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Would you hand me that, please? Thank you. Now, let's see. Survey. Survive. Susanna. Suspect. Ah, here we are. Suspense. Meaning held in doubt, expressing doubt. The state of being uncertain, undecided or insecure. State of anxious expectation or waiting for information such as to keep one in suspense. Therefore delay acquainting him with what he is eager to know. Suspense. Hello and welcome to Stars on Suspense with another Hollywood legend in radio's outstanding theater of thrills. Our leading man this week is John Payne, a big and small screen star whose most famous movie gets a lot of play during the holiday season. Born in Roanoke, Virginia, Payne studied drama at Columbia University and voice at Juilliard, and he was soon seen on the Broadway stage. Payne went west to Hollywood in the mid-30s, where he was first under contract with Warner Brothers and then later with Fox, and it was his last movie with Fox that became the one he's best remembered for. Payne played Fred Gailey, the attorney who woos Maureen Ohara and defends Edmund Gwen's Kris Kringle in the Christmas classic Miracle on 34th Street. After he left Fox, Payne bounced between studios where he starred in noir crime dramas, westerns and adventure films. Payne, always in search of a good vehicle for himself, optioned the rights to Moonraker, Ian Fleming's third James Bond novel. But he gave up the option when he learned he couldn't get the rights to the entire series of books. That's an interesting historical Hollywood. What if If John Payne had played Agent 007? On the small screen, Payne starred in the western drama the Restless Gun, an adaptation of the Six Shooter, a radio series starring Jimmy Stewart, and he made his final screen appearance in a 1975 episode of Columbo, where he appeared alongside Janet Leigh. Off screen, Payne had a near death experience that could be the stuff of movies. In 1961, while crossing Madison Avenue, he was struck by a car and the impact tossed him into the air. When he landed, it was face first in the car's windshield. His leg was broken and his skull was fractured, but after months in a cast and facial surgery, he made a complete recovery. Not long after that, Payne largely retired from Hollywood, having made a comfortable living from his California real estate investments. John Payne made only one appearance on Suspense in one of my all time favorite episodes from June 7, 1945. It's Two Sharp Knives, adapted from the story by Dashiell Hammett. The author of the Thin man and the Maltese Falcon, was adapted for radio by another master of mystery, John Dixon Carr. This story was first produced on suspense in 1942. But this is the better version. Payne plays a small town police chief who nabs a wanted man. But the next day the man is found dead in his jail cell and it turns out the wanted poster was a fake. Now Payne has to figure out who set up this man to be arrested and how he met an untimely end while under lock and key. Frank McHugh, another Broadway and big screen actor, makes his only suspense appearance. Here he plays Payne's loyal deputy. This is a great mystery with dialogue right out of Hammett's short story. And John Payne makes for a great hero. Finally today, with Christmas right around the corner, we'll hear John Payne recreate his most famous screen role as the Lux Radio Theater presents Miracle on 34th Street. In this broadcast from December 20, 1948, Mr. Payne is joined by his co stars Maureen O'Hara and Edmond Gwynne. But before we make merry will have a tale of murder. John Payne stars in Two Sharp Knives right after these messages. Hey, Hap. Well, hello, Santa. Why, it's Wilcox. Now what are you doing in that costume, Harlo? Going to a Christmas party, Hap. Oh, what's in the sack? Why, a load of merry motoring. In this box I've got smoother performance, you see. 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And remember, you're always right with Autolite. Life is swell when you keep well. That's why post 40 Bran Flakes have become America's largest selling bran flakes. Every 1 ounce serving of Post 40 Bran Flakes provides bran to help prevent irregularity due to lack of bulk in the diet. They're so delicious tasting and so good for you too. Tomorrow, serve America's favorite brand, Flakes. Post 40% Bran Flakes. Good evening. This is your Rexall family druggist with a welcome from the 10,000 independent druggists who have made the word Rexall part of our own store names. We've done that because we recommend and sell the 2,000 or more drug products made by the Rexall Drug Company. Like Rexall Milk of Magnesia, for example. Here's the milk of Magnesia that's so pure and creamy smooth, so free from that unpleasant earthy taste. Even children spot the difference. Ask for the Rexall Milk of Magnesia at Rexall drugstores everywhere. And remember, you can depend on any drug product that bears the name Rexall. And now, a tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. Now the Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California, presents Suspense. Tonight, Roma Wines bring you a suspenseful play by dashiell Hammett called Two Sharp Knives and starring John Payne and Frank McHugh. Suspense is presented for your enjoyment by Roma Wines. That's R O M a Roma Wines, those excellent California wines that can add so much pleasantness to the way you live. To your happiness in entertaining guests, to your enjoyment of everyday meals. Yes, right now a glassful would be very pleasant as Roma Wines bring you a remarkable tale of suspense. And with the drama called Two Sharp Knives and with the performances of Mr. John Payne as Scott Anderson and Mr. Frank McHugh as Wally Shane, Roma Wines hope indeed to keep you in suspense. Shortly after 2am A poker game was breaking up at Ben Kamsley's. The doctor coroner of Deerwood City, Scott Anderson, Deerwood's efficient chief of police, and Wally Shane, his easygoing assistant, were just about to leave. Talk about thieves. Our own chief of police committed nothing less than larceny the way he won that last buck. Yeah, and having won it, I noticed he's losing no time in making off with the swag. Why don't you boy boys just break down. Admit you don't know how to play like old Professor Scott here. You couldn't win a poker hand if it was on a punch board. Ah, come on, Wally. Let's get out of here before these amateurs break my heart. Okay, Scott, Anything you say. Where are we heading for, chief? Just across the street, Wally. Railroad station. Oh, shucks. Aren't you afraid of the excitement? Don't you think that watching the 2:11 come in does have to be too much for your blood pressure? Well, if it is, Wally, you can Always. Carry on. You've been a fair imitation of an assistant to me for some time now. Yeah? Yeah. If anything happens to me, you'd be chief. Don't worry. It won't be any harder for you to fool the public as chief. Hi, Elmer. Hi. Oh, howdy, Scotty. Well, hey, old Wally. Hi, Elmer. It's kind of late for you big to be around, isn't it? Oh, I don't know. We sort of figured we'd put the town to bed tonight. How's it till 11, on time? Right on the nose, Wally. Right on the nose. She ought to be blowing for the bend in just about three seconds now. By golly, she proved Mrs. Early. That's her now. Why, you expecting anyone? Honest, Scotty. No, Elmer, I'm not expecting anyone. Wally and I just thought we'd mosey over and watch her come in, that's all. You know, Elmer, you can never tell who might get a off, though. Jesse James or Jack the Ripper or even your Aunt Gussie. Yeah, I guess you're right, Wally. Well, here she be. Pardon me just. But I got to be rolling the wang and out to the Baby Star. How's it going? Oh, I can't complain. I can't complain, Captain. Well, maybe you can, Elmer, but I sure can. You hold us up with that freight there. How much more? No, no, this. This is the last few now. Well, there you are, Cap. So done. Okay. See you tomorrow, Elmer. Hey, Scott, you see what I see? You mean, do I see the man who just got off that train? The answer is yes. Well, he's a ringer for the guy we got that circle about. That is the guy. Well, then, what do we do now? We take him, Wally. Let's go. Whatever you say, Scott. Here he comes over toward the taxi stand. Driver, I want to go to the Deerwood Hotel. I. Oh, never mind. I see the hotel sign just a few blocks down the street. Sorry, I'll walk. Hello, Furman. Hm? Oh, I. I don't believe I. You're Lester Furman, aren't you? Yes, I am. Philadelphia. Yes. I'm Scott Anderson, chief of police here in Deerwood. I. What. What's happened to her? Happen to who? Oh, no, you don't. You think you can pull that sort of stuff with me? You're very much mistaken. Ah, look. Okay, Scott, you silly. Let me get a quack at that mug. Wait a minute. Wait a minute, gentlemen. Hold it, Wally. Hold it up. Well, Furman, I. I'm sorry. For a moment there, I thought that you weren't really a policeman. Thanks. Guess I look almost human in civvies until. Until I saw the other gentleman's uniform. I thought you were a hold up man, Mr. Scott. Never mind the thanks. It was silly of me. I'm sorry. Well, let's get going before anything else happens. Are you taking me to police headquarters? Mm. What for? Philadelphia. I. I don't think I understand you. You understand. You want it in Philadelphia, don't you? I'm wanted in Philadelphia. Yeah. Got a cigarette? Oh, yes, of course you are. What am I wanted for? Murder. Here we are. Here's the circular on Lester Fuhrman. It was sent out by the Trans American Detective Agency in Philadelphia. Fifteen hundred dollars reward for the arrest and conviction of Lester Furman, alias Lloyd Fields, alias J.D. carpenter for the murder of Paul Frank Dunlap in Philadelphia on December 8, 1942. Oh, no. Take a look at it. Well, it's a lie. You're Furman, aren't you? Yes. The photograph reproduced in the circular is a picture of you, isn't it? Yes. Yes it is. But I can't understand you. Better sit down. What we got here? I got Lester Furman. Oh, that fella. Duck. You lucky stiffs. Now you and Wally spent a grand and a half reward though. Gee, I've never seen nothing like it. If it ain't vacations in New York at the city's expense, it's reward Muller. George, someday if you don't remember you're the jailer