Boston Blackie: The Jonathan Diamond 06/23/1944

Summary

Podcast Summary: Boston Blackie – "The Jonathan Diamond" (Aired 06/23/1944)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: Boston Blackie – "The Jonathan Diamond"
Date Released: October 25, 2025
Original Air Date: June 23, 1944

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Episode Overview

This episode of Boston Blackie, starring Chester Morris, delivers a classic detective mystery packed with intrigue, clever escapes, and witty banter. The main plot centers on the theft of the famed Jonathan Diamond, a treasure that draws Blackie into a complex web of deception, accusations, and crime. Throughout the episode, Boston Blackie must clear his name, rescue Miss Lee Moray from scandal, and outwit both police and criminals, all while showcasing his trademark charm and resourcefulness.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Framing Boston Blackie

• Blackie is identified by the police aboard a plane as “John J. Jones” but is recognized as Boston Blackie (01:41).
• Inspector Faraday has been trying to catch Blackie for years and believes this is the opportunity, with witness Lee Moray identifying Blackie as a thief (03:28).
• Memorable Quote:

  “Chances are I couldn’t have made the charge stick anyhow. Never have been able to tie anything on him in six years.”
  — Inspector Faraday [03:43]

2. Lee Moray’s Plea for Help

• Lee Moray reveals to Blackie in private that she falsely accused him to get his attention.
• She confesses her true motive: recovering the Jonathan Diamond, stolen from her apartment, on which her marriage and happiness depend (05:19–06:49).
• Notable Moment: Lee admits the setup and begs for his help, displaying both vulnerability and determination.

3. The Diamond’s Disappearance

• Blackie investigates George Atwater, Lee’s fiancé, and discovers the complexities of the diamond's custody (10:00–13:25).
• George’s suspicious behavior and reluctance to open the safe trigger Blackie’s scrutiny and lead to the police catching Blackie with the diamond (13:15–14:20).
• Faraday and police arrive in classic farcical fashion, and Blackie is caught "red-handed".

4. Blackie’s Incarceration and Bargain

• Blackie is detained but denies the charges, brilliantly arguing technicalities and poking fun at Inspector Faraday (15:40).
• Faraday makes a rare concession, trusting Blackie’s word to recover the diamond and offering temporary release (17:13–17:53).
• Notable Banter:

  “Your word’s always been good with me, Blackie.”
  — Inspector Faraday [17:30]

5. Unraveling the Real Theft

• Blackie re-investigates the Atwater house with Lee Moray, using audio clues to deduce how Atwater dialed a number (18:52–20:38).
• He discovers Atwater is being blackmailed by Duke Walton, a criminal with a reputation for dealing in “hot” stones.
• Blackie’s deduction that George removed the diamond from the safe after Blackie returned it is a turning point (19:08–19:14).

6. The Final Showdown

• Using his keen ear, Blackie traces Duke Walton to his hideout, leading to a suspenseful confrontation involving a fake fire, a locked door, and a desperate criminal (22:22–26:51).
• Classic Detective Ruse: Blackie distracts Duke by setting up a false emergency.
• The diamond is found hidden in the heel of Duke's shoe, closing the case with classic detective flair.

7. Resolution

• Blackie hands over the diamond, clears Lee Moray’s name, and shares a flirtatious exchange, all while ribbing Inspector Faraday one last time (27:20–27:38).
• Notable Quote:

  “It’s bargain day, Faraday. You’ve got your diamond and I’ve got Miss Moray.”
  — Boston Blackie [27:17]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Blackie’s Escapology:

  “Well, with these handcuffs on and two New York detectives guarding me, I couldn’t be of very much help to anybody.”
  — Boston Blackie [06:38]

• Inspector Faraday’s Weariness:

  “You’ve always been very dumb.”
  — Boston Blackie to Faraday [15:58]

• Justice Served:

  “The ice is in my right shoe. There’s a slide in the heel. The diamond’s inside.”
  — Duke Walton [26:51]

• Blackie’s Wit:

  “You know, I wouldn’t be surprised if instead of Boston Blackie, from now on I’m known as Chicago Cupid Shorty.”
  — Boston Blackie [09:12]

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 01:33 — Blackie’s alias discovered on the flight
• 03:28 — Inspector Faraday with Lee Moray and Chicago police
• 05:19 — Lee Moray’s private plea to Blackie
• 10:13 — Blackie’s investigation at the Atwater home
• 13:41 — Blackie caught with the diamond during the police raid
• 15:40 — Blackie in jail, trading banter with Faraday
• 17:53 — Blackie bargains for release to recover the diamond
• 18:52 — Blackie and Lee search the Atwater safe
• 21:07 — Faraday confronts Blackie: “Your time’s up, Blackie.”
• 22:22 — Blackie tracks Duke Walton
• 24:25 — Fake fire and Duke’s attempted escape
• 26:51 — Diamond discovered in Duke Walton’s shoe
• 27:20 — Farewell with Lee Moray and Faraday

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Tone & Style

The episode is driven by witty, fast-paced exchanges, playful rivalry between Blackie and Faraday, and the charming resourcefulness of Blackie himself. The tone is light, with hints of noir tension and clever detective work, punctuated by moments of comedy and romance.

