Down Three Dark Streets (1954) Movie Script
[orchestral music]
[narrator]
Four words best known
by three initials-- FBI--
letters that spell out
the internal security
of the nation.
Behind those doors,
your guardians.
At their command, the most
advanced and complete
scientific assistance
known to man.
But often, more important
than science
is the intelligence,
the imagination
of the individual agent,
the FBI man.
The FBI man, with his special
knowledge of human weakness
and his ability
to probe that weakness
and thus trap the criminal
into his own betrayal.
On Highway 91,
heading into California...
[tires squealing]
Fill 'er up?
Ethyl?
Operator, this is Ben
down at the gas station.
I want you to call
the FBI.
Tell 'em I'm putting gas
into Joe Walpo's car.
Joe Walpo.
His license number--
Uh, okay, Mom.
I'll-- I'll-- I'll
see-- see you later.
Bye, Mom.
Uh, I was just calling--
[gunshots]
[narrator]
Within a half hour
of the brutal slaying
at the gas station,
the FBI had alerted each
of its 49 field offices.
Special instructions were sent
to one office in particular--
Los Angeles, California.
[typewriter bell dings]
The urgent alert on Joe Walpo
becomes one of many cases
that daily crosses the busy
desk of Frank Pace,
the special agent in charge.
His job-- to direct
and coordinate
the complex work
in the field offices.
Here, the case is evaluated
and analyzed
with the care of experience.
Then, it is given to
Agent John Ripley,
the superintendent in charge
of the criminal desk.
His job-- to supervise
the investigation
of all criminal cases
handled by the special
agents in the office.
[overlapping chatter]
Now look, Vince,
we're gonna crack this case
with or without your help.
I'm gonna ask you
once more.
Come on, let's go.
We'll be late.
Angelino!
Maybe the car thieves
you work for won't mind you
sitting in San Quentin
three to five years,
but you've got a wife.
Look, I know-- I know
I've got a wife.
Okay, I'm finished with him.
How'd you make out
with Angelino?
I didn't.
Still afraid
to talk, huh?
Oh, this just came
in from Washington.
Huh.
I'll get right on it.
Rip, call Margaret
for me
and tell her I won't
be home for dinner.
Yeah, sure.
[narrator]
Although Agent Stewart
has been assigned
the Walpo case,
he still continues to
investigate
the Angelino file.
Like all agents at the FBI,
Stewart handles
several unrelated cases
at the same time.
Working that night
on his two active cases,
he brought himself up to date
on Joe Walpo's long record
of hijacking,
bank robbery, and murder,
and as he reanalyzed
the history
of interstate car thefts
involving the Angelino boy,
ten miles away in a quiet
residential neighborhood,
a telephone operator
plugged in his third case.
[ringing]
Hello?
Hello?
[man]
Mrs. Martell?
Yes.
You've got a little
girl named Vicki.
Who is this?
You wouldn't want anything
to happen to her,
would you, Mrs. Martell?
What do you want?
You just listen.
I want that 10,000
insurance money
your husband left you.
You're insane.
You must be
out of your mind.
Shut up.
I suggest
you just listen
if you want to keep
that kid alive.
I want that money.
I'll tell you later how,
when, and where to take it.
Uh...
Mrs. Martell,
just a word of advice--
don't tell anyone about
this call
or I'll kill
your little girl.
[receiver clicks]
[gasping]
Operator, operat--Mommy, mommy.
Yes, baby.
Yes?
It's all right--
I had a dream.
Now go back to sleep.
Are you going to bed?
Yes, in a little while.
Go to sleep.
[stuffed toy squeaking]
[man whistling a tune]
[phone ringing]
Stewart speaking.
I got a phone call
a few minutes ago.
[inhales sharply]
Take your time.
A man said he'd kill
my little girl
if I didn't give him
my insurance money.
May I have your name,
please, and your address?
Mrs. Katherine Martell.
1157 Sampson.
Phone number,
Mrs. Martell?
It's Dunkirk 2-1-1-9-9.
He warned me
not to call anyone.
He said-- You did the right thing.
Where can I see you
in the morning?
Can't you come tonight?
It wouldn't be advisable,
Mrs. Martell.
Besides, there's
no need to worry tonight.
Well, you can come
to my office.
I'm a buyer at Ohrbach's.
Fine, I'll be there
at 9:00.
Will you make out a list
of everyone you know
and everyone
you have dealings with?
Yes, I will.
Mrs. Martell,
I assure you,
we'll be doing everything
we can to help you.
Thank you, Mr. Stewart.
[whistle tweeting]
Mrs. Martell?
Oh, yes?
I'm Zack Stewart, the agent
you talked to last night.
Oh, thank you
very much for coming.
Would you like to
sit down, please?
Thank you.
It was all
so frightening.
I know-- I have a couple
of youngsters myself.
The voice on the phone,
Mrs. Martell,
did it tell you anything
about the person?
You know, young or old,
man or woman?
No.
No, but I'm sure
it was disguised.
It-- it sounded
so peculiar.
I keep asking myself who.
All night long,
I kept saying, who--
who would want to do
such a thing?
You spoke of
insurance money?
Yes.
My husband's.
He was killed in
an automobile accident.
He left me $10,000.
It could be anyone
that knows about it--
an acquaintance,
even a repairman
or delivery boy.
Do you have that list
I asked you for?
Yes.
You've included
everyone?
Family, friends?Oh, no.
It could be someone
close to you.
No.
You must include
everyone, Mrs. Martell.
Have the materials I ordered
come in yet, Kate?
You know I was promised.
All right, Henry,
you'll get them tomorrow.
Tomorrow?
You said tomorrow
two days ago.
Please, Henry,
I'm busy.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
[door closes]
This isn't like me,
going to pieces like this,
but every time
the phone rings, I jump,
just not knowing when
he's gonna call again.
That's the pattern of
extortion, Mrs. Martell,
to frighten you
to the point
you'll do
whatever he wants.
But we won't let him.
I know, I know, you sat
on the edge of your bed
and watched her
all night.
I did that once
when my little boy
had scarlet fever.
I'll be all right.
Sure you will.
But for your own
peace of mind,
we've placed your house
under surveillance.
[narrator]
Without disturbing the normal
routine of the neighborhood,
Agent Stewart arranged
the procurement
of identification
on every person
entering or leaving
Kate Martell's apartment.
Agent Stewart received
Mrs. Martell's permission
to intercept
every telephone message.
He supervised preparations
to take down the next call
from the extortionist
word for word.
Meanwhile,
Agent Stewart's attention
was required by
his two other cases.
"To all agents,
a firearms shoot
has been arranged
for September 30th."
Too fast for you?[phone rings]
Ripley speaking.
I'd like to speak
to Agent Stewart.
He's not in right now.
Can I help you?
No, I want to speak
to him personally
because, well, it's about
one of his cases.
Well, he'll be back
pretty soon.
Can he call you? No.
And I can't come
to your office.
Ca-- Can he come here?
Your name, please?
Your name, please?
Brenda Ralles.
Can he come here
about 11:00 tonight?
11:00?
Couldn't you make it
a little bit earlier?
Brenda Ralles.
No, not before 11:00.
I'll be alone then.
What's your address?
1210 North Drexell.
1210 North Drexell.
All right, we'll see you
tonight, Mrs. Ralles.
The fellows are there.Hi, Rip.
10:56.That's close enough.
Let's go.
[doorbell buzzing]
[knocking]
Mrs. Brenda Ralles?
I'm Special Agent Ripley.
This is--No, please go away.
We have an appointment
with Brenda Ralles
at this address.
No.[door closes]
May I come in, please?No.
Leave me alone!
[music intensifies]
[gunshot]
What happened?
I'm with the FBI.
Keep everybody
out of the alley.
Yes, sir.
Who was with you
a few minutes ago?
[dialing phone number]
Operator,
get me the police.
Emergency.
Who was it, Ms. Ralles?
This is Ripley, FBI.
An agent was killed
in an alley
in the back of
1210 North Drexell.
Right.
[narrator]
The murder of Agent Stewart
fell under the
immediate jurisdiction
of the local police.
Accordingly, Brenda Ralles
was removed to headquarters,
where Lieutenant Kuppol
of Homicide
was unable to pierce
the armor of fear
left by the killer.
Come on, come on,
Ms. Ralles.
[crying]
How much longer do you think
you can try our patience?
[crying]
In her condition,
it'd be best--
best to take her home and
let her get some sleep,
make her think we've
finished with her
while we tail her
around the clock.
Frank, we'll sweat at this
as if Zack had been
one of our men.
Fine, Jake.
This was his night
with his kids, too.
Rip.
Yes?
That girl in there,
she called about
one of Zack's cases,
but which one?
There's Walpo, Martell,
and, uh...
Angelino.
One of them ties in
with Zack's murder.
The sooner all three cases
are concluded,
the sooner we'll know
his killer.
I'm turning over
those three cases to you.
Let's call it a night.
Come on.
[narrator]
By morning, Agent Ripley
had thoroughly analyzed
all three of
Zack Stewart's cases.
One of them held
the clue to his killer.
The first to be investigated
was the Joe Walpo case
in which Agent Stewart had
been trying to develop
a lead to the fugitive
through his girlfriend,
Connie Anderson.
[music playing]
[doorbell rings]
[turns volume down]
FBI.
Okay, you're in.
The bar's over there.
Help yourself.
Thanks.
You Boy Scouts
got names?
Yes, I'm Ripley,
and this is Mr. Barker.
I suppose
it's about Joe Walpo.
That's right.
Why don't you ask
the bloodhound who was
here yesterday?
He was killed last night.
Oh, that's tough.
Do you mind if I
put something on?
I don't like men staring
at me before lunch.
I don't care for the eyes--
or have you gotten that far?
Who killed your pal?
[Ripley]
We thought you could
help us on that.
Me, help you?
That would be good
for a laugh.
What time was he killed?
11:00.
That lets me off.
I was at the stadium,
rooting for Gonzalez.
Poor slob got knocked out
in the last round.
And I was sitting in my
usual Wednesday night seat,
Row 10, Aisle B.
Everybody there saw me.
You can't pin anything
on me.
Okay, then, now that
business is over,
maybe we can get
a little informal.
Yeah, let's talk
about Walpo.
Ooh, to begin with, you're
supposed to phone up.
I was nice enough
to let you in.
Like I told the guy
yesterday,
Joe Walpo
is only a name to me,
so go on and beat it!
There's a lot
I'd rather do
than waste my time
talking to you.
Walpo put your name
on the prison records
to notify
in case of illness.
So what?
He gives you presents.
All right,
maybe you're the type,
you'd understand.
Try me.
You said
he gave me presents.
Well, sure, he did.
And I knew where the
presents were coming from,
and I didn't want to stop
him or his presents.
You know why?Why?
[needle scratches record,
music stops]
Your kid's living in
a five-buck hall closet
with a straw mattress,
and a guy like Joe Walpo
looks at you,
you fall hard.
You think it'll last
forever,
like one of them watches
you don't have to wind.
Only busted...
and he's sure done
a lot of winding.
Phone us when you hear
from Walpo, will you?
Sure.Thanks.
For what?
