Original subtitles

"In Newark, New Jersey."

"Is the mammoth building which houses the Office of Dependency Benefits."

"Otherwise known as the ODB."

"During the high tide of war."

"Over 8,000 civilian employees were required .."

"To handle the system of family allowances and allotments."

"Whereby a soldier contributes a part of his pay."

"Which in turn, is more than matched by a sum from our government."

"The vast sections of ODB files."

"Show that over 11 billion dollars have already been sent out to dependants."

"Billions are still being issued even though peace is here."

"Here are issued millions of checks every month."

"That go through a fabulous check-writing machine at the rate of 150 per minute."

"Another machine signs them."

"While still another puts them into envelopes and seals them."

"80 to the minute."

"All of which was conceived and put into operation to protect wives, children .."

"And helpless relatives from the spectre of want."

"After their breadwinners were enlisted into the fighting forces."

"Never in history."

"Was there such a gigantic river of gold accessible to greedy criminal elements?"

"It looked easy."

"And the scramble to dip greedy fingers into the stream was on."

"The ODB, always alert to such a danger, moved swiftly."

Colonel Martin, Army intelligence. Reporting, sir.

Glad to see you, Colonel. You don't mind being loaned to our section for a while?

Glad to be of service. - Sit down.

Thank you, sir.

Now here is the situation, Colonel.

There have been many cases of bigamy.

Unscrupulous women sometimes marrying several servicemen.

In order to obtain their allotments and family allowances.

Such things of course are personal tragedies to the men.

Also, the army is interested as these things inevitably tend to lower morale.

It's been bad enough up to now in spite of all our precautions.

But with thousands of men returning since V.E. day.

Someone has organised this thing into a major racket of huge proportions.

So far, we haven't been able to find the head of it.

But it must be stopped.

The army and these boys must be protected.

I used to be a newspaperman.

I wouldn't know how to solve marital problems like those.

Except throw the women in jail. - Well, we've done that.

But they represent only the fringe of a central organization ..

That must be found and broken up.

And that's where you come in.

Well, I understand sir that I can say yes or no to this assignment.

You see, I was looking forward to a leave.

You knew Fred Newmeyer, didn't you?

He was a pal of mine.

Only he transferred out of the outfit.

He later won himself a DFC.

Last month he came home on leave.

Looking forward to honeymoon with a girl he married before he joined the Army.

He used to talk about his bride a lot.

I've been meaning to look him up.

You'll find him in Arlington cemetery.

According to this report.

He was suffering from battle fatigue.

However, when he got home he found his wife ..

His bride.

Had married three other servicemen.

Of course, we caught up with her.

But not with the person or persons who put her up to it.

When do I start, sir?

Here is an allotment check from a bunch marked "Suspicious."

Have that put in the mail and follow it to the address of the lady on the coast.

You will be in charge of the Pacific coast.

But I will want to stay undercover though, sir.

I've arranged with The Tribune for you to have your old job back.

You will be writing a series of articles on this racket.

Thank you Colonel, and good luck.

Good afternoon. A table, Miss Keith?

No thank you. I'm waiting for someone.

Phil here tells me you had an exciting experience ..

Escaping from France after the occupation, Mrs Seymour.

Like many others.

But I'd much rather talk about my canteen.

Especially as we're running short of funds.

So that's why you invited me.

A build up for a contribution.

Nonsense, Holmes.

Why don't you admit you've been dying to meet Mrs Seymour for weeks?

Alright. I admit it. - Don't worry.

We know that when the President of the Pacific Trust invites anyone to lunch.

He's usually got something more than social amenities up his sleeve.

The question is gentlemen, how deep are your pockets?

Or must I give you a sales talk about the wonderful work that we're doing?

Oh, incidentally, Mrs Seymour.

My son was home on furlough.

He fell in love with a girl he met at your canteen.

Really? Well then, shall I put you down for ..

Say .. ten thousand?

Very good.

You must have given her my Bradstreet rating.

Oh, don't pick on Phil.

After all, he's one of our most generous contributors.

Put me down for ten.

Thank you, sir.

Lend me your pen, Phil.

Mrs Seymour, will you excuse me if I run along?

I've got a board meeting waiting. - Of course.

I must go too. It's been a pleasure meeting you.

You've been very kind. As a reward I shall put you on my list of sponsors.

Please do. Thank you. - Thank you.

Goodbye. - Goodbye.

Well, how did I do, Phil?

So remarkably well Sheila, that I'd like to make you one of my Vice Presidents.

Or preferably, my wife.

That's sweet of you, darling.

But there is a lot of work to do before I can even consider marriage.

What a fascinating woman.

Where did Philip meet her?

I think his sister ran across her down on the Riviera somewhere before the war.

Well I heard she was married to a Bavarian Prince at one time.

And wasn't her first husband an Oklahoma oil-man?

Yeah. I heard that one too.

Hiya, Alice. - Hello George.

Two, please. - This way, please.

A bottle of beer. For you?

Nothing for me.

Don't worry, it's all there.

Sure.

You're a smart girl.

Only you've been slipping lately.

Miranda says four husbands are enough for me.

You only got three.

The boss should read the casualty list.

It must have been that Enright kid. I read where his outfit hit a beachhead.

And we hit the jackpot.

He had ten thousand bucks insurance.

It's almost like taking in blood money, isn't it.

Hi, Shields.

Hello, soldier.

Hey, is this the cutie you wanted me to meet?

This is Miss Keith. - Boy oh boy.

I suppose Shields here is your regular, sugar?

No, just an old family friend.

Well, that makes it pally all around.

Waiter.

Bring me one of these will you.

Sweeten this, will you.

