Episode 14 The Trouble With Harts

Based Upon The ABC Television Series Created By Sidney Sheldon

Written By Sara Duckworth

Hart House One Night

Max sits in the rocking chair by the fireplace in the kitchen one night. He has a photo album laid out on his legs. Max is looking at a black and white picture in his hand. It is a photograph of himself and his ex-wife, Pearl Danko, taken sometime after their marriage ceremony. He stares at the photo fondly, remembering this moment from what seems like forever ago. Freeway sits on the floor watching. 

 

The door leading to the living room opens. Jonathan and Jennifer, dressed in evening attire, walk in through the doorway. They notice Max sitting by the warm fire staring at a photograph. The couple approaches their friend.

 

"Hey! How did your dinner date with Katherine go?" Jonathan asks.

 

"Yes, did you and she have a nice time out at that new restaurant?" Jennifer wonders.

 

She takes off her earrings, which are starting to hurt a bit.

 

 Max is so engrossed in looking at the picture he is oblivious to the Harts' presence. 

 

"Perhaps we should make our entrance again, darling," Jonathan says, turning to Jennifer.

 

 Max finally notices them. He looks up at Jonathan and Jennifer.

 

"Hey, Mr. and Mrs. H! How was the dinner?" Max asks with a smile.

 

"Very good despite the fact was the fifth business dinner I had to attend to this month," Jennifer replies with a chuckle.

 

"I can assure you Hart Industries won't be making any more business deals outside of America for a while," Jonathan says, turning to his wife.  

 

Their attention returns to their friend.

 

"Say, isn't this a photo taken after you and Pearl got married?" Jonathan asks, looking down at the photo.

 

"Yeah, it was taken outside the church," Max replies, handing Jonathan the picture. 

 

"Didn't you tell me you married her in upstate New York?" 

 

"Yeah, in the dead of winter. Figures considerin' how well our marriage turned out," Max says with a tone of regret in his voice.

 

Jennifer looks at the photograph.

 

"It's a lovely picture, Max," Jennifer comments. 

 

"It was the only one taken of us. Pearl and I got hitched only weeks after I set eyes on her in that nightclub," Max replies.

 

"Why are you traveling down memory lane now after all this time?" Jonathan asks.

 

"You haven't mentioned Pearl since we dropped her off at the bus station four years ago."

 

Max takes the picture from Jennifer.

 

"It would have been our weddin' anniversary." He sighs. "What was I thinkin'? Pearl and I were like oil and water."

 

"Don't be so hard on yourself. You fell hard for her. You and Pearl just weren't meant for marriage," Jonathan says with reassurance. 

 

"That must be the reason," Max replies soberly.

 

"What is?" Jennifer asks.

 

"The reason I never got hitched again. Too much pain and heartache."

 

"It's never too late to marry again," Jennifer says gently.

 

"Are you thinking of asking Katherine to be your wife? You and she have been seeing each other more and more lately."

 

"Nah, at my age, I ain't ready for marriage again. Katherine asked about my marriage. We talked about my life with Pearl tonight durin' dinner. That's why I started thinkin’ about Pearl and me when I got back. I forgot about our anniversary until Katherine brought Pearl's name up," Max says.

 

He places the photo back in the album. Max continues looking at the picture.

 

Jonathan takes a seat beside him.

 

"Are you all right?"

 

Max looks up at him. "Yeah, Mr. H. I was just thinkin'. I hope she finally found happiness. Her get rich quick schemes brought her nothin', but misery. Of course, I don't have to tell you two."

 

He smiles as he looks from Jonathan to Jennifer. Max turns to Jennifer.

 

"You and Mr. H are lucky to have found each other." 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances. They turn to Max with a smile. Jonathan places his hand on Max. Jennifer walks over and bends down to face Max at eye level.

 

Jennifer smiles at Max. "Yes, we are lucky. "

 

Max places the album down on the ground after closing it. "Well, I better get some shuteye. I have a date tomorrow."

 

Max lifts himself up. Jonathan rises to his feet, and Jennifer stands up again.

 

Jonathan walks over to his wife. "Isn't tomorrow too soon to be spending time together?" 

 

"Yes, a lady likes some space, Max," Jennifer points out to him.

 

"I ain't talkin' about that kind of date. I have a date on the golf course." 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange a look of surprise. Max starts to leave the room with the photo album in his hand when he stops to look at them.

 

Max, facing the couple, has a tune of disbelief in his voice. "Whatever gave you the idea, dames are all I think about?"

 

He shakes his head while heading toward the door leading to the corridor.

 

Jonathan turns to Jennifer. "I wonder where we got that impression, darling." 

 

 "I can't imagine, darling," Jennifer replies with a smile, facing her husband. 

 

Hart House The Following Day

 

Jennifer is sitting up in bed with a pen in hand. She is still in her pajamas while she is doing a crossword puzzle. Freeway is lying beside her awake. Jonathan, walking into the room, is also still in his pajamas. He watches his wife continue on with being absorbed in her crossword puzzle. Newspapers lay on the bed all over the place on Jennifer's side of the bed.

 

Jonathan, crawling into bed next to his wife, asks, "What shall we do on a beautiful Sunday together?"

 

Jennifer places the newspaper down with a sly smile on her face. "How about we spend it in bed?"

 

A sly smile comes across Jonathan's face as Jennifer places the paper and pen down on a table beside her. Jennifer turns around just as Jonathan moves closer to her. Jonathan takes Jennifer in his arms and wraps his arms around her back. Freeway barks.

 

Jonathan turns to look at the dog with a bit of annoyance. "Freeway, do you mind?"

 

 Freeway jumps off of the bed and walks over to the double doors heading toward the hall outside the bedroom. He opens a door with a paw and exits the room. Jonathan and Jennifer, with their eyes shut, are kissing each other, spending the day in bed, participating in their favorite pastime.

 

 

 

Los Angeles International Airport

 

Meanwhile, a plane is landing on an airstrip. Soon after, a woman, wearing a red dress, walks into the baggage claim. The woman is none other than Max's ex-wife, Pearl Danko! A dark-haired and good looking man, who is in his late forties, wearing an expensive suit, is with her. He is holding onto her arm as they walk over to the baggage carousel.

 

The carousel starts to spin as the luggage begins to come through the conveyer belt. Pearl and her male companion wait patiently for their luggage. Some passengers are already reaching over to pick up their suitcases. Two older sinister-looking men, who are standing well-hidden out of sight, are staring at the man. 

 

Pearl reaches over to pick up her suitcases with the man's help. He waits a few minutes before his suitcases come towards his direction. The man reaches over to pick up the cases. He smiles as he retakes Pearl's arm. They start to walk out of the baggage claim when the two men slowly begin to follow them. Pearl's companion happens to notice their presence. A look of fear comes over his face.

 

He stops in his tracks and looks around for an exit.

 

"OH, MY GOD!" the man whispers to himself, panicky.

 

Pearl, sensing something is wrong, "What is it? What the hell is wrong?"

 

The companion, without answering Pearl's question, quickly takes her hand.

 

"Come on!" he exclaims firmly.

 

Pearl, raising her voice as he forces her to flee, "Hey, what is goin' on?"

 

"Shut up! Just keep on running and don't look behind you!" the man snaps.

 

Pearl shoots him an angry look for speaking at her in that tone. They keep running, heading towards the doors leading to outside the terminal.

 

The men, following the man with Pearl, start to run after them. Pearl looks up at her man, anxiously, wondering why they appear to be running for their lives. They are exiting baggage claim as the two men are closing in on them. A look of fright comes over Pearl's male companion's face. The expression doesn't change for even a second as they run faster. 

 

They reach the doors. The two men are getting closer. Pearl looks behind her, curious to know who is following them. She notices their disturbing appearance. Pearl returns her eyes to up ahead. She is too alarmed, having an uneasy feeling her man is in trouble.

 

They dash through the doors with the strangers rushing after them. A taxi pulls up to the curb. Pearl's man hurries over with her close to his side. They run in and around the people. The two men do the same as Pearl's companion approaches the cab with her.

 

He swings the door open and hurls their suitcases into the backseat. The man pulls Pearl into the back with his hand tightly before slamming the door. 

 

The man looks up at their driver. 

 

"Step on it! Move it!" he orders, raising his voice impatiently.

 

The taxi starts to drive away from the terminal before speeding away just as the two men reach the curb. They look around for transportation. All of the other cabs are filled up. The taxi-cabs starts to drive off as the men sigh in frustration at losing the man they were chasing.

 

Meanwhile, Pearl and the man with her are speeding away from the airport.

 

"All right. Let's have it! Who are the two men that were followin' us?" Pearls ask, sighing, turning to him.

 

"I never saw those men before in my life. They must have me mistaken for someone else," the man replies, turning to Pearl with a slight smile.

 

"Yeah, sure," Pearl says with a tone of disbelief in her voice.

 

"Where to?" the taxi driver asks with his eyes still up ahead.

 

"3100 Willow Pond Drive in Bel-Air," Pearls answers, turning to face the driver.

 

"Is there another way to that address?" the man asks.

 

"Yes, sir." 

 

The driver turns his cab in a different direction, with the airport now disappearing out of sight.

 

Pearl's companion turns to her with a smile, his calm composure returning now that they got away from the men chasing them. She is staring at him, wondering why he is lying about the two men.

 

"If you are so sure you haven't seen those guys chasin' us, why is this here cab headin' in another direction? I'm sure it's not because of the scenery," Pearl remarks, trying to hide her suspicions.

 

"It's merely a precaution to be sure we won't be followed. I can't risk our lives before our wedding, sweetheart," the man replies, placing an arm around her shoulders. 

 

They cuddle up and kiss as the men that were following them drive away in a taxi in the opposite direction.

 

Hart House

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are still making love in their bed. They have their arms wrapped around each other's neck, kissing passionately.  The intercom to the gate buzzes. Jonathan and Jennifer's eyes, opening straight up,  exchange glances. They sigh. It almost never fails. Their romantic moments are usually interrupted. Jonathan lifts himself off of his wife.

 

"Now, darling, let Max find out who is at the gate," Jennifer begs.

 

Jonathan reaches over to the telephone. "Darling, Max is at the golf course. He won't be back until late this afternoon."

 

The intercom buzzes again.

 

"I'll find out who is at the gate," Jennifer says, sighing. 

 

Jonathan smiles as he kisses Jennifer behind an ear. He moves over, making room so Jennifer can reach the phone. The intercom buzzes once more. Jennifer reaches over and answers.

 

"Yes?" she asks, hiding her annoyance.  

 

The Front Gate

 

The taxi stands outside the gate as Pearl is speaking to Jennifer through the intercom.

 

"Jennifer, it's Pearl Danko. Could you open the gate?"

 

 Hart House

 

 

 "Uh, just a minute," Jennifer replies with a stunned expression.  She turns to Jonathan, covering up the mouthpiece with her hand.

 

"Who is at the gate?" Jonathan asks, kissing Jennifer behind her other ear with his eyes shut. 

 

"We have an unexpected visitor. I'll give you one guess who it is." Jennifer is still in shock Pearl is at the gate.

 

Jonathan, stop kissing his wife's ear, opens his eyes wide open.

 

"Not Pearl Danko?!!!" Jonathan exclaims, looking up at Jennifer with a look of pleading.  

 

Jennifer looks up at Jonathan straight in the eye. "Congratulations!"

 

Jennifer turns around and opens the gate.

 

"You can come on up," Jennifer says, removing her hand from the mouthpiece. She hangs up the receiver.

 

Jonathan looks at Jennifer in the eye. "Why does she always show up unannounced?"

 

Meanwhile, the taxi is coming up the driveway, heading toward the main house.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are starting down the stairs in the foyer.

"I wonder what get rich quick scheme she found herself in this time," Jonathan comments.

 

"After getting Max mixed up in a stolen necklace plot the last time she paid a visit, I think we owe it to him to put her up in a hotel," Jennifer says. 

 

Jonathan walks down the last steps with his wife. "If I weren't a gentleman, I'd see to it she got back on a bus to Arizona or wherever she calls home these days."

 The Harts reach the foyer. The doorbell rings. 

 

"I'll get the door," Jonathan replies, walking over to the front door. He turns around to face his wife with a hand on the doorknob. "We'll get rid of Pearl politely as possible." 

 

Jennifer nods in agreement. Jonathan opens the door to find Pearl and her handsome man standing outside with their luggage. They walk in. Jonathan and Jennifer are surprised Pearl showed up with a man.

 

"Hey, Jonathan! Is our room ready? Say, where is Maxie?" Pearl asks. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances, stunned Pearl showed up to stay along with a man. Pearl notices the surprised look on their faces.

 

"Did you forget we were comin'?"

 

Jennifer pauses a moment to think of a response. "No, not at all. It's just you arrived early."

 

"Oh, I'm so glad Maxie received my telegram!" Pearl exclaims, smiling in relief. She turns to the man with her with a warm smile, placing an arm around his shoulder. "Jonathan, Jennifer, I would like you to meet my fiancé, Oscar Kelso."

 

Jonathan and Jennifer look surprised at hearing the news Pearl is engaged. 

 

"Jonathan, Jennifer," Oscar says, nodding his head to Jonathan and Jennifer.  He turns to Pearl. "We better get settled into our room." 

 

"Yeah, sure, Oscar. The guest room is just upstairs."

 

Pearl and Oscar walk into the foyer. Jonathan and Jennifer glance at each other for a moment. Jonathan shuts the door.

 

 "Here. I'll be back for the bags," Oscar says, handing Jonathan their luggage. 

 

Pearl and Oscar start to head up the stairs.

 

"Max didn't have a chance to change the sheets. I'll be up to show you where we keep them," Jennifer replies, turning to face them. 

 

Pearl and Oscar turn to face them.

 

"Say, where is Maxie? I thought he'd be here to congratulate me," Pearl says.

 

"He went to play golf. He'll be back this afternoon," Jonathan replies.

 

"I'm sure your arrival just slipped his mind," Jennifer says, managing a smile.

 

"Maxie was often absentminded even when we were married," Pearl replies, waving a hand. "I can't wait for him to meet Oscar. They were both born in the Bronx."

 

"We need to get our rest! Come on!" Oscar orders, impatiently.

 

He takes Pearl by the hand and leads her up the stairs. The Harts are shocked at Oscar's rude behavior towards his fiancee.

 

Jonathan places the suitcases down. "Max never mentioned receiving a telegram from Pearl."

 

Jennifer, turning to face her husband, "Do you suppose Pearl lied about the telegram?"

 

"Well, it wouldn't be the first time she lied about Max expecting her."

 

Just then, the doorbell rings. Jonathan turns around to open the front door. He finds a young man standing outside the house with an envelope.

 

"I have a telegram for Max. It's from a Pearl Danko," he says.

 

Jonathan, taking the telegram, "He isn't in at the moment, but I'll be sure he receives the telegram."

 

The young man gives Jonathan a smile before walking off. Jonathan shuts the door before turning back to Jennifer.

 

"At least we know now Pearl told the truth for a change," Jennifer says.

 

"I just wish the telegram arrived before she did like yesterday."

 

Before Jennifer can reply, they hear a car pull up. 

 

"I better close the gate once we find out who is paying us a visit now," Jennifer comments.

 

"With the luck, we're having today, I hope it isn't The Brady Bunch." 

 

Jennifer shoots Jonathan a look. She slowly opens the front door only partly. To her surprise, it is Max who drove up. He is getting his golf bag out of the trunk of his sports car. Jennifer quietly shuts the door.

 

"Darling, what's wrong? Who is outside?" Jonathan asks, noticing the look of surprise on Jennifer's face. 

 

"Jonathan, it's Max!" Jennifer exclaims, turning to her husband.

