1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:10,720 Auto Light and its 98,000 dealers bring you Mr. Peter Lawford in tonight's presentation 2 00:00:10,720 --> 00:00:12,720 of Suspense. 3 00:00:12,720 --> 00:00:23,400 Tonight, Auto Light presents part one of the first detective novel ever written, a tale 4 00:00:23,400 --> 00:00:26,840 considered by many to be the greatest ever written. 5 00:00:26,840 --> 00:00:36,640 Wilkie Collins, the Moonstone, our star Mr. Peter Lawford. 6 00:00:36,640 --> 00:00:38,800 Last call, last call. 7 00:00:38,800 --> 00:00:40,440 Last call for what, Harlow? 8 00:00:40,440 --> 00:00:43,440 Why, last call for that winter car check, Hap. 9 00:00:43,440 --> 00:00:46,760 Not much more time to get the oil and grease changed, put in antifreeze. 10 00:00:46,760 --> 00:00:49,520 And check those important spark plugs, too. 11 00:00:49,520 --> 00:00:51,480 You said it, Johnny Plug Check. 12 00:00:51,480 --> 00:00:54,720 The spark plugs are the very heart of a car's ignition system. 13 00:00:54,720 --> 00:00:57,520 You've got to be right for quick cold weather starts. 14 00:00:57,520 --> 00:01:01,040 So have them checked by your nearest Auto Light spark plug dealer. 15 00:01:01,040 --> 00:01:03,080 He's an expert on cleaning and adjustment. 16 00:01:03,080 --> 00:01:06,180 But suppose those spark plugs are worn out, Harlow. 17 00:01:06,180 --> 00:01:10,280 Why then, Hap, your Auto Light spark plug dealer will heartily and happily suggest a 18 00:01:10,280 --> 00:01:15,420 set of world famous Auto Light spark plugs, like the amazing Double Life Resistor spark 19 00:01:15,420 --> 00:01:16,420 plug. 20 00:01:16,420 --> 00:01:21,120 So get those spark plugs checked tomorrow and you'll avoid cold weather sorrow. 21 00:01:21,120 --> 00:01:24,200 And do it at your Auto Light spark plug dealers. 22 00:01:24,200 --> 00:01:29,400 To quickly locate him, phone Western Union by number and ask for operator 25. 23 00:01:29,400 --> 00:01:34,640 And remember, from bumper to tail light, you're always right with Auto Light. 24 00:01:34,640 --> 00:01:40,360 And now, Auto Light presents part one of Wilkie Collins' The Moonstone, starring Mr. Peter 25 00:01:40,360 --> 00:01:55,160 Lawford, hoping once again to keep you in suspense. 26 00:01:55,160 --> 00:02:04,320 Look, my lord, there's the house. 27 00:02:04,320 --> 00:02:05,880 Silence, boy. 28 00:02:05,880 --> 00:02:06,880 My eyes behold. 29 00:02:06,880 --> 00:02:09,880 Has your chosen a place, my brother? 30 00:02:09,880 --> 00:02:14,560 Beneath these trees, my brother, are we observed? 31 00:02:14,560 --> 00:02:15,560 No. 32 00:02:15,560 --> 00:02:16,560 Begin it. 33 00:02:16,560 --> 00:02:20,560 Boy, look to my eyes. 34 00:02:20,560 --> 00:02:22,560 Please, please, not again. 35 00:02:22,560 --> 00:02:24,240 Please don't, please. 36 00:02:24,240 --> 00:02:26,240 Look to my eyes. 37 00:02:26,240 --> 00:02:30,640 Yes, my lord. 38 00:02:30,640 --> 00:02:37,160 In the name of the regent of the night, lord of the world, whose arms embrace the four 39 00:02:37,160 --> 00:02:46,600 corners of earth, your servants, oh lord, dedicated to end the vile sacrilege of unbelievers, 40 00:02:46,600 --> 00:02:55,240 dedicated to restore what is rightfully yours, use this body we offer you. 41 00:02:55,240 --> 00:02:59,560 Give us the power of your sight. 42 00:02:59,560 --> 00:03:02,320 You heard him, my brother. 43 00:03:02,320 --> 00:03:11,320 He the Englishman who has returned from foreign past. 44 00:03:11,320 --> 00:03:15,720 Is it to this house and no other he will travel today? 45 00:03:15,720 --> 00:03:19,200 To this house and no other. 46 00:03:19,200 --> 00:03:22,240 And he brings it with him? 47 00:03:22,240 --> 00:03:27,200 Yes, he brings it. 48 00:03:27,200 --> 00:03:33,040 And as the sun sets, he will enter the house? 49 00:03:33,040 --> 00:03:36,040 I can't see. 50 00:03:36,040 --> 00:03:37,040 See? 51 00:03:37,040 --> 00:03:38,040 Tell us. 52 00:03:38,040 --> 00:03:39,040 I can't. 53 00:03:39,040 --> 00:03:40,040 The elements rises in my head. 54 00:03:40,040 --> 00:03:41,040 I can't see. 55 00:03:41,040 --> 00:03:42,040 This is enough, my brother. 56 00:03:42,040 --> 00:03:43,040 He will come and he will bring in wisdom. 57 00:03:43,040 --> 00:04:11,320 It was in May of 1848 that I received news of the death of my uncle, Colonel John Hearncastle. 58 00:04:11,320 --> 00:04:15,680 The letter caught up to me in Italy with instructions that I return to England and perform my duties 59 00:04:15,680 --> 00:04:19,040 as executor of my uncle's will. 60 00:04:19,040 --> 00:04:23,440 Not having seen my uncle since childhood, I thought neither one way or the other about 61 00:04:23,440 --> 00:04:24,440 his death. 62 00:04:24,440 --> 00:04:27,440 But I remembered the story. 63 00:04:27,440 --> 00:04:31,560 A black sheep with a strong dash of savage. 