Candy Matson: Valley of the Moon (Encore) (EP4878)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Episode: Candy Matson: Valley of the Moon (Encore)
Host: Adam Graham
Date: December 31, 2025

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Overview

In this encore presentation, host Adam Graham introduces a classic New Year's-themed episode of Candy Matson, “Valley of the Moon,” originally aired December 17th, 1949. The episode follows San Francisco’s savvy private eye, Candy Matson, as she seeks a restful holiday at a dude ranch in Sonoma’s fabled Valley of the Moon—only to be pulled into a fresh mystery involving a missing ranch owner, a suspicious cowboy, a boozy dowager, and the secrets of the Sonoma hills. Adam closes the episode with his usual post-show commentary and listener interactions, reflecting on the fun, light-hearted nature of the story.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Stage: Candy’s Holiday Plans

(03:39–05:09)

• Candy is worn out post-Christmas and has no grand plans for New Year’s.
• Friend Rembrandt Watson invites Candy along to a dude ranch in Sonoma, the “Valley of the Moon,” as he has a photography job there.
• “New Year’s Eve in the Valley of the Moon. Rembrandt, that sends me good.” (Candy, 05:03)

2. Comic Banter & Character Introductions

(05:10–10:23)

• Inspector Mallard (Candy’s cop ‘chum’) jokes about Candy’s getaway—foreshadowing that she can’t escape trouble.
• Rembrandt and Candy attend a cowboy movie, playfully riffing on western clichés and popcorn.
• “If I so much as step inside the Sonoma city limits, you can come and lead me away quietly.” (Candy, 10:17)
• “I’m gonna remember that.” (Mallard, 10:24)

3. Arriving at the Dude Ranch

(11:00–14:49)

• Candy and Rembrandt are greeted by the brusque Mr. Lawrence, ranch owner, who’s wary of non-paying guests.
• The ranch is tense: the neighboring ranch owner has just disappeared, and a sheriff’s posse is on site.
• Jeff, the affable cowboy-bartender, welcomes Candy and Rembrandt and hints at trouble: “Chang, our regular bartender, took powder on us day before yesterday…” (Jeff, 14:05).
• The Duchess, an eccentric, tipsy, and verbose guest, enters—hinting at a greater mystery.

4. Laying Down the Mystery

(15:07–19:45)

• Over drinks, the Duchess discusses the case of the missing Glen Valley ranch owner, Mr. Ferguson, painting him as wealthy and admired.
• “Here’s to crime.” (The Duchess, 16:13)
• Candy goes riding with Jeff, picks up on an odd detail: Cuban-heeled boot prints in a supposedly impenetrable brush area.
• Jeff realizes Candy is more than she lets on: “The way you was asking those questions just now, it hit me. You’re a detective.” (Jeff, 19:42)

5. Candy’s Sleuthing Escalates

(20:02–22:48)

• Mr. Lawrence finds Candy and Jeff at the creek, orders them back—his authoritative manner raising suspicions.
• Candy finds a ten-gallon hat with the initials J.F. (possibly belonging to Ferguson) near the creek but then finds it missing on her return.
• “Not only was the ten-gallon hat gone, but the boot prints had been completely obliterated.” (Candy, 22:25)

6. Duchess in Distress and Festivities

(22:49–26:09)

• The Duchess complains of indigestion and is cared for by Candy, who notes the appearance of her Cuban-heeled shoes—important evidence.
• Jeff entertains the guests with cowboy songs; the mood is light until Candy announces the Duchess’s sudden death by poisoning.
• “The Duchess is dead in her cabin.” (Candy, 26:22)
• Sheriff is summoned as Candy claims to have solved the crime.

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Major Revelations & Solution

(27:01–30:46)

• Candy lays out the plot:
  • The Duchess had insider knowledge of a lucrative vineyard merger and tried to scheme her way in.
  • Realizing she couldn’t go through with murder, she involved Jeff, who killed Ferguson.
  • Ferguson’s body was hidden in a patch of quicksand; Jeff and the Duchess were set to inherit the properties and broker a deal.
  • The Duchess, overcome by guilt (helped along by drink), was about to confess in writing; fearing exposure, Jeff poisoned her.
• Key evidence:
  • Cuban-heeled footprints, the missing hat, the Duchess’s hidden confession letter, and mud on her shoes.
• “Never underestimate the power of a woman.” (Jeff, 26:54)
• “Too bad he wasn’t content to be just a ranch hand—simple and unspoiled, because... he did have wonderful shoulders. He played the guitar, he sang, and he made Old Fashioneds. All in all, a very nice guy. Except for two vices: hitting from behind—and poisoning.” (Candy, 31:21)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Like the man just said, this is the start of a mystery...” (Candy, 04:36)
• “You know, you’re smart, Ms. Matson. Like they say in that ad, never underestimate the power of a woman.” (Jeff, 26:54)
• “That letter the Duchess wrote proves your point.” (Candy, 27:01)
• “Here’s to crime.” (The Duchess’s ironic toast, 16:13)
• “I was the one who was wrong. You aren’t hard at all. You’re as soft as putty.” (Candy to Mr. Lawrence, 30:20)
• “There won’t be any fun... People should accept their lot: you’re born to be a cowboy, just stay a cowboy. And if you’re born a millionaire, don’t fight that either. Well, goodbye, Ms. Matson.” (Jeff, 30:46)

