Original subtitles

Get your morning paper. Read all about it.

Get your morning paper.

Huh. Crime commissions gonna clean things up.

Sure. Sure.

Get your morning paper.

Get your morning paper. Read all about it.

Get your morning paper. Read all about it.

Read all about it in the paper. Get your morning paper.

Read all about it.

Governor, Mr. Craig has arrived.

Have him come in.

Governor, we need your help.

Its no longer a question of dealing with local crime.

The big syndicate, national in scope

has already moved into our city

and is starting to operate.

Gentleman, this is our chief investigator, Harry Craig.

How do you do, Craig? How do you do, sir?

Sit down. Thank you.

Lets have the dirt.

Go ahead, Harry.

Well, governor, I dont suppose youve seen our morning papers.

I see we made the headlines.

Whats really happening?

Big stuff.

Id like to begin by calling your attention

to a small item buried in the back.

It says that police captain Tom McQuigg

has been transferred again.

This time to precinct seven.

Yes?

Captain McQuigg is an honest, hard-hitting

able police official.

Not a black mark on his record.

Proving what?

Official corruption is helping promote crime.

McQuigg is an honest cop, therefore an enemy.

Therefore he gets pushed around.

Who does the pushing?

The men the underworld elect. You have proof?

Were working on it.

First, theres Nick Scanlon, the old boss of the rackets.

Hes operated in our city for years.

He calls it his city.

But now, hes part of a big syndicate.

A very smooth, a very big-time operation.

This syndicate, as I explained to you, governor

is run by a man very powerful, but unknown

and referred to only as the old man.

This syndicate hopes to operate unchecked, as a vast monopoly

controlling all gambling, all vice, all rackets

and the millions of dollars that entails.

Thousands of which are to be used

for purposes of bribery.

Right now theyve got the assistant states attorney

in their pocket.

Mortimer Welsh.

Theyre running him for judge.

Once he gets on the bench..

Serious charges, Craig.

You have to prove them.

We need the power of subpoena.

And above all, governor, our biggest need

is to break our evidence just before the election

in order to stop this bare-faced steal of the city.

Gentleman, let me say this.

Im with you to the finish.

Ill take up the matter of subpoenas at once.

But in regard to all the rest

I must have proof, absolute proof.

Give it to me, and you have my word

Ill go with you all the way down the line.

How about the rest of you, gentlemen?

Have you anything to add?

No, governor. Thats it, governor.

Alright. Thank you very much.

Hows Nick this morning?

Kind of restless.

When did you get in? Last night.

Whats Durko doing here?

Back working for Nick.

You know how burned Nick was when they sent him up.

Did the old man spring him?

No. Nick.

Here we go again.

Listen, Mannick, did Nick seem to be okay today

outside of being restless?

Yeah, I guess so.

Alright, heres the scorecard.

That guy, Higgins, that guy the old man was grooming

spilled to the crime commission.

I just got the tip. Wow.

Yeah, straight.

And its a cinch, Nick dont know about it yet--

Wheres Tony? Uh, just about due, Nick.

What are you guys cooking up?

How do you mean, Nick?

We gotta think of something.

Nicks gonna blow his top when he hears about Higgins

now that hes got that old torpedo back.

Nicks gotta be softened up someway.

Yes, thats right.

The old man will take care of Higgins his way

and itll be neat. None of this rip-and-tear stuff, providing--

Hes waiting for you.

Im right on time. Always right on time for Nick.

He doesnt like to wait. He gets nervous.

Tony..

youve been shaving Nick a long time, right?

Sure. Long time. Why?

You and him, youre pretty close, right?

Sure. Close. Say, I better--

Hes paid you out plenty of dough, right?

You wanna do him a favor?

Me do Nick a favor? How?

Look, Tony, nobody can talk to Nick.

Nobody can tell him anything. You know what I mean?

Sure, I know. Maybe you could.

Mr. Mannick, please

I mind my own business. I dont--

Off-hand, you know what I mean?

Like barber conversation.

Yak, yak, yak.

Only it means something

like how the worlds changing

how things arent the same anymore

how a guys gotta be careful

and not keep on in the same old rut.

Get smart. Yeah, Tony, see what he means?

Just conversation.

Nick cant get sore with that.

Yeah, sure, I give him that kind of conversation alright, but--

But, what? But Nick is no fool.

Tony maybe not so smart like Nick

but he understands.

Oh, no, no, no.

I do this for Nick.

You know, I dont seem to get around

as fast as I used to, Nick.

I got two grandchildren now.

That so?

Yeah. I got a son married and a daughter.

Sons-in-law, theyre all the same..

not like me.

We talk. We talk.

I dont understand.

Yeah?

Hows that?

Well, the world is changing, maybe.

Too fast. Maybe I stay the same.

My kids are different.

My son-in-law

my daughter-in-law, shes different.

No, things seem is very easy for them, hard for me.

Go ahead, Tony.

This is interesting. Thats all, Nick.

The world has changed.

Maybe, I have trouble because I dont change.

Whats the matter?

Thats what I say. Im getting old.

My hand is not so steady like it used to be.

Thats too bad.

I got a tender skin.

Wait a minute.

Were you talking to Mannick before you came in here?

Yes, Nick. What about?

What about?

About me, Tony? No.

Tony, when you let guys use you..

be sure theyre smart guys.

Ill be back.

Get inside.

Alright.

Spill. What is it? What is what, Nick?

You got something to say, say it to me.

Dont try to prime Tony. Why, that--

Do you think he had to tell me?

How do you think I got where I did?

Not by being outsmarted by clucks like you.

Well?

Its your story.

Nick, I, I gotta tell you, this Higgins guy.

Yeah?

He, he spilled to the crime commission.

He did, eh? Yeah, straight tip.

Yeah, Nick. And the old mans sure gonna take care of him.

How, by paying his fare out of town

so he can come back and talk again?

Nick, the old man, hell..

I guess I didnt spring Durko none too soon.

Harry! Good morning, Foster.

Its good to see you. How did it go?

Thank you. Fine. How was the trip?

Not bad. Howd the governor take it?

Like a man. And the commission?

Shocked and fighting mad.

Are they really going to back us?

Playing rough? Get any sleep?

