Episode 426 - Stars of "Laura"

Summary

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Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio): Episode 426 - Stars of "Laura" (November 6, 2025)

Episode Overview

This special episode of Stars on Suspense marks a new format: instead of spotlighting just a single Hollywood legend per week, the host features actors who co-starred on screen (in this case, Otto Preminger’s noir classic Laura) and their memorable turns as leads in “Suspense”—radio’s famed “Theater of Thrills.” To celebrate “Noir Vember,” the episode brings together Dana Andrews, Clifton Webb, and Vincent Price in four standout radio stories, including an adaptation of Laura itself.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Segments

[00:55] Introduction and New Format

• Host (Mean Streets Podcasts) introduces the change: multiple actors who co-starred in a film, with episodes highlighting both their “Suspense” performances and a movie adaptation.
• Laura (1944) chosen as lead-off title for “Noir Vember.” Describes the core plot: the murder of young executive Laura Hunt and the detective’s (Dana Andrews’ Mark McPherson) obsession with her.
• Gives background on actors: Dana Andrews (detective Mark McPherson), Vincent Price, and Clifton Webb (the suspects). Notes all three visited the Suspense microphone in their careers.

[07:10] Segment 1: Dana Andrews in "Two Birds with One Stone" (Aired: May 17, 1945)

Plot Summary

• Dana Andrews stars as Walter Faber, a writer married to Eleanor. Their relationship is tense and fraught.
• Walter manipulates Eleanor to record a “suicide” note on his dictaphone, under the guise of helping with his play.
• Eleanor disappears during a rainy night walk; Walter feigns concern but the audience learns he murdered her at the wharf.
• Evidence—particularly the dog Tracy’s actions and the record—slowly turns suspicion to Walter.
• Ultimately, a twist reveals Walter’s guilt as he tries to kill to cover his tracks, but he’s caught thanks to a confession overheard by police.
• ends with a darkly sardonic line as Walter realizes his plan failed.

Insights & Atmosphere

• Classic “Suspense” mix of everyday domestic tension and mounting dread.
• Use of audio cues and the dog Tracy as a near-psychic witness is classic radio storytelling.

Notable Quotes

• Dana Andrews (as Walter): “Maybe we’re not like we used to be.” [10:22]
• Walter (confessing under pressure): “I hated her. I knew I’d never be rid of her.” [31:52]
• Walter (resigned): “Well, okay. I guess I’m even a worse playwright than I thought.” [33:15]

Important Timestamps

• [08:22] – Walter and Eleanor record the ‘suicide’ message.
• [18:12] – The murder at the wharf.
• [24:06] – Playback of Eleanor's final, staged “suicide note.”
• [31:52] – Walter's confession and breakdown.

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[36:52] Segment 2: Clifton Webb in "The Burning Court" (Aired: June 14, 1945)

Plot Summary

• Clifton Webb is Godin Cross, an urbane murder historian and the narrator. He’s called into the mystery of a poisoned uncle and a wife whose ancestor was a famed poisoner.
• The plot weaves family secrets, reincarnation, and old crimes—a blend of campfire ghost story and drawing-room whodunit.
• Ted Covington’s wife eerily mirrors her poisoner ancestress—her portrait is even identical.
• Webb’s Cross unspools flashbacks, and the story descends into gothic intrigue with empty coffins and accusations.
• The resolution inverts expectations: Ted Covington, not his wife, is the actual murderer, with Cross guiding the police to this conclusion.

Insights & Tone

• Webb’s performance is arch and witty, skating between self-parody and the macabre—a perfect fit for this gothic-mystery twist.

Notable Quotes

• Clifton Webb (as Cross): “Primarily because I can tell it more beautifully, Mrs. Covington.” [50:08]
• Webb’s signature line: “A policeman who reads! Extraordinary.” [39:12]
• Cross (to Covington): “Maybe you’d be quite comfortable in an asylum for the insane.” [60:17]

Important Timestamps

• [39:00] – Cross introduces the cast of suspects.
• [57:30] – Cross’s monologue on the supernatural and his indictment of Ted Covington.
• [60:30+] – The chilling tea scene and “poisoned” denouement.

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[66:07] Segment 3: Vincent Price in "The Name of the Beast" (Aired: April 11, 1946)

Plot Summary

• Price stars as artist James Dorrance, who becomes entangled with Elmer Krebs, a criminal whose face embodies “the beast.”
• Dorrance becomes Krebs’s accomplice, erasing evidence of murder to secure the perfect model for his magnum opus.
• Themes of obsession, artistic purpose, and moral corruption emerge as Dorrance becomes a participant and ultimately is set up by Krebs.
• Ultimately, a tangled web forms between Dorrance, Krebs, and Jeannie—a femme fatale—leading to double-crosses and murder.

Insights & Standout Moments

• The story leans heavily on noir motifs: blurred moral lines, the allure and terror of violence, and the artist’s descent.
• Price’s velvety voice carries the dread and intoxication of both crime and artistic inspiration.

Notable Quotes

• Vincent Price (as Dorrance): “Any intelligent man can get away with murder if he keeps his wits about him.” [72:10]
• Dorrance: “The name of the beast was Krebs. Elmer Krebs.” [67:40]
• “I shot him. You gave me a murderer’s name, and now I am a murderer.” [88:32]

Important Timestamps

• [67:40] – Price’s first encounter with Krebs, setting the story in motion.
• [76:57] – Tension between artist and model over the bloodstained portrait.
• [88:22] – The emotional climax and final murders.
• [91:25] – The philosophical postscript: “What is the name of the beast?”

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[95:57] Segment 4: Laura – Lady Esther Screen Guild Players Radio Adaptation (Aired: August 20, 1945)

Overview

• This segment is an all-star radio retelling of Laura featuring Dana Andrews (Mark), Gene Tierney (Laura), and Clifton Webb (Lydecker), echoing their film roles.
• The story closely follows the film: Mark McPherson’s investigation, Lydecker’s manipulations, Carpenter’s duplicity, and the twist of Laura’s return.
• Snappy dialogue and sly humor punctuate the investigation and the love triangle, capped by the iconic clock concealing the murder weapon.

Notable Quotes

• Clifton Webb: “I write with a goose quill dipped in venom.” [101:39]
• Dana Andrews (McPherson): “Murder is murder, and a dame’s a dame. Personally, I never got mixed up with either.” [97:03]
• Clifton Webb: “You better watch yourself, McPherson, or you’ll end up in the psychiatric ward. I don’t think they’ve ever had a patient who fell in love with a portrait.” [110:42]
• Lydecker’s grand confession: “The best part of myself, that’s what you are. Think I’d leave it to the vulgar pawing of a second-rate detective who thinks you’re a dame?” [121:39]

Important Timestamps

• [97:03] – Andrews as McPherson introduces the Laura case.
• [100:13] – Lydecker’s sardonic reflections on love and murder.
• [111:25] – Laura returns, alive—the dramatic twist.
• [121:31] – The climactic confrontation when Lydecker reveals the hidden gun.

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Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Clifton Webb’s razor-sharp putdowns, especially as Lydecker: “Hand me that washcloth, please. Thank you. As you probably know from reading my column, murder is a hobby of mine.” [97:59]
• Vincent Price’s poetic dread: “Like your murder, Elmer. After a life of petty crime, at last an act of yours really means something.” [70:00]
• Recurring motif of the Laura portrait: Mark’s obsession with the painting mirrors the original noir’s psycho-sexual undertones.

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Thematic Linkages & Host’s Perspective

• The host contextualizes each performance within the golden-era Hollywood and radio culture, drawing links between the film’s themes (obsession, illusion, and identity) and the tension-driven Suspense radio style.
• Connects the “Noir Vember” celebration to the legacy of radio noir and the enduring resonance of these stories.

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Final Thoughts

This episode is a nostalgic and thrilling cross-section of film noir and old-time radio, focusing less on showbiz background and more on the dark psychological drama each actor brought to “Suspense.” The dialogue crackles, the atmosphere is thick with dread and wit, and the radio format allows legendary film stars to stretch their dramatic muscles in new ways.

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Navigation: Timestamps for Key Segments

| Time | Segment/Content | |--------|--------------------------------------------------------| | 00:55 | Host introduction and new format explanation | | 07:10 | Dana Andrews – "Two Birds with One Stone" | | 36:52 | Clifton Webb – "The Burning Court" | | 66:07 | Vincent Price – "Name of the Beast" | | 95:57 | "Laura" radio adaptation – Lady Esther Screen Guild | | 126:39 | Outro/closing remarks |

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Source References

All quotes and content are transcribed directly from the episode. Attribution and timestamps as above. For those who missed the broadcast, this summary will walk you through all major story beats, capturing the tone, snappy dialogue, and psychological intensity that made both Laura and “Suspense” legendary in their genres.

Transcript

[Dana Andrews]

Now, let's see.

[Clifton Webb]

Suspect, Suspect, suspend.

[Vincent Price]

Ah, here we are.

[Clifton Webb]

Suspense, the condition of mental uncertainty usually.

[Vincent Price]

Accompanied by apprehension or anxiety.

[Clifton Webb]

Fear of something which is about to occur as do not keep me any longer in suspense.

[Podcast Host]

Hello and welcome to Stars on Suspense, presenting legends of Hollywood and radio's outstanding Theater of Thrills. Since this show began back in 2016, each episode is focused on an actor, actress and their appearances on Suspense. But beginning with this episode, we're tweaking the format. So instead of spotlighting just one performer, we'll hear from several actors who all co starred starred together in the same film as well as an old time radio adaptation of the movie. And since we're in November or Noir Vember if you choose to celebrate, I thought of no better movie to lead off with than Laura. Otto Preminger's 1944 classic mystery. It was nominated for five Academy Awards and the American Film Institute named it one of the ten best mystery films of all time. When the story opens, beautiful young advertising executive Laura Hunt has been murdered and Detective Mark McPherson is assigned to the case. He soon discovers there were several people who may have wanted Laura dead, all while he finds himself increasingly obsessed with the image and idea of the victim. The movie stars three actors who made visits to the suspense microphone. Dana Andrews plays the homicide detective and Vincent Price and Clifton Webb are two of the suspects. No spoilers if you've never seen it. As of today, it doesn't appear to be streaming anywhere for free, but you can rent or buy it digitally on Amazon, Apple or vudu. The Blu ray from a few years ago appears to be out of print, but you can still pick up a DVD online. Today we'll hear Messrs. Andrews, Webb and Price beginning with Dana Andrews in Two Birds with One Stone. Originally aired on CBS on May 17, 1945. This was the first of four appearances Dana Andrews, maid on suspense. He stars here as a writer who murders his wife and he has a clever plan involving a dictaphone machine to make her death look like a suicide. Next up is Clifton Webb, who made only one appearance on the show in the burning court from June 14, 1945. It's based on a story by John Dixon Carr, and the story was also adapted as the very first episode of suspense back in 1942. Webb plays a celebrated mystery writer. He arrives on the scene when an old man is murdered and one of the suspects may be the reincarnation of one of history's most notorious poisoners. Then it's Vincent Price, an actor who was no stranger to suspense we'll hear him in the Name of the Beast from April 11, 1946. Price plays an artist who's discovered a new muse. He hires a murderer to be the model for his painting, and in exchange, he offers to help the man cover up his crimes. And finally, we'll hear Dana Andrews and Clifton Webb, along with Gene Tierney, who recreates the title role as the lady Esther. Screen Guild Theater presents a radio adaptation of Laura. The show originally aired on CBS on August 20, 1945. Our feature presentation of suspense will begin right after these messages.

[Dana Andrews]

Let's turn back the clock about 24 hours and drop in on Mr. And Mrs. Johnson. They're just returning from a football game. Well, here we are.

[Vincent Price]

Home at last.

[Dana Andrews]

And boy, am I hungry.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

So am I. Let's start thinking about some food. Big juicy hamburgers, maybe.

[Dana Andrews]

Say, that's for me with plenty of catsup.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Uh huh.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Del Monte ketchup. It has such marvelous flavor.

[Dana Andrews]

And Mrs. Johnson really knows her catsup.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Del Monte Catsup. The zestiest, liveliest catsup that ever pleased a man. Now that football season is in full swing, you'll find Del Monte Catsup a bigger help than ever when planning lunches.

[Dana Andrews]

Before the game or supper afterwards.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

It's a smart hostess who serves hearty.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Food and lots of it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

With plenty of Del Monte Catsup. Handy to add bright, rich spots.

[Dana Andrews]

Spice tomato flavor. Yes, that marvelous tomato flavor you find.

[Narrator/Announcer]

In Del Monte Catsup.

[Dana Andrews]

The only catsup made with pineapple vinegar. That superlative vinegar that coaxes out all the best in tomato flavor.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Remember, for real zip and zest, it's Del Monte Catsup every time.

[Dana Andrews]

Next time you go shopping, look for Del Monte catsup.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You'll like its quality and you'll like it. Thrifty price.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Tomorrow is the beginning of another weekend. Two whole days to relax and have fun.

[Dana Andrews]

You'll be planning picnics and backyard barbecues. Just be sure there's plenty of Pabst Blue Ribbon cooling in your icebox tomorrow morning.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ask your dealer for a case in cans or bottles. Pabst Blue Ribbon is the finest beer served anywhere.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Your taste will tell you why.

