September 24, 2025 • 29 mins
The Whistler was a suspenseful mystery anthology that ran from 1942-1955. A character known only as the Whistler was the host and narrator of the tales, which focused on crime and fate and had a suspenseful and eerie tone, always ending with a twist. The Whistler was later adapted to television.
Hope you enjoy this episode of The Whistler! Find all our OTR radio stations and podcasts at theaterofthemind-otr.com - All Podcasts @ Spreaker | Apple | YouTube | Spotify | iHeart | Amazon
Hope you enjoy this episode of The Whistler! Find all our OTR radio stations and podcasts at theaterofthemind-otr.com - All Podcasts @ Spreaker | Apple | YouTube | Spotify | iHeart | Amazon
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:02):
And now stay tuned for the mystery program that is
unique among all mystery programs, because even when you know
who is guilty, you always receive a startling surprise at
the final curtain. In the Signal Oil Program, the Whistler Signal,
(00:30):
the famous Go Father Gasoline invite you to sit back
and enjoy another strange story by the Whistler.
Speaker 2 (00:55):
I am the Whistler, and I know many things.
Speaker 3 (00:58):
For I walk by night.
Speaker 2 (01:00):
I know many strange tales hidden in the hearts of
men and women.
Speaker 3 (01:04):
Who have stepped into the shadows.
Speaker 2 (01:06):
Yes, I know the nameless terrors of which they dare
not speak.
Speaker 1 (01:14):
And now for the Signal Oil Company, the Whistler's strange story,
the Clayton Affair.
Speaker 2 (01:27):
The day, gray and overcast, matched the mood of the
scene on the hill, the old cemetery high up over
the scene, a swirling mist moving in and out among
those gathered for the services, the last rites, last respects
to be paid. But the little crowd of townsfolk who
had known and loved Jeff Clayton, killed in the prime
(01:47):
of life. The remnants of Jeff Clayton's family were there too,
Mother Clayton, Jim, Jeff's older brother Lenny, the youngest brother,
cousin Freddy, and of course Jeff's attractive year young widow
Ardith Clayton. She seemed least able to bear up under
the ordeal, even was supported by the men folk until
the services were over and they were all back at
(02:10):
the house, the stately old Clayton mansion on the only
then could Ardath begin to control her grief.
Speaker 4 (02:17):
Oh, cut it out, Artith, it's over.
Speaker 5 (02:20):
It's all over.
Speaker 4 (02:22):
He's gone. My brother's gone.
Speaker 6 (02:25):
Oh brother, he was my husband, Jim. I loved him
so much.
Speaker 7 (02:31):
Sure, sure they loved each other.
Speaker 8 (02:33):
Lenny's right, at least half right. I'm sure Jeff loved Ardi.
Speaker 4 (02:39):
Please ready, it's no use, stop it, all of you.
Speaker 6 (02:42):
He's dead, murdered. Oh, mother Clayton, please talk to them.
They're acting as if as if it were my fault.
No one said that, child, No, nobody said it. I'm sorry, Lenny, Jim, Freddy,
Mother Clayton. It must be the strain the funeral. If
you don't mind, I'm going upstairs to bed.
Speaker 7 (03:03):
We don't mind, No, no, we don't mind.
Speaker 6 (03:05):
Good good night, then good night.
Speaker 2 (03:18):
It's a strain, isn't it, Artith. The day the funeral,
as you said. But most of all the Clayton family
they act oddly, as if aligned against you somehow, and
you have the feeling of a caged animal. You want out,
You want to be free of the house somehow, and
that's why you slip out of your upstairs room down
to the garage. A drive in the car would quiet
(03:40):
your nerves, wouldn't it. Yes, a drive alone in the.
Speaker 9 (03:44):
Car, Freddy is yes, cousin, Freddy, too bad, my dear,
my dear, car won't start, you heard you know it won't.
Speaker 5 (04:06):
I'm sorry. No mechanic.
Speaker 8 (04:08):
However, suppose your obvious intention of going for Spinn is spoiled.
Speaker 5 (04:13):
Lenny has the other car.
Speaker 6 (04:14):
It was all right yesterday afternoon.
Speaker 5 (04:16):
As I say, my girl, no mechanic.
Speaker 10 (04:18):
I well, someone's tampered with it. They don't want me
to go out there, afraid I won't come back. You hm, oh,
no mechanic. Indeed, there's grease on your hand. You tampered
with this car, Freddy.
Speaker 8 (04:32):
Really, you're observant, most observant.
Speaker 5 (04:37):
But I did nothing, as I say.
Speaker 6 (04:39):
I heard you, no mechanic. All right, Freddy, have it
your way.
Speaker 5 (04:45):
Good night.
Speaker 2 (04:55):
It's a strange nerve wracking experience, isn't it o? The
happening's here at Clayton House. You've never liked or understood
this odd, close knit family group. You return to the house,
go to your room. A few minutes later, you hear footsteps,
footsteps along the upper hall, and then the turn of
(05:15):
the key in a lock.
Speaker 3 (05:17):
You're lock artis.
Speaker 2 (05:18):
You rush to the door, try it, and step back,
terrified with a realization.
Speaker 6 (05:25):
Locked in, I'm locked in.
Speaker 2 (05:28):
You'll wait nervously, wondering and waiting, and then, unable to
stand it any longer, you ring for the maid, then
more waiting, pacing, until at lasts.
Speaker 6 (05:43):
Yes, oh you did come. They left the key in
the lock, Yes, ma'am, But I don't understand it here?
Speaker 10 (05:53):
Do you understand this money? But don't tell anyone. After
a while, I want you to unlock that door and
help me get out of this house.
Speaker 6 (06:01):
But why, missus Clayton, what's the matter?
Speaker 2 (06:03):
I don't know.
Speaker 6 (06:04):
You don't have to, It doesn't matter.
Speaker 10 (06:07):
Just remember to come up here sometime after midnight and
don't let anyone see you.
Speaker 5 (06:12):
Yes, ma'am.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
You sink into a chair as the maid goes out,
locking the door. The waiting is terrifying, isn't it, Idted,
But the knowledge that you have someone on your side,
now that you've bought some help, a chance for escape,
it's very reassuring. Finally, much later, you see the latch
on the door turning. She's back, isn't she? And you
(06:41):
rise quickly and throw a coat over your shoulder, and.
Speaker 4 (06:43):
Then going somewhere. Jim Clayton, uh huh, Jeff's big brother
is keeper.
Speaker 6 (06:52):
If you like, what is it? What's going on around
this terrible house?
Speaker 11 (06:56):
I think it's kind of nice here. Rodith always liked
the old family.
Speaker 6 (07:00):
You've kept me locked in my room? Why, Jim, why
sat down?
Speaker 5 (07:03):
Ardath?
Speaker 4 (07:03):
I don't like excitable women.
Speaker 6 (07:05):
Tell me the truth, Jim, why are you doing this
to me?
Speaker 11 (07:07):
I said, sit down? That's about him? Cigarette No, then
you don't mind if Ardath your husband, my brother, Jeff,
he didn't just die by accident.
Speaker 6 (07:29):
You know we've been over all that with the police.
