Original subtitles

[Orchestral music]

[Music continues]

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[Upbeat music]

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[Ominous music]

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[Grunting]

Bert...

[Sighing]

Tough chase right?

- Grinder, all the way. - I'm sorry, Bert.

- What I did, I had to. - Where is she?

I don't know. Bert, please listen.

I've gotta have help. Yours.

I never ask a favor before from anybody.

- You don't rate. - Figured that.

If going down on my knees

And begging you'll mean anything...

As far as I'm concerned, not a thing.

The world just spit in my eye.

I know what the department means to you.

If you did know, you wouldn't be here. You know what you've done?

To yourself? To me? And for what?

She's nothing you think. Never was.

Yet you let her play you for the biggest sucker

Who ever fell for the oldest picture dame could make.

You, Ray Patrick, a cop.

A level-headed on the job, no fancy frills

Straight-shootin' cop.

Enough to make a man vomit.

Forget it.

Not making any more trouble for ya.

Twenty four hours, Bert.

That's all I ask. Just 24 hours.

Might wipe out the smell back home at the same time.

- 'Twenty four hours.' - Couldn't give you one hour.

I'm not compounding any felony.

Do you know what I've had to put up with?

I don't think I'll ever get clean again.

The Mayor, the Chief, the newspapers.

- Even the governor. - I'm sorry, Bert.

- I couldn't help it. - 'You were one of my men.'

Best of them. That's why I took this assignment personally.

We're going back together or I'm not going back either.

They've no right blaming you for what I did.

- 'Were you crazy?' - You tell me.

What made you do it?

That day... you assigned me to the Frank Dean case.

(Ray narrating) At the outset it didn't sound like anything special.

The usual routine tossed in my lap

Just as I was ready to call it a day.

Homicides got a lot in common with the fire department.

The alarm starts ringing and we're off whether we want to

Or not. Day or night. Rain or shine.

- What's the deal, doc? - Not pretty.

Face first. Right in the fire.

When it happened, it was burning.

- Fire kill him? - Nope.

Considerable. There's a fracture at the base of the skull.

The usual blunt instrument. Probably that.

- Ted? - Yup.

- That figurine? - It's cool.

- Take off anything? - Some beauties.

Whoever used it got a pretty tight grip.

Almost etched those prints in.

- His? - He hasn't got any.

See the position of the hands?

Fire did a good job on him.

Charred to the wrists. No skin left to take finger prints.

- Who found the body? - I did.

Now, who would wanna kill a nice gentleman like Mr. Dean?

- Here to find out, lady. - Name's Sparrow.

- Oh, tell me, Mrs. Sparrow. - Spinster.

Excuse me. How do you happen to find the body?

Smell of smoke. Something awful.

Like meat scorching.

That's exactly what it was, like meat scorching.

Do you ever see a man lying with his face in the fire like that?

I never did.

How did you get into the apartment?

Door wasn't locked.

What sort of a man was this Dean?

Nobody knew anything about him.

He only used this apartment about once a month.

- For a couple of days. - Friends ever visit him?

Only one I ever saw.

Young woman. Wore tight clothes.

Indecent the way it showed her shape.

Wonder it wasn't her that got killed.

'More the type working in a night club and all.'

Night club, which?

Place called "The Spotlight".

I heard him talk about it one time. Thin walls.

This girl, what was she like?

Wore tight clothes. Name was Eden.

At least that's what I've heard Mr. Dean call her.

Silly name for a girl.

Reminds you of original sin. Garden of Eden, I mean.

Works at the Spotlight, huh?

Over on Risdale street.

See you fellas later. Thank you.

[Instrumental music]

9:45 PM.

Check with head quarters and reported that things

Were good and I was stringing along on the lead the old lady

Had given me on the girlfriend of the dead man.

I was told to go ahead and lost no time

In getting down to the Spotlight.

[Car honking]

It wasn't a night club in the proper sense. Mostly a bar.

[Jazz music]

The usual types hanging around.

I went over to the bartender and asked him

If he had a girl working there named Eden. He said...

Eden, Eden Lane?

She won't be till around ten. She's a singer.

Workin' for you long?

So and so.

Mr. Art Dean, you know him?

What's the picture? You a cop or something?

Yeah. A cop.

Look, I own a straight place.

No monkey business either sides of the bar.

Don't figure those girls there is Herschels either.

One's a picture snatcher. The red head...

Okay, park the jitters. I'm not on the vice squad.

Oh. Sanitary inspector huh?

