
Whispering Streets xx-xx-xx (xxx) 100 Dollar Bill From Cupid
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Hope Winslow
What do you think makes the perfect snack?
Ellen Latimer
Hmm. It's gotta be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient.
Mother
Could you be more specific? When it's cravenient. Okay.
Ellen Latimer
Like a freshly baked cookie made with real butter, available right down the street at a.m. p.m. Or a savory breakfast.
Hope Winslow
Sandwich I can grab in just a.
Mother
Second at a.m. p.m. I'm seeing a pattern here.
Hope Winslow
Well, yeah, we're talking about what I.
Mother
Crave, which is anything from AM PM.
Roger Hamlin
What more could you want? Stop by AM PM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient. That's cravenience AM PM Too much good stuff.
Mother
Whispering.
Roger Hamlin
Whispering. Whispering Street. And here is Hope Winslow.
Ellen Latimer
Hello. All roads lead to Rome and many a Whispering street leads to a neighborhood restaurant. That's where families eat on the maid's night out. That's where bachelors go and career girls. Many people told Ellen Latimer that she had the easiest job in the world. Sitting behind a counter making change for in conversation with the customers of the Bluebird Tea Shop. But it wasn't such an easy job. It's hard to handle money hour after hour when you need money desperately to count it with accuracy so that the flips and the amounts received bang. Often Ellen went home from the restaurant bone weary and soul weary. But she always brought her mother something good to eat and a heartwarming smile. Hi, baby. Oh, no, Mother, Evie is fine.
Mother
And speaking of pie, River's life at Strawberry Chiffon Pie. It's heavenly.
Ellen Latimer
Oh, Auntie the darling. The Bluebird certainly has a good place to cook.
Mother
Yeah, we just hired her.
Ellen Latimer
You're the best yet. You're so quick with figures. And you have a way with people too. Everybody likes you. That's why you were able to get such a fine job. And that's why you were able to keep it.
Roger Hamlin
Oh.
Mother
What is it, dear?
Ellen Latimer
Oh, but it's only for a moment. It's just a stitch comes and goes.
Mother
You'll have your operation very soon and there won't be any more pain. The savings are piling up like mad. Are they really? Not that.
Ellen Latimer
I need the operation so badly, you understand. I can afford to wait.
Mother
Well, I can't afford to see you suffer one moment longer than necessary.
Ellen Latimer
How much more do you need?
Mother
Less than a hundred dollars. I wish I were a waitress and got tips.
Ellen Latimer
I wish it were Christmas.
Mother
Last year the management gave me $25. That'll be a big help right now.
Ellen Latimer
Yes, it would be.
Mother
Well, let's not think about money. Pie is the Main issue of the moment. I'll get you a fork, mother.
Ellen Latimer
Thank you, Ellen. Oh, Ellen, you're such a good girl. Ellen tried to smile at her mother, and she almost succeeded as she went to get the pie fork. Her step was quiet and so was her face, but her thoughts were in a turmoil. They beat against her brain like small, sharp hammers.
Mother
A good girl. Oh, if mother only knew the thoughts that race around in my head all day, every day.
Ellen Latimer
She wouldn't call me a good girl.
Mother
Queen Russell, if I couldn't figure out how I can steal $80 and get away with it. Not that I'd it for myself, but mother's so sweet and so patient, and she'll die if she doesn't have that operation. And when I took the job, they gave me a big talk about borrowing and lending. Oh, dear, what'll I do? I've got it.
Ellen Latimer
The fortune?
Mother
No, no, the solution. I'll go to the bank and borrow the money. I'll go tomorrow morning.
Ellen Latimer
But then you'll be in debt, dear.
Mother
Oh, it won't take me long to.
Ellen Latimer
Pay off such a small debt.
Mother
There's a man who comes into the Cleveland, mother. He's an author. Nice man, and we always have a little chat. His name's Roger Hamlin, and he's one of the executives in that bank on the corner of Clinton and Essex Street. Well, I'll take time off when they're cleaning up after the breakfast trade.
Ellen Latimer
We've never borrowed before, miss.
Mother
There's always a first time. Mother. Don't get that money.
Ellen Latimer
You weren't talking as distinctly as usual this evening, Ellen. I didn't hear that at all.
Mother
I was saying there's always a first time, mother, for everything.
