Mr. and Mrs. North: Who KIlled Mr. Stefano? (EP4626)

Summary

Summary of "Mr. and Mrs. North: Who Killed Mr. Stefano?" (EP4626)
The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Released: February 13, 2025

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, listeners are immersed in the suspenseful world of Mr. and Mrs. North as they unravel the mysterious murder of Victor Stefano. Hosted by Adam Graham, the podcast brings to life the classic detective audio drama from the Golden Age of Radio, showcasing the sharp minds and keen instincts of the Norths as they navigate through deceit, hidden motives, and intricate clues.

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Episode Plot Summary

1. The Premonition

The story begins with Victor Stefano, a renowned baritone singer, seeking the help of Mr. and Mrs. North due to his growing paranoia. Victor confides in his manager, Gilbert Speyer, expressing fears that his wife, Yvonne, intends to murder him. His suspicions are based on unsettling behaviors, such as Yvonne’s unexplained nighttime appearances and her unwavering gaze, which leave Victor feeling constantly watched and unsafe.

Quote:
Victor Stefano (03:57): "I can't sleep, I can't eat. I can't even sing anymore."

2. The Norths Take the Case

Concerned by Victor's distress and the lack of concrete evidence, the Norths agree to investigate, believing they might prevent a potential tragedy. They visit Victor’s apartment in midtown Manhattan to assess the situation firsthand.

Quote:
Mr. North (07:03): "Well, shall we go in?"

3. An Empty Apartment and a Sudden Twist

Upon arriving, the Norths discover that Victor Stefano is not present. A telegram is found indicating that Yvonne has canceled their visit due to a theater engagement, leaving no immediate explanation for Victor’s absence. This unsettling development propels the Norths deeper into the mystery.

Quote:
Mr. North (09:17): "Why?"

4. The Revelation of Murder

Shortly after their departure, the Norths receive a distressing phone call from Bill, informing them that Victor has been murdered. The investigation leads them to stop at the Lordo Apartments, where they meet Gilbert Speyer, who appears nervous and evasive. Speyer reveals that Victor died less than an hour prior, sparking suspicions about the true circumstances surrounding the murder.

Quote:
Mr. North (09:41): "Victor Stefano is dead. He was murdered less than an hour ago."

5. Suspicions and Evidence

As the Norths delve into the case, they uncover conflicting accounts and dubious evidence. A pivotal moment occurs when Norman discovers a locket in Victor’s hand, supposedly taken from Yvonne during a struggle. Meanwhile, Yvonne vehemently denies any involvement, pointing fingers towards Sally Ford, Gilbert’s secretary, accusing her of planting evidence to frame herself.

Quote:
Yvonne (12:26): "Then I was framed every step of the way by the only one who could frame you."

6. The Intuitive Breakthrough

Pamela North employs her exceptional intuition to piece together the true sequence of events. She observes inconsistencies in Gilbert Speyer's narrative and the physical evidence presented. Through meticulous observation and logical deduction, Pamela confronts Speyer, exposing his attempt to manipulate the evidence to incriminate Sally Ford.

Quote:
Pamela North (25:36): "When somebody rushes at you with a knife or a letter opener, you don't reach for any lockets. You reach for the hand that's about to kill you."

7. The True Culprit Revealed

The climax unfolds as Pamela successfully uncovers that Gilbert Speyer orchestrated the murder to cover his misuse of Stefano's finances. By planting evidence and manipulating testimonies, Speyer aimed to divert suspicion away from himself. With Pamela’s keen instincts and the Norths' unwavering determination, the true murderer is apprehended, bringing justice to Victor Stefano.

Quote:
Mr. North (27:04): "Pam's hunches are always right, Bill."

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Key Moments with Notable Quotes

• Victor’s Paranoia:

  Victor Stefano (03:57): "I can't sleep, I can't eat. I can't even sing anymore."
  (Timestamp: 03:57)

• Investigating the Apartment:

  Mr. North (07:03): "Well, shall we go in?"
  (Timestamp: 07:03)

• Revelation of Murder:

  Mr. North (09:41): "Victor Stefano is dead. He was murdered less than an hour ago."
  (Timestamp: 09:41)

• Confrontation with Yvonne:

  Yvonne (12:26): "Then I was framed every step of the way by the only one who could frame you."
  (Timestamp: 12:26)

• Intuitive Realization:

  Pamela North (25:36): "When somebody rushes at you with a knife or a letter opener, you don't reach for any lockets. You reach for the hand that's about to kill you."
  (Timestamp: 25:36)

• Final Revelation:

  Mr. North (27:04): "Pam's hunches are always right, Bill."
  (Timestamp: 27:04)

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Host Commentary by Adam Graham

After the episode concludes, host Adam Graham offers insightful commentary on the unfolding of the mystery and the detectives' methodologies.

