March 13, 2024
The Suicide; Or Nick Carter and the Lost Head, Pt. 1
In this episode of "Forward Into The Past," host JC Rede introduces the iconic detective Nick Carter and his enduring legacy in American literature and culture. The episode then delves into the beginning of a new Nick Carter story, "The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head." Mrs. Darling seeks Nick's help after her husband's apparent suicide, but as Nick investigates, he uncovers suspicions of foul play and two mysterious men connected to the case. With the assistance of Nancy Nordeck, a reformed criminal, Nick begins to unravel the truth. Join the thrilling investigation in this captivating episode.
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Transcript
WEBVTT
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Hi again, friends and welcome to another episode of Forward Into The Past.
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I'm JC Rede, your host and narrator.
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And today we're beginning a brand new story in the long and enduring case files of Nick Carter.
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This one entitled The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head.
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Sounds interesting.
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So let's get started.
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Long before Batman and Sherlock Holmes captured imaginations, a fictional detective named Nick Carter ruled the early 20th century, American literary and cultural landscape.
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Born in 1886 within the pages of dime novels, Carter's adventures quickly transcended the format, evolving into a publishing phenomenon that cemented his place as a cultural icon.
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Nick Carter's initial success, lay in his characterization.
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Unlike the brooding cerebral detectives that would later become the norm, Carter was a charismatic action oriented figure.
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He was a master of disguise, a skilled hand-to-hand combatant, and a relentless pursuer of justice.
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His adventures serialized in publications like The Nick Carter Weekly were filled with thrilling chases, daring rescues, and exotic locations offering readers an escape from their daily lives.
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The character's immense popularity led to an explosion of Nick Carter merchandise.
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Novels featuring his exploits became bestsellers, with publishers turning out hundreds of stories over several decades.
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Stage plays, films primarily in Europe, and comic books, further extended Carter's reach, solidifying his presence across various media formats.
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This transmedia approach, cemented Carter's image in the public consciousness, making him a household name.
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However, the early 20th century saw a decline in Carter's popularity.
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By the 1910s reader's tastes began to shift, favoring more complex narratives and nuanced characters.
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The simplistic formulaic nature of the earlier Nick Carter stories no longer held the same appeal.
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Additionally, the rise of new pulp heroes, like The Shadow and Doc Savage who offered more depth and intrigue, further overshadowed the once dominant detective.
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Even though it was Nick Carter who influenced both The Shadow and Doc Savage characters.
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Well, despite the decline, Nick Carter never truly faded away.
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In the 1930s, he was reinvented to cater to the changing preferences of the time he was reintroduced as a hard-boiled detective mirroring the popular style of the era.
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This revival while not as commercially successful as the earlier iteration, showcased the character's adaptability and enduring appeal.
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Nick Carter's legacy transcends his initial popularity.
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He stands as a Testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of fictional characters to capture the imagination of a generation.
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His impact on the detective genre and the broader world of popular culture is undeniable, paving the way for countless heroes who would follow in his footsteps.
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Today he remains a fascinating figure, a reminder of the ever evolving landscape of literary and cultural trends.
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And now let's pay a visit to this popular figure as we bring you Nick Carter and the last head or the suicide.
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Chapter one.
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How the end came.
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Slow down Danny, and look out for that wire said Nick Carter to his chauffeur.
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It may be a live one.
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I'm on to it, chief.
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On to it, eh?
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Don't you run onto it while I'm in the car.
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Not if it's a live one.
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You may fancy absorbing the output of an electric lighting plant.
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But not for mine, Danny, not for mine.
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I know what it would do to me.
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I've seen men electrocuted.
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Danny Maloney laughed, for it was obvious that the famous detective was jesting.
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On to it with my lamps, chief is what I meant.
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He replied.
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Say what do you mean then said Nick, with a smile.
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Precision is one of the valuable assets of a detective.
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Luckily, however, you are addressing one who can read between the lines barring those of the ambiguous letter that brought us out here.
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Can't you fathom it?
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It must be mighty blind chief, if it fools you.
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On the contrary, Danny, it is perfectly plain.
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What there is of it, said Nick, dryly.
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A woman, one Mrs.
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Myra Darling states that she is in great trouble.
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That a very devoted friend of mine has advised her to appeal to me.
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And will I favor her with a call at my earliest convenience?
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Is that all questioned Danny tersely.
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The whole business said Nick.
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Of course, the appeal coming from a woman, I cannot turn it down.
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Noblesse oblige.
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You don't know her.
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Not from a side of leather.
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I am acquainted with no Darling woman.
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Ah, suppress that smile, Danny.
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I know what you're thinking.
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But all women are not darlings far from it.
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This one might be! Said Danny, his smile spreading to a grin.
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That's neither here nor there said Nick with a laugh.
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Not being in the market, Danny, all the women look alike to me.
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Now the said, Mrs.
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Darling's trouble may be...
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ah, but we are near an answer to the momentous question.
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Yonder is the place, unless I am much mistaken.
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Stop at the driveway gate.
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I'll walk into the grounds.
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Keep your eye peeled by the way, while I'm engaged with her ladyship.
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The place referred to was out beyond Washington Heights and overlooking the Hudson.
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It was an attractive estate without being at all pretentious as were the others in the immediate locality.
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The grounds flanked a broad street in which electric lighting was being introduced.
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And from which the house stood back, some 30 yards with a well kept lawn and a few shade trees.
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In the rear were a stable and garage beyond which the land sloped down sharply toward the river.
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Nick did not wait for an answer from his chauffeur.
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He sprang from the car while speaking, then walked briskly up the driveway and approached the house, quite a large wooden dwelling of the colonial type.
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Nick mounted the broad front veranda and rang the bell.
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It was answered almost immediately by a tall, graceful woman clad in black and about 30 years of age.
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She was of medium complexion with brown hair and eyes and a finely poised head.
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Her features were regular, but her face was a strong one, rather than handsome.
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Evincing willpower.
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Intellectuality.
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And, a lofty character.
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She bowed and smiled a bit gravely saying immediately.
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You are Mr.
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Carter?
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I think.
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Yes, said Nick politely.
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I am Mrs.
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Darling.
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Walk in please and come into the library.
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I am very glad you could comply so soon with my request.
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It is very good of you.
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I happened to be at liberty this afternoon.
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Nick replied following her into the hall.
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I received your letter this morning.
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Mrs.
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Darling conducted him into a prettily furnished library and invited him to be seated.
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Taking an opposite chair, she then said gravely.
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I will take as little as possible of your valuable time.
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I will tell you with few and simple words, Mr.
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Carter, why I have sent for you.
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Cover all of the ground, Mrs.
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Darling, Nick suggested.
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My time just now is at your disposal.
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Thank you.
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She replied bowing.
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I will, in that case begin at the beginning.
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I was married eight years ago to Mr.
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Cyrus darling, a New York tobacco dealer.
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A man whom I have always supposed to had considerable means, though he has never informed me definitely.
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He owned this place, however, and we have always lived well and he has provided for me generously.
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Mr.
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Darling is not living?
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Uh, no, I will explain presently.
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Ah, continue then.
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I was nearly 20 years younger than he Mr.
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Carter, but our married life was a uniformly happy one.
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Though, not as gay and festive as he perhaps would have preferred.
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I am inclined to be domestic while he was of a volatile nature, having neither, a strong nor stable character.
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I frankly admit Mr.
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Carter, that he was subservient to my will and wishes.
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I understand you said Nick.
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I have no children.
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And I keep only two servants aside from a chauffeur whom I occasionally employ.
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Mrs.
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Darling continued.
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My husband's habits were good, as the world goes.
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And I noticed nothing unusual in his conduct.
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Until about three months ago.
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And then.
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Well, I then thought he appeared strangely reticent, at times very self-absorbed and less frank and affectionate than before.
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I asked him whether there was anything wrong, but he assured me to the contrary, though he seemed a bit irritated because I questioned him.
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Hmm.
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I follow you.
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Later Mr.
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Carter, he appeared quite despondent and I feared that his business troubled him.
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He said that my fears were groundless and that his business was never better.
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He went from bad to worse.
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He said very little at home, and remained in town evenings much more frequently than in years past, which I attributed to his seeming depression and his desire to find relief in the excitement and diversions of the city.
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Did you occasionally accompany him?
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Nick inquired.
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No very seldom.
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He did not seem inclined to have me do so.
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Hm.
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Was he addicted to drink?
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Only moderately.
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I never saw him intoxicated nor anything like it.
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Hm.
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Proceed then.
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Well, about two weeks ago, Mr.
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Carter, he decided to sell his business saying that he was sick of it and would try something else.
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I remonstrated with him telling him that he was making a mistake and that it is not easy for a man over 50 to make such changes profitably.
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Yes, that is very true, Mrs.
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Darling.
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Well, it had no effect on him, however, and he let the business go.
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She replied, sadly, shaking her head.
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During the following week, he was at home part of each day, but he spent most of the afternoons and evenings in town.
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On Tuesday one week ago yesterday.
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He appeared unusually nervous and depressed.
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I missed him soon after lunch and supposed he had gone into town.
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I had an appointment with my dentist and was absent from two o'clock until nearly six.
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When I returned home.
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Well, Mr.
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Carter, the end had come.
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What do you mean?
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Question Nick gravely.
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My husband had committed suicide or was the victim of foul play.
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Oh, I see.
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Nick drew up in his chair.
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Were you in any uncertainty at that time, Mrs.
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Darling as to the cause of his death.
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No, not at that time, Mr.
