Sexton Blake, Detective 67-08-24 (01) Lillies for the Ladies

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Sexton Blake, Detective 67-08-24 (01) Lilies for the Ladies
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Duration: Approximately 29 minutes

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Introduction

Lilies for the Ladies marks the inaugural episode of the new Sexton Blake series, brought to life by Harold's Old Time Radio. This episode, scripted by Donald Stewart and produced by Alastair Scott Johnst, transports listeners to the Golden Age of Radio, immersing them in a classic detective narrative filled with intrigue, suspense, and sharp wit.

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Setting the Scene

The story unfolds in the bustling atmosphere of London, where a series of murders has shaken the elite circles. Wealthy, middle-aged women—Pamela Mortimer, Marigold Bradley, Edith Woodthorpe, and Beatrice Linfield—have all been strangled under suspicious circumstances. Their husbands, despite clear financial motives, possess unassailable alibis, leading to perplexing investigations.

William Franklin narrates at [00:51]:

"The history of crime detection has produced no more famous name than that of Sexton Blake."

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Introducing Sexton Blake and His Team

Sexton Blake, portrayed by William Franklin, is joined by his diligent assistant, David Gregory aka Tinker, and his perceptive secretary, Paula Dane, voiced by Hilda Schroeder. Together, they delve into the mystery surrounding the recent murders.

Sexton Blake discusses with his colleague Chuck Owith at [02:01]:

"Pamela Mortimer, Marigold Bradley, Edith Woodthorpe and Beatrice Linfield. All the same type, middle aged, rich, much married and all murdered."

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The Mystery Deepens

As Blake and his team examine the cases, they identify a troubling pattern: each victim's husband had a compelling financial motive but an unbreakable alibi. The mysterious connection between these murders suggests an organized and calculated scheme.

At [03:06], Sexton Blake contemplates the possibility:

"In the case of the four dead women, the husbands obviously didn't, if my supposition is correct."

The plot thickens when Henry Linfield, Beatrice Linfield's seventh husband, becomes a focal point. After attending a dinner in Cannes—where Beatrice was murdered—Linfield contacts Blake, appearing unusually agitated and fearful. This unexpected development hints at deeper undercurrents in the case.

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A Web of Deceit and the Samaritan Club

Investigations lead Blake and his team to the exclusive "Samaritan Club," run by the enigmatic Montague Glasspool. This high-end establishment, located on Hartford Street, emerges as a pivotal nexus in the unfolding mystery.

At [13:30], Blake instructs his assistant:

"The Samaritan Club. Paula's got some gin on it, but I could do with some more. A lot more."

The club's exclusivity and its association with the murdered husbands suggest a possible conspiracy. Blake's probing reveals that Glasspool may be orchestrating the murders to eliminate standing obstacles in his financial schemes.

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Confrontation and Revelation

Blake's meticulous investigation culminates in a tense confrontation with Montague Glasspool. Utilizing strategic deception, Blake exposes Glasspool's intricate plot to murder the wives, ensuring their husbands remain innocent bystanders with solid alibis.

During the climactic encounter at [22:21], Blake unveils the truth:

"It was your brilliant scheme, Glasspool. If Mrs. Bradley's husband kills Mrs. Mortimer while Edward Mortimer is provided with a perfect alibi, no suspicion can attach to Mortimer."

Glasspool, cornered and unable to refute the evidence, attempts to negotiate, but Blake remains resolute. The detective's sharp reasoning and unwavering determination dismantle the criminal enterprise, leading to the perpetrators' downfall.

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Notable Quotes and Moments

• Sexton Blake to Detective Chief Inspector Coutts at [09:05]:

  "No motives. Husbands with cast iron alibis. All very neat and slick."

• Paula Dane reveals key information at [18:33]:

  "Edward Mortimer, Charles Bradley and James Woodthorpe are all members of the Samaritan Club. And so was Henry Linfield."

• Final Confrontation at [22:21]:

  "It was your brilliant scheme, Glasspool..."

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Conclusion

Lilies for the Ladies masterfully weaves a tale of mystery and deduction, showcasing Sexton Blake's unparalleled investigative prowess. The episode not only captivates with its engaging plot and rich character dynamics but also pays homage to the timeless allure of classic detective stories. Listeners are left eagerly anticipating future adventures in the Sexton Blake series.

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Cast and Crew

• William Franklin as Sexton Blake
• Hilda Schroeder as Paula Dane
• Wilfred Carter as Detective Chief Inspector Coutts
• Norman Mitchell as Ginger
• Basil Jones as Montague Glasspool
• James Beck as Edward Mortimer
• Philip Ridgway – Scriptwriter
• Alastair Scott Johnst – Producer

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Production Notes

This episode successfully captures the essence of old-time radio drama, blending suspenseful storytelling with authentic period sounds. The impeccable voice acting and well-crafted script by Philip Ridgway ensure an immersive experience for both longtime aficionados and new listeners alike.

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Tune in next week as Sexton Blake continues to unravel more intricate mysteries, bringing justice to those in need with his sharp intellect and unwavering determination.

