Intrigue 46-08-14 003 Sinister Errand

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Intrigue 46-08-14 003 Sinister Errand"

Episode Information

• Title: Intrigue 46-08-14 003 Sinister Errand
• Release Date: March 22, 2025
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: A thrilling episode set in the Golden Age of Radio, featuring espionage, undercover agents, and sinister plots in wartime London.

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Introduction

"Sinister Errand," the third installment in the "Intrigue" series, immerses listeners in a suspenseful tale of espionage and betrayal set against the backdrop of blacked-out London during wartime. Hosted by the iconic Vincent Price, this episode masterfully weaves a narrative of undercover operations, hidden agendas, and the relentless pursuit of a coveted secret.

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Main Characters

• Michael Kells: A seasoned British undercover agent tasked with retrieving a vital envelope containing microfilm reductions of enemy technology.
• Vincent Price: Narrator and voice of authority, providing exposition and guiding the listener through the unfolding drama.
• Ernie Guelvada: An enigmatic operative shadowing Michael, later revealed to be an antagonist manipulating events from the shadows.
• Janine Carew: Sammy Carew's wife, a performer with deep ties to the espionage world, whose true loyalties become pivotal to the plot.

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Plot Overview

Opening Confrontation (00:58 - 04:12)

The episode opens with Michael Kells receiving a cryptic directive from his superior, Vincent Price, urging him to meet a contact in Mulberry Street without prior communication. Michael expresses reluctance, fearing another perilous assignment so soon.

Michael Kells (00:09): "Jack, it's Michael Kells. I just got off the boat train. Shall I come around to your office?"
Vincent Price (02:12): "You guessed it, lad. And we'll contact you from now on. Don't telephone me again under any circumstances."

Encounter with Ernie Guelvada (02:31 - 04:13)

Upon arriving at Mulberry Street, Michael meets Ernie Guelvada, who subtly introduces himself while hinting at the looming threat of new rocket bombs targeting London. Their conversation underscores the escalating danger and the sophistication of enemy tactics.

Ernie Guelvada (03:03): "Speak up. Why did you stop here? Listen. You hear that? A buzzing sound. That's one of the new rocket bombs."

Discovery of Sammy Carew's Fate (05:00 - 11:24)

Michael recounts his investigation into the mysterious death of Sammy Carew, a trusted British intelligence agent. He describes the grim scene he discovered—Sammy's disheveled apartment and the haunting evidence of betrayal and violence.

Michael Kells (05:00): "I went in and climbed the first flight of stairs. At the top of it, the door of a room was standing open, and something inside caught my eye. It was a necktie hanging over the mirror post of an ugly fumed oak dresser... lying face down on the floor in the middle of the room, a knife handle sticking out of the small of his back, was Sammy Carew."

Introduction of Janine Carew (06:42 - 12:29)

As Michael delves deeper, he encounters Janine Carew, Sammy's widow, who appears distraught and unaware of the full extent of her husband's secretive life. Their interaction is laden with tension as Michael begins to suspect Janine's potential involvement in the espionage activities.

Janine Carew (07:12): "Probably because I've spent so much time on the continent. I'm in the theater, you see."

Interplay with Ernie Guelvada (13:11 - 17:34)

Ernie reappears, revealing his true intentions and attempting to manipulate Michael into betraying Janine. His threats and manipulations highlight the ever-present danger and the blurred lines between allies and adversaries.

Ernie Guelvada (13:31): "Give me one hour with that Janine in a sample room and she will tell the whole plan. Names, everything you need."

The Trap at the Seven Arts Theater (21:25 - 24:44)

Michael, guided by Ernie's clues, infiltrates Auntie's apartment on Canoe Street, where he discovers the missing envelope. This leads him into a deadly trap orchestrated by Ravalo, an antagonist masquerading as a legitimate operative. The confrontation culminates in a high-stakes standoff in a soundproof basement, where Vincent Price's narration intensifies the suspense.

Michael Kells (22:34): "Thank you for finding that, Mr. Kells. Now will you please hand it over?"
Ernie Guelvada (22:57): "Ah, Michael. Little friend. I trust I am not late."

Climactic Showdown and Resolution (24:54 - 28:34)

As the plot reaches its zenith, Michael outsmarts Ravalo by impersonating a superior officer, leading to the capture of the antagonistic forces. The successful retrieval of the envelope ensures the safety of England from the enemy's advanced weaponry. The episode concludes with Michael reflecting on the day's events and the personal cost of espionage.

Michael Kells (24:56): "A special directive from the fira. ... I think I've been rather clever all along the line, mister."

