Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Killer Card

Summary

Podcast Summary: Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Killer Card

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Nero Wolfe
• Host/Author: Adam Graham
• Episode: Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Killer Card
• Release Date: October 1, 2024

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of Old Time Radio Nero Wolfe, host Adam Graham delves into the intricate world of Rex Stout’s famed detective, Nero Wolfe. Titled "The Case of the Killer Card," the episode features Sidney Greenstreet as Nero Wolfe and Gerald Moore portraying the ever-resourceful Archie Goodwin. Set against the backdrop of Nero Wolfe's iconic New York City brownstone, listeners are treated to a blend of sharp dialogue, clever deductions, and classic mystery storytelling.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens with a warm welcome from Adam Graham, who provides background information on the series and introduces the unique aspect of this particular installment. Graham mentions the casting of Gerald Moore, known for his role as Philip Marlowe, as Archie Goodwin, creating an intriguing connection between classic detective personas.

Notable Quote:

Adam Graham [01:28]: "Today's episode is called The Killer Cards."

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The Card Game and the Murder

The plot unfolds as Mr. Stephen Denby invites four individuals, including Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin, to participate in a high-stakes poker game. The tension is palpable from the outset, with Archie receiving a suspicious phone call from Denby urging Nero Wolfe to umpire the game.

Key Moments:

• Denby's Invitation: Denby proposes a poker game where the winner gains ownership of the Candy Club, a successful establishment involved in various enterprises.
• Locked Room Setting: The game takes place in Denby’s home, with strict instructions that no one may enter or leave the room once the game commences, heightening the sense of confinement and suspense.

Notable Quotes:

Nero Wolf [04:22]: "Mr. Wolf will do nothing of the sort, Archie. Mr. Wolf is thirsty."

Nero Wolf [07:55]: "The door, Chuck. Okay. Mr. Goodwin, may I introduce you to my associates in business and in poker."

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Introduction of Characters

The episode introduces a cast of intriguing characters:

• Jean: A mysterious and charming female presence with a penchant for changing her name.
• Lucasto: A charismatic yet impulsive gambler, portrayed as a potential suspect.
• Mr. Piper: The victim, whose sudden murder during the game sets the mystery in motion.
• Chuck: Denby's associate, serving as the human enforcer with a hidden agenda.

Character Dynamics: The interactions among the characters are laced with subtle tensions and unspoken motives. Nero Wolfe's analytical mind begins to pick apart these relationships, sensing deceit beneath the surface.

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Nero Wolfe's Investigation

As the poker game progresses, the unexpected murder of Mr. Piper throws the participants into chaos. Nero Wolfe, despite his initial reluctance to leave his comfort zone, takes charge of unraveling the mystery with Archie Goodwin by his side.

Key Investigative Steps:

1. Examining the Crime Scene: Wolfe meticulously observes the position of the gun, bullet trajectory, and the condition of the room during the murder.
2. Analyzing Motives: He discerns that all participants have a vested interest in owning the Candy Club, but identifies specific tensions that could lead to murder.
3. Interrogating Witnesses: Wolfe questions each participant, extracting valuable information that begins to piece together the puzzle.

Notable Quotes:

Nero Wolf [16:00]: "The windows are secured by catches."

Nero Wolf [17:31]: "The murder weapon. Ah, yes, yes, yes. Has it been moved? Nobody touched it."

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Clues and Deduction

Wolfe's keen eye picks up on subtle details:

• Oil Spots on the Rug: Indicate the direction from which the weapon was discharged.
• Whisper Heard Before the Shooting: Suggests a premeditated action by one of the participants.
• Behavioral Cues: The interactions and statements of Jean and Lucasto reveal inconsistencies and hidden motives.

Through logical reasoning, Wolfe deduces that the apparent evidence against Lucasto may be a diversion, leading him to suspect Mr. Denby as the true orchestrator behind the murder.

Notable Quotes:

Nero Wolf [25:35]: "We must assume, then, that Piper turned his body in the direction of the whisper."

Nero Wolf [30:33]: "Therefore, the gun must have been thrown from the door, bounced twice, staining the rug before reaching its final destination."

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The Resolution

In a dramatic turn of events, Nero Wolfe confronts the real murderer, Mr. Denby, revealing the layered deception that aimed to frame Lucasto. Wolfe’s strategic manipulation ensures that the true culprit cannot escape justice, while also securing the necessary leverage to uncover the deeper motives behind the crime.

Key Outcomes:

• Exposure of Denby's Deceit: Wolfe uncovers that Denby meticulously planned the murder to inherit the club by eliminating competition.
• Final Confrontation: Wolfe and Goodwin outmaneuver Denby and his accomplices, leading to their apprehension.

Notable Quotes:

Archie Goodwin [30:18]: "So Denby whispered to Piper after kicking the light switch and set him up for a shot by Chuck from the doorway."

Nero Wolf [31:07]: "The case was crystal cleared, Archie."

