1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:07,000 Suspense! 2 00:00:07,000 --> 00:00:27,520 Tonight, Auto Light and its 96,000 dealers present Mr. John Lund in Experiment 6R, a 3 00:00:27,520 --> 00:00:31,720 suspense play produced and edited by William Spear. 4 00:00:31,720 --> 00:00:40,080 Friends, I know you've enjoyed trouble-free summer driving if you've replaced those old 5 00:00:40,080 --> 00:00:44,760 style narrow gap spark plugs with wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs. 6 00:00:44,760 --> 00:00:46,640 Tell them why, Harlow, tell them why. 7 00:00:46,640 --> 00:00:50,760 Because auto light resistor spark plugs with the exclusive built in 10,000 ohm auto light 8 00:00:50,760 --> 00:00:55,280 resistor give you a full even spark all along the line of fire. 9 00:00:55,280 --> 00:00:56,680 Keep going, Harlow, you're doing great. 10 00:00:56,680 --> 00:01:00,600 Well, your engine idles smoother with auto light resistor spark plugs, performs better 11 00:01:00,600 --> 00:01:03,880 on leaner gas mixtures, actually saves you gas. 12 00:01:03,880 --> 00:01:05,480 You're getting better all the time. 13 00:01:05,480 --> 00:01:10,120 Auto light resistor spark plugs cut down radio and television interference too, so insist 14 00:01:10,120 --> 00:01:12,120 on auto light resistor spark plugs. 15 00:01:12,120 --> 00:01:14,520 Okay, Harlow, give them the old punch line. 16 00:01:14,520 --> 00:01:17,760 Don't be satisfied with spark plugs supposed to be just as good. 17 00:01:17,760 --> 00:01:20,760 Get genuine auto light resistor spark plugs. 18 00:01:20,760 --> 00:01:23,280 You're always right with auto light. 19 00:01:23,280 --> 00:01:27,120 And here's a reminder, suspense may be seen on television in many parts of the country 20 00:01:27,120 --> 00:01:29,880 every Tuesday night. 21 00:01:29,880 --> 00:01:35,600 And now with experiment 6R and with the performance of John Lund as Morris Brandt, auto light 22 00:01:35,600 --> 00:01:42,960 hopes once again to keep you in suspense. 23 00:01:42,960 --> 00:01:47,240 Entirely fitting somehow that here in the Carlton Plaza Hotel where he spent so much 24 00:01:47,240 --> 00:01:52,400 of his life, we should honor this hero of science and pay him our humble gratitude. 25 00:01:52,400 --> 00:01:57,800 Mr. Brandt is, as you know, at this moment in our special clinic. 26 00:01:57,800 --> 00:02:02,680 And it's from there that he will address us on the subject of experiment 6R, a page in 27 00:02:02,680 --> 00:02:06,920 the progress of science with which his name will forever be associated. 28 00:02:06,920 --> 00:02:12,240 When I received his letter and heard the thrilling news that unknown to any of us, a human volunteer 29 00:02:12,240 --> 00:02:18,080 had actually, well, it was of course inevitable that I should call this distinguished gathering 30 00:02:18,080 --> 00:02:19,720 together. 31 00:02:19,720 --> 00:02:24,040 I won't speak any longer now because minutes are precious. 32 00:02:24,040 --> 00:02:26,400 We're ready. 33 00:02:26,400 --> 00:02:33,480 Will you speak to us now, Mr. Brandt? 34 00:02:33,480 --> 00:02:34,480 Ladies and gentlemen. 35 00:02:34,480 --> 00:02:41,000 Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Morris Brandt. 36 00:02:41,000 --> 00:02:42,000 Brandt speaking. 37 00:02:42,000 --> 00:02:47,520 I don't know exactly how you good people of science are going to take my little story, 38 00:02:47,520 --> 00:02:51,320 the history of my own part in experiment 6R. 39 00:02:51,320 --> 00:02:56,680 When I finish my story, if I finish it, you will wonder perhaps why I wish to tell it 40 00:02:56,680 --> 00:02:58,280 at all. 41 00:02:58,280 --> 00:03:03,000 Well, something about the irony of this situation appeals to me. 42 00:03:03,000 --> 00:03:06,080 I'm going to enjoy every minute of it. 43 00:03:06,080 --> 00:03:11,360 You know, even the fact that somebody just now pressed a buzzer and I jumped to attention 44 00:03:11,360 --> 00:03:15,020 and started speaking is ironic. 45 00:03:15,020 --> 00:03:19,920 Because I guess that's how experiment 6R began a couple of months ago. 46 00:03:19,920 --> 00:03:28,800 Yes, just like that. 47 00:03:28,800 --> 00:03:29,800 Brandt speaking. 48 00:03:29,800 --> 00:03:31,880 Coffee, Mr. Brandt. 49 00:03:31,880 --> 00:03:32,880 Very well, sir. 50 00:03:32,880 --> 00:03:42,760 It was precisely 3.15 and 3.15 was the time for Mr. Paul Koblenz's afternoon coffee. 51 00:03:42,760 --> 00:03:48,240 Naturally, it was beneath the dignity of the manager of the Carlton Plaza Hotel to have 52 00:03:48,240 --> 00:03:53,120 the coffee served by anyone less than me, the assistant manager. 53 00:03:53,120 --> 00:03:59,520 And so each day the coffee tray with its silver urn, silver sugar and creamer, silver spoons 54 00:03:59,520 --> 00:04:05,440 and graceful limousine cups was left on my desk by a waiter ready for the humiliating 55 00:04:05,440 --> 00:04:06,440 ceremony. 56 00:04:06,440 --> 00:04:08,240 I picked it up and went in. 57 00:04:08,240 --> 00:04:15,120 Ah, Mr. Brandt, you'll join me, of course. 58 00:04:15,120 --> 00:04:16,120 Thank you, Mr. Koblenz. 59 00:04:16,120 --> 00:04:18,160 A little coffee is very relaxing. 