Not much.

Theyre meeting here Saturday.

To consider our evidence?

If we can prove it, theyll hang them.

Well, look at Higgins alone. I figure 126 years.

Only Higgins?

Earning for tax reports

sixty bucks a week.

And banking 600. In four different banks.

Whats the plural of bigamy? Oh, we cant prove that yet.

His friends even get their laundry mixed up.

So Higgins was a romantic? Oh, versatile.

You name it, Higgins did it, and well prove it.

Well, this is all fine, but--

Where does it lead? Exactly.

Higgins was up to his armpits in the Acme Real Estate Company.

Are you sure?

Weve had two sessions with him.

Would he talk?

All lies, but they led to this.

Well, get him back.

Oh, hes coming back. Voluntarily.

To explain some little discrepancies.

In about five minutes.

Yes, indeed. A beautiful morning.

Beautiful for Welsh.

Our candidate.

Yes, were giving Welsh a great opportunity

for public service.

Youre late, Higgins.

Connolly, wheres the old man?

Hes not in.

He promised me that judgeship.

He changed his mind.

Whoever heard of Welsh? Thats the point.

Alright. Tell the old man Im through!

Hes reconciled to that.

Now, if you will just sign this plea.

Oh, Connolly, I-I lost my head. I didnt really--

Just there at the bottom.

If I do, is everything okay? Sign it.

Now, if youll stamp this, Davis.

Notary. Your notary stamp, Davis.

Oh, sure, sure. Im a notary.

Hello, Higgins.

Why, why, hello, Mr. Scanlon.

Didnt know you ever came up here.

Down? Hold it, son.

This mans going with you.

Thanks, Mr. Scanlon.

Thanks.

Blow, shyster.

All settled, Nick

just as the old man told you it would be.

Signed and witnessed.

You boys got a lot of faith in human nature.

He talked once before. Hell talk again.

Either a mans the type who talks or hes not.

Higgins is the type.

Now, he may or he may not be.

Anyway this stops it.

So this is the fancy Dan Operation

Ive been hearing about.

This is it.

Quite an improvement, dont you think?

Not so much for the coroner to do.

He gets paid.

When we take over the operation of a city--

This is my city, bright boy!

Just an expression, Nick.

But now that youre associated with us

youll be seeing a lot of new techniques.

Like this one?

Youd handle it differently, no doubt.

A little rougher, maybe.

Nick, with our organization

those methods are no longer feasible.

No longer feasible, he says.

The old man considers physical violence outmoded

unnecessary.

What do you know?

I think Higgins had an accident down there.

Nick!

He just fell. Like that. His heart, maybe.

Hey, this guys been shot. Shot?

Im gonna beat that light.

Watch it. Copper.

You guys in a hurry or something?

Sorry, officer.

I gotta get these brakes adjusted.

Okay, okay. Go ahead.

Johnson, a guy got shot just around the corner on Oak.

Be on the lookout for a limousine driven by

Ah.

I thought so.

Manslaughter. Extortion. Larceny.

And parole.

Get me a wanted report.

This is the kind of thing the old man hates

and is changing.

Too many loose ends.

Too much emphasis on the physical.

Im quoting, as you know, Turk.

Could you quote some more?

Policy?

Yeah, policy.

Nick Scanlon.

Theres an election coming up.

Maybe after thats over..

The old man moves cautiously.

Give a man enough rope, he says.

Ah.

What was the circulation of this report, all departments?

Mhm-hm.

What district is Johnson in?

McQuiggs.

Whats the matter with Nick?

Whats he using for brains? McQuiggs poison.

Since were talking about McQuigg

cant something be done about him? Cant the old man--

Too much has been done about McQuigg as it is.

Hes been shifted, exiled, you might say

but he always crops up.

Thats what I mean.

McQuiggs got a great reputation.

Do I have to remind you again about the election?

If we bust McQuigg

every newspaper in town will be down on us.

Theyll want to know, Why, why?

Sure, but newspaper readers forget fast.

It goes in one eye and out the other.

Why cant McQuigg cooperate?

Weve given him every chance.

Maybe hes honest.

Alright, Turk. This is your baby.

See what you can do with it.

So he says, How do you like your new captain?

I says, Ive been in the army.

Im used to hard-boiled top kicks.

McQuigg is a good policeman.

I dont know about good but hes the toughest so-and-so

Ive ever met on the force.

Tears the whole place upside down in one week.

Well, it needed it.

This aint a hot spot.

Hey, you a relative or something, Johnson?

No, I just think policemen should be tough and honest.

Please, no speeches. Its just a job.

If its a job, get on it. Time for inspection.

Oh, hes got you too, eh, Delaney?

You a comedian?

Lets go.

Hurry it up, men.

Ten-hut!

Ready, captain.

Boys, you dont know me and I dont know you.

I run a precinct one way.

We might as well understand each other right now.

I have rules and I make no exceptions.

Our job is protecting the public

the taxpayer.

Dont ever forget that.

I will not stand for laxity, slovenliness or second best.

You do your jobs right or youll hear from me.

As for dishonesty or shady stuff

one time and youre out.

Theres no excuse for it.

What happens in other precincts is none of our business.

Our job is to just make sure that our own house is clean.

If a man breaks the law and you see him, arrest him.

I dont care who he is or what influence hes got.

Ill take the responsibility.

Understand that?

Alright. Okay, men. Dismissed.

Johnson. Yes, sir.

That was a nice make, Johnson.

Good work. Thanks, captain.

Hi.

City hall on fire?

Im hiding out from the new crime commission.

They must know where to start.

All reformers start well.

Well, at least they got you out in the daylight.

Your districts safe in daylight.

Whats up, Turk?

Your beat man, Johnson, turned in a good make.

Yeah, I know. I just commended him on it.

Whats Johnson like? Ambitious?

In the right way, yeah.

What else? Everything youre not.

That covers a lot of territory.

Combat veteran, third man in the civil service exams.

Clean record, no relatives, no pull, no politics.

Poor kid.

Hell learn. No.

Its political pets like you

who will learn from kids like Johnson.

Can I start now?

Oh, send Johnson in, will you? Yes, sir.

Johnson, the captain wants you.

