Boston Blackie: Spy Ring 08/04/1944

Summary

Podcast Summary: Boston Blackie – “Spy Ring” (08/04/1944)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Boston Blackie: Spy Ring
Date Recapped: December 13, 2025
Original Air Date: August 4, 1944

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Episode Overview

This episode of Boston Blackie plunges listeners into a classic Golden Age radio mystery, blending quick wit, intrigue, and wartime suspense. Blackie is drawn into a case involving a mysterious young woman, a case of mistaken identity, murder, and a Nazi spy ring threatening Allied shipping. Listeners experience the tension between Blackie and Inspector Faraday, coded messages, and an action-packed rescue—all tied together with signature humor and banter.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Mistaken Identity and Disappearance

[00:49–03:52]

• Alice Manletter arrives in New York, meant to meet Boston Blackie, but leaves with a man she mistakenly believes is Blackie.
• The real Boston Blackie (Chester Morris) arrives at the hotel, learns Alice has left with someone, and realizes a case of mistaken identity has occurred.
• Blackie starts retracing Alice's steps, seeking clues from the hotel staff and taxi driver.

“[03:52] A: Listen, clerk, try to think. What did the man look like?… D: You’re rather good looking, about your height and build.”

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2. A Murder at the Hotel

[06:08–10:59]

• Blackie finally connects with Alice Manletter (or so he thinks), arranges to check on her later.
• Called to her hotel room—only to find her dead. Inspector Faraday is already at the scene, suspects Blackie of murder, especially after discovering Blackie’s gun is the murder weapon.
• Faraday orders a paraffin test to determine if Blackie recently fired a gun.

“[09:52] A: How are you, Inspector? Holy Mac. [09:55] C: Yeah, Blackie, she’s dead. [09:57] A: Dead? [09:58] C: As if you didn’t know.”

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3. The Mystery of the Code

[11:19–12:15, 14:03–15:07]

• Blackie discovers a coded note in the victim’s handbag with odd words and numbers connected to place names and numbers. He starts deciphering the code.
• He deduces that the first letters spell out “buzz”—leading to more speculation about the meaning.

“[14:09] A: Boston, five. Zealand. Zealand. That’s the first word. Now, you take the first letters of each word and you get buzz. Great.”

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4. Blackie’s Escape and the Case’s Twist

[15:27–17:14]

• With Faraday intent on arresting him, Blackie distracts a guard and cleverly escapes police custody by stealing an officer’s uniform.
• Contacts Arthur Manletter in San Francisco, discovers the murdered girl wasn’t actually Alice Manletter but an imposter (the real Alice is blonde and older than the victim).

“[18:47] A: She had the most beautiful blonde hair you ever saw. Oh, that’s wonderful, Arthur. Your niece wasn’t murdered.”

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5. Infiltrating the Spy Ring

[17:14–21:38]

• Blackie and his sidekick, Shorty, search for the real Alice by knocking on doors in the area where the imposter got out of a taxi, using a fake telegram delivery to draw out her captors.
• Blackie is taken prisoner by Nazi spies who reveal they kidnapped Alice due to a mix-up and plan to silence her forever.

“[21:04] D: Boston Blackie. We were hoping you would come. It took you a little longer than we thought.”

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6. The Coded Spy Messages

[22:51–24:09]

• While tied up with Alice, Blackie overhears the spies sending a coded message via radio: “Shoes and ceiling wax. Autumn. Galahad and Launcelot.”
• Blackie deduces the message: “Ships leave tonight”—a warning about an Allied convoy about to be targeted by U-boats.

“[24:08] E: Two nights. [24:09] A: That’s it. Ships leave tonight. That’s the message. We’ve got to get out and stop that convoy from sailing.”

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7. Rescue & The Case Solved

[24:47–26:28]

• Blackie and Alice use ropes to subdue their captors. Shorty arrives with Inspector Faraday, who is finally convinced of Blackie’s innocence. The authorities are alerted to the spy plot in time.

“[25:35] A: Well, hot or cold, you’ll hate yourself in the morning, Faraday, but I’m glad you’re here. How did you manage it?”

• Blackie reassures Alice and her uncle that she is now safe, and that he’ll take care of her.

