Once Upon A Midnight 1945-05-11 Malice Aforethought

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Once Upon A Midnight 1945-05-11 Malice Aforethought"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: Radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio. The time before television and the family all sat around the radio and listened to the shows of the time like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and many more.
• Episode: Once Upon A Midnight 1945-05-11 Malice Aforethought
• Release Date: January 20, 2025

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Once Upon A Midnight: Malice Aforethought", listeners are transported to the suspense-filled world crafted by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. This episode delves deep into the psyche of Dr. Edmund Bickley, a seemingly ordinary physician harboring dark intentions towards his wife, Julia. As the narrative unfolds, Hitchcock masterfully intertwines tension, mystery, and psychological complexity, promising a tale that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens with Alfred Hitchcock setting the tone for a midnight tale, perfect for the "hardy listener who favors a tale spiced with mystery and imagination" (00:22). The setting is the quaint village of Wyvern Cross in England, where Dr. Edmund Bickley resides with his wife, Julia.

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Character Introduction and Daily Life

Listeners are introduced to the daily life of Dr. Bickley and his wife, Julia. Through casual morning interactions, the strained relationship between the couple becomes evident.

• Julia Bickley: Described as a "battle axe" and older than Edmund, Julia's frequent admonishments highlight the tension in their marriage.

  "Really, Edmund, really. You might have been considerate enough to come home a little earlier." (04:19)

• Dr. Edmund Bickley: A dedicated physician who appears cheerful outwardly but harbors deep resentment towards Julia.

  "Sorry, Julia. Had to get through my patients, you know." (04:29)

The mundane routines are laced with subtle hints of underlying discord, setting the stage for the impending darkness.

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The Crux of Conflict

Dr. Bickley's internal struggle becomes apparent as he expresses a desire to rid himself of Julia.

"I wish Julia were dead. I wish. I wish I could kill her." (07:07)

This confession marks the turning point, revealing Bickley's malicious intent and the meticulous planning of the perfect crime.

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Introduction of Miss Madeline Cranmere

Miss Madeline Cranmere enters the narrative as a pivotal character who ignites further turmoil in Bickley's life.

• Madeline Cranmere: A newcomer to Wyvern Cross, Madeline is portrayed as a beautiful woman with striking blue eyes. Her burgeoning relationship with Bickley introduces jealousy and complicates his already strained marriage.

  "I haven't spoken to anyone like this in weeks. You see, I live here by myself." (10:48)

Their interactions are marked by mutual admiration and connection, deepening Bickley's internal conflict.

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Bickley's Descent into Darkness

Driven by his desire to be free from Julia and pursue a life with Madeline, Dr. Bickley devises a sinister plan:

1. Part One - Morphine Addiction: Bickley starts by administering a drug to Julia, exploiting her headaches to create dependency.

   "Corrective for uric acid Diathesis drug is no longer used... tends to produce violent headaches." (17:31)

2. Part Two - Fabricating Addiction: He manipulates Julia's siblings into believing she is a morphine addict by sending them deceptive information.

   "She's addicted to morphine. Morphine? You mean Julia takes dope?" (23:05)

3. Part Three - Overdose: The final step involves administering a lethal dose of morphine, ensuring Julia's death appears accidental.

   "Fifteen grains. Half would have been enough." (24:57)

Throughout these stages, Bickley's calculated actions reflect his determination to eliminate Julia without raising suspicion.

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Climactic Confrontation

As Bickley's plan unfolds, tensions escalate between him, Julia, and Madeline.

• Julia Confronts Bickley:

  "I won't stand this sort of thing, even from you." (14:15)

• Madeline's Intervention:

  "Edmund, you shouldn't have tried to see me." (28:51)

These confrontations heighten the drama, leading to a catastrophic unraveling of Bickley's facade.

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The Murder and Its Aftermath

The episode reaches its zenith as Dr. Bickley executes his final act:

• Administering the Lethal Dose:

  "Hold out your arm, Julia." (26:00)

• Julia's Death:

  At the precise moment Julia departs this world, Bickley is witnessed attending to another patient, establishing his alibi.