Adam highlights Jerry North's less-than-convincing manner in wrapping up the case, noting his reliance on force rather than evidence:

Quote:
"A less than convincing save by Jerry North at the end of the episode."
(Timestamp: 30:56)

He contrasts this with Pamela North's exceptional intuition, emphasizing her ability to read human behavior and observe subtle clues, drawing parallels to legendary detectives like Hercule Poirot and Father Brown who prioritize psychological insights alongside tangible evidence.

Quote:
"Mrs. North leans heavily into intuition about human behavior in the way that she approaches and solves cases."
(Timestamp: 30:56)

Adam appreciates Pamela's role in resolving the case, lauding her superior deductive skills compared to her counterpart, Jerry North, and other famed detectives of both past and present.

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Conclusion

This episode of Mr. and Mrs. North masterfully intertwines suspense, character development, and classic detective work, showcasing the brilliance of Pamela North's intuitive approach in solving complex mysteries. Through engaging storytelling and carefully crafted dialogue, listeners are treated to a thrilling narrative that exemplifies the charm and intrigue of old-time radio dramas.

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Recommended Listening:
For fans of detective stories and classic radio dramas, The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio offers a treasure trove of mysteries solved by iconic characters. Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform or visit greatdetectives.net to stay updated with the latest episodes.

Transcript

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[Adam Graham]

It's 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. But if you are enjoying the podcast I do encourage you to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Now let me tell you a little bit about Molly B's Gourmet cookies. These aren't your average cookies. Molyb's takes the idea of a classic treat and flips it on its head with bold unforgettable flavors. Chocolate cherry, Amaretto in their be cordial cookie or the boss man loaded with real maple syrup, crispy bacon and whiskey. It's like a gourmet adventure in every bite. Each cookie is artisan crafted in small batches ensuring top notch quality and and that melt in your mouth texture we all love. And here's the best part. Molly B's delivers right to your door. No cookie shop needed. Want to give them a try? Use the code box13 at checkout on mollybees.com to snag 10% off your entire order. It's a special deal I set up for my listeners. And as a full disclosure, I earn a small commission when you use my code. So it's a win win. You get amazing cookies and you support the show. Head over to Molly B's. That's mollybz.com and treat yourself to something extraordinary. Now from December 6, 1950, here is who Killed Mr. Stefano?

[Joseph Curtin]

Mr. And Mrs. North, starring Joseph Curtin and Alice Frost. Unlike most people, Pam and Jerry north don't consider it a crime to be mixed up in a murder. And in some cases, the mix up takes place before the murder even happens. For example, let's take a look into a theatrical office in midtown Manhattan and find out why a popular baritone like Victor Stefano is seeking the advice of his manager, Gilbert Speyer. I tell you, I'm going out of my mind, Gilbert. I can't sleep, I can't eat. I can't even sing anymore. Now, now, calm down a minute. Calm down, he says. How can I be calm when this hangs over my head like a sword? Well, just what is the trouble, Victor? What makes you think your wife is trying to murder you? I told you before, it's the little things, like her staring at me. Like waking up in the middle of the night and finding her hovering over my bed. I'm afraid to let her out of my sight. But what has she actually done, eh? That's just it. Nothing. Nothing I could put my finger on. If I could only catch her at something, my worries would be over. If I could only fathom what is going on in her mind. Now look, Victor, you've been working too hard. Too many appearances at the opera, too many concerts. What has that to do with it? You think I'm imagining all this? Well, if you seriously think your wife is trying to kill you, why don't you go to the police, eh? Because there is nothing to tell them. There is no evidence. That is why I thought of the Norths. They might be able to help me. Mr. And Mrs. North? Why not? They have had experience in murder cases. Perhaps they can prevent one from taking place. But you hardly know them and they've never met your wife. All the more reason for calling them in. He is a publisher, and I can introduce them to Ivan without arousing suspicion. Now, wait a minute, Victor. Oh, no, I can't afford to wait any longer. It may be too late. I'll invite them to my house tonight. All right, all right. If you want to bring in a couple of amateur detectives. Go ahead and invite them. But if I were you, I'd get the police.

[Alice Frost]

Are you sure this is the right apartment?