64 00:04:31,560 --> 00:04:35,280 He had fought in India and come home with a vile reputation which had closed the doors 65 00:04:35,280 --> 00:04:38,160 of all his relations against him. 66 00:04:38,160 --> 00:04:43,040 His sister, Lady Julia Verinda, had taken the lead in this respect. 67 00:04:43,040 --> 00:04:46,320 Colonel John never set foot in her great Yorkshire house. 68 00:04:46,320 --> 00:04:51,440 Naturally, this all went through my mind as I entered the office of our family lawyer, 69 00:04:51,440 --> 00:04:52,440 Mr. Matthew Brown. 70 00:04:52,440 --> 00:04:53,440 Well, very well, Mr. Franklin Blake. 71 00:04:53,440 --> 00:04:54,440 You're looking fit, quite fit. 72 00:04:54,440 --> 00:04:55,440 Thank you, sir. 73 00:04:55,440 --> 00:04:56,440 You're looking well yourself. 74 00:04:56,440 --> 00:04:57,440 Let's see now. 75 00:04:57,440 --> 00:04:58,440 How many years has it been? 76 00:04:58,440 --> 00:04:59,440 Oh, five at least, sir. 77 00:04:59,440 --> 00:05:00,440 Five. 78 00:05:00,440 --> 00:05:01,440 My, my, my. 79 00:05:01,440 --> 00:05:02,440 How time flies. 80 00:05:02,440 --> 00:05:12,080 Now, sir, now, this letter Colonel Hearncastle's with. 81 00:05:12,080 --> 00:05:13,560 You're acquainted with your duties? 82 00:05:13,560 --> 00:05:14,560 Yes, sir. 83 00:05:14,560 --> 00:05:19,320 I've signed papers and there's a birthday gift left to my cousin, Rachel Brimber. 84 00:05:19,320 --> 00:05:20,320 I'm to take it to her. 85 00:05:20,320 --> 00:05:21,320 Very good, sir. 86 00:05:21,320 --> 00:05:22,320 Now to work. 87 00:05:22,320 --> 00:05:27,720 First clause provides for support and safekeeping for his animals, cats and dogs and horses 88 00:05:27,720 --> 00:05:30,280 he seemed to prefer for human company. 89 00:05:30,280 --> 00:05:33,520 This paper covers that, you'll sign here. 90 00:05:33,520 --> 00:05:34,960 All right, sir. 91 00:05:34,960 --> 00:05:39,560 Second clause directs his fortune to be used wholly for the establishment of a professorship 92 00:05:39,560 --> 00:05:41,680 of chemistry at Cameron University. 93 00:05:41,680 --> 00:05:45,160 Rumours were that Colonel was addicted to opium. 94 00:05:45,160 --> 00:05:48,320 I suppose that explains the chemistry. 95 00:05:48,320 --> 00:05:49,680 Sign here. 96 00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:52,360 Yes, I've heard he took runs. 97 00:05:52,360 --> 00:05:56,000 The third clause you might as well read yourself. 98 00:05:56,000 --> 00:05:57,800 Read from here. 99 00:05:57,800 --> 00:05:58,800 Right. 100 00:05:58,800 --> 00:06:04,000 Thirdly and lastly, I give him bequeathed to my niece, Rachel Brimber, only child of 101 00:06:04,000 --> 00:06:06,560 my sister, Lady Julia Brimber. 102 00:06:06,560 --> 00:06:09,800 A yellow diamond? 103 00:06:09,800 --> 00:06:12,920 Belonging to me and known in the East as the Moonstone. 104 00:06:12,920 --> 00:06:15,920 Mr. Brath, a diamond? 105 00:06:15,920 --> 00:06:20,000 Oh, yes, there's a diamond of it. 106 00:06:20,000 --> 00:06:21,000 Read on. 107 00:06:21,000 --> 00:06:27,360 That said diamond should be given to my niece, Rachel, on her first birthday after my death, 108 00:06:27,360 --> 00:06:31,680 subject to the condition that her mother, Lady Verinda, be living at the time, and that 109 00:06:31,680 --> 00:06:36,880 my diamond be given into the hands of my niece by my nephew, Franklin Blake, in the presence 110 00:06:36,880 --> 00:06:40,240 of my sister, that said Julia Verinda. 111 00:06:40,240 --> 00:06:45,120 This I do in free forgiveness of my sister's conduct in closing her doors to me and publicly 112 00:06:45,120 --> 00:06:48,800 injuring my reputation as an officer and a gentleman during my lifetime. 113 00:06:48,800 --> 00:06:52,480 And the most generous forgiveness it turned out to be. 114 00:06:52,480 --> 00:06:54,280 The wicked Colonel's diamond. 115 00:06:54,280 --> 00:06:55,280 You have it here? 116 00:06:55,280 --> 00:06:56,280 No, no, the bank. 117 00:06:56,280 --> 00:06:58,600 Been in the bank vault for years. 118 00:06:58,600 --> 00:07:03,520 At one time the Colonel hinted of a conspiracy against him, claimed the stone was some sort 119 00:07:03,520 --> 00:07:10,160 of sacred Indian jewel, part of a four-handed moon garland, which to any serious person 120 00:07:10,160 --> 00:07:12,280 sounds like drug addiction. 121 00:07:12,280 --> 00:07:14,560 Is this Moonstone really worth it? 122 00:07:14,560 --> 00:07:18,680 We've had three appraisals, cost quite a stir, the size and colour. 123 00:07:18,680 --> 00:07:23,080 There's a flaw, but the least value put on the stone is 30,000 pounds. 124 00:07:23,080 --> 00:07:24,080 Thirty thousand? 125 00:07:24,080 --> 00:07:25,080 What an old diamond. 126 00:07:25,080 --> 00:07:32,480 There was also a paper instructing that if he died mysteriously, which he did not, the 127 00:07:32,480 --> 00:07:38,400 jewel was to be sent secretly to a diamond cutter in Amsterdam and cut up into several 128 00:07:38,400 --> 00:07:39,760 smaller stones. 