# The Canary Murder Case (film)

A Paramount Picture
The Canary with Margaret O'Dell
Adolph Zukor and Jesse L. Lasky present The Canary Murder Case with William Powell James Hall Louise Brooks Jean Arthur A Malcolm St. Clair Production
B. P. Schulberg, General Manager West Coast Productions
All rights reservedCopyright—MXMXXVIII
Directed by Malcolm St. Clair
Photographed by Harry Fischbeck
Associate Producer Louis D. Lighton
Story and Dialogue by S. S. Van Dine
Adapted by Albert Shelby LeVino
Screen Play by Florence Ryerson
Passed by the National Board of Review
The Players
Week beginning Monday evening Matinees Tuesday and Saturday Drummond and Wilkins Present Margaret O'Dell in the Canary Revue a gorgeous musical extravaganza with Alice La Fosse
Charles Spottswoode
Tell me, Vance, what happened backstage? Were you able to see the Canary?
Philo Vance
No luck, Charles. She's about as hard to get at in her dressing room as she is in that swing.
Philo Vance
If you want an idea of what I ran into back there, let me point out a few of her admirers.
Philo Vance
Do you see the man standing in the box opposite?
Charles Spottswoode
Yeah.
Philo Vance
Well, that's a Dr. Lindquist.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh.
Philo Vance
He was outside her dressing room, just now, along with these other two.
Charles Spottswoode
Mm...
Philo Vance
I understand that the Canary has her claws in all three of them.
Charles Spottswoode
Are they rich?
Philo Vance
Mm, naturally.
Charles Spottswoode
Then what does she want with my son? The allowance I give Jimmie is hardly tempting.
Philo Vance
Ah, my dear Charles, our little feathered friend in the swing there has social ambitions. She wants to be Mrs. Jimmie Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
Agh! Impossible. I'd do anything in my power to prevent that, even if Jimmie still cared for her. And I still believe that she'll listen to dollars and cents.
Philo Vance
Mm, I wouldn't be too sure of that, Charles. As you know, I have more or less made a hobby of crime and the criminals. That girl is no ordinary blackmailer. And I'm firmly convinced that she'll stop at nothing to marry Jimmie.
Charles Spottswoode
But Jimmie won't have her. I tell you, he has really come to his senses.
Philo Vance
Another girl?
Charles Spottswoode
Yes. Well, you know her—Alice.
Philo Vance
Oh, yes, of course. A very nice girl, too.
Charles Spottswoode
Yes, she is. Vance, I'm afraid that I'll have to use my own judgment in this matter. I'm going to see this Canary at her apartment as soon as possible.
Philo Vance
Well, very well, Charles, but act quickly. Oh, I know you'll smile, but...you know, I have a strange premonition that the Canary is headed for disaster.
Houseboy
Evening, Mr. Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
Hello, there.
Houseboy
Shall I announce you to Miss O'Dell?
Jimmie Spottswoode
No, don't bother. That's perfectly all right.
Houseboy
Very well.
Alice LaFosse
Jimmie!
Jimmie Spottswoode
Alice!
Alice LaFosse
Jimmie, you were going to see the Canary again.
Jimmie Spottswoode
No, I wasn't, dear. In fact, I had just started to put this note under her door to tell her so.
Alice LaFosse
Oh, Jimmie, I'm afraid of her. Oh, she's clever and cruel and unscrupulous. She'll hurt us again, I know she will.
Jimmie Spottswoode
No, dear, she can't hurt us now.
Charles Spottswoode
Hey, boy, will you announce my na-...uh, never mind.
Houseboy
Yes, sir.
Charles Spottswoode
Hello, Jimmie!
Jimmie Spottswoode
Why, hello, Dad!
Charles Spottswoode
Good evening, Alice.
Alice LaFosse
Good evening, Mr. Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
You know, I am delighted that you and Jimmie have made it up again.
Alice LaFosse
Oh, thank you. You know, I'm gonna try to show you that all show girls aren't like...well—
Charles Spottswoode
Like the Canary, eh?
Alice LaFosse
Yes.
Charles Spottswoode
Yes, I want to talk to her. Do you suppose she's home yet?
Jimmie Spottswoode
I suppose so. You know, Dad, you're a regular guy for helping me out on this thing.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, now, now.
Jimmie Spottswoode
You know, if the Canary ever came between Alice and me again, I don't know what I'd do. I don't know what I'd do.
Charles Spottswoode
It's all right, Jimmie. I'll do everything I can.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Shall I go along with you?
Charles Spottswoode
No, I can handle this better alone. I'll send in my name now.
and you are responsible for all my trouble. You took me away from the sweetest girl in the world. You made me steal to gratify your extravagance——and now if it weren't for Dad, I'd be in jail. He's straightened things out at the bank, and I never want to see you again.
Jim.
Houseboy
Mr. Spottswoode is calling.
Margaret O'Dell
Send him in, please.
Charles Spottswoode
Good evening, Miss O'Dell.
Margaret O'Dell
Good evening.
Margaret O'Dell
Shall we go over here?
Charles Spottswoode
Why, yes!
Charles Spottswoode
Will you sit down?
Margaret O'Dell
Thank you.
Charles Spottswoode
Well, I don't think we need waste any time, Miss O'Dell. You know why I am here. How much?
Margaret O'Dell
Nothing doing, Mr. Spottswoode. I have decided to marry Jimmie.
Charles Spottswoode
I'm afraid that marriage is quite out of the question, Miss O'Dell.
Margaret O'Dell
Oh, you're sure about that, are you?
Charles Spottswoode
I'm positive.
Margaret O'Dell
Well, how would you like me to tell the world about Jimmie's embezzling from your bank?
Charles Spottswoode
What?
Margaret O'Dell
You heard me. You know, Jimmie has a weakness for writing letters, and I have a weakness for using them.
Charles Spottswoode
If Jimmie did write you a letter, you will tear it up—now, before I leave here.
Margaret O'Dell
Sure. Go ahead. Tear it up yourself. My memory is still perfect.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, yes, yes, I see, yes. Very well. You win. Now, what do you really want?
Margaret O'Dell
I've told you what I want. I want to be Mrs. James Spotts and that's that!
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, haven't you any heart? Won't you give him up, Miss O'Dell? For the sake of his happiness. For the sake of the girl whom he really loves. Give him up.
Margaret O'Dell
Now, what do you want me to do, burst out crying? Listen, Mr. Spottswoode, I know all about Jimmie and Alice, and if he marries her, I'll tell every newspaper in this country that he's a dirty thief!
Charles Spottswoode
No, no, you wouldn't dare do that. That's blackmail.
Margaret O'Dell
Sure it is! Call it anything you like, but get this into your head—that that's what I'm going to do!
Charles Spottswoode
Well, that remains to be seen. Good night.
Margaret O'Dell
Mr. Cleaver, please.
John Cleaver
This is Mr. Cleaver speaking.
Margaret O'Dell
Not the Mr. Cleaver, the great reformer?
