Broadway's My Beat: Nick Norman, Santa Claus (EP4577)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Episode Summary: Broadway's My Beat: Nick Norman, Santa Claus (EP4577)

Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host/Author: Adam Graham, Radio Detective Podcasts

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Introduction

In this special Christmas Eve episode of Broadway's My Beat, featured on The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham presents a captivating audio drama set in the bustling heart of Broadway. The story intertwines holiday spirit with classic detective noir, offering listeners a nostalgic journey into the Golden Age of Radio.

Plot Summary

A Christmas Mystery Unfolds

The episode opens on Broadway Christmas Eve, a setting vibrant with carols, dancing locals, and the allure of neon lights. Detective Danny Clover, portrayed by Larry Thor, is introduced amidst the festive chaos of police headquarters, where preparations for the Christmas party are underway. The atmosphere is tinged with both merriment and underlying tensions as Detective Clover interacts with Sergeant Tartaglia and Marty Wednick, the child president of the Police Athletic League.

Marty's plea for Santa Claus instigates the central mystery: Nick Norman, an ex-con and world-famous safecracker, arrives in a Santa suit, disrupting the usual holiday festivities. Cloverd's attempt to maintain order leads to unexpected developments when Norman, grappling with his past, seeks redemption by fulfilling his role as Santa Claus for the community's children.

As the narrative progresses, tensions escalate when Sergeant Tartaglia finds himself stranded atop a Christmas tree, overwhelmed by the absence of Santa Claus. This incident coincides with Nick Norman’s sudden disappearance, prompting Danny Clover to delve deeper into the mystery. The detective's investigation leads him to confrontations with Simon Larrabee, the unscrupulous landlord threatening to cancel the children's party over unpaid rent, and reveals connections to mobster activity aimed at exploiting the festive event for nefarious purposes.

Resolution and Redemption

In a climactic turn, Nick Norman reappears, unveiling the complexities of his character and his genuine desire to bring joy to the children despite his criminal background. The resolution sees Norman standing up to Simon Larrabee, ensuring the Christmas party proceeds, and restoring faith in the spirit of Santa Claus. Detective Clover’s dual role as both enforcer and believer underscores the episode’s themes of redemption, community, and the enduring magic of Christmas.

Character Development

• Detective Danny Clover (Larry Thor): A seasoned detective balancing his tough exterior with moments of warmth, showcasing a more vulnerable side as he navigates the Christmas dilemma.

• Nick Norman/Santa Claus (Howard McNear as a double role): An ex-con seeking redemption through his portrayal of Santa Claus, embodying the struggle between past misdeeds and the yearning for goodwill.

• Sergeant Tartaglia (Howard McNear): A dedicated officer whose personal fears and responsibilities lead to humorous yet poignant moments, including his entanglement in the Christmas tree incident.

• Simon Larrabee: The antagonistic landlord whose demand for rent threatens the festive spirit, representing the common struggle between duty and personal gain.

Key Interactions and Dialogues

• Marty Wednick's Plea for Santa Claus
  [03:38]
  Marty Wednick: "Where is Santa Claus?"

• Sergeant Tartaglia's Christmas Crisis
  [07:00]
  Sergeant Tartaglia: "It's all gone."

• Nick Norman's Redemption Speech
  [25:08]
  Nick Norman: "You know, my sleigh's outside. I'll give you a ride back to my office."

These interactions highlight the characters' motivations and the underlying tensions that drive the narrative forward, blending humor with heartfelt moments.

Host's Commentary and Insights

After the dramatic broadcast of the episode, Adam Graham offers his reflections and analysis:

• Character Depth and Evolution:
  Adam notes, "This was a much warmer side of Danny, the sort of thing that we got to see portrayed in the original New York version of Broadway's My Beat with Anthony Ross."

• Notable Performances:
  Highlighting Howard McNear’s versatility, Adam remarks, "Howard McNear actually played doubles in this episode and he played one of the mobsters who beat up Danny. I don't think I've ever heard him portray a mobster, let alone one who beats up a police officer to protect Santa Claus."

• Narrative Themes:
  Adam emphasizes the episode's balance of drama and holiday spirit, stating, "Nick being Santa Claus to the children adds a layer of redemption and community spirit that enriches the traditional detective story."

Listener Feedback and Engagement

The episode concludes with host Adam Graham acknowledging listener contributions and support:

• Patreon Supporters:
  "Real Udon as our latest Patreon supporter, coming on board at the seamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support."

• Positive Listener Comments:

  • Real Udonnoodle: "Newer listener to your podcast. Started with Dragnet, jumped to Johnny Dollar and cannot wait to see what you have next. Love your commentary and so proud you've made it all these years."
  • Gary: "Great show."

Adam expresses gratitude towards his audience, reinforcing the podcast’s community-driven ethos and encouraging continued support through donations and Patreon subscriptions.

Conclusion

This episode of Broadway's My Beat masterfully blends the charm of old-time radio with a compelling Christmas mystery. Through engaging storytelling, rich character development, and thoughtful commentary, Adam Graham delivers a memorable installment that honors the legacy of classic detective dramas while infusing them with holiday warmth. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this episode offers a delightful mix of nostalgia, suspense, and festive cheer, making it a standout in the podcast’s extensive catalog.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Detective Danny Clover on Redemption:
  [25:08]
  Nick Norman: "You know, my sleigh's outside. I'll give you a ride back to my office."

