The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Gold Cobra 06/21/1950

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Gold Cobra
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Release Date: December 1, 2024
Episode Air Date: June 21, 1950

---

Introduction

The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Gold Cobra is a classic episode from the esteemed Choice Classic Radio Detectives series. Starring Gerald Moore as the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe, this episode delves into a gripping tale of deceit, betrayal, and the pursuit of a priceless artifact. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles, the story intricately weaves together elements of mystery and suspense, characteristic of the Golden Age of Radio.

---

Plot Overview

Initial Encounter

The episode kicks off with Philip Marlowe engaging in a seemingly innocuous encounter with Jake, a blind man seeking spare change. Through witty dialogue, Marlowe reveals his keen observational skills and underlying suspicions about Jake’s true intentions. This interaction sets the tone for the unfolding mystery surrounding the coveted Gold Cobra.

Philip Marlowe: "You mean your first shot in an hour, don't you, Jake? Huh?"
Timestamp: 00:44

Meeting Roth Winkham

Marlowe is soon approached by Roth Winkham, a friend of his late partner Mordecai Ziff. Winkham is visibly distressed and urgently seeks Marlowe’s assistance in transporting a valuable item—a Gold Cobra—to Chicago for the Asheville Museum. The conversation reveals the high stakes involved, with Winkham expressing his deep concern over potential threats seeking the artifact.

Roth Winkham: "My very life may be in danger... We must be off."
Timestamp: 03:26

The Chase

As Marlowe and Winkham set off in Marlowe’s car, they discover they are being followed. Winkham’s paranoia about being watched adds tension, highlighting the dangerous players interested in the Gold Cobra. The suitcase containing the artifact becomes a central point of contention as the protagonists navigate through unforeseen challenges.

Roth Winkham: "Now, sir, what exactly did I say to you on the telephone?"
Timestamp: 04:22

Encounter at Beachwood Plaza Hotel

Marlowe makes a critical stop at the Beachwood Plaza Hotel to retrieve the suitcase. Here, he meets Abigail Sieberg, a red-haired woman who unexpectedly confronts him. The sudden appearance of a mysterious figure, Akbar, escalates the situation, leading to a tense standoff involving a live cobra and increasing uncertainty about Ally Sieberg’s true motives.

Abigail Sieberg: "Don't bother getting in the car, Mr. Marlow."
Timestamp: 09:05

Confrontation and Revelation

In a dramatic turn of events, the presence of the cobra intensifies the confrontation. Marlowe’s investigation uncovers deeper layers of betrayal as Roth Winkham’s true intentions come to light. The discovery that Winkham intended to double-cross Marlowe culminates in a showdown where both deceit and desperation collide, ultimately revealing the intricate web of motivations driving each character.

Philip Marlowe: "So it was you who killed Zip, huh?"
Timestamp: 23:27

Climactic Resolution

The episode reaches its climax with a final confrontation involving Akbar, who attempts to assert his claim over the Gold Cobra. Marlowe skillfully neutralizes the threat, ensuring the safety of Abigail Sieberg and bringing the culprits to justice. The resolution ties up the complex narrative threads, providing a satisfying conclusion to the intense investigation.

Philip Marlowe: "Most amazing thing I've ever seen."
Timestamp: 26:15

---

Character Analysis

Philip Marlowe

As the protagonist, Philip Marlowe embodies the quintessential detective—sharp, resourceful, and morally grounded. His interactions reveal a man committed to uncovering the truth, often navigating murky ethical waters to bring resolution. Marlowe’s ability to read people and situations underscores his effectiveness in solving intricate cases.

Philip Marlowe: "Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gutter of the prison of the grave."
Timestamp: 00:44

Roth Winkham

Initially appearing as a distressed friend seeking help, Roth Winkham’s character gradually unveils layers of deceit. His desperation to retrieve the Gold Cobra masks ulterior motives, ultimately positioning him as an antagonist driven by greed and betrayal.

Roth Winkham: "I intended you to be peacefully on your way to Chicago by now, with the Gold Cobra safely in tow."
Timestamp: 22:45

Abigail Sieberg

Abigail serves as a pivotal figure whose loyalty and true intentions are ambiguous until the latter part of the episode. Her relationship with Marlowe adds emotional depth, and her actions significantly impact the unfolding narrative.

Abigail Sieberg: "I spied on Zip. I found out about the gold cobra."
Timestamp: 18:08

Akbar

The enigmatic antagonist, Akbar, represents the classic villain driven by obsession. His fixation on the Gold Cobra and unwavering determination create a formidable obstacle for Marlowe, embodying the relentless pursuit of power at any cost.

