The Fat Man 46-02-11 (004) The Twice Told Secret

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Fat Man 46-02-11 (004) The Twice Told Secret"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: The Fat Man 46-02-11 (004) The Twice Told Secret
• Release Date: May 23, 2025
• Description: This episode delves into the enigmatic world of "The Fat Man," a criminologist from Dashiell Hammett's creation, navigating mysterious adventures filled with intrigue, secrets, and suspense.

---

Introduction

"The Fat Man: The Twice Told Secret" introduces listeners to a classic radio drama set in an era before television, capturing the essence of suspense and detective work. The narrative unfolds around Richard Kavanaugh, known as "The Fat Man," whose journey intertwines with that of Brad Runyon, a private detective played by Brad Runyon, and other intriguing characters.

---

Characters and Setting

• Richard Kavanaugh (The Fat Man): A criminologist and the central figure whose personal and professional life is at the heart of the mystery.
• Brad Runyon: A savvy private detective assisting Mr. Kavanaugh.
• Mo Lippman: The neighborhood shoe repairman who inadvertently becomes a pivotal character by uncovering critical clues.
• Kathy (Rita Morgan): The woman caught in the midst of the unfolding drama, whose actions drive much of the plot.
• Richie: A mysterious figure connected to the central conflict involving a pawn ticket and a bracelet.

---

Plot Overview

The episode kicks off with Mo Lippman recounting an unusual situation involving a wealthy man purchasing numerous high-end suits from his shop, hinting at underlying financial troubles despite apparent wealth. He discovers a pawn ticket in the pocket of one such suit, leading him to suspect that the man is in genuine need, contrary to his outward appearance.

Notable Quote:

Mo Lippman (02:58): "A pawn ticket. Now, there is human nature for you. Man has enough capital to finance a railroad, so he's got to go to a pawn shop and hawk something."

This discovery sets off a chain reaction, drawing Brad Runyon and The Fat Man into a complex web of deceit, love, and betrayal.

---

Key Events and Discussions

1. The Pawn Ticket Mystery:

   • Mo Lippman (02:58): "A pawn ticket."
   • Brad Runyon investigates the pawn ticket, suspecting it holds key information about the man's financial distress and possible motives.

2. Encounter with Richie:

   • Brad confronts Richie in an apartment, leading to a tense exchange about a bracelet belonging to Rita Morgan.
   • Brad Runyon (05:36): "January 28, huh? Didn't wear it very long, did she?"

3. Unraveling Relationships:

   • The interplay between Richard Kavanaugh, Brad Runyon, and Rita Morgan becomes increasingly intricate as motivations and secrets emerge.
   • The Fat Man (12:26): "I'm in love with Miss Morgan. Very much in love, in spite of the pawn tickets, Richie and everything else."

4. The Murder Scene:

   • A dramatic turn occurs when a body is discovered in the office, leading to a confrontation between Brad Runyon and The Fat Man.
   • Brad Runyon (19:04): "Nothing's missing. Kathy. Something's been added."

5. Revelation and Resolution:

   • It is unveiled that The Fat Man, Richard Kavanaugh, orchestrated events to protect his son's innocence while dealing with his own feelings for Rita Morgan.
   • The Fat Man (28:28): "I killed him during the struggle."

---

Insights and Themes

• Deception and Truth: The episode masterfully explores how appearances can be deceiving, emphasizing that wealth does not equate to happiness or moral integrity.
• Love and Sacrifice: Richard Kavanaugh's love for Rita Morgan drives him to take extreme measures, highlighting the complexities of personal relationships intertwined with professional duties.
• Justice and Redemption: Brad Runyon embodies the relentless pursuit of truth, striving to ensure justice is served while uncovering hidden motives and truths.

Notable Quote:

Brad Runyon (29:38): "No, you weren't, Mr. Kavanaugh. I just made it look that way to drag a confession out of you."

This line underscores Brad's tactical approach to solving mysteries, emphasizing his role as the moral compass in the narrative.

---

Conclusion

"The Fat Man: The Twice Told Secret" is a compelling episode that encapsulates the essence of Golden Age radio dramas. Through intricate plotting and dynamic character interactions, it delivers a story rich with suspense, emotional depth, and moral dilemmas. The resolution not only ties up the mystery but also offers a poignant commentary on the lengths one will go for love and the pursuit of truth.

Final Notable Quote:

Brad Runyon (31:37): "No two murderers are alike. With the smart ones, you gotta play dumb. With the fools, you have to be clever. But with a madman, it's always a shot in the dark."

This closing remark encapsulates the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the challenges faced by those seeking justice.

