Perry Mason 52-03-11 (2216) The Squeaking Witness Chair

Summary

Perry Mason 52-03-11 (2216) The Squeaking Witness Chair

Released on June 10, 2025
Hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio

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Introduction to the Episode

"The Squeaking Witness Chair" immerses listeners in a classic Perry Mason courtroom drama, blending intricate character interactions with suspenseful plot developments. Set against the backdrop of the Golden Age of Radio, this episode captures the essence of Perry Mason's relentless pursuit of justice intertwined with personal stakes.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens immediately after the adjournment of the trial of State vs. May Grant. Perry Mason and his associate, Della, are en route to celebrate Dori Grant's sixth birthday at the Grant residence.

Notable Quote:

"It's early evening, some hours after the Trial of State vs May Grant adjourned as Perry Mason and Della drive towards the Grant home to help celebrate Dori's sixth birthday."
— Narrator [00:30]

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Character Introductions and Dynamics

The narrative shifts to an apartment on Baker Street, introducing Kitty DeCarlo, who resides under the supervision of Anna B. Hurley. The atmosphere becomes tense with the arrival of Mr. Frederick Apt, the determined prosecutor.

Notable Quote:

"Mr. Frederick Apt, prosecutor, as in the corridor outside Kitty's apartment, he stops to admire himself in the hall mirror, shifts the package he carries to his other arm, removes his hat, makes certain his hair is combed smoothly."
— Narrator [00:30]

This meticulous portrayal of Mr. Apt underscores his personality—meticulous, confident, and possibly concealing ulterior motives.

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Intricacies of the Package Exchange

Inside Kitty's apartment, a significant exchange occurs between Ms. Abbott (likely Kitty) and Mr. Apt. Mr. Apt presents a package containing seemingly innocuous items: ice cream, sherbet, cupcakes, and a bottle of sparkling burgundy.

Notable Quote:

"You see, I'm a most considerate man. My dear, you've behaved yourself beautifully. You deserve celebration, too."
— Mr. Apt [02:00]

However, the conversation carries an undercurrent of tension, suggesting that the package may hold more sinister implications related to the ongoing trial.

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The Birthday Party and the Mysterious Record

As Perry Mason and Della arrive, the birthday celebration is in full swing. Perry surprises Dori with a special record intended to bridge the absence of her mother.

Notable Quote:

"And, Dolly, I want you to know Mommy's thinking about you, that she loves you."
— Recorded Message [07:20]

The record reveals a heartfelt message from Dori's mother, adding emotional depth to the episode. However, the context hints at potential manipulation, especially considering Mr. Apt's involvement.

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Unveiling the Subpoena and Rising Tensions

A pivotal moment unfolds when Mr. Apt delivers a message from Mr. William Grant, stating that Dori Grant has been subpoenaed. This revelation connects directly to the trial against May Grant, indicating that Dori might be a critical witness.

Notable Quote:

"The child known as Dory Grant."
— Mr. Apt [09:40]

Perry Mason immediately discerns the malicious intent behind Mr. Apt's actions, suspecting that the prosecutor aims to exploit Dori to secure a conviction against May Grant, regardless of Dori's vulnerability.

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Climactic Insights and Future Directions

Mr. Mason reflects on Mr. Apt's unwavering determination to convict May Grant, even at the cost of involving an innocent child. This sets the stage for further legal battles and strategic maneuvers to protect Dori and uncover the truth.

Notable Quote:

"Mr. Apt is a most thoughtful man. A man who thinks about his duty and his ambitions, and who is letting absolutely nothing stand in the way of getting May Grant convicted for murder. Even if it means dragging an innocent, vulnerable little girl before a grim court of law."
— Narrator [09:58]

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Conclusion and Anticipation for the Next Episode

The episode concludes with heightened suspense, leaving listeners eager to witness Perry Mason's next moves in safeguarding Dori and ensuring justice prevails in the complex legal landscape surrounding May Grant's trial.

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Production Notes

• Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Title: Perry Mason 52-03-11 (2216) The Squeaking Witness Chair
• Release Date: June 10, 2025

This summary encapsulates the intricate plot and character dynamics of "The Squeaking Witness Chair," providing a comprehensive overview for both long-time fans and new listeners alike.

