Murder Clinic: A Scrap of Lace (Encore) (EP4595)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio: "Murder Clinic: A Scrap of Lace (Encore)"

Introduction

In the 550th episode of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham presents an encore of "Murder Clinic: A Scrap of Lace." Originally aired in the early 1940s, this episode delves into the mysterious death of Louise Mayfield, showcasing the sharp investigative skills of Madame Rosika Story, a pioneering female detective from the Golden Age of Radio. This detailed summary captures the episode's key points, character dynamics, and the intriguing unraveling of the mystery.

Episode Overview

Release Date: January 8, 2025
Original Airing: July 1942 - October 1943
Detective: Madame Rosika Story
Source Material: Adapted from a 1926 short story in the collection Madam Story by Hulbert Footner.

Plot Summary

The episode opens at Caris Woods, the imposing Kruger estate in Upper Westchester, where Mimi Kruger and her social secretary, Teresa de Guillon, discuss the upcoming dinner party. Tensions rise as Mimi expresses concerns over Louise Mayfield’s odd behavior, particularly her reluctance to attend the dinner and her evident dissatisfaction with an arranged marriage to Vera McPeak (07:20-08:16).

Key Interactions and Suspenseful Moments

• Mimi Kruger and Louise Mayfield (07:20-09:15):

  • Mimi urges Teresa to enforce attendance at the dinner party, highlighting Louise’s unusual behavior and her ongoing conflict with Jack Rowcliffe, who is attempting to break off his engagement to Vera McPeak for Louise's sake.
  • Quote:
    Mimi Kruger (07:20): "Louise is very lovely. And I find Vera a very trying guest. In fact, I find it all very trying, Mr. Guillon."

• Jack Rowcliffe’s Confession (10:22-10:58):

  • Jack confronts Louise, revealing his love and desperation, which culminates in a heated argument.
  • Quote:
    Jack Rowcliffe (10:22): "You're mine. I'll have you or no one else will."

• Discovery of Louise’s Death (14:01-16:04):

  • After the dinner party, Louise is found dead, suspected of asphyxiation. Mimi Kruger seeks the expertise of Madame Rosika Story, introducing her as a practical psychologist and professional crime solver.
  • Quote:
    Madame Rosika Story (15:45): "It's our job to find out who killed her."

Investigation and Uncovering Clues

Madame Rosika Story meticulously examines the scene and the evidence, particularly focusing on a missing lace handkerchief received by Louise. Her interrogation reveals inconsistencies in the testimonies of the attendees, including Jack Rowcliffe and Vera McPeek.

• Interrogation of Jack Rowcliffe (20:06-21:33):

  • Story confronts Jack about his suspicious presence at Louise’s window and the missing handkerchief.
  • Quote:
    Madame Rosika Story (20:06): "You came around back here in the garden. You saw a light in her window, called her, got no answer."

• Discovery of the Murder Weapon (25:00-28:44):

  • Madame Story reveals that the lace handkerchief was impregnated with a deadly poison, activated by alcohol in perfume.
  • Quote:
    Madame Rosika Story (28:43): "This handkerchief in my hand is impregnated with a deadly poison. When moistened with alcohol, it releases a lethal gas which is instantly fatal."

Climactic Reveal and Resolution

Through strategic questioning and psychological insight, Madame Story deduces that Mimi Kruger orchestrated Louise’s murder to protect her social standing and the Kruger family's reputation. The use of the poisoned handkerchief as a murder weapon is a calculated move to eliminate a perceived threat without direct confrontation.

• Final Confrontation (28:00-30:41):
  • As the handkerchiefs are examined, it becomes evident that Mimi’s involvement seals her guilt.
  • Quote:
    Madame Rosika Story (30:14): "Think that over, Ms. McPeak. Think that over."

Character Analysis

• Madame Rosika Story: A trailblazing female detective, Story is portrayed as intelligent, perceptive, and unafraid to challenge societal norms. Her ability to remain composed and methodical under pressure highlights her as a formidable investigator.

• Mimi Kruger: The epitome of high society, Mimi's facade of control masks her desperation to maintain her status, leading her to orchestrate murder to eliminate threats.

• Jack Rowcliffe: Initially appearing as a lovesick suitor, Jack’s vulnerability and hidden motives add complexity to the narrative, showcasing the multifaceted nature of characters in classic detective dramas.