around here and not the D.A. you're gonna be wearing your teeth on the outside of your lip. And I'll be the guy who arranged it that way. You understand? Oh, just cause you caught a guy who's hot in Philadelphia. It's a lie. I never killed anybody. I won't be framed. I won't be framed. Oh, shucks. Take it easy, Furman. Save it for the Philadelphia police. We're just holding you for them. If anything wrong, it's there, not here. But. But it's not the police. It's the Trans American detective, Mr. Anderson. I suppose you're sure there's nothing I can do? There's nothing anyone can do till morning. All right, George, you take Furman now and lock him up. Come along, darling. We ain't had nobody in our little Hooshkar for three days running. You'll have it all to yourself, just like a sweet at the Ritz. Well, good night and thank you. Make him as comfortable as you can, George. If he wants anything set in okay, he's valuable, huh? Now if Some bum didn't mean a nickel to you. Maybe I ought to take a pillar off my own bed for him. And nuts. He's just like the rest of them to me. Shut up. Perhaps you forgot my remark about your teeth a while back. George, any day now I'm gonna forget your uncle's county chairman and throw you back in the gutter just to see how high you'll bounce. Remember that. Do all the talking you want, but do what I tell you. Oh, shuck, Scott. George don't mean nothing. He's just money mad. Okay, okay. I'm going home now. If it's anything urgent, I can be reached there. But I don't want to be disturbed unless it's urgent. Hello? Hello, Scott? This is Wally. Yeah, Wally. Oh, what time is it? It's five after six in the morning and you'd better come right down. Scott. That fella Fuhrman's hugging himself. What? Hung himself gapped by his belt from a window bar. Deader than a mackerel. I'll be right in. Wally. Phone Ben Kemsley. Tell him I'll pick him up on the way down. Oh, shucks. No doctor's gonna do Furman any good now. Well, I won't have him hurt to have him looked at. You better phone the county court at Douglasville too, and file a routine report. Already did that. And once more, hold on to your seat. The D.A. is on the way over in person. The D.A. i'll be there before you hang up. For suspense, Roma Wines are bringing you with stars Mr. John Payne and Mr. Frank McHugh, whom you've heard in the first act of Two Sharp Knives by Dashiell Hammett, which is Roma Wines presentation tonight of suspense. Between the acts of suspense, this is Truman Bradley for Roma Waynes. Elsa Maxwell, famed hostess, makes this suggestion for added mealtime enjoyment. It's smart, yet simple to dress up ordinary meals. For a festive note. Spread your table with a brightly colored cloth, a centerpiece heaped with fresh fruits and nuts, a basket of crispy brown hot rolls, and at each plate, a glistening glassful of golden Roma Sauternes, well chilled. A most welcome suggestion from Ms. Maxwell. And as you enjoy Roma California Sauterne, you'll be delighted with the flavorful delicacy of this truly distinguished table wine. Like all Roma wines, Roma Saturn is always unvaryingly good. The goodness of selected grapes picked at the peak of perfection in sunny California's choicest vineyards. Carefully pressed, the rich natural juices guided to perfection unhurriedly by the ancient wine skill of Roma's famed wineries. Good Roma wines never vary, are always enjoyable, yet cost only pennies a glass. Remember, because of uniformly fine quality at reasonable cost, more Americans enjoy Roma than any other wine. R O M A Roma wine and now, Roma wines. Bring back to our soundstage John Payne as Scott Anderson, Deerwood City Chief of Police and Frank McHugh as Assistant Chief Wally Shane in Two Sharp Knives, a play well calculated to keep you in suspense. Come on in, Chief. Good old ted Carroll. The DA's here and he's plenty hot under the collar. Yeah? What's he burning about? Oh, he's just mad. He's run up quite a phone bill for us too. Been calling Philadelphia every couple of minutes since he got here. What kept you so long? I. I couldn't get my car started. Well, let's go in. Hello, Ted. Listen, Scott, what is all this? All what? This. This fiddley d. This hanky panky. I suppose you mean Furman. Wasn't it suicide? Sure it was suicide. I just telephoned. Transamerican dug a guy out of bed there. They phoned me just a few minutes ago and said they'd never send out any circulars on Furman. They didn't want him for murder or anything else. All they knew about him was he used to be a client of theirs. I don't know what to say, Ted. I don't either. What on earth kept you so long, Scott? Car stall. Came as quick as I could. Well, what makes you so edgy, Ted? Oh, nothing, I guess. It's just the district attorney in me. Oh, shucks, gents. If you're not careful, you're liable to give the impression that you two don't like each other. Okay, okay, Wally. I'll quit if he will tell me what's wrong, Ted. Well, there's plenty wrong, Scott. Everything's wrong. First, that trans American thing. They never sent out any circulars about Furman. And I'll get this. I talked to the Philly police just before you came in. There wasn't any Paul Frank Dunlap murder down there that they know about. They've got no unexplained murder for December 8, 1942. What did you get out of Furman before you let him hang himself? Only, well, that he was innocent. Well, didn't you grill him? Didn't you find out what he was doing in town, Wally? Didn't you? Oh, shucks. What for? He admitted his name was Furman. The circular description fitted him. The photograph was him. Trans American Detective agency supposed to be on the level. Philadelphia wanted Furman. We didn't. But Scott. Oh, sure, Ted, sure. If I'd known he was gonna hang himself. But then if your aunt wore pants, she'd be your uncle. You said Furman had been a client of Transamerican. Then tell me what kind of a job they were doing for him. His wife left him a couple of years ago and he had them hunting for. For five or six months, but they never found her. They're sending a man up here tonight to look things over. Yeah? Yes, and I might as well tell you, Scott, they're going to raise plenty of trouble over this. Yeah, yeah, I know that, Ted. There usually is trouble when somebody dies in a jail cel. Chief Anderson? Yeah, yeah, come in. They told me I'd find you here. I'm Carl Rising, assistant manager of Transamerica Detective Agency in Philadelphia. This is Mr. Wheelock, who was Lester Fuhrman's personal attorney. How do you do? Glad to know you, Mr. Rising. Mr. Wheelock. This is Wally Shane, my assistant. Hi. How do you do? I know you gentlemen are already in possession of most of the details concerning Mr. Fern from the time he arrived in Deerwood until the time of his death. But perhaps you don't know that the police of most towns in our corner of the state have also received copies of this reward circular. Hmm. Get it for him, will you, Wally? Here you are. Why, this circular is a forgery. Wow. You're sure It's a forgery, Mr. Rising? Oh, yes, yes, there's no doubt about it. And it's an excellent forgery. The paper, style and type are almost exactly like those we use at Transamerica. Almost, but not quite. Well, what do you know? A forgery. Tell me, Mr. Wheelock, was Mr. Furman a native Philadelphian? Oh, my, yes. He was well known, respectable, prosperous citizen of Philadelphia. Married, wasn't he? In 1934, he married a 22 year old girl named Ethel Bryan, daughter of a Philadelphia family. And the Furmans had a child. Isn't that right, Mr. Wheeler? Yes. Born in 1936, but the child lived only a few months. Mrs. Furman's wife disappeared after the child's death. What year was it she disappeared? Mr. Rising should remember that his agency worked on that matter. Yes, I remember it very well. Mrs. Furman disappeared in 1937. We never heard anything of her again. Although Furman spent quite a lot of money trying to locate her. Furman never divorced her, huh? No, sir. Should say not. He was very much in love with her. And he seemed to think that the kids dying made her a little screwy so that she didn't know what she was doing. That's right, isn't it, Mr. Wheelock? Well, that is my belief, Mr. Rising. You said Furman had money, Mr. Wheelock. How much did he have? And who gets it? I should say his estate will amount to perhaps a half a million dollars left in its entirety to his wife. His wife, huh? That's quite a handy sum for anyone to have, huh, Wally? Yeah. Tell me, do either of you know why Furman came to Deerwood? No, I. No. Oh, shucks. You were his attorney, Mr. Wheelock. Don't you know if he told his servants or his office, employers or someone why he came here? I know of no one of whom he told. And I can't see that these questions of yours are getting us anywhere. Why do you persist in asking them? Because, Mr. Wheelock, everything shows that somebody framed Furman into the Deerwood jail and that frame up drove him to suicide. Nothing shows anything else. And there has to be something else. A lot else. Well, Chief, what do we do now? I'm going across the street to Fritz Undertaking parlor. Maybe I'll find something else there. You find anything at the undertaking parlor, Scott? No, not much. Well, I was over there myself just after you left and I did. You did what? Well, I saw it. Save it, Wally. Come in. Hello. Am I butting into anything here? Oh, shucks, no. You know the coroner's report is always welcome at a time like this, Doc. What's on your mind, Doc? Well, is it all right to talk here? I mean, can anyone hear us? No, no, go ahead, talk. Listen, Scott, two of those bruises showed. What bruises? Furman. Up under the hair. There were two bruises. But why didn't you tell me? I am telling you, Scott. You weren't here when I made my examination. You were off chasing some stick up hoodlums. This is the first time I've seen you since then. But why didn't you spill the stuff about Furman's bruises when you were testifying at the inquest? Ben, I'm a friend of yours. Do I want to put you in a spot where people say you drove this fellow to suicide by third degreeing him too rough? Aw, shucks, Doc, you're nuts. How bad was Furman's head? Well, that didn't kill him, if that's what you mean. There's nothing the matter with this skull. Just a couple of bruises that nobody would