Feb. 26, 2023
Toying With Fate; Or Nick Carter's Narrow Shave, Pt 1
In this episode, an unknown old man, who was recently released from prison, is murdered in his sleep! Nick Carter is on the trail in a flash! What clues will he find?
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Transcript
WEBVTT
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Hi friends.
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And welcome once again to another episode of forward into the past.
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I am JC Rede, your host and narrator.
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And today we're delving back into the world of Nick Carter, the dashing detective from turn of the 20th century, New York.
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Nick Carter, as you now may know, is one of the most iconic detectives of American literature.
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He's the protagonist of the popular dime novels that were published in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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The character was realized by John R Correale, but it was the writer, Frederick van Rens layer day that popularized the series.
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Nick Carter first appeared in a story entitled.
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The old detectives pupil in 1886.
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From then on the character became a regular feature in the detective genre, appearing in hundreds of story papers and dime novels over several decades.
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The Nick Carter character was a departure from the typical detective characters of the time.
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While other detectives were portrayed as middle-aged men with a lot of experience.
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Nick Carter was a young and dashing detective in his twenties.
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He was handsome, intelligent, and highly skilled in martial arts and firearms.
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He was also a master of disguise often using different personas to infiltrate criminal organizations.
00:01:28.944 --> 00:01:32.394
The Nick Carter series was immensely popular during its heyday.
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The story paper exploits were serialized in dime novels and readers eagerly awaited.
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The next installment.
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The series spawned numerous imitations and soon other publishers were turning out their own detective series.
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But here at forward into the past, we have the original.
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Today, we begin a tale that was written way back in 1903, entitled toying with fate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
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Toying with fate.
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Or Nick Carter's narrow shave by Nicholas Carter.
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Chapter one.
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The mysterious old man.
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Move on old man and go home.
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It was the stern voice of one of new York's finest policemen that uttered those words.
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Home.
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I wonder where that is.
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Muttered the old man to whom the policemen had spoken, and a shutter ran through his frame.
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As he slowly moved down the street.
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As he reached the corner near old St.
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John's church on Varick street.
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He paused, rubbed his eyes and gazed dreamily about him.
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For some time before the policemen had addressed him, he had been standing inside the church, looking through the railings into the church yard.
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His form was bent by decrepitude and sorrow.
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And his hair was as white as the flaky snow, that clung to the steeple of the old church.
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The bells of which had just sounded the knell of the dying year.
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The old man only halted on the corner for a minute.
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And then crossing beach street.
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He shuffled along until he reached the center of the block, where he came to a standstill in front of an old fashioned house which was unoccupied.
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Then as if a faintness had come over him, he grasped the rusty iron railing to prevent himself falling to the ground.
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And he closed his eyes as though the sight of the snow covered houses was too much for him.
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The policemen had followed him at a distance.
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And it was watching him from where he was standing on the corner.
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Poor devil mutter the guardian of the peace as he swung his nightstick back and forth.
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I wonder who he is.
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He seems weak.
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Perhaps at one time he amounted to something.
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God saved me from ever coming to his condition.
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I wonder why he stands so long in front of that old empty house, which has been closed for 20 years, to my knowledge.
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I'll watch them awhile, but I won't molest him.
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Poor devil.
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As the policeman concluded his soliloquy.
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The old man straightened up and walked up to the door of the house, the old knocker on which he caught hold of and gave it a wrap.
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But suddenly as if struck by some painful recollection, his hand fell to a side and he staggered back to the middle of the sidewalk.
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Strange.
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The policemen ejaculated, noting this action.
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Perhaps he lived there at one time.
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The old man looked up at the house at which he gazed long and intently.
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Then suddenly arousing himself.
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He ambled back to the corner, stopping near the policemen.
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He looked confusedly around him from the left to the right.
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And the policemen gazed at him closely, but spoke, not a word.
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On his part.
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He did not seem to see the man in uniform.
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He stood bewildered appearing, not to know which way to turn.
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Why don't you go home old, man.
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The policeman asked this time in a softened tone of voice.
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Uh, home.
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The old fellow ejaculated his voice, like a wail, a heartbroken sob.
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Home.
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Where is it?
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The Lord bless you, Matt.
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How can I tell you if you can't tell yourself?
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20 years ago, 20 years behind darkened walls.
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And this.
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He muttered the words in such a, forlorn tone that the policemen stared at him.
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Your brain is turned old, gentlemen.
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The old man laughed and looked up into his questioners face with a quizzical expression.
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My.
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Brain is clear.
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My friend.
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He replied in a clear, harsh tone.
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I have come from a prison.
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The world is strangely altered since I was in it before.
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In it before.
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Why, what do you mean.
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I suppose you will try and persuade me that you have been dead and have risen from the grave.
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Figuratively speaking.
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I have, I.
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Have been dead to the world in prison.
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At sing, sing.
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Mark me well, Sing sing prison for 20 years.
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Today I was released.
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See me now.
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I am old decrepit, hardly able to walk.
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Once I stood erect.
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My hair was as black as the Raven's wing.
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And now.
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Oh, look at me.
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a wreck without home or friends.
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Wife.
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Children all gone.
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I have never seen, nor heard of them since the day I was taken out of yonder house as a prisoner by the unjust hardened, cruel decree of so called court of justice.
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20 years.
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Uh, prisoner buried alive as it were.
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You had committed a crime.
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No.
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I was innocent.
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But powerful conspirators plotted against me.
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The evidence was perjured and I.
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I.
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Was entombed.
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You say you lived in yonder house 20 years ago.
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Yes.
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And no men carried his head higher than I did.
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I was rich.
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But.
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What is the use of rehearsing those things to a stranger?
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Hardened as you are by association with crime, you would not believe my story.
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You would think that I was romancing?
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Oh, things have sadly changed in this neighborhood.
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You may bet they have.
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Once.
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All these houses were occupied by rich people.
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But today.
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They all the abodes of.
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Of the poor and the outcast.
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What is your name, sir?
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My name.
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It matters not good night.
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Well, well, keep your secret old man.
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God bless you may this new year bring you happiness.
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Ah, happiness.
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I shall never know that again.
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Good night again.
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He moved off slowly and the policemen watched him until he turned the corner into west Broadway.
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When he proceeded to patrol his beat.
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As the policemen moved away.
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Uh, dark forum came out of a nearby doorway and hurried around the corner.
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The man was tall.
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He wore a long Ulster with the collar turned up around his neck and a slouch hat that was pulled down over his eyes.
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He followed closely in the old man's trail.
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The old man halted several times.
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And as he did, so his form seemed to lose its decrepitude.
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As the light from the street lamps shown upon his face.
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It could be seen that his eyes glared like two living Coles.
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He threw his hand aloft.
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And so fierce and startling was the action that the man who was following him, halted and shrank back for an instant.
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As if he had been struck.
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Vengeance the old man hissed, and then he started on again.
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The street was deserted save by the old man and the man who was following him.
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The former walked on, looking up at the tall warehouses and store buildings, muttering to himself.
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More than once he put his hand up to his head and gazed about in a bewildered manner.
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His limbs shook under him, for a long time, had passed since they had been used to such exertion.
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The fresh air came.
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So strangely upon him that he panted for breath.
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Suddenly he halted in front of an old fashioned three story brick building near chamber street.
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Uh, beacon shaped red lamp was burning over the doorway.
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And upon the front pane of glass was painted.
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The red dragon in established by William sill, 1776.
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It was an old landmark in the neighborhood.
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And it had always been a hot story.
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In revolutionary times it was a post Roadhouse and was famous as the headquarters of many of the British officers.
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During later days, it became the resort.
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At the Noonday hour of many of new York's most stayed and solid merchants whose places of business were in the vicinity.
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At this time.
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The ground floor was occupied by a man who ran a saloon and restaurant.
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And who rented out the upstairs rooms to transient lodgers.
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No improvements have been made about the place.
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And it stood just as it did when it was conducted by its original owner.
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As the old man paused in front of the end.
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The sound of voices and the clinking of glasses came from within.
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He walked up to the door and opened it.
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Then he stepped into the saloon, staggered up to the bar and in a low tone, ordered a glass of toddy, which was supplied to him.
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A number of men were seated at the tables drinking, and none of them paid any attention to the newcomer.
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Who drank his toddy while standing and leaning against the bar.
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The old man placed his empty glass back upon the counter and facing the bartender said.
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I want a room for the night.
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There is only one empty.
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The bartender replied.
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It is in the attic.
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That will answer my purpose.
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It will cost you$1.
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The old man drew purse out of his pocket.
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Took out the amount and handed it to the bartender who asked.
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Do you want to retire now?
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I do.
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The old man answered.
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I will show you the way up.
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That won't be necessary.
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I am familiar with every room in the house.
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Many of the time I have stopped here in other days.
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If you will tell me which room I am to occupy, I will go up to it.
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The second room in the back part of the attic on the left of the stairway is the one.
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You will find a lamp on the table in the hall of the second floor.
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All right.
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The old man left the room while the bartender gazed after him with curiosity.