Speaker 11 (07:31):
Yes, sure, sure, like they said he was murdered.
Speaker 10 (07:33):
I know what the police said, and I know I'm
being held captive here in this house, and I want
to know why.
Speaker 11 (07:38):
I'm trying to tell you this man who killed Jeff
was shot and killed by the police. Or were you
so busy being the grieving widow you haven't heard the details.
Speaker 6 (07:47):
You know I loved your brother.
Speaker 5 (07:48):
Do I?
Speaker 4 (07:50):
Well, let's say I thought you did once.
Speaker 11 (07:53):
Only we've been looking into the background of this fellow
Joe Hanson, who killed Jeff. Seems that he had a
girl friend, Ardith, So so she was seen with him
quite frequently. She shouldn't have been because she was a
married woman. Go on, we Clayton's have the idea Hanson's
girlfriend was married to Jeff.
Speaker 6 (08:16):
What are you saying?
Speaker 4 (08:17):
I thought it sounded pretty clear. Do you want a cigarette?
Speaker 3 (08:22):
Now?
Speaker 4 (08:22):
What are you saying, Jim that you've dead?
Speaker 2 (08:24):
It?
Speaker 5 (08:24):
Artith?
Speaker 11 (08:25):
Because you were in love with this fellow Hanson and
Jeff wouldn't devorship you killed Jeff Clayton. I had him
killed in the same cold matter of fact where you'd
step on a bug.
Speaker 10 (08:33):
If if you're so sure of it, why don't you
tell the police.
Speaker 11 (08:36):
Because we're not quite sure. When we are will decide
what to do with you.
Speaker 5 (08:41):
Ardith.
Speaker 4 (08:41):
If you're innocent, all right, But if you're guilty.
Speaker 10 (08:43):
How will you know, Jim, how can you possibly know?
You can't keep me here terrify me into saying things
that aren't true.
Speaker 4 (08:50):
Not be necessary, not at all.
Speaker 11 (08:52):
You see the fellow that saw you and the boyfriend
together so many times. He's on his way here.
Speaker 6 (09:00):
I don't understand you will.
Speaker 11 (09:02):
When he identifies you as Hanson's girlfriend. Oh yes, oh well,
sweet dreams, Dath, mister Fletcher will be here tomorrow, good night.
This time, I'll take your door key with me, Darling,
(09:43):
I am growing old. That could well be the theme
song of to day's automobiles, what with more than half
of the cars now operating being over eight years old.
But regardless of how old or how new your car
may be, there's a wonderful spring tonic to bring out
the best in any car of any age. It's signal ethyl,
the premium grade of signals famous go Farther gasoline. You
(10:07):
say your car legs behind and watches others go by
when the traffic signal says go, then you're not powering
your car with signal ethyl. You say your car complains
on hills and pings force you to shift, Then you're
not powering your car with signal ethyl. There's no tomic
like this, smooth, super powerful super fuel to put spring
(10:28):
into your car, and the joy of spring into your driving.
And what do you know, it's spring right now? High
time for you to try a tank full of signal
ethyl right now.
Speaker 3 (10:56):
It's a dread sleepless night for you, isn't it.
Speaker 2 (10:58):
I yes, because you know what will happen the moment
that witness arives names you as the woman so often
seen with your husband's killer. But there's nothing you can
do now nothing. The following morning, as Jim opens the
door to your room, ushers you downstairs to join the
rest of the Claytons in the massive library. They sit
(11:19):
around like a silent juror. And then you become conscious
of a frightening sound something just outside the library window.
Someone's digging out there are a grave, perhaps, and you
wonder if it's to be your grave. Then the digging stops.
Shortly after that, cousin Freddy comes into the room.
Speaker 8 (11:40):
Well that's done, oh art Is You should have kept
me company out there. None of the others are interested
in gardening, gardening, preparing a bed.
Speaker 5 (11:52):
For my new boat to the Daless.
Speaker 8 (11:55):
Oh, you're all terribly quiet.
Speaker 4 (11:58):
We're waiting for mister Fletcher.
Speaker 5 (12:00):
Freddie Fletcher.
Speaker 8 (12:02):
Oh, yes, the one who's to tell us all? Hmmm, Odi,
I do hope he's mistaken.
Speaker 7 (12:09):
I've always had the iea that yes I brought mister Fletcher.
Speaker 4 (12:14):
We're in the library, Fletcher, Fletcher.
Speaker 6 (12:17):
I don't know any mister Fletcher.
Speaker 4 (12:18):
The important thing is does he know you?
Speaker 5 (12:22):
Oh?
Speaker 4 (12:22):
How do you do mister Fletcher?
Speaker 5 (12:23):
How do you do well?
Speaker 4 (12:26):
Mister Fletcher?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
M No, No, this isn't a girl.
Speaker 5 (12:34):
I know her anywhere.
Speaker 3 (12:35):
And this isn't the girl.
Speaker 5 (12:38):
Jim, she's fainted.
Speaker 7 (12:40):
No, no, leave her alone, poor thing, the poor frightened thing.
Speaker 3 (12:53):
It's over, isn't it?
Speaker 6 (12:54):
Artist?
Speaker 3 (12:55):
And you know it.
Speaker 2 (12:56):
Even as you sink down on the chaise long and
a half faint, you can hear them talking around you.
Hear them ushering mister Fletcher out, a man who could
have sealed your death warrant with a few words, but
he didn't recognize you.
Speaker 3 (13:10):
Now you'll be able.
Speaker 2 (13:10):
To get away, go somewhere where they'll never find you,
even if they do some day learn.
Speaker 3 (13:16):
The truth about Jeff's death.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
You rest for about an hour and then go to
the garden for a little fresh air. Jim steps up.
Speaker 11 (13:25):
To you, Ardith, I uh, I'm sorry, I yes, we
gave you a rough time.
Speaker 10 (13:32):
I know how you must have felt about your brother,
but well, a part I can't excuse is the fiendishness
of all of you.
Speaker 6 (13:39):
The kind of a family you are.
Speaker 4 (13:40):
Yes, I know you say we're a close knit family, Ardith.
We were just trying to make you break.
Speaker 11 (13:46):
Down and confess. But if you had, we wouldn't have
taken the law into our own hands.
Speaker 3 (13:51):
We'd have turned you over.
Speaker 4 (13:51):
To the police.
Speaker 6 (13:53):
You never liked me, any of you. Well you might
as well know.
Speaker 10 (13:57):
I've despised you too, the very name and is something
I'm anxious to forget.
Speaker 6 (14:03):
Now leave me alone, all.
Speaker 3 (14:05):
Right, You look after him, smiling to yourself.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
Strange, isn't it artic? How it's all changed, How you
can say anything now and be excused rather than accused.
You turn as Jim enters the house and stroll along
the gravel path leading down toward the boat house. You've
got to think this out carefully, now, don't you, and
quickly too, decide exactly where to go so they could
(14:31):
never find you, and you must get started soon while
the Clayton still believe you innocent.
Speaker 5 (14:38):
Ardit Ardi.
Speaker 7 (14:40):
But oh, Lenny, Jim said, I'd probably find you down
here by the sea wall.
