Episode 413 - Myron McCormick

Summary

Episode Summary: Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio) Episode: 413 - Myron McCormick
Release Date: May 22, 2025
Host: Mean Streets Podcasts

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Introduction

In Episode 413 of Stars on Suspense, hosted by Mean Streets Podcasts, listeners are treated to a captivating showcase of suspenseful tales featuring the esteemed actor Myron McCormick. This episode presents two thrilling stories: "Door of Gold" and "Madman of Manhattan," both masterfully performed by McCormick. Additionally, the episode revisits the classic mystery "No Time for Murder" from the Crime Club series.

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Story 1: Door of Gold

Original Air Date: February 10, 1957
Details:
Door of Gold introduces Myron McCormick as Philip, part of a married archaeologist duo honeymooning in the perilous jungles of Peru. The couple is on a quest to uncover the legendary hidden treasure of alien Inca gold, leading them to a mysterious door within a burial mound.

Plot Summary:

• Discovery of the Door:
  Philip and his wife Janice, portrayed by Shirley Mitchell, believe they are close to finding alien Inca gold. Their excavation leads them to a door inside a burial mound, adorned with a rising sun emblem and streams of gold.

• Deciphering the Inscription:
  The inscription reads, "Light to the seeker comes through the shafts of God." Philip interprets this as a clue to opening the door, utilizing sunlight channeled through cracks in the stones.

• Entering the Passage:
  Equipped with flashlights, spare batteries, and a rope, Philip and Janice navigate the dangerous passageways, facing booby traps and treacherous conditions set by the ancient Incas to protect their treasure.

• Encounter with Traps:
  As they delve deeper, Janice accidentally triggers a trap, causing her to fall through a pivot stone. Philip valiantly rescues her, highlighting the couple's perilous yet determined journey.

• Unveiling the Treasure:
  The duo eventually discovers a vast repository of pure gold, guarded by the spirits of the Inca sun god. However, the air circulation fails, trapping them inside. Through ingenuity and teamwork, they manage to escape just as the traps re-engage.

• Aftermath:
  With the treasure safely uncovered, Philip reflects on proving his theories and overcoming skepticism from the academic community. The story concludes with a hint of further mysteries as they compare the gold against the vanished Dr. Clayton.

Notable Quotes:

• Philip: "What have you? Finally, the Door of Oro."
  [00:54]

• Janice: "Oh, Phil, I'm so very pleased for you. They'll have to listen to you now."
  [09:45]

• Philip: "We can't open it from the inside. They'll either get it open or they won't."
  [19:44]

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Story 2: Madman of Manhattan

Original Air Date: March 8, 1959
Details:
Madman of Manhattan is an intense tale of vengeance and deception. Myron McCormick stars as Lacey Abbott, an inmate who escapes from Bellevue Hospital by impersonating his lawyer. His mission: to avenge the murder of his wife and to expose the man responsible.

Plot Summary:

• Escape from Bellevue:
  Lacey Abbott (McCormick) cunningly replaces his lawyer, Nicholas Westland, to facilitate his escape from Bellevue, driven by a deep-seated need for revenge.

• Confrontation with Martin Avery:
  Abbott confronts Martin Avery, the man who killed his wife. Their dialogue reveals Avery's tormented psyche and motivations rooted in betrayal and deceit.

• Police Tangle:
  Avery attempts to manipulate the situation by involving the police, but Abbott remains a step ahead, determined to unearth the truth behind his wife's death.

• Psychological Duels:
  The story delves into a psychological battle between Abbott and Avery, with both characters grappling with guilt, revenge, and the pursuit of justice.

• Climactic Revelation:
  Abbott's relentless pursuit leads to a heated confrontation where Avery's crimes are exposed, culminating in a dramatic resolution that underscores the futility and destructiveness of vengeance.

Notable Quotes:

• Avery: "I have my wife and child, my son, here in the apartment. So put that away."
  [40:57]

• Avery: "I was the defendant too. If a jury believes that girl, I'll go to Sing Sing for five years and I'll be disbarred."
  [64:34]

• Avery: "You’re misrepresenting. Steve. She’s not the girl we saw."
  [80:05]

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Story 3: No Time for Murder (Crime Club)

Original Air Date: September 25, 1947
Details:
No Time for Murder is a classic mystery from the Crime Club series, featuring a young lawyer named Peter Woods entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder.

Plot Summary:

• Initial Encounter:
  Peter Woods, played by Myron McCormick, is accused of assault with intent to kill by Dixie Martell. Unaware of her vendetta, Peter finds himself fighting to prove his innocence.

• Local Investigation:
  As Peter navigates through accusations, he meets Hilda Ryan, his fiancée, who becomes inadvertently involved in uncovering the truth behind Dixie's claims.

• Clues Unveiled:
  Discoveries related to antique clocks and hidden diamonds propel Peter and Hilda into a deeper investigation, revealing connections between Dixie, Steve Jackson, and the mysterious Carl Andrews.

• Final Confrontation:
  The climax revolves around exposing the real murderer, Carl Andrews, who orchestrated crimes to secure priceless diamonds hidden within antique clocks, leading to his downfall.

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Woods: "I was just getting interested in some of the titles when he was joined by a couple. What are you stopping here for, Dickie?"
  [61:36]

• Hilda Ryan: "I didn't mean. Was an accident. I killed her."
  [40:30]

• Peter Woods: "If a jury believes that girl, I'll go to Sing Sing for five years and I'll be disbarred."
  [64:34]

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Conclusion

Episode 413 masterfully intertwines suspense, mystery, and dramatic storytelling, showcasing Myron McCormick's versatile acting prowess. Through Door of Gold and Madman of Manhattan, listeners are immersed in tales of adventure and vengeance, while No Time for Murder adds a classic twist to the anthology. The episode underscores themes of obsession, the quest for truth, and the moral complexities of revenge.

Supporting Cast:

• Door of Gold:

  • Shirley Mitchell as Janice
  • Jane Novello as Juan
  • Ramsay Hill as Dr. Clayton

• Madman of Manhattan:

  • Doris Singleton
  • Carl Swenson
  • Barney Phillips
  • Norm Alden

• No Time for Murder:

  • Charlotte Lawrence as Hilda Ryan
  • Raymond Edward Johnson as Steve Jackson
  • Cameron Princess as Carl Andrews
  • Gene Ellen as Dixie Martel

Production Credits:

• Director: William N. Robeson
• Screenwriters: E. Scott Floor (Door of Gold), Gilbert Thomas (Madman of Manhattan), Stedman Coles (No Time for Murder)
• Musical Score: Amerigo Marino (Door of Gold)

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Philip (Door of Gold): "What have you? Finally, the Door of Oro."
  [00:54]

• Janice (Door of Gold): "Oh, Phil, I'm so very pleased for you. They'll have to listen to you now."
  [09:45]

• Avery (Madman of Manhattan): "I have my wife and child, my son, here in the apartment. So put that away."
  [40:57]

• Peter Woods (No Time for Murder): "I was just getting interested in some of the titles when he was joined by a couple. What are you stopping here for, Dickie?"
  [61:36]

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Final Thoughts

Episode 413 delivers an enthralling blend of old-time radio suspense with rich narratives and compelling performances. Whether unraveling ancient mysteries or navigating human psychologies, Stars on Suspense captivates its audience, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts of classic radio dramas.

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For more engaging episodes and classic tales, tune in to future releases of Stars on Suspense by Mean Streets Podcasts.

Transcript

[Host]

The hushed voice, the prowling step in the dead of night, the crime that.

[Co-Host]

Is almost committed, the stir of nerves.

[Narrator]

At the ticking of the clock, the rescue that might be too late, or the murderer who might get away. Mystery and intrigue and dangerous adventure. We invite you to enjoy stories that.

[Co-Host]

Keep you in.

[Narrator]

Suspense.

[William N. Robeson]

Hello and welcome to Stars on Suspense with another Hollywood legend in radio's outstanding Theater of Thrills. Our leading man this week is Myron McCormick, the stage and screen star who won a Tony Award for his performance as Luther Billis, one of my all time favorite characters in the original Broadway production of South Bill Pacific. Most of his work came on the stage, including starring in no Time for Sergeants alongside Andy Griffith on Broadway. But McCormick locked some memorable film appearances over his career as well. His best may be as Paul Newman's partner in the Hustler as Charlie, the friend who Fast Eddie Felson abandons in his quest to defeat Minnesota Fats. At the pool table today, we'll hear Myron McCormick starring but unfortunately not singing in a pair of suspense shows beginning with Door of Gold, originally aired on CBS on February 10, 1957. McCormick plays Philip, half of a married archaeologist couple who are spending their honeymoon on an excavation in Peru. What, you might ask, could bring them out into the field so soon after their wedding? It's Phillips belief that they're close to finding a legendary hidden treasure of alien Inca gold and they soon discover a door inside of a burial mound. Believing the treasure to lie beyond it, the couple enters the passage beyond the door where they may find fortune or meet their maker. Shirley Mitchell co stars as McCormick's wife Janice, and they're supported by Ramsey Hill and Jay Novello. Then we'll hear Madman of Manhattan originally aired on CBS on March 8, 1959. It's an encore production of the Escape of Lacey Abbott, a story that was first performed on suspense back in 1950. With William Powell in the lead role, Myron McCormick stars as a Bellevue inmate who escapes from the hospital by posing as his lawyer. He's broken out to seek revenge on the man who's responsible for him ending up in Bellevue, the man who killed McCormick's wife and and framed him for the crime. And speaking of crime, we'll close Today with Myron McCormick starring in a mystery from the library of the Crime Club. It's no Time for Murder and it originally aired on Mutual. On this anthology mystery series on September 25, 1947, we'll kick off our suspense showcase and open the Door of gold with Myron McCormick right after these messages.

[Advertiser]

Recently, in a big eastern city, a group of trained men and women called on thousands of housewives and asked this simple what kind of container do you prefer for the food you buy? An overwhelming majority of housewives said they prefer to buy food packed in glass. Among them were a great many mothers of small children, and by a ratio of more than eight to one, these mothers said they insisted on prepared baby foods packed in glass. They gave many reasons, as you might expect, but here are the three reasons mentioned most frequently. First, glass lets you see what you buy before you buy it. Second, you can heat, serve and store leftover portions of prepared baby food in the same glass container. And third, these young mothers agreed that sterilized glass containers are cleaner and more sanitary. You can buy an increasing number of the better brands of food packed in glass, and all of the better brands of prepared baby food come to you in Anchor glass containers sealed with Tampa proof Anchor vacuum caps, both products of Anchor Hawking.