Oh, uh, one more
question, Miss Anderson.
Yeah?
Who is Brenda Ralles?
I never watch
those quiz shows.
You don't know her?Nope.
[narrator]
The second of
Agent Stewart's cases
revolved around
Vince Angelino,
the boy who chose to go
to the federal penitentiary
rather than reveal
the names
of the car-stealing gang
who hired him.
[kids shouting]
Pizza?Lasagna.
[knocking]
[narrator]
Agent Stewart had been
trying to get to Angelino
through his wife,
Julie.
Mrs. Angelino?Yes?
We're from the FBI.
We'd like to talk to you.Come in.
I'm Mr. Barker,
and this is Mr. Ripley.
Hello.How do you do?
Would you come inside?Thank you.
I understand
one of our agents
talked to you
yesterday.
Yes, Mr. Stewart did.
Won't you sit down?
Mr. Stewart
was killed last night.
Killed?
Not because
of my husband?
We don't know yet.
That's why we'd like
to have your help.
We'd like to
have you recall
your conversation with him
if you can.
He was so--
so understanding.
I'm so sorry
to hear it.
Did he have
a family?
A wife and two kids.
Poor woman.
I'll tell you just
what I told him.
My husband didn't
steal the car.
I think you
must have told him
a little bit more than
that, Mrs. Angelino.
I've gone over it
again and again,
hoping I would
find something
that would prove
he's innocent.
That night
when it happened,
Vince was nervous,
worried.
So many bills to pay
and out of his job,
he thought he would
sleep better
if he got some fresh air.
He walked down
to the drugstore--
you probably don't care
about small things
like that.
That's where you're wrong.
Any small detail
will help us.
Well, a little later,
Mrs. Tellini
knocked on the door.
She has a phone.
Vince had called her
to tell me
he met a man
at the drugstore.
The man had
offered him $50
to drive a car
to Las Vegas.
What man?
What was his name?
Mr. Stewart
asked me that--
if Vince had told me
anything about the man--
what he looked like
or his name or anything,
and I told him no.
Vince had never heard of
him before he called.
When you talked to
Mr. Stewart,
did he say anything that
might lead you to think
that he had a clue
to the man's identity?
No, I don't
remember anything,
but I keep praying that
you'll find the man,
because when you do,
it will prove that
Vince was innocent.
[clock chiming]
Oh, dear,
I didn't think.
The sun must be
right in your eyes.
Sorry.
It was very
inconsiderate of me.
How long have you been
blind, Mrs. Angelino?
Since I was 14.
It must be
kind of difficult here,
all by yourself.
No.
It's just this waiting
for Vince to come back.
Thank you
for your cooperation.
Uh, do you know a woman
by the name
of Brenda Ralles?
Brenda Ralles?Mm-hmm.
No, I'm sure I don't.
Thank you.
Good-bye.
Mr. Ripley.Yes?
Please be careful.
If somebody killed
Mr. Stewart
because he came here
and talked to me,
then you could be
in danger.
Thank you very much,
Mrs. Angelino.
I'll be careful.
Good-bye.
[door closes]
[narrator]
Agent Stewart's third case
dealt with the target
of an extortionist.
Mrs. Martell?
Are you Mr. Ripley?
Yeah, that's right.
I was stunned
when I heard
about Mr. Stewart's
death.
You don't believe it had
anything to do with--
We don't know yet.
I hope the fish and chips are
as good as they used to be.
Ah, go on and enjoy
your lunch, will you?
Thank you.
That list you gave
Mr. Stewart--
are you sure you didn't
leave anybody off of it?
No, I don't believe so.
I--What's the matter?
Is somebody coming?
Yes, and he'll probably
want to join us.
All right, relax now.
Just take it easy.
Kate!
Well, well-- small
world department.
Hello, Dave.Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean
to butt in.
Oh, that's all right.
My name is Ripley.Millson.
Dave Millson.
I was just talking over
my new fall line
with Mrs. Martell here.
You can join us--
that is,
if you're not
a competitor.
Me?
[laughing]
I can't tell a hem
from a gusset--
whatever a gusset is.
Dave's a friend
of the family.
Yep, good old Dave,
friend of the family.
That's me.
Well, I--
I won't horn in.
I hope you make
a sale, Mr. Ripley.
Thanks very much.
So long, Kate.
So long, Dave.
Dave Millson,
real estate broker,
bachelor friend
of your husband.
You must have
memorized the list.
By the way,
do you know a girl
by the name
of Brenda Ralles?
Brenda Ralles?
No, I-- I don't
believe I know her.
No, I didn't!
I tell you, I didn't!
Look, I'll meet you
in half an hour.
[narrator]
Three cases, one murder,
and Agent Ripley had yet
to link Brenda Ralles
to one of these cases
which were within
his jurisdiction.
Therefore, the girl,
the principal lead
to the murder
of Agent Stewart
was still under the surveillance
of the police department.
This is the latest
in two-way stretchers.
I'd like to try it on.Surely.
The dressing rooms
are right over there.
Yes, I know.
May I help you, sir?
Uh, yeah, give me
one of those.
What size
does your wife wear?
It's not for my wife.Oh?
Uh, say,
is there another exit
to that dressing room
over there?
Yes, there's
a back stairway.
It's a great place to lose her--
in a girdle department.
You didn't stop
and try one on, did you?
You could use one.
Look, Jake, I lost her
in the dressing room.
Suddenly,
he gets modest.
I'll talk to you later.Yes, sir.
Sorry, Rip.
Grant's really
a good man.
Yeah, great.
Get me Harrison.
If you need
any more men, I--
It's all right.
Harry, how many men have
you got out on Ralles?
[Harry]
Six cars.
That's not enough!
What are you saving up
for, an earthquake?
Look, I want the all-points
hot and heavy.
Now get on it!
[phone ringing]
[ringing]
I'm coming, I'm coming.
Just a minute.
I'll take that,
Mrs. Downes.
Hello?
[Vicki]
Mommy!
Who?
Wrong number.
[Vicki]
Mommy!
Yes, baby.
Look!
Well, what is it?
It's a picture of you.
Oh, well, it looks
just like me.
But it isn't
finished yet.
Oh, so it isn't.
I'll tell you what--
you finish it
while Mommy gets
ready for dinner, huh?
[kiss]
Uncle Max,
I asked you to knock.
You'd think
I was a stranger
instead of a member
of the family.
What is it now?
That old hag
you call a housekeeper.
What about her?
You should get rid
of her, Katherine.
You know, me and Vicki
were doing all right.
Vicki's a little girl.
She needs
a woman's attention.
The way she bosses in the
house when you're not around.
Treats me like
an outsider.
Look, Uncle Max, I work
hard all day long.
I need Mrs. Downes.
Wasting Bill's
insurance money that way.
Well, at least I'm not
wasting it on horses.
Does that bother you?
Never seemed to
bother Bill.
You needn't set
a place for me tonight.
I know when I'm not
welcome.
Mrs. Downes.
Mrs. Downes.
If Uncle Max ever wants to
take Vicki somewhere
when I'm not at home--
anyplace--
she's not to go.
You understand.I understand.
And so,
the little princess
lived happily ever after.
Now, you go to sleep
and I'll see you
tomorrow morning
at breakfast, all right?
Good night.
[knocking on door]
Who is it?
It's Dave.
Am I early?
Well, you'd better
hurry up and get dressed.
Honey, anything goes
tonight-- you name it.
The Coconut Grove,
a show, the Palladium,
Ocean Park.
Or we can stay right
here and make popcorn
and hold hands.
I'm sorry, Dave,
I completely forgot
about our date.
Oh?
It's been
one of those days.
I feel kind of low.
Well, all the more reason
I should stick around
and cheer you up.
Well, Dave, I--
I just wouldn't be
good company.
Now, you don't
have to do a thing.
I'll pop the corn,
show you my best card trick.
Can I take a rain check?
I'm a great little
cheerer-upper.
Please, Dave.Okay.
But before I go, let me
tell you the news.
I sold a house
in Brentwood.
Biggest deal so far.That's fine, Dave.
That's just fine.
Well, aren't you gonna
congratulate me?
[popcorn spilling]
I'd have rather you
fought me off, Katie.
Anything but you
just standing there.
That's all right.
Mrs. Downes
will clean it up.
You're really sore,
aren't you?
Let's say I won't be
if you go now.
And let's just say
I had one too many.
Let's say that,
and all is forgiven.
Nice going, Katie.
You break the date,
and I have to be
the one who's forgiven.
Dave, I--
Good evening, Kate.
Oh, hello, Alex,
come in.
Anything wrong?
No, no, you just
surprised me, that's all.
Martha told me to return
the sugar she borrowed.
Oh, thanks, but she
needn't have bothered you.
There is something
wrong, isn't there?
I had another argument
with Uncle Max.
I know, Kate.
I realize
he's an old man
and he did help us
get started,
bought us furniture.
Has he ever let you
forget it?
If only he'd stop
complaining.
He's got his health,
makes enough money to
lose on the horses.
Let him find some
other place to live.
I don't know, I--
I suppose you're right.
See?
I'm the kind of man
who can work out
everybody's problems
except his own.
Well, I'd better
get back.
Mother's got one of her
crying spells again,
only worse.
Keeps telling me to
ask for a raise.
Hah! A raise.
A lot she knows.
People my age can
only ask for so much.
That's true, Alex.
Hmm, I'll be
seeing you, Kate.
Oh, by the way,
I know a good stock.
Oh, thanks, Alex,
but I think I'll keep
the money in the bank.
That's the safest thing.
Good night, Kate.
Good night, Alex.
[music intensifies]
This is everything
she owns, Jake.
Didn't find a photograph,
a letter, nothing.
She played it solo.
So we're all finished
with you, Mr. Werker.
Oh, I thought
I'd wait around
for the reporters
and the photographers.
They may want to
take my picture.
The Chronicleis down
the street, two blocks.
That was an awful
shock, you know,
finding her body.
I'm not a well man.
I fell off a roof once,
and all my insides
got shoved up two inches.
My stomach's up against
my liver,
my liver's up
against my gallbladder,
and my gallbladder's
between my stomach
and my lungs.
[phone ringing]
Besides which,
I got a bad heart.
Yeah?
You think they'd want
to take my picture?
After all,
a sick man like me
finding that girl,
huh?
I'd certainly
think so.
Thanks, George.
You ought to see
my X-rays.
The doctor says
he doesn't know
why I'm alive.
Yeah.
That was ballistics.
The bullet they took
from Brenda Ralles
was fired
from a .357 Magnum,
the same gun
that killed Zack.
[narrator]
Three cases, two murders.
And the only known killer
connected to those cases
was Joe Walpo.
Miss Anderson was placed
under an around-the-clock
surveillance,
and even in the seclusion
of her own apartment,
when her actions
could only be surmised,
every move she made was of
possible significance.
The waste paper from
Miss Anderson's apartment
was segregated
and picked up daily.
The FBI wanted that
piece of gift wrapping.
It was forwarded
to Washington.
Skilled technicians
took it in charge.
They unearthed
a single fingerprint--
Joe Walpo's.
Another clue was hidden
in the watermark.
The FBI has 17,000
watermarks on file.
