Man Hunt xxxxxx 003 The Case of the Clue in the Column

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Man Hunt xxxxxx 003 - The Case of the Clue in the Column"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Man Hunt xxxxxx 003 – The Case of the Clue in the Column
• Release Date: July 18, 2025

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Introduction to the Mystery

The episode "Man Hunt xxxxxx 003 – The Case of the Clue in the Column" immerses listeners into a gripping narrative set in the Golden Age of Radio. The story unfolds in a dimly lit, deserted street, setting a suspenseful tone from the outset.

Notable Quote:

• Narrator [00:31]: "Manhunt and the case of the clue in the column. No crime has been committed yet. No murder has been done yet. No manhunt has begun yet."

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The Discovery of the Crime

Characters Introduced:

• Pat O'Connor: A tenacious reporter seeking an insider's perspective.
• Bill: A determined individual vowing to catch the murderer.
• Drew Stevens: A meticulous lab technician aiding the investigation.
• Sergeant Martin: The lead investigator on the case.
• George Axton: The managing editor with hidden motives.

The narrative kicks off when Sergeant Martin briefs his team on a grisly discovery: Alice Jennison, a renowned gossip columnist, is found murdered with her throat cut, and a knife left beside her.

Notable Quotes:

• Sergeant Martin [02:02]: "That's the way we found her, Sergeant, lying in the gutter with her throat cut and this knife next to her."
• Bill [02:06]: "It's set to happen on my night off. I'll kill that murderer when I catch him."

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Unraveling the Clues

As the investigation progresses, Drew Stevens analyzes fingerprints on the murder weapon, revealing a shocking link to Joe Andrews, Alice's managing editor, who was also found dead shortly before her.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Stevens [03:24]: "The man whose print is on the knife that killed Alice Jennison was Joe Andrews."
• Pat O'Connor [03:29]: "Oh, good. Then we can get the murderer."

The team delves deeper, questioning George Axton, who claims to be the managing editor temporarily filling in. Axton's alibi appears solid until inconsistencies arise during the investigation.

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Suspicion and Deception

Pat O'Connor and Drew Stevens interrogate Axton, uncovering his connections and motives. They examine Alice's latest column, which contains cryptic hints that eventually point towards Axton’s involvement in a larger conspiracy related to Japanese propaganda agents.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Stevens [04:31]: "Well, her column didn't appear in today's paper."
• Unknown (George Axton) [05:51]: "I was just working out a new routine."

The tension heightens as Axton’s alibi is scrutinized, revealing he was seen at a movie theater at a time that doesn't align with his claimed activities.

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The Confrontation

Drew and Pat orchestrate a strategic move by requesting Axton to confess to the murders, hoping to flush out the real perpetrator. This bold tactic leads to a confrontation where Axton attempts to escape, resulting in a dramatic shootout.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Stevens [09:30]: "We want you to confess to the murder of Alice Jennison and Joe Andrews."
• Bill [09:43]: "Too close for me to miss too. I got him in the arm, I hope."

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Revelation and Resolution

In the aftermath, Drew unveils the intricate details of the case:

• Axton killed Joe Andrews and Alice Jennison to conceal his role as a Japanese propaganda agent.
• He manipulated evidence by swapping fingerprints to frame Andrews.
• His alibi was meticulously crafted by visiting the same theater to appear credible.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Stevens [10:16]: "Axton was one of them. Oh, the FBI confirmed it this morning."
• Pat O'Connor [11:50]: "She never let me down, honey."

The episode concludes with the triumphant capture of Axton, bringing justice to the victims and restoring peace to the community.

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Themes and Insights

"The Case of the Clue in the Column" masterfully weaves elements of suspense, deception, and investigative prowess. It highlights the meticulous nature of crime-solving and the importance of attention to detail. The narrative also touches upon themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the pervasive influence of hidden agendas.

Notable Insight:

• Drew Stevens [10:35]: "Axton didn't know how much Alice knew or how much he had told Andrews. And he wasn't taking any chances, so he killed them both."

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Conclusion

This episode stands out as a compelling addition to Harold's Old Time Radio series, offering listeners a blend of classic noir thrills and intricate detective work. Through vivid storytelling and dynamic character interactions, "Man Hunt xxxxxx 003 – The Case of the Clue in the Column" captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio dramas, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

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Note: Advertisements, promos, and non-content segments have been excluded to maintain focus on the core narrative.

