(gentle music) (reel clicking) (suspenseful music) (gentle music) >> Narrator: Impact: The force with which two lives come together, sometimes for good, sometimes for evil.

(gavel pounding) (noisy chatter in boardroom) >> I say Williams is out of of line on this.

>> I'm definitely against this.

(gavel pounding) >> We can't forget we have our stockholders to answer to.

>> Phone Mrs. Williams, Della.

Tell her to be ready in about an hour, and I'll pick her up.

>> Yes, sir.

>> You phone San Rafael, and see if those papers are on the way over from the executives.

>> Yes, Walt.

(noisy chatter in boardroom) (gavel banging) >> Walt: Well, Mr. Darcy, what's the score, nine to nothing?

>> I'm afraid it is, Walt.

If you think you can persuade them to change their minds, go right ahead.

>> Gentlemen, I never interfere in stock issues, dividends, or anything else in your department.

I must run my department with no interference.

Either I know why and when I need more factory space, or you need another boy, and that's all right with me, too.

Because I can take these plants, and pick my own spot and mode of production field.

You won't have to worry so much about dividends.

There won't be many.

(commotion in boardroom) >> Hold on!

(gavel pounding) I'm sure none of us want to lose, Walt, or our dividends.

What do you say we take another vote?

(uproar among men) Now, all in favor of buying the three new factories, signify by saying aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> Aye.

>> A unanimous vote.

Congratulations, Walt.

>> Congratulate the board, they're the the winners.

>> Williams, if these factories are so valuable, that other companies would jump at the chance to get them, how do you know that you can buy them at the price you quoted us?

>> How do I know?

I bought them this morning.

>> Man: What?

(men muttering) >> Della, I was asked to rush this up for Mr. Williams.

>> Get my wife, Della?

>> The maid said she'd gone to the dentist.

I gave her the message.

>> Oh, fine.

>> Oh, this just came.

>> Thank you.

What about those papers?

>> Della: They're here Burke's checking them now.

>> Good.

(door creaking) >> Congratulations, Walt.

Take a look at clause four.

Those provisions haven't been clarified yet.

>> Oh, no?

(scoffs) I wanted to leave for Tahoe right away.

Get your Judge Durning on the phone, will you?

Nevermind.

I can get faster action if I run out to San Rafael myself, and stick with him till they're right.

(intercom buzzing) Yes?

>> Mrs. Williams on three.

>> Oh, put the blueprints of that new diesel in, will you?

I want Jackson to see them.

Hi, Duchess.

I'm afraid now we won't be able to leave till about five o'clock.

What?

You're not going with me?

But I counted on it.

>> But I thought as soon as Dr. Harris took care of whatever it was, I'd feel better.

I don't.

Stupid thing still aches, and I certainly wouldn't be a very desirable driving companion.

Now, seriously, darling.

You run along and buy your little factories, and hurry home.

I'll send your bag to the office.

>> And cheat me out of my goodbye kiss, not a chance.

I've got to drive over to San Rafael.

I'll stop on the way.

Love me?

Bye, dear.

(soft piano music playing) (Walt whistling) (Walt whistling) (Walt whistling) >> How do you expect me to whistle through a toothache?

>> Hmm.

Nothing in the whole world smells as sweet as you do, Duchess.

>> I certainly don't feel sweet.

I'm as grouchy as an old bear.

>> Well, old Doc Williams can give you something to fix that.

Close your eyes.

Relax a minute.

Take a look at that and see if you don't feel better.

>> Oh, Walt.

Oh, darling, it's beautiful!

(gentle music) >> Not bad.

Not bad at all.

You know, to quote my wife, "I like monograms on things."

"It shows they belong to me," unquote.

>> When did your wife say such a thing, Mr. Williams?

>> About six years ago when I married her.

She gave me the first monogrammed shirts I ever owned.

Those were the words on the card.

I still have it.

>> I certainly hope your board of directors never discovers what a softy you are.

>> They won't, don't worry.

I have only one vulnerable spot.

>> What really happened this morning?

All I got out of Della was that you stalked out of the office with blood in your eye, and were back in no time with canary feathers in your mouth.

(Walt chuckling) >> Oh, I clipped those birds wings, but short.

No one's gonna vote me down, Sweet.

Not when I know I'm right.

>> Mm-hmm.

But how did you convince the board of that so quickly?

>> With subtle hints, and easy persuasion.

Like this.

Either I get what I want, or you get yourself another boy, and that's all right with me, too.

(vase shattering) >> Irene: Walter!

(dramatic music) >> What a clumsy ox.

I'm sorry, Duchess.

Oh, please, Sweet, don't be so upset.

(Irene laughing) >> Oh, if you could've seen your face.

(laughing) Oh, don't bother, dear.

Su Lin will take care of that.

>> Not exactly a good prescription for nerves, huh?

>> You know, you're wrong, Dr. Williams.

The way I feel now a good catnap will probably make a new woman out of me.

If it's not going to make you too late.

>> Yes?

>> Well, I'm sure that by five o'clock I'll-- >> Swell, I'll run over to San Rafael and get things ironed out, and be back for you by 5:00, on the nose.

>> Darling, wait.

That's perfectly silly.

I'll take a taxi cab, and meet you in Sausalito.

There's a drugstore on the corner opposite the square.

I'll be there at five o'clock, and we can go straight on up to Tahoe.

That'll save you all that late afternoon traffic, and all the time it'll take to come and pick me up.

>> Smart woman, my wife.

Thinks of everything.

Where's your bag, honey?

>> Irene: Oh, Su Lin still has some things to press for me.

>> You sure you don't mind taking a taxi?

>> Irene: Very sure.

>> Sweet dreams, Duchess.

See you at 5:00.

I better get going.

Bye, hon.

(door thuds) (dramatic music) >> Long distance?

Calling Berkeley 7-9-7-2-1.

(telephone ringing) >> Hello?

Oh, hiya, beautiful.

Yeah.

(ship horn blowing) (ship horn blowing) >> Here.

Don't forget, turn this stuff over to a bellboy at the Airport Hotel in Oakland.

Tell him to hold it for Jack Burns.

>> Jack Burns, the Airport Hotel.

>> That's right, I'll be checking in later.

What do I owe you?

>> A buck 15 to here.

All this stuff back to Oakland.

>> Yeah, yeah, here.

Buy yourself a new-- >> Thanks.

(police whistle blows) (foghorn blowing) (police whistle blows) (coins dropping) >> Hey, where's that new woman who was gonna meet me?

It's after five o'clock.

Oh, gee, I was so sure you were gonna be okay.

Maybe you better get yourself another dentist, huh?

Of course, I understand, honey, of course.

Just to prove it to you, I'm coming right on home.

>> No!

You really mustn't, darling.

I'm going to be perfectly all right, really.

And besides... >> Walt: Besides, what?

>> Well, I've done something you're not going to like.

You remember Aunt Margaret back in Illinois?

>> You mean the old gal in Evanston?

I'm way ahead of you, how much?

>> Well, it isn't money this time.

It's another relative, her favorite nephew, Jim Torrence.

All of a sudden, right out of the blue, just after you left he telephoned me from Berkeley.

>> Okay, Duchess, I'll see him when I get back.

>> Well, you don't understand, dear.

You're going to see him right away.

>> Walt: I'm what?

>> Well, all he seemed to want was to be able to get back to Illinois, so I-- >> Walt: So you buy him a ticket, that's easy.

>> Well, it isn't.

I offered to, but he got huffy, and said he didn't want any handouts.

Well, without thinking I told him we'd pick him up and give him a lift as far as Denver.

>> I won't say I'm getting exactly an even trade for you.

But where do I find this guy?

>> Well, he should be there right now.

I told him to be on the lookout for a cream-colored roadster just in case we fail to recognize one another after all these years.

Oh, darling, you're such a lamb.

You sure you forgive me?

>> What do you think?