Each one is the signature
of the manufacturer.
The gift wrapping
bore the imprint
of the Northco
Paper Company,
a small plant devoted
exclusively to gift wrappings.
At the Northco plant,
an agent questioned
the superintendent.
This paper was rolled
sometime between
September 1st and 12th.
How can you tell?From the watermark.
Can you tell me where you
sold this particular roll?
Sure thing.
Excuse me.
[narrator]
The search for Joe Walpo
by scientific analysis
was but one method
being employed by the FBI.
At the same time,
Agents Ripley and Barker
undertook to reach
the fugitive
through another method--
their precise understanding
of human emotions
and weaknesses.
[doorbell rings]
Well, if it isn't
Buster again.
I was beginning
to feel neglected.
I'm alone, Rover boy.
You know,
if only you were.
Have a drink?No, thanks.
Make yourself
comfortable.
Thank you.
Looks like
we'll save time.
I don't know any more
about Joe Walpo
than I did before.
We didn't say you did.
As a matter of fact,
we owe you an apology.
Come again?
You see, we were going
along on the theory
that you were still
Walpo's girlfriend.
We were wrong.
A couple of things
had us fooled.
One, you never went out
with other men in this town.
Well, who told you that?
We figured you were afraid
Walpo would find out about it.
I go out.
I go out plenty.
He still
sends you presents.
Why not?
Joe doesn't forget
an old friend.
An old friend?
Well, no, that's right,
he doesn't.
What do you think
you're doing?
You know, it's funny
how a man's taste
changes with time.
This was a girl who was
questioned in Denver
a couple days ago.
What am I supposed to do,
break out in a rash?
No, I just thought maybe
you were still interested
in Joe's activities.
That's her right here.
Take a look.
She's cafe society.
That's funny.
I always thought
Joe liked blondes.
You can paste her
on your wall.
She's not my type.
Well...
Would you like to hear
something very interesting?
[static]
[man speaking on tape]
This is an official
transcription
of an interview with
Miss Barbara Carmichael
recorded in the Federal
Building in Denver, Colorado.
Do you mind?
Anything for a laugh.
[man speaking on tape]
Thank you for coming here
voluntarily, Miss Carmichael.
We appreciate it.
[Miss Carmichael]
Not at all.
[man]
State your full name
and address, please.
[Miss Carmichael]
Barbara Carmichael,
112 Westview Drive.
[man]
Do you live alone
at that address?
[Miss Carmichael]
Yes, ever since college.
[man]
If I show you a photograph
of Joe Walpo, Miss Carmichael,
can you identify it?
[Miss Carmichael]
Of course, only I
knew him
under the name
of Joe Allen.
Since then, I've discovered
who he really was.
[man]
How did you come
to meet him?
[Miss Carmichael]
Oh, at one nightclub
or another.
We became
very good friends.
[man]
For how long?
[Miss Carmichael]
Two or three months.
[man]
During that time,
he was your houseguest?
[Miss Carmichael]
You might call it that.
Turn that thing off!
[man]
Miss Carmichael, I...
You heard me!
Turn it off!
[man]
...bill for
a topaz necklace.
You dirty creeps!
I wish you were
both dead!
Turn it off!
[man]
When did you last
see him, Miss Carmichael?
[tape stops]
Yeah, Connie, when was
the last time you saw Walpo?
When was the last time
you saw any man?
Get out.
You lousy crumbs,
get out of here!
[shattering glass]
[music intensifies]
This is Perry.
Report to Ripley.
We're following subject
on freeway,
heading
toward Civic Center.
Yes, yes,
it's very well made.
Let me
demonstrate in a crowd.
Any ordinary crowd
will do.
Sorry, I didn't know
you were busy.
Oh, I'm glad
you're here.
Mr. Hogarth,
meet Agent Barker.
An honor and a privilege,
Mr. Barker.
Yes, Mr. Hogarth
invented this--
this-- well, this.
It works on
the same principle
as a Geiger counter,
only it finds spies,
and when it does,
this light--
this one right here,
lights up.
Yes, even people
I never suspected.
My wife's mother,
my next door neighbor,
the man who came to see me
about my taxes.
I got a light
on all of them.
[phone ringing]
The income tax
man, huh?
That's very interesting.
Ripley speaking.
I think it's working, Rip.
We tailed her
to the subway terminal,
where she's just boarded
the number three inter-urban.
Fine, we'll pick
you up en route.
Mr. Hogarth, I'm sorry,
we're gonna have to run.
Now, you take that
to the patent office.
They'll give you all
the information you need.
I think it's wonderful.
I wish we had one.
We're following north
on Glendale, now passing Oak.
We'll pick you up
at Court Street,
do drop-off there.
[narrator]
End of the line.
An isolated path in
the outermost suburbs
of the sprawling city.
[knocking]
Joe, it's Connie.
[knocking]
It's Connie, Joe.
[door unlocks]
What are you doing here?
I had to see you, Joe.
I told you I'd
let you know
when you were
supposed to come.
Nobody followed me
here, I'm sure of it.
I couldn't
wait any longer.
Aren't you glad
to see me?
I'll let you know.
Joe, remember me--
Connie?
That was a dumb
trick, coming here.
I know, but it's been
a long time, Joe.
[air hissing]
What's that?
[air hissing]
Joe!
[Connie]
Oh, let me go!
Let go!
FBI, Walpo-- come out
with your hands up.
[gunshot]
[gunfire]
Joe!
[crying]
Oh, Joe!
Oh, Joe.
[crying]
Don't touch me.
[crying]
[narrator]
Joe Walpo's file
was closed.
It's ugly record listed
a score of known crimes,
but the FBI proved
that on the night of
Agent Stewart's murder,
Walpo was in Las Vegas.
This narrowed the search
for his killer
down to the cases
involving Vince Angelino
and Kate Martell.
[phone ringing]
[ringing]
Hello?
[man]
Hello, Mrs. Martell.
Been waiting
to hear from me?
What do you
want me to do?
Okay, get the money
in small bills.
Nothing bigger than 20s.
Take it to
the Hillview Cemetery.
Cemetery?
Arrive there
at exactly 12:00.
Park 100 yards from
the entrance.
I'll be watching you.
Yes.
Then go in the cemetery
and take the path
to the right.
It leads to
the Williams Mausoleum.
Wait there five minutes,
then return to your car.
Where do you want me
to put the money?
I'll contact you.
And listen,
bring your kid.
Oh, no!
And leave her
in the car
while you're waiting
at the mausoleum.
I couldn't do that!
Nothing will happen to her
if you play ball.
You're not afraid
of cemeteries, are you?
You will be, if you
call the police.
[receiver clicks]
No mother can be expected
to do what he asks.
Leave a child alone
in a car at midnight?
I can't do it.
No mother could.
Tell me something.
What?
Do they make
these things up
for children's
clothes too?
Yes.
Why don't you borrow
one from the store
and wrap it
in a blanket.
It's gonna be dark.
He might be watching
the apartment when I leave.
It's a possibility,
but if you're carrying
something in a blanket
at night...
I'm afraid I'm gonna
crack up tonight, Mr. Ripley.
I'll bet you another
lunch you don't.
[phone ringing]
[woman]
Don't answer it.
[ringing]
Hello?
Hello?
[phone ringing]
Hello?
[dialing]
Line busy, honey?
Oh, it's--
it's all right.
Now remember
what I told you.
Don't answer the phone
and don't open the door
for anyone.
Oh, I won't.
But what about
the old man?
He has a key.
Well, I'll be home
long before Uncle Max.
Oh, well,
that's fine, honey.
You run along and have
yourself a good time.
You can depend on--
Well, what on earth?
I'll explain later.
Be an angel and don't
ask questions,
and be sure and bolt
the door after me.
Why, Kate, where
are you going
at this time of night?
I'll be right back.
Can I be of help?
No, thanks,
I can manage.
[engine starts]
[phone ringing]
[bell tolling]
[gasping]
[rustling]
Five minutes have elapsed.
Victim should be
returning to car.
You take it.
Pardon me, Miss,
can you tell me
where Logan Boulevard
comes in around here?
No, I can't.
Maybe you know where
Fordham Boulevard is.
No, I--
I don't know.
Hey, it's kind of late for
a pretty little girl like you
to be running around
all alone, isn't it?
Maybe I can give you
a lift someplace.
I'm waiting for a friend.
Maybe I'm that friend
you're waiting for.
Are you?Well, sure.
Look, honey,
supposin' you and I
go out someplace and
have a couple of drinks,
some laughs, and--
[crying]
Lady, I was
only kidding.
I didn't mean
anything by--
It's all right,
Mrs. Martell.
[crying]
He never showed up.
[crying]
He never showed up.
He didn't intend to.
That's the
extortionist's pattern,
to terrorize you.
Come on.
Come on,
I'll drive you home.
[train whistle blows]
[bell clanging]
[knocking]
Mrs. Angelino?Yes?
I got a message
for you.
I'm a friend
of your husband's.
A friend of Vince?
Oh, please come in.
Come on.You first.
What do you hear
from Vince?
He's fine.
He wrote me yesterday.
You have a message
for me?
Could I see the letter?
Mrs. Tellini has it.
I'll get--Never mind.
Just tell me
what was in it.
The usual.
He's feeling fine.
He helps
in the library.
Yeah, yeah, what
else did he say?
You said you had
a message for me.
Who are you?
What do you want?
Why did you
lock the door?
The letters you
write to Vince,
they're no good
for him.
They may
start him thinking.
He may think too much.
And if he does, I'll
shove a knife in his back!
Help me up,
will you, please?
I feel--What's the matter?
What are you doing?
I'm sorry, I can't see.[knocking on door]
Don't you say a word.
[woman]
Julie, are you home?
About those letters,
I don't like what
you put in 'em.
I write what I want!
I don't go for
this blind stuff.
To me, you're just
another broad.
Now, you're gonna do
what I tell you!
No!
I warned you!
All right.
You quit filling Vince
with all that rubbish,
or the next time,
I'll really work you over!
[door slams]
Do you think that you
could possibly
describe him to us
in some way?
He was tall, about 6'2",
and weighed around 195.
How do you know that?Uh...
I could tell his height by
where his voice came from
when I stood close to him.
And that board
in front of my door
squeaks at 160
and gets louder.
[board squeaking]
Your scales
are off four pounds.
Do you think you
could guess his age?
Oh, about 35.
Oh, anything else?
Yes, he had a deep scar
on his right cheek
and his hair was greasy
and cut very short.
He was wearing
a tweed sport coat
that must have cost a lot.
I smelled it
and I felt it too.
And another thing--
I think he's a fighter.
Why do you say that?
His left ear was, uh,
uh...you know.
Oh, cauliflowered.Yes.
Well, that should
do us. Thank you.
Mrs. Angelino,
we ought to find a place
for you in our office.
You're gonna stay
with Mrs. Tellini
tonight, aren't you?
Well, if you say so,
but don't be afraid.
I'm not.
Good-bye.
[door closes]
He's about 35, 6'2",
weighs around 195 pounds.
Got a butch haircut,
a scar on his right cheek,
and his left ear
is cauliflowered.
Might be in your racket.
I don't know him.I don't know him either.