Speaker 6 (14:45):
I thought you'd gone to the village with your friend
mister Fletcher.
Speaker 7 (14:48):
No I did. Now I'm back. I want to talk
to you.
Speaker 6 (14:52):
Well, if you've come to apologize.
Speaker 7 (14:53):
No, I just wanted to chat about mister Fletcher.
Speaker 6 (14:58):
Right about him.
Speaker 7 (14:58):
Well, as you know, i'm him at the bus stop
this morning.
Speaker 10 (15:01):
Yes, yes, you drove him out of the house and
he failed to recognize me.
Speaker 6 (15:04):
I know all that.
Speaker 7 (15:05):
But mister Fletcher did recognize you art what. Yes, I
showed him a photograph. He identified you as Hanson's girlfriend.
Speaker 6 (15:14):
Why that's ridiculous.
Speaker 7 (15:16):
He was quite positive.
Speaker 6 (15:17):
But at the house a little while ago he said.
Speaker 7 (15:19):
Oh him, that wasn't mister Fletcher. What well, not the
real mister Fletcher. The man you saw was a chap
I paid to pose his mister Fletcher. I told him
it was a sort of a joke.
Speaker 6 (15:33):
I see.
Speaker 7 (15:34):
I thought it best to keep the real mister Fletcher
under cover for your sake.
Speaker 6 (15:39):
That was very thoughtful of you, Lenny.
Speaker 7 (15:42):
But you needn't have bothered you going to tell me
he was mistaken, of course, I don't think so. This
photograph is a very good likeness of the artist. Here,
save yourself.
Speaker 6 (15:54):
Where'd you get your snapshot? Oh?
Speaker 7 (15:55):
I been carrying it around in my wallet, was taking
about six months ago.
Speaker 6 (16:00):
Listen to me, Lenny, this man Fletcher is wrong.
Speaker 10 (16:03):
He's mistaken me for some one else. I tell you
I didn't know this man Hansome. I had nothing to
do with Jeff's death.
Speaker 7 (16:10):
Okay, I don't care one way or the other. But
I'm not sorry Jeff's dead. Not sorry at all. There
were times when I think I gotta kill him myself.
Speaker 6 (16:22):
I knew you didn't get along, But get along.
Speaker 7 (16:25):
I hated him, Why, Lenny, Because I fell in love
with you and you belonged to him.
Speaker 10 (16:33):
Is Is that why you did this about mister Fletcher.
Speaker 7 (16:37):
I mean, that's why.
Speaker 6 (16:40):
He's mistaken about me. You know I swear.
Speaker 7 (16:44):
Okay, So he's mistaken. I told you I don't care
one way the other.
Speaker 6 (16:48):
You you do believe me, don't you?
Speaker 5 (16:51):
Sure?
Speaker 2 (16:51):
Edith?
Speaker 6 (16:52):
I believe him, But the rest of the Clayton's won't.
They'd rather take his word than mine. And if the
real Fletcher should happen to talk.
Speaker 7 (16:59):
To them, don't worry about him. He won't talk to anyone.
Cash settlement works wonders. Are you sure positive? I've made
all the arrangements, Jim tells me, trying to leave us.
Speaker 6 (17:12):
Yes, yes, that's right.
Speaker 10 (17:14):
I thought i'd visit some friends in San Francisco and
perhaps Honolulu.
Speaker 6 (17:18):
I just want to get away forget sure.
Speaker 7 (17:21):
You know what I've been thinking of getting away from
here myself, go abroad. Travel be sort of fun if
we could do it together, don't you think?
Speaker 6 (17:32):
Yes, yes, yes it would.
Speaker 7 (17:33):
I'm not such a bad company. Really, of course you're not.
Speaker 6 (17:38):
Why are you going in the boat house?
Speaker 5 (17:40):
Oh?
Speaker 7 (17:40):
We can talk better in here. Come on, you're safe
with me.
Speaker 6 (17:45):
I'm sure I am, And.
Speaker 7 (17:48):
You do like me? Don't chat it? You know I
do enough to marry me?
Speaker 6 (17:55):
Marry you, Lenny?
Speaker 7 (17:56):
Yeah, someday soon.
Speaker 6 (17:59):
Well, I'd like some time to think about it. After all,
you're five years younger than I.
Speaker 7 (18:05):
Oh so what that's happened before? But I understand you're
wanting to think about it.
Speaker 10 (18:11):
Why don't you come down to San Francisco in a
few days. We could meet there talkodo.
Speaker 6 (18:16):
Let me go with you now, Artith, No, Lenny, i'd
rather you didn't. I want time to think. But Artist,
we'll meet Friday. That's only day after tomorrow.
Speaker 7 (18:28):
Well, no, Ardith, I'm as tired of this place as
you are. I want to go with you. You're leaving today,
aren't you. Yes, but I'm going with you. Oh, you
don't have to decide about marrying me right away.
Speaker 6 (18:40):
But Lenny, listen to me a minute.
Speaker 7 (18:42):
I've got an important appointment in town at four o'clock, Artith.
But I'll be back in a couple of hours. This
four o'clock appointment won't take long. I've already packed my
traveling bag. Please, Lenny, you'd better do it my way, Ardith.
It's safer, all right, Lenny, Yes it is.
Speaker 2 (19:07):
There isn't room in your plans for Lenny is the roardin,
and you realize you've got to move quickly get him
out of the way.
Speaker 5 (19:13):
Now.
Speaker 3 (19:14):
All you need is a few hours head start.
Speaker 2 (19:17):
As he turned starts for the door, your eyes fall
on the open tool chest nearby. In a split second,
you reach down, pick up a hammer and impulsively throw
it at him.
Speaker 6 (19:36):
Lenny, Lenny, Lenny.
Speaker 3 (19:41):
He's dead, isn't the yardist?
Speaker 2 (19:43):
Yes? In a moment of blind panic, you've killed it.
You stand there staring down at him, unable to move
to think clearly. Finally, you take the key to the
boathouse from Lenny's pocket, then manage to reach.
Speaker 3 (19:56):
The door step outside lock boat house.
Speaker 2 (20:00):
Door behind you.
Speaker 3 (20:02):
Put Lenny's key in your purse.
Speaker 6 (20:04):
You've got to get away.
Speaker 10 (20:05):
I've got to get away.
Speaker 2 (20:12):
Back at the house, in your room, you pack your
things quickly, stopping occasionally to glance out the window toward
the boat house several hundred yards away. You're certain no
one will go near there the rest of the day,
and there's a good chance a couple of days may
go by before the body is discovered. You've decided to
hide for a few weeks at the home of a
(20:33):
girl friend in Mexico. All you need is a few
hours start.
Speaker 6 (20:42):
Yes, jem may I say you a mittte come in?
Speaker 4 (20:50):
Wow, so you're really going.
Speaker 6 (20:52):
I thought I made that quite clear.
Speaker 2 (20:53):
To you before.
Speaker 10 (20:54):
Well, yes, but you wondered if perhaps I might have
changed my mind.
Speaker 6 (21:00):
No chance of that. Well, what do you want to
see me about?
Speaker 4 (21:05):
It's mother. She'd like to talk.