129 00:07:39,760 --> 00:07:42,480 That way he thought to destroy its identity. 130 00:07:42,480 --> 00:07:43,480 Strange. 131 00:07:43,480 --> 00:07:45,320 The Colonel knew its worth. 132 00:07:45,320 --> 00:07:46,320 Why? 133 00:07:46,320 --> 00:07:49,800 Nothing strange, sir, when it comes to drugs. 134 00:07:49,800 --> 00:07:52,280 When will you be leaving for Yorkshire, Mr. Blake? 135 00:07:52,280 --> 00:07:57,280 Tomorrow afternoon, Lady Julia's invited me down to stay for two weeks before the birthday. 136 00:07:57,280 --> 00:07:59,520 You'll carry 30,000 pounds. 137 00:07:59,520 --> 00:08:00,520 Take care, my boy. 138 00:08:00,520 --> 00:08:01,520 I shall, Mr. Brown. 139 00:08:01,520 --> 00:08:05,920 You know, somehow I wish that I'd seen more of the Colonel. 140 00:08:05,920 --> 00:08:06,920 Heavens no sir. 141 00:08:06,920 --> 00:08:11,400 Contrast is so, but he was truly a wretched man. 142 00:08:11,400 --> 00:08:13,480 Goodbye, Mr. Blake. 143 00:08:13,480 --> 00:08:24,600 My regards to Lady Brindga, Miss Richard. 144 00:08:24,600 --> 00:08:28,480 Early the next morning I went to the bank, presented my authorization and was led to 145 00:08:28,480 --> 00:08:30,520 the strong room. 146 00:08:30,520 --> 00:08:35,920 I unlocked the family vault and saw a little wooden box. 147 00:08:35,920 --> 00:08:41,420 I slid open the cover and nestled in cotton with the stone. 148 00:08:41,420 --> 00:08:45,360 Even in that dim light, their stream had burst like the harvest moon. 149 00:08:45,360 --> 00:08:52,360 It drew my eyes into a yellow deep as unfathomable as the heavens themselves. 150 00:08:52,360 --> 00:08:59,120 A strange, eerie feeling began to grip me, almost hypnotic. 151 00:08:59,120 --> 00:09:02,480 I had to force myself to close the lid. 152 00:09:02,480 --> 00:09:05,720 I put the box carefully in an inside pocket, left the bank and plunged into the street 153 00:09:05,720 --> 00:09:09,560 crowd reaching the station just in time. 154 00:09:09,560 --> 00:09:30,600 Towards noon I arrived at the quiet country town of Frizzingall, feeling almost my natural 155 00:09:30,600 --> 00:09:31,600 self. 156 00:09:31,600 --> 00:09:37,200 For two weeks the moonstone was going to be my responsibility and I prudently decided 157 00:09:37,200 --> 00:09:40,080 to place it in the local bank. 158 00:09:40,080 --> 00:09:44,120 I then hired a carriage and was driven out to the great Brindga house sitting high on 159 00:09:44,120 --> 00:09:47,160 the Yorkshire coast near the sea. 160 00:09:47,160 --> 00:09:53,080 The place had practically been a second home my youth and I felt a warm, comfortable sense 161 00:09:53,080 --> 00:09:54,080 of return. 162 00:09:54,080 --> 00:09:59,040 Mr. Franklin, sir, won't you come in please? 163 00:09:59,040 --> 00:10:00,840 My lady and Miss Rachel are out, sir. 164 00:10:00,840 --> 00:10:02,800 We weren't expecting you till this evening. 165 00:10:02,800 --> 00:10:04,600 I had a sudden change in plans. 166 00:10:04,600 --> 00:10:05,600 I hope it's no bother. 167 00:10:05,600 --> 00:10:06,600 Oh, no bother, sir. 168 00:10:06,600 --> 00:10:11,240 Only my father, he was so looking forward to meeting you at the station. 169 00:10:11,240 --> 00:10:12,240 Your father? 170 00:10:12,240 --> 00:10:14,200 Betridge, sir, the family steward. 171 00:10:14,200 --> 00:10:17,720 Oh, good old Betridge, of course. 172 00:10:17,720 --> 00:10:18,720 So you're his daughter. 173 00:10:18,720 --> 00:10:21,400 Well, you were just a bet... 174 00:10:21,400 --> 00:10:22,400 Where is he? 175 00:10:22,400 --> 00:10:23,400 Down the beach walk, sir. 176 00:10:23,400 --> 00:10:25,520 The place they call Shivering Sand. 177 00:10:25,520 --> 00:10:27,800 He went to fetch one of the maid's lunch. 178 00:10:27,800 --> 00:10:28,800 That ugly place? 179 00:10:28,800 --> 00:10:29,800 I'll surprise him. 180 00:10:29,800 --> 00:10:30,800 Mr. Franklin? 181 00:10:30,800 --> 00:10:35,800 Pardon, sir, but do you know any travelling jugglers? 182 00:10:35,800 --> 00:10:36,800 What? 183 00:10:36,800 --> 00:10:37,800 Indian jugglers, sir. 184 00:10:37,800 --> 00:10:41,240 They came to the house to show us their tricks. 185 00:10:41,240 --> 00:10:44,640 I overheard them talking about a gentleman from foreign past coming here. 186 00:10:44,640 --> 00:10:46,680 And you're just that from the continent. 187 00:10:46,680 --> 00:10:50,160 His father drove them off because he thought they had snakes. 188 00:10:50,160 --> 00:10:53,160 No, no, I don't know any jugglers. 189 00:10:53,160 --> 00:10:54,160 Excuse me, sir. 190 00:10:54,160 --> 00:10:55,160 Father said it was silly. 191 00:10:55,160 --> 00:11:09,720 The beach walk led to one of the ugliest little bays on the Yorkshire coast. 192 00:11:09,720 --> 00:11:12,720 It was quicksand. 193 00:11:12,720 --> 00:11:19,680 At the turn of the tide, the whole face shivered and trembled in a most gruesome manner. 