Well, I'd better run along, or Cousin Jim might get nervous.

Take it easy, Sweet, and miss me, will you?

>> I do already.

Don't drive fast, and please take care of yourself, Softy.

Goodbye.

(engines revving in street) >> Hello, Della?

Yeah, Mrs. Williams wasn't able to go with me.

Now, while I'm gone, you see that she gets her roses every morning.

That's right.

But this time, on all the cards put, "Love from Softy."

Yeah, S-O-F-T-Y.

Hello.

You must be Jim Torrence.

>> Yeah, that's me.

>> Walt: I'm Walt Williams.

Hiya, Jim.

>> Hi.

Where's Irene?

>> Oh, she's a little under the weather at the last minute.

Worst luck.

>> Oh, that's too bad.

I was hoping I'd see her.

>> I'm disappointed, too.

Where's your luggage?

>> Oh, I'm wearing it.

Less trouble that way.

>> Irene tells me you're heading for Illinois.

>> Yeah.

>> Going been a little rough, huh?

>> I haven't exactly been worried about my income tax.

>> What's your line, Jim?

>> Oh, guess I'm a better salesman than anything else.

>> Hmm.

You know, I can give you a couple letters when you get back to Chicago, that might help you.

>> That's fine.

A good lead with the top brass never hurts.

>> What outfit were you with?

>> Patton's Third Army.

>> How was it?

>> Rough.

Except for the time in Italy.

I kind of liked it there.

>> Patton's outfit never got to Italy.

>> Of course.

(Walt chuckling) But most civilians never know or care, and I figured you didn't either.

>> Well, I fooled you that time.

(brake clicks) Our last chance to chow for a while.

How about it?

>> Jim: No, thanks, I grabbed a hamburger while I was waiting for you.

I can still taste the harness.

(Walt laughs) >> Sure you won't change your mind?

>> Jim: Nah, I'm gonna grab a little shut-eye.

>> Right.

(door thuds) Chicken sandwich and a Coke.

>> One chicken sandwich.

>> Chicken sandwich, coming up.

>> Walt: Give me change for a dollar, will you?

>> Yes, sir.

(register chimes) Thanks.

(coin bell dinging) San Francisco.

Uh, Klondike 2-6-7-1-4.

(telephone ringing) (telephone ringing) >> Operator: Klondike 2-6-7-1-4 does not answer.

>> Oh.

Well, try Sutter 1-2-5-9-9, please.

>> Bayview Apartments.

Oh, yes, Mr. Williams.

No, your maid isn't there tonight, sir.

Well, she said Mrs. Williams was taking something to make her sleep, and wasn't to be disturbed, but perhaps... >> No, no, don't disturb her.

Just leave a message that I won't forget about a certain problem.

>> Mm-hmm.

I think I have it, sir.

You want her to forget all about a certain problem.

Softy?

Is that S-O-F-T-Y, sir?

"Softy is going to take care of it thoroughly."

Is that all?

>> Yes, that's all, she'll understand.

(chuckling) Be sure she gets it the first thing in the morning.

Right.

(dramatic music) (air hissing) (crickets chirping) (Jim sighs) (door thudding) (footsteps approaching) Oh, hi, again.

It's been so long since I been behind the wheel of anything but a Caterpillar or a jeep.

I had to find out what a real buggy feels like.

>> Why don't you drive for a while?

>> Oh, swell.

>> Nothing would suit me better.

(car starting) (dramatic music) >> Tell me, Irene still got that little scar on her cheek?

>> Mm, the one she got from the fall?

Yeah, you can hardly see it now, though.

How'd you know about that?

She just got it last summer.

Thought you said you hadn't seen her for years.

>> Well, uh... From Aunt Margaret, of course.

How else?

She always sends me the news in her letters.

(dramatic music) >> Guess your Aunt Margaret will be pretty happy to see you.

Irene says you're the favorite nephew.

(Jim snickers) >> Afraid my lovely cousin was just giving me a buildup for your benefit.

>> You don't know Irene.

>> Maybe not.

(dramatic music) >> Walt: What's a matter?

>> I think we got a flat.

Yeah, it's flat as a flounder.

>> Oh.

Well, let's get to work.

Hey.

Look out there, young fella.

It's quite a drop.

(ominous music) (tool clanking) (dramatic music) >> Oh, you got a flashlight?

>> I think I have.

Get the jack I'll take a look.

(train whistle blows) Did you find it?

>> Yeah.

Yeah, it won't be long now.

(dramatic music) (train whistle blows) >> Come on, let's get going.

>> Uh, wait a minute.

Did one of your cufflinks fall off?

>> Huh?

>> Something dropped I heard it fall right down there at your feet.

>> Hm.

>> Funny, must've rolled under the car.

(ominous music) (train whistle blowing) From Irene and me, sucker.

(body thudding) (suspenseful music) (train whistling blowing) (train chugging fading) >> Hello.

(dramatic music) (tool clanks) Need a hand?

>> No, no.

I'm all set now.

>> Okay.

Good night.

(dramatic music) (suspenseful music) (dramatic music) >> Keys.

(engine rumbling) >> Man: Do you need help, bub?

(suspenseful music) >> Driver: That guy must be crazy.

(suspenseful music) (truck horn blowing) (tires screeching) (Jim screaming) (suspenseful music) >> Now, in case my husband should be late, and have to rush for his plane, this'll be taken care of.

>> Thank you.

Show Mrs. Burns to 302.

(dramatic music) (gentle music) (train whistle blowing) >> Jim: Irene and me, sucker.

From Irene and me, sucker.

(train whistle blowing) (dramatic music) >> Irene: Take care of yourself.

Softy.

Softy.

(dramatic music) (typewriter bell dinging) (couple chuckling) >> Young lady.

(woman gasps) >> Excuse me.

>> I want to see Mrs. Walter Williams.

>> I'm sorry, sir, but she left orders not to be disturbed.

>> I'm sorry, too.

Lieutenant Quincy of the police department.

(telephone ringing) (telephone ringing) >> Hello?

I thought I left orders not to be... Oh, I see.

Ask him to come up, please.

(doorbell buzzing) Yes?

>> I'm Lieutenant Quincy with the police department.

I'm sorry to disturb you at this hour, but... May I come in?

>> Of course.

Well, Lieutenant?

>> Did your husband go on a motor trip late this afternoon?

>> Why, yes, he went to Denver on business, why?

>> Was he driving a Packard Roadster?

>> Yes.

Is anything wrong?

>> I'm afraid there is.

Won't you sit down, please?

>> Has something happened to my husband?

>> Yes, Mrs. Williams.

>> He's dead, isn't he?

>> Yes.

>> Oh, Walt, I knew something like this would happen!

I begged him time and again not to pick up hitchhikers.

>> But it wasn't a hitchhiker, Mrs. Williams.

It was just an accident.

He ran into a truck, a gasoline truck.

>> You mean, there was fire?

>> He must've been driving pretty fast.

I don't think he felt anything after the crash.

>> If there's nothing more you need more for, Lieutenant... >> I think I understand, and may I say, you've taken this with a great deal of courage.

Good night, Mrs. Williams.

(door creaking) (dramatic music) >> Irene: Take care of yourself, Softy.

>> From Irene and me.

>> Softy, Softy, Softy.

>> Sucker, sucker.

>> Softy, Softy.

>> Ready?

>> Yeah.

>> That Williams must've been quite a guy.

>> Yeah, he went to work for Universal Motors as a sheet metal worker.

>> Mm-hmm.

>> In less than 10 years, he's their top production man.

>> Well, he sure went out in a blaze of glory.

>> Yeah, ah, let's go.

(truck starting) (dramatic music) >> Softy, Softy.

>> From Irene and me.

>> Softy, Softy, Softy.

>> Sucker, sucker, sucker.

(suspenseful music) >> Well, could Mr. Burns have taken a later plane and still make connections for Mexico City?

