Mr. and Mrs. North: Dime a Dance (EP4620)

Summary

Summary of "Mr. and Mrs. North: Dime a Dance" (EP4620)

Release Date: February 6, 2025

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Introduction

In this enthralling episode of Mr. and Mrs. North, listeners are transported into a web of deceit, jealousy, and murder set against the vibrant backdrop of the Golden Age of Radio. Hosted by Adam Graham, the episode meticulously blends suspenseful storytelling with sharp dialogue, showcasing the intricate dynamics between the titular couple, Jerry and Pamela North.

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Plot Overview

The episode opens with Jerry and Pamela North navigating the complexities of their married life. Jerry, portrayed by Joseph Curtin, starts his morning reluctantly, craving his first cup of coffee before fully waking up. In contrast, Pamela, voiced by Alice Frost, exudes exuberance and romance, immediately declaring her love for Jerry ([02:47] Pamela North).

Tension arises when Pamela receives a mysterious letter from Honey Joan, a woman connected to the rumba taxi dance hall where Pamela works as a diamond dance hostess. Honey claims to have a manuscript and hints at secrets that could unravel the Norths' relationship. Pamela confronts Jerry about the letter, leading to a heated exchange where Jerry vehemently denies any infidelity and expresses his distrust towards Honey's intentions ([03:20]-[04:17]).

As the story unfolds, Honey Joan is found murdered, and suspicion falls on various characters, including Tony Jones, a writer with dubious motives. Jerry takes it upon himself to investigate, leading him and Pamela to the Rumba Taxi Dance Hall. Their sleuthing reveals hidden agendas and the true motive behind Honey's demise—the coveted manuscript that threatens to expose deep-seated secrets ([09:00]-[26:48]).

In a climactic confrontation, Jerry faces off with Tony Hornswigger, the real murderer, uncovering his plot to blackmail Honey with the manuscript. The episode culminates in Tony's confession and arrest, exonerating Jerry and restoring peace to the North household.

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Key Characters

• Jerry North (Joseph Curtin): A determined and principled husband who refuses to let his wife's connections compromise their integrity. His relentless pursuit of the truth showcases his commitment to justice.

• Pamela North (Alice Frost): A vivacious and intelligent wife who balances her professional life with her personal relationships. Her interactions reveal her depth and resilience.

• Honey Joan (Character Voiced by Pamela North): A pivotal figure whose mysterious manuscript drives the central conflict. Her double life as a dance hostess adds layers to the narrative.

• Tony Jones/Hornswigger (Jerry North): Initially portrayed as a suspect, Tony's true nature is unveiled as the antagonist, whose greed leads to murder.

• Sergeant Mullins (Supportive Role): Represents the law's involvement, aiding the Norths in unraveling the mystery.

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Themes and Insights

Jealousy and Trust: The episode delves deep into the fragile nature of trust within a marriage. Jerry's jealousy, fueled by misunderstanding, threatens to destabilize his relationship with Pamela until the truth surfaces.

Deception and Truth: Multiple layers of deception are peeled back to reveal underlying truths. Characters present facades that hide their true intentions, emphasizing the difficulty of discerning truth in a web of lies.

The Quest for Knowledge: The coveted manuscript symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and its potential to bring both enlightenment and destruction. Tony's desire to possess it at any cost highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition.

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Notable Quotes

1. Pamela North ([02:47]):

   "I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love with a wonderful guy."

2. Jerry North ([02:54]):

   "Pamela, you are not Mary Martin, and I am not Ezio Pinza. So will you do me a favor? Don't be so gay until I've had my first cup of coffee."

3. Tony Hornswigger ([10:08]):

   "Oh, you're Betty Davis. Now, if this Tory fellow is out avenging his wife's dubious honor, I wonder where we would find her men friends?"

4. Jerry North ([21:09]):

   "You stole her manuscript from her? Sure."

5. Pamela North ([26:32]):

   "Hey. Talk."

6. Jerry North ([26:38]):

   "I did it."

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Conclusion

"Dime a Dance" masterfully intertwines personal drama with a gripping murder mystery, keeping listeners engaged through its well-crafted narrative and dynamic character interactions. Adam Graham's insightful commentary further enriches the listening experience, offering deeper analysis and appreciation for the episode's intricate plot and character development. This installment not only entertains but also invites reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of truth.

