
THE ADVENTURES OF THE FALCON This hard boiled spy drama began as an RKO Radio Pictures theatrical serial in the 1940s, went on radio in 1943, and then came to TV around ten years later in a Syndicated series produced for distribution by NBC Films; the...
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Ed Hurley
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Ed Hurley
The Kraft Food Company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Demons.
Les Damon
Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Vivian, I'm glad you called. No, you'll have to count me out tonight, angel. I'm all jammed up. There's a boy around who thinks he can play with guns. And I gotta prove that when he tries murder, he's in for the shock of his life.
Ed Hurley
This is Ed Hurlige, friends, inviting you on behalf of the Craft Foods Company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. You met the Falcon first in his best selling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the sweet swindle. Before the falcon solves tonight's case, let's listen to this.
Irene Kent
Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing. Miracle Whip, only one of its kind. Miracle Whip best salad dressing you'll find.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip tastes really good, not too sharp, not too mild, but just exactly right. And Miracle Whip tastes different, too different from any other salad dressing. Try it yourself. See? Why, it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. And now, the case of the Sweet Swindle. It's early Sunday afternoon in New York and a stocky character named Joe Hardy runs up the steps of a small rooming house on New York's west side. And the reason for Mr. Hardy's hate is apparent. Joe has just struck gold and he's on his way to notify a fellow prospector.
Joe Hardy
Irene. Irene, open up.
Ed Hurley
Is that you, Joe? Yeah.
Irene Kent
Okay. Wait a second.
Joe Hardy
It's good to see you, baby. How are you?
Irene Kent
A lot you care.
Joe Hardy
You're not Sorry about my standing up last night.
Irene Kent
Of course not.
Joe Hardy
Oh, come on, Irene. I got great news.
Irene Kent
Don't tell me you got a job, Joe. I couldn't stand that.
Joe Hardy
Yeah, well, take a look at this.
Irene Kent
Where'd you get that money?
Joe Hardy
Never you mind. This is just the down payment. There's plenty more where this came from.
Irene Kent
Joe, what have you done?
Joe Hardy
Nothing grabby for him.
Irene Kent
You sure?
Joe Hardy
I'm positive. You ever hear of a guy named Waller Blake?
Irene Kent
No.
Joe Hardy
How about Larry Nichols?
Irene Kent
Nichols the boogie?
Joe Hardy
That's the boy. This guy Blake is bankroller.
Irene Kent
Well, wait a minute. Seems to me I remember reading something about him. Isn't like the guy whose wife ran off and took his daughter with her about 15 years ago?
Joe Hardy
It's longer than that, Irene. Almost 20.
Irene Kent
The cops never did find them, did they?
Joe Hardy
No, the cops didn't. But someone else was luckier.
Irene Kent
What are you getting at?
Joe Hardy
I know where Blake's daughter is.
Ed Hurley
Irene what? Uh huh.
Joe Hardy
And there's a 50 grand reward still out for her.
Irene Kent
Well, where is she?
Joe Hardy
Not very far from here. In fact, I'm looking at her right now.
Irene Kent
Are you out of your mind?
Joe Hardy
What's the matter? Doesn't being Waller Blake's daughter appeal to you?
Irene Kent
No. I could know in a minute I'm not the right girl.
Joe Hardy
I doubt it. The kid was only seven years old when her mother dragged her off. And kids change a lot in 20 years. Incidentally, I forgot to mention her name was Irene, too. How's that for a coincidence for you, huh?
Irene Kent
It stinks. Joe, you can't be stinking serious about this.
Ed Hurley
Can't I? No.
Irene Kent
You'll never get away with it.
Joe Hardy
What if I told you that someone very close to Blake is furnishing me with all the necessary information about the kid?
Ed Hurley
Who?
Joe Hardy
That's none of your business. But this party is in a position to get everything we need. By the time you and Daddy Blake meet, you'll know all the answers.
Irene Kent
I'm not going to do it.
Joe Hardy
Oh, yes, you will.
Irene Kent
Oh, no, I won't. Every time I've listened to you, I've wound up beyond the eighth floor.
Joe Hardy
This is definitely.
Irene Kent
You've said that before.
Joe Hardy
Now, let's get this straight, Irene. I've got an appointment with Blake tomorrow afternoon at 3. By that time, I expect you know everything there is about his daughter. Here's a list of stuff I want you to memorize. Hey, what's the idea of tearing it?
Irene Kent
I'm not gonna do it.
Joe Hardy
Joe, pick up those scraps.
Irene Kent
No.
Joe Hardy
I said pick them up.
Ed Hurley
Well, all right.
Joe Hardy
Now Sit down and put them together. By the time I get through with you, you're going to know those questions and answers so well you'll be able to do a guest shot on the Quiz Kids.
Les Damon
Hello. I'd like to talk to Walter Blake, please.
Ed Hurley
This is Walter Blake speaking.
Les Damon
Hi, Walter. This is Mike Waring.
Ed Hurley
Oh. Oh, yes, Mike. How are you? Fine.
Les Damon
Say, I heard you were approached by a character named Joe Hardy who claims he can put you in touch with your daughter.
Ed Hurley
So?
Les Damon
So my advice to you is to have nothing to do with him.
Ed Hurley
This wouldn't be professional jealousy, would it, Mike?
Les Damon
What are you talking about?
Ed Hurley
Just because Joe Hardy's a competitor of yours.
Les Damon
Look, Blake, I called you as a friend. This boy Hardy's a private detective. Sure, but he's also a faker. He'll clean you out like a Hoover vacuum.
Ed Hurley
You're a fine one to talk. Just because you could never locate Irene, you don't want anyone else to succeed. You thought she was dead.
Les Damon
Now, listen to me, Walter.
Ed Hurley
Sorry, I haven't the time, Mike. Larry Nichols and I are supposed to meet Hardy at 3. I'm not going to take a chance on your delaying us. Well, you're looking at rain, Blake. You look at it, Nichols. You sure this fellow Joe Hardy said he'd be here at 3? That's right. Well, that clock's almost a half hour slow. What do you suppose is keeping him? Maybe it's his conscience. What do you mean, Nichols? I wouldn't kid you, Blake. We've been partners too long. From the little you've told me, I wouldn't be surprised if this boy Hardy's a phony. Mike Waring. I don't care what he claims. Hardy had a piece of the dress Irene was wearing when her mother took her away. Is that why you gave him a thousand bucks? Yes. You're supposed to be a tough mug. Look, Blake, I know how you feel about this, but didn't it occur to you Hardy could have gotten the description of the dress from the papers? No, we never released it. Well, I still think you've heard the last of him. Why don't you just forget that? Come in.
Jerry Blake
Hello, Uncle Warner.
Ed Hurley
Oh, it's you, Jerry.
Jerry Blake
What's the matter? Am I a disease?
Ed Hurley
Carrie? Your uncle's a little disappointed, kid.
Jerry Blake
What did I do now?
Ed Hurley
It's not you.
Jerry Blake
That Joe Hardy character, hadn't he been here yet?
Ed Hurley
No.
Les Damon
What?
Jerry Blake
Don't worry, Uncle. It's pouring outside. He probably was detained.
Ed Hurley
Let's hope it's permanent. Why, I think your uncle's throwing his money away.
Jerry Blake
I don't agree with you, Mr. Nichols. He's got no family but me. If there's the slightest possibility of this girl turning out to be Irene, why.
Ed Hurley
Shouldn'T he gamble a few dollars? It's not just a few dollars. It's 50 grand.
Jerry Blake
I still think they're good odds if you ask me.
Ed Hurley
That must be hottie. Come in.
Joe Hardy
That no, Mr. Blake. Sorry I'm late. I couldn't get a cab.
Ed Hurley
Well, the important thing is that you're here now. I don't believe you know these gentlemen.
Joe Hardy
Uh, no, I don't.
Ed Hurley
This is my partner, Larry Nichols.
Les Damon
A pleasure. Hello.
Ed Hurley
And this is my nephew, Jerry.
Jerry Blake
Glad to know you, Mr. Hardy.
Joe Hardy
Smeechu.
Ed Hurley
Well, now we can get down to business.
Joe Hardy
Well, if you don't mind, Mr. Blake, I'd rather be alone.
Ed Hurley
You afraid of witnesses?
Jerry Blake
Now, cut it out, Nichols.
Ed Hurley
He's a crook. Jerry.
Joe Hardy
You want to be careful with those accusations, mister.
Ed Hurley
All right, Nichols, that's enough. I'm old enough to look after myself. Well, if that's the way you want it, Blake. That's the way I want it. You coming, Jerry?
Jerry Blake
Good luck to you, uncle. Nice knowing you, Mr. Hardy.
Ed Hurley
Yeah.
Joe Hardy
I'll see you around sometime. Nice boy and nephew.
Ed Hurley
Yes, Jerry's all right.
Joe Hardy
But you're interested in someone closer home.
Les Damon
That's right.
Joe Hardy
Well, I promised you more evidence that this girl was your daughter, Irene. Well, would you happen to know offhand what she was carrying the day she disappeared?
