Boston Blackie: Star of the Nile 07/14/1944

Summary

Podcast Summary:

Title: Boston Blackie: Star of the Nile
Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Original Broadcast Date: July 14, 1944
Summary Creation Date: November 22, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode of Boston Blackie presents a classic detective caper set in the glamorous world of high-stakes jewel transport. The famously clever Boston Blackie is on a train with George Stevens, a vice president of a jeweler, who is personally transporting the priceless "Star of the Nile" emerald. When the gem mysteriously disappears, all fingers—especially those of notorious Inspector Faraday—point to Blackie. As the story twists through witty exchanges, a foiled heist, and double-crosses, Blackie races to prove his innocence and unmask the real culprit.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Developments

1. Setting the Stage: The Train Ride and Character Introductions

• [01:17] Inspector Faraday and Matthews discuss the upcoming exhibition of the "Star of the Nile" emerald and Blackie's possible involvement in trouble.
  • Faraday jokes about Blackie’s irresistible attraction to jewels and beautiful women, setting up suspicion and a light-hearted rivalry.
• [03:36] On the train, George Stevens is described as carrying the emerald while discussing the international monetary system.
• [04:25] Boston Blackie (to Helen Carew): "You know, I get kind of mixed up when I start counting over 800."
  Light banter establishes Blackie’s wit.
• Helen Carew, a charming stranger (later revealed to be an undercover contact for Faraday), enters the scene.

2. The Disappearance of the Emerald

• [05:16] Stevens discovers the emerald missing during dinner.
  • “Young man, you have no idea how important. That pouch was worth $200,000.” — George Stevens
• [06:09] Faraday quickly singles out Blackie as the main suspect, escalating the tension and beginning the investigation.

3. Investigation and the First Twist

• [07:12] Faraday accuses Blackie, while Stevens admits not knowing Blackie or Helen—a classic setup for mistaken suspicion.
• Comic Reprieve:
  • [09:04] Blackie points out Stevens’ absent-mindedness, noting he was wearing a sports jacket (no vest) at dinner.
  • [09:41] “You weren’t wearing a vest, Mr. Stevens.” — Boston Blackie
  • Stevens finds the stone in his suitcase vest. The crisis seems averted (for now).

4. Conspiracy and the Real Heist Plot

• [11:45] Stevens meets with crook Louie Louie, hiring him to crack the safe at Godet’s and steal the emerald for real.
• [13:05] Blackie (tipped off by Shorty) learns of the planned midnight robbery at the jeweler's vault.

5. The Godet's Vault Showdown

• [16:59] Safecrackers Louie and Fingers struggle with the vault; Blackie intervenes but is held at gunpoint and forced to try opening it.
• [18:21] Police and Faraday arrive, rounding up the thieves, but Blackie escapes. The vault appears secured for now.

6. The Second Disappearance

• [20:54] The next morning, Stevens claims to have checked the vault personally, only to find the "Star of the Nile" is now genuinely missing (having been previously present).
• [21:56] Faraday is convinced Blackie finally did it and arrests him, as everyone scrambles to locate the stone.

7. Showdown and Unmasking the Culprit

• [24:13] At the hotel, Blackie confronts Stevens and Helen. Stevens brandishes a gun, and it's revealed:
  • Stevens orchestrated the theft to cover up embezzlement.
  • Helen is exposed as a police confidante.
  • [25:05] “Well, there’s an ugly word for it. Embezzlement." — George Stevens
• [25:22] Faraday and Matthews burst in, subduing Stevens before he can harm Blackie or Helen.

8. Resolution and Banter

• [26:21] Blackie teases Helen for tipping off Faraday but admits he knew all along from overhearing her phone call.
• [26:51] “Oh, honey, with you, anything goes by hook or by crook.” — Boston Blackie

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (with Timestamps)

• Inspector Faraday’s penchant for suspecting Blackie:
  • [01:48] "If I know my Boston Blackie — and to my sorrow, I do — he won’t be able to resist a little gadget worth a cool 200 grand."
• Light banter between Blackie and Helen:
  • [04:41]
    • Helen: "I've heard that name somewhere. Are you a baseball player?"
    • Blackie: "No. Why? Do you like baseball?"
    • Helen: "No, not particularly."
    • Blackie: "Well, why did you bring up the subject?"
• Blackie’s keen deduction:
  • [09:41] “...you weren't wearing a vest, Mr. Stevens.”
• The reveal of Helen’s undercover role:
  • [26:33] Blackie: "…as I was leaving, I heard you ask the operator for Madison 72772."
  • Helen: "So you knew I was working for the inspector?"
• Closing zinger:
  • [26:51] “Oh, honey, with you, anything goes by hook or by crook.” — Boston Blackie

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Important Segment Timestamps

• [01:17–02:22] — Faraday and Matthews set the stage for suspicion about Blackie.
• [05:16–05:35] — Discovery of the missing emerald on the train.
• [09:41–09:49] — Blackie’s deduction about the missing vest/emerald.
• [11:45–12:23] — Stevens’ criminal plan with Louie Louie revealed.
• [16:59–18:21] — Standoff at the vault.
• [20:54–21:05] — Discovery that the emerald is missing again.
• [24:13–25:29] — Hotel confrontation and Stevens exposed as the thief.
• [26:33–26:51] — Blackie reveals he knew Helen’s undercover status.

