Perry Mason (1957–1966): Season 1, Episode 17 - The Case of the Sun Bather's Diary - full transcript
A gorgeous woman's trailer was stolen while she was sunbathing, so she asks for Perry's help in finding it. She claims it contains her diary, which details the truthful account of a notorious bank heist her father was convicted for.
( suspenseful theme playing)
( noirish jazz theme playing)
( mellow theme playing)
(birds chirping)
(vehicle approaching)
(engine starting)
( ominous theme playing)
( tense theme playing)
Ever hear the
story of the little girl
who has nothing to wear?
She wants to talk to you.
Heh.
All right, Della, I give up.
No joke.
She lives in a trailer,
and somebody stole it.
Trailer hitch and all, along
with everything she owns.
Everything?
She was sunbathing at the time.
I think she said she was
calling from a golf course.
Must be quite a sensation.
Hello.
WOMAN: Mr. Mason?
That's right.
My name is Arlene Dowling.
I don't know how much
your secretary told you.
Just the bare facts.
Where did you say
you were calling from?
You know the Remuter Golf Club?
Well, my trailer was
parked in the woods nearby.
There's a telephone
for the members on the...
On the 14th tee.
I waited till there
was no one around
Mr. Mason, I need
your help desperately.
Why didn't you call the police?
ARLENE: I can't.
My father is Frank Dowling.
Do you understand
what that means?
All right, Ms. Dowling.
I'll turn you back
to my secretary.
Give her your measurements,
and she'll try and get
some clothes to you.
All right.
We'll start from the top.
What size?
Shoes.
( mellow theme playing)
ARLENE: Well,
that's the whole story.
By the time I got there,
my trailer was gone.
MASON: How did
you happen to call me?
Actually, I've been
meaning to for some time.
Why didn't you?
Let's just say a friend
advised against it.
What friend?
Well, it doesn't matter.
Anyway, when my
trailer was stolen,
I decided to trust my
first instinct and call you.
And not your friend.
No.
What makes you think
the police took your trailer?
I didn't say that.
No, but that was the implication
when you told me your
father was Frank Dowling.
I imagine that's why
you planned on calling me
in the first place.
Mr. Mason, just how much do
you know about my father's case?
Uh, one, he worked
at the main office
of the Mercantile Security Bank.
Two, about nine months ago,
he made up a cash
shipment of almost $400,000.
Three, your father and the bank
inspector sealed the package.
Four, when the armored
truck delivered the shipment,
all they found were
canceled checks.
Now,
have I overlooked something?
Only that my father
didn't take that money.
The jury found him guilty.
He was the only one who
could have made the substitution.
He or the bank inspector.
What was his name?
Oh, you mean Uncle George.
Oh, he's not really my uncle.
I've known him
since I was a child.
His name is George Ballard.
Well, only George Ballard
and your father had the seals,
the access to the
canceled checks
and the keys for
the armored truck.
And as I recall,
Uncle George had an alibi.
I tell you, my
father is innocent.
That's why you've
got to find my trailer.
MASON: I'm a... I'm afraid I
don't make the connection.
I've spent all my time
since dad was convicted
trying to clear him.
I quit my job.
Everything I've learned
these past ten months,
I've written in my diary.
That diary is
hidden in my trailer.
I must have it back.
I'll pay any price.
Would you say it
was worth $1,500?
You'll have it first
thing in the morning.
Is that satisfactory?
Quite.
You can always reach me
through Dr. Ralph
Chandler in Santa Ana.
Kimberly 3-6518.
Kimberly 3-6518.
Just one thing.
I have an unqualified
aversion to being used.
If I find it's happening here...
I'll throw you to the wolves
without the slightest
compunction.
That understood?
Perfectly.
Thank you again.
(door closes)
I just don't
understand that girl.
She didn't bat an eyelash
when you asked her for $1,500.
If she isn't working...
Where is the money coming from?
That's a good question.
I have another one for you.
Where on earth do you
expect to find that trailer?
Well, we could put
Paul Drake on it.
Or we might try the
power of the press.
Let... Let's do that.
Take down an ad.
Wanted.
Used Biltmore
trailer, deluxe model.
MAN: "Will pay top dollar
for one in excellent condition.
Phone Perry Mason,
Madison 5-1190."
Huh, you gotta give
that Mason fella credit.
Oh, I'm disappointed,
Uncle George.
I didn't think he'd
handle it this way.
What's the matter, honey?
What did you expect?
I don't know exactly,
but for $1,500 I certainly
expected a lot more.
You're missing
the point, Arlene.
What do you want Mason to do?
Well, find my trailer.
Exactly. And any way
he accomplishes that
is okay with you, isn't it?
Yes.
Then even if he just
stumbles across it,
it's worth $1,500.
The main thing is to
get the trailer back.
Remember, you
can't go to the police.
I'm not denying
that, Uncle George.
I just don't feel anything
will come of the ad.
Well, you can't tell.
It's so simple, it
just might work.
I learned a long time ago
that the best way is
through the direct approach.
Some fellas get so brilliant
that sometimes they
fall flat on their face.
I guess you're right.
In case Mason does get a lead,
how's he going to contact you?
Through Ralph. Dr. Chandler.
Kind of like that
boy, don't you?
Yes.
If I were you, I'd
watch my step, honey.
He wants to help so much.
Why?
I guess it's because of me.
Because of you,
or because of $400,000?
Now, now, now, now, now.
Don't get mad.
You're a mighty pretty girl.
But just remember, there's
$400,000 floating loose
around this town some place.
You got to practice
an awful lot of medicine
to pick up money like that.
Are you trying to say that...?
I'm just trying to say
that you can't trust
anyone completely.
Not your lawyer,
not your doctor,
not even me.
Yeah, you got to give
that Mason fella credit.
It just might work.
( dramatic theme playing)
(man yawning)
(groans)
Dr. Chandler.
Oh, I guess I'm a little tired.
Ms. Rucker is that the
x-ray on the Finley boy?
It'll keep.
Why don't you go
home and get some rest.
You've been up all night.
No.
This is supposed to be
your day off, remember?
And you're going to get
some sleep if I have to...
burn the office
down to get you out.
Now, I told Mrs.
Markel I'd look in at 5,
and then there's Ms. Vaughn.
You know perfectly well
Dr. Willis can cover for you.
(sighs)
I don't know why
I put up with you.
(rings)
Dr. Chandler's office.
MASON: May I speak
to the doctor, please?
I'm sorry, Doctor isn't in.
Can I help you?
This is Ms. Rucker, his nurse.
My name is Perry Mason.
I'm the attorney
for Arlene Dowling.
She told me I could always
reach her through Dr. Chandler.
I think I may have
a lead to her trailer.
Oh?
W-where is it?
Tell her to meet me
at the Ideal Trailer Mart
on Sepulveda at 10:00.
I can depend on you to
give her the message?
Well, I can't promise
you that, Mr. Mason.
I'll do the best I can.
Thank you.
( ominous theme playing)
Ain't she a beaut?
Nice and clean.
SALESMAN: Yeah, you don't
find 'em like this very often.
How long has it been on the lot?
SALESMAN: Just since last night.
Fellow brought it
in on consignment.
He's asking 2,500,
but I figure he'll
shade it a little
if you're ready to talk turkey.
This is it.
Now, there's a little lady
that knows her own mind.
I think I'd better
advise you, Mr. Hartsel,
this trailer is stolen property.
What?
Belongs to Ms. Dowling here.
Look, mister, I don't
know what you're up to,
but this fella brought
her in yesterday.
And I got his certificate
of registration to...
Look.
Howard Pimm. Yeah.
427 Encino Avenue,
State 9-1499.
That's right.
This certificate is forged.
We'll see about that!
Oh, you go on ahead.
I'll be right with you.
OPERATOR: I'm sorry, sir,
but there is no
state-9 exchange.
Well, have you got a listing
for a Howard Pimm on Encino?
There's a Walter
Pimm on Ventura.
Never mind.
Well?
Perhaps this will help.
Where did you get this
certificate of ownership?
Anything wrong with it?
Well, I thought there
was nothing wrong
with that Pimm feller's.
We better call the police.
There's no need for that.
How much are you
asking for the trailer?
Well, he said he wanted 2,500,
but, uh...
Just a moment, Arlene.
That trailer legally
belongs to you.
Then I can always
get my money back.
Is that correct?
Yeah.
I'd like to take it with me now.
You'll find my car out in front.
Blue convertible.
Need a special hitch?
There's one in the trunk.
You'll need lights too.
You'll find those
next to the hitch.
Looks like you
thought of everything.
I like to think so.
You realize, of course,
you're ignoring my advice.
Yes.
In which case, I must conclude
you have no further
use for my services.
Oddly enough, I've come
to the same conclusion.
Uh, would you mind
terribly if I send the $1,500
around to you this afternoon?
Not at all.
Anytime you want
a trailer found...
just give me a ring.
Well, you gotta
hand it to Mason.
He delivered, all right.
And now you owe him $1,500.
Seems like an awful lot of money
for a couple of hours' work.
But, as the fella
says, a deal's a deal.
And we agreed
that the main thing
was to get the trailer back.
I hate to ask you for the
money, Uncle George.
Oh, that's all right, honey.
Excuse me a minute.
I'll be right back.
(horn honks)
There's some candy
on the radio there.
No, thanks.
