Perry Mason 49-07-11 (1521) Smell of Death

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Perry Mason 49-07-11 (1521) Smell of Death"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: Perry Mason 49-07-11 (1521) Smell of Death
• Release Date: February 22, 2025
• Description: Radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio. The time before television when families gathered around the radio to enjoy timeless shows like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and many more.

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Episode Overview

In the episode titled "Smell of Death", listeners are drawn into a classic Perry Mason mystery where the esteemed defense attorney, Perry Mason, employs unconventional methods to exonerate his client, Nora Tragg, accused of murdering Sid Sammarino. The episode seamlessly blends suspense, witty dialogue, and character dynamics, staying true to the essence of the Golden Age of Radio dramas.

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Plot Summary

Introduction to the Case (02:20 - 03:15)

The episode begins with Perry Mason receiving distressing news: Nora Tragg lies in a police hospital, caught between life and death, accused of murdering Sid Sammarino. Mason outlines his strategy to prove Nora's innocence by implicating Sergeant Bill Barker as the true murderer. Mason believes Barker attempted to murder Nora and staged the scene to appear as a suicide.

Notable Quote:

Perry Mason: "While Nora Tragg lies helpless, hovering between life and death on a small bachelor police hospital, her lawyer, Perry Mason, is moving quickly to prove her instance of the murder of Sid Sammarino."
[02:20]

Planning the Strategy (03:15 - 05:18)

Perry Mason discusses the urgency of the situation with his associate, Paul Drake. There's tension as Mason delays responding to memos from Jackson due to his focus on the case. Mason reveals his plan to exploit Barker's superstition by organizing a fake séance with Nora's mother, Harriet Tragg, aiming to extract a confession from Barker.

Notable Quote:

Perry Mason: "An unusual way of trapping a murderer, isn't it? Well, now, it's about an hour after the close of yesterday's episode, but just about noon as Nathan returns to his office. No word from Paul Drake yet?"
[02:20]

The Clay Smell Scheme (05:18 - 07:47)

Mason explains his innovative approach to setting a trap for Sergeant Barker by using specific odors to manipulate Barker's superstitious fears. He introduces an "odor engineer" capable of duplicating various smells to achieve his objective. Mason demonstrates by using a test tube to recreate particular scents intended to influence Barker.

Notable Quotes:

Perry Mason: "Nowadays they can duplicate practically any odor node to man. And a few that aren't. Let me demonstrate."
[05:19]

Paul Drake: "Steak smell good? Steak, no. Hamburger. Why?"
[10:22]

Executing the Trap (07:47 - 11:20)

Mason and Drake proceed to Sergeant Barker's apartment, where Mason believes Barker is entangled in his superstitions. Mason leaves behind scents reminiscent of a fresh grave to provoke Barker. Concurrently, Drake expresses anxiety about their covert operation, fearing repercussions from Joe Waggett if discovered.

Notable Quote:

Paul Drake: "This is Sid's Bar, isn't it?"
[10:06]

Perry Mason: "We shall learn in tomorrow's exciting episode. Won't you join us? Tide?"
[11:20]

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Character Interactions and Dynamics

• Perry Mason: Portrayed as the ingenious and relentless defense attorney, Mason showcases his dedication to justice by employing unorthodox methods. His interactions reveal a blend of professionalism and personal concern for his clients' families.

• Paul Drake: Mason's loyal associate, Drake, serves as both a confidant and a source of comic relief. His frustrations and apprehensions about the case add depth to their professional relationship.

Notable Dialogue:

Paul Drake: "You don't have to tell me he's in a bad mood. Well, if the fate worse than death."
[04:30]

Perry Mason: "I'd rather have a bonus. And I'd like to have a periscope over that transom when Barker gets home."
[07:47]

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Themes and Insights

• Innovation in Investigation: Mason's use of an odor engineer highlights the theme of innovation in legal strategies, emphasizing the lengths to which he will go to secure justice.

• Superstition vs. Logic: The interplay between Barker's superstitions and Mason's logical approach underpins the narrative, showcasing the conflict between irrational fears and rational evidence.

• Moral Responsibility: Mason's concern extends beyond Nora to her mother, suggesting a deep sense of moral responsibility towards those affected by his cases.

Notable Quote:

Perry Mason: "Well, I'd like to be, but that's the way I'm going to get Nora off."
[03:38]

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Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

The episode concludes with a suspenseful setup, hinting at unexpected twists and the impending confrontation between Mason and Barker. Listeners are left anticipating the revelation of Barker's true intentions and how Mason's plan will unfold.

