WEBVTT 00:00.000 --> 00:09.160 And now, Roma Wines, R-O-M-A, made in California for enjoyment throughout the world, Roma Wines 00:09.160 --> 00:12.160 presents Suspense. 00:12.160 --> 00:21.600 Tonight, Roma Wines bring you Miss Rita Hayworth as star of Three Times Murder, a suspense play 00:21.600 --> 00:27.160 produced, edited, and directed for Roma Wines by William Spear. 00:27.160 --> 00:36.920 Suspense, radio's outstanding theater of thrills is presented for your enjoyment by Roma Wines. 00:36.920 --> 00:43.640 That's R-O-M-A, Roma Wines, those excellent California wines that can add so much pleasantness 00:43.640 --> 00:48.840 to the way you live, to your happiness in entertaining guests, to your enjoyment of 00:48.840 --> 00:50.360 everyday meals. 00:50.360 --> 00:56.560 Yes, right now, a glass full would be very pleasant as Roma Wines bring you Rita Hayworth 00:56.560 --> 01:02.560 as Laura, with Hans Conrad as Elmer in a remarkable tale of Suspense. 01:02.560 --> 01:09.560 One of the most thrilling world series in recent baseball history. 01:09.560 --> 01:14.560 And now, the exclusive that I promised you earlier in the program, a report so sensational 01:14.560 --> 01:17.560 that I'm going to devote all of my remaining time to it. 01:17.560 --> 01:22.560 I have before me a copy of a document delivered in person today to the district attorney's 01:22.560 --> 01:25.560 office by one, Redonia Bell. 01:25.560 --> 01:30.560 Redonia Bell was the trusted personal maid of Laura Starling Morton, whom you will remember 01:30.560 --> 01:35.560 from the widely publicized murder trial of just four months ago. 01:35.560 --> 01:41.560 This document is a statement written by Laura Starling Morton in her own hand, and it begins 01:41.560 --> 01:47.560 as follows, quote, I only regret that it will be impossible for me to be present when this 01:47.560 --> 01:48.560 is read aloud. 01:48.560 --> 01:52.560 What I shall relate here concerns three men. 01:52.560 --> 01:57.560 Of these three men, it is not on behalf of my husband Robert that I write, nor on behalf 01:57.560 --> 01:59.560 of my husband Charles. 01:59.560 --> 02:05.560 This is for Elmer, but I don't think that Elmer will ever see it, for Elmer too is going 02:05.560 --> 02:06.560 to die. 02:11.560 --> 02:12.560 Laura? 02:13.560 --> 02:14.560 Laura? 02:14.560 --> 02:15.560 Yes, Robert? 02:15.560 --> 02:16.560 Laura, where's my electric razor? 02:16.560 --> 02:18.560 In the medicine cabinet where it always is. 02:18.560 --> 02:20.560 Oh, for the love of God. 02:20.560 --> 02:23.560 Oh, Robert, I wish you wouldn't shave while you're in the bathtub that way. 02:23.560 --> 02:25.560 What's the difference, darling, where I shave? 02:25.560 --> 02:27.560 I like to shave in the bathtub. 02:27.560 --> 02:30.560 Well, I just don't like to see you meddling with electricity while you're in there. 02:30.560 --> 02:31.560 You might get a shock or something. 02:31.560 --> 02:34.560 Yes, sure, sure, Mrs. Thomas Edison. 02:34.560 --> 02:36.560 All right, so go ahead. 02:36.560 --> 02:37.560 I don't care. 02:37.560 --> 02:40.560 Listen, darling, listen, I like to shave in the bathtub. 02:40.560 --> 02:42.560 I'm relaxed in the bathtub. 02:42.560 --> 02:43.560 I read in the bathtub. 02:43.560 --> 02:45.560 I think in the bathtub. 02:45.560 --> 02:48.560 And I'm not going to change my habits even for you. 02:48.560 --> 02:49.560 I know, dear. 02:49.560 --> 02:52.560 I suppose that is a lot to expect. 02:54.560 --> 02:56.560 Oh, boy. 03:02.560 --> 03:03.560 Robert. 03:04.560 --> 03:05.560 Robert! 03:14.560 --> 03:17.560 It was a good, loud scream. 03:17.560 --> 03:20.560 Then I stood in the door of the bathroom and looked. 03:20.560 --> 03:22.560 A good, long look. 03:22.560 --> 03:24.560 Then I called a doctor. 03:24.560 --> 03:26.560 The doctor called the police. 03:26.560 --> 03:28.560 The police called the district attorney. 03:28.560 --> 03:32.560 And I found myself confronted by a young man with red hair and glasses 03:32.560 --> 03:38.560 who gave the immediate impression of being clever, unscrupulous, and objectionable. 03:38.560 --> 03:40.560 That was Elmer. 03:40.560 --> 03:44.560 Mrs. Williams, I'm Elmer Garner of the district attorney's office. 03:44.560 --> 03:46.560 How do you do, Mr. Garner? 03:46.560 --> 03:49.560 I thought that you and I had better have a little private chat. 03:49.560 --> 03:50.560 What about, Mr. Garner? 03:50.560 --> 03:52.560 About your husband. 03:52.560 --> 03:54.560 What about my husband? 03:54.560 --> 03:57.560 Mrs. Williams, I'm going to be very frank with you on a number of counts. 03:57.560 --> 03:59.560 I'm what's known as an assistant district attorney. 03:59.560 --> 04:02.560 Mr. Garner, I have just lost my husband. 