He'd go in
for fancy clothes.
Sometimes wears
a tweed sport coat.
Oh, yeah, and he
cuts his hair short.
Sorry, champ,
doesn't ring a bell.
He weighs about
195 pounds, stands 6'2".
He's got a scar
on his right cheek
and a cauliflowered
left ear.
Yeah, I know the guy.
Used to fight prelims
a couple of years ago.
He wouldn't train,
so I dropped him.
What's his name?
You offering a reward?
Nah.
Too bad.
Nothing like a reward to
encourage good citizenship.
Thanks for the lesson
in civics.
What's his name?
Just kidding.
Ah.
His name is
Matty Pavelich.
Used to live at 1701
Parther Street, Apartment 3.
Thanks.
Look, I know my rights.
You can't go picking up
a guy for no reason.
You didn't
pay Angelino $50
to drive a car,
a car that was stolen?
Ah, go fry an egg.
I told you, no.
What is this, a frame?
Who's this Angelino guy?
What would I be doing
with stolen cars?
My nose is clean.
Keep me here much longer,
and a lawyer will slap
a sweet lawsuit against
you guys for false arrest.
We haven't arrested
you, Mr. Pavelich.
We just wanted to ask
you some questions.
Okay, okay,
so you questioned me.
I don't know nothing
from nothing.
Now, look--
You know why you've been
brought here, Mr. Angelino?
No.
Speak up, son.
You have nothing
to be afraid of.
I want you
to take a good look
at that fellow right
over there
and tell us who he is.
Go on, walk right up
to him.
Don't be afraid.
I never saw him
in my life.
Okay, are you guys
satisfied?
Your frame didn't work.
Now let me out of here.
The kid don't know me,
and I don't know him.
He paid you to
drive a stolen car,
and he's a member of
a gang
who's been
hustling hot cars
across the state line,
only you didn't know it.
Isn't that the truth?
No, I never
saw him before.
Okay, take him back.
Come on.
Okay, you got
nothing on me.
Can I go?
No, the L.A. Police
want to talk to you
about that gal you beat up
the other night.
You're crazy.
What gal?
It turned out to be
pretty serious, Pavelich.
Medical reports show
two fractured ribs,
a possible ruptured spleen,
and multiple bruises
on the face.
Jake Kuppol doesn't like
assault and battery.
You're in a real jam,
Pavelich.
She identified you.Well, you're crazy!
She couldn't, she's--Blind.
What?
Yeah, she's blind.
What did you do
to my wife, huh?
What did you do to
my wife, huh?
I'll kill you,
I'll kill you!
I'll kill you!
All right!
All right, take it easy,
kid, take it easy!
Angelino, do you want
to make a statement?
You bet I do!
You bet I do!All right.
All right, Greg,
take him out of here.
Come on, Vince.
That kid don't know
what he's talking about.
I'm admitting nothing.
This is a frame-up.
You guys don't scare me.
Let's get back
to you, Pavelich.
What about
Thursday night?
Thursday night?
What do you mean,
Thursday night?
Look, you guys
don't scare me.
Where were you
Thursday night?
Thursday night again.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
We're talking about you.
One of our men was killed
Thursday night.
Where were you Thursday?
No, I-- I didn't
kill no Fed.
I wasn't even in
California on Thursday.
I was in Arizona,
shoving hot cars.
Look, I swear I was.
I was in Arizona
on a job!
I got five witnesses
to prove it!
Sit down.
Hey, do I have to
go back?
We'll talk about that after
you've made your statement.
In there.
Julie.
[crying]
Well, I'll wire
Washington right away.
Many thanks.
Phoenix Police confirmed
Pavelich's story.
They just picked up
three of the gang.
Congratulations, Rip.Thanks.
[narrator]
The presence of Pavelich
in Phoenix, Arizona,
on the night
of Agent Stewart's killing
was definitely confirmed.
That left one open file--
the Martell case.
Agent Stewart's killer
and the extortionist
had to be one
and the same person.
Intensifying his efforts,
Agent Ripley reviewed
all information.
These are the people
connected with
Mrs. Martell's daily life
seen leaving her apartment.
First one,
Max Charles Martell,
her late husband's uncle.
Works as
a night watchman.
In 1937, he was acquitted
of a bunco charge.
In 1938, he was
tried and acquitted
of attempting to defraud
Mrs. Bella Block.
Habits, irregular.
Alex Shurk.
Bookkeeper and neighbor
of the victim.
Earns $86 a week.
His only tangible assets--
his car and furniture.
Merchant's
Credit Association
considers him a good risk.
Habits, irregular.
Dave Millson,
real estate broker.
Friend of the victim
and her late husband.
Dresses expensively
and lives beyond his means.
Has been seen
in the company of women
with known records
of soliciting.
Habits, irregular.
Louis Kello, postman.
Married 18 years,
has three children.
Habits, very regular.
Thank you very much.You're welcome.
[bike bell rings]
Hmm,
that's pretty classy.
Who sent it?Mr. Ripley.
You remember him.
You met him at the
Town and Country.
Who's he trying
to impress?
I'm getting her the
largest doll I can find.
I wonder where
I can hide it
before Vicki gets home.
Well, how about
the Shurks?
Oh, no, I don't
want to bother Alex.
You know,
he lost his job
after all these years.
Oh.
Well, don't worry.
I'll take care of it
and bring it to
the party tomorrow.
Thanks, Dave.
You know, you can
be pretty sweet
when you want to be.
I'll bet you have a lot
of fun at a keyhole.
Well, so long, Katie.
I'll stop by early
tomorrow to help you out.
You sure you don't
want to stay for dinner?
No, thanks very much.
So long, Dave.Bye.
Hmm, how you can cuddle up
to that Millson fellow,
I don't know.
It's none of your business,
Uncle Max.
Three to one, he's after
Bill's insurance money.
You're a great one
to talk.
Me?
I only wanted--You listen to me.
Stop walking
into my bedroom
and stop interfering
with Miss Downes
and stop poking your nose
into my personal life!
Bother me once more, and
you'll move out of this house,
and I mean it!
I mean
every word I say!
I should have said it
a long time ago!
Leave me alone!
[door slams]
There you are.
Here you go.
Mommy, look.Thanks, Rip.
[bike bell rings]
You can't imagine
how glad I am
that you could
come with us today.
You see all those pigeons
right over there?
Well, I see a lot of them.
Go get one for me,
will you?
I needed company.
Yeah, so did I.
You know, it's funny.
I never could
figure out
people working around
their house on weekends
or in the garden.
Not me--
I like my job.
I like to work 24 hours,
around the clock.
Just can't relax,
that's all.
I'll be glad when
I can relax again.
Everything's getting
to be such a chore.
I-- I even wonder
if I should go ahead
with Vicki's
birthday party.
I wish you would.
It'd be a great help
to us if you did.
All right.
[overlapping chatter]
Quiet now,
everybody.
It's time for
our birthday girl
to blow out
those candles.
And you're gonna make
a great big wish.
And make it a good one.
Have you made it?
Go ahead, dear,
blow them out.
You blow 'em out.
No, it's your birthday.
You can do it yourself.
All you have to do is a
great big huff and a puff.
One, two, three, hoo!
[narrator]
At Agent Ripley's
directions,
fingerprints were taken
off the glasses
used by the guests
at the party
to be forwarded by
telephoto to Washington.
The guests' conversation
was recorded
to be delivered
to an expert on semantics
for comparison with the
recording
of the telephone call
from the extortionist.
[overlapping chatter]
Now, as you know, the--
the science of semantics
can determine with rather
a high degree of accuracy
the identity of one
individual in a group
by breaking down
the various word patterns
used by each individual
in that group
and then comparing
the results.
Now I've just finished
my preliminary work
on the Martell
birthday party,
and I'm ready to compare
sentences, phrases, and words
used by guests A,
B, C, D, and E.
[phone ringing]
Hello, Mrs. Martell
speaking.
[man]
You've been talking
to the FBI.
Did you hear me?
Yes.
I know everything
that's going on.
Monday, the kid was at the
playground with the old lady.
Tuesday, at the dentist.
Wednesday, she went with
the old lady to market,
didn't she?
And last Sunday
in the park,
remember
the rubber ball?
I could have
killed her then.
Or don't you believe me?
Yes. Okay.
Then write this down,
and this time,
don't tell the FBI.
If you really love
your little girl,
get the dough.
Only 10s and 20s.
Go half a mile
up Derondo Drive.
Be there at 2:00.
Get it?
2:00.
Derondo Drive.
Park at
the "Slow Grade" sign.
You'll see
a pile of stones.
Look under the stones.
Got it?
Yes.
Remember,
keep your mouth shut.
[receiver clicks]
Mrs. Downes.
Well, what on earth?
Is Vicki asleep?Yes.
I've got to talk
to you.
What's the matter?
What's the trouble?
Somebody might kill her
if I don't give them
my insurance money
Oh, no! Who?
I don't know.
He called me
a half hour ago,
and he wants me to bring
the money to him now.
He wants me to go a half
mile up Derondo Drive.
Now, let's analyze
the various expressions
used by guests A,
B, C, D, and E at the party
and compare them to the
peculiar intensifiers
used by the extortionist.
[phone ringing]
One minute, professor.Certainly.
Pace speaking.
Yes, Mr. Cooper.
Thank you very much.
We appreciate it.
Rip, that was the head
cashier at the bank.
Kate Martell just
drew out all her money.
Let's go, Greg.
Excuse us,
Professor Wilson.
Where'd she go,
Mrs. Downes?
Out.
We know that,
but where?
She didn't say.
We know you're
devoted to her,
but right now, her life
might be in danger.
Oh, no!Every minute counts.
She said half a mile
up Derondo Drive.
Derondo.
Let's go!
The similarity
of expressions
between the extortionist
and subject A
leads us to feel there's
a strong possibility
that subject A is your
extortionist, gentlemen.
From Washington.
Number 3 print
from birthday party
identical to print
of Thomas Gibson,
questioned on
extortion charge,
Cleveland, 1946.
Using alias
Joe Connors,
questioned extortion
and assault of woman,
Philadelphia, 1948.
Using alias
Fred Thompson,
questioned extortion
and blackmail of woman,
Boston, 1950.
Number 3 print belongs
to subject A, professor.
Victim reported
heading up Derondo Drive.
We're following.
Out.
Did a green Chevy coupe
pass by here,
a young lady driving it?
Yeah,
as a matter of fact,
she stopped here
for a bit.
Where'd she go?
See that sign?
Thanks.
Let's go.
[music intensifies]
Dave!
That's right, Kate.
Good old Dave,
friend of the family.
Only I never really
knew your husband.
I first heard of him
when I read
that he'd
left you $10,0000.
You've given me
a bad time, Kate.
I had to kill
Brenda Ralles
and an FBI man to
get to this money.
Oh, no.
Oh, no.
I won't tell anyone,
I promise!
I never take chances!Let me go!
I won't tell anyone,
I prom-- no, let me go!
Help!
Help me!
[gunshots]
Mr. Jermaine will drive
you home-- come on.
Rip, I don't know
what to say.
I--Just don't say anything.
Here.Thanks.
Let's go, Rip.
