Episode 6 The Thin Harts

Based Upon The ABC Television Series Created By Sidney Sheldon

Written By Sara Duckworth

A Street In Bel Air

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are driving home one night in their Rolls Royce Corniche. They are dressed up in fancy clothes as they had just left a concert.  Jonathan is wearing a tuxedo while his wife is wearing a beautiful evening dress. They reach the gate. After a few moments, the gate opens, and Jonathan drives their car through.  The Harts start to drive over the bridge. Jennifer has her eyes up ahead while Jonathan is occasionally glancing over at the peaceful moon up in the sky and at his attractive wife during the drive. A sly grin comes over his face. He slowly slams on the brakes and brings the vehicle to a stop halfway down the bridge.

 

"Darling, what did you stop for?" Jennifer asks as she is taken by surprise. "Is something wrong with the car?" she asks concerned.

 

Still smiling he reaches over and kisses her.

 

"Does that answer your question?" Jonathan asks after he pulls out of the kiss.

 

"It certainly does," Jennifer replies with a grin. "But, Jonathan, what possessed you to kiss me now? Couldn't you have waited until we got into the foyer?"

 

"No, I wanted to get a good look at you just as you are in moonlight. It is just as stunning as you are."

 

"You certainly know how to make a woman feel special. I am just wondering why didn't you just take us to the back hill after the concert at the Hollywood Bowl? I think that would have been a better atmosphere for kissing."

 

"Yes, but the hill would have been too crowded," Jonathan explains.

 

"Crowded?" Jennifer asks with a questionable expression, but still managing a smile.

 

"I wanted to have you all to myself in a place private without anyone nearby and what better place would that be than our own estate?"

 

"Oh, so that is why you were so quiet ever since we left the concert," Jennifer replies seductively.

 

"I couldn't think of anything else other than what a beautiful and stunning woman I have seated next to me and how I was craving to make passionate love to her," Jonathan tells his wife seductively. 

 

"Darling, I love it when you develop these cravings," Jennifer responds as she leans over and places her hands around his neck.

 

"Is there a party or someplace we have to be next week?" Jonathan asks her in a soft and affectionate tone as he looks at her with love and longing in his eyes.

 

"I'm afraid not," Jennifer answers with a chuckle.

 

"What a shame."

 

"You know we could always make our own music at home. We do have a piano in the living room, and the bedroom is just right upstairs," Jennifer says as she looks at Jonathan with love and longing in her eyes.

 

"You name the time and the date."

 

"Well, I'll have to look at my calendar," Jennifer responds coyly as she leans over and kisses him. They embrace and continue kissing passionately for a few moments before Jennifer pulls out of the kiss.

 

"You ready for bed, darling?" Jonathan asks. "I thought we could stay out here in the car for a while and continue making love. Max won't be getting home till late."

 

"That sounds like a perfect way to end an evening, darling, but you had forgotten something."

 

"I could always walk to the house first to get us some champagne."

 

"Champagne sounds perfect along with the moonlight and just the two of us sitting here in our car like a couple that had just gotten married, but the sequel to The Thin Man comes on in twenty minutes."

 

"Oh, that is right," Jonathan replies in disappointment at his own absentmindedness that they had planned to watch the movie together. "Next time we want to watch a movie after a night out, remind me to have Max run out to buy us some VHS tapes so we can record it on the VCR," he tells her as he starts the engine.

 

"I'll be sure to leave him a note too just incase he forgets," Jennifer replies with a smile. Jonathan looks over at her and gives her a wink which in turn she shoots him a wink back. He smiles, and they continue the drive to their house. 

 

Hart House Few Minutes Later

The front door opens. Jonathan is holding the door open as Jennifer walks in.

 

"I'm glad Max remembered to leave some lights on for us tonight," Jennifer comments as they walk into the foyer.

 

"Speaking of Max, I wonder how he is spending his time off tonight," Jonathan says as he shuts the door before locking it.

 

"Hopefully whatever it is, it is better than when he took up Karate," Jennifer replies facing him. "I knew that would never work out for him."

 

"Out of all the things for him to choose from Karate definitely is not for him. I wonder if he had been watching too many reruns of The Andy Griffith Show."

 

"I think it is more like he knows what an average day of living with us is like."

 

"Knowing Max that must be the answer," Jonathan tells her as they reach the stairs. "You go on up. I'll fix us some popcorn."

 

"That sounds delicious."

 

"Yes, if we can't have champagne, popcorn is better than nothing," Jonathan replies as he starts toward the kitchen.

 

"Just don't put too much salt on it, darling. You promised me you would cut back on it," Jennifer reminds him starting up the stairs. Jonathan opens the door to the kitchen and goes in.

 

Harts Bedroom Later

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are lying in the bed together in their pajamas watching the final minutes of After The Thin Man in the dark. Jennifer has her head laying back on Jonathan's legs. An empty bowl of popcorn is on the table by the bed. Jonathan is stroking her hair, gently and slowly, with his hands. He leans over and kisses her on the forehead. Jennifer grins and takes his hand which she kisses. Jonathan wraps his arms around her shoulders as they continue to enjoy the movie.

 

"Go on, you told us before."

 

"You promised you'd keep that a secret. I'll never trust a cop again."

 

"Now listen, if you've made a dicker with the cops, okay. But that ladder's stuff is a lot of malarkey. No one did come down that ladder, and Landis wasn't killed in her place."

 

"The only reason he wasn't killed in her place was that Anderson was found out. Pedro came in here yesterday to lay a new rug. He didn't like the looks of things, so he changed the lock on the door. When Anderson came in he found that he was locked out. Then he heard Pedro telephoning me downstairs. And he shot him."

 

"So what?"

 

"So who is Anderson?"

 

"I'll bite, who?"

 

"Polly, Phil had a key to your apartment."

 

"Yes."

"And so had Dancer."

 

"Yeah."

 

"What about Lum?"

 

"No, of course not."

 

"Anybody else?"

 

"Nobody. Say, what do you think I do, go around stuffing them under doors?"

 

"He's trying to hang this murder on us to protect his family."

 

"If the janitor didn't think everything was okay, why didn't he call the cops? Why does he call you? Because it's a family affair. She knocked her husband off. Everyone knows that."

 

"I didn't."

 

"Yes, you did."

 

"Then you got that lug to throw away your gun."

 

"It isn't true."

 

"That's a lie."

 

"Now Mrs. Landis,"

 

"Mrs. Landis, you knew your husband and Polly were friends, didn't you?"

 

"No."

 

"But you knew there was a woman."

 

"Yes."

 

"You knew this Pedro?"

 

"Lieutenant, suppose we take up this check business."

 

"Wait a minute. Who's doing this, you or me?" 

 

"It has never been my party."

 

Once the movie is over Jennifer gets out of bed. She turns on a lamp and walks over to the television set. She turns it off and crawls back into bed. She looks over at Jonathan to see he is fast asleep.

 

"Jonathan, are you awake?" Jennifer asks as she leans over. She gently touches his face. Her husband is exhausted and sound asleep. "Oh, well, you had a long night. Get some rest. I'll talk to you in the morning. Goodnight, darling." She smiles as she leans over and gives him a kiss on the lips.  She turns around to turn the lamp off and places the covers over her as she closes her eyes drifting off to sleep.

 

Jonathan starts tossing and turning in his sleep as he finds his mind thinking back to an era gone by after watching one of the classic Thin Man movies. Dreaming, he sees in black and white old fashioned opening credits that says.......

Union State 1943

 

Jonathan and Jennifer stand facing photographers and reporters as questions are being shouted out at them as they stand in the middle of a railway station facing the press as they had just arrived back from their honeymoon. The Harts are dressed up in elegant and stylish clothes from the 1940s. Jonathan is wearing a hat and has a trench coat over his arm.

 

"Mr. Hart, how does it feel to be married to a female reporter?" one of them asks.

 

"Yes, don't you believe a woman's place is in the kitchen?" another reporter shouts out.

 

"Gentlemen, please not in front of my bride," Jonathan replies giving them the eye as he takes out a cigarette and lights it with a cigarette lighter.

 

"It's all right, darling. I'm used to having to deal with living in a man's world as they say," Jennifer says.

 

"Mrs. Hart, how does it feel to be married to a man with a wealthy inheritance? Not to mention a retired detective."

 

"Being married to Jonathan Hart is wonderful. I just love him. He is smart, funny, and charming. He is every woman's dream just so you men don't get any idea that I married him for his money. Oh, and I wouldn't say Jonathan is a retired detective."

 

"Oh, why? Has he been asked to help the police solve another murder? Or does he have a client?" the first reporter asks with enthusiasm dying to hear about Jonathan's latest case. 

 

"Please. One question at a time. Being married to a female reporter I think makes marriage life intriguing," Jonathan replies as he takes the cigarette out of his mouth. "I think women should have their way in the workforce. I'm going to be sure Jennifer gets treated fairly and with respect just as all women should. And you can quote me word for word on that."

 

"What is this about not being retired?"

 

"Well, uh, what Jennifer meant was," Jonathan replies reluctantly as he gives her a look of annoyance. "She wish I wasn't retired. She wants me to remain a detective and not just focus on being a businessman."

 

"Jonathan and I met because of a murder case," Jennifer tells them with a proud smile.

 

"Darling," Jonathan tells her through gritted teeth. 

 

"Oh, really? Tell us all about it, Mrs. Hart!"

 

"Yes, go ahead, darling. Tell them all about it, Mrs. Hart," Jonathan says in disbelief.

 

"Well, we both just happened to be in London at the same time. I was on an assignment to interview Jonathan about his new merger. Only he didn't want to speak to any reporters so as fate would have it, we ended up meeting in the bar at The Ritz. I knew he would never would speak to me if he knew I was Jennifer Edwards after trying to reach him for an interview."

 

"She tricked me into believing she was someone else, we wined and dined, we discovered a body, I found out who she really was and was furious at Jennifer for deceiving me, we got involved in solving the murder of her editor, we fell in love, and I asked her to marry me. The end," Jonathan interrupts. 

 

"Darling, that's not how to tell the story," Jennifer says turning to her husband.

 

"If you tell them, we'll be here for days. And I'm just dying to return home."

 

Before Jennifer and Jonathan can answer anymore questions Max approaches them, wearing a chauffeur's uniform.

 

"I'm sorry I'm late, Mr. H."

 

"You're a life saver, Max," Jonathan replies sighing in relief.

 

Max takes the luggage from Jonathan and Jennifer's hands.

 

"Who is he?" the third reporter asks as the photographers takes pictures of a stunned Max.

 

"He's our butler, chauffeur, and friend. And that's all the questions we're going to answer for the day," Jonathan says in a polite, but stern manner.

 

"Oh, please, Mr. Hart. Just a couple of more questions," a reporter in the back pleads.

 

"Not now. Thank you. Come along, darling," Jonathan says taking Jennifer's hand as they start to head out of the station with Max behind them as the photographers continues taking photographs.

 

"Geez! The press are havin' a field day with your marriage to Mrs. H," Max says in disbelief.

 

"That is one of the disadvantages of being a man of wealthy means. It didn't help that Jennifer had to open her mouth to tell them I'm not a retired detective. She wanted to tell the press the whole story of how we met."

 

"I'm sorry, darling. I just think how we met was so exciting. It was so full of romance, intrigue, mystery," Jennifer replies on a cloud nine.

 

"What you really mean is when you met, it was murder," Max remarks gruffly as Jonathan holds the door open for her as they walk out.

 

"I'd like to murder someone right now," Jonathan says with a mischievous grin in his eye as he takes Jennifer's hand.

 

"I hope you're not planning on killing me just yet," Jennifer replies with a grin.

 

"Don't worry, darling. It will be a slow and painful death with no witnesses around," Jonathan tells her as they head toward their limousine.

 

"As long as it is not while we're in bed with the lights out," Jennifer says seductively as Jonathan takes her in his arms. 

 

"Don't tempt me," Jonathan replies seductively before locking her into a passionate kiss.

 

"I'm glad to see the honeymoon ain't worn off," Max comments with a smile as he places their luggage in the trunk.

 

"No, never," Jonathan tells him as he and Jennifer look at each other with longing in their eyes. "Right, darling?"

 

"Right. We'll be in love twenty years from the day we are now. You know, you said you were anxious to get home."

 

"Well, that was a bit of a lie. It was just an excuse to have you all to myself."

 

"Oh, in that case I'm willing to overlook the fact for interrupting me trying to tell the press all about our whirlwind romance."

 

"Words can't describe our whirlwind romance," Jonathan says with a wink before locking Jennifer into another passionate kiss.

 

Just then the press and photographers come rushing out of Union Station as they catch up to the Harts.

 

"Uh, Mr. H," Max replies nervously as he opens the door to the front of the vehicle to get in the driver's seat.

 

"Max, it is can wait."

 

"Sure, if you don't mind havin' your romantic moment captured on film by 'em snoops," Max tells them just as photographers dash up front of the newlyweds. Jonathan and Jennifer turn around in time to find light bulbs flashing in their faces from the cameras.

 

 

A Street In Bel Air

Max is driving Jonathan and Jennifer towards their home in the limousine as Jonathan and Jennifer sit in the back with their arms wrapped around each other's back as they enjoy each other's company.

 

"I can't wait to see your reaction to what I have in store for our homecoming, darling," Jonathan tells her.

 

"Darling, as long as we have each other and are alone I don't need any surprises."

 

"Well, since you feel that way I'll just forget the whole thing," Jonathan replies casually.

 

"Don't listen to me," Jennifer tells him with a smile.

 

"All right," Jonathan replies nonchalantly turning his head away from her.

 

"All right, what?" Jennifer asks with a curious expression.

 

"What did you say?" Jonathan asks turning back to her.

 

"I was asking you what you meant by all right?"

 

"Sorry, darling. I wasn't listening. What did you say?" Jonathan asks turning back to her with a teasing smile.

 

"Oh, Jonathan! That wasn't what I meant," Jennifer replies with a grin.

 

"What did you mean?" Jonathan asks.

 

"You rat!" Jennifer exclaims chuckling.

 

"Now is that any way to talk to your husband after our honeymoon?" Jonathan asks looking her in the eye.

 

Jennifer leans over and gives him a kiss.

 

"Is that better?"  

 

"Very much so, but I would like one more kiss. Just so I can compare them," Jonathan replies seductively.

 

"Are you getting particular about my kisses?" Jennifer asks seductively.

 

"No woman can even be in the same league as you."

 

"Does that mean you find all of me desirable?" Jennifer asks playfully.

 

Jonathan leans over and locks her into another passionate kiss. "Does that answer your question?" Jonathan asks pulling out of the kiss as Max is pulling the car up the driveway to the main house.

 

"It sure does," Jennifer replies seductively. She gives him a wink.

 

As they reach the main house there are countless cars parked in front of their residence and the guesthouse. Max is forced to slow down and bring the vehicle to a stop.

 

"Max, what is going on? What are all the cars doing here?" Jonathan asks as he and Jennifer look around in surprise at all the cars gathered outside their home.

 

"I dunno. I'm just as shocked as you are, Mr. H," Max replies in disbelief.

 

"I'm wondering how they got through the gate," Jennifer comments.

 

"Say, did you tell anyone when Mrs. H and I were arriving back from Napa Valley, Max?" 

 

"Well, uh, I uh, what I mean is, Mr. H, I just happened to mention it to some friends and business associates of yours that you and Mrs. H were comin' back this afternoon on the train," Max replies, embarrassed, realizing what he has done.

 

"Terrific," Jonathan says in disappointment.

 

"I'm sorry. I didn't think they'd be plannin' a homecomin' party."

 

"We have to do something. We can't just sit here with all your friends waiting on us inside," Jennifer says. "They are our guests even though we didn't invite them."