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Episode Tone and Style

The episode is rich in sharp, playful banter, particularly between Blackie and Faraday, and between Blackie and Helen. The atmosphere is brisk, suspenseful, and laced with comedic twists—all hallmarks of classic radio detective storytelling.

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For Listeners Who Missed the Episode

This fast-paced Boston Blackie adventure starts as a jewel caper aboard a train but soon spins into a classic case of misdirection, double-crossing, and clever deduction. Expect snappy dialogue, a series of red herrings, and a satisfying comeuppance for the true villain. The repartee between Blackie, Faraday, and Helen provides both comic relief and rich character dynamics, capturing the essence of old time radio detective adventures.

Transcript

[Announcer]

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[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Rinso r I n s o so soapy rich rinso presents boston blackies starring chester morris.

[Inspector Faraday]

What are you reading, Chief? Little Abner. No, listen to this. Matthews special feature of the great gems exhibit at the famous Godet Jewelers will be the incomparable Star of the Nile, Emeril, one of the most precious gems in the world. So precious that George Stevens, vice president of Godey's, is personally bringing the star to Chicago. From Chicago to New York.

[Matthews]

I don't get the joke, Chief.

[Inspector Faraday]

Sure you don't, because you don't know that Boston Blackie is on the same train with George Stevens.

[Matthews]

But, Chief, I don't get it.

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, if I know my Boston Blackie, and to my great sorrow I do, he won't be able to resist a little gadget worth A cool 200 grand.

[Matthews]

I still don't see what's funny. Besides, Blackie hasn't gone after sparklers in a long time.

[Inspector Faraday]

I know that. But I also know one thing that sparkles that's right up Blackie's alley.

[Matthews]

Yeah, what's that?

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Dames. Sure, Chief.

[Boston Blackie]

At the Star of the Nihilator dame.

[Inspector Faraday]

Yeah, but Helen Crew is Helen Crew. Yeah, something's bound to happen on a train when it's carrying those three George Stevens, Helen Carew and Boston Black.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Well, nobody has to lead Blackie to adventure because somehow adventure always seems to seek him out. In just a moment, we'll hear more about Blackie and the Star of the Nile. You know, you can lead a soap to water, but you can't always make it give thick, rich suds. Not if it's hard water and not if you're using one of those lazy bar or skimpy suds package soaps. No, ma'. Am. That's when you want Rinso soapy Rich Rinso on the job. You see, Rinso bubbles up into mountains of Suds practically at the touch of water. Suds that go right to town on your clothes. Suds that get out more dirt to give you that Rinso White Rinso Bright wash. And no hard scrubbing or boiling to ruin your wash day disposition. A short soaking in Rinso suds, a few quick finger rubs on extra soiled places and your clothes are ready to rinse. So next wash day, whistle up a Rinso Wash. A wash that's Rinso White and Rinso Bright. And now, Chester Morris and the Adventures of Boston Black.

[George Stevens]

It's obvious that an international bank should be established for reconstruction. At the United Nations Monetary and Financial Conference held at Bretton woods, certain preliminary steps were taken. However, it is only the beginning when you realize that the International Monetary Fund will total around $8,500,000,000. But that's only the beginning.

[Boston Blackie]

Yes, well, a small beginning. You know, I get kind of mixed up when I start counting over 800.

[George Stevens]

Oh, young man, we'll all have to learn how to count in millions and billions in the post war world.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, that's very interesting. Oh, here you are, Stuart. I'd like some dessert. Will you take this seat, miss?

[Helen Carew]

Oh, thank you.

[Boston Blackie]

Never mind the dessert, Stuart.

[George Stevens]

Well, I'm finished. Wouldn't you rather have this chair by the window?

[Helen Carew]

Thank you.

[George Stevens]

And good day to you, young man. Thanks for your company.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, thanks to you for the tip on the international monetary situation. I can't wait to use it. Very interesting man.

[Helen Carew]

And very distinguished looking too. Who is he?

[Boston Blackie]

I don't know, but he's awfully good at counting.

[George Stevens]

Is.

[Boston Blackie]

Is it all right if we talk?

[Helen Carew]

Why not? You see, my mother never told me not to talk to strangers on a train.

[Boston Blackie]

I like your mother. Very intelligent woman.

[Helen Carew]

Well, I'm no isolationist, but to make it proper, my name is Helen Carew.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, and mine is Boston Blackie.

[Helen Carew]

I've heard that name somewhere. Are you a baseball player?

[Boston Blackie]

No. Why? Do you like baseball?