(birds chirping)
GEORGE: Here it is!
Well, this ought to
take care of Mr. Mason.
May I ask you a
personal question?
Why I don't keep my
money in the bank?
After the experience
that your father and I had
with the Mercantile Security?
No, thank you.
I'll stick to my own system.
I won't forget this,
Uncle George.
I'm keeping track
of every penny.
Ah, that's all right, honey.
Oh, Arlene.
You won't say a word
to your dad about this.
All right.
That's the girl.
And we let it come
as a big surprise
at the end, huh?
(door opens and closes)
I wasn't long, was I?
Just long enough for
me to finish my cigarette.
Look, Arlene, I...
(sighs)
I hope you don't mind
my telling you this.
I... Oh, I-I know how you
feel about George Ballard.
Wh-what is it, Ralph?
Well, I... I'd hate for
you to be disappointed.
But if I were you, I
wouldn't trust him too far.
(engine starts)
( tense theme playing)
GERTIE: Perry Mason's office.
One moment, I'll connect
you with Mr. Jackson.
Perry Mason's office.
I'm sorry, his line is busy.
Will you wait?
Thank you.
Oh, Ms. Street?
Uh, this just came
for Mr. Mason.
Well, just a minute.
I didn't sign for it.
Oh.
Don't know what
I was thinking of.
Take care of it,
will you, Gertie?
Certainly.
Perry?
MASON: Just a moment, Della.
"Thanks for everything.
I hope the enclosed
is satisfactory."
One thousand five hundred.
Very nice.
I wonder where
she has them made.
Get Paul.
Tell him I want
the complete dope
on the Mercantile
Security theft.
Let him start with the boy
who drove the armored truck.
I thought Ms. Dowling
gave you your walking papers.
I know, I know.
Tell Paul to step on it.
Right.
( dramatic theme playing)
( ominous theme playing)
(horn honks)
They'll be right out, Charlie.
They're just finishin' up.
Boy, they think of
everything, don't they?
Oh, a pal of mine
works for you people.
Maybe you know him.
Name's Bill Emory.
Guess you haven't seen
Emory in quite a while.
No, I haven't. Why?
He was fired.
No kiddin'. What happened?
Better ask him.
Well, gee, I...
I haven't heard
from Bill in a year.
Have you got any idea
where I could reach him?
Last I heard, he was living
in the Layton apartments
in North Hollywood.
If he ain't there, you might
try the corner poolroom.
Thanks a lot.
I can't tell you how I
appreciate this, fella.
Oh!
If you happen to see him first,
would you tell him that
Paul Drake's looking for him?
Thanks.
( ominous theme playing)
Bill Emory around?
(billiard balls clack)
Thank you.
Nice shot.
Lookin' for a game?
No, you're too good.
You Bill Emory?
Who are you?
Think you could spare
me a few minutes?
Mister, I could spare
you a few years.
What's on your mind?
You used to work for the
Mercantile Security Bank.
Is that what you came
out here to talk about?
Mm-hmm.
Huh, take it easy.
Take it easy?
What do you think I've been
doing for the past ten months?
Don't this look like it?
You know, hustling suckers
is the greatest
career in the world.
Some days, I make
as much as 5, 6 bucks.
Maybe I could help you.
Can you help a guy get a
job that's been blacklisted?
Maybe.
Are you from the
Mercantile Security?
No.
The insurance company?
Now, let's say at the
moment I'm working for myself.
Now, tell me something.
Do you want to go on like this?
It seems to me your only chance
is to help find the
parties responsible.
(chuckling): Are you kiddin'?
Everybody knows
it's Frank Dowling.
He's got the money
all nicely tucked away.
It'll be a nice annuity
when he comes out.
His daughter
claims he's innocent.
What did you expect?
Would you tell me
what happened that day?
Okay.
I've told it 20
times to the police.
I guess another time can't hurt.
It was a Tuesday morning.
May 3rd, to be exact.
It was about, uh, 7:30 when
the dispatcher called me
to take a shipment over
to the Santa Ana branch.
How many men
work on these trucks?
Just the driver.
Isn't that a little dangerous?
Not on these new
babies. That's all you need.
There's a two-way radio
right next to the driver.
But suppose you
ran into trouble,
can't use the radio.
Look, Mr. Mason,
you have to see
one of these trucks
in order to appreciate it.
They thought of everything.
Even if the mob
did grab the driver,
it wouldn't do 'em any good.
You gotta have a key.
And the driver doesn't have one.
Are you kiddin'?
There are only two
keys in the main office.
The inspector has one,
and the guy who makes up
the cash shipment has the other.
That means that
Frank Dowling and...
And George Ballard.
They blacklisted him too.
Nice people, huh?
Any idea where I
can locate Ballard?
Well, he lives
somewhere in Burbank.
You'll probably
find it in the book.
I wanted to call
the office anyway.
You've been a great help.
Uh, would you
be offended if I...
No, thanks, Mr. Mason.
I'll make out.
Just as long as there are guys
who think they know
how to shoot pool.
Good luck.
(coins clang in phone)
Gertie, let me speak
to Della, please.
Hello, Della?
What's new?
I'm glad you asked.
Guess what just arrived
for you by registered mail.
Another $1,500 from
your former client,
Ms. Arlene Dowling.
Want me to read the note?
Please.
"Dear Mr. Mason:
"Sorry if I seemed capricious,
but the enclosed $1,500
should make up for it."
It's signed, "Arlene Dowling."
That doesn't make sense.
Why would she send
me another $1,500?
I don't know.
Oh, incidentally,
there's a process server
been looking for you.
He's been hanging
around all afternoon.
He has a subpoena duces tecum.
And he wants me to appear before
the grand jury tomorrow morning
with all monies I collected
from Arlene Dowling.
Where did you buy
your crystal ball?
Listen, Della.
If anyone calls, you
haven't heard from me.
I'm going over to Burbank
to see a man named Ballard.
I'll check with you later.
( suspenseful theme playing)
(doorbell buzzes)
MAN (over radio): It's been
a tight and exciting race
so far this season.
Sandy, down, down.
Come in, Mr. Mason.
Well, I suppose you're
surprised that I know who you are.
Well, to tell the truth, I saw
your picture in the paper.
Sandy, let Mr. Mason alone.
Sit down? Thank you.
So if someone should tap
you on the shoulder and ask,
you tell him from me:
the Beavers are a cinch
to do it again this year.
Till tomorrow night, same time,
this is your old buddy Red
Walsh sayin'...good night.
Ever listen to him?
He's on every night at 8.
Sure knows his sports.
You ought to give
him a listen sometime.
I will.
Well, what can I do for you?
I'm looking into the Mercantile
Security swindle, Mr. Ballard.
(laughs)
If that ain't the
darnedest thing.
That happened
almost ten months ago,
and they haven't
forgotten it yet.
Why don't they give it up?
I can think of almost 400,000
reasons why they shouldn't.
Well, it's high time
somebody like you got into it.
I understand that
you and Frank Dowling
made up that shipment together.
Now, you've got to
understand, Mr. Mason,
Frank and me worked
side by side for years.
We trusted each other.
That's perfectly natural.
Perfectly.
Well, to tell you the truth,
on this particular day,
we didn't exactly
follow routine.
I'd made a bet on a horse,
and I was checking the
results in the locker room.
Frank made up the shipment.
I was gone... well,
uh, not over a minute.
So then, when you
sealed that package,
you couldn't swear
the money was inside.
Now, look, Mr. Mason.
You can't work 12
years alongside of a man
and not know what
makes him tick.
Frank Dowling was just
as honest as they come.
He didn't take that money.
Do you have any idea who did?
No.
But I'll tell you one thing.
If you can find a guy with
a $1,000 bill stashed away
with a serial number 00581,
he's your boy.
Oh?
There's a record of
the serial numbers?
There's a record of
at least one big bill.
I told that to the cops,
right after the robbery.
(chuckles)
It's remarkable that
you remember it.
Well,
wouldn't you?
If it meant 2,500
smackers in your pocket?
(laughs)
Maybe you think I'm crazy,
but the day of the robbery
I got this tip that I
was telling you about.
It was in the fifth race,
and the number of
the horse was eight.
And, naturally, you wanted
your horse to come in first.
And believe it or not,
right on top of the stack
was this $1,000 bill with
the serial number 00581.
I figured it was an omen.
How'd you do?
(chuckles)
He won.
And I had 100
smackers on his nose.
Heh.
I guess you must
think that I'm nuts,
making a bet like that,
but, you see, I
haven't any family and,
well, gambling is my only vice.
(chuckles): Well,
That is, uh,
gambling and a, heh,
little nip once in a while.
Oh, uh, would you like
to have a little... heh?
Love to.
All right.
I'll be back in just a minute.
Sandy, now, don't
you bother Mr. Mason.
I'll be in as soon as I
can find a corkscrew.
Take your time.
What did you say the
number on that bill was?
00581.
( ominous theme playing)
Well...
Here's looking at you.
Thank you.
( mysterious theme playing)
How do you like those
potatoes, sergeant?
You see what I did?
Yeah. Why do you suppose
Ballard signaled her?
That wasn't Ballard.
He's a short, little duck.
(engine starts)
Wish we got a peek
at that license plate.
Our orders were to
stick with Ms. Dowling.
Yeah...
Didn't that guy
look kind of familiar?
Huh?
That fella that just left.
