
Matthew Slade, Private Investigator xx-xx-xx (07) Pattern for a Frame
Loading summary
Matthew Slade
Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse. With family. Cannolis and spins mean everything. Now you want to get mixed up in the family business. Introducing the godfather@champacasino.com test your luck in the shadowy world of the Godfather. Slots. Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me. Play the Godfather now. A champacasino. Com welcome to the family. No purchase necessary. VGW Group voidware prohibited by law 21/ terms and conditions apply. From Hollywood, welcome to Starlight Mystery Theater and another episode in the series. Matthew Slade, private Investigator. We invite you to take your seat as Matthew Slade unfolds. Patterned for a frame in my job. The hours are odd. So are the circumstances and the people I meet. You could even call some of them dangerous. My calling card reads, matthew Slade, Private Investigator. I was in my office sipping a freshly brewed cup of coffee thinking about my car being serviced at Max's Garage. I hoped he'd have it ready for me tonight. Yes, Jonesy?
Frank Venice
Max's Garage called and said your car would be ready by five. And, Max, there's a Mr. Venice here to see. There are two gentlemen with him.
Matthew Slade
The niece. He's the last person I want to see. All right, send him in. Slade. Yeah, come in, but tell your two associates to wait outside. Wait for me. Okay. Now, what's on your mind? Congressman Wakefield and your association with him. I don't discuss a client's business with outsiders. I don't consider myself an outsider. I'm well aware of the congressman's crusading instincts and what he's attempting to do. He's made some strong accusations which have been quite embarrassing to me. After all, I do have a position to maintain in this community. Look, let's not play games, Venice. I'm well aware of your background. I'm a respected businessman. That's the image you've carefully built. But underneath that facade, there's something quite different. I've been a patient up to now, but I want you to know, and you can tell the congressman that if these accusations continue, I'll slap a slander suit against him and anyone else who takes his position. Look, why do you come to me? Why don't you tell this to Wakefield? My attorneys have been in contact with him. But he's a very stubborn man. As well as being foolish, I thought you might be more sensible. You want me to pull the congressman off your back, right? Exactly. You're wasting your time. Then you intend to Continue your course of action. That's right. It could prove to be a very disastrous mistake. Another threat? Maybe something stronger than just a slander suit. You're no child playing adult games, Mr. Slade. I'm sure you know what's at stake. Yeah, enough to make me curious to know all there is to know. That's extremely distressing. I was counting on a more receptive attitude. Sorry to disappoint you. Now, if you exclude. Excuse me. I can assure you this is not the end. Well, as they say, see you in court. That could be a very prophetic statement, Mr. Slade. Remember, you've been warned. Frank Denise, the man responsible for most of the gambling, narcotics and prostitution in the city. He was running scared. I left the office at 5:30, walked to Max's Garage, picked up my car and drove home. I was finishing a very nice tender barbecued steak when. Hello?
Frank Venice
I have some very interesting information for you about Frank Sinise.
Matthew Slade
Who is this?
Frank Venice
The name's not important. What I have to tell you is. It may be all you need to expose me. I have to see you tonight.
Matthew Slade
My life is in great danger and you come here.
Frank Venice
Meet me at 472 Quincy street, apartment 25.
Matthew Slade
What time?
Frank Venice
8:30. And tell no one. Or the information I have may die with me.