Homicide.

[Piano music]

I'll bat out the questions. You just field them.

This Eden Lane, know her well?

Just from comin' around here.

That dame there, the picture snatcher, Patsy Flint.

She's her room mate.

[Jazz music]

Might as well have a drink as we talk. Name it.

Thanks for nothing.

I don't come with the bar.

Thought it would make the talk easier if you had one.

Talk? Talk about what?

Eden Lane.

Two beers, Louie.

You must be kidding if you've got something cooking on Eden.

Why, that girl's a honey.

Bartender said you two room together.

- I tried. - When did you see her last?

Oh, tonight, before I came to work.

Don't come on the job together?

No. No, you see. She comes in around 10 o'clock.

That's for sure. Anyway she had a date tonight.

Who with?

Some guy who's got a crush on her.

(Male #1) 'Phone, Pat.'

Excuse me.

Hello...

[Murmuring]

[Pleasant music]

Thanks for the beer. Gotta get back on the job now.

- Have another one. - Fattening.

Sit down, watch me finish mine.

I really gotta get back on the job. I just...

I don't wanna embarrass you, sister. Sit down.

[Instrumental music]

This guy Eden had a date with tonight, do you know him?

- Uh-uh. - Eden didn't talk about him?

- Uh-uh. - You ever seen him?

Uh-uh.

What did you learn on that phone?

Look, I don't have to sit here and be insulted...

Don't be so sensitive. Doesn't suit ya.

Thanks for the company.

Now, we take a little ride.

- Who do you think you are? - Showed you before.

I don't have to go to the station

Because I haven't done anything.

Anyway, if this is an arrest, where is your warrant?

Just asked you to take a little ride with me.

[Intense music]

By the time we got to the apartment

I had no illusions about Patsy Flint.

A hard little package with a cunning brain

Sharpened by constant grinding against the world.

Pretty free with my apartment, aren't you?

Do I have to buy a ticket?

[Instrumental music]

[Music continues]

One of your accomplishments?

Could be. I've got a few.

Don't doubt it.

Who's gonna clean up this mess?

Both of us, I hope.

Each in his own way.

[Music continues]

- Your handwriting? - Could be.

Let's make sure. Write the same words.

I don't feel like it.

Number of Greyhound bus depot, please.

(Ray) 'Thanks.'

[Phone dial whirring]

7:50 bus, this evening, heading where?

Okay. Thanks a lot.

[Music continues]

[Instrumental music]

- Eden Lane? - Um-hm.

- Recent photo? - Took it myself, six weeks ago.

One female suspect named Eden Lang taking off

North bound Greyhound bus. Departed 7:50.

Bound San Francisco.

Blonde, 5'4", very attractive, shapely, blue eyes.

Carrying a sandal suitcase, light-airplane type.

Yup send out, right away.

What's Eden done? What's all this prying and snooping about?

- Could be murder. - Murder?

- Frank Dean. - Who said Dean was the victim?

You. You were the one that was talking about him all evening.

Jumped to a quick conclusion, didn't you? Why?

Look, I've answered all the questions, I'm going to answer.

Figured that. That's the reason, I'm not gonna ask you any more.

Goodnight.

[Instrumental music]

Putting the sordid bit of foul play to rights

Was gonna be a walk

And wasn't gonna put any kinks in my record.

Nine convictions in the past year

Out of 11 suspects I brought in.

I took a lot of pride in my work

And I knew I was in line for a top spot.

The upstate police had worked fast.

There was report on the suspect Eden Lane coming

As I came into the room.

[Clinking]

Alright, let's have it.

Just came in on the Dean suspect.

Got off near Merced.

Checked at the bus station comin' over.

Ticket man remembered her.

Bought her through ticket to San Francisco.

- Jumped the bus panicking? - Why not?

Suspect as hot as you think?

- Look's good. - What're you gonna do?

- Bring her back. - That sure?

Just take a little digging.

Merced, where could she hang out around there?

No dough and a face that'd stand out in heaven.

Lead pipe cinch.

Okay. All yours.

Run it down, wrap it up, mark it paid and take the bows.

- Thanks. - Keep in touch.

Right.

I was on my at the crack of dawn.

I figured it would take about five and half hours

To get up North, which it did almost exactly.

Hitting an even 60 miles per, I entered the city limits

Of Merced at lunch time and tried a gas station

Nearest to the bus depot for a lead on Eden Lane.

Yup. Night before last.

Darn pretty gal. She got off the San Francisco bus.

