Lux Radio Theater: Street With No Name (EP4604s)

Summary

Summary of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio" Episode: Lux Radio Theater – Street With No Name

Introduction

In the landmark 4,600th episode of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham celebrates a special milestone by presenting the Lux Radio Theater's classic drama, Street With No Name. This episode pays homage to the Golden Age of Radio, intertwining a gripping detective narrative with historical ties to iconic works like House on 92nd Street. Notably, this rendition stars Lloyd Nolan reprising his role as FBI Inspector George Briggs, a character originally portrayed by Humphrey Bogart in the 1940s film adaptation.

Plot Summary

Street With No Name unfolds in Center City, where a series of violent crimes has plunged the community into fear. The story kicks off with the brazen robbery and subsequent murder of Helen Jennings at the Meadowbrook Plaza, followed closely by the killing of a bank guard during an attempted heist. These federal offenses bring the formidable FBI Inspector George Briggs into the investigation, aiming to dismantle the emerging underworld network.

Inspector Briggs partners with Gene Cordell, an undercover agent tasked with infiltrating the notorious Stiles gang, led by the cunning and ruthless Alex Stiles. The gang's sophistication is highlighted by their manipulation of police records, facilitated through corrupt councilman Demery, ensuring that members like Robert Danker appear innocent on paper. Danker, a playboy with a clean slate, becomes an unwitting pawn in the gang's scheme, framed for the murders to divert attention from their operations.

As Briggs delves deeper, he recognizes the complexity of dismantling a gang deeply entrenched within the city's power structures. Cordell's undercover work takes him into the gritty environs of Skid Row, where he navigates pool rooms, gyms, and arcades to gain the trust of the Stiles gang. Tense confrontations ensue, especially between Cordell and Stiles, leading to pivotal moments where the true extent of the gang's corruption is unveiled.

The climax builds as Briggs and his team move to apprehend the gang during a planned robbery at the Anderson Manufacturing Company. However, internal betrayals and the gang's cunning tactics nearly derail the operation. In a dramatic turn, Councilman Demery, whose complicity is exposed, aids the FBI in capturing the gang members, culminating in the takedown of Alex Stiles and the restoration of order in Center City.

Notable Quotes

• Inspector Briggs (03:22): "This is a stick up."

• Alex Stiles (03:26): "You better stop this double talk, Danker, and start giving us some facts."

• Inspector Briggs (10:50): "What's the story, Inspector?"

• Gene Cordell (15:07): "This is a one man job, Gene. Si will only be your contact."

• Alex Stiles (40:28): "The street on which crime flourishes is the street extending across America."

These lines encapsulate the tension and strategic maneuvering between law enforcement and organized crime, driving the narrative forward.

Host Commentary

After the broadcast of Street With No Name, Adam Graham offers insightful analysis on the episode, reflecting on its thematic elements and execution.

"A fairly interesting undercover story. I really did like the scene with Stiles talking about the idea that what's the point of having a war if you're not going to learn from it? This suggests that military service may have taught some criminals to be better and more systematic in the way they approach crime, certainly an unintended consequence of a mass draft that was required to win that massive victory" ([66:51]).

Graham critiques the narrative structure, noting that the criminal characters in this episode lack the depth and uniqueness found in other classics like T-Men or the original House on 92nd Street. He praises Richard Widmark's performance as elevating the production but feels the radio adaptation falls short in delivering a compelling procedural drama.

"The FBI procedure was a bit more paint by numbers and basic. Now I did watch the film and to me the highlight of that film was Widmark's performance, which I think elevated the whole piece. I don't think it's quite as strong in the radio version. He seems a bit more subdued and also this was kind of a message piece" ([66:51]).

Graham also points out the episode's didactic approach to addressing organized crime, suggesting that while the intention to raise public awareness is commendable, the storytelling could have been more engaging by involving citizen participation in solving crimes.

Conclusion

Street With No Name serves as a nostalgic journey into the world of old-time radio detective dramas, showcasing the enduring appeal of procedural storytelling and the charismatic performances of its leads. While Adam Graham acknowledges certain shortcomings in character depth and narrative complexity, the episode remains a testament to the era's dedication to highlighting the battle between law enforcement and organized crime. For enthusiasts of radio dramas and classic detective stories, this episode offers both entertainment and a reflection on the methods used to confront societal challenges of yesteryears.

---

Additional Information

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio continues to celebrate the rich legacy of radio mysteries, featuring beloved series from the Golden Age of Radio. Host Adam Graham, recognized as a Podcast Award finalist, enriches each episode with his knowledgeable commentary and engages with listeners through thoughtful analysis and humor. Subscribers can explore a vast archive spanning fifteen seasons, accessible via the podcast's website and various podcast platforms.

Transcript

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment, I'm going to bring you our 4600th episode special. But before we get started, I do want to encourage you, if you enjoy the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Last month when we played Martin Cain, it called to my mind that we were long overdue to play a special featuring Mark Stephens. And one of those specials was the Lux Radio Theater version of street with no Name. And anytime I thought about playing that particular special in the past, I decide not to because it was linked to the house on 92nd street as both featured the character of FBI Inspector George Briggs. And so I wanted to play something related to House on 92nd street first. This time when I thought about it, we of course did play an adaptation of house on 92nd street back in October of 2023. That version featured Humphrey Bogart as George Briggs. This version features Lloyd Nolan who played the part on screen. With all that said, here from January 31, 1949 is the Lux Radio the presentation of street with no Name.

[Advertiser]

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[William Keeley]

Lux presents Hollywood Lever Brothers Co. The makers of Lux Flakes, bring you the Lux Radio Theater. Starring Mark Stevens, Richard Widmark and Lloyd Nolan. In the seat with no name, ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. William Keeley.

[Narrator]

Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. There's an invisible battle raging constantly throughout this land. Tonight's play is the story of one incident in this battle between a ruthless underworld and the relentless courage of the men of the FBI. The play is the street with no Name. And while directing the picture for 20th Fox, I had the privilege of working closely with the Director of the FBI, Mr. J. Edgar Hoover, and seeing firsthand the machine like precision of the Bureau. Tonight, we have the same three stars who were in the picture. Mark Stevens, Richard Widmar and Lloyd Nolan. Three accomplished players who bring the ring of cold truth to this fight between the champions of the law and the forces of evil. Of course, the housewives in our audience are waging a daily battle of their own these days, and many of them have chosen Lux Flakes as an ally. Their fight is to make nice things stay new looking longer. A perfect assignment for Lux Flakes. And our stars have their assignments. So the curtain rises on the street with no Name, starring Mark Stevens as Jean Cordell, Richard Widmark as Alex Stiles, and Lloyd Nolan as Inspector Briggs. Some months ago, late at night, a group of men entered the Meadowbrook Plaza, a typical roadhouse on the outskirts of Center City. They drew guns and their leader.

[Inspector Briggs]

This is a stick up.

[Alex Stiles]

Hands on the table and don't move. Come on, come on.

[Inspector Briggs]

Never up. All right, get up against the wall.

[Narrator]

Methodically, the men proceeded to line the guest up against the wall. Unfortunately, a woman became hysterical. She screamed. Victim Helen Jennings, housewife. Survivors husband and two children. The bullet that killed Mrs. Jennings was sent by the Center City Police to FBI headquarters in Washington, examined and carefully cataloged. Five days later, also in Center City, a guard was murdered while trying to prevent the holdup of a bank. Two murders within five days in the same city. This bank robbery, a violation of the federal statute, gave the FBI jurisdiction to come in actively on the case. It was assigned to Inspector George A. Briggs. Briggs went at once to Center City. He was met by Richard Atkins, special agent in charge of the FBI field office.

[Inspector Briggs]

Well, your hunch was right, Atkins. The bullet that killed the bank guard came from the same gun that killed the Jennings woman. A Luger automatic. Tell me you're getting any help from the police. Full cooperation. Homitz, he's the chief. And Lieutenant Stoller of the homicide squad. Yes, you. You mention a man named Demery? Oh, yes. A member of the city council, Chairman of the police advisory board. There's an election coming up. Oh. Funny how certain politicians discover there's a police department just before an election.

[Alex Stiles]

Yes.

[William Keeley]

If it's all right with you, Inspector.

[Inspector Briggs]

Suppose we go straight to police headquarters. The Chief Harmet, Lieutenant Staller and Councilman Demory.

[William Keeley]

Inspector Briggs.

[Inspector Briggs]

How you doing, gentlemen?

[Councilman Demery]

As a councilman, I'm certainly glad to see you, Inspector. We can use a little help right now. I guess Atkins has told you where we stand.

[Inspector Briggs]

I told him he can expect full cooperation, Chief.

