Loophole (1954) - full transcript
A bank teller attempts to clear his name and rebuild his career after he is wrongly accused of theft.
(male narrator)
Los Angeles.
Four hundred and fifty four
square miles of city.
Estimated population,
two million..
One hundred thousand.
The story you are about to see
actually happened to one..
Of those two million
one hundred thousand people.
It could happen to you.
These men are bank examiners.
All honest, all hardworking.
Each man, a trained auditor.
This man's name is Tate.
He couldn't possibly
be interested
in our bank examiners.
Or could he?
A bank manager never
knows just when
a crew of Federal Bank
examiners will call on you.
This morning for instance,
these experts are commencing
their examination
of an important branch
of the Capitol National Bank.
[engine revving]
This is the Hollywood branch
of the Capitol National Bank.
A hub in the business wheel
of a community
in which it's located.
Almost 9:30
and the bank employees
are getting ready
for the day's business.
This man is Michael Donovan.
Respected citizen.
Discharged war veteran
and chief teller
for the Hollywood branch
of the Capitol National Bank.
His day is started
like any other day.
Well planned, orderly, routine.
Nothing unusual about it.
[engine revving]
And here are
the bank examiners.
On time as usual.
They will go
through those doors
and begin their days work.
Just as orderly,
just as routine... and usual.
As Michael Donovan's.
And Mr. Tate arrives
right on time too.
[instrumental music]
That is... usual,
except for one thing.
This morning, eleven bank
examiners show up at a bank..
Where only ten
are supposed to call.
[music continues]
The eleventh man?
He's Mr. Tate.
The chief deputy
allocates half his men.
Each man goes to his
previously assigned post.
This man is the branch manager.
His name is Starling.
Remaining men go to their posts
and the day's work begins.
Thorough, quick.
[music continues]
The examiners first step
is a spot check
of all the cash
the tellers have on hand.
A chief teller handles
as much as $150,000
in ready cash at one time.
A lot of money.
But a teller
is bounded and dependable.
It's Friday,
April 10th. 9:45 a.m.
Tomorrow is Saturday
and the bank is closed.
10 o'clock.
The bank is open for business.
Hundreds of people will pass
through these doors
between the hours
of 10:00 and 3:00.
[instrumental music]
Examiners go right on
checking their cash.
Mr. Tate..
He goes on
doing... whatever he's doing.
[dramatic music]
[music continues]
Thank you very much.
I want to recheck
your big money.
Help yourself.
I wonder if you could help me.
I'm sorry.
What can I do for you, miss?
I'd like to open an account.
I'm afraid I can't
help you with that.
You'll have to go
to the "New Accounts Desk."
That's the front
off the building.
[dramatic music]
(Vera)
'Well, I'm in
such a terrible hurry'
'and I'm already late for work.'
Couldn't you break the rules?
Just this once?
I-I'm sorry, miss,
all new accounts
have to go through
that department.
Checked out okay, thank you.
Don't mention it.
Sorry.
Well, if you can't
then I guess you can't.
I have to come back later.
Sorry to have troubled you.
- Pleasure.
- Thank you.
Persistent, wasn't she?
- Hi, Mike.
- Good morning, Kitty.
[dramatic music]
(male narrator)
It was as easy
and as simple as that.
Mr. Tate walked into
the safest place in the world
to keep money,
a national bank..
And walked out
with almost $50,000.
And a man's future.
Michael Donovan's future.
[glass rattling]
No, I'm sorry.
It's ten minutes after.
I'm sorry. No.
[typewriter keys clanking]
Glad that's over again.
You haven't been
a penny short for five years.
Yeah, but you never can tell.
There's always the first time.
Yeah, I guess so.
Forty nine thousand
dollars short.
I must be losing my mind.
- What did you say?
- Hm? Uh, nothing, nothing.
[typewriter keys clanking]
Is there anything wrong?
Uh, no. Nothing.
Goodnight, Mike.
Have a nice weekend.
Oh, m-mister..
[dog barking]
(male narrator)
A $49,900 shortage.
Somewhere, somehow,
there's an answer.
Things like this
just don't happen to a man.
But it has happened to you,
Michael Donovan.
You can put it off till Monday.
But Monday morning will come
so terribly soon.
Better tell your wife, Ruth.
Get it off your chest.
Tell me what's bothering you.
Well..
My cash didn't balance
yesterday.
Is that all?
Where did you go wrong?
I don't know.
You don't know?
Well, how much were you short?
Forty nine thousand,
nine hundred dollars.
- You're joking.
- $49,000 is no joke, Ruthie.
Why that's impossible!
- How could you?
- I don't know!
I just don't know.
[whispers]
Thanks.
What did Mr. Starling say
when you reported it?
I haven't reported it yet.
- Oh, Mike, you should have.
- I know I should have, Ruthie.
But I wanted time to think.
I-I..
What's there to think about?
When you're short,
you've got to report it.
But Ruthie, I, uh..
First thing tomorrow morning.
Alright. First thing
tomorrow morning.
[birds chirping]
Good morning.
Oh, good morning, Mr. Donovan.
Good morning, Mrs. Donovan.
- Good morning, Sam.
- It's a fine day!
Makes you glad you're out..
[indistinct chattering]
- Mr. Starling?
- 'Come in, Mike.'
(Starling)
'Hello, Ruthie. Mornin', Mike.'
I've got to talk
to you, Mr. Starling.
Sit down.
I'll be with you in a second.
Sit down, Mike.
Now, then.
What can I do for you?
Mr. Starling, my cash
didn't balance on Friday.
Oh? Why didn't you
come to me then?
I just couldn't believe
it had happened.
I still can't believe it.
Well, we've straightened these
things out together before..
I know, but $49,900..
Oh, there's nothing
that can't be..
Forty nine thousand,
nine hundred dollars?
Mr. Starling, it must be
in the bank somewhere..
- 'It's got to be.'
- Ruthie, please.
Let me handle this.
How could you possibly
be short all that money?
I just don't know,
I checked
and I rechecked
and it always came up the same.
This is preposterous.
Did anyone come into your cage
during the day?
No, well, Georgia, Ms. Hoard
came in to get change
for some big bills.
And the bank examiners.
They were around all day.
Nobody else?
No, sir.
Mike, I've known you
for a long time.
- I trust you.
- Thank you, sir.
But was very bad judgment not
to report the loss immediately.
I know it was. But I...
Mr. Starling,
what are we going to do?
Well, there's only
one thing we can do.
Call the Bonding Company in
the downtown office right away.
[engines revving]
[intercom buzzing]
Yes?
(female #1)
'Mr. Starling
calling, Mr. Temple.'
- Put him on, please.
- 'Yes, sir.'
Jim! How are you, boy?
Pretty good, Frank.
Wife, family okay?
Fine, fine,
everybody's fine.
Uh, look, Frank.
I have some bad news for you.
Well, let's hear it.
It can't be too bad.
I'm afraid it is.
One of my tellers showed up with
a $49,900 shortage last Friday.
- What? Well, you're kidding!
- 'No, I'm not.'
Last Friday? Well, why
didn't you call us then?
Well, because he just
reported it this morning.
'Well, what's his name?'
Michael Donovan.
Donovan, eh?
Okay, Jim. I'll get
a man right over there.
And don't let Donovan
out of your sight.
I'm sure he's alright, Frank.
[chuckles]
I'm sure you're sure.
- Watch him, anyhow.
- 'Alright, Frank. Goodbye.'
Right.
- 'Yes?'
- Gus Slavin come in yet?
- 'Just walked in, Mr. Temple.'
- Ask him to come in please.
Right away, Mr. Temple.
Boss wants you.
Thanks, honey.
Good morning, Mr. Temple.
Gus, I want you to get
right over to
the Hollywood branch
of the Capitol Bank.
Trouble?
One of the tellers just
reported a $49,900 shortage.
His name is Donovan.
You can take it from there.
Okay, I'm on my way.
Don't worry, sir.
Nobody heists 49,900 from us.
- Nobody.
- I hope you're right.
I know I'm right.
Be seeing you.
It's all kind of silly.
Don't you think, Donovan?
- Hmm? What do you mean?
- You know what I mean.
Oh, look here..
I'd like to see
Mr. Donovan alone
if you don't mind.
Of course not.
You can use the conference room.
Sit down.
Tell you what,
why don't we make it quick?
Who did you sell the dough to?
I don't know
what you're talking about.
But you shoved it to somebody.
Now who was it?
Look, I-I told you,
I don't know anything about it
except that the money is gone.
Yeah, sure. Yeah.
Some young lady maybe?
She conned you into it?
Can't you understand?
I don't know anything about it!
- Want a cigarette?
- No, thanks.
Come on, go ahead.
I said, no thanks.
Look, you're just making it
tough on yourself.
If you weren't working
with someone else
you've hidden
the dough somewhere.
But you get this,
you're never gonna spend
a dime of that money.
'Cause from this moment on,
I'm gonna be right on your tail.
You gotta good reputation,
Donovan.
Don't let one mistake,
mess it up.
All I'm interested in,
is getting the money back.
Now you just tell me
where it is
and nothing happens to ya.
But you be stubborn about it
and you get everything
that I can throw at ya.
Look, if I had taken that money,
do you think I would have walked
into this bank, this morning
and stuck my head in a trap?
Oh, why don't you stop it?
If you hadn't,
you'd reported the loss
before you walked
out of here on Friday.
I wanted time to think.
I was confused!
You wanted time to hide it!
- That's a lie!
- Sit down.
You think you're clean now,
don't you, pal?
All you have to do,
is dummy up and sit and wait.
No, no, I-I..
But you made
one big mistake, mister.
Clipping a Federal Bank
is a big error.
But I didn't do it!
That means
that the FBI will be in on it.
Even you know that the FBI
and the cops don't make deals.
I can.
There's no deal to make.
Look, why don't we try this
just one more time
before I take you down
to police headquarters.
Where's the dough?
I don't know.
Okay, mister.
Come on, let's go.
[instrumental music]
(male narrator)
It's frightening
how fast a man's life
can change in two short days.
Friday, April 10th,
Michael Donovan
went to work as usual.
Just like anybody else.
Monday, April 13th
he's in the Hollywood precinct
in the Los Angeles
police department
under suspicion
of grand theft.
With a sick,
hopeless feeling
right in the middle
of his stomach.
Sometimes,
there just doesn't seem
to be an answer to anything.
One day, the world's alright.
The next, it's nowhere.
Where's the money?
You're from the FBI
why don't you tell me?
Why didn't you take your big
money back to the vault?
- After the examiner checked it?
- I was busy.
You first missed the money
at 3 o'clock?
(Donovan)
'Yeah.'
'Right after the bank closed.'
How was it that you didn't
miss it before that?
I don't know, I was busy,
I just didn't check it.
Forty-nine thousand, nine
hundred's a pretty big score.