Ed Hurley
Yes. Yes, there was a red school bag trimmed with black leather.
Joe Hardy
Anything else you remember about it?
Ed Hurley
Her initials, I.B. were embossed on the top.
Joe Hardy
Let me open this package.
Ed Hurley
That's Irene's bag.
Joe Hardy
I was sure it was.
Ed Hurley
Where did you find it?
Joe Hardy
In Los Angeles. Took a lot of work to dig it out.
Ed Hurley
Where is she now?
Joe Hardy
Aren't you forgetting something, Mr. Blake?
Les Damon
Huh?
Mike Waring
Oh.
Ed Hurley
Oh, you mean the reward money? I've got it right here. Here? It's in $100 bill, just as you ask.
Joe Hardy
That's fine.
Ed Hurley
Well, where is she?
Joe Hardy
2126 Chalmers Avenue.
Ed Hurley
2126 Chalmers? Yeah.
Joe Hardy
She's living in a furnished room under the name of Irene Kent.
Ed Hurley
Does she expect me?
Joe Hardy
Yeah, I told her you'd be around around five.
Ed Hurley
I can't thank you enough, Hardy.
Joe Hardy
Oh, don't thank me, Mr. Blake. It was a pleasure to s you. I'm sure you and your daughter will be very happy.
Ed Hurley
Begin. Hello, Irene. You're.
Irene Kent
You're not.
Ed Hurley
Yes, I am.
Irene Kent
I don't know what to say.
Ed Hurley
Why don't you start by inviting me in.
Irene Kent
You'll have to excuse me.
Ed Hurley
I know it's not every day you find a new father, but you'll get used to it.
Irene Kent
Did I turn out the way you expected?
Ed Hurley
I don't know what I expected. You were only seven when your mother took you away. Incidentally, where is she?
Irene Kent
She died two years ago.
Ed Hurley
Well, why didn't you let me know?
Irene Kent
Mother never mentioned you. We didn't even use your name.
Ed Hurley
Didn't you remember anything at all about me?
Irene Kent
Very little, I'm afraid.
Ed Hurley
I've made a million plans, Irene. Now, the first thing we've got to do is to get you out of it. Where did you get that picture?
Irene Kent
It's Mother's.
Ed Hurley
Tear it up.
Irene Kent
Oh, now, dad.
Ed Hurley
I'm sorry, Irene. I have no right to ask that. Your mother did a terrible thing to me. But she was crazy about you.
Irene Kent
Yes, she always worried about me. Remember how she wouldn't let me use the skates you bought?
Ed Hurley
Yeah. We had quite a fight over that.
Irene Kent
And it was the same story when you brought home the bicycle and the pony. She accused you of wanting to kill me.
Ed Hurley
You remember the pony?
Irene Kent
Like it was yesterday. He was a brown Shetland with a white star on his nose.
Ed Hurley
You remember the saddle I bought?
Irene Kent
It wasn't a saddle. It was a cart.
Ed Hurley
So it was.
Irene Kent
What's the matter, Father?
Ed Hurley
I'm just trying to figure out something.
Irene Kent
What?
Ed Hurley
How you learned about that pony and cartoon.
Irene Kent
I remembered it.
Ed Hurley
You couldn't. Very well, Irene. You see, I ordered the pony for your eighth birthday, and it was delivered the day after my wife ran away.
Irene Kent
I don't understand.
Ed Hurley
Yes, you do. You're not my daughter.
Irene Kent
You're making a mistake.
Les Damon
No.
Ed Hurley
The mistake I made was earlier today when I believed Joe Hardy. You're not Irene.
Irene Kent
Stay away from me.
Ed Hurley
You're not my little girl. Where is she?
Mike Waring
No, where is she.
Ed Hurley
Wearing that? Can you use this place as an office or something? Please? Please.
Les Damon
Nichols, my friend Ed is a very sensitive fellow. The name of this place is Ed's Luncheonette. See the big red sign? And his rent office does fine for that, too. But right now I want to eat.
Ed Hurley
What do you say we order? Oh, I've already eaten. You go ahead. No, Jerry's not here yet anyway.
Les Damon
Okay. When he gets here, we'll talk.
Ed Hurley
Say, Ed. Oh, hi, Mike. Glad you dropped by.
Les Damon
Well, what's good today, Ed?
Ed Hurley
Now, that's a fine thing to ask a cook. Naturally, everything's good. Oh. Oh.
Les Damon
Most humble apologies.
Ed Hurley
That's better. Yeah.
Les Damon
Well, what's especially good.
Ed Hurley
Well, let's see. I got some real good shrimp. Mike, I could make a shrimp salad I know you'd go for.
Les Damon
You know I'd like it, huh?
Ed Hurley
I sure do, because I make it with Miracle Whip. And the salad dressing's a mighty important part of a salad, you know. Oh, I. Sure. Why?
Les Damon
Did you ever hear of a self respecting salad going out without dressing?
Ed Hurley
No, really, Mike. Salad dressing adds flavor like Miracle Whip here. It adds a real peppy flavor. Sharp, but not too sharp, Mike. Most folks say Miracle Whip tastes just exactly right. Do you know the craft salesman told me that Miracle Whip outsells the next 20 leading brands of salad dressing combined? Sure. So it's really America's favorite salad dressing. Folks must like it a lot. My customers sure do. Hey, smooth, huh? Yeah, sure is, Mike. Miracle Whip is just as smooth as satin.
Les Damon
No, no, Ed, Ed, I met that cute little blonde that just went by.
Ed Hurley
Oh, well, all right.
Les Damon
I'll have that trim salad and make it with plenty of Miracle Whip, will you?
Ed Hurley
Oh, it'll be a pleasure, Mike.
Les Damon
You sure you don't want anything?
Ed Hurley
No, no, no, thanks.
Les Damon
Okay. Say, here comes our boy now. Hello, Jerry.
Ed Hurley
How are you? Sit down.
Jerry Blake
Hello, Waring.
Ed Hurley
Nichols.
Jerry Blake
Has Nichols talked to you about what we want yet, Mike?
Ed Hurley
I left it for you, Jerry.
Jerry Blake
Well, now, you're my uncle's friend, Mike. You've got to do something and do it fast before there's any more trouble.
Les Damon
Well, maybe I'm sick, but I don't see what you two want done.
Ed Hurley
Now, don't look at me, Waring. This is Jerry's baby. I'm washing my hands of the whole business.
Les Damon
You didn't approve of Blake giving Joe Hardy that money, Nicholson?
Ed Hurley
No, I smelled a rat right from the beginning. I warned Blake this would happen.
Les Damon
Where's your uncle now, Jerry?
Jerry Blake
That's just the trouble, Mike. We don't know. He called Nichols about a half hour ago.
Les Damon
What did he have to say?
Ed Hurley
Nothing much. Only he got a lead to Joe Hardy and he made an appointment to meet him at his hotel later tonight.
Les Damon
Well, I don't think there's much chance of Hardy showing up after this.
Jerry Blake
That's where you're wrong. Hardy doesn't know what my uncle wants him for.
Les Damon
You must have some idea, Jerry.
Ed Hurley
Nope.
Jerry Blake
According to Nichols, my uncle told Hardy he was so pleased that the way things turned out, he wanted to give him a bonus.
Les Damon
You don't think Hardy will fall for that? He probably learned what happened from that girl.
Ed Hurley
That's what I told Blake. But he Said the girl wouldn't talk.
Les Damon
What's to prevent her?
Ed Hurley
I can think of several things, all of them unpleasant.
Jerry Blake
What do you suggest, Mike? If my uncle finds Hardy there, I'll kill him. Now you're the only one who can reason with him. I didn't have much luck when I tried it earlier.
Les Damon
What's the name of Hardy's hotel?
Jerry Blake
It's the park size off Madison.
Les Damon
What time was the appointment for?
Ed Hurley
1 o' clock, I think.
Les Damon
It's almost that now by the time I find a cab.
Jerry Blake
Well, you can take my car.
Ed Hurley
I thought yours was in the shop, Jerry.
Jerry Blake
I got a new one this morning.
Les Damon
Wait a minute.
Jerry Blake
Here are the keys, Mike. It's parked right in front of the place. You can't miss it. It's a convertible.
Ed Hurley
Okay.
Les Damon
Well how do you like that? After the big buildup that gave us about the salad, I have to rush off without touching it. Well, stick around fellas. I'll be back as soon as I can. Uh oh.
Ed Hurley
All right mister, pull over to the curb.
Les Damon
Listen Officer, I'm in a hurry.
Mike Waring
You can't stop me now.
Ed Hurley
Oh, can't?
Les Damon
Well, I guess you.
Ed Hurley
Now get out. What for? Don't ask so many questions. All right, where's your license?
Les Damon
I got it right here in my. That's funny.
Ed Hurley
You left it in your other suit.
Les Damon
I must have. All right, give me the ticket. Let's get it over with.
Ed Hurley
Just take it easy. But where's your ownership car?