Akbar: "I am prepared to do whatever I must do to accomplish this."
Timestamp: 21:21

---

Key Moments and Notable Quotes

• Marlowe’s Philosophy on Crime Philip Marlowe: "Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gutter of the prison of the grave."
  Timestamp: 00:44

• Introduction of the Gold Cobra Roth Winkham: "A cobra. A snake, sir. Made of 250 separate links, each some 2 inches in diameter, and each solid gold links."
  Timestamp: 05:04

• Marlowe’s Realization of Betrayal Philip Marlowe: "So it was you who killed Zip, huh?"
  Timestamp: 23:27

• Final Confrontation Philip Marlowe: "Most amazing thing I've ever seen."
  Timestamp: 26:15

---

Themes and Insights

Betrayal and Trust: Central to the narrative is the theme of betrayal, particularly illustrated by Roth Winkham’s duplicitous actions. Marlowe’s journey underscores the precarious nature of trust in the world of espionage and high-stakes theft.

Obsession and Greed: Akbar’s character epitomizes how obsession can drive individuals to moral bankruptcy. His relentless pursuit of the Gold Cobra highlights the destructive power of greed.

Moral Ambiguity: Marlowe often operates in morally gray areas, making tough decisions that question the fine line between right and wrong. This ambiguity adds depth to his character and the overall narrative.

The Allure of the Artifact: The Gold Cobra serves as a symbol of allure and desire, representing how valuable objects can fuel corruption and conflict.

---

Conclusion

The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Gold Cobra masterfully combines suspense, intricate plotting, and rich character development to deliver a quintessential detective story. Through Philip Marlowe’s sharp intellect and unwavering determination, listeners are taken on a thrilling journey through deception and danger. The episode not only entertains but also offers profound insights into human nature and the complexities of trust, making it a standout installment in the Choice Classic Radio Detectives series.

For old-time radio enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this episode exemplifies the enduring appeal of detective narratives and the timeless allure of classic radio storytelling.

---

Notable Advertisements Skipped:

• BlueChew Advertisement: Throughout the episode, advertisements for BlueChew and Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum are interspersed. These segments have been omitted to focus solely on the narrative content.

Transcript

[Advertiser]

The bedroom. Guys, that's one place it's better to do things the hard way. The easy part for guys is [e-mail] get chewables with the same active ingredients as Viagra or Cialis, but cheaper. Medical consultation, but no. Doctor's office prescriptions, but no pharmacy visit. Try a free month for just 5 bucks shipping. Using promo code [e-mail] Confidence delivered bluechew.com promo code yes. The easy way to do it the hard way. Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook.

[Philip Marlowe]

Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank.

[Advertiser]

You for donating at choice classicradio.com get.

[Philip Marlowe]

This and get it straight. Crime is a sucker's road and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison of the grave. There's no other end, but they never learn.

[Wrigley's Spearmint Gum Announcer]

Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. The refreshing, delicious treat that gives you chewing enjoyment presents for your listening enjoyment Raymond Chandler's most famous character in the Adventures of Philip Marlow. To make every day more enjoyable, treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. Here's a taste treat you can enjoy indoors, outdoors, at work or at play. The cool, long lasting mint flavor refreshes you. The smooth, steady chewing helps keep you fresh and alert. Adds enjoyment to whatever you're doing. Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. Healthful, refreshing, delicious. Now with Gerald Moore starred as Philip Marlow, the makers of Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum are glad to bring you tonight's exciting story. The Gold Cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

My mama done told me.

[Akbar]

Get it before, it's history. Hi, Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hiya, kid.

[Akbar]

Get up while it's hot.

[Philip Marlowe]

7Th Race Clothing Wall hey, mister, could.

[Jake]

You please help a blind man? Could you let me have a buck for my first square meal in a week?

[Philip Marlowe]

You mean your first shot in an hour, don't you, Jake? Huh?

[Jake]

Oh, Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Hi. How are you?

[Jake]

Sorry, I didn't recognize you. Must be these dark cheaters.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, must be. How's business, Jake?

[Jake]

Oh, I seen better. You too, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, sure.

[Jake]

You're just standing around here in front of your office for the fresh air, maybe? No, I. Oh, no, don't tell me that ain't it. I got it. You're making a rendezvous, a secret meeting, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, Jake, I'm just waiting for something.

[Akbar]

Holy catfish.

[Jake]

Look at that jerk out in the middle of traffic. The guy with the suitcase getting out of that cab right in the middle of the street. Hey, he's coming this way.

[Philip Marlowe]

And he acts like the guy I'm waiting for, suitcase and all. Here, Jake. Here's a starter on that meal. I'll see you. Goodbye.