Matthew Slade
472 Quincy street was in a deserted section of town. The slum area where apartments were being torn down in a redevelopment program. There were no lights, no one around. I climbed a broken staircase to apartment 25, cautiously pushed the door open with my foot, then entered the darkened room. Hello? Hello? Anyone here? Was no answer. Only the stillness, a stillness which was broken by what sounded like heavy breathing, was there. When I regained consciousness. I found myself bound tightly. Took nearly an hour before I managed to free myself. It was shortly after 10 when I arrived back at my apartment. I showered, changed clothes and relaxed with a good stiff drink and tried reasoning out what had gone before. Naturally, Frank Venice was my first candidate. It had to be one of his muscle men who worked me over. And he had evidently gotten to that mysterious caller before me. What I couldn't figure out was why had I been tied up? It didn't seem to serve any purpose. My contemplation was interrupted by the doorbell. Well, well, if it isn't Sergeant Donelli and the intrepid Lieutenant Flag. I'd like a word with you, Slade. Of course. Come on in. Sit down over there. Thanks. You're looking rather glum, Sid. What's wrong? You mind if we ask the question? Look, what is this? You come in here for a friendly visit. And right away you have to start acting tough. This isn't a friendly visit. It's business. Police business. You two sound serious. Murder is serious. Murder? What murder? Congressman Wakefield was found tonight with two bullets in him. What? He was shot to death just a few hours ago, Matt. You've been in all night, Slade. No. No, I haven't. What that got to do with anything? Play it straight, Matt. Take a friend's advice. You trying to say I know something about this? You're trying to say you don't? Yes, I am. And I get the feeling you don't believe me. We'll decide that later. What time did you go out tonight? It was about quarter to eight. And where did you go? You see, I received a phone call about 7:30. The caller asked me to meet her in an apartment on Quincy Street. When I got there, the place was deserted. Or so I thought. Then someone jumped me and I came to. I was tied up. Took me about an hour to get free and then I came back here. That was about 10:30. Take a look at this gun, Matt. Can you identify it? Yeah, the one I keep in my office. How'd you get a hold of it? We found it in Wakefield's driveway. That's the gun that was used on him. We already checked it. The only prints we found on it were yours. So you think I killed him? It looks that way. Now it's all very clear. The call being blackjacked and tied up. I wasn't supposed to be able to account for my time tonight. Look, isn't it obvious to you two I'm being set up for a frame? You surprised me, Slade. I figured you'd have come up with a better story than that. Well, it may sound contrived, but it happens to be true. I'd like to believe that. You two really think I killed Wakefield, don't you? Look, I was working with him. You both know we've been after Frank Vanish. Why would I want to kill him? We've got that too. Enlighten your friend, Sergeant. We've got an eyewitness. She swears she saw you shoot him. Well, whoever she is, she's lying. She claims to be Wakefield's girlfriend. Said you and she were together tonight. But Wakefield came in unexpectedly. There was a fight and you shot. Ah, come on, Sid. There's the gun, Slade. And the fact that you can't satisfactorily account for your time between the hours of 8 and 10. That's when the coroner established time of death. You want to tell us the truth now? You've already heard it. Okay, get your coat. We're booking you for murder. It was a short drive to police headquarters. They put me through the routine booking procedures. Something I'd witnessed dozens of times but never expected to be a part of. I was taken to a cell where I waited for my attorney, Dan Brody. Matt. I can't believe you're not the only one. Dan, thanks for coming. FLAG has really gone overboard this time. It's not just Flag. The evidence is rather overwhelming. Yes, and it reached a high heaven of frame up. Well, with the facts they've got, the truth spells me out as the murderer. Then we'll have to start building the kind of case that'll blast a big hole in their face. All right, where do we start? At your office tomorrow morning. There might be some clues to how they got hold of your gun. Oh, Matt, cheer up. By the time I'm finished, the DA's office will have to drop this case. Yeah. Morning, Ms. Jones.
Frank Venice
Mr. Brody. I've been expecting you.
Matthew Slade
Did you find anything here?
Frank Venice
Nothing. There doesn't seem to be any indication that the office was broken into last night.
Matthew Slade
Are you positive?
Frank Venice
Maybe you should look too. I may have overlooked something.
Matthew Slade
All right, let's start with this door. This is the only one leading into the hall, isn't it?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
It doesn't look as though this lock has been tampered with. Where did Matt keep his gun?
Frank Venice
In his desk drawer.
Matthew Slade
A locked?
Frank Venice
No, but his office door is always kept locked after he leaves.
Matthew Slade
I see. Were you able to talk to the night janitor? Yes.
Frank Venice
Lucas said he let a strange man out of the building just before 7. His description matched one of the men who was here with Frank. Denise, that should be a big help.
Matthew Slade
Maybe. But the fact that he was seen in the building isn't enough. We have to prove he entered his office. And a lot depends on how closely we can tie Venice into all this.
Frank Venice
How bad does it look for Max?
Matthew Slade
What evidence the police have is fairly conclusive. Maybe it's too conclusive.