John Cleaver
Yes.
Margaret O'Dell
Well, this is your favorite weakness.
John Cleaver
Margaret!
Margaret O'Dell
Don't get nervous, baby. I've got some news for you.
John Cleaver
Good news?
Margaret O'Dell
Yes, darling, I'm going to marry young Spottswoode.
John Cleaver
Well, well, well. May I send you my heartiest congratulations?
Margaret O'Dell
You bet you can, but send them from Tiffany's.
John Cleaver
What's that?
Margaret O'Dell
You heard me. And send me one of those fancy autographs of yours on a nice fat check.
John Cleaver
I'm very sorry, but I'm afraid I shall have to refuse.
Margaret O'Dell
Ah, be yourself. Big reformers who lead double lives can't refuse.
John Cleaver
Now, look here, I'll see you dead first!
Margaret O'Dell
Listen, you'll be here after the theater with the dough and like it!
John Cleaver
The little rat!
Margaret O'Dell
May I speak to Mr. Louis Mannix, please?
Louis Mannix
Quiet, quiet, my wife.
Margaret O'Dell
Don't get excited. I just thought you'd like to know I've sold the body down the river. I'm gonna marry young Spottswoode.
Louis Mannix
Haha! Splendid!
Margaret O'Dell
Yes, darling. And I've decided that you're the best man.
Louis Mannix
Best man?
Margaret O'Dell
Yeah, the best man I know of to kick in with a nice handsome present in cash.
Louis Mannix
Now, see here, you know I can't afford...
Margaret O'Dell
What you mean is you can't afford to let the ball and chain know what a big-hearted Santy Claus you've been.
Louis Mannix
Now, look here, I've told you what I'd do to you if you ever got to the wife.
Margaret O'Dell
Forget that bunk! And be on my front porch after the show with that check, or I'll get to your wife all right!
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
It's Dr. Lindquist speaking.
Margaret O'Dell
Oh, yes, Dr. Lindquist, how would you like to do me a little favor?
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Why, certainly, Margaret. I'd do anything for you, you know.
Margaret O'Dell
How would you like to go jump in the lake?
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Oh, Margaret, don't joke with me. I'm not in a mood for it.
Margaret O'Dell
Ah, get wise to yourself. I'm through with you. You give me the willies.
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
I have warned you, Margaret. I'm desperate! If I can't have you, no other man shall ever have you alive!
Margaret O'Dell
Tony!
Tony Skeel
In person, baby. How's my little squaw?
Margaret O'Dell
I thought you were still in jail.
Tony Skeel
Well, I got tired of the big house, Mrs. Skeel, so I dropped in to see my little wife.
Margaret O'Dell
I'm not your wife.
Tony Skeel
How come?
Margaret O'Dell
I divorced you six months ago.
Tony Skeel
Yeah? Listen, baby, a little thing like a divorce don't mean anything to me. I heard you taking those suckers down over the phone, and I'm in and in on the works, 50-50.
Margaret O'Dell
You big crook! You're not in on this one!
Margaret O'Dell
Don't, you big heel!
Tony Skeel
Hey, I ought to bump you off.
Margaret O'Dell
You do and you'll swing for it.
Tony Skeel
Yeah? Well, maybe it'd be worth it. Now, get this, I'm in on this racket, and I'll be back for my cut.
Margaret O'Dell
Yeah? Try and get it.
Tony Skeel
Say, baby, don't bother changing the box on this door. The lock I can't pick is still in Yale.
11:32 PM
Charles Spottswoode
Miss O'Dell, may I see you for a few moments, please?
Margaret O'Dell
It won't get you anything, but come ahead.
Charles Spottswoode
Thank you.
Charles Spottswoode
I have something to say to you, Miss O'Dell, which I believe will make you change your mind about Jimmie.
Paperboy
Paper, mister? Morning paper?
Louis Mannix
No. No. No.
Paperboy
Thanks, mister.
Charles Spottswoode
Very well, Miss O'Dell. That suits me perfectly. Think it over tonight, and I'll come for your answer in the morning. Good night.
Charles Spottswoode
Boy, would you call me a taxi, please?
Houseboy
Yes, sir.
Margaret O'Dell
Ahh! Ahh!
Charles Spottswoode
What's that?
Houseboy
Miss O'Dell!
Charles Spottswoode
Miss O'Dell, what's wrong?
Margaret O'Dell
Something startled me, Mr. Spottswoode, but I'm all right now.
Charles Spottswoode
Are you sure you're all right?
Margaret O'Dell
Yes, quite sure. Run along home and come back in the morning.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, very well, then. I'll see you in the morning. Good night.
Yellow Cab Co.
S17
LENox 2300
Charles Spottswoode
Stuyvesant Club.
Taxi driver
Yes, sir.
Houseboy 2
Achoo!
Houseboy
Say, fella, what's the big idea of you coming in here late?
Houseboy 2
Oh, me late?
Houseboy
Yes, you late.
Houseboy 2
I've been here for an hour.
Houseboy
I don't want that stuff.
Houseboy 2
Well, I've been here—
Houseboy
I beg your pardon.
Charles Spottswoode
Mr. Spottswoode, calling on Miss O'Dell by appointment.
Houseboy
She don't answer.
Charles Spottswoode
Has she gone out, do you think?
Houseboy
I've been on all night.
Charles Spottswoode
And you haven't seen her go out?
Houseboy
No, sir.
Charles Spottswoode
That's funny. Do you suppose she can be ill?
Houseboy
We may go and knock.
Charles Spottswoode
Yes, yes, let's do that.
Charles Spottswoode
Miss O'Dell? Miss O'Dell? Are you ill?
Houseboy
Ugh! Lord!
Charles Spottswoode
What's the matter?
Houseboy
Something has happened.
Charles Spottswoode
Go get your passkey.
Houseboy
Yes, yes, sir.
Houseboy
Say fella! Just gets running up and get a cop! And, say, get a big one too!
Charles Spottswoode
Here, you'd better let me have that.
Patrolman Cassidy
What's the matter, here?
Charles Spottswoode
Something's happened in there, Officer. You'd better take that key and go in.
Patrolman Cassidy
She's dead.
Patrolman Cassidy
Police headquarters, please.
Patrolman Cassidy
Patrolman Cassidy speaking. There's a woman dead at 184 West 71st Street. It looks like murder.
Officer on phone
Okay, Cassidy.
Detective
She's been dead since midnight, Sergeant, strangled to death.
Sergeant Heath
That long, eh?
Policeman
Sergeant, the District Attorney just pulled up, and he's coming right in.
Sergeant Heath
That's great.
Policeman
He's got that Mr. Philo Vance with him.
Sergeant Heath
Well, that'll be just dandy. Sherlock Holmes on the job again, eh? Heads up, boys.
District Attorney Markham
Good morning, Sergeant.
Sergeant Heath
Good morning, Mr. Markham.
Sergeant Heath
Well, hello, Mr. Vance.