[Jake]

I got you. So long, Mr. Marlow.

[Roth Winkham]

Thanks a million, sir. Tell me quickly. You're Mr. Marlow? Philip Mallow?

[Philip Marlowe]

That's right. You're Roth Winkham?

[Roth Winkham]

Correct, Mr. Mallow. Is your car nearby?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, right over there.

[Wrigley's Spearmint Gum Announcer]

Good.

[Roth Winkham]

Come, Mr. Marlowe. We've got to get out of here. My very life may be in danger. And have you been seen with me, sir? Yours as well. Quickly, Mr. Mallow. We must be off.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah. Well, this way. Mr. Winkham. My new client was right out of Charles Dickens, but I bit my lip and tried to play it straight. We piled into my car and took off. Mr. Winkham, his owl eyes glued to the rear window, watched and worried hard about whether we were being followed. But finally he was convinced that we were safe. He relaxed his grip on the suitcase and fumbled for a cigarette. Roth Winkham was maybe 50 and had a large bald head on a small, well dressed body that just couldn't sit still. Also, it was at least three to one that the gentleman had ulcers. He was the type.

[Roth Winkham]

Keep driving, please, Mr. Barlow. And do watch the rear view mirror.

[Philip Marlowe]

Okay.

[Roth Winkham]

Now, sir, what exactly did I say to you on the telephone?

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, you wanted me to fly to Chicago tonight with a suitcase that contained an item worth 20,000 bucks which was earmarked for some music.

[Roth Winkham]

Yes, the Asheville Museum.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. And you said something about an eccentric here in LA who owned the item. That's about all I caught. That and the fact that you were very worried.

[Roth Winkham]

And I still am. Now, first, Mr. Mallow, a word about the man who's found.

[Philip Marlowe]

First, Mr. Winkham, a word or two about the item itself. Huh? You know I can't afford to play carrier pigeon without so much as a peak. It's too much like leading with my chin. Now, what is it?

[Roth Winkham]

A gold cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

A gold what?

[Roth Winkham]

A cobra. A snake, sir. Made of 250 separate links, each some 2 inches in diameter, and each solid gold links.

[Philip Marlowe]

That makes the snake flexible like the real thing. Is that it?

[Roth Winkham]

Precisely. And the cobra's hood, Mr. Marlowe, is spun gold.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh.

[Roth Winkham]

Originally, the object was a ceremonial piece that comes from India, from a kingdom that no longer exists. Mordecai Ziff bought it there several years ago.

[Philip Marlowe]

Mordecai Ziff?

[Roth Winkham]

Yes.

[Philip Marlowe]

He's the eccentric who lives here in la.

[Roth Winkham]

Well, Perhaps intellectual is more the proper term. He lives near here in the Hollywood Hills. And he is the one who is presenting the Cobra to the museum.

[Philip Marlowe]

I see. Well, tell me, what's your connection, Mr. Wickham?

[Roth Winkham]

I am a friend, Mr. Mallow. Mordecai and I studied together in Europe many years ago.

[Philip Marlowe]

Really?

[Roth Winkham]

We have remained fast companions through the years. And now that his health is failing. He is a man of 60. I wish very strongly to repay his kindnesses, but I need your help to do it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Well, that brings us to the party following you. Who's that?

[Roth Winkham]

A creature named Agbar. Mr. Ma. Yes. He's an East Indian and he wants the Cobra badly. That's all I know of him. Except, sir, that he has no claim morally or legally. He's merely a fanatic.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, well, that's not to be sneered at. It's a full time job. Tell me, what does this Akbar look like?

[Roth Winkham]

Well, he's thin, he's dark skinned, vicious, cold eyes. You'll have to be on the. Mr. Barlow. Behind us, sir. That taxicab we're being followed to get.

[Philip Marlowe]

Drive. Drive.

[Roth Winkham]

Sir.

[Philip Marlowe]

You see who it is?

[Roth Winkham]

No, but it could be Ackbar. Try to lose him.

[Philip Marlowe]

That's exactly what I'm trying to do. The Cobra's in the suitcase here, right?

[Roth Winkham]

No, this suitcase is empty. The decoy. The gold Cobra is in a similar bag that has been checked at the Beachwood Plaza hotel. Turn again, Mr. Mallow. The cab is guinning right now, sir. This envelope contains the claim check for the bag, as well as your airline ticket to Chicago. Also, there's $100 bill included. And you'll get another one when we meet tomorrow night in Chicago. I'll look for you at the Dearborn street station at 8:00. He's still with us, Mr. Barlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

And that's a red light ahead we can't slip through.