194 00:11:19,680 --> 00:11:23,120 Rounding the dunes, I saw two figures watching the tide. 195 00:11:23,120 --> 00:11:27,400 A woman and the plump, friendly form of old Betridge. 196 00:11:27,400 --> 00:11:30,400 Why do you visit this horrid place? 197 00:11:30,400 --> 00:11:33,400 I'm drawn to it, Mr. Betridge. 198 00:11:33,400 --> 00:11:35,400 Something draws me. 199 00:11:35,400 --> 00:11:36,400 Sand. 200 00:11:36,400 --> 00:11:38,400 The way it shivers. 201 00:11:38,400 --> 00:11:39,400 Betridge! 202 00:11:39,400 --> 00:11:40,400 What? 203 00:11:40,400 --> 00:11:41,400 Who is it? 204 00:11:41,400 --> 00:11:43,400 Don't you recognize me? 205 00:11:43,400 --> 00:11:46,680 My lord, this is Mr. Franklin. 206 00:11:46,680 --> 00:11:47,680 How are you, Betridge? 207 00:11:47,680 --> 00:11:50,680 How a fine boy, all grown to a man. 208 00:11:50,680 --> 00:11:51,680 Rosanna. 209 00:11:51,680 --> 00:11:53,280 This is our Mr. Franklin. 210 00:11:53,280 --> 00:11:55,800 Yes, I know Mr. Franklin. 211 00:11:55,800 --> 00:11:56,800 You know me? 212 00:11:56,800 --> 00:11:57,800 Yes, sir. 213 00:11:57,800 --> 00:11:58,800 From your pictures in the house. 214 00:11:58,800 --> 00:11:59,800 Excuse me. 215 00:11:59,800 --> 00:12:00,800 Please excuse me. 216 00:12:00,800 --> 00:12:01,800 That's an odd girl. 217 00:12:01,800 --> 00:12:02,800 Rosanna's our newest maid. 218 00:12:02,800 --> 00:12:03,800 She's a bit strange. 219 00:12:03,800 --> 00:12:04,800 Mark it down to them. 220 00:12:04,800 --> 00:12:05,800 I must say you're looking to pink, sir. 221 00:12:05,800 --> 00:12:06,800 Thank you. 222 00:12:06,800 --> 00:12:07,800 Tell me something, Betridge. 223 00:12:07,800 --> 00:12:08,800 Anything, sir. 224 00:12:08,800 --> 00:12:09,800 What? 225 00:12:09,800 --> 00:12:10,800 About the Indian jugglers we have. 226 00:12:10,800 --> 00:12:11,800 I met your daughter in the morning. 227 00:12:11,800 --> 00:12:12,800 I was wondering if you'd like to meet her. 228 00:12:12,800 --> 00:12:13,800 I'd like to meet her. 229 00:12:13,800 --> 00:12:14,800 I'd like to meet her. 230 00:12:14,800 --> 00:12:15,800 I'd like to meet her. 231 00:12:15,800 --> 00:12:16,800 I'd like to meet her. 232 00:12:16,800 --> 00:12:17,800 I'd like to meet her. 233 00:12:17,800 --> 00:12:18,800 I'd like to meet her. 234 00:12:18,800 --> 00:12:19,800 I'd like to meet her. 235 00:12:19,800 --> 00:12:25,640 I'd like to meet her. 236 00:12:25,640 --> 00:12:30,180 I looked around. 237 00:12:30,180 --> 00:12:42,800 She was when she was a little boy. 238 00:12:42,800 --> 00:12:43,800 See. 239 00:12:43,800 --> 00:12:44,800 I see. 240 00:12:44,800 --> 00:12:47,800 You've done me wrong, sir. 241 00:12:47,800 --> 00:12:48,800 No. 242 00:12:48,800 --> 00:12:51,800 No, not really, I'm sure. 243 00:12:51,800 --> 00:12:55,800 Come along. 244 00:12:55,800 --> 00:13:00,800 Perhaps it was silly. 245 00:13:00,800 --> 00:13:02,800 A conjure trick. 246 00:13:02,800 --> 00:13:07,800 But I felt rather clever for having put the diamond back in a bank. 247 00:13:07,800 --> 00:13:11,800 Still, it had to be coincidence, and reaching the house, I resolved to keep my imaginings 248 00:13:11,800 --> 00:13:12,800 to myself. 249 00:13:12,800 --> 00:13:18,800 Lady Julia and Rachel weren't expected home for sundown, so I went to my room to unpack. 250 00:13:18,800 --> 00:13:22,800 I lay down on the bed to rest, and I must have dozed off. 251 00:13:22,800 --> 00:13:27,800 When I opened my eyes, it was dark. 252 00:13:27,800 --> 00:13:29,800 Who's there? 253 00:13:29,800 --> 00:13:30,800 It's me, sir. 254 00:13:30,800 --> 00:13:31,800 Rosanna. 255 00:13:31,800 --> 00:13:32,800 What are you doing? 256 00:13:32,800 --> 00:13:34,800 Just coming to wake you, sir. 257 00:13:34,800 --> 00:13:35,800 It's near dinner. 258 00:13:35,800 --> 00:13:37,800 Good Lord, and I haven't even unpacked. 259 00:13:37,800 --> 00:13:40,800 I did it while you slept, sir. 260 00:13:40,800 --> 00:13:41,800 It's the dinner bell. 261 00:13:41,800 --> 00:13:43,800 Blast, I haven't got time to change. 262 00:13:43,800 --> 00:13:44,800 How do I look? 263 00:13:44,800 --> 00:13:47,800 You are so elegant, Mr. Franklin. 264 00:13:47,800 --> 00:13:54,800 Thank you, Rosanna. 265 00:13:54,800 --> 00:13:55,800 Franklin? 266 00:13:55,800 --> 00:13:57,800 Yes, Lady Julia. 267 00:13:57,800 --> 00:14:00,800 Franklin, dear boy, so good to have you back. 268 00:14:00,800 --> 00:14:02,800 It's good to be back, Lady Julia. 269 00:14:02,800 --> 00:14:03,800 You look exactly the same. 270 00:14:03,800 --> 00:14:05,800 Oh, you're kind, Franklin. 271 00:14:05,800 --> 00:14:08,800 But you, I don't think I'd have recognized you. 272 00:14:08,800 --> 00:14:09,800 I would. 273 00:14:09,800 --> 00:14:11,800 I would have recognized you, Cousin Franklin. 274 00:14:11,800 --> 00:14:13,800 Rachel, dear. 275 00:14:13,800 --> 00:14:15,800 This is Rachel. 