• Vera McPeek: Representing the societal pressures and the clash between personal desires and social expectations, Vera's antagonistic role underscores the themes of manipulation and deceit.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mimi Kruger on Vera McPeek:
  Mimi Kruger (07:58): "She's like a daughter to me. But take my place. Why? Surely you're joking, my dear."

• Jack Rowcliffe’s Desperation:
  Jack Rowcliffe (10:22): "I want you to marry me. There's nothing I wouldn't do for you."

• Madame Story’s Insight on Gender Advantage:
  Madame Rosika Story (06:13): "Most people think so, Mr. Knight. But you see, being a woman gives me one great advantage."

• Revelation of the Murder Weapon:
  Madame Rosika Story (28:43): "This handkerchief in my hand is impregnated with a deadly poison."

Host’s Commentary

After the dramatic conclusion, Adam Graham reflects on Madame Rosika Story’s character and the episode’s stylistic elements. He notes the melodramatic flair typical of the era's radio dramas, comparing it to other shows like Mr. Keen, Tracer of Lost Persons and The Hummers. Graham highlights Story’s uniqueness among female detectives of the time, emphasizing her professional approach and independence, which set her apart from contemporaries like Miss Marple or Lady Molly of Scotland Yard.

• Adam Graham’s Insights:
  Adam Graham: "Madame Story was definitely somewhat unique character for the era. There were some other female detectives such as Marple, and then there was Lady Molly of Scotland Yard... But unlike Lady Molly, Story was a true crime solving professional."

Graham also appreciates the episode's portrayal of procedural investigation and the clever use of the handkerchief as both a symbolic and literal tool for murder, underscoring the ingenuity of old-time radio mysteries.

Conclusion

"Murder Clinic: A Scrap of Lace" exemplifies the rich storytelling and intricate character dynamics that define the Golden Age of Radio detective dramas. Through Madame Rosika Story’s astute observations and methodical investigation, listeners are treated to a compelling narrative that intertwines personal vendettas with cunning criminal acts. Adam Graham’s presentation and insightful commentary further enhance the appreciation of these timeless mysteries, inviting both nostalgia and admiration for the era’s classic radio fiction.

Listeners eager for more will find anticipation in Graham’s mention of upcoming episodes, including adaptations from the Poirot radio series, promising continued exploration of beloved detective tales.

For more engaging summaries and episodes, subscribe to The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio on your preferred podcast platform or visit greatdetectives.net.

Transcript

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[Adam Graham]

Today we're bringing you another encore of an episode based on a book or short story. A reminder that any offers or information mentioned in these older episodes are not valid unless currently displayed on our Great Detectives website. Now enjoy today's encore. Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time radio from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham. Welcome to our 550th episode special. If you have a comment, email it to me box [e-mail] give us a call 208-991-4783 and become one of our friends on Facebook. This 550th episode special is brought to you by the support of our listeners. Thank you so much for all your financial support. Well, we're going to bring you something really special. It's the first time we played an episode of the series Murder Clinic. I think I talked about this series about a year or so ago when I first discovered it, but this is the first time we're playing it. Murder Clinic was a series that aired for about 16 months over WOR Mutual in New York. That was the flagship station of the Mutual Broadcasting System aired from July of 1942, with the last series ending October 27th of 1943. And what murder Clinic did is each episode adapted a well beloved detective story from some of the popular detectives of the era. Some remain fairly well known with fans to this day such as Parker Pine, Father Brown, Philip Trent, Gideon Fell, Poirot, and the Old man in the Corner as well as Many others. Unfortunately, most of these episodes have been lost. Of the six episodes that survived, five are featuring detectives that most people would not recognize but still had a great deal of popularity towards the beginning to middle part of the 20th century. As we're bringing you Candy Matson, I thought it'd be good to bring out a kind of precursor character to Candy Matson. And that is Madame Rosika Story. Rosika's story was the brainchild of Canadian novelist Hulbert Footner, and she was a female crime solver. She presented herself in the books as a practical psychologist. Her stories appeared for 12 years, amounting to five novels and a total of 30 short stories. Unlike other female crime solvers of the era, Story was a professional who earned money for her services and never married. During the 12 year run of the series she was accompanied in her adventures by her secretary, Bella Brickley, who was kind of her Dr. Watson. This particular story that Murder Clinic did was originally done as a short story published 16 years before in 1926 in the collection Madam Story. So from September 22nd of 19422 with Madame Rosika Story. Here he is, the Scrap of Lace.