60 00:04:18,160 --> 00:04:21,760 It was relaxing for him. 61 00:04:21,760 --> 00:04:24,480 My duties only began with bringing in the coffee. 62 00:04:24,480 --> 00:04:30,200 I had to set the silver tray on his desk and then wait while Mr. Koblenz detached a small 63 00:04:30,200 --> 00:04:32,600 key from his vest chain. 64 00:04:32,600 --> 00:04:37,280 Then it was my job to take the key and open the small wall cabinet near the heavily draped 65 00:04:37,280 --> 00:04:41,600 window where Koblenz kept a supply of liquor. 66 00:04:41,600 --> 00:04:46,000 I would take out a bottle of expensive brandy and carry it over to the desk. 67 00:04:46,000 --> 00:04:49,120 Koblenz liked the dash of it in his coffee. 68 00:04:49,120 --> 00:04:51,960 Ah, thank you, Mr. Brandt. 69 00:04:51,960 --> 00:04:56,840 It was this part of the silly ritual that I hated most. 70 00:04:56,840 --> 00:05:01,720 That locked cabinet was a symbol of Koblenz's suspicion and distrust. 71 00:05:01,720 --> 00:05:06,560 No one but me was ever permitted to enter his sacred office and I didn't drink, but 72 00:05:06,560 --> 00:05:08,240 that made no difference. 73 00:05:08,240 --> 00:05:11,160 The liquor was expensive and might be stolen. 74 00:05:11,160 --> 00:05:12,520 By whom? 75 00:05:12,520 --> 00:05:13,520 By me. 76 00:05:13,520 --> 00:05:16,280 Mr. Brandt, I have been looking over the monthly accounts. 77 00:05:16,280 --> 00:05:19,840 Your latest innovation seems to be doing quite well. 78 00:05:19,840 --> 00:05:20,840 The stag room? 79 00:05:20,840 --> 00:05:22,560 Oh, that was a lucky guess. 80 00:05:22,560 --> 00:05:24,000 I think not. 81 00:05:24,000 --> 00:05:28,160 Your reasoning, I believe, was that businessmen like a place to lunch by themselves and quiet 82 00:05:28,160 --> 00:05:29,160 and comfort. 83 00:05:29,160 --> 00:05:33,760 It seems, Mr. Brandt, that you have the rare talent of knowing what people want. 84 00:05:33,760 --> 00:05:35,360 Well, I hope so. 85 00:05:35,360 --> 00:05:42,280 Especially when giving people what they want can be so profitable and lead to give you 86 00:05:42,280 --> 00:05:43,280 what you want. 87 00:05:43,280 --> 00:05:49,720 Yes, indeed, Mr. Brandt, you have a very successful record during your twelve years here. 88 00:05:49,720 --> 00:05:50,720 Perhaps too successful. 89 00:05:50,720 --> 00:05:51,720 Why? 90 00:05:51,720 --> 00:05:53,120 What do you mean? 91 00:05:53,120 --> 00:05:57,240 Success has the habit of making a man crave something further. 92 00:05:57,240 --> 00:06:00,480 I think we shall have to have a talk some day soon, Mr. Brandt. 93 00:06:00,480 --> 00:06:01,600 But that will be all for today. 94 00:06:01,600 --> 00:06:04,200 You may replace the brandy. 95 00:06:04,200 --> 00:06:06,800 He handed me the little key to the cabinet. 96 00:06:06,800 --> 00:06:10,840 He had finished with me for the day. 97 00:06:10,840 --> 00:06:14,960 Back in my office, I thought of what Mr. Koblenz had said. 98 00:06:14,960 --> 00:06:17,360 Too successful meant only one thing. 99 00:06:17,360 --> 00:06:23,360 He thought that I was ambitious to hold his job, my only possible advancement. 100 00:06:23,360 --> 00:06:26,020 Mr. Koblenz was quite correct. 101 00:06:26,020 --> 00:06:28,800 I would do anything to have that job. 102 00:06:28,800 --> 00:06:29,800 Anything. 103 00:06:29,800 --> 00:06:34,400 Now, after twelve years of it, I was determined to have that job. 104 00:06:34,400 --> 00:06:41,920 Not because it was a better job, but because it was his. 105 00:06:41,920 --> 00:06:47,640 I didn't sleep well that night in my cramped inside room, thinking of Mr. Koblenz in his 106 00:06:47,640 --> 00:06:49,920 penthouse suite. 107 00:06:49,920 --> 00:06:56,680 But finally it was morning and the hotel came to life again with all its problems. 108 00:06:56,680 --> 00:07:00,960 There were the usual two or three bad checks accepted by the night clerk and all the other 109 00:07:00,960 --> 00:07:04,200 boring commonplace irritants. 110 00:07:04,200 --> 00:07:07,480 The only drama of the day was brought in by the housekeeper. 111 00:07:07,480 --> 00:07:10,040 May I speak to you a moment, Mr. Brandt? 112 00:07:10,040 --> 00:07:11,240 Yes, Mrs. Oven. 113 00:07:11,240 --> 00:07:13,420 It's about 1402, Mr. Brandt. 114 00:07:13,420 --> 00:07:14,520 What seems to be the trouble? 115 00:07:14,520 --> 00:07:16,240 The maids won't make up 1402. 116 00:07:16,240 --> 00:07:17,240 Why? 117 00:07:17,240 --> 00:07:22,480 The room, I know it sounds crazy, but that room is full of rats. 118 00:07:22,480 --> 00:07:23,480 Live rats? 119 00:07:23,480 --> 00:07:24,480 Oh, nonsense. 120 00:07:24,480 --> 00:07:26,480 The maids are imagining things. 121 00:07:26,480 --> 00:07:28,280 It's true, I saw it myself. 122 00:07:28,280 --> 00:07:30,920 Very well, Mrs. Ovenman, I'll see about it. 123 00:07:30,920 --> 00:07:37,240 Everyone's afraid to go in 1402, so I hope you can get them out of there. 124 00:07:37,240 --> 00:07:41,640 Well, thank you very much, Mr. Brandt. 125 00:07:41,640 --> 00:07:42,640 Live rats. 126 00:07:42,640 --> 00:07:43,640 What next? 127 00:07:43,640 --> 00:07:45,760 Room clerk, please. 128 00:07:45,760 --> 00:07:48,520 Hello, Brandt speaking. 