[Helen Carew]

No, not particularly.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, why did you bring up the side of you guys?

[Helen Carew]

Just to make conversation.

[Boston Blackie]

Fine. Let's talk about you.

[Helen Carew]

All right. Look, I'm a very pleased young lady. On a train between Chicago and New York.

[Boston Blackie]

Why are you pleased?

[Helen Carew]

Because I didn't expect conversation with my dinner.

[George Stevens]

Well, do you realize that the International Monetary Fund will total about $8,500,000,000 this year?

[Announcer]

No.

[Inspector Faraday]

Yes.

[George Stevens]

You see.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, it's back again.

[George Stevens]

Excuse me. I've lost something.

[Boston Blackie]

It can't be that $8,500,000,000.

[George Stevens]

No, it was a chamois.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Pouch?

[George Stevens]

I don't see it. Wait.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, I'd better get out of the way.

[George Stevens]

It isn't here.

[Boston Blackie]

Pardon me, sir. What did you lose?

[Inspector Faraday]

This is terrible.

[George Stevens]

Terrible.

[Inspector Faraday]

Waiter.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Waiter.

[Boston Blackie]

It sounds important.

[George Stevens]

Young man, you have no idea how important. That pouch was worth $200,000.

[Boston Blackie]

That's a lot of money to be carrying around.

[George Stevens]

It wasn't money. It was an emerald. One of the most valuable gems in the world. The Star of the Nile.

[Boston Blackie]

What a pretty.

[George Stevens]

I tell you, Inspector, I've been robbed. It was sometime during the dinner hour. The Star of the Nile is missing.

[Inspector Faraday]

Okay, Mr. Stevens. I got that much from the telegram. The conductor said. Now, we'll search every passenger on the train if we have to, so calm down. Now, you say you thought you left.

[Announcer]

It in the diner.

[Inspector Faraday]

Were you alone?

[George Stevens]

No, a young man joined me for dinner. And then later, just before I left, a young lady was seated at our table.

[Inspector Faraday]

Friends of yours?

[George Stevens]

Oh, no. Just the people one meets on a train.

[Inspector Faraday]

Now, this young man, what was he like?

[George Stevens]

Well, he was a clean cut looking chap with dark hair, a good build, nice smile.

[Inspector Faraday]

I'm not a bit surprised. And the young lady?

[George Stevens]

Oh, quite attractive. As a matter of fact, the young man seemed rather taken with her.

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, Mr. Stevens, I don't think you have to worry about your Star of the N. I might even say the situation is well in hand. Matthew should be here any moment now with a man we're looking for.

[Matthews]

Here he is, Chief.

[Inspector Faraday]

Welcome, Boston, Blackie. Welcome home. Your new home. As a matter of fact. I've prepared a special escort to take you there.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, now, how thoughtful, Inspector. But where's the brass band?

[Inspector Faraday]

Come off it, Blackie. Where's the emerald?

[George Stevens]

This is a great shock to me, young man.

[Boston Blackie]

It's no shock to me, sir. I. I know my Faraday. He never fails. He never fails to be dead wrong.

[Inspector Faraday]

I'm sorry to disappoint you, Blackie, but we. You were in the diner with Mr. Stevens when the emerald disappeared.

[Boston Blackie]

Mr. Stevens? I didn't even know that was his name.

[Inspector Faraday]

Oh, now, Blackie, as if you didn't know that Mr. Stevens was vice president of Go Days and that he was carrying the Star of the Nile to New York. As if you didn't read the papers.

[Boston Blackie]

Of course I read the papers, Inspector, but I. I was a little more interested in the fact that we'd just taken can and Sipan.

[Announcer]

Okay, okay.

[Inspector Faraday]

Now you can tell me all about that at headquarters. Come on, Black.

[Boston Blackie]

Now, look, Faraday, do you mind if I talk this over with Mr. Stevens.

[Inspector Faraday]

Whatever you have to say, you stay at headquarters. Come on.

[George Stevens]

I'll be in touch with you, Inspector. Thanks again.

[Inspector Faraday]

Now, about that brass band, Blackie. I'll arrange to have one when we send you up the river.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, you leaving, Mr. Black?

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, oh, yes, yes. My Uncle Faraday always brings the town car to meet me.

[Inspector Faraday]

Uncle Faraday? My aunt.

[Helen Carew]

Well, your Uncle Faraday must have a lot of influence. I wonder when the police are going to let the rest of us off the train.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, Ms. Carew, I'll see if I can use my influence. You see, he happens to be the police. Oh, uncle, meet Ms. Carew.

[Helen Carew]

How do you do, Ms. Carew?

[Inspector Faraday]

Pleased to meet you. I hope this fellow hasn't taken you in too.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, no, Mr. Faraday. On the contrary, he's been very nice to me.

[George Stevens]

Thank you.

[Inspector Faraday]

Yeah, yeah, that's Blackie. Well, you might as well know, Ms. Carew. He's being charged with a theft of the Star of the Nile.