[Councilman Demery]

Of course. There's no point trying to kid you, inspector. Things here are in a pretty bad way. Yes, crime has really moved into this town. Oh, now, don't misunderstand me, chief. Nobody's blaming you. You need more help than we've given you. The mayor and the council recognize that. But neither recriminations nor promises will give us results. And that's what we've got to get. So I. I don't mind saying I feel a lot better with Chief Briggs here. Well, as far as the police department's concerned, we're. Excuse me. Yes.

[Alex Stiles]

Good.

[Councilman Demery]

That's more like it. Bring him in. Well, maybe we've got our first break. And what does that mean? A couple of the boys just picked up a suspect. Looks good. They're bringing him in now.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, the suspect looked very good. Robert Danker, age 24. Tough guy, police record. But Danker refused to confess.

[Councilman Demery]

You better stop this double talk, Danker, and start giving us some facts. What time did you leave the Meadowbrook the night of the holdout?

[Inspector Briggs]

I told you, I was never in that clip joint. You're certain of that?

[William Keeley]

Sure, I'm certain.

[Inspector Briggs]

Well, then, what about this? This driver's license, State of California, made out to Robert Danker. Is it yours? Yeah.

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah, it's mine.

[Councilman Demery]

This license was found on the floor of the Meadowbrook right after Helen Jennings was murdered. And you tell us you weren't there.

[Inspector Briggs]

Ask the guy who swiped it how it got there. It's a frame. Who's framing? I'll take care of him myself. Look, if you're being framed, we want to help you. Use your head, Danke. Your best chance to clear yourself is to prove you were framed. I'll prove it my own way when I get out of here. That may not be so easy. Okay, I'll take my chances. You claim that you were in Chicago the night of the holdup. Yeah, I was. Well, have you got any proof of that? Who saw you? Look at the city. Nobody sees you in the city. Well, what about a room clerk, landlady? I didn't have no room.

[Councilman Demery]

Where'd you sleep that night?

[Inspector Briggs]

Under a new building going up near the freight yard. Danker, this jacket you're wearing. What's this spot? This red spot here near the shoulder? It's paint. Red paint. It come off a girder in the cellar of the building where I hold up. All right, Danker, take it off. It's paint, I tell you. What are you booking me on?

[Councilman Demery]

For the time being. Suspicion of robbery.

[Inspector Briggs]

Danker's jacket was sent immediately to the FBI laboratories for microscopic examination and chemical analysis. They teletyped their findings to our office in Center City. Lt. Staller was with the chief when I arrived at police headquarters. Well, what's the story, Inspector? Well, Stala, the red paint was paint. The red spot was paint. Danker is innocent.

[Councilman Demery]

Innocent?

[Inspector Briggs]

That's right, Chief. That girder was painted at 5:30 on the afternoon of the murder. Was quick drying paint, six to eight hours. The paint penetrated Danker's jacket just enough to show that it was almost dry at the time that Danker rubbed against it. And the kid was framed, huh?

[Councilman Demery]

With that driver's license.

[Inspector Briggs]

Now if we can get him to open up about that license when he lost it or if he lent it to somebody. Well, let's go talk to him.

[Councilman Demery]

Now, I. I've got to run along. Let me know how you make out, Staller.

[Inspector Briggs]

So we went to the jail, Lieutenant Staller and I. Only Danker wasn't there early that morning. He'd been released on bail. Bail furnished by the Personal Bonding Company. Their office was right across the street. That's right, gentlemen. $5,000 bail for one Robert Danker. You mind telling us who put up the money? Oh, no, not at all. It's right here on the card. John Smith. You know this Mr. Smith? Never met him before. In all my life. Wouldn't know him if I saw him again. And the address? Yes, but I think you'll find it.

[Narrator]

Just as phony as the name.

[Inspector Briggs]

They all do it here. A Hotel Conlon. All right, let's go, Stella. Glad to help you boys anytime at all. That night, at 20 minutes past 11, a body with numerous knife wounds was found on the main highway leading from Center City. It was identified as Robert Danker. I spent the next day with Atkins, our field agent, getting together certain essential information about Center City. I then returned to Washington. This case wasn't for me and it wasn't for Atkins. It would have to be handled by someone who had never been seen in Center City before. By someone uniquely qualified for a very tough assignment. Ten days later, I had picked him out. His name? Gene Cordell. I was going over the case with Cordell when Cy Gordon came into my office. Hello, Inspector. Tell me you got a job for me. Yeah. Pull up a chair, Si. Oh, I. I don't suppose you know Gene Cordell doesn't know me.

[Councilman Demery]

Who brought me into the Bureau, Kept me from being a wealthy lawyer. How are you, Si?

[Inspector Briggs]

Glad to see you again, Gene. Oh, I. I was just telling Gene about this Center City affair. Now, it's pretty obvious that the same gang that pulled a bank robbery also pulled a Meadowbrook job and framed Robert Danker. Gene, take a look at these maps. Now, we know that Danker's hangout was right here in this section.

[Councilman Demery]

Skid Row, huh?

[Inspector Briggs]

That's right. Skid Row. Here's Dock Street. Here's where Danker had a room. Royal Hotel. These are the various pool rooms and dives he was known to hang out in. And here's the Dock street gym. Gym, that's right up one floor from the street for prize fighters. The place to train a few sparring rings. It's also a hangout for hoodlums and gamblers. Since the war, at least half a dozen gangs have sprung up in this one area alone. And I'm convinced that one of them is responsible for the murders of the Jannings girl, the bank guard, and now Danke. Now, Gene, you're going to follow in Danke's footsteps. Drift into Center City. Sometime next week, get a room at the Royal Hotel and start trying to work yourself in. Si here is going with you.

[Councilman Demery]

I couldn't ask for anyone better.

[Inspector Briggs]

This is a one man job, Gene. Si will only be your contact. He'll get a room across the street from the Royal Hotel and put in a radio. And as soon as you learn anything, pass it on to him. Now, this danker was a tough kid who knew his way around. You ought to be his carbon copy. Now, I'll tell you exactly what I've got in mind. Well, that's how Gene Cordell went to Center City with Cy Gordon as his liaison. You're going to hear now what happened to him there. And I guess the best way to reconstruct it is to give you the facts just as they occurred. For two weeks, Gene Cordell, now using the name of George Manley, bummed around skid row, pool rooms, beer parlors, any place where he could be seen and accepted as a mug who knew his way around. Smart, talking tough. And then Gene started showing up in the Dock street gym watching the sparring match in Ring number two, Baby McGee.

[Councilman Demery]

Now going in again, Gudy at Dino.

[Inspector Briggs]

Ring number one, Kid Java. Boxing prepay. Gene Cordell knew a little something about boxing himself. He started to needle one of the fighters.

[Councilman Demery]

Hey, Gerino, step in with that left jab. What's the matter with you? Keep it up high. Okay, now shoot the right. Shoot it. Get some brains. You're telegraphing it.

[William Keeley]

Hey, Snope, dry up, will ya? Counter punch, kid. I told you counter punch.

[Councilman Demery]

Keep you right up to Beno. Blocked when he hooks.

[Inspector Briggs]

Block.

[William Keeley]

Now, luck buster. Take off.

[Councilman Demery]

You his trainer?

[William Keeley]

Yeah, I'm his trainer.

[Inspector Briggs]

What about it?

[Councilman Demery]

What are you training for? A quick dive?

[Inspector Briggs]

Come on.

[Councilman Demery]

Keep your left up, sucker. He'll tell you heels off.

[William Keeley]

All right. Wise guy.

[Councilman Demery]

Trying to help. Your boy could use a little sharpening.

[William Keeley]

Open your teeth once more and so help me out. While you.

[Alex Stiles]

He bought a ticket to come in and watch, didn't he?

[Inspector Briggs]

Well, that don't lay off.

[Alex Stiles]

Maybe you could show the kid a couple of things, huh?

[Councilman Demery]

Could be.

[Alex Stiles]

I'll give you five bucks if you can go one round.

[Councilman Demery]

Make it ten.

[Alex Stiles]

You got a deal. Hey, Matty, get the champ some gear. He's going in there with the kids.

[Inspector Briggs]

Gene went three rounds. He took something of a shellacking, but I guess he figured it was worth it. A few minutes later in the dressing room.

[Alex Stiles]

Not bad. Not bad.

[Councilman Demery]

Hey, you owe me 30 bucks.

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah, take it, sucker.

[Councilman Demery]

Okay, thanks. Hey, Alex Stout, huh?

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah. I'm Alex Stiles, huh?

[Councilman Demery]

Some of the boys, they. They point me out here. You own this place, huh?