notice unless they parted the hair. It killed him just the same. You and your friendship. That. Hello? Yeah, Fritz. Couple of ladies. Who are they? Oh, okay, I'll wait. I've got to run along now, Scott. Okay. I'll see you later. Right. It's Fritz at the undertaking parlor. A couple of ladies want to see Furman's body. He's going to ask why. That's what I was going to tell you, Scott. When I was over there, I saw. Hello? Hello. Oh, are you one of the ladies who wants to see. You're Furman's wife, Mrs. Furman? Hmm? Oh, then by all means, Ms. Furman. Only when you're through over there, I want you to come over to my office. I've got some things I want to ask you. Right. What do you know about that Furman's wife? That's what I've been trying to tell you. I saw him. And one of them's Hotshot Randall, a babe with a record as long as your arm. She's one of that mob you had me working on in New York last summer. She know you? Sure, but not by my right name. She thinks I'm a Detroit rum runner. No, no. I mean, does she recognize you just now? I don't think she saw me. Anyway, she didn't give me a tumble. Okay, Wally, stick around a while, but stay out of sight. Maybe I'll be bringing these dolls back with me. Whatever you say, Chief. Come in. Chief Anderson? That's right. Mrs. Furman? Yes. This is my friend, Mrs. Crowder. Mrs. Crowder? Thought your name was Randall. Why do you care? Chief, I'm not hurting your town any. Okay. Now, before anybody says anything, I want to tell you something. Furman didn't commit suicide. He was murdered. Murder? My husband, murdered? We got alibis. We were in New York. We can prove it. You're likely to get a chance. How'd your people happen to come down here murdered? Who's got a better right to come down here? She was still his wife, wasn't she? She's got a right to look out for her own interest, hasn't she? Yeah, that. That reminds me of something. Excuse me just a second. I gotta make a phone call in the next room. Take it easy. Hey, Hamill. Yeah, Chief? I want you to have someone get hold of that lawyer, Wheelock, before he leaves town, and tell him I want to see him. And is Wally around? No, he's not here. He said you told him to keep out of sight. I'll find him for you, though. Right. Tell Wally I want him to go to New York tonight. Send Mason home to get some sleep. He'll have to take over Wally's night trick. Okay. I'm feeling better, honey. Now, Mr. Anderson, do you think I had. That I had anything to do with Lester's. With his death? I don't know, Mrs. Furman. I know he was killed. I also know he left something like half a million does dollars. All right, Chief. Now don't be a clown. The kid here didn't have a thing to do with whatever you think happened. No, no, no. We read about Lester Freeman committing suicide in yesterday morning's paper and about there being something funny about it. And I persuaded her she ought to come down to Deerwood, and that's all. Mr. Anderson, I wouldn't have done anything to hurt Lester. I left him because I wanted to leave him. But I wouldn't have done anything to him for money or anything else. If I'd wanted money from him, all I'd had to do had been to just ask him for it. That's so. He used to put ads in the paper telling me if I wanted anything to let him know, but I never did. You can ask his lawyer, Mr. Wheelock. Anybody who knew anything about it can tell you that. Yeah, that's the truth, Chief. For years I've been telling Ethel she was a chump not to tap him, but she never would. I had a hard enough time getting her to come for her share. Now that he's dead and got nobody else to leave her to, I wouldn't have heard him. Why did you leave him then? Well, after the baby died, I just. Excuse me. Oh, yeah, Hamill, you gave Wally the message. Yeah. I want him to go to New York tonight. Okay. Where is he? Huh? He is home. Okay, thanks. This Circulars what got your husband on the jug? Mr. Furman, did you ever see that picture before? No. Why, that. It can't be. It's a snapshot I had have. It's an enlargement of it. Who else has one? No, nobody that I know of. I don't think anybody else could have one. Have you still got yours? Yes. I. I don't remember whether I've seen it recently. It's with some old papers and things, but I must have it. Well, Mrs. Furman, it's stuff like this that's got to be checked up. Neither one of us can dodge it. Now, there's two ways we can play. Yes. I can hold you here on suspicion till I've had time to check things up, or I can send one of my men back To New York with you for the checkup. I'm willing to do that if you'll speed things up by helping him while you can. And if you'll promise me you won't try any tricks. I promise. I'm as anxious as you are to track this down. All right. All right. How'd you come down? We Dr. That's my car. The big green one across the street. Fine. Then my man can ride back with you. But no funny business. Funny shamany. What do you expect her, huh? Oh, send him in. Hello, Mr. Wheelock. Is this really Mrs. Fman? Yes, that's really her, all right. How do you do? You wait here, Wheelock. I'll be back in a little while. Come on, girls. Where are we going? We're going to solemn murder, sister. Who lives here? Wally Shane, my assistant. He's the man who's going to drive you to New York tonight. All right. Here we are, Wally. Who is that? Scott. Wally. Oh. Come in. Ladies first. Harry. Harry. Hello, Ethel. You two know each other, huh? Well, shucks. We just sort of. Y'all reach for that gun, Wally? I've got you covered. I guess you win, Scott. I guess I do. Why didn't you get out of town, Wally? No, it's Harry. You must have known when you saw these two women. I did. But when Hamill phoned and said you were going to send me to New York, I figured I was getting a break. You fooled me plenty on that one, Scott. Yeah. You gonna come along nice and quiet, Wally? Oh, shucks. Why not? Okay. And I'm afraid I've gotta say it. Walla Shane, I arrest you for the murder of Lester Furman. You comfortable in here, Wally? Can't complain for a cell. Say, Scott. Hmm? You didn't just stumble on all this, did you? Nope. Furman had to be murdered by copper. Only a copper with no reward circuit is well enough to make a good job of forging one. Only a copper, one of my coppers would be able to walk into Furman's cell, bang him across the head and string him up. When you told me you knew the Randall woman, well, there it was. What got you like this, Wally? Oh, shucks. What gets most saps into jams? A yen for easy dough. I'm in New York, see, Scott, working on that Dutton job for you. Then I run into this Ethel Fuhrman, and she goes for me like a house afire. Like her, too. So that's dandy. But one night she tells me about how much dough her husband's got. And how it would all come to her if. Well, I got to thinking. Thinking what? I think she's nuts enough about me to marry me. I still think she'd marry me if she didn't know I killed him. So, anyway, I did it. I swiped that snapshot. I sent those Circlers out to a lot of places, not wanting to point too much to this one. And when I was ready, I phoned Furman and I told him to come to the Deerwood Hotel that night. And sometime before the next night, he'd hear from his wife, Ethel. I knew he'd fall for any trap that was baited with her. Oh, shucks. I guess I'm not as sharp as I thought I was. Maybe you are, Wally, but that doesn't always help. Old man Kemsley is Ben's father. Used to have a saying, to a sharp knife comes a tough stake. I'm. I'm sorry. You did it, Wally. I always liked you. I know you did. I was counting on that too, Scott, but. Oh, shucks. And so closes two Sharp knives. In which Roma Wines have brought you John Payne and Frank McHugh as stars of tonight's study in suspense. Suspense is produced, edited and directed by William Speer. Before our stars return to the microphone, let me say a word for Roma Wines. The sponsor of suspense, Elsa Maxwell, noted authority on smart entertaining, has this suggestion. When the thermometer rises, it's time for cooling, refreshing drinks. Enjoy the taste thrill of frosty cold thirst quenching Roma refreshers. A Roma Sherry Cobbler is a gay and colorful drink, simple to prepare with distinguished roma California Sherry. Ms. Maxwell has an excellent idea there. And America's smartest drink, the Roma Sherry Cobbler, takes but a jiffy to prepare. Here is how in a tall glass, dissolve 1/2 teaspoonful sugar and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Half fill the glass with delicious Roma sherry. Add ice to fill, stir well, and you have the most delightful summer refresher you've ever tasted. You know, June is the month of weddings and anniversaries. And a most distinguished way to honor this year's and yesteryear's June bride is by serving delicious Roma California Champagne. Its delightful pale gold color, distinctive dryness tell you that here is a truly fine champagne. Roma Champagne. No better way to say happy days ahead than with Roma Champagne. This is John Payne. I'm sure I speak for Mr. McHugh, too, in saying how delighted we have been to be invited to appear on suspense. Before Mr. McHugh brings you a message from our government. I would like to pass along to you the billboard for next Thursday's half hour of Suspense. It will star that polished and sinister actor Clifton Webb in a radio play based on John Dixon Carr's novel the Burning Court. Okay, Frank, take over. The battle of the Pacific has moved into high gear. Our fighting men are doing more than their share in this big second half of our fight for victory. The current Seventh War lone drive is an opportunity for you to do your share. The money you invest in war bonds now will increase in value. We'll be your ready cash for tomorrow. Buy those extra war bonds today. John Payne will soon be seen in the 20th Century Fox Technicolor production, the Dolly Sisters. Frank McHugh can soon be seen in State Fair from the same studio next Thursday, same time. Mr. Clifton Webb will be your star of suspense. Presented by Roma Wines R O M A Made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Lux presents Hollywood Lever Brothers Company. The makers of Lux Flakes bring you the Lux Radio theater. Starring Maureen O'Hara, John Payne and Edmund Gwen in Miracle on 34th Street. Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. William Keeley. Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. Our Christmas present to you is the new Christmas classic of our time. Miracle on 34th Street. It's wrapped in a gay covering of laughter, tied with a bright ribbon of good humor and decorated with the three sparkling stars of the 20th Century Fox picture. Marine O'Hara, John Payne and Edmund Gwen. This is a wonderful story for the whole family. And perhaps some families may be gathered around a Christmas tree as they listen. Others will be putting up this happy sign of the season in a few days with lights and ornaments and the shining snow that can be made with Lux Flakes. Later we'll tell you how to do this trick with Lux. But right now it's curtain time for the play that proves there's a Santa clause. Miracle on 34th Street. Starring Maureen O'Hara as Doris, John Payne as Fred and Edmund Gwen in his Academy Award winning performance as Kris Kingle. Its Thanksgiving Day in New York City. On a broad avenue adjoining Central park, an annual event is being joyfully awaited. The spectacular parade presented by Macy's department store to herald in the Christmas season. Away from the crowd are two of Macy's public relations experts. He's simply wonderful, Mrs. Walker. Just, just look at him on that float. The most realistic Santa Claus we've ever had. Why, he didn't even need any padding, did he? Padding? Why didn't you Notice his tummy. So round, so firm, so fully packed. Well, now that everything's under control, where on earth did you find him? I. I don't know. I just turned around and there he was. And to think that the man whose place he took was intoxicated with a breath that would knock over a reindeer. Oh, just think if Mr. Macy had seen him. What if Mr. Gimble had seen him? Competition between our stores is tough enough. Well, the parade starting. Let's stand at the curb. Not I, Mr. Shellhammer. I'm going home to relax. Anyway, I can see it from there. I live just around the corner. Oh, so you do. Well, I'll see you tomorrow, Mrs. Walker. And congratulations on finding the best Santa Claus in Macy's history. Certainly is a wonderful parade, Susan. Just look at that clown. Gosh, what a giant. Giant? Mr. Gailey, there are no such things as giants. Well, not now, maybe, but in olden days. Really, Mr. Gailey. And you a liar. Well, what about the giant that Jack killed? You know, Jack and the Beanstalk. Everybody knows that's a fairy tale. And I agree with my mother. Fairy tales are silly. Come in. Good afternoon. I am Susan's mother. My name's. Oh, hello, Mother. I'm watching the parade. Mr. Gailey invited me. Hello, darling. Susie's told me quite a lot about you, Mrs. Wood. She told me quite a lot about you too. The man in the front apartment. Well, this is all part of a plot, Mrs. Walker. I'm very fond of Susie, but I. I also wanted to meet you. At least you're Frank. Oh, don't even mention the name. Why not, Mother? Well, that Santa Claus you see, is a last minute substitute. But why? Remember the way the janitor was last New Year's? Oh, my. Tight as an owl. I. I see. Susan doesn't believe in Santa Claus either. That's right. She never has. Well, that's the end of the parade. Mother, I've been thinking. It's Thanksgiving and there are only two of us. Couldn't we invite Mr. Gailey? Well, I. Oh, please don't bother. I'll. I'll just have a sandwich or something. But we have such a big turkey. Please, Mother? Please. Well. Well, I did. I asked her. All right, Mr. Gayley. Susie. Shh. You asked. Fine. Susan. Dinner's at 3, Mr. Gailey. Hello, Mrs. Walker. Yes, Mr. Schellhammer. Your maid said you were at Thanksgiving dinner. But I. I just had to tell you. Your Santa Claus was stupendous. Well, thank you. Mr. Macy himself wants him to be our toy department. Santa Claus. Oof. Fine. Can you hire him? Oh, I already have. Oh, he's a born salesman. I just feel it. Good. We'll talk about it in the morning. Thanks for calling, Mr. Shellhammer. Here he is, Mr. Shellhammer. Here's Santa Claus. Oh, thank you, Alfred. Thank you. Good morning, Santa Claus. Good morning. Now, before you go to the toy department, here's a list of toys that we have to push. You know, things were overstocked on. Now, you'll find that a great many children will be undecided as to what they want for Christmas. And when that happens, you immediately suggest one of these items. Do you understand? I certainly do. Fine. That's fine. Now, take the list, and Alfred here will show you to your throne in the toy department. And don't you forget you're working for Macy's. Are you really Santa Claus? Why, of course I am. What do you want for Christmas, little boy? I want a fire engine with a real hose that squirts real wet water. And I won't do it in the house. I'll only do it in the backyard. I promise. And I promise you'll get your fire engine. You see, Mama? I told you you'd get me one. That's fine. That's just dandy. Your white mama wants to thank Santa Claus too. Yes, madam. Say, what's the matter with you? Now, now, now, what's the trouble? I told you before, didn't I? The kid wants a fire engine, but there isn't one to be had anywhere in town. Macy's ain't got any. Gimbles ain't got any. Nobody's got any. My feet are killing me. And you say, okay, he gets the fire engine. But you can get those fire engines at Schoenfeldt's on Lexington Avenue. Only $4.50. A wonderful bargain. Schoenfeldt? Yes. Hey, I. I don't get it. Oh, I follow the toy market very closely. Macy's sending people to other stores? Yes. Are you kidding? The one important thing is to make the children happy. Whether Macy's or somebody else sells the toy doesn't matter. Don't you feel that way? Who, me? Oh, yes, sure. Only I didn't know Macy's did. I don't get it. I just don't get it. Who's next, please? Right this way to see Santa Claus. All right, little girl, you're next. Of course, little girl, you want some roller skates? Well, you shall have them too. Mama. Mama, he's gonna bring me some roller skates. And he has some fine skates here at Macy's. Haven't you, Santa Claus? Oh, they're good skates, all right, but not quite good enough. Now, I left some really wonderful roller skates at Gimbels. I'm sure Gimbels have just what this good little girl wants. Mr. Shellhammer. Are you Mr. Shellhammer? Gimbles. Gimbles. That's just what he did. Say, Gimbles. The sales lady said I should speak to you. Gimbels. I just wanted to congratulate you and Macy's on this wonderful new stunt you're pulling. Gimbels. Imagine a big outfit like Macy's putting the stunts spirit of Christmas ahead of the commercial. Gimbals. From now on, I'm gonna be a regular Macy customer. All right, Mortimer. We're going. Gimbles. And there's the toy department over there. Mr. Gailey, you certainly know all about Macy's store, don't you, Susan? Well, that's because my mother works here. But I still. I still think it's silly bringing me here to see Santa Claus. I just feel that when you've talked to him, you might see Mr. Gailey. I'm certainly willing to try. Well, well, what a fine young lady, eh? And what's your name, little girl? Susan Walker. What's yours? Mine? Kris Kringle. I'm Santa Claus. Oh, you don't believe that, eh? Uh, you see, my mother's Mrs. Walker. But I must say, you're the best looking Santa Claus I've ever seen. Really? Your beard, for instance. It doesn't have one of those things that goes over your ears. That's because it's real. Just like I'm really Santa Claus. Now go ahead. Pull it. Oh, my. My goodness. It is real. Yes. Yeah. And now, what would you like me to bring you for Christmas? Nothing, thank you. Whatever I want, my mother will get. If it's sensible and doesn't cost too much. That's quite right, Susan. Oh, Hello, Mother. Hello, Mr. Gayly. Hello. The explanation for all this is very simple. Your maid's mother sprained her ankle. She had to go home. So she asked me to bring Susie down to you. And as long as we were here, I. I figured we might as well say hello to Santa Claus. He has real whiskers, Mother. Susan, would you mind standing over there a minute? If you want me to. I. I shouldn't have brought Susie to see Santa, Is that it? Now you're making me feel completely heartless. I'm sorry. Don't you see? I tell Susan That Santa Claus is a myth. And you sure are a very convincing old man with real whiskers. Whom is she to believe? Yeah, that's right, isn't it? When Susan was a baby, her father and I were divorced. And ever since then, I've protected my child by teaching her reality. If you don't believe in fairy tales and fantasy, you can never be hurt or disillusioned. We were Talking about Susie, Mrs. Walker. And I must ask you to let me raise her as I see fit. All right, dear. The store's going to close soon. We'll run along to my office. Alfred said you wanted to see me, Mrs. Walker. Oh. Oh, yes. Come in. I. I'd be grateful if you'll please tell Susan that you're not really Santa Claus. That there actually is no such person. But, Mrs. Walker, not only is there such a person, but here I am to prove it. No, no, no, no. You misunderstand. I. I want you to tell her the truth. Now, what's your real name? Kris Kringle. And I always tell the truth. Susan. I'll bet you're in the first grade. Second grade. I mean, your real name. Well, that is my real name. My goodness, the second grade. Very well. I have your employment card right here. I look it up on that. That's a very cute dress you have on, Susan. It's from Macy's. We get 10% off. Oh, so you always tell the truth, do you? Look at your employment card. Name? Kris Kringle. Address? Brooks Memorial Home, Great Neck, Long Island. You may call the home, if you'd care to confirm that, Mrs. Walker. It's a home for elderly gentlemen. Would you also like me to confirm this? What's that? Date of birth. As old as my tongue and a little bit older than my teeth. Place of birth? North Pole. Now, really, Why, I believe you doubt me, Mrs. Walker. And this tops everything. Next of kin? Oh, that. Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen. I'm sorry to have to do this, Mr. Kringle, but the. The Santa Claus that we had two years ago is back in town, and I feel that we owe it to him to. But have I done something wrong? No, no, no. It's. It's just that we feel. Oh, excuse me. Hello? This is Mr. Shellhammer. Mrs. Walker. Drop whatever you're doing. Mr. Macy wants to see us immediately. Oh, I'll be right up. I'm afraid I'll have to be very abrupt with you. I have to see Mr. Macy. You'll be paid for the full week. Mr. Kringle. And I'll send your check to that address. Oh, come right in, Mrs. Walker, Mr. Schellhammer. Thank you, Mr. Macy. Now, about this new policy you two initiated. Macy's Santa Claus. Sending customers to Gimbels. But I can explain everything, Mr. Macy. You don't have to explain a thing. Just look at my desk. 42 telegrams and over 500 phone calls. Grateful parents expressing undying gratitude to Macy's Department Store. Why, you don't say. From now on, not only will our Santa Claus continue in this manner, but every salesperson in the entire store. You mean that if we haven't got what the customer asks for, we're to. We're to send him where he can get it? No high pressuring and forcing a customer to take something he doesn't really want? I think that's wonderful, Mr. Macy. We'll be known as the helpful store, the friendly store. The store that places public service ahead of profits in consequent, we will make more profits than ever. As for you, Mrs. Walker and Mr. Shellhammer, you'll find a more practical expression of my gratitude in your Christmas envelope. Oh, thank you. Thank you. And tell that wonderful Santa Claus I won't forget him either. As a matter of fact, I'll tell him myself in the morning. Yes, indeed, Mr. Macy. Good night. Good night. Good night, Mr. Macy. And thank you again, sir. Oh, imagine. A bonus. Yes, well, what's the matter with you, Mr. Shelhammer? I just fired him. Who? Santa Claus. Oh, no, no, no, no, no, you couldn't have. But I did. He's crazy, Mr. Schellhammer. He really thinks he is Santa Claus. I don't care if he thinks he's. He's the Easter Bunny. Find him. Act 2 of Miracle on 34th street will continue in a moment. Well, Libby, have you given Santa your Christmas list? Yes, indeed, John. And number one on my list is a pair of Chinese pajamas with a three quarter coat and little upside. Just like the ones Mata Torren wears in Rogue's Regiment. Perhaps you'd better have the wardrobe mistress of Universal International Show. Santa. What's she mean? Well, I'm sure Dick Powell or Stephen McNally could give him a good description. They found Marta very glamorous in this modern story of the French Foreign Legion. And what a villain Vincent Price is in Rogue's Regiment. I was on the edge of my seat through the whole picture, and you talk about a pair of pajamas. Well, they were very special. Marta liked them so well. She had four pairs made for her personal wardrobe and she was delighted when they told her she could lux them. That's about the easiest care in the world. Especially now with the new tiny diamonds of Lux. Another triumph of the famous Lever Laboratories. These tiny diamonds are so much faster. They burst into suds the instant water touches them. And make wonderfully rich suds that last and last. Don't colors look marvelous when they're luxed so fresh and new? No wonder smart girls say they won't risk wrong washing methods. Tests prove that with gentle care with luxe flakes really makes a difference. Luxed slips and 90s stayed new looking three times as long. And that's just like getting three pretty slips for the price of one. A really thoughtful Santa would put a box of luxe flakes in every lingerie gift next Friday night. Here's our producer, Mr. William Keeley. Act two of Miracle on 34th Street. Starring Marie O'Hara as Doris, John Payne as Fred and Edmund. Gwen as Kris Kringle. It was a frantic few hours that Doris spent last night. Rushing out to the Brooks Memorial Home in Long island and assuring Kris Gringo that Macy's wanted him back as Santa Claus. Now Kris is again presiding over the crowded toy department. While in her office, Doris and Mr. Shelhammer. Don't you understand? Mr. Shellhammer, that old man with the nice white whiskers. Insists that he is Santa Claus. Why, he's out of his mind. What if he should have a fit or something? Oh, no. I've got to tell Mr. Macy. But maybe he's only a little crazy. Anyway, you can't be sure until he's examined. Will you send me to Mr. Sawyer? Sawyer in Personnel? He's paid to examine employees, isn't he? And now, by the way, what do you think of this? What is it? A full page ad Macy's is running in tomorrow's newspapers. Macy's is running it? But it's all about the other stores. Gimbals and sags. I know, I know. Mr. Macy's idea to help our customers find what they want. It's revolting, isn't it? That Santa Claus certainly has started something. Oh, well, I'll get a hold of him in his lunch hour and send him up to Mr. Sawyer. So I changed my clothes, Mr. Sawyer, and came right up. Oh, well, then that's your own beard, huh? Oh, yes, yes. Interesting. Complex in back of that. Where do you carry a cane? Always carry a cane, Mr. Sawyer. Well, that is when I wear street clothes. I carved this cane out of a runner from one of my old Sleighs. What's that? What's that with a fine, solid silver top? Who was the first president of the United States? Oh, give me a difficult one like who was. Who was vice president under James Monroe? I'm conducting this examination. The answer is Daniel D. Tompkins. Oh, you're. You're a rather nervous man, aren't you, Mr. Sawyer? Tell me, do you. Do you get enough sleep? My personal habits are no concern of yours. Now, what hand am I holding up? Right hand. How many fingers do you see? Three. Oh, dear. Oh, dear. You bite your nails too. Oh. Stand up. Now. Feet together. Arms extended. Muscular coordination test. I've taken dozens of these tests, Mr. Sawyer. Are you happy at home? What? That will be all, Mr. Kringle. The examination is over. Thank you. And it may interest you to know I've been happily married for 22 years. Very happily married. Delighted to hear it. Goodbye, Mr. Sawyer. Miss Prawn. Yes, sir? Get Mrs. Walker on the phone. Yes, sir. But your wife, Mr. Sawyer. She's called four times already. Now, you tell my big, fat wife to shut up and mind her own business. Here's Mrs. Walker, sir. All right. Hello. Oh, I was just going to call you, Mr. Sawyer. Oh, there's a Dr. Pierce stopping by this afternoon at 3. Who's Dr. Pierce? He's the physician at the Brooks home. I thought we might discuss Mr. Kringle's case with him. There's hardly any point in discussing it, Mrs. Walker. Obviously, the old man should be discharged. So, Dr. Pierce, Kringle should be dismissed immediately and sent to a mental institution. Now, just a minute, Mr. Sawyer. He's deluded. Saying that he's Santa Claus. It's a delusion for good, I found. He only wants to be friendly and helpful. His whole manner suggests aggressiveness. Look at the way he carries that cane, Mrs. Walker. Naturally, I can't discharge that loony. So when he exhibits his maniacal tendencies. Please realize the response is completely yours. Well, I'm right back where I started, Mrs. Walker. I assure you, Kris Kringle has no maniacal tendencies. But if there's the slightest possibility of his causing any trouble. What trouble? All that needs happen is a policeman. Ask his name. Kris Kringle, Klang, clang and Macy. Santa Claus lands up in the psychopathic ward. Well, you can prevent that very simply. Now, there must be someone here at the store who could rent him a room. Then they could both come to work together. I just as soon he avoided that long train ride to Long island anyway. You mean, sort of take Custody of him? Mm. Do you think that Mr. Kringle would agree to that? I'm sure he'll agree. Well, in. In that case. Now, let me see. Who do I know who could rent him a. I'm glad you're going to have dinner with us, Mr. Kringle. Oh, thank you, Susan. I'm also very glad you're going to live next door with Mr. Gailey. Oh, why? Because you're nice to talk to. Oh, I say, what a fine young man that Mr. Gailey is, eh? Just think. Allowing me to share his apartment, a mere stranger. He did it because Mother hinted to him. Oh, well, anyway, I'm very grateful. Shall I tell you what I did in school today? By all means. Any games? Yes, and a very silly game too. They played Zoo. And each child was supposed to be an animal. But, Susan, they were just pretending. But that's what makes the game so silly. Oh, well, of course, in order to play games, you need imagination. Oh, that's when you see things, but they're not really there, huh? Well, yes, yes. But you know, to me, imagination is a place all by itself. Now, you've heard of the French nation and the British nation. Yes. Well, this is the imagination. A very interesting place too. Now, how would you like to be able to make snowballs in summertime, eh? What? Or be the Statue of Liberty in the morning. And in the afternoon fly south with a flock of geese? Well, I'm quite sure I'd like it, but. Oh, it's very simple. Very well, anyway, look here. The next time they play zoo, you can be a monkey. But I don't know how to be a monkey. Don't you? Oh, I'll show you. Now, first you bend over a little like this, see? Now let your arms hang loose, see? Like this? Yes, that's fine. Fine. Now put your hand over here and start scratching. See? That's it. That's it. That's excellent, Susan. That's as fine a bit of scratching as I've ever seen. Yeah. Now. Now you start chattering. Chattering? Yes. Now listen, see? And keep scratching. Now then, look here. We'll do it together, see? Chatter and scratch and scratch and chatter, see? That's fine, Susan. Fine. You're doing beautifully. Beautifully. Yes. Susan. Susan, are you still awake? Uh huh. I just come in to say goodnight, Susan, that's all. Now look here, about Christmas. There must be something you'd like for Christmas. Well, I've certainly thought about something, Mr. Kringle. You have? Well, what is it, Eh? Tell me. It's right here on the night table. See? I tore this page out of a magazine. It's a picture of a house. Oh, that's what you want, is it? A doll's house? Colonial architecture? Oh, not a doll's house. A real house. A real house? Yes. And if you're really Santa Claus, you can get it for me. Now, now, now, wait a minute, Susie. What could you possibly do with a big house? Live in it with my mother. And a backyard with a big tree to put a swing on. And a garden and a. Oh, well, why even discuss it? Susie. Susie, could I. Could I keep this picture just. Just