Get documents about "Charlie Chan at College
Shared by: wuyunqing
-
Stats
- views:
- 1
- posted:
- 9/25/2011
- language:
- English
- pages:
- 58
Document Sample
1
2
Charlie Chan
At College
—
The Story
By Virginia Johnson
(with friends)
3
CHARLIE CHAN AT COLLEGE
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Charlie Chan: Warner Oland
Lee Chan: Keye Luke
Jimmy Chan: Sen Yung
Sally Winton: Pauline Moore (CC at Treasure Island, Reno)
Irene Chow: Lotus Long (Mr. Moto)
Samantha ―Sam‖ Wu: Iris Wong (CC in Reno, Rio)
Ralph Thompson: Kane Richmond (Murder Over New York)
Tom Mallory: Robert Lowery (CC in Reno)
Captain Dormers: Guy Usher (CC at the Opera)
―Flat Foot‖ Flynn: Fred Kesley (CC at the Opera)
Coleman Winton: Selmer Jackson (CC at the Race Track)
Leyland Sanders: Russell Hicks (CC in Shanghai)
Harry Walden: Marc Lawrence (CC in Honolulu)
San Toy: Barbara Jean Wong (The Red Dragon)
Ling Toy: Philip Ahn (CC in Honolulu)
Frederick, the Maitre d‘: Franklyn Pangborn
4
Pauline Moore as Sally Winton
5
Kane Richmond as
Ralph Thompson
Robert Lowery
as Tom Mallory
Philip Ahn as Franklyn Pangborn as
Ling Toy Frederick, the Maitre d‘
6
CHARLIE CHAN AT COLLEGE
In Memory Of Pauline Moore
The University of Southern California campus was slowing down now
at the end of the spring semester.
Just a few people were coming out of the buildings that made up
Dorm Row.
Like the two young men coming out of one with their father between
them from one of the dorms in the middle of the block.
―Must congratulate number two son surviving first year at college,‖
said the older man.
―Surprised the heck out of the family,‖ said the older boy, ―didn‘t he,
Pop!‖
―Must give credit where credit due,‖ Charlie said, turning to his
younger son and grinning. ―Chip off old chopstick applied nose to
grindstone of learning. Now must apply nose to grindstone of relaxation.‖
―Now that’s a grindstone I can handle any day,‖ said Jimmy.
7
They head for the street and Lee points to a store on the other side.
―That‘s the ‗Toy Store,‘ Pop!‖
―I go there all the time!‖
They almost run into Charlie Chan as he stops to look at Jimmy.
― ‗Toy Store?‘ Has freshman son been wasting time away from
important college studies in an establishment for children,‖ asked Charlie.
He turned to his older son. ―And does # 1 son now seek to displace his
younger siblings in the sandbox back home in Honolulu?‖
―Pop, it‘s not what you think! It‘s a swell place where all the students
go!‖
Lee grinned at his brother.
―You have to admit it‘s kind of screwy!‖
Charlie stared at Lee.
―Screwy?‖
―Right,‖ said Jimmy. ―Strictly off the beam, Pop!‖
―Strictly off BEAM?‖ Charlie shook his head. ―Am afraid ancient
ears of honorable father not tuned to radio frequency of modern sons.‖
―It‘s owned by a Mr. Ling Toy,‖ said Lee, ―a nice old guy. I heard
that it started out as a grocery store with a soda fountain in the back.‖
―Yeah,‖ Jimmy continued, ―but they started selling more malteds and
burgers and fewer groceries! Mr. Toy, the owner, has kept so busy at the
soda fountain that the shelves have gotten bare enough that we started
asking him to put out ketchup and mustard bottles with napkins and straws.‖
―I hear that Mr. Toy finally put some tables in one corner,‖ Lee
grinned.
―For the older students,‖ Jimmy shot back, also grinning, ―who are too
wobbly to stand up like us big athletes!‖
Charlie shook his head as he prepared to cross the street.
―Will take humble self to other side of street if only to clear head and
gain respite from double dose of confusion.‖
He looks both ways and steps into the street with his sons just behind
him.
8
They reached the middle of the street when a car roars around the
corner and heads for Chan. Jimmy tackled his father into a space between
two cars on the far side.
Chinese girls come out of one of the other dorms and one called out as
she ran over to the Chans.
―Jimmy!‖
Another Chinese girl came out of the Toy Store, wearing a silky not-
quite traditional Chinese outfit with western style sleeves. She is wearing a
white apron over it and a little white cap with ruffles in her hair.
She called into the store, ―Dad! There‘s been an accident!‖
The Chans were getting themselves up, dusting their clothes off.
―Jimmy,‖ the first girl reached his side, ―are you all right?‘
―That driver tried to run you over, Pop!‖ Lee looked at his father.
―Are you okay?‖
―Wow,‖ said Jimmy, ―that was a close shave!‖
―Fortunately, elderly father still have plenty whiskers. Thank you
both for timely shove off of bull‘s eye.‖
―You said it, Pop,‖ Jimmy said. ―I thought you were a goner, sure!‖
― ‗Pop‘ not ‗going‘ anywhere yet, it seems.‖
The first girl caught Charlie‘s attention and she glanced to the
sidewalk.
―Don‘t you think we ought to . . . ?‖
―Yes,‖ Charlie replied, ―best leave street to automobiles.‖
A man about his age comes over with the girl who came out of the
Toy Store and they both bow as the Chans reach the sidewalk.
―Is everyone all right? My name is Ling Toy. This is my daughter,
San Toy. May I humbly suggest the miserable shelter of my humble
establishment as a refuge from unexpected dangers of Los Angeles street for
honorable gentleman, Charlie Chan, whose famous face has often graced our
city‘s newspapers?‖
―Charlie Chan,‖ she exclaimed. ―That‘s your father, Jimmy?‖
―Am warmed by both your kindness and your overly generous
praise,‖ Charlie said. ―Hospitable offer of comfort in time of great trial is
like spoonful of honey in cup of bitter tea, most welcome by humble self and
sons. Thank you so much!‖
Ling toy lead the group back to his store as the first girl got between
Jimmy and his father to support Charlie by his elbow, pushing San Toy out
of the way.
9
San Toy stood there momentarily, stomped her foot and grabbed
Charlie‘s other elbow, pushing Lee out of the way. Lee grinned at Jimmy
who rolled his eyes.
............................................................
Charlie, Lee and Jimmy decided on a table as Ling Toy nudges San
Toy.
―Daughter, please bring food and tea for our honored guests.‖
―Yes, father,‖ she said with an unhappy glance at Sam.
The other girl nudged Jimmy. He turns quickly to his father.
―Oh, Pop, may I present Miss Samantha Wu?‖
―Number 2 son remembers his manners to the benefit of ‗Pop‘ and
number 1 son,‖ Charlie smiled. He pulled out the chair next to him.
―Please, take seats and join detective who finds it preferable to sit following
close call with car outside. Charlie Chan and sons nearly paid unexpected
visit to realm of honorable ancestors!‖
―Thank you, and forgive me for being so forward, Mr. Chan,‖ she said
as she sat down, ―but . . . you see . . . I‘m a nursing student—―
―And a good one too!‖
San Toy interrupted with a tray of tea and treats for all. She tried to
push a chair between Sam and Jimmy but Lee pointedly made more room
for her on Jimmy‘s other side.
The front door opened for another young Chinese girl who stopped to
look around quickly with a note pad and pencil in hand.
―Mr. Chan! Mr. Chan! I wrote down the number and description of
the car that tried to hit you!‖
Lee got up to pull another chair over next to him as she tore off a
sheet to hand to Charlie. She smiled at Lee as she sat down.
―A friend is calling the police with the information. It had a coffee
brown body with a dirty cream top. I think the driver had a tweed jacket and
reddish blond hair. Oh, and he wore glasses with tinted lenses. I think he
was of about medium height.‖
―How could you tell,‖ Jimmy gasped.
―I don‘t know,‖ she turned to him, just as surprised, ―but he was
sitting tall enough to see over the dashboard but short enough that you could
see the top of his head framed in the car window.
Lee was trying hard to not laugh at his brother.
―Are you going out for the police department, Miss . . . ?‖
―Oh!‖ Her eyes were wide open. ―No!‖
She turned to Charlie.
10
―My name is Irene Chow, Mr. Chan. My father owns and runs a
newspaper in Chinatown in San Francisco and . . . well . . . . Well, Mr.
Chan, he wants me to be a secretary, but I want to be a reporter and work my
way up like he did so I can help him run his paper!‖
―A devoted child is a father‘s greatest gift,‖ he gave her a fatherly
smile. ―Great struggle for honorable child . . . to make parent happy or to
ease his burden.‖
―But, you see, Mr. Chan, I know that car! This isn‘t the first time I‘ve
seen it! There‘s a gang here and the man that runs it . . . that‘s his car.‖
―You are sure,‖ Charlie leaned closer.
―Sure?‖ Irene crossed her arms and leaned on the table. ―You‘re a
bet! Dad thought he‘d be nice and decided to ‗let‘ me cover a story and sent
me over here for the big art exhibit. Dad doesn‘t know it, but in my spare
time I go over and try to pick up nice juicy stories. I pester our local officer
on the beat, Sgt. Flynn, so often that he threatens to have the cops at the
station adopt me as their unofficial mascot, I‘m underfoot so often.‖
―Pretty cute mascot,‖ Lee grinned.
―And don‘t you forget it!‖
―I‘m here for the exhibit, too.‖
―Yes, I know,‖ Irene said. ―In fact, you are the reason that my father
sent me to Los Angeles to cover the art show here. It isn‘t every day that the
son of a famous Chinese detective is involved in a big art show after
winning an award in Paris!‖ are the reason that my father sent me to Los
Angeles to cover the art show here. It isn‘t every day that the son of a
famous Chinese detective is involved in a big art show after winning an
award in Paris!‖
Charlie gently waved his hand.
―Much time to interview budding artist later, but owner of malevolent
car—‖
―Mr. Chan,‖ Irene looked back at Charlie, ―I‘ve seen ‗Flat-Foot‘
Flynn bring this guy in too often—‖
―Excuse, please, but what is ‗Flat-Foot‘ Flynn?‖
The young people at the table laughed and Jimmy leaned forward.
―That‘s what we call Sgt. Flynn behind his back.‖
―Such disrespect from the mouths of today‘s youth.‖
―Sorry, Pop,‖ Lee said, ―but you‘ll see what we mean when you meet
him yourself.‖
Charlie shook his head as Irene spoke up.
11
―But, Mr. Chan, I‘ve seen the head of this gang driving around the
campus here in that car. A couple of times he‘s pulled over and made cracks
about how a mouse could get caught by a cat if it squeaks too often.‖
―Perhaps streets are not save for young moth who wishes to fly too
close to dangerous flame.‖
―You‘re not turning into an old fuddy-duddy, are you Mr. Chan?‖
―No, merely make humble suggestion that for time being, you must be
very careful. Is there someone you trust to accompany you on unexpectedly
wicked streets?‖
Irene looked thoughtfully at Charlie for a moment and then turned to
glance at Lee and flushed deeply.
Charlie smiled before shaking his head and continuing.
―Only alternative is to act as secretary to elderly Chinese detective
while he is here to speak with head of University for series of guest
lectures.‖
―She could kill two birds with one stone,‖ said Lee. ―Or . . . job . . .
well, you know what I mean, Pop!‖
―This is no time for talk of birds and stones,‖ said Charlie, standing.
―We go now to see honorable President of University, Mr. Winton!‖
............................................................
Sally Winton sat on the edge of the desk of her father, University
President Coleman Winton, in his office. She fidgeted with the band around
her hat. The two had been discussing Sally‘s love life. She was dejected,
unable to convince Winton that Tom Mallory is worthy of her.
―Sally, you may as well give up. I simply don‘t like Tom.‖
―But, father, after all you hardly know him.‖
―I know him well enough to dislike him. Sally, I‘m asking you as your
father to give Brandon Mitchell another chance.‖ Winton leaned his elbows
on his desk. ―Brandon has been in love with you almost since the day the
two of you met. Trust me, dear; most people never even get a chance of
love on that level.‖
―He left to join the Navy without even talking to me about it first,‖
Sally‘s voice was low. ―It was almost as if he wanted to get away from me.‖
―Now you know that isn‘t true. Brandon has the same streak of
independence that I‘ve seen in you since you were in diapers. Neither of
you can change the other. If the two of you can ever grow up enough to
learn the art of compromise . . . ,‖ he stopped, seeing that she didn‘t want to
listen. ―Have you at least told Brandon about Tom?‖
Sally got up to walk to a window.
12
―Can you tell him?‖
No answer.