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For those new to The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, this episode exemplifies the engaging storytelling and rich character portrayals that have made the podcast a beloved staple for mystery enthusiasts. Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, "Dime a Dance" promises an immersive and satisfying listen.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the great detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment, we're going to bring you this Week's episode of Mr. And Mrs. North. I do want to encourage you, if you enjoy the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. But now I want to talk a little bit about Moly B's friends. You've had cookies before, but not like this. Molly B's gourmet cookies are the kind of cookies you'll be talking about long after the last crumb. We're talking flavors like straight fire with marshmallows, milk chocolate and a kick of cinnamon whiskey, or the tropical escape of pina coladas with coconut, white chocolate and fruity pebbles. These aren't just snacks, they're experiences. Each cookie is handcrafted in small batches, so every bite is a melt in your mouth masterpiece. Whether you're gifting them or keeping them for yourself, these cookies elevate the moment. Now, I've lined up something special for you. Go to mollybeez.com, that's mollybz.com and use the code box13 at checkout to get a 10% discount on your order. And yes, I'll earn a commission when you use my code. So you're not just treating yourself. You're helping support the show. So don't wait. These cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone with taste buds. That's mollybees.com code box 13. Now, from March 7, 1950, here is Dahme dance Mr. And Mrs. Mars, starring.

[Jerry North]

Joseph Curtin and Alice Frost. All sorts of people are going around making all sorts of surveys about the habits of the American male and female. If they ever questioned Pam and Jerry north, they'd learned something that would make their hair stand on end. For instance, in the morning, Jerry prefers regaining consciousness by degrees. But Pam, on the other hand. Hold on to your pencil, Dr. Kinsey. Pam is as gay, fresh and romantic as a lark.

[Pamela North]

I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love. I'm in love with a wonderful guy.

[Jerry North]

Pamela, you are not Mary Martin, and I am not Ezio Pinza. So will you do me a favor? Don't be so gay until I've had my first cup of coffee.

[Pamela North]

Anything, my sweet. Oh, I'm sorry. You're mailed. Now drink your coffee. I'm in love.

[Jerry North]

Ma'am, please. Here. Here's a letter for you. Maybe you would like to read it, dear, while I have my coffee.

[Pamela North]

Thank you. Dear Mrs. North, you don't know me, but I'm the type of woman who believes in calling a spade a spade. And ours. Gerald.

[Jerry North]

Who's it from, dear?

[Pamela North]

My mother, you beast.

[Jerry North]

What did I say?

[Pamela North]

Oh, nothing. Gerald met me at the rumba taxi dance hall where I'm trying to make an honest buck as a diamond dance hostess. After 20 cents worth with Jerry, I know it's love and it's mutual.

[Jerry North]

What's your mother right, dear?

[Pamela North]

She's taken up the rumba. You. I think you and I ought to sit down and discuss it like civilized people so that we can dispense with Jerry to our mutual satisfaction. Yours sincerely, Honey Joan.

[Jerry North]

Well, let me see the letter.

[Pamela North]

Oh, no, you don't.

[Jerry North]

Where are you going?

[Pamela North]

Do I ask you where you've been? Will you tell me? You're working late at the office.

[Jerry North]

Pam, where are you going?

[Pamela North]

I may going home to mother's.

[Jerry North]

Pam. Pam, come back here. Is that you, darling? No, it's me, sweetie.

[Pamela North]

All right.

[Jerry North]

Your missus just took the elevator. I'm glad for the chance of having you all to myself. Who are you? Tony Jones. You recognize the name? No. And what do you mean coming? Does Honey mean anything to you? I never touched the stuff. But you call Honey stuff, wise guy. She's my wife. Listen, my name is Jerry North. N o R T H. I know. Bad enough my wife working in a taxi dance hall, but I ain't gonna stand for customers getting fresh with her. That I ain't gonna stand for. I tell you, Mr. Jones, I've never shut up and listened. If I find out that you've been seeing her again, I'll kill you with my own bare hands. Now stand up. What for? Because I want to knock you down.