Takes a pretty smart guy
to figure a heist like that.
(Donovan)
'Yeah, I guess so.'
You a pretty smart guy, Donovan?
Smart enough not
to try a trick like that.
Your husband pretty much
in debt, Mrs. Donovan?
No.
Not anymore
than anybody else these days.
But you do owe money.
Well, yes.
Doesn't everybody?
How much?
Oh, I don't know offhand.
The house, the car,
some clothes.
How much?
I don't know exactly!
We all make mistakes.
Why don't you tell us about it
and get it off your chest?
I've got nothing to tell,
I didn't take it.
Let me take him over.
I'll get it out of him.
You relax,
we'll handle this.
Who'd you work with on the job?
A woman?
I didn't work with anyone.
- 'Solo, huh?'
- I didn't do it.
Can't you see,
I'm telling the truth.
- They all do.
- Look, Donovan.
You passed the dough
to somebody, now, who?
Gus, you resigned
from the city force.
Now, do you mind?
What have you done
with my wife?
When you opened up,
you got your cash for the day.
Checked everything carefully
and then got ready for work.
- Right?
- Yeah.
He gamble?
What do you mean by gamble?
You know, bet on things
with money.
Well, he plays poker
with the boys, once a week.
'Oh, for what stakes?'
I don't know.
Five cent limit
or something like that.
What about the ponies?
We go out to the track
a couple of times a year.
Don't you?
Well, yes but I think..
We'll ask the questions,
if you don't mind.
He got a bookie?
I thought it was illegal.
I'm sorry you won't
be sensible about this.
I'd hope we wouldn't have
to do it the hard way.
I'd be sensible if I confessed
to something I didn't do?
No.
Not if you didn't do it.
Well, I didn't.
I swear I didn't.
If you're innocent as you say
do you have any objections,
if we search your house?
Yes, I do.
I don't want a bunch of cops
tearing the place apart.
I can get out a search warrant.
Alright, go ahead.
I'm not hiding anything.
No. Well, of course not.
He's not hiding anything.
Not in the house.
Some little cutie's
got the dough
stashed away someplace.
- You're a liar!
- Ah, you punk!
- That's enough.
- Are you calling me a liar?
I said that's enough!
How about the stock market?
He play that?
No.
(male #1)
'What about another woman,
Mrs. Donovan?'
Oh, don't get mad.
Happens to a lot
of fellows.
What have you done
with my wife?
She's alright.
I'll send her out
with the boys
when they make the search.
And take it easy.
If you're innocent,
you've got no worries.
Yeah.
Well, I am innocent.
I've got plenty of worries.
[instrumental music]
What's the matter,
you blind or somethin'?
- What?
- Well, don't you like it?
Oh, yeah, fine, fine.
Maybe the weather report's
more interesting than me, hmm?
- I just don't like it.
- Then, why read it?
Almost a $50,000 theft
and not a line
in the papers about it.
I just don't like it at all.
What're you trying to do, doll?
Start a scrap book?
You don't understand.
They're keeping
the story under wraps.
Now, I won't know
what to do about it.
Oh, honey.
Don't worry about that.
We're doin' alright,
aren't we?
- Yes, but...
- Oh, now, look.
You stop your worrying.
I think
it's just wonderful..
In fact I think
you're the cleverest man
in the whole world.
Now, you just forget all
about that silly old paper
and pay attention.
Hmm, you've got company, honey.
[instrumental music]
[dog whining]
Thanks, Jim.
That's all.
Well?
- Not a sign of it.
- You make a thorough search?
You'd know if your heard
what Mrs. Donovan called us.
I didn't expect
to find much.
Well, it's obvious that he was
working with somebody else.
So, he's had plenty of time to
stash the dough in a safe place.
Maybe.
Come on in, Donovan.
Alright, junior.
Let's stop
playing games, huh?
Where's the dough?
Oh, came up empty, eh?
Alright, you figure out
the next move.
Would you be willing
to submit to the lie detector?
Why not?
I've got nothing to hide.
That thing won't work
and you know it.
It's worked before
and it might help out here.
- You ready?
- Yeah.
Alright.
(male #2)
'Mr. Donovan, I'm going
to ask you a few question.'
Please answer, yes or no
as much as possible.
Your name,
Michael Donovan?
Yes.
- Are you 35 years of age?
- Yes.
- Are you married?
- Yes.
- Do you have any children?
- No.
'You're a bank teller
by profession?'
(Donovan)
'Yes.'
'Did you go straight to work
when you left your home.'
'Friday morning?'
'Yes.'
- Did you stop off any place?
- No.
The examiners began to check
your cash about 10 o'clock?
Yes, by 9:45.
And your cash balance journal
is checked by the examiners?
Yes. Both times.
- Both times?
- Yes.
Do they... usually check
your cash twice?
No, come to think of it,
they don't.
'You're sure?'
Yeah, I'm sure.
'The examiner who checked
your cash the second time.'
'What did he look like?'
Well, he was... stocky,
sort of bald.
- 'Deep voice?'
- No.
I'd like to recheck
your big money.
I'd like to recheck
your big money.
I'd like to recheck
your big money.
High pitched,
sort of nasal.
He had a moustache.
Would you recognize his voice
if you heard it again?
Never forget it.
What did he say?
"We'd like to recheck
your big money."
Is he your accomplice?
No.
'Pulled the job
all alone, eh?'
I didn't pull any job.
'Where's the money now?'
If I knew that, you'd think
I'd be sitting here.
Alright.
[telephone ringing]
- Yes.
- 'Mr. Starling?
- Yes.
- Neil Sanford.
Yes, Neil.
Did you find out anything?
Donovan says the examiners
checked his cash twice.
Is that the usual procedure?
Definitely not.
The examiners
spot check the cash
of every teller immediately
upon arriving at the bank
and that's that.
I've never known them
to check a teller twice.
Unless, of course,
there's an irregularity.
Well, thank you
very much, Mr. Starling.
We'll be talking to you, bye.
Alright, you can
get him outta that.
- Well, what happened?
- Nothing.
Not one offbeat curve.
I told you that machine
was no good.
I've got a hunch
he's telling the truth.
You know something,
I think so too.
Well, I don't.
He's rehearsed that story
till he knows it
as well as
Booth knew "Hamlet."
Telling it again isn't gonna
raise his blood pressure.
What he needs is a taste
of rubber hose.
Stop it.
That routine went out
with the horse and buggy.
Yeah, well, let me tell you
something, mister.
That guy left with 49,900 bucks
and if it's not recovered soon,
my company pays the tab.
I'm gonna see that
that doesn't gonna happen.
I'll use any way I can
to break this guy down.
Send in Ms. Hoard, please.
He said they checked
his cash twice.
Starling says they never
check the cash twice.
Oh, if that's the case..
- Oh, come in, Ms. Hoard.
- Well, thank you.
Sit down.
You work in the next cage
to Mike Donavan?
Yes, I do.
You notice anything unusual
about him the day
the money was missing?
I noticed
he was kind of nervous.
Seemed scared about something.
All day?
No, it was... about 3 o'clock.
Right after the bank closed,
I first noticed it.
Well, then what happened?
Well, then..
He kept rechecking his money.
And I asked him
if anything was wrong
but he said he was alright.
And then, he went back
and got another adding machine
and checked it
all over again.
Tell me, did you, uh..
Did you see anything
of this second bank examiner?
He keeps talking about it.
Uh, stocky man,
balding hair
with a moustache.
No, but I was busy.
There could
have been such a man.
Well, thank you,
Ms. Hoard, that's all.
Yes, sir.
Send in the bank guard, please.
There's one thing
I would like to say.
Yeah?
I know Mike.
And I'm sure
he didn't take that money.
Thanks, he'll be glad
to hear you say that.
Yes, sir.
Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
- Hello, captain.
- Lieutenant.
Uh, yes, sir,
lieutenant.
What can I do for you, sir?
The day the examiners
were there, did you notice
a stocky man with a moustache,
thinning hair?
Hmm, no.
I can't say that I did.
But then you see,
I see so many people
during the day, that is hard
to remember all of them.
But, uh, no.
I don't think so.
Sure?
Well, at least
I don't remember.
Well, thanks.
That's all.
Yeah. Thank you, sir.
Nice to have seen you.
Wait a minute.
I did see a fellow like that.
You did?
Ye-yes, he was banging
on the door.
He wanted to get in.
Did you let him in?
Oh, no, sir,
it was after 3 o'clock
and the bank was closed.
Oh, well, thanks a lot.
- That's all.
- Thank you, sir.
Uh, anything else
I can do?
No, no, if there is,
we'll call you.
Yes, sir.
Thank you, sir.
The bank was closed.
Come on, let's get Donovan
over to the galleries.
We'll... check the mug files.
See if he can identify this guy.
You hope.
Looks like him,
it looks a lot like him?
No, he couldn't possibly
be the guy.
Serving a ten year stretch
in San Quentin.
The bank examiners
are upstairs, lieutenant.
Well, thanks, Phil.
Come on.
[instrumental music]
Can you identify the man
who checked your cash?
This man checked it first.
- That right?
- I checked it, yes, sir.
- No shortage?
- No, sir.
Thank you.
Can you point out
the second man?
Well... he had a moustache
and not too much hair.
Would you mind
taking off your hat?
No, he looks like him
but he's not the man.
- You sure?
- Positive.
Any of you remember
recall such a man?
- No, sir.
- Well, thank you, gentlemen.
That's all.
Donovan, wait outside.
Yeah.
Alright, I don't see
how we can hold him any longer.
Are you guys crazy?
He walks in here
with some cock and bull story
about a second bank examiner
and you wanna let him go
with a pat on the back
and an apology.
- What do you think?
- It's like I said.
I think he's telling the truth.
I appreciate
your position, Slavin.
But don't forget one thing,
letting him out of here for now
doesn't mean he's scot-free.
- You could be right.
- I know I'm right.
If you are, he'll make a mistake
sooner or later.
Meanwhile, we'll start a check
on all known bank robbers
and swindlers.
Also, known bank employees
who've been discharged
during the past year.
We'll be
in touch with you, Neil.
(Neil)
'Right.'
And keep your shirt on.
Getting hot
isn't gonna help a bit.
So long.
[intense music]
- Well.
- Oh, what?
That's that.
You look tired, Mike.
Let's go home.
There wasn't a single line
in any of the papers.
So I guess we're lucky in that.
Yeah.
Let's go home.
[instrumental music]
[music continues]
Good morning, Mr. Donovan.
Oh, uh, Mr. Starling
would like to see you, sir.
Oh?
Thanks.
- You wanna see me?
- Yes, Mike.
I, uh, hate to have
to tell you this
but I'm afraid
I'll have to let you go.
But why?
I'm innocent.
Even Sanford said so.
And I say so.
But unfortunately, Mr. Slavin
doesn't share my opinion.