Johnson, this is Sergeant Turk

of the states attorneys

Special Investigation Department.

This is a good make, Johnson. Thanks.

If youre sure it was Durko. Positive.

But you didnt recognize the other man?

No.

Even after youd run the files?

Hes not in the files. Whats this all about, Turk?

Our department wants Durko.

Then find him and pinch him.

Yeah, but if your beat men scare him prematurely

Murderers in my district will be pinched on sight!

You tell the states attorney so from me.

Keep your shirt on, Mac.

Nice work, Johnson.

Captain.

Captain, am I dumb or is someone trying to cover up something?

When I think youre dumb, Johnson, Ill let you know.

Johnson, how would you like a special assignment on this?

Very much, sir.

Alright, youre relieved of beat duty.

Thank you, sir.

Captain, whos big enough to buy Durko out

for a job like this?

You just stick to detail. Let me worry about the rest.

Yes, sir.

Officer, Id like to file a complaint.

Well, madam?

I havent been kissed all day.

Oh!

How would you feel if I had the night shift?

Indignant.

Well, Ive heard the days can be very beautiful

this time of year.

Was today beautiful for you?

I dug up some more stuff on Durko.

He must have quite a record. Yeah.

Manslaughter. Larceny.

Extortion.

He killed a policeman in Cincinnati, they think.

But they couldnt indict him.

How can men like that ever be paroled?

Well, suppose you needed a killer

where would you go to get him?

Bob, is it worth it? What do you mean?

Risking your neck to arrest men like that

so the higher-ups can turn them loose again.

Well, this policeman they think he shot had three kids.

Well, what if we had three kids?

Youd be half done. I want six.

But, Bob, Im serious.

Hurry up with dinner, will you, Lucy?

Well, whats your rush?

Ive got to get back to the station.

Oh, no.

Not tonight.

Were celebrating.

Ive got to keep moving on this case.

Celebrating what?

Well, what do you think Ive been trying to tell you?

Ill bite. What?

I hope they never make you a detective!

Lucy, darling!

Is Nick here? Ill see, sir.

Who shall I say is calling? McQuigg.

Oh, yes, Mr. McQuigg. Step in, please.

But, Mr. McQuigg, I..

Hello, Tom. Hello, Nick.

Come right in. Dont stand on ceremony.

Butler? Dont stand on ceremony?

Nick, I hardly know you.

Been a long time.

Not much like the old tenth ward, eh, Tom?

Not much, no.

I hear youre living in the same old dump.

House is the word.

I like dump better.

I dont think Id feel comfortable here.

Too much like the lobby of the Palace Theater.

Honesty dont pay off, eh, Tom?

Or maybe its just dumbness.

You ought to know all about dumbness.

You think it was smart killing Higgins?

Whos Higgins?

He was just walking down the street

minding his own business.

In my district.

I never set foot in your district.

Dont.

Of course, as a free citizen and a taxpayer..

A what?

I pay taxes.

I keep books.

For instance, my taxes would pay the salaries

of ten guys like you, McQuigg.

Uh, public servants.

McQuigg, the public servant.

You and I shouldve had a little talk

a long time ago, Nick.

Im all for it.

I never forget a pal.

Ive been intending to thank you for all youve done for me

like getting me buried in a no-action spot

after I knocked over those horse parlors of yours.

Why, Tommy? Me?

Then you and the boys decided

you wanted to make an action spot

out of a no-action spot, but there was McQuigg, eh?

I pinched one of your boys

for criminal assault and got a conviction.

Of course, he never did time.

There was an appeal, this and that, the old merry-go-round.

But it was inconvenient, wasnt it, Nick?

So I was transferred again.

I should be an inspector by now, Nick

if you hadnt known me in the old tenth ward days

and been my pal.

You flatter me.

Lets quit kidding, Nick.

Stay out of my district.

Im tired of playing horse.

Im making this a personal thing.

Understand, Nick?

A personal thing.

Okay, Tom.

Personal.

But if I can get you transferred

I can get you promoted, right?

So?

Just a thought.

Lady, dont be difficult.

Get your big paws off me, you..

Who are you?

Im Irene Hayes. What about it?

Youre in the wrong apartment.

You maybe right, but I didnt find out

till just now.

Ive been teaching my fiance some manners.

Your what? Well, anyway, he was.

Im not so sure now.

What do you do for a living?

I sing at the Paradise Club. What do you do?

Thats an interesting question, Nick.

Joe, come here.

So, you got engaged, huh?

I love her, Nick. This cheap canary.

Speak up, junior.

Nothing personal, sister.

How about a deal?

Deal?

Let my brother off the hook.

You keep the rock, Ill keep him.

Are you going to take this, Joe?

Now, listen-- Shut up!

Irene!

Now, listen, Nick-- Now, listen, Nick.

You wanna marry her

throwing yourself away on that.

Give me your money.

And your car keys.

I sold my car.

You sold my birthday present to buy that rock?

Yes, I did.

And Im going to marry her, too.

Now, listen, Joe.

Now, listen, Joe.

Listen to yourself.

Youll never know what Ive done for that crazy kid.

Give him everything. Money, clothes, cars.

Made a gentleman out of him.

Sent him to four colleges.

Four!

The last one I had to buy a chair.

No, not like that.

Endowment, they call it.

Professors graft, and stiff, too!

I had to endow a chair in Civics to get him his, uh..

What do you call it, uh.. Diploma.

Diploma. I got it, okay.

And I kept him out of the racket.

Why, he could marry anybody in town

society people maybe, even.

Funny, eh?

Personal you wanna make it, right?

I said my piece on that.

Well, listen.

Somebody better wise you up, McQuigg.

Youre two administrations behind.

That district of yours, its hot now!

The boys need it with the election coming up.

What are you trying to do, stand in the way of progress?

I tried to be nice about it and give you a good steer.

You better get smart, Tom, or start to duck.

Just stay out.

Youre not going back to the station tonight?

Yeah.

I look for shenanigans. What kind?

Who knows?

The elections close.

Every two years an election.

Never seems to make much difference.

Now dont you be worrying, Mary. Its just politics.

Alright.

But you will be careful, Tom?

Careful?

Let the hoodlums be careful.

Are you alright, Mary?

Was that just politics? Who knows?