  "At the precise moment that Julia left this world, Dr. Bickley was at the other end of the village." (27:15)

However, the conspiracy begins to crumble as inconsistencies and unforeseen events threaten to expose Bickley's machinations.

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Conclusion and Cliffhanger

As the episode concludes, the gravity of Bickley's actions surfaces, leaving listeners in suspense about his fate.

"Dr. Bickley, what have you done? Have you put a noose around your neck?" (29:59)

The narrative teases the aftermath of his actions, setting the stage for future revelations and maintaining the psychological tension that Hitchcock is renowned for.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Alfred Hitchcock introduces the episode’s theme:

  "Once Upon a Midnight... what time is it in your house?" (00:22)

• Dr. Edmund Bickley expresses his darkest thoughts:

  "I wish Julia were dead. I wish. I wish I could kill her." (07:07)

• Julia Bickley confronts Bickley:

  "I mean, the message you left at the house." (11:47)

• Madeline Cranmere warns Bickley:

  "You have a wife." (29:20)

• Narrator underscores the gravity of murder:

  "Murder is a serious business. The tiniest slip may be disastrous." (00:54)

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Final Thoughts

"Malice Aforethought" serves as a testament to Alfred Hitchcock's genius in crafting psychological mysteries. Through the intricate portrayal of Dr. Edmund Bickley’s descent into murder, the episode explores themes of obsession, deceit, and the facade of normalcy. The meticulous attention to detail, coupled with Hitchcock's signature suspense, ensures that this installment stands out as a compelling narrative in the annals of old-time radio dramas. Listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next episode to uncover the full ramifications of Bickley's sinister plan.

Transcript

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Once Upon a Midnight. A presentation of the American Broadcasting Company. Dedicated to the hardy listener who favors a tale spiced with mystery and imagination. What time is it in your house?

[Narrator]

8, 9, 10.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Set the clock ahead. Make it 12. Midnight's the time for these stories. And now, here's your host, the noted director and producer. An expert guide along the path of dark adventure, Mr. Alfred Hitchcock.

[Narrator]

It was not until several weeks after he had decided to murder his wife. That Dr. Bickley took any active steps in the matter. Murder is a serious business. The tiniest slip may be disastrous. And Dr. Bickley had no intention of risking disaster. This was to be the most delicately perfect of all perfect crimes.

[Announcer]

Suspense, shock, murder. All the makings of a spine tingling mystery drama. In the hands of a past master of theatrical illusion, Alfred Hitchcock. We of the American Broadcasting Company believe this new series has the opportunity of becoming the most important and distinguished of its kind in radio. Mr. Hitchcock will appear in every program as the narrator. And will personally supervise the writing and direction of each highly dramatic tale. It is our good fortune that Alfred Hitchcock has an enormous interest in radio. In fact, the idea of this series originated with him. This is important because it means we have the great asset of a star with a personal enthusiasm in making the series a true milestone in radio. The musical score is handled by Felix Mills in a new and effective way. Instead of using music simply as a bridge between scenes, each episode will be especially scored for dramatic value. The music used to make plot points to add impact to the action and sharpness to the dialogue. We feel that in every way, this new radio series offers an unusual opportunity to combine broad popular appeal with truly distinguished radio treatment. We leave it to you to judge. You were saying, Mr. Hitchcock, that murder is a serious business?

[Narrator]

Oh, yes. And murderers are serious people. You know, one thing that has always fascinated me about criminals is that when you walk down a street, any passerby might be a murderer. They don't all wear black moustaches. I imagine most murderers behave just like mild, ordinary people. Until suddenly one day they turn and stab you in the back. Or drop a lump of cyanide in a friend's tea. I think this idea must have intrigued Francis Isles, too. For the murderer in his story malice aforethought, the Dr. Bickley I mentioned was certainly an ordinary person. A little fellow, lightly built, around 38, I imagine. Sandy hair, bit thin on top, small sandy moustache. You've seen him on top of a bus, perhaps, or you've met him on a train. Or if you'd lived near Wyvern Cross in England a few years back, you might have met him in the village, starting out on the morning rounds of his patients.

[Julia Bickley]

Good morning, Dr. Bigley.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Good morning, Mrs. Templar.

