Mr. and Mrs. North: The Mystery of the Triggerman (EP4584)

Summary

Summary of "Mr. and Mrs. North: The Mystery of the Triggerman (EP4584)"

Released on December 26, 2024, "The Mystery of the Triggerman" is an engaging episode of "Mr. and Mrs. North," featured on Adam Graham's podcast, "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio." This episode delves into a suspenseful narrative involving mistaken identities, hidden motives, and a race against time to prevent a murder.

---

Introduction

The episode opens with Mr. and Mrs. North enjoying a warm summer evening in New York City. Their peaceful night takes a tense turn when they realize their car is missing and spot a suspicious man across the street.

---

Key Characters

• Jerry North: Husband of Mrs. North, calm and collected detective.
• Pamela (Pam) North: Wife of Jerry, observant and intuitive.
• Big Mike: A former associate of the Norths, desperate and on parole.
• Mrs. Lamson: Wife of Lucky Lamson, implicated in the unfolding mystery.
• Butler: The enigmatic servant with hidden agendas.
• Lucky Lamson: Big Mike's former boss, whose murder sets the plot in motion.
• Sergeant Mullins: A homicide sergeant involved in the investigation.

---

Plot Overview

The Disappearance of the Car

At [05:26], Pam North realizes their car is missing:
“Keep looking, Jerry. It must be around here somewhere.” [05:26]

Their search leads them to spot a threatening individual, later identified as Big Mike, watching them from across the street.

Big Mike's Plea

Big Mike approaches the Norths, revealing he was previously saved from the electric chair by Jerry North. He confesses he's now under threat from his former boss, Lucky Lamson, who demands he commit a murder within 48 hours or face deadly consequences:
“Lucky Lamson threatens to kill you. What am I going to do, Mr. North?” [07:07]

Desperate, Mike seeks the Norths' help to carry out the task or find another way out of his predicament.

Investigating the Florist Shop

Guided by Mike, the Norths visit Lucky Lamson's florist shop on Grove Street, suspecting it serves as a facade for illicit activities. Mike identifies the location:
“He's got a florist shop up on Grove Street.” [08:05]

Inside, tensions rise as they discover Mrs. Lamson tied up in the broom closet, providing fragmented memories of the night's events.

Unraveling the Mystery

As the Norths delve deeper, discrepancies in Big Mike's story emerge. Mrs. Lamson reveals that during a blackout, she was assaulted, but memories are hazy, casting doubt on the true sequence of events.

Sergeant Mullins arrives to investigate, leading to conflicting accounts and heightened suspicion among the characters.

The Butler's Revelation

A pivotal moment occurs when the Butler, initially perceived as a secondary character, exposes himself as Mr. Taylor, the intended victim. This revelation shifts the focus, uncovering layers of deceit: “I am Mr. Taylor.” [24:12]

This twist highlights the Butler's strategic manipulation, aiming to steal money from Lucky Lamson's safe.

Climactic Confrontation

The episode builds to a dramatic confrontation where Big Mike accuses both Mrs. Lamson and the Butler of conspiring to murder Lucky Lamson for his money: “You and Mrs. Lamson were in on the murder together. You knocked off her husband, and you tried to steal his dough.” [27:27]

In a final showdown, inconsistencies in testimonies lead to the Butler's downfall, vindicating the Norths' suspicions and unraveling the conspiracy.

---

Notable Quotes

• Big Mike to Jerry North:
  “Lucky Lamson threatens to kill you. What am I going to do, Mr. North?” [07:07]

• Mrs. Lamson upon discovery:
  “I came over to see Mr. Taylor, and the butler let you in.” [15:07]

• Butler’s confession:
  “Because I’m Mr. Taylor.” [24:12]

• Big Mike’s accusation:
  “You and Mrs. Lamson were in on the murder together.” [27:27]

---

Clues and Investigation Techniques

Throughout the episode, Mr. and Mrs. North employ classic detective techniques:

1. Observation: Noticing the suspicious behavior of Big Mike leads to uncovering his desperation and connection to Lucky Lamson.
2. Interrogation: Questioning Mrs. Lamson reveals inconsistencies in her account, raising red flags.
3. Deduction: Piecing together the timeline and actions of the Butler uncovers his true identity and motives.
4. Confrontation: Directly confronting the suspects forces revelations and exposes the truth behind the murder plot.

---

Conclusion

"The Mystery of the Triggerman" masterfully intertwines character dynamics with a gripping plot, showcasing Mr. and Mrs. North's adeptness at unraveling complex mysteries. The episode culminates in the exposure of the Butler and Mrs. Lamson's conspiracy, restoring peace and justice with the authorities' intervention.

---

Host’s Insights

After the narrative concludes, host Adam Graham provides his reflections:

• Character Performance: Adam praises Ralph Bell's portrayal of the Butler, noting the effectiveness of his deceptive performance.

• Character Development: He comments on Pam North's characterization, expressing that her heightened nervousness deviates from her typically composed demeanor in earlier episodes.

• Historical Accuracy: Adam questions the flower pricing mentioned in the episode, highlighting potential historical discrepancies and pondering the context of 1945.

• Listener Engagement: He addresses listener comments, clarifying casting choices and recording locations, and acknowledges the support from Patreon subscribers.

