Molle Mystery Theatre: Murder in the City Hall (Encore) (EP4597)

Summary

Summary of "Molle Mystery Theatre: Murder in the City Hall (Encore)" (EP4597)

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Adam Graham Radio Detective Podcasts
• Episode: Molle Mystery Theatre: Murder in the City Hall (Encore) (EP4597)
• Release Date: January 10, 2025

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Introduction

In this milestone encore episode celebrating the 1,450th installment of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham presents a riveting adaptation of Raymond Chandler's short story, "Spanish Blood," retitled "Murder in the City Hall." Originally aired on April 5, 1946, this edition marks the second adaptation of the story, as the first performance was lost despite its popularity. Adam Graham sets the stage for listeners, blending insightful commentary with the classic detective narrative.

Adam Graham [00:28]: "We're presenting an adaptation of a non Philip Marlowe short story by Raymond Chandler... Thankfully, it was so popular it demanded a return and we're able to bring you that return performance."

Act 1: The Murder in City Hall

The story unfolds at City Hall, where Detective Lieutenant Sam Delagara and his partner, Pete Marcus of Homicide, arrive to investigate the gruesome murder of Donegan Marr, a judge candidate embroiled in a contentious upcoming election.

• Discovery of the Body:

  Upon entering Marr's office, they find him slumped over his chair with two bullet holes in his chest, yet holding his own gun—a puzzling piece of evidence.

  Sam Delagara [05:35]: "Bullet holes in his chest."

  Jeffrey Barnes [05:38]: "The office is probably soundproof."

• Initial Evidence:

  The absence of bullet shells suggests the murderer meticulously collected them post-crime. Investigators find Marr's appointment pad, which reveals a scheduled meeting with Assistant District Attorney Imlay—another judge candidate running on Big Boss Masters' ticket.

  Sam Delagara [06:08]: "Here's his appointment pan. Somebody named Imlay was due here at 12:15. It's 1:30 now."

  Jeffrey Barnes [06:18]: "A lady's gun. Close to the heart, but not touching. Must have died about an hour ago."

Act 2: The Investigation Deepens

As the investigation progresses, complications arise when Imlay is found dead at Puma Lake, contradicting the initial assumption that he murdered Marr in self-defense.

• Interruption by the Commissioner:

  The Commissioner contacts Sam, assigning him to oversee the case, ostensibly sending him away to Puma Lake to avoid interference.

  Sam Delagara [08:30]: "My guess is that he doesn't want me working on this case."

• Interview with Belle Marr:

  Sam interviews Belle Marr, Donegan's wife, who reveals potential motives tied to political machinations and personal grievances.

  Belle Marr [10:22]: "He talked to Mrs. Ma, and she ain't said a word... She just stands around like she's dazed."

• Discovery of Imlay’s Death:

  Returning from Puma Lake, Sam discovers that Imlay is already dead, eliminating him as the murderer and deepening the mystery.

  Sam Delagara [13:23]: "A dead man. A bullet through his. Is it Imlay?"

  Sam Delagara [13:43]: "Sam, let's get going and I'll tell you on the way."

Act 3: Unmasking the True Culprit

Determined to uncover the truth, Sam delves deeper into the tangled web of deceit, leading him to Stella Lamott and Toribo, who are entangled in a scheme involving blackmail and deceit.

• Confrontation with Toribo:

  Sam's investigation leads him to Toribo's apartment, where he interrogates him about Stella Lamott and their involvement in Marr's murder.

  Sam Delagara [21:05]: "That's why I'm here, Toribo. I want to get acquainted with you."

  Toribo [21:14]: "I think maybe she's left Thanh, just like I'm gonna do."

• Stella's Revelation and Twist:

  Stella Lamott confesses her role in the plot, initially framing Imlay but ultimately revealing her true motive and actions.

  Stella Lamott [26:23]: "You killed Joey."

  Stella Lamott [26:38]: "And I don't mind kicking off myself only."

• Final Confrontation and Resolution:

  In the climax, Sam deduces that Stella was the actual murderer, manipulating events to obscure her involvement and protect her interests.

  Sam Delagara [28:35]: "Imlay can't have killed Mar. Then who did?"

  Belle Marr [28:53]: "Then you know who killed Donnie?"