Transcript

[A]

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[B]

It's early evening, some hours after the Trial of State vs May Grant adjourned as Perry Mason and Della drive towards the Grant home to help celebrate Dori's sixth birthday. We'll join Perry and Della in a few moments. But first let's go to the apartment house on Baker street where Kitty DeCarlo has been living under the watchful eye of Anna B. Hurley. And let's join Mr. Frederick Apt, prosecutor, as in the corridor outside Kitty's apartment, he stops to admire himself in the hall mirror, shifts the package he carries to his other arm, removes his hat, makes certain his hair is combed smoothly. Then.

[C]

Just a second.

[D]

All right.

[C]

Huh?

[D]

Oh, Mr. F. Well, good evening, my dear. I'm not disturbing you?

[C]

Oh, no. I wasn't expecting company.

[D]

Ah. You look very nice.

[C]

Oh, you've seen these hostess pajamas before.

[D]

Indeed I have. Indeed I have.

[C]

Oh, please come in. I. I was just surprised to see you. I forgot my manner.

[D]

Oh, thanks.

[C]

I'll take your coat.

[D]

Thank you.

[C]

And that package.

[D]

Oh, no, I'll just put it here on the table.

[C]

All right.

[D]

Well, I'm glad you're alone, my dear.

[C]

It's nice. I mean, being with you.

[D]

Cozy.

[C]

Very cozy.

[D]

That's why I hate to. Oh, let's sit down, shall we? And, my dear, I think it's best if you sit beside me on the couch.

[C]

Ms. Abbott?

[D]

Why, yes. Have some. Well, some rather unpleasant news for you. No, it's nothing too important, but still disturbing.

[C]

What news?

[D]

Come, sit down, huh?

[C]

All right.

[D]

Here we are.

[C]

You comfortable?

[D]

Mm. Very comfortable. This is pleasant. Very, very pleasant.

[C]

Mm. Now, what did.

[D]

Sometimes I resent the affairs of the world. I really do pray well, those affairs intrude. Oh, but we have our duty, madam. Unpleasant. Our duty. We mustn't shirk it.

[C]

What are you trying to tell me.

[D]

Mr. Epps, about unpleasantness? I'm sorry I have to tell you this day of all days. This day I know where your thoughts have been all this day. My dear, you do when you're a little girl. What, you didn't think I'd forget her birthday? I never forget a date, my dear. Oh, I remember seeing it on the record.

[C]

I. Well, I've tried not to think of it. No, I try not to think of Dari at all.

[D]

Poor lady. Poor lady.

[C]

Always sweet of you to remember.

[D]

I'm a most considerate man. To some people, my dear, as you shall learn. For instance. You know what's in that package?

[C]

No.

[D]

Ice cream.

[C]

Ice cream?

[D]

Well, sherbet, actually. And little cupcakes.

[C]

How nice.

[D]

I like cupcakes. I thought we might have a quiet celebration.

[C]

That was thoughtful of you.

[D]

No, but that isn't all.

[C]

No?

[D]

No. I brought an extra special treat. We can have the sherbet and cupcakes as sort of a party for your daughter. Then a little later on, that is, if you aren't too tired. There's a bottle of sparkling burgundy in the package.

[C]

Wow.

[D]

You see? You see? You see? You see? You see? You see?

[C]

Ow.

[D]

You see?

[C]

Ow.

[D]

You see, I'm a most considerate man. My dear, you've behaved yourself beautifully. You deserve celebration, too.

[C]

Oh, you're a surprising guy, Mr. F. A thoughtful man.

[D]

Mr. Carlo, does my idea of a pleasant evening please you?

[C]

But just a second.

[D]

Yes?

[C]

What about that disturbing news?

[D]

Oh, no hurry. I know, but we'll make us some coffee first. Well, I'd like some coffee.

[C]

Okay. Maybe I better put that other stuff on ice.

[D]

No, it isn't necessary.

[C]

Well, the room's warm.

[D]

The ice cream, I had it packed.

[C]

Oh.

[D]

Oh, yes. Dry ice.

[C]

Oh.

[D]

Now, let's have some coffee and then shall we talk?

[C]

Oh, I say, this is the nicest birthday party I've ever had. Oh, we're glad, honey. It's the nicest presents. Oh, Mr. Mason.

[B]

I know. Dory, everything would be just perfect if your mommy were hidden.

[C]

Yes, that's it.

[B]

Well, I. I have a little surprise for you, Dory.

[C]

Oh, why? Maybe I better help Bill with the coffee. Yeah, I'll just take our cup. What's the surprise, Mr. Mason?