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Host’s Post-Episode Commentary

(33:35–36:03)

• Adam Graham shares production context, noting the odd air date, the fun and light-hearted flavor of Candy Matson, and his appreciation for the episode’s tongue-in-cheek tone and the poetic ending.
• He reads listener feedback and encourages voting support, wrapping up in his genial, nostalgic style:
  • “This was another just fun mystery with Candy Matson… I like particularly the last line about the Valley of the Moon.” (Adam Graham, 34:52)
  • "Appreciate your support and appreciate everybody’s vote this month…" (Adam Graham, 35:34)

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Important Timestamps

• 03:39: Candy Matson answers the phone; episode proper begins
• 05:03: Rembrandt suggests the “Valley of the Moon”
• 10:17: Candy predicts trouble if she enters Sonoma
• 14:05: Jeff hints at staff disappearing
• 16:07: The Duchess toasts “Here’s to crime”
• 19:14: Candy uncovers the Cuban-heeled boot prints
• 22:25: Candy returns to find evidence—now missing
• 26:22: Candy announces the Duchess’s death
• 27:01–30:46: The solution: Candy exposes Jeff and the Duchess’s scheme
• 31:21: Candy’s closing reflection on Jeff and the Valley of the Moon
• 33:35–36:03: Adam Graham’s closing commentary

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Tone & Style

The episode is clever, brisk, and wryly humorous, blending hard-boiled detective tropes with California flavor and lush setting. Natalie Masters’s Candy is sharp and witty; the supporting cast (Rembrandt, the Duchess, Jeff, and Lawrence) provide both laughs and pathos, making for a memorable radio mystery with a distinctive San Francisco-and-Sonoma twist.

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This summary is intended to offer an engaging and thorough recap for listeners old and new—no spoilers left unturned for sleuths at heart!

Transcript

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[Candy Matson]

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[Grainger Announcer]

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[Adam Graham]

Hello, this is your host, Adam Graham, and we're bringing you New Year's related encores here on the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio. These programs are many years old, so any information contained in them is not valid unless currently reflected on our Great Detectives of Old Time Radio website. If you want to hear fresh Old Time Radio New Year's Podcast, count new episodes of the Amazing World of Radio and the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon. With that said, please enjoy today's episode. Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham and if you have a comment, email it to me, box138detives.net give us a call 208-991-4783 and become one of our friends on Facebook, facebook.com Radiodetectives this episode is brought to you by the financial support of our listeners. Thank you so much for your support. I want to especially thank Matt who sent along a very nice donation. Actually, the second we've received via postal mail. Most of the donations we've received have been through paypal but I know a lot of people prefer to do it through the mail, so we've got that option available. Thanks so much for your donation, Matt. And we'll be sending along access to our premium site, which we do for all donations of $7 or more. Alright, well, now it's time for today's episode of Candy Matson. And this is the New year's episode from December 17th of 1949. Here is the Valley of the Moon.

[Candy Matson]

Hello, Yukon 28209. Yes, this is Candy Matson.

[Narrator]

The national broadcasting company presents candy matson. Yukon 28209. This is the start of a mystery. Our main character is a San Francisco girl detective, Candy Matson. There are others in the show too. An inspector Mallard, a gent who calls himself Rembrandt Watson. A cowboy, a dude ranch owner and a gal the casting agency assured us was a dowager slightly boozy. There are a few other voices along the way too. I think that has all the makings of a good mystery show, don't you? Well, let's go on from here and find out. So here's Candy Matson.

[Candy Matson]

Like the man just said, this is the start of a mystery. Christmas had me completely tuckered out. No one had invited me to the Rose bowl game or the east west of Kisar. So I decided to make like a bear and hibernate over New Year's. It worked out perfectly because as my old friend Rembrandt Watson put it, you.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Wish to greet 1950 in some remote spot. Is that the idea, Dove?

[Candy Matson]

That's the idea, Ducky.

[Rembrandt Watson]

I have the perfect place for you. A dude ranch? Reasonable. Just on the other side of Sonoma, in the Valley of the Moon.

[Candy Matson]

Valley of the Moon? New Year's Eve in the Valley of the Moon. Rembrandt, that sends me good.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Maybe it can send us both. I have a commission to take some pictures up there for a brochure they're putting out. I have to be there tomorrow afternoon. Yes, I see you're nibbling at the bait. I shall be blunt. Why don't you drive me up?

[Candy Matson]

You buen your point. I'll pick you up tomorrow. At what time?

[Rembrandt Watson]

Let us be spectacular and say high noon.

[Candy Matson]

High noon.

[Rembrandt Watson]

And do bring some cash, will you, girl? I'm a little short.

[Candy Matson]

I thought you were going up there on a commission.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Yes, I am. But they have some simply rhyme one arm devices and. And there goes me commission.