Transcript

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[William Franklin]

The history of crime detection has produced no more famous name than that of Sexton Blake. We present William Franklin of Sexton Blake with David Gregory as his assistant Tinker and Heather Chasen as his secretary, Paula Dane in a new series of case histories by Donald Stewart. And the first one is called Lilies for the Ladies.

[Chuck Owith]

Chuck Owith host. Governor. Can I have the toast please?

[Sexton Blake]

Eh, yes, of course. Here you are.

[Chuck Owith]

Thanks. What's so interesting in the paper? Beatrice Linfield not married again, surely?

[Sexton Blake]

No, she's dead. He was strangled in a flat in Cardiff street yesterday evening.

[Chuck Owith]

I bet her husband did it.

[Sexton Blake]

You'd lose. He was in Cannes. Give me some more coffee, will you?

[Chuck Owith]

He's the seventh husband, isn't he?

[Sexton Blake]

Something like that. The marriage wasn't a great success.

[Chuck Owith]

None of them were.

[Sexton Blake]

No.

[Beatrice Linfield]

She was unlucky.

[Sexton Blake]

Two too many dollars. Too used to her own, way too neurotic, very difficult to live with.

[Chuck Owith]

Why are you so interested, Captain?

[Sexton Blake]

Beatrice Lindfield makes the fourth in the last two years.

[Paula Dane]

The fourth?

[Sexton Blake]

Pamela Mortimer, Marigold Bradley, Edith Woodthorpe. All the same type, middle aged, rich, much married and all murdered. The only apparent motive in each case was the husband's. He got the cash, but like Linfield, had a cast iron alibi.

[Chuck Owith]

You're not suggesting that these four murders were organized?

[Sexton Blake]

I'm not suggesting anything. In each case I've mentioned the husband, the most likely was provided with an unshakable alibi. In this case, Henry Linfield was in Cannes attending a public dinner at the very time his wife was strangled.

[Chuck Owith]

What time was that?

[Sexton Blake]

Seven o' clock in the evening.

[Chuck Owith]

Mrs. Linfield was alone in the flat.

[Sexton Blake]

From six o' clock onwards. The murder mightn't have been discovered until the servants came back. But somebody thoughtfully rang up the police.

[Chuck Owith]

Rang up the police?

[Sexton Blake]

Yes. Just said that a woman was dead and gave the address. Somebody wanted to make sure that the discovery was made while Henry Linfield was still at that dinner in Cannes.

[Chuck Owith]

Well, that fits in with your idea, I'll admit, Governor, but. But surely it's all a bit way Out.

[Sexton Blake]

Men who marry these rich women are mostly after the money, Tinker.

[Chuck Owith]

But that doesn't mean they'd listen to a proposition to murder them. If anybody suggested it, he'd be taking a heck of a risk. Supposing the husband refused to play?

[Sexton Blake]

In the case of the four dead women, the husbands obviously didn't, if my supposition is correct.

[Chuck Owith]

You may be right, Governor, but I can't see it. How does this organization go about it? Wise remove the courtesy of dispatch. Excellent References terms moderate estimate free send for illustrated brochure.

[Sexton Blake]

It doesn't have to be quite as crude as that. A slightly cryptic advertisement in one of the dailies can produce that kind of service.

[Chuck Owith]

Well, these women weren't all strangled, weren't it?

[Sexton Blake]

Oh, no, that would have linked them a bit too obviously. I expect the police have spotted the possibility of a connection. And just at the moment we've got quite enough on our own plate without.

[Chuck Owith]

Mr. Saxon. Blake's residence. No, no, this is his assistant speaking. Who did you say? Well, if you hold on, I'll see. Henry Linfield wants to speak to your governor.

[Sexton Blake]

Henry Linfield? Where's he calling from?

[Chuck Owith]

Well, London Airport. He sounded a bit of a flap.

[Sexton Blake]

Give me the phone. Sexton Blake speaking. Yes, I know. I've just seen it in the paper. I see. When? Very well, I'll expect you. Yes, yes, goodbye.

[Chuck Owith]

What does he want?

[Sexton Blake]

Advice. He's coming straight here from the airport.

[Chuck Owith]

Before he sees the police.

[Sexton Blake]

I think that's rather the point. He's flown in on an earlier flight. They didn't expect him yet. Interesting, eh?

[Chuck Owith]

Did he sound a uniflap?

[Sexton Blake]

He sounded very tense. It looks as if we might have to make some extra room on that plate after all.

[Paula Dane]

Will you check this report, Mr. Blake? I've done three carbons.

[Sexton Blake]

Oh, thanks, Paula. I'll run through them. Have you been through to Chief Inspector Coots?

[Paula Dane]

I can't get him. He's not at the Yard.

[Sexton Blake]

Did you try the flat in Card history?

[Paula Dane]

Yes. He's not there either. Sergeant Bates doesn't know where he's gone.

[David Gregory]

Good old Coots.

[Chuck Owith]

I bet he's tackling the job with the energy of a bulldozer gone berserk.

[Sexton Blake]

Don't underestimate Coots, Tinker. He lacks imagination, but he's a very sound man.

