The Adventures of Sam Spade: The String of Death Caper 02/02/1951

Summary

Summary of "The Adventures of Sam Spade: The String of Death Caper"

Episode Release Date: June 14, 2025

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Introduction

"The Adventures of Sam Spade: The String of Death Caper" is a classic episode from the iconic detective series featuring the suave and cunning private investigator, Sam Spade. This episode, originally aired on February 2, 1951, intricately weaves a tale of deceit, murder, and priceless treasures, encapsulating the essence of old-time radio detective dramas.

Plot Overview

A Troubling Discovery

The episode opens with Sam Spade being confronted by Effie, his loyal assistant, about the recent spate of murders drawing media attention (02:07). Effie informs Sam about the grim discoveries marked by a "dotted line running from U to X," indicating the locations where bodies were found. Sam reveals his frustration with the ongoing murders, hinting at a deeper conspiracy behind them (02:24).

Enter Olga Kelly

The plot thickens when a mysterious woman, Olga Kelly, visits Sam's detective agency (03:04). Dressed in flashy attire, she shares her dire circumstances—having lost her dance team's earnings and her partner, Ricardo, under suspicious conditions (05:03). Olga seeks Sam's help to locate Captain Eric Nostran, an army man who holds valuable information.

The Pearl of Death

Sam delves into the mystery of the six beautiful rose-colored pearls that Captain Nostran possesses. These pearls, originating from the Toy Toy Oyster Banks off the Bonio Islands, are rumored to be cursed, with eight deaths already linked to them (10:07). As Sam investigates, he encounters Chan Lee, a pearl expert who dismisses the authenticity of the pearls (14:13). However, upon verifying their genuineness with a trusted jeweler, the plot takes a darker turn.

Confrontations and Revelations

Sam faces multiple confrontations, including an intimidating encounter with Jacques Malraux, who claims ownership of the pearls and seeks their return (21:00). As tensions escalate, Sam discovers that the pearls have supernatural implications, leading to a deadly chase through San Francisco's waterfront. The climax unfolds with Sam eliminating the antagonist, Jacques Malraux, ensuring the cursed pearls meet their end in the sewer, thus resolving the string of deaths (28:07).

Key Characters

• Sam Spade (02:07): The seasoned private detective at the heart of the story, navigating through layers of mystery and danger with his characteristic wit and resilience.

• Effie (02:07): Sam's devoted assistant, providing critical support and insights throughout the investigation.

• Olga Kelly (03:04): A desperate former dance team member seeking Sam's help to locate Captain Nostran and unravel the mystery surrounding the cursed pearls.

• Captain Eric Nostran (09:07): The elusive figure connected to the cursed pearls, whose interactions with Olga Kelly propel the narrative forward.

• Chan Lee (12:32): A pearl expert whose initial skepticism adds complexity to the investigation.

• Jacques Malraux (20:48): The primary antagonist obsessed with reclaiming the cursed pearls, whose menacing presence intensifies the peril surrounding Sam Spade.

Notable Quotes

• Effie to Sam Spade: "You don't have to accept it as just another part of aging." (00:00)

• Sam Spade on the Murder Setup: "It was a murder setup from beginning to end." (24:14)

• Jacques Malraux's Threat: "If you deceive me, you will find to your regret that Jacques Malraux is not an easy man to do business with." (22:27)

• Sam Spade's Determination: "I don't really know who these pearls do belong to. And I don't care much anymore." (28:10)

Themes and Insights

The Allure and Peril of Wealth

The cursed pearls symbolize the intoxicating allure of wealth and the lengths individuals will go to possess it. The curse adds a supernatural dimension, suggesting that some treasures come with dire consequences.

Moral Corruption and Greed

Characters like Jacques Malraux exemplify how greed can corrupt morals, leading to ruthless actions and betrayals. Sam Spade's unwavering pursuit of truth contrasts sharply with the villains' manipulative schemes.