Speaker 6 (21:06):
With you more apologies.
Speaker 4 (21:08):
Well, if you'll just look in on her right now later.
Speaker 6 (21:11):
If I feel like it now, if you don't mind,
I'd like to finish my.
Speaker 4 (21:14):
Packing all right. Uh, he wants me to drive you
into the station.
Speaker 6 (21:20):
Well, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, I'd like
you to drive me over to Milldale. I can catch
a train there for Seattle.
Speaker 4 (21:27):
Sure. Sure, just as soon as Freddy comes back with
a car. He's still in the village.
Speaker 6 (21:32):
The convertible's out front. Why can't you take that?
Speaker 11 (21:34):
Ah, Lundy's got the keys, and I don't know where
he is. Last time I saw him he was with
you walking along the sea wall.
Speaker 6 (21:41):
Yes, but that was quite some time.
Speaker 4 (21:42):
I could hunt him up if you want. He might
be at the boat house filling with him.
Speaker 6 (21:45):
So no, no, no bother. I'll wait till Freddy comes back.
Speaker 2 (21:53):
A sudden thought occurred to you, didn't it on it?
And it helps to calm you. Yes, there are only
two keys to.
Speaker 3 (22:00):
The boat house. One of them belongs to Lennie. His
key is in your purse.
Speaker 2 (22:05):
The other key is in Jim's possession, and he's going
to drive you to mill Day. Now you're almost certain
of a twenty four hour start before Lenny is found.
As you wait, you become more and more confident that
you'll get away safely. Finally, you hear the big car
stop in front of the house, pick up your suitcase
and hurry downstairs.
Speaker 10 (22:30):
Can I help with the rest of the luggage, Arda, No,
I'm taking this one suitcase with me.
Speaker 6 (22:33):
I'll send for the rest of my things later.
Speaker 4 (22:35):
All right, you stop in and see mother.
Speaker 6 (22:39):
No, rather not okay? You say goodbye to her for me,
and to Carl, of course.
Speaker 5 (22:47):
And give a big kiss to cousin Freddy.
Speaker 6 (22:49):
Oh yes, by all means, ess are you you think
you'll be able to bear up under it?
Speaker 8 (22:56):
Well, it's a shattering blow, but I imagine I'll recover.
Speaker 11 (22:58):
Now give me the Kirky's Freddy, I'm driving Artist to
the train.
Speaker 5 (23:01):
Well, i'd be glad to blige.
Speaker 6 (23:03):
You don't mind. I'd rather Jim drove.
Speaker 8 (23:05):
What's the matter of Odith, fred I'd practice more of
my psychological warfare, Freddy. Sorry, Jim. The keys and bovoyage
to you, Ardith. Do drop us a postcard sometimes?
Speaker 6 (23:18):
Mm hmmm, of course? Are you ready, Jim? All right,
let's go.
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Why don't you you.
Speaker 2 (25:08):
Look around for the last time, Arty Clayton Hall, and
now you're about to leave it. In another half hour,
you'll be aboard the train headed north. But your plan
calls for you to get off that train take a
plane headed south Yes, when Lenny's body is found, they'll
be looking for you in Seattle, but you will be
safely across the border in New Mexico. Now, as you
(25:31):
stepped forward and Jim is about to open the front.
Speaker 4 (25:33):
Door, Oh, I wonder who this is?
Speaker 5 (25:38):
Yes, this the Clayton residence.
Speaker 8 (25:40):
Yes, that's right, I'm looking for a mister Lennie Clayton.
Speaker 4 (25:43):
Well, he isn't here at the moment. I'm his brother.
Speaker 8 (25:45):
Is there anything I possibly I was asked to come
here to identify a woman. Your brother met me at
the bus station, showed me a picture of this lady
right here.
Speaker 4 (25:54):
No, quite a minute.
Speaker 5 (25:55):
Who are you. My name's Fletcher, Amos, Fletcher.
Speaker 4 (25:59):
Fletcher, Just a minute, let me go, not until I
get to the bottom of this. Look, mister Fletcher, you
say my brother showed you a photograph of this woman here.
Speaker 8 (26:07):
Yeah, I recognized her right away. She was Joe Hanson's girlfriend.
Speaker 6 (26:10):
That's not true.
Speaker 8 (26:11):
Please, lady, I've served the two of your drinks off
and go on.
Speaker 4 (26:14):
Fletcher.
Speaker 5 (26:15):
Well, when I told.
Speaker 8 (26:15):
Your brother this lady was Hanson's girlfriend, he thanked me
and told me he'd bring me a thousand dollars this afternoon.
We made an appointment in Talent for four o'clock.
Speaker 6 (26:23):
Lenny's four o'clock appointment was to pay you.
Speaker 5 (26:26):
Yeah.
Speaker 8 (26:27):
I waited for half an hour, and when your brother
didn't show, I came out here.
Speaker 4 (26:30):
I see.
Speaker 11 (26:31):
Well you'll get your money, mister Fletcher. I'll have it
for you tomorrow. You're certain this lady was a friend
of Hanson's.
Speaker 8 (26:37):
Of course he used to bring her to my cafe
two or three times a week.
Speaker 6 (26:42):
All right, Suppose I did know Joe Hanson. That doesn't
prove I killed Jeff.
Speaker 11 (26:46):
No, it doesn't, but I think it will be more
than enough to justify the police detaining you for further investigation.
Speaker 8 (26:52):
I uh, I think I'll be running along now, mister Clayt,
and I hope you don't mind my barging out to
your house like this.
Speaker 5 (26:57):
If if your brother had kept his appointments quite all.
Speaker 11 (27:00):
Right, then he's pretty absent minded, probably forgot about it.
Last time I saw him, he was working toward the
boathouse with Artif.
Speaker 4 (27:08):
Maybe he's still there.
Speaker 1 (27:33):
Let that whistle be your signal for the Signal Oil program.
The whistler each Sunday night at the same time meantime,
Signal Oil Company and the friendly independent dealers who help
you go farther with signal gasoline. Hope you'll remember regardless
of what gasoline you use, you'll enjoy more miles of
happy driving if you drive at sensible speeds, obey traffic regulations,
(27:56):
and avoid taking chances. When you take a chance to
save a moment, you take a chance on that moment's
being your last. Featured in Tonight's story where Bill Foreman,
(28:20):
Joe Gilbert, Bill Conrad, Ted Osborne, DJ Thompson, and Gray Stafford.
The Whistler was produced and directed by George w Allen,
with story by Steve Hampton, music by Wilbur Hatch, and
was transmitted to our troops overseas by the Armed Forces
Radio Service. The Whistler is entirely fictional, and all characters
portrayed on the Whistler are also fictional. Any similarity of
(28:42):
names or resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.
Remember to tune in at the same time next Sunday
when the Signal Oil Company will bring you another strange
story by the Whistler Marvin Miller speaking for the Signal
Oil Company. Stay tuned now for Armis Brook starring Eve Arden,
which follows immediately over most of these stations. This is
(29:04):
the CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System
And now stay tuned for the mystery program that is
unique among all mystery programs, because even when you know
who is guilty, you always receive a startling surprise at
the final curtain. In the Signal Oil Program, the Whistler Signal,
(00:30):
the famous Go Father Gasoline invite you to sit back
and enjoy another strange story by the Whistler.