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Carter, she quickly informed him.
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I know what you have in mind that I should have called in the police immediately.
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I did not then however, nor at any time until yesterday, have even a thought of anything but suicide.
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The circumstances suggested nothing else.
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And what were the circumstances Mrs.
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Darling?
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Nick inquired.
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State them briefly.
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Well, there is very little to tell she rejoined.
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My husband was last seen alive by one of my servants.
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She saw him going out of the back door of the house and around the stable.
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And she supposed, he was going down to our boat house, which was on the riverbank and out of view from here, owing to the sharp slope of the land.
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Oh, yes, I see.
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said Nick glancing from the window.
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Soon after Mr.
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Carter, the boathouse was seen to be on fire.
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It contained a motorboat and considerable gasoline, which caused it to burn very rapidly.
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It was completely destroyed.
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In the ruins were found the remains of my husband, little more than a charred skeleton from which the flesh was almost entirely burned.
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Mrs.
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Darling paused to dry her eyes, maintaining with an effort, her outward composure.
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Appreciating her feelings, Nick waited a few moments and then inquired.
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Are you sure Mrs.
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Darling, that his death was not due to an accident?
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Oh positively.
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She replied.
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To begin with Mr.
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Carter, he left this letter on the chiffonier in my bedroom.
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You may read it.
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She took it from the library table while speaking and tendered it to the detective.
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Nick read it, the following few lines written with pen and ink.
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My dear Myra.
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Forgive me for the step I'm going to take.
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I am driven to it by feelings I cannot describe.
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I am sick and tired of the whole business of life itself.
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I am going to end it.
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Forgive and forget me.
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Cyrus.
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Hmm.
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Nick replaced the letter on the table saying considerately.
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There seems indeed to be no reasonable doubt of Mr.
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Darling's intentions.
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You recognize the writing?
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I infer.
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Oh, yes.
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Surely she replied.
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Furthermore, Mr.
00:13:38.628 --> 00:13:44.687
Carter, there were found in the ruins numerous articles that positively identify my husband's remains.
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They included the buttons on his garments, which were entirely consumed.
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Also his pocket knife, his false teeth.
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And a plain gold ring.
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His revolver was also found nearby and it is supposed that he shot himself after setting fire to the boat house, presumably to make sure that his terrible design could not miscarry.
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Who examined the articles and investigated the case?
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Asked Nick.
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Uh, Dr.
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Lyons, my physician, who is also the coroner.
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A capable man.
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Nick nodded.
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I am acquainted with him.
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And what is his opinion?
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He thinks it a case of suicide.
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He could find no evidence of anything else and is very positive in his opinion.
00:14:27.691 --> 00:14:30.181
Had your husband any money, jewelry or...
00:14:30.327 --> 00:14:36.868
No, he left those in the bedroom, his watch, diamonds, and pocketbook, also his ring of keys, Mrs.
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Darling interposed.
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Only one key was missing from the ring.
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Uh, which one was that?
00:14:43.528 --> 00:14:45.207
The key to the boat house.
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Nick did not reply for a few moments.
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He said, gazing thoughtfully at a figure in the heavy carpet.
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Superficially viewed, the circumstances stated seemed to admit of only one reasonable theory: that Mr.
00:14:59.347 --> 00:15:03.908
Cyrus Darling had indeed deliberately ended his own life.
00:15:04.508 --> 00:15:08.327
Uh, the funeral and burial were last Thursday, Mrs.
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Darling added during the brief silence on Nick's part.
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Dr.
00:15:12.288 --> 00:15:19.307
Lyons did not think the case called for any investigations beyond those he personally made, uh, nor did I at the time.
00:15:19.937 --> 00:15:20.298
He.
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One moment said, Nick, looking up.
00:15:23.017 --> 00:15:24.817
What have you since learned Mrs.
00:15:24.817 --> 00:15:26.616
Darling, that occasions your misgivings.
00:15:27.047 --> 00:15:29.057
Why do you now suspect foul play?
00:15:29.360 --> 00:15:31.640
That I think is the term you used.
00:15:32.240 --> 00:15:36.260
Well, I have two reasons for apprehending something of the kind she replied.
00:15:36.711 --> 00:15:38.811
One relates to my husband's estate.
00:15:39.291 --> 00:15:45.650
I have learned from his lawyer who has been assisting me, and in whom I have absolute confidence, that Mr.
00:15:45.650 --> 00:15:47.211
Darling left no will.
00:15:47.451 --> 00:16:09.961
That he has recently withdrawn considerable money from the bank and that his safety deposit drawer contains only a few securities worth less than$3,000! From dividends, which I know that he has been in the habit of receiving as well as from our living expenses for several years, I knew that he was worth at least a hundred thousand dollars.
00:16:10.561 --> 00:16:12.270
Is your lawyer investigating the matter?
00:16:12.870 --> 00:16:14.520
I have requested him to do so.
00:16:15.120 --> 00:16:16.711
And, uh, what is his name?
00:16:16.870 --> 00:16:18.821
Nick inquired, taking out his notebook.
00:16:19.421 --> 00:16:20.441
Henry Clayton.
00:16:20.711 --> 00:16:22.061
He has an office in town.
00:16:22.660 --> 00:16:24.581
Ah, I am acquainted with him also.
00:16:24.971 --> 00:16:26.171
said Nick, noting the name.
00:16:26.530 --> 00:16:29.321
You mentioned a second reason for your misgivings.
00:16:29.471 --> 00:16:30.130
What is that?
00:16:30.730 --> 00:16:31.650
One of my servants.
00:16:32.250 --> 00:16:32.850
What do you mean?
00:16:33.451 --> 00:16:34.770
I referred in my letter, Mr.
00:16:34.770 --> 00:16:39.091
Carter, to a very devoted friend of yours who advised me to appeal to you.
00:16:39.691 --> 00:16:39.961
Hmm.
00:16:40.020 --> 00:16:40.441
Yes.
00:16:40.441 --> 00:16:42.160
I remember said Nick wondering.
00:16:42.701 --> 00:16:45.341
A devoted friend of mine, one of your servants?
00:16:45.941 --> 00:16:50.051
I refer to my table girl, who also serves me as a maid.
00:16:50.571 --> 00:16:55.461
You have, I am very sure, no more grateful and devoted an admirer.
00:16:56.000 --> 00:16:56.780
I will call her.
00:16:57.380 --> 00:17:01.850
Nick bowed and waited, still more deeply puzzled as to the girl's identity.
00:17:02.451 --> 00:17:02.811
Mrs.
00:17:02.811 --> 00:17:05.090
Darling touched a bell on the library table.
00:17:05.691 --> 00:17:10.830
Nick glanced again from one of the windows and discovered another perplexing fact.
00:17:11.431 --> 00:17:13.980
His touring car was standing where he had left it.
00:17:14.641 --> 00:17:16.560
But his chauffeur was missing.
00:17:17.461 --> 00:17:19.411
Danny Maloney had disappeared.
00:17:20.010 --> 00:17:23.010
The quick light steps of the approaching maid sounded in the hall.
00:17:23.641 --> 00:17:28.230
Turning in that direction, just as she appeared at the open door, Nick beheld.
00:17:28.826 --> 00:17:30.537
Nancy Nordeck.
00:17:33.037 --> 00:17:33.757
Chapter two.
00:17:34.207 --> 00:17:35.946
The girl who was down.
00:17:37.547 --> 00:17:41.896
Suspicions were mingled with Nick Carter's surprise at seeing Nancy Nordeck.
00:17:42.436 --> 00:17:48.596
They were perfectly natural too under the circumstances and in view of the disclosures to which he had just listened.
00:17:49.196 --> 00:17:56.277
The presence of a girl with a criminal record in the home of a man whose death was shrouded in mystery, much more of a mystery than Mrs.
00:17:56.277 --> 00:18:02.277
Darling even imagined, though already keenly appreciated by the detective, might indeed be significant.
00:18:02.876 --> 00:18:06.987
Months had passed since Nick last saw Nancy Nordic.
00:18:07.586 --> 00:18:10.707
She had so improved in looks that he hardly recognized her.
00:18:11.346 --> 00:18:26.926
She bore little likeness to the frail girl with the pinched and haggard face who was so deeply affected by the violent death of her crook father, that she had resolved to reform, a moral awakening that Nick had by no means felt sure would be lasting.
00:18:27.527 --> 00:18:36.646
His first thought, therefore was that she might be up to her old tricks and in league with rascals to have killed Cyrus Darling to get possession of his fortune.
00:18:37.487 --> 00:18:42.767
It was not in Nick's nature to expose the girl, nevertheless, if her reformation was genuine.
00:18:43.096 --> 00:18:48.527
For he never put a block in the way of anyone who was down and striving to rise.
00:18:49.126 --> 00:18:58.517
He felt for a moment that his position might be a delicate one, but though no signs of them appeared in his face, his impressions evidently were suspected by the girl.
00:18:58.906 --> 00:19:03.616
For she approached him quickly saying respectfully yet with characteristic assurance.
00:19:04.217 --> 00:19:05.477
I know what you're thinking, Mr.
00:19:05.477 --> 00:19:05.836
Carter.
00:19:05.836 --> 00:19:08.926
And no one could blame you, but there's nothing in it, sir.
00:19:09.376 --> 00:19:12.467
I've been as straight as a string from the time you set me right.
00:19:12.616 --> 00:19:15.646
And shook hands with me, wishing me all kinds of good luck.