Roger Hamlin
In just a moment, Hope Winslow will be back again. The first primarily entran named the flag. The word is easily traced to its beginning, the Latin signum sign, the angle that comes S e, g, n e means flag, and the Norman ansonia also means flag. In the 16th century, the British navy borrowed the term from the British army, where the word ensign meant not only a flag but a rank. Ensign bearer, the officer whose duty it was to carry and defend the flag as a rank ensue bearer was in use both in the French army and navy. Usage shortened the term to Ensign. In 1862, the American Navy adopted the ranks of the note of promoted midgie. In this complex world where word meanings are constantly changing, it's easy to be misunderstood. That's why it's a good idea to know your words. And now Back to our story. With hopeful and blow.
Ellen Latimer
Ellen presented herself at the bank next morning, somewhere between 10 and 11 o'.
Mother
Clock.
Ellen Latimer
There were deep circles under her eyes. Mother had spent a bad night. She was more worried than usual. She asked if she might see Mr. Roger Hamlin. He was taken to a small glass enclosed office and the man who was one of the Bluebirds steady customers rose from behind the desk and extended a cordial hand.
Roger Hamlin
Well, Ms. L. Good to see you.
Mother
Thank you.
Roger Hamlin
I presume you're here on business and.
Ellen Latimer
I know you press the time.
Mother
I just have a few minutes, really, so I'll come directly to the point, Mr. Hamlin. Could I possibly borrow some money from the bank?
Roger Hamlin
How much do you need?
Mother
A hundred dollars. It's this way, Mr. Hamlin. My mother's an invalid and she needs an operation desperately. The doctor is willing to wait forever.
Ellen Latimer
For his money, but there are certain.
Mother
Things that must be paid. The anesthetic and blood transfusions and a bed in the ward. I've been saving religiously for over a year. Mr. Ham, I have a little over $200. When I have 300, it'll be enough.
Roger Hamlin
There shouldn't be any problem. If you'll fill out these papers giving certain facts about yourself. The salary, the name of your employer.
Mother
The name of my employer? No, no, I couldn't do that.
Ellen Latimer
Why not?
Mother
Oh. Oh, no. Because it's against the policy of the tea shop for its employees to borrow money.
Roger Hamlin
But I'm sure they'd understand in a case like that.
Mother
No, no, I couldn't take the risk. Well, thanks for seeing me, Mr. Hamlin.
Roger Hamlin
I wish I could do something. I like you so much, Ms. Latimer. I. I've always thought that you were one of the most attractive young women in town. And you have a fine personality for your job.
Mother
A fine personality won't put my mother in a hospital. But maybe something will turn out.
Roger Hamlin
Yes, maybe something will. I'm glad you're taking an optimistic attitude, Miss Latin.
Ellen Latimer
Ellen Morgan. She walked away from the bank, her eyes clouded with tears. She reached the Bluebird just as the luncheon trade was about to come in. And as bills and silver slipped through her fingers, she counted mechanically. When the luncheon rush was over, she hurried home to fix her mother a bite of early dinner and to change into a less tailored dress. You certainly are on the go every minute of the day.
Mother
I don't know how you do it, Ellen. A mere twist of the.
Ellen Latimer
Miss Darling, I'm almost afraid you asked, but was that man at the bank willing to help.
Mother
I'm sorry he couldn't do his thing. He wanted to dreadfully, but there were certain rules. But keep your chin up, honey. It won't be long now. There are lots of things I can go about.
Ellen Latimer
Just name me seven of them.
Mother
Or even one of them.
Ellen Latimer
Well, elements of the burden, too. Maybe it'd be better if I were dead. At least we have enough insurance to cover my feelings.
Mother
Don't you ever say a thing like that again. Mother, I couldn't live without you. You mean everything to me.
Ellen Latimer
I know you're being completely honest, Ellen. I know there was a better daughter.
Mother
On this earth, but I didn't understand that you depressed me. But, Lisa, lately you've been feeling more painful. Oh, that's it, Mother. You don't have to answer my question, dear. I know the answer.
Ellen Latimer
Yes. People said you have such an easy job, Ms. Latimer. Such an easy job. Money, money, money. Sliding across the country, there were more $10 bills and $20 bills than Ellen had ever seen. That night, the conversation as customers paid and left was interspersed with hopeless prayer. And when a slim man in a black suit and a clerical collar waited for his change.
Mother
Did you enjoy your dinner?
Ellen Latimer
Pardon?