[Helen Carew]

But that's impossible.

[Inspector Faraday]

Impossible? What do you mean, Ms. Carew?

[Helen Carew]

I was at the table when Mr. Stevens discovered his loss. And I'm sure that Mr. Blackie had nothing whatever to do with it.

[Inspector Faraday]

You haven't known him as long as I have, Ms. Carew. You mean to tell me that Boston Blackie didn't do it?

[Helen Carew]

That's exactly what I mean.

[Boston Blackie]

Thanks, Ms. Carew, for telling the Inspector something that he should have known. He usually goes the long way around. You helped him find the shortcut.

[George Stevens]

Oh, you haven't gone yet, Inspector?

[Boston Blackie]

No.

[Inspector Faraday]

I'm afraid we'll have to begin all over again, Mr. Stevens.

[George Stevens]

What do you mean?

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, Ms. Carew here has a strong alibi for Blackie and I'm still looking for a loophole. But under the circumstances, I'm afraid I can't hold him.

[George Stevens]

But you're going to do something about it, aren't you, Inspector? Well, after all, you were sure that the emerald must still be on the train.

[Boston Blackie]

That's right, Mr. Stevens, it is. That's what I tried to tell you before the Inspector shut me up.

[Inspector Faraday]

Oh, so you know. Well, come on, Blacky, where is it?

[Boston Blackie]

I didn't say I knew where. Mr. Stevens. You're rather absent minded, aren't you?

[George Stevens]

Absent minded?

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Why, no.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, perhaps I'm jumping to conclusions. But of course, if you remember, you left the diner without paying your bill.

[Announcer]

I did?

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, not that I minded buying you dinner, Mr. Stevens, but it occurred to me that if you were absent minded enough to forget your dinner check, you, you also might have forgotten Something else?

[George Stevens]

How could I forget the Star of the Nile? I put it in my vest pocket just before I went into the diner.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Oh.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, are you sure you put it in your vest pocket, Mr. Stevens?

[George Stevens]

Yes, yes.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, then, the whole thing solved. You know, all during dinner I was envying you, Mr. Stevens. I really was. You look so cool and comfortable in that sports jacket you were wearing.

[Louis Louie]

And.

[Boston Blackie]

And you weren't wearing a vest, Mr. Stevens.

[George Stevens]

I wasn't? Well, that's absurd. Now, now, wait a minute.

[Inspector Faraday]

Oh, what's going on here? Vests, sports jackets. Come on, Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

Don't you remember, Mr. Stevens?

[George Stevens]

Let me think. I lay down to take a nap just before dinner. I got up and dressed, and by George, you're right. The emerald must be in the vest that I packed in my suitcase. Oh, Inspector, I'm terribly sorry to have caused you all this trouble. And you, young man and young lady. Oh, thank you. Thank you very much and good day.

[Inspector Faraday]

How do you like that?

[Boston Blackie]

You seem to be disappointed, Inspector.

[Inspector Faraday]

Yeah. You know, if Boston Blackie can sit next to a guy in a train that's got something worth 200 grand and not do something about it, I guess it's time I turned in my bag.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, you should have thought of that before, Inspector. Just think, by now you could have had a cottage, a couple of cows, a victory garden instead of that pet ulcer of yours. By the way, what do you call it?

[Inspector Faraday]

Boston Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

What else? Why, Inspector, how sweet of you, naming your first one after me.

[Helen Carew]

Taxi. Oh, taxi.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, Miss Carew, I've been looking for you. Here's a cab coming up now. May I drop you someplace?

[Announcer]

Thanks.

[Boston Blackie]

Where to, Miss Carew?

[Helen Carew]

The Middleton, please.

[Boston Blackie]

Okay, driver. 48th street off Lexington.

[Helen Carew]

You don't miss a thing, do you, Mr. Black?

[Boston Blackie]

Well, I. I have a great appreciation for beautiful things.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, then you must have seen the Star of the Nile.

[Boston Blackie]

Star of the Nile? I was talking about beautiful things. Such as? Well, the dessert I had for dinner last night.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, I was just marveling at how clever you were, helping Mr. Stevens to find his emerald.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, it isn't hard to find something that was never lost, Miss Garou. And incidentally, thanks for putting in a good word for me with the inspector.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, don't mention it.

[Boston Blackie]

By the way, I'll. I'll bet there's another thing your mother forgot to warn you about. Oh? Accepting dinner invitations from a young man in a taxi cab.

[George Stevens]

I told you not to disturb me, Ms. Everett. I'm too busy to see. Oh, who are you?

[Louis Louie]

Louis Louie. Yeah. Miller said you wanted to see me.

[Inspector Faraday]

Oh.

[George Stevens]

Oh, yes, Mr. Louie. Won't you sit down?

[Louis Louie]

Now, look, let's get this straight, Mr. Stevens. I don't know you, but Miller said you had a job for a guy with fingers.