[Joseph Curtin]

Jerry, darling, there's only one Victor Stefano in this building. Although I must say I can understand why he insisted on inviting us over here. I hardly know the man.

[Alice Frost]

Well, aren't you going to publish his memoirs or something?

[Joseph Curtin]

I will if he'll write them. But the last time I broached the subject, he.

[Alice Frost]

Yes?

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, good evening.

[Alice Frost]

How do you do?

[Joseph Curtin]

I don't believe we've ever had the pleasure of meeting you, Mrs. Stefano. I'm Jerry North.

[Alice Frost]

Who?

[Joseph Curtin]

Jerry north. And this is Mrs. North.

[Alice Frost]

How do you do, Mrs. Stefano. How do you do?

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, shall we go in?

[Alice Frost]

In where?

[Joseph Curtin]

Inside. I mean. We're Mr. And Mrs. North. Weren't you expecting us?

[Alice Frost]

No, Mr. Stefano didn't say a thing. Oh, now isn't that just like a man? He invites people over for an evening and then forgets to tell you about it. Jerry does it all the time. Oh, wait, wait, Mrs. North, wait. Yes? I'd rather you wouldn't go in just now. The place is a mess. Can't we make it some other time? Mr. Stefano insisted on our coming tonight. That's strange. He's not home.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, for Pete's sake.

[Alice Frost]

I'd ask you to come in, but I'm late for an engagement downtown and I still have to dress. Oh, that's perfectly all right. Well, we'll just forget about the whole thing. Well, I'm terribly embarrassed. Oh, don't be silly. We don't mind. Come along, Jerry.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, yes.

[Alice Frost]

Good night, Mr. North.

[Joseph Curtin]

Good night, Mrs. Stefano. Nice to have met you. I don't get it, Pam. I don't get it at all.

[Alice Frost]

What, dear? The fact that Mr. Stefano wasn't here?

[Joseph Curtin]

No, the fact that you insisted on coming back home. Any other night you'd have tried to make a big mystery out of something like this.

[Alice Frost]

Well, it is a mystery in a way, but it seems so personal. I didn't think we had a right to investigate it. Besides, I just know that Mrs. Stefano is innocent.

[Joseph Curtin]

Innocent of what?

[Alice Frost]

Anything.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, I don't know who's responsible for the mix up, but I had a feeling she was lying to us all the time we were at the door.

[Alice Frost]

That's why I believed in her. She lied so badly. Well, isn't it true, Jerry, bad liars are usually nice people?

[Joseph Curtin]

Sorry, but I don't follow that one. And if I. Oh, there's a telegram on the floor.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, who's it from?

[Joseph Curtin]

Wait. A second. Now I'll see. Well, here's the answer to the mystery. Please cancel engagement for tonight. Wife has theater date and can't be home. We'll call you tomorrow morning. Signed, Victor Stefano.

[Alice Frost]

Well, I knew it would be something like that. Only Mr. Stefano should have called up instead of sending us a telegram.

[Joseph Curtin]

Maybe he did while we were out to dinner. After, I'll get a D. Hello? Hi, Bill. How are you? Oh, pretty good. Something on your mind? Well, it isn't exactly a blank. Say, how soon can you and Pam get up to the Lordo Apartments? Lordo Apartments?

[Adam Graham]

Why?

[Joseph Curtin]

We were just up there to see Victor Stefano. That's why I'm calling you. Jerry, Victor Stefano is dead. He was murdered less than an hour ago. What's the story, Bill? How'd it happen? Well, that's exactly what I'm trying to find out.

[Alice Frost]

What are you acting so mysterious about? Is he still there?

[Joseph Curtin]

No, no, the body's been removed. He was murdered in this apartment.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, Bill. When? Who killed him?

[Advertiser]

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[Joseph Curtin]

Leave now, Pam.

[Alice Frost]

But we have to know, Bill. We were here before and we. Oh, I'm sorry. I. I didn't know anybody else was here.

[Joseph Curtin]

Mr. And Mrs. North, this is Gilbert Spire, Mr. Stefano's manager. Oh, how do you do? How do you do? I'm glad you were able to get here, Mr. North. Although I don't understand why you weren't here before. But we were when I told you on the phone. We were here just before you called up. Are you sure you were in this apartment, Mr. Knott? Why, of course.

[Alice Frost]

Mrs. Stefano answered the door.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, she did, did she? What'd she say to you? Well, she acted very peculiar, Bill. She wouldn't let us in. Did she say why?

[Alice Frost]

Well, she. What is this? Why are you cross examining us? Don't you believe we were here? Of course they weren't, Lieutenant. I told you they were lying.