 

Jennifer had a sound of worry by her tone of voice. Jonathan has a look of concern on his face now. They walk over to the staircase, away from the door.

 

"I wonder how we're going to break the news to Max concerning Pearl's engagement," Jonathan replies seriously.

 

The front door opens, and Max walks in with his golf bag, a look of disappointment on his face. He shuts the front door behind him.

 

"I guess Sundays just ain't my days for golf," Max says, mumbling under his breath. He notices the Harts standing in their pajamas. Max places the bag down. "Ain't you gonna put some clothes on, Mr. and Mrs. H?"

 

"We had a surprise, Max," Jennifer replies with a smile.

 

"I hope it wasn't lousy as my luck today out on that course," Max says, walking over to Jonathan and Jennifer.

 

Jennifer has to resist from commenting.

 

Jonathan turns to face Max. "Max, there is some news we have to share with you."

 

"Sure, I need somethin' to get my mind off of the game," Max replies, raising his voice.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer put their finger up to their mouth, signaling Max to lower his voice. Max's mind is still on how bad his game of golf went, so he didn't notice them signaling to him. He turns to Jonathan.

 

"Do you think you can help me brush up on my strokes, Mr. H?"

 

"Sure, but there is something I need to tell you first," Jonathan replies, patiently while trying to get Max's attention.

 

"The way I was playin' today, you would think I ain't touched a club before in my life," Max says, turning to Jennifer.

 

"Jonathan is trying to tell you something important," Jennifer whispers.

 

Max looks up at Jonathan and Jennifer, puzzled. "Why are you and Mr. H whisperin'? Did someone plant a bug inside the house again?"

 

"Max, I have some news to tell you about Pearl," Jonathan replies.

 

"Maxie!!" Pearl exclaims from up above. 

 

Max stares up to see Pearl standing on the landing.  Oscar is beside her with an arm around her neck. He is in a state of shock at seeing Pearl with another man. Pearl and Oscar make their way down the stairs.

 

"Oh, it's so good to see you again!" Pearl says, embracing Max. 

 

Oscar has a look of annoyance on his face, showing he is not pleased to see his fiancee hugging her ex-husband. Jonathan and Jennifer notice his reaction. They exchange worried glances.

 

"Hey, Pearl. It's so good to see you," Max replies, flustered.

 

Max turns to Oscar, who has a sly smile on his face. Pearl notices the expression on Max's face. She turns around and walks back to Oscar.

 

"This is my pen pal I mentioned in my telegram, Oscar Kelso. We're engaged," Pearl announces, placing an arm around Oscar's back.

 

A look of surprise comes over Max's face, stunned at hearing his ex-wife has a fiance. Max struggles for a moment to speak.

 

"Congratulations!" Max says, speechless. "But, Pearl, what are you doin' here? Why did you want me to meet Oscar?"

 

"Oh, Maxie, you and I may be ancient history, but we were married. I wanted you to know the old gal was finally movin' on with her life, and well, a leopard can change its spots. Hell, Oscar had to be in town for business anyway."

 

"Oh, what business are you in?" Jennifer asks, turning to Oscar with a smile.

 

"I'm a stockbroker," Oscar replies abruptly. 

 

A look of nervousness is on Oscar's face, which is noticed by Jonathan and Jennifer, who exchange glances.

 

"How long will you be in Los Angeles?" Jonathan asks.

 

"A week," Pearl answers.

 

The Harts are annoyed that Pearl and her fiancé will be staying in their home for a week. They can't believe they will have to be host and hostess to two uninvited guests that long.

 

"Jennifer, change the sheets in our room. We don't have all day," Oscar orders, rudely.

 

Jennifer, taken aback by Oscar, ordering her around in her own home, gives him a stare. Jonathan and Max, angered at Oscar's rude behavior towards Jennifer, give him an angry stare. Pearl is embarrassed by her fiancé's lack of manners. She places her hand on his shoulder.

 

"Oscar, please," Pearl begs softly.

 

"I'll change the sheets," Jonathan insists firmly.

 

Jonathan and Oscar glare at each other as Jonathan heads up the stairs. Oscar follows Jonathan up to the landing. Pearl, turning to Jennifer, gives her hostess a look of apology, before following the men up to the guest room.

 

Max turns to Jennifer. "I ain't received no telegram, Mrs. H." 

 

 "The telegram didn't get here until after Pearl and her prince charming showed up," Jennifer explains, handing the envelope to Max.

 

 Hart House

 

A while later, Max is sitting in the rocking chair in the kitchen, reading Pearl's telegram to himself. He is still adjusting to the announcement of his ex-wife's engagement. His thoughts are interrupted when Jonathan and Jennifer enter through the door leading to the corridor. They have changed from their pajamas to some clothing to wear around the house. Jonathan and Jennifer walk over to Max.

 

"Jonathan and I got the room prepared to Oscar's liking," Jennifer says with a sigh.

 

"I'm sorry Pearl and her douche of a fiancé showed up so unexpectedly, Mr. and Mrs. H," Max replies, looking up at them apologetically. 

 

"Oh, you didn't know, Max," Jonathan says, sitting down next to him. "How are you taking the news?" 

 

"I have mixed feelin's. I don't know what to think. Somethin' about that guy rubs me the wrong way." He turns to face Jennifer. "I want to apologize for the way that rat spoke to you, Mrs. H. He ain't got no right orderin' you around like that."

 

"Don't apologize for someone else's behavior, Max. I can stand up to someone like Oscar," Jennifer replies gently, coming up behind Max and placing an arm around his shoulder. She turns to Jonathan. "I wonder what Pearl sees in a man like that. She certainly didn't fall in love with his personality." 

 

"As they say, love is blind. With Oscar's good looks, he must be capable of turning on the charm when he wants to," Jonathan says.

 

"I don't trust that rat far as I can throw him. Somethin' tells me that guy ain't to be trusted," Max comments. 

 

"You have every reason in the world to mistrust someone like Oscar. I didn't get a good impression of him since he walked into our house."

 

"He leaves an impression on me that I don't care to mention. Oscar certainly doesn't bring the word confidence to mind as one of his traits. Darling, I think we should ask our guests to leave," Jennifer confesses. 

 

"Yeah," Max agrees. "We could always recommend a hotel."

 

"I would love nothing better than our guests to leave, but for Pearl's sake, I think we need to let them stay. Oscar may realize we don't trust him. If Pearl is in danger, we need her near us so we can keep an eye on them," Jonathan replies.

 

Freeway, who is sitting by Max's feet, sits up and barks as if to say he agrees with his master.

 

 

Hart House That Night

 

 

Max, wearing an apron, stands at the kitchen sink after dinner, washing dishes. The door to the living room opens, and Pearl walks into the room.

 

"Maxie, don't you ever use the dishwasher?" Pearl asks, all smiles, approaching Max.

 

"No, I still prefer the method of washin' the dishes the good old fashioned way: by hand," Max replies, turning to her while still cleaning the dishes.

 

"Oh, you never will change. You still are stuck in your ways," Pearl says, standing by his side watching.

 

"I prefer to think of it as a creature of habit."

 

"Oh, I ain't criticizin'. I was merely makin' conversation."

 

Silence falls between them: awkwardness between them now that Pearl is engaged. 

 

"Hey, let me give you a hand," Pearl insists, reaching over to pick up a dirty dish.

 

"Thanks, but you'll get that dress you're wearin' all wet," Max replies, putting her hand away.

 

"Oh, water won't hurt this old thing," Pearl insists, waving concern over her dress off.

 

She picks up the dish and starts to clean it with a sponge. Max stops and watches as his ex-wife attempts to help him with his chore. He has a look of annoyance, for Pearl is barely getting the dirt off. 

 

"Pearl, when you wash a dish, you have to scrub it hard. Otherwise, you'll end up with nothin', but a pile of dirty dishes," Max replies gruffly. 

 

Max takes the plate away and proceeds to show how to clean a dish correctly while Pearl sighs, observing. He scrubs the dirt away with a sponge hard as he can with his hands. He then runs the water over the front and back of the plate diligently before drying it off with a towel: front and back again.


Pearl shakes her head in disbelief at Max, being such a perfectionist. He gently places the now cleaned spotless plate among the other washed dishes on the rack on the counter.

 

"You should have been in the Navy. You would have been a perfect galley sergeant," Pearl comments. 

 

Max gives Pearl a look before picking up a dirty plate to hand to her. Pearl takes the plate. Max, returning to washing dishes, sees Pearl pick up the dish soap. He watches as she pours tons of soap onto the plate before picking up the sponge. Max, incensed, loses his patience. 

 

"You're usin' up the soap!" Max exclaims, annoyed. "You don't have to pour a lifetime supply when washin' a dish!"

 

"Fine, Sergeant Max!" Pearl exclaims impatiently, tossing the plate into the sink. "I was only tryin' to lend a hand! You clean 'em dishes yourself!"

 

Meanwhile, Jonathan and Jennifer are sitting on a couch in the living room. The couple is reading their own magazine while they hear Max and Pearl arguing in the kitchen. They exchange looks of worry, knowing Max and his ex-wife are once again not getting along.

 

Jennifer turns to look at Jonathan. "Looks like Pearl's visit is turning into Pearl Harbor again." 

 

Jonathan is about to reply when they can hear Max yelling at Pearl. Max raises his voice from the kitchen. 

 

"You can't just toss a fancy plate like that!!! They're some of Mr. and Mrs. H's best China!!!" 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn to look at each other after hearing their China mentioned.

 

"Our best China?!!!" Jonathan and Jennifer exclaim in shock with a look of worry.

 

"Something tells me we should've had Max serve dinner on paper plates," Jonathan comments.

 

"It's a shame we can't have the China replaced," Jennifer replies. 

 

"Oh, I just tossed the plate into the sink!!!" Pearl yells, raising her voice. "It ain't even chipped!!! I should never have offered to help!!! You're touchy as always!!!

 

"And you're exasperatin' as always!!! Just stay out of my kitchen!!!" Max yells back.

 

"I'd be more than happy to!!!" 

 

The Harts hear what sounds like things being thrown around.

 

"We better see what's going on before they wreck the kitchen," Jennifer says, turning to her husband.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer, placing their magazine down on the coffee table, rise to their feet. 

 

"I hope Max already washed the knives," Jonathan replies. 

 

They start to head toward the door leading to the kitchen.  To their surprise, the uproar is replaced by silence. 

 

Max and Pearl are standing by the sink, wrapped in a warm embrace, as the water in the faucet continues running. Freeway, who is sitting on the floor by the door, is barking quietly. He appears to be smiling, happy Max and Pearl made up. The door opens. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer, sticking their head in, smile as they are catching sight of Max and Pearl making up. Freeway barks. Jonathan puts a finger up to his mouth, signaling their dog to stop.

 

"Freeway," Jennifer whispers. 

 

 She gently picks up the dog. Jonathan, holding the door open, stands back as his wife carries Freeway out of the kitchen. Jennifer returns to the living room with Jonathan following behind. 

 

 

Hart House A Short Time Later

It is dark inside the house as most of the occupants have already retired to bed. Pearl is walking up the final steps in the foyer to the guest room. She can hear Oscar's voice coming through the half-opened door as she approaches the room. 

 

Oscar sits on the edge of the bed, talking to someone on the telephone. Pearl stops and ducks out of sight behind the door, eavesdropping on her fiancé’s conversation.

 

“Don’t you worry about me killing Pearl. I’ll make it look like her death was an accident,” Oscar says to the person he is talking to on the other end of the line.

 

A look of shock comes over Pearl’s face, realizing his real intentions for the marriage. Tears stream down her face as she happens to notice a bottle of cyanide on a table across the room. 

 

“Now, if the old gal’s uncle would just die, I could collect her inheritance. We’ll just have to be patient. I better end this call. The old gal is probably getting ready to join me.”

 

Oscar hangs up the receiver. Pearl can’t believe what she just heard. She notices Oscar walks over to the table to pick up the poison. Oscar, bending down, picks up a suitcase beside the table. He opens the case. Pearl is horrified to see a gun on top of Oscar’s clothing. 

 

Oscar places the bottle beside his wardrobe and shuts the case. Her fiance makes his way back to bed before turning off the lights. Pearl watches as Oscar crawls into bed in the dark. Pearl wipes away her tears and composures herself. She stops to think about how to get herself out of the trouble she has found herself in. 

 

Pearl walks in and quietly shuts the door behind her. She walks over to the bed and looks down to see if Oscar is asleep or awake. Pearl, seeing Oscar’s eyes shut, takes off her diamond engagement ring. She places it on a table before looking at her suitcases by the closet. Pearl starts to head out of the room when she feels a tight grip on her arm.

 

“Where are you going?” Oscar asks in a demanding tone.

 

“I wasn’t goin’ anywhere. I just came in,” Pearl insists. “It’s been quite some day, Oscar. Let’s get some sleep.”

 

Oscar switches on a lamp. “No, you were leaving,” Oscar replies with a tone revealing he is suspicious. He notices the ring. “Why did you take off your engagement ring?”

 

“Oh, hell, Oscar, I just didn’t feel like wearin’ it tonight.” 

 

“You’ve been wearing it ever since I proposed.”

 

“Ain’t uncommon for a gal to change her mind,” Pearl says, managing a smile.

 

“Put it on,” Oscar insists, picking up the ring. He hands Pearl the ring. 

 

“You, know Oscar, I’ve been doin’ some thinkin’. We haven’t known each other for long. I think we should just call it a day. Ain't no reason for us to rush into marriage.” 

 

A look of anger comes over Oscar’s face. He increases his grip on Pearl’s arm and lifts himself up to his feet.

 

“Let go of my arm! You’re hurtin’ me!” Pearl exclaims, nervously. 

 

Oscar forces Pearl onto the bed before walking over to the door. Pearl, looking over at him with fear, watches as Oscar locks the door. He turns around and faces her with a look of anger, sensing she knows about his plans for her.

 

“You are not going to get away from me! We’re going through with our marriage just the way you planned it!” He walks over to Pearl slowly. “ And if you think of double-crossing me again, I will kill you even if it’s before I say I do! I know all about your late brother, Joey. It seems my wife to be has some secrets of her own,” he says with a charming smile on his face. “If you choose to walk out on me now, just remember I can expose your past to the world.”

 

“I don’t have any idea what you’re talkin’ about!” Pearl insists firmly.

 

“Joey was involved with the mob,” Oscar replies, reaching the foot of the bed. “He was their middle man. Your brother died in a car accident. It was an explosion. He was also involved in the theft of a necklace: a diamond necklace. It would make such a scandal if word got out dear brother was a thief and had connections with the mob. Think what it would mean if your family secret became common knowledge to the public. Think of the headline: 'Heiress’ Brother Involved With The Mob Resulted In His Death.'” 

 

“I’ve been blind. You only wanted to marry me for my money. Oscar, you’re a fraud and blackmailer,” Pearl says speechless. 

 

“You just keep your mouth shut and do what you are told,” Oscar insists, leaning over her. “Your secret is safe as long as you cooperate."

 

“All right, I’ll do what you want,” Pearl says, tears streaming down her face. 

 

A devious smile comes across Oscar’s face.

 

 

Hart House The Following Day 

 

Jennifer sits at the kitchen table that morning, eating eggs Max cooked for breakfast. Jonathan stands near the door, talking to someone on the telephone receiver on the wall. Max stands at the preparation area, placing eggs onto a plate. Freeway, sitting on the floor by him, stares up at the food. 

 

“Thank you. Just get back to me when you can,” Jonathan replies.

 

Jonathan, hanging up the receiver, walks over to the table. He passes Max, who is pouring fresh coffee into a cup.

 

“I just had the office run a background check on Oscar,” he says, taking his place at the table across from Jennifer.

 

Max walks over with the plate and cup with Freeway by his side. 