Vincent Price (25:02): "Well, I shan't worry about one getting away. We got the documents and we've broken the unit. And now I'd best call Scotland Yard and have your prisoners brought in from Rodney Place."

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Michael Kells (00:09): "Jack, it's Michael Kells. I just got off the boat train. Shall I come around to your office?"

• Vincent Price (02:12): "You guessed it, lad. And we'll contact you from now on. Don't telephone me again under any circumstances."

• Ernie Guelvada (03:03): "Speak up. Why did you stop here? Listen. You hear that? A buzzing sound. That's one of the new rocket bombs."

• Michael Kells (05:00): "I went in and climbed the first flight of stairs... lying face down on the floor in the middle of the room, a knife handle sticking out of the small of his back, was Sammy Carew."

• Janine Carew (07:12): "Probably because I've spent so much time on the continent. I'm in the theater, you see."

• Ernie Guelvada (13:31): "Give me one hour with that Janine in a sample room and she will tell the whole plan."

• Michael Kells (24:56): "A special directive from the fira. ... I think I've been rather clever all along the line, mister."

• Vincent Price (25:02): "We got the documents and we've broken the unit. And now I'd best call Scotland Yard and have your prisoners brought in from Rodney Place."

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Themes and Insights

"Sinister Errand" delves deep into the perilous world of espionage, highlighting themes such as trust, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities faced by undercover agents. The narrative underscores the personal sacrifices made in the name of national security and the intricate dance of deception that defines the intelligence community.

The character of Janine Carew serves as a poignant example of how personal relationships are often entwined with professional obligations, leading to complex emotional and ethical dilemmas. Meanwhile, the antagonist's manipulation showcases the relentless nature of enemy operatives and the lengths they will go to achieve their objectives.

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Conclusion

"Sinister Errand" stands out as a compelling episode that captures the essence of Golden Age radio thrillers. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and masterful narration by Vincent Price, the episode offers listeners a gripping journey through the shadowy corridors of wartime espionage. Harold's Old Time Radio continues to excel in resurrecting the magic of classic radio dramas, delivering timeless stories that resonate with both nostalgic audiences and new listeners alike.

Transcript

[American Giant]

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[Vincent Price]

CBS presents Intrigue Tales of espionage Manhunt and I adventure with Vincent Price as this evening star.

[Michael Kells]

This is the exciting and sinister story of a little group of British undercover agents fighting against desperate counter espionage. Hazarding their lives against the unseen and unknown forces of enemy operatives in the heart of blacked out London. When the fate of the world hung on the outcome of a game played by a handful of ruthless men and women. Come with us once again on a journey into the shadowy, uneasy, fascinating land of intrigue.

[Vincent Price]

With Vincent Price, star of Dragon Wick and the role of Michael Kels. The Columbia Broadcasting System presents Sinister Errand. This evening's story of intrigue. Carson speaking.

[Michael Kells]

Jack, it's Michael Kell.

[Vincent Price]

I know it.

[Michael Kells]

I just got off the boat train. Shall I come around to your office?

[Vincent Price]

By no means. Take a at the first stand, third in the rank. Tell the driver Mulberry Street. If it's the right man. He won't ask the number. He'll know where to drive.

[Michael Kells]

Now look here, Jack. You aren't starting me off on another job so soon, are you?

[Vincent Price]

You guessed it, lad. And we'll contact you from now on. Don't telephone me again under any circumstances.

[Michael Kells]

Wait a moment. Jaque. What's up? Who's my contact? Are you there? Jacques? Hello. Hello.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Where to, sir?

[Michael Kells]

Mulberry Street.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Yes, sir. Been away long, huh?

[Michael Kells]

Somebody tell you to ask me that?

[Ernie Guelvada]

One of those new buzz bombs landed in the end of Mulberry street the other night. Maybe you will be surprised when you see Mulberry street, huh?

[Michael Kells]

You're not English, are you?

[Ernie Guelvada]

I'm Baltic.

[Michael Kells]

Belgian, eh? Been here long?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Maybe somebody told you to ask me that.

[Michael Kells]

I say, why are you stopping here? Don't try anything, my Belgian friend.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Please put away the gun. Makes me nervous.

[Michael Kells]

Speak up. Why did you stop here? Listen. You hear that? A buzzing sound. That's one of the new rocket bombs.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Coming this way too.

[Michael Kells]

Why? No warning? Comes too fast.

[Ernie Guelvada]

No time for.

[Michael Kells]

Stopped. What's happened? That is the way they were.

