Whistler 42-11-15 ep 027 Apparition

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Whistler 42-11-15 ep 027 Apparition"

Title: Whistler 42-11-15 ep 027 Apparition
Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Description: Delving into the eerie tales of the Whistler, this episode unravels a haunting story of family secrets, apparitions, and deceit within an old mansion.

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Introduction

The episode opens with a brief advertisement for ZipRecruiter, quickly transitioning into the mysterious world of "The Whistler," a classic radio series that narrates chilling tales of the supernatural and the unknown.

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Setting the Scene

Narrator (00:02 - 02:59): The story is set in an old mansion surrounded by tall, moaning pines. The focal point is Elizabeth Kemper, the elderly mistress of the mansion, whose health deteriorates following the sudden death of her husband, John Kemper. John left his entire estate to Elizabeth, leading to familial tensions as relatives move in over time.

Notable Quote:
Narrator (01:02): "Wait a minute. Have you heard the strange tales of the Whistler?"

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The Apparition of John Kemper

John Kemper (02:59 - 05:50): John introduces himself as the Whistler, a spectral presence who roams the mansion at night. He reveals that he bears secrets and has an unusual story to tell about an apparition haunting the mansion.

Elizabeth Kemper (03:10 - 05:05): Elizabeth experiences nightly visions of her late husband, John, prompting fear and confusion within the household. Bertha Mallory, John's sister, arrives with her daughter Celia, adding to the tension.

Notable Quotes:

• John Kemper (03:10): "I, the Whistler, know many things, for I walk by night."
• Elizabeth Kemper (05:03): "Perhaps it would be best if Celia and I left you."

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Rising Tensions and Supernatural Encounters

As the nights progress, Elizabeth's encounters with the apparition become more intense. Bertha insists that John was wrongfully excluded from the will due to misunderstandings and deceit.

Bertha Mallory (04:03 - 06:35): Bertha claims that John realized his mistake in cutting her off and pleads for Elizabeth to amend the will to grant her the estate, assuring that John's restless spirit will never find peace otherwise.

Notable Quotes:

• Bertha Mallory (04:05): "John was trying to tell me something. Something about you."
• Bertha Mallory (06:35): "John is trying to get a message to Elizabeth about me."

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Suspicion and Investigation

Herbert Wilton, Mary's son, becomes suspicious of the supernatural explanations. He embarks on his own investigation, questioning the validity of the apparitions and uncovering dark secrets about the family's past.

Herbert Wilton (12:00 - 14:31): Herbert confronts Henry Wentworth, Elizabeth's attorney, who reveals that John had severed ties with Bertha following the mysterious suicide of Bertha's husband, raising questions about foul play.

Notable Quotes:

• Herbert Wilton (12:02): "Have you any idea why he cut his sister Bertha off without a dollar?"
• Narrator (14:07): "Herbert Wilton... was familiar with the family for two decades."

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Confrontation with the Apparition

Late at night, the supernatural encounters intensify. John’s apparition demands that Elizabeth amends her will to appease his restless spirit. Elizabeth, torn between fear and sanity, agrees to alter her will under threat of eternal torment.

Notable Quotes:

• John Kemper (16:03): "I made a great mistake in life. I hated my sister, but I know all things now."
• Elizabeth Kemper (16:18): "Yes. Yes. I understand."

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The Unraveling of the Mystery

Herbert’s investigation leads him to discover that both John and Bertha’s husband were victims of foul play, poisoned with sleeping tablets bought by Bertha. This revelation exposes Bertha’s motive to inherit the estate and manipulate the apparitions to achieve her goal.

Climactic Revelation (26:00 - 27:45): Herbert confronts Bertha, revealing that she orchestrated the deaths to secure the inheritance. Bertha's impersonation of John through the butler, Higgins, is exposed, leading to her imminent downfall as the police arrive.

Notable Quotes:

• Herbert Wilton (26:33): "Bertha hired Higgins to impersonate John."
• Bertha Mallory (26:49): "I can't be honest."

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Conclusion and Resolution

Bertha is arrested, and the truth about the murders comes to light. Elizabeth and the other family members are freed from the torment of the apparitions, allowing John’s spirit to finally rest. The episode concludes with a return to the classic Whistler narrative style, hinting at future tales.