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Final Thoughts

"The Mystery of the Triggerman" stands out as a compelling installment in the "Mr. and Mrs. North" series, blending suspense with classic detective storytelling. Adam Graham's insightful commentary further enriches the listening experience, making it accessible and engaging for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Transcript

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[Big Mike]

Foreign.

[Ad Announcer]

Welcome to 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, if you enjoy this podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Also, if you've not already, I do encourage you to check out my ebooks. All I needed to Know I learned from Columbo, and all I needed to Know I Learned from Dragnet. Each examine the careers and history of seven great fictional detectives and policemen and life lessons that can be learned from them. They are available as audiobooks through audible.com and the Apple Store and also wherever fine ebooks are sold. This will be the first network version of Mr. And Mrs. North we've heard in a while. Worth noting that the show at this point has moved from NBC to CBS and also has a new sponsor. Now from May 30, 1945, here is the mystery of the Trigger man.

[Mrs. Lamson]

The.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator]

Tonight, Pam and Jerry north have some gun play with the trigger man who goes off half cocked in the mystery of the trigger Man.

[Jerry North]

Hello, everybody. Hello.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Hello.

[Jerry North]

Is the shampoo that glorifies your hair so.

[Big Mike]

Hello, everybody. Hello.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator]

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[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator]

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[Commercial Announcer]

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[Big Mike]

Halo, everybody.

[Ad Announcer]

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[Big Mike]

Halo Shampoo.

[Jerry North]

Halo.

[Commercial Announcer]

Now tonight's adventure with Mr. And Mrs. North. These hot summer nights when the temperature in New York hovers around 80 and the humidity hovers around the temperature it's easy to understand why the island of Manhattan was sold for $24. On a sweltering night like this one, the Norths would have sold it for less. But rather than complain about the weather, they've decided to go for a ride in their car. The only trouble is Pamela hasn't quite remembered where she parked it.

[Pam North]

Keep looking, Jerry. It must be around here somewhere.

[Jerry North]

Not necessarily, dear. The last time you lost the car, we found it in the garage.

[Pam North]

Well, it isn't there now. I distinctly remember parking it right on this street.

[Jerry North]

Where?

[Pam North]

Between a gray Cadillac and a man with a dog. Of course, the dog may be gone, but the Cadillac should still be here.

[Jerry North]

Well, let's not start looking for the Cadillac. We're having enough trouble finding our own car.

[Pam North]

There it is, Jerry. Sitting right in front of us all the.

[Jerry North]

What's the matter, Ben?

[Pam North]

Don't look now, darling. That man over there is watching us.

[Jerry North]

What man?

[Pam North]

That horrible looking thug across the street. Looks like a gorilla.

[Big Mike]

Where?

[Pam North]

All over. We gotta get in the car, Jerry, before he comes any closer.

[Big Mike]

Hey, wait a minute, you two.

[Pam North]

Is he talking to us?

[Jerry North]

He must be, dear. I don't see any other gorillas around.

[Big Mike]

Kind of surprised to see me, ain't you?

[Pam North]

Oh, well, yes, in a way. We didn't think he'd be allowed out.

[Big Mike]

Oh, I've been out for a long time now. Three months.

[Jerry North]

Out of what?

[Big Mike]

The clink. I mean. Sing Sing. Gotta kinda watch my language, huh?

[Jerry North]

My good man? Would you mind telling us who you are and what you want?

[Big Mike]

You mean you don't recollect me? I'm the guy you saved from the hot seat, Mr. North. I mean, the electric chair.

[Pam North]

Oh, for goodness sake. Big Mike.

[Big Mike]

Yeah, that's it.

[Jerry North]

Oh, well, Big Mike, when did you break out?

[Big Mike]

Oh, I didn't break out, Mr. North. I got time off for good behavior.

[Jerry North]

Oh, now, Mike, you're not capable of good behavior.

[Big Mike]

Ah, you got me wrong, Mr. North. I'm a changed character. Five years as a gardener in a prison made me see the light.

[Pam North]

What light?

[Big Mike]

The light of kindness. The light that shines up from you at a magnolia in the early morning dew. And that's why I'm in a jam. I'm gonna get murdered.

[Jerry North]

Murdered?

[Big Mike]

Well, either that or I'm gonna have to murder somebody myself. Lucky Lamson wants me to bump somebody off for him.

[Jerry North]

Are you kidding?

[Pam North]

Who's Lucky Lamson?

[Big Mike]

My old boss. I used to crack skulls for him in the old days. But that kind of work is foreign to my nature now. I couldn't crush a violet.

[Jerry North]

And Lucky Lampson threatened to kill you.

[Big Mike]

If you don't commit this murder in 48 hours. What am I going to do, Mr. North?

[Jerry North]

Well, you might go to the police.

[Big Mike]

With my record, they wouldn't believe I've seen the light. And if Lucky Lamps never found out I crossed him, he'd plant me in the ground. Now, you gotta help me, Mr. North.

[Pam North]

Then have him plant Jerry in the ground.

[Jerry North]

Now, wait a second, Pam. Mike's in a tough spot.

[Big Mike]

I'll say I am. I gotta kill a guy or get killed myself. It's either his throat or mine, no matter how you slice it.