Speaker 2 (00:55):
I am the Whistler, and I know many things.
Speaker 3 (00:58):
For I walk by night.
Speaker 2 (01:00):
I know many strange tales hidden in the hearts of
men and women.
Speaker 3 (01:04):
Who have stepped into the shadows.
Speaker 2 (01:06):
Yes, I know the nameless terrors of which they dare
not speak.
Speaker 1 (01:14):
And now for the Signal Oil Company, the Whistler's strange story,
the Clayton Affair.
Speaker 2 (01:27):
The day, gray and overcast, matched the mood of the
scene on the hill, the old cemetery high up over
the scene, a swirling mist moving in and out among
those gathered for the services, the last rites, last respects
to be paid. But the little crowd of townsfolk who
had known and loved Jeff Clayton, killed in the prime
(01:47):
of life. The remnants of Jeff Clayton's family were there too,
Mother Clayton, Jim, Jeff's older brother Lenny, the youngest brother,
cousin Freddy, and of course Jeff's attractive year young widow
Ardith Clayton. She seemed least able to bear up under
the ordeal, even was supported by the men folk until
the services were over and they were all back at
(02:10):
the house, the stately old Clayton mansion on the only
then could Ardath begin to control her grief.
Speaker 4 (02:17):
Oh, cut it out, Artith, it's over.
Speaker 5 (02:20):
It's all over.
Speaker 4 (02:22):
He's gone. My brother's gone.
Speaker 6 (02:25):
Oh brother, he was my husband, Jim. I loved him
so much.
Speaker 7 (02:31):
Sure, sure they loved each other.
Speaker 8 (02:33):
Lenny's right, at least half right. I'm sure Jeff loved Ardi.
Speaker 4 (02:39):
Please ready, it's no use, stop it, all of you.
Speaker 6 (02:42):
He's dead, murdered. Oh, mother Clayton, please talk to them.
They're acting as if as if it were my fault.
No one said that, child, No, nobody said it. I'm sorry, Lenny, Jim, Freddy,
Mother Clayton. It must be the strain the funeral. If
you don't mind, I'm going upstairs to bed.
Speaker 7 (03:03):
We don't mind, No, no, we don't mind.
Speaker 6 (03:05):
Good good night, then good night.
Speaker 2 (03:18):
It's a strain, isn't it, Artith. The day the funeral,
as you said. But most of all the Clayton family
they act oddly, as if aligned against you somehow, and
you have the feeling of a caged animal. You want out,
You want to be free of the house somehow, and
that's why you slip out of your upstairs room down
to the garage. A drive in the car would quiet
(03:40):
your nerves, wouldn't it. Yes, a drive alone in the.
Speaker 9 (03:44):
Car, Freddy is yes, cousin, Freddy, too bad, my dear,
my dear, car won't start, you heard you know it won't.
Speaker 5 (04:06):
I'm sorry. No mechanic.
Speaker 8 (04:08):
However, suppose your obvious intention of going for Spinn is spoiled.
Speaker 5 (04:13):
Lenny has the other car.
Speaker 6 (04:14):
It was all right yesterday afternoon.
Speaker 5 (04:16):
As I say, my girl, no mechanic.
Speaker 10 (04:18):
I well, someone's tampered with it. They don't want me
to go out there, afraid I won't come back. You hm, oh,
no mechanic. Indeed, there's grease on your hand. You tampered
with this car, Freddy.
Speaker 8 (04:32):
Really, you're observant, most observant.
Speaker 5 (04:37):
But I did nothing, as I say.
Speaker 6 (04:39):
I heard you, no mechanic. All right, Freddy, have it
your way.
Speaker 5 (04:45):
Good night.
Speaker 2 (04:55):
It's a strange nerve wracking experience, isn't it o? The
happening's here at Clayton House. You've never liked or understood
this odd, close knit family group. You return to the house,
go to your room. A few minutes later, you hear footsteps,
footsteps along the upper hall, and then the turn of
(05:15):
the key in a lock.
Speaker 3 (05:17):
You're lock artis.
Speaker 2 (05:18):
You rush to the door, try it, and step back,
terrified with a realization.
Speaker 6 (05:25):
Locked in, I'm locked in.
Speaker 2 (05:28):
You'll wait nervously, wondering and waiting, and then, unable to
stand it any longer, you ring for the maid, then
more waiting, pacing, until at lasts.
Speaker 6 (05:43):
Yes, oh you did come. They left the key in
the lock, Yes, ma'am, But I don't understand it here?
Speaker 10 (05:53):
Do you understand this money? But don't tell anyone. After
a while, I want you to unlock that door and
help me get out of this house.
Speaker 6 (06:01):
But why, missus Clayton, what's the matter?
Speaker 2 (06:03):
I don't know.
Speaker 6 (06:04):
You don't have to, It doesn't matter.
Speaker 10 (06:07):
Just remember to come up here sometime after midnight and
don't let anyone see you.
Speaker 5 (06:12):
Yes, ma'am.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
You sink into a chair as the maid goes out,
locking the door. The waiting is terrifying, isn't it, Idted,
But the knowledge that you have someone on your side,
now that you've bought some help, a chance for escape,
it's very reassuring. Finally, much later, you see the latch
on the door turning. She's back, isn't she? And you
(06:41):
rise quickly and throw a coat over your shoulder, and.
Speaker 4 (06:43):
Then going somewhere. Jim Clayton, uh huh, Jeff's big brother
is keeper.
Speaker 6 (06:52):
If you like, what is it? What's going on around
this terrible house?
Speaker 11 (06:56):
I think it's kind of nice here. Rodith always liked
the old family.
Speaker 6 (07:00):
You've kept me locked in my room? Why, Jim, why
sat down?
Speaker 5 (07:03):
Ardath?
Speaker 4 (07:03):
I don't like excitable women.
Speaker 6 (07:05):
Tell me the truth, Jim, why are you doing this
to me?
Speaker 11 (07:07):
I said, sit down? That's about him? Cigarette No, then
you don't mind if Ardath your husband, my brother, Jeff,
he didn't just die by accident.
Speaker 6 (07:29):
You know we've been over all that with the police.
Speaker 11 (07:31):
Yes, sure, sure, like they said he was murdered.
Speaker 10 (07:33):
I know what the police said, and I know I'm
being held captive here in this house, and I want
to know why.
Speaker 11 (07:38):
I'm trying to tell you this man who killed Jeff
was shot and killed by the police. Or were you
so busy being the grieving widow you haven't heard the details.
Speaker 6 (07:47):
You know I loved your brother.
Speaker 5 (07:48):
Do I?
Speaker 4 (07:50):
Well, let's say I thought you did once.
Speaker 11 (07:53):
Only we've been looking into the background of this fellow
Joe Hanson, who killed Jeff. Seems that he had a
girl friend, Ardith, So so she was seen with him
quite frequently. She shouldn't have been because she was a
married woman. Go on, we Clayton's have the idea Hanson's
girlfriend was married to Jeff.
Speaker 6 (08:16):
What are you saying?