[Paula Dane]

I'll try the art again.

[Sexton Blake]

Keep on trying, Paula.

[Chuck Owith]

Linfield hasn't turned up, has he? He's had loads of time to get here from the airport. It's over three hours since he rang.

[Sexton Blake]

Up the Police may have been waiting at the airport. In spite of that earlier flight, he'd have to deal with them first.

[Chuck Owith]

There he is now.

[Paula Dane]

Will you see him right away?

[Sexton Blake]

Yes. Shoot him in.

[Chuck Owith]

Getting impatient, isn't he?

[Paula Dane]

Good morning.

[Iris Carr]

Can you tell me if Mr. Linsfield is here?

[Chuck Owith]

Who's that?

[Paula Dane]

I believe Mr. Blake is expecting him. He isn't here yet. Would you like to see Mr. Blake?

[Iris Carr]

Yes. Yes, I would, please.

[Paula Dane]

What name shall I say?

[Iris Carr]

Carr. Iris Carr.

[Paula Dane]

Well, if you'll just wait in my office, I'll see if Mr. Blake can see you. Did you hear that, Mr. Blake?

[Sexton Blake]

Yes. Bring her in, Paula.

[Chuck Owith]

What's she like?

[Paula Dane]

Young, smartly dressed, very pretty.

[Chuck Owith]

I wonder what she wants.

[Sexton Blake]

Governor Henry Linfield, apparently.

[Paula Dane]

Mr. Blake will see you.

[Iris Carr]

Oh, thank you, Ms. Carr.

[Paula Dane]

Mr. Blake.

[Sexton Blake]

Sit down, Ms. Carr. You expected to find Mr. Linfield here?

[Iris Carr]

Yes. He told me he was coming to see you when he phoned me.

[Sexton Blake]

He phoned this morning?

[Iris Carr]

Yes, early just after eight from London Airport. He said he was calling in to see me at the flat on his way here. When he didn't turn up, I thought I'd come round here and see what had happened. I was getting worried.

[Sexton Blake]

Why?

[Iris Carr]

Well, you know about his wife.

[Sexton Blake]

Did you know her, Miss Carr?

[Iris Carr]

No. No, I didn't. It was a terrible shock when I heard that you.

[Sexton Blake]

You heard? You didn't read about it in the newspaper?

[Iris Carr]

No. Harry. Mr. Linfield told me when he rang up this morning.

[Sexton Blake]

Nice. Well, I can understand it being a shock, but why were you worried? Did you think that Mr. Linfield had anything to do with it?

[Iris Carr]

No, of course not. How could he? He was in Cannes.

[Sexton Blake]

So why were you worried? Because he didn't turn up at your flat.

[Iris Carr]

Well, yes, I suppose that was it. What can have happened to him? Where is he?

[Sexton Blake]

Probably helping the police with their inquiries. Do you know why he was coming to see me?

[Iris Carr]

No, he didn't.

[Sexton Blake]

Tell me. Did he sound at all agitated when he phoned you?

[Iris Carr]

Yes, very. I thought he was scared.

[Sexton Blake]

Do you know of any reason why he should be?

[Iris Carr]

No, but that's how he sounded. Afraid.

[Sexton Blake]

Excuse me. Yes, Paula?

[Paula Dane]

I've got Chief Inspector Coutts on the line now.

[Sexton Blake]

Put him through, will you? Blake here. Coutts. We've been trying to get you. Yes, I know. What? Where was this? I see. Where are you now? The Yard. Good. Do you mind if I come and see you? Yes. I'll explain then. Well, it might. No. So long, then. With you soon.

[Chuck Owith]

Paula.

[Paula Dane]

Yes, Mr. Blake.

[Sexton Blake]

I'm sending Miss Carr along to your office. Will you look after her? Give her some coffee? You know the way to my secretary's office. Ms. Carr. Tinker and I have to go out. But I want you to stay here till we get back. We shan't be long.

[Iris Carr]

But supposing, Mr. Lynnfield.

[Sexton Blake]

Just leave everything to my secretary.

[Iris Carr]

Oh, very well.

[Chuck Owith]

What was all that then, Adolph?

[Sexton Blake]

Governor, I didn't want to say anything in front of the girl. Henry Linfield won't be coming. He's dead.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Dead?

[Sexton Blake]

Stabbed to death in a public call box at London Air.

[David Gregory]

That's all, Blake.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

A man went to make a call, found Enfield huddled on the floor of the call box. Gave the alarm to the airport police. They told our man who'd gone to meet the plane. He phoned me.

[Sexton Blake]

You saw the body?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Straight away. Heard you'd been trying to get me when I got back.

[Sexton Blake]

What time Was he found?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

20 minutes past 8 this morning. I was at Clarger Street. He was stabbed in the back. Died almost at once, but not quite. Scrolled the word Sam in the dust.

[Sexton Blake]

Sam mean anything to you? No. Linfield phoned me to ask if he could see me. Conversation was brief and to the point. He gave no information.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Look here, Blake. How do you come into this? You say Linfield phoned you?