  Sam Delagara [28:53]: "Donnie didn't die right away, Bell... He must have written Imlay's name on the pad afterwards, when he was alone and dying."

  The case concludes ambiguously, with Stella's final denials and Sam's acknowledgment that the true perpetrator remains elusive to the public, despite his deductions.

  Sam Delagara [27:53]: "But they'll never know who."

Host's Commentary and Conclusion

After the dramatic conclusion of the mystery, Adam Graham revisits the adaptation, reflecting on its origins and the enduring legacy of Raymond Chandler's work in radio drama.

Adam Graham [31:21]: "In the short story, it ends with Sam making the conclusion... an interesting story and it was not the first time that Raymond Chandler was adapted."

He expresses a desire for the recovery of other lost adaptations, such as "Goldfish," highlighting their cultural significance.

Adam Graham [31:21]: "I would love if the adaptation of Goldfish were uncovered because that was a really good story..."

Graham wraps up the episode by thanking listeners and promoting upcoming episodes, ensuring the continuity of the podcast's rich tradition in celebrating old-time radio detective stories.

Adam Graham [31:21]: "Thanks so much to everyone for listening and supporting the show throughout the year. We'll be back on Monday with the Saint..."

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Notable Quotes

• Sam Delagara on Initial Investigation:

  "Bullet holes in his chest."
  — Sam Delagara [05:35]

• Sam Delagara on Political Intrigue:

  "Masters and the Commissioner pin the killing on Imlay..."
  — Sam Delagara [16:56]

• Belle Marr's Confession:

  "Immay admitted the murder through his attorney claiming self-defense..."
  — Jeffrey Barnes [17:53]

• Stella Lamott's Moment of Truth:

  "Stella, I got him, didn't I?"
  — Belle Marr [26:43]

• Sam Delagara's Determination:

  "The killer of Donegan Marr isn't going to get off unpunished."
  — Sam Delagara [27:05]

Conclusion

"Murder in the City Hall" serves as a testament to the timeless allure of detective narratives, expertly blending suspense, character development, and intricate plotting. Adam Graham's homage to Raymond Chandler not only revives a classic tale but also underscores the podcast's commitment to preserving and celebrating the golden age of radio detective fiction. As listeners navigate through the twists and turns of Sam Delagara's investigation, they are reminded of the enduring power of storytelling in unraveling the complexities of human nature and justice.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

Today we're bringing you another encore of an episode based on a book or short story. A reminder that any offers or information mentioned in these older episodes are not valid unless currently displayed on our Great Detectives website. Now enjoy today's encore. Welcome to the Great detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. If you have a comment, send it to me [e-mail] Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and become one of our friends on Facebook facebook.com RadioDetectives well, it's time for us to celebrate our 1450th episode. And to do that, we're presenting an adaptation of a non Philip Marlowe short story by Raymond Chandler. This occurred on the Mole Mystery Theater. This is actually the second time this story was adapted, but that episode is lost. Thankfully, it was so popular it demanded a return and we're able to bring you that return performance. The original air date is April 5th of 1946 and the title is Murder in the City Hall.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

And now, the Mole Mystery Theater presented by M O L L E Mole the Heavier Brushless Shaving cream for Tender SK Good evening, this is Jeffrey Barnes welcoming you to the program that presents the best in mystery and detective fiction. More than a year ago, we presented on this program a hard hitting detective story entitled Murder in the City Hall. I received many letters from you fans telling me how pleased you were with that story. And I wasn't surprised. For that story was based on a novelette entitled Spanish Blood, written by one of the greatest of the modern mystery writers, Raymond Chandler, author of the Big Sleep and of the recent hit motion picture Murder My Sweet. Well, tonight we're going to repeat that fine story. So here it is, Raymond Chandler's Murder in the City hall. Oh, say, Mr. Barnes, before we get started, let's turn the clock back to 8:00 this morning. You know, hate o'clock, the time of morning that lots of men hate because they have to shave. That is, except the man who shaved with mole, the heavier brushless shaving cream. Yes, sir. With mole, it's smooth. So smooth. It's slick. So slick. It's a smooth, smooth, slick, slick shave you get with M O L L E. Mole, the heavier brushless cream for tender skins. That's right. Mole is the shaving cream that's heavier. The cream that's made for a wiry, hard to cut beard or tender skin. Because mole is heavier, it not only softens your whiskers, it stands them up straighter. And lets your razor clip them off. Close and clean. So you shave faster, closer, easier. And you shave painlessly with mole. The heavier brushless cream for tender skins. Mole. Now for tonight's Mole mystery. Murder in the City Hall. Down this corridor, Sam. It's the end office.