[B]

It's a record. A record that you can play on your phonograph.

[C]

You want more copy past?

[B]

Yes, please, Della. I'm giving the record to Dory now.

[C]

Yes, I'll be right back.

[B]

Where is your record player, Dorian?

[C]

Over there. Is it music, Mr. Mason?

[B]

You wait and see.

[C]

All right. Can I play it now?

[D]

Yes, of course.

[B]

It's yours.

[C]

Can I put it on myself?

[B]

Well, if you'll be extra, extra careful.

[C]

I will.

[B]

Oh, just a second. Dori.

[C]

Yes, Mr. Mason?

[B]

You understand, don't you? I mean, you understand why your mommy can't be here with.

[D]

With them.

[C]

Well, I know she can't, but you.

[B]

Understand she is thinking of you and wishing she were here with you.

[C]

I wish she were here, too, Mr. Mason.

[B]

Well, maybe we can almost have her here.

[C]

Like magic.

[B]

Something like magic. Now, you play the record, honey.

[E]

Hello, darling.

[C]

Mommy.

[E]

Happy birthday, darling.

[B]

Thank you.

[E]

Mommy wishes she could be with you, darling. But I know that Daddy and Mr. Mason have explained. And I know that you had the nicest party and the nicest presents.

[C]

Yes.

[E]

And that you and Mr. Mason and Della and Daddy had the best ice cream and cake. You didn't let Daddy eat too much, did you, dawn? Did you? You've got to take care of things.

[C]

I will.

[E]

Mommy And Daddy and Mr. Mason and Della, they'll take care of you.

[C]

Yes.

[E]

And, Dolly, I want you to know Mommy's thinking about you, that she loves you.

[C]

I love you.

[E]

Did you know that I was making some new clothing for Manuel Jr. I've been so very busy. I hadn't finished. But you'll get them tomorrow or the next day. Here. Now I got to say, nighty night, baby. And happy birthday. And let's sing it. Happy birthday to you Happy birthday to you Happy birthday, dear Dari Happy birthday to you Good night, darling.

[C]

Oh. Oh, Mommy. Are you going to see Mommy tonight, Mr. Mason?

[B]

Well, yes, for a minute. We're going back to the. We're going where she is and tell her about your party.

[C]

Will you take her a big kiss for me?

[D]

Oh, sure.

[C]

Come on, give me. Bend over so I can reach there. Why, Mr. Mason, do you mind if I play my record again?

[B]

No, you go right ahead.

[C]

What was the kiss for, Perry?

[B]

Take back to Maine?

[C]

Oh, you had a real nice idea, Mr. Mason. You old sentimentalist. Oh, now, Della, sending me out shopping while you had may make that record. I know you. But it was real considerate, Perry. Very thoughtful.

[B]

Ah, you say that to all your bosses.

[C]

I think Dory had a very good idea. Bend over, counselor.

[D]

You deserve a nice D. Saved by the bell.

[C]

Darn.

[D]

I'll get a bill. Mr. Grant?

[B]

Why, no, I.

[D]

This the Grant house? Right.

[B]

I checked the address. All right. This is the Grant address. I'm Perry Mason.

[D]

Perry Mason. Oh, our lawyer.

[B]

You got a message from Mr. Grant.

[D]

It'll do. You can take this message.

[B]

What?

[D]

From Mr. Apps. Special greeting from Mr. Apps. See this? This piece of paper says Mr. William Grant delivered the child known as Dory Grant to court in the morning. You want I should read the fine print, or. You got it?

[B]

I got it.

[D]

Okay.

[C]

Happy birthday.

[D]

Birthday party, huh? Yes.

[B]

The child known as Dory Grant.

[D]

Yeah. Well, happy birthday.

[C]

What was it, Perry?

[B]

Greetings from Mr. Apps. Greetings and a birthday present. He subpoenaed Dory.

[C]

Oh, Terry. That child. That poor baby.

[B]

You know what he said, Devin?

[C]

What?

[B]

The man said, happy birthday. All right, Della, let's go deliver Mr. Apps present. Yes. Mr. Apt is a most thoughtful man. A man who thinks about his duty and his ambitions, and who is letting absolutely nothing stand in the way of getting May Grant convicted for murder. Even if it means dragging an innocent, vulnerable little girl before a grim court of law. Well, join us tomorrow, won't you?

[A]

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