Notable Quote:

Perry Mason: "We shall learn in tomorrow's exciting episode. Won't you join us? Tide?"
[11:20]

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Production Notes

• Voice Acting: The actors delivering Perry Mason and Paul Drake exhibit distinct vocal characteristics that bring authenticity to their roles, capturing the era's radio drama spirit.

• Sound Effects: The use of sound effects, such as the whistling kid and ambient noises in Sergeant Barker's apartment, effectively immerses listeners in the setting.

• Advertising Integration: The episode features period-appropriate advertisements for Tide detergent, seamlessly integrated into the narrative without disrupting the storytelling flow.

Notable Quote from Advertisement:

Perry Mason: "No soap, no other suds, no other washing product known will get your clothes as clean as Procter and Gamble's amazing. Tide."
[01:58]

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Final Thoughts

"Smell of Death" stands as a testament to the enduring allure of radio dramas, capturing the suspense and intricate plotting that made shows like Perry Mason beloved fixtures of household entertainment. Through clever storytelling and dynamic character interactions, the episode not only advances the overarching narrative but also pays homage to the rich history of old-time radio.

For listeners who appreciate classic mysteries infused with creativity and timeless charm, this episode offers a captivating experience reminiscent of the golden era of radio.

Transcript

[Perry Mason]

Perry Mason, brought to you by Tide T I D E Tide, Procter and Gamble's new wash day miracle. Harry Mason, the famous character created by Earl Stanley Gardner, dramatized by Irving Ben Dake. Harry Mason, defender of human rights, champion of all those who seek justice. Tide T I D E Tide is Procter and Gamble's new wash day miracle.

[Paul Drake]

Tide is how Tide gets cocaine.

[Perry Mason]

Whoa, slow down, Franny. That sounds mighty good. But it'd sound even better if you'd say something about Tide and those new sudsing discoveries.

[Paul Drake]

Okay, Ted, listen to this. Tide gets clothes cleaner than any soap, any other suds, any other washing product known.

[Perry Mason]

Music to my ears, Franny. And so true. Yes, Procter and Gamble's Tide gets clothes cleaner than any other known product made for washing clothes. You see, Tide not only leaves clothes free from dirt, it removes dingy soap film too. Yet, with all its amazing cleaning power, Tide is truly safe for all your washable colors. In fact, Tide actually brightens those soap dull colors. And in hardest water, Tide gets sheets, towels, curtains, whiter than any other washing product known. Sound almost too good to be true. Maybe so. But, lady, it is true. No soap, no other suds, no other washing product known will get your clothes as clean as Procter and Gamble's amazing. Tide.

[Paul Drake]

Death out. T I D E Tide.

[Perry Mason]

While Nora Tragg lies helpless, hovering between life and death on a small bachelor police hospital, her lawyer, Perry Mason, is moving quickly to prove her instance of the murder of Sid Sammarino. How? Well, by showing the actual murderer to be Sergeant Bill Barker, who Mason also believes did his best to murder Nora, make his crime appear a suicide. What does Mason intend to do? He knows Barker is superstitious and he intends to make use of this weakness to soften Barker up. And then? Then Mason intends to hold a fake seance with Harriet Trag, Nora's mother, in charge. And here he hopes to get a complete confession. An unusual way of trapping a murderer, isn't it? Well, now, it's about an hour after the close of yesterday's episode, but just about noon as Nathan returns to his office. No word from Paul Drake yet?

[Paul Drake]

No.

[Perry Mason]

Get hold of his office delight? Never mind.

[Paul Drake]

Impatient, chief?

[Perry Mason]

Yes, very.

[Paul Drake]

Oh, you know, it's only been a few hours. Maybe it isn't easy to find some nice, damp, moldy smelling clay. Here are some nice memos from Jackson instead.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, no.

[Paul Drake]

Well, they have to be answered.

[Perry Mason]

They don't have to be answered now. I'm not in the mood.

[Paul Drake]

Oh, don't be so disgruntled. You can't be haunting Bill Barker every minute.

[Perry Mason]

Well, I'd like to be, but that's the way I'm going to get Nora off.

[Paul Drake]

I know.

[Perry Mason]

And I want to get her off Bella, before she regains consciousness. For her mother's sake more than Nora's, I think. That's funny. Girl gets herself in a jam and, oh, she's sorry. She suffers, but it's nothing compared with the sorrow and suffering of her parents. I. Oh, stop it. But remind me to never philosophize before lunch again. All right, let's have a look at Jackson's memo.

