Perry Mason 51-11-30 (2144) No Mercy for Mae Grant

Summary

Podcast Summary: Perry Mason 51-11-30 (2144) - "No Mercy for Mae Grant"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Perry Mason 51-11-30 (2144) - "No Mercy for Mae Grant"
• Release Date: April 26, 2025

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Introduction

The episode "No Mercy for Mae Grant" opens in the early morning hours of a bustling city, capturing the essence of the Golden Age of Radio where families gathered around the radio to immerse themselves in captivating stories. The narrative centers around Perry Mason, the famed defense attorney, as he navigates a complex legal case that tests his moral compass and legal acumen.

Setting the Scene

At 00:32, Perry Mason sets the stage by describing the city awakening at six in the morning. The city is alive with early workers crowding the subways and news trucks hustling through the streets. This vivid portrayal immerses listeners in the urban environment where the story unfolds.

Quote:

Perry Mason: "It's about six in the morning already. A false dawn breaks over the great city as it spurs into activity." (00:32)

Encounter with Kitty DiCarlo

Shortly after, at 00:55, Perry Mason encounters Kitty DiCarlo, a troubled woman seeking solace in a bar. Her desperation is palpable as she expresses her need for a drink despite the early hour.

Quote:

Kitty DiCarlo: "I need a drink, though, to see what it looks like. Nobody in this town except you ever goes to work." (01:21)

Mason attempts to dissuade her from her plans, suggesting she seek comfort in non-alcoholic options. However, her determination highlights the underlying tensions and personal struggles that intersect with the main legal plot.

Meeting with the District Attorney

The narrative progresses to 02:24 when Perry Mason is summoned to the District Attorney's office. Here, Mason is briefed on the case involving Mae Grant, who is accused of the heinous crime of murder in the first degree. The District Attorney, Mr. Rapp, presents a stark contrast to Mason's approach, emphasizing a rigid and unforgiving interpretation of the law.

Quote:

District Attorney Mr. Rapp: "I believe in right. I believe in right triumphant. I believe evil is always punished." (06:00)

This confrontation sets up the central conflict of the episode: Mason's quest for justice versus the DA's unwavering pursuit of conviction, irrespective of the nuances of the case.

Legal Philosophy and Ethical Dilemmas

A substantial portion of the episode delves into a philosophical debate between Mason and Mr. Rapp about the nature of justice. Mason advocates for protecting the innocent and preventing legal technicalities from overshadowing moral righteousness. In contrast, Mr. Rapp views the law as an unassailable force that must decisively punish wrongdoing.

Notable Interaction:

Perry Mason: "Personally, I would rather be a watchdog guarding innocent persons from a mistake." (05:17)

District Attorney Mr. Rapp: "The law doesn't make mistakes, Mr. Mason." (04:36)

This dialogue underscores the ethical complexities inherent in legal battles and Mason's commitment to ensuring that justice is truly served, not just legally but morally.

Introduction of Frederick Apps

At 03:33, Frederick Apps is introduced as a pivotal character involved in the Richmond jewelry robbery case. His presence adds layers to the narrative, hinting at interconnected cases and the broader implications of Mae Grant's alleged crime.

Quote:

Perry Mason: "Frederick Apps. Abs." (03:28)

Apps' role becomes critical as the plot thickens, intertwining past cases with the current investigation and highlighting the depth of Mason's legal network.

Interactions with Anna B. Hurley

By 08:22, Anna B. Hurley enters the scene, providing support and strategic advice to Kitty DiCarlo. Their conversation reveals Kitty's anxiety and the intensifying pressure surrounding Mae Grant's case.

Quote:

Anna B. Hurley: "What happened when you talked to the district attorney?" (08:30)

Hurley's involvement signifies the collaborative effort to uncover the truth and assist Mason in navigating the treacherous legal waters ahead.

Climactic Legal Tension

As the episode progresses towards 09:30, tensions escalate between Mason and the DA. The stakes are heightened with the impending press conference and the looming threat of public opinion swaying the case against Mae Grant.