• Sergeant Tartaglia's Reflection:
  [16:55]
  Sergeant Tartaglia: "Bah, humbug, Danny. That's a Christmas expression I picked up."

• Nick Norman on Mistaken Identity:
  [24:22]
  Nick Norman: "Before they left town for this party, they said to tell you. Oh, Wait a minute. I wrote it down."

These quotes encapsulate the episode's themes of misunderstanding, redemption, and the enduring spirit of Christmas, providing listeners with poignant and memorable lines that resonate beyond the broadcast.

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Final Thoughts

Adam Graham's adept storytelling and insightful commentary not only preserve the essence of old-time radio but also breathe new life into timeless narratives. This episode serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of detective dramas and the universal magic of the holiday season. As listeners follow Detective Danny Clover through the glittering yet gritty avenues of Broadway, they are reminded of the power of belief, community, and the joyous miracles that Christmas can bring.

Transcript

[Danny Clover]

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[Podcast Host]

Welcome to Detectives of Old Time Radio. In a moment we're going to bring you an episode of Broadway's My Bait. But first, I do want to encourage you, if you enjoy the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis by sending a donation through the zelle app to box the [e-mail] and you can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month. And I want to welcome Real Udon as our latest Patreon supporter, coming on board at the seamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support. Now it is time for our first Christmas episode. The original air date December 24, 1949 and the tit Nick Norman Santa Claus.

[Danny Clover]

Broadway's My Beat From Times Square to Columbus Circle, the gaudiest, the most violent, the lonesomest mile in the world.

[Narrator]

Broadway's My Beat With Larry Thor as Detective Danny Clover.

[Danny Clover]

Broadway on Christmas Eve. Broadway's natives dance their Christmas dance to the music of carols flowing out of tinsel loudspeakers. The kids mash their noses against plate glass, lick it and watch the mechanical clown, the mechanized tour army, the Tin man dancing a jig on a tin box. Their eyes are dark with desire and hunger. They make a wish on a neon star. That's how it is on Christmas Eve on Broadway. My Beat on the morning of the day before Christmas, creatures are stirring at police headquarters. There's the patter of tired feet and the sound of manly giggles as little gifts are hidden in desk drawers or poured into Dixie cups or slipped under the police blotter. And in my office there's a kid I knew, name of Marty Wednick.

[Marty Wednick]

Danny, I don't like to disturb you at this unmentionable hour.

[Danny Clover]

10:00 in the morning. Unmentionable?

[Mrs. Norman]

You kidding?

[Marty Wednick]

Sleep has not yet fled from my starry eyes. What makes Me bounce my pillow at an hour. Which is for the squares is a problem.

[Danny Clover]

What's your problem, Marty?

[Marty Wednick]

Am I or am I not the child president of your branch of the Police Athletic League?

[Danny Clover]

You are.

[Marty Wednick]

So I promised my constituency of fellow former delinquents a santy clause for Christmas. That's the problem. When are you gonna give with a Santy Claus? Don't laugh, Danny. A former delinquent shouldn't be disillusioned. Could make him a neurotic. So I repeat on behalf of my constituents. Where is Santa Claus?

[Danny Clover]

He'll be here in a minute, Marty. Sergeant Tartaglia. Oh, here he is. Come on in, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way. Oh, what?

[Marty Wednick]

This guy's a sergeant, huh?

[Danny Clover]

Hey Tortaglia, this is Marty Wednick. He wants Santa Claus.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, he's coming, Danny. He's coming. Come on in, Sandy. Everybody make way everybody for Santa Claus.

[Nick Norman]

And what's your alias name? Little boy.

[Danny Clover]

Ho ho. Hi.

[Marty Wednick]

Hey, this guy's a Santa Claus.

[Nick Norman]

Who's the kid? The punk. Danny, who is he?

[Marty Wednick]

Marty Wednick, that's who I am. So you're Santa Claus, huh? Audition me something.

[Nick Norman]

What? Why you crummy.

[Marty Wednick]

Get your hands off me. Santa Claus. Is this the Christmas spirit?

[Nick Norman]

I'll give it to you in the mouth fresh kid.

[Marty Wednick]

You and how many rings?

[Danny Clover]

Wait a minute, you two. Marty, this is Nick Norman.

[Marty Wednick]

Nick Norman, the ex con.

[Nick Norman]

How do you like this monster? For 15 years I've been playing Sandy Claus at Sing Sing. With no complaints mind you. The first day I am a free civilian playing me old part. The squirt gives me the hook. I resigned from Sandy Claus. I didn't get treatment like this even from the guards.

[Danny Clover]

Take it easy, Nick. Marty didn't mean it. The jamarty.

[Marty Wednick]

How was I to know that Santa Claus here was the world famous light fingered safe cracker?

[Nick Norman]

Ex light fingered world famous safecracker. You.

[Danny Clover]

How does meet with your approval, Marty?

[Marty Wednick]

Well, the costume is sloppy, the beard's moth eaten, but yeah, he'll do.

[Nick Norman]

Don't do me no favors, punk.