Les Damon
I don't have any.
Ed Hurley
What happened to that?
Les Damon
This car doesn't belong to me.
Ed Hurley
Didn't your mother tell you it wasn't nice to steal?
Les Damon
Oh, don't talk like a jerk. This isn't hot.
Ed Hurley
Isn't it?
Les Damon
No, I borrowed it from a man named Jerry Blake.
Ed Hurley
You should have told him in advance. What are you talking about? You'll find out.
Les Damon
Look Officer, all this can be straightened out. But I haven't got time to do it now.
Ed Hurley
I suppose you're bound on a mission of life and death. You're not kidding? No. Only it's going to be your life, mister, if you don't start following orders. Now get in your car and follow me. All right, Baker, open em up. You got a visitor.
Mike Waring
Waring.
Ed Hurley
Jerry.
Jerry Blake
Hello, Mike.
Ed Hurley
Look, will you tell this big stick I already have? Blame me mister. I'm just a cop. I got a signal to pick up.
Mike Waring
A hot car and I did.
Jerry Blake
What hot car?
Ed Hurley
Well, I showed you the records, didn't I? We got a call at 9:45, Jerry.
Les Damon
Did you report that car stolen? No, well, then who else put it?
Ed Hurley
Where's Larry Nichols?
Jerry Blake
Nichols?
Ed Hurley
Yes.
Les Damon
He was with you when I left Ed's luncheonette.
Jerry Blake
Well, he left right after you did.
Ed Hurley
Is that so? Yeah.
Jerry Blake
He said he had to get back to work.
Les Damon
Well, maybe I can imagine what that work is. What do you mean? Come on. We're an hour late now. I'll draw you a diagram on the way over. What floor did the superintendent say Joe Hardy was on?
Ed Hurley
8.8C.
Les Damon
What's the matter with you, Jerry? You look baffled.
Jerry Blake
I am, Mike. I, I, I can't believe there's any connection between Hardy and Larry Nick.
Les Damon
Well, there's got to be. Nichols was the only one who knew.
Ed Hurley
I borrowed your car.
Les Damon
So he must have been the one who reported it stolen after he left Ed's place.
Ed Hurley
But what was the point?
Les Damon
To delay me in getting here in time to keep your uncle from laying hands on Hardy. Here's the elevator. Come on. Get in.
Jerry Blake
Oh, Jay, it, it just doesn't make sense. If Hardy and Nichols were working together, all Nichols would have to do was phone him and warn him that my uncle was on his way over.
Les Damon
Maybe he didn't want to warn him.
Jerry Blake
I don't get it.
Les Damon
Maybe Nichols wanted Joe Hardy to get himself killed.
Jerry Blake
How do you figure that?
Ed Hurley
Well, who would take the rap?
Jerry Blake
Why, my uncle, I guess.
Les Damon
And your uncle and Nichols were business partners. And if Nichols has been playing fast and loose with partnership funds, he might want your uncle tucked away where he couldn't ask any embarrassing questions.
Jerry Blake
You're crazy, Mike.
Les Damon
We'll soon see. Must be down this way then.
Jerry Blake
Then you think we're going to find Joe Hardy's body, don't you? I don't know what to think anymore.
Ed Hurley
Mayday.
Les Damon
Ah, here we are.
Jerry Blake
I borrowed the keys from the superintendent.
Les Damon
Good boy.
Jerry Blake
Whole party won't object.
Les Damon
I don't think you'll be in a position to. The light switch ought to be somewhere around.
Jerry Blake
Oh, I got it, Mike.
Les Damon
Shut the door.
Jerry Blake
You were right.
Les Damon
No, I wasn't. I was wrong.
Ed Hurley
What?
Les Damon
Look again, Jerry. This isn't Joe Hardy. This is your uncle Walter Blake.
Irene Kent
What do you want?
Les Damon
Well, that all depends. You Irene Kent?
Irene Kent
Who wants to know?
Les Damon
Oh, I beg your pardon. My name is Mike Waring.
Irene Kent
That still means nothing in my young life.
Les Damon
We'll have to remedy that in the future. If you have a future.
Irene Kent
What kind of a crack is that?
Les Damon
Judging from those bruises on your neck, Irene, someone must be awfully peeved at you.
Irene Kent
What do you want, mister?
Ed Hurley
Okay, where's Joe Hardy?
Les Damon
Why, Walter Blake Was murdered tonight.
Irene Kent
Blake. Did Joe kill him?
Les Damon
I can make out a very convincing case. So you better start talking, Irene. You know an accessory to a murder.
Irene Kent
I give you My word, Mr. Waring, I didn't have anything to do with that.
Les Damon
You posed as Blake's daughter.
Irene Kent
I didn't want to. Joe made me.
Les Damon
Where's Hardy now?
Irene Kent
I have no idea. I haven't heard from him since early this morning.
Les Damon
Did he know that Blake discovered you were a phony?
Irene Kent
If he did, he didn't get it from me.
Les Damon
Why not?
Irene Kent
Why? I didn't know where to reach him.
Les Damon
Yet you told Blake where Hardy could be found.
Irene Kent
I didn't expect Joe to be there.
Les Damon
Who put your boyfriend up to the swindle?
Irene Kent
I. I don't know.
Les Damon
Come on, Irene. Who supplied all the background material?
Irene Kent
I swear I don't know.
Les Damon
Well, I've got an idea. And for your sake, I hope it turns out a little better than my last.
Ed Hurley
Just a second.
Les Damon
Sorry to disturb you at this hour, Nicholas.
Ed Hurley
Oh, Mike.
Les Damon
Can I come in?
Ed Hurley
Sure.
Les Damon
Thanks. Hear about Blake? Yeah. Tough.
Ed Hurley
Well, I warned him not to have anything to do with Hardy.
Les Damon
So did I. But I still can't help feeling this is partly my fault.
Ed Hurley
Why?
Les Damon
Maybe I would have gotten there in time to stop it if I hadn't been grabbed by the police.
Ed Hurley
Grabbed by the police?
Les Damon
Yeah. Oh, didn't you know?
Ed Hurley
They picked me up while driving Jerry's car.
Les Damon
They had a report it was stolen.
Ed Hurley
Who did they?
Les Damon
But I'm glad you asked me, Nicholas, because I had an idea it might be you.
Ed Hurley
Have you blown your top?
Les Damon
Mike thought you were going to stay at Ed's place until I returned.
Ed Hurley
I had some business to attend to.
Les Damon
And you gave it all to me.
Ed Hurley
You're out of your mind. Did it ever occur to you that Jerry might have notified the cops? Oh, sure, sure.
Les Damon
But I like your qualifications better. First of all, you were working with Joe Hardy. You gave him all the information he needed to pass Irene off as Blake's daughter.
Ed Hurley
Now, you're forgetting I was the one who told Blake not to pay.
Les Damon
That was smart of you, Nichols. That way you gave yourself a note.
Ed Hurley
I couldn't have been too smart if you got the goods on me.
Les Damon
Well, I had help. Irene told me your name.
Ed Hurley
You're lying. She didn't.
Les Damon
Yeah, go on, Nichols. Finish it. She didn't know that you were in the operation? No. You told me that yourself.
Ed Hurley
Jerry might have dug up that picture.
Les Damon
Of Mrs. Blake and a few other bits of information, but he never would have known about the dress. And the pony. He was only a kid himself at the time.
Ed Hurley
Got it all figured out, haven't you?
Les Damon
I like to think so.
Ed Hurley
Well, tell me something. Did you figure on this?
Les Damon
Put away the gun, Nicholas. That isn't going to get you anything.
Ed Hurley
That's where you're wrong. For one thing, it's going to get me a head start. And yours is just the head to supply it to. Who's there? Who's there?
Joe Hardy
Nothing to get frightened about, Irene. It's only me.
Irene Kent
Joe.
Joe Hardy
What's the matter, baby? You act like you're seeing a ghost.
Irene Kent
Well, I thought that.
Joe Hardy
What, I'd skip out on you now? You know Irene, that's not my type.
Norma Wallace
What are you doing here?
Joe Hardy
I got a date to meet a friend of mine. Fellow named Larry Nichols.
Irene Kent
Nichols?
Ed Hurley
Yeah.
Irene Kent
I don't think he'll be here, Joe.
Joe Hardy
Why not?
Irene Kent
Well, a man named Mike Wearing was here about an hour ago.
Ed Hurley
Going and.
Irene Kent
All there is to it.
Joe Hardy
No, there must be a little more. What'd you tell Wearing? Nothing, Joe, except.
Irene Kent
Well, when he said Walter Blake was murdered, I.
Joe Hardy
You gave him every little bit of help you could.
Irene Kent
I didn't tell him much, Joe.
Joe Hardy
Well, that's not your fault, honey. After all, how much did you know? What bothers me is what you might say if Waring got back to you again.
Ed Hurley
Again?
Joe Hardy
No, I can't take a chance on that, baby. Listen, Joe, why r. You can see that for yourself. The first opportunity you'll crack wide open. Now, what are we going to do about that?
