Mr. and Mrs. North: Pam Goes it Alone (EP4560)

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio – "Mr. and Mrs. North: Pam Goes it Alone (EP4560)"

Release Date: November 28, 2024

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Introduction

In Episode 4560 of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," host Adam Graham presents an enthralling installment of the beloved detective duo, Mr. and Mrs. North. Titled "Pam Goes it Alone," this episode delves deep into a web of deception, betrayal, and relentless pursuit of justice set against the backdrop of the Golden Age of Radio. Through a masterful blend of suspense and sharp dialogue, listeners are transported into the complex world of Pam North as she endeavors to exonerate an innocent man and unmask the true villain.

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Plot Overview

The episode opens with Mr. North, Jerry, away on a business trip, leaving Pam North alone at home. Pam's peaceful routine is disrupted when Gloria Crane bursts into her apartment, revealing that her husband, Jimmy Selden, is wrongfully condemned for a murder he did not commit. Determined to help, Pam takes it upon herself to investigate and uncover the truth behind Jimmy's accusation.

Key Events:

1. The Plea for Help:

   • Gloria Crane arrives injured, asserting that Jimmy is being framed for a murder by the state executioner.
   • Quote: Gloria Crane [04:22]: "Please let me in."

2. Confronting the First Witness:

   • Pam contacts Pete Owens, the doorman who testified against Jimmy, uncovering his bribery.
   • Quote: Pam North [08:05]: "You did, didn't you?"

3. Unveiling Corruption:

   • Pam systematically dismantles the credibility of the witnesses, revealing their involvement in perjury.
   • She identifies Gloria as the orchestrator behind the false testimonies.

4. The Climactic Confrontation:

   • Gloria attempts to silence Pam through deceit and intimidation, leading to a tense showdown.
   • Pam's quick thinking and resilience expose Gloria's true motives, ensuring justice is served.

5. Resolution:

   • With the evidence against the false witnesses and Gloria's duplicity exposed, Jimmy Selden is exonerated.
   • Pam's unwavering determination restores the Norths' reputation, reaffirming their commitment to justice.

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Character Analysis

• Pam North:

  • Portrayed as resourceful, tenacious, and deeply empathetic, Pam embodies the quintessential detective heroine. Her ability to navigate complex social dynamics and her unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth highlight her as a formidable force in the investigative realm.
  • Quote: Pam North [10:24]: "So you see, Gloria, we've broken down one witness."

• Gloria Crane:

  • Initially appearing as a distressed individual seeking help, Gloria's true nature as the antagonist is meticulously unveiled. Her manipulative tactics and attempts to frame Jimmy underscore her role as a cunning and dangerous adversary.
  • Quote: Gloria Crane [23:31]: "That's right. I killed Corsi too."

• Pete Owens:

  • The doorman whose false testimony serves as a critical turning point in the investigation. His bribery exposes the depth of corruption surrounding Jimmy's case.
  • Quote: Pete Owens [09:34]: "I'm telling you, nothing."

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Key Themes

1. Justice vs. Corruption:

   • The episode masterfully juxtaposes the pursuit of justice with the pervasive corruption that seeks to undermine it. Pam's relentless quest to clear Jimmy's name highlights the challenges faced when confronting institutional dishonesty.

2. Loyalty and Sacrifice:

   • Pam's dedication to her husband and the truth underscores the profound personal sacrifices made in the name of justice.

3. Deception and Revelation:

   • The intricate layers of deception, particularly Gloria's machinations, create a riveting narrative that keeps listeners engaged until the very end.

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Clues and Revelations

Pam's investigative prowess is evident through her strategic questioning and ability to spot inconsistencies in witness testimonies. Each revelation peels back another layer of the conspiracy against Jimmy, ultimately leading to Gloria's exposed duplicity.

• Witness Inconsistencies:

  • Pam identifies that the testimonies of Pete Owens and others lack coherence, hinting at bribery and manipulation.

• Gloria's Manipulations:

  • The revelation that Gloria orchestrated the false testimonies and attempted to eliminate Pam reinforces her role as the primary antagonist.

• Final Showdown:

  • The confrontation between Pam and Gloria not only resolves the central conflict but also showcases Pam's strategic thinking and resilience.

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Notable Quotes

• Pam North:

  • [08:10]: "Thank you. I will. Sit down. You are Pete Owens, aren't you?"
  • [19:17]: "I'm Pamela North. I want to clear Jimmy Stelton of the murder charge against him."

• Gloria Crane:

  • [12:30]: "I couldn’t see who it was, Pam. It was too dark."
  • [23:31]: "And enough leftover to see me through quite a few rainy days after I get rid of you."