[Pamela North]

Are you Honey Jones? That's the name on the door, isn't it? Your name's going to be mud when I get through with you. Oh, you must see Mrs. Nor. Won't you come in, dear? Don't you dare me, you Jezebel. The name's Honey. Come on in. Oh, I'm kind of disappointed that Jerry didn't come along with me. Why? So you could both laugh in my face? Oh, you've been seeing too many movies. Listen, why don't you call him up in time to come over so we can talk it over? Cozy. Oh, no. After all he's done seeing you when he says he's working late. Now, wait, Mrs. Knorr. I might as well tell you. Your husband and I, we don't mean a thing to each other. It's all a joke. That's a likely story. Honest. I've been writing a book about my experiences. It's a great book. Oh, that's an old line if I ever heard one. Come up and see my manuscript sometime. What's the truth, Mrs. North? I've been trying to see Mr. North at his office, but I couldn't get past his secretary.

[Jerry North]

That's why I wrote you that letter.

[Pamela North]

I was sure it would bring you and Mr. North of running. Then I'd be able to give him my manuscript. It's a wonderful story, all about my experiences. Wait, I got it right here in my desk. Was right to you. Oh, it was. I tell you it was. I'm sure I had it. I sure should. Gone stone stolen. What am I gonna do? Well, that's easy. Make up another story. Oh, you fool. Get out of here. I've gotta find out who Chuck is. Stop acting with me, honey. Does this convince you that I'm not acting? Mrs. North, you can put away that gun, honey. I'm. Taxi. Taxi.

[Jerry North]

Hop in, lady. Where to? All right. How many guesses do I get?

[Pamela North]

Maybe she's telling the truth. Oh, and then we'll go ahead. What are you standing here for? Take me home. No, no, hold it.

[Jerry North]

What's the matter?

[Pamela North]

That's my husband. He's going into the building. Oh, take me away from here.

[Jerry North]

Well, will you tell me for the last time where your home is?

[Pamela North]

Who said anything about taking me home? Take me to police headquarters.

[Jerry North]

No, no, Mrs. North, don't carry on so.

[Pamela North]

Why shouldn't I, Mullins? I have every right to going into her building at Ann in broad daylight.

[Jerry North]

Well, now, there might be a very simple explanation to it, Mrs. North.

[Pamela North]

Yes, of course there is. He's going up there to see Honey Mullins. Where have I failed as a wife? You tell me.

[Jerry North]

Oh, you haven't, Mrs. North. You've been a sweet, devoted her.

[Pamela North]

Oh, damn, damn.

[Jerry North]

Please don't carry on.

[Pamela North]

I'm sure it's easy for you to say. There, there. You're not in love with Jerry, you know.

[Jerry North]

Take a sip of this coffee while he answers the telephone. Sergeant Mullins, Homicide. Mullins. This is Jerry North. Oh, Mr. North, it's your husband, Mrs. North.

[Pamela North]

Oh, let me at the.

[Jerry North]

Hold on now, Mrs. North. You get your chance. Well, Mr. North, you ought to be ashamed of yourself. A fighting little woman like Mrs. North. You won't telephone. Mullins, listen to me. I'm over at a girl's house. Her name's Honey Jones. Have you no shame, Matt? Mullins, I'm trying to tell you something. You sure got a lot of explaining to do, Mr. North. Honey Jones. Indeed, that's the name. Mullins. Get over here as fast as you can. She's been shot to death. That's all there is to tell, Mullins. After that gorilla Tony slugged me, I wanted to find out what it was all about. I looked up Honey's name, came here and found her lying across a bed.

[Pamela North]

Tell us the truth, Jerry. We'll stick by you. I'm a woman, the woman you once loved. I'll forgive you.

[Jerry North]

Oh, for goodness sake, Pam, stop behaving like Joan Crawford. Well, it all seems to tie together with what you told us about that book business, Mrs. North.

[Pamela North]

Oh, I hope for Jerry's sake that you're right, Mullen.

[Jerry North]

Ah, Mrs. North, I might as well tell you. No Mr. North of Darling Boy. And so far as I'm concerned, he's not under suspicion at all.

[Pamela North]

Oh, Jerry, darling, I'm so happy for you.

[Jerry North]

Now she's Betty Davis. Now, if this Tory fellow is out avenging his wife's dubious honor, I wonder where we would find her men friends? The Rumba Taxi Dance Hall.

