- 08/05/2025
The Mandarin Mystery is a 1936 American mystery crime film directed by Ralph Staub, based on “The Chinese Orange Mystery”, a novel featuring the detective character Ellery Queen. The story revolves around two murders and the theft of a $50,000 Chinese Mandarin stamp. As the investigation unfolds, Ellery Queen, a mystery writer and amateur detective, uncovers a network of counterfeiters and solves the case with his sharp intellect. The film combines suspense, humor, and intrigue, making it a classic example of 1930s mystery cinema.
Credits:
Director: Ralph Staub
Producer: Nat Levine
Starring: Eddie Quillan, Charlotte Henry, Rita La Roy, Wade Boteler
Screenplay: Frederic Dannay, Manfred Lee, Gertrude Orr, Rex Taylor
Cinematography: Jack A. Marta
#TheMandarinMystery1936 #ElleryQueen #ClassicHollywood #MysteryFilm
Credits:
Director: Ralph Staub
Producer: Nat Levine
Starring: Eddie Quillan, Charlotte Henry, Rita La Roy, Wade Boteler
Screenplay: Frederic Dannay, Manfred Lee, Gertrude Orr, Rex Taylor
Cinematography: Jack A. Marta
#TheMandarinMystery1936 #ElleryQueen #ClassicHollywood #MysteryFilm
Category
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Short filmTranscript
00:00The End
00:30The End
01:00The End
01:30The End
01:59Of course, so long as you're so curious
02:02Are you Miss Temple?
02:06Yes
02:06We've been sent here to escort you to a hotel
02:08By Dr. Kirk?
02:10At his request
02:11Thanks, makes me feel quite important
02:14Hmm
02:15Somebody's gonna pay a lot of money for this
02:19Real money, I hope
02:21Don't worry, we'll get our bid just the same
02:23On the income tax
02:25I'm from Rowan and Company
02:27If you would allow us to represent you
02:29We could negotiate a sale on the Chinese man
02:31But sir, I've made arrangements to sell it to Dr. Kirk
02:34Don't accept his offer, it's not enough
02:35For the poor but honest temples, I assure you, it's a fortune
02:39But we could get you much more
02:40Well, keep your car
02:41If the sale should fall through, I'll notify you
02:44Thank you, I hope we'll hear from you
02:45I'm from the record
02:46How about a picture?
02:47Can we have a picture, Miss Temple?
02:48Well, it's very flattering, but I'm not important enough to
02:51Thanks, Miss Temple
02:55Oh, pardon me
02:57Is that Mary Townsend?
02:59No, sir, that's Miss Temple
03:01Miss Townsend left the ship to Panama
03:02Well, that sort of leaves me holding the bag
03:06I mean the bouquet
03:08Hey, Porter
03:10Want these for your girl?
03:17Oh
03:18So sorry, my aim isn't so good as it used to be
03:24Quite all right
03:25Maybe with a little practice
03:26Hey, you, what are you trying to pull?
03:28Hello, Mr. Queen
03:29Hello
03:29Did your father get you on the reception committee?
03:32Somebody should take the blame
03:33Sit right there, Mr. Queen
03:34Do you mind?
03:36I've never been photographed officially
03:37What?
03:38They usually want a tall, dark fellow
03:40Here
03:43Thanks a lot, Mr. Queen
03:47Thank you
03:48The boy who wrote those detective stories?
03:51Yes, have you read them?
03:52I read one
03:54How interesting
03:55Not very
03:56Thank you, boys
04:08I'll carry on
04:09You always do
04:11Would you rather have me opposite
04:13Or next to you at dinner?
04:14I won't need person at dinner
04:15I could get up for breakfast
04:25If I had a little encouragement
04:27That's a lot to ask of the name
04:29Then it's a date
04:30Oh, Miss Temple
04:32Dr. Kirk made a reservation for you
04:34Oh, thanks
04:35Well, I show Miss Temple to 12-11
04:38Goodbye
04:39And thank you
04:40Twelve, please
04:48Twelve, please
04:49Twelve
04:50Please ring Dr. Kirk's penthouse
05:05And tell him Miss Temple has arrived
05:07I'll take it, Mason
05:14Very good, Miss Irene
05:15Yes
05:18All right
05:22I'll tell him
05:23Somebody must have talked
05:30All this publicity may spoil the deal
05:33I hope it does
05:34You shouldn't
05:35This will mean a lot to you and Irene
05:37Yes, a lot of grief
05:38The Chinese Mandarin is worth twice what I'm paying for
05:42Well, Miss Temple's here
05:44You better tell her that
05:45Maybe she'll take more
05:47Mason
05:48Yes, sir
05:50Go to Miss Temple's suite
05:51Ask her to come here
05:52Yes, sir
05:53Ask her to leave us enough money to buy a meal in our old age
05:56Why can't I convince you that this is a better investment than stocks and bonds?
06:02Someday you'll thank me
06:03We'll thank you right now if you'll give us a decent allowance
06:05I'm protecting you from your own extravagance
06:09And from fortune hunters
06:11Could he possibly mean me?
06:12Oh, don't mind him, darling
06:14We're glad to see you
06:15Oh, you can't insult an insurance man
06:16I'll get rid of him either
06:18Certainly not when I'm working on my best prospect
06:20If you haven't got anything better to do at the moment, let's get married, huh?
06:24Donald
06:24You want to take a chance?
06:26Do I?
06:27Planning to live on Irene's money, I presume?
06:29Wrong again, I'm about to close a deal that will net me $10,000
06:32Donald, where could you get that much money?