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Host’s Commentary and Conclusion

After the thrilling conclusion of the case, Adam Graham returns to provide his insights on the episode. He praises the narrative twists and the satisfying resolution achieved within the confines of the office setting. Graham also shares his thoughts on various other radio detective shows, highlighting the strengths of Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Killer Card in delivering a compelling mystery that stays true to the classic detective genre.

Notable Quote:

Adam Graham [33:54]: "This was a good mystery with a lot of twists and I think the writers did a good job on this one."

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Final Thoughts

The Case of the Killer Card stands out as a testament to the enduring appeal of Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin. Through sharp dialogue, intricate plotting, and meticulous attention to detail, this episode offers listeners a rich and engaging experience that honors the legacy of old-time radio detective stories. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this episode promises an enthralling journey into the world of classic mystery and masterful deduction.

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Notable Quotes Overview:

1. Nero Wolf on motives:

   "Mr. Wolf will do nothing of the sort, Archie. Mr. Wolf is thirsty." ([04:22])

2. Archie confronts suspicion:

   "Whoa, that's no carnation." ([12:29])

3. Wolfe's realization:

   "The windows are secured by catches." ([16:00])

4. Deduction on weapon movement:

   "The gun must have been thrown from the door, bounced twice, staining the rug before reaching its final destination." ([30:33])

5. Host's praise:

   "This was a good mystery with a lot of twists and I think the writers did a good job on this one." ([33:54])

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Characters Featured:

• Nero Wolfe: The genius detective known for his analytical prowess and reluctance to leave his home.
• Archie Goodwin: Wolfe’s charismatic and street-smart assistant, providing a perfect foil to Wolfe’s meticulous nature.
• Mr. Stephen Denby: The antagonist, whose invitation to the poker game sets the murder into motion.
• Jean: A mysterious female character involved in the plot’s deception.
• Lucasto: An impulsive gambler caught in the center of the mystery.
• Chuck: Denby’s enforcer, playing a critical role in the unfolding events.

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Conclusion

Adam Graham's Old Time Radio Nero Wolfe episode "The Case of the Killer Card" masterfully encapsulates the essence of classic detective storytelling. With stellar performances by Sidney Greenstreet and Gerald Moore, the episode weaves a tale of deception, strategic deduction, and ultimate justice. Listeners are left both entertained and impressed by Nero Wolfe's unwavering commitment to solving complex cases, reinforcing his status as one of literature’s most beloved detectives.

Transcript

[Archie Goodwin]

La navidad jegua de Home Depot encuentre el arbolito perfecto enuestra enorme barida de stilos forma citamanos cum el arbolito facil de armar Jackson Noble con ramas pre illuminadas enuntos portre dotnes listo para decorad.

[Adam Graham]

While starry light flocked con mas de.

[Archie Goodwin]

Milo vicentas ramas pra illuminadas de alambre con memoria que mantien en su forma para que este visto encuentos sale de la caja encuentre larbolito perfecto parato Espiritu navideno and the Home Depot asses Mass Logras Mass hey, I'm Ryan Reynolds. Recently I asked Mint Mobile's legal team if big wireless companies are allowed to raise prices due to inflation. They said yes. And then when I asked if raising prices technically violates those onerous two year.

[Ryan Reynolds]

Contracts, they said, what the are you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Talking about, you insane Hollywood So to recap, we're cutting the price of mint Unlimited from $30 a month to just $15 a month. Give it a [e-mail] Switch $45 upfront.

[Adam Graham]

Payment equivalent to $15 per month New.

[Archie Goodwin]

Customers on first 3 month plan only Taxes and fees Extra speeds lower above 40 gigabyte C Detail.

[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, send it to me, box13reatdetectives.net Follow the show on Twitter at radiodetactives and you can also become one of our friends on [e-mail] Radiodetectives before we do get started with today's episode of Nero Wolf, I do want to encourage you to try Audible. Audible opens a world of great listening to you. You can enjoy BBC radio dramas such as the Poirot and Miss Marple series, or you can check out great mystery novels such as the Nero Wolf books. Or if you've had trouble keeping up on your reading, you can check out the latest best sellers and also enjoy your choice of the New York Times or Wall Street Journal audio editions. You can try Audible out for free for two weeks and get a free audiobook. Go to audiblepodcast.com old time radio let's get into today's episode of Nero Wolf, which features a brand new Archie Goodwin. To us, it's Gerald Moore. Now, those of you who are fans of radio detective shows will best know Gerald Moore as Philip Marlowe. Philip Marlowe actually went off the air in September of 1950, probably mostly because of Moore wanting to focus on getting into television and it would actually return to the era as a summer replacement over CBS in the summer of 1951. So his appearance as Archie Goodwin comes kind of in between his Philip Marlowe performances. And of course, I should mention that the reason that the log I was reading last week was mistaken as to who was playing Archie Goodwin is that while Gerald Moore didn't play Archie Goodwin in that episode, he did appear as the heavy. So Moore continuing to be a great character actor. Today's episode is called the Killer Cards.

[Ryan Reynolds]

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. Yep, switching and saving with Geico feels just like that. Get more with Geico.

