Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Hasty Will

Summary

Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Hasty Will – Detailed Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Nero Wolfe
• Host/Author: Adam Graham
• Episode: Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Hasty Will
• Release Date: November 12, 2024

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Introduction

In the episode titled "The Case of the Hasty Will," host Adam Graham delves into an intriguing adventure featuring the renowned detective Nero Wolfe, portrayed by Sidney Greenstreet, and his ever-resourceful assistant, Archie Goodwin. Set against the backdrop of Wolfe's iconic New York City brownstone, this episode presents a complex case involving a suspicious will, forged letters, and family betrayal.

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Plot Overview

The story commences with an urgent phone call from John Blake seeking Nero Wolfe's expertise. [04:04] Archie Goodwin answers the call, directing Mr. Blake to Wolfe, who amusingly claims to be "up in the plant room with the orchids." This introductory exchange sets the tone for the unfolding mystery.

John Blake's Proposition: Mr. Blake arrives promptly, presenting a short, typewritten will and a sealed letter intended for his estranged brother, Hillary Brake. He emphasizes the need for discretion, selecting Wolfe for his impartiality and lack of personal connections. Despite the modest fee of $1,000, Wolfe accepts the case, prompting Archie to jest about assisting in poisoning Mr. Blake's great-grandmother due to their tight finances [04:58].

Unraveling the Mystery: Archie begins investigating, uncovering that Mr. Blake's daughter, Anita, is deeply concerned about her father's disappearance. [10:04] Wolfe instructs Archie to meet Anita, revealing further complexities surrounding the case, including Mr. Blake's estranged relationship with his brother Hillary, who recently returned from Australia after 25 years [07:22].

Discovery of the Body: As the investigation progresses, a body matching Mr. Blake's description is found at the East River docks, accompanied by his typewritten will and hat bearing his initials [14:05]. The evidence initially suggests suicide, but inconsistencies arise when handwriting analysis reveals similarities between Mr. Blake's and Hillary's writing styles [24:10].

Confrontation and Revelation: In a climactic gathering at Wolfe's office, tensions escalate as Wilbur Martin, Anita's fiancé, confronts the detectives, accusing both Hillary and Mr. Blake of embezzlement and murder [27:04]. Wolfe meticulously dissects the evidence, revealing that the recent letters purportedly written by Hillary were actually forged by Mr. Blake to cover his embezzlement schemes [28:07]. The discovery of forged handwriting and the manipulation of wills culminates in the arrest of Mr. Blake and Anita as accomplices [29:12].

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Key Characters

• Nero Wolfe ([04:15] - [31:45]): The brilliant, eccentric detective known for his love of orchids and indolent demeanor.

• Archie Goodwin ([04:04] - [31:45]): Wolfe's witty and proactive assistant who often serves as the detective's eyes and ears on the ground.

• John Blake ([04:20] - [29:26]): The distressed client whose suspicious disappearance propels the investigation.

• Anita Blake ([11:03] - [29:20]): John Blake's concerned daughter, engaged to Wilbur Martin, whose perspectives add depth to the family's turmoil.

• Wilbur Martin ([12:18] - [29:26]): Anita's fiancé, who becomes increasingly suspicious and confrontational as the plot thickens.

• Inspector Kramer ([19:24] - [29:26]): The local police inspector collaborating with Wolfe and Archie to unravel the case.

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Notable Quotes

1. Archie Goodwin on the Urgency of the Case:

   • "That's fine, Mr. Blake. I'll just call him." [04:04]

2. Nero Wolfe's Dry Humor:

   • "Confound you, Archie, nothing but business all the time. What's the problem?" [04:55]

3. Archie on the Financial Strain:

   • "Considering our bank balance, I'll help him poison his great grandmother." [04:58]

4. Wolfe's Deductive Insight:

   • "I want you to look into the affairs of the Plymouth Building and Loan Company. See what you can learn about the actual stability of the company." [25:09]

5. Climactic Accusation by Wilbur:

   • "I know what I'm talking about." [26:56]

6. Wolfe's Conclusion on Forgery:

   • "The recent letters are not in the same handwriting. They were poorly forged by John in 1948." [28:43]

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Investigative Techniques and Insights

Handwriting Analysis: A pivotal element in the episode is the examination of handwriting. Inspector Kramer reveals that while the will and letter mimic John Blake's handwriting, the stylistic similarities with Hillary's old letters suggest forgery [24:10]. Wolfe's keen observation leads to the revelation that the letters dated 1948, attributed to Hillary, were actually penned by John Blake [28:43].

Financial Motives: The underlying motive revolves around embezzlement. Wilbur Martin uncovers that John Blake had siphoned funds from the Plymouth Building and Loan Company. To conceal his crimes, Blake orchestrated a suicide narrative, forging letters to mislead investigations [25:34].

Psychological Manipulation: Blake's creation of a new will and the sealed letter indicates a calculated effort to manipulate legal outcomes and familial relationships, showcasing his desperation to cover his financial misdeeds [07:09].

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Conclusion

Nero Wolfe, with his unparalleled intellect, unravels the intricate web of deceit spun by John Blake. The forgery of letters, manipulation of legal documents, and the attempt to frame Anita as an accomplice highlight the depths of Blake's criminal actions. Wolfe's strategic questioning and attention to detail expose the truth, leading to the arrest of both John Blake and Anita Blake for their roles in the embezzlement scheme [29:12].