I know I've seen him somewhere.
You notice the way
he carried himself?
He looked like a guy who
could take care of himself.
Could it have been Perry Mason?
Mason?
Yeah.
This dame's his client.
That's who it was. Mason.
Neil, what do you suppose
that business with the
window shade meant?
I don't know,
but I don't like it.
Come on. Let's go in.
( suspenseful theme playing)
(doorbell buzzes)
(knocking)
Mr. Ballard?
Mr. Ballard?
(dog whimpering)
Maybe the girl's still around.
You better call Homicide.
Right.
Police headquarters, please.
( tense theme playing)
You understand, of course,
that you've been
summoned before this body
not as an attorney,
but as an ordinary citizen
who has witnessed a murder.
I hate to disagree
with you, Mr. Burger,
but I did not
witness any murder.
You'd have this jury
believe that you know nothing
of the manner of
George Ballard's death?
That's exactly what
I'd have them believe.
BURGER: I see.
Does the name Arlene
Dowling mean anything to you?
It does.
Are you aware that
she has disappeared?
I read of her disappearance
in this morning's paper.
Oh, come now, Mr. Mason.
As Ms. Dowling's attorney...
I am not Ms. Dowling's attorney.
BURGER: She retained
you just Monday.
And discharged
me the following day.
Why?
Obviously, she was dissatisfied.
BURGER: But she paid you a fee.
I've credited Ms. Dowling's
account with $1,500.
The money to which I refer
came in yesterday's mail.
Two bills and a
note that I assume
was in Ms.
Dowling's handwriting.
Hm. You assume?
Yes, I'm not familiar
with her handwriting.
You were served a subpoena
duces tecum last night.
Is that correct? It is.
You were ordered
to bring with you
all monies in your
possession from Ms. Dowling.
Have you those bills with you?
(rustling)
Something wrong, Mr. Burger?
Never mind.
Let's get back to the matter
of George Ballard's death.
Is it not true
that a few moments
before you left his home,
you went to the window
and signaled Ms. Dowling
by lowering and
raising the shade?
No, it is not true.
Maybe I should remind
you, you're under oath.
I'm an attorney, Mr. Burger.
I need no such reminder.
Will the sergeant at arms
call Detective Myers, please?
You're excused, Mr. Mason.
Thank you.
BURGER: You were
assigned to follow Ms. Dowling?
That's right, sir.
Did you follow her last night?
Yes, sir. She took a
cab to 1427 Glendon.
That's where Mr. Ballard lives.
BURGER: Did she go in?
MYERS: Not right away.
There was a man
standing by the window.
He pulled the shade,
then raised it again.
A couple of seconds later,
he came out and drove away.
What did Ms. Dowling do then?
She went in the back way.
Did you recognize the man
who signaled to Ms. Dowling?
Yes, sir.
What was his name?
Perry Mason.
Are you sure of that?
Absolutely. I've known
Mr. Mason for years.
Thank you.
Ladies and
gentlemen of the jury,
you've just heard the
testimony of Detective Myers.
It completely
contradicts the testimony
of the previous witness.
I therefore ask you to bring
an indictment for perjury
against Perry Mason.
( dramatic theme plays)
( suspenseful theme playing)
I don't like it, Perry.
No, I'm afraid the photographer
didn't capture the real me.
Now what have you
got up your sleeve?
Just a hunch.
But I'm convinced I
was right about Dowling.
He certainly didn't kill Ballard
from his cell in San Quentin.
His daughter could.
She was on the scene.
On the other hand,
it might be a frame.
Mm-mm.
The police claim only
a few minutes elapsed
between the time
you left Ballard's house
and Arlene entered.
Then, obviously, one of
us must have killed him.
(chuckles)
And just who do you think
Mr. Burger is rooting for?
Me?
I guess I'll have to prove
I didn't signal Arlene.
Get Lieutenant
Tragg on the phone.
I'll show him the real reason
I was fooling around
with that window shade.
Better be good, Mason.
If Burger knows I let you
in, he'll have my scalp.
What's this all about?
Burger claimed I signaled
Arlene Dowling from here.
Well, didn't you? No!
Well, why'd you horse
around with that shade?
Now, don't tell me you
were just being playful.
I had some evidence I
wanted to conceal for a while.
I give you my word, Tragg.
You know what that's worth.
Now, don't start
parking yourself.
I want to lock up. Come on.
Come on.
(phone ringing)
Dr. Chandler's office.
This is Perry Mason. May
I speak to Dr. Chandler?
(whispers): Perry Mason.
I'm sorry, he isn't in.
Ms. Rucker? Yes.
Ms. Rucker, I must get in
touch with Arlene Dowling.
I'm afraid I can't help you.
It's very important.
I'm sorry, there's
nothing I can do.
Did she hang up? Yes.
Well, where do we go from here?
We can't make any plans
till we figure out what
Burger's gonna do.
If I know my esteemed colleague,
he'll bypass the grand jury
and file a complaint
against Arlene
for the murder of Ballard.
Then he'll ask for a
preliminary hearing
and call me as a witness
for the prosecution.
I've gotta find that girl.
(rhythmic knocking on door)
It's Paul.
Hello, beautiful.
Well, where do the
relatives of the deceased sit?
Front row, center.
You didn't find her.
No, but I found something else.
Kid who swiped the trailer.
Let me see.
Hey, this is the messenger.
This is the one that
delivered the envelope
with the first $1,500.
You're positive?
Positive.
MASON: Nice work, Paul.
Let's have the details.
His name's Tom Sackett.
He used to live at the
Wainwright apartments.
Used to?
Checked out a
couple of nights ago
and grabbed a
bus for Mexico City.
I figure he was scared
off by Ballard's murder.
That's only a guess, mind you.
Makes sense. I wish
Arlene were here.
Maybe she'd know more about him.
DELLA: How about Bill Emory?
Good idea. Get him up here.
Probably reach
him in that poolroom.
What do you want me to do?
(sighs)
Keep looking for Arlene Dowling.
Okay, Perry.
MAN (over radio): And the police
are engaged in one of the biggest
manhunts in the
history of California.
But the quarry is a female.
Redheaded, blue-eyed,
Arlene Dowling,
who is accused of
murdering Frank Ballard.
Ms. Dowling has been
reported as far north as Portland.
But local authorities
discount these stories,
convinced that she is
still somewhere in the city.
It was in connection
with this same case
that Perry Mason,
noted defense attorney,
was indicted by the grand jury.
District attorney
Hamilton Burger,
who has taken personal
charge, said he...
(clicks radio off)
( romantic theme playing)
Oh, I was so afraid
you wouldn't come.
I had to see you
once more before I left.
I'm going to Canada.
You can't do that.
Arlene, running away would
be the worst possible thing to do.
I didn't kill Ballard.
Of course you didn't.
But that's why
you've got to stay.
Running away would
be an admission of guilt.
Oh, I've ruined everything.
I only wanted to help my father.
Maybe you'd better see Mason.
Oh, no.
Now, why not?
You're the only one I can trust.
Big help I've been.
Oh, if it weren't for you
the police would've
caught me long ago.
Ralph, what am I going to do?
Darling, will you do
me a favor? What?
Talk to Mason.
All right.
What do you say, Bill?
Do you recognize him?
His name is Sackett.
Thomas Sackett.
I'm not sure.
I think I've seen him
around somewhere,
but it was some time ago.
Was it with Frank Dowling?
George Ballard?
Hey, wait a minute.
Yeah, that's it.
It was in the doc's office.
Dr. Chandler's office?
Are you a patient of his?
We all were. Ballard, Dowling,
everybody who worked
for the Mercantile Security.
He was the doc for the bank.
Would you be willing to
swear you saw Sackett
in Chandler's office? Sure.
There's a preliminary
hearing tomorrow morning.
I want you there.
(intercom buzzes)
Excuse me.
What is it, Della?
Perry, will you talk
to Ms. Dowling?
You know I will. Put her on.
Mr. Mason, this
is Arlene Dowling.
You realize I've been looking
all over creation for you?
Would you consider
representing me again?
Why, your trailer missing?
I guess I deserved that.
Do you know Maple and
Sunset in Beverly Hills?
Yes.
I'll pick you up there
on the northwest
corner in one hour.
I almost gave up hope
of ever seeing you again.
You don't know
how close you came.
I have a ticket for
Montreal in here.
Did you murder George Ballard?
Did you?
Why did you go to see
Ballard on Monday night?
I was in trouble.
Remember when I met
you at the trailer mart?
How could I ever forget?
Well, when I
went into the trailer
to look for my
diary, it was gone.
Instead, I found $18,000
in the compartment.
That seems like a fair exchange.
I knew it belonged to the bank.
And then I realized why
my trailer was stolen.
It was to plant the money
there so the police could find it.
Is there anything in your
diary that could incriminate you?
Suppose there is.
If there is, whoever
masterminded this little plot
is gonna make sure it falls
right into Burger's hands.
Of all people, why did you
pick Ballard as a confidant?
He was helping me.
You mean he was supplying
you with all that money?
Where did he get it?
It was his life savings.
And he was giving it to you?
He was lending it to
me for a good cause.
He felt that my
father was innocent.
Does your father know you
were taking money from Ballard?
No, I didn't tell him. He
would have been angry.
He thought that Ballard
helped convict him.
Do you think he did?
Aren't you being ridiculous?