129 00:07:48,520 --> 00:07:50,360 Who is the occupant of 1402? 130 00:07:50,360 --> 00:07:51,360 Dr. Tomlinson? 131 00:07:51,360 --> 00:07:54,360 Is he in his room? 132 00:07:54,360 --> 00:07:57,760 Well, when he returns to the hotel, please let me know. 133 00:07:57,760 --> 00:08:01,760 I shall have to speak with him. 134 00:08:01,760 --> 00:08:03,760 Rats. 135 00:08:03,760 --> 00:08:12,240 Well, it was fairly typical of the kind of problem which is automatically relayed to 136 00:08:12,240 --> 00:08:18,040 the assistant manager, being hardly glamorous nor important enough for the manager to be 137 00:08:18,040 --> 00:08:19,040 bothered with. 138 00:08:19,040 --> 00:08:24,080 Some difficult and taxing assignment, like greeting Greer Garson, maybe, would be more 139 00:08:24,080 --> 00:08:29,320 fitting use for the time and talents of Paul Koblenz. 140 00:08:29,320 --> 00:08:36,360 As I thought about it, and him, I began to hear a sound in my head like a clock ticking. 141 00:08:36,360 --> 00:08:40,280 I recognized that it was almost 3.15. 142 00:08:40,280 --> 00:08:46,560 As busy as I was, I could sense, without looking at the clock, that it was nearly 3.15. 143 00:08:46,560 --> 00:08:52,040 It was time for the buzzer on my desk to sound out the call which symbolized all the tyranny, 144 00:08:52,040 --> 00:08:55,960 all the pompous authority and the warped sadistic soul of... 145 00:08:55,960 --> 00:08:56,960 Brandt speaking. 146 00:08:56,960 --> 00:08:57,960 Coffee, Mr. Brandt. 147 00:08:57,960 --> 00:08:58,960 Very well, sir. 148 00:08:58,960 --> 00:09:09,360 Again, the humiliating ritual, performing the services of a waiter to satisfy Paul Koblenz 149 00:09:09,360 --> 00:09:11,480 of his authority. 150 00:09:11,480 --> 00:09:15,720 And today, he began the talk with me that he had been promising for so long. 151 00:09:15,720 --> 00:09:18,240 Mr. Brandt, you have been with us for 12 years. 152 00:09:18,240 --> 00:09:19,240 Is that correct? 153 00:09:19,240 --> 00:09:20,240 Yes, Mr. Koblenz. 154 00:09:20,240 --> 00:09:21,240 12 years and two months. 155 00:09:21,240 --> 00:09:26,800 And you have always impressed me as an ambitious man, a competent man. 156 00:09:26,800 --> 00:09:28,200 Thank you, sir. 157 00:09:28,200 --> 00:09:34,000 But you must realize that you have come as far up the ladder as is possible, at least 158 00:09:34,000 --> 00:09:35,000 while I am alive. 159 00:09:35,000 --> 00:09:36,740 Well, I don't think... 160 00:09:36,740 --> 00:09:39,800 And I am a very healthy man for my age, Mr. Brandt. 161 00:09:39,800 --> 00:09:44,920 Eventually, you may replace me, but it will be a long time to wait, I'm afraid. 162 00:09:44,920 --> 00:09:46,640 A very long time indeed. 163 00:09:46,640 --> 00:09:49,160 Well, I'm really awfully busy, Mr. Koblenz. 164 00:09:49,160 --> 00:09:53,840 I have observed certain signs of restlessness in you during the last year or so. 165 00:09:53,840 --> 00:09:54,840 Restlessness? 166 00:09:54,840 --> 00:09:58,160 You are not satisfied to be merely the assistant manager. 167 00:09:58,160 --> 00:10:01,320 You dream of occupying this desk someday. 168 00:10:01,320 --> 00:10:02,320 My desk. 169 00:10:02,320 --> 00:10:03,960 Will that be all, Mr. Koblenz? 170 00:10:03,960 --> 00:10:06,920 I will tell you when you may go. 171 00:10:06,920 --> 00:10:11,160 You would like to have my salary, which is very considerable, instead of your own, which 172 00:10:11,160 --> 00:10:14,400 is a good deal smaller. 173 00:10:14,400 --> 00:10:20,240 I must say that no one is so well qualified, if anything should happen to me, you would 174 00:10:20,240 --> 00:10:23,240 automatically be appointed manager of the hotel. 175 00:10:23,240 --> 00:10:24,240 Mr. Koblenz, I'm sure I never... 176 00:10:24,240 --> 00:10:26,200 We will not discuss the matter further. 177 00:10:26,200 --> 00:10:34,240 I just wanted you to know that I know, as they say, what the score is. 178 00:10:34,240 --> 00:10:38,880 Have you finished your coffee, Mr. Koblenz? 179 00:10:38,880 --> 00:10:40,720 I have finished my coffee, Mr. Brandt. 180 00:10:40,720 --> 00:10:41,720 Good afternoon. 181 00:10:41,720 --> 00:10:49,680 It was exactly 3.30 as Koblenz handed me the little key to the cabinet and I replaced 182 00:10:49,680 --> 00:10:50,680 the brandy. 183 00:10:50,680 --> 00:10:56,080 I took the coffee things back into my own office and closed the door. 184 00:10:56,080 --> 00:10:58,000 I knew exactly what Koblenz had meant. 185 00:10:58,000 --> 00:11:03,280 He had actually said, I know you would like to eliminate me in some way and I warn you, 186 00:11:03,280 --> 00:11:04,560 I'm on the alert. 187 00:11:04,560 --> 00:11:07,440 Don't try anything funny if you know what's good for you. 188 00:11:07,440 --> 00:11:10,960 As if there were the slightest chance. 189 00:11:10,960 --> 00:11:17,880 As much as I hated him, there was nothing I could do. 190 00:11:17,880 --> 00:11:18,880 Mr. Brandt speaking. 191 00:11:18,880 --> 00:11:22,600 You asked me to call when Dr. Tomlinson returned to the hotel, Mr. Brandt. 192 00:11:22,600 --> 00:11:23,600 What? 193 00:11:23,600 --> 00:11:26,600 Oh, oh yes, thank you. 194 00:11:26,600 --> 00:11:28,600 Yes? 195 00:11:28,600 --> 00:11:35,960 Oh, yes sir. 196 00:11:35,960 --> 00:11:40,080 I am Mr. Brandt, doctor, the assistant manager of the hotel. 