Quote:

District Attorney Mr. Rapp: "Justice always works, Mr. Mason. And since I represent justice. Do I make myself clear?" (07:24)

This culminates in a high-stakes legal showdown where Mason must leverage his skills and ethical convictions to challenge the DA's relentless pursuit of conviction.

Conclusion and Teasers for Future Episodes

The episode concludes with unresolved threads, setting the stage for future developments. Perry Mason is left contemplating his next moves, aware of the hidden opponents and the intricate web of deceit he must untangle.

Quote:

Perry Mason: "The app. Well, after talking to Frederick app. Perry Mason knows he's in a fight." (09:30)

Listeners are left anticipating the unraveling of the mystery surrounding Mae Grant and the true extent of the legal battle that lies ahead.

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Moral vs. Legal Justice: The episode juxtaposes Mason's moral quest for true justice against the DA's strict adherence to the letter of the law.
2. Complex Characters: Through characters like Kitty DiCarlo and Anna B. Hurley, the narrative explores personal struggles intertwined with legal complexities.
3. Ethical Dilemmas: Mason faces the challenge of defending someone who stands accused of a grave crime, raising questions about innocence, guilt, and the possibility of redemption.
4. Power of Press and Public Opinion: The impending press conference highlights the influence of media on legal proceedings and the importance of narrative control.

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Notable Quotes

• Perry Mason: "It's about six in the morning already. A false dawn breaks over the great city as it spurs into activity." (00:32)
• Kitty DiCarlo: "I need a drink, though, to see what it looks like. Nobody in this town except you ever goes to work." (01:21)
• District Attorney Mr. Rapp: "I believe in right. I believe in right triumphant. I believe evil is always punished." (06:00)
• Perry Mason: "Personally, I would rather be a watchdog guarding innocent persons from a mistake." (05:17)
• District Attorney Mr. Rapp: "Justice always works, Mr. Mason. And since I represent justice. Do I make myself clear?" (07:24)

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Conclusion

"No Mercy for Mae Grant" is a compelling episode that delves deep into the heart of legal drama, showcasing Perry Mason's unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth. Through intricate character interactions and profound ethical debates, the episode captivates listeners, promising further intrigue and resolution in future installments.

Transcript

[Nicole Byer]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms flyer today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com. oh, beers, this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Wayfair every style. Every home.

[Perry Mason]

It's about six in the morning already. A false dawn breaks over the great city as it spurs into activity. Already groups of early workers start to crowd the subways already. News trucks with the early morning city edition speed through the city right now.

[District Attorney]

As a news truck speeds up to.

[Perry Mason]

The intersection, drops off a bundle of newspapers in front of the newsstand.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Hey, why don't you look where you're going?

[Perry Mason]

Narrowly missing Kitty DiCarlo after crossing the street, stops in front of the darkened cocktail bar.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Doesn't look to me like anybody's in there. Can't even get a break before she goes to sleep.

[Perry Mason]

May I help you? Lady.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

You scared me.

[Perry Mason]

I know this. Can I help you?

[Kitty DiCarlo]

I need a drink, though, to see what it looks like. Nobody in this town except you ever goes to work.

[Perry Mason]

Bars aren't allowed to open before 8, Libby.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Huh?

[Perry Mason]

Close at 4.

[District Attorney]

Open at 8.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Well, folks, I can get a break before a.

[Perry Mason]

Sorry, but I don't, lady. Now listen, why don't you go to that restaurant across the street, get yourself a glass of hot milk or some coffee.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

I need a drink.

[Perry Mason]

You'd better buy yourself a morning newspaper, lady, and sit down somewhere and read it. Bars don't open till 8 o'clock. Which means you've got almost two hours to wait. Kitty DeCarlo doesn't bother about a morning paper. She just looks at the officer, then walks slowly and unhappily down the street in the direction of her hotel. Meanwhile, some miles away at the district attorney's home. Ah, Mr. Mason of the street. Come in.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Thank you very much.