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He climbed the stairway and reach the second floor.
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Where he found the lamp.
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And then proceeded upstairs to the attic room.
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An hour after he retired, the house was silent.
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All the midnight revelers having gone home and the bartender having closed up the saloon.
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New year's day, dawned bright and clear.
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The proprietor of the red dragon in opened the bar room and at nine o'clock.
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The bartender came downstairs.
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For a time, the two men stood talking.
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There were no customers in the place.
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At last, the bartender asked the proprietor.
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If he had seen anything of the strange old man who had come in after midnight.
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The proprietor.
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Said that the old man had not appeared.
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Did he request you to call him?
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He inquired.
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No.
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The bartender answered.
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Shall I go up and ask him if he wants breakfast.
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Yes.
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The bartender ascended to the attic.
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The door of the room, which the old man had been assigned to stood a jar.
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The man knocked, but there was no answer.
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He pounded again and shouted still.
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No answer.
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Finally, the man pushed the door open.
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A terrible site, met his gaze.
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Stretched out upon the bed.
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He beheld the old man with his throat, cut from ear to ear.
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His hands were folded across his breast.
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And he was covered by the coverlet of the bed.
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Evidently.
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There had been no struggle.
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The bartender uttered a cry of alarm, but he did not enter the room.
00:13:41.028 --> 00:13:47.118
As soon as he recovered from his surprise, he dashed off downstairs crying murder at the top of his voice.
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Instantly the house was aroused and in a short time, a great crowd congregated in the street.
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In front of the door.
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Chapter two.
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Searching for clues.
00:13:59.717 --> 00:14:11.597
Early on new year's morning, Nicholas Carter, the famous detective arrived in Jersey city on a train from Chicago, where he had been investigating a diamond case, which he had closed up successfully.
00:14:12.408 --> 00:14:16.788
Danny his chauffer met him at the station with his powerful touring car.
00:14:16.900 --> 00:14:22.331
And in a few minutes, they were crossing the Hudson river on the downtown ferry over to chambers street.
00:14:23.201 --> 00:14:27.431
They had just landed and were beginning to get headway along that thoroughfare.
00:14:27.791 --> 00:14:31.480
When their attention was attracted by a loud commotion in the street.
00:14:32.471 --> 00:14:39.030
Leaning over Carter be held the crowd congregating in front of the red dragon Inn, which was almost opposite.
00:14:39.571 --> 00:14:41.971
He heard the cries of murder.
00:14:42.671 --> 00:14:45.100
Instantly the veterans energies were aroused.
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He forgot all about his not having had breakfast and springing out.
00:14:49.780 --> 00:14:53.921
He pushed his way through the crowd and entered the bar room of the red dragon in.
00:14:54.821 --> 00:14:59.620
There he found the proprietor pacing up and down in a state of nervous excitement.
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A policemen was also there.
00:15:02.081 --> 00:15:04.541
And to him, Nick applied for information.
00:15:05.240 --> 00:15:06.770
I can't make head nor tail of it.
00:15:07.280 --> 00:15:09.260
The policemen replied to Carter's inquiry.
00:15:10.071 --> 00:15:12.051
I've sent word to the police station, Mr.
00:15:12.051 --> 00:15:12.410
Carter.
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And I am expecting the captain every minute.
00:15:15.510 --> 00:15:16.500
Have you been upstairs?
00:15:17.400 --> 00:15:20.431
Now sir, I thought it best to wait until the captain arrived.
00:15:20.990 --> 00:15:21.951
Where is the bartender.
00:15:22.610 --> 00:15:23.541
Standing over there.
00:15:24.201 --> 00:15:26.990
And the policemen pointed to the man who is leaning against the bar.
00:15:27.801 --> 00:15:30.321
Carter stepped up to the bartender and asked.
00:15:30.721 --> 00:15:31.441
What is your name?
00:15:32.041 --> 00:15:32.850
George Terry.
00:15:33.071 --> 00:15:34.061
The bartender answered.
00:15:34.681 --> 00:15:35.941
How long have you been employed here?
00:15:36.581 --> 00:15:37.360
Three years.
00:15:37.941 --> 00:15:39.650
I believe you discovered the murder.
00:15:40.150 --> 00:15:40.870
Well, I did, sir.
00:15:41.471 --> 00:15:42.130
At what time?
00:15:42.730 --> 00:15:44.380
About 20 minutes ago.
00:15:44.880 --> 00:15:45.541
Do you know, the man.
00:15:46.380 --> 00:15:48.061
No, sir, he's a stranger to me.
00:15:48.660 --> 00:15:49.410
What's his name?
00:15:50.701 --> 00:15:51.990
I forgot to ask him.
00:15:52.490 --> 00:15:53.541
Don't you keep a register.
00:15:53.990 --> 00:15:54.441
No, sir.
00:15:54.951 --> 00:15:56.150
What time did the man arrive?
00:15:56.711 --> 00:15:57.821
Shortly after midnight.
00:15:58.421 --> 00:15:59.860
Did he have any luggage?
00:16:00.311 --> 00:16:00.880
No, sir.
00:16:01.500 --> 00:16:03.150
Tell me all about your conversation with him.
00:16:04.360 --> 00:16:07.061
As I said, he came in here shortly after midnight.
00:16:07.451 --> 00:16:10.360
He seemed weak and exhausted as he slipped up to the bar.
00:16:10.900 --> 00:16:13.541
He requested me to make him a hot toddy, which I did.
00:16:14.260 --> 00:16:15.581
After he'd finished his drink.
00:16:16.051 --> 00:16:18.221
He had asked me if I could let them have a room for the night.
00:16:18.520 --> 00:16:21.581
And I told him that the attic room was vacant and that he could have that.
00:16:22.181 --> 00:16:24.341
He paid the price out of a well-filled purse.
00:16:24.870 --> 00:16:26.910
I offered to conduct him up to the room, Mr.
00:16:26.910 --> 00:16:31.831
Carter but he said it would not be necessary because he was familiar with the house.
00:16:32.311 --> 00:16:35.880
He having stopped here on various occasions 20 years ago.
00:16:36.750 --> 00:16:37.711
He left the room.
00:16:38.221 --> 00:16:41.311
And that was the last I saw of him until I discovered his murdered body.
00:16:41.701 --> 00:16:45.181
When I went up to the attic to call him and opened the door of his room, he occupied.
00:16:45.880 --> 00:16:49.301
You heard him say he had stopped here on various occasions 20 years ago.
00:16:50.020 --> 00:16:50.530
Yes, sir.
00:16:51.260 --> 00:16:52.400
What's the proprietor's name.
00:16:53.120 --> 00:16:54.140
Henry Lancaster.
00:16:54.750 --> 00:16:56.280
How long has he conducted this place?
00:16:57.211 --> 00:16:57.961
10 years.
00:16:58.630 --> 00:17:00.941
Do you know the name of the man from whom he purchased it?
00:17:01.900 --> 00:17:03.041
No, sir, I do not.
00:17:04.211 --> 00:17:07.961
Has anyone been upstairs to the murdered man's room since you made the discovery?
00:17:08.800 --> 00:17:09.990
No one's been near it sir.
00:17:10.421 --> 00:17:11.441
Everything is undisturbed.
00:17:11.441 --> 00:17:12.431
I did not enter.
00:17:13.901 --> 00:17:15.941
Um, I will speak to the proprietor.
00:17:17.411 --> 00:17:18.520
Carter approached Mr.
00:17:18.520 --> 00:17:21.461
Lancaster, who was a middle-aged man of affable manners.
00:17:22.161 --> 00:17:25.760
The bartender informs me that you have conducted this place for about 10 years.
00:17:25.971 --> 00:17:27.830
The detective said, as he came up to Mr.
00:17:27.830 --> 00:17:28.401
Lancaster.
00:17:28.980 --> 00:17:30.780
I've owned it for nearly 11 years.
00:17:31.020 --> 00:17:31.320
Mr.
00:17:31.320 --> 00:17:32.221
Lancaster replied.
00:17:32.721 --> 00:17:33.861
From whom did you purchase it?
00:17:34.310 --> 00:17:37.911
A man named Peter Wright who had been the proprietor for nearly a quarter of a century.
00:17:38.500 --> 00:17:38.980
Is Mr.
00:17:38.980 --> 00:17:39.790
Wright alive.
00:17:40.871 --> 00:17:41.361
He is.
00:17:41.881 --> 00:17:42.840
Where does he reside?
00:17:43.510 --> 00:17:45.520
At the cosmopolitan hotel across the street.
00:17:45.881 --> 00:17:48.221
He's a bachelor and entirely alone in the world.
00:17:48.520 --> 00:17:50.020
All of his relatives having died.
00:17:50.621 --> 00:17:53.171
He's an Englishman by birth and, and a courtly old gentlemen.
00:17:53.830 --> 00:17:57.851
He has a moderate income to live on and he is enjoying himself in his declining years.
00:17:58.300 --> 00:18:00.191
All of the merchants of old New York knew him.