---

Episode Highlights

• Intricate Mystery: The layered plot keeps listeners engaged, unraveling secrets step by step.
• Dynamic Characters: Each character brings depth and complexity, driving the narrative forward.
• Classic Radio Drama Elements: Authentic sound effects and period-appropriate dialogue enhance the listening experience.

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Closing Thoughts

"The Twice Told Secret" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of radio dramas, blending mystery, emotion, and moral complexity. For newcomers, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era's storytelling prowess, while longtime fans will appreciate the nuanced performances and intricate plot development.

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Note: Advertisements and non-content sections interspersed within the transcript were intentionally omitted to maintain the narrative flow and focus on the story's essence.

Transcript

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Weight 247lbs.

[Brad Runyon]

Fortune danger.

[Unknown]

Who is it?

[Brad Runyon]

The Fat man.

[O'Sullivan]

Your neighborhood shoe repairman and O. Sullivan, America, America's number one heel. Bring you Dashiell Hammett's latest and most fascinating character, the Fat Man. The fast moving, mysterious adventures of a criminologist who tips the scale at 247 pounds. Tonight's adventure, the Twice Told Secret.

[The Fat Man]

Now, here's the Fat Man.

[Brad Runyon]

For one reason, most people think of Fat man as a jolly fellow with a soft heart and a timid soul. Lots of times it works out that way. But most of the time, the guy that's fat never gives up thinking he can be thin. And in the back of his mind, he's just as fast on his feet as you are. Especially with a woman. As a matter of fact, with a woman, he might even be a little faster. This story began in a tailor shop around the corner from where I live. The usual kind of a place. Mo Lippman, the guy that owns it, is the usual kind of a guy. I see him for about five minutes every month. When I do, I tell him about catching crooks and he tells me about pressing pans.

[Mo Lippman]

The strange thing, Mr. Ronan, very strange thing. In this business, you're learning something new about people all the time. You see this pinstripe suit made by Doctor and Son, the best tailors in the business. Cost maybe three, maybe $400 without extras. And the man who owns it, he buys them by the dozen.

[Brad Runyon]

Rich, huh?

[Mo Lippman]

Rich. We should have in nickels what he has in thousand dollar bills.

[Brad Runyon]

Well, what's the point of your story, Mom?

[Mo Lippman]

Well, I'm telling you, this guy has all the money in the world. What do you think I found in his pocket?

[Brad Runyon]

What?

[Mo Lippman]

A pawn ticket. Now, there is human nature for you. Man has enough capital to finance a railroad, so he's got to go to a pawn shop and hawk something.

[The Fat Man]

Yes.

[Unknown]

Do you take care of Mr. Cavanaugh's clothes, Mr. Cavanaugh?

[Mo Lippman]

Oh, sure. I was Just talking to him about this gentleman here.

[Unknown]

Well, did you pick up a suit from him today? A double breasted pinstripe?

[Mo Lippman]

You mean this one?

[Unknown]

Yes, that's it. May I see it, please?

[Mo Lippman]

Well, I didn't press it.

[Unknown]

Well, that's all right. It doesn't matter.

[Mo Lippman]

Wait a minute, lady. I can't let you go through the pockets. I don't even know who you are.

[Unknown]

I'm a very good friend of Mr. Kavanaugh's.

[Mo Lippman]

Even so.

[Unknown]

Don't be a fool. I'm not trying to steal anything.

[Brad Runyon]

What are you trying to do?

[Unknown]

Find something I left in the pocket of his suit last night.

[Brad Runyon]

It wasn't a pawn ticket by any chance, was it?

[Kathy]

Why, yes, it was yours.

[Unknown]

Please, I want it back. Where is it?

[Brad Runyon]

You haven't answered my question yet.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Is it yours?

[Unknown]

Well, I don't see how it concerns you. But if you must know, yes, it is. Now, may I have it, please?

[Mo Lippman]

Well, I don't know.

[Brad Runyon]

Sorry, miss, we haven't got it.

[The Fat Man]

What?

[Brad Runyon]

Mo just returned it to Mr. Cavanaugh.

[Unknown]

Well, that was a stupid thing to do. Now I have to.

[Brad Runyon]

What?

[Kathy]

Nothing.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Brad Runyon]

Where are you going?

[Unknown]

None of your business.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay, sister.

[Mo Lippman]

Mr. Runyon, what are you doing to me? Why did you tell her we didn't have the ticket?

[Brad Runyon]

Because I didn't want you to give it to her.

[Mo Lippman]

Fine. Now she'll go back to Kavanaugh.

[Brad Runyon]

She won't go anywhere, Mo.

[Mo Lippman]

Why not? It's her ticket, isn't it?

[Brad Runyon]

But she didn't put it into Kavanaugh's pocket.

[Mo Lippman]

How do you know?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Figure it out.