[Narrator]

Murder Clinic. Stories of the world's great detectives. Men against Murder. Each week at this time wo our mutual turns the spotlight on one of the world's great detectives of fiction and invites you to listen to the story of his most exciting case. Tonight, Madame Rosika's story in the Scrap of late. Good evening, Madame Story. Your being at Murder Clinic is certainly a novelty.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You're surprised to see a woman detected, Mr. Knight?

[Narrator]

That's right. And even more surprised to see a very beautiful detective. It's a queer business for a woman.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Most people think so, Mr. Knight. But you see, being a woman gives me one great advantage. My adversaries usually underestimate me.

[Narrator]

Yes, I suppose they would. Now, what's the tale you're going to tell us, Madam Story?

[Madame Rosika Story]

It's called the Spirit. I chose it because it seems to me so unusual a crime. A strange story of jealousy and death. Of course, you know the great family of Kruger, who ruled New York society for generations. When Mrs. Peter John Kruger III died, her mantle descended as a matter of course to Mrs. Peter John Kruger IV or this beautiful and charming young woman. Mimi by name, inherited not only her mother in law's scepter, but also Teresa de Guillonne. Teresa de Guillonne was the first and certainly the greatest of social secretaries. The story begins one summer morning at Caris woods, the enormous and rather monstrous Kruger estate in Upper Westchester. Mimi and Teresa de Guillon were together in the breakfast room.

[Mimi Kruger]

Oh, Therese, must we go to that dull dinner at the Bransoms tonight? I think I'll call it off. Mimi, you simply can't do that. The dinner's being given for you. I was most insistent that I be consulted about the other guests. After all, my dear, you have certain responsibilities. Your mother in law, Mrs. Kruger III. Yes, I know. She was a paragon of the social virtues. She didn't mind being bored to death. Oh, Mimi, you are so lax. What would you do without me? You worry too much, Teresa. You're living in the past. Your little assistant, Louise Mayfield, could possibly take over.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Very well.

[Mimi Kruger]

Louise. Louise Mayfield. That's quite that child. My Dear Theresa, she's 21 and very competent. After all, you trained her. Yes, and I am very fond of Louise. She's like a daughter to me. But take my place. Why? Surely you're joking, my dear. Oh, yes.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yes, of course.

[Mimi Kruger]

You know, Mimi, I'm a bit worried about Louise. She's been acting very odd lately. This party she's going to tonight, I have no idea where it is or who her hostess is to be. Well, wherever it is, she'll have a better time than I will. You know, Teresa, I shouldn't be surprised if Louise has been acting strangely because she's trying to keep away from my handsome cousin, Jack Rowcliffe. She doesn't seem very grateful to you, Theresa, for arranging to marry him off to Vera McPeak. Jack Raif and Vera McP are a splendid match. He has family position. Vera is young. She can be molded. She can be tolerant. Oh, certainly, yes. And her father has 100 millions. But I don't blame Jack for straying from the fold. Louise is very lovely. And I find Vera a very trying guest. In fact, I find it all very trying, Mr. Guillon. Oh, there's Louise. Louise, we're in the breakfast room. Come in here, my dear.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Good morning, Mrs. Kruger. Mrs. Grian. Did you want me this morning?

[Mimi Kruger]

No, Louise, I did. Teresa insists we go to this dinner tonight. Jack and Vera are going with us. We'll be leaving around 7. Tell Jack, won't you?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Must I?

[Mimi Kruger]

Mrs. Kruger, Mrs. Kruger has asked you to deliver a message. Do so, my dear.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Jack, I came only to tell you about the dinner.

[Mimi Kruger]

Louise, please.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Must we go through all this again? Why don't you leave me alone?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Because I'm mad about you, Louise. Can't you understand? I'm in love with you. I want you to marry me.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You marry and support a Wife? Don't be silly, Jack.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Does sound silly, doesn't it? But I'm changed, I tell you. You've changed me. Louise, I love you. There's nothing I wouldn't do for you.