00:18:00.641 --> 00:18:04.121
And when he conducted the red dragon in, it was famous as a chop house.
00:18:04.520 --> 00:18:04.851
Mr.
00:18:04.851 --> 00:18:07.820
Wright's acquaintance is extensive added Lancaster.
00:18:08.361 --> 00:18:09.111
If you see him.
00:18:09.770 --> 00:18:11.480
He may know something about the murdered man.
00:18:11.780 --> 00:18:15.500
If the man spoke the truth, when he said that he used to stop here 20 years ago.
00:18:16.300 --> 00:18:16.631
Hmm.
00:18:17.290 --> 00:18:19.181
Well, I shall surely call upon Mr.
00:18:19.181 --> 00:18:21.030
Wright and ask him to take a look at the remains.
00:18:22.500 --> 00:18:25.471
At this moment, Carter felt a heavy hand laid upon a shoulder.
00:18:25.951 --> 00:18:29.941
He turned around and be held the captain of the precinct who had just arrived.
00:18:30.641 --> 00:18:31.901
I am glad to see you, Mr.
00:18:31.901 --> 00:18:32.381
Carter.
00:18:32.800 --> 00:18:33.971
The officer exclaimed.
00:18:34.601 --> 00:18:35.740
You can help us in this.
00:18:35.921 --> 00:18:38.651
And as usual, I suppose you have gleaned considerable information.
00:18:39.760 --> 00:18:40.151
Hmm.
00:18:40.480 --> 00:18:41.590
I have found very little.
00:18:41.830 --> 00:18:42.941
The detective replied.
00:18:43.590 --> 00:18:44.461
Will you help us?
00:18:45.391 --> 00:18:45.901
Certainly.
00:18:47.340 --> 00:18:48.810
Ah, my mind is relieved.
00:18:49.230 --> 00:18:51.000
I hope you'll take full charge of the case.
00:18:51.750 --> 00:18:52.830
What about headquarters?
00:18:53.461 --> 00:18:54.391
I'll take care of that.
00:18:55.020 --> 00:18:57.990
While you have charge the people that headquarters will not interfere.
00:18:59.101 --> 00:19:00.361
Have you sent out on the alarm.
00:19:00.901 --> 00:19:01.441
Yes.
00:19:02.280 --> 00:19:04.861
Well, Let us go up to the attic room then.
00:19:05.490 --> 00:19:07.830
And request your men to keep everyone downstairs.
00:19:08.851 --> 00:19:09.391
I'll do that.
00:19:10.050 --> 00:19:12.391
The police captain issued his instructions to his men.
00:19:12.691 --> 00:19:17.871
And then he and Carter proceeded upstairs to the attic room in which the body of the victim lay.
00:19:18.861 --> 00:19:23.661
The captain stood out in the hall on the threshold while the detective entered the room.
00:19:24.471 --> 00:19:29.361
Carter stepped up to the side of the bed and scrutinized the face of the victim closely in silence.
00:19:30.221 --> 00:19:32.381
His throat was cut while he slept.
00:19:32.951 --> 00:19:34.840
Nick remarked looking towards the captain.
00:19:35.171 --> 00:19:38.260
Do you see any sign of the weapon with which the crime was committed?
00:19:38.681 --> 00:19:39.851
The police official asked.
00:19:40.721 --> 00:19:41.320
Not yet.
00:19:42.050 --> 00:19:44.931
Carter turned around and commenced to inspect the room.
00:19:45.560 --> 00:19:49.520
For nearly 15 minutes, he was engaged in the work without uttering a word.
00:19:50.121 --> 00:19:52.730
The police captain watched him with close attention.
00:19:53.721 --> 00:19:58.520
The detective went over the ground with the avidity of a sleuth hound, scenting for a trail.
00:19:59.181 --> 00:20:06.230
Every nook and corner of the apartment was inspected until the detective stood by the window, the sash of which was raised.
00:20:06.800 --> 00:20:09.681
He looked at the sill and then uttered an exclamation.
00:20:10.361 --> 00:20:10.931
What is it?
00:20:11.260 --> 00:20:14.471
The police captain asked, entering the room and stepping up to Carter side.
00:20:15.010 --> 00:20:15.641
See here.
00:20:16.181 --> 00:20:21.530
The detective replied pointing with his forefinger, to the stains upon the window sale and the lower part of the sash.
00:20:22.121 --> 00:20:24.070
Here are imprints of bloody fingers.
00:20:24.431 --> 00:20:29.441
The murder after he committed the crime, came over to this window and raised the sash.
00:20:29.891 --> 00:20:32.171
And here are bloody tracks on the outside.
00:20:32.351 --> 00:20:32.711
Look.
00:20:33.191 --> 00:20:35.980
There are imprints of shoes in the snow, across the roof.
00:20:36.310 --> 00:20:37.901
They lead from here to the edge.
00:20:38.230 --> 00:20:40.361
The murderer escaped this way.
00:20:40.961 --> 00:20:41.411
Wait here.
00:20:42.431 --> 00:20:43.300
What are you going to do?
00:20:43.931 --> 00:20:44.500
You will see.
00:20:45.941 --> 00:20:53.861
Carter crawled out of the window onto the roof and followed the tracks in the snow until he came to the edge of the roof where he halted and looked over.
00:20:54.611 --> 00:20:56.800
They're attached to the side of the house.
00:20:57.010 --> 00:21:01.121
He beheld an iron ladder leading from the roof down to the yard.
00:21:01.871 --> 00:21:05.651
Still he saw nothing of the weapon with which the crime had been committed.
00:21:06.550 --> 00:21:07.391
There was no doubt.
00:21:07.391 --> 00:21:10.300
Now in his mind about the assassin, having escaped by the roof.
00:21:10.840 --> 00:21:16.320
He returned to the room and gave the captain an accurate, but brief account of what he had discovered.
00:21:16.971 --> 00:21:24.471
This leads me to think that the murderer possessed some knowledge of this house, the police, captain remarked, after he had listened to what the detective had to say.
00:21:25.211 --> 00:21:25.750
Probably.
00:21:26.381 --> 00:21:27.161
Carter rejoined.
00:21:27.550 --> 00:21:30.191
And then for a time he lapsed into deep thought.
00:21:31.000 --> 00:21:32.711
The captain was also silent.
00:21:33.580 --> 00:21:37.030
Nick's eyes wandered around the room and he bit his lips.
00:21:37.750 --> 00:21:40.480
Upon his face, there was a strained expression.
00:21:41.141 --> 00:21:44.201
One could tell that he was following some train of thought.
00:21:45.161 --> 00:21:48.191
The pupils of his eyes blazed brilliantly.
00:21:48.851 --> 00:21:52.750
Minute after minute past, and still he did not speak.
00:21:53.441 --> 00:21:55.451
Patiently his companion waited.
00:21:56.131 --> 00:22:01.500
Carter's eyes rested upon the clothing of the victim, which was lying on a chair near the bed.
00:22:01.740 --> 00:22:02.820
In a corner of the room.
00:22:03.330 --> 00:22:05.310
It was in a confused heap.
00:22:06.121 --> 00:22:07.500
The detective step forward.
00:22:07.951 --> 00:22:11.550
We have overlooked these, he exclaimed pointing to the clothes.
00:22:12.090 --> 00:22:13.290
I was just looking at them.
00:22:13.590 --> 00:22:14.790
The police, captain remarked.
00:22:15.211 --> 00:22:17.851
It seems to me that they must have been disturbed by the murderer.
00:22:18.480 --> 00:22:19.111
They were.
00:22:19.651 --> 00:22:23.520
Carter rejoined holding up the dead man's vest for the police captain to inspect.
00:22:24.181 --> 00:22:27.451
There are bloodstains upon this and the other garments.
00:22:28.320 --> 00:22:29.250
Search the pockets.
00:22:29.820 --> 00:22:32.881
For some minutes, the detective was engaged in making the search.
00:22:33.330 --> 00:22:35.221
When he finished, he looked at the captain.
00:22:36.040 --> 00:22:36.490
Nothing.
00:22:37.361 --> 00:22:38.171
He said tersely.
00:22:39.131 --> 00:22:40.661
The murder secured, everything.
00:22:40.780 --> 00:22:43.451
The police captain rejoined in a tone of disappointment.
00:22:43.931 --> 00:22:47.560
He has left, not a scrap of paper by which the dead man could be identified.
00:22:48.820 --> 00:22:49.691
Everything is gone.
00:22:50.530 --> 00:22:51.131
Yes.
00:22:51.461 --> 00:22:52.151
It's too bad.
00:22:53.351 --> 00:22:55.361
Yes, but I have made a discovery.
00:22:56.040 --> 00:22:56.681
A discovery.
00:22:56.711 --> 00:22:57.191
What is it?
00:22:58.151 --> 00:23:00.040
These are prison clothes.
00:23:00.340 --> 00:23:01.181
They are new.
00:23:01.631 --> 00:23:02.770
What are you sure?
00:23:03.161 --> 00:23:04.000
I am positive.