Frank Venice
What do you mean by that?
Matthew Slade
Well, it's all so perfect, so clear cut. Makes Matt look too obvious. I think Bernice tried to play two pat a hand. It may work in our favor.
Frank Venice
Then what will you do?
Matthew Slade
I'm not sure just yet. I have a meeting in an hour with the assistant da, Austin Brigg. Maybe something has come out of that. The only thing I am sure of is that Matt is not going to be convicted of murder. I'm going to Find some way to get the tr. Come in, Dan. Morning, Austin. You know Lieutenant Flagg, Sergeant Benelli. Of course. Gentlemen. Counselor. Sit down, Dan. Thank you. Cigar, huh? No, thank you. Seem to be in a very obliging spirit this morning, Austin. I'm open to anything you care to discuss. But I should warn you, I'm not in a deal making mood. But I offer you a chance to save yourself considerable embarrassment in court. Just how do you think I'll be embarrassed trying for a conviction against my client? Oh, you're very funny, Dan. Do you think so? Why don't you save everyone a lot of time and bother by pleading guilty? If you do, I won't push for the gas chamber. Now you're being funny. There's no question of Slade's guilt. Not even a reasonable doubt, Lieutenant. Not as far as I'm concerned. Oh, well, then I suppose I'll give all of you a good laugh when I see Matthew Slade as being framed by Frank the niece. That was his story. It doesn't sound any more convincing coming from you. Lieutenant Flagg supplied me with an excellent case, Dan. Oh, come now, Orton. Give credit where credit is due. The niece is the one you have to thank for that. If you can prove that, fine. I have nothing against Slade personally. I merely act on the evidence given me. I dare say, Lieutenant, that you aren't quite as neutral as Austin here. If you mean I'm not going to lose any sleep over Slade's predicament, you're right. He's a gun happy skirt. Happy gumshoe who was bound to get into real trouble someday. Barney, I've told you, you've got the wrong idea about Mary. Look, Sergeant, I can't tell you who to pick for friends. Just don't presume to tell me I'm wrong about. Let's avoid an argument over, shall we, gentlemen? I'm going to use all of this in court. Austin, don't think for one minute I won't use what your. Your arresting officer here is obviously prejudiced against my client. Are you accusing me of rigging the evidence?
Ryan Seacrest
Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest. Life comes at you fast. Which is why it's important to find some time to relax a little you time. Enter Chumba Casino. With no download required. You can jump on anytime, anywhere for the chance to redeem some serious prizes. So treat yourself with Chumba Casino and play over 100 online casino style games, all for free. Go to Chumbacasino.com to collect your free welcome bonus sponsored by Chumba Casino.
Matthew Slade
No purchase necessary vgw group void where prohibited by law 21/ terms and conditions apply.
Thomas Keller
This podcast is sponsored by IQ Bar. Your favorite clean, functional, delicious nutrition brand is raising the bar with a little help from Thomas Keller, Michelin star chef of the French Laundry. IQ Bar and Thomas Keller have teamed up to create a salted caramel chip protein bar and Yuzu Mango hydration mix. With toasted macadamia nuts, rich caramel flavor and brain boosting nutrients, this bar is like having a Michelin star meal in your pocket. Pair it with the tastebud Tingling Yuzu Mango IQ mix Hydration mix packed with magnesium and adaptogens to improve clarity and mood. With Keller's culinary excellence and IQ Bar's commitment to great taste and clean ingredients, this limited edition collaboration is simply. Mwah. And the best part is that 10% of sales go directly to Chef Keller's nonprofit mentor that supports aspiring young chefs. Great taste, great nutrition, great mission. Go to iqbar.com today and enter promo code KELLER20 to get 20% off all IQ Bar products, plus free shipping. That's iqbar.com, promo code KELLER20.
Matthew Slade
Oh, did you. Lieutenant, what are you. Barney, Barney, take it easy. Look, counselor, the lieutenant has a bug about private detectives. It's not necessary to make excuses for me. Okay, okay, that's enough. Would you come in here for the purpose of stirring up something? Dan, my only purpose in coming here was to tell you you're making a big mistake, Austin. Really? Let's find that out in order in the court. Proceed, Mr. Briggs. Now then, Lieutenant, tell the courts what you found when you arrived at the decedent's house. He was lying by the bedroom door with two bullet holes in his chest. He was holding the poker from the fireplace in his right hand. Ms. York, you saw the man who shot and killed Congressman Wakefield.
