Studio One 47-05-06 (02) Topaz

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Studio One 47-05-06 (02) Topaz

Date: February 16, 2026
Source Material: "Topaz" by Marcel Pagnol (adapted by Ben Levy)

---

Episode Overview

This episode features a radio play adaptation of Marcel Pagnol’s "Topaz," a subtle comedy set in 1920s France. The story centers on Monsieur Albert Topaz, an honest and innocent schoolteacher whose unyielding integrity becomes challenged when he finds himself ensnared in the corrupt machinations of the city’s elite. Through sharp wit and satirical dialogue, "Topaz" explores themes of honesty, ambition, corruption, and personal transformation. The episode offers a comedic, bittersweet take on how virtue survives—or adapts—when confronted with vice.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Progression

1. Introduction to Monsieur Topaz and School Life (02:44–05:15)

• Topaz leads an ethics lesson, emphasizing the values of honesty and kindness.
  • Quote: "In order to succeed in life, we must be honest and kind, sir." (04:12, Madame Susie Courtois & Topaz)
• Headmaster informs Topaz his application for a degree in moral philosophy has been denied.

2. Meeting Madame Courtois and Changes in Fortune (05:16–12:00)

• Topaz tries to recruit Madame Courtois's nephew to his school; she deems the institution beneath his talents.
  • Quote (on the school): "The school seems to me to fall considerably below your standard, dear." (10:17, Madame Courtois)
• Madame Courtois shifts Topaz back into a tutor role with her nephew Gaston.

3. The Baroness' Complaint and Topaz’s Dismissal (12:23–17:09)

• Topaz stands by his honest student reports, defying pressure to alter grades.
• He’s accused of folly and is summarily fired, losing both his job and recommendation for a philosophy degree.
  • Quote: "You are relieved of your duties in this school. You are sacked, fired. Now, today." (14:47, Headmaster)

4. The Web of Corruption (17:09–20:49)

• Madame Courtois and Ferdy negotiate a financial scheme—she implies blackmail and exposes fraudulent municipal contracts.
  • Quote: "Unless I get 100,000 francs, I might easily be overcome by moral scruples." (17:39, Madame Courtois)
• Topaz, newly unemployed, is approached for a suspiciously lucrative business offer.

5. Becoming the "Dummy" and Moral Doubt (22:54–25:41)

• Topaz is offered directorship—essentially, to front a crooked municipal business for a high salary.
  • Quote: "What would I have to teach for that?" (23:36, Topaz) / "You would have to learn, monsieur, not teach." (23:38, Ferdy)
• He senses a ploy: "These street cleaning machines are just a cloak for doing me a charity." (25:21, Topaz)

6. Realization and Romantic Entanglement (26:37–33:15)

• After prodding by Roger, Topaz investigates and discovers the corruption is real.
• Topaz vows to expose the scheme but is entreated by Madame Courtois, who claims to be a victim rather than a conspirator.
  • Quote: "You are asking me to become the accomplice of a cheat...to abandon all my most cherished principles." (32:13, Topaz)
• He confesses his love for her: "Because you see. Forgive me for mentioning it, Madame. I love you, Topaz." (32:24, Topaz)

7. Life in Vice, Internal Struggle (34:15–38:57)

• Topaz, haunted by his new role’s moral ambiguities, confronts Madame Courtois.
• He’s wracked with guilt and anxiety over his crooked new life.
  • Quote: "Thousands of street cleaning machines come bearing down upon me and the giant sweeper’s whispering chorus: Topaz the crook, Topaz the crook." (35:33, Topaz)

8. Blackmail and Survival (39:22–44:57)

• A blackmailer threatens Topaz and Ferdy, but Ferdy's own knowledge and connections neutralize the threat.
  • Memorable Moment: Topaz is told to commit suicide to escape disgrace, but this is revealed to be an act of blackmail.
• Topaz receives at last his coveted moral philosophy degree—obtained through underhanded pressure, ironically.
  • Quote: "In this world, everything can be obtained by a little friendly pressure." (44:59, Ferdy)

9. Transformation and Power Shift (46:10–54:00)

• A year later, Topaz now runs the agency, confident and in command.
• He negotiates ruthlessly, seizing control from Ferdy and excluding him from profits.
  • Quote: "I have decided to keep this business to myself in future, and from now on, this office belongs to me." (51:11, Topaz)
• Madame Courtois realizes she is now cut out from the profit as well.

10. Resolution: Love, Irony & Poetic Justice (54:00–56:30)

• Topaz muses on success, image, and love. He proposes to Madame Courtois, who ultimately reciprocates.
  • Quote: "Susie, I love you. Won't you say something?... I should like you to say, I love you too, Topaz." (55:16–55:37)
  • And she replies: "I love you too, Topaz." (55:37, Madame Courtois)
• Their embrace closes the story with the echo of their earlier, now ironic, banter about romance.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the nature of honesty:
  "You are asking me to become the accomplice of a cheat. To abandon all my most cherished principles."
  — Monsieur Albert Topaz (32:13)

• On the corrupt world:
  "In this world, everything can be obtained by a little friendly pressure."
  — Ferdy (44:59)

• Transformation & irony:
  "With a little encouragement, I might easily become a positive volcano."
  — Monsieur Albert Topaz (44:42)

• Comic Understatement:
  "One degree stupider and he'd be a moron."
  — Ferdy, about Topaz (29:34)

• Climactic courtship:
  "I love you too, Topaz."
  — Madame Susie Courtois (55:37)

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Schoolroom and Ethics: 02:44–05:15
• Madame Courtois Evaluates Topaz and School: 09:52–10:24
• Topaz Fired for Honesty: 14:47–17:09
• Corruption Plot Unfolds: 17:09–20:49
• Topaz Offered Dummy Director Role: 22:54–25:41
• Topaz Discovers the Truth & Inner Conflict: 26:37–33:15
• Blackmail and Counter-blackmail: 39:22–44:57
• Topaz Takes Over the Agency: 49:02–54:00
• Emotional Resolution & Love Confession: 55:16–56:30

---

Tone & Style

The episode lights up with wry, eclectic humor and bittersweet social commentary. Topaz himself is open-hearted and naive, while the supporting cast spar, cajole, and ultimately succumb to their own ambitions. The dialogue is brisk, sly, and full of sardonic wit, bringing 1920s French cynicism and charm to life.

---

Conclusion

In this classic radio play, Topaz’s journey from unworldly schoolteacher to cunning businessman lampoons the mechanisms of power and corruption, suggesting that virtue, if not adaptable, is easily exiled—or else transmuted by its environment. Through sharp humor and poignant moments, "Topaz" provides an engaging critique of society's moral ambiguity—a theme as resonant today as it was in the era of Old Time Radio.

---

Transcript

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Warning. The following ZipRecruiter radio spot you are about to hear is going to be filled with F words.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

When you're hiring. We at ZipRecruiter know you can feel frustrated, forlorn, even, like your efforts are futile. And you can spend a fortune trying to find fabulous people only to get flooded with candidates who are just fine. Fortunately, ZipRecruiter figured out how to fix all that. And right now you can try ZipRecruiter for free at ZipRecruiter.com Zip with ZipRecruiter you can forget your frustrations because we find the right people for your roles fast, which is our absolute favorite F word. In fact, four out of five employers who post on ZipRecruiter get a quality candidate within the first day.

