Isn't It A Crime 1945-12-14 Speaking Of Murder

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Isn't It A Crime 1945-12-14 Speaking Of Murder"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Isn't It A Crime 1945-12-14 Speaking Of Murder
• Release Date: February 14, 2025
• Description: Presenting radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio, featuring classic performances from beloved shows like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and more.

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1. Introduction to the Mystery

Timestamp: [00:30] – [00:55]

The episode opens with the host, Jerry Marshall, setting the stage for the eighteenth installment in the "Isn't It A Crime?" series. He teases the audience with the intriguing premise of a dead man reappearing at the crime scene, fueling the mysterious atmosphere of the story titled "Speaking Of Murder."

Notable Quote:

Jerry Marshall [00:30]: "If a dead man reappears on the scene. Just to get into the spirit of things, isn't it a crime?"

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2. Introduction of Characters and Setting

Timestamp: [01:05] – [04:13]

The narrative unfolds in the penthouse apartment of Glenn Winthrop, a writer of mystery stories. Glenn is portrayed as a somewhat cantankerous character who despises his valet, Archibald Smithers, particularly his alarm clock—an embodiment of his irritation and desire for uninterrupted sleep.

Key Interactions:

• Glenn's frustration with Archibald over trivial matters like shaving and the alarm clock sets a comedic yet tense tone.
• Introduction of Frances Southworth, Glenn's fiancée, who has returned unexpectedly from Florida under mysterious circumstances.

Notable Quote:

Glenn Winthrop [03:27]: "What's my fiancée got to do with it? She's in Florida."

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3. Arrival at the Gloomy Old House

Timestamp: [05:24] – [08:43]

Frances urges Glenn to accompany her to her uncle's old, secluded house in the suburbs, citing a cryptic message from Robert Southworth, the uncle's secretary. The house is described as eerie, with Hamlet, a Great Dane, lingering ominously—a foreshadowing of impending doom.

Key Elements:

• Atmosphere: The setting is meticulously crafted to evoke suspense, with descriptions of darkness, shadows, and unsettling noises.
• Character Dynamics: Tension builds between Glenn and Frances as they navigate their uneasy journey to the house, highlighting their differing personalities and fears.

Notable Quotes:

Irma Southworth [08:37]: "Now, wait a minute. I'm gonna see what it is."

Glenn Winthrop [08:47]: "Is that you, Mr. Winthrop?"

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4. Unveiling the Mystery

Timestamp: [09:00] – [17:40]

Upon arrival, the group confronts a series of eerie occurrences:

• Strange Phone Incident: Glenn discovers a hidden phone ringing with no dial tone, raising suspicions.
• Robert Southworth's Arrival: Robert, along with Frances and Dr. Dick Blade, introduces complexities surrounding the uncle's death.

Key Developments:

• Discussion of the Will: Robert reads the uncle's will, revealing that Frances and Irma must meet certain conditions to inherit the estate.
• Supernatural Undertones: References to spiritualism and the uncle's interest in communicating from beyond the grave add layers of intrigue.

Notable Quotes:

Robert Southworth [19:35]: "In the event that at exactly one month from the hour of my death, my two nieces, Frances and Irma, are living and unmarried..."

Glenn Winthrop [16:05]: "The lion's dead."

---

5. The 60-Second Detective Challenge

Timestamp: [24:22] – [25:44]

Midway through the drama, Jerry Marshall reappears to engage listeners directly, challenging them to solve the murder mystery before the story reaches its conclusion.

Interactive Segment:

• Identifying Clues: Listeners are prompted to consider statements from characters like Robert Southworth, Dr. Dick Blade, Frances, and Irma to deduce the murderer.
• Engagement: This pause not only heightens anticipation but also immerses the audience in the role of amateur detectives.

Notable Quotes:

Jerry Marshall [24:07]: "Ladies and gentlemen, this is Jerry Marshall speaking. We take time out now... to solve the mystery of tonight's story."

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6. The Climactic Revelation

Timestamp: [25:44] – [28:50]

As the story resumes, the supposed supernatural elements culminate in the ghostly apparition of Frances Southworth, who accuses the murderer among the present characters. Tension escalates until the truth is unveiled:

Resolution:

• False Apparition: Frances is revealed to have been murdered by Dr. Dick Blade using slow poison.
• The Setup: Robert Southworth and Dr. Blade orchestrate the haunting to coerce a confession.
• Hamlet the Dog: The death of Hamlet is also staged to add credibility to the haunting.
• Legal Aftermath: The police are convinced of the natural causes of death, absolving the culprits.