[Marty Wednick]

You want to know something, Nick?

[Nick Norman]

What something?

[Marty Wednick]

I like you. I think you are the best Santa Claus that has ever been my privilege to present to my constituents of the pal. This is from the Hartnick.

[Nick Norman]

That's better. You gotta show respect for Santa Claus. What time's your party?

[Marty Wednick]

8:00 tonight. You'll be there?

[Nick Norman]

I'll be there.

[Marty Wednick]

Well, so long, Danny. Sergeant Santa Claus. See you at the party. Merry Christmas.

[Nick Norman]

That's a good kid. Appreciates the finer Things.

[Danny Clover]

Feels good to be out, huh, Nick?

[Nick Norman]

Fifteen years is a long night without sleep, Danny. Yeah, feels good. And thanks for the job of Sandy Claus. I would miss it after all these years.

[Danny Clover]

The deal we made. That feels good to her.

[Nick Norman]

Oh, yeah, yeah, the deal. Sure, Danny. I'll keep my promise to you.

[Danny Clover]

That's good. You won't Forget what happened 15 years ago on Christmas Eve?

[Nick Norman]

How can I forget? It was like today. I was all dressed up like Sandy Claus. I had a few idle hours, and right in front of me there just happened to be an idle safe. So I cracked it. So I got caught.

[Danny Clover]

Uh huh. What are you gonna do now? Between now and 8:00, the time the.

[Nick Norman]

Party starts, Walk the thoroughfares and wish everybody joyous tidings and pat kids on.

[Danny Clover]

The head they leave their mother's purses alone.

[Nick Norman]

Oh, Danny, how can you talk to Sandy Claus that way? I promised you that.

[Danny Clover]

I'm sure you did. Hey, to Taglia. Yeah, Danny, tag along with Santa Claus. Fresh air will do you both good.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, gee, thanks, Danny, Thanks. You know, the fresh air will do us both good.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah, but hold his hand to Taglia so he won't get lost. We don't want him to get lost, do we?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, no, Danny, no.

[Danny Clover]

Because what's Christmas without Santa Claus? Have fun, boys. So everybody was happy, and that was good, because it was the season for it. Sergeant Tartaglia was happy because I had not only given him permission to leave the room, I told him to go out and take a walk with Santa Claus. And everyone knows that Santa Claus is always happy, even if, once upon a time he had to spread his glad tidings around Sing Sing. I considered it a while, and then I decided to inhale the bloom of Christmas as it filtered through police headquarters. And it made me feel happy, too. It lasted for two inhales.

[Simon Larrabee]

The sign on the door says Lieutenant Danny Clover. I don't believe in signs. What's your name?

[Danny Clover]

Uh, what's yours?

[Simon Larrabee]

I came prepared for a question like that. Here's my card.

[Danny Clover]

Thanks. Simon Larrabee, Real Estate and Rentals. You renting something, Mr. Larrabee?

[Simon Larrabee]

Ah, that would give you the upper hand. Two questions to my one, and you haven't answered it yet.

[Danny Clover]

Danny Clover. Like the sign says, that's my name.

[Simon Larrabee]

You're quite right. I am renting something.

[Danny Clover]

Go ahead, rent away. I like to watch.

[Simon Larrabee]

I'm doing it now, just looking at you. I'm renting that property known as the warehouse at 2290 E. Grand St. Well.

[Danny Clover]

If it makes you happy. Wait a minute. That's our clubhouse. That's where the kids are having our Christmas party.

[Simon Larrabee]

Are you?

[Danny Clover]

What's the.

[Simon Larrabee]

What else can it be? Where's the rent?

[Danny Clover]

Rent for what?

[Simon Larrabee]

Rent for that property known as the warehouse at 2290 East Grand Street.

[Danny Clover]

You mean it hasn't been paid? How much is it?

[Simon Larrabee]

It's $62.50 a month. Oh, that includes utilities.

[Danny Clover]

I'll pay it. The club's treasurer will reimburse me.

[Simon Larrabee]

You don't understand, Mr. Clever. When I rent something, I get a year's rent in advance. That comes to 750dol. And I want it before there's any party there.

[Danny Clover]

Are you kidding? Why are those kids gonna get money like that?

[Simon Larrabee]

Well, I'll give you until 8:00 to get the money and I'll just sit right here until then.

[Danny Clover]

All right. Grab yourself a police gazette.

[Simon Larrabee]

Never touch the stuff.

[Danny Clover]

Suit yourself. Oh, excuse me, sonny. Danny Clover speaking. Danny?

[Nick Norman]

Danny.

[Danny Clover]

This is patrolling, Curcio. Yeah, what is it? I can hardly hear you, Curcio. Yeah.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah. Well, no wonder.

[Danny Clover]

Listen, what I gotta talk through.

[Maxine Riddell]

Listen, Danny.