Philo Vance
How are you, Sergeant?
Sergeant Heath
Fine. Haven't seen you since the Greene murder case.
Philo Vance
Quite right.
District Attorney Markham
Oh, good morning, Mr. Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
Good morning, Mr. Markham.
District Attorney Markham
Well, Sergeant, what does it look like?
Sergeant Heath
Well, Chief, it's just another clear case of robbery—all I can make out of it.
Philo Vance
Nasty business, Charles, huh?
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, terrible! As you know, I was here last night to make my final appeal to her—for Jimmie—and when I came back this morning for her answer, this had happened.
Philo Vance
Yeah. They'll probably want to keep you here for a few moments, Charles.
Charles Spottswoode
Yes, I suppose they will.
Philo Vance
And, by the way, I explained to the District Attorney on the way down about Jimmie and the girl here.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, that's good. I'm glad you did that, Philo. You know, if I can tell you anything that will help—
Philo Vance
Well, perhaps later, Charles. Meanwhile, I'll have a bit of a look about.
Sergeant Heath
I don't think there's anything worth you looking at, Mr. Vance. It's a clear case—robbery. She put up a battle and they wrecked the joint.
Philo Vance
I see. As simple as that, eh?
Sergeant Heath
That's it.
Philo Vance
Well, just the same, Sergeant, if you don't mind, I think I'll have just one little look.
Sergeant Heath
Surely, Mr. Vance, go right ahead. Make yourself perfectly at home.
Philo Vance
Thank you, Sergeant.
Houseboy
Excuse me, Mr. Policeman, when do we sleep?
Sergeant Heath
Now, you get this, Sonny Boy. You'll go for a long sleep, unless you button up that big trap of yours.
Houseboy
Yes, sir.
District Attorney Markham
Sergeant?
Sergeant Heath
Yes, Chief?
Bankers Review
Published for the investor
Sept. 1 1928
10c Per Copy $2 Per Year
Investors Warned Against Tipsters' Sheets
Downtown Shopping Area Versus Community Center
Danger in Decentralizing and Over-Retailing
Proper Concept of the Business Cycle
Tax Problems for Special Legislative Session
Building-Loan, Real Estate and Oil Developments
District Attorney Markham
Any fingerprints?
Sergeant Heath
Well, so far, no. I'll tell you, this job was done by an expert. It's perfect.
Philo Vance
Yes, that's just the trouble.
District Attorney Markham
What's that?
Philo Vance
It's too perfect.
Sergeant Heath
Well, that's a little over my head, Mr. Vance. Just what do you mean by "too perfect"?
Philo Vance
Well, Sergeant, what usually happens when a heavy lamp like that is knocked off a table?
Sergeant Heath
Well, I don't know, but I'll bite. What does happen?
Philo Vance
It usually smashes, doesn't it?
Sergeant Heath
It might.
Philo Vance
Well, look at that one.
Sergeant Heath
Well, what about it?
Philo Vance
Well, simply that that lamp was placed there to give the effect of a struggle.
Sergeant Heath
Mm, maybe.
District Attorney Markham
Let me see, Sergeant. It does look a little obvious, doesn't it, Vance?
Philo Vance
I should say so.
Sergeant Heath
Hey, boy, what happened here last night after you heard Miss O'Dell scream and you and Mr. Spottswoode ran down the hall to her door?
Houseboy
Well, she said she was all right, and I called Mr. Spottswoode a taxicab.
Sergeant Heath
And you got away with it?
Houseboy
Yes, sir.
Sergeant Heath
That's all right. What time was this?
Houseboy
It's on the call sheet that I gave you, about tw-tw-tw-tw-tw-tw-tw-tw-—
Sergeant Heath
Never mind, I can read it.
Sergeant Heath
12:10. Now, Mr. Spottswoode, where did you go last evening after you left here?
Charles Spottswoode
I went directly to the Stuyvesant Club.
Philo Vance
That's right, Sergeant. I met Mr. Spottswoode at the club shortly after twelve. We played poker until almost daylight I believe, wasn't it?
Charles Spottswoode
Why, it must have been. I know it was long after four.
District Attorney Markham
Oh, yeah, you mentioned that coming down here, Vance.
Philo Vance
Right.
District Attorney Markham
That'll be all for the present, Mr. Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
Thank you, Markham. But if you do want me later on, Mr. Vance has my number.
District Attorney Markham
Quite right.
Charles Spottswoode
Goodbye.
District Attorney Markham
Goodbye.
Charles Spottswoode
Goodbye, Philo.
Philo Vance
Goodbye, Charles. I'll phone you.
Sergeant Heath
Go right ahead, boys.
Sergeant Heath
Joe.
Philo Vance
Oh, Sergeant, would you step over here for a moment, please?
Sergeant Heath
All right, Mr. Vance. What is it now?
Philo Vance
Do you observe anything peculiar here?
Sergeant Heath
Why, surely! The key is on the inside.
Philo Vance
Excellent, Sergeant. Don't you think we might go over that knob for fingerprints?
Sergeant Heath
Well, now, uh, uh... Oh, I get you, Mr. Vance. The murderer locked himself in this closet. When Spottswoode left, he came out, and croaked the Canary.
Philo Vance
No, I hardly think so, Sergeant. If you will observe, this is the one place in the entire apartment that hasn't been disturbed. Now, what does that signify? That, and the fact of the key being found on the inside?
Sergeant Heath
Just as I told you—the murderer was in this closet, and came out when Spottswoode left.
Philo Vance
Mm, I don't think you quite get my point, Sergeant. If the murderer had been in here, he would have upset this closet as he did the rest of the apartment, wouldn't he?
Sergeant Heath
Well, yes, I guess he would.
Philo Vance
Precisely. Gentlemen, it was someone else who was in that closet while the apartment was being ransacked, and that someone witnessed the murder.
Sergeant Heath
Through the keyhole.
Philo Vance
Splendid, Sergeant. And if you'll find who was in that closet, I think you'll learn from him, or her, who it was that killed the Canary.
District Attorney Markham
Sergeant, get the fingerprints, will you?
Sergeant Heath
Oh, Joe.
District Attorney Markham
Oh, Sergeant, you might check up on the other apartments. Mr. Vance and I are going outside.
Sergeant Heath
You, come here.
Houseboy
Yes, sir.
Sergeant Heath
Who lives in that apartment there?
Houseboy
Miss Alice LaFosse.
Sergeant Heath
Isn't she the dame that had the battle with the Canary the other night over young Spottswoode?
Houseboy
Y-y-y-y-y-y-y-y-y-y-y-y—
Sergeant Heath
All right, all right.
Philo Vance
Impossible to get in here.
District Attorney Markham
I'd say so.
Philo Vance
Hmm... Well, what is this? Hmm...
(By Pacific & Alliance
This sugar mill at San Juan was left minus roof and [...] of sides. Heavy sacks of sugar within probably [...] protecting main structure from storm's fury.