276 00:14:15,800 --> 00:14:18,800 This is Rachel, the little girl whose hair you so delighted in pulling, 277 00:14:18,800 --> 00:14:20,800 and put frogs down her back. 278 00:14:20,800 --> 00:14:22,800 And got kicked in the shins for it. 279 00:14:22,800 --> 00:14:24,800 I can't believe it. 280 00:14:24,800 --> 00:14:25,800 That you did those things? 281 00:14:25,800 --> 00:14:26,800 Why, Cousin Franklin. 282 00:14:26,800 --> 00:14:30,800 Well, no, I mean you're beautiful. 283 00:14:30,800 --> 00:14:31,800 Really, sir? 284 00:14:31,800 --> 00:14:32,800 Thank you, sir. 285 00:14:32,800 --> 00:14:34,800 And you've grown handsome. 286 00:14:34,800 --> 00:14:35,800 Now we're even. 287 00:14:35,800 --> 00:14:39,800 Rachel, now come to dinner, you too. 288 00:14:39,800 --> 00:14:46,800 Franklin, you must tell us all about the continent. 289 00:14:46,800 --> 00:14:48,800 And there it began. 290 00:14:48,800 --> 00:14:52,800 Rachel was undoubtedly the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. 291 00:14:52,800 --> 00:14:55,800 I couldn't take my eyes off her. 292 00:14:55,800 --> 00:14:59,800 In the days that followed, I found myself trying to spend every waking moment with her. 293 00:14:59,800 --> 00:15:02,800 Recalling our days as children. 294 00:15:02,800 --> 00:15:04,800 Walking, riding. 295 00:15:04,800 --> 00:15:10,800 I even thought of bird watching. 296 00:15:10,800 --> 00:15:14,800 By the second week, I was very deeply in love. 297 00:15:14,800 --> 00:15:15,800 Franklin. 298 00:15:15,800 --> 00:15:16,800 Where are you? 299 00:15:16,800 --> 00:15:18,800 In here, my sitting room. 300 00:15:18,800 --> 00:15:20,800 What on earth is this? 301 00:15:20,800 --> 00:15:21,800 I'm painting. 302 00:15:21,800 --> 00:15:24,800 This door needed doing, so I'm doing it. 303 00:15:24,800 --> 00:15:26,800 I know, but cupids and birds. 304 00:15:26,800 --> 00:15:27,800 There, all done. 305 00:15:27,800 --> 00:15:30,800 Now don't smudge it, it's wet. 306 00:15:30,800 --> 00:15:32,800 This one's supposed to be you. 307 00:15:32,800 --> 00:15:33,800 What do you think? 308 00:15:33,800 --> 00:15:36,800 It's not quite my nose. 309 00:15:36,800 --> 00:15:37,800 Who's this fancy one here? 310 00:15:37,800 --> 00:15:39,800 Oh, that's Godfrey Abelwhite. 311 00:15:39,800 --> 00:15:42,800 Cotton Godfrey, don't you remember him? 312 00:15:42,800 --> 00:15:44,800 Dashing Godfrey. 313 00:15:44,800 --> 00:15:46,800 Oh yes, the ladies' man. 314 00:15:46,800 --> 00:15:48,800 Works with women's committees or something, doesn't he? 315 00:15:48,800 --> 00:15:50,800 He'll be here for the party tonight. 316 00:15:50,800 --> 00:15:51,800 All the Abelwhites. 317 00:15:51,800 --> 00:15:53,800 Party? 318 00:15:53,800 --> 00:15:56,800 Franklin, today's my birthday. 319 00:15:56,800 --> 00:15:58,800 Oh, good Lord, Rachel. 320 00:15:58,800 --> 00:16:01,800 Stupid, happy birthday. 321 00:16:01,800 --> 00:16:02,800 Thank you, sir. 322 00:16:02,800 --> 00:16:04,800 I'm dying to know what it is. 323 00:16:04,800 --> 00:16:05,800 What? 324 00:16:05,800 --> 00:16:07,800 The black sheep colonel's gift. 325 00:16:07,800 --> 00:16:09,800 Mother said it wouldn't be anything nice. 326 00:16:09,800 --> 00:16:11,800 Well, you did bring it. 327 00:16:11,800 --> 00:16:13,800 Yes, yes. 328 00:16:13,800 --> 00:16:14,800 Rachel, what time is it? 329 00:16:14,800 --> 00:16:15,800 Almost four. 330 00:16:15,800 --> 00:16:16,800 I've got to do something. 331 00:16:16,800 --> 00:16:18,800 There's just time. 332 00:16:23,800 --> 00:16:25,800 Not having mind for anything but Rachel, 333 00:16:25,800 --> 00:16:26,800 I'd even forgotten the day. 334 00:16:26,800 --> 00:16:28,800 I rode full speed to Frenzengold, 335 00:16:28,800 --> 00:16:30,800 took the diamond from a bank, 336 00:16:30,800 --> 00:16:32,800 and returned all dust and lather. 337 00:16:32,800 --> 00:16:34,800 I bathed, hopped into my party clothes, 338 00:16:34,800 --> 00:16:37,800 and made it downstairs just as the first guests arrived. 339 00:16:37,800 --> 00:16:39,800 How do you do, everybody? 340 00:16:39,800 --> 00:16:40,800 The Abelwhites. 341 00:16:40,800 --> 00:16:41,800 Mr. and Mrs. 342 00:16:41,800 --> 00:16:42,800 Twin daughters. 343 00:16:42,800 --> 00:16:43,800 Hello. 344 00:16:43,800 --> 00:16:45,800 And ladies' committee man Godfrey. 345 00:16:45,800 --> 00:16:47,800 Cousin Franklin. 346 00:16:47,800 --> 00:16:48,800 Lovely to see you. 347 00:16:48,800 --> 00:16:49,800 Oh, pardon me, cousin. 348 00:16:49,800 --> 00:16:50,800 There's Rachel. 349 00:16:50,800 --> 00:16:52,800 Lovely to see you. 350 00:16:52,800 --> 00:16:56,800 He went to Rachel and very neatly monopolized her attentions. 351 00:16:56,800 --> 00:16:58,800 The rest of the guests arrived, 352 00:16:58,800 --> 00:17:01,800 and then, thank heaven, it was time to open the presents. 353 00:17:01,800 --> 00:17:03,800 From the late Colonel Herne Castle. 