in case? I guess so. Thank you. There. Thank you. Well, Mr. Gayly's waiting for me. Good night, monkey. Good night, Mr. Kringle. Take whichever bed you want, Mr. Kringle. You're very kind, really. Tell me, Mr. Gailey, what is it you just do for a living? Huh? Oh, I'm a lawyer. Haslip. Haslip. Sherman and MacKenzie. Oh. And you were. You like living here in the city? Well, it's convenient. But someday I'd like to get a place on Long island. Huh? Not a big house. Just one of those junior partner deals around Manhasset. Oh, one of those little colonial houses, eh? Yeah, yeah, Yeah. A little colonial house would be swell. Good, Good. Yes, You're. You're quite fond of Mrs. Walker, aren't you? A lot of good it does me. She lives in a cast iron shell that's just a little difficult to penetrate. Oh, well, you must try a little harder, Mr. Gailey. You know, Mrs. Walker and that child are a couple of lost souls. And it's up to us to help them. No. Yeah, she. Oh, well, shall I turn out the light? No, no, no. I'm not gonna be cheated out of this. You know, all my life I've wondered about it, and now I'm going to find out. Tell me, does Santa Claus sleep with his whiskers outside or inside the cupboards? Oh, outside, of course. Outside. By all means. The cold air makes them grow. Thank you very much. Oh, come in, Mrs. Walker. Come in. Thank you. Mr. Macy, I've just heard something very exciting. You have? Well, let me tell you something very exciting. Our policy of being kind to customers has tripled our sales. Now, what do you think of that? That's wonderful, Mr. Macy. And Gimbels thinks it's wonderful too. Gimbels? Gimbels are adopting the same policy. Well, is that so? And it gives me an idea. As long as Gimbels are doing the same thing, why not? Some pictures for the newspapers. Pictures? Yes. You and Mr. Gimble shaking hands. Shaking hands? R.H. macy and. And Gimbel. Well. Well, yes, yes, yes. Why not with Santa Claus? It's a great idea, Mrs. Walker. Macy and Gimble Shaking. Thanks, Mr. Smile. That's enough pictures, gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you very much. Well, Mr. Gimble. Come on, R.H. now we'll go over to my store and get some really good pictures. Oh, just a minute. I have something here for Santa Claus. Here you are, Mr. Kringle. A check in appreciation of all you've done, Mr. Macy. Why, that's most kind of you. I didn't think you were that generous, RH that's quite a check. What are you going to do with it, Mr. Kringle? Well, I have a friend, a Dr. Pierce. He needs a new X ray machine. You buy the machine through the store. 10% discount. Nonsense. Come over to Gimbal's. We'll furnish it at cost. Keep it up, gentlemen. Keep it up. At this rate, my friend will have a whole new hospital. How did the pictures turn out, Mr. Kringle? Oh, fine, Alfred. Fine. How about a game of checkers during lunch, eh? Not today, Chris. I. I don't feel so good. Oh. What's the matter, Alfred? Oh, nothing much. You remember I was telling you how I like to play Santa Claus over at the Y and give out packages to the kids? Yeah. Well, I was telling Mr. Sawyer about it, and he says that's very bad. That psychologically it's all wrong. Wrong to be nice to children. Well, he says guys who play Santa Claus do it because when they was young, they must have done something bad. Now they do something they think is good to make up for it. See, it's what he calls a guilt complex. Alfred, what else has he found wrong with you? Oh, nothing much. Just that I hate my father. I didn't know it, but he says I do. Excuse me. Hey, ain't you gonna have lunch later? Right now I have an appointment with Mr. Sawyer. What do you mean, breaking into my office like this? Are you a licensed psychiatrist? What business is it of yours? I have great respect for psychiatry. And great contempt for meddling amateurs who go around practicing it. Oh, shut up. You ought to be horsewhipped. Taking a boy like Alfred and filling him up with complexes and phobias. I think I'm better equipped to judge that than you. Just because Alfred wants to be kind to children, you tell him he has a guilt complex. Having the same delusion you couldn't possibly understand. And don't you wave that cane at me. Either you stop analyzing, Alfred, or I'll go straight to Mr. Macy and tell him what a contemptible fraud you are. Get out of here. Get out of here before I have you thrown out. There's only one way to handle a man like you. Maybe this'll knock some sense into you. Oh. Oh. Help. Oh, My head. My head. Oh. Good day, Mr. Sawyer. Ms. Prawn. Get me the police. Get me Mrs. Walker. Get me the psychopathic ward in Bellevue Hospital. You can see Mr. Kringle now, Mr. Gailey. Thank you, Nurse. Hello, Chris. Hello, Fred. Chris, I've been speaking to the doctors. They said they've given you some tests. Oh, yes. Same old tests. Except this time you failed to pass them. Chris. You deliberately failed. Why? Why? Well, because I had great hopes, Fred. I had a feeling Mrs. Walker was beginning to believe in me. And now. Now I discover she was only humoring me all the time. But this wasn't Doris's idea at all. Mr. Sawyer had you sent up here before she even knew about it. But why? Why didn't she come to me and explain things? Because she didn't want to hurt you. Oh. Well, it's not just Mrs. Walker. It's. Now. Take Mr. Sawyer. He's contemptible, dishonest, deceitful. Yet he's out there, and I'm in here. Well, if that's normal, I don't want it. But you can't just think of yourself, Chris. What happens to you matters to a lot of other people. People like me, who believe in what you stand for. And people like. Well, like Susie, who are just beginning to. Chris, you're letting us down. I. Well, Fred may be all right. I. Of course, you're right. I ought to be ashamed of myself. Let's get out of here. Now, wait a minute. You flunked your mental examination but good. Oh, yes, so I did. Well, anyway, you're a lawyer. You fix it. Hey, look, I can't just. Now, I won't let you down, and you won't let me down. Chris, now take it easy. Look, there'll have to be a hearing. If you're going to be committed, it has to be before a judge. Well, if I can do anything at all, it'll have to be in courtroom. Sit tight, Chris. I'll get an idea. I have to get an idea. You sent for me, Mr. Maze? Here? I certainly did, Mr. Sawyer. I brought my family to the toy department to see our Santa Claus. And our Santa Claus isn't there. He's in Bellevue? Yes, Mr. Macy. Because he's a lunatic. Yes, sir, a lunatic. Lunatic, my foot. Now, you listen to me, Sawyer. You get that case dropped right away. Or you'll have another lump to match the one he gave you. But it's out of my hands. Mr. Kringle goes to court in the morning. Well, just see that he's back in the toy department by afternoon. Now get out of here. Oh, Mr. Gailey. Mr. Gailey. Yes. I've been looking all over for you. I'm Mr. Sawyer. Oh, so you're Sawyer. Yes. I. I was just speaking to the court clerk, and he said you represent Mr. Kringle. Well, I represent Mr. Macy. Then I'll see you in court. No, no. That's what I wanted to speak to you about. Now, Mr. Macy would like to drop the whole case right now. You see, we're most anxious to avoid any publicity. No publicity, huh? Well, that's very interesting. Oh, then you'll cooperate? You know something, Sawyer? You've just given me the idea I've been searching for. Oh, good. Good. If I'm going to win this case, I'm going to have to have public opinion, and plenty of it. And publicity is just the way to do it. Thanks, and so long, Mr. So, Mr. Gailey. But, Mr. G. Look at these newspapers, Chris. Here. Evening Dispatch. Doctors doubt sanity of Santa who launched goodwill campaign. Oh, my. Daily Bulletin. Macy's Santa Claus to have lunacy hearing. What's this one? The New York Express. Is Kris Kringle crazy? Court case coming. Kiddies cry calamity. You've driven the United nations clear. Back to page five. Well, get a good night's sleep, Chris. We go before Judge Harper at 10 tomorrow morning. We pause now for station identification. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Our stars will return with Act 3 of Miracle on 34th street in a moment. When a new player signs a contract with 20th Century Fox. She soon gets well acquainted with Ms. Helena Sorrell, head dramatic coach. Helena, do you like to watch your pupils perform in the picture? Oh, of course, John. Because I take a personal interest in them. I'm especially proud of Betty Grable and her new picture, When My Baby Smiles At Me. Betty's become a really fine dramatic actress. She certainly has. She and Dan Daly are magnificent as a couple of vaudeville hoofers. Betty's costumes in When My Baby Smiles At Me gave me a thrill. And I was amazed how many things the wardrobe department washed with luxury flakes. It reminded me of my theatrical days when I was on the road and lived in a couple of trunks. A box of luxe flakes in each. That's absolutely true, John. I was never without it in my hotel or at the theater. Well, then you. You've probably discovered that the new tiny diamonds of lux are more wonderful than ever. They're so much faster and richer. Do more for you, too. They remove soil which other types of suds can't. Leave things cleaner, fresher and luxe flakes keep colors lovely. You're right there. That's why it's foolish to risk wrong washing methods that may fade colors. Actual tests show that with gentle luxe flakes care colors stay lovely up to three times as long. That's a good tip for girls who get nice blouses and sweaters for Christmas. Right you are. And thank you for coming tonight, Helena Sorrell. We return you now to William Keeley. The curtain rises on the third act of Miracle on 34th Street. Starring Marie O'Hara as Doris, John Payne as Fred and Edmund, Gwen as Chris. For a few weeks, a jolly elderly gentleman named Kris Kringle. Has been working minor miracles as Macy's Santa Claus. But now his sanity has been seriously questioned. And in a crowded courtroom, Judge Harper listens patiently. As the assistant district attorney summons Kris to the witness stand. Now, this is not a trial, Mr. Kringle. It's just a hearing. So you don't have to answer any questions. Now then, where do you live? Please. Well, it seems to me that's what this hearing will decide, won't it? Mr. Kringle, do you believe