Philo Vance
That's odd—may prove very interesting. What do you think?
Sergeant Heath
I see, Miss LaFosse, I see. But you and the Canary had a fight over young Spottswoode, didn't you?
Alice LaFosse
Why, yes. We did have a fight. You see, she took Jimmie away from me and got him into trouble. But that's all over now. Jimmie and I made it up just the day before yesterday.
Sergeant Heath
You didn't see young Spottswoode last night, did you?
Alice LaFosse
Why, yes. He brought me home from the theater.
Sergeant Heath
Aha! So, he was hanging around here last night, was he?
Alice LaFosse
Yes, but he was with me until after 1:00 in the after—
Sergeant Heath
Now, wait a minute, lady. Wait a minute. You save your alibis till we get you down to headquarters. Go slip on your things.
Alice LaFosse
Why, look, you don't think that—
Sergeant Heath
Put them on!
Alice LaFosse
Oh, Mr. Vance, I'm frightened.
Philo Vance
Well, now, don't you be worried, Alice. Just you do as the Sergeant says.
Alice LaFosse
All right.
Sergeant Heath
You know, I'm beginning to question this robbery theory, Mr. Vance. You and I were right.
Philo Vance
Hmm? Oh, yes.
Sergeant Heath
Why, I can see plainly that this murder is all mixed up in a love pact.
Philo Vance
Hmm.
Sergeant Heath
You know Chief, I think we'd better round up this young Spottswoode and give him the works. What do you say?
District Attorney Markham
Quite right, Sergeant.
Philo Vance
Markham, I'd like you to add a few names to that list, if you don't mind. The men I mentioned on the way up here—Dr. Ambrose Lindquist, John Cleaver, and Louis Mannix.
'Canary' Murdered Margaret O'Dell, Famous Stage Beauty Found Strangled in Apartment
⟨Fire⟩ Destroys ⟨Morrillard⟩ Home
(Special Cable to the Herald)
New York, Monday—The ⟨Morrillard⟩ mansion in the [...] regarded as one of the ⟨finest⟩ examples of the Revolutionary period of architecture, was destroyed by fire early today, with many rare species of flowers and tropical ⟨plants⟩ housed in its botanical ⟨garden⟩. The amount of the loss ⟨has not⟩ been made public, but it is ⟨believed⟩ to be fully covered by ⟨insurance⟩.
(Special Cable to the Herald)
The engagement of the artist [...] Lester Norris has arrived [...] at the winter home of his ⟨fiancee⟩, Miss Dellora Angell,
Gates Heiress Married Soon
Miss Dellora Angell Will Wed Lester Norris Within Few Days
With a Board of Education elected at the municipal election Monday, a fight was started here today to remove J. A. Cranston, superintendent of schools for the past eighteen years, and D. K. Hammonds, principal of the high school for eleven years. Petitions were placed in circulation asking the new board to discharge the two last year over that of the year before, was for salary account and only $15,000,000 for all othter budgetary purposes.
se of approximately $13,000-
Installation of a dredge to deepen the channel of the Kern River, lessening flood danger and reclaiming a large area of
District Attorney Markham
Well, young man, what do you know about what happened at the Canary's apartment last night?
Jimmie Spottswoode
Nothing. But look here, sir. That has nothing to do with Alice...I mean Miss LaFosse. The papers say the Canary was murdered before midnight, and I tell you we were together the whole time. It isn't fair to hold her. You haven't the right.
Philo Vance
Now, Jimmie, don't get worked up. Everything is going to be all right. Why not interview the others first, Markham?
District Attorney Markham
Very well. Gordon, take Mr. Spottswoode out in the other room and hold him there. I'll talk to you a little later, young man.
Philo Vance
Be off.
District Attorney Markham
Well, who's next on the list? Mannix.
Philo Vance
I'd like to make a bit of an experiment, Markham. Have you a pad and pencil there?
District Attorney Markham
Yes. There you are.
Philo Vance
Do you have that newspaper handy?
District Attorney Markham
Yes, right here.
District Attorney Markham
All ready?
Philo Vance
All right.
Louis Mannix
Good morning, Mr. Vance.
Philo Vance
Good morning.
Louis Mannix
Mr. Markham.
District Attorney Markham
Good morning. Will you please take a seat?
Louis Mannix
Thank you.
Louis Mannix
Sorry.
District Attorney Markham
Mr. Mannix, there are a few questions I'd like to ask you.
Louis Mannix
Questions? What about? I don't know anything about this! It was a great shock to me!
District Attorney Markham
What was a great shock to you?
Louis Mannix
Why, I thought perhaps you were going to ask me about the Canary.
District Attorney Markham
Heh, exactly. You read my thoughts, Mr. Mannix. Did you ever see that necklace before?
Louis Mannix
Why...why, yes! Fact is, I gave that to the Canary. A little token of esteem. Nice girl, the Canary. I'd met her once or twice. Haha! Casual acquaintance.
District Attorney Markham
Rather an expensive gift to give to a casual acquaintance, isn't it? Do you know that the Canary was strangled with that necklace?
Louis Mannix
Most remarkable! Unfortunate, I should say.
District Attorney Markham
Where were you last night between eleven and 1:00?
Louis Mannix
Between eleven and one?
District Attorney Markham
Yes.
Louis Mannix
Let me see... Why, I was home. I went to bed about 10:00—uh, tired out. Haha, you understand.
Philo Vance
Pardon me, Mr. Mannix.
(News photo)
watched breakers lash East Long Beach shore
Island and Staten shores were hit by winds on p. 1; other pics. on pp. 1 and 20.
District Attorney Markham
Any comment to make, Mr. Mannix?
Louis Mannix
Odd habit of mine, drawing triangles.
Philo Vance
Mr. Mannix, if you were in your bed last night at 10:00, how did you manage to drop that newspaper just outside the Canary's apartment? And that edition isn't on the streets until eleven.
Philo Vance
Well, you've caught me. I'll tell the truth. It's always best to tell the truth, especially when there's no reason to lie. It was like this. The Canary called my home at dinnertime last night. Most embarrassing. Mrs. Mannix was with me. I had omitted to tell my wife about the Canary. She wouldn't have understood. The Canary told me that she was going to be married, and wanted to see me. Said that I should come to her apartment at 11:00. Well, I...haha...I couldn't argue over the phone. The missus was listening. So, I said "all right".
So, at 11:00, I went to the Canary's apartment. I entered the hall by a side door. I went directly to her apartment. I was about to enter when I heard voices inside. I listened. There was a man in there, and he was arguing. Of course, well, that was no place for me. So, I returned home without seeing the Canary, or entering her apartment.
District Attorney Markham
Well, that'll be all the questioning for the present, Mr. Mannix, but I'll have to ask you to wait in the outer office. I may want to speak to you later on.
Louis Mannix
Oh, won't you let me go home? I'll get in an awful mess with my wife.
Louis Mannix
I'm sorry. You'll have to wait.