- Any idea where she went? - Yup.

- Mountain. - How do you know?

Well, she asked about hiring a car and a driver.

I rented her mine. George drove her. That's my son.

- Drove her where? - Trust Haven village.

You can't get beyond there in a car. Too much snow.

- What's the country like? - Pretty wild.

- Any houses? - Mighty few.

People livin' in 'em?

Sometimes on a weekend but none right now.

You know who owns 'em?

Well, they keep a list of the property owners

At Trust Haven tavern.

- Okay, thanks. - Sign right there, please.

[Engine rumbling]

The weather was fierce and getting worse by the minute.

Eight years with homicide taught me

That little things like blizzards

Must be taken in stride as occupational hazards

While keeping one's sight on the main objective.

[Wind howling]

The record has shown Frank Dean was the owner of a cabin

Four miles up from the village, right on the ridge.

Four miles on foot.

[Intense music]

At the 5000 foot level what there was of a trail

Petered out.

At 6000, I was having a terrible time

Struggling through the drifts.

At 7000, I had only a few 100 yards to the ridge.

It was anybody's guess if I'd make it.

[Instrumental music]

But I was on the trail of a killer.

I hate the wanton destruction of human life.

I had seen too much killing in the Pacific.

A killer, man or woman, no matter which

Is the enemy and deserves no mercy.

Was the Lane woman still in the cabin or had she flown the coop

Before I got here?

[Wind howling]

You're Eden Lane. Name's Ray Patrick.

- Why would I come with you now? - No rush.

Why'd you do it? Don't have to tell me, of course.

Come out in the wash. Sure can't tell a book by it's covers.

All sweetness, huh? Most dangerous type at that.

Don't suppose there's a phone here.

No.

Can wait till we get down to the general store in Crust Haven.

Drop it.

I was just going to fix the fire.

Drop it.

Pay attention, lady.

Whether the tax payers get stuck for the cost of your trial

Is not my business. I've just about finished mine right now.

Try pullin' a fast one and maybe those poor tax payers will have

Somethin' to thank me for.

- Plain? - I can't help what you think.

Try. Because if I happen to think wrong...

Please, don't threaten me.

I don't intend doing anything. I don't wanna do anything.

I'm ready to leave with you right now.

It was stupid of me to run away like I did.

Won't improve things to try a repeat.

Make 'em a lot worse in fact.

Excuse me.

May I rest while you're drying your feet?

I haven't had much sleep.

Go ahead.

Park it there.

[Instrumental music]

[Wind howling]

[Music continues]

Power lines must be down. I'll light the candles.

- Cigarette? - Thanks.

- Le Bon? - No thanks.

I only drink when I'm happy. Does that sound funny to you?

I've heard funnier. Don't laugh easy.

Occupational defect. Seen too much to cry about I guess.

Got any tears for me?

You got any comin'?

You know everything. Probably more than I do.

Finding me that quickly.

Few minor points need clearing up.

Why, for instance. And how.

Talking about it only means re-living it.

Self defense, he came at you. You were forced to. That right?

Maybe you don't know as much as I thought.

Willing to learn.

Maybe this is a new angle.

- There was no struggle. - Wasn't self defense?

No.

Skip the details then.

Must tell you anything you say can be held against you.

- You asked to hear it. - Told you. Skip it.

I don't like the idea helping people put themselves

Behind the eight-ball.

Even if it is to their own taste.

What are you aiming to be, a martyr?

Can't start down the mountain tonight.

Time enough in the morning.

- It's getting late. - Tired.

The only way I can wake up from this nightmare

Is to go to sleep.

Better turn in then. We're due for an early start.

[Instrumental music]

Goodnight.

[Instrumental music]

[Music continues]

Can't sleep?

Who was it that found him? Was it Mike?

Mike?

Mike, Dean's bodyguard and chauffeur.

Never knew Dean had one.

A little old lady in the next apartment smelled smoke.

[Intense music]

Hope I didn't hurt him too much.

He's a strong man and I couldn't have hurt him too badly.

Frank Dean? He's dead.

Dead?

I'm here to bring you back.

To answer for his murder.

'What is this, news to you?'

You're saying that I killed him.

What did you think?

Yes. Could be.

Figurine was heavy and I struck him hard.

Should be no surprise then, should it?

[Music continues]

[Engine rumbling]

We got out that morning.

Some line men came up to repair the fallen wires.

They helped us down the mountain side to Crest Haven.

And all along on the way back, Eden Lane was gentle

Resigned and cooperative.