[Sexton Blake]

Yes, but I don't know why he wanted to see me.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Perhaps he knew who killed his wife. Damn queer business.

[Sexton Blake]

Like Pamela Mortimer, Marigold Bradley and Edith woods off, eh?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Funny you should say that. Been thinking the same.

[Sexton Blake]

No motives. Husbands with cast iron alibis. All very neat and slick. Coots too neat and slick.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Agreed. Husbands the only ones to benefit. But none of them within miles of the victims. Witnesses to prove it.

[Sexton Blake]

Extremely well organized, eh?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Now what are you getting at, Blake? Who'd be fool enough to commit murder to benefit? Somebody else.

[Sexton Blake]

Someone who was getting a large slice of the profit.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Oh, come now. Might be possible in one case, but not in four. Can you see anybody saying to a chap, how much will you pay me if I bump off your wife so that you come into the money?

[Sexton Blake]

Hmm. Not very feasible, is it?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I'd say it was rubbish. Nobody'd stick their neck out that far.

[Sexton Blake]

It mightn't have been done like that.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Any idea how it could have been done?

[Sexton Blake]

Somebody was afraid that Linfield might tell us.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Such as? Sam.

[Sexton Blake]

I suppose you're checking up to see if he knew anyone named Sam.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Got it in hand. Checking up the servants too. Think that? All right, but gotta make sure.

[Sexton Blake]

By the way, how did the murderer get into the flat?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Mrs. Linfield must have let him in. No sign of a forced entry or.

[Sexton Blake]

He had a key. Where was she when she was killed?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Well, the telly was on. Suppose she must have been watching it. Didn't put up much of a fight. Half tight, if you ask me. Reeked of gin. Chief Inspector Coutts. Oh, yes, sir. Now. Very good, sir. They see want win VIP. Mrs. Linfield was American citizen before her marriage to Linfield. Hamburger heiress. Dollars galore.

[Sexton Blake]

Well, I'll be off. Oh, just one thing. I'd like the official files on those other women.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Well, I wasn't on those cases, Blake, but I'll have them sent round.

[Sexton Blake]

Thanks.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

If you turn anything up, I'll let you know.

[Sexton Blake]

Goodbye for now. Don't let the commissioner get you down.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I won't.

[Iris Carr]

I'm all right now, Mr. Bates.

[Sexton Blake]

Sure?

[Iris Carr]

Quite sure. Sorry I was so silly.

[Sexton Blake]

Do you mind if I ask you.

[Iris Carr]

Some questions about Harry?

[Sexton Blake]

How long have you been friends?

[Iris Carr]

About 18 months. I used to model for Madison LaRoche. Mrs. Linfield bought a lot of her dresses there. And Harry came with her sometimes. That's how I met him.

[Sexton Blake]

I see.

[Iris Carr]

He was very unhappy. Mrs. Linfield wasn't a nice woman. She drank quite a lot. She used to have fits of temper and rave at him.

[Sexton Blake]

So he spent as much time as he could with you?

[Iris Carr]

Yes.

[Sexton Blake]

Mrs. Linfield had no idea?

[Iris Carr]

No.

[Sexton Blake]

Did he talk to you about his friends, people he knew?

[Iris Carr]

Sometimes. He had to meet a lot of people. Mrs. Linfield entertained a good bit, you see.

[Sexton Blake]

Did he ever mention anyone named.

[Iris Carr]

No, I don't think so. I'm sure he didn't.

[Sexton Blake]

Well, thank you, Miss Carr. Now you'd better go home. I'll get Tinker, my assistant, to drive you there.

[Iris Carr]

Please don't bother, Mr. Blake. I can get a taxi. I feel quite all right now.

[Sexton Blake]

Please. I kept you here. The least I can do is to make sure that you get home safely. Tinker.

[Chuck Owith]

Coming, Governor.

[Sexton Blake]

One last question before you go, Miss Carr. Have you any idea who arranged this trip to Cannes? Was it Mr. Linfield's wife, by any chance?

[Iris Carr]

No, it wasn't Mrs. Linfield. I believe it had something to do with the Samaritan Club.

[Sexton Blake]

What did you. Just a minute, Tinker. Did you say the Samaritan Club, Miss Carr?

[Iris Carr]

Yes?

[Sexton Blake]

What is the Samaritan Club?

[Iris Carr]

I don't really know. Harry mentioned it once, but I don't know anything about it.

[Sexton Blake]

Thank you, Miss Carr, I. Tinker, take Miss Carr home to her flat, will you?

[Chuck Owith]

What pleasure.

[Iris Carr]

You've been very kind, Mr. Blake.

[Sexton Blake]

Oh, nonsense. Look after yourself and don't worry too much. Ask Paula to come in, Tinker, as you go out.

[Chuck Owith]

Okay, Governor. Come along, Miss Carr.

[Paula Dane]

You want me?

[Sexton Blake]

I want all the information you can get me about a place called the Samaritan Club.

[Paula Dane]

Paula, what sort of club is it?

[Sexton Blake]

I can't tell you. I know nothing about it except the name. But I believe Henry Linfield was starting to scroll the name in the dust on the floor of that call box and die before he could finish it.