Trust and Deception

The narrative explores the thin line between trust and deception. Sam's interactions with Olga Kelly and Chan Lee highlight the challenges of discerning truth in a web of lies.

Redemption and Justice

Ultimately, the episode underscores themes of redemption and the triumph of justice. Sam Spade's relentless efforts ensure that the cursed pearls are destroyed, preventing further loss of life and restoring order.

Conclusion

"The String of Death Caper" is a masterful episode that encapsulates the charm and suspense of classic detective storytelling. Through intricate plot twists, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, Sam Spade navigates a treacherous path to uncover the truth behind the cursed pearls. This episode not only entertains but also offers a timeless reflection on the human condition, making it a standout installment in the annals of old-time radio detective series.

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Timestamps Reference

• [00:00] MIDI Health Representative Advertisement
• [01:01] Country Farm and Garden Advertisement
• [01:30] Choice Classic Radio Host Introduction
• [01:34] - [02:07] Introductory Announcements and Ads
• [02:07] Effie's Concern About Murders
• [03:04] Olga Kelly Visits Sam Spade
• [05:03] Olga's Story of Betrayal
• [10:07] Discussion of the Cursed Pearls
• [14:13] Chan Lee's Skepticism
• [21:00] Jacques Malraux Enters the Scene
• [22:27] Confrontation with Chan Lee
• [24:14] Sam Realizes the Murder Setup
• [28:07] Final Confrontation and Resolution
• [29:44] - [32:04] Post-Climax Interactions and Final Remarks

Note: Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections have been omitted to maintain focus on the episode's narrative.

Transcript

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[Country Farm and Garden Announcer]

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[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio, where we bring to you the greatest old time.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

To us on YouTube, and thank you.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

For [e-mail] the Adventures of Sam Spade Detective.

[Effie]

Sam's Bay Detective Agency Me Sweetheart Sam, do you know you're in all the papers?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Don't think I'm happy about it.

[Effie]

You were standing on the sidewalk pointing, and there's a dotted line running from U to X. Where they found the body.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You mean where they found the last body. F There were several before it.

[Effie]

I know all those poor, poor people.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Tell me, Effie, how many dots were there running from me to where they found the body?

[Effie]

Oh, see? 1, 2, 3, 6, 12.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Sam that's what I expected.

[Effie]

What does it stand for?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

For 1, 2, 3, 6,. 12. Death.

[Effie]

Sam oh, no, not really.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

But definitely. We just got in on the big finish. This is a tale of deceit and intrigue, eph. Strung through many islands and several countries. Yea, through a great many lives. So I am left with no choice but to call it the String of Death Caper. Foreign.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

B C. William Spear, Radio's Outstanding Producer, Director of Mystery and Crime Drama, brings you the greatest private detective of them all in the adventures of Sam Spade.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Effie.

[Effie]

Here I am. Sam.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Don't shout.

[Effie]

How are you, Sam?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, I'm all right, I guess.

[Effie]

Let me look at you. Sam, you need a rest. You've been staying up too many nights and.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

And going around with the wrong people. You don't have to tell me. Well, I have only this to say if the people I've been going around with lately won't be going around anymore. So don't worry about me.

[Effie]

All right, Sam, if you say so. But you look so. So terrible. Your eyes are bloodshot.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Aren't everybody's?

[Effie]

And your hands are shaking.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

True, Effie, and here's why. Take it down. You ready?

[Effie]

Well, don't make it. Don't make it too gory, Sam.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Effie, I am not going to pull any punches. You'll have to take it as it came, the way I did, Nate. Fill it in. To Lieutenant I.C. kelsey, Homicide. Detailed San Francisco police from Samuel Spade. License number 137596. Subject the string of Death Caper. Dear Kelsey, it's hard to believe that the events of the past 48 hours all began with the discovery of the oyster. But they did. And they made a marked change in the census figures of several countries. The whole thing was incredible. The most incredible part of it was that I was careless enough to let myself get mixed up in it. The entire see me saga began two days ago when my door opened and a woman walked in. Showgirl type, 7B. Tight black skirt, too tight blouse, red alligator shoes. Hair overdone in somebody's peroxide oven. You know, that kind of. She chewed gum, of course, and swung a black patent leather handbag. And her charm bracelet was so loaded I wondered if she could lift her arm.