Louis Mannix
Oh, Mr. Markham, I wouldn't run away.
District Attorney Markham
Uh, Millfield. That'll be all.
Louis Mannix
Mr. Markham, you've gotta help me square this with my wife.
District Attorney Markham
We will now have Mr. Cleaver.
District Attorney Markham
Good morning, Mr. Cleaver.
John Cleaver
Good morning, Mr. Markham. Can I do anything for you?
District Attorney Markham
Will you please have a seat?
John Cleaver
Do you mind if I smoke a cigar?
District Attorney Markham
Oh, please do.
District Attorney Markham
Mr. Cleaver, do you mind if I ask you some questions?
John Cleaver
Why, of course, if I can be of any help.
District Attorney Markham
Where were you last night between eleven and 1:00?
John Cleaver
Motoring, up the Hudson, in the moonlight, alone. Though, I don't see what that has to do with the District Attorney's Office.
Philo Vance
Well, only this, Mr. Cleaver, if you were indulging in the nocturnal beauties of nature along the Hudson last evening, now, how does it happen that this cigar band bearing your initials was found just outside the Canary's window at an early hour this morning?
John Cleaver
Well, if I was passing the Canary's apartment, you can't twist that into a crime.
Philo Vance
Oh, then, you did pass her apartment?
John Cleaver
Why, yes, I've nothing to hide. It was about dinnertime last night—the Canary phoned to me. Oh, of course, my acquaintance with her was wholly in my line as social reformer. I had hoped that she was going to leave her immoral life and marry and settle down and be a good woman.
District Attorney Markham
And you kept the appointment?
John Cleaver
Yes—yes and no. I was a little late. I arrived at her apartment, ooh, about a quarter to twelve, or thereabouts. I waited for a minute outside her window to light a cigar. Then, I glanced down to the side entrance to the building. And, who should I chance to see but Dr. Lindquist. He was behaving in a very peculiar manner—seemed to me very queer, very mysterious. I didn't like it. So, I made up my mind not to see the Canary again. And, I turned and walked back home. Now, that's all I can tell you. I'm a busy man, and I hope you'll excuse me.
District Attorney Markham
I'm very sorry, Mr. Cleaver, but I'll have to ask you to wait in the outer office. I might want to question you again.
John Cleaver
You mark my words, Markham, you'll be sorry for this.
District Attorney Markham
Haha, well, I'll take my chances, Mr. Cleaver.
Philo Vance
Charming fellow, Cleaver.
District Attorney Markham
Yeah, rather. By the way, Vance, I didn't see you pick up this cigar band in front of the Canary's apartment this morning.
Philo Vance
I didn't.
District Attorney Markham
Where did you get it?
Philo Vance
From your wastebasket.
District Attorney Markham
Wastebasket?
Philo Vance
Cleaver dropped it there when he entered. I took a chance on his not remembering that. It seemed to work.
District Attorney Markham
Well, I'll be...hmm... Very good. Dr. Lindquist.
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Let me go! Hey!
Detective
Come on, Doctor!
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Take your hands off me!
Detective
I chased him. We caught Dr. Lindquist, just as he was leaving town!
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
That's a lie! I was on the way to a patient.
District Attorney Markham
Won't you please sit down, Doctor? I'd like to ask you a few questions.
Doctor, where were you last night between eleven and 1:00?
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
None of your business.
District Attorney Markham
It is some of my business. You were seen coming out of the Canary's apartment at midnight.
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Yayaya!
Detective 1
Not so fast, Doctor!
Detective 2
Calm yourself, Doctor!
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
I am sorry. I lost my temper. I am under a terrible strain! I loved the Canary dearly. And...I'm terribly upset!
District Attorney Markham
Do you know that the Canary was strangled with that necklace?
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Good God! You...you don't accuse me?!
Philo Vance
Now, Dr. Lindquist, there's really no need for you to be excited. Now, Mr. Markham, here, is merely trying to find out what you know.
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Know?! Know?! I know...I know nothing!
Philo Vance
One moment, Doctor. Markham, don't you think that we might postpone the interview with Dr. Lindquist for a while?
District Attorney Markham
Why, what... Very well. That will be all for the present, Doctor. I'd like to have you remain in the outer office.
Detective 1
Come on, Doctor.
District Attorney Markham
What was the idea, Vance? We had him where he was about to tell us everything.
Philo Vance
Well, on the contrary, Markham, in his present extremely excited condition, I very much doubt if he would have told us anything. I do think, however, that if we give him a chance to cool off a bit, he's very likely to tell us the truth.
District Attorney Markham
Well, perhaps you're right. Good morning, Sergeant.
Philo Vance
How are you, Sergeant?
Sergeant Heath
Good morning, Chief. Hello, Mr. Vance! Take a slant at those. There is the Canary's jewels. They were found in an ashcan about a block from her apartment this morning. I guess that kind of disproves the robbery theory. We were right, Mr. Vance.
Philo Vance
Hmm?
Sergeant Heath
I say, we were right.
Philo Vance
Oh. Oh, yes. Yes, apparently we were, Sergeant.
Sergeant Heath
Now, it's up to us to find another motive.
Philo Vance
Yes, quite right, Sergeant. You know, Markham, I've been thinking this over all morning, and I believe that I can come pretty close to the psychology of the man who committed this murder. I believe that I can pick him out from that list of suspects, if he is among them. However, it will require a bit of an experiment.
District Attorney Markham
Now, what is in your mind?
Philo Vance
Well, I'd like to use that conference room of yours, there, for a friendly little game of poker with your suspects.
Sergeant Heath
Well, now, that's a cute idea.
District Attorney Markham
Well, just what is your idea, Vance?
Philo Vance
Well, just this, Markham. A man's true nature always comes out in a game of poker. Now, I know the type and the temperament of the man who murdered the Canary. And in a game of poker, I believe that I can come pretty close to putting my finger on him.
Sergeant Heath
That's a new way of catching crooks! Hahahahaha!
District Attorney Markham
Maybe be silent, will you, please? Well, go ahead, Vance. The experiment can do no harm.
Philo Vance
Quite right. Now, I'd like to have the Sergeant tell them.
Sergeant Heath
Well, I'd be very glad to help you, Mr. Vance, as long as don't try to hang the murder on me!
District Attorney Markham
Sergeant, will you take Mr. Vance's orders, please?
Sergeant Heath
Okay, Chief.
Philo Vance
Will you get me a deck of cards, and have some poker chips handy just outside there?
Sergeant Heath
That's easy.
Philo Vance
Then bring in the suspects, and impress upon them that they may be detained here for quite a while, possibly two or even three hours.
Sergeant Heath
Well, that's okay, Mr. Vance, but, how are you gonna get these suspects into this poker game without it appearing phony to them?
Philo Vance
Well, Sergeant, I rather think that the power of suggestion will take care of that.
Sergeant Heath
Oh, "power of suggestion"?