Speaker 4 (08:17):
I thought it sounded pretty clear. Do you want a cigarette?
Speaker 3 (08:22):
Now?
Speaker 4 (08:22):
What are you saying, Jim that you've dead?
Speaker 2 (08:24):
It?
Speaker 5 (08:24):
Artith?
Speaker 11 (08:25):
Because you were in love with this fellow Hanson and
Jeff wouldn't devorship you killed Jeff Clayton. I had him
killed in the same cold matter of fact where you'd
step on a bug.
Speaker 10 (08:33):
If if you're so sure of it, why don't you
tell the police.
Speaker 11 (08:36):
Because we're not quite sure. When we are will decide
what to do with you.
Speaker 5 (08:41):
Ardith.
Speaker 4 (08:41):
If you're innocent, all right, But if you're guilty.
Speaker 10 (08:43):
How will you know, Jim, how can you possibly know?
You can't keep me here terrify me into saying things
that aren't true.
Speaker 4 (08:50):
Not be necessary, not at all.
Speaker 11 (08:52):
You see the fellow that saw you and the boyfriend
together so many times. He's on his way here.
Speaker 6 (09:00):
I don't understand you will.
Speaker 11 (09:02):
When he identifies you as Hanson's girlfriend. Oh yes, oh well,
sweet dreams, Dath, mister Fletcher will be here tomorrow, good night.
This time, I'll take your door key with me, Darling,
(09:43):
I am growing old. That could well be the theme
song of to day's automobiles, what with more than half
of the cars now operating being over eight years old.
But regardless of how old or how new your car
may be, there's a wonderful spring tonic to bring out
the best in any car of any age. It's signal ethyl,
the premium grade of signals famous go Farther gasoline. You
(10:07):
say your car legs behind and watches others go by
when the traffic signal says go, then you're not powering
your car with signal ethyl. You say your car complains
on hills and pings force you to shift, Then you're
not powering your car with signal ethyl. There's no tomic
like this, smooth, super powerful super fuel to put spring
(10:28):
into your car, and the joy of spring into your driving.
And what do you know, it's spring right now? High
time for you to try a tank full of signal
ethyl right now.
Speaker 3 (10:56):
It's a dread sleepless night for you, isn't it.
Speaker 2 (10:58):
I yes, because you know what will happen the moment
that witness arives names you as the woman so often
seen with your husband's killer. But there's nothing you can
do now nothing. The following morning, as Jim opens the
door to your room, ushers you downstairs to join the
rest of the Claytons in the massive library. They sit
(11:19):
around like a silent juror. And then you become conscious
of a frightening sound something just outside the library window.
Someone's digging out there are a grave, perhaps, and you
wonder if it's to be your grave. Then the digging stops.
Shortly after that, cousin Freddy comes into the room.
Speaker 8 (11:40):
Well that's done, oh art Is You should have kept
me company out there. None of the others are interested
in gardening, gardening, preparing a bed.
Speaker 5 (11:52):
For my new boat to the Daless.
Speaker 8 (11:55):
Oh, you're all terribly quiet.
Speaker 4 (11:58):
We're waiting for mister Fletcher.
Speaker 5 (12:00):
Freddie Fletcher.
Speaker 8 (12:02):
Oh, yes, the one who's to tell us all? Hmmm, Odi,
I do hope he's mistaken.
Speaker 7 (12:09):
I've always had the iea that yes I brought mister Fletcher.
Speaker 4 (12:14):
We're in the library, Fletcher, Fletcher.
Speaker 6 (12:17):
I don't know any mister Fletcher.
Speaker 4 (12:18):
The important thing is does he know you?
Speaker 5 (12:22):
Oh?
Speaker 4 (12:22):
How do you do mister Fletcher?
Speaker 5 (12:23):
How do you do well?
Speaker 4 (12:26):
Mister Fletcher?
Speaker 2 (12:28):
M No, No, this isn't a girl.
Speaker 5 (12:34):
I know her anywhere.
Speaker 3 (12:35):
And this isn't the girl.
Speaker 5 (12:38):
Jim, she's fainted.
Speaker 7 (12:40):
No, no, leave her alone, poor thing, the poor frightened thing.
Speaker 3 (12:53):
It's over, isn't it?
Speaker 6 (12:54):
Artist?
Speaker 3 (12:55):
And you know it.
Speaker 2 (12:56):
Even as you sink down on the chaise long and
a half faint, you can hear them talking around you.
Hear them ushering mister Fletcher out, a man who could
have sealed your death warrant with a few words, but
he didn't recognize you.
Speaker 3 (13:10):
Now you'll be able.
Speaker 2 (13:10):
To get away, go somewhere where they'll never find you,
even if they do some day learn.
Speaker 3 (13:16):
The truth about Jeff's death.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
You rest for about an hour and then go to
the garden for a little fresh air. Jim steps up.
Speaker 11 (13:25):
To you, Ardith, I uh, I'm sorry, I yes, we
gave you a rough time.
Speaker 10 (13:32):
I know how you must have felt about your brother,
but well, a part I can't excuse is the fiendishness
of all of you.
Speaker 6 (13:39):
The kind of a family you are.
Speaker 4 (13:40):
Yes, I know you say we're a close knit family, Ardith.
We were just trying to make you break.
Speaker 11 (13:46):
Down and confess. But if you had, we wouldn't have
taken the law into our own hands.
Speaker 3 (13:51):
We'd have turned you over.
Speaker 4 (13:51):
To the police.
Speaker 6 (13:53):
You never liked me, any of you. Well you might
as well know.
Speaker 10 (13:57):
I've despised you too, the very name and is something
I'm anxious to forget.
Speaker 6 (14:03):
Now leave me alone, all.
Speaker 3 (14:05):
Right, You look after him, smiling to yourself.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
Strange, isn't it artic? How it's all changed, How you
can say anything now and be excused rather than accused.
You turn as Jim enters the house and stroll along
the gravel path leading down toward the boat house. You've
got to think this out carefully, now, don't you, and
quickly too, decide exactly where to go so they could
(14:31):
never find you, and you must get started soon while
the Clayton still believe you innocent.
Speaker 5 (14:38):
Ardit Ardi.
Speaker 7 (14:40):
But oh, Lenny, Jim said, I'd probably find you down
here by the sea wall.
Speaker 6 (14:45):
I thought you'd gone to the village with your friend
mister Fletcher.
Speaker 7 (14:48):
No I did. Now I'm back. I want to talk
to you.
Speaker 6 (14:52):
Well, if you've come to apologize.
Speaker 7 (14:53):
No, I just wanted to chat about mister Fletcher.
Speaker 6 (14:58):
Right about him.
Speaker 7 (14:58):
Well, as you know, i'm him at the bus stop
this morning.
Speaker 10 (15:01):
Yes, yes, you drove him out of the house and
he failed to recognize me.
Speaker 6 (15:04):
I know all that.
Speaker 7 (15:05):
But mister Fletcher did recognize you art what. Yes, I
showed him a photograph. He identified you as Hanson's girlfriend.
Speaker 6 (15:14):
Why that's ridiculous.
Speaker 7 (15:16):
He was quite positive.