His company cancelled your bond.
Well, then I'll get bonded
someplace else.
I'm afraid it's not
quite that easy, Mike.
You see when one surety company
cancels, no other company
will issue a policy
guaranteeing your honesty.
- Well, it's not fair.
- I know it isn't.
But my hands are tied.
Tellers must be bonded.
That's part of
the bank regulations.
I'm terribly sorry.
If it were up to me,
I'd put you
right back in that cage
where you belong.
Slavin wants to put me
in another cage
where I don't belong.
Believe me, if there's anything
in the world I can do...
Thanks.
Thanks a lot.
Bye.
(Ruthie)
'Is that you, Mike?'
Yes.
What are you doing home
so early?
I got fired.
What?
Oh, that's not fair.
That's what I told him.
That's the most ridiculous thing
I've ever heard of.
- What are we going to do?
- I don't know.
I'll get another job,
that's all.
We'll get... something.
Come here.
Look.
It's great, isn't it?
First they put you in jail and
then they say you're innocent
and then they fire you
and then they put a tail on you.
Mike.
What?
It's okay,
we-we'll see it through.
You'll get a new job
and everything will be alright.
Sure, everything is
gonna be just dandy.
Ruthie, you believe me,
don't you?
- I love you.
- But do you believe me?
I'll always believe you.
Then everything is
gonna be alright.
Doesn't pay
too much money to start
but there's a real chance
for a go-getter to advance fast.
We have a chain of 12 stations
and we can always use
a good manager.
Sounds wonderful.
When can I start, Mr. Gregory?
Right away.
Tomorrow morning,
if you can make it.
You bet I can.
I'll be here.
- Good, I'll see you then.
- Thank you.
Thank you very much.
I'll see you tomorrow morning.
Alright.
(Ruthie)
'Hi.'
Hi.
What's come over you?
I did it.
- You did what?
- Got a job.
Oh, Mike, no.
That's wonderful. Where?
Uh, it isn't much really
but at least it breaks the ice.
I got a job
at Finley Super Service Station.
"Not much," he says.
Oh, Mike, I'm so proud of you.
Are you really, Ruthie?
Oh, you know I am.
You know this calls
for a celebration.
Celebration? Hey.
I haven't even gotten paid yet.
Never you mind.
You sit right there.
I'll be right back.
- Here you are.
- Hey.
What have we got here?
Oh.
You know something?
[cork pops]
Ah!
You are wonderful.
Thank you very much.
To us.
To us.
[intense music]
Mike.
What's the matter?
Listen, Slavin, I got a job
and I intend to keep it.
- You gonna lay off me or...
- Get your hands off me.
- Mike, please.
- Are you gonna lay off me?
Don't be a chump.
You hit me and I'll have you
locked up in 20 minutes
for assault,
then where would your job be?
Come on, Mike.
Go ahead with her.
She's using here head.
Mike.
Yes, sir.
What can I do for you?
Well, you can't do
anything for me
but maybe I can do you a favor.
Oh? What?
Special investigator.
What's the trouble?
That man out there.
What about him?
Well, you're sure no piker.
You pick the big ones.
Look here, what do you mean?
I mean he's a thief and no
penny ante chiseler either.
That man heisted
almost 50 grand
from the Hollywood branch
of the Capital Bank.
What?
'Course,
it's none of my business.
I just thought
you'd like to know.
Oh, yes, yes.
You were right.
Thank you.
Th-thank you very much.
Oh, it's nothing.
I'll be seein' you.
[intense music]
[music continues]
[tire screeching]
I guess you wanna see me.
Well, I, uh, I'm sorry.
Forget it.
Thanks.
I called you in because I got
a report from the FBI.
Yeah?
What'd they say?
They checked
all ex-bank employees on record.
And?
All of them were
from 50-5000 miles away
at the time of the theft.
Oh. Fine.
- All in but three that is.
- Oh.
And two of them
have air-tight alibis.
- What about the other one?
- He's waiting in the next room.
Be careful.
Nobody knows better than you
what a bad beef
can do for a guy.
Yeah, I know.
Come in, Mr. Johnson.
Repeat after me.
I'd like to re-check
your big money.
"I, uh, I-I'd like
to re-check your big money."
Could you say that
again please?
"I'd-I'd like to re-check
your-your big money."
No.
He's not the man.
Thank, Mr. Johnson, sorry
to have inconvenienced you.
Oh, that's alright,
quite alright.
I hope you find your man.
- Thanks.
- Uh, goodbye.
Cheer up.
We'll keep after it.
How are things going otherwise?
Slavin's hounded me
out of four straight jobs.
Lost the last one
just yesterday.
Took him a week
to catch up with that one.
So I've heard.
I'll have a talk with him.
Tell him to lay off.
Might as well save your breath.
Is that all?
Yeah.
That's all for now.
Oh, uh, thanks for tryin'.
You wanna see me?
Yeah.
What's on your mind?
Why don't you lay off Donovan?
Why? Has he been crying?
He told me, you've been busy
getting him fired.
That's right,
he get's the works
until I get my hands
on that 50 grand.
Or what's left of it.
You're not playing fair, Gus.
Look, you and I are cops
and we've got a job.
I'll admit,
sometimes I don't like
some of the things I have to do.
It's just one big difference.
I'm sure he's innocent.
No.
I'll admit, he's putting on
a pretty good act.
But as soon as
he runs out of dough
he'll lead me
right to that 50 G's.
- You know what I think?
- What?
You're gonna have a long wait.
Maybe, but I still got
six months to pay off.
I'll tell what I'll do, I bet
your new hat that by that time
I have both, Donovan's
confession and the money.
You've got yourself a bet.
[dramatic music]
Discouraged, Mike?
Little.
Aren't you?
No.
We're just starting over,
that's all.
Yeah. That's all.
Well, I'm not worried.
You know it... does look
a little bit
like our first apartment, huh?
- Little.
- Mm-hm.
Now out with you.
I've gotta straighten up
the place
and you'll only be in the way.
Oh, would I?
Out with you.
You would.
Okay.
I love you.
Bye, Mike.
[sobbing]
[indistinct chatter]
(Pete)
'Try not to deadhead back.'
Cruise around,
try and pick up another fare.
Right.
- How are you?
- Alright.
So?
You've got a driver
named Mike Donovan.
So I've got a driver named
Donovan, that's a crime?
That's a criminal.
Tell me more.
I'll tell you plenty more
if you're interested.
Yeah. I'm interested.
Go ahead.
Your boy, Donovan lifted
almost $50,000
off the Capital Bank.
That's very interesting.
One thing interests me
more though.
Yeah? What?
If the guy lifted
almost 50 grand like you say
why ain't he in stir?
As soon as we find out
where he stashed it, he will be.
For a long time.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
Okay.
When he's tossed in the poky,
I'll get myself a new driver.
Till they pick 'em up,
he can work for me
just as long as he keeps
his nose clean.
- Listen, mister...
- Now look.
I don't care
very much for snoopers.
Do me a favor
and get outta here.
Maybe you're gonna be
awfully sorry, mister.
Maybe.
I'm busy. Beat it.
[instrumental music]
Be right with you.
- Six three three one south...
- I don't wanna go home.
I've been cooped up in that
crummy apartment for months.
- Vera, please.
- Oh, please, nothing.
We got a lotta money,
why can't we spend some of it?
Money, money, money.
Can't you think
of anything but money?
[phone rings]
Excuse me.
You know I'm getting
a little fed up with you.
- Be still.
- Don't tell me to be sti...
Look!
Money. Money. Money.
Money. Money. Money.
- Hello, Donovan, 24.
- 'Hello, Mike.'
(Pete)
'Listen..'
Money. Money. Money.
I'd like to re-check
your big money.
I'd like to re-check
your big money.
(Pete)
'Mike? Hello.
Hello. Mike?'
[intense music]
Forget it.
Probably wasn't
the thief at all.
- No.
- Besides.
We're getting along alright now.
I even opened
a bank account yesterday.
Yeah, we
get along alright.
- Still..
- Michael.
- What?
- Forget it.
Forget what?
That's better.
Oh, yes.
And now, Mr. Michael Donovan..
Your paycheck, if you please.
Oh.
Mm. Nice.
Muscle.
- How are you today?
- Just fine, thank you.
Hello, Gus.
What's on your mind?
- Trouble?
- Maybe.
Nothing wrong, I hope.
I'd like to check
an account of yours.
Oh. Who?
A Michael and Ruth Donovan.
They have
anything with you?
Mm, just a minute,
I'll see.
Say, wait a minute.
See if they have
a safe deposit box, will you?
Alright.
- Thank you.
- Here you are.
Here you are.
No checking account.
Just a small savings account.
Eighty nine dollars
and fifty cents.
- That's all?
- That's all.
And they don't have
a safe deposit box.
Okay. Thanks.
Thanks a lot.
- See ya.
- Your welcome.
Goodbye, Gus.
- Here you are, honey.
- Uh-uh.
It isn't pheasant
but it's good for you.
You're good for me.
I got a surprise for you.
What?
- It'll cost you.
- How much?
That much.
See, where was I?
You have a surprise.
Oh, yeah, yeah.
Uh, Pete Tanner.
He wants me to handle
the company's books.
Mike, that's wonderful.
[knock on door]
Well..
I don't know, Ruthie, maybe
I'm better off the way I am.
Oh, you've got to take it.
(Gus)
'Hello, Mrs. Donovan.'
Come in.
What do you want?
Just a little conversation.
Let's make it
as little as possible, uh?
I got work to do.
Sit down.
Thanks.
- Well?
- I'll make it short and sweet.
That'd be nice.
In a couple of weeks
the six months will be up.
That means that my company
stands to pay off $50,000.
That's your problem.
(Gus)
'I didn't expect you to bleed.'
'I thought maybe
you might be interested'
'in a little proposition.'
Might be.
'Look, Donovan..'
I know when I'm licked.
As far I'm concerned,
you're as free as the breeze
and you can stay
that way with a little bonus.
'If you play ball.'
Well, as far as
you're concerned, huh?
That's right.
Go on.
Mike!
It's alright.
I'll tell you what I'll do,
this is my final offer.
You turn over the dough
and you can keep
10,000 for yourself.
What do you say, honey?
What do you mean,
what do I say?
Are you crazy?
Hey, Branson.
No deal.
We're gonna keep all of it.
I'm warning you,
you better change your mind.
Not a chance.
Now if you don't mind..
- I oughta..
- I wouldn't if I were you.
This is my house,
you hit me and I'll have you
locked up in 20 minutes.
And where would your job be?
I'll get you yet, mister,
don't you forget it.
I'm gonna make you wish
you never heard of me.
I feel that way, right now.
Beat it.
[laughing]
He's got a nasty temper.
Mike... you didn't.
Huh?
Oh, of course, not, darling.