[Archie Goodwin]

Ladies and gentlemen, the ringing of that phone bell means mystery adventure. Nero Wolf's office, Archie Goodwin speaking. You want Mr. Wolfe to what?

[Nero Wolf]

Mr. Wolf will do nothing of the sort, Archie. Mr. Wolf is thirsty.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hold on for a moment. The bottle opener is in the left hand drawer of your desk.

[Nero Wolf]

Thank you, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Wolf, I've got a man named Denby on the phone. He wants you to umpire a card game.

[Nero Wolf]

Man is insane.

[Archie Goodwin]

He's offering a fee.

[Nero Wolf]

The answer is no. I know nothing of card games, nor do I wish to learn.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, well, the answer is no, Mr. Denby. Sure, I'll ask him again after he finishes the beer he's working on. Goodbye.

[Nero Wolf]

People appall me, the fantasies they indulge in. What on earth may that maniac think I might consent to preside at a card game?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, seems he expects one of the players to be death. Ladies and gentlemen, it's the bulkiest, balkiest, smartest and most unpredictable detective in the world. That chair. Born genius 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. Mr. Wolf would not attend, but the card game went on anyway at the home of a Mr. Stephen Denby.

[Jean]

Jean, the custom. Mr. Piper, I think we're ready to begin. Eh?

[Lucasto]

I'm ready.

[Jean]

Yes, Jean, you always are.

[Lucasto]

How I like that remark. I'll have to decide later on.

[Jean]

Please do, Ricasto. It's all right with me and Mr. Piper.

[Nero Wolf]

I I brought a deck.

[Archie Goodwin]

No.

[Jean]

As host, I shall supply the cards.

[Nero Wolf]

Before we play, I examine them.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, of course.

[Jean]

Here you are, Chuck.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah.

[Jean]

Mr. Denby, you will remain outside the door until called. No one has entered this room under any circumstances.

[Archie Goodwin]

Got it.

[Jean]

Lucasta, the cards look all right. Thank you. Now then, shall we make things absolutely clear?

[Lucasto]

You mean, should you make a speech? I don't mind.

[Archie Goodwin]

But make it short.

[Jean]

I shall. The four of us seated at this table are joint owners of the Candy Club, a rather successful institution devoted to the sale of food, liquor, entertainment and the gambling and games of chance. For some time now, we have all resented sharing the profits. Some of us have attempted to buy out the others.

[Nero Wolf]

Again, you needn't babble on. No one wants to sell.

[Jean]

We know that.

[Archie Goodwin]

True?

[Jean]

True, Mr. Piper. Which is the reason for this little game of cards. One hand shall be dealt to each of us a hand at poker. Whoever wins gets the club. The others retire as gracefully as they can. Agreed?

[Archie Goodwin]

That's why we agreed.

[Jean]

Very well. The cards are shuffled. I'll place them in the center of the table. McCastell, would you like I cut.

[Nero Wolf]

Good.

[Archie Goodwin]

If nobody minds, I'll cut them, too.

[Jean]

After Mr. McCastell, nobody minds. Happy now, Mr. Piper?

[Archie Goodwin]

Let's get going, huh?

[Jean]

Very well. Unless Jean would care to.

[Lucasto]

Oh, thanks. We're all crooks here. Which sort of cancels out any funny business with a card.

[Jean]

Very well. We shall all draw a card in turn until five cards are drawn by each player. Shall we start, Gene?

[Lucasto]

Sure.

[Jean]

Lucasto. Okay, Mr. Piper? Yes, of course. And myself. We just keep going in rotation.

[Lucasto]

This is fun.

[Archie Goodwin]

Fun?

[Nero Wolf]

No, no. There's too much money which rides on these cards.

[Lucasto]

That's what makes it fun.

[Nero Wolf]

Would you mind keeping quiet? I'm nervous.

[Jean]

We all are, one way or another. I think we all have our five cards now.

[Archie Goodwin]

We all got them.

[Jean]

Very well, then. In the same order that the cards were dealt. Gene.

[Lucasto]

A pair of threes.

[Jean]

Lucasto. Nothing, Mr. Piper.

[Archie Goodwin]

Kings, two.

[Nero Wolf]

The light.

[Jean]

Piper.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hey, hey. I don't like to seem stuffy, mister, but will you take your elbow out of my back?

[Jean]

I'd be delighted to, Mr. Goodwin, but it's not my elbow.

[Archie Goodwin]

I don't care if it's your tibia maximus, just take it away.

[Jean]

Chuck wouldn't like that.

[Archie Goodwin]

We have company. Mind if I look around? Keep right on walking, pal. That would be Chuck behind me, huh? And you are?

[Jean]

My name is Denby. You may remember it.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, yeah, yeah. You phoned a couple of hours ago about a card game. Now, look, just what is your boy poking in my back?

[Jean]

I think it's a.38.

[Archie Goodwin]

You're not sure?

[Jean]

It might be a.45, Chuck.

[Archie Goodwin]

Is it loaded?

[Jean]

Make a funny move, pal, and you'll find out the hard way.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yo, wait a minute. It's just a passing curiosity. Where are we going?