Are you sure youre alright? Positive.

Ill take you to your sisters.

You will not.

But, Mary..

Nobodys gonna drive me out of my own home in your district.

Youre right, Mary.

Erm..

Get on with your cleaning and Ill get on with mine.

Well, boys?

Car 127 is following the car that didnt look kosher.

Car came out of an alley back of your house

right after the explosion.

Drive me down to the station. Right.

Mosley, car 133. Okay, go ahead.

Okay.

They chased the car into a dead end.

The car hit a curb and broke a wheel.

The boys didnt make any mistakes, captain.

The guys in the car are hoods. Theres been some shooting.

Go there. Carlin Street, off 32nd.

Wheres your partner?

Hes inside, captain.

I got a half-look at one of those men. I think I know him.

Hes one of the Scanlon hoods.

Keep these people back.

Alright, come on. Back. Everybody, come on.

All the way. Back. Way back.

Come on, back.

What happened? One of them got away.

The other one went up the stairs, I think.

Get him out of here.

Get back, folks.

Alright, move on back. Alright, move back. Move out.

I called the coroner, captain.

Yeah, one got away, one got killed.

Still not the one I want.

Wheres Nick?

Mr. Scanlon is not at home, sir.

I said, where is he? I am not empowered to say.

Does this empower you?

I dont know, sir.

Honestly, sir.

He had me pack an overnight bag for him

and left an hour ago.

Well, you pack another one

and send it down to the seventh District jail.

What, is he there, sir?

He will be.

Tch, tch, tch, tch. Tch, tch, tch, tch.

Was it bad, Mac? Much damage? Oh, how about a picture?

A fizzer. Boom. Hows the wife, Mac, okay?

Takes more than that to scare her.

Go away, boys. Read about it in the papers tomorrow.

Oh, Mac, not even a statement?

A guy who plays around with dynamite.. You finish it.

District Attorney Welsh is waiting for you, captain.

Thanks.

Its outrageous, Mac. Outrageous!

You can count on my office. Wheres Nick?

Nick?

You got evidence against Nick?

Theres never any evidence against Nick.

The evidence always gets lost.

Witnesses disappear, the record room has a fire.

We havent even got a picture of him in our files.

Kids like Johnson dont even know his face.

No wonder the governor appointed a special crime commission.

Well, none of this is evidence.

Well, a confession will be.

Suppose you did pick him up

hed have a writ here in ten minutes.

Id like to spend ten minutes alone with Nick.

You say yourself hes hiding.

Not from the old man, he isnt.

You could find him. Oh.

Ive never seen any connection between them.

Oh, Welsh, this is me, remember? McQuigg.

You can save that line for the voters.

Well, maybeafter the election.

Therell be one less honest judge.

Oh, now look here, Mac. Thats pretty strong.

Welsh, theres decency in you. Why dont you give it a chance?

The old mans making me a judge.

Convicting Nick Scanlon could make you our next governor.

Oh. No, Mac, you-you dont understand politics.

Alright, forget that.

Just between ourselves, tip me off.

It wont go any further. Where is he?

Mac, I dont know where he is.

Now, dont do anything reckless, Mac.

Im conservative. Youre the reckless one.

Youre playing with fire.

See if Johnsons still here, will you?

Yes, sir.

Hell never help you.

He could be honest.

Too much pressure from above.

Well, I can add a little from below.

The old mans behind him, captain.

Yes, sir.

Hell probably be at the Paradise Club

watching Irene Hayes.

Yes, sir. Pick him up. Quietly.

Whats the charge, sir?

Oh, vagrancy. Yes, sir.

If he resists, theres a city ordinance

against expectorating on the public pavement.

That includes expectorating broken teeth, sir?

Oh, yes, thats very unsanitary.

Where did she telephone from?

All I heard was the club, sir.

Then Mr. Joseph went out at once.

And then this perfectly ferocious man

came and roughed me up.

What did he say? I hardly know, sir.

Then he..

He what? Nothing, sir.

I tried to dissuade him, sir

but he was an extremely determined person.

And I, Mr. Scanlon, wish to give notice.

You what?

I hardly know, sir.

Im very bewildered.

♪ This is a lovely way ♪

♪ To spend an evening ♪

♪ Cant think of anything ♪

♪ Id rather do ♪

♪ This is a lovely way ♪

♪ To spend an evening ♪

♪ Cant think of anyone ♪

♪ As lovely as you ♪

That? To meet Irene Hayes?

Just an introduction.

You want a receipt or a mortgage?

What-whats wrong with a tip?

Its so lonely.

Where have you been since Okinawa?

Bob! Dave, how are you, kid?

Glad to see you.

Gosh its good to see you too. How you been?

Ive been taking very good care of him, officer!

Yeah, so I see.

Hey, wait a minute. Did he call you officer?

Since when? Im a police officer.

How about you? You keeping up with your writing?

Well, in a way. City Press. Im a reporter now. Cub.

Atta boy! You stick to it.

♪ An evening ♪

♪ I want to savor my night ♪♪

And leave Irene Hayes for the wolves.

Well, why the face? You havent even met her yet, have you?

Have you?

I dont need to. Four dry martinis.

Wheres the boyfriend?

Oh, now, wait a minute. Come on, come on.

Well, hes, hes in her dressing room

but, please, dont make any trouble.

This is a respectable place.

Oh, sure, sure.

You know, thats real funny.

Yeah. What?

Oh, no.

Oh, Joe, act your age.

I dont believe it. Its true.

Is this your car?

Yeah, what about it, flatfoot?

Its stolen.

Get out slow.

You said Nick gave you this car to make up.

He will. Be quiet.

Do you know who I am?

Do you know who I am?

Yeah, youre an auto thief carrying concealed weapons.

Ill have you busted for this.

You cant ride with the prisoner

but the seventh district jail is only a short walk.

Yeah, come around.

Nickll have me out in ten minutes.

Can I help you, Miss Hayes?

I doubt it. Who are you?

Dave Ames, City Press.

Thanks, I already subscribe.

Well, you dont understand. I, Im a reporter.

How would that help me?

Well, look, I, I mean, I-I can protect you, sort of.

Its a rough neighborhood. How would you know?