Notable Quotes:

Frances Southworth [23:31]: "Only one here need fear me. The one who murdered me."

Robert Southworth [27:03]: "We set the stage for our ghost. The banging shutter, the candlelight, the seance. It was all staged."

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7. Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Timestamp: [28:50] – End

The episode concludes with reflections on the events, highlighting the deceptive tactics used by Robert and Dr. Blade to secure their inheritance. Glenn Winthrop and Irma Southworth reconcile, and the comedic tension between Glenn and Archibald Smithers resurfaces, providing a light-hearted end to the intense mystery.

Final Thoughts:

• Themes: Greed, deception, and the lengths individuals will go to secure wealth.
• Character Arcs: Glenn evolves from a frustrated writer to an unwitting participant in uncovering the truth, while Robert and Dr. Blade are exposed as manipulative antagonists.

Notable Quote:

Glenn Winthrop [28:43]: "Speaking of murder, have you considered what a swell corpse you'd make, Archibald?"

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8. Behind the Scenes

Timestamp: [28:50] – [End]

Jerry Marshall wraps up the episode, acknowledging the creative talents behind the story:

• Writer: Don Thompson
• Director: Milton Bernard K.
• Cast: Casey Allen, Eleanora Reed, Leonard Shearer, Jason Johnson, Eileen Court, and Meryl E.
• Music: Joel's musical settings by K. Reed.

He signs off, maintaining the nostalgic charm of the Golden Age of Radio.

Notable Quote:

Jerry Marshall [28:50]: "This is Jerry Marshall speaking and saying good night for isn't it a crime? This is W New York."

---

Conclusion

"Speaking Of Murder" masterfully blends suspense, character dynamics, and interactive elements to engage listeners in a classic whodunit narrative. Through its rich dialogue and atmospheric setting, the episode captures the essence of old-time radio mysteries, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the intrigue and ultimate revelation of the true murderer.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Golden Age radio dramas or new to the genre, this episode offers a captivating experience that combines timeless storytelling with interactive detective work. Tune in to "Harold's Old Time Radio" to enjoy more enthralling tales from the golden era of radio entertainment.

Transcript

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[Jerry Marshall]

If a dead man reappears on the scene. Just to get into the spirit of things, isn't it a crime? Wnew presents the 13th in a series of famous mystery stories relating to the gentle art of mayhem and the less gentle art of murder.

[Robert Southworth]

Isn't it a crime?

[Jerry Marshall]

This is Jerry Marshall speaking. Now, not only will you hear the exciting story of speaking of murder, but you will be invited to join our radio detective force and be given a chance to solve the crime before the answer is revealed. Just as if you might have been there on the scene. When all the clues are in, we'll return to the scene of the crime for the solution of tonight's mystery. Speaking of murder. It's nearly noon. Sunlight pokes inquisitive fingers under the window blinds of the penthouse apartment of Glenn Winthrop, writer of mystery stories. But Glenn isn't having any. His face is buried in the pillow, and he sleeps with sound effects. The door opens, framing a lean, melancholy face. The owner of the face peers the figure on the bed, then approaches, holding at arm's length an infernal machine. Destroyer of sleep, shatterer of nerves.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Answer the doorsmith is.

[Archibald Smithers]

It's not the door, Mr. Wincrop.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Then answer the phone. I want to sleep.

[Archibald Smithers]

It's not the phone, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Whatever it is, answer it.

[Archibald Smithers]

It's an alarm clock, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Oh, no. No alarm clocks. The curfew shall not ring tonight.

[Archibald Smithers]

But it isn't night, sir. It's merely noon.

[Glenn Winthrop]

It's really a figure of speed, Smithers. I don't care if it's night, morning or mid winter. Go away. And take that instrument of sun Satan with you. For heaven's sake, Smithers, turn that confounded thing off.

[Archibald Smithers]

Yes, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Now go away.

[Archibald Smithers]

But, Mr. Winthrop, sir, I must shave you. You just sit over there.

[Frances Southworth]

I'll grow a beard.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I'm not gonna shave for a month.

[Archibald Smithers]

But you must, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Archibald, what's got into you?