[Effie]

Let's face it, I'm stranded.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Really? Where?

[Effie]

Where'd you think? Here. Right in this town.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, my sympathies. Won't you sit down?

[Effie]

Thanks. You're a gentleman. Hell, even so, the next time I take a job somewhere, I'm going to carry a ticket back to where I came from and a six day supply of K ration.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What? Would you care to tell me about it?

[Effie]

I was doing an at the Gay Paris when the blow fell, they had a big floor show trying to boost business. But it didn't boost it. Busted. The place was padlocked. Likewise the owner's pocketbook. We were out two weeks salary.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

We?

[Effie]

I was the aga half of the dance team of Ricardo and Olga. And then Ricardo. The creep must have been tipped off because the night we closed, at the end of his first number, he danced off the floor, out through the stage entrance and was never heard from again.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, I always say we're better off without those kind of people around anyway.

[Effie]

Not when he buffaloes out with all your savings.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I hate him already.

[Effie]

Well, I sent a wire to my booking agent for help, and his answer came back something like this. Here. They're starving in the streets. At least you got a hotel room to do it in.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Pardon?

[Effie]

What a laugh.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, those agents are a shift, Elon. They only like you when you're working.

[Effie]

Ah, you're telling me. My rent's up at the end of the week. And after that, who knows?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, now, madam, your story has touched me very deeply. Would it spoil your timing any if I asked you why you came to see me?

[Effie]

Say, you know, you got a style there. It's unique.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

It's widely copied.

[Effie]

Now, don't flash too much of that repartee and make me forget what I came here for.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Just unburden yourself, Olga. No more repartee.

[Effie]

The name's Kelly. Kelly Green. I wouldn't be seen on the street as Olga.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Pardon, My mistake.

[Effie]

Yeah. I came to ask you to find a guy named Captain Eric Nostran. He somewheres in San Francisco.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

An army man.

[Sam Spade]

Him?

[Effie]

He bought that title in a saloon in Tahiti. He's a beachcomber. Tell him Kelly's got some information she wants to sell. You can reach me at the Embassy Hotel. 6:27. See you later, son.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Just a minute, Kelly.

[Effie]

Yeah?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I hate to mention this to someone in your position, but there's a fee for my services.

[Effie]

Oh, he'll pay you the kind of information I got he wants real bad. Well, ta ta.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Clearing everything off my desk. Two shoes with feet in them. Mine. I embarked on this dangerous assignment, if Brian Donlevy will pardon the expression. You know, I am not without sources of waterfront information. And in a couple of hours, I found myself in a bistro called the Backwash. A place that hangs so precariously on the west bank of the bay that flies. Come to study it.

[Effie]

Ah.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Hello, Sammy. How are you? Hello, Eddie. What's a good word? Well, Sammy, I know what I hear but what I hear sometimes ain't the truth. Or am I too quick for you? Give me a for instance. Well, the guy you called about is sitting down at the far end of this very same bar. At least he calls himself Captain Eric Nostra. And this is what I hear from my side of the bar. But whether he is or not what he says he is is only something that can be verified by investigation. Or am I too quick for you?

[Sam Spade]

I'd have another pint of beer. Bartender.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Let me buy it.

[Sam Spade]

Sir, you can buy me drinks all night, but don't make the mistake of trying to get me drunk.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Make it too, will you, Eddie. Bye.

[Sam Spade]

That means he knows you. You're okay by the house. Well, then you're okay by Captain Nostra. There you are.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Two beers.

[Sam Spade]

Where's the rest of it?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Sam Spade.

[Chan Lee]

Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

Well, I'll tell you something about you, Sam Spade. You didn't come here to drink with me. You came to talk. Shall we go over in a booth?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

That's a good idea.

