1 00:00:50,630 --> 00:00:52,564 [ Button Clicks ] 2 00:00:52,632 --> 00:00:55,931 [ Man On Tape ] Les, I'll tape a memo for you on the Bronson matter tomorrow. 3 00:00:56,002 --> 00:01:00,268 As far as that Delthorne Corporation suit is concerned, they've got me. 4 00:01:00,340 --> 00:01:02,399 As far as I can see, they're holding firm. 5 00:01:02,476 --> 00:01:05,912 They want $300,000, and they want delivery tomorrow night. 6 00:01:05,979 --> 00:01:09,676 [ Tape Rewinds, Stops ] 7 00:01:11,685 --> 00:01:13,619 They've got me. 8 00:02:00,500 --> 00:02:03,435 [ Sighs ] 9 00:02:04,671 --> 00:02:07,162 Oh, Leslie, I thought-- 10 00:02:07,240 --> 00:02:11,472 [ No Audible Sounds ] 11 00:03:12,606 --> 00:03:14,540 [ Trunk Lid Slams ] 12 00:03:30,657 --> 00:03:33,558 [ Footsteps Departing ] 13 00:03:33,627 --> 00:03:36,562 [ Engine Starts ] 14 00:03:58,451 --> 00:04:01,113 [ Motor Whirring ] 15 00:05:00,213 --> 00:05:03,205 [ Body Continues Tumbling ] 16 00:05:39,753 --> 00:05:42,153 [ Vehicle Approaching ] 17 00:06:06,279 --> 00:06:08,270 [ Sighs ] 18 00:06:18,124 --> 00:06:21,218 Hello, Pat? Leslie. 19 00:06:21,294 --> 00:06:24,229 Uh, listen, about our tennis date-- 20 00:06:24,297 --> 00:06:28,324 [ Laughs ] Yeah. No, I know. I've been very forgetful lately. 21 00:06:28,401 --> 00:06:33,202 Uh, Pat, please, call me at the office tomorrow at 1 2:1 5, sharp. 22 00:06:33,273 --> 00:06:39,075 j-Just say ""tennis,'' and I'll remember to put it on my office calendar. 23 00:06:39,145 --> 00:06:41,579 All right, Pat. Good-bye. 24 00:06:55,695 --> 00:06:57,686 [ Sighs ] 25 00:07:02,769 --> 00:07:05,260 [ Man ] When did you sustain these injuries, Mr. Crowell? 26 00:07:05,338 --> 00:07:09,172 This September 1 6, Friday, 8:30 in the evening. 27 00:07:09,242 --> 00:07:12,268 You were admitted to a hospital for emergency care on that night? 28 00:07:12,345 --> 00:07:16,042 Yes, I was. St.John's Hospital, Santa Monica. 29 00:07:16,116 --> 00:07:19,483 Your Honor, I'd like to introduce these hospital records as Exhibit ""A.'' 30 00:07:19,552 --> 00:07:23,318 Mr. Crowell, what was the extent of your injuries due to your fall? 31 00:07:23,389 --> 00:07:26,449 - My back was hurt real bad-- - Objection, Your Honor. 32 00:07:26,526 --> 00:07:29,962 The plaintiff is not competent to give expert medical testimony. 33 00:07:30,029 --> 00:07:32,930 Sustained. 34 00:07:34,000 --> 00:07:36,093 [ Man ] I would like to introduce Exhibit "B, '" 35 00:07:36,169 --> 00:07:38,933 a full doctor's report on the plaintiff's condition... 36 00:07:39,005 --> 00:07:43,738 showing damage to the lumbar region of the spine with concomitant nerve damage, 37 00:07:43,810 --> 00:07:47,109 resulting in partial paralysis to the left side of his body. 38 00:07:47,180 --> 00:07:51,549 Did you find out anything? No one's seen or heard from him since he left Phoenix. 39 00:07:51,618 --> 00:07:54,985 Did you check the hospitals? I've had Nancy calling all morning. Not a thing. 40 00:07:55,054 --> 00:07:57,648 What about the police? Zero. Shall we-- 41 00:07:57,724 --> 00:08:01,785 Let me think about it for a while. Objection-- irrelevant and immaterial. 42 00:08:01,861 --> 00:08:04,796 Sustained. The answer may go out. 43 00:08:04,864 --> 00:08:06,798 Shall we put out a missing persons report? 44 00:08:06,866 --> 00:08:09,130 I'll do it myself after lunch. 45 00:08:09,202 --> 00:08:11,932 How goes it here? We have a nice middle-class jury. 46 00:08:12,005 --> 00:08:17,238 They dislike the insurance companies second only to their distaste for working-class people. Your witness. 47 00:08:18,244 --> 00:08:20,439 [ Clears Throat ] 48 00:08:20,513 --> 00:08:25,348 - Mr. Crowell, you are a punch press operator, is that correct? - Yes. 49 00:08:25,418 --> 00:08:27,352 Have you ever been on welfare before? 50 00:08:27,420 --> 00:08:30,321 - Objection. - Sustained. 51 00:08:30,390 --> 00:08:35,157 That night that you fell down the stairs in the defendant's apartment house, 52 00:08:35,228 --> 00:08:37,355 where had you been prior to your accident? 53 00:08:37,430 --> 00:08:39,364 At a café across the street. 54 00:08:39,432 --> 00:08:44,028 In point of fact, Mr. Crowell, according to the bartender there, you had... 55 00:08:44,103 --> 00:08:49,632 at least three drinks and no dinner before you left the café and returned to your apartment. 56 00:08:49,709 --> 00:08:53,076 And not being able to see the stairwell steps properly, you fell. 57 00:08:53,146 --> 00:08:57,674 Objection, Your Honor. Counsel is testifying and assuming facts not in evidence. 58 00:08:57,750 --> 00:09:02,153 - The plaintiff alleges the stairs were improperly lit. - Although the plaintiff may well have been. 59 00:09:02,222 --> 00:09:04,156 - Objection, Your Honor. - [ Laughing ] 60 00:09:04,224 --> 00:09:06,488 Sustained. 61 00:09:11,464 --> 00:09:15,491 - [ Gavel Raps ] - Court will be recessed until 1:00. 62 00:09:18,838 --> 00:09:23,002 I've convinced my client to discuss a possible settlement. I'm sure you have. 63 00:09:23,076 --> 00:09:26,534 My office, 1 0 minutes? Mine, at 1 2:30. 64 00:09:27,747 --> 00:09:29,908 It looks good. Very good. 65 00:09:29,983 --> 00:09:33,180 I'll get your insurance company off the hook cheaply this time. 66 00:09:34,187 --> 00:09:36,121 I've been all over that building of yours, 67 00:09:36,189 --> 00:09:40,455 and you better start maintaining minimum safety standards, or, the next time, somebody may get killed. 68 00:09:53,273 --> 00:09:55,741 Thank you. Hi, Mrs. Williams. Michael. 69 00:09:55,808 --> 00:10:01,144 Have you heard anything? There's still no word from Mr. Williams. I've tried everywhere. 70 00:10:02,181 --> 00:10:05,116 Thank you, Nancy. Bring in your pad. 71 00:10:07,086 --> 00:10:10,613 [ Leslie ] We'd better outline a settlement. He'll be here soon. 72 00:10:13,026 --> 00:10:17,429 [ Sighs ] What time do you have, Michael? 1 2:1 5. 73 00:10:19,499 --> 00:10:22,161 Uh, Les, they're asking a hundred and fifty thousand. 74 00:10:22,235 --> 00:10:27,298 My guess is he'll say his client is ill and needs cash and offer to settle for half. 75 00:10:27,373 --> 00:10:32,777 We'll tell him that his client is losing and that he'll take what he can get-- which is nuisance value at $1 0,000. 76 00:10:32,845 --> 00:10:35,837 - That's hitting him pretty hard. - [ Phone Rings ] 77 00:10:35,915 --> 00:10:37,815 I'll get it. Yes? 78 00:10:37,884 --> 00:10:40,910 Les? One word: tennis. 79 00:10:40,987 --> 00:10:44,184 - Yes. - Don't forget. 80 00:10:45,558 --> 00:10:48,755 What? Who is this? Hello? 81 00:10:49,829 --> 00:10:51,456 Hello? 82 00:10:55,201 --> 00:10:58,398 - What is it? - You'd better call the police. 83 00:10:59,973 --> 00:11:03,465 That man on the phone said he's got my husband. 84 00:11:04,744 --> 00:11:08,475 [ Man ] I want men posted here and here. But keep them out of sight. 85 00:11:08,548 --> 00:11:11,676 I don't want a lot of worried neighbors calling the police every five minutes. 86 00:11:11,751 --> 00:11:14,015 Mr. Carlson. 87 00:11:14,087 --> 00:11:17,386 Hoffman, this is Carlson. We don't want any press leaks on this. 88 00:11:17,457 --> 00:11:19,823 I don't want to have to add up all the favors you owe me, 89 00:11:19,892 --> 00:11:21,860 and I'm sure you don't want me to either. 90 00:11:21,928 --> 00:11:23,862 Right. 91 00:11:23,930 --> 00:11:27,525 We'll stay out of the papers for the time being, Mrs. Williams. Thank you. 92 00:11:27,600 --> 00:11:30,569 Is that tap-in ready? No. Not quite yet, sir. 93 00:11:30,636 --> 00:11:35,164 We'll be able to monitor any phone calls that come in through this, Mrs. Williams. 94 00:11:35,241 --> 00:11:37,175 Will you be able to trace the calls? 95 00:11:37,243 --> 00:11:42,510 Maybe. Unfortunately, the kidnapper is usually smart enough to keep the call short so we won't have the time. 96 00:11:42,582 --> 00:11:45,016 But with this tape, we can make voiceprints at the lab. 97 00:11:45,084 --> 00:11:47,712 That sometimes gives us a lead on making identifications. 98 00:11:47,787 --> 00:11:52,815 There's something I have to ask you. I want you to be completely honest with me. Of course. 99 00:11:52,892 --> 00:11:57,420 After I pay the ransom, what are the chances of my getting my husband back? 100 00:11:57,497 --> 00:12:01,092 All right, I'll be honest with you, Mrs. Williams. There's no way of knowing. 101 00:12:01,167 --> 00:12:03,101 All we can do is hope for the best. 102 00:12:03,169 --> 00:12:06,036 We'll do everything we possibly can. Oh, of course you will. I know that. 103 00:12:06,105 --> 00:12:09,939 Look, Mrs. Williams. Let's try to take an optimistic point of view on this, hmm? 104 00:12:10,009 --> 00:12:13,206 He's probably just fine. You'll have him with you in another 2 4 hours. 105 00:12:13,279 --> 00:12:15,770 That's-- That's all I want. 106 00:12:15,848 --> 00:12:17,782 [ Phone Rings ] Excuse me. 107 00:12:23,723 --> 00:12:26,419 Carlson. Yes, I'll hold. 108 00:12:26,492 --> 00:12:30,121 [ Doorbell Chimes ] 109 00:12:34,000 --> 00:12:36,434 [ Sighs ] 110 00:12:36,502 --> 00:12:38,902 Uh, Mrs. Williams? Yes? 111 00:12:38,971 --> 00:12:40,939 Uh, Lieutenant Columbo, local police. 112 00:12:41,007 --> 00:12:44,033 I, uh, seem to have dropped my pen out here somewhere. 113 00:12:44,110 --> 00:12:46,101 just a minute. 114 00:12:49,482 --> 00:12:51,416 [ Sighs ] Would you like some help? 115 00:12:51,484 --> 00:12:56,319 Oh, no, that won't be necessary. Thank you very much. I'll-I'll just take another quick look, uh-- 116 00:12:56,389 --> 00:12:58,983 - I can get a flashlight. - Oh, really, don't bother. It's all right. 117 00:12:59,058 --> 00:13:01,117 I, uh-- I've got some matches. 118 00:13:01,194 --> 00:13:04,789 It's no trouble. Oh, really, it's really not that important. It's just a pen. 119 00:13:04,864 --> 00:13:07,128 You see, it was engraved. That was the only reason. 120 00:13:07,200 --> 00:13:09,760 But I'll buy another one, and I'll have that one engraved. 121 00:13:09,836 --> 00:13:12,304 You see, the pen itself was worthless, uh-- 122 00:13:12,371 --> 00:13:14,271 - Is that it? - Where? 123 00:13:14,340 --> 00:13:16,900 - There. - Oh. 124 00:13:16,976 --> 00:13:18,910 No. No? 125 00:13:18,978 --> 00:13:22,072 [ Man ] Is everything all right, Mrs. Williams? Lt. Columbo's lost his pen. 126 00:13:22,148 --> 00:13:24,378 Oh, listen, don't bother him about it, uh-- 127 00:13:24,450 --> 00:13:27,942 Lt. Columbo? Oh, yes. How do you do? How are you? 128 00:13:28,020 --> 00:13:31,615 Uh, Mrs. Williams, I think that, uh, we can forget about the pen now. 129 00:13:31,691 --> 00:13:33,625 Would you like me to get you a flashlight? I offered him-- 130 00:13:33,693 --> 00:13:35,820 No, really, it's not that important. That last call was from the police. 131 00:13:35,895 --> 00:13:38,489 They found your husband's car. 132 00:13:43,269 --> 00:13:45,863 Was there any sign of violence? None whatsoever. 133 00:13:52,712 --> 00:13:55,272 [ Leslie ] How do you suppose they stopped it? 134 00:13:55,348 --> 00:13:57,009 The car was found near a stop sign. 135 00:13:57,083 --> 00:14:00,416 So we assume that when your husband pulled up to the intersection, 136 00:14:00,486 --> 00:14:04,855 - the kidnappers found the opportunity-- - Um, Mr. Carlson, there's a gentleman here to see you. 137 00:14:04,924 --> 00:14:09,156 Oh, Lieutenant. Yes, gentlemen, this is Lt. Columbo, our local police liaison. 138 00:14:09,228 --> 00:14:14,666 - How do you do? - As I was saying, the stop sign suggests that-- 139 00:14:15,968 --> 00:14:17,902 Is there something we can do for you, Lieutenant? 140 00:14:17,970 --> 00:14:21,133 Uh, well, I dropped by to tell you that they found the car-- 141 00:14:21,207 --> 00:14:24,199 - We already have that information. - I can see that. 142 00:14:24,277 --> 00:14:27,735 How's the tap-in coming? Not yet. 143 00:14:27,813 --> 00:14:31,806 - Feel perfectly free to stay if you like, Lieutenant. - Oh, thank you very much. 144 00:14:33,119 --> 00:14:37,351 jerry, I'd like you to get a man, check out the houses in the area where the car was found. 145 00:14:37,423 --> 00:14:40,187 Somebody may have seen something or heard something last night. 