 

"Let's see what's going on. If we're lucky, maybe we won't be noticed," Jonathan replies as they open the doors and get out of the car. "You stay here and keep the motor running. We may need to make a break for it," Jonathan says turning to Max who is still seated at the wheel.

 

"Right."

 

Jonathan and Jennifer walk up to the front of the house. Quietly and discreetly, Jonathan opens the front door. As they look in they see music playing on a phonograph, people dancing, some guests talking among themselves, and the rest of the uninvited guests helping themselves to the drinks at the bar. The living room is completely crowded with people. They are so busy enjoying themselves they don't notice Jonathan and Jennifer peaking in through the door.

 

"Looks like they couldn't wait for us," Jonathan says in a whisper.

 

"I can just imagine the mess Max will have to clean up."

 

"I just hate to think of all my Manhattans and Martinis being gone. Max just went shopping yesterday."

 

"I think someone forgot to remind them that Prohibition went out of style ten years ago," Jennifer says looking at her husband in astonishment. 

 

"Looks more like to me they're still celebrating Prohibition being repealed. Do you think we could make a run for it to our bedroom or should we check into a hotel for the night?" 

 

"I was just going to ask you the same thing, darling. Let's check into a hotel."

 

"I was hoping you were going to say that," Jonathan replies as he quietly shuts the door as the homecoming party continues on inside. They walk back to the car. Jonathan helps his wife in before getting into the other side of the backseat.

 

"Where to?" Max asks just as Jonathan shuts his door. 

 

"The Roosevelt," Jonathan and Jennifer tell him at the same time. They look at each other in surprise and grin.

 

"Sorry about spoilin' your homecomin', Mr. and Mrs. H," Max says as he starts the engine. He turns the car around before driving away from their estate. 

 

"Don't give it another thought, Max," Jonathan tells him. "This was one homecoming that was worth spoiling. What better way to celebrate it than being pampered and waited on in a classy hotel like The Roosevelt?"

 

"It'll be like having our honeymoon all over again," Jennifer replies with a smile.

 

"Yes, at least one thing I won't have to worry about is being interrupted with telephone calls and telegrams."

 

"What should I tell the guests when I get back?" Max asks as they drive through the gate.

 

"Tell them we decided to make our honeymoon longer and don't know when we'll be back."

 

"Jonathan," Jennifer says turning to him with a look of disapproval on his last choice of words.

 

"On second thought tell them we'll be back tomorrow."

 

"I'll tell 'em," Max says as they continue heading toward The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on Hollywood Boulevard.

 

 

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

An older man comes into the foyer of the hotel where the Harts' suite is located. He is carrying a Champagne bottle and two glasses on a tray as he makes his way to the door. He knocks.

 

"Room service, Mr. Hart," the man announces.

 

Just a few moments later the door opens. Jonathan comes out wearing a dressing gown and slippers with a towel resting over his shoulder. He has some cash in his hand.

 

"Here you go," Jonathan says handing him the money.

 

"Thank you very much, sir. Would you like me to bring the champagne and glasses into your suite?"

 

"No, just set them on the floor, please. Thank you!"

 

"Very well," the man says giving Jonathan a puzzled expression. He carefully places the tray down. He picks up the Champagne and the glasses which he places near the door.  He walks away. Jonathan smiles as he walks back into the room leaving the door ajar. After just a few seconds Jonathan walks back into the foyer with a "Do Not Disturb" sign in his hand. He places it on the doorknob before picking up the bottle and glasses. He walks back in and shuts the door with his elbow.

 

"Darling, Champagne," Jonathan says from inside the suite. 

 

"Oh, just in time for our bath," Jennifer replies.

 

"Should I pour now or wait until we are completely submerged with bubble bath?"

 

"Hmm, let's wait. Give it a chance to chill in the ice bucket."

 

"Good idea. I can put the ice bucket by the tub."

 

"You certainly know how to sweep a girl off of her feet," Jennifer replies seductively. "What is your secret?"

 

"Now, I can't answer that. Romantic men never reveal their secrets," Jonathan replies seductively. 

 

The Los Angeles Tribune Several Days Later

Jennifer is sitting at her desk typing away on the typewriter in the newsroom where she works.  The Los Angeles Tribune is bustling with activities as the other reporters are receiving information by telephone from field reporters, waiting for their assignments, and studying a variety of newspapers on the desks. Telephones are ringing around the clock. Newspapermen are smoking a cigarette or a cigar as they go about their daily routines. Some of them are enjoying a glass of liquor.  There is a fan on Jennifer's desk as it is steaming hot from the unbearable heat. There are fans on the desks of many journalists. Jennifer sighs and turns the fan around to face her directly.

 

"Can it get anymore hot in here?" Jennifer whispers out loud to herself as she takes a break from typing and looks over what she has written so far to check her work. Dying of thirst and needing a break, she rises from her seat and walks over to the water cooler in the back. She picks up a plastic cup and pours herself a drink. Just then an older man, with glasses, walks over to the cooler.

 

"Finding it difficult to bear the heat, Jennifer?" he asks as Jennifer takes a sip of water while he pours himself a cup.

 

"Yes. I lived in New York so I didn't think California's heat would be anything like this."

 

"How do you like working here? I think you're doing just fine. I'm sure Mr. Hart is proud of you," he says  taking a sip.

 

"Other than the heat I enjoy working here despite the occasional eye glancing I get since I'm the only female on the payroll. And yes Jonathan is my biggest fan."

 

Another older man walks over to them.

 

"Jennifer, Mr. Burns wants to see you in his office," he tells Jennifer with a smile.

 

"Is it an assignment, Walter?" Jennifer asks as she takes one final sip before throwing the cup into the trashcan.

 

"I don't know. He just said to tell you to come into his office."

 

"Thank you," Jennifer tells him as she leaves the two men by the cooler. She heads toward a private office in the back. She knocks on the door. 

 

"Come in," she hears a male voice say from inside.

 

She opens the door and walks in. An older man in his fifties sits at his desk as he pours himself a glass of bourbon. 

 

"Oh, Jennifer, take a seat, please," he says pointing to a chair in front of his desk.

 

Jennifer walks over to the chair and takes a seat. 

 

"Have a glass of bourbon?"

 

"No, thank you," Jennifer replies with a smile. "I hope I'm not in any sort of trouble, Mr. Burns."

 

"No, I just wanted to ask you a favor," Mr. Burns says as he takes a sip. "You know ever since you started working here I've been very impressed. You're one of the best reporters I have. I know you've only started working here a few days ago, but from what I had seen from the articles in my paper your writing style is one of a kind."

 

"Thank you. I never expected to receive that kind of praise considering I am a woman and like you said I just started working for your paper," Jennifer tells her editor, taken by surprise at his high praise of her journalism skills. "Is there some kind of special assignment you want me to take on?"

 

"In a way, but this one will combine business with pleasure since it will be at a party being held at my house. There is going to be my wife, some friends, some family, and other guests attending the dinner party. There is one particular guest I'm sure you've heard of. He is an inventor. In his spare time he collects rare antiques. He is somewhat of an eccentric, but he is quite a character."

 

"Yes, I know who you're talking about. I've heard Walter and other reporters mention him coming by now and then. Is he the one you want me to write an article about?"

 

"He is, but he can't know anything about it. Alexander Richardson can't stand reporters. I invited him on the pretense the dinner party is being held in his honor of just returning from Europe. In a way it is since he will be the center of attraction during the evening. I want you to bring Jonathan along. That way Alexander shouldn't catch on to my real intention of the party being given."

 

"Mr. Burns, how am I going to interview the man if he can't stand reporters?"

 

"He has one weakness or two that is. One is he drinks a lot and two when he drinks he talks a lot about himself and his activities. When that happens I want you to give your full attention. Jot down notes while reading a magazine or however you wish to handle the assignment. I'm leaving that entirely up to you. I expect you at my house at 7:00 sharp. I'll write down the address." He puts the glass down and starts to write his address down on a piece of paper.

 

"I'm flattered you asked me for this assignment, but I don't feel comfortable writing the article behind his back."

 

"Really? I heard you chased Jonathan all over trying to get a story out of him. You even tricked him into believing you were someone else."

 

"Unfortunately what you heard is true, but I'm not proud of what I did. After lying to him I felt guilty though I did find myself falling for him. I promised myself that I would not deceive anyone ever again to get an interview. Not just for myself, but for Jonathan. He is a private person and as his wife I think I should set a good example."

 

"What if I told you you would be suspended or fired?" Mr. Burns asks gruffly giving her a harsh look.

 

"But then there can be exceptions, and I really don't want to risk Jonathan losing his temper knowing I was put on suspension or fired," Jennifer replies.

 

"I thought you would see the light," he says with a smirk as he is finishing writing down the address which he hands to Jennifer who reluctantly takes the paper. "Seven sharp and dress formally."

 

"Naturally," Jennifer replies as she rises and heads toward the door. "Oh, Mr. Burns, just so you'll be aware, Jonathan is not someone you care to face when he gets mad. Just thought I'd give you fair warning so if you threaten to fire or put me on suspension again, you'll know in advance. See you tonight at seven sharp with Jonathan," Jennifer says with a grin as she opens the door. Mr. Burns has a look of wonder and shock on his face as she gives him a salute. She walks out and shuts the door.

 

"Rosalind Russell, if you thought your Mr. Burns in His Girl Friday was tough you should meet mine," Jennifer says to herself rolling her eyes as she walks back to her desk.

 

 

A Mansion In Beverly Hills That Night

That night the hostess is seeing to it that the table and dinner are being prepared to her liking.  She walks into the dining room and watches how her maid is setting the table.

 

"Very good. That will do, Alice. Don't forget tonight is a special occasion so be sure that we are not disturbed."

 

"Yes, ma'am," Alice replies without looking up as she finishes setting the table. 

 

Just then an older man, who happens to be the family's butler, walks into the room. He has a bad back so he is crouched over.

 

"What time are the Harts arriving, ma'am?" he asks.

 

"Seven o' clock sharp along with everyone else. Jennifer Hart is a well-liked guest and employee of the paper so see to it that her and her husband are treated like a member of the family. Mr. Burns wants to make a good impression on them. Knowing Jonathan Hart I'm sure he'll be spending a lot of time in the library. I hear he loves his Manhattans and Martinis so see to it that his glass is never empty."

 

"I can't wait to meet that Mr. Hart. From a picture I saw of him and Mrs. Hart in the newspaper after they got back from their honeymoon he looks so handsome," Alice says over the moon.

 

"Alice, you really should learn to control that imagination of yours! Maybe if you find yourself a more suitable way to occupy your days off than going to the movies, you wouldn't think of men so much!" Mrs. Burns declares in disgust as she gives the maid a look of contempt. She walks away and heads toward the kitchen leaving the maid fuming with anger.

 

"Well, maybe, Mrs. Burns, if your husband was more attentive of you and your needs, you wouldn't feel the need to talk down to me and the rest of the family nearly every minute of every day!" she exclaims as she storms out of the room leaving the butler looking after her with worry and anxiety.

 

"Oh, dear! Looks like another stormy night ahead! I hope the Harts are accustomed to having to deal with dysfunctional families," he says with uneasiness in his voice as he walks out of the dining room.

 

An Hour Later

 

Later that evening the doorbell rings. The butler walks into the foyer and heads over to the front door. Still crouched over he slowly opens it. Jonathan and Jennifer stand outside.

 

"Oh, good evening. Welcome to the Burns' residence," the butler greets them warmly.

 

"Good evening. I'm Jennifer Hart, and this is my husband, Jonathan," Jennifer replies with a warm smile introducing themselves as they walk into the foyer. 

 

"I'll announce you right away. Everyone is gathered in the library," he tells them as he takes Jonathan's hat and jacket. Jennifer hands him her purse. He places their belongings on a bench near the door. "Walk this way, please," he says as he signals to the Harts to follow him. He starts ahead of them. Jonathan and Jennifer look after him noticing the position his body is in. 

 

"Well, walk this way, darling," Jonathan replies as he takes her arm. He bends down and starts following after the butler.

 

"Jonathan, I think you better lay off your Manhattans and Martinis tonight. We don't want to embarrass ourselves," Jennifer replies rolling her eyes in disbelief.

 

"I was just having a bit of fun," Jonathan assures her as he straights his body back to a standing up and straight position just as the butler leads them to the library. He slides open the double doors and steps forward to announce the Harts to their hostess, host, family, friends, and guests gathered in the room.

 

"Mr. and Mrs.,"-he starts to say. "Mr. and Mrs. Oh, dear.  Let me see now," he says with embarrassment as he struggles to remember their last name.

 

"Hart!" Jonathan and Jennifer both exclaim softly through their hand.

 

"Oh, yes," the butler says with a smile. "Mr. and Mrs. Dark," he says with a proud smile thinking he had finally pronounced their name.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer both look at each other trying to figure out how the butler could have mistaken their last name for "Dark."

 

"Does our name sound anything like Dark?" Jennifer asks as she turns to face Jonathan.

 

"Not unless there is something wrong with our hearing that we aren't aware of," Jonathan replies with a grin.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer enter the room just as the butler walks past them. He shuts the sliding doors on his way out.

 

"You'll have to forgive George," Mrs. Burns tells them as she rises from her seat on the sofa and greets her guests. "He can be hard of hearing at times."

 

"I never would have guessed that," Jonathan replies with a smile as he and his wife shake their hostess' hand.

 

"I'm Elizabeth Burns. I'm so glad you and Jonathan could make it. We’re still waiting on our special guest, Alexander Richardson. Come, please. I want to introduce you to everyone."

 

Jonathan and Jennifer follow Elizabeth over to a sofa where her family is seated. 

 

"Jennifer, I'm glad to see you and to finally meet this famous husband of yours," Mr. Burns says extending his hand to Jonathan as he makes his way over from the fireplace. 

 

"Thank you for inviting us," Jonathan says shaking his hand. "It was very kind of you to invite my wife and me to your dinner party," he tells their host with a smile.

 

"Jennifer is one heck of a reporter! We're lucky to have her at my paper."

 

"Jennifer is one of a kind. I consider myself the lucky one," Jonathan replies as he places an arm around Jennifer.

 

"I can understand why."

 

"Henry, do you mind if I introduce Jonathan and Jennifer to everyone else?" Elizabeth asks managing a smile and keeping her composure.

 

"Oh, yes, you're right. I'll have the entire rest of the evening to speak to them," Henry Burns replies as he walks back over to the fireplace where he rests his arm on the mantelpiece. 

 

"Jonathan and Jennifer, I would like to introduce you to my mother,  Eleanor," Elizabeth says standing next to an older lady in her eighties sitting on the edge of the sofa holding a hearing aid as she struggles to hear what is being said to her.  "Mother, this is Jonathan and Jennifer Hart!" she shouts so her mother can hear her just as Jonathan and Jennifer walk over.

 

"Who?!" she exclaims.

 

"Mother, this is Jonathan and Jennifer Hart!!!" Elizabeth shouts even louder causing Jonathan and Jennifer to look at each other.

 

"I think I should have brought my megaphone along," Jonathan whispers in his wife's ear. Jennifer smiles as she places her hand over her mouth to stifle a chuckle.

 

"Oh, Jonathan and Jennifer Hart!" the older woman exclaims finally hearing what her daughter just said.

 

"It is nice to meet you!" Jonathan says raising his voice as he and Jennifer shake her hand.

 

"What did you say, young man?!" she asks.

 

"It is nice to meet you," Jonathan says into her hearing aid in his normal voice.

 

"Oh," the woman replies. "Let that be a lesson to you, Elizabeth," she says turning to face her daughter. "The next time you try speaking to me I suggest you speak into my hearing aid just like Jonathan Hart just did. It is impolite to raise your voice, daughter!"