Ed Hurley
Well. Well, I guess Joe doesn't know what to do either. I say either because I think there are lots of folks who don't know what to do with time. Now, maybe you don't know what to do to get your family to eat salads. You don't? Well, make those salads with Miracle Whip.
Irene Kent
Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing Miracle Whip only one of its kind Miracle Whip Best salad dressing you'll find.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip is the only one of its kind because it's a different type of salad dressing Made from a secret craft recipe Miracle Whip combines the best qualities of boiled dressing and old fashioned mayonnaise so it's truly distinctive and delicious With a flavor millions of folks call just exactly right. Try it, won't you? One taste will tell you why It's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. Now, back to the adventures of the Falcon. Several hours have passed since Mike tangled with Larry Nichols and came off second best. And now our Hero staggers to his feet and heads for the phone. Then, with none too certain fingers, he dials the police. 102nd Precinct. Sergeant Lewis.
Les Damon
Hello, Sergeant. This is Mike Waring.
Ed Hurley
Where the devil have you been, Mike? We've been looking for you for the past hour.
Les Damon
Well, I was out.
Ed Hurley
Where?
Les Damon
Just plain out. Look, have you picked up Joe Hardy yet for the Blake murder?
Ed Hurley
How?
Les Damon
Well, while you're at it, you might as well get out an alarm for Larry Nichols. And you're probably too late for a girl named Irene Kent.
Ed Hurley
How you know that?
Les Damon
I figured Hardy must have taken her away with him.
Ed Hurley
That's where you're wrong, Mike. She was left behind.
Les Damon
I can't imagine why you would if.
Ed Hurley
You saw her now. She's got two big bullet holes right where her heart used to be. Yes?
Les Damon
Hello, Jerry.
Jerry Blake
Mike.
Ed Hurley
Hey, what happened to your head?
Les Damon
Oh, just trying to prove what goes on when an irresistible force meets an immovable object. Come on in.
Ed Hurley
Sit down. Nice.
Jerry Blake
Anything new?
Les Damon
Yeah. Irene Kent was murdered.
Ed Hurley
What?
Les Damon
Shot, to be exact. Apparently an hour or two after I first spoke with her.
Jerry Blake
Was she able to tell you anything?
Les Damon
Enough to convince me I was right about Nichols. He was working with Joe Hardy.
Jerry Blake
I can't believe it.
Les Damon
Well, you can take it from me, it's true. Where do you think I picked up this knot on my head?
Jerry Blake
Nichols?
Ed Hurley
Who else?
Jerry Blake
Did he get away?
Les Damon
Yes, but I don't think he'll get very far.
Jerry Blake
I still say you're wrong.
Ed Hurley
Why?
Jerry Blake
He told my uncle in front of me that it was a mistake to deal with Hardy.
Les Damon
Well, I explained the reason for that before. You're even using it to clear him. The fellow I'd like to lay my hands on is Joe Hardy.
Jerry Blake
You think he's the one who did the actual killing?
Les Damon
We'll know as soon as we get a look at the gun.
Jerry Blake
I suppose if the slug they took out of my uncle matches those they took out of Irene, that'll be it.
Ed Hurley
Just about.
Mike Waring
Yeah, but.
Jerry Blake
But suppose Hardy gets rid of the cannon?
Ed Hurley
I don't see how he could.
Les Damon
If anyone was to do that, it would have to be you.
Jerry Blake
What are you babbling about?
Les Damon
Well, I'm sorry to give away your little secret, Jerry, but you killed your uncle and Irene Kent.
Ed Hurley
Ed. Ed. Yo.
Les Damon
Yeah.
Ed Hurley
More coffee, please.
Les Damon
Yeah, me too, Ed.
Ed Hurley
Right with you, fellas. Go on, Mike. I'm sorry I interrupted.
Les Damon
That's all right, Sergeant. You practically got it all anyway.
Ed Hurley
Am I to understand that Jerry was the one who notified us to pick you up in that car? Yeah, sure.
Les Damon
That gave him enough time to go over and kill his uncle.
Ed Hurley
Well, I can see his reason for that. With his uncle dead and with no other family around, Jerry would come into all of Blake's dough.
Les Damon
Uh huh.
Ed Hurley
But what was his motive in killing that dame Irene Kent?
Les Damon
The fact that he had no motive.
Ed Hurley
Wait a minute. Here you are, men.
Les Damon
No thanks, Ed. Now you see, Sergeant, when you found Irene dead, that made you believe her killer was either Nichols or Hardy, since she was tied up with him.
Ed Hurley
Go on.
Les Damon
All right. Now consider what would have happened if Walter Blake was the only victim. Sooner or later you would have realized that Jerry was a suspect with the best motive of all. By killing Irene, he made it appear that her death was tied up with the plot to clip his uncle. And we knew definitely he had nothing to do with that.
Ed Hurley
Well, what put you on the right track?
Les Damon
Well, you'll grant me that the one who tipped off the police to nab me in that stolen car wrap was the murderer.
Ed Hurley
Yeah, but how can you prove it was Jerry? Easy.
Les Damon
It's too bad I didn't think of it in time. See, Jerry's car was a brand new convertible. He'd only gotten it yesterday. Nichols never saw it. He was surprised when Jerry volunteered the keys to the car. So how could Nichols report it stolen? He didn't know the make, the color or the license number.
Ed Hurley
Hey, that's right.
Les Damon
I only wish I thought of it before I knocked myself out. You don't know what a problem this raises.
Ed Hurley
Why?
Les Damon
Well, Blake was my client and he's dead. And Jerry won't even talk to me now. So you tell me, to whom do I send my bills? This is Mike Waring. Friends, you probably heard people say defense is everybody's job. That maybe you haven't known just what you could do to help. Well, here's a way you can help Uncle Sam and yourself at the same time. Buy defense bonds. Help build your country's security and your own. Remember, defense bonds are rate of interest. Ask about the payroll savings plan where you work. Or if you're self employed, ask about the bond a month plan where you bank. Save your money the smart way. Buy defense bonds.
Ed Hurley
The Case of the Broken Fingerprint. The Case of the Broken Fingerprint. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon. When Mike Waring learned that if a fella tries to keep a girl from wasting her life, he may help her lose it. So be sure to listen at this same time next week to another exciting Adventure of the Falcon, brought to you by The Kraft Foods Company. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Shubert, written tonight by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arnold. The Kraft Foods Company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon, starring Les Damon. Hello?
Les Damon
Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Myra, thanks for calling, but I can't make it tonight, angel. Now, I have a client who's getting a lot of help from her boyfriend, and if I'm not careful, he's going to help her right into the electric chair.
Ed Hurley
This is Ed Hurley. He friends inviting you on behalf of the the Craft Foods Company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. You met the Falcon first in his bestselling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the broken fingerprint. Before the Falcon solves tonight's case, let's listen to this.
Irene Kent
Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing. Miracle Whip, only one of its kind. Miracle Whip best salad dressing you'll find.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip tastes really good. Not too sharp, not too mild, but just exactly right. And Miracle Whip tastes different, too. Different from any other salad dressing. Try it yourself. See? Why, it's America's favorite. Favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. And now, the case of the broken fingerprints. It's Wednesday night in New York, and the apartment of Barry barrow in the E60s is in darkness. Ethel Barrow sits in the darkened apartment, drumming on the arm of her chair with her fingernails. Now she reaches out to the table beside her and fumbles about on it for a cigarette lighter. She finds the lighter, lights it and uses its light to show her the time on her wristwatch. But when she hears voices outside the apartment, she flicks out the light quickly and stands up, facing the door. A key turns in the lock, front door opens, the light is turned on, and a man and woman entertainment. Ethel.
Ethel Barrow
Hello, Barry.
Ed Hurley
Oh, well, when did you.
Ethel Barrow
I decided not to go away after all. I thought things might be more interesting around here. Well, aren't you going to introduce me to your friend?
Norma Wallace
Yes, Barry, how about it?
Ed Hurley
Who is this Norma? I. She.
Ethel Barrow
Perhaps I'd better, since he's having so much trouble. I'm his wife, Ethel Barrow, and you're Norma Wallace. You live at 321 Pierce Place. You work at Corby's department store and you've known Barry for three months. I know all about you, Ms. Wallace, though I can't say I'm Pleased to meet you, Barry.
Norma Wallace
You never told me.
Ed Hurley
I. I was going to.
Norma Wallace
When? When you got tired of me?
Ethel Barrow
Or me?
Mike Waring
What can I say if we give.
Ethel Barrow
You a couple of minutes to get over the shock, Darling, I'm sure you'll think of plenty to say. But it's what you do that interests me.
Ed Hurley
What do you expect me to do?
Ethel Barrow
I expect you to act like a heel.
Les Damon
You always have.
Ed Hurley
You want a divorce? Settle.
Ethel Barrow
I'm not so sure I want to make things that easy.
Norma Wallace
Do you want a divorce, Barry?
Ed Hurley
I don't know what I want.