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Summary

In “The Jonathan Diamond,” listeners experience an archetypal golden-age radio mystery—complete with a wrongly accused hero, a desperate damsel, sly villains, and a dogged cop. Boston Blackie navigates a maze of deception, ultimately clearing his name and restoring order, all with his trademark humor and style. The solution, found in a villain’s shoe, delivers a satisfying conclusion for fans of classic detective drama.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

From your fryer to the table. It's a quick trip for crispy fries, but how about a crosstown delivery? McCain? Sure. Crisp fries are designed to go from fryer to container to carrier to passenger seat. Across town during rush hour. Down a shortcut that wasn't all that short. To a doorstep before they hit the table in that first bite. The crispiness speaks for itself. To the last bite. McCain's sure crisp fries go the distance. See how far our fries can take your [e-mail] Delivery welcome to Choice Classic.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

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] 10pm Eastern wartime.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Your dial is set at 6.60weaf New York. Rinso R I N S O Soapy Rich Rinso presents Boston Blackie starring Chester Morris.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Municipal Tower to Transcontinental Flight 17. Municipal Tower to Transcontinental Flight 17. Over.

[George Atwater]

That's us, Tom.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Take it.

[Duke Walton]

Check Transcontinental Flight 17 in Municipal Tower. Flight 17, the municipal power.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Over.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Police instructions. Check and see if you have male Passenger occupying seat 24.Passenger occupying seat 24 wanted by police.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Over.

[Duke Walton]

I'm just checking my list, Joe. Yep, we got a man in 24. I'll tell him. Municipal Tower. We have a man in seat 24. The name he's traveling under is John J. Jones.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

John J. Jones. Maybe that's his right name. But the police want him. They know him as Boston Blackie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Maybe you've met Boston Blackie before on your local movie screen. In case some of you haven't, I think you'll soon be fast friends of his. And maybe you've already tried new Soapy Rich Rinso, too. In which case you don't need me to tell you how good it is. But if you aren't using Rinso now, I can't think of a better time for you to start now, when summer is here. You certainly don't want to spend hours on wash day scrubbing and boiling clothes. Well, just keep in mind that rinse o gets out the dirt without hard scrubbing or boiling. A short soaking in Rinso's lively suds. A few quick finger rubs and you'll be ready to hang out a Rinso white wash. Try this on your clothesline and see if you don't start whistling while you wash. And now meet Boston Blackie outside. The law is no strange territory to Blackie. But never does he Stray for personal reward. Although the police, and notably Inspector Faraday, find no solace in his motives and only bewilderment in his ability to remain out of their reach. Meet Chester Morris as Boston Blackie. Enemy to those who make him an enemy, friend to those who have no friend.

[Inspector Faraday]

You Chicago police have been very cooperative. Thanks a million.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Glad to help you, Inspector Faraday.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

When we send a man to New.

[Inspector Faraday]

York, you can return the favor.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Glad to.

[Inspector Faraday]

Anytime, captain.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

There's the plan now, Inspector. See it? Blackie has got to be on it. We know he was on the plane when it left its right, and it hasn't made any stops.

[Inspector Faraday]

Well, Blackie's liable to get out of anything anytime. I remember once I had him in two sets of handcuffs. In the next minute, no handcuffs, no Blackie. Chances are I couldn't have made the charge stick anyhow. Never have been able to tie anything on him in six years.

[Lee Moray]

You'll be able to arrest him now, won't you, Inspector?

[Inspector Faraday]

You're sure Blackie's the man, are you, Ms. Moray?

[Lee Moray]

Oh, of course I'm sure. I was with my grandfather when he was robbed and the money stolen. The thief wore no mask, and I recognized him from the picture of Boston Blackie that was in the paper last year. I'm sure it was Blackie. Why do you keep asking me if I'm sure?

[Inspector Faraday]

I just wanted to be certain, that's all. I've been waiting to get a witness to make a positive identification for a long time.

[Lee Moray]

Oh, here comes the plane now. Do you think he'll have the money with him? I can't wait until I get my hands on it.