I see.

Thank you.

(knocking on door) Yes?

>> Su Lin: Here's some telegrams for Taitai.

>> Just put them under the door, Su Lin.

(knocking on door) >> Su Lin: Please, Taitai.

A policeman, Quincy, most anxious to see you.

>> Ask him to wait, Su Lin.

(dramatic music) >> Mrs. Williams will see you presently.

Will wait, please.

(door buzzing) >> Flowers for Mrs. Walter Williams.

>> Thank you.

Roses, like Mr. Williams always sending when he's away.

>> You seem to have been very fond of Mr. Williams.

>> Su Lin is honored to have served him five years and he-- (door creaking) >> I'm sorry to keep you waiting, Lieutenant.

>> I wouldn't be disturbing you again if it wasn't necessary, and I won't be keeping you but a moment.

>> You're being very considerate.

Won't you sit down?

Everyone's been most thoughtful.

>> And why shouldn't they be?

(Irene sobbing) >> Oh, forgive me.

I'm all right now.

What was it, Lieutenant?

>> The state police would like to have some information.

They found some wavy skid marks for quite a distance on the road, as if the car had been out of control when it crashed.

Tell me, was Mr. Williams a reckless driver?

>> Why, no, he was a fast driver, but certainly not reckless.

>> Well, was he a heavy drinker?

>> (scoffs) Quite the contrary.

>> But what about his health?

Could he have had a heart attack and lost consciousness before the accident?

>> Why, no, he was in perfect health, but he'd been working much too hard lately and was overtired.

Perhaps he fell asleep at the wheel last night.

Oh, poor darling.

If only I'd been able to go with him last night, he might still be alive.

>> Well, maybe so and maybe not.

You mustn't blame yourself, Mrs. Williams.

Fate plays an important part in these matters.

Your handkerchief.

(Irene sobbing) (dramatic music) (telegraph clicking) >> When's the next train to San Francisco?

>> 10:00 a.m., tomorrow.

>> Are you sure there isn't one sooner?

>> No, I'm sorry.

(telegraph clicking) (coins dropping) >> Operator: We have a circuit now, sir.

>> Operator: Evanston.

>> Operator: Calling Mrs. Margaret Hubbard's residence in Evanston.

>> Operator: One moment, please.

(telephone trilling) >> Margaret: Hello?

>> Operator: Mrs. Margaret Hubbard?

>> Margret: Yes, who's this?

>> Operator: Long distance.

I have a call from Mr. James Torrence.

>> Margaret: Who?

>> Operator: Mr. James Torrence.

>> He's a nephew, Jim Torrence.

>> Operator: The call is for your nephew, Jim Torrence.

>> Margaret: I haven't any nephew, and I don't know any Jim Torrence.

(line clicks) >> Operator: Sir, Mrs. Hubbard says she doesn't know the name.

(suspenseful music) (dramatic music) (Walt sobbing) >> What's the matter, son?

Looks like you need a doctor.

>> A doctor?

>> I can't leave the station, but old Doc Bender's just across the road there.

>> Yeah.

Doctor.

>> Think you can make it?

>> Yeah, I'll make it.

>> Now take it easy, man.

There's some concussion there.

You've gotta watch your step for a while.

>> Yeah.

(dramatic music) "Walter Williams' beautiful widow "who by her own request sat alone "in the family alcove during the service."

(dramatic music) Smart.

Someone might've caught her licking her chops.

(suspenseful music) >> Hey, what's that?

"Walter Williams."

>> Walter Will-- Hey, ain't that the guy that... For the love of Mike, what's that briefcase doing here he's dead.

>> They did him a dirty trick if he ain't.

>> Hey, now, wait a minute.

Don't touch it.

We better turn it over to the police.

(dramatic music) (intercom buzzing) >> Homicide, Captain Callahan.

Oh, yes, Chief.

The dupe just came in from Washington.

The fingerprints were those of a James Torrence.

Yeah, I'm putting Quincy on it.

Right.

>> Looks like it opens up a new can of peas on the Williams accident.

>> There's the FBI report on the guy.

Playing with ladies' affections seems to come natural to him.

All you gotta do, Quincy, is find him.

>> Yes, that's all I gotta do.

Last known whereabouts of Jim Torrence was in a moving van somewhere between Sacramento and points east.

Now, wait a minute, wait a minute.

Last known address, care of his sister, Mrs. Joseph Rosetti, Irving Apartments, Berkeley.

Well, what are you waiting for, Quincy, let's go.

Did Torrence leave any forwarding address?

>> No, he said he was going to send it to me.

>> Sorry to trouble you.

>> Oh, uh, Lieutenant.

If you should happen to hear from him, will you let me know?

There's an unpaid telephone bill and a bundle of laundry.

>> Laundry?

Let's have a look.

I may have to take this along with me.

>> Not without a receipt, you don't.

>> You mean, you don't trust the police?

>> In my business, you don't trust anybody.

>> Mine, too.

Holy St. Valentine's Day.

>> Landlady: Look, he had the same thing on his shirts, too.

(dramatic music) >> Well, well, romance in your late tenant's life.

Did you ever see the lady?

>> You know, I never did.

But I always knew when she'd been here, the wonderful perfume.

>> I lay you 10 to one she's a rich widow.

>> Could be.

Wait, I'll get you his telephone bill.

>> Pretty fancy stuff for a hitchhiker.

>> Yeah, but he's a pretty fancy hitchhiker.

According to the shirt maker, a certain lady in the town had these made special, and they're just like her husband's.

Only his initials were W.W.

Sort of smells, don't it, Cal?

Now take a look at this little item that was also found in the laundry.

"I" for Irene and "W" for... Well, it could be for Williams, too, couldn't it?

(telephone ringing) >> Yeah.

Homicide, Callahan speaking.

>> Hello?

Oh, hello, Fritz.

Hello.

What news?

Oh-ho?

Any luck?

Both days, huh?

Swell.

Have it typed up and sign it.

This report of Fritz will be a nice little topper for this pile.

His checkup shows calls from Torrence's phone to Williams' private number, and a flock of them going the other way, including one on the seventh and several on the eighth.

The eighth, in case you've forgotten, is the date of Walt Williams' accidental death.

>> Well, that ought to be enough to get an indictment out of the grand jury.

Go pick her up.

>> I'd like to play a long shot first.

It might give us two for one.

>> Well, take them one at a time.

A bird in the hand-- >> Is not going to lead us to its mate.

I'd like to give the lady a little more rope.

>> Well-- >> Thanks.

I thought you'd agree.

(dramatic music) (door buzzing) >> Well, Lieutenant, you just caught me, I was-- >> I'm glad, I have some rather startling news I thought you should know before it hits the headlines.

>> Come in.

>> Tom: Thank you.

>> Sit down, won't you, Lieutenant?

>> Thank you.

>> I'm very anxious to hear about this news.

>> It seems that your first hunch, remember, that a hitchhiker was responsible for your husband's death?

Well, Mrs. Williams, you may have been right.

>> Why, I don't understand.

>> Your husband's briefcase turned up in Kansas City yesterday.

In a moving van that had stopped at the scene of the accident that night.

Apparently, the murderer made his getaway in it.

That explains the wavy skid marks that made us suspect your husband was ill or unconscious at the time of the crash.

>> Yes, I suppose it does, and by now, the man is probably out of the country and never will be found.

>> Don't you worry, Mrs. Williams.

There were fingerprints on that briefcase, and as soon as we get the FBI report from Washington, his identify will be known and his description sent out on police broadcast.

Oh, we'll find him, all right.

But just know we're keeping things quiet, so the murderer will feel safe until we are ready to close in on him.

>> Yes, I can see the wisdom of that.

>> Yes, I thought you would understand and cooperate.

As soon as we know his name, it is possible that you might recognize it as someone with a motive.

There's that possibility.

>> You know, I'll do everything I can to help.