146 00:14:40,259 --> 00:14:42,193 Start from Sunset and work your way up. 147 00:14:42,261 --> 00:14:46,197 Hammond, be sure to get the lab report on the briefcase and the luggage found in the car. 148 00:14:46,265 --> 00:14:50,326 Mr. Carlson, do you suppose that the kidnappers followed him all the way from Phoenix? 149 00:14:50,403 --> 00:14:52,337 Well, I doubt that, Mrs. Williams. 150 00:14:52,405 --> 00:14:54,396 But they must have known when he left Phoenix. 151 00:14:54,473 --> 00:14:57,704 Was there a ransom note? That's what makes us think they may have had someone there... 152 00:14:57,777 --> 00:14:59,711 checking out the time of departure. [ Clears Throat ] 153 00:14:59,779 --> 00:15:02,942 You see, if that's true, they could notify their confederates there-- Sir? 154 00:15:03,015 --> 00:15:05,643 Hmm? Uh, the lieutenant would like to see the ransom note. 155 00:15:05,718 --> 00:15:07,652 Oh-Oh, certainly. 156 00:15:07,720 --> 00:15:10,518 Do you know exactly what time your husband would have left Phoenix? 157 00:15:10,590 --> 00:15:13,150 I, um-- Excuse me. May I see the envelope, please? 158 00:15:13,226 --> 00:15:15,592 Oh, surely. No, no. 159 00:15:15,661 --> 00:15:18,892 [ Leslie ] I-I-I didn't. Neither did anyone in my office. 160 00:15:18,965 --> 00:15:21,798 Hammond, which police garage would they have taken the car to? Downtown. 161 00:15:21,867 --> 00:15:23,926 I'll arrange for our people to run a set of fingerprints. 162 00:15:24,003 --> 00:15:28,406 [ Carlson ] You know, strange thing, Mrs. Williams. When you look at the route that your husband must have taken, 163 00:15:28,474 --> 00:15:31,534 - the best place would've been here, - What is that, an aerial map? 164 00:15:31,611 --> 00:15:33,602 Mm-hmm. in your own neighborhood. Oh, I see. 165 00:15:33,679 --> 00:15:36,477 The streets are dark, secluded. What's it for? 166 00:15:36,549 --> 00:15:39,746 Excuse me. Well, it came with the instructions from the kidnappers. 167 00:15:39,819 --> 00:15:41,753 Oh, they sent instructions? Oh, yeah. 168 00:15:41,821 --> 00:15:46,315 [ Columbo ] What were they? Well, Mrs. Williams is to fly alone, north along this highway. 169 00:15:46,392 --> 00:15:49,884 - Once she reaches this point on the map, she takes a heading out across the desert. - Exactly. 170 00:15:49,962 --> 00:15:53,591 There'll be a flashing light signal right about there, and the money is to be dropped in a bag. 171 00:15:53,666 --> 00:15:56,226 The usual warnings-- no cops. 172 00:15:56,302 --> 00:15:59,965 Right. When is the drop? 173 00:16:00,039 --> 00:16:01,973 Well, that we don't know. 174 00:16:02,041 --> 00:16:05,010 But like it says, they'll call us tonight. 175 00:16:05,077 --> 00:16:09,571 - [ Carlson ] Now, listen, Miller. The victim's car has been picked up by the L.A.P.D. - [ Muttering ] 176 00:16:10,750 --> 00:16:13,310 They've got it in the downtown garage. 177 00:16:13,386 --> 00:16:17,755 That's right. I want you to run a fingerprint check on it, will ya? 178 00:16:17,823 --> 00:16:20,087 You fly a plane? Yes. 179 00:16:20,159 --> 00:16:22,354 By yourself? Yes. 180 00:16:22,428 --> 00:16:25,727 No kidding? No kidding. 181 00:16:25,798 --> 00:16:29,996 [ Carlson ] Yeah, they'll probably give you a little static, but... [ Door Closes ] 182 00:16:30,069 --> 00:16:32,867 we're going on the basis that the victim crossed the state line. 183 00:16:32,938 --> 00:16:35,634 Excuse me. How's it goin'? 184 00:16:35,708 --> 00:16:39,542 Fine. Fine. Be through in a few minutes. Working out of Phoenix as well as here. 185 00:16:39,612 --> 00:16:42,479 We'll have to wait till he gets off the phone before we can check it out. 186 00:16:42,548 --> 00:16:46,382 - Fascinating. - Right. Well, you let me know if you have any problems. 187 00:16:46,452 --> 00:16:48,386 Right. 188 00:17:12,745 --> 00:17:15,407 Can I help you, Lieutenant? 189 00:17:15,481 --> 00:17:18,211 Oh. No, just browsing. 190 00:17:18,284 --> 00:17:21,515 For anything in particular? No. 191 00:17:21,587 --> 00:17:24,784 Because if there's anything you'd like, I'd be only too happy to help. 192 00:17:24,857 --> 00:17:27,792 Oh. Thank you very much. 193 00:17:28,994 --> 00:17:31,189 Uh, Mrs. Williams-- Yes? 194 00:17:31,263 --> 00:17:34,164 Uh-- Uh, men's room? 195 00:17:34,233 --> 00:17:39,603 Oh, the powder room is up those steps, down the hall and first door on your right. 196 00:17:41,807 --> 00:17:44,935 Have you got that? [ Mumbling ] Yeah, I got it. 197 00:17:45,010 --> 00:17:47,478 First door on your right. 198 00:17:52,952 --> 00:17:56,479 - [ Hammond ] It'll be ready in a minute, Mr. Carlson. - Good. 199 00:17:56,555 --> 00:18:00,992 One, two, three, four. One, two, three, four. Perfect. 200 00:18:01,060 --> 00:18:05,929 [ Exhales ] House is cold. [ Sniffles ] 201 00:18:05,998 --> 00:18:10,367 [ Sighs ] I must say, Mrs. Williams, you're bearing up through this very well indeed. 202 00:18:10,436 --> 00:18:12,370 Oh. 203 00:18:12,438 --> 00:18:14,736 It may seem like it, but if it weren't for you-- 204 00:18:14,807 --> 00:18:18,766 Well, that's very kind of you, Mrs. Williams, but we just do what we can. That's all. 205 00:18:18,844 --> 00:18:20,744 You're very modest. 206 00:18:21,814 --> 00:18:27,514 Tell me. Do you think that you'll find any trace of-- of fingerprints in the car? 207 00:18:27,586 --> 00:18:29,645 Frankly, I doubt it. 208 00:18:29,722 --> 00:18:33,658 Well, it's a very professional, well-planned operation. 209 00:18:33,726 --> 00:18:36,627 See, they knew what time your husband was coming from out of town. 210 00:18:36,695 --> 00:18:39,289 They know about your flying a plane. 211 00:18:39,365 --> 00:18:44,064 No. No, I think the only fingerprints we'll find will be your husband's... 212 00:18:44,136 --> 00:18:46,161 and yours, of course. 213 00:18:47,740 --> 00:18:50,402 [ Door Opens ] 214 00:18:50,476 --> 00:18:52,467 [ Clears Throat ] 215 00:18:55,581 --> 00:18:57,515 Did you find it, Lieutenant? 216 00:18:57,583 --> 00:19:00,484 Oh, yes, very well. Thank you. Mm-hmm. 217 00:19:00,553 --> 00:19:04,649 Listen, I've got to tell ya, Mrs. Williams, that, uh, you've got some beautiful place here. 218 00:19:04,723 --> 00:19:06,987 You just make yourself at home. 219 00:19:07,059 --> 00:19:11,120 Say, you know the soap you have in the bathroom, the ones shaped like little lemons. 220 00:19:11,197 --> 00:19:14,098 Yes. Well, I was almost afraid to use 'em. 221 00:19:14,166 --> 00:19:16,691 But that's what they're there for, Lieutenant, to be used. 222 00:19:16,769 --> 00:19:21,172 Well, if you don't mind my asking, when you use one and you put it back in the plate, 223 00:19:21,240 --> 00:19:23,299 how do you keep it from sticking to the others? 224 00:19:24,877 --> 00:19:28,973 - It's a problem. - That's what I figured. 225 00:19:29,048 --> 00:19:31,448 Think of that-- [ Leslie ] Do you know what I think? 226 00:19:31,517 --> 00:19:35,078 I think since we're all going to be waiting here, I'm going to fix us all dinner. 227 00:19:35,154 --> 00:19:38,089 That won't be necessary, Mrs. Williams. We can have something sent in. 228 00:19:38,157 --> 00:19:41,251 Oh, please, let me do it. It will keep me busy. [ Laughs ] 229 00:19:41,327 --> 00:19:43,557 [ Chuckles ] All right. Thank you. 230 00:19:45,231 --> 00:19:48,632 - Uh, Mrs. Williams-- - Yes? 231 00:19:48,701 --> 00:19:51,864 - Don't you have any live-in servants? - Yes. 232 00:19:51,937 --> 00:19:54,235 Oh. Why, it must be the same problem everywhere. 233 00:19:54,306 --> 00:19:56,536 If you want something done, you gotta do it yourself. 234 00:19:56,609 --> 00:19:59,442 - How is that, Lieutenant? - Huh? Oh, I was just saying, 235 00:19:59,512 --> 00:20:03,039 you know, you pay a lot of money for help, and you end up doin' the cookin'. 236 00:20:03,115 --> 00:20:06,607 Well, you see, my housekeeper's been on vacation for the last week, so-- 237 00:20:06,685 --> 00:20:10,849 Oh. Oh, I see then. So you've been here alone? 238 00:20:10,923 --> 00:20:14,415 Well, if there's, uh, I mean, anything I can do to help-- 239 00:20:14,493 --> 00:20:17,053 peel potatoes, whatever-- you just feel free. 240 00:20:17,129 --> 00:20:19,393 Oh-- Oh, you'll-you'll be the first to know. 241 00:20:45,858 --> 00:20:48,622 [ Device Clicking ] 242 00:20:48,694 --> 00:20:54,496 [ Ringing ] 243 00:20:56,635 --> 00:20:59,900 - [ Man On Tape] Les? - Mrs. Williams. 244 00:21:02,474 --> 00:21:04,408 - Hello? - Les? 245 00:21:04,476 --> 00:21:07,240 [ Leslie ] Paul? They've got me. They want $300,000. 246 00:21:07,313 --> 00:21:10,214 - When? - Tomorrow night. just follow instructions. 247 00:21:10,282 --> 00:21:13,308 Paul? Paul! [ Repeatedly Presses On Cradle ] 248 00:21:13,385 --> 00:21:16,252 Play it back. Make sure we got all of it. 249 00:21:16,322 --> 00:21:19,382 - That's the spot. - [ Sighs ] From this point on the highway to here... 250 00:21:19,458 --> 00:21:21,392 it's over a hundred and fifty miles of desert. 251 00:21:21,460 --> 00:21:23,394 There's no way we can cover it. 252 00:21:23,462 --> 00:21:25,657 - Hello? - Les? 253 00:21:25,731 --> 00:21:28,632 Paul? They've got me. They want $300,000. 254 00:21:28,701 --> 00:21:30,896 When? Tomorrow night. just follow instructions. 255 00:21:30,970 --> 00:21:35,168 - I not going to take any chances with my husband's life! - Well, there's nothing to worry about. 256 00:21:35,240 --> 00:21:39,734 We'll arrange to have you followed by a helicopter. Give you plenty of room. 257 00:21:39,812 --> 00:21:42,576 Oh. I know you will. I'm sorry. 258 00:21:42,648 --> 00:21:45,276 I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound like that. 259 00:21:45,351 --> 00:21:48,582 [ Carlson ] It's quite all right, Mrs. Williams. We understand how you feel. 260 00:21:49,922 --> 00:21:53,824 I think I'll go upstairs. I'll be in my room if you want me. 261 00:21:53,892 --> 00:21:57,123 That's a good idea. We'll be covering the place all night, so you rest easy. 262 00:22:01,100 --> 00:22:03,034 [ Carlson ] All right. That's it for tonight, fellas. 263 00:22:03,102 --> 00:22:05,730 Let's wrap it up and go home, huh? 264 00:22:05,804 --> 00:22:08,568 I'll get this tape to the lab right away. 265 00:22:11,343 --> 00:22:13,573 Good night, sir. Good night. 266 00:22:17,983 --> 00:22:19,974 Good night. Good night. Check with you in the morning. 267 00:22:20,052 --> 00:22:23,078 All right. [ Door Opens ] 268 00:22:23,155 --> 00:22:27,489 Well, Lieutenant, I guess that's it for tonight. [ Door Closes ] 269 00:22:27,559 --> 00:22:29,550 Lieutenant? 270 00:22:31,030 --> 00:22:34,227 Let's call it a night, huh? Oh. 271 00:22:34,299 --> 00:22:39,396 Hey, sorry. I-- Thinking and-- 272 00:22:39,471 --> 00:22:41,701 Unique woman. What's that? 273 00:22:41,774 --> 00:22:45,369 Oh, you see, uh-- She's an exceptional woman. Oh. 274 00:22:45,444 --> 00:22:47,810 What do you mean? 275 00:22:47,880 --> 00:22:53,750 Well, when the phone rang, you know, she ran to the phone, she picked up the receiver, and, uh-- 276 00:22:53,819 --> 00:22:57,277 She never asked her-her-her-- her husband if he was all right. 277 00:22:57,356 --> 00:23:02,487 I don't see anything strange about that. The woman was frightened. She was under stress-- 278 00:23:02,561 --> 00:23:06,224 That's right, yes. She-- She was. She was under stress. Right. 279 00:23:06,298 --> 00:23:08,994 See, I just can't help thinkin' though, but-- 280 00:23:09,068 --> 00:23:14,438 If I was in the hands of kidnappers and my wife didn't ask me if I was okay, uh-- 281 00:23:14,506 --> 00:23:16,667 I'd think about that. 282 00:23:16,742 --> 00:23:19,836 What's your point, Lieutenant? Point? No, no, no. No point. 283 00:23:19,912 --> 00:23:24,975 just that, uh, she's a unique person. 284 00:23:25,050 --> 00:23:28,679 Good night, Lieutenant. Yeah, good night. Good night. [ Mumbles ] 285 00:23:31,857 --> 00:23:35,122 [ Door Opens, Closes ] 286 00:23:44,470 --> 00:23:49,874 Now, if you'll just initial here and sign here on all three copies. 287 00:23:49,942 --> 00:23:52,376 $300,000. All yours. 