[Joseph Curtin]

What?

[Alice Frost]

I don't know what they're trying to do, but it's a good thing you had me waiting in the other room to hear their story. What story? This lie you're telling about being here. Talking to Mrs. Stefano?

[Joseph Curtin]

Yes. Why are you lying, Mr. Knoff? Who's lying? If you don't think we're telling the truth, just get Mrs. Stefano and we'll prove it.

[Alice Frost]

Mrs. Stefano? Are you crazy? I am Mrs. Stefano.

[Joseph Curtin]

Now, wait a minute. If this woman is Mrs. Stefano, who's the one who answered the door for us?

[Alice Frost]

That is what I would like to know. How did she get into this apartment and what was she doing here?

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, it's beginning to look as if she was here to murder your husband, Mrs. Steffano.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, now, Bill, don't jump to conclusions. I'm sure that sweet little girl had nothing to do with it. She couldn't have.

[Joseph Curtin]

Why not, Mrs. North?

[Alice Frost]

Well, this may sound silly to a man who manages business affairs, but there was something about her, Mr. Spire. Something very soft and. And frightened. Like Little Red Riding Hood.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, for crying out loud.

[Alice Frost]

Well, there was, Bill. She had such a gentle expression and such big, open eyes.

[Joseph Curtin]

Anything like the ones in this picture, Pam?

[Alice Frost]

No. What picture?

[Joseph Curtin]

One I found in this locket.

[Alice Frost]

Here.

[Joseph Curtin]

Here, take a look.

[Alice Frost]

I feel that's her. Whose locket is this?

[Joseph Curtin]

Hers, I imagine. Found it right here in the apartment.

[Alice Frost]

Just a minute, Lieutenant. I know who this woman is.

[Joseph Curtin]

Who?

[Alice Frost]

Mr. Spirer's secretary, Sally Ford.

[Joseph Curtin]

What?

[Alice Frost]

Well, that's her picture, Gilbert. And if she was in this apartment tonight, she must have killed my husband.

[Joseph Curtin]

Why do you say that, Mrs. Stefano? What do you know about Sally Ford?

[Alice Frost]

A great deal more than I want.

[Joseph Curtin]

To know now, Mrs. Stefano, please.

[Alice Frost]

Well, why conceal it, Gilbert? Everybody knows what has been going on.

[Joseph Curtin]

Everybody but me. All I've heard is her name.

[Alice Frost]

Well, I wish I had never heard it. She did everything she could to come between Mr. Stefano and me.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, it wasn't as bad as I'll.

[Alice Frost]

Let, Yvonne, wasn't it? Are you going to stand there and deny there wasn't anything between them?

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, it might have been a harmless flirtation, perhaps, but certainly nothing more.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, how can you say that, Gilbert? I threatened to leave him if he did not give her up this morning. He said he was going to.

[Joseph Curtin]

That's how it happened. She came over here tonight and he told her he was through. So she killed him.

[Alice Frost]

No, I won't believe it. Just because you found her locket in this apartment.

[Joseph Curtin]

I didn't find it in the apartment, Pam. I found it in Mr. Stefano's hand when I examined the body.

[Alice Frost]

Well, that doesn't mean that she killed him.

[Joseph Curtin]

Doesn't it? Now, look at the way this chain's broken. It was torn from her neck during a struggle. Stefano reached out and grabbed this locket in an effort to protect himself. And that's the last thing he ever did.

[Alice Frost]

Bill, are you sure you won't reconsider before Ms. Ford answers a doorbell? After all, arresting an innocent woman.

[Joseph Curtin]

She's not an innocent woman, Pam. And it won't do any good to tell me about Red Riding Hood.

[Alice Frost]

But if you make a false arrest.

[Joseph Curtin]

Pam, Will you let the poor man alone? Yes, Miss Ford.

[Alice Frost]

Yes. Don't be afraid. Miss Ford. You remember us, don't you? Oh, no.

[Joseph Curtin]

I wouldn't try that if I were you. Trying to slam the door won't help your case any. Ms. Ford, I'm Lieutenant Wigan, Homicide.

[Alice Frost]

What do you want of me?

[Joseph Curtin]

I want you to come down to headquarters for questioning. I'm taking you in on suspicion of murder.

[Alice Frost]

But I didn't kill him. I swear I didn't. He was dead when I got there.

[Joseph Curtin]

Who? Don't you know who I was talking about?

[Alice Frost]

Well, I knew he was dead. I admit that much.

[Joseph Curtin]

Then you better come with me and admit the rest of it.