[Sam Delagara]

Oh, can you beat it, Sam? Bumping off Donegan.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Mar Boy. Will this make trouble down at City Hall?

[Sam Delagara]

Right, Pete.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Two months till election and one of the candidates for judge is dead as a doornail.

[Sam Delagara]

We went to school together, Donnie and me. Carried the torch for the same girl. He won. He always did. He's a great guy.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Here, Sam. We turn down this way.

[Sam Delagara]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Donny Moore was a great guy till he got into politics. Then he changes. Got mixed up with the mud.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Keep out of politics, that's my motto.

[Sam Delagara]

And something happened to his marriage too. What kind of sour? Feel sorry for his wife, Belle.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Still carrying the torch for us, Sam?

[Sam Delagara]

Yeah, maybe.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Here we are.

[Sam Delagara]

All right, officer. Lieutenant Sam Delagara and Pete Marcus of Homicide taking over.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Yes, sir.

[Sam Delagara]

Here's the body.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Slumped over in his chair with two.

[Sam Delagara]

Bullet holes in his chest. Anybody hear the shot, Pete? No.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

The office is probably soundproof.

[Sam Delagara]

Who reported the killing?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

His secretary. She went to lunch an hour early today and when she came back, she found this and phoned the police. And Marr's wife?

[Sam Delagara]

Where's she now?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

The secretary? They sent her home.

[Sam Delagara]

She was getting hysterical. Look, Pete, he has a gun in his hand. Only that hasn't been used. Probably his own.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Don't see any empty shells any place, Sam. Whoever did it must have been smart enough to pick up the shells.

[Sam Delagara]

Here's his appointment pan. Somebody named Imlay was due here at 12:15. It's 1:30 now.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Who's Imlay?

[Sam Delagara]

Wait a minute. Sure. There's an assistant DA named Imlay on big Boss Master's ticket. Running for judge against Mar. Sam, you don't think. I don't know what to think yet. Hey, take a look at this writing on the pad. Pretty shaky, isn't it? Very shaky. Just as.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Hello, boys. Afternoon, Mr. Coroner.

[Sam Delagara]

How are you, dad?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Well, well. An important stiff this time.

[Sam Delagara]

Yes.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Let's see what we can make of it. Two slugs, eh?

[Sam Delagara]

Small ones.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Look like about.25 caliber. A lady's gun. Close to the heart, but not touching. Must have died about an hour ago. About 12:30.

[Sam Delagara]

Maybe a minute or two after he was shot.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

You don't have to be so cheerful about it, Pete. Here they are. What, Sam?

[Sam Delagara]

Missing shells. The murderer hid them in the humidor. There under some cigar butts.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Let's see him. Yep, just as I thought.25 caliber shells from a small gun. Like maybe a woman would use. I got it. Hello? Oh. Oh, yes, Commissioner, this is Lieutenant Pete Marcus. Yeah.

[Sam Delagara]

Anybody else turn on?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Uh, no. Nobody's been here but the coroner. Pull everything till you get her. Sure thing. No, no printer, cameraman yet. Only me and Sam delegara. Yeah. Yes, sir. Here's Sam. The commissioner wants to talk to you.

[Sam Delagara]

Hello, Commissioner. Sure. What am I doing on the case? Well, I was just standing around. They sent me over.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Your pals with Donnie Moore, weren't you?

[Sam Delagara]

Sure. I knew Donny Mar, but I didn't room with him. Okay, Commissioner, you're the boss. Right away. Pete, you've got to take care of things till the commissioner gets here.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Me? What about you?

[Sam Delagara]

He's ordered me to take a run up to Mars cabin at Puma Lake. Don't tell anybody. Only I'm calling on Donnie's wife first.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

What's the idea of sending you off like this?

[Sam Delagara]

My guess is that he doesn't want me working on this case. Oh, hello, Mr. Sam. My, it sure is good you came. Minnie, I'm sorry about what's happened, but I've got to see Mrs. Marr right away.