[Brad Runyon]

If she left it in his pocket, she wouldn't be so anxious to get.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

It back before the suit was returned.

[Mo Lippman]

You mean Kavanaugh doesn't know about this ticket?

[Brad Runyon]

Maybe he doesn't know and she's not gonna tell him. How long will it be before you deliver that suit, Mo?

[Mo Lippman]

A couple of hours.

[Brad Runyon]

You mind if I borrow the ticket in the meantime?

[Mo Lippman]

But.

[Brad Runyon]

Please. Worth the five spot to me. Move. What do you say?

[Mo Lippman]

Never mind the five spots. If you bring it back.

[Brad Runyon]

Boy, I just want to find out what she hunked. And if I get the case, I'll give you a commission.

[Mo Lippman]

Case? Who said anything about a case?

[Brad Runyon]

Nobody. I just smell one coming.

[The Fat Man]

Well, if it's not your ticket, Mr. Onion, I don't know if I ought to show you the merchandise.

[Brad Runyon]

But I just told you I'm thinking of making the ticket good. Only I want to see what I'm buying first.

[The Fat Man]

Well, I suppose it's all right right here in this case.

[Brad Runyon]

Which one is it?

[The Fat Man]

This one. Bracelet.

[Brad Runyon]

Some hunk of ice. What's that inscription on the inside?

[The Fat Man]

Huh?

[Mo Lippman]

Oh.

[The Fat Man]

To rita with love, January 28, 1946.

[Brad Runyon]

January 28, huh? Didn't wear it very long, did she?

[The Fat Man]

No.

[Brad Runyon]

You got the owner's address there. I want to make sure I've got the right party.

[The Fat Man]

Oh, certainly. The name is Richie. The apartment is 14V Cortland Tower.

[Brad Runyon]

Thanks.

[The Fat Man]

Now, anything else I can do for you?

[Brad Runyon]

Well, just to make sure. Yep? Remember what this dame looks like.

[O'Sullivan]

What's that?

[Brad Runyon]

The dame.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

What does she look like?

[The Fat Man]

You Must be mistaken, Mr. Onion. Woman didn't pawn this placement. Richie is a man.

[Brad Runyon]

Yeah.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Mr. Ritchie?

[The Fat Man]

That's right. Who are you?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

The fat man.

[Brad Runyon]

Brad Runyon.

[The Fat Man]

Never heard of you.

[Brad Runyon]

Wait a minute. Don't try to close the door in my face. It isn't polite.

[The Fat Man]

Get your foot out of there. I'll step on it.

[Brad Runyon]

It's a good trick, Ritchie. It works. Here's one for you.

[The Fat Man]

Go. You dirty louse.

[Brad Runyon]

Don't blame me, Richie. You're not up on your judo.

[The Fat Man]

What do you want?

[Brad Runyon]

I'd like to come in. May I?

[The Fat Man]

Come on. Come on. What do you want?

[Brad Runyon]

I'd like to know how you happened to get a hold of a bracelet, Richie. Bracelet belonging to a girl named Rita.

[The Fat Man]

How did you know about that?

[Brad Runyon]

I have four ears.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Now, look.

[Brad Runyon]

What gives with this bracelet you pawned?

[The Fat Man]

I didn't pawn anything.

[Brad Runyon]

Look, Richie, I've got the ticket right here in my pocket.

[The Fat Man]

How did you get a hold of it?

[Brad Runyon]

The same way you got the bracelet. I lifted it.

[The Fat Man]

Don't be funny. Rita gave me that bracelet.

[Brad Runyon]

She did, huh? Rita who?

[The Fat Man]

Morgan. She's a friend of mine.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

What does she look like?

[The Fat Man]

Why should I tell you?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

What does she look like?

[The Fat Man]

Well, she's blonde, about 30. Stands about so high.

[Brad Runyon]

Yeah, it's the same one, all right.

[The Fat Man]

You know her?

[Brad Runyon]

Well, I just met her in a tailor shop. Only I can't figure being a friend of yours.

[The Fat Man]

Handle your papers, mister. I don't have to talk to you.

[Brad Runyon]

Would you rather talk to the police.

[The Fat Man]

About stealing a bracelet?

[Brad Runyon]

Sure.

[Unknown]

What's going on? You left the door open, Richie.

[Brad Runyon]

I didn't.

[The Fat Man]

The fat man didn't what?

[Brad Runyon]

So you do know each other. I told you we did.

[Unknown]

Just a moment. What's he doing here?

[Mo Lippman]

Richie, Accusing me of stealing your bracelet?

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[O'Sullivan]

The PR ticket in this pocket.

[Unknown]

Oh, you brought it back to me.

[Brad Runyon]

No, ma' am, I didn't bring it back to anybody.