Ethel Barrow
I know what you want. You want an easy out. This is one of those times when three is a crowd. Somebody has to be eliminated. The only question is, who is it to be?
Norma Wallace
Yes. What can I do? Oh, Ted. What are you doing here?
Mike Waring
I'm just shopping. I'd like a five pound box of chocolate. Send it to Norma Wallace, 321 Pierce Place, with all my love.
Norma Wallace
Ted, please.
Mike Waring
I'm taking you to lunch.
Norma Wallace
You won't believe it's all over between.
Mike Waring
You and me just because of Barrow. Oh, he's got money, but I've got charm. Besides, I'm serious.
Norma Wallace
So is he.
Mike Waring
Want to bet?
Norma Wallace
He asked me to marry him.
Mike Waring
You're not going to.
Norma Wallace
As soon as he gets his divorce.
Mike Waring
Divorce? I didn't know he was married.
Norma Wallace
Neither did I.
Mike Waring
Nice guy.
Norma Wallace
He was going to tell me.
Mike Waring
Was going to. Does that mean that you found out for yourself?
Norma Wallace
I. I met his wife.
Mike Waring
It gets better all the time. You picked a lulu. Now look, Norman, no matter how things are between us, you can't go on with a guy like that.
Norma Wallace
No lectures, Ted. I'm not a child.
Mike Waring
Then don't act like one. You've got to break this off.
Norma Wallace
We're settling it tonight. He's coming up to my place. We're going to make our plans.
Mike Waring
Does his wife know?
Norma Wallace
No.
Mike Waring
Normally, you'll.
Norma Wallace
Let's not discuss it here.
Mike Waring
All right.
Ed Hurley
At lunch.
Norma Wallace
If you insist. But I'm warning you, you'll be wasting your time.
Mike Waring
I'll risk it if there's any chance I can keep you from wasting your life.
Ed Hurley
Hello?
Norma Wallace
Ted, can you come here right away?
Mike Waring
Where are you?
Norma Wallace
At home.
Mike Waring
What happened?
Norma Wallace
It's awful. I should have listened to you.
Mike Waring
What is it?
Norma Wallace
I told you Barry was coming up here.
Ed Hurley
Yes.
Norma Wallace
When I got home, he was already here.
Les Damon
Well, I found him on the floor.
Ed Hurley
He.
Norma Wallace
He's dead. Ted. Come in.
Ed Hurley
Yeah.
Norma Wallace
There he is.
Mike Waring
Did you touch anything?
Norma Wallace
No. That's just the way I found him.
Mike Waring
How'd he get in? Did he have a key?
Norma Wallace
No. I don't know how he got in. Maybe the door was open.
Mike Waring
Paul, that's no good.
Norma Wallace
Well, he doesn't have a key.
Mike Waring
Norma, I'm trying to help you.
Norma Wallace
You don't believe me. Searching.
Mike Waring
All right, he doesn't have a key. Then how are we going to explain his being here?
Norma Wallace
I don't know.
Mike Waring
We'll have to think of something. Can't afford any holes in your story.
Norma Wallace
But what can we say?
Mike Waring
You have to make up some explanation that'll hold water.
Norma Wallace
Maybe I'd better just call the police and tell the whole truth. As far as I know it.
Mike Waring
You asked me to help you, didn't you?
Norma Wallace
Yes.
Mike Waring
Then do it my way.
Norma Wallace
But he was here. That's the truth. Why can't I just say they'll never believe it?
Mike Waring
I don't believe it.
Norma Wallace
It's the truth.
Mike Waring
There's no use repeating that. It's just no good. Now, let's see.
Ed Hurley
He was killed here.
Mike Waring
There's no avoiding that. But the door being unlocked will never stand up. I know what you can say. You were here when it happened. You let him in. Oh, no, Ted, don't worry.
Norma Wallace
But then I'd have seen.
Mike Waring
Not necessarily. I'll drag him over here to the door. Then I'll tell you what to say. And then you'll call Michael Waring.
Norma Wallace
Michael Waring?
Mike Waring
Yeah, the Falcon. He's a private detective.
Norma Wallace
But what do I want with him? He might find out something the police overlooked. If it's something we're trying to hide.
Mike Waring
That'S the chance we'll have to take. And that's just the point. If you were guilty, you wouldn't want to take that chance. By hiring Waring, you convince the police of your innocence.
Norma Wallace
Well, I hope you know what you're doing.
Mike Waring
Don't worry, darling. You can stake your life on it.
Norma Wallace
I'd better be able to, Ted, because that's exactly what I'm doing. When I found out he was married, I didn't want to have anything to do with him. Do you know how it is, Mr. Waring? He wouldn't take no for an answer. Found out where I lived and came up to see me.
Les Damon
And you gave him the final brush?
Norma Wallace
Yes. And then he went to the door, opened it, and then he saw someone in the hall. They had a few words, and then there was a shot.
Les Damon
What words?
Norma Wallace
I don't remember exactly. He said something like, oh, it's you. And she said, yes. Surprise, isn't it? I think that's what it was.
Les Damon
You say she said?
Norma Wallace
Yes. It was a woman's voice.
Les Damon
But you didn't see her?
Norma Wallace
No. He was in the way?
Ed Hurley
No.
Les Damon
Where were you?
Norma Wallace
Right over here.
Les Damon
That's funny.
Norma Wallace
What is?
Les Damon
That he blocked your view of the doorway. You say he dropped immediately when he was shot and you haven't touched anything.
Norma Wallace
That's right.
Les Damon
And to block your view, he would have had to be standing in the doorway. And he fell forward because he's lying on his face. So he should have fallen into the hall. Instead he's in the room into the side of the door so that we can swing it open and closed without hitting him.
Norma Wallace
Maybe he staggered back.
Les Damon
Did he?
Norma Wallace
I don't remember. I was too startled. He must have. What are you doing?
Les Damon
What you should have done when it happened instead of calling me and calling the police.
Norma Wallace
But you are going to help me.
Les Damon
Well, I'll try to find out who the murderer is if you still want me to. But I'm not so sure that comes under the heading of help, are you?
Mike Waring
Hello, Mike. Hi, Ed.
Ed Hurley
How's business? Oh, hectic. And for you too, huh? Yeah. Sergeant Corbett has phoned three times for you this morning.
Les Damon
Oh, thanks, Ed. I told him I was having lunch here. What does he want?
Ed Hurley
Oh, I don't know, but he sounded sore.
Les Damon
Well, now, what can be troubling him? I called him in on the case as soon as things broke yesterday.
Ed Hurley
Well, all I know is he keeps calling here and he sounds like he has more than hamburger and coleslaw in his mine.
Les Damon
Well, maybe he has, but you know, right at this moment, I don't. I'm hungry.
Ed Hurley
All right, what'll it be, Mike?
Les Damon
I don't know. Let's see. As far as I'm concerned, Ed's Luncheonette serves the best hamburger in town.
Ed Hurley
That's right.
Les Damon
All right, make it a nice big one.
Ed Hurley
Some french fries and some of my special coleslaw.
Les Damon
Yeah. Trying to sneak a salad in on me again?
Ed Hurley
Now, Mike, you know you've got to eat salad. They get lots of vitamins and minerals, the stuff you should have.
Les Damon
Yeah, sure.
Ed Hurley
Honestly, you think they didn't taste good? The way you talk.
Les Damon
Well, I didn't say that.
Ed Hurley
Well, I should hope not. My salads taste mighty good.
Les Damon
And you know why? Yes, because you make them with your own lily white hands from recipes handed down from your great great grandmother on your father's side.
Ed Hurley
Yes. No, Mike, not at all. It's the salad dressing I use. It's Miracle Whip.
Les Damon
Not so loud. Somebody might be listening.
Ed Hurley
Oh, it's no secret, Mike. Folks everywhere know about Miracle Whip. Why, the craft salesman told me just yesterday that more Miracle Whip is sold than the next 20 leading brands of salad dressing combined. So it's America's favorite salad dressing. Imagine that.
Les Damon
Well, I'll try. Does it come in a solid gold jar or something?
Ed Hurley
No, Mike. It's just mighty good tasting. And folks know a good thing when they taste it. Miracle Whip has a swell, peppy flavor. A flavor that isn't too sharp either. My customers call it just right. And you know, Miracle Whip tastes different too, because it really is a different kind of salad dressing. That's why they call it the one and only.
Les Damon
Ed.
Ed Hurley
Yes, Mike?
Les Damon
Now that I've succeeded in getting you all excited about what seems to be your favorite subject, I better tell you.
Ed Hurley
Tell me what?
Les Damon
I've been enjoying Miracle Whip on salads for years.
Ed Hurley
No kidding. Yeah, sure.
Les Damon
After all, I should know my salad dressing.
Ed Hurley
How come?
Les Damon
Well, I've had dates with lots of people, Peaches. But I'll settle. Renault or Coleslaw right now.