[Pamela North]

Mullins, if I could get a job as a hostess at the Rumba Dance Palace, I might be able to get some information from the other girls as to where we could find Honey's husband.

[Jerry North]

I absolutely forbid and let the police worry about the murderer.

[Pamela North]

Ah, 10 cents a dance, big boy. Come on, handsome, buy the little girl a fistful of tickets now, pam.

[Jerry North]

Good idea, Mrs. Norton. I absolutely forbid my wife to enter one of those places.

[Pamela North]

Ah, forget your wife, big boy. You're talking to Cuddles now. She'll make you forget.

[Jerry North]

Not bad, Cuddle, not bad. Turn around again.

[Pamela North]

Well, do I get the job, Mr. Snarks?

[Jerry North]

The girls all call me Eric. Hey, you fill out that evening gown pretty good, huh?

[Pamela North]

Thanks, you're kind, sir.

[Jerry North]

Come here, baby. Let's try a little dance together.

[Pamela North]

There's no music.

[Jerry North]

What is it? We can make beautiful music together.

[Pamela North]

Oh, you fret.

[Jerry North]

Oh, the little girl is blushing. Well, you loosen up later. Look, baby, let me give you a couple of pointers. First of all, keep your eyes and ears open.

[Pamela North]

What do you mean?

[Jerry North]

When a guy's dancing with you, just let him talk and remember what he says.

[Pamela North]

What guy?

[Jerry North]

Any guy, kind of. You never know what you can write about a guy. What's the old expression? Knowledge. His power.

[Pamela North]

I think I understand. Eric.

[Jerry North]

You and I will get along, baby. Feel free to come into my office. Anytime and we can talk.

[Pamela North]

I'll do that little thing. Honey said you were a regular guy.

[Jerry North]

Yes, Honey. What do you know about Honey?

[Pamela North]

It was on my arm. You hurt me. What's the matter with you?

[Jerry North]

Well, you're a friend of Honey's, huh? Well, I shouldn't hold that against you.

[Pamela North]

What does she do?

[Jerry North]

Nothing. But she ain't the type girl I like working in my place. I fired her.

[Pamela North]

Well, that's funny. I saw her this morning and she said she was coming to work tonight.

[Jerry North]

She was here tonight?

[Pamela North]

She was here tonight?

[Jerry North]

Sure. She left a few minutes before you came in.

[Pamela North]

Well, I think I better be getting out on the floor.

[Jerry North]

Wait a minute. I ain't letting you go yet.

[Pamela North]

What's the matter? What did I do?

[Jerry North]

You didn't do nothing. I just want you to have a drink. I keep my good stuff under lock and key.

[Pamela North]

I see. What's that?

[Jerry North]

Scotch?

[Pamela North]

No, that blue covered thing.

[Jerry North]

It's nothing.

[Pamela North]

Looks like a book somebody's been writing. Are you a writer, Alice?

[Jerry North]

Have your drink.

[Pamela North]

Some of my best friends are writers.

[Jerry North]

Good luck, Cuddles.

[Pamela North]

Honey once told me she was writing.

[Jerry North]

Down and get out of here.

[Pamela North]

Well, you only live once.

[Jerry North]

Yeah, just remember that, Cuddles. Just remember that. Mull. I can't stand. But look at those men ogling us. Take it easy, Mr. Knob. Mrs. Kn's doing fine. Yeah, I've got a hunch we'll find the murderer here yet. This is easier than finding out things by setting the suspects up against the wall. At least we know now where Honey's manuscript is. Well, why don't we arrest this Eric Captain character and get it over with? He lied when he told Pam Honey was here tonight. Be patient. We will, Mr. North. I really believe you're enjoying this. Don't be silly, Mr. North at all. In the line of duty. My, what lovely girl, huh? My little one with a black dress he's built. Listen, brother, she happened. My friend here don't like this place. He wants to leave. Well, I can hardly blame him. He's a quiet type like myself. This is the first time I've been up here. It's a way of keeping out of the rain. Hornswigger is the name. It's not very likely you have seen me before. Unless, of course, you've been in Connecticut, and that's where I'm from. Oh. Oh, dear me. What's the matter? Before? Nothing. I was wondering. You said. Oh, dear me. I was just looking the girls over. You see anyone you like and not tonight. There was A beauty over here a couple of nights ago, about 5:2 with eyes of blue and golden hair the color of honey. As a matter of fact, her name was Honey you'd like. Yes, yes, I know. But where is she tonight? Oh, you know her? Well, I danced with her once. A charming girl. I thought you said you were never up here before. Oh, dear me, did I say that? Excuse me, gentlemen. I'm going over to the bar and have a drink. What do you think, Mom? You think he's worth investigating? Mr. North.