It would have given you
a logical motive to kill him.
Ballard was dead
when I walked in.
Right after you left.
That what you plan to
tell the district attorney?
Listen, Arlene.
Burger's out to get me.
He may offer to let you
plead guilty to manslaughter
instead of murder
if you say that...
(siren wailing)
We've got company.
Oh, you mustn't stop.
I'm sorry. I don't
have any choice.
You told them you
were meeting me.
You've got to trust me.
No matter what happens,
you've got to trust me.
Understand?
(wailing continues)
(wailing stops)
Where's the fire, Mr. Mason?
What's the idea, Tragg?
The idea is perfectly simple.
This little lady's
wanted for murder.
I want to make sure she
shows for the hearing tomorrow.
All right, Ms. Dowling.
( ominous theme playing)
(engine starts)
BURGER: And is
it not true, officer,
that on entering the premises
at 1427 Glendon Avenue,
you found the body of the
murdered man, George Ballard?
Yes, Sergeant Neil
was with me at the time.
How long did you wait outside
with Neil before you entered?
A couple of minutes.
Could you place the
time more exactly for me?
I'd say a few minutes after 9.
That's as close as I can come.
Did you see someone
at the window?
Yes, sir. Perry Mason.
(chattering)
You may cross-examine.
Officer Myers, you're positive
you saw me at the window
shortly before you
entered Mr. Ballard's home?
Absolutely.
You recognized me immediately?
Yes.
You said to
Sergeant Neil, quote:
"That's Perry Mason
at the window"?
Well, no, I mentioned
you looked familiar,
and Neil said, "Could
it have been Mason?"
What was your reaction to that?
Well, after he said it,
I realized it was you.
But you didn't arrive
at that conclusion
until after you discussed
it with your superior?
No, sir.
No further questions.
Your Honor, I think
I can now explain
the circumstances surrounding
the death of George Ballard
if the court will
allow me the liberty.
BURGER: I object, Your Honor.
The state has gone to
a great deal of trouble
to prepare its case.
There's no need for
Mr. Mason to explain anything.
My offer was made in
the interest of expediency.
BURGER: Was it expediency
or self-interest, Mr. Mason?
No doubt you're aware
I intend to call you
as a witness for the state.
If it please the court, I'd
like to present my case
without any further
help from Mr. Mason.
Mr. Burger, call
your next witness.
Thank you, Your Honor.
I call Dr. Ralph Chandler.
Why did they call him?
Raise your right hand.
Do you promise the
testimony you're about to give
is the truth, the whole truth
and nothing but the truth?
I do. Be seated.
BURGER: Would you be good enough
to give us your full name
and address, please?
Dr. Ralph Chandler, 723
Blue Bell Avenue, Santa Ana.
How long have you known
the defendant, Arlene Dowling?
Well, eight or nine years.
During these
eight or nine years,
did you become familiar
with her handwriting?
Yes.
I'm gonna show you
something, doctor.
I want to remind you
that you're under oath.
This purports to be the
diary of Arlene Dowling.
I want you to
look at it carefully
and tell us if, in your
opinion, it is her handwriting.
Yes.
I want you to look specifically
at the items of June
7th and June 9th.
You'll notice that at that time,
Ms. Dowling suspected
that George Ballard,
the murdered man,
might be implicated
in the theft.
Objection. If Your Honor please,
since the witness has testified
that the document is in
my client's handwriting,
I'm entitled to
look at it myself.
For all we know, certain
entries may be forged.
The witness will turn the
diary over to Mr. Mason.
All right, doctor,
that will be all.
I may want to re-call you
later. Thank you, doctor.
Just a moment. I
wish to cross-examine.
He hasn't testified to anything
you can cross-examine him on,
except the handwriting
of the defendant.
He stated he was a doctor.
I'd like to know
his qualifications.
Dr. Chandler, I've been
given to understand
that you are the physician for
the Mercantile Security Bank.
Is Frank Dowling
one of your patients?
CHANDLER: Yes, he was.
What about George
Ballard and Bill Emory?
I treated them all.
Does the name Thomas
Sackett mean anything to you?
He was a patient of mine too.
Did you give Sackett
a diathermy treatment
on Wednesday, April 4th,
and again on
Wednesday, April 11th?
My nurse may have.
Wednesday is my day off.
Thank you, doctor. That's all.
JUDGE: Call your next witness.
If the court please, this
is an unusual situation.
I want to call the
attorney for the defense.
I realize this is
highly irregular.
Mr. Mason has already
appeared before the grand jury.
And although I hate to say so,
it's possible he may
be an accessory.
I understand, Mr. Burger.
Mr. Mason, will
you take the stand?
Of course, you're
entitled to refuse to answer
any questions which may
tend to incriminate you.
(sarcastically): Thanks.
Raise your right hand.
Do you promise the
testimony you're about to give
is the truth, the whole truth
and nothing but the truth?
I do.
Be seated.
I'll get right to the
point, Mr. Mason.
Are you aware that the
police discovered $18,000
in your client's trailer?
I am now.
Where do you think
the money came from?
Surely you know, Mr. Burger,
that what I think isn't
admissible as evidence.
All right, Mr. Mason.
Let's stick to facts within
your own knowledge.
Did you visit George
Ballard at his home
on the evening of June 16th?
Yes, I did.
And did you lower and then
raise the shade in his living room?
Yes.
Well, you denied that
in front of the grand jury.
MASON: I beg your pardon.
If you'll refer to the
grand jury record,
you'll find that you asked me
if I lowered and
raised the shade
as a signal to the defendant.
Well, what possible explanation
could there be
for such behavior?
Well, in my
possession at that time
were two large bills
which had been given me.
On one of them, I found
the serial number 00581.
I felt those bills were
given to incriminate me,
so while Mr. Ballard was in
the kitchen pouring a drink,
I rolled them up in
the window shade.
And Ballard was
alive at that time?
Of course.
And since Arlene Dowling
entered immediately
after your departure...
MASON: Who said so?
Oh, come now, Mr. Mason.
Let's not waste time in evasion.
You now admit
that Detective Myers
saw you at the window.
I admit nothing of the kind.
He saw someone at the window
who answered my
general description,
but it most assuredly
was not me.
When I entered
Mr. Ballard's home,
he was listening
to a sportscaster.
Sportscaster by the
name of Red Walsh,
who is on the
air from 8 to 8:15.
Now, we listened to
the end of the sportscast,
talked about five
minutes, had our drink.
Then I left.
It could not possibly
have been later than 8:25.
So?
So Officer Myers placed the time
of seeing the man
at the window at 9:00,
over one half-hour later.
Do you mean to tell me...?
I mean to tell you the man
Officer Myers saw at the window
was Ballard's murderer.
If he was the murderer,
what was he doing
at the window shade?
He was removing the
money I had hidden there.
And I suppose you
know who the man was.
MASON: Yes.
The man largely responsible
for the Mercantile
Security robbery.
May I direct your
attention to Dr. Chandler?
Frank Dowling, the man
convicted of the Mercantile theft,
was one of
Dr. Chandler's patients.
Now, patients undergoing a
complete physical examination
would naturally disrobe.
It was a simple matter, then,
to remove from their
clothing keys and seals
and take impressions of them.
These impressions
were later turned over
to an expert forger
named Thomas Sackett,
who made copies.
I think you'll find
Mr. Sackett is in Mexico City.
Then you're saying Dr. Chandler
masterminded this theft.
You're jumping to
conclusions, Mr. Burger.
The very same argument I
used against Dr. Chandler
can also be used against
someone who works for him.
Someone he trusted
completely enough
to go everywhere with
him, including the bank.
I am referring, of course,
to Dr. Chandler's
nurse, Helen Rucker.
If Your Honor please,
this has nothing to do
with the present case.
Your Honor, it has everything
to do with the present case.
Helen Rucker and her
confederate, Thomas Sackett,
made up a dummy sack
filled with canceled checks
and sealed like the original.
They then turned it over
with the key for the truck
to the only man who could
have made the substitution safely.
The man who followed
me to Ballard's house
and killed him.
The man Officer Myers
saw at the window.
His name is Bill Emory.
He's in this courtroom.
I've pointed him
out to the bailiffs.
( suspenseful theme playing)
Look what just
arrived in the mail
from Bushwick Indemnity.
"Pay to the order
of Perry Mason 25...
Twenty-five thousand dollars."
Very nice.
Endorse this over
to Frank Dowling.
After all, Della, the
man's been in jail.
As far as we're concerned,
it's just another case.
My mother always told
me to turn the other cheek.
I'll take care of this when
we get back to the office.
I'm famished.
Amy.
Thank you, Amy.
Now, mademoiselle,
the rarest of delicacies
are yours for the asking.
Would you care to order?
Coffee, bacon and eggs.
Did you get all that, Pierre?
Are you buying, Mr. Moneybags?
Moneybags?
I heard about the
$25,000 reward.
Some people have all the luck.
Is that what you
call it, Mr. Burger?
Yes.
By the way, what made
you decide on Emory?
You.
Huh?
Obviously, you were tipped off
that I was meeting Arlene
at Sunset and Maple Drive.
Well, what if I was?
That information could only
have come from Bill Emory.
He was in my office when
Arlene telephoned me.
(Mason chuckling)
I see.
The indictment for perjury
against you has been quashed.
Thank you.
Under the circumstances,
the least I can do
is to buy your lunch.