[Roth Winkham]

Then it's time for me to go. And time for Agbar to follow me. Me and the empty bag. Good luck, Mr. Mallow. I'm counting on you, sir.

[Philip Marlowe]

By the time the light had changed, the spry Roth Winkham had already made it to the sidewalk, the empty suitcase conspicuously in hand. And when my rear view mirror showed the cab had given up the chase, I figured the quantity known as Ackbar had taken the bait and followed Wincomb. All of which made my next stop the check room at the Beachwood Plaza Hotel.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Yes, sir. What'll it. Well, hello. Can I be of some assistance?

[Philip Marlowe]

Maybe. I wouldn't be surprised but at the moment, I just want my suitcase. Here, honey. It's a black bag.

[Abigail Sieberg]

A black bag?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Steve. Oh, here we are. Number 4, 5, 11. Number 4, 5, 11 comes out even. Must be yours, all right.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, it must be. Thanks, baby. Here. Small token of my appre. Oh.

[Abigail Sieberg]

What's the matter, handsome? Your wife just waltz in?

[Philip Marlowe]

No wife. Just trouble. Goodbye, princess. My first glance at the man standing in the hotel entrance was almost enough. A lot of people could have jet black, unruly hair on top of a flywheel, but very few people had that kind of wild, sparkling eyes. They were reserved for fanatics named Akbar. When he spotted me and started coming in a hurry, it was time for me and the suitcase to head for the nearest exit. I took a side door just beyond the check room, and from there ran the length of the narrow, twisting corridor that led to the rear of the hotel and out to the alley where I parked my car. There, I ducked behind a pile of trash cans, slipped my hand over the.38 in my shoulder holster and waited. But after a full minute went by, I figured that it was safe to go to my car. And it would have been, if the striking redhead crouched on the seat inside hadn't been holding an also striking pistol just made for ladies.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Don't bother getting in the car, Mr. Marlow. In fact, don't do anything but hand over that suitcase here on the seat.

[Philip Marlowe]

Your mind's made up, huh?

[Abigail Sieberg]

Definitely. And keep your hands at your sides. Now, let me have those keys you're holding. Come on, toss them here. Now turn around. Thank you. I'm glad you're cooperative.

[Philip Marlowe]

Don't mention it. It's your winning smile. Anything else?

[Abigail Sieberg]

Yes. Walk in the direction you're facing. Go on.

[Philip Marlowe]

Walk it is, baby. But first, tell me, who do I see for my car?

[Abigail Sieberg]

Don't worry. It'll be returned safe and sound.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. What about the suitcase? It's got all the clothes I have in it.

[Roth Winkham]

Oh, sure.

[Abigail Sieberg]

You look so fetching in gold Cobra, don't you? Good night, Mr. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

The shock of fire red hair gunned my car the length of the alley and then swerved on two wheels into the busy street beyond and was gone. I followed to the end of the alley and started walking toward the hotel. And I saw something else. It was Akbar running toward a hack stand. He had also seen my car disappear, and that obviously meant that he wanted the first cab in line to take him someplace in a hurry. But the driver was waiting for a fare, which forced him to the only other cab in line and almost gave me time to get to it. Almost, but not quite. That left only an outside chance that Ackbar had tossed an address to the driver before he knew that the cab was taken. Yeah, but it was an outside chance that paid off. Yeah, sure.

[Jake]

He gave me your address, pal. Even though I had the flag down. I got an old doll inside.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, listen, friend, this counts. What was that address? Come on, the right answer's worth 10 to you. I saw the same. Here. Here. All right, what was it?

[Jake]

Let me think, pal.

[Philip Marlowe]

Now, hold on.

[Jake]

I got it. Outpost road number 818, I think.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah.

[Jake]

818 Outpost Road.

[Philip Marlowe]

818 Hollywood Hills. Huh?

[Jake]

Someone up there you know, pal?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, it could be. Get moving. 818 Outpost Road.

[Jake]

Pal, I already told you.

[Philip Marlowe]

I already heard you. There's another 10 in it. And let's forget the old doll. Come on, bust a roll.

[Jake]

Well, pal, a corner mansion there is 800 outp. So this next job must be. It looks like the Taj Mahal joint.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, that plus enough grounds to build a ballpark, grandstand included. I'll get out here, take the driveway on foot.

[Jake]

Okay, pal, whatever you say. Hey, you want me to wait?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, you better. No, no. I think I see my own car up there. Here's the 10. Thanks.

[Jake]

Okay, pal, so long. Hey, give my love to the Roger, huh?

[Philip Marlowe]

Brother, what a backdrop for a harem. 50 beautiful girls.

[Akbar]

50 kindly stand just where you are. Its rifle is loaded and the safety not on.