Sometimes you meet some nice
people in this business.
[narrator]
Four words best known
by three initials-- FBI--
letters that spell out
the internal security
of the nation.
Behind those doors,
your guardians.
At their command, the most
advanced and complete
scientific assistance
known to man.
But often, more important
than science
is the intelligence,
the imagination
of the individual agent,
the FBI man.
The FBI man, with his special
knowledge of human weakness
and his ability
to probe that weakness
and thus trap the criminal
into his own betrayal.
On Highway 91,
heading into California...
[tires squealing]
Fill 'er up?
Ethyl?
Operator, this is Ben
down at the gas station.
I want you to call
the FBI.
Tell 'em I'm putting gas
into Joe Walpo's car.
Joe Walpo.
His license number--
Uh, okay, Mom.
I'll-- I'll-- I'll
see-- see you later.
Bye, Mom.
Uh, I was just calling--
[gunshots]
[narrator]
Within a half hour
of the brutal slaying
at the gas station,
the FBI had alerted each
of its 49 field offices.
Special instructions were sent
to one office in particular--
Los Angeles, California.
[typewriter bell dings]
The urgent alert on Joe Walpo
becomes one of many cases
that daily crosses the busy
desk of Frank Pace,
the special agent in charge.
His job-- to direct
and coordinate
the complex work
in the field offices.
Here, the case is evaluated
and analyzed
with the care of experience.
Then, it is given to
Agent John Ripley,
the superintendent in charge
of the criminal desk.
His job-- to supervise
the investigation
of all criminal cases
handled by the special
agents in the office.
[overlapping chatter]
Now look, Vince,
we're gonna crack this case
with or without your help.
I'm gonna ask you
once more.
Come on, let's go.
We'll be late.
Angelino!
Maybe the car thieves
you work for won't mind you
sitting in San Quentin
three to five years,
but you've got a wife.
Look, I know-- I know
I've got a wife.
Okay, I'm finished with him.
How'd you make out
with Angelino?
I didn't.
Still afraid
to talk, huh?
Oh, this just came
in from Washington.
Huh.
I'll get right on it.
Rip, call Margaret
for me
and tell her I won't
be home for dinner.
Yeah, sure.
[narrator]
Although Agent Stewart
has been assigned
the Walpo case,
he still continues to
investigate
the Angelino file.
Like all agents at the FBI,
Stewart handles
several unrelated cases
at the same time.
Working that night
on his two active cases,
he brought himself up to date
on Joe Walpo's long record
of hijacking,
bank robbery, and murder,
and as he reanalyzed
the history
of interstate car thefts
involving the Angelino boy,
ten miles away in a quiet
residential neighborhood,
a telephone operator
plugged in his third case.
[ringing]
Hello?
Hello?
[man]
Mrs. Martell?
Yes.
You've got a little
girl named Vicki.
Who is this?
You wouldn't want anything
to happen to her,
would you, Mrs. Martell?
What do you want?
You just listen.
I want that 10,000
insurance money
your husband left you.
You're insane.
You must be
out of your mind.
Shut up.
I suggest
you just listen
if you want to keep
that kid alive.
I want that money.
I'll tell you later how,
when, and where to take it.
Uh...
Mrs. Martell,
just a word of advice--
don't tell anyone about
this call
or I'll kill
your little girl.
[receiver clicks]
[gasping]
Operator, operat--Mommy, mommy.
Yes, baby.
Yes?
It's all right--
I had a dream.
Now go back to sleep.
Are you going to bed?
Yes, in a little while.
Go to sleep.
[stuffed toy squeaking]
[man whistling a tune]
[phone ringing]
Stewart speaking.
I got a phone call
a few minutes ago.
[inhales sharply]
Take your time.
A man said he'd kill
my little girl
if I didn't give him
my insurance money.
May I have your name,
please, and your address?
Mrs. Katherine Martell.
1157 Sampson.
Phone number,
Mrs. Martell?
It's Dunkirk 2-1-1-9-9.
He warned me
not to call anyone.
He said-- You did the right thing.
Where can I see you
in the morning?
Can't you come tonight?
It wouldn't be advisable,
Mrs. Martell.
Besides, there's
no need to worry tonight.
Well, you can come
to my office.
I'm a buyer at Ohrbach's.
Fine, I'll be there
at 9:00.
Will you make out a list
of everyone you know
and everyone
you have dealings with?
Yes, I will.
Mrs. Martell,
I assure you,
we'll be doing everything
we can to help you.
Thank you, Mr. Stewart.
[whistle tweeting]
Mrs. Martell?
Oh, yes?
I'm Zack Stewart, the agent
you talked to last night.
Oh, thank you
very much for coming.
Would you like to
sit down, please?
Thank you.
It was all
so frightening.
I know-- I have a couple
of youngsters myself.
The voice on the phone,
Mrs. Martell,
did it tell you anything
about the person?
You know, young or old,
man or woman?
No.
No, but I'm sure
it was disguised.
It-- it sounded
so peculiar.
I keep asking myself who.
All night long,
I kept saying, who--
who would want to do
such a thing?
You spoke of
insurance money?
Yes.
My husband's.
He was killed in
an automobile accident.
He left me $10,000.
It could be anyone
that knows about it--
an acquaintance,
even a repairman
or delivery boy.
Do you have that list
I asked you for?
Yes.
You've included
everyone?
Family, friends?Oh, no.
It could be someone
close to you.
No.
You must include
everyone, Mrs. Martell.
Have the materials I ordered
come in yet, Kate?
You know I was promised.
All right, Henry,
you'll get them tomorrow.
Tomorrow?
You said tomorrow
two days ago.
Please, Henry,
I'm busy.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
[door closes]
This isn't like me,
going to pieces like this,
but every time
the phone rings, I jump,
just not knowing when
he's gonna call again.
That's the pattern of
extortion, Mrs. Martell,
to frighten you
to the point
you'll do
whatever he wants.
But we won't let him.
I know, I know, you sat
on the edge of your bed
and watched her
all night.
I did that once
when my little boy
had scarlet fever.
I'll be all right.
Sure you will.
But for your own
peace of mind,
we've placed your house
under surveillance.
[narrator]
Without disturbing the normal
routine of the neighborhood,
Agent Stewart arranged
the procurement
of identification
on every person
entering or leaving
Kate Martell's apartment.
Agent Stewart received
Mrs. Martell's permission
to intercept
every telephone message.
He supervised preparations
to take down the next call
from the extortionist
word for word.
Meanwhile,
Agent Stewart's attention
was required by
his two other cases.
"To all agents,
a firearms shoot
has been arranged
for September 30th."
Too fast for you?[phone rings]
Ripley speaking.
I'd like to speak
to Agent Stewart.
He's not in right now.
Can I help you?
No, I want to speak
to him personally
because, well, it's about
one of his cases.
Well, he'll be back
pretty soon.
Can he call you? No.
And I can't come
to your office.
Ca-- Can he come here?
Your name, please?
Your name, please?
Brenda Ralles.
Can he come here
about 11:00 tonight?
11:00?
Couldn't you make it
a little bit earlier?
Brenda Ralles.
No, not before 11:00.
I'll be alone then.
What's your address?
1210 North Drexell.
1210 North Drexell.
All right, we'll see you
tonight, Mrs. Ralles.
The fellows are there.Hi, Rip.
10:56.That's close enough.
Let's go.
[doorbell buzzing]
[knocking]
Mrs. Brenda Ralles?
I'm Special Agent Ripley.
This is--No, please go away.
We have an appointment
with Brenda Ralles
at this address.
No.[door closes]
May I come in, please?No.
Leave me alone!
[music intensifies]
[gunshot]
What happened?
I'm with the FBI.
Keep everybody
out of the alley.
Yes, sir.
Who was with you
a few minutes ago?
[dialing phone number]
Operator,
get me the police.
Emergency.
Who was it, Ms. Ralles?
This is Ripley, FBI.
An agent was killed
in an alley
in the back of
1210 North Drexell.
Right.
[narrator]
The murder of Agent Stewart
fell under the
immediate jurisdiction
of the local police.
Accordingly, Brenda Ralles
was removed to headquarters,
where Lieutenant Kuppol
of Homicide
was unable to pierce
the armor of fear
left by the killer.
Come on, come on,
Ms. Ralles.
[crying]
How much longer do you think
you can try our patience?
[crying]
In her condition,
it'd be best--
best to take her home and
let her get some sleep,
make her think we've
finished with her
while we tail her
around the clock.
Frank, we'll sweat at this
as if Zack had been
one of our men.
Fine, Jake.
This was his night
with his kids, too.
Rip.
Yes?
That girl in there,
she called about
one of Zack's cases,
but which one?
There's Walpo, Martell,
and, uh...
Angelino.
One of them ties in
with Zack's murder.
The sooner all three cases
are concluded,
the sooner we'll know
his killer.
I'm turning over
those three cases to you.
Let's call it a night.
Come on.
[narrator]
By morning, Agent Ripley
had thoroughly analyzed
all three of
Zack Stewart's cases.
One of them held
the clue to his killer.
The first to be investigated
was the Joe Walpo case
in which Agent Stewart had
been trying to develop
a lead to the fugitive
through his girlfriend,
Connie Anderson.
[music playing]
[doorbell rings]
[turns volume down]
FBI.
Okay, you're in.
The bar's over there.
Help yourself.
Thanks.
You Boy Scouts
got names?
Yes, I'm Ripley,
and this is Mr. Barker.
I suppose
it's about Joe Walpo.
That's right.
Why don't you ask
the bloodhound who was
here yesterday?
He was killed last night.
Oh, that's tough.
Do you mind if I
put something on?
I don't like men staring
at me before lunch.
I don't care for the eyes--
or have you gotten that far?
Who killed your pal?
[Ripley]
We thought you could
help us on that.
Me, help you?
That would be good
for a laugh.
What time was he killed?
11:00.
That lets me off.
I was at the stadium,
rooting for Gonzalez.
Poor slob got knocked out
in the last round.
And I was sitting in my
usual Wednesday night seat,
Row 10, Aisle B.
Everybody there saw me.
You can't pin anything
on me.
Okay, then, now that
business is over,
maybe we can get
a little informal.
Yeah, let's talk
about Walpo.
Ooh, to begin with, you're
supposed to phone up.
I was nice enough
to let you in.
Like I told the guy
yesterday,
Joe Walpo
is only a name to me,
so go on and beat it!
There's a lot
I'd rather do
than waste my time
talking to you.
Walpo put your name
on the prison records
to notify
in case of illness.
So what?
He gives you presents.
All right,
maybe you're the type,
you'd understand.
Try me.
You said
he gave me presents.
Well, sure, he did.
And I knew where the
presents were coming from,
and I didn't want to stop
him or his presents.
You know why?Why?
[needle scratches record,
music stops]
Your kid's living in
a five-buck hall closet
with a straw mattress,
and a guy like Joe Walpo
looks at you,
you fall hard.
You think it'll last
forever,
like one of them watches
you don't have to wind.
Only busted...
and he's sure done
a lot of winding.
Phone us when you hear
from Walpo, will you?
Sure.Thanks.
For what?
Oh, uh, one more
question, Miss Anderson.
