Mr. and Mrs. North: Frisbie Proves His Point (EP4578)

Summary

Episode Summary: Mr. and Mrs. North: Frisbie Proves His Point (EP4578)

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
• Host: Adam Graham
• Episode Release Date: December 19, 2024
• Podcast Description: Daily audio dramas featuring classic radio detectives from the Golden Age of Radio, including insightful commentary and listener engagement.

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1. Episode Overview

In this episode of Mr. and Mrs. North, titled "Frisbie Proves His Point," listeners are transported into a captivating mystery where fiction and reality intertwine. Hosted by Adam Graham, the episode delves into a plot that blurs the lines between scripted drama and real-life investigation, showcasing the ingenuity of old-time radio storytelling.

2. Plot Summary

Setting the Scene: The story unfolds in the bustling Times Square, where Jerry North arranges to meet his colleague, Frisbee Clisby, a renowned mystery rider known for his unconventional methods. Accompanied by his wife, Pam North, Jerry anticipates Frisbee’s demonstration of a flawless murder—an act intended purely for illustrative purposes.

The Demonstration Turns Deadly: As the trio navigates through the crowded streets, Frisbee executes his demonstration by staging a murder in the heart of the bustling crowd. However, the act takes a lethal turn when the victim remains motionless, revealing real blood and confirming that the murder wasn’t entirely fictional.

Frisbee Clisby (04:59): "I should allow myself to be browbeaten by a watch, a mere mechanical gadget."

Investigation Commences: Determined to uncover the truth, Jerry and Pam engage in a dialogue with Frisbee, questioning the authenticity of the murder. Their investigation leads them to discover a letter from Shirley Anderson, the deceased’s fiancée, breaking off their engagement—an essential clue that suggests deeper motives behind the murder.

Pam North (22:13): "I don't know." Frisbee Clisby (22:15): "I have the gun, too. That's what I went for."

Twists and Revelations: As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that Frisbee’s demonstration has inadvertently masked a real murder. The plot thickens with the introduction of Stuart Payne, a character whose emotions and relationships become pivotal in unraveling the mystery. Payne's entanglement with Shirley Anderson and his subsequent actions lead to the unveiling of the true murderer.

Climactic Conclusion: In a dramatic twist, Stuart Payne is exposed as the actual culprit. His desperate attempts to manipulate the situation and his flawed perception of justice culminate in his downfall. The episode concludes with Mr. and Mrs. North successfully presenting evidence to the authorities, ensuring that justice is served.

Jack Webb as Lieutenant Wigan (27:05): "What do you know? I told Bill we caught the murderer."

3. Character Analysis

• Frisbee Clisby: Initially portrayed as a methodical mystery rider, Frisbee’s character embodies the classic trope of the detective blurring the lines between fiction and reality. His overconfidence in demonstrating a perfect murder inadvertently leads to a genuine crime, showcasing the unpredictability inherent in his methods.

• Jerry North: As a steadfast and analytical partner, Jerry exemplifies the quintessential detective's pursuit of truth. His ability to adapt and think critically under pressure drives the investigation forward, highlighting his role as the pillar of rationality in the narrative.

• Pam North: Jerry’s wife, Pam, brings a humanizing element to the story. Her interactions with Jerry and Frisbee add depth to the characters, balancing the tension with moments of levity and emotional resonance.

• Stuart Payne: Introduced later in the episode, Stuart’s character serves as the catalyst for the plot's resolution. His complex relationship with Shirley Anderson and his ultimate revelation as the murderer add layers of intrigue and emotional complexity to the story.

4. Notable Quotes

• Frisbee Clisby (03:32): "The two turtle doves of crime are on the loose again with their usual unpredictable results."

• Jerry North (06:04): "I publish Frisbee's books for years."

• Stuart Payne (19:46): "I did kill Bud."

• Lt. Wigan (27:05): "What do you know? I told Bill we caught the murderer."

These quotes underscore pivotal moments in the narrative, capturing the essence of character motivations and the unfolding mystery.

5. Host Commentary: Insights into Scriptwriting

After the immersive storytelling, Adam Graham provides insightful commentary on the episode's structure and thematic elements. He highlights how the episode cleverly integrates meta-narrative techniques, where characters within the story critique their own fictional plots. This self-referential approach adds a layer of complexity, engaging listeners in a dialogue about the nature of storytelling itself.

Graham also draws parallels between the scriptwriting guidelines mentioned in the episode and real-world scriptwriting contests. He shares his personal experience participating in such contests, emphasizing the importance of writing longer scripts to maintain quality and reduce the need for padding, which can detract from the narrative's integrity.

Adam Graham (34:04): "The reason why they said to write long rather than short is that if something needs cut, you can still preserve the quality of the piece."

6. Listener Feedback: Accents and Character Portrayal

Addressing listener comments, Adam Graham engages in a discussion about the portrayal of accents in classic radio dramas, specifically the Bulldog Drummond series. A listener expressed concerns over a character with a New York accent portraying a British character, which some found distracting compared to previous portrayals with authentic British accents.

Graham acknowledges the feedback, explaining the evolution of character portrayals over time and the subjective nature of accent authenticity. He reflects on different actors' approaches to accentuation, noting that while some listeners found certain accents jarring, others appreciated the high-status portrayal despite the regional inflection.