Well, Ive been around here lots of times.

I drop in to catch your act practically every night.

Alright.

Lets protect each other.

Want us inside, Nick? No.

I dont like the looks of this one.

Wheres Joe?

Honest, Mr. Scanlon I told him just like you said.

Where is he? Where did he go?

I hate to tell you this, Mr. Scanlon. Well..

Stop stalling. Lets have it. Well, uh..

That things getting close. So?

This is McQuiggs district, you meathead.

Its gone right on past. Next street.

I was gonna fire her just like you told me, Mr. Scanlon.

Whered they take Joe? Seventh precinct.

How about the tommy?

Shes on her way there now.

Walking, I think.

Cops got Joe, picked him up.

Now, were gonna pick up that tommy.

Shes walking to the station, probably took the shortest way.

You see, he was my sergeant. He really looked after us.

Kind of like an older brother.

Sounds like a scoutmaster.

Sure you were in the Marines?

Ive got an honorable discharge that says so.

Good. I hope your cop friends got one.

Maybe theyll take him back.

Oh, no, no, no. Hes married now and..

You mean that guy could get him fired?

Why dont we talk about you?

Why me? Why not you?

So you used to catch my act every night?

Mm-hmm.

All I can say is youve got no ear for music.

Oh, it wasnt your singing.

Well, at least the boys frank.

Oh, no, no. I dont mean that. I mean--

Stick to the newspaper business. Stay out of nightclubs.

You might get your feelings hurt.

Whats your first name?

Dave.

You like the newspaper business, Dave?

You like night clubs?

No, I dont.

But I like to eat three times a day.

There she is.

Slow her down a little.

Theres a guy with her.

So theres a guy with her.

Nick, listen. This is McQuiggs district.

I know that.

This is not smart. This is Hoosier stuff, Nick.

Im telling you. Youre telling me. Shut up!

Nick, well go up for this. The old man..

When I say do something, I want it done.

When are you guys gonna learn?

After this, dont argue.

Throw him in the back.

Okay, lets get out of here.

Look, were done for the evening.

This is where I leave you. Thanks.

Oh, Im going in, too. You forget, Im a reporter.

The only thing is. Why, why are you going in?

We brushed that off a while back.

Dont play Romeo.

Its just a waste of time, believe me.

Receipt for your toys, sonny.

My granddaughter could use that for a paperweight

in her kindergarten.

Grand larceny and concealed weapons.

Thats a good pinch, Johnson.

I dont admit stealing that car.

No, we just stole one of the three Rolls-Royces

in the city and planted it on you.

Maybe a jury will give you damages.

Youll see who gets damaged.

Now sonny, you mustnt terrorize the police.

Come see the birdie, pretty-boy.

Face to the front. Thats it.

Whats the trouble, captain?

It doesnt involve you, I hope.

Glad to hear it. Except as a witness.

Irene, dont talk.

Nick will have us out in an hour.

Quiet! Talking spoils my focus.

Me witness against the Scanlons?

You will, under oath.

I have memory lapses.

Ms. Hayes, what have the Scanlons ever done for you?

Nothing.

But they will now.

Nick Scanlon never did anything for anyone

in his life except himself.

Or his brother.

You mean you want that punk?

You dont necessarily get what you want in life.

I always say.

Irene that depends on what you want.

Who are you? Howd you get in this?

Ames, City Press, sir.

Hes a friend of mine, sir

and another witness.

Its your duty as an honest citizen to try to be--

Who said I was an honest citizen?

And what would it get me if I was?

Well, it might keep you out of jail for perjury.

Oh, this is great.

I walk in here of my own accord and--

Im only trying to help you. Well, dont be so helpful.

Ive been looking after Irene, thats me

for a long time.

Lock her up. For what?

Material witness.

I got a right to one phone call.

Captain, is our phone working?

For one call after theyre mugged, yeah.

Now, this is terrible, captain.

Mr. Ames, Im gonna have to straighten you out.

All Im after is Nick Scanlon.

Are you gonna keep Ms. Hayes in jail?

I wish I could but Nickll have em both out

on a writ by midnight.

He was too smart to call Nick.

Who did he call? Davis Bail Bonding Company.

See?

And, captain, Davis stalled him.

Said he had no instructions on Joseph Scanlon.

Wheres Welsh?

I hope hes still out chasing votes.

Arent they going to get Ms. Hayes out?

Its an old trick, son. A writs too public.

Welsh is working on the inside.

Just so somebody gets her out.

Im holding Ms. Hayes as a witness against Scanlon.

Is she in danger?

Not while Im holding her, shes not.

Hes right, Dave.

Whens your next edition?

About five hours.

Have Mike bring my car around, will you?

Im gonna see Judge Sherman.

Shoot the whole story, son.

Captain, can I leave her name out of it?

Sure.

Just be certain my name is very prominent.

Understand?

I understand.

Hey, Tom? Take it easy, will you? They can bust you for this.

Let them bust, as long as I get Scanlon.

Who is he to talk about Nick Scanlon?

Does he care about anybody but himself?

Hes an honest man, Dave. Oh, hes a publicity hound.

Youre the one who arrested Joe.

You wanna do me a favor?

Sure.

Print my name and address, too, as arresting officer.

Would it help you? It might. Might help a lot.

Listen, maybe Id better tell you the facts of life.

The captains setting himself up as a decoy, you understand?

But, Bob..

McQuigg plays rough. I like it.

As soon as that edition hits the street, Im expecting callers.

But look, Bob-- Dont argue!

Grab the phone!

Paper? Got your picture in it, captain.

Thank you.

Hm?

You should have been off hours ago.

How about yourself?

I got Judge Sherman. Theyll never fix him.

The hearings on Wednesday. Mac.

How could you do this to me?

Convicting Joe Scanlon is gonna be

great publicity for you, Mr. Prosecutor.

Joe Scanlon is a boy, an impetuous youngster.

Expressing his budding personality by grand larceny?

Juvenile peccadillo.

The owner of that car will not file a complaint.

Is the old man making him a judge, too?

Hes-hes a big contractor. He built city hall.

Yeah, I suppose hes the one that gave Joe that pistol?

Special permits can be issued.

Dated last Christmas? Look..

The old man wants this settled.