• Host Adam Graham:

  • [30:58]: "Pam needed far less help than Denny and really carries the investigation quite nicely."

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Host Commentary Highlights

After the conclusion of the episode, Adam Graham provides insightful commentary, highlighting Pam North's autonomous investigative efforts compared to other detective figures like Bulldog Drummond. He notes Pam's ability to effectively carry the investigation with minimal external assistance, emphasizing her strength as a standalone detective.

Key Points from Adam Graham:

• Pam's Autonomy:

  • Unlike other detectives who may rely heavily on partners, Pam independently navigates the complexities of the case.

• Character Development:

  • The episode showcases Pam's growth, illustrating her capacity to handle high-stakes situations with grace and intelligence.

• Comparative Analysis:

  • Adam draws parallels between this episode and previous ones, noting the unique challenges Pam faces and overcomes.

Quote: "She really did have an audacious plan to try to bring Pam in, but it was probably a case of learning to leave well enough alone." – Adam Graham [30:58]

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Conclusion

"Pam Goes it Alone" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic detective narratives. Through dynamic character portrayals, intricate plotting, and engaging dialogue, the episode captivates listeners, reaffirming Mr. and Mrs. North's legacy as icons of old-time radio detective fiction. Pam North's unwavering determination and sharp intellect not only resolve the central mystery but also leave listeners eagerly anticipating future adventures.

For more mysteries and thrilling detective tales, subscribe to "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio" on your preferred podcast platform or visit greatdetectives.net.

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Note: All timestamps referenced correspond to the provided transcript.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

Coming up this week on the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon.

[Mr. Finley]

Well, boy?

[Boy]

Yes, Mr. Finley.

[Mr. Finley]

Where are you, boy? What about my house?

[Boy]

Well, I'll tell you, Mr. Finley bears your word.

[Mr. Finley]

You said you'd be over with a down payment. What are you made of, boy? Rock, maple or pine?

[Sergeant X]

Well, something has come up, Mr. Finley.

[Mr. Finley]

I got 15 people after this house.

[Adam Graham]

Listen to the Old Time radio snack wagon snackwagon.net or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Pam North]

SA.

[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. But I do want to encourage you to follow the podcast using your favorite podcast software. And I also want to encourage you to check out my wife's business, Ashira clipse. It'[e-mail] that's L I L L A rose.com Ashira. There she sells a wide variety of different headbands, hair clips and hair ties to suit a variety of different tastes and styles. And you can find that [e-mail] Ashira well, now, from September 2, 1944, here is Pam Goes it alone.

[Sergeant X]

Good evening. This is Sergeant X. When an American greets another native son with the time worn phrase what's doing? He's very much surprised if the answer isn't not much or something to the same effect. Yes, the lives of most home folks are pretty uneventful, unless, of course, their names happen to be Mr. And Mrs. North. In that case, there's never a dull moment as they demonstrate tonight in the Mystery Playhouse. Yes, tonight the Mystery Playhouse presents another exciting episode in the very eventful lives of Mr. And Mrs. North. It isn't that Jerry and Pam, as they're known to each other in their intimates, go hunting for trouble. No, it seems to be just the other way around. Of course, once it arrives, they don't run away from it. On the contrary, they usually jump in with both feet, a process that makes for interesting results. Take for instance, right now, with Jerry north away on a business trip, Pam is home, keeping the light burning in the window and the telephone wires humming.

[Pam North]

Hello? Yes, I'm Mrs. North. Oh, put him on. Is Jerry darling? Of course I'm not. All right. How can I be with my husband way off in the wild? Me? Oh, I'm taking up knitting. Jerry. Uh huh. Knit one, purl one. Although I keep dropping one all the time. I just need you. Oh. What did you say, darling? Oh, nothing, just. Oh, that sound. I just Dropped one? Uh huh. Oh, I guess I'd better hang up now, darling. Why? Well, I've got to pick up that stitch I dropped. Of course. I. I love you. Goodbye, darling. Oh, I wonder if I. Oh, dear. There are times when a woman needs a husband.

[Gloria Crane]

Please let me in.

[Pam North]

Quickly. Oh, you've been shot.

[Gloria Crane]

Quickly, please.

[Pam North]

All right. Here, let me help you. Lie down on this couch. There. Well, I'd better phone for a doctor. You want?

[Gloria Crane]

No, no, not a doctor. He'd have to notify the police, and.

[Pam North]

I. Jimmy, there's no time. But you're hurt.

[Gloria Crane]

It's just a flesh wound.

[Pam North]

But you're in pain. I can't let you do.

[Gloria Crane]

You must. You see, what happens to me right now isn't very important. It's Jimmy who's in danger.

[Pam North]

You mean from the man who shot at you?