[Archibald Smithers]

I do wish, sir, that you wouldn't call me Archibald. As I told you, sir, when I entered your service, I detect My name.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Is Archie, and I wish, Archibald, that you'd go away and let me sleep. I detest alarm clocks, and I'm beginning to detest you.

[Archibald Smithers]

Surely, sir, you don't want to entertain a lady with that ghastly stubble on your chin. Especially your fiance.

[Frances Southworth]

What?

[Glenn Winthrop]

What's my fiance got to do with it? She's in Florida.

[Archibald Smithers]

Oh, no, sir. Ms. Southwood phoned a few minutes ago.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Frances phoned? Well, why didn't you say so?

[Archibald Smithers]

I hadn't as yet had the opportunity to do so, sir. She said she'd be here in 30 minutes.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Here in 30 minutes?

[Archibald Smithers]

Yes, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Just my luck. And I was all set to go on a hunting trip tomorrow.

[Archibald Smithers]

I didn't realize that you didn't wish to see her, sir. Shall I refuse her entrance, sir?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Shall you what?

[Archibald Smithers]

Shall I turn her away, sir?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Of course not, your dope. Where's my robe?

[Archibald Smithers]

Here, sir. If you just sit over here, I'll shave you in no time. I have everything ready.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Archie, I apologize. I'll never call you Archibald again. You're a lifesaver.

[Archibald Smithers]

Thank you, sir. Now just sit here, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I wonder what brought Frances back.

[Archibald Smithers]

She didn't say, sir. Now, if you'll just turn your head. So I'll lather your face in the.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Middle of the season, too, I think. Doggone it, Archie, you put the shaving soap in my mouth.

[Archibald Smithers]

I'm sorry, sir. You keep your mouth closed. It won't happen again.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, Glenn. Darling, I'm so glad to see you. Kiss me again. What is it, Archibald?

[Archibald Smithers]

Shall I bring some coffee, Mr. Winthrop?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Darling, I'm afraid Archie doesn't approve of romance before breakfast.

[Irma Southworth]

Well, he'll just have to approve after we're married. I'm sure I shall insist upon being kissed before breakfast.

[Archibald Smithers]

Shall I bring the coffee, sir?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Oh, yes, by all means, Archibald, bring the coffee.

[Archibald Smithers]

Thank you, sir.

[Irma Southworth]

Your valet is sort of. Sort of weird, darling.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Oh, he's all right. He's fussy about his name, that's all. I don't think he liked it when you called him Archibald.

[Irma Southworth]

But you just called him that yourself.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I always do when I'm annoyed with him.

[Irma Southworth]

And you were annoyed with him just now.

[Glenn Winthrop]

When anyone interrupts, the most beautiful woman in the land and the best actress just when she's about to kiss me. Why shouldn't I be annoyed?

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, you're crazy. But I love it.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Tell me, darling, what brings you back to the city so soon? When your show closed last week, you told me you were going away for a month.

[Irma Southworth]

I got a Wire from Robert that I must be at my uncle's house tonight.

[Glenn Winthrop]

In that gloomy old ruin out in the suburbs. But why? I thought that house was closed after your uncle died.

[Irma Southworth]

It was, but Robert stayed on there.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Who's Robert?

[Irma Southworth]

He was Uncle Ned's confidential secretary. He had charge of all my uncle's affairs. He and my cousin Irma nursed Uncle during his last illness. Robert wired that it was urgent that I come to the house tonight. Erm, has to be there too, be.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Taken care of by mail.

[Irma Southworth]

I don't know what it is, but Robert's wire states that if I hoped to participate in Uncle's estate, I had to be there tonight. Anyway, there's something funny about the way uncle died. I almost think sometimes that. That it was murder.

[Glenn Winthrop]

That sounds like the beginning of one of my mystery stories.

[Irma Southworth]

I know. I dread going out there. The place has always made me so uneasy. That's why I want you to come with me.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Ah, I see. I just spent three months writing a book about a spooky old house. Now I have to visit one and me on my vacation.

[Robert Southworth]

Is this the place, mister?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Yeah, this is it.

[Robert Southworth]

Oh, thanks, mister.

[Frances Southworth]

Yeah.

[Robert Southworth]

Gosh, what a spooky dive. You wouldn't catch me going into a place like that.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Are you hinting for an invitation?

[Robert Southworth]

Oh, no, not me, buddy.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Well, taste different, differ. He's seeing you, cabbie.