288 00:23:52,444 --> 00:23:54,378 We got all the serial numbers? Yes, sir. 289 00:23:54,446 --> 00:23:56,744 The bank was very cooperative in helping us mark the money. 290 00:23:56,815 --> 00:24:00,444 - Well, we certainly appreciate your help. - You're welcome. 291 00:24:00,519 --> 00:24:04,649 Apart from your savings, trust accounts and municipal bonds, 292 00:24:04,723 --> 00:24:09,057 we naturally were forced to sell all of your stocks at a considerable loss. 293 00:24:09,128 --> 00:24:11,824 I'm sorry, but there was no other alternative. 294 00:24:11,897 --> 00:24:15,298 I know that, Mr. Perkins, but this is no time to worry about money. 295 00:24:15,367 --> 00:24:18,165 [ Mr. Perkins ] Of course, Mrs. Williams. I brought a bag, Mrs. Williams. 296 00:24:18,237 --> 00:24:21,536 Oh, thank you. That won't be necessary. I have a bag. All right. 297 00:24:21,607 --> 00:24:24,940 This should do it. If you don't need me any longer-- Gentlemen. 298 00:24:25,010 --> 00:24:26,944 Thanks again. 299 00:24:40,526 --> 00:24:44,656 Mrs. Williams. We've got a priority clearance on that air corridor marked on the map. 300 00:24:44,730 --> 00:24:46,789 You'll be all by yourself. What about you? 301 00:24:46,865 --> 00:24:49,663 Well, we'll be holding a position about two miles behind you. 302 00:24:49,735 --> 00:24:52,135 You promised to keep your people clear of the area. 303 00:24:52,204 --> 00:24:54,672 The highway patrol units all have their instructions. 304 00:24:54,740 --> 00:24:59,177 If they spot a car picking up the money, they just make an identification and then let it pass. 305 00:24:59,244 --> 00:25:03,340 Chances are they'll get the money and clear out before anyone gets a chance to get near them, 306 00:25:03,415 --> 00:25:06,942 so I wouldn't worry too much, Mrs. Williams. I'm concerned about my husband's life. 307 00:25:07,019 --> 00:25:10,819 Oh, of course. If you gentlemen will excuse me, I'll change. 308 00:25:12,124 --> 00:25:14,115 [ Sighs ] 309 00:25:25,637 --> 00:25:27,662 [ Engine Idling ] [ Carlson ] All set, Mrs. Williams? 310 00:25:27,739 --> 00:25:30,731 I'm ready. All right. Let's go. 311 00:25:31,910 --> 00:25:34,674 [ Engine Grows Louder ] 312 00:25:41,553 --> 00:25:46,320 You ride in the rear. Oh. Certainly. Certainly. 313 00:25:50,929 --> 00:25:53,489 [ Propellers Whirring ] 314 00:26:08,280 --> 00:26:10,771 You wanna talk, press this button. Wanna listen, release it. 315 00:26:12,284 --> 00:26:14,218 8-3-5-Romeo, takeoff. 316 00:26:14,286 --> 00:26:17,119 [ Man ] You're clear, 8-3-5-Romeo. 317 00:26:23,462 --> 00:26:26,056 [ No Audible Dialogue ] 318 00:26:57,496 --> 00:26:59,691 [ Clattering ] What was that? 319 00:26:59,765 --> 00:27:03,496 What was what? I think there's something wrong with the motor. 320 00:27:03,568 --> 00:27:07,527 Take it easy, Lieutenant. Everything's just fine. 321 00:27:25,023 --> 00:27:30,154 - This is 8-3-5-Romeo. 3-5-Romeo. - We read you, 8-3-5-Romeo. 322 00:27:30,228 --> 00:27:34,665 Am approaching northbound freeway and descending to 1 ,000 feet. 323 00:27:34,733 --> 00:27:36,667 Airspeed at one-five-oh. 324 00:27:36,735 --> 00:27:40,171 We're holding a position on your heading, airspeed one-five-oh. 325 00:27:40,238 --> 00:27:42,706 Right. 326 00:27:56,321 --> 00:27:58,619 How much further is it? 327 00:27:58,690 --> 00:28:00,783 [ Over Radio ] How much further is it? 328 00:28:03,962 --> 00:28:07,693 How much further is it? She'll notify us as she approaches the Palmdale turnoff. 329 00:28:07,766 --> 00:28:11,327 - Is that near? - Well, do you see that highway down there to your right? 330 00:28:15,574 --> 00:28:19,840 Yes, I do. Well, she'll be heading off across the desert from the next coordinates. 331 00:28:19,911 --> 00:28:21,469 Oh, good. 332 00:28:35,260 --> 00:28:41,165 This is 3-5-Romeo. Approaching coordinates. Begin new heading 20 degrees northwest. 333 00:28:41,233 --> 00:28:44,600 - We read you. - Airspeed at one-five-oh. 334 00:28:44,669 --> 00:28:49,504 This is 33-Foxtrot to all ground units. We're approaching the Palmdale turnoff. 335 00:28:50,575 --> 00:28:55,239 - Maintain radio silence until visual contact is established. - Right. 336 00:28:58,116 --> 00:29:01,017 [ Button Clicks ] [ Beeping ] 337 00:29:01,086 --> 00:29:04,055 [ Beeping Continues ] 338 00:29:09,361 --> 00:29:13,627 [ Beeping Continues ] 339 00:29:18,537 --> 00:29:21,438 [ Beeping Continues ] 340 00:29:21,506 --> 00:29:24,100 [ Beeping Fades ] 341 00:29:30,048 --> 00:29:33,415 This is 8-3-5-Romeo. 3-5-Romeo. 342 00:29:33,485 --> 00:29:38,821 Have established visual contact with light at spot access road by coordinates 28. 343 00:29:38,890 --> 00:29:42,053 - We read you. - Circling now to make drop. 344 00:29:42,127 --> 00:29:46,496 This is 33-Foxtrot to special highway patrol units 1 2 and 22. 345 00:29:46,565 --> 00:29:50,626 Move toward access road near map coordinates 28. 346 00:30:10,989 --> 00:30:15,289 Drop completed. Over and out. 347 00:30:50,295 --> 00:30:53,196 They got it. Any sign of them? 348 00:30:53,265 --> 00:30:58,293 No, sir. There's a highway only a half mile that way with a lot of heavy traffic. 349 00:30:58,370 --> 00:31:00,565 They must have gotten lost in that before we got here. 350 00:31:00,639 --> 00:31:03,699 Well, we knew that going in, didn't we? Mr. Carlson? 351 00:31:03,775 --> 00:31:05,709 Wanna look at this? 352 00:31:09,381 --> 00:31:12,714 [ Police Radio Chatter ] 353 00:31:12,784 --> 00:31:14,718 [ Carlson ] All right. Let's go home. 354 00:31:15,787 --> 00:31:19,689 Lieutenant? Lt. Columbo! 355 00:31:19,758 --> 00:31:21,749 Let's go! 356 00:31:25,063 --> 00:31:28,499 Hey, Lieutenant. Lieutenant, I'll take that. 357 00:31:32,404 --> 00:31:35,965 [ Doors Closing ] 358 00:31:36,041 --> 00:31:38,202 [ Engine Starts ] 359 00:31:39,778 --> 00:31:41,769 [ Door Closes ] 360 00:31:48,320 --> 00:31:50,413 [ Engine Starts ] 361 00:32:29,728 --> 00:32:32,492 [ Door Closes ] 362 00:32:44,709 --> 00:32:47,337 Are you coming, Lieutenant? 363 00:32:47,412 --> 00:32:51,576 Uh, no. Why don't you go ahead? Uh-- I'm gonna take a little walk, clear my head. 364 00:32:51,650 --> 00:32:53,948 You know what I mean. All right. 365 00:32:54,019 --> 00:32:57,682 [ Engines Start ] 366 00:32:59,624 --> 00:33:02,593 [ Police Radio Chatter ] 367 00:33:21,713 --> 00:33:23,647 [ Unlocks ] 368 00:33:26,017 --> 00:33:29,953 [ Rustling ] 369 00:34:18,303 --> 00:34:20,601 [ Gasps ] 370 00:34:23,074 --> 00:34:25,941 - How is my father? - [ Exhales ] 371 00:34:28,480 --> 00:34:30,448 What are you doing here? 372 00:34:30,515 --> 00:34:34,383 How is he? Have you heard from him? 373 00:34:34,452 --> 00:34:36,386 No, not yet. 374 00:34:36,454 --> 00:34:38,945 But you paid the kidnappers the ransom money. 375 00:34:39,023 --> 00:34:41,253 When will they bring him back? 376 00:34:43,094 --> 00:34:45,187 We don't know. 377 00:34:49,000 --> 00:34:52,731 I, uh-- [ Key Clatters ] 378 00:34:52,804 --> 00:34:55,295 I wasn't expecting you. 379 00:34:58,009 --> 00:35:02,309 After I got your cable, I caught the first plane out of Zurich. 380 00:35:02,380 --> 00:35:05,372 There was only a 30-minute layover. 381 00:35:05,450 --> 00:35:09,887 You didn't have to come. What you mean is, you didn't want me to. 382 00:35:09,954 --> 00:35:12,582 What I mean is that there's nothing for you to do here. 383 00:35:12,657 --> 00:35:15,148 Let's drop the polite charade, Leslie. 384 00:35:15,226 --> 00:35:18,320 I hate you as much as you hate me. Maybe more. 385 00:35:18,396 --> 00:35:22,833 And you don't have to play the martyred stepmother to me anymore. I've outgrown that. 386 00:35:22,901 --> 00:35:27,497 So you see, all the expensive education in Switzerland isn't a total loss. 387 00:35:27,572 --> 00:35:31,633 Margaret, we're both tired, and we're both upset. 388 00:35:31,709 --> 00:35:35,975 I'm sure neither of us wants to say anything they don't mean, 389 00:35:36,047 --> 00:35:39,141 or that we may be sorry for later. 390 00:35:42,554 --> 00:35:45,284 Why don't we get some sleep? 391 00:35:45,356 --> 00:35:47,586 Tomorrow may be a long day. 392 00:35:56,601 --> 00:35:58,592 Margaret, I'm worried. 393 00:36:00,271 --> 00:36:02,637 I love him too. 394 00:36:02,707 --> 00:36:05,540 I haven't been able to sleep. 395 00:36:05,610 --> 00:36:08,238 I'm terribly nervous. 396 00:36:09,247 --> 00:36:14,048 [ Exhales ] Margaret, I'm afraid. 397 00:36:20,124 --> 00:36:22,319 I don't want anything to happen to him. 398 00:36:22,393 --> 00:36:24,691 I know. I know. 399 00:36:24,762 --> 00:36:28,425 Don't worry. Don't worry. 400 00:36:34,672 --> 00:36:37,038 [ Woman On Television ] What kind of insurance could he have? 401 00:36:37,108 --> 00:36:39,133 [ Man On Television ] Enough to cover doctors' and hospital bills. 402 00:36:39,210 --> 00:36:43,977 Say, 1 25 a week cash benefit. Around 50,000 capital sum. 403 00:36:44,048 --> 00:36:48,007 Capital sum? What's that? In case he gets killed. 404 00:36:48,086 --> 00:36:50,350 - Maybe I shouldn't have said that. - [ Sighs ] 405 00:36:50,421 --> 00:36:52,787 I suppose you have to think of everything in your business. 406 00:36:52,857 --> 00:36:54,791 Well, your husband would understand. 407 00:36:54,859 --> 00:36:57,191 I'm sure I could sell him on the idea of some accident protection. 408 00:36:57,262 --> 00:37:00,561 Why don't I talk to him about it? You could try, but he's pretty tough going. 409 00:37:00,632 --> 00:37:02,930 Oh, they're all tough at first. 410 00:37:04,202 --> 00:37:06,796 He has a lot on his mind. He doesn't want to listen to anything... 411 00:37:06,871 --> 00:37:10,102 except maybe the baseball game on the radio. A little early for the late show? 412 00:37:10,174 --> 00:37:13,940 [ Woman ] Sometimes we sit here all evening and never say a word to each other. 413 00:37:14,012 --> 00:37:16,446 [ Man ] Sounds pretty dull. 414 00:37:16,514 --> 00:37:19,483 [ Woman ] So I just sit and knit. 415 00:37:19,551 --> 00:37:22,918 [ Man ] Is that what you're waiting for? No calls? 416 00:37:24,289 --> 00:37:26,348 Except to say they haven't heard anything. 417 00:37:26,424 --> 00:37:31,555 - They've got fuzz of some kind out on the street, watching the house. - Federal agents. 418 00:37:31,629 --> 00:37:35,292 And there's nothing in the paper about Daddy or the kidnappers. 419 00:37:35,366 --> 00:37:39,598 No. We've kept it out of the press and off the radio and the television. 420 00:37:41,005 --> 00:37:44,270 I was waiting for the news. 421 00:37:44,342 --> 00:37:46,936 - Where are you going? - I have a date in court. 422 00:37:47,011 --> 00:37:50,640 How can you do that? I mean, how can you function? 423 00:37:50,715 --> 00:37:54,708 Seems like a strange time to play lady lawyer. 424 00:37:58,356 --> 00:38:02,122 Someday, when you take on responsibilities, you'll find out that you don't always have a choice-- 425 00:38:02,193 --> 00:38:04,127 that you have to function, no matter what. 426 00:38:04,195 --> 00:38:07,130 I guess I'm lucky I'm still irresponsible, 427 00:38:07,198 --> 00:38:10,725 because all I can think about is my father. 428 00:38:10,802 --> 00:38:13,498 No more than I. 429 00:38:20,244 --> 00:38:23,008 Why don't you try to occupy yourself with something, Margaret? 430 00:38:23,081 --> 00:38:27,609 I mean something besides television and running up overseas telephone bills. 431 00:38:27,685 --> 00:38:30,654 You might find that it'll pass the time more quickly. 432 00:38:30,722 --> 00:38:33,122 I'll call you the moment I hear anything. 433 00:38:33,191 --> 00:38:36,251 Leslie! Good luck. 434 00:38:37,662 --> 00:38:41,860 - With your case. - Thank you, Margaret. 435 00:38:45,703 --> 00:38:48,171 [ Man ] Good afternoon. I sell accident insurance on husbands. 436 00:38:48,239 --> 00:38:51,208 You got one that's been around too long? One you'd like to turn into cash? 437 00:38:51,275 --> 00:38:54,642 just give me a smile and I'll help you collect? [ Chuckles ] Boy, what a dope you must think I am. 438 00:38:54,712 --> 00:38:56,646 I think you're rotten. 439 00:38:56,714 --> 00:38:59,012 I think you're swell, so long as I'm not your husband. 440 00:38:59,083 --> 00:39:02,109 - Get out of here. - You bet I'll get out of here, baby. 441 00:39:02,186 --> 00:39:04,120 I'll get out of here, but quick. 