Now, thats funny, I heard there was no connection

between him and the Scanlons.

Macthis could cost me my job.

Hi, Mac. Mr. Welsh, Mr. Connolly wants you.

Is he here?

No. In his office. Waiting.

Well, did they make you city editor or give you some stock?

They threatened to fire me.

Oh? So what?

Im worried about that girl.

Ames, how old are you?

Twenty three. Thats very proper.

Thats the right age to worry about girls.

The paper wants her name.

Fine publicity for her.

If you stigmatize a girls good name--

People just dont change good names to Scanlon.

Shes just young and mixed up.

Captain, can I see her?

Send Ms. Hayes up here, please.

And while were trying to find you, McQuigg sets the hearing

with Judge Sherman.

I was working for the election.

You may not be in the election.

I insist on seeing the old man!

Hes not in.

But, the Scanlon boy is guilty.

I cant help that.

Connolly..

do we need Nick Scanlon now?

Yeah.

Nick, I, I was just joking.

Oh?

I can get Joe out on a writ.

Any fool can do that.

But unfortunately, he is guilty.

Why does the old man wanna make this dummy a judge?

Lets stick to business, Nick.

My brother is my business.

Listen, judge.

According to your law books, no man is guilty

until convicted in a fair trial, right?

My brother will never come to trial.

Nick, that cop caught him with a gun.

Whats the cops name? Johnson.

Its in all the papers.

Johnson will not appear.

The old man wont like that, Nick.

And theres this girl.

Girl? Yeah.

She stole that car to frame my brother.

And you, Mr. Prosecutor, youll send her

where she cant get him in any more trouble.

Oh, wait, Nick, Connolly--

You wanna be judge or an ex-prosecutor?

Well, if its for the good of the party.

You get your case. Get it ready against that dame.

Let me know how many witnesses youll need.

Davis? The old man must like em weak.

The old man likes them pliable, Nick.

He likes men who do as he says.

The other kind dont last long.

Davis Bail Bonding Company, a Delaware corporation.

What took you so long?

Theres only one judge who will touch this.

Did you get the writ?

Yeah, signed by Judge Wicks.

All we do is fill in the date.

Bring it here.

Give me your pen.

But I promised to get her out.

But Nick didnt. He means it, Joe.

Now, wait a minute, Davis.

Okay, good luck at the trial.

Davis!

Okay, get me out. You got the story straight?

Sure. Serves her right.

Dont put that in your pocket.

Why not?

Itll stink up your clothes for a week.

Nick will have us out in an hour.

What do you want, my phone number?

Youre staying here. Didnt he just bail us out?

Not you. When do I get out?

What is auto theft now, lieutenant? Five years?

Drop me a line from the pen.

You wait!

Ill tell them the truth, the whole business.

Ill give them the works!

Everything, even about Higgins!

Youll be sorry for this. Ill bust the thing wide open.

Do you hear me? Wide open!

Shes just young and mixed up.

So you lost your playmate, huh?

Yeah, I picked up his jacks.

What happens now? That depends on you.

Can they really frame me?

If you play their game, they can.

What game are you playing?

Just one. I want Nick Scanlon.

What can I do?

Tell me about Higgins. For what?

You wanna spend the rest of your life here?

Last night when he was sore..

Joe was bragging that Nick got Higgins.

How? Who was it that shot Higgins?

Thats all he said. Come on, sister.

Thats all he said, honest. He knows all about it.

Either Nick told him or he overheard what was going on.

Well, its a little thin but pick Joe up again.

Well, Ill-Ill be getting along.

To a slab in the morgue?

They wont bother me, will they?

Not in here they wont.

Feed her and make her comfortable

but dont let her out of your sight.

Irene, Im sorry.

Get out before you get me hung with your honesty.

You seem awfully anxious to get rid of me.

Im anxious for the news.

Bob, are you really glad?

Darling, I hope its twins.

Well, you know, Dr. Carter isnt sure yet.

You tell Dr. Carter I already bought the cigars.

What will you do while Im gone?

What does any father do?

Will you be at the station later?

Yeah, in an hour, biting my nails.

Ill come straight there. Good.

Come in.

Bob, why wont McQuigg release Irene Hayes?

Dave, youve got to grow up. Youre living in a dream world.

Well, whats wrong with trying to help a girl that needs help?

McQuigg is helping her to break with the Scanlons.

Hes using her to catch Nick.

Well, she wont be safe until he does.

Oh, come on, Bob. Youre exaggerating.

Well, there were three policemen killed in this town last year

by the kind of people that play around with the Scanlons.

Look, you know as well as I do that she..

Well, she just got mixed up in this by accident.

Shes not really the kind who

plays around with people like Nick.

Is, uh..

Officer Johnson in?

We just came about his insurance.

Yeah. Come in.

Hes, uhhes changing his clothes. Ill, Ill call him.

Bob?

Reach! High!

Bob?

You alright?

A confession would have been better.

I insist on seeing the old man.

Alright, alright.

What does she say she knows about Higgins?

Is she with McQuigg now?

Alright, get McQuigg out of there.

I said get him out of there.

For half an hour.

That canary, we gotta shut her up.

Money?

I can try that first.

Nick, Id suggest you let us handle this.

If I want any help from you, Ill ask for it.

Only a suggestion

but Id steer clear of it myself if I were you.

Send somebody else.

All I got working for me are a lot of dumb-heads.

They got a tough time figuring it out

how to get across the street.

Well, at least sit down and talk it over with yourself.

Right now, youre in the wrong frame of mind.

You know what the old man says

Never do anything in anger. Its inefficient.

A thing of the past.

And dont you guys try to double-cross me.

Could I afford to?

Better have Davis get a writ, just in case.

Is that all?

Yeah, have Ms. Hayes sign that, will you, please?

Busy, Mac?

You may say that as long as

I am privileged to serve the people.

Oh. How about a cup of coffee?

What are you after now, the restaurant vote?

Uh, I got problems, Mac, problems.

Wheres the captain? Out getting some coffee.

You got a duty report? Yeah, sure.

Say, Bob, you gonna be around?

Yeah, till the captain gets back.

Watch the desk, will you? Sure.

Well, thanks, Judge. Ill be getting back to the station.

