Mr Chameleon 53-04-24 Murder and the Million Dollar Smile (aka TragicMarriage)

Summary

Detailed Summary of "Mr Chameleon 53-04-24 Murder and the Million Dollar Smile"

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Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: Mr Chameleon 53-04-24 Murder and the Million Dollar Smile (aka TragicMarriage)
• Release Date: January 13, 2025

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1. Introduction

The episode opens with the signature narration introducing Mr. Chameleon, a renowned detective known for his mastery of disguise. The narrator sets the scene for tonight's case: "Mr. Chameleon in the Case of Murder and the Million Dollar Smile" (00:05).

2. Setting the Stage

The story unfolds in the opulent drawing room of Julian Ford's mansion, which overlooks Gramercy Park. Julian Ford, an elderly philanthropist, welcomes his niece Ethel Ford and her husband Alan Drake into his home.

Key Quote:

• Julian Ford (01:21): "Come in, children. Come in."

3. Introduction of Conflict

Julian announces his intention to invite a new guest, Jennifer Gray, a young waitress he met recently. Ethel and Alan express concern over this decision, suspecting Julian's motives.

Notable Quotes:

• Jennifer Gray Announced (02:11):
  • Julian Ford: "She's a girl I met some weeks ago... she's a waitress at a little restaurant down here. She's a sweet, innocent child whom I shall bring here and perhaps someday even adopt as my daughter."
• Ethel Ford: "But this girl, you know nothing about her."
• Alan Drake (03:24): "If he adopts this dreadful girl, he'll leave his money to her... I won't be cheated out of it."

4. Murder Discovery

On the appointed evening at 7:00 PM, Jennifer Gray arrives at Julian's mansion but is tragically found murdered in her rented room with a knife in her throat.

Key Moments:

• Discovery (05:00):
  • Julian Ford: "There's a knife in her throat. Mrs. Crabb, call the police. Hurry. The poor girl's been murdered."
• Narration (05:20): Mr. Chameleon and his assistant Detective Dave Arnold arrive at the scene to begin their investigation.

5. Investigation Begins

Mr. Chameleon inspects the crime scene, noting overturned drawers and scattered papers, indicating a possible search for something valuable.

Notable Quotes:

• Mr. Chameleon (05:29): "Jennifer Gray was stabbed to death sometime shortly before 7:00 tonight."
• Julian Ford: "This is horrible, Mr. Chameleon. Horrible."

6. Introduction of Suspects and Motives

Mr. Chameleon interrogates Julian Ford, revealing that Julian believes he is responsible for Jennifer's death. Meanwhile, suspicion falls on other characters, including the landlady Mrs. Hester Crabb and Mickey Collins, a man connected to Jennifer.

Key Quotes:

• Mr. Chameleon questioning Julian (06:07):
  • Mr. Chameleon: "How well did you know the murdered girl, Mr. Thorne?"
  • Julian Ford: "I was attracted by her simplicity and charm and we became great Friends. And now she's been murdered, and it's my fault."
• Mrs. Hester Crabb (06:35): "I run the pawn shop next door. The only one I knew of. Mickey Collins. And they had a terrible fight last night."

7. Uncovering Clues and Evidence

As the investigation progresses, Mr. Chameleon discovers a diamond bracelet in Jennifer's room, linking the case to Julian Ford's dubious past involving a copper mine.

Notable Quotes:

• Detective Arnold (07:03): "Jennifer would go to the police and maybe she the stolen bracelet in the murder room to make it look like Jennifer Grey was a thief."
• Mr. Chameleon (14:08): "That bracelet was discovered in her room doesn't mean that she stole it, Mr. Ford."

8. Mr. Chameleon's Deduction and Strategy

Realizing the depth of the deceit, Mr. Chameleon devises a plan to confront the suspects. He disguises himself as Caleb Watson to infiltrate Mrs. Hester Crabb's pawn shop, uncovering critical evidence.

Key Moments:

• Disguise Strategy (16:10):
  • Mr. Chameleon: "I'm going to become temporarily Caleb Watson... a face of my disguise."
• Confrontation at Pawn Shop (17:02):
  • Mr. Chameleon (as Caleb Watson): "I could go to the key you stole from Jennifer's room... I'll be back."