442 00:39:04,188 --> 00:39:07,214 ??[ Movie Sound Track: Orchestral ] 443 00:39:08,292 --> 00:39:12,854 Now, when their attorney cross-examines you about the accident, cry. 444 00:39:12,930 --> 00:39:14,864 About what? Everything. 445 00:39:14,932 --> 00:39:18,368 Especially when he asks you how fast you were going when you hit their car. 446 00:39:18,436 --> 00:39:20,700 Excuse me. just sit down there. 447 00:39:20,772 --> 00:39:23,605 Give me the brief, Michael. 448 00:39:23,675 --> 00:39:27,167 [ Sighs ] Ah. Les. 449 00:39:27,245 --> 00:39:29,179 Can we talk-- Have you found my husband? 450 00:39:29,247 --> 00:39:31,272 Can we talk privately? You can tell me here. 451 00:39:31,349 --> 00:39:34,648 - I think we'd better speak privately. -Just tell me, did you find my husband? 452 00:39:34,719 --> 00:39:37,984 - Please, Mrs. Williams. - Will you tell me? Is he all right? 453 00:39:38,056 --> 00:39:40,581 Your husband is dead, Mrs. Williams. 454 00:39:44,228 --> 00:39:47,925 [ Exhales ] Oh. 455 00:39:47,999 --> 00:39:52,231 [ Breathing Deeply ] Are you all right, Mrs. Williams? 456 00:39:52,303 --> 00:39:54,237 Give me a moment. [ Continues Breathing Deeply ] 457 00:39:54,305 --> 00:39:56,933 [ Carlson ] Can we get you a doctor? [ Leslie ] Yes. 458 00:39:57,008 --> 00:39:59,670 I'll arrange to have you driven home. 459 00:39:59,744 --> 00:40:02,406 Get my bag and things. 460 00:40:03,948 --> 00:40:06,212 [ Sighs ] [ Columbo ] I'm very sorry-- 461 00:40:06,284 --> 00:40:08,275 [ Leslie ] I know. 462 00:40:13,357 --> 00:40:16,019 [ Carlson ] Lieutenant. Uh, 463 00:40:16,094 --> 00:40:19,222 did she ask where the body was? No. 464 00:40:19,297 --> 00:40:22,733 I didn't think so. Oh, listen, one more thing, Mr. Carlson. 465 00:40:22,800 --> 00:40:26,395 She didn't, uh, ask how her husband was killed, did she? No. 466 00:40:26,471 --> 00:40:29,599 That's what I thought. All right, Lieutenant, what's bothering you now? 467 00:40:29,674 --> 00:40:32,074 No, nothing. No, come on. Something's bothering you. 468 00:40:32,143 --> 00:40:34,077 No, it's just that up until now, 469 00:40:34,145 --> 00:40:36,978 you know, she was very cool and she was very composed, 470 00:40:37,048 --> 00:40:39,642 and she suddenly fell apart in front of other people. 471 00:40:39,717 --> 00:40:43,153 I don't see anything so strange about that. No? Convenient maybe? 472 00:40:43,221 --> 00:40:45,155 Conven-- Look, Columbo. 473 00:40:45,223 --> 00:40:48,056 If you think she had something to do with the kidnapping, just say so. 474 00:40:48,126 --> 00:40:50,424 Look, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. 475 00:40:50,495 --> 00:40:53,396 You asked me what was botherin' me, and I told you. 476 00:40:53,464 --> 00:40:57,628 Let's understand this one thing-- If you start harassing this woman, I'm going to take it upstairs. 477 00:40:57,702 --> 00:41:01,934 Uh, just one minute, uh, Mr. Carlson. You see, it's like this. 478 00:41:02,006 --> 00:41:06,807 This is not just a kidnapping. This is a murder now, 479 00:41:06,878 --> 00:41:09,244 and I kinda figure that's my department. 480 00:41:09,313 --> 00:41:11,247 I'll see you around. 481 00:41:25,863 --> 00:41:29,856 I gave Margaret an injection, put her to bed. She'll be asleep soon. 482 00:41:29,934 --> 00:41:32,232 [ Leslie ] Oh, good. 483 00:41:32,303 --> 00:41:35,329 Take two of those before bed. They'll put you out all night long. 484 00:41:35,406 --> 00:41:39,240 Thank you. I can't thank you enough. Really. All of you. I-- 485 00:41:39,310 --> 00:41:42,905 We'll let you get some rest now. [ Sighs ] 486 00:41:42,980 --> 00:41:47,383 You're so brave. Thank you. 487 00:41:47,451 --> 00:41:49,851 Call me if you need me. I will. I will. 488 00:41:49,921 --> 00:41:52,583 Good night, darling. See you tomorrow. Good night. Thank you. 489 00:41:52,657 --> 00:41:55,854 Take care of yourself. Bye. [ Door Closes ] 490 00:41:55,927 --> 00:41:59,192 Mrs. Williams, we'll be keeping a man on the house for the next few days. 491 00:41:59,263 --> 00:42:01,197 Is there anything else we can do? No, thank you. 492 00:42:01,265 --> 00:42:03,199 Good night. Good night. 493 00:42:06,370 --> 00:42:09,066 [ Sighs ] 494 00:42:42,807 --> 00:42:48,074 ?? [ Humming ] 495 00:42:49,881 --> 00:42:52,281 ?? [ Continues ] 496 00:42:55,953 --> 00:43:01,186 [ Man ] Let us pray. O Lord, we implore you to grant this mercy to your dead servant, 497 00:43:01,259 --> 00:43:07,220 that he who held fast to your will by his intentions may not receive punishment in return for his deeds, 498 00:43:07,298 --> 00:43:11,598 so has the true faith united him with the throng with the faithful on earth, 499 00:43:11,669 --> 00:43:16,629 Your mercy may unite him with the company of the choirs of angels in heaven through Christ our Lord. 500 00:43:16,707 --> 00:43:22,407 Eternal rest grant upon him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. 501 00:43:22,480 --> 00:43:24,675 May he rest in peace. 502 00:43:24,749 --> 00:43:28,549 May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, 503 00:43:28,619 --> 00:43:31,782 rest in peace. 504 00:43:37,695 --> 00:43:40,391 My deepest sympathy to you, Mrs. Williams. Thank you. 505 00:43:40,464 --> 00:43:42,432 I pray you be comforted. Thank you. 506 00:43:42,500 --> 00:43:44,661 God's peace be with you. 507 00:43:44,735 --> 00:43:46,726 [ Engine Starts ] 508 00:43:53,477 --> 00:43:57,846 Leslie. Yes, Margaret. 509 00:43:57,915 --> 00:44:01,146 - This is what you wanted, isn't it? - [ Gasps ] 510 00:44:01,218 --> 00:44:03,686 Are you all right? 511 00:44:03,754 --> 00:44:06,348 [ Exhales ] I'm all right. 512 00:44:06,424 --> 00:44:08,119 I'm all right. It's nothing. 513 00:44:09,794 --> 00:44:12,661 [ Door Closes ] 514 00:44:12,730 --> 00:44:15,324 I'm all right. 515 00:44:27,545 --> 00:44:31,379 [ Doors Closing ] [ Engine Starts ] 516 00:44:47,965 --> 00:44:51,196 - Are you all right? - Yes. Thank you. 517 00:44:51,268 --> 00:44:54,829 Who are you? I'm Lt. Columbo. I'm from the local police. 518 00:45:00,444 --> 00:45:03,936 It there's ever anything you want, 519 00:45:04,015 --> 00:45:06,006 you're not alone. Margaret.! 520 00:45:06,083 --> 00:45:10,213 Remember, I'm always available. 521 00:45:10,287 --> 00:45:13,120 You'd better come. They're waiting for you. 522 00:45:18,763 --> 00:45:22,722 [ Woman ] I see now what you mean about her, Les. She's spoiled and completely selfish. 523 00:45:22,800 --> 00:45:24,734 No, Pat. You can't blame her. 524 00:45:24,802 --> 00:45:28,932 Paul and I both indulged her too much, I guess. It was our fault really. 525 00:45:29,006 --> 00:45:33,636 If she were mine, stepdaughter or not, I would kick her out right now without a dime. 526 00:45:33,711 --> 00:45:36,578 Oh. Uh, Pat, I think Les should get some rest. 527 00:45:36,647 --> 00:45:39,207 Yes, I think so too. 528 00:45:40,284 --> 00:45:43,151 [ Chattering ] 529 00:45:43,220 --> 00:45:47,884 [ Leslie ] Too much money-- So sad. 530 00:45:47,958 --> 00:45:50,222 You've got to make her grow up, Les. Are you all right? 531 00:45:50,294 --> 00:45:52,524 Yes, I am. Thank you very much. 532 00:45:52,596 --> 00:45:54,530 Good-bye, Leslie. Good-bye. 533 00:45:54,598 --> 00:45:58,261 Oh, I have to tell you how much I appreciate everything. 534 00:45:58,335 --> 00:46:01,327 You have been such good friends. 535 00:46:01,405 --> 00:46:04,374 [ Kisses ] Paul loved you. He loved you all. So do I. 536 00:46:04,442 --> 00:46:07,275 Good-bye, Leslie. We love you. 537 00:46:07,344 --> 00:46:10,142 I'll call tomorrow. Okay. 538 00:46:20,091 --> 00:46:22,082 [ Door Closes ] 539 00:46:23,994 --> 00:46:26,724 Margaret! 540 00:46:26,797 --> 00:46:30,392 Margaret, come down, please. I know you're up there listening, so you might as well come down. 541 00:46:30,468 --> 00:46:34,029 You called, Mother dear? I think we'd better have a talk. 542 00:46:34,105 --> 00:46:37,233 Of course, Mother dear. 543 00:46:37,308 --> 00:46:40,607 Margaret, I'm willing to overlook the incident at the cemetery. 544 00:46:40,678 --> 00:46:42,612 I'll write it off to adolescent hysteria. 545 00:46:42,680 --> 00:46:48,118 But I'm in no mood to tolerate any further outbursts, sarcasm, anything. 546 00:46:48,185 --> 00:46:49,584 Of course. 547 00:46:54,992 --> 00:46:58,359 You're making it very difficult for us to live together. 548 00:46:58,429 --> 00:47:00,829 I think you should go back to school this weekend. 549 00:47:00,898 --> 00:47:05,528 The school doesn't open for another month. There's nobody there. 550 00:47:05,603 --> 00:47:11,166 - You have friends in Paris. Visit them. - Leslie, I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying right here. 551 00:47:11,242 --> 00:47:14,006 - Why? - It's my home too! 552 00:47:18,916 --> 00:47:23,114 Margaret, while we're on the subject of school, 553 00:47:23,187 --> 00:47:25,951 I think we better talk about something else. 554 00:47:26,023 --> 00:47:29,117 Like what? Finances. 555 00:47:32,596 --> 00:47:37,329 Your father-- Your father and I have kept you very sheltered from our financial affairs, 556 00:47:37,401 --> 00:47:40,564 but now I think that you are ready to face certain realities. 557 00:47:40,638 --> 00:47:42,572 I have my own trust account. 558 00:47:42,640 --> 00:47:46,007 You did. I won't bore you with the details, 559 00:47:46,076 --> 00:47:50,342 but, since you're a minor, your father and I had joint control of that account. 560 00:47:50,414 --> 00:47:55,010 - What happened to it? - In order to pay the ransom, I was forced to close that account out... 561 00:47:55,085 --> 00:47:57,246 along with everything else that we had. 562 00:47:57,321 --> 00:47:59,482 You're trying to tell me that we're broke. Is that it? 563 00:47:59,557 --> 00:48:04,893 No. It's not as bad as all that. My law practice and the firm will provide us with enough... 564 00:48:04,962 --> 00:48:08,864 to keep us off the streets of Beverly Hills. 565 00:48:08,933 --> 00:48:11,868 But there will have to be certain readjustments. 566 00:48:11,936 --> 00:48:15,667 You mean my allowance. That's a very good example. 567 00:48:17,174 --> 00:48:20,701 How much of a ""readjustment''? 568 00:48:20,778 --> 00:48:23,406 I don't know. I'll have to see what I can come up with. 569 00:48:23,480 --> 00:48:25,948 I'll let you know. 570 00:48:26,016 --> 00:48:28,849 In the meantime, while you're here for the next couple of weeks, 571 00:48:28,919 --> 00:48:33,049 why don't you try to find yourself a job, pick up some extra cash? 572 00:48:34,158 --> 00:48:36,092 Might come in handy. 573 00:48:51,375 --> 00:48:53,434 May I help you? 574 00:48:53,510 --> 00:48:55,910 Uh, Lt. Columbo. I had an appointment. 575 00:48:55,980 --> 00:48:58,608 Oh, of course. My goodness, you're early. 576 00:48:58,682 --> 00:49:01,014 I know. How'd you get in? 577 00:49:01,085 --> 00:49:03,918 Oh, the janitor was nice enough to let me in. 578 00:49:03,988 --> 00:49:06,889 Ms. Williams should be here in a moment. She's never late for an appointment. 579 00:49:06,957 --> 00:49:10,620 Oh, really? Me, I got this terrible habit-- I'm always early. 580 00:49:10,694 --> 00:49:13,458 Whenever I have to be anywhere, I get there ahead of time. 581 00:49:13,530 --> 00:49:17,398 What, you a legal secretary? Believe it or not, I'm an attorney. 582 00:49:17,468 --> 00:49:22,667 I'm called an associate which means that, since the secretary phoned in sick, I have to fill in. 583 00:49:22,740 --> 00:49:25,334 - I don't know how you do it. - Do what? 584 00:49:25,409 --> 00:49:28,708 - Work for a woman. - Oh, it doesn't bother me. 585 00:49:28,779 --> 00:49:32,909 It just so happens that she's one of the best trial attorneys in this state. 586 00:49:32,983 --> 00:49:34,917 Good morning. 587 00:49:34,985 --> 00:49:37,180 Good morning. Have I kept you waiting? 588 00:49:37,254 --> 00:49:40,189 Uh, no. I was early. Oh, good. 589 00:49:40,257 --> 00:49:42,225 [ Door Opens ] Well, won't you come in? 590 00:49:42,293 --> 00:49:44,454 Shall I hold the calls? Please, Michael. 