Adam Graham (34:12): "Ned Weaver made a choice to play Bulldog Drummond without a British accent, but it wasn't like some sort of working-class accent he played."

7. Conclusion

Mr. and Mrs. North: Frisbie Proves His Point masterfully combines classic detective storytelling with innovative narrative techniques, engaging listeners through its intricate plot and well-developed characters. Adam Graham’s thoughtful commentary enriches the listening experience, providing deeper insights into scriptwriting and character portrayal in old-time radio dramas.

The episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to appreciate the craftsmanship behind radio detective series, celebrating their enduring legacy and timeless appeal.

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Transcript

[Rick Julius]

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[Geico Voice]

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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, we're going to get into this Week's episode of Mr. And Mrs. North. I do want to encourage you. If you are enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. As I said yesterday, this is not a Christmas episode as There is no Mr. And Mrs. North Christmas episode available. That is a shame because after hearing what they did with Columbus Day, I'm sure their Christmas special would have been with gusto. However, you can find all of the Christmas episodes we featured not only this year, but going all the way back to 2009 by checking out our Christmas feed at christmasfeed.greatdetectives.net that's Christmas feed.greatdetectives.net well, between 1943 and 1944 we have 13 episodes of Mr. And Mrs. North that are in circulation, which is a bit more than 10% of the episodes that were released during this time period. Unfortunately, after 1944 the episodes get a lot more sparse and we actually only have five episodes for the rest of the 1940s. But there are Mr. And Mrs. North episodes with Joseph Curtin and Alice frost in the 1950s. But still, we're dealing with a lot of lost episodes. That said, from January 17th of 1945, here is the episode Frisbee proves his point.

[Peter Lorre]

Well, it wasn't supposed to be a real murder. No, it was just a demonstration of how one might be committed. And when a make believe was over, everyone was surprised that the victim still lay there until he noticed the widening pool of blood. Real blood. Hello, creeps. This is Peter Laurie opening the doors. The Mystery Playhouse. Well, till it's off again, Mr. And Mrs. North are on the scene. Yes, the two turtle doves of crime are on the loose again with their usual unpredictable results. The whole thing starts when Jerry north promises to meet Frisbee Clisby, the mystery rider, on the street corner at Times Square during the rush hour. He should have known that anyone with a name like that could only mean trouble. But be that that it may, he and Pam find themselves bucking this Times Square crowd as they wait for Frisbee.

[Pam North]

Oh, Jerry, I wish people would stop pushing and shoving.

[Rick Julius]

You can't expect miracles, darling.

[Pam North]

Only everybody would stand right where they are until everybody else got out of the way somehow.

[Rick Julius]

I'm afraid that wouldn't work.

[Pam North]

Total strangers walking all over my feet, kicking me in the shin.

[Rick Julius]

What's that got to do with it?

[Pam North]

Darling, my feet are being squashed to a pulp.

[Rick Julius]

I meant the total strangers. Would your feet feel any better if acquaintances were set to your move?

[Pam North]

Well, at least there wouldn't be so many. There are more people I don't know than I do know.

[Rick Julius]

Oh, well, anyway, it's. Oh, here comes Frisbee.

[Pam North]

Oh, thank heavens. Now maybe we can get him get away from here.

[Rick Julius]

Hello, Pam. Hello, Jerry. Time fooey. I should allow myself to be browbeaten by a watch, a mere mechanical gadget. Okay, free soul anyway. Come on now, let's get out of this crowd. Why? What's wrong with the crowd?

[Pam North]

It's too crowded.

[Rick Julius]

Another illusion shattered. What's that? I thought you nor loved your fellow man.

[Pam North]

We do, but we don't like him walking all over us.

[Rick Julius]

Sorry, but the crowd is part of my plan. What plan? Jerry, my boy, I'm going to prove to you that when I write a murder, it's murder. You said Snorty couldn't get away with it. I don't think he could.

[Pam North]

Who's Snorty?

[Rick Julius]

A character in my book. Commits a murder. A beautiful murder. In the crowd.

[Pam North]

In a crowd? But wouldn't somebody notice?

[Rick Julius]

That's just the point. Not. Not if there was a distraction. Not if there was a distraction. Sorry, Frisbee. I still don't believe it. I'll take the story, but you've got to change that scene. I'll starve first. Okay, so I wouldn't starve. He's got me there, Pam. I like to eat too much. Ah, me selling my soul for a bowl of sort. It's filet mignon. Brother, and you know it. Well, anyway, the principle's the same, or the lack of principle. But I won't have you murdering my murders. After all, there's a limit to what an artist will tolerate. I'm sorry, Frisbee. I just can't believe that. Look, look, look. You believe this is a crowd, don't you? Definitely. Well, if I were to kill somebody right here, right now, in front of all these people and nobody noticed but Frisbee, then would you take that scene, Jerry? Oh, stop it, fella. What's the use of. Would you? Would you? Well, naturally, but. Okay. That's all I wanted to know.

[Pam North]

Frisbee, you don't really mean that. You really.

[Rick Julius]

Why don't you look where you're going? Well, as a matter of fact, I wasn't going anywhere. I was just standing here. Oh, a wise guy, huh? Hardly. Now, look, stranger, why don't you run along and leave me alone? Oh, you want to get rid of me, huh? I suppose I ain't good enough to talk to you. Okay, okay. Hang around if it'll make you happy. Now, what were you saying?