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, no. From the state executioner.

[Jerry North]

State executor, yes.

[Gloria Crane]

They're going to kill Jimmy for a murder he didn't do. I'm the only one who believes in him. And you and your husband, Mrs. North, are the only ones who could say.

[Pam North]

Well, are you sure? She's fainted, Jerry's out in the wild, and I mustn't call Bill Wigand. There are times, Pamela north, when I wonder about you. How on earth, dear? You're feeling better now, aren't you?

[Gloria Crane]

I guess I've fainted and lost a lot of blood.

[Pam North]

It's all stopped now. How does your shoulder feel?

[Gloria Crane]

Not very good, I'm afraid. That doesn't matter, though, Jimmy.

[Pam North]

I think you'd better tell me about it from the beginning.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, I'm sorry. My name is Gloria Crane. Jimmy Selden and I were to be married until the police found Jimmy's employer dead. He'd been shot. And the police said Jimmy did it. But he didn't. He didn't?

[Pam North]

Why do they think he did?

[Gloria Crane]

Well, according to the evidence, Jimmy was the last person to be with Corsi. That's the man who was killed. And so?

[Pam North]

Well, there must have been witnesses. They lied.

[Jerry North]

I don't know why.

[Gloria Crane]

But, Mrs. North, they lied.

[Pam North]

Who were they?

[Gloria Crane]

Well, there were three of them. The doorman at Corsi's apartment, Corsi, his girlfriend who had rooms next to his. And Corsi's partner, Ed Hall.

[Pam North]

Well, then one, or perhaps all three must be lying. If Jimmy's in prison.

[Gloria Crane]

I swear to you, Mrs. North, he is.

[Pam North]

Then the only thing to do is to force one of the witnesses to admit perjury. Ms. Crane, we've got to Go to each one of them and. Oh, but you can't. Your shoulder.

[Gloria Crane]

Well, that's why the murderer tried to kill me. He wanted to make sure I wouldn't try to find out the truth. He succeeded.

[Pam North]

Unless Jerry, of course, would have conniption kits. I do have my knitting to do. All right, Ms. Crane. I'll start for the doorman.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, Mrs. North, that's wonderful of you, but I can't take advantage of you this way. I really just came for advice.

[Pam North]

Well, if you knew the north better, you'd know that their advice is you should accompanied by in person, cooperation. At least when I have my way. And right now it looks as if I'm going to have it. Oh, I wonder if you. Oh. Hello, bartender.

[Boy]

What?

[Pam North]

I said hello.

[Mr. Finley]

You got the wrong place, sister.

[Pam North]

Um, look, I want to speak to Pete Owens. They told me he'd be here.

[Mr. Finley]

Yes, he's a one man. Liquor shortage, but okay. That table over there in the corner.

[Pam North]

Over there. Yeah, Him.

[Boy]

Yeah.

[Pam North]

Oh, all right. Thank you, bartender. Maybe I should have stood at home. Hello.

[Mr. Finley]

Hmm?

[Pam North]

I said hello.

[Mr. Finley]

Goodbye.

[Pam North]

I've just come.

[Mr. Finley]

Goodbye.

[Pam North]

Anyway, I'd like to speak to you for a few minutes.

[Mr. Finley]

I'm busy, you see.

[Pam North]

Thank you. I will. Sit down. You are Pete Owens, aren't you?

[Mr. Finley]

Don't mention it. Don't tell her so.

[Pam North]

Goodbye, Pete. You're the doorman at Kelmsley Arms who testified at Jimmy Selden's trial, aren't you?

[Mr. Finley]

Oh, go away.

[Pam North]

You did, didn't you?

[Mr. Finley]

She's not only a pretty dame, but nosy. How would you like a sock in the nose?

[Pam North]

I wouldn't. And you're not going to sock me.

[Mr. Finley]

Why?

[Pam North]

Because I'll sock you first with this bottle.

[Mr. Finley]

Hey, hey, give me that back. It's got liquid contents. I need them. Contents.

[Pam North]

Expensive brand, isn't it, Pete? Especially for a doorman.

[Mr. Finley]

A man on what?

[Pam North]

Where did you get the money?

[Mr. Finley]

Nationally. Your business.

[Pam North]

That's what you think. Mr. Owens, I represent the income tax Department. We like to have all income reported to us.

[Mr. Finley]

Hey, now, wait a minute.

[Pam North]

Would you like to see my credentials?

[Mr. Finley]

Don't cry off the handle.

[Pam North]

Would you prefer to continue this discussion at our headquarters?

[Mr. Finley]

You got me wrong. Sure. I received a. Nothing wrong in that, is it?

[Pam North]

That depends. How large a gift?