9. Final Confrontation and Resolution

The investigation leads Mr. Chameleon to deduce that Julian Ford is the murderer. Through evidence linking Julian to fraudulent activities and the motive to protect his gold mine interests, Mr. Chameleon confronts Julian, who confesses to the crime.

Notable Quotes:

• Mr. Chameleon (18:16): "Now take your hands off her throat. Julian Ford."
• Final Confrontation (19:31):
  • Mr. Chameleon: "Your motive was to protect your fraudulent claim on the copper mine..."
  • Julian Ford: "All right, Chameleon. It's true. I killed Jennifer Grey. I had to protect myself."

10. Conclusion

Julian Ford is apprehended, bringing justice to Jennifer Gray's tragic death. Mr. Chameleon reflects on the case, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the truth behind deceptive appearances.

Final Moments:

• Mr. Chameleon: "This is one time when I shall take great pleasure in watching the wheels of justice take their course."
• Narration (20:49): The episode concludes with a recap of the resolution and an invitation to listen to future episodes.

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Key Insights and Themes

• Deception and Disguises: Mr. Chameleon's use of disguise is pivotal in uncovering the truth, highlighting the theme that appearances can be deceiving.

  Quote:

  • Mr. Chameleon (16:11): "I'm going to become temporarily Caleb Watson... They’re always talking about them smart city slickers here too."

• Greed and Motive: The underlying motive of greed drives the narrative, as characters like Julian Ford manipulate relationships for financial gain.

  Quote:

  • Julian Ford (19:15): "I took over his claim to the copper mine in my own name and made a fortune on it."

• Justice and Integrity: Mr. Chameleon's unwavering pursuit of justice underscores the importance of integrity in solving crimes.

  Quote:

  • Mr. Chameleon (20:26): "Put the handcuffs on this man. This is one time when I shall take great pleasure in watching the wheels of justice take their course."

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Conclusion

"Murder and the Million Dollar Smile" is a compelling episode that weaves intricate relationships, deceit, and the quest for justice. Through Mr. Chameleon's clever detective work and strategic disguises, the truth is meticulously uncovered, offering listeners a satisfying resolution to the mystery. The episode remains faithful to the Golden Age of Radio's storytelling, combining suspense, drama, and moral lessons in an engaging narrative.

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Timestamp Reference

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• [00:05] - Episode Introduction
• [01:21] - Julian Ford welcomes guests
• [02:11] - Introduction of Jennifer Gray
• [03:24] - Ethel and Alan express concerns
• [05:00] - Murder discovery
• [05:29] - Mr. Chameleon begins investigation
• [06:07] - Interrogation of Julian Ford
• [06:35] - Introduction of Mrs. Hester Crabb
• [07:03] - Detective Arnold on Mickey Collins
• [14:08] - Discovery of the diamond bracelet
• [16:10] - Mr. Chameleon's disguise strategy
• [17:02] - Confrontation at pawn shop
• [18:16] - Confrontation and arrest of Julian Ford
• [19:31] - Final confession by Julian Ford
• [20:49] - Episode conclusion

Transcript

[Narrator]

Mr. Chameleon in the Case of Murder and the Million Dollar Smile. Tonight we again present the famous Mr. Chameleon of Central Police Headquarters in another of his celebrated cases of crime and murder. Mr. Chameleon, as you know, is the dreaded detective who frequently uses a disguise to track down a killer. A disguise which at all times is recognized by the audience. Tonight, the Case of Murder and the Million Dollar sm. The opening scene of tonight's murder case is the drawing room of a richly appointed mansion overlooking Gramercy Park. The master of the house, the elderly philanthropist Julian Ford, has sent to share his home. And now, as they enter the drawing room, the old man smiles at them. Little horrible consequences.

[Julian Ford]

Come in, children. Come in.

[Ethel Ford]

You wanted to see us, Uncle Julian?

[Alan Drake]

Nothing is wrong, I hope, sir.

[Julian Ford]

In fact, I have news for you and Ethel which I'm sure will please you very much. Ethel, you and your husband have shared my home for some time now.

[Ethel Ford]

Oh, you've been very generous to us, Uncle Julian.