[Unknown]

For heaven's sake, what are you trying to do? I want that pawn ticket. I've got to have it.

[Brad Runyon]

Well, you won't get it by pounding on my chest.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Now lay up.

[Unknown]

You don't understand. You don't know what that ticket means to me.

[Brad Runyon]

Save it, sister. My heart's out on strike today.

[The Fat Man]

Okay, okay.

[Brad Runyon]

I'm going. Only I didn't know you had the right to kick me out of another man's apartment.

[Unknown]

Another man's apartment? What are you talking about? Richie doesn't live here.

[Brad Runyon]

No, no.

[Unknown]

This is my apart.

[The Fat Man]

Mr. Runyon.

[Mo Lippman]

Mr. Runyon. Where have you been?

[Brad Runyon]

Nosing around? What's the matter, Mo? My two hours aren't up yet, but Mr. Cavanaugh's here.

[Mo Lippman]

His son, I mean. And he wants that phone ticket.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay, okay, I'll give it to him.

[The Fat Man]

You had no right to take it, Mr. Runyon. He had no right to give it to you.

[Brad Runyon]

No. Now, don't get all excited, son. There's no harm done as long as.

[The Fat Man]

Never mind. Just give me that ticket and let me put it back in my father's suit. I want him to find it in his pocket. Oh, I see.

[Brad Runyon]

You're the one who put it there.

[The Fat Man]

What if I did? What business is that of yours?

[Brad Runyon]

None, I suppose. Only I might be able to help you.

[The Fat Man]

I don't need any help.

[Brad Runyon]

I wouldn't be too sure of that. Especially if you're working against a woman like Rita Morgan.

[The Fat Man]

What?

[Brad Runyon]

You're not trying to make your father give her up, are you?

[The Fat Man]

Well, I.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

It's a big job, kid. A very big job.

[The Fat Man]

And I can handle it. Dad gave her that bracelet less than a month ago. And when he finds out who pawned it, he'll never marry her.

[Brad Runyon]

Oh, so that's the game. She wants him to marry her?

[The Fat Man]

Never mind. Just give me that pawn ticket and leave me alone.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay, kid. I've got it right here. Where the little devil.

[The Fat Man]

What's the matter?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

She stole it right out of my pocket.

[Brad Runyon]

Look, kid, there's no point in dragging me into your father's office.

[The Fat Man]

Oh, yes, there is. Now, look, I want you to tell him exactly what happened. And tell him about Richie being in that apartment too.

[Brad Runyon]

That's a stiff order, Dick. He isn't gonna like being told things like that if they're engaged to be married.

[The Fat Man]

But they can't be married. Don't you understand? All she wants is his money.

[Brad Runyon]

His in particular or just anybody's?

[The Fat Man]

Anybody. You've got to make dad see that. Otherwise, he'll regret it for the rest of his life.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay, kid. I'll do the best I can.

[The Fat Man]

All right, Smart. You busy, dad? Why, Richard, what's the matter? Nothing. I I just want you to meet somebody. Mr. Runyon, this is my father.

[Brad Runyon]

How do you do?

[The Fat Man]

How do you do? Mr. Runyon's a private detective, Father.

[Brad Runyon]

Oh, yes.

[The Fat Man]

I believe I've heard of him. I don't understand. It's about Rita. Dad, Mr. Runyon's found out big.

[Brad Runyon]

Please.

[The Fat Man]

I think you ought to allow me the privilege of speaking to him alone. Don't you agree? All right, then, I'll go. I'll speak to you at home tonight. Very well, sir. Poor kid. He's all upset.

[Brad Runyon]

Maybe he has a right to be, Mr. Kavanaugh.

[The Fat Man]

Now, look here, Runyon. Before you take sight in this case, you better know all the facts.

[Brad Runyon]

What are they?

[The Fat Man]

Well, one of them is, I know about that ponticate. Mm.

[Brad Runyon]

I'm glad you told me.

[The Fat Man]

And I know about Richie too. At least I know he's pawned some of the things I've given Ms. Morgan.

[Brad Runyon]

And you're still engaged to be married?

[The Fat Man]

Yes. Does that surprise you?

[Brad Runyon]

A little.

[The Fat Man]

Then this will surprise you more. I'm in love with Miss Morgan. Very much in love, in spite of the pawn tickets, Richie and everything else.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Oh, then this is where I step out.

[The Fat Man]

No. Well, I'd like you to step in, Mr. Runyon.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Why?

[The Fat Man]

Because I want to marry Miss Morgan.

[Brad Runyon]

That shouldn't be hard.

[The Fat Man]

Fool, Runyon. She's not interested in me because of my money. She's in love with me.

[Brad Runyon]

And what's holding you back?