[Ernie Guelvada]

The mechanism shuts off just before they landed.

[Michael Kells]

Taking it a long time. Maybe it's a dud.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Do not be nervous.

[Michael Kells]

You will get accustomed.

[Vincent Price]

Phew.

[Michael Kells]

What a blast.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Now maybe you begin to see what things are like in London. Only one thing has saved us so far.

[Michael Kells]

Oh, what's that they do not know.

[Ernie Guelvada]

How close to their targets these things are hitting. So far, their agents have not been able to get any reports through to building on it. If they ever do, they will be able to aim them accurately and that will be the end for England.

[Michael Kells]

I should think Herr Himmler would be sending some of his very smartest agents over here to accomplish that mission.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Apparently, that has already been done. They have set up a special unit outside the regular espionage services. Created an entirely new field of activity, you understand, as yet unknown to our interceptors and counter agents.

[Michael Kells]

So that's the way of it, eh?

[Ernie Guelvada]

That is the way of it, Mr. Kells. That is their sinister errand.

[Michael Kells]

Who is it?

[Vincent Price]

The waiter, sir. Your coffee, sir.

[Michael Kells]

Oh, thank you. Put it down there anywhere.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, sir. Unpack your bag, sir?

[Michael Kells]

Later on, if you like.

[Vincent Price]

You came in so late. And just after the buzz. Vomit with all the excitement. I'm afraid we've rather neglected.

[Michael Kells]

You know where it is?

[Vincent Price]

If I did, I wouldn't say, sir.

[Michael Kells]

Good for you.

[Vincent Price]

I brought you the breakfast menu, sir. Have a look, sir. This item, for instance. Chef recommends it.

[Michael Kells]

Oh, yes?

[Vincent Price]

Well, sir.

[Michael Kells]

Tell your chef I'll try that item. The item was an address scribbled in pencil on the menu. 23 Canoe Street. It had the look of a shabby lodging house. I went in and climbed the first flight of stairs. At the top of it, the door of a room was standing open, and something inside caught my eye. It was a necktie hanging over the mirror post of an ugly fumed oak dresser. The tie was a nice heavy Spitalfield silk in gray and black, the sort of thing Sammy Carou always used to wear. That was my contact then. Sammy Carew, one of the best agents in British intelligence. I tiptoed into the doorway, hoping to give him the start. And then I was the one who got the start. Lying face down on the floor in the middle of the room, a knife handle sticking out of the small of his back, was Sammy Carew. I took a quick look around the room. Sammy's clothes were scattered about in utter confusion, pockets cut, linings ripped out. The mattress on the bed had been ripped open and disemboweled. A few feathers from the pillows still floated in the air. Then I noticed a peculiar thing. A trail of blood led from the bed to the place where Sammy had fallen. And a few inches from his outstretched hand, there was a bowl heaped high with feathers. I picked it up and examined it. Nothing there. Just a heap of feathers. Suddenly, I heard a step behind me and wheeled around.

[Janine Carew]

Who are you? What's happened here?

[Michael Kells]

Looks as if someone had been murdered. Who are you? It's.

[Janine Carew]

Oh no, it's not Sammy.

[Michael Kells]

That was the name I knew him by.

[Janine Carew]

Oh, my poor boy. My poor, poor boy.

[Michael Kells]

You knew Sammy quite well.

[Janine Carew]

I'm. I was his aunt.

[Michael Kells]

Sammy's aunt was 5ft 3 inches tall with gray hair. You're about 5ft 7 with red hair.

[Janine Carew]

Bad guess, my boy. I'm 5 foot 4 and my hair has dyed. And people have been known to have more than one aunt.

[Michael Kells]

Sammy never mentioned having another aunt.

[Janine Carew]

Probably because I've spent so much time on the continent. I'm in the theater, you see.

[Michael Kells]

What theatre of operations would that be, auntie? Or would you rather not say?

[Janine Carew]

Oh, good heavens, I'm not ashamed of it. I do a turn in music hall. My stage name is Madeleine Leclerc. Which reminds me, I shall have to be getting along to theatre now. In spite of this tragic affair. The show must go on, you know.

[Michael Kells]

I'll tag along if you don't mind, Auntie. I'd like to see your act.

[Janine Carew]

Oh, but this terrible thing here. Won't the police have to be called, Auntie?