Philo Vance
Exactly. Now, Sergeant, look in from time to time, and when I pull my handkerchief from my pocket—so—break up the game by telling them that they are all free to go home. Understand?
Sergeant Heath
I get you. But, when you release them, I'll have my boys tail them.
Philo Vance
Very good, Sergeant.
Sergeant Heath
And, Mr. Vance, here's to the power of suggestion! Hahahahahahahaha!
Philo Vance
Jimmie?
Sergeant Heath
Now, gentlemen, you're liable to be here for two or three hours, perhaps longer.
John Cleaver
That's outrageous!
Sergeant Heath
Just make yourselves at home.
Louis Mannix
Say, you know, this is going to get me in an awful mess with my wife.
John Cleaver
That is of no interest to me, sir.
Louis Mannix
I'm sorry.
Jimmie Spottswoode
What's the idea, Mr. Vance? Well, what are they going to do with Alice?
Philo Vance
Now, Jimmie, don't you worry. Nothing is going to happen to Alice.
Louis Mannix
Say, Mr. Vance, you know, this is gonna get me in an awful mess with my wife! Martha is a...my wife's a wonderful woman and all that, but sometimes she just doesn't understand me. The last time I was little...indiscreet, it cost me a fur coat. Haha! I hate to think what this is gonna cost. Haha!
Say, don't you think if you put— All right. Beg your pardon. I'm sorry. Mr. Vance, you haven't got an extra pack of cards, have you?
Philo Vance
I'm sorry, Mr. Mannix, but you're welcome to these.
Louis Mannix
Oh, no, no, no, no, thanks just the same. Haha. I wish we could play a little cards.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Say, that's a good idea! How about poker?
Philo Vance
I'm agreeable. What about the others? Dr. Lindquist?
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Anything to pass the time.
Philo Vance
Mr. Cleaver?
John Cleaver
Well, as a rule it's against my principles, but I suppose on an occasion like this, one can relax such rules.
Philo Vance
Just draw up chairs, gentlemen.
Philo Vance
Thank you.
Philo Vance
Sergeant, how about some poker chips?
Sergeant Heath
Surely.
Detective
Chief?
District Attorney Markham
Yes?
Detective
Mr. Spottswoode is here.
District Attorney Markham
Let him in.
Detective
Come in, Mr. Spottswoode.
District Attorney Markham
Good morning, Mr. Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
Good morning, Markham, good morning. I say, Markham, what are you holding Jimmie for? Surely you're not accusing him.
District Attorney Markham
No, no, of course not. We're simply trying to find out what he knows, that's all.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, yes, yes. Where is he now?
District Attorney Markham
Why, in the other room, there, with Vance.
Charles Spottswoode
May I see him?
District Attorney Markham
Why, certainly. Of course you could.
District Attorney Markham
Mr. Vance, Mr. Spottswoode is here.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Oh! Hello, Dad!
Charles Spottswoode
Well, hello, Jimmie.
Philo Vance
Good morning, Charles.
Charles Spottswoode
Good morning, Philo.
Jimmie Spottswoode
But, Dad, what are you doing here?
Charles Spottswoode
I came to be with you, Jimmie, while you're detained.
Philo Vance
Oh, by all means. We've just started a little game of poker here, Charles. Would you like to join?
Jimmie Spottswoode
Come on, Dad, sit and take a hand.
Charles Spottswoode
Well, all right. I'll sit in.
Philo Vance
That'll be fine. I suppose you'll take that chair, Charles.
Charles Spottswoode
Thank you.
Philo Vance
Gentlemen, this is Mr. Spottswoode. Mr. Mannix.
Louis Mannix
Mr. Spottswoode.
Charles Spottswoode
How do you do, Mr. Mannix?
Philo Vance
Dr. Lindquist.
Charles Spottswoode
Doctor.
Philo Vance
And Mr. Cleaver.
Charles Spottswoode
Mr. Cleaver. How do you do?
John Cleaver
How do you do?
Philo Vance
Shall it be jackpots, gentlemen?
Charles Spottswoode
Why, yes, anything.
Louis Mannix
Yes, the missus and I usually play jackpots.
Philo Vance
Cards?
Louis Mannix
Three, Mr. Vance, please.
Louis Mannix
Thank you.
Philo Vance
Cleaver?
John Cleaver
Two, please.
Louis Mannix
So, it's between you and me, Mr. Cleaver.
John Cleaver
Yeah.
Louis Mannix
Hmm... Ha! I'll bet a white one.
Louis Mannix
Oh, so you're calling me.
John Cleaver
Yeah.
Louis Mannix
Well, just openers, pair of jacks.
John Cleaver
Three aces.
Louis Mannix
Well...
Jimmie Spottswoode
So, you called a one chip bet with three aces.
Philo Vance
Open.
Charles Spottswoode
I am out.
John Cleaver
Dealer?
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
Passes.
John Cleaver
How many, Mr. Vance?
Philo Vance
Two cards, please.
John Cleaver
Mr. Mannix?
Louis Mannix
I think I'll play these.
Philo Vance
I'll check the bet to you, Mr. Mannix.
Philo Vance
Calling.
Louis Mannix
Nine, eight, seven, six, five—and they're all spades.
Philo Vance
You bet on a sure thing, Mr. Mannix.
Louis Mannix
Ah, touché.
John Cleaver
I open for one.
Jimmie Spottswoode
I'll stay.
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, let's make it a little more interesting. Ten more.
Louis Mannix
Well, that lets me out.
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
I'm out.
Jimmie Spottswoode
And me.
Philo Vance
I'll stay with you, Charles.
John Cleaver
Cards, gentlemen?
Philo Vance
Three for me, please.
Louis Mannix
One, two, three.
John Cleaver
Mr. Spottswoode?
Charles Spottswoode
I have plenty.
Louis Mannix
Mmm.
Philo Vance
A white stack, Charles.
Charles Spottswoode
Two white stacks.
John Cleaver
Hey.
Philo Vance
Up two chips, Charles.
Charles Spottswoode
Two? Ahahaha! Oh, you want me to do the betting, eh? All right.
Philo Vance
I am afraid I am overcome by curiosity. What have you?
Charles Spottswoode
Hahaha, haha! Two deuces.
Philo Vance
They're good.
Charles Spottswoode
They're...they're what? Well, why the philanthropy, Philo?
Philo Vance
Well, I had ace high.
Charles Spottswoode
Hahaha!
Sergeant Heath
Pardon me, Mr. Vance. Could I speak to you a moment?
Philo Vance
Excuse me, please.
Sergeant Heath
We've traced the fingerprints, and this is the bird that was in the closet, and saw the Canary murdered.
Philo Vance
Gentlemen, here is the man who was in the Canary's clothes closet and who witnessed her murder.
Charles Spottswoode
Hmm! Well, I shouldn't like to be the man he saw.
Louis Mannix
Haha! Thank goodness he didn't see me through the keyhole.
Dr. Ambrose Lindquist
So, that man witnessed a murder.