[Dana Andrews]

Your best bet for hot breakfast is Quaker Oats. The giant of the cereals is Quaker Oats. Delicious, nutritious, makes you feel ambitious. The giant of the cereal is Quaker Oats. Yes, if you want to be a star in sports and school activities, make your hot cereal Quaker Oats. Cause Quaker Oats helps grow the stars of the future. You get more growth, more endurance from oatmeal than from any other Whole Grain cereal. Remember, Quaker and Mother's oats are the same. And now a tale well calculated. To keep you in suspense.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now the Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California presents.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Suspense Tonight, Roma Wine bring you this suspenseful play called Two Birds with One Stone, starring Mr. Dana Andrews.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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. And entertaining guests to your enjoyment of everyday meals.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Right. Now a glassful would be very pleasant as Roma Wines bring you a remarkable tale of suspense.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And with two birds, with one stone and with the performance of Mr. Dana Andrews, Roma Wines hope indeed, to keep you in suspense.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You ready? That's the voice. Not so loud, not so loud. We want to surprise him. You don't want him to hear it before his birthday, do you? All right, all right, all right. I'll put the recorder on. And you're only to speak when I tell you to. Now do you understand? Now, here we go. Walter. Hello, Walter. This is Eleanor Walder and this. Speak, speak, speak. This is Tracy, and we're saying happy birthday from your loving wife and your faithful dog, Tracy. Isn't Tracy a smart dog, Walter? He can talk. Can't you, Tracy? Speak up. Speak up. Tell us everything you know. You didn't know Tracy could talk, did you? But he can. He knows lots of things. Tell us everything you know, Tracy. Now, that's enough. That's enough, Tracy. Do you want him to hear us?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

There.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

When the record's finished, we'll mark the label not to be played until May 17, 1945. Eleanor and Tracy there tomorrow. We'll play it for him the first thing in the morning. I bet you're the first dog that's ever made a record. Now, what do you know about that, huh? No, no, no.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, no.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Yeah.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes, dear.

[Vincent Price]

What are you doing?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Nothing. Just waiting for you.

[Dana Andrews]

What's all the racket about?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Just Tracy and I roughhousing.

[Dana Andrews]

I wish you wouldn't do that when I'm trying to write.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I'm sorry, darling. I thought you were finished.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, I'm not.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You said you'd work till 11. Then we'd take Tracy for a walk. It's after 11 now.

[Dana Andrews]

I didn't think I was going to get stuck.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

We belong.

[Dana Andrews]

How do I know how long I'll be? It's hard work for me to write a play. I'm not Tolstoy.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I'm sorry, darling. I just can't seem to say Anything anymore without getting on your nerves.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

We.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

We didn't used to be like this.

[Dana Andrews]

Maybe we're not like we used to be.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Poor Tracy. He wants to go.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, we'll never go unless I get that second act curtain fixed.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Wish I could help, dear.

[Dana Andrews]

Maybe you can. Eleanor, what would you say if you were thinking of committing suicide. And you didn't want anyone to know exactly what your plans were? What would be the last thing you'd say? To your husband, for instance?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I don't know. I never thought about such things. Shh.

[Vincent Price]

Shh.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Tracy. Shh, boy. Walter, couldn't you work it out tomorrow? You'll be fresh in the morning.

[Dana Andrews]

I said I'd finish this, and I'm going to if it takes all night.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, Tracy and I'll have to go for a walk alone. Come on. Come on, Tracy. Come on, boy.

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, Eleanor, you said you wanted to help me.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, if I thought I could.

[Dana Andrews]

You helped me the other day.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Only with what your leading lady's dress looked like.

[Dana Andrews]

About the suicide.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Oh.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

First of all, why is this girl committing suicide?

[Dana Andrews]

She's. She's tired, bored.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, darling, no wonder you can't make it convincing. People don't just commit suicide because they're bored.

[Dana Andrews]

Yes, they do. People do even worse than that when they're bored.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, wa. I've been bored lots of times, but I've never even thought.

[Dana Andrews]

I can see you're not going to be much help.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I'll help you, honey. What's the girl like? She married?

[Dana Andrews]

Yes.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Is she in love with her husband?

[Dana Andrews]

Well, she doesn't know anymore.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

How could she not know?

[Dana Andrews]

Eleanor, you may not understand her, but you've got to take my word for it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, let's see.

[Dana Andrews]

Would she say, eleanor, let's try it this way. You know, sometimes the very first things you think of are the best. Just say whatever you think she'd say without stopping. You know a little about the character. Just say whatever comes into your head. Now try it. I won't interrupt you.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

All right.

[Dana Andrews]

But, Eleanor, did they fix the recording machine today?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes. Yeah, why?

[Dana Andrews]

Have you tried it out yet?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

No, No, I was just going to.

[Dana Andrews]

I'll tell you what we'll do then. We'll try it out by cutting a record of what you say now. It'll be spontaneous, unrehearsed. I've thought too much about it. Maybe that's why I can't do it. But yours will be fresh, and we'll play it back and change it and work on it after we hear it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, wouldn't it be better, darling, please.

[Dana Andrews]

Pry it my way before you have a chance to think too much about it. Oh, come on. You've got a record right there, haven't you? Is there anything on it?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, one side's blank.

[Dana Andrews]

All right, come on. And make it emotional, convincing. You ready? All right, go ahead.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Maybe it's foolish of me to do what I'm thinking of doing, but I don't see any other way. I'm confused and bored, I guess. Bored most of all. And maybe what I'm going to do will solve things for both of us.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Goodbye.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, that was good, Eleanor. I can get a lot of ideas from that.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Is that the end of the record?

[Dana Andrews]

Yes. You see, you have helped me after all.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I thought it was terrible. I'm no writer, Walden.

[Dana Andrews]

It was all right. Of course, I may change a word here and there, but it was all right, really.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, can we go walking now?

[Dana Andrews]

Yes. Get your coat.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

All right, baby. All right. Here we go. Here we go.

[Dana Andrews]

Eleanor, would you mind if we left, Tracy?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Huh?

[Dana Andrews]

Why, I. I feel so tired. I thought I'd like to stop at Joe's for some coffee.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

We can take him in with us.

[Dana Andrews]

No, we can't. Remember what Joe said last time we had him in there?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, I'd forgotten. I don't see why he has to act that way about dogs. We just spoiled Joe. Just because he gave you music lessons as a child, he thinks he can treat us any way he wants.

[Dana Andrews]

No, Eleanor, he has his customers. To think people don't like to have dogs hanging around an eating place. It isn't Joe's fault.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, poor Tracy. He knows he's not wanted.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, that's the way Joe feels about it. We'll only stay a few minutes and then we'll come back for Tracy.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

All right. I suppose we have to, Tracy. You wait now. We won't be long. Then we'll come back for you. Oh, we'd take you now, boy, but we can't. Look, Walter, it's almost as if he understands.

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah. Expect him to up and answer you one of these days.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, come on, huh? Let's go so we can hurry back. Will only be 20 minutes. Boy. Did you see him look at the clock?

[Dana Andrews]

I thought I saw him look at his wristwatch.

[Podcast Host]

Fool.

[Dana Andrews]

Come on.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You know, old Joe's got a nerve, not wanting dogs in here. Look at some of these customers.

[Dana Andrews]

Don't be bitter.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I don't think we ought to come in here anymore. Even if he is an old friend of yours.

[Dana Andrews]

It'd Break his heart if we could quit coming here. You know that, Eleanor. How else could he worry about me and keep an eye on me if we didn't come in here once in a while? Look, they've got new records in the jukebox.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

It's about time. See what they've got. Did you say New Blue Heaven together? Gloomy Sunday.

[Dana Andrews]

Gloomy Sunday. I haven't heard that one in a long time.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Would you like to?

[Dana Andrews]

Let's order first.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Let's sit at a table. Make him wait on us for a change. No dogs allowed. He's got a nerve. Honestly, I'd never.

[Dana Andrews]

Here he comes. Now, don't start anything, Eleanor.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I'm off of Joe and I don't care if he knows it.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Good evening, Walter. Mrs. Faber. What'll it be tonight, huh?

[Dana Andrews]

Hello, Joe. Just coffee. Well, you got any of that seven layers?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Yes.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I think I can fix you up.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Nothing for me.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I haven't seen you in quite a while.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You're not going to see me in here anymore at all, Joe.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Huh?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Why not?

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, Joe, never mind. We're in a hurry.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

But why do you say that, Mrs. Faber?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Never mind. I'm gonna play a record. Walter, I'll be right back.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

What is the matter with your wife? Maybe I did something.

[Dana Andrews]

No, no, Jo, it's. It's nothing you've done. But you notice it, too.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I notice what?

[Dana Andrews]

How depressed she is.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yes, but why?

[Dana Andrews]

If you could understand women, Jo, you wouldn't be in this business.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

That record she's playing in Hungary, we called that the Suicide Song.

[Dana Andrews]

Bring us some coffee, will you, Joe? Maybe that'll pick her up.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yeah, all right, Walter.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, even if you don't like old Joe, you've got to admit he certainly bakes a wonderful cake.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I'm not interested. Let's go.

[Dana Andrews]

What's your hurry?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I don't like this place and I'm not coming back anymore.

[Dana Andrews]

It's not so loud.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I don't care if he does hear me.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Well, good night, folks.

[Dana Andrews]

Good night.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Where are you going? We have to go back after Tracy.

[Dana Andrews]

Look, Eleanor, it's starting to rain. If we go back now, we won't get our walk in at all.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, Walter. But we promised him.

[Dana Andrews]

Let's just run down by the wharf, shall we? And if it doesn't rain too hard, we can go back for Tracy.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Maybe you're right. Gee, it is beginning to come down.

[Dana Andrews]

Come on. The river's wonderful when it's raining.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Maybe we better go back.

[Dana Andrews]

We won't get wet if we make it A quick one.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Come on, Walter. Let's go back.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Walter.

[Dana Andrews]

Come on, Eleanor.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Come on.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Walter.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Walter.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Walder.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Walter.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Walter, where are you? Walter, I'm just soaking wet. Now, if this is a game.

[Dana Andrews]

This isn't a game, Eleanor.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Walter, you frighten me, standing in the shadows like that. Come on now, let's go home. I'm just freezing.

[Dana Andrews]

Look at the river. It's beautiful, isn't it?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, please, let's go home.

[Dana Andrews]

Dark and mysterious and dirty.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Let's go back.

[Dana Andrews]

It's not dirty, Eleanor. And if it is, it's dull, boring people who've made it that way.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Whatever it is. I'm cold.

[Dana Andrews]

Eleanor.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes?

[Dana Andrews]

Come over here.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

No, I'm going home.

[Dana Andrews]

Look, over the edge here. The way the water washes over the piling.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, please, Walter, let's go home.

[Dana Andrews]

Just a minute longer, then we'll go.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

All right, but promise.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Walter.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Walter. What? Walter, what's wrong with you? Walter. Let me go. Water.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

No. No, Tracy.

[Dana Andrews]

Drown, you dumb cluck. Well, it's two birds with One Stone, I guess.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

For suspense, Roma wines are bringing you as star, Dana Andrews, whom you have heard in the first act of Mel Danelli's Two Birds with One Stone, which is Roma Wines presentation tonight of suspense.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Between the acts of suspense. This is Truman Bradley for Roma Wayne. To millions all over the world, the name Elsa Maxwell stands for gracious hospitality. Her suggestions on entertaining are eagerly sought. And here's an especially timely one.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Planning a simple dinner for friends during these days of food rationing calls for imagination in making plain dishes temptingly attractive. I suggest the simple, inexpensive touch that Roma lends making party fare out of the most ordinary supper. Serve cool Roma, California Burgundy with the meal, if possible, too, dine by candlelight. The tart piquancy of deliciously robust Roma Red Burgundy and the soft, flattering lighting heightens the pleasure of dining.

[Narrator/Announcer]

That's a grand suggestion of Elsa Maxwell's dinner by candlelight with distinctive Roma Burgundy. Truly an appealing idea. Like all Roma wines, Roma Burgundy is of unvarying goodness. The goodness of selected grapes guided to flavor fullness by the ancient wine skill of Roma's famed wineries. Serve Roma regularly. It costs only pennies a glass. Remember, more Americans enjoy Roma than any other wine. R O M A Roma Wines.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And now, Roma wines. Bring back to our Hollywood soundstage, Dana Andrews as Walter Faber in Two Birds with One Stone, a tale well calculated to keep you in suspense.

[Dana Andrews]

Joe Jones.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

What's the matter, Walter?

[Dana Andrews]

Have you seen my wife?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Not since you were here a while ago.

[Dana Andrews]

She's Disappeared, Joe?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

What do you mean?

[Dana Andrews]

We went for a walk after we.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Left here in the rain.

[Dana Andrews]

She insisted. You saw how she was acting. Yes, but she got away from me down by the wharf. I couldn't find her. I thought maybe she'd come back here.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I haven't seen her, Walter.

[Dana Andrews]

Joe. Joe, will you help me try and find her?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Oh, sure. Nick, I'm going out. Take over, will you?

[Dana Andrews]

All right. I can't think of any other place to look. What am I going to do?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

She will turn up. Don't worry.

[Dana Andrews]

Walter, I don't know. She's been acting so strange lately.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

What about the dog?

[Dana Andrews]

What do you mean?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Was he with her?