[Michael Kells]

I'm no more anxious to answer questions for the police than you are. Sammy's dead. It can't be helped. So on with the show. One thing she told me wasn't a lie. She was really a performer in a music hall. I dropped her at the stage entrance and dismissed the cab. One of the posters on the front of the theater had a portrait of auntie on it. Surrounded by pigeons. Madame de Klerk and her educated dove. She shared top billing with the great Ravalo, the man with a hundred voices. The matinee was sold out completely. An escape for a war wearied London. I started walking up the street street toward the corner, taking my time. Then I saw something that made me walk faster. It was the sign that hung over the entrance to the Corner pub. The name was the heap of feathers. When Sammy arranged that heap of feathers in the bowl before he died, he must have meant to steer me to this place. I walked into the saloon bar after a heap of feathers and looked around.

[Janine Carew]

Omelet B Whiskey and bitters.

[Michael Kells]

Whiskey, if you please.

[Janine Carew]

Yes, sir. Nature.

[Michael Kells]

Thank you. Tell me, have you seen a chap in here lately? Sammy Carew?

[Janine Carew]

Hello. I've seen him today, sir.

[Michael Kells]

Well, thank you anyway. Excuse me. I might be able to help you, sir. I am the Great Ravello. Oh yes, I know. I recognized you from the poster in front of the theater. You know Sammy? Only casually. He's the nephew of the woman who does the turn just after mine. Did you talk to her this afternoon? No, I did an impersonation of her dubs, and she didn't like. No. You do bird calls as well as ventriloquism? Not ventriloquism, my dear fellow. Impersonations. There isn't a man who figures in the news today whom I cannot imitate in voice. Well, that's very interesting. But look here. You said you might be able to help me about Sammy Carew? Oh, yes. He was in here last evening. He left with Janine. Janine? Who's Janine?

[Janine Carew]

Who's your name?

[Michael Kells]

It's plain to see you don't know this neighborhood very well. Do you know where she lives?

[Vincent Price]

Verity street, number 16.

[Michael Kells]

Yes, Miss Janine.

[Janine Carew]

I'm Janine.

[Michael Kells]

I'm a friend of Sammy Karu's.

[Janine Carew]

Oh, you better come in. What about Sammy?

[Michael Kells]

He's been murdered.

[Janine Carew]

You. You must be joking.

[Michael Kells]

No, I'm not joking.

[Janine Carew]

Oh. Oh, no.

[Michael Kells]

There, there. You must have liked him a lot.

[Janine Carew]

I loved him. When? When did it happen?

[Michael Kells]

You and he left a pub called the Heap of Feathers arm in arm last night. A short time later, someone stabbed him in the back. It might have been you, Janine.

[Janine Carew]

Are you from the policeman?

[Michael Kells]

Do I look like a policeman?

[Janine Carew]

No. No, you don't. See here, Mr. Kells.

[Michael Kells]

Michael Kells.

[Janine Carew]

I shouldn't be risking this, Mr. Kells, but I have a feeling you're all right. You see, Sammy Carew is my husband.

[Michael Kells]

Oh, poor Sammy. First he gets an aunt that trains birds, and now a wife that hangs out in corner pubs.

[Janine Carew]

We were married in Santa. He was working with the Marquis. That's how I happened to come here to England. He was doing some kind of secret work for the government. I never knew much about it. After we arrived here, it was necessary for us to live in separate apartments so as to keep his identity a secret. And last night he told me he was worried. He told me about the job he'd been on. He'd stolen something from some enemy agents, and he was afraid they'd kill him before he could deliver it to the people he was working for.

[Michael Kells]

Did he have it with him?

[Janine Carew]

I don't know. I don't know. Oh, I wish I knew what to do, Mr. Kelsey. If Sammy had only told me more about himself. A man came here this morning. He demanded an envelope he thought Sammy had left with me. He said that unless I give it to him the next time he Comes here, he'd kill me.

[Michael Kells]

Have you any idea who this fellow was?

[Janine Carew]

I'd seen Sammy talking to him once or twice in the heap of Fetters place. A big, dark man wearing a sophomore first cap. Ernie, I think his name was. I was on my way out to tell Sammy when you came in. Why so frightened, Mr. Kells? I don't know where to turn.

[Michael Kells]

If it's on the level about your being Sammy's widow, I'll look out for you.

[Janine Carew]

Well, I. I have everything here. All the papers. Look. Look at the. Mr. Kells. Does that convince you?

[Michael Kells]

Okay. What's this? Diplomatic visa. How did you rate this?

[Janine Carew]

I can't answer that question.

[Michael Kells]

You must have been hard nabbing with the prime minister.

[Janine Carew]

Please don't ask me any questions about the visa. It has nothing to do with this other business, I assure you.