“[26:28] A: Well, I’m going to tell him I’ve spent a lot of time looking for you, but from now on, I’m looking after you.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Blackie's Reputation:
  • “You’re rather good looking, about your height and build.” – Room Clerk, [03:57]
• Comedy in Danger:
  • “Faraday couldn’t find a skunk in a perfume shop.” – Blackie, [17:10]
• Classic Banter:
  • “When you do anything with your feet, Faraday, flat is the right word.” – Blackie, [25:49]
• On Daring Escapes:
  • “I can keep my head above water is to duck you.” – Blackie, to Faraday, [12:15]
• Decoding the Puzzle:
  • “That’s it. Ships leave tonight. That’s the message. We’ve got to get out and stop that convoy from sailing.” – Blackie, [24:09]
• Epilogue:
  • “Well, I’m going to tell him I’ve spent a lot of time looking for you, but from now on, I’m looking after you.” – Blackie to Alice, [26:28]

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Timeline of Key Segments

• 00:49 – Alice Manletter’s mistaken meeting and disappearance
• 03:52 – Blackie’s investigation at the hotel
• 09:55 – Discovery of the “murder”
• 11:19 – The coded message is found
• 15:27 – Blackie tricks his way out of custody
• 18:47 – Revelation: The real Alice isn’t dead
• 21:04 – Blackie captured by Nazi spies
• 22:51 – Code-breaking and spy message intercepted
• 25:49 – Rescue and confrontation
• 26:28 – Blackie’s promise and case closed

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Style and Tone

The episode is packed with fast-paced, witty dialogue and clever problem-solving, balancing suspense with humor. The chemistry between Blackie and Faraday is filled with good-natured ribbing, even as the stakes rise. There’s a signature blend of heroics and one-liners that defines the Boston Blackie radio adventures.

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For Listeners

Even if you haven't heard this episode, you'll enjoy its accessible plotting, pacy script, and the unique intersection of World War II espionage and whodunit investigation. It's a textbook example of mid-20th-century radio drama that's light on its feet even as lives hang in the balance. The episode also lends an interesting historical window into public concerns of the era—covert enemies, coded messages, and the home front’s vigilance.

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Note: This summary omits advertisements and focuses entirely on the program’s story content.

Transcript

[A]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows. Like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[B]

Lever brothers, makers of rinseau r I n s o soapy rich rinseau present boston blackie starring chest Mr. Morris.

[C]

Front boy.

[D]

Did you sign the register, please, sir? Right here. Yes, Ms. Manoletto. Is there some trouble with your room?

[E]

Oh, no, it's fine, thank you. I was just wondering, do you know a Mr. Boston Blackie when you see him?

[D]

No, I don't know a man. Sorry, Ms. Manletta.

[E]

Well, thanks just the same. I supposed to meet him here in the lobby, but I have no idea what he looks like. My uncle arranged the appointment before I left San Francisco.

[D]

There's a man standing over by the newsstand who looks as if he were waiting for someone.

[E]

Oh. Oh, yes. Oh, I'm sure that must be Mr. Blackie. Thank you so much. Hello there. I hope you'll forgive me. Wasn't I supposed to meet you here? You're you, aren't you?

[B]

Yes.

[E]

At least uncle should have had you wear a white carnation.

[B]

According to uncle, white carnations don't stay white long in Pittsburgh.

[E]

Uncle told me that you were very witty. But they do in San Francisco, you know.

[C]

Well, shall we go?

[E]

Where to? Oh, no, don't tell me. I'd rather be surprised.

[C]

All right, let's go.

[E]

Oh, clerk, I found the man I was looking for. Thank you for your trouble.

[D]

No trouble at all.

[C]

Hello?

[D]

Room Click speaking. Hello.

[A]

Would you do me a favor, please? I'm supposed to meet a young lady in your lobby and I've been delayed. Would you have a page, please? Her name is Alice Manletter.

[D]

Ms. Manletter?

[A]

Yes.

[D]

Why? She just left here a minute ago. She met someone she was expecting and she left with him.

[A]

That's impossible. Ms. Manletta doesn't know anyone in New York.

[D]

Well, she told me she had an appointment with a Mr. Boston Blackie and that's the man she left here with.

[A]

But that can't be possible.

[D]

And why not?

[A]

Because I'm Boston Blackie.

[B]

In a few moments we will meet Boston Blackie. But right now, a thought about the weather. I'll bet it sometimes doesn't seem fair to you ladies. Here it is. Summer, blistering hot days. Days when you ought to be taking it easy.

[A]

And what happens?