The episode concludes with Wolfe reflecting on the flaws in criminal planning and commendations for Inspector Kramer's cooperation, reinforcing the themes of justice and meticulous investigation that underpin the Nero Wolfe series [30:18].

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Final Thoughts

"The Case of the Hasty Will" masterfully blends classic detective elements with compelling character dynamics. Adam Graham's portrayal of the dialogue and suspense maintains the essence of Rex Stout's original creations while offering fresh perspectives and modern twists. Notable is the intricate plotting that keeps listeners engaged, making it a standout episode in the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio series.

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Notable Highlights:

• Strategic Use of Handwriting Evidence: Demonstrates the critical role of forensic analysis in detective work.
• Complex Family Dynamics: Adds emotional depth and motive to the characters' actions.
• Wolfe's Methodical Approach: Showcases the detective's reliance on logic and evidence over assumption.

For enthusiasts of classic detective tales and fans of Nero Wolfe, this episode offers an enriching auditory experience that honors the legacy while introducing captivating new narratives.

Transcript

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. If you have a comment, go ahead and send it to me. Box13REAT detectives.net Be sure to cast your vote for the show on Podcast alley. That's at podcastalley.greatdetectives.net and you can feel free to give us a call. 208-991-4783 well, before we do get started, I want to let you know about Audible. If you struggle to find time to read, Audible is a great service for you as you are able to listen to audiobooks whenever it's convenient for you. And whether you want to listen to a mystery or you want to take a listen to a topic that you're concerned about. Whether it's economics, politics, theology, science, or nearly anything else, Audible brings a world of great books right to your MB3 player. You get one free audiobook per month with your Audible membership, as well as a discount on any additional audio entertainment you want to get from Audible. You can try Audible out free for 14 days and get a free audiobook by going to audiblepodcast.com Old Time Radio. Be sure to listen after our show, where we have some more exciting news about Rogues Gallery that we will share with you. But let's get into today's adventure, the Case of the Hasty Will.

[Geico Advertiser]

How do you feel when you switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance? It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says Happy Friday. Then you check your phone Quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So, yes, Happy Friday, random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday indeed.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yep.

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Switching and saving with geico. Feels just like that. Get more with Geico.

[NBC Symphony Announcer]

Free chimes mean good times on NBC. You're invited every Saturday over most of these NBC stations to a one hour concert by the renowned NBC Symphony. Tomorrow's symphony performance features Metropolitan Opera star Helen Traubel as guest soloist. For tomorrow's broadcast, the orchestra will be under the baton of the widely acclaimed conductor Wilfred Pelletier. For the world's great music, hear the NBC Symphony brought to you tomorrow and every Saturday. Transcribed. Ladies and gentlemen, the ringing of that phone bell brings you mystery adventure.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nero Wolf's office. Archie Goodwin speaking. Yes, who's calling? Mr. John Blake. Well, is this a matter of business? That's fine, Mr. Blake. I'll just call him.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, I'm not here. Tell him I'm up in the plant room with the orchids.

[Archie Goodwin]

I was going to call him to the phone, but he's up in the plant room with his orchids. What sort of a case is this, sir? Really?

[John Blake]

Really.

[Archie Goodwin]

Is that so?

[Nero Wolfe]

Is it a man or a woman?

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, I understand perfectly. It's a man.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, at least that's something different.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir, very urgent. I understand. And I assure you Mr. Wolf will be here waiting for you. The fee? Oh, shall we say about.

[John Blake]

Oh, a thousand?

[Nero Wolfe]

I will not see any client until after dinner. Fritz is having mountain quail on toast.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, Mr. Blake. Come at once. What were you saying, boss?

[Nero Wolfe]

Confound you, Archie, nothing but business all the time. What's the problem?

[Archie Goodwin]

I don't know. And at $1,000, considering our bank balance, I'll help him poison his great grandmother.

[NBC Symphony Announcer]

Ladies and gentlemen, it's that renowned genius who is the bulkiest, balkiest, most ponderous and most brilliant detective in the world.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yes.

[NBC Symphony Announcer]

None other than that chairborne mass of unpredictable intellect. Nero Wolf, created by Rex Stout and brought to you in a new series of adventures over this NBC network in the person of Mr. Sidney Greenstreet.

[Archie Goodwin]

What we chose to refer to as the case of the hasty will began, of course, with an urgent phone call from the mysterious John Blake. At the moment, Nero Wolf was seated in his chair, which was specially built for his £300, and I was giving him a lecture on the importance of money.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, that will do. I'm not interested.

[Archie Goodwin]

You will be when you learn you can make no more purchases of beer and skittles. You passed up 2 cinch cases. Now, each would have meant a healthy fee. Let us hope this Mr. Blake has a nice fat problem that will take us days to solve.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir?

[Nero Wolfe]

Answer the door.

[John Blake]

Good evening, I'm John Blake.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, yes, yes, come in, Mr. Blake. You have no idea how welcome you are.

[Nero Wolfe]

That draft is unbearable.

[Archie Goodwin]

This way, sir. Mr. Wolf doesn't care for anything resembling air. Oh, I'm Archie Goodwin.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good evening, Mr. Blake.

[John Blake]

Mr. Wolf, I have a little business for you. Now, before you say anything, I know you're not a lawyer.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm not a member of the bar, let us say, Mr. Blake.