―I‘ll wager you never will.‖ Winton went to stand next to her.
―Doesn‘t that tell you the state of your heart?‖
Sally turned from the window in frustration, unable to argue with her
father.
―Dear, it‘s been just the two of us since your mother died 10 years
ago,‖ he stood up and walked to her. ―The only way I could let you go from
my home is if it‘s with someone I know will make you as happy as your
mother and I were.‖
He ran his hands over his hair.
―I can‘t help the feeling that Tom is basically a scoundrel. Plus, I
don‘t think you‘ve been fair to Brandon. You never have let him explain
what happened—‖
―Oh, Dad—‖
His intercom on his desk clicked on.
―Mr. Chan is here to see you, President Winton.‖
He strode over and clicked a lever.
―Please send him in, Miss Danley.‖ He pulled a handkerchief out of a
back pocket and handed it to her.
She playfully snatched it out of his hand as she smiled weakly.
―You know what your trouble is, Dad? You know me better then I
sometimes like!‖
Charlie Chan and Company enter President Winton‘s office. Sally
immediately recognized Irene as someone she‘s meet here and there on the
campus and they share winks.
―Well, Charlie,‖ said Winton, moving to Chan and shaking hands and
laughing. ―You took your time getting here! Welcome, welcome!‖
Charlie bowed before his friend‘s effusiveness.
―Thank you so much. Very sorry that immutable fates dictated slight
detour on path to your office. Please to introduce sons number one and two.
Lee here for big art exhibition and Jimmy currently attempting to honor
Chan family tree with exemplary performance at your university.‖
―Oh, Pop,‖ Jimmy grinned, slightly embarrassed.
―And don‘t forget we have an ace reporter in our midst,‖ Lee
interrupted, looking at the girl next to him. ―Irene Chow from San
Francisco.‖
She blushed and started wagging a finger at him.
―If you think flattery will make me give a favorable criticism of your
paintings—―
13
―Now, now,‖ Winton said. ―Let me welcome all of you! Let me
present my daughter, Mr. Chan. . . .‖
―Most humble to meet delightful offspring of most august host! May
I introduce--‖
―Okay, Pop! We‘ll take it from here,‖ Jimmy said as he stepped
forward to Sally.
Charlie flung his hands out as he looked at Winton who was laughing
himself.
Sally laughed and finally turned to Charlie.
―Our University is honored to have you presiding over the Forsythe
lectures. We‘ve been so excited about the coup of having someone of your
caliber lecturing on criminology here.‖
―Flattery falls on ancient ears like feathered caress of summer breeze.
Am most honored to speak about life‘s ambition. Unfortunately, cannot stay
just now. Must find lodgings for humble self and offspring, and must
arrange for retrieval of ample luggage—―
―Oh, my, I‘ve done it again.‖ Winton started writing on a bit of note
paper. ―Charlie, please excuse my absent-mindedness, but I already have
lodgings ready for you and your family. My late wife‘s family home is free
and Sally and I simply will not take ‗no‘ for an answer. Here is the
address.‖
Charlie took the note but Jimmy read it aloud:
2039 Pinehurst Road
―We will,‖ Winton continued, ―also arrange to have your baggage
picked up and delivered to the house.‖
―Thank you so much.‖ Charlie bowed. ―Have given much rest to
troubled mind. Am now free to edit lecture notes instead of imposing upon
local real estate agents.‖
Sally put a hand on Charlie‘s arm.
―If you‘re free later, Mr. Chan, I‘d be happy to take you out to the
property and show you around.‖
Charlie bowed again, breaking into a wide-mouthed grin.
―Will welcome company of most charming and beautiful daughter of
honorable President Winton.‖
―Sally,‖ asked her father, ―let‘s say we treat Mr. Chan and his
entourage to a nice lunch at the Brown Derby. Who knows, we might even
run into Clark Gable!‖
14
―Oh, Dad, you‘re incorrigible!‖
Charlie turned to Lee as he pulled out his wallet to retrieve a twenty
dollar bill.
―Suggest that you and # 2 son take young lady to enjoy beautiful day
outside. Will meet you here later, following lunch before we occupy
graciously offered home.
―But, Pop--!‖
―Okay, Pop!‖ Jimmy reached out and took the $20. ―THANK YOU
SO MUCH!‖
Charlie pretended to glare at his sons as they left with Irene.
.............................................................
Jimmy had scrounged up a blanket that they had spread on a nearby
beach while Lee bought soft drinks and peanuts. They sat down with Irene
between them.
Lee watches his brother popping peanuts into his mouth for a moment.
―Jimmy, after all of the excitement this morning with that car that
almost hit Pop and us, I nearly forgot! A telegram was to come in care of
you for Pop today, did you get it?‖
―Yeah. I received it at the dorm early this morning. It‘s probably
nothing, just the usual ‗Welcome to our fair city‘ stuff, I‘ll bet.‖
He removed the now crumpled telegram from a coat pocket and
showed it to Lee.
―Why, I‘ll bet Pop probably knew about it before he left for
California.
―I don‘t know—‖ Lee began.
15
―Ah. . . . .you know how Pop and his kind are, always calling or
sending telegrams. Gee, I jut want to know where we‘re staying while Pop
is in town. Anything would beat the dorm and my roommate.‖
―Who is Ben Covert,‖ Sam asked as she came up behind them.
―A friend of Pop‘s,‖ Jimmy said. ―He works for the British
Government.‖
―Oh!‖
Lee looks over to his brother and notices a sudden seriousness to his
face.
―What‘s up, Jimmy?‖
―My roommate. I‘m glad I don‘t have to be the one to go get my stuff
out of our dorm room.‖
―Who‘s your roommate, Jimmy?‖ Sam picked up a peanut to shell.
―Norman Cavendish, the Third! All he ever does is listen to Mozart.
It‘s enough to drive you nuts.‖
―I have a musical appreciation class with Norman,‖ Sam said. ―He‘s
strange, all right. You know, when that crazy driver nearly hit your pop this
morning, my first thought was that he kind of reminded me of Norman.
Funny, isn‘t it?‖
―Yeah, funny like a bad dream.‖ Jimmy shuddered. ―Now that you
mention it, the description that Irene gave kind of fit Norman, but he rarely
steps out of the dorm. Except to go to class. And that music!‖
Irene, Sam and Lee laughed.
Jimmy scowled at them.
―Mozart‘s music is okay if you like pre-historic stuff written by guys
who wore powdered wigs and painted their faces. I might be able to stand
Norman if he listened to something a little more hep. Why, this is 1938!‖
―I hate to leave you in your rantings,‖ Lee said, getting up, ―but I need
to get over to the Beverly Hilton. The art exposition want to talk to me
about a private sowing next fall in New York.‖
―I‘d like to come along if you don‘t mind.‖ Irene held up her hands
for Lee to help her up. ―I might be able to pick up some news.‖
―Look, don‘t let this get out, especially to Pop just yet,‖ Lee said. ―I
don‘t want him to get all excited and then have things fall through for me at
the last minute. I don‘t want to disappoint him.‖
―You can count on us, Lee,‖ Jimmy grinned, ―but what do you want
me to tell Pop when I see him?‖
―You‘ll think of something. But I probably won‘t be gone that long.‖
He waved as he and Irene left.
16
Jimmy glanced at Sam who was wistfully staring after Lee. He
crumpled up all their trash in frustration and through it out.
―Sam?‖
―Hmm?‖
―Sam?‖
―Hmm? Oh, I‘m sorry, Jimmy. What were you saying?‖
―I was just wondering if you could keep a secret for me too?‖
She nodded, her eyes widened with interest.
Jimmy shifted closer, lowering his voice.
―I‘m working on something secret that is sure to have ramifications
with our military. I even have a contact down in San Diego, Brandon
Mitchell. But that‘s beside the point. What I need right now is an assistant.‖
―Brandon Mitchell,‖ Sam asked in some surprise. ―Didn‘t he date
used to date Sally Winton?‖
―Who knows,‖ Jimmy waved the question away. ―He‘s originally
from Texas but has been around here on campus for awhile. He got into the
Navy just a few months ago.‖
Sam stretches out her hand to shake Jimmy‘s.
―Mr. Chan,‖ she said in an exaggerated tone, ―meet your new
assistant. Now—what are we working on?‖
Jimmy tingled all over. He hoped to impress her even more.
―I can‘t say anything just yet, but it‘s a special fuel additive for naval
warships. See, I think that naval power is the wave of the future. Just like
Thermos--, Theme—Theom—―
―Themistocles?‖
―Yeah, him! Anyway, he said, ‗He who has command of the sea has
command of everything.‘ ‖
―That‘s swell, Jimmy,‖ Sam looked a little confused, ―but, how did
you come up with such an idea?‖
―Oh, I‘ve been working on it after hours in the chemistry lab of my
criminology class. At first I added some of the stuff, I mean the formula to
the gas in a car I borrowed from a friend. It gave the car extra pep and drove
like a red hot Indianapolis car?‖
Jimmy shyly grinned.
―Then . . . I know this sounds crazy . . . I had the idea to try it out in
the fuel that‘s used in battle ships. We just have to convince the Navy to test
it!‖
―Gosh, Jimmy, you sure are swell,‖ Sam started blushing deep red, ―I
. . . I mean . . . your idea, of course!‖
17
............................................................
Tom Mallory got the bourbon off the sideboard and poured two
drinks. He took them back into the living room and handed one to Harry
Walden, sitting on the divan.
They were discussing Charlie Chan‘s arrival at the Pinehurst address.
―So Chan moves in and meets Roberto Jaramillo, head gardener.‖
Walden wiped his forehead, as if it would remove some of the grease that
always seemed to cover his pock marks. ―A little bit of skin makeup, a fake
moustache, and I‘ll be able to spy on that Chinese dick plenty.‖
He plays with the disguise and Mallory agree that his transformation
would be perfect.
―I talked Sally into giving old man Jaramillo a vacation to Mexico for
two weeks.‖ Mallory held up a hand when the third man began to interrupt
him. ―I‘ll just tell her he came back early if she sees him. She‘ll never
know the difference.‖
―Fine, but I‘m still worried,‖ said the other man. ―We have Covert
coming in tomorrow to meet with Chan. Between the two, they may get
whiff of what we‘re doing with that foreign oil experiment.‖
Mallory drank a slug of bourbon in impatience.
―You‘re talking about that crazy kid, Jimmy Chan, and his naval gas
gimmick. He‘s been shooting his mouth off about it around that college, but
that‘s all it is. . . . TALK. Nothing will ever come of it. We need to
concentrate on that re-fueling depot off San Diego Harbor.‖
Walden is becoming just as annoyed.
―Mallory, don‘t go getting funny on me. That young idiot, Jimmy
Chan, might actually be onto something this time. In fact, I believe our
contact in Europe would be interested in buying his stuff. Look, two Ben
Franklins oughta be floating in your eyes about now. If we can get our hot
little fists on the kid‘s goods . . . well, like they say, the world is our oyster.‖
―You‘re not telling me anything that I‘m not already aware of,‖
Mallroy said, sitting in a club chair. ―All that‘s standing in the way of our
operation is Charlie Chan and Ben Covert.‖
―Yeah, I hear ya,‖ Walden said, impatiently, ―like a sour note I hear
ya. But I got plans, see. Big plans. Chan and his buddy ain‘t gonna be in
the way for long.‖
Hacking coughing grabbed Mallory‘s attention.
―Sorry.‖ He grinned weakly. ―Must be these cheap, lousy coffin nails
I‘ve been smoking lately.‖
18
He pulled a cigar case out of his inner coat pocket and offered one to
Walden.
―Here, have a fine cigar instead of that cigarette.‖
―That of those Cuban specials of yours on?‖
―Of course, Walden, of course!‖ He passed his cigar cutter to the
other men—a small device that looked like a miniature guillotine which they
used to slice off one end of each cigar.
Walden grinned, handing it back.
―Handy little gadgets for hangnails, ain‘t they?!‖
...........................................................
Sally Winton had her arm linked into Charlie Chan‘s, leading him into
the Brown Derby.
She left her father trailing behind them.
The Maitre D‘, Frederick, approached them and recognized the
Wintons.
―President Winton, Miss Winton! What a pleasure to greet you! How
many in your party this afternoon?
―Three,‖ Winton told him. ―We have a guest honoring us. None
other than the famous Charlie Chan who will grace our institution as guest
lecturer for awhile.‖
Frederick smiled and bowed to Chan.
―We‘ll do our best for you, Inspector Chan.‖
―Most humbly accept greetings so fondly expressed,‖ Charlie smiled,
returning the bow. Simple detective feel like outcast weed in luxury of
beautiful garden.‖
―Won‘t you come this way . . . ?‖
19
He led them to a choice banquette on the wall and settled them in with
menus.