[Mr. Finley]

500 in cash.

[Pam North]

Who sent it to you?

[Mr. Finley]

There was no signature. Must have been Santa Claus.

[Pam North]

Yes. And what were you supposed to do for that money?

[Mr. Finley]

Nothing.

[Pam North]

Try again.

[Mr. Finley]

I'm telling you, nothing. The guy who sent it, he says. Well, he didn't Want me to get in trouble on my job?

[Pam North]

Go on and make it good.

[Mr. Finley]

Well, they sort of suggested that when I got up on a witness stand. Maybe I didn't have to say nothing about ducking away for a drink after I let the Sheldon guy upstairs.

[Pam North]

So. So you sold out for $500. That's enough, Mr. Owens. Goodbye.

[Mr. Finley]

Hey, hey. Like I always say, dames are no good, especially the pretty ones.

[Pam North]

So you see, Gloria, we've broken down one witness.

[Gloria Crane]

Well, that's wonderful, except. Well, it's just negative, isn't it?

[Pam North]

I know all it proves is that somebody might have followed Jimmy, but, well, we've got two more witnesses to go.

[Gloria Crane]

I hope that you know we don't have very much time left, Mrs. Noah.

[Pam North]

Oh, please, call me Pam. Almost everybody does.

[Gloria Crane]

Well, Pam, you see, Jimmy's execution is next week. I feel so helpless lying here.

[Pam North]

I know. Your shoulder. Is it worse?

[Gloria Crane]

Not really, but it does make me unable to hear, hear, hear.

[Pam North]

You stop worrying. Tomorrow morning I go back to work. In the meantime, I think sleep is what both of us need. I'll sleep on the couch in the living room.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, no, Pam. I hate taking your bed like this, barging into your life.

[Pam North]

Oh, now, don't you be silly, Gloria. You prevented me from brooding about Jerry. And believe me, a publisher husband out in the wilds with a lady author can be brooded about. Jerry. Darling, have I ever told you how handsome you were? Lots of people have. But I bet not one of them ever married you like I did.

[Gloria Crane]

Well, Jerry.

[Pam North]

Oh, Jerry isn't here. Gloria.

[Gloria Crane]

Gloria.

[Pam North]

Somebody, something. I've got to get to her, Gloria. The room's so dark, I. Oh, no, no, don't. Pam.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, Pam, are you all right?

[Pam North]

Well, I'm not sure. There are a lot of little men with hammers working inside my head. I wish they'd go away.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, I couldn't help you. I couldn't get out of bed quickly enough with this shoulder.

[Pam North]

Somebody socked me. Oh, I wish Jerry were here. He's the one that always gets socked. He's used to it by now. I'm not.

[Gloria Crane]

I couldn't see who it was, Pam. It was too dark. Could you?

[Pam North]

All I noticed was a dim figure with his arm upraised. That brute.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, did he hurt you very badly?

[Pam North]

No, but he ruined my best base glory. We should call the police in.

[Gloria Crane]

But they believe Jimmy did it. They won't help.

[Pam North]

Bill might. Although you will keep the doors locked and yell for help on the slightest provocation.

[Gloria Crane]

I promise.

[Pam North]

Then me for what was her name? Corsi's girlfriend.

[Gloria Crane]

Alice Arden.

[Pam North]

Unlikely. However, keep your chin up, Gloria. And if my husband calls while I'm.

[Gloria Crane]

Away, I'll reassure him about you.

[Pam North]

Oh, good heavens, no. Tell Jerry I need him desperately. Otherwise, that she author is likely to start on a second volume.

[Jerry North]

Yeah.

[Pam North]

You're Miss Arden, aren't you?

[Jerry North]

Right the very first time. So go pedal it somewhere else, Sister. Goodbye.

[Pam North]

I'm not pedaling anything.

[Jerry North]

Oh, you're working your way through success school.

[Pam North]

I graduated. You mind if I come in?

[Jerry North]

Certainly I mind. I'm busy.

[Pam North]

Or hiding something.

[Jerry North]

What do you mean?

[Pam North]

I could explain better inside.

[Jerry North]

Well, if you insist. Which you do. Come in. Place is a mess.

[Pam North]

So I noticed. Moving?

[Jerry North]

Yeah. You're not a detective, by any chance?

[Pam North]

Oh, let's not talk about me. Let's talk about you. Why are you moving?

[Jerry North]

I don't like the class of people that ring my doorbell in this house.

[Pam North]

Oh, well, there's another kind of a house you might move to that doesn't have a doorbell. A jail. Is that so? Where you'll always be in my request.

[Jerry North]

Look, sister, if you're the new type of policewoman, Lord help the police department.