 

Elizabeth nods her head. She is boiling with rage, but manages to hide it. She wants the evening to be peaceful at her home for a change. Just then the sliding doors open, and the butler walks back in.

 

"Excuse me for interrupting, but dinner is ready. Cook is afraid it may get cold if we wait any longer. Should Alice and I serve now or wait until Mr. Richardson arrives?" George asks standing by the doorway.

 

"Serve now, George," Henry Burns replies from his place at the fireplace. "I'm starved! I'm sure Elizabeth and everyone else is craving dinner. Alexander isn't exactly known for being prompt. I'm sure he'll show up soon after spending an hour in the bar like he does every evening."

 

"Henry, that is very inconsiderate! He is our special guest which is why this dinner party is being held in his honor. We should at least wait for him," Elizabeth says turning to face her husband with a look of disdain on her face.

 

"Oh, Elizabeth, really! If Alexander would learn to be prompt we wouldn't be wasting a minute bickering. Go ahead and bring out the meal. Mr. Richardson will just have to suffer if it gets too cold before he gets here," he tells the butler as he makes toward the door. Elizabeth stares after him with embarrassment and anger. 

 

"Well, let's go in everyone," she says rising from her seat. "Dinner is ready."

 

"What did you say?!" Eleanor asks raising her voice once again.

 

Elizabeth sighs before replying. "Dinner is ready, mother!" she yells turning to face her.

 

"Oh. Why didn't you just say so?" the older woman asks as she picks up her cane that is laying against the table. Holding onto the cane she uses it to help her rise from her seat. She and everyone else start to head out of the room with the exception of Elizabeth and the Harts. Elizabeth sighs and shakes her head in disbelief wondering how she is ever going to get through this evening.

 

"Jonathan, Henry told me you love Manhattans and Martinis. I told George to be sure your glass would never be empty," she tells Jonathan with a smile. 

 

"Thank you very much for your hospitality, Mrs. Burns," Jonathan replies.

 

Elizabeth nods and starts to head out of the library.

 

"Why do I get the feeling you're going to need to indulge tonight, darling?" Jennifer asks turning to her husband.

 

"So far this hasn't exactly been a pleasant evening. It looks like the Burns and everyone else in this household only tolerate one another. I'm glad your editor didn't wait to invite us to the annual Christmas party," Jonathan remarks as he takes his wife's arm. 

 

"I can just imagine this household's festive spirit during the holidays," Jennifer replies with a  sigh as they head out of the library to join everyone else in the dining room for dinner.

 

 

The Living Room Later

A short time later Jonathan is sitting in the living room with the rest of the men. He sits in a chair with a glass of a Manhattan in his hand and a cigar in the other as he carries on a pretend conversation since the other gentlemen had fallen asleep. They are sound asleep and snoring. One of them is lying on their back on a sofa while the others are resting in a chair slumped down. 

 

"You don't say?" Jonathan asks with a look of surprise on his face. "How astounding! Do tell me more," he says as he takes a sip of his drink. "This is such an interesting conversation! I was starting to wonder if the entire evening was just going to be a bore. You gentlemen certainly do know how keep a guest enjoying themselves."

 

The gentleman on the sofa sneezes.

 

"Bless you! Do you need a handkerchief? Good thing because my wife only has one, sir. Pardon me? Could you repeat that? You certainly live such a charmed life. I can't wait to tell Jennifer. She loves to travel. Do you know the next time you plan on going to Cuba? Next year? Oh, let me know when. You don't mind if we tag along, do you? We have our own transportation so you don't have to worry about us intruding on you and your wife's holiday," Jonathan continues as he places his cigar in an ashtray on a table by his chair. "I wonder what the women are discussing."

 

Just then the sliding doors to the room open, and Jennifer sticks her head in.

 

"Darling, could I have a word with you?" she asks with worry in her voice as she stands in the doorway.

 

"Certainly, darling," Jonathan replies as he rises. "I always have time for a beautiful lady. Well, if you'll excuse me my wife wants a word with me. Would you kindly pardon me? Thank you very much! Yes, we must chat more often. I'll keep in touch," Jonathan says with a smile as he looks at the worn out men before him. Jennifer turns her head in their direction. A grin comes over her face at seeing her husband carrying on an acted out conversation while the other men are sleeping.

 

"What is it, darling?" Jonathan asks as he walks over to Jennifer. "How was dessert and coffee?"

 

"Other than the bickering, it was pleasant. Jonathan, what are you doing carrying on a pretend conversation?"

 

"Just trying to make the best out of a dull evening. You ready to thank our host and hostess for a delightful evening and head back home?"

 

"I could think of nothing better, but Alexander wants you to meet him in the library privately. He said it is a matter of most importance."

 

"Perhaps he wants to know where is the best place to buy a Manhattan and Martini," Jonathan replies in a dry wit.

 

"Darling, this is no time to joke around. He is drunk, and I'm afraid he is on the verge of a nervous breakdown. He seems very distressed about something. He has been acting strange all through dinner and dessert."

 

"Then I better have a word with him. I'll go to him at once," Jonathan says seriously wondering what it is going on with the guest of honor.

 

Jennifer nods. Jonathan heads out of the room. 

 

"Thank you for keeping my husband engaged, gentlemen," Jennifer says turning to the sleeping gentlemen. She slides the doors shut quietly.

 

The Library 

 

Alexander Richardson stands in the library pouring himself a Brandy. His hands are trembling nervously. He manages to pour without spilling any of the Brandy. He places the stopper back into the decanter carefully. Just as he is about to take a sip of his drink, Jonathan's voice can be heard.

 

"Mind if I help myself?" Jonathan asks standing in front of the room.

 

"Not at all. Jonathan Hart, right?" he asks managing a slight smile.

 

"Yes, I'm Jonathan Hart," Jonathan replies as he makes his way over to the bar where Alexander is standing. "Jennifer said you wanted to speak to me," he adds as he walks to the back of the bar. He picks up a bottle of a Manhattan and starts to pour himself another drink.

 

"I knew you love your Manhattans and Martinis, but I never would have guessed a distinguished detective like yourself would drink to excess."

 

"On second thought I think I'll just finish what I have left in my glass," Jonathan replies taken off guard by the comment as he is about to pour. He places the cap back on the bottle. "You mean a former detective. I am retired," Jonathan tells him as he finishes his drink.

 

"Jennifer said you are a detective. Did I not hear her right?" Alexander asks confused and with worry on his face which he is trying desperately to hide.

 

"You did. Just ever since Jennifer and I solved that case of her murdered editor in London, she's been excited by danger and adventure. I want to put my gumshoe skills to rest and just focus on a less hectic life of a businessman. I've been a businessman for years while being a detective on the side. I rather just settle down with Jennifer and devote my entire life to her and my company."

 

"I think I can understand why, but Jonathan this is a matter of life and death. I need someone I can trust. I want to you to make an exception in my case."

 

"Why me? We just met."

 

"Because you have an honest and well-known reputation. I've read about the many cases you helped the police solve over the years."

 

"Can't you just go to the police if this is a matter of life and death?" Jonathan asks as he walks over to a sofa.

 

"I wish, but I can't wait. I need help tonight. My life is in danger. Someone is planning to kill me. No one in this house can be trusted with the exception of you and Jennifer."

 

"If you don't trust anyone here why did you accept the invitation?" Jonathan asks as he sits down.

 

"I only accepted so I could get a chance to meet you," he explains as he takes a huge gulp of his drink.

 

"Just out of curiosity have you ever thought of looking me up in the directory?" 

 

"I did, but I wanted to speak to you here tonight in person. After meeting the members of this household I thought you would see for yourself the family is what would be considered dysfunctional. If I told you I think anyone here is planning to kill me you may not had taken me seriously. Will you help me, Jonathan, please?"

 

"Since you are in fear of your life and it is a bit late to look up a detective in the directory, I think helping you is the least I could do. I'll need you to tell me what this is all about."

 

"It has to do with an antique that is worth over a thousand dollars. Everyone I know wants their hands on it. I found it in Europe."

 

"Considering that are lots of antiques worth killing for could you be more specific?" Jonathan asks leaning forward.

 

"I can't. You'll have to look for it. I have it hidden. It is hidden someplace that not even the police could find it. I invented that hiding place myself."

 

"Could you at least give me a clue what I am supposed to be looking for?"

 

Meanwhile George stands outside in the hall by the sliding doors listening in on Jonathan and Alexander's conversation. He is very interested and curious to what they're discussing.

 

"You'll know when you find it, Jonathan. This antique is priceless, and the only one that is different from the others I own," Alexander replies as he takes a sip while walking over to Jonathan.

 

"Alexander, I'm very intrigued, but this sounds like something better suited for Sam Spade."

 

"Jonathan Hart, I have every bit of faith and confidence in you. Sam Spade couldn't do better himself."

 

Just as Alexander is about to say something else he grabs his throat as he gasps. He looks over at Jonathan weakly and with deep fear in his eyes. 

 

"What's wrong?" Jonathan asks rising from his seat deeply troubled. "Do I need to call a doctor?" 

 

"Just promise me you'll protect the priceless item," Alexander replies struggling to breathe. "Promise me you'll protect it from falling into the wrong hands. Promise me."

 

"I promise. What is it?" Jonathan asks trying desperately to find out what is wrong with Alexander as he walks over to him.

 

"Protect it. Protect it from them," Alexander whispers as his eyes grow wide. Just as Jonathan places his arms around his shoulders, Alexander's glass falls to the floor, shattering and spilling the remaining Brandy onto the fancy and expensive carpet. His eyes shut, and he collapses on the floor. Jonathan is stunned at what has happened! He reaches over and feels for a pulse. What he suspected is confirmed! The guest of honor is dead! Before he can react to this horrifying situation the sliding glass doors open, and Alice walks in.

 

"Pardon me, Mr. Hart, but Mrs. Burns wondered-" she starts to say when she sees Alexander's dead body slumped on the floor. She puts her hands up to her face and bursts into a blood-curdling scream!!! 

 

The Burns' Mansion A Short Time Later

Soon after the shocking death of Alexander Richardson the mansion is taken over by the police. Jonathan stands in the back of the library with his arm wrapped around Jennifer's shoulder as they both watch Alexander's body, which is covered up, being carried out of the room by two ambulance attendants.  Henry Burns, Elizabeth Burns, her mother, Eleanor, George, Alice, the other relatives and guests, and the rest of the servants are standing about the room being questioned by a police officer.

 

"What a way to end a dinner party," Jennifer replies in a state of shock breaking the silence as she stares out into the hall watching the body being carried out of the mansion.

 

"Yes, I'm afraid this is one ended in tragedy, darling," Jonathan agrees who managed to recover from his state of shock as he comforts his wife.

 

The officer, who is in a trench coat and hat, makes his way over to Jonathan and Jennifer. "Mr. and Mrs. Dark?" he asks.

 

"It's Hart," Jonathan replies.

 

"But the butler told me it was Dark?" he asks confused.

 

"Yes, well, he can be hard of hearing."

 

"What was your reason for being at this dinner party? I thought you were retired, Mr. Dark. I mean Mr. Hart."

 

"We were here because my wife was invited by her boss, Mr. Burns."

 

"Yes, I'm a reporter for The Los Angeles Tribune," Jennifer explains. "He wanted me to interview Mr. Richardson for a story," she tells the officer much to Jonathan's shock. He gives his wife a look of disappointment and bewilderment.

 

"Mr. Richardson did not give interviews."

 

"I know. Mr. Burns wanted me to take advantage of his drunken state and to question him without his knowledge," Jennifer replies embarrassed. 

 

"I see."

 

"Would you excuse us for a moment? I would like to ask my wife a personal question. We'll just be out in the hall."

 

"Does it have anything to do with Mr. Richardson's murder?"

 

"Not directly."

 

"Very well. Don't take too long, Mr. Hart. I would like to wrap up this interrogation. I've been on my feet all day. I just want to get home and relax," the officer replies with a bit of annoyance.

 

"I know the feeling," Jennifer comments.

 

Jonathan takes Jennifer gently by the hand and leads her out to the hall. He shuts the sliding doors quietly and turns to his wife. There is a look of annoyance and some anger on his face.

 

"Jonathan, I know what you're thinking. I didn't have a choice. Mr. Burns had my back to the wall. He threatened to fire me if I didn't question Alexander."

 

"Then why didn't you tell me? I could have confronted Mr. Burns," Jonathan replies raising his voice, but still managing to stay calm.

 

"For exactly the same reason you're acting right now. You would had gone in there and lost your temper. I love it when you're forceful, but I didn't think it was worth it. I did make it clear if he threatened me again he would have you to deal with. I'm sorry I didn't confide in you."

 

Jonathan looks at her seriously for a few seconds while he is thinking how he should react to Jennifer's confession.

 

"You know something?" Jonathan asks.

 

"What?"

 

"I love it when you're forceful yourself, darling," Jonathan replies with a smile as he takes her in his arms. "You're right. I would had gone in there and lost my cool. I'm glad I have you to keep me levelheaded."

 

"That what wives are for," Jennifer tells him with a wink as Jonathan locks her into a kiss. After a few moments Jonathan pulls out of their kiss.

 

"Am I forgiven?"

 

"On the condition that we won't go to anymore dinner parties for a long while," Jonathan replies seductively.

 

"Oh, that is something you wouldn't have to ask. I don't want to go out for another dinner party for a year. For the time being I just want a nice and relaxing dinner at home or a restaurant with the tall and handsome gentleman facing me," Jennifer replies seductively.

 

"MR. AND MRS HART!!!" the officer shouts from the library.

 

"We'll be right there," Jonathan shouts back. They pull out of the embrace. Jonathan takes Jennifer by the hand. He opens the sliding doors, and they walk back into the library. The lieutenant is questioning Alice who is distraught and beside herself. Lieutenant Levene is questioning her by a sofa. 

 

"I know this must be very difficult for you, but exactly what time did you enter this room?"

 

 "I don't know. I am still in shock that poor Mr. Richardson is dead," Alice replies as she wipes away her tears with a handkerchief. 

 

"Poor Mr. Richardson indeed!" Henry Burns exclaims in disgust from his place at the fireplace as he is smoking a cigar.

 

"You don't seem to disturbed by his death which I find very strange and disturbing," the lieutenant replies as he walks over to him.

 

"So do I," replies Jonathan as he and Jennifer stand in front of the doorway. "Richardson was your guest. You held tonight's party in his honor."

 

"That is right. You did. I wouldn't be surprised if you bumped him off yourself," the lieutenant replies facing him with a suspicious look.

 

"Lieutenant Levene, if I wanted to bump the man off I wouldn't have invited him to my home, and I certainly would have done it without anyone else around besides the victim himself," Henry replies with a chuckle.

 

"Murder is a serious charge so I wouldn't take Richardson's death as a laughing matter."

 

"Henry, you should be ashamed of yourself! The man is dead! Show some respect!" Elizabeth Burns exclaims embarrassed and outraged at her husband's callous behavior.

 

"Oh, Elizabeth, Richardson was hated by all of us so I see no need to hide it. Anyone of us could have murdered him. We all had a motive except for Jonathan and Jennifer," Henry tells his wife nonchalantly. 

 

"If you hated him so much why did you invite him to your home?" the lieutenant asks.

 

"Richardson had just returned from Europe. I invited him on the pretense it was a welcome home party."

 

"So Richardson was not aware of the real reason this party was being held?" the lieutenant asks turning to look at Jennifer suspiciously.  "And it seems like you were not either?" lieutenant asks turning to Jonathan.

 

"I wasn't until just a few minutes ago when my wife told you the reason we came," Jonathan confesses.