Roger Hamlin
Very much, Ms. Latimer, but there was something missing.
Mother
Oh. Oh, I'm sorry. I'll speak to the manager.
Roger Hamlin
No, no, it doesn't concern the food. Your smile's missing, and it's one of the children's big assets.
Mother
Thanks.
Roger Hamlin
Is something wrong?
Mother
My mother's ill, sir, and I'm worried to death. I keep praying for a miracle.
Roger Hamlin
The day of miracles isn't fast, Miss Larry. Always remember that. And I'll join my prayers with yours.
Ellen Latimer
So it went all evening. And then toward the end of the evening, as the place was almost ready to close, a man came up to the desk. He was a stranger to Ellen. The Bluebird didn't have many transients. He slid his check and the bill across to her.
Roger Hamlin
280 out of 10, please.
Mother
You're a stranger in town.
Roger Hamlin
I'm here for a few days, staying at the Mansion House. But the food there is atrocious.
Mother
I hope you liked our food.
Roger Hamlin
It was splendid. Real home cooking. Enjoyed it immensely.
Mother
Then you must prove it by coming back. Here's a change. Five into seven and 20 cents. 7:20, right?
Roger Hamlin
Right. Good evening, miss.
Mother
Good evening, sir. And you. Come again.
Ellen Latimer
He walked away tall, well dressed, just a ship passing the night. He reached the door as Ellen smoothed out the $10 and started to put it in the compartment of the cash register. Which was reserved for 10. Her eyes widened, her mouth opened as the door closed on the man's broad back. The bill wasn't a $10 bill. It was a hundred dollar bill she sat staring at because his essence was very nearly empty. Nobody interrupted the mad thoughts that were now racing through her brain.
Mother
$100, he said. 280 out of 10. It isn't my fault, he said. 280 out of $10 hundred dollars. Mother could go to the hospital tomorrow. $100 means so little to him that he'd think it was 10. He never missed it. And it means so much to me.
E
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Ellen Latimer
Try.
Hope Winslow
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Mother
And life I don't know his name. How can I get it back? I'll forget that he said he was staying at the Rancher. Now I'll forget Heaven helping me.
Ellen Latimer
Undercover of the shielding counter, Ellen opened her purse. One small zippered compartment Held his savings. She took out a ten dollar bill. She slid the hundred dollar bill into its place. She laid the ten dollar bill in the cash register and rang up to wait. Thirty minutes later, she took a taxi home. When she entered the apartment where the mother was waiting for her.
Mother
Tired, dear? Oh, no. It was an exciting evening. I've got chocolate pasta, drop cakes for you, Mother, and something much better than drop cakes. What do you mean? Well, Mr. Hammond at the bank arranged a loan for me. You can pack this suitcase tonight and I'll take you to the hospital first thing in the morning. Oh, you're gonna be well, Mother. You're gonna be well. What do you know about that? What do I know about it? I can't believe it. Helen, dear, are you telling me the truth? Have I ever lied to you, Mother?
Ellen Latimer
Not yet you haven't.
Mother
But.
Ellen Latimer
There'S something you must explain, Ellen.
Mother
If you got the loan, why didn't you say something about it this afternoon? Why didn't I say something about it? For the simple reason, Mother, that I wasn't sure I'd get it this afternoon.
Ellen Latimer
But you went to the bank this.
Mother
Morning early, before you went to work. What is this, darling, a cross examination?
Ellen Latimer
Something of the sort. Ellen, why didn't you tell me earlier?
Mother
Mr. Hamlin came to the Kingdom for dinner. He said he found a loop, told that the bank would give me a loan after all. And he brought the money with him.
Ellen Latimer
Well, then why didn't you call me?
Mother
The place was jammed. I was busy every minute. I couldn't take time out from the cashier's cage. Please stop asking questions. Mother, I've. I've had a very fine day and I'm nervous.
Ellen Latimer
Well, that's the truth anyway. You are nervous for a fact, Ellen. You're my daughter and I can read you like a book. You. You aren't telling the truth, dear.
Mother
I am telling the truth and I'll prove it. Just wait until I open the back compartment in my purse. Oh, sorry. Zippers. Anyway, they always stick. There. Now, Mother, what's this? Is it a hundred dollar bill or isn't it?
Ellen Latimer
It's a hundred dollar bill, all right. But you didn't get it for from the bank.