Pick them up.

You're my girlfriend tonight, huh?

Sorry soldier, I've got a date for a party.

The party is on me.

Come along you two.

Hey, what's the idea?

Beat it, soldier. This girl has got three husbands already.

Alright. Let's go.

Quite a lad. - Same old Pete.

You want this?

Thanks very much.

I'm a Federal Officer. - Don't mention it.

Hello Pete. Nice show. - Hello, Van.

You have a nose for news, haven't you. - Luckily, I still have a nose anyway.

This is Mrs Seymour. Sheila - Pete Martin.

How do you do. - How do you do.

You know I rather liked that meat-chopping business.

It's quite effective. - Well, you see I had to butt in.

The gun was pointed in your direction.

And do you expect me to believe that?

No.

What was it all about, Pete?

Well, I don't know yet. But I intend to follow it up.

From a safe distance of course.

Then perhaps I'll read about it in your paper?

That's the .. - Tribune. Evening edition.

Shall I deliver it?

No.

Look me up, Pete. - Yeah, I will.

I beg your pardon.

Did I miss anything exciting?

Nothing special. Same old routine.

Okay.

Mrs Garner, they taking care of you alright?

Everything is just fine, Mrs Seymour.

Good.

Now Louise, what are you doing here again today?

I bet you have a new beau. - I have.

Good hunting. - Thanks.

Sheila!

Sheila, my dear. You've been neglecting me of late.

Well it's your fault for introducing me to Philip.

I suppose so. You know, my brother has been raving about you.

I think he's going to ask you to marry him.

He has already. - No?

What did you say?

I told him that I wasn't marrying anybody at present.

Hi Sheila. When are you going to ask me to be a hostess at your canteen?

Consider yourself asked. I'll expect you on Thursday night.

Good afternoon Madame Gaston. Good afternoon, Madame.

I'll be with you in just a moment.

You got those papers ready I asked you for this morning?

Yes, here they are. I think they are all in order.

Thank you.

Tell Shellenback that I want a better discount for cash.

Otherwise we're switching our account.

Turn this over to my attorney for collection.

But Mrs Lennox is one of our biggest accounts.

And headaches.

She counts her nickels the same way she counts her wrinkles.

Sue her.

Shall I arrange for a massage for you later?

I'll have to let you know about that.

In the meantime, don't disturb me for anything until I ring.

A lot of work to do. - Yes, madam.

Hello, Whitey.

Hello Sheila. - Hiya, Deke.

Boys.

Take your feet down, Moranto.

Get me the case stuff out Of the files, Joe. - Sure.

Well Lefty, what's the report on the north-west territory?

No complaints, including insurance money.

Liquidated wedding gifts and various sundries.

The net for last month is $37,000.

Good. I'll go over the books later.

Deke.

How is Texas shaping up? - Ah, lady Sheila.

We are tilling a rich vineyard down there.

Thirty sweet maidens so far. Operating around the various camps.

All acquiring sheaves of husbands.

Here are the files.

But you've got to send me some mobsters.

Our girls are being hijacked.

By sinful native gorillas.

Why didn't you tell Whitey?

That I did.

My boys are already on the way.

Fernando.

What about this?

Shields and this girl were picked up an hour ago in Gene's Caf� by a Federal man.

Funny. I ain't heard anything about it.

You're hearing it now.

Those coppers can't do that.

I'm going to bail him right out.

No you won't.

It's probably an open and shut case against them anyway.

Besides, they were both stupid.

The girl for passing money across a restaurant table.

And the man for pulling a gun.

Let them ride.

You will but not me.

That girl is my best pigeon.

Don't you mean favorite pigeon?

Are you trying to accuse me ..? - Take it easy.

You know my rules.

Alright. So what?

Maybe this Queen can make you guys sit up and beg but not me.

I'm running this local district, see. Like I want.

What you want and what you've been framing ..

Ever since I let your petty larceny racket join up with me ..

Is to take over this syndicate.

You are through.

Now get out.

And .. Whitey.

I want you to look up a newspaperman called Pete Martin.

He was in at the fight at Gene's. A little too conveniently.

He may be a real reporter but I want the real low-down on him.

But lady.

I would suggest the most pressing point of business is ..

The final disposal of .. Moranto.

Sure.

He is liable to turn canary and start singing.

And tie a rope around his own neck?

You don't know Moranto.

His disposal has already been arranged.

Deacon.

You'd better double check with the boys.

I don't want any slip-ups.

Well, let's get down to business.

Are all your balance sheets in here?

Yeah. Here's mine. - Thanks, Lefty.

Hi, Gladys.

Spike, I thought you would never show up.

The boss has been trying to get you all over town.

Yeah? - At this phone number.

Well, Gladys. How do you think this town stacks up with Seattle?

Any place stacks up, Spike.

With you in the picture. - That's the baby.

You know I had to do some tall finagling to get you transferred down here.

Give a coke will you. - Yep.

Is that the friend you were telling me about? - Yeah.

You're going to meet him. He's a soft touch for any dame in trouble.

It would be a relief to have something softer than this job.

Gee boss, I'm sorry about Helen.

I know how much she meant to you.

I'll have both her and Shields out before tonight.

You meet me afterwards at my apartment at 7 o'clock.

Big things are cooking.

How do you mean?

I'm moving in to take over this show from the main squeeze, see.

And I mean the main squeeze.

The main squeeze?

Who is that, boss?

No names over the phone. I'll explain everything later.

You be there at seven.

Right.

Spike, I want you to meet Ann Farley.

A friend of yours? - Yeah.

In trouble.

Oh, that's too bad.

Look, we'll have to wait until tomorrow before we work something out.