[Pamela North]

Hello, Mullen. Did you find out anything yet?

[Jerry North]

Well, not about the murder, Mrs. North, but you see the man going over to the bar, his name's Horn Swing. Get him to dance with you. Why, he does anything.

[Pamela North]

You can try.

[Jerry North]

I absolutely confident I danced with my coat. I had to.

[Pamela North]

Hiya, handsome.

[Jerry North]

Go away, little girl. I'm not interested in dancing.

[Pamela North]

Oh, come on, handsome, be a little sociable.

[Jerry North]

Will you please stop bothering me.

[Pamela North]

Oh, you're the frigid kind, aren't you? That ain't the way Honey said you are.

[Jerry North]

Oh. Shall we dance?

[Pamela North]

Delighted.

[Jerry North]

What do you know about Honey?

[Pamela North]

I'm only her best friend, that's what I know about Honey. Say, you dance divine.

[Jerry North]

Your name, miss?

[Pamela North]

They call me Cuddles because I like to cuddle up when I dance like this. You like it?

[Jerry North]

Dear me.

[Pamela North]

Have you seen Honey lately?

[Jerry North]

No, I haven't.

[Pamela North]

Are you accepting her up here?

[Jerry North]

No, not particularly. That is, I was.

[Pamela North]

He won't be here tonight, you know. You don't seem surprised.

[Jerry North]

Other fish in the sea, you know.

[Pamela North]

Thank you, sir. Still, Honey was in a class by herself.

[Jerry North]

I don't know what you mean.

[Pamela North]

Well, she doesn't like us girls. She was more the intellectual side. Well, do you know she even wrote a book? Mr. Hornswigger don't want me to tie to hurting me.

[Jerry North]

Oh dear, I am sorry. What do you know about the book?

[Pamela North]

What do I know about it? What does the end know about robots? I practically helped her with it.

[Jerry North]

Now listen to me, my dear. I pay a lot of money to get a hold of that manuscript.

[Pamela North]

Say, you are a cultured type man, ain't you? But you don't have to Worry no more, Mr. Horner. She can't black name you no more. You know why? Cuz someone killed her, huh? Careful, Mr. Horner. You stepped on my toe.

[Jerry North]

What were you saying?

[Pamela North]

I was saying.

[Jerry North]

Never mind, I heard you. When did it happen?

[Pamela North]

It happened this morning. You ought to know I. I don't.

[Jerry North]

Feel like dancing anymore, Cubble. Will you excuse me?

[Pamela North]

I wouldn't try to leave this place if I were you, Mr. Hornswigger. That gentleman over there is my husband, and the other one is from the police.

[Jerry North]

Oh. Oh, dear me. I. I think I'm going to go to life.

[Pamela North]

Oh, no, you can't. You can't do that. Jerry. Roland.

[Jerry North]

What's the matter, ma'am?

[Pamela North]

He painted right in my arms. I told him about Honey's being murdered.

[Jerry North]

Good girl. Yeah. Put his arm right. Take him into the lounge. Come along now, Mr. Horner.

[Pamela North]

Jerry, I think Mr. Horner could have done it. Honey was black nailing him.

[Jerry North]

Come on, let's tell Mullen and then I'm getting you out of here.

[Pamela North]

No, Jerry, not yet. Maybe it wasn't Mr. Horn Weger at all.

[Jerry North]

Don't you just.

[Pamela North]

Well, I know, but her husband could have done it because he's jealous. Eric could have done it because he just looks mean. And then there's a horn.

[Jerry North]

Here's a lounge. Mullins.

[Pamela North]

Mullins. Mullins, G. Look, he's unconscious. Mr. Hornswiger is gone. Are you all right, Molly?