06:35He hasn't got $10,000 yet
06:36I'll get it, all I have to do is say the word
06:38I suppose you'll try to prevent Irene marrying him now
06:41I will prevent him
06:42As long as I'm her guardian, she'll do as I say
06:45Then I'll run away
06:46You won't have to
06:47I'm going to court and demand that Uncle Alex's guardianship be set aside
06:51That's ridiculous
06:52As long as I can prove that I'm investing your estate legitimately
06:55And I can
06:57The courts will not interfere with my trusteeship
07:00We'll see about that
07:01I'll find a way
07:02I've tried, Mason
07:12They don't want to understand me
07:14Take that stuff away
07:18Miss Temple's compliment, sir
07:19She's a bit of tidying up and will be with you presently
07:22What does she want to dress up for?
07:25Oh, all right
07:25Get me that album from the safe
07:28Very good, sir
07:44Yes?
08:02Yes? This is Miss Temple.
08:16I said this is the manager.
08:18Our guests are complaining they can't see you clearly.
08:20Will you please run up your shades?
08:22Your voice is very familiar, but I can't place your manners.
08:27Are you that young man?
08:29Uh-huh. How about that dinner?
08:30Are you trying to break our breakfast, Dave?
08:33No, just hurrying it up.
08:35Why don't you say yes? We'll be our next number.
08:37Hey, there's a man in your room.
08:39It's only the radio. I'll turn it off.
08:51Hello?
08:52Oh, I was just ready to drown myself.
08:55Then I'll hang up so you can get on with it.
08:57Oh, on second thought, I can't. I'm my father's only son.
09:00How does he feel about that?
09:02I'll let him speak for himself. Meet the governor.
09:05Miss Temple, Inspector Queen.
09:10Pleased to meet you, Miss Temple.
09:11How do you do, Inspector? I've heard a lot about you.
09:14Lies, my dear lady. All lies.
09:17She has a nice voice.
09:18Say, what am I getting? An audition?
09:21No. Don't get nervous.
09:22This is only an invitation to breakfast.
09:24I can't go. I've lost my gloves.
09:28I'll find them for you.
09:29That should keep you busy until morning.
09:31Goodbye.
09:32Oh, ta-da-loo.
09:33For you, Miss Temple.
09:47For you, Miss Temple.
10:01Oh, thank you.
10:02You're welcome.
10:02You're welcome.
10:32I want the manager.
11:02Hurry, please.
11:05Telephone, Mr. Mellish.
11:14Yes?
11:15Yes, this is the manager.
11:18Impossible.
11:19Nobody commits robbery in my hotel.
11:22They do?
11:23I'll be right up.
11:24Get the police.
11:25Send them up to 12-11.
11:26I told you I wouldn't be lost.
11:28It's been worth waiting for.
11:29Like it?
11:30Mm-hmm.
11:36Why, Miss Temple, where will I find Dr. Kirk?
11:38In his stamp room.
11:39You may go through the library.
11:41Oh, this is terrible, Miss Kirk.
11:46Now, who'd steal that stamp?
11:48What stamp?
11:49That Miss Mandel in a Chinese temple.
11:51A Chinese Mandel?
11:52Oh, and in my hotel, we've always been so particular.
11:54Never a breath of scandal.
11:56I must tell Dr. Kirk.
11:57So that's why the young lady was all in a dinner.
12:09I beg your pardon.
12:10I'm Inspector Queen.
12:12Where's Dr. Kirk?
12:12In his stamp room, I think.
12:14I'd rather you didn't leave just yet.
12:16Well, I'm Martha Kirk.
12:17Well, that's just fine, but everyone stays here until I'm through.
12:20Oh, really?
12:29What's happened?
12:30Oh, more trouble about that silly stamp.
12:32It's been stolen.
12:35I hope they can find it.
12:37Where are you going?
12:38Well, I've got to find Fifi.
12:39I must be going.
12:40Just a minute.
12:41Who are you?
12:41Well, I'm not a...
12:42I didn't ask you who you're not.
12:44Who are you?
12:45I'm a suspect.
12:46No, no, no.
12:47I'm not a suspect.
12:48I'm the manager of the hotel, Mr. Kirk.
12:50Mr. Mellish.
12:52Oh, dear.
12:57Donald, are you absolutely sure of getting that $10,000?
13:01It's a cinch unless the chap drop's dead.
13:03We're waiting for you.
13:09Yeah, you too.
13:11Oh.
13:13Come on, come on.
13:15It's all this about the Chinese Mandarin being stolen.
13:17Yes, yes, we must find it.
13:19It's the most valuable stamp in the world.
13:21Such things don't happen in my hotel.
13:23I make rules.
13:24Think what it means to poor Miss Temple.
13:26Why, she was counting on my $50,000.
13:29$50,000?
13:30Not a cent.
13:31Not if she sues me for $100,000.
13:34Perhaps she will.
13:35Maybe she changed her mind about letting my Uncle Herbert at such a bargain.
13:38Where is she?
13:39Where is Miss Temple?
13:40I thought she was with you.
13:41I told her to go through the library.
13:44I haven't seen her.
13:52Pull out this door.
13:57It's locked from the other side.
13:58Open the door.
14:08She can't hear you.
14:08This room is soundproof.
14:09Is there another door?
14:10Yes, from the hall.
14:12Open it, Irene.
14:12Bring the girl in.
14:13Let's get to the bottom of this.
14:15Yes, let's.
14:15Inspector Queen, come at once.
14:40What's the matter?
14:41What's he doing?
14:42I wouldn't say he's posing for a picture.
14:44Oh, but then what is it?
14:44I calls it murder.
14:46Impossible!
14:49Don't leave the apartment, any of you.
14:51Get the homicide squad.
14:52Yes, sir.
14:53What's wrong?
14:57Who is it?
14:58That's what I was about to ask you.
15:01How did he get in here?
15:03Don't you know?
15:04I haven't left the stamp room since lunchtime.
15:07I haven't seen anyone except my nieces.
15:12And that young man.
15:14A friend of yours?
15:18I never saw him before.
15:21Killer must have used the holder to get away.
15:23I suppose so.
15:25Why is his coat on backwards?
15:27That's what I want to find out.