[Alex Stiles]

You ever think of getting your teeth knocked in for more than just last?

[Councilman Demery]

Not anymore, I don't. Easier ways than that to pick up a quick buck.

[Alex Stiles]

Yes, for instance.

[Inspector Briggs]

Maybe.

[Councilman Demery]

I'll let you know when I'VE run through your 30.

[Inspector Briggs]

Around the corner from the Dock street gym is a penny arcade. Cordell and Gordon had picked it as one of their meeting places. Cordell was playing a pinball machine when Gordon wandered in and started playing the one next to him.

[Councilman Demery]

I think I've got a le.

[Inspector Briggs]

Go ahead.

[Councilman Demery]

Dark went through my wallet, lifted my Social Security card.

[Inspector Briggs]

Good. Fine. Not what you better do, is it?

[Councilman Demery]

Take it easy.

[Inspector Briggs]

Cops. Just a minute, dude.

[Councilman Demery]

Who, me? What's the matter?

[Inspector Briggs]

What's your name?

[Councilman Demery]

What's it to you?

[Inspector Briggs]

Come on, let's have it. Manley. George Manley? Yeah. You're under arrest.

[Councilman Demery]

Now wait a minute.

[Inspector Briggs]

What?

[Alex Stiles]

Next time you break into a jewelry.

[Inspector Briggs]

Store, don't leave your Social Security card. Let's go, Manly. This is Gordon calling wfbi. Gordon calling wfbi.

[Councilman Demery]

Come in, Gordon.

[Inspector Briggs]

Get this to Briggs. Washington. Cordell arrested early tonight. Suspicion of robbery. Tell Briggs Dankers shoes fit Cordell perfectly. That's all. Two days later, a routine request, one of approximately 26,000 received daily by the FBI in Washington came into the identification division from the police department of Center City. It asked for the complete file of a suspect under arrest for robbery. Name George Manley. To prevent exposing George Manley's real identity, we sent a fake criminal record back to the Center City police. And the following day by teletype Riggs from Atkins. Center City. George Manley released today on bail. Bail posted by John Smith. Bail posted by John Smith. Yes. What had happened to Robert Danker was happening to Agent Gene Cordell. Step by step. Cy Gordon was right. The shoes fit perfectly. Billy McClair is now going with Phil Giordano.

[Alex Stiles]

Hello, Georgie. Well, I haven't seen you around lately.

[Councilman Demery]

How'd you know my name?

[Alex Stiles]

Oh, I know lots of things, Georgie. In a way, yeah.

[Councilman Demery]

Weekend, the country, courtesy of the city? Yeah, something like that.

[Alex Stiles]

Hey, wait a minute. What's your hurry, Jordan? What goes style? Nothing. Nothing at all. I was just thinking that maybe we ought to get to know each other better. You busy tonight?

[Councilman Demery]

Not yet I ain't.

[Alex Stiles]

Then you're invited.

[Councilman Demery]

Where?

[Alex Stiles]

You'll find out later. Friend of mine will pick you up around 9:00. The Royal, isn't it? Crummy joint. See you, Jordan.

[Clare Marlowe]

Want a drink?

[William Keeley]

Coming.

[Alex Stiles]

Put it down. How about giving me a little? Kid, do you mind? You're breathing down my neck.

[Clare Marlowe]

My affectionate husband. What am I supposed to do around here? You playing the piano and all your high class friends playing poker.

[Alex Stiles]

Answer it.

[Clare Marlowe]

Well, what did you think I was gonna do? Hi, Chevy. Come on in. Oh, a stranger.

[Alex Stiles]

Hello, Georgie.

[Councilman Demery]

Hi.

[Inspector Briggs]

Anything else, boss?

[Alex Stiles]

No. Get yourself a hand in the poker game.

[Inspector Briggs]

Okay.

[Councilman Demery]

Hey, your friend don't talk much, does he, Chibi?

[Alex Stiles]

No. No, Georgie. None of my friends talk very much. Come on, I want to see you alone. Sit down. What's your racket?

[Councilman Demery]

What's yours?

[Alex Stiles]

Sweet job you pulled in Pittsburgh. Smart. No conviction.

[Inspector Briggs]

Pittsburgh?

[Councilman Demery]

I ain't never been to Pittsburgh.

[Alex Stiles]

No? How about San Diego? April 47, suspicion of armed robbery. No conviction.

[Councilman Demery]

You got me crossed.

[Alex Stiles]

How about Philly, last December? Grand larceny. No conviction. Miami, Richmond, Trenton. No conviction.

[Councilman Demery]

Look, what are you selling?

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah. Take a look at this report. A report direct from the FBI. Or should I say indirect. Through my pipeline here in Center City. In the police department.

[Inspector Briggs]

Georgie, I. I don't get it.

[Councilman Demery]

What goes.

[Alex Stiles]

I'm sorry about that weekend I gave you. But you see, I'm building an organization along scientific lines. I need men who know their way around, who can get by. That's why I screened.

[Councilman Demery]

You screen?

[Inspector Briggs]

Sure.

[Alex Stiles]

Just like in the army. I spot a guy who looks good, so what do I do? I get him framed. The cops check his record through the FBI. The report comes through, I get the report. My own idea takes connections, but I've got them.

[Councilman Demery]

Hey, this. This reporter me here ought to be.

[Alex Stiles]

Back in the police files, huh, Georgie? It'll get back.

[Councilman Demery]

Not bad.

[Alex Stiles]

Coming in, Georgie?

[Councilman Demery]

But if that's an offer, I'm sure grabbing it.

[Alex Stiles]

It's an officer.

[Councilman Demery]

Yeah, but wait a minute. What about my hearing? I'm supposed to shorten court Friday.

[Alex Stiles]

That'll be fixed. Forget it. Oh, there's just one little thing you'd better get straight, Georgie. I do the thinking. I give the orders.

[Councilman Demery]

That's okay by me, boss.

[Alex Stiles]

You know, I want to like you, Georgie. You catch on fast. Here. Buy yourself a closet full of clothes. I like my boys to look sharp.

[Councilman Demery]

WFBI Calling Gordon. WFBI Calling Gordon. Come in, WFBI Inspector Briggs just arrived from Washington.

[Inspector Briggs]

Good. Put him on. Hello. S. Nothing new from Gene, Huh? Oh, J. Inspector. It's going to be a lot harder to contact from now on. He's with the Styles gang now. Most of. I want to see him as soon as possible. Have you any idea how? Well, today's Thursday. Usual meeting place for Thursdays is at night. A lunch wagon near the Bay Flat ferry leaves at 10:30. Suppose you're on that ferry, inspector. I'll try to have him join you. Good. And I'll be on the ferry. Incidentally, I'm getting awful tired Looking like a bum, living like a bum, acting like a bum. You keep your shirt on and arrange that meeting for me.

[Councilman Demery]

What'll it say, mister? Coffee and out of donuts.

[Inspector Briggs]

Okay.

[Councilman Demery]

Give me some pie.

[Clare Marlowe]

Out of pie.

[Inspector Briggs]

Toast.

[Councilman Demery]

You won't get an argument out of me, honey. Toast.

[Inspector Briggs]

Evening.

[Clare Marlowe]

Coffee?

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah, a hamburger with everything.

[Councilman Demery]

Okay.

[Inspector Briggs]

I miss. When's the next ferry?

[Clare Marlowe]

Every hour on the half hour. And by God, the White one. Utterance House.

[Councilman Demery]

Hey, never mind that toast, lady. I. I just remembered something.

[Inspector Briggs]

What's the matter with him? Hold the toast, Eddie.

[Clare Marlowe]

We lost one.

[Inspector Briggs]

By the time the ferry returned to Center City that night, Gene had convinced me that Stiles gang was the one we were after. The important thing now was to secure concrete evidence and ferret out who in the police department was making our records available to Alex Stiles. I saw Gene leave the ferry and disappear up the street heading in the direction of the Royal Hotel. Kind of late, ain't you, Manly Chibby?

[Councilman Demery]

Yeah, what's the idea?

[Inspector Briggs]

Where you been, Georgie?

[Councilman Demery]

Took a ferry across the river.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah, I was telling you, most of the night. What'd you take a ferry for? Ella gets kind of curious about a new boy. Likes to know what they do with their spare time. What'd you take a ferry for?

[Councilman Demery]

You trying to scare me with that knife put away?

[Inspector Briggs]

I said, what'd you take a fairy for? What's it to you what you're trying to pull?

[Councilman Demery]

Look, you got a long nose, Shippy. Why don't you keep to yourself?

[Inspector Briggs]

Look, wise guy, from now on you got no business. It ain't Alex business.