[Julia Bickley]

Morning, Doctor.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Morning, Miss De. Lovely morning.

[Julia Bickley]

Lovely.

[Narrator]

Oh, Bickley.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Mr. Tor. Good morning. Oh, morning.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Good morning, Dr. Bickley.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Good morning. How's your mother? Better than splendid.

[Julia Bickley]

Morning, Doctor.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Good morning. Morning, Mrs. Cheevy. Mrs. Harvard. Lovely morning. Lovely.

[Narrator]

Listen to the way he says lovely morning. I must say I do enjoy a cheerful murderer. Although when he got home, Dr. Bickley wasn't always quite as cheery. I suppose his wife Julia was what you would call a battle axe. Anyway, she was a lot older than Bickley. Almost an old maid type, I suppose. Probably would have been if Bitley hadn't married her.

[Julia Bickley]

Really, Edmund, really. You might have been considerate enough to come home a little earlier. Today of all days. How can Florence get on with her work if you keep her waiting to wash up your lunch? Things like this.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Sorry, Julia. Had to get through my patience, you know.

[Julia Bickley]

Well, of course. Do you want some more of that cold joint?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Just a glass of beer, I think.

[Julia Bickley]

Edmund, you have far too much to do to sit here drinking beer. Have you forgotten we're having guests?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

No, my sweet.

[Julia Bickley]

Besides, you know how beer makes you perspire. Oh, the Tours will play tennis, of course. You better put the net up first. You know how it sags during the first half hour. Then there are the two tables to be taken out and the chairs. And I think you better put the awning up in this sun. And after that you'll have to.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

My dear, I. I don't think I should be able to get all those things done.

[Julia Bickley]

My dear Edmund, they've got to be done. Have you finished? I'm waiting.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

A bit of cheese, I think.

[Julia Bickley]

No time for cheese.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

And I suppose I'm finished. Just as well we don't give tennis parties every day, isn't it?

[Julia Bickley]

Oh, I'm glad you mentioned it. The court will have to be rolled.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

What?

[Julia Bickley]

The tennis court, Edmund. Wet it down and roll it.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

But then I'll have to remark all the lines. Well, of course, Edmund, but I don't.

[Julia Bickley]

Now, Edmund, don't stand there. Get about it. Dear me. It's a pity I can't be in a dozen places at once to see to everything myself.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Yes, De.

[Narrator]

Well, that was a typical day at the Bickleys. Except on this particular day the weather and tempers were hotter than usual.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Game, isn't it?

[Julia Bickley]

Edmund, Mr. Tor has nothing to eat.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, here we are. Sandwich, Mr. Tor? Oh, I believe I will. And how is old Mrs. Parrot these days, Doctor? Yes, she's been ailing, eh? Well, Mrs. Parrot, I might say.

[Julia Bickley]

Edmund, Miss Rattery will have a sandwich.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Of course, Miss Rattery.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Doctor, you were asking about Mrs. Mrs. Paris. Oh, yes. As a physician, it's my opinion.

[Julia Bickley]

Edmund, not there, please. Don't sit there. That's Winfred Seat. She'll be back in a moment.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, Dave said that.

[Julia Bickley]

Try another, Edmund. They're a ball short. Ben just hit one into the gooseberry bushes.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, did he?

[Julia Bickley]

Well, go and look for it, Edmund. Don't let your guests.

[Narrator]

Don't get a missing big.

[Madeline Cranmere]

No, Benji.

[Julia Bickley]

Let Edmond. Oh, hurry, dear.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Yes, dear.

[Narrator]

And so, Gooseberry Bush looking for a tennis ball. Just as he was about to grab it with a hot and clammy hand, he heard himself a subject of conversation.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Did you hear the way she orders him about?

[Madeline Cranmere]

Awful, isn't it?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I'm hanged if I'd speak to a dog like that. But then I imagine a fellow like Bickley rather enjoys it, eh?

[Julia Bickley]

Oh, Benji.

[Narrator]

Well, you know as well as I do he didn't enjoy it. Especially when people laughed. All he could do was to clench his teeth and stare down into the bush.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I can't stand this. Not much longer. I can't stand it. I wish Julia were dead. I wish. I wish I could kill her.