[Jerry North]

Where do we find this Lucky Lancer?

[Pam North]

Now, Jerry, you're not.

[Big Mike]

He's got a florist shop up on Grove Street.

[Jerry North]

Florist shop?

[Big Mike]

Yeah, he uses it as a blind for his nefarious activities. And I work from there. Only I don't want to pull no more triggers. I just want to gather rosebuds. There it is, Mr. North.

[Jerry North]

See?

[Big Mike]

Lamson's flower shop.

[Pam North]

I don't like it, Jerry. I don't like the idea of trying to solve a murder before it's committed. You can't tell who's going to be the victim.

[Jerry North]

Will you stop worrying, dear? Nothing's going to happen to her.

[Big Mike]

Well, of course not, Mrs. North. I'm the guy that's in trouble. Lucky Lamson's liable to cut my head off just for bringing you here.

[Pam North]

Then what'll he do to us?

[Jerry North]

Come on, darling. It's three against one.

[Pam North]

I don't know that three's enough now that Mike's become a nature boy.

[Big Mike]

Well, it don't matter anyway. Mrs. North, Lucky Lamson ain't here.

[Jerry North]

What do you mean?

[Big Mike]

Well, I guess he closed up for the night.

[Jerry North]

Look.

[Big Mike]

Store's dark.

[Pam North]

Well, let's go home before it gets light again.

[Big Mike]

Wait a second. There's a note on the door.

[Pam North]

What kind of a note?

[Big Mike]

See? It's for me from Lucky.

[Jerry North]

Anything important, dear?

[Big Mike]

Mike, never mind about that 48 hour job. I'll take care of it myself.

[Pam North]

Oh, well, that's a relief. Or is it not?

[Jerry North]

If Lamson's going to murder somebody, take.

[Big Mike]

The night off, Mike. I've gone over to Harry Taylor's place for the rest of the evening. Holy smoke. We gotta get over there right away.

[Jerry North]

Why? What for?

[Big Mike]

Harry Taylor's the guy I was supposed to murder. Ring the bell, Mr. North. Quick. Maybe we can still save him.

[Jerry North]

Are you sure this is the right house, Mike?

[Big Mike]

Well, I don't know, Harry Taylor, but this is the address Lucky Lamson gave me.

[Jerry North]

Pretty fancy looking place.

[Pam North]

You ring the bell, Jerry.

[Jerry North]

All right, dear, all right. What's Lampson's connection with Taylor, Mike? Why did you want it bumped off?

[Big Mike]

I don't know, Mr. North. Mine's not to reason why. I'm just told to pull a trigger.

[Butler]

Yes? Who is it, please?

[Pam North]

It's Mr. And Mrs. North and Big Mike. Who are you?

[Butler]

I'm the butler, madam. What is it you wish?

[Big Mike]

Hey, look, let's not stand on any ceremony, but we wish to see Mr. Taylor before he gets knocked off.

[Jerry North]

When will he be back?

[Butler]

I do not know, sir. I have not been advised, but this.

[Pam North]

Is a matter of life and death. Is Mr. Lamson in there?

[Butler]

Nobody is here, madam.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Oh, well, Lucky, don't do that.

[Jerry North]

Nobody, huh? Who is that?

[Butler]

Do you wish to leave your card, sir?

[Jerry North]

No. We wish to see Mr. Taylor. Somebody's going to murder him.

[Butler]

I'm sorry, sir. Mr. Taylor is not receiving anyone this evening.

[Big Mike]

Not even murderous?

[Butler]

No one.

[Pam North]

Just a minute. I thought you said Mr. Taylor wasn't in. Now, you say he's not receiving anyone. Which is it?

[Butler]

It's simply this, madam. We do not wish to be disturbed.

[Jerry North]

Watch it, Pam. He's got a gun.

[Butler]

And I assure you it's loaded, sir. Now, may I repeat, Mr. Taylor is not at home to any.

[Jerry North]

For Pete's sake, Pam, where are you taking us?

[Pam North]

Around to the back of the house. There must be some way of getting into this place.

[Big Mike]

You mean breaking an entrance? That wouldn't be legal.

[Pam North]

Legal or not, they're murdering Mr. Taylor in there. And that butler's in on it. We've got to stop them.

[Jerry North]

Now, now, take it easy. We haven't any proof that they're murdering Mr. Taylor.

[Pam North]

Well, the least we can do is to find out what's going on here. Give me a boost, Jerry. Maybe I can peek in one of those windows.

[Jerry North]

It won't do much good with those blinds drawn. You won't see a thing.

[Pam North]

Well, then we've got to get into the house.

[Big Mike]

Well, don't look at me, Mrs. North. I'm on parole.

[Pam North]

I know, Mike, but. But this is an emergency. And you could easily break into this house if you wanted to. You're an old second story man.

[Big Mike]

That part of my life is a closed book, Mrs. North.

[Pam North]

Well, couldn't you open it just a little? Just the first few pages? All you have to do is jimmy open that window up there, climb inside and come around to the back door. So you can let us in?

[Big Mike]

If I did, I could never face another petunia.

[Jerry North]

The petunias aren't looking, Mike.

[Big Mike]

All right, Mr. North. But if anything happens to me, don't call the cops.