[Pam North]

Christine?

[Rick Julius]

Wait a minute. Wait a minute. I ain't true with you yet. Oh, sorry.

[Pam North]

How?

[Rick Julius]

I said I'm sorry. What kind of a way to talk is that? What do you mean? Don't you know you've been insulted? I hadn't noticed. Gee, Mr. Crispy, I don't know what to do with him. He don't want to fight. Sock him. Huh? Go on, sock him.

[Pam North]

Why, Frisbee.

[Rick Julius]

Well, what are you waiting for, Punchy? I can't sock a guy unless he makes me mad. Thank you, Punchy. You so great delicacy of feeling. Why, you. Oh, what's the matter now? Delicate, am I?

[Pam North]

Kicked out?

[Rick Julius]

I'll show you who's delicate, your dirty rat. Oh. Hey, you knocked me down. So I did. Hey, maybe I am delicate, or maybe I'm not. Well, did you see me do it? Did you see me do it? What? With a murder? What are you talking about? Come here. What is it? Look in that doorway. See that fella lying on the steps?

[Pam North]

Oh, Frisbee.

[Rick Julius]

Looks just like a drunk, doesn't it? Wait a minute. Wait a minute. That ain't no drunk. Ah, you keep out of this. I've seen what I seen with my own two eyes. I did. I was standing right here on this spot. What's your name, sir? Me? Yes. Gerald North. I'm pleased to meet you, Mr. North. My name's Willis Cutfoot Willis. And I'm Prepared to testify? I am. I ain't afraid. He can't intimidate me. He can. What are you talking about? Your friend. Yeah, I seen him. He is your friend, ain't he? Yes. Well, it just goes to show you ought to be more careful. Kind of friend you choose. I seen what he did. I give up. I positively give up. Well, I should hope so. I still say it would have worked, Jerry. If only Punchy it put up any kind of a fight. Are you referring to me, Mr. Clisby? Yes, Punchy, I am. Why did you let him knock you down so fast? If you'd only created a real disturbance, nobody would have noticed me. Oh, gee, I'm sorry, Mr. Clisby. I'm afraid it's like this fella says. I have great delicacy of feelings. And I guess tonight I was feeling extra delicate. Oh, it spoiled my fuse. You stabbed him.

[Pam North]

You did.

[Rick Julius]

I saw it with a knife.

[Pam North]

Frisbee, you didn't. Not really.

[Rick Julius]

Oh, no, of course. Come on, Bud, get up. How can he get up? You killed him. Nonsense. Do I look like a lunatic? Okay, so looks are only skin deep. Now, look, Jerry, I wouldn't really kill a guy just to prove a point.

[Pam North]

Oh, thank heavens for that.

[Rick Julius]

But I did go through the motions. And no one would have noticed either if Punchy hadn't been feeling supreme delicate. Come on, Bud, get up. Get Bud. Wait a minute, Brisby. This fellow's not going to get up. What do you mean? I mean, this fellow's really been stabbed. He's dead. New York Homicide. I'd like to speak to Lieutenant Wigan, please. Okay. Hello, Bill. Pam and I have. What's that? Yes, there's been a murder. Okay, Bill, relax. After all, you don't think we enjoy finding bodies, do you? Right in the doorway of the Kramer Building. I'm calling from a drugstore next door. Okay, we'll wait. Salon. Bill's coming right over.

[Pam North]

Oh, good.

[Rick Julius]

Now, where's Frisbee? I want to ask him.

[Pam North]

He's getting away. He is?

[Rick Julius]

What? The murderer. He's getting in a cab. He's gone. Escape?

[Pam North]

That's right. Look, Jerry, there's Frisbee getting in a cab in front of the store.

[Rick Julius]

Yeah. Come on, Frisbee. Wait a minute, Frisby. He won't wait. I knew he was gonna stay safe.

[Pam North]

I knew it.

[Rick Julius]

That wacky idiot. He's only gonna make things worse. Come on, Pam, we gotta catch him.

[Pam North]

The taxi's turned the corner already. Jerry, we'll never be able to catch him.

[Rick Julius]

Never. Mind that. I think I know where he's gone.

[Pam North]

Are you a mind reader?

[Rick Julius]

No, darling, a script reader. And it's taught me what goes on in what Frisbee uses for a. Well. Pam, here's the elevator. Get in.

[Pam North]

All right, Jerry, push the button for.

[Rick Julius]

The fifth floor, please.

[Pam North]

Yes. And now will you please tell me why we came here?

[Rick Julius]

Because according to the papers on the dead man, this is where he lived.

[Pam North]

But what makes you think that Frisbee will be here?

[Rick Julius]

Because, darling, I published Frisbee's books for years.

[Pam North]

Oh, and you accuse me of talking in circles?

[Rick Julius]

It's really simple, sweetheart. In every one of Frisbee's stories, the first place the hero goes in checking up on a murder is to the victim's apartment, looking for clues.

[Pam North]

And you think Frisbee is living the past now?

[Rick Julius]

Well, it's worth a chance. Let's see. 5C.

[Pam North]

There it is, darling. Right across the hall.

[Rick Julius]

Okay. Come on.

[Pam North]

And do his heroes have any special ways of getting into a partner?

[Rick Julius]

They usually pick the locks. Let's see if it works.

[Pam North]

Well.

[Rick Julius]

Yep, it's open. Come on.