[Councilman Demery]

You mean I gotta share my special phone numbers with you guys?

[Alex Stiles]

The dame.

[Inspector Briggs]

So that was it. You know, I. I kind of figured that. Well, the boss just wanted to play it safe. What's the matter with the dames this.

[Councilman Demery]

Side of the river? Well, for one thing, too much competition.

[Inspector Briggs]

Be at Alex apartment tomorrow afternoon at 2:00. I think maybe something's up. That's all, George. Gordon calling wsbi. Gordon calling wsbi.

[Councilman Demery]

Come in, Court.

[Inspector Briggs]

Get this to Inspector Briggs right away. The Stiles gang is planning a hold up tonight. This is Briggs. Die where and when? There was no further information. Cordell unable to make usual contact this afternoon. I passed him on the street. He couldn't stop. He had time to tell me that much. No more. Is he contacting you again? It began. I'm watching his room now across the street. He isn't there. He comes back before tonight. I may be able to give you something. Okay, S. Thanks. We'll be waiting. Atkins better alert all the men. We may be needing them tonight.

[Narrator]

And now, here's our Hollywood Hollywood Reporter, Libby Collins. May I say, Libby, how charming you looked at the premiere of Command Decision.

[Clare Marlowe]

Why, thank you, Mr. Keeley. But the men took the spotlight. You know, I think that's one of the most moving stories to come out of World War II.

[Narrator]

Having been in the Air Force myself, I found it especially interesting. Metro Golden Mayor has done a masterly job of adapting it from the New York stage hit. I'm delighted they released it in time to qualify for the 1948 Academy Awards.

[Clare Marlowe]

Isn't Clark Gable magnificent as the forceful General Dennis? The role is made to order for him.

[Narrator]

A brilliant job of casting all round. Walter Pigeon is tremendously effective as another Air Force general. Van Johnson provides the picture with its lighter moments with his portrayal of the amiably disillusioned sergeant. And Brian Donlevy is perfect as General Cliff Garnett.

[Clare Marlowe]

With such a terrific all male cast, I didn't even miss the girls. But I wish I had been on the set of Command Decision to pick.

[William Keeley]

Up a few souvenirs like the Friars nylon scarves.

[Clare Marlowe]

Oh, I can see, John, you remember how the girls loved to get them during the war. They make wonderful blouses and nylon luxes beautifully.

[William Keeley]

Especially with tiny diamonds of lux. They're so fast, they burst into sud the instant water touches them. Make richer suds too. That last and last.

[Clare Marlowe]

Another nice thing about nylon blouses and sweaters, they don't need ironing.

[William Keeley]

It's easy to keep all nice washables lovely longer with the new tiny diamonds of lux. Tests show that colors stay lovely up to three times as long with luxe flakes care.

[Clare Marlowe]

That's why it's foolish to risk fading or damage from wrong Washington methods. Do you know makers of nice washables Recommend Lux Flakes 33 to 1. They're so gentle and safe.

[William Keeley]

Now our producer, William Keeley.

[Narrator]

Act 2 of the street with no Name. Starring Mark Stevens as Gene Cordell, Richard Widmark as Alex Styles and Lloyd Nolan as Inspector Break.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, Gene had succeeded in getting word to us that the Alex Stiles gang was preparing to pull another job. But what job? We had to have the details all afternoon. Cy Gordon from his room across the street kept his eyes glued on Gene's window. But the shade remained up, which meant Gene was out. He was with the Stiles gang in Alex Stiles Apart. All right, all right. That's how we're gonna pull this job.

[Alex Stiles]

And just to make sure you Guys are as smart as you think you are. Play it back for me.

[Cy Gordon]

Okay, 25 after 10, I drive up with you to the gate of the Willard Mansion. You're in the back seat all dressed up in a monkey suit.

[Alex Stiles]

Get on with it, Maddie.

[Cy Gordon]

Well, a guy at the gate takes us for one of the invited characters. So he lets us through. And once through the gate, I get out of the car and boing, rock him to sleep.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay, come on, come on.

[Inspector Briggs]

I pull in with car number two and keep the motor running. Same hand. The third car, just a third car pulls in. I'm cutting the wires to switch box. Then I start whistling. And when Whitey whistles, me and Mutt get out of the car and go.

[Councilman Demery]

In the back door to the kitchen.

[Inspector Briggs]

All right, stand by and keep the motor running. At 10:30, five minutes later, Monk, Georgie, me and you, we're going in through the front.

[Alex Stiles]

All right, what's next?

[Councilman Demery]

Oh, me, I cover him blind.

[Alex Stiles]

Look, are you with us or some dame?

[Inspector Briggs]

Shut up.

[Alex Stiles]

I'm right with you. You keep that head of yours where it belongs or some cop will blow it off. Pretty boy.

[Cy Gordon]

Yeah, you ain't kidding.

[Alex Stiles]

Nobody asked you. All right, we head for the banquet room. I line them up, face the right and left walls.

[Inspector Briggs]

I keep them covered. I take them on the left wall, work them over for whatever they got.

[Councilman Demery]

I do the same thing on the right wall.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay, now for the getaway.

[Inspector Briggs]

Excuse me.

[Councilman Demery]

And me, we carry the junk out.

[Alex Stiles]

I cover you, right.

[Cy Gordon]

I head north on Highway 7.

[Alex Stiles]

We meet back here. Any questions?

[Narrator]

No.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay, Whitey, Nick, Mutts, wipe three cars, bring them around back at the gym. Now, everybody blow. Go on, get something to eat. We take off at 10 o'clock, shop.

[Councilman Demery]

Nice going, General.

[Alex Stiles]

Well, what's the use of having a war, Georgie, if you don't learn from it?

[Councilman Demery]

Hey, I'll need a gun.

[Alex Stiles]

You get a gun, Georgie.

[Inspector Briggs]

Later.

[Councilman Demery]

Okay, see you 10 o'clock. Bye.

[Clare Marlowe]

Fellas not leaving already?

[Alex Stiles]

Yes, they're leaving already. Go on, boys, shove off.

[Clare Marlowe]

Why don't you let him around here and clean up this mess? Beer bottle, cigarette butts. Looks like they've been raised in a trough.

[Alex Stiles]

You don't like it?

[Clare Marlowe]

Well, if the maid was here, she'd really blow a top. Gonna be busy tonight?

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah, for a while.

[Clare Marlowe]

You know, I read where they got gold faucets in every bathroom. See, they must be free with money. I heard Mrs. Willard has a couple.

[Alex Stiles]

Where did you hear that name? Who said anything about Willard?

[Clare Marlowe]

What? I heard Matty said the Willard man.

[Alex Stiles]

Said, I told you never to poke your nose into my business.

[Clare Marlowe]

Come on, cut it out. Who do you think you're shoving around?

[Alex Stiles]

I don't. Take it, you open your trunk.

[Clare Marlowe]

I will. You ever touch me again, I swear I will.

[Councilman Demery]

Shut up.

[Clare Marlowe]

I hope they get you tonight. Yeah, I hope they do for me.

[Alex Stiles]

Royal Hotel.

[Inspector Briggs]

Some dump. Well, why don't you move out of.

[Alex Stiles]

This free bag, George?

[Councilman Demery]

Well, maybe after tonight I'll be able to afford something better. Got time, Matty?

[Cy Gordon]

10 minutes to 10. What you want to go to your room for?

[Councilman Demery]

You hear what Alex said? Better if we break it up and show up behind the gym one by one.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah, Drop me off around a block, Mike.

[Cy Gordon]

Okay. See you in 10 minutes, George.

[Councilman Demery]

Okay.

[Inspector Briggs]

Gordon calling WSBI. Gordon calling WSBI. Come in, Gordon. This is Briggs. James. In his room, Inspector. He just signaled me to follow him. Follow him? A little risky, isn't it? Can you stay there till you hear for me? I think I'd better stay here. I'll get back to you as soon as I can. Gordon radioed back a few minutes later. He had followed Gene down Dock Street. At the corner, Gene stopped to light a cigarette. He threw the book of matches into the gutter and disappeared around the corner. On the matchbook was a message. Stiles gang hitting Willard Mansion about 10:30 tonight. A few minutes later, I was at the Center City Police Headquarters.

[Councilman Demery]

Well, my men are on their way there, Inspector. The Willard Mansion. How'd you get this tip?

[Inspector Briggs]

I'll tell you all about it later, Chief.

[Councilman Demery]

We'll surround the house away. Any luck, we'll get every last one of them.

[Inspector Briggs]

Well, if we're all set, let's get out of here. I got away as soon as I could, Keith.

[Councilman Demery]

I appreciate your letting me in on this.