04:02.560 --> 04:03.560 I hardly think... 04:03.560 --> 04:04.560 I'm coming, then, Mrs. Williams. 04:04.560 --> 04:08.560 The district attorney has put me on this case because he thinks he can't do it. 04:08.560 --> 04:10.560 He thinks he doesn't have a case. 04:10.560 --> 04:12.560 Routine investigation. 04:12.560 --> 04:17.560 Now, maybe that's because the D.A. is essentially a nice man with nice instinct. 04:17.560 --> 04:19.560 And I'm not, but I don't agree with it. 04:19.560 --> 04:20.560 About what? 04:20.560 --> 04:23.560 About not having a case. 04:23.560 --> 04:25.560 Because I can smell him, Mrs. Williams. 04:25.560 --> 04:28.560 I can smell him a mile away. 04:28.560 --> 04:31.560 What can you smell, Mr. Garner? 04:31.560 --> 04:33.560 Murder. 04:33.560 --> 04:36.560 Oh, I see. 04:36.560 --> 04:38.560 Good. Your attitude's very good. 04:38.560 --> 04:40.560 No phony hysteria, no fake indignation. 04:40.560 --> 04:42.560 Realistic. I like that. I'm that way myself. 04:42.560 --> 04:47.560 Mr. Garner, I'm trying my best to maintain my composure under trying circumstances. 04:47.560 --> 04:51.560 And I must say, your extraordinary insinuation does not make it any easier. 04:51.560 --> 04:54.560 Now, look, I know you killed him. You know that I know you killed him. 04:54.560 --> 04:55.560 Mr. Garner! 04:55.560 --> 04:58.560 I said I was going to be very frank with you, Mrs. Williams. I am. 04:58.560 --> 05:01.560 On your side of the story is the fact that although I know you killed him, 05:01.560 --> 05:03.560 it may be a little difficult to prove that you killed him. 05:03.560 --> 05:06.560 Not too difficult, but a little. 05:06.560 --> 05:09.560 I should think it might, since it's utterly untrue. 05:09.560 --> 05:12.560 Ah. Now, let's see what cards I hold. 05:12.560 --> 05:15.560 You're a laboratory technician. You were before you married, anyway, right? 05:15.560 --> 05:16.560 Right. 05:16.560 --> 05:20.560 And your technical knowledge would have told you that a man using a faulty electrical appliance 05:20.560 --> 05:22.560 while sitting in a tub full of water 05:22.560 --> 05:25.560 stood an excellent chance of electrocuting himself. 05:25.560 --> 05:30.560 I also know that a man firing a bullet into his head would stand an excellent chance of killing himself. 05:30.560 --> 05:35.560 Well, the insulation on the cable of that electric razor was frayed. 05:35.560 --> 05:37.560 Now, that might have happened through normal wear. 05:37.560 --> 05:40.560 It also might have happened because it was tampered with by you. 05:40.560 --> 05:43.560 And then again, as you say, it might not. 05:43.560 --> 05:47.560 Would it surprise you to know that we've got your fingerprints all over that razor? 05:47.560 --> 05:49.560 It would surprise me more if you hadn't. 05:49.560 --> 05:52.560 Or on everything else in the house, for that matter, Mr. Garner. 05:52.560 --> 05:56.560 Uh-huh. You're a very intelligent woman, Mrs. Williams. 05:56.560 --> 05:58.560 You're right. It would have looked funny. 05:58.560 --> 06:01.560 You were smart not to wipe off those prigs. Very smart. 06:01.560 --> 06:02.560 Thank you. 06:02.560 --> 06:06.560 However, so much for the means, now for the motive. 06:06.560 --> 06:09.560 We can establish a cause that you and your husband didn't get along. 06:09.560 --> 06:13.560 Unfortunately, you could establish that about many husbands and wives. 06:13.560 --> 06:17.560 And that your husband was insured for $50,000 in your favor. 06:17.560 --> 06:21.560 And that there's about $50,000 more in community property and that you inherit, right? 06:21.560 --> 06:22.560 Naturally. 06:22.560 --> 06:26.560 Well, $100,000 is quite a nice little motive, Miss Williams. 06:26.560 --> 06:29.560 But it doesn't prove anything, does it, Mr. Garner? 06:29.560 --> 06:33.560 That depends on how it's used by the prosecuting attorney. That's me, you know. 06:33.560 --> 06:35.560 I know. 06:35.560 --> 06:37.560 Do you have a lawyer, Mrs. Williams? 06:37.560 --> 06:39.560 Not yet. 06:39.560 --> 06:40.560 Uh-huh. 06:40.560 --> 06:43.560 Uh-huh. You're a very intelligent woman, Mrs. Williams. 06:43.560 --> 06:47.560 That would have looked bad, too, if you'd had a lawyer right on tap. 06:47.560 --> 06:49.560 But you're going to need a lawyer, you know. 06:49.560 --> 06:50.560 So it would appear. 06:50.560 --> 06:54.560 All right. What about me? 06:54.560 --> 06:55.560 You. 06:55.560 --> 06:57.560 Sure, I'm a lawyer. 06:57.560 --> 07:00.560 You've just finished telling me that you would be the prosecuting attorney. 07:00.560 --> 07:03.560 Well, that's just the point. 07:03.560 --> 07:07.560 Why spend a lot of money on a lawyer who probably can't get you off anyway... 