[Candy Matson]

Naturally, a girl has to look right to welcome in the new year. That gave me the perfect excuse to squander A few hard earned dollars and cents on some lovely clothes that didn't make sense but cost dollars. The afternoon was aging gracefully. A little gray here and a wrinkle or two there. So I stopped for a parfait, very dry and no olive. With that mission accomplished, I headed back over Kearney Street. And as I wheeled past Portsmouth Square and the hall of Justice, I realized I hadn't seen my chum Mallard in quite some time. Inspector Ray Mallard of San Francisco Homicide. A very smart cop who can smell a clue a mile away. But when it comes to me, he very conveniently carries his own fog around.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Well, candy, my little cupcake.

[Candy Matson]

Mallory, dear, it's. You called me your little cupcake.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Sure. It's still the Christmas season. Let's be charitable, I always say.

[Candy Matson]

What do you always say in a situation like this? Nothing. I just exude a stream of steam from the top of my head.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Very cute. What brings you around our boarding house?

[Jeff]

You.

[Candy Matson]

Darn it. I thought you might like to know I'm going away for a week.

[Rembrandt Watson]

What did they get you on? Petty theft.

[Candy Matson]

Yeah, and they got me as I tried to make my getaway on a tricep. But for your information, Inspector, I'm spending my New Year's Eve up in the Valley of the Moon.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Oh, want to get away from it all, huh?

[Candy Matson]

That's right. You in particular.

[Rembrandt Watson]

In that case, may I get your midwinter vacation off to a flying start?

[Candy Matson]

You can try.

[Rembrandt Watson]

How? I'm not working tonight. How's about a movie?

[Candy Matson]

You've got yourself a date. What's playing? Texas. That's what I thought. Where's Tex and his faithful horse? Mustard Playing this time at the Plaza.

[Rembrandt Watson]

And the pictures of Pip, too, I bet. I read all about it.

[Candy Matson]

Yeah.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Hot lead over Laredo. Look, here's the ad in the paper. Oh, I can't wait to see a searing epic of the West's wild grandeur. Men as rugged as the mountains. A singing saga of scorching bullets, strumming guitars and supple senoritas. And starring the champ of the cowboys, Tex Acoff. What more can one ask in a motion picture?

[Candy Matson]

Popcorn?

[Rembrandt Watson]

Oh, we'll have that, too.

[Candy Matson]

I went home, did some packing for the trip the next day, fix something to eat, and then changed into my spurs. A jingle jangle for Texaca. Mallard arrived, we took off. We got to the early show, so we managed to get some good seats. Of course, he wasn't kidding about the popcorn. He got a great big bag of that. We fumbled our way down the darkened aisle and found a place to sit. The movie was almost over.

[Jeff]

The whole thing looks like a gosh dang frame up to me. They must have snuck off with them head of cattle and over into Inyo.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Here, Caddy, these seats are okay. I'm sorry, lady.

[The Duchess]

So unhappy.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Seats are okay. What I said sure is good popcorn. O sure you don't want some?

[Candy Matson]

What?

[Rembrandt Watson]

I said, are you sure you don't want some popcorn? I keep saying no, no, thank you.

[Candy Matson]

I don't want any popcorn, Mother dear. If you'll pardon me, I'm going home.

[The Duchess]

And catch this on television.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Not with Tess missing.

[Jeff]

This way. I understand your feeling. On the mountain.

[Candy Matson]

After Hot Lead Over Laredo, I suffered through six reels of a bouncy college picture. Freshmen looked like holdovers from the early days of the war. Then a newsreel, then a cartoon, then the trailer. Then again, Tex, AKA we got out about midnight and I drove Mallard back to the hall of Justice. As he got out of the car. Oh, well. Oh, now that's what I call sharp dialogue on leaving the lady. All he can say is, oh, well.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Nothing personal, Candy.

[Candy Matson]

Now he laughed at me.

[Rembrandt Watson]

I was just thinking. You're going up to the Valley of the Moon for a rest. Is that the idea?

[Candy Matson]

Well, yes. That and trying to get away from Texacoff.

[Rembrandt Watson]

I know you too well, Candy. You're not going to have any rest. Look at the headline on that paper in the newsstand there. Man Missing in Sonoma Mystery and Sonoma can have it.

[Candy Matson]

Mallory, dear, if I so much as step inside the Sonoma city limits, you can come and lead me away quietly.

[Rembrandt Watson]

You know something?

[Jeff]

I'm gonna remember that.

[Candy Matson]

Mallard waved goodbye and went inside. I didn't like the way he said that, but I had other things to think about, such as getting home and getting some sleep. So I did. In the morning, I drove over to California street, picked up Rembrandt. We headed out across the Golden Gate Bridge up towards Sonoma. The Valley of the Moon wasn't too far. A couple of hours of leisurely driving with time out for readjustment, and you're there. Then another eight miles north and east, and there was the dude ranch.

[Rembrandt Watson]

This is it, dear. What do you think of it?

[Candy Matson]

Perfect. Just perfect.