[Dana Andrews]

Well, yes. Yes, he was.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

She'll be all right, then. He'll look after her. Let's go to your apartment. She might have gone back there.

[Dana Andrews]

Might as well, I guess. But she was sore at me. I don't think she would have gone back home.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

We'd better have a look anyway.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Anyway?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Ah, look there.

[Dana Andrews]

Walter, what's the matter?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

The door to your apartment, it is open. Didn't you lock it on your left?

[Dana Andrews]

I. I didn't lock it, but I remember closing it.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Maybe she's come back.

[Dana Andrews]

No, she couldn't have. I mean.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Come on, let's go in.

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, Eleanor. You see, there's no one here. I'll look in the kitchen. You go in the bedroom. Joe.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yeah?

[Vincent Price]

Walter, what is it? Come here.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

In the bedroom.

[Dana Andrews]

What's the matter?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I've gone to bed.

[Dana Andrews]

There. No, it couldn't be.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I thought you said the dog was with her.

[Dana Andrews]

He was. Yes, he was with her.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Then she must be here, too.

[Dana Andrews]

No, she couldn't be.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Why not?

[Dana Andrews]

I mean. Oh, Eleanor. Eleanor.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Look at how still the poor dog lies. Maybe he's been hurt. He's soaking wet.

[Dana Andrews]

It was raining, wasn't it?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yes, it was raining. What's the matter, Tracy? What's the matter, boy? I guess he's all right. But the way he stares at her.

[Dana Andrews]

Joe.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Huh? What's the matter?

[Dana Andrews]

Just remembered a record. She made it tonight just before we left the house. She wouldn't let me hear it. She wouldn't tell me what it was. Even she said I could listen to it after we came back from our walk. It's in here on the machine.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

We'd better play it.

[Vincent Price]

Walter.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Maybe it's foolish of me to do what I'm thinking of doing, but I don't see any other way. I'm confused and bored, I guess. Bored most of all. And maybe what I'm going to do will solve things for both of us.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Goodbye.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I think we had better call the police, Walter.

[Dana Andrews]

What for?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

To have them look for her.

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, yes, of course.

[Captain Brennan]

Is there anything else you.

[Dana Andrews]

No, that's all.

[Captain Brennan]

Then you believe the recording was intended as a suicide note?

[Dana Andrews]

Yes.

[Clifton Webb]

Mm.

[Captain Brennan]

I. I would like to talk to Mr. Weiss here alone for a moment.

[Vincent Price]

I'll.

[Dana Andrews]

I'll be in the bedroom if you need me.

[Vincent Price]

All right.

[Captain Brennan]

Mr. Weiss, how long have you known Mr. Favor?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

For many years. I gave him music lessons as a child.

[Captain Brennan]

Can you add anything to what he's already told us?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Well, she was acting just like he said. I noticed it the moment she walked into my place. She's usually very friendly. And she said something about my not seeing her anymore.

[Captain Brennan]

Anything else?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

That's all.

[Clifton Webb]

Mm.

[Captain Brennan]

And you did hear them play the record Gloomy Sunday?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yes.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, we've had a couple of suicide cases where that song has come up before. I think Mr. Faber better prepare himself for the worst.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I'm afraid, sir.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, look, I'll go along now. Faber will probably want to come with us, but I think he better stay here. There's no telling what we'll find.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Is there anything I can do?

[Captain Brennan]

Yes. Yes, I suggest that you get in touch with his family. I think he ought to have someone here with him.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

He has no family.

[Captain Brennan]

Oh, then perhaps you'd stay.

[Clifton Webb]

Of course.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, we'll call you the minute we have any news. Good night.

[Dana Andrews]

Joe.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yeah?

[Dana Andrews]

Did the officer go? Yes, he did, But I think I should have gone with him.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No, no, no.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

He said for him stay here. He'll call us. Walter, have you noticed Tracy through all of this?

[Dana Andrews]

What about him?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I don't know. It's depressing just to look at him.

[Dana Andrews]

That's because you don't like dogs, Joe.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

No, you're mistaken, Walter. I do like dogs. I never did know why you asked me to. Tell your wife not to bring him into my place anymore.

[Dana Andrews]

Would you like a drink, Joe?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

No, thanks. Strange the way that dog follows you around every move you make. It's almost as if he were trying to say something.

[Dana Andrews]

He's all right. Come here, Tracy. Come here. Come here, Tracy.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

He was her dog, wasn't he?

[Dana Andrews]

Yes. She bought him.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

His eyes are almost like a human's, aren't they?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Yeah.

[Dana Andrews]

Stop it, Tracy. Stop following me around.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

No, no. You are to get hold of yourself, Walter.

[Vincent Price]

Yes.

[Dana Andrews]

Yes, I guess I'm pretty upset with all that's happened.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Tracy is too. He knows something's wrong.

[Dana Andrews]

He doesn't know anything. Will you stop it?

[Captain Brennan]

Joe.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Huh?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Oh, well, I'm sorry.

[Dana Andrews]

We both need sleep. That couch is pretty comfortable, Joe.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Oh, that would be fine for me. What about Tracy?

[Dana Andrews]

He usually sleeps on that chair over there. Well, I'll go on to bed. Good night.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Good night.

[Dana Andrews]

No, Tracy, don't follow me. Get over there in your chair.

[Captain Brennan]

You know about your chair.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Now go up.

[Dana Andrews]

Get away from me. Joe.

[Vincent Price]

Joe.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Just a minute.

[Dana Andrews]

Joe, Were you talking in there? Did you call me?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

No, no, I was asleep. You must have heard Tracy scratching at the door.

[Dana Andrews]

Here, Joe, Keep him out of here, will you? Keep him in the living room.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yes, I will.

[Dana Andrews]

Joe, I've got to get rid of that dog first thing tomorrow.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Maybe my wife and I will take him.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

No.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Why not?

[Dana Andrews]

It'll be too hard seeing him around. I don't want to see him anymore. I don't want him around.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Well, you better try and get some sleep. You can talk about it in the morning.

[Dana Andrews]

Yes. Well, good night.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Good night. Come on, Tracy. Come on, boy.

[Captain Brennan]

You'll.

[Dana Andrews]

You'll have to carry him. Pick him up, will you? Yes.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Here we go, boy. Say, he has got something sticky around his neck.

[Clifton Webb]

Here.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

He ought to have a bath. I'll get it. You stay in here, Walter.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Oh.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Oh, Officer.

[Captain Brennan]

I've bad news, Mr. Weiss. We found her. Where's Mr. Faber?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

In the bedroom.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, you'll have to help me break it to him.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Where did you find her?

[Captain Brennan]

In the river. She must have struck her head on the pilings when she jumped off the wharf. She was in pretty bad shape. Her clothes were torn and her arms were badly lacerated. We can't figure that out. Well, I guess we better go into Mr. Faber.

[Vincent Price]

Yes?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Yes.

[Dana Andrews]

What is it? Have you.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Walter. Walter, we. We have very bad news for you.

[Captain Brennan]

I'm sorry, Mr. Faber. There's nothing you can do now. As we suspected, it was suicide. There's no need of your coming down now. There was identification on her. But we would like to see you in the morning.

[Dana Andrews]

All right, I'll be down.

[Captain Brennan]

Good night.

[Dana Andrews]

Officer?

[Captain Brennan]

Yes?

[Dana Andrews]

Would you do me a favor?

[Captain Brennan]

Why, certainly.

[Dana Andrews]

This was her dog?

[Captain Brennan]

Yes.

[Dana Andrews]

I. I don't want him around anymore with her gone. Could you. Could you take him with you now?

[Captain Brennan]

Well, this is a bit irregular. What would you want done with him?

[Dana Andrews]

Just get him out of here. I don't care what you do with him.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I know you're upset, Walter, but don't do this to the dog. Decide about it tomorrow. You may feel different.

[Dana Andrews]

Don't stand there and argue with me, Joe. I know what I want. I'LL get him out of here, I tell you.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I guess you had better take him, Officer. You. You will have to carry him, I guess.

[Dana Andrews]

Yes.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, it's too bad. They'll probably put him out of the way.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yes, I know. Goodbye, T.R.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Walter. Hello, Walter. This is Eleanor, Walter, and. And this. Speak. Speak. This is Tracy. And we're saying happy birthday from your loving wife and your faithful dog, Tracy. Isn't Tracy a smart dog, Walter?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

He can.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Can't you, Tracy? Speak up. Tell us everything you know. You didn't know Tracy could talk, did you? But he can. He knows lots of things. Tell us everything you know, Tracy.

[Vincent Price]

Joe.

[Dana Andrews]

Yes, Joe, did you hear it?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Happy birthday, Walter.

[Dana Andrews]

How did you know it was my birthday?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Eleanor told me.

[Dana Andrews]

Eleanor?

[Vincent Price]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

Eleanor's dead.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Walter. You had a bad dream. Wake up.

[Vincent Price]

Dream.

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, Joe. I dreamt I.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

What did you dream?

[Dana Andrews]

I dreamt I murdered her. I mean, I.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Why did you do it, Walter?

[Dana Andrews]

It was a trick.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Why did you do it, Walter?

[Dana Andrews]

You won't tell anyone, will you, Joe? You won't, will you? I tell you, I had to do it, Joe. I hated her. I knew I'd never be rid of her.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I am going for the police.

[Dana Andrews]

Stay where you are, Joe. I've got a gun here. So you didn't give Tracy to the police after all. You wanted him here to drive me crazy. You knew all along. You suspected from the beginning.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

I suspected nothing until a while ago when I played the other side of this record. Now put that gun down, Walter.

[Dana Andrews]

Let the dog in. Go on, let him in. If it hadn't been for him, you'd have never known about Eleanor. But I'm going to fix both of you.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Now, you couldn't get away with one murder. Now I suppose you think you'll get away with two.

[Dana Andrews]

Pick the dog up. Go on, pick him up. That's right. Now, sit over there with him in your lap. Hold him close if you're so fond of him. It's going to be two birds with one stone again. Only this time, I'll make it stick.

[Captain Brennan]

Drop that gun, Favor. If that dog hadn't gotten away from us, you'd have been a goner, Mr. Weiss. And if I hadn't followed this dog back here, I wouldn't have overheard your very interesting confession, Mr. Faber.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, okay. I guess I'm even a worse playwright than I thought. Come on, Tracy. Let's go for a walk. I'll walk you down to the station. That's funny. Listen to him. This is the first time he's ever Wanted to go for a walk with me?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And so closes two birds with one stone. In which Roma Wines have brought you Dana Andrews as star of tonight's study in suspense. Suspense is produced, edited and directed by William Speer.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Before our star returns to the microphone, let me say a word for Roma Wines. The sponsor of suspense, the world famous hostess, Ms. Elsa Maxwell knows all the niceties of entertaining and she has this to say about simple wartime hospitality.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Good friends and good Roma California Sherry. These are the makings of a pleasant evening. Roma Sherry is ideal for any occasion. Before dinner, with appetizers or during friendly visits, you and your guests will enjoy the light nut like flavor of glorious amber colored Roma Sherry.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Especially served cool, delicious Roma wines cost only pennies a glass. Serve them often. Remember, more Americans enjoy Roma than any other wine. R O M A Roma Wines and the next time you use vermouth, choose Roma Vermouth. Zestful, full flavored Roma Vermouth is blended and developed with all the traditional wine making skill of Roma wineries. Is made and bottled in the heart of California's famous vineyards. Yet surprisingly low priced. Try both sweet and dry types of Roma vermouth soon, won't you?

[Dana Andrews]

This is Dana Andrews. I certainly enjoyed appearing on this evening's Suspense and I'll be looking forward to next week's show which will star my good friend Herbert Marshall. In the meantime, remember this. We've got the biggest home front effort of the war facing us right now. It's buying more bonds during the current seventh war loan. More than we've ever bought before. Last year by this time we had two war loan drives. This drive, the seventh war loan is the first this year. But it must do the job of two. For there'll be only two war loan drives in 1945. So buy more and larger war bonds now.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Dana Andrews appeared through the courtesy of 20th Century Fox and will soon be seen in their production State Fair. Next Thursday you will hear Mr. Herbert Marshall as star of suspense.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Presented by Roma Wines. R O M A A made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Now the Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California presents.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Suspense. Tonight Roma Wines bring you the suspenseful play called the Burning Court starring the distinguished actor whose current performance you have admired in the picture, Laura Clifton Webb.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is presented for your enjoyment by Roma Wines. That's R O M A Roma Wines, those excellent California wines that can add.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

So much pleasantness to the way you live.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And with the strange events detailed in John Dickson Carr's novel the Burning Court.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

And with the performance of Mr. Clifton.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Webb as its urbane narrator, Godin Cross.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Roma Wines hope indeed to keep you in suspense. A pleasant fire, charming company, and a hostess who realizes that tea served in the Russian manner is the only manner in which tea should ever be served. Yes, a heartwarming evening, Mr. Covington, in an extremely gracious setting. How fortunate that your uncle had the wealth to satisfy such an exquisite taste. And what a pity I have so little time to tell you which one here murdered him just last week. Now, I believe we're all here. Ted and Mary Covington, Mrs. Henderson, the housekeeper. Captain Mary Brennan, I believe.

