Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio)

Episode: Matthew Slade and Barry Craig
Release Date: February 20, 2025
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Case Closed!, listeners are treated to two enthralling crime stories from the golden age of radio. Hosted by RelicRadio.com, the episode delves into the mysterious adventures of Private Investigator Matthew Slade in "The Secret Gray Man" and Confidential Investigator Barry Craig in "The Schemers." Released on February 20, 2025, this episode promises a blend of classic suspense, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters. Below is a detailed summary capturing the essence of both stories, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for an immersive experience.

Part 1: Matthew Slade - "The Secret Gray Man"

Setting the Scene

The story opens in Matthew Slade's dimly lit apartment at midnight ([00:30]). Surrounded by the soft glow of a fireplace and the clink of brandy glasses, Slade enjoys the tranquility occasionally disrupted by his grandmother's visits with "a fresh case of root beer" ([01:15]). This quaint introduction sets the stage for the ensuing mystery when Slade receives a cryptic letter from Gray Durant.

The Mysterious Letter

Gray Durant, a figure from Slade's past involved in top-secret work in Korea, contacts him in code ([02:00]). Gray was part of a covert group known as G2, assigned to perilous missions where trust was paramount. The letter's coded nature indicates that Gray might be in grave danger, prompting Slade to act swiftly. "The letter was from Gray Durant, and it was in code" ([02:45]).

On the Run

Trusting his instincts, Slade burns the suspicious note and escapes his apartment, heading towards Morro Bay ([04:10]). Along the way, he encounters Herbert Edwards, a sharply dressed man whose presence raises Slade's suspicions. Edwards hints at Gray being in trouble, saying, "Someone else. A nice setup for a kill" ([06:25]).

Meeting Gray

Slade arrives at Gray's secluded residence, affectionately dubbed "the castle," overlooking the bay. The atmosphere is thick with tension as Slade and Gray plan to meet at the Glass House hotel under the guise of brunch ([09:50]). "Don't walk through the glass doors. That can be nasty," warns Slade, showcasing his cautious nature ([11:30]).

Unexpected Betrayal

During brunch, Slade spots Lisa Albers, a beautiful woman who appears out of place ([14:20]). The meeting takes a dark turn when Edwards detonates a bomb intended for Gray, resulting in chaos and injury ([17:40]). Slade realizes that Lisa's involvement is more sinister than anticipated: "She didn't intend to come back" ([19:55]).

The Underwater Investigation

Determined to uncover the truth, Slade, Gray, and Marcy embark on a scuba mission to the Moonstone yacht. The tranquility beneath the waves is shattered when they discover Lisa severely injured aboard the yacht ([23:10]). Gray's ulterior motives come to light as he reveals grievances rooted in their past agreements: "We were all expendable... if only one man got back alive" ([27:35]).

Confrontation and Conclusion

The climax unfolds in a tense standoff where Sanderson, another operative, confronts Slade, resulting in a fierce struggle ([32:50]). Marcy inadvertently aids Sanderson, leading to Lisa's tragic demise. Despite the betrayal, the episode concludes with Slade reflecting on the fragility of trust and the dangers lurking within covert operations: "The slender thread to luck... was not after all, the thread which led to death" ([38:20]).

Part 2: Barry Craig - "The Schemers"

Introduction to Barry Craig

Barry Craig, portrayed by William Gargan, introduces himself as a seasoned Confidential Investigator with a knack for uncovering the truth behind intricate schemes ([40:00]). His latest case revolves around the enigmatic Johnny Phoenix and a substantial missing sum of money.

The Johnny Phoenix Caper

Craig recounts the case of Johnny Phoenix, who allegedly stole $200,000 from his client, Gyp Moody. However, discrepancies in the reported amount surface, revealing that only $50,000 was officially documented ([42:15]). "There's a gap between 200,000 and 50,000," Craig notes, hinting at underhanded dealings beyond the surface ([43:40]).

Misidentification and Deception

Attempting to catch Phoenix, Craig boards a train where he encounters Rita Phoenix, Johnny's wife, who entangles him in a web of deceit. A confrontation ensues when Rita attempts to seize Craig, mistaking him for someone else ([50:30]). In a swift move, Craig subdues her, realizing the plot thickens: "You're going to lead me back to... Come on trains don't wait" ([56:55]).

Unraveling the Plot

Craig's investigation leads him to Fullerton, where he discovers that the purported empty lot—where Phoenix buried the money—has been developed into a house. This revelation points to a larger scheme orchestrated by Cy Canaday, an alias used by a police double agent to mislead Craig ([1:05:20]). "A professional stool pigeon," Craig deduces, exposing the layers of deception around him ([1:07:45]).

Climactic Showdown

In the final act, Craig confronts Cy Canaday, uncovering the truth behind the missing money and Phoenix's manipulations. The elaborate ruse involving the house's construction over the buried cash showcases the lengths to which criminals will go to conceal their tracks. Craig's perseverance and sharp instincts ultimately lead to the unraveling of the scheme: "You think fast, Craig. I have to, to keep alive" ([1:15:10]).

Resolution and Reflection

As the dust settles, Barry Craig reflects on the complexities of his profession and the ever-present challenges posed by cunning adversaries. The story emphasizes the themes of trust, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of justice: "You've been caught up in a masher mistaken identity routine" ([1:20:50]).

Notable Quotes

• Matthew Slade:

  • "The letter was from Gray Durant, and it was in code." ([02:45])
  • "Don't walk through the glass doors. That can be nasty." ([11:30])
  • "We were all expendable... if only one man got back alive." ([27:35])
  • "The slender thread to luck... was not after all, the thread which led to death." ([38:20])

• Barry Craig:

  • "There's a gap between 200,000 and 50,000." ([43:40])
  • "You're going to lead me back to... Come on trains don't wait." ([56:55])
  • "A professional stool pigeon." ([1:07:45])
  • "You've been caught up in a masher mistaken identity routine." ([1:20:50])

Conclusion

This episode of Case Closed! masterfully intertwines two distinct yet equally gripping narratives. Matthew Slade's journey through betrayal and covert operations offers a classic noir feel, while Barry Craig's intricate investigation into financial deceit showcases the cerebral challenges of a Confidential Investigator. Both stories, enriched with vivid dialogues and suspenseful twists, highlight the enduring allure of Old Time Radio Crime dramas. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this episode delivers an engaging homage to the golden age of radio storytelling.

Further Listening

Stay tuned for next week's episode, where Case Closed! will feature "The Man Who Wanted to Be Guilty," another thrilling adventure with Barry Craig. Don't miss out on more classic crime stories, available 24/7 on RelicRadio.com.

This summary was crafted based on the transcript provided and adheres to the structure and content guidelines to ensure a comprehensive and engaging overview for listeners.