>> I'm sure of it.

Now I'll run along.

You'll hear from me.

I'll let myself out, don't bother, and don't worry.

Good day.

(dramatic music) (trolley bell clanging) (telegraph clacking) >> Clerk: $1.35.

>> See, everything after the letter "J" in the first name has been obliterated by heavy writing over it.

The only impress letters legible are those between words or before them.

Like R-N-S at the end of this name here, and the Hotel Santa here before the word Evanston.

>> Well, Tom, don't you think it's about time you retired?

Why, there isn't even evidence there of Mrs. Williams intent to communicate with Torrence.

>> And who do you think she beat a path to the telegraph office to wire to?

The League of Decency?

>> I'll tell you what I think.

That you should've brought her in when I first told you to.

By the time we get her now, she'd have figured out a way to tip Torrence off.

He'd be that much tougher to find.

>> Not unless she's tipped him off from your office.

Ernie's got her on ice waiting for you.

(door thuds) (gentle music) (dog barking) >> Pretty good, huh?

Fastest growing little town in Idaho.

(dog barking) (birds chirping) (tool thudding) >> Have a heart, son, you trying to wreck that engine?

Oh.

>> Sure, it's a hobby of mine.

>> The way you're going at it, you can't miss.

Here.

I just can't let you ruin that beautiful motor.

Start her up.

Okay, start her up.

(car revving) (engine rattles) Shut her off.

(engine shuts off) >> You're certainly not a mechanic by trade.

Hands like that.

>> Maybe it's a hobby of mine.

>> Gee, what happened to your head?

>> Perhaps I was talking when I should've been listening, okay?

>> Okay by me.

Thanks a lot, Hill.

>> So long, Marsha.

>> Bye.

>> She's all right now.

You better lay off, though, till the boss gets back.

>> I'm the boss.

(chuckling) I guess the new cars are a little bit over my head.

Now with a jalopy, it's different.

>> Aren't there any mechanics around her you can hire?

>> No, they all went over to the new factory in Mansville.

I guess, they got better wages.

>> Tough break.

>> Yeah.

How much do I owe you?

>> Oh, forget it.

Well, I'll be shoving along.

>> At least have a Coke on the house.

You might as well.

>> Marsha, can I use your phone a minute, please?

>> Sure, help yourself, Uncle Ben.

>> It never rains, but it pours.

6-5-0, please.

Flat tire this morning.

Now the danged engine's stalled on me.

>> Nice and cold.

>> Wilson's Garage?

No, I did not give you the wrong number.

>> Fine thing using my phone to cheat me out of repair bills.

Aren't you ashamed?

>> They gave me the wrong number.

6-5-0, please.

You're a nice girl, Marsha Peters, and your ma's a fine woman, and I'll always buy my gas and oil here.

But you ain't never gonna tinker with my car again.

Busy?

Busy, always busy.

>> Wait a minute, we're not so busy.

Would you like to do another good deed, and give Uncle Ben a hand?

>> Why not?

Where is your car, Mister?

Maybe I can help you.

>> Are you a good mechanic?

>> Very good and very reasonable.

>> Well, just what you need, girl.

Better hire him.

>> It's an idea, Uncle Ben.

>> Come on.

>> Thanks for the Coke.

>> Sure.

(birds chirping) >> Well, I got Uncle Ben fixed up, all right.

Nothing but a sticky carburetor valve, bye.

>> I hope he paid you.

>> What for, it only took a minute.

>> You're certainly not money conscious, stranger.

>> Here.

This is no kind of work for a girl.

>> Somebody has to do it if I wanna stay in business, and I want to.

>> Must be some business that you're better suited for.

Couldn't you lease this place to somebody?

>> Sure, I did while my husband was overseas.

But when he was killed in Okinawa... Well, we'd made a lot of plans for the future here, and I had a hunch he'd like it if I took over and tried to make a go of it.

>> Takes more than a hunch to do that.

>> I got along famously.

Business has been fine until lately, when the help got short.

Could be again, if I had a good mechanic.

>> Yeah.

You sure need one, all right.

>> Well, for Pete's sake, say yes or no.

Do you want the job or don't you?

>> You mean you'd hire me without knowing anything about me?

>> (laughs) You can repair automobiles.

What else do I need to know except your name?

Well?

>> Why not?

Sure, I'll try it for a while till you get someone permanent.

The name's Bill Walker.

>> Okay, Bill, it's a deal, and maybe if business gets real good, you'll wanna stay.

>> Well, don't count on it.

Where's this go, on the rack?

>> Yeah.

(engine revs) (horn honking) >> Marsha!

Marsha, it happened!

It's a boy, eight and half pounds!

Pair of shoulders like a prize fighter.

>> Well, congratulations, papa!

How's Jane?

>> Ah, perfect!

Everything's perfect.

Gotta get down to the store and tell the gang!

(engine idles) Almost forgot.

>> Oh, gee, thanks, Ed!

I'm sorry, I won't have enough for the gang.

Yippee!

(engine revs) >> Maybe you can use this token from the slightly delirious new father.

>> Thanks.

>> Say, we haven't settled the matter of wages yet.

Maybe I can't pay your regular salary.

>> Suppose we leave that open until you find out how much I'm worth to the business.

Doesn't seem to be any business right now.

Might be a good time for me to get rid of this beard and find a place to board.

>> We live right next door.

I'll go ask Mom.

She'll know of a place.

>> Sort of a peaceful house.

I noticed it this morning.

>> Oh, gosh, I forgot, she's down helping Mrs. Wesley with her canning.

Mom finds homes for everything from stray cats... >> To stray mechanics?

>> Well, you're not a stray anymore.

I'll go phone.

Pearl?

6-7-4, please.

Hello, Mrs. Wesley, may I speak to Mother?

Hi, Mom.

I've got some good news for you.

I hired a man for the station.

Yeah.

(laughs) No.

Nobody we know, he's from...

He's from out of town.

Needs a place to board.

You got a good one up your sleeve?

(chuckling) Okay.

Says she has to meet you first.

To come home for supper.

Huh?

And do you like apple or cherry pie?

>> Cherry.

>> Cherry it is, Mom.

See you later.

>> Now I gotta get rid of this.

Hey, where's the nearest barbershop?

>> The one and only, just up two blocks.

Tell Judd you're working for me.

When you get back, we'll close up and go home.

>> Thanks.

(dramatic music) >> Well, that's real nice.

You must've had a good bringing up, young man.

>> Thank you for the young man.

>> We thank thee oh, Lord, for thy bounty, and ask thy blessing on this food, and on the new friend who shares it with us.

I hope you're good and hungry, Mr. Walker.

>> Who wouldn't be?

>> Well, Marsha eats like a sparrow, with all the hard work she does, too.

May I have your plate, please?

>> Well, she can start taking it easy now, and boss the help.

Thank you.

>> She never takes anything easy.

Has to put her whole heart and soul into everything she does.

>> Well, now that you're through with me, Mom, how about Bill?

Have you thought of a place for him to stay?

>> Well, why can't he stay right here?

We have a spare bedroom going to waste, and I think you'll like my cooking.

>> Like it?

That's very kind of you, Mrs. King, but it seems an imposition.

>> Imposition, nothing!

That's good business.

I can get back what I pay you in board and room.

>> Oh, Marsha, what a thing to say.

If you'd like to stay, we'd like to have you.

Will you have some more vegetables?

Thank you.

Mrs. King, you have a boarder.

May I have a biscuit, please?

>> Excuse me.

(dramatic music) >> Okay, Miss Schulz.

(car revving) (tool clicks) It's wonderful the way tools seem to come alive in your hands.

You seem to sort of come alive, too.

As though you got real pleasure out of working with them.

>> I do.

When you're doing a job with them, you can't think of anything else.

>> Bill, if something's bothering you, why don't you get rid of it?

(gentle music) >> What would you prescribe, doctor?