[The Fat Man]

That's what I want you to find out. For some reason or other, she won't marry me. Why, it's a strange thing, Runyon, but I'm sure this fellow Richie has some Mysterious holdover terrorizing her in a way I can't understand. And I can't help but feel that something disastrous is going to happen. Why, somebody is going to be murdered.

[O'Sullivan]

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[The Fat Man]

Hello.

[Brad Runyon]

Hiya, baby.

[Kathy]

Brad, how nice to hear from you. In the middle of the day. Or did you call me up for a favor?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Well, I'll tell you, Kathy.

[Kathy]

Oh, I knew it. What do you want me to do, Go to church?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Have you ever been there?

[Kathy]

Not with you, dear. When are we going?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

You're going right now, if you can. I've got to check up on a guy named Richie. And while I'm doing that, I thought you might do some checking up, too.

[Kathy]

In church?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Yeah. The Church of the Heather on Pine Street. Mr. Dolson is the minister, Dawson. Well, I want you to find out about some wedding arrangements.

[Kathy]

Brad, you darling.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Don't get any ideas, sweetheart. This is a wedding that's been postponed twice.

[Kathy]

Oh, whose is it?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Mr. Cavanaugh's. Now, look, baby, I'd like to know exactly why that wedding was postponed each time.

[Kathy]

I see.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

And while you're at it, you might ask Mr. Dolson if there's any chance of the next day being postponed. Kind of important.

[Kathy]

Why?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Because if the wedding doesn't come off this time, he may have to change the ceremony to a funeral.

[The Fat Man]

Well, I don't quite know how to answer your question, young lady. You see, the wedding has been called off twice already under the most peculiar circumstances.

[Kathy]

How do you mean, Mr. Dawson?

[The Fat Man]

It was originally scheduled to take place about three months ago, but just a few days before the ceremony.

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[Kathy]

That doesn't sound terribly mysterious.

[The Fat Man]

I didn't think so either at first. When I stopped in at the hospital to pay her a visit, I found out she wasn't even registered.

[Kathy]

Oh, I see.

[The Fat Man]

That's why I was surprised when they set another date for the wedding. Where Fat date was called off, too.

[Kathy]

What?

[The Fat Man]

There was some difficulty about a license. Mr. Kavanaugh said it was his fault, but I always had a feeling it was hers.

[Kathy]

Then you don't really know if the ceremony will ever take place.

[The Fat Man]

Well, another date has been set for the week from Monday.

[Brad Runyon]

Mr. Dawson? Yes.

[The Fat Man]

My name's Richie Rich. How do you do? I understand you're planning to perform a wedding ceremony next Monday afternoon.

[Brad Runyon]

Why, yes.

[The Fat Man]

You better call it off. I beg your pardon? Call it off, Mr. Dawson. Otherwise you're going to have trouble. Just what do you mean, young man? I mean you won't get through the ceremony. Take my tip, padre. Call the wedding off.

[Kathy]

Brad, why are you dragging me back to the office?

[Brad Runyon]

It may be a long afternoon, honey. And you're much more interesting than a game of solitaire.

[Kathy]

I resent that, Mr. Romwell.

[Brad Runyon]

I don't know why solitaire is my favorite game for one person.

[Kathy]

I'm getting pretty tired of being taken for granted all the time.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Oh, don't be a chump.

[Brad Runyon]

I feel like a wellerweight when I'm with you, baby. I wouldn't swap the you for a bowl full of Hetty, Lamar. Hey, that's funny. All right, the door's open. Cleaning woman must have forgotten to lock it.

[Kathy]

I hope nothing's missing.

[Brad Runyon]

Better not be.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

I.

[Brad Runyon]

Nothing's missing. Kathy. Something's Been added.

[Kathy]

What?

[Brad Runyon]

A man on the floor.

[Kathy]

He be dead.

[Brad Runyon]

He certainly looks it. There's blood all over him.

[Kathy]

Who is it?

[Brad Runyon]

It's Ricky.

[The Fat Man]

Murdoch. In your office?

[Brad Runyon]

That's what I said. O' Hara, not more than an hour ago, somebody bashed his head in with my best bronze figure.

[The Fat Man]

Only mackerel. Wait there for me, Brant. I'll be over in six minutes.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay. I'll sit tight till you get here. Oh, what a mess. What a mess. I don't mind people dying in my office, but they ought to die clean.

[Kathy]

That's not risky. The murderers should have used poison.

[The Fat Man]

He or she.

[Brad Runyon]

That's what I was thinking. There was a dame in this office before we got here.

[Kathy]

How can you tell?

[The Fat Man]

Look at this ashtray.