[B]

You've got a bigger wash than ever to worry about. More towels, more of the kids play clothes. More of Your own wash, dresses, more shirts of dads, more everything. Well, you couldn't pick a more ideal time than now to switch to soapy, rich Rinso. With Rinso, even the biggest, grimiest wash goes like a breeze. As little as 5 minutes per load with Rinso in your washer. And your clothes are sparkling Rinso white, clean as a whistle. And Rinso is safe for washable colors, too. Leaves them Rinso bright. After dozens of dozens of washings, you'll be mighty proud of your Rinso wash. And proud, too, that you bought the big green and yellow package that made it so easy to do. Better get Rinso before next wash day. And now, meet Boston Blackie, Radio's newest adventure star. Meet Boston Blackie. Enemy to those who make him an enemy. Friend to those who have no friend.

[A]

Listen, clerk, try to think. What did the man look like? I mean, the one Ms. Manlett had left with?

[D]

I don't know, Mr. Blackie, you're rather good looking, about your height and build.

[A]

But Ms. Manletta didn't know anybody in New York. Her uncle told me that when he asked me to meet her.

[D]

Well, I'm sorry I can't help you.

[A]

Well, thanks just the same. Oh, here's my card. If Ms. Manletta returns, have her call this number, will you?

[D]

Yes, I will.

[F]

Taxi, sir?

[A]

Oh, no, thanks. Look, Dorman, did you happen to notice a man and a girl leaving here about 10 minutes ago? A pretty girl and a man about my height?

[F]

Yes, come to think of it, I did call a taxi for a couple of that.

[A]

Answer that description. Well, do you remember which cab it was?

[F]

Yes, it was the one Mike o' Hara Drive. Oh, that's o' Hara just pulling up the end of the line now.

[A]

Well, thanks a lot. Here, buy your wife some flowers.

[F]

Oh, thank you very much. Dad.

[A]

O'. Hara.

[F]

Yes, sir?

[A]

You just drove a man and a young lady somewhere. I want to go where they went.

[F]

Oh, you want to follow someone.

[A]

You're a bright lad, o'. Hara.

[F]

I don't want to get into any trouble.

[A]

Maybe you better get another cake. Oh, you won't get into any trouble. You see, I'm Inspector Faraday of the Homicide Department.

[B]

Oh, Inspector Faraday.

[A]

That's right. The cold K. Step on it.

[B]

Oh, sure, Inspector.

[F]

I'll go as fast as I can. Ah, this is it. This is the place. I left them off right in front of this store.

[A]

Oh, thanks. Here, buy yourself a couple of cigars.

[F]

Oh, thank you, sir.

[B]

Gee, how Buy your Box?

[E]

No.

[A]

Well, how do you do? I. I'm looking for a young couple who came here a few minutes ago.

[E]

You're looking for a couple? I'm looking for a couple. I'll take a single yet. Nobody comes here. Only Pop and me. Even Papa ain't here now. They have nobody else. See for yourself.

[A]

Well, thanks. May I use your telephone, please?

[E]

Certainly. That'll be 10 cents. You wouldn't be interested in buying anything, would you, mister?

[C]

No.

[A]

No, thanks.

[E]

No? Well, nobody ever buys anything.

[A]

Hello, Ashley Hotel? I'd like to speak to the room clerk, please. Say, mom, have you got any chewing gum?

[E]

Chewing gum he asked for. Is he kidding?

[D]

Room clerk speaking.

[A]

This is Boston Blackie. Have you had any word from Miss Alice Manletter?

[D]

Oh, Mr. Blackie, Miss Manletter's been trying to reach you. She wants you to come down here to see her right away. She's in room 305.

[A]

Thank you very. I'll be right over.

[E]

Three, please. Third floor.

[A]

Oh, thank you. 301. 303. Oh, here we are. 305.

[E]

Come in.

[A]

Hello.

[E]

Hello. So you're Boston Blackie.

[A]

Mm. I'm glad to see you, Ms. Manletta. You know, your uncle asked me to look out for you, and then you disappear. Well, you didn't even give me a chance.

[E]

Oh, you mean this morning?

[A]

Yes.

[E]

No, I just met a friend, that's all. He followed me from San Francisco.

[A]

I don't blame him. I'd have followed you too. How was your trip?

[E]

Oh, wonderful. This is my first time in New York. You know, I. I practically lived in a dream all the way here.

[A]

Well, how do you like what you've seen of it?

[E]

Wonderful.

[A]

You know, I'd like to show you the real town.

[E]

Oh, well, I'd like to, only I've sort of an engagement tonight.

[A]

Oh, the same fella. You haven't waste much, much, much time before I came here, have you?