[Captain Brennan]

Yes, and incidentally, yourself.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Just who did you say you were? No wonder you police have had so much difficulty with the case. My name is Cross. Godin Cross, the writer.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, well, why don't you say so? That book, A History of European Murder, that's yours.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Isn't it extraordinary? A policeman who reads. As a matter of fact, Captain, it's because of my latest book, Poisoning throughout the Ages, that I happen to be with you now. Ted Covington there is a member of the firm which publishes my work. I'd never seen him until tonight when he himself told me what happened. He went back to last Friday afternoon, for it was then that he began reading my manuscript for the first time. He began it on the train, the commuter's train, which every afternoon deposits him safely and soundly in this charming suburb of Crispin. That is, if you care for suburbs. At any rate, I imagine he was almost home by the time he finished the first chapter. Then he turned the page. Attached to the following leaf was a picture, and looking at it, the young man stiffened suddenly and all but cried out his shock. It was a picture of a woman. Under it was printed Marie Dubrovnich, convicted of arsenic poisoning. St. Petersburg, Russia, 1731. Ted Covington was looking at a picture of his own young wife. His 25 year old wife in an early 18th century costume. The face, the features were identical. Even the name. Dubronich is his wife. Or was his wife's maiden name. No, no, no. It was ridiculous. This woman in the picture was one of his wife's ancestors. Simply an amazing family resemblance. He wondered why Marie had never told him about Ted. Covington glanced down at the chapter to which the picture had been attached. It was entitled the Affair of the Non Dead Woman. But then the train was approaching the station, and he rose and walked out to the platform. Standing there for a moment, his eyes ran down the page. Marie Dubronits, it appeared, was quite a continental charmer in her day. With the beneficent assistance of arsenic, she had disposed of half a dozen husbands before she'd been caught. But caught she was. She was sentenced to death, the chapter concluded, and then beheaded and burned. And there, waiting for him at the curb by the suburban station was the wife he knew so well. She was leaning toward him now to open the door, smiling in that way he knew so well.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Ed, what on earth are you staring at?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

There's soft fire in your eyes. It's a street light, I guess.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, darling, you're silly and overworked. Come on, get in the car.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Thus, like a wind, thin wisp of smoke, it was gone. The uncertainty. Unspeakably foolish concept. Laughable. That's what it really was.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

All right, let's hear it. What's so funny?

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, nothing.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Nothing at all, darling. I guess I just feel good.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, fine mood for dancing tonight.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Dancing?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Now, Ted, you promised. You said if Uncle Miles showed a noticeable improvement, we could go to the club.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

You mean he's really better?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

There's no comparison. The doctor agreed with me. Darling, there's no reason in the world why we shouldn't let Mrs. Henderson stay awake for a change.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

None. Do her good. The old w.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What is the matter with you?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Oh, it's just that I. I started to call her a witch. It's a private joke, darling. A private joke. And by the time they were home was even less than that. Ted was sitting in the living room when Marie entered and moved toward the fireplace. He studied her as she struck the match on a hearthstone, touched it through the little rolls of newspaper, stood back to watch the licking flames catch the charcoal, then the logs. As the light rose, illuminating her face and the lips barely parted in that ineffably curious smile, he was reminded again of her fragile loveliness and his absurd reaction to the manuscript. He glanced around. There it was, on the table where he placed it when he'd come in. Deliberately. He turned from it and then back again. The manuscript had been moved only an inch or so, but moved. Keeping his back to his wife, he thumbed through that early chapter and discovered, just as he was afraid he would. But the picture itself was gone. For a long moment, he thought of what to do. Then slowly, he turned around. This.

[Dana Andrews]

This book of crosses I brought home.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes, dear.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

There was a story of a poisoner in it.

[Dana Andrews]

It's funny. Her name happens to be the same as yours. Your maiden name, that is.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Look, darling, was she a relative of yours?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Why, Ted, you're serious.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

In a way, yes.

[Dana Andrews]

I don't mean it's really important.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

It's just that. Well, when you run across a person who was a top flight poisoner a couple of hundred years ago and who's a dead ringer for your own wife.

[Dana Andrews]

You want to hear about it, that's all.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Ted, what on earth are you talking about?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Darling, be honest with me.

[Dana Andrews]

Didn't you look at this manuscript when.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

I was out of the room?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

You didn't take out a picture of a poisoner named Marie Dubronich?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I most certainly did not.

[Dana Andrews]

Somebody took that picture out of the manuscript.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

But who could it be? Mrs. Henderson has been in the back ever since we came in. And Uncle Miles? He's in bed in his room.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

I'm sorry, darling.

[Dana Andrews]

It'll turn up.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Forget it.

[Dana Andrews]

Maybe I am overworked.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

I guess a little dancing is just the thing I need tonight. When they returned home, it had happened. Mrs. Henderson met them at the door. Ted's uncle had taken a sudden turn for the worse.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Hurry as fast as you can.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

We'll be right. Marie, if you don't mind, I.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes, yes, Ted. Come, Mrs. Henderson. Let's go into the living room.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

He had wanted to be alone in the room. Not because of his great attachment to his uncle who, save for Ted himself, was the last of his branches of the Covingtons, but because he had seen something. It was the silver cup under the edge of the bed. The cup of the late patient had used for his medicine. Ted moved over to it, stood down. There were still a few drops at the bottom. Then, just as he was rising to his feet, his heart seemed to miss a beat. He had seen the other thing. Uncle Miles cat two feet away from the cup, further under the bed. She was lying on her side. Fearfully, he extended his hand. The cat was still warm, but quite dead. No one must know. Not yet. There would be a funeral, a normal official interment in the family crypt on the grounds. Meanwhile, the cat must be buried, disposed of. And the contents of the cup. The next day at the chemist's, he was told it contained arsenic.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

For suspense. Roma Wines are bringing you as star.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Mr. Clifton Webb, whom you have heard in the first act of the Burning.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Court by John Dixon Carr. Which is Roma Wines presentation tonight of suspense.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Between the acts of suspense. This is Truman Bradley for Roma Wines. We now quote a brief word from the renowned hostess Elsa Maxwell.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I've found that one of the smartest ways to entertain during warm weather is to serve tall, iced, thirst quenching Roma refreshers made with distinguished Roma California wine.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And it's so easy to enjoy frosty, satisfying Roma wine and soda. Simply half fill tall glasses with Roma, Burgundy or Sauterne. Add ice cubes and sparkling water and sugar if you wish for a decorative touch. Garnish with cherries and slices of fruit. And be sure to use Roma. For Roma wine is always uniformly good. The happy result of selected grapes carefully picked at the very peak of character in California's choicest vineyards, gently pressed, then guided unhurriedly to perfection for the ancient skill of Roma's famed wineries. Yet good as it is, Roma wine costs 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 wines.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And now, Roma wines bring back to.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Our Hollywood sound stage Clifton Webb as Go Down Cross, writer and authority on murder through the ages in the Burning Court, a play well calculated to keep you in suspense.

[Captain Brennan]

Now, let me understand one thing, Mr. Cross. You're simply relating what Mr. Covington here told you.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Yes, less than 15 minutes ago, captain.

[Captain Brennan]

Then why not have Mr. Covington tell it himself?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Primarily because I can tell it more beautifully, Mrs. Covington.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

More tea? I'll get it for him, madam.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

You're very kind, Mrs. Henderson, but I'd rather you didn't miss even one facet of this story. Well, I'm not leaving, sir.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

The samovar's right over here.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Excellent. I think that you should know that earlier tonight, just three days after his uncle's burial, Ted Covington sat alone in this room contemplating some astonishing plan. This very night, long after Marie would retire, he himself would open the vault and exhume his uncle's body. A chemist had been engaged for a private autopsy. He was to look for traces of poison. Yet Ted Covington wasn't so sure he could go through with such a plan. The door opened and Marie came into the room, walking now quite softly across to the great fireplace. He studied her closely as she struck the match, then touched it through the crumpled scraps of paper.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, I thought you might be a little chill.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Chill. If only she knew the chill that was wrapped around his heart. If only she. He stopped short in his thoughts. For now the glow had risen against that somewhat childlike face. And suddenly he saw for the first time the faint wrinkles of age at her eyes. Now the light was higher and there. There it was. The thin light crease like an almost invisible star that encircled about her ne Marie Dubronich, beheaded and burned in 1731. Yes, he was sure of it. Now he had to go through with his plan. So by the dim light of a lantern, he saw, pounding his way through the thick concrete that now covered the family tomb, drawing open the great subterranean door, descending to the ink black chamber below, he found the coffin, wrested it from its crypt and placed it upon the floor. He unclamped the lid, opened it, and then. Then the word of shock leapt from his throat. Empty. Empty.

[Captain Brennan]

Empty. Empty, you say, huh?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Who's that? Who said that?

[Captain Brennan]

I did. Mr. Covington, appear.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Who are you?

[Captain Brennan]

I'm Captain Brennan from the office of the Commission of Police.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Police? How did you. Who sent you here? Who told you about this?

[Captain Brennan]

Why, your housekeeper, of course. You didn't think Mrs. Henderson saw the.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Dead cat, did you? But she did.

[Captain Brennan]

She also saw you bury it. That, as you know, was three days ago. So I've had a chance to do some delving. I must admit, Mr. Covington, that when I learned your wife's maiden name was Dubronich, Marie Dubronich, I was really quite intrigued.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Why? What difference does that make? Perhaps you don't know it, but that's.

[Captain Brennan]

A rather important name in crime history.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

But the same name, that's all. It's a coincidence, Captain.

[Captain Brennan]

Yeah, isn't it? The case is full of them. Learned most of her poison tricks, for example, from a lover of long standing, a fellow by the name of Krasitov Godin. Krasitov Godin.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Cross, let's say.

[Captain Brennan]

Hasn't you affirmed published books by a.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Man by that name, Cross? Oh, this is some kind of a joke.

[Captain Brennan]

But what's Even more interesting, Mr. Covington, is the fact that the name of the judge who sentenced Marie Dubronich to death by the burning court just happened to be Covington.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Covington?

[Captain Brennan]

Thurman Covington. An ancestor, wouldn't you say, of the man who just died or was murdered. An ancestor of yours, I might add.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Oh, but you can't believe any of this. This nonsense about a longtime lover and a vengeance through the ages. What's. Captain. Captain. Captain Brennan?

[Vincent Price]

Yeah.

[Captain Brennan]

Down here, Freddy.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

No luck, sir. No answer at all. Place seems to be vacant.

[Captain Brennan]

The Covington house.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

What? Yes, sir.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Couldn't wake her soul.

[Dana Andrews]

Get out of my way.

[Captain Brennan]

Hey, Cappington, come back here.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Nothing's happened to my wife.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

You want me to stop him, Captain?

[Dana Andrews]

I'll let him go.

[Captain Brennan]

We'll Follow him.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Marie. Marie, where are you? It's me, Ted. Marie. What have you done? What? Good evening, Mr. Covington. Who are you? My name is Cross. Godin Cross. The writer Cross? My wife. What have you done to her? You fiend. What have you done to my wife? Stop it. Listen to me. Why are you here? Why am I here? Because your wife, reading my chapter on Marie Dubronich, realized I knew more about the family than even she did. Because she found my phone number on the front cover of the manuscript. And because I know an exceptional case when I hear one. Does that answer your question? No, you know it doesn't.

[Captain Brennan]

Can't you see?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

I've got to. I've got to know whether. I see whether your wife is really Marie Dubronits, who was burnt by order of the burning court. You're quite sure, no doubt, that I'm good and cross who first wooed her. No, my boy.

[Clifton Webb]

Marie Dubronich is no more your wife's.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Real name than mine is good and Cross. Your esteemed wife, Mr. Covington, was adopted by people named Dubronich, remote members of the real family of poisoners. I can't believe it. Why didn't she tell me? Because until I told her half an hour ago, she didn't know it herself. I'd learned it through my research. Oh, that's. That's too wonderful. For years, Mr. Covington, that young woman has been haunted by the fear that she might be a poisoner by blood. You can see, can't you, why she was willing to lie, steal a picture. Yes, do anything to hide her past from the man she wanted to hold. Yes. Yes, I can see that now, Mrs. Covington. You mean she.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes, Mr. Cross.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Oh, Marie, darling, you're all right. That'll be our old, old friends, the police. Will you take them into the front room, Mrs. Covington? Meanwhile, you, my friend, will tell me everything that's happened up to now. Having just delivered your wife from the burning court, I'll see if I can't save her from the electric chair. Sugar? Just pass it, please, Mr. Covington. There. Thank you. Ah, yes. Truly excellent tea. Don't you agree, Mrs. Henderson?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Oh, yes, yes, it's very nice. Yes, well, that, Captain Brennan, completes Ted Covington's personal account of the events leading up to the present. Let us now consider that supernatural hocus pocus of the body that walked out of the sealed in tomb. That body, let's agree, that never was in that tomb. Never in that tomb. No, Mr. Covington. It was disposed of long Before. But who could have done it?

[Dana Andrews]

Who could have kept that body out of The Tomb?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Who, Mr. Covington? Why, you, sir.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What are you saying?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

What are you driving at? I don't understand what you. It's very simple. You had to get rid of the body, Mr. Covington. You knew that eventually there was going to be an investigation. This. This is a joke, isn't it? A rather bad joke on your wife. From a few historical coincidences. You built a murderess in your own wife's image.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I won't listen to this anymore.