[Pam North]

Jerry, I can't understand why it's taking Mike such a long time. He went through that window five minutes ago.

[Jerry North]

Maybe he got lost inside.

[Pam North]

Lost? Or waylaid, if that butler ever got a hold of him.

[Jerry North]

Wait a second. Somebody's at the door.

[Pam North]

Anybody we know?

[Jerry North]

Get back. We'll see you in a minute.

[Big Mike]

This is North. Where are you?

[Pam North]

Right here, Mike. Everything all right?

[Big Mike]

Yeah. Hostess, Clear.

[Jerry North]

What took you so long?

[Big Mike]

I almost ran into that crazy butler. Had to hide under the stairs till he got out of the way.

[Pam North]

Did you see anybody else inside?

[Big Mike]

No.

[Jerry North]

Well, let's have a look.

[Pam North]

Be careful, Jerry.

[Jerry North]

I wish we had a flashlight. I don't like the idea of stumbling around in the dark with that butler loose.

[Pam North]

Oh, God. Where are we?

[Big Mike]

In the kitchen, I guess. Rest of the house must be over this way.

[Pam North]

What way?

[Big Mike]

Can't you see the hall?

[Pam North]

I can't even see you.

[Jerry North]

Yes, take my hand, Pam. Only let's be quiet. Darling, will you stop moaning?

[Pam North]

I'm not moaning, Jerry. I'm not even breathing.

[Jerry North]

Well, crying out loud. Mike, is that you?

[Big Mike]

No, but it will be if we don't Find out who's doing it.

[Pam North]

Darling, there's somebody in here with us. There's somebody. There's something.

[Big Mike]

Wait a second. It's coming from over here. In the closet. The broom closet.

[Pam North]

Now, Mike, you know brooms don't make a noise like that.

[Jerry North]

Stand back, Mike. I'll open the door.

[Pam North]

Jerry, it's a witch.

[Big Mike]

Looks more like a woman to me.

[Jerry North]

Quick, Mike, untie her hands. I'll get this gag out of her mouth.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Oh. Oh, thank you.

[Pam North]

Maybe we better get a doctor.

[Mrs. Lamson]

No, no, I'm all right. Just have to catch my breath and. Oh, my head. What happened to me?

[Jerry North]

That's what we'd like to know. How'd you get into this broom closet?

[Commercial Announcer]

Who are you?

[Big Mike]

Hey, it's Mrs. Lamson. Lucky Lamson's wife.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Mike.

[Big Mike]

What are you doing here, Mrs. Lamson?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Well, I. I came over to see Mr. Taylor, and the butler let you in. The butler? Oh, yes. You see, I'm an old friend of Mr. Taylor's.

[Pam North]

You must be an old friend of the butler's too, if he let you in.

[Mrs. Lamson]

What do you mean by that? Who are these people, Mike?

[Big Mike]

Mr. And Mrs. North. They're old friends of mine.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Well, they haven't any right to ask me a lot of silly questions. What do they want?

[Jerry North]

We're only trying to help you, Mrs. Lanson. If you'll just tell us what happened.

[Mrs. Lamson]

I don't know what happened. I was sitting in the living room with Mr. Taylor, and the lights went out. When I tried to turn them on again, someone hit me on the head.

[Pam North]

That's all you remember?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Yes.

[Jerry North]

Well, we better find out what happened to Mr. Taylor.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Wait a minute. Where are you going?

[Jerry North]

Into the living room, if I can find it. Have you any objections?

[Mrs. Lamson]

No. I'll show you the way.

[Jerry North]

All right. Come on, Pam.

[Big Mike]

Wait for me, Mr. North. I ain't gonna be left behind.

[Mrs. Lamson]

I don't know what you're afraid of, Mike. Who would want to hurt you?

[Big Mike]

Nobody, I guess. But people can make mistakes in the dark. Especially when. Hey. Quick, somebody turn on the lights.

[Pam North]

Mike, what's wrong?

[Big Mike]

I. I just stumbled over something. Something that felt like a body.

[Jerry North]

Mrs. Lamson, where's the light switch?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Here. I've got it.

[Jerry North]

Yes, it's a body, all right, with a knife sticking out of its back.

[Pam North]

Are you sure you can't?

[Jerry North]

I'm afraid so, Pam. I'm afraid we got here a little too late to save Mr. Taylor.

[Big Mike]

Mr. Taylor? That ain't Mr. Taylor.

[Jerry North]

What?

[Big Mike]

It's my boss, Lucky Lamson.

[Butler]

Homicide sergeant.

[Big Mike]

Mullins speaking.

[Pam North]

Oh, Mullins, you've got to come over here right away.

[Big Mike]

Where's here?

[Pam North]

Mr. Taylor's house on Grove Street. Something dreadful has happened. Mr. Taylor isn't dead.

[Butler]

Well, what's dreadful about that?

[Pam North]

But he's the one who was supposed to be murdered. Lucky Lampson gave Mike 48 hours to kill him. But he doesn't have to anymore.

[Big Mike]

Who doesn't have to? What are you talking about, Mrs. North?

[Pam North]

Mr. Taylor. Mullins. We came over here to prevent him from being murdered. Only he isn't home. At least we can't find him. Oh, but that's another thing.