[George Stevens]

Well, I wouldn't exactly put it that way, Mr. Stevens.

[Louis Louie]

And another thing, Mr. Stevens, this is strictly business. Miller says you want me to open up a safe down at Godey's and lift a hunk of jewelry. Well, now, and what's more, Mr. Stevens, I know you're vice president of Godeys. That's your business, but it ain't mine. And if you're worrying about what might happen, you're in a swell spot. After all, who'd the judge believe, me or you?

[George Stevens]

Well, I'm glad we understand each other, Mr. Louis. The emerald has already been deposited in the Godet vault. And since the exhibit will open tomorrow, there's no reason for any further delay.

[Matthews]

Hey, Blackie, did you hear me calling you?

[Boston Blackie]

Well, vaguely. To be honest with you, Shorty, I had my mind on somebody else.

[Matthews]

Well, boss, I just heard something I thought you'd be interested in. Yeah, you know you were telling me about that emerald mixed up on the train.

[Boston Blackie]

Yeah.

[Matthews]

Well, I just got a tip, see, Somebody's gonna crack the Go Day safe for that emerald.

[Boston Blackie]

When?

[Matthews]

Midnight.

[Boston Blackie]

How straight was this tip, Shorty?

[Matthews]

A very reliable tip. Horse Fingers.

[Boston Blackie]

Tommy Fingers. Oh, that's too big a job for him. He's only got 10.

[Matthews]

Well, that's what the man said. He said that?

[Boston Blackie]

That's small time safecracker. I guess I'd better go down and help him out. But before business pleasure.

[Announcer]

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[Boston Blackie]

Well, for once, Ms. Carew, I can't blame Faraday. After all, he brought us together.

[Helen Carew]

Brought us together?

[Louis Louie]

Yes.

[Helen Carew]

What do you mean?

[Boston Blackie]

Well, if he hadn't accused me, you wouldn't have had the opportunity to vouch for me. And, well, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to show you my appreciation.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, I see. Well, the whole thing was a little silly anyway.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, well, not all together. Faraday has the memory of an elephant and the persistence Of a little beaver and looks like both of them. If anything happens, it's got to be Boston Blackie.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, that's a nuisance, isn't it?

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, I don't know. Faraday hounds me, but it's good to have him around at the wind up.

[Helen Carew]

Blackie, I don't quite make you out, but I like you.

[Boston Blackie]

Thanks. I. I hope that's an understatement.

[Helen Carew]

Well, I'm surprised the police are so suspicious of me.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, that's the story of my life. You see, Faraday has good instincts, only he picks the wrong person. If he knew, for instance, that tonight I may have something to do with robbing a vault, he'd become suspicious right away.

[Helen Carew]

But of course you haven't anything to do with that.

[Boston Blackie]

But of course I have. Only it's not as bad as it sounds.

[Helen Carew]

Now I'm really puzzled.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, the only puzzle is why don't I spend the rest of the evening with you?

[Helen Carew]

Meaning that you have to leave?

[Boston Blackie]

Meaning that I have an important conference about something green and something Egyptian.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, I see. But like this thing, she won't talk.

[Boston Blackie]

Perhaps I'll have something to tell you later. I'll get your coat.

[Helen Carew]

Oh, thanks. I have to phone, but don't make.

[Boston Blackie]

Any dates for the next month. I want to put in my bed first.

[Helen Carew]

Hello, operator? Give me Madison 72772. Hello, Inspector? This is Helen Carew. I just had dinner with Boston Blackie. We're leaving now. He's dropping me off at my hotel. He's going down to go days. He's after the emerald. And Inspector, if you should happen to catch him, please don't mention me.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

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[Helen Carew]

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[Matthews]

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[Helen Carew]

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[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Little wash Day Song So get Rinsoe tomorrow. And now back to Chester Morris and the Adventures of Boston Blackie. Boston Blackie, unaware that Helen Carew has tipped off Inspector Faraday as to his destination, is en route to Godet's Jewelers to try to prevent the robbery of the vault there. And to discover who is back of the attempt to steal the famous Star of the Nile emerald. It is midnight at the Godet vault.

[Matthews]

It's no use, Louis. It's one of them new style vaults. I can't make it out.

[Louis Louie]

Well, we got dynamite. I have to use it. I don't like an oisy job. But what is it? I left it out in the alley. You'll get it. Okay, I'm going. Try again, Fingers. Stevens is paying off plenty. Well, I'm nervous.

[Matthews]

This is a big job, boss.

[Boston Blackie]

Too big for you, Fingers. Okay, stay where you are.

[Louis Louie]

Boston Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

That's right. What were you saying about a certain Mr. Stevens?

[Louis Louie]

Now look, Flacky, let's be sensible about this. Well, we're having a little trouble cracking this crib.

[Boston Blackie]

Yeah, I'll make a memoir. I bet you can't open it. Are you you kidding?