[Captain Brennan]

Why should you look cross? Why would Covington here spend an hour smashing into a crypt for a body he knew wasn't there?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Obviously, my dear Captain, to induce you to ask such a question, to impress you with his own innocence and his desperate concern for his wife's guilt.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

No, this isn't true. It can't be true.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Of course not, Cross. Just how, for example, could I have been in this house to poison my uncle? And also at the dance that night? Easily. You simply left the dance that night.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I left?

[Dana Andrews]

It was Marie who.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

I explained how I looked for her. So you did. And you didn't see her, Mr. Cullington, for the very good reason you weren't there. No, wait a minute. You were here, my friend, in this house, just as you had planned to. No. No. You. Who but you, the nephew could so naturally have handed his uncle a cup. A cup, presumably, of medicine. Don't listen to me. And who but you, of all those here, would have the strength to carry that body to the furnace, where it's now probably nothing but ashes. Lies. All lies. Why should I do such a thing? Why would I murder my own uncle? For the best reason that ever existed. A fortune.

[Vincent Price]

Laura, stop.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

You were the only heir. You'd get the estate, the money, the independence. Oh, please, Marie. Brendan, he's making this up. Now, now, now. It isn't as bad as all that. Why, the police can never touch you. After all. Where's the body? Where's the evidence? A truly delightful beverage. Yes, Mr. Covington. I'm sure you'll be quite comfortable in an asylum for the insane. And that is.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Mr. Cross. What is it?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Here, stand back.

[Captain Brennan]

Stand back. Let me get you.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Mr. Cross.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What's the matter? Captain?

[Captain Brennan]

This man's dead. Dead? And from poison, if I know anything. Poison? From that glass of tea.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Ted, you.

[Captain Brennan]

That glass was right beside you, Covington. And nobody else? Nobody else was here?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

No.

[Captain Brennan]

Too bad he didn't drink it as soon as you hoped.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I didn't do it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I.

[Captain Brennan]

Because a second ago, Covington, we had no evidence, no body to use against you. But we have now, Mr. Covington. We have now. I arrest you for the murder of Godan Cross.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Satan.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Godin.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

You're much too far away, my love, Gaudin. Much too far from the flame.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

So you've come back, dear Godin. Back within the hour.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Back for you, Mary. For with all the Covingtons disposed of now, the old score settled at last.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I know there's no need to tell any longer. You were brilliant as ever, Godin. Superb in building the case against him. Magnificent in the suicide. I never even saw you take the poise.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

And I thought I taught you all the tricks. Closer now. Much closer. Yes, closer to the flame, Mary.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes. Yes, Clodan.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Closer to me, my love.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

That night the Covington house burned to the ground. The body of Marie de Bronitch Covington was never recovered. And so closes the burning court in.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Which Roma Wines have brought you Clifton.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Webb as star of tonight's study in suspense. Suspense is produced, edited and directed by William Speer.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Before Mr. Webb returns to the microphone, let me say a word for Roma Wines. The sponsor of suspense, Elsa Maxwell, makes this timely suggestion for Father's Day next Sunday.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Show dad how much you really appreciate him by making next Sunday's dinner a festive occasion. Serve glorious golden amber Roma California Sherry as first call for dinner. Dad will enjoy the light nut like flavor of this distinguished Roma wine. Serve cool.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ms. Maxwell has made a grand suggestion. And why not further delight Father with a gift package of delicious Roma wine. Good Roma wines, always delightful, always uniformly delicious, are reasonably priced. And the next time you use vermouth, choose Roma Vermouth. Zestful, full flavored Roma Vermouth, blended and developed with all the traditional winemaking skill of Roma wineries is made and bottled in the heart of California's famous vineyards. Yet surprisingly low priced. Try Roma Vermouth soon, won't you?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

This is Clifton Webb. And now a serious word. This great Seventh War lone drive must be a success if our war against Japan is to be a success. Our fighting men are dependent upon you to put your job over. It's up to you to buy bigger bonds and more of them than ever before. So please do it now, ladies and gentlemen, next Thursday, same time, Ann Richards.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Will be your star of suspense.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Presented by Romo Wines R O M A made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Now Roma Wines R O M A made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. Roma Wines present Suspense.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Tonight, Roma Wines bring you Mr. Vincent Price as star of the Name of the Beast, a suspense place produced, edited and directed for Roma Wines by William Speer.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Suspense Radio's outstanding theater of thrills 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 and entertaining guests to your enjoyment of everyday meals. Yes, right now a glassful would be very pleasant as Roma Wines bring you Vincent Price in a remarkable tale of.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Suspense.

[Captain Brennan]

News and views in the world of art. Yesterday at the Deauville Galleries, a record breaking crowd attended one of the most sensational exhibitions of recent years. Masterpiece of the show is a portrait by James Dorrance titled the Name of the Beast. It's a savagely candid work, a face from which violence has shattered the last vestige of humanity. The tragic circumstances of the artist's death are too well known to review here. But at the same time, one cannot help speculating upon the essential mystery surrounding this remarkable canvas. What is the Name of the Beast?

[Vincent Price]

The name of the Beast was Krebs. Elmer Krebs. I found him in an evil waterfront dive, took him to my studio and made the first sketch for the portrait that night. I gave him money and he promised to return the next day. When he didn't show up, I went in search of him. He wasn't hard to trace. My search came to an end in a squalid room of a waterfront hotel.

[Dana Andrews]

Come in.

[Vincent Price]

He didn't look up when I entered the room, but continued to sit there on the sagging, dingy bedstead, holding his head in his hands and gently moaning. I crossed the room and raised the blind to let in the daylight. Then I saw it. Blood on his hands, on his shirt front, in his hair and beard. A horrible, sticky mess of blood. You didn't show up for our appointment today. I'm the painter you met last night, remember? You were going to sit for a portrait.

[Dana Andrews]

What do you want?

[Vincent Price]

You want your money back? Certainly not. I want to finish my painting. I want you to come back to the studio. You must be crazy. Look here. It's very important for me to finish that painting. I'll make it worth your while.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Money?

[Dana Andrews]

I don't need money. Not anymore.

[Vincent Price]

Maybe I can help you in some other way. You're in some kind of trouble, that's obvious.

[Dana Andrews]

What business is that of yours?

[Vincent Price]

You better wake up and pull yourself together. We'll have to get rid of those clothes some way or Other and I'll think of some way.

[Dana Andrews]

What happened? I told you, it's none of your business. Why don't you leave me alone? I'm sick.

[Narrator/Announcer]

All that blood.

[Vincent Price]

The first thing we must do is clean up this mess here. Now get those clothes off. And the shoes too. I'll make a parcel out of them and dump them in the river after dark. You better shave off that beard too. They'll be looking for a man with a beard, you know who will by the police, of course.

[Dana Andrews]

What makes you so sure of that?

[Vincent Price]

I know more about you than you think I do.

[Dana Andrews]

You're bluffing.

[Vincent Price]

Maybe, maybe not. But you're in no position to take chances. For all you know, I might be a witness. I might have seen you kill.

[Dana Andrews]

Shut up.

[Vincent Price]

Temper, temper.

[Dana Andrews]

I told you I'm sick. I'm liable to do anything.

[Vincent Price]

It wouldn't be smart for you to do anything to me, Elmer. I'm your only hope. You know that, don't you? You lost your head. You were clumsy. To get away with murder you need a clear head. Look at the mistakes you've made already. Blood all over you, as good as a rope around your neck. Where did you hide the loot?

[Dana Andrews]

That's what you're after.

[Vincent Price]

Then it was robbery. Somewhere close by too. Couldn't have gone far with all that blood on you without attracting attention. Well, it was in a shop. I imagine that means they probably won't find the body till Monday morning.

[Dana Andrews]

Third degree. You're with the police.

[Vincent Price]

On the contrary, Elmer. I'm going to save you from the police. I told you I want to finish painting. That portrait of you don't make sense.

[Dana Andrews]

All it's just to paint some crazy picture.

[Vincent Price]

Ah, but what a picture. Elmer, I've waited 20 years to paint this picture. Everything I've ever painted has been merely the preparation for this. I've worked alone, never exhibited a single canvas. Do you know what it is to work alone? Yeah, I know. Nobody knows your name. But one day, quite suddenly, a masterpiece explodes in the face of a jaded world. Like your murder, Elmer. After a life of petty crime, at last an act of yours really means something. Newspapers will headline it. The whole world will be clamoring to know your name. Exciting, isn't it?

[Dana Andrews]

Exciting?

[Vincent Price]

Well, that's the way I feel about this portrait. I must finish the job just.

[Dana Andrews]

Oh, I know you won't. Take those clothes to the cops instead of dumping them.

[Vincent Price]

I'm taking a terrible chance walking out of here with a bundle of blood stained clothes. As it is, they'd fit me about as well as they fit you.

[Dana Andrews]

Okay, that's fair enough.

[Vincent Price]

By the way, where. Where did it happen?

[Dana Andrews]

A hock shop, number 23, next to the alley.

[Vincent Price]

Was it necessary?

[Dana Andrews]

Old man came in, started firing a revolver right off.

[Captain Brennan]

I don't pack no rod. There's nothing else to do.

[Dana Andrews]

I grabbed the fire axe off the wall. Oh, my.

[Vincent Price]

And I suppose the police have your fingerprints on file.

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah, I've done time once.

[Vincent Price]

What did you do with the axe?

[Dana Andrews]

Just dropped it there. I was sick. All that blood.

[Vincent Price]

I suppose you left nice red fingerprints all over the place.

[Dana Andrews]

I didn't touch nothing.

[Captain Brennan]

Maybe the windowsill going out.

[Vincent Price]

That's the first place they'll look. And you're obviously in no condition to go back.

[Dana Andrews]

What are you trying to do, Buy yourself a nice murder wrap?

[Vincent Price]

My dear fellow, any intelligent man can get away with murder if he keeps his wits about him. You ought to be very grateful to me, Elmer. I'm going to take your clumsy crime and make it into a work of art.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

For suspense. Roma Wines are bringing you as star Vincent Price. In the Name of the Beast by Robert Tallman. Roma Wines presentation tonight in radio's outstanding theater of thrills, Suspense.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Between the acts of suspense. This is Truman Bradley for Roma Wines. Yesterday, a happily married friend told me one of his favorite formulas for enjoying life. He said he never eats dinner while still burdened with the pressures of a busy day. Instead, he sits down for a few minutes, takes it easy, chats with his wife and enjoys with her a glass or two of Roma California Sherry. The perfect first call to dinner. Yes, Roma Sherry before dinner is a pleasant custom millions now share with family and friends. For Roma Sherry is a glorious golden amber wine. Soft and mellow on the tongue, so inviting with its pleasing nut like taste. Roma Sherry makes mealtime more welcome, helps you anticipate the good food to come. And when friends drop in, there's no more gracious greeting than a glass of Roma Sherry. Tomorrow night before dinner, share Roma Sherry with your family. It costs no more to serve Roma, America's favorite wine. So insist on Roma R O M A Roma Wines. Remember, more Americans enjoy Roma than any other wine.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And now, Roma Wines bring back to our Hollywood soundstage. Vincent Price as James Dorrance with Elliot Lewis as Krebs. In the Name of the Beast. A tale well calculated. To keep you in suspense.

[Vincent Price]

The shoes of the Beast were just my size. I wore them when I went on my errand that night. It was fortunate I did. Getting into the place was simple. It was an old fashioned lock. And the skeleton key to my studio fitted it perfectly. The shop bell jangled when I opened the door. I made my way quickly along the dark rows of counters to the rear of the shop. A pair of dusty portieres provided it from the back room. I pulled them to behind me and snapped on my flashlight. The body, or what was left of it, lay in a heap in the center of the room. The floor. Well, it was lucky I hadn't worn my own shoes. There would be tracks out of that place. Red tracks. The axe lay near the old man's head. I picked up the axe and carried it over to the sink. I washed off what I could and smeared out the prints with the cotton gloves on my hands. Then I made a quick circuit of the room, taking in every surface with the wet gloves. I smeared the prints on the safe handle, the windowsill and the jimmy the murderer had so stupidly left behind him. Then I dropped the cotton gloves on the floor and left them there. No way to trace a pair of cheap cotton gloves. Now there was only one last thing to do. Walk around the block to dry the soles of those shoes and burn them in the street. When I got back to my studio, the handiwork of the beast would remain, but the name of the beast had been expunged. But I didn't burn the shoes. Nor did I throw that bundle of clothing into the river as I had first planned to do that night. No, no. This would be an authentic, authentic portrait of a murderer in the very blood stained garments of his crime. That will be all for today, Elmer.

[Dana Andrews]

How much longer does this go on?

[Vincent Price]

Until the painting is finished. You can't set a time limit on the completion of a masterpiece, you know.

[Dana Andrews]

Don't look much like me.

[Vincent Price]

You've forgotten I made the first sketch before you shaved off your beard.

[Dana Andrews]

I don't like this picture. Did you have to paint in all that blood?

[Vincent Price]

My dear fellow, no one in the world would ever recognize you as the man with the beard in this picture. I don't like this picture.

[Dana Andrews]

I don't like staying here. Luck.

[Captain Brennan]

What about that stuff? When can I start cashing in on it?

[Vincent Price]

I should have thought I was paying you enough to live on.

[Dana Andrews]

Suppose I want to get married?

[Vincent Price]

Well, the.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

What?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, good Lord, man. You mustn't even consider it. In the first place, I can't afford to support another person.

[Dana Andrews]

I was asking you to support anybody.