[Philip Marlowe]

It was hard to believe at the top, a genuine African pith helmet. And under that, a pudgy, cherubic smiling face with red roses for cheeks and dimples an inch deep and the rest fit too. A round little body dressed in a khaki shirt, riding britches and polished leather boots. Happy of the seven dwarfs and jungle. Get up there. The individualism ended because, like everybody else I'd met tonight, his interest was in the COBRA exclusively.

[Akbar]

Now, Mr. Whoever you are, where is that snake?

[Philip Marlowe]

Have you tried the grass? I understand snakes love it.

[Akbar]

This is not the time to jest. There's nothing funny about that cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not unless 20,000 bucks happen to tickle your funny bone.

[Akbar]

For the last time, where is the cobra?

[Philip Marlowe]

The truth, okay, the truth. Frankly, my friend, I haven't the slightest idea. Honest, I haven't. Happy? Folded up on one punch like it was built on hinges, I headed for the Taj Mahal on a run. But when I was past my car and had gone the slippery length of a tiled porch that led to a pair of half open etched Glass doors. I slowed to a walk at the sight of a single light that came from a beaded lamp in a room inside. Then I came to a full stop. The room was about the size of a basketball court with plush decor that was strictly far east. An elderly man wearing a bright yellow satin robe and also bright yellow satin turban was stretched out, glassy eyes staring at the ceiling. The front of his robe an ugly blood stainless. Beside him was the lady with the red hair, and next to her, the suitcase that wouldn't stay put. It was a good time for me and my.38 to announce ourselves. Well, this certainly outclasses the alley, doesn't it, Red? And now it's your turn to keep your hands at your sides.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Well, what do you want here, Marlow?

[Philip Marlowe]

Did you kill him?

[Abigail Sieberg]

No. Oh, no, I didn't. Believe me, I didn't. I hated Mordecai. As if. But I wouldn't do this.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, of course not. How could I even think of it? You only stick up people in alleys, steal cars, walk off with gold. Lucky pieces worth 20 grand or better. Huh, Marlow?

[Abigail Sieberg]

I didn't do this. My gun hasn't even been fired. Here, look.

[Philip Marlowe]

Don't try it, Red. I'll look when I'm ready. First I want to make sure the gold Cobra is still intact.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Of course it is. I never let it out of my hands.

[Philip Marlowe]

We'll see. Stay right where you are, baby. No movement. I can unlock this with one hand and cover you with the other. Okay. Now we'll know if the Cobras.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Look.

[Philip Marlowe]

Look out, Marlow.

[Abigail Sieberg]

It's real. A Cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

Steady.

[Roth Winkham]

Steady.

[Philip Marlowe]

Red, don't move.

[Roth Winkham]

No.

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, baby. You shouldn't have killed the lights. That makes the next move. The Cobras. And my gun's worthless.

[Otis Crumpler]

231. That's the average number of apps used by many companies. This leads to a lot of context and tab switching that drains employee focus and costs your company. Grammarly can help. Grammarly's AI works in over 500,000 apps and websites, making it easy for your team to write clearly and on brand without disrupting workflow. Join 70,000 teams who save an average of $5,000 per employee per year using Grammarly. Go to Grammarly.com enterprise to learn.

[Wrigley's Spearmint Gum Announcer]

To make every day more enjoyable. Treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint chewing Gum. The lively, full bodied, real mint flavor cools your mouth, moistens your throat, freshens your taste. And the chewing itself gives you a little lift, helps you keep going at your best. So for Real chewing enjoyment that's refreshing and long lasting. Always keep Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum handed, healthful, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Gum will make every day more enjoyable. Now with our star, Gerald Moore, the second act of Philip Marlow and tonight's exciting story, the Gold Cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

We got one good look at a live cobra rearing up out of the suitcase, its hood distended, flicking its glossy, forked tongue before the only lamp in the room shattered on the floor in a blue flash and total darkness surged in. For an endless moment, there was silence, as soft and thick as black velvet. Then we heard it. The snake was moving. We listened to it crawl slowly out of the suitcase, ease itself across the table and slither to the floor.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Marlo. Marlow. It's coming toward us.

[Philip Marlowe]

Stand still, baby. Freeze. Don't move a muscle.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I. I can't do it, Marlo.

[Philip Marlowe]

It's her only chance. Do you hear me? No matter what happens, don't move.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Marlow, I'm. I'm getting dizzy. I'm afraid I'm going to pass.

[Philip Marlowe]

No, baby, hang on.

[Akbar]

Hang on.

[Philip Marlowe]

I tell you. No. Red, listen to me. Listen to me.

[Akbar]

Talk.

