"Nero Wolfe: The Case of the Vanishing Shells" - Detailed Summary
Introduction
In the October 22, 2024 episode of "Old Time Radio Nero Wolfe", hosted by Adam Graham, listeners are immersed in a classic detective tale featuring the brilliant and reclusive detective Nero Wolf, portrayed by Sidney Greenstreet, and his astute assistant Archie Goodwin, voiced by Gerald Moore. Titled "The Case of the Vanishing Shells," this episode delves into the mysterious death of a theatrical producer amidst threats and intrigue within the bustling New York City theater scene.
Characters
- Nero Wolf: A genius detective known for his exceptional intellect and reluctance to engage in fieldwork.
- Archie Goodwin: Nero Wolf's charismatic and proactive assistant who handles investigations outside the office.
- Doris Moray: An aspiring actress who becomes the client seeking help against threatening notes.
- Emil Stoner: A theatrical producer whose sudden death becomes the central mystery.
- Paula Kenyon: Emil Stoner's divorced ex-wife and current fiancée to playwright David Banning.
- Rick Hunter: The director associated with Emil Stoner's productions.
- David Banning: The playwright engaged to Paula Kenyon and a key figure in the unfolding mystery.
- Inspector Kramer: The local homicide inspector involved in the investigation.
Plot Summary
The Threatening Notes
The episode begins with Doris Moray contacting Archie Goodwin about receiving threatening notes that demand she withdraw from the cast of Emil Stoner's upcoming production. Worried about her career and fearing for her safety, Doris insists on seeing Nero Wolf, but due to his preference for remaining in his brownstone, Archie takes on the role of intermediary.
Doris Moray [05:10]: "Very well, Mr. Goodwin, but I would prefer to see Mr. Wolf."
The Client's Dilemma
At a hotel, Doris Moray meets with Archie Goodwin, expressing her determination not to be intimidated by the threats. She mentions her involvement with Rick Hunter and the tension arising from her potential lead role in the new play.
Doris Moray [05:57]: "Other? Is that all I mean to you? What can they divulge that'll harm us?"
The Murder
During their meeting, news breaks that Emil Stoner has been found dead in Paula Kenyon's apartment. Archie Goodwin rushes to the scene, discovering Stoner's body with peculiar clues: a horoscope folder, an unlit cigarette with Paula's monogram, and a missing hat. Nero Wolf advises Archie to dig deeper, emphasizing that a body is always present in true cases.
Nero Wolf [13:02]: "Have you found a body yet? Call me after you find the body."
Investigation Unfolds
As Archie investigates, inconsistencies emerge. The absence of Stoner's hat and the presence of the gun link back to Doris Moray, who owns a .25 automatic rifle. Further scrutiny reveals that the threatening notes and the gun point towards a premeditated attack. Nero Wolf instructs Archie to interrogate key suspects, including Paula Kenyon and playwright David Banning.
Archie Goodwin [16:03]: "I own a gun. A small .25 automatic, but it's not here."
Confronting the Culprits
In a dramatic courtroom-like confrontation, Nero Wolf presents the amassed evidence to the suspects:
- Rick Hunter: Alibi questioned as he claims to have been in the cocktail lounge all afternoon.
- David Banning: Initially appears unfazed but reveals motive tied to Paula Kenyon and the casting dispute.
- Paula Kenyon: Engaged to Banning and connected to Stoner through professional ties.
- Doris Moray: Reveals ownership of the gun but denies involvement.
Nero Wolf [27:35]: "And you still had a motive to kill him?"
The Twist and Resolution
Through meticulous analysis of the evidence, including the absence of empty shell casings despite multiple gunshots, Nero Wolf uncovers that the murderer cleverly concealed the gun and the shell casings to mislead the investigation. He deduces that David Banning orchestrated the murder to secure his position with Paula Kenyon, manipulating events to eliminate Stoner and remove competition for his desired spotlight.
Nero Wolf [28:35]: "You filmed with rage, you got your gun... and shot him as he sat reading a horoscope."
Key Clues
- Unlit Monogrammed Cigarette: Found in Stoner's hand, linking back to Paula Kenyon.
- Missing Hat: Indicates an unusual departure from Stoner's habits, suggesting the killer's familiarity with his routines.
- Lack of Empty Shells: Points to the murderer's attempt to hide the evidence of the gunshots.
- Horoscope Folder: An unusual item that may hold personal significance or coded messages.
- Gun Ownership: Doris Moray's possession of a firearm connects her to the scene, though motives point elsewhere.
Notable Quotes
- Nero Wolf: "I've gone out. I won't start on anything tonight." [03:25]
- Archie Goodwin: "Nero Wolf's office, Archie Goodwin speaking." [03:11]
- Nero Wolf: "Either a body beautiful. Or a dead one." [13:07]
- Archie Goodwin: "I'm a very stupid fella." [18:33]
- Nero Wolf: "When did you see him last?" [14:06]
- Archie Goodwin: "Let George do it." [32:23]
- Nero Wolf: "Some beer, Archie?" [29:15]
Conclusion
"The Case of the Vanishing Shells" masterfully weaves a tale of ambition, jealousy, and deception within the competitive world of theater. Nero Wolf's keen observations and Archie Goodwin's relentless pursuit of the truth illuminate the intricate web of relationships and motives that culminate in uncovering the true perpetrator. The episode not only showcases classic detective storytelling but also highlights the enduring chemistry between Wolf and Goodwin, making it a standout installment in the Nero Wolfe series.
Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for Wolf's deductive brilliance and the timeless allure of Old Time Radio mysteries.