[Ferdy]

Fantastic.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

So whether you need to hire four, 40 or 400 people, get ready to meet first rate talent. Just go to ZipRecruiter.com Zip to try ZipRecruiter for free. Don't forget that's ZipRecruiter.com Zip finally, that ZipRecruiter.com Zip.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

This is Studio One at CBS. The Columbia Broadcasting System invites you to Studio One for the second broadcast in a new series of hour length versions for listening of celebrated stories, novels and plays. We introduce the director of Studio One, Fletcher Marle. Tonight, a comedy. Our plans for Studio One include many different kinds of drama derived from many different sources. But tonight we smile and present you with Topaz, a very remarkable gentleman indeed. His story was originally written in French nearly 20 years ago by Marcel Penol and comes to us in a translation by Ben Levy. But the atmosphere remains essentially French. Subtle, sardonic, often cynical, but with it all quite delicious. It need only be noted that Monsieur Topaz, as a teacher at a private school for boys in a large French city, is innocent of mind and heart and relentlessly honest. However, what happens to his innocence and honesty and to Monsieur Topaz himself when he falls in with a company of rogues? One of whom, of course, is a beautiful lady, remains to be heard. Tonight. From studio one, cbs presents topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Wednesday, March 27, 1928. That is tomorrow, boys. And tomorrow we shall have a general examination. And so to conclude this morning's class, we will have an oral review. I will give you some questions at random, beginning with history. The completion of the Sistine Chapel with frescoes by Michelangelo was an artistic high point of the Rena, Rena, Rena Renaissance. Quite correct, Master Blondet. Now let us cross the ocean. A basic American document concerning independence is Known as the Decla Decla. Come, boys.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Decla ration, sir?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Correct, Master Cordier. Declaration of Independence. Now we will turn to ethics. If a man is dishonest, his conscience will express disa. Disa.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Appointment, sir.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Not exactly. No approval, sir? Correct, Master Durang? Disapproval. So then, in order to succeed in life, we must be. We must be. On. On. Come now. Anybody on? Quite right. And what else, Master Tranche Bean? What else must one be? Honest and cur. Cur. Cunning, sir. Quiet. Quiet, boys. Attention and quiet. Master Blondet. One must be honest and cur. Curious, sir. No, Master Blondet. Zero for both of you. One must be honest and cur. Cur.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Honest and kind, sir.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Correct. Correct. Come out. The boy talking. Master Durand, is it you? No, sir, Master Duran. Think again. Honesty, boy, honesty. I wasn't, sir. Wasn't me. It wasn't I, boy. And you were talking. Ah, monsieur, you are foolish to mistake my kindness for weakness, my patience for blindness. I assure you, my friend, that the velvet glove conceals a hand of steel. You see my hand. If you resist it, it will break you. Yes. All right. Now, boys, let us consider the fortunes of Virt. Topaz. Topaz. Oh. Oh, good morning, Headmaster. I want a word with you before you go in to lunch. Very good, sir. About that new boy. Which new boy, Headmaster? The new boy you want to come here. Madame Courtois's nephew. Oh, him? Oh, he.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Ah, he. Do you think he is a desirable person to have at the school? Well, I. I think so. I seem to feel he had a certain mental agility. What I mean is, will he follow the complete courses? Oh, I think so. With extras? Well, I don't see why not. Fencing, modeling, drawing, Esperanto chorus. Singing and sunbathing? I believe so. At 120 francs a month. Oh, yes. The boy sounds to me a desirable member of the school. I will do what I can for him. Oh, thank you, sir. Tell the lady that each day lost is important to a child of his type. He had better come here at once. Well, I am expecting Madame Courtois after lunch, Headmaster. By the way, Topaz, here are your papers. What paper, sir? Your application for the degree of moral philosophy. Have I got it? Have I been awarded the degree, Headmaster? No, I'm afraid not. No. I see. Well, perhaps another year. Ah, yes. Perhaps, perhaps not. Who can say? Who can say? Yes?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Was old Mooch pleased with you this morning?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, now, Tammy, says one of his teachers. Surely you know that Mooch is never pleased. But he ought to have been, because I brought him a New pupil. And a very distinguished pupil too.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Have you indeed?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Where do you find him?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, it's a small boy to whom I give private lessons at his home. He lives with his aunt. Quite a young aunt, you know. She's coming to see the school this afternoon.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

What's her name?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Courtois. Susie Courtois.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Married?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

No, neither married, divorced, nor a widow.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

What is she then?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I think she's an orphan like me. But very wealthy. Oh, very wealthy. I wish you could see her in her home one day. Wonderful pictures and furniture. And brocades and cushions. Cushions on the floor, my friend, on the floor. And her stockings. You should see her stockings. Silk, woven, fine as a cobweb.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

She's obviously an actress.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Now, why should you think evil of someone you've never met? Actress? I guarantee she's a woman with no accomplishments whatever. Of the great world. Yes. I have seen a middle aged man at her house several times who wears the rosette of the Legion of Honor.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Oh, really?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes. A most distinguished looking man. His name is Castel Banat.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Sounds like a thief.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, he's not. Not at all. He's a member of the municipal council. No doubt a friend of her father's. But here is the curious thing. I don't know whether it's the surroundings or the scent she uses or what it is. I only know that every time I have spoken to her, I have never known what I have said at the.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Time or afterwards, either. Have you declared your passion?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I hinted at my passion rather than declared it.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Wasn't I a little backward?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, no, no, no, really. After all, she's a most elegant young lady. And I'm merely the tutor of her nephew. As a teacher yourself, you. You. You must realize it's a most trying situation.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Yes, true, true. However, you ought to be getting to work.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Getting to work?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Yes, Preparing the ground, for example, by a significant look. Whenever you meet her. You know, the eyes half shut, the piercing gaze.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

You think that's a good thing to do.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

It was irresistible. Then you approach her. Lower your voice. Then.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Go ahead. Go ahead. How? Quiet.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Force her to look into your eyes. And when she does see that, she reads there unthinkable things.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, should I really try that?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Then you have reached the moment to be firm.

[Ferdy]

Then you kiss her.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

A kiss?

[Ferdy]

On the mouth.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Have you. Have you ever done that?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Fifteen times. Several women.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, that's very interesting indeed.

[Ferdy]

Did you say she was coming here after lunch?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes. Yes. She said she was going to come and look around the school at the end of my lesson to little Gaston the other afternoon.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

She said that you better finish eating that custard then.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, yes, I should say it. Custard, is it? Why, yes, so it is.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Ah, Monsieur Topaz, there you are. Good afternoon.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Why, good afternoon, Madame Courtois. I was just coming along the hall.