[John Blake]

Of course.

[Archie Goodwin]

What kind of business, Mr. Blake?

[John Blake]

I have here a short will which I have typewritten myself. I haven't signed it yet. Also, I have here a sealed envelope containing a letter which I want you to be prepared to deliver to the addressee.

[Nero Wolfe]

A will and a letter. Very well.

[John Blake]

Yes. Do you know who I am?

[Nero Wolfe]

Seems that I've certainly seen you before.

[Archie Goodwin]

Same here. I just can't place you.

[John Blake]

Well, I'm John Blake, president of the Plymouth building.

[Archie Goodwin]

Alone? Oh, of course. I've seen your picture many times.

[Nero Wolfe]

You have a star for the best attorneys in the city, Mr. Blake. And this is most assuredly the business of attorney.

[John Blake]

Perhaps, but in this particular instance I wanted an individual who had no interest in me nor previous knowledge of my affairs.

[Nero Wolfe]

I see.

[John Blake]

Also I wanted the person who was, well, shall we say, not too well fixed.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, you certainly could, Archie, imagine Mr. Wolf being in need of money.

[Nero Wolfe]

Just wait. Conjured attorneys handled this, you'll know in a moment.

[John Blake]

But when I leave here I want you to forget the whole thing for the time being.

[Nero Wolfe]

Indeed, you have said it.

[John Blake]

Here's the will.

[Nero Wolfe]

Let me read it, Reggie.

[Archie Goodwin]

January 25, 1951. To my daughter, Anita Blake, I do hereby bequeath all my property, personal and real, including the portrait painting of her mother, my dear deceased wife, Marcia Blake. This will supersedes any and all instruments previously drawn.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sure. Simple enough, isn't it?

[John Blake]

That's all. Now the pen, please. And I'll sign it now. Then you sign as witness, Mr. Goodwin. You retain the will, Mr. Wolfe, and the envelope here, which is addressed to Hillary Brake, my brother, who is now living in this city.

[Nero Wolfe]

Your brother?

[John Blake]

He's just recently returned from 25 years in Australia. Though Hillary has written me several times, I have not favored him. We've. We've been estranged these many years over, well, a certain unpleasant situation which this enclosed letter will clear up.

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you in fear of your life, Mr. Blake? Murder?

[John Blake]

No, Mr. Wolf. There was a time, yes, but, well, not now. You will Know what to do with the will and the letter, though the time arrives. Now, as to your fee, you said 1000.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, we usually receive thousand.

[Nero Wolfe]

Will do.

[John Blake]

Well, here's a check, all made out.

[Archie Goodwin]

If you're thinking of suicide, Mr. Blake, we must warn you.

[John Blake]

If you don't care to go through with this, please say so. I'm not planning on suicide, I assure you.

[Nero Wolfe]

We have taken the job, Mr. Blake.

[John Blake]

And good evening, gentlemen, and thank you for your kind indulgence.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, that's the simplest little thousand we.

[Nero Wolfe]

Ever made, I believe, Mr. Goodwin. You're going to be quite surprised. I want you to get acquainted with John Blake's secretary. You are more than earned this thousand, young man. Archie? Archie, is that you?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

What time is it?

[Archie Goodwin]

It is 6pm the clock is right in front of your eyes.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm thinking, Archie. It's very interesting. Very. An entire day has passed since the visit from John Blake. Did you learn anything from Blake secretary?

[Archie Goodwin]

I did. He left his office late yesterday. She said his daughter Anita is quite upset because he didn't come home.

[Nero Wolfe]

Check his club?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yup. I didn't talk to the daughter, but I learned that she's engaged to a young fellow named Wilbur Martin. She told the secretary that her father had been acting strangely of late, a bit morose.

[Nero Wolfe]

And what does the daughter feel has happened?

[Archie Goodwin]

Anita's afraid he's been kidnapped.

[Nero Wolfe]

You haven't met nor talked to any other than the secretary?

[Archie Goodwin]

Not yet. So far no one's called the police.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. We must, for the time being, prevent that. What did you learn of Blake's brother from Australia?

[Archie Goodwin]

He's been here only a year. They've met only once or twice since his return. The secretary thinks the breakup was because of their love for the same woman. Hillary became very wealthy in Australia.

[Nero Wolfe]

Very well, Archie, it is time for you to visit Ms. Anita Blake at her home.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'd love to, boss. She's a mighty purty gal.

[Nero Wolfe]

Pooey. Archie, you can do me a great service.

[Archie Goodwin]

Anything.

[Nero Wolfe]

Be sure to close it tightly as you leave.

[John Blake]

Close what?

[Nero Wolfe]

The coal shooter, of course.

[Anita Blake]

I'm awfully glad you could, Uncle Hillary. Wilbur seemed to think you might know something about Father's disappearance.

[John Blake]

No, I don't know, Wilbur. I'm just as nonplussed as you are.

[Wilbur Martin]

When did you see your brother last?

[John Blake]

Oh, it's been four or five months. Why?

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, I just wanted to know what.

[John Blake]

Do you two think has become of him? Surely you know his recent actions better than I.

[Anita Blake]

Well, at first I thought he'd been kidnapped. Now I'm afraid it's suicide.

[John Blake]

Oh, I say, really now, have you been putting such ideas into our head, young man?

[Wilbur Martin]

The other hand could have been murder.