[Julian Ford]

Nonsense. Good for alone. And now in a few hours, we shall have an additional member to our little household.

[Alan Drake]

An additional member?

[Julian Ford]

Yes, Alan. I'm bringing a guest. A young woman named Jennifer Gray. And.

[Ethel Ford]

What are you saying, Uncle Julian?

[Alan Drake]

Who is this Jennifer Gray?

[Julian Ford]

She's a girl I met some weeks ago when I was taking my walk in Gramercy Park. I've seen her every day since then. She's a waitress at a little restaurant down here.

[Ethel Ford]

To this house to live?

[Julian Ford]

Yes, Ethel De. She has no family or friends and not much education, I'm afraid. But her smile. By the moment I saw that warm, ingratiating smile of hers, I felt drawn to her. I felt toward her as if she was the dog.

[Ethel Ford]

We understand how you must feel and how kind you always are. But this girl, you know nothing about her.

[Alan Drake]

She's probably a conniving little fortune hunter taking advantage of.

[Julian Ford]

I assure you, Alan, she's a sweet, innocent child whom I shall bring here and perhaps someday even adopt as my daughter.

[Ethel Ford]

Uncle Julian, we realize how generous you are.

[Alan Drake]

Too generous, perhaps, for your own good. Uncle, this young woman could be dangerous. She's a total stranger. And to bring her into this.

[Julian Ford]

Still the master of it. Now, I'm picking up Jennifer Gray at her rooming house at 7 this evening and bringing her home with me and I.

[Ethel Ford]

As you wish, of course, Uncle Julian.

[Alan Drake]

Naturally, sir.

[Julian Ford]

I'm going to the study. I'll see you both lately.

[Ethel Ford]

This is outrageous.

[Alan Drake]

I always knew your uncle was eccentric, Ethel, but now he's one stark raving mad.

[Ethel Ford]

Alan. If he Adopts this dreadful girl. He'll leave his money to her, Every.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Penny of it, probably.

[Ethel Ford]

She'll be getting money that belongs to us. Money I've waited for all these years. Years. And I won't be cheated out of it. I won't, I tell you I won't.

[Alan Drake]

Your Uncle Julian is a fool.

[Ethel Ford]

What are we going to do, Alice? He's bringing her here at 7:00.

[Alan Drake]

Don't worry, my dear. She won't be coming here at seven. Word, Ethel? Jennifer Gray will never set foot inside this house.

[Narrator]

Now, promptly at 7:00 that evening, Jennifer Gray has a rented room. And he is greeted by the landlady, Mrs. Hester Crabb, who says to him.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Jenner, come on, I'll go along with you. I want to say goodbye to her.

[Julian Ford]

Thank you, Mrs. Cribb.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Oh. You know, Mr. Ford, ain't many girls alone in New York who are as lucky as she is.

[Julian Ford]

I'm the one who's lucky, Mrs. Cribb, to have met a girl like Jennifer Grady. What a sweet, lovely child. She has the nicest smile I've ever seen.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

So, looks like it's turned out to be. Well, she deserves a break. She's real excited about going to live in that big, elegant house of yours. Here we are. This is her room.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Surfer. My dear, it's Mr. Ford.

[Julian Ford]

I've come for you.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

That's queer.

[Julian Ford]

Jennifer, are you in there?

[Ethel Ford]

Jennifer, why didn't you.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Oh.

[Ethel Ford]

Oh, Mr. Fort.

[Narrator]

Look.

[Ethel Ford]

There on the bed. It's Jennifer Graves.

[Julian Ford]

Dear heaven. There's a knife in her throat. Mrs. Crab, call the police. Hurry. The poor girl's been murdered.

[Narrator]

Now, half an hour later, we find Mr. Chameleon, the famed and dreaded detective, and his assistant detective, Dave Arnold, in the murdered girl's room. Julia.

[Mr. Chameleon]

The Chameleon says, Dave, Jennifer Gray was stabbed to death sometime shortly before 7:00 tonight.

[Julian Ford]

Looks as, sir.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Overturned bureau drawers, papers scattered over the floor. Whoever was here must have been looking for something.

[Julian Ford]

This is horrible, Mr. Chameleon. Horrible.