I'm pretty busy right now. Got to run. - Wait, Spike.

Don't worry. He keeps his word.

Not bad.

No-good husband in jail. Sick mother back east.

Now there is a plaster on her wages.

You don't waste much time getting new recruits, do you.

We're partners, aren't we?

Take her round the canteens.

She'll get a chance to meet plenty of servicemen.

See you later.

Hello Greg. What luck?

We combed Shields' apartment. Not even a telephone number.

Hmm. He's smart. They are all smart.

One of these days they'll get too smart and then we'll move in.

What about the girl Did you locate her place?

Yeah. I got a tip from one of the clerks where she works.

A cheap layout over the hill.

The Keith girl rented it herself several weeks ago.

But according to the tenants.

A short dark man has been visiting every night or two.

That might be Shields. Got any description?

No, nothing definite.

Nothing in the apartment either.

Except the usual female stuff.

Are men staked out? - Yeah, at both places.

Have the phone company record any incoming calls.

Alright.

Couldn't pry a thing out of that Keith girl, Pete.

So, she doesn't know a thing about the pay-off man, eh?

The same old story. A blank wall. We've been running into it for months.

Well, don't worry about it.

We'll find a leak in it somewhere.

Oh, Agnew.

Do you know a short, dark man?

What am I, a quiz-kid, Pete?

Hello Moranto. - Hi, Sarge.

Who is it this time?

A girl by the name Helen Keith and her boyfriend, George Shields.

You got 'em here?

Sure. But they're Federal cases.

Federal cases or State. What difference does it make? I'm not proud.

I'd bail them all out.

I don't think they're here now.

Wait a minute. - Okay.

Hello? Yep, this is Martin.

Bail, eh? Wait a minute, Agnew.

Hold it a minute, Sergeant.

There is a fellow up at the station to bail out our two prisoners.

Name is Louie Moranto. Ever hear of him?

Yeah. He's the chief bail bondsman.

Got an office over on Pacific Street.

He's stuck his nose into several of these cases before.

Listen, Sergeant.

Stall that fellow for 5 minutes and then tell him that bail hasn't been set yet.

Tell him anything. I want to put a tail on him.

Did you ever find out who is behind this Moranto?

Who pays the bond premiums?

I tried to subpoena his books once, but he keeps them on himself.

Pete.

That's your short, dark man.

Get your hat. Let's go. - Greg.

You take over here. - Right.

Come on, step on it. I haven't got all day.

Do I put bail up for him or do I have to get him out myself?

Now take it easy, Louie.

The Captain said he'd call me back.

You didn't dial the captain. You called the outside.

You didn't see what I dialled. - I heard you.

You're pretty good.

Where did you learn to be a detective? - Where did you learn to be a Cop?

[ 2x gunshots! ]

A short, dark man, huh?

Thank you.

Nothing for me.

Alright. Spill it.

There is only one hitch.

This fellow Martin you told me to follow.

He was there when it happened.

You mean, he isn't a newspaperman?

That's just his front.

I picked him up at The Tribune office alright, but ..

I tailed him back to the ODB headquarters near the police station.

He could still be a newspaperman.

Have I ever steered you wrong?

No.

I'm beginning not to like the way he's around when my affairs are involved.

Maybe I'd better cultivate him.

It might be amusing.

It also might help our information file.

It might help his, too.

You are a fool if you go sticking your pretty neck out.

I'm never a fool.

And only geese stick their necks out.

Have it your own way, Sheila.

I have a feeling that that the ODB are beginning to breathe down our necks.

Why don't you quit this game?

Because we're doing very nicely.

And a hot breath on my neck is sometimes more stimulating than a cold shower.

How about your kid?

You can't always keep her stowed away in a private school.

She's almost grown up.

Sweet.

Cultured.

Just the way you always planned.

Considering her?

Oh stop it, Whitey?

Why do you think I took this last fling?

Probably for her.

It's quite possible that you feather her nest with grievance to the green-backs.

Suppose she found out about ..

Connie is never going to find out about it.

Never.

The only decent thought I ever had in my life was for her.

She is pretty too, isn't she.

Yes, she is pretty.

Maybe you're right.

Maybe I am pressing my luck a little too much.

You've never accused me of it before.

But it won't be for long.

Just until spring.

Connie graduates then.

Yeah.

In a lovely white dress of organdie.

With a huge bouquet of roses.

White roses.

With love and kisses from Whitey.

Oh, I guess you are right.

I think after it's all over, we ..

We'll take a long trip.

You and .. Connie?

Alright, Whitey.

The three off us.

In fact I think that silly child of mine would object if you didn't come with us.

Connie, come on.

I can't be rushed, can I. - You sure can't, baby.

Oh, it's too quiet here. Why don't we go to that gambling place I told you about?

Sure. Let's have a drink here first. - Okay.

Okay, what will you have? - I feel thirsty.

Give me a Cuba Libre.

At least she didn't see us.

I wish I hadn't seen her.

I never dreamed of anything like this.

Ah well.

I guess all kids play hooky once in a while.

She's just had one too many.

Here comes the fellow we've waited for.

I'm in. I accept. - Well, down the hatch.

Hey, what do you think I'm in, the Navy?

It's as though I were looking at myself twenty years ago.

It's just the way I started.

It's a wonder that snooty private school couldn't tip you off to what's going on.

Wait until I work that faculty over.

Get her away from that mob.

Bring her out to me in the car.

Hello Connie.

Whitey!

What are you doing here?

Oh, just having a drink, same as you.

Well, have one with us.

I think we've both had enough.

I'm taking you home.

Say, what's the big idea? - Yeah, what's the deal?

This girl is under age.