But he's been needling me for
six months, it's my turn now.
Besides, where would a married
man be without a sense of humor?
Nowhere, I guess.
You know I got an idea
when Slavin was talking.
Mike, you said you wouldn't.
Yeah, I know, but listen to me
just this once more
then I quit,
I promise, Ruthie.
- Well, make it fast.
- Yeah.
We've been looking at pictures
of all the known criminals
rogues gallery, maybe
that's the wrong approach.
And what's the right approach?
Maybe this guy
doesn't have a record.
Maybe he's a local fellow.
Once worked in a bank
or still does.
Go on.
And if he was
his photograph would be on file
with one
of the bonding companies.
Huh?
I'm gonna look into that.
Okay.
It's worth a chance.
But don't be excited, you'll
just be disappointed again.
And come on, I've got
some errands to do.
- You can give me a lift.
- Alright.
Ruthie, I've got a plan
and you gotta help me.
Now listen, this is
what we're gonna do.
[sighs]
- Alright?
- Mm-hm.
See you in a minute.
[screeching]
Oh, uh, you'd better get
the groceries
and I have to pick up
few things at the cleaners.
Okay.
Don't forget
the coffee drip grind.
I won't forget.
Thank you.
Forgot the coffee.
Forgot the coffee.
Oh.
[tram bell rings]
Almost $50,000 is gone.
You say you didn't
take it, yet it's gone.
And we're responsible
for the loss.
Then you come in here and wanna
look through our files.
- Get outta here.
- Look, Mr. Temple.
I wanna see that money recovered
just as much as you do.
What are you trying to do,
make a chump out of me?
- Get this guy outta here.
- What's he want?
He insists
on looking through our files.
What for?
To identify
the bank robber.
- So let him.
- What?
It's okay, let him.
Alright.
Top drawer, second file.
Look under the D's,
you'll find him.
What's the matter,
didn't you hear me?
I said, look under the D's.
One more crack and we tangle.
Oh, so you got feelings.
What happened
to the iron man?
Why don't you give it up?
There's still time.
Tell me where the dough is.
'Okay, it's your funeral.'
'Like I said,
look under D for Donovan.'
[sighs]
Well..
That does it
for this week.
- Except for one thing.
- What is that?
A bank book.
Needs a little deposit.
I'd better hurry, it's almost
closing, I'll be right back.
- Here you are, thank you.
- Thank you.
- All set?
- Uh-huh.
- Car keys.
- Oh, my bag.
Uh, I'll get it.
These women.
[intense music]
Mike, what in the world?
Teller on the first cage,
the one where you left your bag
he's the guy
I've been looking for.
Oh, Mike, you promised.
I tell you, he's the guy.
You're not letting
your imagination run wild.
We'll soon find out
and I'll stay here watch him
you get to a phone, call Sanford
tell him to meet me right here.
Alright, but please don't do
anything till he gets here.
Don't worry.
Now get goin'.
[intense music]
[intense music]
[music continues]
[music continues]
[intense music]
What do you want?
Why are you following me?
That's it. That's the voice.
You're the guy.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
Let me hear you say
I wanna recheck your big money.
Go on, say it.
Why should I? I don't know you.
I don't know what you mean.
No?
Say it anyway.
We wanna recheck
your big money.
Say it again.
We'd like to
recheck your big money.
- I could kill you.
- No, wait, please!
We can talk this over.
Alright, talk.
I... if I, if I was
the man you're looking for..
Which I'm not admitting,
you understand.
There'd still be no evidence.
You... you can't prove
anything without evidence.
No, wait, please!
We could talk
business if you're..
If you're only reasonable.
Alright, talk reasonable.
We split 50-50
if you keep your mouth shut.
Nobody will
ever know you got it.
Does it sound good?
Let's see it.
I'll send it to ya.
I'll get it for ya.
I want it now,
understand? Now!
Alright, alright,
but it-it's way across town.
63-31 South what?
Chestnut.
Let's go.
[instrumental music]
Hi, M..
63-31 South Chestnut.
[tires screeching]
Get Pete.
[bell buzzing]
You, idiot. You, stupid idiot.
What'd you bring him here for?
I had to.
He threatened to kill me.
- It's too bad he didn't.
- Vera!
How much do you want, mister?
Twenty five thousand dollars.
Who was the fella
that just went in?
- Which one?
- The older one.
What are you,
the census taker?
The name
and apartment number?
Name's Tate,
got a girlfriend in 308.
Thanks.
You're not gonna
give this guy a cent.
What kind of a man are you
letting a sap
like this chisel in on us?
Shut up.
Here it is, but on one
condition... if you see me again
no matter what the circumstances
you don't know me.
We won't meet again...
not if I can help it.
You can't, mister.
Hand it over.
Vera, please! Don't make
trouble. Give him his share.
You make me sick.
Go get the rest of the money.
We're getting out of here.
You know, it'd be
awful hot with you alive.
I'd kinda hate to do it too.
You're sorta cute.
Open up!
[banging on door]
- Pete?
- Who was that?
Vera, don't shoot.
It's the police.
- Open up!
- Give me that..
Give me the money.
Give it to me!
- What's going on here?
- Police.
Do you have a passkey
to this apartment?
Oh, no, let me..
- We gotta get outta here.
- Are you crazy?
I'm not gonna
leave all that money.
Vera, please,
we got our share. Get out!
[instrumental music]
Try the other one.
This is my apartment.
Let me in! I'm...
Out! Out!
Everybody, out!
Well..
I told you it was only
a matter of time, didn't I, boy?
I knew you'd come out
with it sooner or later.
Look, the guy
you want must have
gone out that window with
a girl. We gotta get him.
Oh, sure, the girl.
There's always a girl.
What'd she do?
Run out on you?
Who was the guy?
Your partner?
He was a teller,
name of Tate.
- I caught up with him...
- And I caught up with you.
- Look..
- Just relax.
Don't worry about the girl,
we'll pick her up later.
[tires screech]
- Listen, sweetheart..
- Just remember this.
I go nowhere with you
without that dough.
But, Vera..
You know, with
a few bucks I can stand ya.
Without it, you're just a broken
down, middle-aged bank clerk.
See, there isn't
a squad car in sight.
But the way he acted,
like he was expecting someone.
He's not gonna
get away with that money.
Where's the rest of this?
Somewhere in the bathroom.
I was hoping you'd
try something like that!
You dirty rotten piece of..
Let me in..
Let me in there, I say.
What's the rhubarb? This goon
been bothering you again?
What's it all about, kid?
Pete.
Pete, I found the money.
I got to get to Sanford quick.
Okay, flow,
use the cab downstairs.
We'll take care
of this friend of yours.
What you're doing
is a criminal offence, Tanner.
- Shut up!
- Donovan isn't leaving here!
Shut up. I told you
to shut up.
He's not to
get out of this room!
Look, I'm not gonna
tell you again.
Look! What did I tell you?
- What are you gonna do?
- Get that money.
But how he'll go straight
to the police with it
we can't follow him there.
I'm not gonna follow him.
He's gonna follow me.
Look, he grabbed the bait.
Now, all we gotta do is keep him
movin' away from the cops.
[grunts]
Just like an accordion.
Keep forgetting my own strength.
Let's get out of here.
Poor guy wants to take a nap.
I can't understand it.
He promised he wouldn't do
anything till you got there.
Oh, I wouldn't worry too much.
You go home
and try to relax.
I'll wait around here
in case he calls in.
Alright.
I guess there's
really not much..
[phone ringing]
Sanford speaking.
- What?
- I caught him red-handed.
He's mixed up with some dame.
His boss Pete Tanner and some
hack driver kept me here
while he got away
with the dough.
Yeah, I tell you
I want 'em all picked up.
I'll be in touch
with you, smart guy.
Yeah. Goodbye.
What happened?
Mike just skipped
with the fifty thousand dollars.
I don't believe it.
Where are we going?
A friend of mine
has a beach cottage.
Nice, quiet place where
we make a deal with a Donovan.
Friend? What friend?
None of your business.
The cab number is 388.
The license number is BEX-99834.
Send out a pick up.
Cab number 388.
I was sure
Mike was on the level.
I thought he was
going to the cops.
He is. He'll come back.
You'll see.
He'll explain everything.
I hope so, Mrs. Donovan.
He gone after that
other man, the teller. Mr. Tate.
But he didn't go to Tate's.
He went to the girls apartment.
All I can learn about Tate is,
he's a respectable citizen.
Good worker. Worked at
the same bank for 15 years.
Sure Donovan's in it up to here.
Oh, I don't believe you.
Not Mike.
All we can do is wait.
Maybe he'll try and contact us.
You need us anymore?
No, you can go.
Okay, Charlie, come on.
We got work to do.
Besides, I don't
like the company.
Come on, lover boy.
Just a little further.
We gotta be careful, Vera.
We gotta be careful.
Oh, why don't you shut up.
[instrumental music]
[music continues]
Well, do you see him?
- No.
- He saw us turn, I know he did.
[phone ringing]
Hello? Donovan?
Trace this call,
I'll hold him on the phone.
Donovan, you get in here
and give yourself up.
Are you kiddin'?
Listen, Tate and the girl just
turned on East Zuma road.
That's north of Malibu.
You come on in here
and start playing detective.
I'm not coming in,
and I'm not playing.
You get out here
as quick as you can.
Listen, Donovan,
I'm telling you to..
Get me the Malibu
sheriff's office.
[intense music]
Vera, we've lost him.
Let's turn back.
Forget about the rest of
the money and get out of town.
I don't even think I can
stand you with the money.
[music continues]
[music continues]
[intense music]
[music continues]
[music continues]
Get your hands up.
Get up to the door.
[intense music]
Alright. Get over there.
I'll take the money,
Mr. Donovan.
Nice of you to have
brought it all with you.
You won't get
very far with it.
A lot further than
you're gonna get, mister.
What do you mean?
What do you think I mean?
He's the only one
who can identify us.
Go ahead.
Let him have it.
You don't
want to kill me, Tate.
The most you can get now
is a prison term for theft
if you kill me,
it means the gas chamber.
- Kill him.
- Don't listen to her, Tate.
She'll throw you to
the wolves, you know she will.
Shut up, you..
Let him have it now!
- I can't! I can't!
- Of course you can't.
You're no killer, Tate.
- Shoot him! Shoot him!
- I won't!
I've done everything else
for you, but I'm no murderer.
Vera!
[gunshot]
[Vera grunts]
You in the house
come out with your hands up
before we start shooting.
[instrumental music]
(male narrator)
Well, it's over.
Everything ends
sooner or later.
Even the bad things.
Everything is rosy now
Michael Donovan sitting
on top of the world..
Or is he.
(Neil)
'I'd like to recheck
your big money.'
Neil!
You, uh, think it's
a little too racy for me?
Well, it's got
a lot of you in it.
Yeah, about six feet.