[Ferdy]

To look for you.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Monsieur Larry Bouchon has been taking me around.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, it is good to see you, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I wanted to have a look at the school before seeing the head mercer. My dear Monsieur Topaz, it's not at all what I imagined it would be.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, dear, you. You mean you don't think it's a very nice school?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I think you are a very nice master. But the school seems to me to fall considerably below your standard, dear.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I take it you will not send your nephew here.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I should be loath to shut up any child here. I hope my decision will not do you any harm personally.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, no, no, madame. No harm really.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Now, as to Gaston, can you arrange to give him two hours a day at my house from now on?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Two hours? Well, unfortunately that is impossible, madame. My work here would not allow the time.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, very well. We shall have to be content with one hour as at present.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Ah, I have found you at last, Monsieur Topaz. Larry Bouchon told me you had a guest, monsieur. Will you do me the honor of presenting me? Oh, yes, yes, indeed. Madame Cunard, may I have the honor to present Monsieur Mouche, our headmaster. Enchanted, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

How do you do? Monsieur Topaz has perhaps mentioned to you an idea I had.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

He has indeed, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

At present it's still, of course, an idea, but I have a nephew, a dear little chap. Oh, do you know him?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, no, no. Monsieur Topaz has often mentioned him to me.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

At the suggestion of Monsieur Topaz, I thought of sending him here.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

It was a wise thought, madam.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I have not, however, quite made up my mind. The child is delicate and I want it to first to ask a doctor whether it would be safe to send him to a boarding school.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

If you will allow me to say so, we make a specialty here of sickly children. 9 out of 10 of my pupils have something the matter with them that's very interesting.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I'll let you know one way or another in a few days.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Whichever way you may decide, madame, I shall always be grateful to Monsieur Topaz, who has given me the opportunity of meeting you.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Goodbye, Monsieur Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Goodbye, madame. Good bye, Madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I shall expect you at five, Monsieur Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

At five. Madame. Topaz, we have another visitor this afternoon. May I introduce the Baroness Peter Vignol. Oh, how do you do? The Baroness wishes to inquire of your opinion on the work of her son, Agenor. Monsieur Topaz. Yes, yes, yes.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Monsieur Topaz. I have just received a report for the term on my son.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I have it here in my handbag.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

And frankly, I have not dared show it to his father. Here you are. Look.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

And, my dear Topaz, I must remind you that the Baroness has no less than three children in our school, not to mention three others not in our school. I consider myself under great personal obligation to her and should be extremely surprised if your report was not a mistake, dear. Well, I don't understand. I'm sure. These are certainly the marks I gave to the boy.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Let me see it again.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Look. French, zero.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Algebra, zero. History, zero.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Ethics, zero.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Look.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, Monsieur Topaz. But there is nothing to look at. They're all zero. I will show you my notebook. Listen to me, my friend. Anyone can make a mistake. Will you be good enough to look over this child's marks again? Certainly, certainly. It won't take a minute. I wonder, madame, will you be seeing your friend, the president of the Academy, again? Oh, I am seeing him on Wednesday. He is dining with me.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

He is a very old friend of.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

My husband's, you know. Yes, I know. I know. I believe also he admires my friend, Monsieur Topaz. But somehow, I don't know why he has hesitated to award him his degree in moral philosophy this year. Ah, really, I must find out about that. I am sure I shall discover it.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Was a mistake and that Monsieur Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Shall have his degree. You hear? Monsieur Topaz, the baroness promises you shall have your degree next year. Oh, well, that would be a great joy to me, madame. My degree in moral philosophy is my greatest ambition. I hope your prophecy is correct. Good. And now have you found your mistake? I assure you, no mistake is possible. Look, he's bottom in everything. He's bottom. Bottom, Bottom, bottom. Look here. Only the day before yesterday, another one. Mathematics. You see for yourself. Peter Vignol, bottom.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

And why exactly was my son bottom?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, why was he bottom?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

My son was bottom.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Because the administration of your class is dishonest. Dishonest.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, really?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

That's serious, dear. This is the first time my integrity has ever been questioned. It is impossible that I could ever.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Admit to my husband that his son could be got.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Madame, if you will allow me, I will try to explain it to you.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Well, I am listening, monsieur.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

You see, this child is a growing boy. True. He has reached an age when he oscillates between Two characteristic moods. Need we go into that? Oh, yes, yes, yes. It's quite a revelation, Headmaster. You see, at certain times he chatters and jingles coins in his pocket. At other times he giggles or gibbers without cause and throws stink bombs. That is what I call the active mood. The other mood is no less clear, a sort of depression. At those moments he looks at me with a kind of thick, half imbecile expression. He appears to be listening very attentively and his eyes are wide open. Actually, Madame, he sleeps.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

He sleeps?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

That's strange. You say he sleeps. If I ask him a question, suddenly he falls off his seat. He falls off his seat? Madame, I have met a lot of idiots, but never have I been so insulted. But, madame, a miserable teacher who dares to criticize a pita vignole. Monsieur Topaz, it is unbelievable. Half starved wretch scavenging for private lessons and academic degrees. Oh, but I spoke in all sincerity, dear Madame. Madame la Baronne, Monsieur Mouche. If this professional libeller stays here any longer, my three sons shall leave this term. And as to this slanderous, irresponsible report. There, there, there, gentlemen. Madame, don't pass. You are a fool. Oh, dear, I don't know what to say. Well, I have something to say. You announce frivolously the arrival of a new pupil who does not arrive. And now you have. You stupidly refuse to acknowledge a transparent mistake. You have falsified your paper. Oh, please, Headmaster. Say nothing more to me. Today you go. You are relieved of your duties in this school. You are sacked, fired. Now, today. And furthermore, I shall withdraw my recommendation for your degree of moral philosophy. Is that all, Edmaster? That is all. You may consider this final. Then. Then I. I should go. Yes, go, go. Yes, yes, I.

[Ferdy]

But, my dear Susie, you must think.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I'm made of money instead of talking like a municipal councillor. My friend, perhaps you'll give me a light for this cigarette.

[Ferdy]

A hundred thousand francs is not nonsense. I can't think what you do with all your money.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

My dear Ferdy, I have a great many expenses this month. I'm sending Gaston, my young nephew, to boarding school. Naturally, it has to be the best.

[Ferdy]

What's the matter with his having that tutor? Monsieur Topaz, I thought you were satisfied with him.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I am, but he can't spare enough time. He's coming for the last lesson today. But that's beside the point. Unless I get 100,000 francs, I might easily be overcome by moral scruples.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Would be awkward for you if I.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Were to tell the municipal council that for years you've been amassing a fortune by persuading them to accept agreements with a dummy contractor who's really yourself.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What's this?

[Ferdy]

You call Roger de Berville a dummy contractor? You know very well he exists. Oh, come now, my dear. Be reasonable. A hundred thousand, Frank. After all, honor among thieves.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You're wasting your time.

[Ferdy]

Well, if you must know, I simply haven't got it.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Where haven't got it? Why, the turnover on those street cleaning machines alone will amount to nearly a million francs.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Now, don't let's argue.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

The issue is really quite simple. Ferdy, yes or no?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes. Monsieur Roger de Beel is here, madame.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Roger?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Ask him to wait a moment, Morgan.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Very good, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why is Roger coming here?

[Ferdy]

I asked, didn't you?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Some new business?

[Ferdy]

No, it's about the street cleaning machines.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

But surely that's all settled.

[Ferdy]

Settled? But not yet signed, my dear.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why isn't it signed?

[Ferdy]

Oh, Roger hasn't been able to sign anything. He had an accident and his arm's been in a sling for a fortnight.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

All right, you can come in. But keep your eyes open. Roger, come in, will you?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Good afternoon, madame. Monsieur. How are you?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Very well, and you?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Much better, thank you.