[Captain Brennan]

I got that stuff, haven't I?

[Dana Andrews]

Well, I'm gonna cash it in, that's all.

[Vincent Price]

Listen, to me. Elmer, if you try to unload as much as one piece of that loot, the police will be on your tail so fast. Oh, no, my friend. That stuff has got to stay where it is for some time to come.

[Dana Andrews]

You just say that so I'll have.

[Vincent Price]

To depend on you.

[Dana Andrews]

So you can paint that lousy picture.

[Vincent Price]

Maybe. Oh, by the way, Elmer, I've never said anything about it before. But you never told me exactly what you did do with the loot.

[Dana Andrews]

The suitcase, I told you.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, I know. In the locker at Grand Central. But where's the ticket?

[Dana Andrews]

That's one secret I'm keeping.

[Vincent Price]

Well, all right. But you will promise me not to unload those jewels? Not for a while.

[Captain Brennan]

She keeps asking me, when are we.

[Dana Andrews]

Going to get married? What am I going to tell her?

[Vincent Price]

Oh, by the way, who is the lucky lady?

[Dana Andrews]

Jeannie. Her name's Jeannie Baker. Hey, wait a minute, though.

[Captain Brennan]

She don't know anything about me.

[Dana Andrews]

Not anything. If I ever catch you talking to her, so help me, I'll kill you.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You say you're a friend of Elmer's?

[Vincent Price]

Well, not a friend exactly. I'm afraid this will be rather a shock to you. You're very close to Mr. Krebs.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

We're engaged to be married. What is it? Is he in some kind of trouble? Are you a detective?

[Vincent Price]

Well, not exactly. You see, I represent the insurance company.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What insurance company?

[Vincent Price]

State Indemnity. Our policyholder doesn't want to prosecute, but at the same time prosecute. Well, after all, the jewels were of considerable value.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What jewels?

[Vincent Price]

Why, the jewels in the suitcase in the locker at Grand Central. He did leave the ticket with you, didn't he?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Well, yes, but. But, I mean, he didn't tell me that. Well, he did say it was valuable and he didn't want to risk losing the ticket. But how did you know about it?

[Vincent Price]

My dear Ms. Baker, we insurance investigators have ways of finding out these things. Now then, if you're a sensible young woman, and I can see that you're not only a sensible young woman, but a very beautiful one as well.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Mr. Dorrance. What has he done?

[Vincent Price]

Well, I don't think he regarded it as a theft, exactly. More of a loan, in all probability. After all, his aunt was a very old lady.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You mean he stole this jewelry from his aunt?

[Vincent Price]

Well, I wanted to spare you those exact words if I could. Actually, the lady would prefer not to prosecute. But of course, if we can secure the return of the property in no.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Other way, I suppose I'd be arrested too. As an accessory or something.

[Vincent Price]

I must say, it was rather thoughtless of him to have involved you in this manner.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

How do I know you're what you say you are?

[Vincent Price]

I have credentials, of course, but I would rather take care of this unofficially. Especially since this little talk with you. You're much too fine a person to be involved in a sordid affair like this.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I don't even know that suitcase has any jewels in it.

[Vincent Price]

Then supposing we go there together and get it, Genie. Well, now, let's have a look.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

How are we going to.

[Vincent Price]

Well, I. I think I have a key here that'll open it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Those must be worth a fortune.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, they are. Ms. Baker, you understand our concern?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes. Close it up. I. I don't want to look at it anymore.

[Vincent Price]

I'd like to have spared you this. You understand, of course, that I wouldn't dream of prosecuting. Not now that I've met you.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I don't know how to thank you, Mr. Dorrance. This. This is such a shock to me. How could he? How could he?

[Vincent Price]

There, there. You're not the first innocent girl to be deceived by an unscrupulous fellow like that. How did you happen to become involved with him in the first place?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I was lonely. I have no friends here. And he came into the cafe where I wait.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Tickets.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, there, there, now.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You won't let anything happen to me, I promise you.

[Vincent Price]

I'll do anything to keep you from knowing another moment's unhappy. That night, I worked feverishly like a man possessed. But as I worked, an uncanny change came over the man in the portrait. There was something about it, something that terrified and at the same time fascinated me. Yet the more I tried to make it come right, the less it really looked. Like Krebs. I began to regret I had had him shave his beard. In spite of the risk involved. Being clean shaven altered a man's appearance more than I thought. But that wasn't the real difficulty. The real trouble was Jeannie Baker. How could she ever have loved a beast like Krebs? A girl so gentle, so lovely. I tried not to think of her. But the image of Jeannie stood between me and the canvas and the painting just would not come right. And as Krebs sat there suddenly posing for me, his eyes were began to grow more and more cunning and suspicious, as though he could actually read my thoughts. He would jump up every time I laid down my brush and circle the portrait like an infuriated animal. Until finally, around four in the morning, he dropped off to snoring. I let him stay there. In the dawn light, I looked at the picture for the last time and draped the easel to shut it out of my sight. My masterpiece, for which I had become accessory after the fact of one murder and sowed the seeds of a second was, I knew it now, deep in my heart, a failure. I was obsessed now with only one resolve. To prevent the second murder, which by some instinct I knew was in Krebs mind at whatever cost to myself. No harm must come to Jeannie.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Mr. Dorrance, I've been told that artists are full of romantic notions and the Bureau has dealt with a number of them in this neighborhood, as you can well imagine. But I must say that of all the pipe dreams that have been brought to me, yours is the most fantastic.

[Vincent Price]

So? But listen, inspector, you've got to believe me. That girl's life is in danger.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

We're checking on that now. Let's check on a few other things. Mr. Dorrance, you say that on the night of the 12th, you met this man Krebs at a place called Louis?

[Vincent Price]

Yes, sir.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

And afterwards you went with him to your studio and made a sketch of him for a portrait. All right. So far, so good. He promised to return the following day and sit again for the painting. He failed to show up, so you sought him out at his hotel. Now the story really becomes incredible. He tells you he's committed a ghastly murder. He's covered in blood. You offer to help him get away with the murder in order to finish the portrait. Oh, now, really, Mr. Dorrance. You painters need publicity as bad as all that.

[Vincent Price]

But, Inspector, I tell you, I have all the evidence.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Where?

[Vincent Price]

At my studio.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Where's this man Krebs? Except for the portrait you say you painted of him, I can't find a shred of evidence that he exists. Just a minute. Here, sergeant. They've picked up the girl. Good. Send her in.

[Vincent Price]

She'll tell you. She'll tell you who Krebs is.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Oh, come in, Ms. Baker. We won't detain you long. Ms. Baker, do you know this man? I say, do you know this man?

[Vincent Price]

It's all right, my dear. Speak up.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes, his name is Elmer Krebs.

[Vincent Price]

A few minutes later, they let me go, dismissing me as a harmless cross crackpot. Jeannie walked out of the station with me clinging to my arm with solicitude as one might act towards a beloved and mentally ill relative. Why did you do it?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Elmer came to my apartment last night. He told me the whole story. He was boasting. Boasting about how he's pinned the crime on you. Don't you see? Everything you've done to save him has incriminated you. The blood stained clothes, even the loot.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, I'm. I don't know.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Listen to me. He'll always be a threat to us, to our happiness. He's safe. The police don't even know he exists. They don't even know what he looks like.

[Vincent Price]

They steal the portrait. It's not a masterpiece, but they can identify him from it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I see. Darling, you didn't mind my rechristening you.

[Vincent Price]

You once loved a man named Krebs.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

And I still love a man named Krebs.

[Vincent Price]

And it's all right. For that, I'd do anything.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Put this in your overcoat pocket. It'll keep you safe, darling.

[Vincent Price]

What? Oh, no, no, I.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

It'll keep you safe, darling.

[Vincent Price]

He was there in my studio when I got in that evening. Waiting for me. I had more or less expected it. I hadn't expected to find him in such a cheerful frame of mind. He had pulled the drape off of the. The painting and was walking around it, viewing it from every angle. Hi, Dorrance. How did you get in here?

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Through the door.

[Dana Andrews]

No more window jobs for me, Dorrance. And a picture.

[Captain Brennan]

How about that?

[Dana Andrews]

Got a new model, huh?

[Vincent Price]

What? The picture. Oh, it's no good. By the way, it's finished now. You won't need to come here anymore. You say I'll get you the suitcase. I suppose it'll be safe for you to cash that stuff.

[Dana Andrews]

Already found the suitcase, Dor.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, well, take it along with you then.

[Dana Andrews]

Over there on the table.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I opened it up.

[Vincent Price]

Well, did you think I'd take it.

[Dana Andrews]

Without checking on the contents?

[Vincent Price]

What are you talking about?

[Dana Andrews]

What'd you do with the rocks, Darren?

[Vincent Price]

Rocks?

[Captain Brennan]

You took the rocks, the jewelry.

[Dana Andrews]

There's nothing left there but the settings.

[Captain Brennan]

A pile of junk.

[Vincent Price]

Listen, Krebs, I swear I never opened that suitcase but once. Just after we took it out of the locker.

[Captain Brennan]

She's in it with you.

[Vincent Price]

Listen, Krebs, you can think whatever you want to about me, but keep Genie out of it.

[Captain Brennan]

Keep Genie out of it.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

That's.

[Vincent Price]

I mean what I say. Krebs. Where are you going?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, her place.

[Dana Andrews]

If she has those rocks, I'm gonna.

[Vincent Price]

Krebs. Come back here. Krebs. If you go out of that door, I warn you. All right. I dragged his body inside the door and left it there. Then I dropped the revolver. Jeannie had Given me back in my overcoat pocket and left my studio for the last time. As I closed the door on the room, it seemed that the face in the portrait was grinning at me in hideous mockery. I had meant to go straight to the police and give myself up. But I must have known in my heart that I wouldn't. Instead, I walked. And my feet took me, almost against my will to the house on Grove Street. The house where Jeannie lived. I had roused her from sleep, and she seemed rather cross.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What's the big idea barging in here this time of night?

[Vincent Price]

I had to see you, Jeannie. Well, that was an unlucky name you gave me.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Jeannie, what's happened?

[Vincent Price]

I shot him. You gave me a murderer's name, and now I am a murderer.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

So you really did it. I wondered if you'd have the guts, Genie. Oh, what do you want me to do? Put on black and cry myself to death?

[Vincent Price]

You loved him once.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Who said so?

[Vincent Price]

You were going to marry him.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Maybe I thought he was smart. Once I said I'd marry him if he pulled a really big job. I might have kept my word, but he bungled it. What's worse, he involved me. When I found out he planted that stuff on me.

[Vincent Price]

You knew. You knew all the time.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

So what? So what? You'll get your cut.

[Vincent Price]

Oh, Krebs was right. You did take those stones. And I killed a man for you. To save you.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

What did you do with the gun?

[Vincent Price]

It's in my overcoat pocket. I was going to the police.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, you SAP. Why didn't you leave the gun there, make it look like suicide?

[Vincent Price]

It was in a way, wasn't it? Jeannie, I'm Krebs now. Dorrance is dead. You planned it very nicely.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, stop. Stop trying to be deep. Doesn't matter what your name is. Either way, you've messed it up. Anybody have a key to your place? No, and we still have time.

[Vincent Price]

Time for what?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

The body. Any intelligent person can get away with murder if he keeps his wits about him. You told Elmer that.

[Vincent Price]

Yes, I told Elmer that.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You're scared to go back there, aren't you? Do you want me to do it for you?

[Vincent Price]

No, no, I'll do it. I must do it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Here. Mustn't forget your overcoat.

[Vincent Price]

No, no, I mustn't forget my overcoat. It'll keep me. It'll keep me safe. Goodbye, Genie.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Two stiffs.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Hmm.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

What a shambles. Looks as if he'd shot this guy and then bumped himself off. Who are they? I Don't know the other one. This is a guy that came into headquarters Saturday. You know the artist, huh? Well, there must have been something to his story after all. Here's a note he left. You see, dear Inspector, the portrait I told you about is standing on the easel facing the window so you can see it in the light. James Dorrance. I guess this must be it here. He said it identified the murderer. Is it a good likeness? Gee, I don't know. You look at it. Why say it's a woman. Yeah, it's that dame we picked up. The little waitress. Hey, but look, it's. It's got men's clothes on, bloody. And the way he's made the face all twisted and ugly.

[Captain Brennan]

She was a good looking kid.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Yeah, she was. He must have been cracked. I guess he must have been. A thing like that makes you wonder, don't it? Yeah, A thing like that makes you wonder.

[Captain Brennan]

The discerning art lover will recognize Doran's painting as more than a mere portrait. It's the human soul stripped naked and its dark and deep and secret places shown in all their morbid, brooding fascination. But still, one cannot help wondering, what is the name of the beast? Did the woman in the portrait exist? Or was she only the creature of the artist's fevered imagination? Our only clue is in a quotation which the artist caused to be printed in the exhibition catalog.