[Jerry North]

Of course I'm not all right. What a deceitful little man. Wait till I get my hands on him. What happened, Mullen? I laid him down at the couch and turned him back to get him a glass of water. And he must have slugged me over. The shame if it was runt like that. Hey, Mulles, where you going? Outside. I want to find out when we saw me.

[Pamela North]

Oh, poor Mary. Jerry, look, the window's open.

[Jerry North]

There's a ledge running all around the building.

[Pamela North]

Let's see where it leads to. Darling, it may lead us to the murderer.

[Jerry North]

It's going to lead us into trouble. Hey, Pam, get off that ledge.

[Pamela North]

Jerry, there's a window about 10ft to the right of me.

[Jerry North]

All right, steady now. I'll go with you.

[Pamela North]

Mr. Jesse. If I look down.

[Jerry North]

For goodness sake, don't look. Walk slowly and hug your side of the building the way you hugged your dance customers all night.

[Pamela North]

This is no time for you to be jealous. Oh, be quiet, darling. Coming to the window. Maybe somebody in that room.

[Jerry North]

Jerry, it's Eric's office and there is somebody in there. There's Mr. Hornswigger stretched out on the rug.

[Pamela North]

You don't think he's dead yet?

[Jerry North]

I think we'll be if we stay on this ledge much longer. Let's see if this window will open. Good. Hop in, ma'am.

[Pamela North]

Easy, Jared. Blood on Mr. Horns for his head.

[Jerry North]

Still breathing. What's the idea of coming into my office, Eric? Who are you, Mr. I'll tell you who I am.

[Pamela North]

He's a customer, Eric.

[Jerry North]

My office is off limits to customers. Now be it not until we call the police. There's a telephone on his desk, Pam. I thought the name was Cuddle. That's enough of that. She's my wife, Mr. Snark. And my name's North. I thought there was something phony about you, Cuddles. Who are you and what do you want?

[Pamela North]

We don't want very much, Mr. Snark. All we want is to find out who murdered Honey and. And why you did it.

[Jerry North]

Oh, ain't you the cute one.

[Pamela North]

Her manuscript is in that desk, Jerry.

[Jerry North]

Well, we'll take a little look. No you won't, mister. Not even a peek? I ain't running no circulating library. But I am going to turn this office into a shooting garage. You don't stand where you are.

[Pamela North]

Careful. He's got a gun.

[Jerry North]

I'm hardly breathing. I can put a stop to that too. Who's that other guy that was with you? Mister, that's the police. The police? You really pile me up. Now I lose my license. All right, you can relax, North. I'm putting the gun away. I thought I could keep it quiet, but it's too late now. You can get on that phone and call the police.

[Pamela North]

I mean you. You're confessing.

[Jerry North]

What kind of a jerk do you take me for? I didn't do it.

[Pamela North]

You stole her manuscript from her? Sure.

[Jerry North]

I wanted to read it. I find out she's running a little blackmail racket on the side. I told if she didn't cut it out, I'd mess her up real good. I got to protect my customers. You've got a novel way of protecting your customers, Mr. Snark. Oh, you mean Hornswigger, huh? What would you do, Mr. North, if some wild eyed little jerk comes jumping through your window and accuse you of blackmailing. Who's there?

[Pamela North]

Must be Sergeant Mullins. Come in, Mullins.

[Jerry North]

Tony, my plan to see you.

[Pamela North]

Who is he?

[Jerry North]

Joe Honey's husband. He's the one who hit me. I remember when I was in high school, Eric, we used to sing a song that was something about the punishment. Bits and a cry. You played around with honey, Mr. North, so I hit you. But you, Eric, you murdered him. But what you're getting is going to fit the crime perfect. You're crazy, Tony. I didn't do it. Put down that gun.

[Pamela North]

Stop him, Gary.

[Jerry North]

Listen, Tony. Now you listen, Mr. Noise. Listen. The noise a gun makes when it kills a rat. Oh, what's going on here? Get up, Horn. Swagger. You're just in turn to see your man shot to death. I didn't do it. I fought. I know it. It's Mark who I'm giving it to. Listen to reasons, Tony. Turn around and stand up against that wall.

[Pamela North]

Jerry, I can't bear it.