[John Blake]

Indeed. Well, I suggest that the police be called. Hospitals, the morgue, every place. Have you thought of doing that, young man?

[Wilbur Martin]

I was going to.

[Nero Wolfe]

Oh, really?

[John Blake]

Then what are you starting about? I'll just step into the library and do it myself.

[Anita Blake]

It can't be Wilbur. It just can't be.

[Inspector Kramer]

Ms. Blake, there's a Mr. Goodwin to see your father.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, I'll see him.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Ms. Blake, I'm Archie Goodwin.

[Anita Blake]

This is my fiance, Mr. Wilbur Martin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Martin, how do you do?

[Anita Blake]

What is it you want, Mr. Goodwin?

[Archie Goodwin]

Is your father here, Ms. Blake?

[Anita Blake]

Why, no. No he isn't.

[Wilbur Martin]

What is your business, Mr. Goodwin? Why do you want to see Mr. Blake?

[Archie Goodwin]

As a matter of fact, I don't really want to see Mr. Blake because I don't think he's here. I came to see Ms. Blake.

[Anita Blake]

Just who are you?

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm a detective.

[Wilbur Martin]

Police?

[Archie Goodwin]

Private investigator with Nero Wolf. John Blake has disappeared. I know you're trying to keep it out of the press because you think he's been kidnapped.

[Wilbur Martin]

We have called the police.

[Anita Blake]

What do you think has happened to my father?

[Archie Goodwin]

I think he's dead.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, dear. Why do you think that?

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, just what do you know, Mr. Goodwin?

[John Blake]

Oh, Anita, I want to ask you a few questions.

[Archie Goodwin]

I think it's advisable. Yes, I. I thought you were done for.

[John Blake]

That is, I don't think I either.

[Wilbur Martin]

This chap is a detective.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'm Sorry about this, Mr. Blake, but curiosity got the better of me. I hope I haven't wrecked things.

[John Blake]

What are you talking about?

[Archie Goodwin]

You remember the agreement?

[Anita Blake]

What agreement, Mr. Goodwin? Do you know who you're talking to?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why yes, John Blake.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, no. Mr. Goodwin, this is my uncle Hillary, my father's brother.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hillary. Hillary Blake?

[Anita Blake]

Yes, my father's twin brother.

[Archie Goodwin]

John and Hillary were twins. Of course it's news to me. I didn't know that.

[Wilbur Martin]

What did you know about him?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, now that I look at him, now that I can recall his speech, there is a difference.

[Wilbur Martin]

And now, why do you think John Blake is dead?

[Archie Goodwin]

I've just come from police headquarters.

[Anita Blake]

You mean he's been murdered?

[Archie Goodwin]

No, from all indications he's committed suicide.

[John Blake]

Suicide?

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you sure?

[Anita Blake]

Poor father. I was afraid of this.

[Archie Goodwin]

This morning a hat and an overcoat were found on the east river docks near Pier 9. In the coat was a typewritten copy of a will made yesterday. The hat bears the initials J.B. it was a will? Yes. Could you identify the hat and coat, Miss Blake?

[Anita Blake]

Well, yes, of course.

[Archie Goodwin]

Very well. Come in, Sergeant. This is Sergeant Hammond, Ms. Blake. Do you recognize this coat and hat?

[Anita Blake]

Yes, yes, I do.

[Nero Wolfe]

They.

[Anita Blake]

They were fathers. I. Wilbur.

[John Blake]

Suicide. I can't understand it, but the hat.

[Wilbur Martin]

And coat are not conclusive evidence. What about the will found in the pocket?

[Archie Goodwin]

Show them the will, Sergeant. Read it, Miss.

[Anita Blake]

You read it, Wilbur.

[Wilbur Martin]

To my daughter, Anita Blake, I do.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hereby bequeath all my property, personal and real, including the portrait painting of her mother, my dear deceased wife, Marcia Blake.

[Wilbur Martin]

This will supersedes any and all instruments previously drawn. But no signature.

[Archie Goodwin]

I have the original. Here you are.

[Wilbur Martin]

Where did you get this?

[Archie Goodwin]

Notice the signature of the witness, Archie Goodwin. You witnessed his signature in Nero wolf's office.

[Wilbur Martin]

But Mr. Blake had his own attorneys.

[Archie Goodwin]

Nevertheless, he came to Mr. Wolfe to take care of the will. If we hadn't recognized him from his photos in the papers, I wouldn't have witnessed the signature.

[Wilbur Martin]

Anita, is this your father's handwriting?

[Anita Blake]

Yes. Yes, it is. All right.

[Wilbur Martin]

But this still isn't proof that he's dead, nor that he committed suicide. No corpus delicti.

[Archie Goodwin]

And the body may not be found for days. But this evidence we have here certainly indicates that a body will be found eventually.

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe not, Mr. Goodman. It's possible they could have.

[Archie Goodwin]

What were you going to say?

[Wilbur Martin]

Nothing.

[Archie Goodwin]

Ms. Blake, in a way, I blame myself for your father's death.

[Anita Blake]

How do you mean?

[Archie Goodwin]

I had a sort of premonition. It's obvious now why he came to Nero Wolf.

[Wilbur Martin]

Is it?

[Archie Goodwin]

He wanted someone who didn't know him personally. His own attorneys would have been able to see through his plan and prevent his carrying it out.

[Anita Blake]

But he made a will.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why?