Mac, can you send Johnson on immediate vacation?

So he cant testify against Joe?

He could leave a deposition.

For you to lose, Mr. Prosecutor? No thanks.

Maybe you think you can fix Johnson.

Forget it. Hes my kind of policeman.

Then send him away.

How did you know about Johnson made the arrest?

Dont you read your own press?

No, that was for Nick Scanlon to read.

How do you like that kid stealing my tricks?

Hello?

McQuigg.

Is Johnson there yet?

Fine. Keep him there.

Thanks, Welsh. Hes safe at the station.

Keep it running.

Is Captain McQuigg in?

Hell be back soon. Sit down.

I cant wait.

I want to see Ms. Irene Hayes.

What about?

Its a personal matter.

Oh.

Personal, eh? You a lawyer?

No. A friend.

A friend of Ms. Irene Hayes?

Thats the general idea.

Or maybe a friend of Nick Scanlon.

Is that some of your business?

He must hire you cheap hoods by the dozen.

Well, sit down and wait.

The captain will be back in a minute.

You in charge here? Yeah, till relieved.

Whats your name?

Johnson. Whats yours?

So youre Johnson, huh?

The big brave cop.

Thats me.

And I got kind of a suspicion who you might be, too.

Whats the matter, Scanlon?

You run out of hoodlums?

Fresh cop, huh?

Understudying McQuigg?

No. Im not that good. Youre that dumb, alright.

Wheres this girls cell, flatfoot?

You heard what I told you. Sit down and wait.

The captain will take care of you when he gets back here,

you cheap mug.

Bob!

Better get the doctor, Jim.

McQuigg. Redline flash.

Thirteen. One-three. Acknowledge your call, 1-3.

Redline for all units.

Redline for all units.

Large black sedan.

License X-Y-2-4-9-8.

Going north on Constitution Avenue.

Occupants armed and dangerous.

There it is.

Car 43, 4-3

in pursuit of black sedan going north on Constitution

from Green Street.

They made us. Hit it.

What happened in there, Nick? Shut up and drive.

Voters, Prosecutor Welsh

has issued a challenging statement

to the people of this city.

You will now hear Mr. Welshs own voice.

You may say that as long as I am..

Politics. Go on through.

Forty-three blocked at Washington.

Black sedan turned west on central.

Well?

Captain..

Itit was..

It..

Oh..

Best young cop on the force.

Honest, decent, plenty of guts.

Seems like theyre the first ones it happens to.

Youll make the arrangements, wont you, doc?

Yeah, Mac.

Go get Mary, Jim.

What about him?

A little groggy yet, but hell be alright.

Did he see the shooting? He must have.

Probably tried to stop it.

Hello.

McQuigg.

Anything on that redline yet?

Tell the boys they killed a cop.

Hello, Lucy.

I, uh..

Weve had a little trouble here.

Will youcome on in?

Hit it, I told you. Hit it. Its on the floor.

Black sedan, occupants killed a policeman.

So you bumped a cop personally.

And Im sitting minding my own business.

Shut up!

Weve been trying to tell you and trying

to tell you. Now this is it.

Just drive.

Can you beat that train?

I can try.

What do you think? They killed a policeman.

Davis will be here with a writ of habeas corpus.

You will have Nick released immediately.

He mustve been crazy. Perhaps.

If so, he may be inclined to talk.

They may not catch him alive.

We dont count on things like that.

Were there any witnesses?

I dont know. Find out.

And remember whatever happens

Nick must not be allowed to talk.

Chief, may I see you?

Anything on that redline? No, sir.

Ill take her home.

Thanks, Mary. Ive got lots of work to do.

Do it well, Tom.

Can you talk yet? Sure.

Did you see who did the shooting?

He couldnt. He was downstairs with me.

So you kicked his face in, huh?

Youll get him killed.

You cant even protect your own cops.

And whos trying to protect cops? Look at them.

Three of the finest that ever walked a beat.

Killed on duty trying to protect the people of this city.

Just as Johnson himself was killed here tonight

probably trying to protect you.

How can any cop protect anybody without honest witnesses?

So the buzzards are gathering, huh?

Dave.

Do you hate me?

No.

McQuiggs right.

I was all for myself.

I never had anyone to be for.

Youll be alright.

Dave..

if you talk, theyll kill you.

If you wouldve told me where Nick was last night

Well, we dont know Nick did this.

So thats the party line, huh?

Who else would Kill a policeman in the station?

No proof, have you, Mac? A confession will be proof.

No, Nick will never confess.

He will to me, before you

take him out of here.

Mac, were, were here to help.

Well help each other.

Ill give you the pleasure

of hanging him, Mr. Prosecutor.

Well stick around, Mac.

He wont stop at anything now.

Do you think I will?

Here he is, captain.

He threw his gun away. Theyre looking for it.

The other man got away, sir.

This is the one I want.

Did that chump driver of mine pull something in here?

Born with an alibi in your mouth, huh?

Alibi?

What is all this, Tom, a routine roust?

You dont remember, huh? Maybe I can refresh your memory.

I dont talk without my lawyers.

Your lawyers are probably busy trying to frame your driver.

Who was he, Nick?

Breeze Enright.

Breeze Enright.

I sent him up last winter for ten years.

He mustve got parole. You know how those things are.

What did it cost you, Nick?

Paroles come kind of high in election years, they tell me.

Itll be worth it if they hang this rap on him.

Maybe.

If I knew what the rap was.

The sooner you know, the sooner they can put the fix in, huh?

Where you been?

This may be too smart, Nick.

I got a writ here.

What are you today, Davis?

Just a bondsman, captain

and this, a habeas corpus.

Issued before he did it.

Its all legal, captain.

Habeas corpus, its the law.

Youll get contempt of court for this. Get Welsh.

What do you mean, coming in here drunk?

And disorderly in a police station.

And resisting arrest. Yeah.

Lock him up till hes sober.

And book him for murder.

Tearing up writs.

Framing guys.

Booking me for murder!

Why, you dumb cop!

Big brave copper.

Someday, maybe Ill get you on my home grounds.

Any time.

Any place.

And no squawks now about police brutality.

I was just protecting myself.

Book him.

Have you gone crazy?