[Ferdy]

Then your arm's all right again?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Almost. Good.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You can sign the paper.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I hope so.

[Ferdy]

Then we can go into the office immediately and complete this little formality. After you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

No, no, no, after you.

[Ferdy]

No, I assist, monsieur. I see you presently. Susie.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Monsieur Soaz is here, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

He would like to talk to you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

If it is convenient.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Ask him to come in, madame. Good afternoon, Monsieur Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Forgive me, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Won't you sit down?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

It's charming of you to let me bother you, but this morning you asked if I could give young Gaston two hours a day instead of one. If you still wish it, I am now able to do so.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, that would have been nice, but unfortunately I just had a letter from Gaston's father saying that he's coming tomorrow to take the child away with him.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What a shame. Oh, dear. I see. Well, madame, I suppose that's the end of our response association.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I'm terribly sorry, but I thought you said this morning that you hadn't the time.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, that was true this morning. But since then I have. I have acquired more leisure.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You mean the headmaster has reduced your hours of labor?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, madame. In point of fact, he has reduced them to zero.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Surely the headmaster doesn't pay you for doing nothing.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, no, no, madame. He has reduced my salary to the same proportion.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You mean he's dismissed you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Thank you, madame. That was the word I was feeling for.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Believe me, I'm really sorry. I don't think Monsieur Mouche knows a good man when he sees one.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, you're very kind, madame. Shall I give young Gaston one last lesson?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Yes, do, if you can be bothered with it. And in the meantime, if I run across anyone who's looking for a tutor, I'll make sure they get in touch with you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Thank you, madame. I shall give young Gaston a little dictation on the subject of farewells.

[Ferdy]

Susie. For two weeks, our dear friend de Berville here has been unable to use his arm and consequently unable to sign his name. And now today, his poor arm is much better.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

But you needn't labor the point, Ferdy. Roger's demanded more money. Right.

[Ferdy]

He's asking for 100,000, Frank.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

And I've been offered 25,000.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why are you asking for a hundred thousand, Roger, when up to now your demands have been so much more modest? On that school radiator business, you had 5%.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

True, I had 5%.

[Ferdy]

But if you will allow me to.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Say so, I was an ignoramus.

[Ferdy]

An Ignoramus who pocketed 45,000 francs while you pocketed 85,000. Am I the municipal council or you? Would the council ever have voted for radiators in the schools if it hadn't been for me?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Never.

[Ferdy]

Never in the world. And as for you, my friend, you didn't even know what radiators were. In your report you wrote gladiators twice.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I don't want to argue with you. 100,000 and I will sign.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Otherwise, I'm going.

[Ferdy]

Well, clear out then. And good riddance.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Monsieur, perhaps in your family one may clear out in mind. One dignifiedly takes one's leave. Good afternoon, madame.

[Ferdy]

Monsieur. Oh, insolent blackguard.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You should have been warned by that convenient bad arm of his.

[Ferdy]

Oh, I'm too simple.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I'm really too simple.

[Ferdy]

Other people's dirty tricks always surprise me.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You'll have to find someone else to act as your dummy. Now, what about Charles Forbear?

[Ferdy]

Forbear. Splendid and excellent fellow. No.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What?

[Ferdy]

I forgot.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

He's in prison.

[Ferdy]

What for? No, that's your business.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

How stupid. What we have to find is someone who does dishonest things. Honestly.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Exactly.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Purdy. If I found someone, how much would you give him?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I'd go to.

[Ferdy]

To 50,000 on the street cleaning machinery deal.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

And if he accepted less, would you give me the difference?

[Ferdy]

I don't see why not. Why have you someone in mind, yes.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Topaz.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Mr. Do.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

How do you do?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I've just been speaking with Monsieur Castell. I'll hear about you. And he's very anxious to do something for you, if he can.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

That's very kind. Interview.

[Ferdy]

Don't tallow, old fellow.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Tell me, are you particularly anxious to go on teaching?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Why, yes, of course, madame. That's my profession.

[Ferdy]

May I ask, how much could you earn teaching?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, anything up to 1200 francs a week. That's very amusing, monsieur. No, no, unfortunately, a month.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

The position which Monsieur Castel had had in mind for you would enable you to earn me more.

[Ferdy]

A fixed salary plus a small commission on each would average you 2000. A month, monsieur Torvalaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

A month? Thousand a month for me.

[Ferdy]

For you?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What would I have to teach for that?

[Ferdy]

You would have to learn, monsieur, not teach. Have any family?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Alas, no. I'm an Arthur. Splendid.

[Ferdy]

That is to say, of course, I'm very sorry, but it's fate, you know. And women. What about women?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Women, sir?

[Ferdy]

You have some wife or sweetheart?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, oh, no, no, monsieur. No wife, no, nor sweetheart.

[Ferdy]

Then with whom do you usually associate?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, with my school colleagues. Sometimes I see an old army fan. He's a waiter in a cafe now.

[Ferdy]

Well, I shall ask you to see as little as possible of those good people. And you will have to live here, of course.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Here.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Do you mind, Monsieur Topaz?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, no, madame. But what would I have to do?

[Ferdy]

Oh, my dear Topazo, if you will permit me so to address you, this is the situation. I am starting a new business agency and you will be director.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, but monsieur Director directs. Am I able to direct?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

And why not?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, outside of a classroom, I'm not good at anything.

[Ferdy]

Oh, nonsense, my friend. You can sign your name, I imagine.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Naturally. I don't say it's a good signature, but it is difficult to imitate.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Then we can make use of our friend Topaz straight away. Cleaning machine.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, yes, please do make use of me straight away. I don't say that I shall succeed at once. But I shall try, madame. I shall try very hard.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Good, good.

[Ferdy]

You sign this contract for the street cleaning machines while I sign a little check for you. One good signature deserves enough. There you are, Monsieur Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, thank you, monsieur. I took paid to the order of Albert Topaz the sum of 5,000 francs.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why?

[Ferdy]

A month's salary in advance. And your commission on the machines?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, madame, you take me for a fool, but believe me, I'm not as simple as all that.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why, what do you mean.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, it's clear even to me that this agency, these street cleaning machines, are just a cloak.

[Ferdy]

A cloak?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

A cloak for what?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

For doing me a charity.

[Ferdy]

Oh, my friend, you're wrong. I give you my word of honor. You can be of the greatest possible service to me.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Now, just sign here. Sign.

[Ferdy]

Topaz.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Director.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, it's too wonderful. Madame, it is with genuine gratitude and no small emotion that I herewith sign my name to this contract.

[Ferdy]

Excellent. Thank you. There's a simple way of showing your gratitude, my dear director. That is by never forgetting that in business the one golden quality is discretion.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Just as for a doctor. Yes, I shall not forget.

[Ferdy]

Good. Now, I've just time enough to register. Register these papers.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

If you don't mind waiting for me.

[Ferdy]

My dear director, we can have another talk.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Certainly. Certainly.

[Ferdy]

Susie, my dear, will you come along with me?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Of course.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Will you excuse me, monsieur?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Indeed, madame.

[Ferdy]

We won't be long.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, I'll just sit down here and catch my breath. Pardon, monsieur, but can you tell me.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

If Monsieur Castel is about?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Monsieur Castell?