[Instrumental music]

There was a loose end to this Dean case that nagged at me.

That's the way I like to package these cases.

Quick arrest, fast trial, clean verdict.

And close the books.

The way the District Attorney hammered at her

And the quiet way she sat there taking it.

She had it coming.

She killed her middle-aged admirer

Because he wanted to shake loose.

That story of hers about running out of the apartment

After tapping him on the head.

And not knowing he was dead and fell in the fire place.

They were trying the cheap backgrounds she worked in.

Her crummy friends, her way of life.

She had a good lawyer.

- Public defender. - She got a fair trial.

This Frank Dean, I never believed a man could live

In a city and nobody know anything about him.

And that bodyguard of his, Mike.

The fellow who chauffeured him around

He could've thrown some light on the case.

You ever consider maybe that there was no Mike?

No chauffeur? Ever consider that?

Maybe just an attempt on part of that girl to throw a red-herring

Of doubt and confusion.

[Telephone ringing]

Homicide, Patrick here. Oh, yeah, Doris.

Rawley here.

Oh, put him on.

Yes.

Yes, I'll tell him.

Thanks, very grateful.

Upstairs, says he's very proud of the way you handled the case.

Wants me to give you a commendation.

Thanks.

Got a lot publicity to the department.

Might as well milk it.

They're moving Lane to upstate tomorrow.

I'm assigning you to accompany the matron.

Well, I'm going out to get something to eat.

[Instrumental music]

[Engine rattling]

I don't know what it is about trains

The minute I set foot on one I get hungry.

- Alright with you, Ray? - Go ahead.

I'll bring you something back from the diner?

Not right now.

- You, honey? - No, thank you.

I'll be back soon.

[Horn blaring]

Don't give up.

He could've fallen in the fire when I struck him.

I could be responsible.

That missing chauffeur of his...

You never saw him?

No.

When we were out together, Frank drove.

[Horn blaring]

[Engine rumbling]

[Horn blaring]

Lindaville, three minute stop.

No...

What's wrong?

Eden, what is it?

I saw Frank Dean.

What are you talking about?

I saw Frank Deane.

The man on the platform underneath the light.

That was Frank Dean, I saw him, he was there.

- Eden... - I did, I saw him.

It was! It was!

Get hold of yourself.

You don't believe me?

Imagination fools people, eyes plays tricks.

It must've been something like that

No, I saw him, I swear.

Didn't you see that man on the platform?

No, I wasn't looking out the window.

That was him, I saw him.

How can you believe me?

I know I'm upset but I'm not insane.

That was him. He was there.

Easy, easy.

[Engine chugging]

(Ray narrating) I'll remember that train ride as long as I live.

Not because I was taking a prisoner to her desserts.

I've done that before.

But because for the first time, I began to doubt.

And when a man begins to doubt what he represents is right...

Must be right.

He's coming apart at the seams.

This Frank Dean...

What did he look like?

You heard at the trial.

There never was a picture of him.

I heard a composite description by several people.

You tell me now.

He was a strong man, carried himself well, Grey hair

Had money, could talk to head waiters

And they'd listen to him, that type.

That was Frank Deane at the station

What can I do to make you believe in me?

What can I say, what can I do?

(Eden) 'They'll put me in jail for something I didn't do.'

'My life is at your mercy.'

Even though what I saw sounds impossible, unbelievable.

'Will you let this happen to me, let them do this to me?'

[Train chugging]

I ask you, beg you, believe me

It was Frank Dean, he's alive.

'I beg you, Ray, believe me.'

[Loud rattling]

Well...

Now, I feel better.

You poor boy, you must be famished, Ray.

And you, honey, you've got to eat something.

They'll be closing the diner soon.

Eden's hungry now.

Would you go back to the diner

And get some coffee and sandwiches, Mrs. Thomas?

I'm sorry, I should've asked you before.

No trouble.

Glad you found your appetite, my dear.

But I...

- She's starved. - Be right back.

I'm not the least hungry.

Even the thought of food upsets me.

Wanted to get her out of here, had to...

- Put on your coat. - My coat?

We're getting off the train.

We?

I've got to know if it was Frank Dean you saw.

I couldn't live with the thought that...

Maybe we were wrong, that everybody was wrong.

That you're heading for a payoff, not coming to you.

To live with that thought for the rest of my life, I...

It was Frank Dean. It was Frank Dean.

The matron won't be gone longer than ten minutes

[Bell ringing]

That bell...