[Pam North]

I don't see it.

[Rick Julius]

Maybe it's in the other room. Frisbee.

[Pam North]

Golly.

[Rick Julius]

Jared, what is it?

[Pam North]

Suppose the person who picked that lock wasn't Frisbee.

[Rick Julius]

Then, sweetheart, we are definitely sticking our necks out. That wouldn't be the first time somebody's been here.

[Pam North]

Look at the papers all over that desk.

[Rick Julius]

Yeah, let's see what they.

[Peter Lorre]

Wait a minute.

[Pam North]

What is it, Doc?

[Rick Julius]

Look alongside the desk.

[Pam North]

Poor Golly's feet.

[Rick Julius]

Yeah, where there are feet, there's usually a body. Let's see.

[Peter Lorre]

Yes, there is.

[Rick Julius]

Uh. Oh, it's Frisbee.

[Pam North]

Oh, Jerry. Jerry.

[Rick Julius]

Is he.

[Pam North]

Is he.

[Rick Julius]

Wait a minute. No, it's all right to him. He's breathing.

[Pam North]

Oh, thank heavens. Frisbee, are you all right?

[Rick Julius]

Hello, Pam. Jerry. Well, what are you doing here? How'd you find me? How'd you know where I was?

[Pam North]

Jerry read it in the book. Huh?

[Rick Julius]

Oh, my head.

[Pam North]

Oh.

[Rick Julius]

How did they do it?

[Pam North]

Do what?

[Rick Julius]

Get it through the door.

[Pam North]

Your head?

[Rick Julius]

No, the General Grant. What the devil are you talking about? The tank. I was hit by a tank. A General Grant. Frisbee, aren't you exaggerating? Oh, well, perhaps slightly.

[Pam North]

Do you think you'll be all right, Frisbee?

[Rick Julius]

Well, I'll never be the same. Oh, well, maybe it'll be an improvement. Did you catch her? Her Who? Shirley Anderson. No, I see you didn't.

[Pam North]

Who's Shirley Anderson?

[Rick Julius]

The dead man's fiance. Pardon? Ex fiance. Well, why should we have caught her? Was she here? Well, she must have been. Did you see her? No, but she'd be the only one who wanted the letter.

[Pam North]

What letter?

[Rick Julius]

When I came here, I found a letter from Shirley to Bud breaking off their engagement. Seems they had a fight.

[Pam North]

Where is the letter?

[Rick Julius]

I had it in my hand and everything went black.

[Pam North]

Oh, so Shirley Anderson was General Grant.

[Rick Julius]

Well, she must have been. Oh, my head. That girl has a. She's a lot stronger than she looks. Or. I'm getting soft headed. Jerry, who are you calling? I want to see if I can get hold of Bill Wagon. Okay, but don't tell him I'm here. Bill won't hurt your Presby. Oh, the police are fools. They lock me up and try to sweat a confession out of me. I've got to solve this crime before they catch me. Oh, cut the dramatic. I know what I'm talking about. Sure, it happens in every book you write, but Bill isn't like that. You're just making matters worse by running away. But Jerry, I didn't kill Biden. Sure you didn't, but. Oh, wait a minute. Hello, Green Drugstore? Well, I wonder if you do me a favor. Will you please go next door to the Kramer building and give a message to Lt. Wigan of the New York Homicide Squad? Yes, I think you'll find him there. Just tell him that Jerry called and say that he and Pam are but Barnes Apartments. It's 5C in the Sylvester James Apartments. That's right. Thank you very much. Jerry, let's face it. Let's face what, Brisbane? Look, I am a genius. And a genius has no business sitting on the floor holding his head. There's a crime to be solved and I'm the man to solve it. Well, when Bill gets here. I can't wait for Bill. Time is of the essence. First we must array our facts. Okay, array away.

[Pam North]

Well, number one, whoever killed Bud must be someone who knew of your plan to put on an act for Jerry with Bud.

[Rick Julius]

Check. But that gets us nowhere too fast on account of there are too many. Bud and I decided on the act at a party last night at which there were guests, more guests and assorted sundries.

[Pam North]

I see.

[Rick Julius]

So we have to find something more specific. Check. Check. Punchy is out. He knows we're moving even less. Check. Check. Well, let's see. There's Harvey Hollis.

[Pam North]

Harvey Hollis?

[Rick Julius]

Yeah. Used to be in love with Shirley. Maybe still is.

[Pam North]

So he could have killed Bud to get Shirley Anderson for himself. Not knowing they'd Had a fight.

[Rick Julius]

That's it. But I doubt it. However, I can overlook any possibilities. But my money is still on Ms. Anderson herself. Definitely had a fight with Bud. She was at the party. So motive, knowledge. All she needed was the opportunity. Check. Uh, check. Then what are we waiting for, Bill? Waste of time. The time is. I know, I know. Of the essence. Diap wouldn't be running away. You'd be with me. You could call Bill from Shirley's. He could meet us there. Well, Jerry, I am not one to be framed for murder and take it lying down. You say nothing about a conk on.

[Pam North]

The noggin, which you did take lying down.

[Rick Julius]

Well, I must have satisfaction. It's up to me to crack this case.

[Pam North]

I think he's right, Jerry. Come on, let's go to Ms. Anderson's with him.