[Host]

Now it's winners time again. Yes, sir. Here are the two winners. The carousel contest for the week ending November 8th. Each of these listeners wins a gorgeous $100. 17 Jewel Harman Gold Watch just for writing an interesting letter about carry salt. The ladies watch goes to Mrs. A. O. Nobles Jr. Of Gainesville, Florida. Her suggestion tells you how to remove the printed dye from sugar bags or white feed bags. She suggests you dampen the bags with kerosene and sprinkle on Kerry's table salt. Then roll them up tight and let them stand overnight. Next day, just wash in soapy water and watch the dye rinse away. Sounds like a wonderful idea. And here's the winner of the man's watch. He is Mr. Sandy Riza of Cleburne, Texas, and he bases his suggestion on 30 years of experience. He says, the best thing I have ever found for smoothing rough gears and silencing their noise is the use of Kerry salt mixed with gear grease or compound. Congratulations to both of the winners. And folks, if you'd like to win one of these beautiful watches, listen for the easy rules later in this program. Meanwhile, remember, there's a fine Kerry salt for every farm and home use. There's deep penetrating, carries table salt, carries meat curing salt, carries mineral supplement salt and many others. Always look for the white bag box or cotton with a bright red band.

[Co-Host]

The doctors we heard from had this to say a laxative should be effective.

[Advertiser]

Gentle, close to natural acting, a medicine that can be used with complete confidence.

[Co-Host]

Now, Exlax has been popular with many.

[Advertiser]

Doctors and millions of people over the years.

[Host]

Because chocolate and Exlax is effective overnight.

[Advertiser]

It helps you toward your normal regularity.

[Co-Host]

Exlax is so gentle, so close to natural acting.

[Advertiser]

There's no upset.

[Co-Host]

That's why many doctors and millions of.

[Host]

People use Exlax with complete confidence. Exlax, the laxative that helps you toward.

[Advertiser]

Your normal regularity gently overnight.

[Co-Host]

Do you like rich, delicious chocolate flavored malteds?

[Advertiser]

Well, you can make a malted just like that right in your own kitchen.

[Co-Host]

With craft chocolate flavored malted milk. Just make a tasty paste of craft chocolate flavored malted milk and a little milk in the bottom of a big glass. Fill the glass with chilled milk, stir.

[Myron McCormick]

It once more and there.

[Co-Host]

A craft malted is mighty nourishing too because it's filled with all the food values in milk. Get a jar of craft chocolate flavored malted milk from your grocer and enjoy a craft malted off.

[Advertiser]

And now, a tale well calculated to keep you in suspense.

[Host]

Suspense and the producer of radio's outstanding theater of thrills, William N. Robeson.

[Myron McCormick]

Considering the bad time the Spanish conquistador.

[Narrator]

Pizarro gave the Incas of Peru some.

[Co-Host]

400 years ago, you can hardly blame.

[Narrator]

Them for leaving a few booby traps.

[Myron McCormick]

Scattered around the Andes.

[Narrator]

And while you may not consider the rainforests of the headwaters of the Amazon an exactly appropriate place for a honeymoon.

[Myron McCormick]

You must agree that it is people.

[Narrator]

With such wacky ideas who are apt to live dangerously.

[Co-Host]

And dangerously they do live.

[Narrator]

In Door of gold, starring Myron McCormick.

[Co-Host]

A tale well calculated to keep you in.

[Host]

Suspense.

[Narrator]

The Peruvian jungle is no place for a woman. But Janice insisted. She was an archaeologist first and my bride second. It was rugged. In addition to the snakes, bugs and mildew, there were the unfriendly Quechua Indians, each of whom claimed to be a direct descendant of the Inca of Manco Capac himself. It had been slow going. We excavated burial mound after burial mound and found nothing. Perhaps they were right. Maybe my translations were wrong and the Porto de Oro was only a legend. We had only one native guide, a sullen Indian named Huan. So everyone worked. Dr. Clayton, myself, even Janice inside the mound. That morning, I could hear old Dr. Clayton and Janice chipping away. Suddenly, Janice shouted, what? What have you? Finally, the Torto d' Oro.

[Host]

Congratulations, Philip.

[Narrator]

You were right.

[Host]

Professor Wellman's translation was in error. Well, it's bound to make you famous, old boy. You realize that.

[Janice]

Oh, Phil, I'm so very pleased for you. They'll have to listen to you now.

[Host]

I say, look, even Juan is impressed.

[Narrator]

Si, senor. For many lifetimes, my people have estremoi magnifico est El porto de oro. This burial mound was built against the mountainside like all ancient Inca structures, a marvel of shaped stone and grooved rock, fitted so neatly no mortar was required. We had torn down a section of the wall facing the mountain until the door was revealed. A door that glittered dully after Janice used chemicals to dissolve the corrosion. There was no mistaking it. Embossed on the metal was a rising sun, its rays throwing streamers of pure gold across the panel.

[Host]

Did Is there anything in the inscription that would indicate how to open it?

[Narrator]

Well, I see it says, light to the seeker comes through the shafts of God.

[Janice]

That makes everything clear.

[Host]

Patience, child. Your impressions, Philip.

[Narrator]

Well, you see where the sun slants through the cracks in the stones up there?

[Co-Host]

See?

[Host]

Yes, yes.

[Narrator]

It hits the wall in two places.

[Host]

I say so. They're the shafts of God. Their God? Correct.

[Narrator]

You take one, I'll try the other.

[Host]

What should we try?

[Narrator]

Well, I'd say press in on the stones where the light hits. Most of their hidden doors are counterbalanced.

[Janice]

That's it. You got it. It's moving in into the sky.

[Narrator]

A chill crept along my the religious chanting of the college educated huons, the scratch of stone on stone and the musty odor that crept forth from the now open tunnel raised the short hairs on the back of my neck. Silly, I guess. The early sun streamed across the bare floor, but from that dank opening came the odor of death.

[Janice]

Sounds pretty bad.

[Host]

That child is inexperienced talking. The mere fact they're getting the odor means that there's circulation in there.

[Janice]

How shall we handle the search inside?

[Dr. Clayton]

Well.

[Narrator]

Dr. Clayton, if you wouldn't mind, we'd like to.

[Host]

Not really. I'll go in later. You and the child go. Honeymoon trip. Cool darkness, young bride. Sounds romantic.

[Janice]

With that smell, I don't think I could raise a pucker.

[Narrator]

You wish Juan to grow, senor? Well, if you don't mind. No. If anything happens, a pivot or a counterbalance stone or something closes the door. We'll need both of you out here to get it open again. Ah, si, si. We shall await. We quickly gathered the necessary equipment. I belted on two flashlights, the four battery type, and filled my side pack with spare batteries, sidearms, medicine kit, sandwiches, water, of course. Finally, a rope. When we were tied together, I gave Janice the long bamboo probe.

[Host]

Janice had better go in first, don't you think, old boy?

[Co-Host]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Yes, I think she should. Now, listen carefully. Janice, both of our lives may depend on it. Walk lightly. Place your feet carefully and test each slab before stepping onto it.

[Janice]

Oh, now, gentlemen, please. I may just be out of college, but I have studied their culture. I know all about the flip flop stones.

[Host]

Very true, youngster. But it's different than the classroom. There you can laugh at a mistake.

[Narrator]

The most important thing is to remember if I should go through somewhere. You can't hold me unless you drop flat.

[Janice]

Okay, okay, let's go before I lose my nerve completely.

[Narrator]

One que, senor. I brought up the rifles so you and Dr. Clayton can keep an eye out for unfriendly natives. If anything should happen, fire two shots. Si. Or senor y senora go with which God, Juan? Oh, the Christian one, senora. The sun God. He would not like it. We moved slowly down into the slanted passageway. Nervously, Janus stabbed at each of the fitted blocks with a long probe while I mapped them, numbering them on our chart. The corridor slanted upward again and the entrance was gone. We were alone. Suddenly, Block 87 swung from under her and she dropped through. Janice. Janice, you all right?

[Co-Host]

I don't know.

[Narrator]

Can you reach your flash?

[Janice]

I think. Yes, I've got it.

[Narrator]

What's down there?

[Janice]

It's not. It's not too deep. Maybe 30 deep.

[Narrator]

Okay, hold tight. I'll pull you up.

[Co-Host]

There you are.

[Narrator]

See, Desi?

[Janice]

We're lucky that pivot stone didn't close. Oh, still, hold me close.

[Co-Host]

That's better, darling.

[Narrator]

Oh, just think what this means. We'll make Professor Holloway and that entire bunch at the university crawl when we get back. No money, no official recognition, and all those so called scholars peering down their noses at us. You wait. It'll be a pleasure to make them eat their words.

[Janice]

Yes, darling. Meanwhile, will you please mark that darned 87 block red?

[Narrator]

We went on, skirting the still tilted lip of the pivot stone and inching forward twice more. We located swinging traps, the second over a swiftly moving stream. That was why the air was relatively good. Suddenly, Janice stopped yanking on our connecting roads filled by fill.

[Janice]

I. I don't like the feel of this block.

[Narrator]

What's the matter?

[Janice]

It's no pivot.

[Co-Host]

But.

[Janice]

But it's not solid. It feels like it wants to give downward counterbalance.

[Narrator]

Maybe don't put away on it. Let's work around it and see what's beyond.

[Janice]

Why, is that a door?

[Narrator]

Yeah, some kind. That may be what block 590 controls. You game to try it?

[Janice]

Sure.

[Narrator]

We went back to block number 590 on the chart Janice lay flat and I stepped gingerly on it sank about a foot. Then the hollow thunder reached us. The pressure caught us a moment later.

[Janice]

Phil. What was that?

[Narrator]

Afraid to think. Put your hand down near the tunnel floor. Feel anything?

[Janice]

No. Why? Should I?

[Narrator]

I'm afraid not. We've lost our air circulation.

[Janice]

Oh.

[Narrator]

Probably means 590 closed the main entrance.

[Janice]

Maybe Juan and Dr. Clayton will open it in a minute.

[Narrator]

Maybe. Maybe. Well, we're going a bit. Perhaps that second panel opened at the same time.

[Janice]

Don't you think we ought to go back?

[Dr. Clayton]

Why?

[Narrator]

We can't open it from the inside. They'll either get it open or they won't. We crept along silently until we reached the second door. It had not moved. Remembering the entrance, we fumbled with the stones on either side, but they didn't work. We found the combination by accident. None of the stones helped. But when we moved to either end of our rope, preparing to go back, both blocks moved downwards slightly and it opened. Oh, Phil, they. They can't hurt you. They. They've been sitting there for over 400 years.