[Michael Kells]

Well, you're Mrs. Sammy Carew, all right.

[Janine Carew]

That's what I wanted you to be sure of. Oh, you will help me, won't you, Mr. Kells?

[Michael Kells]

What do you want me to do?

[Janine Carew]

I want you to find that envelope.

[Michael Kells]

So you can give it to the.

[Janine Carew]

Himler boys so it can be delivered to the people Sanny was working for. It's the only way both parties will be convinced that I haven't got it.

[Michael Kells]

I don't think you need to worry, Janine. You've certainly convinced me you haven't got it.

[Janine Carew]

And you'll help me?

[Michael Kells]

Yes. And the man who threatened you, the man named Ernie. You needn't worry about him anymore. I'll look after him personally.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Cap.

[Michael Kells]

Sir. Oh, it's you again. Who hired you to shadow me anyway?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Enni Velbada is his own boss. Get in, my friend. I'll drive you home. She is attractive. The shining girl, huh?

[Michael Kells]

Very.

[Ernie Guelvada]

I would like to point out, my friend, that espionage business is nothing but misunderstandings in love affairs.

[Michael Kells]

Look here, if you think I've fallen.

[Ernie Guelvada]

For Janine, your pet could blame you.

[Michael Kells]

Wasn't that rather crude of you to go around and threaten her?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Maybe it was not crude of her to go around to Sammy's place after he was killed and ripped the place to pieces looking for the envelope. She did that?

[Michael Kells]

She did.

[Ernie Guelvada]

With her husband lying dead on the floor with a knife in his back. She goes calmly to work. Then upstairs she goes to Auntie's room, not even stopping for last looks at our poor dead Sammy.

[Michael Kells]

You saw that?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Certainly. She is in such a hurry, she does not even stop to throw her dead blinds.

[Michael Kells]

I did not know at the time.

[Ernie Guelvada]

What had happened to Sammy. I could not see the floor from where I was standing.

[Michael Kells]

What happened after she went upstairs to Auntie's apartment?

[Ernie Guelvada]

I could not see in those windows at all. Then you came in. And after that, Auntie. Pretty soon you and Auntie leave and I trail you to the music halls.

[Michael Kells]

You've had a busy day, haven't you, Auntie?

[Ernie Guelvada]

I do not like this kind of assignment. Too much of a tip. There's only one way to make a German talk. The same methods they use. Blow torches, rubber homes, huts, spikes under the fingernail.

[Michael Kells]

Say, you're a bloodthirsty chap, aren't you?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Personally, I have never stood for any nonsense from accursed Germans.

[Michael Kells]

Eh, so I've heard.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Give me one hour with that Janine in a sample room and she will tell the whole plan. Names, everything you need.

[Michael Kells]

There's no proof of anything against her.

[Ernie Guelvada]

There is only one way to get it.

[Michael Kells]

That's not our way. In England, you are the boss. Besides, how do I know you're the person you pretend to be?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Do me a favor, Michael. Take this Jeannine to dinner tomorrow night. Choose a place. Later on, I will drop around to your table. Watch her face when you tell her my name is Guelvada. They all turn green at the mention of my name. That swine. If she does not turn at Le Charatrus, then my name is Heinrich Himmler.

[Michael Kells]

To Sammy.

[Janine Carew]

To Sammy. Rest his brave soul.

[Michael Kells]

By the way, Janine, you got that chap with the chauffeur's cap all wrong. He's one of our men.

[Janine Carew]

But how could he be? I told you, he threatened me.

[Michael Kells]

He realizes his mistake now and wants to apologize. I. I asked him to join us here later on.

[Janine Carew]

Are you sure we're talking about the same person?

[Michael Kells]

Of course. Ernie Quelvada.

[Janine Carew]

Oh, dear. Now look what I've done. I spilled that drink all over my skirt. I have to go and filled it.

[Michael Kells]

The glass was empty. There's no damage at all. What's the matter, Janine? You're trembling.

[Janine Carew]

Well, I just happen to remember a telephone call I must have.

[Michael Kells]

I'll have the waiter bring a phone over to our table. Waiter.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, sir?

[Michael Kells]

Bring a telephone. Mademoiselle wants to make a call.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, sir.

[Michael Kells]

Right away, sir.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Ah, Michael. Little friend. I trust I am not late.

[Michael Kells]

Just on time. You two have met, haven't you? Miss Janine. Ernie Guelvada.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Miss Janine. I must apologize for my behavior the other morning. Had I known that you were the widow of Kaou.