[Philip Marlowe]

Start talking. Don't stop, but talk softly.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I, I.

[Philip Marlowe]

Who are you, Red? Tell me, what's your real name? Tell me. Tell me.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Abby. Abigail Sieber.

[Philip Marlowe]

All right. Who killed Ziff? Abby.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Hi.

[Philip Marlowe]

Who was it? Come on, answer me. Answer me. Keep talking.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I don't know, Marlow. I. I told you the truth.

[Philip Marlowe]

Why did you come here to Ziff's place?

[Abigail Sieberg]

He swindled my aunt Marcel out of all her money before she died.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Money that was supposed to come to me.

[Philip Marlowe]

Swindler Howe.

[Abigail Sieberg]

He was a mentalist. Yeah, fake mind reader and fortune teller. He told her lies that made her keep giving him money until there was nothing left.

[Philip Marlowe]

Eddie, girl. Keep it up, baby, keep it up. Why did you take that suitcase away from me at the hotel? Answer me, Abby.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Think.

[Philip Marlowe]

Come on.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I spied on Zip. I found out about the gold cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I knew if I once cut my hands on it, I could force Zip to return the money. He tricked my and out.

[Philip Marlowe]

Keep talking.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Oh, Marlo, I can't. I can't stand it. That awkward.

[Philip Marlowe]

Quiet, quiet. Listen.

[Advertiser]

Hey guys, don't take my word that Bluechew can get things going in the bedroom. Take hers. And hers.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Uh huh.

[Advertiser]

And hers.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Oh yeah.

[Advertiser]

Go to bluechew.com right now and meet online with a licensed medical provider. If you qualify, Bluechew will give you a free Month's supply of chewables with the same active ingredients as Viagra or cialis for just $5 shipping. Visit bluechew.com and use the promo code. Yes. For this amazing deal. Got it. Get it. Bluechew.com promo code. Yes.

[Abigail Sieberg]

There's someone in here.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah. Who's there? Who is it? He made it out the door.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Cobra struck at him. Marlo.

[Philip Marlowe]

Sounded like it was clear across the room from us. Now look. Abby. Abby, stay where you are. Don't move. I'm gonna see if I can find a light switch on the wall. Stand real still, Abby. You hear anything?

[Abigail Sieberg]

No. Hurry, Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Please believe me, baby, I am. There ought to be a switch here someplace. There's gotta be a switch. Yeah. Yeah, here it is.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Thank heaven. It's light again.

[Philip Marlowe]

Where's that cobra?

[Abigail Sieberg]

I don't see it, Marlowe.

[Philip Marlowe]

We better spot it. That thing's loaded with sudden death.

[Abigail Sieberg]

It's not here. I tell you. It's gone, Marlowe.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, I guess you're right for the time being. But in case it comes back, you better keep that gun handy.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Where are you going?

[Philip Marlowe]

After the guy who beat it through that door. Right now it pays to be ahead of the game. But not too far ahead, Abby. Do you understand?

[Abigail Sieberg]

Yes. At this point, mister, I'll do anything you say.

[Philip Marlowe]

All right, then wait here for me and keep your eyes open wide. This Cobra is not the only killer loose in this joint. The door opened into a long pass that offered as much chance to duck for cover as the inside of a loaded cannon barrel. And it was so narrow that if the cobra had found its way out there, it would be within kissing distance when we passed. The hair on my neck remained at rigid attention while I edged along the hall toward a dim light at the end that came from a heavily draped green waiting room. In the center, facing halfway from me, was Akbar, the tousle haired East Indian. His face was even grayer than before and his hand trembled as he mopped his glistening forehead with a silk handkerchief. When I stepped in, he saw me from the corner of his eye. His face went stony. Only his right hand moved. It dived under his jacket for a weapon, but I brought my gun down hard on the point of his shoulder. John went limp with a knife as wicked as the back end of a scorpion bounced across the floor.

[Akbar]

The dog. You'll pay for this interference.

[Philip Marlowe]

Not on the installment plan, buster. We're gonna settle up right now. How come the live cobra in the suitcase you're so anxious about?

[Akbar]

The fiendish trick.

[Philip Marlowe]

And in the dark, it almost caught you, didn't it?

[Roth Winkham]

True.

[Akbar]

But fortune smiled and the cobra missed.

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, but fortune's a fickle lady, Buster. Come on, talk it up. Just what are you trying to promote?

[Akbar]

The return of this sacred Gold Cobra to its rightful place. The temple of my ancestors and India. The blasphemy perpetrated by Mordecai Ziff will end only in the restoration of the Gold Cobra. And I am prepared to do whatever I must do to accomplish this. Even to paying money for it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Or killing.