[Inspector Faraday]

There's lots of money in this world, Ms. Moray. What I can't wait to get my hands on is Boston Blackie. Go ahead in, Miss Moray. I've been keeping Blackie in my hotel room here until our plane leaves for New York. Talk to him yourself. I can't get anything out of him.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Go ahead now.

[Inspector Faraday]

Monahan's in there guarding him, and I'll be right here outside the door.

[Lee Moray]

All right, Inspector Faraday.

[Inspector Faraday]

Blackie always was a soft touch for a girl. Here's hoping you get something out of him, Inspector.

[Lee Moray]

You'll never know how important it is to me that I do. Hello.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

He won't say a word, miss. Just sits there like he did all the time the inspector was questioning him.

[Lee Moray]

Oh, I'll try. Blackie. Boston Blackie, would you talk to me.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

About business or pleasure?

[Lee Moray]

Maybe a little of both. Detective Monahan, could Mr. Blackie and I go over in the corner and talk?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sure.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I don't know why not. I'll stroll over to the window.

[Lee Moray]

Would you please come over here with me, Blackie?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Why, sure. I've been waiting for a chance like this to have a little chat with you, Ms. Moray. You identified me as the man who stole $10,000 from your grandfather.

[Lee Moray]

Yes. Yes, I did.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You know, you never saw me before in your life, Miss Moray.

[Lee Moray]

I wish I had. Then I wouldn't be in such desperate trouble now.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You're in trouble? You had me arrested because you're in trouble? What is this? A new switch on the share the wealth plan?

[Lee Moray]

Oh, please, let me explain. From what I've heard of you, Blackie, you're the only man living who can help me. But I had no idea of where or how I could reach you.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, so you made up the story of my stealing your grandfather's money, huh?

[Lee Moray]

Yes, I did. I knew the police could trace your movements where I couldn't. And I knew you could get away from Inspector Faraday once I'd seen you.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, thanks for the confidence.

[Lee Moray]

The very worst. I could have said I was mistaken in the identification. And then they would have had to let you go. Only by then it would be too late.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Say, look, let's get organized. Too late for what?

[Lee Moray]

To recover the diamond that was stolen from me.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You've got the wrong boy, lady. If a diamond was stolen from you, let the police get it back. They're in that business.

[Lee Moray]

But that diamond, Blackie, the rest of my life depends on it. I must have it back by tomorrow night. Oh, please. Please help me.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, with these handcuffs on and two New York detectives guarding me, I couldn't be of very much help to anybody.

[Lee Moray]

But those handcuffs. Haven't I heard that you can get out of them whenever you want to?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Yes, but I've gotta want to first.

[Lee Moray]

Oh, I'm sorry. I'm more than sorry. I'm miserable. I knew I had to reach you, and I just messed up everything. I'll never.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, wait a minute. Wait a minute, Ms. Moray. We'll figure some way out. Here, wipe your eyes with this handkerchief.

[Lee Moray]

Thank you. But your hand. You got another handcuff? Shh.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay, now.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

There.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Your eyes are nice and dry. Now blow. You feel better now?

[Lee Moray]

Yes. Yes, I do.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

All right, then let me have your bedtime story.

[Lee Moray]

I don't know how I can laugh.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, it's easy. You. You just open your mouth and close your eyes and think of Inspector Faraday. Never fails Come on, Miss Moray, tell me the whole story before Faraday gets restless.

[Lee Moray]

Well, I'm engaged to George Atwater. Yes, we're to be married soon, and yesterday he brought me something to look at. The Jonathan diamond.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

The Jonathan, huh? Oh, that's worth a fortune.

[Lee Moray]

Well, George's father has millions.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Hey, Ms. Murray, you all right over there?

[Lee Moray]

Oh. Oh, yes, officer, thank you. I won't be a minute. Now, Blackie, the diamond belonged to George's father. George brought it over to show me, and then he had a little too much to drink, and I thought it safer if he left it with me. He agreed. And sometime during the night, it must have been stolen from my apartment.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I get it. If you don't produce the diamond, there'll be a mess. The police don't know anything about the diamond.

[Lee Moray]

No, that's why I made up the story about my grandfather and the stolen money.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, when do you have to produce the Jonathan, Miss Moray?

[Lee Moray]

Tomorrow night. George gets back from a trip, then he'll want it in.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, Blackie, tomorrow night? It doesn't give me much time to work, but I'll try. Call the detective over here.

[Lee Moray]

All right, but why?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Don't ask questions. Just get him over.