[Danny Clover]

Hey, you see what I mean? Why the sirens? What's the trouble? Sergeant Tartaglia is up a tree. What? Sergeant Tartagula is in a tree on the avenue. A playground, Danny. He flipped his lid. He's telling anyone that'll listen that there ain't no Santa Claus. You better come on down, Danny. When I got down to the avenue a playground, it was having the Christmas party of its life. A 30 foot tree, complete with tinsel, candy canes, colored popcorn balls, firemen and a scared sergeant policeman, forlorn and lost, pinned to its top branch. The fire department finally convinced Tartaglia that a lather was a safe invention for getting down out of tall trees at the bottom rung. He almost believed it when his feet touched the ground. They gave him a blanket because he was suffering from shock. He was about to tell the newsreel boys his ordeal when I faced him.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, Danny, Danny. I was about to tell the newsreel boys my ordeal.

[Danny Clover]

Just tell me first because I hardly ever get to the movies.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I'll be with you in just a minute, sir. Oh, Danny, it was awful. It was something awful.

[Danny Clover]

I only ask this because there's so much about you I don't know. Tartaglia, why do you climb trees?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, I don't, Danny. The height scares me. When I was a child, a tree threw me on the ground.

[Danny Clover]

Still you climbed this tree. Why?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Because I'm a Policeman.

[Danny Clover]

That makes sense. But how?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, sure it does, Danny. The kids see me, I am a policeman. They need to put a star on top of their Christmas tree. They ask me because I am a policeman that can do such things. I couldn't let the department down, Daniel.

[Danny Clover]

So you leave Nick Norman alone all by himself because you don't want to let the department down?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I knew you would say that. But I trusted Nick because he is Santa Claus. He told me I could trust him.

[Danny Clover]

Sure you can, Tortaglia. But what happened to Santa Claus? He's not around.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

That's right. There ain't no Santa Claus, like I've been saying.

[Danny Clover]

They told me you were saying that. What happened to him, Tartaglia?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, Danny, whilst I was up in the tree pinning the star below me, I saw a big black bulletproof sedan.

[Danny Clover]

What kind?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

A big black bullet proof sedan.

[Danny Clover]

Now I know. Then what happened?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, this big black bulletproof sedan stopped by. Nick, our Santa Claus. Two men got out, talked him for a minute, then took him one by each arm, deposited him in the car, closed the door and away they sped, careening on two wheels. I yelled at them to stop, Danny, but I guess they didn't hear me on account of the hustle and bustle.

[Danny Clover]

Our Santa Claus, Tartaglia. Where is he? Where'd he go?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, if I was Santa Claus, I know where I'd go.

[Danny Clover]

Not that it matters, but where?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

To my mother on Christmas Eve. She deserves something like that.

[Danny Clover]

I'm sure she does.

[Nick Norman]

Will we have you now, Sergeant Tartaglia?

[Danny Clover]

Oh, make good in the newsreels, Tartaglia. This may be your big chance.

[Mrs. Norman]

Yeah.

[Danny Clover]

How are you, Mrs. Norman?

[Mrs. Norman]

Hi.

[Danny Clover]

I'm Danny Clover.

[Mrs. Norman]

Yeah?

[Danny Clover]

May I Come in, Mrs. Norman?

[Mrs. Norman]

Why?

[Danny Clover]

I want to talk to you.

[Mrs. Norman]

About what?

[Danny Clover]

About Nick. About your son.

[Mrs. Norman]

Come in.

[Danny Clover]

Thanks.

[Mrs. Norman]

In here in the parlor. Sit down.

[Danny Clover]

Thank you.

[Mrs. Norman]

No, not on that seat. That one. What do you want to talk about? About Nick.

[Danny Clover]

Do you know where he is?

[Mrs. Norman]

Don't tell me no more. One day when he was nine years old, Nick said to me, he said, ma, don't ask me where I been no more. Cause I'll lie to you. That's what he said.

[Danny Clover]

Then you don't know where he is.

[Mrs. Norman]

Don't make me go through that again, sonny. Say, who are you to ask me questions?

[Danny Clover]

I told you I was.

[Mrs. Norman]

Yeah, yeah, you did. You said you's Danny Clover. That don't mean nothing to me. Oh, you must be the guy come about.

[Danny Clover]

Aha, I am. That's why I came.

[Mrs. Norman]

Aha. Will you tell me what you come here for.

[Danny Clover]

For, you know, just as you said.

[Mrs. Norman]

Oh, this I like. Vince lets me play cagey like in the old days. What are you talking about?

[Danny Clover]

You know, your son, Nick.

[Mrs. Norman]

He got a square more than that, kiddo. What about Nick?

[Danny Clover]

We want him to be our Santa Claus.

[Mrs. Norman]

Bingo.

[Danny Clover]

That's good.

[Mrs. Norman]

Oh, it must be good feeling. A young man like you, big, strong, looking for Santa Claus. Me, I just sat here in my rocking chair, Mrs. Norman, thinking about the times we had. Me and Big Ed, my husband, the time.

[Danny Clover]

I have to go now, Mrs. Norman. Where's your son?

[Mrs. Norman]

Oh, you made me go through it again. One day when he was nine years old, Nick said to me.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah? Oh, thanks, Mrs. Norman.

[Mrs. Norman]

Don't ask me where I've been.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Hi, Danny. Did you find Santa Claus?

[Danny Clover]

No, uh, Tartaglia. What are you doing about it?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Me? Nothing.

[Danny Clover]

That's good. Anyone to see me?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah. In your office. Uh, hey, Danny. Danny. What are you angry at me for, huh? Danny?