He vanished to give them time to go through the bill of fare.
―Most excellent variety of dishes.‖
―The Derby is renowned for its variety and quality of food,‖ said
Sally.
Winton caught Charlie looking at the menu and made a strategic
guess.
―Don‘t let the prices put you off your appetite, Charlie!‖
―Yet frugality is mother of prosperity!‖
―No doubt true but we have an institutional custom we call the
expense account which will cover the cost nicely.‖
―Am familiar with custom of expense account,‖ Charlie smiled, ―still
. . . must be very fine beefsteak to cost $2.50!
―Well,‖ Sally laughed, ―I did say quality food, not cheap!‖
―Fond greeting of head-waiter indicate frequent use of wonderful
mainland invention.‖
―Part of my job description,‖ Winton grinned, ―I‘m afraid, Charlie.‖
―Understand. Will drink from spring and be grateful for its source.‖
Charlie closed his menu and looked out over the room.
―As you can see, Charlie, the Derby never lacks for celebrities.‖
―It‘s the place to see and,‖ Winton lightly tweaked his daughter‘s ear,
―be seen in the film colony.‖
―Had thought I recognized faces familiar through enjoyment of silver
screen.‖
―But,‖ Sally sighed, ―no Clark Gable today, I‘m afraid.‖
―Don‘t let the disappointment spoil your afternoon, my dear,‖ he
patted her hand. ―You see, Charlie, Sally is quite taken by a select few film
idols.‖
―Oh, Dad!‖
20
―Number one daughter, Ling, had similar infatuations with several
gentlemen of silver screen before meeting honorable husband.‖
Sally turned to her father.
―See!‖ She hid her face behind her menu and stuck out her tongue at
him.
A man approaching their table caught their attention.
―Why, I say,‖ Winton said in surprise as he stood up. ―Warner!
Hello! Could I impose on you for a moment?‖
The man looked like almost the mirror image of Charlie Chan, with
the exception of his hair being somewhat longer.
―Certainly, Coleman! Forgive my hair. . . . It‘s for the new picture
I‘m starting next week. And Sally! What a pleasure to see you again!‖
―Flatterer,‖ she cried.
―Well, I must uphold the screen actors‘ code,‖ the stranger said,
grinning broadly.
―Warner, let me introduce you to our guest,‖ Winton began and then
did a double take between the two men. ―This is Inspector Charlie Chan.‖
Charlie stood up and held out his had.
―So pleased to meet illustrious actor of silver screen.‖
―Charlie, this is Warner Oland.‖
Oland shook the inspector‘s hand as they stared at each other.
―Mr. Chan, who hasn‘t read and been thrilled by your exploits?‖
He gestured for the others to sit as the Maitre d‘ brought him a chair.
The pause broke the tension in their surprise at the two men coming face to
face.
―Have you had lunch yet, Warner,‖ Winton asked.
―No, I was waiting for—―
Frederick, the Maitre d‘, interrupted Oland.
―Excuse me but this policeman . . . that is, Captain Dormers . . . said
he needed to speak with Mr. Chan.‖
The policeman brushed the headwaiter aside.
―Okay! Okay! I can handle my own introductions.‖
Frederick looked at him, harrumphed and turned to leave in a huff.
Dormers turned to Oland.
―My name is Tom Dormers, Captain in the LAPD. I‘ve seen your
face in the papers when they printed your stories. You must be Charlie
Chan! I‘ve got some important information to . . . . .‖
―Just a moment,‖ Oland said, standing. ―I believe you have the wrong
suspect. My name is Warner Oland. I‘m only a screen actor.‖
He looked at his double who was rising to his feet.
21
―May I introduce the man you are looking for? This is Inspector
Charlie Chan.‖
Charlie leaned forward with his hand out.
―So pleased to meet brother officer.‖
They shook hands.
―Well,‖ Oland began but stopped, noticing his appointment had
arrived. ―I must take my leave. It was a pleasure, Mr. Chan! I hope I can
visit you at the police station in Honolulu—A friendly visit!‖
―Honor completely mine,‖ Charlie said. ―Multitudinous family in
Honolulu will certainly pester humble parent over our meeting. Suspect that
we may share distant kinship.‖
―One never knows,‖ Oland winked at Chan, ―one never knows!‖
The actor waved a farewell and walked off.
The policeman shrugged and turned back to Charlie.
―Sorry to break in like this, Inspector Chan, but I traced you through
President Winton‘s secretary.‖ Dormers stopped. ―I have some tough news
for you.‖
Chan waded up his napkin in one hand and put it on the table.
―What is nature of news, please?‖
―A man was just knocked down by a hit-and-run driver over near the
college campus. He was pretty banged up and is still unconscious. Anyway,
his papers included an English passport in the name of Covert.‖
―BEN Covert?‖
―Ben—that‘s right.‖ Captain Dormers took out a telegram. ―He had
other papers on him, including a recently dated letter signed by—‖
―Charlie Chan!‖
Dormers looked at Charlie, at the paper and then back at Chan in
surprise.
―Yeah! That‘s right! But how did you know?‖ He handed the letter
to Charlie.
―Most assuredly my letter to unfortunate fiend, Ben Covet.‖
―Would you come with me to the hospital for a more positive
identification?‖
―When friend is in distress must answer call.‖ Charlie turned to Sally
and Coleman Winton. ―Must apologize for sudden departure. Thank you
for splendid meal in most wonderful restaurant.‖
―No apology needed,‖ Sally said.
―Absolutely,‖ her father added. ―I only hope that your friend is not
badly injured and will recover soon.‖
22
...........................................................
Jimmy sat at the Toy Store fountain counter, talking quietly with San
Toy.
―So I figure that with a little more work that my fuel energy enhancer
will be a pretty valuable item.‖
―Gosh, Jimmy,‖ she said, making eyes at him, ―that sounds
wonderful!‖
Their focus on each other was suddenly broken by Ling Toy opening
the old-fashioned register‘s drawer to count out the money inside.
―Aha, then maybe you can pay for all the malts bought on the credit of
honorable Chan name.‖
Jimmy, embarrassed and flustered, said, ―Gee!‖
―Oh, Father, I trust Jimmy!‖
―Humph!‖ Ling Toy continued counting the bills.
The front opened and Irene Chow rushed in and looked around. She
saw Jimmy and ran over to him.
―Jimmy! San Toy! It‘s happened again, but this time worse!‖
Jimmy, San Toy and her father stood still as statues for several
seconds. Jimmy was the first to move back to life, taking her arm and
guiding her back to the door.
―What happened, Irene! Where did it happen?‖
―Another hit and run accident.‖
He halted and dropped her arm, searching her face.
―P-Pop?‖
―No, no, not your father. Someone else. An Englishman named
Covert.‖
Jimmy relaxes somewhat as he barely notices Ling Toy closing the
drawer and coming over with his daughter.
―Covert? Say, that name sounds familiar.‖ He suddenly remembers
and fishes through his pockets. ―Oh my gosh!‖
He held a crumpled up piece of paper out and waved it as a stricken
look takes over his face.
―This was sent by this Covert for Pop this morning and I forgot to
give it to him.‖ He turned to Irene. ―Was this Covert killed?‖
―No, not dead,‖ she said, ―but he‘s in bad shape and still
unconscious.‖
―Do you know where they took him?‖
―Why, University Hospital.‖
Ling Toy gently pushed Jimmy toward the front door.
23
―Son‘s place is at father‘s side at time of distress.‖
San Toy went to hold the door open as Jimmy rushed forward.
―Jimmy, we‘ll let your father and Lee know what happened if they
should call or come by.‖
―Thanks!‖
Irene suddenly hurries after him, saying, ―Wait for me, Jimmy!‖
............................................................
A police car pulled up to the main entrance of University Hospital.
Captain Dormers climbed out after Charlie Chan. He stopped only long
enough to speak to the driver before following Charlie.
―Okay, Helman. You stick here and keep your eyes open. I don‘t
think we‘ll be long.‖
―Right you are, Captain.‖
―Police have ascertained description of car that hit unfortunate
friend?‖ Charlie and Dormers continued up the stairs to the door.
―Yes,‖ Dormers said, ―we got a partial from the one that we had
received, and—get this, Charlie—it was a black sedan, different from the
one that we had received a report of almost running you down this morning.
With all this, I had almost forgotten about your close call! The boys are
running a check on the license number right now.‖
Charlie looked at the Captain, nodded and smiled. They continued to
the Admittance Clerk‘s office to find out what room Covert was in. They
thanked the girl and started out the office toward the stairs and passed a
young man sitting outside the Admittance Office.
He carefully peered from around the paper he covered his face to
make sure that Chan and Dormers had actually gone up in the elevator. He
hurried over to a phone booth and dropped a nickel to reach his number
―Hello, is that you, Harry? I got over to University Hospital about
our friend. . . . No, I haven‘t been able to get to his room. But, say, I‘ll tell
you who I just saw—None other than Charlie Chan and that Dormers Dick .
. . . Yes, I‘ll keep an eye on him and to find out what‘s up with Covert. . . .
Okay, Harry. . . . Yes. . . . I understand. So long!‖
He hung up and went through the phone booth door. He hardly turns
around when a careening Jimmy hits him. Irene neatly avoided their
twisting huddle by simply jumping over them and out of danger.
She slowed down and stopped to catch her breath before turning
around to see Jimmy extricated himself.
Jimmy straightened himself as he looked over to find out whom he
had run over.
24
―Norman,‖ he gasped, ―it‘s you!‖
―Fancy running into you like this,‖ the other man said. ―Or did you
run into me?‖
―Jimmy,‖ Irene asked.
―Oh, Irene, meet Norman Cavendish the third.‖
Norman gave the girl a looking over with a smirk on his face,
―Slumming with our friend here, Miss?‖
―Not as long as I can keep her away from you, Norman,‖ Jimmy said.
―Besides, does the reform school know you‘re out on good behavior?‖
―I was planning to attend the noon string concert up in the Solarium.‖
He became suspicious. ―Are you two going to attend?‖
―No, I prefer a swing quartet and, besides, I – I mean that we have to
see someone—‖
―Oh, really . . . and who might that be?‖
―Go ahead and tell him, Jimmy,‖ said Irene.
―Yes . . . . do tell me,‖ said Norman, sarcastically.
―Well . . . ,‖ he stopped as they heard hurrying feet coming around the
corner. They saw Samantha Wu hurrying down the hall with her student
nurse‘s uniform on.
―I was planning to met Sam—and here she is,‖ said Jimmy as he
hurried over to Sam with Irene close behind him, catching his train of
thought.
―Hi, Sam,‖ he said as they twirled Sam around and hurried her off.
―Hope I didn‘t keep you waiting too long.‖
Jimmy glanced back over his shoulder.
―So long, Norman. Enjoy your concert!‖
They hustled Sam into the nearest empty room before they gave her a
chance to talk.
―What‘s this all about, Jimmy? We didn‘t have any appointment!
Besides, I‘m on duty and if the head nurse finds us I‘ll be in hot water.‖
―Does she know everything,‖ Irene asked, ―because she can be a big
help to us!
―I certainly think an explanation is in order!‖ Sam planted herself
firmly in front of Jimmy.
―Okay, and then may be you can help me. You see, there‘s someone
who was brought to the hospital today. . . .‖
.......................................... .................
Charlie and Dormers stood at a hospital nursing station and the
policeman is pulling out his badge.
25
―Nurse, I‘m Captain Dormers of the Los Angeles Police. I‘ve come to
see Mr. Covert and have brought Mr. Chan here of the Honolulu Police,‖ he
waves toward Charlie, ―who is a friend of Covert‘s and who can provide
positive identification. Is Covert still unconscious?‖
The nurse checked a chart.
―I‘m afraid so . . . and he shows no sign of coming to. Positive
identification would be helpful. Come this way, gentlemen.‖
She came out from behind her desk and walked a short distance to a
room with a ―Do Not Disturb‖ sign. She knocked once and went it.
Dormers and Chan followed her in to stand facing each other over the
bed.
―Well, Charlie? What about it?‖
―Unfortunately, must confirm identity of good friend Ben Covert.‖
Charlie glanced at Dormers. ―Did old friend carry papers with him?‖
―Only his passport and a billfold containing about a hundred dollars or
so.‖ Charlie gestured so they could talk away from the nurse fussing over
the bed linen. ―Have reason to suspect my old friend was here on
international investigation for British Government.‖
The door suddenly opening caught their attention as Jimmy‘s head
appeared and he glanced around to find his father.