[Anita Blake]

Did he draw this new one?

[John Blake]

Yes, that's what I don't understand.

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, I still am not convinced that he committed suicide.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Blake, here is a letter he asked to be delivered to you.

[John Blake]

Oh, well, now, perhaps it will shed.

[Archie Goodwin]

Some light on the problem.

[John Blake]

What does it say, Uncle Jove says, Hilary, 25 years now, jealousy and bitterness have kept us apart. I know why you stayed in Australia all these years. I know you loved Marcia. She was rightfully yours. But I loved her too, and I couldn't go on without her. I know you've despised us both and I've pretended to despise you. I had to pretend because I lied to Marcia. I told her you were engaged to marry a woman in Sydney. Marcia was innocent. I was to blame when Marcia died last year and you wrote that you were coming back. I knew then that your resentment had faded, but I didn't answer you. And I've kept away from you because I couldn't face you. I've told you all this because things have happened which you will learn soon enough that have decided me to close my book and write Finis. I have made a new will, leaving everything I possess to Anita. Anita is young, Hillary, and I beg you to watch after her as though she were your own, which, but for my selfishness, she might well have been. Forgive me, Hilary. Well, this certainly indicates suicide.

[Anita Blake]

But what does he mean by things have happened?

[Archie Goodwin]

That, Ms. Blake, is the motive for which we'll just have to wait.

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, for that. And the body.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, boss, up here in the conservatory. A bit early, aren't you? How are the orchids?

[Nero Wolfe]

It's a nice sunny morning even though it is around zero outside. The sun is fine for them and behold. Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Huh? What is it?

[Nero Wolfe]

The Dendrobium Scoristel.

[John Blake]

The B.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, indeed. What about it?

[Nero Wolfe]

Showing two buds. Most encouraging.

[Archie Goodwin]

Indeed. Indeed. So, boss, I can't take the steam heat here.

[Nero Wolfe]

Tell me, this painting of Marcia Blake, is it large?

[Archie Goodwin]

Hangs over the Blake mantel, about 3 by 4ft.

[Nero Wolfe]

Find it most intriguing that John Blake should mention the painting in so short a will. And Hillary. Does he seem to offer any suggestion on this problem?

[Archie Goodwin]

He has very little to say. Wilbur has definite ideas and he's in there pitching all the time. There's a rather unpleasant way about him, though.

[Nero Wolfe]

You have talked with Inspector Kramer?

[Archie Goodwin]

I have.

[Nero Wolfe]

And asked Ms. Anita and Hillary to meet you at the morgue to look at the body.

[Archie Goodwin]

Right. And I left Wilbur out of this gathering.

[Nero Wolfe]

This body is practically unidentifiable, huh?

[Archie Goodwin]

In Kramer's opinion, it is.

[Nero Wolfe]

After you're finished down there, I'd like to have a chat with this Wilbur Martin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, but you'll get nothing out of him. I've tried.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, you're becoming so conceited. Soon I fear I'll have to fire you.

[Archie Goodwin]

If it were summer, I would forthwith resign.

[Nero Wolfe]

Run along and close our coal chute behind you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Morning, Inspector Kramer. Up early?

[Inspector Kramer]

Yeah. Goodwin, I'd just love to come down to this Morgue.

[Archie Goodwin]

This is Ms. Anita Blake and her uncle, Hilary Blake.

[Inspector Kramer]

Howdy do you do?

[Wilbur Martin]

Good morning, Mr. Goodwin. I hope you don't object too much to my joining the proceedings.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, I know, Wilbur. I suppose it's all right.

[Anita Blake]

Please, Mr. Goodwin, what's happened?

[Archie Goodwin]

There's a body here rather badly bruised and cut and in a Bad condition, but I think you should look at it. Oh, I. I'm sorry, Ms. Blake, but I'm afraid it's necessary.

[Anita Blake]

Very well. I'll be all right.

[Wilbur Martin]

I'd like to come along.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, yes, Wilbur, you must.

[Inspector Kramer]

Well, come on, Ms. Wayne. Yeah.

[Archie Goodwin]

Here we are.

[Inspector Kramer]

What do you say, Ms. Blake?

[Wilbur Martin]

Now, get hold of yourself, Anita, please, you must.

[Anita Blake]

Yes, yes. That's father.

[Archie Goodwin]

And you, Mr. Blake?

[John Blake]

It's certainly hard to say. It looks as though it might be John. Was there no means of identification on the body? No jewelry or.

[Anita Blake]

Father never wore any jewelry.

[Archie Goodwin]

There was nothing but this suit here. Nothing in the pockets.

[Anita Blake]

That's Father's suit, all right. I know. Oh, why? Why did he do it?

[Archie Goodwin]

Come along now. That's all for today. Mr. Wolf, this is Mr. Wilbur Martin.

[Nero Wolfe]

Ah, yes. How do you do, Mr. Martin? Sit down.

[Wilbur Martin]

Thank you, sir.

[Archie Goodwin]

No, no, no. Take the red leather chair. That's right.

[Nero Wolfe]

So glad you could come, Archie. Be ever first. Tell me, Mr. Martin, you saw the body?

[Wilbur Martin]

I did. Whether it was John Blake or not, I'm not sure, but Anita feels positive enough.

[Nero Wolfe]

You are skeptical about the suicide theory?

[John Blake]

Well, yes, I am.