 

“Thank you, Max,” Jonathan replies, looking up at Max, who is placing the plate and cup down.

 

“Sure thing, Mr. H,” Max says.

 

Max walks off to pour himself a cup of coffee with Freeway following him. Jonathan picks up his silverware and begins to eat his fried eggs. Max walks back to the table after pouring himself a cup of coffee. He takes a seat next to Jonathan and Jennifer.

 

“You know, I felt tempted to tell Pearl about our suspicions concernin’ that rat she is engaged to last night. Since we made up, I didn’t want to risk another squabble,” Max says, turning to Jonathan and Jennifer.  

 

“I think it is for the best Pearl doesn’t know for the time being until we have proof Oscar isn’t who he pretends to be,” Jonathan replies, looking up at Max while continuing eating his breakfast.

 

“Darling, I thought I heard arguing coming from the guest room soon after we went to bed,” Jennifer tells her husband, placing her fork down. 

 

“I thought I heard angry voices last night too, darling,” Jonathan says, placing his fork down too. He wipes his chin off with a napkin. “I’ve been wondering if Pearl is mixed up in another one of her get rich quick schemes again.”

 

“If Pearl were mixed up in another scheme, that certainly would explain some things,” Jennifer replies, picking her fork up. “Max, in her telegram, did Pearl give an explanation on why she became engaged?” she asks, continuing to eat her eggs while turning to Max. 

 

“No, Mrs. H. Not one word. If Pearl could tell the truth, I’d ask her myself what she got herself into,” Max replies. 

 

Before the Harts can make a response, the door leading to the corridor opens. Pearl, walking in with Oscar, has her arms wrapped around his neck. She is smiling, appearing to be in good spirits just for appearances. 

 

“Good mornin’,” Pearl says, walking over to the table with Oscar.

 

“Good morning. Did you sleep well?” Jennifer asks with a smile.

 

“Other than havin’ to deal with an unbearable headache, I slept just dandy,” Pearl replies with a slight smile.

 

“I bet,” Max says, mumbling under his breath while taking a sip of his coffee.

 

“What did you say, Maxie?” Pearl asks, turning around to face Max.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange nervous glances after hearing what Max mumbled to himself.

 

“Uh, I said we have some Aspirin upstairs,” Max replies, struggling to find the words.

 

“Well, if I suffer any more headaches like last night, you can be sure I’ll be usin’ the stuff.”

 

Jonathan and Jennifer notice the harsh look Oscar is giving Pearl. They both suspect Pearl’s argument with her fiancé is the real reason for her restless night.

 

“How about some breakfast?” Jonathan asks, taking a break from his breakfast.

 

“Is eggs all you have in the house?” Oscar asks.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances, Oscar’s controlling nature getting under their skin again. 

 

“Eggs is all Max cooked,” Jennifer replies nonchalantly.

 

“Get me some coffee, Max,” Oscar orders, turning to Max.

 

“Your legs ain’t broken. The coffee pot is behind you,” Max replies gruffly. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn to smile at each other, delighted and amused Max isn’t going to tolerate Oscar’s obnoxious behavior. Pearl has a look of fear on her face, not sure how Oscar is going to react to the response. Oscar gives Max a hard pat on the back while smiling slightly. He walks over to the coffee pot.

 

“Pearl and I have some good news,” Oscar says, pouring himself a cup of coffee.

 

He has a smile of self-satisfaction. Pearl has to fake a smile, knowing what Oscar is going to say.

 

“When are you leaving?” Jonathan asks good-naturedly.

 

Jennifer, giving her husband a look of disapproval, gently kicks him in the leg under the table. Jonathan is caught off guard by his wife’s reaction and avoids responding.

 

“I mean, what is the good news?” Jonathan asks, rephrasing the question.

 

“Pearl and I are getting married in a few days,” Oscar replies, walking to the table with his cup of coffee in hand.

 

Oscar places an arm around Pearl’s shoulder with a warm smile. He kisses her on the cheek. The Harts and Max exchange glances, wondering why they are getting married sooner than originally planned.

 

“And I’m going to treat you all to dinner tonight. It is our celebration dinner,” Oscar insists, cheerfully.

 

 

“Well, today certainly is the day for surprises,” Jennifer says, searching for words. 

 

 

Hart House That Afternoon 

The front gate opens, and Oscar drives his rented car through. The gate closes. Just as Oscar turns the vehicle onto the street, a black car parked out of view by the entrance begins following him.

 

Meanwhile, back at the house, Jonathan and Jennifer are seated on a couch in the living room, looking over travel brochures. The brochures are spread out on the coffee table.

 

“Darling, I can’t believe Valentine’s Day is only a month away,” Jennifer comments, looking over a brochure on Alaska. 

 

“That’s why I picked up these brochures on the way home,” Jonathan replies, picking up a brochure. “I thought traveling would be the way to spend such a romantic holiday, darling.” He notices the brochure Jennifer is reading. A smile comes over his face. “How would you feel about a cruise to Alaska?"

 

Jennifer looks up at Jonathan with a smile. “Did you just think of the idea yourself, or did this brochure I’m reading give you the inspiration?”

 

Jonathan stops to think before replying to his wife’s question. 

 

“Well, I did think of the cruise. Just maybe we can find us a Valentine’s Day cruise,” Jonathan replies, turning back to face his wife. 

 

“Let’s look into it,” Jennifer says with a smile. “I was hoping you would suggest Alaska. The state is known for its outdoor activities. An Alaska cruise would give us a chance to see whales in their habitat.”

 

“Speaking of activities, how about we engage in one of our own?” Jonathan asks seductively, placing the brochure down on the table.

 

Jonathan moves his body around and moves closer to his wife. Jennifer, smiling, puts the brochure down on her lap. The couple places their arms around their neck. Jonathan has a sly smile as he takes Jennifer in his arms. He is about to kiss her when the telephone rings. The Harts turn around to look at the ringing phone. They exchange glances.

 

“We’ll engage in that activity later in bed,” Jennifer replies seductively just as the ringing comes to a stop.

 

She gives Jonathan a sly smile before kissing him on the lips. Jonathan grins and kisses Jennifer. The door leading to the kitchen opens, and Max enters. He walks over to them.

 

“Your office is on the phone, Mr. H,” Max says.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn around to face him.

 

“Thanks, Max,” Jonathan replies.

 

“The call sounded important,” Max says as Jonathan reaches over to pick up the receiver. He smiles as a thought occurs to him. "Maybe that information on Oscar came through."

 

He and Jennifer wait patiently to see why Jonathan’s office called.

 

“Hello,” Jonathan says, speaking into the receiver.

 

He listens to the person on the other end of the line.  A look of worry comes across his face. “Thank you, Arnold.” Jonathan hangs up the receiver. 

 

“Darling, what’s the matter? Is Oscar a wanted criminal?” Jennifer asks. 

 

“No one has heard of Oscar Kelso,” Jonathan replies, turning to look at his wife before turning to look at Max.

 

Jennifer turns to look up at Max, who now has a look of worry. They are unaware Pearl is standing at the top of the stairs, having overheard the news. She struggles to fight back the tears. 

 

“We need to tell Pearl before she goes through with her plans to marry Oscar,” Jennifer says.

 

“I’ll tell her right away, Mrs. H,” Max replies.

 

“Wait a minute. If we tell Pearl her fiancé is using a false identity, she may do something drastic,” Jonathan points out.

 

“How about callin’ the cops?” 

 

“The police won’t be able to do anything unless Oscar commits a crime or Pearl is harmed,” Jennifer says.

 

“I’ll see if my connections with the FBI can help us. If he is a fugitive, they’ll have a description that matches unless Oscar had plastic surgery,” Jonathan replies.

 

“Meanin’ he had a complete makeover after being spotted,” Max comments.

 

Pearl, crying, turns around and heads towards the guest room. The Harts and Max are still clueless to Pearl hearing the discussion. 

 

Oscar is driving toward downtown Los Angeles. The car following him is one car behind him. They are on an interstate that is cramped with other vehicles. No automobile can move an inch. The lanes are gridlocked, forcing every driver to come to a standstill. Oscar, a man with little patience, sighs. He is using all of his willpower to stay calm and not give in to his temper, which is easily aroused. He just sits back and takes a deep breath watching traffic stopped in front of him. 

 

After waiting minutes that seem like hours to Oscar, the cars begin moving on ahead as normal. He returns to driving, hoping there will be no more delays to where he is heading to downtown.  

 

The vehicle directly behind him realizes they’re in the wrong lane. After signaling to other cars around, that driver makes a turn into another lane on the left side of Oscar’s vehicle. The car, following him, slowly comes up even closer behind him. Oscar only focused on the road and journey ahead of him, still doesn’t realize he is being followed. The two vehicles are approaching a tunnel. The cars start to go through the tunnel. 

 

Just as soon as they come through the tunnel, the driver behind Oscar starts to take action to run him off the road. The car comes upon Oscar’s bumper. His attention to the vehicle behind him is finally caught now. Oscar glares upon seeing the car that close to his bumper. All of a sudden, the bumper is struck. 

 

A look of fright comes over Oscar’s face. He senses the driver is one of the two men chasing after him yesterday. Oscar is now sweating, realizing his life is in danger. He continues to drive, too afraid to think of a way to escape. A look of panic comes across Oscar’s face gives the impression he looks like he is going to have an attack. 

 

The dark rental car now comes up next to him. Oscar grabs hold of the steering wheel as if it will save him. The driver rams into the side of his vehicle with a strong force. Oscar, gasping, loses control of the wheel. The car veers sideways. 

 

Oscar, now trying to get his mind back on controlling the vehicle, instantly grabs hold of the wheel and steps on the brakes. He sighs in relief he prevented the automobile from crashing.  Now to his misfortune, the engine stops running. 

 

Oscar attempts to start the engine, but it won’t start. He continues trying to start the engine. Other vehicles from both sides of the tunnel are coming in his direction. They are coming at him from every which way. The engine is still stalled. Oscar is frowning, his temper about to burst now that he can’t get the car to start. He mumbles to himself, hoping the engine will start. Oscar turns the key in the ignition. 

 

He is too focused on the trouble with the engine to take notice he has a worse problem. Vehicles are starting to come toward his car. They hit their horns to warn Oscar of their presence. The horns are blazing loudly. Oscar, looking up with his hand on the ignition, sees his life is once again at risk. Just as his car is about to be hit by oncoming traffic, the engine finally turned over.  

 

Oscar takes hold of the wheel and dodges through the traffic. He steps on the gas, speeding up the engine without driving fast. Oscar has just passed the tunnel. The car, following him, is racing after him. There are so many other vehicles around the driver is about to collide with them. He has no choice but to slam on the brakes. An accident was just barely prevented. Oscar smiles now that the driver was about to have a crash just as he was only moments ago. 

 

He is now heading toward the freeway. He turns onto the highway, confident he has lost the car. Oscar, using the right two lanes, is about to take the exit. The dark vehicle is starting to come behind him, which he notices. He grabs hold of the wheel tightly, looking around to decide how to lose the driver. A look of panic and fear is on his face. 

 

The car comes upon beside Oscar’s. He is horrified to see the driver is about to ram into him. Oscar is sweating again as his vehicle is hit. Only this time, the driver went to a great length to force Oscar off the road. The vehicle rams into Oscar’s with such a violent blow. The car, skidding out of control, heads straight toward the metal crash barrier.

 

The vehicle responsible for the crash had pulled over to a side of the freeway across the way. The driver, sure the attempt on Oscar’s life is about to be successful, speeds away before being caught.

 

Just as the car is about to go over the edge, Oscar swings open the door completely.  He jumps backward away from the moving vehicle. Oscar, tucking his body, attempts to land on the ground. His attempt is successful.  He rolls once hitting the pavement. 

 

Oscar, holding onto his arm, is wincing in pain. A sleeve of his shirt is torn, and his clothes are disheveled. Other than a few minor scratches and cuts, Oscar isn’t severely injured. He stands back out of the way as he sees his car catching fire. It goes flying over the edge and bursts into flames. 

 

 

Oscar, still holding onto his arm, is boiling with rage after the attempt on his life. He has a look of murder in his eyes. Oscar stands still without moving. He is looking at the metal crash barrier, his temper about to get the better of him. Some cars come to a stop after witnessing the crash. A driver is rushing towards Oscar, whose back is toward him. The other drivers, exiting their vehicles, hurry to check on Oscar’s condition. He is still enraged. 

 

Hart House That Night

 

The front gate opens, and the Corniche drives through. It is after sundown. Jonathan turns the car left onto the street. Just then, the same dark car that followed Oscar and crashed into his vehicle drives through. The gate closes. 

 

 

L’Orangerie Soon After 

 

Thirty minutes later, Jonathan, Jennifer, Max, Pearl, and Oscar are seated at the well-known and fancy restaurant famous for serving French-style cooking. Everyone is dressed up. Jonathan is wearing a black suit and tie while his wife is dressed in a red evening dress. Pearl is even wearing a red evening dress. Max is struggling to keep his bow tie straight. He quietly mumbles while trying to start tying from the beginning. 

 

There is an uncomfortable silence at the table. Oscar is the only one who is in good spirits for the rest of the people gathered don’t want to be there. The mood closely resembles the spirit of a wake.

 

“Excuse me. I’ll be right back,” Max mumbles, rising to his feet. 

 

He walks off, heading towards the men’s restroom. He passes George Christy, a well-known writer for the gossip column, having dinner with an older wealthy-looking woman. George, noticing Max, calls out to him.

 

“Good evening, Max,” George greets with a smile. “Are the Harts having dinner with anyone my readers would be interested in?”

 

Max turns around to face him. “Good evenin’, Mr. Christy. Nope. Just some out of town folks.” 

 

“Too bad,” George replies, taking his disappointment like a gentleman. “Give my regards to the Harts. Just to satisfy my professional habit of curiosity, who is the gentleman and lady?”

 

“My ex-wife and her louche soon to be husband.”

 

George and his dinner companion exchange glances. Max’s tie comes apart much to his frustration and annoyance. 

 

“Excuse me,” Max says, rolling his eyes. “As you can see, I got tie trouble.”

 

He walks off, still trying to get his tie tied correctly. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are sipping a glass of wine.

 

“I wish I took on the habit of smoking,” Jonathan says softly, turning to Jennifer. 

 

“Why would you mention that at a time like this?” Jennifer asks, turning to Jonathan with glass in hand, hoping her husband isn’t serious. 

 

“It would give me an excuse to leave the table,” Jonathan replies, placing his glass down. “When I’m going over the books at the office with Stanley, I’m at least comfortable.” He turns to Jennifer with a smile after he thinks of a way to get out of this. “How about we just skip dinner and neck?”

 

“Jonathan!” Jennifer exclaims with a look of shock.

 

“I meant in the car, darling,” Jonathan replies, chuckling as he places an arm around his wife’s shoulder.

 

“I’ll take a raincheck, darling,” Jennifer says coyly, smiling. 

 

She gives Jonathan a wink. Pearl is gulping down her glass of wine, which is noticed by the couple and Oscar. Oscar has to conceal his frustration and anger. The Harts exchange worried glances.

 

“Now, darling, let’s not get carried away by the celebration. I don’t want you to have a hangover in the morning,” Oscar says, turning on the charm while taking Pearl’s glass away.

 

Pearl smiles nervously as she nods. Max returns to the table, his tie now straight. He retakes his seat next to Jennifer. 

 

Meanwhile, the two men who chased Oscar and Pearl through the airport, are dining with a forty-year-old and attractive brunette. She is a rich lady who is accustomed to getting what she wants. They are across the way out of sight. They are staring at Oscar with a look of contempt. The woman turns to the men with a look of anger.

 

“That man lived through that crash?!!!” the woman exclaims with rage. “It’s apparent I hired two idiots to do the job!” 

