The Suicide; Or Nick Carter and the Lost Head, Pt. 1

In this episode of "Forward Into The Past," host JC Rede introduces the iconic detective Nick Carter and his enduring legacy in American literature and culture. The episode then delves into the beginning of a new Nick Carter story, "The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head." Mrs. Darling seeks Nick's help after her husband's apparent suicide, but as Nick investigates, he uncovers suspicions of foul play and two mysterious men connected to the case. With the assistance of Nancy Nordeck, a reformed criminal, Nick begins to unravel the truth. Join the thrilling investigation in this captivating episode.

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Transcript

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Hi again, friends and welcome to another episode of Forward Into The Past. I'm JC Rede, your host and narrator. And today we're beginning a brand new story in the long and enduring case files of Nick Carter. This one entitled The Suicide or Nick Carter and the Lost Head. Sounds interesting. So let's get started. Long before Batman and Sherlock Holmes captured imaginations, a fictional detective named Nick Carter ruled the early 20th century, American literary and cultural landscape. Born in 1886 within the pages of dime novels, Carter's adventures quickly transcended the format, evolving into a publishing phenomenon that cemented his place as a cultural icon. Nick Carter's initial success, lay in his characterization. Unlike the brooding cerebral detectives that would later become the norm, Carter was a charismatic action oriented figure. He was a master of disguise, a skilled hand-to-hand combatant, and a relentless pursuer of justice. His adventures serialized in publications like The Nick Carter Weekly were filled with thrilling chases, daring rescues, and exotic locations offering readers an escape from their daily lives. The character's immense popularity led to an explosion of Nick Carter merchandise. Novels featuring his exploits became bestsellers, with publishers turning out hundreds of stories over several decades. Stage plays, films primarily in Europe, and comic books, further extended Carter's reach, solidifying his presence across various media formats. This transmedia approach, cemented Carter's image in the public consciousness, making him a household name. However, the early 20th century saw a decline in Carter's popularity. By the 1910s reader's tastes began to shift, favoring more complex narratives and nuanced characters. The simplistic formulaic nature of the earlier Nick Carter stories no longer held the same appeal. Additionally, the rise of new pulp heroes, like The Shadow and Doc Savage who offered more depth and intrigue, further overshadowed the once dominant detective. Even though it was Nick Carter who influenced both The Shadow and Doc Savage characters. Well, despite the decline, Nick Carter never truly faded away. In the 1930s, he was reinvented to cater to the changing preferences of the time he was reintroduced as a hard-boiled detective mirroring the popular style of the era. This revival while not as commercially successful as the earlier iteration, showcased the character's adaptability and enduring appeal. Nick Carter's legacy transcends his initial popularity. He stands as a Testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of fictional characters to capture the imagination of a generation. His impact on the detective genre and the broader world of popular culture is undeniable, paving the way for countless heroes who would follow in his footsteps. Today he remains a fascinating figure, a reminder of the ever evolving landscape of literary and cultural trends. And now let's pay a visit to this popular figure as we bring you Nick Carter and the last head or the suicide. Chapter one. How the end came. Slow down Danny, and look out for that wire said Nick Carter to his chauffeur. It may be a live one. I'm on to it, chief. On to it, eh? Don't you run onto it while I'm in the car. Not if it's a live one. You may fancy absorbing the output of an electric lighting plant. But not for mine, Danny, not for mine. I know what it would do to me. I've seen men electrocuted. Danny Maloney laughed, for it was obvious that the famous detective was jesting. On to it with my lamps, chief is what I meant. He replied. Say what do you mean then said Nick, with a smile. Precision is one of the valuable assets of a detective. Luckily, however, you are addressing one who can read between the lines barring those of the ambiguous letter that brought us out here. Can't you fathom it? It must be mighty blind chief, if it fools you. On the contrary, Danny, it is perfectly plain. What there is of it, said Nick, dryly. A woman, one Mrs. Myra Darling states that she is in great trouble. That a very devoted friend of mine has advised her to appeal to me. And will I favor her with a call at my earliest convenience? Is that all questioned Danny tersely. The whole business said Nick. Of course, the appeal coming from a woman, I cannot turn it down. Noblesse oblige. You don't know her. Not from a side of leather. I am acquainted with no Darling