Ed Hurley
That'll be a pleasure, Mike. I know you'll like it. Oh, there's more than I can say for your interview with Sergeant Corbett. Oh, here he comes. And if you think I was kidding about his being sore, catch that look in his eyes.
Mike Waring
All right, Waring, where is she?
Les Damon
Where is who?
Mike Waring
Of course you don't know who I'm talking about.
Les Damon
I'm glad we agree on something.
Mike Waring
The girl, Norma Wallace.
Les Damon
You're working for her and you found it out all by yourself. All right, what do you want, a pat on the head or a recommendation to the chief?
Mike Waring
I want to know what's become of the girl.
Les Damon
Well, I assume she's done the vanishing act.
Mike Waring
You assume? I questioned her last night, went to talk to her again today.
Les Damon
And she stood you up. You better start reading the ads, chum.
Mike Waring
You know where she is.
Les Damon
Your confidence is touching. But as a matter of fact, Corbett.
Mike Waring
I haven't the slightest idea what you're working for.
Les Damon
Yes, so you said. So I ought to be the one who's excited, not you. Seems I've lost a client.
Mike Waring
Stop being funny.
Les Damon
Thanks for the compliment.
Mike Waring
Are you gonna talk?
Les Damon
Gladly. What about?
Mike Waring
All right, Waring, all right. But I'm gonna prove you've been holding out. And when I do.
Les Damon
Oh, I shudder to think of it. Come on, sit down, Corbett. I see they have brains on the menu today. Why don't you try some? Yes? Hello. You Mrs. Baron?
Norma Wallace
Yes.
Les Damon
My name is Michael Wearing. I'm investigating Your husband's murder.
Ethel Barrow
Are you a detective?
Les Damon
Yes.
Ethel Barrow
That girl sent you.
Les Damon
What girl?
Ethel Barrow
Norma Wallace.
Les Damon
What do you know about her?
Ethel Barrow
Enough.
Les Damon
Enough to be jealous.
Ethel Barrow
That's what she'd like you to think, Mr. Waring. She wants you to believe that I killed Barry.
Les Damon
You had motive, so did she.
Ethel Barrow
It takes three to make a triangle. And then there's Donahue.
Ed Hurley
Who?
Ethel Barrow
Ted Donahue. He fits another triangle, and I'm not in that one.
Mike Waring
Well, how so?
Ethel Barrow
He was the Wallace girl's boyfriend. He could have resented Barry's cutting him out.
Les Damon
Yes, so he could. Well, thank you, Mrs. Barrow. I knew you'd help me.
Ethel Barrow
You're easy to satisfy.
Les Damon
Well, I'm not striking you off my suspect list yet. But right now, I'm not looking for the murderer. I'm looking for my client.
Mike Waring
Yes? What do you want?
Les Damon
You Ted Donahue?
Mike Waring
Yeah. Who are you?
Les Damon
Mike Waring. May I come in?
Mike Waring
Why?
Les Damon
I want to talk to you. What about?
Ed Hurley
Norma Wallace.
Mike Waring
We can talk here.
Les Damon
Yes, but it'll be more comfortable inside.
Mike Waring
What do you want to know where she is. What makes you think I'd know?
Les Damon
Well, you're trying to keep me out, for one thing.
Mike Waring
You think she's here?
Les Damon
I'm beginning to.
Mike Waring
All right, come on in. Look for yourself.
Les Damon
Thanks. That's better.
Mike Waring
I haven't seen Norma in weeks.
Les Damon
Why not? You get the air?
Mike Waring
No. It's just that I never knew Norma very well.
Les Damon
That's not what she says.
Mike Waring
What do you mean? She didn't tell you anything about me.
Les Damon
How do you know if you haven't seen her?
Mike Waring
There's nothing to say.
Les Damon
Okay. If Norma isn't your girl, who is?
Mike Waring
I don't have a girl.
Les Damon
Then who's the girl who was up here a little while ago?
Mike Waring
What girl?
Les Damon
The one who left the lipstick on that glass.
Ed Hurley
Just.
Mike Waring
Just a friend.
Les Damon
No. Do you mind if I take this glass?
Mike Waring
What do you want with it?
Les Damon
I'm looking for Norma. I think you're a lead. But in case Corbett needs convincing, it may be the prints on this glass that will change his mind for him.
Mike Waring
Put that down.
Les Damon
Karbaya doesn't like it.
Mike Waring
I said put it down. Hey, watch y' all me that glass.
Les Damon
You shouldn't knock it out of my hand. Now it's broken.
Mike Waring
Isn't that a shame? Here go your fingerprints.
Les Damon
Not mine. Norma's.
Mike Waring
You can't prove that.
Les Damon
Looks like you've already done it for me. Are you going to tell me where I can find her?
Mike Waring
I don't know where she is. Now get out of here.
Les Damon
Okay, but when you see Norma, tell.
Mike Waring
Her I'm not going to see her.
Les Damon
Yes, I know. But when you do, tell her that if she wants me to help her, she'd better call me.
Norma Wallace
Hello, Norma.
Mike Waring
Listen, quick. Right after you left, Mike Waring was here.
Norma Wallace
He was? How did he know about you?
Mike Waring
Oh, I suppose he's not a detective for nothing.
Norma Wallace
Oh, Ted, I'm afraid my running away was a mistake.
Mike Waring
It was no use taking chances. But I've got to talk to you.
Norma Wallace
All right. Where shall I meet you?
Mike Waring
Well, you can't come here. And I've got to be careful I'm not followed. Waring may think I'll lead him to you.
Norma Wallace
What are we going to do?
Mike Waring
Go to Penn Station. You can keep yourself lost in the crowd. At 3:30 by the station clock, go upstairs on the 7th Avenue side. You know where the big columns are?
Norma Wallace
Yes.
Mike Waring
At exactly 3:30, walk out to the curb. I'll drive by and pick you up.
Norma Wallace
All right.
Mike Waring
I'll make sure I'm not being followed. But if anything goes wrong, you just wait two minutes. If I haven't come in that time, get away from there fast. Then call me from a phone booth.
Norma Wallace
All right, Ted, but I wonder if it wouldn't be better if I.
Mike Waring
It'll be better if you do. Just like I tell you. I'll see you at 3:30. All right, Norma.
Jerry Blake
Quick.
Norma Wallace
Yes, Ted.
Mike Waring
3:30 on the north.
Norma Wallace
I don't like this hide and seek, Ted. It's going to mean trouble.
Mike Waring
Will you leave things to me?
Norma Wallace
But how will I explain it?
Mike Waring
You won't have to. You and I know that Mrs. Barrow killed her husband. And the police are bound to find it out. Once they do, it won't matter what you've done.
Norma Wallace
Then why is it necessary for me to run away?
Mike Waring
I told you, they killed. They can't prove anything against you. But until they have a case against Mrs. Barrow, they may suspect you. They could lock you up and make things pretty unpleasant.
Norma Wallace
Well, this isn't exactly my idea of pleasant. Only there was some way to speed things up.
Mike Waring
Maybe there is. That's why I wanted to see you.
Norma Wallace
You think there's something we can do?
Ed Hurley
Yeah.
Mike Waring
But first you'll have to get rid of Waring.
Norma Wallace
But you wanted me to hire him.
Mike Waring
I know, but he's getting in the way. And for what I have in mind, uh. Oh.
Norma Wallace
What's the matter?
Ed Hurley
Police car.
Mike Waring
I think it's following us.
Norma Wallace
I thought you said no one.
Ed Hurley
I did.
Mike Waring
I was positive nobody followed me. Can't understand it.
Norma Wallace
Maybe they're just cruising this way.
Mike Waring
I'll turn this corner and see.
Norma Wallace
All right, if they are following, what do we do?
Mike Waring
Try to shake them.
Norma Wallace
Hate to get you involved.
Mike Waring
I'm glad I have a chance to help.
Norma Wallace
Here they come.
Mike Waring
And here I go.
Norma Wallace
I'm afraid this isn't such a good idea.
Mike Waring
What else can we do?
Norma Wallace
I don't know, but try not run a police.
Mike Waring
Hang on. Corner coming.
Norma Wallace
All right. If they catch us, it's going to mean trouble for you, too.
Mike Waring
I know.
Norma Wallace
They're gaining.
Les Damon
And look at that.
Mike Waring
Traffic's against us. We'll never get through. Well, this is it. Sorry you couldn't help it.
Ed Hurley
All right, buddy, what's the hurry?
Mike Waring
What?
Ed Hurley
Did you see that red light back there?
Jerry Blake
Red light?
Ed Hurley
Yeah, when I tried to call you on it. You start playing tags.
Mike Waring
You want me for going through a red light?
Ed Hurley
You're hitting 60 in city traffic. Your girlfriend thinks it's funny.
Mike Waring
Officer, she has aoi sense of humor.
Norma Wallace
Don't pay any attention to her.
Mike Waring
Here's my license.
Les Damon
Hello?
Norma Wallace
Hello, is that Mr. Waring?
Les Damon
Yes. This sounds like my disappearing client.
Norma Wallace
Ex client, Mr. Waring. That's why I'm calling.