 

"Jennifer didn't have any reason to murder Richardson. She and Jonathan had never met the man until this evening," Henry tells Lieutenant Levene coming to their defense.

 

"Far as I am concerned the Harts are the only people in this house that are in the clear and did not have a motive for killing that inventor. The fact remains that a murder has been committed here tonight and no one in this room is going to leave until I get all my questions answered."

 

"Pardon me, sir," George says walking over to the lieutenant. "You wish to know what time

Alice entered this room? It was exactly nine thirty."

 

"How do you know?" the lieutenant asks. "And where were you when the murder took place?"

 

"He was in the kitchen along with the rest of the servants with the exception of myself of course," Alice replies.

 

"How do you know that for a fact? You entered this room just after Mr. Richardson collapsed.  You can't swear to it!" Lieutenant Levene tells her as he turns to face her.

 

"No, I can't, but George and I have known each other for years! He is not a killer! I did see him in the kitchen just before I came into the room," Alice insists with tears still streaming down her face.

 

"You never did answer my question," the lieutenant reminds the butler. "How do you know exactly what time Alice entered this room?" he asks the butler with suspicion. 

 

"Well, uh, sir. Let me see," George replies thoughtfully taking a moment to ponder. "Oh, yes. I remember now. I just happened to glance at the clock on the wall in the kitchen right before she screamed."

 

"That is very convenient," Lieutenant Levene says his mind wondering whether the butler is telling the truth. 

 

"This is ridiculous, lieutenant. George and Alice had been with my wife and myself for years even before we met the victim. They are not killers! With the exception of myself and the Harts everyone else is capable of murder! I wouldn't put it past anyone else in this room including my sweet and charming wife!" Henry Burns exclaims as he turns to face his wife with a smirk  on his face. Elizabeth is fuming. 

 

"Henry, stop it this instant! Show some decency for once!" Elizabeth demands.

 

"Shut up, darling! It is my house, and I'll behave anyway I see fit!" Henry exclaims as he tosses the cigar into the fireplace.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer each exchange a look between themselves dreading what has now transpired between their host and hostess.

 

"Don't you dare raise your voice to me!" Elizabeth shouts as she rises from her seat.

 

At that moment the rest of the family and guests bursts into a heated discussion with voices raised among themselves.

 

"All right! That is enough! I want it quiet in here!" Lieutenant Levene snaps losing his patience. "You all can fight until you lose your voice after I am gone for all I care!" he says raising his voice. Everyone manages to stop shouting and regain their composure. "Now let's  keep this investigation civil! Mr. Hart, does nine thirty sound right to you?" he asks turning to face Jonathan.

 

"Yes, that sounds right, Lieutenant Levene," Jonathan replies as he nods his head.

 

"All right, Mr. and Mrs. Hart. I don't have anymore questions for you," the lieutenant tells them.

 

"Mr. Burns, it has been quite an evening, but Jennifer and I are tired. If you don't mind we'll be leaving now," Jonathan says turning to face their host.

 

"By all means. Please do. Jennifer must be exhausted, and I want my best reporter well rested   tomorrow," Henry Burns replies turning to face them with a warm smile. "Thank you for attending our dinner party. Despite this evening turning out to be a dreadful bore and nuisance I hope you enjoyed yourselves."

 

"It was an evening Jonathan and I will never forget," Jennifer says reassuringly. "Goodnight, Mr. and Mrs. Burns."

 

"Goodnight, Jonathan and Jennifer," Elizabeth tells her guests managing a smile. "George, show the Harts out."

 

"I'd be glad to," George replies. "I'll show you out, Mr. and Mrs. Dark," he tells the Harts as he turns to face them.

 

"That won't be necessary," Jonathan tells him. "We can find our way out. Thank you. Goodnight," Jonathan says turning to face Elizabeth and Henry Burns as he and Jennifer start to head out of the room. Jonathan opens the sliding doors. Jennifer walks out ahead of her husband. Jonathan walks out and shuts the doors quietly.

 

"George never did pronounce our name right," Jennifer tells her husband with a smile.

 

"He didn't get it right all evening, darling, so why should he have started then?" Jonathan asks with a grin as he and Jennifer head toward the door.

 

 

Meanwhile as the investigation is still carrying on in the library the lieutenant is addressing everyone in the room.

 

"You know ever since I arrived here this evening after I got the call about Richardson being murdered it hasn't turned out the way I planned. Now that the Harts are gone, I intend to get the questions I want answered without anymore drama or arguing between husband and wife. I didn't come here to be a witness to your family problems among yourselves. My job as a police officer is to question everyone at a murder scene and get to the bottom of this homicide. I am going to get to the bottom of this homicide even if I have to drag everyone in this room down to the station if I don't get my questions answered. Now I do know one thing for sure is that everyone in this household hated the victim and had a motive."

 

"How clever of you to notice, lieutenant," Henry Burns remarks sarcastically.

 

"And I would like to add to what I just said that there will be no sarcastic remarks from you, Mr. Burns. Is that clear?" he asks as he walks right up to the editor of The Los Angeles Tribune and stares at him with a harsh look. He taps his notepad with his hand annoyed at how the atmosphere has been in this mansion since he arrived on the scene.

 

"Quite clear," Henry replies with a smile. "Get on with your questioning. You have our full cooperation."

 

"Now someone is hiding something. Jonathan Hart told me on the telephone about his private conversation with Richardson right before he died. One thing I am certain is that the late Alexander Richardson was poisoned. It has been established that someone was out to get him because of a rare antique he paid for when he was in Europe. When he got back to the states, he soon found himself in fear of his life by every one of you because of his recent purchase. Now all I have to do is find out who is the murderer is and how he poisoned the victim's drink. We all know he or she had to do it when they were alone or when someone wasn't paying attention." He turns around and looks at all the suspects that face him one by one. Henry Burns, Elizabeth Burns, Eleanor, Alice, George, the other servants, the other members of the family, and the guests stare at each other with a look of distress and fright with the lieutenant's last comments going through their mind haunting them. Henry picks up another cigar from the cigar box on the mantelpiece.  He lights the cigar with a match as Elizabeth turns to her husband with a look of wonder, terror, and shock. She wonders if Henry could have killed their guest of honor after his rude and disrespectful remarks about Alexander Richardson in front of the lieutenant and everyone in this room earlier. Alice rises from her seat.

 

"Lieutenant Levene, may I go up to my room? I don't feel well," she says with her voice shaking and her body trembling. "I just want to lie down for a few minutes."

 

"Yes, I think you better. You've had quite a shock this evening," Lieutenant Levene replies gently as he walks over to her.

 

"Thank you," Alice replies softly as she starts to head out of the room. As she reaches the doors, she suddenly feels dizzy and passes out.

 

"Oh My God!" Elizabeth Burns exclaims as she bursts into tears upon seeing her maid faint. The lieutenant hurries over to her.  He leans down and pats her on the cheek trying to get her to regain consciousness. "George, pour a Brandy for her," he says turning to face the butler.

 

Hart House Later That Night

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are sitting around the table in the kitchen while Max stands at the stove cooking Jennifer some eggs and bacon.  They are still dressed in their evening clothes as they each drink a cup of coffee.

 

"I wonder who killed Alexander Richardson," Jennifer says thoughtfully.

 

"I bet you it was the butler, Mrs. H," Max replies as he waits for the eggs to be done cooking.

 

"Why the butler, Max?" Jonathan asks as he turns around to face him.

 

"It is always the butler."

 

Jonathan and Jennifer give each other a look of doubt and roll their eyes.

 

"Max, what happened tonight is not fiction. It is real life," Jennifer tells him.

 

"So? You never can tell."

 

"You could be right, but I highly doubt it was George."

 

"I'm with Jennifer on this. It has to be someone we least expect."

 

"I wouldn't be surprised if that Richardson fellow poisoned his own drink. Those inventors are such eccentrics."

 

"Why would he poison his own drink?" Jennifer asks as she places the mug down.

 

"To get Mr. H hot on the trail."

 

"I think that is pushing it," Jonathan tells him.

 

"Just a thought, Mr. H," Max replies.

 

Jennifer just happens to glance over and notice that the eggs are about to burn.

 

"Max! The eggs!" Jennifer exclaims pointing to the eggs on the stove.

 

"Oh, geez!" Max exclaims as he quickly picks up the Spatula. He lifts the eggs off the frying pan. He is about to place them on a plate when they fall to the floor. Freeway jumps out of his dog bed and walks over to the eggs on the ground. He begins eating them. Jonathan and Jennifer watch in amazement as Max turns off the stove.

 

"I guess Freeway will be eating eggs tonight instead of me," Jennifer remarks.

 

"I'm sorry. I'd be more than happy to fry you more eggs. There are a dozen in the refrigerator," Max replies embarrassed. 

 

"That's all right. I'll live without them. Jonathan and I did have dinner."

 

"Just be sure to keep an eye on the bacon," Jonathan reminds him as he picks up his mug of coffee which he begins sipping.  Max glances over at the other frying pan which is cooking the bacon.

 

"Darling, I'm sorry you got dragged into this," Jennifer says. "I never would have thought the night would end in murder."

 

"It is not your fault, darling. But I thought you would be pleased I am on another case."

 

"The way you got involved is not what I had in mind."

 

"There is nothing we can do about it now. Only thing we can do is get some sleep and take it from here tomorrow."

 

Max comes over with some bacon on a plate which he places in front of Jennifer.

 

"Thanks, Max."

 

"No problem. I am just sorry you ain't able to enjoy 'em eggs I cooked."

 

"This will do. At least someone got to enjoy your eggs," Jennifer replies as Freeway walks over to the table. He looks up at her with pleading in his eyes and barks.

 

"No, Freeway, you can't have any bacon," Jonathan tells him. "Max, why don't you pour him a glass of milk?"

 

"Good idea. Milk is healthy," Jennifer says.

 

"Come on, Freeway. Your Uncle Max will pour you a glass of milk," Max tells him as Freeway looks up at him. Freeway follows him as Max heads over to the refrigerator.

 

"Freeway sure has an appetite," Jonathan says as he takes a sip of his coffee.

 

"He takes after his daddy," Jennifer replies with a grin as she picks up a bacon which she begins chewing. 

 

"Well, look who is talking. It is twelve o' clock in the morning, and you're eating bacon," Jonathan remarks teasingly. 

 

"It's my midnight snack. Besides how often do I eat a snack?" 

 

"Rare on occasion, darling," Jonathan replies with a grin. 

 

Jennifer shoots her husband a wink. Jonathan winks back at her.

 

"What do you mean no?" Max asks as Jonathan and Jennifer turn in his direction. He stands behind them looking at Freeway in disappointment. A small glass of milk is placed on the floor. Freeway is staring at the glass, not taking a sip. Freeway places his tongue in the glass and tastes it. After a few seconds, he decides he doesn't like the taste of milk. He walks away and crawls back into his bed. "Talk about picky!" Max exclaims in disgust. He shakes his head in disbelief. He picks up the glass and pours the milk into the sink.

 

"So much for that idea," Jennifer replies in surprise. "Ready for bed?" she asks as she turns to face Jonathan.

 

"That's the only thing that has been on my mind since we got home," Jonathan replies. Jennifer chuckles as Jonathan takes her hand as she rises. "Goodnight, Max," he tells him as they start to head out of the kitchen. 

 

"Goodnight, Mr. and Mrs. H. Hope you have pleasant dreams."

 

He has no sooner gotten the words out of his mouth when a rock comes crashing through their window behind the sink near where Max is standing. Fortunately the rock misses him and lands in the middle of the room. There is a message on paper tied to the rock. Jonathan and Jennifer stare at each other in surprise wondering who threw a rock through their kitchen window and why?

 

"Max, see if you can find that prowler on our property," Jonathan replies finally reacting to what just happened.

 

Max dashes out of the kitchen as he shuts a backdoor behind him on his way out. Freeway comes over to the rock and looks it over as Jonathan looks out of the window where the rock came through while he is careful not to step near where the glass landed.

 

"Darling, see if you can spot whoever threw the rock through the window in the living room," Jonathan tells Jennifer. 

 

Without hesitation Jennifer rushes toward the living room through the kitchen door. She hurries over to the window overlooking the front lawn. It is too dark to see anything. She turns on a lamp on the desk and heads back over to the window. She carefully looks out over the lawn, but she doesn't see anyone. The front door opens which startles Jennifer. She turns around. To her relief it is just Max entering the house. He quietly shuts the door. He holds a flashlight in his hand.

 

"Mr. and Mrs. H!!" Max shouts for he doesn't notice Jennifer as he walks into the living room through the foyer.

 

"I'm here, Max," Jennifer replies as she walks over to him. 

 

"Oh, I didn't see you," he tells Jennifer just as the kitchen door opens and Jonathan walks into the room.

 

"Any luck?" Jonathan asks.

 

"Nope," Max tells them shaking his head. "Whoever broke that window must have taken off faster than a speed of lightnin'. I didn't see any vehicle when I looked through the gate."

 

"I wonder why anyone would go to the trouble of throwing a rock through our window especially at this time of night," Jennifer comments.  

 

"I know. I would say it may had been a practical joke by some kid or teenager, but with the gate and where our house is located that is very unlikely," Jonathan replies as he places his hands in the pockets of his dressing gown.

 

"Should we call the police?"

 

"And tell them what, darling? I know it is twelve o' clock in the morning, but we want to report a prowler throwing a rock through our kitchen window?"

 

"That prowler must be an expert when it comes to trespassin'. He didn't even leave any of his footprints," Max comments.

 

"If we did call the police they wouldn't have much to go on anyway," Jennifer replies rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "I just remember seeing a piece of paper tied to the rock. Maybe someone is trying to tell us something."

 

"Strange way to send a message," Max remarks as they head back to the kitchen. "Haven't they heard of what is referred to as mail?"

 

"If this has anything to do with the murder of Richardson then there was a reason for them not to give us a message like normal people," Jonathan tells him as they walk into the room.

 

As they step into the room they notice to their surprise and alarm that Freeway has the message in his mouth.

 

"Can you believe that?!" Max asks in shock. "I gave that pup milk, and he'd rather eat paper?!"

 

"Dogs are like children. You give them something to play with, and they want to play with something that is the opposite of what you gave them," Jonathan says turning to him as he explains in a whisper. "Get him some food. Jennifer and I will see if we can get the paper from him."

 

Max nods as he heads over to the cabinet. He takes out some dog food.

 

"I say let Freeway have that piece of paper, darling," Jonathan says deliberately raising his voice. "He won't want anymore dog food now anyway." He gently nudges Jennifer in the shoulder.

 

"You're right," Jennifer replies playing along. "Why would our sweet Freeway want dog food when he can have paper for a change?" 

 

As Max opens the food and is about to place it in Freeway's food bowl, Jonathan and Jennifer slowly approach their dog.

 

"Freeway, you can just go ahead and eat that piece of paper," Jonathan tells the dog with a smile. Jennifer smiles down at him. As she is about to pet him, Freeway looks at them suspiciously sensing what his owners are up to. Freeway takes off toward the living room with his mouth shut tight with the piece of paper. Jonathan and Jennifer hurry after him with Max watching in disbelief! 

 

"So much for reverse psychology or in Freeway's case dog psychology," Max remarks as he shakes his head in disbelief.

 

Meanwhile Jonathan and Jennifer are running around the room trying to grab Freeway and stop him from chewing that piece of paper.

 

"Freeway, come on boy. Be a good doggy. Give daddy the paper," Jonathan says in a gentle and loving tone.

 

"That is working really well, darling," Jennifer replies as they stop to catch their breath by the couch facing the desk and spiral staircase.

 

"Do you know a better way? I don't want to spend the rest of the night chasing after a dog because of a piece of paper he has in his mouth."