15:29Wait a minute.
15:29The Mandarin on the stamp.
15:32His clothes were on backwards.
15:34That's why the issue was suppressed.
15:36The stamp's at the bottom of this.
15:38Where's that girl, anyway?
15:39Maybe she went back to her room.
15:41Sent for the boys and the policewoman.
15:43You better put him to bed.
15:44Not in my hotel.
15:46I'll have to ask you to leave, Doctor.
15:48Lock the door and don't let anyone in here till the boys show up.
15:51Yes, sir.
15:53There's something mysterious going on here.
15:56That man is dead.
15:57Don't jump at conclusions.
16:01I can't keep catching you.
16:03I got work to do.
16:06It's about time you showed up.
16:09How did you get in here?
16:11I came in with the other essentials.
16:12What?
16:13The baggage.
16:14I never call a trunk a trunk.
16:15Once I called a grip a bag, but I never miss calling a date a date.
16:19How much would you take to go away?
16:21And forget you?
16:22I used to get a dime from my sister to go away, but I charge more for forgetting, because
16:27it's harder to do.
16:31Here.
16:31What do I get for these?
16:32What do you want?
16:34I'll settle for dinner.
16:39All right.
16:40If you'll take me to Rowan and Company first.
16:43It's a deal.
16:49Hmm.
16:50That makes a swell background for an orchid.
16:54I, uh, I never wear them except for breakfast.
16:58I'll remember that.
16:59I'll be with you in a minute.
17:00Come in.
17:16Hi, Dad.
17:17You always chase every girl I like.
17:20What are you doing here?
17:21Waiting for Miss Temple.
17:22Where is she?
17:23No fair cutting in.
17:24I saw her first.
17:26I haven't got any time for your nonsense now.
17:28That goes next door.
17:30Father, is that nice?
17:36What?
17:37Peeking into a lady's bathroom.
17:50She's not in there.
17:52How do you know?
17:54You're not blushing.
17:55And I'm not kidding.
17:56Then what's all the shooting for?
17:58That's what I'm going to find out.
18:00It's been a murder.
18:01Ouch.
18:03What?
18:04I came over here to look for a stamp and find a 14-carat homicide.
18:07Don't ask me to help.
18:08I don't want to make history.
18:10I just want to make love.
18:11I'm not asking you.
18:12This is a man-sized job.
18:14A policeman's.
18:15Ah, then you don't need brains.
18:17Ah, go take a bath.
18:19Pop, you've got something there.
18:21You can come out now.
18:25He's gone.
18:37Was he busy, looking for a stolen stamp, a murder, and you?
18:40Why is he looking for me?
18:42I had my stamp, and I don't know anything about a murder.
18:46Stop me if I'm wrong, but weren't you just hiding from my father?
18:49I never met him.
18:50Well, he's just crazy to meet you.
18:52Stop trying to be funny.
18:54This is no joking matter to me.
18:57Is it that important?
18:59If you'd faced poverty all your life, and suddenly found you had a fortune in your head,
19:04you'd think it important, wouldn't you?
19:06My mother told me, quote, money isn't everything, unquote.
19:13To my mother and dad, it means coming back to the state.
19:16Home, peace, and security for the rest of their lives.
19:19And it all depends on one little set?
19:21Yes, and I'm going to sell.
19:22Does your invitation still help me?
19:25Sure.
19:26Then get me out of here quickly.
19:27I must go to Rowan and company.
19:48I'll bet you could use a little help.
19:50Would you?
19:50A lady who had big blue eyes and soft brown hair.
19:54In other words, you're my client.
19:57That's my call to arms.
19:58I'll run up to Kirk's, look around, and bingo, solve the mystery.
20:02As easy as that?
20:04Easier for you.
20:05Yes?
20:05Open in the name of the law.
20:17This is no time for games.
20:19It's a murder case.
20:20Shh, Pop, I know.
20:22Somebody told me.
20:25Goodness, Pop, how did that happen?
20:27Don't call me Pop.
20:28And don't come barging in here getting under people's feet.
20:30This story's for the police records, not a publisher.
20:34All right, boys, take the body down.
20:36He's not as big a man as his father.
20:38But your son did inherit his brains, and I do make money.
20:41Have it your way.
20:43How'd he get in here?
20:44You tell me.
20:45Nobody else will.
20:46The two spears.
20:48They're to hold a dead body erect.
20:50Cried an idea.
20:50Yes, but what for?
20:52Well, we won't go into that.
20:53You know the words you don't know?
20:55In one word, yes.
20:58Hmm, the coat on backwards.
21:00Say, he couldn't have done that himself.
21:02Did you ever try to put a coat on backwards and button it?
21:05That backwards business means something.
21:07Now it comes out.
21:10The killer was trying to give the impression of great strength.
21:13Joey handles a heavy body, easily undressing it, then dressing it backwards.
21:16A woman might have done that, thinking we wouldn't believe she had strength enough to do it.
21:20Oh, no, no.
21:21Oh, yes, yes.
21:22That's why I'm going to chat with you on this temple.
21:25Just wasting your time.
21:26Yeah, it's so simple, it is a waste of time.
21:29The fellow trails the girl here, snatches the stamp, and she bumps him off to get it back again.
21:33Too easy, Dad.
21:34This is a hard one.
21:35Oh, you want to make a mystery of it.
21:40You can't eat that.
21:42Might be evidence.
21:43Might so?
21:44Hmm, not a fingerprint.
21:45Smooth job.
21:46Must have worn gloves.
21:47This is the craziest case I ever saw.
21:49Anything more, Inspector?
21:50No, I'll let you know if anything turns up.
21:52All right.
21:59Got it solved?
22:00Oh, a couple of details missing, but take a look at that boat.
22:04What about it?
22:05Has it been oiled recently?
22:09Oh, I'll check that.
22:11Oh, I thought my girl would like it.