[Inspector Briggs]

Good evening, Inspector.

[Councilman Demery]

Well, you wanted me to keep you posted, Mr. Demery. Well, we're ready to leave.

[Inspector Briggs]

I've got my own car. Is that all right if Lt. Stoller comes with me?

[Councilman Demery]

By all means, take the bridge route.

[William Keeley]

Stoller.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, sir.

[Councilman Demery]

We'll go belay of Agnes Avenue. Demery. Oh, in your car. Less conspicuous. Better leave now, Inspector. We'll follow in a minute.

[Cy Gordon]

Now you see why we met at the gym, huh, Georgie?

[Councilman Demery]

How do you like this, Manny? Regular arsenal.

[Cy Gordon]

Yeah, the boss got everything here from tear gas and machine guns. All nice and handy in the basement under the.

[Inspector Briggs]

Come on, you guys. Get what you need and clear out.

[Cy Gordon]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Inspector Briggs]

Come on.

[Councilman Demery]

Say, ain't it kind of risky, Maddie? All these guns so close to home?

[Cy Gordon]

Risky Who'd think to look down here? Go on, Georgie. Pick yourself a boom boom.

[Councilman Demery]

I'm taking this one. Order some honey beluga.

[Inspector Briggs]

Lay off, Georgie. That's the boss's gun.

[Cy Gordon]

Yeah. You like Lugers? Take this one.

[Councilman Demery]

Okay, swell.

[Alex Stiles]

Answer the phone, will you?

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah, yeah, sure, Boss. Yeah, he's busy. Okay. Hang on. For you.

[William Keeley]

Boss says it's important.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay. Get those guys out of that room. Lock it up. Hello? What?

[William Keeley]

Guess we're about set.

[Inspector Briggs]

You want to check over anything? It's off.

[Alex Stiles]

The job's off.

[Inspector Briggs]

What do you mean, it's off?

[Alex Stiles]

Chevy, Tell the boys to dump those cars they grab. Turn in their guns and beat it. Go on, beat it.

[Inspector Briggs]

Hey, what happened?

[Cy Gordon]

What do you mean, beat it?

[Councilman Demery]

What's up, Chibi?

[Inspector Briggs]

Trouble. Don't ask questions. Go on, start spreading.

[Councilman Demery]

Got the entire state surrounded, Inspector. Guess all we can do now is sit in the car and wait.

[Inspector Briggs]

Chief Hormitz get here, Lieutenant?

[Councilman Demery]

Yeah, he and Mr. Demry. Behind those trees near the service quarters.

[Alex Stiles]

Krza to Inspector Briggs.

[Inspector Briggs]

Krza to Inspector Briggs.

[Councilman Demery]

It's headquarters.

[Inspector Briggs]

This is Briggs. Go ahead, Inspector Briggs. Call your office. 10:15pm KRZA. Over. This is Briggs calling WFBI. Come in, WFBI.

[Councilman Demery]

This is WFBI.

[Inspector Briggs]

Inspector Briggs.

[Councilman Demery]

Stand by for direct message from Gordon.

[Inspector Briggs]

Go ahead. This is Gordon. Received urgent message from Gene. Family will not appear. Plans canceled. Family warned you were waiting for him. Over. Thanks. Stand by. Well, Staller? I'm not going to show. Come on, let's break the bad news to the chief.

[Councilman Demery]

You're sure of this, Inspector? But what do you suppose happened?

[Inspector Briggs]

Stiles just decided not to show up?

[Councilman Demery]

Well, it's not 10:30 yet. Suppose we wait a while, just in case.

[Inspector Briggs]

Be a waste of time. Mr. Demory. They won't be here.

[Councilman Demery]

I'd still like to know why.

[Inspector Briggs]

I wish I knew.

[Clare Marlowe]

Alex. What's the matter? Home kind of early, aren't you? What happened?

[Alex Stiles]

I'll tell you what happened. Oh.

[William Keeley]

Tipped the cops, didn't you?

[Inspector Briggs]

Oh, no.

[Clare Marlowe]

No, I didn't. Honest, I didn't.

[Alex Stiles]

Did you hope they'd get me, didn't you? So you tipped off.

[Inspector Briggs]

You tipped.

[Clare Marlowe]

Oh, no, Alex. No, I swear.

[Inspector Briggs]

Did you tip Tom? You tipped off.

[Councilman Demery]

You tipped him. Sigh. Psy. Open up. Open up. It's Gene.

[Inspector Briggs]

Gene. What the devil you doing here?

[Councilman Demery]

It's okay. After the holdup fell through, Stiles told us to disappear. I'm meeting some of them later on at the nightclub. What'd you come here for? Look, there's a storeroom in the basement of Dock Street Gym, Styles arsenal. I spotted his gun there early tonight. A Luger on the job washed out. Styles put his gun back. That's where I've just been. I broke in the room.

[Inspector Briggs]

You got his gun?

[Councilman Demery]

No, but I got a sample from it. I brought along a Luger ammunition clip, loaded Styles gun and fired a shot into a bale of newspapers. Now, here's the slug. Get it to Inspector Briggs. The slug can tell us if it was Styles gun to kill the Jennings woman and the bank guard.

[Alex Stiles]

That's fine.

[Inspector Briggs]

That's great. But you know our setup. What if somebody saw you come here?

[Councilman Demery]

I had to take a chance. Anyway, I think I've already been spotted.

[Inspector Briggs]

You what?

[Councilman Demery]

Just after I fired the shot, somebody came in. The basement was dark. I got away, but he may have seen me. Now you know I had to come.

[Inspector Briggs]

Here, get out of town. I'll tell Briggs.

[Councilman Demery]

Look, if I disappear, they'll know it was me. Take my chances. I figured they're pretty good. Don't worry about me. Just get this slug to Inspector Briggs.

[Inspector Briggs]

As soon as you can. The bullet fired from Stiles gun was on its way to Washington on the midnight plane. At 2am I heard again from Cy Gordon. The light was on in Gene's room at the Hotel Royal. Whoever had seen him in the basement of the Dock Street Gym undoubtedly had failed to recognize him. But that wasn't all. That happened that night in a fashionable section of Center City. Mr. Demery had a late visitor. All right, Styles.

[Councilman Demery]

What's so important that it couldn't wait till morning? And coming into my home?

[Alex Stiles]

The tip off, Mr. Demery. The tip off to the cops about the Willard Mansion job. Where'd it come from?

[Councilman Demery]

The FBI. Lucky for you I was around. Take my advice, Stiles, and lay off for a while.

[Alex Stiles]

They've got nothing on me. But maybe I've got something on them.

[Councilman Demery]

What do you mean?

[Alex Stiles]

This gun here. Somebody just busted into my arsenal, shot it off tonight.

[Inspector Briggs]

But why?

[Councilman Demery]

What for?

[Alex Stiles]

What do you think? Bright boys trying to match the bullet with a couple of souvenirs I left behind in the Meadow Brook in that bank. Bright boys thinking only they can play at being cops. Okay, okay. You're taking this gun dimmery, you're getting the fingerprints off it. The way I figure, it may be the same rat who tipped them tonight shot it off.

[Councilman Demery]

You got any ideas?

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah, I got eight ideas. It's got to be somebody in my outfit. I saw him running out of the basement. Nobody else knew where that arsenal was hidden.

[Councilman Demery]

You better get it out of there fast.

[Alex Stiles]

I'm way ahead of you, Mr. Demery. When do I get the dope on whose prints are on this Louvre?

[Councilman Demery]

Tomorrow, maybe. I. I'll call you.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay. And don't let that gun out of your sight.

[Councilman Demery]

I've got Gordon on the radio. Inspector.

[Inspector Briggs]

Oh, thanks, Bert. Go ahead. What's the latest on Gene Sigh? Well, everything's quiet. I stood behind him in the line at the cafeteria for breakfast at 10 o'clock. He went to the usual place. Dock Street Gym, I imagine. Still there. I've got some news for you. Yeah? Dick Atkins followed Alex Stiles car late last night. Stiles drove to a house on Oak Street. We just checked it. The house is the residence of City Councilman Demory. Holy smoke. Yeah, there's nothing we can do yet. Not till we hear from Washington about that bullet. But pass the news on to Jean when he gets back. I'd really like to know what's going on in that Dock Street, Jim.

[William Keeley]

Well, it's been open.

[Inspector Briggs]

Oh, hello, boss. You.

[Councilman Demery]

Hey. You want we should clear out of your office, boss?

[Cy Gordon]

Just killing time. I like little poker game.

[Alex Stiles]

Stay where you are.

[Cy Gordon]

Anybody falls, not yet.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay.

[Councilman Demery]

Too bad about last night, Alec.