[Louis Louie]

Thing is, I'll make a good bet. All right, but it'll pay you to try.

[Boston Blackie]

I'll make a bet with you. Not the kind of a bet that'll pay you in money, but it might save a few years of your life.

[Louis Louie]

Huh? Yeah.

[Boston Blackie]

All you have to do is talk.

[Louis Louie]

Yeah, we'll talk, Blackie. And drop your rod first.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, so you got a little playmate. Okay, take your gun away from my back.

[Louis Louie]

Get it, Lily? I get it. You know, Blackie, this is a happy coincidence. As I said before, we can use you. Only now the bet's off. You're just gonna do it. Come on, get those fingers working.

[Boston Blackie]

And, and suppose these fingers can't open the vault?

[Louis Louie]

And the next time you go to buy gloves, you better look for mittens. Come on. Take a good look at the crib.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, a beautiful job. You know, Faraday should see me now. Okay, stand back and keep quiet.

[Louis Louie]

I will be quiet, all right. But it's up to you, Blackie. This gun can make a lot of noise.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Shh.

[Boston Blackie]

Wait a minute. It feels like. Ah, there's one. Now let's try this. Uh huh. Next one. Now. That's two. Now.

[Matthews]

It's the cops.

[Boston Blackie]

Yeah. Miller, is the alley door open? Yeah, and Joe's coloring out there.

[Louis Louie]

Okay, let's meet it.

[Inspector Faraday]

What about Blackie? Ah, forget about Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

Come on.

[Matthews]

Okay, carry loud.

[Announcer]

Chief.

[Matthews]

Stop, Blacky, or we'll shoot.

[Inspector Faraday]

I warned you, Blackie. Hey, this isn't Blackie. Hey, who are these other two? Oh, Louie.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Huh?

[Matthews]

Yeah. Fingerson Miller.

[Inspector Faraday]

Hey, what is this, a national convention? Where's Blackie?

[Louis Louie]

How'd you know Blackie was gonna be down there, Faraday?

[Inspector Faraday]

A little bird told me. But where is he?

[Louis Louie]

Well, now, I don't expect you to believe this, Inspector, but so help me. We were passing by the alley and we heard a noise and we come in.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Naturally curious, you understand. Yeah.

[Louis Louie]

And who do you suppose was starting.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

To crack that vault?

[Inspector Faraday]

Don't tell me. Boston Blackie.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Yeah.

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, then what are we doing out here in the alley? He couldn't have gotten away.

[Matthews]

Yeah, Chief, there's only two doors. We came through this one. So he better be back in that vault room.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

That's right.

[Inspector Faraday]

Eddie, watch these mugs here. All right, come on, Matthews, let's have a look.

[Louis Louie]

Yeah.

[Matthews]

You ain't in here. She ain't in here.

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, I can see for myself, Matthews. I can see for myself. Must have slipped through the door before we came in. Matthews, you're fired.

[Matthews]

Me, Chief? I ain't done nothing.

[Inspector Faraday]

That's the trouble. You never do anything. I see if the vault's open, Matthews.

[Matthews]

Okay, chief.

[Inspector Faraday]

Now, lock tight in the drum.

[Matthews]

Leaving a mark on it. Looks like we saved the emerald for go days, huh, Inspector?

[Inspector Faraday]

Yeah, but I wish somebody had saved Blackie for me. Matthews, I hate to say it, but we gave Blackie a break. We came in just in time to save him from getting into trouble.

[George Stevens]

I just wanted to thank you, Inspector, for preventing the robbery last night and catching the thieves.

[Inspector Faraday]

Don't mention it, mister.

[George Stevens]

Tell me, did they have a chance to open the ball?

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Nope.

[Inspector Faraday]

We were Johnny on the spot. They never even got started.

[George Stevens]

Well, Inspector, I can't thank you enough for the fine job you've done.

[Inspector Faraday]

Fine job? Nothing ever happens. Nobody steals anything. Listen, Mr. Stevens, if somebody should steal that emerald and I catch him, then you can thank me. What burns me up is that Boston Blackie was down there too. But he got away.

[George Stevens]

Boston Blackie?

[Boston Blackie]

He got away.

[George Stevens]

Are you sure the vault wasn't open?

[Inspector Faraday]

Sure, we tried it. It was locked in.

[George Stevens]

Well, that's fine, but to be on the safe side, I'd better check up.

[Boston Blackie]

I'll go right down to the vault myself.

[George Stevens]

But I tell you, Faraday, it's gone.

[Matthews]

The emerald's gone.

[George Stevens]

I just searched the vault.

[Matthews]

It's gone.

[Inspector Faraday]

That's great. I've really got Boston Blacky now, don't worry, Mr. Stevens.

[Matthews]

Calm down.

[Inspector Faraday]

You'll get your star and I'll get Boston.

[Announcer]

Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

So that's what happened, Helen. Faraday collected three mugs and he didn't seem pleased about it.