―Pop! Am I glad to see you.‖
―Just a moment,‖ the nurse hurried over to shoo him out of the room.
―I didn‘t call for an orderly. How long have you been working at this
hospital?‖
―Excuse, please,‖ Charlie stepped forward. ―May introduce number
two chip off old family block: Number 2 son, Jimmy.‖
He turned to his son.
―Can explain sudden change of occupation?‖
―It was the only way I cold get to see Mr. Covert. You see, I heard
about the accident and I knew Mr. Covert wanted to see you.‖
―One moment, please. How you come to know unfortunate Mr.
Covert wanted to see me?‖
Jimmy gulped and started digging through his pockets and pulled it
out.
―It was in this telegram,‖ he said.
26
―Most unfortunate,‖ said Chan, reading the telegram, ―like rain after
forest burn down. Come too late.‖
―That‘s just it, Pop,‖ Jimmy said, shame-faced. It didn‘t come too
late. The message arrived this morning and I . . . I forgot to give it to you.‖
Chan looked grimfaced at his son.
―Most unfortunate. Prior knowledge may have prevented unfortunate
accident.‖ Charlie shifted his gaze to look past his son. ―If it was accident.‖
He put his arm around Jimmy.
―Admission of same shows strong character. Cannot change past but
can shape future. Must now find out who did this and why.‖
―You don‘t think it was an accident, Pop?‘
―So close after our ‗little accident?‘ Think not.‖
Their attention went to feet hurrying down the hall to their door and
two young women entered, flustered. Sam was dabbing a cloth at the back
of Irene‘s head with one hand while helping to steady the girl with her other
hand.
―Jimmy,‖ Irene winced, ―Norman has disappeared! I lost him after
somebody hit me on the back of the head.‖
―When I went back to find Irene after talking to you,‖ Sam said,
guiding Irene to a chair, ―I found her on the floor.‖
―Norman was acting like a big shot, trying to impress me. Of course,
I wasn‘t buying any of it. Just as I was about to turn and leave, I was hit by
someone who must have come from around the corner in the hall.‖
Sam turned to the Chan‘s.
―We stopped at the nurses‘ desk on our way here and asked if anyone
had heard of the music performance in the hospital‘s Solarium that Norman
had mentioned to us. Nothing! It was a lie,‖ Sam looked at Charlie. ―He‘s
up to something, Mr. Chan!‖
―That could be so,‖ Charlie said. ―Behavior of suspicious student
certainly suggests hidden motive for visit to hospital.‖
―Gosh, Pop! Should we go look for him?!‖
27
―All birds eventually return to nests, unless traveling south for sunnier
climes – or caged. Suspect that case of young of young Mr. Norman may be
likewise. Either he will be seen soon, or he has departed for more distant
location, or . . . . Time will tell.
―But, Pop, he slugged Irene!‖
Sam and Irene rolled their eyes as they shared grins with Captain
Dormers.
―Correction, please. Irene slugged on back of head by unknown party
while looking at Norman.‖ Charlie turned to Irene. ―You notice anything
unusual about the demeanor of the young man just before unfortunate
attack?‖
―Now that you ask, Mr. Chan,‖ Irene said, still gingerly touching the
back of her head, ―I can remember that the expression on his face didn‘t look
any different than usual. But I‘m not really sure, sure.‖
Charlie looked from her to the nurse.
―Perhaps will assist young lady in distress?‖
―Certainly, sir.‖
―I‘m going with you,‖ Sam said. ―See you later, Mr. Chan, Jimmy.‖
Dormers pushed back his hat and rubbed his forehead.
―I don‘t like any of this business at all, Charlie. Something really
fishy is going on here. Been in the air for weeks. Today, you‘re almost run
down and Covert, well, he is run down. Now this kid, Norman . . . .‖
―Cavendish,‖ Jimmy muttered without realizing it, ―the third . . . my
roommate.‖
―Cavendish is your roommate,‖ Dormers asked. ―Hey, just what do
you know about this bird?‖
Jimmy quickly realizes he has put himself in a suspicious light and
looked at his father and then back at the policemen.
―Nothing, sir. I‘ve never liked him. He‘s something of a loner. I
don‘t bother him, he doesn‘t bother me. But, now that all this has happened,
I – I don‘t really know what to think.‖
―Can assure you that number two son is quite innocent of any
wrongdoing,‖ said Charlie to Dormers. He grinned at his son. ―Still wet
behind ears!‖
―Gee, Pop! I‘m almost finished with my freshman year!‖
―That‘s okay, kid,‖ Dormers said, ―but I suggest you stick around
your dad while he‘s in town.‖
―You‘re a bet,‖ said Jimmy, grinning at his Pop.
They turn to the door and start down the hall when a different nurse
comes frantically to them.
28
―Officer! Please! Something terrible has just happened! Please,
come and help!!‖
Dormers grabbed her by the arm and swung her around to get the
story straight.
―Okay . . . . calm down, Miss . . . . Where‘s the problem?‖
―Near the service elevator . . . on this floor! I think she‘s DEAD!!
We‘ve called the police, but I heard that you were here. Please hurry!‖
Dormers let her go, numb. He looked at Charlie as they took off after
the nurse. They slowed down as the body of a nurse sprawled on the floor
appeared. Dormer and Chan kneeled down to examine her as Jimmy leaned
over his father‘s shoulder.
―Dead, all right,‖ said Dormers.
―Sadly so. Marks on neck indicate strangulation,‖ said Charlie.
Jimmy straightened up.
―Norman!‖
Charlie looked up at his son.
―Although your missing roommate may be responsible for much evil,
in this tragic instance, suspect he is innocent in this instance.‖
―How do you know that, Pop? I think it‘s pretty obvious! Norman
goes missing and minutes later, this nurse is murdered . . . .‖
―I think the kid‘s got something, Charlie.‖
―So sorry but only thing number two son has is hasty conclusion.
Please note.‖ Charlie points to mark on the victim‘s neck. ―Take angle of
mark on neck into consideration and the height of unfortunate victim when
standing, murderer must have been at least six feet tall.‖
He looked at his son.
―And, if memory of aged parent still reasonably sharp, recall
description of young Norman is of much slighter stature.‖
―That‘s just right, Pop!‖
Charlie indicated some marks on the floor by the body.
―Black heel marks left behind by killer also indicate substantial stature
of same. Killer‘s accidental message on floor also tell us that vicious
attacker fell upon innocent young nurse from elevator.‖ He looked at
Dormers.
―Suggest we look for man six feet all wearing new shoes, probably
very shiny with much black polish.‖
The captain pushed his hat on his head, perplexed.
―I gotta say, Charlie, this has me stumped. Why would someone want
to kill this nurse?‖ He looked down at the floor. ―Boy, for a hospital, this
place sure has dirty floors.‖
29
Charlie glanced down and then crouched, studying the floor. He
slowly stood up and faced Dormers.
―Ah! Thank you so much!‖
―For what? Should I call the custodian?
―No, but suggest that we add that our murderer has recently been to a
beach.‖
They suddenly hear a rumble as a disheveled cop came into view,
tucking his shirt into his pants in an attempt to look official.
―Okay, where‘s the body? I got a call that . . . . ‖ He glanced around
and saw the body. ―Oh, I see . . . ! Well, let‘s get to work!‖
―Too late, Flynn,‖ Dormers eyed the policeman with exasperation.
―Chan here has things pretty well in hand.‖
Flynn cocked his police hat to one side and put his hands on her hips.
―Who? What? Him?‖ Flynn‘s mouth gaped open. ―I thought he was
the laundry man!‖
―You . . . from . . . Chinatown . . . maybe?‖
―Why--,‖ Jimmy‘s temper flared but held back as he saw his father
hold out his right hand for Flynn to shake.
―So pleased to make acquaintance of distinguished brother officer.
Inspector Chan of Honolulu Police. In short time in your fine city, have
heard much already of your sterling abilities.
―Who are you kidding, Charlie,‖ asked Dormers, laughing. ―This is
Sgt. Flynn, the officer who works this beat. The college kids have taken to
calling him ‗Flat-Foot.‘‖
―Not to my face, they ain‘t!‖
―Okay, okay,‖ Dormers said. ―Like I told you, Flynn, Chan and I
have this under control. I‘ll you in later at headquarters.‖
Flynn turned his back on the corpse to confront Dormers.
―Well, if this don‘t beat all! Ten years on this beat and all I do is issue
parking tickets! Suddenly, we have talk of a gang operating here, a driver
runs his car into a guy on purpose, almost killin‘ him, and now a murder,
and I‘m completely out of the picture and upstaged by Mr. Wang over
there!‖
―It‘s CHAN,‖ Dormers said, ―Charlie Chan! Don‘t you ever read the
papers?‖
―I don‘t care if his name is Fu Manchu! I‘ve had enough!‖
―Flat-foot‖ Flynn turned suddenly to storm off only to trip himself
over the corpse. Everyone gasps and then tries to suppress laughter as Flynn
struggles to pick himself up and march off with what dignity he can patch
together, slamming his hat back on his head.
30
Their laughter trails off as Jimmy looks at Charlie.
―Gee! I almost forgot about Irene—―
―Captain Dormers,‖ cried a nurse. ―Mr. Chan! Mr. Covert has taken
a sudden turn for the worse!‖
―WHAT?‖
―Must hurry back to see old friend.‖
They hurried back to Covert‘s room where a doctor was looking at the
patient‘s chart. Charlie leaned toward him.
―Please, what is condition of patient?‖
―I‘m very sorry, Mr. Chan, but he died just moments ago. This is very
strange. Although in a coma, we had hopes for a possible recovery.
Suddenly, he . . . .‖
―Sorry to interrupt, Doctor,‖ Chan said, ―but has patient received
recent injection?‖
The doctor looked at the chart.
―Why. . . no . . . Why do you ask?‖
―Arm of Mr. Covert,‖ Charlie pointed to a spot on Covert‘s right arm,
show recent contradiction.‖
The doctor looked closer, surprised, and looked up at Chan.
―Now, like lifting of fog, suddenly see mountain of truth in front of
shamed face. Am certain examination will show unexpected presence of
deadly drug. Was so stupid not to have realized that murder of unfortunate
young nurse was simply diversion.‖
―A diversion,‖ Dormers asked in diversion.
―Yes,‖ Charlie said, shaking his head.. ―All factors point this poor
excuse for a detective to that conclusion. Will always blame self for demise
of old friend. Killer obviously wanted no one in this room, so created
heartless distraction at other end of same floor by killing nurse. At that time,
should have seen through scheme but sadly did not.‖
―It‘s not your fault, Pop! You could do only so much!‖
―The kid‘s right, Charlie,‖ Dormers. ―None of us saw this coming.‖
The doctor coughed.
―We will have to do an autopsy.‖
As the Chans and Dormers looked down at Covert, the police captain
pulled out a card and handed it to the physician.
―This is where you can reach me as soon as you finish.‖
―Certainly.‖
Chan suddenly looks up, confused. He moves his head around like a
radarscope trying to hear as he focuses on the doctor and nurse leaving. He
crouches down to pick up something impossibly small for the others to see.
31
―Ah! Fears confirmed. Please note fine grains of sand, like those
near other victim, also present here at beside.‖ He rises and looks once
again at the mark on Covert‘s arm. ―Also, mark of injection shows that
procedure was performed in great hast, and direction of exit and ensuing
scratch on arm indicate use of left hand on hypodermic.‖
Charlie returned to the body and leaned over the arm again.
―Please also to notice—no trace of alcohol.‖
―I‘ll have the boys over to check the room, Charlie,‖ said Dormers.
A burst through the door caught their attention.
Flynn is standing, looking belligerently at them.
―What‘s this I hear about another murder?‖
―That‘s right,‖ said Dormers. ―Another one.‖
―Well, just how d‘ya know this one is murder?‖
―Mr. Chan here has determined that and I agree with him.‖
―What, HIM again?‖ Flynn kicks the trash can by the door out of
frustration.
Among the litter that sprawled out was a syringe partially hidden by
garbage. Charlie pulls out his handkerchief to pick it up carefully and hand
to Captain Dormers.
―Thank you so much, Officer Flynn, for fine piece of police work.‖
Flynn looked confused, unable to figure out whether to puff up his
chest or try to figure out what Chan meant.
―In his hast to leave room after heinous act against old friend, killer
dropped instrument of death into wastebasket. See, still retains some deadly
fluid. Possibly feared quick discovery so did not want to become victim of
own weapon by attempting to hurriedly replace into own pocket.‖
―I‘ll have this stuff analyzed, Charlie.‖
―Hey, Pop!‖
Jimmy dropped to one knee and picked up a button from just under
the bed.