[Sam Spade]

Right? Yeah. Now I'm ready to listen.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Do you know Kelly Green?

[Sam Spade]

Kelly, the dancer?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

Why, every blasted sailor in the Orient knows Kelly. Let me see now. The last time I remember her, she was dancing on a table in Singapore for some Dutch officer.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, she's in town right now. She said she has some information you'd want to buy.

[Sam Spade]

I'll bet she is. You a friend of hers?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Since this morning.

[Sam Spade]

That's long enough for me. Now, what are you? Private detective?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I am. And that brings up one other point. She said you would pay me for finding.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, surely. What's your fee?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

25 of them.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Year yours? 50.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

No, no, no.

[Sam Spade]

Oh, take it. Now, as far as I'm concerned, you've earned it. Now then, what's her address?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Embassy Hotel, room 627.

[Sam Spade]

All right, well, I'll get in touch with her.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, see you around.

[Sam Spade]

Hey, wait a minute, Spade. How would you like to find someone for me?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Why not? Who are you looking for?

[Sam Spade]

A man named Chan Lee. Now, suppose I tell you the old story. Now, you take a look at these. Look here. Feast your eyes.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

He took a swatch of velvet cloth out of a sea jacket pocket and opened it. On it were six very large, very breathtaking rose colored pearls. Nostrin's eyes flicked over each pearl as if he knew it by name and lineage. He let me stare at them for several silent minutes before he spoke again.

[Sam Spade]

Did you ever see such timeless beauty captured in six perfect spheres?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I haven't seen many like those. Ah.

[Sam Spade]

And there aren't many. 12 to be exact. 12 in all the world.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What are pearls like that worth?

[Sam Spade]

Well, any jeweler in the city would give you $5,000 a pearl for them. But if I had all 12, I could sell the set for 75,000.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

How'd you get half the 12 pearls? Nostra?

[Sam Spade]

You ever hear of the toy toy oyster banks off the Bonio Islands?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

No, I haven't been pearling lately.

[Sam Spade]

Ah, well I have.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, is that where these came from?

[Sam Spade]

That's right, from the toy toy banks. A friend of mine in Jolo named Hong Kong Ari tipped me off that 12 perfectly matched rose colored pearls could be picked up at Kagan Sulo from a wholesale bar called Don say Maui.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, which is it?

[Sam Spade]

I shipped over on a catch with two other men. Dongs Mao asked 12,000 pesos for the lot and I took them. Damn. When we left Cagayon Sulu, I got caught in a storm and I went overboard. But I didn't fall accidentally. No. Why was it on the Eddin throne?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Overboard? Your buddies wanted the purse.

[Sam Spade]

Ah, they got six of them in my sea bag. The other six were sewn inside my belt. I still have those. Well, I traced those two guys all over the orientation, but both of them was killed. Ah, the Morrow curse, they say. So far eight people have died over these pearls. The moral curse Carny, isn't it?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yes.

[Sam Spade]

Anyway, the rumor is that the other six pearls have found their way to San Francisco and that a man named Chan Lee knows about them. I've been here 48 hours and I haven't found him.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What do you plan to do when you find him?

[Sam Spade]

Don't you worry, Spirit. I have a buyer. I'll pay cash for him.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

All right, I'll give you 50 bucks worth of looking for Chan Lee. Now where can I get in touch with him?

[Sam Spade]

Are you in the book?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah.

[Sam Spade]

Then I'll find you. Just one thing, Spade. If Kelly likes it, you must be straight. Yer take a pearl.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Now wait a minute, Nostrands. You just said each one of these Pearls was worth $5,000.

[Sam Spade]

7,500 to me. But I want to play it this way. Now if you find Chan Lee, you ask him if he knows me. And ask him if he knows about the pearls. Maybe he won't talk to you. So if he doesn't just show him the pearl and then walk out, he'll fall all over himself to find me.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, you know best. I assume no responsibility for this pearl.