591 00:49:51,702 --> 00:49:54,762 I'm sorry to bother you your first day back and all, but-- 592 00:49:54,838 --> 00:49:58,137 Oh, that's all right, Lieutenant. 593 00:49:58,208 --> 00:50:00,699 I understand the federal people haven't come up with anything. 594 00:50:00,778 --> 00:50:04,270 No, nothing. Not a word, not a clue. 595 00:50:05,382 --> 00:50:07,714 Say, 596 00:50:07,785 --> 00:50:10,117 that's some telephone. 597 00:50:10,187 --> 00:50:12,121 Yes. 598 00:50:12,189 --> 00:50:15,454 What-What are you, uh-- You big on gadgets, are you? 599 00:50:15,526 --> 00:50:19,622 No. I just happen to find that one a great help. 600 00:50:19,697 --> 00:50:22,757 You see, say that I want to get in touch with a client... 601 00:50:22,833 --> 00:50:26,098 to be in court, say, Monday for example. 602 00:50:26,170 --> 00:50:28,798 I just tape a message, 603 00:50:28,872 --> 00:50:34,469 and this machine calls my client... and does it for me. 604 00:50:34,545 --> 00:50:36,479 Oh, that's-- 605 00:50:36,547 --> 00:50:38,378 That's really somethin'. Hmm. 606 00:50:38,449 --> 00:50:41,714 You know, today they can do everything electronically, I mean, if they wanted to. 607 00:50:41,785 --> 00:50:43,719 I'd bet on that. 608 00:50:43,787 --> 00:50:46,051 You don't mind if I take down the name of this, do you? 609 00:50:46,123 --> 00:50:50,150 I mean, maybe I could con the department into getting one for my office. 610 00:50:51,295 --> 00:50:53,525 You have a pen? Oh, thank you. 611 00:50:53,597 --> 00:50:55,531 These things, they really fascinate me. 612 00:50:55,599 --> 00:51:00,901 They got a new thing today, uh, like if I wanna take my wife to the ball game, 613 00:51:00,971 --> 00:51:05,601 uh, I just dial this service, uh, for the tickets. 614 00:51:05,676 --> 00:51:07,940 And it's all done by the computer. 615 00:51:08,011 --> 00:51:11,071 It's really, uh-- It's unbelievable. 616 00:51:11,148 --> 00:51:15,551 Hmm. What did you want to see me about, Lieutenant, exactly? 617 00:51:15,619 --> 00:51:18,349 Uh, you see, Mrs. Williams, 618 00:51:18,422 --> 00:51:22,051 now that, uh, a murder has been committed, it's, uh-- 619 00:51:22,126 --> 00:51:25,960 It's my job to look at this case from all possible angles. 620 00:51:26,029 --> 00:51:28,259 I would think it would be your job to catch the kidnapper. 621 00:51:28,332 --> 00:51:32,063 Oh, well, the federal agents are on that, and, of course, we have our men on it too. 622 00:51:32,136 --> 00:51:35,970 - Very reassuring. - Yes, it is, 'cause they do a fine job. 623 00:51:36,039 --> 00:51:38,872 But, uh, you see, the thing is with me, uh, 624 00:51:38,942 --> 00:51:41,706 I'm a strange guy. 625 00:51:41,779 --> 00:51:43,974 Really? Yeah. I worry. 626 00:51:44,047 --> 00:51:46,948 I mean, little things bother me. I'm a worrier. 627 00:51:47,017 --> 00:51:49,110 I mean, little insignificant details-- 628 00:51:49,186 --> 00:51:51,120 I lose my appetite, I can't eat. 629 00:51:51,188 --> 00:51:55,454 My wife, she says to me, "You know, you can really be a pain. '" 630 00:51:55,526 --> 00:51:59,189 - You know what I mean? - Yeah, I get the general picture. 631 00:52:00,364 --> 00:52:02,298 Why don't you get on with-- 632 00:52:02,366 --> 00:52:04,459 Oh, yeah. Sure, right. 633 00:52:04,535 --> 00:52:09,097 You see, there are certain things here about your husband's kidnapping that, uh-- 634 00:52:09,173 --> 00:52:11,164 Certain details that, uh-- 635 00:52:12,376 --> 00:52:15,174 - Does this lighter work? - Yes. 636 00:52:22,553 --> 00:52:25,989 - Boy, they really nag me. - Such as? 637 00:52:26,056 --> 00:52:30,015 - The bag for instance. - Which bag? 638 00:52:31,094 --> 00:52:34,996 The one you dropped from the plane, the one with the ransom money in it. 639 00:52:35,065 --> 00:52:38,592 - Oh, didn't I say which bag it was? - No, you didn't. 640 00:52:38,669 --> 00:52:43,766 - I'm sorry. I thought I did. - What about the bag? 641 00:52:43,841 --> 00:52:48,403 Well, I just thought it's funny that whoever took the money out of the bag, 642 00:52:48,479 --> 00:52:50,413 they didn't take the bag with them. 643 00:52:50,481 --> 00:52:54,542 - Well, what's so funny about that? - You figure a kidnapper, he's afraid to get caught, right? 644 00:52:54,618 --> 00:52:58,816 So he's not likely to stop, open a bag, take the money out... 645 00:52:58,889 --> 00:53:01,289 then run away and leave the bag behind. 646 00:53:01,358 --> 00:53:05,385 [ Inhales ] Well, of course, you know more than I do, Lieutenant, 647 00:53:05,462 --> 00:53:08,989 but don't people under stress act more out of... 648 00:53:09,066 --> 00:53:11,864 immediate emotion than logic? 649 00:53:11,935 --> 00:53:13,869 That's absolutely true. 650 00:53:13,937 --> 00:53:16,667 In fact, I'll go even further. 651 00:53:16,740 --> 00:53:20,471 That's what does most criminals in eventually. 652 00:53:20,544 --> 00:53:23,411 Well, then isn't it safe to assume that, uh, 653 00:53:23,480 --> 00:53:26,574 that they would open the bag to see if the money was there? 654 00:53:26,650 --> 00:53:29,881 And then, after they saw it, out of fear or panic, 655 00:53:29,953 --> 00:53:32,683 take the money out of the bag and run. 656 00:53:32,756 --> 00:53:34,747 Yeah, that's probably right. That's probably right. 657 00:53:34,825 --> 00:53:40,229 I'm sure that it's right. I mean, I don't mean to defend my point about the bag, but-- 658 00:53:40,297 --> 00:53:44,529 I was just using that as an example to show you the kind of person I am. 659 00:53:44,601 --> 00:53:47,331 You understand how details bother me. 660 00:53:47,404 --> 00:53:50,567 In other words, I'm trying to show you a whatchamacallit of mine, 661 00:53:50,641 --> 00:53:53,337 a, uh-- An idiosyncrasy. 662 00:53:53,410 --> 00:53:55,640 Right. Idiosyncrasy. 663 00:53:56,980 --> 00:54:01,246 - Gee, that's, uh-- That's a good word. - Oh, one of the best. 664 00:54:04,888 --> 00:54:07,948 - Anything else? - Uh, no. 665 00:54:09,126 --> 00:54:11,651 No, I guess that's it. 666 00:54:14,932 --> 00:54:18,333 Listen, I, uh-- I wanna thank you for taking the time to talk to me. 667 00:54:18,402 --> 00:54:22,168 I really appreciate that. It certainly helped straighten things out in my mind. 668 00:54:22,239 --> 00:54:26,266 Mm. Anytime, Lieutenant. Thank you again. 669 00:54:26,343 --> 00:54:28,607 Oh. What, something else? 670 00:54:28,679 --> 00:54:30,613 I don't know what's the matter with me. 671 00:54:30,681 --> 00:54:34,276 - One other thing-- the angle of the bullet. - What about it? 672 00:54:34,351 --> 00:54:37,878 The bullet entered your husband's body at a 45-degree angle. 673 00:54:38,956 --> 00:54:40,787 What's the significance in that? 674 00:54:40,857 --> 00:54:44,349 Well, that means that your husband was standing, and-- 675 00:54:44,428 --> 00:54:46,328 See the way you're standing? 676 00:54:48,098 --> 00:54:50,828 - Oh, Leslie, I thought-- -Just the way you're standing. 677 00:54:50,901 --> 00:54:53,369 [ Echoing ] You see just the way you're standing. 678 00:54:53,437 --> 00:54:56,463 And the killer was sitting just the way I am. [ Echoing ] 679 00:54:56,540 --> 00:54:59,031 And from this position, 680 00:55:00,043 --> 00:55:04,173 the killer shot him. [ Echoing ] 681 00:55:05,916 --> 00:55:07,907 I'm sorry. I-- 682 00:55:09,186 --> 00:55:13,020 [ Exhales ] Uh, would you, uh-- 683 00:55:13,090 --> 00:55:15,524 A little water on... the table. 684 00:55:20,731 --> 00:55:23,291 Thank you. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. 685 00:55:23,367 --> 00:55:27,098 That's all right. That's all right. Please, go on with what you were saying. 686 00:55:27,170 --> 00:55:30,071 Listen, I can come back another time. Mm-mmm. No. 687 00:55:30,140 --> 00:55:32,665 Really, I'm all right. I want to hear. 688 00:55:32,743 --> 00:55:35,303 Are you sure you're all right? Mm-hmm. 689 00:55:35,379 --> 00:55:38,871 There's not much else to say about it. It's just-- 690 00:55:38,949 --> 00:55:41,349 It's just another one of those things that bothers me. 691 00:55:41,418 --> 00:55:44,910 Uh, I mean, what was your husband doin'? 692 00:55:44,988 --> 00:55:47,786 Was he just standing there... 693 00:55:47,858 --> 00:55:50,326 while some guy sitting down shot him? 694 00:55:50,394 --> 00:55:54,956 Well, at this point, uh, there's no way of really knowing what happened, is there? 695 00:55:55,032 --> 00:55:56,966 Right. You're right about that. 696 00:55:57,034 --> 00:55:58,968 Right. That's-- 697 00:55:59,036 --> 00:56:02,437 But the other thing, now, is peculiar. Something else? 698 00:56:02,506 --> 00:56:06,306 Your husband, he was shot with a .22-caliber revolver. So? 699 00:56:06,376 --> 00:56:09,311 Well, most criminals, they use a .3 2, maybe a .38. 700 00:56:09,379 --> 00:56:12,712 But this one was different? He sure was. 701 00:56:12,783 --> 00:56:15,877 And I tried to figure it. Why a .22? 702 00:56:15,952 --> 00:56:17,920 Hmm. That's interesting. 703 00:56:17,988 --> 00:56:20,422 Yes, you see, that is interesting. 704 00:56:20,490 --> 00:56:23,050 What if he wanted to fire into someone... 705 00:56:23,126 --> 00:56:27,426 and be reasonably certain that the bullet didn't have the velocity to go through the body? 706 00:56:27,497 --> 00:56:30,364 - But why? - Because he didn't want any trace of the crime... 707 00:56:30,434 --> 00:56:32,425 in the room where he shot him. 708 00:56:33,470 --> 00:56:37,270 Well, you've given these details of yours a lot of thought, Lieutenant. 709 00:56:37,340 --> 00:56:39,774 Listen, I know all these things don't seem like much. 710 00:56:39,843 --> 00:56:42,368 Put 'em all together, one of top of the other, 711 00:56:42,446 --> 00:56:47,042 and, I'm telling you, that kidnapping just doesn't add up. 712 00:56:47,117 --> 00:56:52,680 Let me understand you correctly. Are you implying that this was perhaps not an ordinary kidnapping? 713 00:56:52,756 --> 00:56:55,418 That's right. That's interesting, isn't it? 714 00:56:55,492 --> 00:56:57,926 Now, what if someone set out to murder your husband, 715 00:56:57,994 --> 00:57:00,189 and he only made it look like a kidnapping? 716 00:57:00,263 --> 00:57:02,197 And so the ransom money-- all that was a setup. 717 00:57:02,265 --> 00:57:04,199 Yes! That's possible. 718 00:57:04,267 --> 00:57:06,326 Look how that throws us off. 719 00:57:06,403 --> 00:57:08,769 We're looking for kidnappers that don't exist, 720 00:57:08,839 --> 00:57:12,935 and, in the meantime, the real killer is so close by we can't even see him. 721 00:57:13,009 --> 00:57:15,136 And all these little details of yours fall into place. 722 00:57:15,212 --> 00:57:17,373 The angle of the gun. Exactly. 723 00:57:17,447 --> 00:57:21,975 Shot by someone he knew while the murderer was sitting down. 724 00:57:22,052 --> 00:57:24,520 Caliber of the bullet. Right. 725 00:57:24,588 --> 00:57:26,579 Killed in a room where he didn't wanna leave any traces. 726 00:57:26,656 --> 00:57:28,920 No bullet holes in the wall, for example. 727 00:57:28,992 --> 00:57:33,395 The empty bag? That's a puzzler. I can't figure that one out yet. 728 00:57:33,463 --> 00:57:36,557 Lieutenant, in all honesty, I must tell you you have collected... 729 00:57:36,633 --> 00:57:39,727 one of the most absurd hypotheses I have ever heard. 730 00:57:39,803 --> 00:57:43,239 Nothing that you said proves anything one way or another. 731 00:57:43,306 --> 00:57:45,467 I know that. I'm not a lawyer, 732 00:57:45,542 --> 00:57:48,238 and maybe my theories are not as good as they should be. 733 00:57:48,311 --> 00:57:51,405 But, Mrs. Williams, I've been a cop for a long, long time, 734 00:57:51,481 --> 00:57:55,474 and after a few years, believe me, the old nose gets to be pretty good. 735 00:57:55,552 --> 00:57:57,543 What do you want from me? You know how you could help? 736 00:57:57,621 --> 00:58:00,317 If you would just talk to me about your husband yourself, 737 00:58:00,390 --> 00:58:02,324 then maybe I can come up with somebody-- 738 00:58:02,392 --> 00:58:04,383 a business associate, a friend, who knows-- 739 00:58:04,461 --> 00:58:07,362 but somebody who might have a motive to kill him. 740 00:58:07,430 --> 00:58:10,024 And if you can't? Federal men are working on the kidnapping. 