Charlie took the button from his son‘s hand and examined it closely.
―Ah, youthful eagle‘s eye of number two son has furnished more
information on killer. Thinness of button indicate same was divorced from
sleeve of inexpensive suit.‖ He took a small magnifying glass from his
pocket.
―Small scratches show much wear.‖ He looked at Dormers and then
Flynn. ―Suggest we search for left-handed man, about six feet, wearing
cheap dark suit, probably gray, also wearing new, very shiny black shoes,
who has reason to visit nearby beach.‖
32
―Okay, Charlie,‖ said Dormers, turning to leave the room, ―I‘ll have
the boys get right on it.‖
―Hey!‖ Flynn looked at Dormers‘ retreating back, at Chan and then
back at Dormers. ―Where do you think you‘re goin‘? You ain‘t leavin‘ me
out of this one!‖
Charlie and Jimmy grinned at each other briefly before Chan spoke
again.
―You know of beach nearby?
―Why, Pop, there are lots of beaches around here. But I think the
closest is Venice Beach. Now that I think of it, Pop, Norman has mentioned
going there before!‖
―Venice Beach . . . ,‖ Charlie said softly.
―An idea, Pop?‖
―Please continue on interrupted errand to visit injured friend, Irene.‖
He looked at his wristwatch. ―Will meet you and brother, Lee, at appointed
time at Mr. Winton‘s. At moment wish time alone to say final good-bye to
departed friend.‖
............................................................
Charlie, Lee, and Jimmy sat in the back seat of the Winton‘s car that
President Winton, himself, was driving with his daughter next to him. He
spoke over his shoulder to Chan, shaking his head.
―Horrible business, this, Charlie. I am so very sorry to hear of your
friend‘s death.‖
―Appreciate very much your concern. Death one visitor all shun yet
with whom all must one day walk.‖
―That may be so, but this sort of thing just doesn‘t happen here,
Charlie. We have a quiet community of intellectuals here.‖
―Am certain that better fortune will smile once again on same.‖
―I truly hope so, Charlie.‖
Sally turned in her seat, hoping to lighten the mood.
―Well, Charlie, I think that you, Lee, and Jimmy will just love our
house on Pinehurst Road! It‘s such a quiet spot, and it‘s right off
Hollywood Boulevard, too, in case you would like to see a movie at the
‗Chinese,‘ the ‗Egyptian,‘ or the ‗El Capitan!‘‖
Lee leaned across Charlie to grin at Jimmy.
―Hey! That‘d be swell! It‘s been ages since I‘ve seen a movie!
―Me, too! I‘ve been in the books so much lately that I‘ve skipped the
finer things in live!‖
33
―Sons have earned respite from harsh realities of life. Sounds like
good idea to beleaguered father. You two have good time tonight but please
do not stay out late. Remember father‘s lecture tomorrow morning for
which must still prepare tonight.‖
Jimmy held out his hand as he winked at his big brother.
―How about some more dough, Pop?‖
―Ah,‖ Charlie said, reaching for his pocket book and opening it before
remembering. ―Very long day but not long enough for parent to recall
earlier stipend of twenty dollars.‖
―Gee, Pop,‖ said Lee, ―we spent most of it already! Los Angeles is an
expensive town.
―Aie . . . ,‖ Charlie said to Lee, pulling out a bill from his wallet, ―here
is five dollars for your movie tonight and ample snacks at same.‖
Jimmy grinned and quickly took the bill out of Charlie‘s hand.
―Thank you so much!‖
............................................................
The Wintons and Charlie Chan crossed from the car to the front door
at 2039 Pinehurst Road. Sally turned to Charlie.
―I think you‘ll love it here.‖
―Am quite certain of that. Feel at home already like in humble home
in Honolulu.‖
―I have many fond memories of this house, Charlie,‖ Winton said,
unlocking the front door and handing the keys to Chan. ―If you need
anything, please ask our gardener, Roberto. . . . Roberto Jaramillo.‖
―He‘s also a very good cook,‖ said Sally, ―as well as being a devoted
worker. Why, he was supposed to visit his family in Mexico, but he came
back early! If you want to eat in, just ask him!‖
―Will happily do so, thank you so much.‖
―Well, Charlie, Sally and I will take off now and let you relax a bit.
We‘ll send a car for you in the morning.‖
―Appreciate very much. Thank you.‖
............................................................
Charlie sat by a desk lamp. He is studying pieces of evidence that he
kept from the scene of Ben Covert‘s murder, the handkerchief and the
button. He looked closely at the handkerchief, it is spotless and new, still
retaining crisp creases.
34
Charlie translates the Oriental figures on the handkerchief. He writes
the translation done on paper: ‗‖Regal Hotel Shanghai.‖
―May I prepare dinner, Senior?‖
Hearing the voice suddenly caused Charlie‘s head to jerk up and see a
man dressed in work clothes.
Charlie stands up and bows.
―You are Roberto . . . Hairomelleo?‖
―Si, Senior, Roberto Jaramillo.‖
Charlie walked over to shake his hand, bowing.
―Please to pardon awkward inexperience with Spanish language,
Senior Roberto.‖
―Is no problem, Senior. Would you like dinner served now?‖
Chan smiled.
―Would be wonderful answer to stomach‘s hungry call.‖
He followed the servant into the dining room where Roberto had a
chair pulled out for him. Charlie sat down and moved closer to the table.
Charlie picked up his napkin and shook it out. His eyes caught a
smudged place. He put the napkin in both hands to look closer at the small
discolored place. Charlie sniffed at it and then rubbed it with his forefinger.
He placed the napkin in his lap and brushed his fingertips together
only to find that the finger that had rubbed the lined had become darker and
stained his other fingers. Like a Hispanic person‘s complexion.
Roberto returned with a meat loaf and a divided dish holding mashed
potatoes and green peas that he put in front of Charlie. He returned with a
plate of rolls and a pitcher that he filled the water goblet from.
―Do you want anything more, Senior?‖
―Thank you, no.‖
―Very well, Senior. If there is anything else, please call for me.
―Thank you so much,‖ Charlie said following Roberto out of the room
with his eyes.
...........................................................
Lee and Jimmy sat among thirty students filling the seats in a
medium-sized college lecture the hall.
At the head of the room is a long table. At one end are Sally and her
father, President Winton. To his right was a podium and next to it Irene sat
with her stenographer‘s pad. She quickly looked at the empty chair on her
other side and shrugged.
Charlie Chan stood up at the podium and smiled at his audience as
they applauded him vigorously.
35
He turned to write two words on the blackboard:
Greed ~ ~ ~ Anger
He faced the students.
―Good morning. Two very simple words can define motives for
murder. Simple words, yet both very complex in definition. There is old
child-like saying about ‗Sticks and stones may break bones, but will never
bring harm.‘‖
Laughter rippled through the room.
―However, since oldest times, history of man too often written in
words of blood that spell out two simple words: Greed and Anger.
―Work in concert to provide mankind with ample opportunity to
perpetuate much harm. Have all doubtless heard grim reports in newspapers
of violence and death committed yesterday in area surrounding this very
college. From information contained in pages of newspapers, which would
these two motives do you think in these crimes?
Several hands went up. Charlie pointed to one young man.
―Yes, please?‖
―Sir, from what I understand, this could be a case of anger. Someone
must have hated the guy that was killed . . . held some sort of grudge.‖
―Possible,‖ said Charlie, ―but what of young nurse?‖
―Why, I don‘t really know . . . maybe he hated her too. Maybe it was
a love triangle. I‘ve seen that happen before in the movies!‖
Laughter went across the room again.
―Please! There are times when far-fetched theory of crime, even if
derived from Hollywood movie, is revealed in end to be correct.‖ Charlie
continued. ―However, in this case can humbly assure young man that his
theory is as wet as cat in typhoon.‖
36
The round of laughter this time was even louder. When it had died
away, Charlie continued.
―Anger resulting in crimes of passion very seldom give rise to
murders committed with planning or finesse. Cold calculation most often
most often indicates that killer sought more then simple revenge against his
victims. Complex situation of case at hand, and events leading to murders,
point to crime involving the deadly influence of greed. Killer want more
than lives of victims.‖
............................................................
―Before ending humble efforts to share knowledge of crime-detecting,
wish to thank honorable benefactors, President Coleman Winton, and his
daughter, Sally Winton.‖
Charlie bowed to his beaming friends and he turned back to his class.
―And to bright class of students in front of humble self, will see you
tomorrow!‖
Applause explodes as he moves to stand next to the podium to bow at
his audience.
―Thank you so much!‖
The clapping is mixed with hoots and cries of approval.
Irene closes her notepad as the Wintons, Lee and Jimmy hurry to
congratulate Charlie on his first day in class.
Winton grinned as he held his hand to shake.
―You‘ve more then proven my point about what a good teacher you‘d
be if you had the chance!‖
―House cat is still house cat next to lion of college jungle!‖
―We knew you were good, Pop,‖ Lee said.
Jimmy flung his hands in the air as he looked toward the Wintons.
―Where do you think we got our crime-busting brains from?‖
Everybody else laughed as Charlie shook his head at his number two
son. He turned to Winton.
―Humbly beg to forgive overactive imagination of number two son.‖
―You have a fine pair of boys, Charlie,‖ Coleman Winton replied.
―Several more where these two come from,‖ Charlie smiled. ―Perhaps
truth in coconuts of Honolulu palm fall close to proud tree.‖
Their attention is caught by a slight ruckus at the door where two men
had nearly collided as they had reached it. A young man, the age of the
students in the class, was almost ostentatiously waving through the tall,
distinguished-looking gentleman.
37
The men began smiling the closer they came to the group. The older
man gave his hand to Charlie.
―Mr. Chan, I‘m so sorry not to be here sooner. Department
difficulties that couldn‘t wait. I had to get them out of the way first.‖
―Charlie, this is Dean Leyland Sanders who is head of the law
department and Tom Mallory, my daughter‘s friend.‖ Winton glanced at
Sanders. ―Dean Sanders, I also want you to meet Charlie‘s sons, Lee and
Jimmy Chan, as well as Irene Chow, who will be Inspector Chan‘s
secretary.‖
Charlie was the only one who noticed that Sally and Irene‘s eyes
locked in confusion as the younger man took his time looking over Irene.
―I was worried when you didn‘t come by this morning and didn‘t
call.‖
Mallory‘s eyes didn‘t stop glancing over Charlie‘s secretary when he
spoke in apologetic tones to President Winton.
―Family emergency that couldn‘t be helped. But I‘m here now!‖
Mallory smiled smugly. ―What‘s on the agenda next?‖
―First,‖ Winton said, ―let‘s get our honorable guest out of here. Then
we‘ll go to my house for lunch.‖
Lee noticed Irene trying to edge away from the young man as he kept
edging toward her.
―Mr. Chan,‖ she said with some nervousness, ―I‘d better get these
notes typed up as soon as possible.‖
―Dad, can I pass on lunch?‖ Lee saw his father nod at him as Lee
pushed Mallory aside to take Irene‘s arm. ―I haven‘t seen your office yet.‖
―Number one son thinking good idea to make sure contentious
secretary gets lunch?‖
―Why not take lunch with us? You would make a very lovely lunch
companion.‖ Mallory tried to take Irene‘s other arm but Charlie intercepted
him.
―Miss Chow will probably enjoy lunch better after at least starting to
pin poor words of humble cop to page of typewriter.‖
Sally appeared on Mallory‘s other arm.
―Don‘t you want to hear about Mr. Chan‘s lecture?‖ She grinned at
Charlie, ―I’d love to hear whether lecturing on crime is easier then you
thought.‖
Charlie grinned back, knowing that Lee and Irene were nearing the
hall door.
―Remember one lecture to fellow policemen in Honolulu that number
one son broke up while he was in clutches of gambling fit.‖ He shook his
38
head as he was suddenly surrounded by laughter. ―Poorly paid old
Chinaman not only lost train of thought but fifty cents on snozzolola of
unknown horse.‖
―But you knew his owner, Major Kent,‖ Lee said, opening the door.
―Yes,‖ said Charlie, looking into the distance. ―Lost old friend that
time also.‖
―But you brought his murderer to justice, didn‘t you,‖ Sally‘s voice
was full of sympathy. ―I know that you will do the same this time, too.‖
―And just think,‖ Jimmy said, ―you‘ll have my help as well as Lee‘s
this time!‘
―First, lunch,‖ exclaimed President Winton, laughing.
Charlie grinned.
―Humble stomach says, ‗Thank you so much!‘‖
............................................................
They walked down the corridor to the front door.
Sally Winton came up to take Charlie‘s arm and slow him to have a
private word.