[Chuck Owith]

Sorry I've been so long, Governor. Hope you didn't want me for anything.

[Sexton Blake]

It would have been all the same if I had. What have you been up to?

[Chuck Owith]

Well, I made Iris have a meal. She hadn't eaten anything at all. Didn't even have any breakfast. I felt sorry for the kid.

[Sexton Blake]

It's remarkable how deeply you always sympathise with a pretty girl, Tinker. The more attractive she is, the deeper your sympathy.

[Chuck Owith]

We only talked about Henry Linfield, so don't get any ideas, Governor. She was nuts about him. She's a right little honey.

[Sexton Blake]

If you can detach your mind from beauty and distress for a moment, I've got a job for you.

[Chuck Owith]

What is it?

[Sexton Blake]

The Samaritan Club. Paula's got some gin on it, but I could do with some more. A lot more.

[Chuck Owith]

Where is this place?

[Sexton Blake]

In Hartford Street. It's run by a man with the unlikely name of Montague Glasspool. It's a membership club. Very exclusive from what I can gather. And the membership is limited.

[Chuck Owith]

Lynfield was a member. Was he?

[Sexton Blake]

I'm pretty sure of it. Extremely expensive.

[Chuck Owith]

Iris says that Lynfield never had any money. His wife kept him short of cash. She paid all the bills, but. But was mean with the spending money.

[Sexton Blake]

That's interesting. Go along and see what you can find out about this place. Pick up all the gossip you can. I doubt if you'll get any information from the people connected with the club. But people in the immediate neighborhood may talk.

[Chuck Owith]

I'll do my best, Governor.

[Sexton Blake]

And take care, Tinker. Keep your eyes skinned. Henry Linfield didn't stab himself.

[Ginger]

I remember when all these your houses belonged to the gentry. Townhouses, they called them. Used to work as a boot boy at one of them, I did. Now look at them officers. And these here clubs and the gambling.

[Chuck Owith]

This Maradon Club looks a posh sort of place.

[Ginger]

What used to be Lord Larkin's place. Used to run errands for him, I did. Had a nifty little piece for a housemaid, he did. Cool.

[Chuck Owith]

And now you work For Montague. Glass Pool, eh?

[Ginger]

That's right cool. What a difference. Thinks he's class, but he ain't. Wouldn't have got near Hartford street in the old days. Well, here's luck. Cheers.

[David Gregory]

Glass.

[Chuck Owith]

Paul lives in the club, doesn't he?

[Ginger]

He's got a flat on the top floor where the servants used to sleep. That little housemaid I was telling you about, she slept in the room he uses as a bathroom. Used to call me Ginger, she did. Cause I'm here. I ain't got none now.

[Chuck Owith]

You know most of the members, I suppose.

[Ginger]

Oh, I know them all. There ain't a lot you know. His nibs is a bit choosy. Well, he's got to be, ain't he? I mean, no good if they're short on the sausage and mash.

[Chuck Owith]

Lose a lot of money, do they?

[Ginger]

Sometimes, but sometimes they wins a packet.

[Chuck Owith]

Do you ever have any trouble? Dub checks or anything like that?

[Ginger]

Oh, we don't have that sort hand picked. Our nemesis. Very strict as nibsis. You'll be surprised at the number of applications what gets turned down.

[Chuck Owith]

Did you know a chap named Linfield? Henry Linfield?

[Ginger]

That was the bloke whose wife got bumped over here. How did you know he was a member?

[Chuck Owith]

It was in the papers, wasn't it?

[Ginger]

What's your game, eh? Asking all these here questions?

[Chuck Owith]

Just a matter of interest.

[Ginger]

You get yourself interested in something else. See, I ain't supposed to talk about our members. Not to no one, I ain't.

[Sexton Blake]

No.

[Chuck Owith]

Sorry. Didn't mean to speak out of turn. If I was a bit nosy, it was because I was wondering if there was any chance of a job.

[Ginger]

But it's the Mahadin. Not a ruddy hope. Same notice was there when it opened.

[Chuck Owith]

Still, I suppose there wouldn't be any harm in me seeing Mr. G.L. and asking.

[Ginger]

You'll be lucky. Like blinking royalty. As Nibsis, you won't see no one. Well, I must be off.

[Chuck Owith]

Oh, have another pint before you go.

[Ginger]

No, I ain't got no time. Got to change into my uniform, see. Take me five minutes to get to the club, much as my job's worth to be late.

[David Gregory]

I was in the saloon bar near the glass partition. Couldn't help overhearing your conversation with Ginger, so I thought I'd come round. You seem to be very interested in the Samaritan Club.

[Chuck Owith]

Any law against being interested?

[David Gregory]

None, as long as it doesn't become extreme. Tell me, why are you interested?

[Chuck Owith]

That's my business.

[David Gregory]

And mine. Let me introduce Myself, I'm Montague Glasspool. I don't know who you are or what you think you're after. Good morning. You. I'm allergic to snoopers. Good evening.

[Sexton Blake]

About Henry Linfield. That made him suspicious. Tinker.