[Brad Runyon]

Lipstick on the end of a cigarette stub. And it isn't your shade, is it, Ms. Morton? I don't know, honey. I didn't study her lips.

[Kathy]

What did you that?

[Brad Runyon]

What's the matter?

[Kathy]

I. I heard something move in that closet.

[Brad Runyon]

Quick. Get down.

[Kathy]

What are you going to do?

[Brad Runyon]

Open it up. Well, fancy meeting you here, Mr. Kavanaugh.

[The Fat Man]

I rather wish you hadn't.

[Brad Runyon]

I don't blame you.

[The Fat Man]

Oh, it's not as bad as all that. I. I didn't kill him on you. He was dead when I got here.

[Brad Runyon]

You'll have to figure out a better one than that, Ms. Kavanaugh.

[The Fat Man]

You're a perfect suspect. I know. It was stupid of me to hide. I should have realized how it would look to somebody else.

[Brad Runyon]

Never mind how it looks. How is it?

[The Fat Man]

Well, I. I got here about 10 minutes ago and found the body just where it is now. As soon as I recognized Richie, I began to wonder who had killed him.

[Brad Runyon]

How did you recognize Richie?

[The Fat Man]

Well, I seen a picture of him in three to his apartment.

[Brad Runyon]

Go on.

[The Fat Man]

Well, I had a feeling that Richie might have been killed by somebody I cared about. So I looked around to see if any clues had been left behind.

[Brad Runyon]

Then you heard us outside?

[The Fat Man]

Yes. I don't know why, but I got panicky and dashed in here. Then when you spoke on the phone, I realized the police would come and I'd be discovered. Unless.

[Brad Runyon]

Unless what?

[The Fat Man]

Unless you let me go.

[Brad Runyon]

That's a big condition, Mr. Kavanaugh, if you're it. I can get into a lot of trouble.

[The Fat Man]

But you're the only one who knows I'm here. You and this young lady. How about it, Runyon?

[Brad Runyon]

All right, Mr. Kavanaugh. You can beat it.

[The Fat Man]

Thank you. Thanks ever so much.

[Brad Runyon]

Wait a minute. What are you picking up there?

[The Fat Man]

My Hat. Stop it.

[Brad Runyon]

But.

[The Fat Man]

Stop it, I said.

[Brad Runyon]

Don't you know you can't touch anything at the scene of a crime?

[The Fat Man]

If they find my hat here, they'll suspect me.

[Brad Runyon]

Let them.

[The Fat Man]

You didn't do it.

[Brad Runyon]

The murderer will prove your innocence.

[The Fat Man]

Oh, now, Mr. Ruggie, you. You can't make me leave this hat, do you?

[Brad Runyon]

I can and I will.

[Unknown]

Let go.

[Brad Runyon]

I thought so. Ms. Cavanaugh, you had a very good reason for wanting to remove this hat.

[The Fat Man]

What do you mean? It isn't yours?

[Brad Runyon]

See the initial?

[The Fat Man]

I. I did look.

[Brad Runyon]

Oh, yes, you did. You're trying to protect someone who was here before you were. Your son, Richard.

[The Fat Man]

This is important, Parker. Now tell us, when did Richard leave the house? About 10 minutes ago.

[Brad Runyon]

And he was here at home all afternoon?

[The Fat Man]

Yes. It's running except for about 15 minutes.

[Brad Runyon]

When was that?

[The Fat Man]

About 3:00, I should say. He said he had to pick up a railroad reservation.

[Brad Runyon]

For what train? Do you know?

[The Fat Man]

Yes, the 8 o' clock flyer I should call it.

[Brad Runyon]

And he's making a run for it.

[The Fat Man]

Just a minute, William. Did Richard say he was leaving town tonight Park? Oh, no, sir, he's not leaving. He hasn't packed or anything.

[Brad Runyon]

Then why did he pick up a railroad reservation?

[The Fat Man]

Oh, that wasn't for him, Mr. Ro.

[Brad Runyon]

How do you know?

[The Fat Man]

Because the chauffeur delivered it to Ms. Morgan.

[Kathy]

I guess she's gone, Brad.

[Brad Runyon]

Either that or she won't open the door. Come on, come on, open up. We know you're there soon. No, but we're going in anyway.

[Kathy]

How can we? The door's lawn.

[Brad Runyon]

Just give me some room. Oh, one more and I'll have it there. It'll save us the Trouble. Well, hello, Ms. Morgan. Don't you an exit your door not.

[Unknown]

Hon, I'm in a hurry.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

What's the rush?

[Brad Runyon]

The train doesn't leave till 8 o' clock and you're practically all packed.

[Unknown]

That's no concern of yours, mister.

[The Fat Man]

Run.

[Kathy]

Oh, look out for it. He's got a gun.