07:07.560 --> 07:10.560 when you can spend it on me and have a sure thing? 07:10.560 --> 07:11.560 See? 07:11.560 --> 07:14.560 Yes. I see. 07:14.560 --> 07:18.560 All I want is half. $50,000. 07:18.560 --> 07:19.560 No. 07:19.560 --> 07:21.560 What's the matter? Too much? 07:21.560 --> 07:22.560 No. 07:22.560 --> 07:25.560 Well, here, sister, you don't seem to realize that I'm in a position, 07:25.560 --> 07:28.560 depending on how I handle this case, either to set you free or to hang you. 07:28.560 --> 07:30.560 That, Mr. Garner, is where we disagree. 07:30.560 --> 07:32.560 You mean you're willing to gamble that I can't do it, huh? 07:32.560 --> 07:34.560 If you wish to put it that way. 07:34.560 --> 07:37.560 All right. But $50,000 is going to look cheap. 07:37.560 --> 07:41.560 Cheap when they slip that noose around your neck. 07:46.560 --> 07:49.560 And there she sits, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, 07:49.560 --> 07:52.560 cold, calm, emotionless, 07:52.560 --> 07:55.560 the same Laura Williams who carefully calculated, 07:55.560 --> 07:59.560 carefully planned and premeditated the murder of her husband. 07:59.560 --> 08:02.560 I ask the death penalty. 08:02.560 --> 08:03.560 I must ask it. 08:03.560 --> 08:05.560 For ponder well, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, 08:05.560 --> 08:08.560 if you set her free, if you set her free, believe me, 08:08.560 --> 08:14.560 this will not be the last accident to mark the bloody trail through life of Laura Williams. 08:14.560 --> 08:16.560 And when that accident occurs, 08:16.560 --> 08:21.560 when the next victim is struck down, his innocent blood will be on your hands. 08:28.560 --> 08:31.560 Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, have you reached a verdict? 08:31.560 --> 08:33.560 We have, your honor. 08:33.560 --> 08:35.560 What is your verdict? 08:35.560 --> 08:47.560 On the grounds of insufficient evidence, we find the defendant not guilty. 08:47.560 --> 08:52.560 Well, Mrs. Williams, I guess the sporting thing is to say congratulations. 08:52.560 --> 08:53.560 Congratulations. 08:53.560 --> 08:55.560 Thank you, Mr. Garner. 08:55.560 --> 08:57.560 I'll say one thing. You got what it takes. 08:57.560 --> 09:00.560 You know, the jury was evenly divided the whole first day. 09:00.560 --> 09:01.560 Do you know that? 09:01.560 --> 09:02.560 Yes, I knew it. 09:02.560 --> 09:05.560 I wasn't too far wrong at that, was I? 09:05.560 --> 09:07.560 Just far enough, Mr. Garner. 09:07.560 --> 09:12.560 Listen, again, just a sporting proposition. Tell me. 09:12.560 --> 09:13.560 Did you? 09:13.560 --> 09:15.560 Did I what? 09:15.560 --> 09:17.560 Oh, come on. We're alone here anyway. 09:17.560 --> 09:20.560 It doesn't matter because you can't be tried twice for the same thing. 09:20.560 --> 09:21.560 You know that, don't you? 09:21.560 --> 09:23.560 Yes, I know it. 09:23.560 --> 09:26.560 Well, did you? 09:26.560 --> 09:27.560 Yes! 09:27.560 --> 09:30.560 You cheap, contemptible blackmailer! 09:30.560 --> 09:32.560 Blackmailer? Yes, I killed him! 09:32.560 --> 09:34.560 How do you like that? I killed him! 09:45.560 --> 09:51.560 For Suspense, Roma Wines are bringing you Rita Hayworth with Hans Conrad in Three Times Murder, 09:51.560 --> 09:54.560 a radio play by John DeWitt and Robert L. Richards. 09:54.560 --> 10:00.560 Roma Wines presentation tonight in radio's outstanding theater of thrills, Suspense. 10:06.560 --> 10:12.560 Between the acts of Suspense, this is Ken Niles reminding you that football season's here again, 10:12.560 --> 10:16.560 and along with it, those pleasant Saturday evening get-togethers after the big game. 10:16.560 --> 10:19.560 So here's a tip when you play host. 10:19.560 --> 10:21.560 A sure way to delight your guests. 10:21.560 --> 10:24.560 Serve Grand Estate Wines. 10:24.560 --> 10:28.560 For Grand Estate Wines presented by Roma, America's greatest vintner, 10:28.560 --> 10:31.560 give you the ultimate in wine excellence. 10:31.560 --> 10:36.560 Yes, the brilliant clarity, full fragrance, and mellow taste of Grand Estate Wines 10:36.560 --> 10:39.560 please the most discriminating guests. 10:39.560 --> 10:44.560 To assure the outstanding quality of these limited bottlings of Grand Estate Wines, 10:44.560 --> 10:47.560 Roma selects only the choicest grace. 10:47.560 --> 10:55.560 Then at Roma's famed wineries, necessary time, and the patient, priceless skill of Roma master vintners, 10:55.560 --> 11:02.560 guide each precious bottle of Grand Estate Wines to rich, mellow taste luxury. 11:02.560 --> 11:10.560 Yes, the host who possesses all five Grand Estate California wines is sure to please all tastes at all times. 11:10.560 --> 11:16.560 For pleasant entertaining, serve Grand Estate Medium Sherry, Ruby Port, or Golden Musketel. 