 

“Excuse me,” Pearl says, rising to her feet. “ I have to go to the powder room.”

 

“Don’t be too long. I’m going to make a toast to us as soon as you get back,” Oscar replies, flashing her a smile.  

 

Pearl flashes a smile as she turns to her fiance. Oscar, taking her by surprise, grabs her hand. Pearl has to hold back from her temptation to slap him. His touch makes her skin crawl now that she has discovered the kind of man she is forced to marry. Her reaction catches the attention of Jonathan, Jennifer, and Max. They exchange glances, having a feeling Pearl and Oscar are putting on an act. 

 

The woman and men watch as Pearl walks away from the table. Christy also notices her exit. He senses something is up. Pearl walks toward a table where phones are placed for the use of customers. The table is out of sight away from the dining room. She dials a number.

 

“Information, what’s the telephone number for the bus station?” Pearl asks after waiting a few seconds, with her fingers wrapped around the cord. 

 

She listens to the reply from the other end of the receiver. She dials the number and anxiously waits for her to call be put through.

 

“Hello. I want a one-way ticket to Phoenix, Arizona tonight,” Pearl whispers into the mouthpiece. “When does the next bus leave?” 

 

She listens to the person on the other end, hoping the next bus will be departing tonight. “Good. I’ll be there shortly before ten. My name? Uh, it’s Pearl Danko.” 

 

Soon after, Pearl returns to the table in better spirits now that she arranged for transportation out of town. Oscar stands behind the table with a glass of wine in hand, ready to make a toast. Pearl retakes her seat next to him. Oscar turns to her with a smile. He turns back to the Harts and Max, who just want to get the dinner over with. 

 

“Now, I would like to toast to my future bride and our future,” Oscar says, cheerfully.

 

Before he can make a speech, the woman starts to hurry past the table, passing Oscar, who is standing by her side. She intentionally hits his glass with her elbow. The wine glass slips from Oscar’s hand, falling to the floor, shattering. The wine spills to the ground. Pearl is startled while Jonathan, Jennifer, and Max look on, wondering if the incident was accidental or on purpose. Oscar throws his napkin onto the table. 

 

“Why didn’t you look where you were going?!!!” Oscar exclaims, turning to the woman enraged. “You ruined my planned toast to my fiancée!!!”

 

By now, the entire restaurant is watching Oscar’s wild reaction. George Christy is watching with a smile, hoping the situation will lead to a story. He excuses himself to his guest and gets up before walking off in a hurry. 

 

The woman turns to Oscar, faking a look of regret.

 

“I’m so sorry, sir! I’ll have the waiter bring you a new glass of wine,” the woman replies.

 

“Do it! And make sure the wine is Le Piat d’ or,” Oscar orders. 

 

The woman walks off to look for the waiter. Pearl looks embarrassed by Oscar’s outburst. Jonathan and Jennifer pick up their glass to sip the wine, trying to make do of an awkward situation at one of their favorite restaurants. Max’s tie comes loose again. He rolls his eyes, giving up ever getting his tie to stay straight. Jennifer glances over and notices the tie. She places her glass down and walks over to help Max with his tie. 

 

One of the men, disguised as a waiter, walks into the dining room minutes later with a new glass. He approaches the table. Oscar, noticing the glass, takes it off of the tray. The man, walking away, smiles deviously. Oscar again rises to his feet with a drink in hand.

 

“I would like to thank my friends, the Harts and Max, for joining my lovely bride and me to be in our celebration of our soon to be marriage,” Oscar announces, managing a smile. He is still furious the first glass was knocked out of his hand.

 

Jonathan, Jennifer, and Max turn to face each other in reaction to Oscar, calling them friends. 

 

“Sweetheart, I wish us nothing but happiness and contentment in our marriage. May I bring you joy the way you have me since we met,” Oscar says, continuing with speech and turning to Pearl with a charming smile. 

 

Pearl fakes a smile as he again takes her hand to kiss. She, along with the Harts and Max, reluctantly raise their glass together. Oscar, smiling at Pearl while holding onto her hand, raises his glass. He lifts the glass up to his mouth and drinks all of the wine without stopping. He sighs as he places his glass down. Oscar, about to retake his seat, collapses onto the floor. He lies motionless. 

 

Pearl rises to her feet in shock, dreading to learn what caused him to lose consciousness. Jonathan, Jennifer, and Max also rise to their feet in alarm. Jonathan places his glass down and rushes over. He bends down, feeling for a pulse. 

 

“Heavens! Is he drunk?” Pearl asks nervously.

 

Jennifer and Max turn to her, doubting drunkenness was the cause of Oscar’s collapse. 

 

Jonathan looks up at Pearl, pausing before replying. “He’s dead.”

 

Pearl, in shock, falling over in a faint, is caught by Max before she falls to the floor. Jennifer happens to glance over and notice the men and woman leaving the dining room together. She recognizes one of the men, who dressed up as a waiter, delivered the glass to Oscar. Jennifer watches their departure, suspecting one of them poisoned the wine. 

 

By now, a crowd has gathered around the table after catching sight of Oscar’s lifeless body. One of the onlookers is Christy. The couple notices him. Jonathan and Jennifer stare at him, dreading the death along with their presence making headlines in the society gossip column of the paper. The Maitre D’, running towards them, sees what happened. 

 

 “I’ll call the police,” the Maitre’ D announces, turning to everyone at the table. 

 

He rushes off just as a photographer breaks through the crowd. Before Jonathan and Jennifer can prevent him from capturing the scene on film, he snaps a photo. 

 

 

Hart House That Night

 

The house is surrounded in darkness when the doorbell rings. Jonathan and Jennifer soon after approach the landing while Max walks over to the front door. Some lights have been turned on. Pearl comes out of her room just as Jonathan and Jennifer walk down the stairs. They are in their pajamas, just like everyone else in their household. Max opens the door to find Lieutenant Gillis standing outside, along with a policeman. Gillis, entering the foyer, is munching on a donut. He is holding a paper bag. The officer walks in behind him, and Max shuts the door.

 

“Your questions couldn’t wait till morning, lieutenant?” Jennifer asks, approaching him along with Jonathan. 

 

"Well, we made a discovery.  I thought you'd want to know right away knowing how much you and Jonathan enjoy getting involved in an investigation,” Lieutenant Gillis replies, eating the last bite of donut. “I’m here to tell you traces of cyanide were found in the victim’s glass.” He opens the bag and takes out another donut. “I didn’t have dinner, so I picked up some donuts after I left the restaurant. Want any? I have a bag full.”

 

“No, thanks,” Jonathan and Jennifer answer at the same time.

 

“Wouldn’t you rather Max fix you a sandwich?” Jennifer asks, surprised Gillis is eating a donut at this hour.

 

“I don’t want to spoil my appetite. Now, about the victim, did he have any enemies?” Gillis asks.

 

“Yeah. At least two that I know of,” Pearl replies, looking down at him from the landing.

 

Gillis, the Harts, and Max look up to see her. She starts to walk down the stairs.

 

Pearl continues. “Two men were chasin’ us after we picked up our bags. Oscar seemed scared to death.” A look crosses over her face after noticing her last choice of words. “We were runnin’ for our lives through the terminal. Oscar and I lost them after we took off in a cab. I asked him what was goin’ on, but he denied knowin’ them. Hell, I knew that man was lyin’.” 

 

Max turns to look at Jonathan and Jennifer, who exchange glances. 

 

“Could you describe them?” Gillis asks.

 

“Yeah, they were sinister lookin’.” 

 

“Well, I could look through our books of prisoners matching that description who are out on parole,” Gillis replies, taking donut out of his mouth. “Trouble is I can’t bring someone in for questioning just because their looks might make your skin crawl. Unless they were found with the poison on them, but even then, the chief of police likes to be sure we aren’t wasting the department’s time. Maybe I could put an ad in the paper asking the men to identify themselves, letting them know they’re suspects in a murder.”

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances, sighing at Gillis’ typical sarcastic remarks he made whenever they met up with him on a case. 

 

“You know any distinctive features could help like tattoos or scars: something that would make them stand out from the other men.” 

 

Pearl rolls her eyes, annoyed at the lieutenant’s reaction to her, not giving him a good description of the two men. 

 

“I don’t know whether you heard about this down at the station, but Oscar’s car was forced off the freeway this afternoon,” Jonathan says.

 

“Yeah, I heard about the crash, Jonathan. Homicide is my only department, but you know how people who work in the same building are. We’re like one big happy family.”

 

“Your big happy family should know I had my office run a background check on Oscar. No one ever heard of an Oscar Kelso,” Jonathan replies, placing his hands inside his robe.

 

“And he did tell us he was a stockbroker in Los Angeles on business,” Jennifer adds.

 

“Miss Danko, did your fiancé ever tell you anything about himself?” Gillis asks.

 

“Hell! It’s no use tryin’ to hide what I know about Oscar now that he is dead,” Pearl says, bursting into tears. “He was a cold-blooded killer, fraud, and blackmailer. I told him I was to become an heiress just as soon as my critically-ill uncle passed on in my letters. I lied. I ain’t never had any wealthy relatives in my life. As for my uncle, he passed on years ago.”

 

Max, Jonathan, and Jennifer turn around to face Pearl in shock after hearing the latest scheme she pulled. 

 

“So, a leopard can change its spots, huh?” Max asks gruffly. “Pearl, you could not change one of them. You’ll never learn. I’m surprised you ain’t ended up as Joey did.” 

 

“I’m sorry, Maxie.” 

 

Max gives her a look, one that shows he is reluctant to believe her. 

 

“Who is this Joey?” Gillis asks. 

 

Pearl turns back to him; tears still streaming down her face. “My brother. He worked for the mob. They killed him, makin’ his death look like an accident. Joey’s car blew up. Oscar had a feelin’ I found out he was plannin’ to bump me off after we got hitched. He blackmailed me, threatenin’ to reveal Joey’s connections if I didn’t go through with the marriage.”

 

“I better take a look in the guest room. Something tells me we’ll find the cyanide there.”

 

He places a donut back into his mouth, continuing chewing it. Pearl has a look of fear on her face.

 

A minute later, the door to the guest room opens. Gillis, entering, switches on a light. He walks in with the other officer behind him. Gillis notices Pearl’s packed suitcases by the door. He begins to examine the room carefully with the other man. Gillis, noticing the nightstand, sees the poison and gun in plain sight. 

 

 

Hart House The Following Morning

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are seated around the kitchen table, having just finished eating breakfast. Max is picking up their plates and silverware. Jennifer is quiet, her mind somewhere else. Jonathan turns to look at his wife, knowing she has something on her mind. 

 

“Are you going to share what is going through your mind, darling? Or am I going to have to guess?” Jonathan asks.

 

Jennifer turns to face her husband just as Max exits the room. 

 

“I was just thinking about Oscar falling to the floor after he was poisoned, darling,” Jennifer replies. 

 

“Try putting it out of your mind. There isn’t anything we can do for Pearl at the moment.”

 

“But there is something I forgot to mention last night. There were two men and an attractive woman with brown hair who were leaving soon after you told us Oscar is dead. One of the men was the waiter who handed Oscar the new glass of wine,” Jennifer tells her husband. 

 

Jonathan looks at Jennifer, surprised, his mind still processing the news she just told him.

 

“And the men fit Pearl’s description of the ones who were chasing after Oscar.”

 

Just as Jonathan is about to reply, the door to the kitchen opens. Max walks back in with the morning newspaper. 

 

“More good news, Mr. and Mrs. H,” Max says, heading over to the table. “We made Christy’s gossip column in the mornin’ paper.” He hands the paper to Jennifer. “On page ten.”

 

 Jennifer, opening the Los Angeles Tribune newspaper, turns to page ten. She looks at the headline before placing a hand over her head. Jennifer shakes her head.

 

Jonathan takes the paper and looks at the headline that has his wife embarrassed. He begins to read the headline out loud.

 

“Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Hart dined at L’Orangerie last night, where one of their guests dies after being poisoned.”

 

“And that ain’t the worst of it. That photographer snapped our picture just as my tie came loose again,” Max says, walking back to the table with a cup of coffee for himself.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn to face Max in disbelief over his mind on his tie coming loose. 

 

“What?” Max asks, puzzled, noticing their reaction.

 

“Not a thing, Max,” Jonathan and Jennifer answer, replying at the same time as they turn back to face each other.

 

“If you can get your mind off of your loose tie long enough, Jennifer was telling me something she noticed about the waiter last night just before you came in,” Jonathan replies, placing the paper down on the table. 

 

“He was leaving with another man and woman just after Oscar collapsed. The men fit Pearl’s description of the men chasing after them at the airport,” Jennifer says, turning to face Max as he takes a seat beside them.  

 

“It was the exact waiter who handed Oscar the glass just before he made the toast,” Jonathan adds, interrupting his wife.

 

“And the woman leaving with those men was the same lady who knocked the glass out of his hand just minutes before.”

 

“You mean the waiter did it?!!!” Max asks in shock. “I’ve heard of a butler commitin’ murder before, but never a waiter, Mrs. H."

 

“No, he was only disguised as a waiter. It was all part of a plan to set Pearl up. They must have gotten through the gate just after we left last night, broke into the house, and stole one of the deadly tablets before following us to the restaurant.”

 

“So Oscar’s glass being knocked over was no accident. They wanted to swipe glasses so the poison could be planted out of sight.”

 

“Yes and waiting till after Pearl returned to the table after calling the bus station was the perfect opportunity. It was the only time she had been away. They knew the police would think your ex-wife had an opportunity to set the plan into motion,” Jonathan says.  

 

“Pearl leaving to go to the phone made her look even more guilty since she was planning to take the next bus back to Arizona,” Jennifer points out.

 

Just then, the telephone rings. Max, rising from his feet, walks over to the phone on the wall. He picks up the receiver.

 

“Hart Residence,” Max answers. He listens to the caller on the other end of the line. “Yeah, just a moment.” He covers up the mouthpiece and turns to Jonathan. “Mr. H, it’s for you. He says he’s with the FBI.”

 

Jonathan rises from the chair and walks over. Max hands him the receiver. 

 

“Hello,” Jonathan says, speaking into the receiver. He listens to the caller before responding. “Thank you, Steven.”

 

He hangs up the receiver on the hook before turning to face Max and Jennifer. Max is standing by his side. 

 

“Steven called me from Washington. A man with Oscar’s description was wanted on suspicion of murdering middle-aged and wealthy women who were his wives.” Jonathan walks back to the table. “He had been working with the police to track him down.”

 

“Oh, Oscar was tracked down. Only he ended up dead first,” Jennifer says with a look. 

 

“Well, what goes around, comes around,” Max replies seriously.

 

“Max!” Jennifer exclaims astounded, turning to Max.

 

“Don’t you know it’s not nice to speak ill of the dead?” Jonathan asks, turning to Max with a smile.

 

“So is lyin’ and murder,” Max says, shrugging his shoulders. 

 

He takes a sip of coffee. The telephone rings again, and Max picks up the receiver.

 

“Hart Residence,” Max says, answering the call. He listens to the caller. “Just a moment, lieutenant.”

 

“I wonder what Gillis wants,” Jonathan replies, walking over. “He said it would be a while before Pearl’s bail hearing would be set.” He takes the receiver. “Good morning, lieutenant. I just received a call from the FBI.”

 

Gillis answers from the other end of the line. “I just got paid a visit. My men found over twenty IDS on the victim. This guy must have really liked the name Oscar. All of the identifications have the same first name, but at the moment, you have something more important to worry about. Pearl just escaped from her cell.”

 

The Bus Station A Short Time Later

 

Soon after leaving their house, Jonathan and Jennifer are riding in their Mercedes. A police car is following behind. They cross over a bridge leading to the station. Jonathan, drives the vehicle slowly up, looking around with Jennifer for Pearl. 