[Janine Carew]

Michael, the smoke in here is Giving me such a headache. Please take me home.

[Ernie Guelvada]

By the way, Michael, you remember this story I was telling you about that beautiful spy in a certain city?

[Michael Kells]

What spy? What city?

[Ernie Guelvada]

You know, in Lisbon. Marindaz Mar. You knew her, Mademoiselle. A wonderful woman. A Nazi, but beautiful. It pained me to have to torture her. But she was reluctant to give me the information I needed. And I did not have time to make love to her.

[Janine Carew]

Michael, will you please take me home? I'm sure Mr. Gad will excuse me.

[Ernie Guelvada]

I will take you in my cab. It is just outside.

[Janine Carew]

Don't touch me.

[Ernie Guelvada]

I was only trying to assist you into your coat, Mademoiselle.

[Michael Kells]

You're behaving very strangely, Janine.

[Janine Carew]

I'm sorry. It's this headache. Please take me out of here.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Dear me, Miss Janine. You look like nervous condition. I'm positive.

[Janine Carew]

Michael, send him away. I refuse to go in his cab.

[Michael Kells]

You're being hysterical, Janine. Now stop it.

[Janine Carew]

I know what you're up to, both of you. You're going to take me away and torture me.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Why should I torture you, Ms. Janine? I have definitely decided that you do not have the envelope. And so has Michael.

[Michael Kells]

Come along, Janine. Get into the cab and stop this now.

[Janine Carew]

No, I won't. I won't help.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Please. What the.

[Vincent Price]

What's the problem, miss?

[Janine Carew]

These two men are molesting me. They tried to force me into that cab.

[Ernie Guelvada]

She is intoxicated. She does not know what she is doing.

[Vincent Price]

Well, it doesn't look intoxicated to me. Now run along, you two and leave the lady be.

[Janine Carew]

Thank you, officer. You saved my life.

[Michael Kells]

Yes?

[Vincent Price]

Michael, this is Collison.

[Michael Kells]

Jack, thank heaven you called at last. Just about everything has gone wrong this past 24 hours.

[Vincent Price]

I know. You got me in the deal of trouble, too.

[Michael Kells]

How's that?

[Vincent Price]

One moment, please. Is Downing street still on the wire?

[Janine Carew]

Yes, Major Collison.

[Vincent Price]

Put it on to this outside connection. Michael, are you still there?

[Michael Kells]

Yes, Jack.

[Vincent Price]

I'm going to let you talk to him directly, Michael.

[Michael Kells]

Talk to whom directly?

[Vincent Price]

You'll recognize his voice. Go ahead, sir.

[Michael Kells]

Are you there, Mr. Kells? Yes. Oh, yes, sir.

[Vincent Price]

Well, sir, you know I don't at all like to meddle in matters written under my affair, but a young friend of mine, a refugee in whom my wife has taken an interest, seems to think you've gotten the wrong idea about art. She's quite hysterical, of course. Lots of talk about torture and all such nonsense could never happen in England. Well, to be brief, Mr. Kells, I personally will vouch for this girl, I'm positive that you must be quite mistaken in your ideas about her.

[Michael Kells]

Yes, sir, I. Perhaps I was a bit hasty.

[American Giant]

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[Janine Carew]

Back against this tide.

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[Janine Carew]

More right here in the USA.

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[Vincent Price]

Be vigilant. Be vigilant, lad.

[Michael Kells]

Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.

[Vincent Price]

Was that connection all right, Michael?

[Michael Kells]

Yes, indeed, Jack. What a connection. The next morning, while I was having coffee, Annie Gralvada brought up a letter from Collison. It was a detailed breakdown of my assignment. I was to find the envelope Sammy Carew had been killed for. It contained microfilm reductions of the Himmler unit on the buzz bombs which would enable the enemy to perfect the aim of the new weapon. My sole job was to find out where Sammy Carew had hidden it.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Examine the facts, Michael. Once Sammy got the envelope, what is the first thing he would have done? Drop it in the mail, naturally. And mail it to headquarters. But he did not.

[Michael Kells]

Why? Well, he must have wanted to check on the contents.

[Ernie Guelvada]

So he takes it up to his apartment. But he never leaves there alive. The killers did not find it on him. So what has happened?

[Michael Kells]

It must be somewhere in that house.

[Ernie Guelvada]

If I was semi in that spot, do you know where I would hide it now?

[Michael Kells]

Where?

[Ernie Guelvada]

In Auntie's apartment.

[Michael Kells]

You're crazy.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Where is the last place you would think of looking for something you knew had been stolen from you?