Frank Venice
Yes, I did.
Matthew Slade
Do you see that man in this courtroom?
Frank Venice
That's him over there.
Matthew Slade
Let it be recorded that the witness indicated the defendant, Matthew Slade. Now, Ms. York, tell the court what your relationship was to the decedent.
Frank Venice
We were friends.
Matthew Slade
I mean, more specifically, you were more than just friends. Isn't that true? We were lovers, Miss York. Yes. Now then, on the night in question, what transpired?
Frank Venice
Mr. Slade and I were together that night at Clark's home.
Matthew Slade
I see. Please go on.
Frank Venice
He came in and found us together.
Matthew Slade
And what was his reaction?
Frank Venice
I'm sure he wouldn't have lost his temper if Mr. Flade hadn't baited him.
Matthew Slade
What do you mean, baiting?
Frank Venice
He laughed at Clark, said He wasn't capable of keeping a woman.
Matthew Slade
Now, monsieur, please tell the court what happened after that.
Frank Venice
Clark moved to the fireplace, picked up the poker.
Matthew Slade
Did he make any move to strike the defendant? No.
Frank Venice
He made a verbal threat. That's when Mr. Slade shot him.
Matthew Slade
And what did you do? I was frightened.
Frank Venice
I thought he might shoot me. And then he ran from the room. That's when I phoned the police.
Matthew Slade
Thank you. Ms. York, is there any redirection? Yes, you, Honor. Ms. York, did you phone the defendant that night and ask him to meet you?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
And isn't it true that you asked him to meet you in a deserted apartment on Quincy street and not at the home of Congressman Wakefield?
Frank Venice
No, that's not true.
Matthew Slade
Need I remind you that you're under oath, Ms. Yorke?
Frank Venice
I'm well aware of that.
Matthew Slade
Well, I'm sure an attractive girl like you would find it rather stifling to have to spend time in prison on a perjury charge. Objection. Badgering the witness. You are. Sustained. You're a little out of line, Mr. Brodie. Please confine the question, the testimony given him direct. Very well, your Honor. Now, monsieur, what time did you call the defendant?
Frank Venice
Between 7 and 7:30.
Matthew Slade
And what time did he arrive?
Frank Venice
8 o'.
Matthew Slade
Clock. He drove his own car?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
You're sure of that? Yes. Please the court, at this time I'd like to enter some new evidence, Mr. Briggs. The state has no objection. Your Honor, I have here, sir, two reports. One shows that on the day of the Wakefield murder, my client's car was lubricated by Max's garage. Now, the mileage was required, recorded and indicates that at the time there were 12, 562 miles on the speedometer. I also have a report here verified by the police. And the day after my client was taken into custody, his car speedometer indicated 12,581 miles. A difference of only 19 miles. Now, on the day of the murder, my client drove from Max's garage to his apartment, then to 472 Quincy street and then back again to his apartment, a distance of exactly 19 miles. If, on the other hand, my client had driven to Congressman Wakefield's home, as Ms. York has testified, he would have had to travel an additional eight miles. Therefore, I submit Ms. York has perjured herself. The state must oppose the introduction of this so called evidence. Without meaning to demean the defense, counselor, it is obvious that such evidence is inadmissible. Anyone who knows even the slightest about cars knows how easy it is to turn back his pedometers. Take Offenses? That remark, Austin. You're saying I'm attempting to submit false evidence? No. Dynamo is suggesting its validity is questionable. Gentlemen, please. I'll have to take this evidence into consideration. Now. I see it's approaching 12 o'. Clock. We'll adjourn for lunch. I caution the jury not to discuss this case or draw any conclusion until all the evidence is in. Court will reconvene at 1:30 on that morning. Ms. Jones, you stated that the defendant had a visitor.
Frank Venice
Yes, actually. Three men came in.
Matthew Slade
Who were they?
Frank Venice
Mr. Frank Denise and two of his associates. I don't know their names.