[Pam North]

Would you like to see my badge?

[Jerry North]

I've seen them before.

[Pam North]

No doubt.

[Jerry North]

Just what were you insinuating by that?

[Pam North]

Of course, he ran into a lot of police during his business career, didn't he?

[Jerry North]

Oh, yeah. Rat.

[Pam North]

You didn't like him.

[Jerry North]

He was all right alive. But I don't like the kind of guy that don't take care of his loved ones when he pops off.

[Pam North]

You can't really blame him. He wasn't expecting to be murdered in his racket.

[Jerry North]

He had a right to expect it. But no, he kicks off without leaving me a red cent.

[Pam North]

Oh, that's why you're moving. Sure.

[Jerry North]

I can't afford to pay the rent in a Tony dump like this. Funny, I couldn't even afford to move. It hadn't been for.

[Pam North]

How much did he send you?

[Gloria Crane]

A grand.

[Jerry North]

Did who send me?

[Pam North]

Don't you know?

[Jerry North]

There was no sign. Listen, sister, I'm talking too much at Jimmy Selden's trial.

[Pam North]

Maybe you didn't talk enough.

[Jerry North]

I told the truth.

[Pam North]

You saw Jimmy go into Corsi's apartment? Sure.

[Jerry North]

I had a suspicion Corsi was expecting a visitor, so I was watching. But it turned out it was only Jimmy.

[Pam North]

So you went to the movie?

[Jerry North]

No, I stayed right here. I kept on watching.

[Gloria Crane]

Why?

[Jerry North]

No reason.

[Pam North]

Or don't you mean because that's what the letter with $1,000 instructed you to say, look, it's about time you were leaving. I don't think so.

[Jerry North]

You got nothing on me.

[Pam North]

Did you tell the police about the letter with the money?

[Jerry North]

They didn't ask me.

[Pam North]

They might not like it if I told them.

[Jerry North]

Honest, I didn't mean any harm. I needed that thousand dollars.

[Pam North]

So you helped railroad an innocent boy to the chair.

[Jerry North]

I just didn't mention that I left after Jimmy go into Corsi's apartment, that's all.

[Pam North]

You didn't see anyone else go in after Jimmy did?

[Jerry North]

I'm telling you I didn't.

[Gloria Crane]

It wasn't my fault.

[Jerry North]

He got the chair sentenced the doorman and Ed Hall. They would have seen somebody else go in, so I just.

[Pam North]

Joe, you lied and took your thousand dollars. All right, Miss Arden, don't leave town.

[Gloria Crane]

I won't.

[Jerry North]

Look, am I going to get into trouble on account of this?

[Pam North]

Maybe not. But I'd be rather afraid if I were you. Of who? Of the man who sent you that money. He paid for your silence. But if he thought you might talk, he could use other means besides money.

[Jerry North]

You mean kill me?

[Pam North]

He killed Corsi.

[Jerry North]

We can't do that to me. It's against the law.

[Pam North]

Are you quite sure that he realizes that?

[Boy]

Lieutenant Wygan, homicide.

[Pam North]

Oh, this is Pam, Bill. Oh, hello, Pam. What can I do for you about the Corsi murdered. Aha. You're too late.

[Boy]

Somebody already found the corpse in that one.

[Pam North]

Oh, Bill. What business was Corsi in?

[Boy]

He fronted as a real estate man, actually. He ran a string of slot machines, vending parlors and assorted rackets. Why?

[Pam North]

Did he leave any money when he died?

[Boy]

No. His partner claimed Corsi had a hundred grand on him when he was killed. But we never found the money. Selling hit it well, but isn't going to do him any good.

[Pam North]

Selden didn't kill Corsi. Oh.

[Boy]

Proof or intuition?

[Pam North]

Intuition.

[Boy]

I'm sorry, Pam, but I don't think the governor will commute on those grounds.

[Pam North]

Hell, Wigan, you should know by now that when I have an intuition, things happen.

[Boy]

Welcome, madam. You're like a breath of spring in these parts.

[Pam North]

You are Mr. Hall?

[Boy]

Yes, madam. Editor in chief of the Horseman's Handy Helper. The only racing sheet in town. With a money back clause? Precisely. If our selections do not win, try and get your money back. Would you like something for the Fifth Empire?

[Pam North]

Not exactly.

[Boy]

Between you and me, I don't know any more than you do. Who's going to win. Horses are so darn secretive. Never say a word.

[Pam North]

You're quite a picturesque character, Mr. Hall.

[Boy]

True. @ this moment, I am beginning to wonder exactly where you fit into the picture.

[Pam North]

I'm a reporter. Hmm.

[Boy]

Which enlightened newspaper employs you, my dear?