[Nero Wolfe]

Are you trying to cast suspicion on someone else?

[Wilbur Martin]

No.

[Archie Goodwin]

He thinks he was martyred.

[Wilbur Martin]

I do.

[Nero Wolfe]

But not by you, of course.

[Wilbur Martin]

Certainly not.

[Nero Wolfe]

But who would know that? John came here, signed the will and gave us the letter to his brother. He must have contemplated suicide, don't you think?

[Wilbur Martin]

Are you positive it was John Blake who signed the will?

[Nero Wolfe]

Hmm. How interesting. You think it was his brother Hillary who came here posing as John?

[Archie Goodwin]

It could have been, but the man was quite gray and had no Australian accent.

[Wilbur Martin]

Hillary could have dropped the accent for a short while and grayed his hair. And they were twins.

[Nero Wolfe]

So enlightening. Mr. Martin, do go on.

[Wilbur Martin]

After he left you here, he could have killed John and thrown him in the river and left his overcoat and hat on the wharf.

[Archie Goodwin]

And why would Hillary kill John?

[Wilbur Martin]

Well, I. Well, there may have been several reasons. Maybe because of Marcia. Oh, several reasons.

[Nero Wolfe]

Tell me, did John Blake object to your engagement to Anita?

[Wilbur Martin]

No. Why should he?

[Nero Wolfe]

I don't know. Amelia asked. Anita Blake identified her father's handwriting. She identified the body. You still believe it's murder?

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe she only thought it was his handwriting.

[Nero Wolfe]

You had best be careful, Wilbur. In trying to make a murder out of this, you might place yourself in a most unhappy position.

[Archie Goodwin]

I checked the letter and the will with papers at John's office, and the handwriting is identical, in my opinion.

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe Hillary is clever at forgery.

[Archie Goodwin]

Maybe.

[Wilbur Martin]

Did you have the Experts check the writing?

[Archie Goodwin]

Not yet.

[Wilbur Martin]

Then how can you tell? Unless you had a bonafide sample of Hillary's writing.

[Nero Wolfe]

I take it that you found a sample of Hillary's writing. Some letters from Hillary to John.

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, I found a package of them in John's desk at his home.

[Nero Wolfe]

That, Wilbur, is most encouraging. Here they are.

[Wilbur Martin]

Several of them tied together. Some written in 1928 and a couple in 1948.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now we'll tell you something. We never thought John committed suicide either. You.

[Wilbur Martin]

You didn't?

[Nero Wolfe]

No. And before you go, Wilbur, write your name here on this pad.

[Wilbur Martin]

Very well.

[Nero Wolfe]

Thank you so much. I hope we shall see you tomorrow. Well, I'm surprised, Inspector Kramer, to see you out in such inclement weather.

[Inspector Kramer]

I like the cold spells.

[Nero Wolfe]

Sit in the red leather chair.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thanks.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. Have your experts finished checking the will and the letter?

[Inspector Kramer]

Yep, but not all through. With a package of Hillary's old letters that Wilbur found, what's the verdict? If this is forgery, it's the cleverest bit of forgery we've ever come across. My men say the will and the letter you received appear identical with the specimens from John's office.

[Nero Wolfe]

Indeed. The will and the letter then do seem to have been written by John Blake.

[Inspector Kramer]

Yes. But on the other hand, and this is unusual, by comparing this letter from John with a letter Hillary wrote from Australia, 1948, we found characteristics in both men's letters which were definitely similar.

[Nero Wolfe]

Then, Inspector, you feel that Hillary might have written the letter and signed the will? That it was Hillary who came to my office.

[Inspector Kramer]

It's a tough thing to prove, but I think that's being on the right track.

[Archie Goodwin]

Inspector, what about the rest of the package of letters I got from Wilbur Martin?

[Inspector Kramer]

They are still working on those down at headquarters.

[Nero Wolfe]

What about young Wilbur?

[Inspector Kramer]

So far, can't see much in him to worry about, but it's a bit early.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, phone out to the Blake mansion and tell Wilbur Martin that we've uncovered the whole thing. And if Wilbur's in on it, he'll be gone before you get there. We can pick him up later.

[Inspector Kramer]

Okay. I'll let you know about the rest of Hillary's letters.

[Nero Wolfe]

Good. We won't phone out there until you're.

[Inspector Kramer]

Finished and I'll call you as soon as possible.

[Nero Wolfe]

Archie, I want you to look into the affairs of the Plymouth Building and Loan Company. See what you can learn about the actual stability of the company.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, boss. Please put on your muffler and overcoat and open a window. A candle couldn't burn in this place. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. I'm on my way.

[Wilbur Martin]

Anita.

[Nero Wolfe]

Anita.

[Anita Blake]

What is it, Wilbur? What's happened?

[Wilbur Martin]

I came out as soon as I heard.

[John Blake]

Well, what's happened? Speak up, man.

[Wilbur Martin]

You haven't heard. You don't know.

[Anita Blake]

Know what?

[Nero Wolfe]

Look.

[Wilbur Martin]

Look at these headlines.

[Anita Blake]

Plymouth Building in lone crashes. Wilbur, what does this mean?

[Wilbur Martin]

It means your father embezzled the funds of the company and he has gone to the wall.

[Nero Wolfe]

What?

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes. Close the door.

[Anita Blake]

No, Wilbur, no. I can't believe such a thing.