Speaker 6 (15:17):
But at the house a little while ago he said.
Speaker 7 (15:19):
Oh him, that wasn't mister Fletcher. What well, not the
real mister Fletcher. The man you saw was a chap
I paid to pose his mister Fletcher. I told him
it was a sort of a joke.
Speaker 6 (15:33):
I see.
Speaker 7 (15:34):
I thought it best to keep the real mister Fletcher
under cover for your sake.
Speaker 6 (15:39):
That was very thoughtful of you, Lenny.
Speaker 7 (15:42):
But you needn't have bothered you going to tell me
he was mistaken, of course, I don't think so. This
photograph is a very good likeness of the artist. Here,
save yourself.
Speaker 6 (15:54):
Where'd you get your snapshot? Oh?
Speaker 7 (15:55):
I been carrying it around in my wallet, was taking
about six months ago.
Speaker 6 (16:00):
Listen to me, Lenny, this man Fletcher is wrong.
Speaker 10 (16:03):
He's mistaken me for some one else. I tell you
I didn't know this man Hansome. I had nothing to
do with Jeff's death.
Speaker 7 (16:10):
Okay, I don't care one way or the other. But
I'm not sorry Jeff's dead. Not sorry at all. There
were times when I think I gotta kill him myself.
Speaker 6 (16:22):
I knew you didn't get along, But get along.
Speaker 7 (16:25):
I hated him, Why, Lenny, Because I fell in love
with you and you belonged to him.
Speaker 10 (16:33):
Is Is that why you did this about mister Fletcher.
Speaker 7 (16:37):
I mean, that's why.
Speaker 6 (16:40):
He's mistaken about me. You know I swear.
Speaker 7 (16:44):
Okay, So he's mistaken. I told you I don't care
one way the other.
Speaker 6 (16:48):
You you do believe me, don't you?
Speaker 5 (16:51):
Sure?
Speaker 2 (16:51):
Edith?
Speaker 6 (16:52):
I believe him, But the rest of the Clayton's won't.
They'd rather take his word than mine. And if the
real Fletcher should happen to talk.
Speaker 7 (16:59):
To them, don't worry about him. He won't talk to anyone.
Cash settlement works wonders. Are you sure positive? I've made
all the arrangements, Jim tells me, trying to leave us.
Speaker 6 (17:12):
Yes, yes, that's right.
Speaker 10 (17:14):
I thought i'd visit some friends in San Francisco and
perhaps Honolulu.
Speaker 6 (17:18):
I just want to get away forget sure.
Speaker 7 (17:21):
You know what I've been thinking of getting away from
here myself, go abroad. Travel be sort of fun if
we could do it together, don't you think?
Speaker 6 (17:32):
Yes, yes, yes it would.
Speaker 7 (17:33):
I'm not such a bad company. Really, of course you're not.
Speaker 6 (17:38):
Why are you going in the boat house?
Speaker 5 (17:40):
Oh?
Speaker 7 (17:40):
We can talk better in here. Come on, you're safe
with me.
Speaker 6 (17:45):
I'm sure I am, And.
Speaker 7 (17:48):
You do like me? Don't chat it? You know I
do enough to marry me?
Speaker 6 (17:55):
Marry you, Lenny?
Speaker 7 (17:56):
Yeah, someday soon.
Speaker 6 (17:59):
Well, I'd like some time to think about it. After all,
you're five years younger than I.
Speaker 7 (18:05):
Oh so what that's happened before? But I understand you're
wanting to think about it.
Speaker 10 (18:11):
Why don't you come down to San Francisco in a
few days. We could meet there talkodo.
Speaker 6 (18:16):
Let me go with you now, Artith, No, Lenny, i'd
rather you didn't. I want time to think. But Artist,
we'll meet Friday. That's only day after tomorrow.
Speaker 7 (18:28):
Well, no, Ardith, I'm as tired of this place as
you are. I want to go with you. You're leaving today,
aren't you. Yes, but I'm going with you. Oh, you
don't have to decide about marrying me right away.
Speaker 6 (18:40):
But Lenny, listen to me a minute.
Speaker 7 (18:42):
I've got an important appointment in town at four o'clock, Artith.
But I'll be back in a couple of hours. This
four o'clock appointment won't take long. I've already packed my
traveling bag. Please, Lenny, you'd better do it my way, Ardith.
It's safer, all right, Lenny, Yes it is.
Speaker 2 (19:07):
There isn't room in your plans for Lenny is the roardin,
and you realize you've got to move quickly get him
out of the way.
Speaker 5 (19:13):
Now.
Speaker 3 (19:14):
All you need is a few hours head start.
Speaker 2 (19:17):
As he turned starts for the door, your eyes fall
on the open tool chest nearby. In a split second,
you reach down, pick up a hammer and impulsively throw
it at him.
Speaker 6 (19:36):
Lenny, Lenny, Lenny.
Speaker 3 (19:41):
He's dead, isn't the yardist?
Speaker 2 (19:43):
Yes? In a moment of blind panic, you've killed it.
You stand there staring down at him, unable to move
to think clearly. Finally, you take the key to the
boathouse from Lenny's pocket, then manage to reach.
Speaker 3 (19:56):
The door step outside lock boat house.
Speaker 2 (20:00):
Door behind you.
Speaker 3 (20:02):
Put Lenny's key in your purse.
Speaker 6 (20:04):
You've got to get away.
Speaker 10 (20:05):
I've got to get away.
Speaker 2 (20:12):
Back at the house, in your room, you pack your
things quickly, stopping occasionally to glance out the window toward
the boat house several hundred yards away. You're certain no
one will go near there the rest of the day,
and there's a good chance a couple of days may
go by before the body is discovered. You've decided to
hide for a few weeks at the home of a
(20:33):
girl friend in Mexico. All you need is a few
hours start.
Speaker 6 (20:42):
Yes, jem may I say you a mittte come in?
Speaker 4 (20:50):
Wow, so you're really going.
Speaker 6 (20:52):
I thought I made that quite clear.
Speaker 2 (20:53):
To you before.
Speaker 10 (20:54):
Well, yes, but you wondered if perhaps I might have
changed my mind.
Speaker 6 (21:00):
No chance of that. Well, what do you want to
see me about?
Speaker 4 (21:05):
It's mother. She'd like to talk.
Speaker 6 (21:06):
With you more apologies.
Speaker 4 (21:08):
Well, if you'll just look in on her right now later.
Speaker 6 (21:11):
If I feel like it now, if you don't mind,
I'd like to finish my.
Speaker 4 (21:14):
Packing all right. Uh, he wants me to drive you
into the station.
Speaker 6 (21:20):
Well, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, I'd like
you to drive me over to Milldale. I can catch
a train there for Seattle.
Speaker 4 (21:27):
Sure. Sure, just as soon as Freddy comes back with
a car. He's still in the village.
Speaker 6 (21:32):
The convertible's out front. Why can't you take that?
Speaker 11 (21:34):
Ah, Lundy's got the keys, and I don't know where
he is. Last time I saw him he was with
you walking along the sea wall.
Speaker 6 (21:41):
Yes, but that was quite some time.