[Rick Julius]

Well, you said that before. Come on, Pam, let you and me go. Jerry can join us. He wants to. Now, wait a minute. But time is of the essence. Okay, okay. Come on, let's go.

[Pam North]

Why, Frisbee. Crisby.

[Rick Julius]

Hello, Shirley. I want you to meet Mr. And Mrs. No.

[Pam North]

Oh, how too, too exciting. I've heard so much about you and everything. How did it go?

[Rick Julius]

What?

[Pam North]

The ad. You and Bud. Frisbee. Oh, did it work? It must be too, too exciting to work out a perfect crime. I'd love to do it. Except that if you did. Really, I mean, how would anyone know? And if they didn't, what fun would it be? Oh, come on in.

[Rick Julius]

Thanks.

[Pam North]

Stu's here. Frisbee, you know I'm Stuart Payne. He was at the party last night.

[Rick Julius]

Yes.

[Pam North]

Oh, Stu, look who's here.

[Rick Julius]

Oh, hello there, Frisbee. Hello.

[Pam North]

This is Mr. And Mrs. North. You know, the Mr. And Mrs. North.

[Rick Julius]

How do you do? How do you do?

[Pam North]

How do you do? Oh, Frisbee, you haven't told me. Did you fool Mr. North? I am simply bursting. You didn't mind, did you, Mr. North? I think it was such a cute idea. Quaint. That's the word for. Did you, Frisbee?

[Rick Julius]

Shirley, somebody killed Bud.

[Pam North]

I know you did.

[Rick Julius]

I mean, really.

[Pam North]

I beg your pardon?

[Rick Julius]

I pretended to kill him and pushed him into a doorway. Somebody must have been hiding in there and really killed him.

[Pam North]

What?

[Rick Julius]

That's impossible.

[Pam North]

Why Is it impossible, Mr. Pin?

[Rick Julius]

Well, I mean, why would anyone want. I don't know, but somebody did.

[Pam North]

Mom always wanted me to be an actress, but I never any good. Even though my profile does look something like Katharine Hepburn. Well, I suppose I'll be suspected, won't I? Because you look like Katherine Hepburn Because I can't act like Katherine Hepburn. Oh, just think what Bernhardt would have done with a moment like this. Bet Davis. I think she's terrific, don't you? Simply terrific.

[Rick Julius]

Aren't we somehow getting away from the point, Miss Anderson?

[Pam North]

Oh, no, not at all, Mr. North. My lover has just been killed. At least he's supposed to be my lover. If I could make it with the hysterics and stuff, you'd all be pitting me and sniffling and saying, there, there, poor little girl.

[Rick Julius]

I see. Shirley, you hated. But didn't you.

[Pam North]

No, Frizzy. But I do think that he was a Scarlet. If you'll pardon my saying so.

[Rick Julius]

She's upset. She doesn't realize what she's saying. I think she does. In fact, I know she does. She loved Bud. Why should she have wanted. But he done her dirt. Ditch her and hell hath no fury. Et cetera, et cetera, et cetera. That's not so. Bud and Shirley are all washed up.

[Pam North]

Stu, let's face it.

[Rick Julius]

Surely you didn't feel bad.

[Pam North]

Of course not, silly.

[Rick Julius]

Then why keep on saying things like they happen to be the truth, Mr. North? Yes, I killed Bud.

[Pam North]

Stu, you didn't.

[Rick Julius]

Excellent. Excellent. It all fits.

[Pam North]

Does it, Frisbee?

[Rick Julius]

Yes. I couldn't have done it better myself.

[Pam North]

What do you mean?

[Rick Julius]

The perfect build up to the confession. Sort of like my handling of death. Fried zapogo stick. Don't you think, Jerry? Yeah.

[Pam North]

Stu's lying, Mr. North. He didn't kill Bud. He couldn't have. Why not? Well, he. Well, I mean, he's just not the type. I mean, I know him. I. Oh, dear, I don't know what I mean.

[Rick Julius]

I tell you I killed Bud.

[Pam North]

Then I suppose you stole the letter too.

[Rick Julius]

What letter?

[Pam North]

About Shirley's fight with Bud.

[Rick Julius]

As long as you know about it.

[Peter Lorre]

Anyway, it doesn't make any difference. Here.

[Rick Julius]

Here it is. Let's see it. There you are. Thank you.

[Pam North]

Is it Prissy?

[Rick Julius]

Uh huh. This is it. Now do you believe me?

[Pam North]

Oh, Stuart.

[Rick Julius]

Ms. Henderson, may I use your telephone, please?

[Pam North]

Oh, yes, of course. Oh, Stu, this isn't like you at all. It positively isn't.

[Rick Julius]

What?

[Pam North]

Going around killing people. Whatever made you do it? Sure, Bud was a stinker, but even so, in fact, he was a terrific thinker. He was. Oh, you know, Stu, I don't blame you.

[Rick Julius]

Stop it. Sure. Hello, Bill. I thought I'd be able to get you at Barnes's apartment. Us? Well, we're at a. Ms. Anderson. Well, I know I Said we'd stay there. But. But Bill. But, Bill, he's angry. Bill, you don't understand. We have the murderer for you. What? That you don't say. Okay, well, we'll wait here anyway. Yes, honestly, we won't budge until you get here. Okay. So long. Well, what do you know? I don't know, Jerry. What do you know? I told Bill we caught the murderer. Yes, well, he said so. Has he, huh? Excellent. A nice twist. A very nice twist.