Notable Quotes:

• John Kemper (28:36): "John never wanted his will changed. And for good reason. He really knew the truth."
• Narrator (29:28): "CBS has presented the Whistler..."

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Deception and Greed: Bertha Mallory's manipulation underscores the destructive power of greed and deceit within familial relationships.

2. Supernatural as Metaphor: The apparitions symbolize unresolved guilt and the haunting nature of past wrongdoings.

3. Justice and Redemption: Herbert's quest for the truth serves as a path to justice, ensuring that the wrongdoers are held accountable.

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Notable Quotes with Attribution and Timestamps

• John Kemper (03:10): "I, the Whistler, know many things, for I walk by night."

• Elizabeth Kemper (05:03): "Perhaps it would be best if Celia and I left you."

• Bertha Mallory (04:05): "John was trying to tell me something. Something about you."

• Herbert Wilton (12:02): "Have you any idea why he cut his sister Bertha off without a dollar?"

• John Kemper (16:03): "I made a great mistake in life. I hated my sister, but I know all things now."

• Herbert Wilton (26:33): "Bertha hired Higgins to impersonate John."

• John Kemper (28:36): "John never wanted his will changed. And for good reason. He really knew the truth."

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Final Thoughts

"Whistler 42-11-15 ep 027 Apparition" masterfully blends suspense, mystery, and supernatural elements to craft a compelling narrative reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio. Through its intricate plot and well-developed characters, the episode explores timeless themes of trust, betrayal, and the quest for truth.

For listeners who enjoy classic radio dramas with a twist of the paranormal, this episode offers a captivating experience that holds true to the essence of old-time radio storytelling.

Transcript

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[Elizabeth Kemper]

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[Elizabeth Kemper]

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[Narrator]

Wait a minute. Have you heard the strange tales of the Whistler?

[John Kemper]

I'm the Whistler.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John was here in his room. I saw him and talked to him. He had a message for me. And while he was here, the room was filled with the odor of musty roses.

[Narrator]

Another Sunday night and again CBS presents the Whistler.

[John Kemper]

I, the Whistler, know many things, for I walk by night. I know many strange tales, many secrets hidden in the hearts of men and women who have stepped into the shadows. And so I tell you tonight the unusual story of apparition. In the midst of a circle of tall moaning pines spreads an old mansion. On the second floor, a low light burns in a large bedroom, the bedroom of Elizabeth Kemper, the elderly mistress of the mansion. Mrs. Kemper's husband, John, died suddenly a year ago and left his entire estate to his wife, Elizabeth. Shortly after John's death, Elizabeth brought her husband's sister Bertha and Bertha's daughter Celia to live with her. Since John's death, Elizabeth's health has gradually failed and she has taken to her bed. In the meantime, Elizabeth's only sister, Mary, has come to live in the great house and Mary's son Herbert. Now, long past midnight, Elizabeth tosses in.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Her bed and mumbles, john, John, what is it? What do you want? Why don't you say it?

[John Kemper]

Suddenly, Elizabeth's door bursts open and Bertha moves into the room and stands beside the bed.

[Bertha Mallory]

Elizabeth. Elizabeth. Elizabeth. It's Bertha.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, Bertha. Oh, yes. Bertha.

[Bertha Mallory]

Why did you scream?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Scream? Did I scream?

[Bertha Mallory]

Yes. Just as I came in the room.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

You must have frightened me.

[Bertha Mallory]

Were you dreaming?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

No, I. I don't think so, but I don't know. I thought John was here.

[Bertha Mallory]

John? You thought John was here?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Standing there beside the bed.

[Bertha Mallory]

Elizabeth, I saw him, too, just a moment ago.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What?

[Bertha Mallory]

In my room.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, but that's nonsense. Why should he always appear to you?

[Bertha Mallory]

I'm his sister.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, of course.

[Bertha Mallory]

John was trying to tell me something. Something about you.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What?

[Bertha Mallory]

He was trying to tell me that you should listen to him.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Listen to him?

[Bertha Mallory]

Something about the property.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What about the property?

[Bertha Mallory]

He says he made a mistake.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Mistake?

[Bertha Mallory]

He says he wasn't killed accidentally. He did it deliberately. He committed suicide.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Suicide? Why should he have done that?