[Janice]

You mean they were trapped here in their own hidden passage?

[Co-Host]

No, no.

[Narrator]

It was the bidding of their sun God. They sat there until it no longer mattered.

[Janice]

How awful.

[Narrator]

Yeah. In one way, yet in another, rather magnificent. When Pizarro raided their city in the sky, what gold they had not thrown in at PT Carter was brought down into this tunnel. They stayed to guard it.

[Janice]

Phil, put your arms around me until I stop shaking.

[Narrator]

I managed to soothe her jangled nerves, but there was no one to calm mine. Where was the confounded air circulation? The minute the outer door opened, we would feel it. Surely if Juan wasn't tall enough, Clayton could rig something for him to stand on. Or was there something else? We made quick work of it. Going back, using the other flash in the chart, we hurried along the tunnel, carefully avoiding the marked traps, until we made the last dip and reached the golden door. It was still closed.

[Janice]

Dr. Clayton. Dr. Clayton, open the door.

[Narrator]

Save your strength. That door is two feet thick. Clayton, we're back. Can you get it open?

[Janice]

Dr. Clayton, can you hear us?

[Narrator]

Juan, where's Dr. Clayton? The two of you can get this open. Very sad, senor. The good doctor, he has had an accident. An accident? What kind of a. Never mind. Now go get help. Open door, you hear?

[Host]

But he cannot do the.

[Narrator]

Cannot? What do you mean?

[Co-Host]

From nowhere, this son. God, the crowd.

[Myron McCormick]

Though you, his guest, he would not like.

[Narrator]

If you leave to find.

[Co-Host]

Stop Dr. Clayton from sacrilege, please.

[Narrator]

What? What's that noise?

[Co-Host]

What are you doing, son? God. Not one passage found to one first revealed one.

[Juan]

Phil.

[Janice]

What are we going to do?

[Juan]

How.

[Janice]

How can we get out?

[Narrator]

Losing our heads won't help. We might. What's the altitude of this burial mound?

[Janice]

I. I don't remember. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Dr. Clayton marked it yesterday. About 30. About 3,600ft above. Above sea level. Why?

[Narrator]

Now, think of it. My translation said the Porta de Oro would be here. Yes, it was. That means this tunnel must be the one which leads up to Machu Picchu. So if Clayton's figures are nearly correct, it's about a mile west and three miles straight up inside the mountain.

[Janice]

Oh. Oh, that's a welcome idea. I thought you know.

[Narrator]

I know from here.

[Myron McCormick]

Honey.

[Narrator]

We mustn't ever give up. We're both trained. We studied the ancient Incas. And if anybody can outwit them, we can.

[Janice]

Thank you, darling. I'm all right now. Let's go.

[Narrator]

We went back into the now familiar part of the tunnel, counting blocks and squeezing past the dangerous ones. When we reached the second doorway, we stopped.

[Janice]

Poor devils. They don't look so frightening the second time, all huddled over their belongings.

[Narrator]

Janice, what's wrong with you? Look here. Pardon me, old man. There. Does that look like personal belongings to you?

[Janice]

Good heavens, I forgot. Is all of that gold?

[Narrator]

Pure gold? What you're staring at is the ransom of the Inca sun God. Pizarro murdered him. So the Incas hid the gold here to prevent the Spanish from finding it.

[Janice]

Why, there must be millions.

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Even at the tiny percentage that would be allowed us by the Peruvian government, this would make us wealthy for life.

[Janice]

Wood.

[Narrator]

Okay. Will that better? It was hard to keep the note of doubt from creeping into my voice. The gold had been here four centuries. Why, it didn't make sense unless.

[Co-Host]

There.

[Narrator]

Was no trouble with traps. The next half mile until another door.

[Janice]

It seems bigger.

[Narrator]

Let's try the same positions as before. It might work.

[Janice]

It's moving. Scares me stiff when I start to drop that way.

[Narrator]

Keep your eyes open. We're getting tired. We beginning to be sloppy.

[Janice]

What's that down there ahead.

[Juan]

Oh.

[Janice]

So. I'm sorry. How to balance.

[Narrator]

Oh, what's the difference? May as well have that one closed too. I doubt if we'll be back. Up, up, up. Until it seemed as if our legs must drop off. And then suddenly I heard Janice slump to the steps ahead. Janice. Janice, you all right?

[Janice]

I guess so. There's another door. Use the light.

[Narrator]

Sure, honey. Now rest yourself. I'll.

[Co-Host]

Oh, no.

[Janice]

What's wrong.

[Narrator]

It was all there, right in Almagra's diary. All I had to do was read simple Spanish.

[Co-Host]

No, no.

[Narrator]

I've got to be clever and find the Porto de Oro. Anyway.

[Co-Host]

That.

[Janice]

That isn't a door.

[Narrator]

No, it's not. In the diary, Diego Almagra wrote their gods were angry and the mountain shook. Look. You see that step? It's sheared right in half.

[Janice]

Earthquake.

[Narrator]

Right when the quake struck, it shifted the other half of the tunnel maybe 2 or 300ft one way or another. This is a dead end.

[Co-Host]

Oh, no.

[Janice]

It can't be. You're trying to frighten me.

[Co-Host]

Bill.

[Janice]

Don't get around. Opener, please. Please. Build it.

[Co-Host]

Stop that.

[Narrator]

You hear me? Stop it right now. Going to pieces won't help. I hated to slap her, but I had to. And she understood. She didn't say a word. She just turned and went slowly back down. It seemed hours before we reached the bottom of the stairs. Earlier was much better. Minor consolation, so we would die of thirst and hunger. Instead of suffocating, we came up against the first of the closed doors. And it wasn't that easy. We tried combination after combination. Then, just as we were ready to drop from exhaustion, we happened to move back from the door. She on the third block and I on the sixth. Instantly, there was that sinking sensation. And the door moved toward us and disappeared, flush into the wall.

[Janice]

Oh, come on, Phil, move. If it works on the next door, it might work.

[Narrator]

Yes, I know what it might. But we'll take it easy. Chart or no charge. It's dangerous to rush.

[Janice]

Oh, don't be silly.

[Narrator]

I felt sick. There was no tension on the rope. The revolving pivot stone had cut it easily. I scrambled to the pivot stone and lay at arm's length while I tried to move it. No dice. Nervously, I felt for the first flash and press the button. Nothing happened. Again I tried and cut my finger. As I found the reason the lens and bulb were smashed. I fumbled for the other flash. It, too had broken. I was alone in the darkness. Must think. Pressure. Yeah, that was it. Pressure. The third block back needed weight. I crawled to the nearest skeletons and dragged them aside, digging for the sacks of gold beneath. I crawled slowly, tugging some of the heavy ingots with me. Finally, I had a pile of them on the block where I had been standing. I crawled back to the pivot stone. This time it moved. Janice. Janice, can you hear me?

[Myron McCormick]

Phil.

[Janice]

Thank heaven. Turn the flash down here and let me see.

[Narrator]

Can broke when I tried to stop your fall. Both of them. Are you hurt?

[Janice]

I don't think so. I landed on a bunch of old friends.

[Co-Host]

Deep.

[Janice]

I don't think so.

[Narrator]

Dennis, what's wrong?

[Janice]

Don't know. It had eyes. It's gone. Can. Can you get the rope down to me?

[Narrator]

Can you estimate how far.

[Janice]

Wait. I've got the match chin. Wait there. Can you see me all right?

[Narrator]

Yeah. Now you're lucky. There's quite a pile of them. I'd say 15ft. Stay still. I'll rig something. I took the remainder of the cord, fortunately about nine feet, and tied my belt to it. I added my shirt to the upper end and lowered it through the half moon opening. Janice, light another match. Okay, now. Here. Can you reach that?

[Janice]

I I. Yes, I've got it.

[Narrator]

Easy. I've got my shirt on this end. Just take your end and square knot the two.

[Janice]

I can't. Oh, dar.

[Co-Host]

No.

[Janice]

There. It's together. It's. Are you ready?

[Narrator]

Don't try to help. I want to get a hold of the belt before I really pull. Easy. That pivot's standing straight up. Don't touch. Might not be so lucky a second time.

[Janice]

Let me just hold you for a second.

[Narrator]

I'll teach you to run in tunnels. Come on now. And cross everything. We've still got a chance. That's all it was, a chance. We edged down the tunnel in the dark, staying close together. Now, since the rope was gone, we tested everything carefully, then found the second door. It was a thrill to stand on the third and sixth blocks and feel them move. I used one of the precious matches to refresh our minds from the chart. Then we began to count backward, walking hand in hand.

[Janice]

15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10. This is awful. 8, 8, 7. Oh, Phil's sake.

[Narrator]

Hold it. I'll stay here and pray. You go to three.

[Janice]

Here goes nothing. It's opening.

[Co-Host]

Come.

[Narrator]

Oon had rebuilt the wall, but we found no trouble knocking the stones down from inside. At last we were free. Blackness had long settled on the jungle. It was dark in the mound, but to us it was bright. I saw Janice on her knees beside Dr. Clayton.

[Janice]

He's dead.

[Narrator]

I'm not surprised.

[Juan]

Phil.

[Janice]

Sue. What's that?

[Co-Host]

Come on. Run.

[Narrator]

Run. Get out of here.

[Janice]

I told Dr. Trace all the yesterday that all the head was dangerous.

[Narrator]

Now that was man made. You see up there?

[Janice]

What?

[Narrator]

Against the night sky? That's Kuan hiding the sun God's horde and mud.

[Janice]

We didn't even get a little smidgen of gold. With Dr. Clayton gone, I'll never believe your discovery.

[Narrator]

Forget it. Let him keep on Believing Wellman's translations, Me for Cusco and Home.

[Janice]

Coming Try and Stop Me.

[Host]

Suspense in which Myron McCormick starred in William N. Robeson's production of Door of Gold by E. Scott Floor. Listen. Listen again next week when we return with another tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. Supporting Mr. McCormick in Door of Gold were Shirley Mitchell as Janice, Jane Ofello as Juan, and ramsay hill as Dr. Clayton. Original musical score composed and conducted by Amerigo Marino. You'd think that jewelry worth a hundred thousand dollars would shine through a concrete wall. But later on today, when yours truly, Johnny Dollar, tries to locate a boodle of missing gems, the sparklers seem to be lost in darkness. Johnny Dollar, however, is an insurance investigator. For all that his work is adventuresome. He has to work for a living like anybody else. And where those missing gems are concerned, he cannot take no for an answer. For thrill a minute listening. Follow him to the end of the Templeton matter when the next thrill packed episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar comes your way over most of these same stations a little later on in the day.