>> Amputation for that stupid chip on your shoulder.

(tool clicks) >> What you need is a ring job.

Save yourself some money.

>> (sighs) Gee, Bill, with the baby and everything, I just can't afford it now.

>> Oh, we'll take care of that.

Hey, boss, how's Ed's credit?

Good enough for a ring job?

>> Well, sure, if I can hold junior as collateral.

>> Ed: Oh, not a chance, fella.

>> Nevermind her, I'll do it on my own time.

>> Oh, thanks, Bill.

Maybe we'll see you tonight, huh?

(car revving) Some shoulders, huh?

>> Yeah.

(laughs) >> Some father, huh?

Bye, Marsha.

>> Bye, Marsha.

>> Bye.

>> Nice kids.

Hey, was Ed clowning about their being hard-up?

>> No, things have been pretty tough for him ever since he got out of the service.

Fix the car for him, Bill, and only charge him for the labor, okay?

>> Then he gets it for free.

I'd already figured on knocking that off.

Say, we could make it an anniversary present.

>> Anniversary of what?

>> Junior's arrival and mine, three month's ago today.

>> (laughs) Time certainly flies.

That was a lucky day when you came to MP Service.

Your work's been bringing in a lot of business.

>> I'm glad of that.

Hated to have fallen down on Mom and you.

Say, look, boss, why don't we three celebrate tonight and go to the movies?

Ed said he and Jane were going.

>> Well, that lets Mom out.

She'll be babysitting.

I'd love to go, Bill, I haven't been in ages.

>> Here's your opportunity.

(bell ringing) Go to work.

>> Get your paper!

>> Extra, extra!

>> Newsboys: Irene Williams' held for murder.

>> Read all about it!

>> Extra, extra, Irene.

>> This is Sheila Graham with the latest news of the shocking Williams murder case.

While beautiful Irene Williams is held for trial, charged with conspiring to kill her late husband, the police are searching for James Torrence, believed to be the lover of Mrs. Williams and her partner in the horrible murder of Walter Williams.

(engines revving) (horn honking) >> If I'm handling your case, my dear Mrs. Williams, I want one-third of everything you get.

>> You're out of your mind.

You don't realize what I'll get as Walt's widow.

>> Perhaps you don't realize the spot you're in.

Torrence's fingerprints were found not only on your husband's briefcase, but, in a manner of speaking, on your reputation, as well.

There's a detective named Quincy, a very smart cookie.

He isn't exactly for you.

>> Frankly, Mr. Warner, I'm beginning to wonder if my attorney is for me.

>> Underestimating the enemy's ammunition would scarcely be wise.

Now, if we can get to trial before Torrence is found, they'll never get a conviction.

But.

>> But what?

>> Warner: If he shows up, we may have to fry him.

>> Oh, no.

>> Let's not cross that bridge until we have to.

But if it comes to a choice, we're not going to burn, are we?

(bright music) >> Aren't you the chatterbox this afternoon?

>> What about this afternoon?

Oh, I'm sorry, boss, I guess I was wool gathering.

>> You're only supposed to do that in the spring.

>> Is there anything you don't know?

>> Yes, what's San Francisco got that we haven't?

>> Better newspapers, for one thing.

Anyway, California's supposed to be the land of opportunity.

>> I thought that by now you liked it here.

>> I do very much.

It's a good town, nice people.

Swell boss.

>> Thanks.

We like you too.

No fooling, Bill, you'd be surprised how many people ask questions about you.

>> What kind of questions?

>> Oh, where you came from.

Do you have any family, and do you like it here, and are you going to stay?

Al Knox asked me at the movie last night if you wanted to join the volunteer fire department.

Just interested, friendly things.

>> I suppose it is natural for people to wonder about a stranger who moves into their community.

Like I did.

You know, I've been thinking.

Maybe it wasn't such a good idea, you and I going to the movies last night.

It's all right being seen in the station and here with Mom, but... >> Oh, you get used to that in a town this size.

They're always trying to marry people off.

You just ignore it.

After a while, they forget about it.

I'll go get cleaned up for supper.

(gentle music) (dramatic music) (gentle music) (church bells ringing) (bright music) (birds chirping) >> Bill: You know, I'd hate to tell you how many years this Sunday takes me back.

>> Did you always fall asleep during the sermon?

>> Bill: I wasn't asleep, Mrs. Peters.

I merely closed my eyes to concentrate.

>> Oh, so that's what you call it.

I had to nudge you to stop you from nodding.

>> Bill: Quiet.

You're disturbing my reminiscent mood.

Even smells the same.

Could be the same bees buzzing in the same clover.

>> As they say, you can take a boy out of the country, but-- >> Bill: A rolling stone gathers no moss.

>> It has to stop rolling sometime, doesn't it, Bill?

>> Sometime, maybe.

>> We grow a very becoming shade of moss here in Larkspur.

Don't you think?

>> Bill: You grow a lot of nice things here.

>> Anyone in particular?

>> You'll have to skip the answer to that one.

Someone tore it out of the book.

>> You're married, aren't you, Bill?

>> Yep, that's right.

>> You must've loved her very much to have been hurt so deeply.

To be so afraid of someone, even yourself.

>> Maybe it's better that way.

Then no one gets hurt.

>> Bitterness and hatred hurt everyone.

Can't you see, Bill?

They're like a wall that shuts out all the sunshine from a garden and lets everything wither.

Make room in your heart for something else, can't you?

>> I guess this is my day for sermons.

>> Sorry.

As Mom would say, "You never get rich minding the other fella's business."

(alarm sounding) (suspenseful music) >> Hey, that's a fire!

I'll be seeing you.

(suspenseful music) (alarm blaring) (suspenseful music) (siren blaring) (siren blaring) Anybody home?

>> Mom: In here, Bill.

>> Mrs. Wesley sent a couple of jars of peaches.

Said you helped her can them.

>> Oh, thank you.

>> When I delivered the doc's car, he insisted that I have a bite with him.

Where's the boss?

>> Mrs. Peters: Took a book back to the library for me.

>> Oh.

(gentle music) What a day.

Hey, what's the idea?

Are you darning my socks?

>> Well, I thought a drawer full of holey ones isn't doing you much good.

I found it when I put fresh papers in your bureau yesterday.

(dramatic music) You have a heap of things that need mending, haven't you, son?

>> Does Marsha know?

>> Do you think I'd tell her?

This is your problem, Bill.

Because I found out about it, doesn't give me the right to tell anyone else, not even Marsha.

When you trust folks, you trust them, and you give them a chance to work out things the way that seems right to them.

(dramatic music) >> How can one little woman be so big?

>> Don't forget, it's a lot easier to be tolerant and understanding at 50 than it is at 25.

>> Yeah, Ma.

>> I'm going next door for a while.

Grandma Thompson's ill. (door thuds) (dramatic music) >> Marsha: Oh, Mom?

(footsteps approaching) Bill, are you home?

Bill, are you in there?

>> Yeah.

Mom went next door, Marsha.

>> Hi, did you work awfully late?

>> Oh, about 6:00.

>> Anything wrong?

>> Come in, I wanna tell you something.

I'm checking out.

>> Has something happened?

>> No, just...

I'm doing what I should've done a long time ago.

Moving along.

>> But why, Bill?

My name isn't even Bill.

There isn't any Bill Walker.

I'm Walter Williams.

The late Walter Williams.

>> Walter Williams?

I don't understand.

>> You may not even after I've told you, but at least you'll know the whole story.

Sit down, please.

(dramatic music) Finally, Larkspur, and you.

From there on, you know.

>> I'm glad you're going back to make things right.

>> Going back?

Wild horses couldn't drag me back.

>> What are you gonna do about your wife?

>> Nothing.

>> You're gonna let her go to trial for murder?

Oh, no, Bill.

>> Why not?

She tried to kill me, she and her cousin.