woman. Ah, suppress that smile, Danny. I know what you're thinking. But all women are not darlings far from it. This one might be! Said Danny, his smile spreading to a grin. That's neither here nor there said Nick with a laugh. Not being in the market, Danny, all the women look alike to me. Now the said, Mrs. Darling's trouble may be... ah, but we are near an answer to the momentous question. Yonder is the place, unless I am much mistaken. Stop at the driveway gate. I'll walk into the grounds. Keep your eye peeled by the way, while I'm engaged with her ladyship. The place referred to was out beyond Washington Heights and overlooking the Hudson. It was an attractive estate without being at all pretentious as were the others in the immediate locality. The grounds flanked a broad street in which electric lighting was being introduced. And from which the house stood back, some 30 yards with a well kept lawn and a few shade trees. In the rear were a stable and garage beyond which the land sloped down sharply toward the river. Nick did not wait for an answer from his chauffeur. He sprang from the car while speaking, then walked briskly up the driveway and approached the house, quite a large wooden dwelling of the colonial type. Nick mounted the broad front veranda and rang the bell. It was answered almost immediately by a tall, graceful woman clad in black and about 30 years of age. She was of medium complexion with brown hair and eyes and a finely poised head. Her features were regular, but her face was a strong one, rather than handsome. Evincing willpower. Intellectuality. And, a lofty character. She bowed and smiled a bit gravely saying immediately. You are Mr. Carter? I think. Yes, said Nick politely. I am Mrs. Darling. Walk in please and come into the library. I am very glad you could comply so soon with my request. It is very good of you. I happened to be at liberty this afternoon. Nick replied following her into the hall. I received your letter this morning. Mrs. Darling conducted him into a prettily furnished library and invited him to be seated. Taking an opposite chair, she then said gravely. I will take as little as possible of your valuable time. I will tell you with few and simple words, Mr. Carter, why I have sent for you. Cover all of the ground, Mrs. Darling, Nick suggested. My time just now is at your disposal. Thank you. She replied bowing. I will, in that case begin at the beginning. I was married eight years ago to Mr. Cyrus darling, a New York tobacco dealer. A man whom I have always supposed to had considerable means, though he has never informed me definitely. He owned this place, however, and we have always lived well and he has provided for me generously. Mr. Darling is not living? Uh, no, I will explain presently. Ah, continue then. I was nearly 20 years younger than he Mr. Carter, but our married life was a uniformly happy one. Though, not as gay and festive as he perhaps would have preferred. I am inclined to be domestic while he was of a volatile nature, having neither, a strong nor stable character. I frankly admit Mr. Carter, that he was subservient to my will and wishes. I understand you said Nick. I have no children. And I keep only two servants aside from a chauffeur whom I occasionally employ. Mrs. Darling continued. My husband's habits were good, as the world goes. And I noticed nothing unusual in his conduct. Until about three months ago. And then. Well, I then thought he appeared strangely reticent, at times very self-absorbed and less frank and affectionate than before. I asked him whether there was anything wrong, but he assured me to the contrary, though he seemed a bit irritated because I questioned him. Hmm. I follow you. Later Mr. Carter, he appeared quite despondent and I feared that his business troubled him. He said that my fears were groundless and that his business was never better. He went from bad to worse. He said very little at home, and remained in town evenings much more frequently than in years past, which I attributed to his seeming depression and his desire to find relief in the excitement and diversions of the city. Did you occasionally accompany him? Nick inquired. No very seldom. He did not seem inclined to have me do so. Hm. Was he addicted to drink? Only moderately. I never saw him intoxicated nor anything like it. Hm. Proceed then. Well, about two weeks ago, Mr. Carter, he decided to sell his business saying that he was sick of it and would try something else. I remonstrated with him telling him that he was making a mistake and that it is not easy for a man over 50 to make such changes profitably. Yes, that is very true, Mrs. Darling. Well, it had no effect on him, however, and he let the business go. She replied, sadly, shaking her head. During the following week, he was at home part of each day, but he spent most of the afternoons and evenings in town. On Tuesday one week ago yesterday. He appeared unusually nervous and depressed. I missed him soon after lunch and supposed he had gone into town. I had an appointment with my dentist and was absent from two o'clock until nearly six. When I returned home. Well, Mr. Carter, the end had come. What do you mean? Question Nick gravely. My husband