[Advertiser]

Suspense. And the producer of radio's outstanding theater of thrills, the master of mystery and adventure, William N. Robeson.

[Co-Host]

It is said revenge is sweet. But is it? Can the eye of your enemy restore your sight? Or his tooth chew your daily bread? Or his life resurrect your beloved dead? Such questions do tonight's story raise, not forgetting the while to keep you in suspense. Think about them as you listen and listen well. As Myron McCormick stars in Madman of Manhattan, which begins in just a moment.

[Advertiser]

Welcome William Bendix.

[Co-Host]

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[Advertiser]

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[Host]

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[Advertiser]

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[Host]

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[Advertiser]

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[Co-Host]

Four ways the fast way to relieve those cold miseries. Then you feel better quickly.

[Host]

Four way cold tablets only 29 and 59 cents.

[Advertiser]

Here's a word about another fine product of Grove Laboratories had dandruff for years. Now get rid of it in 3 minutes with Fitch. Dandruff remover shampoo. 3 minutes with Fitch regularly is guaranteed to keep unsightly dandruff away forever. Apply Fitch before wetting hair. Rub in one minute. Add water, lather one minute, then rinse. One minute. Every trace of dandruff goes down the drain. Three minutes with Fitch Embarrassing. Dandruff's gone. Fitch can also leave hair up to 35% brighter. Get Fitch dandruff remover Shampoo today. And now, Madman of Manhattan, starring Mr. Myron McCormick. A tale well calculated to keep you in suspense.

[Co-Host]

Here, you, position of authority.

[Advertiser]

Come here.

[Co-Host]

You can always tell by their voices.

[Myron McCormick]

Sign out. Commanding.

[Co-Host]

The smaller the authority, the more commanding the voice.

[Advertiser]

You hear me?

[Co-Host]

Yes, sir. Sign out, you said. Here.

[Advertiser]

Right below where you signed when you came in.

[Co-Host]

Of course. Perfect.

[Advertiser]

Forgery.

[Co-Host]

Beg your pardon?

[Advertiser]

Well, I mean, your signature is an almost exact copy.

[Co-Host]

You object?

[Advertiser]

No, sir.

[Co-Host]

Do you think you're talking to one of your lunatics upstairs?

[Advertiser]

No, sir.

[Co-Host]

Sir. Always call me sir. I enjoy being called sir. Good night.

[Advertiser]

Good night, Mr. Westland, sir.

[Co-Host]

Walk slowly. No need to hurry. No need at all. That's right. Light a cigarette. Must be some in the pockets. Yes. What brand did Mr. Westland smoke? Excellent. Light it. No need to run. There won't be an alarm for at least 20 minutes. Why, think of that. No need to think of that one. Look back over the shoulder. Casually. Casually. It's pleasant to be on the outside looking in after two years in an insane asylum.

[Narrator]

And now, what do you have?

[Co-Host]

This is a restaurant. Are you kidding? And you're a waitress.

[Myron McCormick]

Lovely waitress.

[Juan]

Look, do you or don't you want something to eat?

[Co-Host]

I'd much rather look at you. Look, mister, I'm going to take you out of all this. Oh, sure. Furs, diamonds. Warm against your skin.

[Juan]

Hey, look at my hand.

[Co-Host]

Your name is Fay. I see it embroidered on your uniform. Fay. Now, Faye, listen to me.

[Juan]

Manager's looking over here.

[Co-Host]

I'll tell you something you can tell to your children, to your children's children and their children's children's children. A comedian. Now, listen, this will be the biggest thrill of your life. I just escaped from Bellevue. What? I'm Lacy Addict. Been in the psychopathic ward in Bellevue for two years. You don't say. Nicholas Westland, my lawyer, came to see me. When we were alone, I strangled him to death. Yes. I changed clothes with him, signed his name on my way out. It'll be in the papers.

[Juan]

Yeah, I'll remember to read about it.

[Co-Host]

I had a wife once, Kate. They say I killed her, so I must have killed her.

[Narrator]

Sure, you killed her.

[Co-Host]

No, I didn't. Martin Avery killed her.

[Juan]

Sure. Sure, Martin Avery killed her. And now what are you gonna have?

[Co-Host]

Martin Avery, that's what I'm gonna have. Anyone minding the store? I'm coming. I'm coming. Oh, hello, pop. Well, what do you want? Got something you want to hock don't.

[Narrator]

Bother me with it.

[Co-Host]

Everybody's selling, nobody's buying. You got me wrong, Pop. I'm a buyer. I want to buy a.45 automatic. Got a permit? No. You from the police? Nope. Got any identification? Here.

[Advertiser]

Lawyer?

[Co-Host]

That's right. There you are. Me. $35. Thanks, Pop. I won't forget this. Neither will a friend of mine.

[Advertiser]

In a moment. We continue with the second act of suspense. With your permission, we'd like to talk shop for just a moment. CBS Radio Shop, recently, one of the foremost publications in the Broadcasting Field polled 465 critics and editors. The question which radio network programs do you rate? Tops? When the answers from these 465 experts were tabulated, the final ratings were overwhelmingly one sided. Total honors accorded CBS Radio programs exceeded those of all the other networks combined. Let's put it another way. The final verdict of hundreds of critics, reviewers and editors was that CBS Radio had more top shows than all other networks put together. CBS Radio was pleased, naturally, at the result of the poll, but not surprised. Great programming is no accident. It's long been a policy of this network to devote every effort to maintaining the highest broadcast standards. Whatever listening fair is for you, you can be sure you're hearing the best when you're tuned to CBS Radio. And now, starring Mr. Myron McCormick, act two of Madman of Manhattan.

[Co-Host]

A little late to call on Martin Avery, but our business won't wait. May I blow your brains out, Mr. Martin Avery? Thank you, sir. How do they say it in the movies? You want it in the belly or the back? Your choice, Martin. Your choice. Lacy. May I come in? Lacey, you're in Bellevue. But you see, I'm not. They'll find you. They'll find you first. I don't expect anything from you, Lacy. You're a sick man. I feel sorry for you. I have my wife and child, my son, here in the apartment. So put that away. This gun. It's just to keep your voice down. It's a toy. It can't hang. It killed. Put it down. Wouldn't you like that? After all, Lacy, we. We were friends once. You wouldn't kill me. I just killed Nick Westland. That's how I escaped. Westland? You killed Westland? You could always find another lawyer. Shouldn't upset you anyway. He wasn't your lawyer. Was mine. Never liked you. He liked me. He was trying to help you. He did. What do you want with me? Company. Company. That's what I missed most of all, Martin. Can you believe that? Company. Two years. No one to Talk to the doctor, sure, but not really anyone. Two years, Martin. No one ever came to see me, to talk to me. I'm sorry. Why didn't you come, Martin? I. Well, I wanted to, but I didn't think it'd accomplish anything. Just to say hello, for old times sake. I told you I didn't think that. Relax, Martin. It's gonna be a long night. Maybe you won't see the end of it, Martin. Depends. We'll see. Depends on Whether you say things I want to hear. Whether you do things I like. Up to me. Yes, I waited a long time and now it's up to me. Look at him. Look at Martin Avery standing alone in the study of his Better Homes and Gardens apartment alone. Was only me to keep you company? Yes. Everything must be going exceptionally well for you. Everything must have paid off for you. But I notice as I move about the study, turning off the lamps, that there's a trace of perspiration on your forehead. Does it affect you just a little, being alone with a madman and a gun? Night. What's taking place behind the steady eyes, Martin? The sinking. That would be fatal. That was my mistake. Thinking too much. Watch me, Martin. That's right. Never take your eyes from me. I want you to keep watching me for then you can't help but think about it. What did you say? I want you to think about it. Think about what? Whatever comes into your mind as you watch me. The police will come here looking for you, Lacy. Police? You know that. Why should the police want me? Well, you killed a man. Yes, but you killed a woman. Now, Lacy, I can help you. I'll get you some of my clothes, call a cab, get you to a small hotel somewhere where they won't recognize you or care if they do. Don't talk to me like that. Everybody talks to me like that. You just come along with me. We know best, Lacey.

[Host]

It's just a matter of time.

[Co-Host]

Remember? Martin, I'm crazy. I'm not responsible for what I do. You're as responsible as anyone. You know what you did when you killed Westland. Are you saying I'm not crazy? You know what I mean. I'm either responsible or I'm not. If I'm responsible, then I'm a murderer. If not, then Nicholas Westland's death was an unfortunate accident. But the question of my responsibility was all taken care of in court two years ago.

[Myron McCormick]

Remember?

[Co-Host]

You testified against me. I told the truth. Did you?

[Host]

Yes.

[Co-Host]

I was the only one that knew you were lying, Martin.

[Myron McCormick]

You knew.

[Co-Host]

I told the truth. Where are your wife and your boy? Sleeping. Martin, answer it. Go ahead. But hold the receiver up so I can hear.

[Advertiser]

Go ahead.

[Co-Host]

Hello?

[Advertiser]

Mr. Abram? Yes. This is Lieutenant Creekmore, police.

[Co-Host]

What is it, Lieutenant?

[Advertiser]

Is everything all right up there?

[Co-Host]

Yes, everything is all right.

[Advertiser]

You sure?

[Co-Host]

Yes.

[Advertiser]

Have you heard that Lacey Abbott escaped from Bellevue tonight?

[Co-Host]

Yes, I heard.

[Advertiser]

Then you know about Nicholas Westland?

[Co-Host]

Yes.

[Advertiser]

Poor guy never had a chance. We thought Abbott was getting better, but.

[Co-Host]

Yes, it's too bad.

[Advertiser]

The reason I called you. You know how Abbott feels about you. He may try to get you.

[Co-Host]

You think so?

[Advertiser]

He might try. But you don't have to worry, Mr. Avery. I have four of my best men covering the front and rear entrances to your apartment house. If he shows up, we'll get him. Good night.

[Co-Host]

Aren't we fortunate in having such a solicitous police force? Look, Lacy, let me get you out of here. You go down to the second floor landing and I'll call the men up from downstairs and tell them you're up here. See that? That'll give you a chance to get out. You didn't answer my question, Martin. Where are your wife and son sleeping? In the back bedroom. Through that door and straight back down the hall. And the nursery?

[Dr. Clayton]

Why do you.

[Co-Host]

Our nursery. Just half of the bedroom. Does she have black hair like Kate? No, she's brown hair. It's almost blonde. How old is your boy? A year and six months. Yes, I remember someone told me you were married while the trial. My trial was in progress. Yeah, that's right. One year for the trial, two years in the insane asylum. I wish there was something that. Oh, there is.