 

A bus is parked out front. The driver is standing directly by the doors, collecting the passengers’ tickets. There is a long line of people waiting to board the bus. Pearl, looking nervously, stands in back, waiting impatiently. The Mercedes is approaching the bus. Jennifer notices Pearl at once.

 

“There’s Pearl, darling,” Jennifer says, pointing Pearl out to Jonathan. 

 

Jonathan glances over in the direction to which his wife is pointing. He pulls the car into the parking lot. The police do the same. Jonathan parks their vehicle in the first available parking space. The Harts exit and start to walk over as Lieutenant Gillis and his men watch. The police car is parked behind the Hart vehicle. Pearl, glancing around, catches sight of Jonathan and Jennifer walking over to the bus. Pearl, in a state of panic, pushes the other passengers out of the way in her haste to get aboard. 

 

“You’ll get your turn, lady. Let the other passengers board,” the driver orders, turning Pearl away.

 

“I’m afraid you won’t be going anywhere,” Jonathan replies, approaching Pearl with Jennifer behind him.

 

“That wasn’t smart, Pearl, breaking out of prison like that. Your escape only makes you look even more guilty of murdering Oscar,” Jennifer says, walking over to stand by her husband. 

 

A look of shock comes over the bus driver’s face after hearing Pearl escaped prison. 

 

“I don’t know what to say. I was scared,” Pearl confesses speechless, turning to Jonathan and Jennifer.

 

“Right now, Miss Danko, being silent will work in your favor,” Gillis replies, walking over with an officer. “Escaping prison and attempting to flee won’t look good for you. I’d be surprised if the judge would grant you bail after that clever stunt you just pulled.” He takes the ticket from her hand and looks it over. “Well, I got more news to brighten your day,” he announces, turning to Jennifer. “She was planning to leave town in your name.”

 

Jennifer snatches the ticket from Gillis.

 

“What?!!! Jennifer Hart?!!!” Jennifer exclaims,  looking at the ticket with Jonathan.

 

Jennifer and Jonathan look at Pearl with disappointment. The officer handcuffs Pearl, who is in tears. 

 

“Want to file charges?” Gillis asks, turning to the couple.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are still staring at Pearl, who is crying. She whispers an apology. 

 

“No, I think Pearl is facing enough charges,” Jennifer replies. 

 

 Gillis walks off as his fellow officer leads Pearl away to their car with Jonathan and Jennifer watching. 

 

Hart House That Afternoon

 

The Mercedes is driving up to the main house just as a delivery truck is driving pass. Jonathan and Jennifer watch the truck heading toward the driveway. They exchange glances, wondering what was shipped to their house. 

 

“Did you order anything, darling?” Jonathan asks, turning to Jennifer while putting the car in park. 

 

“No, I didn’t, darling,” Jennifer replies, opening her door. 

 

She and Jonathan exit the vehicle. They walk over to the front door. 

 

Max is standing in the foyer speechless, looking at a huge crate. The front door opens. Jonathan and Jennifer entering, notice Max standing motionless. The Harts turn to see what captured his attention. They look amazed to see the size of the delivered item in its crate. 

 

“I wonder what the crate contains,” Jennifer says.

 

“Whatever it is, I hope it doesn’t need to go for a walk,” Jonathan comments.

 

“It’s addressed to Oscar,” Max replies, turning to them. “I checked for a return address, Mr. and Mrs. H. There ain’t one.”

 

“Considering what we learned about him, Max, that’s to be expected.” 

 

“I’m anxious to see what was sent to him,” Jennifer says. 

 

“One thing is for certain whatever that item is Oscar ain’t in need of it now,” Max remarks. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn to face Max. 

 

Soon after, Jonathan begins opening the heavy crate with a crowbar as Jennifer and Max watch with anticipation. The crate is finally opening. Jonathan, sighing, places the crowbar down on the ground. He opens the crate to find a tall and ceramic jar. 

 

“You better give me a hand,” Jonathan says, turning to Max.  

 

Max walks over. Jonathan is standing by the foot of the stairs. Max carefully helps him lift the heavy jar out. Jennifer, smiling upon recognizing the jar, watches with delight as her husband and Max set it up straight. The men breathe a sigh of relief of letting go of the massive object. They stand back to examine it closely. Jennifer walks over.

 

“What a piece of junk!” Max exclaims gruffly. 

 

“Maybe it’ll look better in the garden.” 

 

“Now, I’ll have you know it’s a Pithos,” Jennifer replies, turning to the men with disappointment. “It’s from Greece. Some were used for rituals and burials.”

 

“No offense, Mrs. H, but I wouldn’t be caught dead in this thing,” Max says.

 

“You’re not Greek, so I think it’s safe to say when the time comes, you’ll be buried in a grave just like every other American citizen,” Jonathan replies, placing a hand on Max’s shoulder. 

 

“Oh, be serious, you two!” Jennifer exclaims, rolling her eyes. “If someone shipped this artifact to Oscar, it must have been used to conceal something valuable.”

 

“Yeah, sure, like tana leaves,” Max comments, doubtfully. 

 

“No, I think Jennifer is right,” Jonathan replies, becoming serious. “If this jar was shipped to Oscar with no return address, it doesn’t make sense unless it was used to hide something. Besides, Oscar didn’t strike me as someone interested in archeology.”

 

“Or anything else except money,” Jennifer adds.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer look at each other, wondering if money could have been placed inside the ancient jar. 

 

“Bring us a flashlight,” Jonathan says, turning to Max.

 

Moments later, Jonathan and Jennifer are standing, looking through the Pithos. Jonathan is shining the flashlight as Max watches. Freeway, who sits at Max’s feet,  also observes the search. Something catches Jennifer’s attention. 

 

“Darling, I see something. It's cash,” Jennifer says with excitement in her voice.

 

Jonathan, looking into the Pithos even deeper, sees his wife is right. There are tons of hard-cash hidden inside. Jonathan, digging in, takes out some of the money. Jennifer assists Jonathan in taking out the rest. By all the money they have in their hands, it appears they have just stumbled onto a fortune. Jennifer watches as her husband counts all of the cash they discovered. 

 

“There are over a million dollars,” Jonathan replies, looking over the million-dollar bills. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances, wondering who the person was who sent Oscar all that much cash. They look over to Max to see he passed out. Freeway, who is licking his face, is attempting to revive him. 

 

Hart House Soon After

 

Jonathan and Max are carrying the Pithos over to the parked Corniche in front of the main house. Jennifer, standing by the front door, is holding it open as Jonathan and Max carefully take their time through the doorway. 

 

“Oh, this jar must weigh a ton!” Max exclaims, placing the Pithos into the trunk with Jonathan. He is breathing hard. 

 

“Pithos, Max, and it weighs close to two tons,” Jennifer informs him.

 

Jonathan and Max breathe a sigh of relief now that the old artifact is finally out of their hands. Jonathan shuts the trunk as Jennifer walks out with her purse. 

 

“I’m sorry I had to open my mouth!” Max exclaims, turning to look at Jennifer, who is getting into the vehicle with Jonathan. 

 

 

The Front Gate 

The gate opens, and Jonathan drives through. The Harts head down a street. A rented car that had been hiding out starts to follow. Just as soon as the vehicle appears behind the Corniche, Jonathan notices the car. He wonders if they’re once again they’re being followed: something that often occurs after being caught up in a mystery. 


He continues keeping an eye on the vehicle while trying to prevent the driver from catching on. Jonathan turns left onto Sunset Boulevard. The other driver also turns left onto Sunset Boulevard. By now, Jonathan does not doubt in his mind the other vehicle is indeed following them. He soon turns right onto a ramp. 

 

“We’re being followed, darling,” Jonathan says, turning to Jennifer. “It’s most likely the same car that ran Oscar off the road. The driver has been behind us ever since we left the house.”

 

The driver in the other vehicle is revealed to be an attractive blond in her forties. This lady is the kind who is stuck upon herself and one you don't want to cross when coming into contact with her. She is wearing costly clothes and diamond jewelry.  By her appearance, she gives the impression she only appreciates the expensive things in life. 

 

“Shouldn’t you try to lose them, darling?” Jennifer asks, turning to Jonathan, who has stopped staring at the car. “I don’t want history repeating itself.” 

 

“I think it’s better not to let on we know we’re being followed. If the driver wanted to crash into us, I think he would have done so by now.”

 

“He or she certainly isn’t going out of their way not to be inconspicuous,” Jennifer replies, turning back to look at the road.  

 

Jonathan merges south onto an interstate. The other vehicle takes the same direction. 

 

 

Los Angeles Police Department

 

Lieutenant Gillis stands at his desk in his office, looking over the million-dollar bills. They’re all over his desk. He is munching on a donut.

 

Gillis looks up at the Harts, who are seated in front of him. “Before you came in, I got a call from the district attorney. The judge decided against bail hearing after hearing Pearl attempted to flee.”

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances. They are not at all surprised by the judge’s decision after Pearl’s impulsive behavior. Gillis sits down in his chair.

 

“Do you have any idea what Max ever saw in that woman? The district attorney told me the last time she paid a visit, Pearl was involved in negotiating a deal over a stolen necklace. Joey was involved in the theft. The prosecutor decided not to press charges against her after the necklace was recovered.”

 

“Well, I can’t speak for Max, but you know what they say about love being blind,” Jonathan replies. 

 

“Pearl just seems to be hazardous to one’s health,” Jennifer comments.

 

“Now about the money, lieutenant,” Jonathan says, trying to get Gillis’ mind back on the reason for their visit.

 

“I had a nice long chat with the FBI,” Gillis replies in between eating bites of the donut. “Oscar stole the money from the heiresses. The FBI believes a woman was assisting Oscar in taking the fortune.”

 

"What about the Bank Secrecy Act passed by Nixon in 1970?" Jennifer asks.

 

"How could Oscar and his accomplice take out that much money without arousing suspicion?" Jonathan adds.

 

"The agents at the bureau says the bank tellers believed the withdrawals were legitimate.  It was not uncommon for the wealthy women to withdraw over ten thousand dollars occasionally. They were respected customers who had been with the banks for years. The millions of dollars were removed from their accounts before the dames were found dead," Gillis explains.

 

"What happened to proof of identity and keeping records?"

 

"And reports of withdrawals over ten thousand dollars?" Jennifer adds. 

 

"That's the intriguing part. Oscar often showed up to make withdrawals on behalf of his unexpected victims before the marriage. This guy was smart. The heiresses always called up their bank informing them Oscar was going to withdraw cash from the account.  He still showed their IDs before the teller went through with removing the money.  The bank stopped making reports long before Oscar Kelso or whoever this Oscar guy is entered their lives. The banks are now regretting the decision," Gillis replies.

 

"I would think so," Jennifer says in shock that the banks were not thorough in making sure no criminal activity was involved.

 

“Darling, I think you better tell Lieutenant Gillis about the woman and men you saw at L’ Orangerie,” Jonathan replies, turning to Jennifer.

 

“What woman and men? They weren’t any mention of them in your statement,” Gillis says with curiosity, placing donut down on a napkin. 

 

“I’m afraid it slipped my mind. There were two men and a woman sitting across our table. The woman was an attractive brunette, and the men fit Pearl’s description of the ones chasing Oscar through the airport,” Jennifer replies.

 

“It’s not a crime to be eating at the same restaurant even if you’re seated at a table across the man you may have been chasing. We only have Pearl’s word sinister-looking men were chasing after her fiance. If he weren’t dead, he might be able to confirm Pearl’s story,” Gillis says, interrupting Jennifer.

 

He picks up his donut and continues eating the last few bites. 

 

“There’s more to Jennifer’s story than those men dining at L’ Orangerie. Oscar told us two men crashed into his vehicle on the San Diego Freeway,” Jonathan replies patiently. 

 

“And one of those men disguised himself as a waiter before handing the poisoned wine to Oscar. I saw the men and woman get up to leave just after he collapsed,” Jennifer adds. 

 

“So?” Gillis asks, shrugging his shoulders. “Pearl probably planned her fiancé’s demise with them. She was seated at the table when the glass fell from his hand. The cyanide was found in her room.”

 

“Pearl plotted Oscar’s murder with three strangers?!!” Jennifer exclaims in disbelief. 

 

“It would be a way to get away with it,” Gillis replies, taking another donut out of the bag and begins chewing it. “Only Pearl made mistakes like all killers do.”

 

“Pearl may be a liar and schemer, but that doesn’t mean she is capable of murder,” Jonathan says. 

 

“You know, it is possible the woman had a motive no one would think of. She may be a relative of one of the murdered women,” Jennifer replies, thinking out loud.

 

“What would a relative have to gain?” Gillis asks.

 

“Revenge.” 

 

“You may be onto something, darling,” Jonathan says, placing a hand on his wife’s shoulder. “Oscar did kill a lot of young women he tricked into marriage."     

 

“You two have such a vivid imagination. Pearl had the strongest motive to want Oscar dead. He was blackmailing her into marriage after she wanted to call off the engagement and told her he was going to kill her,” Gillis replies. 

 

“Pearl killing Oscar after she arranged to leave town last night doesn’t make sense,” Jonathan says, turning to Gillis.  

 

"Remember that stunt she pulled this morning? I seem to recall you had a hunch she was planning to flee by bus.” Gillis turns to Jennifer. “And I recall Pearl purchasing a ticket in your name. After all she has done, you still want to prove her innocence?”

 

“I seem to recall something called innocent until proven guilty. Even someone with her dishonest nature doesn’t deserve to stay in prison for a crime she didn’t commit,” Jennifer replies. 

 

“Do the FBI know Oscar's real identity yet?” Jonathan asks. 

 

“No, we’re working alongside them to find out,” Gillis says, taking a big bite out of his donut. “His photo, along with a description, is being sent to every police department in the country.” He eats the last bite of donut. “I didn’t get a chance to eat breakfast this morning. I have a few more donuts in this bag.” Gillis reaches into the bag. “Do you want any? They’re delicious.” 

 

“No, thanks,” Jonathan and Jennifer answer at the same time again. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer rise to their feet. 

 

A few minutes later, Jonathan and Jennifer are in the Corniche again, departing the station. Their car is parked at the curb facing the front of the building. The vehicle that was following them earlier is parked across from them in plain sight. Jennifer notices the car as Jonathan starts the engine. 

 

“Jonathan, that car is now parked across from us,” Jennifer says.

 

Jonathan turns to look. He tries to make out whether the driver is a man or a woman. The dark windows make it impossible to tell. 

 

“Now we know we were being followed,” Jonathan replies, turning to Jennifer. “The driver of that vehicle didn’t just park here to pay a visit to someone in jail or report a crime.”

 

“I think we should tell Gillis,” Jennifer says, staring at the vehicle. 

 

“And risk him dismissing our suspicions again? Besides, we don’t want to intrude on his only meal for the day.” 

 

He starts to drive off, turning onto the street. The car turns in another direction. Jonathan, making a U-turn, follows the vehicle. 

 

“I think our mysterious driver was hoping to get a chance to collect,” Jonathan comments. 

 

The driver knows the Harts are following her, but she doesn’t let on she knows. 

 

“Trying to see what I am up to, huh? I’ll play along for a while,” the woman says to herself.

 

She smiles deviously, thinking how fun it will be for the couple to follow her for a while before turning the tables on them.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer continue following her, heading northeast onto Los Angeles Street. Soon after, they are driving toward a ramp on the side of the street. 

 

The female driver, smiling, suddenly steps on the gas.  She decides it is enough time for games. Jonathan speeds up the engine now. 

 

“I was wondering when she was going to pedal to the metal,” Jonathan says.

 

The other car instantly pulls into the other lane, cutting another automobile off. 

 

“That wasn’t ladylike!” Jennifer exclaims, stunned.