[Madame Rosika Story]

And what about Vera mcpeat? No, Jack. I'm afraid you've been bought, paid for and delivered. Vera won't let you go so easily.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I'll tell her tonight that I'm through. Louise. I'll meet her at the dinner and tell her. And then I'll come back here to you.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Come back if you like, Jack.

[Mimi Kruger]

Good.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I'll be back in a box.

[Madame Rosika Story]

But I won't be here.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Where are you going, Louise? Why don't you tell me? It's another man. I know it's another man. Who is it? Who is it?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Nonsense has gone far enough. What I do is my own business. Do you understand that, Jack?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

No, it's my business. You're mine, Louise. Do you hear? You're mine. I'll have you or no one else will.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Jack, let go. My wrist. Louise, tell me you're hurting me.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Please, Louise, I want to know.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Let me go.

[Vera McPeek]

Well, Jack, you're making passes at the servants, I see.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Perhaps it's just as well you saw. Might as well have this out now.

[Mimi Kruger]

Shut up.

[Vera McPeek]

I can handle this. It's pretty easy to see what Ms. Mayfield's little game is. She thinks she'll marry into the great Kruger clan. Well, let me tell you, Ms. Mayfield, Jack hasn't got a cent to his name and never will have.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Vera. Please.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I understand perfectly, Ms. McBean. I assure you I have no ambitions in Mr. Rochester.

[Vera McPeek]

Quite the lady, aren't you, Ms. Mayfield? Well, what's your step? Sure, I know what you all think of me. Vulgar, common. But let me tell you, we common Clay McPeeks from Pittsburgh know how to get what we want. And we know how to keep it. Think that over, Ms. Mayfield. Think that over.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yes, Come in.

[Mimi Kruger]

Madame Kuga has sent me to help you dress for your engagement.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Come in. Look. How thoughtful of Mrs. Krueger to send you. Susan. Have they gone?

[Mimi Kruger]

We the car. She left long ago. Don't you see we're not happy? Monsieur Jacques, he say nothing. And Mademoiselle, his fiance, the ugly one, she. Oh, you see, she's very angry. Even Madame, she wants not to go.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Well, let's not think of them. Suzanne. I'm happy. And I'm going to have a wonderful time, Mademoiselle.

[Mimi Kruger]

Very lovely. It is a thrift you go to, mister. It is for your young man that.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Your eyes shine so. Maybe you're too smart, Suzanne. How do I look?

[Mimi Kruger]

Oh, rubbish, Aunt Fatou. He will eat you up.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You are so lovely, Suzanne. You are a darling. Yes, yes.

[Mimi Kruger]

Thank you. It is a letter for you, mademoiselle.

[Madame Rosika Story]

For me? It's a thick one, isn't it? Oh, how lovely. What an exquisite handkerchief. Who could have sent it to me?

[Mimi Kruger]

M. Kruger must have sent it. It is one of these six she brought in Paris. It is perfect, mademoiselle.

[Madame Rosika Story]

For your castile, Mrs. Oh, it's lovely. What a darling. Mrs. Kruger, she is most generous.

[Mimi Kruger]

Shall I put sussent the perfume a little?

[Madame Rosika Story]

No, thank you. I'll do it myself. Suzanne. Oh, just put that bottle of gardenia perfume on my dressing table, please. Now you can go, Suzanne. I won't need you anymore.

[Mimi Kruger]

Nurse Seaman's Inner.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Good night, Suzanne. Thank you. No. It's so lovely. One more time. Suzanne. Suzanne.

[Mimi Kruger]

Help. Suzanne.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I'm John.

[Mimi Kruger]

In all my years of experience, Mimi, I have never had to cope with anything so so sordid. Teresa, how. How can you think of appearances with Louise? That beautiful child lying in there dead. But I must think of them. After all, Dr. Plummer refuses to sign a death certificate.

[Vera McPeek]

That old fossil with his hints of foul play.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Maybe he's right, Vera.

[Vera McPeek]

What do you mean, Jack? What do you know of Louise Mayfield's death?

[Narrator]

Well, I.

[Mimi Kruger]

Stop wrangling, you two. Dr. Plummer was kind enough to give us 36 hours. He's risking a brick deal going as far as that. Oh, why doesn't Madam Story get here? Are you sure you acted wisely in calling her in, Mimi? Well, it was either she or the police. You said she had a reputation for discretion. Come in.