[Alice Frost]

No, wait. I had no reason to kill Mr. Stefano. I was very close to him.

[Joseph Curtin]

Perhaps a little too close. Get your things, Ms. Ford. You're going to be gone for some time.

[Alice Frost]

But you're not even listening to me. Won't you give me a chance to explain?

[Joseph Curtin]

Sure, go ahead. What's your alibi?

[Alice Frost]

Well, I haven't got an alibi. You see, Bill.

[Joseph Curtin]

See what?

[Alice Frost]

A good murderess would have one.

[Joseph Curtin]

Who said she was a good murderess?

[Alice Frost]

I'm not one at all.

[Joseph Curtin]

Then what were you doing in Mr. Stefano's apartment tonight? How'd you happen to be there just about the time of the murder?

[Alice Frost]

He sent for me. I mean, he left a message for me to come there, but he was dead when I opened the door.

[Joseph Curtin]

Is that why you didn't call the police?

[Alice Frost]

Well, I was so frightened. I didn't know what to do. And then the doorbell rang. Is that us? Yes. I didn't know who you were, and I was afraid you'd think I had something to do with the murder, so I didn't let you in.

[Joseph Curtin]

But you could have told us you weren't Mrs. Stefano.

[Alice Frost]

Well, I didn't want to get involved with the police.

[Joseph Curtin]

Then you should have picked up this locket before you left the apartment.

[Alice Frost]

Where did you get that?

[Joseph Curtin]

I found it in Mr. Stefano's hand. He tore it from your neck just before you killed him.

[Alice Frost]

No, somebody put it there. Somebody's trying to frame me.

[Joseph Curtin]

Now, take it easy, Ms. Ford. You're in this deep enough hur. Hey, what's going on here?

[Alice Frost]

Dick, you keep out of this, please.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, wait a minute. Who are you? Dick Ford.

[Alice Frost]

He's my brother, but he doesn't know anything about it.

[Joseph Curtin]

The heck I don't. You're on the wrong track, copper. Sally didn't murder Mr. Stefano. How do you know? Because I did it myself. What do you say I killed him. I did it to get even with him for the way he was treating you. I know it was a crazy thing to do, but I couldn't help myself. I didn't want to kill him. I just wanted to beat him up. What happened? He reached for a gun and I grabbed hold of his arm before for a minute. But he pulled the trigger before I could get the gun out of his hand. Bullet went right through him. Well, I'm sorry, Mr. Ford, but you can't protect your sister with a story like that. What do you mean? I kill him in self defense. Oh, sure, sure. You shot him with his own gun. Only he wasn't shot, Mr. Ford. He was stabbed. It's no use, Pam. Bill's got an airtight case against her and there's nothing you can do about it.

[Alice Frost]

Well, I'm not gonna let her spend the night in jail just because he arrested her. I just know she's innocent.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, I don't. That brother of hers looks like a cutthroat. That probably runs in the family.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, don't be silly, Jim. She isn't anything like her brother.

[Joseph Curtin]

All right, all right. I'm sorry I mentioned it. Now let's go home and get some sleep. We've been walking all over the city of New York.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, but it's so nice out, Jerry. Let's just walk a little while longer.

[Joseph Curtin]

But Paula, where are you taking me to?

[Alice Frost]

Oh, no play, no play.

[Joseph Curtin]

Sir, isn't that Mr. Stefano's apartment house on the corner?

[Alice Frost]

Oh, is it?

[Joseph Curtin]

As if you didn't know. What's the idea of dragging me back here? What are you up to now?

[Alice Frost]

Well, so much has been left undone, Jerry. I mean, there's no actual proof that Sally is the one who.

[Joseph Curtin]

What's the matter?

[Alice Frost]

Over there at the side entrance of the building that Mrs. Stefano.

[Joseph Curtin]

It is a fat. I wonder what she's doing there.

[Alice Frost]

Well, let's ask her. Mrs. Stefano? Oh, just a minute, Mrs. Duvalo. Don't run away.

[Joseph Curtin]

What's going. She tucked into that alley as soon as you called her. Do you think she heard me? Of course she did. Quick, let's follow her.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, are you into that dark alley?

[Joseph Curtin]

Probably leads to the basement of the building. Come on, dear. We'll lose her if we don't hurry. Easy now. She must be around here somewhere.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, Jerry. Sort of creepy in here. Nothing but dark walls to look at.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, don't look at the walls, dear. Look for Mrs. Stefano.

[Alice Frost]

She could be lurking behind anyone. Oh, gosh, what was that?