197 00:11:40,080 --> 00:11:42,040 May I step in for a moment? 198 00:11:42,040 --> 00:11:45,800 Yes, come right in. 199 00:11:45,800 --> 00:11:46,800 What can I do for you? 200 00:11:46,800 --> 00:11:50,680 Well, I suppose you noticed your room hasn't been straightened. 201 00:11:50,680 --> 00:11:55,080 And of course it's not difficult to see the reason why. 202 00:11:55,080 --> 00:11:56,680 You have them caged, I see. 203 00:11:56,680 --> 00:11:58,480 Oh yes, yes, you mean my rats. 204 00:11:58,480 --> 00:12:00,960 They're beautiful specimens, aren't they? 205 00:12:00,960 --> 00:12:01,960 Beautiful. 206 00:12:01,960 --> 00:12:03,520 How did you get them into the hotel? 207 00:12:03,520 --> 00:12:06,400 Oh, the cage fits into a leather carrying case. 208 00:12:06,400 --> 00:12:08,000 Rather clever, isn't it? 209 00:12:08,000 --> 00:12:09,000 I see. 210 00:12:09,000 --> 00:12:12,960 Well, I'm sorry, Dr. Tomlinson, but I'm afraid those rats will have to go. 211 00:12:12,960 --> 00:12:14,960 Yes, dear me, I was afraid of that. 212 00:12:14,960 --> 00:12:17,040 It would only be for another day, Mr. Brandt. 213 00:12:17,040 --> 00:12:19,280 I'll be returning to New York tomorrow. 214 00:12:19,280 --> 00:12:20,400 I can't leave them now. 215 00:12:20,400 --> 00:12:23,960 They're the subject of an experiment that may lead to the cure of an extremely deadly 216 00:12:23,960 --> 00:12:27,680 disease which, for scientific purposes, we refer to as 6R. 217 00:12:27,680 --> 00:12:28,680 Well, I'm sure, doctor. 218 00:12:28,680 --> 00:12:29,680 Let me show you something here. 219 00:12:29,680 --> 00:12:30,680 You see this yellow powder? 220 00:12:30,680 --> 00:12:31,680 Take a look at this label. 221 00:12:31,680 --> 00:12:32,680 Paradymethyl... 222 00:12:32,680 --> 00:12:33,680 Doctor, I really don't know what that is. 223 00:12:33,680 --> 00:12:34,680 Paradymethyl... 224 00:12:34,680 --> 00:12:35,680 Paradymethyl... 225 00:12:35,680 --> 00:12:36,680 Paradymethyl... 226 00:12:36,680 --> 00:12:37,680 Paradymethyl... 227 00:12:37,680 --> 00:12:39,160 Doctor, I really don't have... 228 00:12:39,160 --> 00:12:40,920 Paradymethylamino asbenzamine. 229 00:12:40,920 --> 00:12:43,400 It's commonly called a butter yellow, Mr. Brandt. 230 00:12:43,400 --> 00:12:48,040 You see, when a rat gets a bit of this daily in his food, he develops 6R within four months, 231 00:12:48,040 --> 00:12:52,040 a spreading internal growth which insidiously destroys vital tissues. 232 00:12:52,040 --> 00:12:56,360 And by the time the results are evident, the rat is past all hope and in a very short time 233 00:12:56,360 --> 00:12:57,360 it's dead. 234 00:12:57,360 --> 00:13:00,120 Yes, doctor, it's very fascinating, I'm sure. 235 00:13:00,120 --> 00:13:03,240 But I'm afraid... 236 00:13:03,240 --> 00:13:08,600 Oh, will this powder induce 6R in a human being, too? 237 00:13:08,600 --> 00:13:11,320 Almost certainly, but naturally we haven't been able to try it. 238 00:13:11,320 --> 00:13:12,320 No volunteers. 239 00:13:12,320 --> 00:13:15,880 I don't suppose it requires very large doses either. 240 00:13:15,880 --> 00:13:16,880 To develop 6R? 241 00:13:16,880 --> 00:13:17,880 Oh, no, indeed. 242 00:13:17,880 --> 00:13:21,640 Just a very tiny bit daily and then... 243 00:13:21,640 --> 00:13:25,560 Mr. Brandt Schiller, you understand the importance of this work and why I must have the rats 244 00:13:25,560 --> 00:13:27,840 with me constantly? 245 00:13:27,840 --> 00:13:31,600 But if you insist, I shall move to another hotel, of course. 246 00:13:31,600 --> 00:13:32,680 No, doctor. 247 00:13:32,680 --> 00:13:35,640 I represent the management and I ask you to stay. 248 00:13:35,640 --> 00:13:37,520 And I'll see that your room is straightened. 249 00:13:37,520 --> 00:13:41,720 Well, I must say that's wonderful of you, Mr. Brandt. 250 00:13:41,720 --> 00:13:43,720 Are you interested in science? 251 00:13:43,720 --> 00:13:44,720 Not until now. 252 00:13:44,720 --> 00:13:45,720 That's wonderful. 253 00:13:45,720 --> 00:13:48,840 Oh, by the way, please tell the maid not to go near the cages. 254 00:13:48,840 --> 00:13:52,520 Sometimes the rats might bite and it might be that they could transmit 6R that way. 255 00:13:52,520 --> 00:13:55,360 We're not sure you understand, but it's better not to take any chances. 256 00:13:55,360 --> 00:13:57,000 Yes, I understand. 257 00:13:57,000 --> 00:13:58,000 Is that powder... 258 00:13:58,000 --> 00:13:59,900 I won't attempt to pronounce it. 259 00:13:59,900 --> 00:14:01,600 Is it quite safe in here? 260 00:14:01,600 --> 00:14:03,360 Oh, yes, yes, see? 261 00:14:03,360 --> 00:14:04,560 No one could find it here. 262 00:14:04,560 --> 00:14:05,560 I see. 263 00:14:05,560 --> 00:14:06,960 And besides, no one would know what it was. 264 00:14:06,960 --> 00:14:09,600 If some got lost, it looks just like yellow dust. 265 00:14:09,600 --> 00:14:10,960 It would only be thrown away. 266 00:14:10,960 --> 00:14:12,760 I have more for the experiments. 267 00:14:12,760 --> 00:14:14,480 Don't worry, Mr. Brandt. 