All right, if you insist.
MASON: I do insist.
Amy.
One order of crow
for the gentleman.
He'll eat it here.
( noirish jazz theme playing)
( noirish jazz theme playing)
( mellow theme playing)
(birds chirping)
(vehicle approaching)
(engine starting)
( ominous theme playing)
( tense theme playing)
Ever hear the
story of the little girl
who has nothing to wear?
She wants to talk to you.
Heh.
All right, Della, I give up.
No joke.
She lives in a trailer,
and somebody stole it.
Trailer hitch and all, along
with everything she owns.
Everything?
She was sunbathing at the time.
I think she said she was
calling from a golf course.
Must be quite a sensation.
Hello.
WOMAN: Mr. Mason?
That's right.
My name is Arlene Dowling.
I don't know how much
your secretary told you.
Just the bare facts.
Where did you say
you were calling from?
You know the Remuter Golf Club?
Well, my trailer was
parked in the woods nearby.
There's a telephone
for the members on the...
On the 14th tee.
I waited till there
was no one around
Mr. Mason, I need
your help desperately.
Why didn't you call the police?
ARLENE: I can't.
My father is Frank Dowling.
Do you understand
what that means?
All right, Ms. Dowling.
I'll turn you back
to my secretary.
Give her your measurements,
and she'll try and get
some clothes to you.
All right.
We'll start from the top.
What size?
Shoes.
( mellow theme playing)
ARLENE: Well,
that's the whole story.
By the time I got there,
my trailer was gone.
MASON: How did
you happen to call me?
Actually, I've been
meaning to for some time.
Why didn't you?
Let's just say a friend
advised against it.
What friend?
Well, it doesn't matter.
Anyway, when my
trailer was stolen,
I decided to trust my
first instinct and call you.
And not your friend.
No.
What makes you think
the police took your trailer?
I didn't say that.
No, but that was the implication
when you told me your
father was Frank Dowling.
I imagine that's why
you planned on calling me
in the first place.
Mr. Mason, just how much do
you know about my father's case?
Uh, one, he worked
at the main office
of the Mercantile Security Bank.
Two, about nine months ago,
he made up a cash
shipment of almost $400,000.
Three, your father and the bank
inspector sealed the package.
Four, when the armored
truck delivered the shipment,
all they found were
canceled checks.
Now,
have I overlooked something?
Only that my father
didn't take that money.
The jury found him guilty.
He was the only one who
could have made the substitution.
He or the bank inspector.
What was his name?
Oh, you mean Uncle George.
Oh, he's not really my uncle.
I've known him
since I was a child.
His name is George Ballard.
Well, only George Ballard
and your father had the seals,
the access to the
canceled checks
and the keys for
the armored truck.
And as I recall,
Uncle George had an alibi.
I tell you, my
father is innocent.
That's why you've
got to find my trailer.
MASON: I'm a... I'm afraid I
don't make the connection.
I've spent all my time
since dad was convicted
trying to clear him.
I quit my job.
Everything I've learned
these past ten months,
I've written in my diary.
That diary is
hidden in my trailer.
I must have it back.
I'll pay any price.
Would you say it
was worth $1,500?
You'll have it first
thing in the morning.
Is that satisfactory?
Quite.
You can always reach me
through Dr. Ralph
Chandler in Santa Ana.
Kimberly 3-6518.
Kimberly 3-6518.
Just one thing.
I have an unqualified
aversion to being used.
If I find it's happening here...
I'll throw you to the wolves
without the slightest
compunction.
That understood?
Perfectly.
Thank you again.
(door closes)
I just don't
understand that girl.
She didn't bat an eyelash
when you asked her for $1,500.
If she isn't working...
Where is the money coming from?
That's a good question.
I have another one for you.
Where on earth do you
expect to find that trailer?
Well, we could put
Paul Drake on it.
Or we might try the
power of the press.
Let... Let's do that.
Take down an ad.
Wanted.
Used Biltmore
trailer, deluxe model.
MAN: "Will pay top dollar
for one in excellent condition.
Phone Perry Mason,
Madison 5-1190."
Huh, you gotta give
that Mason fella credit.
Oh, I'm disappointed,
Uncle George.
I didn't think he'd
handle it this way.
What's the matter, honey?
What did you expect?
I don't know exactly,
but for $1,500 I certainly
expected a lot more.
You're missing
the point, Arlene.
What do you want Mason to do?
Well, find my trailer.
Exactly. And any way
he accomplishes that
is okay with you, isn't it?
Yes.
Then even if he just
stumbles across it,
it's worth $1,500.
The main thing is to
get the trailer back.
Remember, you
can't go to the police.
I'm not denying
that, Uncle George.
I just don't feel anything
will come of the ad.
Well, you can't tell.
It's so simple, it
just might work.
I learned a long time ago
that the best way is
through the direct approach.
Some fellas get so brilliant
that sometimes they
fall flat on their face.
I guess you're right.
In case Mason does get a lead,
how's he going to contact you?
Through Ralph. Dr. Chandler.
Kind of like that
boy, don't you?
Yes.
If I were you, I'd
watch my step, honey.
He wants to help so much.
Why?
I guess it's because of me.
Because of you,
or because of $400,000?
Now, now, now, now, now.
Don't get mad.
You're a mighty pretty girl.
But just remember, there's
$400,000 floating loose
around this town some place.
You got to practice
an awful lot of medicine
to pick up money like that.
Are you trying to say that...?
I'm just trying to say
that you can't trust
anyone completely.
Not your lawyer,
not your doctor,
not even me.
Yeah, you got to give
that Mason fella credit.
It just might work.
( dramatic theme playing)
(man yawning)
(groans)
Dr. Chandler.
Oh, I guess I'm a little tired.
Ms. Rucker is that the
x-ray on the Finley boy?
It'll keep.
Why don't you go
home and get some rest.
You've been up all night.
No.
This is supposed to be
your day off, remember?
And you're going to get
some sleep if I have to...
burn the office
down to get you out.
Now, I told Mrs.
Markel I'd look in at 5,
and then there's Ms. Vaughn.
You know perfectly well
Dr. Willis can cover for you.
(sighs)
I don't know why
I put up with you.
(rings)
Dr. Chandler's office.
MASON: May I speak
to the doctor, please?
I'm sorry, Doctor isn't in.
Can I help you?
This is Ms. Rucker, his nurse.
My name is Perry Mason.
I'm the attorney
for Arlene Dowling.
She told me I could always
reach her through Dr. Chandler.
I think I may have
a lead to her trailer.
Oh?
W-where is it?
Tell her to meet me
at the Ideal Trailer Mart
on Sepulveda at 10:00.
I can depend on you to
give her the message?
Well, I can't promise
you that, Mr. Mason.
I'll do the best I can.
Thank you.
( ominous theme playing)
Ain't she a beaut?
Nice and clean.
SALESMAN: Yeah, you don't
find 'em like this very often.
How long has it been on the lot?
SALESMAN: Just since last night.
Fellow brought it
in on consignment.
He's asking 2,500,
but I figure he'll
shade it a little
if you're ready to talk turkey.
This is it.
Now, there's a little lady
that knows her own mind.
I think I'd better
advise you, Mr. Hartsel,
this trailer is stolen property.
What?
Belongs to Ms. Dowling here.
Look, mister, I don't
know what you're up to,
but this fella brought
her in yesterday.
And I got his certificate
of registration to...
Look.
Howard Pimm. Yeah.
427 Encino Avenue,
State 9-1499.
That's right.
This certificate is forged.
We'll see about that!
Oh, you go on ahead.
I'll be right with you.
OPERATOR: I'm sorry, sir,
but there is no
state-9 exchange.
Well, have you got a listing
for a Howard Pimm on Encino?
There's a Walter
Pimm on Ventura.
Never mind.
Well?
Perhaps this will help.
Where did you get this
certificate of ownership?
Anything wrong with it?
Well, I thought there
was nothing wrong
with that Pimm feller's.
We better call the police.
There's no need for that.
How much are you
asking for the trailer?
Well, he said he wanted 2,500,
but, uh...
Just a moment, Arlene.
That trailer legally
belongs to you.
Then I can always
get my money back.
Is that correct?
Yeah.
I'd like to take it with me now.
You'll find my car out in front.
Blue convertible.
Need a special hitch?
There's one in the trunk.
You'll need lights too.
You'll find those
next to the hitch.
Looks like you
thought of everything.
I like to think so.
You realize, of course,
you're ignoring my advice.
Yes.
In which case, I must conclude
you have no further
use for my services.
Oddly enough, I've come
to the same conclusion.
Uh, would you mind
terribly if I send the $1,500
around to you this afternoon?
Not at all.
Anytime you want
a trailer found...
just give me a ring.
Well, you gotta
hand it to Mason.
He delivered, all right.
And now you owe him $1,500.
Seems like an awful lot of money
for a couple of hours' work.
But, as the fella
says, a deal's a deal.
And we agreed
that the main thing
was to get the trailer back.
I hate to ask you for the
money, Uncle George.
Oh, that's all right, honey.
Excuse me a minute.
I'll be right back.
(horn honks)
There's some candy
on the radio there.
No, thanks.
(birds chirping)
GEORGE: Here it is!
Well, this ought to
take care of Mr. Mason.
May I ask you a
personal question?
Why I don't keep my
money in the bank?