[Narrator]

By the way, I'd like to stop a moment and tell you about a secret little weakness Bickley had. Every night he would soothe himself to sleep with what he called his visions. Little extravagant pieces of imagination in which Bitley was always a person of supreme importance. Sometimes it was Bitley the great painter or Bitley the great composer. Regardless of the role, he was always great, always a hero. He pull up his knees under the blanket, snuggle his head deeper into the pillow and then say to himself, well, what should we do tonight? I think I'll play for England. I think I'll beat Australia. Bickley, the great cricket player, was his favorite vision at bat for more than 10 hours. Amazing. Australia trying every bowler they had no use. The man's too good. The match went on and on until Bickley had broken the world's record by scoring 501 runs. Stupendous. @ the finish he was carried from the field on the shoulders of his fellow players, the idol of the cheering thousands, the man of the hour. But all was smiling and modest when the Prime Minister said Solemnly declare. You have saved England. Well, naturally, by this time Bickley was fast asleep. But those wild thoughts he had when his head was in the gooseberry bush form the basis of a new vision. He saw himself, the respective physician of Wyvern Cross, dignified, light hearted, strolling happily down the highway of life without a care in the world, without worry, without Julia.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

But how could I manage it? How could I kill her? How, without risk. How could I kill her? How? How. How could I kill her?

[Narrator]

For nights and nights he did not play cricket. Once. Then an extraordinary thing happened. A thing that got poor old Bickley mixed up. More than ever he fell in love. She was a newcomer to Wyvern Cross, a Miss Madeline Cranmere, who'd taken up residence at the old hall, a huge castle like affair on the hill. She was a girl of about 23, not pretty in the least, but except for her blue eyes, which were quite beautiful. Bickley had never met her until the afternoon he was summoned to the hall professionally and very hastily.

[Julia Bickley]

Dr. Bickley?

[Madeline Cranmere]

I'm Madeline Cranmere. So sorry to keep you waiting.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Not at all, Miss Cranmere. I spent a very enjoyable few minutes looking over the hall. I've never been up here before.

[Madeline Cranmere]

It's beautiful, isn't it?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Lovely. Perfect example of old Tudor.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Oh, yes, I wouldn't know.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, absolutely that. Carved over mantel, for instance. Quite authentic and fortunately not spoiled by restoration.

[Madeline Cranmere]

How interesting. You seem to know a lot about that sort of thing.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, no.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Before you leave, I must show you the whole place.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

That's very kind.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Not really. Actually, it'll be you who'll be showing me. Will you have tea, Doctor?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Tea?

[Madeline Cranmere]

Well, please do, Vera. Yes, Dr. Bickley will stay for tea.

[Narrator]

Dr. Bickley stayed quite late for tea. They talked of a hundred things. Art mostly. It came out quite naturally that Dr. Bickley sketched a bit, or tried to. And Ms. Cranmere was positive he must do wonderful work. From art they passed to other topics. And it was amazing how identical were their views. There wasn't a lull in the conversation until almost 6:00.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well, I suppose I should be running. Yes, I've had a most enjoyable afternoon.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Shall I confess something, Doctor? I haven't spoken to anyone like this in. In weeks. You see, I live here by myself. Except for the servants, of course. Already I'm finding life a little lonely. Oh, but you're coming back to sketch the hall. You promise?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

It's a privilege, Miss Cranmere.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Well, well.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, Ms. Cranmere. You called this afternoon. I mean, the message you left at the house.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Oh. Oh, yes. I don't sleep well, Doctor.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Any particular reason you can think of?

[Madeline Cranmere]

No. Just nerves, I think. You know.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Of course.

[Madeline Cranmere]

High strung, I suppose I am.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well, we shall certainly have to take care of that. I'll write a prescription at once.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Thank you, doctor.

[Narrator]

Dr. Bickley came away from the hall that evening and other evenings, too, feeling 10 years younger. These nights, as Brickley snuggled into his pillow to begin the happy journey into imagination, he had a new vision to lull him to sleep. Not merely life without Julia, but life with Madeline Cranmere. Madeleine Cranmere always at his side. Madeleine Cranmere, smiling beautifully. Always helpful and understanding. Madeline Cranmere, his life companion. His soulmate. Madeleine, the fair Madeline, the lovable Madeleine, the Lily maid.