00:19:15.926 --> 00:19:20.007
And you couldn't think if you tried how much I now care for you and your good opinion.
00:19:20.547 --> 00:19:22.166
I have hid nothing here, sir.
00:19:22.497 --> 00:19:22.826
Mrs.
00:19:22.826 --> 00:19:27.997
Darling knows all about me and what I was, and she has been as good to me as you, sir.
00:19:28.507 --> 00:19:31.896
I'd bite a finger off before I'd go crooked again in any way.
00:19:32.497 --> 00:19:34.176
I think you can safely depend on that.
00:19:34.176 --> 00:19:34.477
Mr.
00:19:34.477 --> 00:19:35.676
Carter, said Mrs.
00:19:35.676 --> 00:19:36.997
Darling smiling, faintly.
00:19:37.596 --> 00:19:40.116
Nancy has confided her entire past to me.
00:19:40.446 --> 00:19:47.436
And in overlooking it and lending her a helping hand, I now know positively that I have made no mistake.
00:19:47.977 --> 00:19:50.196
She is a good girl and a capable one.
00:19:50.797 --> 00:19:57.997
There was a suspicious moisture in Nancy's brown eyes, then fixed upon the strong kindly face of her mistress.
00:19:58.626 --> 00:20:04.207
She colored deeply too when Nick extended his hand and said, heartily, come here, Nancy.
00:20:04.596 --> 00:20:05.646
Let's shake again.
00:20:06.247 --> 00:20:08.017
I am more than glad to hear this.
00:20:08.136 --> 00:20:10.267
And to know that you are on the right track.
00:20:10.807 --> 00:20:13.866
Stick to it, my girl, as I now feel sure you will.
00:20:14.467 --> 00:20:15.757
You may be sure that I will.
00:20:15.757 --> 00:20:16.027
Mr.
00:20:16.027 --> 00:20:18.636
Carter said Nancy eagerly shaking his hand.
00:20:19.237 --> 00:20:21.517
Now let's proceed with this matter.
00:20:21.906 --> 00:20:23.346
Nick said more seriously.
00:20:23.946 --> 00:20:24.277
Mrs.
00:20:24.277 --> 00:20:27.277
Darling tells me that you advised her to appeal to me.
00:20:27.876 --> 00:20:28.836
So I did Mr.
00:20:28.836 --> 00:20:30.277
Carter, Nancy replied.
00:20:30.876 --> 00:20:33.307
She will answer any questions you care to ask her.
00:20:33.336 --> 00:20:33.696
Mrs.
00:20:33.696 --> 00:20:34.326
Darling, put in.
00:20:34.926 --> 00:20:35.707
Fine fine.
00:20:36.547 --> 00:20:37.656
To begin with then.
00:20:38.257 --> 00:20:40.027
What do you know about the case?
00:20:40.126 --> 00:20:40.666
Said Nick.
00:20:41.267 --> 00:20:43.186
Was it you who last saw Mr.
00:20:43.217 --> 00:20:43.997
Darling alive?
00:20:44.596 --> 00:20:45.017
Yes, sir.
00:20:45.320 --> 00:20:48.201
I saw him leaving the house and going down back of the stable.
00:20:48.800 --> 00:20:50.480
Did you notice anything unusual?
00:20:50.750 --> 00:20:52.461
Did he appear excited or.
00:20:52.713 --> 00:20:55.163
No, sir, not in the least, put in Nancy.
00:20:55.703 --> 00:20:57.804
I didn't reckon anything was wrong coming off.
00:20:58.223 --> 00:21:02.663
I didn't get wise at all until the mistress told me that most of the master's money is missing.
00:21:03.263 --> 00:21:04.473
Wise to what Nancy?
00:21:05.074 --> 00:21:08.614
Uh, that he was killed and robbed maybe instead of putting out his own light.
00:21:09.213 --> 00:21:10.443
Why did you suspect that?
00:21:11.084 --> 00:21:13.743
Only because of two guys he has been friendly with lately.
00:21:14.314 --> 00:21:15.394
They've been here to see him.
00:21:15.604 --> 00:21:17.403
One of them, quite a number of times.
00:21:18.003 --> 00:21:18.544
Two men.
00:21:19.144 --> 00:21:19.594
Yes, sir.
00:21:20.193 --> 00:21:20.854
Do you know them?
00:21:21.017 --> 00:21:22.477
Nick inquired turning to Mrs.
00:21:22.477 --> 00:21:22.866
Darling.
00:21:23.467 --> 00:21:24.906
Hardly more than by name.
00:21:25.027 --> 00:21:25.686
She replied.
00:21:25.926 --> 00:21:29.047
My husband introduced me to one of them named Phillip Floyd.
00:21:29.346 --> 00:21:31.207
Who has called several times to see him.
00:21:31.455 --> 00:21:33.286
I have met the other only once.
00:21:33.885 --> 00:21:34.996
And what is his name?
00:21:35.162 --> 00:21:35.821
asked Nick.
00:21:35.929 --> 00:21:37.848
Proceeding to write them in his notebook.
00:21:38.449 --> 00:21:39.378
Ralph Sheldon.
00:21:40.009 --> 00:21:42.048
He called here a few days ago with Mr.
00:21:42.048 --> 00:21:43.439
Floyd who introduced me to him.
00:21:44.068 --> 00:21:47.969
My husband was absent at the time and they remained only a few minutes.
00:21:48.568 --> 00:21:50.788
That is the only time I ever saw Mr.
00:21:50.788 --> 00:21:53.878
Sheldon, though my husband had frequently mentioned him.
00:21:54.479 --> 00:21:56.009
Are they old friends of his?
00:21:56.608 --> 00:21:57.538
Quite the contrary.
00:21:57.808 --> 00:21:59.909
I never heard of them until about a month ago.
00:22:00.509 --> 00:22:02.939
Had they any business relations with your husband?
00:22:03.538 --> 00:22:04.409
I cannot say.
00:22:05.009 --> 00:22:06.358
Do you know anything about them?
00:22:06.959 --> 00:22:08.519
No more than I have told you.
00:22:08.808 --> 00:22:09.278
Said, Mrs.
00:22:09.298 --> 00:22:09.628
Darling.
00:22:10.058 --> 00:22:12.368
My husband referred to them only as friends.
00:22:12.729 --> 00:22:14.138
And he appeared to think well of them.
00:22:14.739 --> 00:22:16.179
Do you know where they live?
00:22:16.939 --> 00:22:18.288
Um, I do not.
00:22:18.888 --> 00:22:21.798
Both were here you say a few days before he died.
00:22:22.398 --> 00:22:23.449
The day before, Mr.
00:22:23.449 --> 00:22:25.848
Carter, and both attended his funeral.
00:22:26.449 --> 00:22:30.919
Did they say why they wanted to see him on the day preceding his death?
00:22:31.519 --> 00:22:32.239
They did not.
00:22:32.778 --> 00:22:36.499
I inferred from their remarks, however that it was only a friendly call.
00:22:37.098 --> 00:22:38.959
Are they men of his own age?
00:22:39.558 --> 00:22:40.759
I would say that Mr.
00:22:40.759 --> 00:22:42.378
Sheldon is nearly as old.
00:22:42.618 --> 00:22:44.179
He appears to be in the forties.
00:22:44.568 --> 00:22:44.929
Mr.
00:22:44.929 --> 00:22:46.999
Floyd, however is not over 30.
00:22:47.598 --> 00:22:49.098
Are they prepossessing men.
00:22:49.699 --> 00:22:51.409
Uh, yes in a way.
00:22:51.598 --> 00:22:54.028
Though I did not quite fancy them said Mrs.
00:22:54.028 --> 00:22:54.419
Darling.
00:22:54.669 --> 00:22:55.598
As for Nancy.
00:22:55.959 --> 00:22:58.028
Oh, well, she may speak for herself.
00:22:58.249 --> 00:23:02.568
It was partly her impression of them that led me to take her advice and appeal to you.
00:23:03.169 --> 00:23:04.189
On the dead, Mr.
00:23:04.189 --> 00:23:08.358
Carter, I would not trust either of them as far as I could throw a bull by the tail.
00:23:08.526 --> 00:23:11.195
Nancy bluntly declared in characteristic terms.
00:23:11.538 --> 00:23:14.118
You know me, sir, I am not easily fooled.
00:23:14.628 --> 00:23:17.959
I can read a man dead right nine times out of 10, Mr.
00:23:17.959 --> 00:23:20.209
Carter, the minute I set my eyes on'em.
00:23:20.808 --> 00:23:22.159
You did not fancy them then.
00:23:22.759 --> 00:23:23.929
Not so you'd notice it.
00:23:24.092 --> 00:23:24.761
said Nancy.
00:23:25.402 --> 00:23:27.711
I wouldn't say too much against the Sheldon man.
00:23:27.711 --> 00:23:27.981
Mr.
00:23:27.981 --> 00:23:30.352
Carter for I've seen him only twice.
00:23:30.652 --> 00:23:33.382
I saw him at the funeral and I let him in with Mr.
00:23:33.382 --> 00:23:34.731
Floyd a few days before.
00:23:35.128 --> 00:23:38.759
He's all right maybe though I'd hate to back much on it.
00:23:39.358 --> 00:23:40.199
And what about Mr.
00:23:40.199 --> 00:23:40.648
Floyd?
00:23:40.868 --> 00:23:43.118
Why do you distrust him so seriously?
00:23:43.719 --> 00:23:46.148
I have more than one reason for that hunch.
00:23:46.306 --> 00:23:47.905
Said Nancy inelegantly.