[Perry Mason]

Thank you, Attorney. And thank you for seeing us at this time of the morning. Well, not much chance of my getting back to sleep after Craig brought me your client and the blank woman. I'm afraid that going to be a massive case, Mason. Huh? But then, of course, you don't know what we know. And I for one certainly don't intend to tell you.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

May I say something, Mr. Patuni?

[Perry Mason]

Yes, Mr. Be.

[District Attorney]

We have every reason to believe that no creative is.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, I'm Sure. Well, it's out of my hands now. If you'd like to talk to the assistant in. Sure, I'd like that. He's back in my library. First, though, nothing has been released for the press. We have enough reporters on our neck all the time, Mr. Mason. We don't go around waking them up. Why? Well, as you know, I have just returned the child in question to Mr. Grant. Yes. Mr. Grant doesn't know yet that Dory is not his own. I want the chance to tell him. Well, we've scheduled a press conference for 11. Nothing will get out about the parentage of the child before then. Well, thank you very much, Mr. DA. Imagine what a shock it would be. There won't be any leak from here now. I wonder what happened to App. Who? App. Frederick Apps. Abs.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Isn't he the one who.

[Perry Mason]

My boy. Yes. Yes. He's the one who handled the Richmond jewelry robbery thing.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Yes.

[Perry Mason]

Oh, here he comes. Yes, he was back having coffee. Ab.

[District Attorney]

Yes, sir.

[Perry Mason]

Come over here. I want you to meet May Grant's lawyer, Perry Mason, and Mr. Mason's secretary, Ms. Street.

[District Attorney]

How do you do?

[Kitty DiCarlo]

How do you do, Mr. Rapp.

[Perry Mason]

Mr. Rapp.

[District Attorney]

I'm sorry we had to meet under such conditions, Mr. Mason.

[Perry Mason]

So have I. Well, I'll leave you all. Thank you again, Mr. District Defendant. Now, watch here, maps. We'll steal your eyepiece. Goodbye, Miss Rees.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Goodbye, sir.

[Perry Mason]

Now, to get to the point, Mr. Rapp. You believe Mrs. Grant innocent dress.

[District Attorney]

And since we may only be able to hold her on an open charge, you've come to warn me that there must be. Unless she's released or booked on a specific charge, you'll try her out of jail with the writ of habeas corpus.

[Perry Mason]

I didn't come here to warn or to threaten the right to habeas corpus.

[District Attorney]

The new parent through which the criminal seeks to evade the majesty of the law.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

What was that?

[District Attorney]

That was Mr.

[Perry Mason]

Apt's way of putting it, fellas. I would say it keeps the state from arresting a citizen, throwing him in jail and holding him inductance.

[District Attorney]

Would you say that, Mr. Mason? Well, I suppose you would. But please understand me, even though I'm hampered by these. I'm not criticizing the machinery of justice. No, no, mistress. Because even though criminals and their lawyers twist and bud behind the law's technicalities, an able prosecutor can trip them up.

[Perry Mason]

Shall we talk legal philosophy at another time?

[District Attorney]

Indeed we will, Mr. Mason. Because I believe you and I represent two opposing views of the law. The righteous moral view and the sentimental, merciful view.

[Perry Mason]

In other words, you are a watchdog for the law. Yes. Personally, I would rather be a watchdog guarding innocent persons from a mistake.

[District Attorney]

The law doesn't make mistakes, Mr. Mason. Just as you made no mistake and saved yourself trouble by coming to me first. You couldn't get over to Ab Corpus from May Grant. He's charged with murder in the first degree.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

What?

[District Attorney]

You repeat, murder in the first degree, for which no veil is given.

[Perry Mason]

In other words, you believed Kitty DeCarlo's fantastic tale.

[District Attorney]

Mrs. Blank, as you choose to call her, Kitty DeCarlo is a poor, sinned.