[The Duchess]

Wait.

[Candy Matson]

Rembrandtier. It's a real ranch.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Of course, Dove a going concern. They only take in guests as a sideline. Oh, here comes a man. I imagine that's Mr. Lawrence, the owner.

[Candy Matson]

Oh, I'll shut off the motor.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Good morning.

[Rembrandt Watson]

How do you do, sir. Would you be Mr. Lawrence perchance?

[Jeff]

Yes, and you?

[Rembrandt Watson]

Watson. Rembrandt Watson. I'm here to take some pictures for you as we discuss via the bell system.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Oh, yes, Watson, right on time. That's good.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Oh, Candy, may I present Mr. Lawrence, owner of the Double L. Miss Matson.

[Mr. Lawrence]

How Dee Doo.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Miss Matson was wondering if she could get accommodations for about a week. Mr. Lawrence.

[Jeff]

What?

[Mr. Lawrence]

Now wait a minute, Watson. I'm paying you a substantial fee for this job and I won't get stuck with non paying guests.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Oh, I think you're laboring under a misappreciation.

[Candy Matson]

Hold it, Rembrandt. Look, Mr. Lawrence, I'm here as a commercial guest. I'm not asking for any favors and I doubt if I'd stay here now if you got down on your bended knuckles.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Oh, now wait a second. I didn't mean it just that way. I apologize. It's only that, well, I've had some tough luck with people lately who seem to be only too intent on beating me out of their bills. Please, Ms. Matson, excuse me. I just jumped to conclusions, that's all.

[Candy Matson]

I think you set a new record for the jump.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Forget it, Dal do.

[Candy Matson]

Okay. I'm sorry. Do you have room for me, Mr. Lawrence?

[Jeff]

Why, yes, yes, of course.

[Mr. Lawrence]

A delightful cabin just in back of the ranch house. Not being prepared, it'll take about an hour to get it in shape. Will that be all right?

[Candy Matson]

Yes, sure. We can eat in the meantime.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Fine.

[Mr. Lawrence]

I'll get one of the boys to fetch your luggage. Oh, you can park over there under the old stables.

[Candy Matson]

Oh, no.

[The Duchess]

Garage.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Again, I have to apologize, Ms. Matson. The garage is overloaded. Now. We have a sheriff's posse up here. The owner of the ranch next to mine disappeared yesterday afternoon. The sheriff is searching the entire vicinity around here.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Dove, are you all right? Well, speak to me, girl. What is it?

[Candy Matson]

I'm all right. I just happened to think of something Mallard once said. Last night. I pushed my assembled horsepower into the stables where they belonged and Rembrandt took me by the arm and steered me into the ranch house. It was a beautiful place. A tall, cathedral like living room with a crackling fireplace about the size of Daddy's inferno at one end. Off to this one side of the fireplace was a cozy little bar. The sun was just going over the yard arm, so I figured an Old Fashioned would be quite in order. Old Fashioned was right. Behind the bar was a personification of an Old Fashioned cowboy. Real chaps, leathery face and little squint wrinkles around his eyes. Well, howdy, Tick. Seems like as if I done saw you in a movie last night.

[Jeff]

Howdy yourself, ma'? Am. Nope. Must have been two other cowboys. I've been working here at the Double L for almost five years.

[Candy Matson]

My mistake, partner. Matson's the handle. What's your.

[Jeff]

Is that the way cowboys talk, ma'? Am?

[Candy Matson]

Yeah, Hollywood and Vine variety. I'm glad to know you.

[Jeff]

Call me Jeff, Ms. Matson.

[Candy Matson]

Jack, this is Rembrandt Watson. Rembrandt, Jeff.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Are those shoulders sewn in or are they real?

[Jeff]

I'm afraid they're real. Hiya, Mr. Watson.

[Candy Matson]

You riding heard on all those bottles back there, Jeff?

[Jeff]

Yep. For better or worse. Chang, our regular bartender, took powder on his day before yesterday. Uh.

[Candy Matson]

Oh. Seems like he picked a bad time to do a run out.

[Jeff]

Oh, you mean the missing gent from Glen Valley.

[Candy Matson]

Glen Valley?

[Jeff]

Yeah, that's the ranch next to ours. I understand the police are on the lookout for Chang, but he didn't do it. He's a good, honest Chinese boy.

[Candy Matson]

Even so, it's a bad time to disappear.

[Jeff]

Oh, I admit it doesn't sound good. Well, you folks won't mind the efforts of an amateur dispenser. What can I do for you?

[Candy Matson]

An Old Fashioned for me, Jeff.

[Jeff]

Well, that I can try from now on.

[Candy Matson]

It gets easier. Rembrandt only wants the coke.

[Jeff]

Oh, I can sure fix that, all right. Oh, what's wrong? Here comes the Duchess.

[Candy Matson]

The duchess?

[Jeff]

Yeah, one of our guests. She's been out here about two weeks, and she can go through distilled spirits faster than a buzz saw through mushy pine. And I hope you're prepared to talk.

[Candy Matson]

Always. Always.