00:23:48.506 --> 00:23:49.465
For a starter, Mr.
00:23:49.496 --> 00:23:49.915
Carter.
00:23:50.276 --> 00:23:51.746
I've seen that guy before.
00:23:52.346 --> 00:23:52.885
Floyd?
00:23:53.486 --> 00:23:54.086
Yes, sir.
00:23:54.685 --> 00:23:56.036
When and where Nancy.
00:23:56.635 --> 00:23:59.105
Give it up on the dead, sir, I can't tell.
00:23:59.705 --> 00:24:00.875
But you feel sure of it.
00:24:01.476 --> 00:24:04.011
Surest thing you know, Said Nancy confidently.
00:24:04.652 --> 00:24:06.241
I'd stake my bundle on it, Mr.
00:24:06.271 --> 00:24:09.602
Carter, and you know what that means, knowing what I was.
00:24:09.876 --> 00:24:13.207
Any man I knew in the past was most likely a crook.
00:24:13.807 --> 00:24:15.406
Nick did not contradict her.
00:24:16.007 --> 00:24:18.406
Besides he knew me, sir, the first time.
00:24:18.856 --> 00:24:19.906
I let him in here.
00:24:20.207 --> 00:24:21.017
Nancy went on.
00:24:21.497 --> 00:24:22.936
I was wise to that all right.
00:24:23.057 --> 00:24:25.487
But it wasn't for me to meddle with the masters affairs.
00:24:25.727 --> 00:24:27.557
So I kept my trap closed.
00:24:28.156 --> 00:24:30.136
Why did you think Floyd recognized you.
00:24:30.737 --> 00:24:32.717
I saw his lamps light up the incident.
00:24:32.717 --> 00:24:33.557
They lit on me.
00:24:33.722 --> 00:24:35.913
Nancy explained it in characteristic terms.
00:24:36.843 --> 00:24:39.303
He looked at me like he saw a ghost.
00:24:39.903 --> 00:24:41.042
Did he say anything to you?
00:24:41.673 --> 00:24:43.173
No, not a word, Mr.
00:24:43.173 --> 00:24:46.093
Carter, but no man with eyes like his is on the level.
00:24:46.512 --> 00:24:47.742
I know what I'm saying.
00:24:47.923 --> 00:24:51.252
It's like breaking sticks for me to pick out a crook from a bunch of men.
00:24:51.532 --> 00:24:53.032
Floyd is one Mr.
00:24:53.032 --> 00:24:54.863
Carter, if ever there was one.
00:24:55.133 --> 00:24:57.262
And that's why I got the mistress to send for you.
00:24:57.752 --> 00:25:00.123
I don't forget what you did in that Maybrick case.
00:25:00.423 --> 00:25:02.073
And what you did for me sir never.
00:25:02.673 --> 00:25:03.932
I'm quite sure of it, Nancy.
00:25:04.116 --> 00:25:04.777
Nick replied.
00:25:05.586 --> 00:25:07.896
You can tell me no more about the two men I infer.
00:25:08.497 --> 00:25:09.126
No, sir.
00:25:09.727 --> 00:25:10.426
That is all, then.
00:25:11.497 --> 00:25:13.386
I will look deeper into this matter, Mrs.
00:25:13.416 --> 00:25:16.176
Darling, if you wish me to do so, under one condition.
00:25:16.777 --> 00:25:19.297
Oh, any conditions you see fit to impose Mr.
00:25:19.326 --> 00:25:19.717
Carter.
00:25:19.859 --> 00:25:21.029
She replied gratefully.
00:25:21.630 --> 00:25:27.990
You must leave the case entirely to me, aside from the instructions you already have given your lawyer and Dr.
00:25:27.990 --> 00:25:28.500
Lyons.
00:25:29.069 --> 00:25:32.759
I will see and inform both of them, of our arrangements.
00:25:33.359 --> 00:25:33.839
Very well.
00:25:34.289 --> 00:25:35.369
I leave it all to you.
00:25:35.970 --> 00:25:38.160
And say nothing about it to others.
00:25:38.279 --> 00:25:41.289
Nick added, there must be no publicity at present.
00:25:41.890 --> 00:25:43.660
I am more than anxious to avoid it.
00:25:43.740 --> 00:25:44.039
Mrs.
00:25:44.039 --> 00:25:44.880
Darling assured him.
00:25:45.529 --> 00:25:47.549
Nick arose and took his hat from the table.
00:25:48.150 --> 00:25:50.430
I'm going to have a look at the ruins of the boat house.
00:25:50.490 --> 00:25:52.529
He said, if you will show me the way.
00:25:52.702 --> 00:25:53.903
I will send Nancy with you.
00:25:54.502 --> 00:25:55.702
I prefer to go alone.
00:25:55.859 --> 00:25:56.519
Nick objected.
00:25:56.873 --> 00:25:58.883
I will return in a very few minutes.
00:25:59.482 --> 00:26:03.712
He left the house by the rear door, passing around the stable and down the riverbank.
00:26:04.383 --> 00:26:09.722
All that remained at the boat house and its contents was a heap of charred black ruins.
00:26:10.502 --> 00:26:16.053
The ground nearby was covered with footprints of many persons who had visited the tragic scene.
00:26:16.413 --> 00:26:19.173
But none of them were of material significance.
00:26:20.343 --> 00:26:37.972
Nick wanted only to view the surroundings, however, and he saw with a glance that the spot was so shut in by the hill in the rear and the trees on either side that knaves selecting it for the murder of Darling, if such was his fate, would have incurred only chance observation by persons on the river.
00:26:38.303 --> 00:26:41.873
Against which effective precautions could easily have been taken.
00:26:43.222 --> 00:26:47.363
Scarce 10 minutes had passed when Nick returned and rejoined Mrs.
00:26:47.393 --> 00:26:48.413
Darling in the library.
00:26:49.133 --> 00:26:55.942
He then obtained from her a description of Floyd and Sheldon, the only two persons then seeming to invite suspicion.
00:26:56.452 --> 00:26:59.542
And he also asked to see a photograph of her husband.
00:27:00.143 --> 00:27:01.913
I know of only one in existence.
00:27:01.942 --> 00:27:02.242
Mr.
00:27:02.242 --> 00:27:03.623
Carter, she replied.
00:27:04.222 --> 00:27:06.472
That was taken the year after our marriage.
00:27:07.012 --> 00:27:08.863
It is still a very good likeness of him.
00:27:09.323 --> 00:27:10.462
It is in our album.
00:27:10.823 --> 00:27:11.992
I will get it for you.
00:27:12.593 --> 00:27:15.682
She brought the volume and opened it on the library table.
00:27:16.133 --> 00:27:17.363
Only to search it vainly.
00:27:17.962 --> 00:27:19.432
The photograph of Mr.
00:27:19.432 --> 00:27:20.363
Cyrus Darling.
00:27:20.903 --> 00:27:22.012
Had disappeared.
00:27:24.012 --> 00:27:26.053
Well, that took an interesting turn.
00:27:26.692 --> 00:27:33.772
First off a massive thank you for joining me on this journey through time visiting New York city in the early 20th century.
00:27:34.282 --> 00:27:36.232
But the adventure doesn't have to stop here.
00:27:36.782 --> 00:27:41.462
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00:27:46.202 --> 00:27:50.762
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00:28:10.153 --> 00:28:13.722
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But there's lots of links to the merch store and, uh, wow.
00:28:18.222 --> 00:28:19.603
I've started rambling again.
00:28:20.593 --> 00:28:21.532
Okay, friends.
00:28:21.853 --> 00:28:22.962
Until next time.
00:28:23.413 --> 00:28:24.343
Thanks for listening.
00:28:24.613 --> 00:28:28.992
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
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Bye for now.
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Hi again, friends and welcome to another episode of Forward Into The Past.
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I'm JC Rede, your host and narrator.
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And today we're beginning a brand new story in the long and enduring case files of Nick Carter.
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This one entitled The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head.
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Sounds interesting.
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So let's get started.
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Long before Batman and Sherlock Holmes captured imaginations, a fictional detective named Nick Carter ruled the early 20th century, American literary and cultural landscape.
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Born in 1886 within the pages of dime novels, Carter's adventures quickly transcended the format, evolving into a publishing phenomenon that cemented his place as a cultural icon.
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Nick Carter's initial success, lay in his characterization.
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Unlike the brooding cerebral detectives that would later become the norm, Carter was a charismatic action oriented figure.
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He was a master of disguise, a skilled hand-to-hand combatant, and a relentless pursuer of justice.
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His adventures serialized in publications like The Nick Carter Weekly were filled with thrilling chases, daring rescues, and exotic locations offering readers an escape from their daily lives.
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The character's immense popularity led to an explosion of Nick Carter merchandise.
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Novels featuring his exploits became bestsellers, with publishers turning out hundreds of stories over several decades.
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Stage plays, films primarily in Europe, and comic books, further extended Carter's reach, solidifying his presence across various media formats.
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This transmedia approach, cemented Carter's image in the public consciousness, making him a household name.
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However, the early 20th century saw a decline in Carter's popularity.
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By the 1910s reader's tastes began to shift, favoring more complex narratives and nuanced characters.
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The simplistic formulaic nature of the earlier Nick Carter stories no longer held the same appeal.
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Additionally, the rise of new pulp heroes, like The Shadow and Doc Savage who offered more depth and intrigue, further overshadowed the once dominant detective.
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Even though it was Nick Carter who influenced both The Shadow and Doc Savage characters.