[Lee Moray]

All right. Officer. Officer, would you come over here a minute, please?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sure, Ms. Snatcher.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Well, did he tell you anything?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

No, but I've got something to tell you, Monahan.

[Inspector Faraday]

Indeed?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

And what's that?

[Narrator/Announcer]

This.

[Lee Moray]

You shouldn't have done that, Blackie. You shouldn't have hit the officer.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You sure would have disappointed me if you hadn't said that. Now, listen, I'm going out the window and down the fire escape. As soon as I get moving, you scream for Faraday. Tell him what happened, that I socked Monahan and put the handcuffs on you. Here, I'd better do that now. Faraday's got the key. He'll open them later. There. Now, remember, you finally worked this handkerchief from around your mouth and screamed. Have you got that?

[Lee Moray]

Yes. Oh, Blackie, please remember that getting back that diamond means my marriage and my whole life's happiness.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay. Well, I'm going to New York and I'll do my best. If I get back the diamond, you get married. You know, I wouldn't be surprised if instead of Boston. Blackie, from now on, I'm known as Chicago Cupid Shorty. Listen, when a piece of ice like the Jonathan diamond is lifted, somebody's got to know something about it.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Look, Blackie, I've been out all night on it. Nobody knows nothing. All I could pick up Was that. A fellow named Atwater?

[Duke Walton]

Owns it.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

None of the boys would touch it. That is, except Duke Walton. I'm telling you, it's as hot as a pistol. But Duke's been bragging that he'll grab.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

It one of these days. Yeah? Well, where can I find him?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Well, I. I checked that, too. He's out of town. That's definite. He has been gone a week.

[Inspector Faraday]

Now, look, boss, why don't you lay off, Shorty?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I promise to get that diamond back. I charted a plane out of Chicago last night after breaking out of that hotel room. Young Atwater isn't due back in town till tonight, so I still have a little time. I'm going to waste some of it on a visit to the Atwater house.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Ain't you a little out of your class up there, Blackie? You know, they got an awful lot of dough, those Atwaters.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You know something, Shorty? After the way that Moray girl smiled at me in Chicago, I kind of feel like a million dollars myself.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Yes, sir?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I'd like to see Mr. Atwater.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Who shall I say calling, please?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Mr. Jones. Mr. John J. Jones. Mr. Atwater doesn't know me, but you can say it's about his son.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

About Mr. George Atwater Jr. That's. He's in, sir. Would you like to see him?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

George is in. Well, I certainly would like to see him. When did he get back?

[Municipal Tower Controller]

A little while ago, sir. He returned earlier than we expected. Come this way. He's in the library right here.

[Inspector Faraday]

Shall I announce you?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

No. No, thanks. I'll go right in.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Very good, Sir.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Hello there. Mr. Atwater? Yes?

[George Atwater]

I'm George Atwater. Who are you?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

My name is Jones, Mr. Attwater. John J. Jones. I'm a friend of your fiance's.

[George Atwater]

Oh, a friend of Lee.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

That's right. And if you don't mind, I'd like to ask you a question.

[George Atwater]

Sure, go ahead.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, the night before last when you left Ms. Moray, you were a little.

[George Atwater]

What do you mean, a little? I was a lot.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, I don't mean to be personal, but did you stop off anywhere on your way home?

[George Atwater]

No, I got a cab and came right home.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Mr. Atwater, where do you usually keep the Jonathan Diamond?

[George Atwater]

I don't know what you're driving at, Mr. Jones, but. Well, we keep it here in the library in this wall safe. Only it's not here now.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Would you open the safe for me, please?

[George Atwater]

Well, now, Mr. Jones, you're a perfect stranger to me, even though you are a friend of Ms. Moray's. Well, you could hardly expect. Oh, so this is a hold of her.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I'm sorry I had to pull this gun on you, Mr. Atwater, but I want to see that safe. You don't mind if I lock the library door, do you?

[George Atwater]

I do mind, but I don't suppose that matters.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Not a bit. There we are. So the Jonathan was kept in the safe, huh? Combination, Mr. Atwater. And keep your hands where I can see them.

[George Atwater]

Sorry, Mr. Jones, I seem to have forgotten the combination.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, I haven't time to make you remember it. Oh, the safe doesn't look too tough. Come over here where I can watch you while I go to work on it.

[George Atwater]

All right. There's nothing inside the safe, but go ahead and open it.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Quiet. Take that watch off your wrist and put it in your pocket. It's making too much noise. I can't hear the tumblers drop. Come on. Come on. Take it off. All right, I think I've got the first number. Now for the second one. This box of yours is pretty simple, Mr. Atwater. In fact, it's about the most unsafe safe I ever saw.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

That's the second number, all right. Do you want to be a good boy and tell me the last number? No.