[Jean]

My car. Get in.

[Archie Goodwin]

If you insist. I guess you do.

[Jean]

I'll drive. Chuck.

[Archie Goodwin]

The car bulletproof?

[Jean]

No, that's hardly necessary. Chuck shoots first.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, it's a saving, I guess. The only thing is I. I hadn't figured on taking a ride. I told Mr. Wolf I was going for a walk. He disapproved.

[Jean]

You're going for a ride?

[Archie Goodwin]

Isn't that a little corny?

[Jean]

Now, there's a minor difference. Usually the guest, shall we say, is killed at the conclusion of the ride.

[Archie Goodwin]

In this case, let's not make the difference too minor.

[Jean]

You will survive the ride. It's what comes afterwards that might kill you. You see, Mr. Goodwin, my friends and I have a little mystery to solve.

[Archie Goodwin]

You want me to solve it?

[Jean]

No, we want Mr. Wolf to solve it. In order to do so, he must leave his house and come to mine. He has to, in order to find the solution quickly.

[Archie Goodwin]

Why?

[Jean]

Neither my friends nor myself have any desire to improve our acquaintance with the police. Therefore, we want the mystery solved before the police are even called in. Hence our need for Mr. Wolf. Hence our detaining you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Detaining is a pretty word in the circumstances.

[Jean]

Now, this is my home, Mr. Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, well, I don't like the architecture. I think I'll stay out. Keep going, pal. On second thought, Mr. Denby, what makes you think Mr. Wolf is going to leave his house and come here?

[Jean]

You. Unless he does so, he will lose you forever. The door, Chuck. Okay. Mr. Goodwin, may I introduce you to my associates in business and in poker. Do you write Mr. Locasto, a charming but impulsive fellow.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello.

[Nero Wolf]

He's only the stooge.

[Archie Goodwin]

Where's the fat fellow?

[Jean]

In time. Lacasto. The lovely lady whose back is to you is Jean. Jean something or other. She's always changing her name.

[Nero Wolf]

Hello.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello.

[Jean]

And the gentleman facing you is Mr. Piper.

[Archie Goodwin]

How do you do? Is he exclusive or just. Hey, he's wearing his red carnation. A little low, isn't he? Over his heart. Except that's no carnation.

[Jean]

That, Mr. Goodwin, is blood. Lifeblood.

[Nero Wolf]

RG oh, boy. Always taking walks. Come in. The door is unlocked.

[Archie Goodwin]

Are you? Yes. You're Wolf.

[Nero Wolf]

Having made a magnificent discovery, suppose you remove your hat.

[Jean]

No.

[Archie Goodwin]

Come on.

[Nero Wolf]

I beg your pardon?

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Denby wants to see you.

[Nero Wolf]

Mr. Denby can see me here.

[Archie Goodwin]

Here ain't where he wants to see you.

[Nero Wolf]

Here, at the risk of minor monotony, is where he'll have to see me.

[Jean]

Don't you want your boy Goodwin to keep on living?

[Nero Wolf]

No one has ever been able to discourage him.

[Jean]

Mr. Denby will.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie's in custody?

[Jean]

No, in Mr. Denby's house, under gun.

[Nero Wolf]

I don't have to believe that.

[Jean]

Take a look at this wallet.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie's wallet. I shall accompany you. And permit me to warn you that if Mr. Goodwin has been harmed, nothing short of murder will satisfy me.

[Jean]

It's getting late. Wolf isn't here yet. Maybe he doesn't worry about you, Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, he could have been delayed. Maybe an orchid needed a pollen transfusion or something. Besides, only the good die young.

[Lucasto]

Then you must be very, very good. Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

That remark I didn't care for. We sit here and wait for the.

[Nero Wolf]

Fat one, but in the meanwhile, the police.

[Jean]

The police will come when we notify them.

[Nero Wolf]

But they will not like the delay.

[Archie Goodwin]

We make to notify them. I say we waste time.

[Nero Wolf]

I see the fat one will not risk coming.

[Archie Goodwin]

You say entirely too much.

[Nero Wolf]

Is that so? Maybe I kill you myself.

[Jean]

Picasso, put that gun away.

[Lucasto]

Yes, darling. Archie should have a chance to live. Not long if Wolf doesn't come.

[Archie Goodwin]

Stop looking so pleased.

[Lucasto]

Are you afraid to die?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, well, I'm not looking forward to it. It's so final. Besides, I didn't eat a hearty dinner and. Oh, the marines have landed. Who is it? Chuck, with Meryl Wolf.

[Jean]

Let him in. Shut the door, Chuck. Stay outside.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Hello, Mr. Wolf. Oh, am I glad to see you.

[Nero Wolf]

I regret I cannot say the same thing. Blast you. Why couldn't you stay at home instead of taking those confounded walks? I warned you it would be dangerous.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, but Mr. Wolf, it wasn't the fresh air that got me, it was Denby.

[Jean]

Mr. Wolf, I knew you wouldn't come here without some sort of pressure. I thought the method I use would be most effective.