[Robert Southworth]

I hope so, but I ain't holding my breath.

[Irma Southworth]

Cab driver gives me the creeps. The way he said he hoped so when you told him you'd be seeing him.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Oh, he was just kidding. This is a spooky looking place. Why'd your uncle with all his dough want to live in a house way back from the street like that?

[Irma Southworth]

He built the wall all around the ground so he'd have privacy.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Well, he might as well have lost himself in the jungle. Here's the gate. Oh, watch out you don't stumble, Fran. Gee, it's sure dark around this place.

[Irma Southworth]

What was that?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Oh, it's just a hoot all, darling. We're really in the jungle. But don't let it get on your nerves.

[Irma Southworth]

But it is scary. After that gate shuts us off from the street, we might as well be in another world.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Say, by the way, is there a dog here?

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, yes, yes. Uncle's dog, Hamlet. Robert kept him after uncle died. He's a Great Dane. Hamlet? Hamlet. I mean, not Robert.

[Glenn Winthrop]

That's not so good.

[Irma Southworth]

Well, why don't you like Great Danes?

[Glenn Winthrop]

I don't mind him in the daylight, but I certainly don't fancy young elephant jumping on me in the dark.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, Hamlet won't hurt us. He knows me.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Yeah, but he doesn't know me.

[Irma Southworth]

I can't understand, though, why he hasn't barked. He usually raises the roof when anyone comes into the grounds at night. Look. Look, Glenn. There by the tree in the porch. There's a. There's a huge dark shadow and something white. Oh, Glenn, let's get out of here.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Now, wait a minute. I'm gonna see what it is.

[Irma Southworth]

No, no, darling, don't come out of.

[Glenn Winthrop]

There, whoever you are.

[Archibald Smithers]

Is that you, Mr. Winthrop?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Archie?

[Archibald Smithers]

Yes. When Ms. Southwood screamed, it nearly scared the wits out of Mr. Well, Archie.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I can't say that your sudden appearance was a sedative to our nerves.

[Archibald Smithers]

That outlandish creature. It seems to be a bird, sir. It's been roosting over my head ever since I got here.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Incidentally, Archie, what are you doing here anyway?

[Archibald Smithers]

Oh, I beg your pardon, sir. It quite slipped my mind in my discomposure. You see, sir, after you and Ms. Southwood left for dinner, I discovered an appalling thing. A terrible oversight.

[Glenn Winthrop]

What is it?

[Archibald Smithers]

I hope you'll forgive me, sir, but when you were dressing, I was guilty of a terrible bit of negligence.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Well, well, Archie, what is it?

[Archibald Smithers]

It was an oversight, sir, and I'm terribly sorry. I didn't know where you were dining, so I came out here to meet you.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Here? Archie, what are you talking about?

[Archibald Smithers]

Oh, it's horrible, sir. I let you come out in public without a handkerchief in your breast pocket and here it is.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Well, I'll forgive you this time, Archie, just so you don't let me go out in public someday without my pants.

[Archibald Smithers]

Oh, no, sir.

[Irma Southworth]

Come on, Glenn, let's go inside. This dark yard frightens me.

[Glenn Winthrop]

That house looks just as dark. Are you sure Robert said he'd meet you here?

[Irma Southworth]

Yes, I'm sure. Look. Look, there's a light. That window at the side that used to be Uncle's den.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I beg pardon? Robert said he'd meet you here.

[Irma Southworth]

Yes.

[Archibald Smithers]

I'm sure you'd mind walking to the gate with me. It seems that the nocturnal aspect of this place appalls me. I. I feel that my nervous system has been sadly derailed.

[Glenn Winthrop]

You may as well come in with us, Archie. We shan't be here long, I hope. Ms. Southworth is planning to fly back to Florida tomorrow. And I want to start on that hunting trip. God, I almost fell down. Confounded. Somebody left a rolled up rug or something on that porch. Why can't they have lights on when they're expecting company.

[Irma Southworth]

There never was any furniture on the porch when uncle was alive.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Where in blazes is that bell?

[Irma Southworth]

There isn't a bell, dear. Uncle could never stand bells ringing. He wouldn't even have a telephone for that reason. Here. The big door knocker.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Let's see how this contraption works. I've got it. Echoes through the house like the crack of doom. You suppose there's anybody there?

[Irma Southworth]

I'm sure I saw a light in the den. Knock again.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Okay.