[Akbar]

Or killing. Death is transitory and therefore inconsequential.

[Philip Marlowe]

Well, the Homicide Bureau has other ideas, Elephant boy, so maybe we better ju. I hate to leave you alone, Akbar, but you're better off in the long run. I watched just long enough to see Akbar melt toward the floor. Then I ran back along the narrow corridor to where I'd left Abby. When I stepped in the door, I stopped cold. She was facing me from across the room, her eyes wide with fear, her mouth still twisted from a scream. Directly behind her was an opening in what should have been a blank wall. And inside it, staring out with fixed, hypnotic eyes, was a coiled cobra. Only this one was solid, gleaming gold. I started toward Abbey, but I stopped again because there was a gun in my back.

[Roth Winkham]

That's quite far enough. Marlow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Ross. Wynkham. What is this?

[Roth Winkham]

You aren't going to like it, Marlowe. Not one bit. Give me your gun. Give it to me.

[Philip Marlowe]

Get it yourself.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I wanted to warn you, Marlow, but he said he'd shoot me. He took my gun, too.

[Philip Marlowe]

Come on, Winkham. Why the switch?

[Roth Winkham]

Believe me, Marlowe, when I hired you tonight, I expected a much less bizarre ending to all this. I intended you to be peacefully on your way to Chicago by now, with the Gold Cobra safely in tow.

[Philip Marlowe]

Still just a favor for a friend?

[Roth Winkham]

Not exactly. That part was a small lie. Mordecai Ziff was my partner.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Your partner?

[Roth Winkham]

Yes, my dear. When we felt it was time to move east again, I decided to break away from Mordecai and keep the Gold Cobra for myself alone.

[Philip Marlowe]

But I needed help because a fanatic named Akbar turned up who had his eye on the cobra, too.

[Roth Winkham]

Get over into that empty cart of both of you. Go on. Get over there. Move.

[Philip Marlowe]

Take it easy.

[Abigail Sieberg]

No tricks with the pottery mine you shoved him into. Never mind.

[Roth Winkham]

Leave that vase alone. Get back in the corner.

[Philip Marlowe]

So it was you who killed Zip, huh?

[Roth Winkham]

I hated him for every one of a million indignities I've suffered at his hands. As soon As I was sure you'd picked up the gold cobra, I came back here and I killed him.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I just finished it when I got here.

[Roth Winkham]

Yes, young lady, I didn't know about you, but I managed to get out of here before you blundered in with that empty suitcase.

[Philip Marlowe]

Empty suitcase? That's what you think.

[Roth Winkham]

That's what I mean. They're on the table. Empty as it has been from the outset. Just as empty as the decoy I used. Obviously, Mordecai suspected my intentions to steal the gold cobra after all.

[Philip Marlowe]

It was a bit more than that, Wink. I'm honest. Oh, what a cozy pair of chums you and Zip must have been in. You really don't know what he put in that bag, do you?

[Roth Winkham]

What are you talking about?

[Philip Marlowe]

Ziff had a surprise. All set for you, Wincom. It was Marlowe.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Look. The snake. It's coming out of that vase.

[Philip Marlowe]

Holy smoke. Wake him. There's a live cobra behind you.

[Roth Winkham]

I don't blame you.

[Philip Marlowe]

Listen to me, will you, Marlow?

[Roth Winkham]

Oh, that's such an old stunt.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Stay back, Marlowe.

[Philip Marlowe]

Wake up. Kill it, I tell you. It's right behind.

[Akbar]

Stop it.

[Roth Winkham]

You're only wasting time. No, no, no, no. I bitten.

[Abigail Sieberg]

I bitten. I bitten.

[Akbar]

I bit him.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Oh, no.

[Philip Marlowe]

He's out and it's no help, baby. That thing's still between us and his gun. Get behind me. Get behind me. Back in the corner, Marlow.

[Abigail Sieberg]

We're trapped. We can't get past it.

[Philip Marlowe]

Get back, will you? Maybe I can throw my coat over it long enough.

[Akbar]

Hey. Anybody here? What's the matter?

[Philip Marlowe]

Oh, it's the jerk in the pith helmet. Hey, you. Over here.

[Akbar]

What in the world's going on anyway?

[Philip Marlowe]

Get over here with that rifle, will you? Hurry.

[Akbar]

What's the meaning of all the. Birdie. Good heavens. My cobra.

[Philip Marlowe]

Kill it, will you? Shoot.