>> But they didn't.

>> Who says they didn't?

Let them try and prove it.

>> No matter what your wife did, she can't be tried for something that didn't happen.

Oh, Bill, can't you see?

>> You bet I can see.

She deserves everything she's getting.

Sorry part of it is they'll never convict her.

>> No, Bill, the sorry part is you're not big enough to take a hard jolt to your pride and to your ego.

Sure it hurts to be tricked and cheated by someone you loved and believed in, but that doesn't give you the right to take justice into your own hands, to trample on the hearts of others and walk out on life.

>> A barren, frustrated boyhood, a marriage to a woman who accepted my love, yet despised me so thoroughly, she resorted to murder.

I'll never think of our moments together without nausea.

I feel stripped bare, degraded.

>> Because you've closed your mind and heart to everything else!

Even me.

Oh, Bill, please.

Don't destroy the one chance we have for happiness.

>> We haven't got a chance.

Doing the right thing never works out.

I know.

In this world, you turn the other cheek, and you get hit with a lug wrench.

Forget me, boss.

Try and forgive me.

(dramatic music) (dramatic music) (train bells ringing) (Walt sighs) (baby crying) >> Ed: It's a boy!

Pair of shoulders like a prize fighter!

>> Walter: You know, I hate to tell you how many years this Sunday takes me back.

>> Mom: You have a heap of things that need mending, haven't you, son?

(gentle music) (train whistle blowing) >> Irene: Take care of yourself, Softy.

>> From Irene and me.

>> Softy, Softy, Softy.

>> Jim: Sucker, sucker.

>> Marsha: You're not big enough to take a hard jolt to your pride and to your ego.

Sure, it hurts to be tricked and cheated by someone you loved and believed in.

But that doesn't give you the right to take justice into your own hands, trample on the hearts of others and walk out on life.

Oh, Bill, please.

Don't destroy the once chance we have for happiness.

(bright music) (dramatic music) (police whistle blows) (suspenseful music) >> Mrs. Peters was kind enough to come along to substantiate at least the Larkspur portion of what I've told you.

>> Callahan: Very thoughtful of you, Mrs. Peters.

>> Mr. Williams, when you read in the newspaper that the hitchhiker who attacked you had been, well, a close friend of your wife for sometime, it must've been a great shock to you.

>> I didn't come here to discuss my emotional reactions, Lieutenant.

If you need me for anything further, Captain, my office will know where to reach me.

Let's go, Marsha.

>> Just a minute, Mr. Williams.

We'll need your signed statement for the grand jury when we ask for your wife's release.

It won't take long to be typed.

(intercom buzzing) Yeah?

All right.

(dramatic music) Come in.

Sit down.

Mrs. Williams, we have news for you.

(ominous music) >> Irene: Really?

I can scarcely wait.

(dramatic music) (suspenseful music) >> It seems it was Torrence, who was in the car when it crashed.

(dramatic music) >> Jim?

Dead?

(suspenseful music) You did it.

You killed him.

>> No.

He tried to kill me.

Thought he had.

And he ran into the truck.

It was an accident.

>> An accident?

You wait all these months to tell this story.

You let me rot in this filthy jail.

>> Wait a minute!

>> You let everybody believe you're dead!

Pretty convenient, wasn't it?

A dead man can't be tried for murder.

>> Mr. Williams, perhaps your wife would understand better if you would explain to her about the amnesia.

>> Amnesia?

Oh, don't tell me you believe he had amnesia.

Where's he been all this time, just wandering around in a daze?

>> He tells us he's been in Larkspur, a little town in Idaho, working as a mechanic in a service station, run by Mrs. Peters here.

>> I understand perfectly.

Now that my chance for happiness is dead, I suppose you'll demand the divorce I begged you to give me, so that I could marry Jim.

>> That's fantastic.

>> Yes, isn't it.

After you telling us that the man you picked up was a perfect stranger.

>> Well, that's not true.

The time and place for meeting Jim had all been arranged!

>> I must advise you.

There's a law that a wife can't testify against her husband.

>> There's a law against murder too, but that didn't stop him, and nothing's going to stop me until I'm through!

>> It's all right with me, Captain.

Go on, talk your head off.

>> I was to have gone with him to Denver.

He insisted on it.

Although, I was quite ill. Several hours before we were to leave, he came home.

There was a violent scene.

He threatened to kill me unless I agreed to give up Jim, and I wish he had.

>> This is incredible.

Not one word that she has said is true.

>> Then you have nothing to worry about.

Mrs. Williams, was there a witness to the threat you mentioned?

>> No, unless the maid overheard.

She was in the apartment.

In fact, she picked up the pieces of the vase that he threw at me.

>> Where is she now?

>> I don't know.

She left me suddenly after all this began.

Please, could the questions wait?

I feel rather ill. >> Will you have Mrs. Williams ready for the grand jury, 10 o'clock tomorrow morning?

That's all.

We're gonna hold you too, Williams.

>> On what charge?

>> Callahan: Suspicion of murder.

>> But he's not guilty of any of these things.

>> Callahan: Then it should be easy for him to prove it.

Take him down and book him.

>> That fiction of Mrs. Williams must've been very convincing.

>> No, we just couldn't buy that yarn you tried to sell us.

Let's go.

(newsmen chattering) >> Walter Williams alive!

Read all about it!

>> Extra, extra!

>> Read all about it!

>> Read all about it!

>> Extra, extra!

Williams held for murder!

Read all about it!

(newsmen chattering) >> Newsman: Extra get your paper!

Walter Williams charged with murdering wife's lover!

Extra, get your paper!

Irene Williams goes free, husband held!

Extra, get your paper.

Wife free in murder charge.

Walter Williams charged with murdering wife's lover.

>> And Daley's gonna cover William's office.

>> Okay, boys, hop to it.

I want all I can get by 10:00 a.m. tomorrow for the grand jury.

>> Okay, Chief.

>> Oh, Tom.

Don't miss a bit.

Dig up everything you can on Williams and the Peters dame.

>> You sort of believed Irene Williams' story, didn't you?

>> She made better sense than he did.

>> Well, sure, she's a better liar then he is.

Don't forget, I went all through her grieving widowhood with her.

She's a bad customer.

>> Well, that's for the grand jury to decide, and Williams insisted on letting her talk, so it's his funeral.

>> Funeral, all right.

Especially with that yarn he told.

But murder is out of character for him.

There's a few pieces missing somewhere.

>> They might be in Idaho.

If it's not too much out of character for you to get going.

>> You're going to miss me, Cal, when I retire next year.

Maybe I'll turn private eye and solve your cases for you.

(Tom laughing) >> Hiya, Williams.

>> Mr. Williams, thanks.

>> Sort of deal from the bottom here, don't you?

>> Photographer: Sorry, Williams.

>> Officer: Okay, Williams.

>> Walt: Well, not very good news, judging from your faces.

>> Well, Walt, the grand jury returned an indictment against you.

Mrs. Williams was released.

>> I see.

>> Now don't you worry, Walt.

We'll have you back at work where you're needed and in short order.

Come on, Eldredge, there's a visitor waiting far more attractive than we old fogies.

We're just leaving, Mrs. Peters.

But remember, don't hesitate to call on me for anything.

>> Thank you so much.

>> Darcy: Good.

(gentle music) >> Hi, boss.

>> Marsha: Bill, what have I done to you?

If it weren't for me, you wouldn't be here.

>> If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be.

I came back here because I wanted to believe in the things you do.

I still do, no matter what happens.

Will you do something for me?

>> Hmm?

>> Walt: Go back home where I know you'll be taken care of.

>> Not a chance.

You'll have to think up a better reason than that to get rid of me.

I'm a big girl now.

>> I've just been to Larkspur, Williams, where I found these newspaper clippings.

Of course, some of them are three months old, but you seem to treasure them so I brought them along.

>> So?