[Big Mike]

Wait, wait. There can't be anything else, Mrs. North.

[Pam North]

You've said everything except the butler wouldn't let us in. Very suspicious character, that butler. Only he isn't here now, either.

[Big Mike]

Well, who is there?

[Pam North]

Oh, everybody else. Mrs. Lampson, Jerry, Mike.

[Big Mike]

And you're all having a fine time, I take it.

[Pam North]

No, Mullins, we're having an awful time. Nobody knows what to do.

[Big Mike]

Well, now, this is all very interesting, Mrs. North, but I can't see what it has to do with me. Now, think hard. Didn't you have some reason for calling this office?

[Pam North]

Oh, well, didn't I tell you, Mullins?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Lucky Lamson was murdered.

[Big Mike]

I knew there was murdered. Stay where you are, Mrs. North. I'll be over in five minutes.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Mullins.

[Pam North]

And be here in a few minutes. Jerry, have you found that butler yet?

[Jerry North]

There isn't a sign of him, Pam or Mr. Taylor either.

[Big Mike]

Maybe they were both in on this together. Maybe the butler turned off the lights and Mr. Taylor stuck the knife into Lucky's back.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Oh, that's ridiculous. Mr. Taylor had no reason for killing my husband.

[Pam North]

But maybe you had a reason.

[Mrs. Lamson]

What are you driving at?

[Pam North]

Well, I'm not driving at anything, except that you were in the room when the lights went out.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Of course I was in the room, but I was hit over the head.

[Jerry North]

Just a minute, Mrs. Lamson. Where do you think you're going?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Well, I. I need some fresh air. It's hot in here. I thought I'd take a little walk.

[Jerry North]

Oh, no, you don't. You're waiting until Sergeant Mullins arrives.

[Butler]

I beg your pardon, sir, but Mrs. Lamson is leaving now.

[Big Mike]

Jerry is the butler with that gun again?

[Butler]

I must ask you to stay where you are, everyone. I would like to speak to Mrs. Lamson alone.

[Mrs. Lamson]

What for?

[Pam North]

What do you want?

[Butler]

Come with me, please. That isn't time to ask questions.

[Mrs. Lamson]

All right, I'll come Quickly, madam, through this door.

[Pam North]

Jerry's taking her out on the street.

[Butler]

Exactly. Mrs. Northam, before we leave a word of warning. Don't try to pursue us.

[Big Mike]

I'm going after them. Mr. North.

[Jerry North]

Don't be a fool, Mike. He'll get killed.

[Big Mike]

Well, somebody's got to keep an eye on him. If that butler gets away this time, we'll never find him. I'm going out the back.

[Jerry North]

Mike.

[Pam North]

He's right, Jerry. We ought to go, too.

[Jerry North]

Pam, come back here.

[Pam North]

For goodness sake, let me go.

[Jerry North]

Jerry, you're not leaving this house till Sergeant Mullins gets here.

[Pam North]

All right. You don't have to hold my arms. I'll have black and blue marks right through my sunburn.

[Jerry North]

I'm sorry, darling, but black and blue marks are better than bullet holes.

[Pam North]

There's Mullins now. Hurry, Jerry. If we meet him outside, we can still keep track of Mike.

[Jerry North]

What?

[Pam North]

Come on, darling. Don't be such a poke.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Mullins. Mullins.

[Pam North]

Go right inside. Jerry and I have to look for Mike.

[Butler]

What's that?

[Pam North]

Oh, we haven't time to explain, Mullins. Come on, Jerry.

[Jerry North]

What's that, sister? The body's in the living room. We'll be back later.

[Big Mike]

Wait a minute now. Where is everybody? What? Where are all the people?

[Ad Announcer]

What?

[Big Mike]

No, never mind.

[Butler]

I'll solve this case myself.

[Jerry North]

It's no use, Pam. We'll never find Mike just by wandering around the streets of New York.

[Pam North]

I haven't been wandering here for the last five minutes. I've been following a deliberate course.

[Jerry North]

What do you mean?

[Pam North]

There's a florist shop around the corner.

[Jerry North]

Florist shop? Lamson's Florist Shop. Is that where you've been leading me?

[Pam North]

Why not? We can't catch up with Mrs. Lampson. Maybe we can head her off.

[Jerry North]

Why, darling, what a brilliant uh.

[Big Mike]

Oh.

[Pam North]

What is it, John?

[Jerry North]

You may be a little late. That floor shop isn't dark anymore. There's a light on inside.

[Pam North]

Somebody is in there.

[Jerry North]

Let's find out.

[Pam North]

See anybody?

[Jerry North]

Not yet. Let's go in. Holy. What have they done to this place? It's upside down.

[Pam North]

Gollys. Why would anybody want to wreck a beautiful store like this?

[Jerry North]

There's the answer.

[Pam North]

Where?

[Jerry North]

That safe over there behind the Palms. It's wide open.

[Pam North]

Careful, Jerry. Somebody may be back there.

[Jerry North]

Not anymore. Ripper blew open this safe, got what he wanted and left in a hurry.

[Pam North]

Mr. Taylor?

[Jerry North]

Who knows? It might have been Mrs. Lamson or the butler.

[Pam North]

Watch it.

[Jerry North]

Jerry's coming back around his case. The Palms will hide us.