Les Damon
You picked a great time to fire me.
Norma Wallace
I don't think I need you anymore.
Les Damon
If Sergeant Corbett catches up with you, you'll think differently.
Norma Wallace
Does he really think I killed Barry?
Les Damon
You lied, you ran out. What do you expect him to think?
Norma Wallace
But I hired you.
Les Damon
Yes, and now you're firing me. Your hands look about as clean as some of the Kefauver witnesses.
Norma Wallace
But it was Mrs. Barrow who killed Barry. You know that.
Les Damon
Corbett doesn't. He's satisfied with her alibi.
Norma Wallace
Oh, she has an alibi?
Les Damon
Yeah, she has. So you better come clean, angel.
Norma Wallace
I have. I didn't do it.
Les Damon
Well, then why this weird routine?
Norma Wallace
I have my reasons.
Les Damon
They better be good ones. You're on the spot, baby.
Norma Wallace
Yes, I'm afraid I am.
Les Damon
Well, I'm still willing to listen if you want to forget about firing me. Provided, of course, that you have something to say.
Norma Wallace
I have.
Les Damon
All right, go ahead.
Norma Wallace
Well, it's just that Ted and I thought.
Les Damon
Who's Ted?
Norma Wallace
A friend of mine. I called him when I discovered the body.
Les Damon
Oh, before you called me?
Norma Wallace
Before I did anything. I decided I had to have help. And luckily he was home.
Les Damon
Wonder if it was so lucky.
Norma Wallace
Why do you say that?
Les Damon
His help didn't turn out so good.
Norma Wallace
Well, it was his idea that I hire you.
Les Damon
Was it also his idea that you fire me?
Norma Wallace
Yes.
Les Damon
He seems to have a lot of Ideas?
Ed Hurley
Look, where are you?
Les Damon
I think we better get together at.
Norma Wallace
The burroughs hotel on 43rd, room 405.
Les Damon
Okay, sit tight. I'll be right over.
Norma Wallace
All right. Goodbye.
Mike Waring
Is that the way you fire him, Norma?
Norma Wallace
Ted, I didn't know you were still here.
Mike Waring
Looks like it's a good thing I am.
Norma Wallace
Yes, Ted, the only question is good for whom?
Ed Hurley
Well, I can answer Norma's question. Good for whom? They're good for everyone. I mean, salads are good for everyone. And they're mighty good eating too when you make them with Miracle Whip Miracle.
Irene Kent
Whip has a flavor so pleasing Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing Miracle Whip, only one of its kind. Miracle Whip best salad dressing you'll find.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip is the only one of its kind because it's a different type of salad dressing Made from a secret craft recipe. Miracle Whip combines the best qualities of boiled dressing and old fashioned mayonnaise. So it's truly distinctive and delicious with a flavor millions of folks call just exactly right. Try it, won't you? One taste will tell you why it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. Now back to the adventures of the falcon. 10 minutes have passed since Mike Waring talked himself off the unemployment line. Ted had objections, but he seems to have been overruled. Because when Norma opens the door for the Falcon, Ted is nowhere in sight.
Norma Wallace
Hello, Mr. Waring. Come in.
Les Damon
Thanks. What's the matter with you? You look frightened.
Norma Wallace
Frightened? No, just bewildered.
Les Damon
About what you said.
Norma Wallace
Mrs. Barrow has an alibi, according to Corbett. I don't understand it.
Les Damon
Why not?
Norma Wallace
I told you, Barry went to the door and I heard him talking to someone. Just before he was shot? Yeah, I said it was a woman's voice. I'm almost certain it was Mrs. Barrows.
Les Damon
Why didn't you say that before?
Norma Wallace
I didn't like to accuse her without being sure.
Les Damon
What made you change your mind?
Norma Wallace
I haven't. I just want you to check. Couldn't there be something wrong with her alibi?
Les Damon
Yes, there could be, but not as wrong as with your story.
Norma Wallace
What do you mean?
Les Damon
You're lying again.
Norma Wallace
I'm not.
Les Damon
You didn't hear Barrow talking to anybody.
Norma Wallace
What makes you say that?
Les Damon
When you spoke to me on the phone, you used the phrase when I found the body. If Barrow had been killed in front of you, you wouldn't have talked about finding the body. You wouldn't have had to find. It would have been right there.
Norma Wallace
I meant when I found he was dead.
Les Damon
That's not what you said.
Norma Wallace
You misunderstood me.
Les Damon
Yes, and apparently I still do. I suppose we go see Sergeant Corbett and get this straightened out.
Norma Wallace
No.
Les Damon
Look, you can't keep running.
Norma Wallace
I can try. And in case you have any idea of trying to stop me, this gun should change your mind.
Les Damon
It's changed. But not as often as you change yours. Goodbye, Normal. Well, angel, have you changed your mind again?
Norma Wallace
Let me in.
Ed Hurley
Sure.
Les Damon
Now, look, before we go any further, I'm taking the gun. Just in case you decide to make another switch.
Norma Wallace
Here it is. It's not loaded.
Les Damon
Now she tells me.
Norma Wallace
I'm sorry about what happened. I couldn't help myself.
Les Damon
Well, I can't help yourself either. Unless you start telling the truth for a change.
Norma Wallace
I will.
Les Damon
Okay. At least that'll be a novelty. Go ahead.
Norma Wallace
I didn't see the shooting. I didn't hear any voices, Mrs. Barrows, or anyone else's. I just said I did because Ted told me. It would sound better that way. Ted told me what to say. Told me to run away.
Les Damon
Look, did you have to take orders from him?
Norma Wallace
I thought he was trying to help me.
Les Damon
Some help.
Norma Wallace
I was frightened. I had to turn to someone. I trusted Ted. Then he told me to fire you. I tried, but you talked me out of it.
Les Damon
But somebody talked you out of that?
Norma Wallace
Yes. Ted overheard my conversation with you. He was furious. He made me say what I did to you. When you got up there, he was hiding in the next room.
Les Damon
And if you had disobeyed.
Norma Wallace
He had a gun and his was loaded.
Les Damon
Does he know you came here?
Norma Wallace
Of course not. If he finds out.
Les Damon
He won't find out. Where is he now?
Norma Wallace
He went home. Thinks I went home.
Les Damon
How come he trusted you?
Norma Wallace
He said if I didn't do exactly what he told me, he'd prove that I killed Barry. But I know he can't. So if you'll help me, I can.
Les Damon
All right. All right, I will. Now call him. Tell him you gotta talk to him. Ask him to come right over. It'll take him 20 minutes to get to your place. By that time we can be there too.
Norma Wallace
But what are we going to do?
Les Damon
Well, first I'll have to have all the facts. So for a change, let's have exactly what did happen today. From the beginning.
Norma Wallace
All right. I let myself into the apartment and there was Barry on the floor, blood still running out of that hole in his head. It was awful. Who's that?
Les Damon
I don't know.
Norma Wallace
What if it's Ted? What if he didn't go home? If he followed?
Les Damon
All right, all right, I'll handle it.
Norma Wallace
Can I get out the back.
Les Damon
Now, just sit tight. If it is Ted, now's the chance to wrap this up. And I can't do it without you.
Ed Hurley
Yeah, I'm coming.
Les Damon
You'll be all right. Just leave it to me.
Norma Wallace
If you say so.
Les Damon
I do. Oh, Sergeant Corbett, this is a surprise.
Mike Waring
Oh, I see. You didn't know where the girl was, did you, Waring? You couldn't help me find her? Oh, no.
Ed Hurley
That's right, Corbett.
Les Damon
Sure.
Mike Waring
Well, Ms. Wallace, has Waring finished coaching you on what to say?
Les Damon
I didn't have to, Corbett. She had lessons from an expert, huh? Yeah, she called him in as soon as she found the body. He told her what to say and do?
Norma Wallace
That's right.
Mike Waring
Who's this we're talking about?
Les Damon
Ted Donahue.
Mike Waring
And he told her to run out on me?
Les Damon
Yep.
Mike Waring
I'd like to talk to this Donahue.
Les Damon
Well, that can be arranged. But first I'd like to hear the medical examiner's report.
Mike Waring
Now, what's to hear? Bullet in the brain. Died instantly.32 caliber.
Les Damon
Okay, okay, that's enough.
Mike Waring
All right, Waring, do we see Donahue?
Les Damon
If you like.
Mike Waring
I like. But don't get the idea that because I'm willing to listen, you're steering me off your girlfriend here.
Norma Wallace
But, Sergeant.
Mike Waring
And as for you, Waring, I'm gonna prove you knew where she was.
Les Damon
Oh, think whatever you want about me, Corbett, but you can't think that Norma did the shooting.
Mike Waring
Oh, can I?
Les Damon
Of course not.
Mike Waring
Why not?
Les Damon
Because she did.
Norma Wallace
What's that?
Ed Hurley
Sure.
Les Damon
Norma, you killed Barry. So with Corbett's habit of always being wrong, he can't possibly think.