[Perry Mason]

Against woman who was found sure of yourself, Mr. Rapp.

[District Attorney]

I have proof, Mr. Mason. Good and sufficient proof. Proof which is so convincing to me that I intend to last before the grand jury as soon as it can be arraigned.

[Perry Mason]

A.B.

[District Attorney]

I have.

[Perry Mason]

All right, I can't stop you. However, let me ask you this.

[District Attorney]

Go easy on the publicity.

[Perry Mason]

May Grant is not the only one who'll be hurt the child, Mr. Mason.

[District Attorney]

Let's understand this from the start. I don't intend to go easy on anything. It's my duty to see what you triumph, evil punished. I shall do everything my power to bring this about. And so you know just where I stand. I wish there were a punishment more devastating than electrocution so I could ask it for your client. And I'll tell you why. Because May Grant's crime is more terrible than murder. She not only took a life, she tried to steal a life. She tried to steal Captain De Carlo's child. She proclaimed the sacredness of motherhood. The machinery of justice is turning. I shall say, not that it is halted, but that it moves as quickly as possible against Mrs. Grant and get you as much publicity as quickly as possible. I shan't even answer that unless you like to Think of this as an answer. I believe in right. I believe in right triumphant. I believe evil is always punished. I shall see to it that evil in the form of May Grant is punished. And Mr. Mason. Now, I warn you, if you stand on the side of evil, you will be smashed. Not because I by myself in par, but because I, with right on my side, form an irresistible comb.

[Perry Mason]

I hope it works, Mr. Rapp.

[District Attorney]

Justice always works, Mr. Mason. And since I represent justice. Do I make myself clear?

[Perry Mason]

Perfectly. Now, before I thank you for this interview, the DA said no press releases would be made before 11:00.

[District Attorney]

The district attorney is a man of his word. Is what he set binding on you?

[Perry Mason]

Yes, and that's all I wanted to know. All right, Ella, that Gives us plenty of time to see May Grant before we go explain things to Phil. Let's go. A few moments later, in the lobby of Kitty de Carlos Hotel.

[Anna B. Hurley]

Hello, Kitty. Where have you been?

[District Attorney]

I've been reading the paper, waiting for.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

8 o'clock so I can get a drink. And I I.

[Anna B. Hurley]

From a pay station.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Yeah. Anna, I need a drink.

[Anna B. Hurley]

What happened when you talked to the district attorney?

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Well, you ought to see my hands. They're shaking like a loot.

[Anna B. Hurley]

They stop shaking if I played you the record of you confessing to the murder of Marcel.

[District Attorney]

Please.

[Perry Mason]

Please.

[Anna B. Hurley]

Well, then what happened?

[Kitty DiCarlo]

I. I talked to a guy named Frederick Afton. Impress him my witness did. I did just what you told me to do, Anna. And, well, it hit the sky up just right. He's a crusader. Believes in motherhood and that kind of stuff. He can maybe take Perry ne with.

[Anna B. Hurley]

Our help, he will. Now, you go on up to your room, Kitty. Stay there until you get a message about her dress. Then go downstairs to a payphone booth and phone me.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

But Anna gotta have a drink.

[Anna B. Hurley]

Have them send up a drink at 8 o'clock. Now go to your room while I phone Bill Grant.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

What?

[Anna B. Hurley]

I'm going to phone Mrs. Grant's husband. Anna's got something she wants to say to him.

[Perry Mason]

The app. Well, after talking to Frederick app. Perry Mason knows he's in a fight. But Perry doesn't know, can't know about Anna B. Hurley, his hidden opponent. And as for what Anna plans to do, she wants to talk to Bill Grant and well, be sure to join us on Monday. Foreign.

[Nicole Byer]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms. Liar. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals go wild. Like an untamed animal print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com. oh, beers, this has been your Wayfarer style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Kitty DiCarlo]

Wayfair. Every style, every home.