11:16.560 --> 11:21.560 For gracious dining, enjoy Grand Estate Burgundy or Sauternes. 11:21.560 --> 11:27.560 Remember the name, Grand Estate Wines, crowning achievement of vintner skill. 11:27.560 --> 11:32.560 Presented by Roma, the greatest name in wine. 11:32.560 --> 11:37.560 And now, Roma Wines bring back to our Hollywood sound stage Rita Hayworth, 11:37.560 --> 11:42.560 who as Laura Starling Morton continues the reading of a document in Three Times Murder, 11:42.560 --> 11:47.560 a tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. 11:58.560 --> 12:02.560 Perhaps I gambled too recklessly with Elmer. 12:02.560 --> 12:04.560 I have since had caused wonder. 12:04.560 --> 12:08.560 But there were things that I could not foresee as well as Elmer. 12:08.560 --> 12:12.560 Suffice it to say that after my acquittal with a hundred thousand dollars from Marberts Estate, 12:12.560 --> 12:16.560 I moved into another city and took up my life again under another name. 12:16.560 --> 12:18.560 That there is Laura Starling. 12:18.560 --> 12:23.560 I met and married Charles Morton, a charming and eccentric man of twice my age, 12:23.560 --> 12:28.560 who was genius as a research chemist, accounted not only for those qualities which endeared him to me, 12:28.560 --> 12:32.560 but for a very considerable personal fortune as well. 12:32.560 --> 12:36.560 That my conscience bothered me not on the least, and I was quite happy, 12:36.560 --> 12:43.560 and that as the years went by, I had seen, I thought, the last of Elmer. 12:49.560 --> 12:51.560 Charles! Oh, Charles! 12:51.560 --> 12:52.560 Yes, yes, my dear? 12:52.560 --> 12:53.560 I have your coffee. 12:53.560 --> 12:54.560 Coffee? 12:54.560 --> 12:56.560 Well, you said you wanted coffee. It's ready now. 12:56.560 --> 12:58.560 But I have some coffee. 12:58.560 --> 13:02.560 Well, you took that out there three hours ago. Now come in and get your coffee. 13:02.560 --> 13:05.560 Yes, in a moment, my dear, as soon as I finish here. 13:05.560 --> 13:08.560 Charles, you come out of that smelly laboratory and have your coffee. 13:08.560 --> 13:10.560 Besides, I have a surprise for you. 13:10.560 --> 13:13.560 Oh, you have? Well, I'll be right in. 13:13.560 --> 13:15.560 And bring that other coffee cup with you. 13:15.560 --> 13:17.560 Yes, yes, yes. 13:18.560 --> 13:21.560 Now, what's all this about a surprise? 13:21.560 --> 13:22.560 Look. 13:22.560 --> 13:24.560 What? Oh, yes. 13:24.560 --> 13:26.560 Seemed to have left my glasses in the laboratory. 13:26.560 --> 13:28.560 Charles, you're simply priceless. 13:28.560 --> 13:29.560 Oh, it's a cake. 13:29.560 --> 13:33.560 It's a cake, yes. This is our anniversary, darling. Our fourth anniversary. 13:33.560 --> 13:36.560 Oh, it is? Oh, why so it is? 13:36.560 --> 13:38.560 Laura, this is so thoughtful of you. 13:38.560 --> 13:41.560 I'm afraid I'm hopeless, my dear. 13:41.560 --> 13:44.560 I know it's the husband who should be thoughtful, but I... 13:44.560 --> 13:47.560 You're just you, darling. Now sit down and relax, Bill Potter. 13:47.560 --> 13:49.560 Oh, yes. Oh, here's your cup. 13:49.560 --> 13:50.560 Thank you. 13:50.560 --> 13:53.560 Charles, what's in that cup? 13:53.560 --> 13:54.560 Coffee. 13:54.560 --> 14:00.560 Charles, I'm sure that even in the atomic age, coffee does not come in the form of white crystals. 14:00.560 --> 14:04.560 Oh, yes, yes, yes. I'd finished my coffee and I was doing some other things then. 14:04.560 --> 14:06.560 Charles, what is it? 14:06.560 --> 14:08.560 Thyrochlorite. You see, at the moment I'm testing... 14:08.560 --> 14:09.560 Charles! 14:09.560 --> 14:10.560 What? 14:10.560 --> 14:12.560 Why, that's deadly poison. 14:12.560 --> 14:15.560 So it is. You see, the thiocene radical follows its tendency to... 14:15.560 --> 14:21.560 Oh, Charles, I wish you wouldn't mix things up in the cups and dishes that way. It's dangerous. 14:21.560 --> 14:22.560 Dangerous? 14:22.560 --> 14:24.560 Suppose you got the cups mixed up. Suppose you'd... 14:24.560 --> 14:31.560 Oh, this could happen, Slaughter. Half the stuff we use in chemistry is dangerous if you go to drink it, but who's going to do that? 14:31.560 --> 14:37.560 It's like, well, like eating soap. You wash your hands with it every day, but who'd think of eating it? 14:40.560 --> 14:44.560 Well, now you take that cup right back out to the laboratory and empty it and wash it out. 14:44.560 --> 14:46.560 Well, all right. 14:47.560 --> 14:48.560 Charles! 14:48.560 --> 14:49.560 Yes? 14:49.560 --> 14:51.560 I was wondering, since it's our anniversary... 14:51.560 --> 14:52.560 Yes? 14:52.560 --> 14:54.560 Let's go out to dinner and celebrate. 