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Well, despite the decline, Nick Carter never truly faded away.
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In the 1930s, he was reinvented to cater to the changing preferences of the time he was reintroduced as a hard-boiled detective mirroring the popular style of the era.
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This revival while not as commercially successful as the earlier iteration, showcased the character's adaptability and enduring appeal.
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Nick Carter's legacy transcends his initial popularity.
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He stands as a Testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of fictional characters to capture the imagination of a generation.
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His impact on the detective genre and the broader world of popular culture is undeniable, paving the way for countless heroes who would follow in his footsteps.
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Today he remains a fascinating figure, a reminder of the ever evolving landscape of literary and cultural trends.
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And now let's pay a visit to this popular figure as we bring you Nick Carter and the last head or the suicide.
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Chapter one.
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How the end came.
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Slow down Danny, and look out for that wire said Nick Carter to his chauffeur.
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It may be a live one.
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I'm on to it, chief.
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On to it, eh?
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Don't you run onto it while I'm in the car.
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Not if it's a live one.
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You may fancy absorbing the output of an electric lighting plant.
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But not for mine, Danny, not for mine.
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I know what it would do to me.
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I've seen men electrocuted.
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Danny Maloney laughed, for it was obvious that the famous detective was jesting.
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On to it with my lamps, chief is what I meant.
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He replied.
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Say what do you mean then said Nick, with a smile.
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Precision is one of the valuable assets of a detective.
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Luckily, however, you are addressing one who can read between the lines barring those of the ambiguous letter that brought us out here.
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Can't you fathom it?
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It must be mighty blind chief, if it fools you.
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On the contrary, Danny, it is perfectly plain.
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What there is of it, said Nick, dryly.
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A woman, one Mrs.
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Myra Darling states that she is in great trouble.
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That a very devoted friend of mine has advised her to appeal to me.
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And will I favor her with a call at my earliest convenience?
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Is that all questioned Danny tersely.
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The whole business said Nick.
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Of course, the appeal coming from a woman, I cannot turn it down.
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Noblesse oblige.
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You don't know her.
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Not from a side of leather.
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I am acquainted with no Darling woman.
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Ah, suppress that smile, Danny.
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I know what you're thinking.
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But all women are not darlings far from it.
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This one might be! Said Danny, his smile spreading to a grin.
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That's neither here nor there said Nick with a laugh.
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Not being in the market, Danny, all the women look alike to me.
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Now the said, Mrs.
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Darling's trouble may be...
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ah, but we are near an answer to the momentous question.
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Yonder is the place, unless I am much mistaken.
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Stop at the driveway gate.
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I'll walk into the grounds.
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Keep your eye peeled by the way, while I'm engaged with her ladyship.
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The place referred to was out beyond Washington Heights and overlooking the Hudson.
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It was an attractive estate without being at all pretentious as were the others in the immediate locality.
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The grounds flanked a broad street in which electric lighting was being introduced.
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And from which the house stood back, some 30 yards with a well kept lawn and a few shade trees.
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In the rear were a stable and garage beyond which the land sloped down sharply toward the river.
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Nick did not wait for an answer from his chauffeur.
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He sprang from the car while speaking, then walked briskly up the driveway and approached the house, quite a large wooden dwelling of the colonial type.
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Nick mounted the broad front veranda and rang the bell.
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It was answered almost immediately by a tall, graceful woman clad in black and about 30 years of age.
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She was of medium complexion with brown hair and eyes and a finely poised head.
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Her features were regular, but her face was a strong one, rather than handsome.
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Evincing willpower.
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Intellectuality.
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And, a lofty character.
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She bowed and smiled a bit gravely saying immediately.
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You are Mr.
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Carter?
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I think.
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Yes, said Nick politely.
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I am Mrs.
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Darling.
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Walk in please and come into the library.
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I am very glad you could comply so soon with my request.
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It is very good of you.
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I happened to be at liberty this afternoon.
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Nick replied following her into the hall.
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I received your letter this morning.
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Mrs.
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Darling conducted him into a prettily furnished library and invited him to be seated.
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Taking an opposite chair, she then said gravely.
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I will take as little as possible of your valuable time.
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I will tell you with few and simple words, Mr.
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Carter, why I have sent for you.
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Cover all of the ground, Mrs.
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Darling, Nick suggested.
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My time just now is at your disposal.
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Thank you.
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She replied bowing.
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I will, in that case begin at the beginning.
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I was married eight years ago to Mr.
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Cyrus darling, a New York tobacco dealer.
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A man whom I have always supposed to had considerable means, though he has never informed me definitely.
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He owned this place, however, and we have always lived well and he has provided for me generously.
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Mr.
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Darling is not living?
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Uh, no, I will explain presently.
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Ah, continue then.
00:08:21.358 --> 00:08:24.028
I was nearly 20 years younger than he Mr.
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Carter, but our married life was a uniformly happy one.
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Though, not as gay and festive as he perhaps would have preferred.
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I am inclined to be domestic while he was of a volatile nature, having neither, a strong nor stable character.
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I frankly admit Mr.
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Carter, that he was subservient to my will and wishes.
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I understand you said Nick.
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I have no children.
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And I keep only two servants aside from a chauffeur whom I occasionally employ.
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Mrs.
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Darling continued.
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My husband's habits were good, as the world goes.
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And I noticed nothing unusual in his conduct.
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Until about three months ago.
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And then.
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Well, I then thought he appeared strangely reticent, at times very self-absorbed and less frank and affectionate than before.
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I asked him whether there was anything wrong, but he assured me to the contrary, though he seemed a bit irritated because I questioned him.
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Hmm.
00:09:23.477 --> 00:09:24.168
I follow you.
00:09:24.768 --> 00:09:25.488
Later Mr.
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Carter, he appeared quite despondent and I feared that his business troubled him.
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He said that my fears were groundless and that his business was never better.
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He went from bad to worse.
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He said very little at home, and remained in town evenings much more frequently than in years past, which I attributed to his seeming depression and his desire to find relief in the excitement and diversions of the city.
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Did you occasionally accompany him?
00:09:53.717 --> 00:09:54.467
Nick inquired.
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No very seldom.
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He did not seem inclined to have me do so.
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Hm.
00:10:01.077 --> 00:10:02.307
Was he addicted to drink?
00:10:02.908 --> 00:10:03.778
Only moderately.
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I never saw him intoxicated nor anything like it.
00:10:07.477 --> 00:10:07.687
Hm.
00:10:08.197 --> 00:10:08.918
Proceed then.
00:10:09.518 --> 00:10:11.288
Well, about two weeks ago, Mr.
00:10:11.288 --> 00:10:16.778
Carter, he decided to sell his business saying that he was sick of it and would try something else.
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I remonstrated with him telling him that he was making a mistake and that it is not easy for a man over 50 to make such changes profitably.
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Yes, that is very true, Mrs.
00:10:28.648 --> 00:10:28.988
Darling.
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Well, it had no effect on him, however, and he let the business go.
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She replied, sadly, shaking her head.
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During the following week, he was at home part of each day, but he spent most of the afternoons and evenings in town.
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On Tuesday one week ago yesterday.
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He appeared unusually nervous and depressed.
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I missed him soon after lunch and supposed he had gone into town.
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I had an appointment with my dentist and was absent from two o'clock until nearly six.
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When I returned home.
00:11:02.207 --> 00:11:03.048
Well, Mr.
00:11:03.048 --> 00:11:04.398
Carter, the end had come.
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What do you mean?
00:11:06.138 --> 00:11:07.457
Question Nick gravely.
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My husband had committed suicide or was the victim of foul play.
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Oh, I see.
00:11:15.018 --> 00:11:16.158
Nick drew up in his chair.
00:11:16.977 --> 00:11:19.868
Were you in any uncertainty at that time, Mrs.
00:11:19.888 --> 00:11:21.508
Darling as to the cause of his death.
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No, not at that time, Mr.
00:11:23.774 --> 00:11:25.604
Carter, she quickly informed him.
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I know what you have in mind that I should have called in the police immediately.
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I did not then however, nor at any time until yesterday, have even a thought of anything but suicide.
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The circumstances suggested nothing else.
00:11:41.114 --> 00:11:43.484
And what were the circumstances Mrs.
00:11:43.484 --> 00:11:43.874
Darling?
00:11:44.020 --> 00:11:44.770
Nick inquired.
00:11:45.280 --> 00:11:46.120
State them briefly.
00:11:46.847 --> 00:11:49.937
Well, there is very little to tell she rejoined.
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My husband was last seen alive by one of my servants.
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She saw him going out of the back door of the house and around the stable.
00:11:59.177 --> 00:12:06.408
And she supposed, he was going down to our boat house, which was on the riverbank and out of view from here, owing to the sharp slope of the land.
00:12:07.008 --> 00:12:08.148
Oh, yes, I see.
00:12:08.567 --> 00:12:10.368
said Nick glancing from the window.
00:12:10.967 --> 00:12:12.138
Soon after Mr.
00:12:12.138 --> 00:12:15.197
Carter, the boathouse was seen to be on fire.
00:12:15.798 --> 00:12:21.107
It contained a motorboat and considerable gasoline, which caused it to burn very rapidly.
00:12:21.498 --> 00:12:23.628
It was completely destroyed.
00:12:24.317 --> 00:12:32.658
In the ruins were found the remains of my husband, little more than a charred skeleton from which the flesh was almost entirely burned.
00:12:33.258 --> 00:12:33.587
Mrs.