[Pam North]

Stop taking me. Amazing.

[Big Mike]

See who it is.

[Pam North]

Yes, Mrs. Lamson. How'd you do it.

[Jerry North]

Do it right for the Save. Looking for something, Mrs. Lamson?

[Mrs. Lamson]

You frighten me.

[Jerry North]

Don't try to run away again. You've been away long enough. Where have you been, Mrs. Lamson?

[Pam North]

And what happened to your friend the butler?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Honestly, I don't see why I have to answer your questions.

[Jerry North]

Either you answer us or you answer the police. You're in this pretty deep right now, Mrs. Lampson. And if you don't start telling the truth.

[Mrs. Lamson]

I am telling the truth.

[Jerry North]

And you're not mixed up in this with the butler?

[Mrs. Lamson]

No.

[Pam North]

What about Mr. Taylor? Why did your husband want to kill him?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Well, I. I guess he might have been jealous or something, but he didn't have any reason to be.

[Jerry North]

So that's it. You and Mr. Taylor were close friends? Close enough to make your husband want to kill him.

[Pam North]

And close enough to make you want to kill your husband? No. Oh, it makes awfully good sense, Mrs. Lansome. Either you or Mr. Taylor could have killed your husband to get him out of the way, but you could go on with your love affair.

[Mrs. Lamson]

That's a lie.

[Jerry North]

I'm afraid you'll have to prove that to the police.

[Mrs. Lamson]

All right, all right. I'll go to the police. I'll go right now.

[Jerry North]

Not so fast, Mrs. Lanson. If you don't mind, we'll go with you. This way, Mrs. Lampson. We'll grab a cab on the corner and get right down to headquarters.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Well, don't bother with a cab. My car's right here. Where? Right at the curb. Come on. I'll take you wherever you want to go.

[Jerry North]

Say, this is quite a buggy you've got here. Chopra and everything.

[Pam North]

Wait a minute, Jerry. I don't like this.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Neither do I, Mrs. North, but you better get in. I've got a gun in my hand.

[Pam North]

Well, that's different.

[Jerry North]

Now, look here, Mrs. Lampson.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Get in.

[Jerry North]

Well, if you insist.

[Mrs. Lamson]

That's better.

[Butler]

Where to, Mrs. Lampson?

[Mrs. Lamson]

The highway. And make it snappy.

[Butler]

Yes, ma'am.

[Pam North]

Jerry the chauffeur.

[Jerry North]

What Button?

[Pam North]

He isn't a chauffeur at all. He's that horrid butler.

[Butler]

I'm a man of many talents, Mrs. North.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Keep your mind on the road, Harry.

[Butler]

Yes, ma'am.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Now then, Mr. North, I want that money.

[Jerry North]

What money?

[Mrs. Lamson]

The money you just stole out of my husband's safe. I never dreamed you'd get there before we did.

[Pam North]

Jerry, what's she talking about?

[Mrs. Lamson]

I'll stole, Mrs. North. I know you've got it, and you better give it to me or the two of you are going for a ride.

[Jerry North]

Look, Mrs. Lamson, you're making a terrible mistake.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Hand that money over, Mr. North, before it's too late.

[Pam North]

But we haven't got it.

[Jerry North]

Of course not. Your sweetheart Mr. Taylor must have taken that money. He beat you to it.

[Mrs. Lamson]

You're wasting time, Mr. North. And you haven't got much left.

[Jerry North]

Why couldn't Taylor have taken it?

[Butler]

For a very good reason, Mr. North. Because I'm Mr. Taylor.

[Pam North]

You. How many people are you?

[Butler]

Just one, Mrs. North. I lied to you about being the butler because I had good reasons for not wanting you in my house. But I have no reason to lie to you anymore because you and Mr. North are going for a ride.

[Commercial Announcer]

Well, it looks as if Pam and Jerry are going on a very unpleasant trip. And all they've got is a one way ticket. And now, here's Ron Rawson with good shaving news.

[Narrator]

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[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator]

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[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator]

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[Commercial Announcer]

That's all. But remember, Palm Olive Shave Cream, either brushless or lather, offers proof of more comfortable actually smoother shaves for three men out of every four. Now back to Mr. And Mrs. North.

[Jerry North]

For the 20th time, Mrs. Lamson, will you listen to reasons?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Not your reasons, Mr. North. You've been after that money sincerely this evening. That's why you're broken Mr. Taylor's house.

[Pam North]

We broke in to prevent a murder. And we might have succeeded if you and Mr. Taylor hadn't already killed your husband.

[Butler]

I didn't kill him.

[Jerry North]

Well, one of you did. That's why you've been covering up for each other. All evening. Lucky Lamson was in your way. So you plan to kill him and steal his money.

[Butler]

All right, we plan to kill him. Planning is one thing, execution of those plans another, as you'll soon find out.

[Pam North]

Well, then you admit.

[Butler]

I admit nothing.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Harry, there's a car behind us.

[Butler]

Yeah, she wants to pass. I'll pull over and let him go by.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Why does he keep blowing that hole?

[Butler]

I don't know, but he's not giving me much room. He's trying to crowd us off the road.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Harry, look out.

[Butler]

I'll have to stop. He's forcing me over.