354 00:17:03,800 --> 00:17:04,800 A box. 355 00:17:04,800 --> 00:17:05,800 No, Rachel, not that first. 356 00:17:05,800 --> 00:17:06,800 Oh, don't be silly, Mother. 357 00:17:06,800 --> 00:17:08,800 It won't bite. 358 00:17:08,800 --> 00:17:10,800 Oh. 359 00:17:10,800 --> 00:17:12,800 Oh, my, look. 360 00:17:12,800 --> 00:17:14,800 Just look. 361 00:17:14,800 --> 00:17:15,800 Exquisite. 362 00:17:15,800 --> 00:17:16,800 It's simply exquisite. 363 00:17:16,800 --> 00:17:18,800 Mother, look at it. 364 00:17:18,800 --> 00:17:19,800 No. 365 00:17:19,800 --> 00:17:20,800 Put it down, Rachel. 366 00:17:20,800 --> 00:17:22,800 It means no good. 367 00:17:24,800 --> 00:17:26,800 I looked at Lady Julia. 368 00:17:26,800 --> 00:17:30,800 Her eyes, set in an ash-white face, were riveted on the diamond. 369 00:17:30,800 --> 00:17:32,800 She quickly recovered her composure, 370 00:17:32,800 --> 00:17:35,800 but underneath I saw the same uneasiness I, too, had felt 371 00:17:35,800 --> 00:17:38,800 when I first saw the Moonstown. 372 00:17:38,800 --> 00:17:41,800 Then I knew why the Colonel's gesture of forgiveness 373 00:17:41,800 --> 00:17:44,800 had left the diamond to Rachel. 374 00:17:44,800 --> 00:17:49,800 She was fascinated, but Lady Julia was repelled. 375 00:17:49,800 --> 00:17:52,800 She could have thrown it as far as she could. 376 00:17:52,800 --> 00:17:53,800 Oh, look, everyone. 377 00:17:53,800 --> 00:17:55,800 Out on the terrace. 378 00:17:55,800 --> 00:17:58,800 The whole party turned. 379 00:17:58,800 --> 00:18:04,800 Standing on the terrace were two Indian jugglers and a boy. 380 00:18:20,800 --> 00:18:23,800 Auto Light is bringing you Mr. Peter Lawford in Wilkie Collins' 381 00:18:23,800 --> 00:18:27,800 The Moonstown, tonight's presentation in radio's 382 00:18:27,800 --> 00:18:31,800 outstanding theater of thrills, Suspense. 383 00:18:41,800 --> 00:18:45,800 Say, Harlow, who is this Johnny Plugjack, anyway? 384 00:18:45,800 --> 00:18:48,800 Well, you might call him the motorist's conscience, Hap. 385 00:18:48,800 --> 00:18:52,800 He's here to remind us to beat winter by having the oil and grease changed, 386 00:18:52,800 --> 00:18:54,800 putting in antifreeze. 387 00:18:54,800 --> 00:18:58,800 And the most important thing to do is check the spark plugs, too. 388 00:18:58,800 --> 00:18:59,800 You sure should. 389 00:18:59,800 --> 00:19:02,800 The spark plugs are the heart of a car's ignition system. 390 00:19:02,800 --> 00:19:06,800 When they're right, your chances of starting every time are better than ever. 391 00:19:06,800 --> 00:19:08,800 So have your spark plugs checked. 392 00:19:08,800 --> 00:19:11,800 If replacements are needed, your auto light spark plug dealer 393 00:19:11,800 --> 00:19:15,800 will recommend auto light spark plugs like the double life resistor spark plug 394 00:19:15,800 --> 00:19:18,800 that gives you smoother performance. 395 00:19:18,800 --> 00:19:23,800 And the resistor spark plug is only one of a complete line of auto light spark plugs 396 00:19:23,800 --> 00:19:26,800 ignition engineered for every use. 397 00:19:26,800 --> 00:19:28,800 So before winter hits hard... 398 00:19:28,800 --> 00:19:32,800 Check those important spark plugs. Don't delay. 399 00:19:32,800 --> 00:19:35,800 You should have done it yesterday. 400 00:19:35,800 --> 00:19:40,800 Yes, see, your auto light spark plug dealer, because from bumper to tail light, 401 00:19:40,800 --> 00:19:42,800 you're always right with auto light. 402 00:19:42,800 --> 00:19:46,800 And now, auto light brings back to our Hollywood sound stage 403 00:19:46,800 --> 00:19:52,800 Mr. Peter Laufford in Elliot Lewis's production of Wilkie Collins' The Moonstone, 404 00:19:52,800 --> 00:19:55,800 a tale well calculated to keep you in... 405 00:19:55,800 --> 00:19:58,800 Suspense! 406 00:19:58,800 --> 00:20:02,800 As if from nowhere, the Indians appeared on the terrace. 407 00:20:02,800 --> 00:20:05,800 The party streamed out to watch them. 408 00:20:05,800 --> 00:20:09,800 They were doing some ridiculously simple tricks and not doing them too well. 409 00:20:09,800 --> 00:20:13,800 Rachel was standing quite near them. I went to her quickly. 410 00:20:13,800 --> 00:20:15,800 Where on earth did they come from? 411 00:20:15,800 --> 00:20:17,800 I don't know. 412 00:20:17,800 --> 00:20:26,860 They were coming from the 413 00:20:26,860 --> 00:20:28,860 The Moonstone. 414 00:20:28,860 --> 00:20:30,860 Where on earth did they come from? 415 00:20:30,860 --> 00:20:32,860 Rachel, where's the diamond? 416 00:20:32,860 --> 00:20:34,860 Right here in my hand, see? 417 00:20:34,860 --> 00:20:36,860 Don't hold it up like that. 418 00:20:36,860 --> 00:20:38,860 Well, they've stopped. Is that all? 419 00:20:38,860 --> 00:20:41,860 All right, you fellows, here's money. Now be off with you. 420 00:20:41,860 --> 00:20:43,860 Thank you, sir. 421 00:20:43,860 --> 00:20:46,860 Really, there wasn't very much to it. 422 00:20:46,860 --> 00:20:52,860 They picked up the money, not at all eagerly, and went off down the drive. 