Send Nick up here right away, will you?

You cant tear up a writ of habeas corpus.

I did it.

The judge will will have you suspended.

Hell bless me for saving his neck.

But this is a court order! For a murderer.

How would that look in print just before an election?

Hes got a point, Mr. Welsh.

You havent proved murder.

You just make yourself comfortable, Mr. Prosecutor.

Ill be right back.

Well, Ames?

Mac, you cant make him identify Nick Scanlon.

I dont have to make him, hes honest.

Dave, you cant. Ive got to, Irene.

Well..

if honestys the style around here, can I play?

Good girl. Now, listen..

Let Enright take the rap.

He can plead self-defense, you get him a second degree sentence

and Ill buy him out later when things quiet down.

It isnt that simple, Nick.

Youre paid to make things simple, judge.

Ready, Mr. Prosecutor?

Cut the comedy and get me out here.

Right in here, please.

You know this man?

Not his name, but I saw him kill Johnson.

Now, listen, sonny

take a good look at me.

Maybe youll change your mind.

Im not afraid of you.

Wait till my boys get through with you.

Your boys.

Theyll take care of you, too.

Your boys would take care of everything for you

dont they, Nick?

I thought you were so tough.

Whats this tommy doing in here?

Fighting with kids. Is that the way you got your reputation?

Joe didnt think much of you

but at least he always bragged about how tough you were.

That was one thing he never apologized for.

What are you talking about, dime-a-dozen?

Im talking about your brother, Joe always apologizing for you.

Joe never apologized for me in his life.

All the time.

And now it begins to look like youre not even tough.

Why, you cheap, little, clip joint canary.

You big brute. You kicking that kid in the face.

He got in my way.

Theres your confession, Mac.

You, you didnt tell me you had a witness.

You didnt tell me you had a phony writ.

Dont ditch me, Welsh.

Well, one witness isnt conclusive.

They found his gun, captain.

Has it been dusted?

Yes, sir.

Its lousy with fingerprints.

Exhibit A, Mr. Prosecutor.

Listen, judge. Better get me out of here.

Phone Connolly.

Captain, I, Id like to interview the prisoner alone.

Im gonna do the same thing.

However, you may have him first.

You two, come with me.

Get the old man himself. Yes, were trying..

Phone for you, Mr. Welsh.

Going somewhere?

Now, listen, Connolly. I--

Oh.

Ohe-excuse me, Sir.

I, I thought it was Connolly. I..

Oh, yes, sir.

Oh, yes, sir.

Uh, oh, y-yes, yes, sir. Of course, sir.

Hes right here, sir.

Yes, sir. Yes, sir.

Yes, sir.

Ye..

Just..

Just as you say, sir.

Its the old man.

He wants to talk to you.

Yeah, chief.

Yes, sir.

You get the old man?

Yes. Yes, I got him.

Come on. Come on. What did he say?

Mac, I, Ive just got to have a few more minutes.

Make it short.

Nick..

the old man says you got to stand arrest.

What? Just till after the election.

Dont you guys know by now you cant play games with me?

You know the publicity youll get.

Listen, you-- We cant carry you

and the election too.

You better go back to the old man again

and tell him something for me.

Im not holding still for any arrest

especially in the seventh district.

McQuigg, that guyd frame me if he couldnt do it no other way.

Its no use, Nick. I tried.

You tried.

You better try harder, judge, or youll all swing.

You understand what I mean?

Who do you think youre dealing with?

A fall guy? A patsy?

What do you mean, Nick?

You know what I mean, you two-bit crook.

Who pays off who and why is what I mean.

Where the big bankroll and the big boys are.

New York even, shall we say?

Whod believe you? That crime commission.

I can give names, phone numbers, addresses.

You couldnt prove it. Ive got it all on paper.

Whats the matter with you? You think Im stupid or something?

I was running this town when you

cheap jerks were still eating at diners.

You wanna go back to diners or something worse?

You mean youd talk, Nick?

And how!

About the big graft.

About who the Acme Real Estate Company is and why.

The old man says I got to stand arrest.

How would the old man like to stand arrest maybe?

He may be right, Mr. Welsh.

Yeah. He, he may be.

We gotta help him.

Yeah.

We, we got to have an alibi.

Turk.

Thats an alley. Its dark now.

Tear the shade like you went out fast.

Give me your rod. Sorry, I might need it.

Hurry, Nick. Hurry.

Whats up, Welsh?

Tell him. Wait. Wait.

Not me.

Do you think Id let any lousy

politician tell me what to do?

Im through waiting.

Now you double-crossers can double-cross each other.

My boys will go to the polls next week

with orders to let the people vote honest.

Give me that gun.

In the belly if you move.

Turk!

It was the second one that got him.

Call the coroner, will you?

You know, you gave me a bad minute.

Didnt you have this figured?

Till he grabbed the gun.

I, I didnt know it wasnt loaded.

Oh, I did that, captain. Safer.

Well, you might have told me.

Hey, Sullivan.

Just as you thought, captain.

Well, I hope I havent made you our next governor.

You mean, you thought this all out?

Sometimes policemen can think.

They always go too far.

Irene.

Now what?

Dont you think we can even make a try at it?

I, I guess you cant blame anyone for trying..

can you?

Are Mr. Welsh and a Sergeant Turk here?

Well, theyre pretty busy right now.

Mr. Welsh will see me.

Oh? And who might you be?

Ive been hoping to meet you for a long time.

Mr. Welsh, you have callers.

Oh. Hello, Harry. I, Im sorry I cant help you boys just now.

Im very busy. Perhaps tomorrow.

One question, Mr. Welsh. Well?

When did you become a stockholder

in the Acme Real Estate Company?

Anything more, captain?

Yeah, a lot more for Welsh and Turk.

The machinery finally caught up with them.

Machinery?

Justice.

Its a kind of machine.

A slow machine.

People like Turk and Welsh

arealways throwing sand in it.

Getting it out of gear.

Why do we let them, Delaney?

You, me, the public.

I get mighty sick and tired of it.

Constant fight, constant struggle.

Better get some rest, Tom.

Rest? Yeah.

Yeah, but tomorrow it starts all over again.

Goodnight, Jim. Goodnight.