14:54.560 --> 14:58.560 Why, yes. Yes, I think that's a splendid idea. 14:58.560 --> 15:00.560 Oh, my goodness. 15:00.560 --> 15:01.560 What? 15:01.560 --> 15:04.560 I completely forgot. My brother's coming to see us today. 15:04.560 --> 15:05.560 Your brother? 15:05.560 --> 15:06.560 Well, my half-brother. 15:06.560 --> 15:08.560 Charles, I didn't know you had a brother. 15:08.560 --> 15:13.560 Oh, didn't you? Well, you see, he's been in the army for almost five years. He just got back a short time ago. 15:13.560 --> 15:17.560 I forgot why yesterday, saying he's passing through town and would like to see me. So I thought naturally... 15:17.560 --> 15:19.560 Does he know you're married? 15:19.560 --> 15:22.560 Why, I suppose... Well, I suppose he doesn't. 15:22.560 --> 15:27.560 As a matter of fact, we've never been very close. Neither of us much letter writing, you know, so on. 15:27.560 --> 15:29.560 But he's the only relative I've got. 15:29.560 --> 15:32.560 At all, the sympathy I've wasted on you because I thought you were an offer to something. 15:32.560 --> 15:34.560 I was, practically. 15:34.560 --> 15:35.560 When's he coming? 15:35.560 --> 15:37.560 Why, this afternoon, sometime, I think. 15:37.560 --> 15:42.560 Well, I guess there's your answer. I am sorry, my dear. 15:42.560 --> 15:46.560 Why, Charles, that's all right. Maybe your brother would like to go out and celebrate with us. 15:46.560 --> 15:47.560 Well, I... 15:47.560 --> 15:49.560 Hello there. 15:49.560 --> 15:50.560 Hello, Charlie. 15:50.560 --> 15:52.560 Come in, come in. I want you to meet my wife. 15:52.560 --> 15:55.560 Laura, this is my brother, Elmer. 15:59.560 --> 16:04.560 There was no doubt that it was Elmer. There was no doubt but what he recognized me. 16:04.560 --> 16:08.560 And there was no doubt in my mind as to how he intended to play his hand this time either. 16:08.560 --> 16:13.560 For he gave no public sign of recognition, but simply looked straight at me. 16:13.560 --> 16:17.560 And smiled. And smiled. And smiled. 16:17.560 --> 16:21.560 So, you've gone into private practice, Elmer. Criminalized, I suppose. 16:21.560 --> 16:26.560 Mm-hmm. Well, there's no appreciation in this country of men who hold public office. Financially, at least. 16:26.560 --> 16:30.560 Ah, Elmer. You always did have your eye on the dollar, didn't you? 16:30.560 --> 16:33.560 Well, what about your racket, Charlie? What have you been up to? 16:33.560 --> 16:35.560 Oh, just puttering around here in my laboratory. 16:35.560 --> 16:36.560 You mean right here at home? 16:36.560 --> 16:40.560 Oh, of course. Oh, I guess that's new since you were here last. 16:40.560 --> 16:43.560 Well, there's a lot that's new since I was here last. 16:43.560 --> 16:45.560 Yeah, she's right in there. Right through those doors. 16:45.560 --> 16:50.560 Yeah. Isn't that sort of a nuisance for a wife, or isn't it? 16:50.560 --> 16:52.560 Not in the least. Why should it be? 16:52.560 --> 16:54.560 Oh, now, Laura, don't try to cover up my feelings. 16:54.560 --> 17:00.560 Just before you came, she was scolding me for carrying thioclorate around in the family coffee cups. 17:00.560 --> 17:03.560 Well, now, isn't that interesting? Isn't that a coincidence? 17:03.560 --> 17:04.560 Why? 17:04.560 --> 17:08.560 Well, I was just thinking what a fine setup for a murder. 17:08.560 --> 17:12.560 Somebody poisoned the chemist in his own laboratory. It looks just like an accident. 17:12.560 --> 17:13.560 You're right. 17:13.560 --> 17:16.560 You'll find that Elmer has a morbid mind, my dear. 17:16.560 --> 17:18.560 He used to try people for murder back in Illinois. 17:18.560 --> 17:20.560 I tried the beauties, too. 17:20.560 --> 17:24.560 Well, I've got to get along. Sorry I can't accept your invitation for the night. 17:24.560 --> 17:26.560 Well, but you are staying over for a few days, aren't you? 17:26.560 --> 17:29.560 Oh, yeah. Yeah, yeah. I'll see you again. 17:29.560 --> 17:30.560 Well, good. 17:30.560 --> 17:34.560 Oh, don't bother to come to the door with me, Charlie. I know you want to get back to work. 17:34.560 --> 17:35.560 Well, I'll try to... 17:35.560 --> 17:39.560 You'll have to trap Laura, will you? Give her a little chance to get acquainted. 17:39.560 --> 17:40.560 Why, yes, of course. 17:40.560 --> 17:42.560 Well, call us, Elmer. Don't forget. 17:42.560 --> 17:44.560 Oh, you can depend on it, Charlie. 17:47.560 --> 17:52.560 Well, well, well. Little Laura with you. 17:52.560 --> 17:53.560 What do you want? 17:53.560 --> 17:56.560 Oh, you think old Charlie would say, given you? 17:56.560 --> 17:58.560 I asked you a question. 17:58.560 --> 18:02.560 Well, I suppose he'd go on loving you in his own peculiar fashion. 