[Bertha Mallory]

He hasn't explained that. But he says now he knows the truth about everything. He knows that his reason for hating me and cutting me off in his will was unfounded, and he's sorry. He's been trying to reach you, but you aren't respected.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

You claim you've seen John every night since the day he died.

[Bertha Mallory]

I have, Elizabeth. I swear I have.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I've seen him many times in my dreams. But why doesn't he tell me what he wants?

[Bertha Mallory]

Some night, Elizabeth, John will reach you in your waking moments. Then you'll believe me.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I can't understand it. He didn't like you and he told me so. Why should he change now?

[Bertha Mallory]

Perhaps it would be best if Celia and I left you.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Why should you want to leave all of a sudden?

[Bertha Mallory]

You have your own assistant, her son, Herbert. You won't be alone.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I only knew what John was trying to say to me.

[Bertha Mallory]

I've told you what he's been saying to me.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Mother, Is anything wrong?

[Herbert Wilton]

We heard someone scream. At least, I thought I did.

[Bertha Mallory]

No, nothing's wrong. Go back to bed.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Elizabeth. Elizabeth, what is it? What's what? Mary? Oh, dear me. I heard someone scream. What was it? Are you all right? Yes, Mary. I had a nightmare, that's all. Oh, well, I. I was worried. Better go back to bed, all of you. I'll be all right. Yes, yes. Come along, every. I'll see you in the morning. But, Mother, why do you keep frightening Aunt Elizabeth by telling her about Uncle John?

[Bertha Mallory]

I'm not frightening her. She should know the truth.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

But she is frightened. Why? She's getting worse and worse. Are you sure you have seen Uncle Raleigh?

[Bertha Mallory]

Do you dare suggest that I'm lying? Is that what you mean, Celia?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

No. No, Mother. I didn't Mean that? Honest.

[Bertha Mallory]

That's better. And don't you ever say such a thing again.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

But why doesn't he appear to Aunt Elizabeth? She only dreams about him.

[Bertha Mallory]

That's something that can't be answered. There are those who are gifted with the powers to see those who have departed. See them and talk with them. I'm one of those so gifted. Do you understand?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, Mother.

[Bertha Mallory]

John is trying to get a message to Elizabeth about me. And because he finds it difficult to reach her, he's chosen me as the medium.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What is the message?

[Bertha Mallory]

He left me nothing in his will because he hated me and thought I hated him. But you did. I did not. It was his imagination. But now he's learned the truth. Now he knows I had nothing but his best interests at heart. He's trying to tell Elizabeth to leave all the estate to me. And he will continue to return to this house until his mission is accomplished. Then his soul can rest in peace.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I'm frightened, Mother. I don't want to stay here another day. I can't stand it.

[Bertha Mallory]

You stay here until I'm ready to leave. Do you hear me?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, Mother, I hear.

[Bertha Mallory]

Now stop this nonsense and go to bed.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, Mother. I'm sorry.

[Bertha Mallory]

You'd better be.

[John Kemper]

In another part of the great house. Herbert is talking with his mother, Mary, Elizabeth's own sister.

[Herbert Wilton]

Now, Mother, get hold of yourself.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, I'm terribly frightened, Herbert.

[Herbert Wilton]

Why should you be frightened? Nothing can harm you. What have you to be afraid of?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, there's something awful in this house. I can feel it. I don't want to stay here any longer. We must leave before it's too late.

[Herbert Wilton]

I'll admit that strange things are going on, but I'm not ready to leave here. Not just yet.

[Bertha Mallory]

We don't belong here.

[Herbert Wilton]

Elizabeth is your own sister.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I don't think John wants us here.

[John Kemper]

Do you really believe that?

[Herbert Wilton]

John's spirit is walking around this place every night?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What else?

[Herbert Wilton]

Then why doesn't he say what he's trying to say and get it over?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Well, I can't stay here much longer. I'll lose my mind.

[Herbert Wilton]

I can imagine. John's not wanting Bertha here since he stipulated in his will that Aunt Elizabeth must never give Bertha a dollar of the estate. What's he got against you?

[John Kemper]

Nothing.

[Herbert Wilton]

He didn't say that Elizabeth couldn't leave you a part of it.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

All I want to do is get out of this house.

[Herbert Wilton]

Well, I don't feel that way about it. Why should you walk out and leave everything to Bertha?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Well, that's why? John's staying around here. He doesn't want anyone here.