[E]

Only the 18 years since I. Before I came here. Isn't that enough?

[A]

Well, it's enough for me to be running along, Alice. Oh, here's my phone number. And if you want anything, you just call. How about lunch tomorrow, huh?

[E]

Oh, I'd love it. Thanks, Mr. Blackie, for everything.

[A]

Oh, everything is nothing. Good night, Alice.

[F]

25, boss. Nice shooting.

[A]

Oh, Shorty, she's a beautiful girl.

[F]

Look, why don't you forget D for a minute?

[A]

Give me a good reason.

[D]

15.

[F]

Just like I'm telling you, boss, your hand ain't steady. You need some more practice.

[A]

Well, this Maxim Silencer doesn't fit this gun too well.

[F]

Oh, how come the new gun, Blackie? Where's your old one?

[A]

Well, well, you see, Shorty, I.

[F]

You what?

[A]

Well, I. I hate to admit it, but I guess I was robbed.

[F]

Boston Blackie.

[E]

Rob?

[A]

Yeah.

[F]

Hey, boss, you ain't any trouble.

[A]

I don't know.

[E]

Gee.

[F]

Bullseye, boss.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah, I guess this new gun will do until I get my old one back. There's nothing like a workout with a target to keep your aim in shape, Shorty.

[F]

You know, I got a funny idea about that, boss. I don't care if my aim ain't so good as long as the other guys ain't either.

[A]

I'll get it, Shorty.

[F]

All right.

[A]

Hello, Blackie. Well, well, well. Inspector Faraday, my favorite cop.

[C]

How'd you guess?

[A]

Oh, how could I miss those low, dulcet tones, Inspector?

[C]

I want you down here in 10 minutes, Blackie, or I'll send for you.

[A]

That's fine, but where's down here?

[C]

The Ashley Hotel, room 305.

[A]

You won't have to send for me, Inspector. I'll be right down.

[F]

Say, boss, Faraday hasn't got you jumping.

[A]

Through a rope, has he? Room 305, Ashley Hotel. Shorty. That's Alice Manletter's room.

[E]

Third floor. Please watch your step getting out.

[A]

Thank you.

[D]

Come on.

[A]

How are you, Inspector? Holy Mac.

[C]

Yeah, Blackie, she's dead.

[A]

Dead?

[C]

As if you didn't know.

[A]

Wait a minute. How did you know about this?

[C]

Parody o' Hara? The taxi driver got suspicious, so reported to headquarters. Oh, from his description, I knew it was you. Then I got suspicious. So you're going around impersonating me now, eh, Blackie?

[A]

Well, you should be flattered.

[C]

Why did you kill her?

[A]

Wait a minute, Faraday.

[C]

Okay, boys, cover him.

[A]

Now, don't be a dope. I promised to look after this girl. She was all right when I left her a little while ago.

[C]

Yeah, maybe. After we discovered the body, the boys and I waited for you to make an appearance. We knew you'd be back.

[A]

Now, Faraday, listen. This girl was Arthur Manletta's niece. And I'll take care of whoever was responsible for her murder. No, no.

[C]

I'll do that, Blackie. You killed her. Now, that's your gun in her hand.

[A]

My gun? But I don't see how that.

[C]

We checked the serial numbers, Blackie.

[A]

I don't care what you checked. You can't take me in for this. I didn't kill her, I tell you.

[C]

Okay, maybe. Maybe the serial number on this gun is wrong. You Know what a paraffin test is, Blackie?

[A]

Oh, sure, I know.

[C]

All right. Well, we'll get down to headquarters and cover your hand with paraffin.

[A]

Fine.

[C]

Then we'll be able to tell whether you fired a gun in the last couple of hours.

[A]

Inspector, will you listen?

[E]

Yeah.

[A]

This girl came to New York this morning. She wasn't supposed to know anybody in town. And then she told me she'd met a friend.

[C]

Well, what are you trying to prove?

[A]

I'm trying to prove that somebody killed Alice Manletter. And I've got to be free to find out who did it.

[C]

Well, you won't be. I'll see to that personally. And now, wait a minute. Now, what are you doing in that girl's handbag?

[A]

Don't get scared, Inspector, please. What are you doing? You've got four cops with guns on me. Yeah. This isn't a trick. I might find something here that will help me track down the murderer.

[C]

We've searched this whole place down, Blackie. There's nothing here.

[D]

Hold up.

[C]

Wait a minute. What are you taking out of that bag?

[A]

I don't know yet. It's just a piece of paper.