[George Atwater]

Okay.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Be a bad boy and watch me find it out for myself.

[George Atwater]

There.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

That ought to do it. I'll try the handle now.

[George Atwater]

Well, made it my compliment.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Save them. Let's take a look in this jewelry box. Oh, so the Jonathan diamond wasn't in the safe, huh? Well, what's this then?

[George Atwater]

That? That's the Jonathan, all right. I. I meant to leave it at Ms. Moray's apartment, but. But I changed my mind.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Open this door. Open it up. Open the door, Mr. Redwater. Where the police.

[George Atwater]

Open up.

[Inspector Faraday]

Faraday.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

He must have had Shorty watched and trailed me here.

[George Atwater]

You don't mind if I close this safe door, do you, Mr. Jones? I want you to be caught with that diamond still in your hand. This seems to be my day for unexpected visitors.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Keep away from that door, Atwater.

[George Atwater]

You don't scare me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I'm going to open it.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I'm coming. I'm coming.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I'm going.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

You'll have to hurry.

[Inspector Faraday]

He's going through the window.

[Lee Moray]

Quick.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

He's got the Jonathan diamond.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He must still be in the garden.

[Inspector Faraday]

I've got two men out there. Maybe I can spot him from here. Come on, Monahan.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Blackie. Blackie, stop. Shoot.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

We've got him.

[George Atwater]

And he's got the Jonathan diamond.

[Narrator/Announcer]

At last.

[Inspector Faraday]

Boston Blackie caught red handed.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, it does look as though Blackie is in for it now. But I have a hunch there's still plenty of action coming up and shifting from Blackie to Whitey, that is Rinso White. I'd like to tell you about a completely different kind of action, the kind you get with Rinso suds in your washer. Yes, those Rinso suds are so peppy and lively, they get your clothes sparkling white and bright with as little as a five minute run per load. And when I say sparkling white, of course, I really mean Exactly Rinso white. And there's no better way than that whistle to describe the special kind of white Rinso gets your clothes. That's because Rinso gets out more dirt. Simple, isn't it? No wonder Rinso is the only soap recommended by the makers of 33 leading washers. And of course, a short run is not only easy on your washer, it's easy on your clothes. Keeps them new looking longer. So, next wash day, do yourself a big favor, whistle up a Rinso White. Rinso Bright wash. And now back to the Adventures of Boston Blackie, starring Chester Morris.

[Inspector Faraday]

How do you like ourselves, Blackie? Air conditioning between the bars and everything comfortable enough for you?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, sure, this one's wonderful. I wish you'd try sleeping on that mattress they have in here. I gave up in the middle of the night and slept on the stone floor. It was softer. Oh, come on, Faraday, how about a couple of pillows?

[Inspector Faraday]

Oh, poor Blackie. Too bad I didn't hear you. I've suddenly gotten very deaf.

[Duke Walton]

Isn't that terrible?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You've suddenly gotten very deaf. And you've always been very dumb.

[Inspector Faraday]

Very funny, Blackie.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Yes, I know. New gag rider.

[Inspector Faraday]

Last one. Have to go back to kindergarten.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Yes, and he told me how much all the other children miss you since you stopped going.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Faraday.

[Inspector Faraday]

Blackie, we had to grab you on that Moray girl's charge. All right, so you grab me a $10,000 stick up. Blackie, that isn't important now. We'll talk about that later. But where's the Jonathan Diamond?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Jonathan Diamond?

[Narrator/Announcer]

What's that?

[Inspector Faraday]

Listen, Blackie, you've had that diamond in your hand now. You had it when we broke in. Atwater saw it there. Where is it now?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Now, you listen, Faraday, you've got to get me out of here in a couple of hours. You haven't a thing to hold me on.

[Inspector Faraday]

No breaking into the Atwater house.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I broke out of the house, not into it. Now, see if that's a crime, Inspector.

[Inspector Faraday]

You opened the safe in the library and you stole the Jonathan diamond.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

How about that?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You sure I did? Does that safe look forced? Did you find the diamond on me?

[Inspector Faraday]

No, no, no, no to all those things. But we've got George Atwater as a witness.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

A witness to what? I was calling on him at the suggestion of a mutual friend, Inspector. We were having a chat when somebody started to pound on the door. I got scared and jumped through the window. You know, things like that happen, Inspector. People get scared and they jump.

[Inspector Faraday]

Blackie, I'm telling you this man to man. We've got a case against you. Atwater's word against yours that you robbed his safe and slugging Monahan in Chicago. The Moray girl's testimony that you robbed a grandfather. That'll add up to 10 years at least.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Go ahead, Inspector.