[Herbert Wilton]

Well, ghost or no ghost, I'm not walking out at a time like this.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Then. Then I will. I'm leaving here tomorrow.

[Herbert Wilton]

Oh, no. No, you're not leaving. We're both staying until. Until Aunt Elizabeth makes her will. You're staying here whether you like it or not. You hear?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, Herbert. But nothing good will come of it. I'm convinced of that.

[Mary Wilton]

No worries.

[Herbert Wilton]

We'll see about that. Good night, Mother.

[John Kemper]

An hour later, Mary has finally dropped off to sleep. Then, as the clock strikes three, a figure in white slips into Mary's room and stands beside the bed. Slowly, Mary opens her eyes and stifles a scream.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Who is it? What do you want?

[Bertha Mallory]

I want to talk to you, Mary. I have a message for you.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

A message?

[Bertha Mallory]

Yes. John is here, standing beside me.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I don't see anyone. He is here. What is the message?

[Bertha Mallory]

John says that Elizabeth is planning to leave the estate to you. But he's learned the truth. He knows that his dislike for me was unfounded. He wants the estate left to me because it's rightfully mine. And he'll never be able to rest in peace until that is accomplished.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I don't want it. I don't want any part of this.

[Bertha Mallory]

If you want to escape this torment, you must convince your sister that John made a mistake. If you accept any part of it, John will never let you rest. Do you understand? Yes.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, I understand.

[Bertha Mallory]

Very well. We leave you now. Good night.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Elizabeth. Elizabeth, wake up. What? Wake up. Oh, Mary, what's wrong? You're shaking like a leaf. He. He was in my room. Who? John. He was in my room. Mary, what are you saying? He had a message. He said you were planning to leave the estate to me according to his will. But he made a mistake about Bertha. He wants you to leave it to her so he can rest in peace. Mary, are you out of your mind? No, no, you must believe me. I don't want any part of the estate. Oh, please promise me. Leave it to Bertha and have done with it. I refuse to accept it. Get control of yourself. Mary, I'm leaving here in the morning. I'm frightened. And if you had any sense, you'd leave too. If you stay here, you'll go mad. Very well, Mary. If that's what you call gratitude. If you can go. Oh, I'm sorry, Elizabeth Blatt. I won't remain another night. Are you sure? Are you sure you saw John? Well, no. No. But he was there in my room. Did you Talk with him? No, no, that is, I. Then how do you know he was there? Bertha told me he was there. Bertha? Was she there, too? Oh, yes. She told me what he wanted. He said he couldn't reach you. Why should John appear to everyone but me? I don't know. But I know he was there. I could sense it. I tell you, there was someone in the room with Bertha. It must have been John. Oh, let Bertha have the estate, or something terrible will happen to all of us. Oh, please, Elizabeth. Go to bed, Mary. We'll talk about it tomorrow. Yes, Elizabeth.

[John Kemper]

Next day, Herbert goes into town and pays a visit to Henry Wentworth, Elizabeth's attorney. Wentworth was also John's attorney for many years. Years? And was familiar with the family for two decades.

[Herbert Wilton]

Mr. Wentworth, you drew John Kemper's will?

[Narrator]

Yes, I did.

[Herbert Wilton]

Have you any idea why he cut his sister Bertha off without a dollar?

[Narrator]

No. But in the last five years, John turned against Bertha. Turned against her? Violently.

[Mary Wilton]

Why?

[Narrator]

I don't really know. She was his only sister and he had no brothers. It was very strange.

[Herbert Wilton]

What happened to Bertha's husband?

[Narrator]

Well, he died about five years ago. Committed suicide. He worked for John at one time. Then John set him up in a business of his own. But he went to the wall in the crash of 29. Lost every penny, just couldn't take it. So he killed himself?

[Herbert Wilton]

He left nothing.

[Narrator]

Nothing but an insurance policy to his wife, Bertha. Didn't amount to much. $5,000, I think.

[Herbert Wilton]

Were John and Bertha's husband on good terms?

[Narrator]

Apparently the best of friends.

[Herbert Wilton]

How did Bertha's husband die?

[Narrator]

Took poison overdose of sleeping tablets.

[Mary Wilton]

I see.