00:12:33.587 --> 00:12:38.548
Darling paused to dry her eyes, maintaining with an effort, her outward composure.
00:12:39.327 --> 00:12:43.528
Appreciating her feelings, Nick waited a few moments and then inquired.
00:12:44.128 --> 00:12:45.207
Are you sure Mrs.
00:12:45.207 --> 00:12:48.477
Darling, that his death was not due to an accident?
00:12:49.738 --> 00:12:50.998
Oh positively.
00:12:51.118 --> 00:12:51.898
She replied.
00:12:52.437 --> 00:12:53.337
To begin with Mr.
00:12:53.337 --> 00:12:56.668
Carter, he left this letter on the chiffonier in my bedroom.
00:12:57.238 --> 00:12:57.898
You may read it.
00:12:58.498 --> 00:13:02.668
She took it from the library table while speaking and tendered it to the detective.
00:13:03.124 --> 00:13:06.423
Nick read it, the following few lines written with pen and ink.
00:13:07.024 --> 00:13:08.073
My dear Myra.
00:13:08.583 --> 00:13:10.563
Forgive me for the step I'm going to take.
00:13:11.163 --> 00:13:14.043
I am driven to it by feelings I cannot describe.
00:13:14.583 --> 00:13:17.854
I am sick and tired of the whole business of life itself.
00:13:18.274 --> 00:13:19.714
I am going to end it.
00:13:20.224 --> 00:13:21.754
Forgive and forget me.
00:13:22.264 --> 00:13:22.984
Cyrus.
00:13:23.884 --> 00:13:24.124
Hmm.
00:13:24.724 --> 00:13:27.573
Nick replaced the letter on the table saying considerately.
00:13:27.868 --> 00:13:30.648
There seems indeed to be no reasonable doubt of Mr.
00:13:30.648 --> 00:13:31.697
Darling's intentions.
00:13:32.508 --> 00:13:34.278
You recognize the writing?
00:13:34.278 --> 00:13:34.847
I infer.
00:13:35.447 --> 00:13:35.957
Oh, yes.
00:13:35.988 --> 00:13:37.337
Surely she replied.
00:13:37.668 --> 00:13:38.628
Furthermore, Mr.
00:13:38.628 --> 00:13:44.687
Carter, there were found in the ruins numerous articles that positively identify my husband's remains.
00:13:45.107 --> 00:13:48.977
They included the buttons on his garments, which were entirely consumed.
00:13:49.368 --> 00:13:52.067
Also his pocket knife, his false teeth.
00:13:52.398 --> 00:13:53.957
And a plain gold ring.
00:13:54.474 --> 00:14:06.024
His revolver was also found nearby and it is supposed that he shot himself after setting fire to the boat house, presumably to make sure that his terrible design could not miscarry.
00:14:06.624 --> 00:14:09.203
Who examined the articles and investigated the case?
00:14:09.400 --> 00:14:10.270
Asked Nick.
00:14:10.821 --> 00:14:11.660
Uh, Dr.
00:14:11.660 --> 00:14:14.431
Lyons, my physician, who is also the coroner.
00:14:15.030 --> 00:14:15.900
A capable man.
00:14:16.091 --> 00:14:16.721
Nick nodded.
00:14:17.020 --> 00:14:18.071
I am acquainted with him.
00:14:18.640 --> 00:14:19.961
And what is his opinion?
00:14:20.610 --> 00:14:22.201
He thinks it a case of suicide.
00:14:22.561 --> 00:14:27.091
He could find no evidence of anything else and is very positive in his opinion.
00:14:27.691 --> 00:14:30.181
Had your husband any money, jewelry or...
00:14:30.327 --> 00:14:36.868
No, he left those in the bedroom, his watch, diamonds, and pocketbook, also his ring of keys, Mrs.
00:14:36.918 --> 00:14:38.008
Darling interposed.
00:14:38.638 --> 00:14:41.008
Only one key was missing from the ring.
00:14:41.607 --> 00:14:42.927
Uh, which one was that?
00:14:43.528 --> 00:14:45.207
The key to the boat house.
00:14:45.807 --> 00:14:47.967
Nick did not reply for a few moments.
00:14:48.238 --> 00:14:51.418
He said, gazing thoughtfully at a figure in the heavy carpet.
00:14:52.057 --> 00:14:59.347
Superficially viewed, the circumstances stated seemed to admit of only one reasonable theory: that Mr.
00:14:59.347 --> 00:15:03.908
Cyrus Darling had indeed deliberately ended his own life.
00:15:04.508 --> 00:15:08.327
Uh, the funeral and burial were last Thursday, Mrs.
00:15:08.327 --> 00:15:11.268
Darling added during the brief silence on Nick's part.
00:15:11.868 --> 00:15:12.288
Dr.
00:15:12.288 --> 00:15:19.307
Lyons did not think the case called for any investigations beyond those he personally made, uh, nor did I at the time.
00:15:19.937 --> 00:15:20.298
He.
00:15:20.477 --> 00:15:22.417
One moment said, Nick, looking up.
00:15:23.017 --> 00:15:24.817
What have you since learned Mrs.
00:15:24.817 --> 00:15:26.616
Darling, that occasions your misgivings.
00:15:27.047 --> 00:15:29.057
Why do you now suspect foul play?
00:15:29.360 --> 00:15:31.640
That I think is the term you used.
00:15:32.240 --> 00:15:36.260
Well, I have two reasons for apprehending something of the kind she replied.
00:15:36.711 --> 00:15:38.811
One relates to my husband's estate.
00:15:39.291 --> 00:15:45.650
I have learned from his lawyer who has been assisting me, and in whom I have absolute confidence, that Mr.
00:15:45.650 --> 00:15:47.211
Darling left no will.
00:15:47.451 --> 00:16:09.961
That he has recently withdrawn considerable money from the bank and that his safety deposit drawer contains only a few securities worth less than$3,000! From dividends, which I know that he has been in the habit of receiving as well as from our living expenses for several years, I knew that he was worth at least a hundred thousand dollars.
00:16:10.561 --> 00:16:12.270
Is your lawyer investigating the matter?
00:16:12.870 --> 00:16:14.520
I have requested him to do so.
00:16:15.120 --> 00:16:16.711
And, uh, what is his name?
00:16:16.870 --> 00:16:18.821
Nick inquired, taking out his notebook.
00:16:19.421 --> 00:16:20.441
Henry Clayton.
00:16:20.711 --> 00:16:22.061
He has an office in town.
00:16:22.660 --> 00:16:24.581
Ah, I am acquainted with him also.
00:16:24.971 --> 00:16:26.171
said Nick, noting the name.
00:16:26.530 --> 00:16:29.321
You mentioned a second reason for your misgivings.
00:16:29.471 --> 00:16:30.130
What is that?
00:16:30.730 --> 00:16:31.650
One of my servants.
00:16:32.250 --> 00:16:32.850
What do you mean?
00:16:33.451 --> 00:16:34.770
I referred in my letter, Mr.
00:16:34.770 --> 00:16:39.091
Carter, to a very devoted friend of yours who advised me to appeal to you.
00:16:39.691 --> 00:16:39.961
Hmm.
00:16:40.020 --> 00:16:40.441
Yes.
00:16:40.441 --> 00:16:42.160
I remember said Nick wondering.
00:16:42.701 --> 00:16:45.341
A devoted friend of mine, one of your servants?
00:16:45.941 --> 00:16:50.051
I refer to my table girl, who also serves me as a maid.
00:16:50.571 --> 00:16:55.461
You have, I am very sure, no more grateful and devoted an admirer.
00:16:56.000 --> 00:16:56.780
I will call her.
00:16:57.380 --> 00:17:01.850
Nick bowed and waited, still more deeply puzzled as to the girl's identity.
00:17:02.451 --> 00:17:02.811
Mrs.
00:17:02.811 --> 00:17:05.090
Darling touched a bell on the library table.
00:17:05.691 --> 00:17:10.830
Nick glanced again from one of the windows and discovered another perplexing fact.
00:17:11.431 --> 00:17:13.980
His touring car was standing where he had left it.
00:17:14.641 --> 00:17:16.560
But his chauffeur was missing.
00:17:17.461 --> 00:17:19.411
Danny Maloney had disappeared.
00:17:20.010 --> 00:17:23.010
The quick light steps of the approaching maid sounded in the hall.
00:17:23.641 --> 00:17:28.230
Turning in that direction, just as she appeared at the open door, Nick beheld.
00:17:28.826 --> 00:17:30.537
Nancy Nordeck.
00:17:33.037 --> 00:17:33.757
Chapter two.
00:17:34.207 --> 00:17:35.946
The girl who was down.
00:17:37.547 --> 00:17:41.896
Suspicions were mingled with Nick Carter's surprise at seeing Nancy Nordeck.
00:17:42.436 --> 00:17:48.596
They were perfectly natural too under the circumstances and in view of the disclosures to which he had just listened.
00:17:49.196 --> 00:17:56.277
The presence of a girl with a criminal record in the home of a man whose death was shrouded in mystery, much more of a mystery than Mrs.
00:17:56.277 --> 00:18:02.277
Darling even imagined, though already keenly appreciated by the detective, might indeed be significant.
00:18:02.876 --> 00:18:06.987
Months had passed since Nick last saw Nancy Nordic.
00:18:07.586 --> 00:18:10.707
She had so improved in looks that he hardly recognized her.