[Pam North]

There now. Stu. I told you it wasn't you. Who was it, Mr. North?

[Rick Julius]

Harvey Hollis.

[Pam North]

Oh, no.

[Rick Julius]

Oh, yes. That's why you had the fight with Bud, Ms. Anderson. You had jilted him for Mr. Hollis. What's that, Ms. Anderson? Jilted but for Hollis. And Bud threatened to kill Hollis. Hollis has admitted that much.

[Pam North]

No, no, it's not true.

[Rick Julius]

So Hollis must have killed Bud in self protection. Bill told again. He says he has proof Hollis is the murderer.

[Pam North]

Fool.

[Rick Julius]

What a complete and absolute fool.

[Pam North]

Who?

[Rick Julius]

Me to think that. Oh. What?

[Pam North]

There he goes.

[Rick Julius]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Pam North]

He's getting away. Jerry, we got to stop him.

[Rick Julius]

Come on.

[Pam North]

Oh, dear. He knows we're following him. He's feeding.

[Rick Julius]

Yeah. Driver, don't let him get away. He turned the corner. So did we.

[Pam North]

Oh, golly.

[Rick Julius]

Exciting, but sort of pointless, don't you think? Not if we want to catch pain. But do we?

[Pam North]

What do you mean, Frisbee? Of course we do, Zebrasby.

[Rick Julius]

Hollis didn't really kill Bud. Oh, I know that.

[Pam North]

The garb. Driver, a car just cut in in front of us. Jerry. Jerry, are you all right?

[Rick Julius]

Yes. Elling, Are you?

[Pam North]

I don't know.

[Rick Julius]

Oh. Okay, Jerry, you win. What do I win? My surrender. Unconditional. I'm a man of deep sensitivity. Auto crashes, bangs on the belfry. Not for me. Have your Bill arrest me. What's the third degree compared to this?

[Pam North]

Don't worry, Frisbee. He won't arrest you. Because we know who the murderer is now.

[Rick Julius]

So do I. But the police won't believe it. I think they will, Frisby. If we ever stand still long enough for them to get to us.

[Pam North]

Well, Mr. Payne's gotten away, so I guess the thing for us to do is to go back to Ms. Anderson's and wait for Bill there.

[Rick Julius]

Yeah, well, I certainly hope he'll listen to you because I'm kind of allergic to being beaten with a rubber hose. Hello? Ms. Anderson, we've come back.

[Pam North]

Oh, that's too bad.

[Rick Julius]

Thank you.

[Pam North]

I mean, Lieutenant Wigan will be very angry.

[Rick Julius]

Why? We told him we'd meet him here.

[Pam North]

I know, but you didn't. You mean he's been here? Oh, yes. Where did he go? Out looking for you. Well, maybe we better go look for him.

[Rick Julius]

Round and round we go. Oh, no, we don't. We're staying here if Ms. Anderson doesn't object.

[Pam North]

Not at all, not at all. Come in.

[Rick Julius]

Thank you.

[Pam North]

Come in and sit down and tell me all about it. Who did it? It couldn't be Harvey. You know that's absurd. Besides, Harvey had nothing to do with my breaking off with Buzz.

[Rick Julius]

I know that, Ms. Anderson. Bill didn't say anything about Harvey. I just made that up to see what Payne would do.

[Pam North]

What did he do?

[Rick Julius]

Didn't you see? He ran away.

[Pam North]

But where did he go? We don't know. He got away.

[Rick Julius]

Well, it doesn't matter anyway, because he's not the murderer.

[Pam North]

Oh, good. But how do you know, Frisbee?

[Rick Julius]

Well, it's obvious. He only confessed to protect you.

[Pam North]

Why, how romantic. Are you sure?

[Rick Julius]

Of course. That's the way it's always done. Always in his stories.

[Pam North]

But then who really killed Bud? Well, you see.

[Rick Julius]

Sorry, Pat.

[Pam North]

There's only one. There's only one person.

[Rick Julius]

Sorry, Pat.

[Pam North]

Oh, that's all right, Frizzy. What were you going to say?

[Rick Julius]

What was I going to say? I was just going to tell her the name of the murderer. It's Cuthbert Willis.

[Pam North]

Who?

[Rick Julius]

Cuthbert Willis.

[Pam North]

Who's he?

[Rick Julius]

A little man who claims he saw me kill Bud.

[Pam North]

What makes you think it was Mr. Willis, Frisbee?

[Rick Julius]

Well, it's simple. Nothing points to him.

[Pam North]

What do you mean?

[Rick Julius]

The least suspicious character.

[Peter Lorre]

Don't you see?

[Rick Julius]

Oh, Frisbee, I hate to disappoint you again, old man, but I'm afraid it isn't Willis. It must be. No, but that means Shirley.

[Pam North]

Really, Frisbee, really. No gentleman would accuse a girl of murder in her own parlor, even if it were true, which it isn't.

[Rick Julius]

Well, now, wait a minute. Wait a minute. It wasn't my idea. Not mine. But, Jerry, you said. I said it wasn't Willis. But that only leaves Shirley and Stewart. And don't you agree that his confession was just to protect her? Of course he confessed to protect her. Well, he's obviously in love with her.

[Pam North]

Well, that's just the point.