Speaker 4 (21:42):
I could hunt him up if you want. He might
be at the boat house filling with him.
Speaker 6 (21:45):
So no, no, no bother. I'll wait till Freddy comes back.
Speaker 2 (21:53):
A sudden thought occurred to you, didn't it on it?
And it helps to calm you. Yes, there are only
two keys to.
Speaker 3 (22:00):
The boat house. One of them belongs to Lennie. His
key is in your purse.
Speaker 2 (22:05):
The other key is in Jim's possession, and he's going
to drive you to mill Day. Now you're almost certain
of a twenty four hour start before Lenny is found.
As you wait, you become more and more confident that
you'll get away safely. Finally, you hear the big car
stop in front of the house, pick up your suitcase
and hurry downstairs.
Speaker 10 (22:30):
Can I help with the rest of the luggage, Arda, No,
I'm taking this one suitcase with me.
Speaker 6 (22:33):
I'll send for the rest of my things later.
Speaker 4 (22:35):
All right, you stop in and see mother.
Speaker 6 (22:39):
No, rather not okay? You say goodbye to her for me,
and to Carl, of course.
Speaker 5 (22:47):
And give a big kiss to cousin Freddy.
Speaker 6 (22:49):
Oh yes, by all means, ess are you you think
you'll be able to bear up under it?
Speaker 8 (22:56):
Well, it's a shattering blow, but I imagine I'll recover.
Speaker 11 (22:58):
Now give me the Kirky's Freddy, I'm driving Artist to
the train.
Speaker 5 (23:01):
Well, i'd be glad to blige.
Speaker 6 (23:03):
You don't mind. I'd rather Jim drove.
Speaker 8 (23:05):
What's the matter of Odith, fred I'd practice more of
my psychological warfare, Freddy. Sorry, Jim. The keys and bovoyage
to you, Ardith. Do drop us a postcard sometimes?
Speaker 6 (23:18):
Mm hmmm, of course? Are you ready, Jim? All right,
let's go.
Speaker 1 (23:44):
A man, they say, is only as old as he fields,
but a car's engine usually is as old as the
motor oil makes it feel. Here's what I mean. Many
motor oils break down, causing motors to lose power, become
oil eaters, and need expensive overhauls long before they should.
That's why, if you want to be sure that unnecessary
wear isn't shortening your engine's life, you'll be wise to
(24:07):
make your spring oil change a change to Signal's amazing
new Premium motor oil that reduces engine were due to
lubrication fifty percent. Because it's a heavy duty type oil,
New Signal Premium does much more than just lubricate. In addition,
it stops acid corrosion and rust, controls harmful engine deposits,
(24:27):
keeps oil rings clean and free, keeps hydraulic valve lifters
from sticking. And note this, all this extra protection is
yours at no increase in price in Signal Premium.
Speaker 5 (24:39):
No wonder.
Speaker 1 (24:40):
More and more drivers today are getting their oil changed
at those friendly independently operated stations which feature the famous
gasoline that helps you go farther at Signal service stations.
Why don't you you.
Speaker 2 (25:08):
Look around for the last time, Arty Clayton Hall, and
now you're about to leave it. In another half hour,
you'll be aboard the train headed north. But your plan
calls for you to get off that train take a
plane headed south Yes, when Lenny's body is found, they'll
be looking for you in Seattle, but you will be
safely across the border in New Mexico. Now, as you
(25:31):
stepped forward and Jim is about to open the front.
Speaker 4 (25:33):
Door, Oh, I wonder who this is?
Speaker 5 (25:38):
Yes, this the Clayton residence.
Speaker 8 (25:40):
Yes, that's right, I'm looking for a mister Lennie Clayton.
Speaker 4 (25:43):
Well, he isn't here at the moment. I'm his brother.
Speaker 8 (25:45):
Is there anything I possibly I was asked to come
here to identify a woman. Your brother met me at
the bus station, showed me a picture of this lady
right here.
Speaker 4 (25:54):
No, quite a minute.
Speaker 5 (25:55):
Who are you. My name's Fletcher, Amos, Fletcher.
Speaker 4 (25:59):
Fletcher, Just a minute, let me go, not until I
get to the bottom of this. Look, mister Fletcher, you
say my brother showed you a photograph of this woman here.
Speaker 8 (26:07):
Yeah, I recognized her right away. She was Joe Hanson's girlfriend.
Speaker 6 (26:10):
That's not true.
Speaker 8 (26:11):
Please, lady, I've served the two of your drinks off
and go on.
Speaker 4 (26:14):
Fletcher.
Speaker 5 (26:15):
Well, when I told.
Speaker 8 (26:15):
Your brother this lady was Hanson's girlfriend, he thanked me
and told me he'd bring me a thousand dollars this afternoon.
We made an appointment in Talent for four o'clock.
Speaker 6 (26:23):
Lenny's four o'clock appointment was to pay you.
Speaker 5 (26:26):
Yeah.
Speaker 8 (26:27):
I waited for half an hour, and when your brother
didn't show, I came out here.
Speaker 4 (26:30):
I see.
Speaker 11 (26:31):
Well you'll get your money, mister Fletcher. I'll have it
for you tomorrow. You're certain this lady was a friend
of Hanson's.
Speaker 8 (26:37):
Of course he used to bring her to my cafe
two or three times a week.
Speaker 6 (26:42):
All right, Suppose I did know Joe Hanson. That doesn't
prove I killed Jeff.
Speaker 11 (26:46):
No, it doesn't, but I think it will be more
than enough to justify the police detaining you for further investigation.
Speaker 8 (26:52):
I uh, I think I'll be running along now, mister Clayt,
and I hope you don't mind my barging out to
your house like this.
Speaker 5 (26:57):
If if your brother had kept his appointments quite all.
Speaker 11 (27:00):
Right, then he's pretty absent minded, probably forgot about it.
Last time I saw him, he was working toward the
boathouse with Artif.
Speaker 4 (27:08):
Maybe he's still there.
Speaker 1 (27:33):
Let that whistle be your signal for the Signal Oil program.
The whistler each Sunday night at the same time meantime,
Signal Oil Company and the friendly independent dealers who help
you go farther with signal gasoline. Hope you'll remember regardless
of what gasoline you use, you'll enjoy more miles of
happy driving if you drive at sensible speeds, obey traffic regulations,
(27:56):
and avoid taking chances. When you take a chance to
save a moment, you take a chance on that moment's
being your last. Featured in Tonight's story where Bill Foreman,
(28:20):
Joe Gilbert, Bill Conrad, Ted Osborne, DJ Thompson, and Gray Stafford.
The Whistler was produced and directed by George w Allen,
with story by Steve Hampton, music by Wilbur Hatch, and
was transmitted to our troops overseas by the Armed Forces
Radio Service. The Whistler is entirely fictional, and all characters
portrayed on the Whistler are also fictional. Any similarity of
(28:42):
names or resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.
Remember to tune in at the same time next Sunday
when the Signal Oil Company will bring you another strange
story by the Whistler Marvin Miller speaking for the Signal
Oil Company. Stay tuned now for Armis Brook starring Eve Arden,
which follows immediately over most of these stations. This is
(29:04):
the CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System
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