[Julia Bickley]

That girl, Madeleine Cranmere is getting herself talked about.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

What's that, Julia?

[Julia Bickley]

You must have heard me, Edmund. You weren't asleep. You were sighing. Are you in pain?

[Narrator]

No.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

No. No. I suppose. I've been thinking.

[Julia Bickley]

I said that Madeleine Cranmere is getting herself talked about.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Really? Well, people around here will talk about anyone.

[Julia Bickley]

I don't mind them talking about her, but I don't like to see the Bourne family name dragged in the mud.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Bourne?

[Julia Bickley]

Denny Bourne. He's been seen up there several times lately.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

You mean they're. They're talking about her and Denny Bourne?

[Julia Bickley]

Don't shout at me, Edmund. What's the matter with you?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well. Well, I think it's abominable. Just because a young man has tea once or twice with a young lady. Lord. Beats me how these things get about.

[Julia Bickley]

But they do get about, Edmund. And other things, too.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

So it seems.

[Julia Bickley]

Is Miss Cranmere in good health, Edmund?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Why, I imagine so.

[Julia Bickley]

Then why do you have to see her every other day?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Now look here, Julia. If you're insinuating that I have a voice down.

[Julia Bickley]

I have a violent headache. You needn't bother to pretend with me, Edmund. I know you too well. Normally, I don't interfere with your amusements, but in this case, I warn you, I will not permit it.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Julia, I won't stand this sort of thing, even from you. You don't know the first thing about Miss Cranmere. If you think for one moment, judgment.

[Julia Bickley]

Do you imagine yourself in love with this girl?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

No. No, I do not. I think your beastly insinuation.

[Julia Bickley]

Thank you. I have no wish to hear. Now, will you kindly give me something for this headache?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

It's horrible, Julia.

[Julia Bickley]

And in future, will you please Stay away from the hall.

[Narrator]

This was awkward. Bickley had to go up to the hall that next afternoon. Otherwise he couldn't finish that portrait he was making of Madeline. He certainly found himself between the devil and her deep blue eyes.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Is it finished yet?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

In a moment. Just turn toward the light again, Ms. Cranmere. Yeah, that's it. Now if I could just. Oh, Lord.

[Madeline Cranmere]

What is it?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

It's no good. I can't get at you. Not the real you. I'll throw it in the fire.

[Madeline Cranmere]

No, please. May I see it?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

If you want to, but it's not good. Really.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Clever.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Do you really think so? I say that it's wonderful to hear you say that.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Very clever.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, I say.

[Madeline Cranmere]

I don't see what you mean by not being able to get me. I think it's exactly like me.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, yes, it's like you. But that isn't the point. I was trying to get at you. I mean, show where you differ from everyone else. I mean your expression, the way you hold your head, that lovely deep look in your eyes. Your wonderful, wonderful.

[Madeline Cranmere]

I think I understand.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Madeline. I suppose you know what I'm doing.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Yes, I know.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I'm making love to you. Yes, Madeline.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Oh, Edmund. Edmund. Pete. Go. Go at once. Open, please. Don't you see how wrong it is? How stupidly, inalterably wrong? You have a wife, Edmund.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Yes. Yes, I have a wife.

[Narrator]

That night in bed, Whitley had the most important of all his visions. He began to see very clearly how Julia would die. Murder is a serious business. A tiniest slip may be disastrous. It was Julia herself who put the final plan into his mind. For the past five years, Julia had been subject to headaches which the doctor sometimes treated with a mild injection of morphine. The first part of his plan was almost childlike in simplicity. He would give Julia her headaches with the aid of a drug he had read about in a medical journal.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Corrective for uric acid Diathesis drug is no longer used not only because of its prohibitive price, but because it tends to produce violent headaches.

[Narrator]

Next morning at every other morning at breakfast thereafter, Julia received a generous dose of this drug sprinkled lightly over her grapefruit. It was certainly a bit of luck that Julia had a passion for grapefruit.