[Helen Carew]

Blackie, how did you get out?

[Boston Blackie]

Well, while Faraday was rounding up the other mugs, I got the last number of the vaults combination. You see, I opened the door and stepped in and then closed it.

[Helen Carew]

You might have been locked in.

[Boston Blackie]

I was locked in, fortunately, because somebody tried to handle the vault later. You see, Helen, modern vaults have an anti hold up device.

[Helen Carew]

What's that?

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, it's a sort of gimmick that locks the door from the inside. Well, I just pushed the lever. After they left, I slipped out through the alley door.

[Helen Carew]

What were you after, Blackie?

[Boston Blackie]

I told you before. Something green and something Egyptian. The Star of the Nile emerald, Of course.

[Helen Carew]

Did you find it in the vault?

[Boston Blackie]

Yes. Oh, but I didn't take it. I just wanted to make sure it was there.

[Helen Carew]

You didn't take it? Blackie, I don't understand you.

[Boston Blackie]

Now look, somebody's after the Star of the Nile. And if he gets it, somebody's going to take the rap for it. Could be me. But that's not the point. Nobody's going to take a rap for somebody else while I'm around.

[Helen Carew]

You're talking about somebody Who?

[Boston Blackie]

I'll find that out. But first I want to have a talk with Mr. Stevens at his hotel. Perhaps he has an idea. Goodbye, Helen. Next time I promise you we won't have any outside interference.

[Helen Carew]

Operator, give me Madison 72772. Hello, Helen Carew speaking. Oh, the Inspector isn't there. Well, then I want to leave a message. Tell him that Boston Blackie is on his way to the Kavanaugh hotel to see Mr. Stevens. I can't wait for the Inspector to call back, so tell him I'm going to see Stevens too. Right now. But try to get the inspector there as quickly as you can.

[Inspector Faraday]

Slow down, Blackie. Slow down there. Okay, you can march in step with me and Matthews.

[George Stevens]

Now.

[Boston Blackie]

You're taking your afternoon constitutional, gentlemen.

[Inspector Faraday]

What were you doing back there at the Middleton apartment, Blackie?

[Boston Blackie]

Inspector, you're privileged to know anything about my public life, but I insist that you don't interfere in my private affairs.

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, this is a little private affair that I am interfering in. You're under arrest for stealing the Star of the Nile.

[Boston Blackie]

What, again?

[Inspector Faraday]

And no alibi this time either. You were down at the Good Day vault with Louie and the two other guys. I got them and searched Them. But you got away. Now, somebody got that emerald out of the vault. Come on, shake your leg.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Bly.

[Inspector Faraday]

Hey, I didn't say stop. I said go.

[Announcer]

Police.

[George Stevens]

Police. I've been robbed.

[Boston Blackie]

Have you gone nut.

[Matthews]

Blackie.

[George Stevens]

Let me go.

[Boston Blackie]

Police. Cut it out.

[Inspector Faraday]

What is it?

[Boston Blackie]

Help.

[Matthews]

Tom.

[Inspector Faraday]

Listen, you.

[Matthews]

I'll really give it to you. Hear him? Hey, he's gone. Matthews, why don't you help me out of there? Come on. Hey, folks, look, I'm a police inspector. Honest I am. Matthews. Quick shooter, Blackie. Hey, listen. All of you stand back. Lay off that fella. He's a fleet. That's Matthews. He's police too. Thanks, chief. Say, did Blackie get away?

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Yeah.

[Matthews]

Matthews, you're fire.

[Helen Carew]

But I was sure he was coming here. Mr. Stevens.

[George Stevens]

Ms. Carew, why should Mr. Blackie come to see me at my hotel? Besides, I'm confident that by this time Inspector Faraday has made sure that the young man is no longer a free agent.

[Helen Carew]

Perhaps. Yes, perhaps you're right.

[Matthews]

But.

[Helen Carew]

Well, I'm not sure the inspector is right in what he's doing.

[George Stevens]

Now, Ms. Carew, it's quite obvious that you have an attachment for Mr. Blackie. And if the police have taken him, I won't have to worry about the Star of the Nile any longer.

[Boston Blackie]

The police haven't taken me, Mr. Stevens.

[George Stevens]

Boston Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

And incidentally, if I knew how much the Star of the Nile would be worth to you, I. I might listen to reason.

[Helen Carew]

Blackie.

[Boston Blackie]

Hello, Ms. Carew. I rather expected you'd be here too. I wouldn't try to phone, Mr. Stevens. You really don't want the police to come up here.

[George Stevens]

Why not?

[Boston Blackie]

Because it would be very embarrassing for you. And besides, it would be very embarrassing if I had to use this gun.

[Helen Carew]

Blackie, look.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, Helen, don't. Helen, why did you knock the gun out of my hand?

[Helen Carew]

Because you had me fooled for a while. But I'm finally beginning to understand you, Black.