Transcript

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Manhunt. The case of the clue in the column that led to manhunt. No crime has been committed yet. No murder has been done yet. No manhunt has begun yet.

[Pat O'Connor]

Oh, this is really a deserted street, what with the dim out and all. I'd be scared stiff if you didn't happen to come along just now. You know, only an inside tip on this story could bring me down in this section of town. Tell me, what brought you down here? What's that you're holding? No, no.

[Unknown]

Your victim is dead. Murdered, safely out of the way. And you've escaped so far. But the men who track down murderers are relentless. And if you've made one slip, they'll find you at the end of their manhunt. Manhunt and the case of the clue in the column.

[Sergeant Martin]

That's the way we found her, Sergeant, lying in the gutter with her throat cut and this knife next to her.

[Bill]

It's set to happen on my night off. I'll kill that murderer when I catch him.

[Drew Stevens]

Saving the state money, huh, Bill?

[Bill]

Saving the state money, he says. Look, Drew, go run along home, both of you, huh?

[Pat O'Connor]

I'm staying.

[Bill]

I'm staying, she says. Beat it, Drew. You and your secretary both. I'll bring the knife and whatever else we find to your laboratory in the morning. I gotta find out who this dame is now.

[Drew Stevens]

You mean was?

[Bill]

Is, was. What's the difference? I gotta identify her.

[Drew Stevens]

Well, I'll save you the trouble, Bill. She is.

[Pat O'Connor]

She was.

[Drew Stevens]

Yeah, that's right, she was. Alice Jennison. She wrote a gossip column on a globe. Had a picture at the top of it. And if you want to lead, Bill, there was a big romance between her and Joe Andrews, her managing editor.

[Bill]

Joe Andrews, huh? Think I'll locate him right now. Thanks, Drew. You're a big help sometimes.

[Sergeant Martin]

Sergeant Martin, there's been another murder.

[Bill]

Another murder, he says. What is this, an epidemic? Who got it this time?

[Sergeant Martin]

We found the body down the street. A man there stabbed to death.

[Bill]

Well, I guess I'll have to wait a while before seeing my Mr. Joe Andrews.

[Sergeant Martin]

I don't know about that. There was a card in the dead man's pocket. His name is Joe Andrews.

[Pat O'Connor]

Drew, take your eye out of that magnifying glass, will you? I like to have people look at me when they're talking to me.

[Drew Stevens]

Well, all right. It's tough, but I'll look at you. There.

[Pat O'Connor]

Now what are you up to?

[Drew Stevens]

Well, I just checked the fingerprints on the knife we found next to Alice Jennison's body and I can identify them.

[Pat O'Connor]

Oh, good. Then we can get the murderer.

[Drew Stevens]

No, no, no, I don't think so. The man whose print is on the knife that killed Alice Jennison was Joe Andrews. And he was killed a half hour before she was. Oh, Mr. Andrew's office was that one straight ahead. But you'll find George Axton in him now. Thanks very much. Come on, Pat.

[Pat O'Connor]

I'm coming.

[Drew Stevens]

This must be it. I beg your pardon. Are you George Axton?

[Unknown]

Yes. Won't you come in?

[Drew Stevens]

Thank you. I'm Drew Stevens. This is Pat o'. Connor.

[Pat O'Connor]

How do you do?

[Drew Stevens]

We're from the police.

[Unknown]

After 20 years on this paper, I thought I knew everybody in the homicide department.

[Drew Stevens]

Well, we're not homicide. I'm in charge of the police lab. This is practically an unofficial visit.

[Unknown]

It doesn't matter. Anything I can do to help? Count me in.

[Drew Stevens]

Good. Are you managing editor now, Mr. Axton?

[Unknown]

Oh, this job isn't for me. I'm strict to hear copy reader on the city desk. I'm just filling in. Now, what can I do to help?

[Drew Stevens]

Well, I don't know exactly. First, though, you can tell me if either Ms. Jennison or Mr. Andrews had any enemies.

[Unknown]

Andrews? No. But the girl had a million of them and made more every day with her column. She was a wonderful reporter, Mr. Stevens. She wrote the stuff folks like to read. But she hurt lots of people.