[Julia Bickley]

Oh dear, dear, dear, dear, dear.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well, I'll have to get along. Lots of cases this morning. Goodbye, Julia.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Oh, dear.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

What's the matter?

[Julia Bickley]

Headache.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, bad?

[Julia Bickley]

Blinding. The worst ever.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, well, perhaps you better lie down for a while. I'll look in on you at lunch.

[Julia Bickley]

I can't lie down. It'll only be worse. You better give me something before you go, Edmund.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Give you what, my dear?

[Julia Bickley]

Whatever it is you always give me. I can't stand this.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Julia, I've thought for a long time that these headaches of yours were just the result of being run down. Now, it looks to me like something organic.

[Julia Bickley]

Well, what?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

That I can't say. But if they go on, I shall have to take you to see a specialist.

[Julia Bickley]

You'll do nothing of the kind, Edmund.

[Narrator]

The headaches went on and the treatment went on. Headaches? Morphine. Headaches. Morphine. By the middle of January, Julia was getting a good five grains a day. So far, so good.

[Julia Bickley]

Oh, Dr. Bittley.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Come in, Doctor.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Is Miss Cranmere at home, Vera?

[Julia Bickley]

Yes, sir. She's in the drawing room with Mr. Bourne Bourne.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Dr. Bickley. Good afternoon, Miss Cranmere.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Well, how are you, Bickley?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

How do you do?

[Madeline Cranmere]

Denny's just leaving. You won't stay for tea, Dennis?

[Alfred Hitchcock]

I'm sorry, I can't. Well, Miss Cranmere has been showing me your sketches, Bickley. They're not bad.

[Narrator]

Thanks.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

You must like the old place up here.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Very interesting, architecturally. Only trouble with these old places is that they're not very sanitary.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

How's that?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Plumbing's very bad, Dr. Bickley.

[Narrator]

Really?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well, it is regular typhoid trap up here, Doctor.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Well, thank you, Miss Cranny. I've had a marvelous afternoon.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Come again soon, Denny.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Right, Dr. Bickley.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Afternoon, Edmund.

[Madeline Cranmere]

That wasn't very clever of you.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Wasn't it? What's he doing up here? I don't like him.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Come and sit down, Edmond.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

You haven't answered me, Madeline. This is the 10th time I've run into him in the last month.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Edmund, are you so blind?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Blind to what? All I see is that you've constantly encouraged any Bourne to make this place a sort of.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Of course I've encouraged him. Because of you. Edmund. Don't you see? I have to let him come. I don't mind people talking about him and me. Let them say what they want. But I couldn't stand it if. If they talked about us. Edmund.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Madeleine.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Forgive me, darling. Don't ever be cross with me, please, darling.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Madeline.

[Madeline Cranmere]

I don't think you realize how difficult it is, Edmund. A girl like me in love with a married man.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I know. It's difficult for me, too. I've tried to think it out clearly. I even spoke to Julia.

[Madeline Cranmere]

When?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, long time ago.

[Madeline Cranmere]

You told her about us?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

No, no, certainly not.

[Madeline Cranmere]

I should Hope you wouldn't. What did you say to her?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I asked her for a divorce.

[Madeline Cranmere]

She wouldn't give it to you?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

She refused? Absolutely.

[Madeline Cranmere]

You see, Edmund? You see how hopeless it is.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

No. No, it isn't hopeless. Give me time, that's all.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Time. I seem to have a great deal of time, don't I?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Madeline, look at me. You love me, don't you?

[Madeline Cranmere]

You know I do, Edmund.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

How much do you love me, Edmund?

[Madeline Cranmere]

What a strange question. How can you ask?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Because I've got to know. I've got to know. Madeline.

[Madeline Cranmere]

I love you more than I could ever tell.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Thank you, Madeline.

[Narrator]

Well, that satisfied Bickley. But he realized now he'd better get a move on.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

My dear, I can't do it. I just can't.

[Julia Bickley]

I merely asked for relief, Edmund.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

But I gave you a grain, my dear, just before dinner.

[Julia Bickley]

I know now my head's worse than.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Ever, but it can't go on, Julia.