[Rick Julius]

I don't get it. Well, as I see it, Payne was so much in love with Ms. Anderson that he killed the man she was engaged to in order to be able to have her for himself, not knowing.

[Pam North]

That she'd already had a fight with a fiance. Then when he found out about the.

[Rick Julius]

Fight and found there were letters proving there had been a fight, he had.

[Pam North]

To get those letters to keep her from being accused of the murder. And then when that didn't work, he was willing to give himself up rather than see her arrested.

[Rick Julius]

Then the confession was on the level. That's right, Frisbee. Interesting twist. I have to try that sometime. But if it's Stuart Payne, how are we going to catch him? He's already made his getaway.

[Pam North]

Well, perhaps he'll be back.

[Rick Julius]

I'm afraid not. Well, Frisbee, if this were one of your stuff stories, he'd walk in just about now with a gun in his hand. Oh, no. I never use that.

[Pam North]

Why not?

[Rick Julius]

Boy? It'd be too convenient. It'd seem contrived. Would it, Frisby?

[Pam North]

Stu?

[Rick Julius]

Yes, it's me. And as you see, I have the gun, too. That's what I went for. Unbelievable. No, it isn't, Frisbee, and it isn't contrived. I sort of had an idea he'd be back. Yes, you're right. I am back. Surely. I loved you. I'd have done anything for you. I'd have stolen for you. I'd have killed for you. I did kill for you. What did I get out of it? First it was Bud, and now Harvey.

[Pam North]

No, Stu, that's not true. Mr. North just made up that story about Harvey.

[Rick Julius]

I don't believe it. It's so. I just wanted to see what you'd do. You can't fool me. I know her. She never loved me. She never will. Well, all right. I'll fix her. I'll kill her.

[Pam North]

No, sir. Mr. Payne, look out.

[Rick Julius]

Behind you. Sherry, quick. Stop that. God.

[Pam North]

Mr. North, you knocked him out. Call the phone. I'll get it.

[Rick Julius]

Oh, this is too much. This is evidently too much.

[Pam North]

What's the matter, Frisbee?

[Rick Julius]

Oh, it's bad enough that my perfect murder failed and the confession was on the level, and the murderer shows up right on tune. But for you to get the gun away from him with that oldie look out behind you. Oh. Oh.

[Pam North]

Oh, Pam. No.

[Rick Julius]

No.

[Pam North]

No. Mr. North?

[Rick Julius]

Yes?

[Pam North]

That was Lieutenant Wigand on the phone. He wanted to know where you were. I told him you were back here again.

[Rick Julius]

But didn't he want to talk to us?

[Pam North]

No. He said he doesn't like to use that kind of language on the telephone.

[Rick Julius]

Well, darling, Paine is confessed again to the police this time.

[Pam North]

Well, I hope Frisbee believes him this time.

[Rick Julius]

I hope so, too. He should have believed him. The first time as soon as he saw the letter.

[Pam North]

Well, of course he should have. Mr. Payne pretended that he didn't know anything about the murder until we told him. But he stole the letter before we told him.

[Rick Julius]

That's right. That clinched it.

[Pam North]

Yes, darling. Oh, poor Frisbee. Nothing worked out the way he'd have done it.

[Rick Julius]

Well, maybe we can give him his ending at least. What satisfies well, at this point in all of his adventures of Mr. And Mrs. Wallaby. Mr. And Mrs. Wallaby, retirement.

[Peter Lorre]

And thanks for supplying us with tonight's bedtime story in a Mystery playhouse. See, I hear that your entries for the Globe Theatre radio playwriting contest are coming in France. My friend Herbert Marshall, director of the Globe Theatre, asked me if I wouldn't say something about the length of the script. Your script should take about 25 to 27 minutes to play. Including all allowances for sound effects and music bridges. This should mean about 25 to 27 double spaced type written pages. Mr. Marshall wanted me to emphasize that it's better to write them long than short. For any additional information you need about the Globe Theater contest, write to the station or to contest editor, Armed Forces Radio, Los Angeles, usa. Well, we better start down to the green room right away or we'll be late for the preview performance of our next Mystery Playhouse attraction. Follow me, please. Come, come.

[Pam North]

Mr. Joyce. Why do you speak to me this way? After all, Mr. Joyce, I'm not a criminal. I'm not. I'm not. I'm not. No, no, no.

[Peter Lorre]

I'm sorry.

[Rick Julius]

All right, try that.

[Pam North]

Don't. Don't let the pain.

[Rick Julius]

Please, will you pull yourself together? Please?

[Pam North]

Just give me time. Just give me some time and let me think I was.

[Rick Julius]

Mrs. Crosby. I'll come back later.

[Pam North]

No. No, don't leave me.

[Rick Julius]

But I. Well. Well, Mrs. Crosby, will they.

[Pam North]

Will whoever has the original letter sell it?

[Rick Julius]

Why, yes, I think so. Who has it for a Chinese woman who's living in Hammond's house.

[Pam North]

The Chinese woman. Does she want very much for it?

[Rick Julius]

Maybe she wants a very large sum.

[Pam North]

Mr. Joyce, are you going to let them hang me because of a paltry sum of money?

[Rick Julius]

Do you think it's so simple as all that to secure possession of that letter? Why, you have no right to make any such suggestion to me.

[Pam North]

Well, then what will happen to me?

[Rick Julius]

Well, you should have thought of that before. Justice must take its course.