[Unknown]

I'm gonna use it too. She's gotta stand in my way.

[Brad Runyon]

Don't be silly, Ms. Morgan. I always yield to a gun. Especially a pearl handled one.

[Unknown]

Stand over there, both of you.

[Brad Runyon]

Certainly I had no intention of stopping you from leaving. I'm glad you're running away.

[Unknown]

I'll bet you are.

[Brad Runyon]

I am much more incriminating this way. Flight is almost an admission of guilt.

[Unknown]

Well, that isn't the reason I'm going.

[Brad Runyon]

Yeah, what is?

[Kathy]

I can't afford to stay.

[Unknown]

I'll be convicted of A murder I didn't commit.

[Brad Runyon]

That doesn't happen very often, Ms. Morgan.

[Unknown]

No, but it will this time. There's no way out of it. I had every reason to kill him.

[Brad Runyon]

Reason isn't enough. You have to have the opportunity.

[Unknown]

I had that too. I was with him when he went into your office. The door wasn't locked, and we went in together.

[Brad Runyon]

But you left before the murder took place.

[Unknown]

Yes, I did. When I left, Richie was alive.

[Brad Runyon]

And now you're running away because. Because young Mr. Kavanaugh was good enough to provide you with a ticket.

[Unknown]

Poor young Richard KAVANAUGH Hates me, Mr. Runyon. That ticket he sent me was just another threat. For weeks now, he's been threatening to kill me if I didn't get out of town and leave his father alone. This afternoon he sent me the ticket.

[Brad Runyon]

And you're taking it because it comes in mighty handy.

[Unknown]

That's right.

[Brad Runyon]

A good story, Ms. Morgan. You'll never get on that train.

[Unknown]

You won't stop me.

[Brad Runyon]

I won't have to. I'll have the cops pick you up at the station.

[Unknown]

Stay where you are.

[Brad Runyon]

Don't be a fool, Miss Morgan.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

The minute you step out that door.

[Brad Runyon]

You put a noose around your neck.

[Unknown]

That's my outlook. You just stay where you are, though. I'm going.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay, sister, go ahead.

[Unknown]

I will. Goodbye, Mr. Running.

[Brad Runyon]

So long. Count three, Kathy, and then pick up the phone.

[Kathy]

All right. One, two, three. D what was that?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Shot out in the hall? Stay here, baby. I'll find out what's going on.

[Unknown]

Oh, my arms.

[Brad Runyon]

My arm. Ms. Morgan, what happened? He shot me in the office. Who?

[Unknown]

I don't know. He was standing there in the dark over there by the stick.

[Brad Runyon]

Well, he's gone now. I'm gonna get you to a doctor. There's just one thing I want to know first. A moment ago you said you had every reason to kill Ricky. What was the reason?

[Unknown]

He was blackmailing me. He wouldn't step out of the way and Let me marry Mr. Cavanaugh.

[Brad Runyon]

What do you mean, he wouldn't step out of the way?

[Unknown]

Just that, Mr. Runyon. Richie. With my husband.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Hello, O' Hara.

[The Fat Man]

Well, it's about time you called.

[O'Sullivan]

Runyon.

[The Fat Man]

Where the devil are you?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Over at the doctor's with Kathy and Ms. Morgan.

[The Fat Man]

Are you sure you're with Ms. Morgan?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Of course I am. She's in with the doctor right now.

[The Fat Man]

Well, you better keep an eye on her.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Yeah. What's the matter?

[The Fat Man]

She may be pulling a stunt to.

[O'Sullivan]

Duck out on you.

[The Fat Man]

Didn't you tell me she held you up with a pearl handle revolver.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

That's right.

[The Fat Man]

Well, we found the gun in the hall with two chambers empty. And if you ask me, she shot herself with it.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Dr. Lewis? Dr. Lewis.

[The Fat Man]

Yes, what is it, Mr. Ryan?

[Brad Runyon]

Have you finished treating Ms. Morgan yet? Why, of course.

[The Fat Man]

I finished about ten minutes ago.

[Brad Runyon]

Well, where is she?

[The Fat Man]

I don't know.

[Brad Runyon]

Didn't you come out this way? No. Is there another exit in the back? Why, yes. Then that's the one she must have taken.

[The Fat Man]

Call her for her, Cathy, quick.

[Brad Runyon]

Tell him to get a hold of Kavanaugh and meet me at the station. There's still time to catch that train.

[The Fat Man]

How do you know this is the right drawing room?

[Brad Runyon]

I checked the reservation, Ms. Cavanaugh. All right, O' Hara, push the button.

[The Fat Man]

Okay.

[Kathy]

Do you think she's on this train? Brat?