00:23:04.270 --> 00:23:06.250
They were made in sing, sing prison.
00:23:07.121 --> 00:23:08.171
And what is your conclusion?
00:23:08.951 --> 00:23:12.250
This murdered man was recently released from state's prison.
00:23:12.851 --> 00:23:14.740
Perhaps the motive for the crime was revenge.
00:23:15.520 --> 00:23:15.971
Hm.
00:23:16.211 --> 00:23:16.810
Maybe.
00:23:17.411 --> 00:23:24.230
And still he may have been murdered because he possessed information by which someone was afraid would be divulged.
00:23:25.820 --> 00:23:26.861
Yup, that maybe it.
00:23:27.760 --> 00:23:29.861
In one way, this discovery is important.
00:23:31.030 --> 00:23:32.830
And you really think this man was a convict.
00:23:33.520 --> 00:23:34.000
I do.
00:23:34.750 --> 00:23:39.401
If he were not a release convict, he would not have worn clothing made expressly for the convicts.
00:23:40.451 --> 00:23:42.101
Well, he may have purchased them from one.
00:23:43.570 --> 00:23:46.901
That is so, but still, I think he did not.
00:23:47.621 --> 00:23:48.550
Well, there is one clue.
00:23:48.550 --> 00:23:49.000
Anyway.
00:23:49.661 --> 00:23:50.230
Yes.
00:23:50.881 --> 00:23:52.260
Well, let's go downstairs.
00:23:53.310 --> 00:23:54.181
They left the room.
00:23:54.711 --> 00:23:56.780
Carter closed and locked the door.
00:23:57.800 --> 00:24:04.221
On the way downstairs, the detective inspected the steps, but he found nothing which would throw any light upon the mystery.
00:24:04.851 --> 00:24:08.060
There were no tracks except those in the snow, on the roof.
00:24:08.721 --> 00:24:13.461
The leading question in his mind was how the murderer had entered the house.
00:24:14.300 --> 00:24:16.401
After he had returned to the bar room.
00:24:16.701 --> 00:24:18.740
He called the bartender aside and asked.
00:24:18.931 --> 00:24:22.441
Do you remember if anyone came in after the old man retired?
00:24:23.050 --> 00:24:23.800
Yes I do.
00:24:23.800 --> 00:24:25.181
Now, now that I come to think of it.
00:24:25.431 --> 00:24:27.740
The bartender exclaimed with considerable animation.
00:24:28.441 --> 00:24:31.010
A tall man, enter just as the old man left the room.
00:24:31.340 --> 00:24:33.621
He wore a long Ulster and a slouch hat.
00:24:34.101 --> 00:24:35.000
This man, sir.
00:24:35.270 --> 00:24:38.601
Stepped up to the bar and called for whiskey, which I served him.
00:24:39.201 --> 00:24:41.631
He took a seat at a table near the whole door.
00:24:42.230 --> 00:24:46.191
I was busy supplying orders to the other customers, and I did not pay any attention to them.
00:24:46.820 --> 00:24:47.990
When I came to close up.
00:24:48.381 --> 00:24:48.951
He was gone.
00:24:49.391 --> 00:24:51.550
When he went out, I don't know.
00:24:51.971 --> 00:24:55.300
But he may have left while I was serving drinks at some of the other tables.
00:24:55.951 --> 00:24:59.101
Would you know, the man, if you should see him again, inquire the detective.
00:25:00.181 --> 00:25:02.070
I can not tell whether I would or not.
00:25:02.641 --> 00:25:03.840
Are you able to describe him?
00:25:04.891 --> 00:25:06.211
I should think he was about.
00:25:06.810 --> 00:25:11.490
Uh, 45 or 50 years old, his, his face was covered with a heavy brown beard.
00:25:12.030 --> 00:25:14.310
His eyes were black, restless and penetrating.
00:25:15.721 --> 00:25:17.040
That is all I can remember about him.
00:25:17.611 --> 00:25:19.500
I didn't pay particular attention to him.
00:25:20.201 --> 00:25:23.201
Who occupied the room next to the one in which the man was murdered.
00:25:24.101 --> 00:25:24.641
I did.
00:25:25.510 --> 00:25:26.800
And what time did you retire?
00:25:27.550 --> 00:25:31.151
Uh, it was probably about half past one.
00:25:31.151 --> 00:25:31.570
O'clock.
00:25:32.260 --> 00:25:33.611
As I was about to enter my room.
00:25:33.611 --> 00:25:36.191
I noticed that a light was burning in the old man's room.
00:25:36.820 --> 00:25:40.691
I thought at the time that he had not yet retired, but I didn't hear him make any noise.
00:25:41.046 --> 00:25:43.476
You were not awakened during the night.
00:25:44.435 --> 00:25:44.826
No.
00:25:45.756 --> 00:25:46.836
Are you a sound sleeper?
00:25:47.286 --> 00:25:47.855
I am.
00:25:48.435 --> 00:25:49.486
What time did you get up?
00:25:50.375 --> 00:25:52.486
'Bout half past eight o'clock.
00:25:53.506 --> 00:25:55.125
Carter went out into the backyard.
00:25:55.726 --> 00:26:05.316
There he found footprints in the snow, leading from the foot of the ladder over to a gate in the fence, which opened to an alley running along between the yards into Hudson street.
00:26:05.855 --> 00:26:07.715
The trail was plain and distinct.
00:26:08.615 --> 00:26:11.826
The detective followed it until it ended on Hudson street.
00:26:12.576 --> 00:26:17.945
Then he returned to the yard where he made a search for the weapon, thinking the assassin might've thrown it away.
00:26:18.786 --> 00:26:21.246
But there was no trace of it to be found.
00:26:21.905 --> 00:26:23.615
Carter went back into the bar room.
00:26:24.336 --> 00:26:27.546
The coroner had arrived and was preparing to take charge for the body.
00:26:28.205 --> 00:26:31.175
The detective hurried across the street to the cosmopolitan hotel.
00:26:31.476 --> 00:26:32.766
And ask to see Mr.
00:26:32.766 --> 00:26:35.226
Wright, the former proprietor of the red dragon in.
00:26:36.185 --> 00:26:36.516
Mr.
00:26:36.516 --> 00:26:36.846
Wright.
00:26:37.236 --> 00:26:42.816
Was a portly old gentlemen with a large florid jovial face and received the detective instantly.
00:26:43.445 --> 00:26:45.905
He listened attentively to what Carter had to say.
00:26:46.266 --> 00:26:51.365
And he complied with his request to accompany him over to the Inn and view the remains of the victim.
00:26:51.996 --> 00:26:54.365
If that man spoke the truth, Mr.
00:26:54.365 --> 00:26:57.276
Wright remarked as he and the detective left the hotel.
00:26:57.816 --> 00:26:59.976
Then I may be able to identify the body.
00:27:01.776 --> 00:27:03.965
Who is the mysterious old man?
00:27:04.326 --> 00:27:10.536
And exactly who killed him and how did this person manage to do the deed without being seen?
00:27:11.016 --> 00:27:20.096
The answer to these questions and more will be answered in upcoming episodes of toying with fate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
00:27:21.976 --> 00:27:25.125
Well, friends that concludes this week's exciting episode.
00:27:25.665 --> 00:27:26.296
Fair warning.
00:27:26.296 --> 00:27:27.736
Do you faithful listeners out there?
00:27:28.006 --> 00:27:28.425
I will.
00:27:28.425 --> 00:27:31.125
More than likely stay in this genre for some time.
00:27:31.846 --> 00:27:42.226
Once again, I'd like to remind you that if you like the show, why not leave a review and, or a rating on your listening app, like apple podcast, good pods or pod chaser.
00:27:42.645 --> 00:27:44.986
And if you really like the show.
00:27:45.105 --> 00:27:48.135
Please support the show by becoming a monthly supporter.
00:27:48.346 --> 00:27:50.236
Using my, buy me a coffee page.
00:27:50.596 --> 00:27:56.925
It's the same idea as Patrion, but a lot more user-friendly and several more options that I'm able to offer you.
00:27:57.766 --> 00:27:59.086
I also have a blog on that.
00:27:59.086 --> 00:28:08.346
Buy me a coffee page where I will give more background information on story papers, dime novels, public domain stories that I find interesting and upcoming podcasts.
00:28:08.945 --> 00:28:09.455
Okay.
00:28:10.086 --> 00:28:12.816
Well, as usual I've rambled long enough.
00:28:13.385 --> 00:28:14.556
As always my friends.
00:28:14.915 --> 00:28:15.935
Thanks for listening.
00:28:16.205 --> 00:28:17.945
Keep sharing the stories.
00:28:18.246 --> 00:28:19.385
And B.
00:28:19.476 --> 00:28:20.465
A good human.
00:28:20.915 --> 00:28:22.086
Bye for now.
00:00:00.655 --> 00:00:01.375
Hi friends.
00:00:01.675 --> 00:00:05.905
And welcome once again to another episode of forward into the past.