Oh, no..
Don't tell me
he's still trying.
[both laughing]
Los Angeles.
Four hundred and fifty four
square miles of city.
Estimated population,
two million..
One hundred thousand.
The story you are about to see
actually happened to one..
Of those two million
one hundred thousand people.
It could happen to you.
These men are bank examiners.
All honest, all hardworking.
Each man, a trained auditor.
This man's name is Tate.
He couldn't possibly
be interested
in our bank examiners.
Or could he?
A bank manager never
knows just when
a crew of Federal Bank
examiners will call on you.
This morning for instance,
these experts are commencing
their examination
of an important branch
of the Capitol National Bank.
[engine revving]
This is the Hollywood branch
of the Capitol National Bank.
A hub in the business wheel
of a community
in which it's located.
Almost 9:30
and the bank employees
are getting ready
for the day's business.
This man is Michael Donovan.
Respected citizen.
Discharged war veteran
and chief teller
for the Hollywood branch
of the Capitol National Bank.
His day is started
like any other day.
Well planned, orderly, routine.
Nothing unusual about it.
[engine revving]
And here are
the bank examiners.
On time as usual.
They will go
through those doors
and begin their days work.
Just as orderly,
just as routine... and usual.
As Michael Donovan's.
And Mr. Tate arrives
right on time too.
[instrumental music]
That is... usual,
except for one thing.
This morning, eleven bank
examiners show up at a bank..
Where only ten
are supposed to call.
[music continues]
The eleventh man?
He's Mr. Tate.
The chief deputy
allocates half his men.
Each man goes to his
previously assigned post.
This man is the branch manager.
His name is Starling.
Remaining men go to their posts
and the day's work begins.
Thorough, quick.
[music continues]
The examiners first step
is a spot check
of all the cash
the tellers have on hand.
A chief teller handles
as much as $150,000
in ready cash at one time.
A lot of money.
But a teller
is bounded and dependable.
It's Friday,
April 10th. 9:45 a.m.
Tomorrow is Saturday
and the bank is closed.
10 o'clock.
The bank is open for business.
Hundreds of people will pass
through these doors
between the hours
of 10:00 and 3:00.
[instrumental music]
Examiners go right on
checking their cash.
Mr. Tate..
He goes on
doing... whatever he's doing.
[dramatic music]
[music continues]
Thank you very much.
I want to recheck
your big money.
Help yourself.
I wonder if you could help me.
I'm sorry.
What can I do for you, miss?
I'd like to open an account.
I'm afraid I can't
help you with that.
You'll have to go
to the "New Accounts Desk."
That's the front
off the building.
[dramatic music]
(Vera)
'Well, I'm in
such a terrible hurry'
'and I'm already late for work.'
Couldn't you break the rules?
Just this once?
I-I'm sorry, miss,
all new accounts
have to go through
that department.
Checked out okay, thank you.
Don't mention it.
Sorry.
Well, if you can't
then I guess you can't.
I have to come back later.
Sorry to have troubled you.
- Pleasure.
- Thank you.
Persistent, wasn't she?
- Hi, Mike.
- Good morning, Kitty.
[dramatic music]
(male narrator)
It was as easy
and as simple as that.
Mr. Tate walked into
the safest place in the world
to keep money,
a national bank..
And walked out
with almost $50,000.
And a man's future.
Michael Donovan's future.
[glass rattling]
No, I'm sorry.
It's ten minutes after.
I'm sorry. No.
[typewriter keys clanking]
Glad that's over again.
You haven't been
a penny short for five years.
Yeah, but you never can tell.
There's always the first time.
Yeah, I guess so.
Forty nine thousand
dollars short.
I must be losing my mind.
- What did you say?
- Hm? Uh, nothing, nothing.
[typewriter keys clanking]
Is there anything wrong?
Uh, no. Nothing.
Goodnight, Mike.
Have a nice weekend.
Oh, m-mister..
[dog barking]
(male narrator)
A $49,900 shortage.
Somewhere, somehow,
there's an answer.
Things like this
just don't happen to a man.
But it has happened to you,
Michael Donovan.
You can put it off till Monday.
But Monday morning will come
so terribly soon.
Better tell your wife, Ruth.
Get it off your chest.
Tell me what's bothering you.
Well..
My cash didn't balance
yesterday.
Is that all?
Where did you go wrong?
I don't know.
You don't know?
Well, how much were you short?
Forty nine thousand,
nine hundred dollars.
- You're joking.
- $49,000 is no joke, Ruthie.
Why that's impossible!
- How could you?
- I don't know!
I just don't know.
[whispers]
Thanks.
What did Mr. Starling say
when you reported it?
I haven't reported it yet.
- Oh, Mike, you should have.
- I know I should have, Ruthie.
But I wanted time to think.
I-I..
What's there to think about?
When you're short,
you've got to report it.
But Ruthie, I, uh..
First thing tomorrow morning.
Alright. First thing
tomorrow morning.
[birds chirping]
Good morning.
Oh, good morning, Mr. Donovan.
Good morning, Mrs. Donovan.
- Good morning, Sam.
- It's a fine day!
Makes you glad you're out..
[indistinct chattering]
- Mr. Starling?
- 'Come in, Mike.'
(Starling)
'Hello, Ruthie. Mornin', Mike.'
I've got to talk
to you, Mr. Starling.
Sit down.
I'll be with you in a second.
Sit down, Mike.
Now, then.
What can I do for you?
Mr. Starling, my cash
didn't balance on Friday.
Oh? Why didn't you
come to me then?
I just couldn't believe
it had happened.
I still can't believe it.
Well, we've straightened these
things out together before..
I know, but $49,900..
Oh, there's nothing
that can't be..
Forty nine thousand,
nine hundred dollars?
Mr. Starling, it must be
in the bank somewhere..
- 'It's got to be.'
- Ruthie, please.
Let me handle this.
How could you possibly
be short all that money?
I just don't know,
I checked
and I rechecked
and it always came up the same.
This is preposterous.
Did anyone come into your cage
during the day?
No, well, Georgia, Ms. Hoard
came in to get change
for some big bills.
And the bank examiners.
They were around all day.
Nobody else?
No, sir.
Mike, I've known you
for a long time.
- I trust you.
- Thank you, sir.
But was very bad judgment not
to report the loss immediately.
I know it was. But I...
Mr. Starling,
what are we going to do?
Well, there's only
one thing we can do.
Call the Bonding Company in
the downtown office right away.
[engines revving]
[intercom buzzing]
Yes?
(female #1)
'Mr. Starling
calling, Mr. Temple.'
- Put him on, please.
- 'Yes, sir.'
Jim! How are you, boy?
Pretty good, Frank.
Wife, family okay?
Fine, fine,
everybody's fine.
Uh, look, Frank.
I have some bad news for you.
Well, let's hear it.
It can't be too bad.
I'm afraid it is.
One of my tellers showed up with
a $49,900 shortage last Friday.
- What? Well, you're kidding!
- 'No, I'm not.'
Last Friday? Well, why
didn't you call us then?
Well, because he just
reported it this morning.
'Well, what's his name?'
Michael Donovan.
Donovan, eh?
Okay, Jim. I'll get
a man right over there.
And don't let Donovan
out of your sight.
I'm sure he's alright, Frank.
[chuckles]
I'm sure you're sure.
- Watch him, anyhow.
- 'Alright, Frank. Goodbye.'
Right.
- 'Yes?'
- Gus Slavin come in yet?
- 'Just walked in, Mr. Temple.'
- Ask him to come in please.
Right away, Mr. Temple.
Boss wants you.
Thanks, honey.
Good morning, Mr. Temple.
Gus, I want you to get
right over to
the Hollywood branch
of the Capitol Bank.
Trouble?
One of the tellers just
reported a $49,900 shortage.
His name is Donovan.
You can take it from there.
Okay, I'm on my way.
Don't worry, sir.
Nobody heists 49,900 from us.
- Nobody.
- I hope you're right.
I know I'm right.
Be seeing you.
It's all kind of silly.
Don't you think, Donovan?
- Hmm? What do you mean?
- You know what I mean.
Oh, look here..
I'd like to see
Mr. Donovan alone
if you don't mind.
Of course not.
You can use the conference room.
Sit down.
Tell you what,
why don't we make it quick?
Who did you sell the dough to?
I don't know
what you're talking about.
But you shoved it to somebody.
Now who was it?
Look, I-I told you,
I don't know anything about it
except that the money is gone.
Yeah, sure. Yeah.
Some young lady maybe?
She conned you into it?
Can't you understand?
I don't know anything about it!
- Want a cigarette?
- No, thanks.
Come on, go ahead.
I said, no thanks.
Look, you're just making it
tough on yourself.
If you weren't working
with someone else
you've hidden
the dough somewhere.
But you get this,
you're never gonna spend
a dime of that money.
'Cause from this moment on,
I'm gonna be right on your tail.
You gotta good reputation,
Donovan.
Don't let one mistake,
mess it up.
All I'm interested in,
is getting the money back.
Now you just tell me
where it is
and nothing happens to ya.
But you be stubborn about it
and you get everything
that I can throw at ya.
Look, if I had taken that money,
do you think I would have walked
into this bank, this morning
and stuck my head in a trap?
Oh, why don't you stop it?
If you hadn't,
you'd reported the loss
before you walked
out of here on Friday.
I wanted time to think.
I was confused!
You wanted time to hide it!
- That's a lie!
- Sit down.
You think you're clean now,
don't you, pal?
All you have to do,
is dummy up and sit and wait.
No, no, I-I..
But you made
one big mistake, mister.
Clipping a Federal Bank
is a big error.
But I didn't do it!
That means
that the FBI will be in on it.
Even you know that the FBI
and the cops don't make deals.
I can.
There's no deal to make.
Look, why don't we try this
just one more time
before I take you down
to police headquarters.
Where's the dough?
I don't know.
Okay, mister.
Come on, let's go.
[instrumental music]
(male narrator)
It's frightening
how fast a man's life
can change in two short days.
Friday, April 10th,
Michael Donovan
went to work as usual.
Just like anybody else.
Monday, April 13th
he's in the Hollywood precinct
in the Los Angeles
police department
under suspicion
of grand theft.
With a sick,
hopeless feeling
right in the middle
of his stomach.
Sometimes,
there just doesn't seem
to be an answer to anything.
One day, the world's alright.
The next, it's nowhere.
Where's the money?
You're from the FBI
why don't you tell me?
Why didn't you take your big
money back to the vault?
- After the examiner checked it?
- I was busy.
You first missed the money
at 3 o'clock?
(Donovan)
'Yeah.'
'Right after the bank closed.'
How was it that you didn't
miss it before that?
I don't know, I was busy,
I just didn't check it.
Forty-nine thousand, nine
hundred's a pretty big score.
Takes a pretty smart guy
to figure a heist like that.