Matthew Slade
Why did Mr. Venice come to see Mr. Slade?
Frank Venice
He knew that Mr. Slade was working with Congressman Wakefield on compiling evidence that would link him with a crime syndicate. He tried to persuade Mr. Blade to call off their investigation.
Matthew Slade
Did he make any threats?
Frank Venice
Nothing.
Matthew Slade
Over.
Frank Venice
Mr. Slade said that he was being persecuted and if they continued, it could prove disastrous. He didn't belabor him.
Matthew Slade
I see. And then he left?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
Now, Ms. Jones, the next day after the defendant was arrested, he received a call from a Mr. Max Cutler?
Frank Venice
That's right.
Matthew Slade
What was the nature of that call?
Frank Venice
Well, Max runs the garage while Mr. Slade has his car serviced. When he read about Mr. Slade's arrest, he called to tell me that he had noticed a man leaving Mr. Slade's car late the previous afternoon. His description matched that of one of the two men who accompanied Mr. Vinise to the office.
Matthew Slade
Now, how could he have known the defendant's car was at Max's garage?
Frank Venice
Well, Mr. Slade asked him to call Master's Garage to find out when his car would be ready. I was asking him the information when the three men entered. They overheard the conversation.
Matthew Slade
What do you suppose one of these men was doing at the defendant's car?
Frank Venice
He must have taken an impression of the office key.
Matthew Slade
Objection, your honor. The witness is drawing the conclusion. Objection sustained. Strike that from the record. The jury will disregard it. Proceed, Mr. Brody. Yes, your honor. Now, Ms. Jones, tell the court what you learned from Lucas Haynes, the night janitor of your office building.
Frank Venice
Lucas led a strange man out of the building after it was closed, sometime before 7 o'. Clock.
Matthew Slade
The same man seen by Max Cutler at his garage?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
And the same man who came to your office with Frank Venise? Yes. Thank you, Ms. Jones. The state may cross examine. Ms. Jones, you're employed by the defendant, Matthew Slade?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
For how long?
Frank Venice
Over four years.
Matthew Slade
And for those four years, you've been a loyal employee?
Frank Venice
Oh, yes.
Matthew Slade
And these gentlemen? Max Cutler and Lucas Haynes. I would Guess they friendly with the defendants?
Frank Venice
Yes.
Matthew Slade
And what about you? Are they fond of you?
Frank Venice
I think so.
Matthew Slade
Then would you mind telling me this story you just told? Was it your idea, the defendants or the defense counselors? Objection, your honor. No further questions. Order in the court. I won't tolerate this sort of outbreak. Your honor, the prosecution is attempting to belittle the witness. I'm well aware of what the prosecution is attempting to do. I must caution both counselors to try and remember their courtroom etiquette. Now, you may call your next witness, Mr. Bradley. Yes, you, Honor. I call to the stand Frank Benice. Everything Ms. Jones said is untrue. Is it, Mr. Benice? Yes. Oh, it's true. I paid a call on Mr. Slade that morning. But not for the purpose she stated. I wanted to retain Mr. Slade's service. Why would a prominent man about town like yourself want to hire a private detective? Well, I do have enemies, counselor. A man in my position will occasionally step on a few toes, however. An intentional. Of late, my family and I have been plagued by anonymous phone calls threatening harm. Really? Now why would anyone want to do that to a first class citizen in his family? As I said, I do have enemies. As to who made the calls. Well, that's the reason I wanted to hire Mr. Slade to find out. The only reason I paid him that visit. And what about this associate of yours who was seen by Max Cutler and Lucas Haynes? I think the assistant is district attorney has summed that up very neatly already. Besides, I have no associate or knowledge of anyone fitting the description he gave. Now tell the court. Are you acquainted with Rito York? No, I am not. Come now, sir. Isn't she on your payroll? Of course not. You make many accusations, Mr. Brody. I thirst. You're ready to back them up? The witness will refrain from addressing the defense counsel in that manner. Must I sit here and allow him? I'll handle the discipline in this courtroom, Mr. Benny. Now then, Mr. Brodie, do you intend to following this line of interrogation? No, your honor. I'm filled with this witness. Do you care to cross examine, Mr. Briggs? No questions, your honor. And does this conclude Your case, Mr. Brody? Now. Your honor, I'd like. But first I'd like to request a 30 minute recess. So I might discuss a vital point with my client. Very well. We could use the cooling off period. Court is adjourned for 30 minutes. Sit down, Ma. Where's Jonesy off to, Dan? I saw you with her and then she left the courtroom in a big hurry. I'm gonna try something, Mac. It's not strictly ethical and it could backfire, but I think it's worth the risk. Well, what is it? First, take off your coat and shirt. Do you mind explaining? Okay, but no arguments. Now, here's what I propose to do. Are you ready to proceed, Mr. Brody? Yes, you, Honor. Very well. Call your witness. Will Ms. Rita York please take the stand? Order in the court. I remind you, Ms. York, you are now Ms. Yorks. I'd like to go back to something you said in your previous testimony. You stated that you and the defendant were together that night. Is that correct? Yes. I take it this is not the first time you both were together under such circumstances. Am I correct in assuming that we've.