[Mr. Gargan]

Yes, Madame. Rosita Story and Ms. Bella Brisley.

[Mimi Kruger]

Thank heaven you're here, Madam Story. This is a terrible situation. Terrible. Oh, but let me introduce you. I am Theresa de Guillon. This is Mrs. Peter. John Kruger II. How do you do, Ms. McPeek?

[Vera McPeek]

Hello.

[Mimi Kruger]

Mr. Rowplith.

[Madame Rosika Story]

How do you do? How do you do?

[Mimi Kruger]

It was good of you to come so quickly, Madam Story. This unfortunate accident is likely to create a thrusting scandal for Mrs. Kruger.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Accident, Mr. Guillaume? From what you told me over the phone, I gathered Louise Mayfield had been murdered.

[Mimi Kruger]

Nonsense. We don't know that, Madam Storey. Nobody does. We only know Louise is dead. Poor child. We found her when we returned last night from our dinner party. It is nonsense, Theresa, and you know it. Madame Story is perfectly right. It would be very foolish to ask her help and not give her all the facts.

[Vera McPeek]

What facts, Mimi? Just because that old fossil of a Dr. Plummer won't give a death certificate. Yes, me. It's a nice little scheme to get you to hire this story woman and with whatever she can manage to get.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Out of you, Sarah. That's an Interesting idea, Ms. McPeath, though I must confess that so simple and clever a scheme would never have occurred to me. But surely Dr. Plummer offered some other reason for refusing a death certificate.

[Mimi Kruger]

Yes. He says, oh, it's impossible. But he says Louise was asphyxiating. No, fool.

[Vera McPeek]

There isn't a gas outlet in the house.

[Madame Rosika Story]

How helpful of you to know that, Ms. McPeak. You won't mind, will you, if I check for myself?

[Vera McPeek]

I don't mind what you do.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

What use of all this? We've nothing to tell. All of us were at a dinner party 20 miles from here together. When we got home after 11, we found Louise. That is Ms. Mayfield, dead.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I see. Mr. Guillon, when you phoned me, you said something about some missing object.

[Mimi Kruger]

Suzanne, the maid insists a lace handkerchief came in the mail for Louise as she was threatened to leave when we found her. The handkerchief has disappeared.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Very interesting. Suppose I start then by questioning this mage, Suzanne. Maybe she can tell me more about this missing handkerchief. Good morning, Bella.

[Mimi Kruger]

Good morning, madam. Story.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Typing last night's notes, I see. Yes. Say, you look worried.

[Mimi Kruger]

What is it?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Oh. How can one look out at that peaceful garden and realize that in this house there's someone carrying the mark of Cain on their soul?

[Mimi Kruger]

And you believe Louise Mayfield's death was not a natural one? That she was murdered?

[Madame Rosika Story]

No doubt of it, fella. That girl was asphyxiated.

[Mimi Kruger]

Oh, how horrible. So young and so full of life.

[Madame Rosika Story]

And it's our job to find out who killed her. Have you finished typing those notes you took at our intemnable interviews last night?

[Mimi Kruger]

Not quite. I'm almost finished.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Then I think I'll step out in the terrace. Maybe the fresh air will help me think.

[Mimi Kruger]

Something is bothering you.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yes. Bella, what happened to that lace handkerchief Louise Mayfield received in the mail? I'm sure that was a thing that came. I must find it. You call me when you're through with those notes.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Ah, Madam Story. You come out and shame the flowers and dim the sunlight.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You always make such pretty speeches, even so early in the morning. Mr. Rowcliffe.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Ah, beautiful lady. You remember my name?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yours would be a difficult name to forget, Mr. Rowcliffe. Thanks to the Rotor review and the Picture Magazine.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Oh, that. You know, I had no hope of ever Meeting you, I can't aspire to your circle. Much too clever.

[Madame Rosika Story]

It all depends. I should say that you were quite clever enough for your own purposes, Mr. Rowcliffe.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I'm just a lightweight.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I wonder. I see you're standing out under her window. That is Miss Mayfield's room up there, isn't it?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Yes, but that was her room.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Ivy clad walls. Old English ivy. Sturdy and strong, too. I wonder why the vines are so torn and broken.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Oh, are they? I hadn't noticed.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You loved Louise Mayfield very much, didn't you?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Yes. I loved her more than anything in life.