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah, Georgie, too bad.

[Councilman Demery]

My first job with the outfit.

[Alex Stiles]

Pizzles.

[Cy Gordon]

You. You want to tell us what happened?

[Alex Stiles]

Just a little change of plans.

[Cy Gordon]

I sure could have used that basket of lettuce. That blonde of mine.

[Alex Stiles]

I'm sick of you and your dames.

[Inspector Briggs]

For you, boss. Telephone.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay, Alex.

[Councilman Demery]

Short running. What's eating him?

[Cy Gordon]

Ah, he's always burning. Georgie.

[Clare Marlowe]

Good job last night.

[Cy Gordon]

Come on, let's get back to the game.

[Alex Stiles]

This is Stiles.

[Inspector Briggs]

You know someone by the name of George Manley?

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah.

[Inspector Briggs]

You shouldn't.

[Alex Stiles]

I'll see that he gets your message. What about the package?

[Inspector Briggs]

I can get it back to you this afternoon.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay. Meet me at 4 in usual place. Chevy.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah?

[Alex Stiles]

Here's 500 bucks. Go over to the apartment. Give it to my wife. Yeah.

[Inspector Briggs]

What is it, her birthday?

[Alex Stiles]

Just tell her I'm sorry for last night. I made a mistake. Okay. And then come back. I found out what went wrong with the Willow job. Georgie. Georgie Manley.

[Councilman Demery]

Take it easy.

[Inspector Briggs]

He's looking this way.

[Alex Stiles]

Keep him on tap. We'll take care of Georgie tonight.

[William Keeley]

We pause now for station identification. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Narrator]

Our stars will return with Act 3 of the street with no Name in a moment. Tonight we have a pixie for our guest, pretty young Betty Lynn, for whom 20th Century Fox predicts the future as.

[Inspector Briggs]

Bright as her hair.

[Narrator]

I Understand, Betty, that you took a special interest in the filming of a letter to three wives.

[Clare Marlowe]

That's right, Mr. Keely. I'm trying to decide whether to be sophisticated like Linda Darnell or the Designing Female, eh? Or maybe like Jean Crane, who's awfully sweet, or. Or Anne Southern, who plays a career wife.

[Narrator]

Did you guess which one of the three husbands had strays?

[Clare Marlowe]

Oh, no. The ending was a terrific success. Surprise. But I did notice that all the clothes were wonderfully in character, even the stockings. All the girls wore beautiful sheer nylons, of course, but Linda's were high fashion shades like emerald and burgundy.

[William Keeley]

But just as easy to care for with tiny diamonds of luxe.

[Clare Marlowe]

That's what the wardrobe mistress told me, Mr. Kennedy.

[William Keeley]

It pays because nylons washed with luxe flakes last twice as long. These tiny diamonds of lux are a real triumph of the world famous Lever laboratory. They're so sheer, they burst into suds the instant water touches them. And the suds are so rich, they last and last.

[Clare Marlowe]

I discovered that myself.

[William Keeley]

It's foolish to risk strong soaps or rubbing with cake soap because those things make stockings run quickly. Strain tests prove it. In fact, over 90% of the makers of stockings recommend luxe flakes with lux care. It's just like getting an extra pair of stockings every time you buy a pair. Thank you for coming tonight, Betty Lynn.

[Clare Marlowe]

Thank you.

[William Keeley]

We return you now to William Keeley.

[Narrator]

The curtain rises on the third act of the street with no Name, starring Mark Stevens as Gene Cordell, Richard Widmark as Alex Stiles and Lloyd Nolan as Inspector Brake.

[Inspector Briggs]

Here's where we stood the day after the holdup of the Willard mansion had failed to materialize. Gene Cordell, by winning a daring gamble, had secured a bullet fired from Alex Stiles gun which, when we got our report, might send Stiles to the electric chair. We had also succeeded in establishing an association between Stiles and Councilman Demery. Toward the middle of the afternoon, I got a phone call from our local agent, Dick Atkins. I've been tailing Demery all day, Inspector. Across the bay now in Salem. Half an hour ago, Demory registered in a hotel. And just now Alex Stiles went up to his room. Well, keep watching him. There's nothing new here. But with Demery out of the way for a while, I'll go and see Chief Harmatt. Okay, I'll keep composing. Yes, by now we knew considerable. But what we did not know was that Alex Stiles in that hotel room was already planning his fourth murder.

[Alex Stiles]

The fingerprints on my gun belong to Georgie, eh, Mr. Demery?

[Inspector Briggs]

That's right. Here.

[Councilman Demery]

Here's your gun back.

[Alex Stiles]

Well, you know you're gonna get a bonus for this, Mr. Demery. Yes, sir. I'm gonna vote you a great big bonus.

[Councilman Demery]

Where's it coming from? With a stoolie in your outfit, they've.

[Inspector Briggs]

Got you stopped cold.

[Alex Stiles]

All we've got to do is chop the stoolie and we're in business again.

[Councilman Demery]

You don't know when to quit, do you, Stiles? Well, go ahead, kill Manley.

[Inspector Briggs]

Give the FBI an engraved invitation to.

[Councilman Demery]

Put you in the chair.

[Alex Stiles]

Who said I was gonna kill him? No, no, no. That's where you come in, Mr. Demery.

[Councilman Demery]

You're out of your mind.

[Alex Stiles]

You're a great big hero tomorrow. Yes, sir, your name will be all over the front pages. Demery gets armed robber. Mayor's Little man wins big police medal.

[Inspector Briggs]

If you think you can make real.

[Alex Stiles]

Life like this, the cops will do the killing.

[Inspector Briggs]

Now, listen.

[Alex Stiles]

No, you listen. I kicked in plenty when I didn't need you. Always around for the payoff, weren't you? Well, you're sticking around for this payoff, too. So sit down. Come on, sit down. You got a job to do tonight. Here's where you come in. About three miles out of Center City, there's a factory, the Anderson Manufacturing Company. I've had it cased for weeks. And tonight, Georgie's gonna be on hand when a couple of us open up this city.

[Inspector Briggs]

Oh, I thought I'd drop over and have a little talk with you, Chief. Tell me, where did Mr. Demery go after we left the Willard place last night?

[Councilman Demery]

I don't know. I suppose he went home.

[Inspector Briggs]

Do you know where he lives?

[Councilman Demery]

Oak Street, I believe. I don't know the exact number offhand, but I could.

[Inspector Briggs]

Where Alex Stiles went calling at about 1:00 last night? That's right. One of our agents saw him walk in. What? Before we left here last night to make that raid, were you with Emery all the time?

[Councilman Demery]

Why, yes, I'm sure I was. No, wait. I remember now. He went down the hall for a moment. The Police advisory board office.

[Inspector Briggs]

Five minutes before 10, Stiles received a phone call. Subsequently, the Willard job was called off.

[Councilman Demery]

Damn, Mariah, I can't believe it.

[Inspector Briggs]

We've been checking his bank deposits roughly 20 times in excess of his salary. And that's not all. Here, take a look at this.

[Councilman Demery]

What is it?

[Inspector Briggs]

The report from our identifications division in Washington. Requests from your police department for the records of these men. Every one of them is a member of Stiles gang. Now, these records, supplied by us, were then mail available, made available to Stiles. He used them up to check up on prospective gang members.

[Councilman Demery]

Excuse me.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, sir.

[Councilman Demery]

Get hold of Sergeant Bryan. Have him come in.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, sir.

[Councilman Demery]

Try and run a police department with stuff like this going on. No wonder we bang our heads against a stone wall every time we. Oh, come in. Sam, it's Inspector Briggs of the FBI. Sergeant Bryant.

[Inspector Briggs]

How do you do, Sergeant?

[Councilman Demery]

Sam, take a look at this report. Have you ever had a request from anyone here for the records of these men?

[Inspector Briggs]

I get so many requests, sir. Let me see. Mayor's one. I checked this morning. George Manley. This morning I lifted one of his fingerprints from a gun. Was that gun a Luger? Yes, sir. Who asked you to check it? Mr. Demery.

[Councilman Demery]

Demery.

[Inspector Briggs]

Were Manleys the only prints you lifted from that gun? No. There are a couple of other fragmentary prints. I identified them as Alex Stiles. Thanks, Sergeant. That's all. Yes. Get me the radio room. I'll hold on. Yes, radio room. Get me WFBI Right away. I'll explain this in just a minute, Chief. KRZA calling wfbi. KRZA calling wfbi.

[Alex Stiles]

Come in.

[Inspector Briggs]

This is wfbi. Go ahead. Stand by. Go ahead, sir. Thanks. This is Briggs. Get me Gordon. Yes, sir. WFBI calling Gordon. WFBI calling Gordon.