It's a crossing along the Highway 24.

Get into your coat.

The train's doing about 65 miles an hour right now.

At the pass at the bridge

We'll slow down for 3 minutes.

- If we time it, we can jump. - Jump?

It's the only chance there is, you afraid?

Only to stay on the train.

Take that bag.

[Train chugging]

Throw it now!

As soon as I give the word, jump.

Jump!

- You alright? - Yes.

You cold?

Just nervous.

I'm giving us one week.

It's a long chance

And I'm giving it to myself more than you.

For my own sake I must try to solve

This mystery of Frank Dean.

No, I haven't finished.

When this week's out and ends with nothing...

You've got a date in prison and I'm gonna see you keep it.

If you got any other ideas get rid of them.

'Cause if anything stops me from delivering you there

I'll treat you as an escaping prisoner

And that'll be that.

Now let's go!

We registered in this collection of dog kennels

As Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell.

I told the old man who runs the place

That our car was being fixed in town.

I asked him if he'd rent me his... he said...

Sure, anytime.

I sell groceries and things too.

All these cabins got electric plates.

We'll order for some as soon as I get cleaned up.

Fine. Here's your key.

I'm going into town.

If that old guy next door wants to come in and clean up

Don't let him.

Tell him you did it yourself.

Don't get any ideas about takin' a walk.

It's too dangerous.

Don't worry, I won't.

I was cruising down the main street of Lindaville

When I saw her.

I parked the car, got out...

And followed Patsy Flint.

Yes, sir.

I was supposed to meet a friend here

I'm a little late. I wonder if you've seen her.

About 5'4", red hair, quite attractive.

You must mean room 204, Miss Smith.

She just went out.

Well, that's too bad, I'll try later.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

[Intense music]

[Music continues]

[Door closes]

[Piano music]

[Jazz music]

Not a blessed word...

About the loss of that girl's money.

She hasn't gone to the police.

Maybe she hasn't found out that it's gone.

Not likely.

I bet she checks that money six times a day.

Must have a smell to it.

She mustn't want it known she's in town, why?

(Ray) 'What's she doin' here?'

I told you, Lindaville is her hometown

There's nothing unusual about her visiting.

The timing, I don't like it anyway you answer it.

And that goes with this load she was hauling too.

What's she taking aboard?

I wish I could tell you.

Ever known her to flash this kinda money before?

A $100 in the bank is all I've known her to have.

No use losing sleep.

Goodnight.

I was getting desperate.

Everyday I put behind us drawing nothing but blanks

Was a day thrown to into the ash can

And hauled to the city dump.

We'd never get it back.

Receipt.

Hope your wife is feeling better this morning.

She'll be alright.

How long do you expect to stay?

Garage says it'll take a few more days to fix our car.

- Alright if I keep using yours? - Sure.

I don't get to town very often.

Too much to keep me here.

- Thanks. - You're welcome.

[Clatters]

- Cute number. - The figurine?

Biggest industry out here, them ceramics.

Made here in Lindaville?

Right at the north edge of town.

Very interesting place. You oughta take a look at it.

Lots of tourist too.

Thanks, I will.

- So long. - So long.

- Anything I can do for you? - Just passing by.

The sign outside says visitors are welcome.

Yes, we're always happy to show folks around.

Step in, my name is Dunlap. I'm the foreman here.

[Instrumental music]

Could I buy one of these figurines?

Well, ours is a wholesale business but I guess it's okay.

- I'll wrap it up for you. - Thanks.

Here we are. I'll give you the wholesale price on that, $7.

- Oh, hello, Mrs. Abbott. - It's nice to see you, Dunlap.

Shall I tell Mr. Abbott you're here?

Oh, no, don't disturb him. I know he must be busy.

I heard about a new design and just stopped by to look at it.

Yes, Mr. Abbott brought it from the city

It's still in the baking ovens.

Oh, excuse me, this is Mrs. Abbott

Her husband owns this plant, Mr. uh...

- Caldwell, how are you? - Glad to know, Mr. Caldwell.

Bye.

Nice woman, comes from the oldest family in town.

- High society. - Oh, thanks for everything.

Don't mention it.

That group photo on the wall...

I had to get my hands on it.

I had to figure a way to stick around

Until they'd closed up shop and everybody went home.

I had all the taste of solitary confinement

I ever want in the hours I spent at that closet.

Finally... the coast was clear.

[Suspenseful music]

[Grunting]

[Alarm ringing]

It must've been the night watchman

Strength of a bull...