Yeah?
Who is Brenda Ralles?
I never watch
those quiz shows.
You don't know her?Nope.
[narrator]
The second of
Agent Stewart's cases
revolved around
Vince Angelino,
the boy who chose to go
to the federal penitentiary
rather than reveal
the names
of the car-stealing gang
who hired him.
[kids shouting]
Pizza?Lasagna.
[knocking]
[narrator]
Agent Stewart had been
trying to get to Angelino
through his wife,
Julie.
Mrs. Angelino?Yes?
We're from the FBI.
We'd like to talk to you.Come in.
I'm Mr. Barker,
and this is Mr. Ripley.
Hello.How do you do?
Would you come inside?Thank you.
I understand
one of our agents
talked to you
yesterday.
Yes, Mr. Stewart did.
Won't you sit down?
Mr. Stewart
was killed last night.
Killed?
Not because
of my husband?
We don't know yet.
That's why we'd like
to have your help.
We'd like to
have you recall
your conversation with him
if you can.
He was so--
so understanding.
I'm so sorry
to hear it.
Did he have
a family?
A wife and two kids.
Poor woman.
I'll tell you just
what I told him.
My husband didn't
steal the car.
I think you
must have told him
a little bit more than
that, Mrs. Angelino.
I've gone over it
again and again,
hoping I would
find something
that would prove
he's innocent.
That night
when it happened,
Vince was nervous,
worried.
So many bills to pay
and out of his job,
he thought he would
sleep better
if he got some fresh air.
He walked down
to the drugstore--
you probably don't care
about small things
like that.
That's where you're wrong.
Any small detail
will help us.
Well, a little later,
Mrs. Tellini
knocked on the door.
She has a phone.
Vince had called her
to tell me
he met a man
at the drugstore.
The man had
offered him $50
to drive a car
to Las Vegas.
What man?
What was his name?
Mr. Stewart
asked me that--
if Vince had told me
anything about the man--
what he looked like
or his name or anything,
and I told him no.
Vince had never heard of
him before he called.
When you talked to
Mr. Stewart,
did he say anything that
might lead you to think
that he had a clue
to the man's identity?
No, I don't
remember anything,
but I keep praying that
you'll find the man,
because when you do,
it will prove that
Vince was innocent.
[clock chiming]
Oh, dear,
I didn't think.
The sun must be
right in your eyes.
Sorry.
It was very
inconsiderate of me.
How long have you been
blind, Mrs. Angelino?
Since I was 14.
It must be
kind of difficult here,
all by yourself.
No.
It's just this waiting
for Vince to come back.
Thank you
for your cooperation.
Uh, do you know a woman
by the name
of Brenda Ralles?
Brenda Ralles?Mm-hmm.
No, I'm sure I don't.
Thank you.
Good-bye.
Mr. Ripley.Yes?
Please be careful.
If somebody killed
Mr. Stewart
because he came here
and talked to me,
then you could be
in danger.
Thank you very much,
Mrs. Angelino.
I'll be careful.
Good-bye.
[door closes]
[narrator]
Agent Stewart's third case
dealt with the target
of an extortionist.
Mrs. Martell?
Are you Mr. Ripley?
Yeah, that's right.
I was stunned
when I heard
about Mr. Stewart's
death.
You don't believe it had
anything to do with--
We don't know yet.
I hope the fish and chips are
as good as they used to be.
Ah, go on and enjoy
your lunch, will you?
Thank you.
That list you gave
Mr. Stewart--
are you sure you didn't
leave anybody off of it?
No, I don't believe so.
I--What's the matter?
Is somebody coming?
Yes, and he'll probably
want to join us.
All right, relax now.
Just take it easy.
Kate!
Well, well-- small
world department.
Hello, Dave.Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean
to butt in.
Oh, that's all right.
My name is Ripley.Millson.
Dave Millson.
I was just talking over
my new fall line
with Mrs. Martell here.
You can join us--
that is,
if you're not
a competitor.
Me?
[laughing]
I can't tell a hem
from a gusset--
whatever a gusset is.
Dave's a friend
of the family.
Yep, good old Dave,
friend of the family.
That's me.
Well, I--
I won't horn in.
I hope you make
a sale, Mr. Ripley.
Thanks very much.
So long, Kate.
So long, Dave.
Dave Millson,
real estate broker,
bachelor friend
of your husband.
You must have
memorized the list.
By the way,
do you know a girl
by the name
of Brenda Ralles?
Brenda Ralles?
No, I-- I don't
believe I know her.
No, I didn't!
I tell you, I didn't!
Look, I'll meet you
in half an hour.
[narrator]
Three cases, one murder,
and Agent Ripley had yet
to link Brenda Ralles
to one of these cases
which were within
his jurisdiction.
Therefore, the girl,
the principal lead
to the murder
of Agent Stewart
was still under the surveillance
of the police department.
This is the latest
in two-way stretchers.
I'd like to try it on.Surely.
The dressing rooms
are right over there.
Yes, I know.
May I help you, sir?
Uh, yeah, give me
one of those.
What size
does your wife wear?
It's not for my wife.Oh?
Uh, say,
is there another exit
to that dressing room
over there?
Yes, there's
a back stairway.
It's a great place to lose her--
in a girdle department.
You didn't stop
and try one on, did you?
You could use one.
Look, Jake, I lost her
in the dressing room.
Suddenly,
he gets modest.
I'll talk to you later.Yes, sir.
Sorry, Rip.
Grant's really
a good man.
Yeah, great.
Get me Harrison.
If you need
any more men, I--
It's all right.
Harry, how many men have
you got out on Ralles?
[Harry]
Six cars.
That's not enough!
What are you saving up
for, an earthquake?
Look, I want the all-points
hot and heavy.
Now get on it!
[phone ringing]
[ringing]
I'm coming, I'm coming.
Just a minute.
I'll take that,
Mrs. Downes.
Hello?
[Vicki]
Mommy!
Who?
Wrong number.
[Vicki]
Mommy!
Yes, baby.
Look!
Well, what is it?
It's a picture of you.
Oh, well, it looks
just like me.
But it isn't
finished yet.
Oh, so it isn't.
I'll tell you what--
you finish it
while Mommy gets
ready for dinner, huh?
[kiss]
Uncle Max,
I asked you to knock.
You'd think
I was a stranger
instead of a member
of the family.
What is it now?
That old hag
you call a housekeeper.
What about her?
You should get rid
of her, Katherine.
You know, me and Vicki
were doing all right.
Vicki's a little girl.
She needs
a woman's attention.
The way she bosses in the
house when you're not around.
Treats me like
an outsider.
Look, Uncle Max, I work
hard all day long.
I need Mrs. Downes.
Wasting Bill's
insurance money that way.
Well, at least I'm not
wasting it on horses.
Does that bother you?
Never seemed to
bother Bill.
You needn't set
a place for me tonight.
I know when I'm not
welcome.
Mrs. Downes.
Mrs. Downes.
If Uncle Max ever wants to
take Vicki somewhere
when I'm not at home--
anyplace--
she's not to go.
You understand.I understand.
And so,
the little princess
lived happily ever after.
Now, you go to sleep
and I'll see you
tomorrow morning
at breakfast, all right?
Good night.
[knocking on door]
Who is it?
It's Dave.
Am I early?
Well, you'd better
hurry up and get dressed.
Honey, anything goes
tonight-- you name it.
The Coconut Grove,
a show, the Palladium,
Ocean Park.
Or we can stay right
here and make popcorn
and hold hands.
I'm sorry, Dave,
I completely forgot
about our date.
Oh?
It's been
one of those days.
I feel kind of low.
Well, all the more reason
I should stick around
and cheer you up.
Well, Dave, I--
I just wouldn't be
good company.
Now, you don't
have to do a thing.
I'll pop the corn,
show you my best card trick.
Can I take a rain check?
I'm a great little
cheerer-upper.
Please, Dave.Okay.
But before I go, let me
tell you the news.
I sold a house
in Brentwood.
Biggest deal so far.That's fine, Dave.
That's just fine.
Well, aren't you gonna
congratulate me?
[popcorn spilling]
I'd have rather you
fought me off, Katie.
Anything but you
just standing there.
That's all right.
Mrs. Downes
will clean it up.
You're really sore,
aren't you?
Let's say I won't be
if you go now.
And let's just say
I had one too many.
Let's say that,
and all is forgiven.
Nice going, Katie.
You break the date,
and I have to be
the one who's forgiven.
Dave, I--
Good evening, Kate.
Oh, hello, Alex,
come in.
Anything wrong?
No, no, you just
surprised me, that's all.
Martha told me to return
the sugar she borrowed.
Oh, thanks, but she
needn't have bothered you.
There is something
wrong, isn't there?
I had another argument
with Uncle Max.
I know, Kate.
I realize
he's an old man
and he did help us
get started,
bought us furniture.
Has he ever let you
forget it?
If only he'd stop
complaining.
He's got his health,
makes enough money to
lose on the horses.
Let him find some
other place to live.
I don't know, I--
I suppose you're right.
See?
I'm the kind of man
who can work out
everybody's problems
except his own.
Well, I'd better
get back.
Mother's got one of her
crying spells again,
only worse.
Keeps telling me to
ask for a raise.
Hah! A raise.
A lot she knows.
People my age can
only ask for so much.
That's true, Alex.
Hmm, I'll be
seeing you, Kate.
Oh, by the way,
I know a good stock.
Oh, thanks, Alex,
but I think I'll keep
the money in the bank.
That's the safest thing.
Good night, Kate.
Good night, Alex.
[music intensifies]
This is everything
she owns, Jake.
Didn't find a photograph,
a letter, nothing.
She played it solo.
So we're all finished
with you, Mr. Werker.
Oh, I thought
I'd wait around
for the reporters
and the photographers.
They may want to
take my picture.
The Chronicleis down
the street, two blocks.
That was an awful
shock, you know,
finding her body.
I'm not a well man.
I fell off a roof once,
and all my insides
got shoved up two inches.
My stomach's up against
my liver,
my liver's up
against my gallbladder,
and my gallbladder's
between my stomach
and my lungs.
[phone ringing]
Besides which,
I got a bad heart.
Yeah?
You think they'd want
to take my picture?
After all,
a sick man like me
finding that girl,
huh?
I'd certainly
think so.
Thanks, George.
You ought to see
my X-rays.
The doctor says
he doesn't know
why I'm alive.
Yeah.
That was ballistics.
The bullet they took
from Brenda Ralles
was fired
from a .357 Magnum,
the same gun
that killed Zack.
[narrator]
Three cases, two murders.
And the only known killer
connected to those cases
was Joe Walpo.
Miss Anderson was placed
under an around-the-clock
surveillance,
and even in the seclusion
of her own apartment,
when her actions
could only be surmised,
every move she made was of
possible significance.
The waste paper from
Miss Anderson's apartment
was segregated
and picked up daily.
The FBI wanted that
piece of gift wrapping.
It was forwarded
to Washington.
Skilled technicians
took it in charge.
They unearthed
a single fingerprint--
Joe Walpo's.
Another clue was hidden
in the watermark.
The FBI has 17,000
watermarks on file.
Each one is the signature
of the manufacturer.