 

"We could try seeing if he would play with one of his toys," Jennifer replies as she begins looking underneath the couch. Jonathan begins looking under a table as Jennifer continues searching under the couch. Freeway stops running for a moment and watches them with curiosity.

 

"How is it going under there?" Jonathan asks.

 

"I don't see any toy. I wonder if Freeway hid them in the yard outback again," Jennifer replies as she gets up from under the couch.

 

"If he did I'm not going to go outside in our pajamas in the middle of the night to look," Jonathan replies calmly.

 

"Let me try then," Jennifer says as she turns to face their dog. "Now, Freeway, let mommy have the piece of paper. It is very important we have that paper. It may be a clue."

 

"I'm sure he understands every word you're saying. Did you buy him a dictionary for dogs?" Jonathan asks sarcastically. 

 

Jennifer shoots her husband a look. "We tried everything else." "Freeway, let mommy have the paper," she continues as she walks over to him. "Let mommy have the paper, darling."

 

"What a way to spend a night when we could be in bed," Jonathan comments in disbelief as he leans against the couch as he watches his wife try this new tactic. 

 

"Will you let mommy have the paper?" Jennifer asks as she gets down on the floor next to the dog who is staring at her.

 

"Maybe while you're at it ask him where he hid one of my ties he took last week," Jonathan teases as he crosses his arms and takes a seat on the couch as he continues watching.

 

"Freeway, be a good boy. Now open your mouth for mommy," Jennifer says in a loving and gentle tone as she gets down on her feet and hands looking Freeway in the eyes.

 

"That's real good. Remind me to try that psychology on you sometime," Jonathan comments sarcastically with amusement.

 

As Jennifer is about to carefully open Freeway's mouth there comes a growl. 

 

"Freeway, how about you give me the paper and Uncle Max will give you some food?" Jennifer says as she puts her hand away quickly.

 

Freeway opens his mouth. Just as Jennifer reaches over to take out the paper he shuts his mouth before Jennifer is able to get her hand in. He begins chewing the paper.

 

"Freeway, stop chewin' that paper!" comes Max's gruff voice as he walks into the room. "Let mommy have the paper!" he shouts.

 

Startled by Max's tone of voice Freeway opens his mouth and drops the paper to the floor leaving what it is left of it. He hurries out of the room and disappears up the stairs in the foyer. Jonathan turns around and applauds Max.

 

"Bravo, Max. Bravo. Do you think you could ever try that trick on Jennifer?" Jonathan asks in a teasing manner.

 

Jennifer sighs in disgust and lifts herself up. She picks up the paper and walks over to her husband.

 

"Darling, if you aren't careful you may be spending the night on the couch instead of Freeway," Jennifer replies in a serious, but still teasing tone.

 

"What do I have to do to get Freeway to spend the night on the couch instead?" Jonathan asks as she hands him the paper.

 

Jennifer gives him a look. They bursts out laughing, and Jonathan puts his arm around Jennifer as she puts her arm around him.

 

"I guess you really can teach an old dog new tricks," Jonathan comments with a smile.

 

"If you two detectives don't need me for anythin' else I'm goin’ to hit the sack," Max replies with a yawn.

 

"All right. Goodnight, Max," Jonathan tells him with a smile. "And thanks."

 

"Don't mention it, Mr. H," Max replies as he heads toward the direction of the kitchen. He opens the door and walks into the room.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are sitting next to each other on the couch as Jonathan glances at the now half torn and crumbled piece of paper. 

 

 

"Mr. Jonathan Hart,

Mrs. Elizabeth Burns was once arrested for assaulting Alexander Richardson. She is known to have moments of violent anger and a fierce temper. She was once overheard threatening to kill Richardson in public if he ever told the truth about her past. Richardson had many enemies outside the Burns' residence, but none of them had a better motive to kill him than Elizabeth Burns. If you want justice to be prevailed and the murderer caught, look no further."

 

"It isn't signed. I wonder who wanted you to see that message and what their interest is in Richardson's murder," Jennifer replies as Jonathan reads over the message again.

 

"I don't know, but first thing in the morning I'm going to give Lieutenant Levene this message. I only wish it doesn't have our fingerprints," Jonathan replies facing his wife.

 

"Do you think it could be just a way to frame Mrs. Burns?"

 

"It could be, darling, but again it could be someone is just giving me a tip," Jonathan replies rising. "Come on. We've had enough intrigue for one night. Let's get some sleep."

 

Jennifer yawns as she rises. Jonathan takes her hand and they start to head out of the room as they make their way to the stairs. Jennifer takes off her earrings. 

 

Hart House The Next Morning

 

The next morning Lieutenant Levene is looking over the message underneath a lamp in the living room as Jonathan and Jennifer stand behind him watching.

 

"What do you think, lieutenant?" Jonathan asks.

 

"Could be a practical joke," he replies shrugging his shoulders as he turns to face him.

 

"A practical joke?" Jonathan asks in disbelief at what the lieutenant just told him.

 

"You call throwing a rock with a message tied to it through our window late at night a joke?" Jennifer asks just as stunned as Jonathan.

 

"You never know what a person might do just for laughs," he replies as he places the message in a plastic bag. He puts the bag into a pocket of his jacket.

 

"Tell me this then, lieutenant, how could a practical joker know all those facts about Elizabeth Burns' personal life unless they knew her?" Jonathan asks.

 

"If they are facts, Mr. Hart," the lieutenant tells him.

 

"I realize that, but I find it more than strange we get that message the night of the murder. I don't call that exactly coincidence."

 

"I think what Jonathan is saying is true," Jennifer replies. "What kind of person with a weird sense of humor would break a window in the middle of the night with a note? With a rock by itself I could believe that, but with a note I could not, lieutenant."

 

"Mrs. Hart, I realize your husband is a detective, but he is not a member of a police force. We deal with practical jokers everyday. It is one of the things we have to put up with down at the station."

 

"For that reason you don't think Jonathan is qualified to give his opinion? I didn't exactly marry a detective who just got his first big case."

 

"I'm not saying that at all. I think he is more than qualified. I am just saying being a police officer has its advantages over just being a detective."

 

"That is something I never would have thought of," Jennifer remarks sarcastically.

 

"I will have this message checked for fingerprints," the lieutenant replies. "I think you could be onto something. I am just saying not to get your hopes up. I will check with you later. Thank you for calling me, Mr. Hart," Lieutenant Levere replies extending his hand.

 

"My pleasure," Jonathan replies shaking his hand. "I'm always happy to be of help to the police department."

 

"I am just glad Freeway didn't eat the entire paper for his midnight snack," Jennifer comments.

 

"So am I. Goodbye," the lieutenant responds as he places his hat back onto his head. He heads toward the front door and shuts it on his way out as Jonathan and Jennifer look after him.

 

"That is certainly one lieutenant who seems to think there is a logical explanation for everything," Jonathan finally says.

 

"I wonder if a guy came in here and was found dead while we were out what his response would be."

 

"You have to remember one thing, darling. A dead body is not what you would consider a practical joke."

 

"I just hope it doesn't come to that. After last night nothing would surprise me at this point."

 

"You have a such a way with words."

 

"That is one of the requirements of a journalist," Jennifer replies with a smile turning to face him. "Did you know that, darling?"

 

"No, but I do now."

 

"You learn something new everyday."

 

"I'm finding out everyday there is something new I don't know about you," Jonathan tells her with a smile as he puts his arms around her waist.

 

"Oh, yeah? I'm finding out something new about you I don't know everyday myself, darling."

 

"Isn't that such a coincidence?" Jonathan asks. "Or is there some other explanation?" he asks with a wink. His comment causes Jennifer to chuckle.

 

"You are something else, Jonathan Hart."

 

"Did you just discover that today?"

 

"No, that I already figured out soon after I met you," Jennifer replies with a wink. Just as Jennifer leans over and is about to kiss him, Max walks into the room through the foyer.

 

"Mrs. H, don't forget it is time to leave for your job at the paper," Max tells her as a reminder.

 

"I was just leaving. Thank you," Jennifer says turning to face him. "How about a raincheck tonight when I get home?" she asks seductively as she kisses Jonathan on the cheek.

 

"You got a date," Jonathan replies seductively with a wide grin as he gives her a kiss on her neck. 

 

Jennifer picks up her purse from the coffee table and heads out the door which Max holds open for her.

 

"Thank you, Max," Jennifer says. "Tonight after dinner," Jennifer tells her husband as she turns around in the doorway. She waves him a goodbye. Jonathan gives her a wink and a wave as Jennifer heads out. Max shuts the door and turns to Jonathan.

 

"You're a lucky fellow, Mr. H," Max tells him with a grin.

 

"Yes, I am aren't I?" Jonathan replies with a smile putting his hands in his pockets. "I am the luckiest fellow in the world thanks to Jennifer."

 

Front Gate

Soon after driving away from the main house Jennifer drives their red 1940 Cadillac convertible through the front gate.  She looks both ways before driving away from the property. She makes a right turn. Behind her from out of sight are two men sitting in a parked vehicle: a gray Ford. Their car is parked near the gate. They are tall and distinguished older men in their 50s.  They wear a hat and a suit. One of them in the passenger's side is smoking a cigarette. 

 

"All right. Step on it! Follow that Jennifer Hart!" he says in a gruff and stern voice. 

 

Instantly the other man steps on the brake and speeds off following after Jennifer.

 

"When we get next to her, slow down a bit. I'm going to show that Hart dame we mean business," he tells his partner as he opens the glove compartment. In the compartment is a gun which he takes out. He places it on his lap.

 

"You got it, boss," the other man replies with a smile.

 

Hart House

Jonathan is walking down the stairs with his hat on and carrying a briefcase. He is heading toward the front door when the telephone in the foyer rings.

 

"I'll get it, Max," Jonathan shouts as he places the briefcase at the foot of the stairs. The telephones rings again as Jonathan walks over to the table near the door. He picks up the receiver.

 

"Hello, this is Jonathan Hart. Oh, sergeant. The lieutenant just left. Is there something I can do for you? Really? Do you have any idea what kind of rare poison was put in Richardson's drink? I see. Could you let me have that name again?" Jonathan asks as he reaches into his suit and takes out a pen. He writes down the name of the poison on a piece of paper that is laying on the table beside the phone. "I got it. Thank you very much," Jonathan replies as he finishes writing down the name. He places the receiver back on the hook. Max walks into the foyer wearing an apron.

 

"Was that the police, Mr. H?" Max asks.

 

"Yes, it was Max," Jonathan replies turning to face him as he picks up the paper. "The sergeant  told me that the coroner found a rare type of poison in Alexander Richardson when he performed the autopsy."

 

"So where does that lead you?"

 

"I wish I knew. So far it only tells us what kind of poison was used to kill him. One of my employees knows someone who is in the medical profession. He just got out of college, but he is a walking encyclopedia on everything you would want to know about the medical field. I'll give him a call during lunch and see if he has any idea how this poison could be ingested."

 

"I know I ain't in the field, but I'd lay you my last dime that poison was ingested in Richardson's drink."

 

"I have the same feeling. Too much of a fluke he had been drinking Brandy from the library when he just happens to drop dead. I'll call Jennifer when I get to the office," Jonathan replies as he picks up his briefcase. 

 

"Have a good day, Mr. H," Max tells him as Jonathan opens the front door.

 

"You too, Max," Jonathan replies with a smile as he stops in the doorway. "Call to let me know the estimate of replacing that broken window."

 

Max nods. Jonathan walks out shutting the door behind him.

 

 

A Street In Los Angeles

Jennifer is driving down West Pico Boulevard. The men who had been following her since she left the house are closely behind on her tail. As she stops at a red-light, she happens to notice that they are behind her. She doesn't think anything of it since she hasn't noticed these men until now.

 

"Just as soon as this light turns, I want you to drive even faster," the man from the passenger side tells the driver as he looks down at the gun on his lap.

 

"But boss we're right out here in the open. A cop could stop us, and we'll be in jail," his partner replies panicky.

 

"Shut up! If I want your opinion on how to handle this matter, I'll ask you for it. Until then you just keep your eyes on the road and drive like I tell you," the other man tells him in a firm manner shooting him a cold and harsh look. "You got it? If I have to I'll use this gun on you and handle that dame myself," he tells him as he places his hand on the gun tightly. 

 

The partner begins shaking with fear and trembling. "Yes, sir. I got it. You just tell me what you want me to do," he responds back as he stutters.

 

"That is more like it," the other man tells him as he takes his hand off the weapon. 

 

Just then the light turns green. Jennifer begins driving up ahead as the the men continue to chase her. The partner begins driving even faster, but reluctantly and worried. After a few moments of driving Jennifer happens to look over in her mirror and notice his reckless driving. 

 

"Is there anyone who is a resident from California that isn't in a hurry?" Jennifer wonders out loud. 

 

She increases her speed a little just to be on the safe side. 

 

"All right. In just exactly five seconds, I want you to get ready to pull over across from that dame's Cadillac," the man replies as he puts on some gloves.

 

His partner nods and begins counting quietly to himself as his boss picks up the gun.  Without warning and risking their lives as well as the other drivers on the road he drives out of his lane and pulls out in front of some other cars. Those drivers are forced to slam on their brakes to avoid a wreck. They honk their horns outraged at this careless driving and rude behavior to the other drivers on the street. Jennifer who is still driving noticed this and is shocked at what she just witnessed.

 

"What is going on? Road rage or is someone losing their patience?"

 

As the Ford catches up to her they slow down. Jennifer is perplexed and wondering what is going on with the car.

 

"I hope whoever that maniac is driving that Ford isn't intoxicated. I think it would be a little early to be hitting the bottle."

 

After a few more moments of driving Jennifer suddenly witnesses the Ford increasing its speed. The vehicle pulls out of their lane again and pulls up next to Jennifer in the Cadillac in the left lane beside her.  Jennifer gasps as she realizes they had been following her ever since she left the house! The man picks up the gun and aims it at Jennifer through the window. He mouths to Jennifer to "Pull over." Jennifer sighs and nods to him. Carefully and cautiously she pulls over to the side of the street. She brings the vehicle to a stop. The Ford slows down and pulls up beside her. Jennifer rolls her eyes and picks up her purse from the floor of the passenger side. Thinking they must want her wallet Jennifer takes it out of her purse. She rolls down the window as the men come up to her. The man is still holding his gun. His partner is also now holding a gun.

 

"Here, you can have my purse," Jennifer says as she hangs it out of her window ready to just get this stick up over and done with."Can I go now? I'm late for work," Jennifer tells them as she glances at her wristwatch. 

 

"You can keep your wallet, lady!" the man replies sternly. "We don't want money. We want it."

 

"It?" Jennifer asks confused trying to process and figure out what is going on. "Well, I'm sorry, but I don't know what it is so if you'll excuse me, gentlemen," Jennifer replies as she places her wallet on her lap.

 

"Not so fast. We want it now!" he tells Jennifer shooting her a look that shows they mean business and that they are not fooling around.

 

"I'd be more than happy to oblige you, but I just don't have any idea what you're talking about," Jennifer replies nervously as she manages a smile.

 

"Quit stalling! Give it now!"

 

"You keep using it. If you could just tell me what you want, I would give it to you. Is it some kind of code name?"

 

"I said give it now!!!" the man tells Jennifer raising his voice and doing all he can not to lose his temper with her. He points the gun right in front of her cheek. "Or would you rather I just shoot you right now and get it myself?!" he asks in an annoyed and frustrated tone.

 

"Uh, no, that won't be necessary," Jennifer replies trying to think of a way to get herself out of this situation she has found herself in. "Well, uh, it, is, oh you mean that it! Well, why didn't you say so in the first place?" Jennifer asks still smiling. "It is in the trunk. I'll get it for you," Jennifer tells them as she starts to get out.