18:02.560 --> 18:07.560 Never be quite the same, though, would it? There'd always be that little gnawing down, huh? 18:07.560 --> 18:11.560 I'm afraid things would be kind of under strain around here, Laura. 18:11.560 --> 18:13.560 You do have a price, I suppose. 18:13.560 --> 18:18.560 Am I? By the way, why are you so eager to pay it this time? 18:18.560 --> 18:25.560 I'm happy here. I'm at peace with myself and the world. I don't want anything to... to change. 18:25.560 --> 18:27.560 No other reason? 18:27.560 --> 18:29.560 What other reason would there be? 18:29.560 --> 18:34.560 I suppose all this property would go to you in the event of another little accident, huh? 18:34.560 --> 18:37.560 You don't really believe that. 18:37.560 --> 18:43.560 The motive and the means. Money and poison. 18:43.560 --> 18:45.560 How much, Elmer? 18:45.560 --> 18:48.560 Oh, no, no, no, no. You've got me wrong, Laura. I don't want money. 18:48.560 --> 18:50.560 When did that happen? 18:50.560 --> 18:55.560 Does it ever occur to you that I might simply be interested in my brother's welfare? 18:55.560 --> 19:01.560 No. All that has occurred to me so far is to wonder why I had to pick the one man in the world who is related to you. 19:01.560 --> 19:03.560 You want to hear my proposition? 19:03.560 --> 19:05.560 I'm waiting. 19:05.560 --> 19:12.560 The motive and the means. Well, there's always the means for an intelligent person such as you, Laura, but if we took away the motive... 19:12.560 --> 19:13.560 The motive? 19:13.560 --> 19:17.560 The money. The will. No motive, no temptation, you see? 19:17.560 --> 19:18.560 I see. 19:18.560 --> 19:31.560 And in a way, of course, that's for your own protection, too, because if Charlie ever so much as slipped on a banana peel and you inherited that money, there isn't a jury in the world that wouldn't convict you, Laura, simply on your past record. You realize that, don't you? 19:31.560 --> 19:32.560 Yes. 19:32.560 --> 19:36.560 So you see, no motive and no case easy, see? 19:36.560 --> 19:38.560 What do you want me to do? 19:38.560 --> 19:40.560 Get him to change his will. 19:40.560 --> 19:42.560 In favor of his only living relative, I presume? 19:42.560 --> 19:44.560 Uh-huh. That's me. 19:44.560 --> 19:45.560 And then? 19:45.560 --> 19:50.560 Well, that's all, and you're in the clear, because after that Charlie couldn't suspect you, even if I told him. 19:50.560 --> 19:58.560 He probably wouldn't believe it, throw me out of the house for persecuting his little bride, maybe even change his will right back again, you see? 19:58.560 --> 19:59.560 All right. 19:59.560 --> 20:01.560 You can do it, can't you? 20:01.560 --> 20:02.560 I suppose so. 20:02.560 --> 20:15.560 Oh, I know you can. I know you'd better. 20:15.560 --> 20:18.560 Laura, you seem such a strange request to me. 20:18.560 --> 20:20.560 Oh, darling, I don't want your money. I only want you. 20:20.560 --> 20:26.560 Well, I know, but after all, I'm considerably older than you are, my dear, and chances are that someday I'll... 20:26.560 --> 20:31.560 No, the whole idea of losing you and then profiting by it. It's just hateful. 20:31.560 --> 20:33.560 But who else would I leave it to? 20:33.560 --> 20:34.560 Leave it to your brother. 20:34.560 --> 20:35.560 Alma? 20:35.560 --> 20:36.560 Why not? It doesn't matter, but if... 20:36.560 --> 20:37.560 Well, I... 20:37.560 --> 20:39.560 Oh, please, darling, for me. 20:39.560 --> 20:46.560 All right, my dear, if it really makes a difference to you, now don't you worry about it anymore. I'll take care of it sometime. 20:46.560 --> 20:48.560 No, I want you to do it now, right away, today. 20:48.560 --> 20:50.560 Well, I'd have to get in touch with my lawyer. 20:50.560 --> 20:53.560 I'll call him for you. I'll get him on the phone right now. 20:53.560 --> 21:01.560 My goodness, Laura, you act as though it were a matter of life or death. 21:01.560 --> 21:08.560 Ambassador Hotel? 21:08.560 --> 21:10.560 Mr. Elmer Garner, please. 21:10.560 --> 21:13.560 Thank you. 21:13.560 --> 21:15.560 Yeah? 21:15.560 --> 21:16.560 This is Laura. 21:16.560 --> 21:17.560 Uh-huh? 21:17.560 --> 21:19.560 It's all right. It's all arranged. 21:19.560 --> 21:20.560 Is it? 21:20.560 --> 21:22.560 Yes, the lawyer's coming tomorrow. 21:22.560 --> 21:23.560 You sure? 21:23.560 --> 21:25.560 Well, I was standing by the phone while he talked to him. 21:25.560 --> 21:27.560 Did he tell the lawyer what changes he wanted made? 21:27.560 --> 21:29.560 Yes, he did. 21:29.560 --> 21:34.560 Not that I think you'd ever tell a lie, Laura, but how do I know this is all true? 21:34.560 --> 21:35.560 Hasn't he told you? 21:35.560 --> 21:37.560 No. 21:37.560 --> 21:39.560 Well, then perhaps you'd better drop by this evening. 