John Cleaver
Singularly unattractive countenance.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Well, if he knows, why doesn't he tell who did it?
Sergeant Heath
Gentlemen, I have been instructed by the District Attorney to inform you that you're all free to go home.
Louis Mannix
Thank goodness for that! I wonder what the wife will say.
Philo Vance
Has anyone a fountain pen, please?
Jimmie Spottswoode
There's mine.
Philo Vance
Oh, thank you, sir.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Mhm!
Louis Mannix
Sorry. Bye.
Sergeant Heath
Now, what I didn't tell you about this bird, Mr. Vance—in front of the others—is that he phoned in and said that he'd be in the District Attorney's office tomorrow, and spill the whole works. He says that he saw the guy that croaked the Canary, and he'll come in and tell us who it was. Now, we haven't been able to locate him yet, so I guess we'll just have to wait.
Philo Vance
Well, Sergeant, that takes the matter out of my hands.
This is my third and last warning. If you don't come across with that money by tomorrow morning, I'm going to squeal to the police.
Philo Vance
Markham, there can be no doubt of it. The same person who strangled the Canary strangled Skeel. This new murder was done to cover up the first. Skeel was obviously blackmailing the Canary's murderer. He threatened to inform the police of what he had seen through the keyhole of the closet. And when the murderer learned yesterday at the poker game that the police knew who had been in the closet, he put Skeel out of the way at the earliest possible moment.
District Attorney Markham
I believe you're right, Vance. Oh, Martin.
District Attorney Markham
Did any of the suspects get away from your men last night?
Martin
We never lost sight of Lindquist, Mannix, and the girl, but young Spottswoode and Cleaver gave us the slip.
District Attorney Markham
That'll be all.
Martin
Okay, Chief.
District Attorney Markham
Well, Vance, that means Jimmie and Cleaver.
Sergeant Heath
Morning, Chief.
District Attorney Markham
Good morning, Heath.
Sergeant Heath
Good morning.
Sergeant Heath
Hello, Mr. Vance.
Philo Vance
Good morning, Sergeant.
Sergeant Heath
Well, Chief, everything's okay. I've got the guilty man, and I've got him right.
District Attorney Markham
You've got him?
Sergeant Heath
I hope to tell you I have.
District Attorney Markham
Where is he?
Sergeant Heath
All right, Mac. Bring him in.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Mr. Vance.
Philo Vance
Jimmie.
Jimmie Spottswoode
This fool arrested me this morning at breakfast for the murder.
Sergeant Heath
Why, it's just like shooting fish in a tub, Chief. I've got all the dope, and I've got it down pat. Motive and everything. Now, this dame Alice croaked the Canary—jealous, because she'd stolen her fella. The kid here bumped Skeel off to shut his mouth and to protect the dame.
Jimmie Spottswoode
It's a lie!
Sergeant Heath
That isn't all, Chief. I've got the evidence. And it's not psychology, Mr. Vance.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Mr. Vance, he lies! He hasn't any evidence! He couldn't have any!
Philo Vance
Just a minute, Jimmie.
Philo Vance
Sergeant, what is your theory?
Sergeant Heath
Well, I don't go on theory. I use cold facts, Mr. Vance. Now, you wait a minute.
Did you ever see that pen?
Jimmie Spottswoode
Yes, it's mine.
Sergeant Heath
You bet your life it's yours!
Take a look at that pen, Mr. Vance.
Jimmie From Dad
Sergeant Heath
Chief.
District Attorney Markham
Well?
Sergeant Heath
Now, listen to this. This morning, I found that pen on the floor, there, by the table where Skeel was murdered. And the kid here admits that it's his!
District Attorney Markham
Well, young man? What have you to say?
Jimmie Spottswoode
Yes, I killed them. Both of them.
Sergeant Heath
Huh, I guess that does it, Chief. We've got him in a sack. Now, this dame Alice—
Jimmie Spottswoode
Wait a minute! You've got what you wanted. Now, take me off.
Sergeant Heath
Take him away, Max.
Well, I'll see you later at the office, Chief.
District Attorney Markham
All right, Heath.
Sergeant Heath
Sorry, Mr. Vance.
District Attorney Markham
Well, Vance, I guess that closed the case.
Philo Vance
No, Markham, it doesn't.
District Attorney Markham
What do you mean?
Philo Vance
I mean that the boy is not guilty.
District Attorney Markham
Well, that's nonsense!
Philo Vance
Not nonsense, Markham, because I know who is guilty.
District Attorney Markham
Oh, come now, Vance, that's—
Philo Vance
I tell you, Markham, I know! And inside of one hour, you'll know, too. I'm going to telephone at once, to the real murderer, and have him come to the Canary's apartment. And I want you to be there.
District Attorney Markham
The boy has confessed everything!
Philo Vance
Markham, if you don't meet me there, you'll be the laughing stock of New York in 24 hours, because I'll have the confession of the real murderer.
District Attorney Markham
Well, all right, Vance. If you want it that way, I'll be there.
Telephone operator
Number, please.
Philo Vance
Bayview 2121.
Telephone operator
Bayview 2121.
Philo Vance
Yes, please.
Philo Vance
Uh, this is Philo Vance. I want to speak with—
Charles Spottswoode
Oh, hello, Philo, how are you?
Philo Vance
I didn't recognize your voice. I have something of extreme importance to tell you. Jimmie has just been arrested. He has confessed to the murder of both the Canary and Skeel. Do you understand?
Charles Spottswoode
Yes, I understand, Philo. Jimmie is not guilty. I am the man you want.
Philo Vance
How soon will you meet me at the Canary's apartment?
Charles Spottswoode
It'll take me almost an hour to get in from the country, but I'll be there.
Philo Vance
Good.
District Attorney Markham
It's been over an hour now, Vance.
Philo Vance
Now, don't be impatient, Markham. He'll be here.
Bell System
District Attorney Markham
Who is it you're expecting?
Philo Vance
You wouldn't believe me if I told you. And, I must admit that without his confession, I haven't a shred of real proof to offer you.
Philo Vance
Hello? Yes. Uh, this is Mr. Vance speaking. What?! Yes. All right.
District Attorney Markham
What is it, Vance?
Philo Vance
Spottswoode has just been killed in a motor accident.
District Attorney Markham
Spottswoode killed?!
District Attorney Markham
My sympathies, old man. I know what great friends you were.
Philo Vance
It's worse than you realize, Markham. It was Spottswoode who killed both the Canary and Skeel.
District Attorney Markham
Spottswoode?
Philo Vance
I've known it ever since the poker game.
District Attorney Markham
But how could you know?
Philo Vance
Sit down, Markham.
Philo Vance
It wasn't really so difficult. Remember, the man who committed this particular crime must have had certain definite qualities—a mind capable of working out a well-planned and brilliant course of action, willing to take a desperate chance and see it through.