[Marty Wednick]

Hey, Danny, what's this I hear about Santa Claus taking a powder?

[Danny Clover]

You'll get your Santa Claus. Marty, you still here? Simon Larrabee?

[Simon Larrabee]

Yes, yes, yes. I'm waiting. Just as I told you. I'm waiting for my 750.

[Marty Wednick]

Can you imagine this Ganny on Christmas Eve? He wants his rent. This is a Christmas no Sandy Claus, no party. What am I going to tell my constituents?

[Danny Clover]

It'll work out, Marty. We'll get the money someplace by 8:00, Ms. Tobin. Shut up, Simon.

[Marty Wednick]

But Danny knows Sandy Claus.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Hold it. Hold it, everybody. I got a solution. Communications, this is Sergeant Cartagli in Danny Clover's office. An all points bulletin. Pickup man. Description as follows. Height 5ft 11. Weight 235. When last seen, was wearing a red suit, a red hat with bells and black boots. Identifying marks. Has a long snow white beard. What's his name? Santi Claus.

[Narrator]

You are listening to Broadway's My Beat. Starring Larry Thor as Detective Danny Clover. $51,000 in cash and wonderful prizes. Danny Seymour might play Santa Claus to you tonight. And he might fill up your stockings with that 51 grand. If you can identify the phantom voice, listen in just a little later tonight to sing it.

[Danny Clover]

Broadway brings you Christmas in a lot of ways. You get dribbled around by the opposing teams of last minute shoppers. You ride backwards on up escalators so you can be in a good position for the down escalators. You get mauled and shoved and picked over. Finally you get gift wrapped and sent on your way. My way Was out to lunch and back to police headquarters, holding my Christmas stocking in my hand. I had two things. No rent and no Santa Claus. Two nothings which made for an empty holiday. Sergeant Tartaglia wasn't enjoying himself either, and he expressed himself with sentiment.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Bah, humbug.

[Danny Clover]

What did you say to Taglia?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Bah, humbug, Danny. That's a Christmas expression I picked up. To be used when you wished it was the Fourth of July instead.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah, me too.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

You seen the afternoon pipers, Danny? Yeah. Take a look at it.

[Danny Clover]

Now, you look at it for me. What does it say?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, first it has got a picture on the front page of a tree. In the tree is me. Then it says under it it says, officer Gino Tartaglia. Yeah. Hey, Danny, they spelled it right. Well, Officer Tartagula spent the afternoon cavorting in a tree to the delight and applause of all the little. Well, it runs on like that.

[Danny Clover]

Oh, forget it. It wasn't your fault then.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

That's what I tried to tell Mrs. Tartaglia.

[Danny Clover]

Doesn't she believe you, Danny?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

She called me on the phone. I said, hello. She said, signal, Tarzan. Then she started laughing, hysterical. I can't get her to talk. Every time I pick up my phone, all I hear is Mrs. Tartaglia laughing.

[Danny Clover]

I got my problems too.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah. This is probably the first time in the history of Santa Claus that he's ever heisted from his appointed rounds.

[Danny Clover]

Maybe. Hey, did you get in touch with Nick's mother again like I told you?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, Danny, she ain't nowhere to be found. The old they must have skipped. And the 200 Santa Clauses that the boys investigated, not one of these is Nick Norman under the beard. I'll get it, Danny.

[Danny Clover]

Thanks.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Sergeant. Huh? Yeah, he's here. It's for you, Danny.

[Danny Clover]

Thank you. Danny Clover speaking.

[Maxine Riddell]

Danny, this is Maxie. You know Maxine Riddell.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah. How are you, Maxie?

[Maxine Riddell]

I'm in lingerie, Danny. Come on down.

[Danny Clover]

What?

[Maxine Riddell]

In the lingerie department at Fletcher's department store, working. I got news for you. News about Nick Norman. You interested, Danny?

[Danny Clover]

Yeah. Yeah, I am. Hold on to everything, Maxi. I'll be right down here.

[Maxine Riddell]

Mister, take this black knife down over to that girl over there. She'll gift wrap it up. Hi, Danny. How am I doing?

[Danny Clover]

Great, Maxie, only great. How long you been working here?

[Maxine Riddell]

Only for the Christmas season, Danny. But the way I've been operating, I think maybe they'll keep me on.

[Danny Clover]

No, no questions about your background.

[Maxine Riddell]

You mean about me being a shoplifter?

[Danny Clover]

Uh huh.

[Maxine Riddell]

That's the reason I got the job. The way I was lifting things, I told them it'd be cheaper for them if they put me on the sales force.

[Danny Clover]

So they did.

[Maxine Riddell]

So for 22 bucks a week, I'm an honest mouse. Anyway, it's steady.

[Danny Clover]

Keep it that way.

[Maxine Riddell]

Anything you say, Danny. Well, now that we've had our tea, I guess you want to know about Nick.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah.

[Maxine Riddell]

Breaks my heart to be a stoolie. You know how it is, Danny. Me with my former alliances.

[Danny Clover]

But it's different now.

[Maxine Riddell]

Yeah, different. I want it to be different for Tussie, too. You remember how it was between me and Tussie?

[Danny Clover]

How was it?