[C]

Well, I'll take it. What's this? Boston, five. Zealand. Zealand. Louisiana.

[A]

Three.

[C]

Saskatchewan. Tennessee, two. Nevada.

[A]

Yeah, Nevada.

[C]

Go ahead. What are you doing?

[A]

I'm just writing down what you've said.

[C]

Well, this doesn't make sense. Missouri, 1 3. Denver, 4. France. France.

[A]

When you see Faraday, that's a code.

[C]

Well, you're gonna have plenty of time to work it out, Blackie. Come on, let's get going. I'm going to give you a hand. A paraffin test to find out whether you fired a gun recently. And if you have, take it from me, pal, you'll have to do some talking to keep your head above water.

[A]

Well, I'm afraid, Inspector, the only way I can keep my head above water is to duck you.

[B]

Boston. Blackie, apparently, is in a spot. And speaking of spots, so was a friend of mine the other day. You see, a lady I know of looked out of her window one morning and it was such a lovely day, she felt like singing. And all of a sudden she remembered it was wash day.

[E]

Oh, shucks.

[B]

So she got ready to do her wash and found she was out of soap. Well, time was wasting. So she borrowed some from her next door neighbor. A soap she'd heard a lot about, but never tried before. As you guessed it, it was soapy, richer and so. And when she saw what mountains of suds Rinso made.

[E]

Well, well, well, well. What do you know?

[B]

And how quickly those Rinso suds soaked her clothes. Dazzling white. And how she only had to give the very dirty places a few quick finger rubs because Rinso gets out more dirt. She started singing all over again like this.

[E]

Rinse all white. Rinse all white. Happy little wash day song. Rinse oh white. Rinse oh white. You're to sing it all day long. Your fine feathered friend has a message you send. So listen, you can't go wrong. Rinse a white, rinse away. Happy little wash day song.

[B]

Sing your way through your next wash day with Rinso. Boston Blackie is in Inspector Faraday's office awaiting the police laboratory report that will show whether he has fired a gun within the past few hours so that Faraday can build a complete case against him for the murder of the girl in the Ashley Hotel.

[C]

How does it feel, Blackie, to be sitting there just waiting for a report that could send you to the chair? You nervous?

[A]

Boston, five. Zealand. Zealand. That's the first word. Now, you take the first letters of each word and you get buzz. Great.

[C]

How do you do it, Blackie?

[A]

You get bzz. That's right.

[F]

Yeah.

[C]

Now we know everything. Who killed the girl, what her mother's maiden name was and what town she was born in.

[A]

That's exactly what I'm trying to find out. After the first letter, there's the number five, See? That could be the fifth vowel, you know. A, E, I, O, U. That's right.

[C]

Or do you?

[A]

Yes. Then the word would spell B, U, Z. Z. Marvelous, Buzz. Inspector, this is a clue to the murder. Now, using that system of spelling out the first letters of each word, the note reads buzz. Listen. Made off.

[C]

Yeah. What does that mean?

[A]

I wish I knew.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

30.

[A]

Mm.

[C]

Mm.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Thanks.

[C]

Now, that was it, Blackie. The test showed you fired a gun all right. And the gun we found next to the girl's body was yours.

[A]

Now, Inspector, I lost my gun, and it's true I fired another, but I was just practicing.

[C]

Sure, sure. An alive target. Oh, you don't expect me to believe that, do you, Blackie?

[A]

Well, frankly, no.

[C]

You killed her, and then you put her gun, your gun, in her hand after wiping off your fingerprints, of course. Oh, that's an old trick, Blackie.

[B]

An old one.

[A]

I'm surprised at you.

[C]

Hey, Matthews.

[F]

Inspector.

[C]

Take Blackie down to the cell floor and lock him up. We'll book him later.

[F]

Right, chief. Come on, Blackie.

[A]

Okay. Okay. Well, you look very nice today, Matthews. New uniform. Who's your tailor? You won't be able to go to.

[F]

Him for a long time, you know.

[A]

Good old Matthews, snappy clothes and patted a match. Say, Inspector, may I wash my hands? Well, they're covered with ink from that fingerprint pad. Is it okay?

[C]

Oh, sure, sure. But keep an eye on him, Matthews. I'll beat it, both of you. I'm thinking.

[A]

Thinking, huh? I'd love to watch. Come on, Matthews, lock me up. So long. Inspector Faraday said I could wash my hands. Matthews, remember?

[F]

Go ahead, but no tricks.

[A]

Here's the washroom. But remember, I'll be right in back.