[Ferdy]

Yes.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, well, I'm. I'm waiting for him myself. He'll be back quite soon, I think.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I take it, monsieur, that you are a friend of his.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I can't quite claim to be his friend yet. I'm merely his business partner.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Oh, since when?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, just a few minutes ago.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I see. I suppose you're mixed up in this.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Business of the street cleaning machines. Monsieur, in business, the golden rule is discretion. I do not know who you are.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

My name is Roger de Berville and I am well acquainted with the whole affair.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Is that so?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I know someone who'd actually have had your job if he'd been willing to work at sweatshop rates like you are doing.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Sweatshop rates. Monsieur, you do not understand at all.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Between ourselves, what's he paying you?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, that perhaps I can't tell you since it concerns only myself. 5,000 francs. You're joking. Joking? Yes. You'd think so, wouldn't you? Really?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Come, my friend. In business, sometimes it does pay to give the impression that one is a bit of an idiot. But aren't you rather overdoing it, monsieur?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Perhaps this conversation had better cease. I prefer not to be called an idiot by strangers. If Castell has let you take such.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

A serious risk for a mere 5000, you ought to be horse with Monsieur.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

You seem to be accusing Monsieur Castel of dishonesty.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I'm accusing him of taking advantage of his municipal position to secure contracts and of supplying the goods Himself at an outrageous profit under the COVID of a dummy agency.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, that. That isn't honest. In fact, it's the most disgraceful form of robbery. Exactly. Well, can you give me proofs of all these charges you've made?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

You can see for yourself. Go down the passage and enter the first room on the left.

[Ferdy]

There we go.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Find the desk. On the desk there are various papers. Open a long yellow envelope that you will find in the left hand corner of the desk. Near the wall.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes. And then open it and read.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

That's all.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Ah, very good. I'll do it at once. But if you have lied to me about Monsieur Castell, I shall throw you out of this house.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Perfectly fair. I'll wait for you.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, it's you, Roger.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, me back again, eh?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I see your arm is miraculously well. Where is Monsieur Topaz?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

If he is the befuddled looking gentleman who wasn't here when I arrived, then he's just stepped down the passage for a moment.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I see. And you?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

What are you doing here?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

I came back to make my peace with Castel.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Nice of you, but I'm sure he's forgotten it ever was a quarrel.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, as you know, I could worry.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Him with news items in the papers or anonymous letters which might give his enemies something to work on. But I assure you I won't.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I shall try so hard to believe you.

[Ferdy]

What, you again, Roger?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Yes, but I was just leaving. Madame. Monsieur.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I bid you au revoir.

[Ferdy]

Oh, I never really liked Roger. I'm glad to be rid of him. Where's your Topaz?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Probably wandered off to see my nephew.

[Ferdy]

Well, for goodness sake, don't lose him. He's a gift from heaven.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Do you like him?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Like him?

[Ferdy]

Oh, he's adorable. One degree stupider and he'd be a moron. Ah, there you are, my friend.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Madame Courtois. Yes, Monsieur? Do you know who Monsieur Castel is? Who I am? Do you know what I have just learned? Do you know, Madame, that this man who enjoys your confidence and whom you honor with your friendship, that this man is a dishonest man? I? Dishonest?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Monsieur Topaz, I don't think you know what you're saying.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, on the contrary, I know only too well what I'm saying. Monsieur Castel is a professional grafter. There is only one place for grafters and that is prison. I have the honor to bid you good day.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Where are you going?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

To the public prosecutor. Susie, do something.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Monsieur Topaz, Just a moment. Ferdy, will you leave us alone for a little while? I May be able to explain things to Monsieur Topaz?

[Ferdy]

Probably. I speak French, English, German and Spanish. But I doubt if I could make Monsieur Topaz understand me in any language. The language of the monkey house, of course.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I have not yet mastered Monsieur Topaz.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Please. Do you want to ruin me?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Ruin you? Well, whatever happens to him, how can it affect you?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

It will affect me.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Do you mean that you're. You're his accomplice?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Not his accomplice, Monsieur. His victim.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, great goodness.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Let me tell you everything.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, my dear. Yes, of course.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Castell knew me as a child. He was a kind of financial advisor to my family. When I was left alone in the world, I put my whole fortune in his charge. And he undertook to invest it for me.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

That rogue. Invest your money? Oh, goodness. It would have been better to lose your right hand.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Much better, I agree. But alas, when I was old enough to understand, then it was too late.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Why, it's never too late to mend.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You see, I've become a party to his intrigues. And who but you would believe that I didn't know what it was about?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, my dear. Yes, yes, of course.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Well, there's my whole miserable little story. Judge me if you will.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Who am I to judge? All the same, it wasn't exactly kind knowing what you did to invite me into the same predicament.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Did you understand why? Why I did it?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

No.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What did you?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You think a lonely woman does when she finds herself in the power of an unscrupulous brute? She looks for help, Topaz.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

And you chose me.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

From the first moment I saw you, I was struck by your forceful face. I thought I read in your eyes a promise. Promise of devotion. I felt if I only had a man like you near me, I should be guided, defended, perhaps even saved. Was I mistaken?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, no, no, Madame, of course you weren't mistaken. Then what must I do? Tell me.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

First of all, be silent. If you speak, I am ruined.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, I shall be done. Yes.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

And then you must stay near me.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I shall be at your elbow.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Also. You must regain the confidence of Castel. Prove your devotion to him until you find his weak spot. Then, without touching me, you can strike.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Madame, you are asking a great deal of me. More perhaps than you know. You see, you are asking me to become the accomplice of a cheat. To abandon all my most cherished principles.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You mean you don't think you can do it?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, yes, Yes, I can do it. I'm going to do it. I promise faithfully that I will do it. Because you see. Forgive me for mentioning it, Madame. I love you, Topaz. Have I offended you, Madame?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Please.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I know that I haven't known you long. I suppose it seems absurd, but really, I mean, I love you. You love me?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Yes. Don't talk like that. Don't look at me like that. You're a fool. You're a fool, Topaz. You're the biggest fool I've ever met. But don't go away. Just. Just be dumb. Stay at my Elbo.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

This is Studio one at CBS presenting as its second broadcast in a new series of hour length dramas, Topaz by Marcel Panol and Ben Levy. The story will resume after a pause for station identification. It's a cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. The second broadcast of Studio One, Columbia's new hour length dramatic series. We continue the story of Topaz.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Good afternoon, Monsieur Topaz. How are you?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

As well as ever, thank you, Madame Courtois.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Where are you dining tonight?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

In my room.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Alone?