(Donovan)
'Yeah, I guess so.'
You a pretty smart guy, Donovan?
Smart enough not
to try a trick like that.
Your husband pretty much
in debt, Mrs. Donovan?
No.
Not anymore
than anybody else these days.
But you do owe money.
Well, yes.
Doesn't everybody?
How much?
Oh, I don't know offhand.
The house, the car,
some clothes.
How much?
I don't know exactly!
We all make mistakes.
Why don't you tell us about it
and get it off your chest?
I've got nothing to tell,
I didn't take it.
Let me take him over.
I'll get it out of him.
You relax,
we'll handle this.
Who'd you work with on the job?
A woman?
I didn't work with anyone.
- 'Solo, huh?'
- I didn't do it.
Can't you see,
I'm telling the truth.
- They all do.
- Look, Donovan.
You passed the dough
to somebody, now, who?
Gus, you resigned
from the city force.
Now, do you mind?
What have you done
with my wife?
When you opened up,
you got your cash for the day.
Checked everything carefully
and then got ready for work.
- Right?
- Yeah.
He gamble?
What do you mean by gamble?
You know, bet on things
with money.
Well, he plays poker
with the boys, once a week.
'Oh, for what stakes?'
I don't know.
Five cent limit
or something like that.
What about the ponies?
We go out to the track
a couple of times a year.
Don't you?
Well, yes but I think..
We'll ask the questions,
if you don't mind.
He got a bookie?
I thought it was illegal.
I'm sorry you won't
be sensible about this.
I'd hope we wouldn't have
to do it the hard way.
I'd be sensible if I confessed
to something I didn't do?
No.
Not if you didn't do it.
Well, I didn't.
I swear I didn't.
If you're innocent as you say
do you have any objections,
if we search your house?
Yes, I do.
I don't want a bunch of cops
tearing the place apart.
I can get out a search warrant.
Alright, go ahead.
I'm not hiding anything.
No. Well, of course not.
He's not hiding anything.
Not in the house.
Some little cutie's
got the dough
stashed away someplace.
- You're a liar!
- Ah, you punk!
- That's enough.
- Are you calling me a liar?
I said that's enough!
How about the stock market?
He play that?
No.
(male #1)
'What about another woman,
Mrs. Donovan?'
Oh, don't get mad.
Happens to a lot
of fellows.
What have you done
with my wife?
She's alright.
I'll send her out
with the boys
when they make the search.
And take it easy.
If you're innocent,
you've got no worries.
Yeah.
Well, I am innocent.
I've got plenty of worries.
[instrumental music]
What's the matter,
you blind or somethin'?
- What?
- Well, don't you like it?
Oh, yeah, fine, fine.
Maybe the weather report's
more interesting than me, hmm?
- I just don't like it.
- Then, why read it?
Almost a $50,000 theft
and not a line
in the papers about it.
I just don't like it at all.
What're you trying to do, doll?
Start a scrap book?
You don't understand.
They're keeping
the story under wraps.
Now, I won't know
what to do about it.
Oh, honey.
Don't worry about that.
We're doin' alright,
aren't we?
- Yes, but...
- Oh, now, look.
You stop your worrying.
I think
it's just wonderful..
In fact I think
you're the cleverest man
in the whole world.
Now, you just forget all
about that silly old paper
and pay attention.
Hmm, you've got company, honey.
[instrumental music]
[dog whining]
Thanks, Jim.
That's all.
Well?
- Not a sign of it.
- You make a thorough search?
You'd know if your heard
what Mrs. Donovan called us.
I didn't expect
to find much.
Well, it's obvious that he was
working with somebody else.
So, he's had plenty of time to
stash the dough in a safe place.
Maybe.
Come on in, Donovan.
Alright, junior.
Let's stop
playing games, huh?
Where's the dough?
Oh, came up empty, eh?
Alright, you figure out
the next move.
Would you be willing
to submit to the lie detector?
Why not?
I've got nothing to hide.
That thing won't work
and you know it.
It's worked before
and it might help out here.
- You ready?
- Yeah.
Alright.
(male #2)
'Mr. Donovan, I'm going
to ask you a few question.'
Please answer, yes or no
as much as possible.
Your name,
Michael Donovan?
Yes.
- Are you 35 years of age?
- Yes.
- Are you married?
- Yes.
- Do you have any children?
- No.
'You're a bank teller
by profession?'
(Donovan)
'Yes.'
'Did you go straight to work
when you left your home.'
'Friday morning?'
'Yes.'
- Did you stop off any place?
- No.
The examiners began to check
your cash about 10 o'clock?
Yes, by 9:45.
And your cash balance journal
is checked by the examiners?
Yes. Both times.
- Both times?
- Yes.
Do they... usually check
your cash twice?
No, come to think of it,
they don't.
'You're sure?'
Yeah, I'm sure.
'The examiner who checked
your cash the second time.'
'What did he look like?'
Well, he was... stocky,
sort of bald.
- 'Deep voice?'
- No.
I'd like to recheck
your big money.
I'd like to recheck
your big money.
I'd like to recheck
your big money.
High pitched,
sort of nasal.
He had a moustache.
Would you recognize his voice
if you heard it again?
Never forget it.
What did he say?
"We'd like to recheck
your big money."
Is he your accomplice?
No.
'Pulled the job
all alone, eh?'
I didn't pull any job.
'Where's the money now?'
If I knew that, you'd think
I'd be sitting here.
Alright.
[telephone ringing]
- Yes.
- 'Mr. Starling?
- Yes.
- Neil Sanford.
Yes, Neil.
Did you find out anything?
Donovan says the examiners
checked his cash twice.
Is that the usual procedure?
Definitely not.
The examiners
spot check the cash
of every teller immediately
upon arriving at the bank
and that's that.
I've never known them
to check a teller twice.
Unless, of course,
there's an irregularity.
Well, thank you
very much, Mr. Starling.
We'll be talking to you, bye.
Alright, you can
get him outta that.
- Well, what happened?
- Nothing.
Not one offbeat curve.
I told you that machine
was no good.
I've got a hunch
he's telling the truth.
You know something,
I think so too.
Well, I don't.
He's rehearsed that story
till he knows it
as well as
Booth knew "Hamlet."
Telling it again isn't gonna
raise his blood pressure.
What he needs is a taste
of rubber hose.
Stop it.
That routine went out
with the horse and buggy.
Yeah, well, let me tell you
something, mister.
That guy left with 49,900 bucks
and if it's not recovered soon,
my company pays the tab.
I'm gonna see that
that doesn't gonna happen.
I'll use any way I can
to break this guy down.
Send in Ms. Hoard, please.
He said they checked
his cash twice.
Starling says they never
check the cash twice.
Oh, if that's the case..
- Oh, come in, Ms. Hoard.
- Well, thank you.
Sit down.
You work in the next cage
to Mike Donavan?
Yes, I do.
You notice anything unusual
about him the day
the money was missing?
I noticed
he was kind of nervous.
Seemed scared about something.
All day?
No, it was... about 3 o'clock.
Right after the bank closed,
I first noticed it.
Well, then what happened?
Well, then..
He kept rechecking his money.
And I asked him
if anything was wrong
but he said he was alright.
And then, he went back
and got another adding machine
and checked it
all over again.
Tell me, did you, uh..
Did you see anything
of this second bank examiner?
He keeps talking about it.
Uh, stocky man,
balding hair
with a moustache.
No, but I was busy.
There could
have been such a man.
Well, thank you,
Ms. Hoard, that's all.
Yes, sir.
Send in the bank guard, please.
There's one thing
I would like to say.
Yeah?
I know Mike.
And I'm sure
he didn't take that money.
Thanks, he'll be glad
to hear you say that.
Yes, sir.
Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
- Hello, captain.
- Lieutenant.
Uh, yes, sir,
lieutenant.
What can I do for you, sir?
The day the examiners
were there, did you notice
a stocky man with a moustache,
thinning hair?
Hmm, no.
I can't say that I did.
But then you see,
I see so many people
during the day, that is hard
to remember all of them.
But, uh, no.
I don't think so.
Sure?
Well, at least
I don't remember.
Well, thanks.
That's all.
Yeah. Thank you, sir.
Nice to have seen you.
Wait a minute.
I did see a fellow like that.
You did?
Ye-yes, he was banging
on the door.
He wanted to get in.
Did you let him in?
Oh, no, sir,
it was after 3 o'clock
and the bank was closed.
Oh, well, thanks a lot.
- That's all.
- Thank you, sir.
Uh, anything else
I can do?
No, no, if there is,
we'll call you.
Yes, sir.
Thank you, sir.
The bank was closed.
Come on, let's get Donovan
over to the galleries.
We'll... check the mug files.
See if he can identify this guy.
You hope.
Looks like him,
it looks a lot like him?
No, he couldn't possibly
be the guy.
Serving a ten year stretch
in San Quentin.
The bank examiners
are upstairs, lieutenant.
Well, thanks, Phil.
Come on.
[instrumental music]
Can you identify the man
who checked your cash?
This man checked it first.
- That right?
- I checked it, yes, sir.
- No shortage?
- No, sir.
Thank you.
Can you point out
the second man?
Well... he had a moustache
and not too much hair.
Would you mind
taking off your hat?
No, he looks like him
but he's not the man.
- You sure?
- Positive.
Any of you remember
recall such a man?
- No, sir.
- Well, thank you, gentlemen.
That's all.
Donovan, wait outside.
Yeah.
Alright, I don't see
how we can hold him any longer.
Are you guys crazy?
He walks in here
with some cock and bull story
about a second bank examiner
and you wanna let him go
with a pat on the back
and an apology.
- What do you think?
- It's like I said.
I think he's telling the truth.
I appreciate
your position, Slavin.
But don't forget one thing,
letting him out of here for now
doesn't mean he's scot-free.
- You could be right.
- I know I'm right.
If you are, he'll make a mistake
sooner or later.
Meanwhile, we'll start a check
on all known bank robbers
and swindlers.
Also, known bank employees
who've been discharged
during the past year.
We'll be
in touch with you, Neil.
(Neil)
'Right.'
And keep your shirt on.
Getting hot
isn't gonna help a bit.
So long.
[intense music]
- Well.
- Oh, what?
That's that.
You look tired, Mike.
Let's go home.
There wasn't a single line
in any of the papers.
So I guess we're lucky in that.
Yeah.
Let's go home.
[instrumental music]
[music continues]
Good morning, Mr. Donovan.
Oh, uh, Mr. Starling
would like to see you, sir.
Oh?
Thanks.
- You wanna see me?
- Yes, Mike.
I, uh, hate to have
to tell you this
but I'm afraid
I'll have to let you go.
But why?
I'm innocent.
Even Sanford said so.
And I say so.
But unfortunately, Mr. Slavin
doesn't share my opinion.
His company cancelled your bond.
Well, then I'll get bonded
someplace else.