Well, you didn't have to tell them that.

Anyway, I was just having a little fun.

And I don't want to go home. - Come on.

How old are you?

I am in my twenties.

Early or late? That's my business.

Mum.

Nice work, Whitey.

Well.

Where do we go from here? - Home first.

Then we'll talk.

Well.

How is she?

Asleep.

I gave her some hot milk.

I just couldn't talk to her. She didn't make sense.

I've got to go to the canteen and I'm ..

Whitey, what am I going to do?

Steady, darling. You can't let yourself go to pieces now.

For heaven's sakes, don't start preaching.

You don't know what this means to me.

I still can't believe it.

Listen, Sheila.

Your kid is alright.

A little wild maybe, but once you have an understanding ..

Understanding? What's that got to do with it?

Don't you realize that my daughter is up in that room there drunk.

What can I .. - Sheila, you can't do this.

Don't try to soft-soap me. - Now stop it. Do you hear me?

Let go of me. Let go of me!

Pull yourself together.

I'm sorry, Whitey.

Thanks.

I'll be alright now. - Yeah.

You know, I'll stay here and see that nothing happens to her.

And you put in an appearance in the canteen anyway, huh?

Well, I .. I guess nothing very much could happen to her.

I locked her in.

Here is the key, Whitey.

I'll be back in an hour.

Sheila, we're out of hamburgers.

You also have five dozen eggs. Use them.

Plenty enough to eat, sailor?

Yes, eating fine.

Give him pies.

Hello, fellahs.

Marilyn, this is Miss Van Brook.

She's never been here before. Would you show her the ropes for me? - Oh, yes.

Here you are. Put this on.

Hello, soldier.

Mrs Payne, call Victors and order five gallons of ice cream.

Look, on my desk in the office is some free radio tickets.

Hand some out.

Mrs Seymour.

I just saw a soldier trying to kiss one of our girls.

And did he succeed? - No.

Then it wasn't one of our girls.

Pardon me. You're wanted on the telephone. - Oh.

Where is it? - I'll show you.

Okay. So long, fellahs. I'll see you later.

You're wanted, but not on the telephone.

Are you looking for trouble?

Well?

Well, if it isn't the nutcracker.

Not looking for trouble here, I hope? - Oh no, Mrs Seymour.

You remembered my name.

You are too modest.

You see I looked up your friend, Philip Van Brook.

He gave me the inside on you.

Perhaps I should get the inside on you?

All I know is the outside.

You are a newspaperman. - That's right.

One of my assignments was to get the dope for a story on canteens.

Starting on yours first.

The most popular place in town.

I suppose I should be very flattered.

No-one could flatter you, Mrs Seymour.

Well, they look like mother used to make 'em.

Join me?

Not tonight.

Tomorrow?

Yes, I really would like to talk to you.

About my canteen.

Lunch then?

Shall I phone you?

I'll call you. Tribune? - Right.

Excuse me now. I've got a lot of work to do.

Can I have some coffee with my sugar?

You can have some but not with this sweetie. - Okay.

Not the type?

No. He's a corn hopper.

Don't be so particular.

They are the easy marks.

Oh, hello fellows.

Gee, sorry I was so long getting round to you. It's been pandemonium tonight.

Don't let it worry you. We understand. - Gee, we miss having you around.

Thanks.

Hey, sister.

Who is the Empress holding court over there?

If you don't know, three guesses.

Let's play pinochle. I hate brain games.

I heard someone say she ran this dump.

Excuse me.

Excuse me.

Hello, Edna.

I'm Mrs Seymour. Are you having a good time?

Why sure.

But aren't you Edna Morse?

Why, I'm afraid you have me mistaken for somebody else my dear.

Sorry.

Okay.

Excuse my brainstorm.

Well ..

See you later, fellahs.

Hello, Spike?

Say, have I got something to hand you.

I'm down at the canteen. Listen.

Did you ever hear of a Mrs Sheila Seymour?

Oh, sure.

The society dame.

The big cheese at the canteen.

Yeah. She's a big cheese alright.

Listen. I know her.

No, I'm not crazy.

I'm coming out to your place right away.

Nix, nix. It's too dangerous.

Somebody put the blast on Louie Moranto this afternoon.

I just barged into his apartment a while ago. Almost got picked up by coppers.

I'll come down there.

Meet me outside.

Well, okay .. make it snappy.

How is Connie?

Okay. Haven't heard a sound.

Well, you were right about Pete Martin.

He had one of the girls picked up at the canteen.

One of ours?

I think so but you'd better check.

What are you going to do about Martin?

Have lunch with him tomorrow.

Oh, and by the way.

I want you to look up a girl.

A girl called Gladys Smith. I knew her years ago.

You don't give me very much to go on. But I'll put some of the boys to work.

Well.

Do you think you'll need me anymore? - Not tonight, Whitey.

Be here first thing in the morning.

We're taking Connie back to school.

What are you going to say to her?

I don't know yet.

She probably needs a bit of the hair of the dog that bit her, don't you think?

Maybe you're right, but ..

I'll handle her.

Let me have the key.

I'll have Sadie let her out.

Goodnight.

I'm sorry. I ..

Got a little rough.

That's alright.

You sure?

Sure.

Goodnight. - Night.

Good luck, Sheila.

I wonder who he is.

Maybe Santa Claus.

Well, now we've followed the dame here, what are we going to do?

She's the same girl alright.

But I've gotta make sure.

I'm going in, Spike.

I'd like to see Mrs Seymour.

But it is very late. She has retired.

Oh it will be alright. You see, I'm an old friend.

It's important.

But you'll have to telephone during the day and identify yourself.

So sorry.