[Narrator]

But from the day Bertha's husband died, John, her brother, seemed to turn against Bertha and shortly changed his will, cutting Bertha off. I was the only one who knew about it until the will was read.

[Herbert Wilton]

Have you any idea why he changed the will?

[Narrator]

No. Whatever it was none of my business.

[Herbert Wilton]

Yes, well, thank you, Mr. Wentworth. I. I appreciate your telling me this.

[Mary Wilton]

Good.

[John Kemper]

Then Herbert pays another visit. A visit to Dr. Martin, formerly John Kemper's physician. Dr. Martin is at first reluctant to talk, but finally answers a few questions.

[Herbert Wilton]

Doctor, you were John Kemper's physician for many years?

[John Kemper]

Yes, that's right.

[Herbert Wilton]

Was there anything wrong with him?

[John Kemper]

You mean, was he unbalanced?

[Herbert Wilton]

No, no. Did he have any severe ailments?

[Mary Wilton]

Well, no.

[John Kemper]

The last year or so, he seemed to change considerably, though. Became a bit morose.

[Herbert Wilton]

Anything wrong with his heart?

[John Kemper]

Yes and no.

[Herbert Wilton]

Yes and no.

[John Kemper]

Well, he began to suffer from severe headaches. Took to using a lot of Aspirin. What's too much?

[Herbert Wilton]

If anything's bad, he was killed in a car wreck.

[John Kemper]

Yes. He'd been to the city and was driving back home late at night. Drove off into the ditch.

[Herbert Wilton]

Did you attend him?

[John Kemper]

I saw the body shortly after the wreck. He'd been dead about an hour. Badly smashed up.

[Herbert Wilton]

Was it his heart?

[John Kemper]

Could have been, but I. I think he went to sleep at the wheel.

[Herbert Wilton]

Was there an autopsy?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

No.

[John Kemper]

It was obvious how he died. His skull had been crushed in.

[Herbert Wilton]

Who had he visited in the city on business? I don't know.

[John Kemper]

I never thought about it.

[Herbert Wilton]

Where is John Kemper?

[John Kemper]

Buried in the family vault at the edge of his own estate. Didn't you know that?

[Herbert Wilton]

Oh, yes, yes, yes, I'd forgotten. Well, good day, Doctor, and thanks for the information.

[John Kemper]

Then later that night, the household prepares to settle down to sleep. One by one, the lights go out in the various rooms. Now only that in Elizabeth's room remains.

[Mary Wilton]

Will there be anything else, ma'?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Am? No, no, Higgins. That'll be all. Has everyone gone to bed?

[Higgins]

Oh, yes, ma'.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Am.

[Mary Wilton]

They've all retired. Is the milk warm enough?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Good night, Higgins.

[Mary Wilton]

Good night, ma'. Am.

[Higgins]

I hope you rest well tonight.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Thank you, Higgins.

[John Kemper]

The moon bathes the estate in its eerie glow. The big clock strikes off the hour. Then in the distance, there is the howl of a dog. A mournful howl of impending doom. John's dog, crying in its loneliness. Across the lawn from the family vault walks a haggard figure in the moonlight. A figure with long white hair walking toward the house. In a few moments later, the weird figure appears in Mary's room, stands in the shadows and points at Mary.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What do you want? Who are you?

[Higgins]

I am John.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John. Oh, good heaven.

[Higgins]

I've come back to talk to you. You must hear me.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I. I hear you.

[Higgins]

I made a great mistake in life. I hated my sister, but I know all things now. Bertha's a good woman. I'm doomed to walk this place without rest until I've made amends. Do you understand?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, I understand.

[Higgins]

If Elizabeth refuses to listen to my pleas and leaves his estate to you, you will never rest a moment under this roof, for I can never leave. It rightfully belongs to Bertha and to her. It must go.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I don't want it. I don't want any part of it. I won't stay here. I promise. Just let me alone.

[Higgins]

I will if you and your son leave here at once.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

We will. We will. I. Oh. Where are you, John? Are you here? John?

[John Kemper]

Mary gasps and suddenly falls back on her pillow. For Mary has fainted dead away from the darkened stairway. The great clock chimes out the hour. 3 o'.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Clock.

[John Kemper]

Elizabeth, eyes closed but still awake, senses a presence and slowly opens her eyes. Standing close beside her is the white haired figure, its face hidden in the shadows.

[Mary Wilton]

No.