[Madame Rosika Story]

And she.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Why should she care for me? What am I? Nothing but a wastrel? She was in love with someone else. I know it. I could tell. But if I'd known who it was, I.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Why didn't you tell me, Mr. Rowcliffe? You'd left your dinner party and came back here last night.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

How did you know that?

[Madame Rosika Story]

I did. I didn't. You just told me. Thank you.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

You see, I. I told you. You're too clever for me.

[Madame Rosika Story]

What time was it when you got here?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I don't know. It was about 9:30, I think.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I see you came around back here in the garden. You saw a light in her window, called her, got no answer. And you climbed that ivy up to her window, didn't you?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Well, who saw me?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Nobody, as far as I know. That broken ivy tells its own story, but not all of it. Tell me, what did you do when you got up there?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I suppose you're thinking that I killed her. I wouldn't blame you if you did. I don't care much if you do. I've got nothing left.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Please.

[Mimi Kruger]

Please, Mr. Oakley.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I'm sorry. Well, I. I went in upon her. Lying there on the floor, dead like the coward I am. I got scared. How could I explain my being there? So I climbed down again the way I went up and drove back to Quaker Ridge. I suppose you don't believe me.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Suppose I say I reserve judgment. Now, will you give me the handkerchief that you took from Louise Mayfield's hand?

[Jack Rowcliffe]

How did you know that?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Stop this. I suppose that you took it as a remembrance of her.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Yes, I did. It was the last thing she had touched.

[Mimi Kruger]

Here it is, madam. Story.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Madam.

[Mimi Kruger]

Story. Could you come into the office a moment?

[Madame Rosika Story]

We'll continue this talk later. Mr. Rowcliffe, will you excuse me? Excuse me now, please. Oh, this letter was pushed under the door. Did you open it, Bella? No.

[Mimi Kruger]

I saw it was addressed to Louise Mayfield, so I called you.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I see. Postmark Briarcliffe There's a notation on the envelope in pencil. Not a very literate correspondent. Bella, if you want to buy any more info about this letter, we can make a deal. I'll drop around at 11. Well, we have long to wait. Now, let's read the letter. Darling, I can hardly wait till Tuesday night when I'll see you again. I'm moving heaven and earth to arrange things so we'll be together for always. All my love, dear. It's signed J. J?

[Mimi Kruger]

That must be Jack Rowcliffe.

[Madame Rosika Story]

In the light of what we know of their relationship. Does it sound like Jack Rowcliffe?

[Mimi Kruger]

No, that's stupid of me. But the initial.

[Madame Rosika Story]

It could be the J stands for John. Peter.

[Mimi Kruger]

Peter.

[Madame Rosika Story]

John Kruger. This must be our mysterious correspondent now. Come in.

[Mr. Gargan]

Well, ladies. There I am. Johnny on the spot. Like I says, know we do business.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You're the Kruger chauffeur, aren't you, mister?

[Mr. Gargan]

Gargan's the name. Chauffeur and bodyguard.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I'm sure you're efficient in both departments, Mr. Gargantuan. But why the bodyguard?

[Mr. Gargan]

Well, it's like this. The Krugers are important people, see? They're likely to be bothered by cranks and other undesirable citizens. Hit it. They need protection, and I'm the guy that can protect them.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yes, I can see that, Gargan. But now, about this letter.

[Mr. Gargan]

Yeah, that's right. Well, do I sing or don't I?

[Madame Rosika Story]

That depends on your song, Gargan. First, tell me, how did you manage to get hold of this letter?

[Mr. Gargan]

Well, it's like this. I always get the mail, see? And I always deliver it. But yesterday, Mrs. Kruger and the old dame are with me. I go in and get the mail, and I look through it to see if there's something for me. And I see this letter. When I come out to the car, Mrs. Krueger says, Give me the mail. I hands it to her, and when I get it back. This letter ain't with the others. Well, I don't think much about it till last night when this Mayfield name is dumped off. I begin to smell a Rhett. And this morning I did a little mooching around. And here it is.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Very graphic, Gargan.

[Mr. Gargan]

How's that?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Oh, skip it. Now, what further information have you to give us, Gargan?

[Mr. Gargan]

I can tell you who sent that letter to the Mayfield dame.