[George Stevens]

All right, the two of you stand still. Put your hands up high.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, so you have a gun, too, Mr. Stevens. Is. Is that to guard the emerald you stole from your own vault?

[Helen Carew]

Mr. Stevens took the emerald?

[Boston Blackie]

Yes. Usually when people want to steal something, they just steal it. But Mr. Stevens had to do it the hard way.

[George Stevens]

But you made it much easier for me, Mr. Blackie. You see, you were in the vault. And now everybody will know that Boston Blackie stole the emerald.

[Boston Blackie]

There's just one thing I'd like to know, Mr. Stevens. Why does a vice president of a large firm like Godey's have to steal a piece of jewelry.

[George Stevens]

Well, there's an ugly word for it. Embezzlement. I'm awfully sorry, Ms. Carew. Sorry that you came here tonight because no one else could can know what you two know. Now I'm going to have to kill you.

[Boston Blackie]

Come on, Stevens.

[Inspector Faraday]

Give me that gun.

[George Stevens]

Stay where you are.

[Boston Blackie]

I want that gun, Stevens.

[Helen Carew]

Blackie, don't.

[George Stevens]

I told you to stay where you are.

[Boston Blackie]

Look, you can't pull that trigger.

[Matthews]

Get back. Get back.

[Inspector Faraday]

Thanks, Helen, for sending the message.

[Boston Blackie]

Inspector, I think Mr. Stevens will go with you now.

[Inspector Faraday]

Stevens.

[Boston Blackie]

Yes, Inspector. And thanks for putting Helen on this case. We've got your man.

[Inspector Faraday]

Come on, let's go.

[George Stevens]

No, I won't go. I can't go. I've gone long enough. I can never catch up. For years now I've been running after myself. Running away from something.

[Matthews]

I couldn't stop, but I've got to stop. You'll never get me, I tell you. I've got to stop.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, we got what we were looking for, but I can't say I'm very happy about it. Well, Faraday, this time I've really got to thank you.

[Inspector Faraday]

Don't kid me, Black.

[Boston Blackie]

No, on the level. You saved my life. You know, it's the first time in 10 years that I've been scared.

[Louis Louie]

Really?

[Boston Blackie]

Well, you know, Stevens might have pulled that trigger.

[Inspector Faraday]

No such luck.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, very funny. Yes, he just shot Helen and me. If you hadn't knocked on the door. He had only one other way out, Faraday. And because you came in, he took that way.

[Inspector Faraday]

Always blaming it on me, huh?

[Boston Blackie]

Now, look, Inspector, won't you miss me a teeny little bit?

[Inspector Faraday]

Does a guy miss a headache?

[Boston Blackie]

You know, Helen, you really had me fooled. But let me give you a tip. The next time you call Madison 72772, you better be inside a telephone booth. What? Remember when we were out for dinner the first time?

[Helen Carew]

Yeah.

[Boston Blackie]

Well, I went to get your coat, and as I was leaving, I heard you ask the operator for Madison 72772.

[Inspector Faraday]

My private number?

[Boston Blackie]

Sure. Only a few people know that number, and I'm proud to be one of them.

[Helen Carew]

So you knew I was working for the inspector?

[Boston Blackie]

Sure, but that didn't matter. You already had your hooks in me and I couldn't get loose.

[Helen Carew]

Well, perhaps now you'd like me to unhook you.

[Boston Blackie]

Oh, honey, with you, anything goes by hook or by crook.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

I suppose it's your business if you want to make a big job out of dishwashing. But I'd like to butt in just the same, because I feel you don't really like to spend a lot of time at the kitchen sink. And you don't have to if you put Rinso to work for you. Those peppy Rinso suds get your dishes sparkling bright so easily that there's not much point in scraping and scouring with the lazy suds of some soaps. And Rinso so economical too. Just a little Rinso goes a long, long way. So better get Rinso tomorrow for dishwashing, for all the soap and water jobs around the house, and for a wash. That's Rinso White and Rinso bright. And now a glimpse at next week's adventure of Boston Blackie.

[Matthews]

Here it goes. What a crack up, him playing closed cops in that car. You're never going to interrupt another one of our hijack jobs.

[Inspector Faraday]

Plain clothes cops.

[Louis Louie]

There ain't no cops.

[Boston Blackie]

The driver of the car that just.

[Louis Louie]

Wrapped around a telephone pole is Boston Blackie.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Friends, millions of tons of paper are needed to ship ammunition and blood plasma so vitally necessary in the winning of this war. Do your share to see that our boys get the material they need. Save paper. The need is terribly urgent. Now, one simple way to help is to take your own shopping bag to the grocers. Be sure to listen in 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. And when you get Rinso tomorrow, buy some Lifebuoy, too. Use Lifebuoy in your daily bath or shower. You love that rich, purifying lather, you know? Of seven leading brands, Lifebuoy gives you the most soap for your money. And besides, it's the only soap especially made to stop me.

[Boston Blackie]

This is the National Broadcasting Company.