741 00:58:10,100 --> 00:58:12,568 There's no harm done. 742 00:58:12,636 --> 00:58:15,400 Lieutenant, I don't hold with this murder theory of yours-- 743 00:58:15,472 --> 00:58:18,407 Mrs. Williams, you're perfectly within your rights. 744 00:58:18,475 --> 00:58:21,672 Lieutenant, let me finish. But I will do whatever I can to help you. 745 00:58:21,745 --> 00:58:25,772 Whoever it was killed my husband, for whatever reason, I want him found. 746 00:58:25,849 --> 00:58:27,840 I was hopin' you'd say that. 747 00:58:29,820 --> 00:58:34,348 Michael, Lt. Columbo and I will be at the airport if you need us. 748 00:58:34,424 --> 00:58:36,358 [ Phone Handset Clatters In Cradle ] Why will we be there? 749 00:58:36,426 --> 00:58:40,590 I try to get a few hours flying at least two days a week, and this is one of those days. 750 00:58:40,664 --> 00:58:43,599 Besides, I feel as if I want to get away from here. Come with me. We'll talk. 751 00:58:43,667 --> 00:58:46,261 Where, in a plane? 752 00:58:46,336 --> 00:58:48,861 Lieutenant, are you afraid of flying? 753 00:58:49,873 --> 00:58:53,365 Well, it's, uh-- It's not one of my favorite pastimes. 754 00:59:24,474 --> 00:59:26,806 [ Engine Accelerates ] 755 00:59:41,691 --> 00:59:44,990 It's a great release for me being up here, Lieutenant. 756 00:59:45,061 --> 00:59:48,155 All alone, totally free. 757 00:59:49,299 --> 00:59:51,927 I do some of my best thinking up here. 758 00:59:52,002 --> 00:59:55,665 No kidding? No kidding. [ Chuckles ] 759 01:00:06,683 --> 01:00:09,208 [ Sighs ] 760 01:00:09,286 --> 01:00:11,220 Uh, Mrs. Williams? Hmm? 761 01:00:11,288 --> 01:00:14,018 Would you not do that? You're nervous. 762 01:00:14,090 --> 01:00:16,024 No offense. I'm like this in a car. 763 01:00:16,092 --> 01:00:18,026 I'm always nervous when I'm not driving. 764 01:00:18,094 --> 01:00:21,086 Would you like to take over? I beg your pardon? 765 01:00:21,164 --> 01:00:23,632 I could teach you how to handle the plane in an hour. 766 01:00:23,700 --> 01:00:26,362 Oh, yes, well, really, that would be wasted on me. 767 01:00:26,436 --> 01:00:28,666 I don't intend to fly again. 768 01:00:28,738 --> 01:00:32,799 You make me feel terrible. Flying is a wonderful experience. I've ruined it for you. 769 01:00:32,876 --> 01:00:35,071 No, you haven't. I've never been crazy about flying actually. 770 01:00:35,145 --> 01:00:38,410 But that's because you've never done it. What we don't know, we fear. 771 01:00:38,481 --> 01:00:42,281 Take the controls. No, I'd rather not, thank you. 772 01:00:42,352 --> 01:00:44,343 Try it. I want you to feel what happens. 773 01:00:44,421 --> 01:00:47,015 Really, that's very, very kind of you, and I appreciate that. 774 01:00:47,090 --> 01:00:49,024 Why don't you just describe it to me? 775 01:00:49,092 --> 01:00:52,391 I want to show you how easy it is, Lieutenant. Are you ready? 776 01:00:52,462 --> 01:00:55,795 Ready for what? Here we go. 777 01:00:55,865 --> 01:00:58,766 Here. You take the controls. 778 01:01:07,444 --> 01:01:10,038 That's a mountain up ahead. 779 01:01:10,113 --> 01:01:12,604 What do I do? Turn the wheel to the left. 780 01:01:12,682 --> 01:01:15,412 Keep your feet off the rudder pedal. Pull back on the wheel, Lieutenant. 781 01:01:15,485 --> 01:01:17,544 No, no. Not too much. Not too much. 782 01:01:17,620 --> 01:01:19,850 You've overcorrected. Keep the plane's nose up. 783 01:01:19,923 --> 01:01:23,017 You have to treat the plane like a woman. You have to treat her gently. 784 01:01:23,093 --> 01:01:25,027 You have to treat her very gently. 785 01:01:25,095 --> 01:01:30,055 See? Watch out for that peak. Pull it up. Pull it up. 786 01:01:30,133 --> 01:01:32,363 Come on, Lieutenant. Up, up! 787 01:01:32,435 --> 01:01:34,096 Up. Pull it up. 788 01:01:36,706 --> 01:01:39,834 That was brilliant, Lieutenant. 789 01:01:39,909 --> 01:01:41,934 You're gonna make an ace pilot. 790 01:01:43,213 --> 01:01:45,147 There. 791 01:01:46,249 --> 01:01:48,717 Like it? 792 01:01:48,785 --> 01:01:51,276 I'd appreciate it if we didn't talk for a while. 793 01:01:52,322 --> 01:01:54,256 Sure. 794 01:02:04,067 --> 01:02:06,558 [ Breathes Deeply ] 795 01:02:09,339 --> 01:02:13,002 Can you talk yet? Not yet. 796 01:02:34,864 --> 01:02:37,059 [ Breathes Deeply ] 797 01:02:37,133 --> 01:02:39,431 Ready? Okay. 798 01:02:39,502 --> 01:02:43,461 Ask me anything. I'll try to help you any way I can. 799 01:02:43,540 --> 01:02:45,440 Did you ever teach your husband how to fly? 800 01:02:45,508 --> 01:02:49,103 Ah, no. He wouldn't learn. 801 01:02:51,014 --> 01:02:55,474 -Any other questions? - Um, well, Mrs. Williams, 802 01:02:55,552 --> 01:02:58,419 did your husband have any personal enemies? 803 01:02:58,488 --> 01:03:02,925 He didn't have any personal enemies. Everyone admired my husband. 804 01:03:02,992 --> 01:03:05,825 And he was respected by his fellow attorneys. 805 01:03:05,895 --> 01:03:11,663 They elected him president of the local bar association for five consecutive years. 806 01:03:11,734 --> 01:03:14,032 But, you know, sometimes behind the applause, 807 01:03:14,104 --> 01:03:18,097 there might be somebody who's envious, somebody resents all that success. 808 01:03:18,174 --> 01:03:22,167 If there was such a person, I never met him. What else? 809 01:03:22,245 --> 01:03:24,304 Yes? 810 01:03:24,380 --> 01:03:27,110 Um, this is not an easy question. 811 01:03:27,183 --> 01:03:29,344 - You understand that? - Go on. 812 01:03:29,419 --> 01:03:32,946 Did your husband ever have any relationships with any other women? 813 01:03:34,224 --> 01:03:37,421 My husband was never unfaithful to me. 814 01:03:37,494 --> 01:03:39,826 How do you know that? How can you be sure? 815 01:03:39,896 --> 01:03:44,492 Because he had a rigid code of ethics from which he never deviated. 816 01:03:44,567 --> 01:03:48,025 - Must have been quite a man. - There was nobody like him. 817 01:03:51,007 --> 01:03:54,033 I'm sorry I can't be of more help to you. No, it's all right. 818 01:03:54,110 --> 01:03:57,807 You've been of help. This is a process of elimination. You understand that? 819 01:04:00,049 --> 01:04:03,780 - No other questions? - No. No, I guess not. 820 01:04:03,853 --> 01:04:06,447 [ Inhales ] Then we'll head back. 821 01:04:55,605 --> 01:04:57,596 You all right? 822 01:04:57,674 --> 01:04:59,835 Oh, yeah. 823 01:04:59,909 --> 01:05:02,537 Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine. 824 01:05:02,612 --> 01:05:04,671 Did you enjoy yourself? 825 01:05:04,747 --> 01:05:08,274 Well, it was, uh-- It was quite an experience. Mm-hmm? 826 01:05:08,351 --> 01:05:10,546 I mean, I know what you mean now about relaxing up there. 827 01:05:10,620 --> 01:05:13,851 Because when I first started out, I was very tense, but now-- [ Chuckles ] 828 01:05:13,923 --> 01:05:16,983 Anytime. Anytime, Lieutenant. Yeah. 829 01:05:18,428 --> 01:05:21,295 Uh, say, uh-- 830 01:05:21,364 --> 01:05:24,527 You know, I have this cousin, Ralph. His name is Ralph. 831 01:05:25,568 --> 01:05:28,298 Anyway, Ralph was the greatest at everything, you know? 832 01:05:28,371 --> 01:05:32,000 He thought better, he talked better, he made out better. 833 01:05:32,075 --> 01:05:34,703 Ralph was the greatest. But I mean, Ralph-- 834 01:05:34,777 --> 01:05:39,680 Boy, that Ralph was somethin', I'll tell you that. I'll never forget him. 835 01:05:39,749 --> 01:05:42,547 Ah, is there a point to this story, Lieutenant? 836 01:05:43,686 --> 01:05:45,677 A point? A point. 837 01:05:45,755 --> 01:05:49,384 No, I don't think there's a point, except-- Well, maybe-- 838 01:05:49,459 --> 01:05:52,860 Maybe what it was is that when you were talking about your husband in the plane, 839 01:05:52,929 --> 01:05:55,159 I guess that reminded me of Ralph. 840 01:05:55,231 --> 01:05:58,632 You see, because Ralph, he was a bore. 841 01:05:58,701 --> 01:06:02,467 I mean, he was so perfect, there were times I felt like killin' him. 842 01:06:07,443 --> 01:06:11,106 [ Inhales ] Yes, well, 843 01:06:12,448 --> 01:06:14,541 I have to change now, Lieutenant. 844 01:06:29,799 --> 01:06:33,257 ??[ Radio: Jazz ] 845 01:06:54,924 --> 01:06:57,893 That's all, fellas. My mind is someplace else. 846 01:07:08,137 --> 01:07:10,071 [ Ashtray Clatters ] 847 01:07:10,139 --> 01:07:12,437 Hey, Lieutenant. What do you say, Bert? 848 01:07:12,508 --> 01:07:14,442 Aw, what's the use of kickin'? 849 01:07:16,779 --> 01:07:21,113 You know what's your trouble? You don't have much imagination. 850 01:07:21,184 --> 01:07:25,086 What do you mean by that? You always look at the menu, and you always order chili. 851 01:07:25,154 --> 01:07:27,145 By God, you know that's true. 852 01:07:29,692 --> 01:07:31,683 What'll it be? I'll have the chili, Bert. 853 01:07:31,761 --> 01:07:34,127 [ Chuckling ] See what I mean? 854 01:07:34,197 --> 01:07:37,724 Well, look at it this way. You'll never be disappointed. 855 01:07:37,800 --> 01:07:39,734 Hey, you got somethin' there. 856 01:07:41,371 --> 01:07:44,340 All right. Bowl of chili. 857 01:07:44,407 --> 01:07:46,432 For the lieutenant. Make it special. 858 01:08:00,957 --> 01:08:03,824 Lt. Columbo? 859 01:08:03,893 --> 01:08:05,986 Oh, yes? I'm Margaret Williams. 860 01:08:06,062 --> 01:08:10,362 You remember me? Oh, yes, of course. 861 01:08:10,433 --> 01:08:13,596 Yes. Uh, I just didn't expect to see you here. 862 01:08:13,669 --> 01:08:16,035 Listen, try the chili. You won't be sorry. 863 01:08:16,105 --> 01:08:18,039 Lieutenant, I came to see you. 864 01:08:18,107 --> 01:08:21,167 Well, what-what about? My father's murder. 865 01:08:21,244 --> 01:08:23,974 Listen, I'm terribly sorry about that. 866 01:08:24,046 --> 01:08:26,640 We just haven't been able to come up with anything on that. 867 01:08:28,818 --> 01:08:30,809 [ Utensils Clatter ] 868 01:08:32,488 --> 01:08:36,618 Well, I may have something. Are you sure you won't have something to eat? 869 01:08:36,692 --> 01:08:40,059 Lieutenant, this is very important. 870 01:08:40,129 --> 01:08:42,427 Oh, I'm sorry. Go ahead. 871 01:08:42,498 --> 01:08:44,489 I'm listening. 872 01:08:46,335 --> 01:08:50,669 Could we move to that booth over there? Oh, certainly. 873 01:09:05,588 --> 01:09:09,456 You see, it's, uh-- It's the crackers that make the dish. 874 01:09:14,096 --> 01:09:17,224 I think my stepmother may have had something to do with it. 875 01:09:17,300 --> 01:09:19,791 Now, you realize what you're saying? 876 01:09:19,869 --> 01:09:22,099 Yes. Then tell me. 877 01:09:22,171 --> 01:09:24,469 She never loved him. 878 01:09:24,540 --> 01:09:28,840 She used him to get what she wanted for herself-- a career. 879 01:09:28,911 --> 01:09:31,573 She used his name, his influence, 880 01:09:31,647 --> 01:09:34,445 so that she could become the famous lady lawyer. 881 01:09:34,517 --> 01:09:38,419 And to be a partner with my father was instant stature, 882 01:09:38,488 --> 01:09:40,752 instant success. 883 01:09:40,823 --> 01:09:42,757 Well, uh, when did all this start? 884 01:09:42,825 --> 01:09:44,884 Did this start while your mother was still alive? 885 01:09:44,961 --> 01:09:48,192 Yes, but he didn't have an affair with her. 886 01:09:48,264 --> 01:09:51,961 How can you be sure of that? I knew him. 887 01:09:52,034 --> 01:09:56,061 He was faithful to my mother all through those last years while she was dying. 888 01:09:56,138 --> 01:09:58,971 Well, when did they get together romantically? 889 01:09:59,041 --> 01:10:00,975 After my mother died. 890 01:10:01,043 --> 01:10:03,773 She talked him into leaving the state supreme court, 891 01:10:03,846 --> 01:10:06,041 something he'd worked for all his life. 892 01:10:06,115 --> 01:10:09,414 But he left it because he wanted to be with her. 893 01:10:12,021 --> 01:10:13,955 Is that when they became partners? 894 01:10:15,024 --> 01:10:17,219 That was the bait. 895 01:10:17,293 --> 01:10:19,659 He did that for her, so she married him. 896 01:10:19,729 --> 01:10:22,425 Why would she want to see him dead? 897 01:10:22,498 --> 01:10:25,661 My father came to visit me in Switzerland during last vacation. 