22:13When I get her up here, we'll see.
22:15Boys are here.
22:16Bring her in.
22:23You always send them orchids, don't you, son?
22:25The first time you guess right, I'll have Winslow send an orchid to you for the best news item of the week.
22:31See, did anybody hear the shot?
22:33Not a soul.
22:34You questioned them all.
22:35Yes, and drew a blank.
22:37Nobody knows nothing.
22:37Such grammar.
22:40Where was Dr. Kirk?
22:41Claims he was in the stamp room.
22:43And he didn't hear it?
22:44That's right.
22:45The room's soundproof.
22:46Sounds phony.
22:47Let's check it.
22:54Juffy.
22:55How are your lungs?
22:57All right.
22:57How are yours?
22:58No, we want you to yell.
23:00Oh, gee, Chief.
23:01I'm kind of bashful when it comes to showing off.
23:03Well, you just pretend you're asking me for that promotion and you'll feel natural.
23:09Oh, I think you'll do.
23:10Over here.
23:15We're going in that room, and when I close that door, I want you to yell your head off.
23:19Make all the noise you can.
23:31Hurry up.
23:42Begin.
23:51Leave me alone.
23:52I'm working.
23:56I don't think he's even trying.
23:59When are you going to begin?
24:01Begin?
24:02I yelled my head off.
24:03What do you think?
24:04I am a siren?
24:05Now I hope you're satisfied Dr. Kirk couldn't have heard the shot.
24:08Oh, have you boys met Cuffey?
24:11Uh...
24:11Any more bright suggestions?
24:18Would you like to know where Miss Temple is?
24:20Here.
24:21You tell me where she is, and I'll tell you where she's going.
24:24I'll bet you 50 Joe Temple had nothing to do with this murder.
24:27Take it.
24:27And 50 more, I spot whodunit.
24:29Who did it?
24:31I'll take that, too.
24:32Now, where is she?
24:37I see a bedroom.
24:39Her bedroom.
24:41She's sitting on the edge of a chair.
24:42I see her, too.
24:43She's talking to a handsome stranger.
24:46And he's telling her she's about to meet a dear old inspector.
24:49I see her, Cuffey!
24:50Get that dame.
24:55Miss Temple, a man has been murdered.
24:59You were in this room.
25:00I wasn't.
25:01Is this yours?
25:02This yours?
25:04Why?
25:05I object.
25:06Overruled.
25:07When you came in here, you were wearing this flower.
25:09I didn't come in here.
25:10I didn't come in here.
25:11She did, too.
25:12I saw her.
25:13So did I.
25:14And she was wearing that flower.
25:15You better tell the truth.
25:17All right.
25:18I did come in here.
25:19And that man was here, was he?
25:20He was.
25:21All right.
25:22Go on.
25:23He had my stamp.
25:24And you killed him to get it back.
25:25I didn't kill him.
25:26He was dead.
25:27He had the envelope in his hand.
25:28Then what did you do?
25:29I remember, I was so shocked, I just wanted to get away.
25:31But you weren't too shocked to take your stamp.
25:33You did get it, didn't you?
25:35Let me have it.
25:40May I see it, please?
25:41Just a minute.
25:43I've got my case and your hundred right in my hand.
25:46I wouldn't be too sure about that, Inspector.
25:52No Stampy, no Casey.
25:54They've stolen it!
25:59Mr. Trent, you knew the murdered man.
26:04You owed him money.
26:05Who says so?
26:06This says so.
26:12All right.
26:13I did know him.
26:14His name is Craig.
26:15I lost a little money to him at a gambling house.
26:18And he followed you here to get it.
26:19I don't know why he came here.
26:20I told him I'd have the money in a day or two.
26:22You're stalling, Trent.
26:24You and Craig planned to steal the stamp and sell it.
26:26Then you decided you could use all the money.
26:28I don't know what you're talking about.
26:29I do.
26:30You killed Craig.
26:31Oh, that's absurd.
26:32I...
26:33He was dead when I first saw him.
26:41Come in here.
26:43Take these men in the next room and search them.
26:47And you search these women thoroughly.
26:49I want that stamp and I want the killer's gun.
26:52You can keep the small change in the wristwatches.
26:58Oh, doctor.
27:00Too bad about your accident.
27:01Rheumatism, my boy.
27:03Well, that's better than a broken leg.
27:05I've been in torture for the last six weeks.
27:07Oh.
27:09Congratulations.
27:10You have two suspects.
27:11Now all you need is one murderer.
27:12All in good time, my boy.
27:13Well, this is as good a time as any.
27:14There was nothing on them, Inspector.
27:15I even went through their hair with a fine comb.
27:16Well, use the same thing on every room in this house.
27:18That's all for you.
27:19Go.
27:20Mason is bringing cocktails.
27:21Now we're getting somewhere.
27:22Yes, but where?
27:23Oh.
27:24Cheer up.
27:25Recovery is done.
27:26Oh.
27:27Oh.
27:28Oh.
27:29Oh.
27:30Oh.
27:31Oh.
27:32Oh.
27:33Oh.
27:34Oh.
27:35Oh.
27:36Oh.
27:37Oh.
27:38Oh.
27:39Oh.
27:40Oh.
27:41Oh.
27:42Oh.
27:44Oh.
27:45Oh.
27:46Oh.
27:47Oh.
27:48Oh.
27:49Oh.
27:50Oh.
27:51ilippines is just around the corner.
27:52What corner?
27:53I don't know, I'll look.
27:54Aren't you having a cocktail, Miss Kirk?
28:02No, I- I've been too busy.
28:02I had to get these letters out for Dr. Kirk.
28:04Aren't you having a cocktail, Miss Kirk?
28:09No, I've been too busy.
28:12I had to get these letters out for Dr. Kirk.
28:21Wrong again.
28:22I thought I had it.
28:23Had what?
28:27Hey, Dad.