[Akbar]

Quiet. You're in a spot, folks. No, Folan, she's got you within striking distance, so don't move. Just stand still, very still. Come on, birdie. Birdie. Now. Now, come on. Take a look at the end of the rifle, birdie. See the hole? That's it in the end. Fascinates you, doesn't it? The ditty, folks. Don't move. Keep looking at the little hole in the rifle, birdie. That's right. Now back up. Back up. That's the way into the sack, birdie. Little more. Now put your head in like a good girl. Ha. That does it. Now we've got you safe and sound in the sack.

[Philip Marlowe]

Whoever you are, brother, you're a genius.

[Akbar]

Crumpler's the name. Otis Crumpler. Snakes are my business.

[Philip Marlowe]

Most amazing thing I've ever seen.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Yes, the most amazing thing.

[Philip Marlowe]

Abby. Abby.

[Akbar]

Why, she's fainted. Well, what's wrong? Was she bitten?

[Philip Marlowe]

No. No, but I know what she means. Look, if you don't mind, Crumpler, I think I'll sit down myself right here. Well, when the police finally moved in, they gave the degenerate Taj Mahal a long once over, and we adjourned for more questions and answers to the hospital where Abby Seberg was getting a nerve back and Ackbar was nursing the split scalp I'd given him. And while Otis Crumpler and I waited for the word, downstairs in the coffee shop, Roth winkum, my client was busy dying of cobra venom in spite of Crumpler's best efforts.

[Akbar]

Well, that's the way it is with cobras, Mr. Marlow. Sometimes there's just nothing you can do. Sugar?

[Philip Marlowe]

No, thanks. No, he had it coming. Otis.

[Akbar]

Oh, both of them did. Mordecai's if was a slimy sore, too. He'd been snooping around my snake farm for several days. And then tonight, when Birdie turned up missing from a cage, I just knew that he was behind it someway. But I couldn't figure why. Anybody want to steal a cobra, you know what I mean?

[Philip Marlowe]

Yeah, yeah, vaguely.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Bill. Phil. Guess what?

[Philip Marlowe]

Why? Oh, Abigail Seberg is well enough for coffee. Sit down.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Oh, it's better than that. The police think there's a good chance that Akbar will be able to buy the gold cobra and I will get the money. How do you like that?

[Philip Marlowe]

I like it fine. Where are we going to spend it?

[Abigail Sieberg]

Oh, well, I know a certain kind of snake bite remedy I'd like to try right now. I think we deserve it, mister. It comes in bottles. And they. They call it scotch.

[Akbar]

Oh, no, not whiskey. Oh, not for snake bite. Oh, no. That's the very worst thing you could do. You see, it stimulates the heart and makes the blood go faster. And that.

[Abigail Sieberg]

And that, Mr. Crumpler, is exactly the idea. Come on, Phil.

[Philip Marlowe]

You know, there are many things that can lead to romance. Usually it's moonlight. Sometimes it's a bit of a song. But whoever heard of a snake playing Cupid? Yeah, well, there was a snake in the Garden of Eden. Yeah, but come to think of it, he kicked up quite a fuss.

[Abigail Sieberg]

Bill?

[Philip Marlowe]

Hmm?

[Abigail Sieberg]

What are you thinking?

[Philip Marlowe]

Snakes. What are you thinking?

[Abigail Sieberg]

Apples.

[Wrigley's Spearmint Gum Announcer]

Remember, friends, to make every day more enjoyable. Treat yourself often to refreshing, delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. There's lots of cooling, real mint flavor in every stick, and chewing Wrigley Spearmint helps you keep feeling fresh and alert. You feel better, work better, get more fun out of doing things. So indoors, outdoors, wherever you go, keep some healthful, refreshing Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum handy to make every day more enjoyable. Treat yourself often to delicious Wrigley Spearmint Chewing Gum. The Adventures of Philip Marlow presented by Wrigley's Spearmint Gum bring you Raymond Chandler's most famous character and star, Gerald Moore. Philip Marlow is produced and directed by Norman MacDonald and written for radio by Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt. Featured in the cast were Howard McNear, Lynn Allen Wilms Herbert Lou Krugman, Bill Lally and Michael Ann Barrett. The special music is composed and conducted by Richard Arrived, the makers of Wrigley's Spearmint Chewing Gum. Hope you enjoyed tonight's Adventure of Philip Marlow and that you're enjoying Wrigley Spearmint Gum every day. We invite you to be with us next week when Philip Marlow says, this.

[Philip Marlowe]

Time I caught a killer on a lonely pelican's roost. It took a fistfight on the sidewalk, a Flyway drummer with an ice pick in his back and a vicious meeting on a yacht to do it. That plus the color of a girl's hair.

[Wrigley's Spearmint Gum Announcer]

This is Bob Stevenson speaking and this is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.