Ed Hurley
Coffee?
Les Damon
Danish, dad?
Ed Hurley
Please.
Les Damon
I missed dessert before.
Mike Waring
Well, Mike, we've got the motive. When it came to a showdown, Barrow decided to stick with his wife. So Norma plugged him.
Les Damon
Keep it up, Corbett.
Ed Hurley
You're doing fine.
Mike Waring
Wants to keep up. That's it?
Les Damon
Well, not entirely. How about the clue that gave her away?
Mike Waring
She must have said something to you.
Les Damon
Don't you want to know what it was?
Mike Waring
All right, Waring, if you gotta stretch your stuff, go ahead. How did you happen to stumble onto this one?
Les Damon
Stumble, he says.
Mike Waring
What do you want me to do, Beat my head on the floor in appreciation?
Les Damon
That's an idea.
Mike Waring
Well, if you want to tell me how bright you are, go ahead. I'm listening. But get it over with.
Les Damon
Well, Norma played along with Ted Donahue in order to have a fall guy in reserve. And he was crazy enough about her to try to keep her out of trouble. Anyway, when it turned out that Mrs. Barrow had an alibi that satisfied the police. Norma decided to make use of Ted. Only she went a little too far.
Mike Waring
How so?
Les Damon
Well, if she just left it at the things he actually did, she might have been all right. But she tried to tell me he pulled a gun on her and threatened her. He only would have done that if he were actually the killer.
Mike Waring
Well, that's what she was trying to prove.
Les Damon
Yes, but since he couldn't be the killer, it gave her away. Couldn't?
Mike Waring
Why not?
Les Damon
Well, you said Barrow was killed instantly. And Norma admits that when she found him, he was still bleeding. Bleeding stops a few minutes after a person dies.
Mike Waring
Well, so why couldn't she have found him in the first few minutes?
Les Damon
Because she told me that as soon as she found the body, she called Donahue at his home. Donahue lives at least 20 minutes away from Norma. If he was home, he just couldn't have been at Norma's.
Mike Waring
Oh. Huh. Well, Waring, nice try.
Les Damon
Try solved the case. Yeah, but you were trying to show.
Mike Waring
Me how bright you are. Can't say that I'm impressed. After all, you pulled quite a boner.
Les Damon
What?
Mike Waring
You pin the murder on the girl and she happens to be a dainty dish, but who wants to go dating at Sing Sing?
Les Damon
Well, you got a point there, Corbett, but you're overlooking one thing.
Mike Waring
What's that?
Les Damon
Mrs. Barrow. Now, she's going to be lonely a few months from now. She's going to want someone to cheer her up to Whiner Diner do the town. And speaking of dishes, Corbett, that's mine.
Ed Hurley
Did you know that you can make a rich, delicious chocolate flavored malted milk right in your own kitchen? Well, you can, and easily. With crafts. Wonderful chocolate flavored malted milk. Just make a tasty paste of some craft malted milk and a little milk in the bottom of a tall glass. Fill that glass with chilled milk, stir it again, and there you are. Your craft malted is delicious. And it's mighty nourishing, too, because it's full of all the food values in milk. Enjoy a craft malted often. Get a jar of Kraft Chocolate flavored malted milk from your grocery tomorrow. The Case of the Nervous Shakedown. The Case of the Nervous Shakedown. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learned that what some people try to get away with is is pure, unadulterated murder. So be sure to listen at this same time next week to another exciting Adventure of the Falcon, brought to you by the Kraft Foods Company. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Shubert, written tonight by Jerome Epstein and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Chuck Webster as Sergeant Corbett. This is Ed Hurley. He's speaking for the Kraft Foods Company. Laugh with Groucho. He's next on NBC.
Episode Summary: "Sweet Swindle and Broken Fingerprint" – Adventures of the Falcon
Introduction
In this captivating episode of 1001 Radio Crime Solvers, host Jon Hagadorn presents two enthralling detective tales featuring Les Damon as the iconic The Falcon. Set during the golden age of radio, these stories weave intricate plots of deception, betrayal, and murder in bustling New York City. Join The Falcon as he navigates through complex cases, uncovering hidden truths and delivering justice with his sharp intellect and unwavering determination.
Case 1: Sweet Swindle
Setting the Scene
The episode kicks off on a sunny Sunday afternoon in New York's west side. Joe Hardy (voiced by Mike Waring) approaches Irene Kent (voiced by Les Damon) with a dubious proposition. Hardy claims to have information about the missing daughter of Waller Blake, offering Irene a hefty reward. His tactic is to manipulate Irene into aiding his quest, using false evidence and psychological pressure.
Key Interactions and Developments
Hardy's Ultimatum: Hardy presents a red school bag with Irene's initials, attempting to coerce Irene into helping him find Blake's daughter. He emphasizes the high reward, painting a picture of desperation and threat.
Joe Hardy [09:00]: "She's living in a furnished room under the name of Irene Kent."
Introducing The Falcon: Les Damon (as The Falcon) is introduced as a private detective who gets involved when Mike Waring voices concerns about Hardy's legitimacy. Damon contacts Walter Blake (voiced by Mike Waring) to warn him against trusting Hardy, hinting at Hardy's questionable motives.
Les Damon [06:08]: "He'll clean you out like a Hoover vacuum."
Confrontation and Suspicion: Despite warnings, Blake and his associate Larry Nichols decide to meet Hardy. During this meeting, tensions rise as Damon suspects foul play, especially when Hardy fails to provide concrete evidence linking Irene to Blake.
Irene Kent [05:16]: "You're not going to do it."
Murder Unveiled: The plot thickens when the real Irene Kent is found murdered, leading Damon to delve deeper into Hardy's background. Evidence points to Jerry Blake (Walter's nephew) as the mastermind behind the swindle and the subsequent murders.
Les Damon [27:16]: "You killed your uncle and Irene Kent."
Climactic Conclusion
Through meticulous investigation, The Falcon uncovers that Jerry Blake orchestrated the entire scheme to inherit his uncle's wealth. The culmination of evidence, including mismatched fingerprints and alibis, leads to Jerry's exposure and downfall.
Case 2: Broken Fingerprint
A Dark Evening in New York
The second story unfolds on a Wednesday night at the apartment of Barry Barrow in the E60s. His wife, Ethel Barrow, introduces Norma Wallace to Barry, igniting a complex web of relationships and secrets. Tensions escalate as Barry is suddenly found dead, and suspicions fall on Norma and her boyfriend, Ted Donahue.
Investigative Threads
Initial Suspicion: Norma Wallace seeks help from The Falcon after Barry's mysterious death. Her hesitance and the presence of Ted Donahue raise immediate red flags for Damon.
Ethel Barrow [42:34]: "She wants you to believe that I killed Barry."
Interrogation and Deception: Damon conducts interviews with Norma and Ethel, uncovering inconsistencies in their stories. Norma's involvement with Ted and the fabricated alibi provided by Ethel point towards deeper conspiracies.
Les Damon [55:23]: "Well, Norma, you killed Barry. So with Corbett's habit of always being wrong, he can't possibly think."
The Twist: As events unfold, it's revealed that Ted Donahue orchestrated the scene to frame Norma. The broken fingerprints and manipulated evidence expose the intricate planning behind the murder, showcasing Damon's adeptness at peeling back layers of deceit.
Norma Wallace [53:09]: "When I found out he was married, I didn't want to have anything to do with him."
Resolving the Mystery
In a tense final confrontation, The Falcon pieces together that Ted Donahue was the true culprit, using Norma as a pawn in his scheme. The revelation is solidified through the discovery of the broken glass and matching fingerprints, leading to Ted's arrest and Norma's exoneration.
> **Les Damon [56:38]:** "Mrs. Barrow. Now, she's going to be lonely a few months from now."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
Joe Hardy [09:00]: "She's living in a furnished room under the name of Irene Kent."
Irene Kent [05:16]: "You're not going to do it."
Les Damon [06:08]: "He'll clean you out like a Hoover vacuum."
Les Damon [27:16]: "You killed your uncle and Irene Kent."
Ethel Barrow [42:34]: "She wants you to believe that I killed Barry."
Norma Wallace [53:09]: "When I found out he was married, I didn't want to have anything to do with him."
Les Damon [56:38]: "Mrs. Barrow. Now, she's going to be lonely a few months from now."
Insights and Themes
This episode delves into themes of identity deception, the manipulation of relationships for personal gain, and the intricate dance between truth and lies. The Falcon embodies the quintessential detective, using keen observation and deductive reasoning to unravel crimes that appear insurmountable. The narratives highlight the psychological tactics employed by criminals and the unwavering pursuit of justice by the detective.
Conclusion
"SWEET SWINDLE and BROKEN FINGERPRINT" exemplify the timeless allure of radio detective stories. With masterful storytelling, rich character development, and compelling dialogues, this episode offers listeners an immersive experience into the world of classic crime-solving. The Falcon's adventures not only entertain but also underscore the enduring importance of integrity and intellect in the face of cunning adversaries.
End of Summary