[Archibald Smithers]

It's as silent as a mausoleum.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Sir Archibald, your choice of words is unfortunate under the circumstances, but you're right, Fran. I think someone's been playing a practical joke on you.

[Irma Southworth]

Bringing me out to this gloomy old house when there's nobody here isn't my idea of a joke that isn't funny.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Practical jokes rarely are.

[Archibald Smithers]

I beg pardon, sir, but there seems to be someone with the captain moving around inside.

[Robert Southworth]

Oh, good evening, Ms. Francis. You're a little early.

[Irma Southworth]

Good evening. Robert, this is my fiance, Mr. Winthrop.

[Jerry Marshall]

Good evening.

[Robert Southworth]

Good evening.

[Archibald Smithers]

Why.

[Irma Southworth]

Why the candle? What's happened to the electric lights?

[Robert Southworth]

A fuse blew out. Miss Francis and I had no spare. We'll have to make out with candles tonight. Who is this other gentleman?

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, I'm sorry. This is Smithers, Mr. Winthrop's man.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Great Scott. Archie, what's the matter with you? You're shaking like a leaf.

[Archibald Smithers]

Look, sir, there on the porch. That's what you stumbled over.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Hold the light higher, will you, Robert, please? Thanks. It's a dog.

[Irma Southworth]

It's Hamlet. No wonder he didn't bark at us. He's. He's dead.

[Glenn Winthrop]

There's not a mark on him. Wonder what happened to him.

[Robert Southworth]

The dog grieved for his master. Probably died of grief. He was very old.

[Irma Southworth]

No, no. Glenn. Glenn, I'm frightened. There's. There's menace in the air here tonight. I can feel it. Something terrible will happen here tonight. Midnight. I wonder where Irma is.

[Robert Southworth]

She's probably coming with Dr. Blade. Perhaps he's been detained on a call.

[Irma Southworth]

Dr. Blade? You. You mean young Dick Blade? Uncle's doctor? Why is he coming?

[Robert Southworth]

Irma's been working in his office since your uncle died. He promised to bring her.

[Irma Southworth]

I never liked Dick Blade.

[Robert Southworth]

He's been very kind to Irma.

[Irma Southworth]

Yes, probably feathering his nest. Probably wants to marry her for her share of uncle's fortune.

[Robert Southworth]

Perhaps if you had been your uncle's nurse instead of Irma, you might feel differently about Dr. Blade.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, I'm sorry, Robert. That was a terrible Thing to say. I'm not myself tonight. This place gives me the creeps. It almost seems that uncle is here tonight, reproaching me because I wasn't with him when he died.

[Robert Southworth]

I'm sure your uncle understood that. You would have been with him had it been possible. You were very thoughtful. You sent fruit and flowers nearly every day.

[Irma Southworth]

Fruit and flowers that meant nothing. Oh, I should have left the show and come here.

[Robert Southworth]

Your uncle wouldn't have wanted that. He was proud of your career.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, why doesn't Irma come?

[Robert Southworth]

It was just a month ago tonight that he died. At one o'clock. It's just an hour from the. Why, Miss Frances, you're shivering. Are you cold?

[Irma Southworth]

No, no, I was just listening to that wind. It has an eerie sound.

[Robert Southworth]

It's been a sultry day. Probably a storm brewing.

[Irma Southworth]

What was that?

[Robert Southworth]

I didn't hear anything. Oh, listen, you're upset, my dear. I heard nothing.

[Irma Southworth]

But I tell you, I heard something. It was the sound of something banging like. Like someone pounding on the wall. There it is again.

[Robert Southworth]

Ms. Francis, you're overwrought. You're imagining things. I must have Dr. Blade prescribe something.

[Irma Southworth]

No, no, no. I don't trust that man.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Hello, darling. Sorry I scared you.

[Irma Southworth]

Glenn, where have you been?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Archie and I were moving Hamlet's body so your cousin wouldn't get a scare when she arrived. Oh, by the way, Robert Smithers is out in the hall. If you'll be so kind as to show us where we can wash up.

[Irma Southworth]

No, no, don't leave me, Glenn.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Why, Frances, what's wrong?

[Irma Southworth]

I don't know. I just don't want to be left alone.

[Glenn Winthrop]

All right, I'll stay.