After the experience
that your father and I had
with the Mercantile Security?
No, thank you.
I'll stick to my own system.
I won't forget this,
Uncle George.
I'm keeping track
of every penny.
Ah, that's all right, honey.
Oh, Arlene.
You won't say a word
to your dad about this.
All right.
That's the girl.
And we let it come
as a big surprise
at the end, huh?
(door opens and closes)
I wasn't long, was I?
Just long enough for
me to finish my cigarette.
Look, Arlene, I...
(sighs)
I hope you don't mind
my telling you this.
I... Oh, I-I know how you
feel about George Ballard.
Wh-what is it, Ralph?
Well, I... I'd hate for
you to be disappointed.
But if I were you, I
wouldn't trust him too far.
(engine starts)
( tense theme playing)
GERTIE: Perry Mason's office.
One moment, I'll connect
you with Mr. Jackson.
Perry Mason's office.
I'm sorry, his line is busy.
Will you wait?
Thank you.
Oh, Ms. Street?
Uh, this just came
for Mr. Mason.
Well, just a minute.
I didn't sign for it.
Oh.
Don't know what
I was thinking of.
Take care of it,
will you, Gertie?
Certainly.
Perry?
MASON: Just a moment, Della.
"Thanks for everything.
I hope the enclosed
is satisfactory."
One thousand five hundred.
Very nice.
I wonder where
she has them made.
Get Paul.
Tell him I want
the complete dope
on the Mercantile
Security theft.
Let him start with the boy
who drove the armored truck.
I thought Ms. Dowling
gave you your walking papers.
I know, I know.
Tell Paul to step on it.
Right.
( dramatic theme playing)
( ominous theme playing)
(horn honks)
They'll be right out, Charlie.
They're just finishin' up.
Boy, they think of
everything, don't they?
Oh, a pal of mine
works for you people.
Maybe you know him.
Name's Bill Emory.
Guess you haven't seen
Emory in quite a while.
No, I haven't. Why?
He was fired.
No kiddin'. What happened?
Better ask him.
Well, gee, I...
I haven't heard
from Bill in a year.
Have you got any idea
where I could reach him?
Last I heard, he was living
in the Layton apartments
in North Hollywood.
If he ain't there, you might
try the corner poolroom.
Thanks a lot.
I can't tell you how I
appreciate this, fella.
Oh!
If you happen to see him first,
would you tell him that
Paul Drake's looking for him?
Thanks.
( ominous theme playing)
Bill Emory around?
(billiard balls clack)
Thank you.
Nice shot.
Lookin' for a game?
No, you're too good.
You Bill Emory?
Who are you?
Think you could spare
me a few minutes?
Mister, I could spare
you a few years.
What's on your mind?
You used to work for the
Mercantile Security Bank.
Is that what you came
out here to talk about?
Mm-hmm.
Huh, take it easy.
Take it easy?
What do you think I've been
doing for the past ten months?
Don't this look like it?
You know, hustling suckers
is the greatest
career in the world.
Some days, I make
as much as 5, 6 bucks.
Maybe I could help you.
Can you help a guy get a
job that's been blacklisted?
Maybe.
Are you from the
Mercantile Security?
No.
The insurance company?
Now, let's say at the
moment I'm working for myself.
Now, tell me something.
Do you want to go on like this?
It seems to me your only chance
is to help find the
parties responsible.
(chuckling): Are you kiddin'?
Everybody knows
it's Frank Dowling.
He's got the money
all nicely tucked away.
It'll be a nice annuity
when he comes out.
His daughter
claims he's innocent.
What did you expect?
Would you tell me
what happened that day?
Okay.
I've told it 20
times to the police.
I guess another time can't hurt.
It was a Tuesday morning.
May 3rd, to be exact.
It was about, uh, 7:30 when
the dispatcher called me
to take a shipment over
to the Santa Ana branch.
How many men
work on these trucks?
Just the driver.
Isn't that a little dangerous?
Not on these new
babies. That's all you need.
There's a two-way radio
right next to the driver.
But suppose you
ran into trouble,
can't use the radio.
Look, Mr. Mason,
you have to see
one of these trucks
in order to appreciate it.
They thought of everything.
Even if the mob
did grab the driver,
it wouldn't do 'em any good.
You gotta have a key.
And the driver doesn't have one.
Are you kiddin'?
There are only two
keys in the main office.
The inspector has one,
and the guy who makes up
the cash shipment has the other.
That means that
Frank Dowling and...
And George Ballard.
They blacklisted him too.
Nice people, huh?
Any idea where I
can locate Ballard?
Well, he lives
somewhere in Burbank.
You'll probably
find it in the book.
I wanted to call
the office anyway.
You've been a great help.
Uh, would you
be offended if I...
No, thanks, Mr. Mason.
I'll make out.
Just as long as there are guys
who think they know
how to shoot pool.
Good luck.
(coins clang in phone)
Gertie, let me speak
to Della, please.
Hello, Della?
What's new?
I'm glad you asked.
Guess what just arrived
for you by registered mail.
Another $1,500 from
your former client,
Ms. Arlene Dowling.
Want me to read the note?
Please.
"Dear Mr. Mason:
"Sorry if I seemed capricious,
but the enclosed $1,500
should make up for it."
It's signed, "Arlene Dowling."
That doesn't make sense.
Why would she send
me another $1,500?
I don't know.
Oh, incidentally,
there's a process server
been looking for you.
He's been hanging
around all afternoon.
He has a subpoena duces tecum.
And he wants me to appear before
the grand jury tomorrow morning
with all monies I collected
from Arlene Dowling.
Where did you buy
your crystal ball?
Listen, Della.
If anyone calls, you
haven't heard from me.
I'm going over to Burbank
to see a man named Ballard.
I'll check with you later.
( suspenseful theme playing)
(doorbell buzzes)
MAN (over radio): It's been
a tight and exciting race
so far this season.
Sandy, down, down.
Come in, Mr. Mason.
Well, I suppose you're
surprised that I know who you are.
Well, to tell the truth, I saw
your picture in the paper.
Sandy, let Mr. Mason alone.
Sit down? Thank you.
So if someone should tap
you on the shoulder and ask,
you tell him from me:
the Beavers are a cinch
to do it again this year.
Till tomorrow night, same time,
this is your old buddy Red
Walsh sayin'...good night.
Ever listen to him?
He's on every night at 8.
Sure knows his sports.
You ought to give
him a listen sometime.
I will.
Well, what can I do for you?
I'm looking into the Mercantile
Security swindle, Mr. Ballard.
(laughs)
If that ain't the
darnedest thing.
That happened
almost ten months ago,
and they haven't
forgotten it yet.
Why don't they give it up?
I can think of almost 400,000
reasons why they shouldn't.
Well, it's high time
somebody like you got into it.
I understand that
you and Frank Dowling
made up that shipment together.
Now, you've got to
understand, Mr. Mason,
Frank and me worked
side by side for years.
We trusted each other.
That's perfectly natural.
Perfectly.
Well, to tell you the truth,
on this particular day,
we didn't exactly
follow routine.
I'd made a bet on a horse,
and I was checking the
results in the locker room.
Frank made up the shipment.
I was gone... well,
uh, not over a minute.
So then, when you
sealed that package,
you couldn't swear
the money was inside.
Now, look, Mr. Mason.
You can't work 12
years alongside of a man
and not know what
makes him tick.
Frank Dowling was just
as honest as they come.
He didn't take that money.
Do you have any idea who did?
No.
But I'll tell you one thing.
If you can find a guy with
a $1,000 bill stashed away
with a serial number 00581,
he's your boy.
Oh?
There's a record of
the serial numbers?
There's a record of
at least one big bill.
I told that to the cops,
right after the robbery.
(chuckles)
It's remarkable that
you remember it.
Well,
wouldn't you?
If it meant 2,500
smackers in your pocket?
(laughs)
Maybe you think I'm crazy,
but the day of the robbery
I got this tip that I
was telling you about.
It was in the fifth race,
and the number of
the horse was eight.
And, naturally, you wanted
your horse to come in first.
And believe it or not,
right on top of the stack
was this $1,000 bill with
the serial number 00581.
I figured it was an omen.
How'd you do?
(chuckles)
He won.
And I had 100
smackers on his nose.
Heh.
I guess you must
think that I'm nuts,
making a bet like that,
but, you see, I
haven't any family and,
well, gambling is my only vice.
(chuckles): Well,
That is, uh,
gambling and a, heh,
little nip once in a while.
Oh, uh, would you like
to have a little... heh?
Love to.
All right.
I'll be back in just a minute.
Sandy, now, don't
you bother Mr. Mason.
I'll be in as soon as I
can find a corkscrew.
Take your time.
What did you say the
number on that bill was?
00581.
( ominous theme playing)
Well...
Here's looking at you.
Thank you.
( mysterious theme playing)
How do you like those
potatoes, sergeant?
You see what I did?
Yeah. Why do you suppose
Ballard signaled her?
That wasn't Ballard.
He's a short, little duck.
(engine starts)
Wish we got a peek
at that license plate.
Our orders were to
stick with Ms. Dowling.
Yeah...
Didn't that guy
look kind of familiar?
Huh?
That fella that just left.
I know I've seen him somewhere.
You notice the way
he carried himself?
He looked like a guy who
could take care of himself.
Could it have been Perry Mason?
Mason?
Yeah.