[The Duchess]

Hello, my dear. You just arrived, haven't you?

[Candy Matson]

Mentally or physically?

[The Duchess]

Oh, my, a sense of humor. Joe, I. I shall enjoy your company. Are you staying long?

[Candy Matson]

Well, I. I'm not sure now. My plans are rather indefinite.

[The Duchess]

Oh, you'll love it here, miss.

[Candy Matson]

And may I present Mr. Rembrandt Watson.

[The Duchess]

Charmed, I'm sure.

[Rembrandt Watson]

As of now, me life has come in.

[The Duchess]

Oh, you delightful lady. Jeff, dear boy, make me just a little nip for the old favorites, will you?

[Jeff]

Sure. One painkiller coming up. Here's your Old Fashioned, Miss Matson. Thanks, Mr. Watson. Your coat.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Thanks, Aunt.

[The Duchess]

Young lady, you must be an actress. You look like.

[Rembrandt Watson]

What?

[Candy Matson]

No, I'm not.

[The Duchess]

I used to be an actress. A famous one. I toured all over the continent with the greatest of stars, the finest of plague. I was the toast of London, Berlin, Vienna. Yes, but I. I Had kings and princess worshiping at my feet. I was once the vortex of an international incident.

[Candy Matson]

But no matter.

[The Duchess]

Those days are gone forever now.

[Jeff]

And here's your tonic.

[The Duchess]

What? Oh, thank you, Jeff. Well, as we used to say, here's to crime.

[Candy Matson]

What was that?

[The Duchess]

It's a perfect toast. We have quite a mystery in this part of the country, young lady.

[Candy Matson]

And so I keep hearing.

[The Duchess]

I can't understand. Mr. Ferguson had everything to live for.

[Candy Matson]

Mr. Ferguson?

[The Duchess]

The man who owned Glen Valley. Wealthy, good looking, in the best of health.

[Candy Matson]

You seem to know quite a bit about the gentleman, Duchess.

[The Duchess]

Only what I read in the newspapers and I can't understand it. Well, as I said, use to cry.

[Candy Matson]

We delied at the bar for a few more moments. Then Jeff informed me that lunch was ready and Rembrandt and I ate. We managed to duck the Duchess. I don't think I could have taken her with food. After lunch, Lawrence showed me to my cabin. It was, as he said, delightful. With a warming flame in the fireplace. It was cheery and comfy and I felt completely at home. Lawrence left to talk to Rembrandt. They were going to discuss the pictures he wanted taken. I felt like going riding, so I changed in my jeans and started to leave. But as I did.

[Jeff]

Oh, sorry, Ms. Matson. I didn't mean to frighten you.

[Candy Matson]

You did.

[Jeff]

I was just about to knock when you opened the door.

[Candy Matson]

That's okay. Was there something you wanted?

[Jeff]

Well, you're in riding clothes and that answers my question. The question being, were you going riding? You see, the boss wanted to know if you were going riding. And if so, did you want some company? I usually show the guests around the acres.

[Candy Matson]

Well, yes, that'd be wonderful.

[Jeff]

And how long do you want to be out, Ms. Matson?

[Candy Matson]

About three hours or so.

[Jeff]

Sure. In that case, we'll take the deluxe tour over across the back 60 and up through Manzanita Canyon. You know, when we get up to the top of Iron Mountain, you can see the whole valley of the moon.

[Candy Matson]

That's for me, Jeff. Let's hit the leather. Jeff was obviously born to the saddle and came into this world teething on a tether rein. He couldn't tell where the horse left off. And Jeff began a real rider. We nosed out through the clump of ranch buildings and on into open space. I had a fine horse under me and I really felt like I was living. We'd been riding about an hour when we came across a little stream. Jeff indicated we should stop and water the horses. How long have you been A cowboy, Jeff?

[Jeff]

Oh, about as long as I can remember.

[Candy Matson]

Round here?

[Jeff]

No, up around Montana. Then little by little, I gradually drifted further west. Hit upon the Valley of the Moon about five years ago. Fell in love with it. I've been here ever since. Reckon I'll stay here, too.

[Candy Matson]

I don't blame you. Excuse me. I seem to be full of questions, Jeff.

[Jeff]

Well, that's what I'm here for, ma'.

[Candy Matson]

Am. Good, because I've got a couple more. What's up that little draw there on the other side of the creek?

[Jeff]

Nothing but a tangle of manzanita, scrub oak and brush.

[Candy Matson]

Pretty hard to get through there. Hm.

[Jeff]

Hard? It's impossible. I've seen chipmunks get fouled up in that draw.

[Candy Matson]

Uh huh. Then how come those boot prints are going right up there?

[Jeff]

Boot prints? I don't see any. Well, hey, you're right either.

[Candy Matson]

Boot prints are the result of shoes with Cuban heels.

[Jeff]

Well, now there's a strange one.

[Candy Matson]

Exactly what I thought, too.

[Jeff]

Say, you know, something just dawned on me, Matson. Didn't I see your pictures in the Frisco papers? Couple of weeks back.