 

Jonathan instantly pulls the Corniche into the same lane, cutting another vehicle off. Jennifer gasps in shock after witnessing Jonathan’s behavior. Just as she starts to open her mouth, Jonathan turns to her. He senses what his wife has to say about his actions.

 

“Don’t say it, darling,” Jonathan replies with his eyes only focused on the road ahead.

 

Jennifer shakes her head as they come upon the ramp. The Corniche and the other vehicle turn right onto the ramp. They merge onto a busy interstate. The traffic is stopped in their lane. 

 

The lady, sighing impatiently, pulls into one lane. Jonathan turns out of his lane, too, pulling into the other lane. A truck is about to rear-end them when he slams on the brakes at once.  Jennifer sighs in relief. The two vehicles, continue speeding down the interstate,  approach an exit up ahead. 

 

The woman once again steps on the gas. Jonathan, speeding the engine up, uses the right two lanes to take the exit just after the other driver does so. They are now on a freeway toward San Pedro. The woman, lighting herself a cigarette, continues driving left while following signs. 

 

Jonathan turns left just as she puts her foot down hard on the gas pedal. The lady is now speeding down the freeway, getting away. Jonathan, his mind on catching up to the driver, is racing after her. The woman turns right onto Overload Avenue. She begins to turn left onto West Pico Boulevard minutes later, just as the Harts' car catches up to her. Jonathan turns onto West Pico Boulevard. The other driver, losing all of her patience, is now driving dangerously over the speed limit. 

 

Jonathan steps on the gas, barely staying within the speed limit. The woman slows her engine down. The woman, thinking irrationally, drives her car at once onto the sidewalk.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are thunderstruck. Jonathan, slowing down, puts his foot down on the brakes.  He doesn't want to risk a collision.  The couple wait to see what the driver will do next. The woman, now reaching the end of the sidewalk, drives the rental back onto the main road. She once again steps on the gas, over the speed limit. Jonathan, stepping on the gas while barely staying within the speed limit, continues tailing the woman.

 

A few vehicles, forced to sway out of the way as the two cars are flying down a street. The cars are approaching Crown Car Wash. They pass the car wash.   Behold the woman now thought of a way to get away. 

 

The lady, deciding to put her plan into place, suddenly turns her car around. Her careless and reckless driving causes Jonathan and other vehicles to slam on their brakes. She makes an illegal U-turn and drives back to the car wash. 

 

Jonathan, slowing the car down, pulls up to the side of the road before turning the Corniche around. The other car pulls right into the car wash. Jonathan, noticing two strong men moving huge pieces of glass across the street at the last moment, has to dodge past them.

 

He finally pulls into the car wash. Cars are backed up all the way, waiting for service.  The first vehicle waiting in line is the vehicle Jonathan was following. 

 

Jonathan is about to pull over to the sign near the front entrance to wait. The driver, catching sight of him, backs up and turns around. 

 

Jonathan, prepared for the unexpected, grabs hold of the wheel. He starts to chase after the vehicle that is heading toward the back of the car wash. The driver begins swaying in an attempt to lose the couple.  She is now desperate to get rid of them.

 

“It looks like she needs a sobriety test,” Jonathan comments, turning to Jennifer.  Despite the joke he just made, he is onto her.

 

Jonathan swerves, attempting not to let the car get away. The other automobiles turn to prevent from being run into. The lady is swerving all over the place. 

 

A man has just finished getting his car waxed. He is entering his vehicle when the other vehicle and the Harts’ Corniche come dashing in his direction. They speed past him.

 

Jonathan is still swerving, just like the vehicle, he is following. This bizarre way of driving is preventing other cars from making a move, which is causing extreme frustration for all of the customers who just want to continue going about their business.  The cars are now back at the front of the car wash.

 

They are approaching a man who just finished hand washing an elderly lady’s old Volkswagen at the front of the line. Before she can turn, the two vehicles come speeding past her. They swerve in and around the crowd of cars that have decreased. 

 

Vehicles are forced to back out of the way. They were almost crashed into. Some people get out and yell in hostility as Jonathan passes. The two cars are heading toward the back of the car wash again. People are now quickly jumping onto the back of their vehicles in fear of being run down. 

 

Some employees, who by this point have taken all they can stand of this madcap chase, turning to the cars,  shout out, demanding they leave. The manager, who is in his sixties, comes rushing after them.  He has had enough of as well. His face is turning red. The man looks like he is going to explode. 

 

“I’m calling the police if you don’t leave now!” the manager exclaims, raising his voice. 

 

The manager rushes off to take action as the woman finally brings her twisted way of driving to a stop and slows down. Jonathan slows the Corniche down. The other vehicle heads towards the exit. The Hart car is not far behind. She reaches the place to depart the car wash. 

 

The driver once and for all concludes the Harts are not going to give up, so she unexpectedly steps on the gas. The car, turning around, speeds off. 

 

Jonathan, catching on, exchange glances with his wife.  Jonathan, turning the vehicle around, steps on the gas. He dashes off. 

 

The woman is speeding through the tunnel used for automatic washes. The machine, responsible for washing customers' cars, appears to be broken. 

 

Jonathan is hurrying through the tunnel. The female driver, who is ahead of him, has just exited the tunnel. She is fleeing the almost empty car wash.  She dashes through the exit, finally losing the Harts. 

 

All of a sudden, the automatic wash starts to work. Water starts to come down hard on the Corniche.  The Harts look up, not at all surprised the machine decided to start to work while they were rushing after the female driver. Sirens can be heard from a distance. 

 

“Well, that’s one way to get your car washed,” Jennifer says, turning to Jonathan.

 

Jonathan and Jennifer sit motionless as they look on, watching their car get washed. Sirens can be heard coming closer. 

 

 Hart House That Afternoon 

Max stands in the living room, running the sweeper. Freeway sits on the hearth watching. The front door opens, and Jonathan and Jennifer walk into the foyer. Jonathan has a traffic ticket in his hand. They walk over to Max. 

 

“Max!” Jonathan exclaims, patting him on the shoulder. 

 

Max turns off the sweeper and turns to the couple. “Hey, what did the lieutenant say?” He notices the ticket. “Mr. H, what’s with the ticket?”

 

“We had some trouble getting through a car wash. Listen, a judge is not going to grant Pearl a bail hearing,” Jonathan replies. 

 

“Good. I hope Pearl being stuck in the slammer will teach her some lessons. She brought ‘em charges on herself,” Max says. “Good riddance!!" he exclaims gruffly.

 

He walks over to a socket and unplugs the sweeper. Jennifer opens her mouth to tell Max something when the telephone rings. 

 

“I’ll answer,” Jonathan replies, walking over to a table by a couch. 

 

He picks up the receiver. 

 

“Hello. Yes, lieutenant?” Jonathan says into the mouthpiece.

 

He listens to what Gillis has to tell him while Jennifer and Max look on.

 

Jonathan, turning to Jennifer and Max, motions to them to walk over. They walk over and stand by his side. Jonathan holds the receiver up so Jennifer and Max can hear what Gillis is saying.

 

Gillis replies on the other end of the line. “I heard from the Chicago police. Are you ready for this? He murdered his first wife there. Oscar was also born and raised in that state. His real name was Oscar Kerkhoff.” 

 

Jennifer and Max turn to face each other, stunned at discovering Oscar’s real last name. 

 

“Oscar Kerkhoff?!!!” Jennifer and Max exclaim with a look that could mean, “What the heck?"

 

“Very strange! He didn’t appear to be a descendant from the Netherlands,” Jennifer says. 

 

Gillis continues. “As I mentioned, the FBI has a reason to believe he had a partner who was a woman. She could likely be a girlfriend or sister.”

 

“Or another wife,” Jennifer comments. 

 

Jonathan, smiling at Jennifer, is impressed by her theory. He places the receiver back up to his ear. 

 

“Jennifer thinks she could be another wife,” Jonathan replies into the mouthpiece. 

 

 

The Los Angeles Police Department 

 

Lieutenant Gillis sits at his desk on the telephone. He rolls his eyes, thinking Jennifer’s speculation is far-fetched. Gillis is about to reply when his office door opens. The attractive blond bursts in holding a gun in her hand. 

 

“Put the phone down!” the woman exclaims in a demanding tone.

 

Lieutenant Gillis, eying the weapon in her hand, places the receiver on the desk

 

Hart House

 

Jonathan senses he has been cut off. 

 

“Hello? Hello?”

 

He hangs up the receiver and picks it up again. He starts dialing the number of the police station. Jonathan only hears a busy signal. He senses something is wrong. Jonathan hangs up before turning to his wife.

 

“I just got a busy signal. Something is wrong. We better go over to the station, darling,” Jonathan says seriously.

 

He and Jennifer start to exit the living room. Max watches as the couple walk over to the front door. Jonathan opens the door, and they walk out.

 

 

Los Angeles Police Department

 

The Harts dash into the station to find it completely silent. They exchange worried glances. The couple, looking around for an officer, find one male policeman slumped over at his desk. Jonathan feels for a pulse.

 

“He’s alive. He’s just unconscious,” Jonathan says.

 

Jennifer’s eyes come upon a box of cookies on the officer’s desk. The box is opened. A cookie appears missing. Jennifer, picking up the cookie, examines it carefully. Jonathan notices what Jennifer is doing.

 

“I think these cookies have been drugged,” Jennifer replies. 

 

“I’m sure everyone else on duty got hold of those cookies,” Jonathan says, turning to her. “I’m going to check on Wilber.” 

 

He runs toward Gillis’ office. 

 

“I’ll call an ambulance, darling,” Jennifer replies, turning her head around. 

 

She places the cookie back into the box. Jennifer picks up the receiver and dials 911. While waiting for a response, she picks up a pencil from the pencil cup holder. Jennifer, using the pencil, carefully shuts the box. She doesn’t care to see the cookies, especially since all of the officers seem to eat unhealthy food while they’re on duty.

 

 Jonathan barges into the office. He notices Gillis is slumped over and rushes over. Jonathan feels for a pulse. He sighs in relief after seeing no cookie box on his desk. Gillis, who is slowing regaining consciousness, looks up to see Jonathan standing over him. Jennifer hurries into the room.

 

“They’re on their way,” Jennifer says, walking over. She turns to Gillis with concern. “Wilber, are you all right?” 

 

“Other than this headache, I’m in perfect shape,” Gillis replies, placing his hands over the back of his head, which is in pain. 

 

“What happened?” Jonathan asks, examining the back of his head for an injury.

 

“Some crazy blond dame burst in demanding I put the receiver down,” Gillis replies with annoyance in his voice. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances, sensing who the woman was. 

 

Gillis places the receiver back on the hook. “And she asked where Pearl Danko is. That’s all I can remember.” 

 

“Was she in her forties and attractive?” Jennifer asks.

 

“Yeah. How did you know?” Gillis replies, looking up at her, amazed. 

 

A guard rushes into the office and walks over.

 

“Lieutenant Gillis, Pearl Danko has been busted out of her cell! The key is missing,” the guard informs him in a panic.

 

Jonathan, Jennifer, and Gillis turn to face him in shock.

 

“That dame will resort to anything to flee!” Gillis exclaims with frustration. 

 

“I think her disappearance was a kidnapping. One of our cars was stolen. The other prisoners identified a woman who broke Miss Danko out. She was an attractive blond in her forties.”

 

“Just exactly what is going on here?” Gillis asks, baffled. 

 

“Looks like wife number one wants Pearl’s inheritance for herself,” Jonathan replies, turning to Gillis. 

 

“She followed us here after we left our house with the money,” Jennifer says.

 

“I’ll put an APB out on our car and those dames,” Gillis states gruffly. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances, worried about Pearl’s safety.

 

A Hotel Suite The Following Morning 

 

The woman and the two men are sitting in a room in some fancy hotel. The brunette, sitting across from the men, is reading a headline from the Los Angeles Tribune. 

 

“Well, it looks like I can avenge my sister’s death,” the woman says with a wide smile. She tosses the paper to one of the men. “Here. See for yourself.”

 

“What are you talking about, madam? The article is about that dame we framed,” the first man says. 

 

“That woman responsible for Pearl Danko’s escape from prison was Oscar’s first wife,” the woman replies, rolling her eyes as she rises to her feet. “She and that jerk both murdered my sister. When I was going through papers at Audrey’s home, I found a photograph of that woman and Oscar together. It was in a letter written by Oscar I accidentally stumbled across in Audrey’s nightstand. The letter was hidden out of sight, and there was no return address on it. It disappeared before I had a chance to turn it over to the police. Now, that tramp will pay!” A look of hate comes across her face. “We’ll not only kill her. We’ll recover Audrey’s inheritance. And if anyone dares to stop us, we’ll end their lives too!” she exclaims, raising her voice. 

 

“But, Miss Wellington, we don’t have any knowledge of where Pearl and that woman are. Pearl could have been taken anywhere,” the second man says.

 

“I think I know where they are. We’ll find them,” Miss Wellington replies with a smile. 

 

 

 

 

Hart House Soon After

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are sitting on a couch in the living room, waiting on word about Pearl’s disappearance. They are quiet. Jonathan and Jennifer have their arms wrapped around each other. Max stands at the fireplace with a hand on the mantelpiece. Max, in a state of nerves, is smoking a cigar. 

 

“Max, you need to try to relax,” Jonathan says, turning to him. “Why don’t you try getting some sleep? You’ve been up all night. We’ll let you know when we get word on Pearl.”

 

“You need your rest. You can’t go on without sleep,” Jennifer replies, turning to Max.

 

Max, taking his cigar out of his mouth, sighs. He is in a state of exhaustion, struggling to keep his eyes open. His lack of sleep takes a toll on him. Max suddenly falls asleep. 

 

“I’ll get Max to his room, darling,” Jonathan replies, rising to his feet.

 

Jennifer watches as her husband walks over to Max. The cigar is still in his mouth. Jonathan carefully takes the cigar out of Max’s mouth. He looks around for an ashtray. Jennifer, noticing an ashtray by the couch, picks it up. 

 

“Here’s an ashtray, darling,” Jennifer says, handing Jonathan the ashtray. 

 

Jonathan takes the ashtray. He places the cigar in it. Jennifer, reaching over, takes the ashtray. She puts it back down on the table. Jonathan, placing both arms around Max, slowly and carefully starts carrying him out of the room. He starts to walk over to the door leading toward the kitchen.


 Jennifer lifts herself up and hurries over to the door. When Jonathan reaches the door, Jennifer holds it open all the way. Jonathan carries Max into the kitchen. Jennifer, shutting the door, shakes her head, feeling sorry for their friend. She walks over to behind the couch by the kitchen door and just stands. 


The telephone rings. Jennifer, hoping the call is about Pearl’s whereabouts, hurries over to the table. She quickly picks up the telephone receiver. 

 

“Hello?” 

 

“I wish to speak to Mr. F Worthing Manville,” a woman replies seriously.

 

Jennifer tries stalling for time until Jonathan returns. 

 

“I’m so sorry, but Mr. Manville retired to bed late. He is still asleep. May I inquire about the nature of the call?” Jennifer says, masquerading as a maid. 

 

Just then, the door to the kitchen opens. Jonathan walks in. He stops upon seeing his wife on the phone. 

 

“It’s personal. I’ll call back,” the woman replies.

 

“No, please wait. I believe I heard Mr. Manville heading toward the dining room now. Please hold,” Jennifer says desperately. 

 

She places the receiver down gently. Jonathan walks over to the telephone on the table in the foyer.  Jennifer turns to face her husband.

 

“Oh, good morning, Mr. Manville. You have a telephone call. It’s personal."

 

Jonathan picks up the receiver. “Mr. Manville speaking,” Jonathan says gruffly, imitating an elderly man.  

 

Jennifer places the receiver up to her ear and waits for the caller to answer. 