[Higgins]

No, Elizabeth. Don't turn on the light.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Who. Who is it?

[Higgins]

You wouldn't want to see me. I've been out there too long.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John. John.

[Higgins]

At last I've reached through to you.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, I must be dreaming again. I.

[Mary Wilton]

Not this time.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Why. Why are you whispering, John?

[Higgins]

I am not whispering, Elizabeth. Can't you hear me?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, I can hear you. I. What is that odor?

[Higgins]

Odor?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. A strange odor. Like. Like the smell of flowers. A musty odor of roses.

[Higgins]

Why? I have just come from the vault.

[Mary Wilton]

Elizabeth.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John. John, what is it? What do you want?

[Higgins]

You're going to make your will tomorrow.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes? Yes.

[Higgins]

Only you can right the wrong I have done.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Wrong?

[Higgins]

My father left this estate to me with the understanding that I should leave it to burn.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, I know.

[Higgins]

I suspected her of wrongdoing and cut her off. And instructed you to do so.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes.

[Higgins]

But now I know that I was wrong. You must leave the estate to her. You must right my wrongs so that I can go on to my rest.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes. John.

[Higgins]

If you fail to do this, I shall be doomed to walk this place throughout eternity. And all those who come here shall not know a moment's peace.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, I understand. John.

[Higgins]

If you fail me, you too shall suffer my torment with me forever.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, I. I'll do it. I'll do as you say. Only John.

[Higgins]

Your heart.

[Mary Wilton]

Elizabeth.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, I.

[Higgins]

You haven't much time, Elizabeth. You will be joining me soon.

[Mary Wilton]

I know.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John. Where are you? I promised, John. I promise.

[John Kemper]

Elizabeth clutches at her heart, gasping for breath. A few moments pass and she revives sufficiently to reach for the stimulant on the nightstand. She pours a dose, and as she swallows it, she glances out the window over the moonlit grounds. Across the lawn moves the white haired figure gliding toward the family vault at the edge of the estate.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Johnson.

[Bertha Mallory]

John.

[John Kemper]

Elizabeth drops the glass and falls to the floor. A few seconds later, Bertha hurries into the room.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Elizabeth. Elizabeth. Mary.

[Bertha Mallory]

Herbert.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What happened? Mother, Hurry. Good heavens. Is she all right? Elizabeth. Eliz. Oh, she's dead. She's dead.

[Mary Wilton]

I'm screaming.

[Bertha Mallory]

Must have been Elizabeth had another attack.

[Herbert Wilton]

She's still breathing.

[Bertha Mallory]

Put her on the bed.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

There's her medicine. I got another glass.

[Bertha Mallory]

You stay here, Mary. I'll get the glass from the bathroom.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What do you suppose happened to her? Maybe. Maybe it was.

[Herbert Wilton]

Was what?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I. I don't know.

[Mary Wilton]

What's wrong with you, Mother?

[Herbert Wilton]

You're white as a sheet. Emma, what are you trying to say?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I saw it, too. Saw what?

[Bertha Mallory]

What did you see?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I saw him. John. He was in my room a while ago. I talked to him.

[Bertha Mallory]

You talked to him?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, and he talked to me. I heard him and I saw him.

[Mary Wilton]

What did he say?

[Herbert Wilton]

Stop whimpering and tell us.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

He said. He said.

[Mary Wilton]

Mother.

[John Kemper]

Mother, stop it.

[Mary Wilton]

Stop it.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, I won't stay. I won't stay.

[Mary Wilton]

I won't come back here.

[John Kemper]

Grab her, Singer.

[Bertha Mallory]

Elizabeth's coming, too.

[Herbert Wilton]

Aunt Elizabeth.

[Mary Wilton]

Aunt Elizabeth.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, but I.

[Herbert Wilton]

You're all right now. Just take it easy.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. Yes, I'm all right. What's wrong with Mary?

[Bertha Mallory]

She says she saw John and talked to him.

[Herbert Wilton]

I think she's imagining things.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

No, no, she isn't imagining things. I. I know. I saw him, too. He was here. He talked to me.

[Herbert Wilton]

Oh, now look at Elizabeth.

[Mary Wilton]

The whole thing is.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

No, no, no. He was here. It was no dream. I saw him walk through the garden toward the boat. When? It can't be very long ago. There was a strange, sickly odor in the room all the while he was here. It smelled like musty roses.