The gift wrapping
bore the imprint
of the Northco
Paper Company,
a small plant devoted
exclusively to gift wrappings.
At the Northco plant,
an agent questioned
the superintendent.
This paper was rolled
sometime between
September 1st and 12th.
How can you tell?From the watermark.
Can you tell me where you
sold this particular roll?
Sure thing.
Excuse me.
[narrator]
The search for Joe Walpo
by scientific analysis
was but one method
being employed by the FBI.
At the same time,
Agents Ripley and Barker
undertook to reach
the fugitive
through another method--
their precise understanding
of human emotions
and weaknesses.
[doorbell rings]
Well, if it isn't
Buster again.
I was beginning
to feel neglected.
I'm alone, Rover boy.
You know,
if only you were.
Have a drink?No, thanks.
Make yourself
comfortable.
Thank you.
Looks like
we'll save time.
I don't know any more
about Joe Walpo
than I did before.
We didn't say you did.
As a matter of fact,
we owe you an apology.
Come again?
You see, we were going
along on the theory
that you were still
Walpo's girlfriend.
We were wrong.
A couple of things
had us fooled.
One, you never went out
with other men in this town.
Well, who told you that?
We figured you were afraid
Walpo would find out about it.
I go out.
I go out plenty.
He still
sends you presents.
Why not?
Joe doesn't forget
an old friend.
An old friend?
Well, no, that's right,
he doesn't.
What do you think
you're doing?
You know, it's funny
how a man's taste
changes with time.
This was a girl who was
questioned in Denver
a couple days ago.
What am I supposed to do,
break out in a rash?
No, I just thought maybe
you were still interested
in Joe's activities.
That's her right here.
Take a look.
She's cafe society.
That's funny.
I always thought
Joe liked blondes.
You can paste her
on your wall.
She's not my type.
Well...
Would you like to hear
something very interesting?
[static]
[man speaking on tape]
This is an official
transcription
of an interview with
Miss Barbara Carmichael
recorded in the Federal
Building in Denver, Colorado.
Do you mind?
Anything for a laugh.
[man speaking on tape]
Thank you for coming here
voluntarily, Miss Carmichael.
We appreciate it.
[Miss Carmichael]
Not at all.
[man]
State your full name
and address, please.
[Miss Carmichael]
Barbara Carmichael,
112 Westview Drive.
[man]
Do you live alone
at that address?
[Miss Carmichael]
Yes, ever since college.
[man]
If I show you a photograph
of Joe Walpo, Miss Carmichael,
can you identify it?
[Miss Carmichael]
Of course, only I
knew him
under the name
of Joe Allen.
Since then, I've discovered
who he really was.
[man]
How did you come
to meet him?
[Miss Carmichael]
Oh, at one nightclub
or another.
We became
very good friends.
[man]
For how long?
[Miss Carmichael]
Two or three months.
[man]
During that time,
he was your houseguest?
[Miss Carmichael]
You might call it that.
Turn that thing off!
[man]
Miss Carmichael, I...
You heard me!
Turn it off!
[man]
...bill for
a topaz necklace.
You dirty creeps!
I wish you were
both dead!
Turn it off!
[man]
When did you last
see him, Miss Carmichael?
[tape stops]
Yeah, Connie, when was
the last time you saw Walpo?
When was the last time
you saw any man?
Get out.
You lousy crumbs,
get out of here!
[shattering glass]
[music intensifies]
This is Perry.
Report to Ripley.
We're following subject
on freeway,
heading
toward Civic Center.
Yes, yes,
it's very well made.
Let me
demonstrate in a crowd.
Any ordinary crowd
will do.
Sorry, I didn't know
you were busy.
Oh, I'm glad
you're here.
Mr. Hogarth,
meet Agent Barker.
An honor and a privilege,
Mr. Barker.
Yes, Mr. Hogarth
invented this--
this-- well, this.
It works on
the same principle
as a Geiger counter,
only it finds spies,
and when it does,
this light--
this one right here,
lights up.
Yes, even people
I never suspected.
My wife's mother,
my next door neighbor,
the man who came to see me
about my taxes.
I got a light
on all of them.
[phone ringing]
The income tax
man, huh?
That's very interesting.
Ripley speaking.
I think it's working, Rip.
We tailed her
to the subway terminal,
where she's just boarded
the number three inter-urban.
Fine, we'll pick
you up en route.
Mr. Hogarth, I'm sorry,
we're gonna have to run.
Now, you take that
to the patent office.
They'll give you all
the information you need.
I think it's wonderful.
I wish we had one.
We're following north
on Glendale, now passing Oak.
We'll pick you up
at Court Street,
do drop-off there.
[narrator]
End of the line.
An isolated path in
the outermost suburbs
of the sprawling city.
[knocking]
Joe, it's Connie.
[knocking]
It's Connie, Joe.
[door unlocks]
What are you doing here?
I had to see you, Joe.
I told you I'd
let you know
when you were
supposed to come.
Nobody followed me
here, I'm sure of it.
I couldn't
wait any longer.
Aren't you glad
to see me?
I'll let you know.
Joe, remember me--
Connie?
That was a dumb
trick, coming here.
I know, but it's been
a long time, Joe.
[air hissing]
What's that?
[air hissing]
Joe!
[Connie]
Oh, let me go!
Let go!
FBI, Walpo-- come out
with your hands up.
[gunshot]
[gunfire]
Joe!
[crying]
Oh, Joe!
Oh, Joe.
[crying]
Don't touch me.
[crying]
[narrator]
Joe Walpo's file
was closed.
It's ugly record listed
a score of known crimes,
but the FBI proved
that on the night of
Agent Stewart's murder,
Walpo was in Las Vegas.
This narrowed the search
for his killer
down to the cases
involving Vince Angelino
and Kate Martell.
[phone ringing]
[ringing]
Hello?
[man]
Hello, Mrs. Martell.
Been waiting
to hear from me?
What do you
want me to do?
Okay, get the money
in small bills.
Nothing bigger than 20s.
Take it to
the Hillview Cemetery.
Cemetery?
Arrive there
at exactly 12:00.
Park 100 yards from
the entrance.
I'll be watching you.
Yes.
Then go in the cemetery
and take the path
to the right.
It leads to
the Williams Mausoleum.
Wait there five minutes,
then return to your car.
Where do you want me
to put the money?
I'll contact you.
And listen,
bring your kid.
Oh, no!
And leave her
in the car
while you're waiting
at the mausoleum.
I couldn't do that!
Nothing will happen to her
if you play ball.
You're not afraid
of cemeteries, are you?
You will be, if you
call the police.
[receiver clicks]
No mother can be expected
to do what he asks.
Leave a child alone
in a car at midnight?
I can't do it.
No mother could.
Tell me something.
What?
Do they make
these things up
for children's
clothes too?
Yes.
Why don't you borrow
one from the store
and wrap it
in a blanket.
It's gonna be dark.
He might be watching
the apartment when I leave.
It's a possibility,
but if you're carrying
something in a blanket
at night...
I'm afraid I'm gonna
crack up tonight, Mr. Ripley.
I'll bet you another
lunch you don't.
[phone ringing]
[woman]
Don't answer it.
[ringing]
Hello?
Hello?
[phone ringing]
Hello?
[dialing]
Line busy, honey?
Oh, it's--
it's all right.
Now remember
what I told you.
Don't answer the phone
and don't open the door
for anyone.
Oh, I won't.
But what about
the old man?
He has a key.
Well, I'll be home
long before Uncle Max.
Oh, well,
that's fine, honey.
You run along and have
yourself a good time.
You can depend on--
Well, what on earth?
I'll explain later.
Be an angel and don't
ask questions,
and be sure and bolt
the door after me.
Why, Kate, where
are you going
at this time of night?
I'll be right back.
Can I be of help?
No, thanks,
I can manage.
[engine starts]
[phone ringing]
[bell tolling]
[gasping]
[rustling]
Five minutes have elapsed.
Victim should be
returning to car.
You take it.
Pardon me, Miss,
can you tell me
where Logan Boulevard
comes in around here?
No, I can't.
Maybe you know where
Fordham Boulevard is.
No, I--
I don't know.
Hey, it's kind of late for
a pretty little girl like you
to be running around
all alone, isn't it?
Maybe I can give you
a lift someplace.
I'm waiting for a friend.
Maybe I'm that friend
you're waiting for.
Are you?Well, sure.
Look, honey,
supposin' you and I
go out someplace and
have a couple of drinks,
some laughs, and--
[crying]
Lady, I was
only kidding.
I didn't mean
anything by--
It's all right,
Mrs. Martell.
[crying]
He never showed up.
[crying]
He never showed up.
He didn't intend to.
That's the
extortionist's pattern,
to terrorize you.
Come on.
Come on,
I'll drive you home.
[train whistle blows]
[bell clanging]
[knocking]
Mrs. Angelino?Yes?
I got a message
for you.
I'm a friend
of your husband's.
A friend of Vince?
Oh, please come in.
Come on.You first.
What do you hear
from Vince?
He's fine.
He wrote me yesterday.
You have a message
for me?
Could I see the letter?
Mrs. Tellini has it.
I'll get--Never mind.
Just tell me
what was in it.
The usual.
He's feeling fine.
He helps
in the library.
Yeah, yeah, what
else did he say?
You said you had
a message for me.
Who are you?
What do you want?
Why did you
lock the door?
The letters you
write to Vince,
they're no good
for him.
They may
start him thinking.
He may think too much.
And if he does, I'll
shove a knife in his back!
Help me up,
will you, please?
I feel--What's the matter?
What are you doing?
I'm sorry, I can't see.[knocking on door]
Don't you say a word.
[woman]
Julie, are you home?
About those letters,
I don't like what
you put in 'em.
I write what I want!
I don't go for
this blind stuff.
To me, you're just
another broad.
Now, you're gonna do
what I tell you!
No!
I warned you!
All right.
You quit filling Vince
with all that rubbish,
or the next time,
I'll really work you over!
[door slams]
Do you think that you
could possibly
describe him to us
in some way?
He was tall, about 6'2",
and weighed around 195.
How do you know that?Uh...
I could tell his height by
where his voice came from
when I stood close to him.
And that board
in front of my door
squeaks at 160
and gets louder.
[board squeaking]
Your scales
are off four pounds.
Do you think you
could guess his age?
Oh, about 35.
Oh, anything else?
Yes, he had a deep scar
on his right cheek
and his hair was greasy
and cut very short.
He was wearing
a tweed sport coat
that must have cost a lot.
I smelled it
and I felt it too.
And another thing--
I think he's a fighter.
Why do you say that?
His left ear was, uh,
uh...you know.
Oh, cauliflowered.Yes.
Well, that should
do us. Thank you.
Mrs. Angelino,
we ought to find a place
for you in our office.
You're gonna stay
with Mrs. Tellini
tonight, aren't you?
Well, if you say so,
but don't be afraid.
I'm not.
Good-bye.
[door closes]
He's about 35, 6'2",
weighs around 195 pounds.
Got a butch haircut,
a scar on his right cheek,
and his left ear
is cauliflowered.
Might be in your racket.
I don't know him.I don't know him either.
He'd go in
for fancy clothes.