00:00:06.504 --> 00:00:08.785
I am JC Rede, your host and narrator.
00:00:09.054 --> 00:00:17.004
And today we're delving back into the world of Nick Carter, the dashing detective from turn of the 20th century, New York.
00:00:17.905 --> 00:00:23.964
Nick Carter, as you now may know, is one of the most iconic detectives of American literature.
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He's the protagonist of the popular dime novels that were published in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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The character was realized by John R Correale, but it was the writer, Frederick van Rens layer day that popularized the series.
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Nick Carter first appeared in a story entitled.
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The old detectives pupil in 1886.
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From then on the character became a regular feature in the detective genre, appearing in hundreds of story papers and dime novels over several decades.
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The Nick Carter character was a departure from the typical detective characters of the time.
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While other detectives were portrayed as middle-aged men with a lot of experience.
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Nick Carter was a young and dashing detective in his twenties.
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He was handsome, intelligent, and highly skilled in martial arts and firearms.
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He was also a master of disguise often using different personas to infiltrate criminal organizations.
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The Nick Carter series was immensely popular during its heyday.
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The story paper exploits were serialized in dime novels and readers eagerly awaited.
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The next installment.
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The series spawned numerous imitations and soon other publishers were turning out their own detective series.
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But here at forward into the past, we have the original.
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Today, we begin a tale that was written way back in 1903, entitled toying with fate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
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Toying with fate.
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Or Nick Carter's narrow shave by Nicholas Carter.
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Chapter one.
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The mysterious old man.
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Move on old man and go home.
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It was the stern voice of one of new York's finest policemen that uttered those words.
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Home.
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I wonder where that is.
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Muttered the old man to whom the policemen had spoken, and a shutter ran through his frame.
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As he slowly moved down the street.
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As he reached the corner near old St.
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John's church on Varick street.
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He paused, rubbed his eyes and gazed dreamily about him.
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For some time before the policemen had addressed him, he had been standing inside the church, looking through the railings into the church yard.
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His form was bent by decrepitude and sorrow.
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And his hair was as white as the flaky snow, that clung to the steeple of the old church.
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The bells of which had just sounded the knell of the dying year.
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The old man only halted on the corner for a minute.
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And then crossing beach street.
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He shuffled along until he reached the center of the block, where he came to a standstill in front of an old fashioned house which was unoccupied.
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Then as if a faintness had come over him, he grasped the rusty iron railing to prevent himself falling to the ground.
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And he closed his eyes as though the sight of the snow covered houses was too much for him.
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The policemen had followed him at a distance.
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And it was watching him from where he was standing on the corner.
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Poor devil mutter the guardian of the peace as he swung his nightstick back and forth.
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I wonder who he is.
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He seems weak.
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Perhaps at one time he amounted to something.
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God saved me from ever coming to his condition.
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I wonder why he stands so long in front of that old empty house, which has been closed for 20 years, to my knowledge.
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I'll watch them awhile, but I won't molest him.
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Poor devil.
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As the policeman concluded his soliloquy.
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The old man straightened up and walked up to the door of the house, the old knocker on which he caught hold of and gave it a wrap.
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But suddenly as if struck by some painful recollection, his hand fell to a side and he staggered back to the middle of the sidewalk.
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Strange.
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The policemen ejaculated, noting this action.
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Perhaps he lived there at one time.
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The old man looked up at the house at which he gazed long and intently.
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Then suddenly arousing himself.
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He ambled back to the corner, stopping near the policemen.
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He looked confusedly around him from the left to the right.
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And the policemen gazed at him closely, but spoke, not a word.
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On his part.
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He did not seem to see the man in uniform.
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He stood bewildered appearing, not to know which way to turn.
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Why don't you go home old, man.
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The policeman asked this time in a softened tone of voice.
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Uh, home.
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The old fellow ejaculated his voice, like a wail, a heartbroken sob.
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Home.
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Where is it?
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The Lord bless you, Matt.
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How can I tell you if you can't tell yourself?
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20 years ago, 20 years behind darkened walls.
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And this.
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He muttered the words in such a, forlorn tone that the policemen stared at him.
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Your brain is turned old, gentlemen.
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The old man laughed and looked up into his questioners face with a quizzical expression.
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My.
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Brain is clear.
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My friend.
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He replied in a clear, harsh tone.
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I have come from a prison.
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The world is strangely altered since I was in it before.
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In it before.
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Why, what do you mean.
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I suppose you will try and persuade me that you have been dead and have risen from the grave.
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Figuratively speaking.
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I have, I.
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Have been dead to the world in prison.
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At sing, sing.
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Mark me well, Sing sing prison for 20 years.
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Today I was released.
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See me now.
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I am old decrepit, hardly able to walk.
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Once I stood erect.
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My hair was as black as the Raven's wing.
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And now.
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Oh, look at me.
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a wreck without home or friends.
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Wife.
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Children all gone.
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I have never seen, nor heard of them since the day I was taken out of yonder house as a prisoner by the unjust hardened, cruel decree of so called court of justice.
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20 years.
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Uh, prisoner buried alive as it were.
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You had committed a crime.
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No.
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I was innocent.
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But powerful conspirators plotted against me.
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The evidence was perjured and I.
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I.
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Was entombed.
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You say you lived in yonder house 20 years ago.
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Yes.
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And no men carried his head higher than I did.
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I was rich.
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But.
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What is the use of rehearsing those things to a stranger?
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Hardened as you are by association with crime, you would not believe my story.
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You would think that I was romancing?
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Oh, things have sadly changed in this neighborhood.
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You may bet they have.
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Once.
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All these houses were occupied by rich people.
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But today.
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They all the abodes of.
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Of the poor and the outcast.
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What is your name, sir?
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My name.
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It matters not good night.
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Well, well, keep your secret old man.
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God bless you may this new year bring you happiness.
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Ah, happiness.
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I shall never know that again.
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Good night again.
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He moved off slowly and the policemen watched him until he turned the corner into west Broadway.
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When he proceeded to patrol his beat.
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As the policemen moved away.
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Uh, dark forum came out of a nearby doorway and hurried around the corner.
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The man was tall.
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He wore a long Ulster with the collar turned up around his neck and a slouch hat that was pulled down over his eyes.
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He followed closely in the old man's trail.
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The old man halted several times.
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And as he did, so his form seemed to lose its decrepitude.
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As the light from the street lamps shown upon his face.
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It could be seen that his eyes glared like two living Coles.
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He threw his hand aloft.
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And so fierce and startling was the action that the man who was following him, halted and shrank back for an instant.
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As if he had been struck.
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Vengeance the old man hissed, and then he started on again.
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The street was deserted save by the old man and the man who was following him.
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The former walked on, looking up at the tall warehouses and store buildings, muttering to himself.
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More than once he put his hand up to his head and gazed about in a bewildered manner.
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His limbs shook under him, for a long time, had passed since they had been used to such exertion.
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The fresh air came.
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So strangely upon him that he panted for breath.
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Suddenly he halted in front of an old fashioned three story brick building near chamber street.
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Uh, beacon shaped red lamp was burning over the doorway.
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And upon the front pane of glass was painted.
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The red dragon in established by William sill, 1776.
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It was an old landmark in the neighborhood.
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And it had always been a hot story.
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In revolutionary times it was a post Roadhouse and was famous as the headquarters of many of the British officers.
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During later days, it became the resort.
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At the Noonday hour of many of new York's most stayed and solid merchants whose places of business were in the vicinity.
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At this time.
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The ground floor was occupied by a man who ran a saloon and restaurant.
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And who rented out the upstairs rooms to transient lodgers.
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No improvements have been made about the place.
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And it stood just as it did when it was conducted by its original owner.
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As the old man paused in front of the end.
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The sound of voices and the clinking of glasses came from within.
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He walked up to the door and opened it.
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Then he stepped into the saloon, staggered up to the bar and in a low tone, ordered a glass of toddy, which was supplied to him.
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A number of men were seated at the tables drinking, and none of them paid any attention to the newcomer.
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Who drank his toddy while standing and leaning against the bar.
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The old man placed his empty glass back upon the counter and facing the bartender said.
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I want a room for the night.
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There is only one empty.
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The bartender replied.
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It is in the attic.
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That will answer my purpose.
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It will cost you$1.
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The old man drew purse out of his pocket.
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Took out the amount and handed it to the bartender who asked.
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Do you want to retire now?
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I do.
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The old man answered.
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I will show you the way up.
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That won't be necessary.
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I am familiar with every room in the house.
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Many of the time I have stopped here in other days.
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If you will tell me which room I am to occupy, I will go up to it.
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The second room in the back part of the attic on the left of the stairway is the one.
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You will find a lamp on the table in the hall of the second floor.
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All right.
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The old man left the room while the bartender gazed after him with curiosity.
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He climbed the stairway and reach the second floor.
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Where he found the lamp.
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And then proceeded upstairs to the attic room.
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An hour after he retired, the house was silent.
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All the midnight revelers having gone home and the bartender having closed up the saloon.