[Drew Stevens]

Well, her column didn't appear in today's paper.

[Unknown]

It never was finished. She started it, was called out on the phone and never came back.

[Drew Stevens]

Say, I. I wonder if I could see the copy she wrote before she left.

[Unknown]

Certainly. She always turned a copy into me. Here it is. Just three items on the page, huh?

[Drew Stevens]

Oh, thanks. I see.

[Pat O'Connor]

I don't want to read over your shoulder, Drew. Read them out loud.

[Drew Stevens]

Oh, all right. Here they are. First one is who is the chorus cutie? That George Mallory, the big stocks and blondes man will back in a new show oh, that's cute. The second says, Tommy Day, the tap dancer, ought to take a tip and stop tapping at the door of a certain social registrized Park Avenue apartment. Her fiance's due back home soon. Hmm.

[Pat O'Connor]

And what's the third item?

[Drew Stevens]

Nothing important. No names. Something about the Japanese government having paid propaganda agents in this country. Well, everybody knows that those things you.

[Unknown]

Read are the kind of items Alice printed every day.

[Drew Stevens]

Yes, I know. Well, I think I'll follow through on them, though. Thanks for the help, Axton.

[Unknown]

Nothing at all, I assure you.

[Drew Stevens]

Oh. Oh, by the way, where were you at midnight last night? Here.

[Unknown]

No, I wasn't. I'd been here. But I generally managed to make a movie about that time. We don't put the paper to bed until 3am and I've got some time off.

[Drew Stevens]

Well, this is by no means an official inquiry. I'm in charge of the police laboratory and really no right to ask questions, but. Well, can you prove you were in the movies?

[Unknown]

Well, it was the Rex Theater and I saw the Jimmy Cagney picture. The doorman might remember me. I asked him what time the feature went on. I wanted to be sure I could see it and be back in time.

[Drew Stevens]

I see. Thanks a lot.

[Pat O'Connor]

Where to now, Drew?

[Drew Stevens]

Well, you go see the stockbroker George Mallory, and I'll see the tap dancer Alice Jennison wrote about. Then meet me at the Star Theater.

[Pat O'Connor]

And what are you going to be doing while I'm down at Wall Street?

[Unknown]

I think I could answer that, Ms. O'. Connor. I think Mr. Stevens going to check my. Shall I say alibi?

[Drew Stevens]

Sure, you should say alibi. And that's exactly what I would do. Only I don't have to. You see, Bill Morton said he's already checked it. He talked to the doorman and found out you were there. So, Mr. Axton, it looks like you're in the clear.

[Sergeant Martin]

Of course I know she's dead, Ms. O'. Connor. I read the papers. What difference does it make to me?

[Pat O'Connor]

Did you know she was going to print something about you in today's paper?

[Sergeant Martin]

Mr. Mallory, she printed something about me every other week. Now, if you don't mind, I'm busy.

[Pat O'Connor]

Just one more question. Where were you at midnight last night, Ms. O'?

[Sergeant Martin]

Connor? Only a cat would answer that question. Goodbye.

[Drew Stevens]

Come in, come in. Well, what is it? Hey, that's quite a fit of stair stuff you're doing there. Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Day, but I'm from the police. Police, huh? Come in, won't you? I was just working out A new routine. What is it? Oh, just a few questions. Did you know Alice Jennison was going to print an item about you in today's Globe? Yeah, yeah, I know it. And in fact I gave her the item. You gave her the story? Sure. When I give a good item, she gives me plugs in the column. Oh, I see. Besides, I want to get rid of that society dame. If that thing got printed, it would have given me a good out. Anything else? No, no, I don't think so. Okay. Well, excuse me then. Still got this new routine to work out. Yeah, I get it. Thanks anyhow. Goodbye.

[Pat O'Connor]

I've been waiting for you, Drew.

[Drew Stevens]

Oh, let's get out in the air, kid. I could use some of that fresh stuff. This door leads to the street, I hope. Duck, Pat, duck. Down. You all right, Pat?

[Unknown]

Uh huh.

[Pat O'Connor]

But this hat will never be the same. Did you have to push me down head first?

[Drew Stevens]

The hat would look worse with a bullet hole in it, Junior.

[Pat O'Connor]

Oh, you think those shots were for us?