[Michael Kells]

Well, it's the possibility. Anyway, worth a try.

[Ernie Guelvada]

And don't look for secret panels, my friend. Look the most obvious place.

[Michael Kells]

After Auntie had left for the theater that afternoon, I let myself into the Canoe street house and went straight up to her apartment. The first thing that hit my eye was a framed photograph of Auntie herself in a silver frame on the mantelpiece. The face in the picture was grinning at me with that try and catch me expression of hers. I picked it up to turn it to the wall. The hasp on the back of it fell out and the glass and backing of the frame dropped on the floor. I bent to pick up the pieces and then I saw was the envelope Sammy was killed for. Thank you for finding that, Mr. Kells. Now will you please hand it over? No, I won't, Ravala. I don't like killing an agent, even a British agent. But if you force me. You thought you were very clever following me here, didn't you, Ravala? I think I've been rather clever all along the line, mister. When I telephoned you and impersonated your chief Collison and his chief Churchill, I.

[Vincent Price]

Kept you off one of my best.

[Michael Kells]

Agents for three valuable days. Dear Janine. The envelope, Mr. Kells. I'm getting impatient. This gun might go off in spite of myself. You're very amusing, Ravalo. Very amusing indeed. Well, I wanted you to follow me here. I left a trail deliberately. And Ernie Guelvada followed you every step of the way. Standing behind you now. And he's got a gun. My dear Kells, did you really think I would fall for that old trick?

[Ernie Guelvada]

I must be slipping. Everybody used to be frightened of me. Yes, it is I, Herbalo. I will take the gun. Now.

[Michael Kells]

Listen, I was only doing my job. I know nothing.

[Ernie Guelvada]

See, Michael, how green they turn at the sight of me.

[Michael Kells]

You wouldn't dare to torture me. They would never permit such methods here in England.

[Ernie Guelvada]

I just looked over this cellar under this theater. Very well constructed, absolutely soundproof.

[Michael Kells]

What? What do you want me to do?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Tell him what to do, Mike.

[Michael Kells]

Yes, tell me what to do. Pick up that telephone, ravallo.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Do what Mr. Kells tells you to do.

[Michael Kells]

Now then, Ravallo, here's your chance to give a real performance. You're so good at imitating voices. Let's hear you give an impersonation of your chief. You're going to phone every member of your special unit. And in his voice you're going to call them together for a special emergency. Emergency conference. Where? Where shall I tell him to Come here. At midnight the meeting will be held in that soundproof basement.

[Vincent Price]

Hello?

[Michael Kells]

Is that Mr. Hoffman?

[Ernie Guelvada]

Speaking.

[Vincent Price]

There was quite a large fire in.

[Michael Kells]

Your neighborhood last night.

[Vincent Price]

Three and seven. Operation Zero.

[Michael Kells]

It's safe to talk. Listen closely.

[Vincent Price]

There will be a meeting of the entire unit at midnight tonight. The 7 Arts. The in Rodney Place.

[Michael Kells]

You will come to the stage entrance.

[Vincent Price]

And proceed directly to the 7Art Theater in Rodney Place.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Midnight.

[Janine Carew]

I'll be there. Midnight. Rodney Place. I will inform my husband.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Rodney Place. Me. Ah, Midnight.

[Michael Kells]

A special directive from the fira.

[Vincent Price]

It was the chief's voice.

[Janine Carew]

Unmistakable.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Pardon me.

[Janine Carew]

Please stand it out.

[Michael Kells]

Theater.

[Vincent Price]

Midnight. A brilliant piece of work, Michael. Brilliant. Decoyed them all into the cellar and locked them up there.

[Michael Kells]

All except one, Jock.

[Vincent Price]

Which one is that?

[Michael Kells]

A girl named Janine. A special operative who entered England on a diplomatic visa issued by a neutral coward.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I shan't worry about one getting away. We got the documents and we've broken the unit. And now I'd best call Scotland Yard and have your prisoners brought in from Rodney Place.

[Michael Kells]

That can be done at your leisure. There's only one exit. An iron door, triple bolted on the outside. They couldn't even get out with a blowtorch.

[Vincent Price]

Good, good. We'll let them stew for a while. Ah, one o'clock. Time for tonight's buzz Bum.

[Michael Kells]

What's their target tonight?

[Vincent Price]

Your hotel in Mulberry Street. We'll see how close they come to it.

[Michael Kells]

There it is now.

[Vincent Price]

All right on time. Now we shall see whether we've done for them. Yes. What did it hit? Excellent, excellent. That will be all. Good night. Well, Michael, it's safe for you to go home now. It fell quite a way short of its target.