[Host]

All right.

[Co-Host]

What? Just tell me. Why did you kill my wife? Tell me. No.

[Narrator]

Be quiet.

[Co-Host]

You'll wake a bed. Let me tell you a little story, Martin. A fantasy. A bedtime story. Listen to me. Once upon a time, there were two men who went into business together. Things went pretty well, the business prospered and things looked pretty good. Everything was 50. 50? Each partner had 50% of the stock in the company. That's fair enough. Then along came a big, bad menace. A corporation that wanted to buy them out at a nice, round, fat figure. One partner wants to sell the other partner no. The partner that said no had a wife. Let's call her Kate. And it seems his stock was negotiable in Kate's name as well as his own. If you don't shut up, the partner that wants to sell, that's you, pulls a fast one while I'm out of town. And Gets Kate to sign away everything. But before I got back, she saw what you were doing. And right there. Right there was where she disappeared. No. And I wonder who it was that saw to it. I wonder who it was that killed her. You're still out of your mind. It's just a fantasy, Martin. The fantasy that with your few well chosen words at the inquest, started them looking at me. Wondering about me. Wondering why I was away, what I'd done with the body. Lacy, such nicely chosen words. Such as? I'd noticed he hadn't been himself lately, but I just thought it was overworked. Look, you've got to listen. Thanks, partner. I do thank you and I stand ready to repay you. Martin. Where's her body? I don't know. Martin. Look, it was never proven she was dead. Let's say it was taken for granted. Give me the gun. Advanced psychology. You must have been studying. Give me the gun. Response to the command. Isn't that the way it goes? Response to the command sometimes works the impossible. The subject will sometimes obey your command against his better judgment. Give it to me.

[Narrator]

No, Mutton.

[Co-Host]

Give it up. Oh, you.

[Narrator]

Better than nothing. Come on. More.

[Juan]

More.

[Co-Host]

More. More noise.

[Narrator]

More.

[Co-Host]

Come on. Someone might come in and see. Sputter. I knew you were going to jump me, you know. I could have killed you. Why didn't you? You haven't told me what I've got to know.

[Host]

What would you do if I walked.

[Co-Host]

Over to that door and just walked out? First, I'd shoot you in the shoulder or the leg. And maybe the other shoulder. I don't want you dead. Not yet. Look, Lacy, I never harmed you. I swear that. I swear it. Tell me, where is Kate's body? I don't know. Tell me. I can't. Through the door and down the halter. No, just off the bedroom.

[Host]

And not the boys.

[Co-Host]

Lacy, help me. No, I can't. Lacy, don't lock me in. Come back. Come back. You. Lacey. You can. And Johnny, lock your door.

[Myron McCormick]

Hand.

[Co-Host]

No. No. And Johnny, come. I'll tell. I'll tell. I'll tell. I'll tell you. Oh, no.

[Advertiser]

In a moment we continue with the third act of suspense. A word of advice for those of you who suffer from acid indigestion, heartburn or gas doodle.

[Narrator]

You know about the little white tablets.

[Juan]

In the little green pocket roll just awaiting for the moment when you need them to bring your acid indigestion under control. Tums are the little white tablets in the little green pocket roll.

[Co-Host]

Tums for the tummy.

[Juan]

T u M. S bring relief quicker than you'd ever guess. Best for any kind of acid distress. Keep them handy in the pocket roll. Keep your tummy under Tums control.

[Advertiser]

The modern Tums formula has never been surpassed for effectiveness. Always carry Tums 10 cents. Three roll pack, equipment quarter or get the new six roll. Tums pack with free metal carrier only. 49 cents. And now, starring Mr. Myron McCormick, act three of Mad Men of Manhattan. Nicholas Westland speaking. Yes, I know, sir. I'm glad you had the faith to play along with. I know it was pretty extreme here.

[Host]

I'll let you talk to Lieutenant Creekmore.

[Advertiser]

Hello, Commissioner. Avery's wife and child are okay. Got a little scared when Abbott fired those two shots in the ceiling. Yeah, Yeah, I know. But that's what got the confession out of Avery. I know. He shouldn't have brought the gun. We didn't bargain on that. Yeah, yeah, we got it. It's all on tape. Listen. Play it back, boys. I'm just playing the good part.

[Co-Host]

It doesn't matter now. Nothing matters now. You were wrong. I see it. See, Kate came to me months before you took the trip. She wanted to leave you. She thought she wanted me, and it was her idea to sign the stock over to me. Everything. And I. I kidded her along. Why not? And then when you were away, she signed the stock over. She found out about Ann and me. Doesn't matter now. I. I tried to talk to Kate. Argument.

[Host]

We had a fight.

[Co-Host]

I didn't mean. Was an accident. I killed her. I fixed it so they'd suspect you. That wasn't hard. It was better than I thought. You seemed to be out of your mind. Where did you put her? I. I kept. That's not until they.

[Advertiser]

You get it. Yeah. Well, we'd never have cracked Martin Avery any other way. They wanted to release Lacey Abbott six months ago. Said he was the same as I am. But I'm glad we waited till he had this worked out in his head. Yeah. You'll have my full report tomorrow night. And thanks, Commissioner, for letting us try it. Well, Lacy, you should be feeling pretty.

[Co-Host]

Good about all this.

[Advertiser]

Your plan worked out great. You're clear.

[Co-Host]

He said Kate came to him. Kate came to him.

[Advertiser]

Suspense. In which Myron McCormick starred in William N. Robeson's production of Madman of Manhattan, written by Gilbert Thomas. In a moment, the names of the supporting players and a word about next week's story of suspense. Money can buy many things, tangible things. It can also help buy many intangible but equally important things. Education for Instance, today our public schools are bursting at the seams with record enrollments. There are shortages of everything but pupils. Shortages of classrooms, of facilities, of qualified teachers. New funds must be found to help relieve the pressure on our public school systems. If the nation's youngsters are to receive the first rate education they need, they must not be threatened by second rate standards. We must face up to the fact that better schools cost money. Let's raise our sights and re examine our standards. For complete information on how you and your community can make sure your children receive the first rate education they need, write to Better Schools, 9 East 40th Street, NY 16. That's Better Schools, 9 East 40th street, NY 16. Supporting Myron McCormick in Madman of Manhattan were Doris Singleton, Carl Swenson, Barney Phillips and Norm Alden. Listen. Listen again next week when we return with Frank Lovejoy starring in death in box 234, another tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. The latest news follows, then have Gun.

[Co-Host]

Will Travel on CBS Radio.

[Myron McCormick]

Hello.

[Dr. Clayton]

I hope I haven't kept you waiting. Yes, this is the Crime Club. I'm the librarian. No time for. For murder. Yes, we have that story for you. Come right over. Ah, you're here. Good. Take the easy chair by the window. Comfortable? The manuscript is on this shelf. Here it is no Time for Murder. The very intriguing story of a clock that chimed in with death. Let's look at it under the reading lamp. It was early evening and people. Peter Woods, a young lawyer, had time to kill before his appointment with Hilda Ryan, his fiance. So he took a walk along Madison Avenue, which was practically deserted. Then he stopped to window browse outside a bookshop. He was just getting interested in some of the titles when he was joined by a couple. What are you stopping here for, Dickie?

[Juan]

Maybe I like books, maybe you don't.

[Dr. Clayton]

Maybe you're just stalling for time.

[Co-Host]

Steve.

[Narrator]

Oh, let go.

[Myron McCormick]

My arm.

[Janice]

You are hurting.

[Dr. Clayton]

Am I? Then let's get moving.

[Co-Host]

No.

[Dr. Clayton]

Now you don't really mean that, do you, baby?

[Myron McCormick]

Excuse me, mister. I don't like to break into a love scene.

[Dr. Clayton]

Well, then don't, pal.

[Myron McCormick]

Take your hand off her.

[Dr. Clayton]

Okay. Got ahead. Not now. I'll give it to you.

[Janice]

Steve, don't. Oh, you. You knock him out, huh?

[Juan]

With one punch.

[Dr. Clayton]

Yeah.

[Myron McCormick]

Maybe I'm stronger than I thought.

[Juan]

What is your name?

[Myron McCormick]

On Peter Wood?

[Juan]

Peter darling, how can I thank you?

[Myron McCormick]

Now look, Dick, if it had not.

[Narrator]

Been for you, I would have been you.

[Myron McCormick]

Just in time. Officer, this girl was being molested.

[Host]

Yeah?

[Dr. Clayton]

By who?

[Myron McCormick]

That man down at what? Man down. Where, buddy? Why, he's disappeared. He was just lying there.

[Dr. Clayton]

Officer, let me smell your breath.

[Myron McCormick]

I'm not drunk. Ask this lady. She'll tell you what happened.

[Juan]

You bet I will. Officer, this man, Peter woods, he tried to kill me.

[Myron McCormick]

You hear that? And if I hadn't stepped in. Why? What? What did you say?

[Juan]

You tried to kill me.

[Dr. Clayton]

And all because we've got a place for men like you.

[Myron McCormick]

Now wait a minute. This girl's framing me.

[Dr. Clayton]

Yeah, well, tell it to the judge.

[Myron McCormick]

He's a great one for fairy tales.

[Dr. Clayton]

The accused, Peter woods, having been charged by the complainant Dixie Martell, with felonious assault with intent to kill, is remanded for questioning by the grand jury of this county. Bail is hereby set with $1,000.

[Juan]

Hello? Hilda Ryan?

[Janice]

Speaking.

[Juan]

And if it's you, Peter woods, it's me, Peter Woods. Don't you dare say another word.

[Myron McCormick]

I'm sorry, Hilda.

[Juan]

You had an appointment to meet me here in my apartment at 7:00. You were going to take me out to dinner and to the theater for the first time in six months.

[Myron McCormick]

I. I know, dear.

[Juan]

It's 11 o' clock now.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, I got tied up, honey.

[Juan]

Why didn't you call me?

[Myron McCormick]

I'm in the District Attorney's office.

[Dr. Clayton]

Hmm?

[Myron McCormick]

I'd rather be with you, darling.

[Juan]

Of course. Well, as long as you're working on a case.

[Myron McCormick]

Yes, honey, and it's all mine.

[Juan]

Well, I should hope so. You know what I think of lawyers who split fees.

[Myron McCormick]

You don't understand. There. I'm the defendant too.

[Juan]

You?

[Myron McCormick]

I'm being held for the grand jury.

[Juan]

Good heavens. What have you done?