898 01:10:25,735 --> 01:10:29,102 Then he told me what a fool he'd been, 899 01:10:29,171 --> 01:10:33,369 how she finally told him that she thought he was a bore-- 900 01:10:33,442 --> 01:10:38,345 a dull, tiresome old man-- and she wanted a new arrangement. 901 01:10:38,414 --> 01:10:40,609 He started to cry. 902 01:10:40,683 --> 01:10:44,847 I'd never seen him cry before. 903 01:10:44,921 --> 01:10:49,153 He was to quit the firm, turn it over to her. 904 01:10:49,225 --> 01:10:51,921 Then they were to live their separate lives. 905 01:10:51,994 --> 01:10:54,258 She didn't ask for a divorce, 906 01:10:54,330 --> 01:10:57,094 just that they share the house-- nothing more. 907 01:10:57,166 --> 01:11:01,432 He could never stomach living a lie like that, and he told her so. 908 01:11:01,504 --> 01:11:03,438 She just laughed at him. 909 01:11:07,276 --> 01:11:11,610 I put my arm around him. Didn't know what else to do. 910 01:11:13,749 --> 01:11:18,618 - So, what did he do? - He threatened to throw her out and close down the office. 911 01:11:18,688 --> 01:11:21,054 He dared to stand up to her. 912 01:11:21,123 --> 01:11:23,489 I think that's why he was killed. 913 01:11:23,559 --> 01:11:25,686 Well, now, look, Margaret, 914 01:11:25,761 --> 01:11:30,198 you've told me some reasons why maybe your stepmother might have a motive. 915 01:11:30,266 --> 01:11:33,758 - But they're all true. - I didn't say they weren't. 916 01:11:33,836 --> 01:11:38,296 But you don't have any proof of anything, and you don't have any evidence. 917 01:11:38,374 --> 01:11:40,968 All you have is your assumptions. 918 01:11:41,043 --> 01:11:43,978 You understand? Besides, how could she do it? 919 01:11:44,046 --> 01:11:47,140 What would she do, involve some other people? 920 01:11:48,818 --> 01:11:52,185 Hmm? That would be very risky, wouldn't it? 921 01:11:53,556 --> 01:11:57,253 No. You see, the only possible way would be-- 922 01:11:57,326 --> 01:12:01,353 - No. No, that's crazy. - What is it? 923 01:12:01,430 --> 01:12:05,196 Now, it just occurred to me that the only possible way... 924 01:12:05,267 --> 01:12:09,067 would be if somehow there never was a kidnapping. 925 01:12:09,138 --> 01:12:12,904 - She killed him, then set it up to look that way. - Now, I never said that. 926 01:12:12,975 --> 01:12:16,069 I mean, that's a crazy idea. I mean, forget that idea. 927 01:12:16,145 --> 01:12:18,909 Lieutenant, how do you go about proving something like that? 928 01:12:18,981 --> 01:12:21,006 Oh, goodness. I don't know how to do that. 929 01:12:21,083 --> 01:12:24,746 I think you got a crazy idea there. I think you oughta forget about it. 930 01:12:24,820 --> 01:12:28,688 Well, I'll be in touch with you, Lieutenant. 931 01:12:28,758 --> 01:12:31,386 All right. All right. 932 01:12:31,460 --> 01:12:34,122 You know, there might be something in the position of the car seat. 933 01:12:34,196 --> 01:12:36,289 Did you say something? 934 01:12:36,365 --> 01:12:39,596 I said there might be something in the position of the car seat. 935 01:12:39,669 --> 01:12:42,536 What car seat? Your father's car. 936 01:12:42,605 --> 01:12:44,539 The night they picked up your father's car, 937 01:12:44,607 --> 01:12:48,373 somebody noticed that the car seat had been moved forward. 938 01:12:51,781 --> 01:12:53,715 I don't understand. 939 01:12:53,783 --> 01:12:57,514 Your father's a very tall man, isn't he? He's 6 foot or better. 940 01:12:57,586 --> 01:13:02,216 Well, whoever drove that car last, they had moved the seat forward. 941 01:13:02,291 --> 01:13:04,418 Like a woman? Could be. 942 01:13:05,428 --> 01:13:08,829 And, of course, there's your father's keys. What about them? 943 01:13:08,898 --> 01:13:12,299 We never found them. Keys weren't in the car. 944 01:13:12,368 --> 01:13:14,495 And later on when we found your father's body, 945 01:13:14,570 --> 01:13:16,504 the keys weren't on the body either. 946 01:13:16,572 --> 01:13:19,939 - So? - Well, did you ever notice how, just out of habit, 947 01:13:20,009 --> 01:13:23,911 when you get out of a car, you automatically reach for the keys? 948 01:13:25,214 --> 01:13:30,743 You see, the last person out of that car instinctively took the keys with them. 949 01:13:30,820 --> 01:13:32,845 And may still have them. 950 01:13:40,162 --> 01:13:42,096 [ Door Opens ] 951 01:14:06,055 --> 01:14:07,989 Police Department? 952 01:14:08,057 --> 01:14:10,582 I'd like to speak to Lt. Columbo please. 953 01:14:29,979 --> 01:14:32,311 [ Softly ] Mrs. Williams. 954 01:14:33,716 --> 01:14:36,014 - [ Louder] Mrs. Williams. - [ Gasps ] 955 01:14:36,085 --> 01:14:39,054 What is it? I got the telephone call. I came right over. 956 01:14:39,121 --> 01:14:43,057 I didn't call you. I know that. It was your stepdaughter, Margaret. 957 01:14:43,125 --> 01:14:46,891 - How did you get in here? - She said she was gonna leave the door open. 958 01:14:46,962 --> 01:14:49,726 I don't understand. Why? Why did she call you? 959 01:14:49,799 --> 01:14:52,700 She said she had something to show me. Oh. 960 01:14:56,672 --> 01:14:59,436 Oh. Margaret? 961 01:14:59,508 --> 01:15:02,204 Margaret. You want me? 962 01:15:02,278 --> 01:15:05,406 Yes. Lt. Columbo is here to see you. 963 01:15:05,481 --> 01:15:08,780 No. I think he's here to see both of us. Are you? 964 01:15:08,851 --> 01:15:12,014 I thought he might like to know that I found these keys-- 965 01:15:12,087 --> 01:15:15,386 my father's key ring-- and in your bedroom. 966 01:15:16,992 --> 01:15:19,256 Margaret, you say these are your father's keys? 967 01:15:19,328 --> 01:15:24,061 Lieutenant, could you explain the importance of these keys? It isn't at all clear to me. 968 01:15:24,133 --> 01:15:26,124 You see, Mrs. Williams, it goes like this. 969 01:15:26,202 --> 01:15:29,638 The keys were not in the car, and they were not on your husband's body, 970 01:15:29,705 --> 01:15:31,866 so we were wondering what happened to 'em. 971 01:15:31,941 --> 01:15:33,875 My father was never kidnapped. 972 01:15:33,943 --> 01:15:37,379 - He came home that night, and you killed him.! - Oh, Margaret. 973 01:15:37,446 --> 01:15:40,540 Margaret, you really don't know what you're talking about. 974 01:15:40,616 --> 01:15:43,414 Yes, I do! Oh, Lieutenant, I can't do anything with her. 975 01:15:43,485 --> 01:15:46,215 She's been on the verge of hysteria-- It's true! You-- You killed him. It's true! 976 01:15:46,288 --> 01:15:50,156 Lieutenant, you know it's true. Wait a minute. just one moment. 977 01:15:50,226 --> 01:15:52,717 Go sit down. Sit down in that chair. 978 01:15:55,331 --> 01:15:57,265 Now listen to me, Margaret. 979 01:15:57,333 --> 01:16:00,097 What you're saying might mean something except for one point. 980 01:16:00,169 --> 01:16:02,637 These are not your father's keys. 981 01:16:02,705 --> 01:16:07,074 Margaret, I've had the house watched, and you had a locksmith up here yesterday. 982 01:16:07,142 --> 01:16:11,101 And I've got an invoice of every duplicate key you had made. 983 01:16:11,180 --> 01:16:16,584 I'm gonna overlook what you did this time, but I want you to remember something. Forging evidence is a crime. 984 01:16:16,652 --> 01:16:19,485 - But she killed him! - There is no proof of that. 985 01:16:19,555 --> 01:16:22,388 She did it! I know it, and you know it too! No, I don't know it. 986 01:16:22,458 --> 01:16:24,722 Yes, you do! No, I don't know-- 987 01:16:26,729 --> 01:16:29,892 Young lady, don't you ever do that again. 988 01:16:39,575 --> 01:16:43,705 - [ Door Slams ] - How could she think a thing like that, Lieutenant? 989 01:16:43,779 --> 01:16:45,838 I always knew that she resented me, 990 01:16:45,915 --> 01:16:48,179 but I never thought that she would go this far. 991 01:16:50,953 --> 01:16:53,012 I'm gonna have to tell you the truth, Mrs. Williams. 992 01:16:53,088 --> 01:16:55,716 Um, I knew how she felt. 993 01:16:55,791 --> 01:16:59,727 You see, the, uh-- The fact is-is she came to me the other day, 994 01:16:59,795 --> 01:17:02,559 and she told me that she thought you were involved. 995 01:17:04,166 --> 01:17:06,691 I told her it was a far-fetched idea. 996 01:17:06,769 --> 01:17:10,034 Yes, but you did manage to tell her about the missing keys. 997 01:17:10,105 --> 01:17:12,198 You never mentioned them to me. 998 01:17:12,274 --> 01:17:17,268 That wasn't among those... "little details'" that was bothering you so much. 999 01:17:17,346 --> 01:17:19,337 Well, now, Mrs. Williams, 1000 01:17:19,415 --> 01:17:22,612 if by some remote chance your stepdaughter had been right, 1001 01:17:22,685 --> 01:17:26,348 it wouldn't have been very smart for me to have told you, now would it? 1002 01:17:26,422 --> 01:17:29,755 - I understand. - Good afternoon, Mrs. Williams. 1003 01:17:35,331 --> 01:17:38,562 Lt. Columbo? Yeah? 1004 01:17:39,935 --> 01:17:42,597 Thank you for straightening Margaret out. I appreciate it. 1005 01:17:42,671 --> 01:17:45,003 Oh, it was the only thing I could do. 1006 01:17:45,074 --> 01:17:48,271 I just can't have you accused of murder on the wrong evidence. 1007 01:18:03,625 --> 01:18:06,287 I know you did it. 1008 01:18:06,362 --> 01:18:08,853 I know it. 1009 01:18:08,931 --> 01:18:10,922 I think you ought to see a doctor, Margaret. 1010 01:18:12,034 --> 01:18:14,195 Do you? Yes, I do. 1011 01:18:14,269 --> 01:18:16,362 I think you're a very sick girl. 1012 01:18:20,042 --> 01:18:25,446 You listening? Yes, but it's very difficult because I'm so sick. 1013 01:18:25,514 --> 01:18:27,539 Margaret. 1014 01:18:29,018 --> 01:18:31,885 Why don't you go back to Switzerland? 1015 01:18:31,954 --> 01:18:34,684 I'll put you up at a hotel until school opens. 1016 01:18:35,758 --> 01:18:39,592 I'm staying... right here. 1017 01:18:52,207 --> 01:18:57,110 You listen to me. You stay here only as long as you behave. 1018 01:18:57,179 --> 01:19:00,808 One more little drama, and I will not only cut off your allowance, 1019 01:19:00,883 --> 01:19:02,976 I will tie up your estate. 1020 01:19:03,052 --> 01:19:06,783 You will be on Social Security before you see a nickel of it. 1021 01:19:17,199 --> 01:19:20,259 Where will all your friends be then, Margaret, 1022 01:19:20,335 --> 01:19:23,304 when you haven't the money to buy them anymore? 1023 01:19:29,278 --> 01:19:33,180 [ Murmurs ] [ Footsteps Departing ] 1024 01:19:35,751 --> 01:19:37,742 [ Phone Rings ] 1025 01:19:39,588 --> 01:19:41,579 [ Rings ] 1026 01:19:43,625 --> 01:19:45,616 [ Rings ] Yes? 1027 01:19:45,694 --> 01:19:47,628 Oh, uh, Mrs. Williams? Yes? 1028 01:19:47,696 --> 01:19:51,723 This is Lt. Columbo. I was wondering if I might drop by to see you. 1029 01:19:51,800 --> 01:19:54,132 I got something to show you. I think you'll really appreciate it. 1030 01:19:56,538 --> 01:19:59,939 It's for you. Some stunt, huh? 1031 01:20:00,008 --> 01:20:03,500 I remembered how you like gadgets. I thought you'd get a kick out of it. 1032 01:20:03,579 --> 01:20:07,982 Somethin' you could show at parties, somethin' to amuse your friends with, like that. 1033 01:20:08,050 --> 01:20:10,883 Would you like to tell me how you did it? It was nothin' to it. 1034 01:20:10,953 --> 01:20:13,251 I got one of these special phones of yours, 1035 01:20:13,322 --> 01:20:15,415 I got a tape machine and I got a timer. 1036 01:20:15,491 --> 01:20:18,460 And I rigged it up, and that was it. 1037 01:20:18,527 --> 01:20:20,961 I'm very busy, Lieutenant. 1038 01:20:21,029 --> 01:20:23,896 Would you like to tell me what this has to do with my husband's murder? 1039 01:20:23,966 --> 01:20:28,426 You see, I can't get anything past you. You really got me pegged. 1040 01:20:28,504 --> 01:20:32,304 I'll tell you what it is. It just shows that your husband... 1041 01:20:32,374 --> 01:20:34,569 could have been dead at the time of the phone call, 1042 01:20:34,643 --> 01:20:38,374 that his voice could have come from carefully edited tapes from your office. 1043 01:20:38,447 --> 01:20:42,008 [ Inhales ] You know, Columbo, 1044 01:20:42,084 --> 01:20:45,019 you're almost likeable in a shabby sort of way. 1045 01:20:45,087 --> 01:20:47,783 Maybe it's the way you come slouching in here... 1046 01:20:47,856 --> 01:20:50,689 with your shopworn bag of tricks. 