[Michael Kells]

Mind if I ask where it did hit?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, Rodney Place. Just an old theater called the Seven Arts.

[Michael Kells]

What you mean? I didn't expect to find you here.

[Janine Carew]

Don't be angry at me. I didn't dare come in the front way. That man was following me. He's absolutely mad. He's convinced that I'm one of that group of spies and nothing will dissuade him.

[Michael Kells]

How did you get into my room?

[Janine Carew]

I used Sammy. A bunch of keys. Oh, please don't be angry with me, Michael.

[Michael Kells]

I'm not angry with you, Janine. I'm just tired.

[Janine Carew]

Why don't you give up this life, Michael? We can go away together to Ireland somewhere, just you and I. I'd like that.

[Michael Kells]

Janine.

[Janine Carew]

I knew the moment you first came to see me at Verily street that you were the only one who could Ever take Sammy's place?

[Michael Kells]

Looking out for replacements? Rather soon, aren't you, darling?

[Janine Carew]

In wartime, everything gets over faster. Life, love, hatred, grief. Everything.

[Michael Kells]

What do you want, Janine? You like this, my darling?

[Janine Carew]

I had to come back to you. You knew I would, didn't you?

[Michael Kells]

I hoped you would.

[Janine Carew]

We'll be so happy together.

[Michael Kells]

There's only one thing standing in the way of it. Darling.

[Janine Carew]

What, Michael? What is it?

[Michael Kells]

I don't mind your being an enemy agent. You've taken the same chance and done the same work we all have to do.

[Janine Carew]

Then what do you mind, Michael?

[Michael Kells]

I mind the way you stabbed Sammy Carou in the back. That's what I mind. He loved you and trusted you, and you stabbed him in the back.

[Janine Carew]

He refused to understand anything. It angered him that I had powerful protection in this country. He kept on trying to interfere.

[Michael Kells]

Yes, that famous voice on the telephone must have served you well. Till Sammy found his way to that music hall and heard the great Ravalo imitating the same voice on the stage. I should have known my trick wouldn't work on you, Jennifer. Having used Senor Ravalo's talents yourself, you weren't taken in by his impersonation of your chief, were you?

[Janine Carew]

Ravalo and I used the voice trick on many a job. Do you blame me for not falling into your trap?

[Michael Kells]

I told you, I only blame you for one thing.

[Janine Carew]

You'll forget that in time you'll come to understand why it had to be.

[Michael Kells]

Yes, you're right. I'll forget it in time.

[Janine Carew]

Jenny, let's bring to it. Michael, let's drink to us.

[Michael Kells]

All right, darling, the bottle's over there. I have to make a call. Get me to.

[Janine Carew]

Who are you calling?

[Michael Kells]

Jock, it's Michael Kells. I've got the missing member of the unit. She's here in my room now. Better send someone over. No, Jock. Just tired. Good night.

[Janine Carew]

Well, I did my best. I didn't think I'd be able to talk you out of it.

[Michael Kells]

We'll have that drink now, Janine. We'll drink too. Tammy.

[Vincent Price]

With Vincent Price's stars. CBS has brought you sinister errand, third in a new series, Intrigue. Now here is Mr. Price.

[Michael Kells]

Thank you. I've enjoyed being with you this evening on Intrigue. Our producer, Charles Vander, tells me that there won't be any show next week because of the VJ Day anniversary. But I shall certainly be listening two weeks from tonight when Joseph Shilkraut returns to bring you that most famous of all stories of Intrigue, the great impersonation the masterpiece of that undisputed master of the sinister E. Phillips Oppenheim. Good night.

[Vincent Price]

Vincent Price appeared on Intrigue Tonight by.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Permission of 20th Century Fox producers of Anna and the King of Siam.

[Vincent Price]

Robert Tallman adopted of the story. Music was composed by Gail Kubik and.

[Ernie Guelvada]

Lucian Marovak and conducted by Lud Gluskin.

[Vincent Price]

James Matthews speaking this is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Ernie Guelvada]

With the American Express Gold Card, I.

[Janine Carew]

Can earn four times membership rewards points at US Supermarkets.

[Ernie Guelvada]

So I'll grab some chili oil points.

[Janine Carew]

And fish packed with points. Bucatini. That's a lot of points. Heirloom tomatoes, perfectly ripe and packed with points. Get more than just your groceries with the American Express Gold Card. Learn [e-mail] US Explore Gold Terms and points cap apply.

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