[Myron McCormick]

Nothing. Oh, no, I mean it. I never saw that girl before in my life.

[Juan]

What girl?

[Myron McCormick]

Dixie Martell. I was walking along Madison Avenue and she and a fellow with a name.

[Juan]

What did she say you did to her?

[Myron McCormick]

Assault.

[Juan]

What?

[Myron McCormick]

With intent to kill. But she's out of her mind. Why, she told the judge in night court that I tried to pick her up. All right, dear, you're against me too. I guess I'll be better off in jail.

[Co-Host]

Jail?

[Myron McCormick]

Well, that's where they're going to take me now. And if a jury believes that girl, I'll go to Sing Sing for five years and I'll be disbarred.

[Narrator]

Oh, Pete, feel sorry for me now.

[Juan]

I'm just a big dope.

[Myron McCormick]

Darling, if you could come down to the DA's office and bring a thousand dollars.

[Juan]

Bring a what?

[Myron McCormick]

My bail money. Otherwise I'll have to stay in Jail until the grand jury gets around to me.

[Juan]

But where am I going to get a thousand dollars now?

[Myron McCormick]

How about your relatives?

[Juan]

I've been lending them money.

[Myron McCormick]

Oh. Well, can you get it here by morning?

[Juan]

That means I'll have to to the bank.

[Myron McCormick]

Hilda, I love you.

[Juan]

Oh, my true money.

[Myron McCormick]

You'll get it back. We'll be married right after the jury says not guilty.

[Juan]

Yes, and it better say not guilty or I'll see that you get life. Pete, if your girlfriend were home.

[Myron McCormick]

She's not my girlfriend, Hilda.

[Juan]

Well, all right, then. If Dixie Martell were in her apartment, she'd have opened that door long ago.

[Myron McCormick]

Don't think I haven't thought of it.

[Juan]

Then why do you keep buzzing?

[Myron McCormick]

Hope spring's eternal.

[Juan]

Come on, we'll get some lunch and then come back. Maybe by that time.

[Myron McCormick]

I'm not giving up the watch, darling.

[Juan]

But we could be easy.

[Myron McCormick]

I'm going to be here when Dixie comes home and she's going to tell me why she cooked up that speech. Take it easy, Elder. It's not the mysterious traveler.

[Juan]

But the door I leaned against then, it wasn't locked.

[Myron McCormick]

Now, how did you figure that out, darling?

[Juan]

Well, you said. Listen to me, Peter woods, the next time you get into trouble, get somebody else to put up bail for you.

[Myron McCormick]

All right. Find me another girl with trousseau money. Pete, have you got one?

[Juan]

Are you going in there?

[Myron McCormick]

Of course.

[Juan]

But I.

[Myron McCormick]

We came here to see Dixie. Does that mean we've got to stand in the hall till she gets here? I know, dear, but we can be sitting down. Look, comfortable chairs and a sofa.

[Juan]

Pete, isn't there a law in this state against unlawful entry?

[Myron McCormick]

In a lot of states, Hilda.

[Juan]

Then why take chances of being arrested again? Aren't you in enough trouble? How many grand juries do you want to face?

[Myron McCormick]

You're right, sweetheart. Let's go back to the hall. Well, come on, will you, before Dixie barges in.

[Co-Host]

Ah.

[Janice]

Ah.

[Myron McCormick]

What's the matter with you?

[Juan]

Look behind the open door.

[Myron McCormick]

Don't tell me it's. Good grief.

[Juan]

Is that Dixie Martel?

[Myron McCormick]

It was Hilda.

[Co-Host]

Oh, Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

Now it's just her mortal remains.

[Juan]

Well, Pete?

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah, she was strangled. Hilda.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh.

[Juan]

Took you a long time to find out.

[Myron McCormick]

I was looking for a bullet wound or a knife wound.

[Juan]

You know, I'd rather not.

[Myron McCormick]

Then I noticed the marks on her throat. I thought there'd be fingerprint impressions, but there weren't. Oh, whoever killed her must have worn gloves or used a. What's the matter, Hilda? Don't you feel well?

[Juan]

I couldn't feel worse.

[Myron McCormick]

Come on, let's get over to the window.

[Juan]

That won't do any good.

[Myron McCormick]

Fresh air.

[Juan]

Let's get out of here, Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

I can't.

[Juan]

You're not hypnotized, are you?

[Myron McCormick]

I can't run away from it, Hilda.

[Juan]

What are you talking about?

[Myron McCormick]

Murder. Dixie's murder. The police will say I did it. Oh, no, don't kid yourself, honey. They say it and I'll have the devil's own time proving I didn't.

[Juan]

But what about me? Don't you think I'll have something to say?

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah.

[Juan]

After all, it isn't as if you found Dixie dead and then told me about it. Yeah, I was with you. And I've been with you all morning.

[Myron McCormick]

That's the trouble, darling. Why, you posted bail for me.

[Juan]

Now what in the world does that mean?

[Myron McCormick]

You've got a special interest in me. And when we tell the police and the district attorney that we're engaged to be married, oh, understand.

[Juan]

They'll say I'm prejudiced in your favor and therefore over Pete. What are we going to do?

[Myron McCormick]

There's only one thing, Hilda.

[Juan]

Yes?

[Myron McCormick]

I'm a lawyer, an officer of the court, and I'm not supposed to do it. I'm not supposed to conceal a crime, huh? As a matter of fact, no citizen should conceal a crime from the police. But in this case.

[Juan]

Thanks for coming out of the wherefore. Why, let's have the time, Wit.

[Myron McCormick]

I don't follow you, Hilda.

[Juan]

Don't try. You just got lost in your legal training.

[Myron McCormick]

As I was saying, in this case.

[Juan]

You'Re not going to tell the police about Dixie Martell.

[Myron McCormick]

That's right.

[Juan]

But Pete, we can't just leave her here.

[Myron McCormick]

We'll have to, honey, until I find out who killed her.

[Dr. Clayton]

Very, very interesting.

[Myron McCormick]

Hello, Steve.

[Dr. Clayton]

You're a lawyer, huh? What law school would you go to?

[Myron McCormick]

Not the one you're going to, Steve.

[Dr. Clayton]

I've been there. And I learned the value of a closed door speed.

[Myron McCormick]

It's too late, Hilda. The horse is in. Let's take a look at that eye, Steve.

[Dr. Clayton]

From where you're standing.

[Myron McCormick]

Don't be afraid. I won't hurt your gun.

[Juan]

Pete is the man you told me about.

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah, the guy who threatened Dixie and got clipped.

[Dr. Clayton]

Nice shade of blue I'm wearing this season, huh?

[Juan]

Why did you come here, Steve?

[Dr. Clayton]

Why?

[Juan]

I mean, at this particular time.

[Dr. Clayton]

I get impulses, baby.

[Juan]

Like the one that strangled Dixie, huh?

[Myron McCormick]

Don't try to laugh it off, Steve. She tried to get away from you last night. Are you denying It. You killed her, Steve. And before you left the building, you saw Hilda and me coming in. So you hung around just to nab.

[Dr. Clayton]

You with goods, huh?

[Myron McCormick]

Why did you kill her?

[Dr. Clayton]

Listen, pal, would your name be Peter Wood?

[Myron McCormick]

Never mind changing the subject.

[Dr. Clayton]

That's what I thought. Yeah, I. I knew I saw that face someplace. Madison Avenue Magistrates Court last night. Is it true what Dixie said about you?

[Myron McCormick]

Okay, Steve, play dumb.

[Dr. Clayton]

And she was a friend of mine, Pete. And now look at her behind the door. Oh, well, we'll have to tell the police about this, Petey boy.

[Myron McCormick]

Get away from that phone.

[Dr. Clayton]

Don't be ridiculous. It's a public utility.

[Co-Host]

I'm with you, stick. He told you, you come cluck.

[Myron McCormick]

No, you dumb clock. A lady screams and you turn around, gentleman Steve.

[Dr. Clayton]

I'll break you in half.

[Juan]

Swing him around this way, Pete. I'll hit him with this flower pot.

[Myron McCormick]

All right, Hilda.

[Juan]

It's not all right. Can't you two stop dancing for a minute?

[Dr. Clayton]

I'll kill you, Wood.

[Co-Host]

Now, Hilda, No.

[Juan]

Here. That does it.

[Dr. Clayton]

Thanks. You put. Little charmer.

[Juan]

Pete. Oh, Pete, darling. I got the wrong man.

[Co-Host]

Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

All right, Hilda.

[Juan]

Now, Pete, will you ever forgive me?

[Myron McCormick]

Now, Hilda.

[Juan]

It's all over, darling. I hit you by mistake.

[Co-Host]

Donald Clark.

[Myron McCormick]

The lady screams. What did you say?

[Juan]

I was all set to hit him, Pete. And then he swung you around and.

[Myron McCormick]

I. Oh, my aching head.

[Juan]

Is there something you'd like me to do?

[Myron McCormick]

Yes, but not now. Where's Steve?

[Juan]

He left with his gun.

[Myron McCormick]

Didn't he phone the police?

[Juan]

No.

[Myron McCormick]

So he was bluffing. Help me up.

[Juan]

Sit there for a minute. I've got something I'd like you to say. Hilda, this piece of paper.

[Myron McCormick]

What is it?

[Juan]

Read it.

[Myron McCormick]

All right. I can see straight. Repair tickets for a clock.

[Dr. Clayton]

So?

[Juan]

Well, when I hit you on the head with the flower pots, the pot broke and this ticket fell out.

[Myron McCormick]

Carl Andrews Jewelry sold clocks repaired.

[Co-Host]

980 East 69th Street.

[Juan]

That should be on the next block, Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

Now, why should Dixie bury a repair ticket for an ordinary clock?

[Juan]

Maybe it isn't an ordinary clock.

[Myron McCormick]

Help me up, sweetheart. I think I've seen everything.

[Dr. Clayton]

Good afternoon. Can I help you?

[Myron McCormick]

Are you Mr. Carl Andrews?

[Dr. Clayton]

I have been for 56 years. Now, what can I do for you?

[Juan]

Oh, we have a ticket for a clock that was left here by Dixie Martell.

[Dr. Clayton]

Ms. Dixie Martell? Oh, yes, yes. May I have the ticket, please? Thank you, sir. Let me see. Where did I put that clock? Oh, yes, yes, yes, I remember. Here it is. Shall I wrap it up? Let's see.

[Myron McCormick]

It first.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, of course.

[Juan]

Why, Pete, it's beautiful.

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah.

[Juan]

Now, what would Dixie be doing with her?

[Myron McCormick]

You never can tell, Hilda. Maybe she used it to tell time.