[Belle Marr]

Oh, sure. Come on in, sir.

[Sam Delagara]

No reporters yet? Oh, no, sir. Nobody ain't been here yet. Only the commissioner.

[Belle Marr]

He just phoned about five minutes ago.

[Sam Delagara]

The commissioner phoned here? Why, yes, Mr. Sam. What'd he say? Well, I don't rightly know, Mr. Sam. He talked to Mrs. Ma, and she ain't said a word, even to me, ever since she heard the awful news.

[Belle Marr]

She just stands around like she's dazed.

[Sam Delagara]

Well, I'll go on into her. And don't talk to anybody. Minnie, don't say anything. Hello, Belle.

[Belle Marr]

Oh, Sam. Sam, I don't know what to say. It's all so terrible.

[Sam Delagara]

I know, I know. Donnie was in a tough racket. Belle, when you play with fire, you killed him, Sam.

[Belle Marr]

That's the important thing. Have you any idea?

[Sam Delagara]

There might be one suspect.

[Belle Marr]

A man or woman?

[Sam Delagara]

A man. Somebody connected with the Masters gang, Donnie was running against.

[Belle Marr]

What's this rotten city government coming to?

[Sam Delagara]

Belle, are you really sorry Donnie's killed?

[Belle Marr]

Why do you ask that?

[Sam Delagara]

I want to know. Yes.

[Belle Marr]

Yes, I am sorry, Sam. I really am. I didn't think I could be. But now that he's dead, I knew.

[Sam Delagara]

Something went wrong between you two. Donnie had been running around with a fast crowd. Other women.

[Belle Marr]

Oh, please, I'd rather not Talk about it.

[Sam Delagara]

Just as you say. What did the commissioner just say to you on the phone?

[Belle Marr]

Oh, how do you know? He called.

[Sam Delagara]

Well, let's not go into that. Bell. What did he say?

[Belle Marr]

Well, it seems that a man named Emily, one of Donnie's opponents in the election, had been mixed up with a nightclub singer called Stella Lamott. The commissioner found some rather sensational pictures of Emily and Stella in Donnie's desk.

[Sam Delagara]

What? He's crazy. Pete and I looked. We never saw any pictures.

[Belle Marr]

The commissioner thinks Donnie was trying to blackmail Emily into withdrawing from the race. Evidently, he and Donnie had quite a row and Emily beat him to the draw.

[Sam Delagara]

Do. Do you believe that, Belle?

[Belle Marr]

I. I don't know what to believe.

[Sam Delagara]

Do you want me to do anything about this?

[Belle Marr]

Oh, I do, Sam. I do. Donnie's eyes stare at me from the walls, wherever I look.

[Sam Delagara]

How about giving me the keys to his cabin up at Puma Lake?

[Belle Marr]

Why?

[Sam Delagara]

I've been ordered to go up there and look around.

[Belle Marr]

Certainly, Sam. You can have the keys. But wait just a moment. I'm going with you.

[Sam Delagara]

You know what I think, Belle? They're sending me up to Puma Lake to get me out of the way down there.

[Belle Marr]

Who's they?

[Sam Delagara]

Oh, the commissioner. And behind him, Boss Ma.

[Belle Marr]

Sam, do you think Big Boss Masters might have had Donnie Q?

[Sam Delagara]

No. No, Belle, that doesn't add up.

[Belle Marr]

Why not?

[Sam Delagara]

Because Masters would never have allowed Imlay to become involved in such a thing. Imlay was running on Master's ticket.

[Belle Marr]

Well, then you don't think Imlay is the murderer?

[Sam Delagara]

I don't know. Oh, it might be just what the commissioner says it is. A quarrel over those pictures of Imlay and Stella Lamott. After all, Donnie might have threatened to blackmail Imlay.

[Belle Marr]

Donnie's done a lot of things lately I haven't been proud of.

[Sam Delagara]

Well, here we are at the cabin. A lonely little place. When was Donnie up here last?

[Belle Marr]

I don't know. He was always coming up here for conferences. At least he said he was coming here.

[Sam Delagara]

I'll nose around a bit, see what I can find.

[Belle Marr]

I'll come along with you, Sam.