Frank Venice
Spent many nights together?
Matthew Slade
Then you've had, shall we say, close relations with the defendant?
Frank Venice
I don't know what you mean.
Matthew Slade
Now, Mr. York, surely we don't have to paint you a picture. How many nights have you spent with Mrs. Slane?
Frank Venice
Several. I can't remember exactly.
Matthew Slade
Come now, think, Ms. Yorke. Three? Four?
Frank Venice
I told you there were many.
Matthew Slade
Then if I asked you something specific about the defendant, you'd be able to tell me now, wouldn't you?
Frank Venice
What do you mean?
Matthew Slade
What I mean, Ms. York, is can you tell the court if the defendant has any outstanding scars, moles, birthmarks or tattoos on his body?
Frank Venice
I.
Matthew Slade
Come on, Miss York, surely you would have noticed something like that. Well. Your Honor, will you please instruct the witness to answer my questions? Ms. York, you must answer.
Frank Venice
No, no, I noticed nothing like that.
Matthew Slade
If it please the court, I would like the defendant to remove his shirt. Objection. Your Honor, Mr. Dody is attempting to turn these proceedings into some sort of fine shop. I'm attempting to establish the fact that this witness has perjured herself, you, Honor. I believe it to be a vital point. I'm going to allow a wide latitude here, Mr. Briggs. In the interest of justice. You may remove your shirt, Mr. Slate. As the court case plainly see, the defendant's chest is tattooed with the likeness of an eagle. Your Honor, I submit that the witness, Ms. Rita York, could not possibly not have known about this if she had told the truth. What do you have to say, Ms. York?
Frank Venice
I didn't want to get involved in this. You must believe that he forced me to.
Matthew Slade
Who is he, Miss Yorks?
Frank Venice
Venice Pride. Venice? He killed Wakefield.
Matthew Slade
I don't know how to thank you, Dan. Oh, save it. When you see my fee, you may feel different. Whatever the price, it's worth it. You know I'm very fond of my freedom. Oh, by the way, you can wash off that indelible ink with a good strong detergent. Oh, I don't know. I just may keep it. How can anyone destroy such a masterpiece? You know, your forensic talents, Mr. Brody, are surpassed only by your tattooing artistry. These are the nicest things. Mr. Detective, this is the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service.
Ryan Seacrest
Hello, it is Ryan. And we could all use an extra bright spot in our day, couldn't we? Just to make up for things like sitting in traffic, doing the dishes, counting your steps. You know, all the mundane stuff. That is why I'm such a big fan of Chumba Casino. Chumba Casino has all your favorite social casino style games that you can play for free anytime, anywhere with daily bonuses. So sign up now@chumbac casino.com that's chumbacasino.com no purchase necessary.
Matthew Slade
VGW Group void where prohibited by law. 21/ Terms and Conditions apply.
Podcast Summary: Matthew Slade, Private Investigator – "Pattern for a Frame" (Episode 07)
Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: July 18, 2025
In the seventh episode of Harold's Old Time Radio series, "Matthew Slade, Private Investigator: Pattern for a Frame," listeners are immersed in a gripping tale of power, loyalty, and deception. Set against the backdrop of the Golden Age of Radio, this episode follows the relentless pursuit of truth by Matthew Slade, a seasoned private investigator, as he navigates a web of corruption and betrayal.