[Sam Spade]

I couldn't handle the responsibility for both of us.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Harry. Ching, a friend of mine who has his ear to the Oriental ground, put down his mother tongue edition of that great Chinese detective Shylock Hole and directed me to a little food store just off Grand Street. There were a number of people in the store looking at merchandise. My man was small and fat and behind the counter.

[Chan Lee]

Good afternoon. May I assist you?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Chan Li.

[Chan Lee]

Oh, no, my name Li Yuan.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Harry Ching told me Chan Lee would be here.

[Chan Lee]

Oh, before. My name Li Yuan. My name Charlie. The personal reason for chains, you understand?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Not fully, no. But I'm not here to inquire about that. Tell me, do you know a man named Captain Eric Nostran?

[Chan Lee]

No, no, never hear name Captain. No Sano.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Look, he's big, red pointed beard, rough register Sally?

[Chan Lee]

No.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Ever hear of the rose colored pearls of Talatale?

[Chan Lee]

You joke. Why you talk pearl with Li Yuan. I be your Chinese food, not Yuri.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, I might have the wrong Chan Li, but do you know anything about pearls?

[Chan Lee]

Oh, I can tell good pearl from bad pearl. My uncle wants pearl trader.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Then take a look at this.

[Chan Lee]

Let me see.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Don't put it in your mouth.

[Chan Lee]

I just bit it to test skin. Oh yeah, sure, you joke with me.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Joke about what? I know where five more are just like that. Worth $5,000 a piece.

[Chan Lee]

Somebody pull your leg. This poor jump. Japanese culture pearl artificially color worth maybe $5.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Really?

[Chan Lee]

Yeah. Next time don't play joke on Shan Li Liyuen. Oh, yes, that me ball.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

A skeptic. I. I took the pearl to a jeweler I know. And he told me Shan Lee lied in his scraggly beard. It was the finest specimen of rose pearl he'd ever seen. Well, I went back to my office to wait for Nostrin's call. When and if it came, I say I went back to my office, but not directly in. Because just as I was putting the key in my lock, something familiar pushed in between my shoulder blades. Mr. Spade, I know all the tricks. So don't try any. Just open the door and go in. You bet. Now sit down at your desk and put your hands on top of it. You were looking at the tea in Shan Li's store, weren't you? I was. And I want the pearl. You have me. You. All right, if you're gonna make a scene, suppose you give me something. I don't have to give you anything. That pearl belongs to me. It was stolen from me along with all the others. By Eric Nostrand. Right. Bought those pearls from Tung Tse Mao in Cagayansulo. Nostrand was crew on my catch. And on the way back to Shanghai, he threw me overboard so he could have the pearls himself. Well, didn't you drown Mr. Ivan T. Sanderson? Oh, some Jap fisherman picked me up. This is the first of the 12 rose colored pearls I've gotten back. And I mean to get the other 11, even if it takes a few dead bodies to accomplish it. Well, I admire your spirit, sir, but I'm afraid you've picked out a tough career. Where's Nostrand? I don't know. You must know. You're working for him. He said he'd contact me. Honesty. How did you get tied up with him? A girl named Kelly Green hired me to find him. Call her, all right? And ask her where Nostrand is. All right, I will. Don't point. It's not polite. Yes, well.

[Sam Spade]

Embassy Hotel.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, 627, please.

[Sam Spade]

Whom are you calling please?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Ms. Kelly Green.

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[Country Farm and Garden Announcer]

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[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Hello, Kelly?

[Effie]

Yeah.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Sam Spade.

[Effie]

Yeah.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Did Captain Nostran get in touch with you?

[Effie]

No. Did you find him, Sam?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I did.