>> I don't think they exactly substantiate your claim of amnesia.

>> As if you were interested in substantiating any claim of mine.

>> Now let's get one thing straight.

Most people, when they get in a jam think the police are only interested in the prosecution.

Our job is to get the facts, the truth, and the truth never hurt anyone but the fellow that lied.

>> Unless he was a beautiful woman.

>> Oh, quit kidding yourself, Williams.

You made the boner.

>> I had no more to do with Torrence death than you did.

>> And out of the whole population of Northern California, you just happen to pick up a hitchhiker who happened to be your wife's boyfriend.

Ah, have a heart, Williams.

I suppose you'll tell the truth when you take the stand, but you better have some mighty conclusive proof if you expect the jury to believe it.

>> Wait, Lieutenant.

Bill, we all know you're not guilty.

But we're gonna need help to prove it and need it badly.

Lieutenant Quincy can't take sides, but if we're right, he has to be on ours, and I have a hunch he wants to be.

Why don't you tell him the whole story?

All of it, please.

>> I'd like to.

Quincy, very much.

Guess I should've told the whole truth in the first place.

But I wanted to clean this mess up with as little scandal as possible.

(birds twittering) >> Well?

>> No sign of the lug wrench or anything.

>> My dear, Mrs. Peters, will you please stop trying to be a detective.

How many times do you think the police have combed this spot for any kind of evidence?

Now be a nice girl, take Mr. Williams' advice, go back to Larkspur.

>> What time is it?

It's only 4:00.

We still have time to go back to town and go on a hunt for Su Lin.

>> Now look here, young woman.

You've had me on the run since early morn.

>> But, Lieutenant, the maid seems to be our only hope now.

We've gotta keep looking till we find her, that's all.

>> That's all?

>> Wait.

She was naturalized, wasn't she?

>> Suffering chopsticks.

Quincy, you dumb flatfoot.

This Su, Su what's her name, was Chinese born.

If her port of entry was San Francisco, there'd still be a file on her, photo and all.

Let's go.

Back to town.

Immigration.

(dramatic music) I hope the Council has given us the right lead.

(doorbell jingling) Are you Ah Sing?

Understand?

You stand the English?

>> Also French, Italian, and Hebrew.

May one ask what is desired?

>> Tom: We're looking for Su Lin Chung.

The Chinese Council said you were her uncle, and might tell us where she is.

>> This daughter of my brother, has she offended the honorable police?

>> Marsha: Oh, no, they just wanted to ask her some questions about Mr. Williams, the man she used to work for.

>> Ah Sing's heart is heavy that he cannot lead you to her.

But things that are not known cannot be told.

>> Tom: Well, if you hear anything of her, report it to headquarters.

(door creaking) (dramatic music) >> Su Lin, untruth is not good for soul, and not wisdom when told to policeman.

>> Better for the soul to be kind than to be wise.

Su Lin must keep silence to help in this matter.

(gentle music) >> You know, you're quite a gal, in case I haven't told you lately.

>> You're just too easily pleased, that's all.

There must be a way out.

Why can't we find it?

>> Oh, buck up, boss.

Tomorrow's another day.

>> Yes, the day you go to trial.

>> Oh, Bill, I'm afraid.

>> And the state intends to prove beyond any reasonable doubt, that the defendant, Walter Williams, did, with malice of forethought, kill the deceased, James Torrence whom he knew to be his wife's lover.

And then with his victim dead beside him, he drove his car into the course of an oncoming truck, jumping clear himself some seconds prior to the crash.

And subsequently, he made his getaway in the back of a loaded furniture van.

And for three months, as Bill Walker, he laughed at justice for it imprisoned his unfaithful wife for conspiracy in his own murder.

But then he decided that being dead cramped his style.

He thought he could eat his cake and have it too.

So he returned, most anxious to explain his long absence and to right the dreadful mistake that had imprisoned his wife for three months.

Ladies and gentlemen, it was a cold-blooded, premeditated murder and must be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Call the first witness, please.

(courtroom chatter) Captain Callahan, did Walter Williams tell you what suddenly cured his amnesia after three months?

>> No, he did not.

>> But he did tell you the man that struck the blow which caused the amnesia was a total stranger, a hitchhiker he had picked up.

>> Yes.

>> And that he knew nothing of this man's identity or relationship with his wife until he suddenly recovered from his amnesia and heard or read the details.

>> That's what he said.

>> That's all, thank you, captain.

Your witness, counselor.

>> No questions.

>> No, I saw no signs of amnesia, but definite concussion.

He was a bit evasive in answering questions, but not vague or unsure.

>> Prosecutor: In your opinion, doctor, could this head injury have been caused by a fall?

>> Yes.

If the head had struck on some object such as a stone or a metal pipe.

>> That's all, thank you.

Your witness.

>> Dr. Bender, are you familiar with a tool known as a lug wrench for changing automobile wheels?

>> I'm afraid I am, sir.

I've had a regular epidemic of flat tires lately.

>> Well, then, in your opinion, could this head injury, which you treated, have been caused by a blow from a lug wrench?

>> Yes, it could've been caused by that too.

>> Thank you, doctor.

>> The ones with the earliest dates, you will notice, are heavily creased as though they'd been carried in a wallet or a coat pocket.

Thank you.

Lieutenant Quincy, will you kindly tell the court where you found these newspaper clippings?

>> In the bedroom occupied by Mr. Williams in Mrs. Peters' home in Larkspur, Idaho.

>> Prosecutor: Is this your handwriting, Miss Revere?

>> Yes, sir, and that's the message.

At least our record carbon of it.

>> Would you read it to the court, please?

>> "June 9, 8:32 p.m. "Message for Mrs. Walter Williams, Penthouse D. "Mr. Williams called, said he wants you to forget "all about a certain problem.

"That Softy is going to take care of it thoroughly."

>> Was there any other conversation?

>> Well, I just asked if that was all, and he said, "Yes, she'll understand."

And sort of laughed as if it were a joke and hung up.

>> Some joke, killing the wife's boyfriend.

(all laughing) (gavel pounding) (courtroom chatter) (gavel banging) >> Reporter: The state versus Walter Williams.

All the rounds, so far, have gone to the prosecution, and it was a grim-faced Williams who was returned to his cell this afternoon.

What the score will be after he takes the stand is anybody's guess, but he's going to need some lucky punches to get a decision.

>> And though Torrence struck with intent to kill after telling you, "This is from Irene and me, sucker," you still telephoned Illinois to find out if there was a cousin Jim?

(scoffs) You are hard to convince, aren't you, Mr. Williams?

>> Is it so incredible that a man should fight against believing such a thing about his wife?

>> Oh, that is very touching.

From a husband who planned a trip on which he intended to destroy his wife and did kill her lover.

>> That's a lie.

>> Your honor, I object to the conclusions drawn by the prosecutor and move that it be stricken from the records.

>> Prosecutor: But, Your Honor, there is a corpus delicti, remember?

It was your wife's lover.

>> Judge: Objection sustained.

>> Prosecutor: There is also her own story which, in front of witnesses, you insisted she tell, and then we have your own two different stories from your own lips.

One featuring a perfectly strange hitchhiker.

The second, an equally strange cousin Jim.

Without a questionable substantiation for either bit of fiction.

(dramatic music) >> Su Lin!

Follow that yellow cab.

(dramatic music) (tires screeching) >> Please hurry.

(suspenseful music) (brakes squealing) >> Wait for me.

(suspenseful music) Su Lin!

(dramatic music) Su Lin!

(dramatic music) Ah Sing.

You remember me, don't you?

I was here with Lieutenant Quincy from the police department.

I just followed Su Lin up the stairs.

I saw her come in here.

>> You must be mistaken.

>> I'm not mistaken, she's here.

I must see her.

Ah Sing, don't you understand?

It's to save a man from prison, even from death.

(Marsha panting) >> I will send her to you.