[F]

Here with my gun in my hand.

[A]

Oh, goody.

[F]

I let you in on a little secret, Blackie.

[A]

What's that?

[F]

The inspector brought in a half a dozen extra cops from another precinct just to make sure you didn't break out of here.

[A]

No, only half a dozen. Well, I'm flattered. By the way, Matthews, did you take a shower this morning?

[F]

No, last night.

[A]

Well, you need another one now.

[F]

Hey, quit splashing water all over me.

[E]

I can't see. Hey, give me my gun.

[A]

Not a chance. I'm going to gag you, Matthews, and lock you in here. Come on, turn around there. Now, try and yell. And I want to borrow your uniform. If there are strange cops here, they'll think I'm one of them. You see, I'm leaving. In your uniform. Come on, Matthews. Come on. Take it off.

[F]

Blackie. If Faraday ever finds this waterfront hideout of ours, you know we're sunk.

[A]

Oh, Faraday couldn't find a skunk in a perfume shop. Would you stop worrying?

[F]

Okay, okay. What do we do next, boss?

[A]

Well, nothing until I get that long distance call through to Arthur Manletter. The operator's trying to reach him in San Francisco now.

[F]

So after we reach him.

[D]

So?

[A]

Well, I won't know Shorty till I talk to him. You see, the only thing I've been able to do since I walked out of headquarters an hour ago was to break the code we found in that girl's bag. It read Buzz. Listen. Made off.

[F]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, you told me that before.

[A]

Yes, yes, I know, but those words don't make sense. However, suppose we try an association.

[F]

You mean we're going to join a club?

[A]

Oh, cut it out, Shorty, please. Now, for instance, what does the word buzz make you think of?

[D]

That's right.

[A]

Now, let's say the first word is B. Yeah. Now, the second word in the code message is listen. What does that make you think of Listen?

[F]

I don't know. Hey, wait a minute, boss. Don't Tell me. Don't tell me now. I'll get rid of it.

[A]

Listen, Listen. The word is here. Oh, so the message starts be here. Then the last two words are maid and off. Oh, by the way, Shorty, what's the maid's day off?

[F]

Thursday, if anybody still has got one.

[A]

Yeah, Thursday's right. So the message reads, be here Thursday.

[F]

Oh, that's it. Yesterday was Thursday, the day the gal came to town.

[A]

Sure, that's the code, all right. Only what?

[B]

Good.

[A]

There's my call now. All right. Hello, Blackie. This is Manletter in San Francisco. Oh, hello, Arthur. Blackie, what's happened? I just heard the radio. It said that Alice has been murdered. The police were searching for you. It's not true, is it, Black? Yes. Yes, I'm afraid it's true, Arthur. But you know I didn't do it. Of course you didn't. I don't know how it happened, but I'm going to find out. Blackie, look, I feel terrible. This is her 20th birthday. The trip was a present from me. 20th birthday? Wait a minute, Arthur.

[D]

Is.

[A]

Is she a brunette?

[B]

Oh, no.

[A]

She had the most beautiful blonde hair you ever saw. Oh, that's wonderful, Arthur. Your niece wasn't murdered. It wasn't Alice. Now, take my word for it. The radio. Never mind the radio. Your niece wasn't murdered. And I'm going to find her, Arthur. You'll hear from me. Thanks, Blackie.

[B]

Thanks.

[A]

Call me as soon as you know anything, will you? I will. Goodbye.

[F]

Now, why don't you tell him that for Blackie?

[A]

Because it's true, Shorty. You see, I never saw the real Alice Manletter. I took it for granted she was the girl in the hotel room. Oh, but that girl said she was 18. And Manletta's niece is 20. And the color of her hair settles it.

[F]

Okay, but what happens now?

[A]

Well, the real Alice Manletter left the hotel this morning with a man. The cab driver gave me the address, but she wasn't there. Of course, they evidently got off there, but must have walked down the street to another house.

[F]

Well, what do we do first?

[A]

Well, let's see. First we've got to get a couple of messenger uniforms. Yeah. Then you'll take one side of the street and I'll take the other. And we'll ring every doorbell and say we have a wire for Alice Manlett.

[F]

What good will that do?

[A]

Whoever is holding Alice will know it's a trick and will try to grab us. That's what. I'll be waiting. Telegram For Alice Manletta.

[C]

Ain't nobody here but that name.

[A]

Are you sure?

[C]

Sure, I'm sure. There ain't nobody in this block for that name either. I don't know. I've lived here for 40 years.