[Brad Runyon]

I don't think anything right now, but we got to find out. Yes, well, Richard Kavanaugh. What's that?

[The Fat Man]

Mr. Runyon? What's this all about?

[Brad Runyon]

Suppose you tell us, kid. What are you doing in this drawing room?

[The Fat Man]

Why, I was just waiting for Ms. Morgan. I wanted to make sure she got on the train.

[Richard Kavanaugh]

Still carrying out your threat?

[The Fat Man]

Well, more or less, yes. Is there anything wrong with my being here?

[Brad Runyon]

Plenty. Ed Ritchie is dead, kid, just in case you didn't know. And the way it's stacked up right now. You're the one who killed him.

[The Fat Man]

What? Runyon, that's ridiculous. Why would Dick want to kill Richie?

[Brad Runyon]

For lots of reasons. You see what I'm driving at, Mr. Kavanaugh? You won't be so anxious to protect him.

[The Fat Man]

Don't be a fool.

[Brad Runyon]

Don't you be one. This kid and your beautiful bride are running out on you together. They're in love with each other.

[The Fat Man]

I don't believe it.

[Brad Runyon]

You don't have to. The jury will.

[The Fat Man]

But what about the threats, Brad? And all that stuff about the phone.

[Brad Runyon]

Ticket that was all put on to make it look as if they hated each other?

[The Fat Man]

We did.

[Brad Runyon]

Don't give me that. You left a damaging piece of evidence in my office. Kid, your hat. If that isn't enough to convict you, here's the rest of the proof coming down the aisle now, Ms. Morgan.

[O'Sullivan]

Grab her.

[Brad Runyon]

O' Hara, will you get an arm before you rest?

[Richard Kavanaugh]

This boy.

[The Fat Man]

Just a minute. He didn't kill Richie.

[Brad Runyon]

Stop the noise.

[The Fat Man]

He didn't, I tell you. Provided.

[Unknown]

Darling, don't say that.

[The Fat Man]

True, dear. I asked him to meet me in Running's office. When I found out the secret he was holding over your head. Had an argument There. I killed him during the struggle. What about the hat? The hat was Richard's, all right. I killed it by mistake. When I left the house this morning when I may believe I was protecting him by trying to remove it. What was the idea of that? I wanted to throw everybody off the tracker. I was sure he could prove he didn't commit the murder. But the way it worked out, I was really friendly.

[Brad Runyon]

No, you weren't, Mr. Kavanaugh. I just made it look that way to drag a confession out of you. The case against Richard wouldn't stand up in court.

[The Fat Man]

Then why did you trick me?

[Brad Runyon]

Because I knew you'd never be convicted. I knew that the one who killed Richie did it in self defense. The mess you made out of my office proves it.

[The Fat Man]

And you wanted me to be acquitted in court.

[Brad Runyon]

Yeah, that's the idea. Otherwise you, who would have had to go through life trying to hide a murder. That's no life for a guy that's going to get married.

[Kathy]

Well, I guess I was wrong about you, Brad. You have got a heart after all.

[Brad Runyon]

I told you that, baby. It's in here somewhere.

[Kathy]

But how can I find it?

[Brad Runyon]

Don't look.

[Kathy]

Why not? Isn't it any use?

[Brad Runyon]

I don't know, Kathy. My heart doesn't beat like other people.

[Kathy]

Oh. What happened to it?

[Brad Runyon]

Well, it's a long story. Back in the days when I was young and only 220 pounds, beautiful girl like you decided to find out what made her fix. Well, she kind of bungled the job. She cut it up into a lot of little pieces. Nobody's been able to put it back together again.

[Kathy]

Brad, don't say that. I. I'm sure I know the cure for Humpty Dumpty.

[Brad Runyon]

Okay with me, honey. If your game, I'll take the treatment.

[O'Sullivan]

The fat man will be back in a few seconds with a word about next week's adventure. But first, a word from o' Sullivan. O' Sullivan's rubber heels and soles are fully guaranteed. That means if ever a pair of o' Sullivans do not seem satisfactory, take them back to your shoe repairman and a new pair will be attached free. When you buy an o' Sullivan rubber heel and sole, you can be sure that you are getting a quality product at low cost. Especially built to give long wear and real comfort. We hope you will remember to insist on o' Sullivan next. This week's story is called A Shot in the Dark. And as the fat man says.

[Brad Runyon]

No two murderers are alike. With the smart ones, you gotta play dumb. With the fools. You have to be clever. But with a madman, it's always a shot in the dark.

[O'Sullivan]

Listen in again next week at the same time when your neighborhood shoe repair man and o' Sullivan, America's number one heel, bring you a shot in the dark. Another in the adventures of Dashiell Hammett's exciting new character, the fat man. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Unknown]

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