Sometimes wears
a tweed sport coat.
Oh, yeah, and he
cuts his hair short.
Sorry, champ,
doesn't ring a bell.
He weighs about
195 pounds, stands 6'2".
He's got a scar
on his right cheek
and a cauliflowered
left ear.
Yeah, I know the guy.
Used to fight prelims
a couple of years ago.
He wouldn't train,
so I dropped him.
What's his name?
You offering a reward?
Nah.
Too bad.
Nothing like a reward to
encourage good citizenship.
Thanks for the lesson
in civics.
What's his name?
Just kidding.
Ah.
His name is
Matty Pavelich.
Used to live at 1701
Parther Street, Apartment 3.
Thanks.
Look, I know my rights.
You can't go picking up
a guy for no reason.
You didn't
pay Angelino $50
to drive a car,
a car that was stolen?
Ah, go fry an egg.
I told you, no.
What is this, a frame?
Who's this Angelino guy?
What would I be doing
with stolen cars?
My nose is clean.
Keep me here much longer,
and a lawyer will slap
a sweet lawsuit against
you guys for false arrest.
We haven't arrested
you, Mr. Pavelich.
We just wanted to ask
you some questions.
Okay, okay,
so you questioned me.
I don't know nothing
from nothing.
Now, look--
You know why you've been
brought here, Mr. Angelino?
No.
Speak up, son.
You have nothing
to be afraid of.
I want you
to take a good look
at that fellow right
over there
and tell us who he is.
Go on, walk right up
to him.
Don't be afraid.
I never saw him
in my life.
Okay, are you guys
satisfied?
Your frame didn't work.
Now let me out of here.
The kid don't know me,
and I don't know him.
He paid you to
drive a stolen car,
and he's a member of
a gang
who's been
hustling hot cars
across the state line,
only you didn't know it.
Isn't that the truth?
No, I never
saw him before.
Okay, take him back.
Come on.
Okay, you got
nothing on me.
Can I go?
No, the L.A. Police
want to talk to you
about that gal you beat up
the other night.
You're crazy.
What gal?
It turned out to be
pretty serious, Pavelich.
Medical reports show
two fractured ribs,
a possible ruptured spleen,
and multiple bruises
on the face.
Jake Kuppol doesn't like
assault and battery.
You're in a real jam,
Pavelich.
She identified you.Well, you're crazy!
She couldn't, she's--Blind.
What?
Yeah, she's blind.
What did you do
to my wife, huh?
What did you do to
my wife, huh?
I'll kill you,
I'll kill you!
I'll kill you!
All right!
All right, take it easy,
kid, take it easy!
Angelino, do you want
to make a statement?
You bet I do!
You bet I do!All right.
All right, Greg,
take him out of here.
Come on, Vince.
That kid don't know
what he's talking about.
I'm admitting nothing.
This is a frame-up.
You guys don't scare me.
Let's get back
to you, Pavelich.
What about
Thursday night?
Thursday night?
What do you mean,
Thursday night?
Look, you guys
don't scare me.
Where were you
Thursday night?
Thursday night again.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
We're talking about you.
One of our men was killed
Thursday night.
Where were you Thursday?
No, I-- I didn't
kill no Fed.
I wasn't even in
California on Thursday.
I was in Arizona,
shoving hot cars.
Look, I swear I was.
I was in Arizona
on a job!
I got five witnesses
to prove it!
Sit down.
Hey, do I have to
go back?
We'll talk about that after
you've made your statement.
In there.
Julie.
[crying]
Well, I'll wire
Washington right away.
Many thanks.
Phoenix Police confirmed
Pavelich's story.
They just picked up
three of the gang.
Congratulations, Rip.Thanks.
[narrator]
The presence of Pavelich
in Phoenix, Arizona,
on the night
of Agent Stewart's killing
was definitely confirmed.
That left one open file--
the Martell case.
Agent Stewart's killer
and the extortionist
had to be one
and the same person.
Intensifying his efforts,
Agent Ripley reviewed
all information.
These are the people
connected with
Mrs. Martell's daily life
seen leaving her apartment.
First one,
Max Charles Martell,
her late husband's uncle.
Works as
a night watchman.
In 1937, he was acquitted
of a bunco charge.
In 1938, he was
tried and acquitted
of attempting to defraud
Mrs. Bella Block.
Habits, irregular.
Alex Shurk.
Bookkeeper and neighbor
of the victim.
Earns $86 a week.
His only tangible assets--
his car and furniture.
Merchant's
Credit Association
considers him a good risk.
Habits, irregular.
Dave Millson,
real estate broker.
Friend of the victim
and her late husband.
Dresses expensively
and lives beyond his means.
Has been seen
in the company of women
with known records
of soliciting.
Habits, irregular.
Louis Kello, postman.
Married 18 years,
has three children.
Habits, very regular.
Thank you very much.You're welcome.
[bike bell rings]
Hmm,
that's pretty classy.
Who sent it?Mr. Ripley.
You remember him.
You met him at the
Town and Country.
Who's he trying
to impress?
I'm getting her the
largest doll I can find.
I wonder where
I can hide it
before Vicki gets home.
Well, how about
the Shurks?
Oh, no, I don't
want to bother Alex.
You know,
he lost his job
after all these years.
Oh.
Well, don't worry.
I'll take care of it
and bring it to
the party tomorrow.
Thanks, Dave.
You know, you can
be pretty sweet
when you want to be.
I'll bet you have a lot
of fun at a keyhole.
Well, so long, Katie.
I'll stop by early
tomorrow to help you out.
You sure you don't
want to stay for dinner?
No, thanks very much.
So long, Dave.Bye.
Hmm, how you can cuddle up
to that Millson fellow,
I don't know.
It's none of your business,
Uncle Max.
Three to one, he's after
Bill's insurance money.
You're a great one
to talk.
Me?
I only wanted--You listen to me.
Stop walking
into my bedroom
and stop interfering
with Miss Downes
and stop poking your nose
into my personal life!
Bother me once more, and
you'll move out of this house,
and I mean it!
I mean
every word I say!
I should have said it
a long time ago!
Leave me alone!
[door slams]
There you are.
Here you go.
Mommy, look.Thanks, Rip.
[bike bell rings]
You can't imagine
how glad I am
that you could
come with us today.
You see all those pigeons
right over there?
Well, I see a lot of them.
Go get one for me,
will you?
I needed company.
Yeah, so did I.
You know, it's funny.
I never could
figure out
people working around
their house on weekends
or in the garden.
Not me--
I like my job.
I like to work 24 hours,
around the clock.
Just can't relax,
that's all.
I'll be glad when
I can relax again.
Everything's getting
to be such a chore.
I-- I even wonder
if I should go ahead
with Vicki's
birthday party.
I wish you would.
It'd be a great help
to us if you did.
All right.
[overlapping chatter]
Quiet now,
everybody.
It's time for
our birthday girl
to blow out
those candles.
And you're gonna make
a great big wish.
And make it a good one.
Have you made it?
Go ahead, dear,
blow them out.
You blow 'em out.
No, it's your birthday.
You can do it yourself.
All you have to do is a
great big huff and a puff.
One, two, three, hoo!
[narrator]
At Agent Ripley's
directions,
fingerprints were taken
off the glasses
used by the guests
at the party
to be forwarded by
telephoto to Washington.
The guests' conversation
was recorded
to be delivered
to an expert on semantics
for comparison with the
recording
of the telephone call
from the extortionist.
[overlapping chatter]
Now, as you know, the--
the science of semantics
can determine with rather
a high degree of accuracy
the identity of one
individual in a group
by breaking down
the various word patterns
used by each individual
in that group
and then comparing
the results.
Now I've just finished
my preliminary work
on the Martell
birthday party,
and I'm ready to compare
sentences, phrases, and words
used by guests A,
B, C, D, and E.
[phone ringing]
Hello, Mrs. Martell
speaking.
[man]
You've been talking
to the FBI.
Did you hear me?
Yes.
I know everything
that's going on.
Monday, the kid was at the
playground with the old lady.
Tuesday, at the dentist.
Wednesday, she went with
the old lady to market,
didn't she?
And last Sunday
in the park,
remember
the rubber ball?
I could have
killed her then.
Or don't you believe me?
Yes. Okay.
Then write this down,
and this time,
don't tell the FBI.
If you really love
your little girl,
get the dough.
Only 10s and 20s.
Go half a mile
up Derondo Drive.
Be there at 2:00.
Get it?
2:00.
Derondo Drive.
Park at
the "Slow Grade" sign.
You'll see
a pile of stones.
Look under the stones.
Got it?
Yes.
Remember,
keep your mouth shut.
[receiver clicks]
Mrs. Downes.
Well, what on earth?
Is Vicki asleep?Yes.
I've got to talk
to you.
What's the matter?
What's the trouble?
Somebody might kill her
if I don't give them
my insurance money
Oh, no! Who?
I don't know.
He called me
a half hour ago,
and he wants me to bring
the money to him now.
He wants me to go a half
mile up Derondo Drive.
Now, let's analyze
the various expressions
used by guests A,
B, C, D, and E at the party
and compare them to the
peculiar intensifiers
used by the extortionist.
[phone ringing]
One minute, professor.Certainly.
Pace speaking.
Yes, Mr. Cooper.
Thank you very much.
We appreciate it.
Rip, that was the head
cashier at the bank.
Kate Martell just
drew out all her money.
Let's go, Greg.
Excuse us,
Professor Wilson.
Where'd she go,
Mrs. Downes?
Out.
We know that,
but where?
She didn't say.
We know you're
devoted to her,
but right now, her life
might be in danger.
Oh, no!Every minute counts.
She said half a mile
up Derondo Drive.
Derondo.
Let's go!
The similarity
of expressions
between the extortionist
and subject A
leads us to feel there's
a strong possibility
that subject A is your
extortionist, gentlemen.
From Washington.
Number 3 print
from birthday party
identical to print
of Thomas Gibson,
questioned on
extortion charge,
Cleveland, 1946.
Using alias
Joe Connors,
questioned extortion
and assault of woman,
Philadelphia, 1948.
Using alias
Fred Thompson,
questioned extortion
and blackmail of woman,
Boston, 1950.
Number 3 print belongs
to subject A, professor.
Victim reported
heading up Derondo Drive.
We're following.
Out.
Did a green Chevy coupe
pass by here,
a young lady driving it?
Yeah,
as a matter of fact,
she stopped here
for a bit.
Where'd she go?
See that sign?
Thanks.
Let's go.
[music intensifies]
Dave!
That's right, Kate.
Good old Dave,
friend of the family.
Only I never really
knew your husband.
I first heard of him
when I read
that he'd
left you $10,0000.
You've given me
a bad time, Kate.
I had to kill
Brenda Ralles
and an FBI man to
get to this money.
Oh, no.
Oh, no.
I won't tell anyone,
I promise!
I never take chances!Let me go!
I won't tell anyone,
I prom-- no, let me go!
Help!
Help me!
[gunshots]
Mr. Jermaine will drive
you home-- come on.
Rip, I don't know
what to say.
I--Just don't say anything.
Here.Thanks.
Let's go, Rip.
Sometimes you meet some nice
people in this business.