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New year's day, dawned bright and clear.
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The proprietor of the red dragon in opened the bar room and at nine o'clock.
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The bartender came downstairs.
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For a time, the two men stood talking.
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There were no customers in the place.
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At last, the bartender asked the proprietor.
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If he had seen anything of the strange old man who had come in after midnight.
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The proprietor.
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Said that the old man had not appeared.
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Did he request you to call him?
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He inquired.
00:12:53.168 --> 00:12:53.587
No.
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The bartender answered.
00:12:55.388 --> 00:12:57.398
Shall I go up and ask him if he wants breakfast.
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Yes.
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The bartender ascended to the attic.
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The door of the room, which the old man had been assigned to stood a jar.
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The man knocked, but there was no answer.
00:13:10.128 --> 00:13:12.227
He pounded again and shouted still.
00:13:12.227 --> 00:13:12.918
No answer.
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Finally, the man pushed the door open.
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A terrible site, met his gaze.
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Stretched out upon the bed.
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He beheld the old man with his throat, cut from ear to ear.
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His hands were folded across his breast.
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And he was covered by the coverlet of the bed.
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Evidently.
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There had been no struggle.
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The bartender uttered a cry of alarm, but he did not enter the room.
00:13:41.028 --> 00:13:47.118
As soon as he recovered from his surprise, he dashed off downstairs crying murder at the top of his voice.
00:13:47.768 --> 00:13:53.768
Instantly the house was aroused and in a short time, a great crowd congregated in the street.
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In front of the door.
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Chapter two.
00:13:57.457 --> 00:13:58.717
Searching for clues.
00:13:59.717 --> 00:14:11.597
Early on new year's morning, Nicholas Carter, the famous detective arrived in Jersey city on a train from Chicago, where he had been investigating a diamond case, which he had closed up successfully.
00:14:12.408 --> 00:14:16.788
Danny his chauffer met him at the station with his powerful touring car.
00:14:16.900 --> 00:14:22.331
And in a few minutes, they were crossing the Hudson river on the downtown ferry over to chambers street.
00:14:23.201 --> 00:14:27.431
They had just landed and were beginning to get headway along that thoroughfare.
00:14:27.791 --> 00:14:31.480
When their attention was attracted by a loud commotion in the street.
00:14:32.471 --> 00:14:39.030
Leaning over Carter be held the crowd congregating in front of the red dragon Inn, which was almost opposite.
00:14:39.571 --> 00:14:41.971
He heard the cries of murder.
00:14:42.671 --> 00:14:45.100
Instantly the veterans energies were aroused.
00:14:45.671 --> 00:14:49.510
He forgot all about his not having had breakfast and springing out.
00:14:49.780 --> 00:14:53.921
He pushed his way through the crowd and entered the bar room of the red dragon in.
00:14:54.821 --> 00:14:59.620
There he found the proprietor pacing up and down in a state of nervous excitement.
00:15:00.270 --> 00:15:01.811
A policemen was also there.
00:15:02.081 --> 00:15:04.541
And to him, Nick applied for information.
00:15:05.240 --> 00:15:06.770
I can't make head nor tail of it.
00:15:07.280 --> 00:15:09.260
The policemen replied to Carter's inquiry.
00:15:10.071 --> 00:15:12.051
I've sent word to the police station, Mr.
00:15:12.051 --> 00:15:12.410
Carter.
00:15:12.801 --> 00:15:14.811
And I am expecting the captain every minute.
00:15:15.510 --> 00:15:16.500
Have you been upstairs?
00:15:17.400 --> 00:15:20.431
Now sir, I thought it best to wait until the captain arrived.
00:15:20.990 --> 00:15:21.951
Where is the bartender.
00:15:22.610 --> 00:15:23.541
Standing over there.
00:15:24.201 --> 00:15:26.990
And the policemen pointed to the man who is leaning against the bar.
00:15:27.801 --> 00:15:30.321
Carter stepped up to the bartender and asked.
00:15:30.721 --> 00:15:31.441
What is your name?
00:15:32.041 --> 00:15:32.850
George Terry.
00:15:33.071 --> 00:15:34.061
The bartender answered.
00:15:34.681 --> 00:15:35.941
How long have you been employed here?
00:15:36.581 --> 00:15:37.360
Three years.
00:15:37.941 --> 00:15:39.650
I believe you discovered the murder.
00:15:40.150 --> 00:15:40.870
Well, I did, sir.
00:15:41.471 --> 00:15:42.130
At what time?
00:15:42.730 --> 00:15:44.380
About 20 minutes ago.
00:15:44.880 --> 00:15:45.541
Do you know, the man.
00:15:46.380 --> 00:15:48.061
No, sir, he's a stranger to me.
00:15:48.660 --> 00:15:49.410
What's his name?
00:15:50.701 --> 00:15:51.990
I forgot to ask him.
00:15:52.490 --> 00:15:53.541
Don't you keep a register.
00:15:53.990 --> 00:15:54.441
No, sir.
00:15:54.951 --> 00:15:56.150
What time did the man arrive?
00:15:56.711 --> 00:15:57.821
Shortly after midnight.
00:15:58.421 --> 00:15:59.860
Did he have any luggage?
00:16:00.311 --> 00:16:00.880
No, sir.
00:16:01.500 --> 00:16:03.150
Tell me all about your conversation with him.
00:16:04.360 --> 00:16:07.061
As I said, he came in here shortly after midnight.
00:16:07.451 --> 00:16:10.360
He seemed weak and exhausted as he slipped up to the bar.
00:16:10.900 --> 00:16:13.541
He requested me to make him a hot toddy, which I did.
00:16:14.260 --> 00:16:15.581
After he'd finished his drink.
00:16:16.051 --> 00:16:18.221
He had asked me if I could let them have a room for the night.
00:16:18.520 --> 00:16:21.581
And I told him that the attic room was vacant and that he could have that.
00:16:22.181 --> 00:16:24.341
He paid the price out of a well-filled purse.
00:16:24.870 --> 00:16:26.910
I offered to conduct him up to the room, Mr.
00:16:26.910 --> 00:16:31.831
Carter but he said it would not be necessary because he was familiar with the house.
00:16:32.311 --> 00:16:35.880
He having stopped here on various occasions 20 years ago.
00:16:36.750 --> 00:16:37.711
He left the room.
00:16:38.221 --> 00:16:41.311
And that was the last I saw of him until I discovered his murdered body.
00:16:41.701 --> 00:16:45.181
When I went up to the attic to call him and opened the door of his room, he occupied.
00:16:45.880 --> 00:16:49.301
You heard him say he had stopped here on various occasions 20 years ago.
00:16:50.020 --> 00:16:50.530
Yes, sir.
00:16:51.260 --> 00:16:52.400
What's the proprietor's name.
00:16:53.120 --> 00:16:54.140
Henry Lancaster.
00:16:54.750 --> 00:16:56.280
How long has he conducted this place?
00:16:57.211 --> 00:16:57.961
10 years.
00:16:58.630 --> 00:17:00.941
Do you know the name of the man from whom he purchased it?
00:17:01.900 --> 00:17:03.041
No, sir, I do not.
00:17:04.211 --> 00:17:07.961
Has anyone been upstairs to the murdered man's room since you made the discovery?
00:17:08.800 --> 00:17:09.990
No one's been near it sir.
00:17:10.421 --> 00:17:11.441
Everything is undisturbed.
00:17:11.441 --> 00:17:12.431
I did not enter.
00:17:13.901 --> 00:17:15.941
Um, I will speak to the proprietor.
00:17:17.411 --> 00:17:18.520
Carter approached Mr.
00:17:18.520 --> 00:17:21.461
Lancaster, who was a middle-aged man of affable manners.
00:17:22.161 --> 00:17:25.760
The bartender informs me that you have conducted this place for about 10 years.
00:17:25.971 --> 00:17:27.830
The detective said, as he came up to Mr.
00:17:27.830 --> 00:17:28.401
Lancaster.
00:17:28.980 --> 00:17:30.780
I've owned it for nearly 11 years.
00:17:31.020 --> 00:17:31.320
Mr.
00:17:31.320 --> 00:17:32.221
Lancaster replied.
00:17:32.721 --> 00:17:33.861
From whom did you purchase it?
00:17:34.310 --> 00:17:37.911
A man named Peter Wright who had been the proprietor for nearly a quarter of a century.
00:17:38.500 --> 00:17:38.980
Is Mr.
00:17:38.980 --> 00:17:39.790
Wright alive.
00:17:40.871 --> 00:17:41.361
He is.
00:17:41.881 --> 00:17:42.840
Where does he reside?
00:17:43.510 --> 00:17:45.520
At the cosmopolitan hotel across the street.
00:17:45.881 --> 00:17:48.221
He's a bachelor and entirely alone in the world.
00:17:48.520 --> 00:17:50.020
All of his relatives having died.
00:17:50.621 --> 00:17:53.171
He's an Englishman by birth and, and a courtly old gentlemen.