had committed suicide or was the victim of foul play. Oh, I see. Nick drew up in his chair. Were you in any uncertainty at that time, Mrs. Darling as to the cause of his death. No, not at that time, Mr. Carter, she quickly informed him. I know what you have in mind that I should have called in the police immediately. I did not then however, nor at any time until yesterday, have even a thought of anything but suicide. The circumstances suggested nothing else. And what were the circumstances Mrs. Darling? Nick inquired. State them briefly. Well, there is very little to tell she rejoined. My husband was last seen alive by one of my servants. She saw him going out of the back door of the house and around the stable. And she supposed, he was going down to our boat house, which was on the riverbank and out of view from here, owing to the sharp slope of the land. Oh, yes, I see. said Nick glancing from the window. Soon after Mr. Carter, the boathouse was seen to be on fire. It contained a motorboat and considerable gasoline, which caused it to burn very rapidly. It was completely destroyed. In the ruins were found the remains of my husband, little more than a charred skeleton from which the flesh was almost entirely burned. Mrs. Darling paused to dry her eyes, maintaining with an effort, her outward composure. Appreciating her feelings, Nick waited a few moments and then inquired. Are you sure Mrs. Darling, that his death was not due to an accident? Oh positively. She replied. To begin with Mr. Carter, he left this letter on the chiffonier in my bedroom. You may read it. She took it from the library table while speaking and tendered it to the detective. Nick read it, the following few lines written with pen and ink. My dear Myra. Forgive me for the step I'm going to take. I am driven to it by feelings I cannot describe. I am sick and tired of the whole business of life itself. I am going to end it. Forgive and forget me. Cyrus. Hmm. Nick replaced the letter on the table saying considerately. There seems indeed to be no reasonable doubt of Mr. Darling's intentions. You recognize the writing? I infer. Oh, yes. Surely she replied. Furthermore, Mr. Carter, there were found in the ruins numerous articles that positively identify my husband's remains. They included the buttons on his garments, which were entirely consumed. Also his pocket knife, his false teeth. And a plain gold ring. His revolver was also found nearby and it is supposed that he shot himself after setting fire to the boat house, presumably to make sure that his terrible design could not miscarry. Who examined the articles and investigated the case? Asked Nick. Uh, Dr. Lyons, my physician, who is also the coroner. A capable man. Nick nodded. I am acquainted with him. And what is his opinion? He thinks it a case of suicide. He could find no evidence of anything else and is very positive in his opinion. Had your husband any money, jewelry or... No, he left those in the bedroom, his watch, diamonds, and pocketbook, also his ring of keys, Mrs. Darling interposed. Only one key was missing from the ring. Uh, which one was that? The key to the boat house. Nick did not reply for a few moments. He said, gazing thoughtfully at a figure in the heavy carpet. Superficially viewed, the circumstances stated seemed to admit of only one reasonable theory: that Mr. Cyrus Darling had indeed deliberately ended his own life. Uh, the funeral and burial were last Thursday, Mrs. Darling added during the brief silence on Nick's part. Dr. Lyons did not think the case called for any investigations beyond those he personally made, uh, nor did I at the time. He. One moment said, Nick, looking up. What have you since learned Mrs. Darling, that occasions your misgivings. Why do you now suspect foul play? That I think is the term you used. Well, I have two reasons for apprehending something of the kind she replied. One relates to my husband's estate. I have learned from his lawyer who has been assisting me, and in whom I have absolute confidence, that Mr. Darling left no will. That he has recently withdrawn considerable money from the bank and that his safety deposit drawer contains only a few securities worth less than$3,000! From dividends, which I know that he has been in the habit of receiving as well as from our living expenses for several years, I knew that he was worth at least a hundred thousand dollars. Is your lawyer investigating the matter? I have requested him to do so. And, uh, what is his name? Nick inquired, taking out his notebook. Henry Clayton. He has an office in town. Ah, I am acquainted with him also. said Nick, noting the name. You mentioned a second reason for your misgivings. What is that? One of my servants. What do you mean? I referred in my letter, Mr. Carter, to a very devoted friend of yours who advised me to appeal to you. Hmm. Yes. I remember said Nick wondering. A devoted friend of mine, one of your servants? I refer to my table girl, who also serves me as a maid. You have, I am very sure, no more grateful and devoted an admirer. I will call her. Nick bowed and waited, still more deeply puzzled as to the girl's identity. Mrs. Darling touched a bell on the library table. Nick glanced