[Sam Delagara]

No, Bill. No, no. You wait here in the car. You can turn on the radio if you like. I'll be right back. Take it easy, Ken. Calm down.

[Belle Marr]

I'll be all right.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

We interrupt this program to bring you the latest bulletin on the City hall murder of Donegan Marr. The police are now working on the theory that Marr was killed in a quarrel resulting from pressure which he was putting on his rival. Assistant District Attorney Imlay in order to force his withdrawal from the coming municipal election. A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Imlay. But at present, Imlay's whereabouts are unknown. Keep tuned to this station for further bulletins. Come on, Bell.

[Sam Delagara]

We're getting back to town.

[Belle Marr]

You find anything?

[Sam Delagara]

Sam, let's get going and I'll tell you on the way.

[Belle Marr]

You did find something. You can tell by the expression on your face.

[Sam Delagara]

Yes, Val? Something I wasn't supposed to find.

[Belle Marr]

What?

[Sam Delagara]

A dead man. A bullet through his. Is it Imlay?

[Belle Marr]

Imlay?

[Sam Delagara]

Yeah. And he's been dead for hours. At least since last night.

[Adam Graham]

But.

[Belle Marr]

But Donnie was killed this morning.

[Sam Delagara]

That means Imlay couldn't have killed Donnie. Exactly.

[Belle Marr]

Then who did?

[Sam Delagara]

That's what I'm gonna find out.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

As the curtain falls on Act 1 of tonight's Mole mystery. It looks as though Mar and Imlay don't stand much chance of being elected. Now, what think you, Mr. Seymour? Well, Mr. Barnes, would you believe it if I told you that there are plenty of men who'd be willing to change places with either of them? Dad? Well, almost, anyway. For instance, there's the fellow who'd sooner be shot at than shaved. And say, man, if that's how you feel about shaving. Chances are you have wiry whiskers or a tender skin. So try Mole, the heavier brushless shaving cream for tender skins. Mole gives you a shave as smooth as sailing and as slick as a whistle. Yes, Mole is a heavier cream. The cream that not only softens your whiskers. But holds them up straight as cornstalks While your razor cuts them down quickly, easily. With Mole, you shave faster, closer, easier. And you shave painlessly.

[Sam Delagara]

Try it.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

See if you don't say it's smooth, so smooth it's slick, so slick it's a smooth, smooth, slick, slick shave you get with M O L L E. Mole, the heavier brushless shaving cream for tender skins mole. Now here is Jeffrey Barnes and Act 2 of Murder in the City Hall. Young Police Lieutenant Sam Delaguera suspects that the city's political machine is behind the murder of his old friend, Donegan Marr. The police believe that the machine candidate for the judgeship, a man named Imlay, committed the killing in self defense. But Delagarra knows Imlay could not possibly have killed Donegan Marr. Now he returns to police headquarters. Hi, Sam. Good thing you're back already. The commissioner wants to see you.

[Sam Delagara]

Yeah, and I want to see him too. Listen, Pete, were you in Mars office when those Stella the Mark photographs Were found. Yeah, but I didn't find them. The Commissioner did. Did you see him find them?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

No, but I don't think he planted.

[Sam Delagara]

Them, if that's what you mean. That's exactly what I meant. Now look, Mar is murdered. So the voters are going to think Big John Masters had him killed because he was giving the political machine a run for the money. You don't think that, do you, Sam? No, I don't. But even if the killing had no political meaning, Masters and his machine would have to clean this killing up fast or else. And if they can pin the killing on Imlay, the case is a cinch and Masters gets all the votes. How do you figure that? Well, Masters and the Commissioner pin the killing on Imlay, you get it? But they do it so it looks like Mar was blackmailing him. So Mar's a villain and Imlay's practically a hero because he shot in self defense.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Good Lord, Sam, you don't.

[Sam Delagara]

Well, that's the way they've doped it. Commissioner.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Ah, there you are, Delagara.

[Sam Delagara]

Evening, Commissioner.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Come on to my office here. I want to talk to you. Find anything up at Puma Lake?

[Sam Delagara]

I wasn't supposed to, was I?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

This is no time to be making cracks. You're on the carpet.