[Mr. Chameleon]

You're Julian Ford, aren't you? The millionaire with a reputation for helping people.

[Julian Ford]

Well, I made my money through pure Good luck, Mr. Chameleon. When they found copper on some property I own, I always felt I wanted.

[Mr. Chameleon]

To like Jennifer Grey, for instance.

[Julian Ford]

Yes, I have a house on Gramercy park where my niece Ethel and her husband live with me. And I'd invited Jennifer to stay with me, too.

[Mr. Chameleon]

How well did you know the murdered girl, Mr. Thorne?

[Julian Ford]

I was attracted by her simplicity and charm and we became great Friends. And now she's been murdered, and it's my fault.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Your fault, Mr. Paul?

[Julian Ford]

Because I. Because if I'd arrived half an hour earlier, she might never have been murdered.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Mr.

[Narrator]

I found this on the floor.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Oh, let's have it, Dave. Obviously expensive. Mrs. Cribb. You're the landlady here.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

That's right, Mr. Chameleon. And I run the pawn shop next door. The only one I knew of. Mickey Collins. And they had a terrible fight last night.

[Mr. Chameleon]

A quarrel? What about?

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

How should I know, Mr. Chameleon? But I heard him arguing up here in her room. He found a rocket. Number 712.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Dave, have Mickey Collins picked up and brought to police headquarters with Jennifer Gray. And if it led to her murder?

[Mickey Collins]

Jennifer's dead. I, I, I loved her.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Come now, Mickey Collins. Pull yourself together.

[Detective Arnold]

You had a fight with Jennifer Grey the night before her death. Maybe you wound up that fight by killing her.

[Mickey Collins]

That's, that's a lie. Yes, I, I went to see Jennifer last night, sure, but I, I didn't quarrel with her. I wanted her to go back to Cedar springs with me. Mr. Chameleon, Jennifer and I grew up there together.

[Detective Arnold]

And when she wouldn't go back, you threatened Teddy.

[Mickey Collins]

Last month, she left town and came here to New York without any explanation. I followed her and traced her here to the rooming house. Last night, I. She was living in terror of her life.

[Mr. Chameleon]

In terror of her life, Collins, what did she mean?

[Mickey Collins]

She told me she'd found out something and wanted to go to the police, but she was afraid to. Then pleaded, but she wouldn't explain it.

[Detective Arnold]

Sounds like a phony yarn to me, Collins. It's much more likely you got angry and jealous because she was going to live in that millionaire's house. So jealous it drove you to murder.

[Mickey Collins]

That's not true, Detective Arnold. Sure, I wanted to marry Jennifer, but I was.

[Mr. Chameleon]

I was possibly Collins. Or as Detective Arnold suggests, you may have wanted to stop her from walking out of your life and invented the story of her being terrified. But that remains to be seen. You may go for the present.

[Detective Arnold]

Pretty emotional guy, that Mickey Collins.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Yes, but he could be telling the truth, Dave. A young but afraid of whom and why. Dave, let's drive over to Julian Ford's house. I'd like to have another talk with him.

[Narrator]

And meanwhile, in the drawing room of the home of the billionaire philanthropist Julian Ford, his niece Ethel is Ellen.

[Ethel Ford]

Ellen, where in heaven's name have you been?

[Alan Drake]

Keep your voice down, will you? Ethel? Where's your uncle?

[Ethel Ford]

Uncle Julian's in The study. Oh, Ellen, that did.

[Alan Drake]

Yes. What about her?

[Mickey Collins]

She.

[Ethel Ford]

She was found murdered. Stabbed to death at her rooming house. Uncle Julian came home a few minutes ago and told me that Detective Mr. Chameleon is on the cage.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Chameleon?

[Ethel Ford]

He's supposed to won't have to worry about Jennifer Gray threatening our security any longer. We can. Alan, what's the matter?

[Alan Drake]

Ethel, listen. Comes here. I want you to tell him I didn't leave this house all day.

[Ethel Ford]

But that isn't true, Alan. Where have you been since 5:00?

[Mr. Chameleon]

Never mind that.

[Alan Drake]

If you're to tell this Detective Chameleon I was in this house all day. Can you get that through your head, Ethel? My very life may depend on what you say to her.