423 00:20:52,860 --> 00:20:57,860 They were trying to draw from it what the Colonel believed of the Moonstone was true. 424 00:20:57,860 --> 00:21:00,860 It was not forgiveness, but his vengeance. 425 00:21:00,860 --> 00:21:04,860 And I had been the instrument to put it in Rachel's hands. 426 00:21:10,860 --> 00:21:15,860 The dinner was quite gay, except for Lady Julia, who seemed very solemn, and myself. 427 00:21:15,860 --> 00:21:20,860 The talk turned around the diamond, Cousin Godfrey leading the abominable joke. 428 00:21:20,860 --> 00:21:26,860 After all, it's only carbon, you know. Just carbon. 429 00:21:26,860 --> 00:21:35,860 We should heat it over a fire, Miss Rachel, expose it to a current of air, and poof, no more anxiety about it safekeeping. 430 00:21:35,860 --> 00:21:40,860 Not funny, Mr. Blake? 431 00:21:40,860 --> 00:21:43,860 No, Dr. Candy, it didn't strike me. 432 00:21:43,860 --> 00:21:49,860 I suspect you haven't been sleeping well. You should let me give you a course in medicine. 433 00:21:49,860 --> 00:21:54,860 In my opinion, Dr. Candy, your course in medicine and groping in the dark are one and the same thing. 434 00:21:54,860 --> 00:21:59,860 Ah, but you're groping for sleep, sir. I could help. 435 00:21:59,860 --> 00:22:03,860 I've heard of the blind eating the blind, doctor. Now I know what it means. 436 00:22:03,860 --> 00:22:06,860 Oh, no, really, sir. If I may say... 437 00:22:06,860 --> 00:22:09,860 Gentlemen, ladies, please, shall we continue in the drawing room? 438 00:22:09,860 --> 00:22:22,860 Better, Randy and Soda for the gentlemen. 439 00:22:22,860 --> 00:22:26,860 We adjourned to the first note of the seasonal rainstorm. 440 00:22:26,860 --> 00:22:32,860 I hoped to reach Rachel, but Cousin Godfrey made his move quicker and was already swarming over this charm. 441 00:22:32,860 --> 00:22:39,860 He was staying the night, and since I felt a great urge to kick him, I prudently kept to myself. 442 00:22:39,860 --> 00:22:44,860 The approaching storm prodded the guests home early before the roads turned a mile. 443 00:22:44,860 --> 00:22:47,860 Dr. Candy was the last to leave. 444 00:22:47,860 --> 00:22:53,860 Storm's the least of my worries. A doctor's skin is waterproof, you know. 445 00:22:53,860 --> 00:22:54,860 Good night, Mr. Blake. 446 00:22:54,860 --> 00:22:55,860 Good night, doctor. 447 00:22:55,860 --> 00:23:03,860 If you're troubled sleeping tonight, try a brandy and soda. Good night. 448 00:23:03,860 --> 00:23:07,860 Well, that's that. I think I'll bid you all good night myself. 449 00:23:07,860 --> 00:23:08,860 No, not yet, Rachel. 450 00:23:08,860 --> 00:23:09,860 Oh, no, not yet. 451 00:23:09,860 --> 00:23:11,860 Rachel, where are you going to keep the diamond? 452 00:23:11,860 --> 00:23:13,860 The cabinet in my sitting room. 453 00:23:13,860 --> 00:23:15,860 My dear, but it has no lock on it. 454 00:23:15,860 --> 00:23:18,860 Mother, is this a hotel? We've no thieves. 455 00:23:18,860 --> 00:23:20,860 I want you to come to my room, Rachel, first thing in the morning. 456 00:23:20,860 --> 00:23:23,860 Yes, Mother. Good night, Godfrey. 457 00:23:23,860 --> 00:23:26,860 Good night, cousin Rachel. See you early. 458 00:23:26,860 --> 00:23:28,860 Rachel, may I see you up? 459 00:23:28,860 --> 00:23:31,860 Please do, Franklin. 460 00:23:31,860 --> 00:23:32,860 What were you and Godfrey... 461 00:23:32,860 --> 00:23:36,860 Talking about? He proposed to me. 462 00:23:36,860 --> 00:23:40,860 You're not going to... I love you, Rachel. 463 00:23:40,860 --> 00:23:43,860 A little more time, Franklin, please. 464 00:23:43,860 --> 00:23:45,860 The diamond, I've got to tell you... 465 00:23:45,860 --> 00:23:57,860 I'll put it right in my cabinet. Good night. 466 00:23:57,860 --> 00:23:59,860 Everything all right, sir? 467 00:23:59,860 --> 00:24:00,860 Yes, thank you, Betridge. 468 00:24:00,860 --> 00:24:04,860 There's a brandy and soda nightcap at your bedside, sir. 469 00:24:04,860 --> 00:24:31,860 Good night. 470 00:24:31,860 --> 00:24:35,860 Mr. Franklin, wake up, sir. Please wake up. 471 00:24:35,860 --> 00:24:38,860 Betridge, morning already? 472 00:24:38,860 --> 00:24:40,860 Yes, sir. Something terrible's happened, sir. 473 00:24:40,860 --> 00:24:41,860 Rachel... 474 00:24:41,860 --> 00:24:44,860 She's all right. The diamond, it's gone. 475 00:24:44,860 --> 00:24:48,860 Get my robe. Thanks. Come on. 476 00:24:48,860 --> 00:24:50,860 How did they break in, Betridge? 477 00:24:50,860 --> 00:24:51,860 Who, sir? 478 00:24:51,860 --> 00:24:52,860 Those blasted jugglers, of course. 479 00:24:52,860 --> 00:24:55,860 I've been all over the house, sir. It's still locked up tight. 480 00:24:55,860 --> 00:24:57,860 Don't worry, cousin. Please don't be scared. 