[Vincent Price]

And he causeth all to receive a mark in their right hand or in their foreheads, and that no man might buy or sell save that he had the mark or the name of the beast or the number of his his name. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast, for it is the number of man.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Suspense presented by Roma Wines R O M A made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. Before we hear again from Vincent Price, the star of the Name of the Beast. Tonight's suspense play. This is Truman Bradley for Roma Wines with a tip for you men. Every wife loves surprises. Little unexpected deeds that reflect thoughtfulness. So tomorrow night, boost your stock with her. Solve her problem of how to brighten weekend dining. Add to your own mealtime pleasure, too. Take home a bottle of delicious Roma California Burgundy. One sip will convince you both that red, robust Roma Burgundy is the perfect tablemate for stews, spaghetti or baked beans. While Roma Burgundy brings out hidden flavors, adds rare goodness to every morsel. Yes, gentlemen, Roma Burgundy can make a hero of you on two counts. For being thoughtful and for solving a mealtime problem. And Roma Wine, America's first choice, costs no more than ordinary wines. Remember, for greater dining pleasure tomorrow, take home Roma Burgundy. Insist on Roma R O M A Roma wine made in California for enjoyment throughout the world.

[Vincent Price]

This is Vincent Price. Next Thursday, our friend Keenan Wynn will be your star on suspense. In what sounds like a very exciting play. Which all takes place on a bus. A bus making a return trip from the state insane asylum. I know you won't want to miss it. Next Thursday. And now let me add my voice on behalf of a very great and wonderful cause. The pennies, the dimes and the dollars that you give when you buy Easter Seals. Give crippled children their chance for happy living. Help a crippled child to walk again. Buy your share of Easter Seals tomorrow. Thank you.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Vincent Price appeared through courtesy of 20th Century Fox. And will soon be seen in their production Dragonwick. Next Thursday, same time, Roma wines will bring you Keenan Wynn as star of suspense radio's outstanding theater of thrills.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Produced by William Speer for the Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Lady Esther presents the Screen Guild Players. The Lady Esther Screen Guild play tonight, Laura. The starring players.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

This is Gene Tierney.

[Dana Andrews]

This is Dana Andrews.

[Clifton Webb]

This is Clifton Webb.

[Dana Andrews]

And this is David Br.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Tonight, Lady Esther presents the Screen Guild Players.

[Dana Andrews]

In a gripping murder mystery.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The 20th Century Fox picture Laura by Vera Casper. It stars Dana Andrews as Mark, Jean Tierney as Laura. David Bruce as Carpenter. And Clifton Webb as Lydecker. The Lady Esther. Screen Guild Players in Lola.

[Dana Andrews]

Me, I'm a cop. Murder is murder, and a dame's a dame. Personally, I never got mixed up with either. Till I was put on the case of Laura Hunt. It was pretty much routine to start. I picked out the people who had known her best. And this Waldo Lydecker topped the list. Quite a guy, Waldo. Big shot columnist and radio spieler. The kind who dressed formal to have his nails trimmed. The kind who built styles and ruined reputations. And a guy I never liked. He got a big kick out of doing things different. The first time I saw him, he was in his bath.

[Clifton Webb]

If you don't mind, Lieutenant.

[Dana Andrews]

Not at all.

[Clifton Webb]

The world is rather soiling, I find. I believe one should wash it off fairly frequently. There's a chair there.

[Dana Andrews]

Thanks. Nice little place you've got.

[Clifton Webb]

It's lavish, but I call it home. I suppose you're here about the Laura Hunt murder.

[Dana Andrews]

That's a fair guess.

[Clifton Webb]

I have my notes here. Perhaps you'd like me to read them. Perhaps I'm overwhelmed by your enthusiasm.

[Dana Andrews]

Go ahead.

[Clifton Webb]

Very well. Laura was found yesterday Saturday morning.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Dead.

[Clifton Webb]

A Shotgun charge fired at point blank range.

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah. Shot most of her face away.

[Clifton Webb]

Must you be so disgustingly realistic? I was questioned by the police and I stated, quote. On Friday night Laura had a dinner engagement with me after which she was ostensibly going out of town. She phoned and canceled our engagement at exactly 7:00'.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Clock.

[Dana Andrews]

Why'd you write it down? Afraid you'd forget.

[Clifton Webb]

I am the most widely misquoted man in America and I resent it. Hand me that washcloth, please. Thank you. As you probably know from reading my column, murder is a hobby of mine. I dare say you consider this one a little different.

[Dana Andrews]

Sure, it's duller.

[Clifton Webb]

I suppose you prefer the conventional gang killing with machine guns and black sedans and all the trimming.

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah. At least there you're dealing with real down to earth people.

[Clifton Webb]

Lieutenant, I believe you're a proletarian snob. Here you have one of the most unusual cases.

[Dana Andrews]

The only unusual thing is the addresses Sutton Place and Park Avenue instead of fat bush of the Bowery. Outside of that, some two timing dame gets murdered in her flat practically every day.

[Joe (Police Officer)]

Dame?

[Clifton Webb]

How dare you call Laura a dame.

[Dana Andrews]

What would you call her?

[Clifton Webb]

She was a woman of distinction, a character, a lady. I'll have my towel, please.

[Dana Andrews]

Mr. Lydecker, were you in love with Laura Hunt? Was she in love with you?

[Clifton Webb]

Laura considered me the wisest, the wittiest, the most interesting man she'd ever met. I was in compete accord with her in that she thought me also the kindest, the gentlest, the most sympathetic man in the world. I tried to be all that too.

[Dana Andrews]

Have any luck?

[Clifton Webb]

Let me put it this way. I should be sincerely sorry to see my neighbor's children devoured by wolves. My robe, please.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Thank you.

[Clifton Webb]

Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to dress.

[Dana Andrews]

I think we'll talk first.

[Clifton Webb]

Talk?

[Dana Andrews]

About what? About Laura. She's dead, you know. Somebody killed her.

[Clifton Webb]

That's neither new nor frightening anymore.

[Captain Brennan]

Although.

[Dana Andrews]

Although what? Got any ideas?

[Clifton Webb]

It's possible, but I'd have to tell the whole story from the very beginning. The very first time I ever saw Laura.

[Dana Andrews]

Go on.

[Clifton Webb]

It was five years ago at the Hotel Algonquin. I was having lunch alone, of course. And suddenly she stood before me, eager and excited.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Mr. Lydia. Well, how do you do? My name is Laura Hunt and I'm with Bullet and Company. You know, the big advertising firm. And I'd like to talk something over with you, if I may.

[Clifton Webb]

I scarcely need explain that I'm engaged in eating my lunch.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Yes, I know, but so hard to get to see you the regular way. And this will only take a minute.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Really.

[Clifton Webb]

Apparently, you suffer from the common feminine delusion. The mere fact of being a woman exempts you from all the rules of sexual, civilized conduct.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

That's possible? If it is what I want to show you. It's for the Wallace Flow Wright pen. My company will pay you $5,000 if you'll just endorse this ad.

[Clifton Webb]

I don't use a pen. I write with a goose quill dipped in venom.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

But this is a very fine pen, Mr. Lydecker. Won't you at least consider endorsing it?

[Clifton Webb]

I'll neither consider, endorse nor use the Wallace fluorite pen. And if you wish me to publish that statement in my column.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Oh, no, you mustn't. The company doesn't know anything about this. It was my idea to see you.

[Clifton Webb]

Oh? Indeed?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Yes.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Honestly. I know they'd give anything to get your endorsement. And I thought, well, what's the harm in trying? Mr. Lydecker, it would mean so much to me.

[Clifton Webb]

Young woman, you seem to be completely disregarding something more important than your career.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

What?

[Clifton Webb]

My lunch.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

You know, it's strange.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

You write about people with such real understanding and sentiment.

[Clifton Webb]

Sentiment comes easy at 50 cents a word.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

If that's how you feel, you must be very lonely.

[Clifton Webb]

Will you kindly continue your character analysis elsewhere? You begin to bore me, you poor man.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I'm sorry for you. Good afternoon.

[Clifton Webb]

I was a bit annoyed by the incident. But the girl did have spirit, Lieutenant, and she was very pretty. So that afternoon I went to her office, apologized after fashion. And offered to endorse her pen. That endorsement started her career through me. She met everyone. The famous and the infamous, and she captivated them all. But Tuesday and Friday nights, we stayed at home, dined quietly, listened to my records. Those were the best nights. Until one Tuesday she phoned and said. Waldo, I'm. I'm sorry about tonight. I'm afraid I can't come.

[Dana Andrews]

Another date? Know who it was?

[Clifton Webb]

I made it my business to find out. Jacoby, the author.

[Dana Andrews]

He'd recently done her portrait, and she'd fallen for him.

[Clifton Webb]

That's a very vulgar expression. I wrote a column about him. One day I exposed him, ridiculed him, demolished him. All in my most amusing vein, of course.

[Dana Andrews]

Of course. And that finished him with her.

[Clifton Webb]

Yes. There were others at times that Laura's own discrimination ruled them out, until Shelby Carpenter.

[Dana Andrews]

Carpenter? That's right. He's on my list. Laura was going to marry him, wasn't she? Well, wasn't she? Perhaps. What does that mean?

[Clifton Webb]

Maybe you better ask Carpenter.

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah, maybe I'd better. Yeah, maybe I will. Believe me, Lieutenant McPherson, I'm as eager to find the murderer as you are. Laura and I were going to be married this week, you know. Yeah, so I hear. You know, it's funny, though. She should want to run out of town on Friday. Right before her wedding and all. Out of town? Well, she told me she was having dinner with Waldo Lydecker. Then why should she lie? Lie twice to you and to him? She didn't have dinner with Lydecker, and obviously she didn't go away. Carpenter. You told the police you went to a concert Friday night. That's right. Hello. What did they play? Brahms first and Beethoven's Ninth. Yeah, it was on the program, all right. Only they changed it at the last minute, playing nothing but Sebelius. How about it, Carpenter? Well, I. I suppose I should have told him the truth. I'd been working pretty hard. I was very tired. I didn't hear a note of the concert. I fell asleep. I imagine that seems strange to you. Well, I fall asleep at concerts myself. Carpenter, were you in love with Laura Hunt? Of course I was. Head over heels. She was the most wonderful girl I'd ever known. The most wonderful person. She gave me a chance at a decent job when no one else would. When everyone thought I was just a. Well, I know, I know. A male butterfly. Working there in the office with her. Being so close to her, I couldn't help but fall in love. And she loved me, too. We were going to be married, no matter what Waldo Lydecker said. He had nothing to say about it. He had no claims to her. No, but he wouldn't want to lose her, would he? Well, would he? Why don't you ask him? Yeah, why don't I? You know, I'm beginning to feel like a ping pong ball.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Lieutenant.

[Clifton Webb]

There's no need for me to deny what I thought. But I still think about Shelby Carpenter. Last Tuesday night, I thought it was time for me to act. Laura had come to my place for dinner the first time in weeks. And when I told her a few homely truths about the chap.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Waldo, by stooping so low, you only degrade yourself.

[Clifton Webb]

Laura, I. I've simply told you the facts.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

What of it? I know his faults. A man can change.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Can he?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

His past is his own affair. I only care about the present.

[Clifton Webb]

Speaking of the change Mr. Carpenter in the present tense, he's now running around with a model from your own office. Her name Is Diane Redfern.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Walter, I'm closer to despising you than I thought I'd ever be if I thought.

[Clifton Webb]

Don't think.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Just look.

[Clifton Webb]

I believe you presented him with a cigarette case on his last birthday. A gold case. Rather valuable. Is this it?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Where did you get that?

[Clifton Webb]

From the pawn shop where Diane Redfern took it after he gave it to us.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I don't believe it. He may have needed some money and was too proud to borrow.

[Clifton Webb]

Shelby proud. Perhaps that's why the pawn ticket was in her name.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Waldo, I. I don't know what to say.

[Clifton Webb]

Don't say anything, my dear.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Not now.

[Clifton Webb]

I'll expect you for dinner on Friday night.

[Dana Andrews]

That was her story right up to Friday night. When she phoned him and said she was going up to the country to think the whole thing up by herself. I couldn't do much more with Lydega then. So I legged it over to Laura's place to have myself a look around. That was the first time I saw the portrait. The one Jacob he had painted. It was up on the wall. I stood there looking at it, thinking a lot of things, I guess. And then suddenly she was pretty.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Wasn't she also pretty, huh? And not only pretty, but good. The kindest person I ever met.

[Dana Andrews]

Who are you?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I'm Bessie.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I'm the maid. I come in every day.

[Dana Andrews]

You still come?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I thought I had to clean up.

[Dana Andrews]

All right, but don't touch anything in here. I want it left just the way it was. And then I was standing there alone again in front of Laura's picture. But after a while, I snapped out of it. Told myself I'd have to get to work. So I started on a desk. Letters, date pads, check stubs, even a diary. I was getting to know it pretty well. I don't know how many hours it was. I guess I must have walked a few miles up and down that room. And when I lighted again in front of the picture.

[Clifton Webb]

Intriguing, isn't it? Jacoby caught her in a very rare mood.

[Dana Andrews]

What are you doing here, Lydecker?

[Clifton Webb]

I saw the light on, and the door was open.

[Dana Andrews]

What's on your mind?

[Clifton Webb]

I thought I might arrange for the return of my things.

[Dana Andrews]

What things? Mmm.

[Clifton Webb]

That Chinese vase, that grandfather clock by the door. I only lent them to Laura, you know. I I intend to have them back.

[Dana Andrews]

Everything stays right where it is.

[Clifton Webb]

As you wish. Oh, I see you've been going through Laura's desk.

[Dana Andrews]

Any objection?

[Clifton Webb]

Only one. I object to your prying to Laura's letters, especially those from me.