[Jerry North]

Tony, you're making a big mistake. No, I'm not making a mistake. There's a bullet in Honey's chest. She's dead. And this is the gun that did it. And that's the rat who pulled the trigger. Tony, I. I can't let an innocent man die. You say she was killed with that gun. He was lying right next to her. Oh, I did it, Tony.

[Pamela North]

Jerry, you didn't.

[Jerry North]

I'm sorry, Pence. You a devil. I couldn't get her out of my blood. I couldn't stand the thought of anyone else having it. I don't believe a word if you're struggling to save this jerk's life. Am I? Well, look in the magazine of the gun. You'll see two bullets still in there. I couldn't know that unless I handled the gun. Well, I'll see you in a second. Get a mir.

[Pamela North]

Help. Help.

[Jerry North]

Mother. That's better than.

[Pamela North]

Oh, Jerry. For a moment I almost felt believed.

[Jerry North]

You believe what, Mr. North?

[Pamela North]

Jerry confessed. Well, but he didn't do it.

[Jerry North]

Good for him. Thanks, Mr. North. Tony's your murderer, Sergeant. And he's a madman. Sergeant Wigger. So there you are, you little.

[Pamela North]

Dear me, Sergeant, you must find it.

[Jerry North]

In your heart to forgive me for knocking you out. I was frightened. I. I acted on impulse.

[Pamela North]

Oh, Mullin, forget about him. Tony's your murderer.

[Jerry North]

No, I didn't do it, I tell you. Eric killed her, Sergeant. He tried to turn her into a blackmailer. Sure, I hated what Honey did working here in this creek joint. I was taking care of her men, friends in my own way. At least she was mine part of the time. But I wouldn't see her at all if she was in jail on a blackmail rap. That's where she belongs, I tell you. No, Sergeant. She wasn't interested in making dough that way. She really had the right involved. He's right, Mullins. Honey wouldn't have gone to all the trouble to see me if she weren't serious about getting a manuscript published. Eric is the real blackmailer. He killed her for the manuscript. I tell her I was only taking it to re she was the blackmailer. He's a liar, Sergeant. Blackmail never entered that dear, sweet girl's head. He has the book in his possession. I'm sure. I. I was willing to pay $10,000 to keep it out of print. He wouldn't take it. He wanted 20,000. He hit me when I insisted. Oh, okay. Me, my. Oh, you kids got it figured out real smart, haven't you? You got yourself the perfect patsy. Well, you'll do until somebody better comes along. You're coming down to headquarters with me.

[Pamela North]

Oh, just a minute, Mullins. Mr. Hornswigger, you didn't approve of Honey's book, did you?

[Jerry North]

Well, of course I didn't, Mrs. North. It would have ruined me. I offered her money, but that didn't interest her. Recognition as a writer was much, much more important to us. I suspected, of course, that this Snark fellow had a copy of the manuscript and his motive was blackmail. So I was willing to pay him. Well, that's clear to me. Thank you, Mr. North.

[Pamela North]

Well, it's not clear to me, Mr. Hornsburger. When did you first learn that Honey was murdered?

[Jerry North]

Why, when you told me on the dance floor. Don't you remember? What are you driving at, Mrs. North?

[Pamela North]

Only this Mullins, you. He was willing to pay me for the original manuscript of that book before I told him that Honey was dead. Why should you do that, Mr. Hornswiger? Honey could still write another one. Mr. Hornswiger, you were interested in that manuscript because you knew that Honey couldn't write another one. Because you knew that Honey was murdered before I told you you killed her.

[Jerry North]

Oh. You realize what you're saying? I think I do. Hornswicker. Stay away from me.

[Pamela North]

Hey. Talk.

[Jerry North]

You let him go. Let him go. Horner, you're going to confess.

[Pamela North]

Yes. Yes.

[Jerry North]

I did it.

[Pamela North]

I did it.

[Jerry North]

She wouldn't listen to reason.

[Pamela North]

Horn wingers and honored name in Connecticut.

[Jerry North]

My reputation would have been ruined. I, I, I had to.

[Pamela North]

How are you feeling this morning, darling?

[Jerry North]

The usual.

[Pamela North]

I'm in love. I'm in love.