This dame's his client.
That's who it was. Mason.
Neil, what do you suppose
that business with the
window shade meant?
I don't know,
but I don't like it.
Come on. Let's go in.
( suspenseful theme playing)
(doorbell buzzes)
(knocking)
Mr. Ballard?
Mr. Ballard?
(dog whimpering)
Maybe the girl's still around.
You better call Homicide.
Right.
Police headquarters, please.
( tense theme playing)
You understand, of course,
that you've been
summoned before this body
not as an attorney,
but as an ordinary citizen
who has witnessed a murder.
I hate to disagree
with you, Mr. Burger,
but I did not
witness any murder.
You'd have this jury
believe that you know nothing
of the manner of
George Ballard's death?
That's exactly what
I'd have them believe.
BURGER: I see.
Does the name Arlene
Dowling mean anything to you?
It does.
Are you aware that
she has disappeared?
I read of her disappearance
in this morning's paper.
Oh, come now, Mr. Mason.
As Ms. Dowling's attorney...
I am not Ms. Dowling's attorney.
BURGER: She retained
you just Monday.
And discharged
me the following day.
Why?
Obviously, she was dissatisfied.
BURGER: But she paid you a fee.
I've credited Ms. Dowling's
account with $1,500.
The money to which I refer
came in yesterday's mail.
Two bills and a
note that I assume
was in Ms.
Dowling's handwriting.
Hm. You assume?
Yes, I'm not familiar
with her handwriting.
You were served a subpoena
duces tecum last night.
Is that correct? It is.
You were ordered
to bring with you
all monies in your
possession from Ms. Dowling.
Have you those bills with you?
(rustling)
Something wrong, Mr. Burger?
Never mind.
Let's get back to the matter
of George Ballard's death.
Is it not true
that a few moments
before you left his home,
you went to the window
and signaled Ms. Dowling
by lowering and
raising the shade?
No, it is not true.
Maybe I should remind
you, you're under oath.
I'm an attorney, Mr. Burger.
I need no such reminder.
Will the sergeant at arms
call Detective Myers, please?
You're excused, Mr. Mason.
Thank you.
BURGER: You were
assigned to follow Ms. Dowling?
That's right, sir.
Did you follow her last night?
Yes, sir. She took a
cab to 1427 Glendon.
That's where Mr. Ballard lives.
BURGER: Did she go in?
MYERS: Not right away.
There was a man
standing by the window.
He pulled the shade,
then raised it again.
A couple of seconds later,
he came out and drove away.
What did Ms. Dowling do then?
She went in the back way.
Did you recognize the man
who signaled to Ms. Dowling?
Yes, sir.
What was his name?
Perry Mason.
Are you sure of that?
Absolutely. I've known
Mr. Mason for years.
Thank you.
Ladies and
gentlemen of the jury,
you've just heard the
testimony of Detective Myers.
It completely
contradicts the testimony
of the previous witness.
I therefore ask you to bring
an indictment for perjury
against Perry Mason.
( dramatic theme plays)
( suspenseful theme playing)
I don't like it, Perry.
No, I'm afraid the photographer
didn't capture the real me.
Now what have you
got up your sleeve?
Just a hunch.
But I'm convinced I
was right about Dowling.
He certainly didn't kill Ballard
from his cell in San Quentin.
His daughter could.
She was on the scene.
On the other hand,
it might be a frame.
Mm-mm.
The police claim only
a few minutes elapsed
between the time
you left Ballard's house
and Arlene entered.
Then, obviously, one of
us must have killed him.
(chuckles)
And just who do you think
Mr. Burger is rooting for?
Me?
I guess I'll have to prove
I didn't signal Arlene.
Get Lieutenant
Tragg on the phone.
I'll show him the real reason
I was fooling around
with that window shade.
Better be good, Mason.
If Burger knows I let you
in, he'll have my scalp.
What's this all about?
Burger claimed I signaled
Arlene Dowling from here.
Well, didn't you? No!
Well, why'd you horse
around with that shade?
Now, don't tell me you
were just being playful.
I had some evidence I
wanted to conceal for a while.
I give you my word, Tragg.
You know what that's worth.
Now, don't start
parking yourself.
I want to lock up. Come on.
Come on.
(phone ringing)
Dr. Chandler's office.
This is Perry Mason. May
I speak to Dr. Chandler?
(whispers): Perry Mason.
I'm sorry, he isn't in.
Ms. Rucker? Yes.
Ms. Rucker, I must get in
touch with Arlene Dowling.
I'm afraid I can't help you.
It's very important.
I'm sorry, there's
nothing I can do.
Did she hang up? Yes.
Well, where do we go from here?
We can't make any plans
till we figure out what
Burger's gonna do.
If I know my esteemed colleague,
he'll bypass the grand jury
and file a complaint
against Arlene
for the murder of Ballard.
Then he'll ask for a
preliminary hearing
and call me as a witness
for the prosecution.
I've gotta find that girl.
(rhythmic knocking on door)
It's Paul.
Hello, beautiful.
Well, where do the
relatives of the deceased sit?
Front row, center.
You didn't find her.
No, but I found something else.
Kid who swiped the trailer.
Let me see.
Hey, this is the messenger.
This is the one that
delivered the envelope
with the first $1,500.
You're positive?
Positive.
MASON: Nice work, Paul.
Let's have the details.
His name's Tom Sackett.
He used to live at the
Wainwright apartments.
Used to?
Checked out a
couple of nights ago
and grabbed a
bus for Mexico City.
I figure he was scared
off by Ballard's murder.
That's only a guess, mind you.
Makes sense. I wish
Arlene were here.
Maybe she'd know more about him.
DELLA: How about Bill Emory?
Good idea. Get him up here.
Probably reach
him in that poolroom.
What do you want me to do?
(sighs)
Keep looking for Arlene Dowling.
Okay, Perry.
MAN (over radio): And the police
are engaged in one of the biggest
manhunts in the
history of California.
But the quarry is a female.
Redheaded, blue-eyed,
Arlene Dowling,
who is accused of
murdering Frank Ballard.
Ms. Dowling has been
reported as far north as Portland.
But local authorities
discount these stories,
convinced that she is
still somewhere in the city.
It was in connection
with this same case
that Perry Mason,
noted defense attorney,
was indicted by the grand jury.
District attorney
Hamilton Burger,
who has taken personal
charge, said he...
(clicks radio off)
( romantic theme playing)
Oh, I was so afraid
you wouldn't come.
I had to see you
once more before I left.
I'm going to Canada.
You can't do that.
Arlene, running away would
be the worst possible thing to do.
I didn't kill Ballard.
Of course you didn't.
But that's why
you've got to stay.
Running away would
be an admission of guilt.
Oh, I've ruined everything.
I only wanted to help my father.
Maybe you'd better see Mason.
Oh, no.
Now, why not?
You're the only one I can trust.
Big help I've been.
Oh, if it weren't for you
the police would've
caught me long ago.
Ralph, what am I going to do?
Darling, will you do
me a favor? What?
Talk to Mason.
All right.
What do you say, Bill?
Do you recognize him?
His name is Sackett.
Thomas Sackett.
I'm not sure.
I think I've seen him
around somewhere,
but it was some time ago.
Was it with Frank Dowling?
George Ballard?
Hey, wait a minute.
Yeah, that's it.
It was in the doc's office.
Dr. Chandler's office?
Are you a patient of his?
We all were. Ballard, Dowling,
everybody who worked
for the Mercantile Security.
He was the doc for the bank.
Would you be willing to
swear you saw Sackett
in Chandler's office? Sure.
There's a preliminary
hearing tomorrow morning.
I want you there.
(intercom buzzes)
Excuse me.
What is it, Della?
Perry, will you talk
to Ms. Dowling?
You know I will. Put her on.
Mr. Mason, this
is Arlene Dowling.
You realize I've been looking
all over creation for you?
Would you consider
representing me again?
Why, your trailer missing?
I guess I deserved that.
Do you know Maple and
Sunset in Beverly Hills?
Yes.
I'll pick you up there
on the northwest
corner in one hour.
I almost gave up hope
of ever seeing you again.
You don't know
how close you came.
I have a ticket for
Montreal in here.
Did you murder George Ballard?
Did you?
Why did you go to see
Ballard on Monday night?
I was in trouble.
Remember when I met
you at the trailer mart?
How could I ever forget?
Well, when I
went into the trailer
to look for my
diary, it was gone.
Instead, I found $18,000
in the compartment.
That seems like a fair exchange.
I knew it belonged to the bank.
And then I realized why
my trailer was stolen.
It was to plant the money
there so the police could find it.
Is there anything in your
diary that could incriminate you?
Suppose there is.
If there is, whoever
masterminded this little plot
is gonna make sure it falls
right into Burger's hands.
Of all people, why did you
pick Ballard as a confidant?
He was helping me.
You mean he was supplying
you with all that money?
Where did he get it?
It was his life savings.
And he was giving it to you?
He was lending it to
me for a good cause.
He felt that my
father was innocent.
Does your father know you
were taking money from Ballard?
No, I didn't tell him. He
would have been angry.
He thought that Ballard
helped convict him.
Do you think he did?
Aren't you being ridiculous?
It would have given you
a logical motive to kill him.
Ballard was dead
when I walked in.
Right after you left.
That what you plan to
tell the district attorney?
Listen, Arlene.