[Effie]

Well, he hasn't come up here yet. Not yet, Sam. Thanks for calling. Goodbye.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

She hasn't seen him yet. Thank you, Mr. Spade. I'll be checking with you from time to time. He pocketed his gun and stalked out with a $5,000 pearl in his hand. I knew he had heard the operator say Embassy Hotel and I knew he heard Kelly Green's room number. So I let him get a small head start. He went directly to the Embassy Hotel. I followed him into the lobby. He got the one elevator and I had awake until it went up and came down before I got it. When I arrived at the sixth floor, the door of 627 was slightly open and there was a sharp odor in the air. Ivan T. Sanderson wasn't there, neither was Kelly Green. But dragging himself across the floor, trying to reach the door was Captain Eric Nostra. He had two bullet holes in his back. I tried to help him, but beyond help, he collapsed dead. As his body relaxed, his mouth slowly opened and five rose colored pearls rolled out.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

You are listening to the weekly adventure of radio's most famous detective, Sam Spade. Three chimes mean good times on NBC. There's music and mystery with the chimes every Saturday. Tomorrow evening for mystery, Herbert Marshall stars as the man Called X in all the strange and far off corners of the world. Wherever there is intrigue, danger and romance, there you will find the man called X. For music, there's your Hit parade with the top tunes in the land, as selected by you and brought to you by Snooki Lanson, Eileen Wilson and the Hit Paraders. Last week, Tennessee Waltz and My Heart Cries for you were the top tunes across the country. Will they topple? Well, you'll have the answer tomorrow on your Hit Parade. And now back to the String of Death caper. Tonight's adventure with Sam's Spade.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

After I found Nostrin's body, I called you, Lieutenant Kelsey, and told you as little as I could. After that, I went out to dinner and then home to bed. This hiatus was necessary in order to let the pot of vicious intrigue bubble a little. Well, the next morning, at considerable expense, we added a new character to our play which was already an excellent extravaganza.

[Jacques Malraux]

Good morning.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, good Morning.

[Jacques Malraux]

I am not sure, monsieur, whether I am going to kill you or let you live.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Very effective entrance, sir. And who are you?

[Jacques Malraux]

Jacques Malraux.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Aha. Of the Malraux curse?

[Jacques Malraux]

The same, monsieur. It was reported in the papers that you found the body of Captain Eric Nostrand in the apartment of a girl named Kelly Green.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, I'm afraid I just happened to be there.

[Jacques Malraux]

Did you happen to know if anyone found a number of pearls on Nostrand's body?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, as far as I know, they didn't. You mean the Tawatawi pearls, don't you? Aha. You know about them A little, yeah. They belong to a man named Tung Se Mao, who sold them to a man named Ivan Sanderson, who had them stolen from him by Captain Nostran, who had half of his stolen from him. That's the installment I just read.

[Jacques Malraux]

Anyway, perhaps it is mostly right, except for one important point. Sung Sae Ma was holding them for me. They were not bought. They were taken from him at the point of a gun.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Getting involved. Getting involved?

[Jacques Malraux]

I risked my life in the short infested waters of Towie Towie diving for those pearls. No man but me will possess them. Now, where to find Kelly Green and.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Ivan Sanderson, I don't know. The police don't know, so I can't tell you. Aha.

[Jacques Malraux]

All right, Monsieur Sved. You have an honest face. I believe you. But if it turns out later that you have deceived me, you will find to your regret that Jacques Maro is not an easy man to do business with.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Following his exit, I allowed a pause for dramatic effect and then dissolved into the next scene. On the front door of Chan Lee's grocery store, there was a sign closed for the day. So I went around the boat, blocked through an alley, and came up on his living quarters from the back way. I stood at the back door and knew somebody was home listening to some Oriental arty Shaw. I tried the doorknob. It turned, and I carefully opened the door and stepped in.

[Chan Lee]

What you do my house?

[Sam Spade]

Well, what?

[Chan Lee]

What? Like you come in private house?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Turn that thing off and I'll tell you.

[Chan Lee]

All right, get out. Get out before I call police.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Now, I didn't come here to quibble with you. I came to speak right from the shoulder. What you talk about, Kawatawi Pearl?

[Chan Lee]

I don't know.

[Effie]

Pearl.

[Chan Lee]

Get out.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You know Nostrin was killed yesterday, don't you?

[Chan Lee]

I tell you before, I know no man named Noster.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

All right, where's Sanderson?