[Julia Bickley]

What can't?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

All this morphia. Very bad for you, you know. Well, you're coming to rely on us.

[Julia Bickley]

Will you kindly put what you mean into plain words, Edmund?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well, to put it bluntly, it will become a habit if you're hinting that.

[Julia Bickley]

I'd become a drug fiend. Really, Edmund, what nonsense. Kindly come to the surgery and give me an injection at once.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

No. If you want any more injections, you. You'll have to change your doctor. I can't administer anymore. For your own sake, Julia.

[Narrator]

Well, that night, Julia slept very soundly. Bixley crept slowly down the stairs to the surgery. Quietly he opened the drawer which contained the Morpheus Serene. Mmm. It had recently been used. Julia was following the course prescribed. She was now addicted to morphine. Self administered. Part one of the plan was complete. Now for part two. He sent a letter to Julia's brother and sister in a nearby town.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Just what is this all about, Edmond?

[Narrator]

Is Julia ill?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I'm afraid it's more serious than that, Hilda.

[Narrator]

Well, let's hear the worst and get it over with.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

What's the matter with Julia? Well, not easy for me to tell you this, but I felt as her brother and sister. You had a right to know.

[Announcer]

Julia's.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

She's addicted to morphine.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Morphine?

[Narrator]

You mean Julia takes dope?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

While you're visiting here, make some excuse to see her forearm. You can manage it, Hilda. You'll notice that the arm's almost covered with tiny punctures.

[Narrator]

Morphine.

[Madeline Cranmere]

It's incredible.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

A dope fiend.

[Narrator]

Well, that would be a nice thing.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

To get around, wouldn't it? We'll have to keep this hushed up, Edmund. Naturally. But I wanted someone else to know. I. I feel better somehow.

[Narrator]

You must admit that Bickley had done a very neat job up to now. By the time the brother and sister left, they were ready to swear that Julia was a drug addict. As he saw them to their car, Bickley was rubbing his hands in cheerful anticipation of the next step in the murder. He called it Part three. The Overdose. A few mornings later, Julia rose from breakfast with the worst headache ever. Bickley's face was almost comic in his effort to conceal his delight. This was the time. This was the day Julia would die. He locked up the morphine carefully, then went out on his morning calls. At noon, he returned home secretly to find Julia still suffering horribly. Good. He went to the surgery, unlocked the medicine cabinet, counted the grains of morphine into his hand.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15.

[Narrator]

Fifteen grains. Half would have been enough.

[Julia Bickley]

Hurry, please, Edmund, Hurry.

[Narrator]

Yes, dear.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Yes, dear.

[Narrator]

With his gloved hands, he filled the syringe, surprised at the steadiness of his fingers. At the last moment, he had another flash of genius.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Will you hold the syringe a moment, Julia? Thank you.

[Narrator]

Oh, the clever devil. Her fingerprints on the cylinder. And then, in all fairness, we must say it. Brickly gave his wife one last chance.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I'll take that syringe now. Julia. For some time past, I've wanted to ask you something. Will you reconsider your decision about divorcing me?

[Julia Bickley]

No, Edmund, I will not.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I'm not a child, Julia. I know my own mind. I'm in love with Madeline Cranmer.

[Julia Bickley]

I've known it for months. And nothing would persuade me to divorce you for her. The girl's no good, Edmund. No good at all.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

That's absolutely final?

[Julia Bickley]

Absolutely.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Hold out your arm, Julia.

[Julia Bickley]

Oh, thank you. Thank you, Edmund.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Go upstairs, Julia. Go up and lie down.

[Narrator]

Now, let's see, says Bickley, Julia will be dead in 20 minutes. No one knows you came home. Leave the house, go on your rounds, be seen on the street and establish you were not here when the tragedy took place. Be seen, Dr. Bill, she'll be dead in 20 minutes. Be seen in the village.

[Julia Bickley]

Afternoon, Dr. Bickley.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Good afternoon, Mrs. Wright.

[Julia Bickley]

Dr. Bickley.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Ah, Mrs. Templar. Lovely afternoon.

[Julia Bickley]

Lovely.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Good afternoon, Doctor. Benji. How's your leg?