[Nero Wolf]

Would you really have killed Archie if I hadn't come?

[Jean]

I would have had no choice. I would have been stuck with a witness to an unsolved murder.

[Nero Wolf]

Suppose I cannot solve it?

[Jean]

I should be forced to apply the same logic to two witnesses.

[Archie Goodwin]

Mr. Wolf, you really came here to save my life, huh?

[Nero Wolf]

Nonsense. I came here for a fee. Mr. Denby, I have a check for.

[Jean]

$1,000 already made out.

[Nero Wolf]

Clear it up. You forget, I left my home. I traveled unprotected through the streets of this city exposed to motor accidents. To fresh air, too. You offer me $1,000.

[Jean]

Will 2500 do?

[Nero Wolf]

Barely. Archie, will you take the check now? I presume you want me to find who killed the gentleman at the table. The one facing me.

[Jean]

His name is Mr. Piper.

[Nero Wolf]

The name is no importance. Will you all sit at the table in the same position you were at the time of the shooting?

[Jean]

Of course. Gene. Custody.

[Nero Wolf]

Good. Now for a look at the wound. The lights, I should imagine, went out for a while when the shooting occurred.

[Lucasto]

They went out, yes.

[Nero Wolf]

Of the three of you at the table, which one had the best motive for the murder? We all have the same motive. The club Helpful. There was no one else in the room at the time?

[Jean]

No one.

[Nero Wolf]

The door locked.

[Jean]

With Chuck on guard outside of it.

[Nero Wolf]

So much for that. The windows, I notice, are closed. They were closed when the murder took place.

[Lucasto]

They were closed.

[Nero Wolf]

The window panes are all unbroken, which eliminates the possibility of the shot being fired from outside of them. Unless one of them was raised and.

[Jean]

Lowered, that wouldn't have been possible. The windows are secured by catches.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, will you check that?

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, Mr. Wolf, I shall for the.

[Nero Wolf]

Moment assume that the windows are neither lying nor untrustworthy. Does anyone remember anything unusual occurring at the time of the shooting?

[Lucasto]

Well, someone whispered Piper just before the shot.

[Nero Wolf]

Indeed. You all heard that whisper?

[Archie Goodwin]

We heard it.

[Nero Wolf]

Man's voice or woman?

[Jean]

Well, I. I can't say. A whisper doesn't reveal much of anything.

[Archie Goodwin]

The windows weren't open, Mr. Wolf.

[Jean]

Which leads to the fact that it had to be one of us in this room. But which one, Mr. Wolf?

[Nero Wolf]

The murder weapon. Ah, yes, yes, yes. Has it been moved? Nobody touched it. It's laying on the floor where it was dropped. Interesting. If you look closely, you would observe two oil spots staining the rug between the revolver and the lady's chair, indicating who sat at the right of Mr. Piper. I did. Why, Mr. Danby.

[Jean]

Yes?

[Nero Wolf]

If I were you, I would turn Mr. Lacasto over to the police. You are a liar.

[Jean]

I warned you about that gun. Lacastro.

[Nero Wolf]

Was it necessary to shoot Mr.

[Jean]

Locasto in the arm? Yes. He was reaching for a gun. He'll live, however, till the police take him away. What do I tell them?

[Nero Wolf]

You will point out the angle of the wound. As you notice, Mr. Denby, the bullet entered Mr. Piper's heart from the right.

[Jean]

Yes, so it did. Therefore, whoever sat to his right, that was Locasto.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, you have the check?

[Archie Goodwin]

I have it.

[Nero Wolf]

We may as well leave, Mr. Wolf.

[Jean]

You're sure Locasto shot Piper?

[Nero Wolf]

I have indicated the evidence. The rest will be up to the jury. Come, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Uh huh. Uh, Gene?

[Lucasto]

Yes, Archie?

[Archie Goodwin]

Now that my life expectancy has increased, what are you doing tomorrow night? I got a scram.

[Lucasto]

Lancaster seven five, eight, three.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'll be ringing your bell. Oh, Mr. Denby, you better do something about Lucasto's arm or he won't live to be executed. You see, the executioner likes them warm before he chills. Ah, the old homestead looks very nice, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolf]

Yes, Archie? You should stay in it more often.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, but you never get to meet babes like Jean.

[Nero Wolf]

That way you never get kidnapped either. No, but I've had to leave my home in order to rescue you.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, well, you earned a nice fee fast. Indeed, you seem doubtful about it.

[Nero Wolf]

Positive, Archie. I know I have not as yet earned my fee.

[Archie Goodwin]

Huh. You mean Denby might not turn Lucasto over to the cops?

[Nero Wolf]

Of course he will. The trouble is, you see, Lucasto did not murder Piper.

[Archie Goodwin]

No, he just thought a bullet in the heart might be good for Piper's rheumatism. Huh.

[Nero Wolf]

As it happens, Piper suffered from asthma. That's beside the point.

[Archie Goodwin]

Fine, Mr. Wolf, I'm going to take it for granted that you know who did kill Piper. I'm also going to take it for granted that you won't tell me until you're ready. But why turn Lucasto over to the police?