―Mr. Charlie, I saw Tom yesterday after you were nearly run down,‖
she said rapidly. ―That‘s not all. Our gardener—‖
Tom dropped back.
―We can‘t let our star lecturer go hungry.‖
―So kind of you.‖ Charlie patted Sally‘s hand on his arm as they went
out the door.
He looked quickly around and saw Lee and Irene going into the front
door of the administration building.
Once inside, Lee turned her around suddenly and carefully looked out.
―What do you think you‘re doing?‖
―Do you see that guy loitering outside the Student Union Building,‖
Lee asked, pointing out a man standing alone with his hat rather
conspicuously pulled down.
Irene clutched his arm.
―You know, Lee, I think I‘ve seen him lately.‖ They quickly looked
at each other and then resumed looking at the stranger.
―I‘ve seen him with that Harry Walden recently but I keep thinking
that I‘ve seen him with someone else. . . .‖
They saw the man stand alertly as he suddenly looking in the direction
of Coleman Winton. He nodded to someone behind him as Winton gets
behind the wheel of his car.
39
The man behind the stranger came out to a nearby car and started
following the Winton car with Charlie in it. Lee got a good look at him as
the car drove by.
―Irene,‖ Lee cried in anguish, ―that‘s the car that tried to run Pop
down!!‖
...........................................................
President Winton and his daughter were making Charlie, Jimmy, Tom
Mallory and Leyland Saunders comfortable in their home.
They were putting away their guests‘ hats in the hall closet when Sally
leaned towards her father.
―Dad, how well do you know Dean Saunders,‖ she asked in a low
voice.
―Why?‖
―I mean, do you completely trust him?‖
―What an odd question! But, since you asked . . . . Leyland came
here from back east with the most impeccable credentials in his field of
political science and philosophy. I spoke to a number of his colleagues and
they certainly concurred with his resumes. His performance as dean has
been quite good. He is a private sort and not too easy to get to know
personally.‖ He closed the closet door. ―Why?‖
―I saw him shortly after Mr. Chan was nearly run down and he was
with our old gardener, when Roberto said he would be in Mexico—‖
―My dear, Saunders is head of the law department. That covers
overseeing the security of this campus. He probably thought like you did
and wanted to see what Robert was up, too.‖
............................................................
They finished their lunch.
Charlie smiled and bowed at Sally and her father as they stood up.
―Charlie,‖ asked Winton, ―why don‘t you and Leyland take the
opportunity to sit a spell and get acquainted? Sally and I have an
appointment at my office that we can‘t get out of. A student meeting with
representatives of the sororities of all things!‖
―We loved having you here, Mr. Chan,‖ said Sally.
―Once again am indebted to generosity of noble university for
excellent repast.‖
Charlie turned from the Wintons‘ retreat from the dining room to
Saunders.
40
―Just a small benefit to supplement the modest wages of academia,
Charlie,‖ he said with a most satisfied smile.
―Teaching law and enforcement of it prestigious but not
remunerative?‖
―Well . . . .‖
―Extra benefits not unwelcome.‖
Saunders looked at him.
―Just so, Charlie.‖
―World situation now present most interesting contrasts for study of
law versus crime.‖
―Yes, it does.‖
―Have theory on same?‖
Sanders was interrupted by Mallory who stretched himself like a cat
before reaching for his wine.
―Strength of arms is, of course, a prerequisite; but, then, many nations
have strength of arms.‖
Sanders covered his disapproval of the young man‘s barging in by
taking out a cigar case and offering it to Charlie who smiled.
―Do not indulge.‖ Charlie continued as Saunders shrugged as he
pulled one out for himself and lit it. ―More then strength alone is needed,
Mr. Mallory?‖
―Strength is worthless without the intelligence and ruthlessness will to
employ it properly.‖
―Many innocents would suffer.‖
―The world never lacks for innocent lives, don‘t you think?‖
Charlie stared at him, sadly, and stood up.
―Most unfortunately true, but this most unhappy subject for midday
repast and I must be going. My secretary will wish to go over notes from
this morning with me.‖
―Ah, yes, the lovely Miss Chow. A most charming lady.‖
Sanders stood up and walked Charlie to the door.
―Meant to ask if you may have been acquainted with most excellent
Professor of Comparative Religions at University of Michigan,‖ Charlie
asked. ―Theodore North. You were there yourself, were you not?‖
―Yes, I was, Mr. Chan. Good old Ann Arbor.‖ He stopped for a
moment. ―That would be . . . yes, of course. Old ‗Batty North‘ we used to
call him because his ears looked like bat wings!‖
Charlie nodded and smiled as Tom Mallory came up behind them.
41
―Thank you for the pleasure of your company, Mr. Chan,‖ Sanders
said as he shook Chan‘s hand. ―We‘ll be seeing each other frequently here.
Good bye.‖
He walked out the door as Tom Mallory took Charlie‘s hand.
―In regards to our little conversation about international politics, don‘t
forget that the judgment of history is generally written by the victor.‖
Mallory winked at him and strolled out the door.
Charlie stared at his retreating back.
―Thank you so much.‖
He stood there for a few moments until a soft noise at the side of the
porch caught his attention. A hand went to the pocket with the gun as he
turned left.
―Don‘t shoot, Pop!‖ Lee appeared, laughing lightly, with Irene in
tow. Are we glad to find YOU!‖
―Evidently have some news to impart?‖ His hand waved them to the
open door as he looked to see that Mallory was too far to hear them.
―You bet we do!‖
Lee and Irene went into the living room to the divan across the
fireplace from a club chair and stood until Charlie sat down.
―When you left your class for lunch,‖ Lee asked.
―We looked across the street to the Student Union Building,‖ Irene
finished for him.
―There was a tall man with a dark hat—‖
―Pulled down over his face—‖
―Hiding by the main entrance—‖
―Ah-ah,‖ Charlie held up his right hand, ―Stop! Very difficult to
watch such fast game of verbal tennis! One reporter only will save humble
detective from stiff neck in morning‖
―Okay, Irene, you tell him.‖
―It‘s a man I‘ve seen around campus for the last two weeks. He
looked vaguely familiar but I haven‘t had a really close look at him.
Anyhow, when I saw him today, I remembered seeing him talking to that
creepy character, Harry Walden.‖
―Pop,‖ Lee said, ―that‘s the guy Jimmy says has been hanging around
campus flashing dough and bragging a lot.‖
―That‘s the man, Mr. Chan,‖ continued Irene. ―Well, just as I made
the connection, the man with the hat turns and walks down the steps of
Student Union Building a short way and it‘s obvious he‘s watching
somebody.‖
―Please to continue,‖ Charlie said.
42
―And the ‗somebody‘ that he‘s watching was the Wntons. I‘d bet on
it, Mr. Chan! Sally and her dad were just getting into their car and as they
drove off . . . .‖
―The stranger signaled to a car parked nearby,‖ Lee jumped in, unable
to restrain himself further. ―A dark sedan like the one that nearly ran you
down yesterday! Then the car drove off in the same direction as the
Wintons.‖
―We‘re certain that that car was following them!‖
Lee made an impatient gesture.
―We tried to flag down ‗Flat-foot‘ Flynn but he didn‘t seem to be too
interested.‖
―Told us to mind our washing, Mr. Chan. Or something like that, the
big sappy, ape!‖
―This is most interesting turn of events. I will ask you to impart
information immediately to Captain Dormers. Tell him, also, that he can
reach me at the house on Pinehurst Road. Suggest, further, you make
inquiries into identity of stranger with hat. Go now. Emulate hunter when
quarry on run and movie quickly.‖
............................................................
Irene walked into the Toy Store to find Lee hanging up the telephone
by the register and turning to her.
―I got Captain Dormers as well as the Wintons. This is as good a
place to have everybody meet up short of clogging up the police station.‖
―Meeting place?‖ Irene laughed as she looked around. ―You said it,
pal!‖
―Okay, okay!‖ Lee stopped as Ling Toy came out of the back room.
He came forward to speak to them when San Toy came in with a
pensive look until she sees Irene and Lee.
―San Toy,‖ Lee grinned, ―are we glad to see you! Something‘s come
up and we need some information and thought you could help.‖
Her interest was peaked and she grinned back.
―Sure, Lee, and I was looking for you, too.‖
Irene elbowed Lee.
―I guess you were right about being a meeting place! Who goes
first?‖
...........................................................
43
― . . . And so you see why that fella‘s identity is so vital,‖ Irene
finished.
San Toy and her father exchanged looks and he nodded.
―As a matter of fact, he has been here several times. Gave his name
as Ralph Thompson. Last time he asked if I knew Harry Walden or Tom
Mallory.‖
―Ralph Thompson?‖ Irene exclaimed. ―Didn‘t he date Sally Winton
before she took up with Tom Walden, San Toy?‖
―Gee, you‘re right. Anyhow, he gave me his phone number and a
nice tip. Seemed like a nice guy.‖ She turned to Lee. ―But I came in to ask
if you‘ve seen Jimmy.‖
―Gosh, no, not since we left you. Why?‖
―I was outside his dorm with some friends when that roommate of
his—Norman—came up with a message that Mr. Chan wanted to met him
right away at the house where you‘re staying. Norman offered to drive him
there, and off they went.‖
―That‘s odd,‖ said Lee, puzzled. ―Pop didn‘t say anything about
meeting Jimmy there.‖
...........................................................
Coleman Winton looked in the rear-view mirror of his car.
―I don‘t like to tell you this, Sally, but I think we‘re being followed.‖
His daughter started turn around.
―No! Don‘t turn around.‖ He stopped at a red light.
―What‘s wrong?‖
―It looks like that car that was involved in running over Mr. Chan.‖
―If we double back towards campus, they wouldn‘t dare interfere with
us there.‖
―Wouldn‘t they, dear?‖ He hit the gas pedal as the light went to
green, throwing Sally back in her seat. ―Mr. Chan was nearly run over there.
This calls for Captain Dormers if I can find him.‖
The car with the coffee brown body and dirty cream top turned left
and sped off out of sight. The young man in the passenger seat turned to the
driver.
―Hey, Norman, it was nice of you to give me a lift. I wonder what
Pop wanted me for?‖ He stared hard at his roommate. ―What gives? Why
did he send you?‖
He looked at the part of town they were in.
―This isn‘t the way to Pinehurst Road!‖
44
―You‘re right, James,‖ Norman smirked, ―We‘re taking a little
detour.‖
―We haven‘t got time for side trips. Turn around!‖
―I‘m afraid this says we do.‖ Norman pulled out a gun from inside his
jacket pocket.
―What‘s the big idea?‖
―Some friends of mine have arranged a date for you with your girl
friend, San Toy. I‘m here to make sure you‘re not late.‖
...........................................................
Coleman Winton pulled up near ―Flat-foot‖ Flynn in front of a large
building downtown.
Flynn notices and marches over.
―Hold on there, you two, this is a no parking zone.‖
―I realize that, Officer, but if you‘ll let me explain—‖
Flynn saw Sally in the car.
―Say! Ain‘t you Sally Winton?‖
―Yes, I am but we‘ve seen the car—‖
―Sorry, ma‘am, but you‘ll still have to move the car.‖
―But if you‘ll let me finish—‖
Flynn stood there and kept pointing to the No Parking Sign as a young
man walks up.
―Can I help up?‖
―Tom! Thank goodness!‖ She turned to her dad who looked at
Mallory with distaste.
―Oh, it‘s you, is it?‖
―Flynn,‖ Mallory said, ―this is Sally‘s father, Coleman Winton, and
he‘s President of the university. You have heard of him, haven‘t you?‖
―Sure, sure! Head guy around here,‖ Flynn began jabbing his night
stick at the sign, ―but, President or not, you can‘t park this jalopy here!‖
Sally looked at the young man.
―Tom, Dad and I were on the way to his office and noticed someone
following us. We started for the jail and lost him on the way.‖
―So why did you think it strange,‖ he asked, his interest perked.
―Is it any of your business?‖ Winton was clearly annoyed. ―We were
trying to tell this imbecile—Flynn—here.‖
―Say,‖ Flynn broke in, ―I resemble that.‖
―Where were you coming from?‖
Winton glared at him.
45
―Dad,‖ Sally said, sharply, ―come now. Tom is only trying to be
helpful.‖
―Not that it concerns you, young man, but we were coming from the
house that we loaned Inspector Chan.‖
A shout caught their attention from across the street. They looked to
see Lee, San Toy and Irene hurrying over.
―Professor Winton, Sally,‖ Lee cried, ―are we glad to see you! We
thought we spotted a car that looked like it was following you. It looked like
the one that nearly ran us over! Did you see it?‖
―We certainly did, young man, but we lost him. It turned off a while
back.‖
―Thank goodness,‖ said Irene. ―Any idea who he was or why he
turned off?‖
―None at all but, with al that‘s been going on, we didn‘t want to find
out!‖
Lee turned to Flynn and Mallory.