268 00:14:14,480 --> 00:14:18,800 Well, I'm sorry if we've inconvenienced you, doctor. 269 00:14:18,800 --> 00:14:20,760 Oh, have you had dinner? 270 00:14:20,760 --> 00:14:22,800 Why, no, as a matter of fact. 271 00:14:22,800 --> 00:14:23,800 Would you join me? 272 00:14:23,800 --> 00:14:25,040 Seven o'clock in the grill room? 273 00:14:25,040 --> 00:14:26,880 Well, I should be very pleased. 274 00:14:26,880 --> 00:14:27,880 Good. 275 00:14:27,880 --> 00:14:28,880 We'll talk some more. 276 00:14:28,880 --> 00:14:35,680 You know, I should think that someone who, well, is desperately ill, let us say, would 277 00:14:35,680 --> 00:14:38,400 be honored to be your volunteer. 278 00:14:38,400 --> 00:14:43,320 I know in similar circumstances, I should be proud. 279 00:14:43,320 --> 00:14:46,320 Until seven, doctor. 280 00:14:46,320 --> 00:14:53,400 You wish to see me, Mr. Brandt? 281 00:14:53,400 --> 00:14:54,900 Yes, Mrs. Overman. 282 00:14:54,900 --> 00:14:58,040 It is very important that Dr. Tomlinson finish his stave. 283 00:14:58,040 --> 00:14:59,040 Yes, sir. 284 00:14:59,040 --> 00:15:03,880 I will meet the chambermaid in his rooms promptly at seven fifteen and see to it that the rats 285 00:15:03,880 --> 00:15:05,360 don't frighten them. 286 00:15:05,360 --> 00:15:11,560 Thank you, Mr. Brandt. 287 00:15:11,560 --> 00:15:13,560 The doctor arrived exactly at seven. 288 00:15:13,560 --> 00:15:18,680 And at seven ten, while he was still sipping his sherry, I excused myself and went up to 289 00:15:18,680 --> 00:15:19,680 fourteen oh two. 290 00:15:19,680 --> 00:15:24,520 When the chambermaid was taking the soiled linens to the laundry wagon in the hall, leaving 291 00:15:24,520 --> 00:15:29,920 me alone in Dr. Tomlinson's room, I filled the hotel envelope with a deadly yellow powder. 292 00:15:29,920 --> 00:15:33,200 I was back downstairs before the soup was served. 293 00:15:33,200 --> 00:15:35,800 I have never enjoyed a dinner more. 294 00:15:35,800 --> 00:15:39,840 Dr. Tomlinson prattled on, but I didn't even hear. 295 00:15:39,840 --> 00:15:45,800 I was thinking what a pleasure it was going to be to have coffee at three fifteen tomorrow 296 00:15:45,800 --> 00:15:59,920 afternoon with Mr. Paul Copeland. 297 00:15:59,920 --> 00:16:05,360 Auto Light is bringing you Mr. John Lund in Experiment 6R, tonight's production in radio's 298 00:16:05,360 --> 00:16:16,840 outstanding theater of thrills, Suspends. 299 00:16:16,840 --> 00:16:22,120 Say Hap, my nephew went to camp this summer and they taught him a lot of useful things, 300 00:16:22,120 --> 00:16:25,180 like how to send smoke signals with a brush fire and blanket. 301 00:16:25,180 --> 00:16:28,320 You should see the lovely charred hole in our living room rug. 302 00:16:28,320 --> 00:16:32,600 Yes, but did they teach him about the new wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs? 303 00:16:32,600 --> 00:16:33,640 No, Hap, they didn't. 304 00:16:33,640 --> 00:16:35,200 So I had a man to man talk with him. 305 00:16:35,200 --> 00:16:40,120 I told him, replace old style narrow gap spark plugs with wide gap auto light resistor spark 306 00:16:40,120 --> 00:16:44,560 plugs for easier starting in cold temperatures, for smoother idling, for better performance 307 00:16:44,560 --> 00:16:46,000 on leaner gas mixtures. 308 00:16:46,000 --> 00:16:47,920 They actually save you gas. 309 00:16:47,920 --> 00:16:48,920 That's useful information. 310 00:16:48,920 --> 00:16:49,920 Right. 311 00:16:49,920 --> 00:16:53,160 I told him confidentially of course, that every auto light resistor spark plug has an 312 00:16:53,160 --> 00:16:56,560 exclusive built in ten thousand ohm auto light resistor. 313 00:16:56,560 --> 00:17:00,040 I said, insist on auto light resistor spark plugs now. 314 00:17:00,040 --> 00:17:02,840 Don't accept spark plugs that are supposed to be as good. 315 00:17:02,840 --> 00:17:03,840 That's telling him. 316 00:17:03,840 --> 00:17:08,720 Boy, that mighty mite, that auto light resistor explains why auto light resistor spark plugs 317 00:17:08,720 --> 00:17:13,160 mean easier starting in cold temperatures, smoother idling, better performance on leaner 318 00:17:13,160 --> 00:17:14,380 gas mixtures. 319 00:17:14,380 --> 00:17:16,360 They actually save you gas. 320 00:17:16,360 --> 00:17:19,920 So insist on auto light. 321 00:17:19,920 --> 00:17:25,960 And now auto light brings back to our Hollywood sound stage, John Lund in experiment 6R. 322 00:17:25,960 --> 00:17:28,400 A tale well calculated to keep you in. 323 00:17:28,400 --> 00:17:29,400 Suspended. 324 00:17:29,400 --> 00:17:34,240 Coblentz. 325 00:17:34,240 --> 00:17:35,240 Brandt speaking. 326 00:17:35,240 --> 00:17:36,240 Coffee Mr. Brandt. 327 00:17:36,240 --> 00:17:37,240 Yes, Mr. Coblentz. 328 00:17:37,240 --> 00:17:44,240 A waiter had just brought the tray, set it on my desk and left. 329 00:17:44,240 --> 00:17:46,240 My door was locked. 330 00:17:46,240 --> 00:17:52,040 I took out the envelope with the powder, put a pinch of it into one of the costly limoish 331 00:17:52,040 --> 00:17:57,520 cups, filled both cups with coffee from the silver pot. 332 00:17:57,520 --> 00:18:03,120 And carried the tray into the sumptuous office next door. 333 00:18:03,120 --> 00:18:09,080 The office that would soon become my own. 334 00:18:09,080 --> 00:18:11,720 You will join me, of course, Mr. Brandt. 