[Chan Lee]

What man?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

The Tall man with a clip, mustache. Who was in your store yesterday when I was there?

[Chan Lee]

Oh, plenty people come my store. I not know them all by name. Come by anybody. Plenty mustache.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

All right, all right. Play it your way. But if you ever do meet up with Sanderson, just tell him that I have the other five pearls. The ones Nostran was killed for. Just as I closed the door behind me, I saw a pair of red alligator shoes with a pair of nylons draped over them, pushed under a chair. I hesitated a minute, thought better, and hurried away. I went back to my office, pulled out a good book, and read for three hours. It paid off.

[Effie]

I had to come to you. I'm in an awful jam.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I should say you are. And it won't get you any easier when I call the police.

[Effie]

I knew Eric was found in my apartment, but I didn't have anything to do with it.

[Sam Spade]

Nuts.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I called you from here not 10 minutes before Nostrom was found dead.

[Effie]

All right, all right. He was there. But he wanted me to say he wasn't.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You want me to tell you something else about yourself? I checked with the Embassy Hotel. Your bill was paid for a month in advance. You weren't stranded. It was a murder setup from beginning to end. But I can't understand your being dumb enough to use your real name.

[Effie]

He wasn't supposed to have been killed there. It was supposed to happen someplace else.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

That's what I thought.

[Effie]

Don't do it, Sam. I came here to tell you the truth. I need your help.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I can't help you now, Kelly.

[Effie]

He made me do it. He made me come to San Francisco, wait for Nostrin, and then find him.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Who made you? Sanderson?

[Effie]

No. Chan. Chan Lee. He killed Nostrin. He shot him. But we heard somebody at the door and went out the fire escape before we could search Nostrin.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What do you mean? He made you do it.

[Effie]

Look at this. That arm isn't pretty, is it? There must be a thousand holes in it.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

When did you start this?

[Effie]

In Singapore. Chan used to be there, and he supplied me. I had to follow him here because I didn't have enough money to buy it.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I see. Well, Kelly, I'm sorry. Maybe the state will take that into consideration.

[Effie]

I want to go into partnership with you.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Partnership? Doing what?

[Effie]

Selling pearls. You have five of them. I have six of them. Here.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Where'd you get these?

[Effie]

From Chan. I heard you there after you left. He got excited and had to take something to quiet himself down. I grabbed these and beat it while he was still under what do you say, Sam? Let's Salomon go someplace.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, it might be arranged. Where's Sanderson?

[Effie]

Ivan Sanderson?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah.

[Effie]

He lives on a boat. It's a Yawl, a trader. Anchored at Pier 32. I. Don't worry about him, Sam. You can take care of him.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I probably can. Did you ever hear of a guy named Jacques Malraux?

[Effie]

Jacques Malrau?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah.

[Effie]

Is he in San Francisco?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

He was in here yesterday looking for you and Sanderson.

[Effie]

Sam, the deal's off. I don't want to have anything to do with it. Here. Keep the pearls.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I picked up the six pearls and put them in my office safe for the other five. I take them from Nostrin. Then I went down to the waterfront looking for Sanders. Chun Li was still under drugs. It'd be no problem for the police to pick up. Nor would Kelly Green, once her drug supply began to give up. The traitor was a trim, white yawl tied up at Pier 32 with a Jacob ladder running down to its deck. I climbed down and, looking around, found Sanderson in a cabin, sitting behind a table. It wasn't a commonplace thing, you see. He'd just been shot. You can't do anything for me, Sam. There's nothing to do. How did it happen to Cyrus? The Malraux curse.

[Jacques Malraux]

Jacques Malraux?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yes. He made a vow that he was going to kill anyone who touched the pearls. Anyone. Did he get your pearl? Yes. Who as the rest? I do. Eleven of them. When Maro finds out, I wonder how you're going to feel dying 11 times. That's when I turned the whole thing over to you, Kelsey. I went back to my office, put in a call to your office. And gave you a complete rundown on the case from beginning to end. Who did what and how you might go about finding them. You said you'd be right over to pick up the pearls. But you got there a little late. So I had no sooner put down the phone when.