Where is my sweet mother? - Right in there, Miss Connie.

Are the drinks in there too? - I wouldn't know, Miss.

They'd better be. Or I'm getting out of this jail.

Well?

It's her alright.

And she's got her brat with her. Her daughter.

What of it? It all smells the same.

Her daughter. You suppose she'll chum up with you?

You never can tell.

Perhaps someday I shall make a social call.

Well? Does the Court Martial start now?

When did you leave Marcliffe? How long have you been doing this sort of thing?

Why should you care?

You are asking questions.

I'll ask a few.

Why am I cooped up in stuffy old boarding school?

Why don't I live with you here?

Why am I locked into a room tonight when all I wanted was just a little fun.

Have you given me any?

All these schools, camps.

Off to see people I never even care about.

But you sit here having a good time.

Well, I want some too.

I'm tired of your preaching! Tired of being just a stupid mother's daughter.

I'm tired of you! - Shut up!

Oh baby.

Shush. Quiet.

I'm sorry.

I've done all the wrong things by you.

I wanted you to be so good and so fine.

You wouldn't have to do everything I had to do.

Oh, sure mum.

But I never see you.

Yes. That is where is where I was my most wrong.

Were you always locked up in some boarding school?

Not exactly.

Were you poor?

Terribly.

I never want you to go through what I did.

You always told me I never would.

So what are you worrying about? - Nothing.

Nothing. Just as long as I've got you here in my arms.

Look, darling.

Let's make a bargain.

You go back to school and finish it. It's only two months more.

And then we'll go away together.

Oh.

Whitey can go along too, if you like.

We'll go away somewhere very far.

Perhaps ..

Well, perhaps South America.

But until then.

You've got to be a good girl.

No more playing hooky.

No more .. - It's a deal, mum.

You know.

You're a good sport for not scolding me more.

Well .. how about a drink?

Okay.

Soda or water? - Just straight for me.

Straight for me.

I can't believe it.

Well, you wouldn't know it, but one of them was picked up there last night.

But that is awful.

They'll sure have to tighten the regulations.

You can do more than that if you really want to help expose this racket.

Oh, but I've told you. I want to do anything.

Then keep your eyes open.

And let me know immediately if you see anything out of line.

The publicity will fumigate and exterminate these dirty rats.

That's why I told you what I'm doing.

Why I'm writing my articles.

Well, that .. and because ..

You don't have to put it into words.

But I want to say that I appreciate your confidence.

After all, I ..

I may turn out to be your ..

"Ace in the hole".

Isn't that what they call it?

Let's say: "Ace reporter".

Okay.

Did Mr Whitmore call? - No.

There is a woman here to see you. The one that was here before.

You know my orders about strangers.

But I don't think she's a stranger.

That's enough, Sadie.

Hello, Gladys.

Hello Edna.

Sit down.

I thought you were going to give me the brush off again.

Well you sort-of took me by surprise the other night. You can hardly blame me.

No. I guess not.

You have climbed awful high, Edna.

Just lucky, I guess.

Who are you kidding?

You always wanted to go big time.

Even when we were kids together in that filthy slum.

You always said "I'm going to be a swell dame, someday".

I always said that I hated the poverty and the debt.

The hunger.

You probably did, too.

Sure I did.

Edna.

Remember how we used to split doughnuts we snitched from Flashman's delicatessen?

It was when we got ambitious and stole the shoes in Brown's department store ..

That we got committed.

You sure disappeared fast after we got released from that reform school.

I ..

I thought that I wasn't very popular in our block.

Also, I learned that stealing was a stupid way to get up in the world.

Yeah.

I heard you'd married some guy with a lot of dough.

I even heard you had a baby.

That's right.

Is your husband dead?

Africa.

Well, I didn't mean to get personal.

I just wanted to make a social call. - That's quite alright.

I've been very glad to have seen you.

Anything I can do for you? - Not especially.

Not unless you know of a good job.

Well .. I have a beauty shop now.

Perhaps I can fix you in? - Thanks, Edna.

Ah, Mrs Seymour.

You always were a pal.

I'll never forget how we used to share things as kids.

You know .. fifty-fifty.

Perhaps you could use this?

Fifty bucks.

Thanks.

That's quite an instalment on an old friendship.

But you haven't asked me to come back.

Still, maybe I'll see you around sometime.

Maybe you'd better leave me your address. Just in case I find a job.

Well, just suppose I phone you?

And remember, Edna.

Don't be worried about my mentioning that we are ..

A pair of Ex's.

No.

It might be embarrassing to both of us, mightn't, it.

Good luck.

Hello, Whitey?

I want you to get Gladys Smith.

Alright, if you insist on it. But ..

The reports are that she's one of the best agents that Moranto sent in.

She's got two husbands, hasn't she?

Turn her in.

She needs a long rest.

How did you get into this business?

You look like a lady of refinement.

Not making a pass, are you?

No, no.

You've got a couple of pretty fine husbands already.

Have I?

Or is it three?

You tell me.

My memory is slipping.

Oh come on. What is it you want to know?

You dragged me out of a sound sleep.

Sleep well, do you? - Yeah.

My conscience was removed a long time ago.

By two specialists dressed in copper's uniforms.

A question?

Who is the boss of the business?

Oh, so that's it.

Now let me see.

I did know at that.

Oh, I think it is a copper.

You see, his uniform protects him and ..

And when he makes the rounds .. - Shut up.

It won't be so funny later on.

Who turned me in?

My memory is slipping.

I've got to hand it to you. You sure can make them talk.

They are like Japs and Germans.

Rotten to the core and incurable.

There is something dead inside their brains.

They're into every petty larceny racket from here to New York.