[Inspector Faraday]

All right, I'll be honest, Blackie. Young Atwater screaming about his diamonds, says you had it one minute, we grabbed you the next minute, so it can't be missing. Only yet it is. All right, you tell us where you hit it, and I'll get him to drop all charges. I'll even talk to the Moray girl to get her to go easy if you return her dole. Now, how's that?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I don't know.

[Inspector Faraday]

You must have it stashed somewhere. Give me your word of honor to deliver it back to me today, and I'll let you out. Your word's always been good with me, Blackie. Now, come on, don't you want to.

[Duke Walton]

Get out of jail?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I don't know. Now, Faraday, it's kind of a nice jail, you know, air conditioning between the boxes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Blackie.

[Inspector Faraday]

Blackie, be a good guy.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay, Faraday, as a favor to you, I'll come out and you'll have your diamond back two hours after I leave here. But I'm not to be bothered during that time by the cops, you understand?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Bothered.

[Inspector Faraday]

You'll be protected. And thanks a million, Blackie.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

That's all right, Faraday. I'll get plenty of satisfaction every time I remember you begging me to get out of jail. Hello, Ms. Moray? This is Blackie. Can you talk?

[Lee Moray]

Oh, yes, of course. Nobody's here. Did you.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Did I get the diamond? Well, yes and no, Ms. Moray. Nobody ever stole it from your apartment.

[Lee Moray]

What?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Atwater says he took it with him when he left you the other night.

[Lee Moray]

But that's impossible. He didn't. I know he didn't. I even looked at it after he left.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, Ms. Moray will you meet me by the shrubbery alongside the library window of the Atwater house in exactly a half an hour.

[Lee Moray]

All right. But what are we going to do?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

We're going to rob a safe, Ms. Moray, with police protection. Keep that flashlight steady, Ms. Mori, please. If we're lucky, the safe won't be locked.

[Lee Moray]

Why not?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Because nobody knows I put the diamond back in it when the police pounded on the door and it was only slammed shut by young Atwater. Well, here it is. There, you see? It was open. And here's the box that holds the Jonathan diamond. Put your flashlight on it. We'll take a quick look.

[Lee Moray]

All right. There. The box is empty.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Uh oh. Atwater must have seen me put it back and grabbed it. But why is he telling the police that I have it?

[George Atwater]

And see that I'm not disturbed.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Quick.

[George Atwater]

That's at water.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Now put out that flash and get back at these drapes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Hurry.

[Lee Moray]

All right.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Seven, six, nine.

[Lee Moray]

What are you doing, Blush?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I'm counting the clicks in the dial. 7, 3, 4, 2. Got it.

[George Atwater]

Hello, this is George Atwater.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I got your message.

[George Atwater]

But why did you call me here after I. I don't care about that.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

We made a deal.

[George Atwater]

I don't owe you a dime anymore, and you got what you want.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Well, you have to expect it to.

[George Atwater]

Be hot for a while. And look, remember this. I'm washed up with you and that crooked roulette wheel of yours. We're all square. And if you call me here again.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I'll turn you over to the police.

[George Atwater]

Yes, yes, If I hear of anybody who wants to buy it, I'll let you know. You'll what? Don't be foolish.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Who'd believe that? Goodbye.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I think I understand everything now, Ms. Moray, but I've got to find the man Atwater just called.

[Lee Moray]

How can you? We didn't mention any names.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

No, but I counted the clicks as he was dialing that number. If my ears haven't let me down, I can call that number two. Anyhow, I'm going to try.

[Lee Moray]

You think that man has a Jonathan Diamond?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Yes, I think so. But you don't have to worry about it. From now on, you won't be blamed because it was missing from your apartment.

[Lee Moray]

But you're in a mess now, aren't you?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, yes, kind of. You see, I promised Faraday that he'd have his diamond back in two hours, and I can't keep that promise. Well, I hope the OPA hasn't put a ceiling on tempers, because if they have, he'll Hit it.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Hello, please, Headquarters.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Inspector Faraday, please.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Just a minute.

[Inspector Faraday]

Faraday speaking.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

This is Blackie Faraday.

[Inspector Faraday]

Your time's up, Blankie. Have you got the Jonathan diamond?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, no, Inspector, I haven't.

[Inspector Faraday]

You're stalling now, Blankie. You've crossed me for the last time. I'm gonna have a dragnet out that'll have you down here before you know it. And you're gonna stay in jail this time.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

But, Inspector, listen, I. He wouldn't listen, Shorty. I've got to work extra fast now.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Gee, Blackie, look, if there's anything.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Hold it, Shorty. I'm going to try that number Atwater called.