I couldn't run the risk of fighting it out.

Got him a lucky punch and ran.

Well, here...

Study these faces.

Tell me if any of them looks like or resembles Frank Dean.

Well...

None of these men is Frank Deane.

Cockeyed idea I had.

And about as bright as the others I've come up with.

Ray...

I don't want you to feel that I...

I expect...

Don't let it get you down.

We both knew it was a terribly long chance and...

And if it doesn't come off, then...

Then there's no more than we really thought.

There must be somebody somewhere!

I wish I had the words to tell you how I really feel.

For all you know, I'm as guilty as they say.

But you believed in me...

And I'm grateful.

Every side a blank wall...

Only one lead, Patsy Flint.

And what she means to it...

- Tomorrow's another day. - Yeah, if you believe in it.

You don't owe me anything.

Are we kidding ourselves hoping for a miracle?

Suppose I was wrong.

Suppose that man at the railroad station wasn't Frank Dean.

You said imagination can trick people.

Suppose I made a mistake.

You saw him. I believe in it.

You can't start doubting yourself now.

You've got to believe.

It's the only thing we have to hang on to.

You saw him. It's got to be.

- It's almost dawn. - Yeah.

Another day.

[Instrumental music]

I don't feel unhappy.

I don't think I'll feel unhappy no matter what happens.

Does that sound foolish to you?

Eden...

About what I said, that night at the culvert.

That if I didn't find anything...

Let's wait before it passed.

What I said about delivering you to prison...

I've got $5000.

We'll go to San Francisco. We can make it.

Ships are going to all parts of the world.

Two more days left. Let's use them.

Not get tired talking like this.

Two days...

They way it shapes up I'll need two years.

How long can we hope to duck the police?

And that Flint girl, she's dynamite for us.

Are there any words in the language

For a roughneck like me?

Without making a modeling fool of himself

To tell the woman he loves how much he loves her.

To tell her that he'd lay down his life if it'd help her.

Try saying any of it and she'd think you'd flipped your lid

And be really scared.

I can't afford to overlook a thing.

Can't afford shooting the works on a wrong hunch.

I've got to keep grabbing for the breaks.

- Ray... - Hm?

Take care.

I promise.

You go along for years, applauding yourself

On being a smart cop...

An asset to the police department.

A guy who knows all the answers and methods.

What a joke.

On your own, and without the precision team work

Of thousands of men on the force

To fall back on at every step...

You aren't such a mastermind, are you now?

Better go home and tell that girl of yours

Who trusts you, that you're up a tree

Same as any other lawbreaker the police are hunting...

That you'll never find Frank Dean for her...

That your both line of disgrace

And in prison for your stupid conceit.

Even though she's innocent.

Eden?

Honey?

- Steven. - Have you seen my wife?

- Ain't she in your cabin? - Did you see her leave?

I've been here going over my books

There ain't the money in this business folks think there is.

- You haven't seen her? - Oh, maybe she went for a walk.

It gets boring being inside so long.

- Wanna use my telephone? - No, thanks.

What now?

Now I know who I was licked.

Now I know I'd better give up and not even try to think.

(Ray) 'And then you came.'

Bert, how did you find me?

Encasing every motel within a 20 mile radius

That pass the river crossing.

I figured it dope or real smart cookie

Would be hiding out close to where he jumped from the train.

So I happen to stick close to Lindaville

When he's trying to be smart.

I've gotta take you back, Ray.

I guess you do.

Word of honor you won't try anything?

Word of honor... still mean something to you?

Could be. Okay?

Yeah.

What about something to eat?

I'll fix it.

Sure you won't eat?

Not hungry.

- Bert... - Hm?

- Tell me something... - What?

In my place, what would you have done?

- That girl? - No, not her.

The way I tried working this case here

The things I did, the angles I formed.

Were they what you would have done?

Just about.

Then the two of us should be twice as good.

I've got to take you back, Ray.

Twenty four hours, Bert. Just twenty four hours.

Would it make that much difference?

I don't ask it in the name friendship.

You've done me too many favors...

And I've repaid you in a lousy way.

I don't even ask you for Eden Lane.

I ask you for Frank Dean.

Let's put that ghost to rest one way or another

And tie up this case clear.

You've never been a sloppy worker.

You've got your 24 hours and you've got my help.

After that I'll take you in.

A deal?

What now?

Patsy Flint. She's number one on our list.

(Bert) 'That's something new.'

Must be getting religion.

It's Sunday morning.