Roger Hamlin
In just a moment, hope winds low will be back. Gold is considered more precious than silver. And because it is, we find it hard to understand why silver takes precedence over gold in the military, in insignia of rank in the United States at one time, except for the silver stars of generals worn on epaulets of gold, the color of an Officer's insignia of rank depended on his branch of army service. Infantry officers wore epaulettes of silver with insignia of gold. All other officers wore the opposite. In 1851, all epaulettes were gold with silver in insignia. But majors and second lieutenants had no insignia at all. Except for a difference in size of the epaulet fringe. Between the Civil War and the Spanish American War, most epaulets were abolished. And majors were given gold leaves to indicate their rank. But the poor second lieutenant had to wait for his gold bar until, and believe it or not, 1917. Regardless of the date of establishment, all military insignia have been a source of pride for members of the armed forces of the United States of America. And now back to our story. With hopeling glow.
Ellen Latimer
Ellen's guilty eyes were fixed on her mother's face. She wasn't very good at deception. Yes, her mother could read her like a book. No doubt of that. She tried to think of something plausible. And finally.
Mother
Well, as a matter of fact, you're right. I made up the story about Mr. Hamlin. Made it up out of her clothes. I was afraid you wouldn't take the money if you knew it was given to me by a stranger. A stranger? There's a woman who comes into the tea room. I was very depressed and I told her the whole story. And she loaned me $200 without interest.
Ellen Latimer
Ellen, I don't believe you. Where did you really get the money?
Mother
You've never been so difficult before. I'm telling you the truth. Now eat your drop cakes. And would you like some tea or a glass of milk to go with them?
Ellen Latimer
I don't want any drop cakes and I don't want any tea and I don't want a glass of milk. You've never told a lie in your life, Ellen. That's why I'm so sure. For the last time, where did you get that money? You can't meet my eyes.
Mother
Your face is a confession. A man gave me a bill and he said, would I get any change for 280 out of 10? He said 10, mother. He was out of the shop before I realized that he'd given me a hundred dollar bill instead of a $10 bill. He was stranger. That part's cruel. You must get it back to him somehow.
Ellen Latimer
You must find out where he lives.
Mother
He's only here for a few days. He's staying at the mansion house. And take it back to him at once. It'll save your life, Mother. And you'll be haunted for the rest of your life.
Ellen Latimer
I don't want my life bought at such a price.
Mother
Ellen, take it back to I don't dare face the man now.
Ellen Latimer
Said that this is the Hammond knife. Do you know where he lives?
Mother
Well, he mentioned once that he lived in the Ellsworth apartment.
Ellen Latimer
Well, go to him and tell him what happened. Maybe he'll take you to the Mansion.
Mother
House and explain things to the man. All right, Mother, I'll go. If I weren't a coward, I'd go alone. But I am a coward. Only a coward would have done what I did. But I love you so much.
Ellen Latimer
Ellen Latimer walked all the way to the big apartment house in which Roger Hanlon lived. She kept telling herself that he might not be home. When she rang the bell above his name in the lobby, there was an answering click. She took a self service elevator to his floor. She knocked on his door and the door opened.
Roger Hamlin
Warren.
Ellen Latimer
Ms. Lew.
Roger Hamlin
What are you doing here?
Mother
May I come in?
Ellen Latimer
Certainly.
Mother
I didn't know which way. Then Mother suggested you, if Mrs. Hamlin wouldn't object. Will you do me a favor? It'll mean going out at any place.
Roger Hamlin
There isn't any Mrs. Hamlin. There never has been except my mother and she died 10 years ago. What is the favor of Latin?
Ellen Latimer
So Ellen told his story and Roger Hamlin sat listening with great attention. When Ellen had finished, he smiled.
Roger Hamlin
Of course, I'll go to the Mansion House with you. And I'll explain to this careless rich man that you didn't realize the mistake.
Ellen Latimer
Continue accounting cash. Don't worry.
Roger Hamlin
I'll be very tactful and very convincing. And as for the hundred dollars, I have a bill that'll match his in my wallet. I was planning to have breakfast at the Bluebird and when there was a.
Mother
Loan but the papers to be signed. I can't have the money unless I give my employer a listen.
Roger Hamlin
Oh, yes you can. This is a personal loan for me.
Mother
But I can't accept a loan from you, a stranger.
Ellen Latimer
Not a stranger. A friend.