28:32Want something?
28:34Well, at least big eyes are running the Queen family.
28:38Someone's moved that picture since I was here before.
28:41What's wrong, Miss Kirk?
28:43Nothing.
28:44Not a thing.
28:45You seem startled.
28:46Well, I'm not really.
28:49Something's been stuck on this backing.
28:51And recently, too.
28:53I wonder if someone parked the stamp there so it wouldn't be found while the rest would be in search.
28:57Miss Kirk.
29:00Miss Kirk, do you know anything about that picture?
29:02No, no, I don't.
29:04Did you know a stamp had been hidden behind it?
29:06No, I didn't.
29:08Why won't you believe me?
29:10I haven't stolen anything and I...
29:12I haven't killed anyone.
29:14Please leave me alone.
29:15I'm sorry, but I have to question everyone.
29:17This stamp is a counterfeit.
29:19Impossible.
29:19This stamp in my collection has been expertized.
29:24I don't think these two are genuine, either.
29:27Are you an authority on stamps, Miss Duffin?
29:29Well, I...
29:30I am.
29:30I read a book once.
29:31Interesting.
29:32Very.
29:33It was all about the counterfeiting of rare stamps.
29:35How does it work?
29:36Like this.
29:37If you have a $1,000 stamp, the real stamp, you can only get $1,000 for it.
29:41But, if you own 10 counterfeits, you can make $10,000.
29:44$1,000 for each month.
29:46If there are any counterfeits in my collection, a clever thief has been at work.
29:49Headquarters calling, Chief.
29:50I switched them in here.
29:53Hello.
29:54Yes?
29:56Fine.
29:57Send two men to search his place.
29:59Get a line on Craig.
30:00He did time for forgery and he's living in a place in West 47.
30:04Oh, 42nd, huh?
30:0547.
30:06Oh, 37.
30:0747!
30:08There's no such number as 3747.
30:10I didn't say 3747.
30:13I said 180 West 47.
30:16Thanks.
30:17Why don't you stop wasting my time?
30:19Why don't you stick to books?
30:21Why do you annoy men at work?
30:23Yeah.
30:24Why don't you stop interfering with the law?
30:26Why don't you tend to your own business?
30:27And why don't you get out of here?
30:29I intend to.
30:32Now, let's send you something.
30:33Young Trent's been working with Craig.
30:35Counterfeit writer.
30:37You still think you know who done it?
30:40Did it?
30:44Oh, it's all right, Martha.
30:45You haven't anything to worry about.
30:46Oh, but you have.
30:47Why did you get mixed up with Craig?
30:49There's nothing to that.
30:50Just murder.
30:51Oh, Martha, you don't know what you're saying.
30:54Pardon me.
30:55Does anybody here know how many tangerines there were in that bowl in the library?
30:59Tangerines?
31:00Why, uh, three.
31:01And I ate one.
31:02Oh, thanks.
31:05Here's a picture of the Chinese Mandarin.
31:08I wish I'd never sent for it.
31:12So this is what...
31:13If you finish censoring those, I'd appreciate having them mailed.
31:16They're quite important.
31:17Oh, Guffey.
31:18Yes, sir.
31:20Mail these, please.
31:21Yes, sir.
31:23Why are the Mandarin's clothes on backwards?
31:25It was an engraving mistake.
31:26The issue is called in, and this is the only one in existence.
31:30Oh.
31:31Guffey, is that nice?
31:45Well, I'm not overlooking any bets, Mr. Queen.
31:48I'd give my right eye to get my hands on that Chinese stamp.
31:51Wouldn't we all?
31:52Stay.
31:53You're not running out on me, are you?
31:57I've something very important to do.
31:58Of course you have.
31:59You're taking me to dinner.
32:00Oh, you have to stay here.
32:01But I don't want to stay here with these people.
32:03Oh, but they're awfully good company.
32:05Now take the inspector.
32:06If you don't mind, I'll take you.
32:07Is this a proposal?
32:09No, an alternative.
32:11Oh.
32:15Hey, Jones, come up here.
32:17Come here, sir.
32:22The inspector wants to speak to you.
32:23It's all right.
32:24I'll see that no one leaves.
32:25Right, Mr. Queen.
32:26Oh, let me have your flashlight, will you?
32:32One day in New York and you make headlines.
32:50Why make it hard for yourself?
33:03Shh, don't make any noise.
33:05There might be someone in here.
33:08Shh, we mustn't make any noise.
33:14What are you doing?
33:15Trying to be quiet.
33:17Well, don't work so hard at it.
33:19Oh, cozy little hideout.
33:21Lana.
33:23Somebody's been in our little house.
33:25Somebody's interested in our Mr. Craig, too.
33:27Who?
33:28I'm the one who asked the questions.
33:42There's nothing in there.
33:43Oh, yes, there is.
33:45An icebox.
33:49I found something.
33:50A clue?
33:52A bottle of milk.
33:54Oh, don't ruin your dinner.
33:56I'm just whetting my appetite.
33:58Clumsy, I told you to pick up your feet.
34:06Oh, something fell on me.
34:21I'm numb.
34:22Drink this.
34:23I said, no, I'm not dumb.
34:27What's that?
34:30I'll let you know when I find out.
34:31Oh, look.
34:32This is what the fellow who hit me was looking for.
34:40What fellow?
34:41I wish I knew.
34:45Want a couple of souvenirs?
34:47Those dirty things?
34:48What are they good for?
34:49They're dyes to counterfeit stamps.
34:51Why, it's the dye of one of those counterfeit stamps from Dr. Kirk's collection.
35:02A Rowan and Company stamp catalog.
35:04So what?
35:05What a grand setup for the sale of counterfeit stamps that outfit would be.
35:09You don't think a reputable firm like that would be mixed up and counterfeiting, do you?
35:13You never can tell.
35:15Rowan and Company.
35:18Howard Bronson, manager.