[Pam North]

Grab a gun, Jerry.

[Mrs. Lamson]

You stay where you are or I'll blow your head off.

[Butler]

Leave him alone. We've got to run.

[Pam North]

Harry, wait.

[Butler]

Come on, get out of the car.

[Big Mike]

Oh, no, you don't. Get your hands up and stay where you are.

[Pam North]

Mike.

[Big Mike]

I figured it was about time to close in on the. Mrs. Noah, are you all right?

[Pam North]

Well, we are now. How did you get here?

[Big Mike]

I've been following them all along. Ever since they ducked out of Mr. Taylor's house. Saw him drive up to the florist shop and everything. I was standing right down the block watching him.

[Jerry North]

Then you must have seen us get into the car.

[Big Mike]

You bet I did. I was a block behind you all the way.

[Butler]

Now, what do you think you've proved by all this?

[Big Mike]

Enough to send you to the chair, wise guy. You and Mrs. Lampson were in on the murder together. You knocked off her husband, and you tried to steal his dough. Only the nurse caught you when you cracked open the safe.

[Mrs. Lamson]

That's a lie.

[Big Mike]

Is it? I followed you every step of the way.

[Pam North]

Then it is a lie, Mike.

[Big Mike]

Huh?

[Pam North]

If you were following them, how could you possibly know that the safe was cracked open? According to your story, you were a block behind them in your car.

[Big Mike]

Well, I knew they were going to crack open the safe because.

[Jerry North]

Well, because you cracked it open yourself before they got there. You weren't following them all the time, Mike. You took a few minutes off to steal the money.

[Big Mike]

That's crazy, Mr. North. Stealing is against my principles.

[Pam North]

What about murder? Is that against your principles, too, Mike?

[Big Mike]

Where do you get that stuff? I would murder a geranium.

[Jerry North]

Naturally, Geraniums haven't got any money. But Lucky Lamson had plenty of it. How much would you say it was, Mrs. Lampson?

[Mrs. Lamson]

There was at least 30 grand in.

[Big Mike]

That safe, and half of it belonged to me. Only Lucky wouldn't hand it over.

[Pam North]

Then you did steal the money, Mike.

[Big Mike]

I didn't steal nothing. It was my split for the jobs I'd done. And Lucky promised to give it to me as soon as I got out of stir. I mean, prison.

[Jerry North]

But he didn't give it to you, so you killed him to get revenge.

[Big Mike]

Killed him? What are you talking about? I was with you when he was bumped off.

[Pam North]

Oh, you weren't with us all the time, Mike. You were in that house alone for a full five minutes while we were waiting at the back door.

[Butler]

That's it. That's it. He's the one who turned off the lights.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Turned off the light, stabbed Lucky and hit me over the head.

[Big Mike]

You're crazy, all of you.

[Jerry North]

Not crazy enough to fall for a story like yours. You might not have planned to kill Lucky Lamson in the beginning. When you got into that house tonight, you couldn't resist it. You had a perfect setup, a perfect.

[Pam North]

Alibi and two people to blame the murder on.

[Big Mike]

Get back in the car. Go on. Get back, or I'll kill you too. Oh, my hand.

[Butler]

You're not the only one with a gun, Mike. Why, you love. Sorry, old man. I don't like to interfere with Mrs. Lamson, but I need you to save us the trouble of being tried for murder.

[Jerry North]

Come on, Mike. Sergeant Mullins is waiting. Pam, I know Mike will appreciate the sentiment, but isn't it a little silly to be looking to Mr. Lamson's flower shop for an appropriate wreath for him?

[Pam North]

Well, I'm not looking for a wreath, dear. I just want to send him some sort of a what?

[Jerry North]

For dragging us into his private argument with Lucky Lamson. He just wanted us to frighten Lamson into splitting that money with him.

[Pam North]

What money?

[Jerry North]

The money that was in that safe. Mike thought Lamson would get scared as soon as he saw us. Only it didn't work out that way.

[Pam North]

Well, let's not talk about the murder anymore, Jerry. Not with all these beautiful flowers around. Oh, look, darling. Wouldn't those roses look lovely in our living room?

[Jerry North]

Now, don't get any ideas. Those roses are $15 a dozen.

[Pam North]

You haven't brought me any flowers since our second anniversary. What about these geraniums? Aren't they gorgeous at $12 a dozen?

[Jerry North]

No, no, don't be funny, dear. Here's a flower I like. Two and a half dollars a dozen. And very pretty, too.

[Pam North]

All right, Jerry, I'll take the snapdragons.

[Jerry North]

Are you happy now, darling? I'm in clover.

[Commercial Announcer]

Remember, every Tuesday night at the same time, the colgate Palmolive Feet Co. Makers of Halo shampoo to glorify your hair and Palmolive shave creams for a smoother, more comfortable way to shave. Bring you Mr. And Mrs. North starring Joseph Curtin and Alice Frost. The characters are based on those originally created created by Francis and Richard Lockridge. Original music is composed and conducted by Charles Paul. The program is produced and directed by John Lupton. Joe King speaking.