I'm afraid it's not
quite that easy, Mike.
You see when one surety company
cancels, no other company
will issue a policy
guaranteeing your honesty.
- Well, it's not fair.
- I know it isn't.
But my hands are tied.
Tellers must be bonded.
That's part of
the bank regulations.
I'm terribly sorry.
If it were up to me,
I'd put you
right back in that cage
where you belong.
Slavin wants to put me
in another cage
where I don't belong.
Believe me, if there's anything
in the world I can do...
Thanks.
Thanks a lot.
Bye.
(Ruthie)
'Is that you, Mike?'
Yes.
What are you doing home
so early?
I got fired.
What?
Oh, that's not fair.
That's what I told him.
That's the most ridiculous thing
I've ever heard of.
- What are we going to do?
- I don't know.
I'll get another job,
that's all.
We'll get... something.
Come here.
Look.
It's great, isn't it?
First they put you in jail and
then they say you're innocent
and then they fire you
and then they put a tail on you.
Mike.
What?
It's okay,
we-we'll see it through.
You'll get a new job
and everything will be alright.
Sure, everything is
gonna be just dandy.
Ruthie, you believe me,
don't you?
- I love you.
- But do you believe me?
I'll always believe you.
Then everything is
gonna be alright.
Doesn't pay
too much money to start
but there's a real chance
for a go-getter to advance fast.
We have a chain of 12 stations
and we can always use
a good manager.
Sounds wonderful.
When can I start, Mr. Gregory?
Right away.
Tomorrow morning,
if you can make it.
You bet I can.
I'll be here.
- Good, I'll see you then.
- Thank you.
Thank you very much.
I'll see you tomorrow morning.
Alright.
(Ruthie)
'Hi.'
Hi.
What's come over you?
I did it.
- You did what?
- Got a job.
Oh, Mike, no.
That's wonderful. Where?
Uh, it isn't much really
but at least it breaks the ice.
I got a job
at Finley Super Service Station.
"Not much," he says.
Oh, Mike, I'm so proud of you.
Are you really, Ruthie?
Oh, you know I am.
You know this calls
for a celebration.
Celebration? Hey.
I haven't even gotten paid yet.
Never you mind.
You sit right there.
I'll be right back.
- Here you are.
- Hey.
What have we got here?
Oh.
You know something?
[cork pops]
Ah!
You are wonderful.
Thank you very much.
To us.
To us.
[intense music]
Mike.
What's the matter?
Listen, Slavin, I got a job
and I intend to keep it.
- You gonna lay off me or...
- Get your hands off me.
- Mike, please.
- Are you gonna lay off me?
Don't be a chump.
You hit me and I'll have you
locked up in 20 minutes
for assault,
then where would your job be?
Come on, Mike.
Go ahead with her.
She's using here head.
Mike.
Yes, sir.
What can I do for you?
Well, you can't do
anything for me
but maybe I can do you a favor.
Oh? What?
Special investigator.
What's the trouble?
That man out there.
What about him?
Well, you're sure no piker.
You pick the big ones.
Look here, what do you mean?
I mean he's a thief and no
penny ante chiseler either.
That man heisted
almost 50 grand
from the Hollywood branch
of the Capital Bank.
What?
'Course,
it's none of my business.
I just thought
you'd like to know.
Oh, yes, yes.
You were right.
Thank you.
Th-thank you very much.
Oh, it's nothing.
I'll be seein' you.
[intense music]
[music continues]
[tire screeching]
I guess you wanna see me.
Well, I, uh, I'm sorry.
Forget it.
Thanks.
I called you in because I got
a report from the FBI.
Yeah?
What'd they say?
They checked
all ex-bank employees on record.
And?
All of them were
from 50-5000 miles away
at the time of the theft.
Oh. Fine.
- All in but three that is.
- Oh.
And two of them
have air-tight alibis.
- What about the other one?
- He's waiting in the next room.
Be careful.
Nobody knows better than you
what a bad beef
can do for a guy.
Yeah, I know.
Come in, Mr. Johnson.
Repeat after me.
I'd like to re-check
your big money.
"I, uh, I-I'd like
to re-check your big money."
Could you say that
again please?
"I'd-I'd like to re-check
your-your big money."
No.
He's not the man.
Thank, Mr. Johnson, sorry
to have inconvenienced you.
Oh, that's alright,
quite alright.
I hope you find your man.
- Thanks.
- Uh, goodbye.
Cheer up.
We'll keep after it.
How are things going otherwise?
Slavin's hounded me
out of four straight jobs.
Lost the last one
just yesterday.
Took him a week
to catch up with that one.
So I've heard.
I'll have a talk with him.
Tell him to lay off.
Might as well save your breath.
Is that all?
Yeah.
That's all for now.
Oh, uh, thanks for tryin'.
You wanna see me?
Yeah.
What's on your mind?
Why don't you lay off Donovan?
Why? Has he been crying?
He told me, you've been busy
getting him fired.
That's right,
he get's the works
until I get my hands
on that 50 grand.
Or what's left of it.
You're not playing fair, Gus.
Look, you and I are cops
and we've got a job.
I'll admit,
sometimes I don't like
some of the things I have to do.
It's just one big difference.
I'm sure he's innocent.
No.
I'll admit, he's putting on
a pretty good act.
But as soon as
he runs out of dough
he'll lead me
right to that 50 G's.
- You know what I think?
- What?
You're gonna have a long wait.
Maybe, but I still got
six months to pay off.
I'll tell what I'll do, I bet
your new hat that by that time
I have both, Donovan's
confession and the money.
You've got yourself a bet.
[dramatic music]
Discouraged, Mike?
Little.
Aren't you?
No.
We're just starting over,
that's all.
Yeah. That's all.
Well, I'm not worried.
You know it... does look
a little bit
like our first apartment, huh?
- Little.
- Mm-hm.
Now out with you.
I've gotta straighten up
the place
and you'll only be in the way.
Oh, would I?
Out with you.
You would.
Okay.
I love you.
Bye, Mike.
[sobbing]
[indistinct chatter]
(Pete)
'Try not to deadhead back.'
Cruise around,
try and pick up another fare.
Right.
- How are you?
- Alright.
So?
You've got a driver
named Mike Donovan.
So I've got a driver named
Donovan, that's a crime?
That's a criminal.
Tell me more.
I'll tell you plenty more
if you're interested.
Yeah. I'm interested.
Go ahead.
Your boy, Donovan lifted
almost $50,000
off the Capital Bank.
That's very interesting.
One thing interests me
more though.
Yeah? What?
If the guy lifted
almost 50 grand like you say
why ain't he in stir?
As soon as we find out
where he stashed it, he will be.
For a long time.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
Okay.
When he's tossed in the poky,
I'll get myself a new driver.
Till they pick 'em up,
he can work for me
just as long as he keeps
his nose clean.
- Listen, mister...
- Now look.
I don't care
very much for snoopers.
Do me a favor
and get outta here.
Maybe you're gonna be
awfully sorry, mister.
Maybe.
I'm busy. Beat it.
[instrumental music]
Be right with you.
- Six three three one south...
- I don't wanna go home.
I've been cooped up in that
crummy apartment for months.
- Vera, please.
- Oh, please, nothing.
We got a lotta money,
why can't we spend some of it?
Money, money, money.
Can't you think
of anything but money?
[phone rings]
Excuse me.
You know I'm getting
a little fed up with you.
- Be still.
- Don't tell me to be sti...
Look!
Money. Money. Money.
Money. Money. Money.
- Hello, Donovan, 24.
- 'Hello, Mike.'
(Pete)
'Listen..'
Money. Money. Money.
I'd like to re-check
your big money.
I'd like to re-check
your big money.
(Pete)
'Mike? Hello.
Hello. Mike?'
[intense music]
Forget it.
Probably wasn't
the thief at all.
- No.
- Besides.
We're getting along alright now.
I even opened
a bank account yesterday.
Yeah, we
get along alright.
- Still..
- Michael.
- What?
- Forget it.
Forget what?
That's better.
Oh, yes.
And now, Mr. Michael Donovan..
Your paycheck, if you please.
Oh.
Mm. Nice.
Muscle.
- How are you today?
- Just fine, thank you.
Hello, Gus.
What's on your mind?
- Trouble?
- Maybe.
Nothing wrong, I hope.
I'd like to check
an account of yours.
Oh. Who?
A Michael and Ruth Donovan.
They have
anything with you?
Mm, just a minute,
I'll see.
Say, wait a minute.
See if they have
a safe deposit box, will you?
Alright.
- Thank you.
- Here you are.
Here you are.
No checking account.
Just a small savings account.
Eighty nine dollars
and fifty cents.
- That's all?
- That's all.
And they don't have
a safe deposit box.
Okay. Thanks.
Thanks a lot.
- See ya.
- Your welcome.
Goodbye, Gus.
- Here you are, honey.
- Uh-uh.
It isn't pheasant
but it's good for you.
You're good for me.
I got a surprise for you.
What?
- It'll cost you.
- How much?
That much.
See, where was I?
You have a surprise.
Oh, yeah, yeah.
Uh, Pete Tanner.
He wants me to handle
the company's books.
Mike, that's wonderful.
[knock on door]
Well..
I don't know, Ruthie, maybe
I'm better off the way I am.
Oh, you've got to take it.
(Gus)
'Hello, Mrs. Donovan.'
Come in.
What do you want?
Just a little conversation.
Let's make it
as little as possible, uh?
I got work to do.
Sit down.
Thanks.
- Well?
- I'll make it short and sweet.
That'd be nice.
In a couple of weeks
the six months will be up.
That means that my company
stands to pay off $50,000.
That's your problem.
(Gus)
'I didn't expect you to bleed.'
'I thought maybe
you might be interested'
'in a little proposition.'
Might be.
'Look, Donovan..'
I know when I'm licked.
As far I'm concerned,
you're as free as the breeze
and you can stay
that way with a little bonus.
'If you play ball.'
Well, as far as
you're concerned, huh?
That's right.
Go on.
Mike!
It's alright.
I'll tell you what I'll do,
this is my final offer.
You turn over the dough
and you can keep
10,000 for yourself.
What do you say, honey?
What do you mean,
what do I say?
Are you crazy?
Hey, Branson.
No deal.
We're gonna keep all of it.
I'm warning you,
you better change your mind.
Not a chance.
Now if you don't mind..
- I oughta..
- I wouldn't if I were you.
This is my house,
you hit me and I'll have you
locked up in 20 minutes.
And where would your job be?
I'll get you yet, mister,
don't you forget it.
I'm gonna make you wish
you never heard of me.
I feel that way, right now.
Beat it.
[laughing]
He's got a nasty temper.
Mike... you didn't.
Huh?
Oh, of course, not, darling.
But he's been needling me for
six months, it's my turn now.
Besides, where would a married
man be without a sense of humor?