[Juan]

But a thing like that.

[Dr. Clayton]

It's a real antique, man.

[Juan]

Well, that's what I mean, Mr. Andrews, and very expensive.

[Dr. Clayton]

A collector's item, if you don't mind my saying so.

[Juan]

Oh, we don't mind.

[Dr. Clayton]

Then perhaps you won't mind if I ask you a question, hmm? I am responsible for this clock. And if you are strangers to me. Of course you brought in the ticket.

[Myron McCormick]

But you want to know how we got it.

[Dr. Clayton]

Yes. Please don't be offended.

[Myron McCormick]

We're not. A straight question calls for a straight answer.

[Dr. Clayton]

Thank you so much.

[Juan]

We got it from Dixie, Ms. Martell, to you.

[Dr. Clayton]

Naturally, she had to go away.

[Myron McCormick]

A long vacation, poor girl.

[Dr. Clayton]

I told her she was working too hard. I guess being a nightclub dancer is a very difficult profession.

[Juan]

It keeps a girl on her toes, Mr. Andrews.

[Dr. Clayton]

Of course, I do hate to lose a good customer, but what is best for her is. Well, you understand perfectly. Will she be coming back someday?

[Myron McCormick]

I don't think so. Her plans were very definite.

[Dr. Clayton]

That you should. Too bad. Well, if you should see her employer, tell him I'm sorry he's lost such a good performance.

[Juan]

Do you know her employer, too?

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, Indeed I do. Mr. Jackson is one of my best customers. He owns the Pelican club on West 49th street, you know.

[Myron McCormick]

And the clock's there are never on time.

[Dr. Clayton]

I see. You know, Mr. Jackson, are you sure you wouldn't like me to wrap that clock for you?

[Myron McCormick]

Sure.

[Dr. Clayton]

Well, then, if you will excuse me, I'll go back to my work. People get so angry when their clocks are not ready on time. Good day.

[Juan]

Same to you. Now there's a sweet old man.

[Myron McCormick]

Uhhuh.

[Juan]

Beep. The next time we have a clock that needs fixing or some jewelry that.

[Myron McCormick]

Needs buying, I'll keep it in mind. Hilda, didn't you notice something queer about that sweet old man?

[Juan]

Queer?

[Myron McCormick]

He didn't ask me to pay him.

[Juan]

Pay him? For what?

[Myron McCormick]

The work he did on the clock.

[Juan]

Oh, well, maybe Dixie did that before. You know in advance.

[Myron McCormick]

Boy, how you women stick together. Come on, let's get a cab.

[Juan]

Peter, you crazy?

[Myron McCormick]

You'll find out this isn't Utopia.

[Juan]

Cab rides cost money.

[Myron McCormick]

Take a look at the back of this clock.

[Juan]

A metal plaque.

[Dr. Clayton]

Read it.

[Juan]

From the car collection of S. Park Jackson. Well, all right. Mr. Andrews said.

[Myron McCormick]

Don't you get it, honey? S. Parker Jackson.

[Juan]

Excuse me, dear. This is my dumb afternoon s Parker.

[Myron McCormick]

Jackson might be the fancy moniker for a guy named Steve.

[Juan]

Oh.

[Myron McCormick]

Oh, don't explode, darling. I need you. Oh, this darn traffic. It'll take us a year to get there. Oh, well, Hilda, for Jiminy's sake, will you stop playing with that clock?

[Juan]

I'm only trying to wind it, Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

Only trying? You've been turning that gimmick for 10 minutes. You must have broken the spring.

[Juan]

Oh, we'll find out, see?

[Co-Host]

Hey, take it easy.

[Myron McCormick]

That thing's an antique. You shake the guts out of it.

[Juan]

I've shaken something out of a drawer in the base of the clock. Pete, look. What's in it?

[Myron McCormick]

Let me see.

[Juan]

Stuck with glue or something.

[Myron McCormick]

Hilda, I love you. These are diamonds.

[Juan]

What?

[Narrator]

Those four pieces of glass, uncut diamonds.

[Myron McCormick]

I'll bet this drawer wasn't in the clock when Steve Jackson bought it.

[Juan]

Pete, do you know what you're talking about?

[Myron McCormick]

Got an idea? Those robberies in the diamond center for the past year.

[Juan]

Oh, no.

[Myron McCormick]

You've read about them, haven't you?

[Juan]

Yes.

[Myron McCormick]

All right, this, dear, you're getting off to the next corner.

[Juan]

Oh, now, Pete, no arguments, honey.

[Myron McCormick]

I've got plans.

[Juan]

And I've got $1,000 wrapped up in you. Hard earned money.

[Myron McCormick]

Do this for me and I'll owe you my life.

[Juan]

Would you go to the Pelican Club without me?

[Myron McCormick]

Yes, dear. But you'll be there, too, in spirit. Hello, Mr. Jackson.

[Dr. Clayton]

Huh? Well, Pete. Well, if it is my old friend. Come in. How's your head?

[Myron McCormick]

S. Parker Jackson?

[Dr. Clayton]

Yeah. I come from good stock, bottle and bond.

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah.

[Dr. Clayton]

How. How'd you get in here?

[Myron McCormick]

I walked. There's quite an office you've got.

[Dr. Clayton]

I like comfort.

[Myron McCormick]

And those clocks on the wall, some collection. Mind if I look at them?

[Dr. Clayton]

Who. Who told you about this place?

[Myron McCormick]

A clock that Dixie had given to Mr. Carl Andrews for repair.

[Dr. Clayton]

Andrews? Ooh, Andrews. He. He does all my repair work.

[Myron McCormick]

Yes, so he says.

[Dr. Clayton]

Where is that clock?

[Myron McCormick]

How much is it worth to you?

[Dr. Clayton]

Let's say your life?

[Myron McCormick]

You talk big.

[Dr. Clayton]

Where's that clock, Pete?

[Myron McCormick]

Now let's steal. I'm a lawyer. I get paid for asking questions.

[Dr. Clayton]

You get paid off if you. Yeah, okay. Name your price. What?

[Myron McCormick]

Does that clock mean so much to you?

[Dr. Clayton]

It's valuable. The only one of its kind in the world.

[Myron McCormick]

A portable diamond mine.

[Dr. Clayton]

What'd you say?

[Myron McCormick]

I'm giving the answers now, Steve. All those clocks on the walls, those rare antique clocks, are loaded with diamonds that were stolen from the diamond center.

[Dr. Clayton]

That cracked. You got on the skull, went right through the brain, didn't it right through with a ticket.

[Myron McCormick]

Now, let's have it, Mr. S. Parker Jackson. You killed Dixie Martel because she stole one of your clocks with diamonds in it.

[Dr. Clayton]

Killed Dixie Martel.

[Myron McCormick]

Remember that body behind the door?

[Dr. Clayton]

There's a hospital a few blocks from here. You better go there right away. Kill Dixie Martel?

[Myron McCormick]

That's very funny, isn't it?

[Dr. Clayton]

With the riot? A body behind the door. You seeing things, pal?

[Myron McCormick]

Now, wait a minute.

[Dr. Clayton]

Dixie corpse. When she hears about this. Come on, I want you to tell her.

[Myron McCormick]

What?

[Dr. Clayton]

Dixie Martell. She's upstairs rehearsing a new number.

[Myron McCormick]

You mean that she's here in this club?

[Dr. Clayton]

Yeah, all here, but.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, then who was the dead girl in her apartment?

[Dr. Clayton]

Dead girl? What dead? Rehearsal room. Pete, last up.

[Myron McCormick]

Ah, so that's Dixie, huh?

[Dr. Clayton]

Always was, pal. I'll introduce you to it. Cut it, baby, just a little.

[Juan]

Hi, Steve.

[Myron McCormick]

You like the new routine?

[Dr. Clayton]

Dixie, I want you to meet Peter Woods.

[Juan]

From Hollywood?

[Dr. Clayton]

Nah, from hunger. He's a lawyer.

[Juan]

Oh, well, if he's a friend of yours.

[Myron McCormick]

Now, listen, miss. What's your name?

[Juan]

It's Dixie Martell, honey.

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah? Since when? Since.

[Juan]

Say, what is this, Steve? A census taker?

[Dr. Clayton]

A jerk. Baby thinks you're a corpse.

[Co-Host]

What?

[Juan]

A what?

[Dr. Clayton]

You know what people say nice things about.

[Myron McCormick]

You're misrepresenting. Steve. She's not the girl we saw.

[Dr. Clayton]

She's Dixie Martell, Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

But she's not the. And you know it.

[Juan]

Don't you tell me who I am.

[Myron McCormick]

All right, I won't. But I'll tell you what you are.

[Juan]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Myron McCormick]

You're waiting, mister. You're. Well, what's the difference? You're not Dixie Martell.

[Juan]

Get him out of here, Steve. Get him out before I wrap him up for burial.

[Dr. Clayton]

Funny scene. Quite a funny scene.

[Juan]

But John's the matter with you, huh? I've got work to do. New routine that's got to be ready by tonight.

[Dr. Clayton]

Well, then, work. Let's go, Pete.

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, goodbye, miss. What's your name?

[Juan]

Oh, go feed yourself to the squirrels.

[Dr. Clayton]

Some number, huh?

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah, that's what I've been thinking. Let's go down to your office, Steve. Maybe I'll find a number for you, too.

[Dr. Clayton]

And you hear, Pete, some of the publicity we've sent out on Dixie. We're breaking tonight's papers.

[Myron McCormick]

With or without pictures?

[Dr. Clayton]

With. Here's a couple of pictures.

[Co-Host]

Steve.

[Myron McCormick]

Either you're a guy with plenty of gall, or you're just playing.

[Dr. Clayton]

Getting weaker, pal.

[Myron McCormick]

These are pictures of the girl upstairs.

[Dr. Clayton]

Dixie Martell.

[Myron McCormick]

What's the gag. Who do you think you're gonna kid with this stunt?

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, you're getting tough again.

[Myron McCormick]

Now, look, Steve, I'm not crazy, and neither is Hilda. There was a dead girl in that apartment. We all saw her. You were going to phone the police.

[Dr. Clayton]

Was I?

[Myron McCormick]

That girl was Dixie Martell. And the girl upstairs.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, I have a feeling I don't know, but perhaps I could think of. Oh, excuse me, pal. Yeah, come on.

[Juan]

Oh, so you're still talking.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, me? What is this?

[Juan]

Don't tell me you don't know. Or aren't the dead supposed to be heard?

[Dr. Clayton]

What?

[Co-Host]

Yes.