[Councilman Demery]

Come in.

[Inspector Briggs]

This is Gordon. Go ahead, Inspector Sigh. Tell Cortel to get out immediately. He's in great danger. Gene's in his room now, but he's got a couple of visitor sections. See him through the window? There's no rough stuff. They're just talking. You've got to get a hold of him. Si. If he isn't alone, you'd better telephone. What if they want to know who's calling? Well, he'll have to talk his way out of it. We've got to warn him. Call the hotel. Tell the fella at the Destin to get Gene on the phone. Let me know what happens. I'll be back at the office in 15 minutes. Right. I'm sorry, Chief, but that couldn't wait. Cordell's one of our agents. He's been doing undercover work in the Stiles gang under the name of George Manley.

[Councilman Demery]

That certainly ties in memory. Well, what can I do to help?

[Inspector Briggs]

Well, for the moment, nothing. They were expecting word from Washington. Any minute they may give us a green light to move in on the Styles gang. Why don't you come with me? I'd like to. You've just been changing your clothes. Huh, Georgie?

[Councilman Demery]

Well, you know how it is. Boss said he always likes his boys look sharp. Hey, what pitch?

[Alex Stiles]

Yes.

[Inspector Briggs]

Alec told me and Maddie to pay a little call. Just to tell you there's a little job on for tonight.

[Councilman Demery]

Yeah?

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah. Want it on the phone? Well, he says you want it on the phone.

[Councilman Demery]

Tell him I'm tied up.

[Inspector Briggs]

Tied up? Okay.

[Alex Stiles]

Danger.

[Inspector Briggs]

You sure?

[Councilman Demery]

Who else would know where to get me?

[Inspector Briggs]

I don't know.

[Councilman Demery]

Yeah. Now what's the deal?

[Inspector Briggs]

The boss will tell us when we get there. We got a car downstairs.

[Alex Stiles]

Let's go.

[Councilman Demery]

Georgie.

[Inspector Briggs]

Tactic. Yes, sir. FBI. Follow that gray car, quick. Yes, sir.

[Councilman Demery]

It's been 20 minutes since you spoke to Gordon, inspector. How long would it take him to phone?

[Inspector Briggs]

Well, not 20 minutes, Dick. That's a cinch.

[Councilman Demery]

Something's up, inspector. Something we don't know about.

[Inspector Briggs]

There's nothing to do unless we telepe, sir. Washington. Let me get there, Ray. Test bullet from Luger. 7.65 millimeter barrel marking identical with murder. Bullets removed from victims. Meadow, Brook and back murders. Arrest Stiles gang and Demery immediately. Signed, Hoover. This is it, Dick. Get the men ready. Telephone for Chief Howmatch. You can take it there, sir.

[Councilman Demery]

For me? Thanks. Hello? What's that? How long ago? Okay. That was Lt. Staller when he came on duty. They told him Demory left headquarters about 10 minutes ago with a nice detail. He had some hot tip about a robbery.

[Inspector Briggs]

Where?

[Councilman Demery]

Nobody seems to know where. Let me try you a short way.

[Inspector Briggs]

Right there. That room in there.

[Councilman Demery]

I'll call a squad car.

[Inspector Briggs]

Hello? Yes. Yes, this is the FBI.

[William Keeley]

Who?

[Councilman Demery]

Just a moment.

[Inspector Briggs]

For you.

[Councilman Demery]

Inspectors and cab drivers.

[Inspector Briggs]

Hello? Yes, this is Briggs. What message? Anderson Manufacturing Company. Thank you. Thank you very much. The message from Gordon. He took a cab, tailed Gene Cordell and two of the gang to the Anderson Manufacturing Company. They've got a plant out on Fraser roof. All right, then, let's go.

[Alex Stiles]

Right in here, Georgie. The cashier's office. And there's the safe. Sweet job, huh?

[Councilman Demery]

That looks like a lead pipe cinch.

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah. Pull this one right out of the air. How you doing with the safe, Maddie?

[Councilman Demery]

Helping. You mean. They furnish you with a combination?

[Alex Stiles]

I told you I had connections, Georgie. All kinds of connections.

[Councilman Demery]

Where's Chippy been?

[Alex Stiles]

He spotted some guy following him. He's just been downstairs to take care of it.

[Councilman Demery]

Watchman, Esther.

[Alex Stiles]

Shitty.

[Inspector Briggs]

Okay, boss.

[Alex Stiles]

Who was it?

[Inspector Briggs]

I don't know.

[Alex Stiles]

Watchman, I guess. Don't matter now. Okay. Put the knife away. Get over to that window. Got the cash yet, Maddie?

[Cy Gordon]

I think this Is all. Some bonds, too.

[Alex Stiles]

Just the cash. AI, Georgie, it's for you. All yours.

[Councilman Demery]

I don't get it, honey.

[Alex Stiles]

Go ahead, take it. No cuts for anybody. All yours. And this is one job that'll never get tipped off.

[Inspector Briggs]

Bullet.

[Councilman Demery]

George, what are you talking about?

[Alex Stiles]

Oh, you mean you haven't heard? Well, somebody did a little singing to the FBI. Told him, like, where I kept my gun. Like when we were going to pull the Willard job. Yeah. Georgie, we picked up a pigeon. Anything coming down the road, Chevy? Nothing yet, boy. Keep looking. Now, there's only one smart way to get rid of this foolie, Georgie. And that's to let the cops bump them off. I anticipate you. You see, Georgie, any minute now a squad of cops will be coming up those stairs. And guess who they're gonna find here at the safe. And guess who they're gonna pump full of slugs. Thinking they're knocking off a safecracker.

[Inspector Briggs]

They're turning it off a highway.

[Alex Stiles]

And who do you suppose is bringing the cops, Georgie? My number one connection in the police department. We worked it out together. They come from down there. We go out to fire escape.

[Councilman Demery]

You'll never get away with this.

[Alex Stiles]

Okay, Maddie, take care of the Struli. No, not in the face. Don't mark him up.

[William Keeley]

They're here, boy.

[Councilman Demery]

Get going, Maddie.

[Inspector Briggs]

The fire escapes.

[Councilman Demery]

Prop him up. City.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yeah, against the safe.

[Alex Stiles]

That's it.

[Inspector Briggs]

He fell to the floor again.

[Councilman Demery]

All right, put him back.

[Inspector Briggs]

But the cops.

[Councilman Demery]

Get back there and put him up against that safe.

[Inspector Briggs]

FBI. What's up, officer? Robbery. Cashier's office on the second floor. Who are those men over there? Mr. Demory and some detectives. They're covering the fire escape. You'll find the others upstairs. Let's get up there. I can. Sergeant. Here.

[Clare Marlowe]

Tom.

[Inspector Briggs]

Bending over in front of the safe. He dead all right, Inspector. Who is he?

[Narrator]

Styled, boys.

[Inspector Briggs]

They call him Shivy. Was he the only one who was in here, Sergeant? There was someone else, I'm sure. The room was dark. Just the light from the corridor. The other one seemed to be on the floor. Crawled behind the desk and got away. Probably still in the factory somewhere.

[Councilman Demery]

Inspectors.

[Inspector Briggs]

In here, Atkins. Any sign of Gene?

[William Keeley]

No, but I just found Cy Gordon. He's been nice. He's just coming to.

[Inspector Briggs]

All right. You stay with him, Atkins. Get somebody to help you. I'm gonna look for Gene. Inspector, there's a couple of men over there near the dynamo.

[Councilman Demery]

Inspector, brakes.

[Inspector Briggs]

This way.

[Councilman Demery]

Inspect your brakes.

[Inspector Briggs]

Gene, it's Styles. He's getting away. The pirates.

[Councilman Demery]

Watch yourselves, men. No shots up there. Look, Mr. Demery, I still think a.

[Inspector Briggs]

Couple of us ought to cover that freight entrance. You'll stay right here.

[Councilman Demery]

Get back.

[Inspector Briggs]

That door up there.

[Narrator]

The pirates came.

[Councilman Demery]

It's opening up. Stiles. That's Alex Stiles. Let him come down. He doesn't see us, Mr. Demory. We'll get him without having to fire a shot. He's got a gun. We're playing it safe. Let him have it. I said let him have it.

[Inspector Briggs]

Gene. Gene, you all right?

[Councilman Demery]

Okay. They got Styles. Well, Inspector, I didn't expect to find the FBI here. We got a tip on the robbery.

[Inspector Briggs]

We got a tip too, Mr. Demery.

[Councilman Demery]

Oh, is that so?

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, from one of our agents here. Mr. Demery, I'd like to have you meet George Manley.