[Narrator]

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[Commercial Announcer]

Be sure you join us again next Tuesday when Pam and Jerry north read between the lines of the newest murder at the public library. In the mystery murder is stranger than fiction. This is CBS where 99 million people gather every week. The Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Sergeant Mullins]

Most weight loss plans are one size fits all, not taking into account each person's individual needs. NOOM is here to change that. NOOM Weight uses psychology. That's why they say losing weight starts with your brain, but it also takes into account your unique biological factors which also affect weight loss success. The program helps you understand the science behind your eating choices and why you have cravings. Everyone's journey is different, so your daily lessons are personalized to you and your goals. One of the great things about NOOM is that it's nourishing instead of restrictive. They focus on progress instead of perfection. You don't have to give up carbs or anything for that matter. Have cravings Food fomo. NOOM can help you lose weight while still enjoying your favorite foods. To date, Noom has helped more than 5.2 million people lose weight. Stay focused on what's important to you with NOOM psychology and biology based approach. Sign up for your trial [e-mail] that's n o o m dot com.

[Jerry North]

How do you feel when you switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance? It's like getting right out of bed. Late for work, yet your hair looks immaculate. No blow dryer, no comb, no sculpting gel. Just a flawless look as if you walked out of your house and straight.

[Narrator]

Onto the COVID of a men's fashion magazine.

[Jerry North]

Good morning, Steven. Oh, have you done something new with your hair? It looks amazing. They don't have the slightest clue.

[Big Mike]

You were half asleep drooling on your.

[Jerry North]

Pillow not 10 minutes ago. Yep, switching and saving with Geico feels just like that.

[Narrator]

Get more with Geico.

[Ad Announcer]

Welcome back. Well, it's interesting to see a Ralph Bell character try to pretend to be a butler. It's a unique performance that does give some insight as to why you don't hear him cast as a butler. I will say I didn't like Pam's characterization in this story as I think she was kind of hysterical a lot compared to her being much more steady in the episodes we heard earlier in the series and it seems to be without rhyme or reason. About 2/3 of the series she was just very, very nervous and afraid and then about a third of episode she was fine. Also, the flower prices seemed crazy. $15 for a dozen roses in 1945 would be $250 today. It makes me curious what was going on with flower prices in 1945 or if it was just the nature of the shop they were in. While the date I have for this episode is May 30, 1945, I question whether that's the right date. The intro to the story sounds as if the story was released deeper into summer. Of course, May 30th is it technically summer, though it's Memorial Day and can feel quite hot. The intro really evokes August, maybe late July, but not May. But it's the only information I have. But if it turns out to be wrong, I will not be surprised. Alright, well, listener comments and feedback and we start with a comment that I have embarrassingly not been able to get to because it's been on Spotify where comments have been appearing and disappearing and if I don't get it done now, it's just going to be too late. But this goes back quite a ways to the Wilbur Wills matter. And the Lion's eye writes Howard Duff. I caught right away, but listen again. Was Stats Cotsworth the nephew? We know him best as Casey, Crime Photographer. Well, thanks for the question. I'm not 100% certain I could definitely hear that as a possibility, but there are certain actors who I can recognize without hesitation. Unfortunately, he's not one of them. Then we have an email from Derek who writes, first of all, I'm so sorry about your dad, but I'm so happy you get to spend time with him. You and he will be in my prayers. However, your recent intro say you're recording in Montana. It occurred to me as a listener we just take your word for it. I thought how funny it would be if you treated the podcast like Dangerous Assignment, there are many strange and exotic locations you could say you are recording from. I know you are not the kind to lie, but I still laugh when I think about it. Well, thank you so much. I appreciate your kind comments and prayers and same to everyone who has reached out. It of course has never occurred to me I would rather be actually recording from exotic locations rather than making it up. Though probably for simplicity's sake, it's best if I limit my travels for recording to the United States. With most of my podcasts, it's such a habitual thing to state where I'm recording from, which is usually Boise. And I felt really blessed that I actually first take I did in Montana, I managed to say Kalispell because when I was recording earlier this year from Orlando, I kind of messed that up a couple of times and I think even one episode got out with the wrong location tag. I'm so used to saying from Boise. Although over the years of course we've done Montana, Orlando and several years back we were in Ohio and I think I did a couple of podcasts for Old Time Radio, Superman and or Dragnet from Merino. And then finally we have a comment from Dave who just writes very nice, enjoyed very much. Thank you over on YouTube regarding Pam keeps out of Trouble well now it is time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to thank Kathy. Kathy's been one of our Patreon supporters since February, currently supporting the podcast at the seamus level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support Kathy 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. Mr. And Mrs. North will return in three weeks, but be sure and enjoy some wonderful encore programming the next couple of weeks. But before that, join us back here tomorrow for yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Where.

[Big Mike]

Hi, how do you do?

[Commercial Announcer]

My name is Dollar.

[Big Mike]

Johnny Dollar.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Oh Johnny Dollar. Why didn't you come before?

[Big Mike]

What?

[Mrs. Lamson]

He begged you to come, didn't he? To come right away, Mr. Denham?

[Commercial Announcer]

Yes, but I told him.

[Mrs. Lamson]

Why didn't you? You might have saved him.

[Jerry North]

Saved him?

[Mrs. Lamson]

Yes, saved him. We buried him this morning and I think he was murdered.

[Ad Announcer]

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

[Sergeant Mullins]

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