[Narrator]

Mr. Chameleon in the Case of Murder and the Million Dollar Smile will return in just a moment. A refreshing note about the music. Baritone Donald Richards as host. There's Music in the Air tonight offers a wonderful lineup of Viennese favorites with Alfredo Antonini's orchestra playing strictly from Danube melodies. Another new musical Cancan. Tenor Clark Dennis, soprano Francis Greer, vocal Eddie Johnson. And the serenaders join in the festive presented by CBS Radio later tonight. And now back to Mr. Chameleon in the Case of Murder and the Million Dollar Smile. Death in her rented room just before moving to the home of the rich philanthropist Julian, who was in love with her. That Jennifer feared for her life. Now at Julia. Is that her husband who was saying.

[Alan Drake]

To her tensely, Ethel, when Mr. Chameleon gets here, you're to tell him I didn't leave this house all day.

[Ethel Ford]

But Alan, that's not true. You went out of the house at 5:00 right after Uncle Julian told us about his bringing Jennifer Grey. Little Nep with us. Where did you go? Where have you been?

[Alan Drake]

Never mind that. You're to say that I depend on it.

[Mr. Chameleon]

That is a very interesting statement, Mr. Alan Drake.

[Julian Ford]

What?

[Ethel Ford]

Who are you and that man with you?

[Detective Arnold]

I'm Detective Arnold and this is Mr. Chameleon of the police.

[Ethel Ford]

Mr. Chameleon.

[Mr. Chameleon]

And you, I take it, are Julian Ford's niece, Ethel. And this is your husband.

[Ethel Ford]

How did you get in here?

[Alan Drake]

Yes, we didn't hear you.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Obviously not, Mr. Drake. However, Detective Arnold and I heard you very clearly asking. Hardly. And the man doesn't need an alibi unless he's hiding something. Like murder, for instance.

[Ethel Ford]

No, no. Ellen didn't kill Jennifer Drake.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Be quiet, Ethel.

[Alan Drake]

Mr. Chameleon, what you're suggesting is ridiculing.

[Mr. Chameleon]

A total stranger, perhaps for a Very logical motive. Alan Drake. Self protection.

[Alan Drake]

Self protection.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Perhaps even planning to legally adopt her as his daughter.

[Ethel Ford]

What?

[Mr. Chameleon]

As matters now stand, your wife inher Julian Ford's entire fortune. However, if Jennifer Gray had come here, had been adopted by him.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

You no right to say that.

[Ethel Ford]

We didn't resent that girl coming here. When Uncle Julian told us, we were delighted about it.

[Alan Drake]

Of course we were, Mr. Drake.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Detective Arnold and I overheard you warning your wife to tell us that you hadn't left her. Where were you between 5:00 and 7 this evening?

[Alan Drake]

I. I was out because I didn't want to become a suspect in that girl's murder.

[Mr. Chameleon]

You've already made yourself a very strong suspect, Mr. Drake. You had plenty of time to go to Jennifer Gray's room and stab her.

[Ethel Ford]

No. No, he didn't. Alan wouldn't.

[Mr. Chameleon]

And as for you, Mrs. Drake, you also had a motive. The threat of losing your inheritance. And with it, possibly your husband's love as well.

[Ethel Ford]

Stop it. I didn't go near Jennifer Grey's ruling house.

[Alan Drake]

And neither did I.

[Julian Ford]

It's no use, my boy. Tell them the truth.

[Ethel Ford]

Uncle Julius.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Come in, please, Mr. Ford.

[Julian Ford]

Alan, if you'll be honest with Mr. Chameleon, we can help you.

[Alan Drake]

What are you trying to do? Involve me in murder?

[Julian Ford]

You're already involved, Alan. Mr. Chameleon already knows you were in Jennifer Gray's room.

[Mr. Chameleon]

This is your lighter, isn't it, Mr. Drake? It has the initials A.D. engraved on it.

[Julian Ford]

I.

[Alan Drake]

All right.

[Julian Ford]

Yes.

[Alan Drake]

It's mine to believe.

[Ethel Ford]

Me.