[Sam Delagara]

What's up?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

You didn't do a very good job of it. Mar's office this morning. You said you went over it. And yet you failed to find the photographs Marr had in his desk.

[Sam Delagara]

So you walk in and find him immediately.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

That'll be enough, Delagara. And when I order you up to Puma Lake, you stop by and pick up Mar's widow and take her along with you.

[Sam Delagara]

Word certainly gets around fast, doesn't it? What's wrong with my taking Mrs. Marr up there?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Never mind. Trouble with you, Delagara, is that you're always too quick on the trigger. Too fast on the pickup. For your own good. That doesn't fit in with what the department expects of you.

[Sam Delagara]

I suppose you're trying to say that you want my badge.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

That's right.

[Sam Delagara]

Okay, there it is.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

You're being suspended for a hearing, Delagara.

[Sam Delagara]

And to lay off the Mar case. That's it, isn't it?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

There isn't any Mar case. Imlay's admitted the shooting through his attorney claim self defense. Will surrender in the morning.

[Sam Delagara]

Oh, Imlay admits the murder, huh?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Yes. My advice to you is to relax a bit. Stop trying to blame everything on the political machine in the city. Pay a little more attention to being a good cop.

[Sam Delagara]

That's the trouble, commissioner. As a good cop, I can add up a few things I know about this case and they don't make sense. But I can promise you one thing. The killer of Donegan Moore isn't going to get off unpunished. Yeah, who's there? It's me, Sam Delagara. Hello, Joey. Okay, copper, Come in. What do you want? I got a hundred dollars for you. This ain't Christmas. Why? You know a girl named Stella Lamont? I don't know. I might. Well, you ought to. Stella Lamont's only her stage name. Her real name. Stella Chill. She's your sister. So what? What about her? And assistant D.A. named inlay? Nothing. You better talk fast, Joy. You're gonna be sorry. Stella's accused of the killing of Donnie Marr. She never even knew Marr. But she did know Imlay. Well, what's wrong with that? She was playing him for a shakedown. Yeah? Tell me more. Stella and a guy named Toribo were working together on it. He put Stella up to it. So she put some drops in Imlay's liquor and he passed out. Then she and Toribo set up those pictures. She put an arm around his neck and put a bottle of liquor in his hand. And just like a dame, she gets scared and spills the whole thing to me. Why'd she get scared? She got to like him, Leigh. She was afraid Toribo might rub him out. So I follow Toribo. I live in a shutter. After a while, I trail him to Big John Master's apartment. I see. Did I get my hundred bucks? That listens good so far. What do you make of it, Joey? Only that Stella didn't kill Ma. Imlay must have done it. Where can I find Stella? I think maybe she's left Thanh, just like I'm gonna do. It ain't healthy for me in this nut.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Get your hands up over your head, both of you. Don't look this way, copper. Keep your back turned. No. What do you want? I don't know you.

[Sam Delagara]

That's why I'm here, Toribo. I want to get acquainted with you. Shall I come in?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Why not? You're halfway in already.

[Sam Delagara]

Yeah. Well, a nice little place you got here, Toribo. Must be in the money. Did you come here just to admire my apartment? No, but I might as well, as long as I'm here. Who are you, anyway? Take a look at my back. Ever see it before from a broken window? What's the matter, you nuts? You been out of here in the last half hour.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Who Cares?

[Sam Delagara]

You been doing any shooting, Toribo? At a stool pigeon named Joey? Chill.

[Belle Marr]

No, Joey. Don't tell me Joey's been killed.

[Sam Delagara]

All right, little girl. Who are you?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Shut up, Stella, and get back in the other room.

[Belle Marr]

I'm Stella Lamott. I'm Joey's sister. Don't tell me he's been killed.

[Sam Delagara]

About 20 minutes ago. He was telling me all about.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

What?

[Sam Delagara]

Oh.

[Adam Graham]

Oh.

[Sam Delagara]

There. That ought to keep that copper quiet.

[Belle Marr]

Trevo, what do you know about Joey being killed?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

What do you mean, what do I know?

[Belle Marr]

Who killed him?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

How do I know?