 

“I’m sorry to disturb your sleep, Mr. Worthing Manville, but the call concerns your niece, Pearl,” the woman replies cheerfully.

 

“Now, you listen!” Jonathan exclaims, acting enraged. “Pearl is very precious to me, so don’t you dare lay a hand on her! I’ll pay any amount to see my darling return safely home to me.” 

 

 

A Limousine Somewhere

 

The blond woman sits in the vehicle, pouring herself a glass of Champagne. She sits in the backseat talking to Jonathan on the mobile car phone.

 

“That’s good because I’m asking for two hundred million dollars. I realize Pearl doesn’t come into that large sum of money until after your death, but that’s a small price to pay for the return of your niece,” the woman replies with a devious smile. 

 

Hart House 

 

“Two hundred million?!!!” Jonathan exclaims on the other end of the line. “I don’t know if I can get my hands on that kind of money fast! Where do we make the exchange?” 

 

The Limousine

 

"Oh, I’m willing to take a check. If you value your niece's life, you will bring the money and keep your mouth shut," the woman warns Jonathan. "If I am handed a check, I'll make it out to myself." 

 

She continues on with what she has to say. "Now, about the exchange,” the woman begins. She is taking a sip of Champagne. “Pearl will be handed over to you tonight at The Hollywood Bowl. There is a concert tonight you and your wife will be attending.”

 

Hart House

 

Jonathan exchange glances with Jennifer. 

 

“That’s a last-minute notice to purchase tickets. They may be sold out.”

 

The Limousine

 

“I already purchased two tickets in your name. They will be waiting for you and Mrs. Manville at the box office,” the woman replies, smiling while still sipping Champagne. 

 

“My wife isn’t feeling well. It’s doctor's orders for her to stay in.”

 

“Bring your mistress or your maid for all I care,” the woman says, laughing gayly. “Now, listen carefully,” she says firmly. “If there is any police or FBI involvement, I won’t hesitate to kill Pearl at once!!!” Her voice becomes cold. “And if anyone else tries to interfere with my plans, they too will meet the same fate!!! I will be keeping an eye on you. Don’t try my patience.” Her voice is now calm. “You’ll be seated at the front row. The concert starts at 7:00 so don’t be late. You’re to keep the money in a black suitcase by your side. During intermission, we’ll get down to business just as soon as the crowd dies down. Meet me in the parking lot. Just as soon you hand me over the two hundred million, I’ll see Pearl is released to you at once.”

 

She turns to look at Pearl, who is tied up and gagged. She is helpless as tight ropes are wrapped around her arms. She is tied up between the front seats in the back facing her captor. A cloth is in her mouth to prevent her from making a sound. Pearl, in tears, is staring at the woman with fear on her face. She glances over to the other passenger seat where the lady’s purse is set. A gun is sticking out. 

 

Hart House

 

“Let me speak to Pearl!” Jonathan exclaims firmly.

 

The Limousine

 

“By all means. Just make the conversation short and to the point,” the woman replies, happy to oblige. 

 

The woman places the phone down. She carefully removes the cloth from Pearl’s mouth. She gives her prisoner a harsh look: one that shows to obey instructions or else.

 

“If you dare to breathe one word to your uncle where you’re being held, it’ll be the last word you’ll breathe,” she says coldly.

 

Pearl nods. The woman, picking up the receiver, holds it close to her mouth so Pearl can speak into the mouthpiece. 

 

“Hello, Uncle Manville,” Pearl says, coughing due to her condition.

 

“Pearl, darling, are you all right?” Jonathan asks with a sigh of relief.

 

“Yeah. Just bring the dough, or she’ll kill me. Please,” Pearl begs weakly.

 

The woman takes the receiver away from Pearl and places it back up to her mouth.

 

“You can rest easy now knowing your niece is being taken care of. I have no intention of committing murder unless I am provoked. I’ll see you at the bowl tonight.” 

 

She abruptly hangs up the receiver. She drinks the last sip of Champagne. The woman, reaching over to Pearl, places the cloth back into her mouth. She turns to the driver, who is a police officer.

 

“Let’s go!” the woman orders sternly.

 

“You’ll never get away with this, lady!” the officer exclaims angered.

 

The woman, enraged, reaches over to take the gun out of her purse. She aims the weapon at the driver,  her hand on the trigger.

 

“Mind your own business! Drive off!!!” the woman exclaims, annoyed. 

 

Hart House 

 

Jennifer walks over to Jonathan, who is still standing by the table. 

 

“Jonathan, where are you going to get the two hundred million dollars before tonight?” Jennifer asks.

 

“I’m going to write her a check. I don’t want to give one dime after what she is putting Max through,” Jonathan replies seriously.

 

“Those checks have your name and our address on them,” Jennifer says with her hands on her hips. “She’ll shoot you once she learns she has been deceived,” she tells her husband firmly. 

 

“Darling, I’m not going in costume as Mr. F Worthing Manville,” Jonathan replies, placing his hands around his wife’s shoulders. “Max is. And once the exchange is made, I’ll call Lieutenant Gillis. Besides, the money is going to be handed over in the parking lot at dark. Once she realizes she was deceived, the lieutenant will be placing handcuffs around her hands. I’ll give Max a gun to keep in his tuxedo just to be on the safe side.”

 

“I’ll go along as long you take me with you,” Jennifer says, giving Jonathan a stern look.

 

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Jonathan replies with a sly smile.

 

Jennifer, smiling, reaches over to kiss her husband on the lips. Jonathan wraps his arms around her, and they kiss. 

 

The Hollywood Bowl That Night

 

Jonathan and Jennifer, dressed up in evening clothes, are sitting in the second row in the back facing the stage. The concert is going on. Intermission is almost coming up. The couple is trying their best to enjoy the music under the circumstances. An older and stern-looking man, in his late fifties, with gray hair is staring at Jonathan. Jennifer is watching the performance with a pair of opera glasses while Jonathan just sits back in his chair. 

 

Meanwhile, Max sits in the fifth seat of the front, facing the stage up close. All of the seats are filled up. He is wearing glasses and made up to look like a very old man. He is wearing makeup, and his hair has been dyed white. A cane is by his side. The briefcase is on the ground next to him as instructed over the phone.


Max is wearing a tuxedo along with a bow tie. The tie is causing some discomfort, which he is ignoring. The blond woman is sitting in the row on his right. She is dressed up in a fancy red dress. The woman, holding a program, keeps eying Max. She is smiling, thinking her kidnapping scheme is going off without a hitch. 


Miss Wellington and her two male companions are sitting behind her in a row of seats where they can’t be sighted. Miss Wellington is staring at the woman with pure hate in her eyes. 

 

Jennifer, turning to Jonathan, reaches over to offer him a chance to look through the opera glasses. He turns to her with a smile, motioning to her with his hands he is declining her offer. Jennifer turns back and continues watching the concert through the glasses.

 

The man, who has been staring at Jonathan, leans forward. He gently touches Jonathan on the shoulder. Jonathan turns around in his seat and faces the stranger.

 

“Let’s step outside,” the man orders in a deep, demanding voice. 

 

“Thanks, but I only fall asleep during operas,” Jonathan replies, good-naturedly.

 

He starts to turn around when the man reaches into a pocket and takes out a badge with his left hand.

 

“I’m with the FBI, Mr. Hart. I need to have a word with you,” the man states, showing his badge.

 

Jonathan nods in agreement. He turns to Jennifer.

 

“A man seated behind me is with the FBI. I’m going outside to have a word with him. I’ll be back in time, darling,” Jonathan says, whispering in her ear. 

 

Jennifer nods her head while Jonathan rises to his feet. The agent also rises to his feet. Jennifer watches as Jonathan follows the agent out of the theater. 

 

The two men enter the box office outside. It’s empty. Jonathan, following the agent, walks over to a pillar under the roof above. The man stands against the pillar and faces Jonathan. 

 

“I’m Philip Sheldrake. I know all about the exchange. I tapped your phone yesterday afternoon. I parked a car outside the gate and told your servant I needed to use a phone because of car trouble,” the agent tells him.

 

“I’m impressed. It appears you not only trained for the bureau, you also took lessons from the Actors Studio,” Jonathan replies seriously.

 

“My superiors didn’t want to risk me being caught. Mr. Hart, I can appreciate all the trouble you went through to save Pearl Danko, but let me and my men handle the situation from this moment on. You’re dealing with a dangerous lady who was Oscar’s first wife. Her name is Diana. Like the deceased, she will resort to anything to get her hands on money, including murder. We finally got a break today in learning she was Oscar’s partner.”

 

“Did you learn the identity of the woman my wife saw at L’Orangerie?” 

 

“She’s Vanessa Wellington. Her sister, Audrey, was Oscar’s latest victim. Miss Wellington found a letter by Oscar to Diana among Audrey’s personal letters after she was murdered. Miss Wellington also discovered a photo of Oscar and Diana. Before she could turn those items over to the police in Denver, they were stolen. My men noticed Vanessa Wellington here at the bowl just a few minutes ago. Speaking of Miss Wellington, Lieutenant Gillis is having second thoughts Pearl actually was involved in her fiancé’s death. My men are seated in their assigned seats inside along with the rest of the audience. They’re dressed in tuxedos like us, so Diana won’t know FBI agents are seated throughout the theater. You go back in, relax, and tell your butler he can forget playing F. Worthing Manville. I’ll make the exchange. Let’s go back in. We don’t want to miss intermission,” Sheldrake replies.

 

He starts to head back inside when Jonathan places a firm hand on his shoulder.

 

“Sheldrake, we’re making the exchange my way. Diana has already noticed Max by now, so it’s too late to change actors. She threatened not only Pearl but anyone who stood in her way. There’s no way I’m going to risk Jennifer, Max, or anyone else getting caught up in the crossfire. After Max hands Diana the briefcase and Pearl is let go, then you and your men can take over,” Jonathan states, glaring at him firmly. 

 

Jonathan stares at Sheldrake, waiting for a response. 

 

“All right, Hart. Make the exchange your way, but if anything goes wrong, you’ll have to share in the blame,” Sheldrake replies, taking his hand off of his shoulder. 

 

Jonathan nods and heads back into the theater. Sheldrake stands watching him as sounds of applause can be heard from inside after the last piece of music is  performed. Lieutenant Gillis and three police officers, dressed in tuxedos, approach him from behind. 

 

“How did it go with Jonathan?” Gillis asks.

 

“He’s not willing to go along. We’ll have to go on with our plan without his cooperation,” Sheldrake replies, turning around to face him.

 

“I knew Jonathan wouldn’t back down. I’ve known Jonathan Hart too long to know he can’t be easily persuaded when he has his mind made up.”

 

“Wait out here. I better retake my seat before Jonathan Hart gets suspicious.”

 

Gillis nods as the agent walks back into the theater. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer are sitting in their seats as Sheldrake retakes his seat behind Jonathan. The crowd is breaking up now that intermission has started. Most of the seats are empty soon after. Diana rises from her seat and turns right. She starts to exit the theater as  Max rises to his feet. He picks up the cane and the briefcase. 


Sheldrake, brushing toward him, is hurrying after Diana. Max holds the bottom of his walking stick out upon seeing the agent coming his way. Sheldrake, in his haste to catch Diana, trips over the cane. He falls to the ground.

 

“I’m sorry about that, mac, but Mr. H ain’t havin’ you takin’ over my role,” Max says, looking at him with a smile.

 

He carefully steps over the FBI agent, who is holding onto his foot, wincing in pain. 

 

“My foot may be broken!” Sheldrake exclaims in a panic.

 

“Nah, I’m sure it’s just sprained if anythin’. Try walkin’ on it. If that don’t help, see if there is a doctor in the house,” Max replies, walking off in the same direction as Diana.

 

Sheldrake looks after him with shock at the stunt the Harts’ servant just pulled on him. 

 

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Gillis and his officers are pacing outside. Gillis glances to see the time on his wristwatch. 

 

“Sheldrake should be making the exchange now. Let’s go,” Gillis says, turning to the officers. 

 

They hurry into the theater. 

 

Diana is standing outside in the parking lot. She is pacing in front of the limousine. Max, using his cane, is limping. He is walking towards her with the briefcase.

 

“Stay where you are! Don’t move, Mr. Manville!” Diana orders, turning around and noticing Max. 

 

Max stops walking instantly upon hearing the demanding tone of her voice. Diana storms over to him, impatiently.

 

“You’re late!” Diana exclaims, snapping at Max. 

 

She snatches the briefcase from him. 

 

“I’m sorry. Some idiot tripped over my cane just as I was risin’ from my seat,” Max replies gruffly. He is imitating Jonathan’s elderly man’s voice from on the telephone. 

 

Diana, shooting him a look, starts to open the briefcase. 

 

“You have the two hundred million! I want my niece!” Max exclaims impatiently.

 

“Don’t risk an attack, old man! I’m just taking a look as a precaution. Your niece will be released just as soon as I am sure you didn’t deceive me,” Diana says, opening the case. 

 

She looks into the case and takes out the check. Diana, seeing the amount of two hundred million dollars written out, smiles with satisfaction. She places the check back into the case, which she snaps shut. 

 

“Now, about my niece-“ Max starts to say.

 

“She’ll be handed over to you right away. I’m a woman of my word,” Diana replies, cutting him off. She is carrying the case. 

 

She smiles, cheerfully at him for a moment. Diana storms over to the limousine. She opens the passenger door and steps into the backseat. Max watches with curiosity. Diana appears to be untying someone in the back. She steps aside as Pearl steps out of the vehicle. 


Pearl, seeing Max, is overcome with joy at seeing he came to her rescue. Max smiles as Pearl runs over to him. Pearl embraces him as tears come into her eyes. Max’s anger, frustration, and disappointment with his ex-wife have been forgotten now that Pearl has been set free from her kidnapper.

 

“Are you all right, Pearl?” Max asks, grinning ear to ear. 

 

“I am now. Thank you,” Pearl replies, placing a comforting hand on his cheek. 

 

She kisses him on the cheek.

 

“Enjoy your family reunion. I have a plane to catch,” Diana says, turning to them. 

 

Just then, Vanessa Wellington and the two men with her walk into the parking lot. They come up behind Max and Pearl.

 

“Your plans have just been changed, Diana. I finally get my chance to avenge my sister’s death,” Vanessa insists sternly. 

 

“Oscar is dead thanks to you! Your twit of a sister finally got justice for her murder,” Diana says impatiently with a tone of coldness in her voice. 

 

“Audrey’s life wasn’t all you stole from her! You and Oscar took her rightful inheritance! I demand you give back all those millions, or I am going to see to it you join your late husband!” Vanessa exclaims, raising her voice.

 

Just then, Lieutenant Gillis and his men walk into the parking lot. They have their guns in hand. 

 

“There’ll be no more killings, Miss Wellington. I’m Lieutenant Gillis. I’m placing you and Diana under arrest,” Gillis informs the women. He walks over to Diana slowly. “Now, hand me over the briefcase.”

 

“You deceived me! I told you what would happen if the police were involved!” Diana exclaims, turning to Max, outraged.

 

Max holds onto Pearl tightly as they fear for their lives. Just then, Jonathan walks into the parking lot.

 

“If anyone is responsible for the deception, it’s me. I didn’t call the police. My phone was tapped without my knowledge,” Jonathan replies, standing by Vanessa. He turns to Gillis. “I should have suspected you would pull a stunt like this. If anyone dies, you just may be assigned to a desk job.”

 

“What happened to Sheldrake?” Gillis asks, turning to Jonathan, speechless.

 

“He took a tumble thanks to some help. I had a strong feeling he couldn’t be trusted.” 

 

Meanwhile, Jennifer is watching the confrontation from a safe distance. 


Vanessa turns to Jonathan. “Well, if it isn’t the man from the restaurant! Refresh my memory again. Who are you?” 