[Robert Southworth]

I'll show Smithers the way upstairs. Thanks.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, darling, I'm so glad you came back when you did that. That man gives me the creeps.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Oh, Robert. Yeah, he is sort of strange, I suppose. It's just his way. Gee, you're sort of nervous. I've never seen you like this before.

[Robert Southworth]

Oh, that wind.

[Irma Southworth]

That unearthly screeching wind. It's almost as though uncle were trying to speak to me from his grave.

[Frances Southworth]

I'll see.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Here, young lady, you've got to get a grip on yourself. You mustn't go to pieces this way.

[Irma Southworth]

Only Irma would come. Then we could get this. This business of Roberts over with and go home.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I thought you said that your uncle never had a phone. Give me a start too. I guess I'm developing your nerves. Oh, all right, all right, I'm coming. Well, where is the confounded thing. It's over in this corner somewhere, but I can't find it.

[Irma Southworth]

There it is, in the woodpeck.

[Glenn Winthrop]

It's a fine place to keep a phone. Hello?

[Irma Southworth]

Hello?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Hello? That's funny.

[Irma Southworth]

Did they hang up?

[Glenn Winthrop]

No, that's the funny part of it. There wasn't even a dial tone. The lion's dead.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, Glenn, darling, take me out of here. There's something horrible going on in this place.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I'm beginning to agree with you. There's something mighty funny about a phone hidden in a wastebasket ringing when the lion is dead.

[Irma Southworth]

And Hamlet, I'm sure somebody killed him.

[Glenn Winthrop]

There wasn't a mark on the dog's body.

[Irma Southworth]

It could have been poisoned.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Yes, that's true. Did Robert tell you why he sent for you to come here tonight?

[Irma Southworth]

He said we'd have to wait until Irma got here. She and I are Uncle's only surviving relatives. And it has something to do with the will. Robert drew it up, you know.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Yeah, but why should your uncle's secretary draw up his will? Why not a lawyer?

[Irma Southworth]

Robert was more than Uncle's secretary. He was an old friend. Gave up his law practice to handle Uncle's affairs.

[Glenn Winthrop]

You know, Francis, this is all very strange. I feel as though I'm living in the pages of one of my own crazy books. I've written this story a dozen times myself.

[Robert Southworth]

Your man will be down In a minute, Mr. Winthrop.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Thanks, Robert. Robert, when did you have a phone installed in this house?

[Robert Southworth]

Phone?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Yes. A little while ago, a phone rang. I had trouble locating it, but finally found it in the wastebasket. When I answered, the line was dead. It did seem rather strange.

[Robert Southworth]

I had the phone put in shortly after your uncle's death. Ms. Francis, I was working at the desk today and remember putting it in the basket to clear the desktop. As to the line being dead. Are you sure of that, Mr. Winthrop?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Quite sure. Try it yourself.

[Robert Southworth]

Oh, that's probably Irma. Excuse me. I let her in.

[Glenn Winthrop]

You know, Francis, I believe you're right. There is something fishy about that man. That strange gliding walk, that flat voice, that pale face.

[Irma Southworth]

Glenn. He looks like a dead man.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

So you're Glenn, dear. Francis has told me so much about you.

[Irma Southworth]

Never mind trying to make a play for him, dear Emma, he's mine.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Oh, you talk, Francis. Well, Robert, suppose we get down to business. Dick and I want to get back to town.

[Archibald Smithers]

Phew.

[Glenn Winthrop]

We had a wet trip out. It's pouring in town.

[Frances Southworth]

Bad storm.

[Glenn Winthrop]

I tried to call you but couldn't get. You saw the reason Later. There's a tree down right across. The telephone line. Must have fallen while you were calling. The phone rang, but when I answered, the line was dead.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Oh, don't talk about dead things. This house always gives me the willies.

[Irma Southworth]

I don't see, Robert, why we had.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

To come out here. Why couldn't we meet in town?

[Robert Southworth]

This really concerns only Ms. Irma and Ms. Francis, but the rest of you may as well hear it. You know, of course, that I drew up your uncle's will.

[Irma Southworth]

Yes, of course.

[Robert Southworth]

And you know too, that for some time before his death, your uncle was interested in. In spiritualism.

[Irma Southworth]

Yes. It always gave me the creeps to.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Hear him talk about it.

[Robert Southworth]

Well, your uncle's will contained a strange clause. I, as executor, was instructed to request his heirs to be present here tonight. Exactly one month after his death.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Cute little idea uncle had. Did he order a storm too?