[Candy Matson]

San Francisco.

[Jeff]

Big pardon?

[Candy Matson]

San Francisco?

[Jeff]

Oh, yeah, San Francisco. Excuse me. Sure. You know, the way you was asking those questions just now, it hit me. You're a detective.

[Candy Matson]

I'm afraid you got me. Pardon.

[Jeff]

Wait a minute, Ms. Matson. Listen.

[Candy Matson]

That's Duck, Jeff.

[Jeff]

Too late now. What the. Well, whoa there.

[Mr. Lawrence]

What are you doing? Over this way, Jeff.

[Jeff]

Hi, boss. Whoa. Say, you give us quite a little start.

[Mr. Lawrence]

You haven't answered my question.

[Jeff]

Oh, we just stopped to wallow the horses, Mr. Lawrence. Ms. Matson here is a mighty fine rider. She wanted to make the big circle of the ring.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Well, you certainly picked a fine time to do it. Sheriff's posse is out around this way. You're liable to get shot. Now get back to the ranch, Bronto.

[Candy Matson]

Just a moment, Mr. Lawrence. You've been uncivil ever since I got here and I don't like to be dictated to.

[Mr. Lawrence]

It's like being on board ship, Miss Matson. The captain is the law. I am the owner of this property and you'll do as I say. Now get moving, both of you. If you don't like my attitude, you can leave any time you want.

[Candy Matson]

Leave? Now?

[Jeff]

Yes.

[Candy Matson]

Oh, no, Mr. Lawrence. I'm beginning to find your ranch extremely interesting. Jeff and I wheeled our horses about and sifted back to the ranch house. I looked back a couple of times, but there was no sign of Lawrence. I was mad and Jeff must have sensed it because he was smart enough to keep his mouth closed. As I dismounted at the stables and headed for the house, he waved me a forlorn adios and disappeared. Just as I went through the door, I was greeted by Rembrandt.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Oh, there you are, Dove. I was about to institute a searching party for you.

[Candy Matson]

Oh, I was safe enough until I gained a grips with a thing my own temper. What have you been doing, ducky?

[Rembrandt Watson]

I've had a most delightful afternoon, Candide. I've been playing canasta with the Duchess.

[Candy Matson]

Canasta? Oh, you don't know how to play canister.

[Rembrandt Watson]

I know that and you know it, but I don't think the Duchess does. She celebrated each hand with a hefty pull on her bitters.

[Candy Matson]

How'd you manage to make any sense out of the game?

[Rembrandt Watson]

That has me puzzled too. All I'd do is put down some cards, any cards, and she'd congratulate me.

[Candy Matson]

Maybe you've got a green thumb for the game. Incidentally, I thought you were going to be taking pictures this afternoon.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Call off on account of the law. Mr. Lawrence had to ride out into the lone quarry and deliver a phone message to the sheriff. He's making like ghost riders in the sky. Healthy. Do go and change, dear. You smell of horses.

[Candy Matson]

Yes, I know.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Incidentally, we're to have a soiree this evening. Two more guests arrived. The cook tells me there to be a little entertainment after dinner.

[Candy Matson]

Good. Around here, anything will be an improvement. I didn't tell Rembrandt I was going to change, so it wasn't a fib when I stayed in my jeans. I went back to the stables, got the boy to rig me another horse and headed out toward that creek again. I rode faster this time because I noticed something else there besides the footprint. It was a battered 10 gallon hat on the far side of the creek with studded initials J.F. on the crown. But when I got there, the cupboard was bare but good. Not only was the 10 gallon hat gone, but the boot prints had been completely obliterated. I stayed for another few minutes, a study in frustration, and then went back to the ranch. I changed, met Rembrandt, had dinner, and then we relaxed in the living room.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Oh, Dove, I'm so full. This outdoor living makes me ravenous outdoors.

[Candy Matson]

I don't think you've stepped out of this building since we got here.

[Rembrandt Watson]

Well, then it's the thought of outdoor living that does it. Oh, they are the new arrivals all by the fire.

[Candy Matson]

Did you meet them?

[Rembrandt Watson]

No. They looked at me as Though I might soil their escutcheon, whatever that is.

[Candy Matson]

I can see what you mean.

[Jeff]

Hi, folks. Do you enjoy your dinner?

[Candy Matson]

Oh, hello, Jeff. Yes, it was wonderful.

[Jeff]

Has anybody seen Mr. Lawrence or the Duchess?

[Candy Matson]

We haven't seen Lawrence. No, the Duchess is over there writing a letter.

[Jeff]

Oh. Well, I hope you'll all drop around in about an hour. I'm going to do some singing and a little guitar plucking.

[Candy Matson]

Is there anything you don't do, Jeff?

[Jeff]

No, very little. But none of them too darn good either.

[Candy Matson]

Sure, we'll be here, won't we, Rembrandt?

[Rembrandt Watson]

Well.

[Narrator]

Oh, yes.

[Rembrandt Watson]

I go with three diamonds and a joke car.