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Alone, Madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Won't you dine with me?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

If you would excuse me, Madame, I would prefer to dine alone.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

There's something the matter, isn't there? Do tell me what it is.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Nothing, madame. I assure you, nothing.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Please don't fence with me. Surely you know I'm your friend. What's wrong?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Merely this, madame. I know everything. 42 days ago I came to this house. 23 days ago I realized that you were making a fool of me. On Friday 13th April, at seven in the evening, I went to your house for dinner. I was waiting in the little drawing room when I overheard a conversation that was for me very disagreeable about yourself. Monsieur Castel was saying, darling, why did you have to invite that prize ass to dinner? And you replied, because he is useful, and useful people should not be ignored.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Of course I did. Wasn't that the only way for me to answer Ferdy?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I was the prizer. But I didn't mind that so much as his use of the word darling.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You've heard him use that word to me before.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Never before.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Well, Topaz, it all goes to show once more how little is to be gained by listening at doors.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, but for you, I might still be happy in my own profession. I might even have achieved the height of my ambition, my degree in moral philosophy. But through you, I find myself in this nightmare of a situation.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You accepted the position with your eyes open.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, but I wake up at night screaming. While thousands of street cleaning machines come bearing down relentlessly upon me. And the giant sweeper's whispering chorus. Topaz, the crook Topaz the crook.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You brood too much, my friend. But, you know, I'm glad you've learned the truth. I knew you'd have to sometimes. And I used to wonder what you'd do.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

And now you. You've seen what I've done. I've got thinner. I've lost weight. I love you very much. Do you think? No.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Even if I wanted to, I shouldn't let myself love you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Why?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Because you're timid, weak, credulous. I don't want a man who has to be nursed and wheedled and hoodwinked through life. I want one who's strong enough to protect me. You see, I'm tired of fighting my own battles. I want someone who can fight them for me.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, well, if you really knew me, you wouldn't think I was so weak. I'm firmer than you think. I believe I shall tell you something I had intended to keep to myself. Something.

[Ferdy]

Good afternoon, my dear Topaz. Susie.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Hello, Freddy.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Good afternoon, Monsieur Topaz.

[Ferdy]

Monsieur is coming this afternoon, and what's more, you're going to deal with him yourself.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, is it a complicated business?

[Ferdy]

On the contrary, it is the first case you'll have to tackle on your own, and therefore it's extremely easy. One Monsieur is the proprietor of the Swiss Grille, that excellent restaurant in the Rue du Vous.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, yes.

[Ferdy]

Very well. Last year, our city sanitary department erected a garbage disposal unit right in front of the store. Now, as summer comes along and the sun gets hotter, there is an effect on the local atmospheric conditions in the immediate vicinity that is far from agreeable.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Is there?

[Ferdy]

In short, it makes the terrace of the Swiss Grille quite uninhabitable. The result is that Monsieur Rabisolet's clients stay away. And this afternoon, therefore, he has come to ask us to have the objectionable thing removed.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I should think so.

[Ferdy]

I told him I hadn't the time to see about it personally, but if he chose to speak to you, the unit would be removed. You will charge him 10,000 francs.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, but. Well, how can I make such a charge seem plausible?

[Ferdy]

You haven't got to make it seem plausible. All you've got to do is ask for it. Then I shall have the said nuisance dismantled and set up again opposite the Cafe Bertillon.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, but what will Monsieur Bertillon have to say about that?

[Ferdy]

Exactly the same thing as Monsieur Rabizolet. And the town is full of cafes. Amusing, isn't it?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, Monsieur.

[Ferdy]

Can't you laugh?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes. Monsieur Castell, is it absolutely essential that I should Receive Monsieur Rabizelay.

[Ferdy]

Quite essential. You've been here nearly two months now and it's high time you started taking an active part in things I want you to develop into my assistant as well as my dummy.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

You are very flattering, Monsieur.

[Ferdy]

Perhaps. Well, I'm going to leave you two. I've got work to do. Remember Topaz? 10,000 from Rebizoulet, madame.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I was just going to tell you something when Monsieur Castel came in. Something I've been hiding from you both.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

What have you been hiding from us, Topaz?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Certain, very clear evidence that I have acquired. Evidence which shows that the police are on our tracks. The police? Yes, it's true, Madame. Let me read this article to you. It's in this morning's edition of the Public Conscience. Headline, Scandal at the Town Hall. It has come to the notice of the Public Conscience that there has been very serious corruption practiced recently in connection with a certain municipal contract. The dummy in this disreputable business is a miserable school teacher who was lately dismissed from his post. At the proper time, the Public Conscience will publish all relevant details.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You haven't mentioned Mr. Ferdy?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

No, madame.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

But how do they know what we've been up to? Must have been Roger de Belde.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What does it matter?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I've got to tell Ferdy about this at once.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I have the pleasure, I think, of addressing Monsieur Topaz himself. Oh. How did you get into my office? That is of no consequence. I can perhaps do something for you. You will forgive me, Monsieur. I don't even know who you are. My name? That hardly matters. Let us come to the point. You will certainly have read in one of our most important morning papers a rather strongly worded item relating to certain business deals that you've been negotiating recently. You. You mean the one containing a reference to a miserable to a school teacher? That is the one, monsieur.

[Ferdy]

Yes.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, naturally I realized that the item was probably intended to refer to me. And it is true, is it not, that you have been supplying the town with elaborate street cleaning machines called Topaz Patent sweepers? Yes. And that in supplying these machines you are merely acting as a dummy. From Monsieur Castell? Yes. The editor of the Public Conscience has himself made some very searching inquiries into the business. And in tomorrow's issue he is proposing to reveal the whole case in detail to his readers. Oh, yes, Yes. I brought you a proof copy of his article. It seemed only fair. Oh, yes, yes. The Topaz scandal. Four columns of irrefutable proof. You see, by tomorrow morning, half a million copies of that paper will be on the streets. And with my photograph too, Mama. My photograph. And it's a bad photograph. Oh, yes, dreadful. Well, it's very kind of you, monsieur, to have warned me. Although I can't see that it will help me much. Goodbye, monsieur. Is that all you have to say to me? Well, what else can I say? Ah, perhaps I should have mentioned it before, but Monsieur Verniquel, the editor of the Public Conscience is a great personal friend of mine. There is perhaps. Perhaps some message you would like me to give him on your behalf. Yes. Yes, monsieur, there is. You tell him. Tell him that he is utterly and absolutely right. You tell him that what he proposes to do is no more than his duty. But, my dear young friend, is that all you propose to do about him? What else can I do? Ah, but my friend, think honor is the most precious of our possessions. And to retain it is worth any sacrifice. Don't you understand? There is only one thing left for you to do. Only one way out. Oh, dear. And if I did make that sacrifice, could you assure me that this article would never appear? I could give you my word of honor. Then the sacrifice shall be made. Good, Good. I congratulate you. I have the means at hand here in my drawer. Go tell your friend the editor that the thing shall soon be done. Ah, no, monsieur, not soon. It must be done now, while I'm on the spot. Now? At this moment? Why not? As you have the means at hand, surely the sooner the better. You mean here in front of you? Why, how else? Good gracious man, are you actually prepared to stand by and watch one of your fellow creatures take his own life? Take his life? What are you talking about? Yes, with the revolver from my drawer here.

[Ferdy]

Oh, Paz, what is all this? What's going on here?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, this gentleman appears to have discovered all about us. And is now insisting that I should kill myself in front of his eyes.

[Ferdy]

What are you talking about?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

It's not true. I wanted nothing of the kind. All I wanted.

[Ferdy]

All I wanted was.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

25,000 francs. What?

[Ferdy]

Be quiet, Topaz. Now, my ancient friend, tell me, does Verniquel know that I have anything to do with this business?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, but he told me to apply to Monsieur Topaz.

[Ferdy]

Very wise of him. This isn't the first time you've practiced blackmail, is it, my friend?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, come now. That isn't very polite. Do I work like an amateur? I started with the Panama Canal scandal. You did?