[Announcer]

Oh, perfect.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Good afternoon, Mrs. Cheevy. Mrs. Harford. Lovely day, isn't it?

[Narrator]

At the precise moment that Julia Left this world, Dr. Bickley was at the other End of the village sounding old Mr. Tracy's heart. He wished Mr. Tracy's heart didn't sound so much like a clock ticking. It made him nervous.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

20 minutes from 12:30, that's 10 minutes of wine. She's dying. She's dying right now. Julia's dying. His heart is beating, living, beating. And hers is stopping. Dying. Stopping. Here. What's wrong, Doctor?

[Narrator]

It's the old ticker on the blinker.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Oh, no, no, no, Mr. Tracy. It's fine. You'll live. I think.

[Narrator]

Bickley didn't go home. Better let his maid make the discovery. What to do in the meantime? What about going up to the hall to see Madeleine? When he arrived, he found another guest barring the doorway. It was Denny Bourne.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I don't understand this, Danny. Where is Madeleine? Isn't she here?

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Well, she isn't feeling well, that's all. She's up in her room lying down.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Well, go up and see her.

[Alfred Hitchcock]

I don't think you should. As a matter of fact, old boy, I think you'd better not come up here at all from now on.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Really? And why not?

[Alfred Hitchcock]

Well, it's only decent, you know, after all, with Madeline and I just becoming engaged.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Engaged? You and Matt?

[Narrator]

Engaged?

[Alfred Hitchcock]

But then she didn't tell you?

[Narrator]

Oh, she promised she would.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I don't believe it. Why, you young fool.

[Narrator]

Let's not, after all.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Get out of my way. Now, see here, Big. Get out of my way. Madeleine.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Edmund. You shouldn't have tried to see me.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Madeline. Look here, this is all nonsense, of course.

[Madeline Cranmere]

No, Edmund, it isn't. I've thought it all out. We couldn't go on.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

You don't love Denny Bourne. You couldn't. Edmund, listen to me. This is what you're going to do.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Edmund, my shoulder. You're hurting.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Listen, you're going downstairs this minute and break this thing off. Tomorrow I'm going to London to buy a special license. You come with me. We'll be married in three days. We'll be married.

[Madeline Cranmere]

Let me go. Are you mad, Edmund?

[Julia Bickley]

You have a wife.

[Madeline Cranmere]

A wife?

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

My wife is dead. Dead?

[Madeline Cranmere]

Danny. Danny.

[Julia Bickley]

Danny.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Shut up. Shut up, do you hear?

[Julia Bickley]

Dr. Bickley. Dr. Bera.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

Ms. Cranmer's hysterical. Get me some cold water.

[Julia Bickley]

Yes, sir. But. But the telephone, sir.

[Madeline Cranmere]

You want it at once.

[Julia Bickley]

Mrs. Bickley, sir. She's. Oh, it's very bad news, sir.

[Dr. Edmund Bickley]

I'll take the call.

[Narrator]

Oh, Dr. Bickley, what have you done? Have you put a noose around your neck? Doctor, you were not supposed to know your wife was dead. You hadn't been home. Are those nights and nights of wonderful visions to be wasted, thrown away by one careless word? Dr. Brickley. Oh, how could you?

[Announcer]

There you have the first episode of Malice Aforethought. We'd like to leave you with one more fact which makes us feel that this series is destined for a really outstanding success. That is the popular appeal of the psychological mystery. The box office success of his psychological mystery films. Here are some of them. Rebecca. Spellbound, 39 steps, suspicion, foreign Correspondent, the Lady Vanishes. All names known throughout the country to millions of moviegoing Americans. The consistent success of the Hitchcock films is not accidental. It is based on two things. One, Hitchcock's creative genius as a director and interpreter. Two, and this, we believe, is important to you. The obvious trend of public interest today in the psychological mystery.

[Narrator]

Well, I'm terribly sorry we're not able to finish the story this week. As Bickley might say, telling a murder story is a serious business and it takes a little time. Please bear with us and just wait until next week. And let's see what happened to old Bickley. You think he'll get away with it? I wonder.

[Announcer]

This is the Blue Network of the American Broadcasting Company.