[Candy Matson]

Jeff left, Rembrandt snoozed, and I threw a wrap around my shoulders and took a stroll around the patio. The air felt good. I went over to my cabin, picked up some cigarettes and started back. But as I came close to the cabin opposite mine. Oh, it was the Duchess. I recognize those tones and groans anywhere. Duchess? Yes, this is Candy Matson. Are you all right?

[The Duchess]

Yes, I'm all right. Touch of indigestion, I should imagine.

[Candy Matson]

Is there anything I can do? Can I get you something?

[The Duchess]

Oh, what a dear thing you are. No, I'll be all right. I have these attacks all the time. You run along and enjoy yourself. Jeff is going to sing. He's such a dear boy, but you're.

[Candy Matson]

Sure you'll be okay?

[The Duchess]

Yes, yes, dear. Go along here.

[Candy Matson]

Now, let me put a blanket over you. And take off your. Your shoes. You'll be ever so much more comfortable.

[The Duchess]

They're so sweet, so pretty. They remind me of myself when I was young. Thank you. Thank you so much.

[Candy Matson]

I tucked the old girl in and left it a dream of the past and went back to the ranch home. Jeff was just pulling up a chair in front of the fireplace.

[Jeff]

You'll have to understand, folks, I'm not a singer. I don't pretend to be. I just warble along the way, I feel. Now, is there any particular kind of cowboy tune you'd like to hear?

[Rembrandt Watson]

No, Jeff, I don't. Just sing a favorite of yours.

[Candy Matson]

Good idea. Just do what comes naturally.

[Jeff]

Okay, you asked for it. Let's see. Here's one I think you might like. O Barry, me darling on the lone prairie where the coyote and the wind blows free In a narrow grave Just six by three, but buried. Oh, hi, you, boss. Oh, I'm sorry, Jeff.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Go right on with what you were doing.

[Candy Matson]

No, Mr. Lawrence, you arrived just in time. The entertainment's over.

[Mr. Lawrence]

What?

[Jeff]

What are you talking about?

[Candy Matson]

Ms. Matson I said the show is over. Is the sheriff around?

[Mr. Lawrence]

Yes, he and his men are outside. They're just leaving for the night.

[Candy Matson]

You better call him back right now. The Duchess is dead in her cabin.

[Rembrandt Watson]

What?

[Candy Matson]

Poisoned.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Wait a minute.

[Jeff]

Sheriff.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Sheriff Hobbs?

[Jeff]

Yes, you horse.

[Mr. Lawrence]

That's right. Can you and your men come back for a spell? Seems we have more trouble.

[Jeff]

Okay, we'll be over as soon as we tie up the horse.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Now then, what's this all about?

[Candy Matson]

Well, I could tell you, Lawrence, but I think it'd be more proper coming from the star himself. Don't you think so, Jeff?

[Jeff]

Looks like this is it, doesn't it? You know, you're smart, Ms. Matson. Like they say in that ad, never underestimate the power of a woman.

[Candy Matson]

That's right. That letter the Duchess wrote proves your point.

[Rembrandt Watson]

What?

[Jeff]

How'd you get hold of that letter? I thought I. Oh, she wrote a duplicate, is that it?

[Candy Matson]

Like you say, never underestimate the power of a woman.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Wait a moment. I don't understand what's going on here.

[Jeff]

Go ahead, Ms. Madison. You tell. Looks like I'm not the star any longer.

[Candy Matson]

Well, Lawrence, up to about two weeks ago, you had as nice and gentle a cow folk working for you as there ever was. Then the Duchess arrived. She wasn't kidding when she claimed to have mingled with nobility, important people. The matter of fact, she had an inside tip about your ranch and the one next door. Ferguson's place, Glen Valley. Didn't you receive a fantastic offer for your property from a big wine company just recently?

[Jeff]

Why, yes, I did.

[Candy Matson]

So did Ferguson. They were going to merge the two places and make it one of the world's largest vineyards.

[Jeff]

I didn't know about that part of.

[Candy Matson]

It, but the Duchess did. She wanted in on the ground floor. That's why she came out here. She tried. Tried to talk business with Ferguson, but he'd have none of it. So in one of her boozy moments, she hit upon the idea of doing away with Ferguson. But she didn't have the nerve to go through with it. That's when she approached Jeff here and cut him in on the deal. Jeff was tired of the poor but honest cowboy routine, saw a chance making heavy sugar and went along with the gag. Right, Jeff?

[Jeff]

She's got it straight so far, boss.

[Mr. Lawrence]

Jeff, I can't believe my ears.

[Candy Matson]

That's nothing. Just wait a while. Jeff and the Duchess were out riding one afternoon when, by chance, Ferguson rode up to just where the boundaries of the two ranches meet. While the Duchess talked to Ferguson, Jeff Sneaked around and back and bashed in his head. They hold him up to that draw where you bumped into us this afternoon. I know now why you ordered us out of there. On the other side of that snarl of brush and manzanita, there's a quicksand pit that is now Ferguson's permanent residence.

[Jeff]

This is terrible. Terrible.