[Chuck Owith]

I gotta kick myself for that. Old Ginger spotted it and went all cagey.

[Sexton Blake]

It was a mistake. There'd be nothing to connect Linfield with the Samaritan Cub. What's this man Glasspool like to look at?

[Chuck Owith]

Lefty brute, but a bit flabby. Large tummy and a nose to match. Veneer polish, but not very deep. Ginger subscription was bang on. Hopefully old boys sake. Glasspool didn't hear that bit.

[Sexton Blake]

He's the doorman of the club, isn't he?

[Chuck Owith]

Yeah. He must be over 70. I made several inquiries before I got the ginger. The Samaritan seems very respectable. Very expensive and very exclusive. Gambling's the chief attraction. But there's a restaurant and a bar. For the use of members, of course.

[Sexton Blake]

Any women members?

[Chuck Owith]

No. Gents only. Not very helpful, eh?

[Sexton Blake]

I don't know. I've got an idea niggling at the back of my mind. But even if I'm right, it's going to be very difficult to prove.

[Chuck Owith]

Well, let's hear it, Governor.

[Sexton Blake]

Not yet, Tinker.

[Paula Dane]

Oh, thank goodness that's over.

[Sexton Blake]

Oh, didn't you have a good time, Paula?

[Paula Dane]

Good time. Give me strength.

[Chuck Owith]

Where have you been?

[Sexton Blake]

You've been having dinner with Percival Falconbridge Fuchs. Two small Fs. He knows everybody who's anybody in the West End and exists like one of the lilies of the field.

[Paula Dane]

I'm glad to say that the evening cost you £20. And the price of the dinner.

[Sexton Blake]

I hope you had a good one.

[Paula Dane]

Considering I was paying the bill. I made certain of that.

[Chuck Owith]

You look charming, Paula. Quite a dish.

[Paula Dane]

Well, it didn't stir any response in the breast of that. That tadpole.

[Sexton Blake]

The only thing that stirs any response in the breast of Mr. Falconbridge Fuchs is the welfare of Mr. Falconbridge Fooks. Did you get anything?

[Paula Dane]

Yes, I think so. Edward Mortimer, Charles Bradley and James Woodthorpe are all members of the Samaritan Club. And so was Henry Linfield. That's what you wanted to know, isn't it?

[Sexton Blake]

It is indeed. You've done extremely well, Paula.

[Paula Dane]

At the expense of the most boring evening I've ever spent.

[Sexton Blake]

I should have thought you would have found Percival Falconbridge Fuchs a charming companion. His manners are impeccable.

[Paula Dane]

A mentally retarded Prince Charming. Can I go home now? I'm exhausted.

[Sexton Blake]

Yes, Paula. And thanks very much.

[Paula Dane]

Oh, don't worry. I shall charge you overtime. Good night. See you both in the morning.

[Chuck Owith]

Is this chap as bad as Paula makes out?

[Sexton Blake]

On the whole, yes. But he gets around. Knows everybody. Goes everywhere at someone else's expense. I've used him before, but his information's reliable.

[Chuck Owith]

So all the husbands of the dead women were members of the Samaritan Club.

[Sexton Blake]

Significant, eh?

[Chuck Owith]

Meaning that Montague Glasspool is the cat behind a murders?

[Sexton Blake]

In a way, yes. It's not really quite as easy as that.

[Chuck Owith]

I wouldn't call any of it easy.

[Sexton Blake]

But I suppose you know best. That's just the trouble. I don't. I wish I did.

[Chuck Owith]

Well, anyway, what do we do next?

[Sexton Blake]

You can work this one out if you like. Take five from three.

[Chuck Owith]

You can't take five from three, Governor.

[Sexton Blake]

Annoying, isn't it? Well, I'm going to bed. Tomorrow looks like being quite a day.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Well, I got most of the dope you wanted, Blake. Took a bit of doing in the time.

[Sexton Blake]

Thanks, Coote. It needed to be done officially or we could have handled it. What's the verdict on Glass Pool?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

What you'd expect. Been in all kinds of deals. Some paid off, some didn't. No record. Never been in trouble. One thing, though. He was on the verge of going bankrupt just after he opened the Samaritan Club.

[Sexton Blake]

Ah, that's what I'm interested in.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I thought you might be. He got out of it somehow. No information how there wouldn't be. Began to make money, loads of it. The bank? A bit cagey, disclosing information.

[Sexton Blake]

Got hold of a chap in the Inland Revenue. He did the trick. And the result?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Glass Pools.

[Sexton Blake]

Rolling in it.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Nearly a millionaire ties up, eh?

[Sexton Blake]

Quite tightly. Choose.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I can't do anything. No proof.

[Sexton Blake]

I might be able to supply that.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

And what are you going to do?

[Sexton Blake]

I'm going to the Samaritan Club. I want to have a little talk with Mr. Montague Glasspool.

[Ginger]

Good evening, sir. Only members is allowed in the club.

[Sexton Blake]

I have an appointment with Mr. Montague Glasspool. My name is Sexton Blake.