[Maxine Riddell]

It was gorgeous. That's why I'm being a pigeon, Danny, if Nick made up his mind to be a kosher citizen, he should stick to it. Not fall back into the arms of a mob like a doll. Who says, Mama?

[Danny Clover]

Which mob, Maxi?

[Maxine Riddell]

Tussie Kahn's such a name for a gorilla. Tussie? How do you figure a name like that?

[Danny Clover]

I don't know him. Where do I find him?

[Maxine Riddell]

Tussie just got back from Chicago. He bought the Domino Club. I happened to be passing there on my lunch hour and I saw Nick in a Santa Claus suit drinking grape juice with Tussie. Oh, excuse me, Danny. A customer. Yes, madam. Something for yourself?

[Danny Clover]

Thanks, Maxie. For what?

[Maxine Riddell]

We have some gorgeous outside girdles, madam. For everyday wear. They're right over here.

[Danny Clover]

The Domino Club in the West 50s is a bright and shiny joint plastered with black glass. It stands close to the ground between two peeling brownstones. When you walk into it, you have the feeling you're walking into the mouth of a beetle. Its walls are lined with black mirrors and its ceiling is draped with folds of scarlet silk. And at 6 o'clock of a Christmas Eve, the boys, complete with Christmas wrapped girls, are beginning to gather. You ask a busboy in white tie and tails, where is Tussie Carnes? And he lifts an eyebrow to a guy standing near the bandstand. A guy grinning like an alley cat while a girl pins a sprig of mistletoe to his lapel. You wait till she kisses Tussie, then Tussie kisses her. But his eyes are open and flicking around the joint. So he sees you and pushes the girl away.

[Nick Norman]

Beat it, Blitzen. I got company. Merry Christmas, stranger. You want something from Tussie Boy?

[Danny Clover]

Same to you. I want Nick Norman.

[Nick Norman]

That's a big desire on a holiday. What do you want, Nick? Tell Tussie Boy.

[Danny Clover]

Maybe I gotta explain. I'm Danny Clover, a cop. I want him.

[Nick Norman]

Don't everybody come with me. Sonny, Santa's right down at the end of this hallway. Merry Christmas, Melvin.

[Marty Wednick]

Ain't it though, Tussie?

[Nick Norman]

Merry Christmas, George.

[Simon Larrabee]

Likewise, I'm sure.

[Nick Norman]

I brought your present, boys. Goody, likewise.

[Danny Clover]

Where's Nick Norman?

[Nick Norman]

This fella here, he says to Tussie boy, he wants Nick Norman, our Santa Claus.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Uh oh, what big eyes you have, mister.

[Nick Norman]

And you know something else that's plain precious, boys?

[Marty Wednick]

No, do tell us, Tussie.

[Nick Norman]

The fella says he is a cop. Isn't that cute, huh?

[Marty Wednick]

I could die.

[Nick Norman]

Yeah, so show the fella Santa Claus, huh, fellas? Merry Christmas, Danny Clover. Oh, Tussie boy said that, didn't he?

[Danny Clover]

Stay away from me.

[Marty Wednick]

But first we want to wish you on a star like you too crazy.

[Danny Clover]

Stay away from me.

[Simon Larrabee]

I think that was not enough stars. I'll give him another package.

[Marty Wednick]

You know that Tussie's good to us. He gave us the best Christmas present two fellas could ever have.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Don't be greedy, Melvin. Leave some for me. Oh, look at that. It's all gone.

[Nick Norman]

Come on, Danny, open your eyes.

[Danny Clover]

What?

[Nick Norman]

Yeah, open your eyes, Danny. It's getting late. Ain't you heard? Christmas is coming.

[Danny Clover]

Hey, it's you, Nick Norman.

[Nick Norman]

Aw, Danny, call me Sandy Claus. That's the nicest alias I got.

[Danny Clover]

Now look, Nick, I'm going to.

[Nick Norman]

Oh, here, I'll help you up, Danny. Sit on the edge of the sofa there. Yeah, Santa Claus, Danny.

[Danny Clover]

Santa Claus, huh? So help me, Nick, where I'm gonna put you. You'll spend the next 94 Christmases in solitary.

[Nick Norman]

Take it easy, Danny. Come on, let's get out of here. I'll be late for that kids party. Come on.

[Danny Clover]

You mean let's get out of here? Just like that? I don't have to beat my way out of here.

[Nick Norman]

What for?

[Danny Clover]

What's all this about, Nick? Santa Claus, you adult today, Danny, what's.

[Nick Norman]

The matter with you?

[Danny Clover]

But you were kidnapped.

[Nick Norman]

Kidnapped?

[Danny Clover]

Me?

[Nick Norman]

I would want to do a thing like that to jolly old me.

[Danny Clover]

A man in a tree said two guys pushed you into a car. He only had a bird's eye view, but he said kidnapped or Humie?

[Nick Norman]

Melvin and George.

[Danny Clover]

I mean Melvin and George.

[Nick Norman]

Two pals from Chicago Cargo, Daddy. They heard I was out and wanted I should be Sandy Claus to a private party they was giving. That's all harmless, guys, pals, buddies, we enjoy each other.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah, they enjoyed me too.