[Jerry North]

Ma'am, I told you I was feeling the usual. Will you cut it out? At least until I've had my first cup of coffee.

[Pamela North]

Ah, did you have a hard night at the office?

[Jerry North]

Yes, I worked a long hours, poor dear.

[Pamela North]

By the way, when I hung your shoes up this morning, darling, I found these tickets in the process.

[Jerry North]

Tickets?

[Pamela North]

Yes, from the Rue de la Paix dance hall.

[Jerry North]

Really? I wonder how they could have gotten there.

[Pamela North]

I'll give you just two seconds to think up a good excuse.

[Jerry North]

Well, as a matter of fact. Oh, now, Pam, really. I was going to tell you about it. Mullins asked me to go up with him. He wanted to do a little investigation about the blackmail business and I helped there. I mean, I. I really didn't enjoy it. A minute of it. Bam. You know how those hot, stuffy dance all. Oh, it's quite a chore. Those dark lights in my eyes. The adventures of Mr. And Mrs. North are brought to you through the facilities of the United States Armed Forces Radio Service, the voice of information and education.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. I've heard of writers doing a lot to get published, but Honey's claiming to have an affair with Jerry to get Pam and him to come over was next level. If not for her unfortunate end, there are probably some writers conferences where they'd consider having her spake. Once again, we get to hear Alice Frost versatility in creating the dancer cuddles, while the Hummerts were the ones who explicitly made it a stated regular element of the series. With Mr. Chameleon, there are multiple shows where having a lead who is a very strong character actor means more instances than you might think of. Having them pretend to be someone else entirely with a different voice and accent. I not only think of Mr. Chameleon, but the New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes with Basil Rathbone. They had Sherlock Holmes create characters a lot more than you would hear in the Tom Conway or John Stanley eras. Whether it's to keep the actor happy or just because it's another element for the creative team to know. We can ask for this and the star will deliver. It does seem to be a tool that gets used. I'm glad Pam was able to make sense of that cacophony of accusations and counter accusations at the end and resolve it. While she did just pick up a careless statement from the killer. This seems a bit more analytical than some of the other instances we've seen her use that technique to solve the case. On a sad note, this episode was only 10 days behind the Broadway's My Beat episode we played yesterday. It says something about the number of missing Mr. And Mrs. North episodes that when we first started playing this series, Broadway's My beat was about six and a half years ahead. And next week, the Mr. And Mrs. North episode will be after the Broadway's My Beat episode by a good bit. Just an incredible number of lost episodes in this series. On a bright note, we are going to be playing episodes of the Mr. & Mrs. North TV show with Richard Denning and Barbara Britton starting this weekend on Public Domain Video Theater. So watch for that now, of course, available on Spotify, but also still available in the places it's always been over on Apple podcast and on YouTube. Well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Jenny. Jenny's been one of our patreon supporters since December 2023, currently supporting the podcast at the detective Sergeant level of $7.14 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Jenny. And that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. If you're enjoying the podcast on YouTube, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and mark the notification bell. All those great things that help YouTube channels to grow. We'll be back next Thursday with another episode of Mr. And Mrs. North, but join us back here tomorrow for yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Pamela North]

Where Jerry Dunsmuir.

[Jerry North]

Who's he?

[Pamela North]

A fashion photographer. A creep. Mr. Dollar. Oh, the real article. Believe me, they ought to put that guy's eyes in jail.

[Jerry North]

You've modeled for him before?

[Pamela North]

About a year ago, I swore I'd never do it again, and I didn't until yesterday.

[Jerry North]

Well, go on.

[Pamela North]

Jerry got me commissioned to do a spread on winter fashion. He wanted to make some street shots with me and tweeds, things like that.

[Jerry North]

Street shot?

[Pamela North]

Well, I figured the street would be a lot safer for me than his studio.

[Jerry North]

But it didn't turn out that way, huh?

[Pamela North]

No. After the second picture, he started in again with the same old line. And he's not very subtle, believe me.

[Jerry North]

So?

[Pamela North]

So I walked out on him. He didn't like it.

[Jerry North]

But is that enough reason for him to break into your apartment and slug you?

[Pamela North]

It wouldn't be for most people. But like I say, he's.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatetectives.net follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idah. This is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.