[Herbert Wilton]

Be quiet, Mother.

[Bertha Mallory]

Now maybe you believe what I've been telling you.

[Mary Wilton]

What did he say?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

It was about his will and my will. And he talked about Bertha.

[Bertha Mallory]

About me?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. He said he was wrong about you. Wants to make things right through me. He knew I intended to make my will tomorrow, and he told me just what to do. Yes, that's what he said. To mate you.

[Herbert Wilton]

Why, this is the strangest thing I've ever encountered. Why should he talk to you?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

He did, I tell you. And Elizabeth must do what he wants, otherwise something will happen.

[Herbert Wilton]

What will happen?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Well, I. I don't know. I want you to call Mr. Wentworth, the lawyer, and have him here first thing in the morning. I want to draw my will, as John tells me.

[Herbert Wilton]

Very well. I think I'll have a look around the grounds. Never go back to sleep now anyway. So. Good night, Aunt Elizabeth.

[John Kemper]

Herbert wanders about the grounds for a while and finally goes to Higgins, the butler, and after some persuasion, obtains the keys to the family vault. The next morning, the lawyer Wentworth visits Elizabeth in her room.

[Narrator]

Well, how are you this morning, Elizabeth?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Much better, Mr. Wentworth.

[Narrator]

You had a bad night?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, I guess I had another attack. So, Mr. Wentworth, I want to draw up my will. I should have done it long ago, but. Well, Something held me back.

[Narrator]

I see. Well, I'll take down the data and have it typed, then bring it back for you to sign. I'll be in court all day, probably through the evening, so I'll have to come around 11 tonight.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Very well. As soon as possible.

[Mary Wilton]

Good.

[Narrator]

Now, let's have the particulars.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes. To my sister, Mary Wilton, I leave the five room cottage in Danbury. To my nephew, Herbert Wilton, I leave $1,000 in cash.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

And to my husband's sister, Bertha Mallory, I leave all other property, personal and real, amounting to some $400,000.

[Bertha Mallory]

What, please?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Amounting to some $400,000 to my late husband's wishes.

[Narrator]

What do you mean? John stipulated that you leave not a penny to Bertha.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John hath changed his mind.

[Narrator]

When did he change his mind?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Since his death.

[Narrator]

Don't you think we'd better postpone this until you feel better?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I want my will drawn just as I have told you.

[Narrator]

What do you mean by saying John has changed his mind?

[Mary Wilton]

How could he?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

He told me so last night.

[Mary Wilton]

You know what you're saying.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, I saw John. I talked to him. He was wrong in his attitude toward Bertha.

[Narrator]

This is.

[Herbert Wilton]

This is ridiculous.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I want it done as I say.

[Narrator]

Very well. I'll draw it up this way.

[Mary Wilton]

But I certainly think that you think I'm insane.

[Narrator]

Since you bring it up, yes, I do.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

So did I at first, but I'm not. I'll be expecting you around 11 tonight, Mr. Wentworth.

[Narrator]

Yes. Yes, of course. I'll be here.

[John Kemper]

Now. It is shortly after 11 the same night. The lawyer has returned to the will and Elizabeth has called her three relatives to her room.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Very well, Mr. Wentworth. It has drawn the way I want it.

[Narrator]

You mean as John wants it?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I mean just that. I'm leaving the property that was mine before I married John, the small cottage to you, Mary, and $1,000 to Herbert. All else I am leaving according to John's directions to you, Bertha. That's the way John wants it and that's the way it shall be.

[Bertha Mallory]

You must do as you think best.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I'm doing as John wishes. Hand me the pen, Wentworth. There you are. And I hope you all understand I don't.

[Bertha Mallory]

Thank you, Elizabeth.

[Herbert Wilton]

Well, now that you've got it, Bertha.

[Mary Wilton]

What good is it going to do you?

[Bertha Mallory]

What do you mean?

[Herbert Wilton]

How much chance do you think you'll have to use it? What happiness do you think it'll bring you?

[Bertha Mallory]

More than it would you. Isn't it rightfully mine?

[Herbert Wilton]

Is it?

[Bertha Mallory]

That's the way John wanted it.

[Herbert Wilton]

Oh, no, it is. It's the way you want it.