[Nero Wolf]

Two reasons, Archie. First, I had no proof against the real killer. Secondly, we had to supply a scapegoat in order to be permitted to leave the Danby home. You were unarmed, helpless.

[Archie Goodwin]

Go ahead, rub it in.

[Nero Wolf]

Nonsense. It was an interesting problem. I enjoyed it.

[Archie Goodwin]

It was, huh? Well, to me it's still in the present tenses. Which reminds me, as old Dr. Tidmouth said, there's always a future tense. And in that future tense.

[Jean]

Jean.

[Nero Wolf]

No, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, Mr. Wolf, stop. That girl's got a love for blood that appeals to the ghoul in me. Besides, did you notice what she does to a dress?

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, I was merely about to say that I have no objections to your dallying with the girl.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, I don't believe it. My ears need overhauling.

[Nero Wolf]

I objected only to the future tense. Why not call her now?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yeah, well, I won't pretend I understand this sudden enthusiasm on your part about my love life. Probably there's some foul scheming motive at the bottom of it, but who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth? Now, let's see.

[Nero Wolf]

Her number was Lancaster 7583.

[Lucasto]

This is the most beautiful bar and grill I've ever seen.

[Archie Goodwin]

Archie drank, you mean?

[Lucasto]

What?

[Archie Goodwin]

Never mind. Never mind.

[Lucasto]

Archie, did anybody get you? You were beautiful, too.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, a girl here and there has mentioned it.

[Lucasto]

Oh, were they liars.

[Archie Goodwin]

Now tell me, Gene, how did you ever get into the gambling den racket?

[Lucasto]

Because I'm a crook.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, I suspected that, but I want another. Think you've had enough?

[Lucasto]

I want another drink. And when Jean wants another drink. No gentleman. Who is a gentleman?

[Nero Wolf]

Jean, get down.

[Lucasto]

Oh, let me go. I don't want to climb under the table.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, under here until the barrage stops, huh? I guess the war's over. All right, Jean, get up.

[Lucasto]

No, now I'm here.

[Jean]

I like it.

[Lucasto]

I'm going to stay here for months and months.

[Archie Goodwin]

Gene, do you realize that somebody just tried to kill you?

[Lucasto]

And I thought you had such a nice, honest face.

[Archie Goodwin]

No, no, no, not me. Somebody out in the street. I don't know why, but Mr. Wolf will. Come on, pull yourself together and let's go see him.

[Lucasto]

The nice fat man. All right. I like him.

[Archie Goodwin]

You do? Why?

[Lucasto]

Because he'd make such a big.

[Nero Wolf]

Is that you, Archie?

[Archie Goodwin]

Plus Jean.

[Nero Wolf]

What made you think I wanted her here?

[Archie Goodwin]

She's one of your fans. She thinks you'd make a lovely corpse.

[Nero Wolf]

What was the reason for bringing her here?

[Archie Goodwin]

She was shot at. Did you expect her to be?

[Nero Wolf]

I expected her to be killed. That's why I sent you to her.

[Archie Goodwin]

Didn't occur to you I might be killed, too?

[Nero Wolf]

It did. I was willing to take the chance.

[Jean]

You were willing.

[Archie Goodwin]

Oh, Mr. Wolf. Jean's a little under the weather.

[Nero Wolf]

Splendid. In vino veritas.

[Lucasto]

Watch your language.

[Nero Wolf]

I mean, the people in their cups often tell the truth. A proverb of some antiquity. Who shot at you tonight, Jean?

[Lucasto]

Well, I don't know. I didn't see.

[Nero Wolf]

Has it occurred to you that you might just as easily have murdered Piper as not?

[Lucasto]

But Lucasto killed Piper. You said so yourself.

[Nero Wolf]

I lied. Furthermore, why the attack on you if Lucasto was the murderer? Why?

[Lucasto]

I don't know.

[Nero Wolf]

Did you also not know that La Coste escaped from jail earlier this evening?

[Lucasto]

You're making that up.

[Nero Wolf]

Why should I? Mr. Denby turned him over to the police, but Locuster managed to get away before being jailed.

[Archie Goodwin]

That's not crooked.

[Nero Wolf]

Incidentally, Mr. Denby will be joining us at any moment. I expected you to bring Gene, Archie. Therefore, with the exception of Mr. Piper, who is resting in the morgue, and Mr. Locasto, who is at large, we should have all the participants in the card game. With them, perhaps we can deal a new hand. Hmm.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay. Maybe it's the morgue. To tell us Piper escape. Oh, wrong again. Come in, Mr. Denby.

[Jean]

Mr. Wolf, I'm upset. I heard over the radio about Lucasto's escape. He'll try to kill us all.

[Nero Wolf]

Why?

[Jean]

Because we can testify that he murdered Piper. I beg your pardon?

[Nero Wolf]

Lucasto did not kill Piper.

[Jean]

But you said that he did.

[Nero Wolf]

The only evidence against Lucasto was the angle of the entrance of the bullet that lodged in his heart. May I remind you of the whisper you all heard in the darkness preceding Piper's death?