[Ferdy]

Oh, that was a fine piece of work.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

It was indeed. Deputies, ministers, all sorts of people, including the very best. I did business with nearly 40 of them and I never heard a single coarse word from start to finish. And when I tell you that in those days I was extremely.

[Ferdy]

Yes, yes, yes, listen to me now. I want to tell you a little story about Monsieur Verniquel.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes.

[Ferdy]

He was an apprentice in the town of Mellor in 1894.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, yes.

[Ferdy]

He ran away with his master's cash box and was eventually condemned by the High Court of Mellor to, what was it? 13 months imprisonment. Yes, and it would be rather trying for M. Vernicel if his present position in the. If these facts were dredged up and published with all the evidence which is in my position. Would it not, Monsieur?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes.

[Ferdy]

Then the matter settled.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

If I may say so, very well settled too. My congratulations, Monsieur Castell. I always admire the professional touch. Meanwhile, I can but withdraw gracefully. I agree. Good day, gentlemen. Good day.

[Ferdy]

There, that's that. Do you see, Topaz?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, yes, I see.

[Ferdy]

Whenever one of those turns up, just tell him to come back when I'm here.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes, I will, I will.

[Ferdy]

You know, Miss Topaz, Madame Tortoise, is of the opinion that your sensitive nature is unsuited to this delicate work. Personally, I would put it more bluntly. You have neither nerve, strength nor savoir faire. In short, you are jellyfish.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, but that is where you and Madame are both wrong. You mistake my repression for weakness. You may not believe it, but I have great possibilities. With a little encouragement, I might easily become a positive volcano.

[Ferdy]

Yes, and with that end in view, I have obtained for you something that will, I believe, realize your very limited ambition. Here, take it. Your degree in moral philosophy.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

My degree? But how in the world.

[Ferdy]

In this world, everything can be obtained by a little friendly pressure. The president of the Academy is an old friend of mine. I dropped in to see him last night. One thing led to another and I playfully reminded him of some useful indiscretions of which by the merest chance I had retained a written record. And after a very friendly chat, he sat down and wrote out your degree.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

My degree? For exceptional services. The said Albert Topaz is hereby endowed with the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

[Ferdy]

Oh, and that isn't all. I've got something else for you. At time Same. The same time.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What, what, what is it?

[Ferdy]

The rosette of the Legion of Honor.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

The rosette. Oh, let me see it. Give it to me. Albert Topaz, Doctor of Moral Philosophy, member of the Legion of Honor. Ah, that is something. Now I am someone. Now I can act when Monsieur Repe arrives. Show him right in. I'll deal.

[Ferdy]

Nearly four o' clock and I've been waiting here in his office since 2. And I told him I was coming. Oh, really, Susie. Since I gave him the Legion of Honor, this Topaz has become intolerable.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Certain if he's been detained somewhere, he might at least have telephoned. Just as a point of politeness to me.

[Ferdy]

I don't know about politeness to you, but I've come here by appointment to settle our monthly accounts. He probably doesn't even expect to see you here.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why not? Topaz has been working for us for over a year now. And I've been present at every single monthly settlement.

[Ferdy]

Well, it wasn't necessary for you to be here today. As a matter of fact, I've been on the point of asking you not to wait any longer for him.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, why?

[Ferdy]

Simply because I think it endures your dignity to be kept hanging around waiting for such a man. Or any man for that matter.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Dear Ferdy, you're always so thoughtful.

[Ferdy]

Well, how about it? Aren't you going?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

No, my dear.

[Ferdy]

Why not?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I'm not such a fool.

[Ferdy]

What do you mean?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Do you really think I don't know you by now? Ferdy, I know just exactly what's in your mind. You thought you could keep this Moroccan business a secret, didn't you? A secret from me?

[Ferdy]

What Morocco business?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, drop it, Ferdy. We've known each other too long.

[Ferdy]

I haven't the least idea what you're talking about.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, the least idea how important a big land concession in Morocco might be? Land full of marble quarries, red mines, Cork forest, isn't it?

[Ferdy]

That's the first I've heard about it. Where'd you get the idea from?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Be rather difficult not to get the idea seeing that an attache from the Colonial Office is here every morning. Do you imagine I haven't noticed that map over there on the wall with its elaborate blue pencil mark?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Map?

[Ferdy]

Map? What map?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, Ferdy, please.

[Ferdy]

Well, I swear to you I've never seen that map before. I don't know a thing about any Moroccan business.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Then why are you so anxious? I shouldn't be here when the accounts are being settled today.

[Ferdy]

All right, I'll tell you why. The fact is that Topaz has been getting so swollen headed lately that he's. That he's. Well, he's inclined to presume. Mind you, I'm not the kind of man who stupidly jealous of his own dignity. But the fact is that your presence does seem to lead him to Overreach himself if you stay. Well, you might go a bit too far in provoking me and I might be tempted to throw him out. After all, you know, it's your fault.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

My fault?

[Ferdy]

Yes. You taught him to eat.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

My dear, I've invited him to dinner a few times, that's all.

[Ferdy]

A few times? At least twice a week. It's the same old story. Like my mother's chimpanzee.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Your mother's chimpanzee, Freddie?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes.

[Ferdy]

When she brought him. When he first came to the house, he was half starved, miserable and scared to death. A more affectionate little creature I never saw in my life. Then they gave him Brazil nuts, peanuts, walnuts and coconuts. They stuffed him full of bananas. And what was the result?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I don't know, Freddie, what was the result?

[Ferdy]

He became as strong as a boxer and smashed the housemaid's joy.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Oh, I'm glad you're not a housemaid.

[Ferdy]

Oh, don't be irritating, I beg of you. You just wait, Monsieur Albert Topaz is going to hear something from me this time I can tell you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Where is he?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Patience. 30 Patience. Whatever is keeping him must be very interesting.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Monsieur Toaz is here at last. At last. Ah, hello, Susie. I'm sorry to kept you waiting, but I simply had to stay and watch my horse win the third race. Which he did in excellent style, by the way.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Congratulations.

[Ferdy]

Now look here.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Just a minute. I must speak to my secretary.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Yes, Monsieur Topaz. Will you take the evening mail now, Monsieur Topaz?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

No, later. Leave it with me. What appointments have I left for today?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

At 4:30, Monsieur Duhamel, Minister for the Colonies at 5:00'. Clock.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Transfer any other appointments to tomorrow. I'll see Mr. Duamel. That's important. You may sit down, Castell. Now, anything else, Mademoiselle? Your trainer telephoned and said he had.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Forgotten to ask you if you intend.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

To enter a horse at longchamp on the 17th. Ah, tell him yes, but scratch the entry for the English Derby. We're not quite ready for that yet.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Very good, monsieur.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

And telephone the national bank. Tell the manager I want to see him here tomorrow at 10 o'.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Clock.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Get my broker at 9 o'. Clock. I'm dining with Judge Lenoir. I should be at his house at 11:30 this evening. If anything of importance comes up, you can phone me there. I will look through my mail after I have seen the Minister for the Colonies. That's all.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Thank you, monsieur.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Now, what can I do for you? I regret that my time is limited.

[Ferdy]

I've come to settle the accounts for the month of September.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, yes. Won't that be rather dull for you, madame? I think you might prefer to read a magazine. There are lots over there on the table.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Thank you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Now, my friend. Figures.