21:39.560 --> 21:41.560 Well, that's more like it. 21:41.560 --> 21:43.560 I'll expect you after dinner. 21:43.560 --> 21:45.560 I'll be there. 21:45.560 --> 21:55.560 Elmer arrived this evening less than an hour ago. 21:55.560 --> 21:57.560 We were having coffee in the living room. 21:57.560 --> 22:00.560 Earlier, Charles had been showing him through the laboratory. 22:00.560 --> 22:04.560 It was not until after that that I had a moment to speak to him alone. 22:04.560 --> 22:07.560 Oh, wonderful fellow, old Charlie, so trusting. 22:07.560 --> 22:08.560 Did he tell you? 22:08.560 --> 22:09.560 About what? 22:09.560 --> 22:10.560 The will. 22:10.560 --> 22:15.560 Oh, that, yes, it seems that I am to be old Charlie's beloved heir. 22:15.560 --> 22:17.560 He still can't understand it. 22:17.560 --> 22:19.560 Are you satisfied then? 22:19.560 --> 22:23.560 My dear Laura, I was never more satisfied in all my life. 22:23.560 --> 22:25.560 Almost evens things up, doesn't it? 22:25.560 --> 22:27.560 Almost. 22:27.560 --> 22:29.560 You never forgot that, did you? 22:29.560 --> 22:31.560 That you lost. 22:31.560 --> 22:32.560 Lost? Who says I lost? 22:32.560 --> 22:34.560 The game isn't over till the whistle blows, sister. 22:34.560 --> 22:35.560 It is for you. 22:35.560 --> 22:37.560 Now get out of here. 22:37.560 --> 22:39.560 Okay. 22:39.560 --> 22:41.560 Okay, all in good time. 22:41.560 --> 22:44.560 Sorry I had to leave you, but those reactions have to be checked every hour. 22:44.560 --> 22:46.560 That's all right, Charlie. 22:46.560 --> 22:49.560 Laura and I were just going over old times in Illinois. 22:49.560 --> 22:52.560 You didn't know we both came from Illinois, did you? 22:52.560 --> 22:54.560 No, no I hadn't, at least. 22:54.560 --> 22:56.560 Oh, I'm sure. I told you, Charles, you must have forgot. 22:56.560 --> 22:58.560 Oh, yes, yes, well, all right. 22:58.560 --> 22:59.560 Coffee ready? 22:59.560 --> 23:01.560 Yes. Will you have coffee with us, Elmer? 23:01.560 --> 23:02.560 Oh, you bet I will. 23:02.560 --> 23:03.560 Anything in it? 23:03.560 --> 23:05.560 No, nothing in mine. 23:05.560 --> 23:08.560 Charles always takes his black pill. 23:08.560 --> 23:10.560 Laura does make the best coffee. 23:10.560 --> 23:14.560 Well, here's to Laura's coffee. 23:14.560 --> 23:17.560 There was something about his smile when he said it. 23:17.560 --> 23:19.560 That smile. 23:19.560 --> 23:24.560 And then all of a sudden I thought, I saw the whole terrible thing. 23:24.560 --> 23:28.560 Don't. Don't drink it. Charles! 23:28.560 --> 23:41.560 Well, well, well, old Charlie seems to have keeled over. 23:41.560 --> 23:42.560 Charles! 23:42.560 --> 23:47.560 Yeah, wouldn't be surprised if that was thioclorate poisoning. 23:47.560 --> 23:51.560 What a fool. What a fool. What a fool. 23:51.560 --> 23:53.560 Uh-huh. The motive and the means. 23:53.560 --> 23:55.560 And the motive is a real beaut this time, Laura, 23:55.560 --> 23:58.560 because you had to kill him before he changed his will. 23:58.560 --> 23:59.560 Me, eh? 23:59.560 --> 24:00.560 You killed him. 24:00.560 --> 24:02.560 Sure, but that's not what the jury's gonna think. 24:02.560 --> 24:05.560 And of course I'll get the money anyway. 24:05.560 --> 24:07.560 You couldn't very well collect it. 24:07.560 --> 24:09.560 Because they're going to hang you, Laura. 24:09.560 --> 24:11.560 They're going to hang you. 24:11.560 --> 24:15.560 Oh, no! 24:22.560 --> 24:25.560 Elmer is downstairs in the living room. 24:25.560 --> 24:27.560 I am in my study. 24:27.560 --> 24:30.560 And once more I am waiting for the police. 24:30.560 --> 24:32.560 There is no escape for me, of course. 24:32.560 --> 24:34.560 Elmer knows that. 24:34.560 --> 24:37.560 But there's one little thing that he has forgotten. 24:37.560 --> 24:40.560 The last play of the game. 24:40.560 --> 24:42.560 After I've just drawn up a will of my own, 24:42.560 --> 24:46.560 leaving my property and everything that I inherit from Charles 24:46.560 --> 24:50.560 to Elmer, it's dated three days ago. 24:50.560 --> 24:53.560 This statement I shall give unto the safekeeping of my personal maid, 24:53.560 --> 24:56.560 Fredonia Bell, who after all is said and done, 24:56.560 --> 25:00.560 has been the one true friend I've ever had. 25:00.560 --> 25:04.560 I shall give it to her with certain instructions for its eventual disposal, 25:04.560 --> 25:08.560 which I know she will follow to the letter. 25:08.560 --> 25:14.560 What I have done, I have beside me a glass of water. 25:14.560 --> 25:20.560 It contains thioclorate, the motive and the means. 