[Pam North]

The. The Globe. The Globe?

[Boy]

Oh, I see. Oh, excuse me for a moment. Something in my other office. Be right back.

[Pam North]

Of course, Mr. Hall. Racing sheet. Corsi owned Bedding Parlors. Pamela, you may have something there. As a matter of fact, Pamela, you'd better have something there. This is your last chance. I hate oily men. I wonder whether Brendan Vale, that authoress, is oily. I hope she is. I hope Jerry doesn't like oily women. As a matter of fact. Oh, Mr. Hall.

[Boy]

Here I am, back again with you, my dear. My sweet little reporter from the Enquirer.

[Pam North]

The glow.

[Boy]

Oh, yes, yes, yes, of course. The globe.

[Pam North]

Mr. Hall. That's a gun you're pointing at me.

[Boy]

How clever of you to recognize it. I just phoned the Globe, madam. They sent no one down to interview me.

[Pam North]

They must have forgotten.

[Boy]

Would you mind showing me your press card?

[Pam North]

Oh, no. I'm afraid I forgot it.

[Boy]

That forgetfulness is likely to cost you your life, my dear. What's the angle? And talk fast.

[Pam North]

I was lying to you.

[Boy]

But correct so far.

[Mr. Hall]

Go on.

[Pam North]

I'm Pamela North. I want to clear Jimmy Stelton of the murder charge against him.

[Boy]

Assuming you mean that he's innocent.

[Pam North]

He is innocent, and you know it.

[Boy]

What makes you think so?

[Pam North]

Because somebody entered Corsi's apartment after Jimmy left and that somebody killed Corsi. You must have seen the killer.

[Boy]

A pretty theory.

[Pam North]

How much did he pay you?

[Boy]

Why do you Want to know, Mr. Hall?

[Pam North]

The murderer has bribed the three witnesses who could have cleared Jimmy and convicted him instead. I know that. I also know that you're not a man I can scare. You're a realist.

[Boy]

Thank you, my dear.

[Pam North]

Suppose I match his offer?

[Boy]

You're assuming I saw the murderer enter.

[Pam North]

Didn't you?

[Boy]

Possibly. I can't be sure.

[Pam North]

I'll match his offer.

[Boy]

Double it.

[Pam North]

All right.

[Boy]

How much he paid 10,000.

[Pam North]

I'll have 20,000 at my apartment tonight.

[Boy]

In that case, Mrs. North, I'll be here.

[Pam North]

Here?

[Boy]

But I. I don't like traps. My word among the criminal elements in this city is unquestioned. You may rely on it. $20,000 tonight, Mrs. North. And tomorrow Jimmy Selden goes free. Monkey business, Mrs. North. And Jimmy Selden dies in the chair.

[Gloria Crane]

Gee, Pam, I can't let you spend all that money.

[Pam North]

Oh, cheer up, Gloria. It Isn't mine. It's Jerry. But Jimmy'll pay us back. He'd better.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, I can't express you.

[Pam North]

Don't try, Gloria. That money is about all the North Publishing Company is worth. But after all, Jerry can always get a job. Wish me.

[Gloria Crane]

Wish both of us luck.

[Pam North]

It's our only chance. Our last chance.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh.

[Pam North]

Quiet on the Horseman's handy helper front. Sounds like it's the office gully. Stark inside open. Pamela doesn't like to go in. But Pamela had better go in. Well, nothing and nobody. Where's the light switch? There. Oh. Why, Mr. Hall. You are here after all. Mr. Hall. He must be asleep, sitting in his chair behind the desk. Mr. Hall, please wake up. Please. Oh.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh.

[Pam North]

Oh, Pam. Yes, Gloria? I'm awfully sorry. As I told you over the phone, hall was dead when I got there.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, it's not your fault. Not anybody's fault. Just bad luck, that's all.

[Pam North]

Oh, this thing isn't over yet, Gloria. Try not to worry. Somehow, somewhere we'll find the evidence we need.

[Gloria Crane]

Yes, but where, Pam?

[Pam North]

I don't know.

[Gloria Crane]

Oh, your husband phoned.

[Pam North]

Oh, did he?

[Gloria Crane]

Yeah, right after you did. I told him you were all right. I told him about Hull. He's going to call again.

[Pam North]

Oh, thank you, dear. How could the murderer have known that hall was practicing? What did you say?

[Gloria Crane]

Hmm?

[Pam North]

Oh, nothing. I was just thinking aloud.

[Gloria Crane]

Well, I guess I'll go to bed. That must be your husband now. Good night.