[F]

Gee, this reminds me of Alan's Alley. Should I try the next block?

[A]

We'll try it together. But I got two more houses to go. Wait for me, okay? I've got to find that girl, Shorty.

[F]

Okay, boss. If it's a girl, you'll find her.

[B]

What do you want?

[A]

Telegram for Alice Manletta.

[C]

Did you come in?

[A]

Well, is. Is Ms. Manletta here?

[D]

She.

[A]

She's got a sign for this person. A nice place you have here. I. I noticed a sign outside saying this was a doctor's.

[C]

In here, please.

[F]

Yeah. Okay.

[D]

Thanks.

[A]

Hey, what's this?

[D]

See if he is armed. Adult.

[C]

Yeah, I'll see. Keep your gun on him, Joe. Here's his gun. Here, Doctor. Here, in this card case.

[D]

Boston Blackie. We were hoping you would come. It took you a little longer than we thought.

[A]

Oh, you knew I'd be here, huh?

[D]

Girl said she was supposed to meet you in the hotel lobby. And Otto here made a mistake and thought she was one of us.

[A]

I see. So that's what happened.

[D]

Ada was supposed to meet one girl, he met another. He thought she was someone else. And she thought he was someone else. Simple blunder.

[A]

You mean the super race has made a simple blunder?

[D]

But everything has been taken care of. This girl knows no one else in the city. And very soon she will know nothing at all.

[A]

Oh, I see. And that goes for me too, I suppose. Yeah, well. Ouch. You take it easy with my hands back there, boy.

[D]

I am. Taitado.

[A]

Easy.

[D]

Good, good. We have only a few moments.

[A]

Yeah, that's right. You just listen to the news, Cass. You better work fast, boys. You have only a few moments. Warsaw, Paris, Berlin.

[D]

American Kid.

[A]

Take him in the other room.

[D]

Better carry him.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Help me, Joe.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

I opened the door for you. Just throw him in the lands on his neck.

[F]

It's too bad.

[C]

Ready, Joe?

[E]

Who is that?

[A]

Well, I. I think it's me.

[D]

Boston Blackie.

[F]

Oh, you're.

[A]

You're Alice Manletter.

[D]

Of course.

[E]

Boston Blackie. I'm so glad you're here.

[A]

Thanks.

[E]

So much has happened to me.

[A]

Yes, I think I know most of it.

[E]

You think we'll get out of here?

[A]

Well, we're certainly going to try. Let's do something about these ropes. You're tied up too, aren't you?

[E]

Yes.

[A]

Well, they Weren't nice enough to leave some lights on so I could see what it was doing. Well, there's the first one off. Now for my legs. See, I just thought of something. That girl accomplice must have lifted my gun when I was up there. Figuring that if I found out she was a spy, she could take care of me. Well, the legs are free now. I'll untie you.

[E]

Thank you. What's that?

[A]

They're going to send a message. We'll be able to hear what they say. The microphone's right up against the wall. Your hands are free. Work on your ankles and I'll listen. All right.

[D]

Hand over.

[A]

42S h o e s shoes. One ne a n d and shoes.

[D]

And two. One Louisiana. Three Nevada. Georgia, Wisconsin. One them. Dipping.

[A]

Ceiling wax. Shoes and ceiling wax.

[D]

15M, Nevada.

[A]

A u t U M N Autumn. Shoes and ceiling wax. Autumn. That's the message so far.

[D]

Chicago. 2 Louisiana. 4 Tennessee.

[A]

That spells Galahad and Launcelot.

[E]

They stopped sending.

[D]

Yeah?

[E]

What did they say? Do you know?

[A]

Now, keep working on those ropes, Alice. Here's the message. Shoes and ceiling wax. That's from Alice in Wonderland. The word missing is ships. Well, that could be the first word in the message.

[E]

That's the way it works.

[A]

Sure. Now, let's see. The next. Next thing was. Autumn. Autumn. Autumn, autumn. What's that make you think of, Alice?

[E]

I don't know. Autumn leaves, perhaps.

[A]

That's it, then. They said Galahad and Launcelot. They were two knights at the Round Table.

[E]

Two nights.

[A]

That's it. Ships leave tonight. That's the message. We've got to get out and stop that convoy from sailing. There'll be a U boat pack waiting. Waiting for it? Sure.

[E]

I've worked the knot loose, I think.

[A]

Good. Now give me your ropes. I'm going to need them.

[E]

What are you going to do?