335 00:18:11,720 --> 00:18:12,720 Of course, Mr. Coblentz. 336 00:18:12,720 --> 00:18:13,720 Of course I would. 337 00:18:13,720 --> 00:18:14,720 I always had. 338 00:18:14,720 --> 00:18:19,720 But beginning with today, I would enjoy it. 339 00:18:19,720 --> 00:18:23,720 There was not the slightest alteration in the usual ridiculous routine. 340 00:18:23,720 --> 00:18:28,840 Coblentz removed the little key from his chain and handed it to me. 341 00:18:28,840 --> 00:18:31,600 I got the brandy from the cabinet. 342 00:18:31,600 --> 00:18:36,920 Coblentz poured a bit of the brandy into his cup and took a sip. 343 00:18:36,920 --> 00:18:37,920 Hmm. 344 00:18:37,920 --> 00:18:41,120 Exceptional good coffee today, Brandt. 345 00:18:41,120 --> 00:18:42,120 They make it yourself? 346 00:18:42,120 --> 00:18:43,120 What? 347 00:18:43,120 --> 00:18:44,120 Why? 348 00:18:44,120 --> 00:18:45,120 How do you mean? 349 00:18:45,120 --> 00:18:47,520 Oh, don't take me so seriously, Brandt. 350 00:18:47,520 --> 00:18:51,240 But knowing your efficiency in all matters of the hotel, I'm sure you could prepare 351 00:18:51,240 --> 00:18:54,440 a very unusual cup of coffee. 352 00:18:54,440 --> 00:18:57,960 Well, that's very nice of you to say, Mr. Coblentz. 353 00:18:57,960 --> 00:19:00,720 But I know you haven't time to waste making coffee. 354 00:19:00,720 --> 00:19:06,240 Too busy thinking of ways you can work your way into my job, aren't you? 355 00:19:06,240 --> 00:19:09,400 And as I told you before, you won't get it while I live. 356 00:19:09,400 --> 00:19:13,840 And I come from a very long-lived family. 357 00:19:13,840 --> 00:19:17,120 Yes, surely. 358 00:19:17,120 --> 00:19:18,120 More coffee, sir? 359 00:19:18,120 --> 00:19:22,560 Yes, please. 360 00:19:22,560 --> 00:19:25,000 Nothing could possibly go wrong. 361 00:19:25,000 --> 00:19:29,640 I had found out enough from Dr. Tomlinson to know that humans, and I stretched a point 362 00:19:29,640 --> 00:19:35,360 to include Paul Coblentz, that humans responded to drugs in very much the same way as rats. 363 00:19:35,360 --> 00:19:39,920 That was the reason rats were used for experiments in medical research. 364 00:19:39,920 --> 00:19:43,320 Almost invariably, the drugs that could kill a rat could kill a man. 365 00:19:43,320 --> 00:19:45,520 But the powder would never be detected. 366 00:19:45,520 --> 00:19:47,520 Only its effect. 367 00:19:47,520 --> 00:19:52,160 Even after months of tiny doses, Coblentz would suddenly learn that he was harboring 368 00:19:52,160 --> 00:19:55,000 the hidden killer, Sixar. 369 00:19:55,000 --> 00:19:59,080 I kept the powder in my jacket pocket. 370 00:19:59,080 --> 00:20:04,080 As the weeks passed, it became a matter of routine to put some in Paul Coblentz's daily 371 00:20:04,080 --> 00:20:05,080 coffee. 372 00:20:05,080 --> 00:20:08,840 But try as I would to remain calm. 373 00:20:08,840 --> 00:20:12,880 Sometimes the excitement of it would become almost unbearable, particularly at the moments 374 00:20:12,880 --> 00:20:17,880 when I serve the coffee. 375 00:20:17,880 --> 00:20:25,240 Mr. Brent, I can't tell you what pleasure this afternoon cup of coffee gives me. 376 00:20:25,240 --> 00:20:29,040 And of course, it gives me one of the few chances I get during the day to see my busy 377 00:20:29,040 --> 00:20:32,400 and trusted assistant. 378 00:20:32,400 --> 00:20:34,120 That is a pleasure, too. 379 00:20:34,120 --> 00:20:35,120 Thank you, Mr. Coblentz. 380 00:20:35,120 --> 00:20:39,600 Oh, I received a letter a few days back from a Dr. Ernst Tomlinson. 381 00:20:39,600 --> 00:20:40,600 Tomlinson? 382 00:20:40,600 --> 00:20:43,120 He was a guest here, I believe, for several days. 383 00:20:43,120 --> 00:20:44,120 Oh, really? 384 00:20:44,120 --> 00:20:45,120 Well, I don't... 385 00:20:45,120 --> 00:20:47,480 Surely you haven't forgotten. 386 00:20:47,480 --> 00:20:52,920 He wished specifically to be remembered to you, the gentleman with the rats. 387 00:20:52,920 --> 00:20:53,920 Rats? 388 00:20:53,920 --> 00:20:56,400 Oh, yes, I do recall something. 389 00:20:56,400 --> 00:20:57,400 Yes, of course. 390 00:20:57,400 --> 00:21:01,760 I realize, Mr. Brent, that I have allowed many of my managerial duties to fall on your 391 00:21:01,760 --> 00:21:03,560 capable shoulders. 392 00:21:03,560 --> 00:21:08,000 Which action has perhaps given you a mistaken opinion of your authority on these premises. 393 00:21:08,000 --> 00:21:10,720 Not really, Mr. Brent, live rats in a room. 394 00:21:10,720 --> 00:21:11,800 The animals were caged? 395 00:21:11,800 --> 00:21:14,280 I think I should have been consulted. 396 00:21:14,280 --> 00:21:19,200 Fortunately, our other guests were not cognizant of the fact that we were for two days zoo 397 00:21:19,200 --> 00:21:21,040 keepers of a sort. 398 00:21:21,040 --> 00:21:25,560 If they had known, I'm afraid Mr. Fenwick should have immediately replaced you. 399 00:21:25,560 --> 00:21:26,560 I'm sorry, Mr. Coblentz. 400 00:21:26,560 --> 00:21:27,560 Yes, I am sure. 401 00:21:27,560 --> 00:21:30,960 The good doctor seemed quite taken by you, Mr. Brent. 