[Ginger]

Arbor. Tick, sir. I'll get onto the house phone.

[Sexton Blake]

Thank you.

[Ginger]

I've got a gentleman here, sir. Name of Sexton Blake. What? Says he's got an appointment. Yes, all right, sir. Will you go up, sir? Lifts just around that corner. Top floor, sir.

[Sexton Blake]

Thank you.

[Ginger]

Thank you, sir.

[David Gregory]

I don't know what this is all about. Would you better come in? Here we are. Now, I can spare you five minutes.

[Sexton Blake]

You'll spare me as long as I require, Mr. Glasspool.

[David Gregory]

What? I don't like your turn.

[Sexton Blake]

You'll like it even less as time goes on.

[David Gregory]

What the hell do you mean? I agreed to see you because I.

[Sexton Blake]

Told you that Linfield had talked and you were scared.

[Ginger]

Rubbish.

[David Gregory]

What have I got to be scared about? Who did he talk to and what about?

[Sexton Blake]

He had a girlfriend. Iris Carr. He talked to her.

[David Gregory]

When?

[Sexton Blake]

From London Airport, after he arrived back from Cannes.

[David Gregory]

But there wasn't time.

[Sexton Blake]

Go on, Glasspool. You were going to say there wasn't time before he died.

[David Gregory]

You're mad. Get onto my flat.

[Sexton Blake]

Where shall I go? To the police? They'd be interested in what Iris Carr told me. As neat a little murder setup as was ever planned.

[David Gregory]

I've got nothing to do with any murder setup.

[Sexton Blake]

Pamela Mortimer, Marigold Bradley, Edith Woodthorpe and Beatrice Linfield.

[David Gregory]

I didn't kill them. You can't prove anything against me.

[Sexton Blake]

It was your brilliant scheme, Glasspool. If Mrs. Bradley's husband kills Mrs. Mortimer while Edward Mortimer is provided with a perfect alibi, no suspicion can attach to Mortimer. Although he inherits his wife's fortune. Bradley has no motive. So he's safe. Or again, If Mortimer kills Mrs. Bradley and Bradley is supplied with an alibi. No, sufficient can touch him.

[David Gregory]

Ridiculous. Fantastic.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Do you think these men would commit.

[David Gregory]

Murder because I asked them?

[Sexton Blake]

Well, they had to, didn't they? They owed you so much money they had to dance when you called the tune. You threatened to tell their wives and they knew the result of that. They'd have been kicked out without a penny. Your way. They got a fortune in spite of the slice they had to pay you. And they got rid of a middle aged, probably nagging wife into the bargain.

[David Gregory]

You can't prove any of this.

[Sexton Blake]

No, I can. You forgot an Irish car. That's where the whole scheme came unstuck. Linfield. He was weak enough to agree to the murder of his wife. But unlike the rest of the precious bunch, he had some remnants of conscience. It started working in Cannes. What did he do? Ring you up and tell you he couldn't go through with it?

[David Gregory]

Now look here, if you know all this, why did you come to me instead of going to the police?

[Sexton Blake]

You're a rich man, Glasspool.

[David Gregory]

Does that mean what I think it means?

[Sexton Blake]

It depends on what you think it means.

[David Gregory]

I'm willing to do a deal. I'm not admitting anything, mind. And I don't want any trouble.

[Sexton Blake]

I'm sure you don't.

[David Gregory]

Then can't we come to an arrangement?

[Sexton Blake]

No, we can't.

[David Gregory]

What do you mean?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I Thought you said if there's any.

[Sexton Blake]

Dealing to be done, I prefer to do it with the real owner of the Samaritan Club.

[Beatrice Linfield]

I am the owner.

[Sexton Blake]

I don't think so. Soon after you open this place, you nearly went bankrupt. Somebody supplied you with a large sum of money. That is the person I'll deal with.

[Beatrice Linfield]

You could be sorry for that choice, Mr. Blake.

[Sexton Blake]

Ah, Mr. Mortimer. I was wondering when you were coming out. Don't you think that gun is a little melodramatic?

[Beatrice Linfield]

I like to be prepared. How did you know it was I who found the money for Monty?

[Sexton Blake]

Common sense. You hadn't enough money yourself. Your wife certainly wouldn't have supplied it. So she was the first victim of the murder scheme. Probably she'd found out that you'd been swindling her and was threatening to become very nasty about it. Right.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Very clever of you.

[Sexton Blake]

Who actually did the killing? Was it Bradley?

[Beatrice Linfield]

Does it matter? You hit on the right method when you explained the plan to Monty. Only it was my idea, not his.

[Sexton Blake]

Five murders and only three people to do them. Somebody must have worked overtime. Was it you, Mortimer?

[Beatrice Linfield]

Please yourself. It won't matter.

[Sexton Blake]

No, I suppose not. They'll sort it out at the trial.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Oh, there isn't going to be any trial. We were going to discuss a deal, remember?

[Sexton Blake]

I never discuss deals at the point of a gun. It gives the other side too much advantage.