[Robert Southworth]

Please, Ms. Irma, I was further instructed to inform you of the terms of his will. I'll read it.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Oh, skip all the legal stuff. Just tell us how it affects us.

[Robert Southworth]

Very well. Aside from some minor bequests, the bulk of the property is to be divided between you two girls.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

And you hauled us out here to hear that?

[Robert Southworth]

Wait, Miss Erma. Let me read the paragraph which refers to your inheritance. In the event that at exactly one month from the hour of my death, my two nieces, Frances and Irma, are living and unmarried. And in the event they have not been involved in any scandal that would besmirched the name of Southworth, the residue of my estate shall be divided equally between them. But should either of my nieces fail in these conditions, said niece shall forfeit her inheritance and the entire estate shall go to my niece who fulfills said conditions. Could both nieces fail.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

I don't need to read the rest of it. We're both alive, we've been in no scandals and I'm certainly not married. How about you, Francis?

[Irma Southworth]

Of course not.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Then that's that. Come on, Dick. Let's start back to town.

[Robert Southworth]

One moment. Your uncle specified that both Francis and Irma should be here in this house at exactly one month from the time of his death. He died at 1am one month ago. We've still half an hour to wait. The conditions of the will are not effective till 1am well, that's pretty silly.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Neither of the girls is going to die or get into a scandal in half an hour.

[Frances Southworth]

Well, as a doctor, I grant you that marriage or scandal are unlikely. But who can be sure about death?

[Robert Southworth]

10 minutes of one. Now we must fulfill the final conditions of the will.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

What do you mean final conditions?

[Robert Southworth]

Will explain your uncle's interest in spiritualism prompted one other request. We are all to sit around this table. Ms. Irma, sit here beside me. Dr. Blade on my other side.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Very well.

[Robert Southworth]

Thank you. Ms. Francis, next to Dr. Blade. Mr. Winthrop and Smithers at the foot of the table. Thank you. Good. Now, I am instructed to place this loaded revolver on the table in front of me.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

So what's this all about?

[Robert Southworth]

At exactly one o'clock the hour of his death, your uncle will endeavor to speak to us from the grave.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

This is so silly.

[Robert Southworth]

If you wish to forfeit your inheritance, you may withdraw.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Not on your life.

[Robert Southworth]

You will note that a fire is laid in the grate. If your uncle succeeds in returning to us, he will light that fire.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Must we go through with this ridiculous farce?

[Robert Southworth]

Robert, you have heard the terms of your uncle's will.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Oh, that's a lot of tommy rot.

[Robert Southworth]

Perhaps. But it was your uncle's wish. I intend to carry out his wishes.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Oh, all right. Get on with it then.

[Robert Southworth]

Now each one clasp his neighbor's hand. All right?

[Irma Southworth]

Yes.

[Robert Southworth]

Then our circle is complete. I will now blow out the candle.

[Irma Southworth]

That clock.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Monotonous clock. Tick, tick, tick. It's driving me crazy.

[Robert Southworth]

Your uncle was very fond of that clock.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Well, I don't like.

[Robert Southworth]

Must be nearly one. We must be quiet.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

I tell you. I can't stand this quiet place.

[Frances Southworth]

Robert. Robert.

[Robert Southworth]

Yes?

[Frances Southworth]

You have done well.

[Robert Southworth]

Is that you, Mr. Southworth?

[Frances Southworth]

On earth, that was my name. Now I have no name. I cannot free myself from earth until my work is done.

[Robert Southworth]

Your work? What is your work?

[Frances Southworth]

Vengeance. Only one here need fear me. The one who murdered me.

[Irma Southworth]

Murdered?

[Archibald Smithers]

Yes.

[Frances Southworth]

With a slow poison. One of you murdered me. Robert, you brought me whiskey. Was the poison in that? Or was it in the medicine Dr. Blade gave me? Francis, you sent me the fruit nearly every day. Was it the fruit of death? No, Emma. You cooked my food. One of you murdered me.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

It wasn't I. I tell you, I didn't do it.

[Jerry Marshall]

Ladies and gentlemen, this is Jerry Marshall speaking. We take time out now, in fact, 60 seconds. Time to allow you amateur detectives to solve the mystery of tonight's story. To help you along with the solution, here are a few leading or misleading clues. First, is there anything that Robert said that might shed light on his innocence or guilt?