[Ferdy]

Yes, let's deal with the figures first, and I shall have something to say to you afterwards.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Good, good. I shall be delighted to listen. Now, let me see. For the month of September, I owe you the sum of 65,347 francs. Agreed?

[Ferdy]

Yes, that's exactly what I make it.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

The Morocco business included.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes.

[Ferdy]

What is all this about Morocco?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Morocco? Oh, that's a personal matter.

[Ferdy]

What do you mean by personal?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I mean that it's none of your business.

[Ferdy]

Not my business, eh? What exactly do you mean by that?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Which of those very simple words do you find it hard to understand? Cigarette?

[Ferdy]

No. No.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Now, listen, Freddie, I want to tell you something. In the last six months, this agency, with my help, has brought you in a clear profit of a quarter of a million francs. Which proves that even if it were to cease operations today, you would have done very well after it.

[Ferdy]

And why should it cease operations today?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Because I have decided to keep this business to myself in future, and from now on, this office belongs to me. Any profits will be mine and mine alone. And if I should have to do business with you again, I shall no longer do it for a commission of 6%.

[Ferdy]

You mean that you propose to appropriate this agency entirely?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I do. The agency bears my name, the lease is my name, and I am legally in possession. But it would be.

[Ferdy]

It would be daylight robbery.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

In that case, perhaps you would like to appeal to the court.

[Ferdy]

Listen, you. I've met a good many scoundrels in my time, but never before have I come across one as blatant and unscrupulous.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

As you, my friend. I am quite unmoved by your flattery.

[Ferdy]

No, I shall. I know it any minute now, I shall burst.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

In the circumstances. Is that all you have to say, Freddie?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

In the circumstances, I'm afraid that's all he can say. Listen.

[Ferdy]

Look here, Alfred, old boy.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

My name is Albert.

[Ferdy]

Albert, I know very well you haven't meant any of this. I tell you what I'll do. I'll give you 10%.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I'm sorry. It wouldn't pay me. Besides, I've been watching you at work very closely for some time now. And frankly, I've been disappointed. You're a crook, I grant you, but in no sense. You. Your ideas lack vision, lack breadth. If I may say so, you will never have real imagination. Stick to your chief politics, Ferdy.

[Ferdy]

Susie.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What did I tell you?

[Ferdy]

My mother's chimpanzee all over again.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

No good appealing to me, Ferdy. I can't help you.

[Ferdy]

Topaz, you're a bandit.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I agree.

[Ferdy]

You are a B door.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Purdy, dear, even in vituperation, you're falling a little short of my expectations.

[Ferdy]

Oh, you shut up. I'm not at all sure that you're not his accomplice.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You know perfectly well I'm not.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Quietly.

[Ferdy]

I don't know anything of the kind. Though goodness knows I've made enough money for you in the last two years to at least for your loyalty.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You're a vulgar creature, aren't you, Floody?

[Ferdy]

Ho, ho.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Vulgar.

[Ferdy]

Am I vulgar or no? You'd be in a pretty mess without me.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

If you must shout, would you mind doing it in the outer office? I have work to do.

[Ferdy]

I'd like to remind you, my fine young lady, that when I first met you, you were wearing rabbit fur.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I haven't forgotten that.

[Ferdy]

And lisle stockings and I dare say, cotton underwear.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

No, never cotton.

[Ferdy]

And it was I, vulgar or no, that dragged you up from the gutter.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Monsieur. Monsieur. I cannot allow you to address a lady like that in my presence. Please leave my office.

[Ferdy]

Don't try riding the high horse with me, young man.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Do you hear me? Get out.

[Ferdy]

I've a good mind to break your neck.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Get out.

[Ferdy]

Yes, I will get out. Goodness knows I don't want to stay here any longer.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

But I shall.

[Ferdy]

Come back, you beggar on horseack. At the moment. At the moment I prefer to laugh.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I'm afraid he was rather rude to you, Susie.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Not the first time.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

No, I suppose not. But now that he's resigned from this agency, you won't be subjected to that kind of thing anymore.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

You certainly have changed, Topaz.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

For the good.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

For your good, I suppose, not for mine.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

How's that?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Well, you mustn't forget I had an interest in the agency too. In robbing Ferdie. You're robbing me? I used to get 8% on the turnover.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, yes, I see. Well, it would be a pity to sacrifice that 8%. I agree. Then why don't you keep it?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I don't know the conditions yet.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I owe a good deal to you, Susie, especially in the way of advice. And you see, I. I still lack something.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

What?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

The outward and visible sign of success. To wit, the constant company of a lovely woman. A wife. I particularly want your advice on the choice I have made. In that connection, if your Choice is already made.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Perhaps it's rather late to consult me about it. Who is she?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Guess.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Do I know her?

[Ferdy]

Very well.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Is she pretty?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Adorably. And what an instinct for clothes. The dress she wore yesterday was faultless.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Are you sure that she, in her turn, takes you quite seriously?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, possibly not. Who knows?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

It might be, for instance, that she looks upon you as a man without a future.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, she would be wrong.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

All the same, my advice is that you should prove yourself a little more before approaching her.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Well, I propose for once to disregard your advice.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Very well. But I've warned you.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Susie, will you turn around? Won't you turn around and look at me? Susie, I love you. Won't you say something? What?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

What would you like me to say?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

I should like you to say, I love you too, Topaz.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

I love you too, Topaz. Excuse me, Monsieur Topaz, but Monsieur Duhamel is here.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Who?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Monsieur Duhamel, the minister of the Colony.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh. Oh, oh, yes, yes. Ask him if he'll be good enough to wait. I shall only keep him a minute. I'll ring when I'm ready.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Very good, monsieur. Great men of business don't waste their time on women.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh, that's a profound mistake. They do. Besides, this is no waste of time. You do love me, don't you, Topaz?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Darling, what are you looking at me like that for?

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

What do you see in my eyes?

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Why, a smile. A sort of smile.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Do you not read in my eyes? Unthinkable thing.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

No, darling, no. No, I don't.

[Ferdy]

Oh.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Oh. Well, then, Susie, I have reached the moment to be firm.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

Of course you have, darling.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

Yes.

[Madame Susie Courtois]

This is when you kiss me on the lips. M.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

The Columbia Broadcasting System has brought you Studio 1, a new series of hour length versions for listening of celebrated stories, novels and plays. Tonight from Studio One, you have heard Fletcher Markel's script and production of Topaz by Marcel Panol and Ben Levy. The original musical score was composed and conducted by Alexander Semler. Now, for your interest, may a producer introduce the principals of the cast. Featured in the title role tonight is the remarkable Monsieur Topaz. Everett Sloane as Madame Susie Courtois. Anne Burr as Monsieur Castell. Sebastian Cabot as Roger de Berville. Harold Dierenforth.

[Monsieur Albert Topaz]

And as the Baroness Hester Sundergaard.

[Narrator / Fletcher Markle]

Next Tuesday night from Studio One at cbs, Henrik Ibsen's An Enemy of the People. A very powerful and penetrating story arranged in contemporary terms especially for the series. Until next week, then. And Ibsen's An Enemy of the People. This is Fletcher Markle with a Good night and thank you from all of us in Studio one. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.