that you are Santa Claus? Of course I do. That's all, you, Honor. The state rests its case. Well, Mr. Galay? Your Honor, Mr. Mara contends my client is not sane because he believes he is Santa Claus. An entirely logical conclusion. Anyone who thinks he's Santa Claus is crazy. Your Honor, you believe yourself to be Judge Harper. Yet no one questions your sanity because you are Judge harper, do they? Mr. Kringle is the subject of this sanity hearing, not I. Well, you, Honor, I intend to prove that Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus. Mr. Mayor, I thought you said this was a cut and dried sanity hearing. Well, I thought it was. Your Honor, in view of Mr. Gailey's statement, I'll have to review the entire background of this case. Courts adjourned till tomorrow morning. Hello, Doris. I'm sorry I'm late. But get ready. We're really gonna celebrate tonight. What are we celebrating? Well, didn't you read the papers? Santa's mouthpiece throws bombshell on New York Supreme Court. Oh, Fred, you're not really serious about this. You can't possibly prove that Kris Kringle is Santa Claus. Well, you saw Mr. Macy and Mr. Gimble shake hands. That wasn't possible either. What does your firm have to say about it? Hayslip and MacKenzie and the rest of them. That I've jeopardized their prestige. And either I drop this impossible case, or they'll drop me. You see? So I beat them to it. I quit. Fred, you threw away a career because of a sentimental whim. Well, I'll open my own office. And what kind of clients will you get? Oh, probably a lot of people like Chris who are being pushed around. That's the only fun in law anyway. Doris, look, don't you have any faith in me at all? Oh, it's not a question of faith. It's just common sense. But faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to. It's not just Chris that's on trial. It's everything he stands for. Human kindness and love and dignity. Oh, Fred, listen. We've seen a lot of each other the last couple of weeks. I. Well, I've become fond of you. We've talked about some wonderful plans, haven't we? And then you do this. Go on an idealistic binge, throw away your security and expect me to be happy about it. And I expect too much, is that it? Well, that's then, I guess. Good night, Doris. Hello? Yes, this is Mr. Marrow. Well, can't it wait till tomorrow? I'm eating din who's been subpoenaed. Well, how do you think I feel about it? I'll see you tomorrow. Who's that? R.H. macy's been subpoenaed. Oh, my. Those reporters. They make me look like a sadistic monster who likes nothing better than to drown pussycats and tear wings off butterflies. Quiet, dear. Tommy's still awake. Oh. Oh, yeah. It'd just break his heart if he knew what his daddy is doing. I'm doing my job as assistant district attorney. Well, I'm not so sure, but that I agree with them. Mr. Kringle looks like a very nice old man, and I don't see why you have to keep persecuting him. I'm not persecuting him. I'm prosecuting him. I like the old man too, but there's nothing I can do about it. You know something, Thomas? Sometimes I wish I'd married a butcher or a plumber. Well, if I lose this case, it's very possible you'll get your wish. R.H. macy. I wonder what he's gonna pull tomorrow. Proceed to the witness, Mr. Gailey. Now then, Mr. Macy, if you recognize the defendant. Please tell us who he is. Why, Kris Kringle, of course. Do you believe him to be of sound mind? Sound mind? I wish I had a dozen like him. Mr. Macy, you are under oath. Do you believe that man is Santa Claus? Well, now, that's a rather delicate. Just think of those headlines tomorrow. Macy admits his Santa Claus is fraud. You keep out of this gimbal. What did you say? Yo. Nothing, Mr. Barlow. Nothing. Well, I wish you would. Is that man Santa Claus? Yes. In my opinion, he most certainly is. Your Honor, there is no such person as Santa Claus, and everybody knows it. Can you prove there isn't any? I. I won't even try. I'll not waste the court's time with such childish nonsense. Your Honor, the prosecution requests an immediate ruling from this court. Is there or is there not a Santa Claus? Well, now, I. The court will take a short recess to consider the question. Hello, Henry. Why, Charlie, what are you doing here? Can't an old friend visit you in your chambers? And if you ask me, you never needed a friend like you do now. This Kringle case. Well, I certainly don't see what they're making such a fuss about. Henry, that Santa Claus you've got out there on trial for lunacy. This case is dynamite. And you're coming up for re election soon. Charlie, you know what happened last night. Martha brought the grandchildren over. They. They wouldn't kiss Grandpa. They wouldn't even talk to me. Well, see what I mean? If you rule there is no Santa Claus. You better start looking for that chicken farm right now. I'm a responsible judge. How can I seriously rule that there is a Santa Claus? Because of what happens if you don't. The kids read about it, and they don't hang up their stockings. Now, what happens to all the toys that are supposed to be in those stockings? Nobody buys them. The toy manufacturers have to lay off employees. By now you've got the AFL and the CIO against you. Yes, and they're going to say it with votes, see? Oh, and the department stores are going to love you, too. Yes, sir, Henry. And what about the Salvation Army? They got a Santa Claus on every street corner. They take in a lot of money to help the poor. But go ahead, Henry. You go in there and rule there isn't any Santa Claus. But if you do, you can count on getting just two votes. Your own. And that district attorney's out There. One vote, Charlie. He. He's a Republican. Oh, well, let's get this over with. The. The question of Santa Claus seems to be largely a matter of opinion. The tradition of American justice. Demands a broad and unprejudiced view of such a controversial matter. But, your Honor, this court therefore intends to keep its mind open. We shall ask for evidence on either side. But the burden of proof clearly rests with my opponent. Can he produce any evidence to support his views? If your Honor please, I can. Will Thomas Mara please take the stand? Who, me? No. Thomas Mara, Jr. I believe he and his mother are both from court today. Hi, Papa. Hi, Tommy. Do you believe in Santa Claus? I sure do. Gosh, he gave me a brand new sled last year. Now, what does Santa Claus look like? Tommy? Well, there he is, sitting right over there. Your Honor, I protest. Overruled. Tell me, Tommy, why are you so sure there's a Santa Claus? Because my papa told me so. Didn't you? Thank you, Tommy. You can go back to your mother now. See you later, Papa. You certainly will. Your Honor. Don't forget, Santa Claus this year. I want a football helmet. Don't worry, Tommy. You will get it. Mr. Kringle, if you don't mind. I'm sorry, sir. Your Honor, the state of New York concedes the existence of a Santa Claus. But in so conceding, we demand that Mr. Gailey stop representing. And presenting personal opinion as evidence. I insist he submit authoritative proof. That Mr. Kringle here is the one and only Santa Claus. Well, Mr. Gailey, are you prepared to show that Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus. On the basis of unprejudiced authority? Well, sir. No, not now. I. I need a little time. Why not now? Tomorrow, you, Honor. Very well. Courts adjourn till tomorrow morning. Oh, brother. Now, come, Susan, dear. Finish your supper. But I can't, Mother. All those things they're saying in the newspapers. About Mr. Kringle and Mr. Mr. Gailey. They're having this trial because he says he's Santa Claus. He's so. He's so kind and nice and jolly. He's not like anyone else. I know. He must be Santa. You know something? I think perhaps you're right. Is Mr. Kringle sad now, Mother? I'm afraid he must be. Then I'll write him a letter. Maybe that'll make him feel better. I'll cheer him up. Oh, postman. Postman. Yeah, lady? Would you mind taking this letter? Oh, sure, lady. We're going straight down in the post office now. Okay, Louie. Take it away. Well, what do you know, Louie? Another letter for Santa Claus. Hey, here's a new one. Instead of the North Pole, this kid's got it addressed to Kris Kringle, New York county courthouse. Well, the kid's right. Huh? Oh, yeah, sure. They got him on trial down there. He claims he's Santa Claus. And the DA Claims he's nuts. Hey, hey, I got an idea. How many Santa Claus letters we got down there in a dead letter office? Who knows? Must be 50, 50,000 bags and bags all over the joint. I. You mean what, Flakie? Why not? Wouldn't it be nice to get rid of them all? Wouldn't it? Boy, oh, boy. Look, Louie, soon as we get to the post office, we go and see the supervisor. You know something? I bet we both get promoted. And since the defense has been unable to submit one shred of proof. That Kris Kringle is the one and only Santa Claus. And since tonight is Christmas Eve. I ask your honor. That this hearing be terminated without further delay. I protest. I do have evidence. Five minutes ago, you said you didn't. During Mr. Mara's oration, the bailiff handed my client the evidence I refer to. What evidence? This letter, your honor. Oh, yes, Mr. Kringle. It's from Susan Walker. She believes in me. This letter means more to me than anything in the world. That letter, your honor, Was delivered by the United States Post office. An official agency of the federal government. The post office department was one of the largest business concerns in the world. Last year it did a gross volume of over $1 billion. And this year, your honor, I'm sure we're all gratified that the post office is getting along so well. But what bearing has it on the sanity of that? My point is that the post office department is a model of efficiency. Furthermore, the laws of this country make it a criminal offense to willfully misdirect mail. Or intentionally deliver it to the wrong party. The state of New York is second to none in his admiration of the post office department. We're very happy to concede. Mr. Gayly's. For the record, Mr. Mara. For the record. Anything to get on with this case. Thank you, your honor. That letter just received by Mr. Kringle. Is positive proof that a copy the letter is hardly positive proof. I have further exhibits, your honor, but