Let's go to church.

[Instrumental music]

You stick here. She knows you.

[Music continues]

[Whispering] Page 32.

- Page 32. - Thank you.

Get anything out of it?

Only the conviction I should attend church more regularly.

- Wanna talk to Patsy? - Let's get some lunch.

Give her time to get back to her room.

This is it.

Exit Patsy Flint.

And only about an hour ago too.

Afraid to ask who gave her the cue?

It wasn't Eden.

Maybe there was more between these two girls

Than you caught on to.

Even ran out on you, didn't she?

You don't know her, Bert. She's no murderess.

A book from the church. She must've walked off with it.

Well, there is nothing we can do here now.

I'll tip off the local authorities, they know I'm here.

- In the meantime... - What are you gonna do?

- Let's go. - Where?

To pay a social visit to the Abbotts.

What's Abbott doing at the factory on a Sunday morning?

Butler said he was going over some accounts.

His wife is gonna pick him up after church.

I'd like to talk to her also.

Who are you?

What are you doing here?

Police?

- That's right. - What may I do for you?

You can tell me why you beat up my friend the other night.

I, uh, I beg your pardon.

You should beg his. He took the punishment.

I don't understand.

You should. Since you left your signature on his face.

Well, the man was a trespasser.

You usually hang around the plant at night?

- Sometimes. - Why?

- Oh, various reasons. - To meet Patsy Flint?

- Who? - The girl blackmailing you.

What fantastic?

Nothing fantastic about the $5000 you gave her, real solid.

Of all the incredible...

Patsy Flint told you that she'd been robbed.

And she wanted a replacement.

Still in their diapers.

My friend checked at the bank.

The only sum of that amount drawn out was by you.

I run a large business.

I have substantial cash expenditures.

I, uh, I mean, uh...

Yeah? What do you mean?

I, uh, I refuse to discuss such a preposterous idea.

Let's discuss the appointment Patsy Flint had with you

She couldn't keep because you killed her in a hotel room.

Are you insane? I was where near the Tower Hotel this morning.

I beg your pardon.

The Tower Hotel. Yes, yes. That's where she was staying.

Now just hold on.

Don't regard this statement to self-incriminatory.

'Most everybody that comes to town stops at the Tower Hotel.

It's the only one here.

(Bert) 'Then where were you this morning?'

My chauffeur dropped me off here and then took my wife to church.

I had some important work to do.

I expect them shortly to pick me up.

I will not be badgered by these offensive, criminal inferences.

Then talk straight or you'll be badgered a whole lot more.

Is your chauffeur Japanese?

Yes, yes, Sam's been with me for years.

Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't know you were busy, dear.

We're just leaving.

Mrs. Abbott, these gentlemen are police officers.

'Some woman has been killed at the Tower Hotel.'

What could that possibly have to do with us?

A girl named Patsy Flint.

Really? But why...

Routine check.

We've met before.

(Bert) 'Few days ago. Right here.'

Oh, yes.

Well, good afternoon.

(Mrs. Abbott) 'After all these years, my family the most respected'

'And oldest in town.'

'You're dragging our good name through the filth.'

(Mr. Abbott) I swear, Beatrice, I had nothing to do with that girl.

And also this preposterous lie that I killed her.

How can you ever think...

No need to defend yourself, I know you didn't kill her.

'Well then, why? Why all these uncalled for insults?'

(Mrs. Abbott) 'The dirt you've strewn over our family name.'

'What you've done to me.'

(Mr. Abbott) 'You're overwrought, my dear.'

'You never speak to me in this manner.'

'Come home'

- What's the play? - I heard them taking.

She was whooping out a terrific lacing.

- Tip off anything? - Just a feeling.

[Machine whirring]

Abbott's alibi stands up.

He had no time to finish Patsy in the hotel

And get back there without a car.

Could've used a taxi.

He wouldn't risk having the driver finger him.

Abbott could be Fred Deane

But that Japanese chauffeur couldn't be Mike.

Your investigation in the city, never a whisper about

Deane running around with an oriental?

Never a whisper about him running around with anybody.

Except Eden lane.

Chauffeur is clear.

Abbott wouldn't take him away from home

He'd stand out like a sore thumb.

He wouldn't risk having the man drop a word

In front of Mrs. Abbott about Eden Lane.

No, it's too dangerous, all the way around.

Eden... she couldn't have done it.

[Knocking on door]

Yeah?

'It's Buckley. You got a Mr. Rawley in there?'