35:20Do you know this chap, Bronson?
35:21He came to the pier and wanted to buy the stamp.
35:24I wish to heaven I'd sold it to him.
35:28Had another brainstorm?
35:31Police headquarters.
35:32My brain's been storming ever since I met you.
35:34Captain O'Donnell, please.
35:35Hello, Captain.
35:39This is Ellery Queen.
35:42Yeah, fine, thanks.
35:43I'm working with the inspector on the Craig case.
35:46Uh-huh.
35:47He wants to talk to Howard Bronson of Rowan and Company.
35:50Yeah, that's right.
35:52At the Kirk penthouse.
35:54See that he gets over there right away, will you?
35:56Thanks.
35:57What's the idea?
35:58Shh, don't make any noise or scare it away.
36:01We'll just take this along.
36:02My dad can use this footstool.
36:04Take him up.
36:06Oh, hello, boys.
36:07Glad to see you.
36:07Ain't that nice?
36:08Keep him up.
36:09Well, you know me.
36:10I'm Ellery Queen, Inspector Queen's little boy.
36:12Oh, and you were bringing that home to Papa.
36:13Search him, Woods.
36:15Oh, this is silly.
36:16You took the words right out of my mouth.
36:18Is this the thanks I get for putting valuable evidence in your hands?
36:22And a rope around your neck.
36:23Come on, get going.
36:24But I'm a detective.
36:25Well, try and detect yourself out of this one.
36:27Look, you tell him I'm a detective.
36:29I should be arrested for perjury.
36:31Come on.
36:32Oh, this is a beautiful night.
36:38You've been such a help.
36:40And now I can ever thank you for all you've done for me.
36:42Oh, tut tut, lady.
36:43I'm not worthy of such praise.
36:46Your arrest is entirely due to this splendid fellow.
36:49Oh, shut up.
36:50Now, now, I don't want to have any trouble with you.
36:53What jail are we going to?
36:55Have you any particular jail in mind?
36:56What kind of a jail would you like?
36:58Well, what jails have you got?
37:00Well, we've got something nice in the city Bastille,
37:02and we're showing a very smart line of county hooscows.
37:05Now, let me see.
37:06This time of the year, I sort of lean towards the city presence.
37:09The county detention camp has its advantages.
37:12Ah, but for sheer beauty, give me Sing Sing in the spring.
37:15Could you give him Sing Sing?
37:17I'll do my best.
37:19Isn't he not?
37:20Awfully.
37:20You're the nicest girl I've ever been handcuffed to.
37:47And you're the nicest boy that's ever had me against you.
37:55It's been a real pleasure to arrest you.
38:08You braved you to have $10,000, didn't you?
38:11I mentioned it, yes.
38:12It was a commission on an insurance policy.
38:14I've explained that.
38:14But you haven't explained where you were during the time when Craig was killed.
38:18Ah.
38:18He was with me.
38:19Well, where were you?
38:20Dressing.
38:21And he was with you?
38:23Oh, you have me so rattled, I don't know what I'm saying.
38:25You're not being fair.
38:27Miss Temple caused all the trouble, and you've let her go.
38:29Well, I didn't let her go.
38:31That idiot son of mine.
38:32Pacing me dead.
38:34Hey, you.
38:35You.
38:38Where have you been?
38:39Some of your dumb detectives took me for a ride.
38:42And another thing.
38:43By what right do you take people out of this house when I'm conducting an investigation?
38:46Sorry, Pop.
38:47Inspector.
38:48But I had asked that person a very important question.
38:51Alone.
38:52Frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if I could get an admission from her.
38:55Well, I would.
38:55All I could get from her is a denial.
38:57But, Pop, you don't ask the right question.
38:59Well, that's why I get all the wrong answers.
39:01I was just over to Craig's place.
39:03Alone?
39:04That was dangerous.
39:05Did you get anything?
39:06Yeah, a sock in the head and a great idea.
39:08Good.
39:09What was the idea?
39:11Has the medical examiner made out a report on Craig?
39:14Yes, and there was no tangerine in his stomach.
39:17Then the killer took it.
39:18What's that got to do with the murder?
39:20I don't know yet.
39:23Come in.
39:26Here's Mr. Bronson, Inspector.
39:27Bronson?
39:28How do you do, Mr. Bronson?
39:29What's the meaning of this?
39:30Getting me out of bed and dragging me over here at this time of night?
39:32Sorry to disturb your beauty sleep, but we need an expert opinion on some stamps.
39:36If you don't mind, this way.
39:38Good evening, Dr. Kirk.
39:43Hello, Bronson.
39:44Why are you here?
39:45I'm sure I don't know.
39:46I believe you two have met.
39:50My error.
39:51Mr. Bronson.
39:55Would you say that this is genuine, Mr. Bronson?
40:00Maybe you could use this.
40:02Why, this might be, it is a counterfeit.
40:12And so are these.
40:13Very well done.
40:14They might even deceive experts.
40:16You sold me those stamps, Bronson?
40:18I sold you the originals.
40:19Rowan and company guarantee every stamp they handle, but not after they leave our hands.
40:24I'm beginning to understand.
40:26A clever thief who had access to this room.
40:30Someone who wanted money.
40:32And to discredit me with my wards.
40:35Must be staying here all night listening to this nonsense.
40:40I'm getting bored, too.
40:41Come on, Dad.
40:47How's it going, Chief?
40:48Now it dies.
40:49Well, somebody must have did it.
40:51I've done it.
40:51What were you angling for?
40:55I'm not angling yet.
40:56Just stocking the stream of fish.
40:58Bronson is the chap who beat me in Craig's room.
41:00How do you know?
41:00I don't know, but that magnifying glass gave me a darn good hunch.
41:04Bronson is tied into this counterfeit ring.
41:06And there's a third party.
41:10If you have a lead, come across.
41:12I'd like to look around Martha's room.