[Inspector Faraday]

Hello?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Hello? Atwater told me to call you.

[Duke Walton]

Yeah, who's this?

[Inspector Faraday]

I've got cash.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I'd like to trade in for something you've got, Atwater says.

[Duke Walton]

Atwater says, huh? Okay. I'm in an old house, 632 W. 100th St, first door on the right. As you come in, get here fast and we'll talk business.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay, bye.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Worked, eh, Bucky?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I don't know. It was a little too easy. Come on, Shorty. We're going up there to get Faraday his diamond. Unless his dragnet gets me first.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Blackie, duck down. Duck down this hallway.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay. What is it, Shorty?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Prowl car just coming this way. I never saw so many cops as we passing the way up here.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Never mind, Shorty. Stay flattened out against this door until it's time for what I told you to do.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Yeah, okay, Blackie, but who really stole the Jonathan Diamond?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Nobody stole it, Shorty. Atwater left the stone at Lee Moray's apartment and then returned later that night and lifted it so that Ms. Moray could report it stolen to the police.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Ixnay, ixnay, boss.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Coppers.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Okay. Now, look, boss. Why did Atwater want the Dane reported?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

So he wouldn't be involved. This guy I called up, the one who lives in this building, has something on Atwater and wanted the diamond as his price for clamming up. Atwater had to get it for him, see?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Oh, yeah, I get it. He stashed it in his own safe until he could reach this guy and turn it over to him. Only you opened the safe before he could do it. And he had to figure out a new story, huh, boss?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Sure. All he had to tell the cops then is that he was afraid that Jonathan wouldn't be safe at the girl's apartment and. And that he went back in to get it. Oh. Huh. I thought it was pretty cute when I put the diamond back in the safe. But Atwater must have seen me. Well, wish me luck, Shorty. And don't forget what I told you to do.

[Lee Moray]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Okay, boss.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Quick.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Come on. It's okay now.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

So long.

[George Atwater]

Yeah?

[Duke Walton]

Who is it?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I called you a little while ago.

[Inspector Faraday]

Open up.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Okay.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, Duke Walton.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Ha, ha.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Put that gun down, Duke. You and I can make a deal.

[Duke Walton]

Think so?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Sure.

[Duke Walton]

Lucky you're not as cute as you thought. I called that water back and found your call was a phony. Too bad for you. Now I gotta bump you.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Wait a minute, Duke.

[Duke Walton]

I'm gonna wait a couple of minutes. Blackie, some friends of mine are coming over with a car to take you on a little trip. Now, sit down in that chair and put your arms behind your back. Go on. I ain't the patient type.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay, Duke. How's that?

[Duke Walton]

It's better. Now, I'm gonna tie you up nice.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

And pretty like that.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

How do you like it?

[Duke Walton]

Too tight for your pretty hands to be tied?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, yes, if you really want to know.

[Duke Walton]

I don't. I'll give it an extra yank just to make sure.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Hey, Duke.

[Inspector Faraday]

Huh?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Duke, look under the door. That's smoke.

[Duke Walton]

Hey, that's right. Well, that makes things easier. This joint's a fire trap. I'll scram out of here and leave you tied up.

[Inspector Faraday]

Blackie.

[George Atwater]

Blacky.

[Duke Walton]

I guess I was just born under a lucky star.

[Inspector Faraday]

Maybe.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

But don't forget, Duke, sometimes stars have a habit of falling.

[Duke Walton]

Okay, so I'm ducking right out of here.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Fire.

[George Atwater]

Fire.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

The whole building's on fire. Come on, get out of here.

[Duke Walton]

That does it. So long, Blackie. Me and the Jonathan diamond are getting out of here and both of us are nice and safe. Which is more than I can say for you, pal.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Wait a minute, Duke. I've got a proposition.

[Duke Walton]

Sure, but I got a date. No use trying to bust him. Ropes, boy. Maybe the fire will burn him through for you, huh?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Hey, you did it. How'd you get out of them roofs?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Never mind.

[Municipal Tower Controller]

Ain't gonna do you any good.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, yes, it is. Duke, this place is on fire. Go on, try and get out.

[Duke Walton]

I don't have to try. I'm getting.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Take a look at the door, Duke.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

It's locked.

[Duke Walton]

Sure it's locked, and I'm gonna open it right now. Hey, hey, where'd the key go to?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

I've got it, Duke, right here. I locked the door and removed the key when I had my back to the door after you got the drop on me.

[Duke Walton]

Come on, give it to me. Give it to me.

