The Adventures of Sam Spade: Biddle Riddle Caper – Detailed Summary

Episode Overview

The Adventures of Sam Spade: Biddle Riddle Caper is a captivating installment from the Golden Age of Radio, brought to life by Choice Classic Radio. Released on May 17, 2025, this episode plunges listeners into the intricate investigation led by the iconic private detective, Sam Spade, as he unravels the mysterious murder of Carol Stevens. Set against the backdrop of 1950s San Francisco, the episode masterfully weaves suspense, sharp dialogue, and classic detective work to keep audiences engaged from start to finish.

The Case Unveiled

The episode kicks off with Sam Spade being approached by Tracy Abbott, the editor and producer of Olympic Radio Productions. Abbott presents Spade with a compelling challenge: uncover the truth behind the unsolved murder of Carol Stevens, informally dubbed San Francisco's "Black Dahlia." With a hefty reward of $50,000 for information leading to the killer's conviction, Spade is tasked with solving the Biddle Riddle Caper within a tight 24-hour window.

Notable Quote:

Tracy Abbott [06:08]: "You have 24 hours to find a man for me."

The Investigation Begins

Sam Spade dives into the case by revisiting the crime scene—the apartment of Carol Stevens. He meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to her demise, noting key details such as the use of a bronze bookend as the murder weapon and the inconsistent alibi provided by Jimmy Biddle, the doorman at the Broadway Burlesque.

As Spade interviews Joseph P. Norgaard, a prominent criminal lawyer, he uncovers discrepancies in Biddle's alibi. Norgaard reveals that Biddle had been drinking Old Fashioneds on the night of the murder, yet maintain his innocence, stating, "I don't know where he is now, and I don't know who killed Carol Stevens" (Joseph P. Norgaard, 10:59).

Notable Quote:

Sam Spade [07:03]: "She'd taken her last turn under the blue spot around 10:30, left the theater and hustled straight home."

Key Discoveries and Twists

Spade's relentless pursuit leads him to interact with various characters, including Rosalie, the landlady at Biddle's last known address. Rosalie provides Spade with crucial information about Biddle's activities post-murder, specifically his employment at the Pacific Ballroom. However, she remains tight-lipped about Biddle's whereabouts, hinting at deeper complexities in the case.

In a pivotal moment, Spade discovers a tape recorder in Biddle's apartment containing an incomplete confession. Realizing that Joseph P. Norgaard tampered with the recording, Spade deciphers the missing pieces by analyzing the discrepancies in the time stamps and the number of chimes heard during the murder. This leads him to a breakthrough in identifying inconsistencies in the alibi.

Notable Quote:

Sam Spade [29:01]: "Why, sweetheart, that's self-explanatory. The clock said 4, you see. But it was 12. It'll have been dead an hour, which makes it 11. Carry one 1. Subtracting 4 from that leaves 7."

The Confession and Conclusion

The climax unfolds as Sam Spade confronts the manipulated tape recording. He skillfully identifies the alterations made by Norgaard, revealing that the supposed confession was a manufactured cover-up. The true confession of Jimmy Biddle emerges, where he admits to murdering Carol Stevens out of jealousy and tiredness of his deceitful lifestyle.

In a dramatic turn, Spade exposes Norgaard's involvement in tampering with evidence to protect the real perpetrator. This revelation leads to the arrest of both Norgaard and Pinstripe, ensuring that justice is served for Carol Stevens.

Notable Quote:

Sam Spade [27:25]: "He should have studied up on his tape recorders, baby. With a pair of scissors and a good technician, Jimmy's eyewitness account turned into a first-class confession."

Character Insights

• Sam Spade: The quintessential private detective, Spade embodies intelligence, perseverance, and a keen eye for detail. His methodical approach and unwavering determination drive the investigation forward.

• Tracy Abbott: As the producer and editor, Abbott plays a pivotal role in guiding Spade through the investigation, balancing professional demands with the unfolding mystery.

• Joseph P. Norgaard: A seemingly respectable lawyer, Norgaard's involvement reveals the pervasive corruption and lengths to which individuals will go to conceal the truth.

• Rosalie: The landlady serves as a critical informant, offering Spade valuable insights while maintaining an air of mystery surrounding her knowledge of the case.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Tracy Abbott [06:08]: "You have 24 hours to find a man for me."

• Sam Spade [07:03]: "She'd taken her last turn under the blue spot around 10:30, left the theater and hustled straight home."

• Sam Spade [29:01]: "Why, sweetheart, that's self-explanatory. The clock said 4, you see. But it was 12. It'll have been dead an hour, which makes it 11. Carry one 1. Subtracting 4 from that leaves 7."

• Sam Spade [27:25]: "He should have studied up on his tape recorders, baby. With a pair of scissors and a good technician, Jimmy's eyewitness account turned into a first-class confession."

• Joseph P. Norgaard [10:59]: "I heard from someone who said he was Biddle. He also said he knew who killed."

Conclusion

The Adventures of Sam Spade: Biddle Riddle Caper stands out as a testament to classic detective storytelling. Through intricate plotting, dynamic character interactions, and sharp dialogue, the episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to engage in the mystery alongside Sam Spade. By meticulously piecing together clues and exposing deceit, Spade ensures that justice prevails, leaving audiences satisfied with the resolution of Carol Stevens' tragic fate.

For old-time radio enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the art of radio detective fiction, underscored by timeless themes of truth, justice, and the relentless pursuit of answers.