[Bertha Mallory]

I had nothing to do with it.

[Herbert Wilton]

John made a will. He's never wanted to change.

[Bertha Mallory]

Elizabeth knows better than that.

[Herbert Wilton]

Elizabeth knows nothing of the kind.

[Bertha Mallory]

This is my house now, and the sooner you leave, the better.

[Herbert Wilton]

You'll be leaving, sir, sooner than I will. You and your spooks. You don't believe in ghosts and you never saw one.

[Bertha Mallory]

I saw John. Night after night, everyone thought.

[Herbert Wilton]

Everyone but me, because I'm not a dump.

[Bertha Mallory]

Your own mother, Mary saw him and talked to him.

[Herbert Wilton]

John is dead in his coffin out there in the vault. I saw him.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

But I did see him.

[Bertha Mallory]

So did I.

[Herbert Wilton]

You wouldn't know if you did see him.

[Mary Wilton]

We would.

[Bertha Mallory]

We've seen him.

[Herbert Wilton]

Then turn around. Turn around, all of you, and look.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

John.

[Mary Wilton]

Good Lord, Is that John?

[Herbert Wilton]

Is it?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Yes, yes.

[Herbert Wilton]

Take off your wig.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Higgins.

[Herbert Wilton]

Yes, the butler. There's your spook.

[Mary Wilton]

I'm sorry, ma', am, I.

[Herbert Wilton]

You can go, Higgins. I'll explain everything.

[Mary Wilton]

Yes.

[Herbert Wilton]

Bertha hired Higgins to impersonate John.

[Mary Wilton]

That's a lie.

[Herbert Wilton]

Higgins would never have done if he'd known about the murders. I trapped him into it. He confessed everything.

[Bertha Mallory]

Murders?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What do you mean?

[Herbert Wilton]

I got wise to the whole thing. I investigated the whole story about Bertha's husband and John's accidental death. They were both murdered.

[John Kemper]

You're lying.

[Herbert Wilton]

Antibiotics. Exhumed and examined. They both died of an overdose of sleeping tablets. The very same, purchased by Bertha at a certain drugstore.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

He's crazy. He's crazy.

[Bertha Mallory]

I can't be honest.

[Herbert Wilton]

He put the tablet in her husband's aspirin bottle. She was the one John visited that night. He had the wreck. She must have drugged him. That's why he went to sleep at the wheel.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

I didn't. I didn't.

[Herbert Wilton]

She killed her husband for his insurance and John cut her off on his will because he suspected that she killed her husband.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

It's a lie. A lie.

[Herbert Wilton]

John never wanted his will changed. I have proof of the whole thing. And the police are waiting outside now. You haven't a chance, Milthorpe. You're guilty.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

The police.

[Herbert Wilton]

Oh, what good will all this do you? Where is your fortune now? They'll hang you.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, yes. Yes, I did. I did it. I don't know why, but I did it. I gave him the tablet.

[Herbert Wilton]

Did Higgins know that?

[Elizabeth Kemper]

No. No, he didn't know. I. Bertha. She's fainted. Mother.

[Narrator]

No, she hasn't fainted.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

What's wrong with her?

[Narrator]

She's dead.

[Elizabeth Kemper]

Oh, Mother. Oh, Mother. Hand me that will, Mr. Wentworth. I want to draw a new one in the morning.

[John Kemper]

Well, there you are. That's the story. John never wanted his will changed. And for good reason. He really knew the truth. But wait a minute. How did you figure this one out, Herbert? You didn't really have those bodies exhumed, did you?

[Herbert Wilton]

I didn't have them exhumed. And if I had, there would have been no traces of sleeping tablets left and there were no police waiting outside. I was bluffing, working on pure hypothesis.

[Mary Wilton]

But it did work.

[John Kemper]

Yes, it worked, Herbert. And it afforded me a very nice story indeed. Thank you, Herbert.

[Mary Wilton]

Your work.

[Narrator]

CBS has presented the Whistler. Original music for this production was composed and conducted by Wilbur Hatch. The Whistler is written and directed by J. Donald Wilson and originates from Columbia Square in Hollywood.

[John Kemper]

Next week, same time I, the Whistler, will return to tell you another weird tale.

[Bertha Mallory]

Good night.

[Narrator]

This is the Columbia Broadcasting System.