[Joseph Curtin]

I'm sorry. I bumped into an ashcan.

[Alice Frost]

I wish you'd tell me when you're gonna do things like that. I thought I was dead. Mrs. North. Good hell, it's me. Mrs. North. Mrs. Stefano.

[Joseph Curtin]

What are you trying to do, scare the life out of us?

[Alice Frost]

Oh, I'm sorry. I did not mean to frighten. What did you mean to do? Why did you run away from us just now? Got a call to come downstairs just now? A man with a mysterious voice called up and told me to meet him here. Just now? Yes. He said he'd kill me if I told anyone about it, so I was afraid to speak to you. Where is this man? I don't know.

[Joseph Curtin]

Sounds awfully phony to me.

[Alice Frost]

Me too. That phone call probably was a trick to get you out of the house. Somebody wanted to be in your apartment while you weren't there. What for?

[Joseph Curtin]

I don't know, but we better get right upstairs and find out.

[Alice Frost]

Anybody inside?

[Joseph Curtin]

I don't see anybody.

[Alice Frost]

Well, let's look around. My goodness. Sounds like there's somebody in the kitchen.

[Joseph Curtin]

Wait, it's. I'll go see.

[Alice Frost]

Here. This way, Mr. North. The pantry door's right over here. Can you see through the glass?

[Joseph Curtin]

Just about. There's a man in there fiddling around with the refrigerator.

[Alice Frost]

What's he doing?

[Joseph Curtin]

Holy mackerel. It's Dick Ford, the girl's brother.

[Alice Frost]

Open the door, quick.

[Joseph Curtin]

All right, just let me get my hand on something solemn.

[Alice Frost]

I will.

[Joseph Curtin]

Now stand back. There we are, Mr. Ford. For what? There we are, I said. Or I'll hit you over the head with this chair. I. I wasn't doing anything. No? What'd you come here for? And why'd you call up Mrs. Stefano and threaten to kill her? Because I. I wanted to search this apartment.

[Alice Frost]

Search it for what?

[Joseph Curtin]

Evidence. Somebody's trying to frame my sister and I've got to prove she didn't do it.

[Alice Frost]

Well, that's no excuse for threatening my life.

[Joseph Curtin]

Maybe it isn't, but I'm glad I came here just the same. Look what I found behind the stove, Mr. Noye. What? The murder weapon. All wrapped up in some newspapers with a pair of blood stained gloves.

[Alice Frost]

Let me see those gloves.

[Joseph Curtin]

Just a minute, Mrs. Ste. I'll take those gloves.

[Alice Frost]

But they're mine.

[Joseph Curtin]

You bet your life they're yours. They've got your initials on them.

[Alice Frost]

Then Mrs. Stefano was the one. No, I didn't.

[Joseph Curtin]

We'll see about that. Mrs. Stefano at police headquarters. Yes? Mr. And Mrs. North are here to see you, Lieutenant. Okay, Cinnamon, you Want me to go, Lieutenant? Oh, no, no, no. Stay where you are, Mr. Spire. The north will be interested to know what you've been telling me about Mrs. Stefano and her husband's suspicions about her. At least it explains why. Bill, I've got to talk to you. Bill. Oh, well, what's all the excitement about, Jerry? We've got the murderer.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, really we have, Bill. She's right outside.

[Joseph Curtin]

You mean she's downstairs in a nice little cell? I've got Miss Sally Ford under lock and key.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, well, you just better let her out because she didn't commit the murder. It was Mrs. Stefano.

[Joseph Curtin]

Mrs. Stefano? That's right, Bill. We've got the murder weapon and the glove she wore when she used it. Here, look. Hey, what kind of gag is this? No gag. Dick Ford found this package behind the stove in Mrs. Stefano's apartment. Well, he must have plain it there himself, a crazy fool. This isn't the murder weapon.

[Alice Frost]

How do you know?

[Joseph Curtin]

Because I've got the murder weapon right here in my desk. I've had it there for some time.

[Alice Frost]

Are you sure it's the right one?

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, of course I'm sure. I found it myself, didn't I?

[Advertiser]

Where?

[Alice Frost]

How do you know it's the one that killed Mr. Stefano?

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, I know all right. Because I found it in Mr. Stefano's body.