Roger Hamlin
And one who would like to be a good friend. When you came into the bank today, Nashville Loan, I was close to loving you. And now I've erased the word close. Ellen, please say that you'll accept the money and me along with it.
Ellen Latimer
Pennies from heaven. Hundred dollar bills from Cupid. Well, that's the way things happen sometimes. So you must never be afraid to pray for your miracle.
Mother
It may be waiting for across the.
Ellen Latimer
Street or just around the corner. When Ellen was making change for a slim man who wore black and a collar that was turned backwards, whom she addressed as Padre.
Mother
He told her that he missed her.
Ellen Latimer
Smile and asked what was wrong and told her, after she'd explained her problems, that the day of miracles wasn't past.
Roger Hamlin
And now, here is Hopeland for to tell you more about the Padre.
Ellen Latimer
Yes, you'll meet the Padre again when he says the right word to a young man who's been hearing all the wrong ones. So until then, this is Hope Winslow saying goodbye.
Roger Hamlin
From the Whispering Streets Whispering Streets has come to you through the worldwide facilities of the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service.
Hope Winslow
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Roger Hamlin
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Podcast Summary: "Whispering Streets xx-xx-xx (xxx) - 100 Dollar Bill From Cupid"
Introduction
In this captivating episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Whispering Streets xx-xx-xx (xxx) - 100 Dollar Bill From Cupid," listeners are transported to the nostalgic era of the Golden Age of Radio. The story unfolds in the quaint Bluebird Tea Shop, where everyday struggles intertwine with moments of unexpected generosity and personal revelations. The main characters—Ellen Latimer, her devoted mother, and the enigmatic Roger Hamlin—navigate through themes of sacrifice, desperation, and miraculous intervention.
Main Characters
Plot Overview
1. Daily Life at the Bluebird Tea Shop
The episode begins with light-hearted conversations between Ellen Latimer and her mother about the perfect snack, establishing the setting of the Bluebird Tea Shop—a beloved neighborhood restaurant where families and individuals find comfort. Ellen’s dedication to her job is evident as she handles money meticulously, despite the toll it takes on her both physically and emotionally.
2. Mother's Urgent Need
As the narrative progresses, the audience learns that Ellen's mother is in desperate need of an operation. The financial strain is palpable as they discuss the costs associated with the surgery, revealing the depth of Ellen’s struggles and her mother’s unwavering hope.
3. Seeking Help from Roger Hamlin
Ellen’s mother decides to approach Roger Hamlin at the bank to request a loan. Despite their cordial relationship, bank policies hinder her ability to secure the necessary funds without revealing specific personal details. Roger’s sympathetic demeanor contrasts with the rigid financial regulations, leaving both women feeling disheartened.
4. The Mysterious Transaction
Later that evening, a stranger presents Ellen with a hundred-dollar bill in exchange for what she believes is a ten-dollar bill. This puzzling exchange sets the stage for the episode's central mystery, prompting Ellen to question the significance of this seemingly ordinary act.
5. Confrontation and Revelation
Ellen confronts her mother about the unexpected hundred-dollar bill, leading to a heartfelt and tense conversation. Her mother admits the truth about the stranger’s identity and the true nature of the loan, deepening the emotional complexity between them and highlighting the moral dilemmas faced during desperate times.
6. Resolution and Miracles
Determined to rectify the situation, Ellen seeks out Roger Hamlin once more. This time, Roger reveals his true intentions, offering not just financial assistance but also emotional support. His willingness to help transcends professional boundaries, ultimately facilitating a miracle that restores hope and stability to Ellen and her mother’s lives.
Themes and Insights
The episode delves into the struggles of balancing work and personal responsibilities, the ethical challenges of borrowing and lending money, and the unforeseen ways in which kindness can manifest. It underscores the importance of honesty, the power of community support, and the belief in miracles during times of need.
Conclusion
"100 Dollar Bill From Cupid" is a touching narrative that weaves everyday challenges with extraordinary moments of generosity and compassion. Through its engaging characters and heartfelt storyline, the episode highlights the enduring human spirit and the unexpected ways in which help can arrive when least anticipated. This timeless story serves as a reminder of the importance of hope, integrity, and the impact of small acts of kindness.
Additional Notable Quotes with Timestamps
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key plot points, character developments, and memorable quotes. It provides a clear and engaging overview for those who haven't listened to the episode, ensuring they grasp the emotional and narrative depth of the story.