Now, consider the men in the game. Jimmie I ruled out at the start. But I've known him as a boy, and his youth and impulsiveness were hardly consistent with such a...such an obviously premeditated murder. Lindquist was far too excitable and erratic to have plotted such a carefully calculated crime. Cleaver, much too cautious, and entirely lacking in the necessary boldness. Mannix, timid and unwilling to take any risk except upon an absolutely sure thing.
The only man at the table with enough imagination to plan such a crime, and with sufficient self-confidence and daring to carry it through, was Spottswoode. When he held a pair of deuces, refused to draw to them, and bet every chip he had on the chance of bluffing me out, a realization suddenly dawned upon me that he was the murderer, for he was the one man of them all psychologically fitted for such an act.
District Attorney Markham
But, how about finding Jimmie's pen in the Skeel apartment?
Philo Vance
I borrowed Jimmie's fountain pen after the poker game. My hypothesis is that in the confusion, Spottswoode put the pen into his own pocket and that Jimmie saw him do it. That is why Jimmie made his confession—to shield his father.
District Attorney Markham
Yes, but against all that theory, Vance, we have certain definite facts. Now, for instance, Spottswoode left the Canary's apartment while she was still alive. He talked to her through that door. The hall boy, looking through the keyhole, saw the Canary lying on this sofa smoking a cigarette. Spottswoode then went away and spent the rest of the evening with you.
Philo Vance
True, and yet I know he committed the murder. And I've got to find out how he did it.
District Attorney Markham
I'm afraid you will, Vance, so that Jimmie can go free.
Philo Vance
Spottswoode himself was coming here to tell how it was done in order to free Jimmie. But, now, he's dead. I've got to solve it.
Bankers Review
Published for the investor
Sept. 1 1928
10c Per Copy $2 Per Year
Investors Warned Against Tipsters' Sheets
Downtown Shopping Area Versus Community Center
Danger in Decentralizing and Over-Retailing
Proper Concept of the Business Cycle
Tax Problems for Special Legislative Session
Building-Loan, Real Estate and Oil Developments
Philo Vance
I think I have the whole thing. Now, follow me closely. The Canary was lying there. Spottswoode, let us say, was standing here, making a final plea for his boy, which met but an absolute refusal.
He walked around to the head of the sofa. Suddenly, he clapped his hand over her mouth, and with his other hand, caught her necklace, and before she had a chance to cry out, he strangled her.
He then proceeded to set the stage to make it appear that the crime had been committed with robbery as a motive. He stripped her jewels from her, and placed them in his pocket. Then, he took a cigarette from that box and lit it. He laid her hand here. Placed the cigarette between her fingers, so that in case anyone should look through the keyhole of that door, there, it would appear as if she were lying here smoking. He then overturned the entire apartment to make it look as if a burglar had ransacked the place.
Now, just step over here, Markham. He came to this closet door but he couldn't open it. Skeel had locked himself in, though Spottswoode didn't know that. And Skeel, through the keyhole, saw everything that Spottswoode did. That accounts for the orderly condition of this one closet, but everything else in the apartment was ransacked. And that, Markham, was the technique of the crime itself.
District Attorney Markham
But that doesn't account for the fact that—
Philo Vance
Why, just a minute. I haven't quite finished. I want you to go out into the hall, and stand at the desk, where Spottswoode stood when he ordered his cab.
District Attorney Markham
Very well.
Record
Ahh! Ahh!
Record
Something startled me, Mr. Spottswoode, but I'm all right now.
Yes, quite sure. Run along home and come back in the morning.
Philo Vance
Do you understand now? This record was Spottswoode's alibi.
VE
"His Master's Voice" Victrola
M 5-4 Orthophonic Recording9030-B Symphony No. 5, In C Minor—Part 4 2nd Movement—Andante con moto—concluded (Beethoven, Op. 67) Royal Albert Hall Orchestra Sir Landon Ronald, Conductor (Recorded in Europe)
Victor Talking Machine Co. Camden, N.J.
VE
Philo Vance
Undoubtedly, the reason he returned here the next morning was to get it back, but he was prevented by the arrival of the officer who entered the apartment with him. The Canary was dead when the scream issued from the apartment that night. She was dead when she apparently spoke to Spottswoode through the door.
District Attorney Markham
But what clue led you to the phonograph record?
Philo Vance
It was this magazine.
Bankers Review
Published for the investor
Sept. 1 1928
10c Per Copy $2 Per Year
Investors Warned Against Tipsters' Sheets
Downtown Shopping Area Versus Community Center
Danger in Decentralizing and Over-Retailing
Proper Concept of the Business Cycle
Tax Problems for Special Legislative Session
Building-Loan, Real Estate and Oil Developments
Philo Vance
That is hardly a magazine the Canary would have read. So, I concluded that someone else must have brought it here. Then, in running through the pages, I happened to notice this. Look closely. Do you see it?
District Attorney Markham
Why, yes, the imprint of a large circle.
Philo Vance
And on the opposite page?
District Attorney Markham
Well, the same thing!
Philo Vance
Precisely, as if a disk had been pressed between the two pages. That brought to my mind the thought of a phonograph record. And, suddenly, the whole plot became clear to me. It was the only way that Spottswoode could have committed the murder, and have produced a voice in the apartment after the Canary's death.
District Attorney Markham
But, I can't understand how he could have reproduced the Canary's voice.
Philo Vance
It wasn't the Canary's voice, Markham. Spottswoode made that record himself. Probably it was his own voice, in falsetto. And, remember, it was only necessary to fool the houseboy, and through a closed door.
District Attorney Markham
Yes, I can see it all now.
Philo Vance
He played the game, shrewdly and boldly. It was Jimmie's whole life's happiness that was at stake, and Spottswoode risked his own life for his boy.
Alice LaFosse
Goodbye, Mr. Vance. You'll never know how grateful we are.
Philo Vance
Goodbye, my dear. I wish you great happiness.
Alice LaFosse
Oh, thank you.
Philo Vance
Goodbye, Jimmie. Your happiness will come.
Jimmie Spottswoode
Thank you, Mr. Vance. I...I can't say anymore...just now.
Sergeant Heath
Well, Mr. Vance.
Philo Vance
Well, Sergeant.
Sergeant Heath
I guess we put it over again.
Philo Vance
Right you are, Sergeant. Many thanks.
Sergeant Heath
Well, I'll be seeing you later. Goodbye.
Philo Vance
Goodbye, Sergeant.
The End
A Paramount Picture
This work is in the public domain in the United States because it was published before January 1, 1930.
Copyright law abroad tends to consider the following people authors of a film:
* The principal director
* The screenwriter, and/or other writers of dialogue
* The composer/lyricist (if the film is accompanied by sound)
* The cinematographer
* By extension, the authors of any works that may serve as the basis for a film's plot
The longest-living of these authors died in 1972, so this work is in the public domain in countries and areas where the copyright term is the author's life plus 52 years or less. This work may be in the public domain in countries and areas with longer native copyright terms that apply the rule of the shorter term to foreign works.
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