Summary of "The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Prodigal Panda Caper"
Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Prodigal Panda Caper
Release Date: May 10, 2025
Introduction
In the December 29, 1950 episode titled "The Prodigal Panda Caper," listeners are plunged into a classic Sam Spade mystery infused with unique twists involving a beloved panda bear. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this episode masterfully blends suspense, humor, and the quintessential charm of old-time radio detective stories.
Main Characters
- Sam Spade: The astute and determined private detective at the center of the investigation.
- Effie: Sam's resourceful assistant, who plays a crucial role in unraveling the mystery.
- Lieutenant Dundee: A persistent police officer working alongside Sam to solve the case.
- Roby Dozier: An 8-year-old boy whose stolen panda bear sets the mystery in motion.
- Dr. Kempthorne: A suspicious character connected to the criminal activities.
- Scarlet Townsend: The enigmatic "dragon lady" implicated in the case.
- Lenny Fleagle: An ex-con involved in the illegal dealings surrounding the panda bears.
Plot Summary
The Case Begins
The episode opens with Effie informing Sam about a peculiar case involving a stolen panda bear belonging to a young boy named Roby Dozier. Roby's father, having collected junk money, bought the panda bear from Lacy's Department Store as a surprise for his five-year-old son, Barney. However, the bear was swiftly stolen by a duo dressed in a checkered coat and a red silk dress. Roby recounts the harrowing incident, stating:
Roby Dozier [05:00]: "It's not mine really. I bought it for my little brother, Barney. ...And right away the man in the checkered coat ran up and grabbed at my panda bear."
Investigation Unfolds
Effie takes charge, deciding to handle the case herself while ensuring Roby is sent home safely. She visits Lacy's Department Store to gather information about the stolen panda bears. Here, Effie discovers that all 25 large panda bears had been sold unusually quickly, raising suspicions about the new employee, Ms. Greenbrier.
Effie [08:07]: "But would you believe it, sir? This afternoon all 25 were sold."
Effie’s inquiries lead her to uncover that Ms. Greenbrier, who appeared ill, was found dead at the store, initially ruled as a natural heart attack. However, further inspection by Lieutenant Dundee reveals:
Lieutenant Dundee [18:02]: "Yeah. No heart attack. She was poisoned."
Connecting the Dots
The investigation points towards Dr. Kempthorne and his chauffeur, Lenny Fleagle, an ex-con with a shady past. Effie discovers that the stolen panda bear was part of a larger scheme involving money hidden within the bears, intended for illicit transfers. The plot thickens when Effie finds a red convertible associated with the crime, leading her to confront Dr. Kempthorne.
Effie [21:08]: "Well, you're improving. Who's the buyer?"
Lieutenant Dundee [25:00]: "I fixed that thing for Castella myself after we took the dough out. What kid? It's got a bomb in it."
Climactic Confrontation
Effie devises a plan to recover the stolen panda bear, which contains the hidden money and potentially a bomb. She collaborates with Lieutenant Dundee and the police to track down Lenny Fleagle. A tense showdown ensues in an alley, where Effie successfully retrieves the panda and apprehends Fleagle, revealing the depth of the criminal operation.
Effie [27:03]: "What's it worth? Legal? 50,000. A hundred little kids. Got it?"
Resolution
With the panda recovered and the culprits apprehended, Effie ensures that Roby gets his beloved bear back. The episode concludes on a heartwarming note as Effie delivers the panda to Roby, reaffirming the triumph of good over nefarious schemes.
Effie [30:22]: "Happy New Year."
Notable Quotes
- Roby Dozier [05:00]: "It's not mine really. I bought it for my little brother, Barney."
- Effie [08:07]: "This afternoon all 25 were sold."
- Lieutenant Dundee [18:02]: "Yeah. No heart attack. She was poisoned."
- Sam Spade [25:00]: "I hope Roby appreciates you."
- Effie [30:22]: "Happy New Year."
Conclusion
"The Prodigal Panda Caper" showcases Sam Spade's unwavering determination to solve even the most unusual cases. Through Effie's ingenuity and the collaborative efforts with Lieutenant Dundee, the mystery of the stolen panda bear is deftly unraveled. This episode not only provides listeners with gripping detective work but also emphasizes themes of loyalty, courage, and the importance of community support. Perfect for old-time radio enthusiasts, this adventure exemplifies the timeless allure of Sam Spade's detective prowess.