[Lucasto]

The whisper that said Piper?

[Nero Wolf]

Precisely. We must assume, then, that Piper turned his body in the direction of the whisper. Therefore, the angle of the wound would be wrong for La Costo, but the correct one for whoever sat opposite Piper.

[Lucasto]

I sat opposite him, but that doesn't mean I killed him.

[Jean]

Wait. You must have. Once he turned, the bullet must have come from opposite him. Only possible way. That means Eugene.

[Lucasto]

No, no, it's a frame.

[Nero Wolf]

May I interrupt for a moment, Mr. Denby? If our present analysis is correct, it must have been you who whispered to Piper. Did you?

[Jean]

I. I hadn't thought about it before, but.

[Lucasto]

Denby, you're lying.

[Nero Wolf]

No, he's not lying. Continue, Mr. Denby.

[Jean]

Well, when the lights went out, I wanted to tell Piper something.

[Archie Goodwin]

He.

[Jean]

He turned to me, and that's when he was shot.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, you've taken all this down in.

[Archie Goodwin]

My prettiest shorthand, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolf]

Good.

[Lucasto]

I don't know why you're doing this, Denby. Maybe you think if I take the wrap, you'll get the club. But remember, Locasto's still free. He's gunning for all of us. But it'll be you, especially you, he'll want. Maybe you can talk a jury into setting me up for something I didn't do, but you won't live to gloat about it.

[Nero Wolf]

Go.

[Jean]

Shut up, Gene. You killed Piper.

[Nero Wolf]

And who.

[Lucasto]

Who's that?

[Nero Wolf]

This is, of course, the murderer of Mr. Piper. No comments. Archie, the door, if you please.

[Lucasto]

But you said I was the one who.

[Jean]

What kind of idiocy is this?

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, I said the door.

[Archie Goodwin]

Okay, but shall I ask him in or sock him?

[Nero Wolf]

You will act as the situation demands.

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, sir. But for once, I'd like to know what the situation is. Raise them good wind and keep them that way.

[Jean]

I'll back up into the living room.

[Archie Goodwin]

I don't back up. Good. My gear. You want it here? Never mind. I'll strip A gear.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, what are you doing?

[Archie Goodwin]

Just what the situation demands. Backing up in case your knowledge of armaments has failed you. Our little friend Chuck here is. Pointing a.38 revolver at me.

[Nero Wolf]

Won't save him from the chair.

[Archie Goodwin]

Maybe not, but it could give me quite a pain in the stomach.

[Jean]

Chuck, what do you think you're doing?

[Archie Goodwin]

You double crossing louse.

[Nero Wolf]

Gentlemen, if you can.

[Jean]

So you thought you'd run to the.

[Archie Goodwin]

Fat dick and pin it all on me, huh?

[Jean]

Denby, you don't know what you're talking about. We haven't even mentioned you.

[Archie Goodwin]

You're sure of that, huh? Then why did Wolf phone me and.

[Jean]

Tell me you were about to sing? Wolf phoned you? Yeah, said you were getting ready to.

[Archie Goodwin]

Feed me to the electrician up the river.

[Jean]

Oh, he was making a stab in the dark, Chuck, trying to start something. That so, Wolf?

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, will you read Chuck your notes about Mr. Denby's statement regarding the whisper?

[Jean]

Well, that doesn't mean it could be Mr. Stewart. Read me the notes, Goodwin.

[Archie Goodwin]

Here it is. I quote, when the lights went out, I wanted to tell Piper something. He turned to me. That's all I need to hear. Chuck, you were selling me out after.

[Jean]

Hiring me to knock off Piper. You dumb gunman. Now you've given Wolf what he wants. A confession. I was trying to pin it on Gene. That's what you say now. It's kind of late though.

[Archie Goodwin]

Too late for you? No. Goodbye, Mr. Denby. Nice shooting. Check.

[Jean]

Stay put.

[Archie Goodwin]

Goodwin. The rest of you, I'm leaving. The police wouldn't approve, but let me have your gun, wise guy.

[Jean]

You know something?

[Archie Goodwin]

I've been thinking.

[Nero Wolf]

Can you think if I was to.

[Archie Goodwin]

Knock off you and Goodwin, me and Gene could split the club between us and nobody'd ever know who killed Piper. Very whimsical, Chuck, but if you don't mind.

[Nero Wolf]

Ah gee, don't be an idiot.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, if I have to get shot, I prefer it to happen when I'm moving forward. Okay, come and get it, Goodwin. March right up, nice and easy and take it. I'm coming. Would somebody mind telling me why I don't fall down? I've been shot. Well, that's not the way to talk to a man who's just. But hey, Chuck is lying down.

[Nero Wolf]

He. He did.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, there's been a mistake. I didn't shoot him. He shot me.

[Nero Wolf]

Archie, stop blabbering. Neither of you shot the other. As a matter of fact, I shot the Lucasto Casto. Angie. Well, I thought he escaped. No, I'm not crazy. I do not escape the fat one, he phones the police to tell them how I am innocent. Yes, I had the police announce the escape. However, for reasons of, should I say strategy?