481 00:24:57,860 --> 00:24:58,860 Rachel, don't talk. 482 00:24:58,860 --> 00:25:01,860 No, I don't want to talk. I won't. 483 00:25:01,860 --> 00:25:04,860 Lady Julia, how is Rachel? Is she... 484 00:25:04,860 --> 00:25:05,860 How ill? 485 00:25:05,860 --> 00:25:06,860 She's upset, cousin. 486 00:25:06,860 --> 00:25:09,860 You won't talk about it, Franklin, even to me. 487 00:25:09,860 --> 00:25:10,860 I'll go for the police. 488 00:25:10,860 --> 00:25:16,860 Betridge, saddle a horse, the fastest you've got. 489 00:25:16,860 --> 00:25:18,860 I dashed to my room, dressed quickly, and got outside, 490 00:25:18,860 --> 00:25:20,860 just as Betridge arrived with a horse. 491 00:25:20,860 --> 00:25:22,860 I rode full gallop, furious with myself 492 00:25:22,860 --> 00:25:24,860 for not having spoken up about the Indians. 493 00:25:24,860 --> 00:25:27,860 I was only thankful they hadn't touched Rachel. 494 00:25:27,860 --> 00:25:30,860 Reaching the police in Trenzigal, I rushed in 495 00:25:30,860 --> 00:25:33,860 and received the shock of my life. 496 00:25:39,860 --> 00:25:42,860 Are those your jugglers, Mr. Blake? 497 00:25:42,860 --> 00:25:43,860 Sure. 498 00:25:43,860 --> 00:25:46,860 Yes. Yes, those are the ones, all right. 499 00:25:46,860 --> 00:25:49,860 Ah. There was a fussy at the tavern. 500 00:25:49,860 --> 00:25:51,860 There are three of them, according to the record, 501 00:25:51,860 --> 00:25:54,860 that have been here in jail since 11 last night. 502 00:25:54,860 --> 00:25:57,860 From what you tell me, this moonstone 503 00:25:57,860 --> 00:26:00,860 was still in the owner's possession at 11. 504 00:26:00,860 --> 00:26:03,860 These men couldn't have taken it. 505 00:26:04,860 --> 00:26:07,860 I saw the record with my own eyes. 506 00:26:07,860 --> 00:26:10,860 It was impossible. 507 00:26:10,860 --> 00:26:13,860 If not the Indians, who? 508 00:26:13,860 --> 00:26:25,860 Almost a year was to pass before the discovery of the truth. 509 00:26:36,860 --> 00:26:38,860 Suspense. 510 00:26:38,860 --> 00:26:40,860 Presented by Auto Light. 511 00:26:40,860 --> 00:26:42,860 Tonight's star, Mr. Peter Lawford. 512 00:26:42,860 --> 00:26:46,860 In part one of Wilkie Collins, the Moonstone. 513 00:26:46,860 --> 00:26:49,860 This is Harlow Wilcock speaking for Auto Light, 514 00:26:49,860 --> 00:26:52,860 the world's largest independent manufacturer 515 00:26:52,860 --> 00:26:54,860 of automotive electrical equipment. 516 00:26:54,860 --> 00:26:59,860 In 28 plants from coast to coast, Auto Light makes over 400 products 517 00:26:59,860 --> 00:27:03,860 for cars, trucks, tractors, planes, boats, and industry. 518 00:27:03,860 --> 00:27:08,860 These products include bumpers, die castings, and batteries, 519 00:27:08,860 --> 00:27:10,860 such as the famous Auto Light Stayful, 520 00:27:10,860 --> 00:27:15,860 ignition engineered Auto Light spark plugs, both standard and resistor types, 521 00:27:15,860 --> 00:27:20,860 voltage regulators, wire and battery cable, Auto Light bullseye sealed beam units, 522 00:27:20,860 --> 00:27:25,860 and Auto Light original service parts for all Auto Light electrical systems. 523 00:27:25,860 --> 00:27:30,860 Auto Light is proud to serve the greatest names in the industry. 524 00:27:30,860 --> 00:27:46,860 So, from bumper to tail light, you're always right with Auto Light. 525 00:27:46,860 --> 00:27:51,860 Next week, the concluding portion of the first detective novel ever written. 526 00:27:51,860 --> 00:27:56,860 The discovery of the truth, part two of Wilkie Collins, the Moonstone. 527 00:27:56,860 --> 00:27:58,860 Our star, Mr. Peter Lawford. 528 00:27:58,860 --> 00:28:14,860 That's next week on Suspense. 529 00:28:14,860 --> 00:28:17,860 Suspense is produced and directed by Elliot Lewis, 530 00:28:17,860 --> 00:28:21,860 with music composed by Lucian Morrowick and conducted by Lud Bluskin. 531 00:28:21,860 --> 00:28:27,860 Wilkie Collins, the Moonstone, was adapted for Suspense by Richard Chandley. 532 00:28:27,860 --> 00:28:30,860 In tonight's story, Ellen Morgan was heard as Rachel. 533 00:28:30,860 --> 00:28:35,860 Featured in the cast were Betty Harford, William Johnstone, Ben Wright, 534 00:28:35,860 --> 00:28:43,860 Herb Butterfield, Pat Hitchcock, Norma Varden, Eric Snowden, Alastair Duncan, and Dick Beal. 535 00:28:43,860 --> 00:28:49,860 Peter Lawford will soon be seen co-starring in the Columbia picture, It Should Happen to You. 536 00:28:49,860 --> 00:28:56,860 And remember, next week, Mr. Peter Lawford, in the concluding portion of Wilkie Collins, 537 00:28:56,860 --> 00:29:05,860 the Moonstone. 538 00:29:05,860 --> 00:29:08,860 You can buy Auto Light standard or resistor type spotlights, 539 00:29:08,860 --> 00:29:12,860 Auto Light original service parts, and Auto Light day full batteries 540 00:29:12,860 --> 00:29:14,860 at your neighborhood Auto Light dealer. 541 00:29:14,860 --> 00:29:22,860 Switch to Auto Light. Good night. 542 00:29:22,860 --> 00:29:34,860 This is the CBS Radio Network.