 

"You stay right where you are and don't move. My partner and I will get it."

 

"That's fine by me. I didn't feel like going in today anyway."

 

"Hand me the key!"

 

Jennifer nods. She opens the glove compartment. She takes out the key and hands it to the man.

 

The men glance at Jennifer before they head to the back of the trunk. Once they reach the trunk they prepare to open it with the key. Just as they reach down to do so, Jennifer steps on the gas and takes off driving fast as possible to get away. The men are furious! They hurry over to the Ford and get in.

 

"Come on! We got to catch up to that dame!" he snaps as he holds the gun tightly in his hand.

 

The other man puts down his gun and puts his foot down on the gas, hurrying after Jennifer, who is way ahead of them!

 

"If this is a typical day in the life of a detective, I'm going to ask Jonathan to retire after this is over," Jennifer says with a sigh as she has been through enough adventure and danger ever since last night. As she continues speeding away she sees to her bad luck that once again the men are on her tail. Feeling her heart beat and not knowing what else to do at this point, Jennifer slows down and stops without warning. This causes all of the cars in front of her and behind to be forced to slam on their brakes. The man, who forced Jennifer to pull over, throws the gun onto the floor in a rage. The men are only a few cars behind her. Jennifer sighs in relief just as a police officer approaches and knocks on her window. He motions for her to roll the window down. Jennifer rolls down the window and smiles at the officer.

 

"Yes, is there a problem, officer?" Jennifer asks with a smile relieved at his presence.

 

"Other than reckless driving, there isn't a problem at all, lady," he replies sternly. "Let me see your driver's license."

 

"I'd be more than happy to," Jennifer tells him as she reaches over to her purse to take out her license. "I can't tell you how much you showing up made my day,” she says as she hands him her license with an innocent smile.

 

The officer shoots her a look of puzzlement as he gets ready to write her a ticket.

 

The Los Angeles Tribune That Afternoon

 

Early that afternoon Jonathan and Jennifer along with Lieutenant Levene walk into the newsroom. They approach the private office. Jonathan knocks on the door.

 

"Who is it?" Mr. Burns asks.

 

Jonathan opens the door, and the Harts enter the office with the lieutenant behind them.

 

"Don't you believe in announcing yourself?" Mr. Burns asks annoyed at being disturbed and his visitors walking in without permission. "Jennifer, what excuse do you have for being late? It is lunch time," he says giving Jennifer a look that shows he expects a good explanation for turning up late for her job.

 

"How about being chased by two men that looked like they were from the Chicago mob and being given a ticket for reckless driving when she was trying to get away while on her way over here?" Jonathan asks firmly, but managing to stay calm and not press his luck.

 

"What are you talking about?"

 

"You know what I'm talking about. It has to do with that antique Richardson was killed for. They were chasing Jennifer because they thought she had it in her possession. I want to know what it is that Richardson found over in Europe and has hiding somewhere."

 

"Just try to remain calm, Mr. Hart. I'm curious to hear Mr. Burns' response myself," Lieutenant Levene says. 

 

"All I know it is a statue. No one has seen it," Mr. Burns replies calmly. 

 

"Are you pulling our leg?" the lieutenant asks gruffly as he gives Jennifer's employer a look of mistrust.

 

"Not at all. But people who are after it know what it is because they have heard of that late eccentric's boasting about its value and how it is one of a kind. If you see his other antiques he has spent a fortune on over the years you would know I am telling the truth. I may be a ruthless editor, but I am not a cold-blooded killer or someone with a sick obsession with some antique that would go to any lengths to have in my possession."

 

"That remains to be seen."

 

"You don't seem surprised, Mr. Burns," Jennifer says taken aback. 

 

"Why should I be? This is the 1940s. It is the times we are living in. Desperate people do desperate things especially when they can get their hands on a priceless collector's item."

 

"And I don't suppose you would have any idea who these two hoodlums are?" Jonathan asks as he places his hands on his hips. 

 

"Why should I? I am in the newspaper business. Solving crimes is not my speciality. That is yours, Jonathan. Jennifer, I am so sorry you had such a nerve-recking experience this morning. Why don't you take the rest of the day off? You can catch up tomorrow," Mr. Burns says turning to face Jennifer as he suddenly puts on his charm and acting concerned.

 

"Thank you, but I already had planned to," Jennifer replies managing a slight smile.

 

"As long as my wife may be facing danger, we're not going to stop until we find out what that statue is that so many people are after," Jonathan tells him as he places an arm around Jennifer's shoulder. "So you may have one less reporter on your staff for the present."

 

"That is all right. She can take as much time off as she needs with pay. She is one special reporter. I'd hate for anything to happen to her."

 

"Thank you," Jennifer tells him as she glances at Jonathan wondering why he is being so  charming and showing concern all of a sudden. Jonathan returns his wife's gaze. 

 

"I'd hate to lose one special lady myself. Jennifer is my wife, and I'm going to do all I can to protect her," Jonathan says as he takes Jennifer's hand. Jennifer smiles and squeezes his hand gently.

 

"You better be telling us the truth, Burns, or you'll be finding yourself down at the station," the lieutenant warns him. 

 

"I wouldn't hold that against you, Lieutenant Levene. It is your duty as an officer of the law."

 

"Yeah, well, let's see how you react if that trip is necessary," he replies giving him a stern look. They head out of the office. The lieutenant shuts the door after them. Mr. Burns watches the Harts and the officer leave the newsroom. He picks up his telephone and dials a number. After a few seconds, his call is answered.

 

"I thought I told you no violence when you were chasing after Jennifer!" he states firmly and with anger in his tone of voice. "Only thing I want is that statue and that is it! Or you can count me out. I don't care about the dough if gunplay is necessary! You can keep it! I have no intention of going to the slammer. The Harts were just here with that lieutenant, and Jonathan Hart was very distraught about his wife being chased by you this morning. Very well! You can have the statue if you can find it! Hart is on the warpath and is going to find it before anything else happens so if I were you I'd be more careful how I'd go about stealing that antique. Don't threaten me! I know enough about you to send you to jail for life! Do you think I am going to risk my life and business by confessing my part to the cops? It's your funeral! Don't call me again!" He hangs up the receiver. "That guy owns gambling joints all over this country, and he wants to waste his time going after some ancient statue," Mr. Burns mumbles to himself as he rolls his eyes. 

 

 

A Street In Los Angeles 

Jonathan and Jennifer are driving down downtown Los Angeles in their Chrysler limousine.

 

"Do you think Mr. Burns was telling the truth, darling?" Jennifer asks.

 

"I don't know, darling. Everyone who is after that statue is capable of going to any lengths to get it," Jonathan replies as he drives.

 

"At least now we know what those men wanted when they forced me to pull over this morning. I wonder what made them think I had it."

 

"Since Richardson asked me to guard it with my life they obviously think we're the logical people who have it."

 

"Only we don't. I wonder what made them certain it is in our possession when we only met Richardson last night."

 

"I get the feeling those men have no better lead to go on than we have, and they're mistaken we do since Richardson put his confidence in me.  Knowing my reputation as a detective they must have it in their minds he told me everything I need to know about that statue so it could be found and protected."

 

"What are you planning on doing now?"

 

"How do you feel like doing some reading?" Jonathan asks as he flashes her a smile.

 

"Reading as in the library?"

 

"We'll see if we can find out all we can about antiques particularly valuables ones from Europe."

 

"The library is one of my favorite places to hang out," Jennifer replies with a grin.

 

"I think I can guess your first one," Jonathan says turning to look at her for a moment with a smile.

 

"Shouldn't we go check out Richardson's apartment before my friends from this morning arrive to get their hands on this statue we're going after now ourselves?"

 

"We will, but I don't want to risk meeting your friends until I think it is necessary after what they put you through this morning."

 

"Frankly I can do without running into them again. I felt like I was suddenly in a gangster picture."

 

"As your leading man I am going to do all I can to keep you away from those gangsters for as long as possible."

 

"Thank you. As the leading lady, I am going to do all I can to help my detective husband solve this case."

 

"Thank you, baby, " Jonathan replies imitating Humphrey Bogart.

 

 

 

The Los Angeles Public Library

 

Jonathan makes his way to a telephone booth outside the library. He opens the door to the booth and gets in. He shuts the door and takes out his wallet. He takes out some change and inserts them into the slot on the telephone. He picks up the receiver and dials a number.

 

Hart House

The telephone on the desk in the living room rings. Max walks into the room and makes his way over to the desk. He picks up the receiver and answers the call.

 

"Hart Residence," Max says in his gruff voice. "Oh, Mr. H. I've tried callin' the office, but Miss Warring said you left for the day. You got a call from that guy in the medical field. He left a message with information you wanted on that rare poison. I wrote it all down. How is Mrs. H holdin' up?"

 

The Los Angeles Public Library

 

"Mrs. H is holding up fine, Max. We're here looking up information about that antique those crooks want. All we know is it is some rare statue from Europe and one of a kind. We think we have found information that can be helpful in our search for it.  Thanks for the message. I'll return the call when we get home," Jonathan replies from the telephone booth.

 

Hart House

 

"It may be a while before you get home. While you were out you got a call from some fellow with a deep voice. He reminded me of George Raft," Max tells Jonathan from the telephone in the living room.

 

"What did he want?" Jonathan asks from the other end of the line.

 

"He wants you to meet him tonight at 7:00 sharp and be sure to bring your wife along as he said word for word."

 

"Where?"

 

"That joint over in Hollywood, Musso And Frank Grill. He also said he'll introduce himself usin’ the word, "it" so you'll recognize him. What is it, Mr. H? Is that some kind of code? Sounds more like a name for a product."

 

"I wish it were, Max. It is the statue. That guy is most likely one of the men chasing Jennifer this morning. We'll be there."

 

"I don't know about this. I think you and Mrs. H shouldn't go alone. It ain't safe from the sound of his voice."

 

The Los Angeles Public Library

 

 

"Since you're so concerned I have good news for you. We're not going alone. You're coming along with us. You'll be in disguise. See you soon," Jonathan replies from the telephone booth before hanging up the receiver.

 

Hart House

 

 

"That's better," Max replies as he hangs up the receiver on the hook. As he is about to walk away from the desk it suddenly hits him what Jonathan just told him. "In disguise?" Max asks in shock. "How did I get into this? Oh, boy. I should have kept my mouth shut. Max, what are you gettin' yourself into?" he wonders out loud. He hears a bark from down below.  He looks down to see Freeway staring up at him. Freeway barks once again.

 

"You think I should go along with this cockeyed scheme of your daddy's?" Max asks the dog.

 

Freeway barks and appears to be nodding his head.

 

"That figures. I'm outnumbered. I don't have a choice, do I?"

 

Freeway barks once again.

 

"Thanks for stickin' up for me, pup," Max replies sarcastically.

 

Musso & Frank Grill That Night

Jonathan and Jennifer are sitting in the restaurant in a booth that night. They are dressed up. Jonathan is smoking a cigarette and drinking a Manhattan as they wait for the man they're supposed to meet. Musso and Frank Grill is a classic New York style restaurant.  Jennifer is drinking a glass of champagne as she gulps down some of her drink. She is very nervous so therefore she decided to indulge herself tonight.

 

"Don't you think you may be indulging yourself too much tonight, darling? That is the second glass of champagne you've ordered since we got here. I don't want to have to carry you to the car if my plan backfires," Jonathan says looking at her with concern.

 

"If I am going to survive this evening, I am going to need all the champagne I can get. I promise, darling, I will only order one more glass," Jennifer replies as she takes another sip. She hiccups. "You're excused," she says as she is beginning to get tipsy from the champagne.

 

"I think you mean excuse me. You're the one who just hiccuped," Jonathan tells her taking all the willpower he can muster to keep himself from chuckling.

 

"Oh, excuse me," Jennifer replies embarrassed. "I think the champagne is starting to take affect."

 

"I can tell," Jonathan comments as he takes another sip of his drink. "I'm glad you're not going to be driving tonight."

 

"Jonathan, what are we getting ourselves into?" Jennifer asks as she gulps down another sip.

 

"I wish I knew. I'm afraid we're just going to have to find out ourselves this evening."

 

"In that case I better enjoy this champagne while I can," Jennifer replies her words beginning to slur. She hiccups once again. "Excuse me, darling. I seem to be having an attack of the hiccups," she says before she finds herself hiccuping again.

 

A waiter comes over and approaches them.

 

"Can I get you anything else, Mr. Hart?" he asks.

 

"Just coffee when we're ready unless you have something on the menu that works miracles for hiccups," Jonathan replies just as Jennifer hiccups again. 

 

"I think I've had too much to drink," Jennifer says as she gulps down the rest of the champagne.

 

Jonathan looks up at the waiter who is giving him a look of surprise wondering why Jennifer Hart is drinking so much champagne.

 

"Just nerves," Jonathan explains. "She'll be all right."

 

"I think I'll get you that coffee," the waiter replies concerned as he walks away from their booth.

 

"That last sip did the trick, darling," Jennifer tells her husband with a smile as she hands him her glass which he takes. He places it at the end of the booth out of her reach.

 

"I haven't seen you this tipsy before, darling" Jonathan comments as he places his glass beside Jennifer's. "I didn't know you could drink that much alcohol."

 

"I haven't had a reason to drink this much Champagne before," Jennifer replies. 

 

A telephone by the entrance of the restaurant rings. 

 

"Oh, what is that? It is so loud!" Jennifer exclaims as she covers her ears with her hands. 

 

"Darling, it is just the telephone."

 

"Oh. For a moment I thought the restaurant was on fire," Jennifer replies managing a slight smile.

 

The waiter returns with a mug of coffee which he places in front of Jennifer.

 

"Thank you," Jonathan tells him.

 

"You're welcome, Mr. Hart," he replies as he takes their glasses away on a tray.

 

Just then the man who had forced Jennifer at gunpoint to pull over approaches their booth.

 

"Jonathan Hart?" he asks.

 

"Yes? Are you the man who asked us to meet you here?" Jonathan asks looking him over. Jennifer stares at him nervously and anxiously.

 

"It," he replies in a whisper.

 

 "I should have known," Jonathan replies. "Won't you sit down?" Jonathan asks just as the man sits next to him. "What's with all the cloak and dagger? You afraid of someone overhearing us?" he asks as he turns to face the stranger.

 

"Shut up and just listen. I do the talking, Hart," he replies in a stern voice. "That was some trick your wife pulled on us this morning, but it is not going to happen again. We want it now!"

 

"Like my wife said we would be happy to oblige, but we don't have it," Jonathan replies. "We didn't even know "it" was a statue until this afternoon," he explains lowing his voice.

 

"Perhaps we didn't make ourselves clear when we pulled our guns. It would be a shame if you and your wife would have to meet the same fate as Richardson."

 

"Don't be too sure of yourself. My wife and I are not without influence," Jonathan responds as he rubs his right ear.

 

"Having influence with the cops isn't going to do you any good. I have influence. I am also a businessman. I have contacts all over the country. And my contacts are not with cops."

 

"I didn't think so. You don't dress like you're from a respectable background," Jonathan replies.

 

"Why you, if this joint wasn't filled with people around here, I'd take a poke at you!" the man says raising his voice as he is furious at what Jonathan just said about him.

 

"Want to try that with me, mac?" Max asks imitating actor George Raft's voice tone as he approaches their booth. He is wearing dashing gangster clothing and spats. He wears a hat and has a cigar in his hand. He is tossing a coin in his other hand.

 

"Who are you?" the man asks surprised the Harts brought someone along with them.

 

"This is Max. He is our chauffeur, butler, and bodyguard. He is also an ex-con from San Quentin," Jennifer explains with a devious grin.