[Pam North]

Good night, dear. Jerry. Uh huh? Oh, I'm all right, darling. I'm just lonely for you. And unhappy. Yes. Hall's dead. That's right. His own paper knife sitting behind his own desk before he could even. Jerry, what did you say about the paper knife? I know, but how did you know it was a paper knife that was used to kill him?

[Gloria Crane]

Just a minute. That's enough, Mrs. North.

[Pam North]

Gloria, that's gone.

[Gloria Crane]

Say goodbye to your husband nicely and.

[Pam North]

That'S all, or I'll shoot. All right. It's very late, Jerry. I'd better hang up. Oh, one thing more, Jerry. Bill Wigand is ready to go to press with his new book. Uh huh.

[Jerry North]

Right away.

[Pam North]

Hang up. Oh, that's all, darling. Goodbye. I still can't believe it, although I should have known. You were the only person who knew hall was going to change his testimony. Therefore, you had to be the person who killed him. And if you feared his testimony so much.

[Gloria Crane]

That's right. I killed Corsi too.

[Pam North]

For the hundred thousand dollars that Bill told me about. The money that disappeared you took it. That's where you got the money to bribe the witnesses with.

[Gloria Crane]

And enough leftover to see me through quite a few rainy days after I get rid of you.

[Pam North]

You can't kill me here. It's my own apartment. And those attacks on you. You must have staged them yourself to make sure that I wouldn't suspect.

[Gloria Crane]

Now she gets wise.

[Pam North]

And when I reported to you that hall had seen the murderer, you killed him. That's why you had to send me. To make sure.

[Gloria Crane]

I did make sure about hall, just as I'm going to make sure about you.

[Pam North]

But the police know about you now. They don't suspect you. But if I'm found dead in this apartment.

[Gloria Crane]

You won't be. I'm getting dressed, Mrs. North. All dressed up and fit to kill. All right, Mrs. Nord, we're ready.

[Pam North]

I'm not sure I am.

[Gloria Crane]

Start moving. I get nervous when my fingers on a clicker.

[Pam North]

Since you're so persistent, go now straight down the hallway. Will. You shot me too soon, Gloria. You shot me. Or am I wrong?

[Mr. Finley]

I am.

[Pam North]

Oh, Bill. Bill Wigan. Oh, I'm so glad to see you. I'm going to.

[Boy]

Don't cry.

[Pam North]

I won't. I think I'd rather faint. Hello, Jerry, darling. Yes, it's all over. You see, when you mentioned to me that hall was stabbed with a paper knife, that was the important clue. Because when I phoned Gloria, I just told her that hall had been murdered. Without the details. Yet when she told you about it, she knew about the stabbing and. Ah, darling. And it was very bright of you to catch on and send Bill to help me. I know, darling. We're both very bright.

[Sergeant X]

And that was tonight's Mystery Playhouse presentation. Pamela Goes It Alone. Another adventure with Mr. And Mrs. North. Like I told you at the start of tonight's performance, the Norths do jump in with both feet, don't they? But somehow or other they always seem to come out all in one piece and ready for more. Now leaving the Norths for the time being, anyway. We invite you to visit the Green Room for a pre hearing of our next Mystery Playhouse performance. Follow me, please. Come.

[Mr. Hall]

Like I said, and be a good boy. You got nothing to worry about as long as you stick with me. Now, I'll count out your 15,000.

[Sammy]

I want more than that. I want 25.

[Pam North]

What?

[Mr. Hall]

And leave me only five? That's a fine way to treat a partner.

[Sammy]

I don't care about you. I want what's coming to me.

[Mr. Hall]

You'll get it. And no more. We split this 50 50.

[Sammy]

Now why should we? Why should you get half?

[Boy]

I did the job.

[Sammy]

I went in and got the stuff. I took all the risk. All you did was sit here and wait for me.

[Mr. Finley]

Is that so?

[Mr. Hall]

All I did is sit here and wait for you. Why, you runny nosed little brat. Who do you think those are thinking for you? How far do you think you'd give that stupid brain of yours?

[Sammy]

I don't need you.

[Mr. Hall]

No. How much of this 30,000 do you think you'd have now if it wasn't for me?

[Boy]

I'll tell you.

[Mr. Hall]

Not one cent. Who found out about the jewels in the first place? Me.

[Gloria Crane]

Who?

[Mr. Hall]

Case the joint will find out about the chauffeur being the next con who swiped his screwdriver to plant on the scene who figured out every angle to make this one of the neatest jobs ever pulled in this burg. You'd be so stinking hot with the police right now if it hadn't meant for me. You'd never even be able to catch the rocks in and now don't give me any more of this stuff.

[Sammy]

Now listen, Ainsley. I'm sick of you playing a big shot. Maybe you did do all the thinking up to now, but maybe now it's my turn. I'm taking 25 of that pile and you ain't got nothing to say about it.