[Madame Rosika Story]

So, how much? Half a G. $500. That's an expensive song, Gargan.

[Mr. Gargan]

Ah, nuts. You can put on the expense account.

[Madame Rosika Story]

You're right. Nuts it is. The $500 is yours.

[Mr. Gargan]

Thanks.

[Madame Rosika Story]

There you are, now, who sent this letter to Louise Mayfield?

[Mr. Gargan]

Well, it was the one.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Go, Madam Story.

[Mimi Kruger]

Is he dead?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yes. The shot came through that window. Why? To keep him from telling us who sent that letter to Louise. Help me put him in that closet over there.

[Mimi Kruger]

Physique.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I won't let you.

[Mimi Kruger]

You can't. You've got to report it.

[Madame Rosika Story]

If I report it now, the police would interfere with all my plans. I need 24 hours.

[Mimi Kruger]

You're risking your reputation.

[Madame Rosika Story]

We've taken risks before.

[Mimi Kruger]

This is concealing a murder. Why do you need 24 hours to.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Learn the secret of this, Bella?

[Mimi Kruger]

Why? Well, that's one of Mrs. Krueger's handkerchief.

[Madame Rosika Story]

No, Bella, it's the handkerchief. The one Roof found on Louise Mayfield body. I'm staking my reputation on this little scrap of lace.

[Mimi Kruger]

Madam Story Potter is back.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Oh, that's good. Bella, did he bring back the handkerchief and the laboratory report?

[Mimi Kruger]

Yes.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Here they are. Just as I thought. Oh, what a horrible use for such a lovely thing. This handkerchief was a murder weapon, Bella. But how could it have been because I'm murdering you that Louise Mayfield used gardenia toilet water.

[Mimi Kruger]

But can we find out who sent it?

[Madame Rosika Story]

I rather think we can. Bella, get those four lace handkerchiefs that Suzanne got for me for Mrs. Kruger.

[Mimi Kruger]

What are you going to do now?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Now, my dear Bella, I'm going out to present a noose to a murderer. Mr. Rowcliffe, I wanted to return this handkerchief to you for safekeeping. I'll want it back tomorrow morning. I don't know how at present, but I feel this handkerchief will be the means of proving who killed Louise Mayfield. So guard it carefully.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Well, I'll do that. You can depend on me, Madam story.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Thank you, Mr. Oakley. Ms. McPeek, the greatest proof that I'm not against is that I'm going to ask you to keep this handkerchief for me. The most important piece of evidence I have. I have no assurance the murderer would not kill me to get it back. But it would never be supposed that I'd given it to you. To God. Will you keep it for me until tomorrow morning?

[Vera McPeek]

No, don't worry.

[Madame Rosika Story]

I'll keep it safe. Thank you, Ms. McP. Mrs. Kruger, it's the handkerchief. It's the one that was sent to Louise Mayfield.

[Mimi Kruger]

Where'd you get it?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Can't tell you that now. But I'm afraid it was the cause of her death.

[Mimi Kruger]

Oh, how horrible.

[Madame Rosika Story]

What I'm going to ask you to do is to hold it for me just until tomorrow morning. But, Mr. Guillon, you can help.

[Mimi Kruger]

What is the real situation, Madam Story?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Oh, I wish I knew. I suspect that I have no proof. I can go no further without the assistance from the chemist.

[Mimi Kruger]

Whom do you suspect?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Oh, you know.

[Mimi Kruger]

I'm afraid I do.

[Madame Rosika Story]

What I want you to do is to keep this for me until tomorrow morning. Mrs. Krueger, I've asked you, Mr. Guillon, Ms. McPeek and Mr. Rowcliffe to meet me here this morning in order that we may determine who murdered Louise Mayfield. What do you mean?

[Mimi Kruger]

You know, Madam Story. You. You know who killed her?

[Madame Rosika Story]

I believe I do, Mrs. Krueger. But I hope to prove it. I know that lace handkerchief was sent to her through the mail. Was the murder weapon. Perhaps that can tell us something. May I have the handkerchief, please?

[Mimi Kruger]

Why, certainly.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

Oh, here you are.

[Mimi Kruger]

I. I thought. I don't understand.

[Jack Rowcliffe]

I say, what is this?

[Vera McPeek]

No. A trick.