 

"Yes, he was found guilty once of involuntary manslaughter."

 

"Jonathan thought since being a detective is risky, Max would be handy to have around."

 

"But he didn't sound tough when I spoke to him on the phone. I recognize his voice," the man says getting suspicious. He is still on guard, but is starting to wonder if coming alone by himself was such a good idea.

 

"I had touch of the flu," Max tells him gruffly. "As you can tell I recovered quite nicely. Now do you want to take this out back? I can meet you there anytime you like, buster," Max tells him giving him a cold and harsh look. He comes over and gives him a rough pat on the shoulder. 

 

"Jennifer and I don't mind if you would like to excuse yourself," Jonathan tells him. "We don't have any other plans for the evening."

 

"I told you to come alone," the man says turning to face Jonathan.

 

"As you probably can tell by now Jonathan doesn't follow instructions from such law-abiding men like yourself," Jennifer comments with a smile.

 

"If this is some kind of trick you won't be laughing for long, Hart!"

 

"No, we're not pulling any cheap old tricks," Jonathan replies in a dead serious tone as he is shaking his head. "Max, why don't you take our friend out back and show him just how well you are at throwing punches?"

 

"Yes, Max is the best," Jennifer adds. "He took lessons from Tiger Jack Fox."

 

"How about it, buster? Want to go outside and have ourselves our own fight?" Max asks in a menacing tone as he nudges their visitor hard almost causing him to fall from his seat in the booth. Max gets in his face and blows smoke from his cigar. He stops tossing his coin. With all his strength, Max throws the coin onto the table with a thud. "Ain't you goin' to speak up?" 

 

"Yes, I'm going to speak up, Max!" the man replies annoyed and outraged at this intrusion. He rises from his seat as Max steps aside. "The answer is NO! I don't fight. I have bodyguards of my own to take care of that kind of rough stuff for me. I prefer guns. Listen, Hart, you may think you're smart by double crossing me by bringing this punk with you, but it is not going to save you and that dame sitting next to you! When I want something I go after it! We'll see who has the last laugh!" he says losing his temper, managing to keep his voice down. He is looking down hard on Jonathan as he places his hands on the table. He gives Jennifer a harsh look. She manages to fake a smile as a response. He turns his attention to Max who is still tossing a coin and smoking his cigar. 

 

"Oh, give me that coin!" he snaps as he takes it from Max who is caught by surprise. He places it in the pocket of Max's suit. "I think you have been going to too many pictures." He gives the Harts one last cold stare before walking off in a huff.

 

"He certainly gets very sore easily," Max replies as he takes his cigar out of his mouth. He takes the coin out of his pocket and continues tossing it.

 

"Max, you can drop the act now. He is gone," Jennifer tells him as she and Jonathan each exchange a grin.

 

"Oh, yeah. I got caught up in the act," Max comments as he stops tossing. "Say, thanks for askin' me to come along, Mr. and Mrs. H. I never thought goin' out in this disguise would be this much fun. If you don't mind, I'll show off this suit. You sure know how to make me look dapper," Max tells him with a proud smile. "Perhaps I'll get lucky tonight," Max says with a wink.

 

"Just maybe you will, Max. Have fun! Knock 'em dead," Jonathan replies with a smile.

 

"Thanks," Max says as he walks off.

 

"Well, darling, this was worth coming out for. I never thought I'd say this, but I had fun too tonight," Jennifer says as she places her arm around Jonathan's shoulder.

 

"You know something, darling, I enjoyed it myself. Almost makes me not want to retire."

 

"Thank you for saying that. After what we've been through I can't take anymore intrigue, danger, and mystery," Jennifer tells her husband. She finds herself hiccuping again. "Excuse me."

 

"You're cute when you've had too much champagne," Jonathan tells her as he leans over to kiss her. Just as he is about to put his lips against hers Jennifer passes out.

 

Musso & Frank Grill Soon After

 

 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer come out of the restaurant a few minutes later after Jennifer regained consciousness and drank the entire mug of coffee Jonathan ordered for her. Jonathan is helping her to their car as she leans against his shoulder while he has his arms wrapped around her.  Just as they reach the back of their Cadillac in the parking lot some shots are fired at them from a distance from another Cadillac. It is too dark to tell who in the vehicle opened fire at them. They manage to dodge the bullets. 

 

"Get down, darling!" Jonathan orders in a panic as they get behind their car and take shelter as more shots are fired at them. The shots continue for a few more moments. Just as the shots come to a holt and the vehicle is about to take off, Jonathan hurries over to the front of their Cadillac. Keeping himself down he opens the car and reaches into the glove compartment in a flash. He takes out a gun and takes a shot at the vehicle. By now people are coming out of the restaurant and watching as Jonathan fires one last shot at the car just as it speeds away. Jennifer hurries over to Jonathan.

 

"Darling, are you all right? You could have been killed!"

 

"They weren't trying to kill us, darling. They were just trying to scare us," Jonathan replies turning to face her as he puts the gun facedown.

 

"They're doing a good job at that," Jennifer comments with fear in her voice.

 

Max comes rushing out of the restaurant and approaches them.

 

"Mr. and Mrs. H, are you all right? Was that thug takin' shots at you?"

 

"I don't know, Max. It was too dark, but whoever it was they weren't just using their gun for target practice," Jonathan replies turning to face him. They all turn in the direction in which the vehicle was parked where the mysterious person was sitting while firing at the Harts. Jonathan and Jennifer are uneasy and shaken up by this new turn of events and danger they just faced while Max fears for their lives.

 

Hart House 

Jonathan and Jennifer walk into the foyer as Max holds open the door for them. Jonathan is still holding onto his wife as he helps her into the house. 

 

"You want me to make her some coffee, Mr. H?" Max asks as he takes his hat off which he places on a table by the door.

 

"Yes. Bring it up to our room. I'm going to have Jennifer lie down," Jonathan replies as he starts to help Jennifer up the stairs just as Max walks into the living room.

 

"Uh, I think you should call the cops first," Max says.

 

"Don't worry. I'll call Lieutenant Levene about the shots tomorrow morning."

 

"It ain't the shots I'm thinkin' of. It is more like murder," Max tells him as he turns around to face them with a look of shock on his face.

 

"What are you talking about? What murder?" Jennifer asks with confusion as worry comes over her and Jonathan's face.

 

"That murder, Mrs. H!" Max exclaims pointing a finger to something in the living room across from them in the foyer.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer give each other a look of fear as they reluctantly come up to Max and look at what he is pointing at. Jonathan and Jennifer see to their shock and horror that George is lying on the floor motionless behind a couch with his eyes shut!

 

"It's George!" Jonathan and Jennifer both exclaim at the same time.  Jonathan helps Jennifer to a barstool facing the bar before going over to George's dead body. He turns him over and sees that George has been shot dead. He sighs before turning to Max.

 

"Max, call Lieutenant Levene," Jonathan tells him.

 

Max heads off into the kitchen. He makes his way into the room through the door.

 

Hart House

Several hours later after George's body had been taken away and the police arriving at their house along with their experts in investigating homicides at crime scenes Jonathan and Jennifer are both lying in bed next to each other with their back turned. 

 

"Darling, are you awake?" Jonathan asks finally breaking the silence between his wife and himself.

 

"At one o' clock in the morning after a night ending in danger and murder why would I be sleeping?"

 

"I didn't think you would be. I just thought I'd ask," Jonathan replies. He reaches over and turns on a lamp on his side of the bed. He sits up in bed. Jennifer half a sleep sits herself up in bed. 

 

"Do you want to talk about it?" Jonathan asks gently as he turns to look at her.

 

"Oh, I am all right, darling. I was just wondering why George was killed. It doesn't make sense," Jennifer says perplexed as she turns her head and pillow around facing Jonathan.

 

"No, it doesn't. I've been wondering the same thing ever since we found him dead."

 

"Do you think Max could have been right all along? It was the butler."

 

"No, I think George being killed only proves he didn't kill Alexander Richardson. Unless he had a partner and she or he had a good reason for bumping him off tonight."

 

"This mystery is getting more mysterious. It is something like right out of a novel or a movie."

 

"Yes, the thing that bothers me most is why would someone kill George and then leave him here in our house?"

 

"It was to scare us to stop us from investigating." 

 

"I know, but why would they want to kill him? Did he plot to kill Richardson or did he find out who was responsible which led him to being killed?"

 

"I wouldn't be surprised if it was our friend who paid us a visit at our booth tonight."

 

"I think we can assume gangsters aren't involved unless they had a better reason to kill him than a statue."

 

"Darling, isn't it about time we go over to Richardson's apartment and see if we can find that statue?"

 

"Well, darling, it just so happens I was just going to ask you if you would accompany me tomorrow," Jonathan replies with a smile.  

 

"I was hoping you would ask," Jennifer tells him with a smile. "Since we're going to have another hectic day tomorrow we really should find a way to get some sleep."

 

"You are so right, darling," Jonathan replies seductively. "And I know just the right way for us to get some shuteye," he says as he places an arm around her back. He leans over and gives her a kiss on the lips. Jennifer grins and places her arm around his back before giving him a kiss. "Shall we?" he asks as he turns around to turn off the lamp. Jennifer nods her head. Jonathan turns off the lamp.

 

"Jonathan, move your foot," Jennifer tells him with a chuckle.

 

"Sorry, darling," Jonathan replies.

 

 

Front Gate The Next Morning

 

The front gate opens, and the Harts' Cadillac drives through with Jennifer driving at the wheel while Jonathan is sitting in the passenger side of the vehicle. They turn left and drive away. 

 

"Is anyone following us?" Jennifer asks as she still looks up ahead while driving.

 

"So far our friends don't seem to be on our tail," Jonathan replies looking in the mirror from his side of the vehicle. "I wouldn't hold my breath, darling. Unless they decided to sleep in they'll show up."

 

"I'm hoping they decided to sleep in, darling," Jennifer replies.

 

"I forgot to tell you something last night," Jonathan says.

 

"Oh, what is that?" Jennifer asks with a grin.

 

"I forgot to mention what a good sport you're being in all this," Jonathan replies with a smile.

 

"Considering I got you into this I don't think I have a choice. Will you promise me something, darling?"

 

"Of course. I'd promise you anything."

 

"I want you to promise me this will be your last case. I've had enough intrigue, danger, and mystery to last me the rest of my life."

 

"I have a confession to make. So have I. From now on I lay my gumshoe expertise to rest. I will only be a typical businessman with one exception focusing on the career I love most: being your husband."

 

"That is the answer I wanted to hear," Jennifer replies with a smile.

 

Jonathan returns her smile as Jennifer turns left onto another street. After a few miles they are getting near Sunset Boulevard. As they continue driving they pass the grey Ford  with the men who had been following Jennifer yesterday in their vehicle out of sight. After a few seconds the engine starts and the Ford slowly begins driving as it attempts to catch up to Jonathan and Jennifer. Jonathan happens to glance over in the mirror and notice the men after they catch up to them. The Ford is right behind them. Just as Jonathan is about to tell Jennifer they are being followed, the man who showed up at the restaurant last night, begins firing shots at them. Jennifer gasps as she looks over in her rearview mirror and notice them as the man continues firing at them.

 

"Darling, drive as fast as you can," Jonathan tells her as he reaches over to the glove compartment. Jennifer increases her speed to where it is over the speed limit. As best as she can she drives cautiously and carefully while watching the other cars around them. Jonathan takes out the gun from the glove compartment. He looks behind him and makes sure it is safe before he rolls down his window. He points his gun at the Ford and fires back at them. One shot actually hits a part of their window which results in it breaking and shattering. The driver increases his speed. They are driving just as fast as Jennifer. 

 

"I hope we don't get a ticket," Jennifer says nervously. 

 

"If we're lucky, they'll get one," Jonathan replies.

 

Jonathan continues firing at the Ford while their enemy continues to take shots at them. The Harts manage to stay clear from the bullets. Jonathan stops every few seconds and puts his head back into the car to prevent himself from being shot. Using the right two lanes, Jennifer turns left onto Sunset Boulevard. After several miles they are heading toward the interstate. The firing is continuing. Jonathan and Jennifer still manage to avoid the bullets.

 

"Turn left. I want to try something," Jonathan says.

 

Without questioning Jennifer turns their car left. The men continue to pursue them as the Cadillac turns in another direction. They are heading toward another route to the interstate.

 

The man takes his finger off the trigger. Realizing gunfire isn't getting them anywhere he places the gun on his lap.

 

"Those Harts are just too good," he snaps with a glare at he turns to look at his partner. Just as Jonathan takes his finger off the trigger and places the gun on his lap a car comes up to the Ford. The car hits the Ford with so much strength the driver struggles to keep their vehicle in control. Without having time to react, the car veers out of control. The automobile skids before crashing into another car. Jonathan looks behind him and sees their enemies' car is damaged severely. He can't tell if the men are seriously injured or dead.

 

"What happened?" Jennifer asks in shock as she slows their car down.

 

"That is what I would like to know," Jonathan replies as he and Jennifer each exchange a look of worry wondering what is going on now and what else is in store for them.

 

 

A Street In Los Angeles Minutes Later

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are reaching their destination almost fifty minutes later. They pass a street sign that says,"Franklin Avenue." Seeing Chateau Alto Nido Apartments on their right Jonathan pulls the Cadillac up to the curb in front of the apartment building. Jonathan and Jennifer get out of the vehicle and shut their doors. Jonathan locks the car as Jennifer stares at the building in surprise. 

"I wondered why a well-known and rich inventor like Alexander Richardson chose to live here. This is the sort of place you would expect an out of work screenwriter to reside."

 

"Lieutenant Levene said Richardson was almost broke when he rented this apartment. He spent so much money on collecting antiques he couldn't afford to live the wealthy lifestyle he grew accustomed to anymore," Jonathan tells Jennifer as he approaches her.

 

"That could be the reason he was murdered. Maybe he owed those men who were following us money. I suddenly remember reading a few years back about a gangster who was expected of owning gambling joints all over the country, but the police couldn't find any evidence to prove it."

 

"Was there a picture of him?"

 

"No, there wasn't, darling. The author said he was camera shy. I think the actual truth is that he hated having his picture taken."

 

"With his sweet disposition I'm sure he wouldn't hesitate to destroy the photographers' cameras if they tried."

 

"The author did say he broke a few cameras in his time," Jennifer says as they walk up to the front door of the building.

 

"I'm sure the press loved him after that," Jonathan remarks as he opens the door and holds it while Jennifer goes in ahead of him. He shuts the door. Jonathan and Jennifer walk up to the stairs leading to the last level. 

 

"What do we do if we get caught breaking in?" Jennifer asks as they reach the top of the stairs and head over to the door of Richardson's apartment.

 

"That won't happen," Jonathan replies as he reaches into the pocket of his suit. He takes out a key. "The lieutenant agreed to letting us have the key," Jonathan tells her with a smile. "I only wish I knew where the guard was. Levene said he sent one to be on guard twenty- four seven so no one would try to steal anything and that the guard was told we were coming over."

 

"Aren't you just full of surprises?" Jennifer asks impressed. "He must have went on a coffee break."

 

Jonathan unlocks the door. He opens it. They walk into the apartment. It is completely furnished with some lovely and expensive pieces of antique furniture dating back all the way to the 1900s. The residence is completely filled up with just about every piece of antique that you could possibly imagine. A work table with some designs and drawings is located at the back of the living room. Inventions are everywhere in the apartment as well. 

 

"Richardson certainly had lavish taste," Jennifer says admiring all the beautiful furniture and antiques he had collected during his lifetime. Jonathan shuts the door.

 

"Yes unfortunately it was his lavish taste that cost him more than money," Jonathan replies.