00:18:11.346 --> 00:18:26.926
She bore little likeness to the frail girl with the pinched and haggard face who was so deeply affected by the violent death of her crook father, that she had resolved to reform, a moral awakening that Nick had by no means felt sure would be lasting.
00:18:27.527 --> 00:18:36.646
His first thought, therefore was that she might be up to her old tricks and in league with rascals to have killed Cyrus Darling to get possession of his fortune.
00:18:37.487 --> 00:18:42.767
It was not in Nick's nature to expose the girl, nevertheless, if her reformation was genuine.
00:18:43.096 --> 00:18:48.527
For he never put a block in the way of anyone who was down and striving to rise.
00:18:49.126 --> 00:18:58.517
He felt for a moment that his position might be a delicate one, but though no signs of them appeared in his face, his impressions evidently were suspected by the girl.
00:18:58.906 --> 00:19:03.616
For she approached him quickly saying respectfully yet with characteristic assurance.
00:19:04.217 --> 00:19:05.477
I know what you're thinking, Mr.
00:19:05.477 --> 00:19:05.836
Carter.
00:19:05.836 --> 00:19:08.926
And no one could blame you, but there's nothing in it, sir.
00:19:09.376 --> 00:19:12.467
I've been as straight as a string from the time you set me right.
00:19:12.616 --> 00:19:15.646
And shook hands with me, wishing me all kinds of good luck.
00:19:15.926 --> 00:19:20.007
And you couldn't think if you tried how much I now care for you and your good opinion.
00:19:20.547 --> 00:19:22.166
I have hid nothing here, sir.
00:19:22.497 --> 00:19:22.826
Mrs.
00:19:22.826 --> 00:19:27.997
Darling knows all about me and what I was, and she has been as good to me as you, sir.
00:19:28.507 --> 00:19:31.896
I'd bite a finger off before I'd go crooked again in any way.
00:19:32.497 --> 00:19:34.176
I think you can safely depend on that.
00:19:34.176 --> 00:19:34.477
Mr.
00:19:34.477 --> 00:19:35.676
Carter, said Mrs.
00:19:35.676 --> 00:19:36.997
Darling smiling, faintly.
00:19:37.596 --> 00:19:40.116
Nancy has confided her entire past to me.
00:19:40.446 --> 00:19:47.436
And in overlooking it and lending her a helping hand, I now know positively that I have made no mistake.
00:19:47.977 --> 00:19:50.196
She is a good girl and a capable one.
00:19:50.797 --> 00:19:57.997
There was a suspicious moisture in Nancy's brown eyes, then fixed upon the strong kindly face of her mistress.
00:19:58.626 --> 00:20:04.207
She colored deeply too when Nick extended his hand and said, heartily, come here, Nancy.
00:20:04.596 --> 00:20:05.646
Let's shake again.
00:20:06.247 --> 00:20:08.017
I am more than glad to hear this.
00:20:08.136 --> 00:20:10.267
And to know that you are on the right track.
00:20:10.807 --> 00:20:13.866
Stick to it, my girl, as I now feel sure you will.
00:20:14.467 --> 00:20:15.757
You may be sure that I will.
00:20:15.757 --> 00:20:16.027
Mr.
00:20:16.027 --> 00:20:18.636
Carter said Nancy eagerly shaking his hand.
00:20:19.237 --> 00:20:21.517
Now let's proceed with this matter.
00:20:21.906 --> 00:20:23.346
Nick said more seriously.
00:20:23.946 --> 00:20:24.277
Mrs.
00:20:24.277 --> 00:20:27.277
Darling tells me that you advised her to appeal to me.
00:20:27.876 --> 00:20:28.836
So I did Mr.
00:20:28.836 --> 00:20:30.277
Carter, Nancy replied.
00:20:30.876 --> 00:20:33.307
She will answer any questions you care to ask her.
00:20:33.336 --> 00:20:33.696
Mrs.
00:20:33.696 --> 00:20:34.326
Darling, put in.
00:20:34.926 --> 00:20:35.707
Fine fine.
00:20:36.547 --> 00:20:37.656
To begin with then.
00:20:38.257 --> 00:20:40.027
What do you know about the case?
00:20:40.126 --> 00:20:40.666
Said Nick.
00:20:41.267 --> 00:20:43.186
Was it you who last saw Mr.
00:20:43.217 --> 00:20:43.997
Darling alive?
00:20:44.596 --> 00:20:45.017
Yes, sir.
00:20:45.320 --> 00:20:48.201
I saw him leaving the house and going down back of the stable.
00:20:48.800 --> 00:20:50.480
Did you notice anything unusual?
00:20:50.750 --> 00:20:52.461
Did he appear excited or.
00:20:52.713 --> 00:20:55.163
No, sir, not in the least, put in Nancy.
00:20:55.703 --> 00:20:57.804
I didn't reckon anything was wrong coming off.
00:20:58.223 --> 00:21:02.663
I didn't get wise at all until the mistress told me that most of the master's money is missing.
00:21:03.263 --> 00:21:04.473
Wise to what Nancy?
00:21:05.074 --> 00:21:08.614
Uh, that he was killed and robbed maybe instead of putting out his own light.
00:21:09.213 --> 00:21:10.443
Why did you suspect that?
00:21:11.084 --> 00:21:13.743
Only because of two guys he has been friendly with lately.
00:21:14.314 --> 00:21:15.394
They've been here to see him.
00:21:15.604 --> 00:21:17.403
One of them, quite a number of times.
00:21:18.003 --> 00:21:18.544
Two men.
00:21:19.144 --> 00:21:19.594
Yes, sir.
00:21:20.193 --> 00:21:20.854
Do you know them?
00:21:21.017 --> 00:21:22.477
Nick inquired turning to Mrs.
00:21:22.477 --> 00:21:22.866
Darling.
00:21:23.467 --> 00:21:24.906
Hardly more than by name.
00:21:25.027 --> 00:21:25.686
She replied.
00:21:25.926 --> 00:21:29.047
My husband introduced me to one of them named Phillip Floyd.
00:21:29.346 --> 00:21:31.207
Who has called several times to see him.
00:21:31.455 --> 00:21:33.286
I have met the other only once.
00:21:33.885 --> 00:21:34.996
And what is his name?
00:21:35.162 --> 00:21:35.821
asked Nick.
00:21:35.929 --> 00:21:37.848
Proceeding to write them in his notebook.
00:21:38.449 --> 00:21:39.378
Ralph Sheldon.
00:21:40.009 --> 00:21:42.048
He called here a few days ago with Mr.
00:21:42.048 --> 00:21:43.439
Floyd who introduced me to him.
00:21:44.068 --> 00:21:47.969
My husband was absent at the time and they remained only a few minutes.
00:21:48.568 --> 00:21:50.788
That is the only time I ever saw Mr.
00:21:50.788 --> 00:21:53.878
Sheldon, though my husband had frequently mentioned him.
00:21:54.479 --> 00:21:56.009
Are they old friends of his?
00:21:56.608 --> 00:21:57.538
Quite the contrary.
00:21:57.808 --> 00:21:59.909
I never heard of them until about a month ago.
00:22:00.509 --> 00:22:02.939
Had they any business relations with your husband?
00:22:03.538 --> 00:22:04.409
I cannot say.
00:22:05.009 --> 00:22:06.358
Do you know anything about them?
00:22:06.959 --> 00:22:08.519
No more than I have told you.
00:22:08.808 --> 00:22:09.278
Said, Mrs.
00:22:09.298 --> 00:22:09.628
Darling.
00:22:10.058 --> 00:22:12.368
My husband referred to them only as friends.
00:22:12.729 --> 00:22:14.138
And he appeared to think well of them.
00:22:14.739 --> 00:22:16.179
Do you know where they live?
00:22:16.939 --> 00:22:18.288
Um, I do not.
00:22:18.888 --> 00:22:21.798
Both were here you say a few days before he died.
00:22:22.398 --> 00:22:23.449
The day before, Mr.
00:22:23.449 --> 00:22:25.848
Carter, and both attended his funeral.
00:22:26.449 --> 00:22:30.919
Did they say why they wanted to see him on the day preceding his death?
00:22:31.519 --> 00:22:32.239
They did not.
00:22:32.778 --> 00:22:36.499
I inferred from their remarks, however that it was only a friendly call.
00:22:37.098 --> 00:22:38.959
Are they men of his own age?
00:22:39.558 --> 00:22:40.759
I would say that Mr.
00:22:40.759 --> 00:22:42.378
Sheldon is nearly as old.
00:22:42.618 --> 00:22:44.179
He appears to be in the forties.
00:22:44.568 --> 00:22:44.929
Mr.
00:22:44.929 --> 00:22:46.999
Floyd, however is not over 30.
00:22:47.598 --> 00:22:49.098
Are they prepossessing men.
00:22:49.699 --> 00:22:51.409
Uh, yes in a way.
00:22:51.598 --> 00:22:54.028
Though I did not quite fancy them said Mrs.
00:22:54.028 --> 00:22:54.419
Darling.
00:22:54.669 --> 00:22:55.598
As for Nancy.
00:22:55.959 --> 00:22:58.028
Oh, well, she may speak for herself.
00:22:58.249 --> 00:23:02.568
It was partly her impression of them that led me to take her advice and appeal to you.
00:23:03.169 --> 00:23:04.189
On the dead, Mr.
00:23:04.189 --> 00:23:08.358
Carter, I would not trust either of them as far as I could throw a bull by the tail.
00:23:08.526 --> 00:23:11.195
Nancy bluntly declared in characteristic terms.