(Ah Sing speaking foreign language) (Su Lin speaking foreign language) Oh, Su Lin, we've been looking for you all these weeks.

Mr. Williams needs your help so desperately.

>> I cannot help.

You must forget that you found Su Lin.

>> Forget it?

But you're his only witness.

You're the only one that can help.

>> Not as a witness.

Only with silence can I repay his great kindness to me and my family in China.

>> Why?

>> For I heard other things that most unhappy day.

From Mrs. Williams' bedroom, his voice very loud and angry.

A flower vase broken to pieces.

>> He can explain all that.

>> They do not believe what he's already told.

That I heard anything would do harm.

Don't you see?

>> Yes.

>> Much sorrow comes from women who know not honor and truth, and Mrs. Williams, she's not true even to that Torrence man.

>> What makes you say that?

>> That night when he was killed, her sickness was but wall of falsehood behind which she could go secretly to a meeting place.

>> You mean she went out that night?

Su Lin are you sure?

>> Yes, because next morning in her bedroom, I found street shoes that had been worn.

Her coat on the closet floor with the sleeves turned inside out as though removed hurriedly, and in one pocket, a door key to some hotel-- >> Su Lin, that's it.

Proof that she and Torrence had planned to meet that night after he killed Mr. Williams.

What hotel was it?

>> Oh, I don't remember.

>> The key, what did you do with it?

>> Returned to coat pocket.

>> Come on, we'll get to Lieutenant Quincy.

He'll know what to do, and pray, Su Lin, every step of the way.

(dramatic music) >> Now hold everything.

Even if this long-shot don't work out, we'll just keep on pitching.

(Su Lin speaking in foreign language) >> Here it is, yes.

>> Room 302, Airport Hotel Oakland.

>> Maybe we got our miracle.

>> Especially a Chinese one.

>> This is the hope that Su Lin was of small help to Mr. Williams.

>> Oh, Su Lin.

>> Come on, copper.

Next stop, Oakland.

A certain little lady's hotel rendezvous.

>> I was on night duty then, all right, but I sure don't remember a looker like this.

Quite a dish, eh?

>> A little too highly seasoned for my digestion, thanks.

>> Lieutenant, I just found a couple of cards for room 302 on June 9th.

>> "Judge Baxter, checked out at noon.

"Mr. and Mrs. J. Burns.

"Room not slept in."

J. Burns?

Burns?

>> Look, Quincy, the handwriting on the card is identical to that on the photograph.

>> And here's a little more of the same thing.

The cover-up telegram to Aunt Margaret.

Now look at the impressions.

"J" here, and here "R-N-S." J. Burns, that's the name she started a telegram to.

>> Room not slept in.

Say, I got the dame pegged now, Lieutenant.

She said they'd be out of the room by midnight as her husband was catching a plane.

>> But Quincy.

>> Reservation Sam Andrews.

>> This ties it all up, doesn't it?

>> Yeah, like a greased pig.

>> What do you mean we've got the evidence now, the proof.

>> Of what?

Su Lin's theory that Irene was playing the field?

This evidence only proves that she came here to keep a date with a man named Burns.

We can't even prove that he didn't keep the date.

>> But you know he didn't.

There wasn't any Burns.

It was only a name that she and Torrence used.

>> Fine, if you can prove that, Williams will be free.

But none of this will prove it.

Sorry, copper, but we are just up another blind alley.

>> Willie?

>> Yes, sir?

>> There's a couple of sample cases for Mr. Sam Andrews, came up from the station this morning.

Take them to parlor B right away.

>> Willie: Sure thing, sir.

(tense music) (gavel pounding) >> Be seated.

The case of the State versus Walter Williams.

>> Proceed, Mr. Eldredge.

>> Your Honor, we will call Mrs. Irene Williams.

(gavel pounding) (people muttering) >> Judge: Take the stand, Mrs. Williams.

(courtroom chatter) >> Raise your right hand.

Do you solemnly swear that the testimony you're about to give in this court to be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you God?

>> Irene: I do.

>> Hey, what cooks?

The defense calling her?

>> Mr. Eldredge, what's the purpose in calling this witness?

>> Merely for purpose of identifying handwriting.

Now, Mrs. Williams.

This photograph of you.

>> Was stolen from my apartment.

>> So?

According to the inscription, "To Walt, my adoring and adored husband, Irene," this belongs to Mr. Williams.

This is your handwriting, isn't it?

>> Of course.

I'm touched that he should've wanted it so badly.

>> And this telegram addressed to Mrs. Margaret Hubbard.

Is that also your handwriting?

>> It is.

>> Now Mrs. Burns, I mean, Mrs. Williams, This photograph is inscribed, "To Jim, my adoring and adored, Irene."

Did you write this too?

>> I see no point in all this!

>> Judge: Merely answer counsel's questions.

Did you write it?

>> I did.

>> And these letters addressed to Mr. James Torrence did you write them?

>> Yes!

>> And this monogrammed garment, a gift from you to Mr. Torrence?

>> Why must I be tortured again by all this?

I never made any secret of my love for Jim Torrence.

That's why he's dead.

>> Your love for Jim Torrence.

Yet, on the very night he was killed, you had a rendezvous with a man named Burns, didn't you?

>> I don't know what you're talking about.

I don't know any man named Burns.

I was at home that night, very ill. >> Oh, yes, the sleeping pills.

Well, you must walk in your sleep then, for you spent at least part of that night at the Airport Hotel in Oakland where you registered for Mr. and Mrs. J. Burns.

Don't waste the court's time trying to deny it.

This is the registration card that you signed at 9:20 p.m, and there's the room clerk who assigned you to room 302.

And this, Mrs. Williams, is the key to room 302 which you very carelessly left in the pocket of a coat which was found in your closet yesterday.

>> All right, I was there, now are you satisfied?

>> Not quite.

This J. Burns, Mrs. Williams, is his first name Jack?

>> Yes.

>> Have you been in contact with him lately?

>> No, no.

>> How long since you've seen or heard from this Jack Burns?

>> Well, I don't know, I don't remember!

>> You bet she doesn't remember because there isn't any Jack Burns and there never was.

That was an alias for Jim Torrence, and it was Torrence who was to have met you that night after your charming little plot to kill your husband had been duly executed.

>> It's not true, it's not true.

>> I have bad news for you, Mrs. Williams.

I can prove it's true.

These pajamas, these letters, this picture, all of which you identified for the court, were found in this suitcase which is full of the clothes and personal belongings of Mr. James Torrence.

And the suitcase was found in the baggage room of the Airport Hotel, where it's been held since June 9th.

And it says on this tag in large print, "Hold for Jack Burns."

That is all, Mrs. Williams.

>> Just a moment, Mrs. Williams.

Your Honor, in view of the evidence presented, we now ask for a dismissal of the State's case against Walter Williams, and we intend to charge Irene Williams with conspiracy to commit murder against her husband, Walter Williams.

>> Oh, no!

(dramatic music) >> Judge: The case against Walter Williams dismissed.

Court adjourned until two o'clock.

(bright music) >> Well, that's that, Walt.

>> Congratulations, Mr. Williams.

>> I haven't the words for it, Quincy, but we could never have made it without you.

>> Ah, sure you could.

You know, son, right always wins if you give it a little push, especially when you got a copper like this one to do the pushing.

Well, I'll be seeing you.

You know, it'll seem kind of strange being able to eat and sleep without someone getting in your hair all the time.

>> Oh, fine, Walt.

We're looking forward to having your hand on the wheel again.

The Denver plants are waiting for you to open them.

Do you think you can make it in the morning?

>> How about it, counselor?

>> You bet you can.

>> Oh, good.

Well, I'll be running along.

>> Well, do you think you'd like Denver?

>> It's okay by me, boss.

>> Narrator: Yes, impact.

The force with which two lives can come together, sometimes for evil, sometimes for good.

(dramatic music) (gentle music)