[Madame Rosika Story]

That's right, Ms. McP, a trick. But one only a guilty person need fear.

[Mimi Kruger]

But really, Madam Story, I don't understand. Yes, Madam Story.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Please take the handkerchiefs one at a time. Mark each in pencil with the initials of the person from whom we receive it.

[Mimi Kruger]

May I have the handkerchiefs? One at a time? All right.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Now, Bella, spread them out on your desk with the initials turned face down. As you probably surmised, none of you had the original handkerchief. That has never left my possession. Here it is.

[Mimi Kruger]

But I don't understand.

[Madame Rosika Story]

This handkerchief in my hand is impregnated with a deadly poison. When moistened with alcohol, it releases a lethal gas which is instantly fatal. May I remind you that perfume is 90% alcohol. And a young girl about to go out on a romantic tryst would inevitably moisten it with perfume.

[Mimi Kruger]

How horrible.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Yes, Mr. Guillon, I agree with you.

[Vera McPeek]

But surely you don't suspect any of us.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Why not, Ms. McPeak? I found that a murderer is usually actuated by fear. Fear of what the victim might do to them. All of you face that fear as far as Louise Mayfield was concerned. But one of you feared so deeply that you dared risk murder to protect what you had. You feared loss of position, prestige, supplanting by a younger, more attractive girl. Loss of all that had made life worth living. That one person alone knew what the fatal handkerchief contained. I gave each one of you what you thought was that handkerchief. I was curious to see. See what disposition you would make of the evidence. Bella. Yes? Please examine those four handkerchiefs carefully. And when you've done that, tell me if any of them are changed since they left our hands last evening. Yes. This one has been washed.

[Mimi Kruger]

Washed?

[Madame Rosika Story]

Well, I don't want to read the initials on it. T, D, E, G. Theresa.

[Mimi Kruger]

Teresa.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Keep away from me.

[Mimi Kruger]

Keep away from me, I say. Keep away from me. I'll shoot. Why, Cat. She shot herself. It's all my fault. Poor Teresa. Poor thing. She. She was all she. She couldn't have that. Couldn't stand it.

[Madame Rosika Story]

No, Mrs. Krueger, it wasn't your fault. It was better so. The end of a passing world exit an era.

[Narrator]

You have been listening to Murder Clinic. Murder Clinic, the wor mutual series which brings you each week one exciting case. One member from the select band of the world's great detective. Next week, Murder Clinic will bring you Sir Henry Merrivale, known to his host of admirers as HM In Death in the Dressing Room, this famous detective finds a brilliantly clever pickpocket and discovers an even more clever murderer.

[Madame Rosika Story]

Foreign.

[Narrator]

Tonight's detective was Madame Rosika's Story, played by Elizabeth Morgan. Original music was composed by Ralph Barnhart and conducted by Bob Stanley. This program was an international exchange feature over the coast to coast network of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Tales told on Murder Clinic are adaptations by authors Lee Wright and John A. Bassett. Murder Clinic is produced under the direction of Elvin Flanagan. Frank Knight speaking. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, one thing I found when reading up on Madame's story was that many critics say that her stories suffer from a sort of melodramatic style. And we kind of got that here. And the beginning parts had some similarities to some other programs that have fallen out of style with many critics, including Mr. Keen Tracer of Lost Persons and the stories of the Hummers, their various mystery franchises. Overall, I thought it was a good mystery. And that one part where, you know, I didn't even get out the calculator to figure out what $526 in 1926 would be in today's money. But that scene with her being willing to give it and just charge it on the expense account shows that fictional private detectives, regardless of their gender or background, are pretty loose with the expense account. Story was Madam. Story was definitely somewhat unique character for the era. There were some other female detectives such as Marple, and then there was Lady Molly of Scotland Yard who was created by Baroness Orcsey, best known for the Scarlet Pimpernel. But unlike Lady Molly, whose only reason for being a crime solver is to save her fiance from a false charge, Story was a true crime solving professional. So a very unique character and I hope you enjoyed it and I hope you'll enjoy our next installments of Murder Clinic, which we'll be doing as we get into the Poirot radio series later on this year. In the meanwhile, send your comments to Box [e-mail] give us a call 208-991-4783 and become one of our friends on Facebook, facebook.com Radiodetectives but from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.