[Belle Marr]

You've got to talk faster, Evo. You've got to tell me where you were a half hour ago.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Shut up, Stella. Get on the phone and get Masters here in a hur. This is Jeffrey Barnes again. In just a moment, we'll return you to act three of Murder in the City Hall. Here's something for dandruff sufferers to keep in mind. Most ordinary hair preparations are no more effective for combating dandruff than plain water is. For they merely do what plain water does. That is, remove loose dandruff. But a scientific product called Double Dandarine does more. It actually works where most ordinary hair preparations fail. For Double Dandarine kills the germs that many outstanding authorities contend are a cause of a common type of dandruff. Yes, and it actually kills these germs on contact. Now, the amazing effectiveness of Double Dandarine is due to a special ingredient called alzan, an active antiseptic so remarkably efficient that many hospitals use it. And among hair preparations, Double Dandarine. And Double Dandarine alone has it. So try Double Dandarine and see if you don't agree that most ordinary hair preparations can't compare with its dandruff combating effectiveness. If you're not satisfied, return the empty bottle and get your money back. Buy Double Dandarine at your druggist's.

[Belle Marr]

Look, Mr. Masters. He's coming too.

[Sam Delagara]

All right. Still all right.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Pretty tough, lieutenant, isn't he, Toribo? Too tough for his own good.

[Sam Delagara]

Come on, copper. Sit up. Well, quite a reception, huh, boss? Masters is himself. That's the idea.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

All right, Delaga. From now on, I'll do the asking. What do you want? Coming here to Toribo's apartment?

[Sam Delagara]

I was looking for Stella Lamott.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Why?

[Sam Delagara]

I want to find out who killed Donnie.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Marr wants her to find out. Imlay has confessed to his attorney that he killed Marr.

[Sam Delagara]

Why hasn't he appeared and made his own confession?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

We expect him to do that in.

[Sam Delagara]

A day or two. Only he won't, because he's dead. Lying flat on his face in that cabin up at Puma Lake.

[Belle Marr]

Imlay dead?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

He can't.

[Sam Delagara]

And what's more, he was dead before Marr was killed. He couldn't have killed Mar.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Well, a g. What you say is true. Sure.

[Sam Delagara]

Imlay probably went up to talk with Mar as soon as he got wind of those pictures. You had to Rebo. Fake. Why wouldn't he when he went to Seymour last night and not this morning? Must have got into a fight and Imlay got killed.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

You mean Mar killed Imlay?

[Sam Delagara]

Who else could have done it up there?

[Belle Marr]

And who killed Mar?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Yeah, who killed Martin?

[Sam Delagara]

How about it, Masters?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Oh, why should I have Marr murdered?

[Sam Delagara]

You must have had those pictures of Stella here planted in Marr's desk.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

All right, Delagar, we did plant those pictures. We had to do that. Only now.

[Sam Delagara]

Now it won't work because Imlay's dead.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Deligar, I'll pay you five grand if you can find me the murderer of Imlay. How much do you know about the case?

[Sam Delagara]

Several things. First, Mar evidently got a fake phone call from someone making an appointment for Emily at 12:15 today. Now, that must have scared Ma if he knew he'd killed Emily the night before. So what did he do? Under the circumstances, I stall a course. Send his office girl off to lunch. Put his gun where he could reach it in a hurry. Be all set for trouble. And when his 1215 visitor arrived, he got his gun out, but he didn't use it.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

So what?

[Sam Delagara]

I'm not sure yet. But Mar was no slouch with a gun. And he was on edge. He was all set. Why didn't he shoot? Why? Because it was a woman who called on him.

[Belle Marr]

A woman?

[Jeffrey Barnes]

You mean Stella here? Because she loved dimly, even though she.

[Sam Delagara]

Started to frame him.

[Belle Marr]

Why, you dirty. No, I didn't kill Mark.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Come on, Stella, talk. You must have known that Mar is going to blackmail your boyfriend. Sure.

[Belle Marr]

Stella, are you loud? Look out. This is for you too. You killed Joey.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

Why, you little.

[Belle Marr]

Stella, I got him, didn't I?

[Sam Delagara]

Yes, Stella.

[Belle Marr]

And I don't mind kicking off myself only.

[Sam Delagara]

Yes.

[Belle Marr]

Don, you got to believe me when I say I didn't kill Mar. Somebody else did that job.

[Sam Delagara]

Oh, hello, Mr. Sam. Hello, Minnie. Where's Miss Martin? In the other room. She just sits in there and. Okay, okay.