- Yeah, what is it? - 'Telephone call for him.'

Okay.

[Whirring continues]

[Whirring continues]

[[Whirring stops]

[Knocking on door]

Well, they got Eden.

She surrendered to the warden early this morning.

And she...

Patsy. Eden couldn't have done it. She couldn't.

No, she couldn't.

She thought I'd fail, so she gave herself up.

That's about it.

I gotta do something to help her.

Twenty four hours up pretty soon.

The answer's in this somewhere.

And Abbott must know it.

Abbott didn't kill Patsy Flint.

But he must be Frank Deane.

Alright. So he's Frank Deane.

Patsy Flint knew what he looked and she's dead.

Eden knew what he looked like, and she's in the pen.

There must be somebody who knows him.

Miss Sparrow.

The old lady who lived in the apartment next to him?

- She saw him a couple of times. - She's there and Abbott's here.

[Bell ringing]

You think we can depend on her?

She was excited about the trip.

Told me on the phone, she'd take the next train.

Hey, look there.

[Train chugging]

Didn't know you were leaving town.

Mrs. Abbott's been planning this trip for some time.

- Pleasant journey. - Very kind of you.

They must be taking the same train

That's bringing the old lady.

[Train screeching]

(Miss Sparrow) O-oh! Oh, oh. Yoo-hoo!

Miss Sparrow.

Quick, that man in the window.

Is he the one you know as Frank Deane?

[Train horn bellowing]

Did you see him? Was it Frank Deane?

Well, wait till I catch my breath.

Was it Frank Deane? Was it Frank Deane?

I-I-I think I sprained my ankle.

Deane? Tell me was it he? Was it Frank Deane?

[Murmuring]

Tell me was that man Frank Deane?

Of course it was, I'd recognize him anywhere.

- Hey, you. - Get aboard.

You stop.

[Indistinct]

That policeman...

Recognized you. Come on.

The woman who occupied the apartment

Next to yours identified you.

Why did you frame Eden Lane?

I... I was forced to. She was blackmailing me.

- That's a lie. - Now take it easy.

Let him talk.

I met her on a bank trip to the city.

Stopped in for a drink where she worked.

Gave her the phony name of Frank Deane.

I come from a small town.

The people there don't look tolerantly

On this sort of situation.

'It flattered me to be seen with such a beautiful young woman.'

'Then I, uh, I received the letter... unsigned.'

'It demanded $2,000 with the threat if I didn't pay it'

'My wife would be told.'

I was panic stricken.

I accused Eden of trying to blackmail me.

She pretended innocence.

Then I... oh, I said some horrible things.

She struck me with a statue.

When I recovered consciousness, she was gone.

Who is this fellow Mike? Chauffeured you around the city?

I was so infatuated with her that I gave this fellow a job

Of keeping tabs on her while I was away.

And after Eden left your apartment, Mike came.

Yeah. Yeah, he came.

Said he knew my right name and hinted not to subtly

That he'd keep his mouth shut for a price.

And it was his body they found lying in the fireplace

In your apartment and identified as yours.

- You killed him. - Yeah.

Afterwards, when they accused and convicted Eden Lane

For the crime, I felt secure.

Until I, I got a telephone call from Patsy Flint.

She told me that Mike had been her boyfriend

And the price for her silence had now gone up.

Five thousand dollars.

I gave it to her.

I was at the Flint girl's mercy.

You were right. That night I fought with you in the factory

I was there to meet her.

She said she'd been robbed

And demanded another equal sum.

I told her I'd have it for her in a couple of days.

She was killed before we met again.

You recognize this hand writing?

'It was found in the Flint girl's room.'

Well, that...

That girl was working both sides of the street.

Blackmailing my wife as well as me.

Then...

Then Patsy Flint, the one who killed her was...

Beatrice!

[Train horn bellowing]

Beatrice! Beatrice!

[Train chugging]

[Dramatic music]

I've agreed not to prosecute you.

Willing to consider the temporary blackout.

You know what this means.

More washed up as a police officer.

Couldn't be anything else.

What'll you do now?

Thought I'd go into the private investigation line.

Find any problems, I'm your friend.

[Phone buzzing]

Rawley. Oh, yes, sure.

Send him in right away.

Just about time to make it before it closes for the day.

- Make what? - The marriage license bureau.

Had a little influence to expedite matters

But the warden's a great guy with an understanding heart.

Thank you, captain.

Captain? Lady, you got me all wrong.

You mean, best man.

[Orchestral music]