raymond]

Cats and keep them from harm. I'm the only one here with even a spark of decency. I understand the nobility of cats. The only two friends I've had. They never deserted me, no matter what happened. That's more than I can say of their human. My partner cheated me out of my money. My wife and all my friends left me when I lost my wealth. But my cat. They've been my only true friend. Take him into the wagon. Well, must admit Hagen's murder motive was something unusual. But it's sad now, if any of you ever threw a shoe at someone's cat nowing in your backyard. I'd advise you to leave quietly now and go home with friends tonight. Well, it's about time to close the door to the inner sanctum until this same time next Sunday evening. Listen in, won't you? And entice your friends too, also. Oh, by the way, you happen to know anyone who's looking for a pet, we have two cats roaming around here who need a good home. Their names Cuba and Empress. Well, here they are right now. I'll just put your name and address on a slip of paper and under the squeaking door. And if you want to name a good mystery story, there's the title of this month. Dennis Hankton Novel the Death of a Novelist by Sally Wood. During the holidays, when the spirit of giving is in the air, don't forget, two ways you can give right now that means so much. Give to the Red Cross. It needs your help as never before. And two, give to Uncle Sam. Give him more power to defend America by buying United States defense funds and saving stamps. Buy all that you can today and every day. Well, the attention, mystery fan. One of the first things a detective looks for is a motive and all important reason. What do you think it was that prompted John Gordon to say to his wife, if I have to show Aunt May and Uncle Tim around again tomorrow, I'll be a nervous wreck?

[Gerald Hagen]

Why, you've been looking forward to showing them this sight for weeks.

[Raymond]

That's right. Put me in the wrong way you are.

[Gerald Hagen]

Don't you suppose they can see how grousy and irritable you've become, even with me?

[Raymond]

Oh, don't be silly.

[Gerald Hagen]

I'm not. John, you haven't been your cheerful self for days. Why don't you please reply and get your good disposition back again?

[Raymond]

How can I when I feel so wozy and sluggish?

[Gerald Hagen]

By Carter's Little Liverpool.

[Raymond]

Right. And when you don't feel good, fry tartars that'll live a pill. They do the work of calomel but have no calomel in them for they are simple bills made of vegetable grass. They wake up the flow of one of our most phyto suggested juices. When this phyto juice grows at the rate of about two pints a day, it helps to digest our food and bring back the glorious feeling that goes with regularity. Then most folks feel like happy days are here again. But be sure you get the genuine CarterSaviddle Liverpool 25 cents at all drug stores. This is the Blue Network operated by the National Broadcasting Company.