25:20.560 --> 25:23.560 Because you see, when the police come, 25:23.560 --> 25:28.560 it is Elmer who will have to do the explaining, not I. 25:28.560 --> 25:42.560 And he will have to explain to bodies, Charles and mine. 25:42.560 --> 25:46.560 But the irony of the document, ladies and gentlemen, 25:46.560 --> 25:51.560 the terrible irony is that it was delivered to the district attorney's office 25:51.560 --> 25:56.560 by Fredonia Bell this evening at eight o'clock. 25:56.560 --> 25:59.560 And why did the good Fredonia wait until now? 25:59.560 --> 26:03.560 Because she was thus following explicitly the instructions of her mistress, 26:03.560 --> 26:06.560 Laura Starling Morton, whom she adored, 26:06.560 --> 26:11.560 and who specified that the envelope be handed to the police 26:11.560 --> 26:18.560 exactly 24 hours after the execution of Elmer Garner. 26:18.560 --> 26:33.560 Tonight. 26:33.560 --> 26:35.560 Suspense. 26:35.560 --> 26:39.560 Presented by Roma Wines, R-O-M-A. 26:39.560 --> 26:44.560 Made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. 26:44.560 --> 26:48.560 This is Ken Niles, and it's my exceedingly pleasant duty, Miss Hayworth, 26:48.560 --> 26:52.560 A, to compliment you in the name of some 20 million listeners 26:52.560 --> 26:54.560 who must have loved your performance just now, 26:54.560 --> 26:58.560 and B, to present to you this gift basket of Grandestate wines 26:58.560 --> 27:00.560 with the compliment of Roma. 27:00.560 --> 27:02.560 Well, thank you, Mr. Niles. 27:02.560 --> 27:03.560 Excuse me, I'm a little out of breath. 27:03.560 --> 27:07.560 I don't usually kill so many people, at least not in one day. 27:07.560 --> 27:09.560 How does it feel to play a murderer? 27:09.560 --> 27:10.560 I love it. 27:10.560 --> 27:13.560 I've been looking forward to appearing on Suspense for a very, very long time. 27:13.560 --> 27:16.560 And of course, Bill Steer, your world champion producer, director, 27:16.560 --> 27:18.560 is one of my oldest and dearest friends. 27:18.560 --> 27:20.560 Well, from the way Bill is waving congratulations 27:20.560 --> 27:25.560 and blowing kisses from the control room, I'd say he still loves you. 27:25.560 --> 27:27.560 Rita, I suppose you'll welcome a restful evening at home 27:27.560 --> 27:29.560 after such an exciting broadcast. 27:29.560 --> 27:32.560 Oh, as a matter of fact, we're having a few friends over tonight, Ken. 27:32.560 --> 27:35.560 Well, from your basket here, let me recommend for your guests 27:35.560 --> 27:38.560 Grandestate's Ruby Port or Golden Musketel. 27:38.560 --> 27:41.560 You'll find either of these Grandestate California wines 27:41.560 --> 27:45.560 a delightful expression of hospitality when friends drop in, 27:45.560 --> 27:48.560 a delicious treat later in the evening with cake, nuts or cheese. 27:48.560 --> 27:49.560 You've sold me, Ken. 27:49.560 --> 27:50.560 Good. 27:50.560 --> 27:54.560 And Rita, Grandestate Ruby Port and Golden Musketel, 27:54.560 --> 27:58.560 like all Grandestate wines, are born of choicest grapes, 27:58.560 --> 28:03.560 then skillfully guided to taste perfection by Roma's master ventners. 28:03.560 --> 28:09.560 Necessary time and patient care endow each precious drop of Grandestate wines 28:09.560 --> 28:12.560 with a brilliant clarity, full fragrance and mellow taste 28:12.560 --> 28:15.560 that bespeak a truly magnificent wine. 28:15.560 --> 28:19.560 So to enjoy the ultimate in wine excellence, 28:19.560 --> 28:24.560 the wine to serve is Grandestate wine, presented by Roma, 28:24.560 --> 28:26.560 America's greatest ventner. 28:26.560 --> 28:27.560 I'll remember that. 28:27.560 --> 28:31.560 Fine. Say, Rita, we're looking forward to seeing you in Columbia's Down to Earth. 28:31.560 --> 28:33.560 Isn't that the one with Larry Park? 28:33.560 --> 28:35.560 Yes, I enjoyed making it. 28:35.560 --> 28:38.560 But the picture I'm really looking forward to is the new one I'm about to start. 28:38.560 --> 28:40.560 Also a Columbia picture. 28:40.560 --> 28:43.560 Oh? Why are you so particularly excited about it? 28:43.560 --> 28:47.560 Well, Ken, because Innit will be my favorite actor 28:47.560 --> 28:49.560 and it'll be directed by my favorite director, 28:49.560 --> 28:53.560 both the same man who also happens to be my husband, his name is Orson Welles. 28:53.560 --> 28:55.560 Good night, Rita. 28:55.560 --> 29:01.560 Next Thursday, same time, you will hear Mr. John Lund as star of Suspense. 29:01.560 --> 29:09.560 Produced and directed by William Spear for the Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California. 29:14.560 --> 29:18.560 Suspense is broadcast from coast to coast and to our men and women overseas by shortwave 29:18.560 --> 29:22.560 and through the worldwide facilities of the Armed Forces Radio Service. 29:22.560 --> 29:31.560 This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System.