00:17:53.830 --> 00:17:57.851
He has a moderate income to live on and he is enjoying himself in his declining years.
00:17:58.300 --> 00:18:00.191
All of the merchants of old New York knew him.
00:18:00.641 --> 00:18:04.121
And when he conducted the red dragon in, it was famous as a chop house.
00:18:04.520 --> 00:18:04.851
Mr.
00:18:04.851 --> 00:18:07.820
Wright's acquaintance is extensive added Lancaster.
00:18:08.361 --> 00:18:09.111
If you see him.
00:18:09.770 --> 00:18:11.480
He may know something about the murdered man.
00:18:11.780 --> 00:18:15.500
If the man spoke the truth, when he said that he used to stop here 20 years ago.
00:18:16.300 --> 00:18:16.631
Hmm.
00:18:17.290 --> 00:18:19.181
Well, I shall surely call upon Mr.
00:18:19.181 --> 00:18:21.030
Wright and ask him to take a look at the remains.
00:18:22.500 --> 00:18:25.471
At this moment, Carter felt a heavy hand laid upon a shoulder.
00:18:25.951 --> 00:18:29.941
He turned around and be held the captain of the precinct who had just arrived.
00:18:30.641 --> 00:18:31.901
I am glad to see you, Mr.
00:18:31.901 --> 00:18:32.381
Carter.
00:18:32.800 --> 00:18:33.971
The officer exclaimed.
00:18:34.601 --> 00:18:35.740
You can help us in this.
00:18:35.921 --> 00:18:38.651
And as usual, I suppose you have gleaned considerable information.
00:18:39.760 --> 00:18:40.151
Hmm.
00:18:40.480 --> 00:18:41.590
I have found very little.
00:18:41.830 --> 00:18:42.941
The detective replied.
00:18:43.590 --> 00:18:44.461
Will you help us?
00:18:45.391 --> 00:18:45.901
Certainly.
00:18:47.340 --> 00:18:48.810
Ah, my mind is relieved.
00:18:49.230 --> 00:18:51.000
I hope you'll take full charge of the case.
00:18:51.750 --> 00:18:52.830
What about headquarters?
00:18:53.461 --> 00:18:54.391
I'll take care of that.
00:18:55.020 --> 00:18:57.990
While you have charge the people that headquarters will not interfere.
00:18:59.101 --> 00:19:00.361
Have you sent out on the alarm.
00:19:00.901 --> 00:19:01.441
Yes.
00:19:02.280 --> 00:19:04.861
Well, Let us go up to the attic room then.
00:19:05.490 --> 00:19:07.830
And request your men to keep everyone downstairs.
00:19:08.851 --> 00:19:09.391
I'll do that.
00:19:10.050 --> 00:19:12.391
The police captain issued his instructions to his men.
00:19:12.691 --> 00:19:17.871
And then he and Carter proceeded upstairs to the attic room in which the body of the victim lay.
00:19:18.861 --> 00:19:23.661
The captain stood out in the hall on the threshold while the detective entered the room.
00:19:24.471 --> 00:19:29.361
Carter stepped up to the side of the bed and scrutinized the face of the victim closely in silence.
00:19:30.221 --> 00:19:32.381
His throat was cut while he slept.
00:19:32.951 --> 00:19:34.840
Nick remarked looking towards the captain.
00:19:35.171 --> 00:19:38.260
Do you see any sign of the weapon with which the crime was committed?
00:19:38.681 --> 00:19:39.851
The police official asked.
00:19:40.721 --> 00:19:41.320
Not yet.
00:19:42.050 --> 00:19:44.931
Carter turned around and commenced to inspect the room.
00:19:45.560 --> 00:19:49.520
For nearly 15 minutes, he was engaged in the work without uttering a word.
00:19:50.121 --> 00:19:52.730
The police captain watched him with close attention.
00:19:53.721 --> 00:19:58.520
The detective went over the ground with the avidity of a sleuth hound, scenting for a trail.
00:19:59.181 --> 00:20:06.230
Every nook and corner of the apartment was inspected until the detective stood by the window, the sash of which was raised.
00:20:06.800 --> 00:20:09.681
He looked at the sill and then uttered an exclamation.
00:20:10.361 --> 00:20:10.931
What is it?
00:20:11.260 --> 00:20:14.471
The police captain asked, entering the room and stepping up to Carter side.
00:20:15.010 --> 00:20:15.641
See here.
00:20:16.181 --> 00:20:21.530
The detective replied pointing with his forefinger, to the stains upon the window sale and the lower part of the sash.
00:20:22.121 --> 00:20:24.070
Here are imprints of bloody fingers.
00:20:24.431 --> 00:20:29.441
The murder after he committed the crime, came over to this window and raised the sash.
00:20:29.891 --> 00:20:32.171
And here are bloody tracks on the outside.
00:20:32.351 --> 00:20:32.711
Look.
00:20:33.191 --> 00:20:35.980
There are imprints of shoes in the snow, across the roof.
00:20:36.310 --> 00:20:37.901
They lead from here to the edge.
00:20:38.230 --> 00:20:40.361
The murderer escaped this way.
00:20:40.961 --> 00:20:41.411
Wait here.
00:20:42.431 --> 00:20:43.300
What are you going to do?
00:20:43.931 --> 00:20:44.500
You will see.
00:20:45.941 --> 00:20:53.861
Carter crawled out of the window onto the roof and followed the tracks in the snow until he came to the edge of the roof where he halted and looked over.
00:20:54.611 --> 00:20:56.800
They're attached to the side of the house.
00:20:57.010 --> 00:21:01.121
He beheld an iron ladder leading from the roof down to the yard.
00:21:01.871 --> 00:21:05.651
Still he saw nothing of the weapon with which the crime had been committed.
00:21:06.550 --> 00:21:07.391
There was no doubt.
00:21:07.391 --> 00:21:10.300
Now in his mind about the assassin, having escaped by the roof.
00:21:10.840 --> 00:21:16.320
He returned to the room and gave the captain an accurate, but brief account of what he had discovered.
00:21:16.971 --> 00:21:24.471
This leads me to think that the murderer possessed some knowledge of this house, the police, captain remarked, after he had listened to what the detective had to say.
00:21:25.211 --> 00:21:25.750
Probably.
00:21:26.381 --> 00:21:27.161
Carter rejoined.
00:21:27.550 --> 00:21:30.191
And then for a time he lapsed into deep thought.
00:21:31.000 --> 00:21:32.711
The captain was also silent.
00:21:33.580 --> 00:21:37.030
Nick's eyes wandered around the room and he bit his lips.
00:21:37.750 --> 00:21:40.480
Upon his face, there was a strained expression.
00:21:41.141 --> 00:21:44.201
One could tell that he was following some train of thought.
00:21:45.161 --> 00:21:48.191
The pupils of his eyes blazed brilliantly.
00:21:48.851 --> 00:21:52.750
Minute after minute past, and still he did not speak.
00:21:53.441 --> 00:21:55.451
Patiently his companion waited.
00:21:56.131 --> 00:22:01.500
Carter's eyes rested upon the clothing of the victim, which was lying on a chair near the bed.
00:22:01.740 --> 00:22:02.820
In a corner of the room.
00:22:03.330 --> 00:22:05.310
It was in a confused heap.
00:22:06.121 --> 00:22:07.500
The detective step forward.
00:22:07.951 --> 00:22:11.550
We have overlooked these, he exclaimed pointing to the clothes.
00:22:12.090 --> 00:22:13.290
I was just looking at them.
00:22:13.590 --> 00:22:14.790
The police, captain remarked.
00:22:15.211 --> 00:22:17.851
It seems to me that they must have been disturbed by the murderer.
00:22:18.480 --> 00:22:19.111
They were.
00:22:19.651 --> 00:22:23.520
Carter rejoined holding up the dead man's vest for the police captain to inspect.
00:22:24.181 --> 00:22:27.451
There are bloodstains upon this and the other garments.
00:22:28.320 --> 00:22:29.250
Search the pockets.
00:22:29.820 --> 00:22:32.881
For some minutes, the detective was engaged in making the search.
00:22:33.330 --> 00:22:35.221
When he finished, he looked at the captain.
00:22:36.040 --> 00:22:36.490
Nothing.
00:22:37.361 --> 00:22:38.171
He said tersely.
00:22:39.131 --> 00:22:40.661
The murder secured, everything.
00:22:40.780 --> 00:22:43.451
The police captain rejoined in a tone of disappointment.
00:22:43.931 --> 00:22:47.560
He has left, not a scrap of paper by which the dead man could be identified.
00:22:48.820 --> 00:22:49.691
Everything is gone.
00:22:50.530 --> 00:22:51.131
Yes.
00:22:51.461 --> 00:22:52.151
It's too bad.
00:22:53.351 --> 00:22:55.361
Yes, but I have made a discovery.
00:22:56.040 --> 00:22:56.681
A discovery.
00:22:56.711 --> 00:22:57.191
What is it?
00:22:58.151 --> 00:23:00.040
These are prison clothes.
