Million Dollar Murder Case

Originally Aired: March 15, 1949Philo Vance #36, "Million Dollar Murder Case,"The wealthy and paranoid Mr. Simmons has transformed his mansion into a fortress, complete with a ten-foot wall, an elaborate electric eye alarm system, and a cliff protecting the rear. As he proudly demonstrates his security measures to his new caretaker Harold, Simmons reveals the depth of his fear, believing that numerous enemies from his ruthless business dealings may seek revenge. He trusts no one completely, not even Harold, and keeps a gun on him at all times for protection from his own household. Despite his fortress and weapons, Simmons claims to finally feel safe and at ease, looking forward to spending his remaining years in this burglar-proof sanctuary.However, Simmons' confidence in his impenetrable defenses may be misplaced. He mentions his loyal secretary Betty Jannis, who stands to inherit a considerable fortune upon his death, and hints at suspicious connections involving a mysterious Mr. Clease. As the paranoid millionaire boasts that nobody can reach him in his secure estate, the stage is set for a classic locked-room mystery that will require Philo Vance's considerable deductive skills to unravel.