[Inspector Faraday]

We'll both be burned to death.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Sure, Duke. Here it is.

[George Atwater]

Catch.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Hey, hey, don't.

[Duke Walton]

Don't throw it like.

[Inspector Faraday]

Hey, where'd it go?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I gotta get it.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Sure, you're gonna get it, but good.

[Lee Moray]

Ha, ha.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You miss me, sucker? I'll sucker you out, get you for this.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Lucky if it's a.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Takes up a million.

[Lee Moray]

Oh.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Hey.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Hey, you're breaking my wrist.

[Inspector Faraday]

Drop that gun.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay. Now, where's the diamond?

[Duke Walton]

Am I the diamond? Blackie, the fire will both be trapped.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, there's no fire, sucker.

[Duke Walton]

Huh?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

My pal Shorty burned some papers in the hall and pounded on the door. Now, get with that diamond. You must have it on you when you thought there was a fire. You'd have never left without it.

[Duke Walton]

Ain't got it, Blackie. And I found your phone call was a phony. I give it to a guy to hold.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You're lying, Duke. I'm going to search you. Now, turn around with your back to me and keep your hands in the air.

[Duke Walton]

Yeah, okay. But I tell you, I ain't got it on me.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, we'll see. It's not here. Not here. It's not here.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

It's me, boss. Everything all right?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Okay, Shorty, I'll let you in. Well, I. Pick up the key now. Don't move, you.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Well, it worked, huh, boss?

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Yeah, it worked. But do you recognize this guy, Shorty?

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

Yeah, sure. That's Duke Walton, the guy I was telling you about. It was bragged he'd have the Jonathan diamond.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, he hasn't got it. I've searched him. He's clean, Shorty.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

He's holding out the dirty heel.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Yes, the dirty heel. He or, you know, Shorty, I think I've got something there. It's the one place I didn't look. Take off your shoes, Duke. Come on, take them off.

[Duke Walton]

There you went, Blackie. The ice is in my right shoe. There's a slide in the heel. The diamond's inside.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Now, that's being very sensible, Duke. I'll just take the diamond out of that slot it's in and at the same time pull myself and Inspector Faraday out of a great big hole. Well, it's bargain day, Faraday. You've got your diamond and I've got Ms. Moray. Right, honey?

[Lee Moray]

Well, for a while, Blackie. Then I've got to go back home to Wisconsin.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Oh, well, can we go now, Inspector?

[Inspector Faraday]

Okay, Blackie, go ahead, beat it. You're in the clear. Only remember this. You make one slip, Blackie, and as sure as my name is Faraday, I'll be on your neck.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

You'll be on my neck, huh? Okay, inspector. But before Ms. Moray leaves for Wisconsin.

[Inspector Faraday]

I. I hope I'll have her there.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

For a little while first.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, say, one more thing about Rinso. That same Rinso that's such a big help on wash day. I'd just like to add that it's also a mighty big help. Three times every day at dishwashing time. Even your greasiest roaster is a cinch to wash in those rich Rinso suds. And of course, Rinso's grand for all the soap and water jobs around the house. Walls, floors, woodwork, windows, tiles. They all come sparkling bright and clean with Rinso on the job. So get Rinsoe tomorrow for dishwashing, for housework and for a wash. That's. And now a glimpse at next week's adventure of Boston Blackie.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I won't do it, I tell you. I can't do it, Mr. Manletter.

[Lee Moray]

It's the only way your business can be saved.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I don't care about that. The only way it can be saved is by risking the life of my friend Boston Blackie.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

Well, I'd rather it be lost.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I won't ask Blackie to keep that appointment. I don't even want to know about it.

[Lee Moray]

All right, Mr. Manletter. If that's the way you want it.

[Detective Monahan (Shorty)]

I'm going out and try to raise the money. You'll hear from me later. And remember, I don't want Blackie to hear about this.

[Lee Moray]

Hello, Mary. Get me Boston Blackie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Be sure to listen at this same time next week for another exciting adventure with Boston Blackie. Starring Chester Morris. With Richard Lane as Inspector Faraday. 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. Original music for this program by Charles Cornell. This is Harlow Wilcox speaking for the makers of Rinso. And wishing you all a very pleasant good night. And don't forget, tomorrow, when you ask your grocer for the new Rinso. Buy a cake of Lifebuoy. At the same time, Lifebuoy's rich, purifying lather goes right after dirt and perspiration. Leaves you feeling extra clean. So use Lifebuoy daily in your bath or shower. Remember, it's the only soap specially made to stop be.

[Boston Blackie (Chester Morris)]

This is the National Broadcasting Company.