[Wilbur Martin]

I'm sorry, Anita, but there it is in black and white.

[John Blake]

Then this is the motive for John's suicide. Why?

[Wilbur Martin]

Why?

[John Blake]

Because he. Well, he knew he was caught. What else?

[Wilbur Martin]

He could have put the money back, couldn't he?

[John Blake]

Yes, but maybe he lost it by trying to make more to cover up the shortage.

[Wilbur Martin]

I don't think he lost it.

[John Blake]

You don't?

[Wilbur Martin]

No.

[John Blake]

Oh, nonsense. He must have, else why would he kill himself?

[Wilbur Martin]

Maybe he didn't kill himself.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, this is all.

[John Blake]

Oh, please, please, Anita, you mustn't worry. I know this is very embarrassing for you, but it isn't your fault. Now, let me take you away for a while. We can run down to Mexico until this blows over.

[Wilbur Martin]

You won't take her to Mexico. You won't take her any place.

[John Blake]

Just what do you mean?

[Anita Blake]

What's wrong with you? Wilbur, you're acting stupid.

[Wilbur Martin]

Your father may have fleeced the company, but I don't believe he lost the money. Wilbur, he hid the money. And your Uncle Hillary found the hiding place, and he set up the suicide to cover your father's murder. Hillary killed him.

[Anita Blake]

Oh, you're crazy. You're out of your mind.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why?

[John Blake]

This doesn't make sense. I have all the money I need.

[Wilbur Martin]

Yes, you have.

[John Blake]

Now, pack your things, Anita. I'll phone the airport for reservations.

[Wilbur Martin]

You can't leave at a time like this. You won't leave this room.

[John Blake]

Do you know what can be done to you for threatening people with firearms? I'll call the police.

[Wilbur Martin]

You don't need to call the police. I've just talked to that detective, Mr. Goodwin. He's on his way here. The police have uncovered everything. I know you killed John and you have the money.

[Anita Blake]

Wilbur, you're out of your mind.

[Wilbur Martin]

I know what I'm talking about.

[Anita Blake]

Get out of here. Get out.

[Wilbur Martin]

I won't leave. No one will leave till Goodwin comes.

[Nero Wolfe]

Ah, archie. Come in. Ms. Blake, Mr. Blake, Mr. Martin. Glad you were all able to accept my invitation. You too, Inspector Kramer.

[Inspector Kramer]

I know how glad you are I could be here.

[Archie Goodwin]

Wolf, please be seated.

[Wilbur Martin]

Folks, Hillary was going to Mexico on the next plane and taking Anita with him.

[Nero Wolfe]

Mexico?

[Wilbur Martin]

John Blake stole the money from the company, but Hillary found out about it and killed him.

[John Blake]

Mr. Wolfe, this is utter nonsense.

[Nero Wolfe]

Mr. Blake, Inspector Kramer's handwriting experts have examined the will and the letter left with me. They have also checked them with your recent letters from Australia.

[John Blake]

Indeed.

[Nero Wolfe]

And your letters from Australia show a definite resemblance, having the same characteristics as the letter and the will you give me. You.

[John Blake]

You mean you think that I signed the will and wrote the letter?

[Nero Wolfe]

Definitely.

[John Blake]

Ridiculous.

[Nero Wolfe]

But there's something else. The world mentions a painting of Marcia Blake, Anita's mother. Archie, where is that painting? Did you bring it?

[Archie Goodwin]

It's here.

[Inspector Kramer]

Bring it in here, Sergeant.

[John Blake]

Just a moment.

[Archie Goodwin]

I hope you don't mind, Ms. Blake.

[Anita Blake]

What are you doing to it?

[Archie Goodwin]

Tearing off the paper backing of the picture.

[Nero Wolfe]

Yes, and there you are. There's the reason for the whole thing.

[Anita Blake]

Bonds.

[Wilbur Martin]

Paste it in the back. Thousands of dollars in negotiable bonds. Then Hillary did know about the money. He killed John for all this. He had a need to order the picture to be created for shipping.

[John Blake]

I did no such thing.

[Nero Wolfe]

Nevertheless, you didn't kill John Blake.

[Wilbur Martin]

Certainly he did.

[Nero Wolfe]

Look at these two letters from Hilary Blake to John here in America. What are the dates?

[Wilbur Martin]

September and November 1948.

[Nero Wolfe]

Those were supposedly Hillary's most recent letters to John. And look at these letters. June and July 1928. Notice any difference?

[Archie Goodwin]

All are signed by Hillary, but The ones dated 1928 are not at all like the ones written in 1948.

[Nero Wolfe]

Not the least similarity. The ones dated 1928 were written by Hillary, but those dated 1948 were written by John.

[Wilbur Martin]

John? How do you mean?

[Nero Wolfe]

Carry on, Inspector.

[Inspector Kramer]

You're under arrest, Mr. Blake. Not for murder, because there's been no murder. You're under arrest on a charge of embezzlement.

[Anita Blake]

Embezzlement? Oh, but how?

[Inspector Kramer]

And you, Ms. Blake, are under arrest as an accomplice.

[John Blake]

What?

[Wilbur Martin]

I don't understand, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolfe]

Wilbur, you yourself unearthed the old 1928 letters, rarely written by Hillary from Australia. The recent letters are not in the same handwriting. They were poorly forged by John in 1948. Furthermore, we checked with Australia and learned that Hilary Blake died in Sydney 10 years ago.