[Robert Southworth]

The dog grieved for his master. Probably died of grief. He was very old.

[Jerry Marshall]

Now, how about Dr. Blaine? Do you recall him saying?

[Frances Southworth]

Well, as a doctor, I grant that marriage or scandal are unlikely. But who can be sure about death?

[Jerry Marshall]

Then there is Francis, A very definite heir to Uncle Shekels.

[Irma Southworth]

There's menace in the air here tonight.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

I can feel it.

[Irma Southworth]

Something terrible will happen here tonight.

[Jerry Marshall]

Or could it have been Irma who was heard to say, must we go.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Through with this ridiculous farce? Robbers.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, the 60 seconds are up. Do you think you have the answer? All right, hold on to it and we'll return to our play and see if you're right.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

It wasn't I. I tell you, I didn't do it.

[Frances Southworth]

Ned.

[Robert Southworth]

Ned, don't you know who killed you?

[Frances Southworth]

I do not know, but I have ways of learning. At the stroke of one, I will light that fire in the fireplace and the finger of death will touch my murderer. The flame will sear into the treacherous brain that planned my death.

[Irma Southworth]

Robert.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

Robert, light that candle.

[Robert Southworth]

Quiet. Tell me, Ned, who killed you?

[Frances Southworth]

I can't tell you. But in a moment you will know. In a moment, the finger of death will touch the guilty one. There is a gun on the table. That is the only chance for the murderer. That is the only escape from eternal suffering. That is the only expiation.

[Irma Southworth]

No. No.

[Frances Southworth]

The finger of death is approaching. Confess your crime. Confess your crime. You murdered me. Confess. Confess before it's too late. The hour is at hand. Conf.

[Robert Southworth]

Look. The fire is lit.

[Frances Southworth]

The finger of death is upon you.

[Dr. Dick Blade]

I did it. I killed him. I hated him.

[Irma Southworth]

He made me a slave.

[Archibald Smithers]

Robert, quit the lights.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh.

[Robert Southworth]

She shot herself, Doctor.

[Archibald Smithers]

Is she.

[Robert Southworth]

Yes, she's dead. We felt for a long time that his death was not natural. And so Dick, Blade and I got an exhumation order. And Dick found signs of poison in the body. We suspected Both of you, Ms. Francis. It had to be either you or Ms. Irma. So we set the stage for our ghost. The banging shutter, the candlelight, the seance. It was all staged.

[Irma Southworth]

But Hamlet.

[Robert Southworth]

Well, the dog died this afternoon. I put the body on the porch.

[Irma Southworth]

The fire lighting itself.

[Robert Southworth]

Dick released my hand and I set off a charge of flashlight powder.

[Glenn Winthrop]

What about the ghost voice?

[Robert Southworth]

That was Dick. We planned to scare a confession from the guilty one. And it worked.

[Irma Southworth]

Poor Irma. It's horrible.

[Robert Southworth]

It's better the way it happened.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Won't there be legal complications and publicity about all this? After all, Irma committed a murder and then committed suicide.

[Frances Southworth]

No.

[Robert Southworth]

The police have informed me that no one need remain for questioning. No charges will be pressed. Will be no publicity. In fact, an inspector from the homicide squad was present in the west room. It was he who removed the body.

[Irma Southworth]

Oh, Glenn, I'll be so happy to get out of this awful house. Listen, darling, I'm not going to go back to Florida. Let's get married tomorrow.

[Glenn Winthrop]

Frances, your darling. Of course.

[Archibald Smithers]

I beg your pardon, sir.

[Glenn Winthrop]

What is it, Archie?

[Archibald Smithers]

Mr. Winthrop, sir, speaking of tomorrow, have you considered you were going on a hunting trip?

[Glenn Winthrop]

Speaking of murder, have you considered what a swell corpse you'd make, Archibald?

[Archibald Smithers]

Please don't call me Archibald, sir.

[Jerry Marshall]

We have brought you the 13th of a series of mystery stories. Tonight's drama, Speaking of Murder was written by Don Thompson and directed by Milton Bernard K. The cast featured Casey Allen, Eleanora Reed, Leonard Shearer, Jason Johnson, Eileen Court and Meryl E. Joel's musical settings were by K. Reed. This is Jerry Marshall speaking and saying good night for isn't it a crime? This is W New York.