Burger's out to get me.
He may offer to let you
plead guilty to manslaughter
instead of murder
if you say that...
(siren wailing)
We've got company.
Oh, you mustn't stop.
I'm sorry. I don't
have any choice.
You told them you
were meeting me.
You've got to trust me.
No matter what happens,
you've got to trust me.
Understand?
(wailing continues)
(wailing stops)
Where's the fire, Mr. Mason?
What's the idea, Tragg?
The idea is perfectly simple.
This little lady's
wanted for murder.
I want to make sure she
shows for the hearing tomorrow.
All right, Ms. Dowling.
( ominous theme playing)
(engine starts)
BURGER: And is
it not true, officer,
that on entering the premises
at 1427 Glendon Avenue,
you found the body of the
murdered man, George Ballard?
Yes, Sergeant Neil
was with me at the time.
How long did you wait outside
with Neil before you entered?
A couple of minutes.
Could you place the
time more exactly for me?
I'd say a few minutes after 9.
That's as close as I can come.
Did you see someone
at the window?
Yes, sir. Perry Mason.
(chattering)
You may cross-examine.
Officer Myers, you're positive
you saw me at the window
shortly before you
entered Mr. Ballard's home?
Absolutely.
You recognized me immediately?
Yes.
You said to
Sergeant Neil, quote:
"That's Perry Mason
at the window"?
Well, no, I mentioned
you looked familiar,
and Neil said, "Could
it have been Mason?"
What was your reaction to that?
Well, after he said it,
I realized it was you.
But you didn't arrive
at that conclusion
until after you discussed
it with your superior?
No, sir.
No further questions.
Your Honor, I think
I can now explain
the circumstances surrounding
the death of George Ballard
if the court will
allow me the liberty.
BURGER: I object, Your Honor.
The state has gone to
a great deal of trouble
to prepare its case.
There's no need for
Mr. Mason to explain anything.
My offer was made in
the interest of expediency.
BURGER: Was it expediency
or self-interest, Mr. Mason?
No doubt you're aware
I intend to call you
as a witness for the state.
If it please the court, I'd
like to present my case
without any further
help from Mr. Mason.
Mr. Burger, call
your next witness.
Thank you, Your Honor.
I call Dr. Ralph Chandler.
Why did they call him?
Raise your right hand.
Do you promise the
testimony you're about to give
is the truth, the whole truth
and nothing but the truth?
I do. Be seated.
BURGER: Would you be good enough
to give us your full name
and address, please?
Dr. Ralph Chandler, 723
Blue Bell Avenue, Santa Ana.
How long have you known
the defendant, Arlene Dowling?
Well, eight or nine years.
During these
eight or nine years,
did you become familiar
with her handwriting?
Yes.
I'm gonna show you
something, doctor.
I want to remind you
that you're under oath.
This purports to be the
diary of Arlene Dowling.
I want you to
look at it carefully
and tell us if, in your
opinion, it is her handwriting.
Yes.
I want you to look specifically
at the items of June
7th and June 9th.
You'll notice that at that time,
Ms. Dowling suspected
that George Ballard,
the murdered man,
might be implicated
in the theft.
Objection. If Your Honor please,
since the witness has testified
that the document is in
my client's handwriting,
I'm entitled to
look at it myself.
For all we know, certain
entries may be forged.
The witness will turn the
diary over to Mr. Mason.
All right, doctor,
that will be all.
I may want to re-call you
later. Thank you, doctor.
Just a moment. I
wish to cross-examine.
He hasn't testified to anything
you can cross-examine him on,
except the handwriting
of the defendant.
He stated he was a doctor.
I'd like to know
his qualifications.
Dr. Chandler, I've been
given to understand
that you are the physician for
the Mercantile Security Bank.
Is Frank Dowling
one of your patients?
CHANDLER: Yes, he was.
What about George
Ballard and Bill Emory?
I treated them all.
Does the name Thomas
Sackett mean anything to you?
He was a patient of mine too.
Did you give Sackett
a diathermy treatment
on Wednesday, April 4th,
and again on
Wednesday, April 11th?
My nurse may have.
Wednesday is my day off.
Thank you, doctor. That's all.
JUDGE: Call your next witness.
If the court please, this
is an unusual situation.
I want to call the
attorney for the defense.
I realize this is
highly irregular.
Mr. Mason has already
appeared before the grand jury.
And although I hate to say so,
it's possible he may
be an accessory.
I understand, Mr. Burger.
Mr. Mason, will
you take the stand?
Of course, you're
entitled to refuse to answer
any questions which may
tend to incriminate you.
(sarcastically): Thanks.
Raise your right hand.
Do you promise the
testimony you're about to give
is the truth, the whole truth
and nothing but the truth?
I do.
Be seated.
I'll get right to the
point, Mr. Mason.
Are you aware that the
police discovered $18,000
in your client's trailer?
I am now.
Where do you think
the money came from?
Surely you know, Mr. Burger,
that what I think isn't
admissible as evidence.
All right, Mr. Mason.
Let's stick to facts within
your own knowledge.
Did you visit George
Ballard at his home
on the evening of June 16th?
Yes, I did.
And did you lower and then
raise the shade in his living room?
Yes.
Well, you denied that
in front of the grand jury.
MASON: I beg your pardon.
If you'll refer to the
grand jury record,
you'll find that you asked me
if I lowered and
raised the shade
as a signal to the defendant.
Well, what possible explanation
could there be
for such behavior?
Well, in my
possession at that time
were two large bills
which had been given me.
On one of them, I found
the serial number 00581.
I felt those bills were
given to incriminate me,
so while Mr. Ballard was in
the kitchen pouring a drink,
I rolled them up in
the window shade.
And Ballard was
alive at that time?
Of course.
And since Arlene Dowling
entered immediately
after your departure...
MASON: Who said so?
Oh, come now, Mr. Mason.
Let's not waste time in evasion.
You now admit
that Detective Myers
saw you at the window.
I admit nothing of the kind.
He saw someone at the window
who answered my
general description,
but it most assuredly
was not me.
When I entered
Mr. Ballard's home,
he was listening
to a sportscaster.
Sportscaster by the
name of Red Walsh,
who is on the
air from 8 to 8:15.
Now, we listened to
the end of the sportscast,
talked about five
minutes, had our drink.
Then I left.
It could not possibly
have been later than 8:25.
So?
So Officer Myers placed the time
of seeing the man
at the window at 9:00,
over one half-hour later.
Do you mean to tell me...?
I mean to tell you the man
Officer Myers saw at the window
was Ballard's murderer.
If he was the murderer,
what was he doing
at the window shade?
He was removing the
money I had hidden there.
And I suppose you
know who the man was.
MASON: Yes.
The man largely responsible
for the Mercantile
Security robbery.
May I direct your
attention to Dr. Chandler?
Frank Dowling, the man
convicted of the Mercantile theft,
was one of
Dr. Chandler's patients.
Now, patients undergoing a
complete physical examination
would naturally disrobe.
It was a simple matter, then,
to remove from their
clothing keys and seals
and take impressions of them.
These impressions
were later turned over
to an expert forger
named Thomas Sackett,
who made copies.
I think you'll find
Mr. Sackett is in Mexico City.
Then you're saying Dr. Chandler
masterminded this theft.
You're jumping to
conclusions, Mr. Burger.
The very same argument I
used against Dr. Chandler
can also be used against
someone who works for him.
Someone he trusted
completely enough
to go everywhere with
him, including the bank.
I am referring, of course,
to Dr. Chandler's
nurse, Helen Rucker.
If Your Honor please,
this has nothing to do
with the present case.
Your Honor, it has everything
to do with the present case.
Helen Rucker and her
confederate, Thomas Sackett,
made up a dummy sack
filled with canceled checks
and sealed like the original.
They then turned it over
with the key for the truck
to the only man who could
have made the substitution safely.
The man who followed
me to Ballard's house
and killed him.
The man Officer Myers
saw at the window.
His name is Bill Emory.
He's in this courtroom.
I've pointed him
out to the bailiffs.
( suspenseful theme playing)
Look what just
arrived in the mail
from Bushwick Indemnity.
"Pay to the order
of Perry Mason 25...
Twenty-five thousand dollars."
Very nice.
Endorse this over
to Frank Dowling.
After all, Della, the
man's been in jail.
As far as we're concerned,
it's just another case.
My mother always told
me to turn the other cheek.
I'll take care of this when
we get back to the office.
I'm famished.
Amy.
Thank you, Amy.
Now, mademoiselle,
the rarest of delicacies
are yours for the asking.
Would you care to order?
Coffee, bacon and eggs.
Did you get all that, Pierre?
Are you buying, Mr. Moneybags?
Moneybags?
I heard about the
$25,000 reward.
Some people have all the luck.
Is that what you
call it, Mr. Burger?
Yes.
By the way, what made
you decide on Emory?
You.
Huh?
Obviously, you were tipped off
that I was meeting Arlene
at Sunset and Maple Drive.
Well, what if I was?
That information could only
have come from Bill Emory.
He was in my office when
Arlene telephoned me.
(Mason chuckling)
I see.
The indictment for perjury
against you has been quashed.
Thank you.
Under the circumstances,
the least I can do
is to buy your lunch.
All right, if you insist.
MASON: I do insist.
Amy.
One order of crow
for the gentleman.
He'll eat it here.
( noirish jazz theme playing)