[Alan Drake]

I went to see her to persuade her to change her mind about coming to live here. When I opened the door to her room, she was lying across the bed with a knife in her throat. It was horrible. And I. I didn't call the police because I didn't want her murder pinned on me.

[Ethel Ford]

Alan. Oh, Alan. You said that she would never set foot in this house.

[Mr. Chameleon]

But I never dreamt you meant to kill Ethel, you little fool.

[Alan Drake]

I told you I didn't kill her. What are you trying to do?

[Mr. Chameleon]

Send me to the electric chair?

[Julian Ford]

All I wanted was to help that girl.

[Mr. Chameleon]

If I. Mr. Chameleon, look.

[Alan Drake]

I found something.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Here, take it. What is it, Mr. Chameleon? A bracelet, Dave. A diamond bracelet.

[Ethel Ford]

What? What would a girl like Jennifer Grey be doing with a diamond bracelet? Uncle Julian? Had you?

[Julian Ford]

Certainly not.

[Mr. Chameleon]

I doubt if your uncle gave her this one. At any rate, this bracelet looks like some jewelry that was reported stolen some weeks ago.

[Julian Ford]

Stolen? Oh, no. No, I don't believe it.

[Mr. Chameleon]

The fact this bracelet was discovered in her room doesn't mean that she stole it, Mr. Ford. As for you, Alan, I have not arrested you yet, but don't leave the house until you hear from me.

[Alan Drake]

I swear I'm innocent, Mr. Chameleon. I swear it.

[Detective Arnold]

Bracelet I don't get.

[Mr. Chameleon]

I think I'm beginning to get it now. David, when we get to headquarters, I want you to check on something case. The one she was in the middle of packing when she was murdered. I have a feeling an important clue may be in that suitcase.

[Narrator]

Later at Central Police Headquarters. Mr. Chameleon is in the office of the Police Commissioner.

[Police Commissioner]

The murdered girl's suitcase was brought in.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Exactly as it was compared.

[Police Commissioner]

Chameleon. She must have been packing it to move to Julian Ford's house when she was murdered.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Yes, so I gather. Commissioner. Commissioner, I've already found it. But not among her clothes.

[Police Commissioner]

Excuse me. Police Commissioner speaking. Chameleon. Lieutenant Dale call.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Oh, thanks. Lieutenant Dale, you're calling. You found it, eh? Yes, yes. Come on, Dale. Thank you very much. Did you check on what I asked you to?

[Detective Arnold]

Yes, Mr. Chameleon, and you were right. The landlady, Mrs. Crib, who runs pawn shop next door to Jennifer Gray's rooming house has a police record.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Sure enough, I thought I recognized her.

[Detective Arnold]

Five years ago she was arrested for using her pawn shop as a fence. She was charged with being a receiver of stolen goods.

[Mr. Chameleon]

She stole the girl's room. Looks like the stolen bracelets. Great Scott.

[Police Commissioner]

Young Mickey Collins, who was in love with Jennifer Gray, said she had discovered something and was terrified.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Mr. Chameleon.

[Detective Arnold]

Jennifer would go to the police and maybe she the stolen bracelet in the murder room to make it look like Jennifer Grey was a thief.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Dave, I'm sure to get the proof.

[Police Commissioner]

What kind of a disguise, Chameleon?

[Mr. Chameleon]

I'm going to become temporarily. Caleb Watson just arrived in town. And this will be the voice of my disguise. By Tingo. Sure feels mighty good to be down here in New York. They're always talking about them smart city slickers here too. Up our sleeves.

[Julian Ford]

Yes siree.

[Police Commissioner]

Hey, that's great, Chameleon.

[Detective Arnold]

You want me to get all the suspects down here, Mr. Chameleon?

[Mr. Chameleon]

No, that won't be necessary, Dave, I want you to make. I'm going to pay a visit to that pawn shop of Mrs. Hester Krebs disguised as Caleb Watson. And.

[Narrator]

And sometime later, we see Mr. Chameleon disguised as Caleb Watson entering the dingy little pawn shop. Voice of his disguise.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Says you, Mrs. Crab lady who owns this pawn shop? No, ma'am. My Name is Caleb Watson. I'm Jennifer Gray's uncle. I heard about her being murdered.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Jennifer Gray was. Was your niece?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Mr. Chameleon]

She. Me, Mrs. Crab. I come to claim something that belonged to Jennifer and the key to her safe budget box.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

A key? I don't know what you're talking about.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Well, now, maybe you're changing the little racket you're running here. Jennifer called me yesterday saying she found.