again from one of the windows and discovered another perplexing fact. His touring car was standing where he had left it. But his chauffeur was missing. Danny Maloney had disappeared. The quick light steps of the approaching maid sounded in the hall. Turning in that direction, just as she appeared at the open door, Nick beheld. Nancy Nordeck. Chapter two. The girl who was down. Suspicions were mingled with Nick Carter's surprise at seeing Nancy Nordeck. They were perfectly natural too under the circumstances and in view of the disclosures to which he had just listened. The presence of a girl with a criminal record in the home of a man whose death was shrouded in mystery, much more of a mystery than Mrs. Darling even imagined, though already keenly appreciated by the detective, might indeed be significant. Months had passed since Nick last saw Nancy Nordic. She had so improved in looks that he hardly recognized her. She bore little likeness to the frail girl with the pinched and haggard face who was so deeply affected by the violent death of her crook father, that she had resolved to reform, a moral awakening that Nick had by no means felt sure would be lasting. His first thought, therefore was that she might be up to her old tricks and in league with rascals to have killed Cyrus Darling to get possession of his fortune. It was not in Nick's nature to expose the girl, nevertheless, if her reformation was genuine. For he never put a block in the way of anyone who was down and striving to rise. He felt for a moment that his position might be a delicate one, but though no signs of them appeared in his face, his impressions evidently were suspected by the girl. For she approached him quickly saying respectfully yet with characteristic assurance. I know what you're thinking, Mr. Carter. And no one could blame you, but there's nothing in it, sir. I've been as straight as a string from the time you set me right. And shook hands with me, wishing me all kinds of good luck. And you couldn't think if you tried how much I now care for you and your good opinion. I have hid nothing here, sir. Mrs. Darling knows all about me and what I was, and she has been as good to me as you, sir. I'd bite a finger off before I'd go crooked again in any way. I think you can safely depend on that. Mr. Carter, said Mrs. Darling smiling, faintly. Nancy has confided her entire past to me. And in overlooking it and lending her a helping hand, I now know positively that I have made no mistake. She is a good girl and a capable one. There was a suspicious moisture in Nancy's brown eyes, then fixed upon the strong kindly face of her mistress. She colored deeply too when Nick extended his hand and said, heartily, come here, Nancy. Let's shake again. I am more than glad to hear this. And to know that you are on the right track. Stick to it, my girl, as I now feel sure you will. You may be sure that I will. Mr. Carter said Nancy eagerly shaking his hand. Now let's proceed with this matter. Nick said more seriously. Mrs. Darling tells me that you advised her to appeal to me. So I did Mr. Carter, Nancy replied. She will answer any questions you care to ask her. Mrs. Darling, put in. Fine fine. To begin with then. What do you know about the case? Said Nick. Was it you who last saw Mr. Darling alive? Yes, sir. I saw him leaving the house and going down back of the stable. Did you notice anything unusual? Did he appear excited or. No, sir, not in the least, put in Nancy. I didn't reckon anything was wrong coming off. I didn't get wise at all until the mistress told me that most of the master's money is missing. Wise to what Nancy? Uh, that he was killed and robbed maybe instead of putting out his own light. Why did you suspect that? Only because of two guys he has been friendly with lately. They've been here to see him. One of them, quite a number of times. Two men. Yes, sir. Do you know them? Nick inquired turning to Mrs. Darling. Hardly more than by name. She replied. My husband introduced me to one of them named Phillip Floyd. Who has called several times to see him. I have met the other only once. And what is his name? asked Nick. Proceeding to write them in his notebook. Ralph Sheldon. He called here a few days ago with Mr. Floyd who introduced me to him. My husband was absent at the time and they remained only a few minutes. That is the only time I ever saw Mr. Sheldon, though my husband had frequently mentioned him. Are they old friends of his? Quite the contrary. I never heard of them until about a month ago. Had they any business relations with your husband? I cannot say. Do you know anything about them? No more than I have told you. Said, Mrs. Darling. My husband referred to them only as friends. And he appeared to think well of them. Do you know where they live? Um, I do not. Both were here you say a few days before he died. The day before, Mr. Carter, and both attended his funeral. Did they say why they wanted to see him on the day preceding his death? They did not. I inferred from their remarks, however that it was only a friendly call. Are they men of his own age? I would say that Mr. Sheldon is nearly as old. He appears to be in the forties. Mr. Floyd, however is not over 30. Are