 

“Jonathan Hart,” Jonathan replies, turning to her. 

 

“Wait a minute! You’re the man who lives at 3100 Willow Pond Drive, where I shipped the money to,” Diana says speechless.

 

“You’re also the woman who followed my wife and me to the police station. My only regret is I can’t ask you to pay for my ticket after you left us in our car at the car wash.”

 

“What in the world is going on?” Diana asks in a demanding tone. She has lost all of her patience and wants her confusion cleared up at once.

 

“Tell her,” Max insists, poking Pearl in the shoulder. He is speaking in his normal voice.

 

“Hell! I guess it’s time I told the truth,” Pearl confesses, tears streaming down her face. “I ain’t no heiress. I lied. My uncle passed on years ago.” She points to Max. “This is Max, my ex-husband. He works for Mr. and Mrs. Hart.”

 

Vanessa bursts into laughter. “I love it! You lied about who you really are? I guess there is such a thing as poetic justice.”

 

“Shut up! No one gets away with double-crossing me!” Diana yells, boiling with rage. She pulls a gun out of her purse.

 

Max, Pearl, and Jonathan turn to look at her with alarm. Max pushes Pearl behind him.

 

“Put your guns down now, or I’ll shoot everyone!” Diana orders, turning to Gillis and his men.

 

Gillis, turning to the officers, motions to them to obey. They place their weapons down along with Gillis. 

 

“And you miss compulsive liar come over here!” Diana exclaims, aiming her gun at Pearl.


Pearl, with fear on her face, walks over to Diana. Diana grabs Pearl around the neck and aims the gun at her head.

 

“If anyone tries to stop me, Pearl is good as dead!” Diana exclaims with her hand on the trigger. 

 

Max, Jonathan, Gillis, the officers, Vanessa, the two men, and Jennifer, watch horrified. Diana, walking backward, continues to hold Pearl captive. She removes her hand from the trigger now that their backs are towards the open door leading to the backseats. Just as Diana and Pearl are about to step in, the car speeds away. The women fall onto the pavement. Diana’s gun falls out of her hand. 


Jonathan, rushing over to the two women, picks up the weapon. He aims the gun at Diana, who is lifting herself to her feet. Pearl, lifting herself up, runs to Max. 

 

Before anyone can make a move, the orchestra starts. Intermission has come to an end. Everyone, distracted by the music, turns to face the theater. Diana now that the attention is no longer on her knocks the gun out of Jonathan’s hand by hitting his hand with the briefcase. She picks up the gun and makes off toward the theater. 


Vanessa and the two men chase after her. Jonathan is fast on his feet. He runs after them. Gillis and the officers turn around and watch. The officers pick up their weapons. They start to run off.

 

“No, we’ll start a panic,” Gillis says, placing a hand on the second policeman. 

 

Diana is running through the theater. She is rushing past the front seats. Vanessa and her men are running after her. The crowd, noticing  Diana has a gun, burst out screaming. They take cover behind their chairs. 


The commotion, having everyone in the theater in a panic, the concert has come to an abrupt halt. The orchestra has gone into hiding with their instruments. Someone in the crowd yells out, “Call the police!!!” 

 

Guards are making their way down the aisle to apprehend Diana. Diana, noticing them running towards her, takes a shot at them. The guards duck to avoid the shot. People scream in terror. Jonathan runs into the theater and notices Diana’s presence has disrupted the concert.


He sees Vanessa and the men running after Diana. Jonathan brushes past the audience. They begin hurrying to exit the theater as Jonathan dodges through. The manager’s voice comes over the speakers asking everyone to exit soon as possible and remain calm. 

 

Diana runs to the stage with Vanessa and the two men behind her. She climbs up to the now-abandoned stage. Vanessa and the men climb onto the stage. Diana stops and takes two shots at them. They dodge the bullets before continuing to chase her. 


Jonathan climbs aboard the stage now. Jennifer rushes into the theater that is almost deserted. She turns around, looking for her husband. Jennifer, turning to the stage, notices Jonathan looking for a way to fight the women and men off. 

 

A wheeled scaffolding, standing underneath some lights directly above the orchestra seats, catches Jonathan’s attention. Jonathan, using his Navy pilot training to act on instinct, climbs up. Vanessa and Diana are now on top of each other, engaging in a cat-fight. Their hatred for the other has gotten the better of them. Jennifer, watching the women, is appalled by their very unladylike behavior. She has her mouth opened. During all of the times she and Jonathan fought off villains, she has never witnessed any of them fighting each other: let alone with such contempt. Vanessa’s men are trying to intervene to get their employer off of Oscar’s first wife. 

 

By now, Jonathan has reached the lights. He is holding onto a part of the rafters tightly with both of his hands. Jonathan is looking around carefully for a safe way to jump down. He knows one false move, he will find himself being injured. He has to act quickly, but with caution.


Jonathan, noticing a rope, carefully lets go with just one hand. Jennifer is watching. She is nervous about her husband’s safety. Jonathan reaching out, grabs hold of the rope. Jonathan, holding on with that one hand firmly, releases his other hand from the rafter.


He swiftly grabs hold of the rope now that both of his hands are free. Jonathan repels down the rope. The women and men are right under him. The cat-fight has taken over their attention. Jonathan lands on the men.

 

The men, now having him to deal with, are throwing out all the punches. Jennifer dashes toward the stage and climbs aboard. Jennifer, rushing toward the scaffolding, pushes it in the direction of the two sinister men. Jonathan is standing across from them as they exchange punches. The scaffolding, rolling down the stage, knocks the two men down. Jonathan is standing back, having seen the scaffolding coming. 


Diana and Vanessa are now standing up as they move around like boxers in a ring, waiting for the other to make the first move. At the same time, they choose to punch each other’s face.

 

“I’ll handle the women, darling,” Jennifer says, heading toward the other side of the stage. 

 

The two men are coming through. Jonathan, noticing they have regained consciousness, knows it’s up to him to fight them off. They rise to their feet. Before the men can lay a hand on him, Jonathan throws a nasty punch at one of them. Once again, Jonathan is in a fistfight with the two men.

 

Jennifer runs to the instruments that were left behind. She picks up a Cymbal. Jennifer, sneaking up to the women, comes up behind Vanessa. She and Diana are rolling around on top of each other. Jennifer hits Vanessa over the head with the instrument. Vanessa, shaky due to the impact and loud noise of the Cymbal, slumps over in a faint. 


Diana now that her one enemy has been defeated rises to her feet to attack Jennifer. Before she can make a move to pick up the gun that fell along with the briefcase during the cat-fight, Jennifer kicks the gun across the stage with a foot hard as she can. Diana is enraged and turns to Jennifer with a look of murder. Jennifer instantly drops the Cymbal and runs away.

 

Diana is running after her. Jennifer hurries over to a spotlight on the right side of the stage, out of sight from audiences’ seats. Just as Diana is approaching her, Jennifer shines the spotlight on her. The light is too strong for Diana. Diana, covering up her face, takes a few steps back. 


She shuts her eyes, but the spotlight is still too bright for her. Diana is about to step back far away when she slips on her high heels. She falls, landing on her back. Jennifer, still shining the light, watches as Diana opens her eyes. She reaches over to her ankle twisted, wincing in pain. 

 

Vanessa has regained consciousness. Jennifer sees the lady staring at her as Vanessa rises to her feet. Just as Jennifer is about to shine the spotlight at her, she takes a step back. Her foot activates a switch accidentally. The switch turns off all the lights. Now the stage is covered in darkness!

 

“Nice going!” Jennifer exclaims, scolding herself. 

 

Jonathan hits the two men, knocking them off balance. The darkness has made it impossible for them to see to fight back. Jonathan feels for a pocket in his tuxedo. He reaches in and feels for a lighter. Jonathan, feeling the lighter, takes it out. He turns the lighter on. Jonathan turns around to face Jennifer.

 

“Are you all right?” 

 

“I’m fine. I’m sorry,” Jennifer says, turning to him. “I accidentally activated a switch.”

 

“Don’t be sorry, darling. I can fight them off better in the dark. Just don’t take another step,” Jonathan replies. 

 

Jennifer notices the two men have come through.

 

“Jonathan!” Jennifer exclaims. 

 

Jonathan turns just in time to see the men glaring at him. Jonathan, still holding the lighter, runs toward the instruments. He uses his lighter like a candle to see his way around in the dark. He looks at all of the instruments, examining them to see which one would be light enough to hold while using it as a weapon. His eyes come upon a Trumpet, but Jonathan has a look that shows he treasures the instrument too much to ruin it. He instead picks up the French Horn. 

 

Jonathan runs to the men, who are feeling their way through the dark, by touching the ground. They can feel Jonathan’s feet when he approaches them by surprise. Jonathan drops the French Horn onto the second man’s head. The man is completely helpless to see now. 


Jonathan, turning to the first man, grabs him by the arm and swings him around to the front of the stage. Jonathan, using his foot, kicks him hard in the back. The man, screaming, goes flying over the stage. He lands on the ground with his back towards the front of the stage.

 

Jonathan walks over to stand at the foot of the stage. He looks down at the man with a harsh look.

 

“Don’t make me have to perform an encore!”  

 

All of a sudden, the bright lights of the stage burst back on to Jonathan's surprise. He turns around to see Jennifer standing behind the spotlight. Jennifer, noticing the look on her husband’s face, shrugs as a response. 


Just then, Vanessa, now that she can see again, starts to storm over to Jennifer like she had before Jennifer accidentally turned off all the lights. Jennifer, hearing her footsteps, once more grabs hold of the spotlight. She aims it directly in Vanessa’s eyes, blinding the woman.

 

Vanessa shuts her eyes and places her hands over them in her best effort to shut out the strong light. Jonathan, proud of his wife’s ability to fight on her own without the use of her fists, watches with pride as Jennifer continues shining the bright light. He shuts off the lighter and places it back in his pocket.

 

Footsteps can be heard coming into the theater from the parking lot. Jonathan turns to see Lieutenant Gillis and his men rush towards the stage. Now that the police have arrived to take over, Jennifer walks over to her husband’s side. She looks down at the first man lying on the ground, still passed out.  

 

“Is this the part where the fat lady sings?” Jennifer asks, exchanging looks with Jonathan.

 

Jonathan smiles at his wife, holding back the laughter from inside him. 

 

Lieutenant Gillis walks over to the first man and looks down at him. He looks up at the stage and watches his men approach Diana, Vanessa, and the second man who is lifting the French Horn off of his head. They begin to place them under arrest. Gillis turns to Jonathan and Jennifer, speechless at how they managed to fight off the villains on their own.

 

“We had our hands full putting on a show of our own,” Jonathan remarks, looking down at Gillis with Jennifer.

 

Gillis continues looking up at the couple, not sure what to make of the outcome. He bends down and takes out his handcuffs, intending to arrest the first    man who is finally regaining consciousness. Max and Pearl walk over to the foot of the stage.

 

“Mr. and Mrs. H, are you ok?” Max asks, looking up at them with Pearl by his side.

 

“We’re fine, Max,” Jonathan replies.

 

“What a night!” Jennifer exclaims with a huge sigh. She turns to Jonathan. “I’m exhausted!”

 

“I just hope you aren’t too tired to make love,” Jonathan says with a sly expression on his face.

 

Jennifer, touched by her husband’s response, smiles.

 

“No, never, darling,” Jennifer replies, placing her arms around his neck. She gives him a wink.

 

The Bus Station The Next Day

 

Jonathan and Jennifer walk out of the station with Pearl beside them. They are carrying her luggage as they walk over to the bus that is about to board for Arizona.

 

“Thank you!” Pearl exclaims.

 

“For what?” Jennifer asks, turning to her.

 

“Well, comin’ to my rescue and gettin’ me out of the mess I got myself into. Hell! I don’t blame Max for refusin’ to see me off. He could have been killed last night, and it would have been my fault.”

 

They reach the curb where the bus is parked. Other people are lined up.

 

“Oh, and Jennifer, I’m sorry I purchased the ticket in your name. That and breakin’ out of jail ain’t smart. I guess when it comes to brains, that’s somethin’ I ain’t got,” Pearl says. 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances.

 

“Well, I think I can speak for the both of us when I say Jennifer and I are just glad it’s all over,” Jonathan replies.

 

“All aboard for Phoenix, Arizona,” the bus driver informs as he collects the passengers’ tickets. 

 

“Tell Maxie goodbye for me,” Pearl says, turning to the Harts. 

 

Jennifer, hearing a car horn, turns to see Max pulling up at the curb in the station wagon. 

 

“I don’t think that’ll be necessary,” Jennifer replies, turning back to Pearl with a smile. 

 

Max is walking over to them, carrying a bouquet of roses. 

 

“Hey, Pearl,” Max says with a smile. 

 

“MAXIE!!!” Pearl exclaims about to burst.

 

“Here, I picked up the flowers from the florist on the way over here,” Max replies, handing her the bouquet.

 

“Oh, you shouldn’t have!” Pearl exclaims with a warm smile. 

 

“It wasn’t nothin’. They were on sale.” 

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn to smile at each other after hearing Max bought the flowers cheaply.

 

“So typical! But, as they say, it’s the thought that counts,” Pearl replies. 

 

She admires the flowers before turning back to Max. “Thank you, Maxie! I’m glad you came to see me off,” Pearl says, patting him on the cheek gently. 

 

“I couldn’t let you leave without wishin’ you goodbye. Despite everythin’ we were in love once. I’ll always treasure ‘em happy times we shared,” Max replies with a smile.

 

Max, leaning over, kisses Pearl as Jonathan and Jennifer look on, happy that Max and Pearl are parting on good terms. 

 

“Goodbye,” Pearl says. An idea springs into her mind. “Hey, I got a brilliant idea!!! I know this guy who needs someone to dig up an oil well in Texas he found.” Pearl, overjoyed by the thought, turns to the Harts with a broad smile. “It would be an investment for Hart Industries.” She is on cloud nine. “Hart Oil!!! Just think of all the dough ‘em wells could bring in!”

 

Jonathan and Jennifer turn to face each other with a look. Max shakes his head in disappointment that Pearl still hasn’t learned her lesson. Jonathan and Jennifer, sighing, places Pearl’s luggage down. Pearl is walking up ahead as she is one of the last passengers to board. She is so enthusiastic about her new scheme, that is all she can concentrate on.

 

“We would need to run some tests on his land,” Pearl continues, not realizing she is talking to herself. 

 

Max, exasperated by Pearl going back to scheming, snatches the bouquet away from her. The Harts and Max start to walk off, leaving Pearl to dreaming and boarding the bus alone. Max is heading back to the station wagon. Jonathan, taking Jennifer by the hand, walk hand in hand together while strolling to their car in the parking lot. 

Write a comment

Comments: 6
  • #1

    Dinah Senna (Wednesday, 12 February 2020 19:24)

    excellent story, thank you very much

  • #2

    Barbara (Saturday, 15 February 2020 19:26)

    Great story! Enjoyed it very much! Thanks for writing and look forward to the next one!

  • #3

    Karen Wilson (Monday, 17 February 2020 07:58)

    It was great thanks until next one

  • #4

    Karen Duckworth (Monday, 17 February 2020 18:51)

    Great episode! Love ALL the action scenes! As usual the Hart humor and love comes through in your writing...I can see each character in my head as if I was watching it on the original series. Keep up the wonderful work!!

  • #5

    Dianne Russ, February 20,2020 (Thursday, 20 February 2020 18:57)

    Just finished episode 14. It was absolutely great. I couldn’t put it down. I started it and stayed with it until I finished.Very good—I lived it as I read it. Excellent work Sarah.

  • #6

    naraida Tamisen (Wednesday, 24 February 2021 16:47)

    Love it and ♥️♥️♥️