[David Gregory]

Put the damn thing away, Mortimer. You couldn't use it even if you wanted to make too much noise.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Shall we continue with the deal? You haven't a great advantage, have you? No, not really. I mean, nothing that's been said here counts. It's only your word against ours, Iris Carr. I've an idea you're bluffing there, Blake. I doubt if Linfield would have poured out the whole story over the telephone, Particularly as he intended coming to see you. But as Monty said, we don't want a lot of trouble. Anything of that sort attaching to the Samaritan would be so bad for business.

[Sexton Blake]

Frighten off the mugs with rich wines, eh?

[Beatrice Linfield]

There'll be no more of that.

[Sexton Blake]

I see. You'll rely in future on the faked roulette wheel and stacked decks of cars.

[Beatrice Linfield]

You've forgotten the loaded dice.

[David Gregory]

Stop all this nonsense and let's get down to brass tacks. What do you want?

[Sexton Blake]

Make me an offer.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Well, since you haven't really a lot to sell. £10,000.

[Sexton Blake]

What are you trying to do, Protect your investors? I doubt if you'll be paying a dividend this year.

[Beatrice Linfield]

You've Absolutely no evidence. You know, a theory, even if it's correct, isn't proof.

[Sexton Blake]

Large sums of money have been paid over by Bradley and Woodthorpe for services rendered that can be traced.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Not a hope. This is a gambling club. They had very heavy losses.

[David Gregory]

We've got nothing on us. Nothing at all.

[Sexton Blake]

It could be unpleasant if the police started making inquiries.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Hence the reason for the £10,000.

[Sexton Blake]

Well, half a loaf, I suppose, is better than a limp handshake.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Get the money out of the safe, Monty.

[David Gregory]

Very good. There you are. 10 lots of a thousand antennas. Bit bulky.

[Sexton Blake]

Oh, don't worry, I bought a briefcase.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Just a little safeguard for us. I shall want you to sign a receipt in consideration for the sum of £10,000. I agree not to proceed further in the matter discussed between us. Write that out, will you, Monty?

[Sexton Blake]

What a nice legal mind you've got, mortimer.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Thank you, Mr. Blake. If you tried to pull a fast one on that little document, it wouldn't.

[Sexton Blake]

Look too good for you. Or you.

[Beatrice Linfield]

It doesn't mention the matter we discussed. But it does show that you accepted a bribe.

[Sexton Blake]

Discredit the witness, eh?

[David Gregory]

Very well. Is that what you want?

[Beatrice Linfield]

Fine. Just sign there, Mr. Blake, and the deal is completed.

[Sexton Blake]

Not quite, Mortimer. You need an independent witness to this, don't you? I could dispute that. It was my signature.

[Beatrice Linfield]

That's the point. Monty, ring down and ask Ginger to send Slade up. He'll do.

[David Gregory]

Send Slade up to my flat and hurry.

[Beatrice Linfield]

Prepare for a drink, Mr. Blake.

[Sexton Blake]

No, thank you.

[David Gregory]

Oh, that's Slade. I'll go and let him in.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I'm Detective Chief Inspector Coot.

[Sexton Blake]

Coming, Cootes.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I think you gave me the letter you left. Been waiting below.

[Chuck Owith]

That's right, Governor. My little Ginger. Play ball. I don't know what you're playing at, Blake, but it.

[Ginger]

It won't get you anywhere.

[Sexton Blake]

It's going to get you in court on a charge of murder.

[Ginger]

Rubbish.

[Sexton Blake]

You see, before I came here, I dictated a full statement of what I intended to say and how I expected you to react. Dated, timed and witnessed. Coutts has got that at Scotland Yard.

[Beatrice Linfield]

That's right.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Have a job to explain away that bribe. If there was no truth in Blake's.

[Sexton Blake]

Accusation, Bradley and Woodthorpe wouldn't stand up to a cross examination. When the murder plots exploded, they'll collapse.

[Chuck Owith]

I'll settle with you anyway.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

That'll keep Mortimer quiet for a bit. Hurt my knuckles.

[Sexton Blake]

Well done, Coots. But gospel's in a bad way. Go and find a doctor, Tinker, quickly.

[Chuck Owith]

Okay, Governor.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

I hope he survives long enough to make a statement. You took a risk.

[Sexton Blake]

And to play it off the cuff, hadn't you better get Mortimer away before he comes round? That was a beautiful ride. Cross Coots.

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

Bit of sheer luck, Blake. I'll phone for a police car.

[Sexton Blake]

What's this place called?

[Detective Chief Inspector Coutts]

The Samaritan Club.

[Sexton Blake]

Yes. Ironical, isn't it?

[William Franklin]

That story in our new Sexton Blake series was called Lilies for the Ladies and was written by Donald Stewart. William Franklin was Sexton Blake. David Gregory Tinker and Heather Chasen. Paula Iris Carr was played by Hilda Schroeder. Detective Chief Inspector Coutts by Wilfred Carter, Ginger Norman Mitchell, Montague Glasspool, Basil Jones and Edward Mortimer was played by James Beck. The series was devised for radio by Philip Ridgway and produced by Alastair Scott Johnst.

[Ginger]

It.