[Archie Goodwin]

And this man here is really John Blake, posing as Hillary to escape the penalty for looting the companies.

[Wilbur Martin]

Anita, it just doesn't seem possible.

[Nero Wolfe]

Anita knew all about it. And they might have gotten away with it if they hadn't come to us.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie, what a fantastic plan.

[Nero Wolfe]

I'm giving you Back your thousand dollars, Mr. Blake, but I'm afraid it won't do either of you much good now. Thank you so much, Inspector Kramer, for dropping in.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, boss, that was a clever bit of deduction.

[Nero Wolfe]

You really think so, Archie? It was quite a blunder for so clever a man as John Blake.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why did he make the mistake of coming to us?

[Nero Wolfe]

There are many holes in the plans of the criminal mind. He must have forgotten about the 1928 letters or he would have destroyed them.

[Archie Goodwin]

And he underestimated Wilbur's intelligence. And I thought he was a dope too. But he was half right.

[Nero Wolfe]

He really slipped up on the body in the morgue. Inspector Gramer was most kind to cooperate with us in that little act. Anita was too eager to identify the first body she saw.

[Archie Goodwin]

And the painting? You sensed there was more importance attached to it than the fact that it was a work of art.

[Nero Wolfe]

True. Some beer, please, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Coming up, boss.

[Nero Wolfe]

Now that brings me to an unpleasant subject. What's that you were talking about? Resigning. Are you still in that frame of mind?

[Archie Goodwin]

Resigning? When did I say anything like that?

[Nero Wolfe]

Then you are going to be content with conditions as they are?

[Archie Goodwin]

Why, of course. What are you saying?

[Nero Wolfe]

And you don't mind it a bit as long as this dreadful weather continues?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, not at all.

[Wilbur Martin]

I don't mind. What?

[Nero Wolfe]

Going in and out of the house through the coal chute?

[NBC Symphony Announcer]

You have been listening to the new Adventures of Nero Wolf, starring Sidney Greenstreet. Tonight's transcribed story by John Edison was based on the characters created by Rex Stout and produced and directed by J. Donald Wilson. In tonight's cast were Harry Bartell as Archie Goodwin and Victor Rodman, Louise Arthur, Hal Gerard and Bill Johnstone. Next week at this same time, Nero Wolfe and Archie will bring you the case of the disappearing diamonds. Don Stanley speaking. Three chimes mean good times on NBC.

[Geico Advertiser]

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[Adam Graham]

Week on the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon.

[Nero Wolfe]

Well, boy?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, Mr. Finley.

[Nero Wolfe]

Where are you, boy?

[John Blake]

What about my house?

[NBC Symphony Announcer]

Well, I'll tell you, Mr. Finley, where's your word?

[Wilbur Martin]

You said you'd be over with a down payment.

[Nero Wolfe]

What are you made of, boy? Rock, maple or pineapple.

[Archie Goodwin]

Something has come up.

[Wilbur Martin]

Mr. Finley.

[Adam Graham]

Listen to the old time radio snack wagon, snackwagon.net or wherever you get your podcast. Welcome back. Well, there were a couple ways that this mystery ring really true to Mere Wolf and a couple that it didn't. First of all, the actual plot of the story, while not the same, had some similarities to the plot of the Nero Wolf novella. Instead of evidence, there were a couple little twists. One wolf giving back the money, and when he's actually performed the service that was required of him, he doesn't really do that. And then the policeman waiting outside while Archie questioned the suspect. But on the bright side, this does give you a chance to see some things happen in a Nero Wolf story that you'll never see in the original. I did get an email from Andrew Rines regarding the Harry Bartell episodes. He emailed to let me know I mentioned Horizons west was one of the Harry Bartell vehicles and he has got that over on the Old Time Radio daily [e-mail] and new episodes are being posted every Friday and probably by the time of this recording, they're up to week nine of 13. And that's actually a series that would be pretty interesting based on the Lewis and Clark expedition. And my family genealogist, my late Aunt Doris went back and found that our family actually had some relation to Meriwether Lewis by marriage. And he also one thing Andrew does that I don't do is he consistently tags the episodes with all the stars in them and he's tagged all of the episodes with Harry Bartel and even just with the Westerns of Gunsmokes, have Gun will travel Horizons West. It is an impressive. You really do see all that Bartel contributed to making radio great. So. Oh, and I mentioned we had an announcement regarding Rogues Gallery last week. We mentioned or two weeks ago we mentioned we're gonna go ahead and move Rogues Gallery up because two new episodes have been found. Well, the Old Time Radio researchers released their fourth edition of the Certified Rogues Gallery set and we have yet another episode of Rogues Gallery. So this is one of those pleasant things that happens. Originally, we've been planning to bring you 21 weeks of rogues gallery, 20 of those starring Dick Powell. Now we're going to be offering you 24 weeks of Rogues Gallery 22 starring Dick Powell. So a positive thing happening in the discovery of new radio shows. New old radio shows for your listening pleasure. Anyway, that'll do it for us now. For now we'll be back next week with another episode of Nero Wolf, and join us tomorrow for Let George Do It. In the meanwhile, you can send your comments to box13reatdetectives.net follow us over on Twitter at radiodetectives and be sure to follow us over on Facebook, facebook.com Radiodetectives from Boise, Idaho, though, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

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