[Ethel Ford]

What?

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

You must be crazy.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Well, now, I could go to the key you stole from Jennifer's room and I won't.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

I haven't got any key.

[Mr. Chameleon]

I'll be back. Oh, sorry, mister. Didn't see you standing in the doorway.

[Julian Ford]

Why don't you watch where you're going?

[Mr. Chameleon]

Well, said I was sorry.

[Julian Ford]

What about that key, Mrs. Cribb?

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Mr. Ford, I don't know what that old fool was talking about.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Don't lie to me, Mr. Forgery.

[Ethel Ford]

You're joking.

[Julian Ford]

Answer me. What have you done with that key?

[Ethel Ford]

I can't breathe.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Now take your hands off her throat. Julian Ford.

[Julian Ford]

Mr. Chameleon.

[Mr. Chameleon]

It's you.

[Julian Ford]

You came here in disguise.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Mr. Chameleon. Oh, Mr. Chameleon, you saved my life.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Were you trying to commit a second murder, Ford? Killing Jennifer Grey wasn't enough.

[Julian Ford]

I did what? What the devil are you talking about?

[Mr. Chameleon]

I suspected you of Jennifer Gray. Into the trap I set for you when Detective Arnold telephoned you and asked you to come here.

[Julian Ford]

Why, you're insane, Chameleon. Jennifer Gray was my friend.

[Mr. Chameleon]

She was also the daughter of Tom Gray, a man you defrauded 20 years ago when you jumped his claim to the Queen Anne copper mine after a mysterious accident. From an old newspaper in the bottom of the murdered girl's suitcase. Also from some papers in a safe deposit. The newspaper told of Tom Gray's death at the mine. And the paper in the safe proved that he, and not you, was the legal owner of that fabulous cop of mine.

[Mrs. Hester Crabb]

Kind old man, Julian Ford kill Jennifer Grey?

[Ethel Ford]

When did you suspect him?

[Mr. Chameleon]

My doubts were aroused of his home when he told his nephew Alan that I had discovered a cigarette lighter in the dead girl's room. So that you couldn't have known that it was your nephew's unless you yourself had planted it there. The way Alan planted the diamond bracelet there afterwards to take suspicion.

[Julian Ford]

All right, Chameleon. It's true. I killed Jennifer Grey. I had to, to protect myself. A few days ago, Jennifer came to me with certain papers which she, not I, was the rightful owner of the copper mine. I'd have lost everything, everything to her.

[Mr. Chameleon]

And she might eventually have even proved that you killed her father.

[Julian Ford]

No. No, I didn't kill Tom Gray. That was an accident. But I took over his claim to the copper mine in my own name and made a fortune on it institution. But I needed time. Time to think. So I invited her to stay in my home.

[Mr. Chameleon]

And she accepted. Never dreaming that your motive was murder.

[Julian Ford]

I was to her room in Stanton at 7. I returned with Mrs. Kreb pretending to discover her body. I thought no one would ever suspect that I, with my reputation for philanthropy.

[Mr. Chameleon]

Could be brutal murders I've ever encountered. Come on in, Dave. Put the handcuffs on this man. This is one time when I shall take great pleasure in watching the wheels of justice take their cause.

[Narrator]

And with these words Mr. Chameleon concludes tonight murder case. The part of Mr. Chameleon is played by based on the original story by Franken Ann Hummert Directed by Henry Howard with music selected by Victor Arden. Listen next Friday evening at the same time for Mr. Chameleon, the man of many faces in the custom Tomorrow daytime listening on CBS radio features John Reed King's lively give and take quiz show and very competition of Elaine Francis, Bill Cullen and their opposing teams on fun for all every BS radio with give and take and fun for all over most of these same stations. Don't miss a minute of these two delightful daytimers. Listen for Mr. Chameleon, the man of many pieces in the custody of the child murder case at the same time next week gangbusters go into action Saturday nights on the CBS radio network.