[Mr. Hall]

Why, you. Well, you little rat. You'd pull a rod on me?

[Sammy]

Yeah, and I know how to use it, big shot. Now get counting. 25 for me, five for you.

[Mr. Hall]

How do you like that? Is that a way to treat a pal, Sammy?

[Sammy]

I'm no pal of yours, big shot. I can take care of myself.

[Mr. Hall]

Okay, okay. There's 25 for you and five for me only. If you're so smart, why not take the whole thing?

[Sammy]

I might do that.

[Mr. Hall]

Okay then.

[Pam North]

Here, take it.

[Boy]

Hey, what the.

[Pam North]

Look.

[Mr. Hall]

Now drop that rod. That's better. I'll just keep this little rod for souvenir.

[Sammy]

You jerk.

[Mr. Hall]

Yes, that'll teach you not to play rough with Albert Easley. You see, sonny, you're not as small as you thought. I'm always just a little bit smarter. Now get up and be gone.

[Sammy]

What about my money?

[Mr. Hall]

Oh, you're so impulsive. I don't think you better have so much money around loose, Sammy. Maybe I better keep it for you till you grow up a little. Come around sometime when you've learned not to be a double crossing baby.

[Sammy]

I'll kill you, Weasley. So help me, I'll kill you.

[Mr. Hall]

Oh, sure, I'm Scared to death.

[Sammy]

You will be before I'm through. I promise you.

[Boy]

Okay.

[Mr. Hall]

Okay, we get going before I take you over my knees.

[Sammy]

You better order your flowers now, big shot, because I'll get you if it's the last thing I do.

[Mr. Hall]

Okay, go ahead and try it, Sammy. But just remember, two can play that game. I could plug you now if I felt like it. But I'll outsmart you at that game, too.

[Sammy]

We'll see about that. Just remember, Easley, I'm going to kill you.

[Mr. Hall]

Not if I kill you first, Sammy.

[Sammy]

Okay, fair enough. So long, Easley. Pleasant dreams.

[Sergeant X]

Well, that sounds like a cute couple of kids, doesn't it? You know, it looks very much like somebody's going to get hurt. And to find out for sure, you're going to have to be back in your seats next time when what looks like an open and shut case of jewel robbery turns into triple homicide. And the threat not if I kill you first takes on deadly meaning. It's another strange tale from the lips of the man who knows them all, the Whistler. See you then. This is Sergeant X closing the doors of the Mystery Playhouse. Good night. Sleep tight. This is the Armed Forces Radio Service.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. An interesting episode, particularly when a few months back we heard an episode of Bulldog Drumming where Denny had to solve a case on his own. Or I should say, with the help of a substitute Denny, and some timely interference by telegram of Captain Drummond. While both episodes managed to feature an off air assist from the absent partner, Pam needed far less help than Denny and really carries the investigation quite nicely. It was kind of odd to hear Frank Lovejoy appear as Bill Wygan after we've mostly been hearing the stereotypical Irish police foil for several weeks and nothing at all about Wygan. Not certain what was going on with that in terms of the killer's actual plot. She really did have an audacious plan to try to bring Pam in, but it was probably a case of learning to leave well enough alone. She almost certainly would have gotten away with things if she hadn't gotten Pam involved. Then you have her giving away guilty knowledge to Jerry. So, yeah, really ill advised actions, I should say. All right, well, now it is time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to go ahead and thank Marla. Marla has been one of our patreon supporters since January 2018, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Marla. And that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We will be back next Thursday with another episode of Mr. And Mrs. North, but join us back here tomorrow for yours truly, Johnny Dollar Wear.

[Johnny]

That's why that dirty Clarkson Kemper bunch of building up on the cliff to get at that water.

[Boy]

I understand they'll be your competitors.

[Gloria Crane]

Ha.

[Johnny]

All their fancy modern equipment and methods can't produce the brew the way I can. The long, slow, easy way with all the good old fashioned apparatus. The old country methods. Yes, I see why, Johnny. We make our own barley malt and we grind it by hand and we come up with a wart that's second to none in the world. The old type sparger too. And the hopjacks. And the finest strain of yeast there is.

[Boy]

Yes, I'm sure.

[Johnny]

Three full months. We age before we rack a drop. Sure, we take more time and more trouble, but we come up with a better brew. Better than any modern plant can ever make.

[Boy]

Well, then what's your problem?

[Johnny]

They're getting ready to blast up on that cliff, blast a whole big chunk of it away. And when they do, that whole thing will come crashing down here. Thousands of tons of rock.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box [e-mail]. follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and check us out on Instagram, Instagram. Com. Great Detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.