[Nick Norman]

Before they left town for this party, they said to tell you. Oh, Wait a minute. I wrote it down. It says that Dear Danny Clover, sorry we made a mistake and beat up your head. May the bells ring a joyous Noel for you. Signed xx. That's Melvin and George.

[Danny Clover]

Yes. A mistake, huh?

[Nick Norman]

Sure, they knew some mob or other might try to get me a santy clause. They figured you was a mob so they protected me from you like. Like you was fibbing about being a cop. After they walloped you unconscious, they went through your pockets and saw you was really a cop. So they wrote this note. The running ink you see here on the note, Danny, that's tears. You'll forgive him, won't you Danny?

[Danny Clover]

Yeah. How about your mother?

[Nick Norman]

Well, that was your error, Danny. You didn't tell mom you was from the police. So she taught. Just like Melvin and George gave me the double talk. Yeah, that's my mom. A grand old dame, you know. You know what I told her once when I was nine years old?

[Danny Clover]

Yeah. You know, my sleigh's outside. I'll give you a ride back to my office.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, that means the whole thing was an error in identification and motive as they say, huh, Danny?

[Danny Clover]

That's right. Isn't that right, Santa?

[Nick Norman]

Sure. I'll tell it to you again if you want.

[Danny Clover]

No, never mind. What happened to Simon Larrabee?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Oh, he went out for a feast of spud nuts and coffee.

[Danny Clover]

Hey, you don't look very happy, Tartaglia.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

No, Danny, I ain't happy. Unhappy.

[Danny Clover]

What's the matter? We've got Santa Claus. Come on, smile. It's going to be a fine Christmas.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I can't, Danny. I just can't. It's Mrs. Tartaglia. Yeah, now she ain't laughing anymore. The neighbors are laughing and Mrs. Tartaglia is crying.

[Danny Clover]

Why?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Well, the later editions of the paper said that Santa Claus was heisted. It was because I was in a tree. There are the papers saying I single handed messed up Christmas.

[Danny Clover]

Bad as that, huh? Well, I'll tell you, Turtle.

[Marty Wednick]

What about my Christmas party?

[Danny Clover]

Not yet, Sandy. Wait till you get to the party.

[Marty Wednick]

Say, the press was saying that you were snatched, Sandy. What gives? It said that mobsters grabbed you.

[Nick Norman]

Nah, it was just a little misunderstood.

[Danny Clover]

That's right, Marty. Nick was grabbed by mobsters, huh?

[Marty Wednick]

Yeah. Well then how'd he get away?

[Danny Clover]

Sergeant Tartaglia?

[Marty Wednick]

Yeah.

[Danny Clover]

Uh huh. Sergeant Tartaglia. The kind of policeman who tracks down criminals to the lair.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

I am Denny.

[Danny Clover]

The kind that single handed rescued Santa Claus from the jaws of disaster.

[Marty Wednick]

This guy did that?

[Danny Clover]

Yep. I'm just about to call the press boys and tell them about it.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Aw, Danny, I mean it.

[Danny Clover]

Tataga. Don't be so modest. I'm gonna do just that. Danny, put Marty in a cab to Taglia. I'll send Santa down the squad car in a little while.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Yeah, sure. Well, come on, Little Pike. I mean Marty.

[Marty Wednick]

Okay. Merry Christmas, Danny.

[Nick Norman]

Whatever you tell the press guys, Danny, I'll swear to it.

[Danny Clover]

Sure, sure you will.

[Nick Norman]

It's a fine Christmas you're giving everybody, Danny. How about yourself?

[Danny Clover]

I'll have fun at the party. I always do.

[Simon Larrabee]

Where is it? Where's my money?

[Danny Clover]

Oh, look, Mr. Larrabee, it's Christmas.

[Simon Larrabee]

Of course it's Christmas. That's why I want my rent, so I can have a merry Christmas.

[Nick Norman]

Hey, Danny, who is this guy that needs rent to have a merry Christmas?

[Danny Clover]

This is Simon Larrabee. Once a year's rent in advance for that warehouse where the kids are having their party, or else no party. Yes.

[Simon Larrabee]

That's who I am.

[Nick Norman]

Oh, like that, huh? So that's how you are, huh, Simon?

[Simon Larrabee]

Stop breathing in my face, Santa Claus.

[Nick Norman]

All them kids wanting to have a party, and a Simon like you wants to louse it up.

[Danny Clover]

I'll put him down there.

[Nick Norman]

I ain't doing nothing, Danny. Just holding Simon up so I can breathe in his face.

[Danny Clover]

Please.

[Nick Norman]

I want you to think about something, Simon. Think about all those kids that are looking forward to that Christmas party, which ain't going to happen on account of you. Think about it.

[Simon Larrabee]

I'm thinking. Yes.

[Nick Norman]

Maybe you could think better with a pen in your hand, Simon. A pen that will write out a receipt for years rent in advance, huh, Simon?

[Simon Larrabee]

Of course, of course, of course. Christmas spirit and all that.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Simon Larrabee]

I'll get my receipt book. Ah. Oh.

[Danny Clover]

Oh, my.

[Simon Larrabee]

Well, I haven't felt so good in years. Ah, yes. Here you are, Mr. Glover. A receipt for a year's rent in advance. And tell the darlings merry Christmas with us.