[Candy Matson]

In a hurry to dispose of your late neighbor? They left shoe prints along the bank of the creek. And they also overlooked Ferguson's hat with his initials on it. I'm mighty glad you came by when you did, Laura. After I had noticed the boot prints, I think Jeff was going to dump me into the quicksilver.

[Jeff]

You're right again. After the boss sent us back in, I sort of figured to get you tonight instead.

[Candy Matson]

And then, Lawrence, you were going to be next because in your will, you would name Jeff as your sole heir. Is that right?

[Jeff]

That.

[Mr. Lawrence]

That's right. I love him like a son.

[Candy Matson]

Then the duchess and Jeff could have swung a hard bargain with that wine outfit. All very smooth. Except for one thing.

[Jeff]

One thing. I'm kind of curious about that one thing, Ms. Matson.

[Candy Matson]

Alcohol, Jeff. It's not only lifting to begin with, but also acts as a depressing agent. The duchess had been inviting all day. And after dinner, she arrived at that point of depression, realized what a horrible thing she had done, and she wrote the full story about the wine company and Jeff's duplicity and made a copy. You were afraid of that yourself, Jeff. That's when you went out and slipped the old girl a lethal mickey. I heard her groaning and went in to investigate. She said it was indigestion, but I knew differently. Her breath. And I knew, too, that she'd be dead within five minutes. Then I saw her shoes. Cuban heels with mud caked on the inner side of the arch. That's when I had a hunch the letter she was writing had a definite meaning. You overlooked it, Jeff. I found it where only a woman would think of looking. Tucked inside her bosom. I'm sorry, Lauren. I had you figured wrong from the start. I was the one who was wrong. You aren't hard at all. You're as soft as putty. Well, Jeff, here comes the sheriff.

[Jeff]

Yeah, so I see. Well, I'm ready for him. You can't beat a royal flush with a pair of deuces. Or should I say deuce? Dunce it go. There won't be any fun. And all of a sudden, it dawns on me, people should accept their lot. You're born to be a cowboy. Just stay a cowboy. And if you're born a millionaire, don't fight that either. Well, goodbye, Ms. Matson. And I'm glad the boss happened along when he did. I don't think quicksand would look good.

[Mr. Lawrence]

On.

[Candy Matson]

Like Jeff said, he went quietly. No trouble. Too bad he wasn't content to be just a ranch hand, simple and unspoiled, because his Rembrandt had noticed he did have wonderful shoulders. He played the guitar, he sang, and he made final fashion. All in all, a very nice guy. Except for two vices, hitting from the behind and poisoning the valley of the moon. I'll go back. It's lovely. After all, one man with a snarled brain can't undo the work of the original master painter.

[Narrator]

Listen again next week at this same time.

[Candy Matson]

For excitement and adventure, just dial Candy Medicine, Yukon 28209.

[Narrator]

Heard tonight were Helen Kleeb as the Duchess, Lou Tobin as Lawrence, and Clancy Hayes as Jeff. Henry Leth is Inspector Mallard in Jack Thomas's Rembrandt. The program stars Natalie Masters as Candy and is written and produced by Monte Masters. Sound effects were created by Bill Brownell and Jay Rendon. Eloise Rowan is heard at the organ. The characters in tonight's story are entirely fictitious and any resemblance to actual people is purely coincidental. The program came to you from San Francisco. Dudley Manlove speaking. You are tuned for the stars on NBC.

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, December 17th is an odd air date for a New Year's episode.

[Candy Matson]

But.

[Adam Graham]

That is what has been verified through digital daily, so we'll go with that. I think one challenge with Candy Matson and being timely in terms of the airing episodes was the show was always constantly being shuffled about as we talked about a few weeks back. So it could be that the episode was intended to be aired later, but just because of all the shuffling around, they just wanted to keep the scripts in order. I actually toyed with using the part where she annoyingly says San Francisco. When Jeff says Frisco in the intro to the show, I thought I would jokingly say Frisco and then show her play her annoyed response of San Francisco. But she wasn't as annoyed as I remembered when it came time to record it, so I didn't opt for that particular joke. This was a pretty fun episode as usual. It didn't take itself, you know, incredibly seriously, but it did have a kind of a message in the end about I like particularly the last line about the Valley of the Moon. So this was. This was another just fun mystery with Candy Manson. Well, now we turn to listener comments from Podcast Alley and a simple one from Dan. Keep them coming. Thanks so much, Dan. Appreciate your support and appreciate everybody's vote this month on Podcast Alley. We've come up pretty high in the standings, so encourage you if you've not voted to cast your [e-mail] follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and give us a call 208-991-4783 and become one of our friends on Facebook facebook.com radiodetectives but from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

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[Grainger Announcer]

If you're a maintenance supervisor for a commercial property, you've had to deal with everything from leaky faucets to flickering light bulbs. But nothing's worse than that ancient boiler that's lived in the building since the day it was built 50 years ago. It's enough to make anyone lose their cool. That's where Grainger comes in. With industrial grade products and dependable, fast delivery, Grainger can help with any challenge from worn out components to everyday necessities. Call clickgrainger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.