[Paul Drake]

Oh, saved by the bell.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, right. Hi, you gorgeous secretary, you.

[Paul Drake]

Hi, Paul.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, boy, did you hand me a job. You got the clay? No. You mean to tell me I got something better? Hey, give me a cigarette, somebody. I don't have any. Look, I don't want something better, Paul. I want clay. I thought I made it clear that I wanted clay.

[Paul Drake]

The chief is in a bad mood today, Paul. Here, have one of my cigarettes.

[Perry Mason]

You don't have to tell me he's in a bad mood. Well, if the fate worse than death. But I'll smoke one of your cigarettes.

[Paul Drake]

Oh, you mean it's a state? Better than buying your own.

[Perry Mason]

Thanks. You'll be the happiest little lawyer in the world when you see what I've got for you, Perry. Right here in this leather case. I'll put it on your desk. You see, the trouble with you, Mr. Mason, is you do things the hard way. Never mind the pitchman speech. You want the smell of good moldy clay, so what do you ask for?

[Paul Drake]

Clay.

[Perry Mason]

Exactly, Ms. Street. So what should I have asked for? Roses? We live in a scientific age, Barry. You want to build a bridge, you go to a construction engineer, right? I don't want to build a bridge. But you do want the smell of clay. So to cut a long story short, I'll tell you where you get it from. An odor engineer.

[Paul Drake]

What?

[Perry Mason]

An odor engineer? Exactly. Nowadays they can duplicate practically any odor node to man. And a few that aren't. Let me demonstrate. Now, in this test tube, I have. Mr. Mason, don't crowd me, please. Give me a chance to unscrew the top. Will you stop clowning?

[Paul Drake]

There.

[Perry Mason]

There we have it. Now the cap is off. Will you sniff this, Mr. Mason, and tell your lovely secretary with whom I am madly in love, what you smell. Docks. Smell. Boats. Tar ropes. Salt water. Right. Right the first time. Now, Della, I'm going to try you. Yeah. No, no, no. Don't back away. Just Sniff what I have in this tube.

[Paul Drake]

What is it, Paul?

[Perry Mason]

Won't hurt you. Sniff.

[Paul Drake]

Oh, Paul, how can you do this to me? She recognizes it just before lunchtime too.

[Perry Mason]

Why, what is it, baggage?

[Paul Drake]

Oh, steak, chief.

[Perry Mason]

Steak?

[Paul Drake]

Mm. Perfectly broiled steak. The kind I always order and never get a chance to eat.

[Perry Mason]

Okay, Paul. Well, look, we're convinced about your order, engineer. He's a great guy, but I. Wait, wait, wait. I haven't come up with a flash finish. Give me a chance, will you? Now, ladies and gentlemen of the Perry Mason office, I hold in my hand a third container. Would anyone care? Here, let me smell it. You're spoiling my act. All right, go ahead. Here you are. Moldy enough, Clay enough? Sniff this, Stella.

[Paul Drake]

No, I'll stay with the steak odor. Oh, well.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, no. Like you?

[Paul Drake]

Oh, definitely not. I. Oh, give me the shivers, Paul. Oh, that awful smell.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, nothing but a clay smell.

[Paul Drake]

Nothing but it smells like a fresh tomb.

[Perry Mason]

So you like my odor, engineer, huh, Perry? I'll buy him. How do you think Barker will like him? I don't know, but I can guess. Now we have to give Barker's apartment a. All done. What I was so sure of. My ground, rather my clay smell that. I'm afraid I broke and entered Sergeant Barker's apartment. Why, Paul? Oh, no burglary. You know, I left something on the walls, on the woodwork and the closets. As a matter of fact, the whole place smells like a nice fresh grave. Well, Paul, I take back all the mean things I've been thinking about you. I'd rather have a bonus. And I'd like to have a periscope over that transom when Barker gets home.

[Paul Drake]

Why, he sounds almost good nature.

[Perry Mason]

To be honest, I've been good natured all the time. Just that I've been anxious to get started haunting Barker now that the thing is started. What was in that second bottle? That one you smelled, Bella?

[Paul Drake]

Steak smell good? Steak, no. Hamburger. Why?

[Perry Mason]

Oh, nothing. Only just to show you that my heart is in the right place. It can. I'll take you out and buy you a lunch to go with that smell if I like.

[Paul Drake]

Come on, Paul, let's get started before he changes his mind.

[Perry Mason]

A couple of hours later, on the back stairs of an apartment house on the west side, we hear. What's that whistling? Just a kid whistling downstairs. You're not nervous, are you, Danny?