41:14She knows something about something.
41:15You can't go in there.
41:17Turning respectable?
41:18You peeked into Miss Temple's bathroom.
41:20What?
41:21I can't see Martha in the picture.
41:25Everybody's in it.
41:27Oh, look.
41:28What is it?
41:29Just what I've been looking for.
41:31As an amateur, I always think there's lying down.
41:35Now, from here, I wonder where little Martha would hide a postage stamp.
41:38Oh, quit stalling.
41:39You haven't any angle in here.
41:51Lie down, Martha.
41:55You're shaking like a leaf.
41:57I can't help it.
41:58Well, why did this have to happen?
42:02I'll open the window.
42:04No.
42:04No, no.
42:05I'm sorry.
42:06There's nothing to be frightened about.
42:08The police are everywhere.
42:10Rain, you do love him, don't you?
42:13You want to help him?
42:14Donald?
42:15Why, of course.
42:17Didn't I say I was with him when I wasn't?
42:19That's right.
42:20We've got to help him.
42:22Listen.
42:24I stole three of Uncle Alec's stamps.
42:27They were supposed to be worth $2,000.
42:28You stole them?
42:30For you and Donald, to help you.
42:32Not for myself.
42:33Then I found they were worthless.
42:35Counterfeits.
42:36Someone else had the same idea.
42:38Someone who needed money.
42:40Don't you see?
42:41It must have been Donald.
42:44No.
42:44It isn't true.
42:45Craig made those counterfeits.
42:48Then he and Donald quarreled about money.
42:49And this afternoon...
42:50He didn't kill anybody.
42:51You don't know what you're saying.
42:53You're insane.
42:54Am I?
42:55Am I?
42:56That isn't all I know.
42:57I won't listen to another word.
42:58I won't.
43:02We'll take these if you don't mind.
43:12We heard everything, Miss Kirk.
43:14Stamp racket right under our noses.
43:15And Donald...
43:16Donald wasn't to blame.
43:17He was after the Chinese Mandarin.
43:19No.
43:19Why should he want it?
43:20It was the only one of its kind in the world.
43:22He couldn't sell it.
43:23But he could sell the counterfeits Craig was going to make for him.
43:25He stood to clean up half a million with them.
43:27Well, then why should he kill him?
43:28He needed him.
43:29Yes, you're right.
43:31But Donald wanted money.
43:32Sure.
43:33That's why Craig was more valuable to him alive than dead.
43:36Why should he kill him?
43:37He didn't.
43:39Now, if you will help us, maybe we can help you.
43:43I told you everything I know.
43:44All right.
43:45Then we'll take Donald downtown and make him talk.
43:47No.
43:48No, don't.
43:50I'll talk.
43:52The Chinese Mandarin.
43:54I saw it put behind the stamp frame in the stamp room.
43:57Who put it there?
43:58It was my...
43:59No, it sounded like a shot.
44:08What's happened now?
44:09Anything wrong, Chief?
44:10Plenty.
44:10Round up everybody and hold them here.
44:15She knew too much.
44:17Where'd that shot come from?
44:19I'll tell you in a minute.
44:20This door was open about two feet.
44:30It must have come from the library.
44:37Burnt powder.
44:38The shot was fired from in here, all right.
44:40Where'd you get this?
44:51I found it.
44:51Where, in your hand?
44:52No, I was out on the terrace.
44:53Someone threw it from in here.
44:55Look, I'm doing my best to protect you,
44:56but if you don't stop getting into trouble...
44:58I haven't done anything.
44:59You don't have to.
45:00Trouble just sneaks up and finds you.
45:02Now get in there and go around the living room,
45:04and I'll act as if I didn't know anything.
45:05That'll be easy.
45:06Just...
45:06Where's that girl?
45:12I haven't seen her all evening.
45:14This guy sneaked upon me at the foot of the stairs,
45:16and you tried to make a getaway.
45:17Get him in there and keep him there.
45:19The rest of you too, please.
45:22Where's Martha?
45:23I'll tell you in a minute.
45:27Is this going on all night?
45:31Whatever's happened,
45:32I bet this guy's at the bottom of it.
45:36Is anything wrong?
45:38Haven't I told you why I asked the questions?
45:43Well, now you have two murders
45:44and a half dozen suspects.
45:45What are you going to do?
45:46I'm going to run them all in
45:47as soon as I find the killer's gun.
45:51Where'd you find this?
45:52Found it in the library
45:53near the terrace window.
45:54What a detective.
45:55Spoiling the fingerprints.
45:57Martha Kirk's killer
45:57was too smart to leave fingerprints.
45:59Yeah.
46:03Police headquarters.
46:04Listen, Dad,
46:05you can't run in all that gang.
46:06Well, you'd have to build
46:07a new wing on the jail.
46:08I can't, huh?
46:09Well, at least I've got something
46:10and you've got exactly nothing.
46:12So I'll run things my way
46:13from now on.
46:14Hello.
46:15Go ahead.
46:15Put the skids under yourself.
46:17Break right into the comic strips.
46:19Inspector Queen
46:19arrests all the wrong people.
46:21Well, I've got to do something.
46:22Stand by and watch me
46:23spring into action.
46:24Well, action's something
46:25I could use.
46:26I'll give you one more chance
46:27if you've got anything.
46:28I have a question.
46:30Did you see what Martha did?
46:31Yes, she got shot.
46:33No, no, I mean the way she fell.
46:34She fell dead.
46:35What the thunder
46:36are you driving at?
46:37But the way she fell,
46:39I feel something coming.
46:41Closing that door.
46:44That's it.
46:45I've got it.
46:46Let me, Guffy.
46:47I want to experiment.
46:48Now, you can't shoot Guffy.
46:49I don't intend to.
46:50Martha's murder told me
46:51all I need to know.
46:52Martha?
46:52Certainly.
46:53I'm going to show you
46:53how Craig's killer
46:54got out of that room.