[Juan]

You recognize the voice now, don't you? Dixie Martell?

[Advertiser]

No.

[Juan]

How does it feel listening to a ghost?

[Dr. Clayton]

I'll let you know.

[Juan]

You thought I was dead, didn't you? You are so sure. The guy who does such a perfect job on everything.

[Dr. Clayton]

Wait a minute. We. Oh, you're mad, okay, but you tried to kill me.

[Juan]

And why? Just because I swiped one of your lousy clocks with the diamonds in it. Was that a reason for murder?

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, that's. That's a big question, honey. I can't answer it now.

[Juan]

That's all right with me, Steve. You're through.

[Myron McCormick]

Women trouble, Steve?

[Dr. Clayton]

Sort of.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, when you have too many.

[Dr. Clayton]

It was your girl, Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

Huh?

[Dr. Clayton]

Hilda. You put her up to it, didn't you?

[Myron McCormick]

Now, chum, if I knew what you were talking about.

[Dr. Clayton]

She makes a very bad ghost, chum.

[Co-Host]

Oh, that.

[Dr. Clayton]

Yeah.

[Myron McCormick]

Don't reach for that gun, Steve. I've got one right here in my pocket.

[Dr. Clayton]

That fact affect?

[Myron McCormick]

Don't try to find out.

[Dr. Clayton]

Once a lawyer, always a lawyer.

[Myron McCormick]

What does that mean?

[Dr. Clayton]

How much?

[Myron McCormick]

For you, 2000 volt.

[Dr. Clayton]

How about 50,000 bucks for you?

[Myron McCormick]

In cash?

[Dr. Clayton]

In cash?

[Myron McCormick]

All right. Steve, get on that phone and call the police.

[Dr. Clayton]

No dice, huh?

[Myron McCormick]

The police, pal. Okay, what do I tell them about diamonds and Dixie and death?

[Dr. Clayton]

You're really not squirrel food.

[Myron McCormick]

And while you're dialing the operator, you can tell me all about that girl upstairs you had posing as Dixie Martel.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, you mean Mona.

[Myron McCormick]

Mona. A not so delectable slice of ham.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, you're wrong, pal. She's very delectable. Very delectable. Nice work, Mona. Your timing was perfect.

[Juan]

Oh, thanks for leaving the door open, Steve.

[Dr. Clayton]

Everybody wants to get in the act but you, baby, you belong.

[Juan]

Well, what do we do with him?

[Myron McCormick]

I'll leave him.

[Dr. Clayton]

There, there. Come on, help me get the clock down from the wall. Clock?

[Juan]

But, Steve, we.

[Dr. Clayton]

Come on, honey. Time marches on. We've got to keep him set.

[Co-Host]

Pete. Pete.

[Myron McCormick]

Now, Hilda. All right, Hilda, now.

[Juan]

I didn't do it.

[Janice]

Pete.

[Juan]

You can't blame me for everything that happens to you. Now, get up.

[Myron McCormick]

Yeah, yeah, get up, Flob.

[Juan]

Hilda, how do you do?

[Myron McCormick]

What happened to me?

[Juan]

That's what I'd like to know.

[Myron McCormick]

How did I get down?

[Co-Host]

Oh, yeah.

[Myron McCormick]

Somebody hit me on the head.

[Co-Host]

Who?

[Narrator]

I don't know.

[Myron McCormick]

Steve was standing over there. I had him covered with a gun I didn't have in my pocket.

[Juan]

A gun you didn't have?

[Myron McCormick]

I took a chance and he fell for it. Then he. I know.

[Juan]

Oh, now we'll get some. Please.

[Myron McCormick]

It was Mona. It must have been Mona.

[Juan]

Who's Mona?

[Myron McCormick]

That girl in the rehearsal room who pretended to be. Hey, the clocks. What happened to the clocks, huh? The clocks were in this room. The walls were covered with them.

[Juan]

Pete, you poor darling. You're delirious. Two hits on the head in one day.

[Co-Host]

They're gone, Steve.

[Myron McCormick]

Mona. Clocks and diamonds.

[Co-Host]

Beat it.

[Juan]

Are you talking to me?

[Myron McCormick]

No, no, no. The clocks that were full of diamonds and those two killers.

[Juan]

Oh, dear. You mean I was Dixie's ghost for nothing?

[Myron McCormick]

Hilda, don't you realize the end evidence is gone. And sooner or later somebody will find Dixie's body in her apartment. The police will start asking me a lot of questions. What'll I tell them?

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, excuse me.

[Myron McCormick]

Hello.

[Dr. Clayton]

I'm looking for Mr. S. Parker Jackson. I have. Oh, haven't I seen you two before some place?

[Myron McCormick]

Of course you have. We were the two folks who. You remember. Dixie Martel's.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, yes. You will pardon my bad memory, I hope. How are you?

[Myron McCormick]

So so.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, that's too bad. And you, young lady?

[Juan]

Fine, Mr. Andrews. And you?

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, I can't complain. Are you waiting for Mr. Jackson?

[Co-Host]

Who isn't?

[Myron McCormick]

Is that a clock you've got in that package?

[Dr. Clayton]

Yes. Mr. Jackson wanted me to repair it. A great rush. I had to promise to have it here exactly at this time. And now. Will he be here soon?

[Myron McCormick]

Maybe. If we can reach him.

[Dr. Clayton]

He hasn't gone away, has he?

[Myron McCormick]

Well, after a fashion. But you can leave the clock. Leave it with me. I'll see that it gets into the right hands.

[Dr. Clayton]

I am sorry, I cannot do that.

[Myron McCormick]

Why not?

[Dr. Clayton]

Mr. Jackson is very particular about his clocks.

[Myron McCormick]

But you aren't.

[Dr. Clayton]

What?

[Myron McCormick]

The one you repaired for Dixie was a very bad job.

[Juan]

Why, Pete. That's right. It didn't go.

[Myron McCormick]

Took you a long time to remember that, Hilda.

[Juan]

How about you?

[Myron McCormick]

Took me a long time, too. No, Mr. Anderson, I am afraid I.

[Dr. Clayton]

Don'T quite understand what you young people are talking about.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, then, let me put it this way. That clock you've got wrapped up has got a drawer in it. I did not notice a drawer you put in it. That's the kind of repair work that you've been doing for Steve Jackson.

[Dr. Clayton]

Hi, young man.

[Myron McCormick]

Shall we check?

[Dr. Clayton]

Leave this package alone.

[Myron McCormick]

We're checking, Mr. Andrews.

[Co-Host]

He said leave it alone.

[Myron McCormick]

Oh.

[Janice]

Hey.

[Dr. Clayton]

Oh, I'm sorry. I did not mean to hurt you.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, the old guy's got a grip like a pair of handcuffs.

[Dr. Clayton]

I'll come back later. When, Mr. Jackson.

[Co-Host]

Just a minute.

[Dr. Clayton]

Don't stop me, young fellow.

[Myron McCormick]

You won't take me by surprise again. You never knew what was going into those clocks, did you?

[Dr. Clayton]

I want you to get out of my way.

[Myron McCormick]

But when Dixie Martell brought a clock to you, not for repair, but for safekeeping, you looked in the drawer, you saw the diamonds.

[Dr. Clayton]

I am warning you, young men, you took them.

[Myron McCormick]

That is, you thought you took all of them. Then you went to her apartment this morning and strangled her.

[Dr. Clayton]

I am not going to warn you again.

[Myron McCormick]

It's no use, Mr. Andrews. I can wrestle, too.

[Narrator]

You strangled her just to make sure you could keep the diamond.

[Myron McCormick]

That wasn't nice, Mr. Andrews. That was murder. Oh, a hot dog, a bottle of pop and dull.

[Juan]

I just can't get over it, Pete. Mr. Andrews, he did it.

[Myron McCormick]

The police found the diamonds in the back of his store.

[Juan]

Greed, greed, greed.

[Myron McCormick]

Once is too much, Hilda.

[Juan]

What people won't do for money.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, if they wouldn't do it, it'd be all right. But the trouble is, they do. Hmm. You can't beat it, honey. Ask Mr. Andrew. And when you get through asking him, you can ask Steve and Mona.

[Juan]

You think they'll get 20 years?

[Myron McCormick]

Maybe 30. But if I were the judge.

[Juan]

Someday, darling.

[Myron McCormick]

Yes. Come on, let's get some peanuts.

[Juan]

Pete, what made you suspect Mr. Andrews?

[Myron McCormick]

I was alive.

[Juan]

What?

[Myron McCormick]

And I wouldn't have been if Steve were a killer.

[Juan]

Oh, you mean.

[Co-Host]

That's right.

[Myron McCormick]

I knew too much about his business, but he didn't kill me. So when Andrews came in.

[Juan]

Make it simple, dear.

[Myron McCormick]

I took a chance, that's all.

[Co-Host]

And it worked.

[Myron McCormick]

Well, where can I get peanuts around here?

[Juan]

Are you going to eat them?

[Myron McCormick]

Why not? Squirrels do. Are we any better? We're not even as smart.

[Dr. Clayton]

And so closes tonight's story. No time for murder. Stedman Coles wrote the radio script. Roger Bauer produced and directed. Myron McCormick played Peter Woods. Charlotte Lawrence was Hilda Ryan. Raymond Edward Johnson was Steve Jackson. Cameron Princess played Carl Andrews. And Gene, Ellen was Dixie Martel.

[Advertiser]

I beg your pardon.

[Myron McCormick]

Hello.

[Dr. Clayton]

I hope I haven't kept you waiting. Yes, this is the Crime Club. I'm the librarian. Yes. Come over a week from tonight. Good. We have the very unusual story of a trip that was arranged by death. It's called Cowhide. In the meantime. Well, in the meantime, there is a new Crime Club book available this week and every week at bookstores everywhere. Yes, it's available now. Fine. And we'll look for you next week.

[Host]

This program came from New York. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[William N. Robeson]

We just heard Myron McCormick in Door of Gold, Madman of Manhattan and Crime Club. That will do it for this week's show. Thanks so much for joining me. I hope you'll be back next week for more old time radio thrillers. In the meantime, you can check out down these Mean Streets, my old time radio Detective podcast. New episodes of that show come out on Sundays. If you like what you're hearing, don't be a stranger. You can rate and review the show on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com mean sts otr now, good night until next week when I'll be back with another Hollywood legend starring in more tales well calculated. To keep you in.

[Co-Host]

Suspense.

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen.

[Co-Host]

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.

[Host]

Of our children and make them better.

[Co-Host]

Neighbors to all races and religions. Remind them that being good neighbors has helped make our country great and kept her free. Thank you.