[Pam North]

Oh, please, Mr. Joyce, please. I'm putting myself in your hands. I know that I have no right to ask you to do anything that isn't proper. But you must do everything you can to help me, Mr. Joyce. You're my counsel. Now. Who else will help me? You've got to. You've got to help me, Mr. Joyce.

[Rick Julius]

Now, please.

[Pam North]

I'm getting down on my own.

[Rick Julius]

Mrs. Crosby. Please stop it. Who cares? Husband raised the money.

[Pam North]

Yes, I'm sure he could.

[Rick Julius]

Well, you know that he'd have to be told what it was for.

[Pam North]

Yes, but does he have to see the letter? He's been leveled with Mr. Joyce. He'd make any sacrifice to save me.

[Rick Julius]

Well, I'm. I'm not.

[Pam North]

Well, it's an old friend of yours. Now, I'm not asking you to do anything for me. I'm asking you to save a rather simple, kind man never did you any harm from all the pain.

[Rick Julius]

That's possible, Mrs. Crosby. All right, I'll help you. But on one condition.

[Pam North]

Yes?

[Rick Julius]

Now you tell me the truth about the letter. Now, will you tell me the truth about that night?

[Pam North]

Oh, yes. Yes, I will. I will.

[Peter Lorre]

All right.

[Rick Julius]

Did you or did you not shoot Hammond in self defense?

[Pam North]

Of course it was in self defense. I swear to you, Mr. Joyce, it was in self defense. You've got to believe me. You must help me. Please, Mr. Joyce. I'm placing my life in your hands. I wouldn't lie to you now. I wouldn't.

[Rick Julius]

Very well, Mr. Transluce. I must go now, Mr. Joyce.

[Pam North]

What are you going to do?

[Rick Julius]

Sure, I don't know.

[Peter Lorre]

Yes. Creeps. Next time we are going to go dramatic. Yes, it's one of the classic stories of its kind, written by the fine English author Somerset Maugham. So be in your seats next time. Ready for the curtain on the letter. This is Peter Laurie closing the doors of the Mystery Playhouse.

[Rick Julius]

Good night.

[Peter Lorre]

This is the Armed Forces Radio Service.

[Geico Voice]

How do you feel when you switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance? It's like finishing your laundry and successfully matching all your daughter's baby socks together on the first try.

[Rick Julius]

Let's see. Panda socks, fire truck socks. Socks with those cute little strawberries on them.

[Geico Voice]

You matched each and every one of those tiny socks. I mean, has this ever happened in the history of laundry and a penguin.

[Rick Julius]

Wearing a cowboy hat? Socks.

[Pam North]

Done.

[Geico Voice]

Enjoy the moment, dad. You've earned it. Yep, switching and saving with Geico feels just like that. Get more with Geico.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, this was a little meta as you had characters within a mystery story critiquing it and Frisbee trying to apply his methods as a somewhat successful mystery writer to an actual case but it was definitely fun to listen to. I tagged that letter as a key point proving the killer's guilt. Of course, if he didn't do it, then he got the letter from the killer. Most of the episode after the time he shared the letter is just decent misdirection to make us think that there's still something to investigate. Investigate the details on the writing contest were interesting and give insights to how radio scripts were put together and to an extent, how they are still put together. I entered a scriptwriting contest a few years back and they had very similar guidelines, although different length, for the project that they were basing the contest around. And of course, the reason why they said to write long rather than short is that if something needs cut, you can still preserve the quality of the piece. But when you write too short, you often have to pad the script length out, which often hurts its quality. The Green Room segment was for one of the most adapted stories during the golden age of radio. It started as a short story that was then adapted into a play. And there were a couple of film versions. And consequently there were multiple Lux Radio Theater adaptations. And there was also Theater Guild of the Air and Arthur Hopkins Presents. The version being teased here was from the Mole Mystery Theater version of the story, which had aired back in December. We turn to listener comments and feedback and I've got a comment from. From a listener on YouTube regarding bulldog drumming. 6682 writes, it is extremely distracting to have a guy with a New York accent portraying a character that is supposed to be British, particularly when the first episode of Bulldog Drumming I heard had an actor with a British accent play him. What makes it more noticeable is that Denny does have the appropriate accent. Well, thank you so much. Appreciate the comment. And sorry you found that distracting. Was interesting that you, you talked about Denny's accent being appropriate because I had another listener complaining that it was a really bad British accent that Louis Van Rutten was putting on. Of course, the first actor to play Bulldog Drummond over the air for both the audition that we played as well as for the first run of radio episodes was George Caloris, who was British, I guess for me, when it comes to Ned Weaver. He made a choice to play Bulldog Drummond without a British accent, but it wasn't like some sort of working class accent he played. It, it may be in New York, but it was very high status, very proper, a bit different if you go back and listen to his work on Dick tracy in the 1930s. So I get used to it. And I didn't find it a distraction myself, but I guess that's one of those your mileage may vary situations. But I do appreciate the comment. Alright, well now it is time to thank our Patreon Supporter of the Day and I want to thank James. James has been one of our Patreon supporters Since March of 2020, currently supporting the podcast at the Detective Sergeant level of $7.14 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support James and that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And 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 will be back next Thursday with another episode of Mr. And Mrs. North. In the meantime, send your comments to box13reatetectives.net 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.