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, on account of there are no bullet holes in me, you can say whatever you like, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolf]

Thank you, Archie. That announcement helped heighten the tension our murderers were under. And then they explode. The fat one, he says to me, locasto, wait in the next room.

[Archie Goodwin]

Watch careful.

[Nero Wolf]

Remember, there's trouble.

[Archie Goodwin]

I watch now.

[Nero Wolf]

Now there's no more trouble.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, place looks a lot tidier now with all those bodies removed, huh?

[Nero Wolf]

Indeed.

[Archie Goodwin]

I'll get you the bottle of beer. But first make with an explanation.

[Nero Wolf]

Case was crystal cleared, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Maybe, but I'm no crystal gazer. Sure, I know. Denby had things arranged in advance with Chuck in case anybody held a better hand than his own Piper did. So Denby whispered to Piper after kicking the light switch and set him up for a shot by Chuck from the doorway. The angle would provide evidence against Lucasto.

[Nero Wolf]

True. However, we had only Denby's word for it and Chuck's that the door was locked.

[Archie Goodwin]

All right, we know. But you knew before Denby and Chuck blew up.

[Lucasto]

How?

[Nero Wolf]

The oil spots on the rag, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Well, they only showed the gun advanced when the murderer threw it away. Spattered oil. Very well kept gun.

[Nero Wolf]

They showed more than that. Where were those spots in relation to the gun? Think back, Audrey.

[Archie Goodwin]

Spots in relation? Oh, sure. They were between the gun and the door.

[Nero Wolf]

Therefore, the gun must have been thrown from the door, bounced twice, staining the rug before reaching its final destination.

[Archie Goodwin]

Ah, I get it now. That told you who'd fired the gun, but there wasn't proof enough. So you set up a nice atmosphere of suspicion and had the boys give each other away. All right, Mr. Wolf, you're a genius and you may have your beer.

[Nero Wolf]

Thank you, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

As for me, I'm not a genius, but I remember her phone number. So if you'll excuse me, Mr. Wolf.

[Nero Wolf]

You're excused, Archie.

[Archie Goodwin]

Thanks.

[Nero Wolf]

But before you call that number, may I remind you that Jean is a girl of macabre tastes who appeals to.

[Archie Goodwin]

The goo in you. Sure, you may. But why bother?

[Nero Wolf]

In order to be able to warn you that a ghoul and his money are soon parted. Good night, ajim. Ah.

[Archie Goodwin]

You have been listening to the new Adventures of Nero Wolf, starring Sydney Greenstreet. Tonight's transcribed story was based on the characters created by Rex Stout. This is an Edwin Fatiman program. In the cast were Gerald Moore as Archie Goodwin and Betty Lou Gerson. Jay Novello, Howard McNear, Barney Phillips and Bill Johnstone. Next week at this same time, Nero, Wolf and Archie will bring you the Case of the Calculated Risk. Don Stanley speaking. Three chimes mean good times on NBC.

[Ryan Reynolds]

If you're a maintenance supervisor for a commercial property, you've had to deal with everything from leaky faucets to flickering light bulbs. But nothing's worse than that ancient boiler that's lived in the building since the day it was built 50 years ago. It's enough to make anyone lose their cool. That's where Grainger comes in. With industrial grade products and dependable, fast delivery, Grainger can help with any challenge, from worn out components to everyday necessities. Call clickranger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done. 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. Yep, switching and saving with GEICO feels just like that. Get more with geico.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, we had another Wolf heading out episode. This one I definitely bought into the reasons for it, but I like the fact that we got the solution to the case in the office. It was a good mystery with a lot of twists and I think the writers did a good job on this one. Well, I've continued to listen through a wide variety of radio detective and crime shows and I took a listen to Mr. District Attorney. I definitely liked the show and had some good writing on it, but it wasn't really a detective show. There wasn't a whole lot of mystery to most of the episodes I listened to. So Mr. District Attorney will go on our Not Planning to Do list. Well, that'll do it for today. We'll be back tomorrow with Let George do it. In the meantime, send your comments to box13reattectives.net cast your vote for the show every month, once a month on podcast alley podcastally.greatdetives.net and if you haven't done so already, please rate our show on itunes. But from Boise, Idaho, this is your host Adam Graham signing off.

[Ryan Reynolds]

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. Yep. Switching and saving with Geico feels just like that. Get more with Geico coming up this.

[Adam Graham]

Week on the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon.

[Nero Wolf]

Well, boy?

[Archie Goodwin]

Yes, Mr. Finley.

[Nero Wolf]

Where are you, boy?

[Jean]

What about my house?

[Archie Goodwin]

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

[Nero Wolf]

You said you'd be over with a down payment. What do you made of, boy? Rock, Meatball or pint?

[Archie Goodwin]

Something has come up, Mr. Finley.

[Nero Wolf]

I got 15 people after this house.

[Adam Graham]

Listen to the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon, Snackwagon, Net or wherever you get your podcasts.