[Danny Clover]

Yeah. Yeah, I will.

[Nick Norman]

Ain't he a nice fellow, Danny? Come on, nice fella. I'll take you to a party. Merry Christmas, Danny.

[Simon Larrabee]

It's a merry, merry, merry Christmas, Danny.

[Danny Clover]

Merry Christmas. Yep. Merry Christma. On Christmas Eve, Broadway is almost like any other place in the world. The bells ring out, the horns blow, there's laughter. The Mazdas on the Trans Lux spell out slowly, word by word, peace on earth, goodwill to men. And you read it, you believe it, because on Christmas Eve, you believe a miracle. Then a whirl of confetti is in your eyes, and you're pushed along with a crowd and you never see the next news bulletin. You don't try to look back. It's Broadway. The merriest, the shiniest, the lonesomest mile in the world. Broadway, My Beat.

[Narrator]

Broadway's My Beat stars Larry Thor as Detective Danny Clover and is written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. The musical score was composed by Alexander Courage and conducted by Wilbur Hatch and the program was produced and directed by Elliot Lewis. The cast tonight included Charles Calvert, Gil Stratton Jr. Howard McNear, Hal March, Bert Holland, Shep Menken, Estelle Dodge and Peggy Weber. On Christmas afternoon, Jack Benny will be heard as guests star in a full one hour version of the comedy the man who Came to Dinner. Charles Boyer, Gregory Peck, Rosalind Russell, Dorothy McGuire, Henry Fonda, John Garfield and Gene Kelly will be starring alongside Jack in this special holiday hour. Then an hour later, Jack will be back with his own Sunday night gang for 30 more minutes of holiday hilarity. In fact, the best idea really is stay tuned to CBS all day Christmas Day. Now stay tuned for Sing It Again which follows immediately on most of these same CBS stations. Joe Walters speaking. This is cbs. Where you find Broadway is My Beat every Saturday night, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Podcast Host]

Welcome back. Well, a very different episode, though they try to include some of the usual trappings. Certainly Danny being beaten unconscious on Christmas Eve is about what you would expect and it would not be a Christmas special if it doesn't end with Santa Claus shaking down the evil landlord and threatening serious bodily harm if he doesn't resolve the B plot yet. I think the story is nice for giving us a different side of Danny. He is a bit hard edged and hard nosed in every episode and to be fair, he has to be. But this was a much warmer side of Danny, the sort of thing that we got to see portrayed in the original New York version of Broadway's My Beat with Anthony Ross. Also worth noting is that Howard McNear actually played doubles in this episode and he played one of the mobsters who beat up Danny. And I don't think I've ever heard, and I've been hearing a lot of Howard McNear the last 16 years. I don't think I've ever heard him portray a mobster, let alone a mobster who beats up a police officer to protect Santa Claus. Well, we turn now to listener comments and feedback and we start out with a Patreon user, real udonnoodle who writes newer listener to your podcast. Started with Dragnet, jumped to Johnny Dollar and cannot wait to see what you have next. Love Your commentary and so proud you've made it all these years. Keep up the hard work. And thanks to your wife and son for lending you to us like we grow with you. Well, thank you so much. I appreciate your comment. And thank you so much for becoming our latest Patreon supporter. And then we have a nice comment from our listener survey with Gary writing. Great show. Well, thank you so much, Gary. And now it is time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. Thank you to Rory, patreon Supporter since October 2019, currently supporting the podcast at the Detective Sergeant level of $7.14 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Rory. And that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. Please write and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We'll be back next Wednesday with another episode of Broadway's My Beat. If you want more Christmas programming, we have a Christmas episode posted at the amazing World of [e-mail] great detectives.net great detectives. Christmas programming resumes on Friday, but join us back here tomorrow for Mr. And Mrs. North, where you said Snorty couldn't.

[Danny Clover]

Get away with it. I don't think he could. Who's Snorty? A character in my book. Commits a murder, a beautiful murder. In a crowd. In a crowd. But wouldn't somebody notice? That's just the point.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Not.

[Danny Clover]

Not if there was a distraction. Not if there was a distraction. Sorry, Frisbee. I still don't believe it. I'll take the story, but you've got to change that scene. I'll starve first.

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Huh?

[Danny Clover]

Okay, so I wouldn't starve. He's got me there, Pam. I like to eat too much. Ah, me selling my soul for a bowl of soup. It's filet mignon, brother, and you know it. Well, anyway, the principle's the same. Or the lack of principle.

[Narrator]

But I won't have you murdering my murders.

[Danny Clover]

After all, there's a limit to what an artist will tolerate. I'm sorry, Frisbee. I just can't believe that. Look, look, look. You believe this is a crowd, don't you?

[Narrator]

Definitely.

[Danny Clover]

Well, if I were to kill somebody right here, right now, in front of all these people and nobody noticed. But, Frisbee, then would you take that scene, Jerry? Oh, stop it, fella.

[Nick Norman]

What's the use of it?

[Sergeant Tartaglia]

Would you?

[Danny Clover]

Would you? Well, naturally, but. Okay, that's all I wanted to know.

[Podcast Host]

Frisbee, I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatdetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and please check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.