00:23:11.538 --> 00:23:14.118
You know me, sir, I am not easily fooled.
00:23:14.628 --> 00:23:17.959
I can read a man dead right nine times out of 10, Mr.
00:23:17.959 --> 00:23:20.209
Carter, the minute I set my eyes on'em.
00:23:20.808 --> 00:23:22.159
You did not fancy them then.
00:23:22.759 --> 00:23:23.929
Not so you'd notice it.
00:23:24.092 --> 00:23:24.761
said Nancy.
00:23:25.402 --> 00:23:27.711
I wouldn't say too much against the Sheldon man.
00:23:27.711 --> 00:23:27.981
Mr.
00:23:27.981 --> 00:23:30.352
Carter for I've seen him only twice.
00:23:30.652 --> 00:23:33.382
I saw him at the funeral and I let him in with Mr.
00:23:33.382 --> 00:23:34.731
Floyd a few days before.
00:23:35.128 --> 00:23:38.759
He's all right maybe though I'd hate to back much on it.
00:23:39.358 --> 00:23:40.199
And what about Mr.
00:23:40.199 --> 00:23:40.648
Floyd?
00:23:40.868 --> 00:23:43.118
Why do you distrust him so seriously?
00:23:43.719 --> 00:23:46.148
I have more than one reason for that hunch.
00:23:46.306 --> 00:23:47.905
Said Nancy inelegantly.
00:23:48.506 --> 00:23:49.465
For a starter, Mr.
00:23:49.496 --> 00:23:49.915
Carter.
00:23:50.276 --> 00:23:51.746
I've seen that guy before.
00:23:52.346 --> 00:23:52.885
Floyd?
00:23:53.486 --> 00:23:54.086
Yes, sir.
00:23:54.685 --> 00:23:56.036
When and where Nancy.
00:23:56.635 --> 00:23:59.105
Give it up on the dead, sir, I can't tell.
00:23:59.705 --> 00:24:00.875
But you feel sure of it.
00:24:01.476 --> 00:24:04.011
Surest thing you know, Said Nancy confidently.
00:24:04.652 --> 00:24:06.241
I'd stake my bundle on it, Mr.
00:24:06.271 --> 00:24:09.602
Carter, and you know what that means, knowing what I was.
00:24:09.876 --> 00:24:13.207
Any man I knew in the past was most likely a crook.
00:24:13.807 --> 00:24:15.406
Nick did not contradict her.
00:24:16.007 --> 00:24:18.406
Besides he knew me, sir, the first time.
00:24:18.856 --> 00:24:19.906
I let him in here.
00:24:20.207 --> 00:24:21.017
Nancy went on.
00:24:21.497 --> 00:24:22.936
I was wise to that all right.
00:24:23.057 --> 00:24:25.487
But it wasn't for me to meddle with the masters affairs.
00:24:25.727 --> 00:24:27.557
So I kept my trap closed.
00:24:28.156 --> 00:24:30.136
Why did you think Floyd recognized you.
00:24:30.737 --> 00:24:32.717
I saw his lamps light up the incident.
00:24:32.717 --> 00:24:33.557
They lit on me.
00:24:33.722 --> 00:24:35.913
Nancy explained it in characteristic terms.
00:24:36.843 --> 00:24:39.303
He looked at me like he saw a ghost.
00:24:39.903 --> 00:24:41.042
Did he say anything to you?
00:24:41.673 --> 00:24:43.173
No, not a word, Mr.
00:24:43.173 --> 00:24:46.093
Carter, but no man with eyes like his is on the level.
00:24:46.512 --> 00:24:47.742
I know what I'm saying.
00:24:47.923 --> 00:24:51.252
It's like breaking sticks for me to pick out a crook from a bunch of men.
00:24:51.532 --> 00:24:53.032
Floyd is one Mr.
00:24:53.032 --> 00:24:54.863
Carter, if ever there was one.
00:24:55.133 --> 00:24:57.262
And that's why I got the mistress to send for you.
00:24:57.752 --> 00:25:00.123
I don't forget what you did in that Maybrick case.
00:25:00.423 --> 00:25:02.073
And what you did for me sir never.
00:25:02.673 --> 00:25:03.932
I'm quite sure of it, Nancy.
00:25:04.116 --> 00:25:04.777
Nick replied.
00:25:05.586 --> 00:25:07.896
You can tell me no more about the two men I infer.
00:25:08.497 --> 00:25:09.126
No, sir.
00:25:09.727 --> 00:25:10.426
That is all, then.
00:25:11.497 --> 00:25:13.386
I will look deeper into this matter, Mrs.
00:25:13.416 --> 00:25:16.176
Darling, if you wish me to do so, under one condition.
00:25:16.777 --> 00:25:19.297
Oh, any conditions you see fit to impose Mr.
00:25:19.326 --> 00:25:19.717
Carter.
00:25:19.859 --> 00:25:21.029
She replied gratefully.
00:25:21.630 --> 00:25:27.990
You must leave the case entirely to me, aside from the instructions you already have given your lawyer and Dr.
00:25:27.990 --> 00:25:28.500
Lyons.
00:25:29.069 --> 00:25:32.759
I will see and inform both of them, of our arrangements.
00:25:33.359 --> 00:25:33.839
Very well.
00:25:34.289 --> 00:25:35.369
I leave it all to you.
00:25:35.970 --> 00:25:38.160
And say nothing about it to others.
00:25:38.279 --> 00:25:41.289
Nick added, there must be no publicity at present.
00:25:41.890 --> 00:25:43.660
I am more than anxious to avoid it.
00:25:43.740 --> 00:25:44.039
Mrs.
00:25:44.039 --> 00:25:44.880
Darling assured him.
00:25:45.529 --> 00:25:47.549
Nick arose and took his hat from the table.
00:25:48.150 --> 00:25:50.430
I'm going to have a look at the ruins of the boat house.
00:25:50.490 --> 00:25:52.529
He said, if you will show me the way.
00:25:52.702 --> 00:25:53.903
I will send Nancy with you.
00:25:54.502 --> 00:25:55.702
I prefer to go alone.
00:25:55.859 --> 00:25:56.519
Nick objected.
00:25:56.873 --> 00:25:58.883
I will return in a very few minutes.
00:25:59.482 --> 00:26:03.712
He left the house by the rear door, passing around the stable and down the riverbank.
00:26:04.383 --> 00:26:09.722
All that remained at the boat house and its contents was a heap of charred black ruins.
00:26:10.502 --> 00:26:16.053
The ground nearby was covered with footprints of many persons who had visited the tragic scene.
00:26:16.413 --> 00:26:19.173
But none of them were of material significance.
00:26:20.343 --> 00:26:37.972
Nick wanted only to view the surroundings, however, and he saw with a glance that the spot was so shut in by the hill in the rear and the trees on either side that knaves selecting it for the murder of Darling, if such was his fate, would have incurred only chance observation by persons on the river.
00:26:38.303 --> 00:26:41.873
Against which effective precautions could easily have been taken.
00:26:43.222 --> 00:26:47.363
Scarce 10 minutes had passed when Nick returned and rejoined Mrs.
00:26:47.393 --> 00:26:48.413
Darling in the library.
00:26:49.133 --> 00:26:55.942
He then obtained from her a description of Floyd and Sheldon, the only two persons then seeming to invite suspicion.
00:26:56.452 --> 00:26:59.542
And he also asked to see a photograph of her husband.
00:27:00.143 --> 00:27:01.913
I know of only one in existence.
00:27:01.942 --> 00:27:02.242
Mr.
00:27:02.242 --> 00:27:03.623
Carter, she replied.
00:27:04.222 --> 00:27:06.472
That was taken the year after our marriage.
00:27:07.012 --> 00:27:08.863
It is still a very good likeness of him.
00:27:09.323 --> 00:27:10.462
It is in our album.
00:27:10.823 --> 00:27:11.992
I will get it for you.
00:27:12.593 --> 00:27:15.682
She brought the volume and opened it on the library table.
00:27:16.133 --> 00:27:17.363
Only to search it vainly.
00:27:17.962 --> 00:27:19.432
The photograph of Mr.
00:27:19.432 --> 00:27:20.363
Cyrus Darling.
00:27:20.903 --> 00:27:22.012
Had disappeared.
00:27:24.012 --> 00:27:26.053
Well, that took an interesting turn.
00:27:26.692 --> 00:27:33.772
First off a massive thank you for joining me on this journey through time visiting New York city in the early 20th century.
00:27:34.282 --> 00:27:36.232
But the adventure doesn't have to stop here.
00:27:36.782 --> 00:27:41.462
To help spread the word about the show and keep it climbing the ranks of the podcasting world.
00:27:42.002 --> 00:27:45.692
Consider subscribing on your favorite platform and leaving a review.
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It's like giving the show a high five and trust me, it makes a huge difference.
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Well, you can also become a monthly supporter for the price of well, less than your morning latte.
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Every contribution helps keep this story, train chugging along.
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Head over to forward into the past podcast.com to learn more and join the community.
00:28:10.153 --> 00:28:13.722
Not only can you get some detailed information about the episode you just heard?
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But there's lots of links to the merch store and, uh, wow.
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I've started rambling again.
00:28:20.593 --> 00:28:21.532
Okay, friends.
00:28:21.853 --> 00:28:22.962
Until next time.
00:28:23.413 --> 00:28:24.343
Thanks for listening.
00:28:24.613 --> 00:28:28.992
Keep sharing the stories and be a good human.
00:28:29.952 --> 00:28:30.823
Bye for now.
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