―Do either of you know a fellow named Ralph Thompson?‖
Sally quickly spoke up.
―This is Tom Mallory. Tom, this is Miss San Toy, Irene Chow, and
Lee Chan.‖
―Thanks,‖ Tom‘s grin was interrupted by a brief paroxysm of
coughing. ―Sorry, I don‘t know the young man. Who is he?‖
―Someone who‘s been hanging around campus asking lots of
questions,‖ Irene said, ―and we think was connected with the person who
tailed the Wintons.‖
―That IS odd,‖ Tom said, ―but, say, I‘ve forgotten what I came for.
Jimmy asked me to tell you, San Toy, that he needs you right away.
Something to do with an experiment of some sort.‖
―Where is he,‖ Lee asked.
―I believe up at Pinehurst Road. Anyhow, if you‘re ready, I promised
him I‘d give you a lift.‖
Mallory stopped again as a coughing spasm took over again.
Sally moved to go with them.
―No, Sally,‖ Mallory said, wiping his mouth. ―I‘ll be right back.‖
...........................................................
Charlie Chan stood in the living room of the house on Pinehurst Road.
He called to Jaramillo, who enters from the kitchen.
46
―So sorry to disturb you. May impose on you to fetch pen which
clumsy detective drop under couch?‖ Charlie smiled apologetically. Sixty
years of healthy appetite make bending difficult.‖
―Si, Senor Chan.‖ The handyman sprawled in front of the divan
darting his eyes here and there. ―I do not see it.‖
―Perhaps made mistake of pen‘s path to hiding place,‖ Charlie said.
―Senor—I see it!‖ Jaramillo reaches under the table next to the couch
and pulls the pen out. He begins to get up as Charlie rolls the pen between
his fingers.
―I see you use left hand, Senor Jaramillo,‖ Charlie said as he tried to
place the gritty feel to the pen. He looks down to be startled at how reddish
his fingers became.
―Si, senor, I am left handed but . . . ,‖He turns to face the detective
with a gun that Chan had just pulled out of his jacket pocket. ―What does
this mean?‖
―You will put hands up, please.‖ Charlie carefully approaches
Walden and reaches forward, extracting a small pistol from his workpants
pocket. ―You may put down your hands now. Presence of theatrical make
up on houseboy suggests use of disguise. Your real name, please?‖
―You‘re the great detective. YOU figure it out!‖
―No matter. By any name, snake still snake,‖ Charlie said as he
moved to the telephone. ―Authorities will soon determine same.‖
The ―servant‖ glanced to the kitchen for just a split-second.
―Don‘t be so sure, Mr. Chan!‖
―You will please drop your weapon,‖ said a voice in back of Chan,
―and don‘t turn around. Harry, take that lamp cord and make Mr. Chan
comfortable. Please!‖
The Voice prodded Charlie in his back toward the nearest chair as
Walden pulled the cord to tie the Chinese detective up.
―I must apologize,‖ said the Voice, ―but events are coming to a head
and . . . .‖
He shrugged as Walden finished.
―All set, boss. This will hold him for a while. Have you got the kid?‖
―Quiet, you fool. Let‘s go.‖ The Voice bowed to the Honolulu
Detective and said, ―Until we meet again, Mr. Chan.‖
He turned and hurried from the living room and Jaramillo/now Harry
Walden quickly followed. Charlie heard their footsteps go through the
kitchen and out the back porch door. He faintly heard car doors close as
several police cars pulled up front.
47
A familiar sound came to his ears as someone coming up the stairs
was barking orders.
―Wait here, Sergeant. I shouldn‘t be too long.‖
Chan was relieved as Dormers opened the door and recognized the
Chinese detective.
―Red-faced detective overjoyed at timely arrival of brother officer.‖
―What happened, Charlie?
―Discovered servant Jaramillo impostor. Then was surprised by his
unseen partner.‖
Dormers untied the lamp cord as he asked, ―Did you have any chance
to see who he was? Or an idea?‖
―Fear part of very dangerous gang who were are responsible for
deaths of Ben Covert and unfortunate nurse.‖
A policeman leaned toward the Captain.
―Every thing all right, Captain?‖
―Far from all right, Sergeant. Get on the car radio. Tell all cars to
watch out for a pair of guys, one of whom may be dressed as a Mexican
gardener.‖
Charlie waved a now free hand to the policeman.
―Fear disguise already discarded. Unneeded remains of so-called
Roberto Jarmillo no doubt row reside in trash can.‖
He stood up, weaving slightly. Dormers put a hand on Chan‘s arm to
steady him.
―I suspect you‘re right, Charlie. Say what were you looking for just
now?‘
―Was retrieving my gun but discover something of greater value.
Observe please . . . small amount of sand found on floor.‖
Dormers looked closer.
―Note, please, that sand is of peculiar reddish color just as we found
near most unfortunate nurse. Can possibly suggest source?‖
The captain rubbed his chin for a moment when the sergeant caught
his attention.
―I think I can help out, Captain. About 30 miles from here in the
direction of San Diego is ―Red Sands Beach.‖ Not far from the Naval
instillation there.‖
―Most important we go there immediately,‖ Charlie said urgently.‖
...........................................................
A road led from the beach through a thicket of trees large and widely
spaced enough to hide a car.
48
Another pulls up a short distance behind it. The driver shut it down
and got out. He pulled a gun from a jacket pocket and aimed it at a young
woman in the passenger seat.
She got out and he pointed to a large rock formation on the beach.
They reached the rocks and the man pressed an oddly shaped pebble
on the formation before coughing.
―Sam Wu gasped as a hidden door disappeared into the rocks,
revealing a flight of stairs. The man pushed her forward to the stairs.
They reach a large bunker-like room lined with an impressive array of
machine tools as well as electronic and chemical paraphernalia with the
improbable sound of classical music.
Sam‘s eyes searched the room and rested on Jimmy Chan, bound and
gagged in a corner when another movement catches her attention. He
showed signs of an earlier struggle.
Norman Cavendish, III, turned off the record player.
―Glad you could make it,‖ he said to the girl, sarcastically. ―I was just
entertaining my good roommate with some of his favorite Mozart Etudes.
Unfortunately, he wasn‘t in a receptive mood. Perhaps due to the working
over he got earlier for not cooperating. But now, he is a ―captive audience‖
as you cam see.‖
San Toy ran to Jimmy to untie him.
―Are you all right? What have they done to you?‖
―I‘ve felt worse! But a Chan doesn‘t talk to—or help—thugs.
―Thugs, indeed, James! Your cutting remark pains me deeply.‘
―Okay, Norman, cut the comedy. I take it he didn‘t play ball.‖
She and Jimmy exchanged glances as they recognized the voice of
Tom Mallory.
―Nothing much . . . yet. Depends on his cooperation now that you‘re
here, girlie.‖
―His cooperation with what,‖ San Toy cried out.
Tom lounged over to a chair.
―We understand that your boy friend has developed has developed a
formula to increase. We also know that you‘re his assist. We want that
formula, and since Jimmy, here, has been . . . . ―
―We brought you,‖ Norman said, leering, ―to help get the
information.‖
―And if I DON‘T?‖
Tom smiled, and pointed his gun at Jimmy‘s head, pretending to shoot
it.
49
―I suppose I have no choice.‖ Sam looked around the room. ―It looks
as though you have a pretty complete lab. Give me an hour to work on it.‖
―Now you‘re talking sense, Miss Wu,‖ Norman said.
―Look, Norman, you keep an eye on them,‖ Tom said through another
cough, ―while I contact the chief.‖
...........................................................
Sally, Irene and Lee are headed to the Student Union Building.
―Gee, Irene, it‘s hard to think about going to the SUB for an
interview—even though I‘d enjoy it with you as ‗girl reporter‘!—with all
this other things going all,‖ Lee smiled sheepishly. ―Pop and Jimmy are
over at the house, and this mysterious character hanging around.‖
He stopped in his tracks, straining his eyes to see in the distance.
―Say, Irene, isn‘t that the guy who calls himself Ralph Thompson
headed this way?
She squints her eyes and recognizes him.
―Right, Lee, that‘s him all right! And he‘s the one—‖
―But . . . but . . . ,‖ Sally sputtered as the man in question approached
them smiling. She shyly smiled. ―Brandon?‖
―Sally!‖ He put an arm around her as he leaned down to kiss her.
―No!‖
―No?‖
Sally pushed him away.
―Brandon Mitchell, what‘s all this cloak and dagger business about
Ralph Thompson about?‖
―But I had to, Sally! It‘s like this—‖
―No, it‘s like this!‖ She turned around and marched off.
―But . . . .‖ Brandon followed her but Sally just waved him off and
started running.
Brandon started walking briskly behind her, not noticing Flat-foot
Flynn staring at him. Flynn started his car up and turned around to overtake
Brandon as the younger man got closer to Sally.
Lee and Irene stared after them.
―What gives, Lee?‖
―Say,‖ he said excitedly, ―do you suppose that he has something to do
with the murder of Pop‘s friend, Ben Covert?‖
―Are you thinking what I‘m thinking?‖
―He could be the man who met Harry Walden when we left the lecture
hall? Who seemed to be watching Pop and the Wintons?‖
―Maybe we ought to get Tom Mallory to help us,‖ Sally asked.
50
―Mallory,‖ Lee repeated, ―Mallory! He took San Toy to meet Jimmy!
Said he needed her!‖
―I don‘t like this, Lee.‖
―Neither do I.‖ He turned to face Irene. ―Where did he say they were
going? To the house on Pinehurst Road?‘
He faced Irene and gripped her arms.
―That‘s where Norman said that Pop wanted to see Jimmy and offered
him a ride.‖
They stared into each other‘s eyes.
A movement startled them back into reality.
They turned to see the man who had followed Charlie Chan and the
Wintons after Charlie‘s lecture.
―Son, I need to find Brandon Mitchell quick or your father.‖
They jumped as he pulled something out of a back pocket of his pants.
He grinned as he showed them his wallet and opened it to an identity card
that read Dan O‘Brien.
―I‘m in Naval intelligence attached to the base here.‖
Lee and Irene hesitated.
―A radio alert just came through. Big dust up at Pinehurst Road.
Chan had a run-in with a fake gardener who got away.‖ He softened his
voice. ―Now settle down, son. Running off half-cocked isn‘t going to help
the situation any. Your pop‘s fine.‖
―Do you have any idea about the gardener,‖ Irene asked.
―We thing he was Harry Walden in disguise as the Winton‘s
gardener.‖
―Disguised,‖ Lee exclaimed, ―as the gardener?‖
―Yes,‖ O‘Brien said. ―We think he headed in the direction of Red
Sand Beach.‖
―But isn‘t that where the naval installation is,‖ Irene asked.
―And where Brandon Mitchell is stationed,‖ Lee added.
―You kids seem to know all about this.‖
Lee nodded.
―You folks up for some action?‖
Lee and Irene glanced at each other and nodded.
―I‘ll contact the field and get the Fairchild fired up to save time . . . .‖
............................................................
Tom Mallory stood outside the rocky entrance of their underground
bunker. He took a drag on his cigar as Harry Walden parked his car next to
Mallory‘s and walked over.
51
―Everything ready, Mallory?‖
―Yes.‖ He dropped his cigarette and smashed it out with his shoe.
―Let‘s go in.‖
Sam eyes them as Mallory approached her.
―Any results yet?‖
Norman broke in.
―Nothing ye, Tom, except for some impressive sound effects.
Gurgling and hissing mainly with an occasional burp thrown in.‖
―All you need to do,‖ Mallory said, ―is keep your mouth shut and an
eye on her.‖
―Gladly,‖ Norman smirked.
Chan and Dormers parked behind Walden‘s car.
Charlie looked at the police Captain who was turning the car off.
―Presence of automobiles shout obvious message that beach is not
deserted.‖
They got out and headed to the rocky hideaway. Chan paused to pick
up some sand and showed it to Dormers, who was putting a hand on the
hood of Walden‘s car.
―Would appear grains of sand found at both hospital and at house on
Pinehurst Road are of same family as sand of this beach. Please follow me.‖
Dormers nodded.
―This car is still very warm.‖
They followed the footprints from the car to the rocks and stopped at a
jumble of footprints.
―Maybe they climbed up, Charlie,‖ Captain Dormers said factitiously.
Chan picked up the discarded cigarette.
―Note remains of deceased cigarette.‖ He sniffed it and held it out for
the Captain.