[Dana Andrews]

Why Yours are the best in a bunch.

[Vincent Price]

Thanks.

[Clifton Webb]

But I didn't write them to you. Haven't you any sense of privacy?

[Dana Andrews]

Not when a dame's been murdered, I haven't.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

That word again.

[Clifton Webb]

McPherson, did you ever know a woman who wasn't a dame?

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah, one. But she kept walking me past furniture store to look at the parlor suits.

[Clifton Webb]

She wasn't good enough, was she? She wasn't like Laura. You know, when I came in, the way you were staring at her portrait.

[Dana Andrews]

Shut up, McPherson.

[Clifton Webb]

You're acting very strangely. Like a suitor who comes here with roses and candy. Drugstore candy, of course.

[Dana Andrews]

Get going. I'm busy.

[Clifton Webb]

You better watch yourself, Nick person, or you'll end up in the psychiatric ward. I don't think they've ever had a patient who fell in love with a.

[Vincent Price]

Shut up.

[Dana Andrews]

Now get out. When he got and I was alone again, I sat there waiting. Waiting for what? I don't know. The room, the night, the silence were alive with her. And her ghost wouldn't let me go. I guess it must have been after 10 when I heard the door and steps.

[Vincent Price]

And then.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Who are you?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Who are you?

[Dana Andrews]

What are you doing here?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I don't know. Who has a better right to be here.

[Dana Andrews]

Then say it. Go on, say it.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I live here.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

It's my apartment. I'm Laura Hunt.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The second act of the Lady Esther Screen Guild play will follow in just a moment. Now a word from Lady Esther.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

A woman walked into a famous New York restaurant a few evenings ago. Accompanied by three attentive young. There was a sudden hush as she entered the room. All eyes turned in her direction. She made such a beautiful picture as she walked in. Against the background of her very simple black suit. Her face had a fresh, radiant look. And I saw at once it was her skin that made her look so compelling. Now, I knew that woman. And I knew she was over 35, though she looked like 25. I knew she'd been called plain as a girl. But no one would dream of calling her plain now. I stopped at her table later to say hello. And learned she was about to marry one of those three attentive young men. I also learned to my deep satisfaction. That the face powder she was wearing. The face powder that made her skin look so young and fresh, was Lady Esther Bridal Pink. Bridal Pink is a new kind of powder shade, Intensely flattering to four basic skin types. It doesn't matter whether your hair is blond, brown, auburn or black. The instant you apply bridal pink, your skin wakens to new life and Tone your eyes light up, your lips look lovelier. Even your features look daintier blended by the force of hurricanes. Lady Esther Face Powder is so highly pulverized, it's light as a summer breeze on your skin. Yet it completely covers tiny lines and blemishes. And it clings four hours and longer. Be sure to ask for Lady Esther Bridal Pink Face Powder. Accept no other shade, for no shade can give you the radiant look, the happy, confident look of Lady Esther Bridal Pink.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And now Lady Esther presents the second act of Laura, starring Clifton Webb, Gene Tierney, David Bruce and Dana Andrew.

[Dana Andrews]

Seemed I held my breath for an hour or two. Finally, I came back to earth. It was Laura, all right, alive and well. And even more beautiful than her portrait.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Apparently.

[Dana Andrews]

She didn't know any anything had happened. She had been up in the country. No phone, no radio. So I handed her a copy of Saturday's paper and when she looked up.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

You mean I'm supposed to be dead?

[Dana Andrews]

Yeah. But you're not. I guess that's sort of obvious. Now the question is, who? You got any idea?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

No idea at all?

[Vincent Price]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

Who had a key to your apartment?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Nobody.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

What are you going to do?

[Dana Andrews]

Find out who was murdered. Then find the murderer. For the time being, I'll ask you.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

To excuse me, sir. I found this dress in Ms. Laura's closet and.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Hello, Bessie. Miss Laura?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

No. No.

[Dana Andrews]

All right, Bessie. She's alive.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Bessie, there's been a mistake. I'm not a ghost.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Really? Saturday morning I found you. You were dead.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

But I'm alive.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Bessie, can't you. It's been a bad shock for you. You go on home and take tomorrow off. Yes, Miss Laura.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Thank you. Thank you.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Poor thing.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

You've been so devoted. She.

[Dana Andrews]

To what?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

She was bringing this dress in here to you.

[Clifton Webb]

Yours?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

Ever seen it before?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Yes.

[Clifton Webb]

You have.

[Dana Andrews]

Whose is it?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Belongs to a model who works in our office. Her name is Diane.

[Dana Andrews]

Diane Redford.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Do you know about her?

[Dana Andrews]

I know plenty. I know that Shelby Carpenter was two timing you.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

He couldn't help it if she was.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

In love with him.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Diane told me so herself.

[Captain Brennan]

When?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Last Friday.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I asked to have lunch with me.

[Dana Andrews]

Did you know he'd bring her here that night?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I don't know that he brought her here. Neither do you. You're only guessing.

[Dana Andrews]

What other guess is possible? You three are all tied together. Look, do you love this egg enough to risk your own safety for him?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

My safety?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Are you suspecting me?

[Dana Andrews]

I suspect. I respect nobody and everybody. I'm trying to get to the truth. Okay, I'll run along now. Don't leave the house tonight, and don't use the phone.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Am I under arrest?

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

But if anything happened to you now, I wouldn't like it. Promise.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

All right. I promise.

[Dana Andrews]

Good girl. Now, one more thing. You went away to make up your mind about marrying Carpenter. What did you decide? I want the truth.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I decided not to marry him.

[Captain Brennan]

Well, that's.

[Dana Andrews]

Well, I'll see you in the morning.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Good night.

[Dana Andrews]

I had one more job to do that night on Carpenter. He tried to bluff it out at first, but I knew too much. First he admitted he had a key to Laura's place. He'd taken her duplicate from the office. And then I let him have it between the eyes. I told him about Laura's coming back. And after that, he really started to sing. I might as well. I guess you'll find out. Anyway, Diane insisted on seeing me to have things out once and for all. I couldn't go to her rooms, take her to my place, so we went to Laura's to talk. To talk, huh? And she got into a negligee. There'd been a shower. Her dress was wet. She borrowed one of Laura's gowns while she hung her dress up to dry. Go on. Well, we talked for three hours. Then the doorbell rang, and Diane went to answer it. I heard her going down the hall. I heard the door open, and then the shot. By the time I reached her, she was dead. Door was closed. I suppose I should have called police. Why didn't you? I don't know. I guess I was afraid. Not only for myself, for Laura. Why? Did you think she'd done it? Did you? I don't remember what I thought. Do you think so now?

[Vincent Price]

No.

[Dana Andrews]

I hope you're right, Carpenter. I hope you're right.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Come in.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

The door's open.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, good morning, Lieutenant.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

You're just in time. I was about to fix some breakfast.

[Dana Andrews]

No. Tell me you can cook.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Well, when I used to dream about a career, my mother always listened sympathetically and then taught me another recipe.

[Dana Andrews]

Bacon and eggs Swell, but make it for three. I've invited a guest.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Who?

[Dana Andrews]

Aldo Lydecker.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Have you told him about me?

[Dana Andrews]

No.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Why not? You saw what happened to Bessie.

[Dana Andrews]

That's brutal. That's the kind of a guy I am.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Brutal.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

It isn't funny.

[Dana Andrews]

I'm not doing it for fun. Don't move. Don't make it sound. The door's open.

[Captain Brennan]

Come in.

[Clifton Webb]

Good morning, Lieutenant. Any new suspects? To who?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Hello, Waldo.

[Clifton Webb]

Laura.

[Dana Andrews]

Laura.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Waldo. Waldo. What is it?

[Dana Andrews]

He fainted Flat on his face. You know, I think I like him better that way.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I, I I'm really worried about him.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

It wasn't fair to surprise him that way.

[Dana Andrews]

What's fair about a murder? Miss Hunt, I've got to get to the truth.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

And you want me to go through with the rest of it too.

[Dana Andrews]

Just like I said, if Waldo asks.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Me to dinner, I'm to tell him.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

I can't.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

I'm going out with you.

[Dana Andrews]

That's right.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

It won't work. He won't believe me.

[Dana Andrews]

Why does that seem so impossible to you? Does it, Laura?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

No, it doesn't. It doesn't seem impossible at all.

[Dana Andrews]

Did you tell him, Laura? What did he say?

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Oh, you know Waldo.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

First he was annoyed, then sarcastic. Then he suggested lobster thermidor at the Colony. Mark, it's after seven. Do you still think you're right?

[Dana Andrews]

I don't know, Laura. It's a chance we had to take. Remember, if it does happen, I'll be standing by. Be right there behind the screen. And you're not to give it away.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

How won't I?

[Dana Andrews]

There it is, Mark. Steady now. You know what to do.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Just a moment.

[Clifton Webb]

Why, Waldo, am I too early or too late?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Neither. Mark isn't here yet, of course, and.

[Clifton Webb]

I must conclude my business before he arrives.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Business?

[Clifton Webb]

This grandfather clock. It's mine, remember?

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

You mean you came for it now, but you can't carry it. You have to send someone, Laura.

[Clifton Webb]

This clock is very precious. The only one of its kind in the world. You see this hidden spring, Waldo? A secret compartment. A secret compartment large enough to hold a gun.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

A shotgun.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

And you did do it.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

You did.

[Clifton Webb]

I made a mistake on Friday night. I won't make one now.

[Eleanor (Walter's wife)]

Waldo, please.

[Clifton Webb]

The best part of myself, that's what you are. Do you think I'd leave it to the vulgar pawing of a slight second rate detective who thinks you're a dame? No, Laura.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Rather than that, I don't raise that gun.

[Dana Andrews]

If you do, I'll let you have it.

[Clifton Webb]

McPherson, you're here. She lied to me.

[Dana Andrews]

I guess there's been a lot of lying done around here. I knew what did it, and I knew who did it. All I needed was a gun. Thanks, Lydecker. We can go along now.

[Clifton Webb]

Yes, of course. Lieutenant, you're in a hurry. You have a dinner engagement, I believe.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Please.

[Clifton Webb]

My congratulations, Ms. Hunt. I hope you'll be very happy in.

[Dana Andrews]

Brooklyn or the Bronx.

[Clifton Webb]

Wearing an imitation fox and shopping for parlor suits in the credit establishments. I hope you'll never regret what promised to be a disgustingly earthy relationship. Very well, Lieutenant. Shall we go?

[Narrator/Announcer]

On behalf of the Motion Picture Relief Fund, thank you David Bruce, Dana Andrews, Clifton Webb and Gene Turney for your fine performances tonight. And now, before we tell you about next week's show, here's a word from one of America's best known beauty authorities. Lady Esther.

[Laura Hunt (Gene Tierney)]

Do you know that nature is constantly throwing off dry little particles of skin? Those dry, clinging flakes are a real threat to your appearance. They make your powder look rough and bumpy. They make your skin look older. But here's how you can remove those dry little flakes before applying your makeup. Just rub Lady Esther 4 Purpose Face Cream well into your skin. Then wipe it off completely. And along with it will come all those dry, ragged little flecks nature is trying to throw off. You'll see the difference in your mirror. You'll see how beautifully your powder goes on, how smoothly it clings. You'll see the new translucent look of your skin, the clear, youthful finish. Lady Esther Lady Face Cream is a complete beauty treatment in itself. First, it thoroughly cleans your skin. Second, it softens your skin, absorbs the dry flakes. Third, it helps nature refine the pores. And fourth, it leaves a smooth, perfect base for powder. If you want to see a truly dramatic change in your appearance, use Lady Esther Face Cream first. Then apply Lady Esther Face Powder in bridal Pink, the new shade that's so daringly romantic. You'll be delighted by the fascinating new beauty that is suddenly yours.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Next week, the Lady Esther Screen Guild Players will present the great McGetty. It will star Akeemiroth, Ruth Hussey and Brian Donlevy. Be sure to listen. Gene Tierney can soon be seen in Dragon Wick. Dana and Andrews can soon be seen in State Fair, both 20th Century Fox Productions. David Bruce appeared through the courtesy of Universal Pictures producers of Uncle Harry. Clifton Webb will soon be seen in work in the 20th Century Fox production the Razor's Edge. Music on tonight's program was arranged and conducted by Wilbur Hatch. You save enough on the largest size jar of Lady Esther face cream. The Maya box of Lady Esther face powder. So remember, ask for the largest size. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Podcast Host]

We just heard Dana Andrews, Clifton Webb and Vincent Price. Plus an old time radio adaptation of Laura. That will do it for this. That will do it for this week's episode. Thanks so much for joining me and I hope you enjoyed the new format. I'll be back next week to keep Noir Vember going with the stars of the Maltese Falcon. 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 week when I'll return with the stars of the Maltese Falcon, each of them appearing in a tale well calculated. To keep you in.

[Dana Andrews]

Suspense.

[Captain Brennan]

Ladies and gentlemen, the chief hope of our enemies is to divide the United States along racial and religious lines and thereby conquer us.

[Dana Andrews]

Let's not spread prejudice.

[Captain Brennan]

A divided America is a weak America. Through our behavior, we encourage the respect of our children and make them better.

[Joe (Cafe owner)]

Neighbors to all races and religions.

[Dana Andrews]

Remind them that being good neighbors has.

[Captain Brennan]

Helped make our country great and kept her free. Thank you.