I. I hesitate to produce them. Come, come, Mr. Gailey. Put them here on my desk. But, your honor. I said put them on my desk. All right, boys, bring them in. Your honor. What. What is this? Empty those mail Sacks on Judge Harper's desk. Yeah. Well, you. Well, but bring them all in. It'll be fine for contempt of court. Now, now, just a second here. We'll do it, your honor. Through rain, through sleet, through courtrooms. Anything we deliver. Mr. Gailey. Your honor, every one of those letters and every one of those mail sacks. Is addressed to Santa Claus. The post office is to deliver them. Therefore, the post office department recognizes Kris Kringle to be the one and only Santa Claus. Since the United States government declares this man to be Santa Claus. This court will not dispute it. Case dismissed. And for heaven's sake, get this mail out of my courtroom. So as soon as I got out of court, I came straight to Macy's to see you. Doris. Oh, Chris, I'm so glad you won. Ah, well, we're having a big Christmas party at the Brooks home tomorrow morning. I'd like so much to see you and Susan there. We'll be there, Chris. Oh, Chris, couldn't you. Couldn't you come home now and have dinner with us? Now? Tonight? Me? My goodness, Doris, it's. It's Christmas Eve. Alfred. Alfred, look. Look who came all the way out of the home just for our Christmas party. Cress, it's. It's Mr. Macy. Mr. Gimble too. Oh, excuse me, Alfred. Mrs. Walker and Susan have to leave now. And I want to see them before they go. So forgive me, will you? But, Susie, darling, you got so many presents. Not the one I wanted. Not the one Mr. Kringle was gonna get for me. Well, what was it? Doesn't matter. I knew I wouldn't get him, but I thought he'd at least tell me. Why, Susie. I'm sorry, Susie. I tried my best. But you couldn't get it because you're not Santa Claus. Susan. Just a nice old man like Mother said. But I was wrong when I told you that you must believe in Mr. Kringle and keep right on doing it. You must have faith in him. But that doesn't make sense, Mother. Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to. What? I mean, just because things turn out the way you want them to the first time. You've still got to believe in people. I found that. Hello, Doris. Fred. Mr. Gailey. Mr. Gailey. Merry Christmas, Susie. Gosh, you just get here and we're ready to leave. Oh, I've been here. And if you're ready to leave, I'll drive you home. Before you go, here. Here's a map I've made for you. You'll miss a Lot of traffic. About four miles south, you will see Ashley Avenue. Now, that's the street you want. Ashley Avenue. Thanks, Chris. And Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas to you, friend. And to you, my dear. And to you, susie. I believe Mr. Kringle. I do. Silly, I suppose, but I do. I don't understand it, Fred. The map Chris gave definitely says Ashley Avenue. We've been on Ashley Avenue now for. Stop the car. Oh, stop the car, please. Susie. What is it, darling? What's the matter? There it is. The house. The house. Suzy, what in the world. She's running into that house. But at least there's no one home. It's brand new. It's just been built. Yeah. For sale, it says. What on earth is that child up to? Susie. Hey, Susie. Here I am. Upstairs. Now. Come right down. You know, you shouldn't run around in other people's houses. That's strange. I'll say. No, no. I mean this house. I've seen this house somewhere. I know I have. Maybe in a magazine or. Mother, it's our house. It's the one I asked him for. Mr. Kringle. Mr. Kringle, I. I know it is. Oh, you were right, Mommy. You were right, Susie. Mommy told me that if things didn't turn out just the way you wanted them at first, you've still got to believe. And I kept believing. And you were right, Mommy. Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus now. Where are you going? In back to see if there's a swing. There is one. Oh, there is one. You told her that about believing? Well, you told me. Fred. A sign outside for sale, huh? Well, we can't let her down, can we? I never really doubted you. It was just my silly common sense. Even makes sense to believe in me now. I must be a pretty good lawyer. I take a little old man and legally prove to the world that he's Santa Claus. Now, you know that couldn't be. Fred, what's the matter? There, in the corner by the fireplace. Oh, no. No, it can't be. It. It couldn't. A cane. Chris's cane. There couldn't be two canes like this anywhere in the world. Silver handle and all. Hey, you know something? Maybe I didn't do such a wonderful thing after all. Before our stars return for their curtain calls, Libby Collins wants to tell you about the wonderful way to decorate your Christmas tree. As we promised at the opening of the show. You can give your tree that fresh from the woods look. By covering it with real looking snow you make yourself from a box of luxe Flakes. So many people have asked for the luxe recipe for Christmas snow that we gave last week. We'll repeat it tonight. Listen carefully. Take a large box of luxe flakes. Gradually add 2 cups of lukewarm water and beat with an egg beater until it has the consistency of thick whipped cream. Then, with your fingers, spread the mixture over the branches of your tree. And that's all. This snowy covering dries quickly. It won't melt and lasts as long as the tree. Ask your dealer for a copy of this Christmas snow recipe. I don't know of any other decoration that costs so little, yet does so much for your tree. It looks lovely used just with tree lights. Or you can add your usual ornaments. If you prefer. Try it on your mantel decorations and table arrangements, too. It gives them a very professional look and makes the whole house look more Christmassy. Now I'll repeat that recipe. Take a large box of luxe flakes. Gradually add about two cups of lukewarm water and beat with an egg beater. While moist, spread the mixture along the branches. If you want extra glitter, shake on some shiny artificial snow before the mixture dries. Let the children help. They'll love doing it and love the snowy tree. Back now to our producer, William Keeley. Mr. Kringle's reindeer are waiting on the roof, but we've asked him to pause a moment before he leaves and come back to the footlights with Maureen O'Hara and John Payne. Ladies and gentlemen, it was a real thrill to everyone in Hollywood when Edmund Gwen topped his entire 53 years as an actor with his great performance as Kris Kringle. Thank you. Thank you very much, Bill. Everyone connected with Miracle on 34th street, from George Seton, the author director, to the prop man, help me. They all believed in Santa Claus. How could we help it? I suppose you've got a strenuous time ahead, Chris. Covering the entire world in one night. John, if everyone believed in Santa Claus, peace would break out all over the world in 30 seconds. I hope you won't be too busy to stop at my house. I'll have my stockings. Oh, well, I'll stop in, Maureen, but seems rather futile. Why, Chris? Well, I couldn't possibly fill her stocking as well as she does. I see what you mean, Bill. After that, I think you'd better tell us all about next week's play. Next week, Maureen, A play straight from your native land. It's the 20th Century Fox picture, the Luck of the Irish and the Stars. Well, we have a superb cast. There's Dana Andrews, Anne Baxter and Cecil Kellaway. This is a delightful romance presided over by a most mysterious leprechaun in the person of Cecil Kellaway. I know you'll all enjoy it. We'll be looking forward to it, Bill. And good night. Good night. Good night. Can I give anybody a lift in my sleigh? Good night. And a merry, merry Christmas. Before we meet again in this theater. The most joyful day in the year will have come and gone. There are in our time, as in every time, a few foolish men who deride the spirit of Christmas. But in every country, and in every time they are overwhelmed by those who find in it the hope and happiness of the future. By those of us who believe in our hearts that there can be peace on this earth and goodwill among all men. On behalf of Lever Brothers Company and of us in the Lutch Radio Theater, may I wish all of you the happiest of holidays. And we invite you all to join us again next Monday evening when the Luck Radio Theater presents Dana Andrews, Anne Baxter and Cecil Kellaway in the Luck of the Irish. This is William Keeley saying good night and merry Christmas. Maureen O'Hara appeared through the courtesy of 20th Century Fox producers of the Snake Pit starring Olivia de Havilland and Mark Stevens. Edmund Gwynn appeared by arrangement with Metro Goldwyn Mayer producers of the All Star Technicolor musical words and music based on the lives and music of Rogers and Hart. John Payne will soon be seen in the Paramount Picture, El Paso. Be sure to listen next Monday night to the Lux Radio Theatre presentation of the Luck of the Hour Irish starring Dana Andrews, Anne Baxter and Cecil Kellaway. Stay tuned for My Friend Irma, which follows over these same stations. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. We just heard John Payne in Two Sharp Knives and Miracle on 34th Street. That will do it for this episode. Thanks so much for joining me. I hope you'll be back next time when our star will be Herbert Marshall. And then, just in time for the holiday, we'll have our annual Christmas special where I present an Old time radio recreation of a classic Christmas film. In the meantime, you can check out down these Mean Streets, my Old Time Radio Detective podcast. New episodes of that show are out on Sundays. If you like what you're hearing, don't be a stranger. You can rate and review the show in Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com Meansts OTR now, good night until next time when we'll hear Herbert Marshall in Mortale's well Calculated. To keep you in suspense, ladies and gentlemen. The chief hope of our enemies is to divide the United States along racial and religious lines and thereby conquer us. Let's not spread prejudice. A divided America is a weak America. Through our behavior, we encourage the respect of our children and make them better neighbors. Neighbors to all races and religions. Remind them that being good neighbors has helped make our country great and kept her free. Thank you.