Nowhere, I guess.
You know I got an idea
when Slavin was talking.
Mike, you said you wouldn't.
Yeah, I know, but listen to me
just this once more
then I quit,
I promise, Ruthie.
- Well, make it fast.
- Yeah.
We've been looking at pictures
of all the known criminals
rogues gallery, maybe
that's the wrong approach.
And what's the right approach?
Maybe this guy
doesn't have a record.
Maybe he's a local fellow.
Once worked in a bank
or still does.
Go on.
And if he was
his photograph would be on file
with one
of the bonding companies.
Huh?
I'm gonna look into that.
Okay.
It's worth a chance.
But don't be excited, you'll
just be disappointed again.
And come on, I've got
some errands to do.
- You can give me a lift.
- Alright.
Ruthie, I've got a plan
and you gotta help me.
Now listen, this is
what we're gonna do.
[sighs]
- Alright?
- Mm-hm.
See you in a minute.
[screeching]
Oh, uh, you'd better get
the groceries
and I have to pick up
few things at the cleaners.
Okay.
Don't forget
the coffee drip grind.
I won't forget.
Thank you.
Forgot the coffee.
Forgot the coffee.
Oh.
[tram bell rings]
Almost $50,000 is gone.
You say you didn't
take it, yet it's gone.
And we're responsible
for the loss.
Then you come in here and wanna
look through our files.
- Get outta here.
- Look, Mr. Temple.
I wanna see that money recovered
just as much as you do.
What are you trying to do,
make a chump out of me?
- Get this guy outta here.
- What's he want?
He insists
on looking through our files.
What for?
To identify
the bank robber.
- So let him.
- What?
It's okay, let him.
Alright.
Top drawer, second file.
Look under the D's,
you'll find him.
What's the matter,
didn't you hear me?
I said, look under the D's.
One more crack and we tangle.
Oh, so you got feelings.
What happened
to the iron man?
Why don't you give it up?
There's still time.
Tell me where the dough is.
'Okay, it's your funeral.'
'Like I said,
look under D for Donovan.'
[sighs]
Well..
That does it
for this week.
- Except for one thing.
- What is that?
A bank book.
Needs a little deposit.
I'd better hurry, it's almost
closing, I'll be right back.
- Here you are, thank you.
- Thank you.
- All set?
- Uh-huh.
- Car keys.
- Oh, my bag.
Uh, I'll get it.
These women.
[intense music]
Mike, what in the world?
Teller on the first cage,
the one where you left your bag
he's the guy
I've been looking for.
Oh, Mike, you promised.
I tell you, he's the guy.
You're not letting
your imagination run wild.
We'll soon find out
and I'll stay here watch him
you get to a phone, call Sanford
tell him to meet me right here.
Alright, but please don't do
anything till he gets here.
Don't worry.
Now get goin'.
[intense music]
[intense music]
[music continues]
[music continues]
[intense music]
What do you want?
Why are you following me?
That's it. That's the voice.
You're the guy.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
Let me hear you say
I wanna recheck your big money.
Go on, say it.
Why should I? I don't know you.
I don't know what you mean.
No?
Say it anyway.
We wanna recheck
your big money.
Say it again.
We'd like to
recheck your big money.
- I could kill you.
- No, wait, please!
We can talk this over.
Alright, talk.
I... if I, if I was
the man you're looking for..
Which I'm not admitting,
you understand.
There'd still be no evidence.
You... you can't prove
anything without evidence.
No, wait, please!
We could talk
business if you're..
If you're only reasonable.
Alright, talk reasonable.
We split 50-50
if you keep your mouth shut.
Nobody will
ever know you got it.
Does it sound good?
Let's see it.
I'll send it to ya.
I'll get it for ya.
I want it now,
understand? Now!
Alright, alright,
but it-it's way across town.
63-31 South what?
Chestnut.
Let's go.
[instrumental music]
Hi, M..
63-31 South Chestnut.
[tires screeching]
Get Pete.
[bell buzzing]
You, idiot. You, stupid idiot.
What'd you bring him here for?
I had to.
He threatened to kill me.
- It's too bad he didn't.
- Vera!
How much do you want, mister?
Twenty five thousand dollars.
Who was the fella
that just went in?
- Which one?
- The older one.
What are you,
the census taker?
The name
and apartment number?
Name's Tate,
got a girlfriend in 308.
Thanks.
You're not gonna
give this guy a cent.
What kind of a man are you
letting a sap
like this chisel in on us?
Shut up.
Here it is, but on one
condition... if you see me again
no matter what the circumstances
you don't know me.
We won't meet again...
not if I can help it.
You can't, mister.
Hand it over.
Vera, please! Don't make
trouble. Give him his share.
You make me sick.
Go get the rest of the money.
We're getting out of here.
You know, it'd be
awful hot with you alive.
I'd kinda hate to do it too.
You're sorta cute.
Open up!
[banging on door]
- Pete?
- Who was that?
Vera, don't shoot.
It's the police.
- Open up!
- Give me that..
Give me the money.
Give it to me!
- What's going on here?
- Police.
Do you have a passkey
to this apartment?
Oh, no, let me..
- We gotta get outta here.
- Are you crazy?
I'm not gonna
leave all that money.
Vera, please,
we got our share. Get out!
[instrumental music]
Try the other one.
This is my apartment.
Let me in! I'm...
Out! Out!
Everybody, out!
Well..
I told you it was only
a matter of time, didn't I, boy?
I knew you'd come out
with it sooner or later.
Look, the guy
you want must have
gone out that window with
a girl. We gotta get him.
Oh, sure, the girl.
There's always a girl.
What'd she do?
Run out on you?
Who was the guy?
Your partner?
He was a teller,
name of Tate.
- I caught up with him...
- And I caught up with you.
- Look..
- Just relax.
Don't worry about the girl,
we'll pick her up later.
[tires screech]
- Listen, sweetheart..
- Just remember this.
I go nowhere with you
without that dough.
But, Vera..
You know, with
a few bucks I can stand ya.
Without it, you're just a broken
down, middle-aged bank clerk.
See, there isn't
a squad car in sight.
But the way he acted,
like he was expecting someone.
He's not gonna
get away with that money.
Where's the rest of this?
Somewhere in the bathroom.
I was hoping you'd
try something like that!
You dirty rotten piece of..
Let me in..
Let me in there, I say.
What's the rhubarb? This goon
been bothering you again?
What's it all about, kid?
Pete.
Pete, I found the money.
I got to get to Sanford quick.
Okay, flow,
use the cab downstairs.
We'll take care
of this friend of yours.
What you're doing
is a criminal offence, Tanner.
- Shut up!
- Donovan isn't leaving here!
Shut up. I told you
to shut up.
He's not to
get out of this room!
Look, I'm not gonna
tell you again.
Look! What did I tell you?
- What are you gonna do?
- Get that money.
But how he'll go straight
to the police with it
we can't follow him there.
I'm not gonna follow him.
He's gonna follow me.
Look, he grabbed the bait.
Now, all we gotta do is keep him
movin' away from the cops.
[grunts]
Just like an accordion.
Keep forgetting my own strength.
Let's get out of here.
Poor guy wants to take a nap.
I can't understand it.
He promised he wouldn't do
anything till you got there.
Oh, I wouldn't worry too much.
You go home
and try to relax.
I'll wait around here
in case he calls in.
Alright.
I guess there's
really not much..
[phone ringing]
Sanford speaking.
- What?
- I caught him red-handed.
He's mixed up with some dame.
His boss Pete Tanner and some
hack driver kept me here
while he got away
with the dough.
Yeah, I tell you
I want 'em all picked up.
I'll be in touch
with you, smart guy.
Yeah. Goodbye.
What happened?
Mike just skipped
with the fifty thousand dollars.
I don't believe it.
Where are we going?
A friend of mine
has a beach cottage.
Nice, quiet place where
we make a deal with a Donovan.
Friend? What friend?
None of your business.
The cab number is 388.
The license number is BEX-99834.
Send out a pick up.
Cab number 388.
I was sure
Mike was on the level.
I thought he was
going to the cops.
He is. He'll come back.
You'll see.
He'll explain everything.
I hope so, Mrs. Donovan.
He gone after that
other man, the teller. Mr. Tate.
But he didn't go to Tate's.
He went to the girls apartment.
All I can learn about Tate is,
he's a respectable citizen.
Good worker. Worked at
the same bank for 15 years.
Sure Donovan's in it up to here.
Oh, I don't believe you.
Not Mike.
All we can do is wait.
Maybe he'll try and contact us.
You need us anymore?
No, you can go.
Okay, Charlie, come on.
We got work to do.
Besides, I don't
like the company.
Come on, lover boy.
Just a little further.
We gotta be careful, Vera.
We gotta be careful.
Oh, why don't you shut up.
[instrumental music]
[music continues]
Well, do you see him?
- No.
- He saw us turn, I know he did.
[phone ringing]
Hello? Donovan?
Trace this call,
I'll hold him on the phone.
Donovan, you get in here
and give yourself up.
Are you kiddin'?
Listen, Tate and the girl just
turned on East Zuma road.
That's north of Malibu.
You come on in here
and start playing detective.
I'm not coming in,
and I'm not playing.
You get out here
as quick as you can.
Listen, Donovan,
I'm telling you to..
Get me the Malibu
sheriff's office.
[intense music]
Vera, we've lost him.
Let's turn back.
Forget about the rest of
the money and get out of town.
I don't even think I can
stand you with the money.
[music continues]
[music continues]
[intense music]
[music continues]
[music continues]
Get your hands up.
Get up to the door.
[intense music]
Alright. Get over there.
I'll take the money,
Mr. Donovan.
Nice of you to have
brought it all with you.
You won't get
very far with it.
A lot further than
you're gonna get, mister.
What do you mean?
What do you think I mean?
He's the only one
who can identify us.
Go ahead.
Let him have it.
You don't
want to kill me, Tate.
The most you can get now
is a prison term for theft
if you kill me,
it means the gas chamber.
- Kill him.
- Don't listen to her, Tate.
She'll throw you to
the wolves, you know she will.
Shut up, you..
Let him have it now!
- I can't! I can't!
- Of course you can't.
You're no killer, Tate.
- Shoot him! Shoot him!
- I won't!
I've done everything else
for you, but I'm no murderer.
Vera!
[gunshot]
[Vera grunts]
You in the house
come out with your hands up
before we start shooting.
[instrumental music]
(male narrator)
Well, it's over.
Everything ends
sooner or later.
Even the bad things.
Everything is rosy now
Michael Donovan sitting
on top of the world..
Or is he.
(Neil)
'I'd like to recheck
your big money.'
Neil!
You, uh, think it's
a little too racy for me?
Well, it's got
a lot of you in it.
Yeah, about six feet.
Oh, no..
Don't tell me
he's still trying.
[both laughing]