[Chan Lee]

All right. You have a pearl. Give them to Chum or he will not hesitate to shoot you the way you did.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Nostrum.

[Chan Lee]

I don't have time for talk. Hurry. Get pearl.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Okay. They're in my safe here. I don't think I'm going to give you any arguments or pull anything clever.

[Chan Lee]

It will be too bad if you did.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I don't really know who these pearls do belong to. And I don't care much anymore. You can have the worries instead of me.

[Chan Lee]

I will be glad to worry about such a pleasure.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah. Here they are.

[Chan Lee]

Stay where you Are Throw them to me.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

All right. Catch.

[Chan Lee]

Thank you. Now I will go. I advise you against lazy outcry.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I'm glad they got rid of you. Go and have a long and happy life.

[Chan Lee]

Oh. Oh, I have been handpicked by the gods.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

He was, but for a different reason. He put the pearls in his pocket. With a little smile of triumph at how easy it had been, he turned and quickly walked out of the office. He even closed the door politely. But outside, he didn't get far. I ran for the hole, sliding my.38 out of its holster. Chun Li lay still on the floor and his coat pocket had been turned inside out. Steps were pounding down the stairwell and I followed. When I hit the sidewalk, he was half a block away and running. I fired at him and he stopped and fired back. My second one caught him in the chest and he fell twisting across the sidewalk. I walked right up to him, but it was all over. Jacques Malraux was dead. And one by one, 12 of the most beautiful rose colored pearls in the world were dropping out of his hand, rolling down the gutter and plopping into the sewer where they belong. Period. End of string.

[Effie]

Damn. Did they all go down the sewer?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Every pearl. Effie, who knows where they might be now?

[Effie]

Maybe at the filtering plant.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Maybe out to sea.

[Effie]

Sam, could I get off early tonight?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Effie, put that thought out of your mind. They're not worth it.

[Effie]

Oh, but Sam, all that.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, I said forget it. Now go type that up. Go on. Scoot.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Three chimes mean good times on NBC. There's music and fun in the air tomorrow evening style to suit your Saturday night of merriment. Dennis Day brings you songs and comedy in his charming, boyish manner. And then Judy Canova gets together with her frolicsome friends for mountain melody and mayhem. Followed by Grand Ole Opry with Singing MC Red Foley and his gang. It's a Saturday night of fun designed for you.

[Effie]

Oh, Sam, those pearls. I give anything just to wear them one night.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Anything.

[Effie]

Well, I suppose it isn't worth it, but someday, somehow, I want to wear expensive jewelry.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Effie, I'd rather see you with a sparkling light in your eye. Any day looks much better on you.

[Effie]

And of course, it's cheaper.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Effie, is that a slur on my character?

[Effie]

Well, I don't get paid too much too often.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

All right, let's settle this thing right here. You say you want some pearls?

[Effie]

Oh, I'd love pearl.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Here you are. Six oysters, three boys and three girls. You can grow your own at home.

[Effie]

Are those really oysters?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

They are indeed. I picked them up at Fisherman's Wharf just this afternoon.

[Effie]

What do I do?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, I'll make it easier for you. I also bought a bottle of cocktail sauce. So which will it be, Pearls or oysters? On the half shell.

[Effie]

Oh, Sam, you're so. So different. Let's eat them.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Not until you say good night. Good night, sweetheart.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

The adventures of Sam Spade are produced, edited and directed by William Spears. Sam Spade was played by Stephen Dunn. Lorene Tuttle as Effie. Script for tonight's adventure by John Michael Hayes. Musical scoring by Lud Gluskin conducted by Robert Armbruster. Join us again next week, same time, for another adventure with Sam Spade. Now, the Magnificent Montague. Then it's Duffy's Tavern on NBC.

[Anti-Vaping Advocate]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, I tried this once. It won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.