00:23:00.340 --> 00:23:01.181
They are new.
00:23:01.631 --> 00:23:02.770
What are you sure?
00:23:03.161 --> 00:23:04.000
I am positive.
00:23:04.270 --> 00:23:06.250
They were made in sing, sing prison.
00:23:07.121 --> 00:23:08.171
And what is your conclusion?
00:23:08.951 --> 00:23:12.250
This murdered man was recently released from state's prison.
00:23:12.851 --> 00:23:14.740
Perhaps the motive for the crime was revenge.
00:23:15.520 --> 00:23:15.971
Hm.
00:23:16.211 --> 00:23:16.810
Maybe.
00:23:17.411 --> 00:23:24.230
And still he may have been murdered because he possessed information by which someone was afraid would be divulged.
00:23:25.820 --> 00:23:26.861
Yup, that maybe it.
00:23:27.760 --> 00:23:29.861
In one way, this discovery is important.
00:23:31.030 --> 00:23:32.830
And you really think this man was a convict.
00:23:33.520 --> 00:23:34.000
I do.
00:23:34.750 --> 00:23:39.401
If he were not a release convict, he would not have worn clothing made expressly for the convicts.
00:23:40.451 --> 00:23:42.101
Well, he may have purchased them from one.
00:23:43.570 --> 00:23:46.901
That is so, but still, I think he did not.
00:23:47.621 --> 00:23:48.550
Well, there is one clue.
00:23:48.550 --> 00:23:49.000
Anyway.
00:23:49.661 --> 00:23:50.230
Yes.
00:23:50.881 --> 00:23:52.260
Well, let's go downstairs.
00:23:53.310 --> 00:23:54.181
They left the room.
00:23:54.711 --> 00:23:56.780
Carter closed and locked the door.
00:23:57.800 --> 00:24:04.221
On the way downstairs, the detective inspected the steps, but he found nothing which would throw any light upon the mystery.
00:24:04.851 --> 00:24:08.060
There were no tracks except those in the snow, on the roof.
00:24:08.721 --> 00:24:13.461
The leading question in his mind was how the murderer had entered the house.
00:24:14.300 --> 00:24:16.401
After he had returned to the bar room.
00:24:16.701 --> 00:24:18.740
He called the bartender aside and asked.
00:24:18.931 --> 00:24:22.441
Do you remember if anyone came in after the old man retired?
00:24:23.050 --> 00:24:23.800
Yes I do.
00:24:23.800 --> 00:24:25.181
Now, now that I come to think of it.
00:24:25.431 --> 00:24:27.740
The bartender exclaimed with considerable animation.
00:24:28.441 --> 00:24:31.010
A tall man, enter just as the old man left the room.
00:24:31.340 --> 00:24:33.621
He wore a long Ulster and a slouch hat.
00:24:34.101 --> 00:24:35.000
This man, sir.
00:24:35.270 --> 00:24:38.601
Stepped up to the bar and called for whiskey, which I served him.
00:24:39.201 --> 00:24:41.631
He took a seat at a table near the whole door.
00:24:42.230 --> 00:24:46.191
I was busy supplying orders to the other customers, and I did not pay any attention to them.
00:24:46.820 --> 00:24:47.990
When I came to close up.
00:24:48.381 --> 00:24:48.951
He was gone.
00:24:49.391 --> 00:24:51.550
When he went out, I don't know.
00:24:51.971 --> 00:24:55.300
But he may have left while I was serving drinks at some of the other tables.
00:24:55.951 --> 00:24:59.101
Would you know, the man, if you should see him again, inquire the detective.
00:25:00.181 --> 00:25:02.070
I can not tell whether I would or not.
00:25:02.641 --> 00:25:03.840
Are you able to describe him?
00:25:04.891 --> 00:25:06.211
I should think he was about.
00:25:06.810 --> 00:25:11.490
Uh, 45 or 50 years old, his, his face was covered with a heavy brown beard.
00:25:12.030 --> 00:25:14.310
His eyes were black, restless and penetrating.
00:25:15.721 --> 00:25:17.040
That is all I can remember about him.
00:25:17.611 --> 00:25:19.500
I didn't pay particular attention to him.
00:25:20.201 --> 00:25:23.201
Who occupied the room next to the one in which the man was murdered.
00:25:24.101 --> 00:25:24.641
I did.
00:25:25.510 --> 00:25:26.800
And what time did you retire?
00:25:27.550 --> 00:25:31.151
Uh, it was probably about half past one.
00:25:31.151 --> 00:25:31.570
O'clock.
00:25:32.260 --> 00:25:33.611
As I was about to enter my room.
00:25:33.611 --> 00:25:36.191
I noticed that a light was burning in the old man's room.
00:25:36.820 --> 00:25:40.691
I thought at the time that he had not yet retired, but I didn't hear him make any noise.
00:25:41.046 --> 00:25:43.476
You were not awakened during the night.
00:25:44.435 --> 00:25:44.826
No.
00:25:45.756 --> 00:25:46.836
Are you a sound sleeper?
00:25:47.286 --> 00:25:47.855
I am.
00:25:48.435 --> 00:25:49.486
What time did you get up?
00:25:50.375 --> 00:25:52.486
'Bout half past eight o'clock.
00:25:53.506 --> 00:25:55.125
Carter went out into the backyard.
00:25:55.726 --> 00:26:05.316
There he found footprints in the snow, leading from the foot of the ladder over to a gate in the fence, which opened to an alley running along between the yards into Hudson street.
00:26:05.855 --> 00:26:07.715
The trail was plain and distinct.
00:26:08.615 --> 00:26:11.826
The detective followed it until it ended on Hudson street.
00:26:12.576 --> 00:26:17.945
Then he returned to the yard where he made a search for the weapon, thinking the assassin might've thrown it away.
00:26:18.786 --> 00:26:21.246
But there was no trace of it to be found.
00:26:21.905 --> 00:26:23.615
Carter went back into the bar room.
00:26:24.336 --> 00:26:27.546
The coroner had arrived and was preparing to take charge for the body.
00:26:28.205 --> 00:26:31.175
The detective hurried across the street to the cosmopolitan hotel.
00:26:31.476 --> 00:26:32.766
And ask to see Mr.
00:26:32.766 --> 00:26:35.226
Wright, the former proprietor of the red dragon in.
00:26:36.185 --> 00:26:36.516
Mr.
00:26:36.516 --> 00:26:36.846
Wright.
00:26:37.236 --> 00:26:42.816
Was a portly old gentlemen with a large florid jovial face and received the detective instantly.
00:26:43.445 --> 00:26:45.905
He listened attentively to what Carter had to say.
00:26:46.266 --> 00:26:51.365
And he complied with his request to accompany him over to the Inn and view the remains of the victim.
00:26:51.996 --> 00:26:54.365
If that man spoke the truth, Mr.
00:26:54.365 --> 00:26:57.276
Wright remarked as he and the detective left the hotel.
00:26:57.816 --> 00:26:59.976
Then I may be able to identify the body.
00:27:01.776 --> 00:27:03.965
Who is the mysterious old man?
00:27:04.326 --> 00:27:10.536
And exactly who killed him and how did this person manage to do the deed without being seen?
00:27:11.016 --> 00:27:20.096
The answer to these questions and more will be answered in upcoming episodes of toying with fate or Nick Carter's narrow shave.
00:27:21.976 --> 00:27:25.125
Well, friends that concludes this week's exciting episode.
00:27:25.665 --> 00:27:26.296
Fair warning.
00:27:26.296 --> 00:27:27.736
Do you faithful listeners out there?
00:27:28.006 --> 00:27:28.425
I will.
00:27:28.425 --> 00:27:31.125
More than likely stay in this genre for some time.
00:27:31.846 --> 00:27:42.226
Once again, I'd like to remind you that if you like the show, why not leave a review and, or a rating on your listening app, like apple podcast, good pods or pod chaser.
00:27:42.645 --> 00:27:44.986
And if you really like the show.
00:27:45.105 --> 00:27:48.135
Please support the show by becoming a monthly supporter.
00:27:48.346 --> 00:27:50.236
Using my, buy me a coffee page.
00:27:50.596 --> 00:27:56.925
It's the same idea as Patrion, but a lot more user-friendly and several more options that I'm able to offer you.
00:27:57.766 --> 00:27:59.086
I also have a blog on that.
00:27:59.086 --> 00:28:08.346
Buy me a coffee page where I will give more background information on story papers, dime novels, public domain stories that I find interesting and upcoming podcasts.
00:28:08.945 --> 00:28:09.455
Okay.
00:28:10.086 --> 00:28:12.816
Well, as usual I've rambled long enough.
00:28:13.385 --> 00:28:14.556
As always my friends.
00:28:14.915 --> 00:28:15.935
Thanks for listening.
00:28:16.205 --> 00:28:17.945
Keep sharing the stories.
00:28:18.246 --> 00:28:19.385
And B.
00:28:19.476 --> 00:28:20.465
A good human.
00:28:20.915 --> 00:28:22.086
Bye for now.
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