they prepossessing men. Uh, yes in a way. Though I did not quite fancy them said Mrs. Darling. As for Nancy. Oh, well, she may speak for herself. It was partly her impression of them that led me to take her advice and appeal to you. On the dead, Mr. Carter, I would not trust either of them as far as I could throw a bull by the tail. Nancy bluntly declared in characteristic terms. You know me, sir, I am not easily fooled. I can read a man dead right nine times out of 10, Mr. Carter, the minute I set my eyes on'em. You did not fancy them then. Not so you'd notice it. said Nancy. I wouldn't say too much against the Sheldon man. Mr. Carter for I've seen him only twice. I saw him at the funeral and I let him in with Mr. Floyd a few days before. He's all right maybe though I'd hate to back much on it. And what about Mr. Floyd? Why do you distrust him so seriously? I have more than one reason for that hunch. Said Nancy inelegantly. For a starter, Mr. Carter. I've seen that guy before. Floyd? Yes, sir. When and where Nancy. Give it up on the dead, sir, I can't tell. But you feel sure of it. Surest thing you know, Said Nancy confidently. I'd stake my bundle on it, Mr. Carter, and you know what that means, knowing what I was. Any man I knew in the past was most likely a crook. Nick did not contradict her. Besides he knew me, sir, the first time. I let him in here. Nancy went on. I was wise to that all right. But it wasn't for me to meddle with the masters affairs. So I kept my trap closed. Why did you think Floyd recognized you. I saw his lamps light up the incident. They lit on me. Nancy explained it in characteristic terms. He looked at me like he saw a ghost. Did he say anything to you? No, not a word, Mr. Carter, but no man with eyes like his is on the level. I know what I'm saying. It's like breaking sticks for me to pick out a crook from a bunch of men. Floyd is one Mr. Carter, if ever there was one. And that's why I got the mistress to send for you. I don't forget what you did in that Maybrick case. And what you did for me sir never. I'm quite sure of it, Nancy. Nick replied. You can tell me no more about the two men I infer. No, sir. That is all, then. I will look deeper into this matter, Mrs. Darling, if you wish me to do so, under one condition. Oh, any conditions you see fit to impose Mr. Carter. She replied gratefully. You must leave the case entirely to me, aside from the instructions you already have given your lawyer and Dr. Lyons. I will see and inform both of them, of our arrangements. Very well. I leave it all to you. And say nothing about it to others. Nick added, there must be no publicity at present. I am more than anxious to avoid it. Mrs. Darling assured him. Nick arose and took his hat from the table. I'm going to have a look at the ruins of the boat house. He said, if you will show me the way. I will send Nancy with you. I prefer to go alone. Nick objected. I will return in a very few minutes. He left the house by the rear door, passing around the stable and down the riverbank. All that remained at the boat house and its contents was a heap of charred black ruins. The ground nearby was covered with footprints of many persons who had visited the tragic scene. But none of them were of material significance. Nick wanted only to view the surroundings, however, and he saw with a glance that the spot was so shut in by the hill in the rear and the trees on either side that knaves selecting it for the murder of Darling, if such was his fate, would have incurred only chance observation by persons on the river. Against which effective precautions could easily have been taken. Scarce 10 minutes had passed when Nick returned and rejoined Mrs. Darling in the library. He then obtained from her a description of Floyd and Sheldon, the only two persons then seeming to invite suspicion. And he also asked to see a photograph of her husband. I know of only one in existence. Mr. Carter, she replied. That was taken the year after our marriage. It is still a very good likeness of him. It is in our album. I will get it for you. She brought the volume and opened it on the library table. Only to search it vainly. The photograph of Mr. Cyrus Darling. Had disappeared. Well, that took an interesting turn. First off a massive thank you for joining me on this journey through time visiting New York city in the early 20th century. But the adventure doesn't have to stop here. To help spread the word about the show and keep it climbing the ranks of the podcasting world. Consider subscribing on your favorite platform and leaving a review. It's like giving the show a high five and trust me, it makes a huge difference. Feeling extra generous. Well, you can also become a monthly supporter for the price of well, less than your morning latte. Every contribution helps keep this story, train chugging along. Head over to forward into the past podcast.com to learn more and join the community. Not only can you get some detailed information about the episode you just heard? But there's lots of links to the merch store and, uh, wow. I've started rambling again. Okay, friends. Until next time. Thanks for listening. Keep sharing the stories and be a good human. Bye for now.