The episode opens with Matthew Slade in his office, contemplating the delays in his car service at Max's Garage. His routine morning is swiftly disrupted by an unexpected visitor, Frank Venice, who brings troubling news.
Frank Venice (01:40): "Max's Garage called and said your car would be ready by five. And, Max, there's a Mr. Venice here to see. There are two gentlemen with him."
Slade's demeanor shifts as Venice confronts him regarding Slade's association with Congressman Wakefield. Venice, a respected businessman with a hidden criminal background, warns Slade about the escalating accusations against him.
Matthew Slade (02:30): "Look, let's not play games, Venice. I'm well aware of your background. I'm a respected businessman. That's the image you've carefully built. But underneath that facade, there's something quite different."
Despite Slade's attempts to defuse the situation, Venice remains steadfast, hinting at looming threats.
After his encounter with Venice, Slade returns home to find himself abruptly assaulted. Late that evening, he receives a mysterious phone call urging him to meet at a deserted apartment.
Mysterious Caller (03:57): "I have some very interesting information for you about Frank Sinise."
Driven by curiosity and the need to uncover the truth, Slade ventures to 472 Quincy Street. However, the meeting turns sinister as he is ambushed, leaving him bound and unconscious.
Matthew Slade (05:15): "I was tied up. Took nearly an hour before I managed to free myself."
Upon regaining his freedom, Slade's world takes a darker turn when he is approached by law enforcement. Sergeant Donelli and Lieutenant Flag inform him of Congressman Wakefield's murder, presenting evidence that incriminates Slade.
Sergeant Donelli (07:30): "Congressman Wakefield was found tonight with two bullets in him."
The evidence appears damning: the murder weapon matched Slade’s gun, and his alibi is shaky at best.
Lieutenant Flag (09:00): "We found the gun in Wakefield's driveway. That's the gun that was used on him. We already checked it. The only prints we found on it were yours."
Convinced of his guilt, the police proceed to arrest Slade, leaving him to face the daunting prospect of a murder charge.
In custody, Slade meets with his attorney, Dan Brody, to strategize his defense. Together, they identify inconsistencies in the prosecution's case, particularly focusing on the timeline and possible tampering with evidence.
Dan Brody (10:45): "With the facts they've got, the truth spells me out as the murderer."
Determined to prove his innocence, Slade vows to uncover the real culprits behind the framed murder.
Back at his office, Slade and Brody dissect the investigation's flaws. They discover that the timing of the car's mileage aligns perfectly with Slade’s movements, except for an additional eight miles that were unaccounted for in the witness testimony.
Matthew Slade (09:29): "It's all so perfect, so clear-cut. Makes Matt look too obvious."
This revelation suggests that someone has meticulously crafted the evidence to implicate Slade, pointing towards Frank Venice's involvement.
The climax unfolds in the courtroom, where Slade confronts the witness, Ms. Rita York, who testified against him. Through strategic questioning, Slade exposes York’s false testimony by highlighting discrepancies between her statements and his physical appearance.
Matthew Slade (21:34): "If it please the court, I would like the defendant to remove his shirt."
Revealing his eagle tattoo, Slade disproves York’s claim of not recognizing his features, thereby casting doubt on her credibility.
Matthew Slade (21:34): "These are the nicest things. Mr. Detective, this is the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service."
Realizing the strength of the defense’s case, the prosecution begins to falter, leading to a suspenseful pause as the jury deliberates.
"Pattern for a Frame" masterfully weaves a narrative of suspense and intrigue, showcasing Matthew Slade's unwavering determination to clear his name. The episode delves deep into themes of deception, the fragility of reputation, and the relentless quest for truth, all while maintaining the nostalgic charm of old-time radio dramas.
Notable moments, such as Slade's confrontation with Venice and the dramatic courtroom revelations, are punctuated with engaging dialogues and strategic plot twists, keeping listeners engrossed until the very end.
Note: Advertisements and non-content sections from the transcript have been intentionally omitted to focus solely on the narrative and key elements of the episode.