402 00:21:30,960 --> 00:21:34,400 Have you a personality side you've never shown me? 403 00:21:34,400 --> 00:21:39,360 I've always considered you rather dull. 404 00:21:39,360 --> 00:21:41,600 Will that be all, Mr. Coblentz? 405 00:21:41,600 --> 00:21:43,240 You're angry. 406 00:21:43,240 --> 00:21:45,440 Well, no matter. 407 00:21:45,440 --> 00:21:47,160 See, yes, that will be all. 408 00:21:47,160 --> 00:21:48,160 I'm rather tired today. 409 00:21:48,160 --> 00:21:49,160 Go, please. 410 00:21:49,160 --> 00:21:56,160 Dr. Tomlinson had written, but only to compliment me. 411 00:21:56,160 --> 00:21:57,160 That was good. 412 00:21:57,160 --> 00:22:00,160 He hadn't missed any of the yellow powder. 413 00:22:00,160 --> 00:22:06,560 As far as Coblentz's insulting behavior was concerned, well, there wouldn't be much more 414 00:22:06,560 --> 00:22:07,560 of it. 415 00:22:07,560 --> 00:22:11,280 Dr. Tomlinson had said there were no outward effects to 6R. 416 00:22:11,280 --> 00:22:16,120 The tiny admission of fatigue on Paul Coblentz's part was, I felt it. 417 00:22:16,120 --> 00:22:23,120 I watched Paul Coblentz grow progressively more pettier and sultry. 418 00:22:23,120 --> 00:22:33,040 Two weeks into the fourth month of experiment 6R, and in a way I didn't expect, the last 419 00:22:33,040 --> 00:22:35,000 scene began. 420 00:22:35,000 --> 00:22:39,520 Under the insurance laws of our state, all employees participating in group insurance 421 00:22:39,520 --> 00:22:42,040 had a yearly physical examination. 422 00:22:42,040 --> 00:22:46,640 The four months Dr. Tomlinson had considered necessary to allow the growth of 6R were almost 423 00:22:46,640 --> 00:22:47,640 completed. 424 00:22:47,640 --> 00:22:52,520 By now, 6R would have taken hold of Paul Coblentz sufficiently to be recognized in a medical 425 00:22:52,520 --> 00:22:59,320 examination and sufficiently to be at that point incurably fatal. 426 00:22:59,320 --> 00:23:04,160 Even at this late date, there were outwardly no signs of Coblentz's illness, which would 427 00:23:04,160 --> 00:23:07,320 make the announcement by the insurance doctor even more shocking. 428 00:23:07,320 --> 00:23:15,520 It was a nervous moment. 429 00:23:15,520 --> 00:23:16,520 Brandt speaking. 430 00:23:16,520 --> 00:23:22,400 Mr. Brandt, I have set aside 2.30 as the time for my visit to the insurance doctors. 431 00:23:22,400 --> 00:23:28,720 That should get me back to my office for coffee, after which if you have no pressing duties, 432 00:23:28,720 --> 00:23:29,720 you may... 433 00:23:29,720 --> 00:23:34,720 Yes, Mr. Coblentz. 434 00:23:34,720 --> 00:23:38,920 At three o'clock, I heard him come back into his office next door. 435 00:23:38,920 --> 00:23:40,920 He walked rather heavily, I thought. 436 00:23:40,920 --> 00:23:45,240 I wanted desperately to see him at once, to see the reaction he must have to the news 437 00:23:45,240 --> 00:23:47,640 the insurance doctors had given him. 438 00:23:47,640 --> 00:23:50,040 But I waited. 439 00:23:50,040 --> 00:23:53,440 Suddenly it was 3.15. 440 00:23:53,440 --> 00:23:54,440 Brandt speaking. 441 00:23:54,440 --> 00:23:55,440 Coffee, Mr. Brandt. 442 00:23:55,440 --> 00:23:58,360 Yes, Mr. Coblentz. 443 00:23:58,360 --> 00:24:01,000 The waiter had brought the coffee tray as usual. 444 00:24:01,000 --> 00:24:04,000 I carried it in. 445 00:24:04,000 --> 00:24:09,440 Coblentz sat quietly at his desk, his face partially in the shadow from the drawn blinds. 446 00:24:09,440 --> 00:24:11,960 You'll join me, of course, Mr. Brandt. 447 00:24:11,960 --> 00:24:14,080 Oh, thank you, Mr. Coblentz. 448 00:24:14,080 --> 00:24:15,080 Here's the key. 449 00:24:15,080 --> 00:24:21,040 I set the tray down, took the little key to the liquor cabinet which stood against the 450 00:24:21,040 --> 00:24:23,720 wall and bent over to open it. 451 00:24:23,720 --> 00:24:31,600 There was a new mirror above the cabinet, and what I saw in it made me drop the bottle. 452 00:24:31,600 --> 00:24:33,320 Anything wrong, Mr. Brandt? 453 00:24:33,320 --> 00:24:34,320 You seem startled. 454 00:24:34,320 --> 00:24:35,320 The cups. 455 00:24:35,320 --> 00:24:36,320 The cups. 456 00:24:36,320 --> 00:24:40,040 You've turned absolutely white as death. 457 00:24:40,040 --> 00:24:41,600 But then I meant to talk to you. 458 00:24:41,600 --> 00:24:44,080 You haven't been looking well for some time. 459 00:24:44,080 --> 00:24:46,240 You... you changed... 460 00:24:46,240 --> 00:24:48,760 I beg your pardon? 461 00:24:48,760 --> 00:24:52,200 You switched the coffee cups while I turned away to get your brandy. 462 00:24:52,200 --> 00:24:53,800 I always do. 463 00:24:53,800 --> 00:24:55,720 It is an old custom in my family. 464 00:24:55,720 --> 00:24:56,720 An old German custom. 465 00:24:56,720 --> 00:24:57,720 A very old custom. 466 00:24:57,720 --> 00:25:02,480 A very old and long-lived family. 467 00:25:02,480 --> 00:25:04,840 Have you all this time? 468 00:25:04,840 --> 00:25:07,560 Yes, Mr. Brandt. 469 00:25:07,560 --> 00:25:09,600 All this time. 470 00:25:09,600 --> 00:25:11,160 Operator. 471 00:25:11,160 --> 00:25:15,600 Connect me with the insurance doctors, please. 