[Drew Stevens]

I know it and it makes me very happy.

[Pat O'Connor]

Someday I'll buy you a shotgun and give you a wonderful time.

[Drew Stevens]

Pat. When the murderer comes out in the open. That way it means we're getting close to him and he's a little scared.

[Pat O'Connor]

You know something, Drew? Keep this confidential, but so am I. What have we got so far, Drew?

[Drew Stevens]

Three suspects. Two murderers and one headache.

[Pat O'Connor]

Make that two headaches.

[Bill]

Make that three.

[Pat O'Connor]

We don't have to solve this case tonight. And they've got a preview of the new Fred Astaire picture at the Rialto.

[Bill]

Preview, she says. They got. We got a murder, he says.

[Pat O'Connor]

Murder, he says.

[Drew Stevens]

Pat, stop it, will ya? How did you know there was a preview?

[Pat O'Connor]

Oh, a friend of mine works at Acme Pictures. She told me it's a secret sneak preview. They've been holding them all over town this week.

[Bill]

So what?

[Drew Stevens]

So maybe we get a break. Pat, get your friend on the phone and hold your breath while you ask her two questions.

[Pat O'Connor]

What two?

[Drew Stevens]

Ask her whether the Astaire picture was previewed at some other theater last night.

[Pat O'Connor]

Uh huh.

[Drew Stevens]

And whether in the movie Fred Astaire does a solo tap dance routine that can be copied. Now get on the phone. We need a favor. Mr. Axton, that's the reason we asked you down here.

[Unknown]

I told you you could count me in on anything.

[Drew Stevens]

We want you to confess to the murder of Alice Jennison and Joe Andrews.

[Unknown]

Confess? Oh, you mean as a sort of decoy to draw the real murderer out in the open?

[Drew Stevens]

Yes, It'll draw The real murderer out in the open. All right. We know you killed them both.

[Unknown]

You know too much. But you won't know it long this time. I'm too close to miss you with this gun now, copper.

[Bill]

Too close for him to miss, he says. Too close for me to miss too. I got him in the arm, I hope. I want this bird to burn.

[Drew Stevens]

He'll burn, all right. Take him, Bill. George Axton was just dumb enough to go to too many movies and not see enough pictures.

[Pat O'Connor]

You know, of course, I'm dying of curiosity, honey.

[Drew Stevens]

I know.

[Pat O'Connor]

Well?

[Drew Stevens]

Well, all right. You see, Axton killed Joe Andrews wearing gloves so that his own fingerprints wouldn't show. And then he took the prints from Andrews dead fingers. He then knifed Alice. But somebody came along and he had to drop the knife right there and run.

[Pat O'Connor]

What was Andrews doing down in the slums? And how did Axton know that Alice Jennison would be there?

[Drew Stevens]

Well, they were there because Axton, disguising his voice, had phoned them and claimed to have a terrific news story for them if they'd meet him. But what.

[Pat O'Connor]

Why did Axton kill them?

[Drew Stevens]

Well, you remember the third item in the column? The one we sloughed off about the Japanese having paid propaganda agents in this country?

[Pat O'Connor]

Yeah.

[Drew Stevens]

Well, Axton was one of them. Oh, the FBI confirmed it this morning. You see, Axton didn't know how much Alice knew or how much he had told Andrews. And he wasn't taking any chances, so he killed them both.

[Pat O'Connor]

Only one thing more. How did you know about Axton?

[Drew Stevens]

Oh, that was easy. Axton says he saw the Cagney picture at the rex Theater at 11:30. The Dorman confirmed the fact that he was there. But that night at that time and at that theater, they were holding a preview of the Fred Astaire picture. Axton had seen the Cagney film the night before and showed up again at 11:30 the following night to plant an alibi. He went in a theater and out through a side door immediately, you see?

[Pat O'Connor]

I see. So as far as the doorman was concerned, Axton stayed for two hours and saw the show.

[Drew Stevens]

Sure. Well, to wind this thing up, if Axton said he saw Jimmy Cagney when. When Fred Estaire was playing, it was pretty obvious he was covering up, see?

[Pat O'Connor]

Yes, I see. And you know, Drew, I've heard people say they could die just watching Fred Astaire dance. And George Axton is going to die because he didn't stay to watch. Just that.

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