1047 01:20:50,759 --> 01:20:53,250 Me? Tricks? 1048 01:20:53,328 --> 01:20:57,287 The humility, the seeming absentmindedness, 1049 01:20:57,366 --> 01:21:00,301 the, uh, homey anecdotes about the family, 1050 01:21:00,369 --> 01:21:03,395 [ Chuckling ] the wife, you know? 1051 01:21:03,472 --> 01:21:06,600 - Really? - Yeah, Lt. Columbo... 1052 01:21:06,675 --> 01:21:09,269 fumbling and stumbling along, 1053 01:21:09,344 --> 01:21:11,938 but it's always the jugular that he's after. 1054 01:21:12,014 --> 01:21:16,576 And I imagine that, more often than not, he's successful. 1055 01:21:16,652 --> 01:21:20,452 I appreciate that compliment, Mrs. Williams, and I particularly appreciate it coming from you. 1056 01:21:20,522 --> 01:21:24,219 I must tell you I'm disappointed in you, Lieutenant. 1057 01:21:24,293 --> 01:21:26,761 I'm really very disappointed. How's that? 1058 01:21:26,828 --> 01:21:31,197 You've reduced yourself-- from veiled threats and insinuations... 1059 01:21:31,266 --> 01:21:33,200 to vaudeville. 1060 01:21:33,268 --> 01:21:36,396 Now, what did you really expect to achieve by this tasteless stunt? 1061 01:21:36,471 --> 01:21:39,872 Did you expect me to throw myself at your feet confessing? 1062 01:21:39,942 --> 01:21:43,400 No. No, I didn't think you'd do that. Then what good did it do? 1063 01:21:43,478 --> 01:21:46,413 I just add it up with all the other details, 1064 01:21:46,481 --> 01:21:49,382 and, after a while, you're able to see what really might have happened. 1065 01:21:49,451 --> 01:21:52,818 ""Might have.'' ""Could have.'' Those aren't phrases that hold up in court. 1066 01:21:52,888 --> 01:21:55,118 You'd be thrown out for lack of evidence. 1067 01:21:55,190 --> 01:21:58,489 Yeah, but, you know, justice is strange, counselor. 1068 01:21:58,560 --> 01:22:01,757 With some people, it's not enough just to be acquitted. 1069 01:22:01,830 --> 01:22:05,266 With some people, it's also necessary to convince the public... 1070 01:22:05,334 --> 01:22:07,325 by producing the guilty party as well. 1071 01:22:07,402 --> 01:22:10,667 I'm familiar with the Perry Mason school of justice, Lieutenant. 1072 01:22:10,739 --> 01:22:12,673 It's not a bad tactic-- 1073 01:22:12,741 --> 01:22:17,110 threaten to ruin my reputation by accusation, create a doubt about me. 1074 01:22:17,179 --> 01:22:19,113 But then there's always the other side. 1075 01:22:19,181 --> 01:22:23,242 I could always show that you were hounding me, maliciously persecuting me. 1076 01:22:23,318 --> 01:22:25,752 You're playing a weak hand, Lieutenant. 1077 01:22:25,821 --> 01:22:28,756 Either arrest me or get out of here. 1078 01:22:31,426 --> 01:22:33,451 I'm gonna have to tell you the truth. 1079 01:22:34,696 --> 01:22:37,256 Department took me off the case. 1080 01:22:37,332 --> 01:22:41,200 There's just nothin' concrete, nothin' to give to a D.A., 1081 01:22:41,270 --> 01:22:44,603 and there's a murder out in Malibu they want me to look into. [ Sighs ] Oh. 1082 01:22:44,673 --> 01:22:47,665 And you couldn't bear to leave without saying good-bye, huh? 1083 01:22:47,743 --> 01:22:51,201 That's right. That's right. 1084 01:22:58,820 --> 01:23:01,846 After all that, I almost forgot to say it. 1085 01:23:01,923 --> 01:23:06,383 - Good-bye, Mrs. Williams. - Good-bye, Lieutenant. 1086 01:23:52,441 --> 01:23:54,636 [ Margaret ] Hello. [ Gunshot ] 1087 01:23:54,710 --> 01:23:57,144 - [ Gasps ] - How do you like it, Leslie? 1088 01:23:57,212 --> 01:24:01,512 just giving you the same kind of welcome home you gave my father. 1089 01:24:15,330 --> 01:24:17,321 - [ Murmurs ] - Stop, Leslie. 1090 01:24:28,510 --> 01:24:30,705 The first one was a blank. 1091 01:24:30,779 --> 01:24:34,772 But who knows? The next one may be the real thing. 1092 01:24:40,322 --> 01:24:42,586 Margaret, just let me go by. just let me-- 1093 01:24:49,998 --> 01:24:53,126 Nothing. There's nothing in that gun. 1094 01:24:55,237 --> 01:24:59,105 There's nothing, nothing in that gun! 1095 01:24:59,174 --> 01:25:01,165 Margaret! 1096 01:25:02,711 --> 01:25:04,702 Margaret! 1097 01:25:15,090 --> 01:25:17,024 [ Gasps ] 1098 01:25:17,092 --> 01:25:19,026 [ Margaret's Voice ] My father was never kidnapped. 1099 01:25:19,094 --> 01:25:21,324 He came home that night, and you killed him. 1100 01:25:21,396 --> 01:25:23,990 I know you did it. I know it. 1101 01:25:24,065 --> 01:25:27,694 [ Echoing ] I know it. I know it. I know it. I know it. 1102 01:25:27,769 --> 01:25:30,863 [ Echoing Fades ] I know it. I know it. 1103 01:25:34,209 --> 01:25:36,200 Margaret! 1104 01:25:59,501 --> 01:26:01,435 Is that what you want? 1105 01:26:01,503 --> 01:26:04,028 Out! Out! I want you out of this house tonight! 1106 01:26:06,975 --> 01:26:09,876 Even if you throw me out, Leslie, I won't stop. 1107 01:26:09,945 --> 01:26:12,004 I'll hound you, humiliate you, embarrass you. 1108 01:26:12,080 --> 01:26:14,674 Get packed! 1109 01:26:21,323 --> 01:26:25,054 You used all of my trust account to pay the ransom, 1110 01:26:25,126 --> 01:26:28,892 and now you think you can get away with my share of the estate too? 1111 01:26:28,964 --> 01:26:31,023 You're not going to get away with it. 1112 01:26:31,099 --> 01:26:33,397 I want what's mine. 1113 01:26:39,374 --> 01:26:41,365 You want to negotiate, don't you? 1114 01:26:41,443 --> 01:26:43,934 I just want what's coming to me. 1115 01:26:51,686 --> 01:26:53,677 [ Sighs ] 1116 01:26:55,991 --> 01:26:57,982 I'll give you 20,000 a year for five years. 1117 01:26:58,059 --> 01:27:00,220 That will take you into your trust. 1118 01:27:03,832 --> 01:27:06,699 My trust account was for 25 a year... 1119 01:27:06,768 --> 01:27:10,636 plus a bonus of 5,000-- all in cash. 1120 01:27:13,942 --> 01:27:15,933 You are some little girl. 1121 01:27:19,548 --> 01:27:23,575 All right, if you're on the plane tomorrow. 1122 01:27:23,652 --> 01:27:25,950 Excuse me. 1123 01:27:26,021 --> 01:27:27,955 I have a lot of packing to do. 1124 01:27:40,635 --> 01:27:43,365 [ Footsteps ] 1125 01:27:43,438 --> 01:27:47,033 [ Airport Chatter ] 1126 01:27:57,118 --> 01:28:00,087 When you arrive at Zurich, Mr. Steiner will meet you at the airport. 1127 01:28:00,155 --> 01:28:02,350 He'll take you to the bank and open an account for you. 1128 01:28:07,662 --> 01:28:11,621 Good-bye, Margaret. Good-bye, Leslie. 1129 01:28:34,155 --> 01:28:36,146 [ Women Chattering ] 1130 01:28:37,892 --> 01:28:39,860 Lt. Columbo. 1131 01:28:42,097 --> 01:28:45,726 Mrs. Williams. Pursuing or extraditing? 1132 01:28:45,800 --> 01:28:49,167 Nah. Nah, just waiting. 1133 01:28:49,237 --> 01:28:51,831 You seem depressed. Did a criminal get away? 1134 01:28:53,241 --> 01:28:56,472 Come on. I'll buy you a drink for consolation. 1135 01:28:56,544 --> 01:28:58,944 I hate to see you unhappy. 1136 01:29:00,215 --> 01:29:05,084 You know, that's very nice of you. I have a heart. I do. 1137 01:29:05,153 --> 01:29:07,348 [ Chuckling ] 1138 01:29:15,163 --> 01:29:19,224 [ Woman On P.A.] Flight 26 to Phoenix, Denver and Fort Worth... 1139 01:29:19,300 --> 01:29:21,291 now loading at Gate 1 1. 1140 01:29:21,369 --> 01:29:24,167 [ Announcement Continues, Indistinct ] [ Sighs ] 1141 01:29:24,239 --> 01:29:26,264 Yes? What will you have, Lieutenant? 1142 01:29:26,341 --> 01:29:29,071 - After you. - Sherry. 1143 01:29:29,144 --> 01:29:33,376 - I'll have a root beer. - The root beer? 1144 01:29:33,448 --> 01:29:38,215 [ Chuckling ] Lieutenant, you always manage to make me feel decadent. I do? 1145 01:29:38,286 --> 01:29:40,982 Mm-hmm. Gee, I never knew that. I'm sorry. 1146 01:29:41,056 --> 01:29:44,219 It's nothin' personal. You understand that? Oh, I understand. 1147 01:29:45,226 --> 01:29:47,421 I'm gonna miss you, Lieutenant, 1148 01:29:47,495 --> 01:29:51,124 you and all your fascinating little details. 1149 01:29:51,199 --> 01:29:54,134 You know, you're somethin'. 1150 01:29:54,202 --> 01:29:56,727 You really are somethin'. 1151 01:29:56,805 --> 01:30:00,070 - I'm gonna try and take that as a compliment. - Oh, it is. 1152 01:30:00,141 --> 01:30:02,268 Is it? Believe me. 1153 01:30:02,343 --> 01:30:05,210 [ Woman On P.A.] All persons meeting incoming flights... 1154 01:30:05,280 --> 01:30:10,115 - are requested not to go beyond the reception areas-- - To you. 1155 01:30:10,185 --> 01:30:12,949 Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. 1156 01:30:13,021 --> 01:30:14,955 Here's lookin' at ya, Mrs. Williams. 1157 01:30:20,595 --> 01:30:24,292 You know, for a while there, I thought, ""I'll never get her.'' 1158 01:30:24,365 --> 01:30:29,860 All those little details, they just didn't make it. There was nothing conclusive. 1159 01:30:29,938 --> 01:30:34,341 - And then I thought, ""It's gotta be the money.'' - What money? 1160 01:30:34,409 --> 01:30:38,641 The ransom money. When a person engineers a false kidnapping, 1161 01:30:38,713 --> 01:30:41,307 they have to have the money hidden somewhere. 1162 01:30:41,382 --> 01:30:46,046 Now, it cleaned you out to raise the ransom, so I thought, 1163 01:30:46,121 --> 01:30:50,751 "I gotta find a way to force her to use the ransom money. '" 1164 01:30:50,825 --> 01:30:54,158 Thank you very much. It seemed like a nutty idea to everybody. 1165 01:30:54,229 --> 01:30:59,428 I know it did to my wife, but I believed in it because, 1166 01:30:59,501 --> 01:31:03,232 Mrs. Williams, you have no conscience, 1167 01:31:03,304 --> 01:31:05,704 and that's your weakness. 1168 01:31:05,774 --> 01:31:08,709 Did it ever occur to you that there are very few people... 1169 01:31:08,777 --> 01:31:11,746 that would take money to forget about a murder? 1170 01:31:11,813 --> 01:31:15,476 It didn't, did it? I knew it wouldn't. 1171 01:31:15,550 --> 01:31:18,883 No conscience-- limits your imagination. 1172 01:31:18,953 --> 01:31:24,289 You can't conceive of anybody being any different than what you are, 1173 01:31:24,359 --> 01:31:27,021 and you're greedy. 1174 01:31:27,095 --> 01:31:32,158 And that's why, as bright as you are-- and you're bright-- 1175 01:31:32,233 --> 01:31:34,929 you believed that Margaret could be bought. 1176 01:31:36,337 --> 01:31:38,737 - [ Woman On P.A., Indistinct ] - Get to the point. 1177 01:31:38,807 --> 01:31:42,903 - Come on. Get to the point. - Well, here's the point, Mrs. Williams. 1178 01:31:42,977 --> 01:31:45,275 You see? 1179 01:31:47,248 --> 01:31:51,548 You were set up. I arranged it all with Margaret. 1180 01:31:53,588 --> 01:31:55,749 I told Margaret that if she really wanted to nail you, 1181 01:31:55,824 --> 01:31:59,157 she had to force you to use the ransom money. 1182 01:32:01,963 --> 01:32:03,931 Oh. [ Sighs ] 1183 01:32:08,803 --> 01:32:11,033 You're very lucky, Lieutenant. 1184 01:32:18,646 --> 01:32:21,114 No. 1185 01:32:21,182 --> 01:32:23,412 Congratulations. You're very smart. 1186 01:32:23,484 --> 01:32:27,420 - So are you. - Thank you. 1187 01:32:27,488 --> 01:32:29,479 [ Footsteps Approaching ] 1188 01:32:29,557 --> 01:32:31,752 Forgive the charade about the briefcase, 1189 01:32:31,826 --> 01:32:35,023 but we had to make sure the money was in there before we arrested you. 1190 01:32:35,096 --> 01:32:38,657 I had no alternative. Would you like to finish your sherry? 1191 01:32:38,733 --> 01:32:40,997 I don't think I want any more. 1192 01:32:42,804 --> 01:32:46,296 Would you advise Mrs. Williams of her rights and drive her downtown. 1193 01:33:02,056 --> 01:33:04,047 [ Sighs ] 1194 01:33:05,593 --> 01:33:10,656 [ Woman On P.A.] Dr. Paul Bailey, please report to the international ticket counter. 1195 01:33:10,732 --> 01:33:12,700 Dr. Paul Bailey, please. 1196 01:33:12,767 --> 01:33:15,099 That'll be $1 .1 0, please. 1197 01:33:15,169 --> 01:33:17,160 Oh, yeah. 1198 01:33:18,740 --> 01:33:21,675 I'll be with ya in one minute. Um-- 1199 01:33:21,743 --> 01:33:24,507 Uh-- 1200 01:33:24,579 --> 01:33:28,879 Uh, would you mind if I signed for this? 1201 01:33:28,950 --> 01:33:32,386 Uh, I'm from the police. Lt. Columbo. 1202 01:33:32,453 --> 01:33:35,115 I guess that'll be all right. All right, fine. 1203 01:33:36,658 --> 01:33:38,649 Now. 1204 01:33:43,598 --> 01:33:45,589 Oh. Thank you very much.