[Alice Frost]

I don't understand it. I. I just don't understand it, Bill.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, you would if you'd stop trying to defend the wrong person. You see, Pam, the murder weapon isn't a knife. It's a letter opener with a steel blade five inches long. And now that I've had time to make a few inquiries, I found out who it belongs to. Who? Mr. Spire's secretary, Sally Ford. Isn't that right, Mr. Spire? Now just a moment, Lieutenant. I never made any such statement. I told you Ms. Ford had a letter opener like the one you've got there. But I didn't say that one was hers. Well, it is just the same. Her fingerprints were all over it.

[Alice Frost]

But what about the knife and the blood stained gloves?

[Joseph Curtin]

They were just plants, dear. Dick Ford was trying to frame Mrs. Stefano for the sake of a sister. Exactly.

[Alice Frost]

Well, I still don't believe that Sally did it.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, if you need personal proof, I think I can give it to you. You'll see in just a moment. Tom. Yes, sir? Send Ms. Sally Ford in here, will you? I'd like to speak to her. Yes, sir.

[Alice Frost]

Bill, what are you up to?

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, I. I don't usually do things like this, Pam, but just to convince you and Mr. Spire that Sally is guilty. I'm going to confront her with a murder weapon and let you watch her reaction. I don't get it, Bill. What'll her reaction prove? Plenty. I think if she's innocent, she should have no reaction at all. And if she's guilty? If she's guilty, Mr. Spire, this letter opener will make her very uncomfortable. In fact, it might even drive her into a confession.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, she won't react to that letter opener at all.

[Joseph Curtin]

Won't she?

[Alice Frost]

No, because it isn't hers. And she didn't kill Mr. Stefano.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, she's at the door.

[Alice Frost]

You wanted to see me, Lieutenant?

[Joseph Curtin]

Yes, come in, Ms. Warren. How do you feel?

[Alice Frost]

All right. Yes. You letting me go?

[Joseph Curtin]

Why? No, no. I just wanted to ask a few more questions.

[Alice Frost]

About what?

[Joseph Curtin]

About this letter opener, Ms. Ford.

[Alice Frost]

Good heavens.

[Joseph Curtin]

Do you happen to know who it belongs to?

[Alice Frost]

Where did you get that?

[Joseph Curtin]

Answer my question, Ms. Ford. Do you know who it belongs to?

[Alice Frost]

Yes, it belongs to me.

[Joseph Curtin]

I thought so.

[Alice Frost]

But what's it doing here? How did you get hold of it?

[Joseph Curtin]

I got hold of it when the medical examiner removed it from Mr. Stefano's body. No. Don't say no, Ms. Ford. It's the weapon that was used to commit the murder. And you are the one who used it.

[Alice Frost]

No, I didn't. I haven't seen that letter opener for over a week. It's been missing from my desk.

[Joseph Curtin]

Can you prove that?

[Alice Frost]

Well, I can't actually prove that it was missing. But it was. Don't you see? I'm being framed by the one who stole it.

[Joseph Curtin]

I don't see anything of the kind. And if you can't prove what you say, you'll go to the chair for the murder of Victor Stefano.

[Alice Frost]

I won't. I won't. I tell you how well she got the letter.

[Joseph Curtin]

Here, you put that down.

[Alice Frost]

Stay where you are.

[Joseph Curtin]

Put it down. Well, that's better. Now sit down and behave yourself. Well, Pam, are you satisfied?

[Alice Frost]

Completely, Bill. Now I know she didn't do it.

[Joseph Curtin]

What?

[Alice Frost]

You proved it yourself by what you just did.

[Joseph Curtin]

Oh, Sally.

[Alice Frost]

Well, it's simple, Bill. When she came at you with that letter opener, what did you do?

[Joseph Curtin]

Reached out for a hand, of course.

[Alice Frost]

Well, exactly. And that's what any man would have done, including Mr. Stefano.

[Joseph Curtin]

I still don't follow you.

[Alice Frost]

But we'll figure it out. Bill. Your whole case against Sally is based on the fact that her locket was found in the dead man's hand. And according to your theory, Mr. Stefano ripped it from her Neck when she came at him with a letter opener. Well, what about it don't you understand, Bill? When somebody rushes at you with a knife or a letter opener, you don't reach for any lockets. You reach for the hand that's about to kill you.

[Joseph Curtin]

Then the locket was planted in Mr. Stefano's hand after he was murdered.

[Alice Frost]

Of course it was. It was planted there by the real murderer.

[Joseph Curtin]

And the real murderer invited Ms. Ford to Stefano's apartment so she could take the blame for.

[Alice Frost]

Then I was framed every step of the way by the only one who could frame you.

[Joseph Curtin]

Who?