―And recently.‖
―Please observe smudges made by grease paint on rocks . . . .‖
Charlie pulled out a small magnifying glass. ―Yes.‖
He grimly handed the glass to Dormers.
―You‘re right. Same color Walden used as the gardener.‖
―Most cleverly hidden entrance.‖
―Our back up should be here any minute.‖
―Cannot wait for their arrival. Danger great and time very short.‖
They both pulled out their automatics and checked them.
...........................................................
O‘Brien shouted over his little plane‘s engine to Lee and Irene.
52
―All ready, kids?‖
―Yes, sir!‖
―Okay, we‘re on our way to Red Sands Beach!‖
The plane taxied down and gradually raised itself as it gained speed.
―How far is it, Mr. O‘Brien,‖ Lee shouted.
―About fifteen minutes, and the name is Dan.‖
―Is there an airport we can use,‖ Irene asked.
―No need for one. It‘s low tide and I can put down easy on the packed
sand. I know the area well and it‘s a technique we practice in naval
aviation,‖
―Swell,‖ Irene smiled.
―And save time,‖ Lee grinned back at her.
―That‘s the idea,‖ O‘Brien said.
...........................................................
Samantha Wu added fluid from a beaker into a large flask.
―This should do it. Best as I can recall, this is Jimmy‘s formula.‖
The three men crowded her at the workbench.
―Looks weird enough.‖ Tom squinted.
―What color is that stuff,‖ asked Norman.
―You two knock it off,‖ Walden said as he snatched the flask from
Sam. ―This ain‘t no art exhibit. We‘ll try it on this test motor.‖
He walked to a small single-cylinder engine mounted on a test stand.
Tom and Norman moved back, covering their noses and mouths.
―Say,‖ Tom gasped, ―That stuff smells strong. Takes your breath
away.‖
―Yeah,‖ Walden said at the motor, ―and your pipes aren‘t too strong to
start with.‖
He sniffed.
―I see what you mean.‖
Norman put his hand to his forehead.
―Kind of a sick, sweet smell.‖ He staggered. ―I don‘t feel so . . . .‖
Norman settled to the floor.
Mallory glanced over woozily.
―Hey, Norman . . . get . . . .‖ Mallory falls in a heap close to Norman.
―Okay,‖ Walden said, ―cut out the kidding around! I think we‘re
ready to flip it . . . .‖
He has been too engrossed in hooking up the ignition terminal and
hasn‘t immediately noted what has occurred. Hearing the sound of Tom
53
hitting the floor, Walden looks up from his work and notes his two fallen
friends.
―What the—,‖ Walden staggered and fell down.
Sam had wasted no time as soon as she saw they were concentrating
on the flask she had prepared. She had looked for the equipment to recreate
Jimmy‘s formula and come across a cabinet with several masks and small
oxygen tanks. She pulled out one that she used to pull its mask on Jimmy
and turned the tank on. She put one on herself so she could untie his cords
more easily.
Sam was helping Jimmy get the circulation back in his legs as Charlie
and Dormers came in.
―Pop! Am I glad to see you! These guys are a gang of spies and were
trying to steal my formula.‖
―Note that fate has not treated you kindly, but sight of number two
son, like rays of sunshine after bad storm, most welcome to worried parent.‖
Jimmy turned to the unconscious trio on the floor and looked at
Samantha Wu.
―Gee, Sam, what did you put in that stuff?‖
―Oh,‖ she said with obvious pride, ― just some ether, a little food
coloring and a smidgen of chloroform.‖
Dormers chuckled.
―It sure looks like it did these birds in. Looks like they‘re going to
sleep for a week.‖
He began handcuffing them.
―Wisdom and beauty,‖ Charlie said, ―most happy combination.‖
―Thank you, Mr. Chan,‖ Sam blushed.
...........................................................
A plane began its approach to the beach.
Dan O‘Brien sat in the pilot‘s seat.
―Looks pretty clear along the tide basin. We‘ll put down near the
edge of the water. Tide‘s still running out so we‘re good for several hours.
Buckle in now and hold tight.‖
He brought the plane in and taxied to a stop. O‘Brien led them out of
the plane and turned to them on the beach.
―Stay together now. We‘ll head for those trees near the beach.‖
..........................................................
54
Figures moved carefully behind them in the trees. One leans toward
another.
―Mr. O‘Brien,‖ Lee murmured, ―I think there are some cars over
there.‖
―Hold it!‖ Dan O‘Brien ducked behind the nearest bushes.
―Everyone down!‖
He pulled out binoculars and looked through them. He saw two
figures approaching a sergeant standing next to Captain Dormers police car.
A noise caught the sergeant‘s attention he turning in time to see two figures
walk up to him.
―Hello! What are YOU doing here?‖
One of the men hit the cop over the head so they could hide him in the
trunk of the police car. They were brushing sand off their hands as they
reappeared and headed toward the secret rock entrance. The door swung
open and they disappear within. O‘Brien puts his binoculars away.
―Well, I‘ll be. Those two men just went into a rock. Must be some
hidden entrance . . . to a cave?‖ O‘Brien looked over to the girls. ―Let‘s go
down there but be careful, ladies. This could get rough so stay in back of
us.‖
―Don‘t worry about US,‖ Sally said, sharing a glance with Irene.
―You said it.‖
They proceeded down to the beach, spreading out as they approached
a police car.
Lee looked in the back seat.
―Say, I think someone‘s in there. Looks like he‘s asleep.‖
―Not asleep, Lee,‖ Irene reached in, ―unconscious, I think.‖
She moved aside for O‘Brien.
―Looks like someone slugged him, all right. He‘ll be out for a while.
We had better have a look at that rock.‖
...........................................................
Norman, Walden, and Mallory and began to stir. They were still
under the watchful eyes of Chan and Dormers who are each holding guns.
Jimmy and San Toy are watching from the laboratory bench.
―Hey,‖ Walden said, ―what gives? What the sh . . . what‘s happened?
He slowly realized that he is handcuffed to the others.
Dormers stepped forward to get their attention.
―All right, you birds,‖ he said, ―just get up slowly and try not to get
tangled up in each other.‖
―I don‘t feel so well,‖ Norman whined.
55
―Anybody got a cigarette?‖ Tom felt his pockets in a groggy fashion.
―Come on, get up and get going,‖ cried Dormers, waving his gun
toward the door. ―The State of California will soon be seeing to all your
needs.‖
They stopped dead in their tracks as they heard a voice at the door.
―I came to help you guys out,‖ said Flat-foot Flynn, ―and look who I
ran into!‖
The others stared as Flynn pushed a hand-cuffed Brandon Mitchell
forward with the working end of his pistol. Leyland Sanders followed
closely behind him.
―It‘s Flat-foot Flynn,‖ Tommy whispered to Sally.
―With Brandon Mitchell,‖ she whispered back.
―And Professor Sanders,‖ Tommy looked confused.
Dormers walked over to Mitchell and started unlocking his
―bracelets.‖ Mitchell started rubbing his wrists as he sat to one side in the
shadows.
―Aren‘t you a bit out of your territory, Flynn?‖
―He‘s been acting funny,‖ Flynn said defensively. ―These kids were
checking him out.‖
―As have I,‖ said Sanders, ―I came along, Captain, to be sure that
justice was done.‖
He turned as Charlie walked over to him, Chan‘s hand in his pocket.
―I wasn‘t sure Flynn could do the job himself, Lieutenant,‖ he
murmured suavely.
―Unfortunate friend, Ben Covert,‖ Charlie began, ―was on trail of
international spy ring. Previously had written me that he suspected
important member of ring in this area. His general description fit two people:
Brandon Mitchell and Leyland Sanders.‖
Flat-foot Flynn yanked his handcuffs back from Captain Dormers.
―You can‘t get around Mitchell here has been acting mighty funny.‖
―On the contrary,‖ Charlie bowed to Mitchell, ―am happy to say that
my friend‘s notes also make mention that Mr. Mitchell has been acting on
instruction from honorable United States Navy to investigate spy ring here
and to act as necessary on his own.‖
―That‘s all well and good,‖ Flynn countered, waving the handcuffs at
Mitchell, ―but how can you be sure that this man is Mitchell and that‘s what
his instructions are?‖
―What are you talking about, Charlie,‖ Sanders asked. ―Are you
kidding or have you been hitting the opium pipe?‖
56
―You claimed acquaintance with Professor Caruthers who exists only
in imagination of humble detective. You are spy . . . and murderer . . .of
Ben Covert and unfortunate nurse.‖
―An old trick, but I fell for it,‖ Sanders smiled. ―It‘s what I get for
underestimating you, Inspector Chan.‖
―Special Agent Covert also sent pictures of Mitchell and spy named
Sir Roderick Sears. Or, perhaps, Pierre Montard?‖
―Any of those will do, . . . Mr. Chan. It took a world-renowned
detective such as yourself to find me out.‖
He watched as Charlie went to Flynn and took his handcuffs in his left
hand, the gun in his right hand covering Sanders. Sanders smiled as Charlie
turned to him.
―I think not, Inspector Chan,‖ Sanders said suavely. ―You might
notice a button on the floor next to my shoe. Should I step on it, a powerful
explosive will be detonated.‖
―Fear innocent lives are a cheap commodity.‖
―As young Mallory said at lunch innocent lives are a cheap
commodity.‖
The two men stood there for a moment, sizing each other up, not
noticing San Toy making gestures at Mitchell. The man nodded as she
elbowed Jimmy next to her. He glanced at her and shrugged his shoulders.
Jimmy was even more confused when she moaned loudly and fainted
onto the floor. Everyone‘s attention went to San Toy.
Mitchell took the opportunity to try to tackle Sanders who half
expected it and jumped aside, cursing the younger man. Sanders lunged for
a lever hidden in the cave wall and pulled it down, running through the
second door the lever opened.
―Quick,‖ Charlie asked Norman, ―where does passage lead?‖
―I don‘t know,‖ Mallory spat out.
Mitchell strode over and pushed Norman into a chair and bent over
him like an avenging angel.
―No time for lying. I‘d advise you to cooperate.‖
―It . . . it comes out just inside the trees.‖
The men take off as a group to follow Sanders, Charlie taking the lead
with his pocket flashlight. They were underground for only a few minutes.
They emerged to a buzzing sound on the beach. They gasped as they saw
Sanders climbing into the cockpit.
―Look,‖ Lee cried out, ―it‘s Flynn.‖
Brandon Mitchell cupped his hands.
―Stop, Flynn! You can‘t get away with it.‖
57
―Until we meet again, gentlemen,‖ Sanders shouted from the cockpit.
―Looks like he‘s going to get away,‖ Jimmy cried out.
Brandon Mitchell looked at him.
―Not likely, Jimmy. I put some fireworks in the engine and if anyone
started it without taking the stuff out . . . !‖
KABLOOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
................................................. .........
Jimmy is sitting up in a hospital bed, surrounded by Charlie and Lee
Chan, Irene Chow, Samantha Wu and Brandon Mitchell and Sally Winton at
the foot of the bed.
―Gee, Pop, all this attention is embarrassing. I fell all right!
―You having such a hard time of it,‖ Lee said, ―aren‘t you?‖
―Most fortunate circumstances that dubious secret formula concocted
by number two son proved valuable in bringing spies out into open.‖
―I guess so, Pop!‖ Jimmy pouted. Turns out it wasn‘t any good as a
power booster.‖
―Contradiction, please,‖ Charlie said. ―Make powerful difference in
lives of Sally and Brandon. Soon to be ‗Mr. and Mrs.‘ Turn out to be ‗A-
number-one‘ love potion.‖
―We‘ll always be grateful to all of you,‖ Sally said, smiling up at
Mitchell.
Samantha started laughing.
―And I‘m grateful for the scoop I‘m getting on this story! My father
CAN‘T overlook this!‖
She heard some humming and then a knock low on the door. She
opened it as the visitor was about to hit it again with her foot.
It was San Toy bearing a heavy tray loaded with frosty glasses with
straws sticking out. She put it on the breakfast stand in front of Jimmy.
―Here is something special for all, courtesy of MY Pop. Mr. Ling
Toy‘s deluxe and extra special thick chocolate malted milks.
Lee picked one up and turned to his father.
―A toast to my Pop, the greatest detective of them all, Charlie Chan!!‖
Everybody added to the toast until Charlie held up his right hand.
―May not be greatest detective, but most assuredly have finest sons!‖
―Gee, Pop,‖ Jimmy said, ―I can‘t add anything to that!‖
Charlie and Lee Chan stood, grinning at each other over Jimmy‘s
hospital bed. They looked at him and spoke in unison.
―THANK YOU SO MUCH!‖
58
The End