472 00:25:15,600 --> 00:25:18,640 In 308. 473 00:25:18,640 --> 00:25:22,400 Is it possible for you to see Mr. Brandt immediately, doctor? 474 00:25:22,400 --> 00:25:24,160 Thank you. 475 00:25:24,160 --> 00:25:34,680 It's urgent. 476 00:25:34,680 --> 00:25:39,000 And so, experiment 6R is finished. 477 00:25:39,000 --> 00:25:43,120 I am glad to have been of service to science. 478 00:25:43,120 --> 00:25:49,560 But I just couldn't die without sharing the credit with Mr. Koblenz. 479 00:25:49,560 --> 00:25:55,240 I am sorry, truly sorry, that he could not be there with you today in his old capacity 480 00:25:55,240 --> 00:25:58,000 as manager of the hotel. 481 00:25:58,000 --> 00:26:02,600 But Mr. Fenwick saw fit to discharge Mr. Koblenz when it was brought to his attention that 482 00:26:02,600 --> 00:26:08,160 live rats had been permitted to spend the night in one of our rooms. 483 00:26:08,160 --> 00:26:21,400 And now, thank you for your attention and goodbye. 484 00:26:21,400 --> 00:26:23,440 I was just bringing your order, Mr. Brandt. 485 00:26:23,440 --> 00:26:25,360 Your friend just phoned and told me. 486 00:26:25,360 --> 00:26:27,880 If you'd only mentioned it before... 487 00:26:27,880 --> 00:26:28,880 Friend? 488 00:26:28,880 --> 00:26:29,880 Mm-hmm. 489 00:26:29,880 --> 00:26:30,880 Mr. Koblenz. 490 00:26:30,880 --> 00:26:31,880 Koblenz? 491 00:26:31,880 --> 00:26:35,560 But I didn't order anything. 492 00:26:35,560 --> 00:26:36,880 Oh, no, Mr. Brandt. 493 00:26:36,880 --> 00:26:38,320 That's no trouble. 494 00:26:38,320 --> 00:26:40,240 We know now about your little custom. 495 00:26:40,240 --> 00:26:44,480 If you want coffee at 315 every day, you shall have it. 496 00:26:44,480 --> 00:26:45,480 Come now. 497 00:26:45,480 --> 00:27:02,880 It's just 315. 498 00:27:02,880 --> 00:27:04,960 Suspense presented by Auto Light. 499 00:27:04,960 --> 00:27:08,200 And star, John Lund, in experiment 6R. 500 00:27:08,200 --> 00:27:10,920 John, do you mind if I ask you a question? 501 00:27:10,920 --> 00:27:12,360 Why, of course not, Harlow. 502 00:27:12,360 --> 00:27:13,360 Okay. 503 00:27:13,360 --> 00:27:15,000 What do you think of Auto Light resistor spark plugs? 504 00:27:15,000 --> 00:27:17,040 Well, Harlow, let's put it this way. 505 00:27:17,040 --> 00:27:18,040 Yes? 506 00:27:18,040 --> 00:27:20,400 I can't imagine you selling anything but the best. 507 00:27:20,400 --> 00:27:21,400 Oh, well, now I... 508 00:27:21,400 --> 00:27:23,480 Now, don't be coy, Wilcox. 509 00:27:23,480 --> 00:27:28,640 You just keep right on telling people that Auto Light resistor spark plugs are the best. 510 00:27:28,640 --> 00:27:29,640 Any more questions? 511 00:27:29,640 --> 00:27:30,640 No, John, and thank you. 512 00:27:30,640 --> 00:27:35,080 I'll also tell people that in its 28 plants from coast to coast, Auto Light makes more 513 00:27:35,080 --> 00:27:40,560 than 400 products for cars, trucks, airplanes, and boats, including complete electrical systems 514 00:27:40,560 --> 00:27:46,560 for many makes of America's finest cars, batteries, spark plugs, generators, starting motors, coils, 515 00:27:46,560 --> 00:27:51,120 distributors, all engineered to fit together perfectly, work together perfectly because 516 00:27:51,120 --> 00:27:53,000 they're a perfect team. 517 00:27:53,000 --> 00:27:57,320 So friends, don't accept electrical parts supposed to be just as good. 518 00:27:57,320 --> 00:28:01,560 Just on and get Auto Light original factory parts at your neighborhood service station, 519 00:28:01,560 --> 00:28:03,840 car dealer, garage, or repair shop. 520 00:28:03,840 --> 00:28:14,280 Remember, you're always right with Auto Light. 521 00:28:14,280 --> 00:28:18,320 Next Thursday for Suspense, Charles Lawton and June Havoc will be our stars. 522 00:28:18,320 --> 00:28:22,120 The play is called Blind Date, and it is, as we say... 523 00:28:22,120 --> 00:28:29,080 A tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. 524 00:28:29,080 --> 00:28:34,100 Tonight's Suspense play was produced and edited by William Spear and directed by Norman MacDonald. 525 00:28:34,100 --> 00:28:38,520 Music for Suspense is composed by Lucian Morrowek and conducted by Lud Gluskin. 526 00:28:38,520 --> 00:28:43,480 Experiment 6R was a radio play by Donald Stubbs and Harold Cobb. 527 00:28:43,480 --> 00:28:47,400 John Lund may currently be seen in the Hal Wallace production for Paramount, My Friend 528 00:28:47,400 --> 00:28:48,400 Irma. 529 00:28:48,400 --> 00:28:52,880 In the coming weeks, you will hear such stars as Van Johnson, Edward Arnold, and Betty Davis. 530 00:28:52,880 --> 00:28:57,960 Don't forget, next Thursday, same time, Auto Light will present Suspense, starring Charles 531 00:28:57,960 --> 00:28:58,960 Lawton and June Havoc. 532 00:28:58,960 --> 00:29:09,960 You can buy Auto Light resistor spark plugs, Auto Light staple batteries, Auto Light electrical 533 00:29:09,960 --> 00:29:12,360 parts at your neighborhood Auto Light dealers. 534 00:29:12,360 --> 00:29:14,360 Switch to Auto Light. 535 00:29:14,360 --> 00:29:16,360 Good night. 536 00:29:16,360 --> 00:29:18,800 This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System.