[Belle Marr]

Oh, Sam, I've been waiting and waiting. What? What's happened?

[Sam Delagara]

Stella lamotte just killed a skunk by the name of Toribo case is officially closed. I guess Tendoni's murder on Toribo somehow. There'll be an inquest, of course. Investigations. Plus a lot of people shooting their mouths off to horn in on the publicity. The papers will play it up big for a while, but as far as the police are concerned, the case is tied up in a pack.

[Belle Marr]

Oh, Sam, I'm so glad it's all over.

[Sam Delagara]

Yes. Only I'm pretty sure now a woman really killed Donnie.

[Belle Marr]

A woman?

[Sam Delagara]

Yes, Belle. But they'll never know who.

[Belle Marr]

One of those women he'd been running around with, maybe. What makes you think a woman killed him?

[Sam Delagara]

Because he was shot with a small gun, such as a woman might use.

[Belle Marr]

Sam, that doesn't prove it was a woman.

[Sam Delagara]

No, not exactly. But for a while, I was sure Stella Lamott might have killed him.

[Belle Marr]

But she didn't.

[Sam Delagara]

No, I'm positive of that. Her dying words to me tonight were that she didn't kill Don.

[Belle Marr]

And you believed her? Oh, Sam, how could you take the word?

[Sam Delagara]

You had to believe her, Belle. The caliber of her gun didn't match the shells I found in Donnie's office. Then on my way here, I began adding up all the clues.

[Belle Marr]

Then you know who killed Donnie?

[Sam Delagara]

Donnie didn't die right away, Bell. The coroner said that Donnie had nerve. He tried to protect someone. Someone very close to him. Bell. And the writing on his appointment pad was pretty shaky. He must have written Imlay's name on the pad afterwards, when he was alone and dying. Well, maybe Donnie was sorry how he had treated you, Bell.

[Adam Graham]

What?

[Sam Delagara]

Anyway, he wanted to shield you.

[Belle Marr]

Oh, all right, Sam. It was the horrible kind of women he went around with. I was desperate.

[Sam Delagara]

I had to stop downtown. They like the case. As it stands now, nobody will ever figure out who killed Donnie. I'll get my police job back. All right. And you, Belle, you're gonna do what Donnie wanted you to do.

[Belle Marr]

Do? Do what, Sam?

[Sam Delagara]

You're gonna suffer already.

[Belle Marr]

No. No, Sam, I can't.

[Sam Delagara]

You're going to suffer the way Donnie wanted you to suffer. You're going right on living with a memory of how you killed him until you've really paid the hard way.

[Belle Marr]

No, Sam, I'm not. I couldn't bear that. I'll give myself up.

[Sam Delagara]

Okay, Belle, get going.

[Jeffrey Barnes]

And now, this is Jeffrey Barnes again inviting you to be with us next week when we present the greatest modern mystery classic of them all. Emlyn Williams's famous play and motion picture, Night Must Fall. And as guest star, Ms. Virginia Field, star of the Broadway hit Dough Girls and the motion picture Waterloo Bridge. Now this is Dan Seymour saying good night until next Friday at this same time when the Mystery Theater presents Night Must Fall. Tonight's Mystery Theater presentation came to you from Radio City in New York. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. A very interesting story that was adapted, as they said, from the Raymond Chandler story Spanish Blood. And actually in the short story, it ends with Sam making the conclusion. She didn't end up going in to confess. Other than that, though, an interesting story and it was not the first time that Raymond Chandler was adapted. The series also adapted the Big Sleep, the Philip Marlowe novel, as well as the short story Goldfish, but both of those episodes are lost. The Big Sleep would really be hard to give justice to in a half hour adaptation, but I would love if the adaptation of Goldfish were uncovered because that was a really good story. It's almost as good as Red Wind. Not quite, but pretty close. Well, I hope you've enjoyed the celebration of 1450 episodes. Thanks so much to everyone for listening and supporting the show throughout the year. We'll be back on Monday with the Saint and then be sure and join us again on Wednesday for the Adventures of Philip Marlow. In the meantime, send your comments to Box13, atives.net follow us on Twitter radiodetactives and become one of our friends on Facebook. Facebook.com Radiodetactives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.