However, I've checked with Washington on the two servicemen she married.

Unless she confesses, we must get depositions from them to get convictions.

I wonder who phoned the tip in on her.

Possibly a discarded boyfriend.

Maybe somebody in the syndicate crossed her up.

Good evening.

What's your rap?

Marriage trouble.

Bigamy?

Hmm.

Me too.

Only I wouldn't be here unless some rat had put the finger on me.

I thought a friend of mine would surely bail me out.

But I guess he's forgotten. - Wait.

Don't talk.

I've got a hunch there's an electric ear around here somewhere.

Those coppers wouldn't put us in the same cell.

Clever dopes, those Cops.

Who is your friend?

Do you know him?

Where is he? I've got to see him.

Oh no.

Did they .. bump him off?

What will I do now?

I'll never get out of here.

I was never very much, but he always took care of me.

And I know who did it.

I know. Louie told me.

Well, well, well.

It doesn't make sense.

Pete. The Keith girl committed suicide in her cell last night.

Also, the Dictaphone didn't work. Gladys was too wise.

That's the third rotten break for us this morning.

Third? What do you mean?

From Washington.

On the two husbands of Gladys Smith.

What do you know about that.

One of them killed in action on April 1st.

Yeah, and if you take a look at the calendar, you'll find out the joker.

She married the second G.I. on April the 3rd. Two days later.

I get it.

That clears her of the bigamy charge.

Naturally, she had no way of knowing about this.

She doesn't know anything about it yet.

The case is washed up against her.

What a break for that dame.

I suppose we'll have to turn her loose. - Yeah, I'm afraid so.

But when that happens.

I've a hunch she'll go looking for the person who turned her in to this office.

I'll put the best man we've got onto her trail.

And if it is someone inside the syndicate ..

It might be the lead we've been waiting for.

Sit down, fellahs.

Well, gather round. It's pay day.

I've been trying to get you at the house.

I went to the bank early. What's happened?

The Cops have turned Gladys Smith loose.

Why? - Couldn't find out.

That means the charge against her didn't stick. That's all.

There is one thing for sure. She's being shadowed. Pete Martin will see to that.

Yeah. This Martin is getting to be a headache.

Why don't we slip him an aspirin? - Oh no.

He may be poison alive. But sudden death?

TNT.

Anyway, we know who he is.

He doesn't know our tie-up? - Right.

What's more, I could wrap him round my little finger.

I'd feel much safer if he were wrapped in a shroud.

I think I can handle it, Deke.

Gladys Smith is something else again.

We've got to get her and get her quick. That goes for Spike Malone too.

She'll fly to him like a homing pigeon.

Well, just catch her on the wing.

Now.

We pay ourselves our fat dividends.

Business is booming.

Well?

Guess who gave me the double-O?

Alright, I'll bite.

The big cheese of Allotment Wives Incorporated.

My old social chum, Mrs Sheila Seymour.

You been having bad dreams in jail? - No. Moranto's girl told me herself.

I had the same cell with her. Give me a drink.

Moranto is bound to have given her the low-down at that.

The sap used to be crazy about her.

Yeah. She was crazy too.

She committed suicide. - What?

Yeah.

And now I'm going to tip the Cops off about that Mrs Seymour.

Hey, use your skull.

If you think I'll let that dame slip me a cold deck ..

You'd better have your own skull examined. - Yeah?

If you close your yap and think, you'll see a better way to put the slug on her.

And put us on the gravy train at the same time.

I'm listening, reluctantly. - Alright.

Alright. Suppose we knew that this Mrs Seymour dame was the number one boss.

Just knowing won't make her squeal.

And there is nothing to stop her from parking us in a cemetery ..

Beside Mr Moranto.

Yeah. I never thought of that.

Say.

What about that kid of hers?

What did you find out?

She goes to a swell girls' school: Marcliffe.

That is, when she ain't AWOL.

[ Door knocks ]

Who is it? - It's the landlord.

Just a minute.

I haven't got a landlord. I only got a landlady.

Get out the back way. It's your only chance.

I've been trying to locate you.

Where have you been? - Oh, my.

Simon Legree and little Eva.

Alright, forget it.

Don't be stupid, Whitey.

If you must know, I was out with Mr Peter Martin.

I see.

You'd better make that a good one. You'll need it.

Sounds ominous.

I just answered a call from the school.

Connie has disappeared.

Playing hooky again, huh?

This time she took her clothes.

I'll blast the roof off that school.

And the Dean says that several of the students have seen Connie ..

Hanging around the town drug-store with a blond woman.

Gladys Smith.

Possibly.

Long distance.

Drop everything.

Round up the boys. Tell them I want Connie and I want her quick.

And also.

I want Gladys Smith.

I want her all to myself. Tell the boys to bring her here to me.

There's $5,000 for the one who gets her.

And trouble for all of them if they don't.

Hello? Long distance?

I want to speak to Marcliffe. Ardmore 9-3-4-6.

Urgent.

"Why am I locked into a room tonight when all I want is just a little fun?"

"I'm tired of your preaching."

"And remember, Edna."

"Don't be worried about my mentioning that we are a pair of Ex's."

"I have a feeling that the ODB is beginning to breathe down our necks."

"I want a drink."

Who is this?

Any word?

It's been two weeks now.

Where is Whitey?

He is here. Now be calm, the lads will bring us good tidings.

"I don't want good tidings. I want Connie."

Look here, this is Whitey.

The boys are working day and night, Sheila. You got to have some patience.

Well we can't extend any more credit.

The books are closed.

There's something wrong. That's our secret code.

Get the boys. We've got to get over there fast.