46:55I don't like this.
46:56Oh, Dad, play ball with me
46:57and I'll win you a pennant.
46:58But if you're wrong, son.
46:59Oh, I'll eat this.
47:02Well, I'd hate
47:02to lose it that way.
47:07Where is Martha?
47:09Your sister's dead.
47:10Someone in this room
47:11fired the shot
47:12that killed her.
47:13Guffy.
47:13Yes, sir?
47:15Off with the coat.
47:23Now, put these down
47:24to your trouser legs.
47:25You're making me look silly.
47:27I'm the one who'll look silly
47:28if it doesn't work.
47:29Worked on Craig.
47:30Why not on Guffy?
47:32Ladies and gentlemen,
47:34you're about to witness
47:36an interesting experiment.
47:37I'm going to show you
47:38how the killer of Craig
47:39and of Martha Kirk
47:40got out of this room.
47:41It's a good trick.
47:42We've had too many tricks already.
47:46I don't like this.
47:48Craig didn't either.
47:55Now, I'm the murderer.
47:57I just shot Craig
47:57and took the Chinese Mandarin
47:59from him.
48:00Behold the body.
48:01I'm no body.
48:03I dress him backwards
48:04like the Mandarin
48:04in the stamp.
48:05Why?
48:06Because you're crazy.
48:07But the killer wasn't crazy.
48:09The dressing of the dead Craig
48:10like the Mandarin
48:11in the stamp
48:11would make headlines
48:12the world over.
48:13Spectacular advertising
48:14to acquaint the buyers
48:15with the fact
48:16that the stamp was stolen
48:17for one purpose,
48:18to sell it.
48:19But no one would want
48:19to buy a stolen stamp.
48:21You're wrong,
48:22Miss Temple.
48:23There are many
48:23unscrupulous collectors
48:24that would ask no questions
48:25to get their hands
48:26on the Chinese Mandarin.
48:27So by means
48:28of a fantastic murder,
48:29the stolen wares
48:30are advertised.
48:31Now the counterfeiters
48:32go to work.
48:33There are three
48:33in this ring.
48:35One was a clever engraver.
48:37One was a salesman.
48:41And the third?
48:44Who knows?
48:46Craig became greedy.
48:48Here was the biggest
48:48haul of their careers,
48:49the famous Mandarin.
48:51He steals it
48:51and refuses to work
48:52with the others.
48:53They can't turn him in.
48:54He was right.
48:55But he was also
48:56very wrong.
48:58Craig, the engraver,
48:59is dead.
48:59But why the stiff pants,
49:01the spears?
49:02The murderer used the spears
49:03to make the limp body rigid.
49:04Why?
49:05So he'll stand up.
49:06Correct.
49:07Go to the head of the class.
49:09Now I stand the body
49:10against the door
49:11thusly.
49:14Oh.
49:15I notice I have blood
49:16on my hands.
49:17Blood from the body.
49:18Would you, uh,
49:19just as Lee refer to me
49:21as Exhibit A?
49:23I think fast.
49:24I must wash my hands,
49:25but there's no water here.
49:26And no water
49:27where I'm going.
49:34Tangerines contain water.
49:38I take one.
49:40Now I establish
49:41my carefully planned alibi.
49:44This boat, by the way,
49:45is well oiled.
49:47Watch it closely.
49:48It's me!
49:59It's me!
49:59Safe behind that locked door, I, the killer, wash my hands with the juice of this tangerine.
50:14And I eat the peeling.
50:16Horrible.
50:16But necessary.
50:18Then I hide the stamp behind the picture.
50:20Now the police have something to worry about.
50:22Get me out of this straitjacket.
50:25Very interesting, Mr. Queen.
50:26But how could the killer escape by that room?
50:32You forget, I was in there.
50:34That's right, you were.
50:35Who did I say the killer was?
50:37By Dr. Kirk.
50:38Right.
50:39Don't you get it, Doctor?
50:40You killed Craig.
50:42Stop, stop clowning.
50:44Now what are you going to do with a man like that?
50:47Here I work out a perfectly beautiful solution, and he won't admit he's guilty.
50:50I'd like to oblige you, but...
50:52Come on, Doc, be a sport.
50:54He's worked so hard.
50:55You're joking.
50:57I'm a sick man.
50:58I couldn't...
50:58Now you're joking.
50:59You develop rheumatism very conveniently.
51:01It would give you the appearance of being weak, should we say pale and interesting.
51:05All of this took place immediately on receipt of a letter from Miss Temple, saying she was
51:09bringing the Chinese Mandarin to you.
51:10It just doesn't make sense.
51:12That, my dear doctor, is exactly what you found out.
51:14You set a death trap for Miss Temple, and Craig walked into it.
51:17You've been investing your wards' money in rare stamps.
51:20Stamps that cost plenty.
51:22But the money went into your own pocket, and you gave Irene and Martha counterfeits made
51:25for you by Craig.
51:27And Bronson helped you to dispose of other counterfeits.
51:29But I didn't kill Craig.
51:30I didn't know anything about it.
51:31He did it.
51:32Put him up.
51:34You two, officer.
51:36Get over there.
51:39Now, one move from any of you, and the inspector gets it.
51:43Your theories are pretty good, Mr. Queen.
51:44But you haven't got me yet.
51:47Dr. Kirk.
51:48Dr. Kirk, all the most exciting things have happened.
51:50Look what the policeman gave me.
51:57It's my stand.
51:58The Chinese Mandarin.
52:04Well, there's your case, Inspector.
52:07Where's my hundred?
52:08I'm going to use it to buy my way into the firm of Valerie Queen and Father.
52:12What do you say?
52:14A pair of queens is hard to beat.
52:17Three queens are better.
52:18What do you say?
52:19I...
52:20I pass.
52:30Folks, you must stop wrestling in the halls.
Recommended
52:45
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