[Alice Frost]

Oh, don't you know, Mr. Spire? Or were you too busy noticing Ms. Ford's reactions to the letter opener? Too busy to notice your own?

[Joseph Curtin]

I beg your pardon?

[Alice Frost]

Your little trap worked, Bill. Only it worked on Mr. Spire instead of Ms. Ford. He was scared to death she wouldn't react properly.

[Joseph Curtin]

That's a lie. You can't prove anything against me. I had no reason for killing Stefano. He was my best client.

[Alice Frost]

And you took him for plenty, Mr. Spire. As his business manager, you had charge of all his financial affairs. And you could use his money whatever way you please.

[Joseph Curtin]

Don't be a fool.

[Alice Frost]

Don't you be one. What I'm saying is the truth. Mr. Stefano suspected you of misusing his money and he told me so. He told me he was going to ask you for an exact accounting. And you were afraid to face that accounting, so you killed him and framed your own secretary.

[Joseph Curtin]

Watch him, Bill. Oh, no, you don't. You're not getting out of here just yet, Mr. Spire. Let me go. Not for a long time, Mr. Spire. Not until we've had a chance to take your fingerprints and see that they match the ones on the inside of this locket. Come with me, Mr. Spire. Going to have your picture taken? Well, Pam, your hunch about Ms. Ford was absolutely right. Spires the guilty man. And his account books furnished the motive he swindles to follow out of almost half his property. Well, Pam's hunches are always right, Bill.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, not always.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, almost. You know, I don't know why I bother about clues and things when you're around. I should just blindfold you and let you point to the murder.

[Alice Frost]

I don't think I'd have pointed to Mr. Spire, Bill. Not until you twisted that letter opener out of Sally's hand. Now that's another reason. I knew she was innocent from the very beginning.

[Joseph Curtin]

What?

[Alice Frost]

Her hands. They were so soft and attractive.

[Joseph Curtin]

Yes, they were sort of pretty, weren't they? Sort of small and dainty like a little girl.

[Alice Frost]

Oh, is that so? I didn't know that you'd taken to noticing other women's hands, Jerry.

[Joseph Curtin]

Well, I didn't really notice them, darling. I was just following one of your hunches. The adventures of Mr. And Mrs. North are brought to you through the facilities of the United States Armed Forces Radio Service.

[Advertiser]

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. A less than convincing save by Jerry north at the end of the episode. Other than that, a good story where Pam saves the day by convincing the police to do their jobs. I mean, getting an arrest done without actually taking all the potential suspect's fingerprints. Particularly when apparently there were unidentified fingerprints and Wigan threatening her with the electric chair. It's chameleon like bluster without chameleon like competence. Now, Mrs. North leans heavily into intuition about human behavior in the way that she approaches and solves cases. Now, many, both then and now, might have looked on this as a bit of a stereotypical feminine trait. However, there were many male detectives who had a similar intuition based on their observations of human behavior and didn't just rely on finding the raw evidence and clues. Poirot is a good example. Father Brown is an even better one. And of course, there are other types of intuition. Johnny Dolor tends to rely on intuition, but his tends to be those sort of six sense hunches where you know something but you don't know how you know it. Now I will say, based on the sample of programs we have, Pam's intuition tends to be a little bit better than Johnny Dollar's, at least so far. Alright, well, now it is time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to go ahead and thank Mona. Mona has been one of our patreon supporters since June 2016, currently supporting the podcast at the rookie level of $2 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Mona. 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'll be back next Thursday with another episode of Mr. And Mrs. North, but join us back here tomorrow. For yours truly, Johnny Dollar Wear.

[Joseph Curtin]

Look, she's a pretty tough customer when she wants to be so and if.

[Alice Frost]

You silly stupid income poop starts all.

[Joseph Curtin]

Right Meg, take it easy.

[Alice Frost]

Take it easy. If you blink an idiom think you can keep a decent self respected lady.

[Joseph Curtin]

I said take it easy.

[Alice Frost]

And I say and I oh Johnny.

[Joseph Curtin]

Darling, me ever loving boy I make.

[Alice Frost]

You old rascal sweetheart, I know you'd come to save me out of this horrible place.

[Joseph Curtin]

Yeah, well, that pretty much depends on you. On what you're able to tell me about this whole thing.

[Alice Frost]

You bet I'll tell you.

[Joseph Curtin]

Only. Only. Johnny, what's the matter?

[Alice Frost]

Sure, I'll tell you all I know. It'll be the honest truth, Johnny boy. But don't you see? The only evidence I can give is enough to hang me.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box13GreatDetactives.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.

[Advertiser]

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