Sorry to disturb your beauty sleep.

Edna.

Where is my daughter?

Oh, so you know?

Then that will save conversation.

Then start saving it.

How much?

Well, we figured fifty grand would be right to start with.

Yeah. To start with.

You see Edna, I found out it was you who turned me over to the police.

My old reform school pal.

You thought it was an easy way to get me out of circulation, didn't you.

You don't think I'm going to fall for any cheap shakedown, do you?

That isn't the half of it.

Now, Mrs Seymour. Don't get any idea that we kidnapped your girl.

No.

No, I was sure that she was delighted when she met you charming people.

Yes. As a matter of fact, she was.

After we gave her the low-down on her mama.

Past and present.

See, what we mean to say is ..

Your little angel is quite happy with us now.

But definitely.

We thought of having her work for our syndicate.

She has everything it takes.

Just like her mother.

Well.

I'll have to telephone for the money. - Nix on the phone.

I thought you wanted to hurry?

Not that much of a hurry.

We've got a meeting place picked out.

You bring the dough and we return the girl.

Alright.

I can give you ten grand on account.

You take me to Connie and I'll have someone bring the balance.

Where is the ten?

Right downstairs. - I'll get it.

Why wake the servants?

You don't need to worry about them.

They won't wake up for a long time.

Oh, I see.

Well, it's just in the living room.

Over the mantelpiece in a safe behind a picture.

Where is the combination?

There isn't any combination.

It's a key. - Uhuh.

I'll get it.

That's it.

Oh. You mind?

Keep her covered.

See, Mrs Seymour.

If we weren't so pressed for time, I wouldn't bother you about a key.

You know, Gladys.

I just think you're bluffing.

I don't think you've got Connie.

This is just a plain stick-up.

Oh yeah?

How would you like to hear her voice on the phone?

Yes.

Let me talk to her.

From the way I've painted you, I doubt if she'd ever speak to you again.

[ Gunshot! ]

[ Gunshot! ]

[ Gunshot! ]

Why, you dirty double-crosser.

I'll fix you for this.

Hello?

ODB?

Go to the St. Claire Apartments.

Ask for a "Mrs Baxter".

She's one of the allotment wives.

Here is another little tip.

Her mother is ..

Sheila? - Hello, Whitey.

Get rid of that.

Spike got away. With a slug in him.

Look up the St. Claire apartments. - Connie there? - That's right.

And if you ever pray, Deacon.

Pray for speed.

Alright, operator.

Any luck?

No. They couldn't trace the call.

But if they did, they'd find a corpse. That call was cut off by a shot.

Well, get going then. We can't afford to miss a trick.

The tip-off on the Smith woman was okay. Maybe this one is.

Let me go!

It's Connie.

I've got to get to her. - No.

Come in.

Whitey, do something. Do something! - Take it easy.

It's no use walking right into it.

We'll figure out something.

Somehow, I've got to use Pete Martin.

Yeah.

Now is your chance to really wrap him around your little finger.

Don't kick me when I'm down, Whitey.

Do the Cops know that Connie is your child?

Not unless she's told them.

She won't.

She won't let you down.

I've got to see Martin tomorrow.

He calls you every day, doesn't he.

He'll call tomorrow.

What time is it?

12:30.

What if he doesn't call? - We've still got to wait.

[ Telephone ]

Hello?

No, Gaston. I told you not to bother me. Do you what you want to do about it.

Walking up and down isn't going to help.

What do you want me to do, sit like a log?

[ Telephone ]

Hello?

Oh.

Oh, so it's you, Peter.

Luncheon?

Why yes, I'd love to.

At Gene's in half an hour?

Bye-bye.

Well, doctor?

The girl is suffering from shock.

Possibly as a result of the arrest.

Well, she's just a kid but that shouldn't paralyse her vocal chords.

We used to call a parallel condition such as hers "shell shock".

Now we use the term "psychosomatic".

The girl hasn't spoken since they brought her in.

She lies there without moving, staring glassy-eyed up at the ceiling.

Is she paralysed? - Oh no.

The doctor says it is psycho-hysteria.

It may be weeks before the psychiatrist can snap her out of it.

But where is she? At the police station?

No, she's over at ODB headquarters.

Thank you.

Tell me, Pete.

Aren't you one of their men?

I was going to tell you before we finished luncheon.

I'm in charge of the West coast.

Good enough.

What kind of a girl is she?

Well, she's different.

She's not like any of the others.

Now I've a hunch that this whole case is locked up in that child in my office.

Well then ..

Why don't you let me talk to her?

Mother her a little bit.

Perhaps I could succeed where cold science and police methods fail?

It might work.

At least you are the calmest, most reassuring woman I've known, Sheila.

Let's go. - Wait. I'll ..

I'll have to call my office and pick an appointment.

Excuse me a moment? - Of course.

I'll be right back.

Hello Whitey?

Now listen carefully.

Round up the boys.

Tell them to stand by outside the ODB office in half an hour.

I want to crash the place at exactly ..

2:40.

Oh, you're crazy, Sheila. You're walking straight into the Federal Pen.

I'd even blast down the door of the Federal Pen to save Connie.

Alright.

What will do with her?

Take her to my house.

Also, telephone Sadie to have the servants cleared out.

It�s a deal, Sheila.

But I still think it's hearts and flowers.

Do as I say.

Now don't forget.

2:40 to the second.

Alright boys. We've got a job.

Mrs Seymour, this is Mr Agnew.

How do you do. - Hello, Mrs Seymour.

I think she can help us with that girl.

She knows who I am.

I'd like to try it anyway.

Is she still out? - She's in here.

Pete.

There is a little job you will have to attend to.