[Paul Drake]

Well, yeah. Why not?

[Perry Mason]

What have you to be nervous about?

[Paul Drake]

As if you didn't know. What do you think Joe Waggett would do to me if he.

[Perry Mason]

If he knew you were a stool pigeon for me. He wouldn't do anything, Donnie. Not a thing.

[Paul Drake]

Sergeant Parker.

[Perry Mason]

As long as you play ball with the right side, Dottie, you've nothing at all to worry about. Wait till I get my key.

[Paul Drake]

Oh, I'll be glad to sit down. Oh, my feet. You won't believe it, but I've been trying to save enough money to get a good pair of shoes for almost a year. Almost had enough once. I don't know why I had to get up this afternoon to come over here and report on Joe. You know more about what happens at the Rumba palace than I do.

[Perry Mason]

Don't talk so much. Go on in.

[Paul Drake]

I could use that sleep. I work until 4 in the morning, sometimes far.

[Perry Mason]

What's the matter?

[Paul Drake]

Nothing.

[Perry Mason]

It's kind of close in here.

[Paul Drake]

Yeah. Yeah, maybe that's it. Maybe it'll be better when you open the window.

[Perry Mason]

There's an exhaust fan. I'll turn on the exhaust fan.

[Paul Drake]

Yeah, you do that. Hey, could I have a drink in the bar?

[Perry Mason]

Right next to the radio.

[Paul Drake]

Thanks. It's worse over here.

[Perry Mason]

Over where?

[Paul Drake]

Here. Here by the bar. This is Sid's Bar, isn't it?

[Perry Mason]

Was.

[Paul Drake]

That's what I mean, was. Why do you think the smoke should be stronger, like next to Sid's Bar?

[Perry Mason]

How would I know? I'll open it, of course. A drink. Here's a glass.

[Paul Drake]

Even the glass. Nevada.

[Perry Mason]

I'll have to burn incense. Hold your glass. I'll pour you a drink. Here. One for me.

[Paul Drake]

Dave.

[Perry Mason]

Don't say it.

[Paul Drake]

Your hand's shaking. You're as scared as me.

[Perry Mason]

The smell.

[Paul Drake]

You don't smell like that, you know, even with the windows open, even with the fan going. It's getting worse. You think it would clear out with the windows open on the fan going. But I don't get that kind of smell ever works. Like public smells.

[Perry Mason]

What kind of smell?

[Paul Drake]

You know it as well as I do.

[Perry Mason]

What kind of smell?

[Paul Drake]

Hey, don't make me say it.

[Perry Mason]

I want to know.

[Paul Drake]

Okay, okay. All right. It's a dead smell. Kind of smell. There is after people have passed away. You recognize it too. I can tell by looking in your eyes. You recognize it. Hey, sergeant, you think melody. Because Sid Sparr.

[Perry Mason]

I don't think it is a thing. You shut up about it. Barker pretends to be angry. Does his best to work himself into a rage. A rage that will rid him of the sick, superstitious fear that fills his being. Well, Smith, but if you may have read the sergeant correctly, it may be that Your first attempt to soften Barker up is working. It also may be that you are in for a surprise. We shall learn in tomorrow's exciting episode. Won't you join us? Tide?

[Paul Drake]

E. Dirt Out. E I D E. Tide.

[Perry Mason]

You know, miracles do happen. And Tide is the miracle that happens in your dish pan. Procter and Gamble's Tide washes dishes cleaner than any soap known. Yes, and Tide cuts grease better than any soap. Just think, you get no scum in the water when you wash your dishes with Tide. No greasy ring around the pan. No cloudy film on dishes and glasses. That's why they rinse and dry sparkling clear, even if you don't wipe them at all. Honestly, the minute you use Tide, you'll know you've found a completely new product. Why? Tide makes a different kind of suds. Richer, faster suds. Suds that are kind to your hands. And, lady, in hard water, Tide is a dream come true. Tide works up oceans of rich, instant suds even in hardest water. And Tide, well, you really have to see it to believe it. So try Tide in your dish pan today.

[Paul Drake]

Just outside gets dishes cleaner than any soap.

[Perry Mason]

Any soap?

[Paul Drake]

Yes, any soap. Tide gets to be cleaner than any soap. T I D E. Tide.

[Perry Mason]

Perry Mason, the famous character created by Earl Stanley Gardner, is brought to you by Tide. Procter and Gamble's amazing new discovery for your whole family. Wash. Try Tide yourself and you'll agree you've never used anything like it. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.