 

As Jonathan looks around trying to decide what invention Alexander Richardson could have selected to hide the statue, Jennifer glances over to her left. She sees a huge bookcase made out of dark brown wood standing up against the wall. It takes up most of the space of the wall. There are not any pictures on the wall on the opposite sides of the bookcase.

 

"That certainly is peculiar," Jennifer remarks as she stares at the wall.

 

"What is that?" Jonathan asks as he turns around trying to figure out what she is talking about. He comes up to her and looks at the direction of the room in which his wife is staring at. "I don't see anything, darling."

 

"That wall is bare," Jennifer replies as she points to it.

 

"What is so peculiar about that?"

 

"Haven't you noticed? The rest of this room and this apartment from what we can tell from standing here is just filled with pictures everywhere on the walls. There isn't even anymore space to hang pictures except on this wall we're looking at," Jennifer explains turning to Jonathan. "Now why would someone with a love and obsession for beautiful pictures that are everywhere leave a wall that is bare where he would have some room to hang more photographs?"

 

"Maybe he got smart and realized he had enough pictures to start his own museum," Jonathan comments.

 

"I doubt that," Jennifer replies rolling her eyes. 

 

"You mean you think it could be a clue to where the statue is hidden?" Jonathan asks finally realizing what his wife may be getting at.

 

"Why not? It would be a perfect place to hide a statue if there was a hidden door in the back of the case. When Richardson told you he invented a place to hide the statue, it doesn't necessarily mean he invented some kind of machine or something we would expect an inventor to invent with a hiding place. No one would ever expect him to invent a hidden door in the back of a bookcase if he designed the case to turn around somehow."

 

"You may be right," Jonathan replies. "Let's see."

 

He and Jennifer walk over to the bookcase and look around to see how the case could turn around without being obvious. 

 

"Stand back, darling," Jonathan tells her.

 

Jennifer stands back as Jonathan slowly and carefully lifts a book up before backing up quickly. Nothing happens. Jennifer walks over to the side of the bookcase to see if she notices anything out of the ordinary. Jonathan walks over to the left side and examines the side of the cabinet to see if he notices anything out of the ordinary. 

 

"I don't know what else it could be. There is nothing in this case, but books," Jennifer replies with disappointment as she leans against the side of the bookcase. Suddenly the case begins to move slowly by itself startling Jonathan and Jennifer. They stand back out of the way as they watch in astonishment as the case turns completely around with its back facing them. Jonathan and Jennifer smile in delight at this discovery. Jonathan walks over to the side of the bookcase on the left and notices a hidden door built in the side.

 

"Darling, you were right!" Jonathan exclaims amazed by what he just found. Jennifer walks over to her husband and sees for herself the secret door. "Why don't you open it?" he asks turning to her with a proud smile. "You were the one who thought of it."

 

Jennifer smiles at him. Slowly and waiting with anticipation, she opens the door. Sure enough the statue has been concealed in the secret door of the bookcase all along. She takes it out. Turning around, she shows the statue to Jonathan. It is a blue Emerald handmade Falcon bird statue from China.

 

"Doesn't this remind you of something right out of a Humphrey Bogart movie?" Jennifer asks as she hands it to Jonathan to look over.

 

"It certainly does. It is amazing," Jonathan replies as he turns the statue over to examine.

 

"It certainly is amazing, Mr. Hart," comes a female voice standing in front of them. Jonathan and Jennifer turn around in that direction to see Alice standing with a gun pointed at them. They stare at each other in shock.

 

"Well, Max was right in a way," Jonathan says. "It was the help. I take it this is what you had been after?" 

 

"Yes, don't joke with me! Why else would I be pointing this weapon at you? Now hand it over!"

 

"What makes you think I'll hand it over just like that?" Jonathan asks looking at her. "I suppose it was you who threw that rock through our kitchen window and killed George just as you killed Alexander Richardson. I'm afraid that murder and conspiring to steal this Falcon won't help you when looking for new employment if you ever get out of prison."

 

"Yes, I threw that rock with the note hoping to implicate Mrs. Burns in Richardson's murder!" Alice replies raising her voice in fury. "She and her husband treated George and me like dirt! I once asked Mrs. Burns for a raise, and she just laughed right in my face!"

 

"Maybe you should have just saved the trouble of committing these felonies by turning in your resignation and seeking employment as a maid for another rich family that isn't so dysfunctional," Jennifer comments.

 

"No way, Mrs. Hart! George and I slaved away for years while we watched the filthy rich like the Burns and Alexander Richardson live the elaborate lifestyle! When we heard that Richardson had come back to America with a one of a kind statue that is worth a fortune we saw our chance to get rich! Only that wasn't good enough for George! No, he suddenly got cold feet and had a change of heart! He wanted to give the statue to a museum and admit what we had done! The fool! So I killed him and left him in your living room as a warning! But no you two detectives just couldn't leave well enough alone! You were determined to solve that slum's death and get ahold of that statue that rightfully belongs to me!"

 

"What about those hoodlums that were following us?" Jonathan asks. "I suppose it was you who ran them off the road causing them to crash?"

 

"Right again! George and I conspired with them to get on our hands on the statue! I threw myself at Richardson soon after his trip! Only he soon got suspicious and dumped me like yesterday's trash! He made a pass at Elizabeth Burns! At least she had enough sense and decency to slap his face! Richardson wasn't only an eccentric fool, he was the scum of the earth! He drank to excess, took advantage of women, and blackmailed anyone he could! He only blackmailed people like Mrs. Burns so he could continue to live the lifestyle to which he became accustomed! He was spoiled and a good for nothing man who could be charming and pleasant when he wanted to be! He deserved to die! No one was in mourning! There wasn't anyone even at his funeral! Anyway those hoodlums only wanted the Falcon as payment for all of Richardson's heavy gambling debts he owed them! They had no idea George and I wanted the statue for ourselves! Now that those scums are out of the way, the statue will be mine at last!"

 

"Aren't you forgetting something? You still have us in your way," Jennifer replies.

 

"Not for long! Thank God! The thought of knowing another wealthy couple is standing in front of me makes me nauseous! Hand over the statue! It's MINE!!!"

 

"Aren't you counting your chickens before they hatch, Alice?" comes a male voice from the doorway. 

 

The Harts and Alice turn to see the gangsters standing in the doorway. The man who took shots at Jonathan and Jennifer earlier walk into the apartment along with his partner who shuts the door. They have some bruises and some scratches along with a broken arm which is in a sling.

 

"I thought I left you for dead?!!!!" Alice exclaims turning around with her gun aimed at them.

 

"Should you men be in a hospital?" Jonathan asks as he and Jennifer are both taken by surprise at their sudden appearance.

 

"Yes, the crash must have taken quite a toll on you, gentlemen," Jennifer replies. "You sure never get tired of taking shots at us. Between firing at us on the way over here and at the restaurant last night as Jonathan and I were leaving, I'm surprised you haven't run out of bullets."

 

"What the hell are you talking about? We never took shots at you last night! Alice, did you-?" he starts to ask.

 

"Of course I did! Since you were too chicken to let the Harts know who is boss, I had to do something to put the fear of God in them! And you call yourself a gangster?!" Alice asks in disgust. "That's a laugh!!!"

 

"Oh, yeah? Well, the last laugh is on you sweetie!" he replies gruffly through gritted teeth as he and his sidekick take out a gun. "Now hand me over the statue! If you don't the Harts are going to have to witness another killing!"

 

Alice takes a shot at him. The man yells in pain as the bullet hits him in the shoulder. He winces  as his gun falls to the ground. He collapses onto the floor as he holds onto his shoulder with his good arm.

 

"Boss, are you ok?" his partner asks in a panic as he rushes over to examine his injury.

 

"Never mind me, idiot! Get the statue!"

 

Just as Alice is about to take another shot: this time at both of the gangsters, Jonathan and Jennifer spring into action. Jonathan has handed Jennifer back the statue. He has a gun in his hand which he has taken out from his suit. Using the weapon he knocks Alice out cold. The partner is about to take a shot at Jonathan just as Jennifer aims a small wooden and lightweight chair which she found near her reach. She throws it at him. Just as he turns around and hurries to get away the chair hits him in the back.  Losing his balance he falls to the floor. The gun lands beside him. The partner pulls himself up to his feet just as Jonathan takes a shot at him. The bullet strikes him in the arm. He manages to grab hold of his gun. Covering up his wound with his good hand, the partner heads toward the window in the room overlooking the view. He slides it open and takes off toward the stairs leading to another apartment down below. Jonathan is hurrying after him. Jennifer rushes over to the injured gangster.

 

"Are you all right?" she asks. 

 

"Yeah, I guess the joke is on me," he replies wearily.

 

Jennifer heads toward the door and opens it. She finds the guard who has been knocked out coming through.

 

"Are you all right?" Jennifer asks kneeling down beside him. He nods. "I'm Jennifer Hart. My husband is after a man with a gun. You better call the lieutenant and an ambulance."

 

The guard rises and rushes into the apartment.

 

Meanwhile the chase is on between Jonathan and the partner in crime. Jonathan is rushing after him down the stairs. The partner stops as he reaches the end of the stairs. He takes a shot at Jonathan. Jonathan ducks behind managing to dodge the bullet. He comes out from hiding and takes a shot at the man which he misses. The partner heads toward a stairs leading to the roof of the apartment building. Jonathan chases after him. Jonathan starts up the stairs just as the partner stops halfway to take another shot at Jonathan. Jonathan ducks once again dodging the bullet. The criminal reaches the roof. He finds himself getting tired and exhausted as the pain increases from the wound in his arm, but he is determined to get away. Sweat starts pouring all over his body as he winces in pain. He stops a few seconds to catch his breath. He looks over and sees Jonathan continuing to pursue him as he is halfway up the stairs. The bad guy carries on and stops to take another shot at Jonathan who is reaching the top of the stairs. Jonathan ducks again. He takes one shot at the gang member who manages to dodge the bullet by ducking. He rises to his feet and continues to flee. Jonathan reaches the roof of the building and continues the chase after he stops a moment to catch his breath. The partner reaches the edge of the roof. To his disappointment he has nowhere to run. Seeing the roof of a building down below he decides to jump. Just as he is about to jump, he hears a shot fire. He looks up and sees Jonathan who had just fired a shot up into the sky with his gun still pointed up in the air.

 

"Hold it right there, buster! You have nowhere to run! Give it up!" Jonathan tells him imitating Humphrey Bogart again as he aims the gun at him.

Caught off guard the partner accidentally steps on the edge of the roof. Just as he is about to fall to his death, Jonathan manages to save him by grabbing ahold of him by his shoulder.  He brings his prisoner over to the middle of the roof and gently shoves him onto his back.

 

"Why don't you just hold it right there, buddy? Don't move!" Jonathan exclaims as he is still imitating Humphrey Bogart's accent.

 

All of a sudden there are sounds of sirens blazing as police cars and an ambulance come speeding toward the apartment building.

 

"Jonathan!" Jennifer yells from down below as she stands back on the sidewalk looking up at her husband with her hand held up over her eyes to block out the sun. "Are you all right, darling?"

 

"I am now, darling," Jonathan replies with a grin in his normal voice as he stands near the edge of the roof looking down at his wife. "I got my man," Jonathan replies with a smile as he twirls his gun around. He places it inside the pocket of his suit and comes rushing down the stairs from the roof. As he is about to head down the last stairs leading to down below, romantic and happy music starts to play. Jennifer comes rushing toward him. She throws her arms around him as she is still holding the Falcon. 

 

"Oh, I am so glad you are all right," Jennifer says sighing in relief. 

 

"Of course I am, kid," Jonathan replies as he pulls out of Jennifer's arms imitating Humphrey Bogart once more. He takes the statue from her and looks it over admiringly before looking up at his wife. He pulls his hat up.

 

"Jonathan, where is that music coming from?" she asks puzzled as she looks around trying to figure out where the music is coming from.

 

"I think you had been seeing too many pictures, baby. You know, this really is the stuff that dreams are made of," Jonathan replies with a smile as he points to the statue. Jennifer bursts out laughing as Jonathan takes her in his arms and kisses her passionately as the music bursts into a happy ending before coming to a halt. 

 

Suddenly everything becomes fuzzy and out of focus as Jonathan finds himself slowly waking up. 

 

"Darling, wake up. Darling, wake up. It is after ten o' clock," he hears Jennifer almost as if she is far away. "Jonathan, it is time to rise and shine," Jennifer says as Jonathan’s eyes slowly open and he finds himself back in reality after waking up from his dream. He can see Jennifer clear as day now as she sits on the bed beside him watching him with her head leaned over him as she pats him gently on the shoulder.

 

"Oh, good morning, darling," Jonathan replies with a smile.

 

"Good morning," Jennifer greets him with a smile. "That movie we watched together last night must have had quite an affect on you. I heard you say retired detective, kid, and baby in your sleep. Sounds like your dream was a combination of The Thin Man and The Maltese Falcon all in one."

 

"It was. I dreamt you and I were back in the 1940s. We had just gotten back from our honeymoon. You wanted me to continue being a detective while I only wanted to focus on being a businessman," Jonathan begins.

 

"I think I can guess the rest. We ended up becoming involved in murder, mystery, and intrigue?" Jennifer asks.

 

"Yes, just like our normal regular day lives. Max and Freeway were in my dream. We were invited to this dinner party being held by your editor. You were a reporter for The Los Angeles Tribune. He invited a famous and eccentric inventor, Alexander Richardson, over so you could ask him questions for your article on him. Richardson wanted to see me in the library. He told me had returned from Europe with a rare and one of a kind antique that was worth a fortune. Richardson was in fear of his life and didn't trust anyone in that household except for you and me. He wanted me to look after this antique. He wouldn't tell me what it was. Just about all I could get from him was that he had hidden it somewhere in a hiding place that he invented that not even the police could find. Soon after he dropped dead. He was poisoned."

 

"Does sound like something that would happen to us," Jennifer replies with a grin as she lies  down next to Jonathan. "What was the antique?" she asks as they wrap their arms around each other and cuddle.

 

"An Emerald Falcon bird statue."

 

"Your dream definitely was similar to The Thin Man movies along with The Maltese Falcon. I bet you saved the day," Jennifer says looking up at him with a smile.

 

"Don't I always, baby?" Jonathan asks imitating Humphrey Bogart as Jennifer turns around and embraces him.

 

Jennifer chuckles as she pulls out of the embrace. She leans down to kiss him as she and Jonathan shut their eyes. Just as they are about to kiss each other on the lips the door opens. Max walks into the bedroom followed by Freeway. 

 

"Good mornin', Mr. and Mrs. H," Max greets with a smile.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer look at one other in disbelief at being interrupted just as Freeway jumps up on the bed. He walks over to Jonathan and begins licking him on the cheek.

 

"I think he wants us to get up, darling," Jennifer says as she and Jonathan both pet their dog.

 

"I would say so. It is after ten o' clock. You better get dressed and be downstairs if you want your breakfast before it gets cold," Max tells him. "You have a meetin' at one o' clock in your office you know. What is it with you sleepin' so late, Mr. H? Ain't you feelin' well?" he asks with concern.

 

"He feels fine, Max," Jennifer replies. "He just had a tiring night. He had a long dream. It was very interesting. He was telling me about it."

 

"Must have been some dream for you to be sleepin' in this late."

"It was, Max," Jonathan replies with a smile. " How did your evening go last night?"

 

"Well, let's just say it wasn't one of my better evenin's off. Oh, by the way Miss Waring called early this mornin'. You and Mrs. H had been invited to a dinner party tonight."

 

"YOU'RE KIDDING?!!!!" Jonathan and Jennifer both exclaim in shock as they look at each other in astonishment and wonder.