Well, this is more important now. - The Smith woman is in the morgue.

They fished her out of the river with a bullet hole in her heart.

Shall I go in? - Yes. Yes, do.

She's just a baby, isn't she. - Yes.

I'm sure it will help a lot when she comes to if she sees someone like you.

I know it would me.

Thanks, Pete.

If you want anything, just call Agnew. - I will.

Connie .. Connie!

Now, what about that Smith woman?

We found a laundry mark on her clothes and traced it to this address.

I thought you'd want to follow it. - Yes, I do.

Take a man with you.

Look after Mrs Seymour, will you. - That won't hard to do, Pete.

Listen to me.

There is nothing to be afraid of.

Everything is going to be alright, darling.

Connie .. do you hear me?

This is your mother.

Yes, sweet.

You're going to be alright.

I want to get you out of here.

Shush.

Now listen.

Whitey is coming here with some friends in just a few seconds.

They're going to get you out of here.

But don't say a word.

Don't let on that you know me.

Do you understand?

That's my baby.

That's my baby.

Alright. I'll take care of it.

Reach!

Where is the girl?

What girl?

Sorry lady. - Out of the way.

Alright, pick her up and get her out of here.

Get 'em up!

[ Gunshot! ]

[ Gunshot! ]

Alright. What are you waiting for?

What can I do?

There's a key for these cuffs in the top drawer. No, not that drawer. Over there.

This is the room.

They paid in advance but I haven't seen either of them for a long time.

Is this the girl's husband? - Yes.

What's his name?

Mathews is the name they registered under, but she called him Spike.

We'd better get an ambulance.

Hold it.

Get away from that phone. I've got to call my office.

Is Connie here? - She's upstairs.

Took a clean getaway? - Clean.

No-one followed us. - Good.

Is Whitey with her?

What is it?

I didn't even know he'd been shot until we got here.

The boys will take care of everything.

Here is the key to the safe, Deke.

Give out all the money that's there.

And Deke.

If ever we don't get away. If ever ..

If ever something happens ..

I want you to do one thing for me.

Always deny that Connie was my daughter.

Oh, say anything. Say that I picked her up off the street.

Say she was some little guttersnipe that I felt sorry for, but ..

Never say that she belonged to me.

Give her a break.

Right, lady Sheila.

That I will promise.

That I will swear.

You wait here.

We'll be right down.

We have to move fast, baby. - Where are we going?

Mexico first. Deke will drive us.

I certainly made a mess out of things, didn't I.

There is no time to talk now.

Anyway, I ..

I understand that you know all about me, so ..

I guess we are even.

Now go to your room. Pack just what you need and no more.

Mother.

I think you're wonderful.

You never said anything like that to me before.

Don't call me mother.

From now on, I'm "Sheila".

Well, I got us into this jam. Are we going to get out?

Of course we are.

You're going to be all the things I dreamed.

Oh mother.

I've been so wrong.

You never would have been wrong if I hadn't been wrong before you.

Well .. I thought.

Keeping you away from things would make you different.

But life just doesn't work that way.

You have got an awful lot of me in you. You're going to have to fight it.

Just remember. I always loved you.

I always loved you from the bottom of my heart.

Now, hurry up.

Alright, so they both smoke the same brand of cigarettes. So what?

It might help to find out where they get them.

Why, you and the lady go sleuthing together. Why drag me in?

You let her go home alone. Something could have happened to her.

I was busy taking care of Greg.

He's pretty badly hurt.

Well, what do we do?

You cover the back of the house. I'll go in the front alone.

You sure are concerned about your little helper.

I sure am.

Ready darling? - Yes, mother.

Here you are. - Thank you.

That ODB mob grabbed the boys making their getaway.

How'd you know they were ODB men?

I recognised the guy I put cuffs on in the office.

Get her out of here. Down the back stairs and through the garage.

Mother, I won't leave you. - You'll do as I say.

Got the money, Deke? - All set.

I'll contact you in Mexico. Now get going.

Oh, Mother.

Go on, baby, I'll be seeing you. Hurry up.

Well.

How did you get in?

Let's say no-one answered the bell.

We have ways.

See, I had to see you.

I had to see if you're alright after Agnew told me what had happened.

I'm still a little shaky.

I'll be with you in a minute.

Are you alone?

No.

I've brought some of the boys with me.

Well ..

Ask them to come in.

You'll find drinks and cigarettes in the living room.

Don't tell me that you're smoking my brand of cigarettes now.

No, I'm not smoking them.

I took these off a half-dead mug.

Called Spike.

Mother.

[ 2x Gunshots! ]

Nice shooting.

This is most comprehensive Colonel Martin. You've done a fine job.

It's an amazing report.

Sheila Seymour was an amazing woman.

One had to know her ..

To appreciate how she could establish a service canteen for criminal purposes.

And make it one of the most popular on the West coast.

Tragic isn't it that such unusual talent should be used in the wrong direction.

Yes, sir.

At least the exposure of this canteen ..

Should be a lesson to the authorities overseeing such matters.

And to our servicemen who marry in such haste.

Why, they seldom really know very much about the girls they marry.

It's been a lesson alright.

And to some of the girls who were inveigled into the racket.

Yes, I see they ..

Convicted Mrs Seymour's adopted daughter.

Well, she was the least guilty of all, General.

Unfortunate victim of � vicious woman ..

Who was fighting her mother for control of the syndicate.

Incidentally, I see from your report ..

That this young woman is actually Mrs Seymour's daughter and not adopted.

That's right, sir.

Only no-one knows �t but this office.

And the Deacon.

Well, don't worry. It will be buried in the files.

I knew you would understand, sir.

* steve d *