[A]

Well, they'll be in for us in a minute. Is. Is there a chair in the room?

[E]

There's one next to me I'm leaning against.

[A]

Good. I'll put it alongside the door and stand on it. When the Nazis come in, you'll be in back of the door and slam it shut behind them.

[E]

But they'll see you.

[A]

Oh, no, no, no. Not a chance. The room is too dark. I'll drop a noose over them, but quick.

[E]

I think I hear something.

[A]

Okay. I'll carry this chair over and you stay. Stand behind the door.

[E]

Already, Blackie.

[A]

Yeah, me too.

[C]

We'll do it, Doctor, just like you said. Come in with me, Joe.

[A]

Now, Alice, you Got your gun at? I can't get it out. My arms are pinned down. Here's a present, Nutsy. Don't be jealous, pal. Here's one for you, too. Oh, you can take it.

[B]

I kid. Okay.

[A]

Well, I guess that does it. Alice, what is going on in there? Watch this. Alice, come in here.

[F]

Doctor, quick.

[A]

This is Alice. Alice, get on that telephone the other room, quick. Tell the FBI what you know. Then call Inspector Faraday while I keep an eye on these Nazis. Now, when you get him, hold it back.

[C]

You hold it. Don't move. I've got you cold this time.

[A]

Well, hot or cold, you'll hate yourself in the morning, Faraday, but I'm glad you're here. How did you manage it?

[F]

I managed it, boss. I got worried and I couldn't bust in here alone. So I called your old friend Faraday.

[C]

Yeah, and I landed up here with both feet in 10 minutes flat.

[A]

When you do anything with your feet, Faraday, flat is the right word. Thanks, Alice, for clearing me with Faraday.

[E]

Oh, Blackie, you're wonderful. You saved my life and broke up a spy ring and it doesn't bother you a bit? Don't you feel good about it?

[A]

Oh, I should say I do. So good I'm going to celebrate alone. Oh, no, no. You're coming with me, Alice. But first we're going to call your Uncle Arthur.

[E]

What are you going to say?

[A]

Well, I'm going to tell him I've spent a lot of time looking for you, but from now on, I'm looking after you.

[B]

We'll be back in just a moment with an interesting preview of next week's program. Now, you know those rich Rinso suds I've been telling you are such a help on wash day. Well, they're just as big a help come dishwashing time. Yes, ma'. Am. Milder than ever. Inso is. Easy on your hands, too. Doesn't get them rough and red. So, for dishwashing and for all the soap and water jobs around the house, better get Rinso to help you out.

[C]

Now, Matthews, you say this is a complete record of the people who came into Gordon's store yesterday?

[A]

That's right, Inspector.

[C]

Mrs. Van Dyke Smyth, George Ellis. Lady Mary Andrews. Say, quite an exclusive list of customers for a small shop.

[A]

Yeah, ain't it?

[C]

Let's see now, this name here. Was he a customer?

[F]

Yeah, Inspector Gordon says he was in about noon.

[A]

But that could have been a coincidence.

[C]

Matthews, when a string of pearls is missing from a certain store and a certain party was in that certain store and the certain party's name was Boston Blackie. That's no coincidence.

[B]

Friends, of course you know the tremendous part our merchant marine is playing in the war. But did you know that the merchant marine is being expanded to meet increasing supply problems on every front? To meet the universal demand for a strong post war merchant marine. Yes, six ships a day instead of five will soon be coming off the ways of our shipyards. And every one of them must be manned by 40 to 50 men. So if you have had previous sea experience or if you want to get into a well paying job where everything you do will help to win the war and to build your own personal future, then join the United States Merchant Marine. Apply at once by wiring collect to United States Merchant Marine, Washington, D.C. Warm weather's here and that means greater danger from perspiration. Protect yourself. Use Lifebuoy in your daily bath. You know of seven leading brands, Lifebuoy gives you the most soap for your money and its rich, purifying Lifebuoy lather agrees with your skin. And don't forget, Lifebuoy's the only soap especially made to stop. Be sure to listen at this same time next week for another exciting adventure with Boston Blackie. You can see Chester Morris as Boston Blackie on the screen at your favorite movie theater. Boston Blackie's latest Columbia picture is One Mysterious Night, soon to be released. Richard Lane appears as Inspector Faraday. Music by Charles Cornell. This is Harlow Wilcox saying good night for Boston Blackie. Brought to you by the makers of Rinseau, the soap that gets clothes.

[A]

This is the National Broadcasting Company.