[Councilman Demery]

Well, I'm very glad to meet judgement.

[Inspector Briggs]

Just keep your hand out there, Mr. Demery. I'd like to try these on for size.

[Councilman Demery]

Well, what do you know? They fit. I just left the inspector. Sigh. He says we're going back to Washington. Both of us.

[Alex Stiles]

Yeah.

[Inspector Briggs]

You got them all, huh?

[Councilman Demery]

Yeah. Chief just radioed. They picked up the others at the gym. S. You're sure you're all right, huh?

[Inspector Briggs]

Me? Oh, Brian Ous Hyde. What do you think?

[Narrator]

The street on which crime flourishes is the street extending across America? It is the street with no name. Organized gangsterism is once again returning. If permitted to go unchecked, three out of every four Americans will eventually become one of its victims. Wherever law and order break down, there you will find public indifference. An alert and vigilant America will make for a secure America. Sign J. Edgar Hoover.

[William Keeley]

Our stars will return for their curtain calls in a moment. Libby, what is the finest vacation you could imagine?

[Clare Marlowe]

Well, that's easy. A cruise around the world.

[William Keeley]

Well, some lucky listener can win one in Lieber's $50,000 travel contest.

[Clare Marlowe]

It's the chance of a lifetime.

[William Keeley]

First prize is around the world tour for two. All travel expenses paid. Plus $1,000 pocket money and $700 for new clothes. Or $10,000 in cash.

[Clare Marlowe]

Think of visiting the famous sidewalk cafes in Paris. Historic London. The fabulous orientation the beach at w.

[William Keeley]

There are 15 thrilling second prizes too. Each and all travel expense trip to Europe or $2,500 in cash. You travel in state, best accommodations everywhere. All trips arranged by Thomas Cook and son. And there are 400 additional cash prizes. Each a crisp new $10 bill.

[Clare Marlowe]

It's easy to enter. Just finish this statement in 25 words or less. I like the large size box of.

[William Keeley]

Lux Flakes because Send each entry with a box top from large Size Luxe Flakes to Lever Tour the World contest box one, New York 8, New York. Only residents of continental United States, Alaska and Hawaii are eligible.

[Clare Marlowe]

You'll find complete rules on entry blanks at your store where the large size sale is being featured. Send in your entry this week.

[William Keeley]

Now here's Mr. Keeley with our stars.

[Narrator]

There's only one thing to say to a cast after tonight's performance, and that's well done. Here are the stars of our cast, returning to the microphone, Mark Stevens, Richard Widmar and Lloyd Nolan.

[Councilman Demery]

Bill, believe me, it's a pleasure to work with you once again.

[Alex Stiles]

Yes, and not quite as strenuous as the picture, Mark.

[Councilman Demery]

Well, I was kind of black and blue for two months after that one, Dick.

[Inspector Briggs]

Oh, you get used to it after a while, Mark. This is my third FBI picture, so I feel almost like a G man now.

[Narrator]

You know, I'm very pleased that we could do the street with no Name at this time as our way of congratulating J. Edgar Hoover, who is soon to mark his 25th anniversary as director of the FBI.

[Inspector Briggs]

And we all join you in those congratulations, Bill.

[Narrator]

Dick, I understand you're off in New England within the next few days.

[Inspector Briggs]

Yes, Bill.

[Alex Stiles]

I'm going to New Bedford for the opening of down to the Sea in Ships. That's the picture that put 20th Century Fox in the whaling business.

[Narrator]

And if you ran true to form, Dick, you probably scared the whales to death.

[Alex Stiles]

No, no, in this picture I'm a nice guy for a change. What have you got planned for next week, Bill?

[Inspector Briggs]

Next week?

[William Keeley]

Week.

[Narrator]

A drama that's packed with action and adventure. It's the 20th Century Fox picture Captain from Castile and our stars, Cornell Wilde and Gene Peters. This is a love story told against the thrilling background of Mexico in the days of the Spanish conquest. All the makings of the hit.

[Councilman Demery]

Bill, it sounds like a full house. Now, if you'll give me a box of luxury flakes to take to Mr. Stevens, I'll be a popular man. It's a favorite at our house. Good night and thanks.

[Inspector Briggs]

Good night.

[Narrator]

Good night.

[William Keeley]

And thanks to all of you.

[Inspector Briggs]

Lever.

[Narrator]

Brothers Company, the makers of Lux Flakes, join me in inviting you to be with us again next Monday evening when the Lux Radio Theater presents Cornell Wild and Jean Peters in Captain from Castile. This is William Keeley saying good night to you from Hollywood.

[William Keeley]

Mark Stevens appeared through the courtesy of 20th Century Fox and is currently co starring with Olivia de Havilland in the Snake Pit heard in tonight's cast were John McIntyre as Psy and Ed Begley as Chief. Our play was adapted by S.H. barnett and our music was directed by Louis Silver. And this is your announcer, John Milton Kennedy, reminding you to join us again next Monday night to hear Cornell Wilde and Gene Peters in Captain from Castile. Stay tuned for My friend Irma, which follows over these same stations. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. A fairly interesting undercover story. I really did like the scene with Stiles talking about the idea that what's the point of having a war if you're not going to learn from it? This suggests that military service may have taught some criminals to be better and more systematic in the way they approach crime, certainly an unintended consequence of a mass draft that was required to win that massive victory. Also, using the FBI to screen people for your criminal organization takes nerve if nothing else. That said, I don't think that this story was as good as T Men or the film that this is kind of a follow up or sequel to the house on 92nd Street. The criminals in this, other than Stiles, are much more generic than the sort of colorful and differentiated cast of Nazi spies in the film. And that carries over to the radio version. And the FBI procedure was a bit more paint by numbers and basic. Now I did watch the film and to me the highlight of that film was Widmark's performance, which I think elevated the whole piece. I don't think it's quite as strong in the radio version. He seems a bit more subdued and also this was kind of a message piece, but sometimes it felt felt like the message of the movie had little to do with the plot of the movie because the idea was to get the public concerned about organized crime and to realize that they needed to go ahead and be active and engaged in the fight against organized crime. What would really help, if your point is that citizen involvement is really important, is to tell a story where citizen involvement actually played a role in the solution to the crime. And I also think it's fair to wonder to what degree Stiles represents some threat that galvanizes the public. Because certainly Stiles has some strength. He's ruthless. He's vicious. He's also very clever and nervy. Yet the way the story is told, he's really undone by his own faults, namely his recklessness. He's in a situation where he is able to keep local law enforcement in check because of having corrupted a key individual. So what does he do? He commits a federal crime that allows the FBI to come in and claim jurisdiction. This could also be a case where obtaining the cooperation of the FBI, which was a really strong marketing gimmick for the film and for house on 92nd street for that matter, may have hindered them from telling the most entertaining story that they could have. I don't think it was bad for what it is, but it's just not in the top tier of these procedural films that came out at around the same time. While the show highlighted that William Keeley at this point, the host of Lux Radio Theater, directed the film and you had the three male leads back, Ed Begley was actually in the film in the same role as the Chief of police. And of course it's interesting that this film features not one but two different Martin Caine actors in Stevens and also Lloyd Nolan. Alright, well, now it is time for us to thank our Patreon Supporter of the day. And I want to thank Gary. Gary's been one of our Patreon supporters since August 2016, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Gary and and that will actually do it for today. If you are enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. I do want to note that this will be our last Sunday podcast for a while. We have had either encores or specials every Sunday since the start of our summer listener support campaign, and we've had fun sharing some of our older episodes as well as coming up with various ideas for specials. But we're going to return to now to our strict Monday through Saturday lineup until our spring listener support campaign. But we'll of course have many specials along the way as we go through 2025. We will be back on Monday with an episode of the Adventures of the Falcon where that's the situation Mr. Waring.

[Councilman Demery]

So you see my problem. No, I'm afraid I don't, Mr. Hunt. Isn't it obvious? I want you to locate this Clare Mallow. You said the police are looking for him. Unfortunately, I haven't much confidence in them. The jails are loaded with people who thought that. Nevertheless, I'd like to see you take the assignment.

[Inspector Briggs]

I don't like it.

[Councilman Demery]

Why not? It smells to me of tampering with a witness. Corporate claims as Claire Marlowe can prove you're guilty of Larry Gordon's murder. There's another side to the coin. If Ms. Marlowe sells someone else, she can establish my innocence. Yeah, I suppose that's true enough. What if the police find her first? So much the better. I just want the additional insurance. In my position, I need it. All right, Hunt. I'll do what I can. That's all I ask. You do what you can. And from that point on, it's up to me.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box 13, greatdetectives.com follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.